“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
"I'm sure that Mr. Gray is so proud to have not only a stunning wife but also a beautiful daughter like Miss Sophia.” Steven Osborne, another one of the men added. "I wonder which young master would be lucky to marry such a beautiful woman. Hey, why don't we have a bet and see who gets her first?"It was one of the games they played to kill time and for fun.Steve Osborne quickly gave up when he heard Peter's suggestions. "Nah, we all know David will win as he always does. I'm out?" He said, glancing at one of the men sitting next to him.Jack Hall laughed, "Haha. Great. Don't regret it and keep your word."Alex, who was hearing the whisper from the men sitting at the next table, swirled the champagne in hand indifferently. Even though he was not doing it intentionally, his graceful aura absorbed admiration from every corner.While the other men's eyes were glued on Sophia, his eyes fell on Roseline every now and then, and he found her strangely desirable.She's different. Smart. Gre
Rose listened but seemed to be deep in thoughts.It was true that the Grays were reputable and rich, but compared to them, the Grays were far lower down the ladder.David was the person to extend his hand gentlemanly "My pretty lady, may I introduce myself…"The whole room was surprised. Really? Are they interested in someone like Sophia Gray? She's nobody compared to them.The women in the room were flaming with jealousy as well as resentment.Sophia was overwhelmed. She gazed at David as she held out her hand. "I know you. You are David Parker?" ‘Am I dreaming? Is David Parker really speaking to me? Perhaps they have finally noticed my beauty! All of them. My god. This is amazing! The money on this dress is very well spent! Though it was a lot of money, it was surely worth it.’ Sophia screamed in excitement in her head.She had completely forgotten about the incident at the jewelry shop earlier as she proudly recovered.David placed a kiss on Sophia's hand and gave her a bright smil
“Oh my, I didn't see you here young Masters. I'm equally happy to see you here." Mr. Will was surprised to see David and his group of friends standing here as well. Of course all the young men came from a reputable family that even him can't overlook their background so he greeted them.“Thank you, Mr. Will. We actually left our table there and came to chat with Miss Gray here. I must commend you again, Mr. Will. You've thrown another successful party.” Peter was the one who replied on behalf of himself and his friends who nodded their heads in agreement.“Haha, Mr. Allen, thank you for your kind words. I hope you're enjoying yourself. Allow me to introduce you to our honorable guest, though I'm sure you already know him. Gentlemen please meet Mr. King.” Mr. Will introduced Alex to David and his friends.“It's a pleasure to meet you, Mr. King. I've heard a lot about you." David was the first person to greet Alex and stretched his hand out for a handshake.Alex stared at the outstretc
It was a comeback no one had expected. Wow. How dare she! Didn't she just insult the great Alexander king back?!As expected of mother and daughter! Some of the elderly guests who knew Ruby and how she acted when she was alive couldn't help but see similarity in Rose action as well. She reminded them of how Ruby used to stylishly make comebacks that no one can defeat then.She ignored the shocked audience and continued, "Also, having something from a second-hand shop is better than nothing. I dare not complain."Her face seemed to change and started to shine with an explicable charm the longer you laid your eyes on it.Instead of getting angry, Alex loved her response and decided to play along. "What do you mean? Are you implying that Mrs. Gray has been mistreating you?"‘A very interesting creature. She's even smarter than I thought. Calm and confident. Throws unexpectedly brilliant remarks.’ Alex thought to himself, taking notes of Rose attitude.A pretty face would usually win you
The cheeky smile disappeared on Rose’s face as she lowered her eyes, and politely, she apologized, "My apologies."Upon seeing that Rose had done what she asked of, Beatrice carried on "Mr. King. Please don't be offended, Rose wasn't behaving herself. It was very rude of her. She's always been…"And the moment she carried on the farther she ended going. She was too furious to think smartly. Though she tried to be indirect, everyone listening could understand how little she thought of Rose and how terribly she was insulting her.Rose stood aside and listened quietly as tears filled her eyes.The spectators couldn't help feeling pity for her. Poor kid. She doesn't have the real mother's love.Alex knew Rose was probably acting, but he somehow felt protective of her. If she had to be insulted, it would have to be me and me only. No one else is allowed."Mrs. Gray, you are indeed just a step-mother." Swift, short and sharp.Beatrice's mouth shut promptly, her face reddened as she finally
Though Rose had not said a mean word about Beatrice she had successfully passed the message clearly and cleverly."Rose, you…" Beatrice was utterly taken aback. ‘How dare you! You little devil! How dare you try to tarnish my reputation further?!’ She thought as she couldn't hold back her anger anymore. "You only think about your biological mother and never see me as your mother. Whatever I do, just can't please you."She deliberately emphasized the word "please," trying to convey the message that Rose was a spoiled, difficult child and she had been trying her best to act like a mother to Rose.Rose struggled to compose herself and maintain the tears in her eyes, not letting the water run down her face, before she cocked gun and shot back her response at Beatrice. "But mother, why can't I think of my biological mother. She's my mother after all, and I miss her. Meanwhile, you are also my mother, and I will always respect you.” She said, making her voice quiver like she was about to br
"Shut up!” Victor snapped sharply, his voice quivering with rage. The injustice he felt burned like a firestorm inside him. “They beat me up! They should be begging for my forgiveness! I’m going to sue them all and throw them in jail!” His eyes blazed as he glared at the crowd, his words venomous. “How dare you mess with me? You’re all dead!” The crowd erupted into sneers and laughter. “If anything happens to us, the world will know it’s the Grays who did it,” someone retorted. “You’ll face justice soon enough.” Another voice chimed in, “Miss Rose Gray, it’s pointless to be kind to people like them. They don’t know the meaning of gratitude!” “They’re heartless,” a third agreed. “The more you tolerate them, the worse they’ll treat you.” “Some people are just born wicked,” an older man said, shaking his head. “Victor Gray is the perfect example.” Rose, standing at the center of the storm, glanced at Victor with a faint trace of pity. She sighed softly and said, “But he’s still my
The Gray couple stood devastated, their carefully constructed façade crumbling under the weight of the truth. William seemed to freeze, his face twitching with barely restrained fury. For a moment, he looked like a man teetering on the brink of madness. How can I possibly agree? Everyone is watching and listening. But those shares are mine. MINE. Rose kept her gaze fixed on the floor, her shoulders hunched like a frightened lamb. Her small frame trembled slightly, evoking pity from the onlookers. Poor girl. The crowd whispered amongst themselves. Born into wealth but treated like an outcast in her own family. Even her own father uses her without hesitation. Beatrice’s fists were clenched so tightly her nails dug into her palms. Her mind was racing. No. We can’t give those shares back. They’re ours. Sophia’s and Victor’s future depend on them. She can’t take them from us! Sophia stood frozen, her face burning with suppressed anger. Yet, she dared not speak, remembering the backla
"How could a father steal from his own daughter? Or is she not even considered his daughter?” “Is the Gray Corporation really that desperate now?” Outraged whispers spread among the crowd. Some female reporters expressed their disgust. “Do you only see your son as your child? What about your daughter? This is outrageous!” Someone chimed in, “He surely cares for his daughter, it all just depends on which daughter you're referring to. And it's obvious that you mean Sophia. Look at her outfit! That dress alone is worth more than $100,000, and her jewelry must cost a fortune of a million. However , look at the poor Miss Roseline Gray…” All eyes turned to Rose, and the difference was undeniable. “My God, it seems like the ex-wife’s daughter hasn't been treated well.” “It’s clear who gets the love and resources in this family…” Beatrice Gray’s face tightened as she realized the shift in the room’s mood, but it was too late. Sophia, unable to contain her anger, stood up and snapped a
It was a speech prepared and arranged for Rose to deliver, and it would have sounded far more convincing if she had done so. However, Rose had stayed quiet the entire time, leaving William Gray with no choice but to do it himself."Fake? Photoshop? That’s the best explanation you can offer? Ridiculous! Do you think we’re so blind that we can’t tell the difference between fake and real? Does he truly think we’re stupid?"Some reporters exchanged skeptical glances, their pens pausing mid-sentence. The crowd seemed to share the same sentiment, murmuring in agreement, except for a small group of reporters.Before the other reporters had the chance to challenge him, a few voices rang out from the front row.“Mr. Gray is absolutely correct," one reporter said with exaggerated conviction. "The video lacks credibility. It's easy to manipulate footage these days, especially with advanced editing software."Another voice quickly added, "I agree. It’s well-edited, but if you look closely, you
---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