Atlas noticed my anxious demeanor and comforted me with a pat on the back. “You can sleep first. I’ll see who it is.”He got up, put on his slippers, and approached the door. I couldn’t help but wonder who could be visiting so late at night. After all, we hadn’t lived here for quite some time. While contemplating, I got out of bed and straightened my sleepwear before leaving the bedroom.When I reached the landing, I peeked downstairs and saw Atlas opening the door. A figure then entered with a bottle of alcohol. It was Oliver. His lean silhouette appeared even more frail in the dim light. He looked desolated.Oliver forced a bitter smile when he saw Atlas, asking, “You’re still awake?”Atlas walked into the living room and said indifferently, “How can I sleep if you ring the bell like that? Why are you here?”I felt a pang of pity for Oliver. The once prominent figure had fallen so far. His former grace and eloquence were non-existent. I suspected he had lost his nightly destinat
Oliver's tone conveyed impatience. "I admit I was wrong, but Lauren won't give me a chance."I took a step forward, eager to confront him about where he went wrong. However, I found myself frozen. I suddenly realized I had lost my composure. I had no right to say certain things, especially since Oliver came to talk to Atlas.Atlas spoke tactfully, "I don't know how you hurt Lauren, but some words and actions are irreversible.”I had confided in Atlas about their issues before, and he understood the complexities between Oliver and Lauren. Irreversible was probably Atlas's advice to Oliver. I turned around to go back, realizing conversations between men might be more straightforward, and I couldn't interject. Besides, I believed Atlas would handle the talk well.I lay on the bed and pondered Lauren's grievances. I couldn't help but sigh and shake my head. I had to admire Oliver's deceased wife for being a formidable woman. She left a lasting impact, even in death.Perhaps Lauren w
For some reason, the lingering smell of blood in my memory was too intense, making the breakfast in front of me tasteless.After a few bites, I pushed away the breakfast. Atlas asked, "Why are you eating so little? Don't you like it?"I shook my head, looking at him. "It's not that I don't like it. I just can't eat."Instinctively, I reached for my temple and rubbed it.Atlas nervously grabbed my wrist. "What's wrong? Another headache?""Yeah, maybe I had a nightmare. I didn't sleep well. It'll pass in a bit. Don't worry!" I quickly perked up, fearing he would make a big deal out of it.Atlas quickly finished his meal and placed the used dishes in the sink.Just as he finished cleaning up, the doorbell rang again. I was about to answer it when he grabbed my arm. "I'll go!"Atlas strode toward the front door. I turned curiously, thinking about how noisy today had been. It seemed like the doorbell hadn't stopped ringing since Oliver came and rang it at midnight.I saw Atlas open
Atlas disdainfully remarked, "Let him sleep here. I don't think he'll be waking up anytime soon."I chuckled lightly. Who would have thought that the high and mighty tycoon of Foswood would end up passed out in my home?Oh well! We didn't have time to babysit him.Upon exiting the front door, I noticed the driver and a fleet of cars had been waiting. As our car pulled out first, I realized that Lauren and Ivanna's cars were also part of the convoy.I asked Atlas, "Why are they here too? Did you invite them?"Atlas's lips curled up as he embraced me, whispering, "They came on their own accord. I didn't arrange anything."My heart warmed instantly. Having such supportive friends was heartening. Our convoy headed towards the county clerk's office, and I couldn't help but feel touched and a bit embarrassed. Did we need such a grand procession just for a marriage certificate?Upon arriving, I asked Lauren and Ivanna, "Why did you all come?"Ivanna cheerfully replied, "What's the mat
I asked in bewilderment, "Who?"With a serious expression, Carol repeated, "Melvern is requesting a meeting."Hearing her repeat Melvern's name, I was genuinely surprised. I had a premonition that he would appear before me sooner or later.While Liora was joyfully bustling about during this period, he remained unusually quiet, which didn't make much sense."Let him in," I calmly said.Carol walked out and soon brought Melvern in.He looked dashing in a well-fitted suit. His eyes, however, were something I couldn't quite appreciate, almost repulsive.As he entered, I conducted myself professionally, stepping away from the desk and gesturing for him to sit.Seated at my desk, I asked, "Mr. Melvern, what brings you here?"I cut to the chase, as I had no intention of being polite with him. I did not know much about him, but based on his investment in Liora and his methods of seizing other companies, I could not form a favorable opinion of him. Moreover, the funds he invested w
However, his attitude left me unsure of how to proceed. I had no choice but to reach for the cup and sip from it.As a second-best option, I waited for him to continue.Sure enough, he said, "Ms. Chloe, you don't have to act so distantly. Since I've come to you for a collaboration, I have enough confidence to bring out a project for us to work on."His words did shock me a bit. He sounded a bit arrogant and self-assured.I smiled, set down the cup, and felt relief. "Well then, Mr. Melvern, why don't you share the details of the collaboration you have in mind.""I wanted to talk to you about the possibility of my independent development on acquired projects or land. Could I have your company handle the design and construction?"He sounded very confident. "Since I've just returned to Foswood, I can say I'm in a tough spot. Once I secure a project, I don't have the conditions for design and construction."Melvern's words flowed seamlessly, and he seemed genuinely sincere. "My retur
I nodded. "I have no intention of making things difficult for you, Mr. Melvern. However, this is Tanum Corporation's current situation. Since you've candidly assessed the situation, you must also know that this is the prerequisite for cooperation with Tanum Corporation.""I do." Melvern stared at my face, his emotions unclear. "Currently, there's a pressing project. I would like Tanum Corporation to design a plan for it, and I believe you will be interested.""Oh?" I intentionally expressed interest and asked, "Where is the project?"Melvern's smile was intriguing. He paused briefly, then said, "In Rivendell."I felt a sudden chill. Without thinking, I asked, "Rivendell?"Melvern smiled triumphantly. "Yes, Rivendell! Have you heard of it, Ms. Chloe?"I suddenly felt that I had overreacted."Yes," I responded to salvage my composure. "I heard rumors about a new development project in Rivendell but didn't pay much attention. After all, our current projects are in the consolidation
Rivendell was Atticus' top priority. He had given up every other opportunity, waiting patiently for this chance. The last time I saw him, he seemed confident, but Melvern's recent attitude indicated that he was certain of success.The more I thought about it, the more I realized this situation wasn't as simple as it seemed.Glancing at the time, I pressed the intercom button to summon Carol. After giving her a few instructions, I told her to get Lauren, who was starting work today. I would take her out with me as cover. If Melvern noticed my absence, it would not raise suspicion.It was better to be safe than sorry.Lauren soon appeared in my office. I looked toward her. "Come with me." I grabbed my bag and hooked her arm before heading out of the room.As Lauren and I took the elevator down, she asked, "Where are we going?""I want to see Atticus," I said.The elevator went straight down to the underground garage. I dialed Atticus' number, but once again, there was no answer. I
Four months later, at a hospital in Foswood.After being wheeled out of the delivery room, I saw my entire family waiting for me outside.My grandmother, supported by Hana, walked up to me, trembling. "Chlo, my Chlo, you've been through so much!"Beside my grandmother was a girl who looked a lot like me, standing silently beside my grandmother. She was the one who had been crafted to be my counterfeit.What was even more dramatic was that the DNA test results had revealed that she was actually my parents' daughter. When we found out, we cried tears of joy. It was truly heaven-sent. From then on, I gained another sister, who was like a twin to me.Feeling a little weak, I looked at her kind smile and said, "Grandma! It's two boys!""We all saw them. They’re very handsome and healthy! I can finally rest assured. My daughter has a life partner now," Ivanna said as she eagerly squeezed by my side.Everyone burst into laughter. Jared reached out his long arm and pulled her back. "Com
I closed my eyes, trying hard to recall my dreams. Usually, this scenario always appeared in my dreams, but now I couldn't remember any details.Atlas looked at me indulgently. "Take your time, don't rush. Your mom will help us."I took a deep breath, clearing all the distractions from my mind. I seemed to see my mom holding my hand, eagerly walking into the woods, looking around and at the treetops. As we ventured deeper into the woods, I asked, "Where are you taking me, Mom? The woods are so dark. I'm scared! Don't go in, Mom. There might be wild animals!""Don't be afraid. I'm here with you. We need to find the tallest tree.""Why do we need to find the tallest tree?""So you can remember!""But I can't walk anymore. I'm scared!""Go sit on that rock for a while. I'll come to you.""A rock," I murmured as I suddenly opened my eyes.I quickly stood up, searching for a place with rocks."Search where there are rocks," Atlas instructed the others.Everyone dispersed quickly,
I gazed at Atlas's anxious face, his features wavering before my eyes. "Chlo... tell me what's wrong," he said, concern etched on his handsome face. I glanced around the room, noticing all our loved ones present, their faces filled with worry, both inside and outside the door.Closing my eyes, I nestled into Atlas's embrace. I felt exhausted like never before. With a soft murmur, I confessed, "I'm... I'm okay." My head throbbed fiercely with an unbearable sensation."I'm fine," I repeated before settling back into his arms, still as a statue. In my ears, the echoes of my dream lingered.A team of medical staff rushed in. Atlas patted me gently. "Let the doctors check you out, sweetheart. You've been out for 48 hours! Let them examine you, okay?"He eased me onto the bed. After the doctors finished their examination, they briefed Atlas on the results.I drifted back to sleep, this time for real, unaware of anything.When I woke up again, the room was bright. Blinking, I look
Ernest was truly shaken by the sight before him, visibly trembling in fear."Everyone in the car, get out! You have one minute." After Atlas's words, several red dots appeared on the foreheads of the people inside the car.The driver immediately wet himself in fear, raising his hands. "N-No... please!..."As his hand reached for the door handle to exit the car, Kenzie shot him dead. I screamed in terror, but at the same time, the man in the passenger seat slumped over, also dead.However, that shot came from a sniper outside.The others were dumbfounded. The two men beside me immediately grabbed their heads and crouched down."Get out of the car!" Kenzie shouted loudly.The two men beside me acted as if they had been granted clemency, reaching to open the car door and shouting, "Don't shoot!" Then, they rolled out of the car, clutching their heads."Kenzie... release Chloe... save me!" Ernest wailed, his appearance filled with disdain.Kenzie's voice trembled. "Ernest...""
"I really haven't seen anything. What are you talking about? My dad never told me about this!" I gritted my teeth, holding onto this secret, but it was clear they already knew about the existence of the survey maps."If you want your children to live, you better tell me the truth. Otherwise, I won't hesitate to show you no mercy. Let me tell you the truth, I didn't plan on leaving alive!" Kenzie's admission was chilling."Then if I die, bitch, I'll take you down with me. Oh... no, scratch that. It'll be you and your children. Haha… So, tell me!" She hit me with the back of the gun."Kenzie, you know how Atlas feels about me. He wouldn't let me be harmed. Do you really think he'd tell me too much? About those maps you mentioned, not only do I not know, but I haven't even seen them. “Even if they exist, my father would only tell him..." I appealed to Atlas's protective feelings toward me, a reasonable plea since most men would be protective of their loved ones, especially Atlas.Ju
I adjusted my breathing and asked, "What do you want to know?"Although I asked this, my mind raced. "He's been back for some time now and has said too much... You've got to tell me, what exactly do you want to know?""Louis and Rory had a secret between them. What was it?" Kenzie said, her voice dripping with malice."They…" I deliberately gasped loudly, buying myself some time. I knew Atlas would come to rescue me. My priority was to protect my children."They... two of them had a... sizable sum of money..." Since that money was already in our hands, I thought it would be futile even if they knew.Kenzie completely released her grip and then shoved my head forward abruptly. My body plunged forward, but quick reflexes saved me as I grabbed onto the front seat, steadying myself."What money? How much?" Kenzie seemed very interested."The amount is significant, but I don't know exactly." I played coy with her. After all, everyone was interested in money matters.Of course, Kenzi
The screech of brakes pierced the air, and a gray car halted right in front of me. Instinctively, I stepped back, unable to discern the make of the car before two individuals leaped out and swiftly pulled me into the vehicle. Simultaneously, a panicked cry sounded from behind me, "Chlo…"Before I could even assess the situation inside the car, it bolted forward."What do you want? Who are you people?" I struggled and shouted.Suddenly, a hand reached out from behind, gripping my neck tightly, and a chilling voice whispered, "Enough."With just those words, I instantly recognized the person. The voice was all too familiar.I steadied my nerves and spoke with feigned calmness, "Kenzie, you've got some nerve, attacking me in broad daylight. It seems like you're really desperate. What? Your plan failed, didn't it?"My neck was forcefully pulled backward. The sudden suffocation drove me to claw at the arm, choking me instinctively."Don't move! If you don't want to die so soon, beh
Atlas's face darkened as he uttered a curt "Hmm" and hung up the phone.Turning to Tristan, he said, "Escort Mrs. Chloe back to the office."He looked at me and softened his tone, "You go back to the office first, I'll come to pick you up later." Atlas expressed a hint of apology."Okay." I nodded.Tristan escorted me to my office and gave me some instructions before leaving.Then, my phone rang. It was a call from Trinity. I quickly answered, "Chlo, I'm about to head to the airport, I’m going to Yare. Do you have any messages for the old lady?"Her sudden question caught me off guard. I really didn't know what message to convey. After all, the old lady of the Avila family to me was just an impression from a photo."No. Let's talk after everything's settled. I'll arrange a time to visit her," I said lightly.Although the travel ban for me had been lifted with the situation becoming clearer, Yare was in turmoil, and I was pregnant. I didn't want to make any promises to the old l
Atticus carefully watched the agitated Mia as he sat in the wheelchair. He pulled out a document and held it out for the media to see."ATL Empire invested 10 billion in Echelon Group a month ago, intending to work together to build a new real estate development and construction field in Zydan. I regret to inform you that you’re no longer a significant shareholder in Echelon, Miss Mia."Even I was shocked by that investment certificate. I looked at Atlas, who seemed confident."To be more accurate, Echelon Group had already signed this agreement before I went to Celestis Island. The real largest shareholder of Echelon Group is ATL Empire. I’m just a partner."As you planned, the shares had long been diluted, but unfortunately, not by you, but by ATL Empire. But I still want to thank you for helping me remove the scum from Echelon Group and purifying Echelon’s ranks."Mia suddenly stood up and banged her fist on the table. She shouted, "Impossible! Atticus, are you playing me?""Y