"Where's the surveillance footage?""There aren't any. That area was a blind spot, not caught on camera.""Is she one of your fans?""I always keep my schedule private. Only a handful of people know where I'll be. I've never seen her before."Debra realized what was going on. Someone had set up Michael on purpose.Her mind raced, piecing together the timeline. When Michael was framed, Juan was still on the island, which meant he must have arranged things ahead of time. This so-called victim was likely someone from the Nichols Group, and the one behind it was probably Joe."So, they've been holding you this whole time?""Yes. I believe someone put in a word with the authorities. But I can't figure out who. In this city, no one usually dares to go up against the McKinney Group.""It's Juan."Michael was surprised, and Debra added, "It has to be connected to the Nichols Group.""Was he also behind the accident on the island?""No, that wasn't him. I'm sorry for putting you into
Debra's eyes narrowed. "You framed Michael, didn't you? Someone put you up to this."The woman's face paled. "What are you talking about? He hit me."Debra leaned back in her chair. "I've done my homework on you. You're not even one of Michael's fans. Why were you at the studio that day?"The woman hesitated for a moment, but then, as if reciting a well-rehearsed script, she snapped back, "I am a fan. I went there to get his autograph, and he attacked me. Just because he's famous doesn't mean he can treat people like dirt. Michael is nothing without our support."Debra drummed her fingers on the table. "Interesting. Few people knew Michael was leaving the studio early that day. How did you find out?""I heard about it in a fan group.""Are you in the group?""Of course.""Tell me the group ID. I'll check it."The woman froze, and Debra raised an eyebrow. "You see, the fans who have access to Michael's personal schedule are all verified superfans. If you're one of them, it won'
Juan's words annoyed Debra.Michael swiftly stepped in front of her and shot back, "It seems your taste has taken a bit of a nosedive lately."His gaze flicked to Shelia, his tone sharpening. "I wonder what tricks Miss Miles used this time. You seem to have an uncanny connection with the rich and powerful."Shelia's smile remained firmly in place. "Juan and I are soul mates, and we are engaged. Since you've been locked up at the police station, I presume you don't know about Ms. Frazier and Mr. Houston's engagement. But still, the way you two are pulling on each other is indecent."Michael's disdain for Shelia was written all over his face, but before he could form a retort, Ben got out of the car and jogged up to them.He said, "Mr. Austin, it's good to see you free at last. Mr. Houston is waiting in the car. We should get going."Shelia saw through the lie instantly, her voice dripping with mockery. "Oh, Ben, are you covering for Mr. Austin now? Mr. Houston just let his fiancée
Juan disapproved. "You're my fiancée. You don't have to bow to anyone. If Mr. Houston has a problem, we'll settle it on the business field tomorrow."They turned to leave, but their path was suddenly blocked by a group of men. They were Marion's trusted fighters, trained by the older generations of the Houston family.Marion pulled a lollipop from his pocket and popped it into his mouth. He had promised Debra to quit smoking, but the lack of something in his mouth was disturbing. The lollipop helped relieve his agitation.Juan warned, "We're outside the police station. Are you not afraid of the consequences?""Of course, I am. I'm a law-abiding citizen," Marion laughed, tuning to Ben. "Go shut the station doors. We wouldn't want to bother the officers inside.""Yes, Mr. Houston," Ben replied, quickly moving to comply.Debra stifled a laugh. Marion was such a scoundrel, always ready to push boundaries with his theatrical flair.Marion smiled, a challenging glint in his eyes as he
Juan, noticing Melody's distress, quickly stepped forward to support her."Grandma, what's wrong?" he asked, his voice laced with worry.Melody shook her head. "It's nothing."Juan turned to Debra and demanded, "What did you do to my grandma?""Nothing. Didn't you see it?" Debra said, retreating to Marion's side.Turning back to Melody, she asked, "Why did you act like you'd seen a ghost?"Melody averted her gaze and stammered, "I saw the news and thought..."Debra said smoothly, "That was all fake. Didn't I clarify everything already? Look, I'm standing right here, alive and well."Hearing her usual tone, Melody began to calm down. Since Debra was alive, Melody realized that she had been duped by Violet.The thought of her losing 30 million dollars made her heart ache. That money had come from selling off a portion of her jewelry collection.Melody's expression further convinced Debra that she was behind the kidnapping.Shelia stepped forward and hooked her arm around Melod
Shelia's senseless words shattered the thin veil of pretense and laid bare the truth that Melody had been exaggerating.Melody's expression darkened like a storm cloud gathering on the horizon.Debra, however, feigned confusion. "I was sincerely complimenting Melody. Why would you think I'm mocking her?""Because..." Shelia paused, realizing she'd put her foot in her mouth.She glanced nervously at Melody, whose face had turned thunderous. "Grandma, I didn't mean it.""Shut up!" Melody snapped, her eyes flashing with anger.She had personally trained Shelia, but the stupid just couldn't be smart.Shelia was still a fool at heart, incapable of discerning what should or shouldn't be said at a time like this.Debra's smile looked downright mocking to Melody. She could barely contain her fury, turning to Juan with a stern voice. "Juan. Let's go."Juan knew better than to defy Melody. After casting one last cold glance at Debra, he prepared to leave with Melody.However, they foun
The silence stretched out, each second ticking by like an eternity. Shelia's back ached from the prolonged bow, but she couldn't straighten up until Debra acknowledged her.Her resentment simmered, threatening to boil over."I'm not someone unreasonable," Debra finally spoke. "I just hope that you will pay more attention to your speech. Don't jump to conclusions and embarrass the Nichols family."She cast a meaningful glance at Melody, whose face was full of shame.By tomorrow morning, the three socialites present would undoubtedly spread tonight's events far and wide. The story of Shelia bowing to Debra would be all over town. When that happened, no one would be confused about who held more power in Seamar City.Frustrated, Melody huffed at Juan, "Take her home.""Yes, Grandma," Juan replied, walking over to Shelia and taking her hand.She started to tear up, and Juan's face softened with concern. But to Debra, the scene was nothing short of laughable.As the others began to d
Erica practically shoved Debra into the bathroom, her voice bubbling with excitement. "Wash your face. We need to get started."Debra protested, "Wait, what is all this for?"Erica's eyes sparkled. "I think Marion's going to propose."Debra blinked. "Where did you hear that?"Erica asked back, "Isn't he? We all thought so. Why else would he go to all this trouble and have Randy get a whole glam team for you?"Debra shook her head. "Marion already promised Caleb that both the proposal and engagement ceremony would be handled by Caleb. There is no way he'd let Marion interfere with it."Erica deflated like a balloon. "No proposal? Ugh, I got all worked up for nothing.""You already? We're running out of time," Randy urged from the living room.As soon as Debra came out, the stylists descended upon her, wielding makeup brushes and styling tools with practiced precision.When one of the designers brought out a custom-made dress, Erica said, "That's tailored to your measurements. I
Josh had booked the most expensive presidential suite.When Debra walked in with him, Josh went over to the table and asked, "Want a drink? I noticed you haven't really had much to drink tonight.""No thanks." Debra sat down on the couch and took off her other earring, placing it on the table. "I'll buy you for the night. You don't have to do anything. Just stay in this room and don't go out."Josh was puzzled. "What do you mean?""I mean, you can go to sleep now," Debra replied. "I don't like sleeping on the couch, so you'll be sleeping there tonight."Josh gaped. "You're spending all this money just for me to sleep on the couch?"He couldn't believe his ears. The rich ladies usually lined up to date him. Yet Debra wanted nothing from him."Not really," she replied, walking over to him. "Take off your shirt."Josh paused and complied.His figure was seductive. Debra smiled, clearly pleased with what she saw.Josh thought she was just playing hard to get, so he leaned in towa
It wasn't surprising that Debra took a liking to Josh.Josh followed her out of the club, his steps a little hesitant.Debra raised a hand, and for some reason, that simple gesture made Josh feel like a nervous rookie on his first day of work."What's wrong? Don't know how to offer your arm to a lady?" she said.Her voice had a teasing lilt to it, but she wasn't mad.Josh quickly held out his arm, and Debra smiled with satisfaction."Where do you wanna go?" he asked eagerly, unable to resist Debra.Her entire presence was magnetic. Different from the other female customers, she had a glow that made people stop and stare."Let's go to a hotel," she replied.Josh swallowed hard. For a split second, he even thought about paying for the room."I have a car. I'll drive you," he blurted."Let's just walk." Debra gestured ahead. "There is a five-star hotel straight down this road.""You wanna walk in those heels? Won't your feet hurt?" Josh asked with concern.He had always been
When they heard that one earring cost 100 thousand dollars, the six escorts began to grab the wine.Debra leaned back on the couch and scanned the room, enjoying herself.Sure enough, happiness could be bought with money. Being rich was indeed wonderful.Soon, her attention was drawn to a guy sitting in the corner.He was wearing a simple white hoodie, pale-skinned, and his features looked a bit youthful compared to the others.But his eyes were deep and captivating. His lips were pressed into a thin line, and he looked a bit tense.When he looked up and met Debra's eyes, he panicked and quickly lowered his head.Debra raised an eyebrow and beckoned to him. The young man hesitated, not fitting in with the atmosphere."What's your name?""Miss, my name is Troy Phelps.""Troy..."Debra repeated his name, clearly liking it, and her gaze shifted to the others at the table.They paused, sensing her interest in Troy.The one who had interacted with Debra earlier was not happy.
Any woman would be amazed to see these handsome guys.Debra stepped into the middle of the group. Michael stood off to the side, one hand in his pocket and the other making a phone gesture by his ear.She knew he was signaling for her to have fun and call him afterward.The club was loud and chaotic.One man, dressed in an open-collar black suit, approached her. His deep, captivating eyes sparkled with an intriguing desire. He raised his drink and gestured toward her with an inviting hand.Debra glanced at his drink and smiled. His wine was not up to standard.She made the usual nightclub gesture, ordering ten drinks and another most expensive bottle on the menu.Her move caught the attention of those around her. Before long, she became the center of attention.A group of exotic beauties wearing bikinis and holding lighted signs danced around the club. Then they brought the wine to Debra's booth.She grinned and raised her hand again.The waitresses were all stunned.Debra r
Michael was driving a convertible, and Debra sat in the passenger seat, watching the scenery outside.Even this late at night, the city was alive with bright lights, bustling streets, and neon flashing everywhere.The wind brushed against her face as Michael picked up speed.She closed her eyes, letting the rush of the ride wash over her. Compared to everything she had been through, this was nothing.After a while, she opened her eyes. "You've circled this area for half an hour. Think it's about time we head back?"Michael slowed down. "Feeling better?"Debra nodded. "A little. Probably not as fun as bungee jumping, though."She used to be terrified of heights. But after everything she had faced over the past two years, extreme sports seemed almost childish compared to real life-or-death situations.Michael chuckled, "I'll take you somewhere fun.""Sure," Debra nodded, "if it helps me unwind.""Buckle up." Michael stepped on the gas, and they sped through the city.Soon, the
Michael held an umbrella, shielding Debra from the wind and snow.Once they got in the car, Debra leaned against the window, not saying a word.Inside the house, Marion sat on the couch, silent.Randy and Erica had been trying to reach him nonstop, but he ignored every call.As evening approached, Erica booted open the door and stormed into the house."You jerk!" She swung a punch at his face. "Why weren't you answering our calls? What's going on? Randy and I came all the way from Seamar City. Don't tell us you don't know.""Erica, calm down," Randy tried to soothe her."Calm down?" Erica glared at him. "You knew about his condition, didn't you?""I thought he was fine," Randy muttered weakly.Erica turned back to Marion. "Although I'm not part of the Houston family, I am still your cousin. Why didn't you tell everyone? You could keep it from me, but why hide it from Debra? Weren't you aware of the consequences? Now that it's exposed, not only will the company have problems, b
Debra hesitated for a moment before answering the call.There was a moment of silence before Michael started, "Are you okay?""I'm fine," she replied, her voice hoarse.She had been lying in bed doing nothing all day."I'm outside," he said.Debra froze for a second before slowly getting out of bed and walking over to the window.She lifted a corner of the curtain and saw Michael standing outside.He was wearing a white shirt, neat and clean. Probably to avoid being recognized, he had put on a mask."If you don't want to stay here, I'll take you away," he added."Okay," Debra agreed without hesitation.She hung up the phone, but her eyes dimmed.Outside, Marion saw a glimmer of hope when he heard the door opening."Debra, please listen to me...""Mr. Houston, please don't block the way."Marion's smile froze on his face. Debra had never been so different to him like that."What did you call me?""Mr. Houston. I told you before. I trust you, but if you ever deceive me, I
"Do you want a brother or a sister?" Marian Eaton asked.Fermin placed his hand on her belly and thought for a moment. "A sister."Marian laughed, "Smart boy, knowing it's a girl before she's even born."Bert walked over, concerned about her health.Marian asked, "What should we name your sister?""Liza." Fermin crouched down, pressing his ear to Marian's belly.He closed his eyes and whispered, "She's my long-awaited little sister."His thoughts drifted back to the present.Fermin remembered the warmth of that dream, but he also knew how cruel reality was.He hadn't been lost in that dream because there were more important things to take care of.He smiled at the sleeping Liza, carefully removed the face mask, and tossed it into the trash.Before leaving, he left the lamp on. Liza couldn't sleep well in complete darkness.Outside the room, his smile faded, replaced by his usual coldness.The maid stood nervously by the door."Keep an eye on Liza. Don't let her run off."
Fermin ruffled her hair and spoke softly. "You've grown up."Liza tilted her head and looked at him. "Stop fighting with Dad. Can't we just be together as a family, like we used to?""Of course." Fermin nodded. "Once I've handled these things, we'll all be back together and live happily as a family."Liza lowered her eyes. "Debra is a friend I treasure, and you're my brother. You're both smarter than me. If you two could work together, there's nothing you can't handle. We're already so rich; there's no need to get involved with the..."Fermin reached out and covered her mouth. "I think I've told you before. You're not allowed to say that word."Liza blinked, silently agreeing not to speak any further.Fermin withdrew his hand. "I have my path to follow, and you have yours. Everyone has a role in this world and a choice to make. I just want you to live happily. No matter how spoiled or bratty you get, no one will dare say anything. Even if you make the worst mistake, I'll make it