As the newly appointed director, Eva was tasked with delivering a speech at the banquet after successfully securing several crucial deals. She took a brief moment to touch up her makeup, stepping out of the ladies' room with a sense of anticipation. However, her thoughts were interrupted by Tally, who intercepted her at the corner of the stairs.Eva, feeling a mix of impatience and curiosity, brushed a stray hair away as she addressed Tally, "Why are you blocking my path, Tally? What's on your mind now?"Tally stood with her arms crossed, her gaze piercing as she confronted Eva, resentment simmering in her eyes."You think you're untouchable just because Blake's got your back, huh?" Tally's words dripped with bitterness.Eva's lip curled in a contemptuous sneer. "Blake protecting me? You must be joking, Tally. Are you implying something I'm not seeing, or is it just your imagination running wild?"Eva's laughter echoed through the corridor, a stark contrast to Tally's simmering anger.
Tally shivered involuntarily, her body trembling in Blake's arms as her face drained of color, leaving her complexion even paler than before."I'm not pulling another stunt," Tally whispered, her voice barely audible above the tumult of emotions swirling around them. "I know that I wronged you, Eva. But please, don't accuse me falsely."Blake's grip tightened around Tally, a mix of concern and frustration etched onto his features. He looked up at Eva, his gaze steely as he issued a warning, the intensity of his tone cutting through the charged atmosphere."Don't go too far, Eva," he cautioned, his words carrying a weight of authority that brooked no argument.Eva's chuckle held a bitter edge as she watched the scene unfold before her, a cruel deja vu playing out once again."For what feels like the thousandth time," she thought, her heart heavy with the weight of past grievances, "I regret ever falling in love with this man who has caused me nothing but suffering for three long years.
Blake hurriedly pursued Eva as she exited the venue, swiftly closing the distance between them. Yet, as he was on the verge of reaching out to her, Jayson intervened, obstructing Blake's path with an unwavering stance."Step back!" Blake's voice was taut with frustration as he addressed Jayson. "I have to speak with Eva.""Ev isn't interested in talking with you now," Jayson reiterated firmly, unmoved by Blake's insistence.Turning his gaze towards Eva, Blake found her retreating figure, a silent dismissal in her stride, ignoring his presence as if he were a stranger.A weight settled heavily in Blake's chest, a mixture of disappointment and resignation.Yet, amidst his turmoil, a voice within reminded him of his lack of entitlement to anger, a sobering realization of his own shortcomings in their relationship.Self-condemnation gnawed at Blake as he acknowledged his own culpability in the situation. Once more, he had allowed doubt to cloud his judgment, falsely suspecting Eva despite
Eva's determination to surpass the competition fueled her motivation as she returned to her company, ready to take on the challenge presented by Torres Group.Back at the helm, Eva wasted no time and dove into preparations for the upcoming bidding process. Her relentless focus and drive to succeed were palpable as she spearheaded the effort within her team.During the inaugural department meeting following her promotion to director, Eva boldly presented her proposal to pursue the smart city project. The room buzzed with excitement at the prospect of undertaking such a prestigious endeavor, each team member eager to contribute their expertise.However, amidst the fervor of anticipation, one individual's demeanor betrayed a sense of discouragement."Are you serious? Torres Group has already secured that crucial project. There's no way we can compete with them. You need to face reality and understand our limitations. Honestly, it's a foolish notion. Quit chasing after shortcuts and immed
Xian's expression soured, a hint of skepticism evident in his demeanor. "I've heard rumors that Eva's dating Jayson, the CEO of World Group. It wouldn't surprise me if that's how she managed to climb the ranks."Blake's gaze hardened, his jaw set in determination. "Regardless of her personal life, Eva's proven herself professionally," he countered. "She's already successfully spearheaded two projects. Currently, she's leading her team in crafting the bidding proposal for the smart city project."Xian and Charles exchanged glances, their eyes widening in astonishment."How did you come across this information?" Charles inquired with genuine curiosity. "You never seemed to take much notice of Eva when you were married."Blake was caught off guard by Charles's question, a flicker of surprise crossing his features. Despite the unexpectedness of the query, he chose to hold his tongue, opting for silence instead.Xian's eyebrows shot up in sudden realization. "Wait a minute! Aren't you the
Ever since Eva boldly declared her intention to vie with Torres Group for the coveted smart city project, she has been tirelessly at the helm, driving her team to labor meticulously and iterate through numerous iterations of the design plans. Eva's exceptional talent and dedication have managed to sway the opinions of everyone within the architectural design department, earning their admiration and trust—everyone, that is, except for Aliza, whose skepticism seems to linger despite Eva's remarkable efforts and achievements.Aliza's discontent with Eva's leadership led her to withhold cooperation.Each time a task landed on Aliza's plate, she voiced grievances about the workload, often attempting to delay assignments. Despite her efforts to evade responsibility, her colleagues couldn't ignore her slackening efforts. Yet, with the department facing staffing shortages, they reluctantly tolerated her behavior. Sensing the leniency, Aliza's work ethic dwindled further, descending into a c
Eva walked into the room, her eyes quickly scanning the crowd. The venue was abuzz with chatter as attendees mingled, but Eva's attention was drawn to the figure sitting alone in a corner. Blake, his presence commanding even in stillness, occupied the seat designated for the Torres Group.As she approached, Eva noted the tension etched across Blake's features. His usually composed demeanor was replaced by a grim expression, hinting at the weight of whatever burden he carried. Despite the lively ambiance of the room, an aura of unease seemed to envelop him.Eva's curiosity piqued. She wondered what could have cast such a shadow over Blake, a man known for his resilience and unwavering resolve.Nicholas David, the seasoned project manager, exuded an air of confidence as he settled in beside Mr. Torres."Mr. Torres, your presence at this press conference is greatly appreciated. Rest assured, we are committed professionals, dedicated to ensuring your confidence in us is well-placed. With
Eva stood amidst the flurry of camera flashes and microphones, her expression composed yet tinged with a hint of weariness. The weight of the reporters' question settled on her shoulders, mingling with the pride of her recent accomplishment.One of the reporter stood up amidst crowd, the room fell silent, all ears turned towards the poised figure of Eva Lowes. "Miss Lowes," the reporter began, her voice carrying a mix of admiration and curiosity, "you've not only led World Group to a resounding victory today but have also etched your name as the youngest and most successful female architect in the industry. With such accomplishments, do you find yourself feeling the weight of increased responsibility? Is stress something you contend with?""Stress is a natural part of any significant responsibility," she replied, her voice steady despite the chaos around her. "But I've always believed that with great power comes not just responsibility, but also opportunity. The opportunity to make a
Xian was still in a daze when the phone rang, pulling him from his thoughts. He blinked a few times, trying to shake off the lingering haze of confusion. As he reached for the phone, he saw Tally's name on the screen, and a wave of curiosity and anticipation washed over him. What could she want at this hour? Xian hesitated to answer the call before finally holding it up to his ear."Xian, have you seen Blake lately?" Tally spoke in a soft voice.Xian felt goose bumps all over his body. "Tally, what do you need from him?""It's been a while since I last saw him. He never answers my calls or comes to visit anymore," Tally whimpered, her voice trembling with worry. "Xian, can you help me find him?"In the past, Xian might have helped Tally without a second thought, but after the harsh lesson Blake had just taught him, he knew better than to risk angering Blake again anytime soon.As Tally sobbed over the phone, Xian tried to calm her. "Please, stop crying," he said gently. "Blake is at
Xian's hand flew to his cheek, cradling the stinging welt where a moment ago, Blake's hand had landed. Disbelief clouded his eyes. "Blake...?" His voice barely a whisper. "Why?"Blake's jaw was clenched tight, his features contorted in a mixture of fury and something else – perhaps regret, perhaps a deeper anger he couldn't articulate. "Don't even ask," he growled, his voice strained.Xian flinched at the venom in Blake's tone. The playful banter and easy camaraderie they once shared seemed a distant memory. Fear prickled at his skin, but a flicker of defiance sparked in his eyes. He would get answers, even if it meant facing Blake's wrath.Xian trembled with fright and didn't dare argue with Blake.Owen stood aside and watched everything with disdain.If Blake hadn't attacked Xian's he would have punched Xian.Eva wasn't in the mood to worry about anything else. Her only concern was Owen's injury.In the heat of the battle, Owen had twisted his wound while attempting to attack Xian
Eva returned home with the gifts she bought after the auction.As if she was Santa Claus on Christmas, she distributed each of the items to her family. Uncle Axel wasn't home, so she had to send his item through international express.The Lowes family was overjoyed when they got the gifts from their girl."Ev, what would you like? Name anything, and I'll get it. you want that stars in the night sky? I'll pick them out of the air for you!" Owen soaked in his confidence, grinning.Eva quickly denied his offer, smilling. "Thank you, Uncle Owen. But it's just a fun little gift. There's no favor you need to return to me. Trust me, I'm saving you trouble."This wasn't fun at all. Gossip about Eva and Owen had stirred drama about them all across the city.If the media found out that owen was sending her a gift, no matter how big or small, their names were guaranteed to be the trending topic before long.She wasn't too worried about her own reputation, but Owen was a government official, and
Eva stiffened, her smile faltering for a fleeting moment. A flicker of suspicion sparked in her eyes as she leveled a cool stare at Brady. "Do you want to take back the painting?"The question hung heavy in the air, laced with unspoken accusation."Goodness, Miss Lowes, the thought never crossed my mind. This painting belongs to you now. It wouldn't be right for me to take it back. Actually, I was hoping we could become friends, if that wouldn't be presumptuous of me.""You want to be her friend?" Jenny piped up, looking at Brady cautiously."Absolutely! Your passion for art is truly refreshing." Brady leaned forward, a spark of genuine interest in his eyes. "You know, my family has a long history in the art industry. We've amassed quite a collection of antiques. If you're ever interested in seeing some unique pieces, I'd love to show you sometime."The intensity in Eva's gaze softened a fraction as she studied Brady's face. A flicker of something genuine – perhaps sincerity,
The situation had escalated beyond control and could no longer be swept under the carpet.The auctioneer looked at Eva apologetically.It would be rude to subject the painting to an authentication test after it had already been sold to Eva.However, failing to do so could damage the organization's reputation and potentially lead to a loss of trust and severed ties with their clients."Do you mind, Miss Lowes?" the auctioneer asked politely, his tone tinged with hesitation.Eva met his gaze and responded calmly, "No, I don't. Go ahead with it."Unfazed by the antagonism from most of the people in the hall, Eva folded her arms and stood confidently. Her poise was unwavering as whispers and skeptical glances filled the room. She knew the stakes were high, but she was prepared to face whatever scrutiny came her way. Her unwavering composure seemed to challenge her critics, daring them to doubt her judgment. The air was thick with tension, but Eva's steady demeanor began to shift the atmos
"Apologies, Mr. Torres. Don't worry, I'll handle the situation and make sure she quiets down immediately."Beads of sweat appeared on Curran's forehead as he pleaded with Blake, his voice shaky and desperate. Turning to Becky, he gave her a stern, warning look, masking the true emotions that churned within him. It was all just a show; deep down, he was elated that his goal had been achieved. The facade of fear and anxiety was a necessary act to maintain the charade, but inside, Curran felt a surge of triumph and satisfaction. His mind raced with the possibilities now open to him, and he relished the success that was finally within his grasp.Eva spent a fortune on what turned out to be a fake painting. Three million and five thousand dollars vanished in an instant! He believed she must have exhausted her entire net worth. The sheer enormity of the loss was staggering, and the thought of such a monumental mistake weighed heavily on him. He couldn't fathom how she had been deceived so e
The auction continued, and they placed a piece of classical oil painting for bidding.It was a portrait of a majestic general and his men fighting bravely with the enemy. The vivid image, strong color tone, and well-defined strokes offered a powerful visual effect.The auctioneer tapped the microphone and announced, "This oil painting, named Victory, is a skillfull work of art of the classical painter, Alexander Yebo, which depicts the victory return of General Theo Clark. Brady Lena has donated this piece of work."Eva fell in love with the painting the minute she saw it, and she soon joined the bidding."One million!""One million and one hundred thousand!" Curran immediately made a bid.He wasn't ready to compromise. The bidding was tense. He was determined to acquire the painting.The price of the oil painting gradually soared as the bidding proceeded. In the end, Eva and Curran were the only bidders left.The two immediately became the center of everyone's attention.Becky was si
"All heads turned toward the source of the voice.When the guests saw Blake seated beside Eva, shock rippled through the room."Oh my God! Is that Blake? Why is he sitting next to Eva instead of in a private room?""He claimed that all the items Eva donated tonight were his.""There's something suspicious here. When they were married, he rarely took Eva out, and she was hardly known by many. Yet now, after their divorce, they're always seen together. It doesn't add up."While a few of them were examining the relationship between those two, the wise ones realized something."The identity of the donor seemed inconsequential; what resonated was that Blake had personally funded the items. His deliberate mention of this detail appeared aimed at refuting the narrative Becky had been spreading, suggesting a motive to assert his influence or protect Eva's reputation amidst the speculation surrounding their relationship post-divorce.""The opportunity to catch the attention of the CEO of Torre
"Hey, cut it out!" he exclaimed, his tone sharp with suspicion. "Something tells me you're trying to stir up trouble here. How on earth can an emerald ring be worth just a dollar? Even a fake one would cost more than that!"Jenny sprang to her feet, her patience finally snapping as she turned sharply towards Becky.Becky sneered disdainfully, her expression dripping with contempt. She eyed Jenny from head to toe before shifting her gaze to Eva, her disdain evident in every glance."In my opinion, this emerald ring is worth no more than a dollar! You should be grateful I'm even bidding on it. The ring came from a country bumpkin who dropped out of middle school. Her possessions are worthless. It's utterly humiliating!"The other guests began to see sense in what Becky said. Those that wanted to bid for the ring gave up.No matter how exquisite the item was, they couldn't overlook the fact that its original owner was a countrywoman. The stigma associated with her background overshadowed