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CHAPTER 162
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2025-04-20 18:25:51
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The Ruthless CEO'S Chosen Wife CHAPTER 163
Jonathan Hawthorne sat down quietly across from Raymond and Michelle. His silver hair seemed dull in the soft light, and his face showed the weight of his thoughts. His hands rested in his lap, and he looked between his son and his daughter-in-law.I tried talking to her, Jonathan began in a low, rough voice. I wanted her to understand. I told her our family has already been through enough pain. She’s lost so much already, he sighed, adding with bitterness, But Eleanor’s pride is stronger than her love for any of us. Raymond tightened his jaw. What’s she doing now?Jonathan paused briefly. She’s calling for an emergency vote with the board. She’s supporting Calvin’s fake documents, claiming you’ve been careless—too caught up in your personal life to lead Hawthorne Enterprises. Michelle sat up straight, her hands clenched into fists. That’s a lie.She knows that, Jonathan said softly. But she’s hoping the board will believe it. Calvin is whispering in their ears and showing fake proof
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-04-20The Ruthless CEO'S Chosen Wife CHAPTER 164
The video came to life on Raymond's tablet, with Victor narrating softly through the speaker. She met him three times. Twice in private homes under fake names. This video is the latest, recorded just four days ago.Raymond and Michelle focused on the footage. In a dim hotel lounge, Calvin sat stiffly, talking to a woman in an elegant trench coat. The camera angle wasn't great, but her profile was clear when she leaned forward.It was Isabella Hawthorne. Michelle gasped. Your sister? Why would she betray you like this? Raymond paused, his jaw tight, and exhaled slowly, his cheek muscle twitching. She's always been angry with me... but this? He rose, tension in his voice. She's helping Calvin build a case against me? Giving him company secrets?Victor's voice returned. Financial details too. I found a transfer—shell companies, offshore accounts—and it links back to Isabella's trust. She's been secretly backing Calvin. Michelle was shocked. But why? She's been upset that I defied them,
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-04-20The Ruthless CEO'S Chosen Wife CHAPTER 165
Tension hung over the Hawthorne estate like a heavy mist, impossible to ignore. Silence filled the air, pressing down with its weight. In the main hall stood Raymond, dressed in a navy suit, his tie not fully fastened. Michelle watched from the bottom of the stairs, arms wrapped around herself, trying to keep everything from falling apart—their lives, their future.You don't have to go alone, she softly said, stepping closer to him. Raymond adjusted his cufflinks and turned to face her, his eyes softening upon seeing her. I have to, he replied. This is more than just a board meeting, Michelle. It's a battle, and I can't risk you getting caught up in it. Reaching for his hand, she insisted, You said we fight together. That means both of us right?He kissed her hand gently, speaking quietly. You've already fought by staying with me when things got rough. Now, I need you to protect what matters most—our children. If they succeed in removing me, they'll come for everything, including this
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-04-20The Ruthless CEO'S Chosen Wife CHAPTER 166
The boardroom, usually quiet and tense, turned chaotic right after Victor spoke. Shock spread through the room like wildfire. People rustled their papers, raised their voices, and moved their chairs noisily across the polished floor. You have no right— Isabella's voice shook as she moved toward Victor, clearly upset. But she stopped when Raymond stood up, his gaze demanding attention. Victor, Raymond said in a calm voice, signaling for everyone to quiet down, thank you. Victor nodded and stepped back. As the noise settled, Raymond turned to the board and spoke firmly. You've all seen the evidence. This wasn't just some mistake—it was a betrayal. Our trust was broken by those who pretended to support our company. He paused, looking around the room. I don't need your sympathy; I need you to think carefully. If you believe I shouldn't lead Hawthorne Enterprises, then vote against me. But know that I will not step down quietly. If I leave, I will expose all the lies here. The room fel
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-04-21The Ruthless CEO'S Chosen Wife CHAPTER 167
The city was shrouded in clouds as Raymond sat back in his chair, feeling tense despite his recent win in the boardroom. His father’s words echoed in his head: She has plans already in motion. Jonathan Hawthorne, Raymond's father, never spoke in riddles. When he gave a warning, it meant trouble. If Eleanor had crossed a line once, Raymond knew a bigger storm was on the horizon, much worse than the one they had just faced. Raymond grabbed his phone and messaged Michelle, We need tighter security at the estate. I'll explain later. Just then, Victor Calloway entered his office without warning, his face unreadable. I shouldn't be here without an appointment, Victor said, holding a sealed envelope, but you need to see this. Actually, Sebastian should. Raymond looked up quickly. Sebastian? Victor nodded. Calvin didn't just upset everyone—he's committed fraud. He forged signatures and altered documents. I’ve verified it. Raymond stood, taking the envelope. And you're certain? Victor looked
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-04-21The Ruthless CEO'S Chosen Wife CHAPTER 168
The morning sun warmed Chloe's skin, but it didn't bring her any comfort. She was pacing nervously in the hallway of the Ashford house, tightly gripping a photograph. Her hands were trembling as she stormed into her father’s study without bothering to knock. Dominic Ashford looked up from his paperwork, startled by her sudden entrance. Where did this photograph come from? she demanded, slamming it down on his desk. Dominic stared at the image for a moment before leaning back in his chair, his expression growing tense. So, you’ve seen it, he said quietly. Chloe’s voice was shaky. You never told me about how she connects to Eleanor Hawthorne. Why did you hide it? He sighed deeply and turned his face away. I wanted to protect you. From what? Reality? she fired back, frustration clear in her voice. You only tell me bits and pieces, Dad. But now—this changes everything. Dominic slowly stood up and moved to pour himself a drink. Your mom and Eleanor were as close as sisters when they wer
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-04-21The Ruthless CEO'S Chosen Wife CHAPTER 169
Michelle felt her breath catch as she saw Isabella Hawthorne—Raymond’s sister —standing in the study of the old Hawthorne estate. Isabella held the photograph Michelle had come to find. The moonlight filtered through the tall windows, illuminating the dust in the air and adding an eerie silence to the room.You shouldn’t be here, Isabella said again. Her voice was calm, but her eyes, the same sharp blue as Raymond's, showed a little nervousness. Michelle moved forward slowly, keeping her guard up. I could ask you the same. What are you looking for?Isabella chuckled dryly and hid the photograph behind her. That’s none of your business. I think it is, Michelle shot back, stepping closer. Especially if it involves Chloe .Isabella’s jaw tightened. You’re in over your head. That photo—she hesitated—keeping it is dangerous.Michelle narrowed her eyes. Then why did Eleanor hide it here? And why are you here alone, going through her belongings? You were never that close to Eleanor, why are y
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-04-21The Ruthless CEO'S Chosen Wife CHAPTER 170
The wind outside was loud and frightening, but Chloe ignored it. Her hands were shaking a little as she hid the frightening message deep in her coat pocket. She couldn’t let Michelle or Sebastian see it—especially now, with the twins just a few days old and their family already overwhelmed.Clarissa needed her help. That was the most important thing for Chloe. She took one last look at the quiet penthouse. The soft glow from the nursery light was still shining in the hallway. Her heart felt heavy as she wanted to stay. She wanted to talk to Michelle and let Sebastian do what he did best—protecting.But the sender of the message was clear: come alone, or Clarissa would vanish forever. Chloe couldn’t take that risk. So, she wrote a short note: I have to do something. Don’t worry. I’ll be back. —C and placed it on the kitchen counter. Her hand hesitated over the paper, but she didn’t have time for goodbyes. She slipped out the back door and vanished into the night.Inside, Michelle woke
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The Ruthless CEO'S Chosen Wife CHAPTER 205
The Hawthorne estate was full of activity that Saturday morning. Gentle music from a string quartet could be heard in the gardens as staff rushed around setting up floral arrangements, hanging golden balloons, and pitching elegant white tents with pastel ribbons. This was no ordinary celebration—it was a double event.Raymond had meticulously planned everything for the special occasion: a grand birthday party for Oliver and Olivia, along with a surprise announcement about Michelle's latest accomplishment. He wanted everyone to know that his wife was not only the love of his life but also a trailblazer in her field.Michelle stood on the balcony outside their bedroom, holding Oliver while Olivia held onto her leg. The twins were dressed in matching birthday outfits—Oliver in a tiny navy-blue suit with suspenders, and Olivia in a lacy blush dress that matched the roses in Michelle’s hairstyle.“They’re going to steal the show,” Raymond said softly as he wrapped his arms around her waist
The Ruthless CEO'S Chosen Wife CHAPTER 204
Michelle kept looking at her phone after the call ended. Her heart was racing, and her mind was filled with thoughts. Adrien Vale—yes, the famous Adrien Vale—wanted to be her mentor. He saw her not just as someone’s wife or daughter-in-law but as a talented architect with her own ideas and potential.Eventually, she turned to her friend Chloe and her sister Millie, her face glowing with disbelief.“Well?” Chloe asked eagerly. “Don’t keep us waiting!”Michelle tried to speak, but it felt unreal. “Adrien Vale wants to mentor me. He saw my work and has offered me a summer mentorship in London.”Millie gasped. “Adrien Vale, the renowned architect?”Michelle nodded, still surprised. “Yes, that one.”Chloe squealed, grabbing Michelle’s hands with excitement. “This is incredible! Many architects dream of meeting him, let alone working with him.”Michelle nodded, wiping her misty eyes. “I don’t even know how he got my portfolio…”Millie smiled warmly. “You’re that talented. Your work stands o
The Ruthless CEO'S Chosen Wife CHAPTER 203
The afternoon sunlight gently warmed the sunroom where Michelle lounged on a wide cream loveseat. Beside her, a folder held important trust documents. Olivia slept peacefully in her crib, thumb in mouth, while Oliver quietly amused himself with a rattle.Across from Michelle, Chloe let out a whistle after finishing Eleanor’s letter. “Wow, Michelle! This is incredible. A trust fund and to support your firm? That's huge!”Michelle tried to absorb it all, her smile a mix of disbelief and happiness. “I know, it feels like a dream.”Chloe leaned closer, resting her chin in her hand. “And Eleanor did this all on her own? Even after everything?”Michelle nodded. “She couldn’t change the past, but she wanted to give something that mattered, something lasting.”Chloe’s eyes gleamed. “Well, she absolutely succeeded. You’re going to create something amazing with Davenport Designs. That name sounds impressive.”Michelle laughed. “It sounds too formal. I want it to feel softer, more like me. I pla
The Ruthless CEO'S Chosen Wife CHAPTER 202
Michelle read Eleanor’s note again, tracing the beautiful handwriting with her eyes. Her heart was a mixture of emotions. It felt so strange. Words from someone she used to fear and misunderstand now felt like a gentle comfort. The apology wasn’t flashy or begging for understanding; it was honest, vulnerable, and human.Did she really write this? Michelle asked quietly, looking up at Raymond, her fingers brushing the paper’s edge. She did, Raymond replied, gently tucking a strand of her hair behind her ear. Jonathan gave it to me today, together with that pocket watch.Michelle's gaze shifted to the watch, which gleamed softly in the afternoon light. It was a symbol from the past, now unexpectedly connecting her to Raymond’s family—not through marriage or duty, but through acceptance. She said I gave you something she never could, Michelle said, her voice filled with emotion. Peace. Family. A future.Raymond nodded, his hand wrapping around hers. And she's right. You’ve given me every
The Ruthless CEO'S Chosen Wife CHAPTER 201
The morning sunlight created long, golden shadows on the private golf course behind a quiet estate just outside the city. Raymond swung his club smoothly, and as the club hit the ball, a soft sound filled the air, sending the ball high into the sky. Nearby, Jonathan watched with his arms crossed, a small smile on his face. You still have that perfect Hawthorne swing, he said as Raymond stood up straight. Raymond chuckled and stepped aside. I had a good teacher. Jonathan grabbed his club and aimed for the green. I wasn't always a good teacher, but I tried. I realized the real legacy wasn't just in the business; it was in the people who kept it going. They played a few more holes quietly, with the occasional laugh shared between shots. There was no stress or business talk—just a father and son reconnecting. At the eighth hole, Jonathan finally spoke. Eleanor has made her decision. Raymond looked up, surprised. She and Isabella are moving abroad to someplace quiet and peaceful. She wan
The Ruthless CEO'S Chosen Wife CHAPTER 200
Raymond sat on the edge of a marble bench outside the café, holding his phone to his ear. Millie's voice was steady, but there was a hint of sadness that lingered in his mind. I’ve been thinking a lot, she said. I really needed to talk to someone who knew me before I lost my way. Raymond looked up at the golden afternoon clouds. I’m here, he said softly. Tell me what’s on your mind.After a pause, Millie continued quietly, I’m not proud of my actions, Raymond. What I did to Michelle and you—I've spent too long being angry and jealous, fighting pointless battles. Now I wonder what I was trying to prove and to whom. Raymond let the silence linger, giving her words space. You have your own journey, he said gently. Seeing it takes strength.She sighed. I wanted you to know I’m trying to be better. For me, not anyone else. Maybe one day, Michelle will see that too. Time can soften things, Raymond replied. And Michelle… She's compassionate. Millie laughed softly, almost surprised. Yes, she
The Ruthless CEO'S Chosen Wife CHAPTER 199
A few months had passed quietly since that emotional night at the Hawthorne estate. Raymond and Michelle finally felt relaxed and happy, as if wrapped in a warm, comforting blanket. The tough times were over, and their days were now filled with love, growth, and new memories. Their twins, Olivia and Oliver, were almost one year old—a big milestone that brought both laughter and a bit of chaos into their lives. But in a fun way.Raymond was deeply involved in a new project at Hawthorne Enterprises. This project was a departure from the stressful boardroom battles of the past. It represented a new beginning, supported by forward-thinking investors who believed in Raymond's vision and leadership. A key figure among these investors was Victor Calloway, a trusted family friend whose support came at just the right moment.On a calm Thursday morning, Raymond was in his office reviewing design proposals when he received a message from Victor. It said, Can we meet? There’s something I think yo
The Ruthless CEO'S Chosen Wife CHAPTER 198
The grand entrance hall of the Hawthorne estate looked like it hadn't changed in years. The ceiling was high, a beautiful crystal chandelier hung from it, and the shiny marble floors all showed the family's rich and powerful history. But now, the air felt different, as if something important was about to happen. Michelle held onto Raymond’s hand tightly as they entered. Her heart was beating quickly with nervous excitement. She had been here before, but now everything was different. She was Raymond’s wife and the mother of his children, standing as his equal. Whatever happened in this meeting, she wouldn't face it alone. Isabella stood near the door, looking small in the enormous room. She no longer wore fancy clothes or makeup. Today, she looked normal and tired. Her blouse was neatly pressed, but her sagging shoulders and lack of perfume made the room feel quieter and more serious. Thank you for coming, Isabella said softly. I wasn’t sure you would. We weren’t sure we should, Ray
The Ruthless CEO'S Chosen Wife CHAPTER 197
Life had taken a pleasant turn for Raymond and Michelle, allowing them to slow down and appreciate the small joys. After experiencing a period filled with stress and constant busyness, they now savored the calm. Their home, once bustling with work calls, had transformed into a sanctuary filled with the gentle songs and laughter of their young children, Olivia and Oliver. The twins were growing quickly, filling each day with new surprises. Olivia loved playing games, especially hiding behind the curtains and jumping out with a loud Boo! to startle her brother, which made both of them giggle endlessly. Oliver, determined to keep up with his sister, had finally learned to walk without tumbling over. He proudly marched around the house, holding random objects like they were treasures. Michelle cherished these daily joys—morning giggles, warm hugs, and the comforting smell of pancakes. Their home had become a world of its own, with each day bringing new firsts. From first words to first
