"Will Dad agree to it?" Misty was momentarily stunned. Matthew was a man driven by vanity and profit.He might not readily accept the complications of taking a break from Cromer Academy. Would he agree?"Of course, he'll agree."Claudia smirked, a hint of something profound in her eyes.She spoke in a light, drifting voice, "Do you think we're the only ones wishing to ruin Hannah? Your dad ... he'd love nothing more than that woman to be forever beneath your feet."Misty's chest tightened at the revelation, instinctively asking, "Why? Hannah is his biological daughter. How could he …?""There are some things you're better off not knowing." Claudia's smile deepened, and she gently tousled Misty's hair.Her gaze carried a disturbing implication, and she softly said, "Rest assured, I will never let Hannah overshadow you. Your dad ..."Claudia headed to the study to exchange words with Matthew. When he returned in the afternoon, a subtle smile adorned his face.Misty underst
Peak Vista, the big shot among these companies, had Chris as its leader. When he spoke like this, who wouldn't echo his sentiments? Everyone nodded in agreement, raising their voices in unison."Ms. Emerson, it's not about refusing respect. It's just the way these matters unfold.""Don't worry. Once we're done here, we'll follow up and get everything sorted out for you.""The process is laid out, and we're all law-abiding citizens. We can't rush these things, can we?"Each sentence sounded pleasant, but there wasn't a trace of sincerity in those words. "Everyone, this isn't the way to handle things," Dennis stated. He wasn't a smooth talker, which might explain why he hadn't succeeded in making a film for so many years.Now, with a dark expression, he hardened his stance. "You've taken all the benefits, and now you're telling us this? Are you dissatisfied with what we've given?""Mr. Westwood, what are you saying? We're all following the rules. If you're not satisfied, fe
Around the messy table, Hannah sat calmly behind it. Hearing their words, she smiled lightly. She looked confident, as if she was holding the winning hand. "Please."She genuinely didn't care whether they stayed or left. Chris felt a growing unease.Initially, when he knew he had to meet her, he harbored a sense of disdain, thinking it wouldn't be a big deal.She was a lady from the slums and just 21 years old. What tricks could she possibly have? Establishing herself in the upper echelons of high society surely required a lot of effort.If she had such skills, why bother venturing into investments and networking? Why not enjoy the life of a wealthy socialite?However, Hannah repeatedly shattered his preconceptions, breaking his established impressions. She was beautiful. Truly beautiful. When she turned cold, her entire demeanor intimidated even Chris, a seasoned player.Witnessing her temper, no one would mistake her for a mere adornment."Ms. Emerson, we're all rather i
"Look at it this way: I'm just asking for your help recommending a couple of films. I see you as a friend and I trust your judgment. How can that be considered making things difficult for you?" Hannah said with an unwavering smile, her voice light as if they were having a casual chat.Chris couldn't help but sigh.Both parties were well aware of each other's thoughts.Especially in this not-so-private gathering, where heads of other cinema chains accompanied him. If he uttered these words today, anyone present could spread the news throughout the industry. How would he manage to face everyone after this?As Chris grappled with his dilemma, the heads of other cinema chains couldn't hide their frowns."Mr. Reynolds, why fear her?" someone whispered."Can the Winchesters stretch their influence into Peak Vista?""Exactly, just because she's married into the Winchesters, that doesn't mean Hopeldon becomes her family's territory.""These are business secrets. You can't just talk
After saying that, Chris waved his hand. He quickly got into the car and left.The others exchanged glances. They were hesitant to linger and scattered away like startled birds.Ms. Emmerson's strategies were truly superb and ruthless. She carried out her plans seamlessly, manipulating situations effortlessly and provoking fear.Setting aside the fact that these individuals were scared out of their wits, Dennis, still inside the private room, was nearly overturning the table in anger."Henry!"He was genuinely furious. The face that had always been somewhat cynical was now flushed with anger."That bastard! I thought we had the camaraderie of university friends. He actually stabbed me in the back!"Chris and the others recommended a summer film to Hannah before leaving. It was "Maple Love." Dennis was so angry that his mind was clouded, but Hannah remained calm and composed.She had anticipated this and now confirmed her suspicions. She leisurely started eating the food
What if the public liked cheesy love stories made by famous stars? What if they preferred something other than deep or realistic themes?Dennis had too many uncertainties.Seeing him like this, Hannah couldn't help but sigh.She knew Dennis had doubted himself for too long. Since graduation, he had been denied and failed repeatedly. He had shown commendable perseverance by consistently overcoming challenges, but it wasn't enough."Mr. Westwood, it's not that we don't have good movies. It's just that, in the current popularity-driven market, what the audience sees is the result of maximizing profits after capital calculations."The market naturally leaned toward profits. Hannah's expression softened. She smiled and added, "Do you know why I still want to invest in your movie? Because I believe that if we work hard, we can make something valuable. And you, you're the one who makes valuable things."As I strive to share this film with the audience, I want to enjoy it myself, t
Hannah couldn't help but reach for his handsome face, unable to suppress her smile. "Mr. Winchester, why are you so sweet?"Her heart felt soft and warm as she was overjoyed and deeply moved. She felt like she could never get enough of Darren."I'm only sweet to you."Darren's deep, dark eyes seemed filled with a profound affection that could drown a person. His voice was gentle as he spoke, "Are you feeling happier now?"With a hint of emotion, Hannah playfully teased him. "Mr. Winchester, thank goodness it's the 21st century."Facing his puzzled gaze, she widened her smile and added, "If you were an ancient monarch, you'd be razing cities just for your love!"Darren was so extravagant.Yet, the feeling of being cherished was addictive.It was as if, no matter how rough the road ahead was, someone was always willing to pave a smooth path for her."A monarch?"Raising an eyebrow, Darren revealed a trace of proud disdain. "If you can't even protect your own woman, what's the
Carefully considering in his mind, Chris, undoubtedly skilled enough to occupy his current position, tentatively asked, "So, are we still sticking with July 5th?""Sure," replied Hannah straightforwardly, adding, "We agreed to air the premiere of 'Maple Love' that day. Mr. Reynolds, don't let me down!"At this point, Chris no longer faced the dilemma of his receding hairline. He was beginning to feel sympathy for Henry and Starshine Entertainment. Why would they pick a fight with such a formidable star?Also, Hannah had impeccable management skills, making it impossible to control her. Now, with Darren's lavish display of affection, it seemed like they weren't leaving any room for grievances.He postponed the film premiere by a few days, intending to pave the way effortlessly for her.Hannah was not one to forget grievances, specifically saying that she wanted to see "Maple Love" on the day of its release. This was like throwing down the gauntlet!Before, Chris didn't dare
Darren didn't let her off easily in the end. Darren, being in his prime years, had maintained his purity and had never been involved with other women. This was a great feat considering that Darren had managed to maintain his purity after being with her all this time. Having just celebrated their marriage, he had finally enjoyed some moments of satisfaction, only to face the complication with Erica. Lately, Hannah had been in low spirits. Darren wouldn't be so brutish as to insist on intimate matters with her when she was in such an emotional state. He had to suppress his desires.However, now she took the initiative to seduce him. For a man who had finally given in to his desires, it wasn't so easy to let go. Demonstrating his unyielding nature, Darren showed Hannah that he was not to be trifled with. Carefully timing his actions, he eventually released her. Hannah, now lying on the bed, had a gentle gaze with a faint blush on her face. Her cheeks rested on the pillo
Even with their current financial difficulties, the atmosphere between them remained harmonious and warm.The smile in Hannah's eyes deepened a bit.Finding her uncle was undoubtedly a joyous event for her. After all, they hadn't been in contact for so many years, and confirming that Elvis' family members were reasonable and good people made her even happier."Grandma has never given up looking for you all these years, Uncle Elvis."Hannah briefly shared her thoughts. "I thought of taking you and Lilian to see Grandma directly to prevent her from overthinking.""Of course! Of course!"Jennifer laughed and agreed. She said, "If it weren't for my poor health and being hospitalized, I would have gone to see her too."Things were settled.Jennifer still had one more dialysis session in the coming days. Thus, their meeting was scheduled three days later.Hannah and Darren didn't stay much longer. After arranging for Jennifer to move to a single room, they left.Before they took
Jennifee hadn't looked before, but as soon as she did, she was almost startled.Under the shock, she even failed to contain her voice and exclaimed in surprise, "Elvis?" Her husband, who rarely got involved in affairs and was always practical, was now standing up excitedly. His eyes were fixed tightly on the two entering the room. He seemed as though he was about to pounce on those people. Lilian was also stunned. She couldn't help but reach out and grab Elvis' hand, her face carrying a hint of embarrassment. She lowered her voice desperately and said, "Dad, what are you doing?" She sensed that the eyes of the entire ward had turned their way under Jennifer's exclamation. The extraordinarily good-looking couple also looked over. Her cheeks turned red. She felt both nervous and embarrassed. She forcefully tugged on Elvis' hand and whispered urgently, "Dad, hurry up and sit down." However, Elvis not only didn't sit down, but he took a step forward and called out
At Hopeldon's top hospital, Elvis sat by the bedside as he watched the summer breeze rustle through the leaves outside the window. A look of realization crossed his face. "Mom, I bought your favorite food."Just then, a clear and lively voice rang out. A girl with twin tails briskly entered the ward while carrying a meal with a smile on her face. "I was lucky to find discounted meat. I bought some. Mom, you have to eat more." The pale woman on the bed smiled faintly and nodded. "Okay, I'll eat more." After that, Jennifer noticed that Elvis, sitting on the side, was still staring blankly out of the window while lost in thought. Jennifer frowned. She said softly, "Elvis, set up the table. It's time for lunch. Elvis. Elvis?" "Huh?"Elvis suddenly snapped out of his reverie. Noticing both his wife and daughter looking at him, he forced a smile. He rubbed his hands and stood up. "Lilian, did you bring the food back already? Let's have lunch then!" "Dad, what ha
She gently touched the scars on her face through the veil and then, with a sweet smile, began typing on the keyboard. "It would be great if I could help you. I'll be waiting for you to marry me!"As she replied to the message, her phone vibrated again. Robert asked with concern, "How did you get hold of these documents? Are you in any danger? Your safety is the most important thing!"Seeing his genuine concern, Misty felt even more convinced that her choice was right. The smile on her face seemed impossible to fade. She had done her research lately. Cosmetic surgery here was not particularly advanced, and her facial scars wouldn't be perfectly repaired even with surgery. Meanwhile, Arovia was renowned for its excellent plastic surgery industry. Although dealing with her facial scars would be troublesome, new technology could provide a complete recovery. The only deterrent was the daunting cost. No matter how regretful Matthew might feel, he wouldn't spend such a large s
She was even draped in a thin windbreaker that covered her from head to toe.Despite the light and thin fabric, it was an autumn windbreaker. Wearing it seemed unsuitable for the current season. "The car and the house both have air conditioning. How could I get heatstroke?" Misty's smile widened. Her fingers entwined around the belt of the windbreaker at her waist and gently pulled it twice. She spoke softly, "But since you want to see what's inside, I'll take it off, okay?" Following that, she pulled off her belt before Cedric. The fabric of the windbreaker was silky. After the belt came off, she shuddered, and the windbreaker slipped down from her shoulders. She wore a semi-sheer dress that draped over her skin, gently showcasing the contours of her figure in a subtle and alluring way. Then, she raised her hand and took off her hat. Her long hair was neatly arranged behind her head, revealing her forehead and a pair of seemingly innocent eyes. Below her eye
Just as she wished, Cedric felt an immediate dryness in his mouth. As the male protagonist in the book, he had indeed lived a smooth life without experiencing many setbacks.He was always the object of admiration by others since he was young.When had he ever bowed his head to anyone? Even when he failed in the competition for the heir of Garner Group, he remained the second young master of the company. No one dared to say much in front of him. Only Diana was different.Since that day, Diana had suddenly become completely different. The way she looked at him no longer held admiration, but instead, it was cold, as if she was scrutinizing him. Although she still lived with him and would occasionally show him her gentle side, that sense of discordance grew stronger. The previous Diana used to be completely submissive to him. She would believe and actively solve all his problems. But now?He seemed to have become a plaything in her hands.He was summoned at will a
He was just a poor guy with nothing but debt to his name.He had tried to recover his past memories and find his roots.He had been searching for decades, and even after getting married and having a daughter, he continued searching while struggling for a living.He never expected that just when he was gradually forgetting about this matter, life would suddenly take a new turn.This seemed a bit too dramatic. He wiped his face in silence before saying, "Of course, no problem. Not only did you guys just help me, but finding my family has also been a long-standing wish of mine. I'm willing to cooperate with whatever you need me to do." He hesitated for a moment and then added in a low voice, "I believe your wife's grandmother is really old, am I right? From what you just said, it seems her health is not great. Maybe we shouldn't disturb her before getting the results." He smiled bitterly and said, "I'm in my prime. Even if the outcome disappoints me, it's fine. But old people
Hannah didn't expect him to also have felt a sense of familiarity.Upon hearing that, she felt her heart skip a beat, feeling like the truth was gradually coming to the surface.She actually looked a lot like Eleanor.If the middle-aged man was really her uncle, even if he had been lost since childhood, wouldn't he still have memories of his biological sister's appearance?"May I ask if you are a native of Hopeldon? Were you born here?"She pursed her lips, staring at him before asking in rapid succession, "Who else is in your family? Are your parents still alive?"She asked many questions in one breath, sounding urgent and nervous.For someone she had only met for the second time, asking such questions seemed overly intrusive and might make people uncomfortable.But she couldn't care less now.Finding her uncle had been her grandmother's wish for many years.As she grew older, Hannah didn't want her to have any regrets in this life.The middle-aged man was also a little sur