Mag-log inShare
Chapter 290
Kaugnay na kabanata
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 291
Percy stared blankly at the stack of cash in his hands. A mere hundred dollars.When the realization sank in, he shot up from the ground, his face twisted in rage as he yelled at Stellar’s retreating figure."Stellar! No matter how much you hate me, how much you despise me, you didn’t have to humiliate me with a hundred dollars!"He had thought his pride had already been trampled into the dirt.Only now did he realize that there was an even greater humiliation.Stellar had just reached her car door when she heard his outburst. She turned back slightly, her expression calm."Have you forgotten? When I was at my lowest, you tossed me a hundred dollars and told me it was hard-earned money—that I should be grateful and not take my so-called good life for granted."In reality, at that time, she had just completed a major project for Percy’s company, securing a ten-million-dollar deal.Before the project was finished, Percy had praised her endlessly, calling her the company’s greatest asset
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 292
After hanging up, Stellar felt a renewed sense of clarity.The next day, she arrived smoothly at Starlight Aerospace.Inside the designated interview room, she found herself face-to-face with a man dressed in a work uniform. His posture was upright, his steps steady.He was clearly a man of discipline."I’m Rendell Bishop, one of the directors here," he introduced himself, his voice brisk and no-nonsense. "I’ve reviewed your background and experience. No need for small talk—let’s get straight to it. You have one hour to complete the test. If your answers are satisfactory, you pass."Rendell was clearly a man of action. Without another word, he handed her the test papers and started the timer.Stellar appreciated the straightforward approach. Wasting no time, she sat down and got to work.Minutes ticked by, the room filled with nothing but the sound of her pen scratching against the paper.Meanwhile, in the monitoring room, a sudden commotion broke out among the staff."This is bad!
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 293
Stellar waited for about half an hour before the door opened again. This time, Rendell entered with a group of students and announced the good news to her. "Congratulations, Miss Rivers, you’ve successfully passed the interview." A spark of joy lit up in Stellar’s heart. "Does that mean I can start my internship at Starlight Aerospace?" "No…" Rendell shook his head. Seeing the confusion in her eyes, he smiled broadly. "You won’t need an internship. From today onward, you’re officially hired as an engineer at our base." Stellar was momentarily stunned, unable to believe it. She had worked tirelessly at the SA Aerospace Base, yet she hadn't even completed her internship there. But after just one interview here, she was directly hired? Noticing her thoughts, the others chimed in. "Miss Rivers, don’t doubt yourself. You’re incredibly smart. Solving a problem like that in just an hour proves your capabilities."Only fools would overlook talent like yours. That’s their l
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 294
"Senior, we finally got to meet after so long. Over the years, I’ve missed so many chances to celebrate your birthday and special occasions. “I already regret it enough—please, let me make it up to you, okay?" Zayden pleaded with a pitiful expression, looking like a puppy wagging its tail, making it hard to refuse. In the end, Stellar had no choice but to accept. "Stellar, I only just found out you passed the interview, so I didn’t have time to prepare anything…" Not wanting to be outdone, Keith stepped forward. "So, I only managed to bring a bottle of wine. Let's celebrate together tonight. I hope you like it." It was… a bottle of Romanée-Conti. Stellar’s mouth twitched as she wordlessly accepted it, a bit helpless. "Stellar…" When it was Stephen’s turn, her eyelid twitched even harder, fearing he might outdo them with an even more extravagant gift. Everyone else also held their breath, watching him closely. The next second, Stephen handed her a large box. "Open
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 295
Stellar's lips twitched sharply.She suddenly slammed the table and forced a smile. "Alright, since you three have so much to talk about, why don’t you just sit in a row?" The three men were speechless.Under Stellar’s undeniable authority, they wisely shut up and obediently sat side by side. She had to admit that once they quieted down, they formed quite the visually appealing lineup of handsome men. After dinner, the group played games together, and it wasn’t until past eleven that everyone finally started leaving. Before heading out, Zayden took the chance to lean in close and seriously told her, "Senior, if anyone at Starlight Aerospace ever bullies you or if you run into any trouble, remember to come to me first. “I’ll have your back, just like you did for me when we were kids." A warm feeling spread through Stellar’s heart. She couldn’t help but reach out and ruffle his hair. "Thanks, junior. I will." Zayden’s smile deepened. Taking advantage of her distraction, he
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 296
Joy’s supporters were quick to defend her, throwing in sneering remarks along the way. A flicker of satisfaction flashed in her eyes as she basked in their flattery. Then— "Bad news, Ms. Shaw!" An assistant rushed in, looking panicked. "The results just came back for the modified aircraft data you submitted a few days ago. It’s all wrong." Joy froze. The engineers who had just been singing her praises also went stiff with shock. There were data errors? How was that possible? The proposal had been solid. Unless the plan was only viable under Stellar’s oversight, and without her handling the data, no one else could execute it properly? A chilling thought surfaced in Joy’s mind. Stellar’s parting words echoed in her mind: “I just hope, when the time comes, you won’t come begging me for help.”The same realization dawned on everyone else. Feeling awkward, regretful, and conflicted, they exchanged uneasy glances before shifting their gaze to Joy.No one said anything
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 297
Rendell continued explaining, "A large group of investors will be attending, and they’ll be deciding their investments based on our performance. “We’ll be sending a few senior engineers to participate, but if anyone has recommendations, now’s the time to speak up."The moment he finished, a hand shot up."I nominate Stellar Rivers."Stellar was caught off guard. "I’m still new. I don’t think I qualify for something like this.""But your skills speak for themselves! We need to show SA Base what they lost out on when they let you go—that’s their loss, not ours.""Exactly! I second that!"More voices joined in, hands raising in support.Seeing the overwhelming agreement, Rendell nodded. "Alright, we’ll have Stellar join us. No pressure, just do your best."Stellar felt a wave of gratitude. Since she was going, she was determined to prepare well.…At 3:00 PM, Stellar arrived at the event venue and immediately noticed Joy on stage, confidently holding a microphone as she spoke about the
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 298
There was a biting sarcasm hidden in her words. Stellar's expression cooled. So now that Joy had gotten rid of Stellar, she no longer bothered to pretend, letting her hostility show outright."But…" Joy's tone suddenly shifted, her lips curling in amusement. "Starlight Aerospace made the worst mistake by sending a rookie like you to give a speech. “That unrealistic research of yours must have scared off so many potential investors! I bet they’re regretting it now." The glee on her face was unmistakable. Stellar arched a brow and shot back, "I can’t say for sure if Starlight will regret it, but having someone like you, who steals others' achievements, as part of SA Base? Now that is truly disgraceful." Joy’s expression darkened instantly, her jaw clenching. "Stellar, I’d think twice before speaking if I were you." "Did I say anything untrue?" Stellar let out a soft chuckle before adding, "Then again, it makes sense. With your limited abilities, you couldn’t solve the prob
Pinakabagong kabanata
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
