Melody watched as Sophie packed her bags, a cold smile playing on her lips.'Debra, you might have Marion's protection in Seamar City, but overseas, your luck might just run out,' she thought.In Marion's house overseas, Debra looked at the array of jewelry, designer gowns, and limited-edition bags that the maid had brought in.She glanced at the three wealthy ladies sitting across from her on the sofa and smiled. "These gifts look exquisite and quite valuable. It's clear that a lot of thought went into them."Those ladies looked flattered and tried to sound humble."Mrs. Houston, your figure is the best among all the socialites I've seen. Even our top models can't compare. We just finished a top-tier luxury gown, and I thought it would be perfect for you. Only someone with your figure can do justice to this dress.""My family is in the jewelry business. We've been fortunate to have Mr. Houston's support over the years, so we wanted to give you our store's most prized possession.
The three ladies nodded, and Debra smiled as things were getting interesting."What are you guys talking about?" Marion asked, walking into the room.He was casually dressed in a white shirt and no tie, with several elegant shopping bags hanging from his arm.The three ladies' eyes lit up. Not only was Marion powerful and wealthy, but he was also devastatingly handsome. With a husband like him, who would ever want to leave the house?"We didn't expect to see you here during the day, Mr. Houston," one of the ladies said. "We would have brought an extra gift.""Mr. Houston, you're so devoted to Mrs. Houston," another chimed in. "You spend all your time with her, unlike my husband."The ladies blushed slightly, their intentions clear to Debra. Despite their age, they were still attractive and had their eyes on Marion.Before Debra could respond, Marion spoke up. "Debra is new to the area, and she's not familiar with the surroundings yet. Feel free to chat with her, but please don't
Debra pondered for a moment. "No wonder. Even though the Nichols family is the top dog in Seamar City, Melody doesn't hold any real power in the Nichols Group. Why would those socialites be clamoring to host an evening gala for her? It must be because of her connection to the Eaton family."If the banquet was held at the Eaton family's residence, it indicated that Bert Eaton and Melody were quite close when they were young.Marion opened another package of sweets for Debra and said, "I'll accompany you tonight.""No need," Debra replied. "It's a ladies' gala. Besides, Melody traveled all the way here. If I'm not mistaken, either Juan is here, or Melody came all the way here to deal with me."Melody might appear kind, but she was quite petty. Their grudge ran too deep, and Melody wouldn't let her off easily."You're spot on," Marion said. "Juan has been missing from Seamar City lately. Melody probably thinks he is here for you."Debra sensed his jealousy and pecked him on the chee
The snide remarks of the socialites reached Debra's ears, but she didn't ignore them. Instead, she turned to face the gossiping women, who immediately plastered on smiles.Debra returned their smiles, but her eyes held a cold glint. Those ladies were daunted and quickly dispersed, realizing that she was not someone to be trifled with.As soon as Debra entered the banquet hall, she noticed Debra noticed a figure surrounded by a group of admiring ladies. It was none other than Melody dressed in elegant attire and adorned with precious jewels.Debra arched her eyebrow, having a certain guess in her mind.Melody's valuable jewelry was mostly in her possession. These pieces, which appeared to have a vintage feel, were likely stored with an overseas insurance company.It seemed Melody had indeed come to meet her old flame, for she wore jewelry that she usually wouldn't have even worn at home.Melody also noticed Debra. Her expression soured, and she remarked, "I don't recall inviting M
Debra's words were laced with insinuation, implying that Melody's trip there was driven by some late-life romantic whim.Melody, who valued her reputation above all else, turned livid. "Of course, I'm going back. If it weren't for some business I had to attend to, I wouldn't have come at all.""Mrs. Nichols Sr., take it easy. I didn't say anything out of line," Debra said, leaning in closer to Melody. "Don't forget, I have evidence of you hiring someone to kill me. If you don't want any trouble, you'd better not cross me. Otherwise, you'll spend the rest of your life behind bars."Melody's anger boiled over at Debra's threat. She remembered all too well how Debra had used this very threat to force Juan to hand over the Nichols Group.Although the company hadn't fallen into Debra's hands yet, there was no telling if Juan might do so in the future.Melody looked at Debra's smiling face, her own smile strained. "Since you're new here too, feel free to look around. I'm a bit tired and
"But..." The maid tried to stop her, but Melody had already stood up and was heading towards the door.In Seamar City, she was used to being respected as an elder. All the noblewomen and socialites treated her with deference.Melody firmly believed Bert's favor for Liza had something to do with her.She felt justified in her actions. As she descended the stairs, she saw Liza standing in the middle of the grand hall.The butler beside her advised, "Miss, she's really not here. You should go back. If your father finds out you came here to cause trouble, he won't be happy.""Nonsense. Everyone in the local community knows that today is the welcoming banquet my father is hosting for that old hag. Why was I kept in the dark? Who does she think she is? She's old and washed up, yet she still has the nerve to come here and seduce my father," Liza huffed, aware of the old rumors.Debra, not wanting to be noticed by Liza, stood in a less conspicuous corner. She preferred to watch the drama
"No mercy?" Liza scoffed, striding up to Melody and slapping her across the face.Melody was stunned, and she continued, "This is our territory, and everything my father owns is mine. How dare an old hag like you challenge me? Do you really think my father cares about you? Let me tell you, I am his favorite daughter, and my mother is the woman he loves most. He would never have his eyes on you."The room fell silent, not because of Liza's audacity but because of Bert's arrival.He emerged from the elevator, his presence commanding despite his nearly seventy years. His hair was dyed, and he stood tall and straight, hinting at the handsome man he must have been in his youth.Debra watched the scene unfold with interest. Liza had finally managed to draw out Bert, who rarely made public appearances except to clean up messes for her."What's going on here?" Bert demanded, his voice stern yet tinged with indulgence.Debra observed from the corner, noting how much Bert doted on Liza. De
Debra quickly formulated a plan and walked toward the champagne tower that Liza had knocked over earlier.When no one was looking, she bent down and used a shard of the broken glass to lightly cut her ankle."Ouch!" she grunted, drawing the attention of many guests.Liza recognized the voice and turned to see Debra. Her eyes narrowed as she remembered how Debra had wronged Cathryn.She marched over, ready to give Debra a piece of her mind. But just as she was about to strike, Bert shouted, "Liza, stop!"Liza stomped her foot in frustration. "Dad. This woman stole Marion and made Cathryn a laughing stock. Why won't you let me hit her?""Enough," Bert said sternly. "Today has been chaotic enough, and your spoiled behavior needs to change. She is our guest, and she's injured because of your antics. If you hit her, people will say our family has no manners."With that, he approached Debra. She was taken aback, wondering what this notorious old fox was up to.Under the watchful eyes
Erica rushed forward and said, "Barton, you're here just in time. I need to ask you something."Barton cut her off. "Mr. Andrew Potter's condition has suddenly worsened. It's very serious right now. Please come back with me immediately.""What?" Debra exclaimed. "He was fine yesterday."An image of the previous day suddenly popped into her mind. Jordan had gone into Andrew's room right after she left."Do you know about this?" Debra asked. "Jordan is the new president of the Lowe Group?"Barton, as Andrew's trusted aide, was supposed to know if this was part of Andrew's plan."What?" Barton was puzzled. "Mr. Jordan Potter?"Debra decided to go upstairs to confront Jordan. Erica quickly reached out to stop her."Where are you going? Didn't you just say we can't go up there earlier?""I have to go and ask him. What is he doing? Betraying the family?""Betrayal it is," Liza chimed in. "I'm going with you."She grabbed Debra's arm and rushed up the stairs.The guards immediatel
"What's going on?"Liza looked around, and her gaze landed on a huge pendulum clock on the wall.It gave a low, echoing chime. Debra looked over and saw it struck eight at night.A beam of light shone down onto a sofa on the second floor. Sitting on it was a masked man.Debra stared at him and had an oddly familiar feeling.Erica had the same feeling. "This guy...""Welcome to the party. I am the Lowe Group's new president."The voice was so familiar that both Debra and Erica froze in shock.Liza patted them on the shoulder. "Is that Andrew's brother? Did I hear wrong?"She didn't know what was going on, but the new president turned out to be Jordan.Just a few days ago, when they saw the news, he hadn't said anything.On the second floor, Jordan removed his mask, revealing a frosty face. Everyone stared at him in surprise because Jordan had disappeared from Seamar City for an entire year.He used to be reckless and lazy. Somehow, he became the new president of the Lowe G
"What is this? Do I have to wear this ugly thing to attend your party?" Liza grumbled, tossing the mask back with disdain. "I spent two hours on my makeup. If I wear this, all that effort will go to waste. No way I'm wearing it."The security guard replied politely, "I'm sorry, but rules are rules. Without the mask, you can't go in.""I've never heard of such a ridiculous rule," Liza huffed, ready to leave.Debra grabbed her hand. "Don't you want to have fun anymore?""I..." Liza hesitated.Debra leaned in and whispered, "The new president of the Lowe Group is trying to impress people. Just put on the mask and take it off once you're inside. What are they gonna do? Can they just throw you out?""Sounds like a plan." Liza nodded. "Even Drake didn't dare mess with me. Why should I care about them?"She picked up the mask again and put it on.Erica nudged Debra. "I guess you're going to be a pro at handling kids."Debra pressed a finger to her lips.The three of them entered the
Faced with the same question, Debra explained again, "Got it from a fall when I was a kid.""Fell?" Erica muttered, skeptical. "It doesn't look so."She suddenly remembered something major from back in the day. The major families all sent their representatives over.There had been a little girl who was injured on her back and rushed to the hospital.Erica remembered it well because Andrew had been holding that girl."What's wrong?" Debra turned and saw Erica spacing out.Erica came to her senses. "Ah... Nothing. It doesn't look like a fall.""You're talking like Liza." Debra twirled in front of the mirror and said, "What do you think? Should I change into something else? It doesn't look so good if it reveals the scar.""Why not wear this one instead?" Liza came out, holding an azure gown. "It's pretty and not too flashy."Debra took it and nodded with satisfaction. "This one it is."Liza grabbed Erica and pulled her toward the changing room. "I picked one for you too. Let's g
At her call, ten bodyguards walked into the room.Debra explained, "For safety's sake, these are our bodyguards for the day. Get familiar with them so there are no misunderstandings later."Liza was unimpressed. "Are ten of them enough? I usually bring 20."Erica snorted, "You want 20. Ask your daddy. Too many people will be arrestive.""What? Are you judging me?" Liza fumed."I am. I haven't even slapped you yet," Erica countered, rolling up her sleeves.Debra quickly stepped in. "Alright, it's about time. Let's go."She grabbed Erica's arm and headed toward the door. Liza followed them reluctantly.The whole morning was spent at a salon. Debra and Erica kept yawning, but Liza was full of energy."Is she really a spoiled lady?" Erica muttered, trailing behind Liza. "My barn needs a workhorse like her."Finally, they arrived at the store Liza had mentioned. Debra and Erica were grateful for a short break.Liza pulled Debra over. "Look at all these beautiful dresses. Can't wa
The next morning, Debra was shaken awake by Liza."Debra, get up," Liza urged, moving to pull off the blankets.Debra had stayed up all night going through the materials that Andrew gave her.She was still exhausted and buried her head under the covers."It's still early. What do you want?""Get up. Let's go pick a dress. I heard there's a great store."Debra couldn't focus, and she didn't want to hear any of it. All she wanted to do was sleep."Marion, get her out of here," she yelled.Marion knocked and came in. "Please leave."He had just finished preparing breakfast for Debra.Liza was upset. "I asked my dad to help you guys. And this is how you repay me? Fine, I'll go by myself tonight."With that, she headed toward the door.Debra sighed and got up. "Alright, I'll go with you. Is that okay?""That's more like it," Liza smiled. "I'll wait for you outside. Hurry up."She hummed a tune and skipped out of the room.Debra rubbed her temples. Marion said, "If you don't w
Barton held the medicine in front of Andrew and pleaded, "Sir, please take your medicine, alright? Take it, get some rest, and by tomorrow, you'll feel better. Mrs. Houston will still be here."Andrew relaxed a little. It was true.Debra was alive. She was beautiful, elegant, and clever, just as he had always imagined. She had gotten married and was living a happy life."Being my wife is dangerous," he murmured to himself. "The life she has now is the best path I could have given her."He swallowed the pills and leaned back against the bed. Sleep eluded him, but his memories didn't.Once again, he was transported back 16 years.Jordan and the six-year-old Debra were kidnapped. His parents rushed to save Jordan but were ambushed. Both lost their lives.Andrew did his best to rescue Debra, but his legs were injured during the process.He cradled the unconscious, injured Debra in his arms, crawling desperately away from the explosions. For the first time, he understood what despai
"Help me!"A little girl's desperate cries echoed in Andrew's mind, and he woke up from a dream.The room was pitch black and eerily silent. As if drained, he weakly leaned against the head of the bed. Fragments of a memory flickered in his mind like a haunting replay."Hold my hand.""Hug me."A sweet, childlike voice seemed to call out to him again, as if it had traveled through time to reach him. He opened his eyes and was pulled into a memory from many years ago.The summer air carried the fresh scent of grass. In the courtyard, koi fish chased one another in the pond. Sunlight bathed the entire yard, its warmth embracing everything in its reach.He was just an 11-year-old boy then. In front of him stood a little girl with a chubby face. Her little hands tugged at his sleeve.Andrew bent down, as if this moment had been predestined, and smiled at her. "What now?""Swing-swing," replied the girl, pointing at a swing set not far away."It's a swing.""Swing-swing.""Alrig
Standing outside was Jordan.He asked bluntly, "What are you doing here?""I came to visit Andrew," Debra replied with a frown, sensing hostility. "Anything wrong with that?"Jordan pressed his lips together. "How is he?""Not so good. He's been coughing," Debra replied, shaking her head. "I'll leave now."Barton spoke up. "Mrs. Houston, you left something behind.""Oh right, the report Ben gave me," Debra responded, walking back to the desk to grab the papers.Once she left, Jordan went into the room and closed the door behind him.Debra paused, wondering why Andrew asked her to hide his fake illness from Jordan."Hey."Suddenly, a voice startled Debra. She turned around and saw Liza standing behind her.Liza looked puzzled. "What are you staring at so intently?"Debra composed herself and asked, "What's up?""Nothing, just bored. I haven't seen you around lately," Liza pouted. "Didn't you guys get into some kind of trouble? I called my dad. Don't worry. Within three days