The crowd watched as a striking couple entered the hall.The man boasted a towering height, his tailored black suit accentuating his refinement and handsome features.The woman on his arm had the kind of beauty that kings would wage wars over. She wore a burgundy dress hugging her perfect figure. Her ruby necklace drew attention to her chiseled collarbones. She was dazzling, yet also surprisingly familiar."Is that Serena? How is that possible?" Lynn asked incredulously.Mollie and Candice couldn't hide their bewilderment, either.Standing nearby, Justin could feel his composure slipping away. He had expected Serena to show up, but he didn't think she would look so stunning. She was a vision, one that made the other socialites and ladies of leisure pale in comparison.He had forgotten how beautiful she was in the first place. There was a time when such a beauty had belonged only to him!Bitterness and resentment welled up in him at the thought. He was starting to regret kicking
"A good heart, huh?" Wilson returned Damian's card to Serena as something flashed in his eyes. He had caught Damian looking at Serena like she lit up his world.The sound of glass shattering cut through the hall, and everyone turned toward the noise. Wilson and Serena glanced over their shoulders to see a man with salt-and-pepper hair glowering at an indifferent Jacob, wine and shards of glass littered by his feet.Noticing everyone's stares, Jacob smiled at the older man and said, "Now, Dad, it's one thing to smash up wine glasses, but to throw a fit like that could shave years off your life."David Smith snapped, "I don't need your false concern!"Wilson led Serena toward the father-and-son duo, grabbing a glass of wine from the tray of a nearby attendant and handing it to David. His courteous tone belied the warning in his eyes as he said, "Now, Mr. Smith, surely your tantrums are better reserved for days when we aren't at a charity gala."David was silent for a few seconds bef
Wilson explained, "Jacob's mom was David's first wife. When Jacob was four, David threw him and his mom out of the family and remarried within a month. As a result, Marcus Smith, David's youngest son, was born."David had planned on letting Marcus take over the family business, but Marcus was a lost cause. On top of being talentless, he also got into fights. He broke his leg during a recent racing incident and is now receiving treatment abroad."Wilson continued emotionlessly, "Several years ago, Smith Group ran into a crisis. David's ailing health kept him from handling it, and with a few senior directors pressuring him, he had no choice but to call Jacob in for help."So while Jacob looked like he was inheriting his birthright, he was actually made to straighten out the company's mess."A wry smile curved Wilson's lips as he concluded, "I reckon David and Jacob never had much of a father-son relationship, to begin with. So, no, they don't get along at all. If Marcus had lived up
"You've got it," Lauren said as she took Serena by the hand and led her away from Justin."Serena, are you only avoiding me because you still care about me?" Justin asked icily, assessing Serena shrewdly as if he could see through her. "If you're really over me, you should treat me like any other guest and talk to me openly instead of hiding from me."Lauren rolled her eyes. "Imagine how busy one would be if one had to make small talk with everyone at a party! Mr. Farrow, did you ever think that Rina isn't so much avoiding you as she doesn't think you are worthy of her time? Must I spell that out for you?"Justin's eyes were like chips of ice. "You certainly have a death wish, don't you, Lauren?"Lauren was about to retort when Aaron stopped her. "Just drop it already. He's not someone you can afford to cross.""Not like I haven't crossed him already! I may as well give him a piece of my mind while I'm at it," Lauren snapped.Serena interjected, "Laurie, this isn't the time for y
Serena saw Wilson walking out when she arrived at the entrance. She smiled at him."Mr. Quade, why did you leave?""It's dance time. I'm looking for a dance partner." He reached out to Serena and bowed like a gentleman. "Ms. Judd, may I?"She slowly placed her hand in his. They made their way to the dance floor.Not far away, Justin shot them an icy glare. He was about to approach them when Candice took his arm.Looking eager, she said, "Justin, let's dance."He gave it some thought and went to the dance floor with Candice in tow.The lights in the brightly lit hall dimmed. When music started to fill the air, men danced with their partners.Wilson put his hand on Serena's waist. He could feel the slight burn on his palm.He looked down at her face, focusing on her nose and traveling south toward her rosy lips.Whenever he lowered his head, he smelled a whiff of light fragrance that did not seem to come from a perfume. It was just how she smelled like.The look in his eyes de
Justin had wanted to retort like he previously did, but he changed his mind. "You're single. Stop giving me lectures."The charity gala ended. As a feast was served on the long table, everyone raised their glasses and started to mingle.Wilson sat with a few CEOs to talk business while Serena wandered off to grab her favorite seafood.Her gaze drifted occasionally to the entrance, but Lauren was nowhere to be seen. How odd! Lauren was always the most eager and enthusiastic when it came to networking, but she seemed to be missing.A snarky voice rang in her ears. "Serena Judd, you're something else."Lynn approached Serena, her high heels clicking. "I was surprised when you readily left Justin. Turns out it's because you've snagged yourself a richer man."Without bothering to look at Lynn, Serena replied, "Do you have nothing better to talk about than relationships?""Drop your act! I saw the way you look at Wilson when you were dancing just now." Lynn smiled mockingly. "You'd be
Candice's eyes widened in disbelief. "Me?"She shook her head. "I didn't do anything."Wilson clicked his tongue. "I have no interest in your poor acting. Why don't you apologize to Serena right now?"Color drained from Candice's face. At that moment, a towering figure appeared before her. She immediately latched onto Justin's sleeve as though holding onto her last string of hope. "Justin, I didn't do it…"Tears rolled down her cheek as she whined pitifully.Justin stared at Wilson grimly. "Why are you giving my girlfriend a hard time in front of everyone?""Did I?" Wilson sneered. "I can't be bothered to waste my time on your girlfriend. I would rather spend that time securing a few major business deals. You think too highly of your girlfriend, Justin."Wilson went straight to the point. "There are security cameras everywhere. Well, the one near us is a little tilted, but I'm sure it captured the incident. Why don't we review the footage to confirm if Candice had deliberately
Wilson squinted like a sly fox. "The manager told me this was a blind spot, but it's all good now because Candice has admitted to it."Candice looked like she was struck by lightning. She dug her nails into her palm, feeling like she had been played.Once Wilson left with Serena, Candice had to endure the looks she received. Yet, no one dared criticize her because she was dating Justin. Still, the looks in their eyes made their feelings clear.Even Mollie couldn't take it. She stomped and complained, "How embarrassing!"Then, she left with Lynn.Candice tried her best to regain her composure. Turning to Justin, she began, "Justin…"She was surprised to find him scrutinizing her. "Justin, do you not trust me?"All he said was, "The event's about to end. I'll have someone drive you home."Her face paled. She muttered, "I-I need to use the restroom."…The ragged breathing of a man and the erotic moans of a woman filled the air of a dimly lit lounge on the second floor.Jacob t
"You broke up with her?" Serena asked.Justin hesitated for a moment before saying yes. Technically, it wasn't a complete breakup yet, but it would be soon.His eyes glistened as he added, "Serena, Candice is no longer in the picture. Come back to me. We'll be just like we were before. Nothing has changed."Serena, however, remained unmoved. "But I don't want to," she said.Justin froze.Serena's expression was cold. "I used to think you were my whole world, but after leaving you, I realized I could live without you. In fact, I'm living a better life without you.""I don't believe it. You loved me so much. How could you let go so easily?" Justin asked."In the beginning, it hurt," Serena admitted. "But now, it's nothing. I got used to it."She chuckled, "Habit is a strange thing. I could get used to loving you, but I can also get used to not loving you."Her calm expression made Justin uneasy.Suddenly, he grabbed her arm and stepped closer. "Love is a feeling on its own. It's
The atmosphere felt unfamiliar to Serena. It almost felt like they were a family.Wilson suddenly asked, "Your cooking skills are impressive. Did you hone them while you were with Justin?"Serena blinked in surprise. "Well... I guess you could say that. He's quite picky, and if something's even slightly off, he won't eat it. Mr. Quade, why are you asking me this all of a sudden?"Indeed, why did he? He was just torturing himself. He became slightly annoyed. "I'm just curious. Is that such a crime?" Wilson asked.Serena was rendered speechless. Why was he angry again?While they ate, Bingo crouched nearby, peering out from under the couch. It seemed to want some food but was too shy to come closer.Wilson threw a piece of beef in its direction. The piece was too large, and the kitten struggled to bite into it. Its efforts were surprisingly adorable.But to his surprise, Bingo swiped the beef out of his hand, nudged his sleeve with its paw, and trotted over to Serena.Wilson was a
When Serena returned to the office, she found Wilson leaning against her desk with a cup of coffee in hand. There was a wide smile on his face."Ms. Judd, welcome back."Serena was speechless. What had gotten into him?"Mr. Quade, are you not angry anymore?""When was I ever angry?" Wilson took a sip of his coffee. "Mrs. Zeller just called me. She couldn't stop praising you and even invited us to her place. She said we should visit whenever we have the chance."From the way she was talking, it almost seemed like she wanted to adopt you as a daughter. Ms. Judd, I didn't know you were so good at winning people over," Wilson said.Serena responded, "I didn't do much. Mrs. Zeller is just a kind person.""This project should be a done deal now. What reward do you want?"Wilson then shook his finger. "Don't refuse. I've always been clear about rewarding and punishing. You've helped me secure such a big contract, so I should reward you."Serena thought for a moment. "Right now, I can
Jessica walked out with a pale face.Justin's expression was dark. He was in a bad mood.Serena had been there too? Had she come to secure this project for Wilson? The thought only deepened his frustration.Candice, observing the scene, couldn't suppress a small smile. She had never liked Jessica. She was just an employee here, yet her ambitions were sky-high, daring to set her sights on Justin!Turning her head, Candice noticed Justin was looking at her. She quickly adjusted her expression and smiled gently. "Justin, did you call me over today for something important?""Yes." Justin took a moment to calm his nerves, then lit a cigarette."The villa is yours now. I'll also cover the expenses for the cake shop. Additionally, I'll transfer two million dollars to your account."Hearing this, Candice immediately felt something was off. "Justin, why are you suddenly—""Consider it a breakup fee." Justin's voice remained cold and detached. "From today on, we have nothing more to do w
The mere thought of the possibility filled Jessica with dread.Seeing her distress, Carla immediately noticed something was amiss. Her smile gradually faded."Ms. Hayes, I have no further business today. You can leave now." It was a clear dismissal.Jessica stumbled over her words. "Carla, this is all a misunderstanding... Please don't tell Mr. Farrow. I'm young, and if Mr. Farrow finds out, he won't forgive me…""Leave. Whatever happens between you and Mr. Farrow is none of my concern."Jessica bit her lip. Feeling awkward, she turned to leave.As she reached the staircase, she glanced over at the surveillance camera. Her eyes widened in shock when she realized something was amiss."Wait... this camera isn't even switched on!"Carla responded coldly, "There are so many cameras in the house, and I'm not used to them. Unless we have many guests, they usually stay off."Jessica immediately turned around, her gaze filled with disbelief as she looked at Serena.Serena simply smil
Serena asked, "Could you still think Carla would prefer you over me?"Jessica was left speechless. Deep down, she knew that Carla favored Serena more. "This isn't over yet. You're celebrating too early."Serena sighed softly. "As a senior, I thought I'd share some career advice. There's a reason why you lost to me today, aside from not being as skilled as I am."Unable to resist, Jessica said, "What?""You've misjudged your own position," Serena spoke slowly. "It's true that you came here with something to ask for, but you also represent Farrow Corporation. "You should maintain your dignity, neither overly humble nor servile. If you continuously lower your stance to please others, people will only look down on you more. Today, you acted like a household staff—cooking and serving Carla. Have you forgotten your role?"In the business world, Justin was even more successful than Charles, and Charles had to flatter Justin. However, Jessica had reduced herself to nothing more than a s
Footsteps echoed from the staircase.Carla, dressed in a gray bodycon dress, gracefully descended.Jessica immediately rose. "Mrs. Zeller.""Serena?" Carla walked directly toward Serena instead. "It's been a while. "I was wondering why Mr. Farrow changed his assistant... I heard you resigned?""Yes, I'm now working at Quade Group," Serena replied.Jessica's smile faltered slightly when she saw how familiar Carla was with Serena. "Mrs. Zeller, do you know Ms. Judd?""Yes. My husband often played golf with Mr. Farrow. Over time, I became acquainted with Serena."Carla patted Serena's hand. "You came at the right time. I have something I can't quite decide on."Still holding Serena's hand, she led Serena upstairs. After walking a few steps, she glanced at Jessica. "Ms. Hayes, why don't you come along too?"The three of them ascended to the second floor, where Carla pointed to two vases in front of her. "Which vase should I use for this entrance area?"Jessica rushed to speak u
Desiree couldn't tolerate another woman stepping into Wilson's world. Even she hadn't been allowed to stay at his place.Serena noticed Desiree's subtle shift in demeanor.Not wanting to get entangled in their matters, she explained politely, "Ms. Stone, Mr. Smith called me last night to pick up Mr. Quade. After I dropped him off, it was difficult to hail a cab near his place, so I had no choice but to stay in the guest room for the night."Desiree's expression finally softened a little. "I'd like to have a word with Wilson alone. You can head inside now," she said.Serena sensibly excused herself. Desiree tugged on Wilson's sleeve. "Wilson, I spoke with my father, and he agreed to let me stay at the Nocturna branch. From now on, we'll be able to see each other more often.""That sounds good," he replied half-heartedly. "You don't seem happy about it.""I'm happy," Wilson said, slipping one hand casually into his pant pocket. "Having another friend nearby is always a good thing
Perhaps it was exhaustion from the night before, but Serena slept through several alarms and didn't wake up until after nine.Startled, she leaped out of bed, hurriedly washed up, and rushed downstairs. Wilson sat leisurely in the spacious living room on the couch, one leg crossed over the other. He seemed to have been waiting for someone.When he saw her, he glanced at his watch. "Still a few minutes to half past nine. No problem. We won't be late if we can get to the company within five minutes."Serena flushed in embarrassment. "Sorry, I overslept.""I thought I'd wake up to the smell of a delicious breakfast prepared by you, Ms. Judd. But instead, the kitchen was as silent as a tomb. You were sleeping so soundly; I didn't have the heart to disturb you."Wilson wore an expression of mock regret. "Truly, I must be the most cowardly CEO in existence."Serena, already accustomed to his sarcastic jabs, remained calm."Well then, Mr. Quade, would you like breakfast first, or sho