Everyone in the meeting room was eager to see how Eva would prove to them that she was capable of heading the project. Their intense gazes were fixed on her face, waiting for her to make her move. The tension in the room was palpable as they awaited her response.Eva's eyes swept through the meeting room. She then began to point at each designer one after the other."Hailey, you are in charge of the hospital project. Your top priorities are the safe and sanitary standards of the building, which include the usage of the new anti-bacterial decoration materials. In addition, it's your job to make sure there is room for the easy movement of larger surgical equipment and from the operation room.""Bela, during the execution of the school project, you have to keep in mind that it's a place of learning. The quality, safety and education functions must all be placed on the same importance level. None is more important that the other. Make sure the dormitory isn't far away from the canteen and
Tally had gotten wind of the welcome party.She had called Blake several times and sent him tons of messages, but he kept ignoring her. She had been on tenterhooks for the past few days, anxiously waiting for any response or acknowledgment from him. Her nerves were frayed as she wondered what was going on and why he was avoiding her.It cost her an arm and a leg to get the invitation for the party. Like the cunning woman that she was, she wanted to make a statement at the party by showing that she was in a relationship with Blake. Tally meticulously planned her outfit, imagining the jealous stares and whispers she would elicit from other guests when she arrived on Blake's arm.But her plan wasn't very feasible now.The recent scandals had died down with barely any trace. Tally had bought off the Chens, so they didn't mention anything about her involvement in the matter. She was hoping to use this opportunity to regain her footing and make a bold move, but now, things seemed uncertain.
Marian turned around slowly, a look of surprise flickering across her perfectly made-up face. Her smile faltered for a brief moment before regaining its composure. "Blake," she said, her voice dripping with feigned sweetness, "what a lovely surprise to see you here."Blake, however, wasn't fooled by her act. He narrowed his eyes, taking in her extravagant outfit and the way she was surrounded by a group of giggling socialites. "Marian," he said, his voice low and dangerous, "I thought I told you to stay away from this event."Marian scoffed, a haughty look replacing her feigned sweetness. "And who are you to give me orders, Blake? Besides, this is my social circle. These are my friends."Blake's brows furrowed."Friends who only associate with you because of your money and your name," Blake retorted, his voice laced with bitterness. "They wouldn't give you the time of day if you didn't have those things."A flicker of anger crossed Marian's eyes, but she quickly squashed it down. "Don
Blake emerged from the crowd, his eyes locking onto Marian with an icy glare.A chill ran down Marian's spine as she noticed him, her blood turning to ice.She gritted her teeth, swallowing the curse that lingered on the tip of her tongue. Forcing a polite expression despite the frustration boiling inside her, she reluctantly said, "I'm sorry." Her voice wavered slightly, betraying the struggle within her to maintain composure.Saying those words felt like all the strength had been drained out of her. Marian could feel the gazes on her, each one brimming with contempt."I suggest you watch your manners next time. If it happens again, I'll have no choice but to teach you a lesson."Jayson didn't mince his words, showing no concern for Blake's or Marian's feelings. His bluntness cut through the air, leaving a tense silence in its wake.Marian lowered her gaze to the floor, her hands clenching into fists as she tried to conceal the anger boiling inside her. Her heart pounded in her chest
Owen's baritone voice echoed in the hall."Eva is an exceptionally talented and professional woman. I deeply value her skills and integrity. It was shocking to see sensationalist media outlets fabricate stories simply because she shared a meal with me and my assistant. The sex-for-power scandal is not only outrageous but a blatant lie! Although the rumor has been debunked, I felt compelled to address it tonight. I cannot stand by and watch a promising architectural designer like Eva become the target of a smear campaign. Let it be known that she is completely innocent of all the allegations made against her."Owen's voice rang with conviction as he spoke, his eyes sweeping across the audience.Owen continued, "Eva's contributions to our projects have been invaluable, and her dedication is unmatched. It is unfortunate that such falsehoods can spread so easily, damaging the reputation of a true professional. I hope tonight serves as a reminder to us all about the importance of truth and
Blake offered it out of kindness, but Marian's next words made Eva question his intentions."That's right, Eva. Think twice. A country girl like you, lacking both knowledge and etiquette, would only end up humiliating yourself!"Marian's voice dripped with condescension, and the words cut through Eva, leaving her feeling small and inadequate. Blake's kind gesture now seemed tainted by Marian's harsh judgment."That's enough!" Blake grunted in annoyance.Marian recoiled in shock, though the resentment remained etched on her face.Meanwhile, Eva smiled confidently. "Who said I can't dance?"Blake and Marian were both stunned by her unexpected response, their surprise evident as they exchanged bewildered glances. Eva's unwavering poise and quiet determination left them momentarily speechless.As far as they knew, Eva had never danced in public.Eva smiled, placing her hand gracefully in Owen's palm, while the others watched in astonishment."It's my honor to dance with you, Mr. Lowes," s
"You want to help me? Thanks, but no thanks," Eva said, her tone cold."Come on, Eva. Don't be so quick to turn me down," Blake replied, sighing deeply."Owen might seem like a nice guy, but he's not. Did you know he used to be in the army before he got promoted to his current position? His hands are stained with blood. In other words, he's eliminated many enemies to climb to the top. You need to be cautious around him. Once you get too involved with him, it won't be easy to distance yourself. Jayson won't be able to protect you if things go wrong. Since Jayson doesn't own World Group, his power is limited, and he's wary of Owen. But I'm not afraid of him. I can help you get rid of him."The more Blake spoke, the deeper Eva dug into her heels. His criticism of her uncle felt like a personal attack, and irritation flared in her eyes."Enough!" Eva cut him off. "Blake Torres, in case you've forgotten, you're just my ex-husband. What gives you the right to tell me to steer clear of a man
"You sent for me, Blake. What's the matter? I haven't caused any trouble, have I?"Marian stood before her brother, arms folded defiantly, her gaze challenging.Blake stared at her intently, his eyes narrowing as he studied her face. After a tense silence, he finally spoke, his voice cold and unyielding. "Don't lie to me, Marian. Where did you get the dress and jewelry you're wearing?"Marian's breath caught in her throat at his accusation. She quickly looked away, hoping to hide the flicker of fear in her eyes. She forced herself to remain composed, despite the rising panic."What are you talking about, Blake?" she replied, feigning innocence. "As I said before, Tally gave them to me."Blake's expression hardened, clearly not buying her story. "Marian, I know Tally's can't buy those dress and jewelry. They're too expensive. I need the truth."She felt her heart race as she tried to come up with a convincing lie. "I... I borrowed them from a friend," she stammered, her voice lacking i