Jasper casually placed his left hand in his pocket on the white marble-carved spiral staircase. His tailored gray suit outlined his figure as he descended the stairs elegantly.Zoe stared at his handsome face and forgot to cry, half-opening her mouth in astonishment.Jasper was truly the fantasy of all women.Zoe was willing to lose her dignity and shame just to cling to him. She felt that she didn't make the wrong move.No matter what, she must obtain him."Mr. Jasper, what do you mean by that? You bullied my granddaughter, but now it has become her fault?" Cornelius's gaze was sharp as he questioned coldly.Jasper smirked. "You've understood. There's no need for me to repeat it and embarrass your granddaughter again, don't you think?"His words left everyone in shock.What did he mean by that?Did something happen during that night they spent together?Instantly, Zoe's face turned pale. She hid in Cornelius's arms and bit her lip, afraid to make a sound."Y-You!"Being of
At that moment, Jasper found himself to be laughable. He had thought that, despite Zoe's bad behavior, there should still be a trace of innocence in her. After all, she was his best friend's only sister.However, he had misjudged her. Her relationship with Landon was only by blood, and Zoe was nothing like Landon in other aspects.She had already been corrupted, perhaps even inherently bad from the beginning. The only reason Jasper had seen the good in her was the fact that she was Landon's sister.Since that was the case, he didn't need to show mercy for the sake of his best friend."Zoe! What nonsense are you talking about? Getting hit by a car? If something happens to you, how can I continue living?" Penelope pulled out a handkerchief and wiped her tears."Zoe is my only granddaughter, my precious jewel! She has been raised with the utmost care since childhood. She had never suffered any hardship."She cursed herself just to prove her innocence to you. This shows that every
"Madam Penelope, you may not be aware of our family situation. Despite being a servant, Mrs. Rosie holds a high position in our family."Sophia started sarcastically, taunting Rosie. "She doesn't even respect us as the hosts of this house, let alone you as guests.""Sophia, you know very well why Mrs. Rosie holds such a high position."Jasper walked to Rosie's side and positioned himself before her, acting like a shield. His gaze turned frosty as he glared at Sophia, causing her to shudder."After my mother passed away, Mrs. Rosie has been with me, taking care of me like her son. In my eyes, she's as important as my mother.""Mr. Jasper." Rosie was moved, tears welling up in the corners of her eyes."And I've already said it. In Seaview Manor, Rosie only takes care of my daily life. She's not your servant. Isn't it normal for her not to listen to you?"At his words, people couldn't help but snicker.After all, in Seaview Manor, Rosie's popularity surpassed that of Sophia and he
At this point, everyone knew that Jasper had someone in his heart, and that particular someone was their former madam.Why did Alyssa suddenly appear now? What was she here for?Did she hear about the Harper family pressuring Jasper into marriage, so she came to save him?Alyssa wore a tight black dress draped with a stylish black velvet shrug. Her hair swayed down to her waist, and her red lips were vivid. She looked cool and elegant.Two initially contradictory qualities harmonized perfectly in her. She was truly astonishing.She exerted such pressure on Zoe with a single assured glance that the latter couldn't lift her head.Upon seeing Alyssa's sudden appearance, Penelope quickly pressed on her tightened chest.When she recalled Alyssa's deeds, she felt that even their entire family joining forces might not be enough to compete with her. Penelope's not-so-healthy heart couldn't take it."Grandpa, she's the one I mentioned to you, Alyssa," Zoe urgently whispered to Cornelius
The hall fell into an eerie silence as Alyssa's imposing presence made everyone feel like they were in an icy abyss.Her intimidating presence was no less formidable than that of Cornelius, a figure known in legitimate and underworld circles.Sophia, who had been wearing a smug smile, assumed that Alyssa had heard about the Harper family pressuring Jasper into marriage and had come to snatch him away from Zoe.Sophia was ready to witness a dramatic showdown, but Alyssa's unexpected claim that she had come to see her threw her off guard."Ms. Alyssa, you're here for me? We don't seem to have any disputes, do we? Why do you want to see me?" Sophia asked with surprise, forcing a nervous laugh."Actually, our dispute ended the day Jasper and I got divorced. But your dispute with an old acquaintance is far from over," Alyssa said calmly, her tone devoid of any emotion.Yet Alyssa's calm words were like a bomb that caught everyone off guard."Zoe, what did Ms. Alyssa just say? Divorce
Why did Alyssa want to talk to Sophia about that? Did she find out something? Did that man betray Sophia?That was impossible!Alyssa must be trying to deceive her."Ms. Alyssa, you should find another time to talk. Perhaps tomorrow?"Sensing the weird atmosphere, Javier hurriedly stepped forward in an attempt to drive Alyssa away. "As you can see, we have guests at home now, so it's not quite the right time."Alyssa's initially smiling eyes abruptly grew cold. Just as she was about to speak, Jasper unexpectedly grabbed her wrist and led her upstairs before everyone. His grip was so strong that she couldn't break free. "What are you doing, Jasper? Let go!" Alyssa's cheeks flushed, and she tried hard to break free, but it was in vain.Once Jasper made up his mind, nothing could stop him."Oh my!" Rosie covered her mouth, full of excitement. In her thoughts, she considered Jasper to be exceedingly domineering but found Alyssa to be remarkably adorable."Jasper! Jasper, where
At the mention of it, Cornelius' look at Betty underwent a change, accompanied by a disapproving click of his tongue.Fortunately, Landon had good judgment and didn't take a liking to this impudent woman before him. Otherwise, it would have been a misfortune for the family."You …" Betty was infuriated, staring wide-eyed.Zoe sneered. "Even if you're upset, there's nothing you can do. After all, Landon just doesn't fancy you."Betty covered her chest and laughed, a mix of anger in her amusement. "It goes both ways, doesn't it? Jasper doesn't fancy you either.""You … " Zoe was the one burning with anger this time."When I came back, I saw Alyssa's limited edition Bugatti parked at the gate. It seems she's already here."With hands on her hips, Betty yawned. "I see that Jasper isn't here. Did he go with Alyssa, leaving you stranded here again?""Betty Beckett!" Zoe's eyes turned red, wishing she could pounce on Betty and rip her mouth apart."Oh, Zoe, Jasper is always like that
"Jasper! You jerk! Don't touch me! Put me down!"Alyssa's face instantly turned red as she twisted her waist, her legs restlessly kicking up and down.The hand that initially clutched Jasper's shirt became a fist, pounding vigorously on his chest.Even though her hand was sore from the pounding, for him, it was like being tickled. He was even enjoying it."I told you to listen to me, but you didn't. If you don't listen, I can only carry you."The gaze Jasper directed at Alyssa carried profound affection. Despite his cold gaze, there was a hidden warmth in his eyes as they looked at her. He found himself unable to rein in his emotions. After all, could it truly be deemed love if it were within one's control?"Why should I listen to you? Who are you? I won't listen! I just won't!" Alyssa's face turned redder from the anger, and she struggled even harder."If you don't stay still, I'll kiss you." Jasper swallowed hard and squinted his eyes. "You beast!" She shrank her whole bod
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,
Jasper's arrival plunged the conference room into an uneasy silence, and heavy tension settled over the space. Justin looked up, his expression a frozen mask. A palpable chill emanated from him. Javier's eyes widened in surprise. "Jasper? What are you doing here?" "Even though I'm no longer the president of Beckett Group, I remain a shareholder and board member. It's only natural for me to be here," Jasper replied smoothly as he strolled to his seat. As he passed behind Justin, he abruptly stopped. Without a moment's notice, he struck the back of Justin's chair. The sudden impact made Justin flinch. "Am I right, Justin?" Justin's expression darkened. Forcing a smile, he replied, "As a board member, you have the right to attend, even if you're no longer involved in operations. There's no issue.""If that's the case, why wasn't I informed about this meeting?" Jasper lowered himself into his seat, legs slightly parted, exuding an air of indifference. Yet, beneath the nonc