"You've always wanted to get into the research institute, right? Well, now's your chance to show them all what you're made of. It's just a bunch of idle gossip anyway. They're not going to say it to your face, so what's the big deal?""Can't you just leave me alone, Mom? If it weren't for you, I wouldn't be in this situation."He truly regretted it. Perhaps he had never truly let go of Quinn. However, he had always been too afraid to fight for what he wanted."Simon Xandor!" Shania bellowed, clearly not expecting him to blame her for everything."Everything I've done is for your sake. How dare you talk to me like that? How could you be so heartless? You're no different from your father. You've both been bewitched by the mother-daughter duo, Lisa and Quinn!" Shania had always been very sensitive to this issue.Simon was truly exhausted. "Give it a rest, Mom. Maybe Dad left because he couldn't handle your controlling nature."After all, no one could ever stand being controlled by
Shania brought Simon and Kimberly along to meet with Stanley. Xandor Group was also in the running for the bidding. She believed that their company would definitely win the bid. They were dead set on winning the project."It's been a while, Mr. Kane," Shania said as she offered him a toast.Although the Xandors were the wealthiest in Jipsfort, they paled in comparison to the affluent families in Dudore. Given that the Kane Group was a local powerhouse in Dudore, she was eager to foster a strong alliance with them, hoping to benefit from their influence."It's truly been a while, Mrs. Xandor."After a brief chat, Shania steered the conversation toward the project. "Please have faith in Xandor Group's capabilities, Mr. Kane. I'm sure we'll have a very pleasant collaboration on this project.Shania completely dismissed the other competitors. She believed that they were in no way a match for Xandor Group."We'll find out who wins the bid tomorrow. As always, Kane Group is committed t
Xavier had gone to pick up Quinn, but unexpectedly, Victor was there as well. It turned out that both of them had extended invitations to her.Without a moment's hesitation, Quinn had proposed that they all go together, thus ensuring that neither of them would feel disappointed.Upon entering the banquet hall, Xavier immediately wrapped his arm around Quinn's waist.He then cast a triumphant glance at Victor. His expression clearly implied that he was Quinn's man.Despite their arrival as a group, it was clear that he was Quinn's partner for the evening and Victor was merely someone who had tagged along.Upon seeing that, Victor couldn't help but scoff.How childish of him! He never expected someone as formidable as Xavier to be so immature. Did he really like Quinn that much?Quinn wanted to slap his hand away. Yet, upon realizing that everyone was watching them, she decided not to bother with it.As soon as Quinn showed up, Simon felt a strange pull toward her. His gaze was i
"All I know is that Quinn will also be participating in tomorrow's bidding. Do you think she'll win this project, Mrs. Xandor?"Shania sneered and replied, "Quinn? She doesn't stand a chance of getting this project!"Shania was rather pissed. Everyone in Jipsfort kissed up to the Xandors, but Stanley completely disregarded her. Even though he was indifferent toward her, he was exceptionally friendly toward Quinn.It was a sight that filled one with envy and resentment.…Meanwhile, Quinn introduced Stanley to Victor. She said, "Good evening, Mr. Stanley. I'd like you to meet Victor Compton, our data analyst for this project."Stanley naturally knew who Victor was. It came as a surprise that Four Seasons Incorporated managed to recruit him."It's an honor to finally meet you. I have long admired your work and have always wanted to bring you on board at Kane Group. Unfortunately, we never had the chance to collaborate."He wasn't just buttering him up; he really meant it.Kane G
Meanwhile, having discovered Victor's impressive credentials, Shania wanted to recruit him into her company. After all, who in the business world hadn't heard of Victor?Upon seeing that Quinn wasn't with Victor, Shania approached him with a glass of champagne.Victor couldn't help but raise his brow as he saw her approaching him. He was already used to these situations, so he wasn't surprised at all. However, knowing that she was Quinn's enemy, he decided to play a little trick on her."Good evening, Mr. Compton. I'm the president of Xandor Group. I've been looking forward to meeting you after having heard so much about you." "Oh, you flatter me. It's just a little reputation. Nothing more.""You're far too modest, Mr. Compton. Given your exceptional talent, I believe you would be an invaluable asset to our company. We have a great benefits package here that's way better than what you're getting at Four Seasons Incorporated."Shania immediately stated her purpose. She believ
Victor was a notorious playboy. He was always playing with people's hearts. Even though his abilities were undeniable, he lacked genuine feelings.Despite his shortcomings, he had always been very kind to his fellow mentees. He never hesitated to help them out. Xavier casually settled into a seat while lazily holding half a glass of champagne. His languid pose made him a striking figure against the backdrop of the event.At that moment, a wealthy heiress couldn't help but come over to strike up a conversation."May I have the pleasure of a dance, sir?" Nina Murray asked. Her voice was laced with boldness."I'm not interested," Xavier said bluntly.He was so enraged that all he could think about was cutting off Victor's hand. How dare he rest that lecherous hand of his on Quinn's waist! It seemed like Victor didn't mind losing it."Well, can I at least get your number? You're exactly my type," Nina asked. She refused to back down."Scram!"Xavier had been as polite as could be
As he watched Quinn from the shadows, Simon felt a deep sense of loss. She was meant to be his, but now he had lost everything.Simon hadn't asked her to dance once since the music started. Kimberly felt humiliated. She clenched her fist, and her nails dug into her palm.Upon seeing Quinn in the spotlight, Shania was filled with resentment. Quinn was nothing but a mere vixen! She was already taken, but she still couldn't keep her hands off Victor. Shania couldn't fathom what Victor saw in her."Go dance with Kimberly, Simon! You don't need to keep me company here," Shania said as she nudged Simon."Simon, if you're not up for dancing—"Before Kimberly could finish her sentence, Simon suddenly grabbed her hand and dragged her onto the dance floor. They were almost right next to Xavier and Quinn.He couldn't help but think how perfect it would be if Quinn were in his embrace. He had truly loved Quinn—or perhaps a part of him still held onto those feelings."Simon, the research i
"I used to think Simon was great, but compared to Quinn's current partner, Simon just doesn't measure up."All the women present dreamed of being in Xavier's arms, while all the men there wished they were the ones holding Quinn.She truly was the most beautiful woman in Jipsfort. As soon as she returned, all the other beauties in Jipsfort paled in comparison.Samuel was watching the whole time. Quinn first partnered with Victor for a dance, then with Xavier.As for him, he was too afraid to even ask her for a dance. He feared she would turn him down. Upon seeing his son in such a state, Stanley helplessly shook his head and said, "If you're interested in someone, don't be afraid to make a move. Unrequited love only brings heartache.""What if she doesn't like me back, Dad? Am I perhaps not good enough for her?" Samuel, who was usually so confident, was suddenly feeling insecure.Upon hearing that, Stanley was genuinely taken aback. "You're my son, Samuel. How could you possibly
Whoever said women lack desire was wrong. Sometimes, a woman's longing could catch the man off guard.Faced with Quinn's boldness, Xavier found it impossible to resist. His desire for her was burning within him.Since being with her, he'd wanted her constantly, and tonight was no exception.Quinn tilted her head, and Xavier landed a peck on her neck, one of her most alluring features.His kiss felt like a gentle spring breeze as he began softly at her lips.That light touch flipped a switch within her. It sent electric tingles racing through her body. It was as if he wielded some mysterious power. As he glided his lips down her neck, each caress sent shivers coursing through her, making her tremble involuntarily.With each kiss moving lower, her heartbeat quickened. She felt as though she were immersed in a sweet dream, and his kisses were the leading melody of this ethereal experience.From her lips to her neck and then to her chest, each kiss ignited a flame deep within her. She cou
"I can't go to the hospital. I messed with the wrong people," Edison murmured. He remembered Quinn's warning. She was connected to Xavier, and he wouldn't dare provoke him."Who did you mess with?" Frank asked, but Edison brushed him off. "How's it going with the research institute?"At the mention of it, Frank hesitated. Was Quinn really that influential? Could Edison's beating be connected to her?"It's... fine. You should rest, Dad. I have to go study," Frank replied. He dared not mention how Quinn had twisted his arm.Meanwhile, Xavier and Quinn escorted Edgar back to the hospital.Edgar clearly didn't want to stay. "Ms. Quinn, I'd really like to go home. I don't like staying in the hospital." His days in the hospital felt like years dragging by—an experience that was anything but pleasant."Did the doctor say you could go home?" Quinn asked."I'm really fine, Ms. Quinn.""Only when the doctor says so." Quinn ignored his complaints."It's suffocating in here. I need to che
Edison's plump body crashed to the floor with a heavy thud.Quinn stepped on his hand, eliciting a pained scream from him.Edison stared up at her, bewildered. This young lady, who looked like an angel, was surprisingly brutal."Do you know what Edgar looked like when I found him?" Quinn's voice was icy.Edgar was like a younger brother to her, and she wouldn't stand for anyone hurting him.Edison fell silent after realizing he had underestimated her."How do you plan to pay for this, Edison?" Quinn picked up a fork from the table.Edison tried to get up, but with her foot on his hand, he couldn't move at all. "What are you doing? Let me tell you—"Before he could finish his sentence, Quinn drove the fork through his palm. His screams echoed in the room.Edison had never imagined they would dare to act so brazenly in Dudore. As he looked at his bleeding hand, his entire body trembled in fear. "W-What do you want?"The two bodyguards looked pale at the sight. They had never en
Since they were going to take revenge, Quinn had already ensured they knew the Faulkner family's whereabouts.The current head of the Faulkner family, Edison Faulkner, was responsible for what happened to Edgar. He was also Frank's father.Edison had a dinner engagement that night at a high-end clubhouse in Dudore.Though once a prestigious family, the Faulkner family had been struggling in recent years, but Edison was unwilling to accept that decline.He was determined to send Frank to the research institute, hoping that would restore the family's status. Tonight's dinner was meant to entertain higher-ups from the institute.As the glasses clinked and laughter filled the air, the door to the private room swung open unexpectedly.Edison frowned. Who was the blind fool who chose to enter at this hour? He already had people guarding the door."Who is it? I specifically said no one is allowed to enter!" Edison snapped.The higher-ups from the institute also wore grim expressions.
"Kid, you should just go face your punishment," Quinn said, declining."Come on, miss. Help me out here!" the young man pleaded."I can't help you. You can go now."The young man looked disappointed, but since Quinn had clearly rejected him, he had no choice but to leave."That poor guy," Nadia joked.Xavier, however, didn't share her sentiment. "I think Quinny handled it well. If she gave just anyone her number, she'd be in trouble someday."Besides, it wasn't like their game had anything to do with her. Why should she comply?They sat in the bar for over an hour.Quinn had something to attend to, so she took Nadia home first."Where are you going? Do you need my help?" Nadia asked. Although she wasn't good at fighting, she was willing to lend a hand."Just get some rest. It's nothing major. I'll handle it and be back before you know it," Quinn replied."Are you sure you'll be back tonight?" Nadia glanced at Xavier. She knew he couldn't leave her alone."Go home. Just make
"Nada, this fish is delicious. You should try it," Quinn said, passing the dish over.Nadia took a piece and nodded in approval. "This place really has great flavor. We should come here again."With both of them being people who didn't particularly enjoy cooking, they would probably end up eating out frequently."If you like it, I can have them deliver to your house. I'll get the manager to give you a business card later," Xavier offered.This restaurant didn't just have excellent food. The hygiene and service were top-notch as well."Really? I thought such a high-end restaurant wouldn't do deliveries.""They do," Xavier said. It was just a matter of asking anyway.After dinner, Nadia wanted to unwind a bit. Since arriving in Dudore, she hadn't had the chance to visit a bar, and Dudore was known for its nightlife.Now that she was here, she naturally had to experience it for herself."Quinny, are you heading back to the research institute tonight? If not, let's go to a bar for
Lisa's tone was especially gentle. After nearly three months of treatment, her condition had improved significantly.Gradually, she was becoming the serene Lisa she once was.Once the call ended, Quinn gazed out the window, oblivious to the fact that Xavier was still holding her hand.Xavier was holding her hand with one hand and gripping the steering wheel with the other. It wasn't until they reached the restaurant that he finally let go.He dropped Quinn and Nadia at the restaurant entrance while he went to find parking. The parking area was quite far, so he didn't ask them to come along.As he drove off, Quinn and Nadia waited at the entrance."Quinny, it's great to see Lisa coming back to herself," Nadia said with a smile.Although the past five years had been challenging, it was comforting to see everything getting better.Quinn felt a wave of joy as she reflected on Lisa's remarkable recovery. Given how bad Lisa had been before, it brought her immense happiness to see her
Nadia opened the car door and hopped in.Quinn wanted to join her at the back, but she declined. "Just sit in the front. It's a hassle switching around."Xavier smiled at this. Nadia, indeed, knew how to read the situation.She returned his smile.Xavier was a big shot, after all. Of course, she had to be wise."How's the hiring going? Do you need my help?" Quinn turned to Nadia."Don't worry. I've already hired three people. Since Sully is just starting out, I want to take it slow. I don't want to hire too many at once.""Alright, I'll leave it to you, then." Quinn was just the investor. She wouldn't interfere too much with how Nadia chose to run things."By the way, Quinny, how's everything at the research institute? You need to be cautious around those who hurt Edgar," Nadia said with a hint of worry."I know. Don't worry. There's no need to be concerned about them."Nadia shook her head. "Quinny, this is Dudore. You should be careful." People here would do anything for pr
Kimberly was also present. Noticing Simon's concern for Quinn made her fists clench unconsciously.She had her own plans to go out today. Gregory was going to introduce her to a big shot. He was slowly coming to recognize her potential and would provide her with all his resources."Simon, you know I'm not Maurice's daughter. I'm Gregory's daughter. Gregory Thorpe from the Thorpe family of Dudore. You're aware of that, right?" Kimberly spoke with pride.Simon looked into her eyes. "So what?""My dad is introducing me to a big shot today. Do you want to come? If you agree to get back with me now, I'll overlook everything that happened before.""No, thanks. I really don't need that. You go ahead," Simon replied firmly.In the past, it had always been Shania pushing him. Yet deep down, he wanted to stand on his own. It might seem naive, but he wanted to give it a try.Seeing him try to walk away, Kimberly grabbed his hand. "Simon, don't you want to get your mom out soon?"Why was h