Waymond was never one to speak carelessly. He had already ordered his subordinates to investigate the Fitzroy family's accounts.In his eyes, Laura Fitzroy's biggest mistake was her continued loyalty to her family despite everything that had happened.Still, this was Eamon's family matter, and Waymond had no intention of letting the younger generation get involved.But Aria was no ordinary junior. The moment she heard Waymond's words, she already knew where the problem lay.Jett's phone had been ringing non-stop; most calls were from his mother. Aria wasn't some naïve newcomer to society—she understood what those calls meant. Laura didn't want Jett following her, and there were plenty of reasons for that. But Aria had no interest in meddling in their family affairs. The best way to handle it? Pretend she didn't know.Meanwhile, Laura was too anxious to eat. Jett wasn't answering, and Magdalene's words left her deeply unsettled.Laura had never had an issue with Aria before. In
A single thought consumed Laura's mind—she had to find a way to make her husband dislike Aria.She had always hesitated to play the villain, but when she heard Aria wanted Jett to trade stocks with her, she couldn't hold back anymore.Choosing her words carefully, Laura said, "Eamon, I don't know what Aria is thinking. Could this just be an impulsive decision, like her father back then? Is she dragging people along without much thought?"Of course, I don't think Aria is as calculating as Owen. But people say the stock market and real estate are part of a bubble economy. The Grisham family didn't build their fortune through these channels."She doesn't have anyone guiding her, yet she's rushing into this. It makes me worried."She lifted her gaze. "Honey, you know these markets are different. If something goes wrong, people won't come after Aria—they'll come after Jett. Whether it's financial trouble or a mistake he makes…"She clenched her teeth and pressed on. "I don't want Jett
Laura knew when to back down. "Mom already told me about the awful things my cousin did. You did the right thing to kick him out. I never expect him to be that kind of person.She sighed before continuing. "Please explain things to your father. I only wish he had never set foot in the Grisham residence.""Don't worry. I've already handled it." Though Eamon had said he was hungry, he only picked at his food, taking a few bites of the fish before setting his cutlery down.Laura handed him a bowl of soup, watching him with admiration. She had married into the Grisham family willingly, even knowing Eamon didn't love her. It didn't matter—she had been certain that once they were married, he would treat her well.She hadn't been wrong. Over the years, Eamon had been the perfect husband, smoothing over any trouble for her sake.Satisfied, she turned her gaze toward Maeve Pearson, the housekeeper.Maeve understood her silent command. Finishing her work, she wiped her hands on her apron a
The subordinate sitting beside Apollo caught on to Orion's underlying message. "Mr. Jenson, that sly fox is just playing us. Even if we do what he wants this time, he'll just use the same trick to threaten us again."Apollo flicked the ash from his cigarette. "I've already given him my word. We'll see it through. Leave the rest to me."With that, he led the group to the restaurant.Meanwhile, Jett and Aria arrived at the restaurant's private dining room first. They made arrangements for the specialty dishes to be served later. A knock came at the door before the waiter escorted Apollo and the others inside.Jett quickly stood up in greeting, but when he glanced at Aria, he saw she hadn't moved at all. He immediately nudged her, signaling her to stand. After all, their success depended on these people's help.Apollo took one look at Aria's indifferent demeanor and immediately dismissed the recent rumors about her—they had to be exaggerations. His impression of her remained the sa
Apollo exchanged glances with his subordinates before offering a smile. "You're too kind, Ms. Carver. Ludwiten welcomes all investors."If you do acquire the land, it will benefit the people living there as well. However, you must adhere to the policies and regulations in place."With an air of authority, he continued, "This location has been in the government's plans for years. But these aren't matters we can discuss openly."Even if development proceeds, the well-being of the people must come first. They need to be satisfied with the outcome. That is the essence of the policy."Jett hadn't been particularly interested when Aria first asked him to find connections to acquire land, but hearing this now, his excitement grew. This land was likely an undeveloped area under government planning—an opportunity he hadn't anticipated.The more he thought about it, the more exhilarated he became, stealing glances at Aria throughout the meal.Seeing Jett's enthusiasm, Apollo took another s
Aria's remark took aback Jett. He recalled how the Fitzroys always claimed they were acting in his best interest, insisting that their rigorous teachings were meant to help, not harm. After all, as the eldest grandson of the Grisham family, Jett was expected to be well-rounded in all areas.Aria patted his back reassuringly. "You handled this well, Jett. I acknowledge your efforts. But think carefully—do you truly believe this piece of land is worth acquiring?"Jett hesitated. "Aren't they dismantling the villages in the urban area right now?"Aria's thoughts briefly drifted to Magdalene. She had primarily connected Jett with the Draycott family, and it wouldn't be surprising if she had aligned herself with them.To prevent any sudden interference from Magdalene, Aria decided to be direct. "Yes, it's being demolished, and there are returns. But the cash flow is slow. It could take years before you see any profit."She paused before continuing. "And that's not even the biggest issu
Aria studied the map on the table and spoke without looking up. "But he won't get anything after the demolition. Would you want it to be torn down if you were in his position?"Jett immediately froze when he heard that. Aria continued coolly, "Once it's gone, he'll be just like everyone else. No authority. No control. No village chief title."Jett clenched his fists. "So are we giving up on this land?""Well, we still need it." Aria suddenly thought of a problem. "Did you get Mr. Jenson's contact from the Grisham family or the Fitzroy family?"Jett frowned. "Why can't it be my contact?"Aria smirked and glanced at him. "You studied abroad for years. If you managed to build this many connections with local authorities, one might think you were there for infrastructure development instead of academics.""I…" Jett had never met anyone as sharp-tongued as Aria. Plus, everything she spouted was the truth. He had no rebuttal. "He's connected to the Fitzroy family."Aria nodded. "Goo
Thaddeus took a slow drag from his cigar, narrowing his eyes. "Don't provoke the authorities. From the looks of it, Mr. Jenson is the one pulling the strings. Keep an eye on things and don't trouble those with deep pockets."Hand over the insignificant things and don't make things difficult for them at the start. Understood?"The man across from him rubbed his hands together. "Don't worry. It's not our first time dealing with people like them—we know exactly what to do."Mr. Jenson has brought plenty of outsiders to our village over the past decade, and none of them walked away unscathed. Those spoiled heirs who only know how to flaunt their flashy sports cars? They're nothing to us."Thaddeus nodded approvingly. "We can't let anyone gain leverage over us. One of them is from the Fitzroy family—we shouldn't risk ruining that connection."The man placed his cup down with a dull thud. "Of course. Though, I wonder what tricks Mr. Jenson used to lure them here this time. I also heard
The aged voice was filled with indifference. "It seems like she reached a dead end."Amos sneered. "I don't understand why these peasants like staying in the city. Still, it's fortunate for us. Otherwise, it'd be hard to get our hands on them.""Amos," the person cut in sharply, as if reminding him of his place.Amos only dared to speak so harshly when no one was around. If word got out, his image as the perfect secretary would be ruined.He quickly calmed down and fell silent. The caller didn't press the matter, simply saying, "You need to change the way you speak and act from now on."Since she's already agreed, give her the money. Don't treat her requests as a nuisance. The more requests they make, the less likely they are to cause trouble later."After picking her up tomorrow, send a few men to check if her grandparents need any help. Make sure everything is done properly."Amos nodded. "I understand. You always see the bigger picture. We'll continue looking after them."Poo
"I promise it won't happen again!" To an outsider, it might've sounded like Amos was talking about the cafeteria mishap. But the truth was much darker. What Amos really meant was that incidents like this could continue, just never publicly. Once the media's attention died down, they could go back to doing whatever they pleased. But for now, the performance had to be flawless.The man on the other end of the call seemed satisfied. Though his voice was flat and monotonous, there was a noticeable shift; it was now less stern."She's been manipulating the stock market," he said. "It's caused major damage to several of Luwditen's corporations. We can't let her walk free."Amos removed his glasses, a grim look on his face. "That's exactly what I told the Securities Regulatory Department. It doesn't matter who comes to plead on her behalf. Even if she's the late Mr. Barron's heir, she has to face the law."She's confessed. No one's going to let her off the hook now. You know what jail'
At first, Eden didn't understand what Aria meant. But as night fell, Aria lowered her head and started fumbling with something. When she looked up again, Eden was stunned—Aria looked exactly like her.Eden's eyes widened in disbelief. She'd only seen something like this in movies. But now, it was unfolding right in front of her. So there really was such a flawless disguise technique in the world."Aria, you…""Since I'm using your identity, I have to be you," Aria said with a soft tug of her mask, smiling. She had always been bold, yet precise. Working in the Special Missions Unit meant secrecy was second nature to her—this part was routine."Stay home and rest tonight. I'll leave first thing in the morning. Once I'm gone and the coast is clear, take your grandparents and leave."Eden opened her mouth, unsure of how to respond. She didn't even know when the people watching them would leave."My team will come get you," Aria reassured her. "What's important is that your grandparent
Eden nodded. "Okay. I'll do as you say, Aria."She sent the text just like Aria instructed. Moments later, her teacher replied—everything had been arranged. A car would pick her up from home. There was no need to return to school.A cold shiver ran down Eden's spine. They knew where she lived. They'd been watching all along. Not just the school—they were everywhere.Eden didn't linger at school. Outside the entrance, the main topic of conversation was the officials' arrival for an investigation and the school's public exposure.Everyone knew the cafeteria was a mess. Students had complained countless times, but each time inspectors came, the food improved just long enough to pass the checks. Then it would all revert. It had become the norm—something they were forced to accept.Eden was no different. She just wanted to get home. She needed to see her grandparents. She feared something might happen to them next.Every step on the way home, she stayed alert, scanning her surroundings
Eden listened closely, her brow furrowing. Her teacher wasn't speaking Farshyan. School was no longer a safe place, and Eden didn't know who she could trust. Her classmates were too caught up in mocking Aria to notice anything was wrong, all assuming Eden was lucky to have been chosen.She considered calling the police, picking up her phone, but then paused. What could she even say? That there was a mole at school? Her face turned pale as she remembered how close the principal was to influential people. The authorities might not believe her, or worse, they might be involved.Despite the headlines claiming Aria had been arrested, Eden felt a spark of hope. Aria had promised she'd show up if Eden ever needed her. Taking a deep breath, Eden dialed the number Aria had given her.She didn't expect anyone to answer. But then came a cool, familiar voice. "Eden? What's wrong? Did someone give you trouble again?"Eden's heart soared. "You're not arrested! The news is fake, isn't it? I knew
Lucas gave Amos a sidelong glance. "In that case, let's do as Mr. Lune suggested—punish everyone involved."Announce to the public that Oakvale Academy will be used as a test case. We'll be conducting surprise inspections in all middle and high schools."As for why Mr. Kelsey encountered two completely different scenes during his visits—well, that's easy to explain." Lucas' gaze swept across the room. "Someone tipped off the school before your visit. If any other school received advance notice, every one of you will be under scrutiny."Though Lucas spoke with a smile, none of the seven present—including the three officials—could return it. The smile, in this context, was more chilling than rage. This was a warning. Amos, in particular, felt deeply unsettled. He had come intending to redirect Lucas' attention away from Oakvale Academy. Instead, the incident had blown up. With public attention turning toward the school, transferring Eden would soon become impossible.Still, Amo
Now that Miguel, who was an expert in covering up, was gone, the long-standing issues in the school were exposed.The group stood frozen as they watched a cafeteria worker pour something into a large pot. A closer look revealed it was leftover mushroom soup. But that wasn't the worst of it. The soup reeked, clearly spoiled, yet it was still being reheated for the students.Things only got worse when they entered the kitchen. Hygiene standards were appalling. Not a single chef wore a mask, and some were even smoking while cooking.Amos' expression darkened immediately, even before Lucas could react.One of the chefs noticed them and slammed his ladle onto the counter. "What are you doing in here? Outsiders aren't allowed in the school—don't you know that?"Unlike other schools, Oakvale Academy had somehow always slipped through the cracks during routine inspections. When required to present something, they staged it well enough to fool a camera.So, the staff never expected a surp
Aria understood that this was all the person could offer. The real mastermind would never reveal himself so easily—not even to his most trusted subordinates.Those in power never needed to explain themselves. Those who understood them would earn their favor; those who didn't were destined to remain at the bottom.Her thoughts raced. She needed hard evidence to capture whoever was behind Amos. Baseless accusations would only alert the enemy and push them deeper into hiding.Allowing herself to be arrested had been part of Aria's plan. She needed the mastermind to lower his guard. After all, she had been too visible in Ludwiten lately. With eyes constantly watching her, she couldn't make any real moves. But she couldn't let the incident at Oakvale Academy go unresolved. Her instincts told her it was the key to everything.Before Philip found his family, she had to act—and that meant changing her identity to save Even.Just then, the person's phone buzzed. He turned the screen towa
"Boss!" Weston rushed over the moment he finished dealing with the other officers. Aria arched an eyebrow, flexing her wrists. "He's the mole?""Yes." Weston nodded. The Securities Regulatory Bureau, dispatched by the Securities Regulatory Commission, was tasked with auditing listed companies—particularly sniffing out insider trading and market manipulation.While not everyone in the bureau could be corrupt, it was common for a few to be compromised.The officer who had been interrogating Aria was of a minor rank, but the one Weston had just exposed held real power.Aria looked over at the trembling man. His legs had given out, sending him to the floor. His phone lay discarded beside him as he shook uncontrollably.They had met before—at a Chamber of Commerce meeting. To him, Aria had just been a clever heiress with some market luck, thanks to Landon's influence. No one would have expected her to single-handedly bring down the Draycott family.No one would logically believe