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Chapter 32: The Puppet Master
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2024-11-14 17:06:48Related chapters
The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 33: The Investors Conference (i)
On a Monday morning, Louisa stands with confidence, checking herself out in front of the half length mirror in the bathroom of Liam's private hospital room. She had practiced her presentation for the investors conference for many hours and even overnight, honing every little detail. She would have loved to spend the night on her comfy bed at home but for Liam's surgery scheduled for the following day. "Mom, you look sharp." Liam smiles adoringly at his mother as she exits the bathroom and takes a seat on a single chair, crossing her legs. Louisa grins, resolve gleaming in her eyes. "Thank you, my love. I'm sharp." Her phone beeps with a text from Dave, her research assistant and she reaches for it. "Miss Emerson, the technical staff will be ready to put up the presentation equipment at eight in the morning. I'll see you at nine.” With a mental cross off her list, Louisa nods to herself. Looking up at Liam, she says, “it's Fred's day off. He promised to stay with you til
Last Updated : 2024-11-15The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 34: The Investors Conference (ii)
Evelyn's eyes widens in bewilderment as she rushes into the facility. She had been called for a family emergency that morning and couldn't make it early. But a quick call to Luisa had assured her that she could take a few hours off since they have everything under control. But she arrives to meet chaos. She is especially shocked to see the presentation slides and her mouth hangs open. After all of their meticulous preparation, this was the last thing she had anticipated. Uncertain of what to do next, she freezes. But Dave eventually manages to take back control of the slides as Kingsley spoke. He gives Louisa a victorious thumbs-up, and the original Mist slides takes the place of the fabricated data. Louisa grabs the opportunity and speaks more forcefully than ever. “I'm grateful, Mr. Wills. We'll return to Mist's actual vision now, everyone, if you'll let me continue." Her enthusiasm and knowledge win back the audience as she continues to discuss the revolutionary eff
Last Updated : 2024-11-15The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 35: The Transplant
“Come on, Evelyn,” Cordelia says, waving dismissively while feigning innocence. “I'm only saying we should be consistent. Respect requires some of us to put in more effort and not take shortcuts.” She gave Alan a thoughtful glance, as he observes the conversation with a slight smirk of satisfaction. Silently, Ashby watches as well, his face unreadable, but his silence is almost acquiescence. Louisa takes a deep breath, lifts her chin, and looks directly into Cordelia's eyes. "I won't respond in a way that would degrade your implication, Cordelia. “If you're worried about professionalism, you might want to concentrate on your own. It is hardly the conduct of a professional who strives for honesty to ruin a presentation.” Cordelia's face briefly lit up with rage, but she quickly recovers and smiles mockingly at Louisa. “Be careful, Louisa. You're portraying me as your adversary.” Even though everyone can still hear her, she leans closer and speaks almost in a whisper. “For
Last Updated : 2024-11-15The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 36: A Scathing Reprimand
Hours passed. Louisa keeps checking her phone and the wall clock in the hallway. It had taken longer than they had anticipated. She feels a whirl of anxiety that almost turns into a panic. At last, the operating room doors open, and Professor Craig appears, looking tired but calm. Louisa's eyes shoot up as she leaps to her feet. "Is he...?" Professor Craig's lips stretch into a thin line. "Liam's heart is recovering nicely from the procedure. Although it took longer than anticipated, we remain hopeful.” Though it was tinged with fatigue, Louisa feels a wave of relief sweep over her, and her breath catches. "Thank you," she whispers, putting her palms together and closing her eyes. Professor Craig gives a nod, but his expression changes. “There's something we weren't prepared for.” "What do you mean?" Louisa asks, her heart in her mouth. Dr. Fred joins them, and Professor Craig pauses, looking at him. “It might be necessary for us to continue monitoring him. Al
Last Updated : 2024-11-16The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 37: A Secret Favour
Just like Lyon, Hardy has not been able to find out anything regarding Liam's paternity. He had used every available resource at his disposal, which is a lot, but still, he got no useful result. Louisa indeed took care of it nicely so that anyone doesn't find anything, no matter how hard they try. But he isn't about to give up. His interest in it only heightens day after day. He knows Louisa to be a cunning woman and he can feel it in his gut that she is probably up to her old tricks again. But who is she trying to deceive this time? Five years ago, it was him. Who is her prey now? Stepping into the ICU and seeing Liam lying almost lifelessly on his bed, his heart sinks as memories of his after-surgery ordeal resurface. Why is Louisa denying such a fragile kid the love of his father — whoever it is? She probably has her reasons but does she think she can care for this boy alone? Looking around, he finds that she is absent and he heaves a sigh. Although her absence i
Last Updated : 2024-11-16The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 38: Threads Of Truth (i)
Linda's chest constricts, but she maintains her smile. "Louisa?” She asks, in pretense of not recognizing the name. “Yeah, my friend from the other day” “Oh! The boy’s mother? What's happening?” “The boy's name is Liam.” Fred promptly corrects her. “Well?” Linda shrugs, looking expectantly at Fred. She signals him to keep talking with a wave of her hand. "You know, she's been down lately. To lift her spirits, I simply want to do something special for her. But to be honest, I have no idea." He gives a little chuckle. "You know me, after all. This kind of stuff is not exactly my forte.” Linda swallows, attempting to hide her pain. "Who would have thought you're this thoughtful?” Linda mutters under her breath while looking away from Fred. Unable to understand her words even after straining his ears, he asks, “what do you say?” Linda smiles half-heartedly and speaks up, “Louisa is the only one you think about isn't she?” She tilts her head thoughtfully, forcing herself to b
Last Updated : 2024-11-16The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 39: Threads Of Truth (ii)
But all is still. The weight of silence surrounds him, thick and pressing. As Kingsley fills out the required documentation, his hand quivers a little. He quietly chastises himself, realizing that he has come too far to lose his nerve now. After finishing, he returns the paperwork, and the receptionist directs him to a private waiting area. A few minutes later, a lab technician with a clipboard and a white coat shows up. "Mr. Kingsley, I understand you’re here for a paternity test?" Nodding, Kingsley replies, “that's correct." ”With caution, he produces the vial and hands it over, saying, "I have a sample here." The technician points to an adjacent chair after taking a quick look at the vial. “To conduct the test, we'll also need a sample from you. This won't take long at all.” After settling onto the chair, Kingsley rolls up his sleeve and prepares himself mentally. The technician swabs the inside of Kingsley's cheek, and although the entire process ends quickly, Kin
Last Updated : 2024-11-17The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 40: Date Gone Wrong
For a moment, they both stand silently, each lost in their own thoughts. Half expecting to see Kingsley reappear, Louisa finds herself looking down the hall. She can't decide whether he came simply to check on Liam, like last time or if he had other intentions.Even if it is to just check on Liam, his visit is becoming uncomfortable for her.She better start devising a plan to keep Liam away from him.Thank goodness the surgery is over. Hopefully, they'll be out of here soon.Once out, she will make sure to get Liam away from New York for a while.A holiday at her cousin's place in Baltimore, Maryland will probably be a good move.Pushing the thoughts to the back of her mind, for later consideration, she looks up at Fred."Do you think Liam will be okay with… all of this?" She begins, her voice hesitant.“When he wakes up, he might need us more than before.”Fred looks into her eyes, sensing the unspoken fear that lurks beneath: that Liam would be different upon awakening, that he w
Last Updated : 2024-11-17
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The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 140: Honouring Love And Fresh Starts
Kingsley's lavish mansion is illuminated by the golden rays of the setting sun, creating a fascinating atmosphere for Liam's fifth birthday celebration. Music, laughter, and the vivid hues of balloons and streamers fills the garden. With endless energy, a few children run around, their laughter mingling with the gentle murmur of adult conversation. With his arm loosely around Louisa's waist in a romantic manner, Kingsley steps close to the imposing fountain. They share a look that says it all: years of hardships, miscommunications, and heartache has brought them to this point, stronger and more in love than ever. Their entire world revolves around their baby, Liam, and this day is a celebration of both his life and their family's tenacity. As she watches Liam blow out his candles in front of his young buddies, Louisa murmurs, "Look at him," in a proud tone. "He's very happy. So deserving, he has been a strong boy.” Kingsley answers with a gentle kiss on her temple. "Just
The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 139: Party Tomorrow
"Martha?" Louisa calls in a scarcely discernible whisper. Martha stands there with a serene face and inquisitive gaze. "Louisa," she says quietly. Louisa feels fear take hold of her chest. How did Martha even know her house? Yeah well, she probably asked Evelyn. But why did she have to visit now of all times? Kingsley is inside her house, even though she had assured Martha that she would let go of him only a few hours earlier. Martha may misinterpret things if she sees him with her. But before Louisa can come up with an excuse, to dismiss Martha or go out with her, Kingsley speaks. "Who is it?" The sound of Kingsley's footsteps approaching was followed by his voice coming from behind her. Louisa's face becomes pale as she turns slightly. "It is….” When Kingsley comes into view, he spots Martha standing at the door, and his eyebrows shoot up in surprise. "Martha?" Martha's expression is unreadable as her eyes darts between them. Now knowing the reason for Louisa's sh
The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 138: Double Surprise Visits
Kingsley's heart races in his chest as he stands outside Louisa's apartment. He had been pacing his living room for hours, struggling with his feelings. Ultimately, though, he knows he has to speak with Louisa. They have to be together, no matter what happens. Louisa's face changes from surprise to a kind of reserved resignation as she opens the door. Silently, she moves out of the way to let him in. "Daddy!" Before Kingsley can speak, Liam's voice calls excitedly, his face lighting up with unbridled excitement as he rushes into Kingsley's legs. Kingsley kneels down and embraces Liam tightly. "Hey son. You were missed.” "I also missed you! Will you be here for dinner? Liam questions, hope glimmering in his eyes. With a gentle giggle, Kingsley runs a hand through Liam's hair. "No son, not tonight. But you need to go spend some time playing in your room, okay? I must speak with your mother.” Liam pauses, looking from one parent to the other. "All right, but promise y
The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 137: Table For Two
Fred had been getting ready for the evening all day. He had selected one of the best bars in the city, renowned for its quiet jazz, cozy atmosphere, and wine selection that would please even the pickiest connoisseur. He had gone above and beyond by placing an advance order for Linda's favorite meal and a bottle of wine that she had mentioned in passing months prior during a conversation at work. Fred is early, straightening his tie and gazing around the table he had reserved at the window, which overlooks the lights of the city. It has to be flawless. Fred's breath sticks in his throat as Linda enters, looking stunning. She accessorized her figure-hugging black dress with subtle jewelry that gleams in the low light. Fred's pulse skips a beat as her hair falls over her shoulders and she walks with assurance. Her voice is pleasant, yet tinged with suspicion as she says, "Fred. It looks so good in here, " as she looks around, admiring the bar. Fred gets up and drags her
The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 136: "You're Precious To Me"
Standing before Martha's hotel suite door, Louisa pauses. She knocks softly after her knuckles briefly hover over the glossy wood. The door opens as the faint sound of footfall nears, and Martha appears, her face instantly changing from one of surprise to one of cautious mistrust. "Louisa?" Martha's hand tightens on the doorframe as she speaks sharply. "How are you aware of my lodging arrangements?" Louisa smiles slightly, disarmingly. "Martha, you're my friend. Even if you don't want me to, I would be aware of your location. Martha pauses, obviously surprised by the answer, but her skepticism remains unshaken. Reluctantly, she moves aside to let Louisa in. It is a tidy, impersonal room, the sort of transitory place that is less like a home and more like a waiting room. Louisa calmly and deliberately sits down in one of the window-facing chairs. Martha crosses her arms and stays upright. "Louisa, why are you here?" Martha speaks in a clipped tone. "You're wasting
The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 135: A Total Mess
Although Louisa is hardly aware of it, the R&D department at Palmer Tech is bustling as usual. The cursor on her computer screen is blinking impatiently as she sits at her desk and stares blankly. Her team is busy around her, talking about testing plans and prototypes, but their voices are muffled by the flurry of ideas racing through her head. "Miss Emerson?" A hesitant voice pierces her fog. One of her less experienced developers, Carter, is clutching a tablet. "I want to present the project's revised design specifications to you. I believe we've resolved the—” "Have you checked it again?" Louisa abruptly interrupts him with a snap. Carter blinks in surprise at her tone. "Yeah, but I figured you'd like to—" "Why bring it to me if you think it is good enough? Carter, do your job. I don't have time to obsess over every little thing.” There is silence in the room. Carter takes a step back, holding the iPad as her crew exchange suspicious looks. “I apologize. I'll che
The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 134: Farewell To True Love
With her mind full of unrelenting thoughts, Louisa frantically packs Liam's school bag as the morning light streams through the curtains. Simultaneously, her hands tucked in a folder of his drawings, a lunchbox, and a water bottle. With his unlimited enthusiasm, Liam, who is already wearing his school uniform, dances about the living room behind her. "Mom! I'm ready!” Liam yells. Louisa looks at the clock and says, "Just a minute, sweetheart." They are late. The doorbell rings as she zips the bag closed and sets it on the table. "I'll get it, Mom!" Liam shouts and runs to the door. "Hold on, Liam!" Louisa begins, but he has already flung it open. "Uncle Hardy!" Liam shouts, his voice full of happiness. "You're here!" Louisa's forehead furrows as she turns. Hardy's towering body fills the entryway as he stands there. There is a glimmer of something in his eyes that Louisa can't quite identify, but he is grinning as usual. "Hey, Liam!" Hardy ruffles his hair. "Ho
The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 133: A Lot Of Drama
Evelyn rests her head on John's chest as she nestles up against him on his soft sofa. Soft music hums in the background and the room is filled with the warmth of the fireplace. John put an arm around her, his fingers idly making patterns on her shoulder while they laughed quietly at a ridiculous story from the day before. However, when the laughing subsides, John becomes aware of Evelyn's aloof expression. He tilts his head to gaze at her and remarks, "You're quiet tonight," gently. "Are you still concerned about us? Or is it about my family again?” With a slight smile on her lips, Evelyn shakes her head. "No, John, you are everything I desire, and regarding your family, I have already made up my mind. I will do whatever it takes to defend our love. That matter has been resolved.” John's hand moves to tuck a stray hair behind her ear as his lips form an excited smile. "That's my girl. As courageous and unyielding as ever.” His voice lowers to a playful whisper as he plants
The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 132: Indecision
The rumpled blankets are evidence of Kingsley's restless night as he sleeps, sprawled over his bed. Except for the dim golden light that filters through the borders, the room is dark and subdued, due to the closed drapes. The floor is littered with empty champagne bottles, a silent reminder of his fruitless attempts to block out his thoughts. His tie dangles loosely from the bedpost, and his suit jacket is crumpled in one area. He is startled out of his wits by a knock on the door. Unwilling to confront anyone, he moans, but the knock is louder this time. "Boss? It's Hardy. Are you inside?” Kingsley rubs his hand over his scruffy face and mumbles a curse. "Come in," he rasps at last. With a creak, the door opens, and Hardy enters, his worried features inscribed on his face. He looks around the room right away, soaking in the commotion. The bottles, the messy bed, and his boss's rumpled appearance present a picture that is very different from the calm and authoritat
