Ivanka gave a faint smile. “Mr. Barkworth, from the way you acted, I’d have thought you couldn’t get over me, and that you have fallen for me. This does not look good on you.”Michael’s expression instantly turned grim. He looked at Ivanka icily. “Call off your collaboration with Jonah and work with me. I won’t treat you like how I treated you in the past.”“No, sorry. You snatched the previous project from Jonah a while ago, so I owed him once. Besides, I…”As she said this, she paused and kept the rest of her sentence to herself.She had meant to say that she would never work with Michael for the rest of her life.But if she said this aloud, it would only anger him and do her no good.She struggled with all her might.Michael gritted his teeth and released her. “Get lost! Ivanka Lane, get out and never think of setting foot in this place again. Don’t ask for my help ever again!”Ivanka forced another smile. “Don’t you worry. I won’t bother you from now on.”Michael was speec
The doorbell dinged.Sandy opened the door for Ivanka.Sandy smiled and said, “Are you here for me? I came over for dinner just now.”Before Ivanka replied, Thomas’ laughter rang out from behind Sandy. “Hahaha, move aside, kiddo. Let Iv in.”Sandy stepped aside with a chuckle. Ivanka closed the door, changed into slippers, and entered the living room.“Uncle Thomas, sorry for bothering you at this hour.”“Don’t be sorry, kiddo. You can come to me anytime. It’s never too late or too early.”Thomas genuinely admired Ivanka’s character and capability.If she visited, she must have something important to tell him, or else she would not have come over so late at night.Ivanka smiled. “As a matter of fact, I want to collaborate with Sadler’s Group soon, and I still need your help. We will hold a meeting tomorrow.”Thomas was a little confused. “What meeting? Let’s discuss it in my study.”With that, Thomas led Ivanka into the study. Sandy stayed outside because they would be talki
Once they entered Ivanka’s house, Sandy could not help asking, “Iv, are you really prepared? Are you going to take them down once and for all?”“I haven’t come to that point. Don’t worry about me.”There was a hint of doubt and hesitation in Sandy’s eyes. But she eventually signed. “Knowing that my uncle is helping you, I can rest assured. Regardless, you have to be careful. The Lanes are deplorable. They even hired someone to drive a car into you. I’m genuinely concerned…” She sighed again.After all, Ivanka had been targeted, and it wasn’t the first or second time this happened. She was indeed in danger.Ivanka nodded. “Don’t worry.”That was all she said about this. The two of them chatted for a while before washing up and heading to bed.The next day, after Ivanka woke up, she made breakfast. Sandy was still concerned. “Iv, are you absolutely ready?”Even though she still had no idea what Ivanka was up to, she could sense that it would be risky. Why else would Ivanka and Unc
Many people gave Thomas puzzled looks. He would not mention this person without a reason; there must be some business collaboration or potential partnership at play.Thomas had always been a sensible man. He would not exaggerate or speak about things unlikely to happen.As business-minded individuals, they naturally prioritized profit. When Thomas mentioned it, some began to anticipate potential outcomes. However, they did not want to raise their hopes too high.After all, everyone knew who Papaver was. Many have tried to curry favor with her but failed. Even Barkworth’s Group and Sadler’s Group were interested in cooperation, but there was no news about it, let alone collaborative products being developed. As for smaller companies, they could only dream about collaborating with Papaver.Someone in the meeting could not help but sigh inwardly and said helplessly, “Papaver is completely out of our league, Mr. Thomas. Why did you suddenly bring her up?” What he actually meant was t
As they pondered this, someone could not help but ask aloud, “Is Ms. Ivanka involved in this collaboration?”Otherwise, why would she be here?Jillian also realized this and immediately looked at Ivanka.Chiara was seated beside Ivanka. When she heard this, jealousy and anger brewed in her eyes as she looked at Ivanka. She was about to lose her composure.Why? Why did this have to involve Ivanka?!Ivanka’s presence in this meeting must be connected to what Thomas mentioned!That damn b*tch!! Ivanka calmly replied, “That’s correct. I’m part of this.”Thomas looked at everyone and smiled, “Everyone, let’s calm down.”One of Fernando’s supporters could no longer stand it and said, “Calm down? Papaver is someone beyond our reach, okay?! Both Michael and Jonah have tried to meet Papaver in person but have not succeeded. We still don’t know who she really is. She’s never out in public. We don’t even know if she’s a man or a woman. Did Ms. Ivanka really contact her? And don’t even t
What nonsense was Thomas spouting?!At that moment, everyone speechlessly stared at Thomas.Theodore, on the other hand, smiled and said, “What do you mean by that, Mr. Thomas?”Thomas chuckled. “You’ve been staying with the Lane family for years. You and Mr. Fernando have been under the same roof. Ivanka practically grew up right under your nose. Yet, you know nothing about this important matter?”Chiara was puzzled.Something was definitely not right! What was Thomas talking about? Why did she keep getting even more uneasy?!Theodore felt the same way. He looked at Thomas and said in confusion, “What do you mean? I’m confused right now.”“Hahaha...” Thomas was in a good mood. It seemed like what he said earlier was just a joke. While everyone was still baffled, he chuckled and said, “Initially, everyone thought Ivanka was just an ordinary girl. But now, with her true identity being revealed bit by bit, aren’t you shocked, Mr. Lane?”Was he shocked?!He was so angry that he w
In an instant, everyone looked at Ivanka and waited for her response.Thomas smiled silently.Ivanka remained calm and gave a short and sweet reply. “Yes, I am.”The room fell silent.She was Papaver?!How could this be possible?!Chiara widened her eyes, on the verge of losing her composure.That stupid b*tch! There was no way she was Papaver!She was going insane.Theodore was also dumbfounded. He could not believe Ivanka was Papaver.No, this could not be true. It must be a scheme concocted by Ivanka and Thomas!With that in mind, he immediately glanced at one of his trusted shareholders, Henry Kennedy. Henry instantly understood what Theodore was conveying.He adjusted his middle-parted hair, looked at Ivanka, and said, “Ms. Ivanka, you are a lawyer yourself. You must know that lying and deception come with consequences, especially when it involves such a significant collaboration for our company. Impersonation is not a good thing.”Ivanka looked at him calmly. “You don
Thomas then spoke as if making an announcement, “I wouldn’t bring this up today if I were trying to fool anyone or pull a gimmick. We’re all in this together, working for mutual benefit. There’s no need for discord. It’s an honor to collaborate with Papaver. Since Iv is Papaver, we should be even happier because she’s one of us.” He spoke calmly, but his words carried a deeper meaning.He subtly warned others not to harbor malicious doubts or suspicions to prevent them from overthinking the situation. He wanted to ensure that they would accept the situation as it was.However, everyone was still in disbelief.How could Ivanka be Papaver?How could someone so young know so much?Was she even human?The crowd looked at Ivanka as if she were a monster, though Ivanka seemed unfazed. Using this identity to collaborate with other companies was inevitable.Ivanka had more important things to do that day.These were just the beginning. Once this prelude passed, it would mark a new be
Ivanka nodded. What Rosie said was true. Rosie continued, “If Michael were the stranger, why are you resisting him and feeling helpless?” Ivanka was stunned. It was a fact. If a stranger courted her relentlessly, Ivanka would only find them annoying. But she would not resist them. Only she knew the reason she refused to accept them. But when it came to Michael, she treated him differently. From the bottom of her heart, she refused to give him a fair chance to court her. Was it because she was worried that her heart would move for him? Ivanka was startled by the thought. She shook her head as if trying to get that ridiculous thought out. When Rosie saw this, she chuckled. Ivanka was a smart woman. It was sufficient to say all that; too much would be meaningless. Rosie looked up at the moon. She could not help but sigh. “Tonight’s a beautiful moon night. Unfortunately, it’s time for me to go to bed.” After Rosie finished her sentence, she headed to her room. Ivanka
On the other hand, Ivanka had no idea her best friend had “betrayed” her. She helped Rosie into the bedroom. When they passed the garden, Rosie suggested walking inside it. Ivanka was too embarrassed to reject her. So, they came to the garden. The gardeners attended and trimmed the garden daily. It was naturally a sight to behold. There were many rare plants in the garden. Of course, there were also some rare herbal plants in the garden. Ivanka had planted them, and the herbal plants were flourishing. There was a botanical garden encircled within the garden. It contained the herbal plants used to nourish Rosie’s health. While they were walking along the path, the fragrance of flowers, the earthy smell of the soil, and the faint aroma of the herbal plants entered their nostrils. The fragrance lifted their spirits. On top of that, the fragrance could refresh one’s mind. Rosie felt more refreshed as she walked down the path in the garden. She grabbed Ivanka and shared
Within the blink of an eye, it was already 12 a.m.. Ivanka noticed that Rosie had been yawning but still refused to go to bed. Ivanka knew why. While they were chatting, Ivanka occasionally turned to Rosie. While Rosie was wiping off her basal tears, Ivanka and Michael exchanged glances. Ivanka sat beside Rosie and patted her hands gently. Rosie looked more alert, but her eyes were still a little blurry and appeared bloodshot. She had dark rings beneath her eyes. In spite of her exquisite makeup, her dark eye rings were still visible. Of course, it was only visible when Ivanka looked closer at her. Seeing this, Ivanka’s heart ached more for Rosie. Ivanka believed Rosie must have stayed up late or had insomnia when she and Michael went missing. Rosie wanted to receive first-hand information about the missing duo, but she was also worried that she would not be able to face reality. After struggling and battling with her inner conflicts for a month, Rosie’s health de
Speaking of which, this was Michael’s first time seeing Ivanka looking this helpless, and he found this a novelty. Whenever Rosie said things like that, Ivanka usually looked expressionless. She either looked calm, or she pretended to be deaf. Based on her unease and embarrassed look, did that mean her heart began to move for Michael? With that thought in his mind, Michael was eager to find out the answer. At that moment, they heard Candice’s voice. “Why are you staying outside? Did I come at a bad time? I thought I could have dinner immediately after I returned from work.” Ivanka and her group turned around and saw Candice standing not far away from them. She smiled as she looked at them. When Candice noticed Rosie’s teary eyes, she looked surprised and approached them. “Grandma has a sharp tongue, but she’s soft-hearted. She said the two of you were so cruel that you left her and a whole mess behind. She said she would teach you a lesson when you return.” While speaki
Everything had been fine just a moment ago.Why had she suddenly started to distance herself from him?It was probably true that a woman’s mind was unpredictable. Even a strong woman was no exception.Soon, they arrived at the Barkworth family’s mansion.Michael wanted to get out first and open the door for Ivanka, but she stopped him by tapping her soft hand on his shoulder.He looked down at her hand and then looked at her.“Don’t get out yet. I’ll grab a coat for you from inside and come back.”Michael wanted to refuse, but Ivanka had already exited the car.He watched her walk away. He then leaned back against the seat and felt a wave of relaxation.It felt as though he had finally found someone who had his back.He could not help but find it funny when he thought about it. He glanced at the spot where Ivanka had touched his hand and chuckled quietly.In the front seat, the driver felt so awkward about what he had just witnessed that he wished he could hide behind the st
The motorcycle approached them with no sign of slowing down.Michael’s expression turned grim. He quickly pulled Ivanka to the side and turned to shield her with his back.Ivanka felt a sudden spin. By the time she regained her balance, she found herself in Michael’s arms.His embrace was warm and strong. She could smell his familiar scent.It felt as if everything around them had slowed down.Then she heard the sound of water splashing on Michael. She pulled away from his embrace.Michael felt his arm grow light and stared at the empty space where she had been. He could still feel her warmth lingering.He shifted his gaze to Ivanka.Before she could speak, he quickly asked, “Are you okay? Did you get splashed?”She blinked and shook her head.“I’m fine. What about you?”He shook his head, but she did not buy it. She was sure the sound of the water splashing had been loud. There was no way he was not wet.Without hesitation, she grabbed his arm and turned him around.His b
Both Ivanka and Michael walked side by side as they maintained just the right distance between them. They looked great together, and their presence naturally attracted many gazes.It was worth mentioning that it was difficult to tell whether Michael did this on purpose or if it was just a coincidence.Both of them wore black trench coats that day. The styles were quite similar. This made them look even more like a couple in matching outfits.Ivanka’s wavy hair and red lips were striking. The beauty mark by her eye was the perfect finishing touch, which made her look stunning.Despite her beauty, Michael standing beside her did not go unnoticed either. He seemed to be a perfect complement to her.They looked like a perfect match.Ivanka noticed it but said nothing.Michael broke the silence and asked about Ferris and Mandy.“What are you going to do about Ferris and Mandy?”Ivanka did not answer right away.Michael continued, “Just having them arrested seems like getting off t
Mandy was rushed to the hospital.She fainted, but Ferris was not as fortunate.It seemed that he could not accept the fact that he had kicked his own child. He kept shaking his head and muttering, “This can’t be. How could this happen?”He looked like he was losing it.However, the law would not overlook his actions just because of his mental state.Ivanka had seen enough of their mess and was no longer interested in watching them tear each other apart. She asked the police to explain why they were there.“Mr. Clark, Ms. Ivanka has filed a report requesting a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding her fall into the water. Following our preliminary inquiry, both you and Ms. Mandy are now considered suspects. We are required to take you both in for further questioning.”Ferris did not respond. He was still unable to process what had just happened.The police followed protocol and arrested him.Ferris was led away with his hands cuffed. He was completely dazed.N
Still, Ferris kept quiet. However, the others in the room did not.A portly shareholder stood up, smacked his lips, and forced a flattering smile. “Isn’t it obvious? Ferris wants to take your place, Ms. Ivanka. Everyone can see it. He’s nothing but a complete traitor!”Once he spoke up, the rest quickly chimed in.“Yeah, he’s a traitor!”Ferris looked around the room. He already knew these people were untrustworthy, but he had not expected them to turn on him so easily.Ivanka, on the other hand, did not seem surprised.She had not taken any action on Ferris and Mandy because she wanted to watch the chaos unfold. These shareholders had sided with Ferris when she was gone, and they switched back just as quickly when she returned.Ferris was no fool. He knew that too. But the sense of isolation he felt at that moment drove him into despair.Still, he was not one to back down easily.He spat in the portly shareholder’s face.“And who the hell are you?” Ferris sneered. “You were