Chapter 9 My Wife

Harrison and Serena walked side-by-side into Shiwa Law Firm. Gail Levine, the lawyer handling Vincent's will, was already waiting at the reception desk. He was a man in his middle years. His sharp eyes exuded both professionalism and keen insight. Serena greeted him politely, "Hello, Mr. Levine." Gail nodded in acknowledgment before his gaze shifted to the man beside her. A flicker of surprise crossed his eyes. "Harrison?" Harrison's lips curled slightly, his tone carrying an unusual hint of respect. "Mr. Levine." Gail's eyes darted between them before finally settling on Harrison. "What brings you here today?" "I'm here with my wife to handle some inheritance matters," Harrison said matter-of-factly, showing no sign of hesitation. Gail's surprise deepened. "Your wife?" Harrison gave a slight nod, then effortlessly wrapped an arm around Serena's slender waist, pulling her in closer. He introduced her succinctly, "This is my wife, Serena Linden." Gail turned to Serena as if seeking confirmation. "So... he's the one you married?" She smiled slightly and nodded. "When did this happen?" Gail asked next. "Just now," Harrison replied. Hearing that, Gail chuckled. "Alright. Let's talk inside." With that, Harrison kept his arm around Serena as they followed Gail into a quiet conference room. Once Gail sat across from them, his expression shifted into a professional seriousness. "First, I need to see your marriage certificate." At his request, they presented their marriage certificate. As Gail examined it, he explained, "This is just standard procedure—nothing more." Serena nodded. "I understand." Looking over their marriage certificate, Gail couldn't help but remark, "I never thought you'd actually settle down, Harrison. You've got good taste." Harrison's lips curled into a faint, effortless smile. "The timing was right." Serena played along, offering a polite smile. When everything checked out, Gail retrieved Vincent's will. "Ms. Linden, you have now met the conditions for inheritance. As per Mr. Linden Senior's wishes, you'll officially inherit an 18% stake in Linden Group. Regal Majesty Manor in the western suburbs will also be transferred to your name." After reading the will aloud, he slid the documents across the table to Serena. "Review them and sign here. Once you do, the will takes immediate effect." She stared at the papers, a storm of emotions churning inside her. After a long silence, she picked up the pen and signed her name as required. Once done, Gail continued, "There's another part of the will that can only be disclosed when you turn 25, which is in six months. But in the past few days, Charles and Helena have been asking about it. They seem impatient. You should be careful and stay alert." His gaze flickered toward Harrison as he spoke, carrying a deeper meaning. "Of course, you have nothing to fear with Harrison backing you. He'll make sure you're safe." Serena turned her head slightly, looking at Harrison. His expression remained unchanged—calm, composed, and unreadable as always. A man like him never showed his emotions. She couldn't help but wonder if he would really protect her. But after contemplating, she concluded that he would as they were partners in this. With the inheritance matter settled, Harrison and Serena left Shiwa Law Firm. The sunlight outside cast long shadows, but it did little to lift the heaviness in Serena's heart. She had secured her shares in Linden Group but felt no joy—only a stifling sense of unease. Harrison studied her out of the corner of his eye. When he remembered everything she had been through, his gaze softened. "Is there anything else?" he asked suddenly. Serena snapped out of her thoughts. "What?" Seeing that she hadn't caught his question, he didn't show the slightest impatience. Instead, he repeated himself, his tone even, "Do you need my help with anything else?" Serena pressed her lips together, thinking about tonight. She said, "Yes." "What is it?" "Well... could I borrow your influence for something tonight?" She looked at him directly as she asked the question in a cautious voice, almost testing the waters. Harrison said nothing, only gazing at her with those deep, unreadable eyes as he waited for her to continue. Taking a deep breath, Serena decided to be upfront. "Tonight, Jeremy Hood, the vice president of Chandler Group, wants to meet me at Nightshade Bar to discuss a business deal. I suspect he has other intentions. I need your influence to ensure my safety." She knew that with Harrison's resources, he had likely already investigated what had happened the night before. There was no point in hiding anything, so she chose to be direct. She was gambling on whatever trace of sympathy he might have for her.