Alyssa's round eyes turned cold. She gave Landon a deadpan look. Jasper noticed his indecent behavior, and his face turned dark! "How did I do just now?" Landon returned to Jasper's side with a grin, nudging his elbow."Great. I'll kill you if you try that again," Jasper replied with a chilling glint in his eyes. Landon felt hopeless as he said, "Why are you always picking on me? You're harder to deal with than all the hundreds of girlfriends I've had combined!" Soon, the first auction item was presented to the audience. It was a landscape painting from the 20th century. It was a simple brushwork painting that captured the essence of the scenery, truly a masterpiece. But, the artist wasn't famous, so the starting price was only one million dollars. Jasper's interest in antique artworks was limited. However, he had his fair share of knowledge since his grandfather and father were both avid collectors. He immediately recognized the painting upon seeing it. There was an id
Jasper scowled, and he pursed his lips. Since Alice could afford nine million, ten million wasn't a big deal. She stopped not because she couldn't afford it but because she gave up. It was obvious that she did it on purpose. But he couldn't say anything. After all, no one forced Liana to spend a fortune on the painting. It was all on her. Several more items were auctioned, and Alyssa remained composed. She didn't make any moves at the moment. Jasper's sole focus was getting the Antique Rosewood Chair, so he remained still. Next up was a pair of Antique Emerald Ornaments donated by Madam Sophia on behalf of the Beckett Group. The starting price was two million. Alyssa sneered and shook her head disdainfully. She would rather bid on the first painting replica than spend a large sum on those two useless stones. Anyone who would buy them was a fool. As expected, there were only a few bidders. The auctioneer tried hard to promote the items. But in the end, they were sold for
Jasper's heart belonged to someone else. There were times when he felt Alice was wasting her life and beauty being with him. His gaze wandered toward her and finally fell on her slender wrist. Sure enough, she was still wearing the bracelet his grandfather gave her. Even though it didn't match her outfit today, she couldn't bear to take it off. It was obvious she loved it. Jasper narrowed his eyes, and his heart was racing. The Georgian Sky-Blue Porcelain Chalices attracted intense bidding. The auctioneer was overwhelmed! "Ten million!" "Twenty-five million!" "Twenty-seven million!" "Forty million." Jasper elegantly raised his bidding paddle. He constantly called out the highest number in the whole room. Everyone was taken aback. Alyssa was also surprised and glanced at him inadvertently. This man didn't have a good eye for women, but his taste for antiques was pristine. Jasper noticed her gaze. His dark and amber eyes swept over, locking with her gaze. Immedi
The mysterious lady was very conceited. However, her actions continued to astonish the audience. "Mom, did I hear it right?" Betty was in disbelief, a look of surprise plastered on her face. "That country girl bid 60 million? How could she ask for such a high price?! Is she putting on an act?" Sophia remained silent, but her cold gaze was fixed on Alyssa. Suddenly, she recalled something and turned to look at Winston's second wife, Mandy. A cold smile crept on her lips as a smug thought crossed her mind. She wondered if Alice could survive the Taylor family if she wanted to go from rags to riches. "70 million," Jasper said and raised the paddle calmly. The light shone on him, creating an outline of his silhouette. He looked so stunning that it was hard for anyone to look away. He had raised the price to a new height. It left others determined to bid frustrated as they didn't have the means. "75 million." Alyssa didn't falter. She raised the paddle again without hesit
In an instant, Liana felt as if she had been struck by lightning. Her face turned pale. Rosaline was also startled, and her entire body froze. "Mom! W-What's going on?!" Liana stuttered. "Didn't you sell this necklace? Why is it in the auction?" "I did sell it! This is impossible!" Rosaline murmured in astonishment. "What do we do now? Jasper is sitting right there. How do you think he'll feel seeing the gift he gave me being put up for auction? He'll definitely be mad at me!" Liana was filled with resentment and almost on the verge of tears. "It's alright! There can't be only one of these necklaces in the world. Maybe it's an exact replica …" "But there isn't another! The auctioneer just introduced it. It's the same one Jasper gave me! No explanation will fool him!" Both of them racked their brains to figure things out. Liana was thinking about her explanation to Jasper. While Rosaline was wondering why the necklace she sold was auctioned under the name of the KS Gro
In the past, Alyssa was smart yet innocent to the ways of the world, smooth and cunning but still retained her naivety. She was always cherished by the Taylor family and never bothered to resort to such schemes. However, after marrying into the Beckett family and leaving Jasper, her mind was corrupted with conspiracies and schemes. She remembered when the "Crimson Heart" necklace was brought on stage and how broken Jasper looked. At that moment, she felt like she had gone too far. In reality, she could have simply ignored the necklace. There was no need to humiliate Jasper at the auction to this extent. But she couldn't let it go. It wasn't that she was resentful because of the divorce from Jasper. She had come to terms with the fact that the love she had pursued for thirteen years was dead. Her unwillingness stemmed from Jasper's foolishness. Why couldn't he see the truth about the person he loved? She silently swore she would never meddle in their relationship again. Alys
Alyssa felt her breathing stopped. The bracelet was a gift from Newton, and Liana destroyed it. In an instant, fury surged throughout her veins. She had the urge to break every bone in Liana's body. "Liana Gardner!" Alyssa shrieked, her eyes red with anger. Liana was frightened but regained her composure. "So what if I broke your bracelet? Only the two of us are here. I can say you hurt me. Who do you think Jasper will believe?" Liana smiled wickedly. She picked up a piece of the broken bracelet. Then, she extended her delicate wrist. Alyssa realized what was happening. She wanted to stop her. But it was too late. Liana yelped, and Alyssa watched as she slit her wrist with the broken bracelet. Perhaps it was her first time inflicting a wound, so she was able to avoid any major arteries. But the cut was deep. Blood gushed out of her wound in an instant. Even Liana was scared by her actions. But she knew if she were to play the victim, she had to commit to her role fully.
Sophia put on an anxious act. She asked, "What happened to your hand, Liana? Tell me!" "Yes, Liana, don't be afraid to tell us! We will never let anyone bully you!" Betty chimed, acting all fair and just."I … I ran into Ms. White in the bathroom ..."In Jasper's arms, Liana was weak and gasping for breath. However, her gaze toward Alyssa was laced with hatred. "I know Ms. White doesn't like me, so I took the initiative to say hello to her. I was hoping I could clear up any previous misgivings. But she didn't appreciate the gesture at all. And before I knew it, we were fighting. "Alyssa simply crossed her arms. She tilted her head and smiled. When Jasper realized she was smiling, he grew frustrated. "When I was about to leave, she grabbed me and refused to let me go. In a moment of impatience, I jerked my hand away and tore off her bracelet. It fell to the ground and shattered. Ms. White was very angry because the bracelet was broken, no matter how much I apologized, it was u
The once lively and fashion-loving Julien now seemed like a star that had lost its light. The radiance that once defined him had vanished. Julien walked past Jonah without stopping. The short distance between them gave Jonah a painfully clear view of the cross-shaped scar on Julien's cheek. His heart wrenched, the pain so intense that his vision blurred. He staggered. "Jonah, are you alright?" Fortunately, Landon was beside him and caught him just in time. Staring at Julien's slim figure, Jonah parted his dry lips, but no words came out.Bitterness filled the back of his throat, and his longing for Julien sent sharp, stabbing pains through his body.Julien stopped beside Jasper, offering him a small smile and a nod as a greeting.Then, his gaze turned fierce as he locked eyes with Justin's hypocritical expression."My name is Julien Lovelace. I was once Mr. Jasper's primary physician. Approximately six months ago, Mr. Jasper made a deal with Jameson to rescue Ms. Alyssa w
Alyssa stood at the doorway, her slim figure framed against the light, yet she seemed to tower over the room. Her presence commanded attention, filling the hall with an air of reverence and grandeur. From across the room, Jasper's dark eyes burned with intensity. To him, Alyssa was like a golden phoenix, its wings unfurling as it soared, radiating brilliance over everything in its wake. "Lyse!"Jonah and Landon stared in shock. They hadn't expected Alyssa to show up at the press conference. Camera flashes erupted once more."It's Ms. Alyssa Taylor!""We should address her properly now—she's the head of KS Group!" "Wait… Is she here to support Jasper? I thought they broke up?""What do you even know? They used to be in love!" Justin narrowed his eyes at Alyssa's frigid, determined expression. Slowly, his lips curled into a chilling, sinister smile.Alyssa met his gaze, suppressing the hatred surging within her. Then, with an air of composure, she turned to the crowd. "W
"That's rubbish. I never asked you to do anything like that!" Sheryl's bloodshot eyes burned with fury. She clenched her fists, longing to silence Sebastian."I didn't expect you to admit it," Sebastian said coldly. He reached into his chest pocket and pulled out his phone. After scrolling briefly, he held it up for all to see. "You were wary of me recording our conversations, but you never suspected I'd install a hidden camera in my office. This footage clearly shows you bribing and threatening me. With this evidence, denial is futile!"The crowd turned to Sheryl, their gazes heavy with shock and suspicion. When their eyes shifted to Justin, doubt lingered in the air.Sheryl's heart sank, her face draining of color.As cautious as she was, she had miscalculated. But it didn't matter. She had carried out the task herself, avoiding any direct mention of Justin's orders. Justin could still be saved.It was Sheryl who had fallen short in her responsibilities, and she was ready to tak
Jasper's eyes blazed with fury as he locked his gaze on Justin, a sharp, determined gleam in his dark eyes. "I will clear my name and restore my reputation, no matter the cost!" he declared, his voice ringing with resolve.The tension between Justin, standing on stage, and Jasper, positioned below, was palpable—like a killer whale facing off with a great white shark. The outcome was still uncertain."I, Landon Harper, swear on my name and the entirety of Harper Group that Jasper never did drugs. The whole situation was a setup!" Landon's voice resounded throughout the entire hall. The reporters buzzed with questions. "Who would do such a thing?"Landon refrained from directly naming Justin, aware that exposing the wolf in sheep's clothing would not be easy. Accusing him too hastily might provide Justin with an opportunity to counterattack, exploiting any gaps in their case.Landon had no fear of tarnishing his own reputation, but he was deeply concerned about the damage it m
Everyone turned to look behind them.Justin's icy gaze locked onto the doors, his expression dark and foreboding. The light pouring in from outside was blinding, piercing through the shadows like a blade. As the crowd squinted against the glare, two figures emerged, standing tall and resolute side by side.It was Jasper and Landon. Clad in a sleek black suit, Landon bore traces of dust but appeared otherwise unscathed. Jasper, however, was a stark contrast. His clothes were torn and bloodied, his appearance disheveled, but his demeanor was anything but defeated. Standing straight and proud, his frigid stare was enough to make the crowd shrink back, unwilling to meet his eyes."Mr. Justin," Landon began, his voice sharp and cutting, "you've gone to great lengths to keep Jasper from this press conference."Ever the rebel with the air of a street-hardened fighter, Landon didn't mince words. "To stop him, you sent assassins to ambush him. You had your people block his way in the
Meanwhile, the light above one of Taylor General Hospital's emergency surgery theaters flickered off. Moments later, the door swung open, and a doctor emerged, pulling down his surgical mask. Mandy hurried toward the doctor, her eyes brimming with worry. "How is that poor man doing?" "Mrs. Taylor, it's fortunate you brought him in when you did. Ten minutes later, and we might not have been able to save him. He went into shock from excessive blood loss, but he's stable now. I gave him a transfusion and sutured his wounds. He'll need rest and proper nutrition to recover fully."Relief washed over Mandy, and her tense body slackened. Her knees nearly buckled as she murmured, "Thank God… Thank God!" Once the doctor departed, Mandy instructed her driver to purchase the best blood-replenishing supplements available, sparing no expense.The driver had only been employed by the Taylor family for the past two years, so he was unaware of the true reasons behind Mandy's actions. To him, h
Soon enough, Jasper and Jonah found themselves surrounded by a horde of fighters. The atmosphere was charged with a vicious, merciless tension that heightened their awareness. They were now in the underground parking lot of Berenike Hotel.This was one of the Beckett family's properties, with Newton overseeing the construction personally.Berenike Hotel had always been the leader among all the five-star hotels in Solana City. Yet, on this day, when a critical press conference was about to begin, Justin chose to start a massacre in the hotel's parking lot, disregarding the potential damage to the hotel's reputation. His actions were utterly insane and perverse. "Shall we each take down ten of them?" Jonah nudged Jasper with his elbow. Narrowing his eyes, he added, "The press conference starts in ten minutes. Think you can wrap this up by then?"A cold, fierce glint flashed in Jasper's usually dull eyes. "I'll take down 15 and leave five for you." "Why only five for me?"Jasp
The golden iris stood as a symbol of triumph."Ms. Alyssa, we're on track. We'll make it to the press conference on time!" Sean declared, stepping on the accelerator with a fiery look in his eyes. "Safety first," Alyssa reminded him in a calm, steady voice. Surprisingly, at this crucial juncture, she appeared composed. "Taty is due soon, and you're about to become a father. As a family man, you shouldn't be as reckless as before." The thought of his unborn son brought a blissful smile to Sean's face, softening his fiery resolve.Alyssa closed her eyes, though her mind remained in overdrive. The truth was, she was forcing herself to stay alert. Ever since Amber's disappearance, she hadn't had a single restful night. The once carefree Alyssa, who could sleep through anything, was long gone. Her frayed nerves left her in a weakened state, but she held on.She had survived when others hadn't, and that resilience fueled her belief that she could endure again. This time, she wou
In an instant, the woman burst into tears. Remy, in an alarmed state, scanned the area outside the car. Satisfied that he was momentarily safe, he loosened his grip on the woman, only to discover his palms were damp. The woman's face was drenched in tears. As he stared into her misty eyes, recognition dawned on him—she was the woman who had chased him at the hospital, frantically calling him "Damien". This could only mean she was Damien Taylor's mother. Remy straightened abruptly, putting distance between himself and Mandy. A surge of emotion tightened his chest, leaving him shaken. Silence blanketed the car. Despite her usual composure, Mandy was overwhelmed. Her tears were unstoppable as she gazed at him. Nothing else seemed to matter. At that moment, Mandy's driver opened the car door and climbed in, saying, "Mrs. Taylor, here are the desserts you ordered for Mr. Taylor—"Remy's reddened eyes darkened. His muscles tensed as he reached for the door handle, ready to l