Alyssa breathed heavily, feeling anxious. "The most important thing now is to find Taty. She's really crazy. How could she expose this live? She's throwing herself into the abyss!"Jasper's heart clenched as well.No one understood better than he and Alyssa what it was like to be thrust into the spotlight. One wrong move, and they would be sent plummeting from the heights to their downfall."Ms. Alyssa!" Sean ran up to them. His voice was hoarse from the urgency. "Taty is still livestreaming, and the viewer count has exceeded two million! Why... Why would she suddenly expose this? What did Mr. Cyrus say to her?"Alyssa stared at the screen, where Tatiana sat upright. Though her expression was pale, she looked serious. Her eyes were shining with unwavering determination.Seeing that, Alyssa felt like her heart was being crushed by a pair of giant hands, spasming with pain.Meanwhile, below the livestream, the comments were flooding in at such a rapid pace that it was dizzying. But
Tatiana struggled to hold back her tears, but her voice still broke. "I'm one of the lucky ones among the victims, but I refuse to stand by and watch. When no one speaks up for me, I'll speak up for myself."When no one stands up, I'll stand up for them. I may not be a hero. But even if I might be in danger, I'll never stand by and watch David, that beast, trample on the innocence and dignity of those ladies while he roams free."As her words trailed off, Alyssa's eyes were filled with tears. Her tears eventually fell onto the screen.She deeply regretted her narrow-mindedness during this time. At the same time, she felt immense pride in her sister, who fearlessly spoke out.Sean turned away as well. His broad shoulders trembled as he suppressed his tears. He quietly rubbed his eyes."Lyse, Taty has really grown up. She's no longer the little girl who needs your protection." Jasper sighed, feeling sorry for Tatiana and also relieved.Alyssa managed a smile through her tears. "Yea
"Lyse, Jasper…" Tatiana, nestled in Sean's embrace, lowered her voice, drooping her head guiltily.Alyssa pretended to be angry as she put on a stern face. "You're all grown up now, right? Acting first and reporting later.""Ahem... Lyse, Taty didn't report anything, though."Jasper blinked his eyes, stupidly adding, "It was you who cleverly discovered that the layout of the livestream room looked like your hotel. You called the front desk to check the guest information to find out Taty was here.""So, should I scold her?" Alyssa glared at him sharply.The dignified Jasper shut his mouth at once.Well, there was nothing he could do. He was the one who made himself a henpecked husband anyway."Lyse, I'm sorry. I know I was wrong." Tatiana sniffled, then steeled herself and spoke with determination. "But even if you're angry at me, I have no regrets about the choice I made today."Lyse, do you know? It's been a long time since I felt so proud of myself. I feel like I'm doing some
Tatiana, who moments ago displayed the demeanor of a heroine, suddenly wilted upon knowing it was her father calling. She lowered her head."It's okay, Taty."Sean embraced her tightly, gazing at her with resolute but affectionate eyes. "I'll be with you. I'll go home with you. If Mr. Taylor wants to scold you for this, I'll take the blame for you.""H-How can you do that? Dad's very scary when he's angry," Tatiana mumbled, feeling nervous.Sean chuckled softly. "I'll say… 'Dad, if you want to vent your anger, take it out on me. Don't ruin your relationship with Taty.'"Tatiana's heart skipped a beat at his words. She felt a tingling sensation coursing through her body. Her fair face flushed, making her look so adorable that Sean couldn't take his eyes off her.While this young couple discussed their plans earnestly, Alyssa was at her wits' end.She wasn't afraid of Winston. She was worried that he would blame Tatiana and ground her at home. This would make life for this young c
Tatiana turned pale. She cautiously took the phone and pressed it against her reddened ear. "Dad...""Taty, your livestream has caused quite a stir outside. But you're quite smart to choose our own hotel. You must have learned such a cunning move from Lyse, right?" Winston mocked."N-No..." Tatiana was afraid and became tongue-tied. "Dad, I'm sorry. It's all my fault. Please don't blame Lyse.""Feeling any better after venting all that frustration?"Winston's sudden question caught Tatiana off guard. "What?""I know that matter has been weighing on your heart. Your mom almost cries every night in her room because of it."If standing up tonight and exposing David's heinous act can make you feel better, then I fully support your decision." Winston's deep and gentle voice was like a soothing balm as if he were afraid of scaring his timid daughter.A strong wave of emotion surged, causing Tatiana's eyes to turn red. "Dad... I...""Good girl, don't cry and don't feel guilty. You wer
Tatiana's livestream stirred up a huge uproar.With insufficient evidence, David had been released on bail. The Schmidt family had also successfully diverted public attention and suppressed the matter by exposing the scandals of two celebrities.However, out of everyone's expectation, Tatiana, who should have suffered in silence, openly spoke for those women and launched a fierce attack on David as a victim.The Schmidt family was once again thrust into the spotlight overnight. For David, who believed he had dodged trouble, this news was anything but good. Even without evidence, the prospect of being under police surveillance again was a nightmare."Damn it! This is outrageous!"The furious Victor swept everything on his desk to the floor. "The daughter of a mistress dares to challenge us openly? Does she think she's some kind of highborn lady?"Josh gritted his teeth beside him, agreeing, "What's she got to copy Alyssa's way of doing things? Forget about others. I don't think
"P-Police? Those lowly pawns are back again?"The days David spent in the detention center were hell for him. He never wanted to go back to those days of eating poor food and enduring the stench. He was scared out of his wits. "Dad! Josh! You have to stop them!"Victor's face darkened as he paced back and forth in anxiety."David, don't panic."Josh walked over and patted his trembling shoulder. "I've got people keeping a close eye on those two girls. So far, there's been no contact with the police, indicating they don't plan to testify. As long as they stay silent, we might be able to minimize the impact on your case."Tatiana's livestream yesterday gained so much attention, so the police have to at least put on a show and investigate you. Or else it'd look like they're not doing their job. Let's go see what they want first."…The Schmidts descended the stairs. The moment they saw the newcomer, they were stunned.In the living room stood Cyrus and two of his subordinates. His
"No matter how bad the coffee at the station might be, at least it won't harm my body. I wouldn't dare drink anything from your house. Who knows if they might rot my stomach or my heart? It's not worth it," Cyrus retorted to Josh's sarcasm."Cyrus, David's case has already been closed. It was you who released him! What are you doing here again?"Victor was too annoyed to bicker with him. His eyes were red from rage. "You can't arrest David without evidence. I'll never let you do that."Also, we're not some losers you Taylors can push around. I'm paying you some respect because of our long-standing relationship and because you're Winston's son. Don't try to push it."Winston's son?Their chief was the son of Belbanks' wealthiest man? Alyssa's brother?This revelation hit the two police officers like a meteorite falling to earth.Cyrus had been in the police force for many years. He was low-key and hardworking, never mentioning anything about his personal life or family background
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
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