She glanced at the person, taking a quick look and finding them somewhat familiar.If she remembered correctly, it was the one who had been shopping with Chuck. It seemed like her name was Linda.Aurora recalled the way Chuck had leered that day, and her stomach churned in disgust.She withdrew her gaze, calculating in her mind.Was Linda planning to take revenge for Chuck?How ridiculous. Chuck was nothing but scum, yet someone actually cared about him.Then again, Aurora thought, it did make sense. The two of them were probably just using each other.She shook her head, dismissing the thought.When the project manager arrived, Aurora pressed the Enter key one last time, saved the file to her desktop, and closed it."Hey, Aurora, come to the office for a moment.""Alright, I'm coming now."She stood up and followed the manager into the office.As soon as the door closed behind them, Linda dropped the act, glaring at the door with pure hatred.Bitch.Her resentment was impossible to h
"Aurora, you have to believe me! I really have no interest in the Vanguard Group project. If you secure it, I’d be genuinely happy for you, I swear!" Aurora looked at Lucy, pressing her lips together before giving her a firm pat on the shoulder. "Lucy, don’t worry. I understand. We’ve worked together long enough—I know what kind of person you are." Hearing this, Lucy’s eyes welled up with tears. In the office, she had always been the kind of person who gave more than she received. She was warm and helpful, always the one people turned to when they needed water refilled or documents printed. Yet once, when something went missing, she was the first suspect. That moment shook her. She had asked why, and the response was something she never expected. They said that because she got along with everyone, she had more opportunities to steal than anyone else. In that instant, Lucy had felt the weight of human malice. Still, she never let it dull her warmth toward life. So,
Aurora arrived at the office the next day.The moment she reached her desk, she noticed the subtle yet lingering glances coming from Linda’s direction.A faint smile tugged at the corners of her lips.She powered on her computer and casually took a seat, pretending not to notice the stares from across the room.Linda finally let out a quiet sigh of relief.She was busy skimming through the files on her USB drive—all of them Aurora’s project plans.“Aurora Walton, just you wait. Once I tweak these a little, they’ll all be mine.”Her plan was simple.“Once I present this proposal in the meeting, let’s see how you explain yourself. With everyone watching, not even the project manager will be able to protect you.”Lucy, having noticed Linda’s odd behavior, swiveled her chair toward Aurora and whispered, "Aurora, don’t you think Linda’s acting strange?"Aurora feigned ignorance. "What do you mean?""It’s just…" Lucy hesitated, uncertain. "She keeps staring at you. Like, a lot."Aurora gave
Not only did Linda refuse to apologize, but she even curled her lips into a mocking smile. Just thinking about the proposal in her USB drive filled her with excitement. She was about to take over this project and push Aurora out of the way—what was there to be worried about? Once she secured this deal, she could do whatever she wanted in the company. If she really won the project, she’d be hailed as a major contributor to Walton Corporation. So, what if she bumped into Aurora? Why should she bother apologizing? Lucy was furious. "What kind of person does that? She ran into you and didn’t even say sorry? That’s just shameless! No way, I’m going to confront her! Linda is getting ruder by the day!" She angrily rolled up her sleeves, ready to storm over and give Linda a piece of her mind. But Aurora stopped her just in time, shaking her head slightly. "Don’t be impulsive, Lucy. "She’s not worth it. Besides, we have a meeting to attend. Securing the Vanguard Group project
Aurora remained silent, resting her right hand against her chin as she lazily observed Linda.Every now and then, she lifted her gaze, exuding the air of a relaxed Persian cat—elegant yet indifferent.Linda carefully studied Aurora’s expression. Seeing her so calm and composed, she couldn’t help but clench her fists.“Fine, Aurora Walton, enjoy your arrogance while you can. In a moment, you won’t be able to say a word. “Let’s see what you amount to once this proposal is mine in front of the manager,” Linda thought.With an air of confidence, Linda strode onto the stage, her chin lifted high.Aurora found it utterly amusing.As soon as Linda plugged her USB drive into the computer and projected the proposal onto the screen, a glint of realization flashed in Aurora’s eyes.Just as expected.So, Linda really did steal her proposal.Aurora showed no obvious reaction—she merely raised an eyebrow, a faint, unreadable smile playing at her lips.It was as if she hadn’t even noticed Linda’s p
"Because you are not even qualified for this proposal." Aurora slowly stood up, her delicate face indifferent. She watched as Linda jumped around, as if watching a clown performing at a circus. Linda clenched her fists, her expression filled with indignation. "What do you mean by that?" Her face suddenly twisted with rage. "You must be jealous of my proposal, that's why you're saying this. Aurora, you’re so petty." At first, Linda was a little afraid when she saw Aurora stand up. But the next second, she suddenly remembered that she had already transferred Aurora’s documents. And she had spoken first. No matter how angry Aurora was, what difference would it make? Whoever presented the proposal first owned it. The project manager also turned to look at Aurora, his eyes darkening slightly as he considered the situation. "Aurora, you mean to say..." "Mr. Gardener!" Linda couldn't help but shriek, interrupting him. "Aurora is slandering a colleague! Why are you still g
After flinging Linda aside, Aurora gracefully took out a wet wipe and carefully wiped her fingers, one by one. That action only infuriated Linda even more. Once she recovered, she charged forward, ready to confront Aurora. "Aurora, you bitch! How dare you! I won’t let this go!" Her mind was consumed by rage. At this moment, she had completely forgotten that she was the one who stole someone else's work in the first place. But just as she was about to pounce, Ben stepped forward and grabbed her, speaking with righteous conviction. "Alright, Linda, we’re all colleagues. There’s no need to make things so embarrassing. Besides, maybe Aurora had a reason for doing this." The moment he said that, many people sensed something was off. Aurora, however, simply stated, "Of course I have my reasons. Linda’s proposal was plagiarized from the start." "Bullshit!" Having her secret exposed was like having the last shred of her dignity ripped away. Her voice grew louder. "You have t
Linda couldn't help but sneer. "Ha, just an empty bluff. I'd love to see what you can actually show us!" Aurora ignored her and continued opening the PowerPoint presentation. A brand-new proposal appeared on the screen. Not only was it more refined than Linda’s, but it was also meticulously detailed—right down to the fact that the celebrities had already been contacted. Aurora’s cool voice rang out steadily, "What Linda stole was just my initial draft.""But this—this is my final version. The hot spring resort can't just focus on luxury; we also need to consider accessibility for most families. That’s why my final proposal is broader in scope and far more feasible."As for the brand collaboration, I’m already in negotiations and have made substantial progress with them." As soon as she finished speaking, the room erupted into applause. Everyone stood up and clapped for her, their appreciation genuine. The applause was even louder than when Linda had presented her so-calle
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