Julien's eyes were red and slightly teary as he stared at Jonah in complete astonishment.He found himself bewildered by Jonah's twisted mindset.If he didn't possess such striking looks, Julien might genuinely believe him to be a monster!"Are you in cahoots with the one who kidnapped me? Are you the kidnapper?" Julien questioned with a trembling voice.Jonah squinted, extending a gentlemanly hand toward him. "Let me introduce myself. I am Jonah Taylor, the CEO of KS Group. It's a pleasure to meet you.""KS ...?" Julien was startled, "My aunt. It's you! Are you ...""Exactly as you think." Jonah's fingers tightened, and he awkwardly smiled, "We'll shake hands after Axel unties you.""Jonah!"Axel returned in long strides, muttering, "The toilet is too far. I almost peed halfway. What's the point of having such a big house?"Jonah frowned, feeling somewhat amused. No matter how large the Taylor family's house was, it was still a cage for Axel. Just like Alyssa, he detested
In the blink of an eye, Julien's body tilted forward. He swiftly clutched onto Jonah's sturdy shoulders, finding refuge in the firm hold.Responding with quick reflexes, Jonah intervened to prevent Julien from toppling over, firmly securing him with a grip around his waist.In that moment, the duo struck a pose reminiscent of a classic romantic scene from a soap opera, leaving Axel, who stood nearby, in utter amazement."Uh, sorry about that." Julien's cheeks blushed with embarrassment. Having harbored a lot of pent-up anger, Julien found solace in the embrace, his frustration easing."No need to apologize. If anything, we should be sorry," Jonah asserted without hesitation, effortlessly lifting Julien in a princess-style embrace.The unexpected move by Jonah caught Julien off guard, causing his heart to pound loudly in his chest.Julien recognized his penchant for indulging in earthly pleasures, engaging in flirtation with handsome men, and succumbing to temptation after a few
Alyssa held Axel intimately in the living room, and Axel also embraced his sister. If they weren't siblings, others might think they were a newlywed couple cherishing their reunion."Axel, you went through a lot this time," Alyssa pouted."It's not a big deal. I just brought someone back. It's nothing exhausting," Axel replied while gently patting her head. His eyes filled with longing and tenderness. "As long as you'd be happy, I'd even kill him for you."Upon hearing that, Sean was scared out of his wits, and Silas almost spat out his tea!At this moment, Jonah descended the stairs. "He's asleep.""He's probably exhausted. Let him rest." Alyssa sighed. "I was too impatient. This might backfire. If Julien doesn't agree to help, I can't force him by threatening him.""Lyse, don't worry." Jonah sat beside her, gently encircling her shoulder with his arm. "You have us. We're here to help you with things you can't accomplish on your own.""Exactly, Lyse," Silas added in to
"Hey, sweetheart, what's on your mind? Your eyes are wandering."Axel noticed Alyssa's vacant gaze and reached out and waved before her eyes."Axel, I ..."Alyssa pondered the resemblance to the woman who bore a striking likeness to her, causing her to hesitate before uttering her thoughts."What's wrong, Lyse? You've always been straightforward. Why are you hesitating now?" Axel asked in surprise."It's nothing."That woman was only a chance encounter. Besides, she was far away in Mosgravia.Even if she had a slight doubt in her heart, she couldn't investigate it through that woman. She could only investigate through Zoe.However, delving into these matters seemed futile.Jasper had explicitly stated in front of Newton that their relationship was a thing of the past. Any possibility of rekindling their connection was long gone.Despite this explicit declaration, she still found herself hesitating and was at a loss. Alyssa sneered quietly, curling her lips into a chilly smi
Silas widened his eyes, almost tempted to go over and kick his cheeky younger brother."I've simply never encountered such a handsome man before, so I was a little curious! What if he's someone who enjoys cross-dressing?"Alyssa sighed while holding her forehead. Silas' imagination was indeed vivid!Axel chimed in, "Why would any typical heterosexual guy be interested in other men?"Silas retorted, "That just means I'm young. Only older folks lose their curiosity!"The brothers bantered and bickered, and the night concluded.…The following day, Julien slept until noon due to jet lag.When he finally opened his eyes, he heard a persistent knocking on the door.Initially, he was reluctant to open it, but the person outside was relentless and patient. The knock continued without pausing."What's going on? You're so annoying!"Julien sprung up from the bed, marched to the door, and flung it open irritably.Julien was stunned to see Jonah dressed impeccably in a suit.Jonah ma
"Jonah."Julien raised his eyebrow deviously. He suddenly leaned closer to him. "Do you know that inexplicably nice people often have ill intentions?"Jonah looked at Julien, and the latter's glistening eyes instantly peered straight into his soul.They were extremely close. Jonah could feel his eyebrow brushing against the tip of Julien's nose.Jonah shuddered. He stared deeply into his eyes. "What are you implying?""Did you come here to please me by Alyssa's orders? Or were you genuinely concerned about my leg injury?"Julien's voice was not as feminine as his face. Yet, it carried a seductive and alluring tone to it."You are Lyse's guest and also Mandy's nephew. It makes sense for me to do this for you." Jonah looked down once again."Huh, no wonder you're the president. Your lips are sealed shut."Julien didn't like the answer he received. He turned around, unwilling to face Jonah. "You can leave now. Also, I'm booking my flights now and will fly first thing in the mor
Jonah entered his study and sat at his desk. The smile that hung on his face remained.He stretched his neck slightly backward and tugged on his tie. He undid the buttons around his collar. Finally, he could breathe.A silver cross fell from the opening on his shirt. It glistened faintly under the light.Jonah closed his eyes slowly. He took a deep breath to calm his restless heart down.At this moment, Julien's beautiful androgynous features weren't the ones occupying his mind. It was another man—a man he thought he had forgotten yet still longed for—his old flame.Jonah turned toward the bookshelf wall and picked two books.The bookshelf made a "click" sound, and a secret compartment appeared to reveal an exquisite safe. He punched the man's birthday and his own, and the safe opened.There were a few framed photos, a sealed envelope, and a black velvet jewelry box in the safe.Jonah opened the jewelry box. In it was a pair of diamond rings, perfect for a couple.He picked
The atmosphere turned awkward all of a sudden. There was a subtle yet palpable hint of tension.Julien's eyes gradually widened, as if he had heard something that wounded his ego deeply. His face contorted and flushed red. After a prolonged pause, he finally exclaimed, "Huh?""I think you've stayed too long in Mosgravia, Dr. Lovelace. It must be difficult for you to understand Solanian now. Do you want me to explain it in Grunslandish for you?" A sharp glint flashed in Alyssa's eyes, her smile carrying a sense of subtle pressure. Women hardly displayed such a smile.It exuded the arrogance of a person of great power and the unyielding confidence of a man. The sheer intimidation of it weighed so heavily that it shackled Julien's carefree spirit like a ball and chain."Are you saying I didn't want to take Jasper as a patient because I can't heal him? Is that what you're implying?" Julien retorted through gritted teeth. "I don't see any other explanation." Alyssa shrugged."Pah
Jonah's gaze burned with a mix of longing, sorrow, and something deeply affectionate. The world swam back into focus as Julien looked at Jonah. Without preamble, he asked, "Are you new? How much do you charge per night?"Light-headed and grinning, Julien reached out a hand, his fingers brushing softly against Jonah's cheek. "You're pretty good-looking," he said, his voice slurred. Then his expression shifted. "Why do you… look so much like someone I hate with every fiber of my being?"Jonah's heart clenched. Even so, he slid his arms around Julien's waist. Trembling, he pulled Julien into his arms. "I'm new here. Could you help me meet my target tonight, Mr. Lovelace?"Julien's eyes narrowed as he scrutinized Jonah. Jonah's eyes teared up as he held Julien's waist tightly. "I promise you won't be disappointed," he said, his voice deep. Watching from the shadows below the stage, Evan nearly gagged at Jonah's sultry tone. Was this really the Judas he knew? The man sounded downri
The bar was alive with striking lights and thundering music, and the air was thick with the scent of tobacco and alcohol. The atmosphere was one of moral decay—corrupt, degrading, and vile. "Where's Julien?" Jonah's voice cut through the noise, his tone icy and sharp. When Jonah stepped inside, the eyes of several men turned toward him, their gazes filled with illicit intent."Why, hello there. Are you here alone? Are you feeling lonely?" A sexy man sauntered over, draping himself over Jonah's shoulders. He let his hands linger with a playful squeeze. "If you're bored, I'd be happy to keep you company." Jonah's expression darkened. His hands trembled, veins bulging with barely contained rage. Suddenly, Evan burst through the crowd, his face twisting in alarm at the sight of Jonah surrounded by a swarm of predatory men. Evan yelled, "Don't touch him!" A heavy thump reverberated through the room. Gasps erupted as people scrambled back.The man who had draped himself over
Rafe stated, "But Beckett Group is in the middle of a storm right now. If I insisted on giving your corporation the project, my superiors would investigate me. I wouldn't be able to escape unscathed!""If you're investigated, I'll make sure you can still live a life of luxury—even if you lose your job." Justin's tone darkened. "But if you turn against me, you won't just suffer a few losses. You'll lose everything."Under the dim moonlight, Justin fiddled with his antique tea cup, his gaze narrowing. "You've worked so hard to get to where you are. Are you prepared to lose it all?"After ending the call, Justin turned to Remy, who stood quietly at the side. "Sheryl is still being detained. She can't be bailed out for another two days. I need someone to watch over the research lab. You'll handle that."Remy was taken aback. "I failed my last mission. Aren't you going to punish me?"Justin's smile was cold and insincere. "It wasn't your fault. You were ambushed. If not for that, I tru
Remy pursed his lips, bending down to pick up the fallen poker card. It was the King of Spades—an entry pass to Kings' Club. "My attacker was…" Remy's pupils constricted as he tightened his grip on the card. "It can only be that dear uncle of mine, always claiming to see me as his own son." Justin's lips curled into a sinister smile. "He's trying to get rid of my right-hand man, taking advantage of my internal feud with Jasper. Weakening me is just his first step toward gaining control over me."He's been a fugitive ever since his successful prison break, never returning to Cyrris after receiving his life sentence. His power base remains in Kontina. "I'm the last surviving Dutton. The Dutton Group, as a cover, has declared bankruptcy and severed all ties with the country. "My dear uncle has taken a huge risk just to target me. He sent his men to attack you in Solana City. What a delightful surprise. It seems he truly doesn't trust me, his only remaining family."Remy lowere
The hospital ward grew heavy with silence. Mandy and Neil stared at Alyssa, stunned beyond words. "M-Ms. Alyssa, you knew that man was Mr. Damien?" Neil asked, disbelief etched into his voice. "Yes." Alyssa's reply was quiet, her lips pressed into a thin line. She lowered her gaze, her voice barely above a whisper. "We found out when Cyrus took Damien's cigarette butt for a paternity test."Mandy approached Alyssa, her shoulders trembling slightly. "So, you and Cyrus knew… and you both kept it from me?" Mandy said, her voice catching in her throat, tears welling up. Alyssa felt a sharp pang in her chest. "Mandy, I'm sorry. It was my decision. Cyrus had nothing to do with it."Mandy's tears fell freely now, her grief spilling out in raw sobs. "Do you know what it's been like for me all these years, thinking Damien was gone? Winston, Miley, Lyla, and Colene kept telling me to move on. I tried to accept that he was dead, that we'd never find his body. But I never did."Her vo
The hospital ward was bathed in a dim, yellow glow from the bedside lamp. The silence was thick, yet the room held a strange warmth—an unfamiliar comfort that felt oddly familiar to Remy.Pain radiated through his body as he struggled to sit up. His eyes fell on Mandy, who was asleep beside his bed. Her hair was a mess, and her swollen eyes suggested she'd been crying. She was sound asleep. Remy stiffened. His breath quickened as he stared at her fragile figure. Slowly, he leaned forward, his fingers lifting slightly, tempted to reach out.Just as his hand hovered close, Mandy's lashes fluttered. In her sleep, she murmured, "Damien… Damien… I miss you so much…" Tears slipped down her cheeks, silent and unbidden.A pang tugged at Remy's heart. Without thinking, he brushed away her tears with his calloused fingers. The moment his skin touched hers, a jolt shot through him, sharp and electrifying. Pain throbbed at his temples, but beneath it was a warmth he didn't want to let g
Justin's casual question hit Javier like a thunderclap. Shock rippled through him, freezing his expression. His voice trembled with fear as he barked, "What nonsense is that? Are you accusing me of causing Chester's death? I'm your father—how could you think I'd do such a thing?""It's not an accusation. Just the facts," Justin replied coolly, crossing his legs and savoring his tea with unsettling calm. "And I'm not condemning you. In fact, I understand why you did it. I'm facing the same dilemma now."Javier's breathing grew ragged. He had watched Justin grow from a child into the man before him—now a predator, circling with quiet menace."You were meant to be the heir as the eldest son," Justin continued, his voice smooth as silk. "But Grandpa favored Uncle Chester, handing him major projects, grooming him in plain sight. "Uncle Chester's reputation soon eclipsed yours. He was a natural leader, adept at business, with one fatal flaw—he was kind. Too kind. Unlike you."Justin
Nonetheless, night had fallen by the time Justin arrived at Seaview Manor. On his way there, he worked on two things. First, he secured the top legal team to get Sheryl out on bail as quickly as possible. Second, he tried reaching Remy—unsuccessfully. He had never lost contact with Remy before. Justin's face was as dark as the night itself. The moment he stepped inside Seaview Manor, Rory approached with a solemn expression. He gave a slight bow before speaking. "Mr. Justin, what took you so long? Mr. Javier has been waiting.""I was occupied," Justin replied coolly. Then, as if it were an ordinary evening, he allowed a faint smile. "Where's Jasper? Is he back here yet?" A conflicted look came across Rory's face. "Things between you and Mr. Jasper have soured. I doubt he'll want to see you anytime soon—or show up here.""Is that so? How disappointing."Justin's smile didn't reach his eyes. His gaze lingered on Rory, sharp and bottomless. "So, he'd rather believe what he se
Jonah scoured every corner of the hotel, desperation clawing at his chest, but Julien was nowhere to be found. "Jonah!" Alyssa called out, breathless as she caught up to him. She grabbed his arm. "Calm down! I'll help you search for Jul!""I can't find him. He's gone," Jonah murmured, sinking to the floor. His tears mixed with sweat, creating dark patches on the ground. "Lyse… I fear… if I can't find Julien this time, I'll lose him forever."The agonizing thought of losing the love of his life pierced him. "No, you won't!" Alyssa gripped his arm tighter, her voice trembling with conviction. "If Jul had given up on you, he wouldn't have come here today. The fact that he showed up means he still cares."Jonah's eyes were bloodshot, filled with a pain too deep to hide. He shook his head slowly. "Julien came back for Jasper. He did it because he's loyal… because he's a good friend. Not because of me.""He does care!" Alyssa insisted. "If he didn't, he would've faced you without fli