Clara's POVWhen Nathan left for his morning meetings, I began my investigation.Five years of memories from my previous life had taught me one crucial lesson: information was power. And in the Chen family's world, power was everything.I accessed Nathan's private server – a risk, but one carefully calculated. My fingers moved with practiced precision, decrypting files that most would consider impenetrable. Years of watching Nathan had taught me his encryption patterns.Sophie's neural regeneration research files caught my attention. The breakthrough wasn't just medical—it was revolutionary. Victor Volkov's persistent interest wasn't academic—it was strategic.A notification pinged. An encrypted message from an unknown source."You're not who you claim to be."My heart raced. Someone was watching. Tracking. But who?I'd spent my entire reincarnated life carefully constructing my identity as Clara Lin. Each move calculated, each relationship strategically chosen. Nathan Chen wasn't jus
Clara's POVThe elevator doors opened to the 50th floor of Reid Enterprises, and I smoothed down my cream silk blouse, clutching the handmade bento box closer. Three years of marriage, and my heart still skipped whenever I was about to see Alexander. The thought made me smile despite myself."You're such a fool, Clara," I whispered to myself, though my lips curved into a hopeful smile.The executive floor was oddly quiet today. Jessica's desk—my best friend and Alexander's secretary—sat empty. Strange. She was always here, ready with a warm hug and friendly gossip about the office drama. In three years, I'd never seen her station unmanned during business hours.My Louboutin heels clicked against the marble floor as I made my way down the corridor. The sound echoed in the unusually silent space, making me feel like an intruder rather than the CEO's wife.As I approached Alexander's office, voices drifted through the heavy mahogany door. I reached for the handle, then froze at Henderson
Clara's POVCafé Laurent was exactly as I remembered it—elegant, discreet, and far from Alexander's usual haunts. I chose a corner table, my back to the wall, and waited. The gentle jazz music couldn't calm my racing heart.Nathan Chen walked in exactly on time, commanding attention without trying. Six-foot-three of lean muscle in a perfectly tailored charcoal suit, with sharp features that belonged on a classical statue. In my past life, I'd only seen him once, at my engagement party. Now, I noticed details I'd missed before—the calculating intelligence in his dark eyes, the slight cruel twist to his sensual mouth."Miss Lin." He slid into the seat across from me, studying my face with an intensity that made my skin tingle. "I must admit, I'm surprised you agreed to meet."I smiled, letting my mask slip just enough to intrigue him. "Tell me, Mr. Chen, do you believe in second chances?""That depends on what's at stake." His voice was deep, with a hint of something dangerous underneat
Nathan's POVI watched Clara Lin walk away from the chaos of her almost-wedding, her white dress a beacon in the afternoon sun. She was nothing like I'd expected. When my intelligence team had first flagged her engagement to Reid, I'd dismissed her as another social climber. Now, seeing her orchestrate Reid's downfall with such precision, I felt something I hadn't experienced in years—genuine interest."Mr. Chen!" Reid's voice cut through my thoughts. "Whatever she told you, it's lies!"I turned to face him, enjoying the way his perfectly controlled facade was cracking. "The SEC seems to disagree. As do the federal agents currently raiding your offices.""You bastard," he snarled, grabbing my lapel. "You planned this!"I removed his hand with deliberate calm. "Actually, your bride planned it. I just provided the audience." I straightened my tie. "Consider this karma, Reid. You should have treated her better."The federal agents were leading him away now, but his eyes burned with a hat
Clara's POVThe candlelight at Le Cirque cast shadows across Nathan Chen's impossibly perfect features as he studied me over his wine glass. In my past life, I might have blushed under such intense scrutiny. Now, I met his gaze with equal force."The Zhang deal," he said, setting down his glass with deliberate precision. "Tell me how you know about it."I smiled, letting the silk of my black dress slide slightly off one shoulder. "Careful, Mr. Chen. Information like that doesn't come free.""Name your price." His voice carried that dangerous edge I was beginning to recognize—the sound of a predator spotting prey."You assume I want something that can be bought?""Everyone has a price, Clara." He leaned forward, his cologne teasing my senses. "The question is, what's yours?""A partnership," I said, matching his posture. "I have information that could make you billions. You have the resources to help me destroy Alexander Reid completely."Nathan's dark eyes flickered with interest. "An
Clara's POVThe Reid Enterprises building loomed before me, less imposing now that I knew its foundations were built on lies. I adjusted my Chanel suit and strode through the lobby, ignoring the whispers that followed."Mrs. Reid—I mean, Miss Lin!" The security guard stumbled over my name. "You're not authorized—""Check again," I smiled sweetly. "I believe you'll find I'm still on the board of directors.""But Mr. Reid said—""Mr. Reid is in federal custody, isn't he?" I arched an eyebrow. "Now, my credentials, please."His face paled as he verified his tablet. Success—in the chaos of Alexander's arrest, no one had thought to revoke my access.The executive floor was pandemonium. SEC agents combed through files while shell-shocked employees huddled in corners, whispering behind their hands."Clara!" Jessica's voice rang out. "You have no right to be here!"I turned slowly, savoring her disheveled appearance. "Hello, bestie. Love the outfit—orange jumpsuit next, perhaps?""You vindict
Alexander's POVI watched through the security feeds as Clara and Chen raced down the stairwell. Three years of careful planning, destroyed in a single morning by a woman I'd underestimated. The thought burned like acid in my veins."Sir," Johnson whispered, "the building's surrounded by federal agents.""Then we'll use the tunnels." I straightened my tie, a habit even handcuffs couldn't break. "Has the package been delivered to my office?""Yes, sir. Timer set as requested.""And the backup files?""Destroyed, as per protocol."I smiled, remembering Clara's face at the altar. Such fire, such betrayal. She'd learned well from me—perhaps too well."Sir," another guard approached. "Miss Stevens is asking for instructions.""Tell her to stick to the plan." I checked my watch. "And remind her what happens to loose ends.""You're really going to kill her?" Johnson asked. "Clara, I mean."I turned to him slowly. "Having doubts, old friend?""It's just... she was good to us, sir. To all of u
Clara's POVThe parking garage echoed with the sound of my heels as Nathan pulled me toward his Aston Martin. Smoke from the explosion filled the air, but I forced myself to stay focused. I couldn't let him see how shaken I was by Alexander's escape."Get in," Nathan commanded, opening the passenger door. His normally perfect suit was covered in dust, yet somehow he managed to look even more devastatingly handsome."I can handle myself," I protested, but slid into the leather seat anyway. The car purred to life as Nathan gunned the engine."Clearly," he said dryly, speeding up the ramp. "Is that why you're shaking?"I hadn't realized my hands were trembling until he pointed it out. "It's just the adrenaline.""Clara." His voice softened as he navigated through traffic. "You don't have to pretend with me.""I'm not pretending anything." I stared straight ahead, trying to ignore how his cologne filled the confined space of the car. "I knew exactly what I was getting into when I exposed
Clara's POVWhen Nathan left for his morning meetings, I began my investigation.Five years of memories from my previous life had taught me one crucial lesson: information was power. And in the Chen family's world, power was everything.I accessed Nathan's private server – a risk, but one carefully calculated. My fingers moved with practiced precision, decrypting files that most would consider impenetrable. Years of watching Nathan had taught me his encryption patterns.Sophie's neural regeneration research files caught my attention. The breakthrough wasn't just medical—it was revolutionary. Victor Volkov's persistent interest wasn't academic—it was strategic.A notification pinged. An encrypted message from an unknown source."You're not who you claim to be."My heart raced. Someone was watching. Tracking. But who?I'd spent my entire reincarnated life carefully constructing my identity as Clara Lin. Each move calculated, each relationship strategically chosen. Nathan Chen wasn't jus
Clara's POVThe dawn broke over Manhattan, casting golden light across Nathan's private study. Confidential documents were spread across his desk – blueprints of corporate warfare that would reshape entire industries.Sophie's neural regeneration research sat at the center of these plans. A technology that could revolutionize medical treatment, but in the hands of the Chen family, it was more than a breakthrough. It was a weapon."You're studying those documents quite intensely," Nathan observed, catching me reviewing the research notes.I met his gaze, careful to reveal nothing. "Fascinating work."Something flickered in his eyes. Recognition? Suspicion? In our dangerous dance, every glance was a potential revelation.Victor Volkov's interest in the research was growing. His connections with Russian biotechnology firms suggested more than academic curiosity. He was hunting something – or someone."Victor wants something," I stated, not asking.Nathan's smile was razor-sharp. "Everyon
Clara's POVThe morning light filtered through Nathan's penthouse, casting long shadows across the marble floors. I stood by the floor-to-ceiling windows, my reflection a ghost of memories from a life long past.One lifetime ago, I had been naive. Trusting. Betrayed by those closest to me – Alexander, my so-called husband, and Elena, my best friend. Their affair had destroyed everything I believed in, ending in my tragic death just moments before our wedding.Now, I was Clara Lin. Fiancée to Nathan Chen. A woman who remembered everything, who would never be a victim again.Nathan emerged from his home office, his crisp Tom Ford suit a testament to his impeccable control. "We need to discuss the upcoming merger," he said, not a request but a statement.I turned, meeting his intense gaze. "Reid Industries?"His lips curved into a predatory smile. "Jessica won't know what hit her."I knew the depths of Nathan's revenge. Where others saw a business acquisition, I saw a calculated dismantl
Clara's POVThe Chen family's annual gala was never just a social event. It was a carefully orchestrated display of power, influence, and strategic alliances. As Nathan's fiancée, I had become the center of whispered conversations and calculating glances.I adjusted the emerald green Valentino gown that hugged my curves, a silent armor against the predatory eyes of Manhattan's elite. Nathan stood beside me, his hand possessively resting on my lower back – a statement more than a gesture of affection."Relax," he murmured, his lips barely moving. "You're broadcasting your discomfort."If only he knew how much more I understood about this world than anyone realized. My previous lifetime had been a painful lesson in survival, and this time, I was determined to be more than just a pawn.Victor Volkov approached, his expensive cologne preceding him like a warning. "Mr. Chen. Ms. Lin." His smile didn't reach his eyes. "Quite the power couple."Nathan's grip on my waist tightened imperceptib
Clara's POVThe Chen family archives were a labyrinth of secrets. Tucked away in a climate-controlled room within Nathan's private estate, the collection represented generations of carefully curated history.I ran my fingers along leather-bound ledgers, feeling the weight of unspoken stories. Nathan trusted me enough to grant me unlimited access, but something told me he didn't know everything hidden in these archives.In my past life, I'd never had the opportunity to dig this deep.A leather-bound journal caught my attention. The binding was older, slightly worn. Dated 1998 – the year before Nathan's father took full control of Chen Enterprises."Find something interesting?" Nathan's voice made me jump.I turned, catching his predatory smile. Even after months of marriage, his ability to move silently never ceased to amaze me."Just exploring," I said carefully, placing the journal back.His hand settled on my waist, pulling me close. "Be careful what you explore, my love. Some secre
Aria's POVSophie Chen had always been the wild card in her family's perfectly orchestrated world.Where Nathan was calculated cold, precise, she was fire. Passion. Rebellion. And right now, that rebellion was focused on one person: Ethan Blake."You're being watched," I muttered into my champagne, catching her eye across the private rooftop lounge.Sophie's laugh was bitter. "Story of my life, Aria."Aria Martinez – Nathan's trusted personal assistant. The woman who knew every secret, who moved between worlds like a ghost. My job was more than just managing schedules. I was Nathan's eyes and ears, his most trusted confidante.And Sophie Chen was becoming a significant problem."Ethan is dangerous," I said carefully. "Not the kind of man your brother would approve."Sophie's green eyes, so different from Nathan's intense dark gaze, flashed with defiance. "Since when do I care about Nathan's approval?"Everything about her screamed danger. Ethan Blake wasn't just another man in her lif
Clara's POVThe Chen family dynamics were more complicated than I'd ever imagined. Sitting in Nathan's home office, watching him meticulously review financial reports, I realized that our relationship was just the surface of a much deeper, more intricate game."You're thinking too loudly," Nathan murmured without looking up, his fingers dancing across the keyboard.I smiled, tracing the rim of my coffee cup. "Just observing."His eyes flickered up, catching mine with that predatory intensity that had become frighteningly familiar. "Observing what?""You," I said candidly. "The way you move, the way you calculate every single move."Nathan set down his pen, giving me his full attention. The air between us crackled with unspoken tension. In my previous life, I would have looked away. Now, I held his gaze."And what do you see?" he asked, a dangerous smile playing on his lips."A man who controls everything," I replied. "Except perhaps his sister's heart."The temperature in the room drop
Clara's POVNathan's engagement ring felt heavy on my finger – a flawless black diamond set in platinum. It was nothing like the traditional solitaire Alexander had given me in either lifetime."Still having second thoughts?" Nathan's voice carried across his penthouse bedroom, dark and knowing.I turned from the window to find him watching me with that predatory intensity that made my pulse race. Even fresh from the shower, wearing only black silk pajama pants, he radiated power."Not about you," I said honestly.His smile was dangerous as he moved closer. "Then what?"How could I explain that I was afraid of history repeating itself? That in my previous life, happiness had been snatched away just when I thought I was safe?"I'm not good at letting people in," I said instead.Nathan's laugh was pure sin as he pulled me against his bare chest. "Good thing I'm excellent at breaking down walls.""Is that what you're doing?""Among other things." His hands spanned my waist possessively.
Clara's POVThe headlines had been running for days now: "Reid Industries Scandal Deepens," "Alexander Reid Faces Federal Charges," "Corporate Dynasty Crumbles." Each one felt like another nail in my past life's coffin."You're doing it again," Nathan's voice pulled me from my thoughts. We were in his home office, the Manhattan skyline glittering beyond the windows. "That look like you're seeing ghosts."I set down the tablet, trying to steady my racing heart. Even after weeks in his presence, Nathan Chen's ability to read me was unnerving. "Just thinking about how quickly things can change.""Hmm." He moved behind my chair, his hands settling on my shoulders. "You mean how quickly you changed them.""I didn't do this alone," I reminded him, leaning back into his touch despite myself.His laugh was dark honey. "No, you didn't. But you orchestrated it perfectly." His fingers traced my collarbone. "Almost like you knew exactly how everyone would react."My breath caught. Sometimes Nathan