“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
As soon as they arrived home, Rose got out of the car. She turned to look at Beatrice. “I will go and get dressed for the party, stepmother." She told Beatrice and without waiting for a response from Beatrice she went upstairs to her bedroom to take a shower. She knew she had played a good game today, and she felt good. At the same time, she understood that there would be another game at the party this evening, and she would be prepared and not lose the opportunity to humiliate both Beatrice and Sophia. Standing in front of the mirror in the bathroom, Rose was busy examining her face in the mirror when she unconsciously touched her forehead where Alex had kissed him and she felt rage growing again. “Alexander king! The same man I met at the airport. I should have asked him for compensation because he used me to lie to his girlfriend or whoever she is but I will let this slide because I borrowed his status to my advantage today as well.” Rose mumbled under her breath. Even though she
The incident earlier in the day at the jewelry shop had awakened Sophia's competitive nature. “Yes, dress me up very well, mother. I'm the swan. The most beautiful and elegant of all. It's impossible that I will ever be beaten by that ugly duckling. Alexander must have been somehow oblivious to my beauty. That must be the reason why Roseline got the attention today. Yes. That's why! I knew it.” Sophia remarked, dazed in her own thoughts.Unlike Sophia who was being delusional, Beatrice was thinking practically. "That is a good thought, my child. But we, the Grays……" Beatrice tried to voice out her concern and thought regarding what her daughter had said.However, Sophia was not ready to listen to any reasons or excuses. She was a spoiled one, and she had to get what she wanted, as always. "I don't care. I know I'm the only one that deserves Alexander. Mom, please, I have to marry him. If Roseline can get close to him then I must as well. Besides, it will be great for Gray when I'm Mrs
Alexander was the rumored fearsome, stone cold, Mafia emperor that no one had seen and that was because his identity is being hidden as CEO. Because of so much power he possess just as being a CEO, the governments who were unaware of his identity as the Mafia king had sought him out countless times to help them handle the underworld sometimes. “So, tell me why am I still meeting their Chairman?" No one wanted to answer due to fear of their boss, including the employees who brave earlier to talk. All his bravery had been used up earlier, besides he didn't want to be one to talk again in order to avoid being the first person to receive their boss' terrifying punishment.However, the rest of his colleagues glanced at him, gesturing to him to speak on everyone's behalf. ‘What? Isn't once enough?! Why should I be the scapegoat and die for you all?’Seeing that no one was willing to speak, Alex made a small gesture to his assistant.Already knowing what to do, Derek cleared his throat an
“Not sure. But continue digging for more information about her studying overseas. And get me the footage of what happened at the jewelry shop while I was in the private VIP room.” Alex ordered.“Copy Boss. Is that all?" Derek asked Alex creased his brows as he thought of something, then nodded his head, "Mm. You can go then.""Yes Boss!" Derek raised his hand and saluted like a military soldier before quickly leaving the room.Alex remained calm on the surface but deep down he was dumbfounded by what his assistant just did. Did Derek think he was a general? He’ll never understand this side from his assistant of fifteen years. There are times Derek is serious and dangerous and there are times he acts like a completely different person.Alex set the documents in his hands down and opened one of the drawers and took out a childish pink colored wallet and stared at it.For some odd reason, his mind kept drifting to Rose's face and her voice, especially her familiar mesmerizing eyes. Even
"According to the contract, page 11, number 54. Lexi Corps was supposed to produce a certain amount of products for King conglomerate but the amount we received was not even up to half of the written amount in the contract. That means Lexi Corps just breached the contract.” Derek spoke, reading from the copy of the contract document that was kept on his tablet. He placed the tablet on the table and pointed at the page it was written on.Immediately Chairman Roy picked up the tablet and read the contract, his face instantly pale and sweats started dripping down his face. “How-how can this be?" Chairman Roy stuttered. He was surprised to see that this part was added in the contract and he hadn't read it. The day Chairman Roy wanted to sign the contract, he was so ecstatic and happy that he hadn't read all the conditions written in the contract before he signed it.“Chairman Roy, not only have you breached the contract by providing us with half the amount of products that was written in
---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