‘Damn you! You little fucker. Whom did you learn that from? Are you starting to take after your dead mother?!’ Beatrice cursed inwardly in her mind feeling enraged.Contempt was written all over the faces of the ladies that followed Beatrice. No wonder people say it's rare that step-mothers love their step-children for real.The reason why Beatrice was able to earn some respect in the society was because she had built her own reputation as a loving step-mother. She had also been telling everyone how much she loved her step-daughter.Now she had shot herself in the foot.Seeing that her mother was starting to get backlash from the people present, Sophia tried to help and pinched Roseline at her arm secretly. "Sister, what do you mean? Don't be silly. You know, mom loves you very much. Why would she be angry with you?" She said smiling her best at Roseline.Bestrice let out a sigh, noticing that her daughter was trying to help her out so she quickly seized the opportunity. "Poor child,
Never had Sophia felt so embarrassed and angry. She wouldn't have let out her anger if it wasn’t for the fact that others were around.Roseline, on the other hand, was pleased with the victory. ‘ Didn’t you want to play the role of a good mother? Well, you should know that it costs a lot.’ Mrs. Will invited Rose again to the party, and Rose played the same trick, looking at Beatrice in silence, implying it was all up to Beatrice to decide."Come on, Mrs. Gray. Cut the child some slack and let her go to the party. After all, I heard that Sophia would be attending as well. Don't be too strict with the poor girl." Mrs. Will, who understood what Rose meant with her gaze, turned to look at Beatrice and said with implications. Beatrice's face was twitching with rage. She knew that Mrs. Will was implying that she was being biased towards Rose for letting Sophia attend the party and not letting Rose attend as well. However, there was no way she could explain herself without sounding dising
“Mr. King, you've been quiet all throughout, don't you have something to say?" She asked, still smiling at Alex. But she didn't get any response from him nor did he act like he heard her.‘Is he ignoring me? Did he even see me sitting here at all?!’ Alex ignoring her was like a huge slap to her face. She wasn't used to being treated like the way she was right now. It was always easy for her to get men to fall for her and she thought she could do the same to Alex but he hadn't spared her a glance since.Not wanting her anger and pride to ruin her chance, she swallowed her frustration and continued putting on a smile on her face before speaking again. “I'm curious about one thing Mr. King? Is it true that you have no girlfriend? I mean you're handsome, wealthy and powerful yet you still haven't gotten a girlfriend. What do you think about looking out for one and it just turns out that I'm also sing-" “Miss Gale, I've seen the files are what your sister promised us. However, we will h
However, Rose on the other hand was completely the opposite. She had never seen anyone like Cara, even though she had met her in her past life. She had never spoken to her or knew the type of person she was. Rose had an amazed expression on her face as she watched in silence.“I knew it, they are already close for Alex to buy her a gift." “Wow, when did they get together? Are they going to announce their relationship?" “Would Cara Gale be that lucky woman who is able to steal the heart of the ruthless Alexander king?" People began to murmur again when they heard that Alex had bought a gift for her.Among all the people that thought that Alex and Cara were in some sort of relationship, Rose was the only person who thought differently. First of all, she didn't get the slightest impression that the two of them were a couple. Cara was the only one who was smiling like a fool in love, while the man who goes by the name Alex, acted like she wasn't even visible.There was eighty five per
A smirk appeared on her face. ‘Already eyeing a big shot to help you right? You think she isn't worthy of him and you do?’ Cara shivered in anger. “This doesn't make sense at all." She mumbled under her breath.A few minutes ago, she was excited when she received the gift. For a moment, she thought that she was already making progress and if she could keep stealing her sister's spot whenever she had a meeting with Alex, she would be able to leave a good impression on Alex and he would eventually warm up to her. She was really proud of herself with her plan, the image of herself as Mrs. King was starting to come to reality. Now, all hopes vanished. Still not wanting to give up her chances with Alex, Cara put on a smile on her face and turned her attention to look at Alex. “Mr. King, I apologize for misunderstanding who the jewelry box is for." Cara apologized, before continuing, “However, since my sister isn't the one who came here, can't I just take the jewelry as my gift instead s
“Boss, don’t tell me you want to comply?" Derek asked, and he got his response when Alex turned around and scanned around the shop.When the ladies in the shop heard Cara's words, most of them were excited and hoped that Alex would help them. Who cares if they get to be his girlfriend for just five minutes? That is a title that would forever be stuck to their name.Alex frowned and deepened as none of the women in the shop caught his interest. How hard is it to find a girlfriend? However, his eyes suddenly landed in the direction of where a few women were standing, not far from them his eyes fell at Sophia and Roseline. The first thing that caught his attention was a pair of lifeless gray eyes.Sophia felt her heart was racing. ‘Oh my gosh! He's looking at me!’Naturally, she perked up her breasts, ran her hand down her hair, and put on a flirtatious smile.Rose secretly rolled her eyes when she noticed Sophia's action. Not finding the rest of the show interesting to watch anymore, Ro
Rose frowned when she heard Cara’s words. What does she mean flat? Yes, she might be young but she definitely isn't flat Cara had made it sound. She just isn't curvy yet just because she is still young.Feeling a gaze on her, Rose raised her head up and saw Alex staring at her. ‘Did he think I'm flat as well?’ Annoyed, she pouted, glared at him. "Move away from me. If you're also having the same thoughts as that woman." It somehow only came out as a whisper and was only audible to Alex. Alex reacted swiftly, let go of Roseline and stepped away with a deep frown on his face. Not expecting him to let go of her like that, Rose lost balance and was about to have a heavy fall. She closed her eyes, acceptingly, though more helplessly. ‘What bad luck. Now everyone is going to watch me fall. How embarrassing!’However, she did fall, but into Alex’s arms as he caught her again quickly. "Behave yourself, Roseline Gray and stop being jealous." Alex's cold, deep voice sounded next to Rose's ea
********* Rose had no idea how she got in the car later. Her head was a mess still, and she was staring into space till a violent shake threw her back to reality. She frowned and turned to look at Sophia only to see an unforgiven face and you slut-how-dare-you-steal-my-guy expression on her face. "Rose, is it true about what happened back there? When did you start dating Alexander king? How come you've never mentioned it?" Sophia was so frustrated that Alex didn't even take a single look at her. Her pride was not allowed to be defeated, and Sophia swore that she would have it back, what she believed to be hers. Seeing the scowl on Sophia's face, Rose felt much better. Literally, she knew was basically being a callous and black hearted Schadenfreude, but she couldn't help it. There was nothing more satisfying than finding Pleasure-in-others'-misfortune. And today Rose was pleased to see her step-mother and sister suffer. Beatrice had decided to ride in the same car with both Sophia
---The press conference was held at the luxurious Riverview Grand Hotel, a venue known for hosting high-profile events. The large conference room was packed to capacity with journalists, photographers, and reporters from various media, all eager to catch a glimpse of the trending Gray family.As soon as Rose entered the room with William, Beatrice, Victor, and Sophia, the reporters surged forward like a swarm of hungry predators."Roseline Gray, what’s your opinion on the recent video?""Roseline Gray, how do you feel about being attacked by your half-brother Victor Gray?""This isn’t the first time, is it? Why have you stayed silent about the abuse?""Your father didn’t defend you—have you ever resented him for it?""How do you feel about the way your stepmother treats you?""Doesn’t your stepsister Sophia support you either? Do you feel completely isolated?""Roseline Gray, I heard you came back to the country, so what did you do to be beaten up by your step brother?”Question afte
………The next day, Rose dressed carefully for the press conference. She applied a touch of makeup to cover her bruises, though some marks were still visible. She chose a white summer dress, its delicate design giving her an air of fragility.When she descended the stairs, Beatrice was waiting, her irritation evident as Rose had made them for a long time on purpose.“Why are you wearing that? Pick a brighter color! You look better in something cheerful. And put more makeup on!” Beatrice protested as she scanned what Rose was wearing.‘What is she trying to do? Is she trying to look weak on purpose?’ Beatrice fumed internally. ‘This conference is meant to prove the video was false, not the opposite! If anything bad happens to my son, you’ll pay for it!’ she seethed.Rose’s eyes filled with tears as she replied meekly, “Dr. Noah said makeup could cause scarring if applied before my cuts heal. But I thought it would look too obvious without anything, so I used a little to cover most of the
They began the game in silence, the soft clink of chess pieces the only sound. Frank’s moves were calculated, deliberate, but he quickly realized Rose wasn’t an easy opponent. Her strategy was sharp, her responses precise, and it wasn’t long before she had him on the defensive.Frank leaned back in his chair, studying the board with newfound respect. “You’re quite skilled. Your mother must have been an excellent teacher.”“She was,” Rose replied, her tone tinged with fondness. “She always said chess was like life. Every move matters, and you have to think several steps ahead.”Frank nodded, his expression thoughtful. “A wise woman. And what have you learned from this game?”Rose paused, a small smile playing on her lips. “That you’re cautious but adaptable. You test your opponent before committing to a strategy.”Frank raised an eyebrow, clearly impressed. “Well observed. You’ve got a sharp mind, Rose. A rare gift.”“Thank you,” Rose said, warmth creeping into her voice.As the game p
Rose smiled, caught between the two. “I… I didn’t mean to start a competition!” she said, laughing lightly.Frank chuckled and placed a hand on Anne’s shoulder. “It’s not a competition, dear,” he said softly, his voice carrying a reassuring note. “Let her call us whatever she feels comfortable with.”Anne smiled, the playful edge fading. “Well, as long as she knows I’m the most important one,” she said with a wink.Julian laughed, crossing his arms and leaning back casually. “I’ll tell you what Rose, in order to soften the situation. It would be best if you call mom ‘Grandma’ and father ‘Grandfather,’ Deal?”Rose laughed, feeling the warmth of their banter. “Deal!” she said, her heart lightened by the playful atmosphere. She totally forgot that she felt stiffened up earlier.“Well,” she said, giving Anne a quick hug, “I’ll call you Grandma, if you prefer that. I just... I think it slipped out. It feels right.”Anne’s face softened, her smile returning. “Of course, darling. I suppose
*********The grandeur of the Anderson Ancestral home was as breathtaking as ever, with its ornate architecture and sprawling gardens. Though Rose had visited before, this time felt different. It wasn’t a casual visit—it was her escape, her refuge after the chaos at the Gray mansion.Julian guided her inside, where Frank and Anne Anderson awaited in the living room. Despite the familiarity, Rose still felt a twinge of hesitation as she approached them.“Rose, my darling,” Anne said warmly, pulling her into a gentle hug. Her soft hair brushed against Rose’s cheek as she held her close. “I’ve been worried about you. I’m so glad you’re here now.”“Thank you, Grandma,” Rose replied, her voice steady though her heart fluttered at the kindness."My goodness, how on earth did you end up in this state? How dare William Gray let his incompetent fool do this to my precious child? Does he have a death wish?" Anne fumed, her voice trembling with rage. Though most of the wounds were finally heali
Rose, who heard Beatrice’s voice paused and looked at Beatrice, her expression blank but her posture poised.Beatrice clasped her hands together, her tone pitiful. “Rose, I… I know I’ve made mistakes. This is all my fault. I shouldn’t have let things get so out of hand. Please, don’t leave. We’re family. Let me make it up to you. What would the people say if they knew you left home?”‘Tsk, you're still worried about your safety and reputation.’ Rose scoffed.Her gaze fixed on Beatrice. She tilted her head slightly, her tone soft and innocent. “Oh, Mother, I don’t blame you at all. It wasn’t your fault. These things just… happen.”Beatrice’s eyes widened, taken aback by Rose’s response. “I—I’ll do better, I swear. I’ll talk to Victor, and we’ll make this right. You don’t need to go.”Rose offered a small, sweet smile. “You’re too kind, mother, But Uncle Julian is right—I need a change of scenery. It’s not about you. I just need a little time to heal.”Beatrice reached for her hand, h
---The Gray mansion loomed under the overcast sky, its towering structure a stark reminder of the battles fought within its walls. Two days had passed since Rose signed the contract, transferring her shares to William. But her mind was far from defeated. She had called her uncle, Julian Anderson, with one clear directive: take her out of this house.As the sleek black car pulled up to the grand entrance, William stood at the threshold, his expression unreadable but his stance stiff with tension. Julian stepped out, his tailored suit and confident demeanor a sharp contrast to William’s simmering hostility.“Julian,” William greeted, his voice laced with forced politeness. “What brings you here today?”Julian’s gaze swept over William coldly. “I’m here for Rose.”William’s jaw tightened. “Rose is perfectly fine where she is.”Julian smirked, his sharp features hardening. “Fine? Is that what you call being bitten by your son? Victor’s behavior was barbaric. She’s covered in bruises, an
‘My wife is right. She's changed. She's plotting something,’ William thought, his suspicions solidifying."So, she’s put her guard up against me," he muttered in a tone only he can hear, his expression darkening. If that’s the case, I’ll have to get rid of her soon.But the tens of billions he craved wouldn’t be his until Rose turned twenty.Rose felt the sudden wave of hostility radiating from her father and shivered. There’s nothing he wouldn’t do, even to his own daughter, to get what he wants. She was certain of it.That was the real William Carter: calculating and ruthless. With no power, money, or connections of her own, Rose wasn’t a threat to him—yet. But her time for revenge hadn’t come, and until then, she had no choice but to play along.Quickly, she donned a sweet smile and replied in her softest voice, "You’re my dad. There’s no need to borrow anything. Whatever you need, I’m happy to give it to you and help in any way I can."Her thoughts told a different story. This is
"Father?!" William snapped out of his thoughts when he heard Rose's voice next to him. Rose frowned at the way William jolted at her words. It's obvious he was daydreaming, but the fact that he was wasting her time was even more annoying to her.“Do you have something else to.say?" She asked.For a moment, as though remembering his true purpose for coming, he cleared his throat and turned to look at her properly.“There’s something I need to ask you, Rose.” He hesitated, his tone softening. “Do you remember the 10% shares your grandfather gifted you? I need you to lend them to me. It’s critical for stabilizing the company. I promise, once we get through this tough time, I’ll return them to you.”The words landed exactly as Rose had expected. She had been waiting for this moment.When she was born, her grandfather had gifted her 10% of the company’s shares—a sizable stake, even by Gray standards. Those shares had remained untouched, protected by a clause that prevented their use unti