Michael scrutinized the two sets of documents Debra handed him. The information about Shelia from Beaconridge High matched what he had described earlier, except for one glaring discrepancy—the photo."I couldn't remember wrong," Michael muttered, returning the documents to Debra. "The only explanation is that someone swapped the photos of these two."Debra studied the documents, her mind racing.She needed to find a way to contact the girl in the photo.This was the key to unraveling the mystery surrounding Shelia's true identity."Why are you so concerned about Shelia's identity?" Michael's sudden question snapped her back to the present.Debra looked up, remembering the rumors circulating about the two of them. However, Michael didn't seem worried at all."Should I organize a rigorous PR meeting now?" Debra said, flipping through the documents. "It's just a rumor, after all. Besides, don't you want a bit of scandal to boost your fame?"Michael froze, and Debra continued, "Con
Leanna wrinkled her brow."Oh, I've completed all these plans," Shelia said, handing over the proposals.Leanna glanced at the documents before speaking. "Don't leave after work today, Shelia. There's a dinner party tonight, and I need you to come along."Shelia blinked in surprise. "Me?"She was just an intern.Leanna offered her a reassuring smile. "I remember you mentioning that you've attended social gatherings and dinners before. You have experience, and I trust you to handle this."Shelia felt relieved. While she might be inexperienced in many areas, she was no stranger to social events, having accompanied Juan to numerous functions.Back in her office, Leanna dialed Debra's number promptly. "Ms. Frazier, I've informed Shelia as you instructed.""Good.""Also, I think I saw Shelia with two phones just now.""Two phones?"Debra's curiosity was piqued, but she dismissed the observation for the time being. "Forget that for now. Just take her to the restaurant tonight.""
"Please spare me." Tears streamed down Shelia's face."Don't play innocent with us, young lady. Just because you've played dead and latched onto a wealthy man doesn't mean all your problems disappear. Your benefactor has abandoned you, and now you need to find another sugar daddy to clear your mother's 80-million-dollar gambling debt. Do that, and maybe we'll let you off the hook.""What? 80 million? How could there be so much debt?""You tell me."As they exchanged glances, realization dawned on Shelia. "You're loan sharks. This is illegal."They burst into laughter. "Illegal? Do you think you can lecture us? It's only right to pay back what's owed. Your mother signed the IOU herself.""I have nothing to do with her anymore. Why should I pay?"One of the men brandished her birth certificate. "A daughter inherits her mother's debts. Do you think changing your identity will erase that? Your family's history is all here. You won't escape us until every cent is repaid."Just then,
Debra offered a faint smile. "Alright, I'll go with you."Joe stepped aside, allowing her to pass, and Debra followed him out. Halfway down the corridor, she paused and asked, "Recently, has Miss Miles been trying to contact Juan?"Joe nodded. "Miss Miles did call me a few times, but as instructed by Mr. Nichols, I didn't respond.""I see," Debra said, a smile spreading across her face.So, Shelia was still trying to reach out to her financial lifeline.Except for Juan, probably no one would come to her aid.Sensing that Debra might have misunderstood the situation, Joe quickly explained, "Mr. Nichols has indeed decided to cut ties with Miss Miles this time. Perhaps you didn't know, but previously, Mr. Nichols only brought her to some events to make you jealous."Debra waved a hand dismissively, her smile casual. "You don't need to explain. I already know."Joe was stunned. He had sensed that Debra had changed somehow, but he couldn't quite pinpoint it. Now, seeing her expressi
Shelia's face contorted with anger. "Do you have any idea how much money you owe? You expect me to help you? I don't have that kind of money."Clarissa's eyes gleamed with a mix of desperation and hope. "But you've got that sugar daddy, haven't you? I heard he treats you well and takes you everywhere. Aren't you about to become his wife soon? The Nichols family is filthy rich. They can easily cover the debts."Shelia paled at the mention of Juan. "If I were to become his wife, those creditors wouldn't be hounding me."She knew Clarissa had been boasting to the creditors about her impending marriage to Juan, and they knew Juan had taken her to various events.But now, they somehow learned Juan cut off all her funds and came knocking, taking away almost everything valuable.Gritting her teeth, Shelia hissed, "If you hadn't leaked my info, those creditors wouldn't be here. You're dragging me down with you. Why don't you just disappear?"Clarissa's face was twisted with resentment. "
Clarissa eyed her warily. "How can I help you?"Shelia leaned in, her voice dropping to a whisper. "I know you've been around the casino scene for years. You must know some heavy hitters. I need a favor."As Shelia shared her plan, Clarissa paled with fright. "No. Absolutely not!"Shelia's eyebrows furrowed in displeasure."Why not? Back then, you weren't afraid to dispose of bodies. Are you scared now?""That girl was an orphan. No one would investigate much for her. And you were there as a replacement; it was foolproof. Of course, I wasn't scared. But Debra is the daughter of the Frazier family and Juan's wife. How could I dare touch her?"Clarissa wasn't foolish. She knew the stakes were high. If they followed Shelia's plan, she might end up dead in a matter of days.Shelia tightened her grip on Clarissa's hand. "I'm not asking you to kill her. You need money urgently. Just kidnap her and use her to ransom Juan. I'll handle the rest, and you'll have no involvement.""But..."
Juan, concerned that Debra might misinterpret his intentions, explained, "Taking over your family business isn't a simple matter. I just...""I know what you mean," Debra interjected, a smile playing on her lips, though her eyes held no warmth. "I was just teasing you. Don't take it seriously."She was more than glad to meet those insiders. Knowing more people meant more opportunities.Juan nodded, relieved that she understood his perspective."Joe is waiting downstairs for us."He extended a hand to Debra, but she didn't take it. Instead, she said, "You go ahead. Send me the location.""Not together?""I think I'll change into something else," Debra said, gesturing to her simple attire.She hadn't even applied makeup before leaving today.Juan chuckled, his eyes sweeping over her. "You look good in anything. No need to dress up.""Can't do that," Debra insisted. "After all, I'm meeting clients. I should look presentable to complement your handsome appearance."A faint smile
Debra stood on the second floor, a slight smirk playing on her lips as she watched Hester scurry about.She hadn't expected Hester to be so eager, but it worked in her favor. It saved her the trouble of devising another plan to bring Hester out into the open.Returning to her room, Debra selected her gown for the evening. Naturally elegant, she didn't require much adornment, but tonight she intended to shine. It was time to leverage her identity as Mrs. Nichols and make a wave.An hour later, she descended the stairs, but Hester was nowhere in sight.Melody sat on the sofa, her eyes narrowing as she took in Debra's attire. "It's late. Who are you going out with, dressed like that?""Grandma, I have a business discussion with Mr. Nichols. It's almost time, so I must leave now," Debra replied, having no intention of accommodating her anymore."Debra, what's with this attitude?" Melody snapped. "Have you forgotten how you begged me when you wanted to marry Juan?"Debra paused, a sm
"Shut up! I don't need your opinion," Liza huffed, turning to leave.Debra called after her, "Leave the invitation. I'll need it in two days."Liza was pissed off, knowing Debra was taunting her. Her fists clenched at her sides, but there were more pressing matters at hand.So, she bit her tongue and flung the invitation back onto the table.Debra scoffed, seeing through her intention. "Save yourself the trouble. She won't see you."Liza froze mid-step and turned back to face her. "How so?""If she wanted to see you, she wouldn't be ignoring your calls and messages," Debra replied nonchalantly. "In families like ours, it's better not to invest too much emotion. You treat her as your best friend, but she leaves you for interest.""You're lying!" Liza snapped, her voice trembling. "You're just trying to drive a wedge between us. Cathryn would never treat me like that.""Let's make a bet then," Debra said, her smile widening. "If you manage to contact her before the party, I'll ad
Liza's voice roused Debra from her lazy slumber. She wrapped a blanket around her shoulders and sauntered out to find the courtyard in chaos.Leaning against the doorframe, she asked, "What brings you here so early, Miss Eaton?"She was dressed in a red lace nightgown that accentuated her fair skin and striking features. Her every movement was graceful and alluring.Unimpressed, Liza glared at her. "Early? It's practically noon."Debra plugged her ears. "What do you want?""Ma'am, I'll get rid of her. You can go back and continue your nap," offered the guard.Debra waved him off. "No need. Let her in."She tightened the blanket around her and walked into the living room.The weather there was unpredictable. It was sometimes scorching and sometimes freezing.She sat on the sofa and poured herself a cup of tea. The absence of hospitality annoyed Liza."Where are the servants?""There aren't any.""What the hell? Is this how you treat your guests? You invite me in, and you won
Bert's expression turned grave. A servant approached him. "Sir, I heard that Miss Bernard is getting engaged to Drake. Invitations have been sent out, but Miss Eaton doesn't know yet.""Keep it that way," Bert ordered. "Liza is impulsive and might do reckless things if she finds out. She's spoiled, but she values her friendship with Cathryn. It would break her heart to know Cathryn is with Drake now.""Understood. I'll make sure the news is contained," said the servant.Juan silently watched the scene. Garland peeked through the door crack."What's got you so captivated?""Nothing."Juan sank back into the couch, his expression unreadable."You know, Liza has got a way with people," Garland said, his tone smug. "When she gets involved, your grandmother has to pack her things and go back.""That's not what I'm worried about.""Then what are you worried about?""Did you get the invitation?""Invitation? What invitation?""To the engagement party of Cathryn and Drake.""What?
Garland looked at the files, his initial spark of interest instantly extinguished.Just then, Liza's voice echoed from outside the door. "Why are you still here? My dad doesn't like you. Why are you still hanging around?"Juan frowned, and Garland perked up his ears. "Sounds like a fight. Should I go break it up?"But Juan knew better. Garland was more likely to stir the pot than calm things down."Miss Eaton, please take it easy."Juan cracked open the door to see Liza tossing Melody's luggage out, scattering expensive jewelry and dresses across the floor.The maids tried to calm her down, but Liza was beyond control.Melody's face darkened as the scene unfolded. The noise drew Bert out of his room.He scolded, "Liza, mind your manners.""Dad! Why are you letting her stay in our house? I don't like her. I don't want her here." Liza threw a tantrum.Seeing her belongings strewn across the floor, Melody said bitterly, "I guess I've overstayed my welcome. I'll pack my things an
Debra chuckled, "Sometimes, you're really cheap."Marion said seriously, "But I'm always honest with you, dear.""Really?""Absolutely.""Then how do you explain the eight billion dollars you cost me at our first meeting?"Marion took a sip of his tea and grimaced. "This tea's gone cold. Let me get you a fresh cup.""Get back here." Debra grabbed Marion and yanked him down into his seat."I'll do whatever you say to make up.""Put that aside for now. Now tell me your plans for handling the banquet.""Guess we can't miss the show.""Cathryn's crush on you is public knowledge here. Are you planning to hand her fresh gossip on a silver platter?""I'm not attending it. You can go. I'll stay outside the hotel to keep guard. Won't glance at any other woman.""Wise choice."...Across town at the Eaton Mansion, Garland sat hunched over his computer.He typed and retyped search terms, only to come up empty each time."What happened to my trending topics? They're all gone?" he m
Marion set down his newspaper and walked over to examine the invitation in Debra's hand."Drake is in such a hurry. He must be desperate to secure resources.""He's eager to deal with you?""Not necessarily. It could also be trouble brewing in Orkgate.""Something happened there?"Debra tried to recall any signs of trouble from her last stay in Orkgate, but there hadn't been anything that would warrant such urgency.In truth, Drake could just stay there and rule.There was no need for him to venture overseas and stir up trouble, which ultimately led to his broken engagement with the Eaton family and his near-total loss of face.Anyone else in his position would have slunk away in shame, but Drake was too proud for that."I'm not sure," Marion admitted. "Orkgate is his territory. I promised not to interfere there."He then noticed her disappointment for not getting any juicy news. He smiled and ruffled her hair. "But I have my informants. If anything happens, they'll let me
Drake's logic was persuasive, almost hypnotic.Cathryn found herself wavering. "But Liza... ""She's your friend, right? She'll understand. Besides, this is just a business arrangement, not a real marriage. It's just to create some tension for Marion."Cathryn was convinced. "Alright, I'll prepare the gala. But you must explain everything to Liza afterward.""Okay," Drake replied.But his smile faded as soon as Cathryn left.Kale asked, "Boss, are you really going to explain this to Miss Eaton?""Explain my ass," Drake snorted. "Once I get engaged to her, I'll gain control of the Bernard family's resources. Then I'll have enough power to take on Marion. Who cares about her petty little scandals?"Kale mused, "So, you were fooling her?"Drake explained, "She's the only one left in her family. If it weren't for those resources, do you think I'd even consider an engagement with her? She's clueless. Once she hosts the gala and announces the news to the media, do you think she can
Drake sneezed in his study.Kale came in and reported, "Miss Bernard is here."Drake waved his hand. "Let her in."Kale opened the door to reveal Cathryn standing hesitantly outside. She had come upon learning that Marion had taken Debra away.Drake glanced at her and read her mind. "She was rescued. Helping you cost me a lot."Cathryn stammered, "Don't make it sound so noble. You did it for yourself.""What now? We're in this together. Marion has learned you collaborated with me to kidnap Debra." Drake rested his cheek on his hand. "But it's not a bad thing. At least, Marion can't ignore you anymore."Cathryn bit her lip, stepping forward. "I know you have other plans. We can't let her stay with Marion. You gotta help me for my father's sake."But the mention of the past only served to annoy Drake.Cathryn quickly added, "If it weren't for my father, you wouldn't have made it to Orkgate or become the Lowe family's adopted son. You owe me."Drake snorted, "You're right. I owe
She had known for a while that Melody was coming after her. That wasn't a well-kept secret. But seeing it plastered online and climbing the trending charts? That was a whole new level of absurdity."Let me see." Marion emerged from the bathroom, drying his hair.He leaned over, glanced at the phone, and nodded approvingly. "That's catchy.""I'm going to find out which genius published this." Debra's fingers flew over her phone, tracing the story back to its source. When the name of New Age popped up on her screen, she froze."New Age?" she murmured, remembering that it was Garland's news agency."Something wrong?" Marion asked.Debra blinked. "I spent 50 million dollars to buy that newspaper. So..." Her own company had just broken a report on her. That was the next level....In the study room, Garland was livid, yelling into his phone, "What were you thinking? Are you people brain-dead? Who let you publish that story? And then you dumped ad money into it too? Did you want t