"That can't be possible! What about your studies? It would be hard to enroll you into a school now that the school examination is approaching. It would be hard for you to keep up.” William said, slamming his hand on the table. "I thought I told you that you can only come back home permanently if you graduate high school? But that's not the case now, even if you want to come back to school here, you should return back to abroad for now and finish your school examination. Then next term, I will surely change your school and you can come back home if that's what you want." He added after calmly himself. He had almost lost it when he heard Rose earlier. However, before Rose could reply to her father, Beatrice quickly cut into the conversation. “Honey, what do you mean we can't do something about her enrollment. It's a good thing that Rose had decided to stay with us, that way I can even bond very well with my daughter. " Beatrice clasped her hand together in excitement and looked at
Meanwhile, Rose lay on the bed, her mind preoccupied with thoughts, her heart filled with rage. ‘You all think I'm your puppet—you manipulative murderers. Well! Let's see!’They had successfully awakened her revengeful motives. Anyone that had harmed her mother and her (in her previous life) would never be spared. Anyone.But what should she do?She did not have the network, money, nor power. How was she going to compete against her father, who had everything she lacked?She needed to plan carefully. But for now, she knew she had to stay alive until at least when she got to twenty years old as that was when she could inherit the money from her grandfather. She needed that money to win the battle. Thanks to Sophia, she finally knew that she did have properties from her mother and grandfather. According to what she heard, she had officially inherited the property at the age of twenty. However, she could only have assets to have of the property as she would have full assets on all the p
“I'm sorry. I should have called you when I arrived but I was busy taking care of some business. Sorry, for making you worry so much." Rose finally spoke in a soft, regretful voice. She herself wasn't sure why she sounded regretful. Is it the fact that she is regretful about the past or was it the fact that she is regretful for making Alisa worried?Alisa's eyes widened when she heard Rose. This is the first time she would ever hear Rose sound like this in all the years they've known each other. “It- it's okay, I'm no longer angry. Now that I've heard your voice I'm at peace. However, you've spent a week there, when did you plan to come back?” she asked. Rose paused when she heard Alisa's question. That right she was supposed to return back but she hadn't informed Alisa of her change of decision. Thinking about it, she was a bit hesitant to tell her because she didn't know how she'd react.“Hey, why are you quiet? Don't tell me you still want to stay back. We have an examination com
“So this was what she was talking about. Aunty has a weird way of passing on messages." Rose mumbled under her breath when she remembered what Paige had told her before she left the room.She stared at the red box and suddenly recalled something. In her past life, she remembered having this same box in her possession before losing it again. She had kept her promise to not open the box until she was older in her past life. However, the day she planned to open the box to see what was in it, Sophia had barged into her room. When she saw the red box in Rose's hand she quickly snatched it from Rose claiming that Rose should give her the box thinking it was expensive jewelry that was in it.The matter had caused a small argument between Rose and Sophia because she didn't want to let go of it since it was the last thing her mother gave her. However, when William got home that day and Beatrice told him what happened, he called Rose and ordered her to give the box to Sophia. Even though it
If only she had gotten the chance to see this message from her mother in the past, maybe, just maybe she wouldn't have died so pathetically on her wedding anniversary night. It was only when she felt a teardrop fall on the back of her hand did she snap out of it. She wiped her eyes with the back of her hand as she grabbed the second black envelope and opened it. She was taken aback by surprise when she saw two Gold credit cards with different bank names written on it. Her mother had actually prepared money for her incase she needed some money before she inherited her property. And here she was thinking how broke she was a few minutes ago.“Haha, isn't this too nice of you, mom? That's right, I will become a stronger and more powerful woman than you can even imagine, mom. Just wait and see how I deal with those traitors. I've failed you once, but I won't this time around. Thank you for this second chance.” Rose mumbled under her breath, a wide smile appeared on her face. "Now, all I
The reason why she was trying to convince Rose not to take the exam was because she had a bad feeling that Rose might do well with the exam. And if rumors that the first young Miss of the Gray family pass one of the best school examinations with just two days of studying it would elevate Rose's reputation and that is what she is trying to avoid.Normally if Rose hadn't said she would take the exam, her plan was to spread rumors that Rose was unable to pass the examination and the Gray family had to use their reputation to help her get admitted. It would surely make people view Rose as a dumb and dull student which would ruin her reputation.“If that's your worry, Stepmother, you have nothing to worry about. I will definitely not let you down." Rose assured Beatrice confidently.‘Of course, I will not let you down. I will make sure to succeed, which is your greatest fear.’ she grinned at her own thoughts.“But-" “Now that it's confirmed that I will change schools, I will take my leave
Rose knew this was bound to happen and was prepared for this reaction. And the reason was because she hadn't worn any makeup to conceal her beauty so everyone in the room was quickly captivated and mesmerized by her beauty. However, among the students murmuring, Rose felt a particular person among the students was staring at differently. She followed her instinct and saw a young boy staring intently at her. She narrowed her eyes at him seeing how he didn't flinch when their gaze met. Rose was pissed at the fact that he was staring at her, but the reason why she narrowed her gaze was because he had the same gray eyes like her. “What is causing you trouble in my class?" The teacher, who wasn't aware that Rose had entered his class as he was focused on what he was writing on the board, finally turned around to give a good scolding to his students to shut them up. However, he was shocked to see Rose in his class the moment he turned around. His eyes widened as gaze at the extremely go
She saw him leaning against the elevator wall with his hand tucked in the school pants pocket with a calm and aloof expression. Rose knew without being told that he was from a rich family but she was amazed seeing how he had almost similar expressions to her.“Why are you staring at me? Do I have something on my face?" The boy suddenly asked, noticing that Rose was gazing at him ever since they entered the elevator.“Nothing." Rose calmly replied as she turned to look away from him. However, she failed to notice the smirk on the boy's face.A few moments passed and no one said anything until the boy spoke again to break the silence. “Why are you here alone in the first place? Didn't you come here with someone?" He asked. Ever since she entered the classroom and he laid his eyes on her, he felt like Rose was familiar and his curiosity increased when he saw her having the same gray eyes like him. “I didn't come alone. My younger sister is a student in this school and she was supposed t
---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