The HEIR

Felix went home with Nate and her father was there already, waiting for him. "Where have you been?"

"I went out with Nate. I am having some fun, dad," he answered. 

"Really? You're having fun instead of running our business. How irresponsible of you!" he raged. 

Felix's father's stern words struck a chord, and he knew he couldn't reveal the true reason for his absence. "I understand, Dad. I needed a break from the daily grind. But don't worry; I've got everything under control."

His father's disapproval was evident, but he decided not to push the matter further. "Fine, just make sure you handle your responsibilities. Our family's reputation is at stake."

"Dad, I think you should let me handle the company," Eric, the eldest son of Mr. Anderson said. 

Eric's unexpected interjection took both Felix and their father by surprise. Felix's father, Mr. Anderson, regarded Eric with a scrutinizing gaze before responding, "You've always been more focused on the company, Eric. But your brother is still the heir apparent, and we have our reasons for that."

Eric didn't back down, his determination evident. "I understand that, but it's clear that Felix has other priorities right now. If the family business is at stake, shouldn't we consider what's best for it? I'm willing to step up and take on more responsibilities if necessary."

"Just focus on your job, and don't do anything unecessary," his father said, and walked away from him. Eric clenched his fists while looking at his dad. He felt that Mr. Anderson's favorite son is Felix. 

Eric's frustration simmered as he watched his father's retreating figure. He couldn't help but feel overlooked and undervalued in the family business. While Felix was groomed to take over, Eric had always been the one to diligently handle various responsibilities within the company.

"What are you looking at, huh? Are you having fun with Felix?" Eric asked Nate, who had witnessed the tense interaction between him and his dad.

Nate bowed his head and started to walked away, but Eric said something. "I am going to make his life miserable. I will make him pay for what he had done to me and to my mother!" he raged. 

Nate, caught in the crossfire of family tensions, tried to defuse the situation. "Eric, I understand your frustration, but please, don't let your anger cloud your judgment. Felix is already under a lot of pressure, and adding more conflict won't benefit anyone."

Eric's expression remained resolute, but a hint of uncertainty flickered in his eyes. "Nate, you don't know the whole story. There are things about Felix you don't understand. But I appreciate your concern."

Nate nodded in understanding and concern, "I know there's more to the situation than meets the eye, Eric. Just remember that family is important, and sometimes it's better to work together to find a solution rather than seeking revenge. If you ever need to talk or need help, I'm here for you."

On the other hand, the Family of the Lao's were planning to settle an arranged marriage for Felix and their daughter, Charlotte. They wanted to expand their business nationwide and international, and they can do that by the help of the Anderson's. 

As the days went by, the Lao family's plan to arrange a marriage between Felix and Charlotte began to take shape. They saw this union as a strategic move to expand their business influence, leveraging the Anderson family's connections and resources.

In a luxurious penthouse suite overlooking the city, the Lao family discussed their intentions. Mr. Lao, a shrewd businessman with a reputation for ambitious ventures, led the discussion. He explained the importance of sealing this alliance.

"Charlotte, my dear," he said, turning to his daughter, "you understand the significance of this marriage, don't you? The Andersons are a well-established and influential family. If we can secure this alliance, it will open doors to new markets and opportunities for our company."

Charlotte, a poised and intelligent young woman, nodded in agreement. She understood the practicality of the arrangement, though it wasn't her ideal vision of love. "I know, Father. I'm willing to do what's best for our family and our business."

Mr. Lao's wife, Madeline, chimed in, "We've been preparing you for this, Charlotte. You'll be the perfect match for Felix. With your intelligence and charm, you can ensure a successful partnership."

Despite her willingness to comply, Charlotte couldn't help but wonder about Felix's feelings. She knew little about him beyond his reputation as the heir to the Anderson empire. She couldn't deny a sense of apprehension, not knowing what to expect from this arranged marriage.

Back at the Anderson residence, Eric heared the news about the arrangement of the Lao's. He grinned as he wanted that to happened, so that Felix will be able to go abroad and leave the company. 

Eric couldn't help but see the news of the arranged marriage as an opportunity to achieve his own goals within the family business. He believed that if Felix were to marry Charlotte and leave for an international venture, it would create a power vacuum that he could step into.

With a calculating glint in his eyes, Eric started devising a plan of his own. He knew he needed to position himself favorably in the family's eyes and establish his capability to run the company effectively.

Later that night, Nate knocked gently on Felix's bedroom door and entered when he heard a response. He found Felix sitting at his desk, deep in thought, and informed him of the Lao family's plans for an arranged marriage.

"Felix, there's something you should know," Nate began. "The Lao family is planning to arrange a marriage between you and their daughter, Charlotte. They see it as a strategic move to expand their business."

Felix leaned back in his chair, absorbing the news with a mixture of surprise and concern. "An arranged marriage to expand their business?"

Nate nodded his head and looked at him, "Yes, they are really determined to do this arrangement."

"We need to do the arrangement with Marianne before the Lao's," Nate nodded his head with a smile. 

"Alright."