In the spacious restaurant, Abigail's voice of astonishment could be heard.Many people's eyes fell on her. After all, she was a public figure, so she quickly covered her face.Russell gave her a meaningful look and said, "Why are you so nervous?"Abigail collected her thoughts and said, "I'm just curious, how did Carolyn end up staying at your place?"Russell said, "Braylen's house was being monitored, and he suspected it was done by a rival company. Because he was worried about Carolyn's safety, he sent her to Serene Manor."Zoey looked at the man, and he kept Carolyn being drugged a secret.Abigail seemed to breathe a sigh of relief as she smiled and said, "So Carolyn has moved into Serene Manor, Russell. Can I go too?"Russell lifted his gaze and said, "No, it is not allowed."He refused thoroughly, which made Abigail awkwardly tug at the corners of her mouth and say, "Why can't I?""Because Carolyn couldn't move, it didn't affect my and Zoey's normal life. Your behavior, on the o
Facing various doubts, Ariana still maintained a smile on her face.She looked at Nelson affectionately and said, "Regarding the matter of photos and videos, we have already clarified that they are all false. As for the truth of the matter, I cannot say much here because there are people I want to protect, and Nelson also has people he wants to protect."Ariana's words left a lot of room for imagination.At this moment, a male voice sounded."Is it all made up? I can't believe you can say such things. After verification, the photos and videos are indeed real! You stole someone else's fiancé and shamelessly implied that the person you claimed to protect turned their back on him! You want to act promiscuously while still wanting to maintain a virtuous image."Roland wore sunglasses, his silver hair flowing freely, and he spoke without mercy, successfully causing Ariana's face to darken.The journalists and media started asking questions about this matter again.Nelson quickly intervened
Everyone held their breath, afraid that they might miss any crucial evidence.Their phones and cameras were all aimed at the computer screen.The perspective in the screen was recorded by the computer camera.Zoey was playing the guitar and singing this song, and she also recorded a segment.At that moment, Ariana walked in and said, "Zoey, you sang that song so beautifully, what's it called?"Zoey said, "Break up."Ariana sat next to her and said, "How do you sing, Zoey? Can you teach me?"Zoey smiled and said, "Okay!"She sang a line, and Ariana followed with another line.Although Ariana was not off-key, her voice lacked any distinctive features, and at this level, it was simply impossible for entertainment companies to take notice of her.The video ends, Zoey looks at Ariana and says, "So, Born Beauty was attracted to you in the video? Honestly, do I need to poison you for having such a voice?"Ariana's face turned pale, and she trembled with her eyelashes. "You just wanted to lif
The banquet hall was magnificent, with golden decorations and a crystal chandelier emitting dazzling light.Melodious music played, accompanied by the laughter and clinking of glasses from men and women.Today, those who came were all influential figures in Lochcliff.Attending the birthday banquet was secondary; the main purpose was to network.They all particularly wanted to get close to Russell, the person in power of the Maddox Group, after all, this big shot is usually too low-key, and it is not easy to meet him in person.At that moment, Marlene was sitting in the main seat, with Livia and Aubrie standing beside her.They were responsible for receiving the gifts sent by the crowd.Alonso, who was standing by, said, "If you're tired, go rest in the upstairs guest room."Marlene waved her hand and said, "I was in a particularly good mental state now, thanks to the divine doctor. His medical skills were truly remarkable. In the past, I often felt chest tightness and shortness of br
Dahlia’s voice was loud, drawing the attention of everyone nearby. Zoey looked at the old lady and said solemnly, “I didn’t plagiarize. This is my design.” Dahlia scoffed. “An identical design, and you claim it’s not plagiarism? Who would believe that? Ariana is a designer at Born Beauty! You’ve only been at Born Beauty for a month—what could you possibly design? Zoey, apologize to the old lady immediately. She’s always generous and will surely forgive you.” Zoey responded calmly, “You’ve never trusted me—not in the past, and not now. But I didn’t plagiarize. This is my original work.” Dahlia glared at her. “If you didn’t plagiarize, are you saying Ariana did?” “You seem capable of making that judgment yourself,” Zoey replied, turning to Ariana. “Ariana, think carefully before you speak. Did I plagiarize you?” Ariana pressed her lips together and looked at the old lady. “Grandmother, this is truly my design. I don’t know why Zoey’s brooch design is identical to mine,” she said wi
Zoey glanced toward Russell, who was currently surrounded by a group of influential figures. This moment seemed perfect—if Russell noticed something amiss, the mastermind behind the scenes would hesitate to act rashly. Only under such pressure would they reveal themselves. Supporting Leanna, Zoey led her unsteady steps toward the restroom. Leanna felt some strength return to her body, and the oppressive heat subsided. In a voice low enough for only the two of them to hear, she asked, “Zoey, how’s my act so far?” Zoey chuckled softly. “Good enough to fool anyone.” Leanna’s eyes twinkled with excitement. “I’m actually looking forward to this. So, when do we get ‘abducted’?” Before Zoey could respond, four men suddenly appeared behind them. Each grabbed one of the women by the arm and dragged them into a nearby lounge, locking the door behind them. The two women were thrown onto a sofa while the four men stood before them, already undoing their belts, spewing crude and obscene rema
Zoey observed Ariana’s shocked expression, raising her brow slightly. “I shouldn’t be here? You think I should be in there instead?”Ariana stammered, her lips trembling. “N-no, I just thought…”“You thought that woman was me,” Zoey said, gripping Ariana’s shoulder harder. “Where do you get all these thoughts, huh?”Ariana cried out in pain, “Zoey, you’re hurting me!”Livia scolded Zoey, “Let go of Ariana right now! She came here because she was worried about you.”Instead of releasing her, Zoey tightened her grip further. “Worried about me? So you brought all these people to enjoy the spectacle? Were you trying to protect me, or ruin my reputation?”Ariana hadn’t expected Zoey to be so strong; the pain caused sweat to bead on her forehead. “Zoey, I swear, I was genuinely concerned for you!”“If you were concerned, shouldn’t you have alerted Russell to rescue me? What made you think your feeble skills could save me, huh?” Zoey questioned coldly.She recalled her past life when she had
Russell watched the girl with flushed cheeks, her drunken eyes hazy and entrancing. He lifted her chin with a finger, his voice calm but firm. "I didn’t look." Zoey raised an eyebrow. "Is she prettier than me?" Russell chuckled softly. "I didn’t look. How would I know what she looks like?" Zoey squinted at him, sensing his evasion. "Then, am I pretty?" Their breaths intertwined, the faint aroma of red wine mingling with Zoey’s natural fragrance, teasing Russell’s senses. His Adam’s apple bobbed as he replied hoarsely, "You’re beautiful." Zoey’s fingers toyed with the buttons of his shirt, the playful smile on her lips inching closer to his. "What’s your relationship with Roland?" Zoey’s eyes gleamed with mischief. "Roland? He’s my little errand boy." Relieved, Russell’s tone softened. "Zoey, in the future, can you please let me know if you have something going on?"Zoey’s drunken gaze sharpened slightly. "Are you upset?" Russell’s lips pressed into a thin line. "It’s not that
Madeleine looked at her with a meaningful smile and said, "There were many opponents, please teach me more."She prepared to go back and study the role carefully, aiming to make some changes and convince the director to cut that scene.At that moment, Kristian walked over with his assistant Bryan."Congratulations on getting the role of the female lead."Madeleine inwardly sneered, as this was already a settled matter.If it weren't for Tiffany causing trouble, we wouldn't have gone through it again.Perhaps Tiffany was so confident because she relied on Kristian's influence.She felt nauseous with all the insincere congratulations now.However, he had just helped her with the testimony, and with so many people present, she couldn't just embarrass him in front of everyone.Tiffany walked up to Madeleine and said, "Kristian, what about my role as the second female lead?"Kristian didn't give her an extra glance and looked directly at Madeleine, "Your earring is in my car, do you want t
Madeleine pressed her temples and spent the night in a daze, dreaming about Kristian.Seeing herself and Karter trending, she let out a sigh.These paparazzi really have nothing better to do. They can even create rumors just from having a meal.She called her agent Makenzie and as soon as the call was connected, she heard a woman's roar on the other end."My ancestor, why did you only call back now?"Madeleine quickly moved the phone half a meter away from her ear, "Lower your voice, it's too loud.""Did you see the news?""I saw it, it was just high school classmates having a meal, the media always likes to stir up trouble. I have nothing to hide, I'll just find someone to handle the public relations."Makenzie felt a headache, "The company had already dealt with it, but rumors spread like wildfire. You better post a tweet to clear your name."Madeleine sighed, "Fine, I'll finish getting ready and then send it.""You send it now!" Makenzie was absolutely furious, "You have such a ner
Madeleine saw Tiffany talking to Kristian with a sweet smile on her face, and her heart felt sour.Although she managed her facial expressions well, she was still caught by Karter, who suggested changing restaurants for dinner.Madeleine did not refuse, she nodded in agreement.The two of them left the restaurant, and Karter asked Madeleine what she wanted to eat.Madeleine had lost her appetite, everything she ate tasted the same. She looked up and saw the restaurant across the street, "Let's go to that one."Karter noticed her desolation and took her with him.When ordering, he also noticed that her mind was elsewhere."Do you like Kristian?" Karter asked directly.Madeleine suddenly lifted her gaze, "Did you figure it out?"Karter sighed lightly, "Your expression said it all. But it seems like Kristian has someone by his side now. That woman seems to be quite famous."Madeleine nodded, "Her name is Tiffany, the queen of variety shows.""You are beautiful and have a good personality
Kristian's hand holding the knife and fork paused, he lifted his gaze to the person opposite him, looking displeased, "Were you following me?"Tiffany's lips curved into a beautiful smile, "Of course not, I came here with my friends. I saw you and Deegan Adkins eating here earlier and didn't want to disturb you. But when he left, I thought it would be a good opportunity to say hello to you."Kristian looked at her and found it difficult to swallow the food. He decided to put down his knife and fork and leaned back against the back of the chair."Now that you have said hello, you can leave."Tiffany, with a smile on her lips as if she couldn't see the man's annoyance, said, "Kristian, we have known each other for many years. Do you remember how I used to follow you like a shadow, but you always had a cold face? However, what you said that day was really hurtful, and I don't think liking you is something unreasonable. If you don't like me, you can just say it, and I won't bother you any
The next evening at half past five, a black Bentley parked in front of the ornate gate of the Keller's manor.The bodyguard called and said he had seen a suspicious vehicle.After hearing about this, Madeleine called Karter on the phone, and he answered quickly."Is the car parked at the entrance yours?"Karter lightly hummed, "I arrived a bit early."Madeleine stood by the French window, holding her phone and chuckled softly, "It's okay, I'll have the bodyguard open the gate for you, come in.""Okay."After hanging up the phone, Madeleine immediately called the bodyguard to have Karter's car driven in.She sat in front of the dressing table and started putting on makeup. After all, she was a public figure, so she had to put on a light makeup before going out.At the same time, Karter had entered the Keller Manor.Tabitha looked up and down at the polite and handsome man. She waved her hand and said, "Please have a seat."After thanking, Karter sat on the sofa, with Tabitha, Danielle,
Russell didn't know where a black scarf appeared from, and he blindfolded Zoey with it."Don't open your eyes and look, I will show you the gift in a moment."Zoey closed her eyes and felt the living room lights go out, everything was in darkness.At that time, human senses were infinitely magnified.Russell's footsteps faded away, and soon after, soft footsteps could be heard again, as if someone was walking on tiptoe."Russell? What were you doing?"Her eyes moved, wanting to take them off and look, but her wrist was grabbed by someone."Wait a moment."Zoey pursed her lips and smiled, "What's the matter? Why so secretive?""Okay, you take it off yourself."Zoey couldn't wait to take off the scarf, and the moment she saw Russell, she burst into laughter.Afraid of waking Layne up, she quickly covered her mouth.She cleared her throat and held back a laugh as she watched the man dressed in a maid outfit. His long legs were clad in black stockings, and he walked on tiptoes, wearing a
Russell took Zoey and Layne back to the apartment.The first thing I was supposed to do after returning was to give Layne a bath, but the little one insisted on opening the gift box first.He sat on the carpet next to the living room sofa, sitting in the pile of gift boxes, and began to unwrap them.Russell and Zoey sat on the couch, watching him, their lips curved with joyful smiles.Layne opened a blue package box, opened the lid, and inside were four keys and a note.He picked up the note and read, "Uncle wishes you a happy birthday. This is the key to Windy Garden, a total of four sets of houses, living in adjacent doors, very convenient. Uncle will give you a set of houses every year from now on."Layne exclaimed, looking at Russell and Zoey, "So by the time I turn thirty, does that mean I will have thirty houses?""It seems like I can finally lie down!" Layne continued unwrapping the gift, muttering to himself, "Uncle really lacks creativity, giving me a house every year as a bi
After Madeleine returned to the banquet hall, she felt heavy-hearted. She sat on the intricately carved chair, pursing her lips.She just found it funny that someone who had once harshly rejected her was now coming back to bother her just because of one unexpected night.Kristian was convinced that she still liked him, thinking that all he had to do was snap his fingers and she would obediently sleep with him.Madeleine felt that her dignity had been trampled upon, and she couldn't help but clench her hand holding the tall glass.Why was he so certain that she liked him?Why couldn't she get close to Karter?Why did he want to restrict her social life and personal freedom?He didn't let her do anything, but she insisted on doing it!What did Karter say about her not being sincere? How did he know?Although there is nothing between her and Karter now, but in case there is something, why can't Karter be sincere to her?Doesn't Madeleine deserve to be liked or loved by someone?Just then
When Kristian returned to the Rosario Manor, he saw Laurel sitting on the sofa as soon as he entered the door, with Tiffany massaging her legs beside her.He immediately turned around to leave, but was stopped by Laurel."Kristian!"Kristian paused, took a deep breath, and glanced sideways. "Didn't you say you were feeling uncomfortable in your heart? Since Tiffany is here, I feel relieved."Tiffany looked at Laurel with a face full of grievances, and Laurel patted her hand, indicating her to relax.Laurel got up and her seventy-year-old body looked strong. She walked quickly to Kristian's front and blocked his way."Grandma, I haven't seen you for a long time, I miss you so much. Can you have dinner with me before you leave, please?" Laurel pleaded with a longing expression.Even so, Kristian still wanted to refuse.Just as he was about to speak, Davian came down the stairs and said, "Stay and have dinner."Kristian dared not defy Davian, so he had to stay.Laurel hummed and said, "I