Sean pondered about the possibility of it being something else. He had a flashback of Alyssa's wish to find a soulmate. He felt a squeeze in his heart as he heaved a long sigh.Right then, he spotted three black luxury cars driving in his direction. His eyes hardened when he saw the number plate of the Maybach leading the entourage.They were from the Beckett Group. It was Jasper's car!When the cars came to a stop, Xavier emerged from the front passenger seat and opened the car door at the back for Jasper.Jasper extended his long legs and stepped out in his spotless handcrafted leather shoes. He sternly buttoned his sleeve as he made his way out."Fuck! What bad luck to run into him!" Sean silently cursed when he saw Jasper's handsome face.A few seconds later, a pale hand appeared from the Maybach. "Jasper, can you give me a hand?"After some deliberation, Jasper reached out for Liana with a frown. She hurriedly held onto his firm hand, worried that he might change his mind a
Sean and Jasper tensed up in confrontation."Oh, Mr. Beckett. I wonder if I should call this a pleasant coincidence or bad luck," Sean was smiling but harsh with his words."Is Alyssa Taylor in there?" Jasper questioned with a scowl. Liana's heart was racing, and she went numb at the mention of Alyssa's name."Why? Can't she be here?" Sean smirked and retorted, "It's not like you booked the entire garden to yourself.""Tsk, Mr. Beckett did nothing except ask a question! What's with your attitude?" Xavier chided Sean."Really? It's pretty shameless of you to make that claim. You're giving me second-hand embarrassment," Sean mocked him with a frown."You—""Enough, Xavier," Jasper stopped Xavier. Then, he questioned flatly, "What's Alyssa doing here?"Sean's cold gaze swept past Liana, who was clinging to Jasper. With an arched brow, he snickered. "She's here for the same reason as you are!"Jasper's frown deepened after learning that. Alyssa had indeed developed an interest in
Alyssa had always been like that. She would be completely focused on an object of her interest and fall into a world of her own.Suddenly, it occurred to her that Jameson was waiting for her. She quickly spun around to find him patiently standing on the side, this time with a straw basket in his hand filled with pink roses that carried an understated beauty.The breathtaking charm of the flowers reminded her of a quote from Wislawa Szymborska, which said, "Only a rose blooms as a rose, no one else.""Ms. Taylor," Jameson addressed her while approaching with the flower basket."Oh, don't step in here! Be careful not to dirty your clothes!" she hurriedly stopped him when she noticed his sparkly clean outfit. However, he made his way through the thorny shrubs in an attempt to get to her.She pursed her lips in embarrassment."Ms. Taylor, this is for you." His eyes were as soft as the sunset colors when he handed her the basket."Thank you, but I can't accept your gift," she turned
Jasper, looking grim, was experiencing an emotional rollercoaster at the moment. Alyssa did not share the same sentiment. She merely felt unlucky to have run into him.Bumping into Jasper in the lovely rose garden was akin to stepping on dog shit—a mood killer. She secretly grumbled, thinking that she might need to start reading her fortune of the day before leaving her house.Liana, clinging tightly to Jasper, was an eyesore to Alyssa.Jameson leaned closer to Alyssa and chuckled into her ear. "Don't panic. I'm here for you."Feeling ticklish, she thought, "What's there to panic about? I'll take things as they come.""Ms. Taylor, what a coincidence!" Liana was no longer the belligerent young lady from before. She asked softly, "Is this gentleman your boyfriend? You make a perfect couple."Alyssa had a deadpan look in her eyes. She obviously wanted to ignore Liana. However, Jameson replied, "Thank you for your compliment. Though, I'm not her boyfriend yet."Alyssa had not caug
Jasper's entourage stared at each other in shock, especially Xavier, who looked like he was struck by lightning.Noticing Jasper's grim expression, Liana tried to be thoughtful and quickly comforted him. "Jasper, don't worry. It's just a rose garden. You can still reach out to the many rose gardens across the country."Jasper removed his arm from her grip while she was talking. The impact of his movement caused her to stumble backward in an embarrassing moment."Let's go, Mr. Schmidt." Alyssa didn't bother to take another look at Jasper and Liana. She beamed gently at Jameson instead."Sure. I've made a reservation at the restaurant. We can leave at any time now."Jasper felt suffocated when Alyssa and Jameson exchanged smiles. His brows knitted in anger as he stepped forward to stand in Jameson's way."Mr. Schmidt, let's talk in private." Jasper did not falter even after he had lost the deal."If this is about the rose garden project, I have nothing more to discuss with you." J
As the visitors gradually exited the rose garden, only Alyssa and Liana were left behind in the endless sea of roses.In the fading light, Alyssa's bare face looked as luminous as the moon, to the envy of Liana. Putting aside their grudges, Liana had to admit that Alyssa was an extraordinary beauty. Alyssa's beauty evoked fear and resentment in Liana. After all, Alyssa had spent three years under the same roof with Jasper, despite their relationship being a sham marriage.She bit the bullet and went up to Alyssa while flicking her straight hair. She no longer looked like the frail woman when she was around Jasper. She flashed Alyssa a victorious grin."You found a new lover pretty fast. Quite skillful, aren't you? You should have done that sooner. No matter how much you bother Jasper, he will not take another look at you."Alyssa stared at Liana, as though she was staring at a madwoman. "Why would I want his attention like a peacock?"Liana choked and silently cursed at Alyssa.
Alyssa stated, "You could get plastic surgery or change your name, but you'll never cover up your past no matter how hard you try. "The clues will show up if we look closer. I choose to keep my silence, not because I am nice. I couldn't be bothered because it's none of my business, that's all."If you try me again, don't blame me for airing your dirty laundry."Liana felt her heart tighten. She was sickened by Alyssa's threat, as though she was sucked dry.…Alyssa and Jameson were gone when Jasper emerged from the rose garden. After the conversation with Jameson, Jasper stood alone like a statue in the chilly breeze for a while.The night had fallen. Jasper arranged for Liana to be driven back to the hospital while he returned to Seaview Manor with Xavier.During the trip, Xavier sweated profusely and apologized furiously to Jasper with a reddened face. "Mr. Beckett, I'm so sorry! Punish me in any way you want! It's all my fault for not doing my research and failing to recog
Jameson arranged a molecular gastronomy dinner for Alyssa, the perfect meal for someone who loved a surprise.The air-flown bluefin tuna was fresh and succulent. The fish and chip amuse-bouche served was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Additionally, the blackfish was extremely fresh and melted in her mouth. In conclusion, every single dish that night was amazing.After enjoying the good meal, she ordered some alcohol. Drinking helped to liven the air.Jameson and Alyssa, both knowledgeable, conversed about a wide range of subjects, including literature, music, and video games. He was able to chat about any topic.What surprised her the most was that they played the same asymmetrical multiplayer game. Both of them loved playing the role of killer.Alyssa chatted animatedly on the topic of games. Her face was flushed as she gestured wildly in growing excitement.He merely offered simple replies with a doting smile, allowing her to babble on.After he wined and di
Alyssa followed Jasper into the study. The door closed behind her with a soft click. She didn't move to switch on the lights or sit down. Instead, she stood quietly in the dim room.They faced each other, eyes locked. In the darkness, their gazes seemed brighter, charged with emotions that neither could put into words. Whatever stirred within them was tangled and silent—kept at bay by something unspoken, as if a wall had formed between heart and mouth. After a pause, Alyssa offered a faint smile. Her voice was soft, almost courteous. "Go ahead, Mr. Beckett. I won't be staying long tonight—I've made other arrangements."It was clear she didn't want to be alone in a room with him.Jasper's chest tightened, overwhelmed by a surge of emotion he couldn't define. His voice was rough when he finally spoke. "You didn't vote against the motion at today's board meeting. I wanted to know… are we still on the same side?"Alyssa's gaze lowered, her voice steady and calm. "You didn't object
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