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
After nearly a week spent in the Investigative Bureau, Sophia finally walked out, heaving her tired body like a lump of sand. Without her makeup and skincare routine, she seemed to have aged an additional decade. Even her hair had more gray strands than before.She avoided the crowd of reporters and decided not to go home first. Javier would probably pass out at the sight of her. So Betty accompanied her to a beauty parlor, where she could wash up, pluck away her gray hairs, and put on some makeup before going back."We'll go see Liana first." Sophia plucked away the hair around her lips as she spoke. "I have to check up on her. She's my niece, after all. That way, your Dad's image of me will maintain."She couldn't have her carefully crafted persona of twenty-five years crash just like that."I couldn't believe she pulled such a trick, Mom!" Betty cried. She hated Liana. Yet, she couldn't help but feel upset by the memory of that bloody bathtub. "Whether or not Jasper takes the ba
Sophia's face was lined with tears as she gazed sadly and lovingly at Javier. "I thought I'd never see you again. I've suffered so much, Javier. I was so scared …"Javier did not feel an ounce of pity for her right now. He had undergone too much these past few days to spend energy making her feel better. Just then, the news channel came on the television. It was news of KS Group's CEO, Jonah Taylor, signing the Verdane Valley project joint venture with Orlander Hodgson and his company. The two exchanged contracts, then shook hands as the reporters frantically took pictures of this historical moment. Jasper stared at the screen, hand slowly tightening around his glass. Javier's face was darkening at the same time.Their milk was spilled, and it was all because of Alyssa Taylor!Sophia's heart skipped a beat, and then she quickly grabbed Javier's arm. "Ms. Alyssa is too cruel to us! How have we offended her? She not only stole our company's project, but she even tried to send me t
Rosaline sat beside Liana, consoling her. "Your uncle spent a lot of money to hire Mr. Simon to save your aunt from the Bureau. Clearly, he cares deeply for her. "I'm sure now that your aunt is able to help, you'll definitely be able to marry Jasper! Hasn't he been coming over frequently? I'm confident your relationship has grown even closer!"She was grinning like a fox who had eaten the canary, feeling that her position as an in-law to the Beckett family was now 100% secure. Rosaline added, "You know what Jasper's temper is like. He would never have come if he didn't like you anymore.""I guess so … I just… don't feel good about all this," Liana said as she recalled the look Jasper had given her earlier today. "Yes, he's been by my side all these days, but it feels like he's changed.""That's enough. Don't go overthinking now."Just then, the door opened. It was Jasper.Liana swiftly put up her frail, meek mask. "Jas-Jasper …"Jasper went up to her side, his expression flat
Amber's eyes reddened as she darted toward the trapdoor in The Millennium, tears streaming down her face.Remy had let her go. He actually spared her! Didn't this prove that he was Damien? That his true nature lingered, even if his memories of the past had been lost?Hope and excitement bubbled within her as she ran. She had to reach Alyssa immediately and share this evidence—this incredible news!Emerging from the trapdoor, Amber navigated the tangled paths among the weeds on the mountain behind The Millennium.Suddenly, she froze. Her breath hitched. Beams of white light shone from all directions, focusing on her. The cold, unyielding spotlights told her everything—she was surrounded, the target of an ambush. Amber's heart pounded in her chest. Cold sweat slicked her palms as her fingers clenched tightly around her dagger. The veins on the back of her hand throbbed with adrenaline.Six assassins in black emerged from the shadows, their flashlights cutting through the gl
Amber glared at Remy through her bloodshot eyes, thrusting her gleaming blade toward his chest. In her early days of being Jameson's follower, the first lesson drilled into her was how to kill quickly and efficiently. Refinement wasn't necessary—only results mattered. Yet, despite mastering the techniques, she had never put them into practice. Deep down, Amber feared the sight of blood and loathed the idea of taking a life.And now, of all people, it was Remy forcing her to cross that line.The blade's tip hovered mere inches from Remy's heart when hesitation gripped her. Axel's voice echoed in her mind, raw with emotion. "Amber, I keep feeling that Remy is my fifth brother, Damien. We miss him… We want him to come home!"Her pupils dilated. The blade wavered, its deadly intent dissipating.That single moment of doubt was all Remy needed. With a calm, calculated motion, he seized her wrist and twisted it sharply.Amber gasped in pain, her grip faltering as the blade clattered
The password to Jameson's room was Alyssa's birthday. Jameson had always believed himself to be a devoted man, taking pride in that notion. Yet, in Amber's eyes, his devotion was nothing more than a pathetic joke—a sentiment she couldn't help but detest.Taking a steadying breath, Amber began rummaging through the drawers and shelves with swift precision.Years of observation had taught her that Jameson had hidden several secret compartments in this room, places meant to conceal vital information. Unless Jameson or Carl disclosed their existence, even the police might not have uncovered them.After what felt like an eternity, sweat beading on her forehead, Amber discovered a hidden compartment beneath a floor sculpture.As she pried the brick loose, her breath hitched. Inside the compartment lay a waterproof plastic bag containing a document and a USB drive.Amber retrieved the document. Her heart raced as she realized its contents—a research report from Mosgravia's RC Biotech
Ever since getting together with Axel, Amber had lived each day in bliss. Yet, when Winston assured her that he truly accepted her and approved of her marriage to Axel, that bliss reached its peak. For so long, Amber had struggled with feelings of inferiority, never truly believing she deserved Axel's love. Deep down, she had resolved to step away if Winston disapproved or insisted Axel marry a woman from a reputable family—a match more fitting of his status.She wouldn't have hesitated to leave if it meant sparing Winston and Axel any conflict. Amber loved Axel wholeheartedly and was willing to sacrifice everything for him.But instead of rejection, she found warmth. The Taylor family embraced her as one of their own, showing her kindness and understanding rather than disdain for her past.She could never repay such compassion. "Winston… Thank you. Thank you…" Amber's tear-filled eyes glistened, their brightness undimmed despite all the darkness she had endured. Winston s
Amber stifled a laugh and teased, "Stop talking, Mr. Whitaker. You're going to sound like a broken record if you keep going." …After breakfast and a quick packing session, Axel departed from Heightsnew Villa. Amber spent her day helping the Taylors with various tasks. She assisted Mandy in organizing documents for Lovelace Group's projects, helped Lyla with cooking, and even joined Colene in feeding her horse. With Tatiana's due date approaching, Amber also pitched in for her shower preparations.Amber had always been a diligent person, but today, she seemed particularly intent on keeping herself busy. She was counting down the hours until nightfall. After dinner, the Taylors sat in the living room and chatted casually as they always did. The warm, familial atmosphere filled the space, and Amber joined in, her perceptive nature making her a seamless part of the group.When everyone retired to their rooms, Amber rose to help the helpers clear the table. "Amber." Startled
Axel and Amber had only spent half a month together before the former was called back to report for work. The night before his departure, they spent hours lost in each other, their passion unrelenting. Again and again, they exchanged kisses, their love pouring forth in an endless tide."Amber, three months… Just give me three more months." When their fervor finally waned, Axel held Amber close in his arms. They rested against the headboard, leaning into one another, too exhausted to move yet unwilling to let sleep claim them."Once I finish all the missions I've taken on, I'll hand in my resignation. After that, I'll spend all my time with you," Axel murmured, his voice steady with resolve. "We'll go wherever you want. If you want fun, I'll have fun with you. If you want chaos, I'll spend my life going crazy with you."Axel wasn't one for flowery words. He simply spoke from the heart. Right now, his heart only wanted Amber—forever.Amber nestled closer, her soft smile masking t
"Sir." Sheryl immediately stood and greeted Justin respectfully as he entered the room. "What are you doing here?" Justin's cold gaze swept over her as he strolled leisurely to the couch and sat down.Sheryl quickly explained, "I received a parcel for you from the administrative secretary half an hour ago. I thought it might be something important, something you wouldn't want too many people to handle. So, I waited for you to return and open it personally.""A parcel?" Justin frowned. Why would anyone send him a parcel to Beckett Group, of all places? How strange. Sheryl presented the parcel to him with both hands. He took it from her and then opened it right before her. After removing three layers of wrapping, each from outside and inside the box, the parcel turned out to contain only a plain white envelope. His expression darkened. It felt like someone was toying with him.Then, he looked down and opened the envelope, which contained a stack of photographs. Pinching a co
"Don't be so pessimistic, Jonah," Alyssa said. Perhaps having just seen Jasper and going through that heart-stopping moment made Alyssa emotional. Tears welled up in her eyes as she continued, "If you truly love someone, you don't need to possess him to find happiness. Isn't it enough to know he's alive, well, and living freely somewhere in this world?""You're right, Lyse." Sorrow filled Jonah's voice as he smiled bitterly. "Julien has already lost and sacrificed too much for my sake. I don't deserve to have such a good man. He'll only find true happiness by leaving me."…After Justin took over as president of Beckett Group, his first move was to wrest control of the A5 Project bid from Jasper's hands.Though Jasper had failed as the leader of Beckett Group, as the eldest son, it was only natural for Justin to inherit the position of power. Justin was aware of lingering opposition within the corporation. Some doubted whether he possessed the decisiveness and singular capabili
Sebastian understood what Alyssa wanted. There wasn't substantial proof to prove that Jasper had abused drugs in the first place. The substance found in his blood was simply supporting evidence. As long as they found the right opportunity to reveal that, it wouldn't completely exonerate him, but it could at least divert public suspicion."Okay, okay… I'll do that. I'll do everything you say!" Sebastian promised. …After emerging from the Bender residence, Landon took Zayne away to keep him under close watch and ensure Sebastian wouldn't retract his statement. Landon planned to release him only after Sebastian fulfilled Jasper and Alyssa's request."Landon, it's really nice to see you. How's Lauren doing lately?" Afraid of looking at Jasper, Alyssa had no choice but to speak with Landon."She's doing great." A tender look came across Landon's eyes at the mention of Lauren. Landon blushed and continued, "We're now trying for a baby." "Really? That's wonderful!" Alyssa was