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Chapter 137
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As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apartย ย ย Chapter 138
"Oh, by the way, howโs the handover with Brighton Group going?""Itโs going well. Their boss is easy to work with," Stellar answered honestly."Their boss?"Claude raised an eyebrow in surprise."I remember hearing that their CEO is quite the enigma. He rarely makes public appearancesโitโs always his acting director, Shane Howe, handling things. โYou actually met him? Rumor has it heโs sharp-eyed, incredibly selective, and hard to please. And you think heโs easy to work with?"Stellar blinked.Was Stephen just going easy on her because she was his junior?She wasnโt sure how to explain it to her uncle before he nodded to himself and carried on."Well, makes sense. Our Stellar is so capable and outstandingโwho wouldnโt treat you with kindness?"As far as he was concerned, the whole world should acknowledge his nieceโs brilliance.Even Stellar felt embarrassed hearing him boast so openly."Alright, Uncle Claude, stop hyping me up like a market vendor. Iโm heading upstairs. Weโll talk la
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apartย ย ย Chapter 139
Mary was momentarily stunned by the barrage of questions before finally processing them. "Oh, you must be talking about Mr. Ward from next door. Heโs Miss Stellarโs senior at school. โShe mentioned theyโre attending an academic symposium together this afternoon at two." Hearing that it wasnโt a date, and that the guy was just a fellow student, Claude felt slightly more at ease. But then he caught onto something. "His last name is Wardโฆ?" He clicked his tongue in distaste. What bad luck. Of all people, the guy had to share a last name with that insufferable Ward family. That same family had recently called off an engagement with them. Hah. It was their loss. Stellar was exceptionalโone day, theyโd regret it. Just as he was about to complain further, his phone rang with a call from a business associate. Letting the matter go, he grabbed a quick bite before heading out. โฆMeanwhile. Stellar and Stephen arrived at the symposium precisely at two oโclock. The venu
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apartย ย ย Chapter 140
"Hello, Miss Rivers. Hello, Mr. Ward." The girl greeted them with a bright smile. "Iโm Dawn Jones, a junior at your university. Are you two attending the symposium together?" Stellar was caught off guard. There was something oddly familiar about Dawnโs face, but she couldnโt quite place it. Still, since the girl had greeted them politely, she naturally responded in kind. "Yes, we are. Are you participating as well?" "I wasnโt originally supposed to, but I got in as a volunteer for the event. Thatโs the only reason Iโm here," Dawn said cheerfully before tilting her head. "By the way, are you two wearing matching outfits? You look great together." Her tone was casual, neither too loud nor too soft, but just enough for Percy to overhear from nearby. Stellar blinked, then instinctively glanced down. Only then did she realize that she and Stephen were both wearing deep emerald green. They hadnโt planned it at all, yet somehow, they ended up looking perfectly coordinated
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apartย ย ย Chapter 141
Stellar was utterly speechless. "When exactly did I bully anyone? If your eyes are failing you, go see an ophthalmologist. If your brain isn't working, a psychiatrist might help!" She fired back without hesitation. Dawn suddenly seemed to realize the situation had escalated and hurried to explain. "Mr. Moore, itโs not what you think. I made the mistake. It has nothing to do with Miss Rivers. Youโve misunderstood." But the more she tried to smooth things over, the more Percy felt the need to defend her. "Dawn, you donโt have to cover for her. I saw everything with my own eyesโher throwing her weight around while you kept begging for forgiveness.โA cold-hearted woman like that doesnโt deserve your apology." That was when it clicked for Stellar. These two clearly knew each other from before. Now, she really couldnโt be bothered to argue. Her patience was wearing thin. "Percy, what does any of this have to do with you? In what capacity are you questioning me right now
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apartย ย ย Chapter 142
Under the weight of countless eyes and a wave of applause, Stellar stepped onto the stage, her movements slightly stiff. In the audience, Percy finally snapped out of his daze. Seeing the slight nervousness in Stellarโs posture, a sneer tugged at his lips. "Hah, thereโs no way sheโll do well. As if she could possibly measure up to Professor Song." To be honest, despite Stellar being hailed as a genius back in school, Percy had always thought that title was exaggerated. Back then, she was always so meek around himโwhere was the brilliance everyone spoke of? Two years had passed, and he still didnโt believe she was as capable as people claimed. On stage, Stellar took the microphone from Sean, his kind and encouraging gaze steady on her. Hundreds of scholars and professors watched her expectantly. Her heartbeat pounded in her chest, and her throat felt dry. She could even hear whispers from the crowd. "Why hasnโt she started yet?" "Did she freeze up?" She really wa
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apartย ย ย Chapter 143
Dawn approached again with a bright smile, this time with Percy trailing behind her, his expression unreadable. "I really want to apologize for earlier. Actually, Iโve always admired you, Miss Rivers. Your speech just now was incredible! Iโd love to treat you to dinner as an apology. Would you be willing to join me?" Her eyes shimmered with cautious hope. "No need," Stellar replied flatly, unmoved. Dawnโs face faltered, a hint of disappointment flashing across it before she quickly turned to Percy for help. "Mr. Moore, you and Miss Rivers know each other well, donโt you? Could you help me invite her? We could all have dinner togetherโmy treat." Percy hesitated for a brief moment, but quickly masked it with his usual indifferent demeanor. "You heard her, didnโt you, Stellar? Dawn is extending such a sincere invitation. Canโt you drop that high-and-mighty attitude of yours just this once?" Right on cue, Dawn put on a pitiful expression, as if she had been wronged. That
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apartย ย ย Chapter 144
"Itโs nothing. Just an idiot. Letโs go."Without another glance, Stellar turned and left the venue with Stephen.Behind them, Percy stood frozen, his entire body rigid with anger. He could practically feel his insides burning with frustration."Mr. Moore, donโt be upset. I didnโt handle things well. I couldnโt create the right opportunity for you," Dawn said apologetically, her face full of guilt."If you want to blame someone, blame me.""Itโs not your fault."If anything, all of this only made Percy think even more highly of Dawn.She had a face so similar to Stellarโs, yet why couldnโt Stellar be as obedient and considerate as Dawn?After leaving the venue, Stellar turned to Stephen, curiosity sparking in her eyes."What did Professor Song say to you just now?""He praised your quick thinking and said your speech was outstanding. Heโd like to discuss more professional topics with you next time if the opportunity arises."Stephen glanced down at her, a flicker of amusement in his ga
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apartย ย ย Chapter 145
Stellar sat in the backseat with Mary beside her. Sensing her unease, Mary gently reassured her. "Miss, there's no need to be nervous. Mr. and Mrs. Rivers Sr. are both kind peopleโthey're going to love you."Stellar was, in fact, anxious. After experiencing the coldness of the Harlow family, she wasnโt eager to relive that kind of disappointment. From the front passenger seat, Claude turned slightly to offer his own reassurance. "Relax, Stellar. Everyone at home has been looking forward to meeting you. They wonโt let you down." The driver smoothly turned the car around, pulling out of the estate. Just as they exited the driveway, Stephen happened to step out of the neighboring villa. His gaze landed on the car, and for a brief moment, he caught sight of the man sitting in the passenger seat. Something about that silhouette felt oddly familiar. He took a few steps forward, intending to get a clearer look, but before he could, the car had already driven past him. โฆ
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As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apartย ย ย Chapter 232
For a moment, the teamโs admiration for Joy soared to an all-time high. However, Stellar wasnโt so easily convinced. She had researched this equipment model before and knew that only one company in the country had the authorization to distribute it. She planned to look into that companyโs background later. Since she was now officially part of the baseโs engineering team, she wanted to do her part to help. โฆAfter work in the evening, Stellar received a call from Edwin. "Uncle Edwin?" A warm, clear voice came through the line. "Stellar, Mary told me youโre at the base. I just so happen to be outside right now." Surprised, Stellar quickly ended the call and headed out. The moment she stepped outside, her eyes landed on a sleek black Bentley. Standing beside it was a tall, refined man with strikingly handsome features. His deep-set eyes carried a hint of indulgence and warmth when they landed on her, instantly making him seem approachable and charming. But, why did
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apartย ย ย Chapter 231
Janet felt like she was choking on her own words, nearly spitting blood in frustration. Her face burned with humiliation, especially when she met Stellarโs calm, indifferent gazeโit was a silent mockery. Clenching her fists tightly, she lifted her chin, forcing herself to maintain an air of arrogance. "Even if he wonโt bend the rules for me professionally, Iโm still the most important woman in his life. โYou probably donโt know this but let me tell you a little secretโhe owes me his life. I once saved him, and because of that, he promised to marry me. โYou know what kind of man he isโresponsible and honorable. He wonโt go back on his word." Her lips curled into a smug smile again. "An exceptional man like him belongs to me. Too bad, Stellarโyouโll never win against me when it comes to stealing a man." The thought of gaining the upper hand over Stellar filled her with satisfaction. She had expected Stellar to explode with jealousy, maybe even lash out at her. If she di
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apartย ย ย Chapter 230
A flicker of surprise crossed Stellarโs face. Hadn't Stephen already agreed to let her observe in the lab? Just then, Stephen approached. Noticing the tools she was carrying, he immediately understood. "Stellar, you're here to continue the second phase of the experiment? Come use my lab. The equipment there is more advancedโit'll be easier." He offered the invitation first, but Stellarโs tone remained indifferent. "No need." "Why?" Stephen looked puzzled. Stellar didnโt hide anything. She lifted her gaze to meet his and spoke directly. "Since you've already given Janet access to your lab, it wouldnโt be appropriate for me to go there as well." Stephen froze for a moment before suddenly laughing. So, this was why she was upset with him. "You misunderstood. Janet did ask to observe in the lab, but I rejected her. I wouldnโt give her special treatment. What kind of person do you take me for?" Stellar was slightly surprised. Her expression softened a little. Step
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apartย ย ย Chapter 229
She thought that since Stephen took the initiative to come over, it seemed he did have some feelings for her. Maybe she could give him a chance. But what if he denied it? Stephen froze for a moment. So, this was what she was upset about. But he never intended to keep it a secret. Now was the perfect moment. "Yes, Iโฆ" For once, he felt a little nervous. Just as he was about to take out the gift he had prepared for his confession, Stellar's expression turned ice-cold. The hint of anticipation in her eyes vanished. She pushed his hand away, opened the car door, and got in, driving off without hesitation. Stephen stood there, stunned. A flicker of confusion and disbelief crossed his face. Why was she angry? Was she upset because Janet had found out about the gift in advance? Or was it because he hadn't told her earlier that he knew Janet? With that thought, he pulled out his phone, intending to explain things to Stellar. Just then, Janetโs call came through.
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apartย ย ย Chapter 228
Before Keith could even get a word in, another striking woman with an air of elegance strolled over. "You ladies really have no self-awareness. If Keith hasnโt reached out to you, that means heโs done with you. Whatโs the point of clinging like this? Heโs my man." Keith actually recognized this woman. But what was she doing here? His eyelid twitched furiously. This whole scene was completely unexpected. It felt orchestratedโlike someone had planned it. Then, the sound of slow, deliberate applause echoed through the air. Stephen, who left earlier, casually walked back, looking thoroughly entertained. "Impressive, Keith. Truly a ladies' man. Youโve got so many women wrapped around your finger and still have the nerve to break more hearts. Quite the talent." Stellar raised an eyebrow. Hadnโt Stephen just left with Janet? Why was he back? "Stephen Ward!" Keith shot to his feet, finally piecing everything together. "This was your doing, wasnโt it? You set this up to ruin m
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apartย ย ย Chapter 227
Suzyโs eye twitched hard.She had always been unstoppable in the game of romanceโnever once had she met a man she couldnโt charm.His cold rejection annoyed her, but instead of backing off, it only fueled her intrigue."Oh? Is that so?"She curved her lips into a seductive smile, one that could bring kingdoms to their knees.Taking a step closer, she trailed her soft fingers along his throat, gliding down his shoulder, then slowly over the firm muscles of his chest.Like an irresistible temptress, she refused to let up."Are you sure you donโt feel anything for me?"Her fingers moved with deliberate slowness, leaving a trail of heat in their wake.Edwinโs gaze darkened.Without warning, he grabbed her wrist, spun her around, and pinned her against the wall.Suzy instinctively tried to retreat, but he gave her no room to escape.His arm hooked around the back of her neck as he leaned in and kissed her hard."You started this," he murmured against her lips.Late at night, wrapped in sile
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A sharp glint flickered in Janetโs eyes.So, her dear cousin actually had the power to make Stephen lose control like that? Impressive.But it didnโt matter.She would win him back.With that thought in mind, Janet tugged gently at Stephenโs sleeve, her voice soft and coaxing."Stephen, we should go. We donโt want to be lateโฆ"Stephenโs face remained dark, his jaw tight as he said nothing. Without another word, he turned and led Janet away.Stellar, still engaged in conversation with Keith, caught the movement from the corner of her eye. She lowered her gaze, masking the flicker of disappointment in her expression.Keith, however, had been watching her the entire time. It didnโt take much for him to notice the shift in her mood.He followed her gaze, just in time to catch Stephenโs retreating figure and the woman beside him.Keithโs eyes narrowed slightly, a hint of mischief flashing across them before he let out a slow, amused whistle."Well, wellโฆ isnโt that Stephen? Didnโt take
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apartย ย ย Chapter 225
Suzy remained completely oblivious to the outrageous words that had just come out of her mouth."Good evening, Ms. Riversโฆ" the male escorts greeted her in perfect unison, bowing politely.Stellarโs lips twitched hard.She cleared her throat, her tone as gentle as possible."Suzy, I donโt think this is necessaryโฆ"But Suzy waved her off. "It is! Theyโll give you all the emotional support you need. Just relax and let them take care of you.""Ms. Rivers, please let us keep you company.""Ms. Rivers, do you enjoy drinking? I can personally feed you a sip."The escorts enthusiastically tried to engage her, their voices warm and inviting.Just as Stellar was scrambling for a way out, Suzy suddenly stood up."Oh! I just spotted a prime specimenโIโm gonna go say hi. You take your time and have fun!"She shot Stellar a playful wink before disappearing into the crowd.Stellar barely had time to call after her before she was gone.With Suzy out of the picture, the men around her became even more
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"What happened?" Stellarโs heart tightened as she quickly got in her car and rushed to SA Club, following the address Suzy had sent.When she finally arrived at the booth, she found Suzy hunched over a glass of liquor, drinking sullenly.The tension in her chest eased instantly.With a mix of relief and exasperation, she sat down beside her. "You scared me to death! I thought something serious had happened.""It is serious!"Suzy slammed her glass down, her face full of misery as she poured out her grievances."You have no idea! A few days ago, I went on a date with my boy toy, and guess what? My mom caught us! She thinks heโs just a gold digger and is now forcing me to go on blind dates!โCan you believe it? Meโa rising star at the peak of my careerโbeing reduced to blind dates?! Tell me, isnโt that tragic?"Stellar couldnโt help but chuckle, shaking her head. "Your mom is just looking out for your future. She probably just wants you to find someone reliable.""Exactly! Thatโs what sh
