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Chapter 81
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As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 82
Stephen shut his eyes tightly, but he couldn’t erase the lingering image from his mind. He exhaled deeply, lowering his gaze as he tried to collect himself. It took him a while before he finally reopened the door. When Stellar stepped out in her lab coat, she was surprised to see him still standing there. Their eyes met for a brief moment before he hesitated, then spoke up. “I didn’t know you were inside. I wasn’t trying to intrude… I’m really sorry.” For the first time, his apology was sincere, his gaze avoiding hers as if he were trying to escape something. Stellar had felt a little embarrassed at first, but the feeling faded quickly. It wasn’t as if losing a little modesty would cost her anything. Besides, she was wearing a camisole underneath. She wasn’t the type to make a big deal out of something like this or expect responsibility over a fleeting moment. Still, his reaction was far stronger than she had expected. Was he… embarrassed? She shook off the thoug
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 83
"I'm just excited Think about it—you almost let your talent go to waste! Luckily, you came to your senses. “Don't worry, I’ll personally help you apply for a patent on this research. The world needs to know that this achievement belongs to you." Though the project was a team effort, Stellar was undoubtedly the driving force behind it. She had led the entire process from start to finish. Victor’s enthusiasm was unmistakable—he truly cherished and valued talent. Stellar felt a wave of emotion swell in her chest. "Thank you, Professor. This time, I won’t let you down." This newly developed material was exactly what she promised for Shane’s project enhancement. With the results in hand, the contract negotiations should be finalized soon. …Early the next morning, Stellar called Shane and arranged to meet at the Brighton Group’s office. During the meeting, she provided him with a portion of the material. Though the patent application was still in progress, the feasibility
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 84
Stellar paused for a moment, sensing an unusual warmth in Shane’s demeanor. A strange feeling crept up on her—it almost felt like… a date. But she quickly brushed the thought aside, telling herself she was overthinking it. Lowering her gaze to the menu, she raised a brow in mild surprise. "The dish names are definitely unique. I’ll go with ‘Veiled Blossoms in Mist,’ ‘Crisp Emerald Leaves,’ and this one—‘White Truffle Delight.’ That should be good. You can pick the rest." She passed him the menu. Shane glanced at it briefly before adding, "I’ll include one more—‘A Worthy Pursuit.’ The name has quite the meaning behind it, don’t you think?" As he spoke, his gaze lingered on her, his deep-set eyes carrying a touch of intrigue. Stellar’s mind immediately recalled an old line of poetry: “A true gentleman seeks a worthy match, drawn to beauty and grace.”Her chest tightened slightly. Was she reading too much into this again? "It sounds… fine," she said vaguely, not wanting
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 85
It was the first real setback she had ever encountered in her life. Stellar was still courteous enough to spare his pride. "This dish is actually pretty good, Mr. Howe. You should try it too." Although the price was steep, the taste was undeniably fresher and more flavorful than other restaurants. Shane assumed she was just being nice, but after taking a couple of bites, he had to admit it was indeed delicious. His emotions were a rollercoaster—soaring one moment and sinking the next.Determined to regain his footing, he shifted the conversation back. "We were just talking about relationships. Miss Rivers, do you have anyone special in your life right now?" Stellar’s hand paused for a moment. She knew she wouldn't be able to avoid this. From all the subtle gestures and careful probing earlier, she had already guessed that Shane was interested in her. He wasn’t just treating her as a friend—he wanted something more. She decided to be straightforward. "No, I don't." Sha
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 86
He looked at the young woman in front of him, the admiration in his eyes deepening."Hmm, I have no doubt in your abilities, Miss Rivers. But there’s no need to be so formal—just call me by my name.""Alright, then you can call me Stellar. I’ll be heading off now."She waved at him and quickly walked away.Shane watched her retreating figure, unable to tear his gaze away for a long moment.A storm of emotions swirled inside him, an unshakable frustration lingering in his chest.Without hesitation, he pulled out his phone and called Stephen."Hey, got time tonight? Even if you don’t, make some. Considering I just landed you a major deal, the least you can do is come have a drink with me."There was a rare hint of dejection in his tone.Stephen paused, setting his pen down before teasing, "What’s this? Did you just get your heart broken?"The other end of the line fell into an awkward silence.A few seconds later, Shane huffed, clearly annoyed."Are you coming or not?"Now, Stephen was g
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 87
"I've already said—I won’t accept an arranged marriage. I’ll put an end to it." Stephen's tone turned colder, and for a brief moment, a sharp glint flashed in his eyes. It was obvious that he had nothing but disdain for the idea of a forced engagement. Sensing his displeasure, Shane quickly backed off from the subject and changed the topic. "Alright, let’s not talk about your love life. Help me out instead. I don’t want to give up on her just yet. What do you think I should do?" For once, his expression was completely serious. Stephen could tell he wasn’t joking around this time. Dropping his usual sarcasm, he responded in a calm, matter-of-fact tone. "Gift her something. Women love grand romantic gestures. If you want a real chance, you need to be prepared." Shane nodded in agreement, not the least bit bothered by the fact that he was taking relationship advice from a man who had never been in one himself. In fact, he thought Stephen made a lot of sense. "Wait—" A
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 88
"No need to trouble yourself. I can take the elevator on my own." Stellar almost felt like all of this was a bit too over-the-top. She accepted the access card, and as soon as she stepped toward the elevator, the doors slid open for her. Stepping inside, she let her thoughts wander. What kind of person was Brighton Group’s CEO? Was he tall? Short? Given that he had built an empire in just a few years and gathered some of the best talents under his wing, she figured he was probably a middle-aged man in his forties or fifties. At that age, he was likely past his prime—maybe even overweight, sporting a beer belly and thinning hair. No matter what, she had to remain respectful and professional. First impressions were everything. As she mentally prepared herself, the elevator doors quietly closed. Meanwhile, on the top floor— Shane tugged at his bow tie, his legs bouncing with restless energy as he sat on the edge of his seat. "Stephen, are you sure this plan is going t
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 89
"Wait!"Stephen’s gaze darkened slightly as realization set in.A memory surfaced—the fleeting glimpse he’d caught of a familiar figure in the elevator that day.At the time, he’d assumed it was a mistake. It clearly wasn’t.Pressing his lips together, he felt an unfamiliar sensation stir within him.So, she was the one who had Shane completely enthralled?His brows furrowed slightly, but he still wanted to confirm it."You’re here to meet Brighton Group’s CEO?"Stellar turned at his words, a sudden, almost absurd thought flashing through her mind."Wait… don’t tell me you’re—"Stephen gave a small nod.The middle-aged executive she had imagined, the balding, beer-bellied businessman, had just been replaced by none other than her senior from university?Her brain momentarily short-circuited.Stephen let out a quiet sigh. He should have figured this out sooner.So, she was the brilliant mind behind the CM material.And the very same person working with Riverside Corporation all this ti
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As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 392
It took Stellar a moment before she finally spoke, disbelief lacing her voice. “Wait, doesn’t that mean she basically admitted to covering up crimes? Isn’t that illegal too?”“Exactly, but I guess she’s not the sharpest tool in the shed. She kept insisting it was all Tori’s doing—that she and her son were innocent.”Suzy let out a snort. “I’ve never seen anyone exposing their own son’s crimes on camera and dragging themselves down with him. “No wonder Eddie turned out the way he did. With a mom like that cheering him on, it’s no surprise he grew up thinking he could do whatever he wanted. “The apple really doesn’t fall far from the tree.”Stellar felt a wave of complicated emotion. The woman she remembered to be gentle, kind, and full of warmth suddenly appeared like a total stranger.Had it all been an act?She let out a soft sigh.Suzy must have picked up on her silence, because her voice turned more soothing. “Stellar, don’t let this weigh on you. That mother and son duo were hid
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 391
“I just came back to grab a file,” Claude said, his tone laced with suspicion. “I thought I heard you talking to someone just now?”“Nope!” Stellar answered quickly, not daring to admit the truth.Claude studied her for a moment, then his expression eased. “Stellar, I’m not against you dating, Just remember, men are mostly just entertainment. Don't get too serious. If it starts going south, cut your losses and move on. The Rivers family will always have your back.”Stellar twitched at the corner of her mouth and thought, “Uncle Claude, are you seriously telling me to be a heartbreaker?”“That doesn’t sound like a good idea,” she said hesitantly.“Why not? Your happiness is what matters most. If anyone makes you uncomfortable, kick them to the curb. Simple as that. “Of course, we’ll also keep an eye on things and make sure no one messes with you.”There was a sharp glint of calculation in Claude’s eyes.Stellar could only offer a wry smile.She hadn’t even started dating yet, and even
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 390
Stephen let out a quiet sigh and turned, ready to leave.“Do you like Stellar?” A sweet voice chimed in beside him.Xavier turned in surprise, puzzled as he looked at the young woman. “You are…?”“I’m Stellar’s friend, Lilian Yates.”She was supposed to be in the gallery that day, but a last-minute delay with her project caused her to arrive just in time to catch the end of the scene.And what she saw in Xavier’s eyes that were filled with admiration, reluctance, and a trace of sorrow, she knew Xavier had feelings for Stellar.“I…” Xavier was caught off guard, unsure how to respond.Lilian cut him off with a grin. “You’re the legendary attorney she always talks about, right? Perfect. I was wondering if I can ask you for a favor?”“What kind of favor?” he asked, instinctively curious.She leaned in and whispered something in his ear, her voice barely audible. When she pulled back, she added softly, “But you have to promise to keep it between us.”Xavier paused, considered it, then nod
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 389
At that moment, Eddie stared at Tori—her face all innocent, but a flicker of triumph flashed in her eyes.Surrounded by the reporters' jeers and public outrage, rage surged in him like a tidal wave.His last shred of control snapped.In the blink of an eye, he pulled a box cutter from his coat pocket and drove it hard toward Tori’s chest.“Die!”Her eyes flew wide, that faint smirk still frozen on her face as pain overtook her. She clutched her chest and crumpled to the ground.For a second, the crowd stood frozen in disbelief.Then chaos exploded.“Someone call security!” “He stabbed her! He actually stabbed her!”Shrieks tore through the air, sharp enough to split the sky.People scattered in every direction.As the crowd parted, Stellar’s figure came into view.Eddie, now completely unhinged, turned on her—blade dripping red, madness in his eyes.“This is all your fault!”Stellar reacted in a flash. She had some basic self-defense training, but she’d never faced a live blade befo
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 388
Xavier rose to his feet, voice clear and steady. “Your Honor, my client, Ms. Stellar Rivers, is a gifted and accomplished novelist. Yet she has been the victim of identity theft and public defamation at the hands of the defendant, Eddie Palmer…”He laid out the facts with composed conviction, then switched on the projector to display a series of damning evidence.They were screenshots of Eddie’s defamatory posts on social media, malicious comments under Stellar’s novel, financial records of suspicious transactions—each piece adding weight to the case.“During this time, my client endured repeated harassment and psychological distress, while the defendant reaped the rewards—standing on her name, using her reputation, and profiting off her fanbase. “We request a criminal conviction, along with appropriate compensation.”With that, Xavier concluded his argument.The defense attorney then slowly stood. Everyone expected him to offer a rebuttal, but instead, he delivered a bombshell.“Wha
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 387
When she saw the caller ID, Tori felt like she’d just grabbed onto the last lifeline she had. “Hello…?”“I’ve heard about your situation,” said the voice on the other end. It was heavily disguised through a voice changer, making it impossible to tell if it belonged to a man or a woman. “If you don’t want everything to fall apart, I might have a solution.”“What is it? Please… you have to help me,” Tori responded quickly.It was this mysterious person who had advised her from the start, coaxing her step by step into targeting Suzy and Stellar. Without them, she never would’ve come this far.She still had no idea who the person was, but she knew they were powerful.Even after breaking up with Zayden, she managed to remain untouchable in the industry, all thanks to this person pulling strings behind the scenes. She’d long suspected they were someone with a grudge against Suzy or Stellar—maybe both.But as the saying goes, “The enemy of my enemy is my friend.”And right now, they were t
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 386
At that, Eddie clenched his jaw, then spat out a vicious threat. “Then I’ll go public with everything you did back then.”Back when they were close, he’d known all the humiliating details—how desperately Stellar had chased after Percy, how much she gave without ever asking for anything in return, and all the painful history with the Harlow family. Now, he was trying to use it all as a weapon against her.He thought that would be enough to shake her. That she'd panic, beg him not to bring it up. After all, those were old wounds—raw and bloody things she once tried so hard to bury. If they were dragged into the light now, it would be like tearing open skin that had only just begun to scar.But on the other end of the line, her voice was startlingly calm.“Go ahead. Say whatever you want.”Whatever she’d been through, it was still part of her story—a path she had walked herself.Now, she could face it without shame. She’d come to terms with her past, and she valued the life she had no
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 385
Thanks to Larry’s heads-up, Stellar found the burner account and, sure enough, the screen was filled with venomous posts. The comment section was swarming with replies piling on, criticizing her from every possible angle.It was hard to tell whether they were paid trolls or just people riding the wave of attention.The more she scrolled, the colder her expression became.She could guess why this was happening.It was because she hadn’t responded yesterday.They probably assumed she was backing down. So now, they were doubling down, even bolder than before.From the tone and habits in the posts, she was almost certain it was Eddie behind it.“I’ll take care of it, Larry. Don’t worry,” she assured her editor.After hanging up, Stellar immediately called Julian.“Uncle Julian, do you know any media firms in the industry that handle troll management? I need your help with something.”After hearing her explanation, Julian agreed right away and quickly made the arrangements.Half an hour la
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 384
“This time, they’re finally going to get what they deserve.”As Stellar said it, something seemed to click. Her eyes widened slightly as she turned to Stephen.“You… how did you even know about the comments on my novel page? Don’t tell me…”In that instant, a thought flashed through her mind like lightning.“You’re Wind Charm, aren’t you?”Stephen raised an eyebrow, the corner of his lips lifting into a slow, knowing smile.“You're only asking about this now?”That alone was as good as a confession.Stellar stared at him, stunned and at a loss. “You actually created a whole account just for me? No wonder you only followed my work. “You don’t even read novels, do you? You really didn’t have to go that far.”Thinking about his thoughtfulness and his quiet care, Stellar realized he’d done so much that it left her overwhelmed.“Your writing is incredible. Why wouldn’t I read your work? Besides…”Stephen eased off the gas, casting a soft glance her way. “Weren’t you the one who said a re
