Shelia had always dreamed of entering this classroom, but Debra seemed to have effortlessly gained admission.With that thought in mind, Shelia acted involuntarily, opening the classroom door.Her action caught everyone's attention. Randy glanced over, feeling the person at the door looked familiar. Shelia recognized Randy from the auction, where he had helped Debra."Which class are you from?" Randy asked, puzzled.Debra also noticed Shelia at the door.Startled by her own action, Shelia blurted out, "Sorry, wrong classroom."With that, she shut the door hastily.As the door closed, Shelia's heart pounded.The lecturer hadn't recognized her just now, but she knew him, Randy Osborne, the CEO of Osborne Corporation.They had met before, but he didn't remember her at all.It showed how insignificant she was in these rich people's minds.Inside the classroom, laughter erupted from Randy's joke, but to Shelia, it sounded like mocking.She turned, fleeing in shame and indignatio
Colleen pulled Debra into the car and drove them to a nearby nightclub.Debra stepped out of the car and was led to a reserved private room.Compared to the noise outside, the room was relatively quiet.As soon as the door opened, Debra saw Jordan sitting on the sofa.He was dressed in a punk style, his gaze icy. His fierce appearance added to his wild aura.The moment she had seen that car earlier, Debra had realized this was Jordan's set up.Colleen left without saying anything. Now it was just Debra and Jordan in the room."Mr. Jordan Potter, is it necessary to meet me here?" Debra turned to leave, but the door had been locked.It didn't scare her, though. Since she was Juan's wife, Jordan wouldn't dare to do anything to her, which was why she had come alone in the first place."It's safe here. No one will notice.""Meeting Juan's newlywed wife late at night could become scandalous news for both families."Debra shrugged. "I'm already notorious, so a little more infamy do
As Debra's smile faded, Jordan felt a rush of satisfaction.But in the next instant, Debra smiled again and said, "I never expected you to be so immature."Jordan frowned. "What did you say?""If you really had the guts to make a move on me, would you have secretly arranged to meet me?" Debra pushed him aside and sauntered around the private room."There are no cameras here, and it's noisy outside. No one would notice this small room. Are you afraid that your attempt to meet me secretly will be discovered by Juan or Andrew? It means you don't dare do anything to me."She sat down on the sofa and casually took a bite of an apple.She had been to such places before. Rooms like this were classified as top-tier in terms of secrecy. Usually, only important figures conducted deals here, and even a fly couldn't escape unnoticed.She looked at Jordan with a challenging gaze. "So, stop your childish threats. You can't scare me."Compared to the kidnapping by Aaron, this was child's play
Clearly, Jordan and Andrew had a unique bond.It just wasn't well-known to outsiders.Perhaps sensing Debra's thoughts, Jordan turned away and said, "Don't think you have me figured out.""I don't. Just talking randomly." Standing up, Debra said, "Alright, I've been here long enough. Can I go now?"Scowling, Jordan reached out a hand to stop her. "Wait.""You've kept me here and threatened me. What else do you want?" Debra asked.That was his plan of revenge, but Debra hadn't suffered any losses.On the contrary, Jordan got the short end of the stick.Feeling depressed, he had never been treated like this by any woman before."Do you know Juan has other women in Seamar City?" he suddenly asked."I do," Debra replied casually.It was Shelia.Debra's indifference puzzled Jordan. "You don't care?""It's a business marriage. What's there to care about?" Debra shrugged and added, "Are you trying to drive a wedge between Juan and me?"Jordan snorted, "I'm just saying this man i
"I've already had Randy investigate this. I believe we'll have results soon," Marion said steadily.His words reassured Debra a little."Can you guess who did it?" Marion asked.Debra rubbed her temples, and countless faces flashed through her mind. But no clear answer emerged."I have no idea, but it definitely wasn't Jordan."Marion chuckled, "So, the person you met privately was Jordan.""At a time like this, please don't joke around," Debra replied."If it was Jordan, it would be easy to handle," Marion said.Debra fell silent.That was true. The trending topic only mentioned her meeting a man at a nightclub without revealing his identity.This suggested either the poster didn't want Jordan's identity revealed or simply didn't know who he was, guessing only based on her jacket.The latter seemed more likely. After all, few would dare expose this matter online if they knew it was Jordan."Will the Potter family intervene?" Debra asked."Based on my understanding of Andr
A man like Juan, who had weathered many storms, definitely knew that this disclosure was nothing serious.That was why there had been no news from him after their morning phone call.Debra said, "Okay. Since it was my mistake, I'll go along with whatever you decide.""Just attend a press conference with me," Juan said."That simple?" Debra was puzzled.She didn't believe he would let her off the hook.Juan set down the newspaper in his hand. "Being a loving couple isn't as simple as you think."From his expression, Debra inferred his thoughts.That was true. It was indeed nauseating to act intimately with someone she didn't like.In her previous life, Juan had always resisted attending major events with her.It wasn't easy for him to pretend to be a loving couple with her."I'll cooperate unconditionally," Debra said, but then regretted it.Juan had Sophie prepare an elegant evening gown. Its blemish white color reminded her of Shelia.In her last life, this dress was worn
"Relax." Juan lowered his voice, casually reminding Debra."I'm not nervous," Debra countered, facing the different camera angles with ease.Juan recalled how seldom Debra attended such events in the past, oblivious to the efforts she had made in her previous life to get closer to him.He never found out, not even after her death.Soon, the product manager finished the introduction. Juan took Debra's hand, and they stepped onto the stage together.The journalists eagerly raised their cameras. Recently, rumors about these two had been circulating online, making many media outlets vie for scoops."This new property developed by the Nichols Group is divided into two sections, A and B. Larger apartments with four to five bedrooms are in A, while smaller ones with one to three bedrooms are in B. Surrounding amenities include large malls, primary and secondary schools, and excellent subway and bus access. The landscaping is designed by top-tier architects, and the interior layouts aim
"Nichols, Debra, you both spoke so well just now. I really learned a lot," Shelia said.Debra couldn't bring herself to smile.Juan and Debra had been displaying their affection, and Shelia seemed to be hinting that it was all for show.She wasn't entirely wrong.There had never been any genuine affection between Debra and Juan."It's crowded here. You should go back to school," Juan said coldly.Debra was surprised because he had never spoken to Shelia like this before.She wondered what had gotten into him today.Soon, she figured it out. Juan must have been cautious because of the journalist's question earlier.Shelia couldn't conceal her disappointment.Since the night of her birthday, Juan had been distancing himself from her. Even though she had called him to explain the matter, it didn't help much."Okay, I'll go back," Shelia agreed.Juan saw Shelia's despondent expression and started to regret his harsh tone.Watching Shelia walk away, Debra remarked, "A girl's he
"We're staying," replied the two partners in unison.Debra scanned the room. "And the rest of you? All staying?""Yes. No one's leaving," they quickly replied.A single feast couldn't beat steady meals. Juan's lower rates came with no long-term guarantees. Cutting ties with McKinney Group meant losing four partnerships at once. That was too costly.Debra crossed her arms. "Well then, mind telling me what Nichols Group promised to make you gang up on me?"Emmett stepped forward. "It was Mr. Jordan Potter and Mr. Nichols. They said they'd undercut your prices by 10%, with extra perks like priority partnerships and top-tier promotions."Debra nodded. "How generous! No wonder you flocked to them.""We were momentarily blinded by greed," replied the partners.Ben took a phone call and whispered, "Madam, Mr. Nichols is here."Debra's jaw tightened. "Is he the important person you mentioned in the earlier call?"Ben shook his head. "I'm not sure, but this morning, the front desk did
The partners exploded, "Are you sure about this?""Think twice. Without us, your fancy commercial street means nothing.""Yeah. When you go bankrupt, don't say we didn't warn you."Debra leaned back casually."We'll see. Ben, collect their penalty fees and escort them out.""Understood.""Oh, and no one leaves this room until they pay up."Ben blinked, not expecting her to be so ruthless. These partners had worked with them since the founding of the company. Cutting ties with them now spelled disaster."Are you sure, Mrs. Houston?""Maybe we can renegotiate." Two partners wavered.Debra smirked, knowing their vulturous nature all too well."Come on, you're the ones threatening to leave," she said, sweeping a gaze across the room. "Since Nichols Group's offering sweeter terms, I won't hold you back. Enjoy your windfall."Howard Avery glanced at Emmett. The latter puffed up. "Fine. We'll go."Debra gestured to the door. "Don't let it hit you on the way out."Emmett glare
Another shareholder chimed in, "Alexander has a point. We've been partners for a year. Are you really gonna bail over some gossip? Fine. You can leave after paying back every perk Mrs. Houston ever gave you."The room fell silent. Truth was, Debra had always been the fairest business partner they'd ever had.Emmett stepped forward. "It's not personal, Mrs. Houston. But Seamar City runs on rules. If we piss off Mr. Nichols, our businesses will suffer."Nods rippled through the group.Debra leaned back in her chair. "So, you think Juan's word carries more weight than mine?"The partners exchanged uneasy glances.Emmett scoffed, "Let's be real. Without Mr. Nichols, no one would've noticed you. Now you're remarried..."The room tensed at his brazenness. He continued, "Sure, Marion Houston's got your back. But a woman's still a woman. Without him, you'd drown here.""Oh?" Debra sneered. "Didn't expect you to think of me that way."She stood up and declared, "I'm the founder of the
Debra's car pulled up at the company entrance.Ben hurried over as soon as she stepped out. "Madam, you're finally here."Debra heard the commotion from down the hall. She frowned. "What's going on?""The shareholders and our partners are at each other's throats.""Over today's news?"Ben nodded. "The partners say the scandal's a public image disaster and demand answers. The shareholders are defending you. It's a warzone.""Let's settle this," Debra said, following him to the conference room.Inside, a shareholder jabbed a finger at a partner. "Mrs. Houston's integrity is rock-solid. You're buying into tabloid gossip? Wait till she gets here. She'll wipe the floor with you."The partner fired back, "We all know what kind of woman she is. A female CEO always seemed fishy. Now we see she climbed the ladder on her back."Debra strode in, silencing the room. Ben muttered, "They've been at this for half an hour."The partner who'd insulted her suddenly paled. "Mrs. Houston, we wer
Ivan instinctively tried to step back but stopped himself, remembering his mission to earn her trust.Debra noticed his subtle movement and raised an eyebrow. It looked like he was still reeling from the fear of getting hit.Marion came downstairs and approached them. Ivan quickly retreated."Saw that earlier," Marion murmured."Just messing with him," Debra said, chuckling. "He thought he could win me over by playing innocent. Scared stiff but trying not to show it. Hilarious.""Was it so fun?" Marion flicked her forehead. "Not worried I'd get jealous?""He's just a kid. Why would you?" She flashed her phone at him. "This is what you should worry about."Marion glanced at the viral news headline. His expression stayed neutral until he spotted Juan and Andrew's names."Give me a minute.""What're you doing?""Taking them down."He pulled out his phone, fingers flying across the screen.Debra bit back a laugh at his intensity. Just then, her phone rang. It was Ben."Let me
Barton pushed open the door and entered Andrew's bedroom. "Sir, Mrs. Houston has found all the ledgers.""I see." Andrew nodded.Barton hesitated. "Sir, the mastermind will act soon. Should we...""Life goes on. No need to borrow trouble," Andrew replied. "You can go now."After Barton left, the gauzy curtains fluttered in the breeze.Andrew gazed at the dark sky outside and whispered, "This time, I'm here with you."...The next morning, Debra grabbed her bag, ready to go to work.Ivan blocked her path. "Mrs. Houston, have you eaten breakfast?""Not hungry, thanks." She sidestepped him.He scrambled in front of her again. "Maybe a sandwich?"Debra forced a polite smile. "I'm really not hungry."Ivan blocked her a third time. "Coffee, maybe?"Debra dropped her bag. "Out with it. What's going on?"Ivan looked torn. Debra crossed her arms. "No? Then I'm leaving.""Wait." Ivan quickly took out his phone. "There's news. Today's headlines."Debra snatched the phone. The scre
Marion's gaze turned icy when he saw Drake blocking Debra's path.Drake glared. "I wasn't done talking.""'Finished now,' Marion said coolly.Drake turned to Debra. "I need to..."She waved dismissively. "I'm going to hit the sack. You should too."Debra walked off, and Marion closed the door for him.Drake lunged forward, but Kale held him back."Boss, your injuries..." "Screw the injuries. Let me at him."Marion opened the door, deadpan. "Don't like it closed? I'll leave it open.""Damn..." Kale clamped a hand over Drake's mouth.It was not wise to fight Marion there at the Potter Mansion. Besides, they hadn't gotten the Lowe Group back.Back in their room, Debra smirked at Marion. "Thought you weren't worried. Why eavesdrop?"Marion pulled her close. "How could I not worry?""Then why let me talk to him alone?" She tilted her head. "I know you're jealous."He pressed his lips together. "I don't want to restrain your freedom. It was just a talk. He couldn't steal
"What's the fuss?" Debra said.Drake hesitated. "I..." Outside, Erica and Randy shoved past Kale, ducking behind Marion.Kale initially tried to block them but retreated under Marion's icy glare.Inside, Drake noticed the door was slightly ajar. He scowled. "Hold on."Before Debra could react, he yanked the door open, exposing the three eavesdroppers.Debra raised an eyebrow. 'Really?'Erica cringed, looking at Randy. Randy pointed at Marion, and Marion blinked innocently.Debra smiled at them, slammed the door shut, and locked it.Randy gaped. "Did you hear that? She locked us out."Marion's jaw tightened."Let's go." Erica dragged Randy down the hall.Inside the room, Debra muttered, "We're alone now. Spit it out."Drake silently stared at her, and she shifted uncomfortably. "Do you have things to say or not?"Drake awkwardly cleared his throat. "Do you know Fermin likes you?"Debra barely flinched. "Yeah. Why?""You know?" Drake looked like his brain short-circuite
Everyone snapped to attention, flipping through the records. But the entries were pretty much the same—lists of expenses for rice, oil, flour, and other mundane supplies."Any maps or codes?" Randy scratched his head.Erica smacked the ledger. "Nothing. Just numbers and grocery lists."Debra traced a column of figures. "Right, numbers!"Erica was puzzled. "Numbers? How's that a treasure map?"Randy muttered, "Could it be that we've been thinking in the wrong direction? Maybe this isn't a treasure map after all?"Erica echoed, "Could it really be, like the elders said, just an account book that we've somehow turned into a myth?"As the group agonized, Drake finally snapped. "Debra, we need to talk.""Hm? About what?""Let's talk outside.""Can't say it here?""Outside." Drake stormed out. Debra sighed, turning to Marion. "Can I?"Erica and Randy glanced at him nervously.Marion nodded. "Go ahead."Erica and Randy gaped. 'No jealousy?' The second Debra left, Erica hiss