In the meeting roomAurora Walton’s proposal moved away from the conventional, repetitive spa retreat designs. Instead, she blended the lush, tropical ambiance of Caribbean resorts with the sleek elegance of Scandinavian minimalism.Each section of the wellness resort featured a unique theme—"Celestial Springs," "Woodland Retreat," and "Botanical Haven"—creating a diverse and immersive experience for guests.She introduced interactive elements, such as hot spring yoga and water parks, making the resort more engaging for visitors.The SPA partnership plan was equally refreshing—no longer limited to domestic brands, her proposal included collaborations with renowned international wellness brands, elevating the resort’s luxury and appeal.For dining, she went beyond traditional health-focused cuisine, incorporating local specialty dishes, ensuring a wider variety of options to cater to different tastes.The accommodation area was also upgraded with smart technology—each room would be equi
"Mr. Joseph… I… I really didn’t expect that girl to…" Chuck swallowed hard, his voice shaking. "She… she’s nothing like she was when she first joined the company!" "Nothing like before? What do you mean? Spit it out!" Joseph cut him off impatiently, his tone dripping with disdain. "Didn’t you tell me before that you had her wrapped around your finger? Now you can’t even handle one woman? What the hell do I need you for?" Chuck felt his stomach churn. His hands trembled as he tried to explain. "Joseph, she… she’s different now. I… I’m no match for her at all." He then exaggerated the events of that morning, emphasizing how Aurora had effortlessly flipped him over her shoulder and completely humiliated him in front of the entire office. "Over-the-shoulder throw?" Joseph’s voice carried a hint of disbelief. "A grown man like you got thrown by a woman?" He sounded as if he had just heard the most ridiculous joke of his life, his words laced with mockery. "Chuck, y
Lucas’ deep voice came through the receiver, laced with a hint of exhaustion and a faint smile. Aurora paused, glancing at the time in the corner of her screen. "Aren’t you busy today? How do you have time to pick me up?" She clicked open another document, her eyes scanning through its contents. "I planned this ahead of time," Lucas said, his voice softening. "There are too many shady people around lately. I don’t feel safe letting you go home alone." A subtle warmth rose in Aurora’s chest. She absentmindedly touched her earlobe, the corners of her lips curving up. "I need to work a little longer. This report is due tomorrow." "Then I’ll come up and keep you company." Before she could stop him, the call ended. "Wait—" Aurora tried to protest, but the line had already gone dead. She stared at her phone for a moment before instinctively scanning the office. Even though it was after hours, a few coworkers were still at their desks, finishing up their work. If
Aurora took the piece of bread from Lucas and took a small bite. The warm, toasty flavor mixed with a subtle sweetness, instantly washing away the fatigue of working overtime. Lucas watched her intently, his gaze soft and gentle, a faint smile playing at the corners of his lips. The last rays of sunlight filtered through the glass windows, casting a golden glow over his sharp features, making him look even more striking. The faint scent of his cologne, mingling with the rich aroma of coffee, created a calming and intoxicating presence. With broad shoulders and a strong, upright posture, every inch of him exuded the quiet confidence of a mature man. "You got this from downstairs?" Aurora swallowed her bite and looked up at him, a hint of surprise in her voice. Lucas nodded, a trace of warmth flickering in his deep-set eyes. "I was going to come straight up, but I saw a few of your coworkers still around. I figured you wouldn’t want the attention, so I went to grab some
Aurora leaned back in her seat. "It's so late. Where are we going?" "I have a friend who runs a racetrack in the mountains. Want to check it out?" Lucas turned the steering wheel. "The view at night is stunning. You can see the entire city skyline from up there." Aurora paused for a moment, then her eyes lit up with excitement. "Street racing? Seriously?" She straightened in her seat. "I used to race with my friends back in college, but after I started working, I barely had time for it." "Perfect. Tonight, you can relive the thrill." Lucas smirked and increased the speed slightly. The car sped toward the mountain racetrack. The cool night air drifted in through the half-open window, carrying the crisp scent of the hills, sweeping away the fatigue of the day. Before long, the black Maybach pulled into the racetrack’s parking lot at the mountaintop. As the car came to a stop, Lucas got out first and walked around to open the door for Aurora like a gentleman. A man dres
Aurora leaned drowsily against Lucas, her warm breath brushing against his neck, carrying a faint trace of alcohol. She lifted a hand and lazily poked his chest, her fingertip tracing circles on his shirt. "Lucas, why… why are you so tall?" Lucas’s gaze darkened slightly. His Adam’s apple moved as he swallowed, his voice deep and steady. "You’re drunk." "I’m not drunk!" Aurora muttered in protest, wrapping her arms around his neck and hanging onto him completely. "I’m perfectly clear-headed! I just… just think you look really good." She tilted her head up, her hazy almond eyes gazing at him. The corners of her eyes were slightly flushed, carrying a hint of intoxication that made her look irresistibly sweet and delicate. Lucas felt a sudden warmth surge through his chest, a current of electricity running through his body. Suppressing the emotions rising inside him, he kept his tone as calm as possible. "Stop messing around. Let’s get you inside." With that, he scoope
The next morning, Aurora was jolted awake by the sound of her alarm.She rubbed her sleepy eyes and reached out toward the other side of the bed, only to find it empty.Lucas hadn’t come home last night.A flicker of unreadable emotion flashed across her eyes.Throwing off the covers, she stepped onto the cool floor and walked to the wardrobe. She casually picked out a beige knit sweater and a pair of black wide-leg pants.After washing up, she grabbed a quick breakfast before heading out the door.At the office, Aurora sat at her desk, powered on her computer, and started working.But no matter how hard she tried, she just couldn’t focus.Images of Lucas’ cold expression from last night when he answered that call, his hurried departure—it all kept replaying in her mind.She made herself a cup of hot coffee, the warmth gradually clearing her head, allowing her to finally immerse herself in work.As the end of the workday approached, her phone screen lit up with a messenger notification
Aurora's expression turned icy the moment she heard his words.She met Joseph’s gaze head-on, her eyes sharp as blades. "Joseph, watch your mouth. My life has nothing to do with you. How I live is none of your damn business."Joseph was momentarily stunned by her retort, but he quickly recovered, putting on his usual condescending act."Capability? Aurora, what capability do you have? You’re nothing now! Without me, you’re just a worthless nobody!"His words were sharp, but they didn't faze her.She had long seen through Joseph’s hypocrisy and arrogance.Once, she had thought he was her salvation, her guiding light.But in the end, he had only ever seen her as something to manipulate and control at will."Joseph." Aurora’s voice was calm as she spoke."Three years ago, I was blind to ever like you. But now, I see clearly. You mean nothing to me. And I, Aurora Walton, am not someone you can insult however you please."Something in her resolute gaze seemed to sting Joseph. His expressio
With all eyes on her, Grace stepped proudly onto the stage.“Everyone, may I have your attention.”The crowd immediately quieted, curious to hear what she had to say.She turned her head toward Aurora, who was gracefully approaching, and extended her hand.Aurora understood the gesture and smiled—a soft, melting smile, like the first snow of winter giving way to spring. Then she gently placed her hand in Grace’s.Grace turned back to the guests and spoke with composure and pride.“Tonight’s business cocktail party was held for more than just celebration. I have two important announcements to make.”“First, I’d like to officially introduce the young woman standing beside me. This is the younger heiress of the Walton family and of Walton Corporation—Aurora Walton!”A collective gasp echoed across the hall.Some who already knew the truth reacted calmly, even remarking that the resemblance between Grace and Aurora was unmistakable.But those who hadn’t known were visibly stunned.“What?S
Grace gave Aurora a subtle look, gesturing for her to change into the gown that had just been gifted.Her current dress was soaked, and continuing to wear it was simply inappropriate for the occasion.Aurora agreed—she couldn’t go on like this. After offering a quick word of thanks, she followed the attendant to change.This time, Tessa didn’t follow.Her freshly manicured nails dug deep into her palm.But the pain in her hand couldn’t compare to the ache twisting in her chest.She had seriously underestimated her darling sister.So, Aurora had managed to climb into the good graces of the man behind Vanguard Group?All this time, she'd kept a low profile, hiding behind work and humility, only to come out with a move like this?“Fine. Let’s see who has the last laugh,” she thought.Grace, meanwhile, was feeling nothing but satisfaction. The timing of the CEO’s gift delivery couldn’t have been better—it was even more impactful than if he’d come in person.Now, everyone clustered around
At those words, the smile on Tessa's face completely cracked.Even Aurora herself was caught off guard.She didn’t have any real connection with the CEO of Vanguard Group—why would he be sending her anything?“Could there be a mistake?” she asked aloud, unable to stop herself.After all, she was just a low-level employee. She barely knew the man.Tessa’s eyes lit up with hope—maybe the gifts were meant for her? Maybe they had simply mistaken the two of them.But the bodyguard shook his head with unwavering certainty. “No mistake. The president gave clear instructions—these gifts are for Miss Aurora Walton.”Tessa nearly shattered her molars, her eyes burning with jealousy so intense it was practically visible.Around them, guests turned toward Aurora, their gazes filled with admiration and envy.Even her coworkers stood stunned, completely thrown off.The bodyguard looked to Aurora, his tone respectful. “Miss Walton, these are from our president. Please feel free to inspect them.”“The
With that thought, Lucas’ gaze swept toward Tessa, who instantly felt a chill crawl down her spine.Meeting his eyes, she unexpectedly flinched.And when she realized she had, Tessa nearly laughed out loud.She was a proud heiress of the Walton family.How could she possibly feel intimidated by some nobody?Straightening her back, she was just about to speak when a new wave of commotion erupted outside."What? The CEO of Vanguard Group is here?""Seriously? I need to go see for myself!"The crowd buzzed with excitement, and even Tessa’s heart skipped a beat.Sure, Julian was already impressive—but who didn’t crave more power? Who didn’t want the best?Self-preservation was human nature. Of course she wanted the best option available.She craned her neck with the rest of the crowd, eyes fixed on the entrance.Even Aurora felt a twinge of surprise.She murmured, "Didn’t expect the CEO to show up in person. He never makes public appearances."Lucas glanced at her, watching her lost in th
But Tessa wasn’t about to let Aurora off the hook so easily, not when her plan had just fallen apart.She quickly caught up, still clinging to her act of concern as she reached for the zipper at the back of Aurora’s dress. "Sister, let me help you. I’ll come with you. This hall is huge. It’s better if we look out for each other."As she spoke, she naturally moved in closer, her right hand inching forward.Aurora saw right through her. She sidestepped without hesitation, irritation flickering in her eyes. "I said I’ve got it. I don’t need help."She’d already arranged for someone to wait in the dressing room. The moment she put the dress on, something had felt off.So, she played along, just to confirm her suspicion that it was her dear sister who’d tampered with it.Judging by Tessa’s urgency, she had guessed right.Meanwhile, the dance continued behind them, but the subtle tugging between the two had already begun to draw attention.Aurora noticed the curious stares and didn’t want t
Aurora gave a slight nod and stepped into the room to meet with Grace.Grace's eyes lit up at the sight of her—Aurora looked absolutely radiant. Her delicate features, touched up just right, gave her an almost ethereal beauty. Grace felt a deep sense of satisfaction."Don’t be nervous tonight. You need to perform well during the opening dance."Aurora nodded. She understood how important the opening dance was—it was the first step in putting her in the public eye."By the way, has Lucas arrived yet?"Aurora recalled the message Lucas had sent her and explained, "Almost. He’s on the way. He just texted me.""Good. You know how we do things in the Walton family. It wouldn’t make sense to have you officially step in without that."Aurora nodded again, fully understanding. Then the two of them walked together toward the banquet hall.By the time they stepped out, most of the guests had already arrived.Grace felt a wave of pride and joy in her heart. These people all knew Walton Corpor
Hearing that the Chairwoman was looking for Aurora, Joseph stood frozen on the spot, completely caught off guard.His eyes widened, mouth slightly agape, and his voice shot up in pitch, making him look rather ridiculous. "You’re the second heiress of the Walton family?"Aurora raised an eyebrow and nodded without hesitation. "What, are you shocked?"It was almost laughable. After three years together, he still had no idea who she really was.The hall manager also looked at Joseph in surprise, wondering why this man was making such a fuss.Joseph’s overly loud voice had drawn attention, and soon the area became a small spectacle.Thinking back to those three years with Aurora, Joseph remembered how plain her clothes had been, how she lived in a rented place until he couldn’t stand it anymore and let her move in with him.How could someone like that possibly be the rumored second heiress of the Walton family?When he finally processed everything, his expression shifted from shock to disd
As soon as those words were spoken, a wave of murmurs spread through the crowd."Is that true?"Someone voiced their doubt. "Exactly. The CEO of Vanguard Group never attends events like this. No one has even seen what he really looks like.""That’s just what I heard. Who knows if it’s true or not.""If he really shows up at this party, Walton Corporation’s status will be on a whole different level."Everyone nodded in agreement.Who in Ravenshore hadn’t heard of his decisive methods?Not to mention his standing in the city—he was a force above the elite families.Upstairs on the second floor, Tessa watched the scene below. Her beautiful features twisted slightly with frustration. She knew all too well what the purpose of this event was.But why?They were both heiresses of the Walton family, so why was Grace so biased?The resentment in Tessa’s heart was about to overflow.She turned and saw a row of rooms on the second floor. When her eyes landed on the one labeled “Dressing Room,”
Aurora stood to the side with a constant smile on her face. This time, she could finally breathe a sigh of relief.She had passed Grace’s test. What came next was the real challenge.Once the excitement died down, Grace looked at Aurora with a smile in her eyes. “Aurora, come to my office.”Aurora was a little surprised but simply replied, “Okay,” and followed her mother out.“The Chairwoman’s definitely going to reward her with something.”“I think there’s a good chance she’ll get promoted.”“You’re probably right. We’ve all seen what Aurora’s capable of.”“Exactly. Aurora’s ideas played a huge role in securing this project!”No one in the department thought otherwise. Everyone genuinely felt happy for her.As Aurora followed Grace into the office, she understood that her mother was about to honor the bet.But ever since what had happened last time, there was still a thorn in her heart.“Madam Grace, what do you need from me?” Aurora shut the door behind her and looked calmly at Grace