When Love Is a Lie (Whitney and Damian)

Whitney opened Noel's message, only to find that it was just a link with no additional text. Curious, she clicked on it and landed on an architectural design website showcasing award-winning buildings from the past two years along with industry trends.

Their dinner conversation a few nights ago had been pleasant. When Whitney casually mentioned wanting to return to her original field in architecture, Noel engaged in the discussion but bluntly pointed out how outdated her knowledge was.

Despite his straightforwardness, Whitney was not embarrassed and acknowledged that he was right. After all, she had spent the past few years focusing on Damian instead of keeping up with her profession. Hence, she had decided that night that she would not waste any more time. However, William's news had changed things. With all Damian had done to help with Margaret's situation, resigning from Howard Group seemed inappropriate.

"Thanks, Noel. I'll study it carefully," she texted back. After sending the message, she did not receive any response.

Later, Whitney drove to the Spencer residence and excitedly shared the good news with Westley. Westley simply nodded and said, "That's good news."

His expression was rather calm, not showing much excitement. Then, he wrote a check and handed it to Whitney, adding, "Margaret will be able to attend your wedding once she wakes up."

The mention of the wedding tugged at Whitney's heart, but her joy about Margaret's recovery overshadowed it. "Dad, what's the plan when Mom wakes up?"

Things were not like they were 20 years ago. Westley was now married to Rebecca, and they had Stella and Matthew. If Margaret moved back in, she would undoubtedly feel out of place.

Westley considered for a moment before replying, "Let's have Margaret stay here first. She'll need care while recovering, and we can figure out the next steps later."

It made sense to Whitney as she would not be able to care for Margaret while working. "Okay, we'll do it your way."

Outside the study, Rebecca's expression darkened. She was jealous, thinking Margaret was lucky. After 20 years in a coma, she would wake up to find her daughter grown and marrying into the prestigious Howard family.

Rebecca feared that once Margaret moved in, she would no longer have a place in the family and would be forced to move out. She glanced at the closed study door and quietly headed downstairs to the kitchen.

...

Two days later, Whitney woke up early for her appointment with William. After getting ready, she called Damian, who had promised to pick her up. It was nearly 8.30 am, but he had not yet arrived.

The phone rang until it went to voicemail. Whitney figured he might have had an emergency and decided to drive herself.

As she opened her door, Noel emerged from his apartment in a dark suit. "You seem to be in a good mood today," he remarked. It was rare for him to initiate a conversation.

Whitney smiled. "Yes, we're starting my mom's treatment with a new medication today."

Noel nodded. "That's definitely good news."

They walked to the parking garage together. "I should get going. I don't want to be late," Whitney said cheerfully, jingling her keys as she headed to her car.

With a quick wave, she hurried to her car. Noel watched her drive away before walking to his own vehicle.noveldrama

...

At the hospital, Whitney rushed to Margaret's ward, but William was not there. She tried to stay calm, assuming he was stuck in traffic.

She gazed at Margaret's peaceful face and whispered, "Mom, you'll be waking up soon. Let me get some water to freshen you up."

As Whitney stepped out, she saw Damian and Rachel leaving the critical care room next door. Whitney froze, realizing this was why Damian had not picked up his phone he was at the hospital with Rachel. She smiled wryly as she pushed her feelings aside. She was used to this anyway.

"Whitney, I'm sorry I couldn't pick you up. Rachel's friend's mother had an accident, and it was urgent. I didn't have time to let you know," Damian explained.

"Rachel's friend's mother," Whitney thought bitterly about how distant that connection was, yet it took priority.

"It's fine. Your matters are more important," Whitney replied coldly. She checked the time and noted that William was late. Growing impatient, she took out her phone to call him. Suddenly, Damian stopped her. "Are you calling Professor Morris?"

Whitney just nodded and said nothing.

"Professor Morris has already left," Damian informed her.

Whitney was shocked. "Left? But wasn't he supposed to wait for me before starting my mom's treatment?"