The next day, Jasper and Landon went secretly to Shelland Island, armed with weapons.It wasn't the smoothest trip. The day started out sunny and calm, but a thunderstorm struck after two hours on the boat.The two had opted for a yacht instead of a larger vessel in order to keep a low profile. Not only would they be a smaller and speedier target, but they could also swiftly retreat the scene if needed.But the downside to this kind of ship was how vulnerable it left them to the extreme weather!"Mr. Jasper, Mr. Harper, what do we do? Is the boat going to capsize?" Landon's men were doing their best to keep the yacht afloat. But it was tough to do so when the vessel wouldn't stop being tossed and turned by the harsh waves, not to mention sail onward in a straight line!All of a sudden, a large wave crashed toward the ship, aiming right for Landon. Landon stood there shocked, unable to move. All of a sudden, someone went up to shield him.Jasper used his body to protect Landon f
Jasper and Landon looked up, and sure enough, a helicopter was flying right toward them!Everyone immediately went on high alert. They took out their weapons and aimed right at the helicopter."At ease. I doubt they're the enemy," Jasper said calmly. He was the only one who remained unworried."How are you so sure?" Landon asked in surprise."If they were the enemy, they could've started firing at us from this distance already. The only reason they haven't is because they don't plan on killing us."Landon nodded eagerly. "Makes sense!"The helicopter landed on the beach, its blades sweeping up sand that blinded everyone's eyes. Only Jasper remained steady, welcoming the billowing wind as he watched a man step off the helicopter.When Jasper saw who it was, his eyes widened."Holy shit! It's Jonah!" Landon yelped and hid behind Jasper.Jonah approached them, emanating a commanding presence. Despite having connections in legal and underworld circles, Landon should theoreticall
Jasper's eyes grew red-rimmed, his voice hoarse, as he begged Jonah. "All I'm doing now is so that I can make it up to Lyse. I'd give up my life just to help her achieve what she wants, no matter whether you all forgive me or not. Just please don't put Lyse at risk. As her brother, you know just how she can be!"Jasper was really worried that Alyssa would be angry at him all over again. They had gotten to such a neutral state after months of tribulation. Jasper didn't want things to return to square one.But he was more worried something terrible might happen to Alyssa.Jonah hadn't expected Jasper to blurt all this out. He'd only meant to mock the latter.After a moment of silence, Jonah finally said, "Alright. You can proceed, but you have to stick with me."…While Jasper was making the first move overseas, things weren't looking too good back in Solana City.Today marked the day of a crucial meeting between Beckett Group and Jesselton Inc. from Mosgravia. Javier and the high
"Who is that? They look local.""I'm not sure, but don't you think he looks a bit like Mr. Beckett?""I didn't notice it before, but … he does, yeah!"Javier's eyes widened in shock as he stared at the screen.It was Justin!Why was he sitting there with Mr. Jesselton?As if oblivious to the fact that the call had gone through, Justin was chatting merrily with the Jesselton father and son. They looked to have quite a friendship."Justin, you … " Javier was taken aback. The script he had meticulously prepared the previous night quickly became a jumble.Only then did Justin react by turning to the camera. He waved at Javier. "Long time no see, Dad."The board members were stunned.Was this handsome, refined young man Justin Beckett, the eldest son of the Beckett family who had never once revealed himself publicly in Solana City?Just then, Ezzo turned to greet Javier with a smile through the screen. "I believe we have much to discuss regarding our partnership, Mr. Javier."…
After the agreement was signed, Javier heaved a long sigh. The weight in his heart had lifted greatly.This business deal meant that their company had regained their footing and gained some respect once again.Javier returned to his officer and quickly called Justin again."Congratulations on another successful partnership, Dad," Justin said. He was now in a car heading back home. There was a warmth in his eyes accompanying his smile.When it came to looks, Justin was not as handsome as Jasper, nor was he as sharp as Landon or as eccentric as Jameson.Justin had a refined yet gentle vibe that made you glad to befriend him and get to know more. Due to Justin's disability, his movements were restricted by a wheelchair. But that never made him down or depressed. His smile remained warm and bright as ever—as if that kidnapping from years ago never happened."It's your doing that made this partnership go through, Justin. I should be the one thanking you." Javier's tone was thick wit
Jasper then shared a look with Jonah before they headed deep into the jungle.Landon prayed for the two of them to return safely. …In the Millennium's most extravagant suit, Jameson was discussing merrily with a Tsulu military representative. This Tsulian man, Inigo Montoye, had worked with Jameson when the latter was making a name for himself in Kontina. Since Inigo had benefited a lot from working with Jameson, he naturally gave the same to Jameson's endeavors in Tsulu and Kontina.Jameson had become a powerful financial magnate in Kontina, while Inigo was a lieutenant colonel in the Royal Tsulian Army's Ground Force. Virtually no outsider knew of their connection all these years.Amber stayed beside them the whole night, topping their drinks off and playing the perfect role as bait. Whenever she bent down to pour a drink, Inigo got a full view of her cleavage, making the blood in his veins burn with desire. He didn't even notice when his drink spilled at the edges.Just
Jameson stated, "Unlike how powerful they are in Solana City, those two are in Tsulu without any reinforcements. No one would notice if you killed them and disposed of their bodies, yes?" Jameson asked with eyes that hinted malice. "After all, you're quite the expert at doing that.""Hahaha! You really did think this through, Mr. Schmidt. But … how will you thank me for helping you out?""Money. Land. Whatever you want.""I have something I want right now." Inigo's lustful eyes ran along Amber's body.In the next instant, Jameson grabbed her arm and flung her toward Inigo. Amber was caught unaware and immediately landed on Inigo's lap. The latter immediately caged her in with his arms, running his hands all over her.Jameson slowly got up from his seat and left the room without looking back, saying, "She's all yours tonight."…Inigo left The Millennium satisfied for the night after having his fill of women and wine, ready to execute the task Jameson had given him.Amber was
"Don't you find that question hilarious?" Jameson chuckled and flung her hand away. "If I'd known you were this shallow, I would never have rescued you all those years ago."With a slam of the door, Jameson left the room.Amber crumpled into a heap, weeping painfully and feeling more pathetic than the torn pieces of fabric on the floor.…Cold island rain fell on Jasper as he continued moving forward. Jonah walked beside him in silence, secretly surprised at how swift Jasper was.Jasper's military years did him well. His training as a special ops soldier had neither worn down throughout his CEO career nor dulled his steely will.As long as the circumstances deemed necessary, Jasper would eagerly dive back onto the battlefield.Jonah couldn't help but admit that Jasper was the only other man in this world who could protect Alyssa besides himself."Pity," Jonah sighed."What?" Jasper asked, having heard Jonah even though they were moving fast.Jonah was about to speak when he s
"Jameson and Carl have been eliminated. Who else could be targeting Amber?"A sharp glint flashed in Jasper's eyes as a thought struck him. "Could it be Justin or Sheryl?" he asked, his voice low and tense.He recalled seeing Justin in the living room earlier that evening, wide awake instead of resting. Was Justin waiting for something? Or perhaps, provoking him in subtle defiance?"They are the only ones I can think of with a grudge against Amber." Alyssa's anxiousness made her voice tremble. "Having worked for Jameson for years, Amber must have visited Mosgravia multiple times to meet with Sir—who is, in fact, Justin. "Justin wouldn't have met anyone else besides Jameson. But how could he leave no trace after all those interactions? Amber must have figured out his true identity. And Justin—he must have realized who she is, even with her changed appearance."Jasper's expression darkened. "So he decided to eliminate her as a precaution."Tears welled in Alyssa's eyes, threaten
Searching for Amber without direction would be pointless. Jasper made a swift decision to bring Alyssa back to the manor, shielding her from the relentless chill of the wind. Once inside, he immediately began organizing the search. He deployed his men and contacted Landon, requesting additional support.The two of them sat together on the couch.This time, there was no space between them. It was as though an invisible force drew them closer, their proximity feeling natural yet electric. Neither could say who had moved first.Alyssa, however, was in no mood to dwell on their closeness. Wrapped in her down jacket, she curled up on the couch, her arms hugging herself tightly. A quiet frostiness emanated from her as she sat in silence, listening to Jasper's calm and methodical calls to mobilize his team.In the past, his composed presence would have been enough to ease her mind. But now, her thoughts were a tangled mess, each one like a razor claw tearing at her heart. The pain was u
"Ms. Gillis, I've searched her thoroughly. She doesn't have anything on her." Sheryl's brows knitted in frustration. "How can that be? Where's her cell phone?" "There wasn't one." Sheryl, no longer concerned about dirtying herself, stepped forward, grabbed Amber by her hair, and forced her to meet her gaze."You bitch," Sheryl snarled. "You came to The Millennium at this hour for a reason. What did you find? Hand it over, and I might spare your worthless life!"Amber spat a mouthful of bloody saliva directly onto Sheryl's face."Fuck! You bitch!" Glaring at Amber, Sheryl rolled her sleeves up and slapped her twice in the face. Even so, it wasn't enough to quench her fury. She yelled, "Take her back!" Two of Sheryl's subordinates moved forward, dragging a limp Amber away. Sheryl's reddened eyes burned with fury as she wiped the spit off her face. She was teetering on the edge of madness."Search the area! Retrace her steps and leave no stone unturned!"…Jasper drove to
Jasper strode out of the room and hurried down the stairs, his pace so brisk that Xavier had to jog to keep up. As Jasper reached the living room, he spotted Justin sitting upright in his wheelchair, alone. Their eyes locked when Jasper was just a few steps away.Hostility flickered between their gazes.Curling his lips upward into a slight smile, Justin asked, "Jasper, heading out at this hour?"Xavier gritted his teeth, loathing the self-righteous air Justin exuded, as if he always held the upper hand. The sight made him want to charge forward and knock Justin clean off his wheelchair."It's late. Why aren't you in bed?" Jasper asked coldly, his tone as sharp as his glare. "It seems that broken body of yours is still holding up.""Jasper, you seem to be in a rush. Did something happen? Do you need my help?" Justin maintained the smile on his face, disregarding Jasper's sarcastic remark. "It's none of your business."Without another word, Jasper swept past him. Justin's
Jasper lay restrained on the bed, his body writhing violently as waves of agony crashed over him. A towel clenched between his teeth muffled his cries, though it could not silence the torment. Every inch of his skin felt as if it were being devoured by thousands of invisible ants—a relentless, gnawing pain brought on by withdrawal.He knew he could no longer rely on the medication. Time and again, the temptation clawed at him, urging him to surrender and take the easy way out. Relief was just a pill away. But Jasper's willpower, though battered, refused to shatter. Anne's words echoed in his mind, a guiding light in the darkness. She had always taught him to be a righteous man—one with a clear conscience. Curling into himself, Jasper shut his bloodshot eyes. He couldn't disappoint Anne. He couldn't let down those who believed in him. He had to resist the dark side. Outside the room, Xavier glanced at his wristwatch. Judging the timing to be right, he pushed the door open and l
"How about now? Is Ms. Altman at home?" Alyssa asked urgently."She isn't," Clark replied. "She drove out the back gate alone around 11:00 pm. Our security personnel stopped her then, but she said she was just going out for some fresh air because she had trouble sleeping. She promised she wouldn't be long, but it's strange—she hasn't returned even now."Alyssa's ears began to ring, her heart sinking like a stone.When she ended the call, her nightgown clung to her skin, drenched in cold sweat. Her trembling hand gripped the phone tightly.She thought of calling Jonah, but he was still searching for Julien in Mosgravia. He wouldn't be able to return in time. Silas wasn't home tonight; he was likely with Rose. Besides, he was more of an academic than a fighter—not someone who could help in a crisis. Getting him out of bed in the middle of the night couldn't possibly solve any of their problems. Axel had returned to his organization, leaving Cyrus as the only one accessible who mi
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