Rosa's comments dripped with sarcasm as she watched Lana's performance. "What's so impressive about this? It's only because your fundamentals are strong." However, everyone in the audience was well-versed in ballet. They could see that Lana's movements were far more intricate than a simple demonstration of solid basics.Lana's dedication and years of practice were apparent. It was evident in the refined results she showcased on stage.As the saying goes, "Success is 99 percent perspiration and 1 percent inspiration." Lana's performance perfectly illustrated the truth of these words.Shifting the spotlight to Rosa, someone in the group said, "Rosa, you're an outstanding ballet dancer, one of the best in Dawsbury City. How about treating us to a performance today?""Yeah, we've all been eager to see you in action. Could you make our day and dance for us?" another member added enthusiastically.Some of those who usually enjoyed buttering up Rosa found themselves coming to her defen
"Emilia, you're putting me in a tough spot here," Rosa said, her smile faint as she sipped her tea delicately."My father entrusted the Watson Club to me as a sort of social hub for everyone. But honestly, it's just a title. I don't have the power to make any major decisions," Emilia explained, her hesitation apparent.To any observer, it was clear that Emilia wanted no part in Rosa's messy affairs. She was keeping her distance from the situation.However, Rosa, being the President's beloved niece, couldn't grasp Emilia's detachment."Emilia, Lana's fate lies entirely in your hands. A simple nod from you is all I need. I assure you, I will take care of the rest," Rosa persisted, trying to sway Emilia's decision.Emilia's patience wore thin, her frustration evident in the furrow of her brow. Yet, Rosa seemed unaware that not everyone was captivated by her charm."Emilia, pretty please?" Rosa tried to persuade Emilia into compliance. She used the same tactics she employed with Pr
This marked the first time Rosa had experienced public humiliation in front of a crowd.She was on the verge of tears, but Lana showed no signs of relenting.As Lana had declared, today was all about teaching Rosa a lesson in respecting boundaries.Lana's lips curved into a mischievous grin, her unwavering gaze fixed on Rosa. "Huh? What did you say? I didn't quite catch that. Speak louder!"Rosa wanted to walk away, but in reality, she found herself without any alternative. She was undeniably branded as the "loser", and there seemed to be no escape from this harsh label.Amidst the surprised and mocking glances from the others, Rosa reluctantly summoned her courage. She called out to Lana, exclaiming, "Queen Lana!"Lana's face broke into a contented smile. "Now, that's more like it!"At that very moment, someone in the crowd had a sudden recollection and exclaimed, "Hey, Rosa had a Math Olympiad at the President's banquet, right?""Yeah, I heard she lost to someone!"Another p
"Grandma, it's my responsibility. I feel like I've fallen short as a mother. I'll talk to Rosa right away," Joyce uttered.Priscilla sighed disapprovingly and added, "You know you could've done better, right? Remember, if you can't handle it, someone else will."Joyce nodded, her humility evident. "I understand, Grandma. I promise to make amends."Priscilla, with her trademark blend of criticism and kindness, remarked, "I was just offering some advice. There's no need to get all worked up. By the way, didn't Rosa want to talk with you?"Joyce left the chapel, visibly upset, and made her way home."Rosa, could you please come out here for a moment?" Joyce exclaimed from outside Rosa's room.Startled, Rosa, who was holding a bag of potato chips, opened the door. She asked, "Mom, why are you shouting like that? You scared me, you know?"Looking stern, Joyce led Rosa into her room."I've told you this before, haven't I?" Joyce asserted with a serious tone. "When your great-grandma
Joyce was completely taken aback by Rosa's disrespectful words. She never expected her to say that. Acting on impulse, she covered Rosa's mouth and said, "What on earth are you talking about? How can you say something like that?"However, Rosa seemed unfazed. She managed to break free from Joyce's grasp and replied indifferently, "Why is it so hard to believe? I am Uncle Devon's niece, aren't I?"And hasn't Uncle Devon been childless all this time? Everything he has will eventually be mine."Joyce suddenly realized that her parenting might have fallen short. Rosa's behavior was likely a result of being overly pampered."But even if that's the case," Joyce advised, trying to guide Rosa, "you can't just say that. What if someone with bad intentions overhears? How would you handle that?"Rosa, however, remained indifferent. "If they hear it, whatever. I like watching people get all riled up and not being able to do a thing about it."Indeed, this child was spiraling out of control
Liam's sudden revelation took Lana completely by surprise, leaving her momentarily speechless.The two security guards, having seen the photo, exchanged knowing glances. They began to share their thoughts, both shaking their heads in disbelief."It's fascinating how wealth can transform people. They can be all affectionate one day and act like strangers the next.""Yeah, if my daughter ever pulled something like that, I'd have to step in and establish some rules."The spa's security guards consisted of retired veterans from the neighborhood.Lana had hand-picked them during a period of unemployment to form a security company responsible for safeguarding all her properties in Dawsbury City.These seasoned guards had encountered many situations over the years. They couldn't help but be disheartened by the younger generation's casual attitude toward relationships.People could warmly embrace someone one day, only to witness that same person act like a stranger the very next day.Y
Lincoln's sudden interruption made Liam lose interest instantly. He quickly straightened his clothes and reverted to his usual demeanor—the cold and aloof CEO he always projected.Lana shook her head in disapproval.Who would have imagined that the typically aloof and domineering CEO could display such eagerness and passion, just like any ordinary person in love?"Why are you looking at me like that?" Liam noticed Lana's gaze and approached her. He wrapped his arms around her from behind. "Do you want to continue?" he asked, a mischievous glint in his eyes.Lana pushed him away firmly. “You wish. My dignity was completely ruined by you just now.”Liam chuckled but remained silent, staying close to her."Oh, Liam, can't you stop clinging to me?"Liam stubbornly rested his head on her shoulder. "No, besides you, who else can I cling to?"An involuntary shiver ran down Lana's spine at his words.When this domineering CEO got affectionate, it was more overwhelming than dealing w
Lana and Liam left the restaurant together, but Liam suddenly stopped and turned to look at the restaurant's entrance. Liam had always been calm, but just a moment ago, Lana detected a trace of wariness in his gaze."What's wrong?" she asked. Liam shook his head. He turned and led her forward. "It's nothing."Lana assumed he just saw an acquaintance and didn't give it a second thought. Liam was still a bit wary, but he hoped he was just being paranoid.Emilia waited until Liam and Lana were out of sight before finally stepping out of the restaurant. Unknowingly, she had broken out in a cold sweat.Although she couldn't make out their faces clearly, the gaze of the man beside Lana was too piercing. Even from a distance, Emilia felt like she was being stared at by a predator.She couldn't imagine what it would be like if she was closer to him. She would probably be completely paralyzed with fear.She usually had a commanding presence. Even her family was apprehensive around h