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Chapter 55
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As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 56
Her eyes gleamed with mockery and disdain, yet there was no surprise in them as if she always knew he was nothing but a fraud. Lilian and the others felt equally satisfied, their expressions filled with undisguised contempt as they looked at Alex. For a moment, his face burned red, as if he had just been slapped in public. Fury boiled inside him. Humiliated and enraged, he clenched his fists, ready to lunge forward and put Stellar in her place. But just then, a crisp, cool voice cut through the tension. "What’s all the commotion about?" Stephen strode over with unhurried steps, his tall frame casting an imposing presence. His sharp, sculpted features remained as cold as ever, his piercing gaze flicking over Alex with effortless indifference, as if he weren’t even worth acknowledging.Despite saying little, the sheer weight of his presence made Alex involuntarily shiver. The others exchanged glances, surprised. Some recognized him immediately, while others, knowing hi
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 57
There was something undeniably condescending about her tone. Lilian, ever the optimist, might not have picked up on it. But Stellar’s smile faded as she finally looked Vivian in the eye. "Even without someone backing me up, I wouldn’t stand by and let anyone insult my mentor without doing something about it." She wasn’t one to stir up trouble. But that didn’t mean she was afraid of it. Vivian’s expression darkened. It was a direct jab—calling her out for standing on the sidelines and making snide remarks instead of taking action. Just as she opened her mouth to retort, Simon stepped in before things escalated. "Alright, that’s enough. Since Alex is out of the way, let’s get back to work. We need to run the data." With that, Nathan, who had been silent the entire time, turned and entered the lab without another word. Lilian quickly grabbed Stellar’s arm and followed. Despite her irritation, Vivian had no choice but to do the same. Simon was the last to enter, c
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 58
Simon was always serious when it came to academics, and when he saw true talent, he never hesitated to give credit where it was due.Even Nathan, usually unreadable, had a flicker of admiration in his otherwise indifferent gaze.Vivian widened her eyes as she stepped forward, scanning the data carefully.It was flawless.No matter how hard she tried to find a flaw, there wasn’t a single mistake to nitpick.She was so confident just moments ago, insisting on switching tasks. And now, this data—so precise, so irrefutable—felt like the biggest slap in the face.Her expression twisted with discomfort."Well, no wonder. Geniuses really are built different," Lilian gushed, practically in awe, looking more and more like Stellar’s biggest fan.Vivian clenched her jaw, unable to stand the praise."To be fair, it’s probably thanks to Senior Ward’s teaching."It was a thinly veiled jab, implying Stellar’s skills weren’t her own but merely the product of someone else’s guidance.But this time, St
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 59
"Everyone was talking about you two back then."All the way up to graduation, when you abruptly gave up further studies and followed him straight into Moore Enterprises. Everyone thought you were finally getting what you wanted—to become Mrs. Moore."A faint tension settled over the group.The way she framed it made it sound as if Stellar had abandoned her academic career just to chase after a wealthy man.Vivian paused for a couple of seconds before adding, as if just remembering something,"Oh, but I did hear recently that the Moore family's heir is engaged to the Harlow family’s heiress. Stellar, you wouldn’t happen to be…"She trailed off deliberately, then widened her eyes with feigned regret."Oh no, did I just say something I shouldn’t have?"Her expression was one of mock remorse, but the flicker of triumph in her lowered gaze gave her away.Everyone present already picked up on the unspoken implication.She was suggesting that Stellar only returned to school because Percy dump
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 60
By the time dinner wrapped up, it was nearing 8 p.m. As Stellar and the others stepped out of the restaurant, they were met with a steady downpour. Most of them took a cab to get there. Since they all lived on campus, they planned to head back together, except for Stellar, who didn’t stay in the dorms. "You guys go ahead," she said quickly. "My place isn’t on the way. I’ll just call a ride on my own." Lilian hesitated, clearly worried. "Are you sure? I can wait with you—" "I’m feeling a little dizzy after drinking," Vivian cut in impatiently, rolling her eyes. "Can we just go? She’s a grown woman. I think she can manage calling a cab by herself." She bit down on the words “grown woman” with deliberate emphasis, her meaning clear. Stellar pressed her lips together, understanding the jab but choosing to ignore it. "But—" Lilian started, still reluctant. Stellar gave her a reassuring smile. "It’s fine. I’ll text you once I’m home." Only then did Lilian let out a smal
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 61
"Oh, right. Ashford University is hosting an academic symposium in a couple of days. If you're free, I can bring you along."At those words, Stellar’s usually calm eyes lit up with unmistakable interest.She wasn’t one to impose on Stephen, but she knew about this event.It was only held once a year, and the attendees were industry leaders from various fields—entry was strictly limited, and most people never got the chance to attend.Yet, Stephen was offering to take her.The opportunity was too rare to pass up.Tempted, she hesitated for only a second before asking, almost cautiously, "Really?"Catching the subtle spark in her gaze, a faint, almost imperceptible curve formed at the corner of Stephen’s lips.He gave a brief nod, responding with a low “Mm."He added, "You should get ready beforehand, I’ll let you know when the time comes.""Thank you, Senior Ward. I really appreciate it."As she reached for the door handle, something else crossed her mind."Oh, by the way, about the hai
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 62
"Mom, what are you doing here? I’m heading out soon. Can we talk about this another time?"Percy assumed she was here to persuade him again to be nicer to Yvonne.He was beyond tired of hearing it.But to his surprise, Margaret’s expression was cold and stern."Percy, I need you to answer something honestly.""What is it?"Percy frowned, sensing something unusual.Margaret’s voice sharpened."Did you secretly give Stellar a huge sum of money when you broke up?""What?"For a second, Percy wondered if he’d misheard."Don’t play dumb with me!"Margaret tossed her handbag onto the couch and sat down with a huff, arms crossed, her face full of frustration."Stellar is now a co-owner of Élan Atelier! Do you even know what kind of place that is? It took me forever to even hear about that private boutique. “Every single piece they sell is handcrafted and exclusive—you can’t just walk in and buy something, no matter how much money you have! And now, I can’t even get through the door!"Percy s
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 63
So, Stellar did owe him something.That thought settled him, easing the frustration that had been gnawing at him."I got it, Mom. I’ll find some time to ask her myself."…Meanwhile, Stellar had just arrived at Élan Atelier with Mary in tow.The moment the manager spotted her, he immediately came forward to greet her."Oh my, what brings the co-founder of our company here today?"Mary's eyes widened in shock. Co-owner?!Stellar pressed her lips together, looking a little embarrassed."Could you bring me the latest batch of design drafts I sketched?" Yesterday, after talking to Mary, she’d learned that her grandmother loved finely crafted hairpins, while her grandfather had a deep appreciation for tea.Since Élan Atelier specialized in handcrafted and custom-made luxury pieces, they carried more than just hair accessories. There were also handcrafted clay teapots and other artisanal pieces.And as luck would have it—Stellar could make both."Of course, Miss Rivers," the manager respon
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As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 100
Stellar could hear the malice dripping from the reporter’s words.She took a deep breath.This incident hadn’t been a secret back then.But after all these years, for someone to bring it up now—so deliberately, so calculated—it was obvious this wasn’t just a casual question.Someone planned this.But they seemed to have forgotten one thing—she was no longer the same Stellar Rivers from back then.Her therapist had told her once that running from the past would never free her from it. The only way to take back control was to face it head-on.She refused to let this moment break her.She had rebuilt her life from the ground up.She was not that helpless girl anymore.And yet, the weight of the stares and the judgment seeping into the air had pulled her straight back into the nightmares of her past.She tried to speak, tried to force out a response.But no sound came.The memories clawed at her, her stomach twisting violently, her body betraying her despite every ounce of resolve she had.
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 99
"Our company intends to use this land to build a luxury resort. It will attract international travelers and serve as a hub for cultural exchange, creating a bridge between domestic and global tourism…"Mark listened carefully, nodding subtly in approval.It was a solid proposal.Then, it was Brighton Group’s turn.Stephen glanced at Stellar, silently signaling for her to take the lead.She raised a brow, momentarily surprised by his level of trust.But since he was giving her the stage, she wasn’t going to shy away from it."Our plan is to develop this land for the advancement of aerospace technology. It will serve as a research and development facility, contributing to the nation’s space exploration efforts and scientific innovation."Mark sat back, absorbing her words.Her explanation was articulate and her vision was ambitious.There was something remarkable about a young woman with a mind set on shaping the futureAt that moment, she wasn’t just presenting a project; she was illumi
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 98
But after the initial shock, jealousy hit her like a wave.Why?Why did Stellar, a woman she saw as nothing more than discarded leftovers, always have powerful men standing by her side?What did she have that Yvonne didn’t?Her gaze instinctively shifted to Percy.No matter how she measured it—looks, intelligence, presence—Percy was leagues below the man standing in front of them now.Even fate seemed to favor Stellar.Percy, meanwhile, stood frozen in disbelief.He had never imagined that this man before him was Brighton Group’s CEO, the industry’s most sought-after visionary.However, Stephen paid them no mind. Instead, he arched a brow, his voice carrying an effortless, almost lazy confidence."If Stellar were really trying to latch onto someone, she wouldn’t need to look elsewhere—I’m right here. She doesn’t even spare me a glance, so why would she be interested in him?"His remark left Yvonne, Percy, and Stellar speechless.The murmurs in the crowd only grew."He’s got a point. W
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 97
Stellar almost laughed.The sheer audacity.How could Percy possibly think he was better than Stephen?How shameless did he have to be to say something like that with a straight face?Just as she was about to respond, a sharp voice interrupted."Percy?"Percy turned, only to see Yvonne approaching.She was clutching a wine glass tightly, though her expression remained composed on the surface.Inside, she was seething.The heiress of the Seaton family, one of the owners of this very land, was part of her social circle. That was how she had gotten an invitation to tonight’s event.But the last thing she expected was to find Percy here—and worse, standing so close to Stellar, locked in a heated exchange.They appeared to be laughing and chatting.Had he deliberately turned down her invitation just so he could come here for Stellar?Had he lied about his business meeting?Fury burned through her veins, but she swallowed it down, composing herself as she made her way over."Percy?" she cal
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 96
Percy instantly recognized the man standing beside Stellar—it was the same guy he had seen with her at the private dining restaurant that night.So, they did know each other.Was she here with him?That thought alone sent a deep sense of unease surging through him, an almost suffocating sense of urgency.His fists clenched tightly at his sides.Not long ago, she was always the one by his side, helping him secure project after project.But now?Now, she stood beside someone else, acting as if he were a stranger.They were once so close, yet at this moment, they had never felt farther apart.A desperate urge clawed at Percy, compelling him to reach for something—anything—before it slipped away completely.He stepped forward, about to say something to Stellar—But before he could, the host of the event, Mark Seaton, made his way toward the crowd.Percy swallowed back his impulse and forced himself to stay put."Welcome, esteemed guests. I know you’ve all gathered here for the same reason—
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 95
Stellar flinched, startled, and quickly turned around, only to find Stephen standing beside her. She had no idea when he even got there. "Senior…" She blinked at him suspiciously. "You heard everything just now?" "Hmm. I happened to be in the restroom." Stephen’s tone was casual as if it were just a coincidence. Stellar’s eyes gleamed with a mischievous glint. "Well, I guess you saw through me." She let out a small chuckle. "I was bluffing to see how she’d react. Turns out, she folded instantly. If I actually had proof, I wouldn’t have let her off so easily." Someone who couldn’t focus on their research and instead schemed to sabotage others’ work wasn’t worth any sympathy. Just having her step down from the project while still keeping her spot as a graduate student was already giving her more mercy than she deserved. "Senior, do you think I was too harsh?" Her eyes shimmered with mischief, not at all apologetic. Instead of coming across as cunning, it made he
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 94
Vivian’s palms were slick with nervous sweat, but she kept up her bravado, voice sharp despite the tremor beneath it."You have no right to accuse me! I didn’t tamper with the data. You're making baseless accusations!"Stellar arched a brow, her gaze sharp enough to cut through any pretense."Oh? So, you’d rather go public with this? Let me lay out the evidence for everyone to see?"Her voice was calm, almost amused, but the weight behind it was undeniable."You really think I’d confront you without proof? You really think your plan was flawless?"Or do you honestly believe someone like Alex Porter wouldn’t throw you under the bus the second things got tough?"Three pointed questions—each one hitting harder than the last.Vivian’s confidence crumbled as cold sweat trickled down her back.She had been so sure her plan was airtight, convinced she had covered her tracks.But Stellar had unraveled it all so effortlessly.And Alex? That idiot would sell her out in an instant if someone pres
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 93
"What’s that supposed to mean? Why are you talking like that?" Lilian frowned, clearly puzzled. "I’m just stating the facts. Is there a problem with that?" Vivian shrugged innocently, but her tone carried the same irritating smugness. Lilian couldn’t stand that attitude. Simon, ever the peacemaker, sighed and stepped in. "Alright, both of you, let’s just drop it and keep working." "We’ve been at this for hours. If it’s not working, maybe we should just cut our losses," Vivian said flatly, dousing any lingering hope."If this approach isn’t yielding results, we should consider switching to another—" Before she could finish, Stellar suddenly spoke up, her voice calm but firm. "Hold on. I’m about to get the answer." Vivian’s brows furrowed slightly. Then she let out a soft, condescending scoff. "We’ve all been working on this for hours with no solution, but now, suddenly, after sitting there mumbling to yourself, you think you can solve it?" "You—!" Lilian’s tempe
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 92
As if the endless demands weren’t frustrating enough, they were also draining his finances.The moment Percy so much as suggested a compromise, Yvonne would throw a tantrum, playing the spoiled heiress to perfection."If you can’t meet my expectations, I’ll tell my uncle and the others that you can’t even afford this. Let’s see how he deals with you then."Percy knew all too well how much the Harlow and Jonathan’s family doted on her. They would bend over backward to satisfy her every unreasonable demand, and somehow, he would still end up being the villain in the story.If word of this reached his father, he’d be in for a lecture, and if it caused any trouble for the engagement, it could even hurt the company.His past missteps had already cost Moore Enterprises several partnerships, leaving the business on shaky ground.At this point, he couldn’t afford any more turbulence.And Yvonne, of course, had figured that out. That was why she was pushing her limits, knowing full well he ha
