"Sirena!" called Elda, running toward Sirena, who was napping in her favorite spot, resting her head against a shady tree trunk."Sirena, wake up! It's urgent!" Elda said, gently tapping Sirena's shoulder until she opened her eyes."What is it?" Sirena asked, frowning in confusion, still half-asleep."Look at this!" Elda showed her phone screen. On it was a picture of Sirena kissing a mysterious man inside a car. The camera clearly captured Sirena's face, but the man's face was blurry and unrecognizable."Do you know that because of this photo, the entire campus is in an uproar? They're claiming you're some sugar daddy's kept woman!""What?" Sirena gasped, utterly shocked.She sat up straight, her face turning pale with panic. "Are you serious, Elda?" she asked, grabbing the phone from her friend's hand to get a closer look at the picture. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment and confusion."I'm serious, Sirena! Everyone's talking about it. Some are even placing bets on who the myste
Bruk!"Is this how you behave now, Siren?!" Ronald asked firmly, his sharp gaze piercing through."What do you mean?" Sirena asked, frowning in confusion."How much money do you need? Do you want branded goods or a car? I can give you all that. Why would you stoop so low to become some old man's mistress?" Ronald asked, clearly upset.Sirena stared coldly at the man in front of her, feeling both angry and hurt. She clenched her fists, trying to suppress the pain gnawing at her chest. Her sharp eyes locked onto Ronald's, filled with suppressed rage. "Ronald, you have no right to speak to me like that," she said, her voice cold but firm. "And what do you mean by accusing me like that?"Ronald scoffed. "I just want to know why you're involved with that old man. You must be after his money, right?" he accused.Sirena tried to hold back her emotions. "You know nothing about my life now, Ronald. Maybe you've forgotten, but you were the first person to leave me when I needed support."Ronald
James was working on his laptop when his phone began ringing incessantly. He glanced at the screen and sighed. This was the umpteenth time the call had come through.Finally, he answered."Yes, what is it?" James asked."James. Come home tonight. We’re having dinner together. Even Grandpa is expecting you," said the voice on the other end."Aren’t I just the discarded grandson and son? Why should I return to that house?" James retorted with irritation."James, why would you say that to Mom? No one has abandoned you!" the woman on the line protested.James fell silent, gripping his phone tighter. The voice belonged to his mother, and despite her tone being gentle, he could hear the weariness behind it."Mom," James took a deep breath. "All this time, it feels like everyone at home has chosen to ignore me. Grandpa, Dad... it seems like I’m not part of the family."There was a brief silence on the line. Then, his mother’s soft voice returned."James, you’ve misunderstood. We never meant
“James!” Zachari, James’s father, admonished sternly.James chuckled nonchalantly, his demeanor exuding indifference. “What? Do you think our family is incapable of betrayal? Even Grandpa isn’t guaranteed to stick to his word,” he replied with a tone that was both ambiguous and provocative, teetering between seriousness and jest.Malik sighed, attempting to ease the tension. “James, this isn’t about who can take advantage of the land. It’s about what’s best for our family and our collective future.”David smirked, interjecting, “At least James has a different perspective. Perhaps we should consider the risks involved, not just the potential profit.”Zachari, who had been silent until now, fixed James with a sharp gaze. “We’re here to discuss matters, not belittle each other. Think carefully about your decisions, James,” he said firmly, his disapproval evident.Leaning back in his chair, James shrugged. “Alright, I’ll think about it. But honestly, I’d rather focus on something more cer
James stared out the window of his room with a sharp gaze. In his hand was a glass filled with brown liquid—whiskey.He regretted visiting the Scout residence, as it only ended with him being asked to leave the company once again.James had been alienated from his own family since the arrival of Hannah, his stepmother.“James, you must remember. No matter how hard you try, you’ll always be the Scout family’s trash. Know your place, and never take what belongs to your brother, Alaric!” Hannah had threatened.In addition to her threats, James often endured abuse from that woman. Beatings, lashings, and even starvation—there was a time he didn’t eat for days and nearly died on the streets because of her cruelty.Recalling those moments, James closed his eyes, trying to contain the rage bubbling within him.In the Scout family, he was always belittled, undervalued, and forever overshadowed by David.Because of his mother’s low status, James had suffered countless abuses, insults, and humi
"Why do you keep staring at the bed? Don't tell me you’re thinking we’ll do it there, are you?" James teased, earning a sharp glare from Sirena."Pervert!" Sirena scoffed, her annoyance evident. As usual, James laughed it off casually."We could try it on campus, you know," James teased again, his tone playful."Stop teasing me, James," Sirena protested."Hehe... Alright. Actually, this room is a private space provided by the campus for me. I used to come here often and even stayed overnight, so I still use it from time to time," James explained, as if reading Sirena's thoughts."You can rest and relax here," James added."Oh…" Sirena nodded, feeling slightly more at ease after his explanation.James sat on a chair across from her, his gaze full of concern. "Are you feeling okay now, Sweetie?" he asked, his tone softer than usual.Sirena paused for a moment before nodding slowly. "Thank you, James. If it weren’t for you, I don’t think I could face this on my own."James let out a shor
“That woman is shameless around James. I can’t stand this!” Claudya exclaimed angrily.“She’s definitely trying to get the dean’s and Mr. James’s attention,” Ana added.“She’s desperate for money, seducing everyone she can. Even with a sugar daddy, she still dares to flirt with Mr. James!” Glade said with visible irritation.Claudya huffed, her face flushing with anger. “Honestly, I can’t take it! It’s as if she owns all the attention on this campus. When it’s clear that I’m the one who deserves to be close to Mr. James,” she said, trying to suppress her emotions.Ana nodded quickly, her dislike just as apparent. “You’re right, Claud. She’s sneaky. Every chance she gets, she makes sure to grab attention from the dean, especially Mr. James, like she’s the most charming person around.”Glade, who had been silent, finally spoke. “This is all because she needs money. That’s why she shamelessly flirts with everyone. Even with a sugar daddy, she’s still trying to steal Mr. James’s attention
James’s car stopped at a shopping mall, and Sirena stepped out, followed by James.“What are you doing, James?” Sirena asked, surprised to see him get out as well.“What else? I’m going to be your bodyguard,” James replied casually.Sirena snorted, putting on an annoyed face, though she felt slightly flattered deep down. "Bodyguard, huh? No need. I can take care of myself, James."Ignoring her protest, James strolled leisurely beside her. "I’m just making sure you’re safe, Sweetie. You never know who might try to mess with you."Rolling her eyes, Sirena let him walk with her."Wow, must be nice to live such a carefree life, Mr. James," Sirena teased."Of course. I have a lot of money," James replied confidently. "I can pay people to do my work."Sirena shot him a sarcastic smile. "Oh, so money is the reason you’re so relaxed? No wonder you have so much time to flirt with people."James chuckled, unfazed. "You’re absolutely right. Why stress when things can be easy?"Sirena sighed with
James' return from the dead after a plane crash and his rise as the CEO of the massive Scout family corporation have become the talk of the town. Adding to the sensation, the news of his stepmother, Hanah, and stepbrother, Aladric, being arrested has spread like wildfire, fueling the hunger of journalists eager for a scoop. The shocking revelation of James Scout being alive and back in power has stunned many.The news went viral, shaking the public. Even James' biological father, who had always remained silent, could only apologize in shame. He realized that he had utterly failed to protect his own family.As the world reeled from James Scout's return, the headquarters of Scout Corporation was flooded with reporters, all desperate to get a statement from the rightful heir. Cameras and microphones were thrust at anyone entering or exiting the building, while speculation on how James survived the plane crash spread rapidly.At the Scout family residence, James’ biological father, Leonar
As expected, today James confidently arrived with David and Vaul, his assistants, at the giant corporation owned by the Scout family. According to David, there was a meeting scheduled today with shareholders and the company's elite executives to appoint the new CEO.James, who was presumed dead, reappeared with irrefutable evidence of Aladric and his mother's crimes. Now, as the largest shareholder, James was set to take his rightful place as the company's director. His arrival was bound to shock everyone.As James stepped into the grand headquarters of Scout Corporation, the atmosphere inside was tense. Executives and shareholders had already gathered in the main conference room, awaiting the crucial moment—the appointment of the new CEO.David and Vaul followed closely behind James, their expressions unreadable, but their eyes sharp, as if prepared for any resistance."Everything is ready, sir," David whispered as they neared the entrance to the large meeting room.James nodded slig
"I'm home, Sweety." James entered the mansion at night, though it was not too late.He walked toward the dining area and noticed that the dinner remained untouched, even though dinnertime had long passed."Where is Siren? Has she not had dinner yet?" James asked one of the maids present."Madam is still in her room, Sir. She hasn’t come down at all," the maid replied, making James feel uneasy.James let out a slow sigh before climbing the stairs to their bedroom. Worry started creeping into his mind. Siren never skipped dinner.Reaching the door, James knocked gently. "Sweety, are you inside?"No response…James frowned before finally opening the door and stepping in. The bedroom lights were dim, and Siren sat at the edge of the bed, hugging her knees. Her eyes stared blankly at the window.James approached her and crouched down in front of her. "Hey, what's wrong?" he asked softly.Siren didn't answer immediately. It took her a few seconds before she finally whispered, "I'm just… tir
James narrowed his eyes. "What is he up to?"David placed his phone on the table, displaying a report. "There are signs of sabotage in one of our related projects. Several suppliers have suddenly withdrawn, and there are rumors that someone is trying to buy shares in companies affiliated with us."Romano growled. "Damn it, he's wasting no time."James gave a faint smile, completely unfazed. "Then let's give him a surprise."Romano's eyes narrowed. "What’s your plan?"James leaned back in his chair, exuding confidence. "If Leonard wants to play dirty, we’ll make sure he realizes he picked the wrong opponent."Romano smirked. "I like the way you think, James. But you know Leonard isn't someone who goes down easily."James met his gaze sharply. "Which is exactly why we need to act fast."David crossed his arms. "Do you have a strategy?"James picked up his phone, typed something, then looked at them. "First, we identify the suppliers who backed out and secure alternatives before the proj
On the other side, James, along with David and Romano, attended a major business meeting. The tender at stake was highly sought after by many entrepreneurs. James had already promised Romano that he would secure the contract.The meeting room was filled with prominent business figures, each with their own agenda and ambitions. James sat calmly in his seat, his expression unreadable as the tender committee representatives began presenting the highly contested project.Romano sat beside him, appearing relaxed, but his eyes were sharp and calculating. Meanwhile, David, seated across from them, seemed more at ease, occasionally glancing around the room to assess their competitors."James," Romano whispered. "We must ensure our proposal is the best. I don't want to lose this project."James nodded without turning his head. "Don't worry, Mr. Romano. I've prepared everything."The presentation session began. One by one, the participants took turns presenting their plans. James observed atten
"Good morning, Sister-in-law!" David entered the mansion with a bright expression."Oh? What brings you here so early?" Sirena asked, frowning."What else? I'm here to greet the newlyweds," he chuckled, making Sirena roll her eyes."Sit down, have breakfast," Sirena said, already seated at the dining table."Well, if you insist, I won’t say no," he laughed, taking a seat across from her."Ck... Always taking advantage of opportunities," James commented as he appeared, dressed neatly."Of course," David grinned as he flipped his plate over."You're all dressed up, James? Are you going somewhere?" Sirena asked, observing her husband."Yes, Sweety. I have a meeting and need to meet with some investors," James replied, sitting beside her."Will it take long?" Sirena asked, not wanting him to leave.James smiled slightly, sensing the reluctance in her voice. "I'll try to be back as soon as possible. Just a few hours, Sweety."Sirena sighed softly, stirring her food absentmindedly with her
"Ah, looks like my persuasion worked this time," James teased as Sirena opened her bedroom door, stepping out with a clearly annoyed expression."It better be good," Sirena muttered, walking ahead and leaving James behind."Of course. When have my dishes ever been bad?" James chuckled, following her.Sirena shot him a glare over her shoulder, eyes filled with doubt. "You're way too confident."James feigned offense. "Oh, Sweety! Do you still doubt my culinary skills? That really hurts my pride as a man."Sirena scoffed and crossed her arms. "We'll see. If it’s not good, you’re washing dishes for a whole week."James let out a low chuckle. "Deal. But if it is good, you owe me a reward."Sirena narrowed her eyes suspiciously. "What kind of reward?"James leaned in slightly, whispering in a playful tone, "Three rounds tonight. How about that?"Sirena’s face instantly turned red. "JAMES!" she shrieked, shoving him away.James just laughed in satisfaction. "Alright, alright. Let’s start co
"You're lying, aren't you? You must be lying to me, James," Jeslyn said, completely unwilling to accept James' statement."Why would I lie to you, Jes? There's no point in doing that," James replied."James, from the very beginning, our agreement was about my marriage to you!" Jeslyn snapped, her eyes brimming with anger."There was never such an agreement, Jeslyn!" James said, his frustration evident. Meanwhile, Sirena remained silent, but her gaze was filled with anger toward James, as if accusing him of being a liar. That alone made him feel pressured.Jeslyn stared at James, her eyes burning with fury and disappointment. "So, you're just going to throw me away? After everything we've been through?"James sighed, trying to suppress his frustration. "Jeslyn, I never promised to marry you. If you or your father assumed that, it was never my agreement."Jeslyn let out a bitter chuckle, tears threatening to spill from her eyes. "So, this was all just business to you? What am I to you,
"Welcome to my mansion," James said as he opened the massive door to his grand estate."Wow, so this is where you've been living all this time?" Sirena asked in awe."That's right. I bought this place because it's comfortable. Even though it's on the outskirts of the city, the view is breathtaking," James replied.Sirena stepped inside, her eyes immediately captivated by the mansion's magnificent interior. Tall walls adorned with classic carvings, a grand crystal chandelier casting shimmering light across the room, and elegantly arranged furniture created an air of luxury."You're right, this place is truly beautiful," she whispered, admiring every corner.James smiled slightly as he closed the door behind them. "I want you to feel comfortable here. From now on, this is your home too."Sirena turned to him, sensing something in his tone that made her feel... safe.Vaul, James' personal assistant, appeared from the hallway and gave a slight bow. "Welcome, Madam. The master bedroom has