The man's name was Curtis Halloway. The documents included a surgical history stating this man had undergone full facial plastic surgery before.However, Alyssa recognized the man's face pre-surgery. It was the same man from the information packet Silas had given her. Curtis was Liana's personal trainer and lover during her time in Mosgravia."It's him! He's the one who was involved with Liana!" Alyssa exclaimed, her excitement evident. Jonah cleared his throat uncomfortably. "Be mindful with your words, Lyse.""I was right!" Alyssa grinned. "I knew it! I knew Liana was the one behind this!"Jonah's gaze hardened once again. "Looks like I underestimated just how vile that bitch can be.""I don't understand why this man would go all out and get plastic surgery," Alyssa sneered. "Why give up his looks after going back to kiss Liana's ass?""Read through the rest of the papers," Jonah advised her.Alyssa turned to the next page, finding a contractual agreement between Curtis Hall
"What are you smiling at? Do you think this is a joke?" Javier snapped. Jasper replied, "Yes, I do.""You've crossed the line, Jasper Beckett!" Javier roared, slamming his fist on the table."You want me to marry her so the company's reputation can stay intact. I would applaud you for the quick thinking, really. But if we're arguing about personalities, then I can only say 'like father, like son.'"His lips curled into a sneer."What … What are you …" Javier tensed up instantly."Liana used to be the woman of my dreams, yes. But I can no longer convince myself to marry her." Jasper looked away. "Still, she saved me. If it weren't for her, I wouldn't have lived to this day. I will repay her with this. After she recovers, I'll break up with her.""You … You want to break up with Liana?" Javier cried in disbelief."Yes," Jasper replied without hesitation. "Do you think she could handle that news, Jasper? She has serious depression and took her own life because of the marriage p
Jasper walked out of the study, his chest so heavy it might shatter under the invisible weight. He had come to realize that Alyssa felt like a red-hot burn in his heart. She was something he didn't dare touch or think about, lest he wanted pain to course through his entire being.But beyond this, what he didn't want to think about the most was that Alyssa once loved him.Jasper had always been a person of pride. Even in his childhood, when he endured hunger and hardships, he never resorted to begging. He had even gambled with Alyssa, not for money, but for pride. Now, he couldn't help but admit that he had lost."Mr. Beckett," Xavier came up to him, saying, "I have three things to report to you, sir."Jasper hummed in acknowledgment, signaling Xavier to proceed. "Ms. Liana has awakened from her rest, but her condition isn't too good. She's repeatedly asked to see you.""Next.""Mr. Javier has employed a prominent lawyer to defend Sophia Kirkman. She'll be released tomorrow
Jasper had long heard about KS Group and Schmidt Group's joint ventures, both in the country and overseas. Additionally, the family heads had cultivated a close friendship spanning more than two decades. Jasper pondered whether this meant that Alyssa had known Jameson since her childhood. He contemplated whether their close bond had its roots in their shared childhood. Xavier sighed, a look of envy and admiration in his eyes. "Ms. Alyssa truly is blessed. Her father dotes on her so much that he surrounds her with all these elites. Even someone like Sean Lynch is only her personal assistant."He then eyed his boss, feeling pitiful on his behalf. Jasper's title as CEO and soon-to-be VP of the board of directors seemed minute accomplishments compared to the grandiose Alyssa was steeped in.Even blind men would be dazzled by her!A vein in Jasper's temple was throbbing. He leaned against the wall, hands slowly curling into fists. "First the Lynch family, then the Schmidts … What the
Jonah carefully watched his sister as she spoke. Alyssa was an opportunist, always seizing whatever chance she got, even if that meant breaking the rules of the game. One small opening was all she needed to turn the tide in her favor and strike down her enemies.Curtis appeared puzzled for a moment, not expecting that question."It looks like you know the answer." Alyssa sneered."I … I do …" Curtis swallowed nervously. His voice shook as he said, "Because … the child is mine."Both Alyssa and Jonah tensed up in surprise. Alyssa flexed her hands excitedly. They had caught a big fish!Jonah snapped, "Details. Now.""Liana frequented the gym in Mosgravia, where I worked as a personal trainer. She was so sexy, always batting her eyes and trying to seduce me. One thing led to the other, and we started sleeping together …"Alyssa cocked an eyebrow. "Go on.""We both know this was purely transactional, friends with benefits and nothing more. Liana always had other men to play aroun
It appeared that Curtis had acted impulsively, which explained why he had landed in his current predicament. It seemed like he was in desperate need of money.Alyssa couldn't help but think that Curtis was a real shithead."Don't do anything to Alyssa Taylor yet. Wait for my call." Liana's voice was sickly sweet, oozing with glee. "Things are looking up right now. I've gotten Jasper's attention on me all over again. "He's been by my side these past few days. Mr. Javier promised the marriage would go on, too. The wedding should be any day now."At the mention of the wedding, Jonah glanced at his sister, worried for her emotions.But Alyssa seemed unaffected. In fact, she barely looked bothered.Jonah smiled lightly, feeling glad."Since you two are going to marry, then that five million you promised—""Why are you in such a hurry? Geez!" Liana scoffed. "That's barely any money. I'll send you half a million first. Then, when Jasper and I marry, I'll pay you the remainder.""The
"What's wrong, Sean?" Alyssa asked, feeling worried now. She had never seen Sean so pitiful and upset. His eyes were reddened, his lips as pallid as a stray pup rescued from the gutters. "Is this about Sophia?" Jonah asked, walking over to them. His gaze was kind as he rubbed his hands clean with a cotton cloth.Alyssa noticed there was redness on it and sighed internally. She still couldn't stop her brother from taking revenge in the end. She cursed silently, pondering when her moment to shine would finally arrive. "I'm sorry … I'm so sorry!" Sean cried, nearly sobbing.Just as Alyssa was wondering what was going on, her second brother called."Silas?""Sophia Kirkman just left my custody, Lyse." His tone was more exasperation than anything else. "My team tried all we could to gather information and evidence on Sophia's crimes these past few days, but she seemed to have already prepared her defenses. "Her cousin is taking responsibility for all crimes. Javier has also found
"Find Liana's daughter. I need to set the bait beforehand, though." Alyssa narrowed her eyes slyly. "Curtis said only Liana's mother, Rosaline, knows her whereabouts, so we'll have to let her lead the way for us."Jonah smiled. "What about Liana Gardner?""Those whom God wishes to destroy, he first makes mad." Alyssa sat back, yawning. "Isn't she about to marry Jasper Beckett? We can't make her crash and burn without first letting her sit in the high seat."Jonah pursed his lips, suddenly recalling what Curtis had said earlier. "Jasper Beckett is a blind, foolish man, Lyse.""I couldn't care less. I've regained my sight regardless, so he'd better stay out of my way."Alyssa took out her phone, recalling the pictures she had taken of Jameson from days ago. "By the way, see if you recognize this guy. He saved me from a potentially serious injury when Curtis attacked earlier today.""Really?" Jonah said, "We'll have to properly thank him then.""But he has been quite mysterious and
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,