"I'm sorry, Mr. Schmidt. I've been busy tonight, and I truly didn't know that someone had infiltrated. Please punish me."Amber immediately lowered her head, fearing that Jameson might discern her thoughts and reveal her secrets. "Hah, a flying thief? Interesting."Jameson lounged on the couch with his long legs crossed as he casually glanced at Amber standing stiffly. "I know someone who has that level of skill. You know him too, Amber.""Who?""The person you've been thinking about helping me get rid of."Amber's face turned pale. She clenched her lips tightly, and she felt as though blood was draining out of her body."Could there be such… a coincidence?" She tried her best to suppress her trembling voice."If we make a bold assumption, it's not impossible."Jameson tapped a rhythm on his knee with his slender fingers. "Josh is having fun here tonight. Maybe someone is eager for revenge and can't wait for Lyse to act, so they want to take care of that scumbag themselves. I
Jasper's face stiffened, and in his panic, the chicken pieces in his hand dropped into the oil pan with a thud.Splashes of oil flew onto his hands and arms, causing him pain. He suddenly regained his senses and awkwardly parted his lips. "Axel.""Do you always talk dirty like this?"Axel lightly scoffed and craned his neck to peek into the oil pan. "I don't know if Lyse smelled it or not, but I did come because of the smell. It smells like something's burned."Jasper was startled, and then he realized that he hadn't taken out the chicken pieces he had put into the pan earlier.He hurriedly grabbed a slotted spoon. But by the time he retrieved them, the chicken pieces had turned brown.Jasper's eyes drooped with frustration. Suddenly, he remembered the series of "fails" Winston had said when he first tasted Jasper's cooking. That voice was still ringing in his ears."Forget it. I understand your intentions. You don't have to force yourself to do something you're not good at. If
Alyssa continued, "You could have just ordered takeout. Why bother tiring yourself out?""It's not tiring if it's for you." Jasper's sturdy arms wrapped around her slender waist. He looked at Axel gratefully. "Besides, I didn't do much. It was all Axel's work.""Oh, make them crispy, Axel."Axel clutched his chest, almost spitting blood into the pot. He didn't expect to experience Alyssa's favor for Jasper firsthand.With Axel's efficient work and Jasper's assistance, two plates of golden fried chicken were soon placed on the table.Meanwhile, Jasper's few failed attempts remained gloomily in the corner, like mistresses who couldn't be shown."Quick, Lyse, try my cooking."Axel propped himself on the table, smiling as he watched Alyssa with anticipation. "It's been so long since I made fried chicken for you. Try it. See if my skills have deteriorated."Alyssa grabbed a piece with her hand. She parted her crimson lips and took a big bite.It was crunchy and flavorful."This is
"That's perfect. I wanted to call them over too," Axel said suddenly, his gaze darkening. "I came back tonight for an important matter that I need to discuss with you all."…Silas and Cyrus rushed over. The three brothers and the couple gathered around the dining table, turning the small kitchen into a meeting room."Axel, we're here now. Stop beating around the bush and tell us what's so important," Silas urged as he gnawed on a drumstick.Axel retorted, "Silas, are you so impatient because you're on your period?"Infuriated, Silas threw a chicken bone directly at him.Axel easily dodged it and then tossed a folder onto the table."What's this?" the four of them asked in unison as they looked at it."You all said you wanted to avenge Jonah, right?"Axel's eyes turned cold as he tapped his finger on the table. "Inside here, there's enough evidence to bring down Josh."As soon as they heard the word "evidence", both Silas and Cyrus perked up.Alyssa immediately picked up the
Cyrus tightened his grip on the photo in his hand. "Lyse, now that I know about this and since it concerns Jonah, I'll definitely handle it strictly. Josh is finished for good this time."Silas nodded. "I'll start preparing once I get back too. Let's not alert the enemy. We must be sure before we make a move."After pondering for a moment, Alyssa asked curiously, "Axel, where did you get this evidence from? Jonah's case only came to light two days ago. You couldn't have collected so much information in such a short time."Axel's gaze was deep, like an impenetrable primeval forest. "The night before last, I went to The Millennium. Josh was there that night, so I wanted to confront him and avenge Jonah."Alyssa's and Jasper's hearts skipped a beat at his words.To others, The Millennium was a paradise on earth. But to Axel, once Jameson discovered him, it could become the place of his death.If Jameson caught the chance, he would kill mercilessly, regardless of whether or not Axel
Axel's resolute words sent shivers down Silas' and Cyrus' spines.When Axel made up his mind to be heartless, he would cut off his feelings. Though he was wandering outside, he still harbored resentment toward Winston. It was enough to show how stubborn he was and how heartless he could be."Axel, there's no need to be so ruthless." Unexpectedly, Alyssa shook her head indifferently."As long as she shows remorse and is ready to break free from Jameson's control and join us, I won't make things difficult for her."Axel looked surprised. "Lyse, are you saying—""If she's willing to switch sides and work with me, I'll gladly accept her and arrange a position for her in a subsidiary of KS Group. She won't have to live like that in The Millennium, selling herself."This statement surprised even Jasper. "Lyse, do you really mean that?"Silas frowned. "Although that woman helped Axel and provided us with this evidence, there's a chance this could be a trap set by Jamiper and her just t
When Jasper heard that, he couldn't help but smile. He was still not used to her calling him her husband, but he loved it nonetheless. "Sigh... You have a husband now. I'll have to prepare two gifts from now on. It's going to be a big expense!" Rose pretended to sigh."Haha! You don't have to buy anything for him, just for me. Think of him as the free gift that comes with your purchase." Alyssa's laughter was clear and pleasant.Rose laughed heartily. "Alright."Jasper was completely speechless.What? So he was just a free gift after all this time?After a brief joke, Rose asked with concern, "Lyse, are you really okay? Is there anything I can help with? Don't hesitate to trouble me. I'll do my best to help you. I feel really sad when you keep things from me.""Most things have been resolved now, and my father's condition has stabilized. Jonah and Julien will take him to Mosgravia for further treatment soon. Thanks for your concern."At the mention of Julien, Rose said, "Speak
The moment Jasper turned around, Alyssa grabbed his hand and looked at him with her beautiful eyes.Her cheeks flushed with a tempting blush as she coquettishly asked, "Do you have to go now? Can you bear to have me bathe alone?"Jasper's Adam's apple bobbed, and his eyes were filled with desire. The veins on his hand bulge, subtly twitching."I can't bear to, but for the past two days, you haven't been sleeping well because of me. If we do it again tonight, I'm afraid your waist won't be able to handle it."As soon as he finished his sentence, a glint appeared in Alyssa's eyes. With a gentle flick of her fingertips, the only bath towel left on her slender body slipped off completely.In an instant, Jasper's breathing became heavy. His already weak willpower shattered at once.He lowered his eyes and kissed Alyssa's soft lips passionately. While doing that, he unbuttoned the buttons of his shirt.However, he only managed to unbutton one as he tore the rest open. Expensive crysta
The snow was falling heavily, and the chilling winds howled through the night.Remy had no car, so he trudged through the snow alone, each step more exhausting than the last.His thoughts were consumed with Alyssa—was she still alive? In danger? And Jasper's unrelenting resolve to reach her, even after being shot and drenched in blood.Remy pressed his calloused, trembling hand to his chest. His heart hammered in his ribcage erratically.A sharp, searing pain shot through his temples, blurring his vision. He collapsed to his knees in the snow, his body racked with agony. The pain surged deep within him, and his eyes felt like they were going to burst from their sockets. It was unbearable.His breath came in ragged gasps. His hands scrambled for the necklace hanging from his neck—inside it was a hidden medicine box.Justin had told him that the medication in there could calm him down and relieve him of any pain. It would be able to save his life. But in his desperate haste, the
As subtle as Remy's expressions were, Jasper still noticed them. A slight twinkle flashed across his eyes. He did not have the time to continue entertaining Remy. He clenched his teeth, turned around, and started running toward Crater Mountain. Nevertheless, he had barely taken a few steps when gunshots were fired at his feet. Even so, Jasper kept his eyes fixed ahead and did not stop. Just then, another gunshot rang out. It wasn't until a bullet hit him in his right shoulder that the pain caused him to stumble. He almost fell to the ground but forced himself to stay on his feet. It was fortunate that he was shot in his right shoulder this time. After all, his left shoulder could not be injured any further. Otherwise, his left shoulder would be left in complete disability."If you take another step, the next shot will be in your left leg," Remy warned mockingly. Yet, his gaze was firm and fiery. "Jasper, I don't suppose you want to end up like your older brother, living in
A chill went down Jasper's spine. At that moment, staring down the barrel of the gun, one thought consumed him. It was the only thought that mattered—he had to stay alive to meet Alyssa!Jasper's mind raced. His gun was hidden under the driver's seat of his usual car, but today, he had taken a different sports car—one that wasn't equipped with a weapon. Panic gripped him for a split second before his instincts kicked in.The soldier within him stirred. Without warning, he jerked the steering wheel, ramming his car into Remy's.One of Remy's headlights was taken out and left rolling across the snow. All of a sudden, this prideful man was overwhelmed with anger. His eyes reddened with a strong sense of competitiveness, compelling him to pull the trigger. A shot rang out. The bullet sliced through the cold air, shattering Jasper's car window.From the very beginning, Remy hadn't intended to take Jasper's life. All Justin told him to do was to stop Jasper from meeting with Alys
"Jasper, you are such a jerk. If anything bad happens to Ms. Alyssa, you will surely regret it. You will live in regret your entire life!" Sean yelled. …The temperature tonight was -4 degrees Fahrenheit. The snowstorm in the woods on the mountain was getting stronger and stronger. The winds were freezing and bone-piercing as they blew against Alyssa's face. Trees swayed dramatically in the screeching winds, creating an inexplicable creepy atmosphere that added a feeling of desolation to Alyssa's sorrowful and depressive mood. She braved the bone-piercing winds and faced the heavy snowfall. With the help of her trekking pole, she plodded forward one step at a time. She did not have a destination in mind. She did not know where she was heading. Her heart had shattered, and she was beside herself. The decreasing temperatures discouraged her and made her lose all her motivation. For someone who had lost their willpower, being in the woods under extreme weather conditions wa
"Mr. Jasper, why do you say so?" Sheryl lifted her head and looked into Jasper's reddened eyes. She furrowed her brows and laughed out loud. "White Dove is from Solana City. This is also something that I wasn't able to predict. If I had known, I wouldn't have gotten you to make a trip here in vain, would I?" Sheryl was no longer that conniving bitch who used to act coy. Now, she had a powerful person backing her up. Jasper's violent rage did not scare her at all. "Why the hell didn't you say anything earlier?" Xavier marched forward furiously. He was even more inclined to serve her a slap. "Did you know that Mr. Beckett had an important date with Madam today? He only rushed her because of your stupid lead! Right now, you're telling us that White Dove isn't in Skydon but Solana City? What the heck are you scheming? Were you trying to ruin Mr. Beckett and Madam's date intentionally?" "Madam? Haven't Mr. Jasper and Ms. Alyssa broken up? Is it right for you to be referring to her
The skies started to turn dark. Alyssa's dark hair was covered in a layer of snow. As she stood alone at the foot of the majestic mountain, she looked tiny, fragile, and desolate. "Ms. Alyssa, it's snowing. Heavy snowfall is forecasted tonight." Elias walked to Alyssa's side. Noticing the redness on her face due to the cold and the dull look in her eyes, he had a moment of realization. He couldn't help but feel a wave of sadness within him. "It's getting late. I suppose something came up for Mr. Beckett, and he's unable to make it." "Why didn't he inform me if that is the case?" Alyssa mumbled in a low voice as she gazed toward the darkness. She choked back on her tears so softly that her grievance couldn't really be heard through her voice. Elias slapped himself on his forehead. "Ah, perhaps you didn't manage to receive Mr. Beckett's message? The reception at the foot of the mountain isn't quite stable. You might have missed it. Would you like to come to my office? You'l
Jasper held his breath. It felt as if his legs had been chained together. He was unable to move. Looking at a stiff Jasper from behind, Xavier noticed his shoulders trembling slightly. An ominous feeling rose within him. "What did you say?" Jasper questioned. He sounded as if he was forcing himself to hold himself back from getting emotional. "Mr. Justin once mentioned that you were saved by a female doctor when you were badly wounded on the battlefield many years ago. I heard that you have been searching for her and that you've been grateful toward her." Jasper's back stiffened up. He narrowed his eyes and asked in a frosty voice, "This is a private matter. Why would Justin have told you about it?" "Mr. Justin mentioned it to me because I also used to work as a doctor in Luminara. He was hoping that I could help with finding that woman. "I finally have news on her whereabouts now. Mr. Jasper, don't you want to see the White Dove again? She was the person who gave her all t
That night, Alyssa stayed in the presidential suite of Solana City's KS World Hotel. She couldn't bring herself to return to her own manor—not yet. The lingering memories of her breakup with Jasper were still too raw, and the thought of revisiting their former home felt like reopening an unhealed wound.The following morning, she was awakened by a knock at the door. Groggily, she slipped on her night robe and opened it to find Sean standing there, carrying a complete set of brand-new hiking gear.Alyssa smiled. "Thank you, Sean." "Ms. Alyssa, it's freezing today. Are you sure you want to go hiking?" Sean walked into the living room and placed the items neatly on the couch. He still felt somewhat worried. "It's alright if it's cold, as long as the weather is good."Alyssa gazed out the window. The sun was shining brightly. The thought of going hiking with Jasper today made it impossible for her to conceal the sweet smile on her face and the delight in her eyes. She still love
Remy's eyes were bloodshot; his expression twisted with disgust as he stared at Sheryl. He could hardly fathom how someone so deranged and vile had once been close to Jasper. Even if Jasper and Alyssa had separated, Sheryl was nowhere near worthy of Jasper's side; she was not even fit to be the dirt on Alyssa's shoes.A sudden flash of memory struck him—the image of Alyssa during that traffic accident. He recalled her mustering all her strength to crawl out of her wrecked car, her face bloody, her body broken yet defiant. He had never seen such a fierce spirit in a woman before.His heart pounded uncontrollably, the memory triggering a sharp pain in his temples. Remy closed his eyes, gasping for breath.Sheryl broke into wild, unhinged laughter. Her entire body shook as she spat out her words, "Oh, Jasper, you poor, clueless fool!"If he ever discovers that the woman he's been tormenting all this time is actually his savior—the one he's been desperate to repay—that would be an eart