Alyssa wasn't yet fully recovered. She was still limping when she walked. Despite that, she wouldn't allow herself to lie in bed like a useless person. Even though she was still in crutches and her left leg was still in a cast after resting for a week, she insisted on getting discharged from the hospital.She didn't inform Winston and his wives on the day of her discharge. Still, seeing Jonah, Silas, Rose, and Sean show up to take her home warmed her heart. "Lyse, are you and Jasper really…" Rose clung onto Alyssa's arm, which had grown noticeably thinner. She welled up with tears. "Yeah. It's over," Alyssa said with a soft smile, sounding almost relieved. "We were once deeply in love, and that was enough. I have no regrets."The urgency in Rose's voice made her eyes redden. "How can you say that? After being with him for so long, he never proposed or gave you the grand wedding you deserved. He owes you so much! How can it end like this?""Rose, even if Jasper did owe me somet
It was no wonder Axel hadn't been around recently. It turned out that he had accompanied Amber for her plastic surgery. "I found one of the best plastic surgeons in the world," Axel said. He walked over and stood next to Amber. They gazed deeply into each other's eyes, as if all they could see was one another. He explained, "Initially, we wanted to restore her original face completely. But the previous procedures she had undergone had changed her face so much, even altering her bone structure. Because of that, even the best surgeon could only restore about 80% of her original look."Alyssa exclaimed in surprise, "Oh my word... She's already so gorgeous at 80%. Wouldn't she be a goddess at 100%?"Everyone laughed, turning the atmosphere into a livelier one. "It's okay if my original face can't be restored," Amber said with a bright smile. "I'm just happy to have a fresh start."Her new look wasn't as strikingly beautiful as before, but it exuded a gentle elegance. Her face no
The moment Rosie spoke, the atmosphere in the car came to a standstill. The air turned frigid.Alyssa and Sean exchanged terrified glances. Alyssa then asked, "Mrs. Rosie, you said he's mentally disturbed… What do you mean?" Rosie felt a slight twitch around her eyes as if she had fallen into a deeply unsettling memory. She took a deep breath and explained, "I've been working with the Becketts for almost 30 years. "Among all the staff at Seaview Manor, apart from Mr. Durham and Mr. Odom, who assists Mr. Javier, few have been here as long as I have."When I first joined the Becketts, I was tasked with serving Mrs. Beckett and Mr. Justin, though I wasn't their personal helper. I was simply following the lead helper, doing heavy manual labor like laundry. More conscientious tasks—pouring and serving tea and the like—were outside my job description then."Initially, I thought Mrs. Beckett didn't like me because I came from a humble village and seemed careless. I later realized that
Caroline was deranged, and Justin tortured and killed animals. To make matters worse, Zachary, the Dutton family's heir and Justin's uncle, had brutally murdered his own lovers.A horrifying thought struck Alyssa—Was everyone in the Dutton family mentally disturbed?Did Justin inherit Caroline's insanity, which explained his wild behavior?"Is it true that Justin isn't sane?" Sean shook his head in disbelief. "But he looks completely normal! His emotions are absolutely stable!""That's what scares me the most. I'm afraid he has been disguising himself all these years, suppressing his true nature just to get closer to Madam. I'm worried he might harm you!" Rosie exclaimed, her eyes brimming with tears."Justin's torture and killing of animals suggest he has violent tendencies and a cold-blooded nature. This behavior indicates antisocial personality traits, but it doesn't provide sufficient evidence of a mental illness."Alyssa took a deep breath to calm herself. She continued with
Instantly, Alyssa's waterworks were turned on. Warm tears of joy streamed down her cheeks. She knew it. She had always known it. From the moment she first saw Remy, she was certain he was Damien. Despite his cold, heartless, and distant demeanor, that familiar sense of kinship had left no doubt in her mind."Madam, what's wrong?" Rosie quickly pulled out a handkerchief and hurried to wipe Alyssa's tears.Alyssa forced herself to stay calm. In a low, steady voice, she asked, "Cyrus, have you told anyone else about this?"Having worked on many cases over the years, Cyrus knew how to maintain his composure."No," he answered. "This is big news. I've only told you. I haven't mentioned it to Dad or Mom.""Good. For now, we need to keep this between us. Don't tell Dad or Mandy."Alyssa's chest tightened, her eyes burning with intensity. "I'm worried we'll tip off the enemy. Worse still, the person controlling Damien might hurt him if his identity is revealed."Cyrus responded with e
Jasper had been feeling mentally exhausted for three days since his fainting spell at the hospital.During a regular corporate meeting, he even zoned out and started nodding off in front of everyone.He turned down all evening business parties and social events, opting to return to Seaview Manor with Xavier.Xavier's eyes were filled with concern as he trailed behind Jasper. "Mr. Beckett, you haven't been doing well lately. Would you like to go to the doctor's?" "Which doctor?" Jasper felt a heaviness in his body, a throbbing in his head, and a chill in the air that made him uncomfortable in a way he couldn’t quite explain. "Dr. Lovelace is gone. Who else can solve my problems?"Xavier, deeply worried, sighed like a father fretting over his son. "But if you keep ignoring this, what will you do if it gets worse? After today's meeting, the higher-ups were already whispering about you behind your back. If rumors start spreading...""I am not sick," Jasper replied, his breath labo
Jasper's eyes widened. In a low voice, he asked, "How did you know that?""Dr. Gillis isn't just an exceptional surgeon. When she was in Mosgravia, she also researched mental illnesses and related medications." Justin took a casual sip of tea. "I heard from Dr. Lovelace that you suffered brain damage after taking some unverified medication while you were with Jameson. "Since Dr. Gillis identified your symptoms, she may be able to treat you. Why not let her give it a try? It might bring you some relief from the pain."Jasper remained expressionless and replied calmly, "Thanks, Justin, but I'll pass.""If Dr. Gillis can help, you should go ahead with it." Javier's face brightened upon hearing this. "Dr. Gillis, I officially appoint you as Jasper's private physician! Don't worry about your salary. As long as Jasper recovers, I'll make sure you're well compensated."Jasper furrowed his brow in protest. "Dad, I don't need a private physician. Besides, Justin needs Dr. Gillis' care. Sh
That day, after Cyrus and Alyssa reached an agreement, Cyrus returned home to update Winston and Mandy.Winston had already assumed that Mandy had misidentified Remy, thinking it was just a result of her longing for Damien. He hadn't held out much hope from the start. Mandy, however, was devastated. Her disappointment ran deep, and her emotions were heavily affected.Initially, she was doubtful, but she eventually had to accept the truth. She spent three or four days in bed, overwhelmed with despair.It wasn't until Alyssa returned home that Mandy forced herself to sit up. She pressed on, asking once more, "Lyse... are you certain? Are you sure he wasn't Damien?"Tears brimmed in her eyes as she spoke.Thanks to her meticulous self-care, Mandy always appeared refined and younger than her years, but she looked noticeably aged after just a few days of sadness."Mandy, I understand exactly how you feel," Alyssa said, her voice thick with emotion. She held Mandy's cold hands tightly.
In the evening, Xavier drove Jasper to meet with Newton. Along the way, news broke out that Sheryl had been bailed out. Xavier slammed his fist against the steering wheel. "Damn it! Why is it so hard to get rid of that woman?" "She is Justin's right hand," Jasper said, eyes shut as he leaned back in his seat. His jaw tightened. "You could even say she knows more about his secrets than anyone. As long as she's useful, Justin won't discard her so easily. This is how he operates."Xavier shook his head, teeth gritted. "Where the hell did she even come from? When you had me investigate her, I found nothing. Her background was spotless. "What's in her past that Justin would go so far to keep it hidden? A man like him can have any woman he wants, yet he clings to her—some pretty-faced idiot who only seems to make things harder for him."Jasper's gaze turned glacial. Xavier's casual remark struck him.He was right. Justin wasn't short on capable subordinates. So why Sheryl?Was Sh
This time, the injection did not bring the excruciating pain that once made Amber wish for death. Her chapped lips trembled, and tears streamed down her face as she gazed deeply into Remy's eyes. He, too, looked at her, his expression unreadable yet intense. Between them, no words were needed."Damien… Thank you…" Though her voice was barely audible, the weight of her words sank deep into Remy's heart. For once, he did not object to being called Damien.The truth was, ever since Amber had been taken, an unbearable pressure had settled over him, making each breath feel like a punishment—every day since had been plagued by self-reproach and regret.If he hadn't stopped her that night and let her go sooner, could she have avoided Sheryl? Could she have been spared the torture and humiliation?"You should know that those who enter this place never leave. Most don't even make it out alive."Remy's gaze was unwavering. Taking advantage of the surveillance blind spot, he placed his
"Mr. Lexington," the doctor greeted respectfully, lowering his head slightly. Everyone at the base knew who Sheryl and Remy were. They were the ones in charge, the decision-makers. So, everyone obeyed their orders without question. To the staff unaware of the facility's true purpose, Sheryl and Remy stood at the pinnacle of the hierarchy. Unbeknownst to them, someone more powerful lurked in the shadows."How has she been these past few days?" Remy asked, his expression unreadable."She's had some adverse reactions, but there are no signs of organ failure yet. Honestly, I'm surprised. She looks frail, but her body is incredibly resilient—stronger than some men, even."The doctor scoffed. "But I'm not sure if she'll make it past her fourth injection today. Last month, four test subjects didn't survive beyond that point. Their bodies have already been sent to the incinerator." Remy's jaw tensed. His voice was husky as he said, "As I've instructed, this woman must be kept alive.
Xavier seethed as he took in the insincere smile on Justin's face. Deep down, he was cursing him with every profanity imaginable. "Whatever makes you happy."Ignoring Justin's dark gaze, Jasper kept his eyes fixed ahead as he strode past him.Out of nowhere, Justin chuckled and asked, "Did you really think you had people on your side during the board meeting?"Jasper halted, his eyes narrowing. "Grandpa tried his best to shield you, but his health is failing by the day. How much longer do you think an old man can protect you?"Lowering his gaze, Justin idly adjusted the ruby cufflinks on his sleeves. His voice was casual yet cutting. "And Lyse—after how ruthlessly you discarded her, do you still believe she'll stand by you no matter what? That she'll fight alongside you like before?"The intense midday sun accentuated the sharp, aloof, and pallid features of Jasper's face as he stood, unyielding, in its glare. His pulse quickened. Finally, he answered, his voice a low rasp. "R
As the board meeting concluded, the crowd gradually dispersed.News of Justin securing his position as president and Alyssa joining the board quickly spread through Beckett Group.After the meeting, Alyssa escorted Newton back to Crescent Bay while Jasper remained at the corporation to handle some matters.With Xavier accompanying him, Jasper strode toward the chairman's office, his expression cold and unreadable.Nearby, a few employees huddled together, whispering."Psst! Do you think Alyssa joining the board means she's teaming up with Jasper to take down our new president?""People have been saying they broke up since they haven't been seen together for a while," another speculated."But at the press conference, Alyssa openly condemned Mr. Justin. That looked like she was siding with Jasper. So, are they still together or not?""Come on, to people like them, personal feelings don't matter—only their own interests do. Even if they broke up, they can still work together if it
When Jonah reached the bedside, he leaned in slowly, giving Julien an unobstructed view of his tanned skin, well-defined abs, and that devastatingly captivating face. Reclining against the headboard, Julien found himself lost in Jonah's eyes. His breath hitched, and his mind momentarily blanked as Jonah's mesmerizing gaze locked onto him. What could he do? His heart still betrayed him, a frantic drumbeat against his ribs. He was a fool—a pathetic fool. Jonah braced his arms on either side of Julien's head, his dark eyes overflowing with a raw, possessive affection. It was as if he sought to consume Julien—just as he had last night."Julien, does it still hurt—" "Fuck you!" Julien's bloodshot eyes blazed as he swung his hand, landing a sharp slap across Jonah's face. The illusion of his frailty shattered. A crimson handprint bloomed on Jonah's cheek in a split second, the flesh puffing up visibly. But the sting barely registered. Not when the ache in Jonah's chest was alr
Justin frowned as a hint of surprise flashed across his dark eyes. He had assumed Newton's unannounced appearance at the board meeting—along with Alyssa's involvement—was a coordinated effort with Jasper to overthrow him as president. After mentally running through hundreds of countermeasures, the one possibility he hadn't considered was that everything would proceed smoothly in his favor. Javier was equally stunned, though this outcome aligned with his desires. Today, Justin wasn't merely his son but a constant shadow looming over him, a silent predator watching his every move and reminding him that his past actions weren't completely buried. Instead, this secret loomed like a ticking time bomb that could detonate at any moment, obliterating everything he'd built. And the person holding the detonator was Justin—his eldest son whom he had trusted above all others. With a dim gaze, Javier watched Justin rise to his feet amid the applause. Suddenly, Justin's voice seemed distant,
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,