Winston continued, "This torturous approach doesn't seem like Jasper's style. It's more like Lyse's work."Mandy's eyes flickered at his words. At once, she linked arms with him. "Winston, it's getting late. You should go to sleep."…Alyssa was afraid that Winston might find her at her home in Solana City, and she didn't want to stay at a hotel. So she had been with Jasper in Landon and Lauren's home.Lauren was the happiest about that.She already had a deep fondness for Alyssa, and the infrequency of their meetings made her cling to her every chance she got. Given the opportunity, Lauren stayed by Alyssa's side every day.This left Jasper with only nighttime for some alone time with Alyssa.So, every night, he would connect with her in bed, refusing to stop until she was exhausted and begging beneath him. It was as if he was trying to compensate for any lost intimacy during the day.Alyssa was truly speechless. She had encountered penny pinchers but never someone so calculat
In the blink of an eye, it was the day of the press conference.At 5:00 pm, various media outlets gathered in the hotel's largest hall. Cameras were set up, angles were adjusted, and reporters had their laptops ready, waiting for Daisy's appearance."Speaking of which, I thought it would be Victor or Josh stepping forward. I didn't expect it to be Daisy. She's quite bold. Her husband is in jail, and she still has the energy to hold a press conference.""Those men in the Schmidt family are smart. They're using Daisy as a shield, making her the target.""Tsk, tsk! The rich really lack humanity. I pity Daisy.""Pity? Timothy received bribes of tens of millions, enough to keep him in prison. Do you believe that none of that dirty money found its way into her pocket?"Anyway, I don't. They're just abandoning each other in times of trouble."Soon, it was 7:00 pm.With a mournful expression, a bare-faced Daisy arrived, wearing a black suit. Lowering her head, she walked onto the stage
The Schmidt family had truly raised a bunch of maggots that were rotten to the core."N-No... It's not… It's not true."Daisy's face turned crimson, as if all the blood in her body had gathered in her face. She almost hysterically shouted, "That recording is fake! It's fake!"I don't know any fortune teller... It's not me speaking in there! It's all fake! Someone is framing me!""Framing you? Ms. Daisy, please take a look at this. How do you explain this?"The reporter held up his phone.At that moment, all the reporters' phones in the room started ringing, causing a thunderous noise.Everyone lowered their heads to look at their screens and saw a post suggested by Twitter. It was a video of Daisy meeting a fortune teller privately. She was handing money to the fortune teller.Even though the video was clearly recorded without her knowledge, it unveiled her underhanded actions entirely."Ms. Daisy!"Just then, a bodyguard rushed up, pulling the stiffened Daisy down from the s
Xavier continued, "What about you, Mr. Beckett? What will you reward me with?""Reward you? Isn't that your job as a secretary?" Jasper's voice carried a lazy tone, like a just-fed lion.Xavier blushed intensely from his wild imagination. "W-Well, Madam has rewarded me. Couples should be on the same page, right? Aren't you afraid that she'll say you're stingy?""Who do you think you're threatening?""No, no! I wouldn't dare." Sweating, Xavier immediately straightened his posture."You haven't had a break for a long time. I'll give you an additional ten days of annual leave. Go wherever you want and enjoy yourself.""Um... Mr. Beckett, I'm a bachelor. Even if you gave me annual leave, I wouldn't know what to do."Xavier grinned. "Mr. Beckett, how about... increasing my bonus? I won't take any more annual leave in the future. I'll work for you all year round, day and night, with my heart and soul. I'll be your and Madam's pet!"Jasper was surprised that Xavier was aiming for a bi
That night, inside the villa, two sweet couples sat in the living room. Their attention was directed at the news channel playing on the TV.After a few minutes, the news began. It was a highly anticipated program of the day—Daisy's arrest.The news report replayed the comical scene of Daisy being arrested by the police. It was still hilarious, even upon a second viewing."Hmm? That hot officer looks familiar. I think I've seen him somewhere." Lauren poked her finger at her chin.Suddenly, her eyes lit up. "Oh, I remember! He sat next to me at Madam Lyla's birthday party. He even chatted with me—"Before she could finish her sentence, Landon's eyes darkened. He couldn't help but grab her chin and land a domineering and passionate kiss on her soft lips. It was a fierce and jealous kiss.Meanwhile, Alyssa and Jasper were absorbed in watching the news. When they heard the amorous sound, they were momentarily stunned.Suddenly, Jasper moved his body, covering the explicit scene. Then
Alyssa continued, "Victor's sudden hospitalization may not be due to illness. It might just be a move to avoid trouble."Jasper nodded in agreement. "Once the prosecutor initiates the investigation process and summons Victor, he can claim illness to avoid interrogation.""Damn it! He's really cunning," Landon cursed angrily."Landon, what does 'threesome' mean?" Lauren asked, blinking her innocent eyes.Lauren was really good at catching the critical point. The three of them fell into a momentary silence.Landon awkwardly cleared his throat, pinching Lauren's cheek. "Uh... When we get back to the room, I'll slowly explain it to you."After a while, the news report concluded.The Schmidt family's affairs consumed a significant amount of time, catering to their flamboyant and high-profile personalities."They're really despicable... How can they force women to do such things?" Lauren's eyes turned red with anger. "The police officers must arrest them all! They must bring justice
Alyssa held onto Jasper's muscular arm, confidently raising her eyebrows. "As long as we don't take any further actions and maintain a low profile, Jamiper will be unable to contain himself and will find a way to deal with David."…The next day, when the stock market opened, Schmidt Group's stock prices showed a decline, as expected. The drop was so quick that it was a heart-wrenching sight.As the Clemons couple's legal battles unfolded, Schmidt Group's reputation took a nosedive, and the entire company began to display indications of internal turmoil.Victor continued his hospitalization on the third day while Josh was called in by the prosecutor.On the fourth day, Winston was cornered by the media when attending a meeting. He was asked about his views on the Schmidt family."Mr. Taylor, we heard that you have a close relationship with Mr. Victor. What's your opinion on the Schmidt family's recent situation?"Winston's expression was cold, and he responded indifferently, "Mr
Daisy's face was twisted with a hideous expression. She stared fixedly at Jameson's delicate yet detestable face."Help me? Haha! They're animals! But Jameson, aren't you one as well? Yes... You're worse. You're a damn viper. You're even more vicious!"Jameson showed no signs of anger. Instead, his smile deepened. "I may not be a saint, but even beasts show some affection for their offspring. I have always been reluctant to be too harsh on my family. So, I want to help you, Daisy."Also, besides me, who else cares about you? In this place where not even a glimpse of daylight is visible, do you believe people regard you as a member of the Schmidt family?"Seeing Daisy's strong resistance to his so-called "help", Jameson dealt a lethal blow."Daisy, think carefully. Your current miserable situation is all because of whom?"Daisy's anger surged. She shouted hysterically, "It's the Taylor family! They're retaliating against me. That bitch Alyssa is definitely involved!"Jameson smir
Justin curled his lips into a smirk, scoffing in silence. Newton had gone to great lengths to bring Alyssa into Beckett Group. This was his way of decentralizing power and keeping it in check, and he wanted to prevent Justin from having complete control. Unlike others, Javier couldn't hold himself back. He blew his top instantly, his face turning red like a tomato. "Dad, have you lost your mind? Don't you know who she is? She is KS Group's president—our direct competitor!"KS Group is also bidding for Project A5. No matter how much you favor her, you should at least recognize the limits. If you promote her, it's a blatant conflict of interest—outright cronyism!" Newton sneered. "I might understand your concern if I were promoting someone other than Alyssa."His gaze hardened. "Cronyism? A conflict of interest? I wonder who you're really talking about."With those words, he cast a knowing, enigmatic glance at Justin's blank expression. Just then, a board member from Javier's
Despite his age, Newton exuded the same energy and sharpness he had in his younger days, even when surrounded by the board members brimming with vigor. Despite his quiet presence in the wheelchair, an intimidating atmosphere clung to him. In an instant, Javier was transported back to the days when he worked under Newton's strict supervision."Good day, Mr. Javier and all fellow board members. I assume no one has any objections to my presence at this meeting?"Newton's gaze swept across the room, a perfunctory smile gracing his lips."Of course not. You are part of the corporation's board of directors!" the members responded immediately.Newton nodded. "Much has happened within the corporation lately. Our shares have been fluctuating amid the controversy. "As you all know, I had intended to retire after dedicating most of my life to this company. I wanted to step aside for the younger generation rather than hover over them like a specter, micromanaging everything. "However,
Jasper's arrival plunged the conference room into an uneasy silence, and heavy tension settled over the space. Justin looked up, his expression a frozen mask. A palpable chill emanated from him. Javier's eyes widened in surprise. "Jasper? What are you doing here?" "Even though I'm no longer the president of Beckett Group, I remain a shareholder and board member. It's only natural for me to be here," Jasper replied smoothly as he strolled to his seat. As he passed behind Justin, he abruptly stopped. Without a moment's notice, he struck the back of Justin's chair. The sudden impact made Justin flinch. "Am I right, Justin?" Justin's expression darkened. Forcing a smile, he replied, "As a board member, you have the right to attend, even if you're no longer involved in operations. There's no issue.""If that's the case, why wasn't I informed about this meeting?" Jasper lowered himself into his seat, legs slightly parted, exuding an air of indifference. Yet, beneath the nonc
Beckett Group was, in essence, Javier's heart and soul, forged from his own labor. "Justin set me up, framed me for drug addiction, and bribed my primary physician to give false testimony—all so he could drag me down. The fact that he dared to target me like this means he's willing to betray anyone."Jasper took a deep breath, forcing down the rage roiling inside him as Javier remained silent. "Fine. Even if you insist this is just a family matter, Justin's reputation is already in ruins, and the corporation's stock prices are fluctuating. Are you really going to stand by him, even now?""Justin has explained everything to me. He wasn't aware of the bribery. That female doctor who worked for him acted on her own. Besides, she's been arrested. The backlash against Justin will settle in time…"Jasper listened, his face unreadable, but his heart clenched painfully. A lump rose in his throat, suffocating him.He had lost his mother at a young age, but he had never longed for his fa
Julien's merciless, hate-filled words hit Jonah like a ton of bricks. The pain was unbearable, a gut-wrenching ache that shattered his heart.Under the dim lighting, Julien vaguely noticed a sorrowful tear forming at the corner of Jonah's eye. But before it could fall, Jonah forced a blink, swallowing his emotions whole. Despite Jonah's attempt to brace himself, sorrow engulfed him, a tidal wave of despair. His features mirrored the devastation ripping through his heart. As Evan opened the driver's side door, Julien lurched forward and vomited again. The sickening sound of him retching echoed in the air as if he were expelling everything inside him. "Judas, Mr. Lovelace looks like he's suffering from alcohol poisoning. We should take him to the hospital."Evan's worry deepened at Julien's condition. Jonah wordlessly removed his suit jacket and began cleaning the mess in the car. His chest tightened painfully as he watched Julien groaning, clearly suffering. Then, without he
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