Three days passed in a blur. News of Ada Kingsley's arrival in Solana City reached both national and international media in a blitz of reports.On the night of the welcoming party, Ada Kingsley arrived at Berenike Hotel dressed in a lavender haute couture gown, her hair styled into waves that cascaded down to her knees.Sophia had invited herself to the party. Her hair was styled in an elaborate bird's nest atop her head, revealing two large sapphire earrings and a teardrop-shaped sapphire at her neck. They were named "Halcyon" by its creator. It looked like she had a mini apartment building on her head."Didn't you have another piece of crystal prettier than this teardrop, Mom? Why aren't you wearing that one?" Betty asked curiously.Sophia gritted her teeth, hand clenching around her necklace. "Because of that bitch, Liana! God knows what she and her family got into, owing that much debt! "With my shop having no sales and the police still on the lookout, I had no choice but t
"But Mom, I'll be able to help you when I marry Landon." Betty was pale with shock at her mother's reaction.Sophia pursed her lips, eyes turning dark. She suddenly asked, "How far along is Zoe and Jasper?""What do you mean by how far along? Jasper seems to be still infatuated with that whore, Alyssa. Zoe has no chance whatsoever.""Good.""Mom?""Don't you see? This is a great chance to distance Landon and Jasper from one another!" Sophia prodded her daughter's forehead. She continued, "Landon is his father's only son. Even if his father is still leading the company and family, Landon is bound to take over the mantle sooner or later!"Using Zoe to form a rift between Jasper and Landon was a far better deal than having her marry into the family. "I know Jasper. He never surrenders no matter how much you push him. Regardless, Zoe will still become the thing that separates them in the end!"Betty looked in awe at her mother, now understanding her plan.Suddenly, a faint knoc
The headlines for the next three days were all about Ada Kingsley's visit to Solana City. The news had helped Berenike Hotel regain its footing in international recognition. They had enjoyed a reputation like no other for several decades, becoming the number one place to stay for all kinds of personalities. Their guests included diplomats, athletes, doctors, professors, and other world-famous bigshots. Even Cyrris' previous president stayed in this hotel once.However, its reputation had steadily soured as one scandal after another rocked the Beckett Group. Nowadays, when discussions turned to the company, all that netizens could talk about were Jasper being cuckolded and Liana's reprehensible actions.Reputation and goodwill were something that took time to build. Yet, they could always shatter into nothingness in the blink of an eye.Ada's arrival would not only promote Berenike Hotel, but it would also help build Beckett Group's image back up.That was why Jasper wanted no
Sophia instantly introduced herself, a hint of pride in her tone. "I'm Beckett Group's president's wife, Sophia Kirkman.""I don't understand what she's saying, Mr. Jasper. You don't need to translate for me, though. I'm not interested in her." Ada didn't look at Sophia again, continuing her conversation in Furancian with Jasper.Sophia could only understand a quarter of what they were saying. When she was about to re-introduce herself in Furancian, Jasper said lightly to Ada, "We don't see eye to eye, and I don't plan on introducing irrelevant people to you either, Ms. Kingsley."Sophia froze in place upon hearing that.A flurry of snickers and sarcasm rose from the crowd around her."Wow! Ada's really brave for turning down Mrs. Beckett like that. Who knew she was just as flawless when being herself as she was when acting?""Are you kidding me? Why would Ada Kingsley give a shit about our country's business and economy? She's Mosgravian, for God's sake. 'Beckett Group's preside
Zoe's back was to the entrance, so Jasper's gaze was fixed right on her."Jasper …" she murmured, blushing red as she strode up to him.Suddenly, a sensual scent, like the smell of roses, wafted in from around her, whispering of danger.Someone walked past her, their heels clicking loudly against the floor. Zoe felt herself overcome by their force of unwavering confidence. Jasper stared sternly at Alyssa as she walked over to them. The latter was clad in a woman's suit, and her fiery red lipstick made his heart leap at the sight. A wave of intense gossip and hushed conversations swept through the crowd. It was impossible for anyone not to have noticed her by this point. Sophia and Betty were both left in shock by her sudden arrival."Hold on, I recognize her—she was featured in a magazine not too long ago. She's the daughter of Winston Taylor, who happens to be the President of KS Group, and she also manages KS World Hotel!""Yeah! Her name is Alyssa Taylor!""Was she the o
"Don't you even think about it! She is Winston Taylor's daughter. Besides, she's also someone whom Mr. Jasper cares for deeply. Do you want to get fired? Pay more attention to your surroundings and report any discrepancies to me immediately!""Oh my goodness!" Ada gasped suddenly. "Is that Alexa's 'Ragnarok' that you're wearing, Ms. Alyssa?""Yes, ma'am," Alyssa acknowledged, gesturing toward her brooch. Amid their intense focus on her, the yellow diamond-studded, internationally award-winning piece in her breast pocket remained entirely overlooked."Alexa's 'Ragnarok?' The renowned and elusive jewelry designer, Alexa?""Haven't you seen the news? This brooch is worth hundreds of thousands of dollars! A single ten-carat yellow diamond studded on it is worth over ten thousand. Every jewelry collector wants their hand on this amazing piece!""She truly does present herself well as Belbanks' richest heiress!""Not even Sophia Kirkman's 'Halcyon' can compare. Forget it. No jewelry ca
Ada was left stunned. She was rendered speechless by a mixture of gratitude and awe. For years, she had relentlessly pursued a piece of jewelry from Alexa, but her efforts had always come to naught. It was no surprise that she now felt an overwhelming sense of joy as Alyssa presented her with this exquisite gift."N-no, no, I cannot accept this, Ms. Alyssa. It is far too precious of a gift," Ada politely declined. She had to keep her appearances up, after all."This brooch has been my solace during the darkest times of my life, soothing my wounded soul. I've since learned my lesson," Alyssa said. "That's why I want you to have this brooch as a blessing from me, in hopes that your endeavors come to fruition no matter what."Jasper winced, as if a bullet had pierced his heart. A shiver ran down his spine at Alyssa's confession."Oh! Well then … I graciously accept your gift. Thank you, truly!" Ada carefully cradled the brooch in her hands, her smile stretching wide.Her image as
Just like that, Alyssa and Ada left the hall, walking closely together as if they were lifelong friends.An awkward and tense silence settled over the crowd. Jasper silently watched as Alyssa left, fury slowly building in his chest. She had stolen his project last time, and now she had taken his guest.Jasper thought that Alyssa Taylor was just like a thief, heiress or not. He instinctively clutched his chest, feeling an ache in his heart.It seemed like something had also been taken away with Alyssa's departure.…The paparazzi were still relentless, camped outside the main entrance of the Berenike Hotel. They should have dispersed by now, assuming that Ada had checked into the presidential suite and retired for the night. However, the number of paparazzi showed no sign of diminishing.Sean had secretly tipped them off, claiming that something big would happen tonight."Why on earth are we here freezing our backsides off? What kind of major news could possibly be unfolding?
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