Anastasia always had her doubts about Sandy; she knew that beneath her sister''s innocent facade was a tougher character. But hearing Sandy speak with such authority and determination was something else it was the first time Anastasia truly saw the real Sandy. Sandy was anything but ordinary.


    Anastasia spent her afternoon tucked away in a cozy corner of the event hall, overhearing snippets about Sandy''s venture into social media marketing-a booming industry that had quickly boosted the Morton Group''s value. Or more urately, Sandy''s personal wealth. Through Sandy''s phone conversations, Anastasia pieced together her sister''s clever maneuvering. Sean was the public face of the social mediapany, but Sandy was the one reaping the profits. This setup meant that if anything went wrong, Sean would take the fall, leaving Sandy unscathed. It was a crafty n.


    Anastasia had to admit, she admired Sandy''s resilience. Years spent in the hospital hadn''t dulled her spirit; if anything, they sharpened her determination and strategic mind.


    Sean, meanwhile, was a different story. Although Anastasia hadn''t interacted with him much, it was obvious he didn''t have Sandy''s cunning. Perhaps he willingly yed the role of the supportive brother in Sandy''s ns, prioritizing family ties over logic. After Sandy left the event, Anastasia freshened up and noticed Sandy''s absence in the grand hall.


    "Ana, I''ve got to head out," Monica said as she approached, concern in her voice. "My mom twisted her ankle, and I need to check on her."


    Anastasia nodded sympathetically. "I hope it''s nothing serious?"


    "Just a twist, from what I hear," Monica replied before heading out.


    With Monica gone, Anastasia went looking for Tavon, her father, who was enjoying a rare moment of nostalgia with old friends and business acquaintances. Tavon, who had been sidelined by his own children in Willowbrook''s business scene, was soaking up the attention at today''s gathering, reminiscent of his days as a top executive at Morton Group.


    Anastasia found him deep in conversation with Mr. Robert, an oil tycoon. "Hey, darling,e over here," Tavon called out, introducing her. "This is Mr. Robert. We''re practically from the same era-what a small world!"


    Tavon was basking in the glow of his son-inw''s connections, a refreshing change from his usual business circles.


    "Uncle Rob, it''s a pleasure. Herman was just singing your praises earlier, mentioning how you''ve been a great help in the past," Anastasia added smoothly, blending truth with a touch of embellishment. She had picked up bits about thepany and its partners during her maternity leave.


    Mr. Robert responded with admiration, not just for Herman''s business sense but also for his excellent choice in a partner.


    After a brief chat, Anastasia pulled Tavon aside to ask about his ns. With a yful grin, Tavon assured her that he''d spare her the difort of hosting Sandy any longer by nning a hotel stay instead.


    Tavon, like Anastasia, was well aware that Sandy''s ambitious nature and ruthless strategies made her a formidable presence, far removed from the sweet image she portrayed.