Chapter 1

At the Northington Field residence, Gemma Field stepped out of the bathroom after a shower.

At the same time, a noise came from the doorway, and an unfamiliar man entered.

He was dressed in a well-tailored black suit with a tall and slender figure. His facial features were well-defined, and his gaze was deep and unreadable, making it difficult to discern his emotions.

Gemma froze and instinctively shrank back. Then, she timidly asked, "Who are you?"

Hearing her voice, the man looked over to see Gemma, who'd just finished her shower. Her silk nightgown barely reached her knees and revealed her fair legs. Her long dark hair was damp and cascaded over her shoulders, while tiny droplets clung to her cheeks. She was breathtakingly beautiful.

Wesley Lowell's gaze lingered briefly on her face before he looked away. "I'm sorry. I entered the wrong room."

With that, he turned to leave.

Just then, a clear female voice came from the doorway. "Ah… Wesley, so you're here."

Gemma stiffened. Her eyes flickered slightly, but she soon regained her composure. She looked at the woman who'd just entered and greeted her softly.

Her expression was obedient and gentle as she called out, "Hello, Amy."

The woman who'd just entered was Amelia Hoffman, her step aunt. She was 28 years old and a doctor at Northington Hospital.

Amelia looked at Gemma and frowned but still spoke warmly, "Gemma, why are you here instead of being in your room?"

"There was no water in my bathroom," Gemma explained why she was in the guest room.

Amelia didn't press further and reminded her, "Alright. Since you're done, go back to your room, change, and come downstairs. Sadie and Thomas are waiting for you."

"Got it." Gemma turned to leave.

Behind her, she could hear Amelia speaking, followed by Wesley's brief responses.

"So sorry, Wesley. I didn't expect anyone to be in the guest room."

"It's fine."

"The juice stain on your clothes might not come off that easily. Let me get you one of Thomas' shirts."

"No need."

"Let me clean it for you then."

The door closed and shut out the conversation in the guest room as Gemma returned to her room. After she had started changing into her clothes, a knock sounded at the door, followed by a housekeeper's voice.

"Are you in there, Ms. Field?"

"Yeah," Gemma responded.

"Mr. Field is back and wants you downstairs."

"Got it. I'll be down after changing." Gemma quickly finished changing and went downstairs.

The hall was filled with guests. Tonight was Florian Field's fifth birthday party—the Field family's youngest son and Gemma's half-brother, who was born to the same father but a different mother. Born with a silver spoon, he was showered with love.

Gemma's father, Thomas Field, had Florian late in life and excessively doted on him like a treasure.

As for Gemma's stepmother, Sadie Hoffman, she'd risen in status due to her son. Now, she was a prominent figure in Northington's elite society.

As the thought crossed Gemma's mind, a cold glint flashed in her eyes. It was ironic how things had changed.

Sweeping her gaze across the crowd, she spotted Amelia standing with Wesley.

Amelia was dressed in an off-shoulder champagne-colored gown with exquisite makeup applied to her face. When she spoke to Wesley, her cheeks flushed slightly, showing a hint of shyness.

The latter would occasionally lower his head to reply, and the two looked like a perfect match.

Gemma watched them for some time before withdrawing her gaze. Then, she took out her phone and texted her best friend, Tracy McGregor.

"Tracy, look into Wesley Lowell and his relationship with Amelia."

Chapter 2

"Mr. and Mrs. Field are over there, Ms. Field. Let's go."

Under the housekeeper's reminder, Gemma withdrew her gaze and once again assumed her gentle and obedient demeanor. "Sure. let's go."

"Ms. Field has arrived, Mr. Field."

At these words, the middle-aged man turned his gaze toward Gemma, and she greeted him politely. "Hi, Dad. Hi, Sadie."

Thomas responded with a cold hum, while the elegant and composed Sadie standing beside him took Gemma's hand warmly. "You're back. How was the journey? Are you tired?"

"I'm not tired. Thank you for your concern."

Sadie enthusiastically continued, "That's great. Stay longer and take care of yourself. Just let me know if you need anything."

"Alright."

Then, Thomas chimed in with an indifferent tone, "Go to the hospital and begin your treatment starting tomorrow. Once you've recovered, go back to Vesterland. Don't stay here and cause trouble."

Gemma lowered her head in silence as her hands clenched at her sides. It took her several seconds before she finally replied, "Understood. I'll do that."

Only then did Thomas nod in satisfaction. "It seems your temper has changed since going to Vesterland. Sending you there was the right choice. In that case, speed up your treatments and go back as soon as you can."

Sadie turned to him disapprovingly. "She just got back, and this is the first thing you say?"

Then, she squeezed Gemma's hand affectionately. "Don't listen to your father, Gemma. You're back after so long; stay as long as you want."

Gemma maintained a gentle smile and said nothing.

"Oh right. Amy's there. Let's go." Sadie led her to Amelia and said, "Amy, look. Gemma's here."

They'd met upstairs, so Gemma simply nodded. "All done?"

"Yeah."

Wesley stood beside Amelia. Both Thomas and Sadie treated him with great respect.

"Wesley, you've been here for a while, haven't you?" Thomas asked.

"Just arrived."

"Make yourself at home here. Don't worry about anything."

Amelia chimed in, "Exactly. Thomas is right. Make yourself at home."

Gemma stood quietly beside them and listened as they talked. She felt invisible and unnoticed, but it didn't matter; she'd long grown accustomed to being ignored.

The Lowells were different from the Fields. The Lowell family was a prominent and powerful household in Northington.

The head of the family, Phillip Lowell, came from a distinguished military background. He had two sons and a daughter.

Lowell Group was a dominant force in Northington's business world. The chairman, Henry Lowell, was Phillip's eldest son and Wesley's father.

Now, Wesley's elder brother, Zachary Lowell, was the CEO of Lowell Group. But even as the second son, Wesley's position was not to be underestimated.

Though Field Group had maintained steady growth over the years, it was still nowhere on par with Lowell Group. That was why Thomas was pleased to see Amelia forming close ties with Wesley.

At this thought, a fleeting coldness flashed in Gemma's eyes. It seemed that to Thomas, his biological daughter wasn't as important as Amelia.

"Oh, Wesley, I forgot to introduce you. This is Gemma, Thomas' daughter and the eldest daughter of the Fields."

Amelia's voice snapped Gemma out of her thoughts. The latter lifted her head and met Wesley's eyes, which had an air of reserved nobility.

After a brief silence, Gemma maintained her gentle smile and softly said, "Nice to meet you, Mr. Lowell."

Chapter 3

Wesley lowered his gaze to give Gemma a fleeting glance. Then, he coldly looked away and replied with a hum.

Gemma said nothing more, while Amelia embarrassedly explained, "Wesley is always like this, Gemma. He doesn't talk much. Don't take it to heart."

Gemma smiled slightly. "I won't. Don't worry, Amy."

"Alright, that's all then. You're not in good health, so go upstairs and get some rest," Thomas ordered.

"Got it. I'll get going."

"Rest well," Sadie said with a warm and considerate smile.

Gemma turned and walked upstairs as the guests in the hall continued their conversations. None paid attention to her departure.

Halfway up, she turned back to glance at Wesley just as he lifted his gaze. Their eyes met, and she curved her lips slightly before continuing upstairs.

Wesley stood in place and watched her leave. As she disappeared at the top of the stairs, he wondered if that fleeting odd smile had been nothing more than just his imagination.

"Wesley," Amelia softly called out his name upon noticing his distraction.

"Yeah?" Wesley returned to his senses.

"What's wrong?"

"Nothing."

"Let's go over there and sit for a bit." Amelia pointed toward the lounge.

"Sure."

…

Upstairs, Gemma received a text from Tracy detailing the information she'd asked for about Wesley.

"Wesley Lowell, son of Henry Lowell, chairman of Lowell Group. A neurosurgeon at Northington Top Healthcare and a genius among his peers. He is the most favored grandson of Phillip Lowell.

"Unlike typical wealthy playboys, Wesley Lowell is reserved, aloof, and low-profiled."

Gemma read the brief introduction, and her gaze grew thoughtful. After a long pause, she replied, "Tracy, do you think Amelia is better than me?"

Tracy replied almost instantly, saying, "She can't even compare."

…

The next morning, Gemma descended the stairs and heard the sound of a video playing in the dining room. Thomas, Sadie, Amelia, and Florian, the birthday boy, were all gathered and talking.

Several words caught her attention—Wesley, prestigious family, and more opportunities to interact.

Amelia had a faint blush on her face, and her eyes were bright with a cheerful smile.

Without saying anything, Gemma simply stood there and watched the scene unfold. Despite being the eldest daughter of the Fields, she felt more like an outsider in the Field residence.

Florian was the first to notice her. The five-year-old boy who knew nothing of the world, softly called out to her, "Gemma."

Everyone turned to look at her. Sadie smiled kindly and said, "Gemma, come have breakfast."

Gemma walked over and took her seat beside Florian.

Thomas frowned. "Why are you this late? Didn't I have Sadie ask a housekeeper to inform you of the meal times?"

Gemma looked up and caught the fleeting panic in Sadie's expression before settling on Thomas. Her voice was light and calm as she said, "I'm sorry, Dad. I overslept."

At her response, Sadie quickly let out a breath of relief.

Thomas remained displeased but didn't press further. "Now that you're back, you should learn proper etiquette. How could you have the whole family wait for you?"

"Understood."

"Are you going to the hospital after breakfast?" Thomas asked.

"Yes."

Thomas said no more and instructed her to undergo a thorough check-up.

Gemma lowered her head as she ate. Throughout breakfast, Florian kept sneaking cautious glances at her, but she ignored him entirely.

…

Gemma got ready to head to the hospital.

After getting into the car, Amelia asked, "Why aren't you going to Northington Hospital?"

With a smile on her face, Gemma softly countered, "Would you prefer I go there?"

Chapter 4

Amelia gazed at Gemma, and her expression shifted subtly.

Gemma chuckled lightly. "It's nothing, really. I just don't want to cause you trouble. Northington Top Healthcare is just as good."

Amelia didn't press further. "Alright. Call me if you need anything." With that, she stepped on the gas and drove away.

Standing in place, Gemma watched the car disappear from sight. The smile in her eyes faded and was replaced by an icy indifference.

…

A housekeeper at the Field residence, Sara Hugh, accompanied Gemma to the hospital. She maintained a distant attitude though respectful. Gemma knew why, but she didn't care.

On the way, she grabbed her phone and texted Tracy, saying, "Tracy, check if Wesley is on shift today. Which department is he in?"

The reply from Tracy came quickly. "He has outpatient consultations today."

Upon arriving at the hospital, Gemma underwent a series of routine examinations. But when it came to blood tests, Sara stepped away to take a call, thus leaving Gemma alone.

Her phone rang. Noticing the number on the screen, she picked up and spoke in a soft gentle voice, "Hello."

The caller on the other line said something, to which she responded by saying, "Yeah. Everything's fine."

The caller continued, and Gemma replied, "I'm at the hospital right now. I'll let you know once the results are out."

As she spoke, the nurse finished drawing her blood and reminded her to press the cotton against the puncture site.

Gemma switched hands to hold her phone and did as instructed. Then, she continued talking on the phone, "Don't worry about me."

The caller gave her some final reminders, and she said, "Alright."

Still on the call, she stood up. Her bag slipped from her lap and spilled its contents onto the floor. She let go of the cotton and crouched down to retrieve her belongings.

At the same time, a fair bony hand picked up her faded yellow wallet. Their fingers brushed against each other for a brief moment.

Gemma froze briefly before swiftly pulling her hand away. Then, she ended the call. "I have something to take care of. I'll call you later."

By the time she hung up, Wesley was already standing and holding her wallet.

"Thank you," she said softly.

Wesley glanced at her before saying, "Your arm is bleeding."

Gemma looked down and realized she'd dropped the cotton. Now, blood was trickling down.

"It's nothing," she murmured and frowned. She'd been so caught up in talking on the phone that she forgot.

Wesley remained where he was for a few seconds before turning to the medical intern behind him. "Take care of it."

"Got it, Dr. Lowell."

Wesley turned to leave without another word.

The intern, a young lady, gently took Gemma's hand. "Come on. Let's sit over there. I'll help you dress the wound."

Gemma's gaze deepened as she watched Wesley leave. Upon returning to her senses, she smiled politely and said, "Thank you. I appreciate it."

The intern glanced at her curiously. "Are you acquainted with Dr. Lowell?"

"No."

"Oh. That's strange. He usually never bothers with things like this."

…

Back at the Field residence, only Sadie and Florian were playing in the yard. Gemma didn't stop to greet them and went straight upstairs to bed. She was too exhausted from the day's events.

When it was near dinnertime, she woke up and headed downstairs. Just as reached the foot of the stairs, she overheard Sadie and Amelia talking.

"How are things going between you and Mr. Lowell?" It was Sadie's voice.

"Pretty good. He doesn't seem to reject me."

"That's wonderful. Amy, the Lowell family isn't just any wealthy family. Do you know what marrying Wesley would mean?"

"I do."

"You're both doctors, and you've known each other for years. There's plenty to talk about, so try to spend more time with him. The more you meet, the easier it'll be to develop feelings."

"We planned a camping trip at Leocoln Hill this weekend."

"Oh? Camping is a great opportunity. Use this chance to confess your feelings. If it works out, you'll be his rightful girlfriend."

Chapter 5

The chatter from the living room continued, and Gemma arched her lips slightly.

Camping, huh?

…

When Thomas returned home that evening, he asked about her hospital visit over dinner.

Gemma softly answered, "The doctor said it's nothing serious. I just need to stay in a good mood and go out more often. It helps."

"Go out more?"

"Yeah."

Thomas didn't press further and reminded her to visit the hospital regularly, while Gemma replied, "Alright."

Sadie spoke up, "Gemma hasn't been in good health, and it's probably because she spends too much time alone. Shall I take her out on vacations and stuff?"

Thomas frowned. "You have Florian to take care of. Where would you find the time?"

Amelia chimed in, "I'll do it if Sadie's busy. Plus, I've planned a camping trip with Wesley and a few friends this weekend. You could come with us, Gemma."

Before Gemma could respond, Thomas had decided for her. "That sounds good. You should go."

"Alright, Dad."

…

On the weekend, Gemma and Amelia arrived at the seaside campsite. Most of the group had arrived by the time they got there.

Seeing the unfamiliar Gemma by Amelia's side, they asked, "Amy, who's this?"

Amelia introduced her with a smile. "This is Thomas' daughter, Gemma Field."

"Oh." With that introduction, all eyes turned to Gemma. Some carried curiosity and admiration, while others scrutinized her.

Gemma wore a white dress with her long hair cascading down her back. Her light makeup accentuated her elegant demeanor.

Amelia turned to her. "Go ahead and mingle." Then, she walked toward Wesley.

Wesley sat at a table toward the back and occasionally sipped on coffee. There was a stark contrast between his elegant composed demeanor and the lively conversation around him.

Gemma watched as Amelia sat beside him, and they started talking. She had no idea what they said, but Amelia lowered her head slightly and smiled.

"Wes and Amy look good together, don't they?" A voice interrupted Gemma's thoughts. She withdrew her gaze and looked up.

The young man who'd spoken to her had bright eyes and a warm demeanor. His well-defined features carried a boyish charm.

Instead of answering his question, she simply looked at him with a soft and innocent gaze.

Jacob Gray was dazed by her stare. Then, he realized he hadn't introduced himself. "Hello, I'm Jacob Gray."

"Gemma Field."

"I know. Amy just told us." Jacob blinked playfully.

Gemma lowered her gaze and was unsure of what to say. Jacob had initiated the conversation, but she'd never been great at keeping it going.

Sensing her hesitation, he carefully reassured her. "Everyone here is pretty easy going. You don't have to hold yourself back. This is your first time here; perhaps you'll feel comfortable the more you come."

"Mm," she responded softly.

"Oh! I heard from Amy that you just came back from abroad?"

"Yeah."

"Which country?"

"Vesterland."

"That's really far. How did you end up there all by yourself?"

A faint smile curved on Gemma's lips as she replied, "Don't you know? I was kicked out of the Field family back then."

Jacob's eyes widened in disbelief, while she continued smiling and met his shocked gaze briefly before looking away.

Her eyes landed on Wesley, who was walking toward the other side of the beach and talking on the phone.

An idea popped in her mind, and she got up. "I'd like to take a walk alone, Mr. Gray. Please excuse me."

"Sure."

After parting ways with Jacob, Gemma walked in the direction Wesley had gone. She spotted him by the shore from a distance with one hand in his pocket and his phone pressed to his ear.

Instead of approaching, she settled in a quiet spot and put on her earphones. The calming sea breeze brushed refreshingly across her skin.

The moment was so peaceful and immersive that she lost herself in it until she sensed a gaze on her.

Turning around, she found Wesley standing behind her with one hand still in his pocket. His expression was as calm as ever as he said, "Amelia is looking for you."

"Oh." She took some time to respond. As she stood up to leave, her foot slipped, and her body tilted backward…

Wesley swiftly caught her arm and wrapped a hand around her waist, pulling her into his embrace.