To Jasper's surprise, Alyssa frowned and decisively stepped on his toes with her heels, sending pain across his body. It was one thing to have his expensive tailored shoes ruined; it was another to suffer from a crushing pain."Behave yourself, Mr. Beckett," Alyssa chirped and flicked her hair. Strands of her hair brushed against his cheek, tempting him. She warned, "If you don't, I'll see to it that your toes are crushed by horse hooves."Lowering his gaze, he croaked, "When we get home, can we—""We'll talk about that later," she cut him off.Despite her stubbornness, she was overwhelmed by embarrassment. Her lashes flickered.Meanwhile, Jasper felt sorry for himself. It seemed that Alyssa had the final say when it came to intimacy."I believe everyone here has a rich experience in maintaining racecourses and horse breeding. It's a close fight." Ezzo seemed excited. An idea crossed his mind. This was a great chance to test them out. "Why don't we start a little competition at
All eyes were on Winston. He asked sternly, "What's wrong?""Our equestrian was injured by another horse when he was on a stroll with Blaze."The Taylors exchanged shocked glances. Eyes widening, Winston gasped with concern, "What? How's he doing? He's safe, right?"Winston might be a ruthless businessman, but he was exceptionally generous to his residence staff. More than the competition, he was worried about the condition of the equestrian.Neil wiped away his sweat. "He suffered from multiple injuries and a broken elbow, but he's overall fine. I've arranged for him to be sent to the hospital. Anyway, he can't participate in the race anymore."Winston let out a long sigh. "Gosh. Oh, well, I'm glad he's fine."Lyla softly reminded them, "Whose horse was responsible for that? The owner must be held accountable.""Don't worry, Madam Lyla. The Taylors will not be taken advantage of. I've taken care of the matter. The owner will assume full responsibility."Putting aside the matte
Alyssa's decision blew Zoe's mind. Betty guffawed and teased her, "Wow, you're great at making predictions, aren't you?""Hmph! Let her be. She'll only overexert herself and fall on all fours!" Zoe's teeth clattered from rage as she stared hatefully at Alyssa's confident expression.Winston was doubtful and concerned. "Lyse, can you do it?""Dad, you know me best." She winked playfully at her father.Winston, Lyla, and Jonah exchanged gazes. Alyssa might be adept at horse riding, but horse racing was an entirely different matter."Ms. Alyssa, horse racing is not a child's play. Moreover, this race concerns an important business opportunity and your family's reputation. It's fine to stay out of the race. Better than falling off the horse in the race, don't you think? Mr. Taylor would be heartbroken if that happened," Cornelius remarked.He was subtly warning her about losing face in the race, which was worse than losing the race itself. Everyone present assumed that she would lose
Even as Zoe's grandfather, Cornelius admitted that Alyssa was a fine young lady with wits and guts. If only Landon had considered dating Alyssa, Cornelius would have considered giving his blessing."Dad, Lyla, Jonah, time's running out. I'll go change." With that, Alyssa coolly waved at her family and left the seat with Neil."Lyse, be careful!" Lyla called out to her worriedly. Alyssa turned around and briefly gestured "okay" at her."Fine. Since she can't sit still even for a minute, she can join the race," Winston grumbled.He was worried for Alyssa but refused to openly display his emotions. At the same time, Jasper's passionate gaze followed Alyssa until she vanished from sight."Surprised, aren't you? You probably didn't know Lyse is good at horse riding." Jameson approached him with a smile, causing him to frown.The two good-looking men stood side-by-side like something out of a painting. One wouldn't have known that they were archenemies."Lyse is God's gift to me," J
Betty silently scoffed at Zoe, thinking, "Tsk! Seriously? You're the biggest bitch here."After a long silence, Betty sighed and fueled the fire, "Even if you marry Jasper, you're in for a rough ride. He's infatuated with that bitch, and he might cheat on you."Jasper cheating? Zoe rubbed out the cigarette as she imagined all sorts of humiliating scenes in her mind and upset herself. She vowed, "I must get rid of Alyssa once and for all!""That's easier said than done. The tricks you have up your sleeve are not enough to take down Alyssa. Don't you know how powerful the Taylors are? Do you really think you have what it takes to deal with her? You would have defeated her long ago if you could," Betty said as she rubbed out her cigarette in the ashtray. She added, "I prodded around. They say Alyssa's pretty good in horse riding. She was the champion of some regional junior championships. She was even interviewed by foreign media, unbeknownst to everyone. I guess that bitch is going
When it was time for the race, the equestrians elegantly entered the course with their healthy horses amid the anticipation and cheering of the crowds.They stood tall and proud like warriors, showered with flowers and applause. The emcee passionately introduced each equestrian and the horse.Everyone was focused on the race, but some of the VIP guests held their breath for Alyssa's appearance."And our next equestrian is—" The emcee halted in shock when he stared at the list of names.A hush fell over the audience as well.The emcee continued, "She's the daughter of KS Group's chairman, Alyssa Taylor!"The audience gasped at the sudden change in events. Was Alyssa going to join the race? They wondered if her horse riding skills were up to par. Alyssa was the renowned designer Alexa, an excellent hotelier, the fashion designer Sharon, and the miraculous Dr. White. And now, she could add the title of an equestrian to her list of accomplishments. What more surprises did she have
Betty texted, "Mom, Dad sent someone to look for you. Be careful."…Landon saw Alyssa appear. She was the only woman among a group of male equestrians, like a flower surrounded by green leaves.He couldn't help but act as the cheerleader, shouting, "Oh my goodness! Lyse looks so cool! Good luck! Oh!"Standing nearby, Lauren didn't show any displeasure. Instead, she clenched her fists and looked straight with eyes full of anticipation.The Harpers were all speechless.But what could they do with this troublemaker? They could only pretend not to know him."What are you oh-ing about? Are you a monkey?"Jasper gave a cold glance and sarcastically retorted, "Be quiet. Do you think you are the only one with a mouth?""Oh, please. I'm just expressing myself. If Lauren were on the field, I'd jump down from here, stand by the racetrack, and run with her. I'd wave a flag and cheer for her, disregarding my reputation."Jasper sneered. "Do you think you have any reputation to disregard
14 horses shot out like arrows, and among them, Blaze had the fastest start and the strongest burst of speed.A fervor swept through the crowd, its clamor growing louder and louder.Jasper watched as Alyssa rode Blaze. Her figure was as swift as the wind. His heart was pounding intensely, and the blood in his veins was churning.He was secretly cheering for her in his mind. "Go!"Alyssa's crisp shout cut through the rushing wind. Blaze was as fast as lightning, and she could even feel the pressure and resistance in the air.But no one among those who could participate in this competition was weak.While Blaze briefly led the race, showcasing its full strength under Alyssa's control, its physical advantages were not remarkable compared to other excellent horses.Soon, a foreign equestrian surged ahead."Hahaha! Well done! Good!"Cornelius exclaimed with excitement, tapping his cane on the ground. He smiled from ear to ear. "Did you see that? My family's Thunderbolt is in the
Jonah's gaze burned with a mix of longing, sorrow, and something deeply affectionate. The world swam back into focus as Julien looked at Jonah. Without preamble, he asked, "Are you new? How much do you charge per night?"Light-headed and grinning, Julien reached out a hand, his fingers brushing softly against Jonah's cheek. "You're pretty good-looking," he said, his voice slurred. Then his expression shifted. "Why do you… look so much like someone I hate with every fiber of my being?"Jonah's heart clenched. Even so, he slid his arms around Julien's waist. Trembling, he pulled Julien into his arms. "I'm new here. Could you help me meet my target tonight, Mr. Lovelace?"Julien's eyes narrowed as he scrutinized Jonah. Jonah's eyes teared up as he held Julien's waist tightly. "I promise you won't be disappointed," he said, his voice deep. Watching from the shadows below the stage, Evan nearly gagged at Jonah's sultry tone. Was this really the Judas he knew? The man sounded downri
The bar was alive with striking lights and thundering music, and the air was thick with the scent of tobacco and alcohol. The atmosphere was one of moral decay—corrupt, degrading, and vile. "Where's Julien?" Jonah's voice cut through the noise, his tone icy and sharp. When Jonah stepped inside, the eyes of several men turned toward him, their gazes filled with illicit intent."Why, hello there. Are you here alone? Are you feeling lonely?" A sexy man sauntered over, draping himself over Jonah's shoulders. He let his hands linger with a playful squeeze. "If you're bored, I'd be happy to keep you company." Jonah's expression darkened. His hands trembled, veins bulging with barely contained rage. Suddenly, Evan burst through the crowd, his face twisting in alarm at the sight of Jonah surrounded by a swarm of predatory men. Evan yelled, "Don't touch him!" A heavy thump reverberated through the room. Gasps erupted as people scrambled back.The man who had draped himself over
Rafe stated, "But Beckett Group is in the middle of a storm right now. If I insisted on giving your corporation the project, my superiors would investigate me. I wouldn't be able to escape unscathed!""If you're investigated, I'll make sure you can still live a life of luxury—even if you lose your job." Justin's tone darkened. "But if you turn against me, you won't just suffer a few losses. You'll lose everything."Under the dim moonlight, Justin fiddled with his antique tea cup, his gaze narrowing. "You've worked so hard to get to where you are. Are you prepared to lose it all?"After ending the call, Justin turned to Remy, who stood quietly at the side. "Sheryl is still being detained. She can't be bailed out for another two days. I need someone to watch over the research lab. You'll handle that."Remy was taken aback. "I failed my last mission. Aren't you going to punish me?"Justin's smile was cold and insincere. "It wasn't your fault. You were ambushed. If not for that, I tru
Remy pursed his lips, bending down to pick up the fallen poker card. It was the King of Spades—an entry pass to Kings' Club. "My attacker was…" Remy's pupils constricted as he tightened his grip on the card. "It can only be that dear uncle of mine, always claiming to see me as his own son." Justin's lips curled into a sinister smile. "He's trying to get rid of my right-hand man, taking advantage of my internal feud with Jasper. Weakening me is just his first step toward gaining control over me."He's been a fugitive ever since his successful prison break, never returning to Cyrris after receiving his life sentence. His power base remains in Kontina. "I'm the last surviving Dutton. The Dutton Group, as a cover, has declared bankruptcy and severed all ties with the country. "My dear uncle has taken a huge risk just to target me. He sent his men to attack you in Solana City. What a delightful surprise. It seems he truly doesn't trust me, his only remaining family."Remy lowere
The hospital ward grew heavy with silence. Mandy and Neil stared at Alyssa, stunned beyond words. "M-Ms. Alyssa, you knew that man was Mr. Damien?" Neil asked, disbelief etched into his voice. "Yes." Alyssa's reply was quiet, her lips pressed into a thin line. She lowered her gaze, her voice barely above a whisper. "We found out when Cyrus took Damien's cigarette butt for a paternity test."Mandy approached Alyssa, her shoulders trembling slightly. "So, you and Cyrus knew… and you both kept it from me?" Mandy said, her voice catching in her throat, tears welling up. Alyssa felt a sharp pang in her chest. "Mandy, I'm sorry. It was my decision. Cyrus had nothing to do with it."Mandy's tears fell freely now, her grief spilling out in raw sobs. "Do you know what it's been like for me all these years, thinking Damien was gone? Winston, Miley, Lyla, and Colene kept telling me to move on. I tried to accept that he was dead, that we'd never find his body. But I never did."Her vo
The hospital ward was bathed in a dim, yellow glow from the bedside lamp. The silence was thick, yet the room held a strange warmth—an unfamiliar comfort that felt oddly familiar to Remy.Pain radiated through his body as he struggled to sit up. His eyes fell on Mandy, who was asleep beside his bed. Her hair was a mess, and her swollen eyes suggested she'd been crying. She was sound asleep. Remy stiffened. His breath quickened as he stared at her fragile figure. Slowly, he leaned forward, his fingers lifting slightly, tempted to reach out.Just as his hand hovered close, Mandy's lashes fluttered. In her sleep, she murmured, "Damien… Damien… I miss you so much…" Tears slipped down her cheeks, silent and unbidden.A pang tugged at Remy's heart. Without thinking, he brushed away her tears with his calloused fingers. The moment his skin touched hers, a jolt shot through him, sharp and electrifying. Pain throbbed at his temples, but beneath it was a warmth he didn't want to let g
Justin's casual question hit Javier like a thunderclap. Shock rippled through him, freezing his expression. His voice trembled with fear as he barked, "What nonsense is that? Are you accusing me of causing Chester's death? I'm your father—how could you think I'd do such a thing?""It's not an accusation. Just the facts," Justin replied coolly, crossing his legs and savoring his tea with unsettling calm. "And I'm not condemning you. In fact, I understand why you did it. I'm facing the same dilemma now."Javier's breathing grew ragged. He had watched Justin grow from a child into the man before him—now a predator, circling with quiet menace."You were meant to be the heir as the eldest son," Justin continued, his voice smooth as silk. "But Grandpa favored Uncle Chester, handing him major projects, grooming him in plain sight. "Uncle Chester's reputation soon eclipsed yours. He was a natural leader, adept at business, with one fatal flaw—he was kind. Too kind. Unlike you."Justin
Nonetheless, night had fallen by the time Justin arrived at Seaview Manor. On his way there, he worked on two things. First, he secured the top legal team to get Sheryl out on bail as quickly as possible. Second, he tried reaching Remy—unsuccessfully. He had never lost contact with Remy before. Justin's face was as dark as the night itself. The moment he stepped inside Seaview Manor, Rory approached with a solemn expression. He gave a slight bow before speaking. "Mr. Justin, what took you so long? Mr. Javier has been waiting.""I was occupied," Justin replied coolly. Then, as if it were an ordinary evening, he allowed a faint smile. "Where's Jasper? Is he back here yet?" A conflicted look came across Rory's face. "Things between you and Mr. Jasper have soured. I doubt he'll want to see you anytime soon—or show up here.""Is that so? How disappointing."Justin's smile didn't reach his eyes. His gaze lingered on Rory, sharp and bottomless. "So, he'd rather believe what he se
Jonah scoured every corner of the hotel, desperation clawing at his chest, but Julien was nowhere to be found. "Jonah!" Alyssa called out, breathless as she caught up to him. She grabbed his arm. "Calm down! I'll help you search for Jul!""I can't find him. He's gone," Jonah murmured, sinking to the floor. His tears mixed with sweat, creating dark patches on the ground. "Lyse… I fear… if I can't find Julien this time, I'll lose him forever."The agonizing thought of losing the love of his life pierced him. "No, you won't!" Alyssa gripped his arm tighter, her voice trembling with conviction. "If Jul had given up on you, he wouldn't have come here today. The fact that he showed up means he still cares."Jonah's eyes were bloodshot, filled with a pain too deep to hide. He shook his head slowly. "Julien came back for Jasper. He did it because he's loyal… because he's a good friend. Not because of me.""He does care!" Alyssa insisted. "If he didn't, he would've faced you without fli