LOGINShare
Chapter 240
Related chapters
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 241
The car window rolled down, revealing Suzy’s bright, playful smile."Stellar! Weren’t we supposed to grab dinner and go shopping? We’ll be late for our reservation—hurry up and get in!"Stellar snapped out of her thoughts and quickly nodded."Right, sorry, Stephen. I already made plans with a friend. Maybe another time."Without waiting for a response, she slipped into the car, leaving Stephen standing alone once again.He sighed, watching the car disappear down the street before finally turning to leave.…Inside the car, Suzy glanced at Stellar, reading her expression carefully.After a moment, she asked, "I didn’t interrupt anything, did I?"Stellar, completely unfazed, answered smoothly, "No, you showed up at the perfect time."Seeing that she wasn’t sulking or drowning in heartbreak, Suzy relaxed."Well, what about you and my dear Uncle Edwin…"Before Stellar could finish voicing her concern, Suzy waved it off breezily."Him? Oh, please, I forgot about him ages ago. I’ve already g
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 242
Stellar instinctively turned away, pretending she hadn’t seen them.But, of course, Margaret noticed her immediately.Remembering how she had been humiliated the last time they crossed paths, her expression darkened.Then, as if suddenly struck with an idea, she looped her arm through Dawn’s and approached, a bright smile plastered across her face."Ms. Rivers, what a surprise! You still have time to shop for jewelry? But why isn’t Stephen here with you? Isn’t he your boyfriend?"She feigned concern, but her tone dripped with sarcasm.She had been waiting for this moment.Last time, she was forced to endure Stellar’s sharp tongue, but now? She had a new daughter-in-law. And soon, a golden grandchild. With that, the Moore family had secured their place in the main lineage. Their status was completely different now.Stellar’s tone was indifferent. "My personal life has nothing to do with you, Mrs. Farrell."She was indirectly telling Margaret to mind her own business.However, Margar
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 243
Stellar abruptly turned around and saw them standing in front of the same display case.Dawn confidently pointed at the emerald necklace inside and said, "Madam Margaret, in my opinion, this emerald necklace has a vibrant hue, a brilliant shine, and is quite rare. Why don’t we go with this one?""Excellent. I like it. As expected of my daughter-in-law—your taste is impeccable."Besides, since it was the one Stellar chose, it had to be a good pick. She was determined to take it for herself.Margaret, pleased with the choice, didn't forget to shower Dawn with praise.Suzy, watching the blatant act, let out a laugh of disbelief. "Do you even understand the concept of first come, first served? Stellar picked this first. You’re just stealing her choice."However, Dawn put on an innocent face. "Oh? Ms. Rivers liked this necklace too? I’m so sorry, I didn’t notice you earlier. “I just thought it would suit Aunt Margaret perfectly. But someone as distinguished as you wouldn’t fuss over somet
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 244
The looks from the crowd were filled with mockery and disdain.Exhibition samples were always fake, yet she had just boasted about buying one—at double the price, no less.And all because she had trusted Dawn’s so-called expertise.In all her years, Margaret had never suffered such an embarrassing moment. It was utterly humiliating.Her face burned bright red as she shot a furious glare at Dawn. Unable to endure the humiliation under so many watchful eyes, she turned and fled in disgrace.That left Dawn standing alone in the middle of the hall, overwhelmed with embarrassment.She instinctively glanced at Stellar, only to find her standing with arms crossed, a faint smirk playing on her lips.It was obvious that Stellar had set her up.She had deliberately led her into this, making a fool out of her in front of everyone.Dawn clenched her jaw tightly.So, she had done this on purpose?How vicious could one woman be?But now wasn’t the time to dwell on it. She needed to catch up with Ma
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 245
Dawn’s phone screen was filled with message notifications.“Dawn Jones, you heartless thing! It’s been days, and you still haven’t transferred the $20,000?”“I raised you all these years, and this is how you repay me? Ungrateful brat.”“If you don’t send the money soon, I’ll come find you myself! Your brother needs the dowry for his fiancée.”Disgust flashed across Dawn’s face. She silenced her phone and shoved it back into her bag.These parasites.If she hadn’t been desperate to cut ties with them, she wouldn’t have gone behind Percy’s back to seek out Margaret.Margaret’s voice suddenly broke her thoughts. "I heard you’re still living alone?"Dawn immediately collected herself and responded obediently. "Yes, but my lease is almost up. I was just thinking about finding a new place…""There’s no need for that. It’s not safe for you to live outside, especially while you’re pregnant. I’ll take you to stay at Percy’s villa for now." Margaret decided for her.A surge of excitement shot
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 246
Stephen was the last person Stellar expected to see at the villa entrance.He was wearing only a light jacket, despite the cold weather. His fingers had turned red from the biting wind, and it was impossible to tell how long he had been waiting.The moment he saw her, his dark eyes lit up, and he immediately stepped forward."Stellar, you’re back. I was afraid I might miss you, so I waited. Luckily, you came."Stellar looked at his wind-chilled face, emotions stirring within her.She remained silent for a while before finally speaking. "What exactly do you want to say?"Stephen froze.There was so much he wanted to ask.“Why are you treating me so coldly?”“Why did you return the lab keys?”But when he finally opened his mouth, all he said was, "I wanted to take you out for dinner. Will you come?""There’s no need."Stellar’s expression turned indifferent as she prepared to head inside.Panic flickered across Stephen’s face. Ignoring the situation, he hurriedly explained, "I wanted to
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 247
Stephen’s presence was overpowering, as if he carried some kind of built-in radar.The moment he appeared, Stellar sensed it immediately."Uh, you guys go ahead and enjoy. I just remembered I have an important report I haven’t submitted yet."Without waiting for a response, she turned and left before Stephen could reach her.At the doorway, Stephen’s steps halted, and a suffocating pressure radiated from him.If before, Stellar had at least maintained a polite facade and exchanged a few words with him, then her outright avoidance just now made her stance painfully clear.She didn’t want any contact with him.A dull ache spread through his chest, a bitter emotion slowly seeping in.Taking out his phone, he opened their chat. The last message was from a month ago.He hesitated, typing out a message.“Stellar, can you tell me why…”He reworded it over and over again, typing it at least a dozen times, only to delete it every time.For the first time in his life, Stephen felt fear in matter
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 248
Stephen didn’t answer.But when Lilian looked up and met his gaze, she already knew.A satisfied smile spread across her face. "Alright, I’ll set it up for you."That evening.As Stellar left the base, her phone rang. It was Lilian, inviting her to a class gathering.She was about to decline, but Lilian wouldn’t take no for an answer, insisting that this was a one-time thing, their last chance before graduation. After relentless coaxing, Stellar finally agreed.Following the location Lilian sent, she arrived at Sophie Hotel.As she pushed open the private room door, she saw a lively crowd inside.Yet, despite the number of people, her eyes immediately locked onto a familiar figure.She froze for a moment, caught off guard. She hadn’t expected Stephen to attend something like this—a casual social gathering."There you are!" Lilian jumped up to greet her, pulling her over. "Come sit! We’ve been waiting for you.""Wait a second."Stellar hesitated, then offered an apologetic smile. "Li
Latest chapter
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 350
Stephen stepped into the room, his expression as composed as ever, completely free of flattery or pretense."See, Grandma? Even he says so," Stellar chimed in playfully. "He wouldn’t lie to you, would he?""Really?" Martha asked, raising a curious brow."Absolutely," Stephen replied, holding up a professional-looking camera that he'd clearly brought with intent. "In fact, I was hoping to take a photo—something to remember this by, if you don’t mind.""I’ll join her!" Stellar grinned, slipping behind her grandmother and wrapping her arms around her neck, resting her head on her shoulder.Martha couldn’t help but smile, the joy on her face soft and genuine.Stephen captured the moment—warmth, love, and laughter frozen perfectly in frame.He wasn’t the smooth-talking type, nor was he known for charming people easily. He usually kept his distance with that cool, reserved demeanor.But somehow, in the span of just one afternoon, he’d managed to win Martha over completely. She looked at h
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 349
“I’m here to see a friend and didn’t expect to run into you two,” Stephen said as he strode over, greeting Martha with a polite nod. Then he turned to Stellar, curiosity in his eyes. “I overheard something about wanting to try on costumes?”“That was the plan,” she replied.“Well, that’s perfect. A friend of mine owns a costume shop just around the corner. Why don’t I take you there?”Stellar’s eyes lit up as she looked at her grandmother. “Sounds like fate, Grandma. The costumes are right there. Why don’t you come with me? I’d love to see you dressed up too!”Martha hesitated, but a faint smile tugged at her lips. “Alright then.”Stephen quickly sent a message to his friend. “All set. Let’s go.”The three of them stepped into the shop, and it felt like walking into a vibrant world of drama and color.Gowns adorned with intricate embroidery swayed gently on their racks, chiffon sleeves fluttering like mist. Gold and silver threads wove through rich velvet and satin, forming elega
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 348
"You’re really turning down this kind of exposure? I get it that you’re holding out for payment, right? Fine. If you do the scene properly, I’ll give you one thousand."Anthony said it like he was doing her a favor. In his mind, anyone else would’ve been falling over themselves with gratitude.But Stellar had already run out of patience."You could offer me one million, and I still wouldn’t do it."Her words landed like a slap across his face.His expression darkened instantly. In all his years in the industry, he had never encountered a woman so ungrateful.Most women groveled for roles, buttered him up with flattery, and even agreed to unspoken terms just to get into his productions.But this woman? She looked at him like he was beneath her. Who did she think she was?Rage surged through him, stripping away whatever civility he had left."You think you’re somebody? Just because you’ve got a pretty face, you think you can play hard to get? Look at you, like some cheap little tease
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 347
The summit concluded smoothly.“Stellar, that was incredible! Even Dean Shaw was so impressed he offered you that opportunity. You absolutely can’t miss it!”“And when did you even publish that paper? None of us had a clue!”Back at the base, everyone buzzed with excitement, firing off questions one after another.Stellar pressed her lips together, then cast a slightly sheepish glance at Stephen beside her. “Honestly, it was thanks to him. He helped me find the fastest way to get it published.”“Ohh…” The group immediately exchanged knowing looks, teasing smiles spreading across their faces.They didn’t press further—just gave her the kind of look that said that they understood.“Stellar, I’ve got something else to handle, but we’ll definitely throw you a celebration soon!”“Same here! Got a bit of work piling up. You two take your time.”One by one, her colleagues slipped away.Before she could even say anything to stop them, Stephen chuckled softly beside her. “Your coworkers
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 346
Joy leaned in, curiosity sparking in her eyes. “Who is it?”Dean smiled and spoke slowly, “He used to be one of our senior engineers at the base—young, brilliant, and incredibly promising. His name is Stephen Ward.”Joy’s eyes widened in realization. “It’s him?”The crowd erupted with murmurs of admiration.“Ah, of course—it’s Mr. Ward. No wonder!”“I’m not even surprised. Men do tend to have the edge when it comes to technical work.”But just then, a calm voice rang out from behind them, slicing clean through the chatter.“It’s not me.”The entire room fell silent.Everyone turned to watch as Stephen walked through the crowd and stopped beside Stellar. His tone was steady as he looked toward Dean.“I’m not the author of that paper.”Dean blinked in surprise. “But… didn’t you call me before and ask to have it approved for publication? If it’s not yours, then whose is it?”“I only helped submit it,” Stephen said, his gaze landing on Stellar with clear admiration. “The true author is s
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 345
But as the doubtful stares around the room gathered on her, Stellar slowly curved her lips into a calm smile and said offhandedly, “Miss Shaw. Do you really believe this is a flaw?”“Isn’t it?” Joy narrowed her eyes, eager to see how she’d try to spin her way out.“That issue might’ve been considered a flaw in the past,” Stellar replied casually. “But not anymore. Not with what I’ve developed.”Joy let out a sharp laugh. “Oh please, now you’re just making things up to save yourself from getting humiliated. If you’re really that capable, why don’t you show us the solution?”The crowd seemed to agree—skepticism flashed across several faces, a few even looking at Stellar with thinly veiled contempt.But the next moment, she calmly reached into her bag and pulled out a folder, opening it with practiced ease. Her voice was steady.“I’ve already broken through this technical barrier. With the data in this set, the issue resolves itself. That’s why I said it’s not a problem at all.”All tho
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 344
“Miss Rivers, I’ve heard so much about you. It’s a pleasure to finally meet. Your proposal was recently featured in a national journal. I had the privilege of reading it. It was truly impressive…”It was clear that they were here for her reputation.Some looked at her with admiration, while others came with questions, subtly probing as if trying to see whether the stories about her brilliance were true or just hype.Thankfully, Stellar was well-prepared. She responded with ease, and the overall atmosphere remained warm and respectful until a sharp female voice suddenly cut through the hum of conversation.“Miss Rivers, I admire you as well. When you left SA and chose the more prestigious Starlight base, I was genuinely disappointed. It’s a shame we never got to be colleagues. That was my loss.”Joy stepped out from the crowd, all smiles.On the surface, it sounded like a compliment. But her words suggested Stellar had turned her back on SA in pursuit of fame, casting her decision in
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 343
After finding out she’d be attending the summit the next day, Stellar threw herself even deeper into her research.But she remained stuck on a key point and couldn’t crack it.While her colleagues gradually clocked out for the day, she stayed behind in the lab. After sending a quick message home to let her family know she was safe, she returned to her work.She kept at it until nearly midnight with no breakthrough. Just as she was starting to feel completely lost, her phone rang.She glanced at the screen and saw the call was from Stephen.She picked up his call in surprise.His deep, velvety voice came through the line. "Are you still at the base?"Stellar guessed he must’ve heard from her grandparents, so she didn’t hide it. "Yeah, I’m burning the midnight oil on a major project.""Then I’ll just borrow a few minutes. Can you come downstairs?"Caught off guard, she quickly made her way down and pushed open the main door.There, by the curb, stood Stephen—tall and steady like a
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 342
Now Stellar had gotten a taste of just how overbearing Stephen’s mother could be. If Grace was that tough on her own son, there was no way she’d dare face her in person.Seeing her resistance, Stephen’s expression dimmed slightly, but he didn’t push her. "Alright, I’ll take you home."He had enough patience to slowly win over the girl he liked.This time, Stellar didn’t turn him down.After getting home and taking a shower, she still felt a lingering sense of unease.Thankfully, the meeting didn’t happen. Who knows how awkward it could’ve been!Pushing those thoughts aside, she returned to the base the next day to continue working on her project.Because of her efforts, several investors had been brought in, and Stellar’s position at the base rose quickly.That morning, Rendell called her into his office to inform her of a new assignment."Stellar, there’s an important aerospace summit coming up. You’ve been working on that new project recently, right? Perfect timing. You’ll represe
