The charity event kicked off with an air of excitement and generosity. The venue was adorned with vibrant decorations, and the atmosphere was filled with a mix of anticipation and goodwill. People mingled, sharing stories and laughter, all gathered for a common cause.And in the middle of the lively chatter, William, alongside Tessa, took the stage once more, this time to formally begin the event. The emcee assisted William in guiding the evening's proceedings. William, being transparent about the event’s intentions, explained to the attendees how every penny donated would be utilized. He emphasized the importance of their contributions, not just in monetary terms, but in transforming lives.Throughout the night, numerous guests, both wealthy businessmen and influential clans, generously donated valuable items and substantial amounts of money. Cash donations flowed into the charity fund, reflecting the community's unity in supporting the cause. William made sure to express his heartfe
Amidst the dazzling lights and the low hum of animated conversations, Cindy's heart raced as she navigated the charity event, all the while locked in a silent battle with herself. She couldn't deny the allure of William, his charisma, and his dashing looks. He had been a classmate and a friend long ago, and now, seeing him as a married man, stirred both her admiration and her apprehension.She understood the moral implications of her presence, the ominous task Mrs. Reign had set upon her – to infiltrate William's life, seduce him, and break the bond he had with Tessa. The idea of becoming a mistress was repugnant to her, yet her family's debts hung heavily over her, an inescapable burden.The event continued and Cindy's nervousness grew. The allure of this man, married as he was, was undeniable, and her inner conflict intensified. She found herself torn between a desire that had awakened and the overwhelming guilt of the role she had reluctantly embraced.What if she failed? The quest
Cindy, her eyes glinting with malicious intent, continued her assault on Tessa's self-confidence. "You know, Tessa," she began, her tone dripping with arrogance, "I've achieved so much in life. I hold a master's degree and have traveled to numerous countries. Modeling agencies even approached me, hoping to sign me as a model. What about you? What accomplishments do you have?"Tessa, although deeply hurt by Cindy's relentless attacks, refused to let her emotions show. With a calm demeanor, she replied, "I may not have a master's degree or a glamorous modeling career, but I have something far more valuable—a loving family and a husband who cherishes me. My life is rich in love and genuine connections, things that can't be measured by degrees or modeling contracts."Cindy's laughter, sharp and mocking, filled the air. "Love won't pay the bills or open doors to success, Tessa," she sneered. "You may have a loving family, but I have the world at my feet. I have influence, wealth, and oppor
Cindy, still nursing the sting of rejection from William, found herself cornered by the persistent advances of a handsome stranger. The scent of alcohol hung heavy in the air as she downed another drink, seeking solace in the numbing embrace of the alcohol."Hey, sexy lady!" the man greeted, his words slurred slightly from his own indulgence in alcohol. Despite her annoyance, Cindy forced a smile, attempting to mask her true feelings. "Hello," she replied, her voice strained.The man, clearly emboldened by the atmosphere of the party, continued his attempts to charm her. "You look lonely here. Want some company?" he asked, his tone dripping with false confidence.Cindy, her mind still preoccupied with thoughts of William and Tessa, decided to play along, if only to distract herself from the ache in her heart. "Sure, why not," she responded, feigning interest. She engaged in small talk, her eyes occasionally darting towards the couple she so desperately desired.While they are talking,
The charity event is almost done. So Tessa decided to go to the comfort room. She stood before the mirror, her eyes red and swollen from the tears she had shed. The reflection staring back at her seemed to echo her inner turmoil. She whispered to herself, her voice barely audible in the silent room, "Why can't I be like her? Why can't I be confident and strong, like Cindy?"Tessa's hands trembled as she wiped away her tears, her mind clouded with self-doubt. She questioned her own worth, her insecurities gnawing at her from within. "Am I not enough for William?" she murmured, her voice barely audible. "Maybe I'm just too plain, too ordinary for him."Tears continued to stream down her face as she questioned her self-worth. She wondered why William had chosen her, a simple woman who had never been to college, over someone like Cindy."Is he regretting his choice?" Tessa whispered to herself, her voice trembling. "Does he wish he could be with someone like Cindy instead of me? Maybe I'm
Tessa sank into the couch, exhaustion washing over her like a tidal wave. Her children, Mark, Michael, and Willow, gathered around her, their worried eyes reflecting the concern they felt for their mother. Mark, her perceptive eldest, reached out and took her hand, his eyes fixed on her face. "Mom, are you okay?" he asked, his voice soft and filled with empathy.She forced a tired smile, trying to mask her inner turmoil. "I'm just tired, sweetheart. Long nights like this can be exhausting."But her first child gaze was unwavering, and he saw through her facade. "Mom, please don't lie," he said gently. "I can tell something's bothering you. Are you sad? Is it about Ms. Cindy?”Tessa was taken aback by her son's perceptiveness. She hadn't realized just how much her emotions had been laid bare. She sighed, giving in to the honesty that flowed between her and her children.She knelt down to Mark's level, her eyes meeting him with gratitude. "You're right, Mark. I am a little sad. Miss Ci
Mrs. Reign's sharp voice cut through the air as Cindy answered her phone. "Cindy, I want to see you. Now," she barked, her tone commanding.Cindy, feeling a chill crawl down her spine, stammered, "Yes, Mrs. Reign. I'll be right there."After hurriedly finishing her shower, Cindy met Mrs. Reign in a secluded corner of a lavish restaurant. Mrs. Reign, a woman with a gaze as cold as ice, scrutinized Cindy with a calculating look."Well, spill it out. What happened at the charity event?" Mrs. Reign demanded, her eyes narrowing.Cindy, trying to impress her, started recounting the evening, adding a touch of drama to her tale. "I made sure to subtly belittle Tessa," she said, a malicious glint in her eyes. "But William, he looked at her with such love and adoration. It made me sick. He doesn't deserve her."Mrs. Reign's lips curled into a sinister smile. "Good, good," she hissed. "Make sure he starts doubting his choice. We can't let him be blinded by that girl's charms. We need him to real
The next morning, Tessa stirred a pot of oatmeal, her thoughts far away. The weight of worry hung heavy on her shoulders, making the simple act of cooking breakfast feel like an impossible task. As she moved about the kitchen, her husband, William, observed her with a keen eye, sensing the sadness that clouded her eyes.With a gentle touch, he wrapped his arms around her from behind, pulling her close. "Tessa, love, what's bothering you?" he asked, his voice soft and filled with concern.Tessa leaned into his embrace, finding comfort in his warm presence. She hesitated for a moment, her heart heavy with the truth she was about to share. "William," she began, her voice catching in her throat, "I don't trust Cindy. I feel like she's here to destroy our marriage, to steal you away from me."William's grip tightened around her, his expression grave. He turned her around to face him, his eyes searching hers for the depth of her emotions. "Tessa," he said, his voice steady and reassuring, "
So the two of them stepped out of the bar, he couldn't contain his excitement. He was determined to make Sarah his, consequences be damned. He led her to his newest sports car, a sleek and shiny machine that screamed luxury."Wow, is this your car, Lucas?" Sarah asked, her eyes wide with awe.Lucas smirked, loving the way she looked at him. "Of course. I have a collection of sports cars in my villa," he boasted, opening the car door for her.Sarah climbed into the passenger seat, impressed by Lucas's display of wealth and power. As they drove towards her place, Lucas couldn't help but try to impress her even more."So, Sarah, tell me about your family. What do they do in life?" Lucas asked, trying to steer the conversation away from his own deception.Sarah hesitated for a moment, unsure of how much to reveal. "My parents are in marketing, and many more," she replied finally. "They are constantly moving from town to another town because of business.”Lucas raised an eyebrow, intrigued
"I couldn't help but notice you from across the room. You look absolutely stunning in that emerald dress. I’m not gonna lie, when I tell you that,”Sarah smiled politely, but there was a hint of skepticism in her eyes. "Thank you," she replied. "And let me just say, you have the most captivating smile I've ever seen." He said, extending his hands.Sarah chuckled softly. "You certainly know how to lay on the charm, don't you?"Lucas grinned, feeling emboldened by her response. "I like to think I have a way with words. So, what brings a beautiful woman like you to a place like this?"He couldn't resist the urge to show off. He casually mentioned his successful businesses, subtly hinting at his wealth and success. "I own a few businesses myself," he said casually. "Nothing too fancy, just a few million-dollar ventures here and there."Sarah raised an eyebrow, impressed despite herself. "That's quite impressive. It must keep you busy?”He shrugged nonchalantly. "It does, but I always mak
The luxury high-end bar was highly recommendable in the town, with its glittering chandeliers, plush velvet couches, and marble-topped tables. Soft jazz music played in the background, creating a sophisticated ambiance. The place was bustling with well-dressed patrons, sipping on expensive cocktails and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.And inside of the place, Lucas Davis sat at the bar, a glass of whiskey in hand, a smirk on his face. Despite being engaged, he was determined to enjoy his night out and relish in the attention of others. He was known as the "life of the party,". He took a sip of his drink, Lucas's eyes scanned the room, taking in the scene around him. He saw his "friends," the sons of wealthy businessmen, approaching him with smiles on their faces."Lucas! You're here too! What the hell, man!" one of them exclaimed, clapping him on the back."Of course, I'm here. I'm everywhere," He replied with a cocky grin, reveling in the attention."But I heard you were very busy
Lucas Davis was seething with anger. His face was red, and his hands trembled with frustration as he paced back and forth in his office. Harper watched him with a smirk, enjoying his display of rage."I can't believe that old man, mom! Imagine that? He wasted my time! My time is too precious just to be wasted! How dare he decline us? They're the ones who set up an appointment with us! They're the ones who need us!" He shouted, his voice echoing off the walls.His mother chuckled wickedly. "Yes, the nerve of him! I can't believe William declined us. Well, he hasn't declined yet, he told us he'll think twice.""The nerve of him! Doesn't that old guy know who we are? We're billionaires! Everyone wants to get a partnership with me!" Lucas roared, his fists clenched in fury.Harper stood up, her eyes flashing with malice. "Hey, calm down, Lucas. We need to be strategic about this. You can't let our emotions control you!”Lucas glared at her. "I am calm, Mom! I just can't stand it when some
Finally, after like the end of the world, William and his wife got back home. The heavy feeling of the day seemed to hang heavy on his shoulders. He sank onto the sofa, feeling drained and stressed from the encounter with Lucas Davis and his mother.“Ahh! So tired!” He complained while massaging his neck.His wife watched him closely, her expression unreadable. "So, have you decided, William?" she asked, her voice tense.He rubbed his temples, feeling the beginnings of a headache. "I can't decide yet, Cindy. We just got home, please, not now." he replied, his tone weary.Cindy's face tightened at his response. She, too, was exhausted, but she knew they needed to make a decision soon. "I'm exhausted too! It's Not just you! But you need to decide soon. If you manage to sign the deal with Lucas Davis, then your mother will let you support your long-lost children," she reminded him, pretending to care for his children."I know that, Cindy!" William snapped, his patience wearing thin. "But
He can't help but chuckle bitterly. Now, he finally understood. His mother and Harper Davis have the same evil personality.They would do everything just for their gain. They're just both evil."You hate Harper, but you aren't aware that you're just the same as her, mom.”"How dare you compare me to that woman?!" she seethed, her voice sharp with indignation. "I would never stoop to her level!"His own frustration bubbling to the surface. "You're both willing to manipulate and use anyone, even your own family, to get what you want. How is that any different? You may not see it, but your actions speak otherwise. Using my children as pawns in your games is just as ruthless as anything Harper Davis would do!”His mother's eyes flashed with fury. "I've only ever wanted what's best for you and your children! How can you accuse me of such things? Why can’t you understand me, huh? Are we going to fight forever, William?”"Because it's true, mom! You blackmailed me, you used my children as le
They left the meeting room and went inside the elevator. After the doors closed, the tension among them was palpable. His mother's face was flushed with anger, and his wife's expression was a mix of frustration and disappointment."William, this is madness! How could you let this opportunity slip away? We could have had a deal with the Davis family!" his mother berated him, her voice echoing in the confined space.His wife chimed in, her tone sharp with accusation. "Yeah, I can't believe you! You had the chance to secure a partnership with one of the most influential families in the business world, and you just let it go!"He tried to defend his decision. "I couldn't agree to the deal without knowing all the details. I need to be sure it's the right move for our company."His mother scoffed, clearly unimpressed. "Details? What details? Lucas Davis offered us a golden opportunity, and you threw it away because of your stubbornness!""You never listen to anyone, do you?" Cindy looks ver
Lucas Davis entered the room with a casual swagger, his eyes flickering with a hint of amusement. He was well aware of the tension in the air, but it didn't seem to faze him in the slightest."Ohh, we have guests today! Mr. Reign, my apologies for the delay. Business calls, you know how it is," Lucas said with a dismissive wave of his hand, as if being late was a minor inconvenience.William felt a surge of irritation. "I understand that, Mr. Davis. However, being punctual is a sign of respect. It shows that you value the other person's time," he replied, his tone firm.Lucas chuckled, leaning back in his chair. "Respect, Mr. Reign? In the world of business, respect is earned, not given. And I'm sure you'll agree, I've earned my fair share."He gritted his teeth, struggling to maintain his composure. He could feel his wife’s hand on his arm, a silent reminder to stay calm."I'm here to discuss a potential partnership between our companies, Mr. Davis. However, I must insist on professi
He can feel the tension in the room was palpable. Cindy and his mother were fidgeting in their seats, exchanging excited whispers, while he sat back, trying to remain composed."Why are you both so excited?" He asked again, his tone more insistent this time.His wife gave him an exasperated look. "Dear, are you stupid or what? Don't you understand? This meeting could change everything for us. The Davis family is a huge opportunity for our business," she explained, her eyes shining with anticipation."But what if it's not what we expect? What if it's a trap?" He countered, his skepticism evident.His mother chimed in, her voice stern. "William, stop being so negative. I’m sick and tired of you, son! We have to be optimistic about this. Besides, Lucas Davis is a brilliant businessman. We could learn a lot from him!”He sighed, knowing he wouldn't win this argument. He leaned back in his chair, resigned to the fact that he would have to go through with the meeting, whether he liked it or