Adeline Jardin, a humble fish seller, gave everything for Hugo Bernard—the heir of New York's elite. She waited seven long years, enduring his endless compromises. She gave him her heart, her body, even her blood... While he gave his marriage, children, and future to another woman. When Adeline finally let go, Hugo realized his mistakes. But this time—she was gone for good.
Chapter 1
The Bernard family had a long-standing rule—heirs could never marry a woman of humble origins.
But Hugo Bernard, the prince of New York's elite, fell for Adeline Jardin—a fish seller.
To be with her, he gave up his inheritance, endured 99 lashes, and knelt in the living room for three days and three nights. Blood soaked through his shirt, but he still smiled at her and said, "Adeline, don't be afraid. I only want you."
Later, the Bernard family finally gave in. They agreed to let him leave with her—but only if he left behind an heir.
From that day on, the word Hugo said to Adeline most often was, "Wait."
The first time, he asked her to wait so he could get another woman expecting. He slept with Steffie Guenet 33 times until she conceived.
The second time, he told Adeline to wait again because the first baby was a girl, and the family demanded a son. He slept with Steffie 99 more times until she got expecting again.
Just when Adeline thought it was finally over, Steffi
