《The Phantom Heiress Rising From The Shadows》


 Chapter 1

    Chapter 1 Being Kicked Out


    At the Barrett family''s residence in Shirie.


    The grand living room on the first floor buzzed with conversation, guests swirling gasses of champage as they exchanged pleasantries. A towering banner with the words "Wee Home, Beloved Drevent


    across the entrance.


    Meanwhile, in the cramped, airless attic on the third floor, Brenna Barrett was packing her belonging


    indian


    Alec Barrett, Brenna''s adoptive father, stood before her, an envelope in his hand. He set it down wendy before Brenna, his face lined with feigned reluctance, "Brenna, why must ite to this?" he said, "Yes, we''ve found our biological daughter, but that doesn''t mean you have to leave. You know our family''s wealth- taking care of one more person isn''t a burden. If you ask me, you should stay. Your mom and I will treat you no differently than before. But if you''re determined to leave, 1 won''t stop you. Still, your family is barely scraping by. I doubt they can even send a car to pick you up. Take this money-at least let it cover your travel expenses."


    Brenna''s eyes flicked to the slim envelope. She was already certain it held no more than a thousand dors. Without a hint of hesitation, she pushed it back toward Alec, her expression cold. "I don''t need it. My parents have already sent a car for me."


    She scoffed inwardly, What aughable attempt to make her stay. Persuading her to stay while already offering her travel money?


    The Barrett family had taken her in when she was barely past her second birthday, a recement for the daughter Ruby Barrett had lost-a child stolen from the hospital the day she was born. Drowning in grief, Ruby had grasped at the idea of adoption, convincing herself it would ease the ache of her loss.


    But Brenna had never been a daughter for the Barrett family in anything more than name. She had spent her childhood in hand-me-downs from discount racks, scraping by on leftovers while serving as a servant in the Barrett household.


    When she had gotten older, Alec had stumbled upon her natural ir for design. Even her casual sketches outshone those of seasoned professionals, their market value undeniable.


    That was when everything changed. The Barrett family had stopped her from going to school. She had be their hidden asset, locked away to draft blueprints for car parts and even entire vehicles. They knew exactly how much of their wealth was earned by her.


    Without Brenna, they would have never broken into Shirie''s elite circles, never had the means to throw thisvish wee party for their biological daughter, with influential figures from all walks of life attending.


    And now that their fortune had just begun to flourish, they didn''t want to keep Brenna anymore. The Barretts were eager to kick her out of the family, their selfishnessid bare.


    Alec sighed and shoved the envelope into Brenna''s bag.


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    Chapter 1 Being Kicked Out


    He said, "They''ve sent a cat to pick you up? 1 find that hard to believe I looked into your biological family Your parents have two sons, and your only uncle is bedridden, unable to care for himself. They live in a struggling vige-barely making ends meet. They don''t have the luxury toe pick you up. You''ve been living infort here, spending freely. Are you sure you''re ready for that kind of hardship? Just take the


    money..."


    Brenna pulled the envelope out of her bag and ced it on the table with quiet finality. "Goodbye."


    She didn''t notice Isabe Barrett, Alec and Ruby''s biological daughter, slipping something into the side pocket


    of her backpack.


    Without another nce, Brenna hoisted her ck backpack over one shoulder and strode downstairs, leaving


    the Barretts behind.


    Ruby, watching Brenna disappear down the stairs, clenched her jaw. "Look at that! She showed me no gratitude at all. I housed and fed her for twenty years, and she didn''t have a single word of thanks before leaving me? Someone like that is bound to end up begging in the streets!"


    Isabe looped her arm through Ruby''s, her voice soft, almost soothing. "Mom, don''t let her get to you. She never even finished school and was thrown into social circles at ten. How could she possibly have proper manners? She''s walking away from a privileged life now-she''ll be lucky if she doesn''t starve. It''s understandable if she''s in a foul mood. Let me go see her off."


    Ruby frowned, grabbing Isabe''s wrist to stop her. "Why bother? She''s ungrateful. She doesn''t deserve it." "Mom," Isabe said, her smile sweet, "since I came back, Brenna has treated me well. This might be thest time we ever see each other. It''s only right that I say goodbye to her properly."


    She gave the jewelry box in her hand a little shake, her eyes twinkling. "Besides, I have a parting gift for her." With that, she hurried after Brenna, Alec and Ruby following behind.


    "Brenna!" Isabe called out, her voice warm and sweet as she lightly jogged forward. ¡°You''re leaving so quickly? I haven''t given you the gift I got for you."


    She extended her palm, revealing a square red box. Insidey a white jade bracelet, its surface smooth and luminous. It was undoubtedly of high quality.


    Brenna gave it a brief nce. She recognized the bracelet''s good quality-it was probably worth a decent sum. Her voice was cold as she said, "No, thanks. You keep it."


    Isabe''s expression didn''t falter as she nudged the box into Brenna''s hand. "You should take it. I spent over a hundred thousand on this bracelet. If things ever get tough, you can sell it for emergencies. It coulde in handy someday."


    Before Brenna could refuse again, Isabe snapped the box shut and tucked it into Brenna''s backpack herself.


    Just then, a flustered maid rushed over and eximed, "Miss Barrett, terrible news! The engagement ne Mr. Barton gifted you is missing!"


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 Chapter 2

    Chapter 2 used Of Stealing


    Isabe froze mid-motion upon hearing that, the jewelry box still clutched in her fingers as she slipped it into Brenna''s backpack. Her eyes widened in disbelief. "What did you just say? That gemstone ne is a gift from Jordy. It costs one million and eight hundred thousand! It has ten top-tier gems, each hand- selected. I left it on the table. How could it just vanish? Are you sure you checked properly?"


    Brenna observed the unfolding scene intently, her expression impassive. She could already see the setup, the


    neatly arranged trap.


    The servant''s name was Sadie Brown. Her face went ghostly white, her hands visibly trembling. ¡°Miss Barrett, I searched everywhere-every corner, every drawer-but it''s gone. Could someone have taken it?"


    With that, Sadie''s eyesnded on Brenna, suspicion darkening her expression. She didn''t need to say it outright her eyes did the using for her.


    Isabe shot her a sharp look. "What are you staring at? Just because Brenna''s real family is poor doesn''t mean she''d resort to stealing. Anyway, is anything else missing from my room?"


    Sadie hesitated, then swallowed hard. "Yes... The design ns you drew a few days ago. They''re gone too."


    A strange glint flickered in Sadie''s eyes. Without warning, she strode toward Brenna and yanked at a thin chain peeking out from her backpack.


    Isabe gasped, her shock perfectly timed as she took the ne from Sadie''s hand. "Brenna," she murmured, feigning hurt, "how did the engagement ne Jordy gave me end up in your bag?"


    She clutched the piece, looking disappointed. "If you needed money, why not just ask Dad? He has supported you all these years-he wouldn''t mind giving you more money. But stealing? This would break Mom''s and


    Dad''s hearts."


    At that moment, Alec and Ruby walked over. Alec scowled, disappointment carving deep lines into his face. He exhaled sharply, his toneced with disapproval as he said, "I offered you money, and you turned it down- only to do this? If you needed help, you could have said something instead of resorting to this disgraceful behavior. This is really shameful! Why did you do this?"


    Ruby''s temper red instantly. "She must have thought the money was too little! What else could it be? thousand for travel expenses wasn''t enough for her, so she helped herself to something more valuable. One million and eight hundred thousand-her real parents'' entire family couldn''t make that much in a lifetime!" Isabe reached for Ruby''s hand, a pained expression settling on her face. "Mom, please stop. If you keep saying such things, how will Brenna ever face anyone again? I don''t think she did it on purpose-maybe she took it by mistake."


    Alec and Ruby remained silent, though the disdain in their eyes was clear. Inwardly, they had already written


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    Chapter 2 used Of Stealing


    Brenna off as a thief


    Isabe managed a gentle smile, but a flicker of triumph danced in her eyes as she nced at the gathering guests around them. This was perfect. With Brenna marked as a thief, she would never find help from Shire''s upper circles. The Barrett family''s influence would be forever out of her reach


    Isabe turned to Brenna. ¡°Brenna, I''d give you anything, but not this ne. It''s jordy''s engagement gift to me. I know it must be hard-watching him choose me when you were apposed to be engaged to k¨¢m. But feelings can''t be forced, right? Jordy and I love each other deeply. Please, don''te between us if you need money, I''ll give you all my jewelry, okay? Just not this one."


    As Isabe spoke, tears welled in her eyes, slipping down her cheeks like she had just suffered a great injustice


    Seeing this, Brenna let out short, coldugh. What a waste of talent. Isabe should have been an actress with


    her acting skills.


    She believed since they had already staged this drama, it would be impolite not to y along


    Brenna flung a nce at the ne, unimpressed. The chain was thick, the gemstones sizable, but the craftsmanship left much to be desired. The color, cut, and overall design... They were far from top-tier.


    "I wouldn''t be caught dead wearing something this poorly made," Brenna remarked coolly. "There must be some mistake. When I packed my things in the attic, that ne wasn''t in my bag. But I do recall you holding it in your hand earlier, dear sister. Could it be that you identally dropped it into my backpack?"


    She scoffed, refusing to shoulder the me.


    With deliberate calm, she set her backpack on the floor and tipped it over, spilling its contents onto the cold surface. "Go ahead. See if there''s anything else from the Barrett family in my backpack. If there is, take it. I''d rather not carry thebel of a thief."


    Among the scattered items, a blue folder slid into view. Isabe''s eyes widened in feigned shock. "Aren''t these my design drafts for new energy auto parts? Brenna, how did they end up in your bag?"


    She crouched, picking up the folder and flipping through its pages with practiced disbelief. Inside were intricate sketches of mechanicalponents. She looked at Brenna, shaking her head, disappointment etched across her features. "I never imagined you''d stoop this low. You didn''t even finish grade school-what could you possibly want with my design drafts? nning to sell them?"


    Brenna rolled her eyes. She didn''t need to check-she already knew what those papers were. The nuclear- powered cargo shipponent blueprints she had spent an entire night perfecting. How had they be Isabe''s?


    Brenna blinked, suddenly realizing something. Yesterday, Isabe had spent the day seated at the grand dining table, sketching exaggerated designs in an attempt to unt her mechanical expertise. The entire household had seen it. That gave Isabe the chance to frame her now.


    Isabe continued, pointing at the drafts, "You stole them. Just admit it. Since we''re family, I''ll let it slide."


    Ruby stepped closer, snatching the folder and scanning its contents. The moment she saw the sketches, her face twisted with fury. "How could I have raised someone like you?" she said to Brenna. "You are such a disgrace!"


    Brenna remained silent. Her blueprints had clear, unmistakable markings. The title, written in a foreign


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    Didn''t any of them notice that?


    Right there in the lower right corner, her personal anti-counterfeit signature gleamed-proof that no one could


    im her work as their own.


    Brenna faced Alec and Ruby. "You both know what I''m capable of," she stated, her voice steady. "A decade ago, you were running a small auto parts factory, barely making about five hundred thousand a year, living in a modest duplex. At that time, you saw my potential. That''s why you kept me from school and forced me to stay home and design advancedponents for you."

 Chapter 3

    Chapter 3 I Thought Your Design Drafts Were Trash


    Brenna looked at the Barrett family with clear contempt, her expression calm as she revealed the truth to the surrounding guests. "For over a decade, this family has capitalized on my designs-transforming a modest auto parts business into a full-fledged car-manufacturing empire, even securing a public listing. But now that they''ve outgrown their need for me, they''re framing me for theft, all to protect their real daughter. How touching," she


    said with a snort.


    Alec''s face darkened with fury, his voice rising. "What kind of nonsense is this? You barely made it through grade school. How could you possibly understand mechanical design?"


    Brenna held her designs up for the gathering guests to see. "Take a good look. This isn''t a blueprint for new energy auto parts. It''s an advanced cargo ship design. I have no reason to steal from anyone, least of all Isabe"


    Now, the regret hit her hard. In the past, she had been too young to see through Alec''s schemes. She had been too trusting to realize why he had insisted on putting his name on her designs.


    It was painfully clear now-Alec had been setting this up from the very beginning.


    Brenna tapped a line ofponent names on the blueprint. "Read this carefully. It''s in And''snguage, and it trantes to ''nuclear-powered cargo ship propulsion system''."


    Tilting the paper slightly, she pointed to the faint watermark in the lower right corner, which shimmered under the shifting light. "This is my personal mark. You canpare it to Isabe''s so-called ''designs''. Her designs


    are garbage," she said.


    Just as she finished speaking, Sarah Moss, one of the servants, hesitantly stepped forward, holding an identical folder. "Miss Barrett... I thought these were trash, so I threw them in the trash can. These are your design


    drafts..."


    Brenna let out a sharp, mockingugh. "Did you hear that? Even Sarah recognized them as trash."


    Isabe''s face burned with humiliation. She shot Sarah a murderous re before yanking the folder from her hands and flipping through it in a panic. Then, with a furious growl, she mmed it down. "These designs


    aren''t mine!" she eximed.


    Sarah paled, stammering, "I-I didn''t mean to say they were trash! I just... mistakenly thought they were and


    threw them away..."


    She trailed off, ncing around awkwardly and realizing there was no way to rify this without making things


    worse.


    Ruby, unwilling to let Isabe be humiliated any further, immediately shifted the attack back onto Brenna. "Oh, please! Look at yourself. Do you really expect us to believe that someone who never even finished grade school designed a nuclear- powered cargo ship propulsion system? You must have stolen this! People like you bring


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    Chapter 31 Thought Your Design Drafts Were Trash


    nothing but disgrace. Don''t you dare associate yourself with the Barrett family again from now on!"


    Brenna didn''t spare Ruby a nce. She simply flipped open both her own design drafts and Isabe''s, setting them side by side for the crowd topare.


    Alec''s and Ruby''s faces immediately turned dark. Alec clenched his fists, his entire body tense with barely restrained anger. Then, he barked, "Enough with this nonsense! Do you really think you made our family rich? The Barrett family''s sess is built on my and your brother''s hard work you had nothing to do with it! We clothed and fed you for years, and this is how you repay us? You ungrateful brat-get out now!"


    Ruby, feeding off his rage, didn''t hesitate to pile on the lies. "We took you in, gave you everything, spent millions raising you-and you dare act like you''re the victim here? Do you think the scraps of talent you brought to this family mean anythingpared to what we gave you?*


    Brenna''s eyes turned ice-cold. She believed there was no point in arguing with them. She was leaving, and once she walked out that door, the Barrett family''s problems would no longer be hers. "Fine. We will have nothing to do with each other from now on," she said.


    She bent down to grab herptop from the floor.


    However, Isabe was faster. She snatched the sleek ck device before Brenna could reach it, holding it tightly in her grasp. "You''re so stubborn, Brenna. I was kind enough to offer you a way out earlier, but in return, you throw dirt on me and my family? You make mistakes, refuse to apologize, then try to turn it around on us? Thisputer must contain confidential information about the Barrett family. You can''t take it with you!" Before anyone could react, Isabe grabbed a ss of water from a nearby guest''s hand and poured it directly over the keyboard of theptop.


    Without warning, Brenna pped Isabe across the face. Then she grabbed the drenchedptop and immediately began drying it off.


    "How dare you hit me? Isabe gasped, her face twisted with fury. She raised a trembling hand to strike back -only to be pped again by Brenna


    Ruby, a second toote, lunged forward, incensed. "The Barrett family raised you, and this is how you repay us now? By attacking our real daughter?"


    For years, Ruby had treated Brenna as a convenient target for her frustration, an outlet for her anger. But never -not once had Brenna retaliated.


    Ruby wanted to hit Brenna. But something in Brenna''s eyes made Ruby falter, her raised hand hanging mid-air. "Mom, she hit me!" Isabe eximed, clutching her stinging cheek, her eyes burning with resentment.


    Ruby grasped Isabe''s hand, her breath catching at the sight of the ring red imprint on her precious daughter''s face.


    "Does it hurt, Isabe?" she asked.


    Isabe shot Brenna a venomous re, her fury boiling over as she lifted her leg, aiming a kick at Brenna whi she gathered her belongings.


    Brenna dodged instinctively, smoothly. Securing thest of her things, she turned to face them, her voice icy. "Oh? So it hurts? Mom, when you used me as a punching bag all these years, did you ever ask if I felt hurt? You


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    Chapter 11 Thought Your Design Drafts Were Trash


    had no problem beating me senseless, but the second Iy a single hand on your


    precious daughter, you act like you are heartbroken


    Baby & eyes fackered with unease for a moment. Then, she recovered quickly,


    her lips curling in disdain. "And what do you think we took you in for? To pamper you?"


    "So you''re finally admitting what you did to me." Brenna swept a frosty look over


    the Barrett family, then swing her backpack over her shoulder. Without a word, she turned to lea

 Chapter 4

    §à


    Chapter 4 What Do You


    Think


    The July sun zed mercilessly.


    Brenna stood beneath the shade of a tree, waiting for her real family, the Harpers'' car to arrive.


    Half an hour had passed, but no one hade.


    Just then, Brenna''s phone suddenly vibrated with a friend request. A note apanied it. "Hello, I''m Rosie Harper, your sister."


    Brenna epted the request without hesitation, and within seconds, she received a message from Rosie. "Hello, I''m Rosie, your sister. Mom, Dad, and our elder brothers are tied up with work today, so they want you to go to vor Restaurant first. They''ve arranged lunch for you there."


    Doubt crept into Brenna''s mind. Was this some kind of scam? Why send her to a restaurant instead of simply giving her the Harper family''s address?


    But not many people knew she was heading to the Harper residence today. Whoever this was had to be a member of the Harper family.


    A weight settled in Brenna''s chest. Her first day home, and they couldn''t even bother to pick her up? That said enough about how little they valued her.


    She doubted this family would be any better than the Barrett family.


    Another message from Rosie popped up.


    "Brenna, I''ll be waiting for you."


    Brenna responded with a single word, "Okay."


    It was nearly impossible to get a taxi at this hour. With no other choice, Brenna took the bus, getting off at vor Restaurant.


    The establishment was the pinnacle of luxury in Shirie, a favorite haunt of the city''s elite. Dining here meant dropping at least ten thousand dors.


    The moment Brenna pushed the door open and entered the restaurant, a st of crisp, cool air wrap around her, shielding her from the suffocating summer heat. Her lungs felt lighter instantly.


    The restaurant was quiet, nearly empty. No one paid her any attention-except for a waitress who approached her with a polite smile.


    The waitress was a young woman, pretty and probably in her early twenties. She wore a tailored red uniform, exuding professionalism. "Wee, Miss. Are you Brenna Harper?"


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    Chapter 4 What Do You Think


    "Yes. The Harpers asked me to meet them here. Could you tell me which room they''re in?" Brenna''s eyes scanned the space. No one seemed to be waiting for her, which meant the Harper family was likely in a private


    room.


    The waitress kept her polished smile intact, subtly studying Brenna''s casual outfit-a in white T-shirt featuring a video game character,yered under an oversized striped shirt that draped past her frayed denim shorts. A worn baseball cap sat atop her head, partially hiding wavy hair segaked with deep blue.


    Brenna''s skin was smooth, her facial features delicate yet striking. The bold blue lipstick added an edge to her


    look.


    Her voice was crisp, clear, effortlessly drawing attention from nearby tables.


    "Miss, please follow me." The waitress gestured toward a table before continuing. "A woman from the Harper family waited for you here for over an hour but had to leave for something urgent. She''ll be back shortly. She ordered for you, so please sit down. The dishes will arrive soon."


    The table was set for six. Brenna chose the chair facing the door, tossing her backpack onto the seat beside her.


    Momentster, the waitress returned with a ss of fresh orange juice. "Please enjoy. The food will be out shortly," she said politely.


    Brenna nodded and thanked the waitress, though confusion lingered her mind. Wasn''t the Harper family supposed to be struggling financially? Why invite her to a restaurant this extravagant?


    She couldn''t make sense of what the Harper family was up to.


    Pulling out her phone, she sent Rosie a message.


    "I''m here already. When will you join me?"


    Rosie responded soon, "I''m in a meeting right now. Might take a while. Go ahead and eat-no need to wait for


    me."


    A meeting?


    Brenna furrowed her brows upon seeing the message. Weren''t the Harpers supposed to live in a poor, remote vige? If that were true, how was Rosie in a meeting? Could the information she had gotten about the Harper family be false?


    She nced around, noting the semi-private booths by the windows. The upants were hidden from view, but the soft murmur of conversation trickled through the air.


    Soon, the waitress wheeled over a cart, and in moments, the table was filled with beautifully ted dishes- small portions, but meticulously crafted.


    Meanwhile, in one of the semi-private booths, three women sat around a table, their table adorned with and orange juice. A woman in a white dress set her phone down, a faint smile curving her lips. "So? Wh you think?"


    This was Rosie Harper. She was actually Brenna''s cousin. But she was raised by Brenna''s parents after her own parents had passed away. Brenna''s parents treated her like she was their daughter.


    Sitting across from her were her friends, Sylvie Higgins and Vivian Morrison, both from prominent families.


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    Their outfits were impable, their makeup wless, their table manners practiced to perfection. The three had been inseparable since childhood, sharing everything.


    Sylvie tilted her head. "Her face is decent, but her fashion sense is a disaster," she remarked, snapping a few photos. She then arranged them into a coge.


    The centerpiece of the coge was a photo of Brenna eating, her face blurred out. Sylvie soon posted the photos


    The caption read, "vor Restaurant, spotted a beauty."


    Vivian casually liked the post before saying, "She''s got a bit of a wild look."


    Then, with a teasing smirk, she cast a sideways nce at Rosie and added, "Ethan might find that appealing"


    Rosie''s smile faltered. Thest thing she wanted was for her fianc¨¦ to take an interest in Brenna. The marriage agreement between the Mitchell and Harper families required a Harper member to marry the son of the


    Mitchell family-but it had never specified who.


    She shot Vivian a warning look. "Don''t say things like that."


    Sylvie leaned in, amusement flickering in her eyes. "Vivian''s got a point. Brenna''s got the kind of figure men tend to notice. Imagine Ethan''s reaction if he saw her like this."


    Rosie scowled as she responded, "It doesn''t matter how pretty she is or what kind of figure she has. After today''s events, Ethan won''t spare her a second nce."


    The three shared a quietugh. Sylvie''s eyes flicked toward Brenna''s table, where most of the food had already been eaten. "She''s got quite the appetite," she remarked. "Maybe the Barretts didn''t feed her well? Just look at the way she''s devouring everything-it''s obvious she has never had gourmet dining before." <the phantom="" heiress="" rising="" from="" the="" shadows<="" p=""></the>


    Chapter 5 You R

 Chapter 5

    Chapter 5 You Really


    Shouldn''t Have Come He...


    Sylvie set her phone on the table, tilting the screen toward her two friends as she shook her head in mock disbelief. Clicking her tongue, she smirked. "Who would''ve guessed? The Barretts'' adopted daughter didn''t even finish grade school and started mingling in social circles at ten. Hey, how many boyfriends do you think


    she''s had?"


    Rosie picked up the phone, her eyes narrowing as she read the information about Brenna. There were also photos of Brenna from different periods, her rebellious fashion sense on full disy. Some shots showed her in bold, dramatic makeup, and some showed her surrounded by men-none of the men looked ordinary, and a few were noticeably older than her.


    "Where did you get this from?" Rosie asked, intrigued. "I tried digging into her background before but came up


    with nothing."


    Sylvie leaned back with a proud smile. "I had my brother ask his friend to investigate. Turns out, Brenna has been skipping school and picking fights since she was a kid. At one point, she even had to leave the country because she couldn''t stay here anymore."


    Rosie was stunned, her brows raised. "If she bes a member of my family, won''t that be a disaster?"


    Sylvie''s grin widened. "Isn''t that the best part?"


    After a while, Rosie chuckled. "I suppose it is."


    Brenna ate without pretense, not because she had poor manners but because of sheer hunger. By the time she


    finally felt a lot better. had cleared half the dishes, she


    Yet, the Harper family was still nowhere to be seen. She nced at her phone-it was two in the afternoon. No word from them. She sent a message to Rosie.


    "When are youing?"


    Rosie''s reply came almost instantly. "Sorry, I might not make it today. Just leave when you''re done eating. I''ll cover the bill."


    A slow, knowing smirk crept onto Rosie''s lips as she sent the message. She then swiftly typed another to the


    waitress.


    As if on cue, the waitress who had been attending to Brenna approached her again, moving at a leisurely par


    By now, Brenna had pulled out her bulky ckptop and opened a stock trading page, the screen glowing faintly.


    The waitress, noticing the outdated model of Brenna''sptop, barely concealed her disdain but tried hard to


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    Chapter 5 You Really Shouldn''t Have Come Here In The First ce


    keep her tone polished. "Miss, could you please settle the bill?"


    Brenna blinked, caught off guard. She hadn''t even indicated she was ready to leave, yet the waitress was already rushing her to pay? When had the vor Restaurant''s customer service be so terrible?


    She turned the screen of her phone toward the waitress, showing her Rosie''s message, her voice calm. "My


    friend said she''d handle the bill. Her name is Rosie Harper."


    The waitress didn''t drop her professional smile. "I''m sorry, Miss, but I don''t know your friend. The total is one hundred and nine thousand eight hundred dors. If you''re unable to pay, I''ll have no choice but to call the


    police."


    From the booth, Rosie watched the scene with delight. She was curious to see what Brenna would do. Would she grovel to the Barretts for help? Or would she work off the debt scrubbing dishes for a year? Or perhaps she would resort to a ssic dine-and-dash, flexing the street smarts she was rumored to have?


    Her fingers tightened around her phone as she silently recorded the scene.


    Just then, Vivian and Sylvie sauntered toward Brenna''s table. Themotion had also drawn the attention of nearby diners, who discreetly raised their phones, capturing the scene.


    Vivian''s eyes swept over Brenna with thinly veiled contempt. "Miss, if you can''t afford to eat here, you really shouldn''t havee here in the first ce. This ce is for the elite. You''d be better off at a restaurant more


    suited to your status."


    Sylvie smirked and folded her arms. "The minimum spend here is ten grand. I doubt you make that in a month. Tell you what, my family''s looking for someone to clean the toilets. Work for my family for a month, and I''ll cover your bill. What do you say?"


    Vivian let out a soft chuckle. "That''s generous, Sylvie. If you''d rather not scrub toilets, Miss, I can pay for you instead. No cleaning necessary-just get on your knees and polish my shoes. Then I''ll settle the bill for you." Clicks echoed through the room as more people snapped photos, some already posting the drama online. Seeing this, Rosie was very pleased. The people she had hired were doing their job perfectly, each capturing the scene and sharing it on social media.


    She believed that soon enough, Brenna''s name would be dragged through the mud, and neither the Harper family nor Ethan would want anything to do with her.


    In an attempt to portray herself as the kind person who cleaned up the mess for Brennater, Rosie sneaked out into the scorching heat, closely monitoring the chaos within.


    Vivian turned to the waitress, reaching into her designer bag. "How much is her bill?" she asked, pulling out a thick stack of cash and dropping it onto the table. She looked at Brenna. "Do as we say, and we''ll cover your


    bill."


    The waitress answered promptly, "One hundred and nine thousand eight hundred dors."


    Brenna leaned back in her chair, arms crossed, her eyes shifting between the two women before her. Judging their outfits and attitudes, they were definitely from wealthy families-spoiled, entitled, and clearly here to target her. She hadn''t offended them before, yet here they were, going out of their way to humiliate her. Someone was obviously pulling the strings behind the scenes. "Who do you think you are, barking in front of me? I don''t even know you," she said.


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    Before either Sylvie or Vivian could respond, Brenna nced toward the staircase. A tall man had just arrived, his presence instantlymanding the room. His eyes gleamed like polished obsidian beneath perfectly arched brows. He had a chiseled nose, thin yet defined lips, and a jawline so precise that it looked sculpted by a


    master artisan.


    The man frowned as he surveyed the scene, his handsome face darkened by unmistakable displeasure. It was


    clear he had already pieced together what was happening.


    And yet, even with such a stunning man in the room, Brenna remained unaffected. A handsome face wouldn''t distract her from the fools still yapping in front of her.


    Sylvie and Vivian, not seeing the man behind them, were fuming. Vivian, seething from Brenna''s insult, raised her hand, ready to p Brenna across the face.


    But the next second, a firm hand gripped her wrist, stopping her. Vivian''s breath caught as she turned sharply, ready tosh out-until her eyes locked onto the man holding her back. Her heart sank. Why was Ethan


    Mitchell here?


    "E-Ethan?" she stammered.

 Chapter 6

    Chapter 6 We Were Only Trying To Help


    Vivian stood frozen, confusion shing across her face. Wasn''t Ethan supposed to be in a high-level meeting at


    the Mitchell Group now?


    A chill ran through her as she met Ethan''s cold, indifferent eyes. It was as if she had been plunged into freezing


    water.


    His aura was somanding that she instinctively lowered her eyes, unable to hold his stare.


    From what she knew, Ethan was not just a sessful entrepreneur-he was also one of the most powerful figures in Shirie. As the CEO of the Mitchell Group, a multibillion-dor empire with thousands of subsidiaries, his power was unmatched. Handsome, unmarried, and rich, he was the kind of man socialites dreamed of meeting. A mere conversation with him was considered an honor.


    Just then, a twisted sense of excitement coursed through Vivian. Ethan was touching her-holding her wrist. Even if he was engaged to her best friend, she couldn''t bring herself to care about that.


    But the moment she noticed the growing coldness in Ethan''s expression, her fleeting fantasy shattered.


    She forced herself to think logically. Ethan''s presence here wasn''t unusual-this was a high-end establishment, after all-but what was strange was that he had intervened in this matter.


    Could it be that Ethan had taken a liking to Brenna? Maybe that was why he had stepped in to help her.


    Vivian was confused. No matter how she looked at the matter, it didn''t make sense.


    She looked away with unease and tried to free herself of Ethan''s grasp. "Mr. Mitchell, you''re hurting me..."


    Sylvie sensed the situation slipping out of control. From what Rosie had told her, Ethan was a reserved, aloof man-but he was a kind man. The Mitchell Group donated billions to charity every year, and Ethan himself was known for his phnthropic work. Seeing someone bullied must havepelled him to act.


    Trying to smooth things over, she quickly stepped forward and said, "Mr. Mitchell, I think there''s been a misunderstanding. We were just joking with thisdy. All we meant was that she shouldn''t have dined somewhere she couldn''t afford. We were only trying to kindly remind her of that."


    Watching from the doorway, Rosie held her breath. She could not be caught. If Ethan found out she was behind this, it could jeopardize everything-he might not want to get engaged with her. The consequences would be


    too great.


    Thankfully, after a tense pause, Ethan released Vivian''s wrist. Without a word, he pulled a handkerchief from his pocket and meticulously wiped his fingers, as if scrubbing away filth.


    Vivian stiffened, a sh of embarrassment crossing her face. But she quickly forced a polite smile and tried to


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    exin the situation, saying, "Mr. Mitchell, you see, this woman-she''s dressed in cheap clothes, barely worth two hundred dors, yet she waltzed in here like she belonged. She knew she couldn''t afford to dine in a ce like this, but she still ordered an entire table of food. She was clearly trying to cause trouble here."


    Sylvie nodded eagerly. "Exactly! We only stepped in because we couldn''t just stand by. If she can''t pay, she''ll be


    stuck working here to cover the debt. Honestly, with her skills, washing dishes is probably her only option-and


    it''d take her, what, ten years to pay it all off? So we..."


    Brenna suddenly chuckled, arms crossed. "So let me get this straight. Humiliating me-demanding that I kneel


    and polish your shoes-was for my own good?"


    Ethan''s frown deepened, making Vivian panic. "No, no," she blurted out, "that''s not what we meant! Mr. Mitchell, we were only trying to help. If she can''t pay, we''re willing to cover her bill. All she has to do is work as a maid in our homes to pay us back. But instead of being grateful, she is acting like we are the bad guys here."


    Ethan remained calm. It was as if his earlier intervention had never happened. He could see that Brenna, despite being used, showed no trace of unease. Though her clothes were simple, there was something about her that made him feel like she wasn''t the type to need saving.


    Brenna turned her attention to the waitress, who had been trying to blend into the background ever since Ethan


    arrived.


    Looking at her, Brenna said, ¡°I never said I was leaving or that I was ready to pay. So why did you ask me to settle my bill earlier? Is this how the vor Restaurant treats its customers?"


    All heads turned to the waitress, who paled instantly. She had just been following orders-she had never expected to be thrown into the spotlight like this. She couldn''t afford to offend so many important people or lose her well-paying job.


    Desperate to save herself, she whipped around and pointed toward the doorway. "It wasn''t my decision!" she blurted. "Miss Harper ordered me to do it!"


    Rosie''s heart sank. She hated the waitress for exposing her, but with all eyes now on her, she had no choice but to step inside.


    She forced a smile. "Ethan... I didn''t do that. She''s lying. Why would I ever make things difficult for a stranger?"


    Smirking, Brenna casually held up her phone, her chat records with Rosie in clear view. "See this, Rosie? You orchestrated this. Still going to deny it?"


    Ethan''s eyes flicked toward Brenna''s phone. He scanned the messages, then turned his attention back to Rosie and spoke calmly. "Rosie, she''s your sister. Why would you do this to her? I think you better exin the situation now."


    Rosie''s face morphed through a series of expressions. She didn''t know how to reply for a moment. After a while, she finally said, "This is ridiculous! I was in a meeting at thepany earlier. How could I have nned this-"


    Before she could finish, the waitress stepped forward again, her voice firmer this time. "It was indeed Harper! She''s the one who asked me to do it!"


    As proof, she pulled out her phone, showing Ethan her chat records with Rosie. "Mr. Mitchell, I''m just an employee here. Even if I had a hundred times the courage, I wouldn''t dare mistreat a customer like this."


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    Ethan frowned. So, the vor Restaurant''s staff could be bribed to mistreat diners. This matter alone made the waitress unfit to serve in a ce of this caliber.


    Without a word, he pulled out his phone and sent a message to the restaurant''s


    owner.


    Meanwhile, Brenna took the waitress'' phone, tapping a few times to pull up Rosie''s transfer records. Holding it up for Rosie to see, she smirked. "Well, dear sister, you really don''t want me home, do you?"


    Ethan tossed his used handkerchief into the trash can, his eyes settling on Rosie with indifference as he said, "Care to exin this?"

 Chapter 7

    Chapter 7 You Are Lying


    Rosie could sense Ethan was giving her a chance to exin herself. Anxiety twisted in her gut, but dongide it. a flicker of hope. So what if Brenna, the Harper family''s real daughter, had returned? It couldn''t change a thing Ethan would never choose someone like Brenna over her.


    As long as she handled this well, Ethan would still be hers.


    Moreover, Brenna was an ordinary person who didn''t even finish grade school- what chance did she have with a distinguished man like Ethan?


    She didn''t need to worry too much about Brenna, who was no threat to her.


    With that thought, Rosie''s face brightened, and she gave aposed smile. "Ethan, here''s the situation. My parents and my brothers had important matters to handle today, so they couldn''t pick up Brenna I offered to do it myself, but something urgent came up at thepany."


    She turned to Brenna with a practiced, apologetic look, only to be met with clear skepticism. Brenna clearly didn''t believe her.


    Ethan, meanwhile, remained unreadable, his expression betraying nothing.


    Rosie''s fingers curled nervously as she sped her hands together. She had to be careful-her image in Ethan''s eyes depended on how she handled this.


    With a slight smile, she continued, "I didn''t want Brenna to feel neglected, so I asked my secretary, Lilian, to take care of the matter for me. I made sure to tell her that Brenna is our parents'' biological daughter and that she might face some difficulties adjusting to the situation due to herck of formal education. I told Lilian to take good care of her. I think Lilian misunderstood my intentions and thought I meant to teach her a lesson." She looked at Brenna, her voice deliberately gentle as she said, "I''m so sorry my secretary misinterpreted my words and caused you trouble. I sincerely apologize to you on her behalf. Please, let''s put this behind us."


    To further solidify her innocence, Rosie pulled out her phone. "When I''m in meetings, my secretary handles all my messages. If you don''t believe me, Ethan can confirm it."


    Brenna watched her with a knowing smirk. Rosie was clever, that was certain. With just a few well-ced words, she had effortlessly distanced herself from me. But did Rosie really think she was that easy to fool?


    Brenna tilted her head slightly. "Oh? That''s interesting. Because, if I recall correctly, your secretary had just messaged me, saying she''d take care of the bill. And just after that, the waitress showed up, causing trouble for me. And then, what do you know? You arrived right after. Barely five minutester. Tell me, Rosie... How far is yourpany from here? It''s not just around the corner, is it? How could you have gotten here so fast from thepany?"


    Ethan''s eyebrow lifted ever so slightly. A flicker of admiration shed in his eyes before he turned his eyes to Rosie. He said in a calm voice, "As far as I know, the Harper family doesn''t own apany nearby. Rosie, you are lying."


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    Rosie''s heart pounded. Ethan was siding with a stranger? She knew that if she didn''t regain his trust now, it would be nearly impossible to do itter.


    She exhaled sharply and quickly said, "I was already on my way here earlier! I promised my parents and my brothers I''d pick up Brenna-I couldn''t just leave her waiting! This is just a misunderstanding, Brenna, let me cover the bill for you. We''ll talk properly when we get home. Look around-so many people are watching, Let''s not embarrass our family like this. It''s your first day back. You don''t want to make a bad impression on Mom and Dad, do you?"


    Rosie thought that Brenna, being barely acknowledged in the Barrett household, wouldn''t dare risk offending the Harper family, not when she had nowhere else to go.


    She studied Brenna''s expression, confident that Brenna would take the hint.


    However, Brenna didn''t even flinch. If anything, her expression sharpened. She had spent twenty years in the Barrett family, learning how to read people to survive. She understood what Rosie meant perfectly.


    She had already made up her mind-if the Harpers were anything like the Barretts, she wouldn''t hesitate to leave the Harper family and live on her own.


    Humming softly, Brenna nced up at the surveince cameras. "Well, seeing as there are cameras everywhere, I suppose it''ll be easy enough to get to the truth. Are you still not going to be honest?"


    Turning to his assistant, Nevile ke, Ethan said coldly, "Go and retrieve the surveince footage."


    "No!" Rosie quickly said, flustered. If Ethan saw the footage-if the truth came out- everything would be over for her. She wouldn''t be able to be Ethan''s wife anymore.


    A lump formed in her throat as she realized just how close she was to losing everything. Her nails dug into her palm as she stomped her foot, a look of wounded innocence on her face. "Fine! I admit it! I just wanted to y a prank on my sister. That''s all!"


    She turned to Brenna with a pleading look. "I was only messing around with you! I am sorry. You won''t really hold this against me, will you? I''ll make it up to you in the future-I swear! Isn''t that enough?"


    Brenna arched a brow, unimpressed. She believed Rosie''s apology was empty- she didn''t mean a word of it. She knew Rosie was trying to guilt trip her. She looked away, refusing to be manipted by her.


    Rosie''s jaw clenched. She yanked a bank card from her purse, shoving it toward the waitress. "I''ll pay the bill."


    Brenna''s attitude made her angry. What did she want? An apology on her knees or something? This was too much!


    Rosie was furious now, hating Brenna to the core. Over something so trivial, Brenna had humiliated her in front of Ethan, in front of the entire restaurant. Brenna clearly didn''t care about her or the Harper family''s reputation"


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 Chapter 8

    Chapter 8 Apology


    Rosie couldn''t help but conclude that people with no proper education really were unable to see the bigger


    picture.


    Yet on the surface, she wore a remorseful expression, her voice soft and pleading as she looked at Brenna. "Please don''t take it to heart. I was just trying to joke with you a little. Maybe you don''t know this yet, but I''m actually your parents'' niece. Even though I call them Mom and Dad, I''m still just their niece. Now that you, their real daughter, is back, I can''t help but worry they won''t love me anymore. I swear, I meant no harm. From now on, I''ll treat you like my real sister. Can you forgive me this time?"


    Of course, Rosie wasn''t seeking Brenna''s forgiveness. Her only concern was maintaining a wless image in Ethan''s eyes-kind, graceful, and irreceable as his future wife.


    Only now did Brenna realize that Rosie wasn''t even the Harper couple''s daughter. She had to admit, Rosie was good at changing her attitude. Now that Rosie had framed things this way, she knew refusing to forgive Rosie


    would make her seem petty.


    Brenna said, "Alright. From now on, we''re sisters."


    Then, she flung a nce at Sylvie and Vivian. "But these two just humiliated me. One wanted me scrubbing toilets in her home; the other wanted me on my knees polishing her shoes. What do you think about that?" she


    said.


    Rosie resisted the urge tosh out. Did Brenna have to drag this out? Didn''t she just say she forgave her? Then why was she refusing to let the matter go? When would this end, for God''s sake?


    Ethan''s lips pressed into a thin line, his displeasure evident. He said, "Rosie, as far as I know, Miss Higgins and Miss Morrison are your close friends. You share everything with each other, don''t you?"


    Seeing Rosie remain silent, Ethan continued, his tone sharp, "The Mitchell Group has business partnerships with the Higgins Group and the Morrison Group. But since the Higgins family''s and the Morrison family''s daughtersck character, I see no reason to continue coborating with them."


    Sylvie and Vivian stiffened, their faces draining of color. They exchanged panicked nces but couldn''t openlymunicate with Rosie. For now, all they could do was stare at her in shock.


    Brenna leaned back slightly, watching Rosie, a yful smile tugging at her lips.


    She knew exactly what was happening. Rosie, Sylvie, and Vivian were inseparable, always in sync.


    The three women exchanged silent looks, and after a beat, Sylvie took the lead. She scoffed, her expression dripping with disdain.


    "Miss Harper, I hate to disappoint you, but this was all our idea. Rosie had nothing to do with it. Think about Rosie was always the Harper family''s little princess. But now, suddenly, you''re back, taking away the affection that was hers. If you were exceptional, maybe we''d let it slide. But let''s be honest-you didn''t even finish grade school. You don''t belong in the Harper family. So we decided to humiliate you a little, just to give you a push.


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    We figured you would realize on your own that you don''t belong and just leave the Harper family."


    Vivian folded her arms, her expression equally soug ¡°That''s right. The Harper family is full of exceptional people. Your father runs the Harper Group, your mother is a professor at Laguna Bay University, and your brothers-one is a vice president, and the other is a top-tier celebrity. Even Rosie graduated from a prestigious foreign university with a master''s degree. And then there''s you, a girl who never even finished grade school. Do you really think you fit in with them? You''re like an outsider trying to live among elites. Completely out of ce,"


    Rosie watched the scene unfold with satisfaction. This was perfect. Her two friends had openly humiliated Brenna. Surely, after this, Brenna would be too ashamed to step foot into the Harper family.


    And Ethan? He wouldn''t look twice at a woman with no education.


    Rosie felt reassured-her ce was safe. Whatever obstacles stood in the way of


    her marrying Ethan, Brenna certainly wasn''t one of them.


    Still, she had to y the part of the understanding sister now.


    Rosie sighed dramatically and held up a hand. "Alright, that''s enough. I know you''re just trying to look out for me, but she''s still my cousin-my uncle and aunt''s real daughter. No matter what, she has toe back to the Harper family. After all, she carries the Harper bloodline. I''ll make sure to help her improve so she can catch up with the Harper family''s standards and avoid embarrassing us in high society."


    She then turned to Brenna, feigning sincerity. "Don''t take their words to heart, Brenna. It''s all just a misunderstanding. Let''s move on. I''ll apologize to you on Sylvie and Vivian''s behalf. They didn''t mean any harm. They were just upset for my sake."


    With a subtle nod, she signaled her friends.


    Sylvie barely concealed her irritation as she muttered, "Miss Harper, I''m sorry." Vivian rolled her eyes. "Yeah. Sorry."


    Then, with an exaggerated sigh, Vivian reached into her designer bag, pulled out a bank card, and pped it onto the table. "Here. Let me pay for this meal as a peace offering. Just don''t regret joining the Harper family


    Brenna''s brow furrowed slightly. Regret? What was that supposed to mean? Was


    it going to be that difficult living with the Harper family?


    Then again, considering Rosie was already stirring up trouble for her, she believed the rest of the family might be even more difficult.


    Before Brenna could respond, Rosie swiftly grabbed Vivian''s bank card and tucked it back into her bag. "No, she''s my family. I''ve already wronged her today. How could I possibly let you pay? I''ll handle the bill."


    The waitress arrived with the POS machine, and without hesitation, Rosie settled the bill.


    "Come on, let''s go home now, Brenna," she said.


    Just then, the restaurant manager arrived. He was a refined-looking middle-aged man. He stepped forward and approached Ethan, saying, "Mr. Mitchell, I sincerely

 Chapter 9

    Chapter 9 epting The Apology


    The manager of the vor Restaurant retrieved a deep red card from the pocket of his tailored jacket and presented it to Brenna with both hands, his posture respectful. "Miss, due to our restaurant''s oversight, we have caused you unnecessary trouble. As a token of our apology, we''d like to offer you thisplimentary dining card. With this, you may dine here three times for free, with no limit on the amount. Please, we insist that you ept it."


    Brenna eyed the card for a moment. She had already made up her mind-she wouldn''t be returning here to dine again. The poor service had ruined her experience, and she had no interest in revisiting a ce that treated customers so poorly.


    Before Brenna could respond, Rosie let out a shortugh and said rather


    arrogantly, ¡°Brenna, just take it. Do you know how exclusive this ce is? vor Restaurant isn''t for just anyone. You''ve never been here before, have you? This card will let you indulge like today three more times. What a steal!"


    Sensing the mockery in Rosie''s words, Brenna turned to her, a smirk ying on her lips. "You think the service here is good? Personally, I found it rathercking I''d prefer a food stall on the street," she said.


    The manager''s expression stiffened, but he maintained his polite demeanor, his hands still outstretched, the card unmoving.


    The waitress beside him looked equally tense. The vor Restaurant prided itself on its impable service, yet she had single-handedly ruined a guest''s experience. If Brenna refused to forgive her, she might very well lose


    her job.


    Panic shed across the waitress'' face as she suddenly stepped forward and said to Brenna, "Miss, I beg you to ept it. I was wrong to treat you so poorly. Please ept my sincere apology! If you don''t ept this card, I could lose my job. I''m a single mother with a five-year-old son. I have a mortgage and bills to pay. I can''t afford to be fired. Please, forgive me!"


    Brenna studied the woman for a moment, her expression unreadable, before turning to the manager. She then reached out and took the card, giving it a slight flick between her fingers. "Anyone can use this to dine here three times for free?" she asked.


    The manager and waitress exhaled in relief as soon as she epted it. The manager quickly nodded, his tone respectful. "Yes, Miss. No matter how many dishes are ordered, it will be all on the house."


    nd


    Brenna turned toward the entrance, her eyesnding on a middle-aged female cleaner sweeping beneath the relentless afternoon sun. Without hesitation, she stepped outside, exchanged a few words with the clea ced the card in her hands before returning inside.


    She met the manager''s stunned gaze and spoke calmly. "I can forgive you and ept your apology, but I won''t be returning here to dine again. The card is useless to me. Can shee in and dine here?" She gestured


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    Chapter 9 epting The Apology


    toward the cleaner outside.


    A hush fell over the room. The manager stiffened, caught off guard by her words. Even Ethan, who had remainedposed all this time, looked slightly surprised.


    Rosie, outright stunned, snapped, "Are you insane? You want a cleaner to dine at the vor Restaurant? Do you even understand how ridiculous that is? Even you barely match the standard of this ce with the way you''re dressed, let alone her."


    Brenna wasn''t surprised by Rosie''s reaction. She knew that in Rosie''s mind, people belonged in strict categories


    and were never to mix.


    She turned to face the manager, her voice casual yet firm. "Since the card was given to me, it''s mine to do with as I please."


    She nced at his name tag, which read Mylo Todd. She said, "Mr. Todd, if that cleaneres in to dine, will she be served with the same quality service as your usual guests?"


    Mylo hesitated. He believed Rosie had a point. Since its opening, the vor Restaurant had catered exclusively to the elite. They had never served a cleaner before.


    His eyes flicked toward Ethan, looking for guidance.


    But instead of agreement, he was met with Ethan''s cold gaze-one filled with unmistakable displeasure.


    Mylo straightened his posture and nodded stiffly. "Of course."


    Brenna gave a small nod, then turned and left without another word.


    As soon as she was gone, Mylo''s expression darkened. He turned to the waitress. "Evita, you''re fired!"


    Evita''s face drained of color, her knees nearly buckling. Her voice cracked with desperation as she said, "Mr. Todd, please! I have a child to support. I can''t lose this job! It is my only lifeline."


    Mylo retorted, "Your lifeline? You just cost me mine! That customer just said she won''t being back. Her experience here was terrible, all because of you. I should be holding you ountable for damaging the restaurant''s reputation. And yet, you have the audacity to ask me not to fire you?"


    Evita paled further, panic consuming her. Then she spun toward Rosie and clutched her arm to stop her when she was about to leave. "Miss Harper, please! You have to help me! I lost my job because of you! You need to help me here-


    please, say something to the manager for me!"


    Disgusted, Rosie shook her hand off. "Get lost!"

 Chapter 10

    Chapter 10 How Do You n On Thanking Me


    Outside the restaurant.


    Brenna tilted her head slightly, a small smile ying on her lips as she looked at Ethan, who towered over her.


    "Thanks for today," she said.


    She could have handled the situation on her own, but having Ethan step in had made things easier for her. She figured he at least deserved a word of gratitude.


    Ethan''s lips curled at the corners, his expression thoughtful. There was something oddly familiar about the woman before him, though he couldn''t ce where he had seen her before. That was why he had interfered- otherwise, someone like him wouldn''t usually get involved in other people''s matters.


    But there was something else that intrigued him. Thatptop of hers. A model so rare, only five existed in the world. And he also happened to own one of them.


    He found himself naturally drawn to someone that exceptional.


    "So, Miss Harper, how do you n on thanking me?" Ethan said.


    Brenna hesitated for a beat. She had only been polite, but he seemed to be taking her words seriously. With no other option, she replied, "I''ll treat you to a meal another day."


    Ethan wasn''t one to leave things to chance. Another day could turn into


    "sometimeter", then into "whenever there is an opportunity", which might nevere.


    He pulled out his phone and offered a practical solution. "How about we exchange contact information? That


    way,


    when you


    decide to treat me, it''ll be easier for you to reach me."


    Brenna inwardly scoffed. Was he serious? Did the richest man in the world really need a free meal? And wasn''t someone like him supposed to be drowning in work, too busy to bother with things like this?


    Although she was highly skeptical of his intentions, she still took out her phone and exchanged contacts with


    him.


    "Ouch..."


    Just then, a sudden cry pierced the air. Brenna turned to see Rosie squatting on the ground, clutching her ankle, her face twisted in pain as she gazed up at Ethan with wide, pitiful eyes.


    "Ethan, I identally sprained my ankle,¡± she whimpered. "It hurts so much. Can you take me to the hos Sylvie and Vivian trailed behind, keeping their distance, making no effort to step in to assist Rosie.


    Ethan cast Rosie an indifferent nce before turning back to Brenna. ¡°She sprained her ankle. She probably


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    Chapter 10 How Do You n On Thanking Me


    needs to go to the hospital now..."


    Rosie''s heart soared the moment Ethan spoke, a wave of triumph washing over her. She thought Brenna was trying to seduce Ethan. She was determined to win Ethan back and see who he would choose now


    Convinced that Ethan would take her to the hospital and leave Brenna behind, she felt an almost sharine satisfaction settle in her chest.


    With a flirtatious flutter of hershes, she reached out, attempting to hold onto Ethan for support.


    But Ethan paused. He just studied Rosie for a moment before shifting his attention back to Brenna. His voice softened. "Since she can''t take you home, and you''ve just returned, you probably don''t know the way to the Harper family''s residence. I do. I can drive you there myself."


    Rosie''s expression froze. She clenched her fist in frustration. "Ethan! I sprained my ankle! Are you really not going to help me?"


    Ethan''s eyes swept over Sylvie and Vivian. "Aren''t these two your best friends? Why can''t they take you to the hospital?"


    Sylvie straightened immediately. "Mr. Mitchell, I actually have something important to do right now. I can''t take Rosie to the hospital. You should help her."


    Without waiting for a response, she turned and walked away briskly.


    Seeing this, Vivian quickly said, "Oh, right! I have ns with my boyfriend. We''re going to a car show. Sorry, I need to go!"


    She hurried off, breaking into a jog as if eager to escape.


    With her two friends proving to be so tactful, Rosie felt a sense of satisfaction. Putting on her most pitiful expression, she looked up at Ethan and said, ¡°Ethan, are you really going to leave me like this?"


    Without sparing her another nce, Ethan gave a simple order. "Neville, take her to the hospital."


    Then, without hesitation, he opened the car door for Brenna, gesturing for her to get in before moving to the


    driver''s seat.


    Neville stood frozen, eyes widening as he watched Ethan do that. Did he just see that correctly? The world''s richest man, the head of the Mitchell Group, was going to drive the car for a woman he had just met?


    He''rubbed his eyes. No, he was not hallucinating. This was actually happening.


    As the car window rolled down, Brenna leaned out slightly and shed Rosie a smirk, her voice yful. "Oh well, what can I say? Maybe people just like me."


    She cast a quick nce at Rosie''s ankle-it was definitely swollen. Rosie had really sprained it. But why did it have to happen now of all times? She didn''t know. The luxury car glided smoothly along the road. Brenna scrolled through her phone, replying to messages.


    Just then, Ethan answered a call. ¡°Is Mr. Pierce really unwilling to make a house call?" he asked, refe Cuthbert Pierce, the legendary physician.


    The voice on the other end replied, "He''s over ny. He hasn''t made house calls


    in years. But he has an apprentice a very skilled one. If we can find them, they could treat your grandfather just as well."


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    Ethan''s expression darkened. "No matter the cost, find them. Offer ten million. If they refuse, double it. If that doesn''t work, offer a hundred million."


    The car turned into a residential area just as Brenna''s phone rang. She answered the call, pressing the device to her ear. "What brings you to call me?"


    The voice on the other end was deep and smooth, carrying a quiet authority. ¡°Someone''s offering ten million for you to treat a patient. Interested?"


    Brenna''s fingers tightened slightly around her phone. Her eyes instinctively flicked


    to Ethan. No way. It couldn''t be that much of a coincidence, could it?


    She had just left the Barrett family and could use the money.


    And considering Ethan had helped her today, perhaps she should help him to show her gratitude.


    "I''ll do it," Brenna said.


    She ended the call just as the car pulled up in front of a mansion.


    Ethan didn''t move to get out. Instead, he turned and stared at Brenna. There was something unreadable in his expression, something that made her uneasy. Then, he asked, "Did you know there''s a marriage arrangement between the Mitchell family and the Harper family?"


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 Chapter 11

    Chapter 11 I''ll Give It Some Thought


    inside the car, Brens met the dy gere, her fingers tightening around her phone before she slipped it into her bapak Widow directly addressing his question, she kept her tone polite as she said, "Thanks for


    the ride home


    She reached for the door handle, but when she pushed, the car door didn''t budge. A flicker of unease passed through her as she turned back to him. "Mr. Mitchell, would you mind unlocking the door?"


    Ethan remained sexted, unmoving, His presence felt imposing, not just because of his stature but in the way he carried himself. His long fingers rested lightly on the steering wheel, while his other hand stretched across the console, casually ced on the back of Brenna''s seat.


    A wary feeling crept over Brenna, and she instinctively leaned against the car door, studying his face


    She regretted her decision now. If she had known he had ulterior motives, she never would have epted this


    ride.


    Noticing her difort, Ethan slowly withdrew his hand from the back of her seat, his movements deliberate. "Miss Harper, rx. I just wanted to discuss something with you," he said.


    To Brenna, his words did little to ease her suspicion. A man who refused to let her out of the car even after they had arrived at their destination? He must be up to no good. Her fingers tightened around the pepper spray in her bag She wasn''t the type to start trouble, but if he so much as moved inappropriately, she wouldn''t hesitate to make him regret it.


    She maintained her poise, reminding herself that resorting to force was a final option. Ethan wasn''t just anyone -he was the world''s wealthiest man, wielding immense power. It was wiser not to offend him without cause. Besides, he had just kindly given her a ride home.


    She said, "Mr. Mitchell, I appreciate the ride today. I''ll be sure to return the favor with a meal sometime." Ethan''s voice was calm, almost amused. "That''s not what this is about." He stared into her eyes and spoke evenly. "There''s something you should know-our families have a longstanding marriage agreement. It was arranged by my grandfather and yours. For the past two years, my grandfather has urged me to fulfill that promise and marry a daughter from the Harper family. Given his declining health, he hopes I''ll settle down soon. So, Miss Harper, I''d like you to consider the matter."


    Brenna blinked, processing his words. So that was what this was about. She wasn''t just another Harper daughter-she was the Harper daughter he was expected to marry. The way he phrased it made it soun she had a choice, but his assertive tone suggested otherwise. He wanted her to consider it, but it was clear he expected her answer to be yes. So cocky.


    What if she turned him down? Would that put her in danger?


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    ***m* wweet erpens whe buyed down key, but triam baked wrong both in influence and thear


    She had just returned to her family, and resty, he we bring this matter op if was a bit rude.


    Bull, cha wasn''t reckless the red tall he wen''t going to let hay leave the ear if the outright refissed him


    T''ll give it some thenga, krens eventually evid


    A subtle smile fuckered wross Ethan''s lips as he absorbed her response.


    It wasn''t a rejection if anything, it suggested a level of interest, maybe even approval


    In his mind, give it some thought meant ''not refusing, and ''not refusing meant eventually agreeing


    That meant he could move forward with the proposal


    Perfect-everything was falling into ce for him.


    Satisfied with how smoothly things were progressing. Ethan unlocked the car door, his mood noticeably lighter.


    Brenna exhaled, relieved as she pushed the door open and stepped out. She nced back briefly and thanked Ethan again. He gave her a brief nod before pulling away. Only when his car disappeared down the street did she turn toward the Harper residence.


    Through the iron gate, Brenna took in the sheer size of the Harper estate. The ground was paved with pristine marble, leading to an borate rockery fountain positioned directly across from the entrance. The main house itself stood five stories tall, designed with a ptial elegance, its symmetrical structure exuding grandeur. The interior space had to exceed 1, 500 square meters-far grander than the Barrett family''s townhouse.


    Brenna''s brow furrowed slightly. Hadn''t the Barretts imed the Harpers lived in a poor, remote vige? Yet here they were, settled in one of the most expensive living districts in Shirie.


    And earlier, Rosie had covered a bill worth over a hundred thousand dors without so much as blinking Clearly, money wasn''t an issue for the Harper family. The Barretts'' so-called investigation of the Harper family had been utterly unreliable.


    Brenna reached out and pressed the doorbell.


    She then waited. The bell rang three times, but no one came. Sweat trickled down her temple as the relentless heat bore down on her.


    Was no one home? Even if her parents and brothers were busy, a household thisrge had to have servants. There was no way the house waspletely empty.


    Were they deliberately refusing to let her in?


    Her patience wore thin. She decided to give them five minutes. If no one answered the door by then, she''d leave and nevere back.


    If they couldn''t be bothered to wee her, why should she waste her time on them? Maybe they weren''t much better than the Barretts. Maybe Rosie''s actions reflected the family''s true stance they simply


    want her back.


    Inside the Harper family''s house, a group of maids huddled near the window, peeking toward the entrance.


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    Chapter 11 Gee if some thought


    "Miss Kelly, could that be Miss Harper at the gate? Should I go check?" Julia Collins, a maid in her early twenties, asked the housekeeper, Rachael Kelly, Rachael, a woman in her forties with a perfectly tailored uniform and an air of strict efficiency, shot Julia a


    sharp look


    She waved her phone dismissively. "Don''t talk nonsense. Miss Rosie Harper just called-she''s still dining at vor Restaurant with Miss Harper. They won''t be back for at least two more hours. So whoever''s outside right now isn''t Miss Harper." Julia hesitated. ¡°But if that''s not her, why does she keep ringing the bell?" she asked.


    Rachael scoffed, crossing her arms, "Look at her clothes. She''s dressed worse than we are. Even though Miss Harper hasn''t been living with the Harper family for years, she wouldn''t be that poorly dressed. That person is clearly a beggar. Keep the gate shut, and don''t let her in."

 Chapter 12

    Chapter 12 Are You Deaf


    Rachael nced down at her phone, the recent call log with Rosie still on disy Rose''s inercions to seem clear-leave Brenna outside. Let her stand in the heat, waiting, while the rest of the household goes


    As the Harper family''s housekeeper, Rachael oversaw everything from daily maintenance to staff managemen Though just a servant here, she held more influence than most realized. After all, she had seen with the Harper family for over twenty years, long enough to earn their trust. A single word from her could detectie whether a maid kept her job or was sent packing. And no one in this house wanted to be sent patag


    The maids at the Harper estate were paid generously. They hadfortable amodations, freshly pregge meals, seasonal uniforms, and long holiday breaks. The work was light, and the sry was better fitan most could ever dream of.


    Coming from ordinary backgrounds, none of the servants here wanted to lose their jobs.


    As a result, everyone sought to stay in Rachael''s good graces. Her word was final, and even if they had doubra, they seldom dared to challenge her authority.


    Rachel turned to the servants behind her, her tone sharp. "What are you all standing around for? Get back to


    work!"


    At once, they scattered and busied themselves with their duties.


    Julia lingered, hesitating, before speaking up. "Whenever guests arrive, we always greet them at the gate right away. Today is the day Ms. Harper returns home-wouldn''t it be improper to ignore her like this? And if that really is Ms. Harper out there, and Mrs. Harper finds out we left her waiting, won''t there be trouble?"


    Rachael''s eyes narrowed. "Mind your own business. Look at what she''s wearing. Even we''re dressed better than that. Do you really think someone like her could be Miss Harper? Besides, the Harper family doesn''t just let


    in." anyone


    Worried that the person outside might actually be Brenna, Julia pressed further, saying, "It''s scorching out there. Shouldn''t we at least check whether that woman is Ms. Harper or not? I will go. If it''s not her, I can ask why she''s here."


    Before Rachael could reply, Julia started toward the door. Annoyed, Rachael grabbed her by the arm to stop her. "Fine. I''ll go check. You go upstairs and clean the room we prepared for Ms. Harper. Make sure it''s spotless."


    Julia hesitated but obeyed, heading toward the staircase.


    Only then did Rachael make her way to the entrance.


    The sun was fiery, making the marble pavement gleam under the sunlight. Brenna stood by the gate, ur her skin glowing with some sweat. Rachel opened the door. Though Brenna''s clothes were casual, Rac not help but notice her resemnce to Giselle Harper, her mother.


    ving


    Still, Rachael kept her expression cold, almost condescending "Who are you looking for here? she asked


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    Chapter 12 Are You Deat


    Brenna


    Brenna remained polite. She wasn''t the type to look down on anyone, no matter their stats. To the fastin the Harper family lost twenty years ago. Let me inside now,"


    Rachael scoffed, her eyes scanning Brenna''s outfit-frayed denim shorts, an oversized shirt, and scuffed sneakers. By her estimation, the entire ensemble wasn''t worth more than two hundred dors.


    Even she was dressed better than that. ¡°How dare you pretend to be a Hatper?¡± she sneered.


    Brenna assumed she genuinely didn''t know, so she kept her tone patient. "I really am the Harper family''s


    daughter."


    But she believed something about the situation felt off. Even if she weren''t a Harper, she was still a guest Ye this maid was speaking to her with open disdain. What did that say about the Harper family? Her patience thinned. If this was how they treated people, she wanted nothing to do with them.


    Rachael rolled her eyes. "Impossible. Miss Rosie Harper personally went to pick up Miss Brenna Harper. They should be arriving together. You probably heard about Miss Brenna Harper''s return and thought you could fool us by pretending to be her."


    She gasped suddenly, pointing at Brenna. "Wait! Did you kidnap Miss Brenna Harper?"


    Brenna let out augh, dry and unamused. She then turned, ready to walk away. But before she could take a step, Rachael''s shrill voice rang out. "Help! Someonee quickly! She''s kidnapped Miss Brenna Harper! Stop her from leaving!"


    "What''s with all the noise? Is Brenna back?" A deep male voice cut through the tension.


    Brenna looked up to see a man approaching the gate. His graying hair gave him a refined air, and though age had softened his face, his steps were steady.


    As the man got closer, his eyes settled on Brenna''s face, and his brows furrowed with recognition. He believed she looked uncannily like his sister-inw, Giselle.


    "You are Brenna, right? Come in," he said.


    Rachael stiffened, panic shing across her face. She had failed to carry out Rosie''s instructions. She had missed the chance to teach Brenna a lesson.


    But as a servant, she couldn''t afford to be caught. Forcing a bright smile, she quickly said to Brenna, "Oh, you are Miss Brenna Harper! My apologies-I didn''t recognize you at first. I''m so sorry for making you wait outside for so long."


    The man, Ableson Harper, turned to Rachael and said sharply, "From the fifth floor, I heard the doorbell ringing. Yet you took this long to answer the door. Are you deaf?"


    Rachael quickly lowered her head. "Sir, I was just following orders. We have strict rules against letting in strangers, and I wasn''t sure if she was really Miss Brenna Harper..."


    Ableson snorted, unconvinced. Rachael had been working here for years. She had seen Giselle countles And now, she expected him to believe she hadn''t noticed the resemnce between Giselle and Brenna?


    Still, he chose not to press the matter further in front of Brenna; he didn''t want to make Brenna ufortable.


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    Instead, he turned to Brenna, his tone warm. I''m your eldest uncle, Ableson Harper. Everyone in the family lives here. Your parents are out today but will be back by seven. For now, why don''t you go to your room and get some rest? You can take a shower and change your clothes."

 Chapter 13

    Chapter 13 Get Her An Old


    Dress I''ve Worn


    Brenna was taken aback. The Barretts had imed that her eldest uncle was bedridden, yet here he wa standing before her, perfectly fine.


    More than that, there was something about Ableson that put her at ease. It felt like reconnecting with an old


    friend after years apart.


    Brenna offered him a polite smile. "Hello, Uncle Ableson. I''m Brenna.¡±


    Ableson nodded, ncing over her clothes. "You''ve had a difficult life out there, but now that you''re home, you''ll be well taken care of. If you need anything, just let your parents or me know." He gestured inside. "Come inside. Let me show you around."


    The Harper family''s living room was vast, spanning at least a hundred square meters. Plush leather sofas were arranged neatly, and floor-to-ceiling windows flooded the space with natural light. The polished marble flooring gleamed beneath intricate rugs, and an open-concept dining and kitchen area stretched beyond. A long dining table,rge enough to seat twenty, dominated the dining area, while several chefs worked efficiently in the state-of-the-art kitchen.


    As they walked through the grand home, Ableson said to Brenna, "Your parents and Rosie live on the third floor, and your room is there as well. Your brothers stay on the fourth floor, while my family upies the fifth. Your grandparents have the second floor to themselves, though they prefer the peace of the countryside estate. But when they heard you wereing home, they insisted on returning. They should arrive around six in the


    evening."


    Ableson led Brenna into the elevator, taking her straight to the third floor. He stopped before a door on the east side and pushed it open. "This room has always been yours. For twenty years, it''s been cleaned daily, waiting for your return. Losing you was hard on the family, but now that you''re back, our family is finallyplete."


    Just then, Julia stepped out of the room and said respectfully, "The room is ready."


    Rachael had followed Brenna and Ableson here and said eagerly, "Please allow me to take care of Miss Harper." Ableson, still displeased by Rachael''s earlier behavior, didn''t bother hiding his irritation. He said sharply, "Brenna just got home. Make sure she has everything she needs and she isfortable here."


    Rachael nodded quickly. "Of course, sir. Rest assured, I will take care of her needs."


    Ableson turned and left. The moment the elevator doors closed behind him, Rachael''s smile vanished.


    Her eyes swept over Brenna''s outfit, a knowing smirk ying on her lips. She believed Brenna had clearly spent her life in ordinary surroundings-how could she possibly fit in with the Harpers?


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    Straightening up, she crossed her arms and said bluntly, "Miss Harper, I imagine you''re not used to this level of luxury. Let me tell you-


    "You can leave now!" Brenna cut her off, striding toward the door and looking at her, her expression cold.


    Rachael''s face darkened. "I''m the housekeeper of the Harper family. I run this household. How dare you treat


    me with that attitude?" she said.


    A dry chuckle escaped Brenna. "You''re just the housekeeper. Not the owner. Why are you acting like the owner


    here? Get out."


    Rachael remained rooted to the spot as if the room belonged to her. "Miss Harper, I suggest you think carefully before disrespecting me. You just arrived. You''ll need my help in many ways. This room is 150 square meters, divided into a living area, a bedroom, a dressing room, and a private bathroom. Every necessity in the other rooms was personally arranged by me. You don''t have to thank me-it''s just part of my job."


    After a pause, she continued, "Of course, the dressing room ispletely bare. Mrs. Harper didn''t know your size or your taste, so no clothes were prepared for you. But honestly, considering what you''re wearing now, I doubt you even have preferences. You wouldn''t want to meet the family looking like that, would you? I''ll get you something from Miss Rosie Harper''s closet. Otherwise, you will have to meet the others from the Harper family in your current outfit, and you will be looked down upon."


    As Rachael spoke, she lifted her chin arrogantly, not bothering to hide her disdain.


    Brenna strode over to Rachael, grabbed her arm without warning, and shoved her out into the hallway. Then, she mmed the door shut.


    Rachael stumbled, falling hard onto the floor. A sharp pain shot through her elbow. "How disrespectful! The Harper family is known for their manners, yet you have no respect!" she eximed in anger.


    Just then, her phone buzzed with an iing message from Rosie.


    "How is the situation now?"


    Rachael replied, "She''s in her room, acting all high and mighty. Don''t worry-I''ll put her in her ce."


    "Go to my room and get her an old dress I''ve worn," Rosie responded.


    A slow smirk curled Rachael''s lips. "Understood," she replied.


    Rachael slipped her phone into her pocket and strode into the adjacent room. The dressing room was filled with an array of stylish, high-end clothing, some pieces still adorned with their original tags. As she sifted through the racks, she couldn''t stop thinking that Brenna hade back to steal everything from Rosie-the Harper couple''s love for Rosie, her ce in the family, and even her fianc¨¦.


    In Rachael''s mind, Rosie was the victim here. And there was no way she would let this outsider waltz in and overshadow her.


    Her eyesnded on aundry basket filled with worn clothes. A smirk tugged at her lips. Then she reached into the basket and pulled out a wrinkled, sleeveless ck dress.


    Rachael then went back and pressed her ear against Brenna''s door, straining to catch any sound. The thick walls muted everything, leaving her unsure of what was happening inside. After a moment of hesitation, she carefully pushed the door open.


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    The living room and bedroom were empty. Rachael''s eyes swept the space- Brenna''s clothes and shoesy on the bed, while the bathroom door remained firmly shut. Brenna was probably in the shower.


    Rachel ced the wrinkled ck dress on the bed, then turned her attention to Brenna''s backpack. A quick inspection revealed exactly what she hoped-no spare clothes. Suppressing augh, she took Brenna''s discarded outfit, gathering everyst piece and muttering wickedly, "Let''s see how you enjoy being humiliatedter."


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 Chapter 14

    Chapter 14 This Woman


    Here Is Poor


    A sleek ck MPV rolled up to the entrance of the Harper family estate, the bold "M&G" logo gleaming on its


    side. At first nce, it was clear-a high-end delivery had arrived.


    Two young employees, a man and a woman dressed in stylish attire, stepped out of the vehicle and moved quickly to the trunk. With practiced efficiency, they pulled out two clothing racks packed with luxurious garments-each piece an obvious work of high fashion. The fabrics shimmered under the sunlight, their elegance unmistakable.


    The young man rang the bell, and Rachael promptly came to answer the door, her eyes immediately locking onto the racks of expensive clothing. A sliver of unease crept up her spine. Did Brenna order these? The idea alone was enough to irritate her. But before jumping to conclusions, she decided to confirm first. ¡°Who are


    these clothes for?"


    The young man, cheerful and rxed, was mid-conversation on his phone. The moment he spotted Rachael, he


    ended the call.


    "Miss Harper ced an order about an hour ago. We''re here to deliver it personally," he said.


    Rachael nced at the "M&G" logo again. She knew this brand-it was a favorite of the Harper family members. Each piece was at least tens of thousands.


    That meant one of two things: either Rosie had ced the order, or Audrey Harper-Ableson''s daughter-had. It certainly couldn''t be Brenna. She had just returned, dressed like amoner. There was no way she could


    afford something this extravagant.


    But then another thought struck her. What if Brenna had expected the Harper family to pay for these clothes


    and she was indeed the one who had ced the order?


    Brenna had only just set foot in the Harper household-where did she get the nerve to splurge so extravagantly


    with their money? How audacious!


    Rachael asked cautiously, "Which Miss Harper made the order?"


    The man remained polite. "The one staying on the third floor. The customer requested we deliver them


    personally. Please, lead the way."


    Rachael motioned them forward. "Follow me."


    The third floor? That should mean Rosie had ced the order.


    Inside the elevator, Rachael quickly snapped a few photos of the clothes, sending them to Rosie with a ...f


    message.


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    Chapter 14 This Woman Here Is Poor


    "Did you order these clothes, Miss Harper?"


    Unfortunately, Rosie was in the middle of a doctor''s appointment and didn''t see the message.


    By the time they reached the third floor, Rachael still hadn''t replied. Feeling uncertain, Rachael sent another


    message to Rosie.


    "I will just put them in your dressing room."


    The two employees, however, headed directly toward the eastern side-the direction of Brenna''s room. Rachael didn''t think much because Rosie''s room was just beside Brenna''s. She reached for Rosie''s room''s door, pushing it open. "This way, please."


    But to her surprise, the woman knocked on Brenna''s door instead.


    The door swung open, revealing Brenna wrapped in a towel, her damp hair clinging to her shoulders. A radiant smile spread across her face as she greeted the man and the woman. "Luca, Selene! You arrived so quickly!"


    She had been searching for something to wear, but her dressing room had beenpletely empty-not even a pair of pajamas or underwear had been provided.


    To make matters worse, the single outfit left for her-a ck dress-had clearly been worn and not washed.


    Disgusted, she had tossed it straight into the trash and scrubbed her hands several times for touching it. Rachael swiftly stepped in front of Luca Barnes and Selene Guzman, blocking their path. "You must be mistaken! Miss Harper''s room is over there!" She pointed toward Rosie''s door.


    Luca snapped at her, "Move aside. We''re delivering these to Brenna. And as for the Miss Harper you''re talking about-who the hell even is that?"


    Rachael gasped, her face twisting in outrage. "How dare you talk about Miss Harper like that? You should show some respect!"


    Brenna fixed a re on Rachael, freezing her in ce. A cold shiver ran down Rachael''s spine. There was just something intimidating about the way Brenna looked at her.


    As Luca and Selene wheeled the racks of designer clothing into Brenna''s room, Rachael quickly followed them inside, slipping back into her usual air of superiority.


    She said to Brenna, "Miss Harper, let me remind you-each of these garments costs over ten thousand dors. Can you afford them? There are at least fifty pieces here. If you don''t have the money, send them back. After all, you''ve just returned to the Harper family, and the DNA test hasn''t even been done yet. If it turns out you''re not actually a Harper, the family won''t pay for your reckless spending."


    Brenna didn''t bother acknowledging her. She casually flipped through the rack, plucking out a beige floral dress with a U-neck. Beneath it, she found a pair of white casual shoes thatplemented it perfectly.


    Selene handed over a handbag filled with neatly folded undergarments. "Everything''s been washed and disinfected. You can wear them right away," she said to Brenna.


    Rachael''s eye twitched at theplete disregard for her presence. She turned to Luca and Selene w.. warning. "You two better be careful. She''s not really the Harper family''s daughter. Do you know how much all


    will regret this." of this costs? Half a million at least! If she can''t pay, you


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    Luca nonchntly plucked a garment from the rack, turned over the tag, and held


    it up for Rachael to see "Take a look. This isn''t just standard M&G. This is their elite collection-custom pieces, each one drique to the world. Every single item here is worth over half a million Altogether? Nearly thirty million Rachael stood frozen, her mind struggling to process the number. How could Brenna possibly deserve suck expensive clothing?


    Only Rosie was worthy of that level of luxury.


    Gritting her teeth, Rachael steadied herself. Then you definitely can''t leave these here! This woman here s poor-there''s no way she can afford them. But since you''re already here, there''s no need to waste a trip Miss Rosie Harper could use some new clothes. And since these sizes fit her, let''s go ahead and move everything into her dressing room now."


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 Chapter 15

    Chapter 15 She''Has To


    Take Them From Brenna


    Brenna paid no mind to Rachael''s incessant chatter and carried her newly delivered clothes into the bedroom.


    Luca and Selene, just as uninterested in entertaining Rachael''s presence, shut the door in front of Rachael with little regard, the door nearly hitting her in the face.


    As Brenna changed her clothes, Luca and Selene busied themselves organizing the clothing racks inside the


    walk-in closet.


    The space was massive-easily over fifty square meters-and even after neatly hanging up the luxury garments, the closet still looked half-empty.


    Meanwhile, outside, Rachael stomped her foot as she angrily typed a message to Rosie, updating her on the


    situation.


    She then muttered, "She ordered a ridiculous amount of expensive clothes! I can''t wait to see how she ns to pay for them!"


    She then went downstairs and stationed herself in the living room, smugly waiting for Luca and Selene toe down. Soon enough, they exited the elevator, wheeling out the empty clothing racks. Rachael snorted, convinced they would soone to her, begging for the bill to be settled.


    But to her surprise, neither of them stopped to speak with anyone from the Harper family. They just went straight for the door and left.


    Confused, she hurried after them, calling from the steps, "Aren''t you going to ask for the money for the clothes?" Luca and Selene didn''t spare Rachael a nce. Without a word, they loaded the racks into the MPV and drove


    off.


    When Rosie stepped out of the doctor''s office, she finally checked her ph e. As she scrolled through the messages, she clicked on the pictures Rachael had sent. She gawped in disbelief. "How on earth..."


    The clothes in those photos... They weren''t just expensive. They were M&G''s exclusive, unreleased collection- pieces only seen in private fashion circles.


    She had tried to secure them two months ago, but even with her connections, she was told they were unavable. Yet somehow, Brenna-who had nothing-had gotten her hands on them.


    She was trembling with anger.


    This couldn''t be happening. She had to take them from Brenna


    Jaw tightening, she flung open the car door and got inside, saying sharply, "Drive"


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    to ker nation, the car remained early silent-es engine start, no acknowledgment from the driver Even if the worked for then we stil just an employee How dare he just disregard her like this?


    She snapped for Read up, ready to scold him-only to find the driver''s seatpletely empty Neville was


    sady gone


    Grinding her teeth, she had no choice but to drive herself home


    Brents had only just returned, yet the Harpers absence made it clear she was being disregarded, their antidesetor Bordering on coldness Still she refused to let it affect herposure. Having never known the warmth of a real family in the Barrett household, she held onto a sliver of hope that things might be different with the Marpers


    2


    er reception was disappointing, but she wasn''t ready to write them off just yet. At exactly six o''clock, she came downstairs to the first-floor living room, waiting for the Harper family members to return.


    She scrolled through her phone while she waited, replying to messages.


    Rose was the first to return. Brenna barely looked up before going back to her screen, disregarding Rosie.


    Rosie looked at Brenna Brenna lounged on the leather sofa, her smooth skin illuminated under the soft lighting. Her long, tea-colored curls, streaked with blue highlights, cascaded over her shoulders. She wore a beige floral dress that looked somewhat out of ce. Looking at her, Rosie felt irritated.


    Yet, despite the mismatched outfit, Brenna''s beauty was undeniable-her delicate face captivating even without makeup. Sitting there in quietposure, she looked like she had stepped straight out of a movie.


    Rosie strode over and scoffed, "Didn''t you see me walk in? Why didn''t you greet me? So rude."


    Brenna''s eyes flicked to Rosie''s ankle-wrapped in thick bandages. She had seen Rosie walking just fine earlier. She didn''t look like someone injured at all.


    She snorted inwardly, instantly realizing that Rosie had been putting on an act for Ethan back at the restaurant. I only hear a stupid donkey braying." Brenna said coldly, not even bothering to look up.


    Rosie''s jaw clenched in fury, and she checked the time. It was eight past six in the evening. Her grandparents would be back soon.


    She couldn''t afford to let them see her bullying Brenna


    Brenna''s dress was a featured piece from a world-famous fashion magazine, and she carried it with the effortless elegance of a runway model.


    A thought sparked in Rosie''s mind. She made her way to the fridge, retrieved two ice creams, and extended one toward Brenna.


    "This is handmade by our personal chef," she said sweetly. "No artificial additives. It''s much better than any ice cream you''ve had before. Try it."


    Brenna didn''t even move. She wasn''t foolish enough to fall for Rosie''s sudden kindness; she knew she had ulterior motives.


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    Chapter 15 She Has To Take Them From Brenna


    "No, thanks," she replied.


    At that moment, Brenna noticed a ck sedan roll through the gates. She turned and headed toward the


    entrance


    Just then, the ice cream slipped from Rosie''s hand, sttering against her dress. A thick, sticky stain spread across the elegant material, dripping onto her shoes.


    Limping after Brenna, Rosie headed to the car to open the door.


    Before anyone could even step out of the car, she eximed dramatically, "Grandpa! Grandma! Look at her! I tried to be nice by offering her ice cream, but


    she refused and made a mess! Now my dress is ruined!"


    2

 Chapter 16

    Chapter 16 False


    usation


    Rosie wanted their grandmother, Tessa Harper, to see Brenna as nothing but trouble-a reckless, inconsiderate woman who didn''t belong in the family. If she could paint Brenna in a bad light from the start, it would be much easier to do away with her.


    She pouted, putting on a wounded expression. ¡°Grandma, you have to do something about her."


    To make her case stronger, she stretched out her foot, making sure the thick bandage around her ankle was


    seen.


    Tessa had always been fond of Rosie, her affection deepened by sympathy. Having lost her parents at a young age and been raised by her second uncle and aunt, Rosie had always received a lot more indulgence from Tessa.


    "You should go change. It''s important to stay presentable," Tessa said.


    Despite her affection, Tessa was not blind to maniption. She had lived long enough in this world to know Rosie wasn''t justining-she was stirring up trouble for Brenna.


    Brenna watched their exchange without a hint of emotion, making no effort to insert herself. She wasn''t interested in currying favor. If this family didn''t want her, she would just leave and live on her own.


    From the other side of the car, Luther Harper stepped out. Dressed in a sharp suit, he carried himself with quiet authority. His hair had turnedpletely gray, and his back was bent with age. But his eyes softened when theynded on Brenna.


    He walked slowly toward her, tears gathering in his eyes as he gently grasped her


    arms.


    Brenna met his gaze, her tone polite as she said, "Nice to meet you, Grandpa."


    Luther nodded quickly, his voice warm with affection. "Good girl, you''ve been through so much. But don''t worry; you are home now. Oh, look at you, so thin! We need to make sure you''re eating properly from now on."


    Rosie quickly noticed Luther talking to Brenna. She turned to Luther with an exaggerated pout, pointing at her ankle. ¡°Grandpa, I went to pick Brenna up because I wanted to do something nice for her, but she got mad that I waste and pushed me. That''s how I sprained my ankle."


    She didn''t even try to be subtle. Instead, she cast a smug nce at Brenna, waiting for her reaction. She had spent years crafting her image¨Cthe sweet, caring, well-mannered girl everyone adored. She was kind to the staff, respectful to the elders, and never stirred up trouble.


    Rosie had no doubt that everyone would take her side, never questioning whether she was fals


    Brenna


    Csing


    She red at Brenna, daring her to protest, fully convinced that Brenna''s attempt to defend herself would fall


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    on deaf ears.


    "Let''s see you try to take what''s mine. You don''t stand a chance!" Rosie gloated inwardly.


    Brenna felt she was burning with anger, but she forced herself to stay calm, she needed to see how Luther and Tessa would react. If they sided with Rosie without hesitation, she would have no reason to stay in this family.


    Tessa caught the restraint in Brenna''s eyes and frowned slightly. Something about Rosie''s behavior seemed


    unusual today-almost deliberately provocative.


    "Look at you, all dirty," she said to Rosie. "Shouldn''t you go change now?"


    Rosie wasn''t ready to let the matter go. She folded her arms across her chest, her voice rising "Grandma, she bullied me, and you''re just dismissing the matter?"


    Tessa turned to Brenna, taking her hand in a rare gesture of warmth. "Don''t mind her. She''s not usually like this-I don''t know what''s gotten into her today. Come on, let me have a good look at you. Oh, you do have your mother''s features," she said.


    Just then, two more cars pulled into the driveway. The door of the first swung open before a gorgeous woman rushed out, running straight for Brenna. Tears streamed down her face as she wrapped her arms around Brenna, holding her tightly. "My daughter... I''ve been searching for you for twenty years. You''re finally home. I owe you so much..."


    Brenna froze. She had spent years calling Ruby "Mom", only to be met with coldness and neglect. She had learned not to expect warmth.


    Now, Giselle was holding her like she was something precious, but the embrace


    felt unfamiliar. Brenna stood stiffly, her arms hanging awkwardly by her sides. She was unsure of what to do. The word "Mom" stuck in her


    throat.


    A refined-looking man stepped out of the second car, his eyes locked onto Brenna. Shepard Harper believed he didn''t need a DNA test to confirm Brenna''s identity. She was the spitting image of his wife.


    With a gentle smile, he reached for Giselle''s shoulders and pulled her back slightly from Brenna. "You''re overwhelming her," he said.


    Giselle blinked through her tears and gave an awkwardugh. ¡°I can''t help it,¡± she admitted. ¡°For twenty years, I''ve thought about my daughter every single day. Wondering where she was, if she was safe, if she was eating well... And then I found out she didn''t even finish grade school? It felt like a knife to my heart. How could the Barretts do this to her?"


    Shepard turned to Brenna, looking at her. He wanted her to call him Dad and call Giselle Mom. But she remained silent. His heart sank a little, though he understood her. How could she be expected to call two strangers her parents?


    Rosie also picked up on Brenna''s hesitation immediately. She nudged Brenna with her elbow, her voice thick with disapproval. "Mom and Dad are standing right in front of you, and you don''t even greet them? T''s so rude!"


    Then, slipping smoothly into ce between Shepard and Giselle, she hooked her arms around them both. "Dad, Mom, I was the one who brought Brenna home, but she was so mad about me beingte that she pushed me, and now I have this sprained ankle. And when I offered her ice cream, she threw it at me and ruined my dress.


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    But it''s fine-1 won''t hold it against her."


    She wasn''t even pretending to be nice anymore, even looking at Brenna


    provocatively


    In fact, she was lying outright against Brenna in front of the entire family, just to see whom everyone would


    believe.


    Brenna just shot Rosie a sharp nce and remained silent.


    Giselle gazed at Brenna expectantly. After a long pause, Brenna finally said, ¡°Nice


    to meet you all, I''m Brenna."


    Win a chance to read for free!>>>


    GO NOW

 Chapter 17

    Chapter 17 Apologize To


    Brenna Now


    The Harper family members exchanged uncertain nces, their silence heavy with doubt. Brenna''sck of immediate response seemed like an unspoken admission of Rosie''s words.


    Seeing their hesitant expressions, Brenna knew she needed to rify the situation before they made any assumptions. She hadn''te back just to be falsely used-she wanted to reconnect with her real family.


    Without hesitation, she scrolled through her phone, quickly pulling up the surveince footage from the vor


    Restaurant.


    "You can watch this," she said, holding out her phone. The screen yed the events exactly as they had happened.


    Giselle and Shepard watched. Luther and Tessa also leaned in. Their faces darkened as the video progressed.


    Rosie watched the video as well, her expression twisting with frustration. "How did you even get that footage?" she snapped.


    "Rosie!" Giselle''s voice was sharp with disappointment. Her heart ached-her daughter had suffered for twenty years, only to return and be met with hostility from her real family.


    Tears filled Giselle''s eyes as she took Brenna''s hands in hers. "I should never have let Rosie be the one to pick you up. I should have canceled my speech at the United Nations forum. Nothing is more important than you finallying home," she said.


    Now, she understood why Brenna had kept her distance from them, why she had refused to call them ''Mom'' and ''Dad''. Brenna had been mistreated before even stepping foot inside the house.


    "Rosie, Brenna deserves an apology from you now," Shepard said firmly.


    Ro?ie pouted. "Dad, I already apologized to her at the restaurant! I even went to the hospital because of my sprained ankle. As soon as I got home, I tried to exin myself to her, but she wouldn''t let the matter go! I even offered her ice cream to smooth things over, and instead, she threw it at me. She''s beingpletely unreasonable!"


    Rosie was still being smug. She believed since she had spent more than twenty years in the Harper family, Brenna couldn''tpare to her in the Harper couple''s eyes.


    From the side, Rachael saw an opportunity to speak up. "Yes! Miss Brenna Harper is overreacting. Miss Rosie Harper was only joking-"


    "This is none of your business!" Shepard interrupted her coldly. "Did you finish preparing dinner for Brenna?" Rachael flinched at the reprimand, her resentment toward Brenna growing. She had worked for the Harper


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    Chapter 17 Apologize To Brenna Now


    family for years and had always been treated with a level of respect. Now, because of Brenna, she was being


    dismissed like amon servant.


    "Mom, Dad, Grandpa, Grandma, I really didn''t mean it," Rosie said sweetly, tugging at Shepard''s arm.


    Shepard had always treated her as his own daughter, ensuring she never felt like an orphan.


    Shepard hesitated. He wanted to be firm, but it was hard to be too harsh on the girl he had raised, especially not when he had just found his biological daughter.


    Luther, however, was unmoved. "You crossed the line," he said to Rosie. "Apologize to Brenna now."


    Rosie scanned the elders'' faces, hoping for support, but no one defended her. The video evidence had stripped her of any usible deniability. With no other choice, she clenched her jaw and forced out the words.


    "Brenna, I''m sorry. Please forgive me," she said.


    Brenna smiled faintly, her tone dismissive. "I forgave you a long time ago. You''re immature-I won''t take your actions or harsh words to heart."


    Rosie''s nails dug into her palms. She had been waiting for the perfect moment to bring up Brenna''s extravagant spending, but now, how could she shift the conversation without looking bitter?


    Thankfully, the elders didn''t linger on the issue. They moved to the living room, eager to learn more about Brenna''s life before.


    The more they listened, the more their faces were filled with sorrow, guilt, and quiet anger.


    Brenna studied their reactions, noting how vastly different they were from the Barretts.


    "It''s all in the past now," she said gently. "No need to dwell on it."


    But Tessa couldn''t stop crying. She took Brenna''s hand in hers, pulled out a bank card from her purse, and pressed it into her palm. "Here''s some pocket money. Buy yourself whatever you need," she said.


    Shepard, not wanting to be outdone, handed Brenna another card. "We didn''t prepare anything in advance since we didn''t know your sizes. There''s a hundred million on this-you can buy whatever you like with this."


    Giselle wiped her eyes and said eagerly, "Yes! Tomorrow, I''ll take you shopping myself."


    This was exactly what Rosie had been waiting for. "Brenna likes expensive clothes," she scoffed. "Earlier today, M&G delivered racks of clothes to her room. She has already spent at least thirty million, and she expects us to


    pay!"


    Her voice dripped with usation. "She arrived here wearing clothes that cost less than two hundred, but the second she stepped into this house, she started acting like she owned the ce. Every single piece she bought earlier costs over half a million. Are we really just going to let her do whatever she wants with our money? Our money doesn''t grow on trees! Why is her spending habit like that? Perhaps... She had a rich benefactor before she got here, which is why she''s sofortable throwing money around."


    A heavy silence fell over the room. The Harper family flung puzzled nces at Brenna, whose face ha her eyes turning cold as ice.


    ned,


    Rosie, seeing the reaction she had caused, continued with a satisfied expression, "If she wasn''t used to luxury, how could she possibly spend about thirty million within hours of arriving here? Mom, Dad-she''s back with


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    Chapter 17 Apologize To Brenna Now


    the family now. We can''t let her go astray."

 Chapter 18

    Chapter 18 No One Stands By Rosie''s Side


    Shepard''s face contorted with rage, his hands curling into tight fists. If Rosie weren''t thest remaining child of histe younger brother, he would have dealt with her harshly a while ago.


    The others-Luther, Tessa, and Giselle-all red at Rosie with anger.


    But Rosie stood her ground, chin lifted in defiance. Her smug eyes seemed to be saying to Brenna, "Go ahead, try to fight back. No one will listen to you. This family is on my side-who are you to spend thirty million like you belong here?"


    Just then, a sharp p resounded, the sting spreading across Rosie''s cheek, her head snapping to the side.


    Dazed, Rosie looked up in shock, only to see Luther''s trembling hand still in the air.


    His face had reddened with fury. "Brenna is your family," he said, his voice heavy with disappointment. "How could you say something so vile about her?"


    Tears welled in Rosie''s eyes as she clutched her stinging cheek, her expression one of sheer disbelief. "I knew it," she choked out. "Since my parents are gone, no one cares about me anymore!"


    She then turned and ran upstairs, sobbing.


    Luther''s body swayed unsteadily, his breathing shallow as dizziness overtook him.


    Shepard was at his side in an instant. "Dad, please-stay calm. Don''t get upset," he quickly said.


    The elevator doors slid open, and Ableson stepped out just in time to witness the scene. His face tightened with concern as he rushed over. "Dad, you can''t let this get to you. Your healthes first. Let us deal with the younger generation ourselves."


    Brenna was touched. Unlike the Barretts, the Harpers didn''t dismiss her or treat her with indifference. They trusted her and cared about her.


    She moved closer, steadying Luther as he sat down. With gentle hands, she pressed her fingers to his temples, working in slow, careful circles. Her voice was calm and reassuring as she massaged him. "Grandpa, those clothes didn''t cost anything. M&G''s founder is a friend of mine-she gave them to me as a gift."


    Almost instantly, Luther''s tension eased, his aching head lightening. The relief was so profound that his body seemed to sink into rxation.


    He had received countless massages from professional massage therapists before, but none had been this calming. Brenna''s touch found every tension point with effortless skill, applying just enough pressu:


    him.


    Soothe


    "You know the founder of M&G personally?" Giselle''s voice held a note of surprise. The founder of M&G was a


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    mystery in the fashion world, an elusive figure who rarely made public appearances. High-society elitesrge for her works, some waiting years just for a single custom piece


    Brenna nodded. "We''ve been friends for a long time. She''s nning to expand into the local market woon i you''re interested, I can arrange for her to design something for you."


    Noticing that Giselle made no move to go after Rosie, Brenna decided to take the first step to be nice to Giselle


    Luther''s spirits lifted noticeably, and he couldn''t help but admire Brenda For someone to have connections with such an influential figure and effortlessly offer custom designs for her mother, she had to be exceptional in


    her own right.


    But at the same time, Luther felt regretful deep down. He should have ensured Brenna had everything she


    needed from the start instead of leaving her to figure things out on her own.


    Shepard and Giselle felt just as guilty. They had mistakenly listened to Rosie- assuming that not knowing Brenna''s size or preferences justified not preparing any clothes for her.


    They should have made the effort regardless, whether or not they knew her size or style preferences.


    The couple shared a remorseful nce, silently acknowledging their failure. They had unintentionally neglected their daughter, but to their relief, Brenna didn''t seem to resent them for it.


    As they observed Brenna attentively tending to Luther, easing his difort with such care and patience, they realized just how devoted and considerate she truly


    was.


    ¡°Brenna, what size do you wear? And what kind of styles do you like? I''ll ce an order right away," Giselle said, pulled out her phone, and began contacting multiple brand store managers, arranging for a selection of clothes, shoes, and bags to be delivered right away.


    A small smile tugged at Brenna''s lips as she told Giselle her size.


    She didn''t specify her style preferences-she usually dressed ording to the asion.


    Giselle, with her sharp fashion sense, quickly pieced together outfit choices in her mind, matching Brenna''s aura effortlessly.


    On the couch, Tessa held Luther''s hand, watching him closely. She had been worried about him copsing under the stress. A heart attack, a stroke-either could have been triggered by his rising temper.


    But Brenna continued her slow, steady work, her touch soft as she massaged Luther.


    The harsh pulse in Luther''s temples faded, his breathing settling into an even rhythm.


    "Where did you learn this?" he asked Brenna. "You are really good at massaging."


    Brenna''s eyes twinkled with a knowing glint. "It''s just something I picked up before," she said lightly. "Do you feel better now, Grandpa?"


    Luther nodded, sighing in relief. ¡°Much better. You''re a good girl. I shouldn''t have indulged Rosie for so long. I let her get away with too much. But don''t worry. If she does something like this again, she''ll face real consequences. I will make sure she learns her lesson."


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 Chapter 19

    Chapter 19 The Marriage Arrangement


    Rosie didn''te down for dinner, which meant no one was around to make things difficult for Brenna. With no tension in the air, Brenna enjoyed a rxed meal, exchanging easy conversation with other Harper family


    members.


    The dining table was long and spacious, designed to amodate the entire familyfortably.


    Shepard took the opportunity to formally introduce the family members to Brenna. To help her know them better, he even brought out a framed family portrait.


    He said, "Your eldest brother, Ernst Harper, is the vice president of the Harper Group. He handles most of the major decisions, so he''s constantly tied up with work. He owns multiple properties across Shirie, but he usually stays at the one closest to thepany. Because of that, he doesn''te home often. But I already told him you''ve returned today, so he''ll be backter."


    Brenna studied the photo, her eyesnding on a young man with brown hair and two earrings in each ear. His face bore a striking resemnce to a famous celebrity, though she couldn''t quite remember the celebrity''s


    name.


    Shepard continued, "Your second brother, Dalton Harper, works in the


    entertainment industry. His schedule is even tighter, so he won''t be back for a few days. But he already told me he would bring a gift for you when he


    returns."


    Shepard then pointed at another young man in the photo. Unlike Ernst, this one had a neat haircut and looked more serious. He looked about eighteen years old.


    After a pause, Shepard added, "This is your cousin, Lennon Harper, your uncle Ableson''s son. He''s studying abroad but should be back soon. And beside him is his sister, your cousin Audrey Harper, also studying overseas, though she''s set to graduate soon."


    Brenna nodded, understanding that young people with busy careers couldn''t always rush home. She didn''t take it personally. After all, she had her ownmitments as well-tomorrow, she had to visit Vincent Mitchell, Ethan''s grandfather, and examine his health condition


    Seated beside Brenna, Giselle held her hand, her touch warm and reassuring, "They''ll all return eventually, and you''ll get to know them in time. I haven''t been there for you all these years, so I don''t even know what you like to eat. That''s why I had the chef prepare a little of everything tonight. I heard you rarely got proper meals at the Barretts. How could they treat my daughter that way? Don''t worry, your father and brothers will make them pay for what they did to you."


    She gently stroked Brenna''s hair, her expression full of guilt. "You''ve suffered too much. From now on, whatever you need, just say the word. I''ve already arranged for a new batch of clothes to be delivered to you


    tomorrow."


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    Chapter 19 The Marriage Arrangement


    "Thank you." Brenna appreciated the gesture, though she still wasn''t used to such closeness. She kept her response polite, offering a small smile.


    As dish after dish was brought to the table-an extravagant spread-Brenna felt, for the first time, the warmth of a family that genuinely cared about her.


    Meanwhile, on the third floor, Rosie sat cross-legged on her bed, video-chatting with Sylvie and Vivian. She vented her frustration to her two closest friends, deliberately skipping dinner so that the Harper family would take note of her absence. She wanted them to know that she was upset. She wouldn''t go down to have dinner unless someone came to invite her.


    Sylvie, always scheming, suddenly perked up. "Brenna probably doesn''t know how to ride a horse, right? There''s an equestrianpetition on the 15th. My dad got us some invitations. Why don''t you invite her there and see how she embarrasses herself?"


    Vivian immediately jumped on the idea. "That''s perfect! We can all go together. Let Brenna see how different we are from her. She won''t fit in."


    For the first time that evening, Rosie smiled.


    Just then, a knock sounded at the door, and Rachael entered, pushing a small dining cart. "Hungry? Dinner has already started downstairs. I noticed you hadn''t gone down, so I brought some food here for you."


    Rosie''s smile turned sugary sweet. "You''re the best, Rachael. By the way, what are they talking about downstairs?"


    Rachael set the tes down and began arranging them on the table. "Your father is introducing the family members to Miss Brenna Harper."


    Rosie''s expression shifted as an idea took shape in her mind. "Neither Ernst nor Dalton is home yet, right?"


    Rachael, busy straightening the silverware, nodded. "Mr. Ernst Harper is handlingpany affairs, and Mr. Dalton Harper is tied up with work. Miss Brenna Harper is here to stay, so there''s no urgency for them toe back today to see her."


    Rosie smirked. "Alright, you can go now."


    Ernst and Dalton hadn''t met Brenna yet. That meant she had time to get to them first-to nt seeds of doubt, to turn them against Brenna before they could form their own opinions. Lennon and Audrey needed to be warned as well-especially Audrey. She was the one originally considered for the Mitchell family''s marriage arrangement.


    As Ableson''s daughter, Audrey had always been the most suitable choice. After all, Ableson had suffered severe injuries in the military while saving Ethan''s father.


    Out of gratitude, the Mitchell family had promised that one of their sons would marry a Harper daughter, not specifying whom exactly.


    However, for years, the younger generations of both families had dismissed the arrangement as something insignificant.


    But then, Ethan became the world''s richest man. His influence soared beyond even the Harper family''s reach. And suddenly, that long-forgotten agreement didn''t seem so outdated anymore. The Harper family had begun


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    taking it seriously.


    Audrey, being Ableson''s daughter, was the mos


    Now, Rosie wondered how Audrey wondd reset when the towth out the hat gridry tetestet we


    vor Restaurant


    With that in mind, Rosie grabbed her phone med began crafting a candy worth aubt d''una x the Harper family''s private group chat for the younger members to further bow her yine kom, they slipped downstairs, unnoticed, and captured a candid shot of the eldersea All Men dinner table-making it clear just how weed and cherished BrandA WAS


    Win a chance to read for free!>>>


    GO NOW

 Chapter 20

    Chapter 20 I''m Here To Treat Him


    By seven in the morning, Brenna had already freshened up and was making her way downstairs.


    As she entered the dining room, her gazended on a man seated at the table. He appeared to be in his early thirties, with neatly trimmed jet-ck hair that added a polished yet stylish touch to his sharp features. Dressed in a simple ck shirt, he exuded quiet authority. His lips pressed into a firm line as he cast a disinterested nce in Brenna''s direction before refocusing on his breakfast, making it clear he had no interest in talking to her.


    Brenna immediately assumed this must be her eldest brother, Ernst, But judging by his cold demeanor, he wasn''t eager to acknowledge her. Without pushing for interaction, she just offered him a polite smile before heading straight to the kitchen.


    Inside, Julia and two other maids were busy preparing the morning meal. Brenna scanned the selection before picking out a few items for herself.


    As Brenna finished eating, her phone rang. She picked up the call to hear Christopher Pierce''s voice. "Brenna, I''m at your gate."


    "Okay, I''ll be right out," Brenna replied, quickly swallowing thest bite of her food. Without lingering, she grabbed her phone and strode toward the door.


    Just as she was about to step outside, Giselle descended the stairs. Seeing Brenna hurrying out, she asked, "Where are you off to this early?"


    Brenna halted briefly before replying, "I have an appointment to meet someone today."


    Giselle took note of Brenna''s outfit-an elegant deep blue ensemble, consisting of a sleeveless chiffon blouse and wide-legged trousers, paired with sleek ck leather shoes. Her hair was swept into a neat bun, giving her an air of effortless sophistication.


    "Aren''t we supposed to pick some clothes together? I arranged for them to be delivered soon," Giselle said.


    Brenna offered a polite smile. "You can handle it. I will need outfits for different asions. I have something important to handle now."


    Giselle gave a small nod, choosing not to press Brenna for details about her ns or the person she was meeting. Since Brenna had only recentlye back, it seemed wiser to give her space rather than overstep.


    "Do you need the driver to take you?" Giselle asked.


    "My friend''s already here to pick me up." With that, Brenna waved lightly and stepped outside. Coincidentally, Ernst had just finished his breakfast and followed her out after rinsing his mouth.


    20.03


    <


    At the entrance, a ck MPV was parked with Christopher leaning casually against the vehicle. Upon spotting Brenna, he promptly opened the passenger door for her.


    Ernst, now standing nearby, immediately recognized Christopher "Dr. Pierce? Who are you here for?" he asked.


    Christopher, dressed in casual attire and appearing to be around the same age as Ernst, straightened slightly and greeted him warmly, "Mr. Harper, good morning. I''m here to pick up a friend."


    Ernst''s eyes flicked between Christopher and Brenna, his curiosity piqued as he tried to decipher their


    rtionship.


    ¡°Let''s go, Christopher,¡± Brenna said as she slid into the passenger seat.


    Seeing Ernst''s curious gaze, Christopher exined briefly, "Brenna and I studied together before."


    Ernst nodded at Christopher. The Pierce family was renowned, deeply influential in both the medical and business sectors. Christopher was a rising star in the medical field, known internationally for his expertise. Initially, Ernst had suspected that Christopher was financially supporting Brenna in some way, but after Christopher''s exnation, it became clear that they were friends because they had studied together before.


    But hadn''t Brenna dropped out of school before even finishing grade school? How could she possibly have be friends with someone like Christopher?


    The more he thought about it, the more perplexed he became. But ultimately, it didn''t matter to him. As far as he was concerned, Brenna was nothing more than an opportunist.


    Inside the car, Christopher provided Brenna with a quick update on Vincent''s condition. "Half a month ago, he suffered a sudden cerebral hemorrhage. He survived, but the aftermath was severe-he has lost all sensation on his left side. The Mitchells initially hoped my grandfather could help since he''s well-known for treating hemiplegia. But since my grandfather is over ny, he has long retired. When they started looking into his most aplished students, they found you." Brenna gave a small, knowing smile. "You could handle it just as well. You''ve inherited your grandfather''s techniques."


    "I''m a surgeon first and foremost," Christopher said with a resigned shrug. "My grandfather always says you have a natural gift for medicine. It''s a shame you never pursued it seriously."


    Not long after, they arrived at Shirie Hospital.


    As one of the top hospitals in the country, the hospital was renowned for its elite specialists and frequently catered to patients from all over the country.


    Stepping out of the MPV, Christopher handed Brenna a surgical mask. Without hesitation, she slipped it on, concealing most of her face.


    "Vincent underwent surgery to relieve pressure on the brain two weeks ago. He''s currently in the internal medicine ward, Room 101, on the seventh floor," Christopher said. Just as he spoke, his phone rang-a call from the emergency department.


    "You go ahead. I need to handle this," he said before hurrying off.


    Brenna made her way to Vincent''s room alone.


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    111


    Outside the room, a small crowd had gathered. Among them were several doctors


    in white coats, a few nurses, and a group of well-dressed individuals who appeared to be Vincent''s family members.


    As Brenna approached, no one paid her any attention, assuming she was a family member of a patient, who


    had wandered into the wrong room.


    "Thest student of Mr. Pierce should be arriving soon," a man muttered, ncing down the corridor while


    checking his watch.


    A female doctor in her thirties hung up a call and turned back to the group with an eager expression. "Dr. Pierce just told me that Mr. Pierce''s student has arrived."


    Brenna''s voice was calm as she spoke. "Excuse me, is this Mr. Vincent Mitchell''s hospital room? I''m here to


    treat him."

 Chapter 21

    Chapter 21 Just A Fraud


    At the entrance of the hospital room, all eyes turned to Brenna, many filled with skepticism and condescension.


    There were five doctors, four men and one woman, all wearing badges that identified them as chief physicians. The male doctors, all in their forties or older, were experienced professionals in internal medicine.


    Standing nearby were two nurses-one a head nurse, the other a junior nurse. Among the seven individuals who seemed to be family members, two were young adults in their twenties, while the rest were middle-aged men in their fifties. Their attire was casual, but the quality of the fabric hinted at wealth and status.


    A name badge on the young female doctor read "Chief Physician-Lindsay Cohen".


    Lindsay studied Brenna critically. The young woman before her, dressed fashionably, looked more suited for an office than a hospital ward. Though her face was partially hidden behind a mask, her striking eyes and good figure showed her beauty.


    "These days, anyone can im to be an expert, huh?" Lindsay scoffed at Brenna, crossing her arms. "Some people will do anything for ten million dors."


    Everyone in the room knew about the Mitchell family''s offer-a hefty reward to hire a top specialist for Vincent''s treatment. They had all assumed the expert, Cuthbert''s renowned student, would be a seasoned male doctor, likely in his fifties, balding, and carrying decades of experience.


    The idea that someone in her early twenties could be the renowned student of Cuthbert was absurd to them.


    They believed at such a young age, Brenna likely hadn''t evenpleted her university studies, let alone acquired the level of medical expertise required for such aplex case.


    "You expect us to believe you''re the student of Cuthbert? Do you think the Mitchell family is full of fools? You really thought you could just show up, im to be Cuthbert''s student, and walk away with ten million?" Lindsay sneered, rolling her eyes.


    Brenna met her gaze calmly. "I am Cuthbert''s student," she said.


    Laughter erupted among the group of people.


    One doctor, a man in his fifties, let out the loudest chuckle. Brenna nced at his name tag-Landen Scott.


    "Miss, do you even know where you are?" Landen sneered. "At your age, you probably can''t even diagnose a cold, let alone handle such a case. Do you even know what a cerebral hemorrhage is? You probably haven''t even graduated from medical school."


    The head nurse gave Brenna a pitying look. "You should leave. This is a top-tier hospital. Only graduates from elite medical schools get the chance to train here. If you don''t leave now, we''ll have to call security."


    Brenna sighed, already losing patience. "I don''t have time to waste on this. Christopher brought me here. He has studied alongside me before. Besides, what does age have to do with skill?"


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    Chapter 21 Just A Fraud


    Lindsay let out a sharpugh. "Christopher brought you here? Then where is he now? Why isn''t he with you here? In my opinion, you''re just a fraud."


    The head nurse, clearly tired of the argument, called for security


    "I''ll call Christopher now." Brenna frowned, reaching for her phone. But the


    moment she dialed, her call went unanswered. Christopher was in surgery, saving


    a car ident victim, and his phone was in his locker.


    Seeing Brenna''s failed attempt, the crowd erupted into moreughter, with Lindsay smirking triumphantly "See? I knew she was a fraud! Just another scam artist hoping to get money from the Mitchell family, she sed


    At that moment, two security guards arrived. Lindsay pointed at Brenna "Get her out of here before the real student of Mr. Pierce arrives."


    Brenna shot a cold re at the approaching guards. "Don''t touch me. I can walk on my own."


    Landen, clearly enjoying the moment, pointed at Brenna as he said, "Do you even know who the patient is? Mr. Mitchell isn''t just anyone-he''s a retired militarymander. Even we aren''t fully qualified to treat him, and yet you, at your age, think you are? What does that make us, then?"


    Lindsay let out a coldugh, saying, "We''re waiting for Mr. Pierce''s renowned student. Someone qualified, an expert in medicine, at least in his forties, someone with actual experience. Not some random girl pretending to be important. But you know what? If you do end up being able to treat Mr. Mitchell, we will all kneel and apologize to you."


    Brenna arched an eyebrow, replying in a calm voice, "Really? You will really kneel and apologize to me if that happens? You''d better keep your word."


    Landen and Lindsay exchanged amused nces before Lindsay replied, "Of course."


    Brenna walked over to a chair in the corridor. She crossed her legs and leaned back, watching the group continue their discussion as they eagerly awaited Cuthbert''s student.


    If it weren''t for the fact that she needed money, she wouldn''t waste another second dealing with these people. For ten million dors, she could afford to be patient. She could wait for Christopher to arrive to prove her identity.


    Inside the hospital room, the Mitchell family members were growing restless. One of them pulled out a phone and dialed a number. "Ethan, what''s going on? Mr. Pierce''s student still isn''t here. We''ve been waiting for over thirty minutes."


    On the other end of the line, Ethan, seated in his office, nced up from the documents he was signing Til look into it. I''ll be there soon."


    The young man on the phone hesitated before saying, "Do you think Mr. Pierce''s student is holding out for a higher price?"


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    Chapter 22 Stay Out Of My Family''s Business -


    The Mitchell family members regarded Brenna with open disdain and signaled the security guards to escort her


    out.


    The elderly man with graying hair turned to a younger one speaking on the phone. "Theo, get rid of that fraud. I don''t want to see her loitering around here any longer," he said.


    Theo Mitchell, still on the call, said to the phone smoothly, "If it''s a matter of money, let''s add another twenty million. That should be enough, right?"


    After receiving confirmation from the other end, Theo ended the call and strode toward Brenna with the security guards nking him. "Miss, you''re not wee here. If you don''t leave now, we''ll have no choice but to involve the police," he said coldly.


    Brenna nced around at the hostile faces surrounding her, then let out an indignant sigh. "Fine. It''s easy to throw me out now, but don''t expect me toe back so easily when you realize your mistake," she said.


    Theo smirked. "And why would we ever want a fraud like you toe back? You''re just another opportunist, scheming to cling to wealth and status. Trust me, no one here is interested in whatever game you''re ying. Now, leave."


    Frustrated but unwilling to argue further, Brenna turned and strode away. If they didn''t want her here, she saw no reason to stay.


    Reaching the elevator, she pressed the button and waited, ignoring the two security guards nearby who remained on high alert, watching her every move as if expecting her to cause trouble.


    When the elevator doors slid open, a hospital bed was wheeled out, carrying an elderly woman whose silver hair was neatlybed yet dulled by illness. Brenna barely spared a nce at first, but when her eyes flicked to the people apanying the patient, she stiffened.


    It was the Barrett family-Alec, Ruby, and Isabe!


    Before Brenna could react, Isabe red at her. She recognized Brenna in an instant despite the mask partially concealing Brenna''s face. Isabe quickly took in Brenna''s outfit; she didn''t know the brand of her outfit, but it looked expensive.


    "Brenna, what are you doing here?" Isabe snapped, stepping out of the elevator and yanking Brenna into the hallway. Her voice carried enough usation to make heads turn. "Don''t tell me you came running just because you heard Grandma is sick. Are you hoping she''ll vouch for you so you can crawl back into our family?"


    Brenna pulled free from Isabe''s grasp and dusted off the sleeve Isabe had touched as if wiping aw, dirt "I have my own reasons for being here," she said coldly.


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    She then nced at the frail woman on the bed. Her eyes were shut tight, her face miched with pan


    "What happened to Grandma?" Brenna asked, stepping forward, intending to check on her condition Ctiline the rest of the Barretts, her adoptive grandmother had always tread her kindly Now that she was well, how


    could Brenna not be concerned?


    Isabe stepped in front of the bed, blocking Brenna''s path "Stay away from her the exdated. "You''re no longer part of our family. Don''t think for a second that you can waltz back in


    As if only now realizing the quality of Brenna''s clothing, Isabe frowned with suspicion. The outfit was deadly designer-far beyond anything Brenna should be able to afford. Had Brenna be some rich man''s mistress? Isabe said, "Brenna, even if the Harper family isn''t wealthy, you should still crawl back to that baconte ce they came from. Shirie isn''t for people like you. Get lost while you still can, or my family and I will make sure you regret staying"


    Alec and Ruby shot Brenna disdainful nces before pushing the hospital bed into Room 111 and mming the door shut behind them.


    Worried about her adoptive grandmother, Brenna turned sharply to Isabe, her voice edged with anger. Tel me what happened to Grandma! When I left yesterday, she was fine. Did you upset her?"


    Isabe scoffed, arms crossed smugly, "And why does it matter to you? She has nothing to do with you now. I''m warning you-stay out of my family''s business."


    With that, she slipped inside the hospital room and locked the door. Brenna knocked a few times, but no one responded. From inside, muffled voices rose in heated discussion, but she couldn''t make out the words.


    Behind her, the security guards nudged her lightly. "Miss, it''s time for you to leave."


    Without another word, Brenna turned and stepped into the elevator. The guards followed to ensure she didn''t try sneaking back up.


    Once Brenna reached the ground floor, they stopped following her. Without wasting a moment, she made her way to the nurse''s station, determined to gather information about the patient in Room 111 on the seventh


    floor.


    Checking the records, one of the nurses informed Brenna that the elderly woman had been admitted due to dangerously high blood pressure.


    After getting the details about her adoptive grandmother''s attending physician, Brenna exhaled in relief and left to find Christopher.


    By the time she reached him, Christopher had just stepped out of the emergency room. Upon spotting her, he raised an eyebrow. "Shouldn''t you be treating Vincent? What are you still doing here?" he asked.


    As he spoke, he checked his phone and scrolled through his notifications. He noticed multiple missed calls from Neville, Ethan''s assistant. Without hesitation, Christopher dialed back.


    While Christopher waited for the call to connect, Brenna quickly summarized her encounter with the Mitchell family.


    Christopher couldn''t help but feel resigned after hearing that, amused by the irony yet irritated by the Harper family''s arrogance. Just then, the call connected.


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    On the other end of the line, Neville''s urgent voice came through. "Dr. Pierce, when is Mr. Pierce''s student arriving? Mr. Mitchell says the fee is negotiable-how about thirty million?"


    Christopher caught the irritation on Brenna''s face and decided to make things difficult for the Mitchells. If they couldn''t recognize Brenna''s worth and had the audacity to treat her like a fraud, they deserved to sweat a little.


    He replied, ¡°Oh, I''m afraid Mr. Pierce''s student is a bit busy right now. You might want to start looking for


    another expert."


    Win a chance to read for free!>>>

 Chapter 23

    Chapter 23 Ethan Comes In Person To Pick Brenna Up


    At the Mitchell Group headquarters.


    Neville reported to Ethan, "Dr. Pierce said that Cuthbert''s renowned student has taken on an unexpected patient and won''t be avable for at least a week."


    Ethan''s eyes lifted from the folder he was reviewing, his expression darkening. "Call him again. Offer a hundred million if that''s what it takes. We need that person to treat my grandfather immediately. Dr. Scott made it clear-my grandfather''s best chance at recovery lies within this month. If we dy, even by a single day, his odds worsen," he said.


    Neville gave a serious nod. "Understood," he said before dialing Christopher''s number once more.


    At the hospital, Christopher led Brenna into his office on the third floor. As his phone rang, he merely pointed at it, making no move to pick it up. Instead, he smirked at Brenna. "Those self-important fossils in the Mitchell family think they run the world. Let''s keep them sweating. Unless Ethanes in person to invite us, we are not going. And unless they''re willing to cough up a hundred million, we won''t take the case."


    Hearing that, Brenna nodded, casually scrolling through her phone.


    After a while, Christopher finally answered Neville''s call. Neville wasted no time in offering a hundred million outright, leaving Christopher somewhat


    unaplished. Was the Mitchell family really so rich that tossing around a hundred million meant nothing to them?


    After some back-and-forth negotiations, they finallynded on a deal-the fee was set for two hundred million. Ending the call, Christopher held up two fingers and grinned. "Two hundred million. Ethan is on his way here to pick you up. And it''s payment upfront, treatment after. Give me your ount number."


    Brenna rattled off the digits, and within moments, her phone chimed with a bank notification. She received two hundred million.


    What had begun as a ten-million-dor case had ballooned into a sum twenty timesrger-all because the Mitchell family members had failed to recognize true ability.


    Half an hourter, Ethan and Neville stepped into Christopher''s office. Ethan knocked once before opening the door. "Dr. Pierce, has that doctor arrived?"


    Christopher, all professional charm now that Brenna had received the money, motioned inside and said, "Come in, Mr. Mitchell. The doctor is already here."


    He then gestured toward Brenna, who sat with her phone in hand, entirely unbothered. "This Dr. Harpe. Ethan''s eyes settled on the masked figure before him. Brenna''s outfit and hairstyle were a stark contrast from


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    thest time they had met, and since most of her face was obscured. Ethan failed to segre


    Unlike Landen, Lindsay, and the other members of his family. Ethan wasn''t quits domes someone you


    age, but even so, he found it hard to believe that the renowned doctor was so young


    "This youngdy?" he asked. "She looks about twenty. She is so young" Christopher''s easygoing expression faded, his voice turning serious. "She''s my grandad 00 trusted student. I wouldn''t joke about something like this," he said


    Ethan took a step forward and extended his hand toward Brenne. It''s a pleasure to meet you in Ho


    said.


    Without enthusiasm, Brenna reached out for a brief handshake before withdrawing te band she wore the Ethan hadn''t recognized her yet and decided not to say anything about it


    If he realized who she was, he might reconsider paying her that two hundred million


    Christopher looked at Ethan and said, "Shall we leave here to see your grandfather now?"


    On the seventh floor, the group of people remained outside Room 101 The doctors and the Mindel farby elders were still gathered, looking every bit as dismissive as they had earlier when they saw Brema they saw Ethan leading Brenna toward them, their expressions darkened


    Vo


    Emmett Mitchell, Ethan''s father, stepped forward, his displeasure evident. "Why have you bought fia faut back here? She already caused trouble here earlier, and we had her removed."


    Ethan turned to face his father. He was unustomed to seeing his father in casual diotnes, as he was used to seeing him in military uniform. But even though his father was in casual clothes, his autoritative demeano remained. In aposed voice, Ethan said, "Dad, this is Dr. Cuthbert Pierce''s renowned student-Dr. Payer?


    A hush fell over the group.


    Emmett''s sharp eyes reevaluated Brenna Skepticism fickered across his face "You''re realy Dr. Fer''s student?" he asked.


    He found it difficult to believe, but the fact that Christopher stood beside Brenna mean she wrest''t a fraud Emmett''s eyesnded on the medical kit in Christopher''s hand. The realization sented in Despine fer age Brenna had already established herself as a leader in the medical field


    Brenna looked at him and replied without hesitation, "That''s right. I am his student


    Ethan remained silent, beginning to piece things together. He believed he could guess what had happened earlier. However, given that the people present were all his elders in the family, he chose not to say anything to criticize their arrogance.


    "Please-" The people present made way for Brenna


    As Brenna moved toward the hospital room, she nced at the doctors she had encounte was calm as she said, "I recall someone promising an apology"


    earlier. Her voice


    The doctors collectively tensed. Lindsay hesitated before turning to Christopher "Isa''t she supposed to be Cuthbert''s renowned student? If that''s the case, shouldn''t she be some top-tier expert in the medical field? She''s far too young. Is she really skilled?"


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    < Chapter 23 Ethan Comes In Person To Pick Brenna Up


    "Yes." Christopher''s expression was serious. "Dr. Cohen, you should apologize to her now"


    Lindsay''s jaw clenched, her pride warring with the demand. After an agonizing pause, she finally forced the words out. "I''m sorry," she muttered with clear reluctance,


    As Brenna entered the hospital room, she heard the murmurs behind her.


    "She''s really the one treating him? She looks way too young"

 Chapter 24

    Chapter 24 Trying To Stop Brenna From Treating M...


    Lindsay''s eyes burned with resentment. She had always been at the top of her field, excelling in medical school with record-breaking scores. Throughout her academic years, she had consistently ranked first, earning prestigious schrships and fast-tracking her way through advanced degrees.


    Professors and mentors called her a once-in-a-generation talent.


    The moment she graduated, top hospitals vied for her talent. Within just three years, she had climbed from a resident doctor to chief physician-an achievement that took most doctors over a decade.


    During her time at the hospital, she had authored numerous research papers in both national and international medical journals. The department heads and the hospital director regarded her as their brightest rising star, making her the youngest attending physician in Shirie''s most elite medical institution.


    She had always believed there was no one in her generation who could rival her. And yet, now, she was looking at someone even younger and, to her horror, more renowned. How was that even possible?


    Brenna didn''t look much older than twenty. Even if she hadpleted medical school early and pursued postgraduate studies immediately, there was no way she had enough clinical experience to surpass her.


    For that reason, Lindsay was convinced that Brenna had to be a fraud. And Christopher? He had clearly been deceived-maybe by Brenna''s beauty.


    Landen, standing beside Lindsay, shared her deep sense of anger. His face was grim as he muttered, "I''ve been in this field for over twenty years, yet I''ve never seen an expert this young. I still believe she is just a fraud. I''ll call some people from the medical field to expose her true colors!"


    Lindsay agreed immediately, "Yes! I''ll reach out to some of my connections as well. I worked hard to earn the right to treat Mr. Mitchell-I won''t stand by and watch this fraud make a mess of the matter. If something happens to Mr. Mitchell, neither of us will escape the consequences."


    Without hesitation, the two of them pulled out their phones and began dialing contacts.


    Meanwhile, outside Room 111, Ruby and Isabe had been observing the situation unfold. They quickly pieced things together. They believed Brenna was actually posing as a medical expert, attempting to con the Mitchell


    family.


    Isabe, unable to believe what she was witnessing, turned to her mother. "Mom, didn''t Brenna drop out before finishing grade school? When did she suddenly be a doctor?"


    disgrace, but now, she was actua.


    using Ruby''s expression twisted in fury. Brenna had always been a trouble for a powerful family like the Mitchell family? Did she want to bring ruin upon the Barrett family for doing this?


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    Chapter 24 Trying To Stop Brenna From Treating Mr Machen


    She eximed in anger, "That reckless girl! How could she be so bold and vile? What could the prothy brow about medicine? She has never even stepped foot inside a medical school! This is infuriating, I wouldn''t care if she went out into the world and scammed strangers or even met a bad end, but she''s still tied to our familly, of she gets exposed for fraud, our family will be the one paying the price! If this continues, she''ll drag us down with her and ruin everything we''ve built!"


    Isabe''s expression darkened as the weight of the situation sank in. "Mot, we can''t let Brenna stir up trouble


    like this!"


    Turning to Alec, she said urgently, "Dad, Brenna is about to cause a disaster. If we don''t stop her now, she''s going to bring the Mitchell family''s wrath down on us."


    Without hesitation, Alec abandoned his elderly mother and stormed toward Vincent''s hospital room, with Ruby and Isabe right behind him.


    Inside the VIP suite, Vincenty in bed with an IV drip inserted into his arm. The severe cerebral hemorrhage had left him visibly weakened-his mouth twisted, eyes drooping, and half of his body paralyzed. He was unable to speak, barely able to make a sound.


    The hospital suite was luxurious,plete with a spacious living area and an adjoining patient room.


    A group of attending physicians and Mitchell family members surrounded Vincent''s bed, all waiting to see how Brenna would handle the case. Especially the doctors, many of whom didn''t believe that someone as young as Brenna could surpass their medical skills.


    To them, this was nothing more than an opportunity to watch her embarrass herself.


    Christopher set the medical kit down and handed Brenna a diagnostic tool.


    Just as Brenna was about to examine the patient, Isabe yanked her hand back, ring at her. "Brenna, do you even know the first thing about medicine? You''ve never stepped inside a medical school-never studied medicine for a single day! Who do you think you''re fooling? These people may not know you, but you grew up in my family, and my family knows you well. Don''t try to act like someone you''re not. You didn''t even make it through grade school, and now, you''re here pretending to be a doctor? Stop embarrassing yourself and go back to whatever rundown vige you came from!"


    A hush fell over the room. All eyes turned to Brenna, many of them filled with shock. If what Isabe was saying was true, then all of their earlier doubts had been justified.


    Alec stepped forward, saying to Brenna, "I understand that you''re struggling financially, Brenna, and that life in Shirie hasn''t been kind to you. But this is uneptable. The Mitchell family is indeed offering a ten-million-dor reward for a top-tier doctor to treat Mr. Mitchell, but do you really have the expertise to take on that role? You need to be honest and not resort to deceit just for the sake of money. If something happens to Mr. Mitchell because of you, it won''t just be your problem-the entire Barrett family will have to answer for it. After all, we raised you, and that makes us responsible for your actions."


    As he finished, he and Ruby each grabbed one of Brenna''s arms, determined to drag her out of the room.


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 Chapter 25

    Chapter 25 All Of You Have


    Been Deceived


    Brenna forcefully pulled away from the Barrett couple, her expression cold and unyielding as she said, "I have no ties to the Barrett family anymore. Stay out of my affairs. Leave now, unless you want to be the reason Mr. Mitchell''s treatment is dyed."


    Despite the anger simmering inside her, she refrained from exposing the Barretts'' true nature-for the sake of the years they had raised her and out of respect for her adoptive grandmother.


    The Mitchell family observed the scene in silence.


    Could someone as young as Brenna truly possess medical skills that surpassed those of seasoned professionals? They were skeptical about that.


    Emmett leaned toward Ethan, lowering his voice. "Where did you even find this woman? She is a fraud!''


    Ethan was still processing the shock of the revtion. He hadn''t recognized Brenna earlier. He was surprised that she possessed such exceptional medical skills.


    He said to his father earnestly, "Dad, she''s no fraud. The Pierce family wouldn''t make such an obvious mistake. Christopher is Mr. Pierce''s grandson, isn''t he? He would never bring in a fraud."


    Alec, enraged, jabbed a finger toward Brenna and shouted, "You are really something! What kind of trick did you pull to fool the Pierce family? Be honest-did you sleep with Mr. Pierce''s grandson?"


    Christopher scowled instantly. If Alec hadn''t once raised Brenna, he might have punched the man right then and there. His voice was sharp with warning as he said, "Watch your mouth!"


    But Alec, unaware of who Christopher was, remained defiant. He shot Christopher a re, dismissing him entirely despite the doctor''s coat he wore. "And who are you to tell me what to do? I''m only looking out for Mr. Mitchell. All of you have been deceived by this woman! I have no idea how she managed to earn your trust, but I was the one who raised her-I''m her adoptive father. We took her in when she was just over two years old, and she was always slow. She struggled academically and left school after the fourth grade. For years, all she did was houseworkundry and cooking. There''s no way she could have any medical knowledge."


    Ruby quickly said, "That''s right! Brenna has been nothing but trouble since childhood-selfish and cruel. Don''t let her deceive you."


    Brenna seethed with anger, convinced that the Barrett family had mastered the art of distorting reality "Do you really think I left school in fourth grade by choice? Tell the truth! You made me design car parts and earn money for you-that was why I couldn''t continue my education. I''m slow? Then you''re ipetent, and cruel!"


    foolish,


    Christopher, noticing the Barrett family''s hostility, stepped in front of Brenna protectively. Since they had no share in twisting the truth, he saw no reason to respect them. He eximed, "Your family isn''t struggling


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    financially, yet you forced your daughter to handle chores like a servant. That''s abuse! Leave now! Don''t interrupt Mr. Mitchell''s rest."


    Christopher jabbed a finger toward the door, furious.


    Ethan''s tone was firm as he said coldly, "Get out. I was the one who invited Dr. Harper, and I have full confidence in her abilities. Your opinions are neither needed nor wee here."


    Isabe, realizing that Ethan-the wealthiest man in the world-was standing by Brenna, felt a surge of jealousy. How could someone like Brenna earn Ethan''s trust and support?


    Unable to hold back, she said to Ethan, "Mr. Mitchell, we''re just trying to warn you. She knows nothing about medicine! She''s just trying to deceive you for money."


    Brenna, unwilling to tolerate any more nder, responded without hesitation. She pped Isabe across the face and said coldly, "Just because you don''t know about my medical expertise doesn''t mean it doesn''t exist. Why do you insist on spreading falsehoods and tarnishing my reputation? You know well what kind of people your family members are. If I revealed my capability, they''d take advantage of me without hesitation!" Isabe, seething with rage, red at Brenna. ¡°How dare you hit me? And in front of all these people? How could you be this disrespectful to me?"


    Without another word, she lunged at Brenna.


    Alec and Ruby immediately rushed forward to support their daughter, turning the hospital room into a scene ofplete chaos.


    Brenna reacted instantly, yanking Isabe and Ruby back by their hair and shoving them aside to keep them from colliding with Vincent''s hospital bed.


    "The Barrett family has truly lost all sense of shame. You don''t deserve any respect," Brenna said icily.


    "Get out." Ethan''s gaze darkened as he shot the Barretts a look filled with contempt.


    Just as he finished speaking, Neville strode in, apanied by several Mitchell family bodyguards. Without hesitation, the bodyguards dragged the Barrett family out.


    Lindsay and Landen, watching from the doorway, exchanged nces. If Brenna was truly skilled in medicine, why would the Barretts cause such a scene? Brenna must be a fraud.


    They trailed after the fuming Barretts to Room 111, eager to dig up more information on Brenna.


    Meanwhile, the medicine experts they had invited were expected to arrive soon. They were adamant about exposing Brenna, ensuring she would never be allowed to practice medicine again.


    Alec and Ruby wasted no time painting Brenna in the worst possible light.


    "Brenna was never bright-always at the bottom of her ss, struggling to keep up," Alec said.


    "Andzy, too! Constantly picking fights and getting into trouble. Eventually, she caused such a mess that she had to run away overseas," Ruby added.


    Back in Room 101, just as Brenna was about to begin the examination, Emmett stepped forward and stopped her. His expression was serious as he said, "Dr. Harper, I believe it would be best to have a few experts assist you."


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 Chapter 26

    Chapter 26 That Was Just A Joke


    The rest of the Mitchell family shared the same sentiment. The seasoned doctors in the room also agreed. With years of medical expertise behind them, they had exhausted every possible treatment for Vincent''s condition without sess. The idea that a woman barely in her twenties could surpass their skills and achieve what they couldn''t was simply inconceivable.


    To be honest, they didn''t believe Brenna was that skilled at all.


    Lindsay approached Emmett with confidence. "Everyone, those people earlier were family members of Dr. Harper, so naturally, they knew her well. Whether she actually has any medical expertise is still a question that needs answering. These days, very few young women dedicate themselves to serious study. We can''t afford to gamble with Mr. Mitchell''s health. Fortunately, I''ve called in a few friends who are experts in the medical field. Once they arrive, they will see Dr. Harper''s skills, and we''ll have the truth about her credibility,"


    She lifted her chin, ncing at Brenna with open disdain. "Dr. Harper-or should I say, Miss Harper-if you''re simply putting on an act, 1 suggest youe clean now. Given your age, we might chalk it up to youthful ignorance and let the matter slide. But if the experts expose you as a fraud, things won''t end well for you. We "may have to involve the authorities, and the consequences could be severe." Standing nearby, Landen said with an air of intimidation, "Mr. Mitchell is a decorated war hero, not someone you can experiment on. Miss Harper, if I were you, I''d confess now before you anger the Mitchell family. Because if you do, no one will be able to protect you."


    Brenna rolled her eyes, clearly unimpressed. "So, none of you trust me, huh?"


    She turned to Ethan and casually said, "Is there anyone else in your family who''s unwell? Let me assess their


    "condition, and you''ll see my capability for yourselves."


    Ethan shot a disapproving nce at the doctors. Their skepticism was nothing more than thinly veiled jealousy. Because they couldn''t cure his grandfather, they assumed no one else could, either.


    He looked at his father and said, "Dad, I trust Dr. Harper. Why don''t we let her examine you? It wouldn''t hurt to see if she can help improve your health."


    Emmett exchanged looks with his brothers, and after a brief hesitation, they all nodded in agreement.


    The group moved to the outer living room, where Emmett took a seat on a single sofa, resting his arm on the armrest. Brenna settled onto the adjacent sofa, calmly positioning herself to examine Emmett''s health condition.


    Emmett''s posture was straight, the ingrained discipline of a soldier evident in his posture


    The doctors present looked on with barely concealed amusement as if waiting for Brenna to embarrass herself. She first checked the pulse on Emmett''s left wrist before moving to his right, her expression unreadable as she remained silent for a long moment after examining him.


    21:00


    Seeing this, Landen scoffed, "Miss Itarper, we''ve been waiting, Ive you figured anything out yes? if you''re just


    to putting on an act here, you should stop now before you make a food of yourself be upfront with you u Emmett Mitchell underwent a full medical examination past yesterday If you can urately dagrose his condition, I''ll drop to my knees and apologize to you


    Lindsay folded her arms and smirked. "I do the same. Forget about treating Mr. Vincent Mitchell- you can even diagnose Mr. Emmett Mitchell''s condition, I''ll also kneel and apologiango yo


    Brenna''s lips curled into a slight smile she said to Emmett, "Your overall health is good."


    The doctors burst intoughter upon hearing that.


    Landen pointed at Brenna and mocked, "I told you she was a fraud! See? She really doesn''t know what she is doing


    The Mitchell family exchanged disappointed looks, all except Ethan, who watched Brenna closely. He noticed that she wasn''t rattled at all. Instead, she calmly pulled out her phone and swiftly typed out a few messages. Before theughter could die down, Ethan raised his hand. "Let''s not jump to conclusions. Dr. Harper hasn''t finished speaking yet," he said.


    Landen let out a snort. "Fine, we''ll give the young woman a chance. Let''s hear what you have to say, Miss Harper. We even have the test results right here. We will know whether your assessment is right or not."


    The room fell silent as all eyes turned to Brenna.


    Brenna held a deep respect for soldiers, especially those who had sustained injuries in service.


    She said respectfully, "Mr. Mitchell, your overall health is good, but your left leg is a problem. You suffered a gunshot wound in your left calf. Though the bullet was removed, the damage to the nerves remains. When the weather shifts or you''re overworked, the pain res up, and painkillers don''t help. It''s also hard for you to find the cause of the pain to treat it."


    Emmett''s eyes widened in surprise, and his brothers, Cason Mitchell and Flint Mitchell, exchanged looks of approval.


    Emmett leaned forward slightly, pleasantly surprised.


    A piece of shrapnel was lodged in my leg bone for You''re absolutely right. My


    injury was from an explosion


    has never gone away."


    over two years before it was removed. Since then, the pain


    He turned to Landen and Lindsay. "Now, what was it you both promised earlier?"


    The two doctors went pale, ring at Brenna as though she had personally wronged them. The idea of kneeling before someone so young-someone they had dismissed as a fraud-was unbearable.


    Ethan''s voice was firm as he said, "If you don''t keep your word, you''ll be disqualified as doctors."


    Landen and Lindsay stiffened, their faces drained of color. The Mitchell family held vast influence, spanning the military, politics, and business. If the Mitchells decided to target them, their careers would be over.


    But kneeling and apologizing? It was too humiliating Landen tried to weasel his way out. He said, "Mr. Mitchell, that was just a joke! Surely, we don''t have to take it seriously?"

 Chapter 27

    Chapter 27 Kneel And Apologize


    "We soldiers stand by our promises." Emmett''s voice was as sharp as steel as he red at Lindsay and Landen.


    Ethan, without hesitation, pulled out his phone and dialed the hospital director.


    "No!" Lindsay gasped in panic, lunging forward to snatch Ethan''s phone from his hand. She quickly ended the call and ced the device back in his hand, her heart pounding Losing everything over something so trivial wasn''t worth it. It was just kneeling and apologizing, after all-she could endure that much.


    Clenching her fists, she walked toward Brenna. Then, with a loud thud, she dropped to her knees. Though she was kneeling, a deep hatred burned within her, and she silently vowed to take revenge one day.


    "I''m so sorry!" she said.


    Then, without waiting for a response, Lindsay sprang to her feet and rushed out of the room, unable to bear to stay here for another second.


    Landen, however, wasn''t as willing to do the same. Having worked in the hospital for over twenty years and being an expert in the medical field, he couldn''t fathom the humiliation of kneeling before a woman barely in


    her twenties.


    "Dr. Harper, I apologize," he said stiffly, bowing instead of kneeling as he had promised. "I was wrong." Brenna, not wanting to make things difficult for him, responded with an even tone, "Apology epted.


    Landen''s cheeks burned with humiliation, his pride stung. He resented Brenna for this,


    At that moment, the experts Lindsay had called finally arrived-three elderly men in their sixties. Despite their age, they exuded energy, theirplexions glowing with health


    Leading them was Westin Pierce, a distinguished figure in the medicial field, his silver hairbed neatly back. The moment he spotted Brenna, his face lit up with recognition. "Brenna, it''s you!" he eximed, his tone at mix of surprise and amusement. "I heard some fools imed a young woman was pretending to be a doctor, and we were summoned to expose a fraud. Clearly, they were mistaken!" he said.


    Landen shrank back, his face burning with shame.


    Christopher approached Westin with a polite nod. "Uncle Westin, I see they managed to drag you into this


    mess."


    After Christopher gave him a quick rundown of the situation, Westin scoffed, shaking his head. "Utter foolishness! They were so arrogant for doing something like that! Just because theyck the skill doesn''t meat


    everyone else does."


    He then turned to Brenna, his gaze warm as he said, "Ignore them. Go ahead and treat Vincent-we''d also be


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    < Chapter 27 Kheet And Apologize


    honored to learn something from you


    Brenna gave him a respectful rod "Alright By the way, how''s your health recently


    Before Westin could reply, Brenna caught sight of the Barrett fally letering near the done, their faces twisted


    with conflicting emotions


    Isabe leaned toward Ruby and whispered, "Mom, didn''t you say Brenns never even finished grade school! How is her medical skill so good?"


    Ruby''s expression was one of pure disbelief. "How would I know! She''s actually thest student of Dr. Pierce How is that even possible?" she said.


    Meanwhile, Alec''s mind was working in a different direction "If she''s really that talented in medicine, maybe we should let her examine my motherter," he said.


    Ruby nodded in agreement. She said, "Maybe we should bring her back into the family. With her status as Dr Pierce''s renowned student, we could gain incredible connections through her


    Alec seemed to agree with the idea and nodded, but Isabe immediately objected, saying "No way! If we let her back, she''ll outshine me. And what if she steals my fianc¨¦ from me?"


    Inside the hospital room, Brenna focused on Vincent, carefully retrieving a set of disposable needles from her medical kit. With precise movements, she began the acupuncture treatment, targeting his head first before following the meridians down the left side of his body.


    A hush fell over the room. Then, miraculously, Vincent''s fingers twitched ever so slightly.


    The Mitchell family members were all very surprised to see that. "The doctors said Grandpa wouldn''t be able to move his left side for at least six months," Ethan said with a smile, his voiceced with astonishment. "But Dad -his fingers just moved!" Emmett, equally amazed, chuckled. "I saw it. Dr. Harper truly lives up to her reputation as Dr. Pierce''s student Her skills are remarkable!" he eximed.


    Brenna calmly finished the acupuncture treatment and turned to Ethan. "It''s just a small movement, nothing significant. This is just the beginning. It''s a small sign of improvement, proving that Mr. Mitchell''s nerves are still intact. With continued treatment, he will gradually recover," she said.


    Ethan, thoroughly impressed, smiled. "You''re very humble. We''ve invited numerous specialists before, and none have achieved what you just did," he said.


    He pulled a tissue from his pocket and helped wipe the sweat from Brenna''s forehead. "Thank you for your work. Let me treat you to lunchter."


    Brenna blinked, slightly caught off guard. She had been paid for the treatment, after all-she was just doing her job. Why was he thanking her like this?


    "There''s no need for that," she responded tly.


    The elders of the Mitchell family didn''t miss the exchange between Ethan and Brenna, but it was Emmett who paid the closest attention. He had been watching his son carefully and had already noticed how unusually attentive Ethan was toward Brenna, especially when he personally wiped the sweat from her forehead- somethingpletely out of character for him.


    2101


    now he


    If a woman tripped and scraped her knee in front of Ethan, he wouldn''t even spare her a nce. But now, was not only paying attention to Brenna but also personally caring for her.


    Ethan believed if his son was truly interested in this young doctor, then the two hundred million spent to bring the doctor here was well worth it.


    Meanwhile, Vincent''s mouth trembled as he struggled to form words. He looked at Brenna, wanting to ask if she had a boyfriend.


    The lingering effects of his hemiplegia made it difficult for him to control his facial muscles, rendering his speech garbled and incoherent. Frustrated, he tapped the bed with his hand, making a soft thud.


    "Dad!" Emmett and his brothers rushed over, rmed by the sudden movement. Concern filled their faces as they asked anxiously, "Are you feeling ufortable?"

 Wife, Now His Rival 28

    Chapter 28 Our Family Raised Her


    Vincent''s fingers trembling as he pointed toward Ethan. His voice, though weak, carried urgency. "Thank her..."


    Atst, the Mitchell family grasped the situation and let out a collective sigh of relief. Their initial fear that Vincent was in distress faded. They had feared that Brenna had hurt him while treating him earlier.


    Ethan held his grandfather''s frail hand. ¡°Grandpa, don''t worry. I''ll make sure Dr. Harper is properly thanked,"


    he said


    Vincent managed a slight nod, his approval clear. It wasn''t just Brenna''s striking eyes that left an impression on him her remarkable medical expertise spoke volumes. In his mind, she was a perfect match for his grandson. cing Ethan''s hand on the bedside, he tapped it twice, silently instructing him to stay put before reaching out toward Brenna. Having encountered simr cases before, Brenna quickly recognized his intent. Without hesitation, she extended her hand, understanding Vincent wanted her to do that.


    "Mr. Mitchell, rest assured. Over the next month, I''ll administer acupuncture daily. Your condition will improve steadily, and within a month, you''ll be able to walk again," Brenna said.


    Brenna offered Vincent a reassuring smile, making Vincent nod once more, even managing a faint smile. And then, to everyone''s astonishment, he sped Brenna''s hand and ced it in Ethan''s.


    With great effort, he struggled to say, "Grand... daughter... inw


    Ethan, more than willing to hear that, tightened his hold on Brenna''s hand. Seeing his grandfather in high spirits, he decided to seize the moment to break the news. With both hands now firmly sping Brenna''s, he said something that stunned the entire room


    "Grandpa, I have good news for you. Years ago, after Mr. Harper saved my father''s life, our families arranged a marriage alliance. Dr. Harper is a Harper family member. Once you''re fully recovered, I''ll marry her."


    A deep chuckle escaped Vincent''s lips, his frail shoulders trembling with joy. "Good... This is good."


    The rest of the Mitchell family exchanged nces, their expressions a mix of shock and disbelief. Could such a coincidence truly exist? Brenna was a member of the Harper family?


    Emmett, still processing the revtion, narrowed his eyes. "Ethan, is this true?" he asked.


    After all, neither of the Harper daughters-Rosie or Audrey-had any background in medicine. He distinctly recalled that both had studied finance and business.


    Noticing the surprise in everyone''s eyes, Ethan exined, "Mr. Shepard Harper has a daughter who went missing years ago. She''s the one. The Harper family just found her recently,"


    With that, the Mitchells now understood the situation. They recalled the Barrett family had stirred up


    trouble


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    2101


    Chapter 28 Our Family Raised Her


    earlier, and everything became clear to them now.


    Emmett let out a slow breath, nodding His mind drifted back to the usations from the Barretts, particrly their im that Brenna hadn''t evenpleted grade school. From the way things were unfolding, it was clear they had mistreated Brenna. He frowned, displeased by how poorly she had been treated. "Miss Harper, you grew up with the Barrett family?" he asked


    Brenna, now having taken off her mask, offered a polite nod. "Yes. I have even introduced myself properly Nice to meet you, Mr. Mitchell I''m Brenna Harper.¡±


    A new wave of approval swept through the Mitchells. Not only was Brenna stunning, but she was also brilliant and aplished. To be an expert in medicine despite such difficult circumstances spoke volumes about


    her resilience.


    A quiet sense of admiration settled over the Mitchell family.


    Meanwhile, standing just outside the door, Isabe and Ruby fumed with frustration.


    How had Brenna managed to secure such a good connection with the Mitchell family?


    Isabe had always believed that after losing Jordy as a fianc¨¦, Brenna would be doomed to a life of mediocrity. But now, Brenna was going to marry the wealthiest man in the world.


    No. She refused to let Brenna marry Ethan!


    "Mom! Look at this! How could this be happening?" she said to Ruby.


    But Ruby wasn''t thinking the same thing as her daughter. While Isabe stewed in resentment, Ruby saw an opportunity. If her adopted daughter married the son of the Mitchell family, her family could take advantage of the situation. They could y the role of Brenna''s gracious adoptive family, perhaps even secure powerful connections that would elevate their status


    A slow, calcting smile crept onto Ruby''s face, a stark contrast to Isabe''s angry expression.


    Isabe pouted. "Mom, why are you smiling? Have you forgotten how we treated her before? Now that she has the Mitchell family supporting her, she''ll want revenge! We can''t let her climb any higher; we have to stop her from marrying Mr. Mitchell!" she said.


    But Ruby had a different perspective. She said, "You don''t get it, Isabe. No matter how she feels about us, one thing remains true-our family raised her. She can''t erase that fact. If she turns her back on uspletely. she''ll be seen as an ungrateful person."


    Isabe scoffed, ¡°I don''t think you are right. She was nothing more than a servant in our home-worse than a maid. What right does she have to rise above us? Mom, I want her to crawl back to us in humiliation. And did you see the way she left yesterday? Do you honestly think she''s the kind to show gratitude? If anything we should be worried about how she ns to bring us down."


    Ruby sighed, exasperated by her daughter''s shortsightedness "You''re not looking at the big picture. If we y this right, we could gain so much more. And if we align ourselves with Brenna, you could end up marrying someone way better than Jordy!"


    The two went to stand outside Room 111, anticipating Brenna''s exit from Room 101, eager to mend ties and win


    her favor.


    2101


    Mere minutester, the Mitchell family walked Brenna to the door, treating her


    with atmost respect, while


    than personally apanied her toward the elevator

 Chapter 29

    Chapter 29 How Should I Repay You


    "Brenna, Brenna Ruby rushed toward frenna, her face stretched into an eager smile Afraid Brenna might brush past her, she reached out, gripping Brenna''s arm to stop her Brenna, how can you just walk past me without a word? That''s very impolite *


    Brenna watched Ruby''s exaggerated disy with a nk expression. She had already anticipated this-Ruby was trying to cozy up to her now that the Mitchell family held her in high regard. Ruby was shamelessly attempting to use her as a stepping stone to get closer to the Mitchell family.


    Unmoved, Brenna pressed her lips together into a thin line, unwilling to engage with Ruby


    Ruby faltered for a moment, but for the sake of her family''s future-and, more importantly, Isabe''s chances of marrying into wealth-she swallowed her pride and pressed on.


    "Mr. Mitchell," she continued in a sweet tone, "I heard what you said earlier. Look, Brenna''s biological parents are from some poor, rural ce. They have no money, no statuspletely unworthy of being associated with you. But Brenna? She''s so skilled in medicine, all thanks to our careful upbringing"


    Ethan''s face remained impassive, his expression as cold as ice. Since Brenna had chosen not to correct Ruby''s


    ims, he had no intention of doing it, either. He just remained silent.


    A few feet away, Isabe subtly adjusted herself, brushing a few strands of hair over her shoulder, ensuring she looked her best. She stood poised, hoping Ethan''s eyes would fall on her.


    She kept her lips curved in a polite smile, careful not to appear rude.


    Every so often, she stole nces at Ethan, hoping to catch even the slightest hint of admiration in his eyes.


    And then, it happened-Ethan nced in her direction. Her heart pounded, thrilled by the idea that he had finally noticed her. She straightened up, smiled dazzlingly, and even took a small step forward as if that would


    bring her into his view more fully.


    Ruby, oblivious to her daughter''s efforts, was fully invested in talking to Brenna and Ethan.


    "Brenna, don''t go back to the Harper family. You''ve been with us for twenty years- you''re used to our ways. Come back home, and I''ll give you the best room and buy you the finest clothes. That way, you''ll be a perfect match for Mr. Mitchell. You know the Harper family can''t provide that for you. Besides, you''ve called me "Mom" for more than two decades-I''ll even prepare a proper wedding gift for you, unlike your real parents, who probably can''t even swing anything decent for you........"


    "Mrs. Barrett, that won''t be necessary. The Harper family treats me well. There''s no need for any of that," Brenna said tly, casually pulling her arm from Ruby''s grasp and stepping back to create a deliberate distance


    between them.


    21:01


    0


    Ruby''s smile stiffened as Brenna took a step back Packed, she reached out again, desperate to gra arm "Oh, why are you calling me Mis Barrett? I''m your mother! Call me tom like you used to Wendy


    aren''t we?"


    Brenna let out a cold chuckle "Family? Don''t you think that''s a huge word? You refused to send the town. made me stay home designing car parts to earn money for you, and treated me like freebour and room y have the audacity to call us a family?"


    Watching the exchange, Ethan recalled the previous day-Brenna in cheap clothes worth barely two hundred dors, while Isabe unted herself in high-end designer attire.


    It was obvious how the Barrett family had exploited Brenna before. Now, they were desperately trying onto her because she had value to them.


    Disgusted, Ethan stepped forward, positioning himself between Brenna and Ruby "We have things to do," be said coldly. "We''ll be leaving now."


    Ruby forced another ingratiating smile, sensing Ethan''s displeasure but refusing


    to give up. "Mr. Mitchell, Brenna was raised by us. If you''re nning to marry her, shouldn''t you get our consent first? I''ve been Brenna''s mother for over two decades. How can you be so rude to me? Apologize to me, and I''ll let


    Ethan red at her. "You have the nerve to say you raised Brenna?"


    Ruby snorted and replied, "of course! If I hadn''t been so strict with her, how would she have be who she is today? Without me, would she even know medicine? Could she have treated your grandfather? She only these skills thanks to me. Or are you suggesting she magically learned everything overnight after moving in with the Harper family? Let''s be real-I raised her, and she has helped your family. My contributions can''t be ignored."


    Ruby lifted her chin with defiance and arrogance. There was no way she would let Brenna sever ties with the Barrett family now that Brenna had secured a good rtionship with the Barrett family


    She turned to Brenna expectantly. "Am I wrong? Didn''t I raise you? Shouldn''t you be grateful to me?"


    Brenna let out a quietugh. "You''re right. I should be grateful and repay you. Tell me, how should I repay you?"


    Ruby''s expression softened slightly. "That''s more like it."


    Brenna''s expression remained icy. She had no intention of maintaining any connection with the Barrett family. "Mrs. Barrett, over the years, I''ve made billions for the Barrett family. Without me, your business would still be a small workshop barely worth a few hundred thousand. The Barrett family has achieved everything they have now thanks to me. If we''re talking about repayment, I''d say I''ve already given you more than enough. When I walked out of your house yesterday, I made it clear-we''re even."


    After saying that, she stepped into the elevator,


    Ruby called after her desperately, "Brenna, don''t say that! No matter what, you''ll always be my daughter!"


    ADA

 Chapter 30

    Chapter 30 You''re The One Whom I Will Marry


    isabelle regained bot in thought, leading


    by bark into the hospital room with a displeased expression Deep


    down, she understood that we af han and Brenta weren''t engaged, she had no chance to be with Ethan. The


    if more she dwelled wit, the ment she felt Brenna should have been struggling after leaving the Berat family how had she managed to align herself with the prestigious Mitchell family?


    Toubelle wid, "Mom, Brenne only has some knowledge of medicine, which happens to be useful for Mr. Mall''s rowery That''s the only reason the Mitchell family values her. I doubt they truly consider her a maths for than They''re probably just being polite to her Once Mr. Mitchell recovers, Brenna will go back to being the same penniless woman from a small, insignificant town."


    Ruby cast a knowing look at isabe Unlike her daughter, she saw the potential in Brenna''s medical expertise and what it could mean for them.


    She said, ¡°Enough. We can''t afford topletely alienate her right now. Let''s see how things unfold before making any rash decisions"


    Though reluctant, Isabe nodded in agreement


    Inside the hospital elevator, Christopher trailed behind Brenna and Ethan like an eager shadow. He wanted to went about the Barrett family''s shameless behavior to Brenna but hesitated with Ethan was present.


    Ethan, too, had something on his mind. He wanted to invite Brenna to lunch, hoping to use the time to strengthen their rtionship. But with Christopher nearby, he held back.


    When the elevator doors slid open on the third floor, Christopher took the opportunity to excuse himself. "I''ve got patients to see I''ll catch up with youter,¡± he said to Brenna


    Brenna gave him a small, appreciative smile. "Alright, let''s stay in touch," she said.


    As a few more people stepped into the elevator, Ethan hesitated again. The presence of strangers made him


    more hesitant to invite Brenna for a meal.


    It wasn''t until they left the hospital building that Ethan finally spoke up. "Miss Harper, I sincerely apologize for everything that happened today I''d like to make it up to you with lunch. I''ve already made a reservation- please let me treat you"


    He studied her quietly, a faint smile ying on his lips. The more he looked at her, the more captivating she


    seemed to him


    Brenna, however, didn''t feel there was anything for him to apologize for. She had only been doing her job, and it was natural for people to doubt her abilities given her young age. Those doctors had already admitted their mistake and apologized


    mo


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    Chapter 30 You''re The One Whom I Will Marry


    As for the Barrett family''s behavior-that was their own doing, not something orchestrated by the Mitchells. There was no reason for than to feel responsible for


    that


    Before Brenna could respond, her phone vibrated with a medtage from Giselle, informing her that several clothing brands had delivered outfits for her to choose from.


    "That won''t be necessary. 1 was paid for my work, and encountering challenges along the way is you to make up for. Besides, I have matters to attend to at home now,"


    understandable. There''s nothing for


    Brenna said in a polite but firm voice.


    Ethan misread her refusal, assuming she was still upset with how the Mitchell family had treated her. He felt a pang of guilt, believing their arrangements had been dissatisfying and had made her ufortable.


    With sincerity, he said, "I understand. If you don''t want to have lunch with me, I won''t press the matter. But at least let me drive you home. It''s difficult to get a taxi at this hour."


    "Alright." Brenna hesitated briefly but ultimately agreed. It felt awkward to refuse such a considerate offer, especially from the wealthiest man in the world. If she rejected his kindness outright, it might seem like she was deliberately making things difficult for him.


    To her surprise, Ethan didn''t instruct his assistant to drive her home. Instead, he personally got behind the wheel, leaving his assistant behind.


    This unexpected turn left her momentarily unsure of where to sit. Sitting in the back seat felt inappropriate when the world''s richest man himself was driving. But sitting in the front-beside him-felt a bit awkward. In her mind, the front passenger seat was reserved for a man''s girlfriend or wife. Taking that spot made her


    ufortable.


    As she hesitated with her hand on the car door, Ethan looked at her with expectant eyes. "Sit up front. My passenger seat is always reserved for you," he said.


    His words only made Brenna more hesitant. The Harper and Mitchell families did have a marriage arrangement, but there were two other eligible daughters in her family. She had just returned, and it was unclear who the Mitchells had in mind for the marriage arrangement. Sitting next to Ethan felt a bit impropriate.


    "Mr. Mitchell, wouldn''t it be inappropriate for me to sit here?" Brenna said.


    "It''s perfectly fine. To me, you''re the one whom I will marry." Ethan said. With that,


    he stepped out of the driver''s seat, walked over, and gently ushered Brenna to the passenger seat.


    Throughout the drive, Brenna remained tense, feeling awkward and not knowing what to say.


    Ethan, inexperienced when it came to pursuing women, wasn''t sure how to initiate a conversation, either.


    When they arrived at the Harper family''s residence, Ethan parked the car but made no move to leave. Instead, he got out and walked Brenna to the entrance.


    Inside, the living room resembled a high-end boutique, with multiple clothing racks disying neatly arranged designer outfits. Rosie stood among them, enthusiastically picking out pieces while the housekeeper, Rachael, assisted by hanging her selections onto a separate rack.


    The moment Rosie spotted Ethan, she turned her attention to him and approached him with a dazzling smile. "Ethan, you''re here! I''ve picked a few outfits. Can you help me decide which ones look best?"


    40


    At the same time, Giselle approached Brenna, taking her hand with a motherly affection. ¡°Brenna,e take a look. See if there''s anything you like. I wasn''t sure about your style since you''ve been away from me for so


    many years."


    Brenna hadn''t even spoken when Ethan''s expression darkened slightly. Rosie had already picked out more than twenty outfits, leaving the remaining selection for Brenna. If Brenna were to choose from what was left. wouldn''t she be choosing the unwanted ones?


    FM

 Chapter 31

    Chapter 31 She Is Being So


    Inconsiderate


    Brenna surveyed the assortment of clothes before her. None of them interested her. During her years with the Barretts, new clothes had been a rarity, but she had never minded. Her time had been consumed by studying and sketching designs for the family, leaving little room for such concerns.


    Now that she finally had the freedom to choose, Rosie had already taken the finest selections. A flicker of annoyance passed through Brenna. She would rather walk away empty-handed than settle for leftovers


    Rosie, smug with satisfaction, caught the subtle shift in Brenna''s demeanor. Her n had worked-Brenna was clearly displeased.


    What did it matter if Ethan had personally escorted Brenna back? She still managed to make Brenna feel upset


    Rosie was determined to make sure Brenna felt unhappy.


    Sliding up beside her, Rosie looped her arm through Brenna''s with a show of warmth. Feigning an apologetic look, she said, "Brenna, I saw these clothes and figured you wouldn''t mind if I picked out a few for myself first. You don''t mind, do you?"


    She gestured to the remaining outfits and added, "There''s still plenty left for you. You won''t hold it against me for picking some clothes first, right?"


    The store''s selection was undoubtedly high-end, and Rosie''s taste was different from Brenna''s. But even though there were still some elegant pieces left that Brenna liked, she had no interest in getting what was left


    With a faint smile, Brenna eased her arm away, putting space between them. "I don''t mind," she replied. Rosie''s satisfaction deepened at the sight of Brenna''s restrained irritation. She had gotten to her. The clothes she had chosen were the most luxurious of the lot-not because she loved them but because she wanted to


    make a stance.


    "Go ahead and pick something," she said, her tone dripping with false generosity. Giselle approached, her expression tinged with guilt. She had known it was unfair to let Rosie choose first, but Rosie''s enthusiasm had made it difficult to deny her. Besides, she didn''t want Rosie to feel overlooked just because Brenna was now part of the family.


    So, she had allowed Rosie to choose first, a pang of guilt tugging at her for Brenna.


    Caught in the middle, she said cautiously, "Brenna, go ahead and pick a few. These are all thetest styles this


    year."


    ere''s no need. The clothes my friend Brenna''s faint smile barely concealed the disappointment in her eyes. "There''s no brought over yesterday are more than enough for me. When I was with the Barretts, I only had two outfits. Now,


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    21.01


    <


    Chapter 31 She is Being So Inconsiderate


    I have more than I ever did back then, and that''s enough for me


    But Giselle wasn''t convinced. Before she could say anything. Rosie spoke, sounding aggrieved. "Brenna, are you upset just because 1 picked first? I couldn''t help myself when I gaw these. I only chose a few, but if it bothers you, I''ll put them back."


    Tears gathered in her eyes as she hesitated, then reluctantly returned the clothes she had taken, acting as if it pained her to do so


    When she turned back to Brenna, her tears had already begun to fall. "It''s fine, Brenna Mom wants you to have


    the first pick. I won''t take anything-it''s all yours


    Rosie''s tears were just for show, and inwardly, she reveled in satisfaction. She never cared about the clothes


    She only wanted to annoy Brenna


    Brenna was visibly irritated by Rosie''s antics. "There''s no need," she said coldly. Her expression turned even frostier. "If you want them, keep them. I won''t take any of them."


    Rosie''s eyes gleamed with victory. "Really? You''re not interested in the bags or the shoes, either?"


    Brenna gave a brief nod. "I don''t care about these things."


    Rosie nced over, only to find Ethan''s face chillingly cold, his sharp eyes fixed on the Harper family members, clearly displeased with the way they were treating Brenna.


    Heart pounding, Rosie stepped forward, quickly saying, "Ethan, look at her. I only picked a few things, and now she refuses to take anything Everyone has different tastes. It''s not like I intentionally took what she wanted Why can''t she just choose a few? My mother went through all this trouble for her, yet she''s still not satisfied. I really don''t know how else we''re supposed to do to please her."


    She then let out a dramatic sigh "Maybe she''s just used to being frugal after living with the Barretts. She doesn''t understand how things work in the Harper family. With all the events we attend, she''ll need a variety of outfits. If she refuses to pick anything, she''ll end up wearing the same clothes repeatedly. People might even think our Harper family is mistreating her. She is being so inconsiderate."


    As she spoke, she moved closer to Ethan, her shoulder brushing against his


    Noticing this, Ethan took a step away from her, dusting off his sleeve as if wiping away dirt. His voice remained calm as he said, "You are considerate? You chose clothes for yourself first even when you knew they were for your sister."


    Then, without hesitation, he stepped forward and took Brenna''s arm. "Brenna, I know a few fashion design studios. I''ll take you there to select some clothes." He turned to the Harper family members. "I''ll handle my fianc¨¦e''s needs myself. There''s no need for your assistance."


    Rosie was shocked after hearing that and eximed, "What? Your fianc¨¦e?"


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 e, Now His Rival 32

    Chapter 32 I''d Like To Marry Brenna


    Ethan''s offer gave Brenna an easy way out, and she genuinely appreciated it. In fact, this was the most considerate thing he had done for her since they met.


    At that moment, she made up her mind-if Ethan bought her clothes, she wouldn''t ept them as a gift. She would find a way to pay him back.


    "Alright, let''s go now," Brenna said, stepping toward Ethan. Ethan extended his arm, and Brenna slipped hers through it with effortless grace, a bright smile lighting up her face.


    Rosie stood frozen. Her first instinct was to yank Brenna away from Ethan, and she did that. She then clenched her fists and snapped, "Ethan, how can you be so reckless? You barely know her! Do you even realize what kind of person she is? She is someone vain! I only picked a few things, and she threw a tantrum over it. Someone so petty doesn''t deserve you!"


    Brenna turned to her, eyes sharp. "If I''m petty, then you''re downright malicious. You know I don''t have many clothes, yet despite having an overflowing wardrobe, you still try to take what little I have. You just wanted to hurmiliate me, making me choose from the clothes you left behind. Don''t think I don''t see exactly what you''re


    doing


    "You..." Rosie was caught off guard. She had assumed Brenna was too na?ve to recognize her schemes-or at least too meek to call them out. But Brenna had called her out in front of everyone, without hesitation or concern for the consequences.


    After a pause, she said, "You misunderstood me! I already said I didn''t want them and let you pick. Since you refused, that''s on you! How can you me me for any of this?"


    "Enough! You''re all making a fuss over a few clothes. This is absurd!" At some point, Luther had stepped out of the elevator, resting on his cane, his expression dark as he red at Rosie. Without warning, he strode forward and swung his cane at her.


    "Grandpa, what are you doing... Rosie yelped, but she didn''t dare dodge. She endured several strikes, her body jerking from the pain. ¡°Grandpa, I just don''t like the clothes in my closet anymore!"


    This time, she was genuinely upset. Luther had always spoiled her the most, giving her extra pocket money and treats, making sure she never felt abandoned after losing her parents.


    Yet now, because of Brenna, he was punishing her. Tears welled up in Rosie''s eyes and streamed down her face as she said, "I knew it! Ever since my parents died, no one in this family cares about me anymore..."


    "Enough of that nonsense!" Luther eximed in anger. "Who in this family doesn''t care about you? Your uncles treat you like their own daughter, and yet, you take advantage of their kindness, constantly testing their patience. Hasn''t your aunt been good to you? And now that her real daughter is back, she just wants to make


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    Chapter 32 I''d Like To Marry Brenna


    up for lost time. But you want to interfere in the matter. You''re


    She''s Aunt Giselle to you, and you''ll address your uncle properly as well From now on, atg


    Luther''s hand trembled with anger as he mmed his cane against the floor. As the familly''s lead to have a duty to be fair, and he couldn''t allow Rosie to continue mistreating Brenna


    Brenna, watching Luther stand up for her-even going so far as to hit Rosie-Selta wave of erosion stepping forward, she said softly, "Grandpa, please don''t be upset. These clothes se puster Sex"


    Hearing that, Giselle approached Brenna, her expression carrying a hint of guilt "Brenne go ahead and choose


    a few. In the afternoon, I''ll take you shopping"


    Brenna gave her a nod. "Alright, let''s do that"


    Watching as Brenna''s coldness gradually thawed and the distance between Brenna and Gisele Sided Lutber finally felt a sense of relief.


    Meanwhile, Rosie ran off crying, her hands covering her face.


    Rachael nced at the clothes Rosie had left behind and considered bringing them to her However, the stap thud of Luther''s cane against the floor made her halt immediately, forcing her to abandon the idea


    Ethan, quietly observing the room full of clothes, quickly grasped the situation- Brenna''s wardrobe was severelycking Though he refrained from bringing up the idea of taking her shopping again, be watched as she selected a few items, memorizing her preferred styles, colors, and her size


    After a moment, he approached Luther, assisting him to the sofa before speaking politely. "Mr. Harper, I know our families have a marriage agreement. I''d like to marry Brenna."


    He hesitated briefly over how to refer to Brenna, and calling her by her first name felt natural


    Luther met Ethan''s gaze with a steady look and said, "Ethan, I''ve watched you grow up. Marriage is a lifelongmitment. You''ve only known Brenna for a few days-are you sure you''re not acting on impulse now? I hope you''ll take the time to think this through carefully."


    Ethan''s expression remained unwavering as he said, "Mr. Harper, I''mpletely serious. I''ve been aware of our families'' marriage agreement for years, but I never felt strongly about it before. But now that I''ve met Brenna, I''m certain-she''s the one I want to marry."


    >> Phantom Painese Dieng fi

 Chapter 33

    Chapter 33 Do You Have A


    n


    Rachael overheard Ethan and Luther talking and fete a kose of andery Serena ne smeteor hesitation, she hurried upstairs to find Rosie


    She found Rosie in the bedroom, furiously hurling a pillow across foresem with ser face aloud with anger and teeth clenched, she spat out, "I wish you''d just go away, Bras


    Rachael''s heart ached at the sight "Rosie, don''t do this. Your parents would be hearforsen seeing you or the


    Rosie grabbed the pillow and threw it again, harder this time. Tears streaming down her See the sores. "They all bully me, just because I don''t have real parents


    kind, treating me like family. But you''ve see


    anymore. And Aunt Giselle isn''t any better. was just a stand-in. Now that her real


    call her Mom anymore, Rachael"


    what is happening


    Rachael gently took the pillow from Rosie''s hands and ced it back on the bed Town, she sat down across from her and looked at her tear-streaked face


    her own daughter. Even Luther is siding with Brenna now if you don''t start thinking dearly and nning to do something, there won''t be a ce for you in this family" Rosie''s sobs grew heavier. "What can I do? They''re real mother and daughter" Rachael''s eyes hardened. She pulled a tissue from her pocket and wiped


    1. me. From now on, treat your aunt Giselle like she''s your real mom. Keep calling


    oppose Brenna anymore. Not only should you avoid going against


    Everyone''s watching. If you try anything reckless, they''ll see right through your scheme."


    Rosie blinked in surprise. "Do you have a n?"


    Rachael''s lips curled into a cold smile. "You understand they''re real mother and daughter, but you''re still acting recklessly? You need to think before you make a move. I overheard Mr. Mitchell downstairs talking to Luther about the marriage between your family and the Mitchell family. He wants to marry Brenna That''s our biggest problem right now. We need to stop him from marrying Brenna."


    Rosie''s heart pounded. She had just heard Ethan call Brenna his fianc¨¦e, but she still couldn''t understand how he had fallen for her so quickly. Two days. That was all it took.


    What had Brenna done to make Ethan choose her?


    A wave of panic surged through Rosie. For years, she had clung to one dream-to marry Ethan, the wealthiest man in the world. With him being her husband, she would never have to worry about anything. No more fear of being cast aside. No more being at the mercy of others


    2102


    "Rachael, what should I do? Even my grandfather is on Brenna''s side now. If I tell him that I want to marry. Ethan, he won''t support me," Rosie said.


    Rachael hadn''t found a solution yet, but one thing was for sure-Rosie''s approach earlier wasn''t working.


    She said, "That''s exactly why you need to stop going after Brenna so openly. If you keep this up, the entire Harper family will side with her."


    Rosie crossed her arms and pouted. "I''m not giving up.


    She tightened her grip on her phone and ran through the list of family members in her mind. Not everyone. was on Brenna''s side. A thought struck her. Without that, she sent a message to Ernst, asking him toe


    home early for dinner.


    That afternoon, Brenna decided not to go shopping with Giselle. The clothes Luca had sent over yesterday, along with the ones she had picked out today, totaled over a hundred outfits. They were more than enough for


    her.


    Giselle, still carrying a sense of guilt, asked for Brenna''s bank ount number and transferred fifty million to her. Along with that, she discreetly slipped a few property deeds into Brenna''s hands, all registered under her


    name.


    Brenna was moved by that. She wanted to call Giselle "Mom", but the words caught in her throat.


    As evening settled in, Ernst returned home early. After a quick shower, he made his way to the dining room. The Harper family gathered around the dinner table. The meal was stillvish, butpared to the previous night''s feast, it was simpler.


    Rosie descended the stairs with Ernst, then made a point to sit beside Brenna. With a bright, almost exaggerated enthusiasm, she said, "Ernst, let me introduce someone to you. This is Mom and Dad''s real daughter-your sister, Brenna, She grew up in the Barrett family and had a difficult childhood. Now that she''s back, we need to make it up to her."


    When Ernst heard the words "make it up to her¡°, his lips curled into a mocking smile.


    So what if Brenna had suffered outside the family before? Did that mean everyone at home was supposed to bend over backward for her now? Did it justify Brenna bullying Rosie? Brenna had even refused to let Rosie have some clothes she liked. That was outrageous!


    Brenna nced at Rosie, puzzled. They had argued that afternoon over clothes, yet now, Rosie acted as if nothing had happened. Not only was she sitting beside her, but she was also introducing her to Ernst warmly.


    Could Rosie really be this kind?


    Brenna pushed her doubts aside and offered Ernst a polite smile. Then, she greeted him.


    Rosie turned to Brenna with the same enthusiasm. "Brenna, this is our older brother, Ernst He oversees hundreds ofpanies under the Harper Group. He is always busy and rarelyes home, but he made the effort toe home these days just to see you. See how great he is to you?"


    Brenna nced at Ernst and caught the unmistakable coldness in his gaze. There was neither warmth nor joy


    21.02


    Chapter 311s You Have A Pau


    at reuniting with his real sister. Instead, he was studying her, as if sizing up a stranger


    Then, out of nowhere, Ernst spoke "You look great in that outfit"


    Brenna was caught off guard by that. She didn''t understand what he meant by


    that.

 Chapter 34

    21.02


    Chapter 34 Fak¨¦ Certificates


    Brenna studied Ernst, noting the enldness in his expression and the der sarcasm in his w


    he eyes offering apliment if anything, he seemed to be mocking her for being materialne


    She couldn''t fathom why Ernst harbored such dislike for her, especially since they had barely spolom


    When they met for the first time yesterday, he had been dismissive, and today, although he spoke to her, s words wereced with sharpness. Compared to Rosie, this vice president of the Harper Group was far more


    Brenna''s eyes dropped to the outfit Giselle had chosen for her earlier that day. The casual yet slightly my boy Inspired T-shirt and jeans gave her a youthful, almost high school student appearance


    in


    Feigning ignorance to the sarcasm in Ernst''s voice, she smiled lightly. "Mom picked it for me tot bad, nghe


    Ernst scoffed inwardly. Brenna was too naive and stupid to catch onto his sarcass


    with nothing more to say.


    her response lett


    Dropping the topic of the money spent on her clothes, he turned his attention to her past with the Barrett


    family.


    He said, "I heard things didn''t go well for you there and that you didn''t even finish elementary school How did that happen? Even if you struggled academically, you should have at least attended school. Luckily, the Harper family has enough money to support you now, so that won''t be an issue. But what if your biological parents had been poor? How would you have made a living then?"


    He stared at Brenna with open disdain, making no effort to mask his disapproval as he waited for her to exin herself


    Originally, he had intended to prepare avish gift to wee his sister home. However, before Brenna even set foot in the house, Rosie had ended up hospitalized because of her, and she had ordered clothes worth thirty million without consulting the family


    It wasn''t that the Harper family was unwilling to spend money¡ªrather, it was Brenna''s approach that rubbed Ernst the wrong way. If she had simply mentioned


    it beforehand, the elders would have dly covered the cost


    What truly irritated him was herck of consideration.


    That afternoon, when several luxury brands had delivered clothing, Rosie had attempted to pick out a few pieces, only for Brenna to refuse. This had led to their grandfather scolding Rosie, and Brenna''s overbearing attitude was difficult to tolerate.


    Brenna let out a soft chuckle before responding. ¡°Do you really think I am useless?"


    …º


    21 02


    [1]


    Chapter 34 Fake Carifcates


    It was bing clear how Ernst viewed her-dim-witted, materialistic, and vain


    Brenna continued, "You can manage to think better of me, can''t you? You are my brother after all."


    Without waiting for a reply, she turned and headed upstairs.


    Gaselle, unable to understand why Ernst was treating his sister this way, said to him, "What''s wrong with you? You didn''t even prepare a wee gift for your sister, and now, you''re sking to her like this? You''ve upset her go and apologize to her."


    Shepard backed her up with a stern tone. "Apologize to your sister. She''s been through enough with the Barrett family. The fact that she didn''t finish elementary school isn''t something she wants to discuss Bringing it up like that was unnecessary. Is this how you prefer to treat your own sister?"


    Rosie, watching the scene unfold, suppressed augh. Brenna was proving easier to deal with than expected- she hadn''t even needed to use the tricks she had prepared.


    For now, she simply sat back and waited for the right moment to speak and add fuel to the fire.


    "I''m not apologizing." Ernst said tly, no longer bothering to conceal his attitude. "It''s not about the money- we can afford it but she had thirty million worth of clothes delivered without saying a word to us. A little heads-up would have been nice. Honestly, I don''t think she''s really one of us. Mom, Dad, maybe we should get


    a DNA test."


    Just as he finished speaking, Brenna, who had returned downstairs, rolled her eyes at his words. So this was how he truly saw her.


    Ernst stiffened slightly when he saw Brenna, realizing she had overheard him, but he wasn''t about to back


    down.


    Brenna ced a stack of documents on the table. "My education is not what the Barretts say. I wasn''t nning to bring it up, but since you all seem to be doubtful of me, I have no choice but to show you."


    The entire Harper family turned their attention to the topmost paper-a graduation certificate.


    Rosie was the first to snatch the top document, only to freeze when she saw that it was a master''s degree from a prestigious university. Before she could process


    it, Ernst grabbed the second certificate-another master''s degree from a globally renowned university


    Both of them sat there in stunned silence, unable to believe what they were seeing


    Rosie, unable to filter her thoughts, blurted out, "You were so desperate to hide the fact that you never even


    right?" finished elementary school that you bought fake certificates,


    The name of the university on the certificate was one she had applied to multiple times but had never been epted into Money alone wasn''t enough to secure admission there.


    Brenna had lived a difficult life with the Barrett family-how could they possibly have afforded to send her overseas for advanced studies?


    "As far as I know, tuition at that school isn''t cheap, Rosie continued. The Barretts treated you horribly, so where did you even get the money for studying there? I highly doubt these are real."


    Scoffing she tossed the certificate aside.


    21


    < Chapter 4


    Ernst, having thoroughly examined the documents, passed them to their grandfarber


    Luther put on his reading sses, refully inspecting the remificates se expression edhe eyes gleamed with approval A pleased smile spread across his far he said, "Brain exceptional to wonder she is a Harper"


    Meanwhile, Shepard and Giselle flipped through the remaining documents, dvering an entire cotection of awards from internationalpetitions The stack was thick, filled with evidence of Brenna''s achevements Giselle brimmed with emotion "My child, despite all the hardships you endured with the Barrett, you''ve aplished so much You''ve surpassed both of your brothers. Even our eldest, the smartest in the family. didn''t finish his master''s until he was twenty four. And here you are, holding dual master''s degrees at just eighteen. You''re the pride of our family


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 Chapter 35

    Chapter 35 Competition


    Brenna sat backfortably, her smile unwavering as she responded, "The Barrett family recognized my potential in design and chose to have me focus on their business instead of school If I had taken the conventional route, i would have graduated much earlier. "


    Rosie refused to ept this and turned to Gaselle. "Mom, don''t be fooled! She probably bought these certificates!"


    she eximed.


    Then, she sneered at Brenna, saying, "You''re shameless, using fake documents to deceive Mom and Dad!"


    Brenna remained unfazed. Take a closer look. Each certificate has a serial number and an official seal. You can verify them online. Is it really so hard to believe that someone else achieved what you couldn''t?"


    Rosie shoved her aside and quickly began checking on her phone.


    Brenna then turned to Ernst. "Do you doubt the authenticity of my certificates, too?"


    Ernst flipped through a few of them. Though he found it hard to believe, he knew they were genuine.


    "No. 1 misjudged you." He cast a sidelong nce at Rosie, annoyed that she had spoken without proof, almost making a fool of him.


    However, he still wasn''t entirely convinced of Brenna''s abilities and maintained a distant demeanor. "The Harper Group has a car manufacturing division that''s holding a designpetition with a ten-million-dor prize. Since you''ve won so many awards in mechanical design, why not participate in thepetition?" Brenna''s patience with him finally ran out. She could tell that until she stumbled, he wouldn''t stop testing her. She said, "Sure. As my brother, you should support me. If I win first ce, what reward will you give me?" Ernst smirked, sensing an opportunity to put Brenna in her ce. "Those awards and certificates you have only reflect your past, not your current skills or future potential How about this-if you manage to win this time, even if it''s just third ce or an excellence award, I''ll give you one percent of the Harper Group''s shares. What do you say?"


    Luther nodded in agreement. "That''s good. Every family member has shares in the Harper Group except Brenna. She is exceptionally gifted and has endured years of hardship. If she wins, I''ll also award her one percent of the


    shares."


    Tessa smiled warmly. "Go for it, Brenna. Grandma is rooting for you."


    Shepard said, ¡°Brenna, I believe in you as well. Win or lose, I''ll give you two percent of the shares."


    Rosie''s face paled. After years of trying to earn the family''s favor, she had only managed to secure 05 percent of the shares. Yet, Brenna was about to receive four percent just like that-shares worth tens of billions!


    "I want to enter thepetition, too! If I win, will I get shares?" Rosie demanded


    21.02


    Shepard said immediately, "You don''t have a background in mechanical design Why would you participate in


    thatpetition?"


    Frustrated, Rosie stemped her foot. Then why does she get so much when I only have o 5 percent) tr''e unfair If you won''t let mepete, then you shouldn''t be giving her that many thares, either


    Her eyes locked onto Brenns, filled with resentment "You wouldn''t be that greedy, would you? Do you even understand how much one percent of the Harper Group''s shares is worth? Do you know how much annual dividend that brings? You should refuse this right now!


    Brenna met Rosie''s re with a calm smirk. "You think this is unfair? Then participate in thepetition f you win, I''m sure they il consider giving you shares, too


    Ableson, who had been reviewing the certificates, looked at Brenna with newfound respect "Brenna clearly has a gift for automotive design. If she wins, I fully support her joining the Harper Group''s automotive division."


    His wife, Jillian Harper, flipped through the documents and nodded approvingly. "Winning so many prestigious international awards at such a young age-thepany needs talent like hers. And since she''s family, granting her shares is only fitting"


    Luther looked at Brenna with a smile. "Such remarkable talent shouldn''t be wasted. Brenna, I believe in you in achieving great things in the Harper Group."


    Rosie clenched her fists as she watched Brenna bask in their praise. Her resentment deepened. "I don''t care-I want to participate in thepetition, too!"


    Rosie was determined to find a way to stop Brenna from iming such arge share of the family business. She couldn''t let this happen.


    Her eyes scanned the elders before settling on Brenna. ¡°If I win and my award ranks higher than yours, those shares should go to me instead. Do you agree?" She met Brenna''s gaze, her expression filled with hostility and challenge. "Alright, Brenna said without hesitation.


    But Rosie wasn''t satisfied. She wanted more. "If you lose to me, not only will the Harper Group shares go to me, but you''ll never be able to work for thepany- ever."


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    21.02

 Chapter 36

    Chapter 36 There Is No Way She Is Going To Let.....


    Giselle intervened and gently said, "Alright, everyone. Let''s stop arguing and sit down to enjoy our meal


    together as a family


    But Ernst had no intention of letting the matter drop. He pulled out an award certificate, the most prestigious one Brenna had, and ced it on the table. Then, he turned to her and said skeptically, I''ve seen the designs from the Barrett Group. Honestly, they''re average at best. Brenna, didn''t you im to have designed all of Barrett''s products? Because if this is the standard of the products, I have to say, it''s unimpressive. Logically speaking, something like this shouldn''t have won an international award. I think Rosie''s suspicions earlier were not without reason. Are you sure these certificates are real?"


    Brenna met his gaze without flinching and calmly replied, "The Barrett Group''s resources are limited. They can''t afford to produce high-end products."


    Ernst let out a short, dismissive snort. Clearly, he wasn''t buying her exnation. He said, "Well, I''ll be watching your performance in the designpetition." Rosie shot Brenna a sharp re. "Brenna, a few certificates don''t prove much. They could''ve been bought by you. I will wait until your true abilities are revealed."


    Brenna remained unfazed. She spread her hands and shrugged. ¡°You''re right. They don''t prove much. But do you even have any?"


    burn


    Rosie''s smirk faltered. She let out a snort and sat down, realizing she had no awards of her own to counter


    Brenna''s im.


    But so what? She had studied abroad and earned a master''s in finance. That was something.


    Earlier, she had noticed that Brenna had a finance degree, too. A slow, calcting smile tugged at the corners of her lips. Even if Brenna ended up with money and thepany shares in the future, she would guide her into bad investments, subtly influencing her decisions. Then, when the time was right, she would find a way to make Brenna hand over her shares entirely.


    "Don''t get too smug." Rosie muttered. "It''s still uncertain who wille out on top."


    Ernst felt irritated as he watched Brenna''sposed, almost smug demeanor. She had deliberately brought out her graduation and award certificates and put them on disy for everyone to see. He knew exactly what h was doing. She had made him feel embarrassed.


    His impression of Brenna worsened. This so-called sister of his wasn''t just wasteful-throwing around money without considering the family''s feelings; she was also very arrogant. But what really bothered him was how she had readily epted the shares being offered to her, as if they had always belonged to her. The entitlement, the greed-it was all too obvious.


    21:02


    Unable to hold back, Ernst asked Brenna, "And what if you don''t win?"


    "Simple. If I don''t win, I''ll give up every single share Dad, Grandpa, and you gave me. I won''t take a penny from the family. Not now, not ever," Brenna responded without hesitation.


    She let out a coldugh and added, "Isn''t that what you want?¡±


    Ernst''s intentions had beenid bare, but he didn''t flinch. He met her with unwavering confidence and


    said, "You better keep your word."


    Luther shot Ernst a sharp look. "As an older brother, why can''t you be more amodating to your sister? You''re pushing her to give up all her rights. Fine. If that''s how it''s going to be, then I have a request, too. If she wins first ce, you have to step down from your position at the Harper Group!" he said in amanding Novoice.


    As an elder, he held back from saying anything harsher, but his disappointment was clear.


    Shepard nodded in agreement. He also believed Ernst''s attitude was wrong, and it was time he learned a lesson.


    Ernst''s expression darkened. His grip tightened around his fork as he shot Brenna a look of pure distaste. Because of her, he now stood to lose his position as vice president of the Harper Group.


    Across the table, Rosie red at Brenna, her eyes burning with determination. There was no way she was going to let Brenna win. Not if it meant Ernst losing his ce in thepany.


    Before the tension could escte further, Giselle stood up and calmly began removing the certificates from the table. "Enough, everyone. Stop arguing. Let''s eat."


    Brenna took the certificates from Giselle and put them on the chair beside her, deciding not to waste any more


    words on Ernst.


    Giselle turned to her and said with concern, "Brenna, the Barrett family has been exploiting you. Surely, they


    manage before?" wouldn''t have paid for your overseas education. How did you


    She already knew the answer, but she asked the question anyway, hoping to stir more sympathy toward Brenna from the family.


    Later that evening, after taking a shower, Brenna checked the stock market. Without hesitation, she invested all the money she had earned over the past two days.


    Just then, a knock came at the door. Giselle stepped inside, carrying a cardboard box. She nced at Brenna''s screen and immediately understood what she was doing She just felt that Brenna''sputer looked so heavy.


    She ced the box on the table and smiled warmly. "I noticed yourputer looks old and heavy. It''s probably outdated. So, I bought you a new one. It''s the best model on the market."


    Brenna wanted to call her "Mom", but the word caught in her throat. Still, the gratitude she felt for Giselle ran deep. Just one look at the productbel on the box told her this was the most advancedputer on the market. Giselle was really treating her well. Brenna couldn''t help but notice how differently Giselle was t her than her foster mother.


    "Thank you," Brenna said with a smile before immediately unpacking the newputer.


    Giselle watched her and then asked, "Are you really going to participate in that car designpetition?"


    21 02


    §à


    Telesed Note gestion he the Harper


    how & em tecidy day we think

 Chapter 37

    Chapter 37 Do You Dare ept My Challenge


    Giselle looked at Brenna with concern. "Rosie and Ernst didn''t act appropriately today I''ll speak with them.ter. It wasn''t fair for them to pressure you into thispetition Winning first ce will be no easy fea even securing a spot in the top ten globally will be an immense challenge But don''t worry I''ll make sure Ernst and Rosie apologize to you. As for the promised shares, I''ll see to it that your father follows through


    Brenna was already familiar with this designpetition-her studio had already signed up to participan


    She said to Giselle, "There''s no need for that. I want to prove myself on my own terms. I don''t want them to


    look down on me."


    Giselle was left with no choice. She could only nod. After all, she couldn''t tell her daughter that she believed she had no chance of winning thepetition


    The next morning, Brenna had just stepped into the dining room when Rosie entered, carrying an invitation She set it down in front of Brenna with an air of arrogance.


    She said, "I have to admit, I didn''t expect you to have so many awards. But in high society, talent alone isn''t enough-you need to be well-rounded. There''s an equestrianpetition happening today. I am inviting you to go. It will broaden your horizons."


    Brenna picked up the invitation, ncing at the elegant design. The event was scheduled for July 15th-today


    "Fine. I''ll make sure to be there on time," she said.


    Rosie''s lips curled into a knowing smile. "You actually dared to agree? Interesting. I look forward to seeing you there. I''ve already signed you up for thepetition "


    Brenna raised a brow. "Isn''t this the finals? Can people still join thepetition now?"


    Rosie''s tone turned condescending as she said, "This is what I meant about yourck of knowledge of high society. Thispetition is organized by a group of wealthy enthusiasts. It has prestige, but it''s not an official international event. For families like ours, we can enter whenever we want."


    So that was how it was? Brenna wasn''t as familiar with these social events.


    Brenna tilted her head slightly. "Are youpeting as well?" she asked.


    She never took Rosie for the athletic type-


    Rosie, however, responded confidently, "Of course. It''s a major social event in high society-why wouldn''t I participate?"


    21.02


    Chapter 37 Do You Dare ept My Challenge


    After a light breakfast, Brenna stepped outside, where Ethan''s car was already waiting


    After Brenna treated Vincent at the hospital, Ethan personally drove her back


    "There''s a horse race today. Want to go and watch it" he asked Brenna, standing beside his car.


    Brenna nced at him. "You are also going?" she asked.


    She regretted the question the moment she asked it. Horse racing was a staple event among the elite, so of course, than would be there.


    Sure enough, Ethan nodded. "Just going for the fun of it. We can go together," he said.


    Before long, they arrived at the racecourse.


    Thergest racecourse in Shirie spanned over five hundred thousand square meters, boasting top-tier facilities and a 1, 600-meter track. Built by a group of wealthy investors, the ce had cost billions, ensuring only the


    finest amenities.


    Even the basic membership fee started at a million.


    Ethan guided Brenna straight to the VIP section, which was tastefully decorated and stocked with an assortment of refreshments. The service was impable, and a crowd had already gathered by the floor-to-ceiling windows, watching the riders and their horses.


    Some guests were using electronic devices to ce bets on their favoritepetitors,


    Just then, two staff members approached, each handing Brenna and Ethan a tablet.


    Ethan and Brenna leaned in, scrolling through the list ofpetitors on the tablet


    "Just pick whoever catches your eye. Winning or losing doesn''t really matter," Ethan said casually


    Just then, his phone rang. After answering the call, he returned the tablet to the staff member and turned to Brenna. "Something urgent came up. Stay here-I''ll be back soon."


    Brenna nodded. "Okay."


    "Didn''t expect to see you in a ce like this." A sharp, mocking voice echoed from behind Brenna. She turned to find Isabe and Jordy approaching, arms linked, sses of red wine in hand.


    Jordy looked at Brenna''s outfit, clearly noting its high quality.


    He said, "You really move fast, don''t you? Barely three days after leaving the Barrett family, you''ve alreadytched onto a rich man. I don''t understand it-Mr. Mitchell could have any woman he wants. Why would he like someone like you?" Heughed, his voice full of disdain.


    Brenna nced at him, irritated by his jabs. "And yet, despite knowing he likes me, here you are, daring to me like that."


    Jordy''s expression darkened. He pointed at her furiously. "Don''t get ahead of yourself. With your looks, Mr. Mitchell won''t stay interested in you for more than a week. Care to bet on it?" he said.


    Isabe''s bitterness only deepened. The Barrett family had invited Brenna to dinner yesterday, but she hadn''t


    40.21%


    2102


    Chapter 37 Do


    to You Dare ept My Challenge


    even bothered to answer their call. She acted as if they didn''t matter at all. "Why waste time betting with her?" Isabe scoffed. "Let me tell you-Mr. Mitchell isn''t interested in her. She only got this far because she treated Mr. Mitchell''s grandfather. That''s the only reason he''s being nice to her. He only showed her around here. Didn''t you see him leave just now?"


    Her expression grew smug as she swirled the wine in her ss. "I thought he treated you specially, but I guess it''s nothing impressive after all Brenna, I challenge you to participate in the race. Do you dare ept my challenge?" she said.


    She was certain Brenna didn''t know how to ride a horse, and if Brenna tried, she''d only end up embarrassing -or even injuring-herself.

 Chapter 38

    Chapter 38 See You At The Competition


    Isabe cast a disdainful nce at Brenna. In her eyes, there was nothing extraordinary about her. Sure, she had good looks, a bit of medical knowledge, and some design talent But beyond that, there wasn''t much to her


    The Barrett family had raised Brenna for years, yet they had never invested in her growth-to extracurricr activities and no specialized training-nothing that nurtured her potential Given that, the fact that Brenna had achieved any level of sess in both design and medicine was surprising


    What irritated Isabe the most was Brenna''s so-called design talent. She had seen Brenna''s work, and opinion, it was mediocre at best. The Barrett Group specialized in mid-to-low-end auto parts, so naturally.


    Brenna had experience designing within that range


    But high-end automobiles? That was an entirely different level. There was no way Brenna could handle that


    And as for Brenna''s medical skills, Isabe remained skeptical. It was probably just luck. Her parents had never even seen Brenna study medicine, so at most, she had a basic understanding Nothing significant


    The thought of this made Isabe feel better. She eagerly waited for Brenna''s response and decided to push things a little further. With a smirk, she threw out a casual but pointed remark. "You can''t ride a horse, right?"


    She then burst intoughter and looked at Brenna with evident disdain


    Jordy, just as arrogant, chimed in arrogantly, "I knew it! You can''t ride a horse! You should just stay by Mr. Mitchell''s side and continue to be useless "


    Brenna caught the smugness in their voices and felt a sharp urge to put them in their ce. She tilted her head slightly and asked, "Do you both know how to ride?"


    She had no doubt that Jordy could. After all, he came from a rich family, where horseback riding was a standard social skill learned from a young age. But Isabe? Her background wasn''t as privileged. If the rumors were true, her family was fairly ordinary and likely hadn''t had the means to cultivate such expensive hobbies. Sure enough, Isabe''s confident smirk faltered for a split second. She exchanged a quick nce with Jordy, and something shed in her eyes. But just as quickly, she lifted her chin and said, "Who says I don''t know how to ride a horse?"


    The truth was, she had only started taking lessonsst week. At best, she could manage a slowp around the arena without falling off But she wasn''t about to admit that


    Brenna raised an eyebrow "Really? If your riding skills are that good, why isn''t your name on thepetitor list?" she asked.


    She had no idea how skilled Isabe actually was, but she deliberately provoked her, knowing it would put her in a difficult position


    100%


    Isabe snorted and said, "I just didn''t want to waste m


    my timepeting with amateurs."


    Brenna saw right through her facade but pretended not to notice. With a sly smile, she said, "Is that so? You must be really skilled, then. In that case, I''ll sign you up, and we canpete. We''ll see who''s actually better."


    Isabe hesitated. Brenna was cornering her, but she didn''t want to ept the challenge. If she entered thepetition, she would likelye inst. At this moment, she quickly nced at Jordy for help.


    Jordy immediately caught on to Isabe''s reluctance and stepped in, saying, ¡°We asked if you could ride. Why are you dragging Isabe into this? If you can''t, just admit it. It''s no big deal. No one''s going tough at you"


    Brenna found the whole thing amusing. Did they really think she was that foolish? That she would fall for their cheap provocations so easily?


    She crossed her arms and tilted her head slightly. ¡°Tell you what-if both of you participate, then I will, too. If not, I won''t, either. Why should I join thepetition just because of a few words from you? I''m not that stupid."


    She met Isabe''s and Jordy''s gazes head-on and waited for their response.


    Jordy and Isabe exchanged a nce. Knowing Isabe''s riding skills werecking, Jordy leaned in and


    whispered to her, "Why don''t we just do it? I''ll be by your side in thepetition. Nothing will go wrong"


    He lifted an eyebrow, giving her a subtle signal


    Isabe hesitated, but the thought of seeing Brenna humiliate herself in front of everyone, especially Ethan, was too tempting. If Brenna embarrassed herself, Ethan might finally realize she wasn''t worth his attention and


    abandon her.


    But for that to happen, she had to participate in thepetition.


    "Alright," Isabe agreed. She was confident she''d get to watch Brenna fail.


    Brenna calmly took the tablet from a staff member, pulled up the registration screen, and handed it to Jordy. She watched as he filled in both his and Isabe''s names, then handed the tablet back.


    With a smirk, Jordy said to Brenna, "Your turn to sign up."


    Brenna''s smile widened, and she was unable to hide her satisfaction. "Oh, I''ve already signed up," she said. Jordy and Isabe froze. Their expressions then darkened as realization dawned on them. "You yed us!" Brenna chuckled,pletely unbothered. "You never asked if I had already registered, so it doesn''t count as tricking you. If you regret it, it''s fine. At worst, the local elite will hear that you both signed up for the equestrianpetition but didn''tpete. No big deal. People mightugh at you for a day or two. But don''t worry. They will soon forget about the matter."


    "y be


    Isabe snorted and crossed her arms. "Don''t get too cocky! My parents told me they had never signed you up for riding lessons, so you can''t ride at all. You''re going to lose badly today. How much better can you than me? Let''s see if Mr. Mitchell still wants you after you embarrass yourself."


    Brenna simply nodded, unfazed. "See you at thepetition," she said.


    Without another nce at them, she turned and walked toward the floor-to- ceiling window to watch the ongoingpetition below


    21.03


    <


    Meanwhile, Isabe''s confidence wavered the tugged on Jordy''s sleeve and whispered, ¡°I''ve only had two riding lessons What if I embarrass myself? Jordy, I


    am scared to really participate in thepetition. What


    should I do?


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 Chapter 39

    Chapter 39 Betting On Herself To Win


    Jordy couldn''te up with a better n, so he said to Isabe, "Let''s check out the stables first and find you


    calm horse Safetyes first"


    After weighing their options, this seemed like the most practical choice.


    Just then, a staff member approached, handing them a tablet. "Would you like to ce a bet? We offer options. of twenty, two hundred, two thousand, and twenty thousand, all with ten-to-one odds."


    Aside from watching the races, betting was another major attraction for the wealthy.


    Isabe''s interest was immediately piqued. She said to Jordy. "Let''s see who''speting this time."


    She and Jordy browsed through the profiles of the riders, recognizing several names and horses. One name, in particr, excited Isabe-Alex Espinoza from Orwall. Alex had dominated the equestrian circuit for the past two years without a single loss.


    "Jordy, I''m cing my bet on Alex!" Isabe dered, pulling out her bank card. But just as she was about to ce her bet, she noticed Brenna''s name on the list. Unlike the others, whose profiles were filled with past achievements, Brenna''s waspletely nk


    To Isabe''s astonishment, someone had actually ced a bet on Brenna to win.


    She burst intoughter. "Oh, this is hrious! Someone really wasted their money betting on Brenna to win,"


    she said.


    Jordy sneered, "That person must have lost their mind."


    Still chuckling, Isabe sauntered over to Brenna, pointing at the betting screen with amusement. "Brenna, I''m dying to know-which idiot ced a bet on you? Wait... Don''t tell me it was you?"


    sure I won''t win?"


    Brenna answered without hesitation, "Yeah, it was me. So what? How can you be so sure I Isabe rolled her eyes. "If you actually win, I''ll livestream myself eating my hat," she said. Brenna, simply nced at her, unimpressed. She replied, "Better start preparing for your livestream. I''ll make sure to watch it.


    Done with the conversation, Brenna signaled for a staff member to escort her to the stables to select a horse Meanwhile, the staff member before turned back to Isabe. "Would you like to ce your bet now?"


    Without hesitation, Isabe handed over her card. "Put my bet on Alex-twenty thousand per bet, one hundred


    bets


    If Alex won,


    she would walk away with twenty million.


    21:00


    Chapter 39 Betting On Herself To Win


    Jordy followed suit, cing five hundred bets on Alex


    The two then made their way to the stables together.


    Meanwhile, on the third floor, Ithan kept a sharp eye on the stock market. He had hundreds ofpanies, andtely, someone had been aggressively buying up the Mitchell Group''s stock. Uncertain of their intentions. remained vignt, prepared to step in at the first hint of a problem.


    Standing beside Ethan, Neville handed him a cup of coffee before picking up the tablet next to Ethan. ¡°ME Mitchell, I noticed Miss Harper ispeting as well. Should we ce a bet on her?" he asked.


    Ithan gave a nod. "Ten thousand bets "


    Neville hesitated, visibly surprised. "It''s her firstpetition Aren''t you worried about losing the bet? Ten thousand bets mean putting two hundred million on the


    line "


    "I believe in her." Ethan nced outside and saw that the first race had already begun. The crowd erupted in cheers as they ced bets, their excitement growing with each passing moment


    The massive disy screen showed an unfamiliarpetitor taking the lead on a new horse.


    Just then, Ethan''s phone rang. He answered the call on speaker. The person on the other end of the line said, "Mr. Mitchell, Miss Harper has arrived at the stables. Would you like to join her?"


    Keeping his eyes on theputer screen, Ethan responded, "I see. Let her use my horse. I''ll be down shortly"


    His focus remained on the stock market as someone continued purchasing the Mitchell Group''s stock, pushing


    it to its limit up.


    He believed there must be something amiss about this.


    Neville still tried to persuade Ethan, saying, "Are you sure you don''t want to consider betting on Alex? Miss Harper''s odds of winning aren''t exactly promising "


    If Brenna lost, it would mean forfeiting two hundred million.


    Ethan said nothing, his silence final. Neville sighed softly. There was nothing more to say. In the grand scheme of things, two hundred million was a mere drop in the ocean for Ethan.


    In the stables, Brenna arrived to find Rosie, Sylvie, and Vivian already suited up


    in their riding gear, exuding confidence and elegance.


    A handsome staff member stood before Rosie, his tone filled with deference and admiration. "Miss Harper, this horse belongs to Mr. Mitchell. He has given you permission to use it."


    The racetrack operated on an exclusive membership system, with entry fees starting at one million. Members enjoyed unrestricted ess to races, the ability to ce bets, and the option to stable their own horses-though that came at an even higher cost.


    Ethan wasn''t just a member, he was a top-tier VIP and a shareholder here. His decision to offer his horse to Rosie hinted at a special connection, which exined the staff member''s eagerness to please Rosie


    Rosie''s excitement was evident when she heard that, and Sylvie and Vivian were equally delighted. Sylvie, in particr, couldn''t hide her satisfaction. She said to Rosie, "I knew Mr. Mitchell wouldn''t waste his


    21.03


    Chapter 34 Batting an art


    Die on Bisons Beef Bee letting you use Fe prozed or

 e His Wife, Now His Rival 40

    Chapter 40 You Actually Dared To Show Up


    Rosie ran her fingers through Shane''s horse''s sleek ck mane. The horse''s


    name was


    as Onyx. His glossy cost


    gleamed under the light. The stallion had a regal build, and his temperament was calm


    A pleased smile yed on Rosie''s lips, and she said, "Onyx has already won first ce twice this year. He''s the


    favorite to win again"


    Sylvie nodded, admiration in her eyes. "With your exceptional riding skills, I have no doubt you''ll surpass Sasha and be the new rising star in the horse racing world," she said.


    Unable to contain her excitement, Vivian clenched her fists. "Go for it! I ced a thousand bets on you. Don''t


    make me regret it!" she teased.


    Rosie''s confidence wavered for a moment after she heard that. But looking at Onyx, she felt a surge of reassurance. With this horse, her chances of winning seemed far more certain.


    Then, out of the corner of her eye, she spotted Brenna standing at the door. The excitement drained from her face. Her smile vanished, reced by an icy expression, and she sneered, "You actually dared to show up."


    Over the past two days, Rosie had made a point to ask around about Brenna and gathered information from people familiar with the Barrett family. It turned out that Brenna had never attended a single training session in riding, let alone had any experience with equestrian sports.


    Rosie had been certain that Brenna wouldn''t dare show up today. Yet here Brenna was, standing just outside the stables, mere minutes before the race. An unexpected surprise.


    Brenna''s gaze settled on the ck horse beside Rosic. It was a rare and exceptional steed, no doubt about it But Rosie had already chosen it.


    What a pity. Still, it wasn''t a big deal. Brenna believed she could choose another


    one.


    She wasn''t entirely sure how skilled Rosie was. But from what she had heard earlier, it seemed like Rosie was very skilled in this.


    Brenna''s lips curved into a slow, knowing smile. She said, "Of course, I had toe. You''re here! Otherwise, how else would I get to watch you embarrass yourself?"


    Rosie scoffed and replied, her tone dripping with contempt, "Can you even ride a horse? I bet you''ve never even


    touched one before."


    She patted Onyx''s sleek neck and smirked. "See? Ethan lent me his horse." Pride radiated from her. She even looked at Brenna with a hint of pity. "I really thought Ethan was being so nice to you these past few days because he was interested in you, always looking out for you and staying by your


    00


    III


    21.03


    Actually Cured To


    How do you feel about i


    Sylve despised Brenna Because of her, she had beughingstock in high society over the past two days Vivian felt the same. The two of them had been forced to poble velge humring themselves And now they were nothing more thantest gossip among


    Vivian stepped forward and spoke to Brenna with apparent hostility "Don''t think that just because you''ve entered the Harper family, you belong to the elite now. And don''t even den of being a match for the world''s richest man. Let me spell it out for you-go


    to marry Mr Mitchell Keep dreaming"


    Youll


    el as Rome You want


    Sylvie barely spared Brenna a nce before turning to a staff member. "Which horse won thest race? I want


    that one," she said


    Not to be outdone, Vivian smirked and said to the staff member beside her, "Then I''ll take the one that came


    second."


    She turned back to Brenna, her expression filled with smug satisfaction. "Let''s see how you n to win now,


    she said.


    Brenna didn''t seem fazed at all. She simply smiled and said, "Well, best of luck to you both."


    Then, without another word, she turned toward the stables to pick a horse for herself.


    But before she could take another step, Sylvie and Vivian stepped in front of her, blocking her path. Dressed head to toe in full riding gear, Vivian gripped a riding crop in one hand and tapped it against her palm as if she were prepared to use it


    She said, "What''s the rush? None of the other contestants have picked their horses yet. What makes you think you get to go first? Wait your turn."


    Brenna''s gaze turned cold. She pushed both Vivian and Sylvie, moving them aside. "Out of my way."


    Sylvie''s and Vivian''s expressions twisted with anger. Vivian gripped her riding crop tightly before snapping it against her palm. "How dare you push me?" she snapped.


    Before things could escte further, Rosie stepped in, pulling Vivian and Sylvie back. ¡°Enough. Just hold back for now, I made sure she wouldpete with us. When she falls off her horse or has some other ''ident'' during the race, we won''t be implicated. But if we start something now to target her, we''ll be banned frompeting."


    Vivian clenched her teeth and forced herself to calm down. "She should consider herself lucky now."


    Just then, Isabe and Jordy arrived at the stables.


    Isabe scanned the horses. Most of them looked strong, restless, and difficult to control. She tugged at Jordy''s sleeve and whispered, "Jordy, I''m scared "


    Jordy ced a reassuring hand on her shoulder. He said, "Don''t worry. I''m here. I''ll take care of you."


    As Isabe and Jordy stepped inside, their eyes immediatelynded on Rosie, Sylvie, and Vivian. The thi stood in the most prominent spot, already having chosen their horses. Their confidence was unmistakable, and they exuded elegance


    "Miss Harper! Miss Higgins! Miss Morrison!" Isabe called out with practiced charm. "I just checked the


    21.03


    dule we''re the group. How lucky I am to bepeting with you!"


    Bodyware of the group agents, barely spared her agence "And who are you the asked


    teabe freze for a second for a moment, she felt a twinge


    berment, but she quicklyposes


    herself. I''m tabe Sarrett My family owns the Barrett Group," she said


    The moment those words left her mouth, recognition fockered across the faces of Ronin, sylvie, and Vitan So this was the daughter of trenna''s adoptive family Rosie''s lips curled into a sly smile "Oh, hello"


    It was only then did teabe relox slightly, and her smile widened


    jordy stepped forward His eyes I up with admiration as he took in the three


    women before him up close Their elegance, their refined beauty, and the way they carried themselves screamed elite


    ould win over just one of them, his life would change overnight. He would get wealth, influence, and a


    ce among the upper ss


    But reality set in just as quickly. He knew he was not worthy of being together with any of the three women intention of pursuing them because of that. Masking his admiration, he extended his hand toward them to shake their hands


    21.03

 Chapter 41

    Chapter 41 Just Give Up


    Brenna picked a new horse, one that had neverpeted before. It was a sleek bay horse, though not as docile


    as Ethan''s


    "T''ll choose this one," Brenna said.


    The attendant smiled and led the horse out for her. "You''ve got a good eye. Champion horses are more reliable, but new ones have untapped potential. Best of luck!"


    As Brenna guided the horse outside, the roar of the crowd hit her. The cheers swelled, growing louder with eachp.


    She turned toward the racetrack. A rider on a striking white horse surged ahead, leaving the others behind


    The rider, a foreigner, moved with perfect bnce as the horse sped past Brenna.


    He was Alex.


    "Whoa, Alex!" Isabe shrieked while waving her arms wildly. "Jordy, he''s my absolute favorite rider! I can''t believe I''mpeting alongside him today. What an honor!" She bounced on her toes, barely able to contain


    her excitement.


    Brenna shot her a look of contempt


    The crowd was electric. It wasn''t just Isabe. Alex had a legion of fans.


    People were on their feet, screaming and waving Orwall gs.


    Alex''s image lit up the massive electronic screens around the venue. Momentster, the updated race rankings shed across them, sending the crowd into an even bigger frenzy.


    In just minutes, Alex had secured first ce in the ninth group without breaking a sweat. If he won the finals, he''d be the day''s champion.


    As soon as the race ended, a wave of people rushed to ce bets on Alex. His poprity was at an all-time


    high.


    Even Isabe added to her wager.


    After crossing the finish line, Alex took a victoryp around the arena. Then, without warning, he snatched a megaphone from a staff member and shouted, "Idiots! Idiots!"


    He then began flipping off the crowd.


    The atmosphere shifted in an instant. The cheers from before dissolved into a restless murmur. People poin at Alex, their faces twisted in outrage. How dare he insult his fans from Belden?


    This was outrageous!


    000


    21.03


    Chapter 41 Just Ove Up


    "Night,e out!" Alex taunted, ignoring the growing hostility toward him "Night,e out! Don''t be a


    coward!"


    Staff members sprinted alongside his horse to intervene. "Mr. Epinoza, please mind your words!"


    But Alex didn''t care. He shoved off their warnings and even swung his riding crop at them.


    The staff members had no choice but to back away.


    "Get out of Belden!"


    "Leave!"


    "You''re not wee here!"


    The crowd''s admiration toward Alex soured into outrage.


    Shouts erupted from the stands as some people were unable to hold back their fury.


    But Alex acted as if he hadn''t heard a thing. He kept flipping them off, and his voice boomed through the megaphone. "Night,e out! What''s wrong? Scared?"


    Two years ago, in Valport, Night had been the only rider to ever defeat him. Alex never epted that loss. He had been itching for a rematch ever since.


    But after that race, Night had disappeared without a trace.


    All Alex knew was that Night was from Belden. He didn''t know Night''s real name


    or anything else about her. So he did the only thing he could-keeppeting, keep winning, and keep calling Night out. He hoped that one day he would encounter Night again


    "Let''spete again and settle this once and for all!" Alex shouted and flipped off the crowd again. His bad attitude was repulsive.


    Brenna merely watched what was happening with steely determination.


    ce was about to begin. Contestants'' profiles shed across the massive screens. Then, suddenly,


    The next race


    Alex froze.


    There in the tenth group was Night


    Alex''s expression shifted in an instant. The cocky bravado vanished, reced by an eerie calm. Without another word, he turned his horse and rode off, saving his energy for the finals


    "Night, you''d better win this round. Otherwise, you''re not worth my time," Alex muttered.


    Brenna''swung onto her horse with practiced ease and positioned herself at the starting line alongside the other nine riders.


    Isabe, on the other hand, fumbled onto her saddle. Her clumsy mounting drewughter from the stands Face burning in embarrassment, she turned to Jordy and murmured, "Jordy, people areughing at me."


    Jordy was embarrassed, too. He felt a pang of regret. Letting Isabepete suddenly didn''t seem like such a good idea now


    21.03


    voice from the stands cut through


    "If you can''t r


    Isabe heard it loud and clear. She didn''t have the energy to focus on Brenna


    now


    she had seen Brenna mount earlier-smooth, confident, and effortless Brenna clearly knew how to ride a horse


    Isabe''s legs started to shake, and her grip on the reins faltered.


    Just then, the starting gun fired. Nine horses surged forward like arrows,


    thundering down the track. However, Isabe''s horse didn''t move.


    "Come on... Isabe''s face burned as she yanked at the reins "Move, please."


    Laughter exploded from the stands.


    "Just give up!" someone jeered.


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 Chapter 42

    Chapter 42 Isabe Being Humiliated


    Isabe''s ears rang with mockingughter as anxiety gripped her. No matter how much she tugged at the reins, the horse refused to move Panic crept in had someone tampered with the horse? Otherwise, why wouldn''t it


    move?


    From the stands, Alex erupted intoughter, his arrogance on full disy. He whistled and shouted, "What a joke! Is this really the best Belden has to offer? How did they let someone so stupid join thepetition?"


    His voice echoed loudly across the arena through the megaphone.


    Shame burned through Isabe The more flustered she became, the more stubborn the horse was, refusing to


    move forward


    Alex continued his taunts, riling up the spectators. Their frustration boiled over, and soon, a chant erupted, asking Isabe to get off the horse. "Get off! Get off! Get off...


    Isabe longed to exit the arena, but fear kept her frozen. Stuck in the middle of the field, she had no idea how


    to dismount.


    The shouting escted, and Alex, emboldened, took his insults further, jeering at both Isabe and the crowd, "You people from Belden are all idiots!"


    A bottle soared through the air, crashing near Isabe. Then another. And another. The sudden barrage startled Isabe''s horse, which reared up, kicking its front legs wildly. With a sharp cry, Isabe lost her grip and fell hard onto the ground.


    The horse, spooked, bolted down the track, leaving Isabe sprawled on the ground, tears spilling down her


    face


    She had narrowly avoided being trampled.


    Dazed and struggling to her feet, she staggered toward the sidelines-only to find herself directly in the path of two galloping horses. Brenna and Rosie thundered past her on their horses,pleting theirp.


    Just then, Rosie''s whip sliced through the air, nearly hitting Isabe. Isabe gasped, frozen in fear, before copsing into fresh sobs.


    The crowd erupted in mockingughter. They believed Isabe had deeply embarrassed their country.


    When Isabe attempted to move again, another wave of seven horses thundered past, forcing her to reco


    fear


    Jordy, still on horseback, felt the sting of humiliation. He felt as if the entire audience were mocking him


    rebeved that at least he hadn''t waited for Isabe at the starting line. If people linked them


    n A


    2103


    Chapter


    together, he''d be dragged into the disgrace, tarnishing his family''s name in the process.


    As soon as the track cleated, Isabe anxiously nced behind her. Seeing no more oing horses, she scrambled off the field in a desperate rush.


    But even when she reached the stands, the humiliation didn''t end. People pointed at her, their gazes filled with scorn and disgust.


    Then it hit her she had never wanted to race in the first ce. Brenna hdd pushed her into this?


    She turned her re toward Brenna, who was leading thepetition, resentment burning in her chest.


    Why was Brenna''s horse so fast? Why hadn''t it stumbled? Why hadn''t Brenna fallen off her horse?


    Isabe seethed, cursing Brenna in het mind, silently wishing Rosie who was just behind Brenna would catch up, overtake Brenna, andsh her with the whip until she could no longer ride.


    Meanwhile, Brenna''s poprity was skyrocketing. The stands erupted in cheers, and bets on her soared. She was now a greater favorite than some of the toppetitors, second only to Alex.


    From a third-floor window, Ethan''s attention drifted from his work, his gaze locking onto Brenna as she raced A faint smile yed at his lips. Brenna was really amazing.


    Her equestrian skills were beyond impressive.


    Rosie, trailing in second ce, had already used her whip five times. ording to


    the rules, she couldn''t use it again until the final stretch.


    But no matter how hard she pushed, the gap between her and Brenna only widened.


    Ethan had already noticed that Rosie was riding his horse, and his expression darkened. There was nothing he could do about it now. What troubled him more was how Brenna might perceive the situation. He had intended for Brenna to ride his horse, but his horse had ended up with Rosie.


    Gripping his phone tightly, he kept his eyes fixed on Brenna.


    He believed Brenna would think he valued Rosie more than her. The thought unsettled him deeply. Why hadn''t he made things clear to the stable manager earlier? If he had, this wouldn''t have happened


    Standing beside Ethan, Neville took note of Ethan''s dark expression-his brow furrowed, veins standing out against his hand as he gripped his phone tightly. It was clear to him that Ethan was displeased.


    He quickly said, "Mr. Mitchell, I''ll handle this personally. I''ll make sure Miss Brenna Harper rides your horse in the finals."


    Ethan''s cold eyes flicked to Neville before he turned away without a word.


    Taking that as his cue, Neville didn''t say anything else. Without hesitation, he turned and left, determined to correct the mistake at once.


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    Chapter 43 Shame

 Chapter 43

    Chapter 43 Shameless


    Tactics


    Rosie clenched her teeth in frustration as she realized there was one way to den they only one


    op remaining, overtaking Brenna was impossible. She had already used up her allered why vermogen with only one option-securing second ce.


    for Her horse galloped at an unforgiving pace, hooves thundering against the track to coll''s stree mistake-one wrong move, and she''d be thrown off.


    ncing back, she spotted Sylvie and Vivian trailing behind her, with Brenna petang got there b eyes, she shot Sylvie and Vivian a look, silently rying her message


    The two caught on instantly.


    Sylvie flicked her whip a few times, drawing a smirk from Rosie


    Under her breath, Rosie muttered darkly, "Brenna, don''t think you can win easily this time.


    Ahead, Jordy rode in sync with Sylvie and Vivian, the three close


    Brenna, however, paid them no mind. She focused solely on the finish line, urging her horse forward as she closed the distance.


    Vivian, positioned on the outer edge, felt Brenna''s presence looming behind her. A wicked grin spread across her face. Without hesitation, she swung her whip in a wide arc, aiming it directly at Brenna''s face.


    Brenna reacted instantly, leaning sideways and dodging the strike with ease. She shot Vivian a sharp re "Vivian, what the hell are you doing? That nearly hit me!" she eximed


    Vivian met her gaze, unbothered. Instead of retreating, she angled her horse closer. She had no shot at cing in the top three, but if she couldn''t win, she sure as hell wouldn''t let Brenna take first ce.


    Her horse''s tail swished dangerously close to Brenna''s horse''s face, forcing Brenna to rein in slightly, slowing


    down


    Up ahead, Sylvie took advantage of the moment, steering her horse directly into Brenna''s path, blocking her. Jordy watched the scene unfold, his smirk widening Brenna had humiliated him before the race, making him aughingstock in front of his peers. Now, he was losing to a group of women. This was all Brenna''s fault


    He refused to let Brenna win There was no way in hell he would let a woman he had discarded tak spotlight


    With that resolve, he steered his horse closer hemming her in from both sides, trapping her.


    Sylvie''s, closing off Brenna''s escape. The two moved in unison,


    mo


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    Chapter 43 Shameless Tactics


    Then Jordy struck is whipshed through the air, its tip slicing toward Brenna''s horse''s eyes with cruel.


    His


    precision.


    Brenna quickly grasped their scheme. They had closed in on all den, herming her in like a cage with no w out Trustration burned inside her, but she kept herposure.


    way


    with only half ap left, she adjusted her strategy, loosening her grip slightly to create an opportunity. If she could slip past Sylvie on the right, she might still salvage her position and even surpass her own record.


    But Sylvie was one step ahead. Sensing Brenna''s shift, she adjusted her pace, mirroring every move, ensuring


    there was no room for escape.


    Meanwhile, Vivian,gging just behind, didn''t attempt to overtake them. Instead, she held her position, maintaining the blockade alongside Sylvie and Jordy.


    Sylvie stole a quick nce ahead-only a third of thep remained. Rosie was gaining ground. If Rosie pressed forward a little harder, she had a real chance of winning first ce.


    "Rosie, now''s your chance! Push harder!" Sylvie called out.


    Vivian also called out, "Go, Rosie! You can do it!"


    Brenna instantly pieced their n together. A cold smirk yed on her lips, her gaze sharpening with fierce determination. She ran a reassuring hand over her horse''s mane before raising her whip. "Let''s show them. what we''ve got!" she muttered.


    As if fueled by her determination, her horse burst forward with a sudden, explosive speed, charging between Sylvie''s and Jordy''s horses. The sheer force of its eleration shattered their blockade, forcing its way through. Realizing Brenna was about to break free, Jordy and Sylvie acted without hesitation, kicking at Brenna. Gasps echoed through the crowd, followed by furious shouts.


    "Shameless tactics!"


    They were n


    not letting Brenna win.


    But neither Sylvie nor Jordy cared about fairness anymore. They


    They kicked ruthlessly, aiming directly at Brenna''s horse''s head and Brenna


    Brenna reacted instantly, ttening herself against her horse''s back, her body low. She knew the race rules- any deliberate attack on another rider meant instant disqualification.


    Retaliation wasn''t an option. So she snapped her whip again, urging her horse onward. The response was immediate. The horse lunged forward with even greater force, its sheer momentum unsettling Sylvie and Jordy Their attacks missedpletely, and before they could regain their bnce, both tumbled off their horses


    They hit the ground hard, rolling multiple times in a chaotic crash.


    Vivian, following close behind, saw it unfold. Her breath hitched as she realized the danger-her horse''s hooves were about toe down on them. A cold sweat spread across her body. At this speed, if they were tri by her horse, they might not survive.


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    Chapter 44 How Could You


    Hold Her Like That


    Jordy and Sylvie crashed onto the track, the impact jarring Just as Jordy lifted his head, he caught sight of Vivian''s horse thundering straight toward them Instinct took over he grabbed Sylvie and rolled them both to the side in time


    Had they hesitated for even a second, they would have been trampled beneath the charging horse Meanwhile, Brenna had already crossed the finish line, securing first ce in the tenth group


    The electronic scoreboard shed her time-it was identical to Alex''s


    The crowd burst into deafening apuse. Had it not been for the interference, Brenna could have early surpassed Alex


    Finally, someone hade along who could challenge Alex.


    As Brenna slowed her horse to a steady trot, the cameras zoomed in on her. The sight of her poised confidence and striking beauty sent another wave of excitement through the stands.


    She acknowledged the cheering spectators with a wave before guiding her horse toward the stables at a leisurely pace.


    Rosie, finishing in second ce, nced at the scoreboard in disbelief. She hadpleted the race in twenty seconds her personal best. But it wasn''t enough. Only the first-ce winners advanced to the finals. Despite her efforts, she wouldn''t get the chance topete alongside her idol.


    She was filled with rage, clenching her fists as she watched the audience roar for Brenna Jealousy gnawed at


    her insides.


    How was Brenna so good at horseback riding?


    Hadn''t the Barrett family kept her confined at home, forcing her to focus on nothing but design? Wasn''t she stopped from going out? Hadn''t they denied her ess to extracurricr activities?


    Rosie believed this didn''t make sense. Brenna seemed like a mystery-one she couldn''t unravel.


    Rosie had intended to disgrace Brenna through this race, expecting to see her falter in humiliation. Yet, the n had backfired spectacrly-Brenna had not only triumphed but had also captured the attention of high


    society.


    The more Rosie dwelled on it, the deeper her resentment grew.


    At the stable entrance, Ethan stood waiting, his effortless charm on full disy. A warm smile yed on his lips as he extended a steady hand to help Brenna down from her horse.


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    Rosie saw it from distance, and her with fory


    Why? Hadn''t Then let her une his horas instead of renna to why wise he being an attention to Brenes nea


    Seething, bir urged her horse forward, racing toward dem fotot


    diamoire. Konta''s


    horse charged straight at her from Behindperely


    new by res


    Ithan however, wit te swiftly wrapped an arm around Brenn''s der water and pulled


    for ve spinning them both to safety toe''s horse thundered pet


    Movie huffed, frustrated


    She hadn''t managed to knock Brenna down, and now, she had no choice but to pull back her reles and


    dismount


    Fihan, meanwhile, still held onto Brenna His grip tightened slightly, noticing the subtle strength in her frame


    agile-something about that intrigued him. He found himself reluctant to let go


    Brenna felt uneasy, not tired to this kind of contact. She instinctively pushed against him "Mr Mitchell, could


    you let go of me now


    asked


    Ethan smiled lightly and released her, though not before steadying her arms to ensure she regained her bnce Rose, unable to stand the sight of them being so close, walked over and wedged herself between them, forcefully separating them


    like that?"


    Pouting, she turned to Ethan and said, "Ethan, how could you hold her like that?" Ethan flung her an icy stare. "Who gave you permission to ride my horse?" he asked sharply.


    A tense silence fell over the stable. The manager, standing off to the side, paled. Only now, after witnessing the oue of the race, did he realize the truth-Ethan had intended for Brenna, the first ce winner of thi round, to ride his horse, not Rosie.


    He hadpletely misunderstood the instructions earlier. And now, he feared for his job. Seeing Rosie clinging to Ethan, the stable manager took his chance to plead his case with Brenna


    "Miss Harper, I sincerely apologize. Mr. Mitchell originally meant for you to ride his horse. I misunderstood hum and assumed he was referring to Miss Rosie Harper. Thankfully, no harm was done-otherwise, I''d be in serious trouble. Mr. Mitchell wouldn''t have let me off so easily."


    Brenna barely reacted. She had little interest in Rosie''s childish theatrics, let alone the misunderstanding over


    a horse.


    Her rtionship with Ethan was simple-Ethan hired her to treat his grandfather.


    As for the horse, that was a separate issue between her and Rosie.


    ny horse.


    "It doesn''t matter," Brenna said with a shrug. "I can win on any


    The stable manager sighed in relief, saying respectfully, "Thank you, Miss Harper, for your understanding *


    At that moment, a voice echoed from the entrance. "Miss Harper!" Brenna turned


    to see Alex striding toward her. "You''re Night, aren''t you?" Alex asked.


    ng time. Today, I''ll defeat you and erase my


    His voice was challenging "I''ve been looking for you for a long


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    Chapter 44 How Could You Hold Her Like That


    disgrace once and for all!"


    Brenna scowled. her dislike unmistakable She had no fondness for Alex. He had already proven himself arrogant and disrespectful earlier. Since he wanted topete with her now, she believed this was a perfect chance to teach him a lesson she said, "That depends on whether you''ve actually improved over the years.


    Alex was confident, smirking "I''ve been training non-stop. This time, I will win?


    Win a chance to read for free!>>>

 Chapter 45

    Chapter 45 Creep


    Isabe''s stomach twisted with irritation as she stood in the stands. From her vantage point, she had watched


    Jordy throw himself over another woman in a dramatic rescue. Sylvie was not only more attractive than her but also came from a far more prestigious family. Worse, she had riding skills that put her to shame. A creeping


    fear settled over her-what if Jordy turned his affections toward Sylvie now?


    If that happened, she would lose everything


    She picked up her pace, her heart hammering as she ran toward Jordy and Sylvie. The moment of danger had long passed, yet the two remained locked in an embrace, with Jordy hovering over Sylvie in an intimate position.


    Jordy, meanwhile, stared down at Sylvie''s delicate features-so much more refined than Isabe''s. Sylvie was from the Higgins family, which was an established powerhouse in Shirie, their wealth dwarfing that of the


    Barretts


    If this moment of heroism was enough to make Sylvie fall for him, how wonderful would that be?


    Aligning himself with the Higgins family could be a game-changer for his business. Even the slightest support from them could catapult his family''s status to new heights.


    Jordy''s mind raced with possibilities, imagining Sylvie extremely grateful to him, possibly even throwing herself to him. The thought was intoxicating, so much so that he lost himself in the moment,pletely forgetting to


    release Sylvie.


    Sylvie, on the other hand, was trembling. The terrifying fall had left her breathless. Her eyes had been squeezed shut, and she had been fully convinced that she was about to be trampled beneath a stampede of hooves.


    However, instead of experiencing that, she hadnded in someone''s arms, rolling twice before the thunder of hooves passed by. The distant roar of apuse confirmed she had survived


    She realized she was pressed against a man''s chest. The closeness unsettled her.


    She only dared to open her eyes when the sound of hooves faded.


    Among the riders, she had noticed one particrly striking young man from the Murray family, trailing just behind her. If he had been the one to save her, it wouldn''t be too bad, and she wouldn''t mind that.


    She desperately hoped that the person who had saved her wasn''t Jordy. Hecked the good looks she admired, came from a mediocre family with no real influence, and worst of all, he was annoyingly short.


    With her heart pounding, Sylvie hesitantly opened her eyes. The man she saw wasn''t the tall, striking man of the Murray family. Instead, it was Jordy-the one man she found disgusting


    "Ah!" she screamed and pped Jordy across the face. "Get off me, you creep!"


    Jordy reeled from the unexpected blow. The warm gratitude he had imagined-the tearful appreciation and the breathless thanks-never came. Instead, he had been pped and called a creep.


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    Chapter 45 Creep


    It broke his heart


    For a moment, he could only stare at Sylvie, stunned.


    Sylvie, shaking with revulsion, shut her eyes again and failed wildly, her nails raking across Jordy''s face, leaving several scratches "Get away from me, pervert" she eximed


    She kicked at him, squirming violently. Event staff rushed in, pulling themart "Miss Higgins, are you alright? Do you need medical attention?


    With the staff''s help. Sylvie struggled to her feet, only to wince as searing pain radiated through her shoulder She hadnded hard on the ground earlier-no doubt she was bruised.


    Her expression twisted as she looked at jordy, just seeing him made her stomach churn


    Jordy, still sore from the fall, got up and dusted himself off. When he saw Sylvie''s contorted expression of pain, he asked with concern, "Miss Higgins, are you alright?"


    Sylvie red at him. "Stay away from me! Don''te near me! You''re disgusting!" she said sharply.


    Jordy''s expression hardened. Whatever patience he had left snapped. He had risked himself to save her, and this was how she repaid him? He scoffed and said, "Miss Higgins, don''t you think you are treating me the wrong way here? If I hadn''t pulled you out of harm''s way, you might have been trampled to death by now. Instead of thanking me, you hurl insults at me?¡±


    Lying on the stretcher, Sylvie retorted, "Who asked you to save me? I would''ve been just fine without you interfering! Just stay away from me. You make me sick!"


    Jordy''s hands clenched into fists. His jaw tightened. "I must have been out of my damn mind to have saved you!"


    he said.


    Just then, Isabe arrived, catching thest of his words. From a distance, she had already sensed something was off. There was no trace of gratitude in Sylvie''s expression-only pure, unfiltered disgust. Relief flooded Isabe. She believed she didn''t need to worry about Jordy being together with Sylvie now.


    She hurried to Jordy''s side, slipping an arm around him. She said, "Jordy, are you okay? I was so worried about you just now! I thought you were seriously hurt! You should let the doctor check you."


    Jordy took a step, still rattled. Now, he realized that sticking with Isabe was the wiser option for him. Any hope of forging a connection with the Higgins family had crumbled, but what stung him more was Sylvie''s bad attitude toward him. He had never encountered someone so unappreciative-someone who would look at the very person who saved her life with utter disgust and go so far as to call him a creep.


    ring at Sylvie, he spat, "I shouldn''t have saved you at all!"


    Isabe, seeing her chance, narrowed her eyes at Sylvie and said, "Miss Higgins, my boyfriend saved your life. Even if you don''t want to thank him, do you really have to humiliate him like this? I demand you apologize to my boyfriend now."


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 Chapter 46

    Chapter 46 Don''t Touch Me


    Brich


    Vivian realized something was amiss the moment the crossed the finish line without hesitation, she agreed her horse towards Sylvie Only after dismounting with a witt motion did the rush to spider the surveyed her friend from head to toe, her relief was palpable as the found nonds, petyer of dome said. "My horse almost trampled you back there! Thank heaven you''re sade I was so worried


    spline, are por


    alright?"


    Sylvie, feeling like misfortune was her shadow, had no desire to entangle herself with Joey''s type Yes Searing he might cling to her because of the matter, she said to him reluctantly. "You saved me back there. Thank you"


    Turning to the event staff, her voice urgent, Sylvie said, "Please hurry I''m in pain I need to go to the hospital


    night now."


    She was desperate to escape the premises and Jordy''s potential grasp


    Jordy, fuming with indignation, eximed, "What the hell? I risked my life to save her, and all she has is a


    measly thanks?"


    Isabe, witnessing the scene, red at Sylvie but internally mocked jordy-had Jordy really expected his heroics to win Sylvie''s affection?


    But she kept her thoughts to herself, satisfied as long as Sylvie remained uninterested in Jordy


    "Maybe you should get yourself examined by a doctor as well," suggested Isabe


    Jordy, still simmering, agreed without fuss. "Alright," he replied.


    Heh


    believed Isabe was still the person who was treating him the best.


    As the championship final loomed, Brenna and Alex both decided to use the same horses from the previous


    round


    Among the other eight finalists, decisions varied; some opted for fresher horses, banking on better stamina, while others, like Brenna, valued the established connection and rhythm with their current mounts


    The tension was palpable; eyes full of challenge were fixed on Alex, everyone eager to dethrone him


    Completely absorbed, Brenna stood by her horse, caressing its mane and murmuring words of encouragement,


    oblivious to her surroundings.


    This disregard made Ethan feel invisible. Wasn''t it obvious he was there just for her?


    Beside Ethan, Rosie offered a light smile and suggested. "Ethan, why don''t we head to the stands? It''s a better


    view from there."


    Ethan, uninterested in leaving, dismissed her suggestion. His cool demeanor intact, he replied. "No, you go on.


    I need to speak with Brenna "


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    Chapter 45 Dont Touch Me


    Rosie, slightly irritated, said to Brenna sharply. "Brenns, than is trying to get your attention. Are you even


    listening"


    How dare Brenna ignore Ethan


    Rosie nudged Brenna in anger


    Brenna, caught off guard, turned to them, confused "Sorry, what was that the asked


    Rosie, turning to Ethan,ined, "Did you see? She didn''t hear a word "


    Ethan chose to prioritize Brenna''s preparation. He approached Brenna with an apologetic expression. He said,


    I picked a terrible time to talk. I know talking to your horse helps with your synergy and performance I''m sorry for interrupting. Focus on your race, and when you win the finals, let''s celebrate "


    His apology was genuine.


    Brenna nodded in acknowledgment. "Alright."


    Both Rosic and Neville were dumbfounded, having never seen Ethan offer an apology like that before


    Ethan had really just taken the initiative to apologize to Brenna.


    It was downright shocking.


    Neville was so stunned that he just stood there, mouth hanging open.


    Rosie, even more stunned, stared at Ethan for what felt like forever before it finally hit her than might actually have feelings for Brenna


    This wasn''t just a fleeting crush; his actions spoke louder than words. "Ethan, I did great, too! Second ce and a new personal best. Shouldn''t we go and celebrate now?" Rosie hoped her longstanding friendship with Ethan would elicit some praise from him.


    She waited for Ethan''spliment, eyes fixed on his face, which bore a subtle smile. Yet, his attention remained fixed on Brenna, his gaze tender.


    Ethan had never looked at her that way.


    In a fit of frustration, Rosie grabbed his arm and shook it. "Ethan!"


    Ethan turned his attention to her and shook off her hand, his voice icy, his gaze piercing. "Don''t touch me," he


    said


    However, when his eyes returned to Brenna, they softened significantly


    The final race was imminent. Brenna, leading her horse to the starting line, was closely followed by Alex, who dered confidently, "This round, I''ll beat you, Night. I''m the most skilled rider here."


    The rest of the contestants red at Alex, dismissing his boastful im. "Not a chance!"


    "We''ll show you real strength!"


    Alex, unbothered by the surrounding disdain, shrugged off theirments.


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    Chapter 47 Victory


    Alex, having gained a considerable lead, reveled in his dominance. With a cocky grin, he lifted his right hand


    and made an obscene gesture toward hispetitors before waving his riding crop at the roaring crowd Ho voice rang out arrogantly. "You are all pathetic! Completely worthless!"


    "Someone needs to shut that guy up! Let''s take him down!" One of the male riders, racing alongside Brenna, clenched his jaw in anger. He had endured Alex''s cocky behavior long enough.


    Brenna exchanged a look with him. She had no intention of wasting energy in the earlyps. Her n was clear -start steady, gradually increase speed through the second and thirdps, then unleash her full power in the


    final stretch.


    For now, maintaining a ten-meter gap between her and Alex was ideal. It was close enough for her to strike when the moment was right but far enough that he wouldn''t feel threatened.


    This distance was perfect.


    Brenna gave thepetitor beside her a small, knowing smile but made no move to speed up.


    However, the man had already taken Alex''s taunts personally. Unable to tolerate the mockery, he cracked his whip, urging his horse to quicken its pace-though not by much-keeping himself still alongside Brenna


    Meanwhile, Alex confidently began his secondp.


    Convinced that he had left his opponents far behind, he threw a nce over his shoulder-only to find Brenna and a malepetitor not far behind him.


    That ten-meter gap was dangerous. If they surged forward at the right moment, they could easily close in For the first time, Alex''s cocky fa?ade cracked. His eyes flicked back toward Brenna repeatedly.


    Meanwhile, Brenna remainedposed, her expression almost indifferent, as if this were just a casual ride rather than a race. Theck of urgency in her gaze was infuriating to Alex-it was as if she didn''t consider him a challenge at all.


    Furious, Alex raised his crop andshed his horse harshly, demanding more speed.


    The horse, pained by the blow, galloped forward with renewed energy. But it didn''tst. Barely half apter, its pace began to drop.


    Certain of his lead, Alex cast a quick nce over his shoulder, convinced that Brenna and that malepetitor hadgged at least twenty meters behind. With threeps still to go, he was sure they had no chance of catching up.


    Grinning smugly, he lifted his hand once more, flipping Brenna and that man off without even bothering to look. But as he rode a little farther, curiosity got the better of him, and he nced back again, only for his smirk to vanish instantly. Brenna was closing in.


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    Panic jolted through him. He had been watching her closely and hadn''t seen her use her whip once. How was she closing in so fast?


    Sensing he was losing his lead, he dropped the theatrics and whipped his horse again, desperate to widen the gap between him and Brenna.


    Brenna, meanwhile, had pulled ahead of the malepetitor beside her, now only eight meters from Alex. Seeing this, Alex was frustrated.


    Damn it!


    Why couldn''t he shake her off?


    Brenna''s pace remained steady,pletely unhurried, as if she had barely begun racing.


    By the fourthp, the field had stretched out, the weakerpetitors fading into the background. Alex still held the lead and had evenpped thest rider.


    Just then, Brenna''s eyes sharpened with icy resolve. For the first time in the race, she lifted her whip and gave a single, decisive strike. Her horse, responding instantly, surged forward with unrestrained power. Its hooves thundered against the track, kicking up dust, shrinking the distance between her and Alex at an rming rate.


    Brenna leaned into the motion, ttening herself against her horse''s back, synchronizing her rhythm with its strides, moving as one.


    The malepetitor behind her did the same, whipping his horse and adjusting his posture. Fueled by the pain of the whip, his horse also picked up speed.


    The wind roared in Brenna''s ears. Within half ap, she had reached Alex''s side, matching his pace. Then, as if savoring the moment, she turned her head toward him and smirked, and with one swift motion, she flipped


    him off.


    With another sharp crack of her whip, Brenna urged her horse forward once more, and within seconds, she surged past Alex, widening the gap by over two meters.


    Alex''s face twisted in rage. His grip tightened around the reins. Then, he pressed a hidden button on his ring. A half-inch spike slid out. Then, he stabbed it into his horse''s back.


    Blood seeped through the horse''s white coat, a ring red streak staining its


    mane.


    The agonized horse, startled by the sudden pain, lunged forward toward the finish line.


    But Brenna''s horse was no ordinary steed. No matter how much Alex whipped his,


    it refused to maintain the pace. Instead of elerating, it started to slow down.


    Behind Alex, the malepetitor seized his chance and surged forward, overtaking Alex effortlessly.


    Without hesitation, he flipped Alex off as he sped ahead.


    Alex''s panic skyrocketed. He couldn''t even get second ce now. He pounded


    his fists against his horse''s bac demanding more speed.


    More blood spilled down the horse''s nks, the trails starkly visible.


    Without warning, the horse veered sideways, kicking out violently with its hind legs and throwing Alex off.


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    The horse, as if exacting revenge, raised its front hooves and then brought them crashing door-aimed directly at Alex''s chest.


    Alex''s face drained of color. Terrified, he scrambled to roll away. But he wasn''t fast enough to stud the npletely, and one of the horse''s hooves came down on his right leg.


    "Ah!" he screamed in pain, his face contorted in agony. Sweat beaded on his forehead as pain rendered h


    motionless.


    His right leg was broken by the hit.


    From the stands, the crowd erupted into cheers.


    Brenna crossed the finish line, her victory indisputable.


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 Chapter 48

    Chapter 48 Two Hundred Million Received


    The white horse seemed to be dissatisfied with a single act of retribution. After stomping on Alex once, it reared up again, hooves suspended in the air before crashing down with brutal force-this time, directly onto Alex''s pelvis.


    A stunned silence settled over the arena. Every spectator held their breath, eyes locked on Alex, almost rooting for the horse to dole out further punishment.


    Though no one could say for sure what had provoked the horse''s sudden aggression, few were inclined to feel sorry for Alex.


    Given where the hooves hadnded, it was safe to assume Alex wouldn''t bepeting for at least two years- possibly even never again if his injury was severe enough.


    The crowd was pleased with that.


    "Ah!" Alex''s scream ripped through the air, a sharp, guttural cry of pain. His legs, his abdomen-every inch of his lower body felt as though it had been shattered beneath the crushing weight.


    Yet, rather than sympathy, the audience erupted in loud cheers.


    Event staff and medics rushed toward Alex. Some worked to restrain the still- agitated horse, while others


    tended to him.


    Meanwhile, the man who had won second ce approached the referee, his expression grim. He gestured toward Alex''s right middle finger and mimicked his earlier act of hitting the horse.


    The referee didn''t hesitate and dered, "Alex Espinoza is disqualified for using cruel and underhanded tactics in the race. Due to repeated vitions of internationalpetition regtions, along with unsportsmanlike behavior and personal attacks, he is permanently banned from entering this country!"


    "Congrattions!" As Ethan approached Brenna, his eyesnded on her, still wearing her sleek riding gear. The confidence radiating from her made her the most captivating presence in the arena.


    Rosie trailed after him, her jealousy barely concealed. She nced at Alex, now being carried away, and her expression darkened. She thought Alex was so useless; he couldn''t even defeat someone like Brenna.


    She had ced her bets on him winning, yet he had failed miserably.


    Wearing a cold, she strode toward Brenna, convinced that Brenna''s victory was nothing more than sheer luck In her mind, Brenna had only won because she had happened to choose the fastest horse. If she had been th one riding it, she would have also won.


    She spoke with a faint smile. To the people a bit far from them, it might have looked like she was offering


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    Chapter 48 Two Hundred Million Received


    congrattions.


    "What''s there to be so happy about? It''s just a local horse race, not some world championship. You''re acting like it''s the greatest aplishment of your life, Brenna. Honestly, it''s embarrassing."


    Brenna met her gaze with calm indifference. "You''re right. Compared to my other awards, this one doesn''t really count for much. Horse riding is just a hobby for me, and I can win some prize money along the way."


    "You!" Rosie seethed, her face twisting with anger.


    She had trained tirelessly for over a month, pouring effort into the race, only to fail before even reaching the


    finals.


    Yet, Brenna had made it sound like it was so easy to win.


    What kind of ridiculous statement was that?


    What made Rosie angrier was Ethan''s smile. Ever since he saw Brenna today, he hadn''t stopped looking at her


    with smiles.


    Rosie eximed in fury, "Ethan! Look at her! She''s acting so smug over something so trivial. Is that really


    necessary?"


    But Ethan didn''t even nce at her. Instead, he looked at Brenna, his tone warm. "Your control over the race was impressive¨Cgreat skills and even better strategy. We should have a friendly match sometime. I''d love to learn something from you. And I promised to treat you to a meal if you win. You can pick the ce now." Rosie, feeling ignored, reached for Ethan''s arm in desperation. Before she could touch him, Neville swiftly stepped in, blocking her. "Miss Harper, Mr. Mitchell has asked not to be disturbed," he said.


    Rosie stomped her foot, frustrated, watching Ethan walk away with Brenna.


    Brenna simply shrugged. "Anywhere is fine. I''m starving now," she replied.


    After she had changed out of her riding gear, her phone vibrated with a bank notification. She had received two hundred million.


    Her bet had paid off. She had wagered on herself, cing multiple two-thousand- dor bets.


    Determined not to back down, Rosie followed Ethan and Brenna, stealthily snapping photos-one of Brenna walking alongside Ethan and another of Ethan holding the car door open for her. Without hesitation, she sent them to Audrey.


    By all ounts, if a marriage alliance were to happen, it should be Audrey who got to marry Ethan, not Brenna. After all, Audrey''s father-Brenna''s uncle-had been the one who had saved Ethan''s father.


    Rosie smirked and muttered, "Brenna, if you think marrying Ethan will be that easy, you''re in for a hard lesson." Bing part of the Mitchell family wouldn''t be easy for Brenna!


    Rosie finally got into her own vehicle after Ethan''s car disappeared from sight.


    Sylvie had been injured, and Rosie needed to visit her at the hospital


    Sylvie''s injury was because of Brenna, and Rosie intended to make sure Brenna paid for it.


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    After the meal, Brenna took a cab to her sindie ry Tear to the Hanger de


    Rosie had arrived much earlier Once the tematy fished finder the girded the cake,


    her expression smug it was a betting agreement


    she looked at Brenna and said arrogantly, "Since we sin omat EN HEAVY CORVAN, JA''S AS IF


    speed


    official"


    Ciselle, who had been observing Rosie''s hostility toward Rinna set the party day and ed in delive Rosie. But she had held back from showing it, knowing that rate had low her part in some


    waye


    Picking up the document, Giselle carefully read through the taXTRE


    "Rosie," she said, her voice firm, "this doesn''t seem fair You and serve ave both p


    of the Harper family Why should she be denied ess to family resources if she lose? When you enjoyed the Harper family''s resources, did any of us ever say no?"

 Chapter 49

    Chapter 49 She''Probably Had stic Surgery


    The conditions outlined in the agreement were crafted with the clear intention of targeting Brenna


    If Brenna failed to secure first ce in the designpetition, she would be permanently stripped of any righ to the Harper Group''s shares. Additionally, she would lose ess to her monthly allowance.


    The document further stipted that, as an adult, Brenna was expected to be financially independent, forbidding her from relying on the Harper family for financial support. The family was also prohibited from providing her with employment opportunities, including offering her a job at the Harper Group.


    Every use was deliberately cruel, as though it were a formal deration that Brenna was not considered a


    true member of the Harper family.


    To make matters even worse, the clothes Brenna had received the previous day- purchased with Harper family


    funds-were now being treated as a debt she was expected to repay.


    Giselle''s expression darkened as she read through the document. Without hesitation, she handed the document to her husband and stated bluntly, "I don''t approve of this. Read it yourself-this effectively treats Brenna like an outsider. She is my daughter, and I have every right to provide for her. No one else gets to


    dictate otherwise."


    Shepard''s eyes scanned the pages, his expression bing increasingly dark. The more he read, the more his frustration grew. Fixing Rosie with a sharp look, he snapped, "Rosie, Brenna is my biological daughter. She has taken nothing from you. Why are you treating her this way?"


    Once finished, he passed the agreement to Luther.


    Luther and Tessa both adjusted their reading sses and leaned in, their expressions darkening with every use they read, unmistakable anger shing in their eyes.


    Even as her family bombarded her with disapproval, Rosie remained unshaken. She just felt a bit sad. Before Brenna''s return, she had been the pride of the Harper family-their most treasured member. Intelligent, well- educated, and highly capable, she had risen quickly within Harper Group. In just a year, she had established herself as a skilled general manager, earning both the admiration of her elders in the family and generous financial rewards they had been more than willing to grant her.


    Every achievement, every recognition, had been the result of her own hard work. She had proved herself time and again, securing not only a million-dor monthly allowance but also a significant share of the family business, ensuring steady annual dividends.


    She had worked tirelessly for everything she had. So why should Brenna-who had spent two decades outside the family-suddenly be handed the same privileges she had struggled to earn?


    Rosie refused to ept such injustice. She wouldn''t sit idly by and watch the family elders hand over what she


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    had fought for on a silver tter.


    Yet, the family elders clearly felt sorry for Brenna and had unanimously agreed topensate her with shares for the hardships she had endured outside the family.


    Rosie believed that was so unfair.


    What right did Brenna have to walk in and im wealth and privileges she hadn''t earned?


    She was determined to stop this from happening.


    Rosie nced coldly across the table. Aside from her brother, everyone seemed to disapprove of the agreement. But that only made her more determined to stand her ground.


    She said, "I''m not doing this out of spite. I have my reasons for doing this."


    Brenna''s expression remainedposed, though she knew Rosie wanted to strip her of any ess to the family''s resources. In fact, she had never even wanted the Harper Group''s shares. With two sessful studios of her own, she had more than enough wealth to sustain herself.


    Still, Rosie''s tant hostility made her ufortable. She was just as much a part of the Harper family as Rosie was, so why should she be denied ess to the family resources?


    She wasn''t going to back down.


    Luther studied the agreement, his displeasure evident as he shook his head. Tessa''s eyes were heavy with disappointment as she looked at Rosie.


    How could Rosie be this petty? After everything Shepard and Giselle had done for


    her, how could she target their daughter, her own cousin, like this?


    Brenna said to Rosie sharply, "You said you have your reasons for doing this. So say them now."


    A flicker of satisfaction crossed Rosie''s face when she saw that Brenna was angry. People tended to act irrationally when angry, and she wanted Brenna to be angry.


    Rosie crossed her arms over her chest, and she smirked at Brenna as she presented her argument.


    "Sure, you look like Giselle-there''s no denying that. But looking alike isn''t proof of anything. There are plenty of unrted people who resemble each other. Who''s to say you didn''t undergo stic surgery just to scam your way into our Harper family? I am not trying to target you, but that''s indeed a possibility."


    A ripple of murmurs spread through the room. Ernst nodded and said, "Rosie has


    a point. I suggest we conduct a DNA test."


    No one outright objected. After all, Rosie''s usation, however outrageous, sounded usible enough to be considered.


    Even Ableson and Jillian exchanged approving looks.


    Ernst turned to Brenna, his voice steady. "Would you also be willing to undergo a medical examination to prove you haven''t had stic surgery?" he asked.


    Brenna seethed with frustration. The Harper family''s wealth meant nothing to her- she had no desire to exploit their fortune, nor would she ever stoop to faking an identity for personal gain. "The Harper family may have power and influence, but I have no intention oftching onto it. If you refuse to believe me, I''ll just leave,"


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    she said coldly.


    Rosie''s smirk widened. "Did you all hear that? All Ernst did was suggest a simple


    test, and she immediately tried to back out. Her reluctance says it all-maybe she


    really did alter her face to look like Giselle," she said.


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    Chapter 50 I Can Leave Right Now


    Brenna stared at Rosie for a moment, then said in a measured and firm voice, "I haven''t undergone any cosmetic surgery, and I refuse to go to the hospital for an examination because the very suggestion is an insult."


    She then turned to Giselle and Shepard. "Do you both want me to take the examination?" she asked.


    Giselle had no doubts about Brenna''s identity. She said, ¡°Brenna, I believe you''re truly our daughter. We don''t need any test results to confirm it! No matter what others say, I trust you."


    Shepard also stood by Brenna''s side without hesitation. "Exactly, Brenna. I have no doubts, either. With your brilliance, you clearly take after me. There''s no need for any verification. Rosie, you''re taking this too far."


    He turned to re at Rosie.


    Rosie bit her lower lip in fury, but she forced herself to remainposed. If she lost her temper now, she would never seed in driving Brenna away.


    She said, "Dad, Mom, I understand how you feel. I also hope she''s not an imposter. But let''s be realistic-our family isn''t ordinary. We have immense wealth. If Brenna is lying and you grant her shares, she could manipte things and put the Harper Group at risk. We can''t afford to be careless. A simple check-up is all it takes. If Brenna doesn''t want to go to the hospital, I have a friend who''s a stic surgeon. He cane here and examine her."


    Once her friend arrived, the answer to whether Brenna had undergone surgery would rest entirely in her hands. Rosie scoffed inwardly, eager to see how Brenna would handle the situation.


    Ernst turned to Brenna, a skeptical look in his eyes. "Are you refusing the test because you indeed had stic surgery before? Don''t take us for fools. If you refuse, there''s no way I will acknowledge you as a member of our Harper family. Besides, you have been back for days and haven''t even once called my parents ''Mom'' and ''Dad''. That''s very odd."


    Brenna clenched her fists, realizing that the rich families were even more deceitful and maniptive than the Barrett family.


    She let out a cold chuckle, her eyes glinting with sarcasm. "And if the doctor confirms I''ve never had surgery, will you then say that facial simrities mean nothing, and that my resemnce to the family members doesn''t prove my identity?"


    Ernst faltered for a moment. That was exactly what he had been thinking. After a pause, he responded direct" "Of course."


    Rosie felt a surge of satisfaction. With Ernst siding with her and their


    grandparents and uncle yet to voice their opinions, she was certain they all supported her stance.


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    As long as she coordinated with her stic surgeon friend, there would be no obstacle in kicking Brenna out of the family. Even if Brenna was truly a Harper by blood, she would still be painted as an imposter.


    Rosie was confident the situation was turning in her favor.


    Giselle shot her son a sharp look. "What kind of nonsense are you sprouting? Do you not care about your sister''s feelings? Is this how you treat your sister?"


    Ernst remained firm, looking displeased. "Mom, just think about it. She''s clearly after our wealth. She has barely been here, and you, Dad, and Grandpa are already handing over shares. Isn''t that reckless? Aren''t you the least bit concerned that without a DNA test, she could just be someone who happens to resemble you but isn''t actually rted to us?"


    Brenna''s chest tightened with anger. She couldn''t understand why Ernst was so fixated on targeting her. "If you had doubts, why didn''t you speak up the moment I returned to the family?" she asked.


    Truthfully, Brenna wouldn''t object to a DNA test if the family insisted. But to her, it was proof that they didn''t truly ept her. Even if the test confirmed her identity as a member of the Harper family, the matter would always make her feel like an outsider.


    At this point, she really wanted to just leave the Harper family.


    Ernst shot back, "When you first got here, I didn''t realize how greedy you were. I kept waiting for you to call me and reject the shares I offered. If you were really my sister, you wouldn''t be so eager to take them."


    Brenna looked at Ernst coldly. "I have no interest in your shares. Even if I am a Harper, I never nned to im any of them. If I''m not wee here, I can leave right now."


    Rosie, seeing her chance, seized it. "See? The moment a DNA test is mentioned, you''re ready to run. That''s because you are uneasy now! You''re just here to scam us!"


    "That''s enough!" Giselle thundered, genuinely irritated. She shot Rosie a warning re. "You''ve gone too far!" Seeing that, Brenna was moved by Giselle''s unwavering trust in her.


    Rosie remained undeterred. She stepped closer to Giselle, gently taking her arm as she spoke in a measured tone. "Mom, I understand that you miss your real daughter and carry guilt over what happened. But we have to be rational about this. We can''t just wee anyone who ims to be her without proof. She just needs to take a simple test."


    Giselle hesitated, Rosie''s calm reasoning making it difficult for her to reprimand her further. But her heart still ached. She said, "Rosie, if Brenna truly is my daughter, can you imagine how painful it must be for her to be doubted like this?"


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    Chapter 51 This Agreement


    Is Fair


    Giselle''s expression turned icy. Rosie''s argument might have sounded reasonable, but she had no doubt that Brenna was her long-lost daughter. She knew that forcing Brenna to take a DNA test and sign a conditional agreement would hurt her.


    "I won''t allow it!" Giselle dered sharply, shoving Rosie aside without hesitation. She had treated Posle like her own daughter for years, yet now, Rosie was trying to kick her real daughter out. That was something she simply couldn''t tolerate.


    Rosie felt a deep sense of anger. She also felt disappointed in Giselle.


    Turning to Shepard, she put on a pitiful act. "Dad, look at Mom! I''m not making things up, but she''s being so


    unreasonable.*


    She then turned to Luther and Tessa, her eyes full of feigned innocence. "Grandpa, Grandma, tell me-am i really in the wrong? All I want is to clear up any doubts about Brenna. Is that a bad thing?"


    Meanwhile, Brenna picked up the agreement, carefully reading through every use. Her expression remainedposed as she finally spoke. ¡°I don''t have an issue with the DNA test. But this agreement-this is a problem. It only penalizes me if I lose the automotive designpetition, but what about you? There''s no consequence if you fail. On top of that, the rewards from the Harper family are only mentioned in your favor. This isn''t a fair


    contract."


    Rosie was well aware that the agreement was biased; she had crafted the terms herself to protect her interests. But for it to even take effect, Brenna had to be a legitimate Harper.


    She smirked, feeling pleased with her clever setup. Brenna had no way around this.


    Rosie said, "Fine. Sign it first; then you''ll do the DNA test. If it turns out you''re really a Harper, I''ll add some better terms for you. If not..."


    Brenna scoffed, mming the table, "Absolutely not! Signing it would mean I ept these conditions. Do you


    take me for a fool?"


    Though she had no issue with the DNA test itself-she had wanted to do it anyway-there was no way she''d agree to such a lopsided deal.


    Brenna said, "Rewrite the terms first. Then I''ll consider signing."


    ,


    Rosie refused to back down. "No. You need to prove you''re a Harper first," she said.


    Ernst sneered, throwing in his own jab, "If you''re not part of this family, you don''t even have the right to


    it."


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    Chapter 61 This Agreement let


    Giselle had beard enough Furious, she ched the contract from wan''s hands and tore se so shreds


    She would protect her daughter''s rights, even if it merge Poste


    This spreement ispletely unter to Brenne she decteren mama & FAN SHR PLATE-


    Shepard nodded in agreement. "That''s right. We''ll handle


    Bosje''s eyes welled with tears as she looked at them in diabetet "row always called you Mom and bad. How can you turn your backs on me for her?" she exid


    Giselle''s voice was cold and firm. "le are not going to turn our backs on our real daughter. The truth is, we''re not your biological parents, Posie. From now on, don''t call us Mom and Dad, you should call as Uncle and Aunt since that is the reality"


    Utterly disappointed, Luther flung a re at Rosie, "Do as your aunt Giselle says. Change the way you address


    them from now on."


    It was clear to him now that they had spoiled Rosie so much that she had be so arrogant


    Ernst couldn''t take it anymore. He stepped in to defend Rosle, saying, "Rosie lost her parents when she was young, and this is how you treat her?"


    Shepard lost his patience and stared coldly at his eldest son. "Shut up! Did I give you permission to speak? And don''t forget-you''re part of this agreement, too. If Brenna takes first ce, you will lose your position as the Vice President of the Harper Group,"


    Ernst scoffed, "She''s not capable of winning first ce."


    Shepard''s anger only grew. "You''d rather tear down your own sister than acknowledge her talent? A leader who judges with bias and refuses to be rational isn''t fit to run the Harper Group. I don''t think you deserve to be the Vice President of thepany."


    Turning to Giselle, he said, "Bring me myputer. I''ll draft this agreement myself."


    He had already thought of the crucial terms in his head. The moment Giselle handed him theptop, his fingers moved swiftly across the keyboard, and within half an hour, a fair agreement wasplete.


    The document clearly defined the roles and responsibilities of all three parties, along with the consequences of


    losing the wager.


    Once it was printed, Brenna carefully reviewed it before nodding, "Mom, Dad, this agreement is fair. I''ll sign it." Giselle, overjoyed, turned to her husband. "Honey, did you hear that? She called us Mom and Dad."


    Shepard''s face softened with a smile as he nodded. "Yes. And once the paternity results confirm everything, I''ll allocate Brenna an extra share of thepany. We have to make up for all the years we lost."


    Ernst''s mood turned sour as he read the agreement, his hands shaking slightly. "Mom, Dad, why are you stripping me of all my shares if I lose the bet?"


    Shepard let out a cold snort. "That''s the cost of your reckless actions. Why should Brenna risk losing everyt if she doesn''t win, while you walk away unscathed? This needs to be fair."


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    Chapter 52 Get Ready To Be Kicked Out Of The Harpe...


    Ernst''s grip on the pen was so tight that his knuckles turned pale under the strain.


    He turned to look at Brenna and said bitterly, "Happy now? You''ve won. I have to step down as the Vice President and forfeit five percent of my shares in the Harper Group,"


    Deep down, it wasn''t that he doubted Brenna''s identity-he simply couldn''t stomach what he saw as her


    insatiable greed.


    However, if he had to pay such a high price for targeting Brenna, he felt it wasn''t worth it.


    He was hesitant to sign this.


    Brenna looked at him in silence, a cold look on her face. When she saw his hesitation, she snorted and said, "You don''t want to give up the status and luxury thate with being a Harper, huh?¡±


    Rosie, unaware of the full details of the agreement, instantly sensed something was wrong from Ernst''s reaction. She grabbed a copy from his hand, scanning the terms. The moment she reached the section concerning herself, her voice rang out in protest, sharp with outrage. "Why should I lose my shares and be cut off from my allowance if I lose the bet?"


    If this agreement were enforced and she lost the bet, she would have no further im to the Harper family''s wealth. Every privilege she had enjoyed would be stripped away.


    Her future would rest entirely on her own abilities.


    That was uneptable!


    "Grandpa, Grandma!" She hurriedly handed the document to Luther. "Look at this! Uncle Shepard and Aunt Giselle are beingpletely unreasonable. What right do they have to take everything from me?"


    She couldn''t ept it-losing everything she had was out of the question.


    Luther read the agreement carefully. After a while, he spoke, his tone firm. "This agreement is fair. This is exactly how it should be. You were quick to argue that Brenna is an adult and doesn''t need financial support from the family. But you are an adult, too, aren''t you? Plus, you''ve been working for two years. You shouldn''t need financial support, from the family, either. This is final. Regardless of how this wager ys out, all allowances for adults in this family will be discontinued."


    Turning to Ernst, he said icily, "Sign it."


    Ernst hesitated briefly but ultimately pressed the pen to paper, signing all three copies with such force that the paper nearly tore.


    Despite her unwillingness, Rosie had no choice but to sign as well.


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    Later that evening, Brenna returned to her room. After taking a shower, she settled at her desk, turning on herputer to continue working on a design. There was still an issue with the cargo ship''s advanced power system, it needed refining


    As she concentrated on her work, a knock sounded at the door. Without turning to look, she called out, "Come


    in


    Assuming it was a servant delivering ate-night snack, she added absentmindedly. "No need to bring me snacks anymore. I''m not exactly a huge fan of them.*


    A scoff broke the silence, followed by Rosie''s mocking voice. "Already diving into your design? How ambitious. But it''s pointless. I''ve seen what you designed for the Barrett family before-it was awful. The Harper Group''s designpetition attracts top-tier professionals from all over the world. Do you seriously think you can win


    first ce? You''ll be lucky to even get an honorable mention."


    Earlier, she had fretted over the possibility of Brenna actually winning, but Ernst had reassured her. And now, standing here, she realized her concerns were ridiculous. Brenna simplycked the talent.


    Even though she had signed the agreement, it didn''t matter.


    And if, by some miracle, Brenna''s work showed potential, she could always manipte the results to ensure


    Brenna lost.


    One way or another, Brenna would never have a chance to seed.


    Rosie''s eyes flicked toward Brenna''sputer screen, her lips curling in disdain. The design was entirely


    unrted to automobiles.


    She leaned in for a closer look, but before she could make out the details, Brenna snapped theptop shut.


    Brenna turned to Rosie and said, "Oh? From what I know, you majored in finance and management. You know nothing about design. If anyone''s bound to fail, it''s you."


    Rosie had already prepared for thepetition. There were numerous design experts in the country, and she had saved up enough money over the years. A little expenditure, and she could easily purchase the best design


    avable.


    Of course, she needed to keep this a secret. She had already discreetly reached out to some top designers in


    the country.


    Rosie said, "You seem concerned about me, but I''ve picked up more than you think. Our family''s automotive industry is booming, so I''ve privately learned some design skills. I''m much more skilled than you, Brenna. Get ready to be kicked out of the Harper family."


    Brenna''stared at Rosie with a calm expression. "Why did you say that? Even if I don''t win, I won''t be kicked out of the Harper family. That is not in the terms." Rosie''s words carried an undercurrent of something suspicious. Brenna met her gaze and saw the calcting


    look in her eyes.


    She asked bluntly, "Are you nning to tamper with the DNA test results?"


    Rosie froze, clearly caught off guard by Brenna''s keen intuition, which had exposed her scheme.


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    She quickly regained herposure and responded with feigned calmness, "How could I do such a thing? Do you really think I''m that kind of person? Don''t mistake me for a viin. My issue with you is simple you seduced Ethan. I''m just here to tell you to stay away from him. The Harper family has a marriage agreement with the Mitchell family because Uncle Ableson saved Ethan''s father. If the Mitchells and Harpers are meant to unite through marriage, Audrey is the one Ethan should marry, not you


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 Chapter 53

    Chapter 53 You''re Not Our Daughter


    Brenna had no idea what Rosie was up to, but she knew it was definitely nothing good. Rosie''s fake smile and calcting gaze made it painfully obvious.


    She met Rosie''s gaze with a smirk and said, "Don''t tell me your ultimate life goal is to marry rich."


    She didn''t hold back. "Seriously? You''re still stuck on that? Can''t you aim for something else? Is life impossible


    without a man?"


    Rosie''s expression darkened. Feeling mocked, she quickly retorted, "I think you''re the one who is like that. The moment you came back, you seduced Ethan. He is now wrapped around your finger, doting on you nonstop. If anyone''s desperate tond a man, it''s you."


    Brenna''s patience thinned. She shot her a sharp look and corrected her, saying, "Did you see me seducing him? He''s the one clinging to me."


    A thought crossed Brenna''s mind, and a soft chuckle escaped her lips. The mockery in her eyes was unmistakable. In a jeering tone, she said, "I see. He has never treated you the way he treats me, has he? You are jealous."


    Sheughed again and continued, her tone light but cutting, "Guess men don''t just pick women based on family background after all. Seems like you''re not as impressive as you think."


    Rosie''s face twisted with anger. She red at Brenna and snapped, "What''s that supposed to mean? Are you insulting me?"


    Brenna arched a brow, as if she had just confirmed something. "It''s not an insult. It''s a fact. You''ve been clinging to Ethan, but he barely acknowledges you. You keeping after me because of him. That just proves your real goal in life is just secure a wealthy husband. Tell me I''m wrong."


    Rosie stiffened, caught off guard by Brenna''s words. Brenna had peeled back her intentions like an open book. Flustered, she eximed, "Stop making this about me! As if you''re any different!"


    With that, Rosie spun on her heel and turned to leave, mming the door behind her.


    Brenna barely spared her a nce. She opened herptop, and her eyes flicked back to her design drafts. Under her breath, she muttered, "All she ever thinks about is men. Pathetic."


    Her lips curled in disdain. Rosie had wealth, privilege, and every opportunity at her fingertips, yet no ambition.


    What a waste.


    Meanwhile, Rosie stormed into her room, seething. She grabbed a pillow and hurled it onto the bed. "She dar to call me obsessed with men? As if she isn''t? Before she even became part of the Harper family, she was already using Ethan to protect her. She''s nothing but a whore!"


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    The more she thought about how Ethan always defended Brenna, the more her jealousy burned


    Why? What made Brenna so special? Why had Ethan never treated her that way?


    She couldn''t understand it.


    Just then, a thought struck her. If Brenna wasn''t a Harper, would Ethan still care about her?


    No. He would probably abandon her in an instant, thinking she wasn''t good enough for him.


    Rosie muttered, ¡°Just wait, Brenna. You''ll be kicked out of the Harper family soon enough."


    She snatched up her phone, her expression dark as she dialed a number. Her grip tightened around the device as she thought of a way to win over Giselle and Shepard again. She had spent years calling them mom and dad and treating them like her real parents. Now that Brenna was back, was she just supposed to stop calling them


    that? No way.


    Giselle''s words had been cruel earlier. Rosie wouldn''t admit it out loud, but they stung her more than she had expected.


    She couldn''t just let this go. If she lost the right to call them Mom and Dad, and worse, lost her shares in Harper Group, her entire future would be in shambles.


    Even if Giselle was disappointed in her, she had to make things right. No matter how shameless she had to be to do that.


    She stood at the door for what felt like forever, summoning the courage to leave her room and go to apologize to Giselle. In her mind, she yed out every possible scenario, most of them ending with Giselle shutting her out without a second thought.


    Taking a shaky breath, she finally turned the handle, stepped into the hallway, and headed for Giselle''s room. She wasn''t sure if those harsh words had been spoken in anger or if Giselle had truly meant them. If she apologized now, would she be forgiven? Or would she only humiliate herself further?


    Doubt gnawed at her, but she kept walking


    "Rosie." Just then, a voice echoed from behind her.


    Rosie turned to see Ernst standing on the stairs, now dressed in casual clothes, looking at her.


    For a brief moment, Rosie felt like a child caught sneaking around. Unease flickered across her face. After a moment of silence, she admitted, "Ernst, I messed up earlier. I said something that upset Mom, and now... I don''t know if she and Dad will forgive me."


    She rarely voiced her fears, but with Ernst, it was different. He had always been on her side. After a pause, she added, "They seemed really mad earlier."


    "Mom and Dad won''t stay angry with you forever. I''ll go with you." Ernst descended the stairs and knocked on the bedroom door. He had a few things to say to Giselle and Shepard, too.


    A momentter, the door swung open.


    Giselle stood there, her face still tight with anger. When she saw them standing there, her expression didn''t


    soften


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    < Chapter 53 You''re Not Our Daughter


    "What are you doing here?" she asked coldly.


    Ernst nced inside. His father was sitting on the sofa, reading the newspaper.


    His eyes never lifted toward the door. He was clearly still angry.


    "Mom, Dad, I have something to say to you," Ernst said steadily.


    Giselle hesitated for a moment, then stepped aside and let them in. She beside her husband and said in a


    cold voice, "Say what you need to."


    Rosie could feel the weight of the tension in the room. Had Giselle and Shepard been arguing before she arrived?


    She swallowed her nerves and forced herself to speak. "Mom, Dad, I was wrong earlier."


    Giselle red at her and snapped, "You''re not our daughter. No need to apologize to us."


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 Chapter 54

    Chapter 54 We Have To Protect Our Daughter


    Rosie''s heart ached with disappointment. The very thing she had feared hade true-rom the that biological daughter had returned, Giselle and Shepard no longer was her as part of the family thete like outsider in the Harper household


    Her eyes brimmed with tears, but she bit her lip, determined not to let her tears fall. A were of hatred for Brenna surged within her. She was also sad and believed that neither Giselle nor Shepard had ever troby cat


    for her.


    "Mom, Dad..." Her voice wavered. If they no longer wanted her to call them that, she would never forgive them As for Brenna she would make sure she never truly became part of the Harper family, no matter what it took.


    If they could be ruthless to her, so could she.


    Giselle''s face remained cold, while Shepard continued reading his newspaper, ignoring Rosie as if she hadn''t spoken at all.


    The couple''s firm stance unsettled Ernst, who had been watching the exchange closely.


    Dropping to her knees, Rosie broke down in tears. "Mom, Dad, please. I wasn''t trying to hurt Brenna-1 only spoke the truth. How is that wrong?" she said.


    Giselle turned her head away, refusing to acknowledge Rosie. She had long seen through her maniptions, realizing that her every action, every word, was meant to drive Brenna away.


    Rosie''s eyes darted to Ernst, silently pleading for support.


    Perplexed by his parents'' indifference, Ernst quickly tried to pull Rosie up. "Rosie, don''t do this. Stand up.


    Rosie''s sobs grew louder. "Not until Mom and Dad forgive me!"


    Frustrated, Ernst said in an angry voice, "Forgive you for what? You didn''t do anything wrong, Now get up.


    Giselle red at her son, bewildered at his foolishness.


    Already impatient, Shepard jabbed a finger toward the door, his voice furious. "Enough! Both of you-get out!"


    Giselle remained silent.


    Rosie covered her face and ran out of the room, her sobs echoing down the hall.


    Fuming. Ernst turned to his parents and said, "How can you do this? Rosie has called you Mom and Dad for over twenty years, and now, you''re casting her aside for an outsider? Do you know how much this will hurt her? Without warning, Shepard struck Ernst across the face. He eximed, "You call my own daughter an outsider? What''s wrong with me caring for my own flesh and blood? Do you think I need you to tell me how to treat my


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    Ernst held his cheek, stunned. His father hadn''t hit him since he was twenty, but today, because of Brenna, he did. He turned back slowly, his eyes cold and contemptuous. "If Brenna were really my sister, I''d treat her well. But I don''t believe that''s the case-I think she''s only here to take advantage of us as a fraud. I get that you miss your daughter and feel guilty, but that only matters if she''s really your daughter."


    Giselle barked, "She is my daughter! Do you think we didn''t thoroughly instigate before finding her? Do you think we''d let just anyone walk into this family and fool us?"


    Shepard jabbed a finger toward the door. "Go and apologize to your sister."


    Ernst folded his arms and replied, "Not until a DNA test confirms she''s actually my sister. I''m not going to apologize to a stranger or ept her as family."


    With that, he turned and left the room.


    Giselle, seething, turned to her husband. ¡°Unbelievable. How could he act this way toward his own sister? He haspletely lost his mind. He doesn''t even recognize who his real sister is."


    Shepard''s expression darkened. ¡°This is my fault. I was too soft-hearted back then and allowed Rosie to call us Mom and Dad, even though she wasn''t our daughter. Now, we''re paying the price."


    Giselle sighed. "I know I just worry that Rosie won''t understand us. She might think we don''t love her anymore. What if she resents us for this?"


    Shepard waved his hand dismissively. "Then let her. I won''t let our real daughter suffer because of her. Still, no matter what happens, I''ll always take care of her- as her uncle."


    Giselle gave a solemn nod. "Exactly. We can''t let our real daughter be mistreated. Rosie deliberately targeted our daughter today-we have to protect our daughter. Brenna has already endured so much hardship out there. She shouldn''t have to suffer in her own home, too."


    The moment Rosie stepped into her room, her tears stopped. She grabbed a tissue and wiped her face. The sorrow on her face vanished, reced by a cold, calcting expression.


    Rachael entered, bncing a te of neatly sliced fruit. She blinked in concern as she took in Rosie''s red eyes. "Miss Harper, eat some fruit," she said softly.


    Rosie sat motionless, lost in thought.


    Rachael set the te down gently and spoke cautiously. "I heard what you said to Mrs. Harper. You''re pushing them to turn against their own daughter. That''s not the way to handle this."


    Rosie nced up, surprised by Rachael''s words. "Then tell me what should I do? I''m not lying. Without a DNA test, we have no way of proving Brenna belongs to this family. So what''s wrong with me doubting her identity?"


    < The Phantom Heiress: Rising From The Shadows

 Chapter 55

    Chapter 55 I Don''t Have


    Time For Your Childish...


    In the morning, Brenna came down the stairs with her backpack. Rosie and Ernst were at the table, already


    done with breakfast. They seemed deep in conversation but went silent the moment they saw her.


    Brenna only cast them a brief nce, then headed to the kitchen and poured herself a cup of coffee.


    "I''ve already arranged everything with the hospital. We''re going now to check if you''ve had any cosmetic


    surgery," Rosie said to Brenna firmly, leaving no room for argument.


    Brenna took a slow sip of the coffee. The coffee was too bitter. Ignoring Rosie''s words, she set the cup down


    and gestured for the servant to bring some sugar.


    "Did you hear me? I already made an appointment with the hospital. A friend of mine is a stic surgeon, and


    he''ll check you," Rosie said, clearly annoyed.


    Seeing Brenna''s indifference, Ernst frowned. He said to Brenna, "What''s with that attitude? Rosie''s just trying to help. How can you just ignore her? That is so rude."


    A smug look crossed Rosie''s face. She was confident Ernst would take her side. He always did. She believed the thought that she was setting Brenna up never even crossed his mind.


    To Ernst, she was the perfect sister-sweet, clever, and gentle. She had always been kind in his eyes.


    Brenna, on the other hand, was everything Rosie wasn''t in Ernst''s eyes. She was vain, materialistic, and maniptive. Unreasonable, even.


    Rosie watched Brenna with a triumphant look. She waited, believing Brenna would have to agree to go.


    "She''s trying to help?" Brenna scoffed. "You really think she is helping me? If I go, the hospital will definitely


    say I''ve had stic surgery."


    She wasn''t stupid. Rosie had set a trap, and she was just waiting for her to walk right into it.


    Ernst, however, saw things differently. "Are you scared?"


    "Why should I listen to you?" Brenna shot back without a second thought. "Mom, Dad, Grandpa, and Grandma didn''t agree to this. They only approved a DNA test. Now, just because I won''t cooperate, you''re calling me scared? You just want to use me of having stic surgery, no matter what the truth is. Don''t you think you''re being unreasonable here?"


    She took another bite of her breakfast and casually sent a message on her phone, as if the conversation didn''t


    concern her.


    Furious, Rosie turned to Ernst. "Ernst, look at her! Is it so wrong to ask her to prove she hasn''t had stic surgery? If she really looks like Mom naturally, why not just cooperate? I went through all the trouble of


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    Chapter 55 I Don''t Have Time For Your Childish Games


    arranging the matter with the hospital, and if she refuses to go now, it will make me look bad."


    Brenna ignored her and kept her focus on her meal.


    Livid at her defiance, Ernst firmly dered, "You''re going to the hospital with us today. I''m not my parents, so


    I won''t let you get away with this. If you refuse, I will tell my parents and grandparents that your resemnce to my mother is because of stic surgery."


    Brenna met his cold gaze unflinchingly. Then, she calmly finished her coffee and grabbed her backpack and phone to leave. "Go ahead. Let''s see who will believe you. I''m busy. I don''t have time for your childish games."


    She shot Ernst a disdainful look. "With your intelligence, how did you even be the Vice President of the


    Harper Group?"


    Ernst watched her walk away with an icy gaze. But for all his anger, there was nothing he could do to stop her.


    Unbeknownst to them, Luther and Tessa exited the elevator just in time to witness the scene. The former didn''t hesitate and scolded his grandson, "Almost 30 but still so immature. I think your parents were right to


    send you for some training at the primary level of thepany."


    "Grandpa..." Rosie slipped into her usual coy self and approached Luther. "What did Ernst do wrong? What''s so bad about having a doctor check Brenna? What is she afraid of if she hasn''t had stic surgery? I think she''s feeling uneasy."


    Luther sat down calmly. "Let me ask you this-what do you n to do if it turns out Brenna hasn''t had surgery? And if she has, then what? She''s your family! And this is how you want to treat her?"


    Thest two sentences were punctuated by a sharp p on the table.


    Rosie and Ernst flinched. Seeing the anger in Luther''s eyes, they dared not say another word.


    Instead, they exchanged uneasy nces as they realized something. The whole family was on Brenna''s side. To everyone else, they were the unreasonable ones.


    Before they could say anything, Luther said, "This nonsense ends now. We agreed to a DNA test. But pushing for a cosmetic surgery check? That crosses the line. You''re not treating Brenna as family. Ernst, you''re supposed to be her brother. If she were really your sister, would you apologize to her?"


    His voice was firm, and his expression was serious.


    Ernst was speechless. He had never considered that question before, nor had he ever thought of apologizing to Brenna. All he saw was how easily she had deceived the whole family.


    Luther let out a heavy snort. "You wouldn''t, right? I knew it!"


    Ernst hesitated, choosing his words carefully. ¡°Grandpa, if Brenna were my real sister, I''d apologize to her. But she really is materialistic-"


    Luther''s cane struck the floor with a sharp crack. "Materialistic? And how exactly is she materialistic? Because she epts gifts from her elders in the family? Every year, I buy you gifts and send you money, and you ept them all. Does that make you materialistic, too?"


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 Chapter 56

    Chapter 56 Dalton Returns


    Brenna spent het morning treating Vincent. By the afternoon, she was at the studio, finalizing the sale of her


    cargo ship''s nuclear power system design. She also evaluated drafts submitted by several designers for other clients. By the time she arrived home, night had already fallen.


    Downstairs, Rosie sat in the living room with a man dressed in a white coat. The rest of the Harper family was


    absent, likely upied with their own affairs.


    Brenna wasn''t the least bit surprised. Each member of the Harper family had their own responsibilities, so it


    was natural for them not to be home from time to time.


    Rosie stormed up to Brenna, seething. "What have you been doing all day? I called and messaged you, but you


    ignored me! Do you even realize how long the two of us have been waiting for you here?"


    It was only then that Brenna fully noticed the man beside Rosie. He seemed to be in his early thirties, his face


    mostly hidden behind a medical mask, with only a pair of deep eyes visible. From what little she could see, he


    was quite handsome.


    A name tag was pinned to his coat, disying his photo and department details.


    A metal casebeled "Dorhill Medical stic Surgery Hospital" rested at his feet. Brenna raised an eyebrow, finding the situation amusing. She said to Rosie, "So, you actually hired someone to


    verify whether I''ve had stic surgery? And who is this exactly? What are his credentials? How long has he been in the field? Is he even qualified?"


    She stepped closer, gripping his name tag for a better look. It read: Hackett Martinez, Resident Physician.


    From what she knew, a resident physician was barely above a fresh graduate. They had only just gained authority to diagnose and prescribe medication independently, and chances were, this man wasn''t even permitted to perform surgeries yet.


    For someone with such unimpressive credentials, he certainly was bold toe to the Harper residence.


    "This guy doesn''t seem very reliable." Brenna made her stance clear and turned to head upstairs.


    Rosie, infuriated by Brenna''s dismissive attitude, stepped in front of her, blocking her path. "You''re not going anywhere! He''s my friend! He graduated with a PhD from a top foreign university-he''s qualified enough to examine you!"


    She then turned to Hackett. "Come here; examine her now!"


    Before Hackett could respond, a series of sharp honks cut through the air. A sleek ck luxury van glided into the driveway. The door swung open, and a stylish young man stepped out of the car.


    He was strikingly handsome, with sharp features and an effortless air of confidence. Carrying a stack of shopping bags, he strode briskly into the living


    room.


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    Brenna had seen the Harper family''s group photo before, so she recognized him immediately-he was Dalton, her second elder brother. He was a renowned celebrity.


    Rosie''s face lit up with excitement. Dalton had always been the most indulgent to her, showering her with


    gifts whenever he visited and never refusing her requests for signed photos.


    She eagerly rushed over, her eyes locked onto the bags in his hands. Reaching out, she tried to take them from


    him. "Dalton! Why didn''t you tell me you were returning? I would''ve gone to pick you up!"


    Instead of answering Rosie, Dalton looked at Brenna, studying herposed and strikingly beautiful sister with


    curiosity. ¡°You must be Brenna," he said.


    Rosie tugged at the bags again, expecting him to hand them over. "Dalton, you can give me these now."


    Dalton continued to ignore Rosie. He pulled the bags away from her and handed them to Brenna. ¡°Brenna, I have been buried in work these past few days and couldn''t return sooner. I apologize for noting home to see you sooner. These are for you-you have to ept them and forgive me."


    Despite having never met Brenna before, Dalton felt no sense of distance


    between them. The moment he saw her, she felt like family.


    Brenna felt the same. Despite his superstar status, Dalton was remarkably warm and approachable, without a trace of arrogance.


    She epted the gifts without hesitation and shed him a bright smile. "It''s good to finally meet you, Dalton," she said.


    Dalton grinned, looking as excited as a child. "Out of the three of us, you look the most like Mom!"


    After a pause, he continued in a gentle voice, "Since you just returned to the family, I wasn''t sure what you''d like or need, so I grabbed a little bit of everything. If anything doesn''t suit you, just throw it away-I''ll get you new ones next time."


    Brenna peeked inside the bags-luxury skincare sets, plush toys, thetest designer handbags, and an assortment of high-end snacks. Her eyes sparkled. "I love them all!"


    Rosie stood frozen, watching as Brenna happily epted the gifts. Not a single one was for her.


    What was even worse, Dalton clearly liked Brenna-a lot. How could this be possible?


    Day after day, she had ndered Brenna in their private family group chat- branding her as greedy, vain, and maniptive, even iming she was after Audrey''s fianc¨¦. So why did Dalton still like Brenna?


    "Dalton! Where are my gifts?" Rosie''s eyes flicked to the ones in Brenna''s hands, waiting for Dalton to present hers. It wasn''t about the presents-she just refused to let Brenna have it all.


    Dalton finally spared her a nce. "Yours are in the car. Go get them yourself," he replied.


    Without another thought, he pulled Brenna over to the sofa and sat down beside her. "How are you feeling living here? Are you fitting in well? If not, I own a few properties; you can pick some for yourselves.

 Chapter 57

    Chapter 57 Why Are You So Obsessed With Targeting...


    Rosie had expected her gift to be just as impressive as Brenna''s. It should be a designer bag or luxury skincare


    set, at the very least. Excited, she ran to the garage and climbed into the van.


    The next second, her smile faltered. Piled across the seats were plush toys, but not the high-end kind. They looked like cheap fan gifts. Scattered among them were flowers, sticky notes, and envelopes, all haphazardly thrown together.


    She shoved the plush toys aside, expecting something valuable hidden underneath, but there was nothing. Furious, she stomped her foot. She didn''t need expensive gifts, but theck of them made her feel not valued.


    Fury bubbled up inside her. She stomped her foot again, but this time harder. Unable to contain her frustration, she turned on her heel and stormed back into the house to confront Dalton. "Where''s my gift?" she asked


    sharply.


    Dalton was deep in conversation with Brenna and barely nced at Rosie. "Aren''t those plush toys gifts? And the flowers... You can take whichever ones you like."


    Rosie''s gaze flicked to the pile of expensive gifts beside Brenna. Without thinking, she marched over and reached for them. "Why did you give her those while my gifts are just what your fans gave you? That''s not fair.


    I want hers."


    Dalton pped her hand away. "Can you even hear yourself? Why are you being so unreasonable? Brenna just got back. Of course, I gave her something nicer. And now you''re throwing a tantrum over gifts? I''ve given you plenty before. This isn''t about fairness. You''re just trying to take what''s hers. I can''t believe you''re being this petty."


    Brenna smirked and leaned over to shield her gifts. Then, with an amused expression, she said, "Dalton just skipped giving you a gift this one time. You''re not actually trying to take mine now, are you? These are the first gifts he''s ever given me. They are special. I really don''t want to give them to anyone else."


    Dalton could see now-these two clearly didn''t get along with each other.


    Rosie wasn''t just upset. She was targeting Brenna outright. Her messages in the family group chat had already hinted at it.


    Hackett had been trying to get Dalton''s attention for a while. He opened his mouth several times, only to be ignored. But now, seeing an opening, he stepped forward and turned to Rosie. "Rosie, are we still doing the check-up?" he asked.


    Rosie''s eyes lit up. Scoffing, she seized the perfect chance to humiliate Brenna, especially in front of Dalton. Brenna had only been here a few days. There was no way she could outmaneuver her.


    With an air of importance, she said, "Yes, let''s do it now."


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    It was only at this moment that Dalton noticed the man in the doctor''s coat in the living room. He stood up and asked with a frown, "What''s going on? Is someone sick?"


    Rosie quickly pulled him aside and exined, "Dalton, just look at how much Brenna resembles Giselle. It''s too


    much. I don''t think she''s really her daughter. I think she got stic surgery to look like her. This doctor is a


    friend of mine. I asked him toe and verify if Brenna has had any work done."


    Dalton''s expression turned ice-cold. He yanked his arm from Rosie''s grip and snapped, "Enough! She''s my mother''s biological daughter. Of course, they look alike. Why would she need stic surgery?"


    Rosie stood her ground. "And what if she did have stic surgery before? The doctor''s already here. One check,


    and we''ll kno for sure."


    Dalton''s eyes shed with irritation. "Absolutely not. This is beyond humiliating. I don''t need proof to know


    she''s my real sister, and I won''t let you treat her like some fraud."


    Rosie hadn''t expected Dalton to defend Brenna like this. Jealousy burned inside her. Brenna and Dalton had a


    real sibling bond, and this was something her rtionship with Dalton couldn''tpete with.


    "Why can''t we do that? If she hasn''t had surgery, a check-up will prove it." Rosie turned to Brenna and sneered, "You''re not scared, are you? If you are feeling uneasy, it probably means you really had stic surgery to alter your face before."


    Frustration boiling over, she pointed an using finger at Brenna and demanded, "If you didn''t have stic surgery, what''s there to be scared of? If you''ve got nothing to hide, why are you refusing to get examined?"


    She turned to Hackett andmanded, "Dr. Martinez, begin the examination now!"


    Hackett hesitated, unsure whether to proceed given the tense atmosphere in the room.


    Brenna exhaled. She knew how this would go. If she refused, Rosie would not let the matter drop.


    "Fine. But I don''t trust the person you brought. I want to bring another expert here," Brenna said.


    Rosieughed sardonically. ¡°Oh, of course. So you can bring in someone who''ll fake the results for you?"


    "Who knows if this is just another setup to nder me? Maybe the person you brought will fake the results,"


    Brenna shot back.


    Dalton exhaled sharply, his patience wearing thin. It was clear to him that neither of them was willing to back down. Unable to take it any longer, he asked, "Rosie, why are you so obsessed with targeting Brenna?"


    Rosie lifted her chin and said, "I''m not targeting her. I''m just looking out for everyone."


    Brenna crossed her arms. "I don''t trust the person she brought, Dalton. You find someone else."


    Dalton didn''t hesitate. With a curt nod, he pulled out his phone and made a call. When he spoke, his tone was unusually polite and measured. Whoever he was speaking to was clearly someone renowned in the field.


    As soon as he ended the call, Rosie bristled. "What''s wrong with the person I brought? He''s from Dorhill Medical stic Surgery Hospital, one of the best hospitals in the country."


    She yanked Hackett over and said, "I didn''t just drag in some nobody. He''s my friend, a graduate from a top international university, and highly qualified for this kind of examination."


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    < The Phantom Heiress Rising From

 Chapter 58

    Chapter 58 Miss Harper Has Never Undergone...


    Hackett pull


    well-known


    aside, lov g his voice to a conspiratorial whisper. He recognized Dalton, but only by his


    name, never realizing that his surname was actually Harper.


    Running into a celebrity like Dalton had momentarily left him stunned. Once the excitement settled, an rming realization hit him.


    He said to Rosie, "Rosie, the expert Dalton brought in is someone I know-Colt Guzman, one of the top stic


    surgeons in the country. He''s highly respected in the field, and if I try to fabricate evidence, he''ll expose it in an


    instant"


    Panic flickered across Rosie''s face. Thest thing she wanted was for Colt to evaluate Brenna, but there was no


    way to prevent it now. "So what do we do? Do you have any ideas?" she asked.


    Hackett exhaled sharply, shaking his head. "There''s nothing I can do. Colt is not just any doctor-he''s a


    professor. I''m just starting my career; he doesn''t even know me. You need to figure something out fast, or


    once he gets here, it''ll be toote."


    Rosie nodded, but no solution came to mind.


    Seeing no way out, Hackett grabbed his medical box and hurried away. If Colt discovered he was involved in


    falsifying medical records, his entire career would be at risk.


    It wasn''t worth it for something so trivial.


    "Hackett!" Rosie called, watching as he slid into his car. "Where do you think you''re going? You promised to help me!"


    Hackett lowered the window just enough to look at her, an apologetic look on his face. "Rosie, I can''t go up against someone like Colt. I won''t risk everything for this. You should find someone else to help you."


    From the passenger seat, he grabbed an envelope and gave it to Rosie-the same twenty thousand dors she had given him as payment.


    "I''ll double it!" Rosie tried to shove the envelope back through the window, but Hackett refused to take it. Without another word, he rolled up the window and drove off.


    Rosie clenched her fists in frustration. Time was running out, and she had no backup n. Furious, she muttered curses under her breath,


    Soon, Colt arrived. He was a distinguished schr, his hair streaked with gray. He looked dignified and gentle.


    Dalton personally opened the car door for him and greeted him with genuine respect. "Mr. Guzman, I really appreciate you taking the time toe," he said.


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    < Chapter 58 Miss Harper Has Never Undergone stic Surgery


    Colt offered a polite nod before stepping inside. He carried none of the arrogance one might expect from a man


    of his reputation


    Rosie, observing from a distance, frowned. He looked too in, too ordinary to be the renowned expert Hackett had feared. She scrutinized his every move, unimpressed.


    She settled into her seat, convinced that Brenna was moments away from humiliation. Even with Hackett no longer involved, she felt no concern. She would just insist that Brenna had definitely undergone stic surgery.


    Colt wasted n time. He assessed Brenna''s face with a keen eye, checking themon surgical points where


    incisions w


    lly made. After a brief but thorough examination, he dered, "Miss Harper has


    never


    undergone F


    rgery."


    Rosie''s jaw tightened in disbelief. She stepped forward desperately. "That can''t be right! No one looks that


    perfect naturally."


    Colt''s eyes settled on her. "I''ve been in this field for decades. I can detect surgical alterations immediately. For


    instance, I can tell that you''ve had your nose augmented, your eyelids enhanced, and your lip line adjusted.


    The work wasn''t done wlessly-there are still visible surgical marks."


    Brenna chuckled softly. "I also noticed that. I wonder if her full chest was also enhanced."


    Colt replied with a faint smile, "That''s simple enough to confirm. A quick check for incision scars beneath the arms would tell us everything."


    Rosie''s entire body tensed. Instinctively, she crossed her arms over her chest, running away embarrassed. She quickly went upstairs.


    She had spent years dissatisfied with her appearance, convinced her nose was too t, her breasts too small, her eyelids unappealing. Determined to perfect herself, she had traveled overseas for surgical enhancements. When she had returned, people had said she looked prettier, although they couldn''t exactly tell what had changed.


    She had been certain that no one could detect the work she had done.


    Yet, this old man had seen right through her in mere seconds. The humiliation was unbearable.


    Downstairs, Brenna called out teasingly, "Why the sudden rush to leave? stic surgery isn''t anything to be ashamed of, right?"


    After going upstairs, Rosie didn''t go back to her room. Instead, she stayed around the corner, eavesdropping.


    Colt turned his attention back to Brenna. "Your facial proportions are naturally well-bnced. There''s no need for surgery. In fact, altering anything could disrupt muscle coordination, leading to unnatural expressions as time passes.¡±


    Just then, the front door opened, and Ernst entered, apanied by Shepard, Giselle, Luther, Tessa, Ableson, and Jillian.


    Everyone greeted Colt warmly when they saw him.


    Luther knew Colt and asked, "What brings you here today?"


    Colt offered a casual smile. "Dalton asked for a favor, and since I was avable, I came here."


    1050


    Chapter 58 Miss Harper Has Never Undergone stic Surgery


    "Young people these days have no sense of propriety. How could you trouble an elder so easily like this? This is uneptable. Luther''s eyes narrowed as he turned toward Dalton.


    Colt replied, "It is nothing at all. Dalton is a rare gem in the entertainment industry. Three years ago, before his career took off, our hospital had a patient from a remote vige-a child in desperate need of multiple cleft lip and pte surgeries. The family couldn''t afford the treatments, and Dalton covered the expenses for the child.


    I admire him for that."


    < The Phantom Heiress: Rising From The Shadows

 Chapter 59

    Chapter 59 Do You Think We Are Foolish Like That


    After C


    The Harper family gathered on the sofa. Luther sat rigid, his face set in a grim expression His gaze driftedt ward the staircase, where Rosie stood frozen at the top. In a deep voice, he ordered, "Come here."


    Rosie''s pulse quickened. She hesitated for a brief moment before making her way down the stairs. Her eyes darted to Ernst, silently pleading for help.


    Ernst spoke up without hesitation. "Grandpa, just because Brenna hasn''t had cosmetic surgery doesn''t prove


    she''s rted to us That proves nothing. There are plenty of people in the world who resemble each other but


    are not rted by b.ood. We still need a DNA test to be sure."


    Rosie caught Ernst''s eye and gave him a discreet thumbs-up. If there was anyone who knew how to handle situations like this, it was him.


    Ernst turned to Brenna. "What do you


    think?"


    Brenna let out a sharp, humorlessugh. "How do you think I returned to your family? My information was in the missing persons database. They ran a DNAparison, and it was a match. That''s how your family found


    me."


    The room fell into an awkward silence.


    Ernst stared at Shepard, unable to believe what he had just heard. "Dad, is that true? Did you upload the DNA


    information?"


    Shepard''s expression darkened. He had kept that detail to himself as he wanted to see how his children tek about Brenna before revealing it.


    With a curt nod, he said, "Yeah. Do you think we''d be so careless as to ept her just because she looks like your mother? Do you think we are foolish like that?"


    Ernst and Rosie both looked unsettled, and Rosie was especially unwilling to ept this. She said, "What if there''s a mistake? What if she stole your information and faked the DNA report? It''s better to verify it again."


    She locked her gaze onto Brenna and contemptuously said, "I don''t trust you. Unless I personally choose the testing agency and deliver the samples myself... Brenna, you wouldn''t object to this, right?"


    Brenna knew Rosie wouldn''t back down until confronted with undeniable proof.


    She met Rosie''s gaze and saw that thetter wasn''t even trying to hide the hostility in her eyes anymore. Rosie clearly didn''t care how the family saw her anymore.


    Dalton had had enough of this. "What''s the point of another test, Rosie? I think you just don''t want my sister back. Isn''t her return a good thing? Why are you always looking for reasons to make things difficult for her?"


    002


    He hadn''t forgotten how Rosie had thrown a fit earlier over the gifts. It didn''t make sense. Why did she dislike Brenna so much?


    His sharp gaze pinned Rosie in ce, making her shift ufortably.


    "I''m ju looking out for our family!" Rosie reasoned. "I''m doing this for all of us. Our family has a lot of assets; how can we not be careful? People have lied about less..."


    Everyone looked displeased. Their expressions made it clear they didn''t agree with Rosie. Even Luther and Tessa shoe their heads in disappointment. Now that Colt had confirmed Brenna hadn''t undergone stic surgery, F I threw baseless usations at Brenna? It was obvious now. She simply dislike Brenna.


    Tessa sighed. She had an idea why this was happening. Brenna''s return had shifted the family''s attention,


    leaving Rosie feeling cast aside.


    Still, she couldn''t me the girl entirely. Losing her parents at such a young age must have left insecurities in


    her heart.


    "Rosie, stop," Tessa said gently. "I know you mean well, but you don''t have to worry. Brenna''s return won''t


    change how much we love you."


    When Rosie heard that, her tears spilled over. She sank onto the sofa beside Tessa and sobbed, "But Grandma...


    Uncle Shepard and Aunt Giselle won''t let me call them Mom and Dad anymore...¡±


    She buried her face in her hands. Yet, through her tears, she stole a nce at Shepard and Giselle. Neither of


    them reacted. Their silence made it painfully clear they weren''t going to change their decision.


    Rosie''s heart sank even more. In her mind, she believed this was all Brenna''s fault.


    If Brenna had not returned, she would still have people she could call her parents. But now, everything had changed. Brenna had taken everything from her.


    Tessa gently patted Rosie''s back. "Sweetheart, you still have Grandpa and Grandma, don''t you? Even if you have to call them Uncle Shepard and Aunt Giselle now, that doesn''t mean their love for you has changed."


    "That''s right," Shepard said. "Nothing about how we''ve treated you before will change."


    He knew exactly why Rosie was acting this way. In her heart, she believed Brenna had stolen the affection that had once belonged to her. That was why she wasshing out.


    Giselle said, "Now, you have a new family member who will look out for you. Whatever she has, you''ll have, too. So don''t be sad, okay?"


    Rosie lowered her gaze and nodded reluctantly. "But I still want Brenna to take another DNA test. If the results confirm she''s really a member of our family, I''ll apologize to her and follow through with the bet."


    Ernst nodded. "Yes, I support Rosie in this."


    He nced at Brenna, who remained unshaken, as if she were merely watching a show unfold. In all honesty, he couldn''t stand her unbothered demeanor. She acted as if everything was under her control. It wasn''t justposure. It was the kind of self-assurance that only people in power possessed. From the moment she stepped into their lives, Brenna did not seem like someone simply searching for lost family and their affection. He believed maybe she was after the entire Harper family''s assets.


    < The Phantom Heiress Rising From

 Chapter 60

    Chapter 60 Moving Out


    Dalte couldn''t help but notice how Brenna seemed entirely indifferent to the entire process of verification and its result puzzled him deeply.


    He fell e


    rense of sympathy for her, a wave of sadness washing over him as he thought about her situation Aft just returning, she now found herself forced to prove who she was under such intense scrutiny. Who wouldn''t feel hurt being treated like that?


    Her resilience was notable, anyone less strong might not havested in such an environment.


    In a moment of frustration, Dalton approached Ernst and said, ¡°Ernst, this is going overboard. Rosie may be your cousin, but Brenna is your biological sister. How can you question your sister like this? I witnessed the


    DNA test our parents conducted. It was urate, no need for a redo. Plus, a well-known site wouldn''t offer such services if they weren''t legitimate."


    Ernst seemed irked, barely paying attention. "Stop rambling, Dalton. There''s no harm in being cautious. A second test is harmless. Brenna, you don''t mind, do you?"


    With aforting squeeze on Dalton''s arm, Brenna reassured him with a smile, indicating that she was perfectly fine with it.


    It doesn''t bother me. We''ve already agreed to the bet. As long as you''re ready to face the possibility of losing, I''m in," Brenna said boldly, locking eyes with Ernst without fear.


    As Luther watched the scene unfold, he felt conflicted. His grandchildren were each as stubborn as the next. Ernst, in particr, stood out with his usual overconfidence. He had sailed through life with little resistance and had never faced any real challenges.


    Luther interjected, "The deal is set, and I''ve had the secretariat announce it within thepany." He turned to Ernst. "Ernst, if Brenna truly belongs to the Harper family, you stand to lose it all. Brace yourself, for I will show no mercy when the timees."


    Ernst remained defiant and replied, "Grandfather, Brenna''s boldness is unlike anything I''ve seen. We''re already at the point of conducting a DNA test, yet she''s not backing down. If she truly does not belong to the Harper family, then I''ll not let her off easily."


    With an air of arrogance, Rosie shared a nce with Ernst before walking over to Brenna. Without any hesitation, she reached out and pulled a few hairs from Brenna''s head.


    Brenna winced from the unexpected pain. "What are you doing?"


    Rosie, holding the hair strands with a sneer, replied, "I am getting your hair for the test, obviously."


    "You could''ve been more gentle," Brenna said as she ran her fingers over her scalp. Then, she looked at the strands of hair Rosie had pulled out, noting the color and the length.


    Rosie ignored her and walked towards Shepard. "Uncle Shepard, I need a few of your hair strands, too. Just five


    should be enough."


    Though clearly displeased, Shepard reluctantly pulled out a few hairs and handed them to Rosie.


    Rosie, struggling to hide her delight, was quietly plotting something deceitful. She intended to switch the hair samples to ensure the test results to show Brenna did not belong to the family.


    With a mocking gesture, she waved the hair samples in front of Brenna. ¡°I''m sending these straight to the top forensicb at Shirie''s," she said, her tone deliberately provocative.


    As the


    belonging


    ght of dawn filled the sky the next day, Brenna observed the servants working quickly to move


    in the fifth floor.


    She stopped julia, puzzled. ¡°What''s all thismotion about? Who''s moving out?"


    "It''s Mr. Ableson Harper and his family. They''ve been thinking about living more independently for a while now. The children are all adults now, and Mr. Harper is in good health. With your return, things are getting a bit cramped, so it''s time for them to have a ce of their own," Julia replied.


    Continuing her tasks, Julia disappeared downstairs with a box.


    As Brenna made her way down the stairs, she saw her uncle stepping out of the elevator. Intrigued, she walked over to him and said, "Uncle Ableson, why are you moving out?"


    She couldn''t shake the thought that she might have unintentionally upse


    moving out now.


    Ableson invited her to sit beside him on the couch. "Let''s have a chat."


    Brenna sat down and asked, "Uncle, have I done something to upset you?"


    him, and that was why he was


    Laughing warmly, Ableson reassured her, "Oh, not at all! You''ve been nothing but delightful."


    He then gently rolled up his trousers, revealing his prosthetic leg, a sight Brenna hadn''t witnessed since her


    return.


    Before returning, she had heard he was bedridden, but upon arrival, she had found him healthy and mobile, not paralyzed at all.


    "This... Uncle Ableson..." Stunned, Brenna struggled for words.


    Ableson rolled down the fabric and said, "Your father insisted I stay here out of concern for my well-being, afraid I wouldn''t get proper care anywhere else. But my wife has been a strong support, making sure I have everything I need. We''ve found a property on the outskirts that''s already set up to suit our needs. It''s time for us to have our own space, especially now that all of my children have grown up. That''s why we''ve decided to move."

 Chapter 61

    Chapter 61 Stealing The Blueprints


    At her b window, Rosie watched with a sardonic smile as Brenna stepped into Dalton''s sleek car.


    With a derisive chuckle, she taunted under her breath, "Thinking you''re someone special because you have a


    celebrity brother, Brenna? Dalton has just returned, and you''re already clinging to him. Do you want the whole


    world to know that he has such a in sister like you? How shameless!"


    Rosie stayed by the window, her eyes following the sports car until it disappeared from view. Then, she turned


    to leave.


    When she opened her door and stepped out, Rosie glimpsed into Brenna''s room, left open. Inside, Julia was


    efficiently cleaning, swiftly turning the disorderly room into a space as immacte as a luxury hotel suite.


    Everyone knew Brenna had once been relegated to the smallest room at the Barrett estate, her living conditions


    not much better than those of a storeroom in the attic.


    Rosie couldn''t help but think how unsuitable it was for Brenna to reside in the opulent Harper home. The thought reinforced her belief that Brenna really didn''t belong here.


    After finishing up, Julia stepped out of Brenna''s room, offering Rosie a courteous nod.


    Pointing to the waste bin near her door, Rosie instructed, "Take this out, too." Julia dutifully carried away the trash.


    Rosie lingered by the door, pretending to be upied with her phone, keeping an eye on Julia until she rounded the stairwell corner. With Julia''s footsteps echoing downstairs, Rosie stealthily checked Giselle''s room and found she was not here. Then, she tiptoed into Brenna''s room.


    On Brenna''s desk, a top-of-the-line, brand-newptop stood. It was worth hundreds of thousands, exactly like hers but in another color.


    She confidently pressed the power button, and in mere seconds, the login screen awaited her input.


    Rosie''s brow furrowed, and she muttered irritably, "It needs a password?"


    After a moment''s thought, she tried the date Brenna had returned to the family as the password, and her face lit up as theputer unlocked.


    With a self-satisfied grin, she muttered, "So predictable, using your return date as your password."


    Rosie pondered the significance of that day to Brenna. Brenna must have thought that day was important because she had returned to a wealthy family. Confirming her suspicion that Brenna had a fixation with money, Rosie began exploring the desktop folders, quickly homing in on one marked "Competition Designs".


    Chapter 61 Stealing The Blueprints


    Her pulse quickened as she opened it to discover sketches of car exteriors and advanced control systems. While not well versed in automotive design, she just knew that these were for cars.


    She browsed through more files, all rted toponent designs. Although unable to judge their quality, she


    knew people who could.


    She was:d no time connecting her USB drive to download the files.


    Once a copied everything, she ejected the USB, powered down theputer, and exited the room.


    Just al


    departure, Ernst descended the stairs, pausing at thending to ensure he was alone before slipping into Brenna''s room. After a thorough search of her bed, he found several strands of hair.


    He produced a clear ziplock bag from his pocket and secured the hairs inside.


    Seizing the opportunity of an empty house, he also gathered a few hairs from his parents'' bed, storing them in


    another bag.


    Having secured what he needed, Ernst left the house without having breakfast.


    In a caf¨¦.


    Rosie sat opposite a sharply dressed woman in her thirties, wearing ck-framed sses. The woman was holding a pristine luxury bag, still tagged. Her eyes gleamed, evidently appraising the bag''s potential market value.


    The value could easily climb into the thousands, perhaps equaling a few months of her ie.


    Rosie slid herptop across the table to the woman.


    She said, "Kennedi, check out this car design I''ve got here."


    Reluctantly, Kennedi Myers put down the bag and started to go through the files Rosie had opened, which disyed numerous detailedponent designs, each one sophisticated and almost wless.


    A look of admiration briefly crossed her face, yet her curiosity shone through. Kennedi was aware that Rosie''s background was in finance, not design. "These are quite remarkable, truly first-rate. Ms. Harper, did you create these yourself?" she asked.


    A flicker of annoyance passed through Rosie''s eyes. She hadn''t anticipated Kennedi''s high praise of Brenna''s work. A surge of jealousy washed over her; she couldn''t ept Brenna''s potential talent.


    "Just assess them," Rosie said coldly. "What I want to know is how they would stand in ourpany''s uing designpetition."


    Kennedi, who had been a pivotal designer at Harper Automotive for many years and had worked on various new models, often offered Rosie ttering remarks during their business interactions.


    After a moment of thought, Kennedi answered, "Even considering the stiffpetition from both domestic and international teams this time, these designs are definitely top-tier. They would likely be ranked in the top three, at the very least."

 Chapter 62

    Chapter 62 Falling Into A Trap


    Having kn Rosie for years, Kennedi was well aware of her background. Rosie, a finance graduate, had risen to a senior managerial role within apany under the Harper Group. Known for her beauty and brains, she was highly regarded by the Harper family for her substantial contributions to their business endeavors.


    But that didn''t mean Rosie could do everything. For instance, the highly sophisticated design drafts in front of her-Kennedi was certain that Rosie couldn''t have created them.


    The designs were revolutionary, integrating state-of-the-art technology and smart systems, redefining standards in car manufacturing. Its luxurious interior was matched by a sleek, aerodynamic exterior that was as stylish as


    it was functional, minimizing wind resistance while in motion.


    Rosie,cking a background in this area, would unlikely be the brain behind such sophisticated designs. Despite


    her vast experience in the auto industry, Kennedi knew it would be a challenge even for people experienced in


    the field to aplish such a feat.


    Kennedi found the intricate dynamics of high society to be quite puzzling. While she could only guess at the


    thoughts of such a wealthy and beautiful woman like Rosie, she knew better than to meddle in the private lives


    of the elite.


    Choosing not to question the origin of the designs, Kennedi decided to praise the design with enthusiasm,


    emphasizing its innovative features such as energy efficiency, environmental friendliness, and the smart


    integration of systems.


    At first, Rosie smiled in response to the praise, but as Kennedi''spliments grew more extravagant, she was


    starting to feel displeased.


    Doubt crept into Rosie''s mind as she couldn''t believe that Brenna, whom she deemed very useless, could have crafted such impressive design drafts. She believed Brenna must have copied someone else''s work.


    ¡°Kennedi, take a closer look. Could these designs possibly belong to another brand?" Rosie asked, her curiosity evident in her voice.


    Caught off-guard by the Rosie''s suggestion, Kennedi replied, "Ms. Harper, in our industry, product designs are heavily guarded secrets. Firms not only prevent leaks but also incorporate secure ess controls in car systems, charging customers for them to use. It''s umon for designs to be shared publicly."


    Rosie grasped the information. "So, are you saying you''re unsure if these designs are original?" she asked.


    Kennedi nodded in agreement. "Exactly, but I won''t leave you wondering. I''ll consult my mentor, a professor at Laguna Bay University and a veteran designer. He is familiar with numerous designs and will definitely have the answer to your question."


    Appreciative, Rosie nodded. "Alright. Ask him about this for me."


    Eager to verify, Kennedi asked Rosie, "Could I snap a picture to show him? I assure you, I''ll handle the matter discreetly


    After a moment of thought, Rosie agreed, trusting that Kennedi wouldn''t dare do anything to displease her.


    snapped a photo of the designs and immediately forwarded them to her mentor.


    with r inutes, her mentor responded. After thanking him, Kennedi toned to Rosie and said, "Ms. Harper,


    my ment recognizes this as the blueprints for the TS King model."


    A shadow ed Rosie''s face as her temper red. She had intended to present these designs to thepetition ja lees herself. Fortunately, she had been cautious and asked for confirmation, wondering how


    Brenna had managed toplete the entire set of designs so quickly.


    Kennedi''s enthusiastic praise of the designs only fueled her jealousy, and deep down, she had secretly wished


    it hadn''t been Brenna''s work.


    Her memory clicked into ce as she remembered the file had been clearlybeled forpetition use.


    A suspicion crossed her mind. Could Brenna have anticipated she would try to steal the designs and set a trap


    for her to fall into?


    The audacity of setting such a trap was infuriating. If she had gone ahead using the designs without verifying,


    she could have been used of giarism.


    How could Brenna be so devious?


    With resolve, Rosie''s face hardened into a determined expression as she began to n her next move.


    She was determined to ensure that Brenna would regret using any deceitful tactics against her.


    Clearing her thoughts, Rosie turned back to reality. "Kennedi, could you connect me with some top-tier car


    designers?" she asked.


    Kennedi responded, "Certainly, I''m part of awork with some globally recognized designers. I''ll share their


    details with you."


    As Rosie scanned through the contacts, none of the names seemed familiar. The world of automotive design


    felt like a mystery to her. She only knew some well-known names of established car manufacturers.


    "Thank you for your help today." Rosie expressed her gratitude to Kennedi, shifting the conversation to some


    insider details about Harper Group''s automotive ventures.


    Kennedi briefly mentioned an ongoing initiative. "The Harper Group is using this design contest to draw in top


    engineers for their luxury smart car project. They''re offering highly profitable


    contracts to attract the best talent globally, with sries starting at two million dors annually, plus year-end bonuses. Thepetition is already intense, with numerous entrantspeting for the top position."

 Chapter 63

    Chapter 63 What Were You Doing So Secretly In My...


    Rosie had a realization. Brenna had been wary of her intentions from the start. It was unlikely that the newptop held anypetition drafts.


    Could Brenna''s extensive design portfolio really be stored on that bulkyptop?


    Uncertain, Rosie decided she needed to verify this by checking Brenna''s bulkyptop at home. She intended to transfer all the design drafts onto her own device for a thorough reviewter.


    She hurried back home. When she arrived, Rachael was in the kitchen, managing the day''s meals.


    Rosie paused at the kitchen entrance to nce at Rachael, then continued upstairs.


    Rachael instructed the cooks, "Make sure the meals are easy to chew for Luther and Tessa. They are getting old."


    The kitchen staff nodded their understanding.


    Rachael picked up a te of freshly sliced fruits and headed to the third floor, entering Rosie''s room with it.


    "Ms. Harper, wee back. What would you like for lunch? I can have it made for you," Rachael said, handing the te to Rosie.


    The te was adorned with cherries and blueberries. Rosie gracefully selected a cherry, nibbled on it, and then said, "Anything will do. Has Brennae back yet?"


    Rachael paused to think, then answered, "No, she hasn''t. I have been here all morning and didn''t see her return. I recall she left earlier with Mr. Dalton Harper for an art exhibition. He mentioned they wouldn''t be returning for lunch, so there was no need to prepare anything for them. Is there something you need?"


    Rosie''s eyes lit up briefly. They weren''t returning for lunch? That suited her ns perfectly.


    It wasmon for the Harper family to leave in the morning and not return until the evening.


    With a slight smile, Rosie said, "Nothing. Please, continue with your tasks."


    Rachael nodded and excused herself.


    Rosie, now alone and holding some cherries, sauntered across the third floor, peeking into rooms and finding no one around.


    Confident that she was alone, she entered Brenna''s room. After ensuring both the bedroom and bathroom were empty, she settled at the desk and powered up theptop again.


    She noticed that theputer only had a handful of design-rted folders on the desktop, with nothing else saved.


    0.0%


    23.18


    < Chapter 63 What Were You Doing So Secretly In My Room


    She connected a USB drive and swiftly copied the files. She was eager to delve into the contents and their


    purpose.


    should these files turn out not to be Brenna''s designs, suspicions of draft theft might arise against Brenna.


    The USB''s transfer seemed to carry on forever for Rosie, her nerves on edge as she feared Brenna''s return, constantly casting anxious nces toward the door.


    But she had locked the door, so even if Brenna returned, she wouldn''t be able to get in immediately.


    just then, the walk-in closet''s door creaked open, and Brenna, moving as quietly as a shadow, silently appeared behind Rosie, watching as her design drafts were copied onto the USB.


    These designs, however, were merely decoys from past contests, set deliberately by Brenna to trap Rosie.


    Thirty secondster, the files were fully copied. Rosie let out a sigh of relief, removed the USB, shut down theputer, and stood up to leave.


    "Ah-"


    Rosie spun around,ing face-to-face with Brenna. Startled, she dropped the USB, her face mirroring the shock of encountering a ghost.


    "What were you doing on myptop?" Brenna asked as she bent down to grab the USB. "What did you take?"


    Frozen with fear, Rosie recalled her earlier room check; Brenna hadn''t been there. "Where did youe from?


    When did you get back?" she asked.


    She snatched the USB back from Brenna, clutching it as she pondered her next


    move.


    Brenna smiled faintly, standing in her path to block her escape.


    She said, "This is my room; do I have to inform you when Ie back to my


    room? But you, what were you doing so secretly in my room?"


    Rosie''s gaze darted to the now-open door of the walk-in closet. "Were you hiding in there earlier?" she asked.


    She realized her oversight; she had inspected every other room but missed the walk-in closet.


    Brenna confirmed with a nod. "Indeed, I was. Now tell me, what were you really up to in here?" she said.


    Rosie noticed the confusion on Brenna''s face, and she believed Brenna was likely unaware of what she had done. "Oh, it''s nothing important. I was just checking if you were around. The cherries are quite delicious, and I thought I''d bring some for you."


    She extended a cherry towards Brenna. ¡°Here, taste this."


    Brenna eyed the USB still in Rosie''s hand, then abruptly seized Rosie''s wrist.


    The grip was crushing, pain radiating through Rosie''s arm. She cried out, "What are you doing? Stop, you''re hurting met


    Her expression twisted in pain as Brenna''s grip tightened.


    Rosie felt as though her bones were shattering, with the faint sound of them breaking in her ears. She had no choice but to let go of the USB.


    451%


    23.18


    The USB hit the floor with a sharp snap.


    100.0%

 Chapter 64

    Chapter 64 It Really Hurts


    "Brenna, are you ready?" Dalton knocked gently on the door before he eased it open and stepped in


    Rosie clutched her wrist, her face twisted in agony as tears cascaded down her cheeks. Pointing an angry finger at Brenna, she said, "Dalton, Brenna has been bullying me!"


    She held out her wrist toward Dalton. "Look! My wrist is broken-hurts like hell. Brenna just tried to straight-up kill me!" she eximed, exaggerating


    Dalton''s face hardened, his expression turning cold as he scrutinized Rosie''s wrist. "It looks fine to me," he said.


    Rosie was taken aback. Dalton had always been her guardian angel, fussing even over the tiniest nick. Yet now, despite her wrist being swollen and ostensibly fractured, he dismissed it as nothing


    "Dalton, my wrist is broken. Brenna twisted it. Can''t you see the damage?" she said.


    The pain was undeniable-sharp and biting, freezing her movements with fear. She wasn''t being melodramatic she truly believed her wrist was broken.


    Meanwhile, Brenna stood nearby, her arms folded, observing Rosie''s dramatic disy with a cool detachment. "Dalton, I didn''t harm her. She pilfered my things, and when I caught her red-handed, she concocted this story to deflect me," she said.


    She extended a USB drive towards Dalton. "Here, see for yourself. It''s crammed with my design files that she has copied."


    The USB drive, equipped with dual connectors, could be seamlessly plugged into a phone.


    Dalton''s brow furrowed as he epted the USB and connected it to his phone without a second''s dy.


    In a fit of desperation, Rosie lunged to reim the USB, but even the slightest movement sent ance of pain shooting through her wrist. Sobbing, she eximed, "Dalton, my wrist is broken, and you''re just standing there, letting her nder me?"


    Dalton nced up and gave her wrist a careful examination, even drawing it nearer for a closer look


    "Ah!" Rosie winced. "It hurts so much!*


    Tears streaked her face as she whimpered, "Don''t touch it. My wrist is broken, Dalton. It really hurts


    Dalton let out a cold chuckle. "Rosie, enough with the theatrics. There''s not even a hint of redness now. How could it still be hurting?"


    Without missing a beat, he took her wrist and turned it slightly, his brows lifting when he found nothing wrong


    "Ah!" Rosie''s scream echoed as she copsed to the floor, tears pouring down her face


    Themotion drew the attention of the household staff, with Rachael and Julia being the first to arrive


    Rachael immediately pointed a finger at Brenna. "Miss Brenna Harper, how dare you bully Miss Rosie Harper like this? This is going overboard!" she eximed.


    Brenna responded calmly, "Did you actually see me bully her? Dalton is here too- why didn''t you use him of bullying her?"


    Rachael scoffed as she helped Rosie to her feet, her voice dripping with disdain as she said, "Mr. Dalton Harper


    has cherished Miss Rosie Harper since childhood. How could he ever bully her? It must be you who bullied her!"


    Rosie, overwhelmed by pain so severe that she could barely stand, leaned heavily on Rachael, her eyes burning


    with animosity towards Brenna. The absence of visible marks on her wrist baffled her, she could clearly feel the


    severe pain.


    She shouted, "Brenna''s trying to kill me! I''ll tell Grandpa and Grandma!"


    She pushed at Rachael. "Go and call my grandparents over. I refuse to believe no one could see how badly I''m


    hurt."


    Dalton''s patience was wearing thin. Before his return, Rosie had filled the family group chat with negative tales


    about Brenna, turning everyone against her.


    Now, back home, he witnessed firsthand how Rosie consistently targeted


    Brenna-and now she was even using Brenna of wanting to kill her.


    He raised his voice at Rosie. "Enough! Your wrist looks perfectly fine-it''s not even red. What exactly do you


    want?"


    He turned to Julia. "Aren''t you a nurse? You''ve worked in the ER before. Examine her wrist now."


    Julia stepped in, taking a careful look at Rosie''s wrist. The skin was smooth, the bones intact no swelling, no


    fractures, not even a hint of a sprain.


    She said, "Mr. Dalton Harper, Miss Rosie Harper''s wrist shows no signs of injury." Rosie shouted, "That''s impossible! I''m in agony! You are lying!"


    Brenna responded with a shrug, her tone indifferent, "Who can say whether you''re faking it or not? Let''s go to the hospital and get your wrist checked out."


    She looked at Dalton, seeking his opinion.


    Dalton nced down at his phone.


    The files had loaded, revealing rows upon rows of folders filled with intricate designs of car exteriors and parts.


    Brenna exined, her voice steady, "These are my award-winning designs from internationalpetitions over thest five years-they are for cars, helicopters, and ferries."


    Rosie''splexion turned a guilty shade of red, her expression shifting uneasily. "That''s impossible! These designs are cutting-edge. How could you possibly have such skill? You''re lying! You must have stolen these designs from other people just to show off!"


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 Chapter 65

    Chapter 65 Young And Talented


    Rosie''s fury was evident as her face twisted. She said, "Brenna, stop pretending. I''ve already looked into it. To


    achieve this level of design skill, you''d need at least twenty years of experience. Even if your diploma is real,


    how long have you actually been working? How much design experience do you really have? With your


    background, you probably haven''t even worked on any significant projects, let alone design so many products on your own. It''s simply impossible."


    Brenna understood that Rosie''s outburst was fueled by envy and the perceived loss of her parents'' affection.


    She recognized there was no changing Rosie''s bitter and narrow-minded attitude.


    She said, "Believe what you want, but I''m under no obligation to justify my credentials to you. You were caught red-handed trying to steal my work, and now, instead of showing any remorse, you are using me? This is out of line, Rosie."


    Her tone was stern as she warned Rosie, saying, "I''m not one to be trifled with. Just because I''ve just returned


    to the family doesn''t mean I can be bullied easily."


    The incident involving the wrist was merely a small lesson, a signal for Rosie to tread more carefully. Further provocations would lead to more than temporary pain.


    Rosie shot a re at Brenna. "When have I ever bullied you?"


    She thrust her wrist forward. "My wrist still hurts, and you''re using me of bullying you? Who''s the real bully here?"


    Dalton sighed audibly, showing his impatience with Rosie. He said, "Why can''t you ept that Brenna might just be both young and talented? Isn''t it a good thing that she''s so sessful? Why do you have such a problem with her? Can''t you two just get along?"


    Dalton''s frustration was evident; he couldn''t grasp the root of Rosie''s hostility towards Brenna.


    Rosie felt both wronged and upset. There was a time when Dalton''s full attention was on her. He would spoil her, take her out for fun, and give her whatever she wanted. But now, with Brenna back, Dalton took Brenna everywhere,vishing her with affection as if she were the only one who mattered.


    This was a painful adjustment for her.


    She eximed, "Dalton, you''ve never treated me like this before! Brenna is driving me insane, and you don''t care about me at all!"


    Dalton''s patience was wearing thin. "Brenna has just returned, so naturally, I''m spending more time with her. Why can''t you ept that instead of constantly trying topete with her over everything?" he said.


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    Chapter 65 Young And Talented


    Rosie couldn''t contain her frustration and raised her voice as she retorted, "Why shouldn''t Ipete with her? When you take her out, why not include me? Wouldn''t that be better for all of us?"


    In a moment of distress, she flung her arm, only to wince as pain shot through her wrist. She grimaced, clutching her wrist tightly.


    Observing her genuine difort, Dalton took her by the other hand. "Let''s get you to a hospital now."


    Rosie shot Brenna a look filled with anger.


    At the


    1, Rosie underwent a thorough examination-X-rays, CT scans, MRIS-all


    revealing no physical


    damage to her wrist.


    The doctor, observing theck of any physical injury, mused silently on the drama often brought on by the rich


    for minor or nonexistent injuries.


    Meanwhile, Brenna watched Rosie with an indifferent, almost amused look. "Cut the act. The tests show there''s


    nothing wrong. You can''t seriously still be iming to be in pain now, right?" she said.


    Rosie, however, maintained that her pain persisted, albeit diminished. She turned to the doctor, puzzled and


    upset. Why couldn''t the doctor see that she was indeed injured?


    "Do you have any idea what you''re doing? I want a different doctor!" Rosie shouted at the doctor, her anger boiling over.


    Dalton''s frustration reached a tipping point. "That''s enough! The tests are clear- no injuries, no fractures. How can you continue toin of pain?"


    *Feeling deeply aggrieved, Rosie red at Brenna and said, ¡°Something''s not right. How can the doctors find


    nothing wrong? Brenna, what have you done to me?"


    Dalton stepped in to


    protect Brenna, visibly annoyed. "You''re obviously fine. I''m taking Brenna to an art exhibit now. I don''t have time for this. You can go back on your own," he said.


    With a sly smile, Brenna waved at Rosie and left with Dalton.


    Yet Rosie was not ready to give up. She enlisted Rachael''s help to consult several more doctors, all of whom found no physical ailments, leaving them confused at her ims.


    Despite the doctors'' ims, the pain felt agonizingly real to Rosie.


    In the hospital corridor, Rosie tearfully left a voice message for Ernst. "Ernst, Brenna is bullying me. I merely essed herputer, and she hurt my wrist for it. Now, my wrist is in so much pain that I can barely move it. She refuses to apologize, iming I''m making a fuss over nothing. I found she has taken numerous advanced designs, possibly for thepetition. This isn''t how our family behaves. We can''t let her do something so reckless to embarrass our family."


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 Chapter 66

    Chapter 66 Don''t Let Rosie Manipte The Truth


    As night settled in, Dalton''s luxury sports car pulled into the driveway, its engine fading to a quiet hum as the vehicle came to a stop. The clock had already ticked past ten when he stepped out, ushering Brenna inside the house


    "Take those two paintings up to Brenna''s room," Dalton instructed the servants, nodding toward the trunk as he made his way toward the front door.


    The two paintings though modest in size, each held a unique charm. One depicted a rose bush in full bloom, its delicate petals seemingly alive with color, while the other portrayed a serene farmhouse courtyard. The imagery was rich with pastoral simplicity-a hen clucked softly, surrounded by her chicks, while the earth was dotted with sorghum. In the corner of the scene, a content cat rested, a chick perched serenely on its back, creating a moment of unexpected harmony.


    Julia and a servant carefully lifted the paintings, their movements careful as they followed Brenna toward the elevator.


    Julia''s gaze lingered on the artworks with a mixture of curiosity and mild confusion. To her, they were pleasant enough-soft withyered colors and bncedpositions-but she couldn''t quite grasp their deeper appeal. Why had Brenna chosen these particr pieces?


    As they entered the elevator, Julia turned to Brenna, her tone polite but tinged with curiosity. "Miss Harper, where would you like these paintings hung?


    Brenna nced at the paintings thoughtfully before answering, her tone calm and certain, "ce the rose painting above the living room sofa. The one with the hen should be ced above my desk."


    As Brenna and Dalton exited the elevator on the third floor, they immediately found themselves confronted by Ernst, standing at the end of the hallway. His stance was rigid, his arms crossed as his gaze hardened, focusing directly on them. He was wearing a dark expression.


    "Brenna, Ernst began, his voice firm but controlled, "I understand you have just returned and need care, attention, and affirmation. But you can''t achieve that at the expense of others."


    Brenna immediately detected the sharpness in his tone. It didn''t seem like he was making things difficult for her, but it was clear that he wasshing out on her for Rosie''s sake.


    His hands were tucked into his pockets, his broad shoulders were tense, and his dark brows furrowed deeply. His usuallyposed face was now etched with solemnity. He was clearly serious about what he was saying


    Dalton, too, sensed the underlying tension and stepped forward, his voice tinged with irritation. "What are you getting at, Ernst? What exactly did Brenna do wrong? Speak inly."


    The weight of Dalton''s words hung heavy in the room, thickening the already tense atmosphere. Sensing an


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    Chapter 66 Don''t Let Manipte The Truth


    impending argument, the servants silently slipped past them with the paintings, moving discreetly into Brenna''s room, avoiding getting caught in the brewing conflict.


    Just then, Roxie''s deer creaked open, and she emerged, her right wrist wrapped in thick bandages. She approached trest timidly, her steps hesitant, and positioned herself beside him, instinctively hiding behind him as though seeking protection. Her wide eyes darted toward Brenna, she looked like she was afraid of Brenna.


    Ernst, please, don''t be angry,'' Rosie said, her voice soft and almost apologetic. Her eyes flickered to Brenna, but she quickly turned away. "Looking back, I''m sure Brenna didn''t mean to hurt me. We should just forget matter. It''s really not a big deal if I''m a little upset. Brenna has juste back and has had such a before- maybe we should be more patient with her. We should amodate her andpensate


    ba


    bes more


    Rosor extended her bandaged wrist toward Ernst, the gesture calcted as though showcasing her vulnerability to elicit sympathy T''m fine, truly I understand Brenna''s need for attention," she continued, her voice sweet but edged with something else. "I realize I might have overlooked her feelings before, and I''m willing to let this matter slide..."


    Brenna watched Rosie, almost impressed by her calcted performance.


    Ernst''s gaze flicked to Rosie''s bandaged wrist, his expression hardening as he turned to Brenna. His voice was cold, deliberate, and carried a subtle weight of usation. "Injuring Rosie like this, even the doctors couldn''t detect her injury. I am truly impressed by your skills, Brenna. But let''s be clear about something. You have indeed just returned and have suffered a lot outside the family. But we owe you nothing. Don''t take your frustrations out on Rosie. You shouldn''t have used the Harper family''s wealth for your gain, and don''t think you can steal other people''s designs and get away with it. If this everes to light, you might be willing to let your reputation be ruined, but I can assure you, we won''t let you drag us down with you."


    Brenna''s lips curled into a cold smile, her tone dripping with disdain. "Who exactly told you all that nonsense? Just because someone spouts usations doesn''t mean you have to believe them. Have youpletely lost your ability to think and judge things for yourself?"


    Dalton stepped forward, his voice firm and unwavering as he defended Brenna. "Ernst, Brenna''s achievements speak for themselves. She has more awards than I can count-are you suggesting they''re just for show? The designs in question? They''re hers, all hers. Don''t listen to Rosie''s lies. She''s the one who snuck into Brenna''s room, cracked her password, and stole her work. Brenna caught her in the act, and I witnessed it. Don''t let Rosie manipte the truth."


    Rosie, clearly rattled, her voice trembling with a mix of anger and defensiveness, shot back, "Dalton, what are you even saying? How could I have stolen Brenna''s designs? I was simply worried that she might stray from the right path, so I checked on her work to ensure our family was not going to be embarrassed by her. After all, our family is one of the most prestigious families in Shirie. We can''t afford to have someone shameless among


    us."


    Brenna shook her head, a faint, incredulous smile tugging at her lips as she marveled at Rosie''s audacity.


    "Really?" she said, her voiceced with sarcasm. "You''re so concerned about me. Tell me, did you find anything worth your efforts?"


    Rosie, undeterred, stood her ground, her confidence unshaken. She was banking on Ernst to inspect Brenna''s designs personally.


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 Chapter 67

    Chapter 67 I Don''t Need Evidence To Prove This


    Brenna calm


    ved Rosie''s dramatic shift in behavior. Rosie had abandoned her usual fiery tantrums for a more subdued, victim-like performance today.


    Rosie''s intent was clear: she aimed to elicit Ernst''s sympathy.


    After her act, Rosie, hiding her true satisfaction, awaited Brenna''s anticipated defensive outburst with a sorrowful gaze.


    After a brief pause, Brenna asked, "Are you done talking?"


    Rosie was caught off guard. Instead of the expected frantic defense, Brenna remainedposed, which wasn''t what she had expected.


    Brenna said, ¡°Unless you can substantiate your ims of giarism or copying, I''ll be leaving now. I need to hang a couple of oil paintings I recently acquired in my room."


    Rosie was visibly flustered. Brenna demanding evidence was not part of her n; Brenna was supposed to be vehemently proving she was the person who had created those designs.


    How had the mattere to this?


    Weakly, Rosie turned to Ernst, saying, "Look at her, Ernst. She''s so arrogant, asking me for proof. Isn''t it evident? She''s so young-how could she possibly have such advanced design skills? I don''t need evidence to prove this."


    Ernst felt overwhelmed by Rosie''s habitual troublemaking, his head aching. However, his criticism was directed not at Rosie but at Brenna''s arrogance. He said, "Brenna, why so confrontational? Just provide the evidence if Rosie requests it. That would prove your talent and put this matter to rest, wouldn''t it?" Dalton''s temper red as he raised his voice. "Ernst, this isn''t just! Brenna shouldn''t have to prove that. I think you are deliberately making things difficult for her. The burden of proof should fall on the user. Otherwise, she will have to spend her time proving herself whenever someone questions her."


    He turned his sharp gaze towards Rosie. "You''re leveling baseless usations. If you have any proof, present it. Otherwise, cease your malicious attacks. If this continues, I''ll let Brenna sue you!"


    Brenna was touched by Dalton''s fervent defense. At least there were still quite a few people in this family who had her back.


    She observed Rosie, who appeared utterly disconcerted, struggling to articte a response. Rosie repeatedly opened and closed her mouth, yet words failed her.


    Dalton took Brenna by the wrist and confidently led her away, murmuring reassuringly, "Let''s see if they dare


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    Chapter 671 Don''t Need Evidence To Prove This


    to smear your name now. Do they think they can just trample over my sister without repercussions? I will always stand up for you!"


    Knowing Rosie could overhear, Brenna deliberately said, "From now on, Dalton, if


    I am facing any trouble, I will turn to you for your help."


    Rosie, not ready to concede,ined to Ernst, saying, "Ernst, aren''t you going to step in? Why does Dalton trust her so much? Did I do anything wrong? How could someone so young ke her possess such refined design skills? That is simply impossible!"


    Irritation cre


    of Brenna


    Ernst''s demeanor. Dalton, who had always deferred to him, now seemed estranged because


    Ernst then gave Rosie a disapproving nce, recognizing now that she was causing trouble on purpose. He


    couldn''t fathom her persistent hostility toward Brenna.


    He said to Rosie in a low voice, "There''s truth in their words. If you suspect something, gather evidence instead of making baseless ims."


    Rosie waved her arm in objection. "And what about the bruise on my wrist? Is Brenna simply free to bully me


    without consequence?"


    Ernst didn''t reply and just walked away. Rosie''s frustration boiled over, and she stamped her foot angrily. It


    seemed even Ernst was no longer on her side!


    Inside the room, two servants approached with durable hooks and pointed at a spot on the wall. "Mr. Dalton Harper, Miss Brenna Harper, would this location be suitable for the paintings?"


    The proposed spot sat nearly a meter beneath the ceiling.


    "Raise it a bit," Dalton instructed, measuring the space visually from the couch to ensure the height was


    appropriate.


    Julia shifted the hook up by ten centimeters and inquired, "Is this better?"


    "That''s it, the perfect height," Dalton replied.


    Once the paintings were securely hung, the servants left the room.


    Dalton and Brenna stood together, appreciating the artwork depicting a hen with her chicks.


    "Do you enjoy country life?" Dalton suddenly asked Brenna.


    "Yes," Brenna responded wistfully. "I dream of living in the countryside one day, like our grandparents. I''d tend a garden, keep chickens and ducks, and perhaps even have a cat and a dog.¡± Her voice was full of excitement as she described her ideal future, her face glowing with joy.


    "That sounds lovely, and you don''t have to wait, you know. One of my friends'' cat is expecting kittens soon. Would you like one?" Dalton said, his gaze tender. He admired not only Brenna''s beauty but her intelligence as well.


    "Absolutely," Brenna responded enthusiastically. She had longed for a cat back when she had been with the Barrett family, but Ruby had always objected the idea.

 Chapter 68

    Chapter 68 Waiting For The Results


    Shire''s Forensic identification Center was renowned nationally as a top-tier institution, burdened daily with a


    massive influx of challenging cases from across the nation that localbs struggled to resolve.


    Consequently, the facility seldom undertook private tasks for individuals.


    With the dawn barely breaking and the workday kicking off, the Harper family members were assembled in the lobby, congregating quietly in small groups.


    Today, Brenna chose a rxed outfit, donning light blue jeans and a crisp white t- shirt, her hair neatly tied up in a bun. Her youthful and energetic look, coupled with her inherent allure, captivated many people as soon as she entered.


    At a prominent location, the Harper men, dressed in sharp suits, stood protectively around Luther and Tessa. Rosie was affectionatelytched onto Luther''s arm, talking to him about something with a smile.


    Her right wrist remained bandaged, albeit less bulky than before. Next to Tessa was a young woman, around twenty, whose calm and poised presence reminded Brenna faintly of Jillian.


    Brenna immediately recognized her. She was Audrey, Jillian''s daughter, likely just returned from abroad. Brenna had seen her in the family photo before.


    Near Tessa, a young man with dyed hair stood out in his trendy attire. His tall frame, thick eyebrows, and distinct features wereplemented by his earrings, adding to his stylish appearance.


    He was Lennon, Jillian''s son.


    anc


    Brenna caught Audrey''s and Lennon''s curious stares. Both watched her intently, not intending to speak to her at all


    Rosie, noticing their aloofness toward Brenna, allowed a smirk to cross her face. She turned her head, pretending not to notice Brenna, curious if Brenna would feel awkward being ignored like this.


    The Harper family members'' gazes lingered on Brenna as though she were a stranger to them.


    As Brenna walked a few steps forward, she finally spotted her parents.


    They were engaged in a rxed discussion with the forensic center''s staff, exuding calm and assurance.


    "Brenna, you are here," said a soft voice beside Brenna.


    "Ethan?" Brenna voiced her surprise upon seeing Ethan. Today was a big day for


    both her and the Harper family -what was Ethan doing here?


    Driven by curiosity, she asked Ethan, "What brings you here?"


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    Chapter 68 Waiting For The Results


    Ethan responded smoothly. I''ve just arrived Someone called me and said there would be something interesting happening today, so I came here to check it out."


    As usual, Ethan was dressed in a sleek ck suit, maintaining is aloof demeanor. But he was gentle toward


    Brenna


    sie''s face changed immediately. Releasing Luther''s arm, she walked determinedly over and ced herself sategically between Ethan and Brenna, aiming to cut off their interaction


    She said, "Eth


    enna is not worth your time. It''s possible she isn''t even a real Harper. Without that lineage, she''s just in and ordinary. Why would someone like her deserve your attention?"


    She wore a smile as she gestured toward Audrey. "Look, Ableson''s daughter, my cousin, has returned. Considering the marriage agreement between our families, you should marry her. Maybe you should focus your


    attention on her."


    Ethan''s nce at Audrey was fleeting and disinterested. Then, he turned his attention away. She seemed like any other girl to him, sparking no interest. He believed Audrey knew Brenna was her cousin, and her failure to greet Brenna struck him as distinctly rude.


    Ignoring Rosie''s interference, Ethan stepped closer to Brenna, reassuring her with his words. "Don''t worry. You


    resemble your mother so closely, you must be a Harper. And even if it turns out you''re not, that wouldn''t


    change our friendship," he said gently.


    Brenna gave Rosie a faint smile, her eyebrows arching challengingly.


    "You''re just here to enjoy the spectacle, aren''t you?" Brenna said to Ethan.


    At that moment, Tessa joined them, apanied by Audrey and Lennon. She brushed Rosie aside and grasped


    Brenna''s hand, expressing her concern. "We couldn''t find you earlier today. Where were you?" she said.


    Audrey and Lennon knew Ethan was always polite to others. Noticing Ethan''s apparent disregard for Rosie, they quickly deduced that Rosie''s harsh remarks about Brenna in the group chat before might have be


    exaggerated.


    To them, Brenna appeared amiable and beautiful, far from the arrogant person Rosie had portrayed.


    Almost simultaneously, they greeted Brenna warmly.


    Audrey stepped forward, nudging Ethan slightly away to introduce herself, saying, "I''m Audrey. You''ve probably heard about me before. Brenna, you are truly as beautiful as Aunt Giselle described."


    Lennon then introduced himself, saying to Brenna, "I''m Lennon, just returned to the country yesterday. Feel free toe by our ce whenever you like!"


    At that moment, a staff member from the identification center approached Shepard and Giselle with a stack of reports, talking to them respectfully, "Mr. and Mrs. Harper, the results are in."


    Rosie quickly made her way to the front, her face a mix of eagerness and certainty, as she inquired, "Do the results confirm that there is no biological father-daughter rtionship between Brenna and Shepard?"

 Chapter 69

    Chapter 69 Brenna Isn''t A The Harper


    Rosie''s voice echoed through the hall, capturing the attention of nearly everyone present.


    The crowd had gathered primarily to witness the unfolding drama, with many unable to suppress their chuckles, curious about Brenna''s next move should it turn out she wasn''t a true Harper,


    What would be of Shepard''s and Giselle''s recent actions? Rumor had it that the couple had already embraced Brenna as their own,vishing her with presents and even a house. The potential revtion of Brenna not being their biological daughter could lead to quite an embarrassing situation.


    The tension in the room escted.


    Several rtives close to Brenna shot Rosie disapproving res. They believed even if Rosie felt that way, she


    shouldn''t have said it out loud.


    Shepard, Giselle, and Dalton were visibly the most displeased.


    In a moment of frankness, Dalton confronted Rosie in front of the family, asking, "What are you implying, Rosie?


    Do you wish Brenna wasn''t a part of our family?"


    Only then did Rosieprehend the gravity of her words. Though she acknowledged her impulsiveness, she remained defiant, standing her ground. "That''s not my intention. Despite my feelings toward her, Uncle


    Shepard and Aunt Giselle hold her dear. I wouldn''t wish to see their hearts break. However, Brenna''s deceitful plots against our family cannot be ignored, and I refuse to stand by and let someone like her join our fam.


    Dalton, unable to hide his skepticism any longer, said directly, ¡°You seem quite confident. Have you tampered. with the samples?"


    Panic flickered across Rosie''s face for a brief moment before she regained herposure. She was the only one


    aware of the fact that she had swapped Brenna''s hair samples with Rachael''s. Surely, no one else would know.


    that.


    "Would I really stoop to such deceit?" Rosie retorted. "Sure, Brenna bears a striking resemnce to Aunt Giselle, but their personalities are worlds apart. Brenna doesn''t embody the Harper spirit. I haven''t tampered with


    anything. The truth wille out on its own."


    Anticipation gnawed at her as she awaited the test results. Despite her confidence, a nagging doubt lingered. that something could still go wrong.


    Impatiently, she said to the staff members, "Just tell us the results now."


    Luther and Tessa moved closer, equally anxious about the revtions.


    Disappointment and coldness emanated from Shepard and Giselle as they looked at Rosie.


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    Chapter 60 Brenna Isnt A True Harper


    Meanwhile, Giselle reassured Brenna with a gentle squeeze of her hand, saying, "Don''t worry, my dear, I know you are my daughter."


    Rosie''s disdain bubbled over, and she couldn''t resist scoffing, Aunt Giselle, you''re being duped. Brenna''s a master maniptor. She wormed her way into our family for the money. If the tests show she''s not your daughter, she should repay every penny she has taken from the family. We can''t let her exploit our family like


    A colo


    ded in Giselle''s eyes, the affection she had once had for Rosie evaporating. She felt a profound aval, thinking of all the years she had cared for Rosie. Her biological daughter had returned, yet Rosie not only fail d to congratte her but also targeted her daughter repeatedly.


    sense c


    Rosie''s brimming overconfidence left everyone present wrestling with the suspicion that she might know something they didn''t.


    Luther stepped in, seeking to restore some peace. "Let''s all settle down and see what the results are," he said.


    With a nod, Rosie attempted to mask her arrogance. "Sure, Grandpa. Just remember not to get too upset when the results are revealed."


    At that moment, a staff member stepped forward with the test results, beginning with the first report. "Commissioned by Miss Rosie Harper, this test confirms that there is no biological link between Miss Brenna Harper and Mr. Shepard Harper." A triumphant glow appeared on Rosie''s face as she grasped the document, her voice dripping with superiority. "Listen everyone, Brenna isn''t a true Harper! Just as I suspected, she''s a fraud. She needs to return everything she has taken from our family immediately!"


    Murmurs spread through the assembled onlookers, many of whom turned to stare at Brenna.


    Caught off guard, Brenna tried to maintain herposure. She knew Rosie would stir up trouble for her, but she wasn''t entirely sure if Rosie had tampered with the samples.


    Proudly, Rosie unted the document to Shepard and Giselle. ¡°Look, Uncle Shepard, Aunt Giselle, this proves Brenna isn''t your daughter."


    The couple briefly examined the document before dismissing it and handing it back to Rosie.


    Observing their subdued reaction, Rosie said, "I understand this is shocking to you, but we must face the reality here."


    Meanwhile, Luther, his face a mask of neutrality, eyed the staff holding the remaining documents. "What about the other three tests? Let''s see the results of those as well."


    A sense of unease washed over Rosie as a thought struck her. Had others submitted samples for tests, too?


    "What other tests? What do you mean?" she asked.


    Shepard cleared his throat, his tone stern. "Your grandfather, Ernst, and I also provided samples for tests."


    A wave of panic washed over Rosie as she realized the gravity of the situation she might now face.


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 Chapter 70

    Chapter 70 Did You Tamper With The Test


    Anxiety surged through Rosie as the possibility of Brenna''s public eptance into the Harper family sank in, unsettling her deeply.


    Her dignity was hanging by a thread, yet she concealed her fears beneath a mask of calm. ¡°It''s just a bunch of tests. Clearly, they''re doubting your story; that''s why they wanted to do more tests. So don''t celebrate too soon, Brenna. There are still three results pending, and they might all show you don''t belong to the Harper family."


    She then gave a sharp, condescendingugh, challenging Brenna to respond.


    Fed up with Rosie''s attitude, Brenna retorted with a sharp-edged smile, "You seem awfully confident about this. Did you perhaps tamper with the results?"


    Suspicious ncesnded on Rosie, making her shift uneasily. She was especially unsettled by Luther''s


    judgmental gaze, intensified by his recent displeasure toward her.


    "If you tampered with the results, Rosie, you''ll face severe consequences," Luther warned in a firm voice.


    Burdened with guilt, Rosie attempted an innocent demeanor. "Grandpa, you know I wouldn''t do such a thing.


    I want Uncle Shepard''s real daughter to return as much as anyone, but we can''t simply ept anyone as family


    without proof," she said.


    She endeavored to dissociate herself from any me.


    Theb technician then presented the results for the remaining three tests, saying, "These results all confirm a


    biological father-daughter rtionship."


    Rosie''splexion drained of color as she gasped and said, "No way; how can this be!" Her eyes darted around


    the room, meeting the stern gazes of the Harper family members.


    She realized she was alone in her fight. Although they had tasked her with submitting the samples, they had evidently submitted their own in secret.


    It was clear to her-they didn''t trust her.


    Feeling betrayed, Rosie perceived her rtives as duplicitous, presenting a facade of affection while scheming behind her back.


    She confronted Ernst directly, saying, "Ernst, why did you submit a set of samples as well? Don''t you trust me?"


    Ernst looked back at her, his face etched with disappointment. He knew that the hair samples he had submitted confirmed Brenna as their father''s biological daughter, contrasting starkly with the samples Rosie had


    submitted.


    What could this discrepancy mean?


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    Chapter 70 Did You Tamper With The Test


    Ernst suspected Rosie had manipted the results, but given that she was his cousin and had endured the loss of her parents, he refrained from calling her out, choosing to preserve her dignity.


    "It''s not that Ick trust in you; it''s more about being prudent," he exined.


    Rosie ft a sting in her heart. This was clearly an indication of theirck of trust in her.


    Tears streed down her face uncontrobly.


    Luther, 1 xpression one of dismay, didn''t need further rification. He had already pieced together the


    four tests, three affirmed Brenna''s lineage, while only one contradicted it.


    events. O


    He let out a coldugh, opting not to confront Rosie about her actions.


    With a smile, Brenna stepped forward confidently and said, "I am a Harper. I''m the biological daughter of my parents. What do you want to say about that now, Rosie?"


    After a pause, she continued in a cold voice, "You were the one who took that sample directly from my hair. Why does it indicate I''m not a Harper? Did you tamper with the test?"


    Rosie, growing increasingly panicked, began to step back. "I didn''t tamper with anything! I didn''t! How could you use me of something like that? You shouldn''t make ims without proof!"


    Rosie felt the weight of judgmental stares from the people around her, signaling the copse of her meticulously crafted persona. Overwhelmed by the turn of events, she quickly left the scene, tears streaming


    down her face.


    Around Brenna, the extended Harper family members gathered, offering warm greetings. While she returned. their smiles, Brenna couldn''t forget the doubtful looks they had cast her way earlier and decided she wouldn''t get close to them.


    Just then, Ethan approached her, beaming. "Congrattions!"


    Outside, influencers invited by Rosie were poised to broadcast the event, aiming to tarnish Brenna''s image.


    One particrly bold influencer stopped Rosie when she tried to leave. What had happened earlier has been streaming live, watched by millions.


    Online viewers were now fully aware of Brenna''s story. Theyvished praise on her for her poise, beauty, and


    grace.


    "Miss Harper, now that you''re leaving, would you like to address the live audience?" the influencer asked Rosie.


    Only then did Rosie remember the live stream, realizing the gravity of her situation. With many cameras already broadcasting, she scrambled for a way to salvage her image.


    "There''s no need for that. My cousin''s return is a celebration, and I must organize a wee banquet for her, so I''ll leave now," she said.


    Despite her attempt at damage control, the viewers were not fooled. They vividly remembered Rosie confidently asserting earlier that Brenna was not a Harper, and now, her sudden change of attitude struck them as insincere.


    The live stream''s chat section erupted withments, openly criticizing Rosie for her two-faced behavior.


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    Chan 20 Taner th The Test


    Attempts by She and Vivian to manipte the online narrative with bots proved fitile against the overwhelming real viewer reactions

 Chapter 71

    Chapter 71 You Did That On Purpose


    Brenna looked


    Rosie with an icy stare as thetter uttered hollow, repugnant words, feeling a twist of difort within. Rosie had made a fuss for nothing; Brenna believed she must be feeling terrible now.


    After all, Rosie had done a lot for today.


    Brenna walked toward the cluster of journalists, her demeanor radiating poise and beauty-the very picture of


    refinement.


    Rosie caught sight of Brenna''s approach, and her heart skipped a beat, haunted by the fear that Brenna would


    air their dirtyundry for all to hear. That could spell disaster.


    With a strained smile, Rosie mustered faux warmth. "Congrattions, Brenna, on your official entry into the Harper family," she said.


    Brenna offered a slight smile, allowing the people around to capture her best angles. She replied with warmth


    to Rosie, "From this day forward, I am a Harper, all thanks to your relentless push for the family to verify my ties through DNA."


    "What are you implying, Brenna?" Rosie''s expression faltered slightly as she cursed Brenna inwardly.


    She hastily corrected Brenna, saying, "It wasn''t solely my initiative; it was a collective decision by the Harper


    family. We did this for the family, and for the public as well."


    "Rosie, stop being so modest. The test was your crusade, so credit where it''s due," Brenna responded


    feigned innocence, her tone gentle and sweet.


    The people around were all smart-they picked up on the subtext in Brenna''s words in an instant.


    A cherubic-faced female influencer inquired, "Miss Brenna Harper, is the Harper family nning a grand. wee back party in your honor?"


    A snazzily dressed male influencer asked, "And Miss Rosie Harper, since you''ve shown such consideration for Miss Brenna Harper, will you be extending invites to all the high flyers from Shirie to celebrate her return to the family?"


    Rosie bristled at the question. She had only casually mentioned a wee banquet earlier. She hadn''t expected them to take her words seriously.


    She forced a smile. "Yes, I will summon all the socialites and heirs of Shirie to the Harper residence to celebrate Brenna''s return," she said.


    Her fists clenched tightly, her nails digging into her palms, yet she felt no pain.


    She deeply regretted everything now. If she really gathered Shirie''s elite to wee Brenna''s return, she would


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    Chapter 71 You Did That On Purpose


    cement Brenna''s ce in high society, which was thest thing she wanted.


    No, even if she had to hold the banquet, she would have to find a way to humiliate Brenna at the banquet.


    Looking back, she realized she had been too careless-she had never expected the other Harper family members to submit their own test samples.


    She had


    Brenna off the hook too easily.


    Yet, it


    cote for regrets now.


    Still, she isn''t down and out. Brenna''s entry into the Harper family didn''t mean she could take Ethan away or snatch the family shares. The uing designpetition was her chance to tarnish Brenna''s image, ensuring the family disliked her.


    To mask her hostility, Rosie deftly linked arms with Brenna, keeping her close.


    Brenna yed along, her smile never wavering, presenting herself in the best possible light to the public.


    As the cousins departed from the DNA testing center, Rosie noted the absence of people trailing them. She angrily withdrew her arm and confronted Brenna, saying, "You did that on purpose, didn''t you? Isn''t being recognized as a Harper enough? Now you''re after the social standing, too..."


    She was on the verge of unleashing her fury when she spotted the Harper family and Ethan approaching.


    Swiftly, she masked her agitation with a genteel, caring facade, smiling as she approached Luther. "Grandpa, Grandma, since Brenna is officially one of us now, I think a wee banquet is in order. It would be the perfect way for her to truly immerse in high society and witness genuine refinement. You don''t object, do you?"


    Luther didn''t want to stir the pot, especially given Rosie''s orphaned state and emotional fragility. Seeing her willingness to embrace change, he still regarded her as the family''s cherished child.


    He said, "Alright, you take the reins on this one. We''ll stay out of it. It''s getting too chaotic here; we''re heading back to the countryside estate."


    Tessa nodded and said, "Yes, now that we''ve seen our granddaughter, it''s time to return and look after my chickens."


    Brenna walked over and sweetly said, "I''lle visit soon; I like the countryside life, too."


    Tessaughed heartily. "I know, dear. You mentioned buying that quaint oil painting of a hen with her chicks. When my hen has chicks of her own, I''ll invite you to see the real deal, Why settle for a painting?" she said.


    Brenna''sughter was light. "Promise you won''t forget that, Grandma."


    Ethan, having overheard their conversation, pondered silently. Did Brenna truly like living in the countryside?


    Maybe he should consider building a manor next to Luther''s for Brenna to use as a retreat?

 Chapter 72

    Chapter 72 I Made A Mistake


    Throughout une journey home, Rosie felt an unsettling knot in her stomach. She was haunted by the fear that Luther and Tessa would confront her, using her of being harsh and for turning against her cousin.


    Every second of the ride, the anxiety wed at her, but to her surprise, neither of them said a word about what had happened. It seemed they werepletely unaware of what had happened, and with that, Rosie


    allowed herself a brief moment of relief.


    As they entered the house, Rosie found sce in the fact that the extended Harper family members had left the


    Harper estate, and she hoped the matter had been buried.


    But the atmosphere shifted as Luther and Tessa stepped into the living room.


    They directed the servants to tidy up before settling onto the sofa, their expressions stern. Their sharp, unwavering gazes locked onto Rosie,


    making her shift ufortably under their intense scrutiny.


    Tessa broke the silence first, her voice firm as she said, "Rosie, we need the truth. That day, in front of the


    entire family, you took a few strands of Brenna''s hair and sent them to the DNA testing center. Tell us honestly


    -did you tamper with the samples?"


    Shepard, Giselle, Ernst, and Dalton sat on the adjacent sofa, their faces cold as they watched. None of them showed any inclination to defend Rosie, their silence speaking louder than words.


    Brenna sat beside Tessa, her hands resting gently in her grandmother''s. Tessa''s voice, filled with calm authority," was gentle when she tried tofort Brenna, saying, "Brenna, don''t be afraid. In this family, we know the importance of right and wrong. Whoever errs must face the consequences, no exceptions."


    A surge of warmth washed over Brenna at her words. Tessa, though not one to often express her emotions or share intimate conversations, had always made Brenna feel safe-never judging, always providing a sense of quiet support. Brenna always felt at ease with her by her side.


    Brenna nodded and said, "I trust you, Grandma. I know you will stand up for me."


    Tessa''s hand gently brushed Brenna''s hair, her eyes filled with tenderness. "You''re such a thoughtful young woman. Even when Rosie has wronged you, you''ve never onceined. You have always considered her


    circumstances-growing up without parents-and haven''t held it against her. You''ve been wronged, yet you''ve remained graceful."


    Rosie''s heart ached with bitterness, her eyes instantly filling with tears. Tessa had always been her staunchest supporter before, but now, that support seemed to have shifted to Brenna. Her heart ached with the sudden,


    painful sense of abandonment.


    With a quiver in her voice, Rosie looked at Tessa, her frustration spilling over. "Grandma, how can you say that I''ve wronged her? I''ve always been happy for Uncle Shepard and Aunt Giselle for finding their lost daughter.


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    23:20


    How could I possibly want to harm their daughter? I did not tamper with the samples at all! Brenna clearly doesn''t belong to our family!" she eximed. Tessa''s voice was sharp, cutting through the thick tension that filled the room. "Enough with the lies, Rosie. Your grandfather had the doctor secretly take Brenna''s blood, and your uncle Shepard did the same. Why did their samplese back fine, yet the ones you submitted are different? If you continue to hide the truth, I will have no choice but to kick you out of the house!"


    Rosic


    with


    eath caught in her throat as tears fell from her eyes. She turned her gaze to Ernst, silently pleading


    But Ernst, his expression colder than Rosie had ever seen, was resolutely silent. His gaze was heavy with disappointment; the warmth that had once radiated from him was now reced with an unyielding chill. His words then struck like a betrayal. ¡°Rosie, it''s time to face reality. I personally took a few strands of Brenna''s hair and sent them alongside my father''s for testing. The results were clear; Brenna is indeed my father''s biological daughter. If you admit your mistake now, I''m still willing to treat you like family. You''re still my


    cousin, and I''ll support you. But if you continue to lie, I can''t do that anymore."


    Rosie''s heart sank, a wave of desperation flooding over her.


    Even Ernst-her cousin, the one person she had always relied on-had turned against her. She couldn''t


    Anger and frustration surged within Rosie, a powerful mixture of betrayal and confusion. She couldn''t


    understand how things had changed sopletely like this.


    Observing the shift in Rosie''s expression, Luther knew exactly what she was thinking. His voice was firm,


    devoid of any sympathy, as he said, "If you refuse to take responsibility for your actions, you must leave. You


    have plenty of properties under your name-don''t think you can continue living in this house without


    admitting what you did."


    Rosie stood still, her mind caught in a whirlwind of conflicting thoughts. Moving out would mean losing everything no one would care for her anymore. Staying, however, came with a different kind of securit, She would have a home and thefort of Ernst''s love. Maybe if she behaved better, Uncle Shepard and Aunt Giselle would allow her to call them "Mom" and "Dad" again.


    If she left, all she would have were the Harper family shares-a cold, empty constion prize. The possibility of moving on without the Harper family''s attention and care left her feeling utterly helpless.


    As these thoughts swirled in Rosie''s mind, her knees buckled, and she copsed onto the floor, her chest tightening with emotion. The weight of her decisions crushed her. With a voice choked with regret, she spoke. "I was wrong, Grandpa, Grandma, Mom, Dad... I made a mistake. I''ve been consumed by jealousy. I feared losing everything to Brenna, worried she''d take all the love I have..."


    Her words faltered as tears welled up, spilling down her face, her whole body trembling under the intensity of


    her remorse.


    Even Shepard and Giselle couldn''t help but feel a pang of sympathy for her. They exchanged uncertain nces, torn between their disappointment and the sympathy they felt.


    Giselle, in particr, felt for Rosie. For years, she had treated her like she were her daughter, and though her anger had led her to refuse Rosie the title of "Mom",


    her heart softened at the sight of Rosie''s breakdown. Still,


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    Chapter 721 Made A Mistake


    she couldn''t stop being mad at her. How could Rosie-someone she had nurtured and loved-be so cruel as to hurt her biological daughter?


    The conflict within her was overwhelming, and she remained silent, her thoughts a mess she couldn''t yet


    untangle.


    Rosie noticed the unyielding expressions on the family members'' faces, and with each passing second, her


    toward Brenna grew, sinking deeper into her heart.


    resentme


    Her fro


    to he


    tion twisted into something darker as she turned toward Brenna. Without a word,


    she crawled over


    ng before her in a desperate, almost demeaning act. Grabbing Brenna''s hand, she forcefully pped her cheek with it.


    "Brenna, hit me," Rosie begged, her voice shaking with emotion. "It''s my fault. I''ve been jealous of you, and I


    know I was wrong. You can strike me and scold me; do whatever you want, I swear I won''t fight back. Just please forgive me. I''ll do anything... Anything to make this right."


    Brenna was still, her heart hardening as she watched the spectacle. She didn''t believe that someone who had repeatedly scheme? against her could suddenly change.


    Nearby, Rachael, who had been watching quietly, couldn''t take it any longer. She stepped forward, her voice cutting through the tension. ¡°Miss Brenna Harper," she said, "please, forgive Miss Rosie Harper. She''s kneeling


    before you-what more do you want from her?"


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 Chapter 73

    Chapter 73 Forgive Her


    if they had been alone, Brenna would have put Rosie in her ce without hesitation. But with the Harper family watching-especially Uncle Ableson''s side of the family-she had no choice but to ept Rosie''s apology for the sake of appearances, even if she had no intention of truly forgiving her.


    With obvious reluctance, Brenna helped Rosie to her feet, though she had no desire to pretend she liked someone she clearly despised. She never felt the need to please others, nor did she care about their opinions


    about her.


    With a sharp edge to her voice, Brenna said, "Enough with the act. You loathed me just moments ago, and now, you''re crying in front of me like this to ask for my forgiveness? What''s the point? Fine, I forgive you."


    The wordscked sincerity, spoken as if someone had forced her hand.


    The Harper family noticed her unwillingness, yet no one criticized her for it.


    Rosie felt humiliated. It was clear Brenna had no fondness for her, but there was nothing she could do about it.


    She turned to Ernst, hoping for support. Though Ernst disapproved of Rosie''s maniptive ways, he wasn''t pleased with Brenna''s unwillingness to let the matter go, either.


    ¡°Brenna, don''t be too harsh. Rosie has already apologized. Must you keep up this attitude?" he said.


    Dalton, lounging nearby, scoffed, "After everything Rosie put Brenna through, you think a few tears and an apology should erase it all? Brenna was nearly pushed out of her own family. You saw how the other branches of the Harper family treated her today. She has endured more than enough-shouldn''t she be allowed to be displeased with the matter? Why are you forcing her to let the matter go?"


    He let out a low chuckle and then continued, "Or do you expect her to just smile and embrace those who mistreated her? If an apology is all it takes to wipe the te clean, then everyone could just apologize after doing bad things and move on. That''s not how things should work."


    "You!" Ernst was too furious to argue further, though he couldn''t deny that Dalton had a point. Apologies alone didn''t erase wrongdoing. Exhaling sharply, he turned to Brenna. "Brenna, what do you want? What will it take for you to forgive Rosie?" he asked.


    Brenna found the entire situation trivial and not worth her energy. She knew Rosie would never truly admit her faults, and dragging things out would be a waste of time..


    "I''ve already forgiven her. I won''t hold this against her in the future," she said coldly. Then, tilting her head slightly, she looked at Ernst. "Or do you expect me, the victim here, to start making promises to the one who


    wronged me, Ernst?"


    Rosie nced around, hoping for support from the Harper family members, but aside from Ernst, no one spoke on her behalf. Resentment boiled within her as she realized how much influence Brenna had gained in just a


    few days.


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    Chapter 79 Forgive Her


    Clenching her fists, she seemed to make a decision Looking directly at Brenna, she ends FR what I did. I won''t make things difficult for you anymore I only treated you that way here''s the you were part of the Harper family Now that I know the truth, I won''t target you angrove


    Forcing a smile to appear sincere, she continued, "How about this? August 1st is a god dete wee banquet for you an official introduction to Shirie''e high society, solidifying your n f sociali. Il personally handle all the arrangements to show my sincerity. Done that sound god to


    d little interest in storie''s elite circles, but her studio required business connections, and WE TA


    e needed to build rtionships with the city''s influential figures.


    "Alright, Brenna said after a brief pause. "I''ll trust you for now."


    Luther and Tessa, seeing Rosie''s attempt at reconciliation, smiled approvingly. Tessa, especially, softenes at the


    said warmly, ¡°Now that''s how a family should be-united and harmonious."


    Brenna, however, remained impassive.


    To demonstrate her sincerity, Rosie personally oversaw the preparation of Brenna''s favorite dishes today instructing the chef to ensure everything was to her liking. During dinner, she even apologized to Brenna again


    And with that, the issue was put to rest.


    With the wee banquet approaching, invitations had to be sent to Shirie''s elite. Rosie took charges of the


    matter, carefully curating the guest list and customizing each invitation.


    "Mom, Dad, Ernst, Dalton, does this list look fine? Am I forgetting anyone?" Rosie asked with a pleasant smie turning toward Shepard and Giselle.


    Giselle and Shepard reviewed the list and exchanged a nce. Then, Giselle spoke up. "Rosie, why didn''t you include the Barrett family?"


    Rosie''s expression stiffened slightly, a flicker of displeasure crossing her face. She said, "Mom, Dad, it''s not that


    I don''t want to invite them. From what I heard, when Brenna was living with them, they mistreated her-kept


    her from going to school, forced her to design for them, and made her cook and clean like a servant. Honestly,


    I''d even like to see their business copse. Why should they be invited to the banquet?".


    Giselle nodded in understanding. "That may be true, but others aren''t aware of the full story. If we exclude the


    Barretts, Shirie''s elite will assume we''re ungrateful. After all, they were the ones who raised Brenna, and not inviting them might raise questions," she said.


    Shepard agreed with Giselle. He said, "Exactly. There will be plenty of time to deal with themter. For now, maintaining appearances is more important."


    100.0%


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 74

    Chapter 74 You Really Didn''t Hold Back


    At the Barrel family''s residence.


    Ruby and isabe exited the car, their hands weighed down with numerous shopping bags. Unable to carry them


    all, they called for a servant to help them.


    A servant quickly approached, drying her hands on her apron, and peered into the living room before offering a cautious heads-up. "Mrs. Barrett, Miss Barrett, just to let you know, Mr. Barrett has just returned, and he seems quite upset it might be wise to be careful around him," she said.


    Ruby dismissed the concern with a wave. "That''s nothing. His mood has been off due to work stress recently,


    Just bring these bags inside for us," she said.


    Isabe had several bags containing jewelry, handbags, and dresses. Her face was beaming with joy. It was the first time since returning to the Barrett family that she had indulged herself so freely, spending over a million


    dors on luxury brands and jewelry she had never owned before.


    Eagerly, she asked, "Mom, do you know if there''s something wrong at Dad''spany?"


    Even though the Barrett family was facing some challenges, Isabe didn''t consider it to be anything serious. She trusted her father''s and brother''s abilities to manage thepany. She had briefly tried working at the


    Only a few days ago, she had joined a horse-riding club, paying a million dors for the membership.


    She had been attending daily and had already be quite skilled.


    Ruby, who was more attuned to the gravity of the situation, let out a sigh and replied, "Ever since Brenna left, thepany has struggled to attract good orders. We still need to pay the workers'' sries, which total


    millions each month. Your father''s hair is turning gray from all the stress. Even your brother has been


    contacting clients himself to secure orders."


    Isabe casually replied with an "Oh", hardly giving the matter any thought. She was confident that the Barrett family was wealthy enough that her spending wouldn''t pose a problem for her father or brother.


    Just then, the servant interjected, "Mrs. Barrett, Miss Barrett, please be mindful. Mr. Barrett asked about your whereabouts earlier, and upon learning of your shopping, he was quite displeased, remarking that you seem to think money grows on trees."


    Ruby''s face clouded over. She said, "I see. Please take the bags upstairs discreetly and ensure he doesn''t see


    ''them."


    However, upon entering the house, Ruby and Isabe were immediately met by Alec''s stern look. "Going shopping again? My card was charged 1.8 million dors today. You really didn''t hold back! This kind of


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    Chapter 74 You Really Didn''t Hold Back


    spending will bankrupt us eventually!" he eximed


    Caught off guard, Isabe bit her lip, suddenly feeling the weight of her actions.


    The bags of luxury items seemed overly extravagant now.


    Ruby quickly nodded to the servant. "Take the bags upstairs quickly."


    She then began to confront Alec. "Why are you raising your voice like that? What''s the issue with us spending I''ve always shopped like this, and it never bothered you before. What has changed today? We just spent


    ver a million dors. When did our family ever start worrying about such a small amount? You''re ups ng Isabe! After everything she endured living away, isn''t she entitled to a few luxuries now that she''s home? Don''t be so stingy!"


    Alec, stunned by her response, sank onto the couch, releasing a deep sigh as he looked at Ruby and Isabe.


    He said in a serious tone, "Do you grasp the severity of ourpany''s situation? Since Brenna left, we''ve lost


    all our confirmed orders, and our sales team has failed to secure new ones. Our factory has been shut down for


    almost a month."


    Ruby was aware that thepany had been struggling recently. Every night at the dinner table, her husband


    and son would discuss different ways to resolve the situation.


    But she hadn''t realized the situation was this dire.


    "What''s causing this?" she asked, quickly cing the me on Alec''s shoulders for failing to maintain their


    business orders, frustrated now that their personal spending was under scrutiny.


    Alec''s patience snapped. He eximed in anger, "What''s going on? I''ve been discussing ourpany''s difficulties daily. You know full well what''s happening! We need to cut back on spending given our tight


    financial situation!"


    Ruby retorted sharply, "The purchases are already made. What do you expect us to do, return everything? If you want them returned, handle the matter yourself. I won''t embarrass myself over this."


    Her attention was then caught by a gold-embossed invitation on the table.


    "The return banquet for the Harper family''s daughter?" She looked at the signature and suddenly realized it was from Shepard.


    Her mood lightened. "Look, let''s not argue. This might be our chance. The Harper family, one of the top families in Shirie, is inviting us to their daughter''s return banquet. They are a powerhouse in the automotive industry. You could ask Mr. Harper for some orders. Wouldn''t that help solve our problems?"


    Alec, who spent more time on operations than social engagements, was puzzled. "Who is the Harper family''s daughter? We''ve never really interacted with the Harper family before. Why would they invite us to the banquet?"


    Ruby shook her head and said, "I''m not sure who their daughter is, either, but there''s talk that the Harper family lost a daughter twenty years ago and have only recently found her."

 Chapter 75

    Chapter 75 Could The Harper Family''s Daughte...


    Alec lowered read, lost in thought. Just then, a possibility crept into his mind, one that sent a chill down his spine


    "Do you think it''s possible that Brenna is the Harper family''s lost daughter? Her biological parents''st name is Harper, isn''t it?" he curiously asked.


    Before Ruby could respond, Isabe slid onto the sofa beside him and said, "Dad, that''s impossible! Didn''t they say Brenna''s biological parents were from some remote vige? They''re poor! Her mom''s a teacher, her dad''s a farmer, and she has an unde who''s bedridden. But the Harper family we are talking about now is one of the most powerful and wealthy families in Shirie. If Brenna was really their daughter, why didn''t they send someone to bring her back when she left our family?"


    Disdain flickered across Ruby''s face. She quickly nodded in agreement and said, "Exactly! How could Brenna be that lucky? There''s no way she''s rted to that Harper family. You are overthinking the matter."


    A heavy silence settled over the room. No one spoke, but the same thought lingered in everyone''s mind. Still, Brenna''s realst name was Harper. What were the chances of that being a coincidence?


    Could it really be true? Was Brenna the daughter of the Harper family?


    The thought weighed heavily on Alec''s mind. After a long pause, he lifted his gaze to his wife and daughter and said, "Buy some decent clothes. We will go to the Harper estate to attend the banquet. I''ll see if we can build a good rtionship with them and if they''re willing to throw us a helping hand. Even if ourpany ends up being their subcontractor, it''s better than having no business at all."


    Ruby''s eyes sparkled with excitement, and Isabe''s face lit up with a smile. A few momentster, thetter cautiously asked, "Dad, how much should Mom and I spend on the clothes? The Harper family is hosting such avish return banquet for their daughter. All of Shire''s elite will be there. We can''t show up in in outfits and risk being looked down on."


    Alec nodded in agreement. Making an impression was worth the expense, especially when it could benefit their family''s business.


    He said, "There''s no time for custom orders. Just pick something from a reputable brand. I''ll give you a million."


    Isabe and Ruby exchanged delighted looks. Their excitement made them forget the coincidence of Brenna having the Harper name.


    However, Alec couldn''t ignore the nagging feeling in his gut. The timing was too strange. Brenna had left just days before the Harper family''s daughter returned. Could that really be a coincidence?


    If that were true, then Brenna''s contributions to the Barrett family''s sess shouldn''t be over. She had helped them make money before. She should definitely continue to do so in the future.


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    Chapter 75 Could The Harper Family''s Daughter Be Brenna


    After all, the Barretts had raised her. Besides, the Harper family owed them for that. They should repay them by supporting their business.


    A slow smile spread across Alec''s face. He reached for his phone and called his assistant to order an


    investigation into the identity of the Harper family''s daughter.


    Nearby sabe studied the invitation closely. The banquet was set to take ce at the Peace Hotel, the most


    s and prestigious venue in Shirie. It was said that the pastries there were crafted by world-ss chefs;


    are delicacies that even money couldn''t buy.


    the


    The frus were imported from overseas, and every drink on the menu was of the finest quality.


    But what excited Isabe the most was the chance to mingle with families even more powerful than Jordy''s. If


    a young heir from one of those top-tier families took an interest in her, she could secure a better future for


    herself.


    She had also heard that the Harper family''s eldest and second sons were bachelors, making them prime candidates. With her beauty, if they were both drawn to her... which one should she choose?


    The mere thought sent a thrill through her.


    If she managed to marry someone from the Harper family, she would make sure they supported her family in climbing to the top of Shirie''s elite. Then, she could be able to indulge in luxury.


    Brenna had been busy for days, and she finally finished her submission for the car designpetition.


    Just after she submitted her work, a message popped up on her phone. It was from her studio''s manager, Thiago Moreno.


    "Someone wants us to design a car. They''re offering ten million."


    Brenna replied, "We can take the job. You handle it."


    "Their demands are high. They want the best. Honestly, I think the price is too low," Thiago replied.


    "You''re right. If you''re too busy, we can pass on this one," Brenna responded.


    Thiago was more than just her manager. He ran both of her studios. He had been her college ssmate before. They shared a passion for design, and his business acumen had helped her earn a fortune.


    On top of that, he was handsome and reliable.


    A faint smile tugged at Brenna''s lips. She savored the rare moment of calm.


    Meanwhile, Rosie was seething. A well-known studio had just rejected her offer. They imed the money she was offering was not enough and suggested she look elsewhere.


    Frustrated, she muttered under her breath, "Who do they think they are?"


    Unwilling to give up, she dialed their number again. "I''ll offer 30 million. Will you take the job now?"


    Thiago stood by the window, his gaze distant as he considered her words. "No. If you want world-ss, top-ranked design, you need to offer a price that reflects its value," he said.


    48.7%


    Chapter 75 Could The Harper Family''s Daughter Be Brenna


    "Is 40 million not enough for a design?" Rosie scoffed. "Don''t think you can y hardball with me if you won''t take the job, there are plenty of other studios that will."


    100.0%

 Chapter 76

    Chapter 76 Attending The Banquet


    Rosie tried hard to contain her rage, maintaining a seemingly friendly tone. "Isn''t thirty million enough? What kind of price are you looking for? It''s merely a design blueprint. Do you honestly need to ask for an unreasonable price?" she said.


    In the past few days, she had been reaching out to the contacts Kennedi had given her to ask for design quotes.


    While many studios and frence designers quoted around ten million, none could promise a top-tier design capable of clinching a victory in the Harper Group''s design contest.


    The Night Studio was the sole firm confident enough to promise a win, yet their staff''s aloof behavior, as if uninterested in whether she hired them, only served to upset her.


    Thiago responded with unruffled ease, "Are you aware of the potential value our design could bring? Our work could secure you at least third ce at the Harper Group''s designpetition, paving the way for a partnership with them. Have you considered the annual profits from such a coboration? Besides, we rarely sell our designs. Thirty million will only buy you a mediocre design. If that satisfies you, we can proceed at that price."


    Rosie found Thiago''s logic uneptable, and her irritation deepened as she tried to determine their asking price. "What is your price then?" she asked.


    Thiago calmly answered, "For exclusive rights to a top-tier design, one hundred million."


    "Have you lost your mind?" Rosie blurted out, unable to contain her shock. "A hundred million for that?"


    She ended the call in frustration. Even if she gathered all her money, she still wouldn''t have one hundred million. Despite receiving dividends from the Harper Group and generous allowances from her family, she spent a lot daily and never had the habit of saving money, leaving her with little in savings.


    Irritated, Rosie returned to Kennedi''s list, resolved to find a premium design at a more reasonable price.


    Before she knew it, August 1st arrived.


    Rosie had chosen the prestigious Peace Hotel''s third floor for the wee banquet. The ce was renowned as Shirie''s finest venue.


    At the venue, a talented young bartender performed a captivating disy of bottle-flipping and mixing, skillfully crafting cocktails that he lined up on a long


    table.


    This table was luxuriously set with an assortment of delicate pastries, freshly sliced fruits, and a cooler filled with assorted soft drinks and ice creams.


    Just before seven o''clock, the elite of Shirie began to arrive, including dashing young heirs and fashionable


    0.0%


    socialites.


    Their fashion was distinctly high-end, with each of them donning designer ensembles.


    The attendees, drinks in hand, seamlessly mingled, engaging in lively conversations with those they found interesting.


    Alec, Ruby, Isabe, and Mack Barrett were among the early arrivals, each dressed wlessly and styled to perfection. Ruby and Isabe, wearing incredibly expensive gowns, radiated elegance and charm as they moved throug! e crowd with grace.


    When Isabe had returned to the Barrett family, the Barrett family had also organized a wee banquet for her, but it had been attended only by middle- ss families from Shirie. It was nothingpared to the Harper family''s banquet.


    Upon entering, they immediately recognized several faces. Alec, in particr, was thrilled to spot a middle-aged man in a casual jacket with a young man at his side. "Ruby, did you notice? The Mitchell family is here as well! Emmett, themander of the military district, never attends banquets, yet he''s here today. It''s really lucky that we came here- our family is going to be saved."


    Mack nodded eagerly, already thinking about how to approach the Mitchell family. He pointed to the young man and said, "Yes, Dad is absolutely right. Ethan, the head of the Mitchell Group, is here, too. If we manage to speak with them, our family will rise in status in no time!"


    Isabe''s attention was captured by Ethan, who wore a sleek ck suit and shirt without a tie. His appearance was striking.


    Ruby gestured towards a woman in a purple gown. "That''s the Wagner family, one of the top families in Shirie. I ran into Mrs. Wagner while shopping before, and we chatted briefly. See, the young man next to Mrs. Wagner is her son. He''s not yet thirty, and I''ve heard he doesn''t have a girlfriend."


    Isabe nced at Mrs. Wagner''s son. He was of average looks and not very tall, holding a ss of red wine with a grin that seemed a bit too smug.


    Her interest waned; Ethan''s charm and status were far more appealing to her.


    Isabe turned to Ruby and said, "Mom, do we know the people there? Should we go over and introduce ourselves?" She was eager to get acquainted with Ethan.


    100.0%

 Chapter 77

    Chapter 77 Kicking Her Out


    As the tett family discussed strategies to break into Shirie''s elite social circle, Isabe''s attention was drawn


    ering the banquet hall who seemed entirely out of ce.


    to some


    Dressed simply in a white T-shirt and jeans, topped with a baseball cap and sneakers, and carrying a beige backpack, Brenna was wearing an attire that was notably casual and mismatched for the grandeur of the event. Still, she looked beautiful.


    Recognizing Brenna, Isabe couldn''t resist scoffing, "Mom, look, Brenna''s here. Can you believe what she''s wearing? Her outfit looks like it''s worth less than two hundred dors. Does she even understand the caliber of this event? This isn''t a ce for someone dressed like that."


    Ruby nced over and noticed Brenna by the buffet, casually selecting fruits to fill a small te.


    Continuing her exploration, Brenna soon moved to the desserts, sampling a few, and then to the beverage station, where she chose a ss of blueberry juice.


    She had spent the entire day with Thiago, going over the details of a custom smart system for helicopters with a client. She hadn''t eaten or drunk anything all day, and now, hunger was setting in.


    By the time the meeting ended, it was alreadyte. She hadn''t had a chance to change and had to rush over to the banquet immediately.


    Ruby frowned with disapproval, saying to Isabe, "I bet she can''t even afford a proper meal anymore and just showed up here to eat things for free. We should remove her before she tells anyone she''s associated with our


    family. It would be embarrassing for us."


    "Mom, let''s go and kick her out now," Mack suggested, his expression disdainful as he moved towards Brenna.


    Alec, observing the scene, felt a twinge of disappointment. He had entertained the possibility that Brenna


    might be the Harper family''s recently discovered daughter, but her current behavior made that seem


    improbable. After all, the Harper family''s daughter wouldn''t appear in such casual attire.


    And why was Brenna behaving as if she''d never seen good food before, piling her te at the buffet like that?


    He resigned himself to the fact that Brenna was not the daughter of the Harper family.


    He said, "You all go ahead. I''ll use this opportunity to meet some of Shirie''s wealthiest individuals and try to secure a few orders. Try to keep things quiet. It''d be shameful if you cause a scene over this."


    Ruby nodded in agreement, saying, "Understood, I''ll handle it discreetly."


    Brenna had secluded herself in a quiet corner to eat while still texting her client about follow-up details. Her concentration was so intense that she failed to notice anyone approaching


    Out of nowhere, a tall figure appeared before her,pletely blocking her from view.


    ¡°Brenna, how did you get in here? Haven''t you caused enough embarrassment? Leave now!" Mack eximed


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    Chapter 77 Kicking Her Out


    harshly, yanking the blueberry juice from Brenna''s grasp and smashing it down onto the nearby table,


    The juice sttered, somending on the table and some on Brenna''s face.


    Caught off guard, Brenna looked up to find Mack pointing aggressively towards the exit, his face contorted with


    anger.


    "Mack? What do you want?" Brenna asked, reaching for a napkin to dab away the juice on her face. She was not shocked to encounter the Barrett family here, as her parents had informed her of their attendance.


    But she didn''t appreciate their attitude.


    Ruby and Isabe quickly nked Mack, effectively cornering Brenna.


    Isabe said with disdain, "Just because your realst name is Harper doesn''t mean you belong to this Harper


    family''s event. You shouldn''t stay here. Leave."


    Ruby also said to Brenna, "I raised you, Brenna, and I don''t want to witness you humiliating yourself or tarnishing the Barrett name. Leave now, before the Harper family sees you freeloading and throws you out


    themselves. If they find out and decide to throw you out, don''t expect us to help you."


    Brenna nced at the three of them, irritated that she had ever agreed to her parents inviting the Barrett


    family.


    "You aren''t the hosts here. What right do you have to kick me out?" Brenna continued to eat, dismissing the


    Barrett family memberspletely.


    Mack, seething with anger at Brenna''s disregard and poor manners, pulled Isabe aside gently and grabbed Brenna''s arm harshly, attempting to pull her towards the exit. "You don''t belong here; leave," he said.


    Isabe also harshly tugged on Brenna''s wrist, turning it red. "You must be here fishing for a rich husband.


    Everyone''s well-off here. Maybe you''re hoping some rich old man will take care of you so you won''t have to


    worry about your next meal. But look at you, not even dressed properly to attract anyone. Who would want


    someone like you?" she said.

 Chapter 78

    Chapter 78 Causing A


    Scene


    Brenna was yanked from her chair, her phone ttering to the floor. "I am the daughter of the Harper family!


    What are you doing? Let go of me!"


    Ruby walked over and shoved Brenna as she said, "Dressed in rags, you im to be a Harper? Hah, how


    shameless! How could someone from the Harper family look like this? You smell of cheap perfume, probably


    only thinking about seducing men. What, are you hoping to snag a rich man and be his mistress?"


    The corner where they stood was near the exit to the banquet hall, and in the blink of an eye, Brenna was


    pulled toward the door.


    "Mom, help!" Brenna''s cries echoed loudly.


    Ruby thought she was calling her and said coldly, "Don''t call me mom. I am not the mother of someone so


    disgraceful. I never want to see you again!"


    Mack, towering over Brenna, shook his head disapprovingly. "You shouldn''t even be considering something like


    that. I know you''re ustomed to thefort of being a Barrett daughter and don''t want to go back to that


    poor, run-down vige. I understand that, but I can''t stand by while you act like this. You''re dishonoring the


    Barrett family," he said.


    Ruby and Isabe exchanged looks. They were aware that Brenna had made a fortune from her consultancy for Vincent and wasn''t financially desperate. They believed her greed drove her to want more, and that she was


    here to seduce a rich man.


    Isabe''s eyes drifted back to the banquet hall, where Ethan was still chatting with a group of elite guests. He nced in her direction briefly.


    Convinced that Ethan was looking at her, Isabe shed what she believed to be a captivating smile.


    However, Ethan quickly averted his gaze, showing no interest.


    Isabe''s spirits plummeted, and she blurted out to Brenna, "Just get out of here."


    Enraged, Brenna retaliated by kicking Mack sharply. "Who are you to dictate where I can be?" she eximed in


    anger.


    Mack stumbled and fell, surprised by Brenna''s unexpected strength.


    Ruby screamed, "Have you lost your senses, Brenna? How could you kick, him like that; he is your brother!"


    Themotion captured the attention of everyone in the room. Conversations halted, and all eyes turned to the spectacle of Mack on the floor.


    "What happened?"


    0.0%


    23:21


    "What''s going on?"


    Elsewhere in the hall, Shepard and Giselle paused their conversation as the disturbance reached their ears. They set their drinks aside and moved quickly towards themotion.


    Brenna stepped over Mack, brushed past Ruby and Isabe, and continued calling out, "Mom!"


    Bron:


    a sce


    walked over, visibly displeased with the Barrett family''s antics Me recalled their interference when attempted to provide medical care for his grandfather at the hospital, and now, they were causing


    "Brenna, are you alright?" He noticed stains of blueberry juice on Brenna''s face and, calling a server over for a napkin, he tenderly wiped her face clean.


    Giselle took Brenna''s hand, her voiceden with worry. "Can you tell us what''s going on? Who did this to you?"


    Mack, regaining his footing, pulled Brenna away from Giselle and sneered, "Really, Brenna, you''ve gone too far this time. Hiring an actress to y your mother just to ascend the socialdder?"


    Shepard''s anger : ed upon hearing this. "Kick this man out immediately!" he ordered.


    His daughter was being mistreated right at their event-this was uneptable!


    At that moment, Alec intervened. Witnessing Mack sneer at Giselle, he struck Mack across the face and said, "Idiot! This is Mrs. Harper!"


    Mack, clutching his cheek, suddenly grasped the gravity of his mistake. While he hadn''t recognized Giselle


    earlier, he recognized Shepard.


    "Mrs. Harper, I''m terribly sorry. I thought you were the actress my sister had hired," he said, apologizing.


    Giselle dismissed Mack''s apology and turned back to Brenna, asking gently, "My dear, are you alright?"


    Reassured by Giselle''s presence, Brenna approached her and replied, "Mom, I''m okay."


    Mack, still in disbelief, muttered, "So... You really are the Harper family''s daughter?"


    By this point, Ruby''s confidence had evaporated. Fearing the repercussions of the Harper family''s actions against them, she hastily tried to defuse the tension. She said, ¡°Brenna, please, let''s not make a big deal out of this. Mack simply wanted you to wear something more suitable for the asion. He didn''t intend any harm. Please forgive his mistake."


    Ethan stood next to Brenna, observing the Barrett family''s pathetic disy with cold indifference. "Is that so? That''s not how it appeared to me. It seemed more like you were trying to force her out. I think you know what


    you did."


    Alec hadn''t anticipated things getting out of hand like this. Weren''t Brenna''s parents supposed to be poor, living in the countryside? How could they possibly be the wealthy Harper family?


    Realizing his mistake, he urged Mack, saying, "Apologize to Brenna immediately!" Isabe was boiling with jealousy. Ethan''s protectiveness toward Brenna was obvious to everyone. How could Brenna be so fortunate? She had left the Barrett family and instantly joined the prestigious Harper family. And to top it off, she had such a handsome, wealthy man caring for her.


    100.0%

 Chapter 79

    Chapter 79 Is That Your Definition Of Treating H...


    Mack was filled with regret. What he had once viewed as an opportunity to win over the Harper famly and secure their support for the Barren family''s project had ended up Backfiring instead of drawing frem down


    his actions had only offended them


    He said, "Not recognizing you as the Harper family''s daughter right away was my mistake, Brenna I''m thi sorry Is there any chance you could forgive me?"


    A chill ran through Brenna''s eyes as she remained silent. Her time with Mack at the Barrett famly had never been good. He had never treated her like family. He had been demanding, demeaning and aways making ter


    feel like nothing more than a servant.


    She vividly remembered a harsh childhood episode. If she didn''t live up to Aler''s strict expectations sie v denied meals. Desperate and hungry, she had once secretly asked Mack for something to eat. His response hat been heartless-not only had he denied her request, but he had also exposed her request to Her


    What kind of brother behaved in such a way?


    Even after she had left the Barrett family, Mack''s disdainful attitude toward her never changed. It wass though, in his eyes, she still remained beneath him.


    Unable to contain her frustration any longer, Ruby scolded Brenna, "Why ding to such a gievances, Brema? It''s petty. Remember, you grew up under the Barrett family''s care, and Mack was good to you during fuse


    years."


    Alec was always the calm, rational one in the Barrett family. He was constantlying up with ns to win the Harper family over, hoping to gain theirsting gratitude.


    With the tension escting now, he knew he needed to defuse the situation. His goal was smplete had m convince Brenna to forgive the Barrett family, and maybe even speak well of them.


    With a dismissiveugh, he said, "Let''s leave the past behind. Brenna, you''re driving now and your nga family loves you deeply. We, your brother, your mother, and I have always cared about you, wanted attenut your well-being since you left."


    Brenna struggled to hide the disgust she felt at Alec''s hollow words.


    She knew Alec was a master at pretending, always calm and pleasant in public to make sure he never affenter others. But behind closed doors, his behavior was far from kind, especially when it came to her


    In her childhood, Alec''s harsh words, food deprivation, and physical punishments failover whenever ther efforts didn''t meet his expectations


    Brenna withdrew her cold gaze and said to Giselle, Mom, my childhood under my adopove father was difficut


    0.0%


    Chapter 79 Is That Your Definition Of Treating Her Well


    Whenever I failed to meet his design standards, I was punished harshly, sometimes they''d take away my meals and make me work endlessly to improve my skills. I think I owe my sess in design to the harsh methods of


    the Barrett family."


    The room was filled with notable attendees in Shirie, including the Mitchell family, the Harper family, the Russel mily, and the Wagner family, along with other influential figures, all listening intently to Brenna''s


    every word


    Everyon the room could easily understand what Brenna meant when she spoke about how the Barrett


    family!


    ed her.


    They understood that Brenna was saying the Barrett family had mistreated her. People all turned to look at the Barrett family members with disdain.


    Ethan, his voice thick with sarcasm, said, "I suppose we should start taking good care of the Barrett family from


    now on. After all, we owe them for the way they raised Brenna, don''t we?"


    The Barrett family members, knowing what he meant, offered awkward smiles in response.


    With a forced grin, Ruby quickly said, "That''s not the whole story. We always treated Brenna well. Her


    achievements are proof of that, aren''t they?"


    Shepard, watching the scene, stood nearby with a dark expression on his face. He knew all too well how the


    Barretts had truly treated Brenna, having personally looked into the matter.


    Even Ernst, though he didn''t like Brenna, couldn''t allow anyone to mistreat his sister.


    His voice was cold as he said, "Is that so? Brenna never even finished her elementary education because of you.


    Instead, she was kept at home to work endlessly on designs and do chores, like amon servant. Is that your


    definition of treating her well?"


    Dalton''s scoff was sharp with bitterness. He said, "At least you made sure she


    was fed so she didn''t starve to


    death. Does that mean we should be grateful to you?"


    Isabe''s eyes grew wide as she took in the sight of Brenna''s brothers, especially captivated by their remarkable


    looks. Dalton, in particr, stood out. He was a top celebrity famous for his striking appearance.


    It felt as though fortune was on Brenna''s side, blessing her with such remarkable brothers.


    Alec simmered with anger, secretly bitter towards the Harper family for using their influence to publicly embarrass his family, putting them in an awkward situation.


    His initial intentions at this gathering had been towork with power yers and secure a few business arrangements. Now, it appeared that Shirie''s elite circle might abandon the Barrett family, perhaps even joining forces with the Harper family to work against them.


    His frustration erupted as he quickly said, "This isn''t true. We''ve never done anything wrong to Brenna. Brenna, you''ve got to back me up on this. After we''ve raised you for so many years, you should at least stand up for us."


    Mack''s gaze at Brenna was filled with anger. He regretted that he hadn''t killed her before.


    The Barrett family now finally understood why the Harper family had invited them to Brenna''s return banquet.


    This wasn''t just a mere celebration. It was a carefully nned move of the Harper family to seek revenge on


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    23:21


    Chapter 79 is That Your Definition Of Treating Her Well


    Brenna''s behalf using their influence


    100.0%

 Chapter 80

    Chapter 80 Ethan''s Gift For


    Brenna


    Although Alec''s resentment toward Brenna simmered beneath the surface, he was painfully aware that his


    family could not afford to risk offending the Harper family now. In fact, he saw this as a crucial opportunity-


    one he hoped would help him bring his family back to its former glory.


    Alec''s gaze lingered on Brenna, his expression etched with a mix of pain. "You must remember what I did for


    you, Brenna. I raised you and guided you, and now that you''re living a prosperous life, you can''t forget the


    kindness I''ve shown you, can you?" he said.


    Brenna''s eyes grew cold, herposure unwavering. "Don''t worry. I won''t forget that," she replied calmly, her voice steady. "I''ll make sure my parents and brothers look after the Barrett family."


    The Barrett family members, overwhelmed with excitement, struggled to conceal their delight. Hope flickered in their eyes as they exchanged nces.


    Alec''s voice dropped to a more personal tone as he leaned in slightly. "In that case, I won''t hide anything from you. Since you left, thepany has barely received any new orders. We''ve even fallen behind on wages for the workers. Could you ask your parents to assign us some projects? It would make a world of difference," he said.


    Brenna''s expression remained unchanging, though inwardly, her mind raced. The Barrett family had always managed to secure work in the past; there had never been a shortage of orders. Why were they in such dire straits now? It seemed theirpany was on the brink of copse.


    Brenna''s gaze flicked toward Shepard, noting the icy detachment in his eyes. It was clear that he didn''t favor the Barrett family-his dislike for them was palpable. Could the Barrett family''s current financial struggles be a result of his actions?


    "Don''t worry, Brenna," Shepard said, his voice steady and reassuring as his hand gently patted her shoulder. "I will help the Barrett family''s business." His words carried weight, an attempt to maintain control and prevent his daughter from appearing ungrateful, especially in front of others.


    With the Harper family''s promise, the Barrett family felt a newfound sense of pride, their dreams of joining Shirie''s elite suddenly within reach. The idea of growing their empire under such protection filled them with a quiet, satisfied anticipation.


    Ruby smiled with practiced warmth, her voiceced with insincerity as she said, "I always knew you were a thoughtful child, Brenna. Though you''ve left our family, you''ll always remain my daughter. And should you ever choose to return, the Barrett family will always wee you back with open arms."


    Brenna''s lips tightened into a thin line, her patience wearing thin. The words were like venom now, spoken with such deceitful sweetness that she could hardly stand to hear them. When she had left the Barrett family, Ruby had been cruel, her words to her harsh and cold.


    00%


    2321


    In the hospital, Ruby had shown her no respect, only disdain. Now, seeing the shift in Ruby''s attitude, Brenna thought that she was very hypocritical.


    Trying to contain her frustration, Brenna nced at her parents her face unreadable. "I''m going to change my clothes," she said, attempting to distance herself from the situation.


    Ruby, sensing an opportunity, quickly nudged Isabe, "Go with Brenna," she instructed, her voice filled with


    false sweetness.


    Isabe sto still, her face hardening as jealousy gnawed at her.


    Why was Brenna so lucky? Why had Brenna enjoyed thefort of the Barrett family for twenty years only to step into an even wealthier life after leaving?


    The bitterness welled up inside her, and she crossed her arms, unwilling to move.


    She pouted, her eyes fixed on the floor, her envy growing harder to contain with every passing moment. Why


    was life so unfair?


    Ethan gently took a shopping bag from Neville, his eyes softening as they met Brenna''s. He said, "Brenna, I picked this dress out for you. Would you like to try it on?"


    Brenna nced at the shopping bag, a polite andposed smile tugging at her lips. "Thank you, Ethan. That''s very kind of you, but there''s no need for that. My parents have already chosen a dress for me, and I''d prefer not to disregard their thoughtful gesture," she said.


    Isabe, standing nearby, clenched her fists, her eyes narrowing as she watched Ethan''splete attention on


    Brenna,


    The jealousy bubbling inside her was impossible to ignore. She was right before Ethan, yet he didn''t even nce her way. What made Brenna so special? Wasn''t she just as beautiful, if not more so? Surely, Ethan''s judgment


    was wed.


    Ruby, noticing Isabe''s simmering frustration, quickly intervened, saying to Isabe, "Why don''t you go with


    Brenna to change?"


    She believed perhaps this was Isabe''s chance to get closer to Ethan.


    Ruby''s eyes darted to Isabe, signaling her silently to seize the opportunity.


    Sensing the opportunity, Isabe forced a smile and approached Brenna with feigned warmth. She said,


    ¡°Brenna, Mr. Mitchell is just trying to be kind to you. Why not ept the gift from him? I''ll go with you to


    change." Her words were calm, but the underlying tension was palpable. She could barely conceal the frustration boiling inside her.


    Rosie, observing the subtle shift in Isabe''s behavior, couldn''t help but smirk inwardly. An idea began to take root in her mind-perhaps she could turn Isabe into a pawn in her game against Brenna.


    With a calcted glint in her eyes, Rosie said, "Yes, Brenna, Mr. Mitchell never gifts clothes to women. You''re the first to receive such a gift from him.¡±


    Rosie''s nce then drifted toward Audrey, who stood nearby, quietly observing the scene.


    Since Ableson had saved Ethan''s father, the two families were bound by strong ties. Logically, if a Harper


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    23:21


    Chapter 80 Ethan''s Gift For Brenna


    daughter were to marry Ethan, Audrey would be the most likely candidate.


    Rosie''s words were meant to provoke Audrey. She wanted to see the stir of jealousy in Audrey, to make her


    target Brenna


    Audrey, a bit caught off guard by Rosie''s words, quickly regained herposure. A marriage to Ethan had never even crossed her mind-she didn''t believe in being shackled by outdated arrangements. She saw right


    through Rosie''s ploy.


    Her gaze me* Ethan''s, and for the first time, Audrey noticed a certain softness in his gaze on Brenna, a warmth


    that seeme ore than just volite-something deeper, something personal. The act of gifting clothes in front of


    so many people was a clear deration of his interest. Audrey smiled softly and said, "Brenna, just ept it.


    You can always wear it another day."


    Brenna epted the shopping bag from Ethan with a soft nod. "I''ll go change now," she said, her voice calm


    and polite.


    Without hesitation, Isabe followed her. "I''ll help you with that!" she said.


    Ethan stood silently, watching Brenna leave, making no move to follow. Meanwhile, Rosie''s disappointment grew. Despite being the perfect candidate for Ethan''s affections, Audrey had


    shown no reaction-no jealousy, no hint of hostility toward Brenna. Could it be that Audrey didn''t like Ethan?


    But she found it hard to believe that there was a woman in this world who was not interested in a man like


    Ethan


    Inside the dressing room, three striking dresses hung, each one more breathtaking than thest. One was a strapless ck ball gown, its intricate design enhanced by a diamond-studded choker that glistened brilliantly under the lights. Another was an elegant red dress, radiating sophistication with its perfectly tailored fit. Thest was an opulent gown paired with an borate set of gemstone jewelry.


    Isabe couldn''t help but stare at them, her eyes wide with awe. Each gown seemed more priceless than thest, likely worth millions. Inparison, her clothes felt like something from a discount store. The stark difference made her feel small, and a twinge of envy crept into her heart as she stood there.

 Now His Rival 81

    Chapter 81 None Of The


    Dresses Can Be Worn


    Isabe''s attention lingered on the three dresses, her expression filled with yearning Just the chance to borrow one would be enough for her.


    Brenna, meanwhile, had already set her sights on the ck dress. Catching Isabe''s intense stare, she easily picked up on the longing in her eyes.


    With a smirk, Brenna made up her mind-no matter how much Isabe wanted the dress, she wouldn''t let her


    get it.


    Stepping closer, Brenna tapped Isabe''s arm lightly. "Give me a hand with putting this on, will you?" she said.


    Isabe turned, offering a somewhat forced smile. "It''s stunning. This must be your first time wearing something like this. It''s natural to need a little help. I''ll take care of it," she said.


    Before she could move, a knock at the door broke the moment. Brenna opened it to find Rosie and Audrey standing outside.


    Audrey, in the front, wore a warm smile. ¡°Brenna, Aunt Giselle sent me to assist you," she said.


    "Perfect timing. These dresses are a little tricky-I could use some help," Brenna replied, stepping aside to let


    them in.


    Audrey had chosen a simple look today, wearing a sleeveless beige dress that reached her knees. Her hair was styled in a neat bun, entuated by a delicate, diamond-studded tiara, lending her an air of quiet elegance.


    Rosie''s outfit, on the other hand, was grand. Draped in a striking red gown, shepleted her look with an exaggerated bow in her hair and a scarf that concealed half of her face.


    Trailing behind Rosie was an attendant, carefully bncing a tray of drinks.


    Rosie picked up a ss of red wine and extended it toward Isabe. "Here, Miss Barrett, have a drink," she said.


    Since Rosie was being nice to her, Isabe saw no reason to refuse. She stole a nce in Brenna''s direction,


    who had already disappeared behind the curtain, with Audrey assisting her. Clearly, her help wasn''t needed.


    "Thank you!" Isabe cheerfully clinked sses with Rosie, though she hadn''t yet decided what more to say to


    her.


    Rosie spoke first. "We''re grateful for the care you showed Brenna while she was with the Barrett family. On behalf of my parents, thank you. If you ever need any help, feel free to reach out to me."


    Isabe''s smile widened, a genuine sense of ease washing over her. Among all the Harpers, Rosie was by far the most approachable. Since arriving at the party, this was the first kind gesture she had received from any of the Harper family members.


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    Excited texted to the dress and disappeared into another changing room. The moment she was out of sight, Rose expression turned cold reigning a misstep, she staggered, causing the red wine in her hand to spill all


    redowing a loud crush, the clothes rack tipped over, and Rosiended dramatically on the floor.


    and Audrey rushed out of the changing room to find Rosie on the floor, a shattered wine ss by her


    and thest dress ruined by a deep red stain.


    Rosie immediatelyunched into an apology. "I''m really sorry! I was only trying to help, but I tripped, and the


    ss ended up rumed," she said.


    Audrey approached to assist her up, her expression tightening in displeasure. "Are you okay?" she asked.


    Bor dusted herself oft, adjusting her clothes. T''m fine. Does the dress Brenna tried fit?" she said.


    Audrey let out a small sigh. "It fits, but the zipper in the back is broken-it won''t close," she replied.


    Rose turned to look, noticing that Brenna was clutching the fabric at her chest, clearly struggling to hold it


    together


    Just then, Isabe emerged from the changing room, holding the gown with a look of dissatisfaction.


    She carefully set the clothes rack upright before handing the dress back to Rosie. "I''m sorry, Miss Harper, but I can''t wear this. The shit is too high, and the seam under the arm is torn," she said.


    Brenna took in the situation, her expression unreadable. All three dresses had suddenly be unusable-too much of a coincidence to ignore. These gowns had been carefully prepared by her parents, yet now, none were fit to wear


    Audrey narrowed her eyes, suspicion creeping into her voice as she said, "This can''t be a coincidence. One dress ruined with wine, another with a broken zipper, and now, this one with a torn seam? It seems like someone tampered with them


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    Chapter 81 None Of The Dresses Can Be Worn


    Rosie immediately nodded in agreement. "Yes, I think so, too. But right now, we should focus on figuring out. what Brenna would wear instead of dwelling on that," she said.


    Mother''s Day Limited-Time O

 Chapter 82

    Chapter 82 Embarrassing Herself In Front Of...


    Brenna''s lips tightened as she moved towards the small sofa. Holding the shopping bag Ethan had given her, she gently pulled out the dress from inside.


    She said, "No worries. This one, from Ethan, should be fine."


    Jealousy ate away at Rosie, who had secretly worked with Sylvie and Vivian to ruin the other three dresses. However, she had been unable to tamper with Ethan''s gift.


    With a forced grin, Rosie said, "Perfect, it''s fortunate Ethan thought to gift you a dress. You should try it on right away to see if it fits."


    Back in the dressing room, Audrey stood close to Brenna, where they whispered to each other.


    "Isn''t it too strange that all three dresses ended up having problems?" Audrey assisted Brenna in slipping out of the ck dress, her face etched with concern.


    Brenna nodded and said, "It''s clear someone tampe eat them. We can review the security tapester to see


    who''s responsible."


    Audrey''s brow creased. "It seems someone wants to make a fool of you tonight. Thankfully, Ethan gifted you a


    dress. And if it doesn''t fit, I''ll lend you mine.


    Grateful, Brenna expressed her gratitude with a smile.


    Ethan''s gift was an elegant beige gown that brushed the floor, adorned with diamonds on the bodice andplemented by a fiveyer strand of pearls around the neck.


    Audrey''s face brightened. "The fit is perfect. Ethan really knows your measurements," she said.


    Just as Brenna was about to leave, Audrey grabbed her arm and said, "Stay alert today. The person responsible for the earlier mishaps is probably not finished."


    As she left the dressing room, Brenna noticed Rosie and Isabe nearby, whispering to each other. They quickly stopped talking and forced a smile when they saw her, their unease evident.


    Isabe, who rarely praised Brenna, forced apliment. "Brenna, you look stunning," she said.


    Though her words were ttering, her intentions were sinister. The off-the- shoulder design of Brenna''s dress presented an opportunity for her. If someone were to pull at the hem, it could cause an embarrassing wardrobe


    malfunction.


    The possibility of such a potential spectacle about Brenna thrilled Isabe internally.


    Brenna looked at Isabe and Rosie with indifference. Why did they seem so close now? It was as if they had


    Chapter 62 Farmansang area in Fren in Paryse


    known each other for years


    Aher leaving the dressing area, Brenns entered the banquet hall where shepard and cleetle hard post finished introducing her Appnes filled the use she stepped into view, and Audrey gently nudged her, whispering,


    This is roun moment I''ll etsy hart here"


    With predatory intent, teshells followed Brenns, seeing the perfect chance to stir up trouble with everyone''s


    aftention on Brenna, any mistake she made would be exposed to the pub the worst possible way


    If something happened, Brenns would never be able to face anyone again Isabe and Noale exchanged looks. And then, teabe walked to follow Brenna


    Out of nowhere, Audrey stepped in front of lesbe, het voice cold as she asked, ''And where do you think


    you''re going


    Isabe put on an innocent expression and said, "I was just about to go and exin Brenna''s experiences with the Barrett family, so everyone could better understand her background. "


    Audrey didn''t like Isabe, especially after the Barrett family had just tried to kick Brenna out earlier. She


    didn''t think Isabe was smart or kind.


    Audrey firmly said, "You''re staying here." She then pulled Isabe back towards the crowd.


    Clearly annoyed, Isabe said, "What''s the problem? I''m just trying to help everyone understand Brenna better


    Isn''t that a good thing? Don''t you want her to do well? You''re so malicious."


    Rosie quickly approached, pretending to be concerned. "What''s going on here?" she asked.


    Despite her question, she was fully aware of what was happening.


    Isabe pouted. "I just wanted to take the stage and introduce Brenna, but Audrey wouldn''t let me," she said.


    Rosie turned to Audrey with a faint smile. "Why not let her? What harm could it do?" she said.


    Audrey responded with a dismissive snort, "The event''s agenda was fixed well in advance. We''re not making


    Rosie''s voice stayed calm and gentle. "Come on, it''s not that serious. Let her go up there."


    Isabe shed a sly grin at Audrey as she straightened her skirt and made her way toward the stage.


    Audrey narrowed her eyes and followed, deliberately stepping on the carpet and wrinkling it.


    Unaware of the carpet''s misalignment, Isabe stumbled and fell spectacrly,nding face-first. In the process, her dress slipped down, and her padded bra fell out, making her chestpletely exposed in front of everyone.


    "Wow-"


    "Oh my God..."


    "Look how t she is."


    A wave of astonishment swept through the crowd.


    Audrey paused to ensure the crowd witnessed Isabe''s disheveled state before she approached.


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    Chapter 82 Embarrassing Herself In Front Of Everyone


    She said to Isabe, "You were warned not to go up, yet you wouldn''t listen. Now, you''ve embarrassed yourself


    in front of everyone."


    Looking down, Isabe saw her exposed chest, heard the surroundingughter, and felt a deep flush of


    humiliation.


    Quickly covering her chest, she stood and hurried away, her head bowed in embarrassment.


    "Completely useless. She couldn''t even handle a simple task!" Rosie muttered


    under her breath, her anger clear


    as she watched Isabe hurry away.

 Chapter 83

    Chapter 83 She''ll End Up Taking Everything From...


    On stage, Brenna exchanged a look with Audrey and then coldly watched Isabe walk away, clearly not intending to follow up on the incident.


    Alec, Ruby, and Mack all witnessed Isabe''s embarrassing moment and felt ashamed for her. They averted their gazes, pretending not to see her disgrace.


    The group felt deeply embarrassed on her behalf, internally criticizing Isabe for her carelessness in falling and causing a scene. Why hadn''t she been more cautious?


    It seemed unbelievable that such a major mistake could happen at such a critical moment.


    Isabe appeared tock experience and seemed unable to manage the pressures of such a grand event.


    Meanwhile, Brennamanded the stage with elegance, her delivery smooth and assured. She was undoubtedly the highlight of the evening.


    Ethan, seated prominently in the audience, was captivated by Brenna''s voice, considering it the most enchanting sound he had ever heard.


    As Brenna scanned the crowd, her eyes briefly connected with Ethan''s before she quickly diverted her gaze.


    Ethan experienced a hint of disappointment, feeling overlooked by Brenna; to him, she did not see him as


    someone she was going to marry.


    Fingering the engagement ring he had prepared in his pocket, he felt his nerves fray. Despite rehearsing his proposal repeatedly at home, he found it difficult to bring himself to do it.


    Brenna''s speech soon concluded, and the room burst into apuse.


    In the midst of the pping, Ethan confidently approached the stage, knelt on one knee, and presented the


    engagement ring to Brenna.


    "Brenna, will you marry me?" he said.


    Caughtpletely off guard, Brenna looked at Ethan, uncertainty flickering across her face as she wondered whether she should extend her hand to him.


    This man stood as the most sessful and aplished person in the world, the wealthiest man alive.


    On top of that, his eyes were brimming with love for her.


    Many women admired and chased after him, but his heart remained devoted to her.


    Brenna felt touched, yet romantically indifferent toward Ethan. She was conflicted about epting his proposal.


    Chapter 83 Shell End Up Taking Everything From You


    She was at a loss for what to do.


    Rejecting Ethan in public might embarrass him. But she didn''t want to ept his proposal because she didn''t have any feelings for him.


    What was her best course of action?


    Seeking guidance, Brenna looked to her parents.


    Giselle softly advised, "Trust your heart, dear."


    Ethan, interpreting Brenna''s hesitation as shyness, gently took her hand and slid the ring onto her finger.


    Brenna attempted to withdraw her hand, only to find Ethan''s grip firm, their fingers tightly intertwined, leaving her unable to pull away.


    From her seat in the audience, Rosie watched the scene in disbelief. Ethan''s swift and romantic proposal to


    Brenna had taken her by surprise.


    She had subtly expressed her interest in Ethan several times, yet he had never responded.


    She had harbored no illusions about Ethan proposing to her; she had simply hoped for a nce, a touch, or a


    shared moment.


    What she had yearned for, Brenna had seemingly achieved without effort, and now, Brenna even appeared


    reluctant to ept it.


    Rosie''s gaze bore into Brenna, filled with envy and anger.


    The audience erupted in thunderous apuse.


    With her hand firmly in Ethan''s grasp, Brenna feltpelled to agree. She faced Ethan, her expression cold.


    Ethan looked at Brenna with evident love, his smile radiating happiness.


    The audience was taken aback to see the typically reserved Ethan so openly smitten, and their cheers grew


    louder.


    Rosie, unable to conceal her dismay, turned to Audrey with a desperate, questioning look. "Ethan was meant to be with you. Are you really going to let Brenna steal him away?" she said.


    Audrey maintained herposure, seemingly unaffected by Rosie''s words. Rosie watched the stage bitterly and warned Audrey, "If you continue to let Brenna get her way, she''ll end up taking everything from you."


    Audrey replied with detachment, "You''re wrong. I''m not letting her take anything from me. I''m simply uninterested in Ethan. I already have a boyfriend. Why don''t you just say it if you like Ethan? What''s the point of scheming in secret? Do you think we haven''t noticed you badmouthing Brenna in the group chat on purpose? Do you really think any of us will believe you and that we''re so easily deceived? Aunt Giselle and Uncle Shepard have been good to you, they won''t be pleased if they learn of your actions,"


    Rosie, realizing her attempt to manipte Audrey against Brenna had failed, withdrew from the argument. "Keep out of my business. If you say something to anyone about this, I will not let you off easily."


    00 10


    Audrey''s response was cold. "Is that so? Well, I''m curious to see what you would do to me."


    After the speeches, Brenna and her parents descended from the stage to mingle with the attendees.


    Ethan stayed by Brenna''s side as she navigated interactions with Shirie''s affluentmunity. Brenna had to maintain her smile, and gradually, she felt tired to keep her smile.


    Ethan eagerly introduced his best friend, Jayceon Russell, to Brenna.


    When Brenna heard the name, her demeanor changed, and she said to Jayceon in a sharp voice, "You''re Jayceon Russell?"


    Brenna frowned. The fact that Ethan was close to someone like Jayceon made her question his character as well. Without hesitation, she yanked her arm free from Ethan''s and dramatically slipped off the ring on her hand, tossing it at him. Her voice was cold as ice. "Of course. I know him. I could recognize him anywhere."


    Jayceon, perceptive as ever, had already picked up on the hostility in her eyes. Under normal circumstances, he would have confronted anyone speaking to him that way. But this was different-Brenna was Ethan''s fianc¨¦e, the daughter of the influential Harper family. He had to tread carefully.


    "Miss Harper, have I done anything to offend you?" he asked cautiously.


    Brenna scoffed, her eyes burning with anger and disdain, "Ellie Moore. Remember that name? Have you ever once wondered about how she has been all these years?"


    She instinctively reached for her phone to show him pictures of Ellie and her son. But then, she remembered -she was in an evening gown with no pockets. Her phone wasn''t with her.


    Her cold stare drilled into Jayceon, seeing him as nothing more than a heartless


    jerk.


    Jayceon''s confident smirk faded in an instant. The carefree air around him disappeared as his expression stiffened. With a frown, he shoved the woman he was with aside, stepping closer to Brenna. "Where is Ellie?"


    he asked.


    Brenna took satisfaction in his reaction. ¡°I have no idea. You seem to be enjoying yourself just fine with other


    women, so why are you even asking about her now? What does she mean to you anyway?" she said.


    Ethan was puzzled. He was well aware that Jayceon had once been deeply in love with a woman who had mysteriously disappeared. For years, Jayceon had spared no effort in searching for that woman, asking his people to look for her all over the world, yet no trace of her had ever surfaced.


    Over the years, Jayceon had been with many women, but each one bore some resemnce to that woman- whether it was in their eyes, the shape of their nose, the curve of their lips, or the way they carried themselves.


    "Brenna, if you know something about that woman, just tell him," Ethan said gently.


    Brenna red at him. "I do not know anything!"


    Without sparing Ethan another nce, she strode away to join her parents and brothers as they greeted guests.


    The woman beside Jayceon took the opportunity to approach him again, her voice soft and coy. "Jayceon..."


    "Get lost," Jayceon snapped, his tone low and menacing. The woman stiffened before quickly walking away in


    defeat.


    Jayceon looked both frustrated and desperate. But beneath the pain, a spark of


    hope ignited in his eyes. Turning to Ethan, he said urgently, "She must know where Ellie is. You have to help me ask her about her


    whereabouts."

 Chapter 84

    Chapter 84 Remember


    That Name


    Jayceon was dressed in a perfectly tailored blue suit, radiating an air of refinement. His thick, dark brows framed a pair of striking eyes. His nose was well-defined, and his lips carried an undeniable allure. A charming, almost disarming smile rested on his face. He was nearly the same height as Ethan-tall andmanding-


    effortlessly standing out in any crowd.


    There was no denying his maic presence. Even Brenna had to admit that he looked even more polished and attractive in person than in the photos. It was no surprise her friend, Ellie Moore, had willingly had a child with


    him.


    Looking at him now, Brenna believed he seemed unaware that he had already be a father.


    The woman at his side was breathtaking, exuding a natural elegance. Her expressive eyes lingered on Brenna with quiet admiration. She wore a crystal- studded blue gown that entuated her slender figure, her curves


    impossible to ignore as she leaned into Jayceon.


    The woman''s beauty was undeniable, and even Brenna had to acknowledge her striking figure.


    Jayceon rested an arm around the woman''s shoulders, his eyes soft with affection.


    Watching them, Brenna couldn''t help but think-this man hadpletely forgotten about Ellie.


    Sensing her piercing stare, Jayceon looked at Brenna with mild surprise. "Miss Harper, have we met before? Why the hostility?" he asked.


    Brenna grew irritated as memories of Ellie''s hardships rushed back. Alone in Norview, pregnant and struggling to raise a child without support, Ellie had endured so much. She had bnced work and motherhood with no one to lean on. Brenna could feel the weight of her struggles.


    And Jayceon? He had likely been living carefreely with another woman.


    At that moment, there was no doubt in Brenna''s mind-Jayceon was the father of Ellie''s child. She had seen Ellie''s son before. The resemnce was unmistakable-Jayceon and Ellie''s son looked so alike.


    ring at Jayceon, Brenna said bluntly, "Mr. Russell, I believe you''ve been with so many women already. The


    woman beside you is your recent fling?"


    The room fell silent. The gathered guests-many familiar with both Jayceon and Ethan-were taken aback by Brenna''s directness. All eyes turned toward them, eager to witness what would unfold next.


    Jayceon''s reputation as a notorious yboy was no secret in high society. He had a way of making the women around him feel special, but just as easily, he could discard them without a second thought


    Ethan, puzzled by Brenna''s hostility toward Jayceon, turned to her. "You know him?" he asked.

 Chapter 85

    Chapter 85 Are You Certain


    About This


    In the restroom.


    Isabe''s gaze was cold as she scrutinized her image in the mirror: swollen eyes, bruised lips, and tousled hair marred her appearance.


    Once again, she adjusted her strapless gown, which felt dangerously loose as though it could slip off at any


    moment.


    Tears streamed down her face uncontrobly. She believed she had been humiliated today.


    All of Shirie''s elite had seen her disheveled state, every one of them.


    The embarrassment was so acute that she doubted she could ever face them again. Her carefully nned


    schemes had disintegrated before she could even act on them.


    The cause of her fall still puzzled her; she had been walking perfectly fine until she tripped over the hem of her


    dress.


    As she covered her face and wept, she was unaware of the eyes that had been observing her for some time.


    "Do you know why you fell earlier?" Denis Wagner asked, a mischievous sparkle in his eyes as he touched his chin, observing Isabe''s elegant yet troubled form, his lips curling with a hint of desire.


    Startled, Isabe instantly stopped crying. Reflected in the mirror was Denis'' somewhat sleazy expression. He was a man in his thirties, slightly shorter and heavier than her, with in features and an unsettling gaze.


    Still, Isabe suppressed her disdain. Offending Denis was not something she or the Barrett family could afford.


    Denis'' short, strong figure stood there, and while Isabe had no affection for Denis, she suspected his presence here was not coincidental. Obliged by social norms, she wiped her tears and replied, "I simply caught. my dress with my foot. Did you need something, Mr. Wagner?"


    Her tear-streaked face and evident vulnerability intrigued Denis.


    With a soft chuckle, Denis stepped closer and, with undue familiarity, stroked her bare shoulder.


    A surge of revulsion hit Isabe, and she instinctively recoiled.


    She believed Denis was even less appealing than Jordy.


    "Please, Mr. Wagner, don''t touch me," Isabe said, backing up until she was cornered against the bathroom door, trapped with no escape route. She cast him a pitiful nce while keeping an eye on the door, silently praying for someone to enter, someone she could signal for help. But no one came.


    Denis felt smug. He believed her avoidance without calling for help suggested she was just putting on an act


    An in


    Perhaps she was even hoping he would touch her more.


    He let out a chuckle, feigning sympathy. He said, "I witnessed it myself. Audrey was the one who jerked the carpet. That''s why you tripped and then caught your dress, revealing more than you intended..."


    He audaciously reached towards Isabe''s chest.


    Isabe''s face nched with feat, and she cried out, "Mr. Wagner, please, stop!"


    Ignoring her pleas, Denis pulled her into his arms, holding her firmly. "Stick with me, and I''ll ensure your revenge. The Harper family is nothing. Audrey and Brenna are easy to deal with. Just tell me who you need to


    deal with, and I''ll handle them for you."


    Isabe fought back with all her strength but was unable to free herself. She took a deep breath to gather herposure. "We''ve only just met. Don''t you think this is rushing things? Mr. Wagner, I need some time to


    consider what you said."


    Denis finally let her go, stepping back and pulling his phone from his jacket. "Let''s swap contact details. Should you ever find yourself in a bind, feel free to reach out to me," he said.


    Isabe mulled over her situation. She realized that Denis'' sudden interest in her wasn''t born out of genuine feelings. He likely wanted something from her, or maybe he was merely captivated by her looks.


    If that was his angle, she wasn''t scared. She could leverage his interest to her advantage.


    Given the Barrett family''s struggles against the more influential Harper family and considering Ethan''s indifference towards her, she believed Denis could prove useful.


    With support from the Wagner family, perhaps the Barrett family could improve their standing.


    A sense of relief washed over Isabe as she took out her phone to exchange numbers with Denis. "Mr. Wagner, are you certain about this?" she asked.


    Denis was unfazed, caressing her again. "As long as you meet my needs, I''ll support you in any way you require,"


    he said.


    He noticed a tear in her dress and immediately made a call to have someone fetch a new gown from his home.


    This gesture slowly dissolved the embarrassment Isabe had felt at the banquet, bolstering her confidence.


    Shortly, someone arrived with a beige gown far more opulent than Isabe''s original one,plete withmbskin shoes and a gemstone ne.


    After a quick makeup refresh, Isabe returned to the banquet looking entirely transformed.


    Denis, however, didn''t linger with Isabe. He rejoined his friends, talking with them.


    After a while, his friends all turned their gaze to Isabe.


    "Why bother with her? She''s hardly your type, given her figure," said a man in a white suit.


    Another man chuckled. "Perhaps Denis has a preference we''re unaware of," he said.


    The man in the white suit said, "Maybe he wants her to make some changes with her body. With all the advancements in cosmetic surgery these days, adjustments wouldn''t be too hard, would they?"


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 Chapter 86

    Chapter 86 Apologize To


    You


    Brenna endured the entire evening in elegant attire and high heels, maintaining a courteous smile throughou


    Ethan was a constant presence at her side, often stepping in to drink for her.


    Despite his attentiveness, Brenna remained distant, skeptical of his motives and livening with to jaye


    hi?n


    charming yet not to be trusted. She doubted the sincerity of Ethan''s interest, suspecting if win maraty


    superficial.


    She adopted a cold demeanor, deliberately keeping Ethan at arm''s length and avoiding conversation with Him


    Ethan, for his part, was not upset. Throughout the evening, he patiently sought a chance to exin himself ta


    her.


    As the event drew to a close, guests started to leave. Shepard, Giselle, and their sons were at the doorway


    saying their goodbyes.


    With the hall emptying, Brenna finally seized the opportunity to rx and have something to eat.


    Her hunger had reached its peak.


    No sooner had she began her meal than two figures approached. Turning, Brenna saw Sylvie and Vivian, both


    exquisitely attired.


    Their arrival jogged her memory; she had almost forgotten they were attendees.


    Rosie was also dining at the samerge round table. She offered a warm smile to Brenna and said, "Brema,


    Sylvie and Vivian came here specifically to offer you their apologies."


    Brenna struggled to remember any wrongdoing by them. She wasn''t one to harbor resentments; she preferred


    to address conflicts on the spot.


    "Why exactly are they apologizing to me?" Brenna only gave them a fleeting look before returning to her meal.


    Sylvie, observing Brenna''s dismissive demeanor, bristled with annoyance. Brenna''sck of regard for her audi her family irked her. Even though Brenna was from the powerful Harper family, her family was equally influential in Shirie. She thought to herself that if Brenna continued to look down on her, she would make


    sure


    she regretted it.


    Despite her irritation, Sylvie maintained a charming smile. She was aware that Brenna''s potential role within the Harper family would likely eclipse that of Rosie''s, granting her significant sway in the Harper Group''s dealings.


    She understood the dangers of crossing Brenna, whose reputation for merciless tactics could spell wouble for


    her family.


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    Chapter 87 How Can You Treat Us Like This-


    Alec and Ruby scrutinized Brenna meticulously. After two decades of living with Brenna, they were adept at


    interpreting her facial expressions.


    Brenna''s current aloofness and disdain were unmistakable. Throughout her life, whether faced with reprimands or corporal punishment, she had always maintained a resolute silence.


    To the couple, Brenna''s cold demeanor had be familiar, hardly warranting a second thought. Yet, at the dinner table with the Harpers, they felt sidelined as the family engaged either amongst themselves or with their meals, paying little heed to them.


    They were the ones who had yed significant roles in Brenna''s upbringing, yet they had encountered a cold


    reception.


    Throughout the banquet, the Barrett family trio had stayed close to the Harpers. Whenever the Harpers introduced Brenna to other wealthy families, Alec and Ruby eagerly greeted them, introducing themselves, but the wealthy guests treated them with cold indifference.


    It felt as though they were being looked down on.


    It was downright disrespectful!


    Did the Harpers not appreciate them for rasing their daughter?


    The Harper family members'' patience dwindled, and their smiles hardened. Inwardly, they condemned the Harper family, wishing they could tell everyone about how ungrateful they were.


    "Brenna," Ruby said once more, her smile vanished, her patience at an end. Yet, Brenna still dismissed her with


    a cold expression.


    Ruby''s anger surged. "Brenna!"


    She nudged Brenna, her irritation evident. She eximed, "Are you even listening? How can you be so indifferent? We raised you! Without us, you wouldn''t have lived to this day. How can you treat us like this?"


    Alec''s patience had also evaporated. He fully supported Ruby''s outburst. In his view, not only was Brenna''s behavior reprehensible, but the Harpers'' arrogant disy of wealth and condescending attitude towards his family alsopounded the insult.


    Mack, who had previously been standing quietly behind them, finally voiced his frustration, saying, "Brenna, we''vee to you for help. Just because the Barrett family doesn''t match the Harpers in power doesn''t mean you can ignore us. You are being so ungrateful!"


    "You''re calling me ungrateful?" Brenna responded coldly, confronting him directly. "Why do you think that?


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    Chapter 86 Apologize To You


    Sylvie said, "During the horse race event, we acted inappropriately, thinking you weren''t truly a Harper, just an opportunist. We believed our actions were justified at that time. However, we were wrong about your status. We sincerely regret the misunderstanding and hope you can forgive us."


    Vivian, too, observed Brenna''sck of response to them, her dissatisfaction growing.


    With visible frustration, Vivian said, "We''re apologizing to you sincerely. Why are you being so dismissive?"


    Brenna continued eating gracefully. After she finished, she said, "Your apologies aren''t necessary. You''ve already faced consequences for your previous actions. If there''s nothing more, I''d appreciate if you''d leave. Our paths are unlikely to cross much in the future."


    Her response was direct, with little concern for their feelings.


    Rosie, witnessing the exchange, disapproved of Brenna''s curt dismissal. She said, "Brenna, that''s too harsh. They''re offering a sincere apology. You should ept it gracefully. To truly be a part of high society, you cannot


    afford to be so blunt. I think you owe them an apology now."


    Brenna''s lips twisted sardonically, her tone cutting as she said to Rosie, "Are you suggesting the fault lies with me for not forgiving them?"


    The three shared a look, realizing Brenna''s determination was immovable. Sylvie, ever the diplomat, said, "Miss Harper, we truly regret our actions. This setting isn''t ideal for apologies. How about we meet at the Imperial Bar tomorrow and talk? Does that work for you?"


    Brenna saw through their intentions. They were clearly eager to set up a trap for her.


    Brenna was no stranger to a challenge. With a business meeting with a client from Norview already scheduled in that bar the next day, she believed she had time to find out what Sylvie and Vivian were up to.


    "Okay, I''ll see you tomorrow afternoon," Brenna agreed nonchntly.


    Sylvie''s smile was restrained, her eyes cold. "We''ll be there waiting. Don''t bete. We promise to make it up to


    you," she said.


    Once Sylvie and Vivian had secured Brenna''s attendance, they soon departed.


    Atst, seeing their opportunity, Alec and Ruby quickly took the seats next to Brenna, while Mack, without a chair, stood behind them.


    With an overly ingratiating grin, Alec said to Brenna, "Brenna, what luck you''ve had! Leaving our esteemed Barrett family to join the prestigious Harpers. We''re all so proud of you, especially after hearing about your win


    at the horse race."


    Ruby said, "It''s amazing, Brenna. After all these years of raising you, I had no clue you had such a talent for horseback riding. You''re incredibly skilled." Brenna, who had never received genuine kindness from them when she had been living with the Barrett family, found their current fawning unbearable. "Cut to the chase-what do you want?" she said coldly.


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    Chapter 87 How Can You Treat Us Like This


    You better exin yourself clearly."


    Ovee with exasperation, Mack grabbed a chair and sat down to talk to her.


    "Remember, it was our Barrett family who raised you. We provided everything- your meals, your clothes... Now that you''re in a better situation, you owe us for raising you. Your indifference is offensive. It''s time for you to repay us for raising you," Mack said.


    Hearing Mack''s bold assertion, which conveniently omitted the hardships Brenna had faced under their care, the Harper family members set aside their utensils and fixed the Barretts with hostile looks.


    The intensity of their stares caused Alec and Ruby to shift ufortably, with Ruby instinctively hiding behind


    Alec.


    Brenna''s disdain was evident as she retorted, "You have the audacity to say something like that? Consider the


    life I endured. Despite my talents in design, you forced me to abandon my studies


    to contribute financially to the family. I was just a child, yet I had to be a servant in your home-did my feelings ever matter to you?"


    Her tone grew sharper, her gaze colder. "When I didn''t do things well, you beat me, scolded me, denied me food, and locked me in a dark room. Do you know how I survived that?" she said.


    She looked at the Barrett family with utter contempt and continued, "You want me to repay you for raising me? Haven''t I already done that with all the money I earned for you? Everything you enjoy the big house, your luxury lifestyle-wasn''t it all funded by my hard work? I''ve paid back any debt to you long ago." Shepard''s countenance drained of color as his anger surged. He fixed a cold gaze on the Barrett family and eximed, "Leave now! Your invitation was a courtesy due to your role in raising our daughter. However, your actions today reveal only your greed. Seeking morepensation? We already spared you the humiliation of a public dismissal earlier to preserve your dignity. Yet you dare to ask for more? How audacious!"


    Giselle''s fury matched Shepard''s. She said, "Learning of the hardships our daughter endured with you is devastating. It was a gesture of our goodwill that we haven''t sought vengeance or sought to expose you Today''s invitation was an act of grace, acknowledging your past with Brenna. Don''t mistake our kindness for weakness. Theworking opportunities you''ve had today should be considered as repayment. Our family owes you nothing now. You should leave."


    Rmended for you

 Chapter 87

    Chapter 87 How Can You Treat Us Like This-


    Alec and Ruby scrutinized Brenna meticulously. After two decades of living with Brenna, they were adept at


    interpreting her facial expressions.


    Brenna''s current aloofness and disdain were unmistakable. Throughout her life, whether faced with reprimands or corporal punishment, she had always maintained a resolute silence.


    To the couple, Brenna''s cold demeanor had be familiar, hardly warranting a second thought. Yet, at the dinner table with the Harpers, they felt sidelined as the family engaged either amongst themselves or with their meals, paying little heed to them.


    They were the ones who had yed significant roles in Brenna''s upbringing, yet they had encountered a cold


    reception.


    Throughout the banquet, the Barrett family trio had stayed close to the Harpers. Whenever the Harpers introduced Brenna to other wealthy families, Alec and Ruby eagerly greeted them, introducing themselves, but the wealthy guests treated them with cold indifference.


    It felt as though they were being looked down on.


    It was downright disrespectful!


    Did the Harpers not appreciate them for rasing their daughter?


    The Harper family members'' patience dwindled, and their smiles hardened. Inwardly, they condemned the Harper family, wishing they could tell everyone about how ungrateful they were.


    "Brenna," Ruby said once more, her smile vanished, her patience at an end. Yet, Brenna still dismissed her with


    a cold expression.


    Ruby''s anger surged. "Brenna!"


    She nudged Brenna, her irritation evident. She eximed, "Are you even listening? How can you be so indifferent? We raised you! Without us, you wouldn''t have lived to this day. How can you treat us like this?"


    Alec''s patience had also evaporated. He fully supported Ruby''s outburst. In his view, not only was Brenna''s behavior reprehensible, but the Harpers'' arrogant disy of wealth and condescending attitude towards his family alsopounded the insult.


    Mack, who had previously been standing quietly behind them, finally voiced his frustration, saying, "Brenna, we''vee to you for help. Just because the Barrett family doesn''t match the Harpers in power doesn''t mean you can ignore us. You are being so ungrateful!"


    "You''re calling me ungrateful?" Brenna responded coldly, confronting him directly. "Why do you think that?


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    Chapter 86 Apologize To You


    Sylvie said, ¡°During the horse race event, we acted inappropriately, thinking you weren''t truly a Harper, just an opportunist. We believed our actions were justified at that time. However, we were wrong about your status. We sincerely regret the misunderstanding and hope you can forgive us."


    Vivian, too, observed Brenna''sck of response to them, her dissatisfaction growing.


    With visible frustration, Vivian said, "We''re apologizing to you sincerely. Why are you being so dismissive?"


    Brenna continued eating gracefully. After she finished, she said, "Your apologies aren''t necessary. You''ve already faced consequences for your previous actions. If there''s nothing more, I''d appreciate if you''d leave. Our paths are unlikely to cross much in the future."


    Her response was direct, with little concern for their feelings.


    Rosie, witnessing the exchange, disapproved of Brenna''s curt dismissal. She said, ¡°Brenna, that''s too harsh. They''re offering a sincere apology. You should ept it gracefully. To truly be a part of high society, you cannot


    afford to be so blunt. I think you owe them an apology now."


    Brenna''s lips twisted sardonically, her tone cutting as she said to Rosie, "Are you suggesting the fault lies with me for not forgiving them?"


    The three shared a look, realizing Brenna''s determination was immovable.


    Sylvie, ever the diplomat, said, "Miss Harper, we truly regret our actions. This setting isn''t ideal for apologies. How about we meet at the Imperial Bar tomorrow and talk? Does that work for you?"


    Brenna saw through their intentions. They were clearly eager to set up a trap for her.


    Brenna was no stranger to a challenge. With a business meeting with a client from Norview already scheduled in that bar the next day, she believed she had time to find out what Sylvie and Vivian were up to.


    "Okay, I''ll see you tomorrow afternoon," Brenna agreed nonchntly.


    Sylvie''s smile was restrained, her eyes cold. "We''ll be there waiting. Don''t bete. We promise to make it up to


    you," she said.


    Once Sylvie and Vivian had secured Brenna''s attendance, they soon departed.


    Atst, seeing their opportunity, Alec and Ruby quickly took the seats next to Brenna, while Mack, without a chair, stood behind them.


    With an overly ingratiating grin, Alec said to Brenna, "Brenna, what luck you''ve had! Leaving our esteemed Barrett family to join the prestigious Harpers. We''re all so proud of you, especially after hearing about your win


    at the horse race."


    Ruby said, "It''s amazing, Brenna. After all these years of raising you, I had no clue you had such a talent for horseback riding. You''re incredibly skilled."


    Brenna, who had never received genuine kindness from them when she had been living with the Barrett family, found their current fawning unbearable. "Cut to the chase-what do you want?" she said coldly.


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    Chapter 87 How Can You Treat Us Like This


    You better exin yourself clearly."


    Ovee with exasperation, Mack grabbed a chair and sat down to talk to her. "Remember, it was our Barrett family who raised you. We provided everything- your meals, your clothes... Now that you''re in a better situation, you owe us for raising you. Your indifference is offensive. It''s time for you to repay us for raising you," Mack said.


    Hearing Mack''s bold assertion, which conveniently omitted the hardships Brenna had faced under their care, the Harper family members set aside their utensils and fixed the Barretts with hostile looks.


    The intensity of their stares caused Alec and Ruby to shift ufortably, with Ruby instinctively hiding behind


    Alec.


    Brenna''s disdain was evident as she retorted, "You have the audacity to say something like that? Consider the


    life I endured. Despite my talents in design, you forced me to abandon my studies to contribute financially to the family. I was just a child, yet I had to be a servant in your home-did my feelings ever matter to you?"


    Her tone grew sharper, her gaze colder. "When I didn''t do things well, you beat me, scolded me, denied me food, and locked me in a dark room. Do you know how I survived that?" she said.


    She looked at the Barrett family with utter contempt and continued, "You want me to repay you for raising me? Haven''t I already done that with all the money I earned for you? Everything you enjoy the big house, your luxury lifestyle-wasn''t it all funded by my hard work? I''ve paid back any debt to you long ago." Shepard''s countenance drained of color as his anger surged. He fixed a cold gaze on the Barrett family and eximed, "Leave now! Your invitation was a courtesy due to your role in raising our daughter. However, your actions today reveal only your greed. Seeking morepensation? We already spared you the humiliation of a public dismissal earlier to preserve your dignity. Yet you dare to ask for more? How audacious!"


    Giselle''s fury matched Shepard''s. She said, "Learning of the hardships our daughter endured with you is devastating. It was a gesture of our goodwill that we haven''t sought vengeance or sought to expose you Today''s invitation was an act of grace, acknowledging your past with Brenna. Don''t mistake our kindness for weakness. Theworking opportunities you''ve had today should be considered as repayment. Our family owes you nothing now. You should leave."


    Rmended for you


    VIP


    Celestial Queen:

 Chapter 88

    Chapter 88 Being Kicked


    Out


    Alec''s temper red instantly. Rising to his feet, he pointed usingly at Shepard and shouted, "Is this the so-


    called dignity of the Harper family? We took Brenna in, raised her for twenty years, and invested so much in


    her upbringing. Do you even realize how much effort we put into shaping her? No matter how she was treated,


    her sess today is because of us! Without our guidance, she wouldn''t be where she is now!"


    His whole body shook with rage. He couldn''t ept Brenna''sck of gratitude or the Harper family''s cold


    indifference toward his family. He had counted on them to elevate his family''s status, but now, that hope was gone. He had nothing to show for his efforts, and it infuriated him.


    After a pause, he continued, "Don''t think I don''t know what''s going on. I witnessed her treating Vincent with my two eyes, and Ethan is clearly interested in her. She''ll marry him and gain influence. I know she even won two billion in horse racing! Every skill she possesses, we cultivated! Her skills for car design-recognized with international awards-that''s due to our efforts! You owe us for everything we''ve done. If you refuse to pay us


    anything, we''ll make sure everyone knows just how ungrateful the Harper family is!"


    Shepard''s face turned dark. He stepped forward, grabbed Alec by the cor, and shoved him toward the door. Get out! You won''t see a single cent from us! My daughter suffered under your roof for years, and you have


    the audacity to demand money from us? Who do you think you are? Get out-all of you!"


    Without hesitation, the Harper men stepped in, forcefully escorting the Barretts out without the slightest


    concern for appearances.


    Ruby eximed, ¡°What on earth are you doing? How dare you put your hands on us? If you so much as touch us, I''ll make sure everyone in Shirie sees your true colors!"


    Alec roared in defiance, "This isn''t over! You''ll pay for this-we won''t stop until we get what we deserve!"


    The Harper women stood firm, their expressions filled with disgust toward the Barrett family.


    Standing beside Giselle, Jillian watched the scene unfold, her fury evident. She said, "I''ve never seen such a shameless family. It''s astonishing that Brenna managed to turn out well despite being raised in such an


    environment."


    Giselle, usuallyposed as a university professor, barely contained her anger. She said, "Our family will deal


    with them soon!"


    She then gently took Brenna''s hand. "You''ve endured so much, my dear," she said.


    Brenna had never shared the full extent of the struggles she had faced while studying abroad. She had only spoken about her part-time jobs and the friends she made, never mentioning how she had left home with nothing, facing unimaginable hardships alone.


    The thought filled Giselle with sorrow.


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    Chapter 88 Being Kicked Out


    Meanwhile, Rosie seized the opportunity to slip away unnoticed.


    The Barretts were forcibly kicked out of the banquet hall. The younger Harper family members took it a step further, unleashing their fury with fists and kicks. Even Ernst, who had never particrly been fond of Brenna,


    joined in


    The most relentless was Dalton. Unconcerned about his celebrity status and the fact that onlookers might take photos of him, he attacked without restraint.


    "Get lost!" Dalton spat, delivering a final kick to Mack. "Show your faces again, and we''ll make sure you regret


    it!"


    Mack bore the brunt of the assault, limping away painfully, his face bruised and bloodied.


    With no other choice, the three Barrett family members stumbled out, supporting one another as they made their way to the car. None of them noticed that Isabe was missing.


    Rosie had been waiting for them, arms crossed, watching them with barely concealed amusement. Unable to suppress her emotions, she let out a mocking chuckle.


    Mack, still seething with resentment toward the Harper family, instinctively positioned himself in front of his parents. Though furious, he remained cautious around Rosie, aware that hidden bodyguards might be nearby. "What do you want?" he asked sharply.


    Rosie smirked. "The Harper family was wrong to treat you that way. I''vee to offer an apology on their behalf." Despite her words, she sounded arrogant.


    Alec grew even more furious. "What a joke! If you really cared, why didn''t you stop them earlier? Now you show up pretending to y the kind person? Get lost!"


    Rosie, unimpressed by theirck of gratitude, pped Alec across the face. "Don''t be foolish. I''m only here because I believe you''re still worth something. Keep insulting me, and I promise the Barrett family won''t be


    able to survive in Shirie," she said.


    Mack stood there, ring at Rosie. But as he pondered Rosie''s words, he caught


    a glimpse of something. Was she actually offering them a lifeline?


    He said, "What''s your game? Our family is already on the verge of copse. Business is nonexistent, and even the contracts we secured have been revoked. Are you saying you''ll help us?"


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 Chapter 89

    Chapter 89 If You Don''t Want To Go Bankrupt,...


    The Barretts doubted Rosie''s good intentions, firmly believing that every Harper family member harbored deep


    resentment towards them, wishing to see them destroyed. They were convinced that Rosie''s visit was not to


    help them but to further degrade them.


    With malice, Ruby said, "You''re that cursed orphan whose existence caused her parents'' death!"


    Rosie recoiled from these harsh words. Not one to ignore such insults and knowing the Barretts had already


    faced numerous hits, she felt that a direct confrontation wouldn''t significantly alter their plight.


    Thus, she decisively grabbed Mack and pulled him aside. Taken aback by Rosie''s assertiveness, Mack, already


    aching, lost his bnce and stumbled easily to the side.


    At the next moment, Rosie pped Ruby multiple times, her face disying intense ferocity. "What right do


    you have to say something like that about me? Nobody has ever dared to insult me to my face!" she eximed


    in anger.


    Consumed by fury, Rosie recalled the painful memory of her parents'' fat


    ident just after her birth-a car


    crash that imed the lives of her parents and nanny, leaving her the lone survivor.


    Sometimes, she tortured herself with the guilt of potentially bringing bad luck to her family, a notion that


    haunted her.


    Her family''s prestigious social standing usually prevented such usations from being voiced openly. But today,


    Ruby had said that.


    In a rage, Rosie pinned Ruby down and struck her repeatedly, letting out her frustration until the physical pain


    in her hand stopped her.


    Ruby''s screams echoed through the area and shocked the people in the hotel, yet the staff and security turned a blind eye, effectively allowing Rosie to continue without intervention.


    When Rosie finally stopped, she rose from where Rubyy and shot a


    contemptuous re at Alec and Mack, saying, "Cowards!"


    Ruby, Alec''s wife and Mack''s mother, had just been subjected to a severe beating, and yet, neither of the men had intervened.


    Such behavior was truly reprehensible.


    Perhaps Alec and Mack were too intimidated by Rosie''s fury sparked by Ruby''sments to step in.


    At that moment, Mack, seething with anger, confronted Rosie, saying, "Miss Harper, you''ve humiliated us today. Remember, a lot can change over time. I don''t believe the Harpers will always be on top."


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    Chapter 89 If You Don''t Want To Go Bankrupt You Better Listen to Me


    Rosie viewed the Barretts with disdain, reflecting on how Mack and Alec''s previous inaction had given her the opportunity to beat Ruby.


    What was the point of Mack''s threat now?


    Rosie''s response was cold, her smile chilling. "If you don''t want to go bankrupt, you''d better listen to me," she


    said.


    Alec assisted Ruby in standing up, and the couple remained silent, focusing intently on what their son would


    say


    Mack viewed Rosie aspletely irrational. He was baffled by her intentions-did she intend to dismantle the Barrett family or was she offering an odd form of help?


    "What is it that you actually want?" he asked.


    Rosie walked over, holding out her hand, and said, "Give me your phone so we can exchange contact information. I''ll send work your way when it''s suitable, but you must adhere to mymands. If not, you''ll find yourself bankrupt and without a home."


    "Really? That''s hard to believe!" Mack responded skeptically, yet he still pulled out his phone and shared his


    contact information.


    Rosie tapped Mack''s cheek with disdain, a smirk on her face. "Just wait and see." With that, she walked back towards the Peace Hotel.


    Only then did Ruby begin to cry out loudly, "She hit me!"


    Alec and Mack shared a look before both spat in the direction Rosie had just left.


    Alec said in anger, "There''s no making peace with the Harpers! One day, I''ll bring them down!"


    Mack, seething with resentment, muttered under his breath, "Brenna will get what''sing to her!"


    Rather than heading home, the wounded family proceeded directly to the hospital, where they remained for


    several days to recover.


    Brenna, unbothered by these events, was woken the following morning by a reminder from Sylvie to meet at the Imperial Bar in the evening.


    After ending the call, she went back to bed, not rising until the afternoon.


    Upon waking again, Brenna settled at the dining table, where she sifted through a pile of messages from Ethan, several friend requests, and new chat group notifications, only managing to eat after addressing these digital


    demands.


    Rosie also got up around this time. She approached Brenna and said calmly, "I was wrong about you earlier. Let''s put it behind us. It''s just a small misunderstanding."


    Brenna, dismissing the gesture, responded coolly, "There''s no need for you to put on an act like this in front of


    1. me. I don''t think we need to be friends."


    Rosie had said it was just a small understanding? Brenna had never bought into Rosie''s ims of misunderstanding; she saw it as Rosie''s inability to ept the special ce she held in Shepard''s and Giselle''s


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    0011


    hearts.


    "Why can''t you be a little nicet?" Rosie couldn''t stand Brenna''s arrogance. It was obvious to her that Brenna wanted to win over the Harper family and stay, but her forced indifference made here off as insincere,


    which irritated Rosie

 Chapter 90

    Chapter 90 Hey, Pretty Girl


    Brenna shot Rosie a sharp nce, her expression void of wench" you want me to sp things, I can Just stop plotting against me behind my back, and we can live together in peace," she vah


    For a split second, Rosie felt exposed, as if Brenna could see right through her. A ways of utede ans on her Could Brenna already know about her secret n of using the Barrett family against her?


    Rosie shook off the thought and quickly denied it, saying, "when have I ever plotted against you behind you back? Don''t just throw around baseless usations"


    "You know in your heart whether I''ve used you wrongly or not," Brenna sald calmly.


    Without another word, she turned her attention to the flood of new messages from her contacts, ignotting Rodepletely.


    Soon after, Rosie finished her meal. Bored, she grabbed her bag and headed out.


    At exactly four in the afternoon, Brenna arrived at the Imperial Bar.


    Nestled in the heart of Shirie''s busiest district, the Imperial Bar was one of the most prestigious venues in the city, renowned for its impable service and elite clientele


    Spanning ninevishly decorated floors, the bar was known for its exclusivity and steep prices. Entry was restricted to members. Non-members could only drink on the first floor, while members had ess to the


    upper levels.


    Membership was divided into three tiers: basic, premium, and ck-gold. A basic membership required a deposit of one hundred thousand, while premium demanded one million. And ck-gold status wasn''t something money alone could buy.


    Rosie, Sylvie, and Vivian were all premium members and patrons who had long established themselves as


    regrs.


    As Brenna stepped inside, her eyesnded on Sylvie and Vivian standing by the elevator. Both were dressed to impress, exuding allure. Their deliberate disy of their figure made Brenna nce at them a couple more


    times.


    Sylvie greeted Brenna with a warm smile. "Right on time," she said.


    Though her tone was friendlier than before, there was still a flicker of disdain in her gaze. To Silvie, Brenna was naive and unfamiliar with high society.


    Inside the elevator, Sylvie wasted no time exining the rules. She said, "This ce runs on a strict membership system. Everyone here is either rich or powerful, so mind your manners. One wrong move, and you might offend someone important. Even I have people here I can''t afford to cross, so be careful."


    Vivian exchanged a knowing nce with Sylvie. Both of them wore smug expressions. In their minds, once


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    00:11


    Chapter 10 My Pay Get


    Rome, Syhrie, and Vivian were all premium members and patrons who had long established themselves as


    regrs


    As Brenna stepped inside, her eyesnded on Syhine and Virum standing by the elevator. Both were dressed to impress, exuding allore. Their deliberate disy of ther figury made Brenna nce at them a couple more


    Syine greeted Brenna with a warm smile. Right on time, "she said.


    Though her tone was friendher than before, there was still a flicker of disc in her gare. To Silvie, Brenna was


    naive and unfamiliar with high society.


    Inside the elevator, Sylve wasted no time exining the rules. She said, "This ce runs on a strict membership system. Everyone here is either rich or powerful, so mind your manners. One wrong move, and you might offend someone important. Even I have people here I can''t afford to cross, so be careful" Vivian exchanged a knowing nce with Sybne. Both of them wore smug expressions. In their minds, once Brenna stepped into this world, she would be entirely at their mercy and with no way to call for help from the Harper family.


    They saw Brenna quietly observe the surroundings. It was clear this was her first time here, which only made


    things easier for them.


    Vivian chuckled and tried to appear as friendly as she could. She said, "We will introduce you to a friendter. He''s well-connected in both legal and less official circles in Shire. If you ever need anything, you can go to him." "His name is Joonas Fowler, the owner of this bar, Sylvie said. "He is generous and enjoys making new friends." Brenna gave a casual nod. She wasn''t nave Joonas was likely a gang leader, and she knew Sylvie and Vivian


    had ulterior motives. Nheless, she ened unfazed


    She had faced far more dangerous people Joonas was nothing more than a small time yer inparison Momentster, they arrived at a prate sute. The thick carpeting in the hallway muffled their footsteps Sylvie pressed a hand against the door and pushed it open.


    The suite wasvishly decorated, its walls bred with soundproof materials. Music yed inside, yet not a


    sound could be heard outside


    Under the dim lighting, a group of young men and women lounged in colorful designer outfits. Their faces were familiar. Most belonged to second ter or hand- ter wealthy families in Share


    Several of them had attended Brenns''s wee party the night before. Now, those same young men sat back, cigarettes in hand. There was an unwastakable edge to them-reckless, dangerous. Hardly goodpany- Just then, a red- haired man strolled up to Brenta. He took a slow drag of his cigarette before blowing a stream of smoke directly into her face. "Hey, pretty gri," he said. Brenna''s gaze turned ky, but she said nothing


    The man let out a low chuckle. "Pretty yet so cold, he remarked


    The room erupted inughter


    Sylvie stepped in with feigned concern. She said, "Come on, don''t be like that. She''s new to bars just a sheltered girl from a good family. Don''t scare her."


    With that, she and Vivian guided Brenna onto the sofa the red-haired man had just vacated.


    The man picked up a bottle from the table, casually poured a full ss, and then handed it to Brenna.


    "Miss Harper, right? Drink this, and I''ll protect you from now on," he said.


    Brenna studied him carefully. There was something familier about him, though she couldn''t quite ce where


    she had seen him before.


    Het gaze facked to Syhole in silent question


    Sylvie smiled and introduced the man in a coquettish voice, "Let me introduce you


    to him. This is Mr. Han


    Moreno, heir to the Moreno family.


    *


    ãyá˜


    Chapter 90 Hey Pretty Girl


    Recognition clicked in Brenna''s mind. So this man was Thiago''s younger brother.


    No wonder she found him


    familiar


    Rmended for you


    Celestial Queen: Revenge Is Sw...


    After being kicked

 Chapter 91

    Chapter 91 Is This Your Idea Of An Apology


    Brenna scanned the room. Rosie was nowhere to be seen, or perhaps she was lurking in the shadows. This was


    the perfect opportunity to watch her be humiliated, and Rosie wouldn''t pass that up.


    Her gaze swept over the group. Seven young men, four women, and herself. Twelve in total.


    The table was littered with empty bottles, but what stood out most were the small bags in the center-one filled with white powder, another with yellow pills, and a third with blue pills.


    Brenna had worked in bars while studying in Norview. She knew exactly what those substances were. Harmless was thest thing they were. One hit, and a person''s life could spiral beyond repair.


    A man with dyed yellow hair, probably in his mid-twenties, caught her attention. He was undeniably handsome, with a mischievous charm. However, that charm faded as she watched him casually sprinkle the white powder onto his cigar.


    Brenna recognized him at once. He was Brandon Vargas, the son of Shirie''s deputy mayor.


    He was seated at the heart of the group, clearly thriving on attention. His gaze roamed over Brenna with unmistakable intent. With a smirk, he whistled boldly and said without shame, "Nice figure. But I wonder if you''re as exciting in bed." The words were vile, but Brenna refused to give him the reaction he wanted. She merely cast him a brief, indifferent nce before looking away.


    Sylvie and Vivian, however, noticed Brandon''sment and exchanged knowing smiles. The former seized the moment to introduce him to Brenna. "Brandon is the deputy mayor''s son. Even the Harper family''s business relies on his father in some ways, Miss Harper, you''d do well to show some respect to him. Wouldn''t want what you do to affect your family, now would you?"


    Brenna turned to Sylvie with a look of pure disdain. "You seem quite familiar with him," she said.


    Sylvie instantly caught the insinuation and stiffened. "I am not exactly close to him," she said.


    The next moment, she turned her attention to the untouched drink in Han''s hand. Seeing that Brenna had no interest in drinking, she took the ss herself and held it to Brenna with a sweet smile. "I told you, I invited you here tonight to apologize to you formally. Let''s drink and forget about the past." She was also holding a ss for herself. Brenna epted the ss of drink from her.


    Vivian, seeing that, also held up a ss of drink. She and Sylvie clinked their sses with Brenna''s.


    "If you don''t drink, it means you haven''t forgiven us," Vivian said with a smile, seeing that Brenna didn''t move.


    Displeased with Brenna''s refusal to cooperate, Han strolled over to the table, plucked a blue pill from a bag.


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    0011


    and casually dropped it into her ss. He said, "Here, add this. Drink it, and you''ll feel amazing"


    A slow, calcted grin spread across his face.


    Brenna watched as the blue pill bubbled and dissolved. Back in Norview, substances like these weremon in bars. They were loosely regted and treated casually by the local youth.


    But Brenna knew better. These pills were highly addictive. Too much of them could push a person into a dangerous, manic state-or worse, leave them unconscious,


    She met Han''s gaze resolutely and said, "I''m not drinking this."


    A chill settled over the group as everyone''s face turned cold.


    Sylvie immediately expressed her displeasure, saying, "So you refuse to forgive us, Miss Harper? We invited you here in good faith, with witnesses, to offer a sincere apology. And yet, you won''t even show us the courtesy of


    a drink?"


    "Do you think you''re above us? Do you look down on the Morrison family?" Vivian questioned.


    "Yeah, what''s the deal, big shot? You think you''re better than me? If you''re too good for a drink, why even


    But before he could do that, Brenna lifted the ss and threw its contents straight into his face. "Is this how


    you apologize? By forcing drinks on me?" she said coldly.


    Wine dripped down Han''s face, seeping into his floral shirt. He turned to the group on the sofa, and their


    barely concealed smirks and amused nces fueled his rage. No one had ever dared humiliate him like this.


    With a dark expression, he grabbed another ss, this time dropping in five blue pills. He set it down in front


    of Brenna and dered, "Drink this, or you won''t be leaving here alive tonight."


    But Brenna didn''t flinch. She wasn''t intimidated. In fact, a rush of excitement coursed through her. It had been


    a long time since someone had the audacity to challenge her like this.


    She turned her gaze to Sylvie and Vivian and sneered, "So this is your idea of an apology?"


    "So what if it is?" Vivian said. "This ismon among the wealthy. You''ll get used to it. If you want to fit in


    with the elite, this is how things work. Otherwise, no one will want to be around you."


    Brenna let out a cold chuckle, then picked up the heavily spiked drink. But instead of drinking it, she extended


    it toward Vivian. "You drink it first, and then I will," she said.


    Vivian''s expression changed slightly. She might have been friendly with these unsavory types, but she wasn''t


    stupid. She knew what those pills could do. If she drank it, once the pills took effect, she might pass out.


    "I won''t drink it," she said, reclining.


    She then lifted her own ss and added, "I''ll stick to this."

 Chapter 92

    Chapter 92 You''ll Regret


    This


    "Your apology doesn''t sound convincing." With a swift motion, Brenna pinched Vivian''s check and forced wine.


    down her throat.


    Reacting quickly, Sylvie put down her ss and rushed to separate Brenna from Vivian.


    Han also joined in to help Vivian, so she managed to ingest only a small amount.


    "What are you doing?" Vivian eximed, her anger noticeable. "We extended an invitation in good faith, and


    this is your response?"


    Brenna, undeterred by the hostility, knew from her tough days in Norview that showing fear now would only lead to more trouble. The toughs she had dealt with there were far more intimidating.


    Surveying the encroaching crowd, her face set defiantly, Brenna dered, "Upset over this? If you''re going to apologize to me, do it right. I''ll match whatever you drink, but beware-any mischief, and you''ll regret it."


    Brandon apuded and approached Brenna with a sneer. "Impressive courage. We''ll y by your rules, Miss Harper. Consider me intrigued."


    While Sylvie and Vivian shot Brandon disapproving looks, they held back their objections.


    Yet, they hadn''t abandoned their n to slip something into Brenna''s drink. Sylvie grabbed another wine ss. from the table, noticing Brandon discreetly holding blue powder.


    Without a moment''s hesitation, Sylvie held out the ss, letting the blue powder drop into the drink. She then swirled the drink carefully before turning to offer it to Brenna. ¡°This drink is perfectly fine. You should ept our apology and drink it," she said.


    Brenna watched the wine swirl in the ss, noting the faint bubbles inside, aware that it had been tampered. with. She casually epted the ss, swirled it, and then turned to Sylvie, speaking softly. "You want to apologize to me, right? Do you know what kind of apology I actually want?"


    Sylvie scoffed, sharing a nce with Vivian before they both muttered a half- hearted, "Sorry."


    Brenna''sughter was tinged with scorn. "That''s it?"


    She shook her head. "This isn''t the apology I''m looking for."


    Vivian, frustrated and wiping wine from her face, demanded, "What do you want then?"


    "Show real remorse," Brenna said. "You two can either drink three sses like the one I have or get on your knees to apologize to me. Choose."


    The onlookers were entertained and stayed out of the matter. Han, in particr, grinned, anticipating the


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    Chapter 92 You''ll Regret This


    unfolding drama.


    Sylvie responded furiously, "Are you even interested in our apology? We invited you here sincerely, and you


    want to insult us?"


    Vivian said, ¡°Clearly, you have no interest in forgiving us!"


    Brenna remained calm, her expression unchanged. "I don''t think you are sincere.


    If that''s the case, I''m leaving now," she said.


    As she made to leave, Han and Brandon stepped in her path, their demeanors threatening.


    Han warned, "Think you can just leave? It''s not that simple."


    In a swift motion, Brenna grabbed their arms. Within seconds, both men were on the floor, grimacing in pain.


    The color drained from Han''s face as he lost all feeling in his arm.


    Brandon gasped for air, his wordsing out through clenched teeth. "Damn it, let me go!" he eximed.


    Rather thanplying, Brenna tightened her grip. A sinister cracking sound filled the room, leaving everyone


    wondering if bones had snapped.


    Brandon''s scream of pain was chilling.


    Pressing her foot against Brandon''s back, Brenna forced another scream from him.


    "Just do what she wants!" Brandon''s defiance had turned to desperation, viewing Brenna as a formidable force.


    He was now eager only to escape her hold.


    Brenna''s action shocked everyone nearby, leaving them speechless.


    Stepping in, Vivian said, ¡°Alright, alright. We''ll agree to your terms. Just don''t hurt them any further."


    While saying this, she discreetly sent a secret message on her phone.


    Brenna finally let the men go.


    Their arms were left tingling with numbness, each movement sparking intense pain. They looked at Brenna with anger and hatred. Han said, "You''ll regret this! I''ll make sure of it."


    Brandon was more direct. "The next time we meet, you''ll pay dearly."


    ?


    A few other young men and women quickly rushed over to assess their injuries.


    Brenna turned to Vivian and Sylvie, asking, "Still think I should drink?"


    Both women quickly shook their heads; they hadn''t expected her to be skilled in fighting


    After sending the message, Vivian tucked her phone away, offering an apologetic smile. "No, we won''t make


    you drink. Let''s sit down and enjoy ourselves. Since we''re apologizing to you tonight, we should make sure you''re entertained properly."


    Brenna scoffed, "Save it. I''m not interested in wasting any more time here."


    With that, she headed for the exit.


    Chapter 92 You''llitegret This


    But the doorway was now blocked by seven young men, defiantly believing

 Wife, Now His Rival 93

    Chapter 93 Need Me To Handle This For You


    Vivian dramatically stepped forward, swiftly moving to position herself in front of Brenna, her face contorted with feigned concern. "Really, a group of grown men targeting one woman? Shameful! She might fend off a couple of you, but this is too much. If you overpower her and then assault her, how do you expect her to face anyone after it?" she said.


    The room echoed withughter.


    Brandon''s face twisted into a sneer. "What a brilliant suggestion. Just what I needed for handling this troublemaker. You think you can defy me, Brenna? Well, you''ve just signed up for a lesson," he said.


    At that moment, a young man with striking blue hair subtly took a wine ss from the table, slipped a yellow pill into it, and walked over to Brenna.


    Quickly, Brandon pulled Vivian out of the way.


    In a feigned state of panic, Vivian eximed to Brenna, "Miss Harper, believe me,


    I wish I could do more to help you, but they''re out of my control. You''re on your own now."


    Brenna met Vivian''s gaze with a cool detachment. "Miss Morrison, for such a feeble attempt at an apology, expect nothing less than twice the trouble from me."


    Dropping her pretense, Vivian retorted coldly, "Oh, is that so? You are in such a tough situation now, yet you


    are still talking big? I''ve already called for more people here. Trust me, they will ensure you''re well ''looked


    after''."


    As she finished her threat, the blue-haired man approached Brenna with the tainted drink, smirking confidently.


    "Now, will you drink this on your own, or shall I help you drink it?" he said.


    Without hesitation, Brenna kicked her leg up high, striking the smug man directly.


    He stumbled backward, crashing into his friends and causing a domino effect of tumbling bodies.


    Brandon bore the force of the impact, and through clenched teeth, he yelled, "Don''t let her escape!"


    Ignoring them, Brenna navigated around the bodies strewn across the floor and made her way to the exit.


    Reaching for the door, she felt Han''s grip on her ankle. "Trying to leave? It''s not that easy," he said.


    Despite their pain, the group swiftly rose and obstructed Brenna''s path.


    Brenna surveyed the seven people with a dismissive nce. She said, "Fighting you will hardly be a proper warm-up for me. But if it''s a real challenge you want... Alright, let''s raise the stakes. Are you game?"


    Fuelled by embarrassment, Han burned with a desire for vengeance. "Fine, let''s raise the stakes. You''ve got


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    Chapter 93 Need Me To Handle This For You


    guts-how do you propose we settle this?" he said.


    Pointing upward, Brenna said, "On the ninth floor, there''s a high-stakes game. Lose, and you will have to have one finger cut off and pay ten million. Are you in?"


    The men shared wary looks, realizing Brenna was not the typical woman from wealthy families like Sylvie or Vivian. She was clearly wild and bold.


    Captivated, Brandon dabbed at the blood on his lip, his smirk revealing his intrigue. "Agreed. But if you lose, the same goes for you: a finger, ten million, and you will be at our mercy for a night," he said.


    Just then, with a swift motion, Brenna''s hand connected sharply with Brandon''s face, her p intensifying the split in his lip and imprinting her mark on his face.


    "Damn it! Get her!" Furious, Brandon abandoned the idea of the game, ordering his friends to attack Brenna.


    Seizing the moment, Brennanded another precise blow on Brandon. Then, she swiftly hit the men who approached her multiple times.


    The men held their faces, eyes wide as they gazed at Brenna, stunned by her swift and terrifying fighting skills.


    At that time, the door creaked open, and a middle-aged man with a neatly trimmed mustache and sses


    entered, casting a stern look around the room.


    A group of bodyguards, their hands neatly behind them, lined up by the door.


    Vivian saw him and quickly approached. "Mr. Fowler, this woman is causing trouble here! She has already assaulted Han and Brandon, and remember, Brandon''s father is the deputy mayor," she said.


    Joonas eyed Brenna, noting her calm demeanor amidst the chaos. He was surprised to see a woman overpower several men. The Imperial Bar punished troublemakers severely, but he had never encountered a woman causing so much trouble before.


    Sylvie quickly said, "Mr. Fowler, she haspletely lost it, destroyed the ce, and even dared Han to a gruesome bet about cutting off fingers. She brought it up, so she must follow through."


    "What''s going on?" Just then, a voice echoed through the space, prompting everyone to halt and look towards


    the entrance.


    Ethan entered, his tall stature and cold demeanor radiating authority. Brenna was surprised to see him.


    As the owner of the Imperial Bar, Ethan had scheduled a meeting with Brenna here. Impatient after some waiting, he ventured to see what themotion was about.


    ¡°Ethan?¡± Brenna nced at her phone and checked the time, recognizing that she waste for their meeting. "Apologies, I''m entangled in some trouble here."


    Sylvie and Vivian, who had seen Ethan''s proposal to Brenna the previous night, had orchestrated this scenario. Their plot was simple: disgrace Brenna tonight and render her uneptable to Ethan.


    Their ns didn''t include Ethan showing up unexpectedly.¡¢


    "Need me to handle this for you?" Ethan''s voice wasced with fury, and it was clear to everyone in the room just how enraged he was by the men''s failed actions towards Brenna.


    Ethan''s fists were balled so tight that the cracking of his knuckles echoed in the room, his face a mask of rage.


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    <


    "Take them down," Brenna said.

 Chapter 94

    Chapter 94 The Imperial Bar Belongs To Mr. Mitch...


    Ethan''s eyes swept over the entrance, quickly noting the seven men present, their expressions hostile. Among them, Han had even dared to try grabbing Brenna.


    His gaze grew cold as he red at Han.


    The moment Han caught Ethan''s icy stare, he hesitated, awkwardly retracting his hand before forcing a


    nervous smile. "Mr. Mitchell..." he mumbled, his voiceced with unease.


    Without warning, he pped himself twice, the sound ringing out sharply in the room. Attempting to salvage the situation, he stered on a smile and said, "Mr. Mitchell, it''s all just a misunderstanding. Please, don''t take


    it the wrong way."


    Han was well aware of Brenna''s connection to Ethan. He was scared of Ethan. He had only attacked Brenna


    because he had assumed Ethan''s interest in her was fleeting.


    He believed if Brenna had been sexually assaulted by others, surely Ethan would lose interest in her and discard


    her without a second thought.


    What he hadn''t expected was for Ethan to show up here in person before he could do anything to Brenna. He


    didn''t know that Ethan was the owner of the bar.


    Chuckling nervously, he scrambled to exin, "Mr. Mitchell, I swear, we were just joking with Miss Harper.


    Sylvie and Vivian invited us today to see them apologize to her, but she refused to ept their apology. We


    were only trying to mediate."


    Ethan''s expression remained cold as he regarded Han. "You must be bold-or foolish-to think you couldy


    a hand on my woman," he said sharply.


    He reached for Brenna, pulling her into his embrace. With a gentle pat on her shoulder, he murmured, "You''re


    safe now. I am here to protect you."


    Brenna could have handled the situation herself-she was more than capable of making these people grovel-


    but there was a certain satisfaction in letting someone else fight for her. The feeling of being protected was


    pretty good.


    "They tried to force me to drink earlier. The drinks were spiked." Brenna''s voice was calm as if she weren''t the


    one who had just been cornered and forced to drink.


    Lifting a slender finger, she pointed directly at Sylvie and Vivian. "Especially those two-they were the worst of


    them all," she said.


    Sylvie and Vivian instinctively retreated, seeking refuge behind the young men. But those same men now viewed them with disdain. If not for their foolish im- that Ethan''s feelings for Brenna were temporary and


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    Chapter 94 The Imperial Bar Belongs To Mr. Mitchell


    that his true affectiony with Rosie-they never would have attempted to treat Brenna so disrespectfully.


    Realization struck Han like a bolt of lightning. He immediately seized Sylvie and Vivian by the hair, yanking them forward before delivering a sharp kick to their knees, forcing them to kneel before Brenna.


    "Mr. Mitchell, these two were the masterminds. They set us up, telling us to go after Miss Harper. We had nothing to do with this," Han dered.


    Ethan regarded Han''s act with an impassive stare, then turned to Brenna, his expression softening. "What do you want to do with them?" he asked.


    Brenna didn''t hesitate as she met Sylvie''s and Vivian''s terrified eyes. "They invited me here to apologize. They should prove their sincerity and drink the spiked drinks," she said.


    Still kneeling, Sylvie and Vivian trembled as Han''s grip kept them in ce, their heads tilted upward. They had never witnessed Ethan''s ruthlessness before and had no idea he owned the bar. All they knew was that the bar''s owner was someone with immense influence-someone not to be provoked.


    Desperation flooded their eyes as they turned to Joonas for help. Vivian, clinging to thest shred of hope, squared her shoulders and shouted, "Mr. Fowler, are you seriously going to let Ethan do as he pleases and destroy your business like this? Are you really going to stand by while he throws his weight around here?"


    Joonas took a step forward, kicking Vivian to the floor. His voice carried a sharp finality as he said, "Miss Morrison, you seem to be mistaken. The Imperial Bar belongs to Mr. Mitchell."


    Vivian gasped as a few strands of her hair were yanked off, pain shooting through her scalp. She grimaced, her wide eyes locking onto Ethan in disbelief. She had heard rumors about the bar''s owner-someone with power in both legal and underground circles, a man no one dared to cross.


    She crumpled to the floor, unable to muster a single word now.


    Overwhelmed with despair, she exchanged a look with Sylvie.


    Why had they ever listened to Rosie? Now that things had taken a disastrous turn, Rosie was nowhere to be found, leaving them to suffer the consequences alone. It was infuriatingly unfair.


    But the Higgins and Morrison families had deep business ties with the Harper family. Turning against Rosie could spell disaster for them in more ways than one. So they could not mention Rosie''s involvement.


    Meanwhile, Brenna had calmly poured two sses of the spiked drink, setting them down in front of Sylvie and


    Vivian. "Drink," she said evenly. "And this will be over."


    Sylvie and Vivian watched the liquid fizz, the blue and yellow pills dissolving


    ominously. They knew exactly what those pills would do.


    Ethanmanded coldly, "Drink."


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 ce His Wife, Now His Rival 95

    Chapter 95 Thiago''s Past


    Ethan cast a chilling look at the bodyguards behind him, his voice ice-cold as he instructed, "Force them to drink it


    He hadn''t witnessed Brenna being forced to drink earlier, but he could easily imagine how helpless she must have been, surrounded and bullied by so many people.


    The scenario disturbed him deeply, he found it unbearable to think of such mistreatment urring in his bar, especially to the woman he cared about.


    Sylvie and Vivian were filled with fear. Holding on to the hope that Rosie''s friendship with Ethan might help her, Sylvie desperately pleaded before the drugged wine was forced into her mouth, "Mr. Mitchell, please, have mercy. Rosie is a close friend of mine. For her sake, please forgive me this time. I''m ready to kneel and apologize to Miss Harper. Please, don''t make me drink the wine..."


    As tears rolled down Sylvie''s cheeks, Ethan''s expression didn''t soften. He asked sharply. "When Brenna was in your ce, did she beg you? What was your response? And now you ask for mercy from me? I won''t show you


    any mercy!"


    With a dismissive gesture, he signaled the bodyguards, who efficiently forced the spiked wine into Sylvie''s and Vivian''s mouths, ensuring none was wasted.


    Ethan then left with Brenna, showing no concern for the fate that awaited Sylvie and Vivian after they drank the wine. In his eyes, they had brought this to themselves.


    As they moved through the hallway, Ethan looked at Brenna, concern evident on his face. Noticing herposed demeanor and that she showed no signs of injury, he felt a wave of relief but still asked, "Are you


    alright? Did they harm you in any way?"


    Brenna responded with a shake of her head, "I''m fine. Those people couldn''ty a finger on me. But just so you know, I''ve already set up a high-stakes game with Han on the ninth floor."


    Thiago remained in the doorway, his eyes zing with a deadly intensity as he stared at Han.


    The other wealthy heirs and socialites, sensing danger, had already hurriedly left, pulling Sylvie and Vivian along with them.


    Thiago paid them no attention. Today, he was focused on settling an old score with Han.


    Han recognized Thiago as well. His earlier arrogance resurfaced as he wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth with his thumb, sneering at Thiago with cold disdain.


    A mocking smile yed across Han''s face. What terrible luck it was to run into Thiago!


    "You''ve managed to survive all these years?" Han mocked, touching his chin with a smirk. "Still not cowering behind your mother? Still the same coward, just as useless. You haven''t changed at all. I''m in a bad mood


    today, so you''re going to take the heat for it."


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    < Chapter 95 Things Fast


    Any trace of gentleness drained from Thiago''s face, leaving a chilling, determined expression His gaze sharpened as he remembered the cruel day years ago when Han and his malicious mother had ousted him and his mother from the Moreno family home.


    The memories were crystal clear. His mother had loved his father, and they had once been a joyous family Unbeknownst to them, his father had been unfaithful, fathering another child and shifting all his wealth to that


    mistress


    In the end, that mistress had used his mother''s illness to force them out. nothing left, they had made their way back to his grandfather''s house, drenched by the pouring rain.


    His mother''s health had deteriorated drastically at that time.


    But that wasn''t the end. That mistress, Han''s mother, had been cruel, making his grandfather so angry that


    he died, and even setting their house on fire. With no other option, his mother had to take him overseas to


    survive


    Life abroad was brutal. He and his mother had struggled financially, and his mother, unable to afford medical


    care, had died due to her illness.


    Thiago lost control of his emotions. He surged forward and knocked Han to the floor with a forceful kick.


    "How can I die while you''re still breathing?" he said sharply.


    Han crashed into a table, shattering sses and bottles. Sharp fragments cut into his flesh, leaving him


    bleeding and immobilized. Through clenched teeth, he stared at Thiago and said, "You dare attack me?"


    Thiago still felt a sense of dissatisfaction after the kick. Even if his father had divorced his mother, he and his


    mother would have been fine. But Han''s malicious mother feared that one day, he might return to im the


    family''s wealth, so she targeted him and his mother without mercy.


    If it hadn''t been for Han''s mother''s cruelty, his mother would still be alive.


    Thiago approached Han and continued his assault, punching and kicking him repeatedly.


    Overwhelmed and in pain, Han shielded his head, yelling, "Thiago, my parents won''t stand for this!"


    Ignoring his threats, Thiago didn''t stop until Han was nearly unconscious. Then, he dragged him up to the


    ninth floor.


    Upon seeing Thiago, Brenna quickly walked over and asked, her face filled with concern, "Are you alright?"


    Seeing Brenna softened Thiago''s harsh demeanor. He said, "I''m fine. But today, I''m going to personally cut off


    one of this bastard''s fingers."


    Hany in the center of the room, unable to move for what felt like an eternity. After a long struggle, he


    managed to push himself up to his feet. He said, "Miss Harper, if you have any honor, don''t take advantage of


    someone who''s weak. I''m injured like this today. How can I possibly gamble with you? We should probably do this another day."


    Brenna responded coldly, "Unfortunately, I won''t have time for this after today. However, you can rest for a while here. Then, we''ll start the game."


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 Chapter 96

    Chapter 96 Brenna''s Fianc¨¦


    Brenna sat beside Ethan at the end of the card table, waiting for Things to join them. The dealer, an elegant woman dressed in high fashion, held the deck of cards, poised and ready to begin.


    Meanwhile, Han was still reeling from the beating he had taken. His limbs weren''t broken, but the pain was


    excruciating, leaving him barely able to move.


    Just then, Thiago reached for a small box handed to him by someone behind him. He opened it, and inside was


    a syringe and a clear ampoule filled with white liquid.


    "What are you doing?" Han blurted out, fear gripping him. His pretending of being unconscious shattered in


    an instant. Terror twisted his features as he scrambled backward. He knew exactly what that substance was


    Once it entered his system, there would be no way out for the rest of his life.


    He eximed in fear, "Don''te any closer! 1-I''m begging you. Sure, my mother did your mother dirty, but I


    had nothing to do with it! I was just a kid back then. If anyone is to me, it''s her, not me!"


    Han''s wide, terror-stricken eyes remained locked on the disposable syringe. He had every reason to believe Thiago had lost his mind and that he no longer cared whether he had taken part in the harm done to his


    mother all those years ago.


    Han continued, "Thiago, please! You can''t do this! Every debt has its source. You can''t take this out on me!


    It was my father who made my mother treat yours that way. If you want revenge, go after them, not me!"


    Thiago let out a derisive snort but didn''t move any closer. Instead, he fixed Han with a cold stare and asked, "Are you ready to join Brenna at the card table now?"


    Han had no choice. Gritting his teeth, he forced himself up from the floor and took a seat across from


    Brenna and Ethan.


    Brenna smiled faintly and exchanged a subtle nce with Thiago. Then, she turned to Ethan and said, "Mr. Mitchell, let me introduce you to someone. This is my friend and business partner in both my studios, Mr.


    Thiago Moreno."


    It was only then that Ethan realized Thiago and Brenna were already well acquainted. He extended his hand and met Thiago''s with a firm handshake. The hostility in their eyes was unmistakable.


    Ethan''s sharp eyes caught the way Thiago looked at Brenna. It wasn''t the gaze of a mere business partner. It


    was the look of a man deeply in love.


    "Hello, Mr. Moreno. I''m Brenna''s fianc¨¦, Ethan Mitchell," Ethan stated. The words weren''t just an introduction. They were a warning for Thiago to keep his distance from Brenna.


    In truth, Ethan wanted more than that. If he had his way, Brenna and Thiago wouldn''t just limit their interactions. They''d stop working together altogether. But, of course, Ethan kept his thoughts to himself.


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    Chapter 96 Brenna''s Fiance


    Brenna let out a sigh and began, "Mr. Mitchell, I didn''t reject your proposal yesterday because of your status. Turning you down in front of so many people would''ve been humiliating for you. In fact, I don''t want to-"


    Ethan sensed Brenna''s indifference toward him but remained Anfazed. A man of his caliber never epted defeat so easily. He believed someone as exceptional as him would win her over eventually. It was only a


    matter of time.


    Before Brenna could finish speaking, he cut her off, saying, "No. Since you epted my proposal yesterday, you''re now my fianc¨¦e. I''ve already changed all my profile pictures on social media to our photos. It''s public


    now. You can''t back out."


    Thiago, who had been watching closely, noticed Brenna''s reluctance and remarked, ¡°Mr. Mitchell, you''re being too forceful. Brenna hasn''t given her full consent. How can you announce the matter publicly? That''s unfair to


    her."


    Ethan shot Thiago a cold re. He said, "This has nothing to do with you, Brenna doesn''t dislike me. I just got ahead of myself, and that might upset her a little. That''s all. I''m telling you-don''t meddle in our affairs."


    "Mr. Mitchell-" Brenna began, but she was cut off by Ethan again.


    Ethan''s expression softened into a smile. He said, "Call me by my nam public, I''ll change the photos right now. I don''t want you to be upset."


    If you don''t want our rtionship


    Without waiting for a response, he handed his phone to Neville, who stood silently behind him. "Change all my profile pictures back," Ethan said.


    Neville stared at his boss for a beat. Since when had his boss started acting sopliant toward a woman?


    Still, he gave a curt nod and said, "Yes, I''ll take care of it now."


    Brenna felt a wave of resignation wash over her. Ethan was too stubborn. But with


    so many people around, this wasn''t the right ce or time to discuss their rtionship. They needed to find a private ce to talk about the


    matterter.


    Meanwhile, Thiago sat in frustration. He wanted to speak up for Brenna, but then, his eyes fell on the ring on her finger. His chest tightened, realizing she didn''t dislike Ethan.


    A dull ache settled in his heart. If he had known she could be won over this easily,


    he would have confessed his feelings and proposed to her long ago.


    He had been a little toote.


    Still, it was fine. Brenna wasn''t married yet. He believed he still had a chance.


    Meanwhile, Han had already sent out several messages on his phone.


    He thought he just had to wait for his father to arrive. Once that happened, Thiago would pay dearly for every


    bit of suffering he had endured today.


    At the table, the dealer disyed the deck of cards, then began shuffling with practiced ease.


    Han had gambled here before, but this was his first time ying at a million- dor table and facing the brutal tradition of losing a finger in high-stakes games. However, he wasn''t worried. His card skills were unmatched. He had never met a worthy opponent before.


    Chapter 96 Brenna''s Fianc¨¦


    He believed Brenna was in for a cruel surprise. Even with Ethan by her side, she would still need to have her finger cut off after losing


    Rmended for you

 Chapter 97

    Read


    Chapter 97 He Has Never


    Lost Before


    Han eyed Brenna with a mixture of arrogance and hate, letting out a derisive snort. "So that''s why you were acting so fearless earlier. I thought you had real skills, but it turns out you''re just hiding behind a man."


    Brenna looked at the man in front of her. He had been beaten badly and carried an air of defiance. She raises an eyebrow slightly. "And what exactly are you implying?"


    Truthfully, Han had no real understanding of Ethan''s influence. In less than a decade, Ethan had turned the Mitchell Group from a mid-tierpany into a global empire, bing the wealthiest man in the world in the


    process.


    But no one was invincible. Everyone had their weak spots. Could Ethan really be good at gambling, too?


    Han studied Ethan intently, but Ethan''s piercing stare sent a shiver down his spine. Unable to maintain eye contact, Han looked away, realizing just how outmatched he was.


    Ethan, unimpressed by Han''s bravado, turned to Brenna and asked in a tender voice, "Do you want me to


    help you?"


    He assumed the odds weren''t in her favor. After all, he believed not many women truly excelled at gambling


    Still, regardless of the oue, Ethan wasn''t about to let anything happen to Brenna. Losing a round of cards was one thing, but losing a finger was unthinkable.


    Han quickly caught on to Ethan''s offer and straightened up, saying to Brenna, "You can''t let him help you! No outside help. If you have the guts to challenge me, don''t go running to a man for help! That''s unfair!" -


    But then, as if realizing something, he sneered, "Actually, now that I think about it, you probably don''t know much about gambling. Even if you bring Ethan into this, it won''t change anything. Let me tell you something. you pathetic woman-whether he''s here or not, I''m not afraid of you. And if you lose, I won''t hesitate to chop off your finger, no matter who''s standing by your side. I''m not someone you can push around."


    He thumped his chest arrogantly. "I''ve been ruling these tables since you were still in school. If you''re having second thoughts, now''s the time to back out. Just crawl under the table and apologize to me, and I''ll let this


    slide."


    He gestured grandly to the entire ninth floor, exuding confidence despite his disheveled state. "Go ahead and ask around. Who on this floor doesn''t know me? Who has ever walked away with a win against Han?"


    He then jabbed a finger toward Joonas and dered, "If you don''t believe me, ask him. Has anyone ever beaten


    me on the ninth floor?"


    At that moment, he regarded Brenna disdainfully, as though she had already lost.


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    00:12


    Chapter 97 He Has Never Lost Before


    The Imperial Bar might be one of Ethan''s many businesses, but with his extensive empire to manage, he rarely had time to concern himself with the regrs here or the winning streaks.


    Still, he nced at Joonas, who immediately stepped forward and said respectfully, "Mr. Mitchell, Han has


    never lost on the ninth floor."


    dmit


    Han scoffed, "So, what''s it going to be, Miss Harper? Admit defeat now, or are you ready to lose your fingers?"


    Thiago, seething with anger, snapped, "Watch your mouth, Han. Brenna''s skill is leagues ahead of yours. You should be worrying about how you''ll beg for mercy when it''s your fingers on the chopping block. You might want to have an ambnce on standby for reattachment."


    Han mmed his hand against the table, his face twisting in rage. "Who the hell asked for your opinion? Stay out of this!" he eximed.


    still bitter over Thiago''s earlier attempt to inject him with that stuff, Han itched to beat him. Gritting his teeth, he added, "Don''t get cocky. You won''t beughing when this is over. If you''ve got any guts, stay here after this is over. I will deal with you then."


    Thiago merely smirked, unbothered. He knew exactly what kind of man Han was and had prepared for what might happen ordingly.


    The dealer had already dealt the cards.


    Stacks of chips sat neatly beside both yers, the required thirty million in betting chips ready to go.


    Han nced at Brenna''s stack arrogantly. He motioned to the dealer, signaling for her to shuffle the deck.


    In his mind, Brenna was nothing more than an amateur-a casual card yer out of her depth in a high-stakes.


    match.


    Brenna shuffled the deck with a simple, no-frills technique-devoid of the theatrical ir seen in seasoned gamblers.


    Watching her, Han smirked, his confidence soaring. He believed she was just another overconfident amateur


    and was no match for him.


    "With those basic skills, you think you can take me on?" he said in a mocking voice.


    When his turn came, he made a show of it. Holding the deck with practiced ease, he spread the cards across the table in a perfectly symmetrical fan.


    With a flick of his wrist, the entire deck flipped over in a seamless motion, earning impressed murmurs.


    He shuffled a few more times-fast, precise, effortless-before passing the deck back to the dealer.


    The female dealer moved swiftly, spreading the cards across the table before dealing three to each yer.


    Han flipped his first card, then the second, nodding in satisfaction. His luck was holding. He then saw Brenna turn over her cards one by one, looking anything but rxed.

 Now His Rival 98

    Chapter 98 Impossible


    Han was confident that no one could shuffle cards better than he could.


    In his hand were three solid cards-a King of Hearts, a Queen of Hearts, and a Jack of Hearts.


    He believed Brenna might have known her way around a deck, but she was no match for him.


    Heid down the smallest one first-the Jack. Then, he gave Brenna a gentlemanly smile. He didn''t care that


    his face was marred with scars. As long as his cards held, he could always get his way back to the top.


    "Brenna, it''s your turn," he said. He nced at the staff member beside him. The man held a sharp knife for the punishment after the game. Han imagined Ethan sitting helpless, watching the woman he loved lose a


    finger.


    Brenna didn''t seem pleased with what she held. She let out a soft sigh, a touch of gloom in her eyes, and


    tossed one card onto the table without much thought.


    Han figured it was just some ordinary card. From the way Brenna looked, downcast and disappointed, he was sure her hand didn''t stand a chance against his.


    With a smug smile creeping across his face, he nced at the card she had


    thrown. But it turned out to be an Ace of Spades.


    "Impossible! I shuffled the cards myself. You were supposed to get low ones. How could it be an Ace?" he


    eximed in shock.


    His palms turned mmy. The two cards he had left were both weaker.


    What should he do now?


    A wave of panic washed over Han, but he forced himself to breathe. Brenna had gotten lucky with one card. That was all. The other cards she had had to be smaller than his.


    "Your move," he said, irritated.


    Brenna gave a sweet smile and tossed out another Ace.


    Han''s eyes widened in shock. "No way! Mr. Mitchell, did you help your woman cheat? I know the cards I shuffled. There''s no way she could''ve pulled two Aces. I''m not epting this!"


    He mmed the table hard as he spoke.


    However, Ethan remained calm. With a flick of a finger, Joonas stepped in and shoved Han''s head down onto the table. "You dare disrespect Mr. Mitchell? Who do you think you are? You''re not even worth his time," he said coldly.


    Brenna clicked her tongue. "You lost, then you start using me of cheating? Han, weren''t you the one >ragging about your skills? Looks like you''re all talk," she said.


    00:13


    Ethan watched Brenna quietly. She was calm and sure of herself. Almost too sure. Now, he was curious. How did she get this good at gambling? What kind of things had she faced to be like this?


    The thought made Ethan''s chest tighten. What kind of life h she lived to get this sharp with cards? He believed Brenna must have been through some rough years.


    But now, with him by her side, no one wouldy a hand on her again.


    Ethan gave Brenna''s hand a gentle pat and said, "Should we just take three of his fingers now?"


    "No need. Let him choose how he wants to continue," Brenna calmly said.


    Ethan chuckled, but his voice carried a sharp edge. "Let him go. We''ll let him choose whatever he wants to y."


    Han still couldn''t understand. How could a young woman who looked so gentle know her way around cards


    like that?


    Should they y dice now?


    Surely, she couldn''t be good at that, too, could she?


    Without thinking it through, Han said, "Dice! One round to determine the winner."


    He shot Brenna a re. No way a woman like her could be good at dice.


    Soon, the female dealer walked over, cleared the table, and then stepped away. A male staff member in a crisp


    vest then approached and set the dice between them.


    Han wasn''t about to repeat his earlier mistake. This time, he picked up both


    sets of dice and checked them


    with care. Nothing seemed off.


    "Lowest score wins!" he said.


    "Alright. I''ll y. But the loser needs to have three fingers chopped off. With this many people watching, don''t


    even think about backing out," Brenna said, her voice was as sweet as honey.


    By then, a crowd had already formed around the table. Most were influential


    people from Shirie, drawn in by the rising tension and high stakes.


    A few foreigners had joined as well, eager to see how the matter would end.


    Joonas leaned down and whispered something in Ethan''s ear.


    Ethan grew uneasy, and he pulled out his phone, ready for a backup n if things turned bad for Brenna.


    Brenna might handle cards well, but when it came to dice, Han had real experience. At the Imperial Bar, he hadn''t lost a game in years.


    Ethan shot a nce at Brenna. She looked calm, as if she had the whole thing mapped out already.


    Han also looked confident. Maybe even more so.


    After checking the six dice for ws, Brenna and Han covered them with copper


    cups and began shaking them. Each had their own rhythm and style.


    Brenna gave hers three clean shakes before setting the cup down. <chapter 98="" impossible<="" p=""></chapter>


    Holding the cup with both hands, Han kept shaking. His movements seemed steady and practiced.


    The dice rattled sharply against the copper. The sound was crisp and almost musical.


    He noticed Brenna had already set her cup down. Only three shakes and no technique.


    He believed there was no way she could beat him at this.


    Han kept shaking his cup. When he was sure it was just right, he finally ced his cup on the table.


    Brenna rested her hand lightly on the top of her cup and waited until Han was done. Then, slowly, she lifted


    the lid.


    "Impossible!" Han eximed in shock.


    Brenna''s six dice stood perfectly stacked-one on top of the other.


    That was supposed to be his specialty. No one else in Shirie could pull it off.

 Chapter 99

    Chapter 99 Who Do You Think You Are


    Han squinted at the topmost die on the other side, shocked to see that it showed a one.


    He eximed, "How is this possible? Where did you learn this trick? You only shook the cup three times and rolled six ones. I refuse to believe it! I spent five years perfecting this technique, and I still need multiple shakes. How did you pull it off?"


    He couldn''t believe this!


    Slowly, he lifted his own cover-only to reveal that the top die was also a one.


    For the first time, Brenna looked impressed. "Not bad."


    She carefully ced each of her dice on the table, revealing six perfect ones.


    Raising a brow slightly, she said, "Han, your turn. Let''s see-do you have six ones?"


    Han let out a snort, fuming at the challenge. Years of practice had never earned him a perfect roll, but at this moment, he prayed for a miracle.


    Joonas leaned in and began lifting Han''s dice, removing them slowly. With every die turned over, the


    pounding in Han''s chest grew louder.


    The first die-a one.


    The second-a one.


    A spark of hope flickered across Han''s face. His training hadn''t been for


    nothing. If all six were ones, he''d


    escape the worst oue.


    The third die-still a one.


    His smile widened ever so slightly.


    But his heart raced in anticipation.


    The fourth-a one again.


    His fortune was astounding. He felt he wouldn''t lose this time, and augh escaped him.


    Brenna''s smirk deepened, amusement shing across her face. The guy had both skill and luck.


    The fifth die-a one.


    Brenna exchanged a knowing look with Thiago. If this continued, teaching Han


    a lesson tonight might not be


    possible.


    00:13


    Chapter 99 Who Do You Think You Are


    Only one die remained.


    The entire room fell silent, all eyes locked onto thest reveal


    It was a thire.


    Han''s face drained of color. His limbs went weak, and without thinking, he hid his hands beneath the table


    The gathered spectators-many of whom had suffered after losing to Han watched intently Some bore knife wounds, others had lost fingers, a few had scars marking their faces, and some had gambled away everything they owned. Now, they all waited for Joonas to deliver his verdict.


    Losing this game came with a brutal price losing three fingers.


    Desperation overtook Han as he turned to Thiago. "Thiago, we''re family. You know Miss Harper. Please, speak to her on my behalf. Don''t let them cut off my fingers. I''ll pay-double the amount Would that be


    enough?"


    Brenna wasn''t particrly interested in cutting off Han''s fingers. Her decision to corner him tonight wasn''t solely because he had sided with Sylvie and Vivian against her-it was also about Thiago.


    This entire situation had been set up for Thiago to bring Han down.


    Brenna turned to Thiago. "Three fingers. You can do it."


    Thiago''s expression was cold and unwavering. "Sure thing."


    Ethan, watching their exchange, sensed there was more to their rtionship than mere partnership


    Without drawing attention, he pulled out his phone and sent a message,


    instructing someone to look into Thiago and Brenna.


    Meanwhile, Joonas had Han''s right hand forced onto the table.


    A sharp, putrid smell hit Brenna, making her wrinkle her nose in disgust. Han


    had peed himself in fear. Brenna said to Ethan, "It''s disgusting here. Let''s leave the matter to Thiago and Joonas. We can go now."


    Ethan checked his watch and nodded. "It''s about time for dinner. Let''s go eat something," he said.


    Han, paralyzed with fear, screamed frantically, "No, please, don''t do this! Name any price-I''ll pay it! I''ll even hand over part of my family''s business..."


    His pleas fell on deaf ears. Thiago gripped a gleaming knife and drove it into the table with a sharp thud. "Begging won''t change anything now. When you forced my mother to take that destructive substance, do you remember how she and I begged you? Did you show any mercy back then?" he said.


    "Ahhh-"


    A sharp cry rang out from Han''s mouth as three of his fingers were cut off.


    Brenna didn''t stay to witness it. She and Ethan had already left.


    Before their car could pull away, a fleet of ck vehicles swerved in, blocking their path.


    Ethan''s expression hardened as he watched a familiar figure step out of the lead car-Brandon. His unexpected return was anything but friendly.


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    Brandon came from a powerful family, with deep political roots spanning generations. He had always been respected, admired, and ttered his entire life, Suffering humiliation was something he had never experienced -and he wasn''t about to let the matter slide.


    A series of loud thuds echoed as the doors of the surrounding cars swung shut after the people inside emerged Dozens of men in ck suits were there, each gripping an iron rod, looking all ruthless.


    Brenna cast a nce at them and said to Ethan, "We''re outnumbered


    Ethan remained unfazed "So what? This is my territory. Do they really think they can stir up trouble for me


    here?" he said.


    Before Brenns could respond, another wave of people spilled out from the Imperial Bar, swiftly surrounding


    Brenna and Ethan''s car to protect them.


    Brandon had clearly anticipated this. Holding an iron rod, he stepped forward, positioning himself directly in front of Ethan''s vehicle. "Mr. Mitchell, do you have the courage to take me one-on-one" he said.


    The men from the Imperial Bar had no fear of Brandon. They didn''t even need Ethan''smand. Joonas strode


    forward and delivered a powerful punch straight to Brandon''s nose. "Who do you think you are, challenging Mr.


    Mitchell?" he said coldly.


    Rmended for you

 Wife, Now His Rival 100

    Chapter 100 Sc¨²m


    Few people dared to challenge Ethan''s authority. In moments like this, it was only natural for Joonas to step in personally. As a trained fighter with considerable strength, he had every intention of teaching Brandon a lesson,


    and he didn''t hold back.


    Brandon let out a painful cry, clutching his nose as a stream of hot blood flowed through his fingers.


    Pain exploded through Brandon''s face. His nose felt broken, and his head pounded so fiercely that the voices


    around him became nothing more than muffled noise.


    Doubling over in agony, he remained still for a moment while his people stood in stunned silence.


    Since he could not speak, Brandon lifted a trembling hand and pointed at Joonas, his gaze seething with fury.


    After a few ragged breaths, he''managed to spit out the words, "Take him down!"


    Without a second thought, his people lunged forward, brandishing iron rods as they charged at Joonas.


    Although Joonas'' side was outnumbered, his men were experienced fighters, many of whom were former special forces soldiers. Within seconds, Brandon''s meny on the ground, groaning in pain.


    Joonas hadn''t even needed to lift a finger. Standing with one hand in his pocket, calm andposed, he


    watched as a subordinate lit a cigar for him and handed over a phone. "Here is what you asked for."


    Joonas let out a chuckle, utterly confident in his victory. With a nod toward Brandon, he said, "Show him."


    The subordinate turned the phone screen toward Brandon.


    The image disyed a middle-aged man and a young woman, bothpletely naked, lying together in what appeared to be avish bedroom.


    Brandon''s face drained of color. He stared at the screen as if it had pped him, his mouth ajar in disbelief. Shaking his head furiously, he muttered, "No... No... That''s impossible. Where did you get this photo? This


    can''t be real."


    The man in the photo was his father, the deputy mayor. A man who would never make such a reckless mistake.


    Despite the searing pain in his nose, Brandon snapped back, his voiceced with denial, "This is fake! You are just trying to ruin my father''s name! He is the deputy mayor-honest, incorruptible, and principled. He would never do something like


    this."


    Without saying a word, Joonas took the phone and swiped to the next image. Brandon''s eyes grew wider, his


    breath caught in his throat, and his face twisted into disbelief.


    He shook his head repeatedly, refusing to ept it. "I don''t know where you got these photos, but I won''t let you frame my father. I''m not falling for this trick!" he said.


    The photo showed an open wardrobe stuffed to the brim with bricks of cash. It was clearly taken in the same


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    Chapter 100 Scum


    bedroom.


    Joonas remained unfazed by Brandon''s protests. He kept scrolling, showing him a new photo.


    Brandon froze when he saw the new photo. The image showed him holding a cigarette butt, pressing it into a terrified girl''s shoulder. Tears streamed down her cheeks, and beside her stood Han, wearing a menacing smirk as he poured red wine over het.


    Then, another disturbing photo appeared on the screen, showing Brandon holding a syringe, injecting something into the arm of a blond-haired boy. The image didn''t reveal what he was injecting, but it was


    obviously not anything good.


    Joonas showed Brandon over twenty photos, each one more damning than thest.


    Brandon was at aplete loss for words. He had always believed that no one knew about his misdeeds, that there were no cameras to capture his bad actions. But now... Where did these photose from? Who had


    taken them?


    Ovee with shock, he crumpled to the ground, his mind spinning, unsure of what to do next.


    "So, Brandon, what do you think? Are these enough to throw your entire family behind bars?" Joonas said.


    "Please!" Brandon begged desperately, no longer noticing the throbbing ache in his nose. On his knees, he grabbed Joonas'' pant leg, pleading frantically, "Please, Joonas, Mr. Mitchell... If you destroy this evidence, I''ll do anything. Anything you want. Just don''t expose my father and me. I''m begging you."


    Disgust flickered across Joonas'' face. With a sharp kick, he shoved Brandon away, then brushed off his pants as if shaking off something vile.


    Joonas said, "Stop groveling. It''s pathetic. The files are already with the prosecutor''s office. Do you have any idea how many vile, unforgivable things you and your father have done? What makes you think Mr. Mitchell would ever cover for scum like you? Get lost."


    With a sharpmand, Joonas moved aside the people and cars blocking Ethan and Brenna''s path.


    Inside the car, Brenna sat watching as Brandon begged at Joonas'' feet desperately.


    "That guy is nothing but a total bastard," she said coldly, feeling no sympathy for Brandon.


    Ethan''s eyes were cold as he nodded. He turned to Brenna and gave a brief, matter-of-fact recount of the major offensesmitted by Brandon and his


    father.


    Soon after, they left the scene and arrived at an elegant and tranquil restaurant.


    No sooner had they taken their seats than Brenna''s phone rang. It was a call from Thiago.


    ¡°Han has been admitted to the hospital," Thiago said. "I''m about to start dealing with the Moreno family directly. I have already uploaded evidence of Han''s crimes online. It won''t be long before the authoritiesunch an investigation into the Moreno family."


    Brenna replied in a calm voice, ¡°I''ll help you with that. I''m going to start monitoring the Moreno family''s stock activity. Once panic selling begins, we will swoop in and buy at rock-bottom prices. Our goal is to secure controlling shares as quickly as possible."


    After hanging up the call with Thiago, Brenna noticed Ethan quietly watching her, a slight frown on his face,


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    Chapter 100 Scum


    looking as though he had been wronged.


    "Do you need my help?" Ethan asked casually, trying to seem unconcerned, though deep down, it bothered him to see his woman helping another man

 Chapter 101

    Chapter 101 Thanks For All


    Your Help


    Brenna turned her gaze towards Ethan, releasing a gentle chuckle before diving into her phone to survey thetest shifts in the stock market, particrly focusing on the Moreno family''s financial movements.


    A brief check revealed no dramatic changes in the stock values, prompting Brenna to exit the page and begin disseminating some crucial data she hadpiled online.


    Watching her adept maniption of the phone, Ethan was filled with admiration. He softly grasped her hand, suggesting. "Let me handle these minor details for you. Just hand over the information, and my team will ensure it makes waves online within a couple of hours."


    Ethan''s assurance lit up Brenna''s face. "Oh, really?" she asked.


    Ethan nodded confidently, patting his chest. "Trust in me to take care of it," he said.


    With a grin, he added, "It''s effortless for us. Just forward what you''ve got, and my team will coordinate with your connections to optimize the impact."


    His real intention was to minimize Brenna''s chances of interacting with Thiago.


    Gratefully, Brenna transferred the information to Ethan, expressing her appreciation. "Thank you. I''d like to treat you to dinner to show you my gratitude,¡± she said.


    Feeling somewhat disheartened, Ethan reflected on the nature of their rtionship. Uncertain about the norms of couple interactions, he felt that such minor assists shouldn''t lead to formal thanks or meal invitations.


    "Don''t be so formal; as your fianc¨¦, it''s natural for me to help you," he said earnestly.


    Brenna lowered her gaze. Why was he still saying that? She had made things clear to him already. She had never truly wanted to marry him; her agreement at that time was more about saving face for him publicly.


    When the waiter served the meal Ethan had ordered, Brenna was pleasantly surprised to find all her favorite


    dishes on the table. Moved by his thoughtfulness, she wondered how Ethan had managed to know her tastes so


    well.


    The words she had prepared to say to him suddenly seemed too harsh to utter.


    She reflected on Ethan''s support throughout the day and realized that rejecting him immediately might cause unnecessary pain. Perhaps dying the inevitable would be kinder.


    Ethan had shown her nothing but kindness, and since she wasn''t involved with anyone else, there seemed no harm in giving their rtionship a bit more time to see where it might lead.


    "Alright, I understand," Brenna said gracefully, filling a ss with a cocktail for Ethan.


    0.0%


    0014


    After a pause, she continued with genuine appreciation, "Honestly, I would have been lost today without your intervention Thanks for all your help.


    tion filled Ethan as he nced at the engagement ring adoring her finger. Its presence warmed his heart, suggesting her silent eptance of his proposal.


    "We''re practically family now. Whenever you''re in a bind, just reach out to me. I will help you," Ethan assured her, pulling a ck gold card from his jacket and offering it to Brenn "Feel free to use this. It''s got no spending limit.¡±


    Brenna gently refused, pushing the card back towards him. "I have my own money," she said.


    Ethan said, ¡°Listen, you''re going to be my wife. What belongs to me money"


    Brenna smiled, finding it hard to refuse him. She had no choice but


    ngs to you. I want you to spend my


    ept the card


    In the hospital.


    Just out of surgery, Han was wheeled out of the room, his right hand heavily bandaged, mirroring the various other injuries that adorned his body.


    Anxiously positioned by the doorway, a middle-aged couple fixated on the operating room''s light, which finally


    dimmed.


    They surged forward as the doors swung open. Confronted with the sight of their son, still lost in unconsciousness, the mother sumbed to her sadness and wept.


    "We should have eliminated that woman and her son when we had the chance! Look at the agony they''ve inflicted on our boy! If I every hands on that person, I''ll rip him apart!" she eximed.


    Her gaze painfully traced over Han''s battered form, the sight of his mangled right hand intensifying her


    distress.


    Hesitant even to touch him, she cried out, "His hand is destroyed! We must do something! Send someone to track down that man immediately. I want the satisfaction of killing him myself!"


    Roberto Moreno shared his wife''s intense anger, his expression darkening as he observed the extent of his son''s injuries. "That kid has been running wild for years, and now, he returns to pull this stunt? He shows no respect for me whatsoever! If I catch him, I''ll kill him myself!" he shouted in anger.


    His wife''s voice turned harmful. "Cut off his hands! How could he be so heartless


    to his own brother? Han has never wronged him, yet he''s treated like this!"


    Regret gnawed at her as she continued, "I regret the day we spared him. Had I known this would happen, I would have killed him back then. You need to find him now!"


    Meanwhile, a secretary took a tense phone call nearby. He, nced at the seething Moreno couple, wrestling with the timing of his news. Once Han had been transferred to a standard room and his parents had calmed down slightly, the secretary cautiously approached Roberto, extending his phone. "Mr. Moreno, please look at these photos," he said.

 Chapter 102

    Chapter 102 Negative News


    Roberto''s gaze was fixed on his secretary''s phone, which disyed a post that had quickly be viral,


    umting over a hundred thousand views and eliciting thousands ofments.


    Authored by someone directly impacted, the post detailed the violent demolition of a city vige three years ago. It described how the demolition squad, backed by the Moreno family''spany, had aggressively


    destroyed homes and personal belongings. The post used the Moreno family''spany of buying thend


    and then forcibly evicting the residents, leading to a tragic incident where a person was killed by an excavator


    for resisting eviction.


    The bereaved family had decided to share their story publicly, filling the post with graphic images of the


    destruction-the moment the excavator struck, injured residents, emergency medical responses, and the


    confrontations that ensued-all captured in stark detail.


    A cold shiver traveled down Roberto''s spine as he recalled the suppression of this incident, with no media coverage and photographs confiscated and destroyed by the eviction team at that time.


    He wondered about the resurgence of these details. His face hardened as he said, "Identify the media outlet responsible for this post and shut it down now. We can''t let this spread."


    His wife, Jovie Moreno, hurried over, fury evident as she pointed at the photos disyed on the screen. "Who dared to post this story? They must be suicidal to challenge the Moreno family like this!"


    Her features twisted into a grimace as suspicion dawned on her. "Could Thiago be behind this?" she asked.


    Roberto pondered her suggestion, his response grave. "That could be the case."


    He then asked Han, "Do you have Thiago''s contact information?"


    Han, clearly agitated, responded, "No, I''ve lost all contact with him. I never thought I''d see him today."


    He clutched Roberto''s arm with his uninjured hand. "Dad, we must track him down. I need revenge for my


    hand!" he said.


    He reached for his phone next, browsing through recent news updates. His face grew stormy as he read one negative headline after another about the Moreno family. Not just about the current scandal, but also about unpaid construction wages leading to a worker''s suicide attempt, and stories of his father''s former wife and eldest son being driven away by his mistress. The family''s dirtyundry was now public knowledge.


    The Moreno family were reeling, confronted with a deluge of damning articles online, utterly unsure how to


    respond.


    Both Roberto and Jovie unleashed a torrent of me on Thiago, with Jovie''s usations particrly harsh


    Jovie said to Roberto, "Look at this catastrophe! It must be your ex-wife and her son stirring up all this trouble. Who else holds such a vendetta against you? They want to ruin us!"


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    The secretary said, his voice shaky, "Mr. Moreno, what should we do now? With this onught of negative press, our stock prices will surely crash when the markets open. We need to act fast, or thepany could copse, potentially costing us millions, or even billions, overnight."


    Jovie''s panic was evident. ¡°Darling, please do something! Without thepany, our lifestyle is at risk!" she said


    to Roberto.


    Han chimed in, echoing the sentiment, ¡°Dad, Thiago must be orchestrating this. We need to find him and


    make him stop."


    Roberto''s patience snapped under the barrage ofints from Jovie and Han. Overwhelmed by the cascade of crises they had brought upon him, he yelled, ¡°Enough! You''re making my head hurt!"


    He abruptly left with his secretary, determined to convene an emergency board meeting to devise a strategy.


    Just after Roberto left, a knock at the hospital room door momentarily diverted Jovie''s and Han''s attention.


    To their astonishment, Thiago stood at the doorway, looking calm andposed.


    Han''s fury ignited immediately, and he nearly leapt from his hospital bed to challenge Thiago, shouting, "How dare youe here?"


    Jovie hastened to the door, her hand raised to strike Thiago.


    In a swift move, Thiago grasped her wrist, and with a forceful motion, sent her tumbling to the floor, asking coolly, "Are you enjoying the present I''ve delivered?"


    Jovie hit the floor hard, her wrist turning a painful shade of red. She looked up fiercely at the arrogant Thiago. "What joy do you find in destroying the Moreno family?" she asked.


    Thiago leaned casually against the doorway, a satisfied grin on his face as he enjoyed the Moreno family unravel, savoring their distress and the impending loss of their empire.


    He said, "Joy? I gain nothing from your prosperity. Your misery, however, really brings me joy. But brace yourselves; this is merely the start. I have a far greater shock in store for you."


    With a scornfulugh, he turned to leave.


    Han, weakened by the anesthesia and confined to his bed, seized his phone in


    a fit of anger and hurled it at Thiago. But it missed, barely brushing past Thiago''s


    coat.


    Jovie chased after Thiago, saying, "What is it that you want?"


    Thiago was acutely aware that the woman before him had orchestrated his mother''s death, and his resentment


    ran deep.


    He said coldly, "My mother''s death cries for vengeance, Jovie. Whatever you inflicted upon her, expect to suffer tenfold in return. Just wait, you''ll feel every bit of it."


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    A mix of scorn and madness yed across Jovie''s features as she sneered dismissively at Thiago. Recalling her past dealings with Mollie Moreno and Thiago, she still reveled in those memories.


    She said, "You and your mother were the architects of your own downfall. How many times did I confess my love for your father to her? 1 pleaded repeatedly for her to step aside, yet she stubbornly refused. She brought everything upon herself!"


    Enraged, Thiago struck Jovie with a forceful p, feeling the sting on his palm. "You vile woman! My mother was your sister! How could you be so cruel to her?" he said.


    The p left Jovie''s cheek burning and her teeth rattling, yet she returned Thiago''s gaze with fierce defiance. "Sister? She was merely a child from her mother''s first marriage, not rted to me by blood. She was an unwanted stepchild. She didn''t deserve to marry your father. She was unattractive, temperamental, and utterly worthless! And me? I was always the more beautiful, the more talented one, groomed by my family. I deserve to be with your father, not her!" she said.


    Thiago was appalled by her irrational reasoning. ¡°My parents shared a deep love. You were the one who destroyed their happiness," he said firmly.


    In a fit of rage, Jovie retorted, "Love? That''s nonsense! Your father was only after my family''s wealth and influence. Your mother had neither beauty nor skills. Why would he choose her over anyone?"


    Herughter was harsh, ridiculing Thiago''s innocence as if he were oblivious to the true nature of things.


    After a pause, she continued, "Let me set the record straight-your father had his eyes on me from the start.


    But I was too young then, so he married your mother. Once I came of age, it was only natural that he and I would be together."


    Nausea overwhelmed Thiago as he grasped the full depravity of his family''s dynamics. The thought of his


    father filled him with revulsion now.


    "You are shameless!" he eximed.


    Yet, Jovie shrugged off the usation, her pride evident. "Do you actually think your father had affection for


    your mother? If so, then why did he ignore my harsh treatment of you both? Don''t be naive. I wasn''t the only


    cruel one here. Your father was even harsher to you and your mother than me!"


    Han, confined to his hospital bed, was utterly shocked to hear that. He was aware his father had been previously married, but the revtion that his ex-wife was his aunt left him reeling.


    What kind of messed-up rtionship was this? He said in disbelief, "Mom! Can you exin what you''re saying?"


    Jovie approached Han''s bedside, her tone soothing. "This matter doesn''t concern you. It''s an old conflict


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    between our family and them."


    Han''s focus, however, was elsewhere. Thiago''s unexpected appearance was an opportunity for vengeance he feltpelled to grasp


    Yet, Thiago''sing was apparent. Han had stealthily summoned backup, but Thiago had already left by the time his call ended. Shortly after, Jovie returned, visibly distressed, clutching her face


    "Mom, where is Thiago?" Han asked.


    With a cold gaze, Jovie responded, "He''s left for now. But don''t worry, he''ll return.¡±


    At the residence of the Harper family.


    Ethan himself swung open the car door for Brenna.


    The sight of the world''s wealthiest man attending to her made Brenna feel slightly uneasy.


    Rosie had just gotten back from the hospital after seeing Sylvie and Vivian, who were recovering from an overdose of a potent drug


    Now confined to a shared hospital room, both received ongoing IV treatment,


    With full recovery still days away.


    The failure of Rosie''s scheme to humiliate Brenna at the Imperial Bar and Br"


    subsequent rescue had been


    Even more astonishing to Rosie was that Han and Brandon had been beaten by Brenna. She wondered about


    the extent of Brenna''s hidden talents.


    Spotting Ethan as he opened the car door, Rosie''s curiosity surged, wondering whom Ethan was opening the


    car door for.


    Her shock was evident when Brenna emerged from the vehicle.


    Rosie couldn''t contain her astonishment. "How have you enchanted Ethan so thoroughly? He''s the wealthiest man in the world, yet here he is, holding the car door for you?" she said.


    She stormed out of her car, ready to confront Brenna.


    However, she then quickly regained herposure, not wanting to reveal her involvement in the day''s events.


    Approaching with a forced smile, Rosie inquired, "Brenna, Ethan, what brings you two back together?"


    Ethan''s response was a dismissive nce, treating Rosie as if she were invisible.


    Brenna eyed Rosie, detecting a hint of hospital disinfectant. "Have you been at the hospital just now?" she


    asked.


    Irritated by Ethan''s disregard and Brenna''s evasion, Rosie lied.


    "No," she said. "Where have you been?"


    Brenna offered a faint smile. "Nowhere special," she replied.


    Rosie, struggling to control her anger, shifted her strategy. "Ethan, since you''re here, why not join us for dinner?"


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    she asked.


    Ethan finally responded, "There''s no need for that. Brenna and I have already eaten."


    Still insistent. Rosie said, ¡°Really? Well,e in and stay for a while anyway."

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    Chapter 104 The Clothes


    Are Ruined


    Rosie smiled at Ethan, convinced she was presenting her most captivating self today. She couldn''t understand why, despite her upbringing as the daughter of a rich family, Ethan would choose Brenna, a woman defined by her hardships and humble nature.


    Since Ethan''s proposal to Brenna the previous evening, Rosie had been puzzling over Brenna''s charmpared to her own.


    With sincerity, Rosie offered an invitation to Ethan.


    Ethan, in turn, nced at Brenna, valuing her opinion. "What do you think?" he asked.


    Rosie was infuriated. Even for such a minor decision, Ethan sought Brenna''s approval. It seemed she was very important to him.


    She masked her irritation, maintaining her poise.


    With a cool smile, Rosie addressed Brenna, saying, "You don''t mind if Ethan joins us in our home, do you?"


    Brenna responded in a calm tone, "Of course, I don''t mind."


    Ethan''s joy was evident; Brenna''s eptance reinforced his belief that she truly epted him as her future husband-a significant acknowledgment.


    Rosie''s anger erupted when she saw Ethan''s pleased expression. Having known him since childhood, she had never received such warmth from him; he had always been distant and reserved toward her. This only deepened her resentment toward Brenna, particrly when she saw her with Ethan.


    Catching Rosie''s expression, Brenna gave a small, knowing smile and said, "Let''s all go in together."


    Then, Brenna casually looped her arm through Ethan''s as they walked in, openly disying their closeness.


    Rosie, following behind, could hardly contain her frustration and stomped her foot as she followed.


    The living room was empty. Shepard and Giselle had stepped out for a walk after dinner, and Dalton was upied upstairs, talking business with his manager.


    The household staff, havingpleted their duties, were now enjoying their leisure time.


    Ethan was quite familiar with the Harper family. He and Ernst were peers and often crossed paths in the business world due to their executive roles in their respectivepanies.


    He knew Dalton only casually and wasn''t very familiar with him. After looking around and seeing that no one wasing downstairs, he became aware of how silent the house was.


    He wandered through the living room and eventually settled onto the couch. Brenna found herself at a loss for


    008


    words, struggling to find a light topic to ease the awkward atmosphere.


    She asked calmly, "Would you like to drink something?"


    Ethan responded affirmatively, "Yes, I am a bit thirsty."


    In the pantry, Brenna spotted coffee beans, freshly squeezed orange juice, an assortment of yogurts, and even beer in the refrigerator.


    She couldn''t quite decide what Ethan might like, but since they had just eaten, she figured juice would be a good option.


    After pouring two sses of juice, she carried them back.


    Ethan reclined on the couch, his legs stretched out in front of him, while a te of sliced fruity on the coffee table. Nearby, Rosie eagerly suggested, "Ethan, try some of the fruit. My parents are probably on their walk now."


    Ethan remained disinterested in engaging with Rosie, maintaining a cold expression. However, his mood lightened when Brenna returned with the juice, and he epted it, saying, "I was just thinking about having orange juice."


    Rosie felt increasingly ignored, realizing her attempts to disrupt Ethan and Brenna''s rtionship were useless. Her efforts only made her look embarrassed, providing Brenna with amusement. With a frustrated snort, Rosie


    red at Brenna and then stormed off to her room.


    Brenna, fingers brushing her ring, sensed the urgency to make things clear with Ethan.


    She said, "I need to talk to you about something."


    Ethan was on the verge of suggesting they finalize the wedding ns soon. He said, "Go ahead. What is it?"


    Brenna was aware that hering words might wound Ethan''s ego, yet she feltpelled to be honest about


    her feelings-orck thereof.


    She began, "We need to discuss our rtionship¡ª"


    "Ah-"


    Before she could finish speaking, Rosie''s scream from upstairs cut through the silence. Brenna narrowed her


    eyes toward the staircase, puzzled by themotion above.


    Soon, servants appeared from different parts of the house and ascended the stairs, led by Rachael.


    Brenna rose to her feet and said, "Let me see what''s happening first."


    Ethan, too, was drawn by the noise, wondering about Rosie''s antics.


    "Who ruined all my clothes?" Rosie eximed, holding up a sleeveless, goose- yellow dress with arge slit


    cutting through its neckline.


    Frantically, she searched through her wardrobe, finding more garments simrly vandalized.


    Many were shed, and her beloved M&G brand cocktail dress was shredded. She red angrily at everyone by the door and asked, "Who did this?"


    Brenna let out a softugh, her shoulders lifting in a shrug. "What goes aroundes around, right? Looks like


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    someone did what I''ve been tempted to do," she said.


    Rosie instantly suspected that Brenna was behind this, recalling how she had sabotaged three of Brenna''s dresses atst night''s wee party in an attempt to humiliate her


    It seemed usible that Brenna would seek revenge by ruining her entire wardrobe.


    Was it you who did this?" Rosie asked Brenna.

 Chapter 105

    Chapter 105 Who Else


    Could It Be But Her


    Brenna quickly retorted, "Why would you think I did this?"


    Rosie was momentarily thrown off. The reason seemed clear to her-she had sabotaged Brenna''s dresses the previous night, prompting what she assumed was a revenge act.


    Yet, she couldn''t reveal that she was the person who had ruined Brenna''s clothes.


    The wee banquet the night before had been bustling with guests, and the room where the dresses were stored wasn''t under surveince since it was designated for guest use. Therefore, no one could definitively pin the dress sabotage on her.


    The incident had been a topic of discussion among the Harper familyst night, with everyone denying any


    involvement.


    Shepard and Giselle had been particrly upset, having put considerable effort into organizing the banquet


    themselves. Fortunately, Ethan had gifted Brenna a dress. Without it, she would have had nothing to wear, and


    the Harper family would have been left in total embarrassment.


    Rosie also realized that, while her parents hadn''t directly used her of being the one responsible, it was clear


    to everyone that she and Brenna didn''t get along. She had a clear motive.


    However, they didn''t ask her outright. Instead, they simply exchanged a few knowing nces.


    In fact, Rosie was sure they had already reached a conclusion that she was behind the matter.


    It was evident now. She was an outsider. The Harper couple and their biological daughter were the true family. No matter how much she tried, she could never truly belong.


    She was furious. Her clothes had been torn, and she was certain Brenna was responsible. She said, her voice


    filled with anger, "If it wasn''t you, then who else could it be? You are the only person in this house who


    dislikes me!"


    Brenna responded calmly yet firmly, "Yes, I don''t like you, but stooping to such pettiness isn''t my style. I''d advise you not to throw around usations without evidence."


    Ethan, who had been observing the scene quietly from the doorway, looked over the remnants of the ruined garments. In his view, it was poetic justice-Rosie experiencing a dose of her own bitter medicine.


    He said, ¡°Brenna is right. usations without proof are mere defamation."


    Ethan gazed at Brenna, his eyes softening. He mused that whoever had damaged Rosie''s wardrobe had been rather restrained. After all, tearing a few dresses wasn''t exactly a severe punishment.


    After all, Rosie was wealthy enough to rece her entire closet without a dent in her finances.


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    21


    Had it been up to him, he might have nned a wardrobe malfunction during a public event to speius Posis was thoroughly embarrassed.


    Merely slicing up some dresses seemed almost too gentle,


    Ethan was aware of the incident with Brenne''s dressse at the Peace Hotel and had personally renewed the hotel''s security footage. Rosie had visited the room that stored the dresses so often that it raised suspicion, although there was no solid proof to confirm anything


    "Let''s leave," Ethan said to Brenna, tired of the pointless drams.


    Brenna, sensing Ethan''s unwavering support, felt a rush of satisfaction. She said


    with a smile, "Why don''t youe up to my room for a while?"


    "You''re not going anywhere!" Rosie eximed, her voice sharp. "There are cameras outside. Brenns, we need to review the tapes. I''m certain you''re responsible for this. You have topensate me!"


    Brenna brushed off her words and started to walk away.


    Rosie chased after her, seizing her arm to stop her. "You can''t just walk away! Pachael, pull up the surveince footage now! No one else would stoop to such petty acts,"


    Brenna turned to face her with a cold stare. "Go ahead and check it yourself. I wasn''t involved, so why should


    I bother?"


    At that moment, Dalton was drawn by the noise and descended the stairs.


    Seeing the chaos and the destroyed garments, he asked Rosie with a serious tone, "What makes you so convinced that Brenna is the culprit? Where''s your proof?"


    Rosie''s anger red. "Dalton, you too? Do you really think I''d make this up? Who else here would sh my clothes like this? The staff wouldn''t dare, and it wouldn''t be Mom, Dad, or you. Brenna is the only one with a


    motive," she said firmly.


    Dalton shook his head and said, "It''s not as clear-cut as you think. You haven''t always been the kindest to the


    staff. Perhaps someone took revenge."


    He observed the household staff who had gathered around. They all quickly defended themselves, saying it was


    not them.


    Brenna said, "Dalton''s right. Why don''t we review the surveince footage to see who went into your room?"


    Rachael, the maid in charge of Rosie''s quarters, hurriedly interjected, "Miss Rosie, I assure you, everything was in order when I cleaned this morning. It wasn''t me. Please believe me."


    She gazed at Rosie with pleading eyes.


    Rosie gave her a nod and said, "I trust you, Rachael."


    However, Rachael''s words made Rosie pause. If the clothes were intact in the morning, it couldn''t have been Brenna, as they had both been home at that time and almost left together. She had changed clothes before they both left, and everything had been normal then.


    Rosie turned her scrutiny to the remaining staff and asked, "Who else has been in my room today?"


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    The servants exchanged puzzled locks after Rosie burst into fury, each of them instinctively shaking their heads


    Rosie was furious as she pointed at the servants, shouting. I''m going to review the security rapes now Any of you found sneaking into my room will be fired immediately! This is a betrayal of the trust the Harper family


    in


    has ced in you!"


    The servants exchanged worried looks, each firmly shaking their heads in denial, puzzled over who would dare jeopardize their job by ruining Rosie''s clothes.


    At the edge of the group, Julia appeared noticeably uneasy, trying to blend into the background to avoid any


    attention


    She then brought a tray of fruit and juice into Brenna''s room.


    Ethan stood in the middle of the room, casually ncing around. His one hand was in his pocket, while the


    other held his phone as he appeared to be responding to a message.


    Julia''s eyes lingered on Ethan, captivated by his striking features and the air of detachment he exuded. Hi standing tall andposed.


    "Mr. Mitchell, your refreshments," Julia announced softly.


    Ithan, without ncing away from his phone, acknowledged with a brief ¡°Thanks¡°.


    As Julia hesitated at the doorway, Brenna returned, now dressed in a rxed ensemble of a T-shirt and denim


    shorts, her demeanor casual.


    Ethan''s eyes brightened as he took in the sight of Brenna. Even though she was wearing a simple outfit, she


    ?


    looked striking


    "You look great," he said,


    Julia, pausing before exiting, voiced her concern, saying, "Miss Brenna Harper,


    Miss Rosie Harper is checking the


    surveince footage as we speak


    Brenna responded with a calm smile, "No worries; I''ve taken care of it. The


    footage won''t reveal anything Just


    stayposed and avoid drawing attention."


    Julia''s anxiety was evident, her voice tinged with uncertainty as she said, "Are you certain that will work?"


    Despite Brenna''s unassuming appearance, her confidence belied a deeper capability not immediately apparent.


    Ethan nced at Brenna with surprise, then turned to Julia and reassured, "Trust


    in Brenna''s skills. She''s more. tech-savvy than anyone gives her credit for. Even the security staff in mypany might not notice anything"


    Comforted by Ithan''s confidence and aware of his own proficiency in mich matters, plia rted "Then am relieved I will leave now if there''s nothing ales, the end.


    Ithan had ced it together. Although Brenns hadn''t directly of Rosie''s clothes, she was certainly the one arbe


    had ordered it


    But Rosie had brought this upon herself, she didn''t deservet any sympat


    With a low chuckle, Ethan said to Brenna, "Nice work"


    Brenna could tell his tonecked sincerity "Are you mocking me?" she asked


    Brenna calmly sipped her orange juice, her expression unreadable as she waited for Ethan''s response


    Ethan let out a soft chuckle and replied in a soft tone, "Why would I Your approach might have been simple, but it effectively drove her up the wall. If she acts rashly out of anger, you''ve essentially won "


    Acknowledging the simplicity of her tactics, Brenna couldn''t help but smile. The method wasn''t sophisticated. but it did bring her a certain pleasure.


    "Why do I get the feeling you''re not really praising me?" she asked, pulling up the stock market trends on herptop and focusing on the Moreno family''s stocks


    Ethan noticed it and slowly moved closer, sitting beside Brenna. Though he hesitated to sit too near, he found himself edging closer. He breathed in the faint scent of her perfume, which caused his heart to race: He was


    unable to focus on the stock trends anymore..


    His movements became awkward, and his thoughts were scattered-he had no idea what to do next


    Brenna was entirely absorbed in the stock movements. She quickly tapped on her phone, sending a message to


    her studio''s group chat.


    "Everyone, let''s put in some extra hours today. We need to make sure the Moreno family''s stock hits the


    lowest limit tomorrow."


    Ethan identally glimpsed the message and was pulled back to reality. Quietly, he pushed his chair away, creating some space between them.


    He knew that only by keeping his distance could he think clearly. Otherwise, he feared he might act on impulse


    Just then, there was a loud knocking at the door.


    With a slight frown, Brenna rose to answer it, only to be met with Rosie''s incensed expression, with Rachael looming anxiously behind her.


    "Brenna, did you tamper with the surveince footage?" Rosie asked, storming into the room, her eyes darting to Ethan, who seemed deeply engrossed in hisputer work. His suit jacket was draped casually over the bed. Brenna and Ethan seemed like a couple who had been together for years.


    Rosie''s jealousy red when she saw them sofortable in each other''s space Brenna had known Ethan for just a few days, yet he was already here in her bedroom. Brenna was so shameless for seducing Ethan like this!


    Rosie, consumed by envy, contemted dragging Ethan away to ask him what he was thinking. Despite the fact that she had known Ethan for so long, he had never stepped into her bedroom, not once


    Chapter 106 In Her Bedroom


    What kind of trick had Brenna used to make than enter her bedroom willingly? Rosie was seething with anger.


    Brenna responded withposed assurance, "I''ve been at home this morning, and out this afternoon, I had no


    chance to tamper with anything.


    Her voice carried a mocking tone as she continued, "Couldn''t find who ruthed your clothes? Maybe you should consider filing a report to the police, given how expensive your clothes are."


    Mother''s Day Limited-Time Offer

 Chapter 107

    Chapter 107 We''ll Find A Way To Get Back At Her


    At that moment, Ernst returned home, the perfection of a seasoned businessman in his crisply tailored suit, radiating a cold aura. He had grown increasingly dissatisfied with Rosie''s recent behavior, and tonight''s incident had reached his cars through the household staff. Approaching Rosie with a stern look, he asked her sharply, "Haven''t you caused enough trouble for one evening? You''ve made serious usations against Brenna without evidence. What justifies this?"


    Rosie felt a deep sense of injustice. It seemed that no one in the family trusted her anymore. Tears began to fill her eyes. "Ernst, how can you not believe me? Who else could have such hatred toward me, if not her?" she


    said.


    Unconvinced, Ernst countered, ¡°Brenna isn''t the kind of person who would do something like this. And even if she did dislike you, you should think about why she dislikes you but not others."


    He spotted Ethan sitting in the chair, a subtle smile flickering in his eyes. Ethan was usually upied with work. but now, he spent almost all his time with Brenna.


    "Since you''re here, why not join me for a drink? Ernst said to Ethan with a casual smile.


    Ethan agreed with a nod. "Sounds good," he said.


    Dalton, still lingering in the room, interjected, ¡°I''ll join you, too. Let''s get some snacks going as well."


    The three of them headed off, leaving Rosie to grapple with her emotions alone.


    As tears streamed down Rosie''s cheeks, Brenna passed by her with a shrug "I''m telling you, it wasn''t me. You might want to dig deeper into this-or even involve the police if necessary," she said.


    Rosie, overwhelmed by emotion, stamped her foot. Was calling the police over some clothes really worth it?


    She retreated to her room, only to find Rachael scolding the other servants. "What are you lot staring at? Didn''t you hear the request for drinks from Mr. Harper? Get moving!" she eximed.


    Once the servants left, Rachael turned to Rosie and sighed sympathetically. "Miss Harper, please calm down. I still think Miss Brenna Harper is behind this. She''s clever enough to tamper with the surveince with ease. Let''s not dwell on this matter. We''ll find a way to get back at her!"


    Rosie surveyed the damaged clothes strewn about her room, her emotions a mix of anger and frustration.


    "It has to be Brenna. But without proof, I''m at a loss! If I catch her in the act, she''ll regret it!" Rosie said in


    anger


    Rachael, sharing her frustration, said, "There''s likely someone in the family covering for her, I''ll keep my eyes open. We''ll uncover something eventually. It''s such a shame-these were beautiful clothes. But don''t worry,


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    you can shop for even better ones now."


    After calming Rosie, Rachael neatly bundled the damaged clothes into bags for disposal


    As she nced towards theughtering from the living room, her mood sank. The strong family bond was evident; both the Harper brothers supported Brennapletely, leaving Rosie without anyone to stand up for her.


    Neither of them was any good!


    As if that wasn''t enough, both brothers backed Ethan''s engagement to Brenna, behaving as though they had forgotten how kind Ethan had once been to Rosie..


    They were really heartless, selfish people!


    Once Rachael had finished her chores, she returned to Rosie''s room and updated her on what was happening downstairs


    A wave of resentment washed over Rosie as she made her way straight downstairs after hearing what Rachael


    had said.


    Rosie wore a bright smile, as if the earlier incident hadpletely slipped her mind. Entering the living room, she poured herself a ss of red wine and nced at Ernst. "Ernst, why didn''t you invite me to join you?" she


    asked.


    Ernst, caught off guard, managed a strained smile. He was perhaps the only one who still showed any warmth towards Rosie, unlike Dalton, whose indifference toward her was evident.


    Feeling a pang of sympathy, Ernst gestured to the seat next to him. He said, "Rosie,e and sit here."


    As Rosie walked closer, she could see Brenna''s barely hidden smugness, which reignited her anger. Still, she steeled herself, forcing a calm and gracious tone. "Brenna, I apologize for my earlier usations Let''s move


    past that."


    Brenna, observing Rosie''s forced politeness, couldn''t help but respect her tactfulness. Despite being rejected by everyone, she was able to act as though nothing had urred and seamlessly rejoin them.


    It seemed that she really wanted to get close to Ethan.


    "Don''t worry, I don''t hold it against you. It''s just a shame about all those beautiful clothes," Brenna said.


    Rosie struggled to maintain herposure, her smile faltering under the strain.


    Ernst, sensing her distress, quickly said, "Don''t worry about the clothes. You can get new ones tomorrow, I will


    buy them for you."


    Rosie''s mood visibly lifted at Ernst''s words. "Thank you, Ernst. You''ve always been there for me. By the way. how many have submitted work for the designpetition?" she said.


    She skillfully steered the conversation towards thepetition, a subtle reminder for Ernst. She wanted him to remember how unpleasant Brenna had been before.


    Ernst''s demeanor turned serious as he answered, "The entries have topped three thousand. Rosie, you''re not familiar with this industry, it might be best if you didn''t participate in thepetition."


    The implication was clear-he believed she was likely to fail.


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    Chapter 107 We Find A Way To Get Back At M


    you can shop for even better ones now.


    After calming Rosie, Rachael neatly bundled the damaged clothes into bags for disposal.


    As she nced towards theughtering from the living room, her mood sank. The strong family bond was evident, both the Harper brothers supported Brennapletely, leaving Rosie without anyone to stand up for


    her.


    Neither of them was any good!


    As if that wasn''t enough, both brothers backed Ethan''s engagement to Brenna, behaving as though they had forgotten how kind Ethan had once been to Rosie.


    They were really heartless, selfish people!


    Once Rachael had finished her chores, she returned to Rosie''s room and updated her on what was happening


    downstairs.


    A wave of resentment washed over Rosie as she made her way straight downstairs after hearing what Rachael


    had said.


    Rosie wore a bright smile, as if the earlier incident hadpletely slipped her mind. Entering the living room, she poured herself a ss of red wine and nced at Ernst. "Ernst, why didn''t you invite me to join you?" she


    asked.


    Ernst, caught off guard, managed a strained smile. He was perhaps the only one who still showed any warmth towards Rosie, unlike Dalton, whose indifference toward her was evident.


    Feeling a pang of sympathy, Ernst gestured to the seat next to him. He said, "Rosie,e and sit here."


    As Rosie walked closer, she could see Brenna''s barely hidden smugness, which reignited her anger. Still, she steeled herself, forcing a calm and gracious tone. "Brenna, I apologize for my earlier usations. Let''s move


    past that."


    Brenna, observing Rosie''s forced politeness, couldn''t help but respect her tactfulness. Despite being rejected by everyone, she was able to act as though nothing had urred and seamlessly rejoin them.


    It seemed that she really wanted to get close to Ethan.


    "Don''t worry, I don''t hold it against you. It''s just a shame about all those beautiful clothes," Brenna said.


    Rosie struggled to maintain herposure, her smile faltering under the strain. Ernst, sensing her distress, quickly said, "Don''t worry about the clothes. You can get new ones tomorrow; I will


    buy them for you."


    Rosie''s mood visibly lifted at Ernst''s words. "Thank you, Ernst. You''ve always been there for me. By the way. how many have submitted work for the designpetition?" she said.


    She skillfully steered the conversation towards thepetition, a subtle reminder for Ernst. She wanted him to remember how unpleasant Brenna had been before.


    Ernst''s demeanor turned serious as he answered, "The entries have topped three thousand. Rosie, you''re not familiar with this industry; it might be best if you didn''t participate in thepetition."


    The implication was clear-he believed she was likely to fail.


    17 09


    Chapter 107 We''ll Find A Way To Get Back At Her


    Yet Rosie, masking her irritation with a polite smile, responded, "I''ve been


    preparing for thepetition


    diligently, Ernst. We''ve made an agreement with Brenna, and I intend to honor it"

 Chapter 108

    Chapter 108 You Have To Help Me


    Ethan, with curiosity sparkling in his eyes, asked, "What''s this agreement about?"


    As he observed Brenna, Ethan''s thoughts drifted to the harsh treatment she endured from the Harper family, and his face hardened into a cold expression.


    Casting a nce at Ernst and Dalton, he could tell the brothers were visibly ufortable.


    With a serious tone, he asked Brenna, "What''s going on? I need to know."


    The look in his eyes, full of concern, gave Brenna strength. It reassured her, showing that he was fully behind her and easing her worries.


    Brenna briefly exined the bet they had made, and Ethan''s face tightened as he understood that Rosie and Ernst had plotted against Brenna, who had juste back to the Harper family and was in a vulnerable state, while the rest of the Harper family stood by and did nothing.


    A newfound resolve to marry Brenna stirred within him. He was eager to shield her from further misery in the Harper family.


    Brenna said, ¡°I''ve handed in my project. Now, it''s just a matter of waiting for the judges'' decision."


    Suddenly, Ethan grasped her hand, saying "Marry me now. With me by your side, you need not fret over this bet. Whether you win or lose, you''ll always find a home to live in."


    Dalton scoffed, interjecting, "Ethan, Brenna has me, her elder brother, to look out for her. She has just returned to our family-there''s no need for her to rush into marriage."


    Ignoring Dalton, Ethan focused on Brenna, asking, "How does that sound to you?"


    Brenna was caught off guard, and her checks tinged pink as she tried to withdraw her hand and replied, "Who said I''d agree to marry you?"


    A blend of disappointment and hurt crossed Ethan''s face, but he couldn''t shake the feeling that Brenna didn''t truly mean to reject him. His sudden gesture, particrly in front of her brothers, might have been too much for her to handle.


    This realization brought him a slight sense offort.


    Jealousy seethed within Rosie as she observed Ethan, her lips tightly pressed in silence. Her gaze clung to Ethan and Brenna''s intertwined hands, silently hoping for their swift separation.


    Su


    Ethan faced Ernst with a cold stare and asked, "Are you truly fine with Brenna losing everything? Will you take away her rightful ce in the Harper family if she loses the bet?"


    1709


    Ernst, his face filled with regret, opened his arms in a gesture of surrender. Even though now he recognized Brenna''s skills and a strong sense of right and wrong he felt trapped by the agreement that had already been finalized. "The deal is already made," he said "There''s nothing I can do"


    A wave of relief washed over Posle as Ernst did not challenge the bet. She attempted to reassure Brenna, "Look, don''t worry. Even if the worstes to pass and you''re cut off from the family finances, Ernst and I won''t let you suffer. We will support you financially"


    Brenna''s words came out quickly and as sharp as a de. "What if you''re the one who loses in the end? Have you ever thought about that?"


    Rosie, clearly irritated by the response, looked at Ernst and said, "Did you hear that? The disrespect. Im offering her my help, but she doesn''t appreciate it at all."


    Finding Rosie''s presence unbearable, Brenna stood up decisively and said, "I need some air. I''m going for a walk


    Ethan quickly stood up as well. "Wait, I''ll join you."


    As they walked away, their figures moved in syne. They looked like a perfect match


    Dalton watched them leave, frustration clear on his face as he turned to Rosie. "We were talking fine until you came along. You''ve pushed them away. Are you happy now?" he said.


    His mood darkened as he went upstairs, his once cheerful mood for the evening shattered by Rosie


    Rosie, feeling very aggrieved, turned to Ernst, her voice thick with frustration. "Ernst, did you hear what he said? How am I the one at fault here? My entire wardrobe was ruined, and all he does is being harsh with me instead of offering anyfort"


    Ernst, visibly annoyed yet empathetic towards Rosie, asked, "Have you identified the culprit?"


    Tears began to flow as Rosie responded, "I''ve gone through the security footage. Rachael was the only one who entered my room, but I''m sure she wouldn''t do something like this."


    With a serious look, Ernst said, "That can''t be right. If what you''re saying is true, then someone must have tampered with the footage."


    Rosie''s tears fell more freely, her emotions fueled by his support. She nodded eagerly and said, "That''s exactly what I think. But Darrell, who''s in charge of the surveince, insists he watched everything all day without any


    issues."


    Grasping Ernst''s arm desperately, she said, "You''re the only one who is willing to help me in this family, Ernst You have to help me, I''m being bullied!"


    "I''ll help you," Ernst said, recognizing the gravity of the situation. It was clear that not only was Rosie being bullied, but the security of their home had beenpromised.


    Understanding the critical nature of this matter, he immediately contacted the technical team to initiate a thorough investigation.


    Rosie, biting her lip, was convinced that she would find the person who had done this.


    "Ernst, your trust means everything to me," she said, her voice filled with deep gratitude.


    With a thoughtful expression, Ernst led Rosie towards the surveince room, determined to personally review


    17 10


    Chapter 108 You Have To Help Me


    the footage and uncover any potential bribes to the security staff at home.

 Chapter 109

    Chapter 109 How Can You


    Be So Useless


    The Harper family''s surveince system had been carefully designed to monitor onlymunal areas such as the living room and kitchen. The more private spaces-bedrooms, closets, bathrooms, and showers were deliberately left off the grid, allowing the family to retain their privacy.


    Aware of the situation involving Rosie''s ruined clothes, Darrell Vazquez, the security guard, began to suspect that someone had manipted the footage. He was already reviewing the afternoon''s recordings when Ernst and Rosie entered the room. He had gone over the tapes multiple times but had found nothing suspicious


    "I''ve gone over the footage of the afternoon, but there''s nothing unusual," Darrell said, his voice calm but tinged with frustration.


    He then brought up a clip showing Brenna leaving her room earlier that afternoon and pointed to the screen. "Here, you can see Miss Brenna Harper leaving just after noon. Ten minutester, Miss Rosie Harper left


    .Tam


    Darrell fast-forwarded the footage, scanning for any other signs of activity. For the next thirty minutes, the screen remained devoid of activity. No one entered or exited any of the rooms during that time


    Then, Darrell scrolled further. "At five o''clock, Juliaes upstairs with freshlyundered sheets and a summer quilt. She enters Miss Brenna Harper''s room. Half an hourter, shees out carrying a trash bag with the reced bedding as well as two dirty garments."


    Shortly after, Dalton was seening downstairs, passing the third-floor corner with his usual confident stride. Not long after that, Rachael entered Rosie''s room and left within ten minutes.


    Darrell, still focused on the footage, said, "From the moment Miss Rosie Harper left until her return, the only


    person


    to enter her room was Rachael"


    Ernst stood still, his gaze fixed on the screen as he sifted through the recorded footage once again. His brow furrowed in concentration. He had gone over it meticulously, ensuring every second was ounted for. Yet, everything seemed perfectly normal-there were no glitches, no sudden cuts, and certainly no indication of


    tampering


    Rosie, however, was far from satisfied. Her voice sharpened as she turned to Darrell, her toneced with usation. "Are you telling me you sat in this room all afternoon and didn''t take a single break? Didn''t leave to use the restroom or go and get some water? I find it hard to believe you didn''t step away once. If there''s any chance the footage was tampered with, it would have been during those moments."


    Darrell stiffened at her words, a rush of frustration and defensiveness building within him. He felt unjustly cornered. The harshness of the wealthy was often not subtle, and it cut deeply.


    But he held back his irritation, knowing that confronting Rosie was not an option. Instead, he answered in a low


    17:10


    Chapter 109 How Can You


    voice, "Miss Harper, I did step away briefly twice, to use the restroom and get some water. But I returned quickly both times, and no one entered the room during those moments."


    Rosie''s anger surged as she looked at Darrell, her voice sharp with usation. "Really? Just now, you said you never left, but now, you''re admitting to stepping away to use the restroom. Darrell, what are you ying at? Are you involved in something that will hurt this family? We pay you well, and this is how you do your job?"


    Her words, filled with mounting frustration, made her hands tremble he couldn''t seem to control her irritation. "If you''re incapable of doing your job properly, then leave. We offer high sries, and I''m sure there are plenty of people eager to take your ce," she said.


    Darrell''s heart sank as he listened, the weight of Rosie''s harsh words crushing him. His face flushed with humiliation. The sting of being publicly rebuked was one thing, but the usation felt unfair, especially considering the effort he had put into his work. He nced at Ernst, silently pleading for support, hoping the usuallyposed man might intervene.


    But Ernst remained coldly focused on the footage, his brow furrowed in intense concentration. He scrutinized the screen with mechanical precision, rewinding and fast-forwarding


    Rosie''s re bore into Darrell, her tone usatory. "It must have been during the time you left the surveince room that the footage was tampered with."


    Darrell''s frustration began to boil over. The unfairness of it all was suffocating. Why was he being med for something that clearly wasn''t his fault? Was it simply because he was just a security guard here-easy to


    dismiss, easy to target?


    With a deep breath, Darrell steadied himself, trying to maintain hisposure. "Miss Harper, there is surveince in the monitoring room as well. You can review it yourself. No one entered while I was away. I did my job, just as I was asked," he said.


    Rosie''s eyes narrowed, her disdain evident as she red at Darrell "So, you have the nerve to talk back to me now? Exin this, then; no one entered my room, but my clothes were ruined. Those weren''t just any clothes.. They were worth millions. You couldn''t evenpensate me for even one piece with a lifetime''s wages."


    Darrell''s heart sank as the words hit him like a blow. He wanted to respond, to defend himself, but the weight of Rosie''s words left him momentarily speechless. He knew she was right about the clothes, but the humiliation in her tone, the way she treated him as if he were nothing more than an inconvenience, made him feel small. He clenched his fists at his sides, frustration rising within him


    Inwardly, Darrell cursed Rosie repeatedly, but outwardly, he maintained a calm facade, enduring the brunt of her rage without a single word of protest.


    Rosie''s frustration boiled over as she turned to Ernst. "Ernst, did you find anything amiss?" she asked.


    Ernst remained calm, his face neutral as he shook his head and said, "The surveince footage is intact. I''ve checked the surveince footage of the monitoring room as well. No one entered during Darrell''s absence."


    Rosie''s eyes shed with frustration, her hands trembling with fury. "Then what? A ghost did it, perhaps? My clothes couldn''t have been ruined just like that."


    She spun


    toward Darrell again, her voice biting. "How can you be so useless? If you can''t figure this out, you''ll be packing your bags tomorrow. You will be fired if you can''t find the culprit!"


    17.10


    Chapter 109 How Can You Be So Useless


    After meticulously reviewing the surveince footage, Trnnt turned to Darrell His gaze was intense yet calm, his voice steady as he asked, "Darrell, think carefully. Was there anything unusual today that we might have


    overlooked?"


    Before Darrell could respond, Rosie''s sharp voice interjected, filled with frustration, "Why bother asking him? He can''t even handle a minor issue like this. Ernst, just fire him and the entire security team while you''re at it. Hirepetent people who can actually do their job."


    The words hit Darrell like a punch. Panic rose within him. The Job for the Harper family''s security guard had always beenfortable, with generous pay and benefits. He had grown ustomed to the ease of it all. Now, he was faced with the threat of losing it all, and his thoughts raced. "Please, give me another chance. I''ll go over everything again and investigate thoroughly," he pleaded, his voice faltering as his grip on the situa slipped further.


    Darrell couldn''t shake the feeling of misfortune that had suddenly overtaken him. Working for the Harper family had been easy for years, with no major issues. Now, when things had gone wrong, he found himself caught in the crossfire, vulnerable and powerless.


    Rmended for you

 Chapter 110

    Chapter 110 Everyone Is A Suspect


    Julia paused at the entrance of the surveince room, peeking inside with a curious gaze. She wanted to see if Ernst would find any signs of tampering with the surveince footage.


    Ernst, however, found no evidence of any tampering.


    With a subtle smile, Julia quietly left the area.


    She thought of Brenna''s words earlier. This issue must be kept confidential, never exposed. She was to behave as if everything were normal, as any deviation might lead to suspicion.


    Moving away from the surveince room, she bumped into Rachael, who


    approached her with an intense expression and immediately asked, "Where have you been?"


    Julia let out a dismissive snort, brushing off Rachael''s demand. "That''s none of your concern," she said coldly


    Rachael''s suspicion toward Julia intensified, and she said, "You were near the security and surveince area. What were you doing there? Were you the one who ruined Miss Harper''s clothes?"


    Julia''s anxiety spiked, regretting not taking Brenna''s advice seriously and her decision to check the surveince footage, which now made Rachael suspicious of her.


    Her thoughts flickered to the storage room near the surveince room, which housed the Harper family''s seldom-used belongings and daily essentials like hygiene products.


    Luckily, her quick thinking had led her to take a pack of sanitary pads from the storage room earlier.


    Holding them up to Rachael, she said, "I just went to get these. Why are you making such usations? Just because there''s an incident, you are paranoid. You can''t use me of something without proof."


    Rachael saw the sanitary pads but made no apology for her unfounded suspicion. Instead, she scolded Julia, "Why are you raising your voice at me? The incident happened, and now, everyone is a suspect. Your behavior is suspicious, so what''s wrong with me asking?"


    Julia responded sharply, "Why would anyone here be a suspect? The Harper familypensates the servants well, and we enjoy our work. No one would risk losing their job over this. Plus, Miss Rosie Harper''s clothes are valued in the millions. None of us could cover that cost even if we saved for a lifetime. If a servant were responsible, they''d face jail. I doubt any servant is involved. Rachael, even if you want to impress Rosie, you should think more logically."


    She then rolled her eyes and walked off, muttering under her breath, "What an idiot."


    Rachael was seething with anger, but she couldn''t deny that Julia had a valid point.


    She muttered to herself, "Could it be Brenna who did this? But Brenna wasn''t at home this afternoon."


    17:10


    Chapter 110 Everyone is A tamperi


    In the surveince room, Ernst was speaking to Rosie Holding his phone, he asked, "Should we involve the police?


    Rosie''s day had been difficult. Her two friends had suffered beause of a reckless suggestion she made they hadined to her for hours. After persistent persuasion, she calmed them by promising addition business orders for their families, Higgins and Morrison Sylvie and Vivian eventually forgave her, further calmed by the shopping cards she provided, each loaded with a significant amount of money


    Rosie said, "Torget it; I''ll just consider myself unlucky this time. If this bes public, it''s the Harper family that will be humiliated. It''s only a few dresses, after all. Let''s not bother the police "


    The following morning, Han awoke in his hospital bed, and his first act was to check the stock prices for the Moreno family on his phone. Seeing the numbers plummet filled him with anxiety


    Within the first hour of the market opening, his family''s market value had diminished by billions, hitting the lowest trading limit!


    He was in disbelief, staring at his phone in shock, his anxiety mounting He said in distress, "No, no, the Moreno family is ruined! What do we do now?"


    Thiago''s warning echoed in his mind, indicating this was only the start.


    His thoughts were chaotic, and he was struggling to predict Thiago''s next moves.


    Trembling, he dialed Roberto, who sounded tired when he answered the call after several rings. "Han, what''s the matter? Is your health worsening?" Roberto asked.


    His voice was filled with concern and sorrow.


    Gripping his phone tightly, Han responded, "Dad, I''m okay. But our stock value has plummeted, reaching the lowest limit. We''ve lost billions. You need toe up with a n, or how will I maintain my luxurious lifestyle?"


    Roberto was filled with frustration and anger after hearing that "In a time like this, when the family is in trouble, you''re focused on your luxurious lifestyle instead of finding solutions!" he eximed.


    On the phone, Roberto unleashed a stream of harsh words at his son, his anger burning strong


    Yet, Han felt his concerns were justified. After enduring his father''s lengthy scolding, he suggested a strategy to rescue the family. "Dad, you have connections with some bank managers. Why not secure a loan using ourpany as coteral? We must prevent bankruptcy!" he said.


    Roberto exploded in anger, shouting. "You fool! That''s not wise. Do you want our family to go bankrupt?"


    At that moment, his secretary knocked and rushed in. "Mr. Moreno, we''ve got a problem. The tax officials are here. Someone has reported us for tax evasion, and they''re demanding our cooperation with their investigation."

 Chapter 111

    Chapter 111 Uninvited


    Roberto''s frustration mounted as problemspounded like unrelenting storma


    He spoke to his son with a cold tone. "You''ve always been close to Rosie, haven''t you Go to her for help The Harper family wields significant power and wealth-they can certainly assist us if they choose to if you''re serious about maintaining the luxurious lifestyle you''ve grown ustomed to, you need to do your part to support the Moreno family.


    With those words, Roberto ended the call abruptly and left with his secretary to meet with representatives from


    the tax buteau.


    Left in silence, Han sat in contemtion for a long while. His father''s words echoed in his mind, and he couldn''t deny their truth. The Harper family, a formidable and powerful family in Shirie and Belden, ranked only second to the Mitchells


    His friendship with Rosie had indeed been mutually beneficial, though often requiring morally questionablepromises on his part. This particr mess, too, had been set in motion by Rosie. Had she not pushed him to target Brenna, perhaps his family wouldn''t be in trouble now.


    A steely resolve hardened Han''s features. Rising from the bed, he changed swiftly and strode out of the hospital.


    As the clock struck noon, Brenna gathered with her studio colleagues, preparing to head to the downstairs restaurant, when her phone vibrated on the desk.


    Ethan was calling her. She quickly answered the call.


    "Brenna, let''s have lunch together. I''ll pick you up." Ethan said.


    Brenna hesitated, weighing the invitation. She had a packed schedule with an important task ahead in the afternoon, and lunch was thest thing on her mind. Still, she didn''t want to be rude. "I really have a lot on my te this afternoon," she exined, trying to keep her voice polite. "It might not be convenient."


    Ethan stood at the top floor of the Mitchell Group building, his gaze sweeping over the vast cityscape of Shirte The city stretched beneath him, its towering structures glistening under the fading sunlight. His voice remained steady as he said, "It''ll only take a short while, I promise. Where are you? I''ll go and pick you up now."


    Despite hisck of experience in romantic pursuits, Ethan''s sincerity shone through in his words. He was unassuming but determined, the faintest smile ying on his lips as he added, "Come on. Just have lunch with


    Brenna hesitated for a moment before replying, her voice tinged with resignation, "Alright, but I need to leave by one o''clock. Are you sure you''ll be able toe here to pick me up in time?"


    Ethan''s confidence remained unwavering. "Yes, I am sure. Just send me the address-I''ll head over immediately."


    17.10


    < Cated


    When Brenns shared her location, Ethan recognized it we conveniently close to his office


    After the call ended, Ethan met Jayceon''s anxious stare "Well yeon asked, his voice taut with urgency D


    the agree?"


    Ithan nodded and rubbed his hand through his hair, his thoughts shifting "Yeah, the agreed But you need to wait at the restaurant first. I''ll pick her up myself He paused for a moment, then added, "By the way, you should know that she seemed pretty upset with you the other day Don''t be surprised if she''s not exactly thrilled to see you. If she refuses to disclose Miss Moore''s whereabouts, there''s nothing more I can do


    The memory of Brenna''s icy demeanor toward Jayceon remained vivid, her sharp words had left no roo


    misunderstanding


    for


    While Jayceon was among his closest friends, Ethan wasn''t willing to jeopardize his fragile connection with the woman who held his heart for Jayceon.


    Jayceon gave Ethan''s shoulder a reassuring squeeze. ¡°Understood. I''ll tread carefully You''re my only hope in. this-if Miss Harper refuses to speak to me, you''ll need to subtly probe for information. His voice carried note of quiet desperation.


    Ethan''s mouth formed a tight line, his disapproval evident in the stiff set of his shoulders. Yet he remained silent, caught between loyalty to his friend and his feelings for Brenna


    Jayceon, undeterred by Ethan''s reserved response, left the room with a renewed sense of determination. His mind raced with thoughts of Ellie. He had spent so long thinking about her-about the things they had done together and the mistakes he had made. He couldn''t wait to apologize to her, to finally express what had been weighing on his heart for so long. The idea of seeing her again made him feel a mixture of nerves and


    anticipation.


    In the elevator, Jayceon allowed himself a moment of reflection. He thought about the small, seemingly insignificant details-how Ellie wouldugh when she found something amusing, how her eyes would soften when she talked about her dreams, and the way she always seemed to know how to make him feel understood.


    More than her beauty, it was her warmth, her character, that had captivated him. He knew now, without question, that if he found her again, he wouldmit himself to herpletely. He would never look at anyone else, and he would make sure to convince his family to ept her as part of his life.


    Meanwhile, Ethan''s car pulled up to an office building, where Brenna waited. Her silhouette was framed against the ss facade of the building, her posture rxed.


    Brenna hadn''t yet revealed her connection to the two studios inside the building to Ethan, preferring to keep


    that a secret for now.


    "You made it here faster than I expected," Brenna remarked, her tone light.


    Ethan opened the car door for Brenna with a fluid motion, stepping aside to allow her in before slipping into the driver''s seat himself. The soft hum of the engine filled the brief silence as he turned to her, his voice warm "My office is just down the financial street, so it didn''t take me long to get here. After lunch, where would you like to go next? If you need a ride, I''ll take you there," he said.


    Brenna''s polite smile was apanied by a slight shake of her head. "Thank you, but I have some personal


    Chapter 111 Unnvited


    errands to run after the meal. No need to trouble yourself further."


    Ethan nodded understandingly, not pressing the issue. He valued her privacy and respected her boundaries.


    The car glided smoothly through the city, soon pulling up in front of an upscale restaurant, owned by one of Ethan''s good friends. It had an inviting, sophisticated atmosphere-tastefully decorated with a bnce of elegance andfort. The restaurant''s well-curated menu, a perfect blend of fresh, quality ingredients, attracted a crowd of people working nearby Ethan, familiar with the ples, knew the food here would suit


    Brenna''s tastes.


    Brenna looked around with appreciation as she entered. The modern but warm d¨¦cor immediately captured her attention and made her feelfortable.


    Once Ethan and Brenna were seated, the waiter quickly began bringing out the dishes. To Brenna''s surprise, three main courses were presented, as if more people were expected. She raised an eyebrow, looking at Ethan


    "Did you invite someone else?" she inquired, a hint of curiosity in her voice. Before Ethan could respond, the sound of footsteps approached. Jayceon emerged from the corner of the restaurant, walking toward them with a confident air. He offered Brenna a polite smile and extended his hand in greeting "Miss Harper, it''s good to see you again. I hope I''m not interrupting anything," he said.


    The warmth in Brenna''s expression evaporated almost immediately. She had not expected Jayceon to be here, and his presence made her feel displeased. Their previous interactions hadn''t exactly been smooth, and with Ellie still not ready to see Jayceon again, Brenna wasn''t sure how to handle this.


    Brenna''s response was measured, her voice steady but firm. "I''m sorry, but I''m not interested in speaking with you right now." She didn''t hide the irritation in her gaze as she turned to Ethan, a silent rebuke in her eyes. She was disappointed by his decision to bring Jayceon into the meal without consulting her first.

 Chapter 112

    Chapter 112 Please, Just Tell Me Where Ellie Is


    Brenna felt irritation bubble up inside her. Her stomach growled in obvious protest, but the exquisite dishes spread before her failed to stir any appetite.


    Still attempting to maintain his usual gentlemanly charm, Jayceon let his eyes show unmistakable sadness, tinged with apology and regret


    He was a regr here, so he had a bottle of wine tucked away in the restaurant''s wine cab. He retrieved the bottle from the cab, uncorked it, and poured a ss for Brenna, then three for himself, and finally one for


    Ethan.


    Lifting his ss toward Brenna, he said, "Miss Harper, I know you have been in touch with Ellie. I have made mistakes over the years and realize I have hurt her deeply. However, not a single day has passed without her crossing my mind. Believe me when I say my heart yearns for her return. As a gesture of my sincerity, I''ll drink these three sses of wine. You can drink as much or as little as you wish."


    Ethan quietly observed from the sidelines, noting the pungent aroma of alcohol surrounding Jayceon. Ever since Brenna had brought up Ellie to provoke him, Jayceon had been hitting the bottle heavily, drowning his sorrows day in and day out, seldom clear-headed.


    He gave Jayceon a pat on the shoulder but remained silent.


    Brenna eyed the ss of wine in front of her, making no move to drink it.


    With a sharp edge to her voice, she said, ¡°Mr. Russell, you im you haven''t forgotten Ellie, yet from what I have seen, your life has been a revolving door of women since she left. How can you say she is still in your heart? It seems to me you already erased her from your memory a long time ago."


    Her gaze was icy, brimming with disdain as she fixed her eyes on Jayceon. She didn''t believe a single word he had just said. She believed he was lying through his teeth, treating her like a fool in the proce


    Jayceon''s chest tightened with regret. He had spent years surrounding himself with women who bore fleeting resemnces to Ellie because he longed for her. He said, "I know I was wrong. But I didn''t love them. I only love Ellie. Please, just tell me where Ellie is. I''ll do anything"


    Brenna scoffed sharply, rolling her eyes in disbelief. The man sitting across from her had a knack for sweet- talking women. Otherwise, Ellie wouldn''t have willingly brought his child into the world after they split up. But Brenna wasn''t Ellie; her patience for maniptive jerks like Jayceon was non-existent.


    "You are wasting your breath. I don''t know where Ellie is. I haven''t spoken to her in a long time," Brenna said tly.


    Jayceon grew visibly agitated, unable to hide his disbelief. "You are lying. If that were true, you wouldn''t have stood up for her that day or questioned me like you did. You know exactly where she is. Please tell me where


    17.10


    Chapter 112 Please. Just Tell Me Where Elle


    she is. I''m begging you," he said.


    Brenna''s response was unwavering "I''m sorry, but I really don''t know where she is."


    Jayceon was at his wit''s end. If Brenna hadn''t been someone Ethan cared about, he might have lost his temper


    and hit her rather than plead with her.


    He said. This doesn''t add up. If you know about my history with Ellie, it means your rtionship with her isn''t just casual. Even if you don''t know where she is right now, you must have a way to contact her. Tell me how to get in touch with her, and I''ll do whatever you want. Just name it."


    Brenna cast him an impassive nce. He was sharp to have put the pieces together. However, Ellie had made it clear to her that no matter the circumstance, she was not to reveal any information about her whereabouts, let


    alone the existence of her son.


    Without responding, Brenna picked up her fork and began eating slowly, deliberately ignoring Jayceon, no matter how hard he tried to change her mind.


    Ethan knew Brenna wasn''t the type to back down easily. Once she made up her mind, there was no changing it. He silently promised himself never to cross her or to betray her trust. He knew all too well that if he did, he


    would never be forgiven.


    Jayceon had run out of ways to plead, yet he kept begging Brenna. He had never lowered himself like this for anyone before, nor had he ever spoken so earnestly.


    The longer Brenna listened to Jayceon''s desperate appeals, the more her anger red; memories of the hardships she and Ellie had endured in Norview flooded back.


    "When Ellie first left you, life was brutal. Her family disapproved of her choices and cut her offpletely. To this day, years have passed, and she still hasn''t reached out to them. And all of this is because of you. Mr. Russell, you didn''t just wrong her; you shattered her entire world. And let''s not forget the endless string of


    women you


    have paraded around all these years," Brenna said sharply, feeling a surge of anger on Ellie''s behalf. What woman in her right mind would ever want someone like Jayceon?


    If it weren''t for Ellie wanting her son to know his father, she never would have swallowed her pride ande


    back to see Jayceon.


    Brenna continued, "Put yourself in Ellie''s shoes for a moment. Imagine if she had been constantly surt by men these past years-how would you feel? Could you honestly say you would take her back without a second thought? Mr. Russell, please stop pestering me. I truly don''t know where she is now. All I know is she is pursuing a career in fashion design."


    A flicker of hope lit up in Jayceon''s eyes. While he still didn''t know where Ellie was, he had managed to learn something about her. He was convinced that if he kept pressing Brenna, he would eventually uncover Ellie''s


    whereabouts.


    Jayceon said, "Thank you for telling me this. I know I don''t deserve her. But just knowing how she is doing now and getting to see her even just once-would be enough to satisfy me for a lifetime."


    < The atoms

 Chapter 113

    Chapter 113 She Wants To Break Up With Me


    Jayceon looked at Brenna expectantly He hoped she would tell him where Elle


    was


    However, firenna didn''t even nce his way the lowered her head and kept her eyes on her te, continuing


    to eat. Her phone sat face down on the table, still connected to the call with Ellie


    She had earphones in. Neither Jayceon nor Ethan could hear Ellie''s voice even if she spoke


    But Brenna could hear Ellie loud and clear, even through the soft sobs. "Don''t tell him where I am," Elle said


    Brenna looked up at Jayceon again. There was no pity in her expression, only coldness. Even after all these years, even with a six-year-old son in the middle of it all, Ellie still couldn''t find it in herself to forgive him. Brenna didn''t me her, nor did she have ns to change her mind


    If it hadn''t been for Ellie''s son begging to find his father, Ellie might have never even thought about Jayceon


    again.


    Brenna saw no reason to forgive this heartless man on her friend''s behalf.


    She set her fork down, wiped her mouth, and stood. Then, she picked up her phone and said. "I''m done eating.


    I''m leaving now."


    Her eyesnded on Ethan, just as cold. She wasn''t pleased that he had brought Jayceon here without asking for


    her opinion first.


    Jayceon moved to stop her, hoping to press her further, but Ethan stepped in and held him back


    He then chased after Brenna and eventually caught up with her at the door. He said, "I''m sorry. Jayceon''s a good friend of mine. He begged me, and I couldn''t just say no to him."


    Brenna didn''t soften. She looked at him like he was a stranger she had only just met. Then, she slid the ring off her finger and held it out to him. She said, "If you can betray me for him today, then you can betray me for anyone tomorrow. Let''s end this. We''re not right for each other."


    Ethan didn''t know how to respond. He hadn''t defended Jayceon. He had only brought him here. And now, she was this upset?


    "Brenna, don''t be like this..." He fumbled for the right words. He had never been good atforting anyone. He took her hand, pushed the ring back onto her finger, and continued, "I refuse to break up with you. Our families have a marriage agreement. And out of the three Harper sisters, I''ve made up my mind. I choose you."


    Brenna grew irritated and tried to yank her hand away, but Ethan''s grip tightened. "Let go! This isn''t the dark. ages. Who still follows outdated engagement traditions? I''m not some bargaining chip, and marriage isn''t a business deal. Why should I marry you just because you said so?"


    Chapter 1135he Wants to


    Ethan knew she was angry. He hadn''t meant to offend her or make her feel cornered But her anger hit him. harder than he had expected, and for a moment, he felt apologetic without knowing how to make it right


    After a while, he said, "That''s not what I meant. I just meant Infhappy with you. I hope you''ll think about the engagement. Us being together would help both the Mitchells and the Harpers."


    Brenna finally broke free of his hold and scoffed in frustration, "The Harper family has three daughters. And for the record, it wasn''t my dad who saved your father. It was Audrey''s. If you''re so determined to honor that debt, go marry Audrey! I don''t have time for these pointless promises."


    She then turned on her heel and walked off, leaving Ethan standing there,pletely at a loss.


    Jayceon approached from behind, still hanging on to the smallest shred of hope. "So, did she tell you anything about Ellie?" he asked.


    Ethan shook his head dejectedly. "No. I shouldn''t have brought you. Now she wants to break up with me," he


    said.


    Jayceon didn''t get it, and the two of them went back to their seats and picked up where they left off with the


    meal


    "Why is she being so petty? I just asked her a question. Why take it out on you?" Jayceon said.


    Ethan let out a sigh and tossed back a ss of wine. "I don''t know. I''ll ask Neville. He''s got more experience dealing with women," he said.


    Jayceon drained his own ss and set it down hard. He had already made up his mind to arrange for his people to follow Brenna without telling anyone. Maybe that way, he''d find something that would lead him to Ellis


    He pulled out his phone and sent a few messages, making sure Ethan didn''t notice. There was no doubt Ethan would stop him from doing this if he knew.


    After Jayceon hit send, he leaned back in his chair and said, "I''ve got plenty of experience with women, too. You should be asking me. She is probably just mad because you brought me here without asking her permission. It''s the kind of thing that''d tick her off. But I don''t think she really means to break up with you."


    Ethan nodded in agreement. He started to feel a little better, but the relief was short-lived. Just then, his phone suddenly buzzed. He nced down and saw a message from Brenna.


    "Let''s break up. I''ll send the engagement ring to your office."


    Ethan stared at the screen, reading the message over and over. Just moments ago, Jayceon''s words had given him hope. But now, it felt like someone had pulled the rug out from under him.


    He hurried to type


    pe out a sincere apology. Neville once told him that when a whose fault it was; just apologize.


    n got mad, it didn''t matter


    Ethan typed a few lines, but he deleted them and started again. He kept rewriting until he thought he had it just right. Then he hit send. A secondter, the screen shed the one thing he hadn''t expected. He had already been blocked by Brenna.

 Chapter 114

    Chapter 114 The Undercity


    Brenna stepped out of the restaurant, barely making it a few strides before spotting Joe Valdez leaning casually against a sleek ck business car nearby. He had been waiting for her for quite some time.


    Joe was in his early thirties and managed her financial consulting firm. Today, he looked effortlesslyid-back in charcoal gray pants, a crisp white T-shirt, and an open beige shirt. His ck framed ssespleted the look


    With a knowing smile, he pulled open the car door and said to Brenna, "I already prepared the clothes you asked for. They are in the back seat."


    Brenna slid into the car without hesitation. Wasting no time, she swiftly put on the clothes. Once ready, she rapped her knuckles against the window. Taking his cue, Joe got in, fired up the engine, and steered them toward the Undercity.


    Despite the name, the Undercity wasn''t some hidden, underground structure. It was an insider term used in certain circles to refer to a specific location.


    The Undercity was located in a decaying factory on the city''s outskirts. The ce was vast, its workshops abandoned and worn down. A five-story building stood in the southwest corner, its exterior paint peeling and


    faded with age.


    No one would have imagined that within an area covered in wild, overgrown nts, there was a team of specialists from different fields.


    Brenna stepped smoothly out of the car, clearly familiar with her surroundings. Not a flicker of surprise crossed


    her face.


    She now wore a loose-fitting, dark gray outfit paired with a striking white phantom mask. The oversized hood of her sweatshirt drooped forward, casting deep shadows and covering most of her face. With the mask in ce, her face waspletely obscured.


    Joe wore an identical mask, his hood pulled up to cover his face as well. Silently, he handed Brenna a voice changer before the two made their way toward the abandoned building.


    Inside, the building still looked untouched and abandoned, filled with old, grimy windows and doors.


    "Watch your step," Joe said to Brenna thoughtfully.


    Before long, they arrived at a door at the far end of the third floor.


    A man dressed in ck opened it. He wore a mask like theirs, making it


    impossible to see his face. His voice was raspy, leading Brenna to believe he was also using a voice changer.


    "Who are you two?" he asked coldly.


    "I''m King," Brenna replied.


    She tried to get a look inside, but the man''s tall, solid framepletely blocked the already narrow doorway.


    17-10


    Chapter 114 The Undercity


    The man studied her carefully, noting her tall, slim figure and guessing she might be a young woman He couldn''t pinpoint her age, and the man beside her was tall.


    This left him uncertain whether the man was an assistant or a bodyguard.


    He leaned toward thetter, concluding that a woman wouldn''t daree to such a ce alone


    His voice remained cold as he said, "I didn''t expect the infamous financial wizard, King to be a woman.


    Brenna didn''t waste time on small talk "Enough talk. Let''s get to work," she said sharply


    Only then did the man step aside, motioning for them to enter. The room was spacious and filled with dozens of staff, all wearing masks. Each person was hunched over aputer screen, immersed in financial data and stock market trends.


    A man dressed in ck, his face hidden behind a ck warrior mask, stood behind one of the staff members,


    his eyes glued to the screen.


    Brenna approached him, a strange sense of familiarity creeping over her as she caught a faint trace of his scent, but she quickly brushed it aside. She cut straight to the point. "Where is the money?" she asked


    The man who had opened the door earlier moved from the corner, carrying two bags. He dropped them to the floor and unzipped them, revealing bundles of cash stacked neatly inside.


    He said, "As you requested, the full twenty million in untraceable cash. The remaining twenty million will be delivered once the job is done."


    Joe crouched down, casually picked up two stacks of bills to examine them, and then nodded at Brenna. "We


    can start now."


    Ethan nced skeptically at the fragile-looking woman in front of him, finding it hard to believe she was the infamous financial wizard known as King.


    But no matter her gender or age, as long as she could solve his current problem, it didn''t matter.


    Ethan urged impatiently, "You need to hurry. The market is about to crash. If you don''t move fast, I''ll lose billions, and my shares will be stolen."


    If his team was good enough to handle these ruthless hackers, he wouldn''t have shelled out a fortune to hire


    King


    Sensing the tension in his voice, Brenna patted the staff member frantically typing on the keyboard and said,


    "You, get up.


    The staff member immediately stood, sweat trickling down his chin-a clear sign of just how dire the stock market situation had be.


    Brenna took his seat but didn''t immediately jump into action. Instead, she carefully studied the data disyed on the screen, soon realizing it belonged to apany trading on an illegal online tform-not the well-known stock market, but a secret underground tradingwork.


    The transactions here were mind-boggling, with no caps on stock fluctuations. If apany was targeted, it could be obliterated in a single day, potentially even owing debts.


    Competition here was ruthless, a game only the bravest dared to y.


    17:10


    Ocbout besication. Brents losed be firstmand, saying "Code A259, buy in two billion


    Mother''s Day Limited-Time Offer


    GO NOW

 Chapter 115

    Chapter 115 Do You Trust


    Me Now


    Brenna carefully watched the curve disyed on the screen and then turned her attention to the rapidity changing financial data on the right. The Undercity''s financialwork was linked to a ndestine international financial system, where figures shifted instantaneously. Her objective was to gather information to uncover the orchestrators behind the fluctuations and their actual motives.


    She soon pinpointed her objective and said, "Code G1500, buy in 32 billion! Ks27s, buy in 192 bio!"


    Ethan observed her actions from behind, his brow creased with concern. Standing next to him, Neville also took note of Brenna''s maneuvers and, confused, asked, "By doing this, aren''t you aiding the opposition in


    undermining us?".


    Pointing at the plummeting curve on the screen, he continued, "Look! Our stocks are dropping even more rapidly now, rmingly so. Your actions have just erased 40 billion from our value in moments! Can you afford topensate us for such a loss?"


    Other staff members also shifted their focus to Brenna, showing their discontent and questioning her judgmen


    "What do you understand? Before I got here, you all had been attempting to stabilize the market for a long time, hadn''t you? Was it working? Did you ever uncover the true intent behind your adversaries actions Brenna responded.


    The staff, although annoyed, knew she had a point. They understood that their rivals were deliberately driving down the ck Dragon stock market and had acquired some shares, yet the rivals'' purchases were not as forceful, leaving them confused about their intentions


    An irritated Neville asked, "So, have you figured their intentions out?"


    Brenna kept her eyes on the dynamic data on the right screen. "Obviously, I have. I''m much more capable than your ineffective team. Why else would I boldly use the code name King? If I''m correct, there''s a substantial reserve fund you haven''t yet tapped into."


    Ethan asked, "How did youe to know that?¡±


    Brenna answered, "It''s all in the data. Do you


    trust t me now?"


    Her fingers then flew over the keyboard, nearly blurring with speed.


    As she continued to work, the curve on the central screen began to ascend.


    Both Ethan and Neville watched in disbelief, mouths open. Neville remarked, "I never thought you''d be able to turn things around like that "


    Brenna issued further instructions, and the staff, now convinced of her abilities,plied without hesitation.


    1711


    Two hourster, Ethan''s stock, code named ck Dragon, not only recovered to its former level but even


    exceeded it slightly


    Shortly thereafter, Brenna exited the derelict factory with Joe, h carrying two begr


    th


    Brenna was tired of making money in such a demanding way, but her living expenses were skyrocketing


    That evening, when Brenna arrived home, she found Rosie in an unusy cheerful mood, lounging on the living room sofa, busy with work Posie''sptopy open on the coffee table, and she was grinning as she said to the phone, "Handle that order now. You can deliver within ten days, right?


    After ending the call, Rosie turned to Brenna with a challenging look and said, ¡°I went shopping for a lot of new clothes today. Don''t pretend you were not the one who ruined my clothes"


    Brenna brushed off her usation and said, "You have no proof, so your usation carries no weight. You better not use me without solid proof"


    She then gave a lightugh "Now that we''re past the middle of summer, aren''t your so-called new clothes just unsold stock from the store? If you wear them out, you might easily encounter womeone else in the same outfit"


    Rosie''s face fell, and she shot Brenna a furious look. "That''s not possible. I picked up thetest styles. You never dressed well when you lived with the Barrett family, did you? Only cheap clothing gets marked down during sales. Our designer brandsunch new lines all year round. You surely don''t think rich people wait for sales to shop, do you? We buy whenever we feel like it," she said.


    She then shot Brenna a look of disgust. "You pathetic little country bumpkin!"


    Brenna tapped her phone a few times and then held it up for Rosie to see. The screen showed a model dressed identically to Rosie. Brenna smirked


    She said, "Look at this. The outfit you''re wearing came out in May. Do you still think they''re new now?"


    Brenna shook her head. "You were raised in the Harper family, among the elite, yet you can''t distinguish between new andst season''s styles?"


    Rosie stomped her foot in irritation and rushed upstairs to verify if all the clothing she had purchased that day was indeedst season''s designs.


    After checking that, she was seething The store clerk had tricked her, iming the clothes were the freshest styles from just a few days ago, exclusive to Shirie.


    Once in her bedroom, Rosie snapped photos of her clothes and searched for them online, only to discover her supposed new outfit widely avable in online stores for a fraction of what she had paid.


    Enraged, she took off the dress she had thought was the most stylish and expensive of her purchases.


    She then grabbed her phone to call the store clerk and said, "I''m returning these clothes!

 Chapter 116

    Chapter 116 Mitchell Family Proposes Marriage


    Brenna stepped into her bedroom, slung her backpack onto the desk, and fished out her phone to check her


    messages. A


    new friend request popped up on the screen. Curious, she tapped it open and saw it was from Ethan. She ignored it without a second thought.


    Just then, rhythmic knocks echoed against her door.


    Brenna nced up to see Giselle standing in the doorway, a warm smile on her face. She was holding a sleek beige backpack that was effortlessly stylish.


    Brenna set her phone aside and returned the smile. "Mom," she said.


    Giselle stepped inside, ced the backpack on the desk, and said, "I''ve noticed you like carrying backpacks. A few days ago, I was in more and saw this one. It''s simple and stylish, and I thought it would suit you. perfectly. So, I bought it for you. I hope you like it."


    The backpack was stylish yet simple, with just one additional pocket for putting a phone. Brenna unzipped it to peek inside, it was surprisingly spacious, ideal for carrying herptop.


    Brenna had always known that Giselle had great taste and would never buy anything that didn''t meet her high


    standards.


    "I love it," Brenna said, reaching for her mother''s hand and guiding her to sit beside her. "Mom, is there something you wanted to talk about?¡±


    Brenna wasn''t one to be overly talkative, especially not with the Harper family. Her parents loved her deeply, but there was always a distance between them she couldn''t bridge, leaving her with a constant feeling of


    disconnection.


    Her expression remained calm and reserved.


    Giselle had always strived to give her daughter the best and treat her well. She said, "Earlier, Ethan''s father called your dad. They talked about the idea of our familiesing together through an arranged marriage They want you and Ethan to get married. What do you think?"


    Brenna hadn''t seen thising. She was certain it was Ethan''s idea. After their argument earlier today, they had broken up for good Ethan had failed to earn her forgiveness, so he had resorted to involving their families It felt like a petty act of revenge to her, a way for him to settle the score by involving the elders. Brenna couldn''t make sense of Ethan''s behavior. How could a grown man still rely on his parents like this?


    "I don''t want to marry Ethan," Brenna replied tly. She couldn''t help but wonder what Giselle and Shepard thought about this matter


    Quelle dded her gare steady and understanding There shot of reports in any only agreement. "If you don''t want this that''s perfectly fine Your father and don''t ned me like arranged marriages Why should my deagher carry the weight of famed by the previous generation


    ongway


    she wild


    Brenna felt a fiber of warmth stir in her chest Even though she felt unable to get does to her mother, she genuinely appreciated that selle teen trying to push her into anything against her will.


    After pause, Giselle continued, "Then I''ll have your father forn the Mitchell family down. If the Mitchell family


    a still insists, they can go to Ableson After all, it was Ableson who saved Fran''s father, not us


    Brenns gave a small rod and said, "Thanks, Mom Honestly, I thought you might pressure me for the family''s


    sake before"


    Giselle reached over and gently patted her hand "Of course not The Harper family doesn''t need to trade a daughter to advance our business The Mitchell family has taken a mudden interest in you Before you came back, they never breathed a word of this matter. But now, just days after your return, they are bringing it up and offering a billion dors as a wedding gift like we are desperate for money or something


    The bedroom door had been left ajar


    Standing just outside, Rosie overheard the entire conversation. Her eyebrows shot up in disbelief she couldn''t help but think that Brenna was out of her mind to turn down someone like Ethan.


    But then, a smile slowly crept onto her face. This could work out perfectly. With Brenna rejecting the she could step in and marry Ethan instead.


    At that moment, a sudden thought struck her. Would her mother approve if she talked to her about marrying


    Ethan?


    if her mother agreed, then surely Ethan wouldn''t turn her down, right?


    The idea filled her with a surge of excitement. She thought she could finally have a chance to marry Ethan


    Brenna had to be blind not to see Ethan''s worth.


    Unaware that someone was eavesdropping just outside the door, Brenna and Giselle carried on with their


    conversation


    Giselle asked Brenna, "So, what kind of person do you like? I have plenty of friends, and among their sons and nephews, there are quite a few impressive young men. Should I ask around and set you up with someone?"


    Brenna couldn''t help but shiver. She quickly shook her head and said, "No, no, Mom. I''m still young Marriage is thest thing on my mind right now, so there is no need for you to do that. Moreover, my two elder brothers


    e still single. You should focus on them now."


    are


    Giselle chuckled warmly. "Alright, I''ll listen to you," she replied.


    Then, she sighed, a hint of exasperation slipping into her voice. "I have been trying to set Ernst up with a suitable match for ages. I have tried to introduce him to wonderful women, but he won''t even agree to meet them. I honestly have no idea what''s going through that boy''s head. He is thirty years old and still not even thinking about marriage. If you get the chance, maybe try talking some sense into him?" she said.


    Brenna smiled and replied, "Sure, Mom. But have you ever thought that maybe Ernst already has someone he


    17:11


    likes?"


    Giselle pursed her lips, shaking her head with a dismissive chuckle. "Him, liking someone? He is too blunt and often ends up offending people. What woman would want someone who can''t even speak

 Chapter 117

    Chapter 117 The Moreno Family Is Nearing Copse


    Rosie couldn''t quite grasp why Brenna, who had publicly agreed to marry Ethan, was now refusing to go through with the marriage.


    She thought about it for a while and concluded that Brenna and Ethan must have had a fight


    The idea thrilled her unexpectedly. It appeared Ethan was not the ideal match for Brenna as everyone had believed; even they could have disagreements.


    Regrettably, she was unaware of the specifics of their dispute.


    Rosie quickly decided to have someone track Brenna''s movements over theing days.


    Brenna was supposedly without a job, yet she was rarely home. So what kept her so upied every day?


    Rosie was determined to find out about that.


    Meanwhile, Brenna, oblivious to Rosie''s newfound interest in her activities, was deeply involved with the troubles the Moreno family was facing. Their stocks were tumbling, with market values dropping by almost seventy percent, prompting shareholders to rapidly sell off their stakes.


    Brenna was meeting Thiago at a restaurant across from the Moreno Group headquarters, monitoring the developments closely.


    Outside thepany''s offices, a group of construction workers, including men and women, had congregated, disying a banner that read, "Pay us what we''re owed!"


    Nearby, Brenna noticed another group, more ordinary in appearance, one of them holding up a portrait high, with family members alongside holding a white banner that read, "Justice for our loved one!"


    Both groups were clearly distressed, and thepany''s security was struggling to contain them.


    Just then, a voice shouted through a loudspeaker, "Roberto Moreno,e down! Roberto Moreno, you coward!" The Moreno family had extensive real estate assets, with many construction projects and buildings in Shirie. Ast the family''s problems worsened, previously hidden issues wereing to light, including two buildings revealed to be of substandard construction with cracked walls, insufficient waterproofing, and low-quality


    materials.


    Thiago observed the unfolding chaos calmly, his expression untroubled. don''t want the


    "The Moreno family is nearing copse," Brenna said, sitting across from him. "Are you sure you Moreno family''s assets? If you act now, you could easily secure seventy percent of their shares." Thiago calmly withdrew his gaze. ¡°No, I don''t want this mess. If I take over, what''s to stop the Moreno family


    17.11


    Morean family is Hearing Cop


    from trying to reim it once I''ve sorted everything out?" he said.


    Bienna nodded, understanding his point. They certainly will The Moreno Group has attracted attention from tax andw enforcement Roberto is likely to end up in prison," he said


    Thiagoughed, showing no pity for Roberto. He said, "He''s only getting what he deserves it would be better if the whole Moreno family ended up in jail"


    Brenna refreshed the stock data for the Moreno Group on her phon, which continued to plummet as anticipated She showed her phone to Thiago, saying, "Look, it has reached its lowest limit again today"


    Thiago moved closer to Brenna, their heads nearly touching, creating a seemingly intimate scene


    Unbeknownst to them, Rosie was sitting in a corner of the restaurant, disguised with arge sun hat, secretly


    watching Brenna.


    She angled her phone and snapped a picture that made it appear as if Thiago were kissing Brenna on the cheek


    Rosie muttered to herself, "I''ll send this photo to Ethan. When he sees how close Brenna is with another man, he''ll surely break up with her."


    She immediately sent the photo to Ethan..


    Just then, several vehicles from the prosecution service pulled up, and uniformed officers swiftly entered the building of the Moreno Group.


    Thiago''s expression turned genuinely happy as he lifted his ss, saying, "I''ve been waiting for this day for a long time."


    Brenna also lifted her ss, clinking it against his, and they both sipped their drinks with smiles of satisfaction.


    Rosie captured this celebratory moment and quickly forwarded the photos to Ethan.


    On top of the financial district''s tallest skyscraper, Ethan had just returned to his office from a meeting He checked his phone, frowning in frustration. Despite his repeated attempts over two days, Brenna had not responded to his friend request. He noticed Rosie''s messages but disregarded them, assuming she was merely pestering him.


    As he was about to put his phone down, Rosie sent him another


    "Ethan, Brenna is on a date with another man."


    message.


    That prompted Ethan to view Rosie''s messages. The photos Rosie had sent him depicted Brenna joyfully drinking with a man, but the shots were taken from behind the man, showing only his back.


    Ethan''s expression darkened, and he clenched his phone, his knuckles whitening from the strain.


    Brenna was seeing someone else!


    Ethan responded, "Where are they? Send me the address, and I''ll head there immediately."


    Rosie, still observing Brenna, felt a twinge of displeasure. It seemed Ethan hadn''t entirely given up on Brenna yet, which bothered her.


    Nevertheless, she relished the thought of Ethan catching Brenna on a date with another man, hoping it would


    17:11


    < Chapter 117 The Moreno Family is hearing Copse


    extinguish any remaining feelings he had for her


    So she quickly sent Ethan the location, anticipating the drama that would unfold


    when he confronted

 Chapter 118

    Chapter 118 Leave Us


    Alone


    Anticipating Ethan''s expected arrival, Rosie removed her sun hat and captured several photos as she approached Brenna.


    Noticing something was off, Brenna saw Rosie''s unusual attire and frowned. "Why are you taking pictures of us?"


    she asked.


    Ignoring Brenna''s question, Rosie proceeded to snap shots of their dishes and quickly shared them with Ethan


    She then held up her phone with a confident grin and said, "Brenna, didn''t you just agree to marry Ethan? And yet, here you are, dining with another guy. I saw you clinking sses with him. Think Ethan would be okay knowing you''re out with someone else?"


    Brenna rolled her eyes, finding Rosie childish.


    "Seriously? Your opinions and ideas are so outdated. Is it really not appropriate for me to interact with others normally?" she said.


    Rosie stood firm, her arms crossed, and gave a broad smile. "I''m not saying you can''t. Just keep in mind that you''re engaged. What if a couple of drinks make you do something you''ll regretter? Since you''re having drinks with him, that must mean your rtionship is something special, right?" she said.


    Brenna and Thiago both gave Rosie a scornful gaze before turning their attention away and choosing to ignore


    her.


    Quietly, Brenna scoffed, "Ridiculous."


    Thinking she had hit a nerve, Rosie couldn''t help but smile even more. "So, was I right? Is he the new guy in your life? Have things gone that far between you two?" she asked.


    While Thiago secretly wished he were Brenna''s new love interest, he knew the truth. To her, he was merely a colleague, perhaps a close friend, but nothing more. His feelings for her had grown over the years, yet he had never revealed them, fearing it might ruin their friendship,


    He wasn''t going to let anyone insult Brenna like this.


    Rising with a burst of anger, he snapped, "Why should you care? What gives you the right to meddle in our affairs? This is none of your business! Leave us alone!"


    A flicker of irritation crossed Rosie''s face as a shadow darkened her expression. She eximed, "How dare you talk to me like that? Do you have any idea who I am? I have the power to kill you easily."


    Brenna also stood, her wine ss in hand, and sshed Rosie''s face with the wine. "You''ve been stalking me for days. I''ve been ignoring you, but that doesn''t mean I haven''t noticed it. Keep this up, and my response


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    won''t be so polite," she said,


    Rosie''s anger red up. "How dare you ssh me with your drink? Why would you be concerned about me following you, unless you''ve done something to betray Ethan? Tell me, have you been sleeping with this man?"


    she said.


    Whispers filled the air in the restaurant as customers exchanged nces and quietly talked among themselves.


    With a sharp motion, Brenna delivered a stinging p to Rosie''s cheek, the sound echoing through the area


    Rosie instinctively touched her cheek, stunned. How dare youy a hand on me?" she asked.


    At that moment, Ethan walked in, taking in the scene that suggested Brenna and Thiago were teaming up


    against Rosic


    He made his way over to them, his gaze falling on the half-eaten meals and the half-full bottle of wine on the


    table.


    A wave of difort swept over him as he thought of Brenna chatting and drinking with another man. It bothered him, especially since she had recently ignored his friend request on social media


    Rosie burst into tears, ying the victim. She said, "Ethan, you saw everything, right? I was merely reminding Brenna of hermitment to you. But she responded by throwing wine at me and striking me. You have to do something about this!"


    Ethan''s eyes shifted to Brenna and Thiago, noticing the dark expressions on their faces.


    He recalled that Thiago had nned to meet Brenna at the Imperial Bar before. Their connection appeared to go way back, with a clear sense of closeness between them.


    Ethan believed if he guessed correctly, Brenna had known Thiago long before she had met him


    And now, Thiago''s demeanor showed a protective stance toward Brenna.


    Ethan confronted Thiago with a sharp tone, his gaze burning with intensity as if he could kill Thiago with nothing more than a look. "What exactly is your role in my fianc¨¦e''s life? Did you even consider asking me before taking her out?" he said.


    Rosie, enjoying the drama, yed the victim to win Ethan''s sympathy, making sure the wine stains on her face and clothes were clearly visible.


    Unaware that Brenna had ended things with Ethan after epting his proposal at her wee party, Thiago responded sharply, "Mr. Mitchell, Brenna may be engaged to you, but she is not your property. She''s free to dine with anyone she chooses. It''s not your ce to question it."


    Brenna, clearly frustrated, snapped, "Mr. Mitchell, I have already broken up with you. We''re not together anymore. Furthermore, my personal life is none of your business."


    Ethan''s expression softened as he looked at Brenna "Brenna, I never epted our breakup. In my eyes, we are still together," he said.


    Upon hearing Ethan and Brenna''s breakup, Rosie couldn''t hide her joy.


    Just then, Ethan spoke with firm seriousness. "I''ve already talked to my father about officially proposing to the Harper family. In the next few days, our families wille together for a meal to celebrate our engagement

 Chapter 119

    Chapter 119 What''s Really Going On Between You T...


    Rosie''s expression soured in an instant. She turned to Ethan and said, "han, a in steady dating someone else. That alone should tell you she doesn''t care about you. So why on earth and


    marry her? I just saw them drinking together and getting all cozy. They made it through balls of we already. Just think about it-if they keep going, they will get drunk in no time Whom we coil rag


    next?"


    She studied Ethan closely, trying to gauge his reaction, unwilling to believe he would tolerate what she we about to say next. She continued, "You really need to open your eyes Erenna known sleckel dends one''s judgment, and yet she is still drinking with another man. She must have already set this whole thing up. They could be nning to go to a hotel soon. Why would you ever want to get engaged to someone The Brenna?" Brenna met Rosie''s gaze without flinching, a calm expression on her face Serrerly, she couldn''t help but admire Rosie''s quick imagination. In the blink of an eye, she had spun a tale about her and Thing mong in bed together.


    She noticed that Ethan appeared indifferent, his face unreadable, leaving her unsure whether he believed


    Rosie''s usations.


    "You really have a talent for imagining things. Maybe you should try writing novels," Brenna said to Rosie Her irritation was through the roof. Rosie''s tactic was disgusting, and it grated on her nerves. If they had been alo she would have taught Rosie a lesson by now.


    Rosie shot Brenna a fierce re, hand pressed against her cheek. The p still burned painfully, a lingering reminder that Brenna hadn''t held back


    If Ethan hadn''t walked in, Rosie would have struck back already. She gave Brenna a look that could kill and silently vowed to have someone beat her up for the p.


    Ethan radiated a chilling aura,pletely ignoring Rosie''s words. Yet, beneath his detached exterior, a deep concern gnawed at him regarding Brenna and Thiago''s rtionship.


    Ethan said, "Brenna, I''m not here to dictate who you have dinner with, but don''t just break up with something so trivial. His eyes met Brenna''s, but she seemed distant, almost as if she couldn''t care less about


    him


    He then reached out, trying to pull her away. "Let''s go. Come back with me," he said.


    Brenna shook him off with a firm gesture. "I already told you we are done. Stop bothering me," she said.


    Seeing this, Thiago stepped forward, positioning himself between Brenna and Ethan to protect Brenna "Mr. Mitchell, please stop bothering Brenna," he said coldly.


    Practically glowing with excitement, Rosie seized the opportunity to fuel the fire. "Ethan, did you see that? This


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    Chapter 119 What''s Really Going On Between You Two


    man is so protective of Brenna. Their rtionship must be special!" she said


    She raised an eyebrow and arrogantly asked Brenna, "Tell us the truth. What''s really going on between you two? Ethan clearly doesn''t agree with the breakup, yet you are already involved with another man Don''t you feel ashamed of yourself?"


    Ethan''s curiosity about the rtionship between Brenna and Thiago was undeniable, but he wouldn''t voice it aloud. Instead, he decided he would have someone look into it


    He stood there, his cold gaze locked onto Thiago as he waited for Brenna''s response. "Step aside. I''m speaking to my fianc¨¦e. This has nothing to do with you."


    Rosie knew Ethan better than anyone since they had grown up together. She knew he never openly stated what he wanted or asked direct questions. For him to say something like that was already a sign that he had reached


    his limit.


    She turned to Brenna, pressing harder, asking, "Didn''t you hear him? What''s really going on between you two? Have you done something to hurt Ethan?" Rosie''s arrogance was so overwhelming, and Brenna couldn''t take it anymore. ¡°Shut up!¡± Brenna snapped coldly, raising her hand and delivering a hard p to Rosie''s face. This time, the strike was even fiercer, sending Rosie reeling, with blood beginning to trickle from the corner of her mouth


    "You hit me again? Are you feeling uneasy? Is that why you hit me again?" Rosie shrieked, pointing a shaking finger at Brenna. "Have you two already slept together? Tell us the truth!"


    Thiago stepped forward, fury burning in his eyes as he looked at Rosie. "Watch your mouth. Brenna and I are just colleagues, nothing more. We were simply discussing business over dinner. It''s not what you are implying."


    he said.


    His temper red as he pieced together who Rosie really was. She was probably after Ethan, which exined why she was going to such lengths to cause trouble for Brenna


    Rosie let out a mocking snort. "Just colleagues? That''s absurd. Brenna doesn''t even have a real job. She wouldn''t have any colleagues!"


    She narrowed her eyes at Brenna and demanded, "Tell me, whichpany do you work for? What''s your position, and how long have you been working there?"


    Brenna pressed her lips into a tight line, refusing to expose her multiple identities to someone like Rosie.


    She then shifted her cold gaze to Ethan. "If you have nothing else to say, please leave. Stop interrupting our meal," she said.


    Just then, another car pulled up in front of the restaurant Han stepped out, still reeling from the shock of watching his father being taken away by prosecutors and shoved into a police car. He didn''t dare set foot in the insteadpany building, so he went into the restaurant


    The moment his eyesnded on Thiago, fury took over. He stormed across the room and grabbed Thiago by the cor. "Was it you? Are you the one who destroyed my family?" he eximed in a

 Chapter 120

    Chapter 120 Her Boyfriend


    Han''s eyes burned red with rage as he grabbed Thiago''s shirt. He shook him hard, pouring every ounce of fury and pain into the motion.


    He didn''t care that his fingers had just been operated on. He didn''t care if the wounds tore open again. Right now, he was ready to go down swinging if it meant taking Thiago with him


    "Do you hate the Moreno family that much after everything we did for you? This family raised you, and this is how you repay us? You ungrateful bastard! I''ll beat you to death for what you did to Dad!" he bellowed, his Voiceing out raw and broken.


    With that, Han yanked one hand free and raised it to strike Thiago.


    However, Thiago had expected his move. Before Han couldnd a blow, Thiago''s fist connected with his face.


    Han stumbled back, thrown off bnce by the punch. He caught himself against the edge of the table, but the impact sent a sharp jolt through his injured hand. The pain hit him hard, draining the color from his face. He believed his reattached fingers might have torn open again. And this time, the condition might not be


    fixable.


    He looked at his hand, and his face contorted with pain. Then, he looked up at Thiago, fury zing in his eyes. "Will you only be satisfied when you''ve destroyed our entire family?" he asked.


    He jabbed a finger toward the door. "Did you see that? They''ve taken Dad away. The Moreno family is finished! Do you even understand what you''ve done? What the hell do you think this will get you?"


    Thiago straightened his clothes with calm, deliberate movements. Then, he stepped forward and fired back, "You want to know what this will get me? You really want to know? It''s justice for my mother. When you killed her, you sealed your fate. Don''t act surprised now. You brought this on yourselves. You all deserve it."


    "That''s nonsense!" Han growled, struggling to stay upright as his fury boiled over. "Your mother was killed by my mother. If you''re out for revenge, then take it out on her! Why tear down the entire Moreno family? Dad raised you, you ungrateful bastard! You really think you are doing the right thing now?"


    He couldn''t wrap his head around it. Thiago had been cast out with nothing-no wealth, no power. Yet somehow, he had managed to bring the entire Moreno family down


    Han''s eyesnded on Brenna, and the pieces clicked into ce. He jabbed a finger at her and spat, "It''s her, isn''t it? She helped you ruin us. She''s the Harper family''s daughter. I see it now. You two were together from the start. That night at the Imperial Bar-she helped you, and you protected her. You''ve been working together this whole time!"


    "I never thought you''d stoop so low. Pathetic! If you had any real backbone, you''d have taken down the Moreno family on your own. Relying on a woman? What kind of man does that make you?" Han seethed.


    He was throwing every insult he had, desperate to drag Thiago down with him. If he couldn''t live in luxury anymore, then ''Thiago shouldn''t have it easy, either.


    12.11


    Chapter 1201er Bochend


    He let out a sharp, mockingugh ¡°Miss Harper, you sure know how to y your cards juggling two men like that epting Mr. Mitchell''s proposal while sneaking around with Thiago. You''re shameless!"


    hist as Han finished talking, Ethan stepped forward and struck tim hard across the face. "Watch your mouth," he said coldly. He wouldn''t allow anyone to insult Brenna like that.


    The pnded with a crock, far harder than Thiago''s had, and even knocked Han''s teeth out.


    Brenna felt touched. She had expected Ethan to doubt her after Han''s usations. But instead, he up for her without a second thought


    had stoo


    stood


    Rosie, on the other hand, lookedpletely thrown off by what she was seeing. She turned to Ethan and said, "Ethan, I think he has a point. Brenna has a boyfriend, and yet she epted your proposal. Isn''t she cheating on his boyfriend?"


    Ethan''s gaze turned sharp and cold. He looked straight at Rosie and replied through gritted teeth, "Say one more word against Brenna, and you''ll regret it."


    Rosie flinched under his stare. She quickly fell silent.


    She bit her lip, unwilling to ept what was happening. Ethan was supposed to side against Brenna. But in reality, he had chosen to trust her.


    Rosie''s thoughts spun wildly. She had to find a way to make Ethan believe Brenna wasn''t who she seemed


    he really your boyfriend?" Rosie asked Brenna, pretending to be shocked. She looked at Brenna, wide-eyed "If you were already seeing someone, why ept Ethan''s proposal? What were you nning? Did you think Ethan was some kind of fool?"


    Brenna shot her a cold re. "My personal life is none of your business," she said.


    Rosie was pleased by her response. Brenna wasn''t denying it. She wasn''t exining anything, either. That had to mean there was something going on between her and the man.


    Was Brenna hoping Ethan would misunderstand?


    This was even better.


    "How is it none of my business?" Rosie shot back. "The Harper family has always stood for integrity and proper. conduct. No one in our family has ever done anything so shameless. You''ve brought disgrace to us, Brenna. So yes, what you do concerns me. You owe everyone here an exnation. What exactly is your rtionship with


    this man?"


    Thiago stood off to the side, quietly watching Brenna. He knew her well enough to understand she wasn''t the type to fall for someone easily. She was guarded and reserved.


    And Ethan... He wasn''t careless with his feelings, either. If he had confessed his feelings for Brenna in public, it


    meant he was serious.


    Still, Brenna didn''t say a word. She didn''t confirm or deny anything, so Thiago kept quiet, too.


    Rosie tugged on Ethan''s arm and said, "Ethan, did you even deny it!"


    ou see that? I said the man is her boyfriend, and she didn''t


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    Chapter 121 Register Our Marriage


    Ethan''s gaze hardened as it locked onto Brenna. "Is he your boyfriend?" The question hung between them, sharp as a de.


    Brenna''s lips sealed into a taut line, her eyes meeting Ethan''s with deliberate neutrality-a practiced mask revealing nothing.


    Standing nearby, Rosie watched anxiously and felt her chest tighten. She wanted to intervene but couldn''t, powerless to change what was unfolding


    Ethan suddenly stepped forward, his movements abrupt and forceful. He grabbed Brenna''s wrist firmly, his tone dropping to something almost possessive. "Whatever you had with him doesn''t matter anymore," he said, his voice low but firm. "You''re mine now-my fianc¨¦e-and soon, my wife."


    Without giving Brenna a chance to respond, he began pulling her toward the exit.


    Thiago moved swiftly, wanting to stop them. His voice was steady but edged with warning. "Mr. Mitchell," het said firmly. "You can''t just take her away like this."


    But before Thiago could get closer, Neville appeared before him, hisrge frame blocking the way. The tension in the room thickened as Thiago''s sharp gaze assessed Neville''s stance. With practiced precision, Thiago attempted to push past Neville, but Neville didn''t flinch, standing as solid as a wall.


    Thiago''s expression hardened as he locked eyes with Neville. His voice dropped to an icy tone as he spoke again. "Step aside."


    Neville''s voice dripped with a sharp edge, his words slicing through the air like a de. "I advise against meddling," he warned, his gaze piercing, "Mr. Mitchell may be blinded by his emotions, but I see the truth. Miss Harper never imed you as her boyfriend-you''re merely acquaintances. She is just currently mad at Mr. Mitchell, nothing more. Mr. Mitchell will calm her soon enough. Interfere, and you''ll face consequences you''ll


    regret."


    Thiago was concerned for Brenna''s safety. But Neville was clearly formidable, and Thiago understood that engaging in a fight with him wouldn''t end in his favor.


    Thiago''s voice, low and controlled, carried an undeniable edge of defiance as he said, ¡°I will not stand by while someone with ill intentions takes Brenna away."


    The two of them started fighting, refusing to yield. Thiago''s trained strikes met Neville''s brute strength, their movements a blur of tension. But neither of them was able to gain the upper hand in the fight


    Frustration boiling over, Rosie stormed away, her heels clicking against the floor,


    Meanwhile, Han, nursing his wounded hand nearby, had watched the situation unfold with growing rity.


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    The friction between Brenna and Rosie was bing undeniable. Rosie''s efforts to wedge herself between Ethan and Brenna, hoping to create a rift, were evident.


    Han smirked, his mind already working, and followed Rosie out of the restaurant, sensing an opportunity


    "Miss Harper!" Han''s voice cut through the air, carrying an unexpected urgency


    Rosie halted, her gaze flickering to Han''s bandaged hand. "Is your hand alright?" she asked.


    Han''s expression was pale, the pain still evident in his hand, but his thoughts were consumed with the


    escting situation with the Moreno family.


    "It''s fine, Miss Harper," he said, his voice strained butposed. "I want to talk to you about something


    Having witnessed Roberto''s arrest, Rosie knew the Moreno family''s downfall was imminent.


    She said, "We have nothing to discuss."


    Han''s tone was calm but calcting as he reminded Rosie, "We share amon enemy,


    us allies."


    Rosie


    sie. That makes


    Rosie''s expression softened as she considered his words, the impatience on her face ebbing away slightly. After a pause, she gave a faint smile. "Fine. Let''s talk."


    Brenna struggled against Ethan as he forced her into the car. Her hands wed at the door handle in frustration, but it wouldn''t budge-it was already locked. When Ethan slid into the driver''s seat with an air ofposure, Brenna red at him, her voice sharp with anger. "Let me out! I don''t like being forced into anything," she said.


    Ethan, however, remained stoic, his gaze unyielding "I''m not someone who seeks emotional connections," he began, his voice measured but firm. "Romantic rtionships have never been my strong suit. But somehow, I''ve developed feelings for you-something I''ve never done before. It''s draining, and I don''t want to waste that much energy on a rtionship again. I''ve already decided-you''re the one for me. I won''t want anyone else." Brenna''sughter caught in her throat. She wanted to mock his words, but the sincerity in Ethan''s voice stopped her. Though his intentions didn''t feel bad, the weight of his control suffocated her.


    "But I haven''t made that decision about you," she replied coldly, her tone t.


    Ethan started the car without another word, pulling away from the scene as Brenna fumed silently beside him.


    Breaking the silence as he drove, Ethan spoke, his voice softer this time. "About Jayceon... I''m sorry for how things unfolded. If you didn''t like the way I handled it, I won''t do something like that again. After all, I know I should put my wife first. 1 will maintain boundaries with my friends."


    Ethan''s eyes stayed fixed on the road, but his words dripped with unspoken vulnerability. ¡°You should understand Jayceon and I are very different. I never mess around with women. Even with the family arrangements, I''ve not spoken much with Rosie or Audrey before. There are also no other women in my life. Brenna''s anger red. His actions were too domineering; he had not even bothered to ask her opinion. "And why should I care about your personal affairs?" she shot back, her voice sharp. "What does that even have


    to do with me?"


    Ethan nced at Brenna, his voice steady but tinged with an emotion he rarely expressed. "It matters because


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    Chapter 121 Register Our Marriage


    you''re the only woman 1 want beside me-now and forever," he said.


    He had never mastered sentimental speeches or the art offorting people. Yet


    he clung to the belief that rity would bridge the chasm between them-that if heid bare his feelings, she might soften and forgive him.


    But Brenna''s icy detachment remained unbroken, her gaze fixed on some distant point beyond the windshield.


    Undeterred, Ethan tightened his grip on the steering wheel. "I want you. And I don''t surrender what''s mine,"


    he said.


    Brenna''s gaze stayed cold, her lips pressed into a thin line.


    Silence thickened in the confined space, charged with all the words Ethan couldn''t articte. He had emptied his arsenal of derations. He didn''t know what else to say now


    The hum of the engine filled the silence in the car as buildings blurred past.


    When the car finally stopped, Brenna''s breath caught. She noticed that they had arrived at the City Hail. A disbelievingugh escaped her.


    "Why are we here?" she asked.


    Ethan met Brenna''s gaze, his expression unwavering and serious. "We''re here to register our marriage," he replied, his voice earnest. "Once we register our marriage, it''ll be official You''ll be my wife. I want you to know my sincerity by doing this."


    The Phantom Heiress Ring From The Shadows

 Chapter 122

    Chapter 122 I''ll Give You


    A Chance


    Brenna stared at Ethan, utterly speechless. He stood there seriously, seemingly oblivious to how abrupt his actions were. He clearly saw no issue in his behavior and believed he was just being kind in his own way.


    Ethan had already stepped out of the car and circled around to open the door for her. "Come on out," he said.


    Brenna remained seated, leveling him with a steady gaze. "Did it ever ur to you to ask for my opinion?" she


    asked.


    Leaning against the car, Ethan rested one hand on the roof and bent down, his expression utterly sincere as he replied, "I think you should want to marry me. I am devoted and serious about a rtionship. Plus, I know how to make money- more than enough to give it all to you. My heart belongs to youpletely and unconditionally. That should be enough to satisfy you, right?"


    "You are certainly full of yourself," Brenna shot back bluntly. "Does this mean you will listen to me from now


    on?"


    "Of course," Ethan said after a moment''s thought, nodding sincerely. "I''m ready and willing to listen to you."


    Relief flickered across Brenna''s face. At least he wasn''t the controlling type and wouldn''t force her to do


    anything.


    "In that case, take me back to my studio. I have things to take care of there," Brenna said.


    Ethan''s gaze flicked toward the City Hall, lingering for a beat before he turned back to her. "If you don''t want to get married to me today, that''s fine. I meant every word I said, and I''ll stand by them. I respect your decision and won''t force you," he said.


    He closed the car door with a soft click, then returned to the driver''s seat. As he settled in, he reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out a small box. Without another word, he took Brenna''s hand and slid the engagement ring onto her finger.


    He said, "I''ll listen to you. However, you have to promise me one thing-never take this ring off again. Otherwise, people might misunderstand."


    Brenna fixed Ethan with a steady gaze before saying bluntly, "I don''t like Jayceon. You shouldn''t associate with him anymore. Otherwise, I won''t wear this ring."


    Without hesitation, she slipped the ring off her finger, clearly intending to hand it back to him.


    Ethan held her hand and carefully slid the ring back onto her finger. "Alright, I''ll listen to you. I won''t associate with Jayceon anymore. But can you at least tell me why?"


    Brenna took a moment to calm herself and think things over. Ethan and Jayceon appeared quite different, but


    < Chapter 122 11 Gave You A Chance


    perhaps it was wiser to observe for a while.


    She took a breath and then calmly exined, "When Jayceon was dating Ellie, he epted an engagement arranged by his family. His fianc¨¦e confronted Ellie and humiliated her publicly, calling her the other woman. Yet, Jayceon denied being engaged. Ellie even met the woman herself, and he still refused to admit it. Eventually, Ellie couldn''t take it anymore and broke things off with him


    Ethan had known Jayceon since their school days. If there was one thing Ethan believed, it was that he knew his


    character.


    He said, "I know Jayceon well. He isn''t that type of guy. There must be some misunderstanding. Let me ask him


    about the matter."


    Brenna''s expression darkened. "You are still defending him?*


    Ithan said in a serious tone, "I''m not blindly defending him. I just happen to know what he is really like. Jayceon isn''t someone who would let his family control him. He has been through a lot over the years, and to


    my knowledge, he has never been engaged or mat He has had a few girlfriends, but that''s it. Brenna,


    please give me a chance to look into this. I promise I''ll make sure he gives Miss Moore a proper exnation and sets things straight."


    Brenna thought about it for a moment before nodding. "Alright, I''ll give you a chance. But let me be clear-if Jayceon turns out to be the type of person I suspect, and you still choose to be friends with him, then we are finished for good."


    "Okay," Ethan agreed with a smile. He felt grateful Brenna was still willing to be his fianc¨¦e.


    What genuinely surprised Brenna was that Ethan hadn''t mentioned Thiago or questioned her rtionship with. him. In this regard, she felt gratitude toward him. He was clearly a man of his word, willing to trust her implicitly and respect her privacy.


    "I''ll drive you back now. Where is your studio located?" Ethan asked, his voice warm, a gentle smile curving on


    his lips.


    Brenna replied, "It''s in the financial district, the same building where you picked me upst time."


    In Rosie''s office.


    The Harper family owned several venture capital firms, and with Rosie''s background in finance and management, she had been entrusted with overseeing one of them.


    Han looked worse than the day before. He was utterly drained, the weariness etched into his face. Moreover, he was still in the clothes he had been wearing the previous day, which were now wrinkled and disheveled. He no longer looked like the charming, carefree yboy he used to be


    He slumped miserably onto the sofa in Rosie''s office as her beautiful secretary quietly ced a warm cup of


    coffee in front of him.


    Rosie''s gaze lingered on his bandaged hand for a long time, her voice dripping with disdain as she said, "You imed yesterday that your fingers were cut off, and now, they''ve been magically reattached?"


    "The doctor treated my hand. It''s nothing serious." Han was too exhausted to think about these things. The Moreno Group, along with its assets, had been seized by the prosecutor''s office. Both thepany''s and his parents'' bank ounts were frozen.


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    Chapter 122 17 Cove You & Chatre


    He couldn''t even afford his hospital bills, let alone surgery


    He and his mother were now staying at his uncle''s house, enduring their disdain.


    "Miss Harper, I''m really desperate. I need your help,¡± Han said


    Rosie examined her freshly manicured nails and considered using Han to deal with Brenna.

 Chapter 123

    Chapter 123 Their n


    Rosie kept a cold, distant attitude, looking down on Han as she sat gracefully in the executive chair. She kept her gaze fixed on Han, who looked messy and sprawled out on the sofa.


    "What will I gain by helping you?" she asked.


    On the brink of desperation, Han nearly wanted to kneel to beg for her help. With the Moreno family unable to produce a single penny and his ounts frozen, he now relied on his uncle''s generosity just to get by.


    He said, "Miss Harper, I can''t offer you anything. My family''s assets are tied up due to the ongoing investigation. That''s why I''m begging you now. If the Moreno family''s luck turns around, your kindness will never be


    forgotten."


    Raising an eyebrow in doubt, Rosie responded, "Helping you carries too much risk. Your family is involved with quite a few people. Who would want to get their hands dirty by helping you now? There''s talk of a real estate deal gone wrong leading to fatalities and now legal troubles. Why would I involve myself in this mess?"


    Aware of the scandals, Han came ready to negotiate, seizing the opportunity as Rosie seemed willing to h


    him out. "Miss Harper, you have feelings for Mr. Mitchell, don''t you?" he asked. Rosie gave him a sharp nce and asked, "And how is that your concern?"


    His assumption confirmed by her reaction, Han said, "However, it appears that Mr. Mitchell has taken a liking to your cousin."


    Rosie, impatient with the indirect approach, demanded, "Get to the point!"


    Han revealed what he knew. "The man seen with Brenna is Thiago my half- brother. You might know our mothers were sisters, and his mother died tragically due to my mother''s actions. Thiago despises me and the entire Moreno family because of that. He is the one responsible for the downfall of the Moreno family," he said. Rosie looked at him with unmistakable disdain. "The scandal involving your family is disgusting," she said. Han nodded in agreement, his voice tinged with sadness. "Yes, it''s a messy situation. But, Miss Harper, let''s focus on the real issue. Did you notice the rtionship between Thiago and Brenna yesterday? It''s much more than just friendship. We could use them to our advantage and get rid of them. If we seeded, not only would we save the Moreno family, but there would also be a chance for you to be with Mr. Mitchell. It sounds like win-win for both of us, don''t you think?"


    The idea of Brenna out of the picture appealed to Rosie, though she was clueless about how to achieve it.


    "Have youe up with a n?" she asked.


    Shaking his head, Han admitted, "I don''t have a solid n now. But you''re well-connected. You know people with criminal connections, right? Maybe you could find people willing to do something to them.¡±


    The idea intrigued Rosie. People in the underworld could certainly pull off such actions, especially if given the


    Chapter 121 The Han


    right motivation


    She wondered why she hadn''t considered this sooner


    She nodded slightly, she knew a few people in the underworld


    Han then outlined his scheme.


    After that, he asked with a cunning grin, "What do you think of my n?


    "It''s pretty good." Rosie smirked dismissively, remembering how Thiago had shed with Neville the day before "Your brother seems more than capable of fighting Tell them to send more people I believe we would be able to get rid of Brenna and Thiago for good"


    A smile finally broke on Han''s face. "I will Tomorrow, I''ll find a way to get Thiago and Brenna out together


    Rosie expressed her doubts, saying, "Can you actually gain Thiago''s trust?


    Han''s tone was icy as he replied, "He''lle for his mother''s belongings left at our ce. He won''t be able


    to resist."


    Rosie considered his words. "It could work, but he won''t take the bait unless he sees those items first." She wasn''t foolish enough to underestimate Thiago''s cleverness


    "That''s not an issue I''ll pick up the items tonight, take a picture, and send it to him. Once he sees it, he''ll definitely show up," Han said


    A sinister gleam appeared in his eyes as he imagined the scene. "I n to end Thiago myself and make him suffer intensely I want him to meet an end as agonizing as his mother''s. That''s the consequence of going against mel


    He nced at his bandaged right hand "First, I''ll sever his limbs, forcing him to beg for mercy."


    He turned to Rosie, eager to know her strategy "Miss Harper, what do you want to do to Brenna? I''ll make sure


    to do as you say


    Rosie''s expression turned cold, her voice steady. "I n to handle her myself I''ll let her be assaulted by many men and leave scars that''llst a lifetime. Let''s see if Ethan still loves her after that!"


    Spotting a rare opportunity to settle old scores, she devised a cunning n. She would let Brenna be assaulted by men and then went to "rescue" her, making Brenna grateful to her.


    The thought of that filled Rosie with deep satisfaction

 Chapter 124

    Chapter 124 Attack


    In a private lounge of an upscale bar, an opulent disy of premium liquor adorned the table, each bottle carrying a price tag over fifty thousand. Tucked beneath one of the red wine bottles, the edge of a gift card


    peeked out, showing a value of at least a hundred thousand dors.


    Lounging contentedly, the rotund tax bureau director, draped in thepany of many beautiful women, beamed with satisfaction at thevish setup Rosie and Han had arranged for him.


    Not far off, a small leather briefcase rested casually on the floor. Inside, it brimmed with stacks of cash


    estimated to be at least a million dors.


    The director''s beady eyes narrowed into slits as he fixated on the enticing figures of the women, his hands wandering without restraint.


    As he sipped the wine handed to him by one of the women, he reassured Han, "You are too kind. This


    matter won''t be difficult to handle..."


    Han felt a surge of relief. He had finally secured the director''s cooperation. Now, his next challenge was figuring out how to win over the people at the prosecutor''s office.


    On Friday, Brenna workedte into the night. Her studio had recently taken on a project to design a helicopter for civilian use, and every employee was putting in overtime. That day, they were down to the final control system, which Brenna was responsible for. She and Thiago worked until eleven at night, eventuallypleting


    most of it


    The other employees had gradually left, leaving the spacious studio quiet, with just the two of them left behind.


    Thiago studied the blueprints on the screen withser focus, carefully reviewing eachponent diagram submitted by the team. The designs had gone through multiple rounds of revisions and were now nearly


    wless.


    A satisfied smile crept across his face as he nced at his watch. "It''s past eleven. Let''s grab ate-night snack. I''ll drive you home afterward."


    Brenna nodded. She had alreadypleted her work on the control system. It was ready to be delivered to the client on Monday.


    "Let''s go," she said, swiftly packing herptop into her backpack before heading out of the studio with Thiago. They stepped into the elevator and headed down to the underground parking lot. After they arrived, the elevator doors opened. Suddenly, the lights inside the elevator and throughout the parking area went out, plunging them intoplete darkness


    Brenna stood still, listening intently. The silence around them was so profound that a pin drop could be heard.


    "Why did the power suddenly go out? Brenna asked.


    17.12


    Thiago instantly realized something wasn''t right The building''s security system was first-rate and extremely reliable. They had run two studios here for about five years and had never experienced a single power outage


    Without thinking, he moved in front of Rrenna, shielding her with his body something''s not right. Stay alert."


    he said


    Brenna also sensed danger She quickly tightened her grip on her backpack and took out her phone, preparing


    to switch on the shlight.


    But Thiago anticipated her move and whispered urgently, "Don''t turn on the shlight


    Brenna quickly turned off her phone screen, realizing that if the power outage wasn''t an ident, using the shlight would give away their location


    Being exposed while the enemy remained hidden was very dangerous.


    Then, there was the sound of footsteps growing louder, steadily closing the distance. As Brenna''s and Thiago''s eyes adjusted to the darkness, they realized the steps were now only five paces away.


    They stepped out of the elevator, pressing their backs against it to avoid being surrounded


    Suddenly, the lights flickered back on, illuminating a crowd of about thirty people in the previously empty parking lot. Their hair was dyed in every shade imaginable, and ck masks covered most of their faces, making it impossible to distinguish their features. They moved toward Brenna and Thiago slowly.


    "This chick looks like she has some fire in her," a man with bleached blond hair said, his eyes boldly fixed on Brenna, his gaze filled with lust.


    "At the front of the group stood a man who seemed to be the leader. He smacked a steel pipe against his open palm in a steady, menacing rhythm, never taking his sharp eyes off Brenna and Thiago..


    Next to him, a small man reached into his jacket pocket, pulling out a pack of cigarettes. He offered one to the leader, lighting it with respect. He said, "Mr. O''Caghan, this chick looks good. You can enjoy her first."


    Jay O''Caghan, the leader, let out a low chuckle, clearly pleased with himself. "You can all have your turn with the Harper family''s daughterter," he said.


    To his right, a man with blue hair ran his tongue over his lips, his expression lewd and repulsive. "We have never had the pleasure of sleeping with a woman from a wealthy family before. Wonder what that''s like?" he


    said.


    He then pulled out his phone, a sly grin spreading across his face. "Let''s take plenty of pictures. We can use them to extort the Harper family when we are out of cash. We will never have to worry about money again," he


    said.


    Brenna and Thiago listened as the men openly discussed their ns, tantly ignoring them, and quickly realized that someone had paid them to do this.


    "Who sent you?" Brenna demanded, several names shing through her mind.


    Jay took a long drag from his cigarette, blowing azy smoke ring in Brenna''s direction before letting out a slow, mockingugh. "Why the hurry, sweetheart? Your name is Brenna, right? If you please me, maybe I''ll tell you."

 Chapter 125

    Chapter 125 Kill Them


    When Jay tilted his head, Brenna caught sight of a snake tattoo adorning his cor, a symbol she recognized all for well. It belonged to a notorious gang from Norview, infamous for their merciless tactics. Their targets rarely escaped alive


    the figured that someone with a serious grudge against her must have hired this group of people to kill her.


    Driven by this realization, Brenna got ready for a fight. She stretched her neck and cracked her knuckles, itching for a fight she had been waiting for far too long


    She carefully set her backpack down, mindful of theptop inside.


    The gang reacted instantly, theirughter echoing wildly. They looked thoroughly amused


    They used intimidation as their tactic, hoping to unsettle and provoke their target. This was a psychological warfare.


    The blue-haired man taunted Brenna, "Look at her; she looks like she is really ready to fight us. Ridiculous!"


    The blond man strutted forward with a smug grin. ¡°A fight, huh? Oh, Miss Harper, are you sure you can handle this kind of fight? Don''t worry, we''ll strip you down and have a good ''fight'' soon..."


    "Exactly, let''s teach this chick a lesson..." chimed in another.


    Brenna and Thiago looked at the thugs with clear disdain. "Watch your mouth," Brenna said coldly. "Tell us who''s behind this, and you might just get to walk away alive today."


    Jay hadn''t anticipated Brenna''s boldness. He expected tears, not defiance, from someone like ba


    Her courage was unexpected and intriguing, but he couldn''t help but feel it a pity that breaking her spirit was bound to happen.


    "Ah, you are very bold. I do admire that about you," Jay sneered, blowing a smoke ring at Brenna in a deliberately disrespectful manner.


    Thiago waved the smoke away with a flick of his hand, his voice cutting and firm. "You better start showing some respect, or you''ll wish you had kept your mouths shut."


    Theughter stopped abruptly as the blue-haired and blond men transformed into a menacing presence.


    The blue haired man swung a steel pipe and taunted Thiago, "Let''s see if you can back up that tough act! Beg now, and maybe I''ll go easy on youter. What do you say?"


    He waved his hand dismissively as he sneered, "Why don''t you crawl between my legs? Then I will make finishing you off easier."


    Thiago''s gaze was icy. He was looking at them as if they were already dead. "You''re asking for death right now,"


    he said.


    17.12


    Chapter 125 Kill Them


    Disgusted by their behavior, Brenna turned to Thiago and said, "Don''t waste your time talking with these people


    Jay flicked his cigarette away, stamping it out, and lunged at Thigo with the pipe


    He didn''t believe Brenna could fight, nning to deal with Thiago first before handling her


    Brenna''s irritation grew as she saw they were fixated solely on Thiago


    With a swift movement, she grabbed Jay''s arm and twisted it sharply. A snap and


    a scream followed as his attack froze mid-swing, the pipe falling to the ground before it could strike Thiago''s head


    Brenna then delivered a sharp kick to Jay''s knee, causing a sickening crack as his leg twisted painfully ce.


    V out of


    In agony and shock, Jay shouted, "Ah! Kill her!" He couldn''t understand how this seemingly fragile woman could be so strong. Her cruelty surpassed even that of their feared boss, Viper.


    The group of men was stunned, recognizing Brenna''s unexpected fighting skills.


    Seeing their leader''s dire situation filled them with both fear and rage.


    The blue-haired man yelled, "Kill them!"


    Brenna swiftly grabbed the fallen pipe, swinging it with lethal speed.


    Thiago, though not as quick as Brenna, also fought with lethal precision, dodging their attacks.


    Within minutes, the thugs were all on the ground, their limbs twisted in pain.


    Brenna approached the whimpering Jay, ruthlessly kicking his injured arm.


    "Ah-" Jay''s scream echoed off the walls.


    Brenna chuckled, tapping his cheek with the pipe. "Did you enjoy the fight? Was it up to your expectations?" she asked coldly.

 is Wife, Now His Rival 126

    Chapter 126 Teach Her A


    Lesson


    Thiago stood next to Brenna, adjusting his attire before gently stopping her. "You don''t have to do this. I''ll take care of this," he said.


    Both of them shared the same goal-to discover who wanted them dead. They had easily overpowered these assants, who were clearlypetent and ruthless.


    Had it not been for their frequent brushes with danger in Norview, which had sharpened their skills, the oue of today''s fight might have been disastrously different.


    Brenna nodded, sharing a knowing look with Thiago as they quickly understood each other''s thoughts.


    It was unclear whom these attackers were specifically targeting, as both Brenna and Thiago had made several powerful enemies.


    They looked calmly at Jay, who was screaming in agony now.


    With no hesitation, Thiago drove a steel pipe into Jay''s fractured leg and then pulled it out.


    "Ah-" A horrific scream echoed from Jay.


    Brenna slightly furrowed her brow. "Stop screaming," she said impatiently.


    Once Thiago was satisfied that Jay had been roughed up enough, he crouched beside him and used the steel pipe to tug at his cor, exposing a tattoo that marked loyalty to the infamous Viper-a high-ranking criminal on Interpol''s most- wanted list. From the looks of it, Jay was nothing more than a low-level henchman. If Viper truly knew who they were dealing with, he wouldn''t have wasted time sending a pack of fools like this.


    Thiago said to Jay, "Who hired you? Tell me the truth, and I will make this easier for you."


    His voice was gentle, as if he were having a casual conversation, but to Jay, it sounded like a voice from hell.


    To Jay, Brenna and Thiago looked like ruthless monsters-outwardly ordinary, but beneath that facade, they were shockingly brutal..


    Thiago gently moved the pipe toward Jay''s injured arm.


    As Jay watched the pipe inch closer, panic filled his eyes.


    "I''ll talk!" he blurted out, terrified of another strike that couldpletely ruin his


    arm


    Thiago''s deep voice echoed as the steel pipe came to a stop. "Go ahead," he said.


    Shaking, Jay said, "Rosie Harper and Han Moreno hired me! They paid us thirty thousand and ordered us to kill you!"


    Chapter 126 Teach Her A Lesson


    Relief passed between Brenna and Thiago with that revtion. If their main adversaries weren''t involved, the


    situation was controble


    Fortunately, it wasn''t Viper himself who had wanted to kill then if it had been, they would have been facing a


    real threat


    Instead of continuing to torment the group of men, Brenna and Thiago turned their attention to the


    surveince cameras.


    The cameras had been switched off by the men, meaning there would be no evidence of what had just


    happened


    Brenna grabbed her backpack, and she and Thiago both drove off.


    When she arrived home, Brenna moved silently up the stairs. Reaching the third floor, she noticed Rosie''s door slightly open, light spilling out. Rosie was inside the room, back turned to the door, engaged in a phone call.


    Brenna paused at the doorway, overhearing Rosie''s conversation.


    In a hushed tone, Rosic said, Jay, why did I just see Brennae back unharmed? What went wrong? De you promise she''d bepletely humiliated?"


    Since the phone wasn''t on speaker, Brenna couldn''t catch the response from Jay. After a while, Rosie''s voice sounded annoyed, saying "How could you fail at such a simple job? There were only two of them. How could they be too much for you to handle?"


    From the other end of the line, there was the sound of sirens, likely an ambnce arriving


    Jay responded angrily, "Who''s at fault here? How was I to know they''d fight back so fiercely? Miss Harper, the payment you made won''t even cover our medical expenses! All our guys are seriously hurt; none came out unscathed. This isn''t finished. I must teach that bitch a lesson, or my reputation would be ruined!"


    Rosie ended the call in exasperation. She couldn''t fathom how those people had failed to subdue just Brenna


    and Thiago.


    She had just watched Brenna get out of her car, walking cheerfully, looking nothing like someone who had just


    been attacked.


    She believed Brenna v


    was likel


    likely on her way up now.


    Suddenly, Rosie flung open the door, only to find Brenna standing there, arms folded, her stare chilling. Brenna''s outfit was as tidy as it had been in the morning.


    Rosie''s scalp tingled with fear, and she mmed the door shut with a bang, terrified.


    Brenna chuckled in disdain before walking into her own room.


    Rosie''s heart raced, its pounding so intense that she could hear it in her ears. She still couldn''t believe that Brenna hadn''t been assaulted but had instead ruthlessly beaten Jay and his men.


    It must have been Thiago''s doing. Brenna must havee out unscathed today because Thiago had been there to protect her.


    How could Brenna, looking so fragile, possibly be so skilled in a fight?


    17.12


    Chapter 126 Teach Her A Lesson


    Rosie''s mind kept reying Brenna''s terrifying gaze, and she couldn''t shake the


    fear that Brenna would seek brutal revenge on her.

 Chapter 127

    Chapter 127 The


    Customized Car


    After her shower, Brenna booted up herptop and logged into the home security system. She swiftly typed severalmands before heading downstairs.


    Inside the expansive garage of the Harper family home, seven vehicles of various colors and styles were parked, each unique in its design. Rosie''s favorite stood out, a spotless white car.


    Brenna lifted the car''s hood, made a few quick adjustments to its engine, and then closed it back up before heading back to her bedroom.


    Having reset the security footage, Brenna finally settled into bed for the night.


    On a rxed Saturday with no studiomitments, Brenna savored the luxury of extra sleep. Giselle quietly entered her room, saw how soundly she was sleeping, and decided to let her rest, remembering howte she had returned the night before.


    By eleven in the morning, Brenna finally opened her bedroom door, greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of braised ribs rising from downstairs. She took a deep breath, savoring the scent. "That smells amazing," she said.


    With a spring in her step, she headed downstairs to find Giselle in the middle of cooking. "You woke up just in time," Giselle said. "I''m nearly done with the braised ribs-it''s my signature dish. I''ve never had the chance to make it for you until today, so you must try it."


    Giselle took off her apron and eagerly guided Brenna outside, where a vibrant red sedan was parked in the yard. Beside the vibrant vehicle stood Rosie, clearly captivated by it as her fingers traced its gleaming surface. This unique shade was clearly a custom choice by the Harper family.


    The car boasted a sleek exterior and a chic interior, unmistakably tailored for a feminine touch.


    The dashboard and the steering wheel was custom-designed, enhancing its appeal to women,


    Rosie eagerly opened the door and settled into the driver''s seat, admiring the dual start options-voice-activated and manual.


    "Start," shemanded, and the car roared to life with the smart system''s swift response,


    She was amazed by its stability and impressive safety features, quickly bing captivated by the vehicle. Considering her old car had served her for years, this upgrade couldn''t havee at a better time. Circling the sleek new car, Giselle exined its cutting-edge features as Brenna listened intently At one point, she even popped the hood to showcase the advanced power system underneath Looking through the windshield, Brenna noticed Rosie sitting inside, her expression smug and filled with self-


    1713


    Chapter 127 The Customized Car


    satisfaction.


    Clearly, the car''s design and potential performance were exceptional.


    Brenna, unting her mechanical engineering expertise, tinkered with the engine, "Mom, I''ve studied. mechanical engineering, so I can immediately recognize that this car''s power system is top-notch," she said, sharing insights while Giselle nodded appreciatively.


    "We had this custom-made for your return," Giselle said. "It was a challenging project due to the high standards we insisted on. How do you feel about the color? We can change it if it''s not to your liking"


    As Giselle lovingly shared every detail about the car, her face softened with tenderness. But when she opened the car door and saw Rosiefortably sitting inside, her smile quickly disappeared.


    Giselle''s voice became firm. "Rosie, please get out of the car. This car was specifically customized for Brenna,


    not you.


    Rosie''s expression soured, but she remained where she was, fluttering her eyshes at Giselle. "Mom, can''t I keep it? I''ve really taken a liking to it."


    Rosic took Giselle''s arm, looking up at her with a sincere, pleading expression. Giselle remained firm as she answered, "You already have a car worth millions, and it''s barely a year old. Brenna, however, has been home for a while and still doesn''t have a car of her own."


    Rosie forced a polite smile and gently said, "Brenna may not have a car, but I''ve noticed she never drives. She''s always being chauffeured or taking cabs. Does she even know how to drive, Mom? Maybe this car could be


    mine instead?"


    She gently nudged Giselle''s arm and added, "When Brenna finally decides to drive, we could always create an even better car for her, right?¡±


    Realizing the uniqueness of this car, equipped with thetest technology and likely valued over ten million dors, Rosie was mesmerized.


    Despite not being Giselle''s biological daughter, her determination to own this car remained unshakable.


    Stubbornly, she stayed seated, curious about what Giselle could do.


    Brenna''s face darkened. Rosie''s boldness in iming what was hers hit a nerve. Did Rosie really think she was entitled to whatever she wanted?


    Brenna reached for Giselle''s sleeve. "Mom, it''s okay. She can keep this one. Why not design another one for me? I''d love it in deep-sea blue," she said.


    The stern expression on Giselle''s face revealed her frustration with Rosie''s boldness to im the car.


    Brenna reassured Giselle with a smile, "Really, Mom, I''m fine with it. As a car designer, I''m excited to create. my own vehicle."


    Exhaling deeply, Giselle guided Brenna back to the living room. "We actuallymissioned two cars-one in red and the other in deep-sea blue. I picked the red thinking it''d suit you better. But if she''s so attached to it, let her have it. You can have the blue one," she said.


    Meanwhile, outside, Rosie was already speeding off in the red car


    1717


    ¤Ê

 nce His Wife, Now His Rival 128

    Chapter 128 Car ident


    Rosie drove through the neighborhood, her phone pressed to her ese Sexting like she owned the world


    "I had someone deal with her she knows it was me, but she can''t prove a thing what in the ping to do about


    a it?" she said to Sylvie, brushing off Brenna like a mere afterthought "I used to think she was something special with all those awards the racked up studying abroad, but really, she is just average''


    Back in her bedroom, sylvie was still trying to decide on an outfit for the day


    She had her own score to settle with Brenns. After Brenna had drugged herst time, it had taken days for her


    to recover. Now, she was already plotting her revenge.


    She said, "So, how did you deal with her? Why didn''t you tell me? I hate her so much now. I would love to see her humiliated with my own eyes. She is vicious and arrogant, and she also knows martial arts. She is no pushover. You should have seen how badly she beat Brandon up that day."


    That jogged Rosie''s memory. Sylvie had mentioned something like that a few days earlier. "Wait, you are telling me Brenna can fight?" Rosie asked.


    Her thoughts drifted back to the previous night when Brenna had returned without a scratch. She had assumed Thiago had kept Brenna safe, but now it looked like that wasn''t true at all


    Sylvie replied, "Yeah. She is skilled in fighting. A few guys tried to take her on, but they couldn''t handle be Why do you ask? Don''t tell me she got away without a scratch again this time.


    Rosie''s blood boiled as the frustration spilled over. "Yeah! I''m beyond livid! Jay runs Shirie¨Cthere is nothing that man can''t handle. I told him to bring more men! And even with that kind of backup, they still couldn''t take down Thiago and Brenna!" she said.


    Her face darkened as she drove out of the neighborhood onto the main road, not noticing anything amiss with


    her car.


    Rosie kept ranting to Sylvie, her voice sharp with anger. "Next time, I''ll find someone even tougher to deal with Brenna. I refuse to believe I can''t bring her down. This is driving me insane!"


    She let her eyes drift over the sleek, high-end interior of the car, and a small smirk crept across her face. "My mother ordered this red beauty for Brenna a while ago. But I snatched it from her. It''s felt incredibly satisfying."


    she said.


    Sylvie scoffed on the other end of the line, fanning the mes. "You are way too easily pleased. Didn''t you say your mom bought it for her biological daughter and didn''t even bother getting you one? Why are you being so pleased now anyway?" she said.


    Rosie''s smile vanished. Her face clouded over. She''d long noticed how Giselle and Shepard openly favored Brenna. The warmth she had once felt for Giselle had cooled into something bitter. Now, she considered her no different than any other elder in the Harper family. If it weren''t for the fear of losing her stake in the Harper Group, she would have left the Harper family long ago


    17.13


    ident


    She muttered bitterly, "That''s exactly why i took it from Brenna Why is she so damn lucky? She has parents. who actually care about her, and even than dotes on her. It''s just not fair. Whatever she has, Fl take it from


    ber"


    Sylvie said, "I''ll help you! Where are you? I want to see your fancy new ride." Rosie finally felt somewhat better. T''ll go to your ce and pick you up," she said


    She then hung up, her foot pressing harder on the gas as she thought about scheming with Sylvie about how to


    deal with Brenna


    The road was empty, so she pressed the elerator. As she approached a red light, she instinctively tapped the brakes. However, the car didn''t slow down.


    Her heart skipped a beat as she muttered nervously, "How could a brand-new car break down so soon? This car costs ten million dors...


    Panic surged as she pressed harder on the brakes, silently hoping nothing would go wrong But the car didn''t


    stop.


    The car hurtled toward the vehicle ahead, and Rosie squeezed her eyes shut, bracing for the inevitable crash


    She knew that at this speed, crashing into the car in front of her could be fatal.


    What baffled her was how a ten-million-dor car could suffer brake failure like this.


    Cars like this usually underwent rigorous safety testing before leaving the factory, and Harper Group''s vehicles had a reputation for top-tier safety. Something like this just shouldn''t happen


    In that split second, a whirlwind of thoughts raced through Rosie''s mind. Maybe Giselle had rushed the car''s delivery, skipping some essential safety checks


    What terrible luck. If she had known this was going to happen, she never would have fought Brenna for this car


    in the first ce.


    A deafening bang rang out as the airbags deployed all around her.


    Dazed and disoriented, she heard a series of crashes as the impact triggered a chain reaction of collisions. Cars on both sides were now part of the wreckage, with over a dozen vehicles in the pile-up.


    The road had now turned into a chaotic tangle of wrecked cars.


    Rosie''s car finally came to a stop. She covered her ears, flinching at the ring horns and shouting voices outside. With trembling hands, she shifted her legs and was relieved to find she wasn''t trapped.


    Thank goodness. She pushed the door open and stepped out to assess the situation. The sight before her was


    a mess.


    The car she had mmed into was an expensive luxury car. Inside, the young driver struggled, his legs pinned down from the collision Furious, he wrenched his door open and screamed at Rosie, "Have you lost your damn mind? Do you even know how to o drive?"


    Other drivers were emerging from their cars to inspect the damage. Though it wasn''t a major ident, every car was badly damaged, leaving the owners livid.


    A middle-aged man stormed over and pointed at Rosie angrily "What the hell were you doing? Are you blind?"


    he eximed

 Chapter 129

    Chapter 129 Did You Tamper With The Brakes


    Rosie stood in the middle of the chaos, finally able to take in the damage. The front of her car was wrecked, but at least it hadn''t gone up in mes. She had to admit the Harper Group''s cars were built tost


    She stayedposed and let the furious car owners shout and fume. When their voices began to die down, she lifted her chin with a look of disdain. ¡°What''s all the yelling for? They''re just a few cars. I can afford topensate you all!" she said.


    The driver of the car before her was trapped inside, but two young men from the backseat had already climbed


    out.


    "So what if you''ve got money?" one of them snapped. "If you don''t know how to drive, stay off the damn read!"


    He pointed furiously at the wrecked luxury car. "My buddy just bought this for 18 million. Today was his first time driving it, and he had the bad luck of running into you. What are the odds? Look at it. The front and back of the car arepletely totaled. You''re recing the whole thing, and you''re paying for his medical bills, too. He''s still stuck inside!"


    He threw a nce at Rosie''s car. The front was crushed beyond recognition, yet Rosie stood there without so


    much as a bruise.


    He said, "What kind of car is yours? Never seen it before."


    Rosie rolled her eyes, clearly unimpressed. "It''s custom-made. It costs over ten million," she said.


    With an air of superiority, she scanned the crowd, then pulled out her phone and dialed Sylvie. "I''ve been in a car ident. Traffic''s a mess. Come pick me up."


    Without skipping a beat, she called her secretary. She then said to the people around her, "Stop yelling I''ll pay for all the damages. My secretary will sort this outter. I don''t have time for this."


    She turned and walked off arrogantly


    The car owners were furious. One of them stepped in front of her, blocking her path. A woman, clearly just as angry, shoved her. "Who do you think you are, walking around like you own the ce? You think you can just throw money at us and leave? So what if your car''s worth over ten million? Now it''s just scrap metal. You think we''re fools who''ll let this go easily?"


    "Exactly!" another driver chimed in. "I''ve seen vain women like you before. You''re probably just some rich guy''s side piece. Dressed to impress but not a cent to your name?


    Rosie''s anger red "Watch your mouth!"


    Another middle-aged driver, cigarette dangling from his lips, stepped forward. "Don''t y dumb. You look like


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    Chapter 129 Did You Tamer With The Bakes


    a mistress. shy outfit, arrogant attitude what else could you be? Don''t even think about leaving now You''re staying right here until the police show up. If you run off, how are we supposed to track you down? You think you''ve got enough topensate us all?"


    Surrounded by angry car owners, Rosie found herself trapped with no way out. Their furious expressions rattled her, and panic crept in. With trembling hands, she called Ernst and asked him toe help.


    Thankfully, the police arrived not long after. Though Rosie''s heart was still pounding, the fear of being physically attacked eased once the officers stepped


    in.


    By the time everything was settled, it was already past one in the afternoon


    Outside the police station, Ernst walked beside her and cast a nce at the wrecked vehicle. "Isn''t that the custom-made car for Brenna? Why were you driving it?" he asked


    Rosie didn''t know how to answer, so she tried to brush it off. "What''s wrong with me taking it for a spin? I''ve never driven a car like that before. I just wanted to try it. How was I supposed to know the brakes would fail..


    she muttered.


    Ernst frowned. "That''s impossible. That car''s known for having some of the best performance in the world. The brakes wouldn''t fail just like that. And why were you driving her car in the first ce?"


    "Mom had the car made for her, but not for me. How is that fair?" Rosie whined. "I''m not happy about it. Ernst, I want one, too. It has to be a better one than Brenna''s. My parents are gone, and no one cares about me in the family. You''re the only one who treats me well. Please, Ernst."


    Ernst''s expression softened. It was true, though. Brenna was surrounded by love. She had their parents and both brothers looking out for her. But Rosie? Lately, everyone seemed to being down on her, and she was


    indeed a bit pitiful.


    Ernst sighed. "Fine. I''ll arrange it."


    Rosic beamed. "I knew you were the best, Ernst!"


    Just then, Sylvie appeared at the entrance of the police station. She offered a polite nod to Ernst, then took Rosie by the arm and led her away


    Ernst returned to the Harper family''s residence and went straight to the third floor. He then rapped firmly on Brenna''s door.


    Brenna opened the door, surprised. "Ernst, I thought you were at thepany," she said.


    Without answering, Ernst stepped inside and shut the door behind him. "You studied mechanics. You know how cars work inside and out. Rosie took your car, which was wrong, yes. But I want an answer-did you tamper with the brakes?" he said.


    Brenna let out a humorlessugh. "Are you assuming I tampered with it? Why bother asking me at all? Just go ahead and call the police if you think I tampered with the car."


    Ernst''s expression darkened. Brenna''s attitude only fueled his anger. "You and Rosie haven''t exactly been. getting along. Don''t think I''m blind to your schemes. Rosie''s parents are gone, but I''m still here. As long as I''m around, I won''t let you harm her. She took your car and ended up in a rear-end collision. She could''ve died"" he said


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    Brenna gare formed reld and renting That car was deterred today only saw it with Men Fira fest minute I never even troched it If you want answers then investigate properly before you the securatifi round"

 Chapter 130

    Chapter 130 Do You Have Any Evidence


    Brenna flung the door open without warning and called Giselle out of the master bedroom.


    "What happened?" Giselle naked, noticing the siblings looked upset as if they had just had a heated argument


    She fixed a stern look on her son, her voice sharp with disapproval. "Is this how you act like a big brother? How dare you bully your sister like this? She just got home, and you are already making her ufortable your sour expression!"


    Ernst was exasperated by Brenna''s habit of running to their parents, making it seem like he had bullied her Although angry, he knew better than tosh out at his mother. With a deep breath, he steadied himself and exined what had happened with Rosie.


    Giselle''s face shifted from sternness to genuine concern as she listened. "A car ident? Was it serious?


    Rosie okay?"


    Ernst replied, "Thankfully, the car''s safety systems did their job, but the brakes failed. It caused a pile-up We will probably have to pay for the damages, but she''s okay, Mom. Don''t worry."


    Giselle nodded with a peculiar expression. Then, she went back to her bedroom to call Rosie.


    Rosie was in tears. Giselle spent a long timeforting her and asking what had happened before finally ending the call.


    When she returned, she looked at Ernst sternly and asked, "What makes you think Brenna had something to do with the brakes? That''s a heavy usation. Do you have any evidence?"


    Ernst scoffed, his expression making it clear he thought the answer was obvious. "Mom, do I even need to spell it out? Brenna is the only one in this family who can''t stand Rosie. Who else would go to such lengths to hurt her? Not long ago, someone shredded Rosie''s clothes, and we never figured out who did it. Now, Rosie has been in a car ident. I don''t even want to imagine what mighte next. Don''t you think this is a serious matter? Giselle let out a displeased huff. "What kind of nonsense are you spouting? How can you use Brenna without a shred of proof? And as for today''s ident-the car was delivered straight from thepany. It was perfectly fine on the way here. So how did it suddenly malfunction the moment Rosie got behind the wheel?" Ernst jabbed a finger in Brenna''s direction. "She tampered with the brakes! She has studied mechanics and knows cars inside and out. Pulling something like this would be child''s y for her," he said.


    Giselle''s expression darkened as she grabbed Ernst''s arm and scolded him, "Do you even hear yourself? Brenna slept until eleven today! I took her to check out the car the moment she got up, but Rosie insisted on taking Brenna never evenid a hand on the steering wheel I was standing right there the whole time! If you''re so eager to point fingers, why not use me while you are at it?"


    ck a few more times in frustration "You idiot! How could you not trust your own sister? Just because she studies mechanics and knows her way around cars doesn''t mean she did it! That''s the most ridiculous logic I''ve ever heard. If you use her again without proof, don''t bother setting foot in this house


    again


    Brenna arched an eyebrow and spread her hands in resignation "Mom was with me the entire time while I was checking the car. If I had tampered with the brakes, don''t you think she would have noticed?" she said to Ernst


    Giselle''s expression darkened with anger as she said to Ernst, "I want you to apologize to your sister Now."


    "Sorry," Ernst muttered begrudgingly. He had no proof and knew his mother wasn''t the type to twist the facts.


    Still unconvinced, he headed straight to the surveince room to review the footage. As his mother had said, she and Brenna had merely inspected the car. Brenna had touched a few parts of the car, moving past them too quickly for any tampering to be possible.


    "Could it really be a manufacturing w?" he muttered, reying the clip where Brenna touched the car parts but finding nothing amiss.


    Upstairs, Giselle continued to console Brenna.


    ¡°Don''t take what Ernst said to heart. He''s just an idiot who is too protective of Rosie. The blue car has arrived.


    Let''s go check it out."


    With a reassuring smile, Giselle guided Brenna downstairs.


    On the first floor, Brenna saw Ernst emerging from the surveince room.


    They looked at each other, and despite everything, Ernst couldn''t help but ask, "Did you really not do anything


    to the car?"


    Before Brenna could even get a word out, Giselle marched over and punched Ernst on the back. "Enough with the nonsense! Get out of here!"


    Outside, a deep blue SUV was parked. Unlike the red one, it had a more solid andposed design, making it seem better suited for a man


    Brenna liked it the moment sheid eyes on it.


    "Thank you so much, Mom," she said.


    Ernst stood in front of the car, staring at it thoughtfully. If Brenna had really tampered with Rosie''s car, she was really out of line.


    To do it right under their mother''s nose without being noticed showed that she was extremely skilled.


    His eyes met Brenna''s for a few long seconds before he finally turned and walked away.


    Then, Brenna''s phone buzzed with a message from Ernst She nced down and read it.


    "Don''t think no one knows what you have done. I''m watching you."


    Brenna''s lips s curled into a faint smile.


    "Whatever," she replied.


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    Chapter 130 Do You Have Any Evidence


    She hadn''t actually done anything All she''d done was give Rosie a little scare if Ernst knew what Rosie had done to her, would he still stand by Rosie so blindly?


    Since Rosie had been ruthless toward her, how could she let her off so easily!


    This was just the beginning. The real show hadn''t even started.


    Brenna walked around the car, her eyes lighting up with satisfaction as shenspected every detail.


    Mother''s Day Limited-Tim

 Chapter 131

    Chapter 131 He Is Looking


    For Trouble


    An urgent car honk echoed at the driveway''s entrance.


    Turning her head, Brenna noticed Ethan came out of his vehicle.


    With quick steps and a look of deep concern, he approached her and examined her carefully. "Everything okay


    with you?" he asked


    A soft smile appeared on Brenna''s face, her posture calm and warm as she faced Ethan


    Seeing this unexpected warmth, Giselle was caught off guard, especially since Brenna had previously expressed no interest in Ethan. It seemed that something had changed between them.


    With a thoughtful frown, Giselle reflected on the unpredictable nature of youth, with their thoughts constantly shifting and hard to understand.


    Choosing not to interfere, Giselle headed indoors to give Ethan and Brenna some privacy.


    Ethan nodded at Giselle before turning to Brenna, lowering his voice. "I rushed over as soon as I heard about the incident near the Financial Building. Jay was seriously injured, and I was worried about you. I am d that


    you are okay."


    Brenna offered a reassuring smile, touched by Ethan''s concern for her. "Don''t worry, I took care of those thugs without any trouble," she said.


    Ethan''s face went serious, his mind spinning at Brenna''s casual disy of bravery. Considering Jay and his notorious associates, he couldn''t help but be amazed by her cou


    The images and reports online had shown the gangsters had been badly beaten, hinting at a formidable opponent. Ethan was both horrified and impressed by the mysterious defender.


    He hesitated before asking, "Were they targeting you in their attack?"


    Brenna gave a casual nod, downying the seriousness of the situation. "They were pretty average, nothing!


    couldn''t handle," she said.


    Relief washed over Ethan since he knew that she was fine.


    Brenna then gestured towards her new vehicle. "Check out the custom car my mom got me."


    Ethan''s thoughts were focused elsewhere despite Brenna''s words, and his tone grew serious. "Jay usually works for money. Do you have any idea who might have hired him to attack you this time?" he said.


    Wanting to see how Ethan would react, Brenna revealed the truth. "Rosie and Han hired him," she said Ethan, not surprised by the revtion, reacted instantly as his fist struck the car roof in frustration. "I had a


    17:13


    feating it was them. They won''t get away with this We need to ensure the Moreno family faces swift justice


    than felt a mix of pity for Brenna and amazement at her unexpected strength, especially considering her dedicate appearance. He wondered what hardships she must have faced within the Barrett family to develop


    without a doubt, she must have faced countless challenges that had forged her into the strong person she had


    be


    "Next time you workte, don''t head home by yourself. Let me drive you," Ethan said.


    After spending some time with Brenna, Ethan left. While driving, he called a high- ranking city official to set up a dinner meeting for that evening


    Before at the Imperial Bar, Brenna had be the target of Han and Brandon''s bullying, a situation that Ethan had entrusted Joonas to handle. However, Ethan hadn''t expected Han''s continued recklessness-it seemed like he was looking for trouble!


    Ethan reached out to Joonas "Han''s stirring up trouble again. Have someone break one of his legs to teach him a lesson. Do a thorough investigation and make sure he''s locked away for good."


    Elsewhere, Han was digging through old belongings in the abandoned Moreno family residence''s basement, a ce cluttered with items they couldn''t part with but no longer used. His childhood memories included glimpses of items owned by Thiago''s mother.


    He carefully searched through the clutter, his injured right hand slowing him down.


    Near the end of his search, he uncovered a diary, a ne, and a bracelet tucked away in a dusty corner. The "diary belonged to Thiago''s mother. The ne and the bracelet were Thiago''s grandmother''s wedding gift for


    Thiago''s mother, holding great sentimental value.


    He remembered how Thiago''s mother had once made a special trip back to get


    these precious items but in vain. Moving to a brighter area upstairs, Han snapped photos of the items he had found and sent them to Thiago.


    As expected, Thiago soon called him.


    "What will it take for you to give these items to me?" Thiago''s voice was cold. It was clear he was barely concealing his anger.


    Leaning back on the couch, Han casually flipped through the worn pages of the diary, reading it out loud. "I uncovered a devastating truth today. My sister and my husband... I caught them kissing. My sister admitted she was pregnant. How long has this betrayal been going on? I''ve been kept in the dark, looking like aplete fool. I confronted my husband at dinner. What did I do to deserve this? Did I do something wrong? If he told me, maybe I''d try to change. I might even overlook their affair, as long as they kept it away from our home."

 Chapter 132

    Chapter 132 Bring Brenna


    With You


    "Thiago, just listen to this. Your mother was pathetic. She put up with her husband''s cheating and said nothing." Han sneered. "Want me to keep reading? Maybe then you''ll really understand what kind of woman your


    mother was."


    Thiago''s face darkened, and his eyes burned with fury. He couldn''t wrap his head around it. In his mind, his mother should have despised Roberto, sought revenge, and made him suffer.


    But she hadn''t. She had endured the pain silently. Why was that?


    "Give the diary to me," he said in amanding tone.


    Han gave a mockingugh. "Give it to you? Sure. You know that abandoned sports field near the old school? The one close to our house? Meet me there tonight at ten. Bring Brenna with you. And don''t even think about calling the cops."


    Thiago knew exactly what this was. A trap. If it were just about him, he wouldn''t hesitate to walk right into it. But dragging Brenna into something this dangerous was out of the question.


    There was a brief silence on the line.


    Han, already losing patience, could sense Thiago''s hesitation. He sneered, knowing full well Thiago wouldn''t agree to bring Brenna


    He said, "If either of you fails to show up, I''ll destroy the diary, the ne, and the bracelet."


    Thiago''s anger red. He clenched his jaw and bellowed, "You wouldn''t dare!"


    Just then, a harsh sound of papers being ripped crackled through the phone.


    "You think I won''t do it? Say something stupid, and I''ll tear the entire diary apart and toss it in the fire. It''s not my mother''s. So I don''t give a damn about it," Han sneered.


    Then, his voice grew even more menacing "If you want your mother''s things, you''ll do exactly as I say.¡±


    With that, he ended the call and rushed toward the door. But before he could reach it, voices drifted in from the yard. Through the ss, he caught sight of several officials from the district attorney''s office. Panic surged through him, and he bolted for the back exit.


    He couldn''t make out every word, but he caught snippets of their conversation. "Roberto said there''s still a stash of gold bars in his bedroom. Didn''t we already search the ce? We didn''t find any gold bars..."


    Han didn''t wait to hear the rest. His instincts screamed at him to run. Even if they hadn''t uncovered his crimes yet, he couldn''t risk seeing those people.


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    Chapter 132 Bring Brenna With You


    He slipped out of the sealed area and kept walking until he felt sure no one was following him. Without a car and couldn''t risk being seen on public transport, he had no choice but to keep moving on foot


    Eventually, he stopped at a quiet bus stop and called Rosie.


    "Miss Harper, what the hell is going on?" Han hissed into the phone. "Didn''t you say everything was settled with the tax bureau and the district attorney''s office? Why are they still digging into my father''s affairs**


    On the other end of the line, Rosie sounded just as annoyed. "How should I know? You were there. The tax bureau chief himself promised you that the investigation into the Moreno family''s taxes would be dropped. We even had dinner with the DA''s people and paid them off. Something must''ve gone wrong, but don''t me me for it. And stop calling me to bother me. Didn''t you say you had your own way of dealing with Thiago? Handle


    him on your own."


    With that, she hung up.


    Han stared at the screen, fuming. "Fucking useless! Rosie, if I find out you''re ying me, you''ll regret it!" he


    muttered,


    After a while, he dialed Brandon''s number. Brandon''s father was the deputy mayor, someone with enough. power to make this entire mess disappear.


    He had already tried calling Brandon several times over the past few days, but none of the calls had gone through. At this point, he suspected Brandon was avoiding him.


    Han cursed under his breath, "Damn it! When I was handing you money, you were quick to take it. Now that I''m in trouble, you''re faster than anyone at disappearing!"


    The call didn''t connect. After a few moments, it disconnected automatically.


    Right then, a news alert popped up on his screen. Han nced at it and froze. That exined everything Brandon''s phone hadn''t been off because he was avoiding him.


    It turned out Brandon''s father had been suspended and was under investigation. What was more, Brandon. himself had been arrested for murder.


    Han stared at the news, eyes locked on the screen as he read


    every word.


    The article didn''t go into details. It only stated that Brandon and his father were under investigation for


    murder.


    Han thought back to all the shady dealings he and Brandon had been involved in. A cold sweat broke out on his back. If Brandon cracked under pressure, he might reveal everything to save himself.


    Just then, a bus came into view.


    Han quickly turned away. No way was he getting on public transport now.


    As the sun dipped lower in the sky, he finally reached the abandoned sports field near his old school. He paced across the cracked pavement and scanned the surroundings for any surveince cameras.


    After a careful sweep of the area, he was finally convinced there were no cameras. As night settled in, he found a concealed spot near the edge of the field and waited quietly for Thiago to show up.


    He pulled out the diary, the ne, and the bracelet from his bag. Then, he tucked them under a seat in the


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    Chapter 132 Bring Press With You


    stands


    He remembered hearing that Jay had taken a brutal beating from Thiago and Brenna With this thought in mind, he pulled out his phone and called Jay.


    As expected, soon, Jay was carried in by a group of his peop

 Chapter 133

    Chapter 133 Do You Have Feelings For Him


    Upon entering the abandoned yground, Thiago and Brenna surveyed the scene. The years of abandonment had covered the ground with a thickyer of dirt while towering weeds blocked their view of any hidden threats. A dim light struggled to pierce the dense overgrowth, casting an ominous shadow over the


    environment.


    The silence of the air was asionally broken by the sudden cries of wildlife, each one unsettling enough to


    make the faint-hearted feel uneasy.


    Despite everything, the two of them moved forward toward the faint light, showing no signs of hesitation.


    With a hint of regret in his voice, Thiago said, "Han won''t just let us go. He''s definitely going toy a trap. I can''t help but me myself for getting us involved in this."


    Brenna had already expected this situation. "Jay took a big blow because of us. It''s only a matter of time before he retaliates. We''ve dealt with worse situations abroad before. This is nothing."


    A brief walkter, Brenna''s phone broke the silence, Ethan''s urgent voice on the other end of the line. "Where are you? We need to discuss something important." Caught off guard by Ethan''ste call, Brenna responded, "I''m not at home right now. What''s up?"


    Ethan was still in his office, standing by the floor-to-ceiling window, overlooking the city of Shirie. His voice was firm as he said, "The situation with the Moreno family is a real nightmare. It''s not only about gangs and deaths -city officials are tangled up in it, too, Four of them have already been dragged into this. Your friend could be in serious trouble."


    Brenna looked at Thiago and switched the call to speakerphone so he could hear Ethan, too.


    As Thiago listened in, Brenna said to Ethan, "Are you looking into the Moreno family''s situation? Thiago''s with


    me now."


    A hint of jealousy slipped into Ethan''s voice when he learned that Brenna wasn''t by herself at this hour. "Are you alright? Tell me your location. I''ll go to see you."


    He was already on the move, sharing what he had discovered. "Prosecutors received anonymous tips connecting five deaths, including Roberto''s ex-wife and two of the Moreno family''s rivals, along with two others killed by Han. The police are searching everywhere for him now.


    Brenna nced at the distant light. "Han is here. You should call the police." ery nut and wait for


    or me


    Ethan''s worry deepened. "Meeting someone like Han is too dangerous. Don''t do it. Stay put Send me your location right now," he said.


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    der 133 Do You Have Feelings For Hom


    Chapter


    A sense of warmth spread through Brenna''s chest, and without hesitation, she sent him her locanon


    Despite this, she didn''t stop moving She kept walking toward the bright light ahead


    As for Thiago, he wasn''t concerned about the matter. After all, he was the one who had provided the anonymous tips that could bring down the Moreno family. He believed they were enough to bring the Mormo family down.


    "Mr. Mitchell seems to care a lot about you," Thiago said, his voice tinged with a trace of jealousy He was aware that, when it came to abilities, he fell shortpared to Ethan Brenna could look forward to a safe and happy future with Ethan, while with him, there was only uncertainty


    He wanted Brenna to have a happy life with Ethan, but he was still a bit bitter about it


    He asked, "Brenna, do you have feelings for him?"


    Brenna''s smile was faint. "I wouldn''t say I like him... But I can''t say I dislike him, either."


    They reached the source of the light atst. As expected, Han wasn''t by himself-lurking in the shadows and a menacing group of at least fifty men, waiting for them.


    When Han saw that Thiago had actually only brought Brenna here, he burst into mockingughter "ay. finish them off!" he shouted.


    But Jay wanted to be cautious. From his wheelchair, he gestured to one of his men, who quickly approached him


    "Mr. O''Caghan, they''re truly alone," the man said. "Their car''s parked a half- kilometer back. No one else came with them."


    Jay''s smugness was clear, but his caution took over. He knew better than to underestimate Brenna and Thiago. who were known for their incredible fighting skills, even with fifty men at his side.


    Preparation was key, and Jay had armed himself ordingly with weaponry loaned from his boss


    Thiago stood next to Brenna, calmly observing the group with an unwaveringposure


    "Where are the items I want?" he asked Han, unfazed.


    Han was irritated by Thiago''s calmness. He was well aware of the matter about Thiago and Brenna defeating Jay and his people before.


    Confusion filled his mind as he looked at Thiago and Brenna. They didn''t appear as intimidating as the rumors had imed. He leaned in toward Jay and whispered, "Make sure they are killed this time"


    Jay nodded and gave amanding gesture, signaling his men to surround the duo in a threatening manner. Han was shocked as he saw Jay escte the situation by arming his crew. Believing that Thiago''s and Brenna''s ends were near, he sneered, "Aren''t you afraid, even with all these men surrounding you?" Calmly, Thiago responded, "What''s there to be afraid of? These people are just a bunch of losers."

 Chapter 134

    Chapter 134 I Won''t Say It Again


    Han burst intoughter. "Are you out of your mind? Can''t you see Jay''s got guns? Do you really think you


    can outrun bullets?"


    "We''re not here to outrun anything" Thiago firmly stated, unfazed. He knew how the underworld worked and had already expected them to arrive with weapons. Han, as useless as ever, hade with backup, carrying guns. Disappointed but not surprised, Thiago ordered, "Hand the items over."


    Han let out a loud, smugugh. His arrogance showed in the way he carried himself. At first, he''d worried Jay''s men might fall to these two again. But now, Jay had guns, so he feared nothing


    He said, "I brought the goods. They''re stashed right here. If you''ve got what it takes, go ahead and find them. But I doubt you''ll even get the chance. Today, I''m going to make sure you regret ever crossing me. Thiago, I didn''t think you''d actually show up. Throwing your life away for a diary and a handful of useless junk? It''s not worth it. I never figured you''d turn out as foolish as your dead mother. Today, you''ll learn what it means to wish you were dead."


    Suddenly, Han yelled at the gunmen behind him, "Break his legs!"


    The men nced at Jay, then opened fire on Brenna and Thiago, who spun around and sprinted into the


    bushes.


    "They''re so stupid. Picking a ce like this... It''s a perfect ce for us to hide from the bullets," Brenna said loudly, making sure Han and Jay could hear every word.


    Jay''s face twisted in fury. He pped Han across the face and bellowed, "You idiot! With all this bush, once. they''re hiding in them, how do you n on finding them?"


    Han rubbed his face and mumbled, "I thought this ce was abandoned. I figured it''d be easier to kill them out here. I didn''t know it was such a good ce to hide..."


    Jay spat out a curse. "Idiot."


    With a wave of his hand, he sent his men to track down Brenna and Thiago.


    Regret churned in Han''s gut. He saw now just how stupid he had been. Frustration boiled over inside him.


    In the thick of the bushes, Brenna and Thiago didn''t move a muscle. Each time someone got close, they knocked them out fast and clean. Not a single sound escaped the scuffle.


    Half an hour crawled by. None of the men who had gone searching for Brenna and Thiago came back. Han and Jay felt a creeping sense of dread, especially thetter. Thest time he had faced them, he barely escaped with his life, so he kept his remaining men close.


    500


    1714


    ? Chapter 11: ont Say It Again.


    He knew if he ended up alone with Han, the fool would get him killed


    "Let''s get out of here now." Jay muttered.


    Han stepped in front of him, desperate "Jay, don''t! We haven''t killed them


    yet."


    Jay pped him again "Idiot! Look around you. Can''t you see? Our men are already down!"


    Having no idea what Brenna and Thiago were capable of, Han shook his head in disbelief "No way Maybe


    they''re just too scared toe out. We''ve got so many people with us. We can kill them."


    Jay stared at him, incredulous. He had never met anyone so thick-headed. "If you want to sit around and wait,


    go ahead. I''m out of here."


    "Stop! Don''t move!" Just then, dozens of armed police officers emerged from the bushes, weapons ready


    Han stood frozen,pletely blindsided. "I thought I told them not to call the cops!"


    Brenna and Thiago stepped out, both smirking at him.


    Without a word, Ethan protectively moved in front of Brenna, shielding her in case the gang did something reckless in desperation.


    The gang members turned on Jay and bolted, only to run straight into a wall of officers. Surrounded with nowhere to run, they dropped their weapons and surrendered.


    Ethan turned to Brenna and said, "You shouldn''t be here. It''s too dangerous. No more of this. I''ll only worry"


    Brenna nodded and looked up at him. "Alright. I''ll listen to you."


    She reached for his hand and slipped hers into his. Together, they headed for the police station. The night''s chaos required their cooperation with the investigation


    On the way, Ethan nced at Thiago and warned him, "Don''t drag my fianc¨¦e into this kind of mess again. Next time, I won''t let it slide. I don''t care how close you are to her. I won''t go easy on you."


    "My affairs are none of your concern," Thiago responded coldly


    Ethan said firmly, "I won''t say it again. You''d better remember that.¡±


    Thiago met his gaze with a cold stare. "Mr. Mitchell, I won''t repeat myself, either."


    Brenna paid no attention to the tension between them. Her head stayed down, eyes fixed on her phone.


    Ellie was in trouble abroad and couldn''t make it back for the time being. Brenna was checking in on her, trying to understand the situation and offer what advice she could


    It was aplicated situation. Ellie''s work had been stolen, but she was the one being used of giarism The case had gone to court, and it looked like she''d be stuck overseas for at least two months.


    "Should we ask Jayceon to help? From what I know, the Russell family has power and influence in Norview They might be able to help you," Brenna replied.


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 Chapter 135

    Chapter 135 You''re Really Heartless


    Brenna stared at the screen, waiting for Ellie''s response. When the message finally came, it was brief but loaded


    with emotion.


    "Not now. I don''t want to see him. If my son didn''t keep asking about his father, I would''ve erased him from my memorypletely."


    Staring at those lines on the screen, Brenna fell into deep thought, pondering how she could help her friend through this tough time.


    So absorbed was she in her reflection that she didn''t notice Ethan''s shadow creeping closer, his eyes darting to


    her screen with calcted intent.


    Seizing the opportunity, Ethan discreetly captured a photo of Brenna''s phone screen and forwarded it to Jayceon, his fingers moving with barely contained excitement.


    The revtion was staggering-Ellie had had a child with Jayceon. From the conversation, he estimated the boy


    to be about five.


    But something didn''t sit right. Jayceon had been desperately searching for Ellie for seven years, which meant


    the boy should be at least six.


    Ethan''s phone immediately erupted with Jayceon''s frantic responses. "Who are you with?"


    "Whose phone is this?"


    "Is this message from Ellie?"


    "Tell me, please. Why aren''t you answering?"


    "Ethan, I''m begging you. Please help me find out if it''s from her."


    "Get me Ellie''s contact, and I''m in your debt forever."


    "Do I have a son? Can you help me find out where Ellie is and what''s going on?" "Why are you ignoring me?"


    Ethan muted his phone, the screen fading to ck as he slipped it into his pocket. Jayceon''s relentless barrage


    of messages was easy to ignore, but the weight of his sneaky actions pressed against his conscience. If Brenna ever found out that he had been helping Jayceon behind her back, there was a real chance he would lose her for good. He knew what mattered more now.


    With a sigh, he retrieved his phone again, deleted the chat history with Jayceon, and blocked him.


    Only after doing all this did he feel somewhat relieved. Even if Brenna checked his messages now, she would


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    find nothing amiss. He smirked, feeling clever about his actions.


    Hours dragged by at the police station while Brenna assisted with the investigation. Ethan waited through the long night, ignoring the persistent vibrations in his pocket as Jayceon''s calls came in one after another-until he blocked those, too.


    Once the investigation was over and he finally brought Brenna home, Ethan returned to his own house, only to find Jayceon sitting in his living room, an unmistakable scowl darkening hi features.


    Ethan spared him a nce, his expression indifferent. He didn''t bother waiting for Jayceon to speak. "Don''t


    bother asking. I''ve got nothing more for you." His voice was t, final. "I won''t betray Brenna again."


    Jayceon''s expression immediately darkened more, his words heavy with frustration. "Please, just help me out


    here. I''ve been losing my mind searching for Ellie. Do you understand how devastated I felt when I saw what


    you sent me? She has been out there alone, raising a child, and I had no idea. What kind of person does that


    make me?" he said.


    Ethan''s voice remained calm, though it carried an undeniable edge. "That''s your mess to clean up, Jayceon.


    You''re the one who created this situation, and now, you have to face the consequences. You''ve got all the


    connections, all the resources-use them. I refuse to believe that with everything you have at your disposal, you


    can''t track her down. As a friend, I''ve done all I can for you."


    Jayceon''s jaw tightened as disappointment shed in his eyes. "You''re really


    heartless,¡± he muttered bitterly before storming toward the door.


    But just as he reached it, he stopped and turned back, his voice softer but stillced with pain. "Thanks, though.


    At least now I know Ellie''s in Norview."


    Ethan''s gaze softened for a moment, though his tone remained calm. "Norview is vast. Where would you even


    start to search for her?"


    Jayceon hesitated, his shoulders slumping under the weight of his emotions. ¡°She has ces she loves-ces that mean something to her. I''ll start there." He took


    a deep breath, determination flickering in his eyes despite his despair. "I''ve


    already booked a flight. Once I find her... I''ll thank you properly."


    Ethan nodded slowly, watching Jayceon intently as he spoke. He knew Jayceon had powerful connections in Norview-finding Ellie shouldn''t be impossible for him.


    ¡°I hope you find her,¡± Ethan said finally, his voice calm but sincere. When Brenna returned home, dawn was breaking, casting a soft light over the household. The staff at home was already busy preparing breakfast, their movements efficient.


    Shepard stepped out of his bedroom, blinking in surprise at the sight of Brenna in the hallway. "You''re up early -just getting back, or are you heading out?" he said, rubbing sleep from his eyes. Having returnedte himself, he had been unaware of her nighttime excursion.


    Brenna offered a casual reply, her tone light. "I went to visit a friend. Just returned now."


    She purposely kept the events of the previous evening to herself, not wanting to burden Shepard with concerns.


    Shepard studied Brenna for a moment before nodding. "Try not to make overnight stays a habit. The city''s not what it used to be. It''s not safe to be out at night," he said.


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    "Okay," Brenna replied with a nod.


    Then, a sudden realization sparked in her eyes. "Dad," she said, her voice sharper now. "What if Ernst actually loses the Harper Group''s CEO position?"


    Moving closer to Brenna, Shepard recognized the unspoken reference to the bet agreement in her words. Whilecking legal weight, honor would demand its fulfillment.


    He considered his response carefully, hands sliding into his pockets. "Truthfully? It wouldn''t affect much. Either I''d take the reins temporarily, or we''d bring in seasoned leadership. Thepany would operate as usual." His steady gaze held hers, projecting calm assurance.


    Brenna''s lips curved into a faint, knowing smile. "That''s reassuring. I''d never let


    my actions jeopardize the Harper Group-even if it meant conceding to Ernst," she


    said.


    Shepard''s expression softened with affection. "You''re a wise young woman. Your mother and I won''t let you suffer, not even because of your brother''s actions. I also heard you''ve already submitted your work. If you truly secure first ce, I''ll honor my promise and give you those shares," he said.


    "Thank you, Dad," Brenna replied, a warmth spreading through her chest.


    Later, as Shepard and Giselle lingered over breakfast, they discussed a stroll through the garden. Their ns were interrupted by the sight of two police cars parked at the entrance.


    Officers emerged from the cars, one clutching a document, and approached them. "Is this Rosie Harper''s residence?" one of them asked, his tone firm but polite.

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    Chapter 136 Please Come


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    Rosie slowly regained awareness, her mind still clouded with the lingering haze of sleep, making it hard to fully wake up. Her thoughts raced back to the previous evening, filled with anxious anticipation for updates from Jay about dealing with Brenna. She was certain that Jay would be able to kill Brenna this time, especially since he had brought a gun with him.


    She was well aware of where and when Jay had nned to meet Brenna, anticipating that the confrontation would conclude within an hour. Last night, she could barely contain her excitement at the prospect of Brenna''splete humiliation.


    Though it had beente, she had fought the urge to sleep, her thoughts consumed by the n. She had tried several times to contact Jay after eleven o''clock, but each attempt had ended in silence. Believing that Jay had likely been busy torturing Brenna, she had finally given up contacting Jay and drifted off to sleep.


    Upon waking, her first instinct was to try contacting Jay again. Surely, by now, he must have executed his n,


    and Brenna would have faced her dire fate.


    Jay wasn''t alone dealing with Brenna; he had his crew with him. Rosie believed that after suffering at their hands, Brenna would be so devastated that she might even consider ending her life herself, not needing Jay and


    his men to kill her.


    As she pondered this, Rosie''sughter erupted, echoing her anticipation. She dialed Jay''s number once more, a triumphant grin spreading across her face, yet the call remained unanswered.


    Her smile faltered. "Surely, Jay''s done with Brenna by now. Why isn''t he answering my call?" she muttered to


    herself, puzzled.


    Just then, a series of knocks interrupted her thoughts. With the phone in hand, Rosie approached the door and


    opened it.


    Standing outside the door was Rachael, her expression etched with concern. "Miss Harper, there are police officers here to see you," she said, her voice trembling with nervousness.


    Rosie was taken by surprise and quickly went over her recent actions, trying to figure out which one might have attracted the attention of the police.


    Fear was something she was unustomed to, thanks to the influence of her family. With a wave of her hand, she instructed Rachael, "Just tell them I''m still asleep."


    But before she could further dismiss the matter, two female officers came out of the elevator.


    Exuding authority in her sharp uniform, one of the officers stepped forward and handed an official document to Rosie. "Miss Harper, we need your cooperation for an investigation into a recent brawl. Pleasee with us," she said in a firm tone.


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    Seeing this, Rosie was displeased with Rachael. She scolded her in front of the officers. "How could you let them in? This is my home! Do you honestly think anyone can simply walk into the Harper family''s home like this?


    she said with a frown.


    The officers remained firm, unaffected by thevish surroundings or the suggestion that wealth might grant


    immunity.


    "Miss Harper, we need your cooperation," one officer said firmly to Rosie, Standing her ground


    Rosie pretended not to hear her and directed her scolding at Rachael with even greater force. "Make sure they leave immediately. They are not wee here," she said.


    In a quick motion, she mmed the door shut,pletely ignoring both the officers'' requests.


    With an air of arrogance, Rachael looked at the officers, her voice dripping with disdain. "You should leave Miss Harper is much too busy for this. If there''s a real issue, I rmend you contact the Harper Group''s legal department. Don''t expect any help from Miss Harper directly. Really, do you believe you can juste in and arrest Miss Harper like this?"


    She waved them off dismissively, trying to hurry the officers out. "I have no idea who let you in, but it''s time for you to leave," she said.


    The officers stood their ground, refusing to be swayed, and firmly moved Rachael


    aside. "Interfering with police work is a serious offense," they warned.


    Despite the repeated knocking, Rosie remained behind the closed door, continuously trying to reach Jay by phone.


    Convinced the officers couldn''t possibly enter her room, she didn''t bother changing out of her pajamas.


    Jay''s phone remained unreachable, and the persistent knocking at the door grew more irritating to Rosie. Despite this, she remained confident that the officers wouldn''t escte the situation in her home.


    Shepard and Giselle stood nearby, clearly frustrated. After speaking with the officers, they had learned that Rosie was suspected of being involved in an incident, with Brenna as the victim.


    Furious at the deceitful tactics Rosie had used against Brenna, Giselle had agreed to let the officers in.


    Just then, one officer said to Giselle respectfully, "Mrs. Harper, could you please open the door to Miss Harper''s


    room for us?"


    Fuming with anger, Giselle retrieved the key and unlocked Rosie''s door.


    Meanwhile, Rosie vented over the phone to Sylvie about the audacity of the


    police. ¡°Can you believe those officers, Sylvie? Do they really think they can arrest anyone from the Harper family? It''s absolutely ridiculous! No one dares to challenge the Harper family," she said.


    "Pleasee with us now," one officer interjected, securing handcuffs around Rosie''s wrists.


    Rosie turned to find Giselle standing there, her anger clear in her posture, holding the key to the door. Confused, she eximed, "Mom, why did you let them in? What gives them the right to arrest me? Isn''t this something ourpany legal team should be dealing with? Since when has it been necessary for us to handle a matter like this ourselves?"


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    Brenna stepped out of her room and quietly watched Rosie, who was now in handcuffs.


    Rosie, surprised to see Brenna unharmed, eximed, ¡°You''re actually okay?"


    She quickly assumed Brenna was the one who had called the police and became angry, saying, "Why couldn''t we resolve this between ourselves? Why involve the police? Do you understand the harm this could cause to the Harper Group?"


    Brenna, delivering a sharp p that nearly sent Rosie tumbling, retorted, "Do you realize the harm your n would have caused me if it had seeded?"


    Brenna then struck Rosie three more times rapidly, each p leaving Rosie dazed and her cheeks inmed.


    Rosie shouted in fury, "Mom, Dad, won''t you stop her? How can she be allowed to hit me like this?"


    She squeezed her eyes shut, bracing herself for another blow from Brenna, confused and shaken that her parents had stood by as she got hit.


    Her heart dropped. She thought she would be abandoned by the Harper family


    now.


    However, no further p came. When she cautiously opened her eyes, she saw her parents looking at her with a blend of disappointment, anger, and perhaps a readiness to strike her themselves.


    In the next instant, Shepard pped her.


    "You ungrateful brat!" Shepard, overwhelmed with anger, hit someone for the first time in his life, shockingly


    his own daughter.


    Even during their childhood mistakes, he had never physically disciplined his children. But now, Rosie''s actions had deeply disappointed him.


    "You''ve disappointed me deeply this time. Move out as soon as you can. And stop calling us Mom and Dad." He gestured to the police officers, signaling them to escort Rosie away.


    Rosie, led away without resistance, was confident she would return soon, believing the Harper family''s concern for their reputation would prevent her prolonged detention.


    Giselle hugged Brenna, saying apologetically, "My dear, we''re so sorry. We were unaware of the plotting against you. I can''t imagine how you dealt with those thugs."


    Shepard also expressed his guilt, saying, "I''m at fault this time. We shouldn''t have forgiven Rosie before. We should have kicked her out of our home immediately at that time."


    Brenna stayedposed. "I''m alright, aren''t I? Her petty schemes can''t touch me," she replied.


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    As Rosie was about to be put into the police car at the house''s entrance, she stopped, her stance filled with defiance. "You''re really going to take me to the station dressed like this? That can''t be right. I want to change my clothes. You can''t refuse me this," she said.


    "We can''t let you do that," replied an officer briskly, ushering her into the car without a second thought.


    "How can you treat me this way? Don''t you know the Harper family could destroy your career?" Rosie


    eximed in anger.


    The two officers sat on either side of Rosie in the vehicle. The officer to her left responded sharply, "Oh really? If you''re so powerful, why are you sitting in our police car right now?"


    Rosie, undeterred by her words, leaned back and sneered, "Fine, just wait. You''ll regret this decision soon."


    She attempted to retrieve her phone to call Ernst, but the officer quickly took it away.


    Rosie said, "Give my phone back! I''m not a criminal yet. You can''t just take my personal items. I''ll sue you!"


    The Harper family''s servants gathered to watch Rosie being taken away, murmuring to each other until the police car was out of sight.


    On the third floor, Rachael was still pleading with the Harper couple on Rosie''s behalf. She said, "Mr. and Mrs. Harper, there has to be a misunderstanding. Rosie has always treated Brenna well. She wouldn''t harm her. Please believe her. If you kick her out now, what will be of her ce in the Harper family? Her rights would be unprotected."


    The more Shepard watched Rachael, the more his frustration grew. As he thought about it, Rachael had worked for the Harper family for more than twenty years and had always been treated well.


    She had always been close to Rosie, and he couldn''t help but wonder if she had yed a part in offering Rosie bad advice for her scheme against Brenna.


    "You''re fired! Gather your things and leave at once!" said Shepard sharply, his expression stern, making it clear there was no room for discussion.


    Rachael''s face turned ashen, her concern for Rosie forgotten. She begged desperately, "Please don''t send me away. I''ve served the Harper family for more than twenty years. I''ve watched the children in the Harper family grow up. They''re like my own. How will they manage without me?"


    Giselle, visibly angry, said to her, "Why should my children depend on you? Since you''re so close to Rosie, perhaps you should go to her and see if she''ll let you live with her!"


    Giselle then instructed the other servants sternly, "Pack up Rosie''s belongings and leave them outside the gate." Seeing the resolve in Giselle''s eyes, Rachael dropped to her knees with a heavy thud and said, "You watched Miss Rosie Harper grow up. Can you truly bring yourself to kick her out like this?"


    She then turned to Brenna, saying, "And Miss Brenna Harper, you returned and drove Miss Rosie Harper away immediately. How do you think thedies of high society will think of you after this? Even if you disregard Miss Rosie Harper''s well- being, you should think about your own reputation."

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    All of Rosie''s personal belongings had been packed up and were now piled outside the Harper family''s gate.


    "Here''s your sry for the month," Julia said, handing Rachael arge envelope stuffed with cash.


    Rachael was outraged when she received it. "The Harper family has no heart! They spoil their daughter and neglect their niece''s well-being!" she eximed.


    She then counted the cash inside and found only seven thousand dors. She stopped Julia as she was about to walk away. She asked, "Where''s the severance pay for me? Isn''t it mandated byborws that "


    Julia sneered and interjected, "Severance pay? You''re dreaming. Do you really think you''d get that after being


    fired?"


    Rachael clung to Julia, refusing to release her grip. "I wasn''t just dismissed! I''ve dedicated years of hard work to the Harper family, even if it went unnoticed. Why shouldn''t I receive my severance pay? I will sue the Harper family for this!" she said.


    Julia withdrew her hand with a scornful expression. "You think you can sue the Harper family?" she said.


    Rachael feltpletely defeated. She had once used those exact words on outsiders who dared cause trouble for the Harper family. Now, hearing Julia throw them back at her felt bitterly ironic.


    Still, Julia wasn''t wrong. The Harper family wasn''t the kind of people someone in her position could afford to challenge. Rachael believed there was nothing she could do about this now.


    Having lost her job because of Rosie, she could only hope Rosie would take her in and continue paying her the


    same sry.


    She called a cab to transport Rosie''s possessions to one of her private residences.


    Previously, the Harper family had taken pity on Rosie, who was orphaned and without support. They had treated her generously. Ableson had given Rosie a 200-square-meter apartment and a car.


    Rosie''s grandparents had given her two houses, apany yielding annual profits of about three hundred million, and 0.5% of the Harper Group''s shares. Even without working, Rosie would remain rich.


    Shepard and Giselle had given Rosie even more-two houses, two cars, and two shops. Rosie had also gotten lots of money and expensive bags and clothes from them.


    In the living room, Shepard and Giselle were too upset to calm down, still venting out their frustrations. Giselle, too infuriated to even sip her coffee, sat on the sofa. "I can''t believe we raised someone like that," she


    said.


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    Shepard, visibly angry and frequently shaking his head, replied, "We''ve been so good to Rosie, yet she plotted against our real daughter. I never imagined she could be so malicious. If it weren''t for the police officers telling me that, I wouldn''t have known the extent of Brenna''s suffering."


    He then took out his phone and transferred two hundred million to Brenna.


    Giselle, seated next to him, took his hand and said gravely, "Contact Mr. Gomez, the chief of the police station.


    We must not let those involved go unpunished, and we need to make it clear to Rosie that she cannot bully our


    daughter."


    Shepard agreed and promptly pulled out his phone to make the call.


    Meanwhile, Giselle headed upstairs to offer Brenna someforting gifts as a sign of support.


    In her bedroom, Brenna was meticulously examining her helicopter design drafts for any ws when a notification on her phone caught her attention.


    She was astonished to see the message-her father had transferred two hundred million into her ount!


    Rachael arranged for a moving service to transport Rosie''s possessions to her spacious apartment. Knowing Rosie had been arrested in her pajamas, she also picked out an outfit to take to her.


    The police station buzzed with movement when she arrived, the lobby alive with people rushing in every


    direction.


    Rachael approached a uniformed officer. "I''m the housekeeper for the Harper family. I need to see Rosie Harper immediately. It''s urgent, and you can''t afford to dy matters concerning Miss Harper!" she said arrogantly.


    The officer,posed and professional, gave Rachael a brief look, silently dismissing her. Regardless of her being the Harper family''s housekeeper, the notion that she couldmand priority over police procedures was


    absurd.


    He ignored her and continued on his way.


    "Are you ignoring me? How dare you treat me with that attitude?" Rachael called out in frustration after him.


    Yet, she was met with indifference.


    Left with no other option, she marched into the office of the person in charge of Rosie''s case. Inside, three officers were focused on sorting through paperwork, and a man with blonde hair, handcuffed and looking submissive, sat in a corner. "I''m here on behalf of the Harper family to deliver clothes for Miss Harper. Which one of you will assist me?" she said, expecting immediate attention. However, none of the officers looked at her or even acknowledged her presence. She cleared her throat loudly. "I am the housekeeper of the powerful Harper family. How can you ignore me like this?" she eximed.


    Just then, an officer walked in carrying a stack of documents, brushing past her without apology to hand them to a colleague. "Captain, here''s the interrogation report. Jay is still not revealing who his boss is," he said.


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    Rosie had just finished calling herwyer and was sitting in the interrogation


    room, projecting arrogance as she said to two officers nearby, "I won''t speak until mywyer is here."


    The officers were unsure how to proceed.


    Within thirty minutes, awyer named Bruno Green, apanied by Ernst, arrived at the station.


    Ernst looked serious and was upset about the treatment his sister was receiving. He fixed a stern gaze on the police officers, particrly on the director, Mayson Gomez, a middle-aged man in a white shirt. "This is uneptable. You''ve brought my sister here in her pajamas. This can''t be right!" he said in anger.


    Mayson managed a strained smile. "Mr. Harper, this was a mistake made by my team. I will address it immediately," he said.


    Rachael, carrying a handbag, scoffed and shot a scathing look at the officers who had ignored her earlier. "They


    should all be fired!" she eximed.


    "Where is my sister?" Ernst asked urgently, concerned Rosie might be harshly treated.


    Mayson felt powerless in this situation. The Harper Group was a key yer in Shirie''s development, funding numerous municipal projects and holding considerable sway in many industries. Even the mayor couldn''t afford to disregard their influence.


    Leading the way, Mayson said, "Please, follow me."


    Ernst walked with Bruno and Rachael trailing behind. Rachael deliberately slowed her pace, lowering her voice as she said to the three officers, "I warned you-the Harper family isn''t the kind of people you can afford to


    cross."


    By the evening, before sunset, Ernst brought Rosie back home. Rachael apanied them. Ernst hade back specifically to argue for justice, insisting Rosie should be allowed to return.


    Dinner was underway at home, the table filled with Brenna''s favorite dishes.


    When Shepard saw Ernst bringing Rosie back, he became enraged and put down his fork. "Who gave you permission to bring her back here?" he asked.


    Though Rosie was seething inside at Shepard and Giselle for siding with Brenna, she forced herself to appear sorrowful. "Mom, Dad, if I can''te back home, where else do I have to go? I just made a small mistake. Are you really going to turn your back on me over this?" she said.


    She went as far as shedding tears, putting on a show of genuine sorrow, all while secretly watching the Harper family, hoping to catch a hint of sympathy in their expressions.


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    Ernst took a seat and calmly said, "Mom, Dad, Brenna, Rosie is still young and bound to err. The matter is just a minor issue. Is this really necessary?"


    Disappointment was evident on Shepard''s and Giselle''s faces.


    Shepard said sharply, "A minor issue? Rosie spent arge amount of money to hire criminals to kill Brenna


    How is that minor?"


    ¡°Brenna is fine, isn''t she? She managed to fend off those criminals and left them with broken arms and legs She''s unharmed, so the matter is not as serious as you make it seem. Rosie has already been detained and questioned at the police station all day. That should be punishment enough. Please forgive her now. Losing her parents was hard on her; it''s unfair to treat her harshly like this," Ernst said, feeling that the family was ganging up on Rosie.


    The mood in the dining room became strained. The servants quietly left, giving the Harper family space to talk while they observed from a distance.


    Rosie, feeling wronged, said, "Mom, Dad, I''ll let go of any hard feelings towards Brenna. I acted out because I felt you favored her over me. If you had shown me a bit more love and attention, I wouldn''t have resorted to such drastic measures. I acknowledge my mistake now, and I''m truly sorry. Please forgive me."


    As a man, Shepard didn''t want toe down too hard. Rosie was still his brother''s daughter, and with that came a sense of duty he couldn''t ignore.


    However, Giselle saw things differently. Her expression grew stern as she said, "No, I can''t forgive her. She knew the danger those criminals posed; they could have done something far worse. If Brenna hadn''t been capable of defending herself, imagine what would have happened. Shepard, if you allow her to stay, I''m prepared to leave. Brenna and I will not share a home with her."


    "Mom!" Ernst eximed, confusion written all over his face. "Why are you being like this? Can you honestly stand to leave Rosie out there on her own, with no one to turn to? Didn''t Uncle Carsen make you promise to look after her before he died?"


    Giselle stood firm. "If you feel responsible for Rosie, then you take care of her. My priority is my daughter, who has been terribly wronged," she said.


    Brenna kept her head down and continued to eat quietly, seemingly detached from the conflict.


    Ernst turned to her and said, "Brenna, could you consider forgiving Rosie? If you do, I''ll transfer 0.1% of my shares in the Harper Group to you. The yearly dividends you''ll receive alone are significant."


    Brenna tilted her head slightly, her tone even. "Ernst, I don''t need the money."


    Amid the escting tension, Rosie burst into tears, looking very pitiful. "Please, let''s stop fighting. I''ll leave. I can handle being unloved and neglected. I believe my parents are watching over me from heaven and protecting me," she said.


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    Ernst and Rosie both looked expectantly at Brenna, hoping she would reconsider her stance, but Brenna


    remained silent.


    Ernst''s expression became stern as he said to Brenna, "How can you be so selfish? You''re only considering yourself, not Rosie''s situation. She will be alone out there, without family-it''s truly heart-wrenching What if she meets dangerous people? Will you ept responsibility if anything happens to her?"


    "She''s an adult, and adults are responsible for their own life. What does that have to do with me?" Brenna said, casting him a sideways nce. "If you''re so concerned, why not have her stay with you and take care of her


    yourself?"


    The tension in the room thickened. Servants, positioned along the walls and silently watching, remained motionless, well aware that no one in the Harper family was willing to back down, especially not Brenna, who was not one to be easily swayed:


    Giselle agreed with Brenna. "Exactly. If you''re that concerned, you can take care of her, Ernst," she said.


    Disheartened, Ernst stood, losing his appetite. "Rosie makes one mistake, and it seems none of you can find it in yourselves to forgive her. Isn''t that a bit too harsh?" he said.


    "Get out!" Shepard shouted at Ernst, pointing toward the door in a fit of rage. His son was choosing an outsider over his own sister-had hepletely lost his senses? Did he honestly believe that Rosie hiring thugs to harm Brenna was just a minor issue?


    Shepard eximed in anger, "Don''t evere back!"


    "Fine, I''m leaving," Ernst said, heading for the door.


    Rosie tried to stop him, feigning concern. She said, "Don''t let mee between you and your family. It''s not worth it. I''ll just go back to my ce."


    Ernst, still visibly upset, said, "If they''re going to be this unreasonable, I don''t want to stay here, either. Let''s go!" Shepard''s fury escted. He advanced towards Ernst and kicked him. "Your sister could have been seriously hurt by those thugs, and you think it''s nothing? I can''t believe you''re my son! Leave now!" he shouted.


    Ernst, equally furious, retorted, "She is unharmed, isn''t she? Why are you making such a big deal out of this?"


    He then stormed out without looking back.


    Shepard, overwhelmed with anger, staggered and almost fell.


    "Dad!" Brenna rushed to his side. "Please, calm down. Rosie must have


    influenced him. He''s usually more


    sensible."


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    Giselle, rmed, said to the servants, "Quick, bring his blood pressure pills!"


    The servants moved quickly, and Julia soon arrived with the medication. Shepard took it.


    It took some time before he started to feel better, and his headache slowly eased. Giselle stayed by his side, worried, ready to rush him to the hospital if his condition didn''t improve.


    "Ernst is out of line this time! If he continues like this, he''ll be the one to stroy the Harper Group. How did I end up raising such a son?" Shepard muttered angrily, his face filled with disappointment.


    Giselle exhaled deeply. "I can''t understand what''s gotten into him. Brenna is his true sister, yet he keeps defending Rosie. It''s one thing to feel pity for Rosie being without her parents, but it''s another to excuse her actions after everything she has done. Rosie crossed a line this time. What is he thinking?" she said.


    Both Giselle and Shepard couldn''t help but wonder where they had gone wrong in raising Ernst.


    Brenna sat next to her father, remaining silent. She hardly knew Ernst, feeling he was more like a stranger to her. Recently, she had felt him trying to build a bond with her, and she had been open to it. However, his unwavering support for Rosie today had left her utterly confused.


    Ernst drove away from the Harper family''s house, his expression cold throughout the drive.


    Rosie, sitting beside him, was unable to know what he was thinking.


    She started to cry, her tears fake. She said, "Ernst, I never imagined they would actually kick me out. Now that Brenna''s here, it feels like they don''t see me as their niece anymore. Everything I do seems wrong. But I can''t me them- they''ve cared for me for over twenty years. I should be grateful for them¡ª"


    "That''s enough!" Ernst snapped, clearly annoyed. He saw right through Rosie''s intentions. The only reason he had spoken up for her earlier was that he was worried that if she got thrown out, she would be shut out by the upper circle, making her life harder. It wasn''t that he saw what Rosie had done as a minor issue.


    He yelled in anger, his voice sharp and unforgiving, and Rosie flinched, caught off guard by the sudden


    outburst.


    Ernst continued, "What you did crossed every line. Brenna is my sister by blood. I get it¡ªour parents have been focused on hertely and may have overlooked you, but that doesn''t give you the right to send thugs after Brenna. If it hadn''t been for her friends, things could''ve ended much worse. Rosie, I''m telling you now-don''t evere after Brenna like that again."


    He struggled to understand Rosie''s hatred towards Brenna, who hadn''t wronged her at all. He also couldn''t fathom why Rosie, who had always been kind, had be so obsessed with harming Brenna.


    Rosie bit her lip, shocked by Ernst''s stance on the matter. Had his support earlier been just for show? Tears welled up as she muttered, "If even you don''t care about me anymore, I have no one left..."


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 Chapter 141

    Chapter 141 What A Hypocrite


    Rosie lingered at the entrance of Like Vi, her voice trembling as she said to Ernst, "It doesn''t matter if I''m kicked out of the family." She forced a few tears to fall. "But please don''t hold it against Brenna. I only fear... If I am pushed aside, there''ll be no ce left for me at the Harper Group."


    After a pause, she continued, "Brenna despises me-you know she''ll oppose me at every turn. With Mom and Dad shielding her now, who remains to speak for me?"


    Her shoulders shook with sudden sobs. "What bes of me when she seeks revenge? What if she forces me out of the Harper Group, too?" She lifted her glistening eyes to Ernst. "The Harper Group belongs to our family -Grandpa built it. Doesn''t that mean I am entitled to some portion of its worth?"


    Ernst gave a measured nod. "No one will exile you from the Harper Group. Remember, while Dad holds the majority of the shares, Grandpa''s influence still carries weight," he said.


    Rosie''s tearful facade faltered momentarily. ¡°But Dad controls seventy percent of the shares," she countered, her voice sharpening before softening again. "Doesn''t that render Grandpa''s rolergely symbolic now?"


    Ernst fixed Rosie with a steady, prating look, making her shift ufortably under his gaze.


    "Why are you looking at me like that? Do you think I''m wrong?" Rosie asked, her voice quivering slightly under the weight of his attention.


    Ernst let out a measured breath before responding, "This isn''t the time for such discussion. Rather than obsessing over Brenna, you should channel your energy into managing yourpanies-that''s where your focus should lie." His tone carried both admonishment and weary patience.


    Rosie nodded obediently, hershes fluttering. "You''re right. Could you... speak to Mom and Dad for me?" she


    said.


    Her voice quavered with practiced vulnerability. "I miss them terribly. I''ve been treating them like my real parents since childhood. It breaks my heart knowing I''ve disappointed them." She pressed a hand to her chest. "I realize now how wrong I was to target Brenna. I promise it won''t happen again-please ask them to forgive


    me."


    Seeing the vulnerability in her eyes, Ernst couldn''t bring himself to scold Rosie any further, though he still struggled to understand her actions. "Rosie, can you tell me why you did that to Brenna?" he asked.


    Rosie''s lips trembled as she hesitated, her voice barely audible. "Our family has a marriage agreement with the Mitchell family, right? Audrey never wanted Ethan, and I... I always assumed I would be the one to marry Ethan. But when Brenna returned to the family, everything changed. Ethan started treating her differently, and then, he proposed to her..."


    Ernst''s gaze softened as realization dawned on him.


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    "The world isn''tcking for good men," he said firmly, his words a gentle reassurance. "Someone of your caliber will find a far better match."


    He knew all too well that matters of the heart couldn''t be forced he couldn''t make Ethan like Rosie.


    Tears streaked Posie''s face, her features twisted in anguish. Yet beneath the surface, a bitter resentment simmered she knew deep down that Ernst would never support her in this matter. After all, he and Brenna were siblings. She was just a cousin to Ernst, unable topare to Brenha. Ernst''s apparent care for her had always felt superficial.


    Lowering her head, Rosie hid the venom in her gaze.


    "I have a good friend, the heir of the Russell family," Ernst said, his voice warm.


    "He just ended things with his girlfriend. I''ll introduce you two sometime."


    His hand briefly rested on Rosie''s shoulder. "If you ever need anything, don''t hesitate to call me."


    With that, he stepped into his car and drove away.


    The moment Ernst left, Rosie''s face twisted in frustration. "You say you care, but you won''t lift a finger to help me when it truly matters. What a hypocrite," she muttered bitterly, the words dripping with contempt.


    Standing nearby, Rachael looked at Rosie, her heart aching for her. Unable to stay silent, she spoke up. "Miss Harper, despite everything, Mr. Harper is still useful to you. Don''t strain your rtionship so easily."


    Rosie wiped away thest of her tears, her demeanor hardening. She said, "I know. I''m hungry now. Make me something to eat."


    Over the years, Rachael had proven herself to be the one who truly understood her needs and had always ced them above everything else. Though she had grown used to this loyalty, she couldn''t quite understand


    the reasons behind it.


    Seeing the storm cloud hanging over Rosie''s face, Rachael instantly understood that she was still brooding over the Harper family''s coldness toward her. With a quiet sigh, Rachael tried to offer somefort, her voice soothing but practical. "Let it go, Miss Harper. If things don''t work out here, you could always try to win over your grandfather. There''s always someone in the family who cares about you."


    After a pause, she continued, "Why don''t you vent in your group chat? Share your side of things, talk about how Brenna has been treating you badly, and maybe they''ll stand up for you. You just need to let them know what''s been going on."


    Rosie''s house was a spacious 200-square-meter apartment that had stood vacant for years.


    Rosie rarely stayed here before. She copsed onto the couch, her fingers swiftly moving across the phone''s screen as she recounted her humiliating expulsion to Sylvie and Vivian, seeking their advice.


    The crisp autumn air carried a newfound tranquility as the season''s golden hues settled over the city. Without Rosie at home to stir up trouble and because Ernst hadn''t been back for days, Brenna was finally enjoying some


    peace.


    The much-anticipated Monday arrived when the Harper Group would unveil the winners of its prestigious automotive designpetition.


    Headquarters buzzed with creative energy as they weed all seven hundred participating designers-from


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    promising neers to celebrated industry veterans.


    Today was Brenna''s first time stepping into the Harper Group building, her observant gaze noting several established designers nked by their assistants. Then, a sharp, mocking voice cut through the air. "Looks like just about anyone can enter the Harper Group''s automotive designpetition these days!" Brenna turned to catch Isabe''s sneering profile. She hadn''t seen Isabe for so long and had almost forgotten.


    about her


    She arched an eyebrow in quiet amusement. Had the Barrett family not gone bankrupt yet?


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    Chapter 142 Confident


    Today, Isabe chose a bold ck suit dress that hugged her curves perfectly. Her striking figure turned tests, drawing the attention of every man who passed by


    Brenna''s eyes narrowed as she observed Isabe. She recalled that at thest wee batque, biels


    figure had been rather modest in terms of her chest.


    Could it be that Isabe had gotten imnts on her chest after the banquet?


    A yful grin tugged at Brenna''s lips as she noticed Isabe''s now noticeablyrger chest.


    In no time at all, Isabe had stolen the spotlight, her figure drawing admiring nces from men and entous


    stares from women.


    Isabe flourished under the spotlight, soaking in the attention.


    Brenna took another look. Isabe''s makeup was impable, and her neck was adorned with a ne that screamed luxury, likely worth a fortune. Given the Barrett family''s rumored financial troubles due to the Harper family''s suppression, Br¨¦nna wondered how they managed such extravagance forbe.


    Lately overwhelmed with her own matters, Brenna hadn''t kept track of the Barrett family''s financial troubles She made a mental note to look into their current situationter.


    Noticing Brenna''s gaze, Isabe instinctively crossed her arms over her chest. Her voice was a mix of difort and anger as she asked, "What are you staring at? You haven''t seen such a perfect figure before?*


    However, Brenna''s eyes revealed a hint of admiration that didn''t escape Isabe''s notice. In response, Isabe tilted her head proudly and let out a dismissive scoff. The envy among the women was undeniable, making her pleased with herself.


    She could still recall the embarrassing incident herck of curves had been highlighted at the banquetst time. Determined never to feel that humiliation again, she had sought the most dramatic enhancement the very next


    day.


    Brenna moved closer to Isabe, her voice calm yet cutting. "You''ve had some enhancements, haven''t you?"


    Isabe immediately understood that Brenna was mocking her by asking her that.


    A mix of displeasure and embarrassment bubbled up within Isabe as she replied, her tone defensive, "You are talking nonsense!"


    Her gaze drifted to Brenna''s attire-a sophisticated deep blue sleeveless top draped elegantly over her, paired with a shimmering gold ne that hugged her smooth neck. The pendant looked vaguely familiar to Isabe, though she couldn''t quite ce where she had seen it from. Brenna''s outfit was finished off with a pair of sharp, perfectly tailored trousers, and her wrist was adorned with a delicate bracelet featuring a teardrop pendant, whichplemented her poised demeanor.


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    Although Brenna''s outfit had no visiblebels, it exuded a quiet elegance that made Isabe''s branded dothes seem less impressive.


    Isabe''s eyes narrowed as she observed Brenna with aplex mix of disdain and admiration. She inwardry dismissed the value of Brenna''s clothes yet acknowledged their aesthetic appeal.


    Isabe let out a mockingugh and taunted, "Is the Harper family going bankrupt? Can''t even manage to buy


    branded clothes anymore?"


    Brenna replied with a confident smirk, fully aware of her distinctive fashion choice. What Isabe didn''t know was that her outfit was a one-of-a-kind creation by Ellie for the M&G brand, made from rare materials and featuring an exclusive design.


    "Oh, you don''t know what brand of clothes I am wearing then?" Casually, Brenna showcased her wrist, her voice cool and collected. "These pieces are custom- made by M&G-truly one-of-a-kind."


    She gestured towards her pendant, adding, "See? It''s M&G."


    Isabe scoffed in disbelief, "M&G? That sounds like a generic brand you''d find at a street market."


    Unfazed, Brenna said, "It appears you''re just unfamiliar with true quality."


    Isabe''s expression hardened. "How dare you say something like that? Look at yourself, unting no-name clothes while acting all high and mighty. Just because you''re form the Harper family, you think you''re better than me? I heard you entered.the design contest as well. Do you even recognize your own abilities? You produce nothing but average designs for the Barrett family. How could you darepete in such a high-profile event? Aren''t you worried about bringing shame to the Harper family when your work ranksst?"


    Brenna maintained herposure as she calmly responded, "You think your skills are good? I''m curious how you ended up participating in such a high-levelpetition. Your academic background was hardly remarkable, and your portfolio since you graduated has been uninspiring. Are you here merely to embarrass yourself?" With unwavering confidence, Isabe said, "We''ll see who ends up embarrassed. Don''t waste your time worrying about me. Focus on your own ws. If I were in your shoes, I''d stay home to spare the Harper Group any humiliation."


    Brenna could feel a strong sense of certainty in Isabe''s reply, one that felt more like a statement of confidence than just an insult.


    This puzzled her. Why did Isabe exhibit such confidence?


    "Is that so? You seem really sure that you will get an award in thepetition," Brenna said.


    Isabe raised an eyebrow and answered sharply, "I''m just certain I can do better than you."


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 Chapter 143

    Chapter 143 What Are You


    Gonna Do About It


    Just then, Isabe stered a ttering smile on her face. She looked toward the entrance of the hall and


    hurried to greet someone,


    Brenna wondered who Isabe had seen that sparked such enthusiasm.


    A man in a silver-gray tailored suit walked over. He wasn''t tall. He stood half a head shorter than the second son of the Russell family walking just behind him. His gaze was tantly fixed on Isabe''s chest. If he hadn''t been in public, he might have already reached out to touch her chest.


    Brenna watched the exchange between the man and Isabe and felt a wave of disgust.


    Isabe threw herself into Denis'' arms and said, her voice thick with affection, "Denis, what took you so long? I''ve been waiting forever."


    The way she clung to him left no doubt in anyone''s mind about the nature of their rtionship.


    Despite Denis'' unimpressive appearance, he was the heir to the Wagner family. They were one of the four major families, infamous for using ruthless business tactics that had driven countless smallpanies into


    bankruptcy.


    Isabe, on the other hand, was just the daughter of a moderately wealthy family. She had no real status to unt, yet she acted boldly. She believed she belonged to Denis now. And one day, she might even marry him.


    Because of that possibility, no one dared to mock them publicly.


    Denis slid his arm around her. "Traffic was terrible," he said. "That''s why I''mte."


    Brenna watched the way they interacted, and the pieces fell into ce. No wonder the Barrett family hadn''t copsed under the Harper Group''s pressure. It was probably because they had the Wagner fam supporting


    them.


    Isabe pouted, then pointed at Brenna. "Denis, she''s the one who always bullies me," she said.


    Denis turned to look at Brenna and was momentarily stunned by her beauty. She was far more attractive than the woman clinging to him, outshining her in both appearance and poise.


    His eyes roamed over Brenna without shame.


    Standing beside him, Isabe pressed her chest against him and continued, "Denis, she has bullied me so many times. You should do something about it..."


    Denis had listened to Isabein again and again about how Brenna had bullied her and humiliated her at the wee banquetst time.


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    Since he was still interested in Isabe, he feltpelled to take her side


    Brenna had no desire to deal with either of them. Without a word, she turned to leave.


    "Miss Harper, it''s only been a few days, and you''re even more beautiful than before." Denis stepped in front of her to block her path, his intentions clear.


    Brenna shot him a cold look. She knew exactly what kind of man he wan elite cirdes, he was known as a predator for always chasing after young and naive women. His interest in Isabe wouldn''tst. Once he got bored, he would discard her without a second thought.


    She had no patience for people like him and felt irritated. "I''m not interested in talking to you. Move," she said


    coldly.


    Isabe felt smug. She couldn''t deal with Brenna herself, but Denis? He would surely put Brenna in her ce


    Denis let out a sleazy chuckle. ¡°Oh, the Harper family''s daughter has quite a temper. What, you look down on the Wagner family? You won''t even talk to me?" he said.


    The Wagner and Harper families held equal standing. Both were parts of Shirie''s four major families. On the surface, they kept things cordial. But in fact, they were always fighting for dominance.


    The Harper family believed their cultural roots were far deeper than the Wagner family''s. They also considered their financial strength to be much greater.


    The Wagner family believed the Harperscked true schrly depth and only carried themselves with a hollow sense of refinement.


    "But in terms of hidden power, the Wagners had the upper hand, especially when it came to shady dealings.


    Their operational capabilities far surpassed the Harper family''s in this aspect. Brenna wasn''t the type to ept disrespect or back down without reason. She looked at Denis and gave a faint smile. "You said that. Not me."


    The Wagners were known for their short tempers. Any form of disrespect usually led to immediate retaliation Some of the lesser families near the scene now watched Brenna with sympathy. In their eyes, she had provoked the wrong man.


    Denis snorted and said, "I''ll give you credit for being bold. But you picked on my woman, and that doesn''t sit right with me. I''m giving you a chance to apologize. If you don''t, the Harper family''s designpetition might not go ahead as nned."


    Brenna had already taken a few steps away, but she turned back at the sound of his arrogant tone. "I won''t apologize. She brought it upon herself. What are you gonna do about it?" she said.


    She was ready to throw him out without hesitation.


    Just then, a group of security guards from the Harper family walked over. Since Brenna had never set foot in the building before, they didn''t recognize her. But they knew well enough that the Harper and Wagner families had always been rivals.


    Because of that, they had kept a cautious eye on Denis, waiting for the slightest excuse to toss him out. "You''re pushing your luck." Denis bristled. Few women had ever stood up to him like this.


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    Just then, Brenna struck him.


    The next second, blood streamed from Denis'' nose.


    He eximed in anger, "You bitch! Don''t think just because this is the Harper


    Group''s building, I won''ty a


    hand on you! I''ve always found you irritating!"


    However, Brenna was unfazed. Shended a swift kick to his side.

 Chapter 144

    Chapter 144 This Isn''t Over


    Isabe was utterly shocked. Brenna had struck Denis, causing Isabe to yell, "Brenna, have you lost your mind? Do you realize who he is? How could you hit him like that?"


    She then turned to the security personnel, her voice sharp as she said, "Did you not witness this madwoman attack someone? Kick her out of here immediately!"


    At that moment, Rosie walked into the hall, her gaze sweeping over the scene with calm indifference. She remained silent, observing, as she waited for the guards to kick Brenna out.


    The security guards just stood there, not making a move.


    Brenna shed a sly smirk as she observed the guards doing nothing. Did they recognize her?


    Denisy slumped on the floor, groaning in pain from his back and waist, barely able to get the words out. "She''s ruthless!" he growled.


    Isabe rushed to his side, her face filled with concern. "Can you stand? Should we head to the hospital?" she


    asked.


    As Denis struggled to push himself up, pain shooting through his back, he pointed a trembling finger at Brenna and said, "This isn''t over! The Wagner family isn''t so easy to mess with!"


    Brenna responded coolly, unfazed, "Easy or not, I still did it."


    People around them chuckled in secret. Denis, notorious for his womanizing, appeared to have finally met someone who could teach him a lesson. Some even murmured that they wished he had been knocked out cold.


    Fury overtaking him, Denis made a move towards Brenna.


    Unfazed, Brenna watched him with disdain, poised to dodge and deliver another swift kick.


    But before Denis could reach renna, he was propelled backward by a forceful kick. He soared through the air before crashing down with a resounding thud.


    Onlookers swiftly cleared a path, allowing Denis a dramatic and clearnding. Denis hit the floor hard, gasping, "What the hell... This hurts so much!"


    Denis remained still on the floor, causing bystanders to specte whether he was seriously injured.


    "He got what wasing to him!"


    "Finally, someone put him in his ce!"


    "It was about time!"


    Isabe, rooted to the spot, was overwhelmed by the turn of events. She hadn''t foreseen such an esction Regret flooded through her. She had hoped for Denis to stand up to her, but he ended up getting hurt. She now


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    thought Denis was a bit useless.


    With a sense of unease, she approached Denis to assess his condition, not seeing who had just kicked Denis.


    Brenna''s eyes turned to the person who had kicked Denis. It was Ethan, looking as impable as ever, standing alongside top engineers from the Mitchell Group''s automotive division.


    Ethan withdrew his foot and walked toward Brenna, his face showing genuine concern. "Are you hurt?" he


    asked.


    The engineers from Mitchell Group watched the scene in disbelief. Their typically cold boss, Mr. Mitchell, had shown an unexpected tenderness toward a woman. Everyone watched in stunned silence as Ethan looked at


    Brenna with a soft gaze.


    "I''m okay," Brenna responded softly. She and Ethan moved past Denis together, her voice firm. "Take him out


    of here!"


    The security guards paused, thrown off by Brenna''smanding tone.


    Ethan said to them, "This is Brenna Harper, recently recognized as Mr. Harper''s biological daughter. She''s being harassed on your premises. Shouldn''t you be escorting the man harassing her off the property now?"


    "Right away, Mr. Mitchell!" the guards responded immediately.


    Fuming with anger, Denis said to the guards, "Don''t you dare kick me out! The Wagner Group is apetitor here, too. Why am I the one being thrown out?"


    The guards were determined in their action. The chief guard replied, "It''s the designers from Wagner Group in the contest, not you personally. Why can''t we throw you out?"


    They proceeded to drag Denis out by his ankles, roughly dumping him down the steps outside.


    Denis had never before experienced such humiliation.


    "You''ll regret this, Brenna! This isn''t over!" he muttered under his breath.


    From her position, Rosie observed the scene with a touch of envy. Brenna had sessfully kicked Denis out.


    She also believed Denis had proved himself useless, unable to stand up to a woman. She had secretly wished for Denis to turn the tables on Brenna, but instead, she was witness to his total humiliation.


    Isabe looked at Denis, lying at the base of the stairs, not wanting to help him. However, fearing his anger and the possible consequences for the Barrett family, she pushed past her difort with the stares of those around her and reached out to offer assistance to Denis.


    Rosie gave Denis one final nce as hey helpless at the bottom of the steps and then turned to follow Ethan into the elevator.


    The crowd near the elevator stepped aside as Ethan entered the elevator. Since Ethan was inside, they all opted to wait for the next round.


    With a light smile, Rosie said, "Ethan."


    Positioning herself on Ethan''s side, she asked cautiously, "With so many talented designers from around the globe here, who do you think will win the top spot this time?"


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    Ethan replied in a raim, detached manner, "Have you reveared any of the design proposta


    His tone was noticeshly colder than when he had been talking to Brenna Rose partly and is, I haven''t reviewed them 1 was simply interested in hearing your thought on the contenders.

 Chapter 145

    Chapter 145 Causing


    Trouble For Her


    Brenna''s phone buzzed with a string of messages from the studio manager. She lowered her head, typing out replies with practiced speed, seemingly oblivious to the fact that Rosie was talking to Ethan.


    In reality, Brenna was keenly aware of everything going on. She knew what Rosie was up to. It was clear that Rosie had probably been eyeing Ethan long before she had even stepped back into the Harper family''s world. And if her instincts were anything to go by, there would be some drama soon.


    Ethan kept his face unreadable as he stared straight ahead, pointedly ignoring Rosie.


    Rosie felt a twinge of embarrassment after her previous question. Ethan''s blunt reply had hit her like a p,nding right where it hurt most.


    She forced a smile and said, "No, how could I have seen the design drafts? Ethan, I just wanted to ask which designer you think has the best chance of winning."


    Ethan nced briefly at Brenna, who was still glued to her phone, her fingers swiftly tapping across the screen, clearly too upied to notice his conversation with Rosie.


    "No matter what, the winner won''t be you," Ethan responded, his tone unhurried.


    Rosie''s smile faltered, her cheeks tinged with embarrassment. Ever since Brenna''s return, Ethan''s attitude toward her had turned cold,cking even the faintest trace of kindness.


    This was all because of Brenna!


    Rosie couldn''t hide the resentment building inside her as she watched Brenna, certain that she was only pretending to be busy while hiding her nerves. Rosie smirked to herself, thinking that if Brenna didn''t make it into the top three or failed to win an excellence award, it would show she wasn''t good enough. Maybe then Ethan would finally realize that Brenna didn''t deserve him.


    With a light, almost mockingugh, Rosie said to Brenna, "Brenna, you graduated in mechanical engineering and have been designing with the Barrett family for years, winning countless international awards. You must be brimming with confidence for thispetition, right? Maybe you will even take first ce. Do you have anything you would like to say?"


    Rosie looked at Brenna coldly, intentionally showering her with exaggerated


    praise, hoping she would be overconfident and make it obvious to everyone that she believed she would win first ce.


    Just then, the elevator doors slid open, arriving on the 33rd floor of the Harper Group''s massive auditorium¡ªan exclusive venue that saw little use except for thepany''s annual employee meetings.


    The space was enormous, capable of holding about three thousand people.


    Outside, a red-carpeted event hall stretched out, surrounded by various promotional banners and materials. The Harper Group''s employees


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    Chapter 145 Causing Trouble For Her


    efficiently guided the participating designers into the auditorium.


    With a bit of time left before the announcement, many designers milled around outside, discussing who might walk away with the coveted first-ce prize.


    As soon as the elevator doors opened, Rosie crossed to the other side, linking her arm warmly with Brenna''s. She raised her voice and said, "Brenna, with your talent, winning first prize should be easy. You are from the


    Harper family, a mechanical design major, and have won numerous international awards. The judges clearly admire your skills. I have high hopes for you."


    Rosie maintained a charming, graceful smile as she spoke, warmly greeting the people milling about the hall.


    Still preupied with messages and juggling multiple tasks, Brenna was nevertheless keenly aware of Rosie''s deliberate choice of words. She could sense that Rosie was trying to stir up trouble for her.


    Despite their usual rivalry, Rosie was now being unusually friendly to her. If Brenna pulled away from her, it would make her seem difficult to get along with.


    Rosie was certainly ying her cards right this time.


    Brenna nced around, her sharp gaze catching the unfriendly stares from the crowd. Some eyes even glinted with open hostility.


    A casually dressed designer in his thirties voiced his frustration loudly, saying, "Why are we still waiting here for the results? She is the Harper family''s daughter. Maybe they decided the winner a long time ago!"


    Rosie''s expression darkened when she heard this. She turned sternly toward the designer and demanded, "What''s your name? Which design firm are you representing? And what gives you the right to say that?"


    The designer held up his badge to Rosie and replied, "I''m Zeke Webster from Horizon Design. What do you mean by saying those things earlier? Were the top three prizes already decided before thepetition even started? If the winners have already been decided, why bother inviting the rest of us? Are you just ying with


    us?"


    Rosie stayedposed, unaffected by his sharp words or the growing attention from the other designers. Her voice remained steady and clear as she replied, "That''s not what I meant. I was simply pointing out that Brenna is from the Harper family."


    Rosie gently nudged Brenna forward, putting her in the spotlight. She beamed, praising Brenna loudly enough for everyone to hear. "Brenna is incredibly talented. She has won numerous prestigious international design awards. I truly believe she has what it takes to win the first prize-not because it has already been decided, but because she is capable. Do you understand?" she said.


    Rosie felt a secret sense of satisfaction, certain that Brenna was about to face bacsh from her peers. If Brenna didn''t even secure an excellence award, the moment the results were announced, she would be hit with a wave of scorn and criticism.


    Rosie then looked at Zeke and asked arrogantly, "Have you ever won an international award? Do you even have what it takes topete for first prize here?"


    "She dropped out of school when she was young. How could she possibly win anything on the international stage?" Just then, Isabe''s voice suddenly rang out as she stepped out of the elevator. She made sure her words were loud enough for everyone to hear.


    17:17


    She had finally found the perfect chance to humiliate Brenna and felt a surge of satisfaction


    Rmended for you


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 Chapter 146

    Chapter 146 Don''t Fall For


    His Lies


    The murmurs and skeptical nces in the hall did not escape Brenna''s notice.


    "Who would have thought? She is beautiful, but shecks substance."


    "So what? She''s the daughter of the Harper family. Maybe this wholepetition was designed for her, and the rest of us are just here to make up the numbers."


    "She is beautiful andes from a rich family. Who are we to judge how the Harper family treats their daughter?"


    "Does wealth really make someone better than the rest?"


    These disparagingments reached Brenna''s ears, but she remained unfazed. ustomed to skepticism for over twenty years, she had learned to let her aplishments speak for themselves.


    While many harbored doubts about Brenna, their criticisms were whispered, never voiced openly. After all, they were all here topete. Even if the Harper family had tailored thepetition for their daughter, letting her win first prize. Winning second, third, or even the excellence awards was still a significant achievement.


    Contrary to Isabe''s expectations, no one openly stood up for justice.


    Before long, a representative from the Night Studio walked over to the scene. Tommy McCoy, the team leader usually in charge of studio affairs, swept his eyes across the room with a steady gaze. He noticed right away that people had gotten the wrong idea about Brenna.


    Looking at the crowd, he raised his voice and said, "Let me clear something up before this goes any further. We''re with the Night Studio. It sounds like some of you have the facts all wrong. I''m Tommy McCoy, and I know Miss Harper holds two degrees from a top university in Norview. Right after graduating seven years ago, she earned the Golden Wrench Award in a prestigious designpetition. Then, six years ago, she took home the top prize again in a globalpetition. There are plenty more awards under her belt, but I won''t list every


    one of them."


    After a pause, he continued, "The point is, Miss Harper is not someone who didn''t even finish elementary


    school."


    Isabe scoffed loudly, visibly irritated. She continued exposing Brenna''s past. "Don''t fall for his lies. I''m Isabe, the daughter of the Barrett family. Everyone''s well aware that Brenna was only acknowledged by the Harper family not too long ago. The people who raised her are my parents, and they made it clear to me that she never even finished elementary school. There''s no way she graduated from any top university. Don''t let yourselves be deceived."


    Her confident manner lent her usations a semnce of credibility.


    17:17


    Scanning the audience, she continued loudly, "And this Night Studio, who even knows them? They might just be here to cause a scene. I''ve never heard of them before. They could be paid off by Brenna for all we know. Don''t let yourselves be easily fooled. We have to push back against the Harper Group ruining the fairness of the


    Zeke, supporting Isabe, eximed, "Exactly, we shoulde together and protest. Thepetition rules say it must be fair. Why should the Harper family''s daughter be presumed the winner?"


    What he said struck a nerve with a few designers who were aiming for the top prize, and soon enough, several voices rang out in agreement, saying, "Exactly!"


    "I strongly oppose the Harper family''s daughter participating in thepetition!" Ethan surveyed the room calmly before saying slowly, "There''s no need for concern. Thispetition is indeed fair. The Harper Group has even brought in notaries to verify everything. Besides, there''s one first prize, three second prizes, ten third prizes, and thirty excellence awards. The shortlist includes three times as many participants as there are winners. Winners are determined by the judges'' scores and votes from the designers present here. Additionally, the works are identified only by numbers, not names. The judges and designers doing the scoring here can only evaluate the submissions without knowing who made them."


    After a pause, he continued to exin, "That makes the processpletely fair. There''s no room for backdoor deals or oues that were decided in advance."


    Still upset, Zeke asked, "And who might you be? How are you so familiar with the selection process? Are you part of the Harper family?"


    Ethan gave him a patient smile, assessing the man who seemed more bluster than substance.


    He then said, "I''m here as one of the judges. I was invited to participate in the evaluation process."


    Rosie, who had been quietly observing themotion, was surprised to learn of Ethan''s role as a judge. Isabe, visibly annoyed, retorted, "That''s easy for you to say. But how do we know you haven''t been briefed on Brenna''s number beforehand? All the judges are invited by the Harper Group. It would be easy for them to manipte the results behind the scenes. The Harper Group has money to burn, so what''s stopping them from slipping a bribe to the judges if they want to?"


    Brenna, acutely aware of Isabe''s motives, knew that the Harper family''s previous actions had nearly driven the Barrett Group to bankruptcy. It was only after Isabe allied with the Wagner family that her family''s fortunes were restored. Clearly, the Barrett family would take any opportunity to retaliate against the Harper


    family.


    "So what? My family''s power is just another aspect of my strength. Are you bothered by that?" Brenna said coldly to Isabe. "If you believe thepetition is rigged, feel free to withdraw. With numerous second, third, and excellence awards avable, even if I win the first prize, there''s plenty of opportunity for you to im an award and coborate with the Harper Group."

 Chapter 147

    Chapter 147 I''ll''Sue You For Defamation


    Isabe watched Brenna''s arrogant behavior, but rather than feeling angry, she believed Brenna was digging her own grave. Brenna might be the Harper family''s daughter, someone ordinary people couldn''t easily approach, but her prideful words and arrogant demeanor were bound to spark widespread resentment.


    "Did you all see that? Did everyone notice just how stuck-up the Harper family''s precious daughter is? We can''t let her have things her way! When ites time to review the shortlisted entries, let''s make sure we vote honestly and choose someone genuinely deserving, No matter what kind of sweet deals anyone might offer us, we must refuse. Let''s see how the Harper Group tries to rig this!"


    Isabe''s words rang out clearly, charged with righteous anger. "I refuse to believe there''s no fairness left in


    this world!"


    "That''s right!"


    "Exactly!"


    "Justice must prevail!"


    "Uphold fairness, reject bribery!"


    Brenna watched the crowd''s fury build, her lips curling into a smirk. She had no intention of defending herself. Soon, her talents would speak for themselves, silencing all those who doubted her.


    Isabe couldn''t suppress a smile of satisfaction as her n took shape, She looked at Rosie, eager to see what her next move would be. She had done what she needed to do ording to the agreement.


    Brenna saw the subtle exchange between Isabe and Rosie. It was discreet, but it did not escape her notice. Rosie said, "Ethan, you don''t have to worry. A lot of people might question Brenna, but I don''t think she would go so far as to fake her academic credentials or buy meaningless awards. I trust she has some talent. And even if she did fake her credentials or buy her awards, it wouldn''t matter. With the Harper Group behind her and her future marriage to you, she could just be a trophy wife. It''s not like either the Harper or Mitchell families need the money she earns."


    Tommy and two other designers from the Night Studio, who had been within earshot, were visibly angered by Rosie''s words.


    Rosie had spoken loudly enough for people nearby to hear her, clearly attempting to tarnish Brenna''s reputation in front of others.


    Tommy couldn''t hold back his anger. "Miss Harper, do you have any evidence to back up your ims? If you can''t prove Brenna faked her credentials or bought her awards, we are prepared to sue you for defamation."


    17:17


    Rosie sneered and rolled her eyes. "And who are you supposed to be? I''m simply stating the truth. Miss Barrett knows all about Brenna''s background. As part of Brenna''s family, I must ensure everyone knows the facts. Otherwise, when the award listes out, and she is not even shortlisted, won''t that be embarrassing? A master''s graduate from a top-tier university failing to even get shortlisted? That would be humiliating."


    She feigned a smile, her sarcasm evident as she said to Brenna, ¡°Right, Brenna?¡±


    Brenna decided it was time to strike back. She said, "You are absolutely right. But if an outsider with a finance degree and zero background in engineering design suddenly makes the shortlist, wouldn''t that be suspicious? What would that suggest? Could it mean the person bought the work to participate in thepetition?"


    Rosie''s heart skipped a beat. A flicker of unease crept in. Could Brenna know that she had bought her work? No, that was impossible. She had been meticulous, using someone else''s bank card to make the transactions. No one would know she had done that.


    Brenna had to be bluffing. She refused to take the bait.


    Rosie replied, "That''s not true. I am naturally gifted and have always been top of my ss. Picking up a bit of engineering design is a walk in the park for me."


    The industry talents present looked unimpressed after hearing that, shooting skeptical nces in Rosie''s


    direction.


    Among the crowd, a few smart individuals began to piece things together. Despite their outward show of unity, it was clear that Brenna and Rosie didn''t get along very well.


    Tommy smiled and said, "Miss Harper, no matter how talented you im to be, you can''t master what we have spent seven years learning in just a month. You certainly can''t create a legitimate design by skimming a few textbooks. If someone from outside the field makes the shortlist, there''s only one logical exnation-the design was never theirs to begin with."


    His blunt words made Rosie''s face flush with anger.


    Rosie snapped at Tommy, her tone sharp and defensive, "Do you have any proof


    for that usation? Watch your words, or I''ll sue you for defamation. I am the Harper family''s daughter, and I have the power to hire the


    bestwyer!"


    Her threat was crystal clear.


    After a pause, she continued, "An unknown studio dares toe here? Since when did the Harper Group start letting such an insignificant studio in?"


    Zeke stepped forward and kindly informed Rosie, "Miss Harper, the Night Studio is far from unknown. It''s a highly respected international design team with a solid reputation in the industry. They are just very low-profile, which is why not many people are familiar with them."


    Rosie shot Zeke a fierce re, clearly irritated by his interference.


    Just moments ago, he had been vocally against the Harper Group''s rigging of the first prize, and now, he was contradicting her. Whose side was he really on?


    Tommy smiled as he shook Zeke''s hand, convinced that Zeke had just misjudged Brenna earlier. Once he got to know her better, he would no longer question her abilities.

 Chapter 148

    Chapter 148 Voting


    Ethan gave Brenna an approving look Over the past few days, he had found out that she owned two studios- one specializing in finance, the other in mechanical design. Both were filled with top-tier talent.


    He noticed Tommy along with two other male engineers, all in their thirties and carrying themselves with quiet confidence. He acknowledged them with a nod


    Since the jury had a separate entrance, Ethan leaned in and whispered to Brenna, TII head over first."


    Brenna just nodded, her expression indifferent.


    Now that Ethan was gone, Rosie felt pleased. She no longer needed to y nice in front of Brenna and could speak without holding back.


    Rosie and Brenna moved with the crowd into the venue, keeping in step without speaking Rosie had let go of Brenna''s arm. They now walked side by side, both wearing unreadable expressions. To anyone watching, they looked perfectly civil.


    Brenna sensed Rosie''s thought. She turned to Rosie casually and sneered, "Not pretending to be close to me anymore?


    "Weren''t you pretending earlier, too?" Rosie shot back. "You think you are so capable, huh? You managed to kick me out of the Harper family. Yet today, with so many people questioning you, you said nothing. That''s not like you. Are youcking confidence in your work?"


    "Seems like you''re feeling pretty confident," said Brenna, blunt as ever. She could see how sure Rosie was of herself. To be honest, it wasn''t surprising With everything at stake, she knew Rosie was bound to scheme something


    "Brenna, our seats are over here," Tommy said.


    Without another word, Brenna followed Tommy to the right, not bothering to say goodbye to Rosie.


    Rosie snorted. She had registered under her own name, which meant she wasn''t part of a team and didn''t have an assigned seat. So, she picked a good seat with a clear view of Brenna.


    Engineers gradually began taking their seats. Guests invited by the Harper Group, along with representatives frompanies hoping to recruit engineers, started arriving as well.


    On stage sat nine judges. Besides Ethan, the others were respected experts and professors in automotive design and mechanical engineering, A few were even nationally recognized authorities in their fields.


    Behind them was a massive electronic screen.


    To make sure everyone could see the award-winning designs clearly, several screens had been ced throughout the venue.


    At the moment, the main screen disyed the list of finalists. Only names were shown, with no entry numbers,


    17:17


    Chapter 148 Voting


    to prevent any chance of cheating


    The list was arranged alphabetically by surname Brenna quickly spotted her name, and right below it, she saw


    Rosie''s


    Brenna wasn''t surprised, but Rosie was. In fact, she almost shouted in disbelief. Her eyes stayed fized on Brenna''s name for a long time, she had bribed a manager from thepetitionmittee to rece Brenna''s work with a bad design with no chance of qualifying. Yet here Brenna wassisted among the finalists.


    Rosie grew uneasy, unable to stay still in her seat.


    Even though the design she had purchased had also made it to the finals, she couldn''t shake the feeling that something was off.


    She couldn''t figure out why, but the feeling lingered.


    The announcement of the finalists sparked discussions throughout the venue.


    There were ninerge electronic screens-one showed the names of all


    132 finalists, while the others rotated through the submitted designs along with entry numbers.


    This setup allowed everyone to see who had made it through without revealing which designs belonged to whom. It prevented private lobbying or interference behind the scenes,


    The venue gradually quieted down as everyone turned their attention to the screens and studied the designs on disy. Brenna scanned them as well and quickly spotted her own work and the design her studio had sold.


    The finalpetition was about to begin.


    The process was straightforward. Each design would be reviewed and scored in numerical order.


    Every seat was equipped with two buttons-green for support, red for opposition. Themittee would rank the designs based on the number of green votes received.


    Vote counts were made public. After the voting window closed for each design, the total number of votes would appear on thergest screen behind the judges. There were 132 entries in total. Each one had a two-minute window for voting. The wait felt long and unbearable. But finally, the moment came for the design Rosie had purchased.


    As it appeared on the screen, a wave of admiration swept through the crowd. Praise echoed from every


    direction.


    Rosie felt a rush of triumph. She had received 1, 327 votes, which put her in the lead.


    Her shares in the Harper Group were now secured, and the millions she had spent were finally paying off. As long as she ranked ahead of Brenna, she would win in her bet with Brenna.


    She stole a nce at Brenna, who was calmly chatting with Tommy, her expression unreadable.


    So what if Brenna made it to the finals? She was still behind.


    More designs shed across the screens. The vote count climbed steadily. Soon, 130 designs were shown.


    However, Rosie still hadn''t seen the design she had switched out for Brenna''s.

 Chapter 149

    Chapter 149 Give Me What Is Rightfully Mine-


    The rankings shed across the electronic screen, and as expected, Rosie''s work imed the top spot. Though only the entry number was disyed, Rosie knew which one was hers, and a smug smile spread across her face. Feeling


    triumphant, she quickly sent a message to Brenna.


    "The top spot is mine. Get ready to lose all the Harper family''s resources."


    Brenna nced at her phone, her fingers tapping out a response quickly.


    "Don''t be so sure. The real show is just about to unfold."


    Rosie barely gave the reply a second thought. Victory was within her grasp. The first-ce prize would secure her the coveted shares and privileges within the Harper family and a hefty bonus from the Harper Group.


    As far as she was concerned, Brenna was about to lose everything now.


    Just then, a staff member announced, "We will now begin the public disy of entries. The winning entries will be shown in a small setting. Any objections can be raised at this time."


    "I use the first-ce winner of giarism!" Tommy suddenly stood up and shouted toward the judges'' table.


    Even without a microphone, Tommy''s voice boomed. His seat was close enough for all nine judges and the


    crowd to hear him.


    The staff quickly disyed the first-ce entry number and the work on every electronic screen in the room.


    Everyone''s eyes were locked on the screen, the room humming with murmurs. Tommy walked up to the judges'' table and handed them hisptop.


    Grabbing the microphone, he said, "Good afternoon, everyone. I''m Tommy McCoy, head of the Night Studio. The first-ce work on disy is actually a design created by our studio''s lead engineer, who won the prestigious Golden Wrench Award at an international engineeringpetition in Norview four years ago. The design ranking first is clearly our studio''s engineer''s work in thatpetition."


    A collective gasp rippled through the crowd, disbelief registering on every face.


    Rosie was the most stunned of all. She immediately shouted, ¡°Impossible! This is my..."


    She couldn''t finish her sentence. It suddenly dawned on her that she had walked straight into Brenna''s trap.


    She immediately recognized the second-ce entry number. It was Brenna''s.


    If she were disqualified now, Brenna would effortlessly step into first ce.


    Rosie was speechless, shooting a resentful re in Brenna''s direction.


    0.0%


    17:17


    Brenna gave Rosie a subtle smile, waved casually, and sent a text to her.


    "I hope you are enjoying the surprise."


    Rosie''s grip on her phone tightened as she read the message. Brenna knew that she had bought the design and had been setting up her downfall from the start.


    How had she not seen thising?


    Just then, another message lit up her screen-a refund notification for the design purchase.


    Meanwhile, on stage, the judges carefully examined the contents of Tommy''sptop and immediately contacted the Golden Wrench Award Global Committee in Norview to verify the im.


    Shortly after, the first-ce entry was officially disqualified.


    After that, the judges moved into the final scoring phase.


    When the names were revealed next to their entry numbers, shock rippled through the crowd. The same people who had ridiculed Brenna and used the Harper Group of bias were now rendered speechless.


    Brenna''s design was impable, earning a score far higher than the second- ce entry.


    The Harper Group executives, though not serving as judges, were present on the stage. Among them were Shepard and Ernst, who recognized both Brenna''s and Rosie''s entry numbers.


    As the situation unfolded, Shepard''s disappointment in Ernst was palpable. He said, "How could you allow thispetition to proceed without detecting the giarism? Or did you deliberately cover for Rosie?"


    Ernst had known that Rosie knew nothing about automotive design and would resort to deception topete.


    "I have nothing to say. I''m willing to step down as CEO of the Harper Group and transfer my shares to Brenna," Ernst said, rising to his feet and leaving, his face cold as ice.


    He couldn''t wrap his mind around how such an obvious case of giarism had gone unnoticed by thepetitionmittee.


    Who was really pulling the strings behind the scenes?


    Was it Brenna?


    That seemed unlikely. She had never set foot in the Harper Group building, wasn''t familiar with its executives, and had no idea who was even responsible for organizing thepetition.


    Moreover, he had been keeping an eye on her, and there was no indication that she had interfered with Harper Group''s matters.


    Was there someone secretly helping Brenna?


    He couldn''t make sense of the matter.


    That evening, the Harper family gathered at the house. Even Rosie, who had


    been kicked out, had to show up. Ableson''s family was also present.


    They all sat on the sofa, eyes fixed on the agreement on the coffee table.


    17:17


    Shepard''s expression was grim as he said, "ording to the terms of the agreement, if Brenna wins, Ernst will willingly give up his shares in the Harper Group, resign from the board, and step down as CEO Rosie will also transfer her shares to Brenna. Everyone in the family is aware of this. Now, it''s time to honor the agreement. Did you two bring the share transfer documents?"


    Ernst quietly ced a stack of signed papers on the coffee table. "I have already signed them," he said.


    Everyone turned to look at Rosie.


    Rosie didn''t bring any documents. Tears welled in her eyes.


    She said, "Isn''t it enough that Brenna has already kicked me out of the house? Now you want to take my shares, too? How am I supposed to survive if I give up my shares? Moreover, my father owned shares in the Harper Group. Although I was just a child when he passed away, those shares should legally belong to me. Give me what is rightfully mine, and I''ll fulfill my part in the agreement."

 Chapter 150

    Chapter 150 I Will Never Forgive You


    As Ernst watched Rosie cry like that, his heart sank with sorrow. The sympathy on his face was impossible to


    miss.


    He turned his gaze toward Brenna, and his eyes quietly expressed disapproval. "Brenna, once you acquire my shares, you''ll be inheriting over a billion dors annually. That''s a fortune for anyone, especially a young woman like you. With that amount, you could lead a life of luxury without ever having to work a day." Brenna responded with a gentle smile, grasping his point before he could get to it. She chose to remain silent, letting him finish.


    Ernst continued, "Think about Rosie''s situation-rejected by everyone. She can''t even call our parents Mom and Dad anymore. Isn''t that just heartbreaking? How can you bear to strip her of everything now? As a member of the Harper family, you can''t be so cruel."


    The room was thick with disapproval as others quietly listened. Ableson, usually so reserved, couldn''t hold back his emotions. He turned to Ernst and said, "How could you still say something like that? It hase to my attention that Brenna had a recent encounter with some thugs. Please correct me if I''m mistaken, but wasn''t it Rosie who arranged for the thugs to harm Brenna?"


    Ableson''s face was serious, carrying the weight of an elder''s authority.


    He said, "Have you considered what might have happened to Brenna if she hadn''t been skilled in fighting? She and her friends would have been powerless against those thugs. Can you imagine the consequences?"


    His tone grew more intense as he said, "Do you understand how serious that is? Your focus seems solely fixated on Rosie. Aren''t you overlooking Brenna''s


    feelings? Honestly, I''m beginning to question whether you truly are your mother''s son. You are nothing like her!"


    Shepard''s gaze hardened as he looked at his son, his expression etched with disappointment. "You may choose to defend Rosie, but I cannot let anyone mistreat my daughter," he said.


    Brenna replied firmly, "She''s just facing the consequences of her own actions. There''s no reason for me to show her any mercy. If I forgave her now, do you think she would ever do the same for me?"


    Ernst, however, remained unaffected by the elder''s words. He acknowledged Rosie''s ws but saw that they were driven by her fear of losing everything, not by any ill intent.


    Losing shares in the Harper family wouldpletely sever her ties to the family.


    As a result, she would lose ess to the privileges that came with being part of the Harper family.


    With a sorrowful look, Ernst reassured Rosie, "Regardless of their indifference, I am here for you. I may no longer be the CEO of the Harper Group, but I still have otherpanies. Together, we''ll be fine."


    0.0%


    12


    17:17


    Chapter 150 I Will Never Forgive You


    Rosie acknowledged him with a nod, then fixed her gaze on Brenna, her eyes zing with resolve. Abruptly, she walked towards Brenna and knelt in front of her.


    She said, "I admit that it was my mistake-I never should have hired thugs to go after you. But your presence in the family left me with no other option, driving me to desperation. Before you returned to the family, I was the only one who was cherished by Mom and Dad. But after you returned, you spent every day defaming me in front of them. Then, one day, I couldn''t tolerate it any longer, so I decided it was time to teach you a lesson."


    As she offered her apology, it was tinged more with her own grievances than remorse. Tears streamed down


    her face.


    She continued, "I''m asking for your forgiveness. I will leave this family for good, giving you the chance to enjoy the love of the others. I won''tpete for their attention anymore. I don''t even have the right to ask for it. My parents are gone, and there''s no one left who cares about me now. I deserve to be lonely!"


    Brenna''s expression grew cold. She was impressed by Rosie''s scheming, twisting the truth to make it seem like


    she had been forced into wrongdoing.


    She said, "Really? So, by your logic, I should have just stayed away from my family? Left to struggle on my own, constantly tormented by the Barrett family, destined to serve them indefinitely? Would that be fair? If I had stayed away, you would have continued to receive my parents'' affection without any interference from me. Is that the oue you desire? My mistake is in returning to the family, right?"


    Tears flowed uncontrobly down Rosie''s face as if she were targeted by everyone in the room. Despite Brenna''s words, she took them in silence, allowing herself to be seen as the victim here, even though Brenna might not have been at fault.


    Both Shepard and Ableson looked furious. Shepard, overwhelmed with anger, held back from speaking, knowing that expressing his thoughts might seem like he was mistreating Rosie. Rosie had already admitted her mistakes, and as a senior in the family, he knew it would be inappropriate for him to keep scolding her.


    It was obvious that Rosie was very cunning; she had put his daughter in danger. But now, she had made it look like she was the victim.


    This was truly outrageous.


    Ableson, with a firm tone, interjected, "Enough of this act. Get on your feet."


    He then gestured to Audrey.


    Audrey moved closer to pull Rosie up.


    "I will remain kneeling until Brenna offers her forgiveness," Rosie stubbornly dered.


    Unable to contain her frustration, Brennashed out at Rosie with a kick. "I will never forgive you! You nned an attack on me with the thugs, yet here I am, unharmed, while Jay and his group, including you, the one who started it, were captured. Without Ernst''s intervention through the Harper Group, you wouldn''t even be out on bail. Listen closely, if you pull such tricks on me again, I won''t bring the police into this. Instead, I''ll have someone do the same to you. If you can handle it, keep targeting me."


    100.0%

 Chapter 151

    Chapter 151 Bing A Shareholder Of The Harp...


    Ernst was livid. He shot to his feet, ignoring everyone around him, and barked at Brenna, "What nonsense are you talking about? If youy a hand on Rosie, don''t me me for getting ruthless!"


    Brenna''s frustration boiled over. "When I was up against those thugs, did you worry about me? Thiago and ! fought off dozens of people together. Did you once care if I made it out alive? Rosie plotted against me, and you let it slide. But now that I''m fighting back, suddenly you''re concerned about the matter? That''s not fair!"


    For a moment, Ernst felt some guilt, but it vanished just as quickly. He said, "Rosie is not like you. She doesn''t know how to fight and can''t defend herself. You''re different. You can take down a group of men without getting hurt. She can''t."


    "Ernst, you make me sick." Shepard pointed toward the door and eximed in anger, "Get out! I can''t believe


    you''re my son."


    Giselle looked at Ernst, her face filled with disappointment. ¡°Brenna is your sister. How can you say something


    like that?"


    Rosie slowly picked herself up from the floor and walked over to Ernst. "Ernst, don''t turn against your family because of me. I''m not worth it. I don''t deserve to be loved..."


    The whole family stared at Rosie with strange expressions. How had they never seen this side of her before? She had made a serious mistake, yet somehow, she acted like she was the victim here.


    Audrey didn''t bother even looking at Rosie. Standing by Brenna''s side, she said to her, "Don''t let her get to you. Someone like her isn''t worth it."


    Rosie turned to Audrey with wounded eyes. ¡°Audrey, Brenna stole your fianc¨¦. Doesn''t that bother you at all?"


    Audrey''s gaze stayed cold. "I have a boyfriend. I never had feelings for Ethan, and I never nned on marrying


    him."


    Rosie was skeptical. She couldn''t believe Audrey had no interest in someone as exceptional as Ethan. Maybe it was just bad timing. Sooner orter, Rosie believed Audrey woulde to see that no man couldpare to


    Ethan and fall for him.


    "We''re leaving!" Ernst snapped. He was done with his family. In his eyes, no one cared that Rosie had lost her parents and that she had no one left to stand up for her now. One mistake, and she was cast aside and stripped of everything.


    Brenna stepped in and blocked Rosie''s path. "You''re not going anywhere. You still haven''t transferred your shares to me. The agreement we signed is legally binding."


    Rosie, who had hoped to slip away quietly, exploded in anger. "I''ve already lost everything. Do you want to


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    17:18


    Chapter 151 Bing A Shareholder Of The Harper Group


    drive me to my death? I''m telling you now I''m not handing over those shares. Let''s see what you can do


    about it!"


    She shoved Brenna with all her strength, but Brenna didn''t even move. "Without handing over the shares, you are not leaving," Brenna said.


    Ernst said through gritted teeth, "If she gives up the shares, she''ll have nothing left! Brenna, don''t be so cruel."


    "When she hired thugs toe after me, she was cruel and didn''t hold back. Why can''t I treat her the same


    way?" Brenna retorted bluntly.


    Ernst and Rosie looked around at the rest of the Harper family, hoping someone would speak up for them. But


    not a single person did.


    Rosie took in the scene and seared it into memory. The Harper family was heartless. One day, she would make sure the Harper Group crumbled..


    With no other choice, Rosie made a phone call. Not long after, Rachael arrived, carrying a stack of documents.


    Rosie quickly signed her name to transfer her shares, then stormed out without looking back.


    "Unbelievable!" Shepard red at Rosie''s retreating figure. "I cared for that girl all these years, only for her to


    be like this!"


    Ableson nodded. "She really is a disappointment. I never imagined she''d stoop so low and try to create tension between Audrey and Brenna over Ethan."


    He then turned to Audrey. "How long have you been in a rtionship?" he asked.


    Audrey smiled. "It''s been over three years. I''ll bring my boyfriend over to meet you, Mom, and my brother


    when the time''s right."


    Giselle sighed. "No wonder Ethan kept his distance from Rosie. Maybe he saw through her from the start."


    Brenna nced at the transfer papers on the table but didn''t reach for them. Without a word, she turned and headed upstairs.


    But just as Brenna took a couple of steps, Giselle stopped her. "We agreed the shares would go to you. Sign the documents. We''re not like Ernst and Rosie. We keep our word."


    Ableson walked over to Brenna, opened the signing area, and handed the pen to her. "Go ahead and sign. If Rosie ever dares to hurt you again, I''ll make sure she faces legal consequences."


    Without further ado, Brenna signed her name.


    She was now a shareholder of the Harper Group now. From now on, she would


    be attending the Harper Group''s shareholder meetings.


    The thought alone was satisfying.


    After spending so many years with the Barrett family, working day and night


    designing cars without ever receiving shares, or even a proper sry, Brenna felt


    that it was surreal to gain a stake in the Harper Group this easily.


    Would there really be dividends at the end of the year?

 Chapter 152

    Chapter 152 At Least A Million Annually-


    Rosie lingered at the house''s entrance, and Shepard''s intense gaze was on her until she got into her car and drove away.


    Shepard realized it was crucial to hire a bodyguard for Brenna now.


    Choosing a female bodyguard became his priority, envisioning someone who could stick close to Brenna, apanying her everywhere, even to the restroom.


    He believed Rosie wouldn''t give up so easily. A wave of disappointment swept over him as he thought about her. He med himself for raising someone like her, someone who had tried to harm his daughter.


    The memories of the hardships Brenna had faced while with the Barrett family weighed heavily on him. To his surprise, today, he had seen the Barrett family''s daughter at the Harper Group''s prestigious design contest.


    How had the Barrett family managed to avoid bankruptcy? Who was in charge of handling the Barrett family? Could it be that. Ernst was secretly providing them with support?


    He let out a coldugh, suspecting this must be true.


    From now on, Shepard decided he would take direct action against the Barrett family.


    Instead of taking Ernst''s car, Rosie drove off in her own white car from the garage.


    A faint smile tugged at Brenna''s lips, as she had been waiting for this moment ever since she had tampered


    with Rosie''s car.


    With a surge of satisfaction, Brenna went upstairs.


    Giselle followed Brenna, wanting to offerfort.


    "Oh, my dear, I am so sorry for not protecting you better. You''ve suffered so much with the Barrett family, never having enough to eat or wear, and now, you have to face your cousin''s betrayal. You truly deserve so much better," Giselle said, her eyes filled with sorrowful tears.


    Brenna instinctively offered reassurance, saying, "I''m fine, aren''t I? Don''t worry about me."


    Giselle''s heart ached more intensely. "How can a young woman like you withstand so many attackers on her own? Where did you acquire your great fighting skills? It seems you''ve faced such dangers before. Your tragic experience happened because we lost you. You were meant to live afortable life, yet you were forced to endure suffering. My heart aches for you."


    Brenna responded with a gentle hug. In truth, it was through facing such trials that she had built her strength. She now came to realize the deep affection her parents held for her. They weed her wholeheartedly into


    17:18


    the family.


    A feeling of warmth and reassurance washed over her, inspiring her to cherish her parents in the future.


    At the dinner table, Shepard asked about Brenna''s studio and its potential integration with the Harper Group''s


    design team.


    "What are your thoughts? The design department manager told me that everyone was impressed with your work. Your personal entry won first ce, and your team secured second ce. Your contributions are remarkable. Would you consider joining the Harper Group with your entire team?"


    Brenna had thought about this beforehand and answered, "Actually, Dad, my studio prefers to maintain its independence. We can draft a partnership with Harper Group, but mergingpletely isn''t possible. We''remitted to several long-term contracts with otherpanies, whichplicates the matter of joining the


    Harper Group."


    Shepard showed no disappointment; instead, he admired Brenna''s wisdom. "It''s impressive how you''ve managed to lead so many talented people at your age. I respect your decision. The Harper Group will happily proceed with just a partnership with your studio, just like the otherpanies.


    In fact, the Harper Group wasn''t short on talent, boasting numerous engineers,


    yet they were in need of high-end engineers and designers. Shepard


    even wanted to offer high sries to recruit outstanding engineers like


    those in Brenna''s studio.


    Brenna nodded. "I''ll have Tommy handle this matter. He''ll draft and finalize the agreement with the Harper


    Group."


    Shepard asked with a hint of curiosity, "What is the sry you offer to your engineers?"


    With a grin, Brenna responded, "They receive high sries and significantmissions. The least anyone in my studio earns annually is a million."


    Recognizing the difference, Shepard nodded thought6.11. The engineers'' sries at the Harper Group were


    nowhere near those numbers, with even the highest-paid one earning only half a million annually.


    "You are really good to your employees," he said.


    Offering a cautious reminder, Brenna said, "Dad, please don''t try to poach my people. It took me a lot of effort to find them and put them in a team."


    Shepard let out a knowingugh as he acknowledged to himself that he had indeed thought about getting Brenna''s team members to join the Harper Group, particrly someone as talented as Tommy.


    Dayster, the Moreno family''s matter was scheduled for a public trial.


    Thiago extended an invitation to Brenna for the court session. Driving her blue car, Brenna arrived before nine.


    At the bottom of the steps, Thiago greeted her with a casual demeanor.


    As they walked up the steps together, Brenna asked, "Is all the evidence in ce for today?"


    Thiago replied with a soft smile, "We''ve submitted everything, including proof of the drugging incident involving my mother. I''m sparing no effort."


    Brenna expressed her joy for him, saying, "It''s a relief your mother could get justice now."


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    Chapter 157 At Least A Million Anously


    Thiago''s gratitude was clear as he spoke, "Your help has been invaluable to me. Thanks to you and Mr. Mitchell''s intervention, everything proceeded smoothly. Let me treat you both to a meal as a token of my appreciation sometime just tell me when you and Mr. Mitchell are free."


    Brenna readily agreed. When they entered the courtroom, it was already filled with attendees, including women who had been wronged by Han and their supportive rtives

 Chapter 153

    Chapter 153 Do You Enjoy Watching Your Own Fam...


    In the audience, many seats were filled by familles, mostly parents in their fifties and sixties who hade to support their daughters.


    Brenna noticed how modestly they were dressed. Their dothes were simple, and their faces showed the wear of years spent enduring life''s hardships. Some had traveled a long way just to witness the sentencing of the Moreno family,


    A family of three, seated closest to the aisle, stood and thanked Thiago. The woman, in her fifties and wearing a faded id shirt, had tears streaming down her cheeks. "Thank you, Mr. Moreno. Without you, we might never have seen that monster face justice. My daughter carried the weight of her pain alone for so long


    Thiago stepped forward and gently replied, "You don''t have to thank me. I''m the one who should thank you for having the courage to testify. Just like your daughter, I''m a victim, too. And together, we''ll make sure that despicable family pays for everything they''ve done to us."


    The woman nodded and dabbed at her tears with a tissue. Standing quietly behind her was a girl with long hair, her face hidden behind a ck mask andrge sunsses.


    Though her features were concealed, her outfit hinted at someone once full of confidence and beauty.


    Brenna guessed the girl had likely endured serious emotional trauma at the hands of the Moreno family, the kind that left deep,sting scars. That was why she was refusing to show her face.


    Other families in the audience also came forward, each expressing their gratitude to Thiago in their own way.


    However, not everyone found the strength toe here. Some who had been hurt chose to remain silent, still unable to face the matter.


    After a while, Thiago and Brenna took their seats in the front row and quietly waited for the trial to begin. Soon, the judge entered the courtroom, took his seat, and officially announced the start of the trial.


    Roberto, Jovie, and Han were brought out, nked by armed personnel and dressed in prison uniforms. Roberto and Han had their hair cropped short and looked unkempt, yet they still carried themselves with arrogance. Their eyes brazenly swept over the audience without a hint of shame.


    Han was the worst of the three. He didn''t look the least bit concerned about being sentenced. When he spotted the victims among the crowd, he even sneered, his gaze filled with contempt.


    Jovie camest. Her long hair was pulled back with a in hairband, and she wore no makeup. Whatever charm and sophistication she had once unted had long faded. She now looked like an ordinary woman past her prime.


    17:18


    < Chapter 153 Do You Enjoy Watching Your Own Family Fall Apart


    The three of them still clung to the belief that their troubles were merely financial.


    In their minds, a fine would be enough for them to walk free.


    But when they spotted Thiago seated in the front row, they realized that things were about to go terribly wrong


    for them.


    The victims'' families, furious at Han''s smug arrogance, couldn''t hold back any longer. Shouts erupted across the courtroom. Some even rushed forward,nding punches and kicks on Han before the guards could


    intervene.


    The judge banged the gavel several times. "If you don''t remain quiet, you''ll be removed from the courtroom."


    Only then did the crowd settle down and slowly return to their seats.


    Roberto didn''t know that most of the families in attendance were there to testify against Han. The ones he did recognize were residents who had been harmed during one of the Moreno family''s brutal demolition projects.


    At the very front sat a grieving family-an elderly couple in their seventies and a young woman in her early


    twenties.


    During the incident, the son of the family had been beaten to death by the demolition team. Not long after, his wife had taken her own life.


    Now, only the aging couple and their granddaughter remained in the family.


    "You bastard! Give me back my son and daughter-inw!" the elderly man bellowed while pointing at Roberto with a trembling finger.


    However, Roberto showed no remorse. In his mind, he had already paidpensation for the demolition. If they had refused to move, that was their fault. Getting beaten was just a consequence of their stubbornness.


    He stood at the defendant''s stand, looking unbothered. His chin was even lifted with arrogance. Meanwhile, Han let his gaze drift toward the rows of girls who hade to testify. Only one stood out in his memory-a girl with a stunning figure and a soft, innocent face. He had tormented her for three days and nights, dragging in his friends and filming every moment.


    The memory was vivid in his mind.


    She had never given her consent. And afterward, he had tossed ten thousand at her and told her to disappear.


    The girl came from a poor family with no money or influence.


    She had reported Han to the police, but he had connections. Not only had he walked free, but he had also turned the tables and threatened her. If she didn''t stay quiet, her entire family would pay the price.


    The girl had even been detained for two weeks.


    The whole thing was buried and forgotten until Thiago found the girl. Her family had agreed to testify at once. Han finally understood why so many victims were in the courtroom. His eyes snapped to Thiago, and he barked, "You brought them here, didn''t you? You''re part of the Moreno family, too. Do you enjoy watching your own family fall apart?"


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    Chapter 153 Do You Enjoy Watching Your Own Family Fall Apart


    Roberto turned to Thiago as well and red at him. "You ungrateful brat. I''m your father. He''s your brother. And this is how you treat your family, bringing us down?"

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    Chapter 154 Guilty


    All eyes in the courtroom shifted towards Thiago, including the judge''s


    Thiago stayed calm and seated as he said to Roberto, "Oh, now you remember you''re my father? You had the love and support of my mother as you built your career. And how did you repay her? You betraged her with her own sister. When she discovered the affair, not only did you deny your actions, bet you o fit her Even after she left you, you continued to target her. Do you truly think you deserve to be my father?"


    Roberto''splexion turned ashen as he cast nervous nces around the room. It was dear from the disgusted looks he received that he was now viewed as despicable.


    The crowd, made up mostly of victims, had no trouble believing Thiago''s ount.


    "Such a jerk!"


    "Scumbag!"


    Echoes of anger rose from the audience.


    Roberto paid no attention to the people from less privileged backgrounds. Their insults didn''t faze him in the slightest. He turned his focus back to Thiago and retorted sharply, "Your mother brought her downfall upon herself. Why did she hold onto the Moreno Group''s shares so desperately? If she hadn''t been so greedy, would I have done what I did? And you, you brat, I am your father, how dare you treat me like this? I will kill you


    when I am out of here!"


    His menacing words led the judge to strike the gavel, eximing. ¡°Mind your words!"


    The security personnel also intervened, saying to Roberto, "Shut up."


    Roberto threw a scornful look at the judge and acted as if the guards weren''t even there. He kept his attention locked on Thiago, his voice rising with fury. "Listen to me. Plenty havee at me, thinking they could bring me down, and everyst one of them failed. You really believe you can pull it off with your schemes and the people you''ve gathered?"


    His tone was defiant.


    Thiago had known Roberto long enough to expect such a reaction from him. He said, "We''ll find out soon enough whether I can bring you down or not. You''re cing all your hopes on the Vargas family, but maybe no one has told you yet- the Deputy Mayor has already been removed from office. Word is, someone high up, a man named Ewing Sandoval, was taken down in connection with this, too. Are you still so sure you''ll walk out of here a free man now?"


    Caught off guard, Roberto stared at Thiago, his voice incredulous. "You know about Mr. Sandoval?"


    After a moment''s reflection, he vehemently denied the possibility. "Impossible! You''re just trying to intimidate me, you little brat. It seems you weren''t disciplined enough when you were a child. I should have beaten you


    more."


    0.0%


    17:18


    Chapter 154 Guilty


    Brenna observed Thiago''s hands quiver slightly. Despite his outward confidence, he was visibly nervous.


    She gently took the pile of documents from Thiago''s hands, located the notice about Ewing Sandoval''s suspension, and approached Roberto to show him that.


    The notice was explicit and carried the official stamp from the authorities.


    Roberto stared at the notice for an extended period, hisplexion grow paler as he whispered repeatedly, "Impossible..."


    Withposure, Brenna said, "Over the past seven years, Thiago has been collecting evidence to seek justice


    for his mother. He didn''t overlook those who protected you, either. He has also amassed evidence against


    Ewing''s crimes. Mr. Moreno, thew won''t let you slip through its grasp this time." Roberto''splexion turned ghostly white, and he slumped back into his chair.


    At that instant, Han and Jovie, positioned at the adjacent defendant stands, were simrly taken aback. They


    were well aware that Ewing was the Moreno family''s protector.


    It was evident to them that the Moreno family was facing disaster now that Ewing had been brought down.


    Thiago moved to the intiff''s stand with deliberate steps, marking the official start of the trial.


    During the proceedings, Thiagoid out extensive evidence before the court, including testimonies, photographs, videos, and numerous witnesses.


    In the end, the court found all three Moreno family members guilty.


    "Congrattions, you''ve sessfully sought justice for your mother. She would be so proud of you," Brenna said to Thiago on the courthouse steps.


    Thiago responded, "I must also express gratitude towards Mr. Mitchell. His assistance was crucial in swiftly gathering the evidence against Ewing, which led to the downfall of the Moreno family. I''ll make sure to treat you and Mr. Mitchell to a meal once this is all settled."


    After a brief conversation, Brenna''s phone rang. She checked it and saw Rosie calling.


    With a soft chuckle, Brenna answered the call, only to be met with Rosie''s furious voice.


    "Brenna, I know you hate me, but do you really have to go as far as trying to kill me? Tell me, did you tamper with my white car''s brake pads?"


    Her voice was filled with both certainty and anger. Brenna could distinctly hear the noise of things being hurled on Rosie''s end, along with the voices of two girls attempting to soothe her.


    Standing on the courthouse steps, Brenna crossed her arms, observing the passersby while speaking to Rosie in a casual tone. "What''s wrong? Did something happen?"


    She pretended to be clueless.


    At the brink of losing herposure, Rosie yelled, "Stop pretending you don''t know anything about this! I''m sure you sabotaged my brake pads. And was thest car ident I was involved in also your doing? You have the audacity to do such things butck the courage to own up to them, don''t you?¡±


    < The Phantom Heiress Rising From

 Chapter 155

    Chapter 155 Confronting


    Brenna


    Brenna continued to y dumb. "I don''t know what you are talking about. Could you be more specific? What''s going on with you?" she said.


    Rosie was seething with anger while Sylvie and Vivian shook their heads in frustration, pacing restlessly around


    the room.


    Rosie finally snapped, "Are you seriously pretending you know nothing about this? Yesterday, I left the house in my car, and not long after, I collided with a dump truck at the intersection. The front of my car was totaled, and both of my legs are broken!"


    Brenna wasn''t the least bit surprised. She had already seen the news onlinest night about the horrific collision at Elm Street and instantly recognized Rosie''s white car in the photos.


    However, she hadn''t mentioned it to anyone and wasn''t sure if the Harper family members had seen the news.


    At breakfast this morning, no one in the Harper family had mentioned the matter, so she assumed they were


    still unaware of it.


    "Oh, that sounds incredibly serious. Which hospital are you at? I''lle visit you right away," Brenna said, her voice dripping with feigned concern.


    In reality, a satisfied smile yed on her lips. She was quite pleased with the situation.


    Rosie was beside herself with rage. Since the ident, only Ernst had bothered to call andfort her, but he was swamped with meetings across his various businesses and couldn''t spare the time to visit her.


    With no family around to help, Rosie had to rely solely on Sylvie and Vivian, who took turns looking after her.


    The phone was on speaker, and Sylvie was boiling over, itching to confront Brenna face-to-face.


    She said to Rosie, "Give her the address and let here. The three of us will settle the score with her when


    she is here!"


    Having heard every word, Brenna wasted no time and immediately agreed, saying, "I''ll be right over. After all, we are cousins. It''s only right for me to check on you. By the way, should I let the rest of the Harper family know about your predicament?"


    She paused briefly, then added, "You have done plenty of awful thingstely. Maybe this is karma finally catching up to you?"


    Rosie abruptly disconnected the call, sending Brenna the address before tossing the phone aside in frustration. Shey helplessly in bed, bandages wrapped around her forehead, a painful gash on her cheek, and bruises scattered all over her body. She was truly in a sorry state.


    17:18


    Chapter 155 Confronting Brenna


    Sylvie and Vivian both believed that Rosie had narrowly escaped death this time.


    The two were fuming with rage, clenching their teeth in hatred toward Brenna. They had suffered twice at her hands, and Rosie had nearly lost her life twice because of her.


    Brenna looked every bit the picture of beauty and grace, but her actions were cold and ruthless.


    Vivian gazed out the window, her expression darkening with anger. "Brenhas gone way too far this time! We


    need to teach her a lesson she''ll never forget," she said.


    Turning abruptly toward Sylvie, she added, "I can''t tolerate her behavior anymore. She ispletely out of control. She even had the nerve to sabotage Rosie''s brake pads! She clearly wants Rosie dead."


    Sylvie understood that and had been thinking the same thing. "You are right. But she is so skilled. Even Jay and


    his crew couldn''t take her down," she said.


    Vivian''s heart pounded. "Then let''s go to the police. My dad has a good rtionship with the police chief. I don''t believe she can escape thew forever."


    Recalling her own experience of being bailed out, Rosie said, "We probably won''t get her thrown in jail for good, but we could have her detained for a few hours. That will tell her that we are not to be messed with."


    Sylvie and Vivian exchanged nces before nodding in agreement. "Yes! Let''s do it. I''ll call the police right now.


    word!" Once she gets here, we will make her talk and record every


    Without hesitation, the trio set their n into motion.


    Sylvie''s eyes darkened with determination. "If that doesn''t work, we will mess with her brake pads, too."


    Before long, Brenna arrived at the hospital, carrying flowers.


    At the hospital room door, Brenna took a moment to touch up her makeup, adding more charm to her already


    striking appearance.


    Without so much as a knock, she pushed the door open and stepped inside.


    A strange sense of satisfaction washed over her when she saw Rosie lying on the hospital bed. "Your injuries look pretty serious," she remarked.


    Rosie and her two friends seethed with hatred, their anger bubbling beneath the surface, each secretly wishing they could tear Brenna apart right then and there.


    Brenna greeted Sylvie and Vivian, who looked like they had recovered well. She hadn''t seen them since the incident at the Imperial Bar.


    Brenna asked sweetly, "How have you two been holding uptely?"


    Sylvie and Vivian''s anger red even more fiercely as they vividly recalled their humiliating apology to Brenna at the Imperial Bar.


    Sylvie''s tone was ice-cold as she replied, "We are doing just fine. But tell me, Brenna-did you tamper with Rosie''s brake pads?"


    Although Brenna was unaware that the three were secretly recording the conversation, she remained cautious. "Tamper with her brake pads? What are you talking about?"


    1710


    < Chapter 155 Confronting Brenna


    Sylvie''s temper red. "Rosie''s ident happened because her brakes failed! She couldn''t stop at the intersection when the light turned red and mmed her car straight into a dump truck"


    Brenna widened her eyes in feigned shock. "No wonder the ent was so serious. She actually crashed into


    a dump truck?"


    Rosie felt her blood boil. Brenna was obviously behind the matter, yet she continued to act clueless.


    Gritting her teeth, Rosie snapped, "You are still ying innocent? My car was parked safely at home. It was in perfect condition thest time I drove it, so why would it suddenly malfunction this time? My car is a luxury model worth millions, built with the highest safety standards. It wouldn''t just break down on its own like this. You must have tampered with it! Just admit it!"

 Chapter 156

    Chapter 156 Lucky


    Brenna clicked her tongue twice. "You''re lucky to have survived. Be more careful next time," she said.


    To be exact, Rosie had walked away alive from two car idents. She was


    indeed lucky.


    Brenna looked at Rosie, who was on the hospital bed, a yful glint in her eye. At least for the next three


    months, she thought, Rosie wouldn''t be causing any more trouble for her.


    She then looked over at Sylvie and Vivian. "Don''t you think I''m right?"


    Sylvie and Vivian were so frustrated. No matter how many times they tried to trick Brenna into admitting she had tampered with the brake pads, she just kept dodging the question. It was maddening


    Vivian shot Brenna a hard look and instinctively replied, "Yeah, she is quite lucky. But next time, who knows?"


    She instantly regretted saying those words. Had she just jinxed Rosie into another crash?


    "Forget I said that!" she quickly said.


    Brenna chuckled lightly. There was something oddly satisfying about watching the three of them stew in their frustration. They were clearly fed up, but they couldn''t do a thing about her. She loved the look of irritation and helplessness on them.


    She said, "Is there anything else you want to say? If not, I''m leaving."


    Rosie hadn''t gotten what she wanted, so she wasn''t about to let Brenna leave just yet. "We''re not done here. Who said you could go?" she said.


    Brenna arched an eyebrow, her patience thinning. "What more do you want? I don''t have time to waste on you."


    Rosie stared at the flowers Brenna had brought. They were cheap andmon. Brenna was the daughter of the rich Harper family, yet she had brought her ething


    cheap. It was evident she looked down upon her.


    Rosie''s irritation deepened. She wanted to make things difficult for Brenna.


    "I want to eat an apple. Peel it for me," she said.


    Brenna didn''t refuse. She picked up an apple from the bedside table and peeled


    it.


    In no time, it was done, and she handed it to Rosie.


    But Rosie didn''t take it. "How am I supposed to eat such a big apple? Cut it into small pieces for me."


    Standing off to the side, Rachael caught on to what Rosie was doing and let out a quietugh.


    Brenna shoved the apple into Rosie''s hand. "I am not doing that. I''m not your maid."


    Rosie scowled. "What kind of attitude is that? You''re so rude."


    Without a word, Rachael took the apple, cut it into neat pieces, and ced them in a container for Rosie.


    17:18


    But Rosie had already lost interest in the apple. Her anger had smothered whatever appetite she had.


    Brenna just turned and left without another word. The moment she stepped out of the hospital, her phone buzzed with a message from Ellie.


    "I''ve almost sorted everything out. Turns out it was all a setup. I''m packing now. My flight''s in two days. How''s the house hunting? Don''t tell me you cked off and didn''t help me find one."


    Brenna replied, "My parents gave me several houses. I saved the biggest one for you. Two hundred square meters. How''s that? You don''t have to pay rent at all."


    "You are the best! By the way, how''s Jayceon doing?" Ellie responded.


    When she saw the message, Brenna pouted. It was obvious to her that Ellie still hadn''t fully moved on from Jayceon. Maybe they would end up back together soon.


    Ÿá


    Brenna replied, "I don''t know. Haven''t seen him aroundtely. But during the Harper Group''s designpetition awards, someone said he went abroad. No idea if he''s back now. Why do you ask? Thinking of getting back together with him? He doesn''t deserve you."


    Ellie responded, "It''s not like that. It''s just my son won''t quit asking for his father. Every time he sees other kids with fathers, he pesters me about the matter. I''m about to lose it."


    Brenna replied, "There are plenty of men out there. How about..."


    "You are right! How about you let me use Mr. Mitchell?" Ellie replied.


    Brenna didn''t miss a beat. "Sorry. I don''t let others use my cars or my man. But Thiago... He might make a


    decent stand-in dad."


    "Absolutely not!" Ellie fired back. "Anyone but him. Even Joe or Tommy would be better."


    "What did Thiago ever do to you? Why are you so dead set against him?" Brenna replied.


    "ying dumb, huh? Just remember to pick me up in two days. And don''t let your man know I''m back," Ellie


    responded.


    "Alright," Brenna replied.


    Brenna made her way back to her studio in the Financial Building. Inside, everyone was working hard. Tommy stood behind one of the engineers, pointing something out on a screen as they discussed design tweaks.


    As Brenna walked in, the team turned and greeted her with smiles.


    Brenna''s studio, apart from herself, was made up of 20 people, all top-tier in their fields. She had no doubt about that. Otherwise, she wouldn''t offer such high sries to them.


    "Thanks for all your hard work," Brenna said to everyone.


    Tommy followed her into the office to report something. "Remember a year ago, we designed that helicopter and fighter jet for our military client? Mr. Foster reached out today. He said the enemy''s system has been upgraded. It''s a lot like ours and very powerful. He wants us to develop a new one. They''re also asking for a more advanced fighter jet. Looks like a big job, and the payout should be good."


    Brenna tapped her fingers lightly against the desk. "I''ll take charge of both projects myself. You handle the


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    Chapter 156 Lucky


    pricing. Set the system at seventy million. The fighter jet goes for two hundred million."


    The Phantom Heiress: Rising From The Shadows

 Chapter 157

    Chapter 157 The Legacy


    Auction House


    Brenna sat across from Tommy as he poured her a fresh cup of coffee and slid it across the table. "Braeden wants to meet and go over the details," he said.


    Brenna nodded. "That''s fine. We need a clear understanding of the client''s requirements before designing. I''m


    avable to meet him anytime," she said.


    Tommy admired her unwavering confidence. She was a force to be reckoned with.


    He said, ¡°Alright. I''ll get in touch with Braeden and arrange a meeting. If we secure these two projects, I''ll assign a few people to help you with theponent designs."


    A fighter jet consists of tens of thousands of parts, making it impossible for one person to handle the entire design. Teamwork is essential forpleting the project efficiently.


    After hashing out a few more details, Tommy said, "By the way, someone has been trying to poach our staff. Three employees mentioned they were invited out for dinners, and apparently, the offers thrown at them were hard to resist. I think they are indirectly asking for raises."


    Brenna''s face remainedposed, though there was a flicker of displeasure in her eyes. "People will do what they will, and we can''t control everything. I have already offered them good sries. If they want to leave, let


    them."


    Tommy realized Brenna had no intention of raising the sries. After all, even junior engineers at their firm earned a million per year, and as a supervisor, he was already making close to ten million annually, plus year- end bonuses. Such generous pay was already rare, even among publicly listedpanies.


    He said, ¡°I understand. People are always eager to climb the careerdder, and I won''t stand in their way. Moreover, those three are at the bottom of the rank in our studio. If they leave, they won''t make it big elsewhere. In argerpany, they won''t rise to a supervisory position. I''ll try to talk some sense into them."


    Brenna nodded. Those with skills far beyond the three were already earning much more, and no bigpany would offer such generous sries. Therefore, the truly high-caliber talent in their studio wouldn''t be easily


    poached.


    "However, if they do leave, we will be short-handed. Brenna, why don''t we recruit a few more people? There are some excellent postgraduates from Shirie University. I have a list right here. If you agree, I''ll reach out to them," Tommy said, his eyes lit up with excitement.


    After a pause, he continued, "I have been keeping an eye on these postgraduates for some time now. They were standouts in their undergraduate years and even took home international awards. Our studio has worked closely with their mentor, who has given glowing rmendations for these five."


    Brenna agreed, saying, ¡°Okay. I''m not afraid to offerpetitive sries, but I''m just worried we won''t find


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    Chapter 157 The Legacy Auction House


    real talent. Go ahead and contact them."


    Brenna hadplete confidence in Tommy''s judgment. Not only was his designs work exorptional, but the business instincts were sharp as well. He had recruited half of the studio''s staff, and a de wet by his excellence was proven.


    It was the weekend, and since Giselle didn''t have any sses to teach, the took the opportunity to anale Brenna


    up early.


    Brenna had been upte the night before, fine-tuning a helicopter system she hadn''t finished to, extension weighed her down, and she groaned, burying her face deeper into the pillow. "Please, just let me sleep a little longer," she said.


    Giselle nced at theputer screen where lines of code were still running she didn''t understand the


    technical details but knew better than to touch anything.


    She said, ¡°There is an auction today, and a diamond tiara once worn by the Queen of Orwell is up for bid 1 thought I''d buy it for you aspensation for everything you''ve been through recently. Are you interested?


    Brenna''s drowsiness vanished in an instant after she heard that. She threw off the covers and sat to, eges shining with excitement. "Really? It belonged to the Queen of Orwall before?"


    She had only seen the diamond tiara in magazines. It was stunningly luxurious with a distinctive design, truly


    one of a kind in the world.


    What made it even more special was that she had met the Queen of Orwall once and felt a special connection to her. Honestly, she really wanted to own that diamond tiara.


    "That''s fantastic! I''ll get up right now!" Brenna said.


    Giselle replied with a smile, "I''ll be waiting for you downstairs."


    At exactly ten in the morning, Brenna and Giselle arrived at Shirie''srgest underground auction house.


    This auction house was far from ordinary. The items up for bid were often of questionable origin and carried staggering price tags. Moreover, the items were extremely diverse, even including some prohibited goods.


    Brenna found it intriguing that someone as influential as Giselle not only knew about this ce but had also


    chosen toe here.


    As expected, Giselle didn''t exin the true nature of the auction house to Brenna, letting her assume it was entirely legitimate.


    They showed their passes to the staff members, who nodded and led them inside without a hitch.


    The Legacy Auction House featured a different number of items each time, making it unpredictable. From the preview disyed at the entrance of Hall One, Brenna got a quick glimpse of the items. Alongside the famed diamond tiara once worn by the Queen of Orwall, there was also a rare medicinal herb she had been searching for over the past few years.


    The nt was known as Woodham. It had remarkable cardiovascr benefits, with every part of it possessing potent medicinal properties. However, it was exceptionally scarce and nearly impossible to obtain.


    Brenna saw that the opening bid for Woodham was set at ten million.


    17.19


    Chapter 157 The Legacy Auction House


    She ced a bidding budget of three hundred million with the auction house.


    Giselle didn''t ask her anything about it. Without a word, she followed suit, registering funds to bid on the tiara.

 Chapter 158

    Chapter 158 The Tiara Of The Queen Of Orwall


    "You silly child, save your money. As long as I''m here, you won''t need to spend a single cent," Giselle chided Brenna as she quietly transferred a hefty sum into Brenna''s ount.


    Brenna sighed to herself. When she had been part of the Barrett family, she had never had enough money, and she had barely made enough to cover basic living costs. But now, things were different. She didn''t even have the chance to spend money.


    Just when she thought she could finally splurge a little, Giselle transferred more money to her ount.


    "Mom, I have money," Brenna said. "You don''t have to give me any."


    Giselle threw her a side nce and said, "As long as I''m here, it''s not your turn to spend."


    They then stepped into a private room-Room 7.


    Most buyers at this auction preferred to keep their identities hidden. Unlike traditional auction houses that held events in open halls, this one operated in a semi-enclosed space.


    The auctioneer and items were in the center, surrounded by private rooms for buyers. Each room featured one -way ss, allowing upants a clear view of the main hall. However, people outside couldn''t see inside these rooms, guaranteeing total privacy for the buyers.


    The private rooms werepact, barely five square meters, with just enough space for two seats facing the ss.


    Brenna, who knew the ce quite well, saw a rare emerald bracelet on the disy stand. She immediately thought it would perfectly match her mother''s refined style.


    Since returning to the Harper family, she hadn''t yet purchased any gifts for her parents. She wanted to use the three hundred million she had transferred to the auction house to buy her mother that bracelet.


    In Room 16, Ethan sat beside Neville, both men waiting calmly as the auction was about to begin.


    Neville said in a low voice, "Mr. Mitchell, I saw Viper downstairs with Miss Mendoza. They are also here to bid for the Orwall Queen''s diamond tiara."


    Ethan gave a slight nod, his brow knitting together. He remained silent, his sharp gaze locked onto the auctioneer and the empty tform at the hall''s center.


    "Go and add another two hundred million for me," Ethan instructed in a measured tone.


    Neville instantly understood what Ethan meant. "Yes, sir. Viper''s wealth is not to be taken lightly. He is also known for showering women withvish gifts. He might go to extremes for Miss Mendoza."


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    Chapter 158 The Tiara Of The Queen Of Orwall


    He slipped out of the room after saying that.


    A few minutester, he returned just as the auction officially began. The first items


    went quickly, each fetching a few million without much fanfare.


    The sixth item was that exquisite emerald bracelet. The starting bid was thirty million, with each increase set


    at one million.


    As soon as the bracelet was announced, a beautiful attendant entered, carrying it on a velvet-lined tray. She moved from room to room, pausing at each one for about twenty seconds, giving buyers a clear view of the piece through the one- way ss.


    Brenna studied the bracelet, a smile tugging at her lips. Turning to Giselle, she said, "Mom, I think this bracelet


    suits you perfectly."


    Giselle''s eyes sparkled when she saw the bracelet. She clearly liked it. She already had plenty of jewelry-pearls, jade, diamonds, and various gemstones- and her jewelry box was practically overflowing. Each piece was


    valuable.


    However, she understood that her daughter''s words came from the heart, and she nodded with a warm smile.


    "I like it."


    Brenna''s thoughtfulness in wanting to buy her a gift showed that she had truly epted Giselle and Shepard. Touched to the core, Giselle nearly burst into tears and pulled her daughter into a tight, emotional hug.


    Even though the money came from her, a warm sense of joy blossomed in her heart.


    The bidding began, and thepetition for the bracelet was fierce. Each raise added another million, and in no time, the bracelet''s price shot up to seventy million.


    Soon, only three bidders remained in the running.


    The contenders were from Room 7, Room 23, and Room 27.


    Brenna ced her bid. "Ny million!"


    The microphone system in each room masked the voices, ensuring no one could even tell whether the bidder


    was male or female.


    Room 23 wasted no time and countered, "One hundred million!"


    Room 27 bowed out, leaving just Brenna and the bidder from Room 23 locked in a bidding war.


    The emerald bracelet was of exceptional quality, an item so rare and exquisite that only a handful like it existed


    in the world.


    Driven by the desire to win it for her mother, Brenna raised the stakes with a bold bid of two hundred million. Finally, the bidder in Room 23 gave up.


    The next item up for bid was a rather unremarkable piece.


    Brenna wasn''t interested in the item, so she took the opportunity to deposit another two hundred million with the auction house manager. She was concerned that someone mightpete with her for the Woodham, a rare and valuable item of great significance.


    17:19


    Soon after, the Orwall Queen''s diamond tiara was brought to the stage.


    The auctioneer spoke with great reverence, detailing how the tiara was set with many diamonds and a wless ruby, each gem worth a small fortune. This magnificent tiara had been worn by the Queen on her fiftieth


    anniversary, making it not only a piece of jewelry but also a historical artifact.


    Though the auctioneer didn''t exin how the tiara had found its way to the auction, he wove captivating


    stories about its history, heightening its allure and mystique.


    The bidding for the Orwall Queen''s diamond tiara began at one hundred million, with each bid increasing by ten


    million.


    Brenna didn''t rush to ce a bid. She watched as the price steadily climbed, reaching seven hundred million after the first round. Powerful buyers were clearly determined to get the tiara.

 Chapter 159

    Chapter 159 We Can''t Just Give Up


    "Viper, you gave up on that bracelet earlier, but I must have that tiara for my birthday!" Valeria Mendoza,


    strikingly beautiful, said in a sweet tone.


    Despite her height, which was taller than most women, her beauty remained unchanged. She wore a strapless,


    short dress that barely reached her thighs.


    Viper presented himself as a polished man with sharp features that suggested he was a wealthy young


    gentleman, far from the brutal underworld boss he actually was.


    His look was one of resolute determination. He was intent on securing the tiara not only for the woman beside


    him, but also for his own pride.


    Three years ago, he had embarked on a critical mission to assassinate the Queen of Orwall. That mission had been thwarted by a remarkably skilled woman. It was one of the few missions he had personally undertaken and the only one he had failed, a personal disgrace that still haunted him.


    He had recently learned that the Queen''s diamond tiara was now avable on the ck market. His resolve was to im it as a trophy to remind himself to track down and kill that woman.


    Adding to his frustration was that this woman had worn a mask during her encounter with the Queen, obscuring her identity. He had been forced to consult specialists to attempt to reconstruct her face based on


    her masked images.


    Despite exhaustive searches by his people globally over the past three years, he was unable to find that woman.


    "Alright." Viper''s cold stare remained on the diamond tiara as the price escted to eig hundred million, yet he refrained from


    The auction was now down to two bidders-people from Room 9 and Room 13.


    Just then, Valeria pulled at Viper''s arm. "Viper, should I ce our bid now?" Viper gave a nod.


    Valeria instantly offered nine hundred million.


    The bidders who had been actively bidding gave up.


    With no furtherpetition, Valeria''s face lit up. She believed that the diamond tiara was almost within her reach.


    "Viper, we''ve got it," she said.


    "Nine hundred and fifty million!" Brenna eximed, slightly shocked that another bidder had the same strategy


    17:19


    of holding back until the final moments.


    Giselle''s brow furrowed, concerned that their billion-dor budget might fall short. She said, "I won''t expecting such fiercepetition for this tiara. I''ll hand in additional funds."


    She was set on winning the tiara.


    Though Brenna also desired the tiara, she questioned whether spending a billion on an item she would seldom


    wear was worth it.


    "Forget it, Mom; let''s just see how this unfolds naturally," Brenna said.


    Giselle said firmly, "Absolutely not. I want to give it to you as a birthday present. We can''t just give up


    Giselle hurried off to arrange for the additional funds.


    Brenna kept a close eye on the situation outside the room.


    A staggering bid of one billion came from Room 16.


    In Room 23, the faces of Valeria and Viper darkened. They had capped their funds at a billion and could go no


    higher.


    Viper said, "What''s so special about this tiara that everyone''s fighting for it? Go find out who''s in Room 16!"


    Valeria''s face was a mask of seriousness as she responded, "Understood." Brenna was shocked by the person in Room 16''s sudden aggressive bid. They also used the strategy of waiting patiently before striking decisively.


    She considered the situation with a thoughtful frown. Despite having met the Queen of Orwall, she questioned whether the tiara was indeed worth a billion.


    After a moment of deliberation, she raised the bid by ten million.


    She was testing to see whether the person in room 16 would keep up the bidding.


    "One billion and twenty million!" Ethan noted that only the person in Room 7 remained in contention with him. They also seemed determined to get the tiara. Brenna raised the bid again. "One billion and thirty million!"


    Ethan recognized the perseverance of the person in Room 7, who showed no signs of backing down, and responded with a direct bid of one billion three hundred million.


    Brenna chose not to continue bidding.


    In the end, the Queen of Orwall''s diamond tiara was sold for the staggering sum


    of one billion three hundred


    million.


    By the time Giselle returned, the auction for the tiara had already concluded.


    Giselle expressed her regret, saying, "It''s a pity. I just handed in an additional five hundred million, we could havepeted with them and gotten the tiara."


    Brenna remained calm, saying, "It''s fine."


    17.19


    Brenna was anticipating the auction of the Woodham, which was next. To her surprise, there waspetition, but she secured it for seventy million.


    Exiting the auction house, Brenna noticed a familiar presence in the lobby. Ethan, dressed in a ck suit, moved


    toward the exit with aposed manner, not ncing sideways.


    Brenna was curious about his presence here and wondered if he was after a specific item.


    Despite noticing Ethan, Brenna chose to ignore him, acting as if she hadn''t seen him at all. She believed maybe he didn''t want her to find out what he was really interested in.


    But just then, Giselle called out, "Ethan!"


    As Ethan turned, his stern expression softened when he saw Brenna and Giselle approach with a friendly demeanor. "Mrs. Harper, Brenna, what brings you here?" Brenna lifted the bag she was carrying and said, "We just attended the auction."

 Chapter 160

    Chapter 160 Find Out More


    About That Woman


    Giselle understood the unspoken rules of this ce. People who came here preferred discretion, so she just asked about Vincent''s health. ¡°How is your grandfather?"


    She had seen Vincent just days before, who had been doing rehabilitation exercises.


    Ethan''s eyes briefly flickered to the bags Brenna was holding. He guessed that the smaller bag on the left contained something minor from the auction, possibly the emerald bracelet.


    The bigger, more robust bag on the right seemed to be holding a nt, likely the Woodham, which Brenna could use for her medicinal concoctions, given her expertise.


    After a quick nce at Brenna''s bags, Ethan responded to Giselle courteously, "Thank you for asking, Mrs. Harper. My grandfather is now able to walk on his own, though he moves quite slowly."


    His gaze shifted to Brenna, thinking that the Harpers might not be privy to Brenna''s role in Vincent''s treatment.


    Brenna had been going to treat Vincent by herself.


    If Giselle were aware that Brenna had been treating Vincent, she would certainly have mentioned it.


    Giselle suggested, nodding towards the exit, "Let''s leave together."


    Ethan, showing no urgency to leave, handed the bag he was holding to Brenna, saying, "This is for you."


    Brenna gave her own bags to Giselle and took Ethan''s. Ethan took out a small box from the bag.


    The box was decorated in a style reminiscent of Orwallian artistry. Inside was a diamond tiara, sparkling


    brilliantly.


    Ethan said to Brenna, "You''ll look absolutely beautiful wearing this at our engagement party."


    Brenna looked at the beautiful tiara in surprise. She now realized that Ethan had been the bidder in Room 16, who hadpeted with her for the tiara.


    "Thank you," she said with a warm smile.


    She paused, then added, "I love it."


    Ethan tenderly ced the tiara on Brenna''s head, his eyes showing deep affection. "It looks perfect on you," he


    said.


    Giselle observed the pair with a sense of contentment, believing they were a perfect match.


    She looked at her daughter, convinced that Brenna was the most beautiful woman in the world.


    Chapter 160 Find Out More About That Woman


    Just then, Viper walked over with Valeria Mendoza. They paused in front of Brenna.


    Valeria''s expression showed her annoyance at not wearing the tiara herself. Both Brenna and Ethan turned their attention to Viper.


    Ethan, having had previous unpleasant encounters with Viper, made no effort to conceal his contempt for him. He said coldly, "It''s rare to see you showing interest in anything, Viper."


    He then looked over at Valeria, having heard rumors that Viper only kept the most capable individuals with him. It was rumored that a woman apanying him was an expert in explosives and had assisted him on numerous operations. Ethan believed Valeria was likely the one.


    Ethan observed Viper''s bodyguard holding a wooden box, uncertain of its contents.


    Due to the day''s multiple auction sessions, he had not kept track of all the items being auctioned.


    Viper, also showing disdain for Ethan, looked at Brenna with a disrespectful smirk. "Is she the woman you are


    interested in?"


    Ethan offered no reply, just a coldugh.


    Viper looked at Brenna and said, "Not bad."


    Ethan responded with a hint of sarcasm, "Your woman is not bad, either."


    Viper''s attention then settled on the tiara on Brenna''s head. "Typical of the world''s richest man, spending 1.3 billion just to please a woman."


    His expression was cold and challenging.


    Brenna disliked Viper. She always believed that he was dangerous.


    She remembered her fight with Jay and how she had turned him over to the police. Viper was likely aware of the matter. If he discovered her involvement in the matter, would he seek revenge?


    Although Viper appeared gentlemanly, Brenna was aware of his merciless nature from previous encounters.


    Viper looked at Brenna with disdain, and he was intrigued by her apparentck of fear. He let his gaze linger on


    her for a moment before walking away.


    As he entered his car, Viper instructed his bodyguard, "Find out more about that woman."


    The bodyguard nodded with deference.


    Brenna took off the tiara and carefully ced it back in its box. "Thank you!" she said to Ethan.


    Somehow, she couldn''t shake the feeling that someone was watching her.


    Ethan led Brenna outside, engaging in light conversation and offering warm smiles.


    Meanwhile, Viper''s bodyguard, concealed in the shadows, took multiple photographs of Brenna from various angles.


    Brenna was difficult to investigate, but Giselle was not. Her details were swiftly passed on to Viper.


    "So, it''s her." Valeria, looking over the documents on the table, spoke with slight surprise and a trace of


    41.6%


    17:19


    respect. "Brenna was the one who dealt with Jay. I never imagined her to be so beautiful. Who would have thought? Not only is she stunning, but she''s also skilled in fighting."


    Viper''s face remained expressionless. "I have a feeling I''ve seen her before," he said.


    Valeria''s expression darkened immediately. "You''re not developing an interest in her, are you?"

 Chapter 161

    Chapter 161 I Missed You


    So Much


    On Sunday, Brenna was at the airport waiting for Ellie to arrive.


    Just then, her phone started ringing-it was Ethan calling. His voice, deep and soothing, soon filled her ear. "Are you free now? How about we grab lunch together? I can pick you up."


    It was then that Brenna noticed several unread messages on her phone, all from Ethan, asking if she was free


    for lunch.


    With a smile, she responded, "Sorry, I''m busy this afternoon."


    She chose not to borate, remembering Ellie''s warning; she couldn''t let Ethan know about Ellie''s arrival, as he might pass the information to Jayceon.


    On the top floor of the Mitchell Group building, Ethan stood next to the floor-to- ceiling windows, holding his phone. Brenna''s refusal surprised him. It was Sunday, and Brenna typically wasn''t at her studio on Sundays. He wondered what she could be upied with.


    Still, Ethan respected her privacy and didn''t probe further. Instead, he suggested, "How about we meet for


    dinner then?"


    Behind him, Neville was quietly impressed by Brenna. From what he knew, no one had ever turned down Ethan. He thought Brenna''s audacity was notable, or perhaps she was just unaware of Ethan''s prominence in the global business


    scene.


    Ethan was a titan in international business, known for his strategic prowess in corporate management and investment. His guidance on business was highly sought after and could significantly impact any individual or


    business.


    eople were willing to pay just to have dinner with Ethan, but he always refused them.


    Neville believed Ethan''s time was valuable, and Brenna should have felt honored that Ethan was willing to spend time with her.


    Yet, Brenna had turned Ethan down.


    Neville grew concerned for Brenna¡ªshe was the first to ever refuse Ethan. He pondered whether Ethan would


    get angry.


    Neville watched Ethan''s back, his hands tensed into fists. He worried that if Brenna also declined the dinner invitation, Ethan might actually be mad.


    Silently, he hoped Brenna would ept.


    The next second, he heard Ethan''sposed voice break the silence. "Alright, I''ll pick you up tonight."


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    Chapter 161 1 Missed You So Much


    After hanging up the call, Ethan turned and sat back down, his mind drifting to the news about a flight arriving from Norview at the international airport.


    ¡°Brenna must be picking someone up at the airport," he mutter.


    Ethan recalled that Jayceon had been in Norview for the past several weeks, still searching for Ellie. While he felt for Jayceon, there was little he could do to help him.


    Brenna was currently at the airport. Could she be there to pick up Ellie?


    Ethan wasn''t sure; perhaps she was there to pick up someone else.


    Neville noticed the serious look on Ethan''s face and suspected he was troubled


    by Brenna''s refusal. "Mr. Mitchell, is everything alright?" he asked.


    "Yeah. Book a table for me at Sky Heaven for eight o''clock tonight," Ethan instructed calmly.


    Neville promptly exited to make the booking, while Ethan hesitated, contemting whether to inform Jayceon about what Brenna was doing.


    Then, he remembered that he had already betrayed Brenna once. He couldn''t


    bring himself to do it again. After all, a wife held more significance than a friend to him.


    Jayceon was responsible for his own troubles. It was his job to seek his wife''s forgiveness.


    After thinking that, Ethan felt relieved. By staying loyal to Brenna, he would avoid ending up like Jayceon, estranged from his loved one.


    At the airport, Brenna''s face brightened at the sight of a familiar figure¡ªa tall, beautiful woman maneuvering arge luggage cart, with a charming little boy perched on top, eagerly waving at her.


    ¡°Brenna!¡± Patrick Moore jumped off the luggage cart and dashed towards Brenna.


    It had been two years since Brennast saw her godson. He had grown noticeably taller. She spread her arms wide and bent down to lift him into a hug.


    Patrick smothered her with kisses and held her face gently. "I missed you so much! Did you get me a gift?" he


    said.


    His actions were overly dramatic, yet his words showed unexpected maturity.


    Wearing trendy sunsses and a sleek ck jacket, Patrick turned heads with his stylish appearance.


    "What a handsome young boy!" a young woman nearby said, clearly charmed.


    Ellie, following with the luggage cart, instructed firmly, "Get down now. You''re getting too old to cling to Brenna


    like that."


    Patrick reluctantly released Brenna and pouted. Brenna handed him a white box and yfully pinched his cheek. "Here''s thetest custom car model I designed. I need it for a lecture soon, but you can y with it till


    then."


    Patrick''s eyes sparkled with excitement. "Brenna, is this one of those models one can build and take apart?" he


    asked.


    40.8%


    (?


    <


    Chapter 1611 Missed You So Much


    Brenna confirmed with a nod, saying, "Yes, it''s just the kind you like."


    Upon opening the box and discovering a sleek, blue car model inside, Patrick smiled happily. "It seems you''re even more skilled than before."


    Brenna smiled gently. This child was wless in every way, except for being a bit too clever. At just six years old, he had thoughts that were nearly as mature as an adult''s, and the things he said never seemed like they were from a child.

 Chapter 162

    Chapter 162 Brenna''s Child


    Ellie softly ran her hand over her son''s hair, her expression one of clear frustration. "I''m so envious. He is my son, but he''s so attached to you. His interests mirror yours-cars, mechanics, airnes, warships... He''s even into coding, just like you. Sometimes I think he might actually be your child."


    Brenna smirked slightly. "What can I say? We spent a lot of time together when he was little."


    After a brief hug, Brenna handed Ellie some flowers. "You look as stunning as always. Now I''m the one who''s


    envious."


    Ellie, only a few years older than Brenna, possessed remarkable beauty and a figure that belied her status as a mother of a six-year-old. Her flowing hair and meticulous makeup only enhanced her allure.


    As Brenna and Ellie conversed, a young couple passed by, both donning sunsses and baseball caps. The man kept his gaze fixed on Ellie, secretly taking pictures with his phone, and even whistled at her.


    The woman with him seemed irritated by that, tugging at his arm. "Why are you staring at her? What''s so special about her? She probably got stic surgery to look like that."


    Brenna was prepared to ignore them, but then, she recognized the pair-it was Denis and Isabe!


    Isabe also noticed Brenna and let out a loud, disdainful snort, rolling her eyes.


    Brenna was puzzled by Isabe''s behavior and looked at her with an icy gaze. Isabe walked over to Brenna with confidence. "Don''t be too smug! Soon, you will face bankruptcy."


    Brenna responded, confused, ¡°Are you out of your mind? What nonsense are you talking about?"


    Isabe snorted once more but didn''t say another word. She shot Brenna a re before walking away with


    Denis.


    As they left, Isabe kept looking back at Brenna and the little boy, overhearing him call Brenna "Mommy Brenna", which left her thoroughly baffled. She wondered when Brenna had had such a big child? Had she secretly had a baby when she had been overseas?


    This revtion seemed like a big scandal. She couldn''t resist a smug grin. Could the Harper family''s darling daughter have an illegitimate child? And who could the child''s father be?


    Contemting whether Ethan would stay with Brenna if he learned she had a child, Isabe hastily snapped several pictures of Brenna and the child.


    After capturing the photos, she noticed Denis was still admiring the beautiful woman beside Brenna.


    7


    Annoyed, she grabbed his chin, forcing him to look at her, and pouted theatrically. "Am I not prettier than he She must have had stic surgery before. Her beauty is not real."


    Though Denis was clearly annoyed by Isabe, he kept his frustration to himself and just followed her out of


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    Chapter 162 Brenna''s Child


    the airport


    Inside the Wagner family''s car, Isabe mentioned the child who had been with Brenna earlier.


    "Did you catch what that cool little boy called Brenna?" she asked Denis.


    Denis, not particrly interested in talking to Isabe, responded with impatience. "No"


    Isabe''s annoyance grew, but she held back from snapping at Denis. Sworried that upsetting him could jeopardize her family''s rtionship with the Wagner family, or worse, Denis might not want to marry her.


    She sneered, "You were too busy staring at that woman beside Brenna! You missed it-the boy called Brenna


    ''Mommy''."


    "1..." Denis had indeed been too distracted by Ellie to notice that earlier.


    Isabe, still irked but unable to snap at Denis, said, "Did you notice how close that boy was to Brenna?"


    Denis''s nk stare confirmed he hadn''t.


    In frustration, Isabe thrust her phone towards his face. She disyed a photo of the boy nting a kiss on


    Brenna''s cheek.


    Denis inspected the photo more carefully and was surprised. "They really look like mother and son. When did Brenna have a kid? And with whom?" he said.


    He scrutinized the pictures, noting the boy''s handsome features, which slightly resembled Brenna''s. Puzzled, he said, "This is big news. I wonder how Ethan will take this news."


    He sneered, "The Mitchell family has a strong presence in politics and the military. It''s unlikely Brenna could marry Ethan now."


    He then looked at Isabe with a sense of satisfaction. "Just as you wanted."


    Isabe felt a wave of triumph. If the Harper family learned that Brenna had a child, how would they react? They might even disown Brenna.


    Isabe immediately thought of Rosie and was eager to share the news with her. Denis observed her with a dismissive look, considering her foolish.


    He said, "Rosie has already been kicked out of the Harper family. What''s the point in telling her this? Even if she informs the Harper family, would they believe her? You should tell Ernst about the matter instead!"


    Isabe dismissed his idea with a snort, confident in her strategy. "You don''t understand Rosie. Telling her is like broadcasting it to everyone. Just wait and see."


    21:37

 Chapter 163

    Chapter 163 Is That My Dad


    In Rosie''s hospital room, a group of business-d individuals was gathered around her bed, three men and two women, as Rosie delegated tasks.


    "Did everyone get that clearly?" Rosie, though primarily stationed at a branch office for thest two years and seldom at headquarters, had kept strong ties at headquarters, particrly with the senior staff. The group present included five top executives from the Harper Group''s headquarters. Among them was a man in his forties, the technical director responsible for automotive manufacturing


    The two women, both about thirty, held significant positions: one as head of thepany''s secretariat and the other as the public rtions manager. The remaining two men managed different departments. They were all tasked with various responsibilities for Brenna''s uing lecture at the Harper Group.


    These five had been promoted by Rosie via the board of directors, earning her their loyalty and quick response


    to her calls.


    "We understand," they assured Rosie earnestly.


    Just as Rosie was about to dismiss them, her phone buzzed with a new message. She opened it casually but then stared at it in disbelief, zooming in on each photo, her face breaking into a delighted grin. ¡°I can''t believe Brenna has a child this age!" she eximed.


    The Harper Group executives leaned closer to her to see the photos curiously.


    "Unbelievable!" the head of the secretariat eximed in shock. "I thought she was inexperienced in love during her award eptance speech. Turns out that is not the case at all."


    The other female executive was equally taken aback. "This is perfect! We can use this to our advantage. If this news breaks before her lecture tomorrow, would she be ousted?"


    Rosie, thrilled by the prospects, quickly began crafting a more borate scheme. "What an excellent turn of events! We need to adjust our strategy now. I doubt Brenna will bring her child to the lecture tomorrow. Listen to me. We need to discreetly disy a photo of her and her child during her lecture so that everyone


    can see


    the real her..."


    Brenna, Ellie, and Patrick arrived at the expansive Bayview Apartments.


    Julia and two maids had already tidied the apartment and arranged some essentials.


    They awaited downstairs to assist with the luggage.


    Brenna instructed Julia, "Please ensure everything is in order and prepare a few dishes..."


    She was aware that after a twenty-hour flight, Ellie was probably starving. On top of that, the food abroad was so different from what they had at home, and Ellie frequentlyined about it, always craving the familiar


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    Chapter 163 Is That My bad


    tastes of home.


    As Brenna thought about what dishes to prepare, Ellie interjected, "Just any home-cooked dishes will do Im tired of foreign food. I just want to eat something and sleep."


    Patrick made a face of displeasure. "Mommy, but I want to go out and y!


    Ellie gently tapped her son''s cheek. "Let Brenna take you out to y. I need to catch some sleep"


    She then said to Brenna, "Patrick was so bored on the ne that he slept the entire way, but I was up working I had a client who was pressing me, so I spent the flight working on a design draft. By the time wended, i sent it off to the studio to start on the samples. I''m exhausted because of that. You need to take care of Patrick


    for me now."


    Brenna sympathized with Patrick, patting his head. "Poor thing, you must have suffered a lot living with your mom abroad. Your mom doesn''t know how to cook, so you must have eaten a lot of fast food."


    Patrick nodded earnestly. "She really can''t cook, but she did take me to nice restaurants when she had time.


    It''s not so bad."


    Brenna left some instructions with Julia to ensure Ellie was well taken care of. Then, she and Patrick headed out. Shirie was home to many amusement parks for children, and she nned to take him to one.


    When Brenna returned that evening with Patrick, she discovered Julia and the others had already returned to the Harper family''s home, and Ellie was sound asleep.


    She gave a helpless shrug and said to Patrick, "Looks like you have to go home with me now. Don''t worry. The chef at my home makes fantastic food."


    Just as they were about to leave, Brenna''s phone rang-it was Ethan calling.


    Brenna hadpletely forgotten their dinner ns.


    She decided to take Patrick to the restaurant with her. Ethan had been waiting for her at the entrance for more


    than half an hour.


    "Wow, Mommy, is that my dad? He looks so cool!" Patrick eximed as he spotted the tall, casually dressed Ethan, who looked effortlessly stylish, exactly how Patrick had imagined his father would look like.


    He added, "Mommy, my dad is so handsome! Did you bring me here to see him?¡±


    He released Brenna''s hand and dashed towards Ethan.


    "You look so much like me. Are you my dad?" He hugged Ethan''s leg tightly,


    looking up at his face. The more he stared, the more he saw the resemnce between Ethan and himself, convinced they looked nearly the


    same.

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    Chapter 164 Don''t Tell The Russell family About Th...


    Brenna felt a bit resigned, finally grasping the extent of Ellie''s frustrations with her son Patrick would often see a good-looking man and assert that they resembled each other, wondering if the man could be his father


    "He''s not your father," Brenna said, softly patting Patrick''s head and tousling his hair to soothe him


    The smile quickly faded from Patrick''s face. He released Ethan''s leg and stepped back to Brenna''s side, his expression one of deep sadness. He gazed up at Brenna, his eyes glossy with tears on the brink of spilling. His mother had promised that upon their return, they would see his father.


    He had been back in the country for several hours now but still hadn''t met his father. ''Did my Mommy Be to me? Do I really have a father?"


    Brennaforted him softly, saying, "Everyone has a mom and dad, and so do you. Once your mom has gotten enough rest, she''ll surely take you to see your dad."


    Patrick gave a reluctant nod, his lips pursed in silence.


    Ethan observed the little boy with intrigue, curious about who the good-looking child belonged to.


    "Whose child is this?" he asked casually.


    Brenna remembered Ellie''s advice to keep information from Ethan. She replied, "He''s a friend''s child, recently


    back from overseas."


    Ethan didn''t press further and just nodded.


    Later that night, Brenna arrived home around ten o''clock.


    Patrick hopped out of the car and, upon seeing the expansive, luxurious house, dashed inside full of excitement.


    "Wow! Mommy Brenna, your house is so big and beautiful!" he eximed joyfully, quickly scouting the first


    floor.


    His loud enthusiasm caught the attention of Shepard, Giselle, and Dalton, who were on the fourth floor and came down to see what was happening.


    Patrick, ever the energetic child, saw Shepard and Giselle and ran up to them with a bright smile, saying, "Good evening!"


    fully


    Shepard was instantly charmed by the little boy, thinking how delightful it would be


    to have such a spirited and adorable grandson.


    "What''s your name, young man?" Shepard asked.


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    Chapter 164 Don''t Tell The Russell family About The Child


    "My name is Patrick Moore," Patrick replied.


    Shepard and Giselle shared a chuckle and then turned to Brenna as she approached.


    Brenna exined, "He''s my best friend''s son."


    Dalton, who had plenty of free timetely, had just returned home as well.


    The moment he saw the little boy-charming and full of style-he felt an instant warmth toward him and


    instinctively reached out to gently pat his head.


    Patrick looked up at Dalton and greeted him cheerfully.


    Dalton said warmly, "You''re such a polite young man! How old are you?"


    Patrick replied brightly, "I''m six years old."


    Brenna said, "Dalton, could you let him sleep in your room tonight? And maybe help him with his bath?"


    Dalton readily agreed and led the boy upstairs to the fourth floor.


    Giselle, who had heard Patrick calling Brenna Mommy, said, "Why does the child call you Mommy? That seems


    inappropriate."


    Brenna exined as they sat down, "When I was living in Norview, I met his mother. She was pregnant and had severed ties with her family, managing everything by herself. I was also going through a tough time, so we ended up sharing an apartment. After Patrick was born, I became his godmother, and his mother went back to work. We took turns looking after him based on our schedules. It continued like that until I came back here. Initially, he called me ''godmother'', but eventually, he started calling me ''Mommy'' because he felt ''godmother'' wasn''t intimate enough."


    Giselle understood the matter but disapproved of it. "You''re not married, and having a child call you Mommy might lead people to think you have a child out of wedlock. It would be better if he didn''t call you that."


    Brenna didn''t agree. She believed her mother was overthinking the matter.


    Shepard said to Brenna, "Your mother is right. His real mother might not appreciate him calling you Mommy. It''s important to keep rtionships clear. He already has a mother; calling you Mommy is confusing. And what about his father? If you''re his Mommy, what does that imply about your rtionship with his father?"


    Brenna responded, "You''re right, Dad. I''ll talk to him about this tomorrow." "Which family is he from?" Shepard asked.


    "He belongs to the Russell family," Brenna answered. "Dad, please don''t mention this to Mr. Russell. The Russell family is unaware of the child''s existence. The boy takes his mother''sst name."


    er sons


    Shepard snorted, his expression showing disapproval, but he was not surprised by the revtion. "None of the Russell sons is easy to handle. Mrs. Russell is practically losing her mind dealing with them. Both got the family''s good looks, but neither of them is willing to settle down and get married. If my sons ever acted like that, I''d give them a good beating."


    33


    Giselle frowned and scolded her husband, "Why would you bring this up in front of Brenna?"


    She then turned to Brenna. "You can go get some rest. You have a lecture at headquarters tomorrow."


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    Chapter 164 Dorit Tell The Russell family About The Child


    Brenna nodded and said, "Don''t tell the Russell family about the child."


    Giselle assured her, saying, "I won''t say a word, but I can''t promise the same for your father. He''s been close to


    Mr. Russell for many years."


    Brenna looked at Shepard, hoping for his reassurance. If they weren''t her


    parents, she might have kept this


    from them.


    Shepard also reassured Brenna, saying, "I won''t say a thing The Russell family''s


    situation isplicated enough. If I tell them this, it''ll only make things worse.


    They''re already in enough chaos as it is,"


    Rmended for your

 Chapter 165

    Chapter 165 She Already Has A Child


    On Monday morning, Brenna woke up early, she approached Dalton''s door and knocked softly, thinking might still be sleeping she needed Dalton to look after Patrick today because she had a lecture schedided the Harper Group headquarters and wouldn''t be avable to care for him herself


    Although she considered taking him back to Ellie, she knew Ellie well enough to guess she was likely still story leaving her with no option but to rely on Dalton.


    But when the door opened, it wasn''t Dalton who greeted her.


    Instead, Patrick stood there, already neatly dressed, with a stylish little backpack over his shoulder.


    Brenna expressed her surprise, saying, "Why are you up so early?"


    Patrick responded, "Mommy, I find it hard to sleep in new ces, and Dalton wouldn''t let me cuddle with him....


    Brennaughed gently and stroked his head. "Let''s stick to calling me Brenna. ''Mommy'' might not sit well with your dad."


    "Okay," Patrick agreed, showing maturity beyond his years with a thoughtful nod.


    Brenna peeked inside and noticed Dalton was still fast asleep, unaware that Patrick was leaving.


    She then led Patrick downstairs.


    She said, "Today''s a busy day for me. Could you stay at home and spend time with Dalton?"


    Patrick''s face fell slightly as he replied, "I''d rather stay with you."


    Brenna was a bit puzzled. Could it be that Dalton had bullied Patrick? Maybe that was why Patrick didn''t want to stay home with Dalton.


    "Alright, you cane with me," Brenna said.


    After all, Patrick wasn''t familiar with Dalton. The fact that he had obediently slept in the same room with Daltonst night was already quite considerate of him.


    "Remember, while I''m lecturing, you need to sit quietly in the audience. Don''t wander off. If you get lost, I might not be able to find you," Brenna said.


    "Okay," Patrick said, delighted, and they headed to the dining room to have breakfast together.


    By nine o''clock, Brenna was driving to the Harper Group headquarters. She parked the car and retrieved arge box from the trunk. The box contained a car model she had designed for her lecture.


    With the backpack slung over her shoulder, one hand carrying the box and the other holding Patrick''s, Brenna


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    Chapter 165 She Already Has A Child


    briskly entered the Harper Group building


    The first floor was extravagantly decorated, with a distinct modern, technological feel.


    Behind a one-meter-high reception desk stood four young receptionists, two men and two women.


    "Hello, wee!" said one of the female receptionists warmly.


    "I''m Brenna Harper, here to give a lecture today. You probably have already been informed of this," Brenna said.


    The receptionist nced at Patrick, who looked quite fashionable, dressed entirely in ck,plete with a backpack, sunsses, and neatly styled hair. He exuded a cool confidence.


    She smiled at him and said, "Hello there. You are pretty handsome."


    Patrick grinned and charmingly winked at the receptionist. "Hello, Miss. You''re so beautiful."


    The receptionist said, "Thank you."


    Brenna felt somewhat resigned, pondering where Patrick had picked up such behavior. It seemed that any time he encountered an attractive woman, he would eagerly introduce himself. Just yesterday, while they had been out, he had even added two young girls on WhatsApp.


    The receptionist said warmly, "Miss Harper, the lecture is on the thirty-third floor. Is this your son? He''s quite


    the charmer!"


    Before Brenna could correct her, a male receptionist interjected, "What are you saying? Miss Harper is our chairman''s daughter, and she''s not married."


    The female receptionist quickly responded, "I''m sorry, Miss Harper. I was unaware of that."


    Brenna just nodded, not particrly bothered by her words earlier.


    She then led Patrick towards the elevator.


    On the way, Patrick curiously asked Brenna, "Mommy, does the Harper Group belong to your family?" Brenna nced around and noticed the receptionists staring oddly at them. She calmly said to Patrick, "You need to call me Brenna when we are outside. You can only call me Mommy when we are alone."


    She yfully tapped his nose. "Got it?¡±


    The female receptionist who had initially greeted Brenna captured this moment. She shared the photo with the Harper Group''s PR manager and also posted it in thepany''s internal group chat with the caption that read, "A trendy, cool, and confident little boy."


    The group chat, which included two thousand employees, was immediately filled with replies.


    Brenna had no idea this was happening. She took Patrick and rode the elevator with many people up to the thirty-third floor.


    Among the people were employees from the Harper Group, and a few quietly snapped photos of the two without them noticing.


    In thepany''s group chat, someone was stirring things up.


    "Isn''t that the chairman''s daughter? She already has a child?"


    21:37


    "Did she have a kid at eighteen?"


    "I heard that child call her ''Mommy''."


    "Wow, really?"


    "And she''s engaged to Mr. Mitchell, who doesn''t even know the child''s existence."


    This sensational news spread like wildfire across variouspany chats.


    In just a few minutes, everyone in the building was aware of the matter.


    Reaching the thirty-third floor, Brenna began setting up for her lecture when she noticed the audience''s odd looks and whispering.


    A young woman in a crisp white outfit approached Brenna on the stage and


    showed her something on her phone. "Miss Harper, there''s a situation."

 Chapter 166

    Chapter 166 Acknowledge Publicly That He''s Your S...


    Brenna looked up to see a strikingly young and attractive woman, likely in her early twenties. She had chestnut -colored wavy hair and wore a professional yet friendly smile, clutching a phone.


    "Who are you?" Brenna asked, sensing the woman was probably a secretary rather than an executive.


    Brenna was scheduled to give a lecture today, and the Harper Group was supposed to provide two assistants. Yet, as she nearedpletion of her setup, there had been no one from the Harper Group to wee her. It seemed unusual for such arge corporation, especially since she was the chairman''s daughter.


    Something felt off. Brenna''s gaze hardened as she studied the woman, who showed no signs of nervousness or remorse. There was even a slight hint of gloating in her demeanor.


    "I''m the special assistant to Mr. Harper. My name is Sabine Gordon, and Mr. Harper sent me to help you." Sabine introduced herself confidently, her eyes sharp, asionally flicking to Brenna''sputer screen, evidently waiting for something specific to disy.


    "You''rete," Brenna said inly, dismissing Sabine''s earlier mention of an issue and highlighting her tardiness.


    She confronted Sabine directly, saying, "You should have been here to greet me the moment I arrived at the Harper Group. Do you realize the inconvenience caused by your dy?"


    She then motioned towards herputer. "The equipment wasn''t even pre- tested. Is this what one shot? expect from Ernst''s special assistant?"


    Brenna''s voice was amplified through her microphone, making her voice audible to everyone in the room. The hall buzzed with whispers, painting the Harper Group employees as unprofessional.


    Still, some people felt sympathy for Sabine, thinking Brenna was being overly harsh to Sabine.


    Sabine, clearly upset, nced at her colleagues in the audience who appeared embarrassed for her.


    She hurriedly said to Brenna, "Miss Harper, there was an unforeseen dy, which caused myte arrival. I am addressing it urgently."


    She handed her phone to Brenna, disying several active chat groups within the Harper Group, buzzing with discussions about Brenna''s son than their work.


    A brief look of satisfaction shed across Sabine''s face as she anticipated Brenna''s reaction, eager to see how she would handle the revtions in front of the Harper Group''s engineers and guests.


    Brenna grabbed Sabine''s phone and quickly scrolled through the messages. As she did that, she found countless insults about her having a child out of wedlock, with some iming she had no right to give them a lecture. If her father weren''t the chairman of the Harper Group, those people might have even gone as far as


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    insulting her family.


    After scrolling through more messages, Brenna discovered photos of herself with Patrick.


    "Patrick,e over here," Brenna said to Patrick, who was engrossed in ying with his model.


    Patrick dashed over with enthusiasm. "Brenna, what''s up?"


    Despite his young age and focus on his toys, Patrick had overheard Sabine conversation with Brenna.


    "Look," Brenna said, holding up the phone for Patrick to see. "People are badmouthing us in the chat groups. Go


    deal with them for me."


    Patrick''s cheerful expression turned serious as he studied the screen. Even though he hadn''t officially started


    school, he could read most of the words.


    These people were saying bad things about Brenna; they were mean!


    Brenna was a good person. They shouldn''t have said something like that about her.


    Patrick nodded with determination and said, "I''ll take care of this!"


    Brenna ruffled Patrick''s hair. "I trust you! Solve this, and I''ll make you something tastyter!" she said.


    Patrick shook his head in excitement. "I don''t want something to eat; I want that model! It''s the best one I''ve


    evere across!" he said.


    Brenna looked at the car model on the table and gave a slight nod. "It''s yours, but you''ll have to wait till after my lecture to get it," she said.


    Patrick quickly agreed, checked Sabine''s phone for other chat groups, noted the software name and group details, and then hurried to use Brenna''sputer. His fingers danced across the keyboard, his face set in a serious and constrated expression, showcasing a surprising level of proficiency and focus.


    Sabine was unaware of Patrick''s capabilities. She couldn''t understand why Brenna wasn''t directly addressing the scandalous messages but instead was allowing a child to y with herputer.


    She asked disapprovingly, ¡°Miss Harper, shouldn''t you be finding a way to deal with this situation?"


    Brenna responded coldly, "These are the Harper Group''s work group chats. You''re a senior secretary here and supposed to coordinate my activities. Isn''t it part of your job to resolve such issues?"


    Sabine felt uneasy for a moment but quickly came up with a n. She said, "I''ve already sent people to address it. I was just wondering if you might want to exin. After all, the child does look like you. Maybe you could just acknowledge publicly that he''s your son. You are the chairman''s daughter; even if you have an illegitimate. child, people won''t criticize you too harshly."

 Chapter 167

    Chapter 167 Are You Going To Do Something About It


    "You handle this situation. If it isn''t resolved within ten minutes, don''t bother showing up to work at the Harper Group tomorrow," Brenna said firmly, leaving no room for discussion.


    Her assertive tone caused a stir among the onlookers, particrly those who had been spreading the rumors. They felt as though Brenna had caught them in the act, and their jobs were suddenly in jeopardy.


    There was a moment of hesitation in the room, followed by disapproving nces aimed at Brenna.


    Sabine, caught off guard, responded with defiance, "Miss Harper, even if you are the chairman''s daughter, you aren''t in charge of day-to-day operations here. Isn''t it overstepping for you to do that? If you really had the power to fire me, then anyone here could be next. Where do you get such authority?"


    Her tone grew almost confrontational by the end.


    Brenna realized that Sabine was not here to assist her but to provoke and undermine her.


    She retorted sharply, "Does addressing ipetence require special authority? The way you conduct yourself, one would think you were the CEO of Harper Group, not an assistant."


    Sabine was left momentarily speechless, unable to formte a counter.


    Brenna''s sharp wit was clear to everyone; it was no wonder even Ernst had been pushed out of thepany because of her.


    Brenna continued, "Leave. I don''t need your help. An assistant with such arrogance is not someone I want near me." With that, she turned away, her expression cold, and walked over to see how Patrick was doing.


    At the Mitchell Group.


    Neville rushed into Ethan''s office, a serious look on his face, holding up his phone for Ethan to see. "Mr. Mitchell, take a look at this!" he said.


    Ethan paused his review of a document and nced at the screen Neville was holding, which showed a chat history between Neville and his friend.


    This friend, Gerry Harrison, was a mid-level project manager at the Harper Group.


    Neville exined, "A friend of mine told me that several Harper Group employees are spreading these rumors like crazy in their group chats. Someone''s clearly pushing the story, boldly insisting the child is Miss Harper''s illegitimate son. Now everyone''s caught up in guessing who the father might be, and it''s doing real harm to Miss Harper''s reputation."


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    Ethan''s face hardened as he quickly thought of a n. "Get our PR team to hack into their system, disrupt these messages, and shut down their chat software to stop any further discussion on this matter, Delete all the leaked photos and find out who''s responsible for this situation."


    "Understood.¡± Neville exited the room with purposeful strides to carry out the tasks.


    Ethan''s expression hardened as he rapidly typed on his keyboard, swiftly gaining ess to a Harper Group chat


    group.


    As he read through the messages, he saw that most of the employees weren''t criticizing Brenna, they were just


    sitting back and watching the drama y out.


    Only a few were vocal in their criticism, using Brenna of abusing her status as the chairman''s daughter and criticizing her for allegedly bringing an illegitimate child to a significantpany event, thus damaging the


    reputation of the Harper Group.


    Ethan sifted through all the chat groups to pinpoint the individuals instigating the rumors.


    Convinced that there was a deliberate attempt to tarnish Brenna''s image, he took note of the IDs of the key


    agitators and sent them to Neville for further investigation.


    Who was behind the attempt to destroy Brenna''s reputation?


    Confirming whether Brenna had a child would''ve been simple, yet the one stirring things up didn''t bother to find out about the truth. Instead, they just boldly imed in the group chats that the boy was Brenna''s son.


    After a second review of the messages, Ethan called Neville, instructing him to monitor these troublemakers


    closely.


    After the call with Neville, Ethan then dialed a number decisively. "You have a son, and now he''s being targeted. Are you going to do something about it?"


    Jayceon, who had returned from Norview only the day before, had been grappling with his failures. He had spent thest few weeks fruitlessly trying to track down Ellie abroad, only to find she had returned: country ahead of him.


    He sat there feeling defeated, having gone over his failures more times than he could count.


    "What did you just say?" Jayceon sprang up from his chair, alert and focused on Ethan''s words. "Tell me where


    Ellie and my son are."


    Ethan sent him the photos of Brenna and Patrick.


    Immediately angered, Jayceon blurted out, "Aren''t these your fianc¨¦e''s photos? Are you messing with me?"


    "The child is yours," Ethan said calmly. "Brenna has been caring for your son."


    He had suspected the previous day that the young boy Brenna had brought along was Jayceon''s son. Patrick bore a striking resemnce to Jayceon''s childhood photos.


    Ethan and Jayceon had been close friends since childhood, and Ethan still had photos of them together from their younger days.


    "Head to the Harper Group building now." After saying that to Jayceon, Ethan also prepared to leave.


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 Chapter 168

    Chapter 168 Is Someone Secretly Helping Brenna


    In the hospital.


    Rosie was busy with her phone, reading through the Harper Group''spany chats. Managers were actively fueling discussions, and now, everyone at the Harper Group was aware that Brenna allegedly had a child out of wedlock and had boldly brought the child into thepany as though she wanted the whole world to see.


    Rosie felt quite pleased with how the executives had managed the situation. They had delegated the tasks to their trusted subordinates, considering that stirring controversy and tarnishing someone''s reputation were beneath them. It was enough to let the lower ranks handle it.


    She could hardly conceal her glee as she watched the drama unfold.


    Sylvie and Vivian, sitting beside her, shared in the amusement, pleased with the chaos they had created.


    Suddenly, a video call interrupted Rosie''s scrolling. She quickly answered the call, and the view from the 33rd-


    floor auditorium at the Harper Group filled her screen.


    The caller was Kennedi Myers, a mid-level manager in the Harper Group''s automotive design department. She was talented in design. She had risen through the ranks partly due to Rosie''s backing.


    "Miss Harper, have you seen the messages in the group chats?" Kennedi''s voice was filled with anticipation. She didn''t show her face in the video call. "This could be our chance to sabotage Brenna. If we can confirm s a child out of wedlock, you could make youreback to the Harper Group, and Mr. Harper might not...


    leave thepany."


    Rosie nodded in agreement. Ernst had had no choice but to step down from the Harper Group. Due to thepany''srge scale and the demands of his role, he was still waiting for a new president to take over.


    "Absolutely, this is our opportunity." Rosie observed the live feed from the auditorium and noticed Brenna adjusting the equipment by herself. Normally, this would be handled by staff members of thepany, but no one had stepped forward to assist Brenna.


    That meant there were quite a few people who were dissatisfied with Brenna. Rosie, quietly pleased, still wasn''t satisfied. She wanted to make things more difficult for Brenna.


    She said, "Once Brenna begins her lecture, start asking tough questions. And don''t end the call; I want to see


    everything."


    Rosie was confident that she would humiliate Brenna this time.


    Sylvie, who was nearby, gave a sly smirk. "Rosie, has Mr. Mitchell found out about this yet?" she asked.


    Rosie paused to think for a moment. "Probably not."


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    She then shed a cunning smile. "What do you think Ethan would do if he finds


    out about this? Would he end things with Brenna immediately?"


    Vivianughed softly. "End things? After all Brenna''s efforts to make Ethan fall for her, she won''t let him go


    easily."


    Resting her chin in her hand, she sarcastically said, "Do you think Brenna would give up her own son to get


    Ethan back?"


    Sylvie quickly agreed and said, "Absolutely. For her, a child might be a small sacrifice for the chance to be with


    Ethan."


    Their attention then shifted back to the screen, where the little boy was busily typing away at theputer.


    Vivian expressed her confusion, saying, ¡°Brenna was the star of Harper Group''s automotive designpetition.


    Clearly, she''s smart. So why is she letting a child use herputer? Doesn''t she worry he might identally


    reveal something she doesn''t want to reveal?"


    Sylvie nodded, a thought suddenlying to mind. "Rosie, did you send them that photo I edited?"


    Rosie watched the little boy, noting his serious demeanor; he didn''t appear to be simply ying. Something


    seemed off, but she remained silent. After all, what significant harm could a young child cause?


    Was he ying games on theputer?


    That had to be what he was doing.


    Rosie replied, "Yes, I sent it. It will appear on the first slide of Brenna''s PPT."


    Meanwhile, at the Harper Group auditorium, Kennedi was monitoring the employee chat groups when she suddenly found she could no longer send messages. And all prior chat history had disappeared, leaving behind only a gray screen. When she scrolled up, everything from the day-including messages, photos, and files-was


    gone.


    She quickly said to Rosie, "Miss Harper, something''s wrong. It looks like the chat groups have been hacked."


    Rosie was also in one of the Harper Group''s executive chat groups, where the management team was intensely debating the matter about Brenne and the boy. This smaller executive group consisted of about four hundred


    people.


    She tried to view earlier messages in the executive chat only to find they had also disappeared.


    "What''s going on? Is someone secretly helping Brenna?" Rosie was in disbelief, staring at the nk messages,


    unable to send new messages.


    Vivian remained unfazed. "It''s fine. Just upload the matter to some external sites."


    Sylvie backed the suggestion enthusiastically, saying, "Yes, and make sure to pay for top cement on the trending lists!"


    Rosie''s expression darkened. She couldn''t determine who might be assisting Brenna, but she was sure it


    couldn''t be Ethan.


    After all, Ethan was arguably the most embarrassed by the matter and should be the most upset.


    Rosie sent the manipted photo to Sylvie and Vivian, instructing them to


    promote it widely.


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    She then dialed Ethan''s number.


    "Ethan! Something major just happened. Brenna has been lying to you!" The


    moment the call went through,


    Rosie rushed to report the news to Ethan.

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    Chapter 169 I Apologize To You On Behalf Of The...


    Ethan heard Rosie''s voice and instantly remembered how she had persistently targeted Brenna since her return to the Harper family, even going as far as hiring thugs to harm her.


    Could Rosie be the one orchestrating the current situation?


    This seemed highly likely.


    Ethan treaded carefully, his voice far gentler than it usually was with Rosie as he asked, "What exactly happened? No rush. Just tell me how Brenna deceived me."


    Rosie''s face lit up with a triumphant grin, sensing Ethan was unaware of the news. She saw an opportunity to drive a wedge between Ethan and Brenna and probably make them break up.


    She quickly said, "Ethan, you need to hear this. Brenna has a son about six years old. She brought him to her lecture at the Harper Group today. Everyone saw him call her ''Mommy'', and they acted very close. Ethan, Brenna has been deceiving you all this time. You can''t trust her."


    Ethan stayed calm and steady behind the wheel as he spoke to Rosie. "That''s not possible. Brenna wouldn''t do something like that. Do you have any real evidence?"


    Rosie sensed Ethan''s skepticism and continued, "I''m no longer at the Harper Group, but I still have contacts there. They saw Brenna with the boy in the lobby, and he called her ''Mommy''. That''s proof enough"


    Even with the so-called evidence Rosie provided, Ethan still couldn''t shake the feeling that she might be the one pulling the strings behind the matter.


    He responded coldly, "I should ask Brenna about this directly. This isn''t something to take lightly."


    Rosie, buoyed by what she interpreted as a shift in Ethan''s stance, said, "Think about it, Ethan. If that boy isn''t her son, why would he publicly call her ''Mommy''? If she wasn''t his mother, why would she allow him to call her that? It''s clear-that boy is her son. He looks about six, which means she had him before she was eighteen. She doesn''t deserve to be in the Harper family. I''ll speak to my grandfather about having her kicked out of the


    family."


    Just then, another thought crossed her mind. She added, "Ethan, it''s honestly terrifying. Brenna''s incredibly sly She has probably been scheming her way into the Harper family for years. And now that she has epted your proposal, who knows what else she''s after? Maybe the Harper family isn''t enough for her-she could be setting her sights on the Mitchell family next. Ethan, you can''t let yourself be fooled by her."


    Ethan couldn''t help but chuckle lightly. "Rosie, you''ve spun quite a story from just a little boy''s presence. You really do know how to let your imagination run wild."


    Rosie was caught off guard by Ethan''s response. "You still don''t believe me? I''m telling the truth. Brenna has a


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    son. I''m not using her without proof! My parents will be furious when they find out about this Now I see why she tricked me into that bet with my brother. She''s after the Harper family''s fortune She''s so maniptive! I am no match for her."


    "Enough. That boy is not her son," Ethan said firmly, ending the call. He was now convinced that Rosie was the one orchestrating this drama.


    His face hardened, a wave of disappointment settling in his eyes. Rosie, theagh a Harper herself, wasn''t hoping for understanding or truth; she was waiting for Brenna to fall, eager to watch her be torn down.


    Rosie quickly called Ethan back.


    Curious about what she wanted to say, Ethan answered the phone.


    Over the call, Rosie said, "I''m going to inform my parents and brothers of this to prevent Brenna from giving her lecture and tarnishing the Harper family''s name. Ethan, you should rethink your engagement to Brenna, perhaps find someone else to fulfill the marriage agreement between our families. I''m sorry for this mess. I apologize to you on behalf of the Harper family."


    Though she apologized, her expression was twisted with a grin.


    Ethan responded with skepticism, "Have you really looked into this? Why are you rushing to conclusions?"


    Rosie raised her voice as she said, "I know you are smitten with Brenna and want to believe her, but she has really crossed the line this time. It''s inexcusable. I''ll suggest that my parents issue a public apology-to the


    public and to you."


    Ethan ended the call with finality, tired of Rosie''s baseless usations of Brenna.


    In the auditorium.


    Ernst ended his conversation with Rosie and walked onto the stage, his gaze cold as he looked at 6.


    Patrick.


    Patrick, his delicate features lit up with a bright smile, finished what he was doing and called out, "Brenna, it''s


    done!"


    Ernst, visibly upset, said, "Brenna, using a young child in your schemes-how disgraceful!"


    Brenna had just finished fixing the equipment after she had spotted signs of tampering¡ªsomeone had added things that clearly didn''t belong. Luckily, she had noticed it before it could cause confusion or lead to any


    trouble.


    She fixed Ernst with a cold stare. ¡°What exactly are you saying?¡± she asked.


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    Brenna frowned, clearly annoyed by Ernst''s careless actions, as he scolded her without grasping the full


    situation.


    Ernst had once led the Harper Group as its CEO. How could he act so impulsively like this?


    As Brenna maintained herposure, Ernst''s frustration intensified. He scrutinized the young boy beside her, noting a resemnce to his friend Jayceon during his youth. The boy''s features looked a lot like Jayceon.


    Could it be possible that Brenna and Jayceon had crossed paths years ago, resulting in this child?


    But reconsidering the scenario, he dismissed the idea. Jayceon wasn''t the type to be involved with someone like Brenna, who had been merely a pawn in the Barrett family''s games before. Besides, Jayceon wouldn''t have allowed Brenna to endure such hardships within the Barrett family if he had been together with Brenna.


    After mulling it over, Ernst decided it was unlikely the child was Jayceon''s. The resemnce must be


    coincidental.


    What truly disappointed him was his belief that Brenna had secretly had a child and kept this hidden from the Harper family, only revealing the child''s existence after cementing her status in the family and securing shares.


    He saw her actions as maniptive, using the Harper family for her own gain.


    The more Ernst pondered, the angrier he got. He confronted Brenna before the assembled crowd, yelling, "Are you still pretending you don''t understand what''s going on?"


    Despite her irritation, Brenna knew she had to remainposed due to the public setting. She responded to Ernst with a cold and dismissive tone, "Pretending? What exactly are you talking about?"


    Ernst''s gaze shifted to the boy with a mix of repulsion. It wasn''t the child he disliked but rather the fact that the child was born out of wedlock with an unknown background. Regardless of the child''s appearance or intelligence, Ernst found it difficult to feel any warmth towards him.


    He said sharply, "Who did you have this child with? Your actions are disgraceful. Not only having a child out of wedlock but also unting him publicly? You''ve tarnished our family''s reputation. Do you think just because our parents and grandparents support you, you can do whatever you like?"


    Brenna chuckled lightly, reassuringly patting Patrick on the head. "Who told you he''s my child?" she said.


    Patrick moved protectively in front of Brenna. Although small, his demeanor was resolute. He had long sensed Ernst''s hostility toward Brenna and didn''t see him a good person.


    With a puzzled frown, Patrick asked, "Godmother, who is this man? And what does any of this have to do with him?"


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    A wave of warmth rose in Brenna''s chest because of Patrick, though it stung that Ernst, her own brother,


    refused to trust her.


    Brenna replied, "This is my older brother. He is part of the Harper Group''s management team and currently


    holds the position of CEO."


    Ernst was stunned. "Godmother?"


    Suddenly, he thought of something, and his frustration intensified. ¡°Brenna, this is disgraceful! You use a child in your act. You have the audacity to have a child, yet you won''t even let him call you Mom in public? Do you


    think you can deceive me with this act?"


    At that moment, a woman in a beige suit approached confidently, microphone in hand. Her wavy hair and makeup were perfect. She was Kennedi, looking every bit the part of an elegant and precise woman in her thirties, still on a video call with Rosie.


    Without hesitation, Kennedi confronted Brenna, saying, "Ms. Harper, a question for you. You had a child out of wedlock, correct? Given his age, you must have been under eighteen when you had him. With that level of shamelessness andck of integrity, what gives you the right to lecture truly gifted individuals here? Do you honestly believe you''re worthy of doing something like this?"


    Her usation reflected the sentiment of many in the audience.


    After finishing her words, she lifted her chin with confidence, standing upright as if she were the very symbol


    of justice.


    By this time, the auditorium was filled with people, and a hush fell over the crowd as they awaited Brenna''s


    response.


    Ernst found Kennedi''s words echoing his own thoughts. He moved toward the microphone and addressed the


    audience.


    "Hello, everyone. Brenna is my sister, and she has made a mistake. I want to apologize to you all on her behalf. Today''s lecture has been canceled. I''m truly sorry!"


    Brenna was furious. She faced Ernst and said, "You haven''t even heard my side of the story. Why are you so quick to judge? What proof do you have that this child is mine?"


    Ernst was fuming,pletely overtaken by his anger. He snapped at Brenna, no longer able to hold back, "The child is standing right here. Back in the lobby, he called you Mommy in front of a crowd. Isn''t that all the proof anyone needs? Honestly, I''m ashamed on your behalf!"


    Patrick finally grasped the situation. Stepping forward, he gestured toward the microphone. ¡°Hand it over. I need to speak," he said.


    Ernst, visibly annoyed but trying to maintain control of his anger, replied, "Boy, this isn''t your fault. You''re innocent. It''s your mother''s mistake."


    Patrick, too short to reach the microphone, grew anxious as his small voice was unable to reach everyone in the


    auditorium.


    Brenna intervened, leading Patrick slightly away. She said, "Mr. Harper, one should be careful with their words. Let me rify: this child is the son of a friend. I''ve been closely involved in his life when he was little, so he


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    sometimes calls me Mommy. Please don''t jump to conclusions."

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    Chapter 171 Did You


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    Ernst said sarcastically, "Oh really? Then why did he call you ''Mommy? Do you think we''re all fools here? Who would let their child call someone else ''Mommy''? You must be the child''s mother, don''t pretend you are not?"


    Shepard, having been informed by the secretary that Ernst was causing a scene and making things difficult for


    Brenna, hurried to the auditorium.


    "You fool! How can you distrust your own sister like this?" Shepard scolded Ernst sharply, his disappointment evident. If not for Ernst''s future role as leader of the Harper Group, Shepard might have been even harsher to


    him.


    Ernst turned to look at him, surprised. "Dad, why are you here? I''ve got this under control You don''t have to


    do anything."


    Shepard was seething with anger as he red at his son. "Under control? By shaming your sister in front of everyone and causing her public embarrassment? Is that how you handle things? You don''t believe a word she said. Enough of this!"


    Patrick, seeing the trouble he had inadvertently caused, felt guilty. He pulled on Brenna''s sleeve and whispered, "Brenna, I''m sorry if I''ve made things difficult for you."


    Brenna reassured him with a gentle pat on his head. "Don''t worry, Patrick. I can handle this," she sa


    Kennedi, who had questioned Brenna earlier, now fell silent, worried about being fired with the chairman in the


    auditorium.


    On the video call, Rosie was still pushing her agenda. "Keep pressing Brenna. She hasn''t really answered your question. Don''t back down. I''ll help you if anything bad happens."


    Kennedi hesitated. Seeing Shepard''s undeniable support for Brenna, she decided not to escte things further.


    She said to Rosie, "Miss Harper, let''s not pursue this further. Brenna has already stated that the child is her


    friend''s son."


    Rosie urged her, saying, "It''s okay; just keep asking her about the matter. Ask her if she made Ernst and me sign a betting agreement to guarantee this child inherits the Harper family''s assets. And ask her who the father of the child is."


    Kennedi reluctantly followed Rosie''s directive.


    The room fell into a stunned silence as everyone turned their attention to Kennedi''s continued questioning. Ernst''s expression grew colder as he listened, and he turned to Shepard, speaking with seriousness. "Dad, don''t let Brenna fool you. She intentionally brought this child here today. It seems like a calcted


    move.


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    Perhaps my forced resignation from the Harper Group was orchestrated by her and the child''s father. We need to stay vignt and not fall for her tricks. She already owns four percent of the Harper Group''s shares and has a say on the board. We must be careful about this."


    Shepard recognized that having so many people target Brenna today was clearly nned, and he knew he


    couldn''t be fooled by it.


    He suspected that Ernst might be orchestrating this to reim the CEO position. This filled him with deep


    disappointment.


    "Brenna already told you the boy is her friend''s son. Were you not listening?" Shepard said sharply.


    Ernst responded, "You believe her lie?"


    Remainingposed, Shepard retorted, "You say that is a lie. Do you have any proof?"


    "It''s not a lie!" Just then, a voice echoed from the hall''s entrance.


    Everyone turned to see Jayceon, dressed in a champagne-colored suit, entering with Ethan right behind him.


    These two were well-known figures, often featured on the covers of financial and fashion magazines. Everyone


    in the room recognized them.


    Their arrival stirred excitement among the audience.


    Jayceon quickly approached the stage and knelt before the boy, his smile widening. ¡°You''re my son! I''ve finally found you. Where''s your mom?" he said.


    Patrick stared at the man before him, momentarily stunned. Jayceon was strikingly handsome, exuding charm and nobility. His pleasant voice and kind nature created an undeniable pull in Patrick, making him want to be


    near him.


    "Are you my dad?" Patrick asked.


    "Yes," Jayceon responded, lifting Patrick into his arms and moving toward Ernst. "Ernst, please don''t misunderstand your sister. This boy is the child I had with another woman. Brenna is merely a good friend of


    his mother."


    He chose not to disclose more without the child''s mother''s permission. Ernst''s frown deepened, clearly irritated by his friend''s unexpected interference. Jayceon had openly. contradicted him in front of everyone, leaving him humiliated. Turning to Brenna with a stern look, he asked, "Why didn''t you rify this earlier? Why let everyone here


    misunderstand?"


    Brenna''s expression grew even colder as she said, "I told you from the start that this child isn''t mine; he belongs to a friend of mine. Did you believe me?" Everyone in the room heard their conversation and believed Jayceon. However, Kennedi, not satisfied with letting Brenna off the hook so easily, seized the microphone and spoke again. "Miss Brenna Harper, there''s talk that you crafted a betting agreement with Mr. Ernst Harper and Miss Rosie Harper to secure control over the Harper Group''s shares. Now that Mr. Ernst Harper has stepped down from the Harper Group, are you nning to take over thepany as CEO? Do you really think you have the


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    Chapter 172 I Want Her Reputation Ruined


    Kennedi was growing anxious. Rosie had repeatedly assured her that Brenna''s presentation would include a scandalous photo, yet the first slide disyed an elegant car design.


    The photo Rosie had spoken of was nowhere to be found.


    Through the video call, Rosie also noticed what was happening on the screen. She quickly grabbed another phone and made a call, demanding answers.


    The technician on the other end was just as flustered, confused as to why the photo wasn''t showing up even after being properly uploaded.


    "It seems our system has been hacked," the technician said, working urgently to resolve the issue. But the hacker''s skills were far too good, leaving him unable to take back control.


    Rosie, frustrated, ended the call with a curse.


    On the stage, Shepard took the microphone, his demeanor grave as he addressed the crowd, saying, "Regarding the agreement, I need to rify a few things. The Harper Group isn''t just my family''s legacy; it''s hard work of tens of thousands of our employees. It''s through their shared efforts that thepany has it on the


    reached its current sess. That''s a fact no one can deny, which is why, as the chairman, I belie.. it''s important to address the recent shift in leadership."


    After a pause, he continued, "Even though this situation involves my own family, it has a direct impact on the Harper Group as well. Two months ago, my daughter Brenna was finally found after being missing for years. She returned to the family. Many of you may have heard various rumors about her. Some im that my daughter didn''t even finish elementary school and is unqualified to work in car design. Let me set the record straight today."


    His voice turned serious. "Brenna graduated at eighteen from a renowned university in Norview with dual master''s degrees in finance and mechanical design. She is an internationally recognized award-winning designer, which refutes the ims about her educational background. Still, there are those who refuse to believe it, iming her credentials are fabricated and even casting doubt on whether her awards are real."


    After a pause, he added, "That''s why her siblings agreed to a wager. If Brenna secured first ce in the Harper Group''s automotive designpetition, Ernst would willingly step down from the management team and hand over his shares to her. My niece, Rosie, is also bound by this agreement. Both my father and older brother were present as witnesses, and their signatures gave the agreement full legal weight. Brenna didn''t rely on any tricks or maniption. It was a straightforward wager between her and siblings, and now, they''re obligated to respect the result."


    Shepard then gave Ernst a sharp look.


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    Ernst, feeling resentful and embarrassed, looked at Brenna and then at Jayceon with anger. Knowing Jayceon well, he understood that Jayceon would not just acknowledge a child as his own without proof.


    "I''m sorry," Ernst said to Brenna before he turned and left the stage, not once ncing back.


    Kennedi found herself at a loss, realizing that the situation had reached a conclusive end. With the chairman''s clear statements, she had no basis to continue questioning Brenna.


    She had quietly taken her seat, handed the microphone back to the staff, and sunk into her chair, feeling utterly embarrassed.


    On the video call, Rosie was still urging Kennedi, "Why are you hesitating? Ask if Brenna had a rtionship with Jayceon, and if he used the Russell family''s power to hide the truth about her illegitimate child! Ask if Brenna is the woman who had the child with Jayceon."


    At that moment, Kennedi felt like Rosie''s voice was sting through the speakers for everyone to hear.


    Once she caught on to what was happening, she looked up and saw her phone screen projected across therge disy, Rosie''s private words echoing for everyone in the room to hear.


    The big screen showed Rosie''s contorted face and her jealous demeanor.


    Kennedi was shocked. She frantically tried to end the call but found that she could no longer control her phone.


    "Stop talking!" Kennedi said in a shaky voice, trying to alert Rosie to the disaster unfolding, but Rosie was oblivious to the situation.


    Rosie said, "Why should I stop? Brenna took my shares and left me with nothing. Why should. etaliate? She deserves this! I want her reputation ruined..."


    Kennedi, her hands trembling, turned her phone''s camera towards therge screen, showing Rosie the live feed


    of her rant.


    Back in her hospital room, Rosie kept criticizing Brenna until she suddenly saw herself on the big screen. "What''s happening? Why am I on the screen? Kennedi, what have you done..."


    Only then did Rosie grasp the gravity of her situation. She nervously tapped on her phone but was unable to


    end the video call.


    Brenna, observing this from the stage, remainedposed. With the unfolding events, there was no need for


    her to exin anything. Everyone now understood the situation clearly. "Rosie, apologize!"


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    Chapter 173 Where Is Your


    Mother


    Sylvie grabbed Rosie''s phone in a swift motion and darted into the bathroom, where she turned on the faucet and submerged the device, finally ending the video call.


    Back in the hospital room, Rosie seethed with rage, her hands trembling from the chaos that had unfolded. "What a bunch of imbeciles! They couldn''t manage a simple task, and now, I ampletely exposed!" she eximed in anger.


    Sylvie''s eyes shed with shared animosity towards Brenna. "You assured us of their reliability, didn''t you?" she said. "Yet, they failed in carrying out your n."


    Meanwhile, Vivian, who always seemed to maintain a cooler demeanor yet harbored a particrly deep-seated vendetta against Brenna, recalled her mortifying episode at the Imperial Bar. She had been coerced into drinking tainted alcohol, embarrassing herself in front of the Morrison family. Her parents and grandparents had been utterly disappointed in her, and her position at thepany had been sidelined.


    Vivian''s sharp voice cut through the mounting tension. "Didn''t you all notice it? Rosie was unable to disconnect the call earlier," she said. "Ethan and Jayceon have rallied to Brenna''s defense. Considering the powerful allies she''s gathering, of course we failed in targeting her."


    Rosie''s fingers tightened around the nket, her frustration palpable as she said, "It''s exasperating! That woman has amassed a crowd of supporters, turning me into aughingstock. We can''t just stand by and let Brenna triumph over us. What''s our next move?"


    Vivian responded with a calmness that contrasted sharply with Rosie''s agitation, "The tide isn''t in our favor. We need to retreat for now


    and avoid making more people angry at us."


    However, Rosie''s defiance shone through her frustration. "I don''t care about that! Even after being ousted from the Harper family, I''m more than capable of handling ordinary people. I want to see who''s bold enough to confront me," she said.


    With a firm expression, Vivian said, "Calm down, Rosie. We must recognize that public sentiment currently sways toward Brenna. It''s imperative we maintain our silence for now."


    Sylvie, determined not to back down, proposed another n, saying, "Why don''t we let someone else handle it? I''ve heard that the person from the Hewitt family is about to return. Brenna might find that person a formidable opponent."


    Their expressions morphed into crafty,plicit smirks at the idea.


    Rosie let out a cold snort. "You are right. I won''t let Ethan end up with Brenna. The Hewitts hold a level of influence that the Harpers wouldn''t dare to challenge."


    Meanwhile, at the Harper Group building, Patrick seemed reluctant to leave.


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    His wide, pleading eyes were locked on therge car model disyed on the table.


    Jayceon was trying to usher Patrick to leave quickly, nning to take him to find Ellie. However, it was clear that his son didn''t want to leave now.


    Brenna quickly gauged Patrick''s attachment to the car model and said to him, "After my lecture, I''ll give you this model, okay? Why don''t you leave with your dad for now and let me finish up here?"


    Patrick nodded, his small face lighting up with a smile.


    As they exited the auditorium, Ethan turned to Jayceon, offering a genuine smile. "Well, it looks like you''ve just gained a son."


    Jayceon, however, couldn''t bring himself to return the smile. The weight of his family''s turmoil pressed heavily on him. Soon, the world would know of his newfound son, and the implications of that revtion were far from simple.


    The child''s arrival meant a shift in inheritance rights, and Jayceon feared that few would wee him with open arms. Doubts would inevitably arise regarding the child''s identity, and there would be no shortage of people eager to challenge it.


    "Thank you this time," Jayceon said to Ethan, his voice heavy with gratitude. He then bent down to meet


    Patrick''s gaze, asking gently, "Where is your mother, Patrick?"


    n before


    Patrick''s eyes remained fixed on Jayceon, his heart swelling with joy at the presence of his father. He had longed for this moment and, now that it was here, there was no doubt in his young heart that thi


    him was truly his father.


    "She''s at Bayview Apartments," he replied obediently.


    Jayceon''s heart softened as he looked at the boy. He said, "Alright, let''s go see your mom now."


    Ethan watched Jayceon leave, his emotions a mix of frustration and determination. He couldn''t fathom why Ernst, Brenna''s brother, had targeted her like that. Determined to uncover the truth, he made his way directly


    to Ernst''s office.


    The atmosphere around Ernst''s office was tense, charged with an eerie silence that belied the storm brewing inside. Outside the office, the secretaries huddled together, their whispers filled with curiosity as they tried to eavesdrop on the heated discussion inside.


    Inside the office, Shepard was having an argument with Ernst.


    The secretaries, who had been with thepany for years, had never witnessed such a scene before. They were so focused on what was happening inside the office that they barely registered Ethan''s arrival.


    Ethan paused at the slightly open door of Ernst''s office, hearing the muffled but intense exchange between Shepard and Ernst. He knocked firmly twice before pushing the door open and stepping inside.


    Inside, Ernst stood resolute by his desk as Shepard confronted him, his face etched with anger. "She''s your sister, Ernst. You stripped her of her dignity by questioning her publicly. Is this the right behavior of a brother? You let unfounded gossip sway your judgment instead of trusting her. Is someone who acts on hearsay without proof worthy of leading thepany as CEO? Who filled your mind with such nonsense?"


    Ernst''s expression was grim, marked by a dawning realization of his misjudgment. He had ced his faith in


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    Rosie, believing she was above spreading falsehoods. Now, confronted with the reality that Rosie had manipted him into this debacle, he understood the gravity of his mistake. Now, he not only needed to leave. thepany, but his reputation within the Harper Group was also tarnished, with colleagues whispering about. his harsh treatment of his own sister.


    Ernst''s voice was devoid of warmth as he spoke. "You don''t have to say more. I''ll just step down and leave the


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 Chapter 174

    Chapter 174 Can''t We Just


    Move On From This


    Shepard swallowed his frustration, gave Ethan a curt nod, and strode out of the CEO''s office.


    Outside, the secretaries in the adjacent office quickly retreated to their desks and refocused on their work, avoiding any sign of curiosity. Only a younger secretary couldn''t hide her concern. She was Sabine.


    Her phone streamed Brenna''s internal live broadcast. On the screen, Brenna remainedposed, her graceful demeanor unshaken by the earlier confrontation. She continued exining a car modelponent as if nothing had transpired.


    Sabine wasn''t truly watching the live broadcast. Instead, she strained to pick up any sounds from inside the CEO''s office.


    But the thick walls and closed door left her with nothing. She was particrly worried about a possible confrontation between Ethan and Ernst.


    She made her way to the pantry, brewed two cups of coffee, and set off toward the office, using the delivery as an excuse to check the situation inside.


    In the office, Ernst leaned back in his chair, irritation flickering in his gaze as he regarded Ethan. "Are you here to confront me, too?" he asked.


    Ethan pulled out a chair and sat down across from him. He could see Ernst was already on edge, ulwiming to discuss what had happened in the auditorium. Still, he needed to understand why Ernst had acted the way he had.


    "I''m not here to confront you," Ethan said evenly. "I just want to know the reason you did that. Brenna is your sister. Even if the child is hers, calling her out in public like that was unnecessary. You could have spoken to her in private about the matter. What you did isn''t like you, Ernst."


    Ernst let out a dry chuckle, unimpressed. ¡°You im you''re not confronting me, yet you''re already passing judgment.¡±


    His mind was overwhelmed with questions about why Rosie had lied to him. Did she take him for a fool?


    He needed answers. But he had been unable to reach her by phone. So he nned to visit her at the hospitalter.


    Still agitated, Ernst said to Ethan, "I get it-you''re trying to defend Brenna, keep her from facing humiliation. I''ll im responsibility for what happened today. The handover will bepleted soon, and I''ll step away from the CEO position."


    Ethan smirked slightly, recognizing that Ernst was still harboring anger toward him. "Let''s focus on what''s important. Did Rosie ask you to go after Brenna?" he said.


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    Ernst''s eyes narrowed as he studied Ethan. "Are you nning to retaliate against Rosie for Brenna?" he asked.


    Ethan noted the change in Ernst''s demeanor, knowing he was right about this. Rosie had been behind the matter. He asked, "Did Rosie also call you? Was it Rosie who told you Brenna had brought a child to the Harper Group?"


    Ernst didn''t respond immediately. Instead, he scrutinized Ethan, well aware of how fiercely he protected those


    he cared about. After what had happened to Brenna earlier, there was no doubt that Ethan was angry about the


    matter. And knowing Ethan, Ernst believed he would likely seek revenge for Brenna.


    Ernst hesitated before speaking, his tone cautious. "What exactly are you going to do? Rosie has already suffered enough. She has been cast out of the Harper family and has forfeited her shares. Now, after the car ident, she''s lying in a hospital bed, badly injured. Do you really need to add to her misery? Brenna only faced some minor grievances-nothing serious. In fact, all this attention has only boosted her reputation."


    Ernst looked at Ethan, irritated as he noted how fiercely Ethan was defending Brenna.


    "Think about it," Ernst continued. "Brenna hasn''t lost anything. You''re not seriously considering going after Rosie, are you? Seeking revenge over this? Rosie has known you since she was a child. Are you really going to


    be so cruel to her?"


    Ethan''s expression turned icy. "We''ve been friends for years, and I never took you for someone who can''t tell right from wrong. So, just because someone''s scheme failed, we should not hold them responsible and just let them off the hook? You should see the ws in your logic."


    The room was thick with tension until a soft knocking disrupted the silence. Ernst''s expression eased slightly


    as he said, "Come in."


    Sabine stepped inside, bncing two cups of coffee. As she set them down, she discreetly observed the two men. She could see whatever they had been discussing wasn''t pleasant.


    As just a secretary, she knew better than to interfere. Without a word, she ced the coffee on th


    turned to leave.


    Ethan was a familiar visitor at the Harper Group whenever he came to see Ernst, so Sabine had long memorized how he liked his coffee.


    She didn''t go far after leaving the office. Pausing by the door, she lingered, ears pricked for any snippets of


    conversation.


    Inside, Ernst sighed, his voiceced with resignation. "Rosie is already in a pitiful state. She realizes her mistake. You really should forgive her."


    Ethan''s expression remained calm. But Ernst knew his friend too well. The calmer Ethan seemed, the angrier he actually was.


    Ernst added, "I''ll speak to Rosie about thister. There''s no need for you to be involved. Brenna is fine, isn''t she? I''ll apologize to her properly andfort herter. Can''t we just move on from this?"


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    Ethan was perplexed by Ernst''s stance. He said, "Brenna is your sister by blood. She endured so much suffering in the Barrett family before. Now that she''s back with the Harper family, why aren''t you more supportive? Instead, you''re aligning with Rosie to go against her."


    Ernst shook his head, his tone full of conviction. "You think Brenna had it hard? What about Rosie? Brenna at least still has her parents. Even during her toughest times with the Barrett family, she wasn''t deprived of basic necessities and her parents'' love. Rosie, on the other hand, lost her parents young. Do you have any idea what it''s like to depend entirely on the goodwill of others to live? Rosie never shared how that felt with you, did she? She had to please everyone just to ensure she wasn''t thrown out. She has never felt secure."


    After a pause, he continued, "Look at her now-she''s been kicked out of the family, hasn''t she? Forced by Brenna to the point where she can''t even call her foster parents Mom and Dad anymore. Don''t you think Brenna is taking things way too far? To me, Rosie is the one who deserves sympathy. Ethan, I can''t understand you, either. Rosie has been part of your life since childhood. Yet, the moment Brenna came along, you were quick to propose to her. What does Brenna have that Rosie doesn''t?"


    Ernst''s voice grew heated as he said, "Rosie''s actions are driven by fear of losing what she has. If you had just agreed to marry her, would she still have feltpelled to act out like this?"


    Ethan''s expression hardened, his disagreement evident. "Losing her parents is no excuse for he. target Brenna," he said.


    Ernst, feeling a mix of frustration at Ethan and sympathy for Rosie, said, "I never thought you''d be so cold. Rosie grew up alongside you, yet here you are, siding against her."


    Ethan decided further discussion was useless. No amount of reasoning seemed enough to sway Ernst from his


    protective stance towards Rosie.


    Standing up, he said firmly, "As a man, I will stand by the person I love."


    Without another word, he turned and left.


    With one final attempt, Ernst raised his voice and shouted, "Just forgive Rosie this time!"


    Ethan continued on, not turning back or responding.


    Shortly after Ethan had left, Sabine entered the office, her expression filled with concern. She approached the CEO''s desk. "Ernst, you shouldn''t keep doing this. Rosie has targeted Brenna time and again, and now, she''s just facing the consequences. You''ve defended her more than enough. You don''t owe her anything. It''s time for you to ignore Rosie and make things right with Brenna. Maybe then you won''t have to leave the Harper Group." She saw Ernst sitting silently, his gaze distant. Approaching him, she gently cradled his head, soothing him.


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    "Brenna fighting back isn''t unjust. Rosie simply met her match," Sabine whispered. Despite knowing this, she had continued to handle Ernst''s affairs,


    often taking actions against Brenna without his direct order


    She harbored no regrets, even if it meant crossing Brenna.


    Ernst remained silent, eyes closed.


    Regardless of what Sabine advised, he had his own thoughts on the matte


    Their moment was interrupted by a knock. Sabine quickly adjusted her posture, stepping away from Ernst as the door opened.


    Nelson Courtenay, a secretary, stepped inside, fully aware of Sabine''s rtionship with Ernst yet acting as though he didn''t have a clue. Suspecting they might be in the middle of something personal, he had paused briefly after knocking before making his way in.


    "What''s the matter, Nelson?" Ernst asked, his voice weary.


    "Mr. Harper, Mr. Shepard Harper has requested Sabine''s presence in his office," Nelson said politely and then


    exited.


    Sabine''s face clouded with worry. Being summoned by Shepard likely meant she was about to face serious repercussions. She had been responsible for handling Brenna''s lecture, and her handling of it had been grossly negligent. Company policy dictated that she might face severe consequences, with the lightest being a public reprimand and loss of bonuses. The worst oue could be possible dismissal and industry cklisting.


    "I''m afraid my days as your secretary here are over," she said to Ernst.


    Join my ownpany. After what happened, it''s unlikely any otherpany will hire you." Ernst was aware of the consequences Sabine was facing. Taking a deep breath, Sabine left for the chairman''s office.


    When she entered, she found it crowded with about twenty people, all involved in the incident against Brenna


    Included in this group were four individuals who had conspired with Rosie.


    It was surprising how quickly Shepard had found out they had been involved in the matter.


    Sabine, despite herself, couldn''t help but feel a sense of admiration.


    Shepard, visibly upset, was sitting there with a dark expression. He didn''t waste time on pleasantries.


    He said, ¡°Don''t assume I''m clueless about where your loyalties lie, who''s really pulling the strings, what you''ve been up to, and the underhanded things you''ve pushed your team to carry out. I''m aware of it all."


    He directed his ire at a senior executive at the forefront of the group, throwing a stack of documents at him. "Look at what you''ve done!"


    The executive, one of the people who had met with Rosie before, went pale. His hands shook while he flipped the documents, which showed the chat history of him asking his people to target Brenna.


    He had never imagined that the private conversations on his phone would be exposed like this.


    The shock left him speechless, and cold sweat streamed down his face.


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    Thepany had long been split into various factions, with inrental pyn wat chairman was fully aware of it, but as long as the executives continued seneng in sets to R


    look the other way.


    This was the first time the chairman was behaving like this


    "I''m sorry. I messed up," he said, and after finishing reading the documenre, the goosed them so


    next to him.


    Rmended for you

 Chapter 176

    Chapter 176 You Don''t Deserve Her Forgiveness


    Marco Boyd, the sales department manager, had built a solid reputation for his ster performance. His impressive results earned him a generous year-end bonus, and he was widely seen as an essential pir of the sales team. He led a high-performing group of salespeople whose efforts brought in major profits for thepany. The vice president in charge of sales thought highly of him.


    He thought that all he had done was encourage a few of his subordinates to stir up some trouble and didn''t think it was a big deal. Little did he know, he had gotten himself into serious trouble.


    Bypassing thepany''s CEO altogether, the chairman took matters into his own hands-a clear sign that the newly acknowledged daughter of the Harper family wasn''t as irrelevant as Rosie had made her out to be. It was now painfully obvious that the chairman adored her and would go to great lengths to protect her.


    Now, he deeply regretted his actions. Helping Rosie had been an act of loyalty, nothing more. He hadn''t gained a thing from it. And now, he was in trouble because of this.


    He believed his luck couldn''t have been worse.


    Mr. Harper, please forgive me. I know I made a terrible mistake," he begged Shepard, his voice trembling with desperation. He even thought of dropping to his knees.


    Another manager, Bobbi Sugden, who was around his age and had elderly parents and young children to look after, saw his chat records in the documents and was filled with regret. His face turned pale, and he was too stunned to speak.


    Bobbi wiped the sweat from his brow, the full weight of his mistake finally sinking in. He should never have trusted Rosie. After all, Brenna was Shepard''s biological daughter. How could a niecepare to that?


    Winning first ce in a designpetition was enough proof of Brenna''s talent. And even if she wasn''t the most talented, it was clear that the Harper family cherished her deeply.


    He had been a fool for going against Brenna.


    He dropped to his knees and said, "Mr. Harper, I was wrong. I swear I''ll never make that kind of mistake again


    I let ambition blind me. I''m willing to offer a personal apology to Miss Brenna Harper."


    With trembling hands, he passed the documents to the manager from the design department named L


    Hinchcliffe.


    L had been the most proactive, taking the lead in targeting Brenna earlier. He had even gone so far as to offer financial incentives to encourage others to insult Brenna, sharing photos of her with Patrick to stir up


    trouble.


    At just 28, L was handsome, young, and incredibly skilled. When Rosie worked at the Harper Group, she


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    had treated him way wa


    His loyalty to kod 1 Gap, and he would do anything for her Unlike the others, L hader''s realized his fistake and w** **** *


    As L fipped through the documenta, kis frustration bolled over


    In an attempt to justify his actions, he said to Shepard, "Mr. Harper, Miss Brenna Harper is so young, and she doesn''t have the qualifications to give a lecture to us. A lot of people werk already unhappy about her giving a lecture. And then, she brought that child who calls her Mommy. That''s what sparked the reaction. You can''t


    me us for that "


    Shepard scoffed, his eyes narrowing as he fixed t with a cold gare. He said, "That''s no excuse for attacking my daughter. I have already contacted the police. They will be here soon, and these documents will be handed over to them to determine your crime. You won''t be working at the Harper Group anymore. You


    are


    all fired!


    Angrily, he finished speaking and waved them away,


    A wave of fear rippled through the group, many of them dropping to their knees before Shepard in panic.


    Sabine was motionless, her mind struggling to grasp what she had just heard.


    Shepard had always been kind to his employees, often dining with them and asking for their thoughts on thepany, showing a genuinely friendly attitude. This was the first time Shepard had ever fired members of management so ruthlessly.


    Sabine was gripped by despair. Being fired was one thing, but ending up behind bars was something she


    Couldn''t bear


    She said, "Everyone, listen to me. Let''s go apologize to Miss Harper and beg for her forgiveness. We w offer herpensation. Let''s ask her not to get the police involved, alright?"


    Her words were met with immediate support.


    "Yeah, let''s go apologize to Miss Harper. We don''t want to end up in jail."


    "Stop right there!" Shepard stood up abruptly, his voice cold andmanding "You don''t deserve to go anywhere near my daughter. When you plotted this, what were you thinking? You are not idiots. You knew attacking her would damage her reputation, and yet you did it anyway. You don''t deserve her forgiveness."


    With her face flushed with indignation, Sabine stepped forward and said, "Mr. Harper, Miss Harper''s actions led to misunderstandings. Didn''t we have the right to voice our own opinions?"


    Marco frowned at Sabine, thinking she was only making things worse by refusing to admit her mistake. He knew she had a rtionship with Ernst, and even if she left the Harper Group, she could still rely on Ernst. But what about him? He was afraid of being cklisted from the entire industry.


    Desperation crept into his voice as he said to Shepard, "Mr. Harper, I don''t share her views. I realize I was wrong I''m willing to issue a public apology in thepany''s group chats. Please don''t fire me, Mr. Harper."


    Bobbi dropped to his knees and crawled to Shepard''s feet. "Yes, yes, I am also willing to publicly apologize. Please don''t fire me, Mr. Harper. I have elderly parents to care for and young children depending on me. I swear I''ll never make such a foolish mistake again."


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    As they spoke, they quickly pulled out their phones, hastily typing up apology messages and posting them for


    the entirepany to see.


    Others followed their lead, and slowly, Shepard''s stern expression softened a


    little.


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    Chapter 177 I Swear I''ll Make You Pay For It


    The clock struck twelve, and Brenna had just finished her final presentation when a group of people approached from the sides of the stage. They arranged themselves in a straight line, facing the audience.


    Marco spoke first, leading the group in apologizing to Brenna in front of everyone.


    "Miss Harper, I am sorry. I''m Marco Boyd, head of the sales department. In our group chat, I crossed a line with myments about you, and it wasn''t right. I recognize my mistake and am asking for your forgiveness.


    Something like this won''t happen again."


    In truth, Marco wasn''t entirely sincere. His apology was driven by the fact that he was unwilling to lose the high sry and generous year-end bonus he could get working at the Harper Group. He knew he wouldn''t earn this


    much elsewhere.


    He had mortgages for a car and a house to pay and a family to support, including his wife, children, and elderly parents. The thought of losing his job was unbearable.


    He finished speaking and respectfully bowed to Brenna.


    One by one, his colleagues followed suit, also apologizing to Brenna.


    Brenna, ever gracious and mindful of the public setting, chose not to hold a grudge.


    With a calm tone, she said, "I forgive you all."


    Brenna didn''t want to say much to those who had hurt her. She quickly gathered her things and left.


    Although many hade forward to apologize, L had not. He had refused to apologize to Brenna and had been taken away by the police.


    Leaving the auditorium, Brenna stepped into the elevator and found herself face- to-face with Sabine. They were the only ones in the elevator.


    Sabine''s expression was cold as she shot Brenna a sharp look, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "Miss Harper, it must feel like a victory, having so many people apologize to you in front of a crowd. Congrattions on restoring your reputation publicly."


    Brenna immediately recognized the sarcasm in Sabine''s tone. She asked, "Does that bother you?"


    Sabine let out a derisiveugh, clearly mocking Brenna. She replied, "Bothered? Hardly. In fact, I admire you, Miss Harper. Everyone who tried to undermine you failed miserably. We''re simply not in your league. By the way, I must ask, is Ernst actually your brother?"


    Brenna suddenly realized that Sabine had feelings for Ernst. Otherwise, why would she confront her for him?


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    "What does that have to do with you?" Brenna asked, an edge in her tone.


    Sabine''s face flushed with anger as she locked eyes with Brenna. "Miss Harper, given that Ernst is your brother


    and leads the Harper Group, how could you so easily push him aside for your own benefit? You are so selfish!


    You should have been able to endure a little grievance and not made Ernst leave thepany. Do you realize the loss his departure means for thepany? He''s an exceptional CEO, and you''ll never match his


    achievements, no matter how hard you try."


    With a quick movement, Brenna''s hand struck Sabine''s cheek, and her words followed sharply. "An exceptional CEO? I''m sorry, but your standards must be set pretty low. If he can''t tell the difference between truth and lies and is so easily influenced, it''s not fitting at all to call him ''exceptional''. I think he is as foolish as


    you!"


    Brenna was very angry. "It''s no surprise he has been taken advantage of; he is surrounded by foolish people like you."


    Her voice turned cold. "You were aware of that agreement he signed, weren''t you?"


    Sabine''s face turned pale as unease swept over her. She had, after all, been the one to push Ernst to sign that


    agreement.


    "Ernst''s current situation is partly your doing," Brenna said.


    With a hardened gaze, Sabine admitted, "Yes, I was aware of the agreement and supported Ernst signing it because I believe you are not fit to lead the Harper Group! Ernst asked for my coboration with you today, but I intentionally overlooked it. I even rigged the projector to ruin your image with apromising photo, but unfortunately, it failed to disy..."


    A trace of bitterness tinged her voice. "You''ve got some luck on your side! But don''t think I wil easily. You''ve tarnished Ernst''s name, and I swear I''ll make you pay for it."


    Without a word, Brenna held up her phone, showing Sabine the ongoing recording of their conversation.


    In a desperate attempt, Sabine lunged to grab the phone from Brenna.


    However, Brenna skillfully avoided her grasp and swiftly pinned her against the elevator''s wall.


    ou off


    Just then, the elevator chimed, and its doors slid open to reveal two police officers who stepped inside and immediately handcuffed Sabine.


    Panic gripped Sabine as she eximed, "Brenna, this is low, even for you! Calling the cops ahead of time for something so trivial? How petty can you be? I''ve apologized to you already. You can''t just refuse to forgive me."


    Brenna watched coldly as the officers escorted Sabine out. Afterward, she stepped out of the elevator and walked toward the chairman''s office.


    At the hospital.


    Ernst stormed into Rosie''s room, his eyes zing with fury.


    Caught off-guard, Sylvie and Vivian exchanged anxious looks, turning their attention to Rosie.


    Upon seeing Ernst''s enraged demeanor, Rosie instantly grasped the gravity of the situation. She said, "Ernst, please, let me exin-"


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    But before Rosie could finish speaking, Ernst''s hand struck her face repeatedly, his anger remained intense as he struggled to regain hisposure.


    Watching the scene unfold, Sylvie and Vivian were horrified, seeing a side of Ernst they had never imagined possible. To them, Ernst had always been the gentle brother to Rosie, but today, he was different.


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    Chapter 178 The Choice Is


    Yours


    Ernst had intentionally lingered by the door, eavesdropping for a while before entering. He had overheard Sylvie and Vivian plotting with Rosie on how to deal with Brenna next.


    His hand had clenched tightly around the doorknob as he used all his strength to keep his anger in check.


    Now, he red at Sylvie and Vivian with such intensity that it seemed like he might rip them apart. Terrified, they huddled together, fearfully watching him, afraid he mightsh out physically. They stepped back a couple of paces, trying to keep a safe distance from him.


    Ernst''s stare was razor-sharp. He flung a stack of documents at Rosie''s face and eximed in anger, "Look at what you have done!"


    Rosie was frozen in shock, unable to process what had just urred. She cupped her face, staring at him in disbelief. The same Ernst who had always been gentle with her had just struck her.


    Tears began to stream down her face. Once she realized it had truly been Ernst who had hit her, she struggled to ept the reality.


    Ernst''s anger was consuming, and his eyes burned with an intensity she had never seen before.


    As Rosie snapped out of her daze, it quickly dawned on her that Ernst had uncovered something serious. Her eyes dropped to the scattered documents strewn across the bed.


    The documents contained chat logs from the day before involving several senior executives. Some messages came from thepany''s executive chat, others from the management group, and there were also conversations with their staff, all urging their teams to stir up trouble.


    Rosie flipped through the pages in disbelief, her fingers trembling. Among them, she found a private message from Sabine, reporting back to her on the progress of their ns to target Brenna.


    Rosie couldn''t bring herself to meet Ernst''s eyes. Her hands shook as her mind scrambled for a way to defend


    herself.


    Sylvie and Vivian picked up a few of the documents. With each page they turned, their expressions grew more shocked. Their carefullyid ns to sabotage Brenna had been exposed.


    The two exchanged a nce, silently agreeing not to confess to anything.


    From their expressions alone, Ernst could tell they were the ones behind the entire scheme.


    "Rosie, you have truly let me down. I always thought you were just acting out because Brenna''s return stole some of the spotlight you were used to. I assumed you were just a little envious. But I never imagined you would go so far as to fabricate lies, to scheme with the intent to destroy Brenna''s reputation. When did you


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    be so malicious?" Ernst said.


    Rosie began to avert her eyes, her gaze flitting nervously around the room. Finally, she mustered the courage to say, "Ernst, do you really believe Brenna is innocent?"


    Her voice cracked as fresh tears poured down her cheeks. She sobbed uncontrobly, overwhelmed by a deep sense of injustice that gnawed at her.


    She continued, "Ernst, do you even know how my leg got broken? My car was in perfect condition, sitting safely in the garage. I drove it just over two weeks ago without a single issue. But a few days ago, after Brenna forced me out and stole my shares, the brakes failed the moment I drove my car! Just likest time. How could the brakes fail twice by coincidence?"


    She wiped her tears with a crumpled tissue, her voice rising with emotion as she pressed on with her usations. "And thest time, when all my clothes were shredded-that was her, too! Think about it. Who else in this family despises me that much? Who else could it be if not her?"


    Ernst''s expression darkened, his stare turning frigid. "You are still refusing to admit your own wrongdoing? Even if she did those things, ask yourself why. Do you think she just woke up one morning and decided to target you for no reason? Have you ever stopped to consider what you did to her first?"


    "No!" Rosie screamed, her emotions unraveling like a thread pulled too tight. "It''s all her fault! She never should havee back!"


    Ernst had assumed Rosie was simply acting spoiled, seeking attention and sympathy out of envy. He hadn''t expected her to be this stubborn and misguided. He said, "She is my sister! Why shouldn''t shee back?"


    real family, Rosie eximed, "So now you think she is your sister? Then what about me? What am I? Am I not your family? You are a hypocrite! Get out! Get out of my sight! I never want to see you again. You guys are and I''m just the outsider, destined to lose everything to Brenna! I guess I deserve it!"


    "You are unbelievable!" Ernst scoffed, thoroughly disappointed. He grabbed a few documents and shook them at her. "Stop trying to change the subject. I just want a straight answer. Did you do this?"


    Rosie''s defiance crumbled instantly. "Yes, I did it..."


    A fleeting look of regret crossed her face, but it vanished just as quickly. In the very next second, she said defiantly, "But so what? Isn''t she fine? Why are you making such a big deal out of this? Why are you so angry? She hasn''t evene here and confronted me!"


    Ernst let out a heavy sigh, realizing she was beyond saving. "My father has already contacted the police. They have copies of these documents. L refused to admit his wrongdoing or apologize, so they arrested him. As for the other executives, they publicly apologized to Brenna in front of over two thousand people after her lecture, and she chose to forgive them. Because of that, the police didn''t arrest them. If you are willing to record a public apology video, you might avoid jail time. The choice is yours."


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    Chapter 179 Let''s Get Through This First


    Ernst mmed the door behind him as he stormed out.


    In the hospital room, Rosie furiously ripped the documents containing the chat records to shreds as anger boiled inside her.


    She shredded the papers with reckless force, flinging the scraps across the room while shouting at the top of


    her lungs.


    At that very moment, Sylvie''s and Vivian''s phones buzzed almost simultaneously. Their brows furrowed as they checked their screens. Their expressions immediately changed.


    A breaking headline shed across Shirie''s news app: "Harper Group Executive L Hinchcliffe Arrested on Charges of Defamation."


    Vivian and Sylvie were utterly stunned. Ernst hadn''t been exaggerating to frighten Rosie. He had been telling the truth just now!


    Vivian turned ghostly pale as she handed her phone to Rosie. "Rosie, look at this."


    Rosie stared at the screen, speechless. She shook her head in denial, but the fury in her eyes only deepened. Vivian knew Rosie didn''t want to face reality and give up, but there was no way around it. They had failed, and the only thing left to do for Rosie was to own up to her mistake and apologize.


    "Rosie, you have to issue a public apology. If you don''t, you might actually end up behind bars," Vivian said.


    Sylvie nodded and said, "She is right. Rememberst time when you hired Jay to frame Brenna? We went to great lengths to get Ernst to help you. But this time, I don''t think he will help you. He is really furious, Rosie."


    "No!" Rosie shrieked, her frustration boiling over. "I would rather rot in prison than apologize to Brenna! Why should I apologize to her? What has she ever done to deserve my apology? Our n was wless! It was supposed to work! How did it all fall apart?"


    Rosie refused to ept this, her tears falling as defiance burned in her gaze. Vivian was the most level-headed and strategic among them. Despite the chaos unfolding, she had already mapped out a n to help Rosie.


    She said, "Just trust me on this. Apologize to Brenna online. As long as you can stay out of jail, we''ll have plenty of opportunities to settle the score with herter. Let''s get through this first."


    But Rosie was as stubborn as a mule. She t-out refused to post a public apology video. Instead, she kept borrowing Sylvie''s phone and logging into her ount to check the messages in the Harper Group''s chat


    groups.


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    The employee and executive groups were all muted. Each group had over twenty messages sent by the Harper Group''s executives and a handful of employees. Every message came from a different person, each issuing a public apology to Brenna.


    Even Sabine, one of Rosie''s closest allies, had posted an apology. Her message was long and full of sincere words.


    "I am Sabine Gordon, head of the CEO''s secretary department. During Brenna Harper''s professional seminar, I was assigned to assist her. However, blinded by my own prejudice and jealousy, I failed to fulfill my duties. Worse yet, I spread malicious rumors within thepany, falsely iming that Ms. Harper had a child out of wedlock. I deeply regret my actions and offer my sincerest apologies to Ms. Harper for the harm I caused. I humbly ask for her forgiveness and a chance to make things right. Lastly, I must rify that I did not act on my own initiative. I was merely following the orders of Miss Rosie Harper..."


    The apologies from the others mirrored Sabine''s, each one shifting the me onto Rosie, iming they had acted under orders and not of their own will.


    The more Rosie read, the hotter her anger boiled. "Sabine used to follow me around like a puppy, always ttering me. And now, when it counts, she turns on me? They are all a bunch of traitors!"


    Vivian scanned the messages with a deepening frown. "Rosie, they are forcing you to apologize. They are all throwing you under the bus. Every employee group chat has these kinds of apology statements. At this rate, I don''t think you will be able to stay at the Harper Group for much longer."


    Sylvie was seething. "This has to be Brenna''s doing. She hasn''t been affected much, but she has pushed you s at the Harper into the spotlight. Now, everyone is turning against you. From the employees to the exec Group, they all see you as maniptive now. They know you have targeted Brenna. You havee the viin everyone loves to hate. Brenna''s sess is practically guaranteed now. Honestly, I wouldn''t be surprised if she ends up taking over the Harper Group in the future..."


    "Enough!" Rosie snapped, her frustration boiling over. She finally realized that Brenna had set her up with a calcted n designed to ruin herpletely and kick her out of the Harper Group for good.


    Such a ruthless n!


    How could she not have seen iting?


    "I''ll apologize!" Rosie blurted out, her tone sharp with sudden resolve. "However,


    I''ll make myself look like I was pushed to the edge. You two will help me write it. I want the public to know I didn''t do it on purpose. That Brenna''s just too overbearing, and I had no choice but to act that way."


    Sylvie and Vivian nodded in agreement, immediately pulling out their phones to begin drafting the apology statement for Rosie.


    In the evening, Brenna returned to the Harper family''s home, only to find Ernsting down the stairs, his face as cold as stone, with Dalton following behind him. They both seemed tense. It seemed like they had just had a heated argument.


    Brenna greeted them in a low voice, too drained from the day to concern herself with whatever disagreement that had just taken ce.


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    < Chapter 179 Let''s Get Through This First


    Ernst stared at Brenna for a moment. He had watched the live stream of her lecture earlier, and it was clear that she was truly a genius in automotive design, with many innovative ideas.


    "Let''s sit down and talk," he said atst, motioning toward the living room sofa. Brenna handed her things to Julia. "Please take these to my room."


    Once Brenna settled onto the couch, Ernst went straight to the point. "Fro now on, stop targeting Rosie. She has been kicked out of the family, had a car ident, and broken her leg. She has already faced the consequences of her actions."


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 Chapter 180

    Chapter 180 Br¨¦nna, Did You Do This


    Ernst''s tone was firm andmanding, bordering on threatening, as he spoke to Brenna.


    His overbearing attitude made her look at him with irritation.


    Brenna responded with a frown, "I wasn''t targeting her."


    Clearly annoyed by Brenna''s cold and cutting response, Ernst pulled out his smartphone, tapped it a few times, and ced it on the table.


    With a gesture towards the phone and a frown, he said, "Not targeting her? Then how do you exin the flood of negative attacks about her all over the web? You had someone do this for you, right?"


    His voice held a hint of usation, his face stern.


    Without even lifting the phone, Brenna just nced at its screen disying a forum page. Headlines screamed controversy concerning Rosie, drawing massive attention.


    "The Daughter of the Harper Family used of Paying for Defamation Against Her Sister."


    "Rosie Harper Allegedly Frames Her Sister over Illegitimate Child im in Inheritance Squ


    "Revealed: the Inside Story about the Daughter of the Harper Family Scandal Involving an Illegitimate Child..."


    Each post was a ma for views, soaring past the hundred-thousand mark.


    It was clear that these posts were all targeting Rosie.


    With a coldugh, Brenna''s expression hardened, unimpressed by Ernst''s usatory stance.


    Dalton, unable to hold back, finally interjected, "Ernst, isn''t this a bit much? Brenna was busy with the lecture at the Harper Group all day. When would she even have time to stir up trouble for Rosie online? Just look at the volume of posts-surely, you can see they''re in the thousands?"


    He also set his phone down on the table, disying the trending topics across various social media tforms. The ongoing dispute between the Harper sisters was topping the charts.


    With a forceful tap on the table, he said, "Take a look at what''s trending. Do you really think Brenna has the time to generate this kind of buzz online? Ernst, you ought to gather some solid evidence before hurling usations at Brenna."


    He continued to defend Brenna, saying, "You''ve always been sympathetic towards Rosie, given her tragic loss of her parents. However, that doesn''t excuse her for consistently targeting Brenna. People are talking about the matter because it is severe; Rosie schemed to harm her own family. If the negative attention is too much for you, Ernst, perhaps you could consider paying to have the posts removed."


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    Chapter 180 Brenna, Did You Do This


    Dalton''s face was unmistakably marked by anger.


    Ernst fixed a cold, using re on Dalton, displeased with his interference.


    He said, "I didn''t ask for your opinion, Dalton. Stay out of this. Brenna, did you do this?"


    Brenna quickly realized that Ernst was here specifically to confront her.


    "It wasn''t me. I spent my entire day busy with the lecture at the Harper Group," Brenna replied.


    Ernst dismissed her exnation with a skeptical snort. "Really? Then who''s behind this? I''ve been trying to get these posts removed, but they just keep reappearing. It''s relentless, and even attempts to bury the trends have failed. Clearly, someone''s stirring things up. And you stand to gain the most from it. If not you, then who did


    this?"


    His stare was heavy with suspicion.


    Brenna responded with a scornful smile, "The public isn''t blind. They see who''s in the wrong. The continued presence of these posts only emphasizes the seriousness of Rosie''s misconduct. Yet here you are, questioning me. Perhaps you should be advising Rosie to refrain from such malicious behavior in the future."


    Ernst''s anger boiled over, his voice rising sharply. "Enough! I''m just asking you to show somepassion towards Rosie. Can''t you see? She has already lost everything. And now, you aim to destroy her reputation as well? Do you want to push her over the edge?"


    and


    "You are being so unreasonable!" Dalton could no longer contain his frustration. "Brenna is our sister, too, she has done nothing wrong. How could you say something like that to her? Rosie''s downfall was her own doing. Are you suggesting it is Brenna''s fault?"


    er, to feel sorry for


    Brenna fixed Ernst with a frosty stare. "I get your point. You''re asking me to go easy her. But remember how she turned on me, hiring Jay and a gang to harm me? Did she go easy on me then? And now, when her schemes fail, you me me for being too cruel? That''s just not fair! I''m not taking any of your suggestions."


    In response, Ernst''s hands balled into fists. He grabbed his phone, his eyes simmering with fury. "It''s clear you care more about gains than family ties, unwilling to endure the slightest loss."


    With a disdainful snort, he turned to leave.


    At that moment, Shepard and Giselle came back from their stroll, taken aback by


    the tense atmosphere among the siblings, not knowing what had happened.


    However, Shepard, knowing Ernst well, said, "Hold on. Before you go, I need to say something."


    Reluctantly, Ernst stopped and returned to his seat.


    In a serious tone, Shepard said, "Dalton, you need toe back to the family business now. You will step in as CEO of the Harper Group."


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 Chapter 181

    Chapter 181 Let Rosie Off


    This Time


    Dalton was taken aback and refused without a second thought. He said, "Dad, I still want to act. Don''t try to change my mind. We agreed from the beginning- Ernst would run thepany, and I could do whatever I


    wanted."


    He immediately regretted the harsh words he had aimed at Ernst earlier. His father''s stern expression made him uneasy.


    When he nced at Giselle, who remained silent, he realized his father wasn''t joking this time.


    Ready to get away quickly, Dalton turned for the elevator.


    "Stop right there!" Shepard barked. "Trying to run away again?"


    Dalton stopped unwillingly and quickly voiced a thought that had just urred to him. "Dad, you can''t just change your mind. We had an agreement... Moreover, I think Ernst has been doing well managing the Harper Group. Even if he made a mistake, shouldn''t he have a chance to fix it?"


    Feeling a little bad about what he had just said, he looked at Brenna.


    Brenna''s expression stayed calm. She had no intention of arguing and simply watched him quietly, waiting to hear what he would say next.


    Dalton felt cornered. "Dad, Brenna, how about this? Ernst epts the punishment and leaves the Harper Group, just like we originally agreed. But what if wepromise? Let him step away for just a year, and then give him a chance toe back to thepany. That would work, right?¡±


    Shepard wasn''t asking Ernst to step down merely because of the bet. He genuinely believed that Ernst wasn''t thinking clearly and that cing the Harper Group in his hands was far too risky.


    Even if he allowed Ernst to return to thepany in the future, he didn''t want him to be the CEO.


    Shepard said, "No. This isn''t up for debate. Wrap up your current projects and stop epting new scripts. I''ll handle things in the Harper Group for the next six months. After that, you are taking over thepany."


    Dalton turned to look at Brenna, and suddenly, his eyes lit up with an idea. Smiling broadly, he said, "Dad, how about letting Brenna take control of thepany? I hear she is doing a fantastic job running two studios, bringing in billions annually, even outperforming some Harper Group subsidiaries. She has a real talent for management. Why not let her take over?"


    He shed a triumphant smile, convinced he had juste up with the perfect solution.


    Shepard also recognized that. Despite being a woman, Brenna had demonstrated exceptional management skills and possessed a strong educational background. Her reputation within the Harper Group had also been


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    rising steadily recently.


    "Brenna, what do you say?" Shepard asked, genuinely open to the idea. After all, Brenna was a member of the Harper family and more than qualified to inherit the family business.


    Brenna let out a softugh. "Dad, not a chance. I''m too busy. I just took on a major project of designing a fighter jet for the Weapons Research Institute, and I''m also working on a new system."


    She dropped her trump card, effectively refusing Shepard''s suggestion.


    Everyone was shocked, but no one was more stunned than Shepard. He had always recognized Brenna''s talent in mechanical design, but he had never imagined she would be working on fighter jets.


    This was a matter of national significance. Shepard nodded vigorously, his gaze fixed on Brenna with a new admiration. "Brenna is by far the most aplished of all the Harper children!" he remarked.


    Giselle approached Brenna, sping her hand with excitement. "Yes, Brenna truly is the most capable. What you are doing now is very important."


    Then, she turned to Dalton, her expression stern. "You have said enough. Start preparing to leave the entertainment industry."


    Dalton pouted, clearly unwilling to ept his fate.


    After a long silence, Ernst finally spoke. ¡°I agree with Dad''s decision. I have made mistakes, and I''m willing to


    step down for a few years."


    Shepard gave him a firm pat on the shoulder. "You have several businesses under


    your management. Focus on managing those for now."


    "Alright," Ernst agreed with a hint of reluctance, though his tone remained respectful. ¡°Dad, I don''t have any other requests. I just have one thing to ask- please spare Rosie. She has been through a lot."


    Shepard let out a dry scoff. "When have I ever gone after her?"


    Ernst was rendered momentarily speechless by that. He didn''t know how to respond.


    He was stunned to discover that Brenna had connections at the national level. He had clearly underestimated


    her.


    A sense of inferiority crept in. However, he still saw Brenna as somewhat petty and vindictive.


    Even though Brenna and Rosie weren''t even in the same league, Ernst still felt Brenna should show a bit more grace and let Rosie off the hook.


    Turning to her, he said, ¡°Brenna, as your brother, I''m asking you to let Rosie off this time."


    Brenna''s gaze turned ice-cold as she met his eyes. "As long as she doesn''t cause trouble for me, I won''t make a move against her."


    Shepard''s anger red, his voice sharp as he said to Ernst, "You better make sure Rosie backs off. She has been like this since she was a kid-stubbornly determined to get whatever she wants, no matter the cost. You know that better than anyone."


    Though feeling frustrated, Dalton found himself agreeing with his father. "Yeah, we spoiled Rosie growing up. Ernst, you need to have a word with her properly. She needs to change her ways and stop targeting Brenna.


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 Chapter 182

    Chapter 182 Why Can''t I


    Have That


    Ellie woke upzily around six in the afternoon, finally dragging herself out of thefort of her soft bed. She had slept the entire day and was only woken up by hunger.


    Still wearing her pajamas, she walked into the living room, where the soft glow of the lights blended with the lively sounds of cartoons and quiet voices.


    She assumed that Brenna hade back with her son, speaking quietly to allow her to rest without interruption.


    Yawning widely, Ellie spoke in her typicalid-back style. "I''m starving! Got anything to eat?"


    Her curls were messy, and her nightgown hung loosely, the slipping strap unintentionally exposing more than intended.


    Jayceon was sitting on the couch in a casual jacket, happily munching on chips with Patrick.


    The table before them was a feast of snacks, all the kinds kids loved.


    Next to them, a collection of takeout bags from a fancy restaurant sat invitingly with the contents still steaming.


    When Jayceon saw Ellie enter the living room like that, his heart skipped a beat. His nerves tensed as he set his chips down, stood up, and moved toward her with anticipation.


    "Ellie!" he eximed, his voice brimming with excitement as he embraced her.


    Ellie, surprised by his sudden approach, responded with a cold attitude, "Who gave you permission toe


    here?"


    Jayceon had expected this reaction from her. Years ago, Ellie had left him because she had been angry with h and after all these years, her anger still hadn''t faded.


    With a mix of disappointment and remorse, he nced at Patrick and said, "Hey, Patrick, why don''t you head to your room for a bit? I need to have a word with your mom."


    Patrick, sensing the tension, offered a supportive nod to Jayceon before leaving. "You can do it, Dad!"


    As Jayceon acknowledged his son''s encouragement, Ellie had already gone to her bedroom and returned shortly after, now dressed in a more refined cotton- linen dress.


    The dress fell gracefully around her waist, giving her a sense of effortless yet striking elegance.


    Her hair, now neatly arranged, radiated a sophisticated charm that seemed to soothe Jayceon''s nerves. Approaching her with genuine regret in his voice, he said, "It was all a big misunderstanding seven years ago. That woman was someone my mother wanted to introduce to me. I never went to meet her, and I had no


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    Chapter 182 Why Can''t I Have That


    intention of getting engaged to her. She is married to someone else now. Ellie, can we move past that? We have a son together. Please, give me another chance. We can start over."


    Weak and starving, Ellie noticed the spread of food on the table. She figured Jayceon was probably the one who had bought it, so she had no appetite for any of it.


    She responded firmly, "I''m not here to fix things between us. I came back only because our son wanted to see


    his father."


    Jayceon reached out for her hand.


    Ellie avoided his gesture and walked straight to the kitchen, opening the fridge to find something she could


    cook.


    Jayceon followed her into the kitchen, his hand stopping the fridge door as he said, "Please don''t stay angry


    with me. So many years have passed, and I know it''s all my fault. If you need to punish me, do what you must,


    but don''t shut me out. I thought you might be hungry, so I ordered some food for you. Say whatever is on your


    mind or do whatever you need to do, but you should eat a little something first to regain your strength, alright?"


    He then retrieved the takeaway bags, carefullyying out the dishes on the dining table and arranging the


    utensils neatly.


    Ellie was indeed too hungry to refuse him and began eating without hesitation.


    Jayceon called Patrick over, serving him food and handing him the utensils, all while giving him a subtle signal.


    Patrick, not feeling very hungry, picked at his food, his attention more on helping Jayceon than on the meal.


    "Mom, today Dad and I went to the paintball park! He was the viin, and I got to be the special forces soldier. It was awesome..." Patrick was brimming with excitement as he showered Jayceon with praise, eagerly recounting their adventure.


    ncing at Ellie with hopeful eyes, he said, "Dad also got me a bunch of toys."


    Sensing Ellie''s displeasure, he hesitantly added, "Mom, shouldn''t we be a family and live together? Can we all sleep in the same room tonight? I want Dad to tell me a bedtime story."


    Ellie furrowed her brows and responded firmly, "Absolutely not."


    Patrick''s excitement faded into a sullen frown, his eyes welling up as he asked, "But why? He''s my dad, isn''t he? Other kids have both their parents together at home; why can''t I have that?"


    Encouraged by his son''s words, Jayceon quickly said, "Exactly, Ellie. We are a family, right? Shouldn''t we live


    together?"


    He met Ellie''s gaze boldly. "A father''s love is crucial for our son, right? You should think about what''s best for


    him..."


    Ellie shot him a fierce look. "Don''t use our son to make your case!"


    Patrick dropped his fork and, with genuine innocence, approached Ellie, asking, "Why don''t you want Dad to live with us, Mom? He is really nice."


    Ellie simmered with anger, shocked that after spending only a day with Jayceon, Patrick was already siding with


    him.


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 Chapter 183

    Chapter 183 Insults


    At the hospital, Sylvie had just equipped Rosie with a new phone and set it up with a SIM card.


    Rosie had barely started exploring social media and various online forums when her new phone began to ring. There was an unknown number on the screen.


    She quickly answered the call with a respectful tone. "Hello."


    "Is this Rosie Harper?" came a rather unfriendly voice from a young woman, with noticeable street noise in the background,


    Unsure who was on the line and considering it might be rted to work, Rosie remained cordial. "Yes, this is Rosie Harper, Who am I speaking with, and how can I assist you?"


    To her surprise, as soon as the caller confirmed who she was, her tone got even sharper. Sheunched into a tirade.


    "How could you act so disgracefully? You''re Mr. Harper''s niece, yet you lived in his home for years and even called him Dad. With their true daughter returning, your inability to ept her has led you to repeatedly attempt to harm her. You are so shameless!"


    After a pause, the caller continued, "You''ve gone as far as hiring thugs to harm her. What''s the problem? Can''t handle how much better she is than you? What right do you have to feel jealous? Try achieving greatness on your own. And to stoop so low as to fabricate tales of her bearing a child illegitimately? You''re utterly repulsive. Individuals like you don''t deserve to live. It''s a pity you didn''t die together with your parents before!"


    "Who is this?" Rosie demanded, her voice crackling with fury. She was being barraged with insults from this person, and she waspletely in the dark about her identity.


    Fuming, Rosie yelled back into the receiver, "Who are you to say something like that to me? I''m getting the police involved!"


    The caller on the line replied with increased arrogance, "Oh, you''re going to call the police? Go ahead! I''d like to see who they''ll end up taking away, given all your misdeeds!"


    Her words then quickly deteriorated into crude insults.


    Overwhelmed by anger, Rosie ended the call.


    Yet, within seconds, her phone rang again from another unknown number. Still reeling from the previous call,


    she answered the call in anger.


    "Who is this?"


    A young man''s voice shouted, brimming with hostility, "Just who do you think you are, challenging the Harper family''s true daughter? You should know your ce! You probably cursed your parents to death-"


    Rosie ended the call immediately, refusing to endure more insults.


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    "Do these people have nothing better to do?" she muttered in dismay.


    Just then, her phone rang with yet another call from an unknown number.


    Rosie decided against taking the call this time. Instead, she removed the SIM card to avoid further disturbances.


    What had she done to deserve this? Why were these people attacking her?


    Tears began to well up in Rosie''s eyes as Sylvie and Vivian tried tofort her. Rosie looked at her phone, now silent, and muttered, "How on earth did they get my number?"


    Both Sylvie and Vivian were equally baffled. They immediately started scouring the inte to see if there was any buzz about Rosie. Their search confirmed their fears: Rosie''s name was being dragged through the mud across various social media tforms and forums.


    While browsing, Vivian stumbled upon a shocking revtion. "Here it is! Someone posted your number online; the post has been shared over ten thousand times!"


    That exined the barrage of calls.


    Vivian reacted with indignation. "Someone has obviously leaked your number on purpose!"


    Sylvie, clenching her jaw in anger, said, "It has to be Brenna''s doing!"


    She continued to peruse social media, frustrated by the intrusion into Rosie''s privacy.


    Suddenly, she gasped, pointing at the screen, "Look at this! They''ve even posted about your hospital stay. Do you think they''lle here to cause more trouble for you?"


    Vivian expressed her concerns with a worried frown, saying, "I hope it doesn''te to that."


    Rosie, feeling pushed to the limit, responded in anger, "Let theme. I''m ready to face anyone who tries to cause trouble here."


    As darkness settled, Sylvie and Vivian remained uneasy. Vivian suggested, "Perhaps it''s safer if you don''t stay here tonight. If someonees here to harm you, it might be difficult for you to escape quickly with your leg in this condition."


    But Rosie felt secure in her family''s influence. "I''m a Harper; no one would daree here to harm me. It uney do, they''re signing their own death warrant."


    Reassured, Sylvie and Vivian departed after a while.


    Rachael came byter, bringing dinner for Rosie.


    The events of the day had taken their toll on Rosie''s appetite, and she managed only a few bites before pushing the food away.


    Just then, the door suddenly burst open. A man in a baseball cap stormed in, arge bucket in hand. He marched up to Rosie''s bed and said, "You''re Rosie, right?"


    Rosie didn''t notice what he was holding and simply nodded.


    A secondter, with a loud ssh, the whole bucket of scraps came crashing down over Rosie, soaking her from head to toe.


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    "Ah!" Rosie''s scream echoed through the room as she was suddenly covered in the foul mess.


    10 52

 Chapter 184

    Chapter 184 Should We Ask Miss Hewitt For Help


    Rachael stood frozen in shock as Rosie was soaked in foul-smelling waste. It took her a moment to process what had happened. By the time she did, the person responsible had already vanished down the hospital corridor.


    She was stunned, unable to move for a moment. She didn''t know what to do with Rosie, who was covered with filth now.


    Rosie kept screaming. Her voice drew a crowd of doctors, nurses, and patients.


    The young nurse and the older head nurse looked at her with apparent disgust. Neither of thern showed the slightest bit of sympathy. Two junior nurses lingered by the door, whispering as they pointed at Rosie.


    "So that''s Rosie Harper? Serves her right for being so mean."


    "Look at her now. That''s karma if I''ve ever seen it."


    Just then, the head nurse scowled and said, "Clean her up now. We''ll disinfect the areater. This is disgusting. What terrible luck for this hospital to have a patient like her. Get moving before the germs could spread!"


    A doctor showed up momentster but didn''t bothering any closer to Rosie to check on her. He took one look at her from the doorway and walked away.


    Rosie caught the stares from the other patients and their families gathered near her door. Their faces twisted with revulsion. She felt so filthy that, for a split second, she wanted to jump out the window. But she didn''t want to die just because of this.


    Some in the crowd recognized her since she had been treading online. One person quietly snapped a photo of her. Within minutes, it was online and spreading fast.


    On the top floor of the Mitchell Group building, Ethan had just returned from the conference room when Neville approached him with a tablet.


    Neville said, "Mr. Mitchell, as you instructed, we''ve circted the news about Rosie on social media and the major local forums. There are already hundreds of thousands of negativements flooding in."


    Ethan took the tablet and nced at the posts. His face remained expressionless. Neville couldn''t tell if the oue had met his expectations.


    After a pause, Neville continued, "Someizens, iming they''re driven by justice, have even found Rosie''s contact information and home address. Now-"


    Ethan gave a slight nod and raised a hand to interrupt him. "Got it."


    He looked uninterested in hearing the rest.


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    After a pause, he asked, "How''s that shipment of ours?"


    Neville replied, "It''s not good. The shipment was taken away. I''ve already contacted the Ward family, but they''re refusing to return it. They im it belongs to them. Our team in Norview tried negotiating with them several times, but they got thrown out and even beaten up by the Ward family. The Wards warned us that if we keep pushing, we''re asking for trouble."


    Ethan''s expression darkened. The shipment contained several tons of rare minerals vital to their operations. The materials were nearly impossible to source locally. He had spent years arranging for that cargo overseas. Now, before it even cleared the port, the Ward family had snatched it.


    Ethan said, "This won''t stand. That shipment is too important. Book me a flight to Norview. I''ll deal with this personally."


    ¡°Understood. I''ll book it now and go with you in the morning tomorrow." Neville looked at Ethan, waiting for his response. This trip was dangerous. The Ward family held serious sway in Norview. Their power made them nearly untouchable there.


    He added, "I''ll also have our bodyguards ready. We''ll head there together."


    Neville paused for a moment, images of past encounters with the Ward family flickering in his mind. The Ward family members were ruthless and had strong ties in both military and political circles. Reiming the


    shipment wouldn''t be easy.


    After a moment''s hesitation, he asked, "Should we ask Miss Hewitt for help?"


    Ethan frowned. "Only if we''ve got no other option. She''s like a leech, impossible to shake off. I don''t want to cowe her any favors. The Hewitts might be powerful, but we''re not weak."


    Neville nodded in resignation. He knew how stubborn Ethan could be. The man never wavered, except when it came to Brenna. With her, he always seemed more patient.


    Neville said, "Alright. I''ll get everything ready."


    Ethan acknowledged with a nod, then reached for his phone to call Brenna.


    Brenna was sketching designs on herputer, working on a fighter jet''s outline. Dissatisfied with the design, she kept changing it.


    When her phone rang, she put it on speaker. The sound of Ethan''s deep, steady voice pulled her out of her slump. Just hearing him made her spirit lift.


    "Have you eaten?" Ethan gently asked.


    Brenna replied, "Just finished eating. What about you?"


    After some casual chatting, Brenna ended the call with Ethan. She set her phone down, then noticed the flood of notifications lighting up her screen, all tied to the Harper Group and Rosie.


    "Who''s helping me get revenge? They''ve posted so many negative things about Rosie," Brenna muttered with a sneer while clicking through the posts.


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    She noticed every one of them mmed Rosie for her malicious actions, yet not a single one mentioned her


    name.


    Brenna kept scrolling, scanning hundreds ofments. Still, no one brought her


    up.


    While she was caught up in reading thements, her phone rang again. This time, it was a call from Rosie.


    The second she answered, Rosie''s voice exploded through the speaker.


    "Are you behind all that trash about me on the inte?"


    Rmended for you

 Chapter 185

    Chapter 185 Her Sess Is


    All Thanks To Us


    Brenna listened to the furious voice on the other end of the line, easily picturing Rosie''s seething expression.


    With a soft chuckle, she said, "So it was you who started that rumor in thepany group chats about me having a child out of wedlock?"


    Rosie answered without missing a beat, "Yeah, it was me. But so what? Tell me, were you behind those online posts attacking me?"


    "Shouldn''t you be apologizing to me now? Why are you confronting me like this?" Brenna stayed calm, unaffected by Rosie''s yelling.


    Rosie was already convinced that Brenna was responsible for the matter, but there was little she could do about it. "Apologize to you? And why should I do that? I''m the real victim here; I''m the one getting torn apart online!"


    Brenna remained unbothered, "Suit yourself. I don''t care about the matter anyway."


    After saying that, she ended the call without hesitation and promptly blocked Rosie''s number.


    Rosie gritted her teeth in frustration. She remembered that Isabe had been the one who had started all of this and angrily dialed Isabe''s number.


    Isabe was having dinner with the Barrett family, discussing how to revive their declining fortunes..


    Alec and Mack had been pouring their energy into reviving the Barrett Group''s automotive division. Ever since Brenna left the Barrett family, they had hit rock bottom. Long-time clients disappeared, new ones were hard to find, and the meager trickle of current orders barely covered wages. They were not making a profit


    Growing frustrated, Alec shot a sharp look at Isabe. "Isn''t Denis fond of you? Why can''t he throw more orders our way? These few orders we are getting aren''t even making us enough money to pay the staff. If this continues, we will go bankrupt."


    Mack said, "Exactly. The Wagner family also has an automotive division. We would be fine if only they could spare us a fraction of their business."


    Isabe bristled, irritation ring beneath her polished exterior. Ever since she got involved with Denis, she began looking down on the Barretts, believing theycked the refinement and power of true high society. Her father and brother had no business acumen and were incapable of steering the Barrett Group to greatness.


    She felt unlucky and couldn''t help butpare her situation to Brenna''s. While Brenna had walked away from the Barrett family and found herself thriving in a top-tier family, she was stuck watching her family go down. The Barrett Group was falling apart, and the only thing she could do to keep thepany from going bankrupt was to please Denis.


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    She felt overwhelmed by the relentless pressure from the Barrett family. She felt like they were leeching off her.


    She said, "You talk as if it''s that simple. The Barrett Group deals in low-end products. The Wagner and Harper fam¨ªlies operate in high-end industries. Even if they wanted to send us orders, we wouldn''t have the capacity toplete the orders."


    Frustrated, Alec scolded his daughter, shouting, "What kind of attitude is that? Don''t forget that you are not even married to Denis yet! You only have our family''s support now. You are nothing without us!"


    Alec let out a heavy sigh, his eyes fixed on the news article on his phone. It was about Brenna teaching a prestigious masterss for top designers at the Harper Group. Shaking his head, he muttered, "If we had


    known Brenna was this talented, we should have treated her better. Just look at her now, giving a masterss


    to top-tier designers. She is impressive. She owes it all to our family." Isabe rolled her eyes, irritation creeping into her voice. "What''s the point of singing her praises? Her sess has nothing to do with you. She is the Harper family''s daughter now. And despite everything she has achieved, she hasn''t lifted a finger to help our family. In fact, I think she resents us and probably wishes for our downfall!"


    Ruby huffed in disgust, saying, "What an ungrateful person she is! We raised her all these years. Our family is struggling while she is thriving now, and she hasn''t shown an ounce of gratitude toward us."


    Isabe couldn''t help but feel that her parents were delusional. She said sarcastically, "Gratitude? Why would she be grateful to our family? If anything, she is probably happy that we are in such a state now. Do you even know what Rosie said about her?"


    The Barrett family turned toward her with interest, eyebrows raised. Alec asked, "What did she say?"


    Isabe sneered, her disdain for the Barrett family growing stronger. She said, "Rosie said Brenna is actually hoping for our family to go bankrupt and even had her friends steal our orders. The Barrett Group''s current state is entirely her doing. And yet, you still speak highly of her? It''s so absurd."


    Ruby immediately said, "Exactly! Don''t forget how the Harper family treated us at Brenna''s wee banquet! I should have killed Brenna when I had the chance!"


    Alec frowned, clearly displeased with Ruby''s tone. "What''s the use of saying that now? What matters most is finding a way to meet with Brenna. We need to apologize to her and ask for her help. After all, weed her for years. Look at her now. Her sess is all thanks to us."


    scornfulugh. ¡°She cut ties with usst time without a second thought. Do you really think Isabe let out she will agree to help us? She won''t spare us a nce even if we kneel before her. Stop daydreaming about getting her help and focus on something useful. Help me figure out how to win over Denis."


    mo

 Chapter 186

    Chapter 186 Go Ahead And


    Do It Yourself


    The phone''s ring interrupted Isabe just as she was poised to criticize the Barrett family. Rosie was on the line.


    "Miss Harper, how may I assist you today?" Isabe''s voice softened into a deferential tone when she answered the call.


    Isabe had noticed the flood of critical online posts about Rosie and felt a twinge of anxiety.


    Rosie didn''t waste any time berating Isabe as soon as the call went through.


    Her voice was so loud that every member of the Barrett family could hear her from the phone.


    "Why on earth would you act so foolishly? You assured me that the child was Brenna''s without double- checking? Now, there''s a storm of negative news about me because of your blunder!"


    Despite hearing the harsh scolding, Isabe experienced no remorse. In her view, Rosie was foolish for not


    using the scandalous revtion to undermine Brenna and for allowing Brenna to gain the upper hand--such a


    squandered opportunity.


    While she harbored these thoughts, Isabe kept them to herself, aware that Rosie still had the powerful Harper family behind her. The Harpers could easily crush her family.


    Unaware of the fact that Rosie had already been kicked out of the Harper family, Isabe still considered Rosie as that cherished member of the Harper family.


    She attempted to soothe Rosie, albeit timidly. "Please, Miss Harper, try to calm down..."


    With no one else to target her frustration, Rosie was irate. She suddenly thought of a devious id Isabe''s connections to Brenna. "I''m at the hospital. Come over now; we need to talk."


    .nowing


    Hermand was cold. "Get here quickly unless you want the Barrett family to face ruin. I never should have trusted such a fool like you. If not for your careless mistake about the child, would I be facing this predicament now? Get over here. You need to kneel in front of me and apologize."


    Expressions among the Barrett family members shifted as they heard Rosie''s harsh words, signaling her tant disregard for them.


    Though her words were harsh, Alec and Mack stayed silent.


    Isabe struggled to maintain herposure, her voice trembling with restrained fury. "Miss Harper, that''s unfair. My intentions were good; I never meant to create this mess."


    Given the Harper family''s potential help to the Barrett family and Rosie being the Barrett family''s sole ally, Isabe grudgingly endured the degradation.


    00%


    10:52


    With fists clenched and a face marred by bitterness, she cursed Rosie in her heart


    Rosie said, "Your intentions were good? I don''t believe you. It feels like you set this up to embarrass me Listen, get over here now. I need you to do something for me. Do you fill care about the Barrett Group''s car dealing


    or not?"


    Alec, overhearing the exchange, urged Isabe, "Hurry over there! she might have orders for os


    Isabe shot him a resentful look, feeling exploited by her own father for financial gain


    Mack leaned in and murmured, "You have to go. You''re the only hope for our family now. We can only degent on you for orders. And we can''t risk upsetting Miss Harper, Apologize to her sincerely. Just are the''s appeased."


    The mounting pressures only intensified Isabe''s anger, pushing her further towards a breaking in


    Though angry, she still agreed to Rosie''s demands.


    Once the call ended, Alec instructed Isabe, "When you go there, whatever Miss Harper says, just haten Let her get it all out. Don''t talk back. And don''t forget to ask about the orders she promised us at the banquetst time. She promised to help us, yet we''ve seen nothing from her. Make sure she doesn''t go back on her word."


    Isabe responded with a huff, visibly irritated by her father''s words, "Why must I always endure this? It''s not


    my fault she faced public ridicule; that was her own doing."


    Turning to face her family, she said sharply, "What do you mean we''ve seen nothing from her? Didn''t she connect us with several sales representatives? It''s not her fault you couldn''t seal any deals. Don''t say she hasn''t given us any help.'' With a final piercing nce at her family, Isabe grabbed her belongings and stormed out.


    Alec''s expression darkened with frustration as he turned to Ruby, saying, "Look at her, challenging me like that. Does she forget who is providing for her now? She''s as ungrateful as Brenna, both of them failing to show any gratitude. She is about to marry Denis now and shows no respect for us anymore. We must not raise another ungrateful child."


    Ruby, feeling a mix of despair and resignation, suggested a different approach to Alec.


    "We should seek out Brenna and offer a heartfelt apology. I think she holds more sway within the Harper family than Rosie. With her help, our family might return to its former glory."


    Alec responded with visible irritation, "If you think that will work, go ahead and do it yourself. I simply can''t bring myself to do it."


    Just then, Mack said, "Mom, you should be the one to handle this. Dad and I, being men, find it difficult to express certain sentiments. It seems more fitting for you to do this."


    He then handed Ruby her phone, saying, "Here, Mom, call Brenna right away and set up a meeting with her."


    10:52

 Chapter 187

    Chapter 187 Humiliation


    Isabe made her way to the hospital where Rosie was recovering. Upon opening the ward''s door, she was greeted by a sharp scent of disinfectant.


    As Isabe entered, she was abruptly soaked by a deluge of slop from above,pletely drenching her.


    Her hair and clothes clung to the bits of leftover food, emitting a terrible smell. There she stood, her eyes clenched shut, too humiliated to utter a sound.


    Rosie sat on the hospital bed and burst into loud, uncontrobleughter. For the first time in ages, a weight had lifted off her chest. She was no longer the only one fate had it out for. "This is so funny..."


    All the rage and bitterness she had bottled up finally got released. The storm inside her had quieted, and in its ce came a strange sense of relief, even a hint of triumph. She turned a sharp gaze on Isabe, convinced Isabe hadn''t paid nearly enough. She had not only been poured with the slop but also been subjected to


    endless online harassment. Isabe hadn''t faced any online harassment at all.


    A cold, calcting look crossed Rosie''s face as she started to devise a way to humiliate Isabe more.


    Rachael, still holding the empty slop bucket, said coldly to Isabe, "This is the price you should pay for deceiving Miss Harper. Next time, it won''t be just a bucket of slop!"


    She then gestured for the cleaners who had been waiting outside the door.


    Rotten leftovers and a sour stink clung to the floor. Isabe could be a mess, but this was Rosie''s hospital room, and Rachael wasn''t about to let it stay filthy.


    The cleaning crew set to work, efficiently tidying up the floor and refreshing the air with sprays of disinfectant and air freshener.


    Only Isabe remained covered in filth, left there to bear the humiliation.


    Isabe slowly opened her eyes, her anger burning in her chest. As she watched Rosieugh in delight, all she could think about was how badly she wanted to strangle her now.


    Rachael''s voice sliced through the tension, saying, "Your anger is pointless. You''ve only yourself to me for this. You provided Miss Harper with false information."


    Isabe, drenched from head to toe, hunched her shoulders and didn''t dare move. Vegetable leaves clung to her hair, making her look like aplete mess. She fumbled for tissues in her bag and wiped her face, gathering the courage to speak.


    "Why did you do this to me, Miss Harper?" She was stubborn, seeking an exnation from Rosie, and in her innocence, she even hoped for an apology from Rosie.


    "Kneel!" Rachael shouted, delivering a sharp kick to the back of Isabe''s knees.


    Isabe hit the floor with a heavy thud, pain radiating through her knees as she red at Rachael.


    10:52


    Rachael, expecting the reaction, kicked her once more. "How dare you re at me after you''ve caused Miss Harper so much trouble?"


    Isabe''s body wobbled because of the kick.


    She said, "I am not at fault here. Isn''t this Miss Harper''s own mistake? I provided her with such valuable information, yet she still failed in targeting Brenna. How is that my fault?"


    "Are you talking back?" Rachael swung the slop bucket at Isabe,


    Isabe dodged and quickly said, "I''m sorry. Please don''t hit me!"


    Rosie made no move to stop Rachael. Instead, she crossed her arms and watched the scene unfold before her. She believed Isabe hadn''t paid enough. Rachael continued to hit Isabe several times before finally stopping


    The mocking and harsh look on Rosie''s face remained. She observed Isabe''s misery, which made her feel a bit better.


    "Let''s see if you dare provide me with false information again," she said.


    Isabe, catching the twisted look on Rosie''s face, understood that Rosie was far from satisfied. But she didn''t


    want to apologize to Rosie or ept me for the matter.


    However, reflecting on her long rtionship with Denis and his avoidance of


    marriage discussions, Isabe knew she could not afford to offend Rosie. If she offended Rosie and Denis still refused to marry her, she would be


    left with no help.


    Yet, it was obvious that Rosie was only trying to humiliate her now.


    She wasn''t willing to just endure this.


    Isabe said, "I truly didn''t mean for it to happen, Miss Harper. I didn''t foresee this oue. This is neither my fault nor yours. If we must me someone, it should be Brenna. She is so skilled that she turned the tables


    on us."


    Rosie snorted, clearly unsatisfied with Isabe''s exnation, seeing it as nothing more than shifting me.


    She said, ¡°Stop talking nonsense. I don''t want to see you anymore. Leave now." Isabe got to her feet and cautiously asked the question she had long held back, hoping Rosie might show somepassion after humiliating her.


    "Miss Harper, you promised to bring orders to the Barrett Group. Thepany is struggling to meet payroll. Without new orders, it might go bankrupt."


    Rosie sneered, "Didn''t I introduce business to you? You are the one who failed to seal any deals. Now, you want my help again? Leave!"


    She was determined to keep the Barrett family unaware that she had been ousted from the Harper family and no longer had any ties to Harper Group''s automotive manufacturing. She could no longer get the Barrett Group


    more orders.


    Rachael forcefully grabbed Isabe, twisting her arm. "Leave now!"


    -0002


    10:

 Chapter 188

    Chapter 188 Have You Considered My Proposal


    Isabe left the hospital room and made her way down the corridor, enduring the weird gances from onlookers. Disgust greeted her as she stepped into the elevator


    "You stinks! Don''te inside!"


    "You are disgusting! Use the stairs!"


    Noses were covered by everyone in the elevator, their expressions filled with revulsion.


    Tears streamed down Isabe''s face as she fled, seething, with anger at Rosie. She struggled to understand why Rosie had resorted to throwing food waste at her instead of resolving their issues through conversation.


    Though she had managed to remove most of the leftovers on her body, the smell clung to her clothes, which now appeared dirty and oddly colored, causing people to turn away in disgust wherever she went


    Isabe sobbed uncontrobly as she got into her car, leaning on the steering wheel, crying alone for a long time.


    Determined to avoid further embarrassment, she drove directly to a hotel, where she booked a room to take a shower.


    Confronted with her own reflection in the mirror, Isabe feltpletely


    humiliated. She pondered why she had allowed Rosie to humiliate her like this. How could Rosie do this to her? Was it merely because the Barrett family had less wealth than the Harper family?


    If enduring that humiliation meant the Barrett family would gain something from it, she might Convinced


    herself it was worth the shame. But Rosie hadn''t given her anything.


    She made a silent vow-she would make Rosie pay for this.


    By the time she had finished cleaning herself and crying in the hotel room, her eyes were puffy and sore. But the weight pressing on her chest had eased.


    Haunted by Rosie''s insults, she began to browse online forums, focusing on Rosie. Previously, she had only nced at the main posts, ignoring the responses. Now, reading them thoroughly, she learned that Rosie had been ousted from the Harper family long ago.


    Since Rosie had been kicked out of the Harper family, she was no longer powerful.


    It didn''t take long for Isabe to settle on a decision-she was going to get back at Rosie.


    She continued to browse the forums, stumbling upon a post about Rosie being drenched in food waste.


    Suddenly, it all made sense why Rosie had poured food waste on her.


    10.53


    Isabe now felt she was being yed.


    On Monday, atop the Financial Building''s helipad, Brenna waited for a helicopter from the Weapons Research Institute.


    Slinging her beige backpack over one shoulder, she nced up and spotted the military helicopter approaching.


    Just then, her phone began to ring.


    She nced at the caller ID and immediately declined the call. It was the eleventh time Ruby had called.


    She had lost all interest in further interactions with the Barrett family.


    The helicopter touched down smoothly on the helipad, its des whirling rapidly, stirring up a strong wind and causing a loud noise.


    Inside, a pilot dressed in a green flight suit and a soldier, also d in green and armed with an AK, greeted Brenna with a polite smile.


    "Miss Harper, please get in and fasten your seatbelt," the soldier said with a grin. "Braeden mentioned that you designed this helicopter. Today, you''ll get to take the helicopter you designed."


    Brenna looked at the helicopter, intimately familiar with each aspect of it. The trust the military ced in her


    had initially stunned her when she received the design order.


    Uponpleting the design, she had worried it wouldn''t pass the military''s evaluation.


    Yet, her design had excelled, surpassing all other models in efficiency and stability. Within two years, it had been adopted by the military.


    She had been just twenty years old at that time.


    A slight, satisfied smile crossed Brenna''s face.


    By nine in the morning, Brenna arrived at the entrance of the Weapons Research Institute.


    The area buzzed with men in military uniforms, all wearing serious faces and engrossed in their duties.


    Brenna''s presence as a striking young woman caught everyone''s eye. Some young soldiers even I passed by her.


    ed as they


    "Hey, Brenna!¡± Braeden, dressed in a crisp blue military uniform, approached her. Despite being in his forties, he had sharp eyes that sparkled with vitality. Brenna greeted him with a handshake. "It''s really been a while," she said.


    As they entered the research institute, Braeden looked at Brenna expectantly. "Have you considered my proposal? If you join us, I could secure you a captain''s rank. We urgently need top-tier talent like you, and our policies for someone like you are very favorable."


    Brenna shook her head, saying, "I don''t feel ready to join the military, but I''m grateful for your offer."


    She was concerned that her past actions might emerge and not be well-received by the military.


    Braedenughed, showing understanding of her hesitations. "Don''t worry. If we want you on our team, we won''t let your past be an obstacle. We might even help clear it up for you."


    mo


    10:53


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    Chapter 188 Have You Considered My Proposal


    Brenna''s eyes brightened at the thought. If she had the military''s support, her


    enemies would likely hesitate


    before harming her.


    Yet, this support would also mean less freedom for her.


    "I''ll consider it," Brenna answered.

 Chapter 189

    Chapter 189 Kenny Mitchell


    Braeden brought Brenna into a spacious office that gave off a strong military vibe. The furniture was arranged with uniform fashion. Not a single item looked out of


    ce.


    Apanying them was an administrative officer in uniform. She offered Brenna a faint smile, her eyes bright with admiration.


    Brenna caught on quickly. She reached into her bag and handed over a USB drive she had prepared earlier. "There''s only one folder on it. It contains all the design concepts tied to this project."


    "Print 32 copies and take them to the conference room," Braeden instructed.


    He then motioned toward a chair across from his desk and said to Brenna, "Please, have a seat. Would you like water, coffee, or c?"


    Brenna replied with a poised smile, "Coffee will be fine."


    The entire office was done up in military green. The desk, the shelves, and even the chairs followed the same color scheme. The leather sofa matched, too.


    Naturally, the items on the table carried the same tone, though each one varied slightly in shade. Still, they were arranged with purpose, making the space seem aesthetically pleasing.


    After taking it all in, Brenna slowly unzipped her backpack. She pulled out herptop and opened the design sketches for Braeden to see.


    Braeden poured a ss of coffee and handed it to Brenna before turning his attention to the de


    Sketches.


    A few minutester, the female administrative officer returned and knocked once before stepping inside. "Mr. Foster, the documents have been delivered. Everyone''s in the conference room now."


    Braeden nodded and then said to Brenna, "Let''s head to the meeting and go over your design proposal."


    The conference room was sleek and built with a militarized edge. Thirty young men filled the space, all unfamiliar to Brenna. Each one carried himself with confidence.


    As Brenna stepped inside, a warm round of apuse greeted her.


    She met everyone''s eyes with a steady smile. But when her eyesnded on the sixth face on the left, she froze.


    She almost blurted out Ethan''s name.


    -mnce was uncanny. From his build to the way he carried himself, the man looked almost exactly


    10:53


    Wearing the military uniform, the man looked refined. There was warmth in his expression and depth in his eyes that pulled her in.


    Brenna was unable to look away. Her stare on the man lingered fong enough for others in the room to notice.


    Braeden picked up on it, too. He turned toward the man and said, "Kenny Mitchell, introduce yourself."


    The moment Brenna heard the name, something clicked. The officer whooked just like Ethan shared hisst


    name.


    But she couldn''t recall Ethan ever mentioning a brother. Wasn''t he an only child?


    Then again, she wasn''t entirely sure. She had never really asked Ethan about siblings.


    Kenny didn''t seem to mind Brenna''s staring. In fact, he looked rather pleased by it. Then, he formally introduced himself, saying, "My name''s Kenny Mitchell, captain of the second squadron of the flight team."


    The words snapped Brenna back to the present. Realizing she had lost herposure for a moment, she smiled awkwardly and exined, "Sorry. He looks just like a friend of mine. I was in a daze for a moment."


    Braeden chuckled and motioned toward the first seat on the right. "No need to apologize. Kenny does have a twin. You probably mistook him for his brother."


    The Mitchell family had deep roots in the military. Brenna had treated Vincent before and met a few of the Mitchell elders, but they had all been in civilian clothes at the time. She hadn''t thought to ask about their ranks


    or roles.


    Looking at Kenny now, she figured he must be Ethan''s brother.


    She nodded slightly and asked Kenny, "Have you been stationed here for a long time?"


    "Yes. I haven''t left here for six months," Kenny answered.


    Brenna nodded. Now, she understood that the man was not Ethan but his brother.


    She made a mental note to ask Ethan about thister.


    The meeting stretched on for six hours.


    By the time Brenna stepped out of the conference room, it was already past five in the afternoon.


    Braeden arranged for a helicopter to take Brenna back. When she returned to the studio, Tommy met her at the door with a worried look. He pointed toward her office. "Your foster mother''s here. She has been making a scene, saying she''s your mom. We told her you weren''t here, but she refused to leave. She said she''d wait for you no matter how long it took. She has been here since this morning and still won''t leave."


    Brenna''s mood soured. Ruby was like a shadow she couldn''t shake.


    She walked into her office and found Ruby seated in her chair, legs crossed and sipping coffee. She was casually flipping through the papers on the desk.


    "Who said you could touch my documents?" Brenna asked with a cold expression.


    Ruby shot up at once. The smugness in her face faded, reced by a forced smile. She rushed over to Brenna''s side and said, "Brenna, where have you been? You''ve been out all day, and no one was with you. What if

 Chapter 190

    Chapter 190 You Should Show Me Some Respect


    Brenna casually ced her backpack on her desk and sat down, seeming indifferent.


    Ruby, clearly upset, approached her with a stern expression. "Why are you ignoring me? Remember, I am your mother. I raised you, and your current sess is because of my sacrifices. You should show some gratitude to me."


    Brenna remained silent. She smoothly took out herptop, opened it, and began to review the meeting notes from the Weapons Research Institute. The notes included pilot and engineer feedback, suggestions for improvement, and their experiences with various fighter jets.


    Her design drafts required significant revisions, including major changes to the design concepts.


    She stared at the screen, deeply absorbed in contemting her revisions.


    Ruby stood next to her, looking at the screen, but only saw technical jargon and diagrams she did notprehend.


    Still, she was aware that Brenna had many orders and that her studio, which now employed thirty designers, was bustling and financially sessful.


    Ruby, feeling she deserved attention as Brenna''s mother, was unable to bring herself to tter Brenna.


    She waited for Brenna to say something to her, but Brenna continued her work, ignoring herpletely.


    Feeling frustrated, Ruby exhaled sharply in irritation and sat down opposite Brenna.


    By five thirty, all the designers had left the studio for the day, but Brenna was still immersed in her work.


    Tommy entered the room, knocking on the door. "How is work today?"


    He paid no mind to Ruby and began discussing the day''s meeting directly with Brenna.


    Brenna looked up from her work. "I''vepiled the feedback and forwarded it to your email. Review it when you can. Once you''ve reviewed it and suggested corrections, I''ll meet with Braeden again."


    Tommy nodded, cing a cup of water on her desk. "You''ve been at it all day. You should go home and rest


    now."


    Ruby observed their interaction, feeling overlooked.


    "Brenna! Why are you ignoring me? I''ve been here all day," Ruby said, her voice carrying a tone of reproach.


    Brenna nced at her briefly. "If you need to discuss something, just say it. I am busy and don''t have time for


    chitchat."


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    10:53


    O Q


    ?


    <


    Her cold attitude made Ruby angry.


    Back when Brenna had been living with the Barrett family, she had maintained a simr cold attitude. Ruby had assumed it was due to Brenna being upset about working for the Barrett family while receiving poor treatment.


    At that time, Ruby hadn''t been concerned by Brenna''s cold demeanor, interpreting it as her form of quiet


    resistance.


    But now, Ruby realized the truth. That cold demeanor wasn''t about dissatisfaction; it was a way of showing disdain. Brenna had been looking down on her all this time.


    This realization made Ruby furious. "Is this the way you speak to your mother? You should show me some


    respect!"


    Brenna met her gaze sharply. "What have you done that deserves my respect? Should I respect the way you hit


    and scolded me as a child, neglected to feed me, or used me for your own gain as I got older?"


    Her dismissive look, devoid of any intent for revenge, deeply wounded Ruby.


    "You!" Ruby struggled to find words to defend her past harsh actions toward Brenna.


    "Brenna..." Ruby''s tone eventually softened. She realized what she needed to do to get help from Brenna. "The


    harsh way I treated you was for your benefit. Would you be where you are today without that discipline?"


    Brenna let out a quietugh and said, "You really have no shame saying something like that, do you?"


    Ruby was boiling with anger yet unable to vent her frustrations. After all, she needed help from Brenna, and


    Brenna was a member of the powerful Harper family now.


    She said softly, "Brenna, believe me, I did everything for your benefit. Isn''t your sess partly because of the discipline I instilled in you? You can now give a lecture to thousands of Harper Group''s employees, all highly skilled engineers. How could you have achieved so much if I hadn''t pushed you when you were living with my


    family?"


    She attempted a smile, but Brenna''s demeanor stayed cold.


    Realizing that Brenna wouldn''t ask about her reasons foring, Ruby finally said, "I came here today to a


    for your help."


    Brenna remained silent, merely giving her a quick nce before turning her attention back to her meeting


    notes.


    Ruby continued, "You''ve always brought prosperity wherever you went. While you were with the Barrett family, the Barrett Group''s automotive division flourished, sessfullyunching its IPO and handling more orders. than we could manage. Since you left, many orders have been canceled, and we''re struggling to even pay the employees'' sries. Could you talk to your father about directing some orders from Harper Group our way? I''ve dedicated twenty years to raising you. You should be grateful to me and help me..."


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 Chapter 191

    Chapter 191 I Don''t Want


    The Barrett Group To Be...


    "I understand you resent us, but you can''t let the Barrett Group copse. How about this, have your father give us a few orders, just billions of dors'' worth will do. Help Barrett Group through this tough time and let it rise


    again as a way to repay us for all we''ve done for you."


    Ruby continued to speak, her eyes locked on Brenna. She knew from past interactions that Brenna was listening


    to her.


    After a pause, she added, "We raised you, and that''s the truth, whether you acknowledge it or not. You can''t abandon the Barrett family and let the Barrett Group fall apart like this. Wouldn''t you be worried about being


    seen as heartless? People will call you cruel for this, saying you-"


    Brenna, visibly annoyed, interjected, "Are you finished? Yes, you raised me, but I''ve settled that debt long ago. Haven''t I already contributed enough designs for the Barrett Group? I helped it expand from a small factory to the Barrett Group it is today, even getting it listed. I don''t owe you anything. You should leave now."


    Tommy promptly stepped forward, took hold of Ruby''s arm, and began pulling her out of the room.


    Ruby was seething. "What you said isn''t right! You haven''t repaid us enough. You need to stop the Harper Group from bringing down the Barrett Group and give us more orders. Only then will you have fully repaid me for raising you. Otherwise, I won''t let this go."


    "Leave now!" Brenna said firmly. "If you don''t go, I''ll ensure the Barrett Group goes bankrupt tomorrow!"


    Ruby, infuriated, eximed, "You wouldn''t dare! If you do that, I won''t let you off easily!"


    Tommy forcefully led her out.


    Brenna let out a deep sigh. "What a nuisance."


    She puzzled over how Ruby had managed to locate her studio.


    Tommy soon returned to Brenna''s office. "The Barrett family used you for years, and they''re still not satisfied. Now that you''ve left that hellhole, she has the nerve toe see you and ask you to help them? She is


    shameless."


    Brenna said, "She is indeed shameless. Next time she shows up, don''t bother being polite to her. If she starts on about being my mother or raising me, just ignore her and drive her away."


    Tommy, still upset about the earlier incident, couldn''t hold back his irritation.


    He said, "She came here this morning, unting her role as your adoptive mother to push us around, even asking when our studio was founded. When she found out it was five years ago, she imed the studio should belong to the Barrett family since you were still underage at that time. She argued that legally, all your assets


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    10:53


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    III


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    Chapter 191 I Don''t Want The Barrett Group To Be Around Any Longer


    from before you were an adult would be the Barrett family''s. I argued with her, and her audacity was astounding. She even asked about our yearly ie and your personal savings."


    Brennaughed derisively. "Savings? What savings? Any savings I might have had already went to the Barrett. family. She knows this very well but pretends otherwise. If I don''t set her straight, she''ll think I am easy to push around."


    Tommy''s expression grew stern. "People like her don''t deserve any respect To be honest, I think you''ve been too lenient with the Barrett Group."


    Brenna nodded and called Thiago. "I don''t want the Barrett Group to be around any longer."


    On the other end of the line, Thiago''s voice was calm. "Don''t worry. In a week, the Barrett Group will be gone


    from Shirie."


    After a pause, he added, "By the way, you''ve been invited to the International Economic Forum in Cliffdell. The event is in three months. Will you attend?"


    A smile broke across Brenna''s face. "Absolutely. I missed outst time, and this is


    a wonderful chance; I won''t


    miss it."


    After ending the call, Brenna gathered her belongings and left the office.


    She had just settled into her car in the parking garage when her phone vibrated with a message from Ellie.


    "Come save me! Jayceon is driving me insane."


    A location pin followed. Brenna sent a quick response.


    "On my way,"


    She drove out of the garage, elerating quickly. It wasn''t long before she arrived at a high-end restaurant.


    Ellie, dressed elegantly, was waiting for her at the entrance, looking frustrated. Brenna handed her keys to the valet and approached Ellie.


    "Why are you dressed like this? Are you nning to marry Jayceon now?" she teased, linking arms with !! they entered the restaurant.


    Ellie was furious. "Absolutely not! The Russell family is nothing but trouble, and I won''t be part of it. You wouldn''t believe how furious I am. Can you imagine? I''ve ended up with a son who sides with outsiders! Jayceon took Patrick out today, and he bought some clothes for me. I don''t know what he had told Patrick, but when they got back, Patrick insisted I wear this and dragged me here to dinner." Brenna raised an eyebrow. "And you actually went along with it?¡±


    Her incredulous look said it all. She was well aware that Ellie was not one to be easily swayed, not even by her own son. Yet, she had relented this time. Brenna looked at Ellie in shock, eager to understand what had led her to do this.


    Ellie seethed with anger, saying, "Jayceon threatened to inform the Russell family of my son''s existence if I didn''t do it. Do you realize what kind of people the Russell family members are? They are all ruthless. I''m not about to let my son get caught up with them."


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    Brenna was momentarily at a loss for words, her heart going out to her best friend. After a while, she sighed softly "This isplicated. Patrick seems determined to y matchmaker. Kids don''t always understand adult emotions Maybe it''s time to be upfront with Patrick about what you want, so he doesn''t waste his efforts."


    Ellie gave a resigned shrug. "I can never quite figure out what''s going through that boy''s mind. You''d think with his intelligence, he''d understand rtionships, but he doesn''t. Yet, when ites to coding and machinery, he''s incredibly sharp. It''s confusing whether to call him smart or not."


    She shook her head and added, "I''ve exined to Patrick that I no longer love his father, but Patrick keeps insisting that dads should love moms and vice versa. He craves aplete family so much that whenever I see that hopeful look in his eyes, I find myself unable to shatter his dreams by telling him Jayceon and I are impossible to be together."


    Brenna didn''t know how tofort Ellie, handling emotional matters wasn''t her strength. "We''ll figure it out as we go," she eventually said.


    She did, however, understand Ellie''s situation. Ellie had no intention of rekindling her rtionship with Jayceon; the gap between them was just too wide,


    Ellie had once shed with Jayceon''s parents, and it hadn''t ended well. Jayceon''s parents held her in contempt, believing she wasn''t worthy of marrying Jayceon. In turn, Ellie couldn''t stand Jayceon''s many girlfriends or his controlling parents.


    Both sides held disdain for each other.


    Had it not been for Patrick''s insistent curiosity, Ellie would have kept his father''s identity a secret and never allowed him to meet Jayceon.


    Feeling frustrated, Ellie soon reached the restaurant. It was a quaint ce with both indoor and outdoor seating. Jayceon and Patrick were sitting at a window, both smiling broadly. Across from them, a woman in a red dress, elegant and charming,ughed and conversed with them.


    "Look at that; I leave for just a moment, and he''s already flirting with another woman. Jayceon can''t bear to be alone. How did I ever fall for such a jerk?" Ellie said.


    Brenna''s face darkened when she saw Jayceon, Patrick, and the woman in red, all chatting andughing together. Patrick didn''t seem bothered by the woman; in fact, he appeared to enjoy herpany, making them look like a happy family of three.


    "I know that woman," Brenna said, her expression turning cold. "She was Jayceon''s plus one at my wee back party. They must have slept together long ago."


    Brenna didn''t want to distress her friend further, but she was also determined not to let Ellie be deceived by these two.


    Ellie let out a coldugh, her expression dripping with sarcasm. "Let''s go see what this shameless couple has to


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    Brenna watched Ellis closely and realized she wasn''t actually angry but seemed rather amused by the situation


    This reassured Brenna


    Together, they approached Jayceon''s table and sat down


    When Jayceon saw them, his face was filled with unease as he nced nerously at the woman, Fay Warren, as


    Fay recognized Brenna instantly and greeted her with enthusiasm,pletely overlooking Ellie.


    Patrick''s excitement was evident, his eyes locked on the box Brenna was holding. He jumped up and eximed,


    Brenna responded with a nod and affectionately pinched his cheek.


    Patrick embraced Brenna tightly, demonstrating their close bond.


    Feeling overlooked, Fay was displeased and even embarrassed. She recalled how Brenna had also seemed so distant at her wee back party, which had irritated her.


    However, knowing she needed to maintain good rtions with the Harper family and observing Brenna and Jayceon''s apparent connection, l''ay opted to remain friendly.


    Thus, Tay addressed Brenna with a touch of ttery, saying, "Miss Harper, what a surprise! Are you joining Jayceon for lunch? Where''s Mr. Mitchell?"


    Brenna still chose to ignore l''ay.


    Who did Pay think she was, daring to upset Ellie? She was just another woman Jayceon would soon lose


    interest in.


    Handing the box to Patrick, Brenna patted his head and said, "This model is yours now. Enjoy ying with it." Ellie''s lips curved into a smile, feeling a rush of satisfaction as she observed Jayceon. She wasn''t sure of the specifics of Fay and Jayceon''s rtionship, but Jayceon''s unease was evident.


    Jayceon avoided Ellie''s gaze, silently hoping Fay would depart soon and not jeopardize his recent efforts.


    Feeling slighted, Fay turned to Brenna and asked, "Miss Harper, why are you ignoring me?"


    Brenna acted as though she had only just noticed her. "Were you speaking to me? I''m sorry; I don''t think we''ve met before. Could you introduce yourself?"


    Feeling even more humiliated, Fay introduced herself, saying, "I''m Fay Warren, Jayceon''s girlfriend."


    Jayceon''s expression shifted abruptly, and he quickly checked Ellie''s reaction. Clearly, she was displeased.


    He immediately said to Fay, "What nonsense are you talking about?"


    Fay sat close beside Jayceon, almost clinging to him.


    She gave him a yful pout. "Jayceon, how am I talking nonsense?"


    Ellie, observing Fay''s clingy behavior, rolled her eyes.


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    When Patrick heard Fay''s words, his face instantly twisted with frustration. Despite his age, he could tell she was trying to steal his dad from his mom. With fiery anger, he said to Fay, "He''s my dad, and that''s my mom. We''re the real family here. You are a homewrecker! Just leave!"


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    Chapter 193 An Explicit


    Photo


    Fay initially believed Jayceon was ying with someone else''s child, never guessing that the charming boy was his son. In shock, she said to Jayceon, "Jayceon, this child..."


    Jayceon''s expression turned grim as he pushed the woman who was leaning on him away. "He''s my son."


    "But aren''t you still unmarried? How do you have a child? Are you certain he''s really yours? Jayceon, don''t let yourself deceived by someone else," Fay said.


    She had been close to Jayceon for a while and understood his nature well; he was not the type to be easily manipted or to ept a child as his own without valid reasons.


    Her emotions overwhelmed her, tears gathering in her eyes as she looked at Jayceon with a sorrowful expression.


    Ellie snorted with disdain. She knew Jayceon''s reputation with women well and doubted he would ever change.


    Jayceon kept his face stern. "Is it so unheard of to have a son without being married?"


    Fay regained herposure. "So you are really not married?"


    She evenughed softly to herself, shooting a confident look at Ellie. She acknowledged that Ellie was attractive, exactly Jayceon''s type.


    Yet, despite Ellie having had his child, he had not married her. What did that suggest?


    It was clear to her that Jayceon valued the child but had no ns to marry Ellie.


    This kind of scenario was not umon among the wealthy.


    "I need to go to the bathroom," Patrick said, setting down the car model and looking up at Ellie.


    Jayceon rose immediately, gently taking his son''s hand. "I''ll go with you. Ellie, why don''t you order for us? Pick


    whatever you like."


    Then, Jayceon and Patrick walked off together.


    Fay''s attitude shifted abruptly, and she looked at Ellie with a venomous stare. "You''re quite smart, trying to secure your ce by having Jayceon''s child. But what good has it done? Years have gone by, and your son is already this old, yet Jayceon still hasn''t made you his wife."


    Her face twisted into a sneer. She observed Ellie''s outfit. Although it was from a prestigiousbel, it only cost about twenty thousand dors.


    Considering Jayceon''s usual style, if he really cared for a woman, he would be buying her high-end clothes, not


    this cheap stuff.


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    Fay said, "Don''t fool yourself into thinking that dressing like a temptress will make Jayceon take a second nce at you. He might ept the child, but marrying you is out of the question. Just give up."


    Ellie couldn''t bring herself to respond. Instead, she looked at Fay, whose outfit was wless and costly,plemented by a ne and rings that were clearly expensive.


    Fay caught Ellie''s evaluative eye and smirked arrogantly. "Jayceon bought all these clothes and jewelry for me."


    She swiftly pulled her phone from her purse, found a particr photo, and unted it in front of Ellie. "Take a good look at this. Don''t think having his child will tie him down to you."


    Ellie nced at the photo; Jayceon and Fay were intimately in bed, both unclothed, with Jayceon holding Fay, and she was kissing him.


    "Well, good luck with your attempts win Jayceon over and be his wife," Ellie said, rising abruptly and departing, her steps quick.


    Brenna approached Fay, quickly snapped a photo with her phone, then grabbed a ss of water from the table and threw it in Fay''s face. "Chase after him yourself if you fancy that scumbag. Stop repulsing others. Not everyone views Jayceon as a treasure. To me, he''s nothing but garbage."


    Fay, taken aback by Brenna''s bold move, said, "Can''t we have a civilized discussion? Why resort to such actions? Miss Harper, this is between her and me. What business is it of yours?"


    If Brenna hadn''t been a member of the influential Harper family, Fay might have already retaliated.


    "Don''t tell me you''ve developed an interest in Jayceon as well?" Fay asked, clearly confused.


    Brenna didn''t respond and walked away, following Ellie.


    Fay, feeling somewhat triumphant despite the situation, snorted and wiped her face with a tissue. "Ja


    belongs to no one but me," she muttered under her breath.


    The revtion that Jayceon had a son didn''t faze her. She was confident that once she and Jayceon were


    married, she would be able to kick the boy out of the family.


    She pulled out herpact to touch up her makeup.


    Just as she was finishing up, Jayceon came back with Patrick.


    "Where did Ellie go?" Jayceon asked Fay sharply.


    Feeling slighted yet unwilling to reveal that she had driven Ellie away by showing


    the explicit photo, Fay said in a sweet voice, "She''s gone. Said she had ns with friends."


    At that moment, Jayceon''s phone buzzed with a message from Brenna. He checked it and saw the explicit


    photo of him and Fay.


    His fury erupted immediately, and he struck Fay, shouting, "You bitch!"


    Fay was stunned. "Jayceon! Why would you hit me? I''m also having your child!"


    "That''s nonsense!" Jayceon eximed. He turned to leave, pulling Patrick along with him.


    But Patrick was fixated on his car model and refused to leave.


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    "Daddy, my car model!" he yelled.


    Jayceon, feeling trapped, said, "Okay, wait here for a bit. I''ll go and bring your


    mom back."

 Chapter 194

    Chapter 194 The Bad


    Woman Wants To Hit Me


    Jayceon left in a hurry, filled with anxiety and frustration. He had finally convinced his son to bring Ellie along, only for her to see a side of him he wished she hadn''t. He knew he needed to exin himself thoroughly.


    If he failed to rify things now, reconciling with Ellie would be even more difficult.


    Meanwhile, Patrick was deeply engrossed in ying with the car model, intent on taking it apart and putting it back together. He seemed oblivious to Fay sitting next to him.


    Fay studied Patrick''s features closely, his eyebrows, eyes, and nose bore a striking resemnce to Jayceon''s. Even at such a young age, he already showed signs of being very handsome. She wondered how many hearts he would break in the future.


    Her expression grew cold as she pondered the potential threat he posed-if recognized by the Russell family, he might im part of their fortune. It seemed wise to get rid of him sooner.


    "Have you ever visited your grandparents with your dad?" Fay asked, trying to seem casual.


    Patrick remained focused on the car model, not looking up, as if he hadn''t heard her.


    Feeling frustrated by being ignored by a child, Fay nudged Patrick rudely and said in a sharp talking to you. Did you hear me?"


    Patrick looked up at her, his expression defiant.


    Fay repeated her question.


    Patrick rolled his eyes in annoyance and returned to ying with the car model. "Hey, I''m


    Fay grew angry and pushed his arm. ¡°You little brat, how dare you ignore me? This is uneptable! Answer me; has your dad taken you to meet your grandparents?"


    Startled by her push, Patrick dropped a piece of the car model. Angrily, he replied, "No."


    Fay sneered, "So the Russell family doesn''t recognize you, huh? That makes sense. Why would they acknowledge a child born to that woman? Your mother''s background isn''t impressive, is it? Someone like her joining the Russell family? Impossible."


    Thinking Patrick wouldn''t grasp her harsh words, Fay spoke without holding back.


    She continued, "Listen here, you shouldn''t get too attached to your dad. He''ll


    never marry your mom. She''s not right for him. Only someone like me fits him. But f you start calling me ''mom'' now, I might think about being your stepmom after I marry your dad."


    if


    Patrick picked up a metal piece from the car model, his eyes burning with anger. "You''re lying! My daddy would


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    Chapter 194 The Bad Woman Wants To Hit Me


    never marry someone as mean as you!"


    With that, he threw the piece at Fay with all his might.


    Since they were close, the piece struck Fay directly on the forehead, causing it to bleed.


    Fay touched her forehead, noticed the blood, and became furious. She could see Jayceon outside focused on attempting to calm Ellie, which gave her more courage to deal with Patrick. She raised her hand to strike Patrick


    and shouted, "You little brat, you dare to hit me? I''ll teach you a lesson now!''


    Patrick ran away quickly, yelling, "Daddy, the bad woman wants to hit me! Daddy!"


    Fay realized the trouble she would be in if Jayceon learned she tried to hit his son. She might lose any chance of marrying him.


    She hurried after Patrick, grabbed him to stop him, and tried to scare him into silence. "Who said I was going


    to hit you? You''re making things up," she said sharply.


    Patrick was smart. Although he was smaller than Fay, he used his teeth as a weapon. He bit down hard on


    Fay''s wrist.


    His mother had always told him to stand up to bad people, and she would handle the rest for him.


    "Ah-" Fay screamed in pain. She pulled her hand back quickly.


    Seizing the opportunity, Patrick escaped again, shouting, "Daddy, the bad woman wants to hit me!"


    Ellie noticed her son running towards Jayceon and her and moved to meet him. Jayceon also turned, still frustrated because Ellie was stubborn about not joining him for a meal.


    Patrick pointed to Fay, who was still inside, and said, "The bad woman wants to hit me. She c1 and said the Russell family won''t acknowledge me."


    Fay opened the door just in time to hear this.


    She stamped her foot in irritation, never expecting Patrick to recount her words so precisely.


    She said to Jayceon, "I didn''t! He''s lying."


    She then pointed to her bleeding forehead. "Look, he hit me with the car model."


    She also showed him her arm. "And he bit me."


    me a brat


    Ellie was livid. She knew her son too well-he wouldn''t strike anyone without a good reason. This woman had


    to have pushed him to it.


    She walked over and pped Fay several times.


    Immediately, Fay''s face began to swell. Ellie, skilled in fighting like Brenna, did not restrain herself.


    Ellie eximed, "You are despicable! How dare you bully a child?"


    Fay, consumed by anger, wanted to fight back, but when'' she saw Jayceon ring at her with a terrifying expression she had never seen before, she held back and recoiled in fear.


    "Jayceon, please, listen to me; I didn''t say those things. Children exaggerate. I didn''t hit him, he hit me and bit me. Aren''t you going to do something about it?"


    Fay tried to sound pitiful.


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    Patrick pulled on Ellie''s dress and said, "That bad woman wants to be my stepmom."


    Ellie scoffed and addressed Jayceon directly, saying, "So, your woman wants to be my son''s stepmom? You''re really something, seeing different women at once!"


    Jayceon responded seriously, "I''ve ended things with her long ago."


    Ellie was skeptical. "I don''t believe you." She took Patrick by the hand, leading him toward Brenna''s car, and asked him, "Do you want other women around your dad? Do you want anyone to be your stepmom?"


    Patrick, still very young and unustomed to such adult conflicts, felt let down by Jayceon. The father he had just begun to know was potentially marrying another


    woman.


    He shook his head sadly. "No."


    "Let''s leave," Ellie said, resolved to distance her son from Jayceon.


    Suddenly, Patrick remembered something important. "Mommy, I need to get the car model Brenna gave me.


    Jayceon approached him, taking his hand and crouching down to make a heartfelt promise. ¡°Patrick, I won''t marry anyone else. I''ll marry only your mommy.¡±


    Patrick was confused and overwhelmed, struggling to grasp theplexities of adult rtions


    1. s. He slipped


    his hand from Jayceon''s grip, ran back to the restaurant to retrieve the car model, and then joined Ellie in


    Brenna''s car.


    Despite being struck, Fay felt a twisted satisfaction in having pushed Ellie and Patrick away from Jayceon.


    She yed the victim, clinging to Jayceon. "Look what your son did to me, Jayceon. I''m hurt, and the wound might be seriously infected. Can you take me to the hospital?"


    Jayceon looked at Fay, feeling a twinge of sympathy. She had been by his side for over a year and was usually quite considerate.


    However, he resolved that this was thest time he would take care of Fay. His heart truly belonged to Ellie.


    In the car, Brenna tried tofort Ellie. She said, "Don''t be upset. Jayceon isn''t just seeing Fay; he''s had many girlfriends. Since my wee back party, I''ve kept an eye on him. Since your breakup, he has had at least three girlfriends, not counting those short-term flings."


    Ellie expressed her exasperation, saying, "I''m not angry, just feeling stupid. I knew nothing good woulde from this, yet here I am. I had no ns of getting back with him."


    Soon after, Brenna drove Ellie and Patrick to another restaurant.


    The ce was cozy, and it was crowded, but they managed to find an avable table.


    As soon as they settled in, a man approached their table.


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    Thiagoughed. "I''ve been calling your names for some time. Why have you two been ignoring me?"


    The irritation on Ellie''s face faded away, reced by a weing smile. "Thiago, it''s been ages."


    Patrick, holding tightly to his car model, looked up and greeted Thiago brightly, saying, "Hi, Thiago! I want


    lobster!"


    Thiago chuckled and ruffled Patrick''s hair. "You got it, I''ll order lobster for you."


    He then said to Ellie, "I was just wrapping up a business meeting here with a client."


    Brenna had chosen this restaurant because she knew Thiago would be meeting a client here.


    Ellie nced around, curious about the client Thiago had mentioned.


    Catching her look, Thiago quickly added, "The client has already left. Do you mind if I join you for a meal?"


    They all settled down at the table, with Thiago sitting next to Patrick, helping him with the car model. "Patrick, this model was custom-made. I also have a red one; would you like that one, too?"


    At a nearby table, Jordy was on a date with Sylvie. Sylvie seemed to be in a bad mood; only the recent troubles faced by the Higgins family and their need for investment had convinced her to date Jordy.


    Jordy had already spotted Brenna. She looked more striking than ever, having shed her casual style from her days with the Barrett family for a more elegant and sophisticated appearance.


    Previously, Brenna had sported blue hair and dressed in simple T-shirts and jeans, looking ordinary.


    Now, Brenna had done her hair and dressed in designer clothes, transforming herself into a picture of elegance.


    He thought back to the times when Brenna had deeply cared for him. Had Isabe not interv and Brenna would be married now.


    perhaps he


    Since Brenna was the daughter of the powerful Harper family, Jordy believed going back to be her boyfriend could greatly benefit hispany.


    He grinned to himself and turned his attention back to Sylvie, continuing their conversation. ¡°Miss Higgins, since that horse race, I''ve been unable to stop thinking about you," he said.


    He attentively tended to Sylvie, his smile aiming to charm.


    Sylvie, on the other hand, kept her distance, her gaze dismissive as she looked at Jordy and said with growing impatience, "Mr. Barton, have you given any thought to the investment I brought up? The Higgins Group is worth billions. If you decide to invest in us, you won''t regret it."


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    Chapter 196 Who Do You


    Think You Are


    Jordy wasn''t foolish. There was no logical reason for a billion-dor corporation to show interest in a small-scale financial lending business like his.


    He smirked, suspecting that the Higgins Group might be in worse shape than it appeared.


    Even if the Higgins Group managed to secure a loan, chances were slim they''d be able to pay it back. Jordy cast a faintly scornful look at Sylvie, his thoughts drifting as his eyes slowly swept over her.


    Sylvie shifted ufortably under his intense gaze, shielding her exposed skin with her hand and ring back. "Why are you looking at me like that?"


    Jordy averted his gaze and chuckled lightly. "Miss Higgins, I''ve invited you out many times, and you''ve always said no. Now that yourpany is struggling, you suddenly agree to meet me."


    With a sly grin, he pulled a room key card from his pocket, ced it on the table, and pushed it toward Sylvie. "If you go to this ce tonight at nine, I might consider helping the Higgins Group." He had pieced together that the banks must have turned the Higgins Group down, driving them to seek funding fro maller firms like his.


    Sylvie would never have agreed to meet him if the Higgins Group wasn''t desperate.


    Sylvie''s eyes narrowed at the room key card, her frustration boiling over. She stood up abruptly, seized the wine ss before her, and threw the contents in Jordy''s face.


    "Who do you think you are, trying to make a move on me? No matter how desperate things be, I''ll never stoop low enough to beg someone as pathetic as you."


    Seething, Sylvie turned to leave.


    Jordy calmly dried his face with a napkin, preserving hisposed fa?ade. He called after her, "Miss Higgins, don''t dismiss me so quickly. If you change your mind, you know where to find me."


    The restaurant was small, allowing Brenna to see the entire exchange. She recalled Jordy as someone decent in the past, but now, he seemed adept at exploiting someone else''s vulnerabilities.


    Brenna was about to look away from the scene, but Jordy caught her eye, gave her a brief smile, and then resumed his meal.


    Ellie, who had already seen Jordy''s photo before, was looking at him. She let out a softugh and said, "What are the odds we''d cross paths with him here?"


    Thiago, unconcerned about encountering Jordy, was more focused on Sylvie. He said, ¡°Sylvie has been plotting with Rosie against Brenna. Recently, I had Joe deal with the Higgins family. Their stocks have plummeted for a


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    month straight, wiping seventy billion from their value and pushing them into a financial crisis. Now, even banks refuse to give them loans."


    Brenna smiled slightly, gratified by Thiago''s efforts. "Thank you, this meal is on me."


    Thiago''s face became stern. ¡°Sylvie deserved what she got. She used her money to target others, so it''s only fair that she feels what it''s like to be poor. I''ve taken simr actions against the Morrison family. Like the Higgins family, the Morrison family has seen theirpany''s market vale drop by sixty billion and is also desperate for loans. But Vivian isn''t like Sylvie; she''s just a spoiled daughter who cares only about her own pleasures. She didn''t do anything about her family''s situation."


    Ellie lifted her ss to clink it against theirs, her thoughts circling around the likely ns of the Higgins and Morrison families. "If they want any chance at survival, their only move is to start selling off shares."


    Thiago agreed with a rxed nod. "Exactly, and theirpetitors are already snapping up those shares," he


    said.


    Ellie said inly, "They had iting."


    Brenna raised her ss to Thiago. "Thank you again."


    In Norview,


    Ethan and Neville, nked by a dozen bodyguards, had just departed from the Ward family estate. They hadn''t gotten far in the car when several cars sped up to them, their upants opening fire.


    "Speed up!" Ethan said, turning to see the attackers in the following car, who were aggressively firing at his car.


    The attack was intense, clearly with the intent of killing him.


    Neville reached under the seat for a duffel bag, pulled out two guns, loaded them, and handed one to Ethan, keeping one for himself.


    Ethan saw the hand grenades inside the bag. He grabbed one, yanked the pin, rolled down his window, and tossed it after counting to two.


    His timing was perfect; the grenade exploded right as the nearby car closed in.


    The st overturned the car, and the two trailing vehicles collided with the car, flipping over due to their high


    speed.


    With a grim expression, Ethan told the driver to elerate and lose the remaining pursuers.


    He and Neville efficiently fired back at their attackers from their windows until they were no longer visible, then


    settled back into their seats.


    Neville looked concerned. "It looks like they''re not nning to return our shipment, but the shipment is essential for our automotive manufacturing."


    He turned to Ethan, pausing for a moment before cautiously asking, "Do you think


    we should reach out to the Hewitt family for help?"


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    "There is no need for that," Ethan said coldly, his expression hardening like ice. "I can handle a gang on my own. Moreover, the Hewitt family can''t be trusted. If we ask for their help, we will owe them more than we can


    afford."


    The car raced down the highway, bullets hammering against the bulletproof ss, leaving spiderweb-like cracks. Neville''s instincts kicked in, and he shoved Ethan down.


    Just as Ethan thought they had finally shaken off the Ward family''s pursuit, more cars appeared, the attack even more relentless and aggressive than before. Bullets hammered the rear window, turning it into a mess, on


    the verge of shattering.


    "Step on it!" Ethan barked at the driver, urgency ringing in his voice.


    Digging into his bag, he pulled out two grenades. With steady hands, he yanked


    the pins, counted to three under his breath, and lobbed them out through a narrow opening in the door.


    The sound of explosions rocked the air as the two pursuing pickup trucks were blown up.


    Atst, Ethan was out of danger.


    The tension in the car dissolved as everyone released a breath of relief.


    But Ethan couldn''t shake the nagging feeling of unease. The bodyguards he had brought with him were all dead.


    Brenna had been swamped with work for an entire week, yet she had only managed toplete a fraction of the intricate designs for thousands ofponents. Designing a fighter jet was no walk in the park. It demanded relentless focus, precision, and two months of nonstop effort from her and her team.


    Amid her busy schedule, she hadn''t even realized that Ethan hadn''t contacted her for over a week.


    After a long day, she returned home to find Giselle alone. The three men of the Harper family hadn''te back


    yet.


    With a bright smile, Giselle pulled Brenna toward the dining table. "Are you hungry? You have been working harder than your dad and brothers-leaving early anding homete. You don''t need to earn money for our family. Take a break and enjoy yourself at home."


    Brenna was indeed tired and hungry. She sat down and immediately began to eat. "Mom, this is delicious," she remarked.


    Giselle smiled, clearly pleased, the bracelet Brenna had gifted her glinting under the light. "Next Wednesday is your birthday the first one since you came home. I was thinking of celebrating it at home. We''ll keep it small, just family and a few close friends. How does that sound?"


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    Brenna wasn''t one for extravagant celebrations, so she readily agreed.


    She said, "I''ll invite my friend Ellie, Patrick''s mom. She is a well-known fashion designer and the founder of the M&G brand, I''ll also ask my studio partners toe. It will be a lively gathering"


    Giselle nodded, then casually said, "I have noticed you don''t have many friends. In the future, try to make a few


    more friends. Don''t just bury yourself in work."


    Brenna shot her mother a casual nce. "One true friend is all I need, Mom. I haven''t seen you surrounded by many friends, either."


    Giselle shrugged. "I had plenty of friends when I was young, but as we grow older, everyone gets caught up in their own families, and we drift apart. But you are right. I''ll invite a few of my friends so they can meet my daughter. They all work in the government, and their kids are doing well. You should get to know them."


    Brenna nodded obediently, not wanting to spoil the mood.


    Truth be told, she wasn''t very social and believed one or two close friends were more than enough for her.


    Just then, a familiar car pulled into the driveway, and Ernst stepped out.


    Brenna and Ernst hadn''t been on the best of terms. She knew he didn''t like her,


    so she remained seated, not bothering to move to greet him.


    Giselle went out to greet Ernst, then walked beside him as he strode into the living


    room.


    "Mom," Ernst said to Giselle.


    Giselle eyed him, a hint of reproach in her gaze. "Why haven''t you been home for over half


    onth?"


    Her eyes flicked toward Brenna, who was eating quietly, and she lowered her voice. "Are you still holding a grudge against Brenna?"


    Ernst replied coldly, "No, Mom. Mypanies have been overwhelmed with orders, so I have been staying at the house near the office."


    Giselle held his arm gently. "Take some time to reconnect with your sister, alright? And stop holding grudges against her. Brenna is your real sister. Rosie is your cousin, but she hurt Brenna before. You shouldn''t be too close to her anymore."


    This time, Ernst didn''t protest. "I''ll listen to you," he said.


    He hadn''t visited Rosie in the hospital for a long time.


    When Rosie took the initiative to message him, he responded with nothing more than a cold reply.


    He had realized that Rosie was only using him against Brenna, and the revtion had left him feeling disheartened.


    Satisfied that her son had changed his attitude, Giselle led him to the dining table. Ernst looked at Brenna, met her eyes, and greeted her.


    Brenna offered a small smile, greeting him politely.


    After taking his seat, Ernst reached over and served Brenna a piece of ribs. "Eat more."


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    Giselle watched them closely, feeling anxious as silence hung between the siblings, neither mentioning the past.


    She cleared her throat, breaking the silence. "Next Wednesday is Brenna''s birthday. You should n something special for her," she said to Ernst.


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    Ernst hesitated, then cautiously voiced his concern. "Mom, Brenna''s birthday ising up next Wednesday. Maybe it''s not a good idea to invite Rosie to her birthday party."


    His voice was a blend of indifference and mild irritation. While he felt sympathy for Rosie being orphaned, his sympathy had its limits. He wasn''t willing to ignore her bad behavior or allow her to harm his sister.


    Giselle sighed and said, ¡°Unfortunately, we need to invite her. Rosie is still part of the Harper family, and she practically grew up by my side. Excluding her openly would upset your grandparents. Despite her mistakes, she deserves some sympathy."


    Brenna was displeased with this, but she understood her mother''s concerns and the difficult position she was


    in, so she chose to remain silent.


    Ernst''s brow furrowed with visible irritation. "Rosie might just cause another scene. Plus, she has been hospitalized for twenty days with a broken leg, so moving around could be difficult for her. Perhaps we could find a way to exin her absence to the guests about not letting here?"


    y turned cold.


    Ciselle had visited Rosie a few times recently, but her attitude toward her had not. Whenever Rosie suggested moving back in to be cared for, she always found an excuse to re¨ªus- her.


    The reason was that she had already seen Rosie''s true nature.


    "Perhaps we could offer a courtesy invitation to Rosie," Giselle suggested. "We can pretend to invite her, and she''ll probably decline, saying it''s inconvenient for her to move in her current state."


    Ernst nodded in agreement. "That would work. After everything she has done, she should recognize the position she''s in. If she knows that, she''ll likely decline."


    Brenna quietly observed the exchange and noticed a change in how Ernst viewed Rosie. He had finally stopped blindly defending her. It appeared Ernst had just been under Rosie''s maniption before.


    Brenna spoke up firmly. "If she attends and disrupts the party, I''ll ensure she faces the consequences."


    This time, Ernst did not rush to Rosie''s defense. Instead, he said, "I''ll stay out of the matter, Brenna. I misjudged her and didn''t see your side before. That won''t happen again."


    Brenna offered an awkward smile. "I just hope that you don''t hold a grudge against me, Ernst. After all, you left the Harper Group because of the situation with me."


    Ernst didn''t hold a grudge against Brenna Even though he had stepped down as CEO of the Harper Group, people in the business circle still didn''t dare to underestimate him. In fact, his team now found it easier to close deals than before.


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    The reason was simple. Ernst might have left the Harper Group, but he was still a Harper and the rightful heir of the family. That wasn''t going to change.


    Using the connections he had built when he had been the CO of the Harper Group, he pushed his ownpanies into new heights.


    "Don''t worry, I don''t hold a grudge," Ernst reassured Brenna. "I indeed made


    some mistakes before. I''ve joined an executive leadership program to improve my skills. When I return to be the CEO of the Harper Group, I intend to surpass Dalton."


    Giselle''s joy was clear as she watched her children reconcile.


    She said, "Next Wednesday, for Brenna''s birthday, I''m inviting some old friends, and they''ll be bringing their daughters, all of whom are very aplished. Ernst, you can pick one you like then."


    Ernst''s face darkened instantly. "Mom, we shouldn''t treat people as options to select from. Plus, I already have


    someone I like."


    Giselle was displeased. "I''m aware of your rtionship with your secretary, Sabine, who now lives with you. I think she''s only after your money. I don''t approve of you two being together."


    Brenna observed the conversation with a subtle smile, choosing to remain silent.


    Ernst spoke up strongly in defense of Sabine. "Mom, whether she''s after my money or not, I like her. How can you be sure the daughters of your friends aren''t also interested in my wealth? I don''t have any emotional bond with them. Why would you think they''d be interested in dating me? Would they still look my way if I were neither wealthy nor handsome?"


    Brenna chuckled and said, "That''s a valid point, Mom. Why not invite Sabine this We yourself?"


    Ernst hadn''t expected Brenna to speak up for him and shed her a grateful smile.


    day and see for


    Although Sabine came from humble beginnings, she was not only highly capable but also truly dedicated to Ernst. Her love for him was real, and she was willing to go to great lengths for him, even if it meant standing against Brenna.


    Giselle let out a frustrated sigh, clearly displeased.


    Brenna yfully suggested to Giselle, "Maybe you should try offering her a million dors to leave Ernst and see what she decides?"


    Caught off guard but intrigued, Ernst agreed, "Indeed. That''s an interesting test. I''ll bring Sabine along on Wednesday. I''m sure you''ll change your mind once you meet her."


    As Giselle stayed silent, Ernst continued, "You are not thinking that just because Sabine is from an ordinary family, she is unworthy of being with me, right? With your progressive views, why would her social status matter?"


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    Following Giselle''s instructions, Brenna had avoided going to the studio on Wednesday, hoping to prevent another mishap like the one at the return banquet, where herte arrival had caused unnecessary misunderstandings.


    Determined to stay on top of her workload, Brenna spent Tuesday night working tirelessly, pushing herself until the early hours. She finally sumbed to exhaustion and copsed into bed at three in the morning.


    By the time Brenna awoke, it was well past noon, and her stomach growled in protest. Quickly throwing on some clothes, she made her way downstairs in search of something to eat.


    Meanwhile, preparations for the evening''s birthday party were well underway. Giselle had spared no expense, hiring three professional chef teams-one for the main courses, one for appetizers, and another one for desserts. Each team came equipped with its own specialized tools and had set up a temporary kitchen at the farthest corner of the Harper family''s sprawling state.


    Amid this flurry of preparation, with staff darting between decorations and deliveries, Brenna''s quiet descent went unnoticed.


    She soon found the family''s head chef still orchestrating lunch service, the meal not ready yet.


    Julia, now promoted to housekeeper, spotted Brenna and approached her with a friendly smile. "Miss Harper," she said, her tone warm. ¡°Mrs. Harper hasmissioned elite culinary experts for tonight''s event, including Shirie''s most celebrated pastry chef. They''re all set up in the garden; would you like to take a look?"


    Brenna''s interest was immediately piqued. She nodded, eager to see what they were preparing.


    Upon entering the garden, she saw the chefs busy with their preparations. The teams for the main courses and appetizers were still working with ingredients, and none of the dishes were ready yet.


    However, the dessert team hadpleted a selection of delicate treats, already arranged and waiting to be


    served.


    As Brenna took in the scene, a familiar voice spoke from behind her. "Ensure the desserts are properly stored in the fridge. We can''t risk losing their freshness orpromising their quality."


    Brenna turned, her eyes widening slightly as she saw Rosie sitting in a wheelchair with her legs wrapped in


    casts.


    For a moment, she couldn''t help but let out a small, exasperatedugh. "You''re injured like this, and you are still here to attend the party?"


    Rosie met Brenna''s gaze, her eyes softening with an unexpected sincerity. "Brenna, you are here. I''ve had a lot


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    of time to reflect on my actions regarding the Harper Group designpetition, and I''ve realized how wrong I was. I asked Mom for a chance to make amends, and I am here to help with the preparations."


    Brenna moved toward the fridge, casually pulling out a freshly made cake and digging into it with a fork, her eyes narrowing as she looked at Rosie. "In your condition, do you really think you''re helping anyone? All you''re doing is making things more difficult here. If you truly want to help, leave this ce. Thest thing you need is for something to fall on you, and then, you''ll be stuck in your wheelchair for good."


    She didn''t believe Rosie had truly changed.


    Rosie looked at her, and a flicker of hurt passed through her eyes. "No, I swear, I won''t be a bother. I mean it -I''ve really changed. I even went as far as to order a dress and arranged for the best makeup artist in Shirie for you. They should be here soon. I genuinely hope you''ll forgive me for everything."


    Brenna, uninterested in continuing the conversation with her, took her te and turned to leave without another word.


    The moment Brenna was out of sight, Rosie''s expression turned cold. Her hands gripped the armrests of her wheelchair so tightly that her knuckles turned white. She had done everything she could to make amends, but Brenna barely acknowledged her efforts. Why did she have to work so hard to please her?


    Rosie pressed a button on her chair to move to a quieter spot, pulling out her phone with a determined look. She typed quickly, her fingers moving swiftly across the screen. "You are not here yet. Why the dy?"


    The reply came promptly. "Sorry, there''s traffic. I''ll be there in an hour, but don''t worry, it won''t dy anything."


    Rachael stepped out of the living room with aposed expression, her movenients deliberate as she approached Rosie. Leaning down, she whispered softly, "Everything is in ce. There''s no need to worry."


    Brenna returned to the dining room, eating slowly as Julia approached her. With a hushed tone, Julia said, "Miss Harper, Rachael''s back. She was deep in conversation with two maids for quite some time. I have a feeling they''re scheming something. Do you think she could be holding a grudge after being dismissed and try to cause trouble now?"


    Brenna considered the possibility, her eyes narrowing as she processed Julia''s words. "It''s definitely a possibility. Keep an eye on her and Rosie, and let me know if they do anything suspicious."


    She knew Rosie well enough to understand she wouldn''t easily ept defeat. Rosie''s sudden return and eagerness to help felt far too odd, and Brenna couldn''t shake the suspicion that something was off.


    Though Brenna doubted Racheal and Rosie would go as far as poisoning the


    food, her curiosity about Rosie''s intentions was piqued.


    She said to Julia, "If you notice anything unusual, don''t do anything. Just let me know quietly."


    Julia nodded in agreement before returning to her duties.


    Outside, a white car glided to a stop in front of the house. Ellie stepped out with graceful precision, bringing a handbag with her and gently holding her son''s hand as they walked toward the entrance.


    Brenna set her cake down gently and approached Ellie with a warm smile. "You made it! I''m so d you''re


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    "Happy birthday!" Patrick eximed, holding out a small box to Brenna with both hands, his face beaming with


    excitement.


    Touched by his gesture, Brenns crouched down and gently ruffled his hair, a softugh escaping her. "The desserts are over there. Help yourself to anything you like, and don''t hesitate to ask the chef for more if you


    Want"


    She then turned and called for Julia, signaling for her to take care of Patrick and make sure he feltfortable.


    As Brenna led Ellie upstairs, Ellie''s face lit up with anticipation. "I brought you something special-a dress 1 designed just for you."


    At that moment, a sleek silver-gray car pulled up at the entrance. A graceful, middle-aged woman stepped out, her demeanor dignified. She approached the entrance and said politely, "Is this the home of Miss Brenna Harper? I''vee to deliver some dresses."


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    Rosie lingered in the dessert kitchen area and hadn''t left yet. From her position, she saw the business car parked at the entrance where the female store manager stood, politely holding tworge bags.


    At the sight, a smile began to form on her lips. She was certain that once Brenna put on one of those dresses, something unfortunate was bound to happen.


    Not far from Rosie, Julia walked with Patrick just a few meters from the kitchen. She looked at Patrick and instructed, "Patrick, I need to check something. You can go to the dessert area; feel free to pick something to


    eat."


    Obediently, Patrick nodded and made his way to the dessert area alone.


    Upon reaching the entrance, Julia was surprised to see a middle-aged woman holding something for delivery politely,


    She observed that the tote bags bore the SNE logo, a brand renowned for its luxurious clothes, bags, and scarves. Giselle, however, hadn''t ced any orders for their products recently.


    Typically, Giselle preferred visiting the store to personally see and pick up the items, seldom opting for home delivery.


    Could it be that since today was Brenna''s birthday, Giselle had ordered dresses for her?


    If so, Giselle would have likely informed her to expect the delivery.


    Moreover, Julia remembered Brenna mentioning that her dress for the day was custom-made by her friend, indicating no ns to order externally.


    Approaching the woman, Julia courteously asked, "Hello, who might you be looking for?"


    The woman responded, "Hello, I''m the store manager from SNE. Is this Miss Brenna Harper''s home?"


    With patience, Julia replied, "Indeed it is. How may I help you?"


    The store manager offered the bags to Julia, exining, "These dresses were ordered by Mrs. Harper from our store, two of them. Please, have a look."


    Instead of epting the bags, Julia reached for her phone to ask Brenna about this.


    "Miss Harper, there''s a delivery from SNE here with two dresses. Should I ept them?"


    Brenna answered calmly, "No, do not ept them. Neither my mother nor I has ced any orders for dresses."


    After hanging up the call, Brenna turned to Ellie and said, "It''s possible someone''s trying to curry favor with my mom"


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    #ille simplyughed and steered the conversation CANTIK


    At the entrance, Julis respectfully declined the delivery, whing "I wydote, beretter Mrs. Herger for Miss Harper has ordered any dresses. Could you please verify your retorts


    By then, Posle had arrived in her electre wheelchair and said, 1 was the one who ordered the dresses discussed it with Mom about ordering dresses for Brenna. It''s pose the don''t mention & to brenna pats, just ept the delivery and take it up to Brenna''s room"


    The store manager''s demeanor shifted to one of deep respect and politeness towards kode as the smiled 1 knew it! Our store doesn''t make errors, especially not with such a high-profile brand. Each ss here priced at over a hund thousand, and with two dresses, that nearly reaches half a million. How could we possibly


    EXT?"


    Her expression toward Julia hardened, her irritation clear as she extended the bags with amanding gesture "Take these inside right away. What are you waiting for? Isn''t today Miss Harper''s birthday? Can you afford to dy this?" She clearly thought Rosie was the owner of the Harper estate.


    Julia did not ept the bags, nor did she bother to offer a polite smile. "Mrs. Harper instructed me not to ept deliveries casually."


    The store manager, taking offense to Julia''s seemingly arrogant stance, retorted sharply, "What is this attitude? Didn''t you hear what Miss Rosie Harper said just now? Bring them inside immediately!"


    Julia responded with a smirk but did not move. She spected that the woman might be unaware of Rosie''s recent ousting from the Harper family.


    Rosie, annoyed by Julia''sck of respect, tried to assert herself. "Did you not hear me? Take them. My mother is aware of this order. Why the hesitation?"


    Julia, disliking Rosie''s condescending approach towards the staff in the house, maintained her poise and replied, "I will verify this with Mrs. Harper right now."


    A twinge of unease crept over Rosie. She had never really spoken to Giselle about this. All she had done was casually mention wanting to buy Brenna some dresses as an apology. And Giselle had turned down the idea.


    "There''s no need for you to call, I''ll handle it," said Rosie, quickly pulling out her phone, worried she might get exposed.


    Wearing a bright smile and putting on her sweetest voice, she called Giselle and said, ¡°Mom, I''ve already ordered two dresses for Brenna, and they''ve arrived. Should I send them up to her?"


    Giselle had spent the day at Shirie University, giving two public lectures, and had just wrapped up her work.


    When she heard what Rosie said, her mood soured. Hadn''t she made it clear there was no need for her to do that? Thest time Rosie had taken it upon herself to order dresses, the situation had turned into a mess, and Brenna had nearly ended up with nothing to wear. There was no way she could trust Rosie to handle the matter again.


    Thinking about the current tensions within the family, Giselle considered Rosie''s feelings and didn''t refuse outright. "Alright, you can have people take the dresses to Brenna "


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    Whether Brenna would actually wear them was not up to her.


    Rosie had switched the call to speakerphone Hearing that, she shed a smug


    grin at Julia. "You heard her,


    didn''t you? Now take the bags!"


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    Chapter 201 Try Them On


    Now


    Julia understood every word and picked up on the hesitance in Giselle''s tone. She opted not to reply directly but instead said, "Miss Brenna Harper has already arranged for a friend to craft her dress for today''s asion. It''s unlikely she will wear these two dresses even if they are brought to her."


    The manager scoffed, her expression filled with disdain. She said, "I mean no disrespect to Miss Brenna Harper''s friend, but these dresses are from renowned international designers. Each is worth hundreds of thousands of dors. They far surpass anything a typical tailor could create."


    Standing her ground, Julia challenged the manager, asking, "Are you looking down on Miss Brenna Harper''s


    friend?"


    With an arrogant tilt of her head, the manager retorted, "Those are your words, not mine. Perhaps Miss Brenna Harper''s friend is just an average tailor. The dress they made won''t be good. It surely can''t match the caliber of international brands."


    She gave Julia a dismissive look. "Lead the way quickly so I can personally deliver these dresses to Miss Brenna Harper. As a mere maid, you shouldn''t be dying this."


    Rosie, too, disyed a sense of superiority and disdain toward Julia, intentionally making the situation difficult


    for her.


    Julia felt infuriated. Although she worked as a maid for the Harper family, she respected her hard-earned position. The Harpers respected her, so why should someone from outside the family treat her with such arrogance?


    She said to the manager, "You''re merely a person who sells clothes, earning less than I do. Why should you have the privilege of seeing Miss Brenna Harper?"


    Rosie became furious. By insulting the person she had brought, Julia had also insulted her. She attempted to p Julia but, confined to her wheelchair, was unable to do that.


    She scolded Julia sharply, "Did you not hear me? Take her upstairs now. These dresses are crucial, as Brenna needs to wear one today. Any further dys, and I will ask my mother to fire you!"


    Julia no longer regarded Rosie as a member of the Harper family. She bluntly said, "Miss Rosie Harper, Miss Brenna Harper already made arrangements with her friend for the dress she will be wearing today. She won''t need these dresses, so let''s not bother her with this matter. Moreover, you are not a member of this family anymore andck the right to issue orders."


    Undeterred by Rosie''s anger, Julia remained firm.


    Rosie, seething with rage, hit the armrest of her wheelchair. "How dare you defy me?"


    10:56


    Julia was resolute. "I answer only to the Harper family. You are no longer part of the Harper family now."


    Rosie let out an irritated snort. "Come on," she said to the manager. "I''ll take you upstairs."


    Despite her reluctance and hatred for Rosie, Julia didn''t dare stop her and followed her to the third floor.


    When Brenna opened the door, she looked momentarily surprised before asking Julia, "Didn''t I already mention that I didn''t want these dresses? Why are they still being brought up?"


    Julia said directly, "Miss Rosie Harper insisted on bringing these up. She even belittled the work of your friend, iming she is merely a mediocre tailor."


    Julia raised an eyebrow and gave Rosie a sharp look, not backing down.


    Rosie, seething with anger, retorted, "How can you say something like that? You''re only a maid!"


    Julia was unfazed by Rosie''s outrage. Recalling Rosie''s previous stay in the house, she remembered how Rosie had often demeaned the staff with her harsh words and arrogant demeanor. Even after her departure, she still behaved as though shemanded authority here. It seemed Rosie still hadn''t realized her ce.


    Julia said, "My true employers are Mr. and Mrs. Harper, the two young masters, and Miss Brenna Harper. Miss Rosie Harper, you are merely a visitor here. You are crossing a line by treating me like I am beneath you."


    Brenna and Ellie couldn''t suppress theirughter, clearly amused by Julia''s candidness.


    Brennaughed lightly and addressed Rosie, saying, "Your manner of speaking really is unique. Nowadays, we strive for equality for everyone. She may be a maid, but she earns her keep by working here; she is not someone beneath you. Perhaps you ought to show a bit more respect."


    Despite her boiling anger, Rosie had to keep her emotions in check; she needed to stayposed for her n to humiliate Brenna to proceed.


    "Stop pretending to be so kind. She''s merely a servant. Why defend her? Let''s get to the point. Here are the two dresses I ordered for you. Try them on now," she said in amanding tone.


    The manager was a bit surprised. She now realized Rosie no longer held any sway in the Harper family and regretted her part in tampering with the dresses. After all, the potential consequences of offending the Harper family were daunting! Despite knowing this, she had no option but to adhere to Rosie''s directive since she had epted her money. Nervously, she presented the dresses.


    Brenna nced at the dresses and said, "No need. Just set them aside." She didn''t even ept the bags containing the dresses, giving Julia a silent signal.


    Julia let out a mocking scoff as she grabbed the two bags, dropping them carelessly onto the floor. She shot a scornful re at both the manager and Rosie. What difference did it make that they had carried the bags upstairs? Brenna hadn''t even spared them a nce.


    Rosie, overwhelmed by frustration, said to Brenna, "I spent a great amount of money on these dresses, and this is how you repay my kind gesture?"


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    Brenna couldn''t hide the spark of satisfaction dancing in her eyes as she watched Rosie fume. A slow smile curled on her lips as she said, "Remember my wee-back party? You ordered three dresses for me. And what happened? All three were mysteriously ruined. On such an important asion, I almost had nothing to


    wear."


    Her gaze locked onto Rosie''s, sharp and unwavering, as she said directly, "I''m not about to let you pull the same stunt again. What if you sabotage the dresses this time, too? Frankly, I don''t trust you."


    Rosie caught the sarcasmced in Brenna''s tone and rolled her eyes, shaking her head. "Really? Do you think I would be dumb enough to use the same trick twice? These two dresses are fine!"


    This time, she didn''t make the dresses fall apart at the seams, exposing skin with the slightest movement. Instead, she hade up with a new n to humiliate Brenna.


    Brenna let out a dryugh and spread her hands, clearly not believing her.


    Rosie''s eyes narrowed as she saw the two dresses on the bed, likely designed by Bre "Who exactly is your friend anyway? The dresses she made won''t be any good. If you she made in front of anyone, you would be theughingstock of the night."


    friend. She sneered, ared to wear the dress


    Ellie, who had been enjoying the drama from the sidelines, suddenly found herself pulled into it. She wasn''t happy about this at all.


    She stepped forward, snatched one of the dresses off the bed, and pointed firmly at the logo stitched on the chest. "I''m a designer and the founder of M&G. Take a good look at this before you speak nonsense."


    Her nostrils red as she added, "And the dress you are wearing right now? That is also designed by me."


    Rosie scoffed, her face contorting with disdain, "Stop pretending. Would a real M&G designer do something as shameful as having a child without even being married? You are pretty, but that''s about it. Do you think you can fool us by passing off a knockoff as the real deal? Do you take us all for fools?"


    Ellie retorted, "If you can''t tell quality when you see it, that''s on you."


    After saying that, she held the dress up in front of Rosie, the logo clearly visible. "Open your eyes and look. Is this real or just a knockoff?"


    Anyone familiar with M&G would instantly recognize the brand''s signature embroidery, the "M&G" letters, done with a special, intricate technique.


    Rosie''s eyes flickered to the dress, her expression shifting as she realized it was


    an authentic M&G piece. However, she refused to admit it. It wasn''t because she doubted Ellie''s words; it was because the thought of


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    Brenna''s friend being the famous designer and founder of M&G was something she couldn''t stomach.


    Brenna didn''t deserve to have such an influential friend.


    Besides, these two dresses were thetest designs, not yet released to the public. How could Brenna possibly be


    worthy of such exclusive clothes?


    A bitter resentment simmered within Rosie. She stared at Brenna for what felt like an eternity.


    Then, she turned her wheelchair and left without a word.


    Brenna let out a sharp snort and mmed the door shut with a loud bang.


    "Ignore her. Let us continue," she said to Ellie.


    Meanwhile, Rosie headed back to the dessert area, only to discover that Patrick had already devoured several slices of cake, clearly enjoying every bite.


    The fact that this charming boy was the son of Brenna''s friend added fuel to her already smoldering irritation. The humiliation she had just suffered left her with a need to vent her frustration on the child.


    She might not have been able to outwit Brenna, but surely she could handle a child, right?


    As she quietly mulled over how to deal with Patrick, something about his face sparked a flicker of recognition. He looked familiar, though she couldn''t quite ce where she had seen him before.


    Soon, it dawned on her that this was the boy from the photos Isabe had sent her.


    Instantly, she realized he was Jayceon''s illegitimate child. She clearly remembered the chaos at the Harper Group building when Brenna had been swarmed by the crowd, all because of this bo


    Jayceon had publicly acknowledged the child at that time.


    Everyone was curious about who the child''s mother was, but despite her best efforts, Rosie hadn''t uncovered anything before.


    Now, she knew who the boy''s mother was. The globally renowned M&G founder had a child out of wedlock. This would be a major scandal.


    In a rush of excitement, Rosie quickly pulled out her phone and snapped several photos of the boy.


    Patrick seemed to sense something and turned to nce at Rosie.


    Rosie quickly tucked her phone away, pretending to casually fiddle with it, all the while keeping a watchful eye on the boy from the corner of her eye.


    Unlike most children, Patrick had been raised in a hostile environment, which made him especially cautious. Feeling ufortable around Rosie, he clutched a piece of cream cake in his chubby hand and turned, the cake wobbling dangerously in his grasp.


    Suddenly, the cake fell from his hand andnded squarely on Rosie''s dress, the red and white cream making her already gaudy dress even more garish.


    Rosie was furious as she gazed down at her dress, which she had paid for herself and had worn for the first time. It had cost her a fortune.


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    Patrick''s face stayed the stands the za moment before mumbling, I''m sorry


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    10:56

 Chapter 203

    Chapter 203 I Want An Apology


    Patrick was no stranger to the term "little bastard". Back in Norview, several ssmates from his kindergarten had often called him that.


    He understood it wasn''t meant as apliment. His big eyes widened in anger as he looked at Rosie.


    Rosie scolded Patrick sharply, "Look at what you''ve done to my dress! This dress is worth tens of thousands of dors. Do you think you can afford topensate me?"


    Her expression darkened as she looked at her dress, her anger evident.


    Patrick pouted, already feeling annoyed by the prettydy he hadn''t liked to begin with. Now that she was scolding him, his irritation swelled. He tightened his little fists in frustration and shouted, "You''re so mean! You''re a bad woman!"


    He took a deep breath, plotting his next move as he eyed the cakes on the table.


    Recalling his mother''s advice that children shouldn''t always resort to fighting and shouldmunicate peacefully, he firmly said to Rosie, "You insulted me. I want an apology."


    Rosie, enraged, retorted, "By what right do you demand an apology from me? Compensate me for my dress


    first!"


    Patrick had intentionally stained her dress. He had already sensed her malicious intentions, especially when he had realized she had been secretly recording him. He didn''t know what she intended to do with the footage.


    He stood his ground. "You insulted me. Apologize."


    Rosie scoffed, finding the boy as irritating as his mother. Having been


    embarrassed by Ellie earlier and now facing this child''s defiance, she was furious.


    She sneered, "It was you who ruined my dress first.¡±


    Without hesitation, Patrick grabbed a cream cake from the table and smashed it into Rosie''s face.


    After doing that, he hurried away, only to collide with Julia. Without a word, he quickly shouted, "Run!"


    Julia, unclear about the specifics but hearing Rosie''s furious shouts from the courtyard, figured that Patrick had gotten into trouble.


    "What have you done?" she asked Patrick while following him


    She wasn''t concerned about Rosie retaliating With Brenna present, she doubted Rosie would be able to bully


    Patrick


    The two hurried into the elevator and ascended to the third floor. Once safe, Patrick detailed the entire


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    situation to Julia


    Julia didn''t see it as a significant issue, though it was indeed a bit troublesome the corded town wh suggested to Patrick, "We should inform your mom and grother shot this before that bad womenins about this"


    Patrick nodded and said, "Yes, let''s inform them first."


    The two of them pushed the door open, finding Brenna calmly exining trait of the Harper family to le


    "You might not be aware, but all the Harper family members share a hereditary allergy to mangpes. It''s something only our family knows. Even our household staff is in the dark about it. My dad insists it most remain a secret to prevent anyone from using it against us."


    While inspecting the two dresses delivered by Rosie, Ellie detected the scent of mango on the cors, suggesting the dresses had been smeared with mango juice.


    Her expression hardened. "Rosie is really malicious. We can''t allow her to get away with this."


    "Mommy, Brenna!" Patrick burst into the room, his eyes sparkling with mischief Seeing his expression, Ellie immediately sensed that something was wrong. He had the same look whenever he got into trouble at school or was up to no good. She gave his head a light tap. "What trouble have you gotten yourself into this time?"


    Patrick quickly told everything to Ellie. Then, he added, "That bad woman also called me names."


    From the hallway, Rosie''s furious voice could be heard. "Little bastard,e out!"


    "Ellie''s temper erupted immediately. She snatched up the dresses Rosie had brough another dress. Before Rosie entered, Ellie separated the dresses. .rubbed them against


    She marched over to confront Rosie, but when she saw Rosie''s face smeared with cream, she stopped herself from pping her, unwilling to get her hands dirty.


    "How dare you insult my son like that?" she asked sharply.


    Rosie''s anger red even more. In an attempt toin about Patrick, she had refused to let the servants wipe the cream off her face, but that only caused her to beughed at.


    "How did you raise your son? He threw cream at my face. If you won''t teach him manners, then I will," she said, reaching for Patrick.


    As she tried to grab Patrick, he dodged and sprinted away, nearly causing her to tip over in her wheelchair.


    Ellie stepped in her way. "You already insulted him for that. You two are even now."


    Unsatisfied, Rosie retorted, "My dress is expensive, and now, it''s ruined. You need topensate me!"


    She nced at the beige M&G dress on the bed, feeling a strong desire for it.


    Ellie threw the dresses Rosie had brought back at her. "Then you can take these dresses back now!"


    Rosie pointed at the beige dress and said, "I want that one."


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 Chapter 204

    Chapter 204 Falling For Their Trap


    Brenna and Ellie exchanged nces, each struggling to hold back theirughter.


    From Rosie''s reaction, they were certain of their suspicions. The two dresses sent by the manager clearly had problems, which exined Rosie''s refusal to ept them.


    Rosie was stubborn about taking the two dresses Ellie had designed for Brenna, which was exactly what they had anticipated.


    However, Brenna knew that if Rosie acquired Ellie''s designs without difficulty, she might suspect a trap.


    Thus, Brenna firmly refused Rosie''s request, saying, "Absolutely not. These are exclusive designs Ellie crafted specifically for me. They are unique. Why should I hand them over to you?"


    Rosie persisted, her tone harsh as she said, "Your son caused this mess! My dress is ruined; I can''t be seen like this. Why shouldn''t youpensate me?"


    Her eyes scanned the four dressesid out on the bed, scheming to force Brenna dresses from the store manager. Suddenly, an idea came to her.


    caling one of the


    She maneuvered her wheelchair closer, snatched the red dress designed by Ellie, and hastily used it to clean the cream from her face.


    Brenna and Ellie reacted too slowly to stop her, and both were visibly angered by this.


    But the damage was done; the red dress was now stained with cream.


    Rosie, smirking, dropped the ruined dress on the floor and lifted the beige one. "I''ll take this one," she said.


    She hummed contentedly, reveling in the frustration evident on Ellie''s and Brenna''s faces.


    She then wheeled herself towards the door of the adjacent room, the one she had previously upied.


    As she entered the room and closed the door behind her, she muttered under her breath, "Thought you could outsmart me? You''re still too naive, Brenna. What does it matter if you''re friends with the founder of M&G? You''re still being yed by me. You''ll soon get allergic. Let''s see how you celebrate your birthday in the hospital!"


    Back in Brenna''s room, Brenna and Ellie shared a look of victory.


    Meanwhile, Julia stood bewildered, holding the ruined red dress. "Miss Harper, this dress is ruined. What should we do? The birthday party starts in just three hours."


    In her view, Brenna''s dresses were exceedingly valuable, far too delicate for any conventional cleaning. These high-end dresses were almost like single-use items; many couldn''t withstand even one wash without shrinking


    A na


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    Chapter 204 Falling For Their Trap


    or losing their shape.


    Brenna appeared unruffled by the situation. She passed the three dresses to Julia and said, "Don''t worry, three hours is more than enough. Just wash and dry these dresses. They''ll be ready to wear in no time."


    Julia epted the dresses, a bit uncertain. "Alright, but I might not be able to iron them as well as a professional would."


    Ellie nodded, saying, "That''s okay. I chose durable fabrics for my designs; the dress I designed can be washed. As for the two dresses from SNE with mango juice on them, Brenna can''t wear those. If you''d like, they''re


    yours."


    Julia''s spirits lifted instantly. She gazed at the dresses joyfully and responded eagerly, "Thank you! I don''t have a mango allergy, so I''ll dly wear them!"


    The two dresses were expensive. Even if she paid to have them dry-cleaned, it would still be worth it.


    Soon, Brenna and Ellie headed to the dining room for lunch. At that moment, Rosie reappeared from the adjacent bedroom, having removed the cream from her face and changed into the beige dress, looking quite satisfied with herself.


    Brenna even offered her apliment, saying, "That dress looks quite nice on you."


    Rosie, caught off guard by Brenna''s casual attire, asked her, "Why haven''t you changed into your dress yet?"


    Brenna responded casually, "Why the rush? The party isn''t starting right away. I don''t want to risk getting the


    dress dirty."


    Rosie huffed dismissively and wheeled herself towards the elevator.


    Brenna and Ellie used the stairs. Ellie, noticing that Rosie''s mango allergy hadn''t shown any signs yet, grew concerned. "Do you think the mango juice won''t be strong enough?" she asked.


    Brenna reassured her with augh, "Just give it some time. It should take effect soon."


    Ahead, Patrick happily skipped down the stairs, tossing a paper airne that soared all the way to the living room on the first floor. He chased after it.


    Ellie expressed her frustration, hoping for a quick resolution. "I really hope her allergy acts up soon so she can leave. Her presence just ruins the atmosphere.¡±


    After a pause, she continued, clearly annoyed, "It''s like she returned solely to cause trouble and upset you. She knows she''s unwee here, but she still came back. It''s so irritating."


    In front of her trusted friend, Brenna didn''t conceal her feelings. "I can''t stand her, either. If she continues to bother me, I''ll stop being nice to her."


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 Chapter 205

    Chapter 205 You''ll Have To


    Leave


    Rosie and Brenna were the only Harpers at home for lunch, as the rest of the family was still out, leaving them alone except for the servants.


    Rosie handled her utensils with elegance, embodying the demeanor expected of someone from a distinguished family. She sat upright and couldn''t help but look down on Brenna''s more rxed dining style, considering it unsuitable for someone of her status. Rosie thought such behavior at Brenna''s birthday banquet would surely be a topic of mockery.


    After finishing her lunch with grace and efficiency, Rosie felt a slight itch at the back of her neck. It was a small irritation, nothing that seemed concerning.


    She expressed her annoyance about the household staff. "Why are there still mosquitoes in here? The staff are really neglecting their duties."


    She was certain that the M&G brand dress she was wearing had been meant for Brenna. Since she trusted that Brenna wouldn''t have tampered with it, she had put it on without a second thought. She never even considered the chance of a mango allergy.


    Brenna showed little interest in interacting with Rosie, merely offering a brief, indifferent look before she and Ellie went upstairs. The birthday party was fully organized by Julia, requiring no effort from Brenna.


    Meanwhile, Rosie felt slighted seeing Brenna walk away without saying anything to her, which stirred a mix of


    difort and irritation within her.


    The itch on her neck intensified, leading her to scratch her skin aggressively. The irritation spread quickly, and upon looking at herself in a mirror in the living room, she was shocked to see her neck red and swollen.


    Realization hit her-it was a mango allergy reaction!


    "Ah-" she cried out, her breath shallow as she gasped for air, struggling to catch it.


    A maid dropped the fruit she was holding and rushed to Rosie''s side, concerned. "Miss Harper, what''s wrong?"


    Realizing the dress was the issue, Rosie grew furious. This had to be Brenna''s doing!


    "I... I am having an allergic reaction to mango..." she managed to utter, the symptoms worsening rapidly as the redness and swelling extended to her shoulders and arms, causing intense itching.


    The household staff, caught off guard, quickly called for an ambnce.


    Desperate, Rosie cried, "Help me... Help me..." She was frustrated by her repeated failed attempts to undermine Brenna. Every time she tried to harm Brenna, she was the one who ended up suffering.


    Upstairs, Brenna remained in her room, indifferent to themotion below as the ambnce took Rosie away.


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    "Finally, that nuisance is gone," Brenna said coldly, showing no empathy toward pre


    Ellie gave a dismissive sport beside her. "She deserved it."


    Meanwhile, in the ambnce, Posie was fighting for her life but still managed to make a call. "If you don''t seed in embarrassing Brenna today, consider your career in the makeup industry over


    At three in the afternoon, the makeup artist arrived at the Harper family residence


    He was an eye-catching figure, d in a bright floral shirt, Bermuda shorts, and a trendy headscarf, radiating a sense of style. He confidently walked into the Harper family''s house, his assistant following behind


    "Is Miss Harper here? I''vee to do her makeup," he said.


    Julia, who had just finished ironing Brenna''s dress and delivering it to her, was surprised by his appearance Although somewhat startled, she said politely, "Are you the makeup artist? Miss Harper already has someone assigned for her makeup, so you''re not needed today. But rest assured, you will still get paid." The makeup artist was displeased to hear that. "What do you mean?"


    He wasn''t here just for makeup, Rosie had hired him for something more.


    Julia said, "No offense, but you weren''t hired by Mr. or Mrs. Harper, or by Miss Brenna Harper herself. You were invited here without her approval. I''m sorry, but you''ll have to leave."


    Realizing the predicament, the makeup artist understood that Rosie had arranged this without the Harper family members'' consent.


    Attempting to rectify the situation, he smiled, trying to persuade Julia, saying, "Look, I''m the top makeup artist in Shirie. My clients, many of whom are celebrities, often say my work is as transformative as stic surgery. I''m sure Miss Harper would be thrilled with the results."


    His demeanor remained professional as he added, "Please, just speak with Miss Harper about this. I''m confident I can make her stand out tonight."


    Julia, slightly swayed by his pitch, decided to go upstairs to discuss it with Brenna.


    In the meantime, the makeup artist, Bingham Acosta, surveyed the Harper family''svish living room. The room alone wasrger than his entire apartment and was decorated with a refined taste that spoke of luxury. His eyes caught a decorative oil painting on the wall, and he immediately recognized it as the work of a famous artist. That single piece was likely worth a fortune.


    A painting like that was as expensive as a house.


    The longer he looked around, the more he felt the stark contrast in their lives.


    And he thought of the Harper family''s daughter celebrating her birthday today. She would be wearing a tiara valued at over a billion dors; he reflected on how he could never amass such wealth in his entire lifetime. Indeed, life seemed overwhelmingly unfair.


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 Chapter 206

    Chapter 206 Swap


    In Brenna''s bedroom on the third floor, she was absorbed in replying to Ethan''s messages. She had just discovered that he had been in Norview for the past few days. Since today was her birthday, he had timed his return perfectly and aimed to arrive at the Harper family''s residence by seven in the evening to celebrate with her.


    Julia stood nearby, patiently waiting for Brenna to finish texting before exining why she was here.


    Yet, she couldn''t shake the feeling that she hadn''t approached the situation well, especially since Ellie was already prepared to do Brenna''s makeup.


    Just then, Ellie''s phone rang. She answered it quickly and responded after a brief pause, "Alright, I''ll try to have the design draft ready within the hour for you to review."


    When she hung up, she shrugged and said, "Talk about perfect timing, I have a draft to finish, and the client''s breathing down my neck. Since you already have a talented makeup artist here, you can let him do the makeup for you."


    Brenna nced at her. "Alright." She turned to Julia. "Julia, please bring the makeup artist up."


    Julia nodded respectfully and left. Momentster, Bingham appeared, carrying two makeup cases.


    It was Bingham''s first time meeting Brenna, and he was struck speechless by her beauty. Even without makeup. she was the kind of woman whomanded attention effortlessly. With the right touch of makeup, she would


    be nothing short of breathtaking.


    "Miss Harper, your beauty is truly extraordinary," Bingham said, his voice sincere. His gaze briefly drifted to the table, where the diamond tiara rumored to have cost a fortune rested as though it were something trivial.


    The tiara was encrusted with countless pure diamonds that shimmered brilliantly in the sunlight, disying a stunning reflection of luxury.


    Bingham couldn''t take his eyes off the tiara for a full minute before he finally snapped back to reality.


    Meanwhile, Brenna pretended not to notice that, her eyes on her phone as she typed and her colleagues at the studio. In just two hours, they would all be arriving.


    *


    quick replies to Ethan


    "Let''s get started," Brenna said, her voice calm, waiting for Bingham to regain hisposure.


    Snapping back to the moment, Bingham smiled sheepishly, set the cases on the table, and began unpacking. He opened the cases, pulled out a stand, and secured the makeup box onto it.


    When he looked at Brenna''s wless skin, he couldn''t help but say, "Miss Harper, your skin is phenomenal. It''s smooth and absolutely wless. I have never seen anything like it. Your features are symmetrical and exquisite. Truly impable."


    Although he was doing his best to tter her, his gaze repeatedly wandered back to the tiara.


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    Brenna wasn''t especially fond of Bingham, finding his constant ttery a bit annoying.


    She paid him little attention, offering only the asional half-hearted reply to his attempts at conversation.


    Bingham''s skill with makeup was undeniable. Under his expert hands, Brenna''s beauty was elevated even further, and her hair was styled into a sophisticated updo.


    Bingham gently lifted the tiara from the table and turned to Brenna, "Mi Harper, shall I ce the crown on


    you now?"


    Brenna gave a faint nod, barely looking up.


    Bingham had already noticed that the surveince cameras were only in the living room and kitchen, not in the bedroom. The other girl in the room was too absorbed in adjusting a design draft on herputer to pay him any attention.


    Brenna was also preupied, her attention fixed on replying to work messages on her phone.


    Seizing the moment, Bingham swiftly opened a ck box from his case and retrieved a nearly identical tiara. With practiced ease, he swapped the imitation for the authentic diamond tiara, putting the genuine one securely inside the ck box.


    He was certain no one had seen him and was confident his actions had been smooth.


    When he turned back, Brenna remained engrossed in her phone, her fingers flying across the screen.


    Letting out a relieved breath, he steadied himself. As long as no one saw him doing that, everything would be


    fine..


    Withposed ease, he ced the fake tiara on Brenna''s head.


    The imitation was a wless replica, identical in every way except for one crucial detail. The diamonds were nothing more than high-quality ss. But without a microscope, even an expert would struggle to tell the


    difference.


    If he managed to deliver the real diamond tiara to Rosie, he would walk away with


    a reward of five hundred thousand.


    This was his first time doing something like this, and the pressure made his hands tremble.


    As he adjusted the tiara, he identally tugged on Brenna''s hair.


    Brenna winced in pain.


    Bingham quickly apologized, "I''m so sorry, Miss Harper. I didn''t mean to hurt you."


    Brenna''s voice remained calm. "It''s alright. By the way, my cousin ising overter. She heard you are here and would like you to do her makeup. Could you stay here a little longer?"


    Bingham hesitated, reluctant to stay any longer. The more time he spent there, the greater the risk of the tiara swap being discovered.


    "Well... You only paid for one person''s service," he said.


    Brenna remained unfazed. "Don''t worry. You will get paid for your extra service."


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    < Chapter 206 Swap


    Brenna wasn''t especially fond of Bingham, finding his constant ttery s bit annoying


    She paid him little attention, offering only the asional half-hearted reply to his attempt


    Bingham''s skill with makeup was undeniable. Under his expert hands, Brenna''s beauty was devust even further, and her hair was styled into a sophisticated updo.


    Bingham gently lifted the tiara from the table and turned to Brenna. "Marper, shall 1 ce the crows os


    you now?"


    Brenna gave a faint nod, barely looking up.


    Bingham had already noticed that the surveince cameras were only in the living room and Yachen, not in the bedroom. The other girl in the room was too absorbed in adjusting a design draft on herputer to pay he


    any attention.


    Brenna was also preupied, her attention fixed on replying to work messages on her phone


    Seizing the moment, Bingham swiftly opened a ck box from his case and retrieved a neatly Heated Ser With practiced ease, he swapped the imitation for the authentic diamond tiara, putting the genite one securely inside the ck box.


    He was certain no one had seen him and was confident his actions had been smooth


    When he turned back, Brenna remained engrossed in her phone, her fingers flying across the screen


    Letting out a relieved breath, he steadied himself. As long as no one saw him doing that, everything would be


    fine..


    Withposed ease, he ced the fake tiara on Brenna''s head.


    The imitation was a wless replica, identical in every way except for one crucial detail. The diamonds were nothing more than high-quality ss. But without a microscope, even an expert would struggle to tell the


    difference.


    If he managed to deliver the real diamond tiara to Rosie, he would walk away with


    a rewa


    thousand.


    This was his first time doing something like this, and the pressure made his hands tremble.


    As he adjusted the tiara, he identally tugged on Brenna''s hair.


    Brenna winced in pain.


    Bingham quickly apologized, "I''m so sorry, Miss Harper. I didn''t mean to hurt you."


    Five Bandred


    Brenna''s voice remained calm. "It''s alright. By the way, my cousin ising overter. She heard you are here and would like you to do her makeup. Could you stay here a little longer?"


    Bingham hesitated, reluctant to stay any longer. The more time he spent there, the greater the risk of the tiara swap being discovered.


    "Well... You only paid for one person''s service," he said.


    Brenna remained unfazed. "Don''t worry. You will get paid for your extra service."


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    Still trying to refuse, Bingham said, "I''m sorry. I have other appointmentster. I''m


    really pressed for time"


    Brenna nced up at him, catching the unease in his posture. His eyes darted nervously as he avoided her gaze.


    ncing at his watch, Bingham added anxiously, "Miss Harper, I really have to go now."


    "Alright, I won''t keep you any longer," Brenna replied politely.


    Bingham gathered his things and left as quickly as possible.


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 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 207

    7


    Chapter 207 Remember Your Promise To Me


    At the entrance, Bingham offered a polite smile to Julia, who had stepped outside


    to bid him farewell. They shook hands, and then, he climbed into the car with his assistant.


    The assistant appeared even more nervous than Bingham, worrying over the possibility of getting caught by the Harper family.


    As soon as they were safely inside the car and had driven a bit, the assistant exhaled deeply and patted his chest. "Bingham, that was terrifying. I was really worried we''d be caught and end up in jail."


    Bingham, although previously anxious, now felt relieved. "She is attractive but not cautious at all. What a fool!"


    He took out his phone and dialed Rosie. "Rosie, I''ve got it."


    On the third floor of the Harper family''s house.


    Ellie and Brenna shared a nce that said they both understood the situation.


    Ellie asked, "Who do you think was behind him? Rosie or Viper?"


    At that moment, Ellie received a message saying the order no longer needed to be rushed and could be submitted ording to the original schedule.


    She showed the message to Brenna. "Look at this. All these plots for a diamond tiara, and I got pulled into it, too. I was ready to do your makeup, and then, out of nowhere, they rushed the order, and Bingham turned up exactly when he was needed. Doesn''t that seem a bit too orchestrated?"


    Brenna''s face grew cold. "It''s definitely orchestrated, but they won''t stop trying if they fail. Ever since I received that crown, three different groups have tried to infiltrate our home, all targeting it."


    Ellie''s expression showed concern. "Is there some secret about this crown?" Brenna shook her head dismissively. "I''m not aware of any secrets."


    Just then, Julia walked in, clearly unhappy. "Miss Harper, are we just going to let them walk away like that?"


    Brenna responded calmly, "Let him go. I''ve already arranged for someone to tail him and uncover who''s really


    behind this."


    Julia said, ¡°But Miss Harper, we know Bingham is a thief, and yet we let him leave. That seems too lenient. Shouldn''t we teach him a lesson?"


    She gripped her phone nervously. "Should I call the police? That diamond tiara is valued at 1.3 billion!"


    Brenna let out a softugh. "I didn''t let him seed in stealing the tiara."


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    Chapter 207 Remember Your Promise To Me


    Ellie then opened a drawer and retrieved a tiara.


    Julia realized that the tiara from the drawer was authentic She sighed in relief. "I was terrified he had actually taken it. I know that no matter how wealthy you are, you wouldn''t y around with something worth 1.3 billion, especially considering it was given to you by Mr. Mitchell."


    Brenna nodded and instructed, "Continue with your tasks. Our guests will be returning shortly."


    At that moment, car horns sounded from the yard. Brenna approached the window and looked down. Shepard, Ernst, and Dalton were arriving together, with Giselle following in her own car.


    Upstairs, Patrick, who had been napping, woke up, and he made his way downstairs with Brenna and Ellie


    Meanwhile, at the hospital, Rosie had just been moved out of the emergency room.


    In her hospital room stood Viper, Valeria, and Bingham.


    Valeria, leaning casually against Viper, her fiery red lips and captivating presence noticeable, eyed the box in Bingham''s hand.


    Bingham, admiring Valeria''s beauty from a distance, avoided staring too long due to Viper''s intimidating


    presence.


    He quickly opened the box for Rosie to see.


    Rosie, not knowing the item was a fake, nced at it briefly before passing the ck box to Viper. "This is what you asked for."


    Viper inspected the tiara within the box, affirming that the diamonds were genuine and the setting was of solid gold. He nodded, satisfied.


    Valeria, with a dismissive gesture, tossed a ck bag to the floor and kicked it towards Bingham. "Get out!"


    Bingham was worried they might harm him. He was unaware of Viper''s true identity but could sense his dangerous nature. He grabbed the bag of money and quickly left.


    Rosie, infuriated by being outsmarted by Brenna again, clenched her teeth. "I''ve done you a big favor.


    Remember your promise to me."


    Valeria replied, "Of course."


    She looked down on Rosie. In her view, Rosie was incapable, failing to deal with a


    woman.


    She considered it demeaning to coborate with someone so ipetent.


    She left with Viper, checking the tiara again to ensure its authenticity, skeptical of receiving anything genuine from someone as ineffective as Rosie.


    Rachael walked in, observing Rosie''s swollen form, still connected to an IV drip. Although Rosie was no longer in immediate danger, the swelling remained; it was expected to subside within the hour.


    Rachael set down clothes she had brought next to the bed, sighed deeply, and looked at Rosie with profound


    sympathy.


    She said, "Miss Harper, once you recover, will you return to the Harper family''s residence? After all you''ve


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    endured, you must seek revenge."

 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 208

    Chapter 208 Socializing


    As the evening sun set around six, guests started to arrive in session. Besides the many colleagues from Brenna''s two studios, the gathering was small-just Ableson''s family and three of Giselle''s close friends, who brought their children along.


    The three of Giselle''s friends were all aplished women holding prominent positions, which Brenna noticed immediately.


    "This is Mrs. Padi, an engineer at the National Research Institute. Her daughter, Greta, is attending a prestigious university," Giselle said with a warm smile as she introduced them to Brenna.


    Brenna found herself liking Giselle''s friend. Danika Padi was no ordinary guest; her attire was ssy, and she wore elegant sses, giving Brenna a measured smile that hinted at her friendly nature.


    "Hello, Mrs. Padi, Miss Padi. Nice to meet you both," Brenna said with a weing smile. Giselle was pleasantly surprised by her daughter''s warm reception, as Brenna usually maintained a reserved demeanor.


    Greta Padi, close in age to Brenna, dressed modestly and avoided fashionable trends. When she saw how stunning Brenna looked, her expression soured a little.


    Danika, experienced from her tenure at the National Research Institute, had encountered many talented individuals. She regarded Brenna with respect. "I saw your recent lecture for the Harper Group online; you were impressive, particrly in your discussion on intelligent driving and futuristic flying cars. Our institute even organized a seminar on those topics after your lecture. The director is so impressed by you that he is considering inviting you to speak at the National Research Institute."


    Brenna was taken aback by thepliment, feeling ttered. The National Research Institute''s experts were esteemed in the academic world; she believed she wasn''t worthy of giving a lecture to them.


    Greta couldn''t help but feel a flicker of difort as she took in Brenna''s aplishments. She had always stood out among her peers, nearlypleting her master''s degree at just twenty-one, while many of her age were still working through their undergraduate programs.


    Attending one of the country''s most elite universities had long given her a quiet confidence, a sense of being a step ahead.


    But today, encountering someone whose aplishments far outshone her own left her displeased. A part of her believed Brenna had embellished her credentials just a little too much.


    Greta said, ¡°Mom, she has only graduated for a few years. Maybe everything from her lecture came straight from her college textbooks? The National Research Institute already has many top-tier graduates from international


    universities."


    Brenna chose not to defend her credentials. ustomed to skepticism and underestimation, she had faced many rumors that she had advanced her career by currying favor with mentors.


    She simply offered a smile, choosing to remain silent.


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    Danika was a wise woman. After watching Brenna''s lecture, she recognized its excellence. Casting a stern look at her daughter, she said, "That''s not true. Brenna is indeed exceptional."


    She then turned to Brenna with a genuine interest as she said, "Brenna, when might you have some free time? How about next Monday? Our director is keen to meet someone of your caliber and would be thrilled to have you give a lecture at the National Research Institute."


    Brenna sensed the sincerity in the invitation-it wasn''t just a casual suggestion. She responded with a courteous smile, "I''ll consider it."


    Danika interpreted Brenna''s polite "I''ll consider it" as a sign of hesitance.


    Regardless of Brenna''s actual willingness about the matter, Danika took the opportunity to add her on WhatsApp, aiming to keep in touch.


    Giselle then moved on to introduce another friend. "This is Mrs. Richardson, who works at the stock exchange. This is her daughter, Lilith, who is studying finance."


    Naya Richardson was elegantly dressed, her slender wrist adorned with an expensive bracelet, a gold ne around her neck. Her navy blue dress was clearly from a high-end brand. She eximed with enthusiasm, "Giselle, your daughter is truly stunning."


    Brenna offered a polite greeting to her. She then noticed Lilith Richardson''s aloofness; she was wearing headphones and focused on her phone, showing no interest in talking to her.


    Brenna simply offered her a polite smile and moved on. Normally, she would just ignore someone like that. But today, she was being extra polite.


    Giselle introduced another friend. "And this is Mrs. Rodriguez, who works in customs."


    Brenna observed that Marceline Rodriguez had arrived alone and appeared serious. This prompted Brenna to moderate her approach, only saying, "Hello, Mrs. Rodriguez."


    Suddenly, a familiar voice called out from the doorway, "Brenna!" Brenna turned to see Ethan, whom she hadn''t seen in several days. He was still dressed in his usual ck suit, but his demeanor was unusually upbeat today. He wore a smile and was holding a bag.


    "Happy Birthday!" he eximed, handing Brenna the bag, his eyes gleaming with anticipation.


    Brenna was not surprised by his gesture. She looked inside the bag to find a white handbag, a limited edition that she had only seen in magazines previously.


    "Thank you; I love it," she said to Ethan.


    Ethan, noticing the diamond tiara on her head, smiled with satisfaction. "You look beautiful."


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    Chapter 209 You''re Amazing


    Brenna couldn''t help but notice that both Greta and Lilith were quite captivated by Ethan. They seemed unable


    to look away from him, particrly Greta, who stared at him intently for a


    prolonged period.


    Lilith, though briefly intrigued, soon reverted to focusing on her phone.


    Greta leaned towards her mother and whispered, ¡°Mom, I''m going to talk to Brenna and her friend now."


    Danika offered a small nod, deliberately ignoring the admiration shining in her daughter''s eyes. She knew her daughter all too well-her expectations were so high that even the brightest minds at the National Research Institute rarely caught her attention.


    So now that someone had finally caught her daughter''s eye, she naturally supported her daughter taking the


    initiative.


    "Go ahead," she said with a nod.


    Greta gave a small smile and approached Brenna, asking politely, "Brenna, would you introduce us?"


    Ethan, setting aside his usually rare smile, stood next to Brenna and extended his arm.


    Brenna linked her arm with his and introduced him to Greta. "This is Ethan, my boyfriend."


    Greta''s smile broadened as she reached out to shake Ethan''s hand, saying, "I''m Greta, a graduate student at Laguna Bay University. It''s nice to meet you. I''ve seen you on financial talk shows before. You''re quite a talented entrepreneur, and I really admire that."


    It was her first time expressing interest in a man, and she felt Ethan was a match for her in terms of excellence.


    She was confident in her looks, education, and family background, feeling she was better than Brenna in every


    way.


    She waited expectantly for Ethan''s enthusiastic response.


    However, Ethan''s reaction was neutral at best. He gave her hand a brief shake and then let go, his demeanor


    distant.


    Greta experienced a twinge of disappointment, unustomed to such a dismissive reaction.


    The disappointment flickered briefly before she brushed it aside. She reassured herself that it made sens someone as remarkable as Ethan to be unimpressed by her; he had surely crossed paths with countless brilliant individuals before. Still, she held onto the hope that with time and more chances to connect, he woulde to recognize that she was exceptional.


    Romance wasn''t something Brenna paid much attention to, but when it came to reading people, her instincts


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    Chapter 209 You''re Amazing


    were sharp. She had already picked up on the way Greta looked at Ethan-with clear admiration in her eyes.


    It made sense. Ethan was impressive in many ways-his looks, capabilities, and background. It was normal that many women liked him.


    "Happy birthday, boss!"


    "Happy birthday, Brenna!"


    Brenna''s colleagues from the studio arrived, led by Thiago, Joe, and Tommy. They were a crowd of casually dressed young people.


    Each one warmly greeted Brenna.


    "Hello, everyone."


    Brenna, glowing with confidence, introduced her colleagues from the studio to Giselle, Shepard, and her two brothers. Thiago, Joe, and Tommy exchanged handshakes and pleasantries with the Harper family members. Ernst was particrly taken aback. He recognized several of Brenna''s colleagues as finance professionals he knew, individuals who had contributed to internationally renowned journals. These were highly respected figures he had once tried to hire, only to be rejected. He was surprised to find them employed by Brenna.


    Greta was displeased. She recognized five of her senior schoolmates among those greeting Brenna, individuals who were exceptionally gifted and had consistently excelled academically, earning national and university schrships and receiving multiple job offers. Their level of achievement was something she felt she couldn''t match, not even in ten years.


    And yet, here they were, working for Brenna.


    What were they thinking?


    She watched them, her brow furrowed in confusion.


    How had Brenna managed to attract such remarkable talents to her team? Was Brenna really that extraordinary? Greta''s envy deepened.


    She was astounded by Brenna''s ability to assemble such a capable team at such a young age.


    She listened intently as Brenna introduced everyone on her team-not just the heads of the studios but even the regr employees-each with a resume more impressive than thest.


    With every word, Greta''s envy grew. Brenna wasn''t just exceptional; she was everything Greta dreamed of bing.


    Once Brenna finished introducing everyone and her colleagues began to mingle, Greta saw an opening and walked over to her. Though the words didn''te easily, she still managed apliment. "You''re amazing. Could we exchange contact information?"


    Brenna agreed without hesitation since she admired Greta''s talent.


    Just as Greta hoped to engage further with Brenna, Ethan escorted Brenna upstairs.


    Lilith then walked to Greta, leading her to the dessert area in the yard. She showed Greta her phone and said, "Did you see the tiara on Brenna''s head? It is adorned with high-quality diamonds and was purchased at an auction for 1.3 billion. Talk about being rich."


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    Greta''s face darkened. She had admired the tiara''s beauty earlier but had not


    grasped its staggering price


    She usually considered garments and essories priced in the thousands to be luxurious. Compared to Brenna,


    she felt quite ordinary.

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    Chapter 210 Br¨¦nna''s Image Is Crafted By The...


    Greta felt a sharp sting of bitterness in her chest, silently resenting the unfairness of fate.


    On the other hand, Lilith didn''t feel anything. Neither envy nor jealousy clouded her mind. However, she could tell something was off with Greta. The two had always been close, their contrasting personalitiesplementing each other.


    "Are you interested in Brenna''s boyfriend?" Lilith asked Greta.


    Greta huffed, folding her arms in frustration. "Even though I am interested in him, there''s nothing I could do about it. How can I possibly measure up to Brenna when ites to family background and talent?¡±


    Lilith grabbed her wrist and tugged her toward the courtyard. "Come on, let''s get something to eat. I heard the Harper family brought top-tier chefs from luxury hotels, and the ingredients are from overseas. It would be a waste not to try the food."


    Greta followed Lilith, looking in a bad mood. In the western corner of the courtyard, a brand-new barbecue station had been set up, with people gathered around, happily skewering their food and handing it over to the cook. Within minutes, the skewers were sizzling on the grill.


    The mouthwatering aroma of the barbecue drifted through the air, spreading in every direction.


    Standing at the bottom of the steps, Greta and Lilith nced back and forth at the tempting dishes, unable to make up their minds. Finally, they chose to have ice cream cake first and then barbecue.


    Greta kept sneaking nces toward the doorway, but Ethan was nowhere to be seen. She had hoped for a chance to talk to him more or maybe even exchange contact details with him.


    But more than thirty minutes had passed, and there was still no sign of Ethan. A sinking feeling crept in as Greta began to wonder if she would ever see him again. It was rare for her to like someone. She had just taken an interest in Ethan, only to realize they were from different worlds.


    If she wanted to get close to Ethan, it seemed she could only do that through Brenna.


    Lilith had noticed her distraction a while ago but chose not to say anything about it, focusing instead on the


    cakes.


    The courtyard was lined with tables overflowing with exquisite dishes.


    As her disappointment grew with every minute Ethan failed to appear, Greta finally let her frustration slin "Wasn''t Brenna raised in an ordinary family? How did she turn out so exceptional? Usually, someone with kind of sess would have had a lot of resources and support from their family. Her upbringing was pretty average. There is no way she should be this exceptional."


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    Lilith nodded. "Yeah, but she is. And on top of all that, she now has a powerful family and a boyfriend who is even more impressive. She is practically living the dream."


    Hearing this made Greta feel more jealous. Holding a slice of strawberry cake, she tilted her head and asked, "So, what do you think I should do to get Mr. Mitchell''s attention?"


    Although Lilith wasn''t interested in Ethan, she believed she knew what to do. "You will have to take the roundabout approach."


    Greta and Lilith exchanged a quiet, knowing smile, their unspoken understanding evident.


    Greta''s mood lifted noticeably. It felt good to know her friend supported her idea. "Tell me, don''t you think Brenna''s whole image is just something the Harper family carefully crafted? She looks like she is our age. There''s no way she could''ve aplished that much on her own already. Even the content she lectures on at the Harper Group feels like someone else prepared it. She probably just rehearsed it enough to make it sound like it was from her. Honestly, I don''t think she is that smart."


    Lilith was also notpletely convinced. It was hard to believe anyone could be that talented.


    She said, "Maybe. With the Harper Group''s resources and connections, it wouldn''t be impossible."


    Greta nodded enthusiastically. "Exactly. From what she said in her lectures, she has been working for about five years and has a master''s degree. That means she must have graduated at eighteen. Come on, that''s unbelievable. I think she is just the product of the Harper family''s carefully crafted image."


    Her voice lowered, her words dripping with doubt as she shared her thoughts with Lilith. "I heard her adoptive parents im she never even finished elementary school. I think there''s some truth to that. Brenna''s current image must have been crafted by the Harper family. Think about it. Everyone in the Harper family is exceptional. The second child is a top-tier celebrity, the eldest graduated from a world-renowned business school, and even Mrs. Harper is a university professor. If they had a daughter who never made it past elementary school, that''d be a huge hit to their reputation."


    "You are talking nonsense!" A sharp voice suddenly cut through the air, startling Greta.


    She spun around to see a strikingly handsome little boy, looking about six, standing beside a well-dressed man


    in a suit.


    The man''s eyes were cold and unfriendly as they locked onto her.


    Thiago wiped his hands with a napkin before speaking. "If you have any questions about Brenna, you should ask her directly. Don''t go gossiping behind her back. She is truly talented."


    Lilith retorted, "Eavesdropping on people isn''t exactly polite."


    With a dismissive snort, she added, "Oh, now I remember. You are Brenna''s studio partner. Of course, you


    would defend her."


    Thiago reached into his jacket pocket, pulled out a business card, and handed it to Lilith. "It''s better not to speak so carelessly in the future."


    Lilith nced at the card, then back at him. "Thiago Moreno? I''ll remember you."


    Seeing her like this, Thiago let out a small sigh and exined, "It''s true that Brenna didn''t finish elementary school. When she was living with the Barrett family, she started sketching design ideas at home after fourth


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    Chapter 211 One Of Them


    Has To Be Fake


    "Indeed, Greta. Miss Harper''s sess isn''t solely due to her family''s support," a young and handsome man suddenly said.


    Greta turned toward the speaker. It was Phillip Robles, the renowned academic talent from Laguna Bay University. She had always admired him. He was a


    person who could have joined a prestigiouspany but instead chose to work at Brenna''s studio. She didn''t understand him.


    She quickly greeted Phillip.


    Phillip''s lips curved into a faint smile as he continued, "Spend more time around Miss Harper, and you will realize she''s far more than just a gifted automobile designer."


    Greta nodded and said reluctantly, "Alright. I already exchanged contact information with Miss Harper. I really do want to be friends with her."


    She felt upset being criticized so openly, but she kept her demeanor polite and kind. She forced herself to listen attentively to thepliments about Brenna.


    Thiago''s praise for Brenna was one thing, but hearing the same praise from the people she looked up to as academic role models was different. She was unable to ept this.


    Was Brenna truly that impressive?


    She couldn''t bear the thought of a woman being both more talented and more beautiful than she was.


    She struggled to keep her smile in ce.


    "Miss Harper isn''t just brilliant. She is also stunning and genuinely kind- hearted..."


    She had heard so manypliments about Brenna today that it was starting to make her feel sick.


    Lilith nodded eagerly while munching away with obvious delight, seeing nothing wrong with all thepliments being showered on Brenna.


    After all, these people worked for Brenna, and it was natural that they praised their boss.


    "Miss Harper..." A distinct voice sliced through the chatter, drawing every gaze toward the entrance, where a couple had just arrived.


    1. e.


    The man was dressed in a crisp, white tailored suit that clung to his tall frame, exuding sharp e Clinging to his arm was a sultry woman in a tight, red mini-dress. Her voluminous curls cascaded over her shoulders, her lips painted a bold, fiery red. Her curvaceous figure turned heads the moment she stepped in. However, what grabbed everyone''s attention wasn''t just theirmanding presence but the diamond tiara the


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    woman wore. It looked exactly like the one Brenna had.


    Valeria ran her fingers over the diamond tiara resting on her head, a gestureced with an unmistakable


    provocation.


    Beside her, Viper stood rxed, hands tucked into his pockets, a cigarette dangling from his lips. Behind them, a dozen bodyguards in sleek ck suits and dark sunsses followed in tight formation, adding to the theatrics


    of their grand entrance.


    Clearly startled, the Harper family members hurried out of the house to see them. Whispers began to ripple through the crowd like a wave.


    "How can the tiaras be so identical?"


    "One of them has to be fake."


    When Brenna and Ethan stepped outside, they caught wind of the murmurs swirling through the crowd. Without a word, the two aligned themselves beside the Harper family, their gazes fixed on Viper and Valeria. "It''s rare for you to attend my birthday party, Viper. Wee," Brenna said coolly, her eyesnding on the diamond tiara atop Valeria''s head. Wasn''t that the replica Bingham had stolen from her?


    Ethan narrowed his eyes, also recognizing the tiara instantly. It was the custom replica he''dmissioned himself. Crafted from real diamonds and gold, it had cost him millions and matched the original to thest


    detail.


    At that moment, he finally realized who was behind the series of thefts at the Harper family''s estate.


    "Happy birthday," Viper said, retrieving a sleek ck box from the hands of a suited man behind him and opening it in front of Brenna.


    A collective gasp echoed as everyone saw whaty inside the box, and their opinion of Viper quickly worsened. It was Brenna''s birthday today, yet he brought her a pendant in the shape of a ck coffin.


    It was really rude.


    The Harper family bristled with anger. Shepard and Ernst knew Viper''s reputation well. As the infamous underworld boss of Shirie, Viper was known for his ruthlessness. No one caught in his web ever escaped


    unscathed.


    Despite their tight security and the swarm of bodyguards on-site, they couldn''t keep their guard up every day. They were genuinely fearful of offending Viper.


    Stepping forward, Shepard and Ernst positioned themselves protectively in front of the other family members. Shepard asked him, "What brings you here today, Viper?"


    Ethan and Brenna moved to stand beside them, their expressions as cold as ice as they fixed their Viper and Valeria.


    on


    Without a word, Ethan picked up the coffin pendant, tossed it to the ground, and crushed it beneath his polished shoe.


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    Viper''s face darkened, clearly displeased. The destruction of his gift, especially one he had gone to great lengths to acquire, did not sit well with him, even though he had brought the gift specifically to upset Brenna.


    "Mr. Mitchell, this was bought in Norview. It is worth millions. Is this how you treat the gift I brought?" he said.


    Brenna didn''t waste her breath on Viper. "Enough talk. If you have nothing else to say, leave."


    Valeria let out a mockingugh, her voiceced with scorn. "Miss Harper, h the Harper family''s wealth, how could they let you wear a fake tiara? Isn''t that embarrassing?"


    Brenna''s gaze hardened, her tone colder than ever. "It''s still unclear whose tiara is the fake. I saw Bingham steal that replica from me. Some people came here three times and still couldn''t get what they wanted, so they resorted to sending in a foolish makeup artist."


    Viper''s and Valeria''s expressions immediately changed when they realized they had been tricked.


    Valeria''s eyes shed with fury. "Impossible! I had it appraised. The diamonds and the gold of my tiara are real!"


    Ethan''s lips curled into a sneer. "So what? That doesn''t mean the tiara was the real deal. I never imagined Viper would let his woman wear a replica. Is he really so broke that he can''t afford the real thing?"


    Even now, neither Ethan nor Brenna could understand why Viper and Valeria were so determined to get the diamond tiara. What secret did it hold that made them go to such lengths to get it?

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    Chapter 212 There Is A Sniper


    Both Viper and Valeria were consumed by anger, but Viper felt it the most. His eyes hardened with fury as his hand slowly moved toward his belt, fighting the overwhelming urge to end Brenna''s and Ethan''s lives on the


    spot.


    "I dare you to say that again!" Viper''s voice growled, deep and threatening. For years, he had ruled over Shirie, earning the respect of the city''s most powerful people. No one had ever dared to insult him like that, especially not with so many people around.


    Today was undoubtedly the most humiliating day of his life.


    Ethan responded with a disdainful snort, "I can say it many times, and the truth remains the same. Viper, I can''t believe you''ve fallen so low, using a fake tiara, and a stolen one at that."


    Ernst quickly said, "Over and over, you''ve sent your goons to infiltrate my house, but you''ve never found the real thing. You''re not as impressive as you believe, Viper. Let me warn you-if you dare do something like that again, I''ll end you once and for all."


    At that moment, Viper''s hand was already on his gun when he spotted a figure on a nearby rooftop. A sniper rifle aimed at him. A shiver of fear ran through him.


    He realized that if he made a move, he probably wouldn''t even have time to draw his gun before he was shot.


    It drove him mad to see Brenna so calm. Her expression was nothing like what he had expected. Any other woman would have been terrified in such a tense situation.


    Ernst realized that Viper was going for his gun.


    Driven by instinct, he moved to stand before Brenna to shield her. How could he ever look anyone in the eye if he allowed his sister to be hurt while under his care? Wouldn''t that suggest anyone could walk all over the Harper family?


    Ethan also wanted to protect Brenna. He also took his position in front of her, preparing himself for a potentially lethal confrontation with Viper with his hand ready to pull out his gun.


    Brenna stood silently behind the two men. She hadplete trust in their ability to protect her.


    Greta watched the scene in awe, struggling to catch her breath. A deep longing filled her as she envied Brenna, so deeply loved and protected by both her brother and her boyfriend.


    ad


    Viper, ever sharp, quickly realized that Ethan was also carrying a gun. With a sly chuckle, he pulled hi back and changed his approach. "When ites to diamonds and gold, it''s all just little things women love. Why make such a big deal out of it? I''m here for Miss Harper''s birthday celebration. Is this really the kind of wee the Harper family offers? Aren''t you going to invite me into the house?"


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    Ethan and Ernst rxed a little, tension fading from their expressions.


    Ernst studied Viper''s behavior with suspicion, knowing that his reasons for being there had nothing to do with celebrating Brenna''s birthday. His voicecked any trace of warmth as he said, "You''ve brought all these


    bodyguards to a birthday party? To anyone who doesn''t know better, it looks more like you''re here to cause


    trouble than to celebrate."


    Without hesitation, Viper gestured, and his bodyguards, dressed in ck, skillfully left the Harper family estate, vanishing so swiftly that it was as though they had never been here before.


    Ethan looked at the diamond tiara on Valeria''s head, and his eyes narrowed in disapproval. He scoffed, "I didn''t know you had a habit of stealing. Can''t you afford a simple diamond tiara? Sending people to take it, Viper, that''s hardly honorable."


    Viper''s face darkened, his true intentions bing obvious. His goal was to disrupt the event and force Ethan and Brenna into handing over the real Orwall Queen''s diamond tiara.


    Despite Viper''s careful nning, the Harper family was ready. They were armed, and their sniper had their sight set on Viper. Otherwise, even if Ernst and Ethan had guns, Viper was still confident he could take down the Harper family with his bodyguards.


    Brenna was being protected, and she certainly wasn''t as simple as she appeared. The revtion left Viper feeling utterly frustrated.


    He nced at Valeria, who shifted ufortably beside him. Earlier, despite her expertise in gems, she had failed to recognize that the Orwall Queen''s diamond tiara they had gotten was a counterfeit and had mistakenly confirmed its authenticity.


    It was her idea to wear the tiara to the Harper family and cause trouble.


    Now that she realized her mistake, fear of the consequences froze her in ce. "Viper..." she murmured, fully aware of the punishment she would be facing. With a grunt, Viper waved her off angrily, saying, "Get out of my sight!" Ernst and Ethan then escorted Viper toward the lounge on the house''s fourth floor.


    Outside, the party continued as if nothing had happened.


    Greta was about to pull Lilith toward Brenna to invite Brenna to join them for a meal when a woman in a chic ck dress approached Brenna first and said, "Miss Harper, may I have a word with you?"


    Brenna recognized the woman. She was Sabine, who had been close to Ernst all evening, even stepping in to protect him during his confrontation with Viper.


    Sabine''s affection for Ernst was obvious, and Brenna couldn''t help but admire her for the genuine love she had


    for him.

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    Chapter 213 Charade


    Brenna also noticed that the daughters of her mother''s friends didn''t seem the least bit interested in Ernst. None of them had spared him even a nce. That alone told her her mother''s efforts had likely been in vain.


    While the Harper family estate buzzed with activity, Brenna led Sabine up to her room on the third floor to talk.


    As soon as they stepped inside, she saw the shift. The friendly smile Sabine had worn downstairs was gone, reced by a frosty look.


    Her demeanor changedpletely.


    Brenna had no intention of wasting warmth on someone who didn''t bother to hide her coldness. She leaned against the desk and said, "What do you want? Just say


    it."


    Sabine''s expression shifted again. Now, she seemed angry. "Miss Harper, I''ve just realized that Ernst is very


    protective of you."


    Brenna raised an eyebrow. "What, are you jealous?"


    Sabine scoffed, "We''re not the same. Why would I be jealous? I think you''re nothing but trouble. You shouldn''t


    havee back to the Harper family."


    Brenna almostughed. This woman wasn''t even part of the Harper family yet but was already sticking her


    nose in her family''s affairs.


    "How exactly am I trouble? Looks to me like the Harper family''s doing just fine now," Brenna said.


    Sabine''s temper red. "Don''t y dumb. You know what you did. Ernst was supposed to be the CEO of the


    Harper Group. When the chairman steps down after a few years, thepany will be his. But because of some


    ridiculous bet with you, he got forced out of thepany. This is all your fault. Ernst is a very capable person.


    But just because he doesn''t like you, he''s being kicked out of thepany."


    She let out a sharp snort, her eyes cold with resentment. In her eyes, Brenna had ruined everything for her.


    She had been one step away from bing the CEO''s wife, the future wealthiest woman in all of Shirie. But


    that dream had shattered because of Brenna.


    What stung even more was how fiercely Ernst had defended Brenna just now.


    Brenna had dragged herself into some mess with a local crime boss, and somehow, she had dragged Ernst into


    the matter as well. It was ridiculous. At this rate, the Harper family would soon be ruined because of her!


    "What are you even talking about?" Brenna narrowed her eyes, realizing that Sabine was ambitious and greedy.


    "Who do you think you are? What happens in my family is none of your business."


    Sabine''s expression darkened. "I''m about to marry your brother. I''m going to be part of the Harper family s and I won''t stand by while you destroy my husband''s future. If you have even a shred of decency, you''ll leave the Harper family. And before you do, cancel that ridiculous bet and let your brother take back his position as


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    the CEO of the Harper Group. Bring Rosie back too. What gives you the right to


    push people out of thepany the moment you return?"


    Brennaughed. "And who do you think you are? You''re not even part of the


    Harper family yet, and you already want to meddle in our affairs. You are so full of yourself. And do you really think you can be part of the Harper family?"


    Now it all made sense to Brenna. No wonder her mother didn''t like Sabi. This woman was possessive to a fault. She didn''t really love Ernst; she was after his wealth and status.


    "Let me make something clear. As long as I''m here, you''ll never be my sister-inw,¡± Brenna said firmly. "Whatever happens in the Harper family has nothing to do with you. And if you were paying attention, you''d have noticed Ernst is already siding with me."


    Sabine shot daggers at Brenna and said, ¡°Ernst still listens to me."


    As long as Ernst listened to her, the Harper Group would eventually be hers. She was certain of that.


    "Really?" Brenna scoffed, wondering where Sabine got her confidence from.


    Sabine tilted her chin upward. With eyes filled with disdain, she looked at the tiara on Brenna''s head. "You''re nothing more than someone riding on the Harper family''s coattails. Do you even know what people say about you?"


    Brenna didn''t bother replying. She could already guess Sabine had nothing worthwhile to offer. So she just watched silently as Sabine speak.


    Sabine rolled her eyes, clearly unimpressed by the tiara on Brenna''s head. "You''re just using your looks and


    #charm to sway Mr. and Mrs. Harper. That''s all. Mr. Harper has directed every possible resource to you. That


    lecture you gave? The Harper Group probably hired a whole team of experts just to make you look smart. You probably spent more time preparing your image than the actual content."


    After a pause, she continued, "You act like you''ve earned your ce, but let''s be honest. You don''t have any


    real skill. Your image is crafted by the Harper family. Sooner orter, people will see the truth. Everyone will


    know what kind of person you really are. You won''t be able to pretend too long. If I were you, I''d leave before that happens. Maybe Mr. Mitchell will keep you by his side for a while. But once your beauty fades, you will be


    abandoned by him in no time!"


    When she finished speaking, she expected Brenna to back down. In her mind, there was no way someone as


    young as Brenna could''ve graduated from a top university ore up with some profound ideas on her own. It had to be the Harper Group pulling the strings and creating the polished image.


    "I''ll tell Mr. Mitchell everything." Sabine said with a huff. "Brenna, I''m afraid you won''t be able to keep this


    charade going much longer!"


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    "So, what''s the n? When are you going to talk Mr. Harper into bringing Ernst back to the Harper Group to


    take up the CEO position again?" Sabine said with confidence. "If you confess to Mr. Harper your ipetence and express your desire not to monopolize all of Harper Group''s resources, then when I marry your brother, I


    might let you stay in the Harper family home. I''ll ensure you have enough to live on."


    Brenna was astounded by Sabine''s audacity. Sabine wasn''t even married to Ernst yet, but she was already


    making ns as if she owned everything in the Harper family. It was absurd.


    Her expression cold, Brenna fixed her gaze directly on Sabine.


    Sabine, initially full of arrogance, began to feel unsettled as she sensed Brenna''s disdain. She snapped, "What are you staring at? Answer me. Don''t you think my offer is generous? Once I''m married to your brother, I''ll control everything in the Harper Group. It''s generous of me to even consider letting you stay within the Harper family. You should be grateful.¡±


    Brenna gave her phone a little shake, then turned the screen toward Sabine for her to see.


    Sabine''s confidence faltered, realizing that Brenna had been on a call the entire time, and Ernst was on the


    other end of the line!


    She had unknowingly revealed her intentions to Ernst. Panicking, she reached for Brenna''s phone, scolding her, "I''m your future sister-inw! How could you disrespect me by letting someone eavesdrop on our conversation?"


    Brenna moved quickly, dodging Sabine''s attempt to grab the phone, causing Sabine to almost lose her bnce.


    "What do you think Ernst will feel about what you''ve said?" Brenna asked, showing her the phone screen to


    Sabine once more.


    Sabine''s face fell, frustrated by her failure to seize the phone.


    She yelled into the phone, "Ernst, listen to me! I didn''t mean what I said. It was a test for your sister. I just wanted to see if she supports our union. I was only joking with her..."


    Brenna ended the call abruptly.


    In the small lounge on the fourth floor, Ernst had picked up the call but only caught a few confusing words. He was about to ask for rification when the line went dead, leaving him puzzled about Brenna''s intentions.


    Opposite him, Viper was already making his way to the elevator. Their exchange had been tense, with Ernst an Ethan showing no deference towards Viper, obviously indifferent to his status.


    Ethan said to Viper directly, "You should consider what I''ve suggested.


    Remember, you have a shipment stuck at customs. And I''m aware that its origins are not exactly above board."


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    Viper stood his ground. "You needn''t worry about my affairs. Better to concentrate on your own shipment


    instead."


    Sabine''s temper red as she yelled at Brenna, "Are you ying games with me? Aren''t you afraid I''ll go straight to Ernst and tell him everything?"


    Brenna dismissed her concerns without fuss, saying, "First off, you''re not yet part of the Harper family. Our family issues don''t concern you. Secondly, how can you be so certain Ernst will marry you? Ernst is remarkable, and plenty of women are drawn to him, even the ones whoe from backgrounds that match his perfectly."


    She raised an eyebrow and walked to the window to look at the courtyard below.


    Sabine rushed to join her and was shocked by the sight. A stunningly beautiful woman was being introduced to Ernst by Giselle.


    Ernst greeted the girl with a polite smile, and they exchanged contact information. Sabine faintly recognized the woman, knowing her name was Lilith Richardson. She understood now that her future mother-inw disliked her; despite knowing about her rtionship with Ernst, she was still introducing him to other women.


    Brenna said, her voice cold, "Do you really think you measure up to Lilith? Her parents hold powerful positions, and she''s enrolled at one of the top universities. Her social status is far higher than yours. You could work your entire life and still fall short of her level. And to top it off, she''s just as beautiful as you, if not even more. She is also younger than you."


    Sabine''s fists tightened, her brow furrowed deeply, and even her eyes showed signs of strain. She stared at Ernst as he continuously smiled at the young woman, indicating he might have taken a liking to her.


    Brenna said, ¡°Ernst heard everything you said just now. Look at how he''sughing and talking with Lilith. Perhaps he has seen your true colors and decided to break up with you."


    Sabine responded defiantly, "That''s not possible! We''ve already moved in together. He promised he would never betray me. I will exin everything to him right now."


    She hurried out of the house and quickly made her way to the courtyard below. Ernst was asking Lilith about her preferences between barbecue and fruit tters with a smile, his demeanor filled with warmth.


    Sabine walked over to him and quickly said, "Ernst, please listen. I didn''t mean what I said earlier o want to drive your sister away. I just thought she was overstepping by pushing you out of the Harper G wanted her to apologize, not to try and take all the Harper Group''s resources..."

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    Sabine had no idea that Ernst hadn''t heard a single word of what she had said to Brenna.


    She mistakenly assumed he was upset and was deliberately mingling with another woman to make her angry What she failed to realize was that Lilith and Greta had known Ernst since childhood. Though they had never been particrly close, they talked from time to time.


    Lilith had indeed exchanged contact information with Ernst, but to him, she was still the little girl who used to cling to his sleeve, seeking protection.


    Ernst listened intently to Sabine and felt that her words were bing more and more inappropriate. The people around them started to take notice, especially Lilith, who watched the unfolding drama with an amused expression.


    Sabine misread the situation and thought Lilith was trying to vie for Ernst''s attention. She continued, "Didn''t Brenna force you out of the Harper Group and seize your shares? She has gone too far. She is clearly trying to monopolize the Harper family''s assets. I''m simply advising her to know her ce and not be so greedy."


    Overhearing this, Dalton scoffed in disbelief and said, "Who do you think you are? Since when were our family''s affairs any of your business? I''ll hand everything over to my sister if I like, and it''s none of your business. Security, why haven''t you escorted this woman out yet?"


    Growing more entertained by the minute, Lilith watched the drama unfold.


    Brenna stood beside Dalton, watching the unfolding scene with aposed gaze.


    Meanwhile, Ernst was fuming. This wasn''t the Sabine he knew. She used to be reasonable, never mentioning the Harper family''s assets. Ever since he left thepany, she had been relentless, urging him to return to thepany, insisting that Dalton was only good at acting and had no real business sense.


    Now, everything clicked into ce. His mother had been right all along. Sabine didn''t love him. She just loved


    his money.


    Ernst said, "What are you even talking about? The Harper Group doesn''t belong to just me. I don''t even have any shares left now. What exactly are you nning to do here?"


    Sabine froze. Suddenly, she realized Ernst hadn''t overheard her conversation with Brenna earlier. Now, faced with his questioning, she was at aplete loss for words.


    Brenna had tricked her!


    Sabine whipped around to face Brenna, who was watching the drama unfold with a faint smile. Rage boiled over inside her. "How dare you deceive me like this?" Brenna chuckled and replied, "I didn''t deceive you. I really did call Ernst just now."


    After saying that, she pulled out her phone and yed a recording for everyone to hear. Sabine''s words about


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    controlling the Harper family and her desire to kick Brenna out of the family were exposed for all to hear


    A sharp smack echoed through the room as Giselle pped Sabine across the face. Giselle said furiously, "You haven''t even married Ernst yet, and you are already scheming for the Harper Group''s assets? You''ve got some nerve! Do you really think I''ll be bowing to you one day, living under your thumb?"


    "Mrs. Harper, that''s not what I meant! Please, just hear me out..." Sabine''s voice trembled with frustration as she felt her world crumble around her. She had never imagined Brenna would be so ruthless in exposing her. She realized no one would believe her now.


    "I never thought you were this kind of person, Sabine." Ernst was deeply disappointed, realizing he had consistently misjudged people and situations.


    Sabine still tried to defend herself, her voice rising in desperation. "That''s not what


    I meant at all. I just wanted to test if your sister liked me. I never meant to drive


    her away; I just wanted her to be more restrained."


    Ernst retorted, "My sister doesn''t need your advice."


    Dalton let out a derisive snort and motioned for the security guards.


    Without hesitation, the guards stepped forward and forcibly dragged Sabine out of the estate.


    Sabine shouted defiantly, "Are you saying the women around you are not after your money? And I don''t believe Brenna is as remarkable as everyone thinks. How could someone from such an ordinary background graduate with a master''s degree at eighteen? Who would buy that? She is just an ordinary person pushed forward by the Harper Group''s resources. Don''t be so easily fooled-"


    Before she could say anything more, the security guards swiftly covered her mouth.


    Just then, two military vehicles pulled up at the entrance of the Harper family estate, instantly capturing everyone''s attention.


    Braeden stepped out of one of them and walked toward Brenna with confident strides, holding a beautifully wrapped gift box in his hands.


    "How could you throw a birthday party and not invite me? Have you forgotten about me, Miss Harper?" he said.


    Everyone looked at him, whose crisp military uniform gave off an undeniable air of authority, drawing respect from those around him.


    Genuinely surprised, Brenna put away her yful smile and greeted Braeden with respect. She then said, "I didn''t expect you toe."


    She offered a slight smile and added, "It''s just a small birthday party. I didn''t want to bother you."


    Braeden chuckled, not really questioning Brenna, and handed the gift he had brought to a servant who approached. He shook Brenna''s hand politely, almost with a hint of reverence.


    The Harper family was taken aback by the sight of Braeden''s high military status, which was shown in hie uniform. Shepard, Ernst, and Ethan made their way over, and everyone turned to Brenna, waiting for her to introduce Braeden.


    Brenna said, "This is Mr. Braeden Foster from the Weapons Research Institute."


    As Sabine was being dragged toward the door, she stared wide-eyed at Braeden, her gaze fixed on his uniform,


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    feeling as if she were dreaming. She couldn''t believe such a high-ranking officer was attending Brenna''s


    birthday party.

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    Chapter 216 Why Would I


    Do That


    Utterly amazed, Greta and Lilith stood side by side, munching on barbecue skewers as they watched Braeden mingle with Brenna.


    Lilith''s eyes lit up. "Who would''ve thought? Brenna''s circle includes military officials."


    Greta, far more serious than the cheerful Lilith, nodded thoughtfully. "I can see why Mr. Mitchell is interested in her. Her connections are extensive. Did you hear what she said, something about the Weapons? What kind of coboration does Brenna have with the military?"


    Shaking her head, Lilith murmured, "Sounds top secret, doesn''t it?"


    The servants of the Harper family presented Braeden with an array of extravagant dishes. Shepard, Ernst, and Dalton were all shocked that Brenna was working with the military.


    Was Brenna possibly involved in developing cutting-edge weaponry at the Weapons Research Institute?


    As Braeden savored the feast, he engaged warmly with the Harper family members.


    "Your daughter''s aplishments must fill you with pride. The military holds that kind of skill in high regard," he said to Shepard.


    Shepard, puzzled yet curious, asked, "Can you share what my daughter is working on with you?"


    His voice carried a cautious tone, aware of the sensitive nature of military projects. If Brenna were able to share any details, she would have done so by


    now.


    Braeden responded with augh, "I''m afraid that''s confidential. It''s just a minor project."


    The Harper family responded with politeughter. But they knew the reality was not as simple as Braeden had made it to be. After all, if it were just a small project, Braeden wouldn''t have attended Brenna''s birthday party personally like this.


    Ethan, familiar with military dealings from his two years of service, was unfamiliar with Braeden.


    Just as he was about to strike up a conversation, Braeden turned to him and said, "You must be Ethan, Kenny''s twin, correct?"


    To Ethan, soldiersmanded respect, but with so many of his own family members in the military, he didn''t view them with the same admiration the Harper family did. To him, being a soldier was simply anothe profession.


    "Indeed," Ethan answered.


    Their conversation flowed easily, with Braeden asking about Vincent''s condition.


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    Brenna asionally joined in, contributing to the conversation. After a while, a secretary who had apanied


    Braeden handed her a folder.


    With a respectful tone, Braeden said to Brenna, "We''ve held further talks since you left and drafted some proposals. Please, take these as a reference."


    As the clock struck eight, a majestic five-tiered birthday cake was presented. The crowd gathered around Brenna and Ethan, making this the most borate birthday celebration Brenna had ever had.


    As the birthday song filled the air and everyone''s faces lit up with joy, Brenna couldn''t help but feel happy. She was satisfied that she was now surrounded by close friends and loving family members.


    Thiago, Ellie, and Patrick stood close together beside Brenna, their smiles brighter than anyone else''s.


    Ethan caught Thiago''s lingering look towards Brenna, something that seemed too intense, stirring a twinge of


    difort within him.


    However, seeing Patrick holding the hands of both Ellie and Thiago brought himfort. He believed they looked more like a family.


    As for his friend Jayceon, he was content to let him stay out of the matter for the time being.


    Recently, Patrick had been keeping his distance from Jayceon because Fay had been clinging to him. He was unsettled by the stories Fay had shared about the cruel ways of stepmothers, not wanting to be around Jayceon and Fay anymore. Jayceon had told Ethan about this.


    Despite Jayceon''s efforts to change Patrick''s mind, Patrick remained distant.


    Watching the easy connection between Patrick and Thiago, Ethan couldn''t help but notice how it appeared genuinely father-son like.


    Besides, Ellie''s behavior toward Thiago was somewhat intimate. Ethan believed they might really be a couple in the future.


    Worried that Jayceon might feel overshadowed by Thiago, Ethan quickly snapped a picture of the trio holding hands amidst the crowd''s distraction and sent it to Jayceon, warning him.


    He also took a few photos with Brenna, asking for help from people across the room to get better angles, and swiftly posted them online.


    With an encouraging smile, Ethan said to Brenna, "Time to make a wish."


    Brenna pressed her hands together, her eyes closed as she silently made her wish. Then, she and Ethan blew out the candles together.


    When Greta saw the soft look in Ethan''s eyes when he looked at Brenna, her heart sank. Though she believed she was better than Brenna, theck of attention from Ethan hurt more than she had expected.


    Clutching her phone, she thought about asking Ethan for his contact information but hesitated, unsure of h he would respond and concerned about how Brenna might react.


    She turned to Lilith and suggested, "Why don''t you ask Mr. Mitchell for his number?"


    Lilith quickly understood her intentions and nced at her before replying, "Why would I do that? If you''re so eager to get close to him, why not ask him for his number yourself?"


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    Greta pouted and said, "But don''t you think Mr. Mitchell is quite a catch? He''s handsome and rich."


    Lilith shed a knowing smile and brushed off the idea. "I''m not going after someone who''s clearly already


    taken."

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    Chapter 217 Conscience


    Greta gently shook Lilith''s arm. "Could you just do me this favor?"


    Lilith understood the situation. She could see that Ethan was warm toward Brenna, but his gaze toward everyone was cool and distant. He didn''t seem like someone who was easy to approach. And Greta just didn''t want to risk being turned down.


    Lilith wasn''t about to take the risk for Greta,


    She said, "Sorry, I really can''t help you with this."


    Greta said nothing, but displeasure was evident on her face. She had spent a long time trying to build up her nerve. But even after the cake was passed around, she still couldn''t bring herself to approach Ethan to ask for his number. She understood that pushing too hard would only backfire and make him dislike her. It was better to wait and see.


    Still, watching Ethan and Brenna move through the crowd together, smiling andughing, looking like a perfect match, stirred something unpleasant in her chest.


    Brenna stayed busy until well past eleven before thest of the guests finally left. Many people had packed up some food before they left. The people from Brenna''s studio, especially, had helped themselves without a second thought. None of them felt guilty about taking food from their boss.


    The next day, Brenna slept in until after ten, only to be woken up by Julia.


    Standing beside the bed, Julia hesitantly said, "Miss Harper, the Barrett family is here again. They want to see


    you."


    Brenna sat up, surprised. "They still have the nerve to show


    up here?"


    Julia gave a strange smile. "They do. And honestly, they look a bit pitiful. Would you like toe down and take a look?"


    With a groan, Brenna got out of bed, quickly freshened up, and made her way to the living room.


    Downstairs, the Harper family was nowhere to be seen. The servants stayed in the corners, clearly amused by the situation. Some were even snickering behind their hands. No one had bothered to offer the Barretts a drink or the slightest gesture of hospitality.


    The entire Barrett family was present; Alec, Ruby, Mack, and Isabe were all here.


    Brenna couldn''t help but chuckle at the sight of them. Alec and Mack looked like they''d been through a strea brawl. Both had bruised faces, and their suits were ripped in several ces, revealing rumpled, sweat-stain shirts underneath.


    Their clothes were filthy, streaked with some unknown liquid that had dried and crusted. Their lips were cracked and peeling at the edges like they hadn''t had a sip of water in days.


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    Alec seemed to have aged ten years. He had more grey hair now, and deep lines had carved themselves into his


    face.


    Ruby and Isabe didn''t look any better. Though they weren''t truised, dirt smudged their cheeks, me that hair was matted and greasy,


    The four of them, aware of how awful they looked, didn''t even attempt to sit. They stood stiffly in the center of the living room. Ruby and Isabe had red, swollen eyes, the kind that caffe from crying


    "What exactly happened to you?" Brenna settledfortably onto the sofa. Theughter she tried to hold back still slipped through.


    Alec''s and Mack''s faces darkened with anger. Brenna''s amusement only added fuel to the fire burning in their


    chests.


    "The Barrett Group is bankrupt!" Alec finally choked out. His voice shook, and tears ran down his face.


    Suddenly, a loud stomach growl echoed in the room. The Harper family''s servants exchanged looks but stayed put. Without Brenna''s instructions, none of them would bring food to the Barrett family members


    Brenna acted like she hadn''t heard a thing. She tilted her head and said, "How could that be? Just a few days ago, I heard the Wagner family gave yourpany a huge order. It should be enough to keep you afloat for a whole year." Alec let out a heavy sigh and said with regret, "It was that order that ruined us. We epted it without realizing our machines were too outdated to handle the advancedponents. When we couldn''t meet the specs, the client used us of dying their production and demandedpensation. We were already struggling. Where were we supposed to find that kind of money topensate the client?"


    Looking utterly broken, he continued, "In the end, we had to mortgage thepany just to cover thepensation. If we hadn''t paid, the client would''ve dragged us to court, and I''d be sitting in a jail cell by now." He spoke as though his situation deserved sympathy, but Brenna just leaned back on the sofa and evenughed. This pushed Alec over the edge. Enraged, he said to Brenna sharply, "Brenna, how can you be so heartless? The Barrett Group is gone. Thepany was mortgaged, and even our house was seized. We have nothing left now! Since getting kicked out yesterday, we haven''t eaten or had a sip of water. And you just sit there,ughing Aren''t you gonna help us get thepany and the house back?"


    Ruby couldn''t hold back any longer. She jabbed a finger in Brenna''s direction and snapped, ¡°We raised you all these years, and this is what we get in return? Where''s your conscience? Can''t you see we''re starving? You won''t even offer us a meal? You''re so ungrateful!"


    Brenna raised an eyebrow. "Conscience? Do you actually know what that is? I always thought you didn''t have


    one."


    Ruby let out a cold snort, still looking arrogant. She said, "We raised you for twenty years. We fed you and clothed you. Now that we''re in trouble, you should help us. With the Harper family''s power, getting bac Barrett Group and the house would be easy. Brenna, it''s time you paid us back for what we did for you She narrowed her eyes as she added, "You wouldn''t want to be seen as someone ungrateful, right?¡±


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    Chapter 218 Simply Repaying Us Would Suffice


    Mack''s displeasure was evident, his brows knitting into a frown as he took in Brenna''s amusement at the situation. His voice, tinged with sharpness, broke the silence. "Indeed," he said coldly. "Your current achievements owe everything to the Barrett family''s endeavors. We''ve poured years of time and substantial resources into molding you into the figure you are today. Now, as the Harper family''s daughter, you are swathed in status and privilege. We''re not asking for grand gestures of repayment. Simply repaying us would


    suffice."


    His words dripped with condescension, more a demand than a request for a favor.


    Mack continued, "Hurry up! I''m hungry and in dire need of a shower. We''re giving you a chance to settle your debts-serve us some food and provide clean clothes. Where''s the bathroom? Also, clear a few rooms; we''re staying here."


    His eyes roamed the opulent interior of the Harper residence, a stark contrast to the more modest Barrett family''s house.


    How did Brenna end up living amidst such luxury, attended by a fleet of servants? How had fortune so favored


    her?


    Ruby tilted her chin up, her smirk filled with arrogance. ¡°Consider this repayment n a favor. You should feel grateful."


    Alec, ever the diplomatpared to Mack''s harshness, spoke in a softer tone. ¡°Brenna, dear, we''re famished. Could you please prepare something for us? Look at our plight; we have faced so much hardship. Bring out whatever delicacies you have-truffles, caviar, Iberian ham. Anything filling will do. And clothes? Something simple, yet tasteful, in the low five-figures range should suffice. We can''t remain like this, a sight for sore eyes. Otherwise, we will be aughingstock."


    In his view, his approach was nothing but a disy of paternal affection.


    Isabe watched silently from the sidelines, studying Brenna, well aware of her cold nature.


    Mack, frustrated by Brenna''s apparent indifference, snapped, "You heard us. Hurry up!"


    Brenna responded calmly, "Are you finished? If so, leave."


    Her expression was cold.


    Ruby''s anger red instantly. "How can you be so heartless!" she hissed. "Can''t you see we''re in dire need We''re left with nothing-no home, no means to survive. You''re ourst hope. And let me remind you, this isn''t merely charity. It''s your opportunity to enhance the Harper family''s reputation. I suggest you don''t squander it."


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    Brenna stood up with controlled elegance, her movement charged with key determination ¡°oh, I remember your ''kindness'' to me," she replied, her voice sharp as a de "All those demands. When I didn''t make the blueprints you were satisfied with, you let me starve. How many times did I plead while you looked away? Your hearts never wavered."


    Ruby recoiled under the weight of Brenna''s words, her gaze darting away


    Alec and Mack, too embarrassed to meet Brenna''s stare, turned their heads


    Ruby struggled to respond, finally blurting out, "That was all part of your training Without our guidance, would you have achieved so much? You ought to be grateful, not vindictive. Now, bring out some food! We are starving here!"


    Her voice was urgent, her tone sharp.


    She even barked at the servants, "Are you all deaf? Bring us some food! Do you want to starve us to death? You can''t afford the consequences; you know that, right?"


    The servants stood still. Julia nced at Brenna, and since Brenna stayed silent, she and the other servants naturally ignored Ruby''s orders. To them, they didn''t work for these four.


    Without another word, Julia simply motioned for the other servants to resume their tasks.


    "Stop right there! Is this how you do your job? I''ll fire everyst one of you!" Ruby shouted.


    Brenna gave Ruby a frosty look before signaling a security guard with a brisk gesture. "Darrell, please remove these individuals and ensure they are permanently banned from the premises. Inform the neighborhood patrol as well- they should no longer have ess to the area. Such eyesores are truly intolerable."


    Several security guards stormed in, unceremoniously dragging the four out. Ruby was the loudest in protest, throwing a full-blown tantrum-kicking, screaming, and even thrashing on the floor in refusal to leave.


    Isabe, unable to hold back, tried to reason with Brenna, saying, "Even if we wronged you before, we''re still your family. Look at how pitiful we are. Can''t you show a bit ofpassion? If you don''t help us now, we''ll end up on the streets. While you luxuriate in your mansion, your family suffers like beggars. Can your conscience bear that? You can''t be that heartless and ungrateful!¡±


    Brennaughed without humor, dismissing them with a flick of her wrist. She suddenly thought of something and said to the Barrett family members, "Ah, yes. I know where your family can go now."


    Ruby, momentarily halting her cries, looked at Brenna. "Where?"


    Brenna replied calmly, "Isabe is with Denis, isn''t she? Seek refuge with him;


    he''s bound to provide you with food and a ce to stay. After all, it was Denis who orchestrated the deal that bankrupted the Barrett family. He owes you, doesn''t he?"


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 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 219

    Chapter 219 Being Kicked


    Out


    Isabe''s face clouded over immediately. The very idea of meeting Denis in her current ragged, unkempt state filled her with a sense of fear. Denis was not a man of second chances-one look at her in this condition would likely make him abandon her for good.


    Despite seeing Denis as her beacon of hope, she made a firm decision-she would only seek him out once she had returned to her former, elegant self.


    Thinking the same thing, Ruby stood up, smoothing her clothes with an exaggerated sense of elegance. Even in the face of their difficult situation, she still looked arrogant.


    "Brenna," she said, her toneced with a false sweetness. "I understand that you hate us. However, this cruelty beneath your refined appearance? It doesn''t reflect well on you in the eyes of others. Here''s our proposal- house us for just a few days and provide meals and basic clothing. We''ll find work soon. In no time, we''ll be on our feet again. After a couple of months, we will move out once we have an ie. Even someone as cold as you should be able to agree to this, right?" Her tone carried the guise of a negotiation.


    Mack interjected quickly to convince Brenna, "We have already madepromises. You can''t be so hard on us just because we''re going through a rough patch. Don''t forget, we turned the Barrett Group from a small workshop into


    a publicly recognizedpany. If you provide us with some startup capital, we''ll bounce back. And when we do, we''ll make sure to repay your generosity."


    Ruby''s mood shifted as a new determination took hold of her. Mack''s words reminded her of something. She said, "The Harper family''s fortune is vast, practically endless. And I know you have that billionaire boyfriend. If you don''t want us to stay here, you can just give us some money. Ten billion would settle this. Fund our fresh start, and we give you our word that you won''t see us ever again. With Mack''s and Alec''s ability, we''re certain to return to our former glory."


    Brenna''s response was cold and firm. "You won''t get a penny from me. I''ve already repaid you for raising me. Didn''t I make that clear?"


    With a sly smirk, Brenna brushed aside the Barrett family''s inted sense of aplishment. "You all love to boast about how Barrett Group grew from a simple workshop to a listedpany. But if you were truly capable, would the Barrett Group have ended in failure?"


    She then turned to Julia and said, "Didn''t we have leftovers from my birthday celebration yesterday? Just hand that to them; it should be enough."


    Julia stepped out of the pantry, a sneer spreading across her face as she took in the sight of the Barretts. "Unfortunately," she said. "Such terrible timing. There were plenty of leftovers, Miss Harper, but your staff from the studio took most of them. What was left was still too much for us, so Darrell decided it would be better to feed the neighborhood strays with it. So we..."


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    Chapter 219 Being Kicked Out


    She cast a deliberate nce toward the window, making it clear that the scraps had gone to the strays


    Brenna just smiled, not saying a word.


    Julia''s eyes narrowed as she addressed the Barrett family, her tone dripping with false sweetness. "Naturally, if you''d rather have what we usually give to the strays, I can ask someone to fetch some of our leftovers for you" She paused deliberately. "I doubt the neighborhood cats and dogs would mind sharing"


    Laughter echoed from the pantry, where servants had gathered to watch the scene unfold.


    Enraged, Alec and Mack were about to hit Brenna, their fists tightening and sleeves rolled up in a wave of anger.


    However, Darrell and his security team swiftly intervened, pinning them to the floor and beating them up.


    Despite a bloody nose, Alec hurled insults at Brenna. ¡°You heartless wretch! We asked for help, and you mocked us? Just wait-you''ll regret this!"


    Brenna''s order was sharp and swift. "Get them out of here."


    The guards dragged the Barrett family away quickly.


    Julia then turned to the other servants. "Let''s clean the house thoroughly. Those people dirtied this ce."


    Having been forcibly removed, the Barrett family faced their most shameful moment.


    Alec rubbed his aching shoulder, his voice filled with frustration as he spoke. "After everything we''ve done for that ungrateful girl, she treated us like garbage! Our time, our resources-it''s all been for nothing!"


    Mack, wiping the blood from his split lip, shot an angry nce at Alec. "So, this was your big n? You honestly thought she''d forget how we treated her? We brought this upon ourselves."


    Isabe, her cheeks burning with embarrassment, said, "When we were kicked out, many onlookers saw us and took photos of us. This is all your fault! I told you she''d never help us!"


    Ruby snapped at her children, her voice sharp with fury, "Enough! If you had even a fraction of Brenna''s talent, we wouldn''t be in this mess!"


    She paused for a moment and then said, "So, where do we sleep tonight? We have no ce to go now."


    Mack had thought of a ce to go some time ago but hesitated to bring it up.


    Faced with no other options, he reluctantly said, "There''s the luxury apartment in the east district, the one Dad secured for Ms. Tucker."


    Ruby''s suspicion was immediately aroused when she heard the name. Seeing the change in Alec''s behavior, she snapped, "Ms. Tucker? Who is that? Alec, are you having an affair?"


    Alec stayed silent, avoiding her gaze as he turned away.


    Mack tried to sway him, saying, "Come on, Dad, we don''t have a choice now! We''ve got to head to Ms. Tuck ce.¡±


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 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 220

    Chapter 220 Your Father Betrayed Me


    Alec''s face darkened like stormy clouds, and his intense gaze aimed at Mack felt like it could cut through flesh. He hadn''t forgotten about L Tucker''s ce; he had just wanted to go there alone. That was why he hadn''t mentioned it earlier.


    He had seen that humble 150-square-meter space as his personal refuge, a ce he imagined solely for himself, with no room for his family.


    The thought of his wife and mistress living under the same roof waspletely absurd to him.


    With one nce at Alec''s stormy expression, Ruby confirmed all her suspicions.


    Her anger red up instantly. For years, she had seen Alec as the perfect, loyal husband. While other wealthy men paraded their mistresses, she proudly told her friends about Alec''s steadfast faithfulness, often iming it was due to her own charm.


    Now, it seemed the reality was not what she had always thought it to be. How could she contain her fury?


    Ruby unleashed her anger like a raging storm, her hand gripping Alec''s ear with force. ¡°You jerk! All these years, you were acting like the ideal husband while secretly having an affair?"


    Alec flinched, remembering the days when Ruby would march through the Barrett Group headquarters, pulling secretaries and ountants by their hair across the trading floor when they were having an affair with him.


    Since those heated times, he had be skilled at hiding his affairs from Ruby.


    In the past, he had feared Ruby''s dramatic outbursts, afraid they might cause thepany''s stock to drop. Now, with nopany to protect and no reputation to defend, he was unwilling to bear Ruby''s anger.


    His hand struck Ruby''s cheek, a p so loud it silenced their children. "Enough! Yes, I''ve been unfaithful. What can you do about it? I have somewhere to be now, but what about you? Your parents are gone, and your rtives are cutting ties with you. If you don''t want to end up on the streets, you''d better do whatever I tell you to do!"


    Mack and Isabe stood frozen, their world suddenly turned upside down. Life had always followed a certain script-frequent outbursts from their mother, their father''s quiet eptance. But now, the red mark from Alec''s p on Ruby''s face was a clear break from that pattern.


    "Enough!" Mack stepped between Ruby and Alec, his voice trembling with strain. "Why are we fighting like now? Aren''t we still a family?"


    Ruby recovered from the p and jabbed a finger at Alec. "How dare you hit me? I''ll make you pay for this!" Mack caught her wrists, trying to stop her. "Mom, stop this! Dad hasn''t done anything wrong. Keeping


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    < Chapter 220 Your Father Betrayed Me


    mistresses is practically a tradition for the rich. Without Dad''s affair, we wouldn''t even have Ms. Tucker''s ce to fall back on now."


    Feeling more abandoned than ever, Ruby felt her heart ache as Mack seemed to side with Alec.


    Tears streamed down her face as she cried out, "Mack, how can you defend him like this? I''m your mother, and your father betrayed met"


    Mack, maintaining hisposure, tried to reason with her, saying, "Mom, consider our options. Do you want to starve or end up sleeping on the streets? Ms. Tucker''s house is the best option we have right now. Can you think of any alternative?"


    Ruby cried, her voice cracking. "Would we be in this situation if I had an answer to that? Not even your uncle will help us, his wife mmed the door in my face like I was some stranger."


    Mack tried to calm her down as he said, "We can either hold on to our pride or keep ourselves off the streets tonight. You know what to choose. Please, let''s avoid any more drama."


    Ruby''s anger remained as she followed behind the others, unwillingly heading toward L''s ce.


    As they walked, Ruby bombarded Alec with questions. ¡°That apartment-you bought it for her, right? You used your money, correct?"


    Alec kept silent. The situation was far moreplicated than Ruby realized.


    From the beginning, L had been plotting to keep the property away from Judy, carefully crafting a smart, long -term strategy.


    Every time she received money from Alec, it was disguised as a bonus or a consultancy fee.


    The apartment was entirely owned by L. It was bought using her bank ount. With thew on her side, even if Alec wanted to get the house back, he wouldn''t be able to seed.


    As Ruby pressed him for answers, Alec quickened his pace, choosing silence over revealing the truth.


    Driven by frustration, Ruby shoved him, and demanded, "I''m talking to you! Answer me!"


    "It''splex, okay? The house wasn''t bought with my money," Alec snapped back, his patience wearing thin.


    Ruby''s voice grew louder. "Ridiculous! She couldn''t possibly afford that ce by herself!" Her eyes narrowed. "Spill the truth!"


    Alec''s tone was also sharp. "I''m telling the truth! She''s a skilled ountant-every transaction was legitimate. You won''t be able to get the apartment."


    Ruby saw right through his attempts to dodge the issue. She sneered, "I won''t divorce you. Do you really think you can just leave us and go live with her? Not a chance!"

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    Chapter 221 I''ll''Drag You


    To Court If I Must


    The Barretts had left their home empty-handed-no jewelry, no wallets, and not a phone among them. All their valuables remained locked up within the high walls of their house.


    Stranded without money for transportation, they could only walk to L''s ce from Brenna''s.


    The destination was quite far from Brenna''s house, about thirty kilometers away. Even if they took the subway, it could take them more than an hour to get there. As evening set in, they finally reached L''s apartmentplex. Their shoes were worn thin, blisters throbbing with each step, while hunger wed at their insides mercilessly. When Ruby saw someone about to throw away a half-eaten hot dog. She rushed forward, asking for the discarded food, and then devoured it in a frantic hurry.


    Upon reaching their destination, the Barrett family members copsed from exhaustion at the entrance, drained and waiting for L''s arrival.


    L, apanied by her son, Hugh Barrett, came home around six-thirty in the evening.


    When L and Hugh saw Alec, disarrayed and bruised, they stopped, taking a moment to recognize the battered figure before them as Alec.


    Hugh stepped forward to help Alec up, his voice filled with concern. "Dad... What happened to you? Did someone beat you?"


    Alec winced under his son''s straightforward question. ¡°No, it''s nothing,¡± he said. ¡°I just had a nasty fall." Ruby''s temper red at the sight of Hugh. Oveing her fatigue, she exploded in anger at Alec.


    "How dare you!" Her voice shattered the air. "You and this woman already had a child? How long have you been cheating on me?"


    Seeing L in her designer clothes and Hugh in expensive sneakers only


    deepened Ruby''s resentment. To her, they were living a life that should have been hers.


    Fueled by her outrage, Ruby charged at them, driven by sheer spite. L, however, reacted with swift precision.


    With a quick motion, she pulled Hugh out of the way, and with a strong shove, she sent Ruby tumb ground.


    the


    Ruby''s exhaustion from the long walk showed as her legs buckled because of L''s strong shove.


    "How dare you shove me!" Ruby''s outcry echoed in the air. "You home-wrecker-"


    Before Ruby could continue, Alec''s hand struck her cheek, knocking her to the ground just as she had managed to stand up.


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    Chapter 221 I''ll Drag You To Court If 1 Must


    "Think about what you''re doing! Do you want to stay here or not? Is this how you ask for help?" he eximed.


    Though Ruby didn''t recognize L, L knew Ruby.


    Confronted with the younger, elegantly dressed L, Ruby felt humiliated.


    The difference was clear, L looked beautiful and young, looking refined, while she, her clothes drenched in sweat and her hair greasy, appeared a sad contrast. Still, Ruby clung to one advantage with fierce pride-she was Alec''swful wife. She could use L of being a mistress.


    "Alec bought the house you''re in, didn''t he?" Ruby''s sneer dripped with a sense of superiority.


    The idea of finding refuge briefly pushed aside her exhaustion, filling her with new energy.


    She gripped Mack''s hand, her posture bold with defiance.


    L replied in a calm voice, "I bought the house." She then walked to stand beside Alec.


    L was holding a bag of takeout food. The scent of the food drifted in the air, causing Alec''s stomach to growl. "Enough, let''s discuss this inside," Alec snapped at Ruby, already heading towards the door. "Stop making a scene here. We will be aughingstock."


    Mack and Isabe urged Ruby to calm down as well.


    Alec turned to L and exined the situation to her, saying, "The Barrett Group


    is bankrupt, and our home has been confiscated. We have nowhere to go now. L, could we stay here for a while until we figure something out?"


    Without hesitation, L guided them to the elevator.


    As they went up, Ruby''s voice echoed off the mirrored walls, her anger relentless. "Everything Alec has given you, including for this apartment, belongs to me," she said, poking L''s chest. ¡°You should give it all back to me now. I''ll drag you to court if I must."


    L looked at her with cold indifference, her voice calm but firm. "Say one more word, and you won''t be able to stay in my ce tonight."


    Ruby instantly fell silent after hearing that.


    Once inside, L put the food on the dining table. The Barretts devoured the food with urgency, their hunger


    evident.


    Hugh watched in frustration as his meal was consumed by the unexpected guests, his irritation clear on his


    face.


    After giving the Barretts some water, L brought out all the food she had, cing it on the table.


    She then gently stroked Hugh''s hair, offering himfort. "Don''t worry; I''ll order something for you to eat soon," she reassured him.


    Hugh''s frustration was clear. "Mom, they''re annoying. Please ask them to leave. I don''t want them to stay in our home."

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    Chapter 222 I Am Your Wife


    The Barretts sprawled across L''s sofa, their stomachs heary with indulgence, their arrogance rekindled like embers fanned back to life.


    Especially Ruby, Mack, and Isabe, each wearing the same sneer, their gazes fixed on L with a blend of disdain and entitlement.


    Ruby''s mind was already working like a dockwork mechanism. Her eyes swept over the apartment''s openyout, a n forming in her head.


    "You have thirty minutes," she announced, her voicemanding, "Pack what''s yours and leave. From now on, this is our home."


    L exhaled, the corners of her lips tilting up in quiet amusement. ¡°Funny," she said. ¡°Even stray dogs have the sense not to bite the hand that feeds them. But I see you''ve decided to try and im what was never yours. If anyone''s leaving, it won''t be me."


    Ruby''sughter rang out, sharp. "Alec bought this house." She jabbed a finger toward Alec. ¡°I am his wife. His assets belong to me. So, are you leaving, or shall I call the police now?"


    Mack leaned forward, his tone soaked in condescension. Let''s be clear, Ms. Tucker-anything bought with Barrett money is Barrett property."


    His smile was tight, devoid of warmth. "We''re being civil by asking you to leave. You should be smart and do as we say immediately."


    The unspoken truth hung heavy on Mack. This apartment was theirst refuge.


    But L had foreseen this moment years ago. Every paper, every transaction had been carefully arranged to withstand exactly this sort of entitled tantrum. She was not afraid of the Barrett family.


    Her gaze shifted to Alec, the man who had once showered her with gifts, indulgences, and care. Alec had always been good to her and her son, that was why she had let him and his family in today.


    But her hospitality had its limits. She wouldn''t let them push her around.


    "Alec," she said, her voiceced with deceptive sweetness as she turned to him, "this is my house, isn''t it?


    Alec''s gaze softened, his voice almost tender. "Of course it is. I already told you I wouldn''t take the hous


    no matter what."


    L''s smile bloomed. She was willing to let Alec stay here. "You always know how to treat me right, honey."


    Ruby recoiled, disgust curling her lips. "Have some decency! How can you flirt with my husband right in front of me?"


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    Har dere old how melted stora se turned to Aler "You need to choose between me and her now I have bean your write for years and have gives you two children You should be smart and make the right decision"


    in her mind, Mack and tabe would stand by her They would fake money and support her financially in the


    But Alex? He was just another middle-aged man. Li was young and beautiful, only liking Alec for his money.


    Now that he was broke, she wouldn''t treat him well.


    L would surely kick Alex out soon


    "She''ll lose you aside likest season''s fashion, Alec, Ruby warned, arms crossed.


    Alec turned to L. "Going broke today doesn''t mean staying down forever. Since I''ve built the Barrett Group before, I can build anotherpany again."


    His eyes bore into hers, unwavering, "Fifty isn''t old. I''ve got decades left to build a career again."


    L''s smile was sweet as she replied, "Of course you will, darling, I trust you."


    After a brief pause, she added, "But this arrangement? I can''t ept it. I won''t live under the same roof with your wife. A divorce would cut through all theplications, don''t you think?"


    Mack''s temper ignited like a match to dry kindling "Stop dreaming" His finger stabbed the air between them. "Whatever my dad gave you, you''re handing back! Everyst penny!"


    "Enough!" Alec''s roar cracked through the tension, silencing the room. "I didn''t give her any money in private. She''s an ountant! The money I gave her was her sry!"


    Mack clenched his fists, unwilling to surrender. "Dad, why are you defending her? We''re your real family!"


    Isabe stood off to the side, the weight of misfortune pressing heavily on her shoulders. This wasn''t how things were supposed to go. She had returned to the Barrett family expecting luxury, only to find ruin waiting


    for her.


    Now, they didn''t even have a ce to live.


    Ruby''s voice rang out, cold and unyielding. She looked at L. "That''s right; we are his family. And this house? It''s mine-every inch of it. I have every right to take back what belongs to me. Now, pack your things and get


    out!"


    L went to the bedroom to retrieve something. She quickly returned with the deed. With deliberate poise, she flipped it open and showed it to Ruby.


    "Read it yourself," she said. "This house is mine. So unless you want me to call the police, I suggest you leave


    Ruby barely flicked her gaze toward the deed, her sneer unwavering. "I don''t give


    a damn! This is my house, and I''m not going anywhere!"


    L didn''t waste another breath. She quickly called the police.


    "Call the cops all you want!" Ruby barked. "I''m his wife! Thew''s on my side!"


    L turned to Alec, her voice calm but edged with finality. "If they don''t leave now, when the officers arrive, you''ll have to leave right alongside them."


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    Chapter 2221 Am Your Wife


    Alec didn''t hesitate. His hands shot out, shoving Ruby toward the door. "You heard her! cm out just found a roof over my head, and you''re not about to ruin this for me!*


    "Alec! I am your wife!" Ruby''s voice cracked, "How could you sid with her?


    "I''ll divorce you tomorrow!" Alec closed the door icily on his wife and children

 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 223

    Chapter 223 I''m Here To Ensure Her Safety


    One a weekend morning, Brenna woke up much earlier than usual, deciding to wear a stunning burgundy gown that hugged her waist and pair it with a matching bag. As she made her way down the stairs, every step seemed to glide effortlessly, filled with natural grace.


    The sound of her ck leather shoes tapping against the floor caught the attention of every servant. They were


    all captivated by her presence.


    Julia couldn''t help but express her awe, saying, "You''re glowing today. There''s a gentle yet captivating charm about you. Do you have a date with Mr. Mitchell?"


    With a subtle nod, Brenna took her ce at the breakfast table for a light meal. Just as she finished, the sound of a car horn echoed from the outside.


    Ethan stood outside, waiting by his car, dressed in his typical ck suit. When he saw Brenna, his usual cold expression melted into a weing smile.


    "Why are you free today?" Brenna asked as she joined him in the car, curiosity coloring her tone. "Where are you taking us?"


    Ethan carefully buckled her in and said, "A friend has flown in some exceptional seafood. We are going to have a taste. I thought a little escape might do you good after your recent endeavors."


    Their journey led them to a coastal dock, a ce Brenna had never visited before. It buzzed with activities as workers handled shipments from mid-sized vessels.


    Brenna noticed a distinctive yacht among the more functional boats. Holding Ethan''s hand, she stepped aboard, though his focus seemed fixed on the cargo ships.


    "Is that your shipment?" Brenna asked.


    "Indeed, it''s a shipment of rare earth minerals," Ethan answered, his tone bing a bit more distant. "A friend helped with the deal. She''ll join uster; I owe her thanks."


    Brenna caught the subtle chill in his gaze but chose not to pry. Instead, she joined him on the deck, absorbing the view-seagulls weaving patterns across the sky, their calls blending with the ocean breeze.


    Their quiet moment was pleasantly disrupted by Ernst and Sabine''s arrival. The couple, radiating joy, stepped onto the deck, theirughter filling the air.


    Brenna found herself wondering about the swift reconciliation. Why would Ernst reconcile with a woman who only liked him for his money?


    Brenna met Sabine''s provocative re with a steely gaze. She made up her mind to make Sabine and Ernst


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    break up.


    "What brings you here?" Even though Ernst was asking Brenna, his eyes turned to Ethan.


    A faint smile tugged at the corners of Ethan''s mouth. "I am engaged with Brenna. Why would I bring anyone


    else?"


    Ernst was caught off guard for a moment before saying, "The open sea is dangerous. You shouldn''t bring her


    there."


    He took hold of Brenna''s arm and said, "You have to leave right now. We''re heading into open waters, possibly staying overnight. It''s not safe for you."


    He attempted to escort Brenna off the yacht.


    Ethan interjected, "Hold on. I''m here to ensure her safety, and she''ll return unharmed."


    Ethan''s gaze sharpened as he fixed his eyes on Ernst, the meaning unmistakable-hadn''t Ernst also brought someone who shouldn''t be here?


    Why would Ernst keep such a woman who had been disrespectful to Brenna by his side, even introducing her


    to friends?


    Brenna felt there was something off about the situation.


    The air grew thick with tension as Jayceon and Fay arrived, hand in hand. Seeing them, Brenna grew angrier. Upon noticing Brenna, Jayceon abruptly let go of Fay''s hand, causing her to nearly lose her bnce on the gangnk.


    "Jayceon!" Fay eximed. "Why are you afraid of her?"


    Jayceon ignored her and approached Ethan. "Quite the audacious move bringing her here. Aren''t you afraid that something might happen to her?"


    Unfazed, Ethan responded, "As long as I''m here, she won''t face any harm. You should worry about your woman


    instead."


    Jayceon patted Ethan''s shoulder as he walked past him.


    Brenna had assumed the guest list was final, but that changed when Denis and Isabe stepped onto the boat. This didn''t surprise Brenna. With the Barrett family''s fall from grace, Isabe''s shift toward bing Denis lover-or even his girlfriend-felt almost unavoidable. It was predictable that Isabe would be here


    with


    Denis.


    What genuinely surprised her was Denis'' eptance of Isabe despite the Barrett family''s tarnished reputation. Radiating joy, Isabe hung onto Denis'' arm, her presence at this event marking her as his official girlfriend.


    She warmly greeted Sabine and Fay before approaching Brenna with a raised chin, thinking she was holding the


    same status as her.


    "What a coincidence to see you here," Isabe said, her smile sweet yetced with malice.


    Brenna smiled back. "It seems you didn''t sleep on a park benchst night."


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    Isabe''s body tensed with anger. ¡°What nonsense are you talking about?"


    Isabe had a ce to live now-Denis had arranged an apartment for her, Ruby, and Mack. He even secured a


    job for Mack at a Wagner Group subsidiary.


    What she found confusing was that Alec had decided to leave Ruby for his mistress.


    But she didn''t care about that. With the Barrett Group already bankr, she didn''t think Alec mattered


    anymore.


    She had Denis now, the heir of the Wagner family. Clinging to him meant a life of luxury for her.


    "Do you even know who''s paying for this outing?" Isabe sneered, her eyes gleaming with disdain.

 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 224

    Chapter 224 She Is


    Interested In You


    Brenna had no idea who sponsored today''s outing. But from the exchanged nces and quiet smirks, it was clear she was the only one out of the loop. The realization settled like a weight in her chest.


    Fay and Sabine swooped in to escort Isabe away. Fay said with a voice loud enough for everyone to hear, "Don''t bother with her. We don''t associate with her kind."


    All three made no effort to hide their hostility toward Brenna.


    Ethan''s face darkened, but he said nothing.


    At this moment, Brenna turned to Ethan and asked, "Is there something you''re not telling me?"


    Ethan held her gaze without flinching. "During my trip to Norview, things gotplicated. The Hewitts stepped


    in to help. I owe them. And the Hewitt family''s daughter... She is really hard to deal with."


    Though his words were vague, he trusted Brenna to catch the meaning behind them.


    Brenna nodded understandingly. "She is interested in you."


    Ethan gave a faint smile as a confirmation. "Don''t worry. I don''t get chosen. I''m the one who chooses. No one can control me."


    Brenna''s lips curled upward. "I''ve heard about the Hewitt family before. They''re big yers in Norview''s underworld. Butpared to you, they still fall short."


    As the yacht pushed into deeper waters, Sabine, Fay, and Isabe tossed bread to circling seagulls, having a great time.


    Brenna and Ethan stood a short distance away, the sea breeze curling between them. The other men stayed some distance away, giving them space.


    Soon, a woman was here. She was wrapped in ck leather, nked by a dozen guards clutching rifles.


    The bodyguards stood tall in full tactical gear-helmets, dark visors, and masks that left not a single inch of


    skin visible.


    Brenna studied the woman. She looked to be in herte twenties. The tight leather outfit clung to her curves Her crimson lips stood out starkly against her face. Her skirt was so short that it barely covered what it needed


    1. to.


    She moved with the confidence of someone who knew exactly what kind of attention theymanded. Without a word, she made a beeline for Ethan.


    The others quickly walked over. Ernst shifted closer to Brenna, taking up guard.


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    "Miss Hewitt," Denis said, eyes raking over her figure with tant interest. "It''s been a while."


    He nodded toward the armed entourage. "What are they for? Are you nning to take us all down here?"


    Jade Hewitt, taller than Brenna by a few inches, rested a manicured hand on Ethan''s shoulder. Her eyes were


    filled with longing.


    Ethan recoiled, his revulsion clear. His face was cold.


    Jade''s hand dropped, and she looked displeased. "Mr. Mitchell, is this how you show your gratitude? After everything I did to save you?"


    "I didn''t need saving. I had the situation under control at that time," Ethan firmly said.


    Jade''s gaze shifted to Brenna, studying her. The rifles didn''t seem to faze Brenna. Whether herposure was true or a well-practiced mask was uncertain.


    "And who is this?" Jade asked sharply.


    Ethanced his fingers with Brenna''s. "My fianc¨¦e. Brenna Harper."


    "A Harper?" Jade sneered. Her eyes flicked to Ernst, and she noticed the tension in his posture.


    "She''s my sister," Ernst confirmed.


    Brenna met the woman''s stare evenly. "Miss Hewitt."


    Not a long distance away, Sabine, Fay, and Isabe watched the scene. They were a bit scared, but they were somewhat excited at the same time. It seemed Jade disliked Brenna. Maybe she would get rid of Brenna on the


    spot.


    They even expected a conflict between Jade and Brenna. If Jade managed to beat Brenna up, they would get


    their revenge.


    The three of them exchanged knowing looks. Jade''s hostility toward Brenna was impossible to miss.


    After a brief exchange of nces, all three were smirking.


    Sabine leaned in, whispering to Fay and Isabe, "Miss Hewitt is powerful; she is from the Ward Gang, which is the biggest mafia gang in Norview. Brenna doesn''t stand a chance against her."


    Fay and Isabe struggled to hide their grins. Atst, there was someone strong enough to put Brenna in her


    ce.


    Seizing the moment, Isabe stepped forward and said, "Brenna, what''s with the attitude? Do you really have to be so rude? You should show Miss Hewitt some respect."


    Sabine also walked over and spoke up. "Apologize to her right now, Brenna. Miss Hewitt isn''t like the rest of us You can''t just treat her however you want. You have no idea what it''ll cost you if you offend her."


    She wanted to say that Jade had her eyes on Ethan and that Brenna should step aside. However, she couldn''t afford to offend Ethan, so she kept that part to herself.


    Brenna almost admired the nerve it took for Sabine to mock her in front of Ernst. Why wasn''t she afraid that Ernst would get mad at what she had just said?


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 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 225

    Chapter 225 I Can Also Pursue Ethan, Right


    Jade''s lips curled at Sabine''s behavior. So this was Brenna''s future sister-inw? Sabine clearly disliked Brenna and was making things difficult for her.


    "Ernst," said Brenna tly, "your girlfriend is helping an outsider make things difficult for me."


    Ernst''s face darkened. He red at Sabine, and his voice was sharp. "Why are you interfering? This is none of your business."


    Sabine shrank back and scrambled for words. She said, "I''m actually trying to protect her! The Hewitts could crush the Harpers like an ant. There''s no need for the Harper family to offend the Hewitt family just for her."


    Seizing the moment, Jade slid her arm through Ethan''s and purred, "At least I bring something to the table. What does your little girlfriend do besides take up space?"


    Ethan peeled her off coldly. "I can handle my own business. The Ward family is powerful, but their power is not as strong as you think. As for you? You don''t even hold much sway in your family."


    Jade''s lips tightened. Ethan had struck a nerve. Her full name was Jade Ward Hewitt, though most people didn''t know that.


    Her grandfather, Kyle Ward, had been an infamous crime lord. While she was certainly one of his more capable grandchildren, real power in the family had never been hers to im.


    Ethan had figured this out during his recent dealings with them.


    The four great families of Shirie were unaware of this, thinking that she held great sway in the Ward family.


    Jade''s interest in Ethan wasn''t just about affection. His empire might be the key she needed to take control of the family business.


    Humiliation surged through Jade, fanning the mes of her hatred for Brenna.


    But she was nothing if not patient. She took a calm, measured step back and said in a low voice, ¡°Deny it all you like, but my help saved your life this time."


    Sabine had a feeling Jade wanted Ethan to repay that favor with a wedding ring. But it was obvious Ethan no intention of doing such a thing.


    Seizing the opportunity, Sabine said, "Mr. Mitchell, you should show some gratitude toward Miss Hewitt for saving you. Otherwise, you would look ungrateful"


    Ernst''s eyes narrowed. How dare Sabine say something like that to Ethan?


    "No one asked for your opinion," he said to Sabine sharply.


    1815


    Chuprey 2751 Can Ken Frew fan, tight


    Jade''s eyes lit up with interest as he looked at the bleed these word to b


    who is this? Is she your firicks?¡±


    Sabine grinned before Ernst had the chance to respond the agent on You


    must attend our engagement party, Miss Hewitt "


    Upon saying these words, she clung to Ernat''s m


    Ernst stayed silent. He didn''t want jade to know about his farmaly affairs, so he that table bat just said


    Nearby, the staff members were setting up a grill. The seafood was brought or to the table.


    There were also crates of vintage wine on the table.


    Jade pped her hands with feigned cheer. "We should all move on from the


    conflict now. The case to celebrate our partnership, didn''t we?"


    She fixed her gaze on Ethan. "Since I saved your life in Nortex, you owe me Cell with me that''s all Im asking. That is not too much to ask, right?"


    Ethan responded with a nod.


    Jadeughed and said, "Good. After we eat, we''ll go fishing in international waters"


    As the others drifted toward the grill, Jade stepped into Brenna''s way to stop her. Then, she turned to Ethan "I want to have a word with Miss Harper in private. You wouldn''t mind, right?"


    Ethan gave a subtle nod before walking away.


    Jade strolled to the edge of the deck with Brenna. Her fingers curled around the ralling as the stared at the waves. "You haven''t been engaged to Ethan yet, right?"


    "No," Brenna said in a calm voice.


    "Good. That means we''repeting fairly," Jade said, her smile widening She then turned and leaned back against the rail. "I can also pursue Ethan, right?"


    Brenna watched her. The audacity of Jade surprised her.


    "Are you asking me to step aside?" she asked,


    "Would you?" Jade said.


    Brenna chuckled. "Not a chance. Ethan is one of you''ve got good taste."


    kind. To me, he''s the best man in the world. Miss Hewitt,

 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 226

    Chapter 226 A Business


    Deal


    In Braeden''s office.


    Braeden transmitted the newly received system to the relevant units. ¡°First, update the special forces'' system for testing. If the performance checks out, deploy it to all helicopters."


    As he set down the phone, another phone rang. He answered it at once. "Braeden speaking."


    "Miss Harper''s signal dropped in international waters," said the voice on the other end with a sense of urgency. "Herst known coordinates have been sent to your phone. Beyond that point, we can''t track her or guarantee protection. We request immediate backup."


    Aboard a speedboat, Morton Sugden watched the distant luxury yacht through his binocrs. His grip tightened as the vessel disappeared from his view.


    As an agent, he understood the stakes. Brenna wasn''t just a civilian; she was a genius in aerospace design, a national asset. Losing her was not an option.


    Braeden''s screen lit up with coordinates and a grainy image of the yacht. Within moments, he had ryed the information to a special opsmander.


    "Names of everyone on board," he demanded, pen in hand.


    Morton''s voice crackled over the satellite link as he listed the names of the passengers. When the call ended, he


    waited for orders.


    On the yacht, the armed personnel stood with weapons raised, eyes scanning the horizon. One of them held a tablet showing live radar imaging, capable of detecting movement within a three-hundred-mile radius.


    Jade approached the guard watching the radar. "Status?"


    "All clear. No vessels or aircraft within 300 miles. Underwater scans are clean, too," the guard answered.


    Satisfied, Jade turned back to the guests with a perfect smile. "Ladies, I invited the heirs to discuss a business deal." She then gestured to thevish spread. "Please, enjoy yourselves while we hold a quick discussion inside. It won''t take long."


    Ethan and Jayceon exchanged nces. Why haul them out to international waters just for a business deal?


    Something wasn''t right.


    Though also cautious, neither Denis nor Ernst raised any objections. They had been informed beforehand that the business deal was very profitable. The lure of tens of billions in annual profits was too strong to resist.


    Anyone would have found it hard to walk away from that kind of money.


    18:15


    Isabe beamed and quickly said, "We''ll take care of the barbecue! It''ll be ready by the time you''re done."


    Ethan met Brenna''s eyes, then gave her hand a light squeeze. He discreetly pressed a small, solid object into her palm. "Grill me some bluefin tuna. It''s my favorite."


    Brenna nodded and closed her fingers around the object. Since when did Ethan care about food? There was


    clearly a hidden meaning behind his words.


    Bluefin tuna came with a steep price tag, especially when flown in fresh from abroad. Its rich taste and rarity only drove the cost higher.


    But for the four great families, it was nothing more than amon ingredient.


    Nearby, Sabine, Isabe, and Fay all drooled at the sight of the prized fish. It was a luxury they had only ever


    dreamed of tasting before.


    Jade''sugh rang out. "You seem so reluctant to leave Brenna''s side, Mr. Mitchell. Don''t worry; you will be back


    in no time."


    Ethan walked past her without so much as a nce. Then, the others followed him into the cabin.


    The door shut with a firm click. Two armed guards quickly took position outside the door. Their posture left no doubt. No one was getting through.


    The object Ethan had given Brenna was a micro inte. She put it in her ear and pressed the recording


    button.


    She recognized the tech immediately. It was military-grade. Braeden had gifted her a set after their work on the helicopter project.


    At the banquet table, the women faced an extravagant disy of seafood. A whole bluefin tunay in the center. Around it, exotic shellfish and glistening prawns were arranged, all ready for the grill.


    Sabine, Fay, and Isabe didn''t know how to cook.


    Isabe nced at the spread of seafood and seasonings. "What are we supposed to do with all this?" Sabine looked just as lost. Her barbecues with her colleagues usually involvedmb or beef. Nothing like this.


    None of them had the slightest clue what to do about these ingredients.


    All three watched as Brenna expertly carved a slice from the tuna.


    "Stop pretending you know anything about these ingredients," said Isabe sarcastically. She knew Brenna better than the others. "You''re just faking it. You''ve never eaten this before. The Barretts could never afford stuff like this. There''s no way you actually know what you''re doing."


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 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 227

    Chapter 227 Why Put On


    An Act


    Brenna only let out a coldugh and brushed off Isabe''s jab. "These ingredients are high-quality. We don''t need to do much. We can season it with salt and pepper, just like what we usually do withmb."


    Isabe, Sabine, and Fay broke intoughter. Isabe''sugh was the loudest. "Quit pretending you know everything, alright? If you don''t know what you''re doing, just say so. Why put on an act?"


    Sabine snorted, eyes narrowed with disdain. "You almost had us fooled. You looked like you eat tuna every day. But it turns out you are just treating the tuna likemb. That''s hrious!"


    Brenna raised an eyebrow. "Do you know how to handle it, then?"


    Isabe felt a sense of satisfaction. Ever since she had learned Brenna was the Harper family''s daughter, she had carried a deep envy. Today, she finally had a moment to mock Brenna.


    "I don''t," she said. "But at least I''m not faking it like you. No matter what you do, you''ll neverpare to Miss Hewitt. She can actually help Mr. Mitchell in his business. You will be dumped by Mr. Mitchell in no time!"


    She mimicked Brenna''s motions and sliced the tuna. But she ended up with ragged, uneven chunks of it.


    In contrast, Brenna''s cuts were clean. Each slice kept the fish''s texture intact.


    She diced the tuna into perfect two-centimeter cubes. Then, she scooped up spices with a tasting spoon, sniffed each one carefully, and added them to the marinade with measured precision.


    Brenna said, "You''re right. The Barretts never served this. But at the Harpers'', I''ve eaten it a few times. I''ve watched the chefs prepare it up close."


    Isabe shot her a venomous re. She then said to the others, "Listen to her brag! A few fancy dinners, and now she''s a food expert?"


    Sabine stared down at her own poorly cut fish, not knowing what to do next. She sneered at Brenna and said, "It''s not like you''re some tuna master. Once Ethan dumps you for Jade, you''ll be nothing. And when I marry Ernst, I will make sure everyone sees you for who you really are!"


    After a pause, she continued, "You just like to pretend you are impressive. With the Harpers'' money, you can fake everything. But you can''t fool me."


    Her eyes swept over Brenna''s face. "That perfect face of yours? It''s probably fake, too."


    She hacked the fish into uneven pieces. Without thought, she threw them into a bowl and reached for spices, relying on hermb marinade experience to guide her.


    Fay, who had no real grudge against Brenna, kept quiet and simply let the drama y out.


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    Chapter 227 Why Put On An Act


    Brenna said inly. "I''m the daughter of the Harper family. That is not something fake; that''s a fact. But the rest of you,ing from average families, keep putting on an act as if it''ll fool anyone. You have no money, yet you squeeze into designer brands. You are also pretending. You desperately cling to wealthy men, hoping you


    can be members of rich families."


    She turned to Fay and Sabine and continued, "You have taken sses to make yourself look like you are from


    refined families, right? The whole point of the sses is putting on an act But let''s be real. You couldn''t even pass the basics. You don''t carry yourselves like socialites. Real ones wouldn''t be so clueless about how to


    handle the bluefin tuna."


    After a pause, she added, "The truth stings, doesn''t it? You really think these rich yboys are looking for love? They collect women like watches. So ask yourselves. Are you the one they''ll keep or just something they wear for show? Deep down, you already know the answer to that."


    Sabine and Fay froze for a second, and then, their expressions twisted with rage. Yet, no rebuttal came. Brenna had been right. The etiquette sses, the polished manners, and the carefully crafted charm were all aimed at one thing: marrying into wealth.


    Sabine had been so close to reaching that goal, yet now, Ernst kept dying the matter of marriage.


    Fay''s nails dug into her palms. Jayceon barely looked at her anymore. His attention was on Ellie and her son.


    Both women were seething.


    Brenna then turned to Isabe. "Isabe, wasn''t your wardrobe malfunction at my party a little revealing? You were an A-cup then. But now, at least a D. Impressive work. Tell me, does Denis appreciate the upgrade?"


    Isabe''s grip on the knife tightened until her knuckles turned white. "One more word, and I''ll carve that smirk off your face."


    Brenna barely nced at the de, its edge glinting. "You won''t. You don''t have it in you to do something like


    that."


    The calmness in her voice cut deeper than


    any knife.


    Isabe snorted and mmed the knife onto the table. It was true. She didn''t have it in her.


    As she turned, she caught Sabine and Fay staring at her chest, curiosity written all over their faces.


    She snapped, "What are you looking at? Look away!"


    The two quickly averted their eyes. Sabine cleared her throat and took the initiative to change the subject. "Let''s make something for Miss Hewitt. I''m just not sure what she likes," she said.


    Fay nodded quickly, eager to move on from the earlier topic. "We can grill a few of everything for her. That should cover it."


    Win a chance to read for free!>>>

 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 228

    Chapter 228 Are You


    Interested


    The yacht spanned 126 meters. Its three-tiered decks rose cleanly above the


    waves.


    The top deck was expansive. Ethan and the others settled into plush sofas arranged in a wide cirde. Each leaned back with ease, and their arms were draped along the cushions, a disy of dominance.


    Across from them, Jade sat alone.


    Except for Denis, the men looked cold. Jayceon and Ernst upied adjacent seats, their legs crossed with practiced ease. When Ernst pulled out his cigarette case, he offered cigarettes to Jayceon and Ethan, ignoring


    Denis.


    As the smoke drifted upward, the three men''s eyes settled on Jade.


    This trio had bonded since childhood. Denis was not part of their circle. He didn''t like them, either. Even if Ernst had offered him a cigarette, he wouldn''t have epted it.


    "Do you really have to do that?¡± Denis snapped, nostrils ring. ¡°Smoking in ady''s presence is very rude." Ethan''s icy re sliced through Denis like a de. No words were needed. The warning in his eyes was enough


    to shut him up.


    Among the four, Denis was the shortest in height, least powerful, and poorest in looks. He seethed with frustration, but there was nothing he could do about it.


    Still, this meeting gave him a sliver of hope. If he could win Jade''s favor, his family''s status might be elevated His family would be the second powerful one in the four great families. When that happened, Ernst and Jayceon wouldn''t dare look down on him.


    "Miss Hewitt," he said with a smile, "what kind of business are you proposing? The Wagner family is more than willing to back any venture you bring to the table."


    Jayceon didn''t bother hiding his disgust. "You''re pathetic."


    "What did you just say?" Denis said, his face red with rage.


    Jayceon scoffed, "You heard me the first time."


    Ernst let out a cold chuckle and added fuel to the fire. "Why stop there? If you want to curry favor with Hewitt that bad, you might as well propose to her right now."


    Denis shot to his feet, fists clenched. Then, he took a step forward, ready to hit Ernst.


    "Enough." Jade quickly stopped them. "Gentlemen, let''s move on to real business."


    At her cue, some people wheeled in a small table. There were crystalline substances, multicolored pills, and


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    18.15


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    white powder on the table.


    The men knew exactly what they were looking at.


    Jade watched them carefully. Ethan''s frown deepened, his displeasure obvious. Ernst lifted an eyebrow and


    looked at her with hostility. Jayceon chuckled coldly, his soundced with disdain. Only Denis nodded faintly, his eyes even showing a hint of excitement.


    Once the staff had left, a man in a white suit entered the room and greeted Jade respectfully.


    It was Viper.


    None of the four men looked surprised. Viper, one of Shirie''s top gang leaders, was well-known for his ties to international syndicates. His presence here wasn''t unexpected.


    Ethan had long figured out who had been pulling Viper''s strings.


    Viper took a seat beside Jade, and his gaze swept across the room like he owned the ce. He viewed the four men not as equals but as subordinates. There was no politeness in his voice.


    ¡°There''s a business deal on the table. It''ll pull in at least thirty billion a year. Are you interested?"


    He scanned the men''s faces with a condescending gaze, noticing that Ethan focused solely on his cigar, ignoring his words. Jayceon leaned back in his seat, clearly unimpressed. Ernst kept his lips sealed, offering no reaction. Only Denis spoke up. "Drug business is risky. Viper, why aren''t you running it yourself? From what I hear, your resources are solid, and your profits are already high. Why pass such a good opportunity to us?"


    Jayceon exhaled a slow smoke ring and arrogantly said, "So this is the big business you''re pitching? Count me out. I am not interested."


    Jade''s smile faded, and she bluntly said, "You''re in a power struggle with your brother, aren''t you? From what I''ve gathered, Jayceon, your odds don''t look good. If you cooperate with me, the Hewitt family can help you secure the CEO seat at the Russell Corporation."


    Jayceon''s eyes narrowed. "My family''s affairs are none of your business." Meanwhile, Denis was secretly pleased by Jayceon''s attitude. If the Russell family stayed out of this, that was one lesspetitor for him. He said, ¡°Miss Hewitt, could you answer the questions I just asked?"


    Jade held back a frown. The Wagners, with their lowest status among the four great families, were far from her ideal business partners. What she really wanted was for Ethan to cooperate with her. After all, the Mitchells had military connections.


    Ethan tapped the ash from his cigarette and said calmly, "Denis, Viper''s operation hasn''t exactly been thriving. Many of his men were captured. It looks like hiswork has already copsed. That is probably why he is asking us to do this. He takes us for fools."


    "That''s not the right way to put it. This business deal is lucrative. We can get things from this," Denis said Jade asked Ethan, ¡°Ethan, are you interested? Just imagine what ourbined resources could achieve."


    18:15

 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 229

    Chapter 229 We Can Still


    Be Business Partners


    Ethan''s eyes locked onto Jade. He flicked ash from his cigarette and said, "You do realize i could have your


    entire operation raided, right?"


    Jade didn''t doubt it. Ethan''s ties to the military meant one call to his father could bring her drugwerk


    crashing down.


    Still, she believed Ethan wouldn''t do it. To her, he wasn''t bound by rigid principles. He was tough but pragmatic. In her eyes, he was willing to bend the rules when it suited him


    After all, no one could build an empire like his without getting their hands dirty.


    "You won''t do that," Jade calmly said.


    Ethan watched his cigarette burn, and the smoke curled between them. He said, "How do you know I won''t do


    that?"


    He waved his satellite phone and continued, "I''ve got satellite coverage anywhere. One word from me, and your shipment will be in military hands."


    Jade''s manicured nails dug into her palms. One call from that damn phone could end everything for her.


    The next second, she burst intoughter. "You might want to reconsider. This partnership works in both our favor. But if you refuse..."


    "What then?" Ethan asked, unimpressed. You''re going to kill me or something?"


    Seeing Ethan like this, Viper rapped hard on the window behind him, and the signal brought armed guards into


    view.


    "You only brought a woman here," Viper sneered, gesturing to the soldiers outside. "But we have an army." Jayceon and Ernst exchanged nces. With a grave expression, the former asked coldly, "Is this your idea of discussing business with us? Pointing guns at our heads?"


    Jade''s lips curled into a slow, sinister smile. "Why must you put it that way? This is simply... a negotiation."


    Her eyes remained fixed on Ethan, searching his face for the smallest trace of warmth. One gentle word flicker of kindness, and she might back down.


    However, Ethan didn''t waver. He stared back at her. "This isn''t how real business is done. Our families don''t need your drug money."


    Viper''sposure cracked. "So that''s a no to Miss Hewitt? You''ll never see a hundred-billion opportunity like this again. You better consider this carefully, Mr. Mitchell."


    18.15


    Chapter 779 We Can be Bushes Partners


    His gaze elid to fayceon and Ernst, hoping to stir their ambition and make them take the offer willingly


    Ethan''s voice dropped, low and lethal "Do you even know who you''re talking to? You think you''re offering me


    great opportunity? A gutter rat like you doesn''t even belong in this room."


    Viper was pissed off by Ethan''s words. His hand went to his gun


    Jade quickly stopped him and said, "We are just talking business here. In Winess, it''s essential that both sides


    enter into the deal of their own free will."


    Sensing the others'' hesitation, Denis saw an opportunity for his family. He leaned forward and dered, "Miss Hewitt, they only see the risk, but I see the opportunity. My family will cooperate with you"


    The other three turned to him, thinking he had lost his mind. Denis dared to agree


    to do this kind of illegal business, and in front of them, no less. It seemed he wasn''t afraid of them reporting him to the authorities at


    all


    They believed Denis was a fool.


    But Denis didn''t flinch. He stared back at them with defiance. In his eyes, they were nothing but hypocrites. He was convinced they would be sneaking off to Jade and epting the deal the moment this meeting ended.


    Only fools would turn down money. Those three could pretend to be noble now, but greed would always win in


    the end.


    Jade''s mood lifted slightly, Denis wasn''t her ideal choice, but the Wagners held some influence. This partnership might turn out better than expected.


    *still, her eyes kept drifting to Ethan. She wasn''t ready to give up on persuading him to cooperate with her.


    However, Ethan remained impassive.


    Jade believed Ethan had cooperated with cartels before. Maybe he was just weighing the risks and needed time to make up his mind.


    After a long pause with no further offers, Jade shifted gears. She smoothly pulled out some documents and said, "I have legitimate ventures as well, you three. We can still be business partners."


    Jade spread the files across the table-electronics procurements, EV battery contracts, venture capital proposals. Every deal was clean, legal, and lucrative.


    Ernst reached for the top folder. A CEO like him would never ignore potential profit, no matter how many orders hispany already had.


    Even Ethan flipped through some documents with interest. His sharp eyes quickly scanned the pages. Two proposals seemed promising.


    Jade masked her satisfaction. She knew it. Ethan would consider working with her in legal business deal all, he owed her for saving him before.

 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 230

    Chapter 230 Find An Opportunity Later To Kill.....


    Brenna could hear the soft murmur of Ethan and the others'' conversation through her earpiece, the words clear, but the specifics of their "business" remained unclear. The vague references hinted strongly at something


    illegal.


    She took out her phone and checked it. Her satellite phone''s signal remained strong


    Brenna weighed her options and decided to observe the situation for a while. She recognized the challenges of reporting the uwful business from international waters-response times could be dyed.


    And if Jade''s people discovered her little tricks, everyone on this yacht would be in danger.


    Her eyes surveyed the scene, counting at least thirty armed guards. She wouldn''t be able to take them on even with her gun.


    Confrontation was not an option.


    Brenna took over one side of the grill, and the other three women gathered opposite her.


    Sabine was pleased with herself, the enticing smell adding to her sense of satisfaction as she convinced herself she had surpassed Brenna in grilling the food.


    She mocked Brenna, "Where''s that confidence now? You imed expertise with cooking the tuna. But you''ve turned it into trash. Even a roadside vendor could do better than you."


    Brenna wore a faint smile, ignoring her.


    Seeing that, Sabine let out a snort.


    The moment was interrupted as Jade emerged with Ethan and the others. She was walking alongside Ethan, a victorious grin spread across her face.


    han, wearing a smile, exchanged words with Jade, even shaking hands with her.


    "To a prosperous coboration!" Jade eximed. ¡°And remember, I helped youst time. You owe me a meal


    for that."


    "Of course," Ethan responded graciously.


    Brenna observed them with a blend of curiosity and doubt. Hadn''t Jade been talking about some sort c dealings earlier? Why had Ethan agreed to work with her?


    ly


    Catching Brenna''s gaze, Jade misread it, thinking Brenna was jealous. She tightened, her hold on Ethan''s hand with a smug smile, intending to upset Brenna.


    Brenna maintained a calm expression as she turned her focus to the skewers.


    18:15


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    Ethan felt a sharp twinge in his chest as he noticed Brenna''s reaction and immediately withdrew his hand.


    Jade let out augh and teased, "Why so nervous, Mr. Mitchell? It was just a friendly handshake."


    Ethan''s lips thinned into a tight line as he pulled out a tissue and meticulously wiped his hand.


    Jade''s smile faded, reced by a look of displeasure. ¡°What are you suggesting by doing this? Do you think I''m


    filthy?"


    Jayceon''sughter rang out from behind, harsh and mocking, while Ernst was struggling to suppress his


    amusement.


    Ethan tossed the tissue aside, avoiding Jade''s gaze as he moved to Brenna''s side and asked gently, "Is it ready?"


    The warmth in his voice and the softness of his gaze could melt any heart. Jade''s face contorted with a mix of rage and jealousy as she observed their interaction.


    Meanwhile, Viper, who had been standing near Jade, kept his cold stare fixed on Ethan and Brenna.


    Jayceon and Ernst joined in at the grill, ready to help with the barbecue.


    Sabine and Fay yfully served their grilled dishes to their boyfriends, their faces lit with sweet smiles.


    Brenna, more reserved, simply offered one of her skewers to Ethan, asking, "Care to try?"


    Ethan epted it eagerly,plimenting it after a taste. "Not bad," he said.


    He then reached for an uncooked skewer in Brenna''s hand. "I''ll take over the grilling," he said. "Let me show you how."


    Brenna hesitated, feeling uncertain. She hadn''t tried any of the skewers herself, and Ethan didn''t look like he was enjoying the food. Could it be that Ethan was just being polite by giving hispliment earlier?


    Before Brenna could think further, she saw that Ethan had already devoured a whole skewer of fish.


    Curious, Brenna sampled another skewer of fish herself, only to spit it out instantly.


    "This tastes terrible," she said.


    She looked at Ethan apologetically. "You didn''t have to force yourself to eat that.¡±


    Ethan''s response came with a gentle smile and a look of deep affection. "How could I possibly let my sweetheart''s first attempt at grilling go to waste?"


    Brenna sighed, a hint of resignation in her voice. "I grilled it just like how the chef at home always did it."


    Laughing softly, Ethan began to sprinkle some spices on the ingredients. "Try adding some cumin powder," he suggested, showing her. "And a bit of chili kes for spice. Make sure it''s evenly distributed on each side."


    Watching closely, Brenna mimicked his actions, seasoning a new skewer.


    From a distance, Jade watched them, her feelings of jealousy intensifying with


    each of Ethan''s tender gestures toward Brenna.


    Viper leaned in, his voice a low whisper filled with menace. "Find an opportunityter to kill that woman."


    Jade didn''t speak, her gaze turning dark.


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    Chapter 230 Find An Opportunity Later To Kill That Woman


    Denisforted her, saying, "Don''t worry, I know how to deal with situations like


    thi

 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 231

    Chapter 231 Did You Really Expect Me To Just Let Th...


    Jade''s gaze sharpened as she observed the cozy interaction between Ethan and Brenna, feeling a twinge of difort with every affectionate look they


    exchanged


    She walked confidently to Ethan''s side, positioning herself firmly next to him. Her move made it clear she waspeting for his attention, challenging Brenna without a word.


    "Ethan," Jade said sweetly, an unusual tone in her voice. "Would you show me how to do that? I''m eager to pick up some of your grilling techniques."


    At the ingredient station, Denis and Viper grouped together just as Isabe joined Denis, pushing her skewers toward him with hopeful eyes.


    Denis sampled her skewers and offered a brief nod, saying, "Not bad."


    Isabe turned to Brenna with a smirk and said, "Looks like I''ve got the upper hand in cooking! You''re not as perfect as you think, Brenna."


    As Jade neared the grill, Sabine and Fay swiftly walked over to her, offering their skewers with sweet smiles. "Miss Hewitt," they said. "We made these just for you. Please, have a taste."


    Jade was caught in an awkward moment. She paused with her skewer mid-air as Ethan remained silent, ignoring her.


    The interruption from Sabine and Fay gave Jade the perfect diversion from her embarrassing moment.


    With gracefulposure, she took their skewers, sampled them, and said, "They taste good."


    Sabine grinned, clearly pleased with her cooking. "I''ve practiced a lot atpany events," she said with pride. "Just let us know if you''d like more, Miss Hewitt." Jade responded with a slight nod, her eyes darting meaningfully towards Brenna. Taking the hint, Sabine and Fay seized the chance and positioned themselves between Ethan and Brenna, intentionally interrupting their conversation.


    Even though there were three grills avable, they purposely gathered around the one Ethan and Brenna chose. Brenna quickly realized their strategy.


    Pretending to be unaware, Brenna proudly disyed her skewer to Ethan. "Check out this perfect skewe., said, showing the shiny, cooked meat.


    Her action was a deliberate response. As she maneuvered, the skewer, dripping with sauce, brushed Sabine''s immacte white dress.


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    Chapter 211 Did You Really Expect Me To Just Let That Slide


    Sabine''s scream cut through the air. "You clumsy idiot!" she eximed. "Look what you''ve done to my dress


    Ethan, meanwhile, seemed unaffected and offered Brenna a skewer. "Try this," he said, his tone hinting at a silent understanding between them.


    Fay swiftly moved out of the way, narrowly avoiding getting stained herself.


    Seeing the scene unfold, Ethan waved his skewer intentionally near the cle sections of Sabine''s dress.


    Enraged and defeated, Sabine quit her n and stormed away to Ernst, her dress stained,ining, "I didn''t bring extra clothes!" Her initial joy ofing here waspletely gone.


    Ernst frowned, turning his undercooked skewer over the mes, his attention stolen by Brenna and Ethan''s cozy moment nearby. The duo was all smiles, their affectionate gestures evident. They didn''t seem to care about having ruined Sabine''s dress at all.


    "Why did you have to interfere like that?" Ernst''s frustration erupted, determined not to interfere with Brenna''s happiness. "Does Miss Hewitt really need you to do something like that for her?"


    His gaze hardened, growing cold. "I can''t understand why you keep provoking Brenna. If you still want to be with me, you need to stop that.¡±


    Sabine''s lip trembled slightly. "But she ruined my dress!" she eximed, her voice growing more frantic. "How can you still defend her like this?"


    Ernst merely grunted, dismissing herint as he concentrated on achieving the perfect char on his skewer. Left with no choice, Sabine scrubbed desperately at the stains, but they clung to the fabric, refusing to budge. Sabine nced at Jade, hoping for some sympathy but finding none. Jade''splete indifference to her situation was painfully obvious.


    At that moment, it hit her with full force, she must have seemed foolish to Jade, failing at such a simple n. Humiliated, Sabine faced Brenna and, with a dramatic sweep of her arm, deliberately tipped over a tub of sauce, sending a flood of condiment spilling toward Brenna.


    Sabine said bitterly, "This is what you deserve, bitch." Her face contorted with malice.


    However, Ethan quickly sprang into action, pulling Brenna out of the way of the oing mess. His arm wrapped around her in a protective hold.


    A faint smile flickered across Ethan''s face. He was clearly aware of Sabine''s intent. In response, he purposefully knocked over a nearby sauce container, drenching Sabine in its contents.


    Brenna couldn''t hold back herughter, her voice dripping with mock concern. "Oh, that stain looks rather permanent."


    Her amusement was obvious, her enjoyment of the situation barely concealed.


    "Seems like karma to me,¡± Brenna added, watching Sabine''s horrified reaction to her newly stained attire


    Ernst''s quiet disapproval spoke volumes as he just shot Sabine a dismissive nce, ''then turned his attention back to the grill, making it clear that he was not going to help her.


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    Sabine, outraged, cried out, "Mr. Mitchell, how could you do this?"


    Without missing a beat, Ethan responded, "Did you think I''d just stand by while you tried to cause trouble for my woman? An insult to Brenna is an insult to me. Did you really expect me to just let that slide?"


    Brenna nodded in agreement, her contentment evident.


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 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 232

    Chapter 232 St¨®p Questioning Her


    Jade''s nails dug into her palms as Ethan''s address of Brenna as "my woman" slipped through the air with deliberate provocations. Every endearment between themnded like a p against her very public affections.


    Was this his way of refusing her?


    Jade''s gaze turned to Brenna, sharp as daggers. The intent behind her narrowed eyes was unmistakable. She wanted her gone.


    A subtle flick of Jade''s eyes sent Viper drifting closer. He caught the murderous implication at once. Her order was clear. However, with Ethan and Ernst near Brenna, any move would have to wait. He needed to take action when Brenna was alone.


    Brenna was oblivious to the coiled threat and only had her mind on Braeden''s promise. Were his people sent to protect her close? If not, had they done something else to protect her safety?


    Her thoughts shattered as Jayceon appeared across the grill, with Fay clinging to his arm.


    Brenna couldn''t help noticing Jayceon''s skill at the grill. His movements were smooth and precise. Also, the skewers came off perfectly cooked and seasoned just right. It was obvious he had done this plenty of times before, probably alongside Ethan and Ernst.


    However, there was something Brenna couldn''t understand. Why unt Fay when everyone knew he was supposedly courting Ellie?


    Before Brenna could say anything, Jayceon said, "Ellie has been ghosting me. Even Patrick is keeping his distance. Any idea why?"


    The meaning in his words was not so subtle. He must be scared his yboy habits had reached Ellie''s ears. He wanted to know if Brenna had told Ellie anything about it.


    Brenna snapped, "You already have a woman by your side now, Mr. Russell. How could you still think about another woman? Don''t you think Fay might be displeased hearing that?"


    Right on cue, Fay pursed her lips and tightened her grip on Jayceon''s arm. "Jayceon, I''m right here. How could you ask about another woman? Am I not enough for you?"


    The sweet disy turned Brenna''s stomach.


    Ethan cast a brief nce at Brenna, then leveled a cold warning stare at Jayceon. Brenna was his woman. any disrespect toward her would not be tolerated.


    The unspoken message in his gaze was crystal clear.


    ...d


    Jayceon stiffened, irritation flickering behind his eyes. He had long suspected Brenna was the one who had


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    Chapter 282 Stop Questioning iter


    exposed his womanizing to Ellie, and that was why Ellie had refused to get back together with him.


    He just hadn''t found the time to ask Brenna about the matter before.


    Fay tugged insistently at Jayceon''s arm, demanding his attention


    One sharp re from Jayceon shut her up instantly. She knew full well that she wasn''t his first choice. She was only here because she had begged him to bring her.


    Jayceon''s original n had been to invite Ellie and Patrick. But after countless ignored calls, Ellie finally picked up, only to reject him outright.


    No amount of sweet-talking could sway Ellie''s refusal.


    That was why Jayceon had brought Fay here,


    Catching Ethan''s warning re, Jayceon reined in his temper. "Miss Harper, my feelings for Ellie are real. I''d appreciate it if you stopped turning her against me. Your words have caused misunderstandings between us." Brenna saw straight through it. His calm facade couldn''t hide the anger simmering beneath the surface. She wasn''t in the mood to y nice. And Fay''s presence only stoked her frustration.


    She said, "Stop pretending you care about Ellie. You don''t bring a side piece to an important gathering if you''re serious about her. Do you even realize what it means to introduce Fay to your friends and business partners


    like this?"


    Fay smiled smugly, knowing exactly what it meant. Jayceon was sending a message. She was his girlfriend, possibly even his future wife.


    "Jayceon''s face darkened. "It means nothing. Fay and I are just friends."


    Brenna''s eyes shed with renewed anger. "Is that so? Because from where I''m standing, you''re making it very clear that Fay is the woman you''ve chosen to stand beside you."


    Jayceon''s temper red. "But Ellie is my son''s mother! If she really wanted nothing to do with me, why keep the child?"


    Brenna let out a sharp, humorlessugh before saying, "Your confidence is unbelievable. Ellie''s decision to keep the child is her own; it has nothing to do with you. Don''t tter yourself. She could just get her son a stepfather. You''re hardly indispensable. You can forget about getting back together with her."


    Ethan couldn''t stand watching his friend argue with Brenna. From his perspective, Jayceon wasn''t just arguing with her. He was confronting her.


    He had stood by Jayceon through countless missteps. However, losing Ellie''s love was the consequence of Jayceon''s poor choices; it had nothing to do with Brenna.


    "Enough," Ethan interjected sharply. "What Brenna said is right. Stop questioning her."


    Meanwhile, Ernst slowly shook his head. His disapproval of Jayceon echoed everyone''s sentiment. Briny here had been a mistake. He believed Jayceon deserved Brenna''s harsh words.


    ay


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    Chapter 233 You''re


    Nothing But A Worthless...


    Jayceon''s anger erupted further, and he confronted Ethan. "Really? Brenna is new in your life. We have a whole childhood together. Why are you taking her side?"


    Ethan''s expression chilled. ¡°She''s going to be my wife. I won''t let anyone bully her-not even my family, and certainly not a friend."


    Brenna let out a loudugh, her eyes shining with triumph as she looked at Jayceon.


    Overwhelmed by his emotions but needing to appeal to Brenna, Jayceon softened his voice. "Miss Harper, please, I just need you to do one thing-stay out of my business with Ellie."


    "You want me to stay out of it?" Brenna''sughter was tinged with scorn. "Do you even understand what Ellie has been through because of you? You''re nothing but a worthless yboy who haspletely lost the right to be forgiven by her. You say you love her, yet you''ve never stopped messing with other women. Ask yourself, do you truly love her?"


    After a pause, she continued, "She pushed her family away for you. She was alone in Norview, giving birth to your child while you weren''t there. You were probably spending time with other women at that time. She has been a single mother, juggling jobs, leaving her baby alone to cry while she worked. And you? Likely indulging in another romantic conquest. You don''t love her; you only love yourself."


    Brenna''s gaze was sharp. "You''ve created every crisis she has had to endure. Now, just as she has found some peace, you show up to ruin it once more? What right do you have to be in her life again? She said to me that it was only Patrick''s requests for his father that made here back to the country. If it hadn''t been for his pleas, she would have cut you off entirely."


    Jayceon flinched, his guilt clearly showing. "I know it''s my fault. But I can change. Don''t I deserve the chance to fix things?"


    Brenna let out a cold chuckle. "You want a chance? She already gave you one before, but you came here with another woman. You''ve lost any right to another chance."


    Brenna''s words left Jayceon speechless against the unyielding truth.


    With a disdainful nce thrown at Jayceon, Brenna redirected her focus to grilling skewers alongside Ethan.


    Announcing a brief departure, Brenna said to Ethan, "I''m off to the restroom." She handed him the sk grabbed her purse, and headed inside the yacht.


    Viper watched her walk away for a moment before quietly slipping away to follow her.


    Ethan noticed the Viper''s movement and spoke quietly into a hidden microphone. "You''ve gotpany. Stay sharp."


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    Chapter 233 You''re Nothing But A Worthless yboy


    Once inside the yacht, Brenna quickly surveyed the luxurious bathroom and then ensured her privacy by locking the door with a decisive click.


    She took a defensive stance, halting as she heard footsteps approach quietly from the outside. Her fingers brushed against the concealed weapons strapped to her thigh-a small pistol and a dagger.


    She believed the locked door should have been enough to ensure her safety.


    However, the sound of a key turning in the lock shattered that sense of security. Brenna''s breath hitched. She hadn''t expected anyone to have keys to the restroom. This was so creepy.


    The door creaked open with cold precision as Viper stepped inside, closing and locking it behind him.


    Brenna kept one hand hidden as she faced him. "I think you''re lost," she said, her tone deadly calm. "This is


    the women''s restroom."


    Viper''s smile broadened. "There''s no mistake here, sweetheart. I''m exactly where I need to be," he said


    confidently.


    He smirked and looked her over slowly. His gaze was filled with dark intentions.


    "Just curious why Mr. Mitchell is so obsessed with you," said Viper as he advanced slowly towards Brenna, eyeing her cautious stance.


    Aware of her reputation forbat, he recalled that not even Jay''s toughest men could defeat her. He knew she was not easy to deal with.


    Yet, he was unfazed, confident in his superior gunmanship, quick and deadly.


    Brenna remained motionless against the wall as she said casually, "So what?"


    Viper held his weapon out with confidence. "Drop the knife. A bullet moves faster than any de. If you have any sense, take off your clothes."


    In response, Brenna revealed her concealed pistol.


    "A gun?" Viper''s voice wavered. He was clearly surprised.


    "In the Harper family, it''s normal to carry firearms," Brenna said coolly.


    Suddenly, a knock sounded from outside, followed by Ethan''s voice calling out, "Brenna, are you in there?"


    "Yes, I am here!" Without hesitation, Brenna fired, aiming at Viper''s forehead. Viper was caught off guard by her decisive action.


    His reaction was too slow, and the bullet was quicker.


    Stunned, he copsed backward, dead.


    Ethan''s panic was unmistakable as he pounded on the door, startled by the gunshot. "Brenna!" he shouted


    "I''m fine,¡± Brenna assured him, stepping past Viper''s body to unlock the door. When Ethan stepped inside, he was confronted with the sight of Viper''s lifeless body. Just then, security personnel came, their guns aimed at Brenna.


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    Chapter 233 You''re Nothing But A Worthless yboy


    Jade walked over, furious. "You killed him!"


    Ethan stepped in front of Brenna, defending her without hesitation, saying. He got what he deserved for following a woman into the restroom Brenna only acted in self-defense. If you have a problem with this, take it


    up with me."


    Win a chance to read for free!>>>

 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 234

    Chapter 234 Taking Her Hostage


    Jade had badly underestimated Brenna, assuming she would be an easy target for Viper, whosebat skills were usually unrivaled.


    She was confused by the situation. How could Brenna, who seemed so delicate, have been able to kill Viper?


    Viper couldn''t even overpower a woman? So useless!


    The unexpected turn of events left Jade shocked. Her eyes, filled with intense hatred, locked onto Brenna.


    As Vand''s undergroundworks crumbled and key distributors were arrested, Viper''s role in establishing new connections had been crucial. Now, with his death, Jade found herself uncertain about the future of her


    business.


    Jade hissed with fury, "You''ll pay for this with your life, Brenna!¡±


    Jade gave a subtle nod, signaling two more gunmen to enter. Their weapons clicked ominously as they loaded them and aimed them at Brenna.


    Ethan moved quickly, drawing his gun and pulling Jade over, the cold muzzle pressing against her head. "One move, and she''s dead," he said coldly.


    Jayceon and Ernst, caught off guard by the sudden esction of the situation, stopped at the entrance, watching


    the tense scene.


    They then reacted immediately, raising their guns in unison, aiming them at the armed guards.


    Denis found himself unarmed, regretting hisck of preparation for what was happening. He had really thought this was going to be a simple gathering.


    In a calcted move, Denis discreetly retreated to the men''s restroom for cover. Brenna, meanwhile, positioned herself strategically behind Ethan, her firearm aimed at the opposing gunmen.


    Jade had never expected Ethan to take her hostage. He was gripping her neck tightly, causing her pain without any hint ofpassion.


    Jade said, "Ethan, what are you doing? Are you truly nning to marry this cold- blooded killer? She just killed a man! Lower your gun; let''s resolve this peacefully."


    Understanding Jade''s merciless nature well, Ethan knew she cared little for the lives of her own crew. Viper death didn''t matter to her.


    Her anger was probably driven by his importance to her operations.


    Ethan''s voice was icy as he ordered, "Tell your men to stand down, or I''ll shoot."


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    Chapter 234 Taking Her Hostage


    He increased the pressure of the gun against her head, tilting it. Jade stiffened, fearful of the gun going off.


    "Ethan," she pleaded urgently, "why choose Brenna over me? She''s ruthless, taking lives without hesitation.


    How can you be at peace being with someone like her? I love you more, and I can help advance your career


    with my connections. I''m also not as cruel as her. Ethan, choose me. I''m the better choice for you."


    As she saw his indifference, tears welled up in her eyes, and her frustration grew.


    Suddenly, a gunshot rang out as Ethan fired a warning shot into the wall. "This is yourst chance-drop your weapons, or I''ll put a bullet in her head."


    His words were cold, and while he considered his escape options, his grip of the gun remained firm.


    The security team hesitated, torn between giving up their guns and letting Ethan take control of the yacht or resisting and putting their boss'' life in danger.


    Jayceon and Ernst cautiously moved closer, their weapons ready, eyeing the armed men.


    Running out of patience, Ethan acted decisively and shot Jade in the arm.


    The sound of the gunshot echoed sharply.


    Jade let out a painful cry. "You really shot me?" she gasped, staring at Ethan in disbelief. "How dare you shoot me because of her?"


    In that instant, any lingering affection she had for him hardened into pure resentment. It was clear that she meant nothing to him.


    "Drop your weapons," Ethan said again.


    With reluctance, the guardsplied, dropping their weapons.


    "Now, leave!" Ethan roared.


    Just then, a dark, submarine silhouette slowly emerged beneath the surface of the


    sea.


    Shadowy figures then appeared, moving like phantoms as they silently climbed the yacht''s sides with wless precision. No one noticed them.


    The first deck had minimal guards, as most had rushed to the upper deck in response to the gunshot, leaving it poorly defended.


    The remaining guards surveyed the vast, empty seascape, seeing no other vessels in sight. They were certain that there was no danger here.


    They were engrossed in the unfolding drama above as if watching a y.


    But the next second, their mouths were covered by gloved hands, and their lives were taken with quick, precise knife cuts to their throats.


    Within moments, the deck was stained with the lifeless bodies of the guards.


    A group of twelve operatives moved in quiet coordination, heading toward the second deck with weapons drawn and ready.


    Another group of twenty quickly appeared and entered the lower cabins, following Interpol''s intelligence about


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    < The

 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 235

    Chapter 235 Arrested


    A helicopter awaited on the third-level deck-a detail Ethan had noted earlier for


    their escape.


    "Head to the roof!" he said to Brenna. "We''re using the helicopter to leave."


    Jayceon and Ernst quickly helped theirpanions into the helicopter, with Brenna climbing in after them.


    Ethan was thest on the deck, still maintaining his grip on Jade.


    Unexpectedly, Jade''sbat training kicked in.


    Distracted by a look towards Brenna, Ethan felt Jade twist his wrist, forcing his gun to drop loudly onto the


    deck.


    Before he could react, Jade had another gun pressed against his head.


    "Step off the helicopter now!" Jade''smand cut through the air, her remaining guards rushing away to get


    guns.


    Brenna acted instinctively, her shot hitting Jade''s arm, which was wielding the gun, causing Jade to walk away from Ethan and seek cover.


    Ethan leaped into the helicopter quickly.


    When the boarding team reached the third deck, the guards reappeared, armed and ready. However, they were swiftly overpowered by a barrage of gunfire by the team, their bodies falling almost immediately. Blood spread beneath the dead bodies.


    "Useless!" Jade snarled at her fallen guards,beling them as ipetent.


    Ignoring her wound, she sprinted to the railing and jumped, wanting to plunge into the sea to flee. She knew she would be put in jail for a lifetime if the narcotics stash on the yacht were discovered.


    However, divers in ck had already secured the second deck, stopping her escape.


    Trapped, she yelled at Ethan, "I saved your life, and this is how you repay me?¡±


    Everyone on the chopper were confused-there was not even a ship or boat for miles, yet special forces hade here.


    One diver removed his mask and said, "All clear now. Come down."


    Brenna was the first to jump down from the helicopter, her mind racing with confusion over the situation.


    The others followed, equally stunned by the sudden military intervention.


    On the deck, Jade relentlessly threw curses, firmly convinced of Ethan''s betrayal.


    The soldiers'' respectful treatment of the others only deepened her frustration, especially in stark contrast to


    18:16


    Chapter 235 Arrested


    the rough arrest she had endured. They should all be suspects here, yet only she was treated this way.


    This pointed her toward a grim realization that one of them-Ethan, Jayceon, or Ernst must have been the one


    who had reported her.


    She didn''t suspect Brenna because Brenna had had no idea that she was going to be here before.


    "How foolish I was to save you in Norview!" Jade said to Ethan.


    Jade''s tone became even more venomous as she was handcuffed. "You''ll regret this. The Ward family won''t let this go."


    On the deck, crew members pulled up dark parcels, more than a hundred ck and blue packages, each weighing more than five kilos. Uniformed troops lined them up methodically.


    Ethan watched the officers as they counted the stash, noticing the nces from some of the higher-ups toward his group. It was obvious they were considering what to do with them.


    For Ethan, the situation was disastrous. His association with such a massive amount of illegal goods left him without any believable excuse.


    The idea of Brenna being dragged into this was intolerable, filling him with a deep sense of remorse. He regretted bring her over this time.


    He attempted to call for help, reaching for his phone, but a corporal snatched it away quickly.


    "This is on me," Ethan whispered to Brenna, crafting a story in his mind where Brenna was innocent, unaware of anything. He resolved to take all the me.


    Before long, a military cruiser appeared on the horizon, apanied by helicopters hovering overhead, their machine guns aimed at them.


    "We''re cooked," Jayceon whispered under his breath.


    Ernst''s face also turned dark. "With all that product? There''s no way they''ll believe we didn''t know anything


    about it."


    "And Jade even showed us some drug samples earlier in the cabin," Jayceon said grimly. "The security footage will reveal everything. Looks like we''re all heading to prison."


    Ernst said, his concern growing, "Maybe we will even get a death sentence."


    A soldier approached them, clipboard in hand. ¡°Everyone, follow me for questioning," he said.


    Ernst, Jayceon, and Ethan shared a look filled with unease.


    Trailing slightly behind them, Brenna mentally rehearsed her defense, knowing how unbelievable it would sound. Would she be able to convince the


    interrogators?


    As they walked, Ethan leaned closer to Brenna, his voice urgent. "Stick to one story-you only came for the barbecue. Nothing more."


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 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 236

    Chapter 236 Rosie Causing Trouble Again


    Brenna quietly nodded, skillfully removing the hidden earpiece and holding it in her hand. She knew the military would eventually find it, so it was better to surrender it willingly than risk being used of hiding it.


    Her judgment proved wise.


    After a night of grueling interrogation at a Shirie military base, Brenna and the others were released by noon


    the next day.


    It was only upon her release that Brenna discovered the truth behind the operation. The guards protecting her had tipped off the authorities, knowing they couldn''t afford to lose her, a crucial asset in fighter jet design.


    The military, though unable to gather concrete evidence of Jade''s n to harm Brenna, decided it was safer to be cautious and arranged for a secure escort to take Brenna back to her home.


    Each individual was transported back to their respective homes. Ernst and Sabine, having lived together, both


    returned to Ernst''s apartment.


    With the door shut behind them, Ernst let out a heavy sigh. "We are done, Sabine.


    I think we''re not right for


    each other."


    He spoke in a firm tone, effortlessly tossing his suit jacket onto the couch. The events earlier had only reinforced his thought that Sabine was unable to get along well with Brenna.


    He had finally grasped the worries his mother had expressed earlier. Sabine''s maniptive nature and constant scheming all pointed to one thing-she was after his money.


    Sabine felt aggrieved, her eyes welling up with tears. Her dress still bore a noticeable stain, yet Ernst had shown no concern for her on their way back. Now, he was even putting an end to their rtionship.


    "Why? Just because of what I said to your sister? I thought I was protecting your interests! She took away your shares and pushed you out of the Harper Group. Don''t you resent her for that?"


    Her voice, a mix of anger and confusion, echoed as she asked, "What did I actually do wrong?"


    In desperation, she gripped Ernst''s hand.


    Ernst''s expression was one of annoyance. "You know exactly why. Haven''t I exined before? I gave Bren: those shares willingly, and she didn''t force me out. I was the one who chose to sign that agreement. Wh me her for my decisions? Yesterday, you sided with her enemies and openly plotted against her. If we got married, you would spend your whole life opposing Brenna. That is not something I want."


    Taken by surprise, Sabine paused, her lip trembling. "I... I never meant for that to happen. I just couldn''t stand watching her take advantage of you. Let''s not let this cause any more conflict between us. I realize I was wrong.


    1816


    From now on, I''ll make an effort to get along with her. I will even apologize to her if you want me to."


    Sabine was painfully aware that losing Ernst would also mean losing a lifestyle that most could only dream of. Coming from humble beginnings, she was unable


    to find anyone better than Ernst. She was unwilling to let go


    of him.


    Her intentions had always been to help Ernst regain his rightful ce and shares in the Harper Group.


    Now cut off from the Harper Group, Ernst controlled only several smaller firms that, while sessful, didn''t offer nearly the financial return of his previous dividends.


    Sabine reminded herself to be patient and strategic in her tactics.


    It was clear Ernst held Brenna in high regard. Sabotaging their rtionship would


    be difficult and would demand a more subtle approach.


    "I''ll go and apologize to Brenna today," she said.


    After a brief pause, Ernst gave in. "Please, just try to get along with her. Brenna can be very friendly, as long as she''s not provoked."


    Sabine offered a reassuring smile. "I understand. Why don''t you go rx and take a shower? I''ll prepare some


    food for you."


    Ernst nodded in agreement. Then, he saw the stains on her dress. "You might want to change out of that dress and take a shower as well."


    Fortunately, the two bathrooms in his duplex made it possible for them to shower at the same time.


    Meanwhile, after taking a shower, Brenna headed to her room when Julia appeared, offering a te of grapes. "Ms. Harper, Mrs. Harper wants you to prepare for a weekend trip to visit your grandfather. She couldn''t reach you earlier and requested you call her back."


    Brenna responded coolly, "I''ll keep that in mind. Are there any other updates from the household?"


    "Everything is fine," Julia replied. "Though Mrs. Harper seemed troubled after her visit with Rosie yesterday. At dinner, she mentioned to your father that Rosie had beenining to your grandfather about you."


    Brenna nodded, having already expected this. Rosie was known for causing drama whenever she felt overlooked.


    Unfamiliar with Luther''s current attitude, Brenna prepared herself for possible criticism during her uin


    visit to him.


    After calling Giselle, Brenna muted her phone and slept, missing calls from Sabine.


    She woketer to see a series of missed calls from unknown numbers and messages from Greta.

 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 237

    Chapter 237 An Old


    ssmate


    Brenna was d in a navy blue chiffon blouse that flowed gracefully, paired with matching trousers that danced lightly with her movements. Her white sneakers added a touch of casual aura, while her wavy hair tumbled freely down her back like a waterfall of silk.


    Julia presented the lunchbox with both hands, her expression earnest. "Ms. Harper, everything is ready just as you asked. The dishes were all neatly packed in thermal containers."


    "Thank you, Julia,¡± Brenna replied with a cheerful smile, her heart light as she drove toward the Mitchell Group headquarters. The yacht incident had crystallized her thoughts about Ethan-he was a decent man worth her


    attention.


    As Brenna entered the soaring, tech-savvy lobby, the lunchbox cradled in her arms, she stepped lightly, taking


    in her surroundings.


    The Mitchell Group''s office building exuded a futuristic vibe, with sleek humanoid robots gliding through the


    lobby.


    "Job applicants can proceed to Elevator One for the tenth floor," a female-voiced android announced as Brenna


    walked past.


    "I am not here to apply for a job," Brenna replied, her gaze lingering on the robots'' impressive design and Al capabilities, especially as one patiently answered questions from eager candidates.


    Behind the front desk, four impably dressed receptionists-two men and two women-maintained perfect smiles, their polished appearances reflecting the Mitchell Group''s ethos.


    Approaching one of the female receptionists, Brenna said coolly, "Excuse me. Could you tell me where Mr.


    Mitchell''s office is located?"


    Four pairs of eyes flicked toward her, momentarily clouded with condescension.


    Yet, professionalism soon took over, and the receptionist said to Brenna, "Miss, do you have an appointment?"


    As the receptionist studied Brenna, a flicker of recognition sparked in her expression. Before Brenna could reply, the receptionist''s face brightened. "Are you Brenna Barrett?"


    Brenna scrutinized the woman''s features, a vague familiarity tickling her memory.


    The receptionist added, "I am Mia Cox! I was your ssmate in elementary school. You always sat behind me. During our school days, I chased your perfect scores but never caught up! Do you remember it now?"


    Recognition washed over Brenna. This cheerful receptionist was indeed her old ssmate. "Mia! What a delightful surprise. You work at the Mitchell Group now?"


    <


    Chapter 237 An Old ssmate


    "I was freshly graduated from Shirie University," Mia said, her pride evident. "I beat out hundreds of Ivy League


    candidates for this position. It was a fiercepetition."


    Brenna smiled softly, her demeanor warming. "Congrattions. By the way, I go by Brenna Harper now."


    Mia''s expression shifted, surprise coloring her features. She recalled Brenna''s family owning a factory back in their school days, making her one of the wealthiest kids in their ss. Brenna had been the top student, effortlessly captivating everyone''s admiration.


    It had been unfortunate that Brenna had abruptly dropped out in fourth grade, leaving teachers and the principalmenting her departure.


    Initially, ssmates had thought she had transferred, but over time, they had learned she had left school


    altogether.


    Everyone had found it truly regrettable.


    Mia''s gaze grewplicated as she looked at Brenna, a flicker of pity surfacing. It was such a shame that Brenna had notpleted her education. Had Brenna continued, she undoubtedly could have attended a prestigious university like her. Having heard whispers about the Barrett family''s recent bankruptcy, Mia realized that Brenna was no longer the affluent heiress she had once been.


    Curiosity getting the better of her, Mia asked, "Why did you change yourst name?"


    Brenna replied in a calm voice, "The Barretts aren''t my biological parents. I''ve found my birth family now."


    "Oh, I see," Mia responded, her gaze lingering on Brenna''s obviously expensive attire. Judging by Brenna''s striking beauty, she couldn''t help but assume that she must have found herself a sugar daddy. She was probably some old rich man''s mistress now.


    Mia let out a sigh.


    The once-unreachable daughter of the Barrett family hadnded in such a situation.


    Mia said to Brenna, "Are you here for a job interview? The executive secretary position requires at least a master''s degree. You didn''t evenplete elementary school. It just won''t work. Besides, you can''t go straight to the CEO. Human Resources manages all recruitment. Even good looks won''t give you a free pass. Listen, I''m doing my best to help you here, butpany policy prohibits me from revealing the CEO''s office to just anyone.


    I''m really sorry."


    Though Mia was mistaken, Brenna felt no irritation. She didn''t want the Mitchell Group employees to know that their CEO had a girlfriend. If she shared that with Mia, it would spread like wildfire through thepany.


    Brenna preferred to keep things discreet.


    She said, "I''m not here for a job interview. Just tell me which floor Mr. Mitchell is on, I''ll find my own way."


    Frustration crept into Mia''s tone as her politeness began to wane. "Without an appointment, you won''t be able to meet Mr. Mitchell Being beautiful won''t change that. Mr. Mitchell is notcking in admirers. Brenna, you should take my advice and leave. Mr. Mitchell is out of your league."

 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 238

    Chapter 238 His Ringtone


    "You don''t have to worry about that," Brenna stated evenly. "Mr. Mitchell will see me."


    Had she not wanted to give Ethan a surprise, she wouldn''t have wasted time justifying herself to a receptionist.


    Yet, for now, she exercised patience with Mia.


    But Brenna''s confidence came across as the aura of an arrogant mistress to Mia. The news of the Barrett Group''s bankruptcy only intensified Mia''s disdain. She knew Brenna was no longer the daughter of a wealthy family but just another ordinary woman like her.


    The Harper surname held no weight for Mia. It was clear to her that Brenna was trying to seduce Ethan bying here.


    With a tone dripping in derision, Mia shot back, "Don''t get ahead of yourself. Our headquarters is filled with dozens of beauties; none of them attract Mr. Mitchell''s special attention. If every smitten employee demanded. meetings, Mr. Mitchell would be swamped from dawn to dusk. Unless you have genuine business, I suggest you leave. We still have work to do here."


    Mia''s patience had reached its end.


    Abandoning the surprise, Brenna grabbed her phone and called Ethan.


    Mia exchanged knowing smirks with a male colleague. ¡°A fake call to Mr. Mitchell,


    I see," she muttered. "We get these gold-digging types every day. Only our school connection keeps me from calling security on her."


    The male receptionist let out a cold chuckle. "Social media delusions, if you ask me. These girls always think billionaires are chasing after pretty faces. They all believe they stand a chance. But billionaires aren''t fools; they prefer substance over superficial charm."


    "Should we get her out of here quickly? She might stir up troubleter,¡± Mia said.


    Nodding, the male colleague reached for his radio to summon security.


    In the conference room.


    Ethan was in the midst of a meeting with thepany''s executives.


    Managers from various branches and several shareholders sat around the long conference table, hanging on Ethan''s every word.


    "Our robotics R&D has made significant strides, sessfullyunching over a dozen industrial andmercial robot models. Within the next quarter, we''ll roll out a full market release to gauge consumer response and make the necessary adjustments..."


    Ethan was meticulouslyying out the corporate strategy when a distinctive ringtone pierced the air from his dress shirt pocket.


    Chapter 238 His Ringtone


    He had assigned a special ringtone for Brenna''s calls.


    The sugary recording echoed. "Honey, do you miss me? I miss you so much..."


    The Mitchell Group''s strict meeting protocol dictated that phones be silenced-no calls or messages allowed.


    Every executive in the room heard the ringtone. Stifled smiles spread as incredulous eyes turned toward Ethan.


    Their ice-cold CEO had such a ringtone? This revtion had them silently reassessing their leader with amused


    nces.


    Ethan himself was also shocked. Brenna had never taken the initiative to call him since he had set this ringtone


    months ago.


    Recently, she had not reached out to him, and he had forgotten about this ringtone.


    Yet here it was-at the very moment his professionalism was on disy. man''s lips curled, not in


    embarrassment, but in quiet joy.


    Documents forgotten, he answered the call.


    "Hello, Brenna."


    The warmth in his voice shocked his team.


    Executives exchanged stunned looks upon seeing Ethan''s gentle smile. Could


    their human cier actually melt?


    Every ear strained to catch a word from the phone, but not a syble was decipherable.


    "Wait there. I''m on my way," Ethan said.


    Hanging up, he nced at his watch. It was half past eleven in the morning. "Morning session adjourned. We''ll


    reconvene at 13:30."


    He then strode out without another word.


    The executives erupted in a frenzy.


    "That was definitely a woman on the other end of the line!"


    "Our boss has a girlfriend!"


    "Who could stand his icy demeanor?"


    "I heard a rumor. His girlfriend is the daughter of the Harper family..."


    "Details! Spill them now!"


    In the lobby.


    As Brenna put her phone away, two guards approached, having purposefully waited for her "fake call" to wrap


    1. up.


    These young guards showed no respect for Brenna, their expressions dripping with disdain.


    "Nice performance," one of the guards sneered first. "Dialing random numbers and pretending it''s Mr. Mitchell? Who''d buy that?"


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    Chapter 238 His Ringtone


    The second guard stepped ufortably close to Brenna. "We see your type all the time. I''ve witnessed worse There was a girl camped out by Mr. Mitchell''s parking spot, stalking his schedule. She was pretty enough and thought her looks could win him over. You know what happened? We kicked her out. We won''t be gentle with shameless gold diggers like that."


    He impatiently gestured toward the exit, delivering an ultimatum. "If you don''t want to be forced out, I suggest you leave now."


    Mia said to Brenna with feigned concern, "A dropout like you? You''re not even fit


    to polish Mr. Mitchell''s shoes. No offense, but that''s just the way it is. I just want you to face the reality."

 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 239

    Chapter 239 You''d Better


    Leave Now


    Brenna delivered two swift kicks, sending the guards tumbling across the polished marble. She used her full strength without hesitation.


    Their bodies slid across the floor, ending with heavy thuds.


    Stunned, the guards could hardly believe what had just happened; they hadn''t anticipated such ferocity from someone so seemingly delicate. Despite their professional training, they struggled to ept how effortlessly Brenna had overpowered them. Grimacing, they got to their feet and prepared to beat her up.


    One guard managed a strainedpliment through gritted teeth. "Impressive," he said, touching his aching side. "You''re the first to knock us both down, but don''t think you can do it again."


    Meanwhile, at the front desk, a worried receptionist quickly alerted security. "We need immediate assistance in the lobby-someone is causing trouble here!"


    Brenna stood unmoving, her cold gaze halting the approaching, arrogant guards in their tracks.


    The guards activated their electric batons, one menacingly saying, "Consider this your final chance to walk away on your own. It''s going to hurt a lot if you don''t leave now."


    From a distance, Mia observed the scene. She believed Brenna was asking for trouble here. Considering that Brenna used to be her ssmate, she spoke up. "Brenna, stop this madness. These guys are former military. You''re going to get hurt. You''d better leave now."


    Yet Mia''s eyes revealed her deeper desire: she secretly hoped the guards would teach Brenna a hard lesson, thinking that Brenna was too arrogant.


    Suddenly, the elevator chimed, signaling Ethan''s arrival. He noticed the scene in the lobby, his eyes turning cold.


    At that moment, the guardsunched a coordinated attack on Brenna-one aiming high, the other low.


    Seeing this, Ethan reacted with blinding speed, grabbing each guard by the cor and sending them flying.


    The impact was even more severe this time, leaving the guards whirling from the pain.


    The receptionists watched in shock, realizing that they had misjudged the situation earlier.


    Ethan rushed to Brenna, his concern evident as he gently checked her for injuries. "Are you alright?" he asked tenderly.


    Brenna nodded. She then turned towards the injured guards and said, "Should I call an ambnce for you guys?"


    Caught off guard by Ethan''s warm attitude toward Brenna, the guards were too bewildered to respond


    Ethan''s tone grew cold as he said to them sharply, "Didn''t you hear her? Answer her."


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    Chapter 249 Yourd Reiter i save How


    The guards quickly regained theirposure, awkwardly rising from the floor while hiding their difort One of them quickly said, "Ho need for that, we''re fine. We just didn''t realize who you were earlier. Our apologies for the misunderstanding


    They were still confused about Brenna''s connection with Ethan, sensing it ose significant


    They knew their only recourse now was to acknowledge their mistake.


    "We''re terribly sorry. Please ept our apologies," they said to Brenna Brenna dismissed them with a wave of her hand. "It''s alright. Just make sure to assess the situation thoroughly before acting next time."


    The guards shared looks of relief and said, "Absolutely! We''ll handle every situation more carefully from now on." Ethan protectively wrapped his arm around Brenna''s waist as they moved toward the elevator Meanwhile, Mia turned pale, murmuring to her colleagues in a low voice, "Could she be Mr. Mitchell''s lover?" The male receptionist shook his head subtly, ¡°Hard to say, but let''s tread carefully around all female visitors from now on. They might all have connections we aren''t aware of."


    Once inside the private elevator, Ethan noticed the lunchbox Brenna was holding "What''s the asion for your visit today?" he asked.


    With a smile, Brenna replied, "I brought lunch to surprise you, but ended up getting stopped at the reception." Ethan felt his heart flutter. Brenna had not onlye to visit him but had also prepared lunch as a surprise. Ethan said, "I''m going to move those receptionists and guards to different posts. I will let people who can make better decisions have their jobs."


    Brenna chuckled softly. "Well, they''ll definitely remember me now. But new staff might not recognize me." Ethan said decisively, "They were disrespectful to you. I''ll be docking their bonuses this month."


    When Ethan and Brenna stepped out of the elevator, the secretaries in the executive area all rose, curiosity evident on their faces.


    A few of the secretaries appeared heartbroken, whispering among themselves,


    "It''s over-our dream man has been snatched."


    One male employeemented, "Even if you stay here forever, Mr. Mitchell wouldn''t marry you. Just drop the ''dream man'' fantasy."


    "Enough," muttered one secretary as she watched Brenna disappear into Ethan''s office. She then returned to her desk, her gaze fixed emptily on herputer


    screen.

 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 240

    Chapter 240 I Want Something Even More...


    Ethan''s office, located on the ny-ninth floor of the Mitchell Group, featuredrge windows that stretched from floor to ceiling, offering an expansive view of Shirie. During long, demanding workdays, the skyline provided a much-needed breath of fresh air, while at night, the sparkling lights brought a sense of calm.


    The office was designed with transparent ss walls on two sides, offering an unobstructed view that invited endless enjoyment of the scenery.


    Brenna, taking in the scene, saying, "This office is truly stunning."


    Ethan approached her at the window, suggesting, "You can move your staff here and work in my office if you want."


    A gentle smile yed on Brenna''s lips. "I already oversee more than 70 people across my two studios. I just took a glimpse at the secretarial area; it''s crowded. With so many employees here, I''d only add to the congestion."


    Ethan nodded in understanding before responding, "We manage two hundred subsidiaries worldwide, which trantes into a mountain of paperwork. That''s why there are so many employees here."


    While they were eating, Ethan''s mobile phone rang. A nce at the caller ID caused his brow to furrow. He then stepped aside to the window to take the call.


    As Brenna ate leisurely, she couldn''t help but think that personal calls to Ethan usually indicated important


    matters.


    Still, she held back her curiosity and didn''t question Ethan about the caller''s identity when he ended the call.


    But Ethan took the initiative to exin, "That was Jade''s father. He''s offering arge sum for her safe return."


    He then let out a coldugh. "Last month, the Ward family intercepted my shipment at Norview. Our talks broke down, and then, they sent assassins after me. Now, with Jade caught up in trouble, they have the audacity to ask for favors from me?"


    A serious expression appeared on Brenna''s face. "Keep your distance from the Ward family. Their lies have no


    limits. It''s widely known that they''ll abandon anyone when they''re in danger. Jade must have something


    valuable or a dark secret for them to even think about saving her."


    Ethan knew all too well of the Ward family''s ruthless chase for influence and profit. He looked intently at


    Brenna. "You''re familiar with the Ward family?"


    "Yes," Brenna replied, her eyes cold. "I have crossed paths with them in the past. Their leader, Edward Ward, lost an arm, I''m the one who made the prosthetic he uses."


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    Ethan remembered seeing Edward''s prosthetic arm, its movements so life-like that at first nce, it was indistinguishable from a real limb.


    The prosthetic arm seemed like a remarkable replica of a human limb, but hidden within it was a deadly array of weapons. Daggers, firearms, poison darts,sers, and electrified currents were all embedded in the fingers. Anyone who dared to harm Edward would be killed by it.


    The arm''s most impressive feature was its intent-recognition system, which could detect hostile intentions, alert its user, and trigger countermeasures through neural signals. This piece of cybeic engineering was truly groundbreaking


    Ethan was taken aback to learn that Brenna was the mind behind this formidable device.


    "You''re the creator of that?" His voice wavered as memories of their harrowing encounter at Norview, where the arm had almost imed his life, flooded back.


    He then asked impulsively, "Are there any weaknesses?"


    Silence settled in the room. Seeing Ethan show such rare concern, Brenna couldn''t help butugh.


    "Of course," she said, her smile turning into a mischievous grin. "Do you think I''d give Edward an unstoppable weapon?"


    Ethan''s eyes gleamed. "I want something even more powerful.¡±


    Nodding thoughtfully, Brenna replied, "Braeden has been requesting abat support system for special forces


    soldiers. I was considering integrating some of the prosthetic''s features. But your request has just sparked a


    superior idea. You''ll get to test the prototype once it''s ready."


    At the first light of dawn, the Harper family headed out toward Luther''s estate for the weekend.


    Even Ableson''s family was going there, making it a final gathering before Lennon''s semestermenced.


    By nine in the morning, the family vehicles had taken over the manor''s cobblestone courtyard.


    In the gazebo, Rosie was spending time with Luther and Tessa.


    Her words, sweet and engaging, drew smiles from the elders.


    ¡°Dad! Mom! Brenna!¡± Rosie beamed, seeing them arrive. ¡°You are finally here. I''ve missed you so much!"


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 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 241

    Chapter 241 Putting On An


    Act


    Rosie sat between Luther and Tessa, radiating practiced innocence as she greeted each family member with grace. To most, she appeared the same well- mannered youngdy they had always known.


    Only Brenna saw through the performance. She remembered Rosie sneering at the staff with thinly veiled contempt. Not only that, but she also remembered Rosie''s ruthless, underhanded schemes to win Ethan over.


    Now, the same schemer posed as a virtuous, graceful woman.


    Brenna took her seat with a faint smile and greeted her grandparents.


    Luther, ever observant, had long noted Brenna''s quiet, restrained nature. Her demeanor was different from Rosie''s and Audrey''s clingy disys of affection. Even a simple greeting from her was a wee surprise.


    What really piqued his interest was the news surrounding Brenna. He had learned she had military ties and formidable capabilities. In his mind, this distant granddaughter might outshine even his grandsons, probably bing the Harper Group''s future leader.


    If only Brenna would soften that steely exterior and show a little more warmth toward the family, she would be the perfect heiress,


    Tessa reached over and sped her hand, eyes tender. "Is Ethan here?" she asked softly,forted by the thought that this often-overlooked granddaughter had finally found someone worthy.


    "Not yet. He''s been busytely," Brenna replied with a small smile, making an effort to soften her demeanor. "He''ll be here around noon."


    "Wonderful! Now that you''re together, spend more time with him." Tessa picked up a small bunch of grapes and offered them to Brenna. "Try these. They''re from our vineyard."


    "Thank you." Brenna took one and tasted it. She was then surprised by the great taste.


    "It tastes good, right? Take a few crates home. Our greenhouses have five grape varieties, heirloom tomatoes,


    even fresh corn." Tessa continued to offer Brenna fruits from the vineyard. Her genuine care for her touched


    Brenna more than she cared to admit.


    Brenna had braced herself for criticism from her grandparents. She had been certain Rosie had spent her


    recovery time badmouthing her to her grandparents.


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    Chapter 241 Putting On An Act


    But ber grandparents were treating her well now.


    Had Rosie notined about her to her grandparents? Or had she simply failed to sway them?


    Across the room, Brenna watched Rosie put on an act, looking well-behaved in front of Shepard and Giselle.


    Despite her injury, Rosie wheeled herself over to them and hand-fed them fruit with dramatic affection. The same couple who had once expelled her from their home now epted the act without protest and yed their parts because of the elders'' watchful eyes. There wasn''t a flicker of dislike in their faces.


    To anyone watching, the three looked like a happy family.


    Rosie locked eyes with Brenna, seemingly challenging her to react or get upset. However, Brenna remainedposed, her expression unreadable. She quickly turned her attention back to Luther and Tessa with practiced ease.


    "These military connections of yours... Are you still working with them?" Luther curiously asked.


    "Yes," Brenna answered. "But I can''t say more. It''s ssified. I''m sorry, Grandpa.¡±


    "You''re doing the right thing." Luther said firmly, approval lighting his face. "Service to the countryes before my curiosity. Knowing you''re contributing to something greater makes me proud."


    His gaze then shifted toward Ernst and Lennon. "Brenna is aplishing great things. You two need to catch up."


    To Luther, national contribution mattered far more than doing business and making money.


    Eyes bright, he continued praising Brenna. Then, with a wave, he instructed the servants to bring out the wine for a proper toast to his exceptional granddaughter.


    Just then, Brenna caught the murderous glint behind Rosie''s eyes.


    Rosie seethed in silence. All her subtle hints about getting kicked out by Brenna had gone nowhere. She had hoped Luther would stand up for her and let her return home.


    But Luther didn''t scold Brenna. He even praised her.


    Rosie was filled with resentment but said nothing.


    She knew that despite his age, Luther was perceptive.


    Any direct maniption would backfire, as he would see right through it. That was


    why she hadn''t pushed harder.


    Her only move now was to double down on the dutiful daughter act by pleasing Giselle and Shepard, hoping it might stir Luther''s emotions and make him let here back.


    Just then, Audrey spoke up cheerfully. "Grandma, let me show Brenna the orchards! It''s her first time being here."


    "Of course," Tessa said warmly. "Pick as much as you like. The kitchen knows how to handle everything."


    Upon hearing this, Lennon trailed behind them. "I will go with them. Might as well stock up before I leave for Norview."


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 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 242

    Chapter 242 Luther''s Scolding


    Luther''s gaze drifted over Ernst, Lennon, and Dalton, each glued to their phones. "Join the others. Help Brenna gather produce."


    The three exchanged looks. Their nces said everything. This was Luther''s tactful dismissal.


    None of them argued. They rose and left without a word.


    Luther then turned to Rosie. "That stewed chicken you made yesterday was excellent. Please go and make more for everyone."


    Rosie''s heart leapt in joy. Luther was going to have a private conversation with his sons. He would probably speak up for her.


    With a carefullyposed expression, she nodded and wheeled herself toward the kitchen.


    After leaving, Lennon muttered to Dalton and Ernst, "Grandpa''s having a family meeting with his sons."


    Dalton said, "Dad and Uncle Ableson will be scolded."


    Ernst said nothing. He knew well of Luther''s sharp scolding.


    The moment the grandchildren were out of earshot, Luther''s expression darkened like a storm.


    Shepard and Ableson remained silent. They had endured Luther''s scolding since they were boys. Marriage and fatherhood hadn''t changed that. Now, even though they had children of their own, Luther never hesitated to scold them.


    At least he spared them the embarrassment in front of their kids, asking the kids to leave before doing it.


    "Shepard," Luther began, his voice sharp. "Exin Rosie''s eviction. That child grew up without parents. I remember your promise, word for word. You swore to treat her as your own. What happened to that? You kicked her out when your own daughter returned. That is outrageous!"


    Luther''s sharp re was followed by a flush of crimson creeping up his neck. It was a signal his every son and daughter-inw hade to dread.


    Thest time his anger had reached this level, he had copsed within ten minutes from a hypertensive crisis and spent a week in the hospital.


    The memory still haunted the entire family.


    Since then, everyone in the Harper household had learned to tread carefully around Luther.


    Shepard and Ableson exchanged a tense nce. They were all worried about Luther''s health.


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    Chapter 242 Luther''s Scolding


    Shepard had expected the scolding from Luther. And he knew he couldn''t make Luther angry, considering his fragile health condition.


    "Dad," Shepard said cautiously, "let me exin.¡±


    Luther let out a low grunt, a sound that granted limited permission Shepard''s respectful tone had cooled the fire in him just enough. "Talk."


    Shepard''s jaw tightened. Rosie''s calcted appeal to Luther revealed a level of political acumen that was unnerving for someone her age. She knew exactly who to turn to to get back to the Harper family, and worse,


    it had worked.


    Whatever sympathy he had left for Rosie vanished.


    Still, with Luther stepping in, her return was no longer a matter of debate. It was inevitable.


    He had already made peace with that.


    "Brenna and Rosie had a falling out. It should''ve been nothing more than typical friction between siblings," Shepard began carefully. "But Rosie crossed a line. She hired a gang, Jay''s group, to harm Brenna. Even now, I shudder thinking about it. Dozens of men surrounded Brenna. They were out for blood. The only reason things didn''t end in disaster was because of Brenna''sbat training. If she hadn''t been skilled at fighting and driven them away, she might have been harmed. Can you really me me for reacting the way I did?"


    Luther had been told a very different story. All he knew was that Brenna had allegedly tampered with Rosie''s car twice, leading to her injuries. And that Brenna had driven Rosie out.


    Rosie had not told him what she had done.


    "This can''t be true. Rosie isn''t that malicious!" Luther insisted, his voice rising.


    Ableson stepped in. "This is indeed true. Jay confessed under interrogation. Rosie funded the attack. It''s all on record."


    Luther''s expression twisted with frustration. "And you kicked Rosie out for that? Conflicts between young people call for guidance, not punishment! Rosie isn''t like Brenna. Brenna has parents and brothers. But Rosie? She has no one. When she makes a mistake, she needs correction, not exile. As elders, you crossed a line. And you even took away her shares! That was just too much!"


    Shepard stood there, unable to express his indifference toward Rosie. He turned to Ableson in silent plea. A lifetime of brotherhood made words unnecessary. Ableson understood Shepard in an instant. Ableson stepped forward, saying, ¡°Dad, Brenna and Rosie can''t live together. Rosie''s fixation on Ethan has gone on for years. But he has only ever seen her as a sister. With Brenna''s engagement to Ethan approaching, keeping her and Rosie under the same roof will only lead to more conflict. Let Rosie live with me. I''ll look after her myself."


    Luther finally gave a nod. "Very well. But remember this: Rosie has been through enough. I''ve offered her somepensation to make it up to her. As adults, you should care for her, not cast her aside."


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 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 243

    Chapter 243 Rosie Returning Home


    Ableson and Shepard knew they had no say in this. In this family, Luther''s word was final.


    As Shepard turned, he caught the disapproval etched on Giselle''s face. It was clear she was displeased with the idea of Rosieing back.


    With no choice, Shepard reached under the table and gently patted her leg in silentfort.


    Luther continued, his voice rising as he scolded both sons and their wives. Tessa asionally chimed in, echoing his grievances. She repeated how poorly they had treated Rosie, an orphan with no one to speak for


    her.


    By the time Brenna and the others returned an hourter, arms full with baskets of fresh produce, the elders had already wrapped up the conversation.


    The younger generation scanned their parents'' grim expressions. They were curious about what had happened, but none dared to ask. They exchanged quiet, knowing nces.


    They had already talked about the matter while picking fruits and vegetables earlier. Despite being young, they were smart enough to recognize Luther''s move for what it was-sending them away to have a private conversation with their parents.


    After a brief discussion, the younger generation had unanimously agreed that today''s family meeting was about


    Rosie.


    At Luther''s signal, the butler stepped away to fetch Rosie from the kitchen, where she had been diligently preparing the meal.


    Rosie soon appeared, wearing a serene, practiced smile. She looked gentle and unassuming.


    "Grandpa, Grandma, I made enough dishes for everyone." She stood dutifully beside Luther, her sweet smile never faltering.


    Brenna and the other younger members watched her. None of them was fooled. They knew Rosie had spent the past days feeding quiet grievances to their grandparents, most of them likely about Brenna.


    At this moment, Brenna met Rosie''s gaze without flinching, her expression cool and steady. She saw straight through her performance. Behind the sweetness was the same ruthless schemer, now ying the part of the perfect, obedient granddaughter.


    d you


    Luther sped Rosie''s hand and, with a voice heavy with resolve, said, "Rosie, your parents passed when you were just a baby. You''ve had to fend for yourself since then, and casting you out now is wrong. I''ve already spoken with Shepard and Ableson. From now on, you''ll live with Ableson''s family. No one will dare away again. With us protecting you, you won''t be mistreated again."


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    Chapter 743 Rople Returning Home


    Pook''s gaze flickered to Shepard and Giselle, her shock evident. She couldn''t believe they had refused to take her back. She was going to live with Ableson


    This wasn''t what she wanted Living there meant fewer chances to cross paths with Ethan.


    Ethan always went to Shepard''s house to see Brenna. He had never once stepped into Ableson''s ce. How was she supposed to win him back if she lived with Ableson?


    Rosie''s eyes drifted to Ableson''s prosthetic leg. After a moment''s pause, she said, "Grandpa, Uncle Ableson is not in good health, and Aunt Jillian is already busy looking after him. I don''t want to add to their burden. I think it''s best if I stay at Uncle Shepard''s ce."


    Ableson exchanged a look with Jillian, confused by Rosie''s reasoning "How would you be a burden? The servants will handle everything, Jillian and I wouldn''t need to lift a finger. It''s no trouble at all."


    When Rosie heard this, she said, "I just don''t want to impose on you, Uncle Ableson."


    Everyone around them held back a scoff. So she''d rather impose on Shepard instead?


    With eyes glistening with tears, Rosie clung to Luther''s hand. "Grandpa, Grandma, I believe Shepard and Giselle will always be my parents. Please let me stay with them. I promise I won''t argue with Brenna again. I''ll give in to her every time from now on. She has been through so much. It''s only natural she feels jealous because of me."


    Luther''s voice shook with fury, "Look at how selfless she is. And yet you all went against her before. You should all be ashamed of yourselves!"


    Tessa nodded. "If she wants to stay at the Shepard''s home, let her."


    Luther''s icy stare swept through everyone. "Any objections?"


    Silence followed.


    Rosie reveled in her victory. Shepard and Giselle''s reluctance to let her live with them was clear as day.


    She knew they must have said to Luther that they were unwilling to take her back.


    She thought Shepard''s so-called affection toward her over the years had always been a lie.


    Now, she would go live with them to upset them. She would also take away all their shares, leaving them with nothing


    Then no one would dare mess with her again.


    With unshakable finality, Luther dered, "Rosie will return to Shepard''s ce today. No one will drive her out


    again.


    His razor-sharp gaze swept past Brenna. He didn''t meet her eyes, but the warning in his eyes was evident.

 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 244

    Chapter 244 This Is How She Shows Gratitude To...


    Rosie shed Brenna a smile, dripping with fake sweetness. "Brenna, you wouldn''t have a problem with meing back home, would you?"


    Since the elders had spoken on that, how could Brenna argue with it?


    A quick nce from Brenna captured Shepard''s and Giselle''s reactions-they were both upset, especially Giselle, her lips pursed tightly in silent disapproval.


    Brenna answered, her voice smooth and polished like finecquer, "Why would I have any objections? After all, you''ve been living there for two decades. We''re practically sisters, aren''t we?"


    Rosie blinked, caught off guard by this. She had expected a fierce refusal from Brenna, a dramatic sh that would conclude with Brenna''s quiet surrender under Luther''s scolding. But instead, Brenna''s calm eptance left her feeling shocked.


    "You are Mom and Dad''s biological daughter; I am merely their niece. Rest assured, I am well aware of my ce and have no intentions topete for their affection." Rosie''s words held an unspoken weight, a silent plea for recognition of her exclusion by the rightful daughter.


    The others, however, saw through Rosie''s act. Her earlierints to the grandparents had exposed her deceit, and only the presence of Luther and Tessa kept them from speaking out.


    No one dared provoke Luther''s anger, especially not over a drama Rosie had carefully crafted.


    Their gazes toward Brenna were filled with sympathy, knowing she had to endure living day by day with such a toxic person like Rosie.


    Brenna, fully aware of the traps in Rosie''s words and the deliberate tone designed to provoke, chose to step away from the maniptive game. She also refused to tter Luther.


    She was not a person who would do something like that.


    The family dynamics were unmistakable to Brenna. Since Luther wanted Rosie to go back and pressured her parents for that, he clearly cared about Rosie a lot. It was evident to Brenna that she was not the most important person to Luther.


    That was perfectly fine with Brenna. She had never longed for Luther and Tessa''s affection, especially since there was no genuine emotional connection between them.


    "d you think that," Brenna responded, her voice chilling


    She expressed her disdain without holding back. Standing firm, she saw no point


    in sugarcoating the truth. Others'' opinions were not important to her.


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    Rosie stole a nce at Luther''s stormy face and said, "Brenna is right-daughters doe before seres it has always been me who crossed the line."


    Just as Luther was about to scold Brenna, Dalton stepped in, saying, "How could you say something like that? Brenna has epted your return, Rosie."


    Lennon lost his temper. "That''s enough of the sneaky remarks," he said to Rosie


    Tears began to form in Rosie''s eyes. "I''m genuinely thankful to be weed back, yet I can''t shake the Sear that Brenna might be displeased with my return."


    She caught Lennon''s frown. The whole family seemed to be on Brenna''s side. A wave of sharp disbold wakes


    over her.


    How had thingse to this?


    A pang of genuine sorrow twisted her heart as she faced the cousins she had grown up with, her expression turning sad.


    Then, the realization hit her-their betrayal had one cause. With her parents gone, there was no one left to


    defend her.


    Meanwhile, Brenna still had her parents despite everything that had happened.


    At that moment, a wave of intense hatred for the Harper family, who had failed her, surged within Rosie.


    They were traitors, each and every one of them!


    "I didn''t mean to upset you, Lennon," Rosie said, her fingers nervously pulling at her sweater. "It''s just... I''m scared that Brenna holds a grudge against me." Brenna could see through her act. "That''s absurd. I wee you toe back.* She strengthened her determination-if Rosie tried to stir up trouble again, no elder''s intervention would make her hold back in letting Rosie face the


    consequences.


    Audrey, visibly disgusted by Rosie''s maniptive tactics towards the whole family, rattled her fruit basket and said to Brenna, "Brenna, would you mind helping with the sd? These grapes need washing."


    Brenna nodded. Carrying their baskets, Brenna and Audrey went to the kitchen, apanied by a few servants.


    Ernst looked at Rosie, his eyes filled with anger. The person he had grown up with had turned into this..... schemer.


    Comining to Grandpa like a snitch? Truly pathetic.


    "Ethan will arrive any minute," Ernst said. "I''m going to get the wine and barbecue fixings ready."


    Lennon and Dalton tagged along.


    ¡°I''ve known Rosie all these years,¡± Lennon said. ¡°Never realized her capacity for deceit. How could she run to Grandpa andin after being justly expelled?"


    "Do you remember how much you spoiled her?" Dalton asked. "Look at what she''s turned into. D expressions on Dad''s and Uncle''s faces earlier? They must have been scolded by Grandpa.*


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    Ernst responded, his voice heavy with disappointment, "Yes, I saw it. Rosie overstepped first, which led to her exile by Mom and Dad. And yet, she pulled Grandpa into the matter and forced Mom and Dad to take her back


    After a pause, he continued, "After Mom and Dad raised her, for two decades, this


    is how she shows her gratitude to them?"


    A heavy silence settled in the air. In their younger years, living under the same


    roof, they had had their disagreements and arguments, but they had never once turned against their own family


    Rosie''s behavior earlier, scheming against her own family, left them feeling disgusted by her

 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 245

    Chapter 245 Being Ignored


    As noon approached, Ethan''s sleek car glided to a halt outside the Harper estate. d in his signature tailored ck suit with artfully tousled hair, Ethan cut a striking figure, embodying effortless style with a touch of sophistication.


    To everyone''s astonishment, Ethan emerged with an uncharacteristic smile, his usual icy demeanor visibly softened. The tension that typically coiled around his broad shoulders had evaporated.


    Rosie''s eyes were glued to Ethan. Months had slipped by since she hadst seen him, and now here he was, beaming-surely that smile was meant for her. Her heart fluttered with hope.


    "Ethan!" she called out eagerly, maneuvering her wheelchair toward him with unseemly haste.


    Brenna set her sd fork down with deliberate calm. She had intended to greet Ethan, but Rosie''s desperate interception made her pause. Watching the scene with detached amusement, she waited for Rosie to be ignored by Ethan.


    Ethan, buoyed by the significance of being included in a Harper family gathering, even offered Rosie a rare courtesy. "How''s your recoverying along?" he asked.


    The words were polite, yet his gaze never strayed from Brenna. The warmth in his eyes as he looked at her could have melted ciers, his expression tender with affection.


    Without waiting for a response from Rosie, he strode past her as if she were merely part of thendscaping,


    making a beeline for Brenna.


    Rosie''s face crumpled. The brutal dismissal cut deeper than any physical pain from her injuries. Even Ethan''s retreating figure seemed to reject her, his entire being focused solely on Brenna.


    Hot tears pricked at the corners of her eyes.


    The Harper siblings exchanged knowing nces. They felt no sympathy for Rosie, and Audrey even believed Rosie had brought the humiliation upon herself.


    Ethan greeted the elders with uncharacteristic deference, the normally aloof tycoon exhibiting a surprisingly gentle demeanor.


    Neville followed him, handing the gifts Ethan had brought to the staff.


    After exchanging pleasantries with the Harper siblings, Ethan finally reached Brenna. From his jacket pocket, he produced a single perfect rose. "For you," he said softly.


    Brenna epted it, her smile finally reaching her eyes. "Thank you."


    She brought the bloom to her nose, inhaling its fragrance with visible delight.


    Determined to salvage her pride, Rosie maneuvered closer. The sight of that rose-a symbol of affection-in Brenna''s hands sent jealousy churning through her veins. She wanted one from Ethan, too.


    20:38


    Suppressing her envy and frustration, she forced a brittle smile. "I made your favorite soup," she told Ethan, pretending her heart wasn''t shattering. "You have to try some.


    Ethan offered a nomittal nod, the bare minimum of courtesy required in the presence of the Harper family.


    Luther watched the exchange with a growing sense of sympathy toward Rosie. Rosie''s desperate affection was as clear as day. Meanwhile, Brenna, who had just returned to the family, had somehow enchanted everyone around her. The girl possessed an uncanny ability to excel in every social interaction.


    Brenna''s social finesse was remarkable for someone so reserved.


    But Rosie... She was different. Luther felt for her.


    In this household, Luther believed only he truly had Rosie''s best interests at heart.


    Still, he was no overbearing patriarch in this family. While he wouldn''t meddle in matters of the heart, witnessing Rosie''s suffering pained him deeply.


    An idea took root in his mind-when the moment was right, he would introduce Rosie to suitable young gentlemen from reputable families.


    "Every ingredient for today''s meales straight from the garden. I picked them myself," Rosie dered, sliding a porcin dish toward Ethan. "Organic produce. You should try some."


    Rosie had cleverly positioned herself beside Ethan during the meal.


    "This is your favorite dish," she murmured, invoking childhood memories like a finely honed weapon. "You Cused to love it during summer breaks."


    With practiced finesse, she ced some food onto Ethan''s te with her own fork, her smile brimming with


    hope.


    Ethan felt displeased. Without a moment''s hesitation, he moved the food to his discard te. "There''s no need for you to do this. I am Brenna''s boyfriend, and it would be inappropriate for me to ept such intimate gestures from other women. I''m sorry, Rosie."


    Rosie felt tears welling up in her eyes. "I meant nothing by it!" The protest burst forth from her throat. "You''ve always been like family-like a brother to me. Please don''t misunderstand my gesture."


    Her gaze darted to Brenna. "Surely you can appreciate childhood bonds? You wouldn''t mind, would you?"


    Brenna just shrugged, her demeanor cold. "I don''t care."


    With that, Brenna put some food onto Ethan''s te, casually selecting a cucumber sd in front of her.


    Ethan''s demeanor brightened as he returned the gesture with some pasta, their silentmunication excluding everyone else.


    Ethan and Brenna continued to eat,pletely ignoring Rosie.


    Unable to watch Rosie embarrass herself further, Audrey put some ribs on Rosie''s te.


    Rosie clinched her teeth and said, "Thanks." Her visage, a thundercloud, was reflected in the shining tableware.


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    Chapter 245 Being Ignored


    The humiliation burned fiercely in her. She realized that Ethan was unwilling to be nice to her anymore.


    But she refused to just give up. She had loved Ethan for countless years and had always tried to be please him. Why should Brenna, who had done nothing, receive the love that was rightfully hers?

 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 246

    Chapter 246 Visiting


    Ethan''s Parents


    In the afternoon, Ethan settled into his seat across from Luther for a game of chess.


    With each move, Luther''s experienced hands guided a knight into position, showcasing decades of strategic


    expertise. The game remained evenly matched, with neither the seasoned businessman nor the family patriarch


    able to im the upper hand.


    "While we y, Ethan, reflect on your past with Rosie," Luther said, eyes fixed on the chessboard. "She might


    be headstrong, but deep down, her intentions are pure."


    Luther had arranged the chess match not just for the game, but to engage in private conversation with Ethan.


    Ethan stiffened, unsure if Luther was trying to dig into his decision to not choose Rosie for marriage.


    Understanding Luther''s influential position in both the Harper family and the Harper Group, apany with its power extending throughout the country, Ethan chose his words carefully.


    "Indeed, Rosie is like family to me," Ethan said, moving his queen forward. "She has always been like a sister to


    me."


    Luther''s expression stiffened, and he noticed Ethan''s careful attempt to dodge the true issue. He believed Ethan


    clearly knew what he wanted to ask-Rosie had grown up with him, why didn''t he want to marry her?


    Luther couldn''t grasp why Ethan would want to marry Brenna after only a few meetings, ignoring his years of


    close friendship with Rosie.


    "But you should know that Rosie expects more from your rtionship, Ethan," Luther said. "She grew up believing she''d be your bride, given our families'' agreement. Why haven''t you considered marrying her?"


    Ethan looked at Luther intently. "Rosie has only ever been a sister to me. Despite being aware of the familial agreement, I never embraced the idea of marrying her.


    I view such agreements as outdated relics. Even before I met Brenna, I had resolved not to honor the arrangement. Moreover, my elder brother remains unmarried; he


    is also able to fulfill that familymitment."


    Luther''s response was quiet, almost thoughtful. "You are right."


    Ethan spoke openly, his words honest and direct. "From the moment we first met, I knew Brenna was the one for me. That was when I decided that I would marry her."


    Luther was not the type to cling to outdated traditions to the point of arranging a marriage out of pity for Rosie. He kept an open mind, prioritizing Ethan''s happiness above the arrangement.


    He noticed the nervousness in Ethan''s demeanor andughed lightly. "My main concern is your and Brenna''s happiness. Don''t worry; I''m open-minded and not one to meddle."


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    Relief washed over Ethan. "Your approval means everything to me."


    Later that day, as Ethan prepared to leave, the family staff was busy filling Ethan''s car with boxes of fresh produce from the Harper family''s estate gardens. Luther had insisted on it.


    Ethan nced at the generous boxes of fruits and vegetables, a hint of resignation in his eyes as he wondered


    what to do with it all.


    He had tried to refuse to ept them, but Luther had been persistent.


    Brenna, amused by Ethan''s situation, said, "Maybe your parents and grandparents would enjoy these. It could be seen as a thoughtful, health- conscious gift."


    Ethan''s face brightened at the idea. "That''s an excellent idea. They really value farm-fresh goods."


    After a pause, he added, "Do you have some time toe with me and meet them today?"


    Brenna hesitated, unsure about the sudden n. But before she could voice her objection, Ethan was already guiding her toward the car.


    As Ethan started the car, he dialed his mother, telling her that he and Brenna would be home soon.


    The Mitchell family''srge home was often empty since Ethan''s parents usually stayed at the military base.


    Brenna, searching for a polite excuse, said, "I''m not sure I''ve brought suitable gifts for a visit."


    Ethan gestured towards the car''s trunk. "You are not going there empty-handed. Four crates of fresh produce are a thoughtful gift."


    Brenna furrowed her brows. "Isn''t it a bit improper to bring such a gift?"


    Ethan reassured her, "Consider it a token of your care for their health. You''ve already done so much for my grandfather; his improvement in mobility is all thanks to you. Really, your presence is more valuable than any physical gift."


    Yet, Brenna remained unconvinced. "It seems too rushed to visit without a more thoughtful gift. Besides, these vegetables just seem like things we don''t want. It wouldn''t be right to present such things to the elders."


    At Brenna''s insistence, Ethan drove them to a shopping center. At Ellie''s store, they picked out a navy blue dress and a handbag, which was so new that it hadn''t even been put on disy yet.


    At the militarypound.


    Though Brenna had previously met Ethan''s parents in a professional context at the hospital, she felt anxious about this formal introduction as his girlfriend.


    Thepound was bustling with high-ranking officials, all dressed in uniforms.


    Ethan said to Brenna, "My mother used to perform in the military''s performance troupe. Though she rarely performs now, she still has an eye for elegance. She''ll definitely appreciate the gifts you''ve brought."


    After the car was parked, Brenna got out of the car. Just then, a middle-aged woman in a crisp uniform quickly walked over to her.


    Her military attire and neatly trimmed short hair highlighted her refined, dynamic


    presence.


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    This was Elsa Mitchell, Ethan''s mother


    "Pleased to meet you." Brenna offered a polite greeting


    Then, she noticed a person who looked a lot like Ethan standing behind Elsa and


    her husband. It was Kenny

 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 247

    Chapter 247 I Won''t Let Anyone Mistreat You


    Brenna arrived home to find Giselle waiting in the living room, her expression a mask of forced lightness.


    "Well? How did the meeting with Ethan''s parents go?" Giselle asked.


    "It went great, except that I grinned until my cheeks felt ready to burst," Brenna replied, rubbing her sore


    facial muscles.


    She sensed the thin veneer of anger simmering beneath Giselle''sposed demeanor.


    Giselle let out a heavy sigh. "Rosie''s back. I''m sorry, darling-even in our own home, we''re powerless against your grandfather''s decisions. I know you don''t like her, but I can''t go against your grandfather''s order."


    Giselle''s distress was due to a bitter sh with Shepard, another skirmish over Rosie.


    Shepard saw a chance for redemption. He believed Rosie would change this time, but Giselle only saw betrayal.


    Years spent raising Rosie as her own had only led to this moment, when Rosie plotted deliberately to upset her. Rosie clearly understood that she was not wee here, yet she had still plotted and forced her way back.


    Giselle wanted to find a way to make Luther change his mind about letting Rosie live with them, but Shepard felt sorry for Rosie, wanting to let Rosie stay here from now on.


    Though Brenna felt a difort twisting in her stomach, she didn''t want Giselle to bear the weight of guilt. She gave a dismissive wave. "Don''t worry about it. If Rosie steps out of line, I''ll handle her."


    Giselle wrung her hands, guilt heavy in her chest. How could she face Brenna while she was letting the person who had harmed Brenna live with her? But there was little she could do.


    "Her little schemes won''t work on me," Brenna reassured Giselle. "Dealing with her is a piece of cake for me. In fact, if you don''t like her, I already have a n to get her out of our house."


    She chuckled softly, a mischievous glint lighting her eyes.


    Giselle leaned in closer. "What''s your n?"


    Without missing a beat, Brenna replied, "Get her married."


    Giselle''s face darkened. "Don''t be absurd! Anyone can see she has her sights set on Ethan!"


    This was Giselle''s greatest dread-that Rosie would stop at nothing in her quest to steal Ethan away from Brenna or tear them apart.


    Brenna let out a scoff. "So what? Can she really force him to marry her? Ethan is a catch-wealthy, handsome, and young. It''s only natural that women are throwing themselves at him left and right."


    Chapter 247 1 Won''t Let Anyone Mistreat You


    Giselle finally chuckled, the tension in her shoulders easing "You''ve got a point. Many women want to marry Ethan. Rosie is just one of them, it hardly makes a difference."


    As Brenna and Giselle ascended to the third floor, the heated, exchange between Shepard and Ernst drifted


    through the air.


    Giselle exined, "Your grandfather is adamant that Ernst gain some outside experience for only about a year before he rejoins the Harper Group. He believes Daltoncks the chops for Corporate management, and that the Harper Group can''t move forward without Ernst at the helm. Though he sees your leadership potential, he clings to outdated beliefs that women should be anchored to domestic duties rather than steering the ship of business. At most, he might toss you a few shares to keep youfortable. He is convinced that women can''t managepanies."


    After a pause, she continued, "I suspect he''s worried that if Ernst takes too long toe back, the CEO chair might end up with you. His patriarchal views are evident.*


    Brenna squeezed Giselle''s hand and replied, "My two studios keep me busy already, and they''re thriving. I''ve never wanted to take control of the Harper Group."


    Giselle''s expression hardened. The more sensible Brenna seemed, the more acutely Giselle felt the sting of injustice. "How can you just ept this? Every Harper descendant deserves equal rights topete for the CEO position of the Harper Group, regardless of gender. Why should you settle for mere shares? You are a reserved person, but that doesn''t mean they can push you around. I absolutely reject your grandfather''s outdated notions about session."


    Just then, from the bedroom, Ernst''s voice rose in protest. "Dad, Dalton is managing thepany well. My early efforts at the Harper Group paled inparison to his current work. Given time, he''ll outshine mepletely."


    Shepard''s irritated voice echoed. "Have you forgotten what your grandfather said?"


    Ernst countered firmly, ¡°Dad, sometimes wisdomes from the younger generation. Grandpa''s age has dulled his vision. Must you inherit his shortsightedness? The Harper Group will be aughingstock if we listen to everything my grandfather says. The shareholders won''t hesitate to mock our ipetence."


    He then lowered his voice, and Brenna was unable to hear what he said after that.


    Ernst said, "Dad, haven''t you noticed that Grandpa ns to put Rosie on the board? She''s angling to reim


    Uncle Carsen''s shares."


    Shepard''s silent nod confirmed what Ernst implied. Luther''s lingering guilt over Carsen''s death fueled this irrational favoritism. Otherwise, he wouldn''t be defending Rosie after everything she had done.


    Giselle tightened her grip on Brenna''s hand and said, "After all you''ve been through, I won''t let anyone


    mistreat you."

 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 248

    Chapter 248 She Wants Me Dead


    "Mom, I''ll keep an eye on Rosie." Brenna locked eyes with Giselle, her gaze unwavering. "With my finance background, tracking her assets is easy for me. Don''t worry; financial warfare happens to be my forte."


    Without a word, Ernst strode out of the room, giving Brenna and Giselle a curt nod before making his way up


    the stairs.


    Brenna retreated to her bedroom, her steps measured.


    As she neared her door, Rosie''s door creaked open. Seated in her wheelchair, Rosie red at Brenna, with


    Rachael standing behind her.


    "Just answer me," Rosie said, her voiceced with usation. "Did you tamper with my car?"


    Brenna tilted her head slightly, her icy gaze falling on Rosie. "Did you enjoy the results?" she asked.


    That frigid tone sucked the air from Rosie''s lungs, freezing her smirk in mid- curve. The unspoken truth hung


    thick between them-Brenna had done it.


    Brenna''s cold stare, brimming with the promise of something far worse, sent a shudder rippling through


    Rosie''s body.


    "You..." For a moment, Rosie didn''t know what to say. Fear strangled the rest of her indignation. She had not


    expected this from Brenna.


    Brenna had all but confessed, and yet there wasn''t a trace of guilt or hesitation in her expression, just the glint


    of cold satisfaction.


    The audacity caught Rosie off guard.


    Brenna straightened, her resolve like steel. "Didn''t your hired goonse after me? What''s wrong with me


    fighting back? Were you expecting me to do nothing after you tried to harm me?"


    After a pause, she continued, "What do you think of my countermove? Do you like it? If not, I can do more."


    Her voice was low butced with danger. "Try me again, and I won''t hesitate to kill you."


    The re she shot at Rachael was a silent threat.


    Rachael, who had meant to make things difficult for Brenna, suddenly found herself unable to meet her fierce


    gaze.


    Yet beneath her fear, resentment simmered.


    Brenna quickly walked to her room and shut the door behind her.


    1


    Rachael wheeled Rosie into her room and finally found her tongue. ¡°Brenna admitted it! That arrogant bitch!"


    Rosie snorted in anger, her hands trembling like leaves in a storm. "She nearly got me killedst time. But she feels no guilt over the matter. I can even feel that she wants me dead."


    Concern creased her brow as she turned to Rachael. "Do you think I shouldn''t havee back? What if she


    really does try to kill me?"


    Rachael quaked at the thought-she understood the dark secrets of the wealthy. Taking out a young woman like Rosie would be child''s y for the Harpers.


    A business empire like theirs surely had its share of enemies. There must have been people the Harper family had crossed. Rachael believed the Harpers must have ways to make problems vanish without a trace.


    Yet she was in the dark about their methods.


    hers for to


    "At least the Harpers won''t act openly against you. you need to keep a low profile-don''t provoke


    them further," Rachael suggested.


    Rosie''s fear shed with her resentment. She had schemed to humiliate Brenna and win Ethan back before. But now, Brenna''s lethal re haunted her, making her afraid to make any moves.


    The next morning, Brenna slept well past eleven before asking the chef to pack some food for her.


    She then drove to Ellie''s ce. Patrick answered the door in his pajamas, cookie crumbs dusting his cheeks.


    "Morning! Where''s your mom?" Brenna asked.


    Patrick pouted, pointing toward the bedroom. "She''s still in dreand, telling me to prepare food for myself. Back in Norview, she always let me cook andined that my cooking was giving her malnutrition! But I only know how to make a few simple dishes! I''m just a kid, after all."


    Brenna wasn''t surprised by this. Ellie''s parenting philosophy seemed to be that survival equaled sess.


    "Poor you," Brenna said as she went inside and opened the containers she had brought. "I brought you some real food. I also picked these myself from the countryside yesterday."


    She carefully stored sweet corn, grapes, and cherry tomatoes in the fridge.


    She then told Patrick that the corn only needed to be boiled for fifteen minutes before he could eat it, and that he could eat the grapes and cherry tomatoes after washing them.


    "Thank you!" Patrick eximed, eating the dishes Brenna had brought happily. Brenna soon joined him.


    After a while, Ellie emerged from the bedroom, drawn by the aroma of food, her beige silk dress clinging to her curves. With her hair casually cascading over her shoulders, she looked effortlessly charming. "Why didn''t you wake me? The food smells so good."


    Just then, the doorbell rang. Assuming it was Jayceon again, Ellie groaned, "Jayceon is so annoying, always bothering me on weekends..."


    With a huff, she trudged to the door and opened it, only to be met by the sight of two elderly people and a


    young man.


    "Mom? Dad? Hank?" Ellie stood frozen, disbelief washing over her as she had never expected her family to track


    her down.


    Tori Moore, Ellie''s mother, saw Ellie and instantly pushed past her to enter the house.


    She said, "When did youe back? Why didn''t you tell us? If it weren''t for my friend seeing you at the mall, we wouldn''t even know you''ve struck it rich! Are you hiding your wealth from us? How could you do something like that?"


    Ellie''s father, Leif Moore, and her brother, Hank Moore, also stepped inside, their eyes wide as they took in the spacious and well-decorated apartment.


    Hank''s eyes sparkled with envy. "Ellie! You live in such a nice ce; you must be loaded!"


    Patrick looked up from his te, clearly confused by the sudden influx of strangers. "Mommy, who are they?"


    Noticing Patrick, Tori shrieked, pointing at Patrick. "Whose child is this?"

 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 249

    Chapter 249 Your Mother And I Will Manage The...


    Ellie''s expression darkened at her family''s uninvited arrival. These were her closest blood rtives, yet when she had been pregnant with Jayceon''s child, they had turned their backs on her.


    At that time, Jayceon''s parents refused to let her live with them. She had been forced to return to her own


    home, but her family had only treated her with rejection.


    Her parents and brother had branded her unwed pregnancy as shameful, driving her away with harsh orders,


    telling her never to return.


    During those first grueling years in Norview, there had been no calls from them,


    no financial support. They had let her struggle in a foreignnd, fighting for survival on her own.


    She had convinced herself that her family meant nothing to her. That was why she hadn''t informed them when


    she hade back this time.


    Yet now, they hade to her.


    Years of pent-up bitterness erupted. "What are you doing here?" Ellie demanded, her eyes zing. "You''re not


    wee here."


    Tori snapped, her voice dripping with disdain, ¡°Ungrateful wretch! After all we invested in you, how could you say something like that to us?"


    She then marched toward the table, grabbing Patrick''s arm roughly.


    Brenna had heard Ellie''s stories but had never grasped the full extent of her family''s cruelty. The elders'' greedy sneers confirmed to her that they were not good people at all.


    In one smooth motion, Brenna positioned herself protectively between Patrick and the intruders.


    Patrick watched silently as the strangers appraised his home like inspectors, their eyes roaming with


    entitlement.


    "They are your grandparents," Brenna said to Patrick carefully, her gaze locking onto Tori''s.


    Noticing Brenna''s polished appearance, Tori''s tone shifted. "You must be Ellie''s friend?" she asked politely.


    "Yes. I''m Brenna Harper," Brenna confirmed curtly, maintaining basic politeness despite the tension.


    Tori''s eyes narrowed as they raked over Patrick. Then, she hissed at Ellie, "You kept the bastard? What were you thinking? How will you ever marry someone now?"


    Meanwhile, Leif and Hank wandered through the apartment, visibly impressed. "This apartment will do nicely," Hank announced. "Ang and I will take it after the wedding."


    Leif looked like he owned the ce. "This ce is adequate for newlyweds. With this space, Ang should have no reason to refuse to marry you,"


    Hank began snapping photos of every corner. "I will let Ang see this ce."


    His phone captured Ellie''s private spaces, including her bedroom and bathroom, invading her privacy. Ellie''s anger red as she snatched Hank''s phone from him. "What do you think you''re doing?"


    Tori, in a sh, unleashed a torrent of reprimands. "Stop yelling. We have every blessed right to everything here! You vanished post-graduation, not sending home a dime. Did we nurture you all these years for nothing? After the mountain of money we poured into your education, you have to repay us. Hank is about to get married. Since he and his girlfriend are both working in Shirie, you can give this ce to them. Consider it as a repayment. You should move out quickly."


    Hank justughed, reiming his phone to continue showing off to his girlfriend. "You''re all mistaken," Ellie said, her voice a low growl. "This isn''t my property; it''s my friend''s. You have no right to im this ce as your own."


    The family exchanged incredulous nces, eyes wide as saucers. "Stop lying!" Hank spat, his voiceced with venom. "Everyone knows you''re a famous designer now. You can make tens of millions a year. How could this ce not be yours? You''re just being an ungrateful person for not wanting to give this ce to us. How dare you not repay Mom and Dad after all they''ve done for you?"


    His face contorted, a mask of aggression.


    Tori and Leif settled onto the sofa, a picture of entitlement. Leif dered, "You''ve turned your back on us for years. Now that you''re swimming in money, you should buy us a house, and another for Hank. That''s fair,


    right? And I believe you don''t need so much money as a woman. Once you''re married, your money will be


    someone else''s family''s!"


    Brenna, not wanting to meddle in Ellie''s family affairs, guided Patrick to his room, shielding him from the scene.


    Ellie faced her parents, her gaze unwavering. "I already told you-this ce belongs to my friend, Brenna. You just met her."


    Tori''s eyes narrowed to slits. "Stop trying to fool us. Just tell me if you are rich or not. Aren''t you a famous designer now?"


    "Fine. I''ve earned some money over the years," Ellie admitted.


    Tori''s face underwent a miraculous transformation, a smile as fake as a three- dor bill spread across her lips as she pulled Ellie onto the couch. "That''s my girl. Now, you''ll support us financially. We don''t ask for much. You just need to buy two houses, one for me and your father, one for Hank. And you need to give us some


    money."


    Leif spoke with authority. "Listen here, Ellie. Raising you was no pic, and your college education bled us dry. Here''s the deal-keep twenty thousand for yourself and give the rest of your savings to us. Your mother and I will manage the money for you."


    Ellie, her voice as cold as ice, replied, "That''s not going to happen."


    "Don''t be so ungrateful!" Tori shrieked, pinching Ellie''s arm with force. "We have raised you! You''d rather give


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 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 250

    Chapter 250 You''re Not Going Anywhere.


    Ellie''s irritation boiled over. Her family''s sudden intrusion had caught her off guard. She knew her parents well -they were vain people and only valued their


    son.


    She wanted to get her parents and her brother out of here immediately. She didn''t want them toe back


    ever again.


    But their greedy eyes, like vultures, picked apart the apartment, Hank''s especially,


    He conducted a mental inventory of every fixture, every piece of furniture, clearly wanting to im them as his


    Tori poked Ellie''s ribs, her voice dripping with venom. "Why are you staring at Hank like that? Do you think we''d stoop to taking your things?"


    Hank, havingpleted his tour of the bedrooms, eximed, "Three guest rooms, each a pcepared to our master bedroom! Ang has already agreed to live here with me after the wedding."


    He then turned to Ellie, adopting a mock-solemn tone. "You''ll give me this apartment, right? Consider it a debt repaid to Mom and Dad."


    "I''ve told you already. This ce is not mine. I can''t give it to you," Ellie retorted, her voice sharp as a shard of ss, "I''m renting this ce from a friend."


    Her family members'' faces darkened in an instant. Hank roared, "Liar! The whole vige sings your praises as a money-minting designer! And you im to still live in a rented ce? I don''t believe you!"


    Tori also eximed, "After all our sacrifices for you, you turn your back on us! We ask for a mere apartment, and you refuse us? You''ve left the family for years, and now that you are finally back, you need to repay us! Just tell me how you will repay us!"


    Leif, lowering his voice to a conspiratorial whisper, said to Tori, "Perhaps the bastard''s father owns this ce?"


    Tori''s eyes gleamed with understanding. She nodded before saying to Ellie, "Tell me who is the father of your


    child!"


    Ellie red at them. She didn''t want her family to know Jayceon''s identity.


    If they knew that Patrick''s father was Jayceon, who belonged to one of the four powerful families in Shirie, they would just push her to marry him.


    "Patrick''s father is just an ordinary person," Ellie said.


    Hank sneered, "Nonsense. An ordinary person can''t afford this ce! The rent alone must be over ten thousand


    a month."


    < Chapter 750 Torts Hot Boing/hymes


    &


    Ton''s nails dug into File''s arm, her expression sour. "Cave us has rather four yet the therapy were des you were carrying his baby before, and now, you we still trying to prket them kise to the


    the


    Elle, no longer the umid on in the past, wrenched herest free from Torts gasp, etrode to the door and flung it open "Get out. When i needed you the most, you are A. VINO SAS with me yourselves. Don''t you remember? We have no hond now You need to there the week!


    Lelf and Tori, like stubborn mules, nted themselves on the wide, Wing on and close in odparra Indignation Leif said, "You''ve grown quite the spine, haven''t you? what to bratia goat trip from the line! We''re staying! This is our home now. Every penny we invested in prei, we'' 16V


    Behind the bedroom door, Brenns and Patrick savesdropped on the conversation, Patricz''s small fata denciah, he disliked these three people,


    He said to Brenna, "What if they refuse to leave? 1 don''t like them and don''t want them to stay here


    Brenna observed the escting confrontation, ready to step in if things got out of contro


    Patrick''s eyes, tinged with fury, zed. He raised his small fists and whispered, "Let''s forcefully throw them out! I think I am a good fighter,"


    Just then, a resonant voice sliced through the charged atmosphere.


    "Ellie, aren''t you going to invite me in?" Jayceon leaned against the doorframe, a takeout bag swinging from his fingertips.


    Ellie''s frustration grew, "Why are you here?"


    She attempted to steer him towards the elevator quickly, wanting him to leave.


    But she was toote. Her parents and brother, seeing Jayceon, rushed over. Hank seized Jayceon by the arm. "You''re not going anywhere!"


    Leif jabbed his finger at Jayceon. "You must be the father of that child! You''ve


    dared to show your face, I won''t let you leave just like this."


    Jayceon, with a calm demeanor, dislodged Hank''s grasping hand, his eyes scanning the trio in their ordinary


    attire.


    He soon realized that they were Ellie''s family.


    He smiled politely. "Nice to meet you. I''m Jayceon Russell, Patrick''s father. Let''s


    sit down and talk about everything, shall we?"


    You have unlocked exclu

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    Chapter 251 You''re Making


    This Worse


    The situation had spiraled beyond Ellie''s grasp. Facing any single one of them would have been a formidable task. But all four? That was a tempest she was ill- equipped to weather.


    The four people, however, were positively buoyant. Ellie''s family, their eyes gleaming, immediately took note of Jayceon''s bespoke suit and the glint of his opulent watch.


    Hank''s eyes nearly popped from their sockets as he recognized the limited- edition watch on Jayceon''s wrist. He realized he was clearly rich.


    "Pleasure to meet you!" Hank seized Jayceon''s hand to shake hands with him. "I''m Hank, Ellie''s brother! We''re practically family now!"


    He then proceeded to introduce his parents to Jayceon, his voice dripping with sycophancy.


    Leif and Tori, their senses honed by years of experience, immediately recognized Jayceon''s affluence, a fact evident in his tailored attire and his refined aura.


    They had never, in their wildest dreams, imagined their "disgraceful" daughter would ensnare someone of such staggering wealth.


    But soon, a revtion dawned on them. Ellie''s ndestine pregnancy, her unwavering secrecy about the father...


    She must have been his mistress, the child illegitimate.


    However, as their eyes swept across the luxurious apartment, they quickly forgot about everything else.


    Leif and Tori quickly ushered Jayceon inside, their hospitality evident.


    They led Jayceon to sit on the sofa before asking, "So, what do you do for a


    living? What is your family background? When are you and my daughter tying the knot?"


    Jayceon, his eyes flicking towards Ellie, sensed her anger. He then turned back to Tori and Leif, finding the air


    thick with tension.


    "We are not getting married," Ellie stated.


    "I am about to propose to Ellie soon," Jayceon said.


    They spoke at the same time, their conflicting pronouncements hanging in the air.


    Tori''s eyes narrowed, her gaze shrewd. She believed Ellie was ying a dangerous game, feigning disinterest to make Jayceon give her more money. Jayceon must have refused that, hence Ellie''s anger toward him.


    Tori adopted a stern demeanor, her voiceced with a hint of menace. ¡°Listen here, Jay..."


    Jayceon quickly said, "It''s Jayceon."


    Special bonus over 40%


    16:33


    Chapter 251 You''re Making This Worse


    "Jayceon," Tori said. "You do want to marry Ellie, do you not?"


    Jayceon was in a good mood, thinking that Ellie''s parents were far easier to deal with than Ellie


    "Of course,¡± he replied, nodding


    Tori, sensing victory, felt her demands were within reach. "This apartment is yours, correct?" she asked.


    Jayceon shook his head, his expression calm. "No, this apartment belongs to Ellie''s friend. However, I have already secured a house, measuring two thousand


    square meters, for Ellie and Patrick. They can move in at


    their leisure. Furthermore, the house is already in Ellie''s name."


    Tori, Leif, and Hank were ted upon hearing that.


    Such arge house was more than they could ever afford in a lifetime!


    Exchanging greedy nces with her husband, Tori cleared her throat, her voice a carefully calibrated mix of entitlement and supplication. "That''s good. However, raising Ellie cost us a great deal. We are currently renting in Shirie, and our son requires a house for his impending marriage."


    The implication, as clear as day, hung in the air. Jayceon quickly realized they were vain and greedy people, but he didn''t care. After all, a few properties were nothing to him.


    "I will get you two a house. I''ll also give Hank a house as a wedding gift," he said.


    Grins stretched across the Moore family members'' faces, mirroring the ecstatic joy of lottery winners.


    Leif, his eyes gleaming with undisguised joy, said, "What is your job? When can we meet your parents..."


    He faltered, a flicker of doubt crossing his features. He assumed that Ellie was just Jayceon''s mistress and thought that the proposal of them meeting Jayceon''s parents was a bit inappropriate.


    As Leif hesitated, Ellie, her voice sharp as a shard of ice, said to Jayceon, "Did I consent to this arrangement? Did I even agree to be your wife? You''ve promised them houses already. When they get the houses, they will want money from you, too. Will you give them that as well?"


    Jayceon could see that Ellie didn''t have a good rtionship with her parents, but he was unaware that Ellie had already cut ties with them.


    Jayceon replied, "Shouldn''t I provide these for your parents? They don''t even own a home in Shirie. How can we live in a big house while they rent? People would mock us."


    Ellie, exasperated, shoved him toward the door. "Just leave; you''re making this worse."


    Jayceon refused to leave.


    Tori shoved Ellie aside, her voice sharp. "Have you lost your damn mind? A good man like him is rare! Why would you drive him away?"


    She yanked Jayceon back by the arm. "You still haven''t told us about your family!"


    Ellie saw exactly where this was heading. The moment her parents realized Jayceon came from a wealthy family, they would force her to marry him. She eximed in anger, ¡°Enough! I am not going to marry him. Who gave you the right to decide for me?"


    She then jabbed a finger toward the door. "Jayceon, get out!"


    The raw anger in Ellie''s voice made Jayceon hesitate. One wrong move, and he believed he might never see Patrick again. He quicklyplied. "Fine, I''m leaving. Just don''t be mad at me."


    The Moores could only watch as Jayceon left.


    Ellie then turned back to them, her tone cutting. "He''s just a show-off. Ye he has money, but he can''t afford all those things he said. He was just bragging earlier."

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    Chapter 252 I Will Help You With This


    Hank couldn''t shake off Jayceon''s words, which had left a bad taste in his mouth. Jayceon had said that this ce belonged to Ellie''s friend, which meant he wouldn''t be able to get this ce for his marriage to Ang.


    This couldn''t happen!


    The memory of Jayceon''s luxury watch lingered in Hank''s mind, and he quickly ran after him. He believed Jayceon must be rich.


    If this rich guy had gotten Ellie pregnant, the least he could do was cough up some money. What was mere pocket change to Jayceon could probably set him up for life.


    "Jayceon!" Hank called out, sliding into the elevator with a grin stered on his face. "Don''t buy into Ellie''s tough act. When she got pregnant with your child before, she defended you a lot. Even though she said she didn''t want to marry you, deep down, she''s still got feelings for you. Otherwise, why would she keep the child?"


    Jayceon knew that much, which was why he kept trying to win Ellie back. He sized Hank up-cheap suit, overstyled hair, like a wannabe hotshot.


    He didn''t seem like a fool.


    Jayceon responded with a casual air, "And then?"


    Hank leaned in and chuckled. "Look, that kid makes you a family, Jayceon. Ellie wille around eventually. Don''t worry; I''ll put in a good word for you in front of her. But, you know, it''s not easy to do that..."


    He shed Jayceon a knowing smile.


    Jayceon had already realized that Ellie didn''t like her family. He looked at Hank with a cold expressi¨®n.


    Rich didn''t mean reckless, and his money didn''t grow on trees. He kept silent. Embarrassed, Hank shifted gears. "My wedding''sing up, and I still don''t have a ce to call my own. So, here''s a win-win proposal. If I can persuade Ellie to marry you, can you..."


    "1


    Jayceon immediately understood him and nodded. "Sounds like a good idea."


    They then exchanged numbers, and Hank thumped his chest with confidence. "Don''t worry; I will get the job


    done!"


    Jayceon draped an arm around him. "When I first started dating Ellie, my mother wasn''t exactly her biggest fan. So, behind my back, she arranged an engagement for me. Ellie misunderstood the situation and thought I cheated on her. I''ve exined the situation to her multiple times till now, but she still refuses to believe me. I really love her. Can you help me set things right?"


    100


    16:33


    Chapter 2521 Will Help You With This


    He raised an eyebrow, looking at Hank.


    Hank''s gaze was glued to the watch on Jayceon''s wrist. He believed it was probably the real deal, not a fake.


    He said, "I will help you with this."


    Jayceon noticed Ellie''s eyes on his watch and casually slid it off, handing it to Hank. "You like it? It''s yours.


    Hank immediately pushed it back. "No way! I was just checking if it''s authentic, not asking for a gift!"


    He meant what he said.


    But to Jayceon, this watch was nothing. His dresser was a treasure trove of two dozen newer models; he


    couldn''t possibly wear them all.


    "Keep it; it''s yours," Jayceon said. Standing beside his sports car, he studied Hank, who looked sharp. He didn''t


    understand why Ellie didn''t like her brother.


    "Want to have lunch with me? My treat," Jayceon said.


    He believed this was the perfect opportunity to dig into Ellie''s family dynamics. Also, he could please this ally.


    After a quick call to Ang, Hank hopped into Jayceon''s car without a second thought.


    "Dope ride!" he remarked. "What much is this car?"


    He had been saving for a car since starting his job, but dating Ang had drained his savings.


    Jayceon shrugged. "A couple million."


    Hank was shocked, running reverent fingers over the leather seats. "It''s wild that Ellie gives you the cold shoulder when you''re both handsome and rich. She really is out of her mind."


    Jayceon didn''t see it that way. He felt that Ellie''s refusal to forgive him was entirely his fault.


    "Ellie is not at fault," Jayceon said. "Never speak ill of your sister like this in front of her. Tell her I''m the one who messed up. The most important thing is to let her know I recognize my mistake."


    Hank grinned. "I know this kind of stuff. Girls are never wrong-we always take the me. Leave the matter to


    me!"


    At Ellie''s ce.


    After a long spat with Ellie, Leif and Tori found themselves hungry. They finally opened the takeout bags Jayceon had brought. The dishes looked delicious.


    Without so much as an invitation, they plopped down at the table. Tori''s mood lifted as she dug in. "Enough squabbling! Let''s bury the hatchet."


    Ellie crossed her arms, feeling resigned. "You can only stay here for a while. Hank''s wedding is his problem, not mine. Don''t get any ideas about this ce."


    Patrick walked over and stood beside Ellie. "Mommy, why aren''t they leaving?" he asked.


    Tori beamed at him. "I''m your grandma. I will live with you from now on and cook for you! The dishes I make


    are to die for!"


    Th

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    Chapter 253 Greta''s New


    n


    Brenna went back home, her mind a million miles away, a veritable fog of thoughts obscuring her usual sharp focus. Giselle, with the keen eye of a seasoned observer, noted Brenna''s distracted demeanor and inquired,


    "What''s weighing on your mind?"


    "Mom, Ellie''s parents showed up today, demanding she buy houses for her brother''s wedding and for them. How could her parents do that to her?¡± Brenna said.


    Giselle let out a sigh and responded, "The world''s full of parents who mistreat their children. I know Ellie is your close friend, but this tempest is hers to weather. You shouldn''t interfere much."


    "I''m not interfering; I''m just furious for Ellie!" Brenna eximed. "Her parents abandoned her during her hardest years, and now that she''s finally sessful, theye back to her for money?" Her fists clenched. "What kind of parents treat their own child like that?"


    The injustice gnawed at Brenna for the rest of the afternoon until Giselle finally managed tofort her.


    "Do you remember Danika?" Giselle asked, changing the topic.


    Brenna nodded. "I remember her. She is an engineer at the National Research Institute. She is highly aplished and about to retire."


    Giselle said, "The National Research Institute has a joint project with Shirie University on advanced automotive technology. After seeing your lecture at the Harper Group, Danika believes you''re the only one who can properly exin the new torque calibration system. She wants you to go to the National Research Institute and give a few lectures. You will be paid a thousand dors per lecture. And if you''re interested, Shirie University will even make you an honorary professor."


    Brenna let out a soft chuckle. "I am not worthy of being an honorary professor. But I''ll do the lectures; I could use some of their top graduates at my studio anyway. Orders have been piling uptely."


    "I''ll notify the dean that you''ve agreed to this. You will give the lectures in October." Giselle then detailed Shirie University''s mechanical engineering program, which was top-ranked in Vand and even globally.


    "I''ll prepare properly, then," Brenna said. Even for her, lecturing at this level required serious preparation.


    Two weeks should be enough.


    The following days blurred together. With the fighter jet prototype entering a critical design phase, Brenna''s team pulled all-nighters. Brenna only had time to reply to her messages when she returned home at night.


    She realized that Greta almost messaged her every day. She just replied to her curtly.


    "I am about to graduate next year with my Master''s in Mechanical Engineering. Could I intern at your studio


    Chapter 253 Greta''s New n


    instead of taking the school''s cement?¡± Greta sent another message to Brenna.


    In her dorm, Greta prepared for bed, scowling at her phone. Brenna''s replies always camete and were often


    very short.


    Annoyance simmered inside her. She thought Brenna was so rude.


    "We don''t take interns. Sorry," Brenna finally responded.


    Greta didn''t hesitate. Her fingers flew across the screen as she sent Brenna photos of her award certificates.


    If her mother hadn''t told her that, even though there weren''t many people in Brenna''s studio, they handled contracts rivaling multinational firms.


    Her mother even believed that within two years, Brenna''s team would achieve global recognition.


    The team''s future was auspicious.


    That was why Greta desperately wanted to join the team.


    Greta sent Brenna another message. "Please take a look at these. My credentials speak for themselves. I''ll excel at any task."


    Brenna finally took the time to review Greta''s resume. She had to admit that it was impressive.


    "You''re wee to try. I''ll have Tommy McCoy, the head of the studio, contact you soon," Brenna replied.


    What Brenna hadn''t expected was to see Greta at her office door the very next day. At noon, Ethan was inviting Brenna to lunch when Greta appeared with a backpack.


    ¡°Brenna, I''m here!" Greta beamed. Then, catching sight of Ethan, she masked her excitement with perfectly timed politeness. "Mr. Mitchell."


    Her original n had been different. She had intended to apply for the Mitchell Group''s secretary position. That would have ced her near Ethan.


    But her mother had pointed out that the Mitchells were a military family. Their secretaries had great educational backgrounds, and there had never been a scandal involving the Mitchell family members and their


    secretaries.


    If Greta wanted to get close to Ethan, bing his secretary wouldn''t get her that.


    So, Greta had changed her n, wanting to get close to Ethan through Brenna. And, conveniently, her degree fit the role.


    Brenna''s cool gaze swept over Greta, taking in the travel-rumpled suit. She could tell Greta was fresh off the


    ne.


    Brenna said, "Let''s have lunch first. Then we''ll talk."


    Greta turned to Ethan, keeping her expression calm despite the joy in her heart.


    "I hope I''m not interrupting you?" she asked carefully.


    Ethan''s icy nce made his thoughts abundantly clear. She knew she was interrupting. And yet, here she was, wanting to join them for lunch anyway.

 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 254

    Chapter 254 Seeing Jade Again


    The Financial Building housed a variety ofpanies, with a workforce numbered in the thousands. The ground floor was home to an assortment of dining options, while the nearby street, lined with over a dozen office towers, boasted even more eateries. Restaurateurs mored for space here, drawn by the people working


    here''s generous sries and robust spending power.


    Brenna and her team were regrs at one particr buffet, and today was no different.


    Ethan and Brenna filled their trays, choosing dishes side by side. Positioning herself next to Ethan, Greta picked her food while discreetly observing Ethan''s selections.


    She couldn''t help but notice that his choicescked any clear pattern. There was no obvious preference in his


    varied assortment.


    Besides, beneath his seemingly indifferent exterior, there was a thoughtful streak. He even gently asked about


    Brenna''s preferences.


    This unexpected tenderness caused a flutter in Greta''s chest.


    "Ethan, I have been looking everywhere for you." Jade appeared out of nowhere and smoothly slid into the seat


    beside Ethan.


    Ethan''s frosty gaze flickered with surprise. Jade''s tray looked like a carefully arranged painting, each dish ced precisely for visual appeal.


    She sank into the chair with effortless grace, her quiet takeover executed without a hint of haste.


    Brenna simply took the empty seat across from Ethan. She settledfortably, showing no sign of annoyance.


    Jade''s smile turned sharp enough to cut ss. "Apologies, Miss Harper. I trust you don''t mind my choice of


    seat?"


    "You can sit wherever you want," Brenna replied, her voice as cold as the winter wind.


    Greta''s nails dug into her palms. Who was this presumptuous intruder? This woman didn''t look like a good person at all. She wasn''t worthy of sharing the same air as Ethan, let alone a table.


    "That seat belongs to Brenna." Greta''sposure cracked. "You should move."


    Ethan looked at Greta, his silence heavy with unspoken agreement. Greta had voiced what he couldn''t say.


    Jade chuckled mockingly. "The grown-ups are talking. You shouldn''t interfere." Her nce dismissed Greta like she was nothing.


    "Brenna got here first!" Greta snapped, mming her tray down and reaching out to yank Jade from the chair.


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    Chapter 254 Seeing Jade Again


    Brenna caught her wrist to stop her and said, "It''s just a seat. I''m perfectly fine sitting here."


    Jade''sughter rang out like a victory bell. She deliberately moved her chair closer to Ethan until their arms


    almost touched


    Ethan''s initial surprise froze into indifference. "Last I checked, you were supposed


    to be behind bars," he said coolly, slicing into his steak.


    Greta sank into her seat, simmering with frustration. But she recognized that anyone who knew Ethan like this


    must be someone with power.


    Jade twirled her fork casually. "My father had leverage-a spy inside the military. They worked out an exchange, and I got out of jail," she said, as casually as if she were talking about the weather.


    Even Ethan hadn''t expected the Ward family''s influence to stretch so wide.


    Brenna looked indifferent as she said, "How fortunate. Though if I were you, I would tread carefully from now on. Your father''s leverage might notst forever." Ethan added, "Next time, they might directly give you a death sentence."


    Jade''s smile sharpened like the edge of a de. "You still owe me a favor, Ethan. I can''t die so soon."


    The air sizzled with tension as the trio exchanged verbal daggers.


    Greta shrank quietly into herself. Military spies, prison escapes-this wasn''t some petty workce spat but dangerous power ys.


    After a while, Jade said with a smile, "Oh! There''s good news I almost forgot to tell you. I have purchased office space in the Financial Building, Brenna. We will be working in the same building from now on."


    Brenna was displeased by the news. She said sarcastically, "How lovely. Has the Ward family shifted from trafficking narcotics to legitimate trade?¡±


    Greta stiffened, stunned. She felt she had heard something she shouldn''t hear. She stared hard at her te, silently wishing she had picked the far end of the table instead of sitting near Ethan.


    Jade didn''t seem upset by Brenna''s words. Herughter rang out. "The Wards only handle legitimate business. It seems you have been misinformed."


    Leaning closer to Ethan, Jade said in a low voice, "Those robotics and drone projects you have your sights on, I


    think?" want them. You can let me have them to repay me. What do you


    Ethan smiled, but it didn''t reach his eyes. "No offense, but yourpany is unable topete with the Mitchell Group on that. Besides, yourpany doesn''t have the power toplete these projects even if you get them. Feel free to prove me wrong."


    Jade''s eyes shed with anger. "Then tell me," she said, "how exactly do you n on repaying me? Are you considering an alternative form of payment?"


    A suddenugh escaped her lips as she thought of something. "That might not be such a bad idea."


    Jade put one hand on Ethan''s arm as she leaned in and said, "Do you think your mother would wee me into the Mitchell family as your wife?"


    16:22


    Chapter 254 Seeing Jade Again


    "Enough!" Ethan eximed, pushing her away.


    Greta sat frozen, stunned by Jade''s audacity,


    She nced at Brenna and noticed her cold expression.

 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 255

    Chapter 255 Be Careful


    "Quite bold of you to say that," Brenna said, raising her eyes to meet Jade''s as she aimlessly toyed with her


    meal using her fork. "Aiming to be Ethan''s wife? Have you asked him about this? Or me?"


    Ethan stood up, carefully pushed his chair back, and methodically removed his suit, tossing it into a nearby bin.


    He then took the seat next to Brenna, his eyes soft yet firm as they met hers. "I am yours. The decision of our


    marriage rests upon you-there''s no need for my input or my parents","


    Greta felt a surge of envy as she heard that, her heart fluttering at Ethan''s unwaveringmitment.


    She recognized that the connection between Ethan and Brenna was not one to be easily broken.


    As Jade watched the suit tumble into the trash, a sudden realization hit her-Ethan was disgusted by her touch.


    "Is this your way of insulting me?" she hissed. "Don''t forget, you''d be dead if it weren''t for my help in Norview!"


    Ethan calmly said, "By the time you arrived, your father''s men had already been defeated. They were never a


    real threat to me."


    Jade let out a cold snort, and her appetite vanished as she stared at the food before her.


    She forced herself to calm down, reminding herself that no matter what, Ethan owed her a favor.


    "Regardless, I helped you, and you owe me a favor," she said through clenched teeth. "That''s undeniable."


    Jade''s eyes lingered on Brenna''s wlessplexion and elegant features. Brenna resembled a princess from a


    tale. No wonder Ethan had fallen for her.


    Even she had to admit that Brenna was breathtaking.


    However, Jade was confident in her own unique charm. She believed that sooner orter, Ethan would get


    bored of Brenna.


    "Miss Harper, are you truly convinced that Ethan''s love for you willst forever?" Jade said.


    "He loves me now, and that''s all that matters to me," Brenna answered. "He doesn''t even like you now."


    Brenna valued what was hers, though she believed she didn''t love Ethan. She was a reserved person and


    thought that she probably wouldn''t fall for anyone.


    But she could see that Ethan was a great man. He had protected her with his own life when she had been in danger.


    Anyone wanting what she had would need her permission first.


    Brenna grasped Ethan''s hand firmly and said, "He belongs to me."


    As Greta watched Brenna assert her im, she realized that her chances of winning Ethan''s heart were slim.


    Beneath Brenna''s delicate exteriory a strong, unyielding resolve. Greta believed she was unable topete with Brenna.


    Jade, with a hint of internal mockery, believed that men''s affections were


    unpredictable, swayed by changing loyalties and self-interest.


    Believing she and Ethan were the same kind of people, she was certain that, in time, Ethan would eventually be


    hers.


    "Given how unpredictable life is," Jade said. "Can you really be so certain of that?¡±


    Brenna smiled, but her eyes remained cold. "My youth and beauty give me the advantage. You, on the other hand, don''t have that advantage. Ethan wouldn''t want to be with you no matter what."


    Jade''s anger was clear as she eximed, "How dare you say something like that?"


    Ethan''sughter quietly acknowledged Brenna''s boldness. "This is exactly why I love her," he said.


    He put a drumstick on Brenna''s te and said, ¡°Dealing with Jade must be exhausting for you. You should


    have some protein."


    After lunch, Ethan apanied Brenna back to her studio. He entered her office with her and closed the door behind them. Then, he quickly called his father.


    "Dad, why is Jade free already? Weren''t there hundreds of kilos of drugs found on her yacht? How could they just release her with such serious charges?"


    A heavy sigh came through the phone. "Do you remember the agent we lost six months ago? He''s vital to our "operations. We had to secure his release, and trading Jade was our only way to get him back."


    Ethan listened to his father speak, lost in thought.


    He was taken aback by the Ward family''s audacity. Jade had just been freed through a trade, yet instead of fleeing to Norview, she and her family boldly stayed here.


    "Be cautious, there are probably bigger ns at work here," Emmett warned


    Ethan. "The Ward family wouldn''t stay without a good reason."


    As their conversation ended, a message from Jade popped up on Ethan''s phone,


    an invite for a hiking trip the


    next day.


    With a swift gesture, Ethan muted his phone.


    Seeing this, Brenna said to Ethan, "You should agree. It''s time to find out what Jade''s nning to do."

 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 256

    Chapter 256 Who The Hell


    Are You


    Thiago wrapped up his work at both studios and nced at his watch. It was well past ten in the evening. He


    grabbed his suit jacket from the back of the chair and left, carrying the weight of a long day on his shoulders.


    At a nearby street stall, he bought two sandwiches. He figured Ellie might still be up, and they could share a midnight snack.


    The fingerprint scanner at Ellie''s door let him in without a hitch. But as he stepped inside, he froze. An older


    woman with silver hair stood nearby in satin sleepwear. Her re could have cut through steel.


    Thiago backed up and double-checked the apartment number. "I am indeed in the right ce," he murmured.


    Tori studied him. He was sharply dressed and holding a bag. He moved like someone who belonged here. And


    he was clearly not Jayceon.


    Tori raised a slipper, ready to strike. "Who the hell are you?"


    Thiago''s sharp gaze softened as he thought of something. "You must be the housekeeper Ellie hired," he said.


    Lately, Ellie had beenining about their packed schedules. No one was doing the cleaning, looking after Patrick, or cooking. She had mentioned hiring a housekeeper.


    "Housekeeper? I am not the housekeeper!" Tori hurled the slipper at Thiago,


    furious.


    Though experienced in fighting, Thiago wouldn''t raise a hand to an older woman. He stepped back toward the doorway and gently caught her wrist to stop her. "Then who are you?"


    To Tori, Thiago had to be the man Ellie had been messing around with.


    She was angry, thinking that Ellie hadn''t be rich because of her job. She thought that Ellie got rich because she was messing with several men, relying on them to give her money.


    Tori eximed in anger, "I should be asking you the same question! What are you doing here in the middle of


    the night?"


    Hearing themotion, Ellie stepped out of the bedroom in her pajamas. Her damp hair clung to her shoulders. She had just gotten out of a shower.


    "Mom, stop!" Ellie shouted. She felt a headacheing on upon seeing what was happening. She hadpletely forgotten to tell Thiago that her family was here. Thiago had gone on a business trip recently, and she had been busy with her work. That was why she hadn''t


    told him about the matter.


    She hadn''t expected such a misunderstanding to ur.


    Chapter 256 Who The Hell Are You


    Ellie pulled Thiago inside and shut the door.


    Tori''s anget red at the sight of Ellie. Then, at the top of her lungs, she screamed, "You better start talking Who is this man? How many are you messing with? You shameless girl!"


    Leif and Hank quickly stepped out of their rooms. They were both stunned at the sight of the well-dressed man standing in the middle of the living room.


    Hank shot Ellie a sneaky thumbs-up, impressed by her apparent sess innding yet another rich man.


    His mind raced. Which one of these men was Patrick''s real father?


    Theplexity of his sister''s love life amused Hank.


    He leaned against the wall, thoroughly enjoying the drama.


    Meanwhile, Leif''s face darkened like a storm. Jabbing a finger at Thiago, he snapped at Ellie, "Who is this man?"


    "Everyone, just calm down," said Ellie, trying to steady her voice. "This is my boyfriend, Thiago Moreno."


    As she spoke, her cheeks flushed with embarrassment.


    Leif''s eyebrows knitted together. "Then what is your rtionship with Jayceon? I am getting confused."


    The idea that his daughter might be sleeping around filled him with shame.


    Ellie took a steady breath and exined, ¡°Jayceon is Patrick''s father. We broke up seven years ago. He has been pestering me to get back together with him; there''s nothing between us. Thiago is my boyfriend. We made it officialst month. He has been looking out for me in Norview these past few years."


    She looked at her parents, unsure if they would believe her.


    Suddenly, Hank thought of the expensive watch Jayceon had given him. If he had known about Thiago, he


    never would''ve epted it.


    What he thought had been a smart move now felt reckless. He should have talked to Ellie first before doing


    anything.


    He let out a quiet sigh. The damage was done, and giving the gift back wasn''t really an option. He was in a


    dilemma now.


    Hank studied Thiago. The man carried himself with undeniable authority. His tailored suit made him look every


    bit as wealthy as Jayceon.


    He offered a smile to Thiago.


    Meanwhile, Leif didn''t say anything more. This potential son-inw seemed decent enough. With a grunt, he


    turned and headed back to his room.


    Tori, however, thought differently. With arms crossed, she snapped at Thiago, "You two are already living together before getting married? And what brings you here at this hour?"


    Her re locked onto Thiago, sharp enough to cut steel.


    Thiago exchanged a nce with Ellie. He knew he wouldn''t be able to stay here tonight.


    He held up the bag he was holding and exined, "I came here to bring some


    food to Ellie. Thought she might be hungry. But since you''re all here, I''ll be leaving


    now."


    Not long after, Ellie walked Thiago down the stairs and whispered, "I forgot to tell you they were here. I''m so


    sorry."


    Thiago nced up at the window. A head peeked through the curtains, watching them closely.


    "My flight got moved up. I wanted to surprise you, but I was the one who got surprised," he joked.


    He then reached into his pocket and pulled out a small velvet box. "I picked this up while I was out of the


    country. Thought it might suit you."

 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 257

    Chapter 257 Irresistible


    Prize


    Tori watched Ellie and Thiago from the window like a hawk, her disapproval evident. In her mind, Thiago fell shortpared to Jayceon in every way.


    "What does that man even do for a living?" she asked the moment Ellie stepped back inside. The questions came fast and hard. She asked about Thiago''s ie, his family, his age, and whether he had been married before. With every question, Ellie''s frustration grew.


    By the time Tori reached the 20th question, something inside Ellie snapped.


    On Saturday afternoon, just after six, Brenna and Ethan pulled up at the entrance of a winding mountain road


    in the western outskirts of Shirie.


    Jade was already there, waiting.


    She wore leather from head to toe, the outfit hugging her figure perfectly. The yellow racing stripes on her car were striking. Arms crossed and blood-red lips twisted into a wicked grin, she said, "Took you long enough. I almost thought you were too scared to show up."


    With those words, she walked up to Ethan, her hips swaying with every step. "Guess why I picked this ce?" she asked, though the question slipped out like a challenge.


    Ethan didn''t bother looking at her and curtly said, "Race."


    This mountain pass was infamous for its sharp turns curled above steep cliffs. The tarmac was smooth and fast, daring anyone to take it head-on.


    Hardly anyone came up here. But every street racer in the city knew this road. The moment Jade''s invitation came through, its meaning had been clear. Ethan and Brenna had understood Jade''s intention when they had seen the location.


    "I''ve prepared something... special," Jade said, her eyes gleaming with cruel delight.


    "What could possibly top racing here? Did you n something lethal?" Brenna said. She kept her gaze locked on Jade, catching the slight re in her pupils.


    She could see through Jade. This wasn''t about winning. It was about getting rid of her. Jade wanted to humiliate her, or worse, get her killed.


    For a moment, Jade''s sneer slipped. She had assumed Brenna was too soft to handle a real race. But that vulnerability was just a mask. This woman had taken down trained men alongside Thiago. She had even killed Viper without blinking.


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    Who moved through violence with that kind of grace? Only the devil could.


    And tonight, Jade nned to kill the devil dressed in human skin.


    But she needed to get Brenna to race with her first. Her crimson lips curved into a challenge, and she sneered, "What''s the matter, Miss Harper? Scared of a little race?"


    Brennaughed, cold and sharp as the mountain wind. "You are trying to provoke me to force me to join the


    race?"


    "You''ve never raced before, right?" Jade trailed her fingers along the roof of her car like it was a prized stallion "The thrill when you hit 200 on these curves... Unforgettable."


    Brenna turned to Ethan and muttered, "She''s nning my crash. She thinks after she kills me, she can im


    you."


    Ethan''s icy gaze swept over Jade. He had already seen through her.


    "And who exactly are you challenging?" he said to Jade. "Do you want to have a race with me or Brenna?"


    Jade''s eyes gleamed. "Now that''s a question worth asking. I''m thinking of


    something a little... inventive. I wonder if you will agree to it."


    Ethan didn''t blink. He knew how malicious she was. "I''m not doing anything that puts Brenna in danger."


    Just then, three more cars rolled up.


    Brenna recognized them at once.


    Jayceon stepped out first, followed by Denis. Then Ernst emerged with unexpectedpany-Lilith.


    Lilith emerged from the passenger seat, wrapped in a cloud of citrus perfume. A secondter, Isabe got out


    of Denis'' car.


    Isabe looked pleased with herself, draped in designer clothes and glittering jewelry. She had the glow of someone who had been living well.


    However, her mood soured the moment her eyesnded on Brenna. Trouble always seemed to tag along whenever they crossed paths.


    Isabe gave Brenna a quick, dismissive nce and let out a scoff.


    Lilith waved at Brenna. She had no idea what was going to happen here.


    Brenna offered a polite smile to Lilith. She believed her mother must have forced Ernst to date Lilith.


    Seeing Ernst with Lilith made Brenna curious. Where was Sabine? Had she and Ernst broken up?


    She made a mental note to ask Ernst about thister.


    Just then, Jade pped her hands, her voice cutting through the air. "Perfect timing. Let me tell you the rules for today."


    Jayceon sauntered forward and said, "And since when did you get to make the rules?"


    A cold smile tugged at Ethan''s lips. That was exactly what he wanted to say.


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    Ernst stepped forward. "Yeah, we''re all important figures here. Why should we listen to you?"


    Neither he nor Jayceon bothered hiding their contempt. After all, they had already decided not to cooperate.


    with Jade on business.


    Lilith edged closer to Brenna. "Are they really going to race? I''ve heard stories about this ce. Many people


    like to race here."


    "Yes. And Ernst should''ve known better than to bring you here," Brenna muttered, ncing at the treacherous curves up ahead. "It''s too dangerous."


    Denis thought differently from the rest. "This is just a game. It''s not anything


    lethal. Since when did you all be so timid?"


    Then, he turned to Jade and shed a smile. "Miss Hewitt, maybe they''d consider joining for the right kind of


    reward?"


    Jade''s nails dug into her palms. These men acted like they were above her. So arrogant.


    "The rules are simple," Jade said, her tone ice-cold. "Fastest time from the base


    to the summit barrier wins. The person who gets closest to the summit barrier will


    be the victor. Pull that off, and the entire Vand portfolio from the Ward family is yours."


    Denis'' eyes widened in shock at that. Even Jayceon''s usualposure faltered. The prize was too irresistible to ignore.

 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 258

    Chapter 258 Jade''s Invitation


    Brenna and Ethan exchanged a look that gave away nothing. Their expressions were unreadable.


    Jade''s lips tightened. Only Denis and Jayceon had taken the bait. Ethan''s cold silence scraped at her pride. It seemed this was still not enough.


    "The Ward family''s Vand operations span twelve industries. This kind of opportunity won''te again," she


    added.


    Brenna studied her nails. "You are indeed smart, Miss Hewitt. Set the four powerful families against each other. Let us bleed for scraps off your table while you sit back and wait to reap the rewards."


    She fixed a sharp gaze at Jade and sneered, "Do you really think you are being generous for doing this? You must have ulterior motives, Miss Hewitt. The Ward family doesn''t run clean. The moment someone takes your gift, their cargo gets gged. They will get in trouble for this soon."


    Ethan nodded, valuing Brenna''s insight. She was a finance graduate student with her own studio. When it came to something like this, she saw what others missed.


    He turned to Jade and said, "If the Ward family really wants to work with Vand enterprises, they could just open a tender. Why all the theatrics? Something''s fishy."


    Jayceon''s excitement cooled fast at their words. Meanwhile, Ernst''s gaze at Jade turned to ice.


    Jade''s real motive had been revealed. But she onlyughed. "Why should I let outsiders profit when I have such... aplished friends like you? Each of you has remarkable capability, and I''ve taken notice of that."


    "I am not interested in your offer," Ethan said coldly, leaving no room for doubt.


    He then slipped an arm around Brenna and led her toward the low-slung sports


    car.


    Seeing them about to leave, Jade stepped forward to stop them. "Why the rush? Mr. Mitchell, you really won''t consider annual profits in the billions?"


    "I already told you, I''m not interested." Ethan slid into the car with Brenna. A secondter, the engine growled to life, and they pulled away.


    Not long after, Jayceon and Ernst followed suit. They got into their own cars and drove off.


    Jade''s stiletto struck the pavement with a sharp crack. "Short-sighted fools!"


    Denis approached her, slick with charm. "Miss Hewitt, our Wagner Group is one of Vand''s leading enterprises. Perhaps you and I could explore a possible partnership?"


    Jade just shot Denis a re. Ethan had hit the mark. The Ward family''s most profitable ventures thrived in


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    murky waters, far from anything that could get a public bid.


    "We will go to the top of the mountain to talk," Jade eventually said to Denis.


    Meanwhile, Ethan and the others gathered at the Imperial Bar.


    Lilith clung to Brenna''s arm, eyes wide at the champagne-soaked mour. This had been her first timeing to a ce like this.


    Her unease was evident.


    "Do I have to drink alcohol here?" she asked, already dreading the thought of Ernst watching her stumble over


    herself.


    Brenna smiled. "No. A beverage will do just fine."


    Once they stepped into their usual private room, they all received an invitation from Jade. The invitation to a rally in Shirie the next weekend.


    Ernst let out a snort. "That lunatic has won race after race by driving like she''s overdosed."


    Jayceon was about to smoke when he saw Brenna and Lilith. He quickly gave up on the idea and put the cigarette case back to his pocket.


    With a grim expression, he remarked, "She won''t stop until she gets what she wants."


    Ethan nodded. "Viper''s death hit her hard. The Ward family''s hold in Vand has been slipping. And with Viper, the only one who knew how their operations worked here, gone, the Ward family is getting desperate. They''re eager to reopen the market in Vand through a perfect business partner."


    Jayceon said, "Our four families hold the widest salesworks in Vand. No matter which one they reel in, the Ward family can rebuild their business here fast and also pull the rest of us down with them."


    Brenna''s eyes swept across the men, sharp and cold. "The Ward family is a disease. The whole world''s getting sick of them."


    Ethan patted her hand reassuringly. "Don''t worry. The government and the military will deal with them." Brenna''s lips curved slightly. "To be honest, my studio got a coboration offer from Edward himself not long ago. I think the Ward family is nning to expand into several major economies and cash in big."


    Jayceon''s eyes turned cold. The fact that Edward had reached out to Brenna''s small studio caught him off guard. It spoke volumes not just about her skill in mechanical design, but also her sharp grasp of economics and finance.


    Brenna looked at the three men and said, "So, I''m nning to participate in the rally. I want to find out what Jade''s really after."

 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 259

    Chapter 259 Have You No


    Shame


    As the low hum of whiskey-fueled business discussions filled the air, Brenna and Lilith found sce in a serene corner, sipping on cocktails so light they might as well have been beverages.


    Brenna couldn''t help but see a reflection of herself in Lilith. They both carried an air of reserved coolness, likely


    Their dialogue sometimes stumbled into silence, prompting both to retreat to the digitalfort of their


    smartphones.


    As she observed Lilith, Brenna noticed that she made no effort to impress Ernst, even though the Harper family


    was rich and powerful.


    Brenna found herself drawn to the ease in Lilith''s manner. Lilith had shown up inid-back clothes, nothing shy or overly styled. Aside from the light color on her lips and her neatly shaped brows, there wasn''t a single sign that she had dressed up to date Ernst.


    This authenticity resonated deeply with Brenna.


    Upon returning home, Brenna asked Ernst, "Did you break up with Sabine?"


    Ernst gave a quiet nod in response. Back when things had ended between them, he hade to see just how much Sabine valued wealth. She had asked for ten million as a parting price, saying it was only fair after all the affection, time, and efforts she had given him over the years.


    Sabine knew exactly what she was doing. The moment the moneynded in her ount, she gave her word that she would keep everything that had happened between her and Ernst buried for good.


    Sensing Ernst''s reluctance to delve into the breakup details, Brenna merely said, "Lilith seems genuine, unlike


    Sabine."


    Ernst merely shrugged. His interaction with Lilith had been subdued; their words were scarce as both he and Lilith were naturally reserved.


    Ernst admitted he didn''t know much about charming women. When he had been dating Sabine, she had always been the one to keep the conversation alive.


    "If you and Mom approve of her, that''s good enough for me," Ernst stated casually.


    Brennaughed, saying, "You''re the one who is dating her, not Mom or me. Next time, maybe bring a gift to her when you meet her. Take a leaf out of Ethan''s book-he always brings me small gifts when we meet."


    She unted the rose Ethan had given her.


    Ernst rolled his eyes. He had known Ethan since childhood and knew him to be emotionally detached. Since


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    when had then be a posedo


    Still, if a man se insenele se han bo moge to yang ke wake kapim af


    he started putting to a more affort of how


    "Alright," Drost responded, his via Bripping wek resignation


    Back in her room, s gots show, slipped to her pajamose, a p


    Ons busting Tuesday afternoon, we was ang kw dies. Things at yo


    hand. "There are a tew projects we need to discuss he sat "wow do you base


    They drove in different cars to a well known seafood stavme io Shor


    Spanning three floors and 1,000 square meters, the restaurant consued with geure que vos bes


    was outside.


    Brenna, being here for the first time, eyed the crowd with overprice. "The ces


    said


    A slight smile crossed Thigo''s lips. "It''s the food bere, it''s exey and I de spending


    w ensure we''d get a great spot. The chef here is a wizard with sedood"


    They were seated at a spacious round table despite being a party of two bigo, Seiler with the several dishes for Brenna to try.


    The bustling crowd in the restaurant meant a longer wait for their med in the near, be th huddled over business ns, discussing international stages with that tends dos tre


    Unbeknownst to them, an elderly woman''s gaze was fixed on them from another pas of the


    Their intense conversation was abruptly interrupted by a thril outburst ten tap ton zz daughter''s boyfriend; you dare cheat on her with her friend?" bream spun around to be the case stylishly attired woman with bold makeup.


    A resounding p disrupted the restaurant''s chatter, sending Thiago reeing from the impa


    Both Brenna and Thiago sprang to their feet at once, their eyes carefully watching the elderly w


    surprise.


    Brenna now saw the person clearly-a woman dressed in striking red, her round figure squeezed into the fanc her face caked in heavy foundation that made her skin look ghost-white. She was wearing bold red lipstick


    It was Ellie''s mother, Tori


    In disbelief, Brenna blurted out, "Tori?"


    Mirroring her, Thiago also eximed, ¡°Tori?"


    Both echoed each other''s astonishment at seeing Tori here. A quick scan of the venue stowed to sign of Elhe Tori''s face contorted with rage as the nted her hands on her hips and shouted at them, "Have you to stame? What''s gotten into you, Thiago? You went behind Elbe''s back and cheated on her Elle had to be out of her mind to fall for a guy like you!"


    Sheshed out at Thiago, her arms thrashing through the air in a storm of fury


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 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 260

    Chapter 260 Cheating On You With Your Best Friend


    Typically, Brenna and Thiago would have neutralized any threat before a strike could even be felt.


    However, this was Ellie''s mother, making retaliation out of the question.


    "Tori!" Brenna choked back her annoyance, dodging Tori''s wild swings.


    Defensively, Thiago put up his arms, saying, "Tori, let me exin..."


    Tori didn''t bother with fancy manners or sugar-coated words. To her, the situation was simple-Thiago was fooling around with Brenna, making no effort to hide it, and acting bold enough to unt the affair where anyone passing by could witness it.


    As sheshed out at Thiago, she yelled insults. Her barrage of usations flew as she shouted, "One of you is Ellie''s boyfriend, and the other her best friend. How could you betray Ellie like this? I''ll teach you a hard lesson!"


    Tightening her jaw, Brenna found Tori''s antics ridiculous. Thiago attempted to get a word in, but Tori''s loudints smothered his exnations.


    Stepping in, Brenna pulled Tori away, her grip firm and unexpectedly strong, causing significant pain to Tori Dramatically, Tori screamed, "These shameless people are trying to kill me!"


    The entire restaurant''s patrons turned their gazes towards them, with whispers of judgment beginning to


    spread.


    Tori kept shouting at the top of her lungs, carrying on as though Brenna had tried to harm her. The people nearby didn''t hesitate to chime in, using Brenna of using her youth to bully someone older and more


    vulnerable.


    Annoyed, Brenna despised such baseless attacks and the judgment before understanding the situation from Tori, typical of self-entitled seniors.


    Her hold remained firm as she confronted Tori coldly. "What exactly did you think you saw? Must you scream without understanding the full story?"


    Tori wasn''t the type to back down easily. Her features scrunched up in pain, but she brushed off the question and raised her voice even more, screaming, "Someone help! They''re trying to kill me!"


    The uproar caught the attention of the restaurant staff and the manager.


    Approaching them, the manager suggested diplomatically, "Miss, maybe it''s best to let her go? We must be careful with the elderly. Any harm to her could bring serious consequences."


    Recognizing the manager''s genuine concern, Brenna guessed that Ellie might be somewhere close. Further


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    Chapter 260 Cheating On You With Your Best Friend


    confrontation would onlyplicate matters for her.


    With a sigh of frustration, Brenna released her hold..


    Tori, still overacting, rubbed her wrist and said, "You think this makes it right? You are shameless!"


    Thiago felt utterly bewildered by Tori''s usations and tried to pacify her with patience. "Tori, you need to calm down. We can talk this through. Brenna is my boss, and we were merely discussing business just now. There is nothing between us."


    "Liar!" shouted Tori, spitting the word with such force that drops of saliva sprayed from her mouth. "Since when do people sit so close to discuss work? Don''t think I didn''t notice-you two had your heads so near, you might as well have been kissing. What a disgusting behavior in public!"


    With his hands balled into fists, Thiago restrained himself solely because of Tori''s connection to Ellie.


    Tori''s usations grew wilder, slinging mud at Thiago''s family and threatening to prevent any marriage between him and Ellie.


    A fury smoldered within Thiago, yet he forced himself to stayposed. He knew better than to act on his


    anger.


    Brenna was baffled by the contrast between Ellie''s rational demeanor and her mother''s irrational outbursts.


    In the next second, Brenna gave Tori a p,


    Tori was visibly shaken, clearly not expecting Brenna to p her.


    Brenna calmly said, "Thiago and I are simply coworkers. Why would we even choose such a visible spot for an ¡°affair?¡±


    Tori, however, was fixated only on the fact that she had been struck by someone younger. To her, the act was deeply offensive.


    "Enough of your nonsense!" Tori eximed, outraged. "It''s astonishing that someone as young and attractive as you could act so shamefully, flirting openly with someone else''s boyfriend. You have no decency!"


    With an angry snort, she responded, "Is that what this is about? You can''t stand that Elliended someone wealthy and good-looking, so you seduced her boyfriend. You are jealous of Ellie!"


    Continuing her rant, she turned towards Thiago. ¡°Men today grow arrogant with a little wealth. You slept with my daughter but didn''t marry her. Now, you even cheated on her! Ellie is lucky not to have married you!"


    "Mom!" At that moment, Ellie burst in, apanied by Patrick, and behind them trailed Leif, Hank, and a young girl.


    Tori wasted no time walking to Ellie. "Look at this! Your boyfriend is cheating on you with your best friend!"


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    "Mom, please, let''s not cause amotion here." Ellie interrupted Tori''s heatedint and turned to apologize to the manager and the staff.


    The manager, seeing the situation being diffused, left with the staff.


    Ellie firmly guided Tori to a seat, her frustration noticeable. She was astonished that in the brief moment she had parked the car, Tori had created such a scene. She exined to Tori, "Brenna and Thiago have been my trusted friends for a long time. They would never do anything to hurt me."


    Tori, still seething, touched her reddened cheek. ¡°Ellie, after everything that''s happened, how can you overlook this? Are you even aware of what they were doing just now?"


    She pressed her fingertips together, exasperated. "I saw them earlier, closer than you could imagine. I even feel ashamed for them!"


    Leif was about to step in when Hank held him back.


    Spotting Thiago, Hank greeted him happily. "Thiago! Ellie had some free time today and brought us here for a meal. I didn''t expect to see you here. What a coincidence!" he eximed.


    Leif muttered under his breath, "Must you always address every guy close to Ellie like they''re your best friend? Stop being such a sycophant."


    His expression was one of disappointment as he watched Hank trying to tter Thiago.


    Tori, not yet done, continued her rant, "Appearances can be deceiving! That friend of yours, she''s attractive, sure, but that''s exactly why she''s dangerous! She definitely seduced your boyfriend on purpose! Ellie, you need to cut ties with a maniptive individual like her!"


    She still felt the sting of the earlier p, and her eyes bore into Brenna with malice. ¡°She is clearly the type who always seduces men using her good looks. I''ve encountered countless women like her before..."


    Embarrassed by Tori, Ellie quickly said, "Mom, you''ve got it all wrong. Brenna isn''t just some woman; she''s the daughter of the powerful Harper family. She also has two studios that generate billions every year! Even Thiago works for her. And she has a boyfriend. Please, no more unfounded usations."


    Tori''s eyes grew wide with shock; she hadn''t expected Brenna to be so rich. "Really? Is what you said true?" she asked.


    Ellie nodded with a serious expression. "Yes, I''ve visited her home before. Her mother even gifted me something expensive. You must apologize to her now. If the Harpers hear of this, we could face serious repercussions."


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    Tori''splexion drained as she emisioned the power of wealthy famibes to devastate lives effortlessly, amon trope in movies


    She was now scared of Brenna


    With a quavering voice, Tori said, ¡°Miss Harper, please ept my deepest apologies. I am just an ignorant old woman who often talks nonsense. Please forgive my careless words earlier!"


    She caught Brenna''s cold stare, tinged with a threat, and recalled how firmly Brenna had held her wrist to stop


    her earker.


    A real fear gripped her. She believed that if she didn''t apologize to Brenna sincerely, she would soon find a


    chance to kill her.


    As panic set in, she gripped Brenna''s hand, her knees weak. I''m always saying the wrong things. Feel free to reprimand or punish me as you see fit. I ept all consequences."


    A faint smile yed on Brenna''s lips as she was struck by the drastic turnaround


    in Tori''s attitude. Recognizing her as Ellie''s mother, Brenna chose to be lenient. "Let''s just forget about what happened earlier."


    Ellie, seeking to smooth things over, gently touched Thiago''s arm. "Please forgive my mom. She just jumped to wrong conclusions..."


    Thiago''s gaze softened. "I''m not offended. No apologies necessary," he said to Tori.


    The way Thiago and Ellie looked at each other was full of tenderness.


    Brenna raised an eyebrow at this, recalling how just two months ago, Thiago had only been friends with Ellie.


    How had Thiago and Ellie gotten together so quickly? And from what Tori had said, it seemed they were already living together.


    Brenna didn''t even know when they had moved in together.


    Politely, Thiago invited the Moores to join their table, ordering several more dishes.


    As they awaited the dishes to arrive, Thiago and Brenna plunged back into a discussion about work.


    Hank and his girlfriend listened in awe to the scale of transactions they were talking about-millions exchanged internationally-far beyond their usual scope.


    This only deepened their admiration for Brenna and Thiago. A shared thought suddenly struck them: if they could form a connection with Brenna, the daughter of the powerful Harper family, sess woulde easily with just a single word from her.


    So theyvished Brenna with praise and engaged her in eager conversation.


    Ellie, observing her brother''s overt ttery, felt a deep urge to vanish from the embarrassing disy.


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    Ellie had never felt this humiliated in front of Brenna before. She had no idea how to even apologize to Brenna.


    After they finished eating, Ellie insisted on paying for the meal. It was the only way she could think to make


    amends.


    Sitting beside Ellie, Tori muttered, "Isn''t your friend from some big-shot family? If she is that rich, then you should let her pay the bill."


    Ellie just shot her a re. Then, without a word, she got up and walked toward the counter to settle the bill


    Tori scowled. "What? Where are you going? Did I say anything wrong?"


    Thiago could not help but sigh at Tori''s behavior.


    Though irritated, he said nothing and followed after Ellie. In his mind, it wasn''t right to let a woman handle the


    bill.


    When Brenna got home, her phone lit up with a stream of apology messages from Thiago and Ellie.


    The next evening, Ellie slipped into a canary yellow dress. She grabbed a white handbag and changed her shoes by the door.


    Just then, Tori stepped out of the kitchen with a stack of dishes. "Dinner''s almost ready. Where are you going? Still buckling her shoes, Ellie turned with a sh of anger and responded, "After what you didst night, what do you think? You insulted my best friend. I''ve spent the whole day sending her messages to apologize to her, but she still hasn''t replied. I''m going to treat her to a proper meal."


    Tori didn''t look the least bit sorry and instead said, "Rich people are too sensitive. I just said a few things, and she pped me. I didn''t even ask for an apology, but she dares to ignore you now? That''s ridiculous.¡±


    Ellie seethed. The truth was, Brenna had forgiven her the moment she received her apology. She just needed a reason to leave the house.


    She said, "That''s enough. When you see her again, mind what you say. She''s used to being treated like royalty. She has never been treated like that before."


    Tori crossed her arms and spoke with defiance. "How is that my fault? She sat too close to Thiago. Anyone would''ve taken it the wrong way. And she calls herself your best friend? So petty. She doesn''t act like someone from a rich and refined family at all."


    Ellie felt resigned. Tori was stubborn to the core, never willing to admit she was wrong


    With a sigh, she said, "Mom, please, just think before you talk next time."


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    She then left the house.


    Just outside the neighborhood, Thiago waited for Ellie in his car. The moment Ellie


    got inside his car, she startedining about her mother.


    After they arrived at a hotel, Thiago''s arm circled Ellie''s waist as they walked down the corridor.


    "I can''t deal with my mom. She''s clearly wrong, but she twists everything and mes everyone else 1 don''t even know how I am going to face Brenna from now on." Ellie let out a quiet sigh. I''ll have to treat her to a meal and properly apologize soon."


    Thiago smiled softly. "Brenna''s not the type to hold grudges. She knows you''re not your mom. I''m sure she won''t me you for any of it."


    Little did they know that a young couple had been trailing them. The man, Jordy, wore a smug grin as he kept his arm around hispanion''s waist.


    The woman beside him didn''t seem as enthusiastic. She wore a baseball cap and sunsses, her face hidden beneath carefully styled hair.


    As they trailed behind, something about the pair in front caught the woman''s attention. She lowered her sunsses just enough for a clearer view. Suddenly, she froze, and her eyes lit up with recognition. Without wasting a second, she began snapping photos of Thiago and Ellie with her phone.


    She even got a shot of them entering their hotel room.


    Once inside their own suite, the woman peeled off her disguise. Sylvie''s delicate features came into view. Jordy pushed Sylvie onto the bed and whispered, "Put the phone down. We''ve got better things to do." Sylvie shoved him away. "Did you see the woman in front of us just now? She looked like Brennal "No," Jordy mumbled while he kissed her. "You''ve got all my attention."


    Sylvie pushed her phone into his hands. "Look at this. Isn''t that Brenna? She''s in this hotel with some man."


    Jordy looked at the photos. ¡°Yeah. The woman seems to be Brenna. Anyway, stop wasting my time. Do you want the loan or not?"


    Albeit reluctantly, Sylvie set the phone aside. But even as sheplied, her mind reyed the times she had been humiliated because of Brenna. These photos would be perfect revenge.


    A cruel smile yed at her lips. She wondered how Ethan would feel if he learned that Brenna was in a hotel with another man.

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    Chapter 263 We Should


    Kick Someone Like Her O...


    Rosie was in her room, meticulously sorting throughpany documents. Having regained her ability to walk, she had visited her businesses and found a mountain of paperwork to deal with.


    The volume of work was overwhelming for just one office visit, so she had taken some files home.


    After checking her phone, Rosie saw the photos sent by Sylvie and immediately recognized that the woman was


    not Brenna.


    Not even a striking double would be enough to deceive anyone, and Brenna could still effortlessly shoot down


    ims.


    After countless attempts to bring down Brenna that had ended in failure, Rosie was well aware that this clumsy smear tactic would just end up blowing up in her face.


    Moreover, if Ethan found out about her involvement in the matter, he would sever ties with her for good. Having recently gotten a small portion of shares of the Harper Group from Luther, Rosie concentrated on acquiring additional shares of thepany to secure a position on the board.


    Once she became a voting shareholder, Brenna wouldn''t be able to target her easily.


    Now was not the moment for minor acts of vengeance against Brenna.


    Rosie responded briskly on her phone, "This won''t work. Stand down now."


    Exiting the bathroom, Sylvie frowned at Rosie''s message. "I thought Rosie despised Brenna the most," she said to Jordy. "Why let such a golden chance for a scandal slip through our fingers?"


    Sylvie was confused by Rosie''s response. So she decided to give Rosie a call.


    After a while, disappointed by Rosie''s justification, Sylvie ended the call in frustration and chose to go ahead with the n on her own.


    Haunted by previous embarrassments at Brenna''s hands, Sylvie picked the most incriminating photos and forwarded them to a friend.


    On Friday morning, Brenna was at Shirie University, her ponytail bobbing as she walked through the campus dressed in a striped shirt, jeans, and sneakers, blending seamlessly with the students there.


    Shirie University, renowned as one of the nation''s premier institutions, spanned thousands of acres adorned with well-manicuredndscapes. Towering trees lined serenekes, and scenic flower beds dotted the grounds. Leisurely cats sunbathed on paths, and ck swans sailed across waters with a noble aloofness.


    Intent on capturing the university vibe, Brenna took several photos with her phone, carefully arranging them


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    before uploading them to her social media.


    Watching the students, she reminisced about her own university days, which had been dominated by the need to earn tuition rather than enjoying such leisurely moments.


    Being invited to this esteemed campus felt like a second chance at the university life she had missed.


    Brenna''s eye-catching presence attracted plenty of attention, with a few male students going out of their way to pass by her, their eyes widening in open admiration.


    After getting directions from a friendly student, Brenna navigated her way to the administration building and headed for the principal''s office.


    Frank Lee, the principal, was a well-built, striking man in his forties, standing a solid six feet tall with not a hint of the weight that usually came with age.


    In his office, several young professors were all impressed upon seeing Brenna, who was beautiful and also had schrly achievements that outshone theirs.


    "Allow me to introduce the daughter of Professor Harper," Frank said. "She''s a graduate of MIT and..."


    By noon, Brenna left Frank''s office to find the campus alive with students heading to lunch.


    A group of girls discreetly scrutinized her physique,paring it to the photos on their phones.


    Their screens showed a buzzing post from the campus forum. "Petition to Stop the Morally Dubious Harper Daughter from Lecturing Here!"


    The post, online for only five hours, had already garnered tens of thousands of views and hundreds of


    "Is that her silhouette in the photos?" whispered one of the girls.


    "She''s wearing a different outfit, but the body shape, the wavy hair, and hair color are the same," another girl responded.


    "She seems so innocent, yet her private life is filled with scandals," added one.


    "Rich people sure know how to have their fun!"


    They followed Brenna at a distance, taking sneaky photos to upload them.


    "Take a look and judge for yourselves. Isn''t it obvious this is the exact same person?"


    The thread exploded with responses. Someone even posted a sharp, front-facing photo of Brenna.


    "The figure lines up exactly. It''s her without a doubt!" onement said.


    "How can we allow someone like her to lecture at our university?"


    "This campus is sacred ground! We should kick someone like her out!"


    "Exactly!"


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    Meanwhile, Brenna was clueless to the chaos on the university''s forum.


    But Sylvie kept a close eye on it all from her private ount, skillfully fanning the mes.


    In just one hour, she noticed thirty additional anti-Brenna threads on the forum.


    She then posted scandalous hotel photos of Thiago and Ellie.


    The forum blew up with hundreds ofments flooding in within ten minutes, while screenshots quickly made their way onto Twitter.

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    Chapter 264 Ethan''s Doubt


    That afternoon, Brenna was immersed in refining fighter jet blueprints at her studio when her phone buzzed with a string of notifications. She barely gave them a nce. Just another baseless rumor.


    These things neversted more than three days before slipping into obscurity. Why bother?


    Meanwhile, Thiago had immediately recognized the photos. They were stolen shots of him and Ellie walking into their hotel room.


    Phone in hand, he went to see Brenna, asking her about her opinion on the matter,


    "Just ignore it," Brenna said without looking up.


    There was an amused glint in her eyes. She had clearly recognized the figures in the photos. With a smirk, she remarked, "Your rtionship with Ellie is moving fast."


    Thiago chuckled but stayed on topic. "We should clear this up. You''re set to lecture at Shirie University next Monday. This could damage your reputation. These posts are all over social media and local forums. Someone''s definitely paying to spread them. If Mr. Mitchell sees them, he might misunderstand."


    Brenna looked at him, her expression calm. "If he can''t tell the difference between gossip and truth, then he''s


    not fit to be my boyfriend, or the CEO of the Mitchell Group."


    Brenna''s indifference to public opinion was as unshakable as ever. With this thought, Thiago sighed.


    After a while, he said, "I''ll exin everything to Mr. Mitchell myself."


    He then ced a call to Ethan.


    At Mitchell Group headquarters, Neville rushed into Ethan''s office, a folder in hand, reporting to Ethan about


    the viral posts.


    Without even looking up from the files he was reviewing, Ethan ordered sharply, "I''ve seen them. Tell IT to clean up every tform. I don''t want a single negative word about Brenna online."


    Neville nced at him, uneasy. The CEO who was alwaysposed now looked to be in a bad mood.


    Neville believed the woman in the photos looked a lot like Brenna. He was almost sure it was her.


    "Mr. Mitchell," he said carefully, "this looks like a misunderstanding. Maybe Miss Harper was just-"


    "That''s not her. Don''t make me repeat myself." Ethan red at him icily.


    Sweat soaked the back of Neville''s shirt. He had endured Ethan''s coldness for years. But he had never seen Ethan so angry like this.


    From the way Ethan examined the photos, it was clear he had recognized the man in them.


    ¡°Shall I..... handle this man for you?" Neville asked cautiously.


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    He had recognized the man, too. It was Thiago, Brenna''s business partner, the same man who had looked at Brenna affectionately at the Imperial Bar thest time.


    "Enough," said Ethan. The temperature in the room seemed to drop with his cold tone.


    Neville didn''t need to be told twice. "I''ll get every tform scrubbed clean right now."


    He had barely reached the door when Ethan''s phone rang.


    It was an unknown number. Ethan rejected the call without hesitation, his expression dark.


    Seeing that, Neville fled quickly.


    Meanwhile, Thiago stared at the screen, unsettled by the fact that Ethan had refused to answer his call.


    "Brenna, we know the truth. But love makes fools of us all. Mr. Mitchell cares about you. He might lose his grip when he sees those photos. If he misunderstands this... the consequences could be serious," he said, his voice low with concern.


    Brenna''s expression was unreadable. "There''s no need. If he''s quick to assume the worst, it only means he doesn''t trust me. And I don''t waste time exining myself to people who don''t trust me."


    Thiago dragged a hand through his hair in frustration. "Then I''ll go exin the matter to him in person."


    Without waiting for Brenna''s response, he turned and left the studio.


    He kept calling Ethan the whole drive. Every unanswered call tightened the knot in his chest.


    When he arrived at Ethan''spany, he was stopped by the receptionist. Without an appointment, he was


    unable to see Ethan.


    With no other option, Thiago made his way to the underground garage and waited by Ethan''s car.


    In his office, Ethan sat at his desk, stacks of unsigned contracts in front of him. But his eyes stayed fixed on


    one thing-the photo on his phone.


    The image burned into his mind.


    He recognized Thiago instantly. And the woman''s pale yellow dress looked like the one Brenna had worn before.


    Lately, even when Brenna brought him lunch or remembered how he liked his coffee, there was a subtle distance in the way she treated him.


    Unlike other women who clung to him with open desperation, Brenna''s love for him was too rational. And that made him wonder if she loved him at all.


    When his phone rang again with the same unknown number, Ethan finally picked up the call.


    "Who''s this?"


    "Mr. Mitchell, thank God you answered," Thiago said, his voice crackling with urgency. "It''s Thiago. We need to talk about those photos."


    "Speak," Ethan urged coldly.


    Thiago didn''t hesitate. "You''ve already seen the photos, right? That''s me in them."


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    Ethan''s chest tightened, and he said, "Are you calling me just to rub it in?"


    "Calm down and listen!" Thiago quickly said. "The woman in the photos is not Brenna; it''s Ellie."


    Rmended for your

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    Chapter 265 You Can Try


    Thiago''s face softened slightly. Despite Brenna''s apparent indifference to her reputation, he believed that her


    reputation was important since she was a young woman.


    Just then, the receptionist walked to him after receiving a phone call. She approached Thiago with a polite demeanor. "Mr. Moreno, the CEO has asked me to escort you to his office. Please follow me."


    Thiago nodded appreciatively. "Thank you."


    Just then, a loud voice echoed from the entrance. "Stop! Where do you think you are going? Thiago turned to find Jayceon striding toward him, his expression contorted with anger.


    Thiago knew the cause of Jayceon''s anger. His expression turned sardonic, a thin smile on his lips as he casually slid his hands into his pockets, unbothered by Jayceon''s fury.


    Jayceon lunged forward, aiming to seize Thiago by the cor and hurl him to the floor.


    But Thiago smoothly avoided his attack.


    Jayceon stumbled, missing his target.


    As tensions escted towards a confrontation, the receptionist hastily dialed the CEO''s office for intervention.


    Failing in his aggressive attempt, Jayceon felt his anger intensify. He rushed at Thiago again, only to miss as Thiago dodged his attack effortlessly.


    Thiago''s smile spread wider, a mocking gleam in his eyes. "Don''t you get it? You''re no match for me," he taunted, his gaze full of provocation.


    Jayceon adjusted his tie, frustration evident. "What''s the deal with you and Ellie?" With a dismissive tone, Thiago said, "Ellie isn''t under yourmand, nor do I answer to you. We don''t owe you any exnations."


    Meanwhile, in the top-floor office, Ethan had received the receptionist''s urgent call and descended to the first


    floor.


    Exiting the elevator, Ethan saw Jayceon stagger from a kick by Thiago, sliding across the slick floor.


    Ethan was momentarily surprised by Thiago''s fighting skills. But then, he quickly remembered how Thiago and Brenna had once defeated Jay and many of his henchmen.


    Dealing with someone like Jayceon seemed very easy for Thiago.


    Jayceon, his anger at its boiling point, was set on reiming Ellie by confronting Thiago, the one who had taken her from him.


    His clothes were torn, exposing the shirt beneath, while his face was swollen and bruised, making him appear rather pitiful.


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    He faced Thiago, defiance in his voice. "I won''t give up on winning Ellie back. I''m Patrick''s father. You''ll never take my ce!"


    Thiago straightened his tie calmly. "So what? I was there for Ellie when she needed someone the most. All her hardships back then? They were your doing. She hasn''t forgotten that."


    His words struck Jayceon harshly, leaving him speechless and overwhelmed, unable to muster aeback.


    The four receptionists nearby averted their gaze, steering clear of the escting tension. They were well aware of Jayceon''s close ties with the CEO and his frequent use of Ethan''s private elevator. They wouldn''t dare


    intervene in his matter.


    This time, it seemed they had stumbled upon a piece of drama they were never meant to know. Now, they feared that Ethan might silence them because of it.


    They recoiled, acting as though they hadn''t seen or heard a thing.


    Ethan approached Jayceon, taking him by the arm to stop him from lunging at Thiago again. "Enough. You are no match for him in a fight. Let''s talk upstairs." He then turned a stern look towards Thiago. "Come with us."


    Thiago entered the CEO''s private elevator alongside them, while a bruised Jayceon continued to stare him down


    with defiance.


    Earlier that day, Jayceon had stumbled upon a social media post. While others had guessed the woman to be Brenna, he had instantly recognized the true identities of the couple in the photo.


    He had been furious. Despite his efforts to win Ellie back with apologies and romantic overtures, he was crushed to discover she had moved on with another


    man.


    Unwilling to ept this, Jayceon was determined to make Thiago pay.


    His exploration had led him to Brenna''s studio, where he had found that Thiago was absent. He then tried Thiago''s home but to no avail. Finally, information led him to this location, and he came here as soon as possible, fueled by fury. "Ethan, let go of me! I will beat him to death!" Jayceon eximed. Thiago''sugh was low and mocking. "You can try. Killing me will only make Ellie detest you further. Remember how you broke her spirit, bit by bit, until she hated you? You say you love her, but your actions? You''ve constantly been seen with other women. Even her move back to Shirie changed nothing. Do you really think she''d forgive you?"


    "I brought those women with me only for business," Jayceon snapped back, his face red with anger. Thiago scoffed, "Really? Business? Then why doesn''t Mr. Mitchell have these kinds of ''business'' gatherings?" He then nced at Ethan, wondering why Ethan was friends with someone like Jayceon.


    Though Jayceon recognized his errors, he was not ready to concede. He believed his heart belonged solely to Ellie. He would never fall for anyone else.


    ¡°I can offer her a life of luxury. Can youpete with that?" Jayceon said.

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    Chapter 266 We''ll Get To The Bottom Of This


    Thiago''s eyes narrowed. Had Ellie not stopped him, the Russell family would have been facing an economic disaster by now.


    It wouldn''t be a challenge for him to bring down the Russell family given his abilities.


    Thiago considered Jayceon a total jerk. Despite his derations of love for Ellie, Jayceon constantly flirted with other women. Thiago had always found him unpleasant butcked the opportunity to confront him.


    When Jayceon entered Ethan''s office, he lost control and swung a punch at Thiago with all his strength.


    Thiago caught Jayceon''s fist without difficulty, his expression remainingposed. With the momentum, he swiftly pinned him to the floor.


    "I''m utterly tired of your antics. Do you understand the pain you''ve inflicted on Ellie?" With that, Thiagonded a solid punch on Jayceon''s face.


    From the sidelines, Ethan watched the scene with a furrowed brow, choosing not to intervene. He took a cigarette from his pocket and lit it.


    For him, the issues were unimportant since Brenna wasn''t the woman in the photos.


    He believed Thiago was giving Jayceon a well-deserved lesson for how he had mishandled his rtionship with


    Ellie.


    In no time, Jayceon was left bruised and battered.


    Ethan took onest drag from his cigarette, feeling it was time to interfere. If he didn''t, Jayceon''s handsome face might be ruined forever.


    "Enough," Ethan said, pulling Thiago back.


    He then assisted Jayceon to his feet and looked at him, hoping he would grasp the grim reality of his failed rtionship with Ellie.


    Upon returning home, Brenna sensed an unusually tense atmosphere. The servants were silent and cautious, casting nces her way.


    Julia walked over, looking worried. "Ms. Harper, are you okay?"


    Brenna was confused. "Why wouldn''t I be?"


    The other servants looked in Brenna''s direction, their expressions a mix of sympathy and anger.


    Chapter 266 We''ll Get To The Bottom Of This


    "What has happened? Is there trouble at home?" Brenna asked.


    "It''s the online rumors about you," Julia exined. "Your parents are deeply concerned and trying to trace the source. Your brothers are also addressing the allegations online."


    Brenna understood everything and replied casually, "Oh, I understand. But really, it''s not a big deal. Why is


    everyone so worried?"


    Julia looked shocked by Brenna''s casual dismissal. "This is serious. Your reputation and your prospects of marriage could be damaged because of this. If Mr. Mitchell sees those photos, he''ll surely get the wrong idea.


    How can you say it''s not a big deal?"


    Brenna offered a slight smile, remaining unfazed. "It''s okay. Rumors like these will fade away soon. Those who believe in me don''t need exnations, and for those who don''t, exnations wouldn''t make a difference


    anyway."


    After saying this, she ascended the stairs to find her mother, Giselle, seated on the couch in the small living room on the third floor with a grave expression, engaged in a phone call.


    "Frank, there''s always someone causing trouble on the school forum. The administrator allows those posts to linger to keep the forum lively. I usually overlook it, but now there are false rumors circting about Brenna''s personal life. This is nder and illegal. I need you to ensure that the administrator removes those posts and stops any further discussions of the matter."


    Giselle''s face burned with anger, and her tone was firm.


    Brenna approached and sat next to Giselle, smiling to reassure her mother that she was okay.


    However, from Giselle''s viewpoint, it appeared Brenna was masking her true feelings with that smile, already troubled by the rumors.


    Giselle took Brenna''s hand, offeringfort, while she continued her phone discussion. "We need to find where this all started and make sure those spreading lies face serious consequences. Brenna is an honorable young woman. She is passionate about her research and design work and has seen considerable sess. Envious people are trying to tarnish her reputation, and I will not stand for it."


    Frank responded in a serious tone, "I understand, and I''m on it. I have already sent a team to look into this and have summoned the forum administrator. We''ll deal with this promptly. Our institution is meant for education, not for fostering gossip."


    After giving a few more directives, Giselle ended the call, still visibly upset. She turned to Brenna. "No one can defame a Harper without facing consequences. Brenna, don''t worry. We''ll get to the bottom of this."


    Brenna felt reassured by Giselle''s firm stance. Her mother''s initial reaction was not to interrogate her or me her for the scandal but to stand by her.


    Brenna embraced Giselle gently. "Mom, it''s just harmless gossip. It''s not worth getting upset over."


    Giselle squeezed her hand and said, "My dear, don''t take your reputation lightly. It''s crucial for a woman in your position. There''s a schemer behind this, trying to destroy you. Imagine that if you go to the university on Monday, everyone thinks you''re someone who casually sleeps with men. That could ruin your work and affect your future profoundly."

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    Chapter 267 The Person


    Behind The Matter


    At that moment, Shepard stepped out of the bedroom, clutching his phone. His face was dark with dissatisfaction over how poorly his team had handled the task.


    He turned to Giselle and Brenna and began venting his frustration, saying, "How long has it been? I told them to take those posts down, but they failed. The posts are still everywhere! They make ridiculous sries but are useless. This is uneptable. I''ll fire them all soon!"


    With a chuckle, Brenna got to her feet and walked over to him. "Dad, don''t stress yourself. Things spread fast online. There are thousands of posts. It''s not so simple to clean all of them up."


    Unconvinced, Shepard snorted and said, ¡°They are just too ipetent. It''s a simple matter of blocking keywords. But they failed miserably. I will fire them soon. The Harper Group has no room for deadweight."


    Just then, Ernst and Dalton descended from upstairs. Their expressions betrayed guilt as they nced at Shepard and Giselle.


    Shepard didn''t need them to speak. He could tell they had failed at their tasks. "What good are the two of you? You can''t even deal with a minor issue. And you''re supposed to be running the Harper Group? I honestly doubt either of you is up to the task."


    Ernst''s brow tightened, feeling guilty. "Dad, I''ve already given orders. My team is on it. The PR department is pushing back against the rumors and has contacted the right people to start removing the posts. But it''s after work hours now. Everyone is glued to their phones, posting and sharing nonstop..."


    Shepard cut him off with a sharp wave. "Enough! Exnations won''t fix it. This mess proves you''re not capable of handling even the smallest crisis."


    Dalton looked just as overwhelmed. "Dad, please don''t get so worked up. We want to solve the problem, too, but things like this spread like wildfire online. We''re deleting the posts as fast as we can, but they''re popping back up just as quickly. Someone''s clearly behind this. Taking the posts down won''t be enough. We need to find out who''s behind this."


    Shepard red at both of his sons, frustration etched deep across his face. "Do you think I don''t know that? Stop talking and fix it."


    Brenna stepped in, hoping tofort Shepard, saying, "Dad, everything will be okay. If we just let it be, things will quiet down on their own in a few days."


    However, Dalton, used to being in the public eye, took matters like this seriously. ¡°Brenna, we can''t do that. Letting it go is the same as saying it''s true. If this keeps spreading, by the time you go to Shirie University on Monday, who knows how far it''ll have gone? The faculty. The students. Everyone might believe it. Your reputation will be ruined beyond repair."


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    Chapter 267 The Person Behind The Matter


    Giselle nodded solemnly, standing by Dalton''s point. "Exactly. I''ve already posted


    a statement on the school forum to push back against the rumors. Frank got in


    touch with the forum admin, too. Those posts on the forum have been taken down. But on social media and personal ounts, the matter is still spreading fast. I


    can''t stop any of that."


    The room turned quiet as everyone took in the weight of the situation. A few momentster, Dalton spoke up again. "Our PR team released a formal statement on the Harper Group''s official page. It''s pinned right at the top. But honestly, it hasn''t helped much. The issue is still escting."


    No one pointed fingers at Brenna. Everyone stayed focused on finding a way to solve this. That was when Brenna realized it-the Harper family cared about her deeply, unlike the Barrett family.


    "I''ll track down whoever''s behind this. Don''t worry." Brenna reached into her backpack, pulled out herptop, and opened it. Her fingers moved fast across the keys, line after line of code shing on the screen.


    Just then, Giselle''s phone rang. It was a call from the university. A second-year grad student had been identified as the one who had first posted the thread and photos.


    At the same time, Brenna had traced the IP address of the original post.


    Without wasting a second, the family headed straight to the graduate dorms at Shirie University.


    When they arrived, a crowd had already gathered outside one of the rooms. Mixed in with the students were several men dressed in ck suits.


    The Harpers pushed their way to the front. They quickly saw Ethan there.


    Brenna blinked in surprise. Deep down, she felt happy. Ethan had heard about the whole situation, and he hadn''t asked questions or doubted her. He had investigated the matter for her.


    Brenna looked at Ethan and asked, "What are you doing here?"


    Ethan turned his head, and his stern expression softened at once when he saw Brenna. ¡°If something hurts you, I''ll deal with it. Someone is spreading lies about you, and of course, I looked into the matter."


    Brenna nodded in acknowledgment, then turned her attention to the dorm room. There were only two beds inside. One of the girls had already been pulled aside for questioning.


    She looked terrified. Her face had gone pale, and her legs looked ready to give out. The sight of so many men in ck suits had shaken her. She regretted helping Sylvie for ten thousand dors the second she realized what she''d gotten into.


    Still, she stood her ground. "Who do you think you are? You can''t just barge into a girls'' dorm like this."


    Ethan stepped forward, held up his phone, and showed her the photos. "Where did you get these? Tell the truth, or we''re turning you over to the police."

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    Chapter 268 Sylvie Has Been Caught


    The girl looked up and locked eyes with a face so striking it seemed carved by divine hands. Ethan''s features could outshine any of the so-called heartthrobs at Shirie University, putting even the most celebrated


    handsome guys on campus to shame.


    She froze, caught off guard by how unreal he looked.


    Ethan snapped at her in a cold tone, "Speak!"


    His voice hit like a p. The girl flinched. When she met his gaze again, the icy rage in his eyes made her look


    away at once.


    Her eyes darted around the room, wide with panic. The men in suits formed a tight ring around her, their hard stares prickling her skin.


    "It was Sylvie Higgins! We went to undergrad together. She gave me ten grand to post those photos on the forum!" the girl, Liz Ruiz, finally admitted.


    Then, her gazended on Brenna. She recognized her in an instant.


    She thought Brenna was a lot more beautiful in person than in the photos.


    Brenna said nothing. Her eyes, cold and unflinching, locked on Liz. That look alone made Liz''s knees give out.


    Liz stumbled back a few steps, too shaken to speak. Surrounded by men in ck, she was convinced they


    meant to do her harm.


    "Please don''t hurt me! I''ll give the money back! I''ll delete everything!" she cried. Ethan stared at her, unblinking. After two seconds, he turned to leave.


    Just then, Neville stepped forward and spoke to Liz, his voice carrying the weight of authority. "What''s your


    name?"


    ¡°L¨CLiz Ruiz,¡± Liz stammered. "I am so sorry! I''ll delete the post right away!"


    Neville''s gaze remained cold and cutting. "Deleting it is not enough. You''ll post a public apology. You''ll make it clear the woman in those photos isn''t Miss Harper but someone who looks a lot like Miss Harper from the back." Liz nodded quickly. "Y-Yes! Of course! I''ll delete everything and post an apology! Just please, don''t hurt me! My family... We don''t have much money. My parents gave up everything so I could study here. I only agreed to do things for Sylvie for money. She gave me ten thousand. I swear, I''ll give the money back to her now!"


    Without further ado, she scrambled for her phone, her hands shaking so badly that she could barely keep a grip. Neville stepped back and watched as Liz pulled out her phone and did as he ordered.


    Special bonus over 40%


    17:04


    As Liz typed out the apology, Neville guided her word by word, making sure every sentence hit the mark.


    Brenna turned to leave and soon caught up with Ethan, who was already on the phone and instructing his men


    to locate Sylvie.


    Hearing hismands, Brenna felt warmth in her heart. "Thank you."


    Ethan nced at her and caught her faint smile. "You''re the one being attrked, and yet you can still smile."


    Brenna''s expression didn''t change. "They''re just words. They can''t hurt me."


    Ethan clenched his fist and looked down at her hand, resting just inches from his. After a brief pause, he reached out and gently hooked his finger around hers. "I won''t let anyone tarnish your name."


    When Brenna didn''t pull away, he gently took her whole hand in his. Her hand was so soft.


    So, this was what was like to hold Brenna''s hand.


    His heart beat faster, a quiet thrum of happiness building in his chest.


    Ethan stole a nce at Brenna. Her face remained as calm as ever.


    But she didn''t seem to resist him holding her hand.


    The group following them kept a respectful distance, careful not to intrude.


    Still, some couldn''t hide their amusement. Watching their usually cold boss turn timid over holding his girlfriend''s hand was indeed amusing.


    *As they stepped out of the university gates, Ethan''s team reported in. They had found out where Sylvie was.


    She was supposedly meeting with reporters in a park to share some "explosive news".


    When Ethan, Brenna, and the others arrived, the ce was buzzing. Families wandered with strollers. Dogs tugged on their leashes. But there was no sign of Sylvie.


    "Split up and find her," Ethan ordered his people. He and Brenna also searched for Sylvie.


    It didn''t take long. Soon, they found Sylvie.


    A few reporters stood close to Sylvie, exchanging contact info with her.


    The moment Sylvie spotted Ethan and Brenna, she turned sharply to run. But every path out was already sealed off by Ethan''s men.


    Panic hit her like a wave. She looked at Brenna and Ethan and noticed the lethal intent in their eyes.


    Brenna walked over calmly. "Miss Higgins, I see your family''s problem hasn''t kept you busy enough. You still have time to target me."


    Sylvie''s fingers flew over her phone, trying to erase something in a frenzy. Images of Brenna, clearly edited, caught mid-motion in scenes meant to scandalize.


    Before she could delete all the photos, a hand reached out and snatched the phone from her grip.

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    Chapter 269 Is This Really Necessary


    Brenna cast a fleeting nce at the phone screen, which disyed a grotesque image: her face had been crudely superimposed onto the body of a nude woman, entwined with a disgustingly obese, bald man.


    Ethan''s face clouded over as he scrolled through more of these edited photos. A chilling aura enveloped him, and when his eyes met Sylvie''s, they shed a deadly warning.


    The audacity Sylvie had to ruin his girlfriend''s reputation was too much.


    At Ethan''s silentmand, his bodyguards sprang into action, aggressively grabbing Sylvie. One guard delivered a brutal kick behind her knees, forcing her to the ground.


    Sylvie hit the grass with a heavy thud, struggling against the guards furiously. In a bold defiance, she red at


    Ethan and Brenna.


    So what was the worst they could do to her? Would they beat her or kill her?


    Ethan''s response was chillingly calm, his voice a stark contrast to the dangerous glint in his eyes. "Impressive audacity," he remarked coldly. "To target my woman so cruelly."


    At that moment, Ernst and Dalton also arrived. Their faces contorted with anger as they viewed the offending photos. They then looked at Sylvie with dark expressions.


    Dalton moved swiftly towards her, his boot connecting sharply with her side. "Is there no shame in you at all?" he eximed angrily.


    Pinned down by the sturdy hands of two bodyguards, Sylvie trembled under the kick, feeling as though a fiery imprint of the boot was etched into her shoulder, sending shards of pain radiating through her frame.


    Yet, even from the ground, she managed to spit out her retort, saying, "It''s merely a few photos, Dalton. They aren''t even posted. What has got you so enraged? Are you intent on kicking me to death? Beware, that could send you straight to prison!"


    With ruthless aggression, Daltonnded another fierce kick on Sylvie.


    "Ah!" The sound of something snapping was unmistakable, and a wave of unbearable pain washed over Sylvie, suggesting a possible fracture in her arm. Sylvie was shocked by Dalton''s brutality. Despite his fame and the adoration he received as a celebrity, he disyed a disturbing ruthlessness. She was seething with anger; to her, the idea of a man hitting a woman was uneptable.


    Yet Dalton had hit her with brutal force.


    "How could you hit me like that?" Sylvie screamed, her voiceced with fury.


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    < Chapter 269 Is This Really Necessary


    Dalton''s response was ruthless. He pped Sylvie several times, each one delivered with such force that Sylvie''s face quickly turned a deep shade of red, her lip splitting and oozing blood.


    Through her tears, Sylvie''s defiance shone. "I just edited some photos! Is this really necessary?"


    Dalton''sugh was scornful and full of contempt. "You think the Harper family will let someone like you


    defame them without consequence? It appears the Higgins family has been having it too easytely."


    Sylvie''s false bravado melted away into desperation. "What do you want from me?" she asked, her voice quivering. "My family has suffered massive losses already! We''re so financially strapped that banks refuse to


    lend us a dime..."


    Just then, her eyes went wide as she suddenly realized something. She turned to Dalton. "That is the Harper family''s doing, isn''t it?"


    With the ferocity of a beast backed into a corner, she snapped, "When did my family ever cross the Harper family? Why are you treating us like this? Rosie and I, we''re still friends. How could you act with such ruthlessness against my family?"


    Her frenzied eyes darted across Brenna''s defenders. As realization dawned on her that each of these men held Brenna in high regard, a venomous jealousy twisted in her chest. "Are you seriously creating all this drama over a few photos of Brenna? She is nothing! Why are you making a fuss over this?"


    Brenna raised an eyebrow and approached her calmly. "Really? I am nothing? Then exin why you''re so


    intent on targeting me."


    Her voice lowered, simmering with controlled anger. ¡°When I came back, you, along with Vivian and Rosie, schemed to humiliate me at that restaurant. What did I ever do to you to warrant such hostility?"


    Brenna cast a cold, contemptuous nce at Sylvie''s bruised and swollen face. "Exin yourself. I did nothing to hurt you, yet you kept helping Rosie tear me down."


    Sylvie, ever defiant, scoffed, "Dredging up the past now? Sure, I made a few harsh remarks about you at that time, but your response was to degrade me into kneeling. Don''t you think that was a bit much?"


    Brenna raised an eyebrow. "A few harsh remarks?" she echoed with a hint of irony. "Have you really forgotten what you said? I had just left the Barrett family at that time. I didn''t have any money, and there you were, ordering the priciest items on the menu just to humiliate me. You plotted against me maliciously, and now, youin about the fact that I struck back?"


    Sylvie''s voice rose with each word, her frustration palpable. "I settled that bill in the end, didn''t I? Why are you still holding onto this? I''ve already apologized to you, yet here you are, tearing down my family''s business over some petty squabble! My family is innocent in this!"


    Her voice cracked as she yelled, "What right do you have to destroy my family?"


    Ethan, seeing that Sylvie felt no remorse about her actions, gave a slight nod to the bodyguards. They swiftly pinned Sylvie to the ground and began to beat her.


    Bruises bloomed across Sylvie''s skin. After a while, she cried out for mercy amid the blows, pleading, "Please, stop! I admit it''s my fault. I''m truly sorry."


    Brenna watched the scene with a detached expression. "I''m not involved in the matter. The Higgins family isn''t

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    Chapter 270 My Life Will Be Over If I Go To Jail-


    Sylvie still felt the sting of injustice. Though Brenna insisted the Higgins family wasn''t worth her time, their


    billions in losses told a different story.


    She said to Brenna, "I only wanted to embarrass you, but you are destroying my entire family. Don''t you think that''s going too far? This was just a petty spat between us, but you have escted it into full-blown corporate


    warfare!"


    Ernst stood off to the side, his gaze grim. Sylvie, who had oncee to their home as Rosie''s friend, was now showing her true colors. She was bent on scheming against Brenna without an ounce of remorse.


    The urge to help Sylvie vanished instantly as he slowly shook his head.


    Ethan''s voice turned cold. "You are from the Higgins family. You carry the weight of your family''s name. Their


    downfall is a direct result of your actions."


    Sylvie''s eyes red with an unmistakable sense of betrayal. "So now you are ming me for everything? You don''t have the right to say something like that to me! You treated Rosie well before, but the moment Brenna showed up, you turned your back on her! Rosie has always seen you as her future husband! What you did was disappointing!"


    She shot to her feet, a fierce finger pointing directly at Brenna. "What makes her so special? How is Rosie beneath her? She stole you from Rosie, and to do it, she framed Rosie! And now you are letting this snake slither into your life? One day, she will sink her venomous fangs into you, and you will regret it! Rosie loved you deeply for years! She is the one who truly deserves your love!"


    "Enough. That is none of your business," Ethan said in a stern tone. "Rosie was always like a sister to me. You are the one who twisted it into something it wasn''t."


    "Liar!" Sylvie hissed, eyes aze. "You are just another unfaithful man chasing after the next shiny thing! Don''t pretend otherwise!"


    Her lips curled into a venomous smirk. "Those hotel photos are all over the inte now. Do you enjoy being cheated on, Ethan? You don''t even care about that? I can''t believe you are so foolish."


    Ethan''s hand suddenly cracked across Sylvie''s cheek, the brutal force of the p so sharp that one of her


    mrs flew out.


    "You know damn well that woman in the photos wasn''t Brenna," Ethan said, his voice dangerously calm. "Say something like that again, and today will be yourst day on earth."


    The bodyguards didn''t need a single order. Their fists and boots crashed down on Sylvie''s crumpled form with chilling precision.


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    < Chapter 270 My Life Will Be Over If I Go To Jail


    Nearby reporters winced at every sickening blow. Whatever exclusive scandal Sylvie had promised them earlier suddenly wasn''t worth the price.


    They backed away, silenced by the cold professionalism of elite punishment, not daring to utter a word.


    Even if Sylvie were beaten to death today, they would pretend that they had seen nothing.


    If this was how the powerful dealt with a women, what fate awaited men ho dared to cross them?


    The thought sent chills down the reporters'' spines, making them wish they had nevere and witnessed this.


    The bodyguards'' watchful presence had turned the exit into a wall, they were unable to leave.


    Only when Sylvie stopped moving did the beatinge to an end, leaving her bruised body sprawled across the


    cold floor.


    Her lips moved without sound, eyes dulling, zing over like frost-covered ss.


    Brenna strolled over and nudged her with the tip of her shoe. Sylvie managed to crack her eyes open butcked the strength to dodge.


    ¡°Defamation carries prison time,¡± Brenna said, looking at Sylvie. "Since you''re so eager for it, I will let you go to


    prison."


    Sylvie''s bloodied fingers wed at the space between them, failing to reach the hem of Brenna''s dress. "Please don''t..." The words bubbled out through bloodied lips. "I''ll... I''ll do anything you want... Just don''t call the police. My life will be over if I go to jail."


    Life will


    But Brenna didn''t spare her a nce. Her gaze stayed locked on her phone screen. Surprisingly, Rosie''s name was nowhere to be found in Sylvie''s damning messages. It seemed Rosie was uncharacteristically cautious this


    time.


    "I gave you many chances to redeem yourself," Brenna said coldly, her voice sharp. "But you threw them all away and schemed against me time and time again. Did you honestly think I wouldn''t find out about your schemes with Rosie? That little stunt with sending her to Jay... Tell me, Sylvie, how many years do you think the courts will hand you when they tally up all your crimes?"


    Ethan''s fingers moved swiftly over his phone screen, dialing the police with calm precision.


    Neville motioned for the reporters to step closer, herding them like sheep into a quieter corner.


    "Well?" he asked sharply. "What did you just see?"


    The reporters shook their heads repeatedly. The one in sses gulped audibly before speaking. "Nothing at all, sir. Sylvie reached out to us..."


    He paused, eyes flicking nervously to Neville''s expressionless face, searching for a signal. When none came, he continued, "She offered us money and showed uspromising photos of Miss Harper in bed. She wanted us to publish them to ruin her reputation. But we are professional journalists; we would never be part of something so hical. We n to expose Sylvie''s edited photo scheme. We''ll testify and give full statements to the police about her attempts at fabrication..."


    Neville''s lips curled with approval as the reporters began tripping over themselves to offer more dramatic testimonies. He chimed in now and then, subtly steering their story with precision.


    By the time the police cars pulled up, the officers didn''t say a word as they took Sylvie''s battered body away. Her shallow breaths were the only sign that life still flickered inside her.


    "Thank you," Brenna said softly, looking at Ethan with a warm smile. "I couldn''t have done it without you today."


    You have unlocked exclusive limite

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    Chapter 271 Brenna''s Irresistible Charm-


    Shirie University had mapped out Brenna''s teaching schedule for Tuesday afternoons-four consecutive weekly sessions stretching over two months.


    On that particr Tuesday, Brenna finished her lunch early and arrived at her temporary campus office by one in the afternoon. The university had assigned her a spot in the Mechanical Engineering Department''s graduate


    faculty area.


    The office was mostly deserted since professors were often tied up with graduate supervision. Only Brenna, the academic advisor, and a handful of lecturers typically frequented the space.


    For the lecture this time, Brenna had brought along Tommy, who was busy arranging automotive models at a


    table.


    As Brenna prepared her teaching materials, an unexpected knock broke the tranquil atmosphere in the office. Tommy opened the door to find several sharply dressed male students waiting outside. They looked to be in their mid-twenties, likely graduate students from Shirie University.


    The young men stood nervously, hands hidden behind their backs. When they saw Tommy instead of Brenna, they peered past him into the office. "Excuse me, is Professor Harper avable?" one asked, his voice tinged with anticipation.


    Tommy nced back at Brenna, who remained focused on her work, not bothering to look up.


    Understanding Brenna didn''t wish to be disturbed, Tommy politely replied, ¡°Professor Harper is preparing for ss. She doesn''t have time to see you all right now."


    The students wore expressions of disappointment but maintained their respect. One of them stepped forward, revealing the bouquet he had been concealing behind his body. "Would you mind passing this to Professor Harper?"


    The other three students followed suit, presenting their own floral arrangements and cing them in Tommy''s arms. "Please deliver these to her as well."


    The first student added, "You must be Professor Harper''s assistant! It''s a pleasure to meet you."


    Tommy nodded politely. "I''m Professor Harper''s assistant and the head of her mechanical design studio. Are you all graduate students in the Mechanical Engineering Department? If you''re interested in joining our team,


    feel free to reach out to me."


    The students'' faces lit up with unbridled enthusiasm. "Yes, we''re mechanical engineering grad students," a third-year student responded eagerly. "I''ll be graduating next year! I''ll prepare my resume right away!"


    He exchanged looks with hispanions, their excitement palpable.


    After the students had left, Tommy shut the door and ced the floral bouquets beside Brenna''s workspace


    "From your admirers," he said, returning to his model cars with a teasing smirk. "Your poprity never fades. Should you worry about Mr. Mitchell getting a little jealous?"


    Brenna shot him a frosty look. "He''s got an entire office full of beautiful female secretaries. I didn''t even say anything about that."


    Though the sight of those secretaries hadn''t initially bothered her, the memory of it now stirred an unfamiliar


    difort within her.


    Tommy''s eyebrows shot up in surprise-this was the first time he had seen Brenna getting upset over something like that.


    A quiet chuckle escaped him. Was the usually cold and reserved Brenna finally developing feelings for someone?


    Their conversation was soon interrupted by another series of knocks.


    "Is Professor Harper avable?" called out a male voice.


    Tommy opened the door to find arger group this time-about eight students, clutching flowers and gift boxes. Their eager faces leaned in, hoping for a glimpse of Brenna.


    A particrly striking girl stood on her toes, catching sight of Brenna''s profile with palpable excitement. "Does Professor Harper have a moment?" she asked.


    The entire group''s eyes lit up with anticipation as they peeked inside the office.


    Tommy kept his professionalposure. "Professor Harper is busy at the moment."


    The lead girl''s expression dimmed slightly at the rejection. "I''m a second-year graduate student in the Mechanical Engineering Department, and I''m a big fan of Professor Harper. I''ve seen clips of her lectures at the Harper Group, and they were amazing. Is there any chance I could meet her? Please?"


    Tommy was at a loss for words. First, it had been a group of boys, and now, even the girls were here. Brenna''s charm was indeed remarkable.


    Tommy said, "I''m sorry, everyone, but Professor Harper needs to prepare for ss now. If you have anything you''d like to share with her, please wait until after ss, or you can write a note now. I''ll make sure she gets it."


    The young men and women exchanged nces. Though a bit disappointed, they didn''t press the issue. Instead, they politely handed their gifts to Tommy to pass them to Brenna, with one even offering a resume.


    Tommy thought this was the end of it, but within just ten minutes, several more groups showed up. Before long, the office table was overflowing with a stunning array of gifts and flowers.


    When it was time for ss, Brenna entered the ssroom and noticed the lectern was covered with gifts. The students below were enthusiastic, seemingly unfazed by the posts in the school forum before. Even Brenna couldn''t quite grasp why. Tommy, who was quite the looker himself, followed Brenna to enter the ssroom, holding the car models, which sparked a chorus of excited gasps.

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    Chapter 272 Aren''t You


    Afraid Of Flipping-The Car


    The lecture hall, meant for three hundred students, was bursting at the seams. Makeshift stools cluttered the aisles, and clusters of listeners jammed every doorway.


    Anticipation was written on every face.


    Brenna''s usual icy calm gave way to an unusual half-smile. Despite the inmmatory forum threads that had spread like wildfire, the students'' genuine hunger for knowledge burned hotter than campus gossip.


    Brenna''s lips curled in fleeting amusement before she began the lecture, voice calm.


    At half past five in the afternoon, a wave of students surged toward Brenna after the lecture, arms full of flowers, choctes, embossed resumes, and love letters. Brenna had to put in real effort just to free herself from the eager crowd.


    At the parking lot, she found her car nearly swallowed by gifts and letters.


    Tommy stood by the overloaded vehicle, looking defeated. When the trunk refused to shut no matter how he wrestled with it, he called for a cargo van. Back at the Harper family''s residence, Tommy gestured toward the mountain of presents. "What are you going to do with these?" he asked Brenna.


    "I''m not sure," Brenna said, looking at the gifts. "They reflect the students'' sincerity. Check and store the gifts. Arrange and disy the flowers in the house. Threw away the love letters. And I''ll give you the resumes soon." Staff appeared immediately. Tommy coordinated the sorting, guiding the servants through the process.


    When Julia handed Brenna the thick stack of love letters, Brenna lookedpletely exasperated. She truly couldn''t tell whether these grad students hade for her lectures or for something else.


    "Shred them," she said tly.


    Julia grinned. "You''re not even curious? Don''t you want to read them before that?" Saturday came quickly-race day.


    Brenna joined Ethan at Shirie International Circuit, a top-tier racingplex sprawling across the city''s southwestern edge. It featured several specialized tracks and state-of-the-art equipment that met the highest global standards.


    The rare weekend race had drawn crowds of motorsport fans. Some people even carried binocrs, scanning the massive venue for the best views.


    17.04


    As soon as Ethan''s leather shoes touched the asphalt, his phone rang. He wedged it between his ear and shoulder while pulling Brenna''s racing suit from the trunk.


    His grip tightened on the phone. ¡°Fix this before Monday, or you can pack up your things and leave," he said,


    voice cold.


    Once he hung up, Brenna asked, "Something wrong?"


    ¡°Just a small issue at one of the branches. Nothing serious," Ethan replied.


    Brenna didn''t give it much thought, but Ethan''s instincts red. The Ward family held sway in the region of that branch. For a problem to suddenly erupt there, today of all days, was too much of a coincidence


    At the prep hall entrance, Ethan handed Brenna a document bag. "I need to take care of it. Wait here."


    Brenna nodded and stepped inside alone.


    Heads turned the moment she walked in. She immediately spotted Jade in the center of a small crowd, Isabe hovering nearby with a ttering smile.


    Jade smiled faintly at her circle. "Can''t tell if she''s brave or foolish. She actually came. Miss Barrett, if you pull this off, you will get what you want."


    Then she grabbed her handbag and left the group with a light tone. "I need to go talk strategy with my co-


    driver."


    The others smiled politely as Jade walked away.


    Brenna recognized the faces-Isabe, of course, but also Rosie, now walking again, her friend Vivian, and a few other socialites she only vaguely remembered. Rosie led the group toward Brenna, with the rest tagging along like satellites. Brenna didn''t move.


    "You''re actually racing?" Rosie asked, clearly surprised. Brenna''s equestrian sess had already changed her perspective, but she hadn''t expected Brenna to know how to race.


    Brenna settled into the leather chair, her expression cold. From her handbag, she retrieved a tablet, its glow casting sharp light across her features as she scanned Thiago''s track analytics and race strategy.


    Rosie slipped into the seat beside her, uninvited. "When did you pick up this particr skill?" she asked, her curiosity evident.


    She gave Brenna a once-over-slim frame, smooth hands, not a trace of wear or callus. Brenna didn''t have the hands of a seasoned racer.


    The thought of Brenna crashing sparked a flicker of thrill Rosie barely managed to hide.


    "Racing isn''t like horseback riding," Rosie said with sudden gravity. "One wrong move, and the car won''t just stop-it''ll tear itself apart, maybe take you with it."


    Isabe also said to Brenna, her voice sharp, "You always need the spotlight. Aren''t you afraid of flipping the


    car?"


    Brenna looked up. "Yet, you are also here."


    17.04


    "I''m just here to watch the race," Isabe said. "Having a license doesn''t make you a racer. Those tracks out there-gravel, mud, uneven terrain-they''ll eat amateurs alive. With your basic skills, you won''tst ap,"

 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 273

    Chapter 273 You Monster!


    Vivian''s hostility toward Brenna had deepened sharply, especially after Sylvie''s recent arrest and imprisonment.


    The legal team had told her that Sylvie faced a mandatory minimum sentence of


    five years.


    The Higgins family had pulled every string they could, hiring topwyers and leveraging theirwork, but bail


    had been denied.


    For a powerful family like the Higgins to fail sopletely pointed to outside interference. Vivian was convinced the Harper and Mitchell families were behind the matter.


    Without them, Sylvie would have been facing a defamation suit at most, not a prison sentence. But now, she


    couldn''t even get bailed.


    Vivian''s eyes red with hatred as she spat, "You actually think showing up in a million-dor supercar makes you fit to race?"


    Brenna didn''t bother responding. Lowering herself to Vivian''s level would be degrading for her. Her focus. stayed on the tablet, and she calmly reviewed Thiago''s strategy notes.


    Vivian''s fury simmered at her indifferent demeanor. "That car and your billionaire boyfriend won''t carry you through the race," she snapped. "You''ve got no real skill. You''re signing your own death warrant."


    Rosie gave a slight nod, clearly agreeing. "This isn''t a joyride, Brenna," she said, feigning concern. "If something happened to you, Ethan would be crushed."


    There was a calcted softness in her tone, but the grin tugging at her lips gave her true emotions away.


    Brenna finally turned to face her. "How touching. Since when do you care?"


    Rosie''s expression turned serious. "We''re family. I am concerned about you. Professional racing demands a well-prepared team-navigators meticulously analyzing the courses, strategists mapping out every move, and mechanics on standby for any emergencies. Surely you understand these basic requirements? Yet here you are,


    alone."


    The surrounding young women burst into mockingughter.


    Vivian, for her part, had no interest in Brenna and Rosie''s family drama. Her thoughts were consumed by her jailed best friend. "Why bother warning her?" she said bitterly. "With that ego and attitude, she''s better off gone. If the track takes her out, that will save us all the trouble."


    She scoffed, "All Sylvie did was say a few words, and she ended up behind bars. You are really petty for doing


    that to her, Brenna."


    Brenna''s eyes lifted, her tone razor-sharp. "You''re right-I am pathetically petty. I don''t let things slide. Anyone who crosses me will pay."


    The look she gave Vivian was cold enough to freeze blood. Instinctively, Vivian stepped back.


    1705


    < Chapter 273 You Monster!


    But when Vivian realized she had flinched, anger surged again. She lunged forward, hand raised to strike


    Brenna.


    Brenna lifted her foot with casual ease and drove it into Vivian''s stomach


    Vivian hadn''t seen iting. She was kicked to the floor in an instant


    "You''ve got some nerve!" Vivian snapped, face flushed.


    Brenna cocked a brow, the corner of her mouth curling up. "Do you want to have a fight with me? Be my guest"


    Rosie jumped in before things got worse, helping Vivian to her feet. "Don''t be an idiot. She''s ttened whole gangs without breaking a sweat. Just leave now."


    Vivian, well aware of Brenna''s fearsome rep, bit back her pride and backed down reluctantly, leaving


    Isabe, however, wasn''t done poking the bear. She didn''t dare cross the invisible line into outright aggression, but her words were knives wrapped in silk. "So quick to throw punches, aren''t you? Always the first to lose your cool. It''s fortunate the Barretts kicked you out. Otherwise, they might face a lot of trouble because of you."


    The promise of Jade''s generous rewards still echoed sweetly in Isabe''s mind; a lucrative business deal dangled before her, if only she could rattle Brenna''s cage enough to throw her off her game before the race.


    She continued, "With that temper of yours, it''s no wonder you''re friendless. Is this the renowned civility of the member of the Harper family?"


    Noticing Brenna''s intense focus on the tablet, Isabe slipped into the seat Rosie had just vacated. A quick nce revealed a wealth of racecourse analytics.


    She snatched the device from Brenna''s grasp. "I am talking to you. Are you even listening to me?"


    She believed disrupting Brenna''s meticulous preparations could lead to disastrous mistakes on the track, a service Jade would undoubtedly appreciate.


    Brenna''s icy re met Isabe''s as she reached for her tablet.


    Isabe quickly switched the tablet to her other hand, not letting Brenna get it.


    Brenna''s fingers mped around Isabe''s wrist like a steel trap.


    Pain shot through Isabe, and tears welled up in her eyes from the vise-like grip, yet she stubbornly held onto


    the tablet.


    "Give it back to me!" Brenna said coldly.


    Isabe was convinced that the searing pain broke her wrist.


    With a whimper, she returned the tablet to Brenna. "You monster! You''ve broken my bones!"


    She cradled her wrist, tears sparkling on her cheeks as she felt she couldn''t lift her hand.

 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 274

    Chapter 274 The Better


    Match For Ethan


    Isabe had caught a glimpse of the tablet''s contents-detailed racecourse analytics that showcased Brenna''s deep grasp of rally mechanics. So, Brenna knew a lot about racing; she had just kept quiet about it.


    Doubt gnawed at Isabe''s insides. Was Brenna merely Ethan''s pamperedpanion or a legitimate contender?


    She believed Brenna was the former. Brenna was already exceptional in a lot of areas; she couldn''t possibly also


    know how to race. It just seemed impossible.


    Racing required specialized skills, not something anyone could simply pick up.


    "Keep up the act," Isabe sneered at Brenna. "We''ll see how you handle it when you lose control of your car."


    She believed Brenna was just putting on an act. "I don''t believe you know how to race."


    Seeing the participant list on the disy board, Isabe said, "Your name is missing." She grinned. "You didn''t even sign up for the race. Why are you still putting on an act?"


    Brenna''s eyes darted to her registered alias, "Night", on the screen. "Could you please stay away from me?" she said to Isabe, tired of the incessant taunts.


    Isabe''sughter echoed, drawing Vivian and Rosie back. They all sat near Brenna. Rosie had grown more astute. Unlike Isabe, she didn''t mock Brenna carelessly. Instead, she talked to her like a close friend, subtly probing for information.


    Rosie said, "What Isabe said was harsh, but she is not wrong. Do you really know how to race, Brenna? Racing is a world apart from regr driving. A race car is much more agile and tougher to control than a family car. You shouldn''t risk it just for pride."


    Though she said that, she secretly hoped Brenna would insist on racing out of pride and got into a car crash.


    With a sinister glint in her eyes, she stared at Brenna, but Brenna''s expression remained cold. Rosie shook Brenna''s arm. "Are you even listening to me?"


    Brenna recognized Rosie''s ploy. Without looking at her, she replied, "I''ve raced before, so you don''t need to worry. There''s no one out there who can beat me in racing now."


    Isabe couldn''t help but snicker, and even Vivian scoffed derisively.


    Vivian leaned in, a smirk on her face. "Interesting. You can boast all you want, but


    I just saw Mr. Mitchell talking with another woman."


    Brenna nced up. "Another woman? Who?"


    Vivian''s smirk widened. "So you''re pretending to be indifferent about Mr. Mitchell, but you care more about him


    17:05


    than you let on. The Harpers are powerful, butpared to the Hewitts, your family''s influence pales. Miss Hewitt is the better match for Mr. Mitchell. She''s the one who truly deserves to stand beside him.


    Arrogance dripped from every word Vivian spoke, her expression tinged with mockery.


    Brenna processed this revtion. "Ethan is with Jade now?"


    Vivian raised an eyebrow. "Obviously. What do you expect? Do you really think you''re irreceable to Mr. Mitchell? Jade outshines you in every aspect-heritage, achievements, everything."


    She then thrust her phone forward, showing Brenna a photo of Ethan and Jade standing together near the floor


    -to-ceiling windows.


    But they maintained a respectful distance in the public setting.


    Brenna looked away from the phone, unbothered. Even as his girlfriend, she couldn''t dictate whom Ethan spoke


    1. to.


    Vivian frowned at her calm demeanor. "Your man might just walk away from you. Doesn''t that concern you?"


    "They were just having a conversation. Hardly worth worrying about." Brenna returned her focus to the tablet, refusing to take the bait.


    Vivian said, "Mr. Mitchell smiled at her! Didn''t you notice? He smiled at Miss Hewitt. That could be a sign of affection. You''re about to be tossed aside!"


    Isabe couldn''t fathom why Brenna remainedposed despite Vivian''s jabs. Then, a sudden realization


    struck her.


    "Brenna''s indifference could only mean one thing-she didn''t genuinely love Ethan; she was just together with


    him for his money.


    That had to be it. This revtion demanded action. Isabe believed she needed to expose Brenna''s gold- digging intentions to Ethan, ensuring he saw her true colors.


    As Isabe stood to leave, Brenna unexpectedly pulled out her phone. A few tapster, she held up a photograph for Isabe to see.


    A rare, subtle smile curved her lips. "Take a look at this."


    Isabe recognized the image immediately-Denis intimately embracing a famous actress in a shadowy parking


    garage.


    Brenna said, ¡°Denis has gifted you properties and cars and even helped your brother find a job. I thought wedding bells were in your future. But this has changed everything. Between you and this famous actress, who''s really closer to bing Denis'' wife?"


    Isabe''s face went pale. Jobless and frantic to cling to her privileged lifestyle, she spat through clenched teeth, ¡°You''re mistaken! That''s not Denis in the photo!"

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    Chapter 275 We Meet Again


    Rosie scanned the participant list once more, her heart sinking as she confirmed that Brenna''s name was


    nowhere to be found. Then, like a beacon in the fog, another familiar name caught her eye-Night.


    She squinted at the alias, then shot a nce at Brenna. "You signed up as ''Night''?"


    Brenna kept her focus glued to her tablet. "Is there an issue with that?"


    Rosie''s face turned grim. Every racer knew about Night, the legendary racer. Rosie believed Jade probably didn''t


    know that Brenna was Night.


    "How... How are you this ridiculously talented?" Rosie looked at Brenna. "You are exceptional in so many fields.


    Are you even human?"


    The very thought of someone excelling in so many fields left her feeling dizzy.


    Without wasting another moment, Rosie rushed to find Jade. This newfound knowledge of Brenna could turn


    the tide of the race.


    Isabe vaguely recalled the alias from Brenna''s equestrian triumph, but she was no expert on the glittering world of racing and had no clue what the name "Night" signified to racers.


    She nced at Rosie, confusion knitting her brow, wondering why Rosie seemed so on edge.


    She continued to taunt Brenna, "Real racers have custom-built race cars. Do you even have one? Surely you''re not using the expensive car you always drive, right? That''s augh. Price tags don''t win races. You should be worried that your car might get you killed in the race."


    Despite her bravado, Isabe was already surreptitiously scrolling through her phone, searching for news about Denis dating the starlet.


    Vivian''s demeanor shifted like the wind when she found out that Brenna was Night. Her earlier mockery evaporated, reced by the hope that a worthypetitor would rise to challenge Brenna.


    Rosie found Jade deep in a heated exchange with Ethan at the track


    management office. Ethan''s expression was stormy, his re sharp enough to cut ss as he spat out a single word, "Nope."


    He tossed a set of keys to Neville. "Give the keys to Brenna."


    Neville took the keys and made his exit.


    "I won''t lend you my car," Ethan said to Jade coldly. "Find another solution."


    Jade''s dazzling smile didn''t falter. "After all I did for you in Norview, this is how you repay me? My car is broken. Just do me a favor and lend me your car."


    She raised an eyebrow. "Brenna''s just an amateur chasing attention and fun. I''m different. If you let me win, I''ll handle a dozen projects for you. How about it? Sounds like a generous deal, right?"


    Chapter 275 We Meet Again


    Rosie lingered at the door, not daring to step inside, worried that Ethan would discover her covert alliance with Jade. She pulled out her phone and shot a message to Jade.


    ¡°Brenna is the racing legend "Night". She is a professional."


    Jade''s expression shifted instantly when she read the message, her eyes wide with disbelief. "No! This can''t be


    true!" she muttered under her breath.


    If this was true, Brenna wouldn''t need Ethan''s car; she would race with her own legendary vehicle and her elite


    team, the verybination that had bested Jade before.


    "Forget it, then," Jade said to Ethan, not wanting to waste more time on the matter.


    She walked away, each second slipping through her fingers like sand as she recalibrated her strategies.


    Meanwhile, having meticulously reviewed Thiago''s materials, Brenna nced at the clock. With a calm precision, she gathered her gear and headed toward the changing rooms.


    "Miss Harper!"


    Neville approached her, keys in hand. "Mr. Mitchell''s car boasts exceptional specs. You should really consider taking it. I can show you to the garage."


    Brenna''s frosty gaze cut through his enthusiasm. "No thanks. I have my own car for the race."


    Neville hesitated, concern etching his features. "The safety features of Mr. Mitchell''s car are second to none. He said that no matter the results, safety is the most important. He is tied up with othermitments and can''t


    race today."


    Brenna adjusted her gloves, her resolve firm. "I appreciate the offer, but I''m familiar with my own car. Switching now would throw off my rhythm."


    Neville pressed on, still worried. "Miss Harper, you really don''t have to race. Wouldn''t it be wiser for you to watch from the sidelines with Mr. Mitchell?"


    Silence was her only response as Brenna slipped into the changing area, leaving Neville no choice but to report


    back to Ethan.


    After changing her clothes, Brenna spotted Jade inspecting a matte-ck racer. The car''s aggressive lines shimmered ominously in the light.


    "Back with my old rival," Brennamented, stopping beside the vehicle.


    Jade turned to look at Brenna sharply. The distinctive design of Brenna''s racing suit sparked immediate recognition in Jade; Brenna was the mysteriouspetitor who had defeated her before.


    "We meet again. I won''t show you mercy this time," Jade dered, determination radiating from her.


    Brenna''s eyes flicked to Jade''s car, a sleek beauty that outshone even thest one Jade had raced. She couldn''t help but wonder about its capabilities.


    "You can''t use your old car anymore?" she asked, recalling how Jade had nearly wrecked in a desperate attempt to beat her at Faronsist time.

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    Chapter 276 You Won''t


    Beat Me This Time


    Brenna was a stranger to Jade''s true nature, yet she knew her ruthless racing tactics all too well.


    Theirst showdown hadid bare Jade''s readiness to use any underhanded trick to clinch victory, even resorting to illegal vehicle modifications.


    Brenna circled the matte-ck racer, her fingertips trailing along its chassis. One practiced touch revealed the


    car''s enhancements to her.


    As she leaned in for a closer look, Jade blocked her path with a firm stance. "Why are you staring at my car?"


    Jade understood that Brenna''s mechanical prowess could decode any unauthorized tweaks easily.


    "Catch you on the track," Brenna said, pivoting toward her own vehicle.


    Jade watched Brenna go to the area where the crimson-ented racer was parked, its custom alloy wheels and aerodynamic curves captivating every photographer''s lens.


    "Style over substance," Jade muttered begrudgingly, slipping into her car.


    Memories of theirstpetition flooded her mind-how she had pushed her machine to the brink, sacrificing it in a desperate bid to catch Brenna''s taillights. In the end, her cary in ruins, nearly totaled, and she had still failed to defeated Brenna.


    That defeat had always festered like a thorn in Jade''s side.


    Each subsequent race had found her scanning entry lists for that alias "Night". Years had passed since shest saw it, and she had doubted Night would ever show up again. But today, her worst nightmare returned.


    Doubt gnawed at her. Then, she caught sight of her cockpit''s illegal modifications. It struck her that victory might demand some dirty tactics. Even if it meant tarnishing her own reputation, she was determined to take down Brenna this time.


    Officials lined up the racers for staggered starts, one-minute intervals separating each vehicle, with final rankings determined byp times.


    Carsunched one by one. Brenna held the ninth starting slot. Brenna realized that Jade had inexplicably secured permission to start at the same time as her. Because of the Hewitt family''s clout with the organizingmittee, this tant rule vition had slipped through the cracks.


    The two striking vehicles surged ahead at the starter''s signal, elerating like arrows released from a bow.


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    Chapter 276 You Won''t Best Me This Time


    Within moments, they vanished from the oval track''s view, maintaining identical speeds.


    Brenna skillfully maintained her position, a car length behind Jade, steering one- handed while casually taking in the scenery and her rival through the window.


    In stark contrast, Jade fought to keep her grip. Her white-knuckled hands clutched the steering wheel as she drove, her eyes darting frequently to the rearview mirror to see Brenna''s car.


    Sweat slicked her palms, the engine''s roar drowned out all other sounds as she zeroed in on the road. The gravel section loomed ahead, notorious for sending racers into spins and rollovers.


    Yet, she noticed Brenna still held her ground a car length back. Five minutes in, and Brenna had not closed the


    gap


    It appeared to her that Brenna''s skills had waned; she felt a fleeting moment of relief.


    Confidence surged through her.


    As she approached the notorious gravel section, its reputation held strong Despite passing threepetitors, her car shuddered violently, speed ebbing away as the tires struggled.


    She poured every ounce of strength into controlling the steering wheel, fighting to keep the vehicle steady. But a sideways nce shattered herposure¨CBrenna had caught up with her, and her car glided alongside hers


    with ease.


    Panic surged, and Jade mmed the elerator, disregarding the punishing terrain beneath her. Brenna''s window slid down further, her free hand wavingzily. She looked like she was bored.


    Fury ignited within Jade as she floored the gas pedal, surging past Brenna. "You won''t beat me this time!" Then, a deafening crash pierced the air. Ahead of Jade''s car, a red cary overturned in a ditch, smoke billowing ominously from its hood.


    Jade knew recklessness could lead to disaster, so she held her speed, focusing on the road to avoid a simr


    fate.


    Her car continued to bounce wildly, but she kept her mind sharp, recalling her pre-nned strategy. But thirty secondster, the familiar whine of Brenna''s engine signaled to her that Brenna had caught up with her again. There Brenna was, the window still open, reclining in her seat as if enjoying a leisurely drive.


    A sh of malice flickered in Jade''s eyes as her finger hovered over a ck button. With a decisive move, she pressed down.


    A circr hatch in the center of her car''s body sprang open, revealing a conical drill that extended and began to spin, reaching out thirty centimeters beyond the vehicle.


    The screech of metal being cut echoed. Brenna noticed from the rearview mirror that Jade had activated her illegal modification as she had expected.

 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 277

    Chapter 277 Victory


    Brenna''s lips twisted into a sneer as she regarded Jade with narrowed eyes. After all these years, was this really the best her so-called rival could muster? Just pping makeshift upgrades onto her outdated vehicle.


    With a calm expression, Brenna watched in her rearview mirror as the metal spike viciously jabbed at her car.


    At full throttle, the sh of metal against metal unleashed a shrill, ear-splitting screech, while a relentless spray of sparks erupted upward in dazzling arcs.


    Jade''s expression bore the mark of vicious satisfaction, her lips twisting into a grin as she looked at Brenna. "Enjoy yourst moments on this track."


    With a determined jab, she pressed the control button again,manding the spike to extend further. Her n was straightforward: the spike would puncture the chassis, shred the tires, and send Brenna''s car flipping into oblivion.


    Though this vited international racing rules, she couldn''t care less; eliminating Brenna was her sole focus.


    Jade shot Brenna a cold smile, but her rival remained infuriatinglyposed. Brenna had one elbow propped on the windowsill, fingers drumming a careless rhythm on the steering wheel.


    Fury ignited in Jade''s chest.


    Why was Brenna still so calm? That spike could slice through military-grade ting! How could Brenna remain unfazed by her most powerful weapon?


    Jade stomped the elerator, demanding every ounce of horsepower, trying to slice Brenna''s car in two with the metal spike.


    But as Jade pressed down, Brenna did the same. Jade tried hard to push her car to the limit, while Brenna


    maintained an unsettlingly rxed posture, a stark contrast to Jade, who strained against her harness.


    The metal spike shed with Brenna''s car, sending sparks flying and producing a grating sound. Jade had been


    waiting for the moment Brenna''s vehicle would break. Confident in the spike''s material, she believed it would


    cut through metal with ease.


    However, two minutes passed, and Jade realized the spike had only left a white mark on Brenna''s car. It hadn''t


    even made a dent, let alone cut the car.


    How could this be possible?


    Jade''s gaze darted between the rearview mirror and her control panel. The reality was undeniable; Brenna''s


    vehicle showed no meaningful damage.


    "This is impossible!" Jade hissed, her teeth clenched so tight that the words barely slipped through.


    In anger, she jerked the steering wheel, attempting to ram Brenna''s vehicle and force the spike deeper into its


    chassis.


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    The two cars now ran nearly bumper-to-bumper.


    Jade''s triumphant smirk faded as her rearview mirror revealed a grim reality.


    Her spike was buckling in reverse, warping so fiercely that it left a dent in the very frame of her own car.


    A sickening metallic crack echoed through the cabin as the speed of her car


    began to slow down.


    She nced at Brenna, and Brenna only sneered.


    With surgical precision, Brenna made a slight turn, sending her rear quarter panel crashing into Jade''s front end.


    The collision unleashed a cacophony of hellish sounds-screeching brakes, grinding metal, and the crunch of gravel beneath spinning tires.


    Jade''s world morphed into a violent blur as her car careened uncontrobly toward a massive roadside boulder. The impact resonated like an explosion. Jade''s car soared into the air,pleting two full rotations before crashing roof- first into the ground.


    All the airbags deployed with a sudden whoosh.


    Through the haze, Jade glimpsed Brenna''s retreating taillights and that mocking wave from the driver''s window. By the time Jade finally pulled herself from the wreckage, Brenna''s car had already disappeared from her sight. Jade stared numbly at her wrecked car. What kind of unholy material did Brenna''s car use? It could even withstand a diamond-tipped spike.


    After the race was over, Brenna traced gentle fingers over the battle scars-a barely noticeable dent and a superficial puncture. "Don''t worry, buddy," she murmured. "We''ll buff out these scratches. You did brilliantly today."


    Ethan had just dealt with the emergency that the Ward family had orchestrated- specifically, Jade''s plot to undermine his support for Brenna during the race, paving the way for her deadly intentions.


    13


    When he had watched thepetition unfold, he had felt his palms grow mmy with sweat every time Brenna''s car teetered on the edge of flipping or crashing into obstacles.


    His eyes shone with admiration as he approached Brenna. ¡°You were incredible," he said.


    He hadn''t expected Brenna to be so skilled at racing. She was the legendary "Night" in the racing world.


    As he examined the minor damage on her car, he reassured her, "My personal garage specializes in hypercar restoration. Your racer will be wless again soon."


    Brenna acknowledged his words with a nod, removing her helmet with the easy grace of a champion.


    Just then, Rosie walked over in a fluster. ¡°Ethan! Jade''s injuries are severe; she has facialcerations that may scar permanently. You need to go and check on her now!"


    Ethan turned to look at her coldly. "Why should I care about her?"


    Rosie blinked in confusion. "But I thought you and Miss Hewitt were close. She has confessed her feelings to you several times..."


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    She then looked at Brenna and exined, "Brenna, don''t misunderstand. Ethan and Miss Hewitt have a long history. Their bond isn''t just about her helping him


    once. They used to be really close."

 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 278

    Chapter 278 You Really Enjoy Touching Me


    Posie had grown up amidst the same social dirdes as Ethan. Though their paths crossed only asionally, those encounters eclipsed Brenna''s interactions with Ethan. This gave Rosie the confidence that she knew Ethan better than Brenna.


    Ethan''s reputation for emotional detachment was legendary, he was a man who navigated life''s choices without thepass of sentiment, never once exhibiting a flicker of romantic interest in any woman.


    Rosie had convinced herself that Ethan''s choice of being with Brenna was a calction of cold pragmatism. As the daughter of the Harper couple, Brenna represented strategic value that she, a mere niece of the couple, could never hope to match.


    This realization brought her a strange sense of peace. She believed Ethan didn''t love Brenna, his choice of being with Brenna was nothing more than a shrewd assessment of benefits.


    By that same logic, Jade''s power dwarfed Brenna''s entirely. The scales of advantage had tilted decisively in Jade''s favor.


    Rosie believed Ethan''s indifference was just an act. "After all Jade has done for you," she said, "are you really going to be so cold to her? You won''t even visit her when she is injured. Isn''t that a touch heartless?"


    Ethan''s nod wasced with unspoken words. He did have something to say to Jade. The reckoning over Jade''s assault on Brenna was long overdue.


    "Very well," he said, his voice icy. "I will pay her a visit."


    He turned to Brenna, his gaze softening "Shall we go together?"


    Brenna''s nod was resolute. She also had things she wanted to say to Jade.


    Together, they made their way to the hospital.


    Jade''s injuries painted a stark tableau-ligament strains mapping her limbs, facial abrasions stretching from cheekbone to jawline, and a violent purpling around her orbital bones. She looked pitiful.


    "Ethan, you do care about me after all," Jade said, brushing off her injuries with a wave. She believed she would


    bounce back in a week.


    Her radiant smile at Ethan''s presence dimmed the moment Brenna stepped into view. Her expression morphed


    into lethal hostility. "What are you doing here?"


    Instinctively, she reached for a gun, only to remember that in Vand, civilians were forbidden from carrying firearms. ring at Brenna, she seethed, convinced that Brenna hade to settle the score with her.


    Brenna regarded Jade with an icy stare. Observing Jade''s battered state, she felt that the retribution was far too


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    Chapter 278 You Really Enjoy Touching Me


    lenient; Jade''s injury wasn''t severe.


    Brenna had meticulously plotted her move to flip Jade''s car with the tail of her own vehicle countless times in her mind. Given the safety features of the race cars, her maneuver should have broken Jade''s neck.


    But Jade had survived, meaning that her car''s safety features were exemry. But next time, luck might not be on her side.


    "I just came here to see if you died," Brenna said bluntly.


    Jade shot back with venom, "I won''t die before you!"


    Ethan watched their confrontation unfold. Jade''spleteck of remorse and her unwavering arrogance ignited a fire within him. He stepped forward, choking Jade by the throat, his eyes ame with fury. "Don''t think that just because you saved me once, you can harm Brenna. No oneys a hand on her and walks away unscathed. Matters between.us have nothing to do with her. You better remember that."


    Jade was unfazed. She firmly believed Ethan wouldn''t go so far as to kill her; he was merely trying to intimidate her. Instead of retreating, she leaned in closer, a provocative smile ying on her lips. ¡°Ethan, this isn''t about her being your girlfriend. Five years ago, I encountered Brenna on the race track, and she almost killed me. Now, I''m back to settle the score with her. The matter has nothing to do with you."


    Ethan was convinced Jade was weaving a web of lies. She had harmed his woman and showed no shred of remorse. Tightening his grip, he watched as Jade''s face turned purple, her breathing inbored gasps.


    Yet even in that moment of distress, Jade remained unfazed. With a twisted smile, she caressed Ethan''s hand, her expression one of unwarranted delight. "You really enjoy touching me, don''t you?" she purred.


    Disgusted, Ethan yanked his hand away and wiped it with a tissue, his face contorting with revulsion. "You make me sick. Mark my words: whatever I owe you will be repaid. But if you darey another finger on Brenna, I''ll ensure the Ward family is erased from this world."


    Brenna observed the scene with a cold gaze. Compared to five years ago, Jade had morphed into a more ruthless and shameless adversary, even daring to flirt with Ethan right in front of her.


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    In a swift motion, Brenna picked up a ss of water from the table and sshed it across Jade''s face. "Flirt with my man again, and next time, it''ll be acid."


    Jade chuckled lightly, unfazed by their threats. She raised an eyebrow, her challenge lingering in the air. "Oh, Brenna, did you really think I''d just give up on Ethan? He and I, we''re meant to be. Love? That''s just a pretty fairy tale people tell themselves. Power? Now that''s what endures. Ethan will eventually be mine. You''ll see."


    With an air of arrogance, she continued, "In less than three months, I''ll make the Harper Group vanish from


    Vand. Let''s see how youpete with me for Ethan then."


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    Chapter 279 You''re Useless


    Brenna rode with Ethan as they left the hospital. She knew jade never bluffed. Given her reckless streak, jade would definitely target the Harper Group.


    In a swift reversal of conventional wisdom, Brenna concluded that the most impregnable bulwark was a preemptive strike. She quickly resolved to bring down the Ward family first.


    From the window of her hospital room, Jade watched as Ethan''s car pulled away. A cial chill crept into her eyes. Just then, Rosie walked into the room. She paused beside Jade, her gaze following suit, fixated on the retreating car.


    "Miss Hewitt, I underestimated Brenna''s car and her racing skills," Rosie admitted, feeling guilty. "I apologize for what happened. If my leg were fully healed, I would have handled her myself."


    Jade spun around, furious. Without warning, she pped Rosie hard across the face. "I told you to mess with Brenna. Why are you failing to cause trouble for her? You''re useless!*


    Rosie clutched her face, not daring to speak. She knew Jade''s temper, one wrong word could lead to a beating. A p was a mild punishment.


    "I''m really sorry," Rosie apologized.


    Jade pped her again. "That''s pointless! You can''t even do this small task, and you expect me to help you get Harper Group shares?"


    Rosie felt aggrieved. She hadn''t known how skilled Brenna was, or that Jade was a racer no match for Brenna. Why did Jade me her for her own failings?


    But on her own, she couldn''t get more Harper Group shares. She needed Jade. Gritting her teeth, she knelt.


    She said, "It''s all my fault. Punish me as you see fit, Miss Hewitt. Hit me; do anything you want. Just don''t abandon me. Please!"


    Jade turned her head with a sneer. "You couldn''t even drug her. A child could do better than you."


    Rosie exined, "You don''t understand. Brenna has medical training, she can smell drugs in food. I tried, but she saw through it. Now, I don''t even know if she''ll retaliate! Miss Hewitt, please give me another chance. I''ll find a way to get rid of her."


    Jade''s eyes flicked away with disdain. "Enough," she snapped. "Get up. Your groveling makes me look bad."


    Rosie''s groveling had pleased Jade. Seeing a Harper on her knees was satisfying. "Serve me well, and I''ll help you secure more shares."


    "Thank you, Miss Hewitt." Rosie felt hopeful again.


    Jade walked to the bed and sat down. "The Russell family''s matriarch''s 80th birthday is soon. Brenna will be there. You''d better attend, too. We''ll do something then."


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    Rosie looked at Jade. "What''s your n, Miss Hewter


    Jadeughed lightly. "Not finalized pet stay dose to Brenna, don''t make her suspicious. I''ll need your help to deal with her then so don''t provoke her yer


    Rosie''s expression mirrored Jade''s hardening one as the said, "I don''t understand it. Ethan used to treat you with such kindness, like a genuine friend. You even saved him once. And now, he speaks to you in that manner? It''s outrageous."


    Jade''s coldugh was sharp with contained fry. "This is all because of Brenna. Ethan likes her so much. What does Ethan even see in her? Aren''t men supposed to be intimidated by women who are more aplished than they are? By all logic, he shouldn''t be interested in her. It''s infuriatingly baffling"


    Rosie attempted to calm her agitation. "No one remains vignt indefinitely, not even Brenna. Her defenses will eventually lower. We simply need to observe carefully and seize the opportunity when it arises."


    Meeting Jade''s gaze directly, Rosie spoke with firm resolve. I will get close to her in theing days and uncover her weaknesses. Everyone has them, I believe she has them, too."


    Jade scoffed dismissively, "Spare me the effort. After everything you''ve put her through? She would never trust you again. Don''t waste your time. The idea that you can get close to her is simply absurd. Just monitor her movements and identify her allies and weaknesses."


    Rosie nodded. She knew Brenna would never allow her dose, her words were primarily to show Jade''s her loyalty. "You''re right, Miss Hewitt. But I do know this: Brenna''s closest friend, Ellie, has a six-year-old son, and Brenna is the child''s godmother."


    "Oh?" A spark of interest ignited in Jade''s eyes. A child-that presented a potential weakness. "Who is the child''s father?"


    "A Russell," Jade replied.


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    Chapter 280 Don''t Be So Greedy


    Saturday morning dawned bright, and Jayceon arrived at Ellie''s apartment with the sun. He paused by the door, adjusting his tie, briefly pressing his hand to his chest in a nervous gesture, then closed his eyes and inhaled deeply, seemingly bracing himself for the encounter ahead.


    "Ellie, you absolutely have toe with me to my grandmother''s birthday party today," he muttered under his breath, forcing a smile onto his face in an attempt to project confidence.


    Then, he pressed the doorbell.


    Tori, wearing an apron dusted with flour, opened the door.


    Her face immediately lit up at the sight of Jayceon. "Jayceon! What a lovely surprise! Please,e in. Ellie is still asleep, but I''ll wake her up right away!"


    It wasn''t that Tori particrly liked Jayceon as a potential son-inw. However, upon learning that he was a member of the Russell family, one of Shirie''s most prominent families, and owned his own sessful conglomerate despite not being the primary heir, she realized he was very rich


    Her hospitality towards wealthy individuals knew no bounds.


    "I would appreciate that," Jayceon replied with practiced politeness.


    He stepped inside, holding a gift-an imported, buildable fighter jet model. In the living room, Patrick sat cross-legged on the sofa, deeply absorbed in assembling a car model that Brenna had given him a few days earlier.


    "Not even a hello for your father, Patrick?" Jayceon sat down beside Patrick, ruffling his hair before presenting the long box. ¡°Guess what I brought for you?"


    Patrick''s usual indifference toward Jayceon vanished as his eyes widened at the sight of the fighter jet model. "Wow! Thanks, Dad!"


    Meanwhile, Ellie remained sound asleep until Tori burst into the room and yanked the bedcovers off her. "Get up now! Jayceon is here."


    Ellie groaned and pulled the covers back over her head. She wanted to continue to sleep.


    But Tori was having none of it. She pulled the nkets off again and pinched Ellie''s arm. "Wake up! That man is very rich! And he''s Patrick''s father. How can you be so indifferent to him? How will Patrick inherit his wealth in the future if you treat him this way?"


    Ellie finally opened her eyes. "Money. That''s all you ever care about, isn''t it?"


    Grumbling, she forced herself into a sitting position. As annoying as it was, she believed Tori had a point. Trying to get money from Jayceon using Patrick felt distasteful. But after all the sacrifices she had made raising


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    Patrick on her own, she believed Jayceon could at least offer child support.


    Tori turned and left the room.


    Twenty minutester, Ellie walked into the living room looking impably stylish.


    She sat down beside Jayceon. "Alright, why did youe here today?"


    Her tone was icy. Her message was clear: there was no possibility of reconciliation between Jayceon and her.


    Seeing her cold and distant demeanor, Jayceon felt his spirits fall. "It''s my grandmother''s 80th birthday today. Would you consider attending the birthday party with me?"


    Ellie snorted and gave him a brief, scornful look. "No thanks."


    "Why not?" Jayceon asked. "You are Patrick''s mother. It''s appropriate for you to attend my grandmother''s


    birthday."


    "Take Patrick there if you want," Ellie stated tly, her gaze mocking. "What identity should I use to attend the


    birthday party? Your former girlfriend? I don''t think that''s appropriate."


    After an hour of attempts to persuade Ellie, Jayceon had made no progress. Patrick was the only one who apanied him as Jayceon left.


    After Jayceon had left, Tori confronted Ellie, saying, "When exactly are you going to get that child support from


    him?"


    Ellie rubbed her temples. "I told you, when the time is right. Besides, hasn''t he already given us a lot? He gave us two luxury apartments and two cars! What more do you want? Mom, don''t be so greedy!"


    Tori sniffed disdainfully and said, "Those were gifts for us. Patrick is his son; he deserves shares in his family


    business! When the opportune moment arises, you should ask for that!"


    Ellie raised an eyebrow skeptically. "Oh? Since when did you be an expert on that? Shares could be worthless tomorrow if hispanies fail. But money would never lose its value."


    Tori''s eyes zed over as she quietly mumbled calctions, weighing the value of stocks against money.


    At the Russell family''s residence.


    As Brenna and Ethan exited their car, their eyes immediately focused on the group gathered beneath the garden pavilion; Jade, Isabe, and Rosie were seated together with a sweet-looking girl whom Brenna vaguely


    recognized as Tina Russell, Jayceon''s younger sister.


    Patrick sat next to Tina, deeply involved in putting together the fighter jet model.


    "Let''s go and greet Jayceon''s grandmother first," Ethan said, offering his arm to Brenna.


    Just then, Tina walked towards them, pulling Patrick along by the hand.


    Brenna instinctively paused, assuming they were approaching her.


    However, Tina walked right past her, heading directly towards someone behind her, eximing dramatically,


    "Hey, it''s been such a long time!"


    As Tina walked past Brenna, she deliberately made eye contact with Brenna and sneered.


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    Brenna turned to see a meticulously dressed little girl enter, resembling a life- sized Barbie doll.


    "Brenna!" Suddenly, Brenna''s leg was embraced, and looking down, she saw Patrick had somehow run over, his expression a pout of unhappiness.


    Brenna gently took his hand. "What''s wrong?"


    "Daddy got called away and left me all alone. I don''t like it here." Patrick''s eyes shed with hurt as he red at Tina. "She just called me a bastard!"


    Brenna''s expression turned cold. Just as she had feared, the notorious infighting within the Russell family had already ensnared an innocent child. Even siblings in the family seemed to take pleasure in tearing each other down


    She crouched down to Patrick''s level. "Stay with me. I''ll make sure she regrets calling you that."


    "Okay!" Patrick''s eyes brightened with a hint of vengeful anticipation as he nodded eagerly.


    At noon, Amy Russell, the matriarch of the Russell family, made her entrance. She was silver-haired yet surprisingly spry. Her rosy cheeks and lively stride belied her age. She looked to be in a good mood.


    "You must be the Harper girl who has recently returned," Amy said to Brenna.


    "Yes, that''s me. Happy birthday, Mrs. Russell," Brenna said respectfully.


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    Amy''s gaze lingered pointedly on Brenna''s arm linked with Ethan''s. "You are quite the beauty. Have you been engaged to Ethan?"


    Brenna answered, "No, but we are dating."


    Amy''s lips pursed slightly. "I always thought Rosie would be Ethan''s wife. All of this is rather unexpected.


    It is clear Shepard favors his daughter over his niece."


    Brenna''s polite smile vanished. Beneath Amy''s kind exterior lurked a sharp tongue; these carefully chosen


    words were intended to make her ufortable.


    Rosie, Isabe, and Jade stood nearby, exchanging amused nces as they watched Brenna''s reaction. Would


    she dare to confront the elder of the Russell family?


    "Mrs. Russell," Rosie said sweetly, slipping her arm through Amy''s with practiced ease, "you have always been


    so kind to me."


    Amy shot Brenna a disapproving look while patting Rosie''s hand tenderly. "The Harpers disy such poor manners-not a single family member came to celebrate my eightieth birthday. But you came here to celebrate


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    my birthday with me. Remember, if the Harper family ever mistreats you, I will stand up for you."


    Rosie beamed. "Thank you, Mrs. Russell."


    Brenna almostughed. The audacity of this meddling old woman. Her own family was a hotbed of conflict, yet here she was, trying to meddle in the Harper family''s affairs.


    Her attempt to create animosity between her and Rosie was evident. Brenna believed she was clearly not a good


    person.


    But given Amy''s obvious favoritism, Brenna wondered if she envisioned Rosie marrying someone from the


    Russell family.


    Rosie gave Brenna a challenging look, clearly anticipating an outburst that would incur Amy''s wrath.


    Just as Brenna opened her mouth to respond, Ethan gave her hand a soft squeeze.


    He then spoke with a calm that betrayed no surprise at Amy''s words. He was well aware that refined manners were a raremodity within the Russell family. "Mrs. Russell, Rosie has always been treated well in the Harper family. Luther cherishes her, Shepard has raised her like she were his own daughter, and I have always regarded her as a sister."


    His steady gaze fixed on Rosie. "Wouldn''t you agree, Rosie?"


    Rosie''s breath hitched in her throat. Ethan was talking to her in a very gentle tone.


    He had never talked to her with such tenderness before.


    "Ethan is right," Rosie said, her eyes lowered. "I have always been treated with nothing but kindness in the


    Harper family."


    Amy, having spent decades navigating the treacherous currents of high society, immediately recognized Ethan''s protective stance of Brenna. Though inwardly irritated, she was astute enough to avoid offending the Mitchell family. Her barbs directed at Brenna would have to wait for a more opportune moment.


    Her gaze then settled on the grand piano. "Ah, how I adored the arts in my younger years, symphony halls, theater boxes... What a pity no one thought to arrange performances for my eightieth birthday." She sighed


    dramatically.


    Fay, ever alert to social advantage, seized the chance, quickly walking over from Jayceon''s side. "I will y something for you, Mrs. Russell."


    Amy''s smile did not extend to her eyes as she assessed her. "Thank you. How thoughtful of you."


    Fay sat down and yed the piano.


    Amy listened, her eyes closed while Rosie massaged her shoulders with care.


    The final chord had barely faded into silence when Tina said, "So, Brenna, you are a renowned engineer.¡± Her tone dripped with thinly veiled malice. ¡°Tell me, amidst all that tightening of bolts and loosening of screws, did you ever manage to acquire any art? Like, perhaps, ying the piano?"


    Isabe eagerly joined in the taunting, saying, "Brenna doesn''t know how to y the piano."


    Her contemptuous gaze swept over Brenna. "I really don''t understand what Mr. Mitchell sees in her."


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    Chapter 282 Can You Do


    That


    Rosie, Jade, and Tina exchanged knowing nces, smirks ying on their lips.


    For the past two weeks, Tina had been poisoning Amy''s perception of Brenna with carefully crafted lies. She painted Brenna as a heartless and selfish individual who took pleasure in tormenting Rosie, orchestrating her banishment from the Harper family, and even turning her own brothers against her.


    Amy''s disdain for Brenna had intensified when, thanks to Rosie''s subtle maniption, she had "identally" stumbled upon those hotel photographs depicting Brenna checking in with a man.


    Now, witnessing Brenna''s striking beauty firsthand, especially the possessive way she clung to Ethan''s arm. Amy felt her suspicions confirmed. She believed Brenna had clearly stolen Ethan from Rosie.


    Having seen Tina and Rosie grow up together, Amy had always treated Rosie with the affection of a family. In her eyes, Brenna naturally warranted contempt.


    Jade looked at Brenna with a smug superiority. "I heard you were someone of consequence, giving public lectures at Shirie University. But now, it appears you are merely amonborer. Since when dodies from respectable families engage in such manual work? Our kind curate art collections, perhaps manage a few businesses for amusement. Turning screws? That is the domain of the working ss, meant for men of lower standing."


    A wave of hushed whispers rippled through the crowd.


    Dozens of pairs of eyes scrutinized Brenna.


    Brenna cleared her throat and offered a sincere correction, saying, "I am not amonborer; I am a mechanical engineer. My work involves designing ships, helicopters, advanced robotic arms, and even intelligent robots."


    A burst ofughter erupted from Jade, Tina, and their clique.


    "Oh, please, spare us the tall tales. I only heard you possessed some knowledge of car design. I''ve certainly


    never heard that you can design any of the things you just mentioned," Jade mocked, her tone dripping with


    scorn.


    Brenna rolled her eyes, frustrated that her rare attempt at exnation had been met with such ridicule. "Why


    would I fabricate such a thing?"


    A surge of anger coursed through her; she regretteding here, regretted considering Ethan''s reputation, or the perceived need to be acknowledged as Ethan''s girlfriend.


    Ethan said in a calm tone, "It is your own ignorance and narrow-mindedness that prevent you from believing Brenna. You clearly have noprehension of the capabilities of someone with a degree in mechanical design.


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    Brenna is not like you all, who seem to only be upied with endless beauty treatments and trivial social media. She is someone who achieves significant aplishments, a highly skilled mechanical engineer."


    Rosie felt a pang of displeasure upon hearing Ethan''s open defense of Brenna. However, she knew she couldn''t reveal her true feelings. She hadn''t evenughed at Brenna with Tina and the others earlier, fearing Brenna would see through her carefully constructed facade of reconciliation.


    Despite her reluctance, Rosie spoke up in Brenna''s defense. "Tina, Brenna is indeed an excellent mechanical engineer. I have seen the cars she has designed; they are truly remarkable. I think she is telling the truth about designing ships and helicopters."


    Tina scoffed dismissively, "Oh, please. I strongly suspect she is simply lying to show off. If not, perhaps she could provide us with some examples of her work?"


    She snorted derisively and turned to Amy. "Grandma, she has only just returned to the Harper family and is clearly trying to impress everyone. We can understand a little embellishment."


    Amy''s expression was stern. "Do not boast in my presence. The Russell family has no wee for such individuals. If you truly wish to impress me, perform something for me. Can you do that?"


    All eyes turned to Brenna.


    Rosie quickly interjected, her toneced with nervous concern, "Brenna doesn''t possess any artistic talents. She''spletely devoted to her work. Please don''t put her in a difficult position. How about I y a piano piece for you, Mrs. Russell?"


    Brenna immediately recognized Rosie''s ploy; she was clearly cooperating with the others to humiliate her.


    Brenna said, ¡°Mrs. Russell, if you desire performers for your birthday celebration, that''s easily arranged. I can


    readily invite professionals."


    Seething, Brenna was now determined to make asting impression on these condescending individuals.


    She swiftly dialed Braeden''s number. "I''m at Mrs. Russell''s birthday party. They are mocking my profession,


    belittling me and dismissing my helicopter design skills as lies. I want to show them something they will not


    forget."


    At the other end of the line, Braeden''s eyebrows furrowed.


    "Alright, just wait for a while," he said.


    His most valued engineer was being subjected to such disrespect?


    He would not stand this!


    He immediately dialed another number. "Connect me to the military performance troupe."


    Brenna ended the call, a flicker of satisfaction dancing in her eyes.


    Tina sneered, her voice dripping with sarcasm, "Who could you possibly summon? Some street performer? Let me remind you-my grandmother possesses refined tastes, and the Russell name carries significant weight. Our gates will not simply open formon entertainers. If, by some extraordinary miracle, you do manage to produce someone noteworthy, then I''l.......¡±


    Tina''s voice trailed off as she realized she hadn''t really considered what she would do if that happened.


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    Tina straightened with an arrogant air, her chest puffed out slightly as a derisive chuckle escaped her. Her gaze swept over Brenna with clear disdain. "Interesting. Who exactly do you think you are? You are not even worthy of making a bet with me."


    The insult came easily to her. But then, her eyes identally met Ethan''s. The murderous look there sent chills down her spine.


    The Russell and Mitchell families shared a long history. Her brother, Jayceon, had been Ethan''s childhood friend Like Jayceon, she had always addressed Ethan in a familiar way. Ethan had always treated her with a gentle sort of patience-until this moment.


    That icy, lethal stare waspletely new to her. She could no longer hold Ethan''s gaze. She knew Brenna was Ethan''s girlfriend, but her pride kept her chin up. So what if she had insulted Brenna? She wouldn''t apologize to her!


    Ethan''s sweeping gaze took in the silent crowd; no one stepped out to defend Brenna until little Patrick, his face red, stood in front of Brenna in a protective posture. "Don''t you dare insult my godmother!" The boy threw a piece of cake at Tina with surprising uracy.


    The cake hit Tina''s face directly. Cream sttered and then plopped onto her expensive dress.


    "You little bastard, how dare you do that to me?" Tina shrieked. "I''ll beat you for this!"


    Ethan''srge hand rested on Patrick''s head, a sharp smirk on his face. "Good throw. I''ve got you. Let''s see who dares to punish you for it."


    His voice was calm and steady, without any anger, yet it held an undeniable authority that silenced everyone


    present.


    Tina had already stood up, raising her hand angrily to grab Patrick. But when her furious eyes met Ethan''s cold


    stare, she was instantly shocked by the murderous intent in his eyes.


    She sank back onto the sofa, bursting into tears. "Grandma! They''re bullying me in my own home!"


    Brenna finally spoke, her tone indifferent. "I wasn''t aware that the Russell family bullied guests who came with


    good wishes. Even if I''m not the Harper family''s daughter, just an ordinary personing with good intentions,


    you shouldn''t treat me like this, right? Mrs. Russell, what do you think?"


    Amy''s face turned pale, and she snorted heavily. While Brenna was right about basic hospitality, she believed Brenna didn''t deserve an apology.


    In her opinion, Rosie was the real Harper family''s daughter, while Brenna was hardly better than a servant. She


    didn''t deserve to be in her house, let alone at her birthday.


    Amy snatched the TV remote and threw it. "Didn''t your upbringing teach you any manners? Or is this the way Shepard taught you to speak to an elder?"


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    "My father taught me to give respect where it''s due," Brenna replied smoothly. "Some people just don''t deserve


    respect."


    All of the Russells got angry at that.


    Davin Russell pointed a finger at Brenna. "Say that again!"


    Ethan''s gaze sharpened instantly, the air growing tense. "If the Russell family members continue to show disrespect to Brenna, I will not hold back. I happen to have some free timetely. I could help clear the bad things in Shirie."


    The Russell family members'' faces paled. Ethan was ready to bring down the Russell family, and he had the power to do so.


    Davin''s wife pulled his sleeve. "Apologize! Now!"


    Davin swallowed hard. "Miss Harper, Mr. Mitchell, this is a misunderstanding! We didn''t mean to disrespect you. Please don''t get mad. My grandmother''s celebration should be peaceful."


    With a reprimand, he turned to Tina and said sharply, "What were you thinking? Talking to Miss Harper Exce that? If Miss Harper wants to make a bet with you, you should agree."


    Tina had wiped most of the cream off her face, fighting the urge to strangle Brenna.


    Faced with the Russells'' angry looks, Tina didn''t dare to make things difficult for Brenna anymore. Fine," she said through gritted teeth. "What bet are you talking about?"


    Brenna''s smile twisted slightly. "Since you took such pleasure in trying to humiliate me, don''t you think it''s only fair that you pay for that?"


    Did they think she''d just take those insults?


    "Let''s see..." She tapped her chin thoughtfully.


    The sweeter Brenna''s smile became, the more Tina''s stomach churned.


    Brenna said, ¡°Ah! If I can get powerful figures toe here to celebrate Amy''s birthdayter, you''ll crawl through the living room and bark three times. If I can''t, I will do that."

 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 284

    Chapter 284 Legendary


    Performer


    Inside the office of a military districtmander.


    Elsa walked in with purpose and gave a sharp salute. "Reporting as ordered, sir."


    Themander, a broad-shouldered man, rose from his chair at once. "Our lead aircraft designer is being publicly embarrassed at a social gathering. You are to provide support to her. Go and give a performance at the Russell family matriarch''s birthday celebration."


    Elsa looked younger than her age. Though she was in her fifties, her smooth skin and upright posture gave her the appearance of someone in her thirties.


    "Understood. When should I go?" she said without hesitation.


    "Immediate deployment. The performance troupe is already mobilized. You''ll get


    the briefing in the helicopter," he said, his voice firm and final.


    "Yes, sir!" Elsa was about to step out but paused at the door. "What''s the designer''s name, sir?"


    *Brenna Harper," themander answered.


    Elsa stiffened. The woman Ethan had brought home was the country''s top aerospace engineer? That was impressive.


    But performing for her future daughter-inw? That didn''t sit right with Elsa.


    Elsa''s face darkened. The order struck her as ridiculous. Had Brenna asked for her by name, or had thise down from seniormand?


    If Brenna had asked for her to go, then it was nothing short of insolent and a direct challenge to the hierarchy. That kind of disrespect had no ce in her home. Her son would not be allowed to marry someone so ill-mannered.


    "Sir," Elsa said, trying to keep her voice level. "Could we assign someone else? Brenna is my son''s girlfriend. It would be inappropriate for me to go."


    Themander''s razor-sharp gaze sliced through her protest. "You have your orders already."


    Elsa clenched her jaw, gave a final salute, and turned on her heel to leave.


    In the Russell family''s living room, the younger generation gathered around Amy while Jayceon''s father led the celebration, carefully slicing the cake for her.


    Just then, a roar outside broke through the chatter. Heads turned at once. They could tell that a helicopter was


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    approaching just by hearing it.


    The butler rushed in, panting. "A military helicopter justnded in our yard!"


    The guests poured outside in a wave of curiosity and excitement. At the front were Brenna and Ethan, their eyes locked on the aircraft.


    The door swung open, and the first to step down was none other than Elsa Mitchell, the legendary performer


    herself.


    She was followed by seven individuals, each carrying a musical instrument. Clearly, they were a performance


    troupe.


    "Wait, is that Elsa? She''s in the military?"


    "She''s wearing insignia. Looks like a colonel''s rank."


    "I thought she retired from public shows."


    "She''s in her fifties? How does she still look younger than me?"


    Gasps rippled through the crowd as their eyesnded on the high-ranking insignias. This wasn''t some ordinary


    band. They were looking at a high-ranking unit.


    Everyone was shocked. Jayceon''s father turned to his sons, grinning from ear to ear. "Did you arrange this for


    Grandma?"


    He stood a little taller, chest swelling with pride. This was a grand show of respect. The kind that brought


    honor to the whole family. "You''ve really outdone yourself. I am proud of you."


    But Jayceon and his brother Davin exchanged a baffled look and shook their heads. "Dad, it wasn''t us. We


    wouldn''t even know how to contact the military. Only Ethan could pull something like this off."


    Jayceon turned to Ethan with grateful eyes. "You did this? After that incident earlier, I thought you''d sabotage


    the celebration."


    Ethan didn''t answer right away. His eyes flicked between Elsa and Brenna, and


    his jaw clenched. Was Brenna


    the one behind this?


    This was going to be a problem.


    "It wasn''t me," Ethan said through his teeth. He was already thinking through how


    to keep Elsa from


    confronting Brennater.


    Jayceon blinked in confusion. "It wasn''t you?"


    Brenna''s face darkened. She hadn''t expected Braeden to call in her future mother-inw. Though Elsa more than met the standard, this brought her trouble.


    Murmurs swept through the crowd. Elsa strode up to Brenna and gave a sharp, regtion salute. "Ms. Harper. Orders received to attend Mrs. Russell''s birthday. Please advise us on performance details."


    Ethan opened his mouth, but the word "Mom" caught in his throat. Elsa''s re shut him down before he could speak.


    The Mitchells, despite their immense wealth, had always kept a low profile. Elsa''s military career had ced


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    Chapter 285 You''re In Deep


    Trouble


    Ethan and Brenna both tensed up, sensing the cold, dangerous aura pouring off Elsa like a wave.


    In a sh, they straightened up, suddenly on their best behavior.


    Brenna stood frozen for a moment. Elsa still wore that calm, polite smile, but the fact that she acted like she didn''t know Brenna? That hit like a p. How could Brenna possibly tell her what to perform?


    She didn''t dare.


    "Anything is fine," Brenna mumbled.


    Elsa''s piercing gaze fixed on Ethan, causing him to fidget ufortably.


    Brenna, shedding any trace of haughtiness, watched humbly as Elsa took the stage, no longer concerned with showing off to Tina,


    Elsa''s vocal performance, though not destined for the charts, revealed her masterful training, worthy of a celebrated national artist.


    The military band wrapped up the performance in just fifteen minutes, and Elsa even took a moment to offer Amy warm birthday wishes.


    As the helicopter whisked the band away, Brenna leaned toward Ethan, murmuring, "I''m so sorry; I had no idea your mom would show up."


    Ethan''s face remained grim, unable to muster even a forced smile. He knew he would be scolded by his mother soon. Earlier, he had recognized the pilot, Kenny, who had shot him a sharp gaze.


    Back inside, Brenna stopped Tina before she could slip away. "So, what did you think of the performance?


    Happy with the lineup?"


    Tina''s eyes zed with fury. "You, pulling strings with the military elite? Don''t kid yourself; that was all


    Ethan''s doing!"


    She refused to grovel or y along with any degrading stunts.


    Ethan''s tone turned icy. "Fine. No groveling, no theatrics. But I hear the Russells have several billion-dor deals on the table, and mypanies could use the contracts..."


    Barton Russell,, Jayceon''s father, quickly assessed the situation. While Brenna might be negotiable, crossing Ethan and the Harper family was a losing game. He swiftly reprimanded Tina with a sharp p. "A bet is a bet. The Russells won''t risk Mr. Mitchell''s wrath over your ego!"


    Tina''s eyes welled with tears, and even Amy could only relent seeing her son''s fury, nudging Tina forward.


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    "Do it."


    The crowd parted, forming a space for Tina''s degrading crawl.


    Tina had no choice but to do it. She crawled and barked like a dog three times.


    A stifled chuckle from the crowd was quickly silenced by the Russells'' collective re.


    Jayceon''s expression darkened. Ethan, his lifelong friend, had publicly shredded the Russell family''s pride. How could he face his family now?


    Grasping for a diversion, he announced stiffly, "Lunch is ready. Let''s go eat."


    The guests eagerly dispersed to the garden, avoiding any mention of the spectacle.


    Tina, devastated, fled upstairs, crying.


    In a quiet corner, Isabe and Jade discussed the drama in hushed whispers.


    Jayceon pulled Ethan aside for a conversation.


    Rosie seized the moment to confront Brenna, who stood alone now. "Do you even realize who that was earlier?"


    Her face was grave. While most guests might not have identified Ethan''s mother, she had deeper connections to the Mitchell family and had recognized Elsa.


    Brenna met her gaze coolly. "Yeah."


    Rosie blinked, startled. She had assumed Ethan hadn''t introduced Brenna to his parents. "You''re in deep trouble," she said.


    "I don''t need you to tell me that," Brenna shot back, casting a sidelong nce before leading Patrick to eat.


    During the meal, Brenna noticed Zoe Russell, Davin''s young daughter, stealing curious nces their way with wide, innocent eyes.


    Patrick, too, kept looking at Zoe.


    After lunch, Zoe yed in the yard, clutching a stunning crystal ball. Patrick approached her. "Hi, can I y with you?" he asked.


    Zoe, roughly Patrick''s age, smiled. "Sure! I''m Zoe Russell. What''s your name?"


    "I''m Patrick Moore. You can call me Patrick. Your crystal ball is really pretty. Can I take a look?" Patrick said.


    Zoe passed the shimmering crystal ball to Patrick. At that moment, a servant carrying a tray of drinks brushed


    by, inadvertently knocking Patrick''s arm. The ball slipped from his grasp, rolling wildly across the ground. The


    spot was near the basement entrance, where the floor nted slightly downward.


    The crystal ball sped toward the open door and bounced down the basement stairs with a series of clinks.


    Without hesitation, Zoe and Patrick dashed after it, determined to retrieve it.


    After finishing her meal, Brenna scanned the yard for Patrick, but he was nowhere in sight.


    "Patrick? Where did you go?" she called, rising from her seat to search for him.


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    Chapter 725 Youre to Deep Trouble


    feabelle had just settled back into her chair, a subtle, self-satisfied glint in her


    eyes.


    Brenna approached her. "Have you seen Patrick anywhere?"


    Isabe gave a casual shake of her head. "No, haven''t seen him.


    100.0%

 Once His Wife, Now His Rival 286

    Chapter 286 I Won''t Allow


    You Two To Be Together


    "Godmother!"


    "Mom! Dad!"


    Children''s cries pierced the air from the basement. Brenna''s head whipped toward the sound, her heart lurching as the shouts rang out again.


    Isabe narrowed her eyes, dissatisfied. She wanted to gauge Brenna''s concern for Patrick. If she panicked, he could be used as leverage against her.


    Pointing toward the basement, Isabe widened her eyes in mock surprise. "That little boy? I saw him chasing a shiny crystal ball with a girl there. They must have wandered into the basement."


    Her innocent gaze noted Brenna''s genuine worry for Patrick.


    Brenna couldn''t quite read Isabe''s intent. She believed Isabe wouldn''t harm a child from the Russell family. Maybe she hadn''t recognized Patrick earlier.


    But she remembered Isabe seeing Patrick following her. Was Isabe pretending not to know him?


    However, now was not the time to think about this. Brenna bolted to the basement door.


    The weight of the industrial fire door exined everything. It was simply too heavy for children to open.


    Brenna yanked it open. Inside, two frightened children huddled together.


    Patrick held Zoe''s trembling hand and said, "Don''t worry. My godmother wille rescue us."


    Zoe''s face was streaked with tears, her face ghostly pale. She was even more frightened than Patrick.


    As the door swung open, light spilled in from outside. Patrick squeezed Zoe''s hand and said, "See? I told you


    she woulde. Don''t cry anymore."


    Jade and Isabe watched from the corridor as Brenna knelt andforted


    Patrick. A wordless exchange passed between them before they went back to the meal.


    Brenna examined the door. There were no signs of tampering. It was just too heavy for children.


    In the courtyard, Jayceon ushered Patrick into the spotlight, where Barton proudly dered him a member of the Russell family before the gathered crowd.


    Brenna''s jaw clenched. Ellie had firmly rejected marriage and made it clear she had no intention of changing Patrick''s surname. Yet Jayceon had taken it upon himself to im Patrick as a member of the Russell family, entirely without Ellie''s consent. Now, he even dared to change the boy''sst name.


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    Under the weight of so many eyes, Patrick squirmed. Ellie had told him he would carry the Moore family name. But his grandmother insisted he carry the Russell family name.


    He didn''t know whom to listen to.


    His uncertain gaze flitted to Jayceon as echoes of Ellie''s and Tori''s words shed


    in his mind. Ellie had rejected his return to the Russell family but still supported his right to their legacy.


    As the guests left, Jayceon kept a firm grip on Patrick''s hand. "He will stay with us for a few days," he said to


    Brenna.


    Brenna didn''t protest. She turned and left, Ethan by her side.


    On the way home, Brenna forwarded Ellie the video of Patrick''s formal recognition.


    "Jayceon has gone too far!" Ellie''s voice burst through the phone, crackling with fury. "I already shut down that ridiculous surname change idea days ago! All members of the Russell family are vipers. They will swallow my


    son whole without blinking!"


    "What are you nning to do?" Brenna asked, her voiceced with concern. "I just left the Russell family estate. Should I turn around and bring Patrick back with me?"


    She heard the sound of a door closing on Ellie''s end.


    "There is no need. I''ll go myself," Ellie replied. "You are just Patrick''s godmother and don''t have legal guardianship. It wouldn''t be appropriate, and let''s face it, the Russell family won''t just hand him over. I''ll deal


    with them myself."


    Brenna nodded. "Just be careful. The Russell family members are all shrewd."


    After the call ended, Ethan tentatively reached for Brenna''s hand and said, "The Russell family is a den of vipers, full ofpeting siblings. The internal strife is fierce. Patrick is not ready to step into that snake pit."


    Brenna''s brows drew together. "Is Jayceon using Patrick as a pawn for the inheritance?"


    Ethan shook his head without hesitation. "I don''t think so."


    Just then, Ethan''s phone rang. He nced at the screen, and his expression immediately shifted, bracing himself for a scolding.


    Brenna nced at his phone and could almost feel Elsa''s fury radiating from the screen.


    Ethan answered the call with forced calm. "Hey, Mom."


    "Don''t call me Mom," Elsa snapped, her voiceced with rage. "I suppose I should address you and your girlfriend respectfully now."


    The volume of her voice stung Ethan''s ears, and he instinctively pulled the phone a few inches away. "I''lle back and exin everything. Today''s situation was just an ident. Brenna had no idea it would be you..."


    "Save your breath. I don''t want to hear your exnations." Elsa was genuinely furious. She had attended countless state functions but never as the entertainment at a socialite''s party.


    Following orders in the military was normal for her. But when she learned that Brenna had been the one who had asked for her to go there, she felt she had been yed.


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    "I won''t allow you two to be together," she dered.


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    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 286

    ?Chapter 286:


    Tommy walked up to the judges¡¯ table and handed them hisptop.


    Grabbing the microphone, he said, ¡°Good afternoon, everyone. I¡¯m Tommy McCoy, head of Night Studio. The first-ce work on disy is actually a design created by our studio¡¯s lead engineer, who won the prestigious Golden Wrench Award at an international engineeringpetition in Norview four years ago. The design ranking first is clearly our studio engineer¡¯s work in thatpetition.¡±


    A collective gasp rippled through the crowd, disbelief registering on every face.


    Rosie was the most stunned of all. She immediately shouted, ¡°Impossible! This is my¡­¡±


    She couldn¡¯t finish her sentence. It suddenly dawned on her that she had walked straight into Brenna¡¯s trap.


    She immediately recognized the second-ce entry number. It was Brenna¡¯s.


    If she were disqualified now, Brenna would effortlessly step into first ce.


    Rosie was speechless, shooting a resentful re in Brenna¡¯s direction.


    Brenna gave Rosie a subtle smile, waved casually, and sent a text to her.


    ¡°I hope you are enjoying the surprise.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s grip on her phone tightened as she read the message. Brenna knew that she had bought the design and had been setting up her downfall from the start.


    How had she not seen thising?


    Just then, another message lit up her screen¡ªa refund notification for the design purchase.


    Meanwhile, on stage, the judges carefully examined the contents of Tommy¡¯sptop and immediately contacted the Golden Wrench Award Global Committee in Norview to verify the im.


    Shortly after, the first-ce entry was officially disqualified.


    M0re detailz at g??l??ovels.??????


    After that, the judges moved into the final scoring phase.


    When the names were revealed next to their entry numbers, shock rippled through the crowd. The same people who had ridiculed Brenna and used the Harper Group of bias were now rendered speechless. Brenna¡¯s design was impable, earning a score far higher than the second-ce entry.


    The Harper Group executives, though not serving as judges, were present on the stage. Among them were Shepard and Ernst, who recognized both Brenna¡¯s and Rosie¡¯s entry numbers.


    As the situation unfolded, Shepard¡¯s disappointment in Ernst was palpable. He said, ¡°How could you allow thispetition to proceed without detecting the giarism? Or did you deliberately cover for Rosie?¡±


    Ernst had known that Rosie knew nothing about automotive design and would resort to deception topete.


    ¡°I have nothing to say. I¡¯m willing to step down as CEO of the Harper Group and transfer my shares to Brenna,¡± Ernst said, rising to his feet and leaving, his face cold as ice.


    He couldn¡¯t wrap his mind around how such an obvious case of giarism had gone unnoticed by thepetitionmittee.


    Who was really pulling the strings behind the scenes?


    .


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 Chapter 287

    ?Chapter 287:


    Was it Brenna?


    That seemed unlikely. She had never set foot in the Harper Group building, wasn¡¯t familiar with its executives, and had no idea who was even responsible for organizing thepetition.


    Moreover, he had been keeping an eye on her, and there was no indication that she had interfered with Harper Group¡¯s matters.


    Was there someone secretly helping Brenna?


    He couldn¡¯t make sense of the matter.


    That evening, the Harper family gathered at the house. Even Rosie, who had been kicked out, had to show up. Ableson¡¯s family was also present.


    They all sat on the sofa, eyes fixed on the agreement on the coffee table.


    Shepard¡¯s expression was grim as he said, ¡°ording to the terms of the agreement, if Brenna wins, Ernst will willingly give up his shares in the Harper Group, resign from the board, and step down as CEO. Rosie will also transfer her shares to Brenna. Everyone in the family is aware of this. Now, it¡¯s time to honor the agreement. Did you two bring the share transfer documents?¡±


    Ernst quietly ced a stack of signed papers on the coffee table. ¡°I have already signed them,¡± he said.


    Everyone turned to look at Rosie.


    Rosie didn¡¯t bring any documents. Tears welled in her eyes.


    She said, ¡°Isn¡¯t it enough that Brenna has already kicked me out of the house? Now you want to take my shares, too? How am I supposed to survive if I give up my shares? Moreover, my father owned shares in the Harper Group. Although I was just a child when he passed away, those shares should legally belong to me. Give me what is rightfully mine, and I¡¯ll fulfill my part in the agreement.¡±


    As Ernst watched Rosie cry like that, his heart sank with sorrow. The sympathy on his face was impossible to miss.


    New content avable now at g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s?c?m


    He turned his gaze toward Brenna, and his eyes quietly expressed disapproval. ¡°Brenna, once you acquire my shares, you¡¯ll be inheriting over a billion dors annually. That¡¯s a fortune for anyone, especially a young woman like you. With that amount, you could lead a life of luxury without ever having to work a day.¡±


    Brenna responded with a gentle smile, grasping his point before he could finish. She chose to remain silent, letting him continue.


    Ernst went on, ¡°Think about Rosie¡¯s situation¡ªrejected by everyone. She can¡¯t even call our parents Mom and Dad anymore. Isn¡¯t that just heartbreaking? How can you bear to strip her of everything now? As a member of the Harper family, you can¡¯t be so cruel.¡±


    The room was thick with disapproval as others quietly listened. Ableson, usually so reserved, couldn¡¯t hold back his emotions. He turned to Ernst and said, ¡°How could you still say something like that? It hase to my attention that Brenna had a recent encounter with some thugs. Please correct me if I¡¯m mistaken, but wasn¡¯t it Rosie who arranged for the thugs to harm Brenna?¡±


    Ableson¡¯s face was serious, carrying the weight of an elder¡¯s authority. He said, ¡°Have you considered what might have happened to Brenna if she hadn¡¯t been skilled in fighting? She and her friends would have been powerless against those thugs. Can you imagine the consequences?¡±


    .


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 Chapter 288

    ?Chapter 288:


    His tone grew more intense as he said, ¡°Do you understand how serious that is? Your focus seems solely fixated on Rosie. Aren¡¯t you overlooking Brenna¡¯s feelings? Honestly, I¡¯m beginning to question whether you truly are your mother¡¯s son. You are nothing like her!¡±


    Shepard¡¯s gaze hardened as he looked at his son, his expression etched with disappointment. ¡°You may choose to defend Rosie, but I cannot let anyone mistreat my daughter,¡± he said.


    Brenna replied firmly, ¡°She¡¯s just facing the consequences of her own actions. There¡¯s no reason for me to show her any mercy. If I forgave her now, do you think she would ever do the same for me?¡±


    Ernst, however, remained unaffected by the elder¡¯s words. He acknowledged Rosie¡¯s ws but saw that they were driven by her fear of losing everything, not by any ill intent.


    Losing shares in the Harper family wouldpletely sever her ties to the family.


    As a result, she would lose ess to the privileges that came with being part of the Harper family.


    With a sorrowful look, Ernst reassured Rosie, ¡°Regardless of their indifference, I am here for you. I may no longer be the CEO of the Harper Group, but I still have otherpanies. Together, we¡¯ll be fine.¡±


    Rosie acknowledged him with a nod, then fixed her gaze on Brenna, her eyes zing with resolve. Abruptly, she walked toward Brenna and knelt in front of her.


    She said, ¡°I admit that it was my mistake¡ªI never should have hired thugs to go after you. But your presence in the family left me with no other option, driving me to desperation. Before you returned to the family, I was the only one who was cherished by Mom and Dad. But after you returned, you spent every day defaming me in front of them. Then, one day, I couldn¡¯t tolerate it any longer, so I decided it was time to teach you a lesson.¡±


    As she offered her apology, it was tinged more with her own grievances than remorse. Tears streamed down her face.


    Fresh updates avable at ?@ln¦Ò¦Íe?s


    She continued, ¡°I¡¯m asking for your forgiveness. I will leave this family for good, giving you the chance to enjoy the love of the others. I won¡¯tpete for their attention anymore. I don¡¯t even have the right to ask for it. My parents are gone, and there¡¯s no one left who cares about me now. I deserve to be lonely!¡±


    Brenna¡¯s expression grew cold. She was impressed by Rosie¡¯s scheming, twisting the truth to make it seem like she had been forced into wrongdoing.


    She said, ¡°Really? So, by your logic, I should have just stayed away from my family? Left to struggle on my own, constantly tormented by the Barrett family, destined to serve them indefinitely? Would that be fair? If I had stayed away, you would have continued to receive my parents¡¯ affection without any interference from me. Is that the oue you desire? My mistake is in returning to the family, right?¡±


    Tears flowed uncontrobly down Rosie¡¯s face as if she were targeted by everyone in the room. Despite Brenna¡¯s words, she took them in silence, allowing herself to be seen as the victim here, even though Brenna might not have been at fault.


    Both Shepard and Ableson looked furious. Shepard, overwhelmed with anger, held back from speaking, knowing that expressing his thoughts might seem like he was mistreating Rosie. Rosie had already admitted her mistakes, and as a senior in the family, he knew it would be inappropriate for him to keep scolding her.


    It was obvious that Rosie was very cunning; she had put his daughter in danger. But now, she had made it look like she was the victim.


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 Chapter 289

    ?Chapter 289:


    This was truly outrageous.


    Ableson, with a firm tone, interjected, ¡°Enough of this act. Get on your feet.¡±


    He then gestured to Audrey.


    Audrey moved closer to pull Rosie up.


    ¡°I will remain kneeling until Brenna offers her forgiveness,¡± Rosie stubbornly dered.


    Unable to contain her frustration, Brennashed out at Rosie with a kick. ¡°I will never forgive you! You nned an attack on me with the thugs, yet here I am, unharmed, while Jay and his group, including you, the one who started it, were captured. Without Ernst¡¯s intervention through the Harper Group, you wouldn¡¯t even be out on bail. Listen closely, if you pull such tricks on me again, I won¡¯t bring the police into this. Instead, I¡¯ll have someone do the same to you. If you can handle it, keep targeting me.¡±


    Ernst was livid. He shot to his feet, ignoring everyone around him, and barked at Brenna, ¡°What nonsense are you talking about? If youy a hand on Rosie, don¡¯t me me for getting ruthless!¡±


    Brenna¡¯s frustration boiled over. ¡°When I was up against those thugs, did you worry about me? Thiago and I fought off dozens of people together. Did you once care if I made it out alive? Rosie plotted against me, and you let it slide. But now that I¡¯m fighting back, suddenly you¡¯re concerned about the matter? That¡¯s not fair!¡±


    For a moment, Ernst felt some guilt, but it vanished just as quickly. He said, ¡°Rosie is not like you. She doesn¡¯t know how to fight and can¡¯t defend herself. You¡¯re different. You can take down a group of men without getting hurt. She can¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Ernst, you make me sick.¡± Shepard pointed toward the door and eximed in anger, ¡°Get out! I can¡¯t believe you¡¯re my son.¡±


    Giselle looked at Ernst, her face filled with disappointment. ¡°Brenna is your sister. How can you say something like that?¡±


    G aln ove ls . has stories you¡¯ll love


    Rosie slowly picked herself up from the floor and walked over to Ernst. ¡°Ernst, don¡¯t turn against your family because of me. I¡¯m not worth it. I don¡¯t deserve to be loved¡­¡±


    The whole family stared at Rosie with strange expressions. How had they never seen this side of her before? She had made a serious mistake, yet somehow, she acted like she was the victim here.


    Audrey didn¡¯t bother even looking at Rosie. Standing by Brenna¡¯s side, she said to her, ¡°Don¡¯t let her get to you. Someone like her isn¡¯t worth it.¡±


    Rosie turned to Audrey with wounded eyes. ¡°Audrey, Brenna stole your fianc¨¦. Doesn¡¯t that bother you at all?¡±


    Audrey¡¯s gaze stayed cold. ¡°I have a boyfriend. I never had feelings for Ethan, and I never nned on marrying him.¡±


    Rosie was skeptical. She couldn¡¯t believe Audrey had no interest in someone as exceptional as Ethan. Maybe it was just bad timing. Sooner orter, Rosie believed Audrey woulde to see that no man couldpare to Ethan and fall for him.


    ¡°Leaving!¡± Ernst snapped. He was done with his family. In his eyes, no one cared that Rosie had lost her parents and that she had no one left to stand up for her now. One mistake, and she was cast aside and stripped of everything.


    .


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 Chapter 290

    ?Chapter 290:


    Brenna stepped in and blocked Rosie¡¯s path. ¡°You¡¯re not going anywhere. You still haven¡¯t transferred your shares to me. The agreement we signed is legally binding.¡±


    Rosie, who had hoped to slip away quietly, exploded in anger. ¡°I¡¯ve already lost everything. Do you want to drive me to my death? I¡¯m telling you now¡ªI¡¯m not handing over those shares. Let¡¯s see what you can do about it!¡±


    She shoved Brenna with all her strength, but Brenna didn¡¯t even move. ¡°If you¡¯re not handing over the shares, you are not leaving,¡± Brenna said.


    Ernst said through gritted teeth, ¡°If she gives up the shares, she¡¯ll have nothing left! Brenna, don¡¯t be so cruel.¡±


    ¡°When she hired thugs toe after me, she was cruel and didn¡¯t hold back. Why can¡¯t I treat her the same way?¡± Brenna retorted bluntly.


    Ernst and Rosie looked around at the rest of the Harper family, hoping someone would speak up for them. But not a single person did.


    Rosie took in the scene and seared it into memory. The Harper family was heartless. One day, she would make sure the Harper Group crumbled.


    With no other choice, Rosie made a phone call. Not long after, Rachael arrived, carrying a stack of documents.


    Rosie quickly signed her name to transfer her shares, then stormed out without looking back.


    ¡°Unbelievable!¡± Shepard red at Rosie¡¯s retreating figure. ¡°I cared for that girl all these years, only for her to be like this!¡±


    Ableson nodded. ¡°She really is a disappointment. I never imagined she¡¯d stoop so low and try to create tension between Audrey and Brenna over Ethan.¡±


    He then turned to Audrey. ¡°How long have you been in a rtionship?¡± he asked.


    Audrey smiled. ¡°It¡¯s been over three years. I¡¯ll bring my boyfriend over to meet you, Mom, and my brother when the time¡¯s right.¡±


    Your escape begins with g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s?????m


    Giselle sighed. ¡°No wonder Ethan kept his distance from Rosie. Maybe he saw through her from the start.¡±


    Brenna nced at the transfer papers on the table but didn¡¯t reach for them. Without a word, she turned and headed upstairs.


    But just as Brenna took a couple of steps, Giselle stopped her. ¡°We agreed the shares would go to you. Sign the documents. We¡¯re not like Ernst and Rosie. We keep our word.¡±


    Ableson walked over to Brenna, opened the signing area, and handed her the pen. ¡°Go ahead and sign. If Rosie ever dares to hurt you again, I¡¯ll make sure she faces legal consequences.¡±


    Without further ado, Brenna signed her name.


    She was now a shareholder of the Harper Group. From now on, she would be attending the Harper Group¡¯s shareholder meetings.


    The thought alone was satisfying.


    After spending so many years with the Barrett family, working day and night designing cars without ever receiving shares or even a proper sry, Brenna felt it was surreal to gain a stake in the Harper Group so easily.


    Would there really be dividends at the end of the year?


    .


    .


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 Chapter 291

    ?Chapter 291:


    Rosie lingered at the house¡¯s entrance, and Shepard¡¯s intense gaze followed her until she got into her car and drove away.


    Shepard realized it was crucial to hire a bodyguard for Brenna now. Choosing a female bodyguard became his priority, envisioning someone who could stick close to Brenna, apanying her everywhere¡ªeven to the restroom.


    He believed Rosie wouldn¡¯t give up so easily. A wave of disappointment swept over him as he thought about her. He med himself for raising someone like her, someone who had tried to harm his daughter.


    The memories of the hardships Brenna had faced while with the Barrett family weighed heavily on him. To his surprise, today he had seen the Barrett family¡¯s daughter at the Harper Group¡¯s prestigious design contest.


    How had the Barrett family managed to avoid bankruptcy? Who was in charge of handling the Barrett family? Could it be that Ernst was secretly providing them with support?


    He let out a coldugh, suspecting this must be true.


    From now on, Shepard decided he would take direct action against the Barrett family.


    Instead of taking Ernst¡¯s car, Rosie drove off in her own white car from the garage.


    A faint smile tugged at Brenna¡¯s lips, as she had been waiting for this moment ever since she had tampered with Rosie¡¯s car.


    With a surge of satisfaction, Brenna went upstairs.


    Giselle followed Brenna, wanting to offerfort.


    ¡°Oh, my dear, I am so sorry for not protecting you better. You¡¯ve suffered so much with the Barrett family, never having enough to eat or wear, and now, you have to face your cousin¡¯s betrayal. You truly deserve so much better,¡± Giselle said, her eyes filled with sorrowful tears.


    Brenna instinctively offered reassurance, saying, ¡°I¡¯m fine, aren¡¯t I? Don¡¯t worry about me.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s heart ached more intensely. ¡°How can a young woman like you withstand so many attackers on her own? Where did you acquire your great fighting skills? It seems you¡¯ve faced such dangers before. Your tragic experience happened¡­


    Because we lost you. You were meant to live afortable life, yet you were forced to endure suffering. My heart aches for you.¡±


    Nuevos cap¨ªtulos en g?ln¦Òv?ls


    Brenna responded with a gentle hug. In truth, it was through facing such trials that she had built her strength.


    She now came to realize the deep affection her parents held for her. They weed her wholeheartedly into the family.


    A feeling of warmth and reassurance washed over her, inspiring her to cherish her parents in the future.


    At the dinner table, Shepard asked about Brenna¡¯s studio and its potential integration with the Harper Group¡¯s design team.


    ¡°What are your thoughts? The design department manager told me that everyone was impressed with your work. Your personal entry won first ce, and your team secured second ce. Your contributions are remarkable. Would you consider joining the Harper Group with your entire team?¡±


    Brenna had thought about this beforehand and answered, ¡°Actually, Dad, my studio prefers to maintain its independence. We can draft a partnership with the Harper Group, but mergingpletely isn¡¯t possible. We¡¯remitted to several long-term contracts with otherpanies, whichplicates the matter of joining the Harper Group.¡±


    Shepard showed no disappointment; instead, he admired Brenna¡¯s wisdom. ¡°It¡¯s impressive how you¡¯ve managed to lead so many talented people at your age. I respect your decision. The Harper Group will happily proceed with just a partnership with your studio, just like the otherpanies.¡±


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 Chapter 292

    ?Chapter 292:


    In fact, the Harper Group wasn¡¯t short on talent, boasting numerous engineers, yet they were in need of high-end engineers and designers. Shepard even wanted to offer high sries to recruit outstanding engineers like those in Brenna¡¯s studio.


    Brenna nodded. ¡°I¡¯ll have Tommy handle this matter. He¡¯ll draft and finalize the agreement with the Harper Group.¡±


    Shepard asked with a hint of curiosity, ¡°What is the sry you offer to your engineers?¡±


    With a grin, Brenna responded, ¡°They receive high sries and significantmissions. The least anyone in my studio earns annually is a million.¡±


    Recognizing the difference, Shepard nodded thoughtfully. The engineers¡¯ sries at the Harper Group were nowhere near those numbers, with even the highest-paid one earning only half a million annually.


    ¡°You are really good to your employees,¡± he said.


    Offering a cautious reminder, Brenna said, ¡°Dad, please don¡¯t try to poach my people. It took me a lot of effort to find them and build them into a team.¡±


    Shepard let out a knowingugh, acknowledging to himself that he had indeed thought about recruiting Brenna¡¯s team members to join the Harper Group, particrly someone as talented as Tommy.


    Dayster, the Moreno family¡¯s case was scheduled for a public trial. Thiago extended an invitation to Brenna for the court session. Driving her blue car, Brenna arrived before nine.


    At the bottom of the steps, Thiago greeted her with a casual demeanor. As they walked up the steps together, Brenna asked, ¡°Is all the evidence in ce for today?¡±


    Thiago replied with a soft smile, ¡°We¡¯ve submitted everything, including proof of the drugging incident involving my mother. I¡¯m sparing no effort.¡±


    Brenna expressed her joy for him, saying, ¡°It¡¯s a relief your mother could get justice now.¡±


    Thiago¡¯s gratitude was clear as he spoke. ¡°Your help has been invaluable to me. Thanks to you and Mr. Mitchell¡¯s intervention, everything proceeded smoothly. Let me treat you both to a meal as a token of my appreciation sometime. Just tell me when you and Mr. Mitchell are free.¡±


    Brenna readily agreed. When they entered the courtroom, it was already filled with attendees, including women who had been wronged by Han and their supportive rtives.


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    In the audience, many seats were filled by families, mostly parents in their fifties and sixties who hade to support their daughters.


    Brenna noticed how modestly they were dressed. Their clothes were simple, and their faces showed the wear of years spent enduring life¡¯s hardships. Some had traveled a long way just to witness the sentencing of the Moreno family.


    A family of three, seated closest to the aisle, stood and thanked Thiago. The woman, in her fifties and wearing a faded id shirt, had tears streaming down her cheeks. ¡°Thank you, Mr. Moreno. Without you, we might never have seen that monster face justice. My daughter carried the weight of her pain alone for so long.¡±


    Thiago stepped forward and gently replied, ¡°You don¡¯t have to thank me. I¡¯m the one who should thank you for having the courage to testify. Just like your daughter, I¡¯m a victim, too. And together, we¡¯ll make sure that despicable family pays for everything they¡¯ve done to us.¡±


    The woman nodded and dabbed at her tears with a tissue. Standing quietly behind her was a girl with long hair, her face hidden behind a ck mask andrge sunsses.


    Though her features were concealed, her outfit hinted at someone once full of confidence and beauty.


    Brenna guessed the girl had likely endured serious emotional trauma at the hands of the Moreno family, the kind that left deep,sting scars. That was why she was refusing to show her face.


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    ?Chapter 293:


    Other families in the audience also came forward, each expressing their gratitude to Thiago in their own way.


    However, not everyone found the strength toe here. Some who had been hurt chose to remain silent, still unable to face the matter.


    After a while, Thiago and Brenna took their seats in the front row and quietly waited for the trial to begin.


    Soon, the judge entered the courtroom, took his seat, and officially announced the start of the trial.


    Roberto, Jovie, and Han were brought out, nked by armed personnel and dressed in prison uniforms. Roberto and Han had their hair cropped short and looked unkempt, yet they still carried themselves with arrogance. Their eyes brazenly swept over the audience without a hint of shame.


    Han was the worst of the three. He didn¡¯t look the least bit concerned about being sentenced. When he spotted the victims among the crowd, he even sneered, his gaze filled with contempt.


    Jovie camest. Her long hair was pulled back with a in hairband, and she wore no makeup. Whatever charm and sophistication she had once unted had long faded. She now looked like an ordinary woman past her prime.


    The three of them still clung to the belief that their troubles were merely financial. In their minds, a fine would be enough for them to walk free.


    But when they spotted Thiago seated in the front row, they realized that things were about to go terribly wrong for them.


    The victims¡¯ families, furious at Han¡¯s smug arrogance, couldn¡¯t hold back any longer. Shouts erupted across the courtroom. Some even rushed forward,nding punches and kicks on Han before the guards could intervene.


    The judge banged the gavel several times. ¡°If you don¡¯t remain quiet, you¡¯ll be removed from the courtroom.¡±


    Only then did the crowd settle down and slowly return to their seats.


    Your next tale lives on g ? ln¦Ò ¦Í?? ?s,


    Roberto didn¡¯t know that most of the families in attendance were there to testify against Han. The ones he did recognize were residents who had been harmed during one of the Moreno family¡¯s brutal demolition projects.


    At the very front sat a grieving family¡ªan elderly couple in their seventies and a young woman in her early twenties.


    During the incident, the son of the family had been beaten to death by the demolition team. Not long after, his wife had taken her own life. Now, only the aging couple and their granddaughter remained in the family.


    ¡°You bastard! Give me back my son and daughter-inw!¡± the elderly man bellowed while pointing at Roberto with a trembling finger.


    However, Roberto showed no remorse. In his mind, he had already paidpensation for the demolition. If they had refused to move, that was their fault. Getting beaten was just a consequence of their stubbornness.


    He stood at the defendant¡¯s stand, looking unbothered. His chin was even lifted with arrogance.


    Meanwhile, Han let his gaze drift toward the rows of girls who hade to testify. Only one stood out in his memory¡ªa girl with a stunning figure and a soft, innocent face. He had tormented her for three days and nights, dragging in his friends and filming every moment.


    The memory was vivid in his mind.


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    She had never given her consent. And afterward, he had tossed ten thousand at her and told her to disappear.


    The girl came from a poor family with no money or influence.


    She had reported Han to the police, but he had connections. Not only had he walked free, but he had also turned the tables and threatened her. If she didn¡¯t stay quiet, her entire family would pay the price.


    The girl had even been detained for two weeks.


    The whole thing was buried and forgotten until Thiago found the girl. Her family had agreed to testify at once.


    Han finally understood why so many victims were in the courtroom. His eyes snapped to Thiago, and he barked, ¡°You brought them here, didn¡¯t you? You¡¯re part of the Moreno family, too. Do you enjoy watching your own family fall apart?¡±


    Roberto turned to Thiago as well and red at him. ¡°You ungrateful brat. I¡¯m your father. He¡¯s your brother. And this is how you treat your family, bringing us down?¡±


    All eyes in the courtroom shifted toward Thiago, including the judge¡¯s. Thiago stayed calm and seated as he said to Roberto, ¡°Oh, now you remember you¡¯re my father? You had the love and support of my mother as you built your career. And how did you repay her? You betrayed her with her own sister. When she discovered the affair, not only did you deny your actions, but you also hit her. Even after she left you, you continued to target her. Do you truly think you deserve to be my father?¡±


    Roberto¡¯splexion turned ashen as he cast nervous nces around the room. It was clear from the disgusted looks he received that he was now viewed as despicable.


    The crowd, made up mostly of victims, had no trouble believing Thiago¡¯s ount.


    ¡°Such a jerk!¡±


    ¡°Scumbag!¡±


    Echoes of anger rose from the audience.


    Roberto paid no attention to the people from less privileged backgrounds. Their insults didn¡¯t faze him in the slightest. He turned his focus back to Thiago and retorted sharply, ¡°Your mother brought her downfall upon herself. Why did she hold onto the Moreno Group¡¯s shares so desperately? If she hadn¡¯t been so greedy, would I have done what I did? And you, you brat, I am your father; how dare you treat me like this? I will kill you when I am out of here!¡±


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    His menacing words led the judge to strike the gavel, eximing, ¡°Mind your words!¡±


    The security personnel also intervened, saying to Roberto, ¡°Shut up.¡±


    Roberto threw a scornful look at the judge and acted as if the guards weren¡¯t even there. He kept his attention locked on Thiago, his voice rising with fury. ¡°Listen to me. Plenty havee at me, thinking they could bring me down, and everyst one of them failed. You really believe you can pull it off with your schemes and the people you¡¯ve gathered?¡±


    His tone was defiant.


    Thiago had known Roberto long enough to expect such a reaction from him. He said, ¡°We¡¯ll find out soon enough whether I can bring you down or not. You¡¯re cing all your hopes on the Vargas family, but maybe no one has told you yet¡ª


    The Deputy Mayor has already been removed from office. Word is, someone high up, a man named Ewing Sandoval, was taken down in connection with this, too. Are you still so sure you¡¯ll walk out of here a free man now?¡±


    Caught off guard, Roberto stared at Thiago, his voice incredulous. ¡°You know about Mr. Sandoval?¡±


    After a moment¡¯s reflection, he vehemently denied the possibility. ¡°Impossible! You¡¯re just trying to intimidate me, you little brat. It seems you weren¡¯t disciplined enough when you were a child. I should have beaten you more.¡±


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    Brenna observed Thiago¡¯s hands quiver slightly. Despite his outward confidence, he was visibly nervous.


    She gently took the pile of documents from Thiago¡¯s hands, located the notice about Ewing Sandoval¡¯s suspension, and approached Roberto to show him that.


    The notice was explicit and carried the official stamp from the authorities.


    Roberto stared at the notice for an extended period, hisplexion growing paler as he whispered repeatedly, ¡°Impossible¡­¡±


    Withposure, Brenna said, ¡°Over the past seven years, Thiago has been collecting evidence to seek justice for his mother. He didn¡¯t overlook those who protected you, either. He has also amassed evidence against Ewing¡¯s crimes. Mr. Moreno, thew won¡¯t let you slip through its grasp this time.¡±


    Roberto¡¯splexion turned ghostly white, and he slumped back into his chair.


    At that instant, Han and Jovie, positioned at the adjacent defendant stands, were simrly taken aback. They were well aware that Ewing was the Moreno family¡¯s protector.


    It was evident to them that the Moreno family was facing disaster now that Ewing had been brought down.


    Thiago moved to the intiffs¡¯ stand with deliberate steps, marking the official start of the trial.


    During the proceedings, Thiagoid out extensive evidence before the court, including testimonies, photographs, videos, and numerous witnesses.


    In the end, the court found all three Moreno family members guilty.


    ¡°Congrattions, you¡¯ve sessfully sought justice for your mother. She would be so proud of you,¡± Brenna said to Thiago on the courthouse steps.


    Thiago responded, ¡°I must also express gratitude towards Mr. Mitchell. His assistance was crucial in swiftly gathering the evidence against Ewing, which led¡­


    to the downfall of the Moreno family. I¡¯ll make sure to treat you and Mr. Mitchell to a meal once this is all settled.¡±


    After a brief conversation, Brenna¡¯s phone rang. She checked it and saw Rosie calling.


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    With a soft chuckle, Brenna answered the call, only to be met with Rosie¡¯s furious voice.


    ¡°Brenna, I know you hate me, but do you really have to go as far as trying to kill me? Tell me, did you tamper with my white car¡¯s brakes?¡±


    Her voice was filled with both certainty and anger. Brenna could distinctly hear the noise of things being hurled on Rosie¡¯s end, along with the voices of two girls attempting to soothe her.


    Standing on the courthouse steps, Brenna crossed her arms, observing the passersby while speaking to Rosie in a casual tone. ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Did something happen?¡±


    She pretended to be clueless.


    At the brink of losing herposure, Rosie yelled, ¡°Stop pretending you don¡¯t know anything about this! I¡¯m sure you sabotaged my brake pads. And was thest car ident I was involved in also your doing? You have the audacity to do such things butck the courage to own up to them, don¡¯t you?¡±


    Brenna continued to y dumb. ¡°I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about. Could you be more specific? What¡¯s going on with you?¡± she said.


    Rosie was seething with anger while Sylvie and Vivian shook their heads in frustration, pacing restlessly around the room.


    Rosie finally snapped, ¡°Are you seriously pretending you know nothing about this? Yesterday, I left the house in my car, and not long after, I collided with a dump truck at the intersection. The front of my car was totaled, and both of my legs are broken!¡±


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    Brenna wasn¡¯t the least bit surprised. She had already seen the news onlinest night about the horrific collision at Elm Street and instantly recognized Rosie¡¯s white car in the photos.


    However, she hadn¡¯t mentioned it to anyone and wasn¡¯t sure if the Harper family members had seen the news.


    At breakfast this morning, no one in the Harper family had mentioned the matter, so she assumed they were still unaware of it.


    ¡°Oh, that sounds incredibly serious. Which hospital are you at? I¡¯lle visit you right away,¡± Brenna said, her voice dripping with feigned concern.


    In reality, a satisfied smile yed on her lips. She was quite pleased with the situation.


    Rosie was beside herself with rage. Since the ident, only Ernst had bothered to call andfort her, but he was swamped with meetings across his various businesses and couldn¡¯t spare the time to visit her. With no family around to help, Rosie had to rely solely on Sylvie and Vivian, who took turns looking after her.


    The phone was on speaker, and Sylvie was boiling over, itching to confront Brenna face-to-face.


    She said to Rosie, ¡°Give her the address and let here. The three of us will settle the score with her when she is here!¡±


    Having heard every word, Brenna wasted no time and immediately agreed, saying, ¡°I¡¯ll be right over. After all, we are cousins. It¡¯s only right for me to check on you. By the way, should I let the rest of the Harper family know about your predicament?¡±


    She paused briefly, then added, ¡°You¡¯ve done plenty of awful thingstely. Maybe this is karma finally catching up to you?¡±


    Rosie abruptly disconnected the call, sending Brenna the address before tossing the phone aside in frustration. Shey helplessly in bed, bandages wrapped around her forehead, a painful gash on her cheek, and bruises scattered all over her body. She was truly in a sorry state. Sylvie and Vivian both believed that Rosie had narrowly escaped death this time.


    The two were fuming with rage, clenching their teeth in hatred toward Brenna. They had suffered twice at her hands, and Rosie had nearly lost her life twice because of her.


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    Brenna looked every bit the picture of beauty and grace, but her actions were cold and ruthless.


    Vivian gazed out the window, her expression darkening with anger. ¡°Brenna has gone way too far this time! We need to teach her a lesson she¡¯ll never forget,¡± she said.


    Turning abruptly toward Sylvie, she added, ¡°I can¡¯t tolerate her behavior anymore. She ispletely out of control. She even had the nerve to sabotage Rosie¡¯s brake pads! She clearly wants Rosie dead.¡±


    Sylvie understood that and had been thinking the same thing. ¡°You¡¯re right. But she¡¯s so skilled. Even Jay and his crew couldn¡¯t take her down,¡± she said.


    Vivian¡¯s heart pounded. ¡°Then let¡¯s go to the police. My dad has a good rtionship with the police chief. I don¡¯t believe she can escape thew forever.¡±


    Recalling her own experience of being bailed out, Rosie said, ¡°We probably won¡¯t get her thrown in jail for good, but we could have her detained for a few hours. That will tell her that we are not to be messed with.¡±


    Sylvie and Vivian exchanged nces before nodding in agreement. ¡°Yes! Let¡¯s do it. I¡¯ll call the police right now. Once she gets here, we will make her talk and record every word!¡±


    Without hesitation, the trio set their n into motion.


    Sylvie¡¯s eyes darkened with determination. ¡°If that doesn¡¯t work, we will mess with her brake pads, too.¡±


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    ?Chapter 297:


    Before long, Brenna arrived at the hospital, carrying flowers.


    At the hospital room door, Brenna took a moment to touch up her makeup, adding more charm to her already striking appearance. Without so much as a knock, she pushed the door open and stepped inside.


    A strange sense of satisfaction washed over Brenna when she saw Rosie lying on the hospital bed. ¡°Your injuries look pretty serious,¡± she remarked.


    Rosie and her two friends seethed with hatred, their anger bubbling beneath the surface, each secretly wishing they could tear Brenna apart right then and there.


    Brenna greeted Sylvie and Vivian, who looked like they had recovered well. She hadn¡¯t seen them since the incident at the Imperial Bar. Brenna asked sweetly, ¡°How have you two been holding uptely?¡±


    Sylvie and Vivian¡¯s anger red even more fiercely as they vividly recalled their humiliating apology to Brenna at the Imperial Bar. Sylvie¡¯s tone was ice-cold as she replied, ¡°We¡¯re doing just fine. But tell me, Brenna¡ªdid you tamper with Rosie¡¯s brake pads?¡±


    Although Brenna was unaware that the three were secretly recording the conversation, she remained cautious. ¡°Tamper with her brake pads? What are you talking about?¡±


    Sylvie¡¯s temper red. ¡°Rosie¡¯s ident happened because her brakes failed! She couldn¡¯t stop at the intersection when the light turned red and mmed her car straight into a dump truck.¡±


    Brenna widened her eyes in feigned shock. ¡°No wonder the ident was so serious. She actually crashed into a dump truck?¡±


    Rosie felt her blood boil. Brenna was obviously behind the matter, yet she continued to act clueless.


    Gritting her teeth, Rosie snapped, ¡°You¡¯re still ying innocent? My car was parked safely at home. It was in perfect condition thest time I drove it, so why would it suddenly malfunction this time? My car is a luxury model worth millions, built with the highest safety standards. It wouldn¡¯t just break down on its own like this. You must have tampered with it! Just admit it!¡±


    Brenna clicked her tongue twice. ¡°You¡¯re lucky to have survived. Be more careful next time,¡± she said.


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    To be exact, Rosie had walked away alive from two car idents. She was indeed lucky.


    Brenna looked at Rosie, who was on the hospital bed, a yful glint in her eye. At least for the next three months, she thought, Rosie wouldn¡¯t be causing any more trouble for her.


    She then looked over at Sylvie and Vivian. ¡°Don¡¯t you think I¡¯m right?¡±


    Sylvie and Vivian were so frustrated. No matter how many times they tried to trick Brenna into admitting she had tampered with the brake pads, she just kept dodging the question. It was maddening.


    Vivian shot Brenna a hard look and instinctively replied, ¡°Yeah, she is quite lucky. But next time, who knows?¡±


    She instantly regretted saying those words. Had she just jinxed Rosie into another crash?


    ¡°Forget I said that!¡± she quickly added.


    Brenna chuckled lightly. There was something oddly satisfying about watching the three of them stew in their frustration. They were clearly fed up, but they couldn¡¯t do a thing about her. She loved the look of irritation and helplessness on their faces.


    She said, ¡°Is there anything else you want to say? If not, I¡¯m leaving.¡±


    Rosie hadn¡¯t gotten what she wanted, so she wasn¡¯t about to let Brenna leave just yet. ¡°We¡¯re not done here. Who said you could go?¡± she said.


    Brenna arched an eyebrow, her patience thinning. ¡°What more do you want? I don¡¯t have time to waste on you.¡±


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    ?Chapter 298:


    Rosie stared at the flowers Brenna had brought. They were cheap andmon. Brenna was the daughter of the rich Harper family, yet she had brought her something so cheap. It was evident she looked down on her.


    Rosie¡¯s irritation deepened. She wanted to make things difficult for Brenna.


    ¡°I want to eat an apple. Peel it for me,¡± she said.


    Brenna didn¡¯t refuse. She picked up an apple from the bedside table and peeled it.


    In no time, it was done, and she handed it to Rosie.


    But Rosie didn¡¯t take it. ¡°How am I supposed to eat such a big apple? Cut it into small pieces for me.¡±


    Standing off to the side, Rachael caught on to what Rosie was doing and let out a quietugh.


    Brenna shoved the apple into Rosie¡¯s hand. ¡°I am not doing that. I¡¯m not your maid.¡±


    Rosie scowled. ¡°What kind of attitude is that? You¡¯re so rude.¡± Without a word, Rachael took the apple, cut it into neat pieces, and ced them in a container for Rosie.


    But Rosie had already lost interest in the apple. Her anger had smothered whatever appetite she had.


    Brenna just turned and left without another word. The moment she stepped out of the hospital, her phone buzzed with a message from Ellie.


    ¡°I¡¯ve almost sorted everything out. Turns out it was all a setup. I¡¯m packing now. My flight¡¯s in two days. How¡¯s the house hunting? Don¡¯t tell me you cked off and didn¡¯t help me find one.¡±


    Brenna replied, ¡°My parents gave me several houses. I saved the biggest one for you. Two hundred square meters. How¡¯s that? You don¡¯t have to pay rent at all.¡±


    ¡°You are the best! By the way, how¡¯s Jayceon doing?¡± Ellie responded.


    When she saw the message, Brenna pouted. It was obvious to her that Ellie still hadn¡¯t fully moved on from Jayceon. Maybe they would end up back together soon.


    Brenna replied, ¡°I don¡¯t know. Haven¡¯t seen him aroundtely. But during the Harper Group¡¯s designpetition awards, someone said he went abroad. No idea if he¡¯s back now. Why do you ask? Thinking of getting back together with him? He doesn¡¯t deserve you.¡±


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    Ellie responded, ¡°It¡¯s not like that. It¡¯s just my son won¡¯t quit asking for his father. Every time he sees other kids with fathers, he pesters me about it. I¡¯m about to lose it.¡±


    Brenna replied, ¡°There are plenty of men out there. How about¡­¡±


    ¡°You are right! How about you let me use Mr. Mitchell?¡± Ellie replied.


    Brenna didn¡¯t miss a beat. ¡°Sorry. I don¡¯t let others use my cars or my man. But Thiago¡­ he might make a decent stand-in dad.¡±


    ¡°Absolutely not!¡± Ellie fired back. ¡°Anyone but him. Even Joe or Tommy would be better.¡±


    ¡°What did Thiago ever do to you? Why are you so dead set against him?¡± Brenna asked.


    ¡°ying dumb, huh? Just remember to pick me up in two days. And don¡¯t let your man know I¡¯m back,¡± Ellie responded.


    ¡°Alright,¡± Brenna replied.


    Brenna made her way back to her studio in the Financial Building. Inside, everyone was working hard. Tommy stood behind one of the engineers, pointing out something on a screen as they discussed design tweaks.


    As Brenna walked in, the team turned and greeted her with smiles.


    Brenna¡¯s studio, apart from herself, was made up of twenty people, all top-tier in their fields. She had no doubt about that. Otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t offer such high sries to them.


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    ?Chapter 299:


    ¡°Thanks for all your hard work,¡± Brenna said to everyone.


    Tommy followed her into the office to report something. ¡°Remember a year ago, we designed that helicopter and fighter jet for our military client? Mr. Foster reached out today. He said the enemy¡¯s system has been upgraded. It¡¯s a lot like ours and very powerful. He wants us to develop a new one. They¡¯re also asking for a more advanced fighter jet. Looks like a big job, and the payout should be good.¡±


    Brenna tapped her fingers lightly against the desk. ¡°I¡¯ll take charge of both projects myself. You handle the pricing. Set the system at seventy million. The fighter jet goes for two hundred million.¡±


    Brenna sat across from Tommy as he poured her a fresh cup of coffee and slid it across the table. ¡°Braeden wants to meet and go over the details,¡± he said.


    Brenna nodded. ¡°That¡¯s fine. We need a clear understanding of the client¡¯s requirements before designing. I¡¯m avable to meet him anytime,¡± she replied.


    Tommy admired her unwavering confidence. She was a force to be reckoned with.


    He said, ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll get in touch with Braeden and arrange a meeting. If we secure these two projects, I¡¯ll assign a few people to help you with theponent designs. A fighter jet consists of tens of thousands of parts, making it impossible for one person to handle the entire design. Teamwork is essential forpleting the project efficiently.¡±


    After hashing out a few more details, Tommy added, ¡°By the way, someone has been trying to poach our staff. Three employees mentioned they were invited out for dinners, and apparently, the offers thrown at them were hard to resist. I think they are indirectly asking for raises.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s face remainedposed, though a flicker of displeasure crossed her eyes. ¡°People will do what they will, and we can¡¯t control everything. I have already offered them good sries. If they want to leave, let them.¡±


    Tommy realized Brenna had no intention of raising the sries. After all, even junior engineers at their firm earned a million per year, and as a supervisor, he was already making close to ten million annually, plus year-end bonuses. Such generous pay was already rare, even among publicly listedpanies.


    He said, ¡°I understand. People are always eager to climb the careerdder, and I won¡¯t stand in their way. Moreover, those three are at the bottom of the rank in our studio. If they leave, they won¡¯t make it big elsewhere. In argerpany, they won¡¯t rise to a supervisory position. I¡¯ll try to talk some sense into them.¡±


    ???????????? ?????????????? @ ?????????¦Í?????????????


    Brenna nodded. Those with skills far beyond the three were already earning much more, and no bigpany would offer such generous sries. Therefore, the truly high-caliber talent in their studio wouldn¡¯t be easily poached.


    ¡°However, if they do leave, we will be short-handed. Brenna, why don¡¯t we recruit a few more people? There are some excellent postgraduates from Shirie University. I have a list right here. If you agree, I¡¯ll reach out to them,¡± Tommy said, his eyes lighting up with excitement.


    After a pause, he continued, ¡°I have been keeping an eye on these postgraduates for some time now. They stood out during their undergraduate years and even took home international awards. Our studio has worked closely with their mentor, who has given glowing rmendations for these five.¡±


    Brenna agreed, saying, ¡°Okay. I¡¯m not afraid to offerpetitive sries, but I¡¯m just worried we won¡¯t find real talent. Go ahead and contact them.¡±


    Brenna hadplete confidence in Tommy¡¯s judgment. Not only was his design work exceptional, but his business instincts were sharp as well. He had recruited half of the studio¡¯s staff, and as time went by, his excellence was proven.


    It was the weekend, and since Giselle didn¡¯t have any sses to teach, she took the opportunity to wake Brenna up early.


    Brenna had been upte the night before, fine-tuning a helicopter system she hadn¡¯t finished. Now, exhaustion weighed her down, and she groaned, burying her face deeper into the pillow. ¡°Please, just let me sleep a little longer,¡± she said.


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    Giselle nced at theputer screen where lines of code were still running. She didn¡¯t understand the technical details but knew better than to touch anything.


    She said, ¡°There is an auction today, and a diamond tiara once worn by the Queen of Orwall is up for bid. I thought I¡¯d buy it for you aspensation for everything you¡¯ve been through recently. Are you interested?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s drowsiness vanished in an instant after she heard that. She threw off the covers and sat up, eyes shining with excitement. ¡°Really? It belonged to the Queen of Orwall before?¡±


    She had only seen the diamond tiara in magazines. It was stunningly luxurious with a distinctive design, truly one of a kind in the world. What made it even more special was that she had met the Queen of Orwall once and felt a special connection to her. Honestly, she really wanted to own that diamond tiara.


    ¡°That¡¯s fantastic! I¡¯ll get up right now!¡± Brenna said.


    Giselle replied with a smile, ¡°I¡¯ll be waiting for you downstairs.¡±


    At exactly ten in the morning, Brenna and Giselle arrived at Shirie¡¯srgest underground auction house.


    This auction house was far from ordinary. The items up for bid were often of questionable origin and carried staggering price tags. Moreover, the items were extremely diverse, even including some prohibited goods.


    Brenna found it intriguing that someone as influential as Giselle not only knew about this ce but had also chosen toe here. As expected, Giselle didn¡¯t exin the true nature of the auction house to Brenna, letting her assume it was entirely legitimate.


    They showed their passes to the staff members, who nodded and led them inside without a hitch.


    The Legacy Auction House featured a different number of items each time, making it unpredictable. From the preview disyed at the entrance of Hall One, Brenna caught a quick glimpse of the items. Alongside the famed diamond tiara once worn by the Queen of Orwall, there was also a rare medicinal herb she had been searching for over the past few years.


    The nt was known as Woodham. It had remarkable cardiovascr benefits, with every part of it possessing potent medicinal properties.


    g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s, the ce for amazing tales


    However, it was exceptionally scarce and nearly impossible to obtain.


    Brenna noticed that the opening bid for Woodham was set at ten million. She ced a bidding budget of three hundred million with the auction house.


    Giselle didn¡¯t ask her anything about it. Without a word, she followed suit, registering funds to bid on the tiara.


    ¡°You silly child, save your money. As long as I¡¯m here, you won¡¯t need to spend a single cent,¡± Giselle chided Brenna as she quietly transferred a hefty sum into Brenna¡¯s ount.


    Brenna sighed to herself. When she had been part of the Barrett family, she had never had enough money and barely made enough to cover basic living costs. But now, things were different. She didn¡¯t even have the chance to spend money.


    Just when she thought she could finally splurge a little, Giselle transferred more money to her ount.


    ¡°Mom, I have money,¡± Brenna said. ¡°You don¡¯t have to give me any.¡±


    Giselle threw her a side nce and said, ¡°As long as I¡¯m here, it¡¯s not your turn to spend.¡±


    They then stepped into a private room¡ªRoom 7.


    Most buyers at this auction preferred to keep their identities hidden. Unlike traditional auction houses that held events in open halls, this one operated in a semi-enclosed space.


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    The auctioneer and items were in the center, surrounded by private rooms for buyers. Each room featured one-way ss, allowing upants a clear view of the main hall. However, people outside couldn¡¯t see inside these rooms, guaranteeing total privacy for the buyers.


    The private rooms werepact, barely five square meters, with just enough space for two seats facing the ss.


    Brenna, who knew the ce quite well, saw a rare emerald bracelet on the disy stand. She immediately thought it would perfectly match her mother¡¯s refined style.


    Since returning to the Harper family, she hadn¡¯t yet purchased any gifts for her parents. She wanted to use the three hundred million she had transferred to the auction house to buy her mother that bracelet.


    In Room 16, Ethan sat beside Neville, both men waiting calmly as the auction was about to begin.


    Neville said in a low voice, ¡°Mr. Mitchell, I saw Viper downstairs with Miss Mendoza. They are also here to bid for the Orwall Queen¡¯s diamond tiara.¡±


    Ethan gave a slight nod, his brow knitting together. He remained silent, his sharp gaze locked onto the auctioneer and the empty tform at the hall¡¯s center.


    ¡°Go and add another two hundred million for me,¡± Ethan instructed in a measured tone.


    Neville instantly understood what Ethan meant. ¡°Yes, sir. Viper¡¯s wealth is not to be taken lightly. He is also known for showering women withvish gifts. He might go to extremes for Miss Mendoza.¡± He slipped out of the room after saying that.


    A few minutester, he returned just as the auction officially began.


    The first items went quickly, each fetching a few million without much fanfare.


    The sixth item was that exquisite emerald bracelet. The starting bid was thirty million, with each increase set at one million.


    As soon as the bracelet was announced, a beautiful attendant entered, carrying it on a velvet-lined tray. She moved from room to room, pausing at each one for about twenty seconds, giving buyers a clear view of the piece through the one-way ss.


    Brenna studied the bracelet, a smile tugging at her lips. Turning to Giselle, she said, ¡°Mom, I think this bracelet suits you perfectly.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s eyes sparkled when she saw the bracelet. She clearly liked it. She already had plenty of jewelry¡ªpearls, jade, diamonds, and various gemstones¡ªand her jewelry box was practically overflowing. Each piece was valuable.


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    However, she understood that her daughter¡¯s words came from the heart, and she nodded with a warm smile. ¡°I like it.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s thoughtfulness in wanting to buy her a gift showed that she had truly epted Giselle and Shepard. Touched to the core, Giselle nearly burst into tears and pulled her daughter into a tight, emotional hug.


    Even though the money came from her, a warm sense of joy blossomed in her heart.


    The bidding began, and thepetition for the bracelet was fierce. Each raise added another million, and in no time, the bracelet¡¯s price shot up to seventy million.


    Soon, only three bidders remained in the running.


    The contenders were from Room 7, Room 23, and Room 27.


    Brenna ced her bid. ¡°Ny million!¡±


    The microphone system in each room masked the voices, ensuring no one could even tell whether the bidder was male or female. Room 23 wasted no time and¡­


    Room 23 countered, ¡°One hundred million!¡± Room 27 bowed out, leaving just Brenna and the bidder from Room 23 locked in a bidding war.


    The emerald bracelet was of exceptional quality, an item so rare and exquisite that only a handful like it existed in the world.


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    Driven by the desire to win it for her mother, Brenna raised the stakes with a bold bid of two hundred million. Finally, the bidder in Room 23 gave up.


    The next item up for bid was a rather unremarkable piece.


    Brenna wasn¡¯t interested in the item, so she took the opportunity to deposit another two hundred million with the auction house manager. She was concerned that someone mightpete with her for the Woodham, a rare and valuable item of great significance.


    Soon after, the Orwall Queen¡¯s diamond tiara was brought to the stage. The auctioneer spoke with great reverence, detailing how the tiara was set with many diamonds and a wless ruby, each gem worth a small fortune. This magnificent tiara had been worn by the Queen on her fiftieth anniversary, making it not only a piece of jewelry but also a historical artifact.


    Though the auctioneer didn¡¯t exin how the tiara had found its way to the auction, he wove captivating stories about its history, heightening its allure and mystique.


    The bidding for the Orwall Queen¡¯s diamond tiara began at one hundred million, with each bid increasing by ten million.


    Brenna didn¡¯t rush to ce a bid. She watched as the price steadily climbed, reaching seven hundred million after the first round. Powerful buyers were clearly determined to get the tiara.


    Valeria Mendoza, strikingly beautiful, spoke in a sweet tone, ¡°Viper, you gave up on that bracelet earlier, but I must have that tiara for my birthday!¡±


    Despite her height, taller than most women, her beauty remained undeniable. She wore a strapless, short dress that barely reached her thighs.


    Viper presented himself as a polished man with sharp features, suggesting he was a wealthy young gentleman, far from the brutal underworld boss he actually was.


    His look was one of resolute determination. He was intent on securing the tiara not only for the woman beside him but also for his own pride. Three years ago, he had embarked on a critical mission to assassinate the Queen of Orwall. That mission had been thwarted by a remarkably skilled woman. It was one of the few missions he had personally undertaken and the only one he had failed¡ªa personal disgrace that still haunted him.


    He had recently learned that the Queen¡¯s diamond tiara was now avable on the ck market. His resolve was to im it as a trophy, a reminder to track down and kill that woman.


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    Adding to his frustration was that this woman had worn a mask during her encounter with the Queen, obscuring her identity. He had been forced to consult specialists to reconstruct her face based on masked images.


    Despite exhaustive global searches by his people over the past three years, he had been unable to find her.


    Viper¡¯s cold stare remained fixed on the diamond tiara as the price escted to eight hundred million, yet he refrained from bidding. The auction was now down to two bidders¡ªpeople from Room 9 and Room 13.


    Just then, Valeria tugged at Viper¡¯s arm. ¡°Viper, should I ce our bid?¡±


    Viper gave a nod.


    Valeria instantly offered nine hundred million.


    The other active bidders gave up.


    With no furtherpetition, Valeria¡¯s face lit up. She believed the diamond tiara was almost within her reach.


    ¡°Viper, we¡¯ve got it,¡± she said.


    ¡°Nine hundred and fifty million!¡± Brenna eximed, slightly shocked that another bidder was using the same strategy of holding back until the final moments.


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    Giselle¡¯s brow furrowed with concern that their billion-dor budget might fall short. ¡°I wasn¡¯t expecting such fiercepetition for this tiara. I¡¯ll arrange additional funds,¡± she said firmly. She was determined to win the tiara.


    Though Brenna also desired the tiara, she questioned whether spending a billion on an item she would rarely wear was worth it. ¡°Forget it, Mom; let¡¯s just see how this unfolds naturally,¡± Brenna said.


    Giselle replied firmly, ¡°Absolutely not. I want to give it to you as a birthday present. We can¡¯t just give up.¡±


    Giselle hurried off to arrange the extra funds.


    Brenna kept a close eye on the situation outside the room.


    A staggering bid of one billion came from Room 16.


    In Room 23, the faces of Valeria and Viper darkened. They had capped their funds at a billion and couldn¡¯t go any higher.


    Viper said, ¡°What¡¯s so special about this tiara that everyone¡¯s fighting for it? Find out who¡¯s in Room 16!¡±


    Valeria¡¯s expression turned serious as she replied, ¡°Understood.¡±


    Brenna was shocked by the sudden aggressive bid from the person in Room 16. They were also using the strategy of waiting patiently before striking decisively.


    She considered the situation with a thoughtful frown. Despite having met the Queen of Orwall, she questioned whether the tiara was truly worth a billion.


    After a moment of deliberation, she raised the bid by ten million to test if the person in Room 16 would keep up.


    ¡°One billion and twenty million!¡±


    Ethan noted that only the person in Room 7 remained in contention with him. They also seemed determined to win the tiara.


    Brenna raised the bid again. ¡°One billion and thirty million!¡±


    Ethan recognized the perseverance of the person in Room 7, who showed no signs of backing down, and responded with a direct bid of one billion three hundred million.


    Brenna chose not to continue bidding.


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    In the end, the Queen of Orwall¡¯s diamond tiara was sold for the staggering sum of one billion three hundred million.


    By the time Giselle returned, the auction for the tiara had already concluded.


    Giselle expressed her regret, saying, ¡°It¡¯s a pity. I just added an extra five hundred million; we could havepeted with them and won the tiara.¡±


    Brenna remained calm. ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡±


    She was more focused on the uing auction for the Woodham. To her surprise, there waspetition, but she secured it for seventy million.


    As they exited the auction house, Brenna noticed a familiar presence in the lobby. Ethan, dressed in a ck suit, moved toward the exit with aposed demeanor, not ncing sideways.


    Curious about his presence, Brenna wondered if he was after a specific item. Despite seeing him, she chose to ignore him, acting as if she hadn¡¯t noticed. She thought maybe he didn¡¯t want her to know what he was really interested in.


    Just then, Giselle called out, ¡°Ethan!¡±


    Ethan turned, and his stern expression softened when he saw Brenna and Giselle approaching with friendly smiles.


    ¡°Mrs. Harper, Brenna, what brings you here?¡±


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    Brenna lifted the bag she was carrying and said, ¡°We just attended the auction.¡±


    Giselle understood the unspoken rules of this ce. People who came here preferred discretion, so she simply asked about Vincent¡¯s health. ¡°How is your grandfather?¡±


    She had seen Vincent just days before, during his rehabilitation exercises.


    Ethan¡¯s eyes briefly flickered to the bags Brenna was carrying. He guessed the smaller bag on the left held something minor from the auction, possibly the emerald bracelet. Therger, sturdier bag on the right seemed to contain a nt¡ªlikely the Woodham¡ªwhich Brenna could use for her medicinal concoctions, given her expertise.


    After a quick nce at Brenna¡¯s bags, Ethan responded politely to Giselle, ¡°Thank you for asking, Mrs. Harper. My grandfather can now walk on his own, though he moves quite slowly.¡±


    His gaze shifted to Brenna, thinking the Harpers might not know about Brenna¡¯s role in Vincent¡¯s treatment. Brenna had been visiting Vincent for treatment on her own. If Giselle had known, she surely would have mentioned it.


    Giselle nodded toward the exit and suggested, ¡°Let¡¯s leave together.¡±


    Ethan, showing no urgency to leave, handed the bag he was holding to Brenna. ¡°This is for you.¡±


    Brenna gave her own bags to Giselle and took Ethan¡¯s. Ethan then took out a small box from the bag. The box was decorated in a style reminiscent of Orwallian artistry. Inside was a diamond tiara, sparkling brilliantly.


    Ethan said to Brenna, ¡°You¡¯ll look absolutely beautiful wearing this at our engagement party.¡±


    Brenna looked at the stunning tiara in surprise. She now realized Ethan had been the bidder in Room 16 who hadpeted with her for the tiara.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± she said with a warm smile.


    She paused, then added, ¡°I love it.¡±


    Ethan gently ced the tiara on Brenna¡¯s head, his eyes filled with deep affection. ¡°It looks perfect on you,¡± he said.


    Giselle watched them with a sense of contentment, convinced they were a perfect match. She looked at her daughter, believing Brenna to be the most beautiful woman in the world.


    g?ln¦Ò¦Í????s is where magic happens


    Just then, Viper arrived, apanied by Valeria Mendoza. They stopped in front of Brenna. Valeria¡¯s expression revealed her annoyance at not wearing the tiara herself.


    Both Brenna and Ethan turned their attention to Viper.


    Ethan, having had unpleasant encounters with Viper before, made no effort to hide his contempt. He said coldly, ¡°It¡¯s rare to see you take an interest in anything, Viper.¡±


    He then nced at Valeria, aware of rumors that Viper surrounded himself only with the most capable people. It was said that a woman with him was an expert in explosives who had assisted him in numerous operations. Ethan suspected Valeria was that woman.


    Ethan noticed Viper¡¯s bodyguard holding a wooden box but wasn¡¯t sure of its contents. With the day¡¯s multiple auction sessions, he hadn¡¯t kept track of all the items.


    Viper, showing equal disdain for Ethan, smirked disrespectfully at Brenna. ¡°Is she the woman you¡¯re interested in?¡± Ethan didn¡¯t reply, only gave a coldugh.


    Viper looked at Brenna and said, ¡°Not bad.¡±


    Ethan responded with a hint of sarcasm, ¡°Your woman isn¡¯t bad either.¡±


    Viper¡¯s gaze then fixed on the tiara atop Brenna¡¯s head. ¡°Typical of the world¡¯s richest man, spending 1.3 billion just to please a woman.¡± His expression was cold and challenging.


    Brenna disliked Viper deeply. She always believed he was dangerous. She recalled her fight with Jay and how she had turned him over to the police¡ªsomething Viper likely knew about. If he found out about her involvement, would he seek revenge?


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 Chapter 305

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    Though Viper appeared gentlemanly, Brenna was well aware of his ruthless nature from previous encounters.


    Viper looked at Brenna with disdain but was intrigued by her apparentck of fear. He let his gaze linger on her for a moment before walking away.


    As he entered his car, Viper instructed his bodyguard, ¡°Find out more about that woman.¡±


    The bodyguard nodded respectfully.


    Brenna carefully removed the tiara and ced it back in its box. ¡°Thank you,¡± she said to Ethan.


    Still, she couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that someone was watching her.


    Ethan led Brenna outside, engaging her in light conversation and offering warm smiles.


    Meanwhile, hidden in the shadows, Viper¡¯s bodyguard took multiple photographs of Brenna from various angles.


    Though Brenna was difficult to investigate, Giselle was not. Her details were quickly passed on to Viper.


    ¡°So, it¡¯s her.¡± Valeria nced over the documents on the table, her voice tinged with slight surprise and a trace of respect. ¡°Brenna was the one who dealt with Jay. I never imagined her to be so beautiful. Who would have thought? Not only stunning but also skilled in fighting.¡±


    Viper¡¯s expression remained unreadable. ¡°I have a feeling I¡¯ve seen her before,¡± he said.


    Valeria¡¯s face darkened instantly. ¡°You¡¯re not developing an interest in her, are you?¡±


    On Sunday, Brenna waited at the airport for Ellie¡¯s arrival.


    Her phone suddenly rang¡ªit was Ethan. His deep, soothing voice filled her ear. ¡°Are you free now? How about we grab lunch together? I can pick you up.¡±


    Brenna noticed several unread messages from Ethan, all asking if she was avable for lunch.


    Smiling, she replied, ¡°Sorry, I¡¯m busy this afternoon.¡±


    She chose not to exin further, remembering Ellie¡¯s warning¡ªshe couldn¡¯t let Ethan know Ellie wasing, as he might pass the information to Jayceon.


    More c0nt3nt at g??l??ovels.??o??


    At the top floor of the Mitchell Group building, Ethan stood by the floor-to-ceiling windows, phone in hand. Brenna¡¯s refusal surprised him. It was Sunday, and she was rarely at her studio on that day. He wondered what could be upying her.


    Respecting her privacy, he didn¡¯t press further but suggested, ¡°How about dinner instead?¡±


    Behind him, Neville quietly admired Brenna. To his knowledge, no one had ever refused Ethan before. He thought Brenna¡¯s boldness was remarkable, or maybe she simply didn¡¯t realize Ethan¡¯s stature in the global business world.


    Ethan was a titan of international business, renowned for his strategic skill in corporate management and investment. His business advice was highly sought after and could dramatically influence any person or enterprise.


    Many longed just for the chance to have dinner with Ethan, but he was notoriously selective and usually declined such invitations.


    Neville believed Ethan¡¯s time was precious and that Brenna should feel honored he wanted to spend time with her.


    Yet, Brenna had declined.


    Neville grew concerned¡ªshe was the first person to ever refuse Ethan. He wondered if Ethan would be upset.


    Neville watched Ethan¡¯s back, his hands clenching into fists, worried that if Brenna also declined dinner, Ethan might indeed be angry.


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 Chapter 306

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    Silently, he hoped Brenna would ept.


    A momentter, Ethan¡¯sposed voice broke the silence. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll pick you up tonight.¡±


    After ending the call, Ethan sat back down, his thoughts drifting to the news about a flight arriving from Norview at the international airport.


    ¡°Brenna must be picking someone up,¡± he murmured.


    He recalled that Jayceon had been in Norview for the past several weeks, still searching for Ellie. Though he sympathized with Jayceon, there was little he could do to help.


    Brenna was at the airport¡ªwas she there to pick up Ellie? Or someone else? Ethan wasn¡¯t sure.


    Neville noticed the serious expression on Ethan¡¯s face and guessed he was troubled by Brenna¡¯s refusal. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, is everything alright?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Yeah. Book a table for me at Sky Heaven for eight o¡¯clock tonight,¡± Ethan said calmly.


    Neville quickly left to make the reservation while Ethan hesitated, contemting whether to inform Jayceon about Brenna¡¯s actions.


    Then he remembered that he had already betrayed Brenna once. He couldn¡¯t bring himself to do it again. After all, a wife meant more to him than a friend.


    Jayceon was responsible for his own problems; it was his job to seek forgiveness from his wife.


    Thinking this, Ethan felt relieved. By remaining loyal to Brenna, he would avoid ending up estranged from the one he loved, like Jayceon.


    At the airport, Brenna¡¯s face lit up when she spotted a familiar figure¡ªa tall, beautiful woman maneuvering arge luggage cart, with a charming little boy perched on top, eagerly waving at her.


    ¡°Brenna!¡± Patrick Moore jumped off the luggage cart and ran toward her.


    It had been two years since Brennast saw her godson, and he had grown noticeably taller. She spread her arms wide and bent down to embrace him.


    Patrick showered her with kisses and gently held her face. ¡°I missed you so much! Did you get me a gift?¡±


    ?????????????? ????????????: g??????¦Í??????????????


    His gestures were overly dramatic, yet his words showed unexpected maturity.


    Wearing trendy sunsses and a sleek ck jacket, Patrick drew admiring nces with his stylish appearance.


    ¡°What a handsome young boy!¡± a young woman nearby said, clearly charmed.


    Ellie, following with the luggage cart, spoke firmly, ¡°Get down now. You¡¯re getting too old to cling to Brenna like that.¡±


    Patrick reluctantly let go of Brenna and pouted. She handed him a white box and yfully pinched his cheek. ¡°Here¡¯s thetest custom car model I designed. I need it for a lecture soon, but you can y with it until then.¡±


    Patrick¡¯s eyes sparkled with excitement. ¡°Brenna, is this one of those models you can build and take apart?¡±


    Brenna nodded, ¡°Yes, it¡¯s just the kind you like.¡±


    Upon opening the box and seeing the sleek blue car model inside, Patrick smiled happily. ¡°It seems you¡¯re even more skilled than before.¡±


    Brenna smiled gently. This child was wless in every way¡ªexcept for being a bit too clever. At just six years old, his thoughts were nearly as mature as an adult¡¯s, and the things he said never quite sounded like those of a child.


    Ellie softly ran her hand over her son¡¯s hair, her expression one of clear frustration. ¡°I¡¯m so envious. He is my son, but he¡¯s so attached to you. His interests mirror yours¡ªcars, mechanics, airnes, warships. He¡¯s even into coding, just like you. Sometimes I think he might actually be your child.¡±


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    Brenna smirked slightly. ¡°What can I say? We spent a lot of time together when he was little.¡±


    After a brief hug, Brenna handed Ellie some flowers. ¡°You look as stunning as always. Now I¡¯m the one who¡¯s envious.¡±


    Ellie, only a few years older than Brenna, possessed remarkable beauty and a figure that belied her status as a mother of a six-year-old. Her flowing hair and meticulous makeup only enhanced her allure.


    As Brenna and Ellie conversed, a young couple passed by, both wearing sunsses and baseball caps. The man kept his gaze fixed on Ellie, secretly taking pictures with his phone, and even whistled at her. The woman with him seemed irritated by that, tugging at his arm. ¡°Why are you staring at her? What¡¯s so special about her? She probably got stic surgery to look like that.¡±


    Brenna was prepared to ignore them, but then she recognized the pair¡ªit was Denis and Isabe!


    Isabe also noticed Brenna and let out a loud, disdainful snort, rolling her eyes. Brenna was puzzled by Isabe¡¯s behavior and looked at her with an icy gaze.


    Isabe walked over to Brenna with confidence. ¡°Don¡¯t be too smug! Soon, you will face bankruptcy.¡±


    Brenna responded, confused, ¡°Are you out of your mind? What nonsense are you talking about?¡±


    Isabe snorted once more but didn¡¯t say another word. She shot Brenna a re before walking away with Denis.


    As they left, Isabe kept looking back at Brenna and the little boy, overhearing him call Brenna ¡°Mommy Brenna,¡± which left her thoroughly baffled. She wondered when Brenna had had such a big child. Had she secretly had a baby while she was overseas?


    This revtion seemed like a big scandal. She couldn¡¯t resist a smug grin. Could the Harper family¡¯s darling daughter have an illegitimate child? And who could the child¡¯s father be?


    Contemting whether Ethan would stay with Brenna if he learned she had a child, Isabe hastily snapped several pictures of Brenna and the boy.


    After capturing the photos, she noticed Denis still admiring the beautiful woman beside Brenna. Annoyed, she grabbed his chin, forcing him to look at her, and pouted theatrically. ¡°Am I not prettier than her? She must have had stic surgery before. Her beauty is not real.¡±


    Your hub for updates: g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s?c?m


    Though Denis was clearly annoyed by Isabe, he kept his frustration to himself and simply followed her out of the airport.


    Inside the Wagner family¡¯s car, Isabe brought up the child who had been with Brenna earlier. ¡°Did you catch what that cool little boy called Brenna?¡± she asked Denis.


    Denis, not particrly interested in talking to Isabe, responded impatiently, ¡°No.¡±


    Isabe¡¯s annoyance grew, but she held back from snapping at Denis. She worried that upsetting him could jeopardize her family¡¯s rtionship with the Wagner family or, worse, that Denis might not want to marry her.


    She sneered, ¡°You were too busy staring at that woman beside Brenna! You missed it¡ªthe boy called Brenna ¡®Mommy.''¡±


    Denis had indeed been too distracted by Ellie to notice that earlier. Isabe, still irked but unable to snap at Denis, said, ¡°Did you notice how close that boy was to Brenna?¡±


    Denis¡¯s nk stare confirmed he hadn¡¯t.


    Frustrated, Isabe thrust her phone toward his face, showing a photo of the boy nting a kiss on Brenna¡¯s cheek.


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    Denis inspected the photo more carefully and was surprised. ¡°They really look like mother and son. When did Brenna have a kid? And with whom?¡± he said.


    He scrutinized the pictures, noting the boy¡¯s handsome features, which slightly resembled Brenna¡¯s. Puzzled, he added, ¡°This is big news. I wonder how Ethan will take it.¡±


    He sneered, ¡°The Mitchell family has a strong presence in politics and the military. It¡¯s unlikely Brenna could marry Ethan now.¡±


    He then looked at Isabe with a sense of satisfaction. ¡°Just as you wanted.¡±


    Isabe felt a surge of triumph. If the Harper family found out that Brenna had a child, how would they react? They might even disown her.


    Immediately, Isabe thought of Rosie and was eager to share the news with her.


    Denis watched her with a dismissive look, considering her foolish.


    He said, ¡°Rosie has already been kicked out of the Harper family. What¡¯s the point of telling her this? Even if she tells the family, would they believe her? You should tell Ernst instead!¡±


    Isabe snorted dismissively, confident in her n. ¡°You don¡¯t understand Rosie. Telling her is like broadcasting it to everyone. Just wait and see.¡±


    In Rosie¡¯s hospital room, a group of business professionals gathered around her bed¡ªthree men and two women¡ªas Rosie delegated tasks.


    Though she had been mainly stationed at a branch office for the past two years and was seldom at headquarters, Rosie maintained strong connections there, especially with senior staff. The group included five top executives from the Harper Group¡¯s headquarters.


    Among them was a man in his forties, the technical director responsible for automotive manufacturing. The two women, both around thirty, held significant positions¡ªone as head of thepany¡¯s secretariat and the other as the public rtions manager. The remaining two men managed different departments. Each was assigned responsibilities rted to Brenna¡¯s uing lecture at the Harper Group.


    These five had been promoted by Rosie through the board of directors, earning her their loyalty and prompt responsiveness.


    ¡°We understand,¡± they assured Rosie earnestly.


    Just as Rosie was about to dismiss them, her phone buzzed with a new message. She opened it casually, but then stared at it in disbelief, zooming in on each photo. A delighted grin spread across her face.


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    ¡°I can¡¯t believe Brenna has a child this age!¡± she eximed.


    The Harper Group executives leaned closer, curious to see the photos.


    ¡°Unbelievable!¡± the head of the secretariat eximed in shock. ¡°I thought she was inexperienced in love during her award eptance speech. Turns out that¡¯s not the case at all.¡±


    The other female executive was equally stunned. ¡°This is perfect! We can use this to our advantage. If this news breaks before her lecture tomorrow, will she be ousted?¡±


    Thrilled by the opportunity, Rosie quickly began crafting a more borate scheme. ¡°What an excellent turn of events! We need to adjust our strategy now. I doubt Brenna will bring her child to the lecture tomorrow. Listen carefully. We need to discreetly disy a photo of her and her child during the lecture so everyone can see the real her¡­¡±


    Meanwhile, Brenna, Ellie, and Patrick arrived at the spacious Bayview Apartments. Julia and two maids had already tidied the apartment and arranged some essentials.


    They waited downstairs to assist with the luggage.


    Brenna instructed Julia, ¡°Please make sure everything is ready and prepare a few dishes.¡±


    She knew that after a twenty-hour flight, Ellie was probably starving. On top of that, the food abroad was so different from what they had at home, and Ellie oftenined about it, always craving the familiar tastes of home.


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    As Brenna pondered what dishes to prepare, Ellie interjected, ¡°Just any home-cooked food will do. I¡¯m tired of foreign cuisine. I just want to eat something and sleep.¡±


    Patrick frowned. ¡°Mommy, but I want to go out and y!¡±


    Ellie gently tapped her son¡¯s cheek. ¡°Let Brenna take you out to y. I need to catch some sleep.¡±


    She then said to Brenna, ¡°Patrick was so bored on the ne he slept the entire way, but I was up working. I had a client pressing me, so I spent the flight working on a design draft. By the time wended, I sent it off to the studio to start on the samples. I¡¯m exhausted from that. You need to take care of Patrick for me now.¡±


    Brenna sympathized with Patrick, patting his head. ¡°Poor thing, you must have had a tough time living abroad with your mom. She doesn¡¯t know how to cook, so you probably ate a lot of fast food.¡±


    Patrick nodded earnestly. ¡°She really can¡¯t cook, but she did take me to nice restaurants when she had time. It¡¯s not so bad.¡±


    Brenna left instructions with Julia to ensure Ellie was well taken care of, then she and Patrick headed out. Shirie was home to many amusement parks for children, and she nned to take him to one.


    When Brenna returned that evening with Patrick, she found Julia and the others had already gone back to the Harper family home, and Ellie was sound asleep.


    She gave a helpless shrug and said to Patrick, ¡°Looks like you have to go home with me now. Don¡¯t worry. The chef at my ce makes fantastic food.¡±


    Just as they were about to leave, Brenna¡¯s phone rang¡ªit was Ethan calling.


    Brenna hadpletely forgotten their dinner ns.


    She decided to take Patrick with her to the restaurant. Ethan had been waiting for her at the entrance for over half an hour.


    ¡°Wow, Mommy, is that my dad? He looks so cool!¡± Patrick eximed as he spotted the tall, casually dressed Ethan, who looked effortlessly stylish¡ªexactly how Patrick had imagined his father. He added, ¡°Mommy, my dad is¡­¡±


    Patrick eximed, ¡°So handsome! Did you bring me here to see him?¡± He released Brenna¡¯s hand and ran over to Ethan.


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    ¡°You look so much like me. Are you my dad?¡± He hugged Ethan¡¯s leg tightly, looking up at his face. The more he looked, the more he saw the resemnce between Ethan and himself, convinced they looked almost identical.


    Brenna felt a bit resigned, finally understanding the depth of Ellie¡¯s frustrations with her son. Patrick often saw a handsome man and insisted they looked alike, wondering if the man could be his father.


    ¡°He¡¯s not your father,¡± Brenna said softly, gently patting Patrick¡¯s head and tousling his hair tofort him.


    The smile quickly faded from Patrick¡¯s face. He let go of Ethan¡¯s leg and stepped back beside Brenna, his expression filled with deep sadness. He looked up at Brenna, his eyes glossy with tears about to fall. His mother had promised that when they returned, he would meet his father.


    He had been back in the country for several hours but still hadn¡¯t met his father. ¡°Did Mommy lie to me? Do I really have a father?¡±


    Brennaforted him softly, ¡°Everyone has a mom and dad, and so do you. Once your mom gets enough rest, she¡¯ll surely take you to see your dad.¡±


    Patrick gave a reluctant nod, his lips pressed together in silence.


    Ethan watched the little boy with curiosity, wondering who the handsome child belonged to.


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    ¡°Whose child is this?¡± he asked casually.


    Brenna recalled Ellie¡¯s advice to withhold information from Ethan. She replied, ¡°He¡¯s a friend¡¯s child, recently returned from overseas.¡± Ethan didn¡¯t press further and simply nodded.


    Later that night, Brenna arrived home around ten o¡¯clock.


    Patrick jumped out of the car and, upon seeing therge, luxurious house, ran inside excitedly. ¡°Wow! Mommy Brenna, your house is so big and beautiful!¡± he eximed joyfully as he explored the first floor.


    His loud enthusiasm caught the attention of Shepard, Giselle, and Dalton, who were on the fourth floor and came down to see what was happening.


    Patrick, full of energy, saw Shepard and Giselle and ran up to them with a bright smile, cheerfully saying, ¡°Good evening!¡±


    Shepard was instantly charmed by the little boy, thinking how delightful it would be to have such a spirited and adorable grandson.


    ¡°What is your name, young man?¡± Shepard asked.


    ¡°My name is Patrick Moore,¡± Patrick replied.


    Shepard and Giselle shared a chuckle before turning to Brenna as she approached.


    Brenna exined, ¡°He¡¯s my best friend¡¯s son.¡±


    Dalton, who had plenty of free timetely, had just returned home as well.


    The moment he saw the little boy¡ªcharming and full of style¡ªhe felt an instant warmth toward him and instinctively reached out to gently pat his head.


    Patrick looked up at Dalton and greeted him cheerfully.


    Dalton said warmly, ¡°You¡¯re such a polite young man! How old are you?¡±


    Patrick replied brightly, ¡°I¡¯m six years old.¡±


    Brenna said, ¡°Dalton, could you let him sleep in your room tonight? And maybe help him with his bath?¡±


    Dalton readily agreed and led the boy upstairs to the fourth floor.


    Every story starts at g?ln¦Ò¦Í????s©q??§àm


    Giselle, having heard Patrick calling Brenna ¡°Mommy,¡± said, ¡°Why does the child call you Mommy? That seems inappropriate.¡±


    Brenna exined as they sat down, ¡°When I was living in Norview, I met his mother. She was pregnant and had severed ties with her family, managing everything by herself. I was also going through a tough time, so we ended up sharing an apartment. After Patrick was born, I became his godmother, and his mother went back to work. We took turns looking after him based on our schedules. It continued like that until I came back here. Initially, he called me ¡®godmother,¡¯ but eventually, he started calling me ¡®Mommy¡¯ because he felt ¡®godmother¡¯ wasn¡¯t intimate enough.¡±


    Giselle understood the situation but disapproved. ¡°You¡¯re not married, and having a child call you Mommy might lead people to think you have a child out of wedlock. It would be better if he didn¡¯t call you that.¡±


    Brenna disagreed. She believed her mother was overthinking the matter.


    Shepard said to Brenna, ¡°Your mother is right. His real mother might not appreciate him calling you Mommy. It¡¯s important to keep rtionships clear. He already has a mother; calling you Mommy is confusing. And what about his father? If you¡¯re his Mommy, what does that imply about your rtionship with his father?¡±


    Brenna responded, ¡°You¡¯re right, Dad. I¡¯ll talk to him about this tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Which family is he from?¡± Shepard asked.


    ¡°He belongs to the Russell family,¡± Brenna answered. ¡°Dad, please don¡¯t mention this to Mr. Russell. The Russell family is unaware of the child¡¯s existence. The boy takes his mother¡¯sst name.¡±


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    ?Chapter 311:


    Shepard snorted, his expression showing disapproval, though he was not surprised by the revtion. ¡°None of the Russell sons is easy to handle. Mrs. Russell is practically losing her mind dealing with them. Both of her sons inherited the family¡¯s good looks, but neither is willing to settle down and get married. If my sons ever acted like that, I¡¯d give them a good beating.¡±


    Giselle frowned and scolded her husband, ¡°Would you bring this up in front of Brenna?¡±


    She then turned to Brenna. ¡°You should get some rest. You have a lecture at headquarters tomorrow.¡±


    Brenna nodded and said, ¡°Don¡¯t tell the Russell family about the child.¡±


    Giselle assured her, ¡°I won¡¯t say a word, but I can¡¯t promise the same for your father. He¡¯s been close to Mr. Russell for many years.¡±


    Brenna looked at Shepard, hoping for reassurance. If they weren¡¯t her parents, she might have kept this from them.


    Shepard also reassured Brenna, saying, ¡°I won¡¯t say a thing. The Russell family¡¯s situation isplicated enough. If I tell them this, it¡¯ll only make things worse. They¡¯re already in enough chaos as it is.¡±


    On Monday morning, Brenna woke up early. She approached Dalton¡¯s door and knocked softly, thinking Patrick might still be sleeping. She needed Dalton to look after Patrick today because she had a lecture scheduled at the Harper Group headquarters and wouldn¡¯t be avable to care for him herself.


    Although she considered taking him back to Ellie, she knew Ellie well enough to guess she was likely still asleep, leaving her no choice but to rely on Dalton.


    But when the door opened, it wasn¡¯t Dalton who greeted her.


    Instead, Patrick stood there, already neatly dressed, with a stylish little backpack over his shoulder.


    Brenna expressed her surprise, saying, ¡°Why are you up so early?¡±


    Patrick responded, ¡°Mommy, I find it hard to sleep in new ces, and Dalton wouldn¡¯t let me cuddle with him¡­¡±


    Brennaughed gently and stroked his head. ¡°Let¡¯s stick to calling me Brenna. ¡®Mommy¡¯ might not sit well with your dad.¡±


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    ¡°Okay,¡± Patrick agreed, showing maturity beyond his years with a thoughtful nod.


    Brenna peeked inside and noticed Dalton was still fast asleep, unaware that Patrick was leaving.


    She then led Patrick downstairs.


    She said, ¡°Today¡¯s a busy day for me. Could you stay at home and spend time with Dalton?¡±


    Patrick¡¯s face fell slightly as he replied, ¡°I¡¯d rather stay with you.¡±


    Brenna was a bit puzzled. Could it be that Dalton had bullied Patrick? Maybe that was why Patrick didn¡¯t want to stay home with Dalton.


    ¡°All right, you cane with me,¡± Brenna said.


    After all, Patrick wasn¡¯t familiar with Dalton. The fact that he had obediently slept in the same room with Daltonst night was already quite considerate of him.


    ¡°Remember, while I¡¯m lecturing, you need to sit quietly in the audience. Don¡¯t wander off. If you get lost, I might not be able to find you,¡± Brenna said.


    ¡°Okay,¡± Patrick said, delighted, and they headed to the dining room to have breakfast together.


    By nine o¡¯clock, Brenna was driving to the Harper Group headquarters. She parked the car and retrieved arge box from the trunk. The box contained a car model she had designed for her lecture.


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    ?Chapter 312:


    With the backpack slung over her shoulder, one hand carrying the box and the other holding Patrick¡¯s, Brenna briskly entered the Harper Group building.


    The first floor was extravagantly decorated, with a distinct modern, technological feel.


    Behind a one-meter-high reception desk stood four young receptionists, two men and two women.


    ¡°Hello, wee!¡± said one of the female receptionists warmly.


    ¡°I¡¯m Brenna Harper, here to give a lecture today. You¡¯ve probably already been informed of this,¡± Brenna said.


    The receptionist nced at Patrick, who looked quite fashionable, dressed entirely in ck,plete with a backpack, sunsses, and neatly styled hair. He exuded a cool confidence.


    She smiled at him and said, ¡°Hello there. You¡¯re pretty handsome.¡±


    Patrick grinned and charmingly winked at the receptionist. ¡°Hello, Miss. You¡¯re so beautiful.¡±


    The receptionist replied, ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Brenna felt somewhat resigned, pondering where Patrick had picked up such behavior. It seemed that any time he encountered an attractive woman, he would eagerly introduce himself. Just yesterday, while they had been out, he had even added two young girls on WhatsApp.


    The receptionist said warmly, ¡°Miss Harper, the lecture is on the thirty-third floor. Is this your son? He¡¯s quite the charmer!¡±


    Before Brenna could correct her, a male receptionist interjected, ¡°What are you saying? Miss Harper is our chairman¡¯s daughter, and she¡¯s not married.¡±


    The female receptionist quickly responded, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Miss Harper. I was unaware of that.¡±


    Brenna just nodded, not particrly bothered by her earlier words.


    She then led Patrick towards the elevator.


    On the way, Patrick curiously asked Brenna, ¡°Mommy, does the Harper Group belong to your family?¡±


    Brenna nced around and noticed the receptionists staring oddly at them. She calmly said to Patrick, ¡°You need to call me Brenna when we are outside. You can only call me Mommy when we are alone.¡± She yfully tapped his nose. ¡°Got it?¡±


    The best stories are at g?ln¦Ò¦Í????s???????


    The female receptionist who had initially greeted Brenna captured this moment. She shared the photo with the Harper Group¡¯s PR manager and also posted it in thepany¡¯s internal group chat with the caption, ¡°A trendy, cool, and confident little boy.¡±


    The group chat, which included two thousand employees, was immediately filled with replies.


    Brenna had no idea this was happening. She took Patrick and rode the elevator with many people up to the thirty-third floor.


    Among the people were employees from the Harper Group, and a few quietly snapped photos of the two without them noticing. In thepany¡¯s group chat, someone stirred things up. ¡°Isn¡¯t that the chairman¡¯s daughter? She already has a child?¡±


    ¡°Did she have a kid at eighteen?¡±


    ¡°I heard that child call her ¡®Mommy.''¡±


    ¡°Wow, really?¡±


    ¡°And she¡¯s engaged to Mr. Mitchell, who doesn¡¯t even know about the child¡¯s existence.¡±


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    ?Chapter 313:


    This sensational news spread like wildfire across variouspany chats.


    In just a few minutes, everyone in the building was aware of the matter.


    Reaching the thirty-third floor, Brenna began setting up for her lecture when she noticed the audience¡¯s odd looks and whispering.


    A young woman in a crisp white outfit approached Brenna on the stage and showed her something on her phone. ¡°Miss Harper, there¡¯s a situation.¡±


    Brenna looked up to see a strikingly young and attractive woman, likely in her early twenties. She had chestnut-colored wavy hair and wore a professional yet friendly smile, clutching a phone.


    ¡°Who are you?¡± Brenna asked, sensing the woman was probably a secretary rather than an executive.


    Brenna was scheduled to give a lecture today, and the Harper Group was supposed to provide two assistants. Yet, as she nearedpletion of her setup, no one from the Harper Group hade to wee her. It seemed unusual for such arge corporation, especially since she was the chairman¡¯s daughter.


    Something felt off. Brenna¡¯s gaze hardened as she studied the woman, who showed no signs of nervousness or remorse. There was even a slight hint of gloating in her demeanor.


    ¡°I¡¯m the special assistant to Mr. Harper. My name is Sabine Gordon, and Mr. Harper sent me to help you,¡± Sabine introduced herself confidently, her eyes sharp, asionally flicking to Brenna¡¯sputer screen, evidently waiting for something specific to disy.


    ¡°You¡¯rete,¡± Brenna said inly, dismissing Sabine¡¯s earlier mention of an issue and highlighting her tardiness.


    She confronted Sabine directly, saying, ¡°You should have been here to greet me the moment I arrived at the Harper Group. Do you realize the inconvenience caused by your dy?¡±


    She then motioned towards herputer. ¡°The equipment wasn¡¯t even pre-tested. Is this what one should expect from Ernst¡¯s special assistant?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s voice was amplified through her microphone, making her words audible to everyone in the room. The hall buzzed with whispers, painting the Harper Group employees as unprofessional.


    Still, some people felt sympathy for Sabine, thinking Brenna was being overly harsh.


    ?????????¦Í??????.??????, ???????? ???????????????? ????


    Sabine, clearly upset, nced at her colleagues in the audience who appeared embarrassed for her.


    She hurriedly said to Brenna, ¡°Miss Harper, there was an unforeseen dy which caused myte arrival. I am addressing it urgently.¡±


    She handed her phone to ¡ª


    Brenna disyed several active chat groups within the Harper Group, buzzing with discussions about her son more than their work.


    A brief look of satisfaction shed across Sabine¡¯s face as she anticipated Brenna¡¯s reaction, eager to see how she would handle the revtions in front of the Harper Group¡¯s engineers and guests.


    Brenna grabbed Sabine¡¯s phone and quickly scrolled through the messages. She found countless insults using her of having a child out of wedlock, with some iming she had no right to give them a lecture. If her father weren¡¯t the chairman of the Harper Group, those people might have even gone as far as insulting her family.


    After scrolling through more messages, Brenna discovered photos of herself with Patrick.


    ¡°Patrick,e over here,¡± Brenna said to Patrick, who was engrossed in ying with his model.


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 Chapter 314

    ?Chapter 314:


    Patrick dashed over with enthusiasm. ¡°Brenna, what¡¯s up?¡±


    Despite his young age and focus on his toys, Patrick had overheard Sabine¡¯s conversation with Brenna.


    ¡°Look,¡± Brenna said, holding up the phone for Patrick to see. ¡°People are badmouthing us in the chat groups. Go deal with them for me.¡±


    Patrick¡¯s cheerful expression turned serious as he studied the screen. Even though he hadn¡¯t officially started school, he could read most of the words.


    These people were saying bad things about Brenna; they were being mean! Brenna was a good person. They shouldn¡¯t have said those things about her.


    Patrick nodded with determination and said, ¡°I¡¯ll take care of this!¡±


    Brenna ruffled Patrick¡¯s hair. ¡°I trust you! Solve this, and I¡¯ll make you something tastyter!¡±


    Patrick shook his head in excitement. ¡°I don¡¯t want something to eat; I want that model! It¡¯s the best one I¡¯ve evere across!¡± he said.


    Brenna looked at the car model on the table and gave a slight nod. ¡°It¡¯s yours, but you¡¯ll have to wait until after my lecture to get it,¡± she said.


    Patrick quickly agreed, checked Sabine¡¯s phone for other chat groups, noted the software name and group details, and then hurried to use Brenna¡¯sputer. His fingers danced across the keyboard, his face set in a serious and concentrated expression, showcasing a surprising level of proficiency and focus.


    Sabine was unaware of Patrick¡¯s capabilities. She couldn¡¯t understand why Brenna wasn¡¯t directly addressing the scandalous messages but was instead allowing a child to y with herputer.


    She asked disapprovingly, ¡°Miss Harper, shouldn¡¯t you be finding a way to deal with this situation?¡±


    Brenna responded coldly, ¡°These are the Harper Group¡¯s work group chats. You¡¯re a senior secretary here and supposed to coordinate my activities. Isn¡¯t it part of your job to resolve such issues?¡±


    Sabine felt uneasy for a moment but quickly came up with a n. She said, ¡°I¡¯ve already sent people to address it. I was just wondering if you might want to exin. After all, the child does look like you. Maybe you could just acknowledge publicly that he¡¯s your son. You are the chairman¡¯s daughter; even if you have an illegitimate child, people won¡¯t criticize you too harshly.¡±


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    ¡°You handle this situation. If it isn¡¯t resolved within ten minutes, don¡¯t bother showing up to work at the Harper Group tomorrow,¡± Brenna said firmly, leaving no room for discussion.


    Her assertive tone caused a stir among the onlookers, particrly those who had been spreading the rumors. They felt as though Brenna had caught them in the act, and their jobs were suddenly in jeopardy. There was a moment of hesitation in the room, followed by disapproving nces aimed at Brenna.


    Sabine, caught off guard, responded with defiance, ¡°Miss Harper, even if you are the chairman¡¯s daughter, you aren¡¯t in charge of day-to-day operations here. Isn¡¯t it overstepping for you to do that? If you really had the power to fire me, then anyone here could be next. Where do you get such authority?¡±


    Her tone grew almost confrontational by the end.


    Brenna realized that Sabine was not here to assist her but to provoke and undermine her.


    She retorted sharply, ¡°Does addressing ipetence require special authority? The way you conduct yourself, one would think you were the CEO of Harper Group, not an assistant.¡±


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    ?Chapter 315:


    Sabine was left momentarily speechless, unable to formte a counter. Brenna¡¯s sharp wit was clear to everyone; it was no wonder even Ernst had been pushed out of thepany because of her.


    Brenna continued, ¡°Leave. I don¡¯t need your help. An assistant with such arrogance is not someone I want near me.¡±


    With that, she turned away, her expression cold, and walked over to see how Patrick was doing.


    At the Mitchell Group:


    Neville rushed into Ethan¡¯s office, a serious look on his face, holding up his phone for Ethan to see. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, take a look at this!¡± he said.


    Ethan paused his review of a document and nced at the screen Neville was holding, which showed a chat history between Neville and his friend.


    This friend, Gerry Harrison, was a mid-level project manager at the Harper Group.


    Neville exined, ¡°A friend of mine told me that several Harper Group employees are spreading these rumors like crazy in their group chats. Someone¡¯s clearly pushing the story, boldly insisting the child is Miss Harper¡¯s illegitimate son. Now¡ª¡±


    Everyone¡¯s caught up in guessing who the father might be, and it¡¯s doing real harm to Miss Harper¡¯s reputation.


    Ethan¡¯s face hardened as he quickly thought of a n. ¡°Get our PR team to hack into their system, disrupt these messages, and shut down their chat software to stop any further discussion on this matter. Delete all the leaked photos and find out who¡¯s responsible for this situation.¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡± Neville exited the room with purposeful strides to carry out the tasks.


    Ethan¡¯s expression hardened as he rapidly typed on his keyboard, swiftly gaining ess to a Harper Group chat.


    As he read through the messages, he saw that most of the employees weren¡¯t criticizing Brenna; they were just sitting back and watching the drama y out.


    Only a few were vocal in their criticism, using Brenna of abusing her status as the chairman¡¯s daughter and criticizing her for allegedly bringing an illegitimate child to a significantpany event, thus damaging the reputation of the Harper Group.


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    Ethan sifted through all the chat groups to pinpoint the individuals instigating the rumors.


    Convinced that there was a deliberate attempt to tarnish Brenna¡¯s image, he took note of the IDs of the key agitators and sent them to Neville for further investigation.


    Who was behind the attempt to destroy Brenna¡¯s reputation?


    Confirming whether Brenna had a child would have been simple, yet the one stirring things up didn¡¯t bother to find out the truth. Instead, they boldly imed in the group chats that the boy was Brenna¡¯s son.


    After a second review of the messages, Ethan called Neville, instructing him to monitor these troublemakers closely.


    After the call with Neville, Ethan then dialed a number decisively. ¡°You have a son, and now he¡¯s being targeted. Are you going to do something about it?¡±


    Jayceon, who had returned from Norview only the day before, had been grappling with his failures. He had spent thest few weeks fruitlessly trying to track down Ellie abroad, only to find she had returned to the country ahead of him.


    He sat there feeling defeated, having gone over his failures more times than he could count.


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 Chapter 316

    ?Chapter 316:


    ¡°What did you just say?¡± Jayceon sprang up from his chair, alert and focused on Ethan¡¯s words. ¡°Tell me where Ellie and my son are.¡±


    Ethan sent him the photos of Brenna and Patrick.


    Immediately angered, Jayceon blurted out, ¡°Aren¡¯t these your fianc¨¦e¡¯s photos? Are you messing with me?¡±


    ¡°The child is yours,¡± Ethan said calmly. ¡°Brenna has been caring for your son.¡±


    He had suspected the previous day that the young boy Brenna had brought along was Jayceon¡¯s son. Patrick bore a striking resemnce to Jayceon¡¯s childhood photos.


    Ethan and Jayceon had been close friends since childhood, and Ethan still had photos of them together from their younger days.


    ¡°Head to the Harper Group building now.¡± After saying that to Jayceon, Ethan also prepared to leave.


    In the hospital.


    Rosie was busy with her phone, reading through the Harper Group¡¯spany chats. Managers were actively fueling discussions, and now, everyone at the Harper Group was aware that Brenna allegedly had a child out of wedlock and had boldly brought the child into thepany as though she wanted the whole world to see.


    Rosie felt quite pleased with how the executives had managed the situation. They had delegated the tasks to their trusted subordinates, considering that stirring controversy and tarnishing someone¡¯s reputation were beneath them. It was enough to let the lower ranks handle it.


    She could hardly conceal her glee as she watched the drama unfold. Sylvie and Vivian, sitting beside her, shared in the amusement, pleased with the chaos they had created.


    Suddenly, a video call interrupted Rosie¡¯s scrolling. She quickly answered the call, and the view from the thirty-third-floor auditorium at the Harper Group filled her screen.


    The caller was Kennedi Myers, a mid-level manager in the Harper Group¡¯s automotive design department. She was talented in design and had risen through the ranks partly due to Rosie¡¯s backing.


    ¡°Miss Harper, have you seen the messages in the group chats?¡± Kennedi¡¯s voice was filled with anticipation. She didn¡¯t show her face in the video call. ¡°This could be our chance to sabotage Brenna. If we can confirm she had a child out of wedlock, you could make youreback to the Harper Group, and Mr. Harper might not need to leave thepany.¡±


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    Rosie nodded in agreement. Ernst had had no choice but to step down from the Harper Group. Due to thepany¡¯srge scale and the demands of his role, he was still waiting for a new president to take over.


    ¡°Absolutely, this is our opportunity.¡± Rosie observed the live feed from the auditorium and noticed Brenna adjusting the equipment by herself. Normally, this would be handled by staff members of thepany, but no one had stepped forward to assist Brenna.


    That meant there were quite a few people who were dissatisfied with Brenna. Rosie, quietly pleased, still wasn¡¯t satisfied. She wanted to make things more difficult for Brenna.


    She said, ¡°Once Brenna begins her lecture, start asking tough questions. And don¡¯t end the call; I want to see everything.¡±


    Rosie was confident that she would humiliate Brenna this time. Sylvie, who was nearby, gave a sly smirk. ¡°Rosie, has Mr. Mitchell found out about this yet?¡± she asked.


    Rosie paused to think for a moment. ¡°Probably not.¡±


    She then shed a cunning smile. ¡°What do you think Ethan would do if he finds out about this? Would he end things with Brenna immediately?¡±


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    Vivianughed softly. ¡°End things? After all Brenna¡¯s efforts to make Ethan fall for her, she won¡¯t let him go easily.¡±


    Resting her chin in her hand, she sarcastically said, ¡°Do you think Brenna would give up her own son to get Ethan back?¡±


    Sylvie quickly agreed and said, ¡°Absolutely. For her, a child might be a small sacrifice for the chance to be with Ethan.¡±


    Their attention then shifted back to the screen, where the little boy was busily typing away at theputer. Vivian expressed her confusion, saying, ¡°Brenna was the star of Harper Group¡¯s automotive designpetition. Clearly, she¡¯s smart. So why is she letting a child use herputer? Doesn¡¯t she worry he might identally reveal something she doesn¡¯t want to reveal?¡±


    Sylvie nodded, a thought suddenlying to mind. ¡°Rosie, did you send them that photo I edited?¡±


    Rosie watched the little boy, noting his serious demeanor; he didn¡¯t appear to be simply ying. Something seemed off, but she remained silent. After all, what significant harm could a young child cause?


    Was he ying games on theputer? That had to be what he was doing.


    Rosie replied, ¡°Yes, I sent it. It will appear on the first slide of Brenna¡¯s PPT.¡±


    Meanwhile, at the Harper Group auditorium, Kennedi was monitoring the employee chat groups when she suddenly found she could no longer send messages. All prior chat history had disappeared, leaving behind only a gray screen. When she scrolled up, everything from the day¡ªincluding messages, photos, and files¡ªwas gone.


    She quickly said to Rosie, ¡°Miss Harper, something¡¯s wrong. It looks like the chat groups have been hacked.¡±


    Rosie was also in one of the Harper Group¡¯s executive chat groups, where the management team was intensely debating the matter about Brenna and the boy. This smaller executive group consisted of about four hundred people.


    She tried to view earlier messages in the executive chat only to find they had also disappeared.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on? Is someone secretly helping Brenna?¡± Rosie was in disbelief, staring at the nk messages, unable to send new ones.


    Vivian remained unfazed. ¡°It¡¯s fine. Just upload the matter to some external sites.¡±


    Sylvie backed the suggestion enthusiastically, saying, ¡°Yes, and make sure to pay for top cement on the trending lists!¡±


    Rosie¡¯s expression darkened. She couldn¡¯t determine who might be assisting Brenna, but she was sure it couldn¡¯t be Ethan.


    After all, Ethan was arguably the most embarrassed by the matter and should be the most upset.


    Rosie sent the manipted photo to Sylvie and Vivian, instructing them to promote it widely. She then dialed Ethan¡¯s number.


    ¡°Ethan! Something major just happened. Brenna has been lying to you!¡± The moment the call went through, Rosie rushed to report the news to Ethan.


    Ethan heard Rosie¡¯s voice and instantly remembered how she had persistently targeted Brenna since her return to the Harper family, even going as far as hiring thugs to harm her.


    Could Rosie be the one orchestrating the current situation? This seemed highly likely.


    Ethan treaded carefully, his voice far gentler than it usually was with Rosie as he asked, ¡°What exactly happened? No rush. Just tell me how Brenna deceived me.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s face lit up with a triumphant grin, sensing Ethan was unaware of the news. She saw an opportunity to drive a wedge between Ethan and Brenna and probably make them break up.


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    She quickly said, ¡°Ethan, you need to hear this. Brenna has a son about six years old. She brought him to her lecture at the Harper Group today. Everyone saw him call her ¡®Mommy,¡¯ and they acted very close. Ethan, Brenna has been deceiving you all this time. You can¡¯t trust her.¡±


    Ethan stayed calm and steady behind the wheel as he spoke to Rosie. ¡°That¡¯s not possible. Brenna wouldn¡¯t do something like that. Do you have any real evidence?¡±


    Rosie sensed Ethan¡¯s skepticism and continued, ¡°I¡¯m no longer at the Harper Group, but I still have contacts there. They saw Brenna with the boy in the lobby, and he called her ¡®Mommy.¡¯ That¡¯s proof enough.¡±


    Even with the so-called evidence Rosie provided, Ethan still couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that she might be the one pulling the strings behind the matter.


    He responded coldly, ¡°I should ask Brenna about this directly. This isn¡¯t something to take lightly.¡±


    Rosie, buoyed by what she interpreted as a shift in Ethan¡¯s stance, said, ¡°Think about it, Ethan. If that boy isn¡¯t her son, why would he publicly call her ¡®Mommy¡¯? If she wasn¡¯t his mother, why would she allow him to call her that? It¡¯s clear¡ªthat boy is her son. He looks about six, which means she had him before she was eighteen. She doesn¡¯t deserve to be in the Harper family. I¡¯ll speak to my grandfather about having her kicked out of the family.¡±


    Just then, another thought crossed her mind. She added, ¡°Ethan, it¡¯s honestly terrifying. Brenna¡¯s incredibly sly. She has probably been scheming her way into the Harper family for years. And now that she has epted your proposal, who¡ª¡±


    ¡­knows what else she¡¯s after? Maybe the Harper family isn¡¯t enough for her¡ªshe could be setting her sights on the Mitchell family next. Ethan, you can¡¯t let yourself be fooled by her.¡±


    Ethan couldn¡¯t help but chuckle lightly. ¡°Rosie, you¡¯ve spun quite a story from just a little boy¡¯s presence. You really do know how to let your imagination run wild.¡±


    Rosie was caught off guard by Ethan¡¯s response. ¡°You still don¡¯t believe me? I¡¯m telling the truth. Brenna has a son. I¡¯m not using her without proof! My parents will be furious when they find out about this. Now I see why she tricked me into that bet with my brother. She¡¯s after the Harper family¡¯s fortune. She¡¯s so maniptive! I am no match for her.¡±


    ¡°Enough. That boy is not her son,¡± Ethan said firmly, ending the call. He was now convinced that Rosie was the one orchestrating this drama. His face hardened, a wave of disappointment settling in his eyes. Rosie, though a Harper herself, wasn¡¯t hoping for understanding or truth; she was waiting for Brenna to fall, eager to watch her be torn down.


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    Rosie quickly called Ethan back.


    Curious about what she wanted to say, Ethan answered the phone.


    Over the call, Rosie said, ¡°I¡¯m going to inform my parents and brothers of this to prevent Brenna from giving her lecture and tarnishing the Harper family¡¯s name. Ethan, you should rethink your engagement to Brenna; perhaps find someone else to fulfill the marriage agreement between our families. I¡¯m sorry for this mess. I apologize to you on behalf of the Harper family.¡±


    Though she apologized, her expression was twisted with a grin.


    Ethan responded with skepticism, ¡°Have you really looked into this? Why are you rushing to conclusions?¡±


    Rosie raised her voice as she said, ¡°I know you are smitten with Brenna and want to believe her, but she has really crossed the line this time. It¡¯s inexcusable. I¡¯ll suggest that my parents issue a public apology¡ªto the public and to you.¡±


    Ethan ended the call with finality, tired of Rosie¡¯s baseless usations of Brenna.


    In the auditorium:


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    Ernst ended his conversation with Rosie and walked onto the stage, his gaze cold as he looked at Brenna and Patrick.


    Patrick, his delicate features lit up with a bright smile, finished what he was doing and called out, ¡°Brenna, it¡¯s done!¡±


    Ernst, visibly upset, said, ¡°Brenna, using a young child in your schemes¡ªhow disgraceful!¡±


    Brenna had just finished fixing the equipment after spotting signs of tampering¡ªsomeone had added things that clearly didn¡¯t belong. Luckily, she had noticed it before it could cause confusion or lead to any trouble.


    She fixed Ernst with a cold stare. ¡°What exactly are you saying?¡± she asked.


    Brenna frowned, clearly annoyed by Ernst¡¯s careless actions as he scolded her without grasping the full situation.


    Ernst had once led the Harper Group as its CEO. How could he act so impulsively like this?


    As Brenna maintained herposure, Ernst¡¯s frustration intensified. He scrutinized the young boy beside her, noting a resemnce to his friend Jayceon during his youth. The boy¡¯s features looked a lot like Jayceon.


    Could it be possible that Brenna and Jayceon had crossed paths years ago, resulting in this child?


    But reconsidering the scenario, he dismissed the idea. Jayceon wasn¡¯t the type to be involved with someone like Brenna, who had been merely a pawn in the Barrett family¡¯s games before. Besides, Jayceon wouldn¡¯t have allowed Brenna to endure such hardships within the Barrett family if he had been together with her.


    After mulling it over, Ernst decided it was unlikely the child was Jayceon¡¯s. The resemnce must be coincidental.


    What truly disappointed him was his belief that Brenna had secretly had a child and kept this hidden from the Harper family, only revealing the child¡¯s existence after cementing her status in the family and securing shares.


    He saw her actions as maniptive, using the Harper family for her own gain.


    The more Ernst pondered, the angrier he got. He confronted Brenna before the assembled crowd, yelling, ¡°Are you still pretending you don¡¯t understand what¡¯s going on?¡±


    Despite her irritation, Brenna knew she had to remainposed due to the public setting. She responded to Ernst with a cold and dismissive tone, ¡°Pretending? What exactly are you talking about?¡±


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    Ernst¡¯s gaze shifted to the boy with a mix of repulsion. It wasn¡¯t the child he disliked but rather the fact that the child was born out of wedlock with an unknown background. Regardless of the child¡¯s appearance or intelligence, Ernst found it difficult to feel any warmth toward him.


    He said sharply, ¡°Who did you have this child with? Your actions are disgraceful. Not only having a child out of wedlock but also unting him publicly? You¡¯ve tarnished our family¡¯s reputation. Do you think just because our parents and grandparents support you, you can do whatever you like?¡±


    Brenna chuckled lightly, reassuringly patting Patrick on the head. ¡°Who told you he¡¯s my child?¡± she said.


    Patrick moved protectively in front of Brenna. Although small, his demeanor was resolute. He had long sensed Ernst¡¯s hostility toward Brenna and didn¡¯t see him as a good person.


    With a puzzled frown, Patrick asked, ¡°Godmother, who is this man? And what does any of this have to do with him?¡±


    A wave of warmth rose in Brenna¡¯s chest because of Patrick, though it stung that Ernst, her own brother, refused to trust her.


    Brenna replied, ¡°This is my older brother. He is part of the Harper Group¡¯s management team and currently holds the position of CEO.¡±


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    Ernst was stunned. ¡°Godmother?¡±


    Suddenly, he thought of something, and his frustration intensified. ¡°Brenna, this is disgraceful! You use a child in your act. You have the audacity to have a child, yet you won¡¯t even let him call you Mom in public? Do you think you can deceive me with this act?¡±


    At that moment, a woman in a beige suit approached confidently, microphone in hand. Her wavy hair and makeup were perfect. She was Kennedi, looking every bit the part of an elegant and precise woman in her thirties, still on a video call with Rosie.


    Without hesitation, Kennedi confronted Brenna, saying, ¡°Ms. Harper, a question for you. You had a child out of wedlock, correct? Given his age, you must have been under eighteen when you had him. With that level of shamelessness andck of integrity, what gives you the right to lecture truly gifted individuals here? Do you honestly believe you¡¯re worthy of doing something like this?¡±


    Her usation reflected the sentiment of many in the audience. After finishing her words, she lifted her chin with confidence, standing upright as if she were the very symbol of justice.


    By this time, the auditorium was filled with people, and a hush fell over the crowd as they awaited Brenna¡¯s response.


    Ernst found Kennedi¡¯s words echoing his own thoughts. He moved toward the microphone and addressed the audience.


    ¡°Hello, everyone. Brenna is my sister, and she has made a mistake. I want to apologize to you all on her behalf. Today¡¯s lecture has been canceled. I¡¯m truly sorry!¡±


    Brenna was furious. She faced Ernst and said, ¡°You haven¡¯t even heard my side of the story. Why are you so quick to judge? What proof do you have that this child is mine?¡±


    Ernst was fuming,pletely overtaken by his anger. He snapped at Brenna, no longer able to hold back, ¡°The child is standing right here. Back in the lobby, he called you Mommy in front of a crowd. Isn¡¯t that all the proof anyone needs? Honestly, I¡¯m ashamed on your behalf!¡±


    Patrick finally grasped the situation. Stepping forward, he gestured toward the microphone. ¡°Hand it over. I need to speak,¡± he said.


    Ernst, visibly annoyed but trying to maintain control of his anger, replied, ¡°Boy, this isn¡¯t your fault. You¡¯re innocent. It¡¯s your mother¡¯s mistake.¡±


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    Patrick, too short to reach the microphone, grew anxious as his small voice was unable to reach everyone in the auditorium.


    Brenna intervened, leading Patrick slightly away. She said, ¡°Mr. Harper, one should be careful with their words. Let me rify: this child is the son of a friend. I¡¯ve been closely involved in his life when he was little, so he sometimes calls me Mommy. Please don¡¯t jump to conclusions.¡±


    Ernst said sarcastically, ¡°Oh really? Then why did he call you ¡®Mommy¡¯? Do you think we¡¯re all fools here? Who would let their child call someone else ¡®Mommy¡¯? You must be the child¡¯s mother; don¡¯t pretend you are not!¡±


    Shepard, having been informed by the secretary that Ernst was causing a scene and making things difficult for Brenna, hurried to the auditorium.


    ¡°You fool! How can you distrust your own sister like this?¡± Shepard scolded Ernst sharply, his disappointment evident. If not for Ernst¡¯s future role as leader of the Harper Group, Shepard might have been even harsher with him.


    Ernst turned to look at him, surprised. ¡°Dad, why are you here? I¡¯ve got this under control. You don¡¯t have to do anything.¡±


    Shepard was seething with anger as he red at his son. ¡°Under control? By shaming your sister in front of everyone and causing her public embarrassment? Is that how you handle things? You don¡¯t believe a word she said. Enough of this!¡±


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    Patrick, seeing the trouble he had inadvertently caused, felt guilty. He pulled on Brenna¡¯s sleeve and whispered, ¡°Brenna, I¡¯m sorry if I¡¯ve made things difficult for you.¡±


    Brenna reassured him with a gentle pat on his head. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Patrick. I can handle this,¡± she said.


    Kennedi, who had questioned Brenna earlier, now fell silent, worried about being fired with the chairman in the auditorium.


    On the video call, Rosie was still pushing her agenda. ¡°Keep pressing Brenna. She hasn¡¯t really answered your question. Don¡¯t back down. I¡¯ll help you if anything bad happens.¡±


    Kennedi hesitated. Seeing Shepard¡¯s undeniable support for Brenna, she decided not to escte things further.


    She said to Rosie, ¡°Miss Harper, let¡¯s not pursue this further. Brenna has already stated that the child is her friend¡¯s son.¡±


    Rosie urged her, saying, ¡°It¡¯s okay; just keep asking her about the matter. Ask her if she made Ernst and me sign a betting agreement to guarantee this child inherits the Harper family¡¯s assets. And ask her who the father of the child is.¡±


    Kennedi reluctantly followed Rosie¡¯s directive.


    The room fell into stunned silence as everyone turned their attention to Kennedi¡¯s continued questioning.


    Ernst¡¯s expression grew colder as he listened, and he turned to Shepard, speaking seriously. ¡°Dad, don¡¯t let Brenna fool you. She intentionally brought this child here today. It seems like a calcted move. Perhaps my forced resignation from the Harper Group was orchestrated by her and the child¡¯s father. We need to stay vignt and not fall for her tricks. She already owns four percent of the Harper Group¡¯s shares and has a say on the board. We must be careful about this.¡±


    Shepard recognized that having so many people target Brenna today was clearly nned, and he knew he couldn¡¯t be fooled by it.


    He suspected that Ernst might be orchestrating this to reim the CEO position. This filled him with deep disappointment.


    ¡°Brenna already told you the boy is her friend¡¯s son. Were you not listening?¡± Shepard said sharply.


    Ernst responded, ¡°You believe her lie?¡±


    Remainingposed, Shepard retorted, ¡°You say that is a lie. Do you have any proof?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not a lie!¡±


    Just then, a voice echoed from the hall¡¯s entrance. Everyone turned to see Jayceon, dressed in a champagne-colored suit, entering with Ethan right behind him.


    These two were well-known figures, often featured on the covers of financial and fashion magazines. Everyone in the room recognized them.


    Their arrival stirred excitement among the audience.


    Jayceon quickly approached the stage and knelt before the boy, his smile widening. ¡°You¡¯re my son! I¡¯ve finally found you. Where¡¯s your mom?¡± he said.


    Patrick stared at the man before him, momentarily stunned. Jayceon was strikingly handsome, exuding charm and nobility. His pleasant voice and kind nature created an undeniable pull in Patrick, making him want to be near him.


    ¡°Are you my dad?¡± Patrick asked.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Jayceon responded, lifting Patrick into his arms and moving toward Ernst. ¡°Ernst, please don¡¯t misunderstand your sister. This boy is the child I had with another woman. Brenna is merely a good friend of his mother.¡±


    He chose not to disclose more without the child¡¯s mother¡¯s permission.


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    Ernst¡¯s frown deepened, clearly irritated by his friend¡¯s unexpected interference. Jayceon had openly contradicted him in front of everyone, leaving him humiliated.


    Turning to Brenna with a stern look, he asked, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you rify this earlier? Why let everyone here misunderstand?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s expression grew even colder as she said, ¡°I told you from the start that this child isn¡¯t mine; he belongs to a friend of mine. Did you believe me?¡±


    Everyone in the room heard their conversation and believed Jayceon.


    However, Kennedi, not satisfied with letting Brenna off the hook so easily, seized the microphone and spoke again. ¡°Miss Brenna Harper, there¡¯s talk that you crafted a betting agreement with Mr. Ernst Harper and Miss Rosie Harper to secure control over the Harper Group¡¯s shares. Now that Mr. Ernst Harper has stepped down from the Harper Group, are you nning to take over thepany as CEO? Do you really think you have the capability to take on such a significant role at your age?¡±


    Kennedi was growing anxious. Rosie had repeatedly assured her that Brenna¡¯s presentation would include a scandalous photo, yet the first slide disyed an elegant car design.


    The photo Rosie had spoken of was nowhere to be found.


    Through the video call, Rosie also noticed what was happening on the screen. She quickly grabbed another phone and made a call, demanding answers.


    The technician on the other end was just as flustered, confused as to why the photo wasn¡¯t showing up even after being properly uploaded. ¡°It seems our system has been hacked,¡± the technician said, working urgently to resolve the issue. But the hacker¡¯s skills were far too good, leaving him unable to take back control.


    Rosie, frustrated, ended the call with a curse.


    On the stage, Shepard took the microphone, his demeanor grave as he addressed the crowd, saying, ¡°Regarding the agreement, I need to rify a few things. The Harper Group isn¡¯t just my family¡¯s legacy; it¡¯s built on the hard work of tens of thousands of our employees. It¡¯s through their shared efforts that thepany has reached its current sess. That¡¯s a fact no one can deny, which is why, as the chairman, I believe it¡¯s important to address the recent shift in leadership.¡±


    After a pause, he continued, ¡°Even though this situation involves my own family, it has a direct impact on the Harper Group as well. Two months ago, my daughter Brenna was finally found after being missing for years. She returned to the family. Many of you may have heard various rumors about her. Some im that my daughter didn¡¯t even finish elementary school and is unqualified to work in car design. Let me set the record straight today.¡±


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    His voice turned serious. ¡°Brenna graduated at eighteen from a renowned university in Norview with dual master¡¯s degrees in finance and mechanical design. She is an internationally recognized award-winning designer, which refutes the ims about her educational background. Still, there are those who refuse to believe it, iming her credentials are fabricated and even casting doubt on whether her awards are real.¡±


    After a pause, he added, ¡°That¡¯s why her siblings agreed to a wager. If Brenna secured first ce in the Harper Group¡¯s automotive designpetition, Ernst would willingly step down from the management team and hand over his shares to her. My niece, Rosie, is also bound by this agreement. Both my father and older brother were present as witnesses, and their signatures gave the agreement full legal weight. Brenna didn¡¯t rely on any tricks or maniption. It was a¡ª


    ¡­straightforward wager between her and her siblings, and now, they¡¯re obligated to respect the result.¡±


    Shepard then gave Ernst a sharp look.


    Ernst, feeling resentful and embarrassed, looked at Brenna and then at Jayceon with anger. Knowing Jayceon well, he understood that Jayceon would not just acknowledge a child as his own without proof.


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    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± Ernst said to Brenna before he turned and left the stage, not once ncing back.


    Kennedi found herself at a loss, realizing that the situation had reached a conclusive end. With the chairman¡¯s clear statements, she had no basis to continue questioning Brenna.


    She quietly took her seat, handed the microphone back to the staff, and sank into her chair, feeling utterly embarrassed.


    On the video call, Rosie was still urging Kennedi, ¡°Why are you hesitating? Ask if Brenna had a rtionship with Jayceon, and if he used the Russell family¡¯s power to hide the truth about her illegitimate child! Ask if Brenna is the woman who had the child with Jayceon.¡±


    At that moment, Kennedi felt like Rosie¡¯s voice was sting through the speakers for everyone to hear.


    Once she caught on to what was happening, she looked up and saw her phone screen projected across therge disy, Rosie¡¯s private words echoing for everyone in the room to hear.


    The big screen showed Rosie¡¯s contorted face and her jealous demeanor.


    Kennedi was shocked. She frantically tried to end the call but found that she could no longer control her phone.


    ¡°Stop talking!¡± Kennedi said in a shaky voice, trying to alert Rosie to the disaster unfolding, but Rosie was oblivious to the situation.


    Rosie said, ¡°Why should I stop? Brenna took my shares and left me with nothing. Why shouldn¡¯t I retaliate? She deserves this! I want her reputation ruined¡­¡±


    Kennedi, her hands trembling, turned her phone¡¯s camera toward therge screen, showing Rosie the live feed of her rant.


    Back in her hospital room, Rosie kept criticizing Brenna until she suddenly saw herself on the big screen. ¡°What¡¯s happening? Why am I on the screen? Kennedi, what have you done¡­¡±


    Only then did Rosie grasp the gravity of her situation. She nervously tapped on her phone but was unable to end the video call.


    Brenna, observing this from the stage, remainedposed. With the unfolding events, there was no need for her to exin anything.


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    Everyone now understood the situation clearly. ¡°Rosie, apologize!¡±


    Sylvie grabbed Rosie¡¯s phone in a swift motion and darted into the bathroom, where she turned on the faucet and submerged the device, finally ending the video call.


    Back in the hospital room, Rosie seethed with rage, her hands trembling from the chaos that had unfolded. ¡°What a bunch of imbeciles! They couldn¡¯t manage a simple task, and now, I ampletely exposed!¡± she eximed in anger.


    Sylvie¡¯s eyes shed with shared animosity towards Brenna. ¡°You assured us of their reliability, didn¡¯t you?¡± she said. ¡°Yet, they failed in carrying out your n.¡±


    Meanwhile, Vivian, who always seemed to maintain a cooler demeanor yet harbored a particrly deep-seated vendetta against Brenna, recalled her mortifying episode at the Imperial Bar. She had been coerced into drinking tainted alcohol, embarrassing herself in front of the Morrison family. Her parents and grandparents had been utterly disappointed in her, and her position at thepany had been sidelined.


    Vivian¡¯s sharp voice cut through the mounting tension. ¡°Didn¡¯t you all notice it? Rosie was unable to disconnect the call earlier,¡± she said. ¡°Ethan and Jayceon have rallied to Brenna¡¯s defense. Considering the powerful allies she¡¯s gathering, of course we failed in targeting her.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s fingers tightened around the nket, her frustration palpable as she said, ¡°It¡¯s exasperating! That woman has amassed a crowd of supporters, turning me into aughingstock. We can¡¯t just stand by and let Brenna triumph over us. What¡¯s our next move?¡±


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    Vivian responded with a calmness that contrasted sharply with Rosie¡¯s agitation. ¡°The tide isn¡¯t in our favor. We need to retreat for now and avoid making more people angry at us.¡±


    However, Rosie¡¯s defiance shone through her frustration. ¡°I don¡¯t care about that! Even after being ousted from the Harper family, I¡¯m more than capable of handling ordinary people. I want to see who¡¯s bold enough to confront me,¡± she said.


    With a firm expression, Vivian said, ¡°Calm down, Rosie. We must recognize that public sentiment currently sways toward Brenna. It¡¯s imperative we maintain our silence for now.¡±


    Sylvie, determined not to back down, proposed another n, saying, ¡°Why don¡¯t we let someone else handle it? I¡¯ve heard that the person from the Hewitt family is about to return. Brenna might find that person a formidable opponent.¡±


    Their expressions morphed into crafty,plicit smirks at the idea.


    Rosie let out a cold snort. ¡°You are right. I won¡¯t let Ethan end up with Brenna. The Hewitts hold a level of influence that the Harpers wouldn¡¯t dare to challenge.¡±


    Meanwhile, at the Harper Group building, Patrick seemed reluctant to leave.


    His wide, pleading eyes were locked on therge car model disyed on the table.


    Jayceon was trying to usher Patrick to leave quickly, nning to take him to find Ellie. However, it was clear that his son didn¡¯t want to leave now.


    Brenna quickly gauged Patrick¡¯s attachment to the car model and said to him, ¡°After my lecture, I¡¯ll give you this model, okay? Why don¡¯t you leave with your dad for now and let me finish up here?¡±


    Patrick nodded, his small face lighting up with a smile.


    As they exited the auditorium, Ethan turned to Jayceon, offering a genuine smile. ¡°Well, it looks like you¡¯ve just gained a son.¡±


    Jayceon, however, couldn¡¯t bring himself to return the smile. The weight of his family¡¯s turmoil pressed heavily on him. Soon, the world would know of his newfound son, and the implications of that revtion were far from simple.


    The child¡¯s arrival meant a shift in inheritance rights, and Jayceon feared that few would wee him with open arms. Doubts would inevitably arise regarding the child¡¯s identity, and there would be no shortage of people eager to challenge it.


    ¡°Thank you this time,¡± Jayceon said to Ethan, his voice heavy with gratitude. He then bent down to meet Patrick¡¯s gaze, asking gently, ¡°Where is your mother, Patrick?¡±


    Your next adventure is at g  al n ovels . con


    Patrick¡¯s eyes remained fixed on Jayceon, his heart swelling with joy at the presence of his father. He had longed for this moment and, now that it was here, there was no doubt in his young heart that this man before him was truly his father.


    ¡°She¡¯s at Bayview Apartments,¡± he replied obediently.


    Jayceon¡¯s heart softened as he looked at the boy. He said, ¡°Alright, let¡¯s go see your mom now.¡±


    Ethan watched Jayceon leave, his emotions a mix of frustration and determination. He couldn¡¯t fathom why Ernst, Brenna¡¯s brother, had targeted her like that. Determined to uncover the truth, he made his way directly to Ernst¡¯s office.


    The atmosphere around Ernst¡¯s office was tense, charged with an eerie silence that belied the storm brewing inside. Outside the office, the secretaries huddled.


    Together, the secretaries whispered with curiosity as they tried to eavesdrop on the heated discussion inside.


    Inside the office, Shepard was having an argument with Ernst. The secretaries, who had been with thepany for years, had never witnessed such a scene before. They were so focused on what was happening inside the office that they barely registered Ethan¡¯s arrival.


    Ethan paused at the slightly open door of Ernst¡¯s office, hearing the muffled but intense exchange between Shepard and Ernst. He knocked firmly twice before pushing the door open and stepping inside.


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    Inside, Ernst stood resolute by his desk as Shepard confronted him, his face etched with anger.


    ¡°She¡¯s your sister, Ernst. You stripped her of her dignity by questioning her publicly. Is this the right behavior of a brother? You let unfounded gossip sway your judgment instead of trusting her. Is someone who acts on hearsay without proof worthy of leading thepany as CEO? Who filled your mind with such nonsense?¡±


    Ernst¡¯s expression was grim, marked by a dawning realization of his misjudgment. He had ced his faith in Rosie, believing she was above spreading falsehoods. Now, confronted with the reality that Rosie had manipted him into this debacle, he understood the gravity of his mistake.


    Now, he not only needed to leave thepany, but his reputation within the Harper Group was also tarnished, with colleagues whispering about his harsh treatment of his own sister.


    Ernst¡¯s voice was devoid of warmth as he spoke. ¡°You don¡¯t have to say more. I¡¯ll just step down and leave thepany.¡±


    Shepard swallowed his frustration, gave Ethan a curt nod, and strode out of the CEO¡¯s office.


    Outside, the secretaries in the adjacent office quickly retreated to their desks and refocused on their work, avoiding any sign of curiosity. Only a younger secretary couldn¡¯t hide her concern. She was Sabine. Her phone streamed Brenna¡¯s internal live broadcast. On the screen, Brenna remainedposed, her graceful demeanor unshaken by the earlier confrontation. She continued exining a car modelponent as if nothing had transpired.


    Sabine wasn¡¯t truly watching the live broadcast. Instead, she strained to pick up any sounds from inside the CEO¡¯s office.


    But the thick walls and closed door left her with nothing. She was particrly worried about a possible confrontation between Ethan and Ernst.


    She made her way to the pantry, brewed two cups of coffee, and set off toward the office, using the delivery as an excuse to check the situation inside.


    In the office, Ernst leaned back in his chair, irritation flickering in his gaze as he regarded Ethan. ¡°Are you here to confront me, too?¡± he asked.


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    Ethan pulled out a chair and sat down across from him. He could see Ernst was already on edge, unwilling to discuss what had happened in the auditorium. Still, he needed to understand why Ernst had acted the way he had.


    ¡°I¡¯m not here to confront you,¡± Ethan said evenly. ¡°I just want to know the reason you did that. Brenna is your sister. Even if the child is hers, calling her out in public like that was unnecessary. You could have spoken to her in private about the matter. What you did isn¡¯t like you, Ernst.¡±


    Ernst let out a dry chuckle, unimpressed. ¡°You im you¡¯re not confronting me, yet you¡¯re already passing judgment.¡±


    His mind was overwhelmed with questions about why Rosie had lied to him. Did she take him for a fool?


    He needed answers. But he had been unable to reach her by phone, so he nned to visit her at the hospitalter.


    Still agitated, Ernst said to Ethan, ¡°I get it¡ªyou¡¯re trying to defend Brenna, keep her from facing humiliation. I¡¯ll im responsibility for what happened today. The handover will bepleted soon, and I¡¯ll step away from the CEO position.¡±


    Ethan smirked slightly, recognizing that Ernst was still harboring anger toward him. ¡°Let¡¯s focus on what¡¯s important. Did Rosie ask you to go after Brenna?¡± he said.


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    Ernst¡¯s eyes narrowed as he studied Ethan. ¡°Are you nning to retaliate against Rosie for Brenna?¡± he asked.


    Ethan noted the change in Ernst¡¯s demeanor, knowing he was right about this. Rosie had been behind the matter. He asked, ¡°Did Rosie also call you? Was it Rosie who told you Brenna had brought a child to the Harper Group?¡±


    Ernst didn¡¯t respond immediately. Instead, he scrutinized Ethan, well aware of how fiercely he protected those he cared about. After what had happened to Brenna earlier, there was no doubt that Ethan was angry about the matter. And knowing Ethan, Ernst believed he would likely seek revenge for Brenna.


    Ernst hesitated before speaking, his tone cautious. ¡°What exactly are you going to do? Rosie has already suffered enough. She has been cast out of the Harper family and has forfeited her shares. Now, after the car ident, she¡¯s lying in a hospital bed, badly injured. Do you really need to add to her misery? Brenna only faced some minor grievances¡ªnothing serious. In fact, all this attention has only boosted her reputation.¡±


    Ernst looked at Ethan, irritated as he noted how fiercely Ethan was defending Brenna.


    ¡°Think about it,¡± Ernst continued. ¡°Brenna hasn¡¯t lost anything. You¡¯re not seriously considering going after Rosie, are you? Seeking revenge over this? Rosie has known you since she was a child. Are you really going to be so cruel to her?¡±


    Ethan¡¯s expression turned icy. ¡°We¡¯ve been friends for years, and I never took you for someone who can¡¯t tell right from wrong. So, just because someone¡¯s scheme failed, we should not hold them responsible and just let them off the hook? You should see the ws in your logic.¡±


    The room was thick with tension until a soft knocking disrupted the silence.


    Ernst¡¯s expression eased slightly as he said, ¡°Come in.¡±


    Sabine stepped inside, bncing two cups of coffee. As she set them down, she discreetly observed the two men. She could see whatever they had been discussing wasn¡¯t pleasant.


    As just a secretary, she knew better than to interfere. Without a word, she ced the coffee on the table and turned to leave.


    Ethan was a familiar visitor at the Harper Group whenever he came to see Ernst, so Sabine had long memorized how he liked his coffee. She didn¡¯t go far after leaving.


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    The office. Pausing by the door, she lingered, ears pricked for any snippets of conversation.


    Inside, Ernst sighed, his voiceced with resignation. ¡°Rosie is already in a pitiful state. She realizes her mistake. You really should forgive her.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s expression remained calm. But Ernst knew his friend too well. The calmer Ethan seemed, the angrier he actually was.


    Ernst added, ¡°I¡¯ll speak to Rosie about thister. There¡¯s no need for you to be involved. Brenna is fine, isn¡¯t she? I¡¯ll apologize to her properly andfort herter. Can¡¯t we just move on from this?¡±


    Ethan was perplexed by Ernst¡¯s stance. He said, ¡°Brenna is your sister by blood. She endured so much suffering in the Barrett family before. Now that she¡¯s back with the Harper family, why aren¡¯t you more supportive? Instead, you¡¯re aligning with Rosie to go against her.¡±


    Ernst shook his head, his tone full of conviction. ¡°You think Brenna had it hard? What about Rosie? Brenna at least still has her parents. Even during her toughest times with the Barrett family, she wasn¡¯t deprived of basic necessities and her parents¡¯ love. Rosie, on the other hand, lost her parents young. Do you have any idea what it¡¯s like to depend entirely on the goodwill of others to live? Rosie never shared how that felt with you, did she? She had to please everyone just to ensure she wasn¡¯t thrown out. She has never felt secure.¡±


    After a pause, he continued, ¡°Look at her now¡ªshe¡¯s been kicked out of the family, hasn¡¯t she? Forced by Brenna to the point where she can¡¯t even call her foster parents Mom and Dad anymore. Don¡¯t you think Brenna is taking things way too far? To me, Rosie is the one who deserves sympathy. Ethan, I can¡¯t understand you, either. Rosie has been part of your life since childhood. Yet, the moment Brenna came along, you were quick to propose to her. What does Brenna have that Rosie doesn¡¯t?¡±


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    Ernst¡¯s voice grew heated as he said, ¡°Rosie¡¯s actions are driven by fear of losing what she has. If you had just agreed to marry her, would she still have feltpelled to act out like this?¡±


    Ethan¡¯s expression hardened, his disagreement evident. ¡°Losing her parents is no excuse for her to target Brenna,¡± he said.


    Ernst, feeling a mix of frustration at Ethan and sympathy for Rosie, said, ¡°I never thought you¡¯d be so cold. Rosie grew up alongside you, yet here you are, siding against her.¡±


    Ethan decided further discussion was useless. No amount of reasoning seemed enough to sway Ernst from his protective stance toward Rosie. Standing up, he said firmly, ¡°As a man, I will stand by the person I love.¡±


    Without another word, he turned and left.


    With one final attempt, Ernst raised his voice and shouted, ¡°Just forgive Rosie this time!¡±


    Ethan continued on, not turning back or responding.


    Shortly after Ethan had left, Sabine entered the office, her expression filled with concern. She approached the CEO¡¯s desk. ¡°Ernst, you shouldn¡¯t keep doing this. Rosie has targeted Brenna time and again, and now, she¡¯s just facing the consequences. You¡¯ve defended her more than enough. You don¡¯t owe her anything. It¡¯s time for you to ignore Rosie and make things right with Brenna. Maybe then you won¡¯t have to leave the Harper Group.¡±


    She saw Ernst sitting silently, his gaze distant. Approaching him, she gently cradled his head, soothing him.


    ¡°Brenna fighting back isn¡¯t unjust. Rosie simply met her match,¡± Sabine whispered. Despite knowing this, she had continued to handle Ernst¡¯s affairs, often taking actions against Brenna without his direct order.


    She harbored no regrets, even if it meant crossing Brenna.


    Ernst remained silent, eyes closed.


    Regardless of what Sabine advised, he had his own thoughts on the matter.


    Their moment was interrupted by a knock. Sabine quickly adjusted her posture, stepping away from Ernst as the door opened.


    Nelson Courtenay, a secretary, stepped inside, fully aware of Sabine¡¯s rtionship with Ernst yet acting as though he didn¡¯t have a clue. Suspecting they might be in the middle of something personal, he had paused briefly after knocking before making his way in.


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    ¡°What¡¯s the matter, Nelson?¡± Ernst asked, his voice weary.


    ¡°Mr. Harper, Mr. Shepard Harper has requested Sabine¡¯s presence in his office,¡± Nelson said politely and then exited.


    Sabine¡¯s face clouded with worry. Being summoned by Shepard likely meant she was about to face serious repercussions. She had been responsible for handling Brenna¡¯s lecture, and her handling of it had been grossly negligent. Company policy dictated that she might face severe consequences, with the lightest being a public reprimand and loss of bonuses. The worst oue could be possible dismissal and industry cklisting.


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid my days as your secretary here are over,¡± she said to Ernst. ¡°Join my ownpany. After what happened, it¡¯s unlikely any otherpany will hire you.¡±


    Ernst was aware of the consequences Sabine was facing.


    Taking a deep breath, Sabine left for the chairman¡¯s office.


    When she entered, she found it crowded with about twenty people, all involved in the incident against Brenna.


    Included in this group were four individuals who had conspired with Rosie.


    It was surprising how quickly Shepard had found out they had been involved in the matter.


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    Sabine, despite herself, couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of admiration. Shepard, visibly upset, was sitting there with a dark expression. He didn¡¯t waste time on pleasantries.


    He said, ¡°Don¡¯t assume I¡¯m clueless about where your loyalties lie, who¡¯s really pulling the strings, what you¡¯ve been up to, and the underhanded things you¡¯ve pushed your team to carry out. I¡¯m aware of it all.¡±


    He directed his ire at a senior executive at the forefront of the group, throwing a stack of documents at him. ¡°Look at what you¡¯ve done!¡±


    The executive, one of the people who had met with Rosie before, went pale. His hands shook while he flipped through the documents, which showed the chat history of him asking his people to target Brenna.


    He had never imagined that the private conversations on his phone would be exposed like this.


    The shock left him speechless, and cold sweat streamed down his face.


    Thepany had long been split into various factions, with internal power struggles happening regrly. The chairman was fully aware of it, but as long as the executives continued bringing in profits, he had chosen to look the other way.


    This was the first time the chairman was behaving like this.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I messed up,¡± he said, and after finishing reading the documents, he passed them to the executive next to him.


    Marco Boyd, the sales department manager, had built a solid reputation for his ster performance. His impressive results earned him a generous year-end bonus, and he was widely seen as an essential pir of the sales team. He led a high-performing group of salespeople whose efforts brought in major profits for thepany. The vice president in charge of sales thought highly of him.


    He thought that all he had done was encourage a few of his subordinates to stir up some trouble and didn¡¯t think it was a big deal. Little did he know, he had gotten himself into serious trouble.


    Bypassing thepany¡¯s CEO altogether, the chairman took matters into his own hands¡ªa clear sign that the newly acknowledged daughter of the Harper family wasn¡¯t as irrelevant as Rosie had made her out to be. It was now painfully obvious that the chairman adored her and would go to great lengths to protect her.


    Now, he deeply regretted his actions. Helping Rosie had been an act of loyalty, nothing more. He hadn¡¯t gained a thing from it. And now, he was in trouble because of this.


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    He believed his luck couldn¡¯t have been worse.


    ¡°Mr. Harper, please forgive me. I know I made a terrible mistake,¡± he begged Shepard, his voice trembling with desperation. He even thought of dropping to his knees.


    Another manager, Bobbi Sugden, who was around his age and had elderly parents and young children to look after, saw his chat records in the documents and was filled with regret. His face turned pale, and he was too stunned to speak.


    Bobbi wiped the sweat from his brow, the full weight of his mistake finally sinking in. He should never have trusted Rosie. After all, Brenna was Shepard¡¯s biological daughter. How could a niecepare to that? Winning first ce in a designpetition was enough proof of Brenna¡¯s talent. And even if she wasn¡¯t the most talented, it was clear that the Harper family cherished her deeply.


    He had been a fool for going against Brenna.


    He dropped to his knees and said, ¡°Mr. Harper, I was wrong. I swear I¡¯ll never make that kind of mistake again. I let ambition blind me. I¡¯m willing to offer a personal apology to Miss Brenna Harper.¡±


    With trembling hands, he passed the documents to the manager from the design department named L Hinchcliffe.


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    L had been the most proactive, taking the lead in targeting Brenna earlier. He had even gone so far as to offer financial incentives to encourage others to insult Brenna, sharing photos of her with Patrick to stir up trouble.


    At just 28, L was handsome, young, and incredibly skilled. When Rosie worked at the Harper Group, she had treated him exceptionally well.


    His loyalty to Rosie ran deep, and he would do anything for her. Unlike the others, L hadn¡¯t realized his mistake and was very angry. As L flipped through the documents, his frustration boiled over.


    In an attempt to justify his actions, he said to Shepard, ¡°Mr. Harper, Miss Brenna Harper is so young, and she doesn¡¯t have the qualifications to give a lecture to us. A lot of people were already unhappy about her giving a lecture. And then, she brought that child who calls her Mommy. That¡¯s what sparked the reaction. You can¡¯t me us for that.¡±


    Shepard scoffed, his eyes narrowing as he fixed L with a cold re. He said, ¡°That¡¯s no excuse for attacking my daughter. I have already contacted the police. They will be here soon, and these documents will be handed over to them to determine your crime. You won¡¯t be working at the Harper Group anymore.¡±


    Angrily, he finished speaking and waved them away.


    A wave of fear rippled through the group, many of them dropping to their knees before Shepard in panic.


    Sabine was motionless, her mind struggling to grasp what she had just heard.


    Shepard had always been kind to his employees, often dining with them and asking for their thoughts on thepany, showing a genuinely friendly attitude. This was the first time Shepard had ever fired members of management so ruthlessly.


    Sabine was gripped by despair. Being fired was one thing, but ending up behind bars was something she couldn¡¯t bear.


    She said, ¡°Everyone, listen to me. Let¡¯s go apologize to Miss Harper and beg for her forgiveness. We will also offer herpensation. Let¡¯s ask her not to get the police involved, alright?¡±


    Her words were met with immediate support.


    ¡°Yeah, let¡¯s go apologize to Miss Harper. We don¡¯t want to end up in jail.¡±


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    ¡°Stop right there!¡± Shepard stood up abruptly, his voice cold andmanding. ¡°You don¡¯t deserve to go anywhere near my daughter. When you plotted this, what were you thinking? You are not idiots. You knew attacking her would damage her reputation, and yet you did it anyway. You don¡¯t deserve her forgiveness.¡±


    With her face flushed with indignation, Sabine stepped forward and said, ¡°Mr. Harper, Miss Harper¡¯s actions led to misunderstandings. Didn¡¯t we have the right to voice our own opinions?¡±


    Marco frowned at Sabine, thinking she was only making things worse by refusing to admit her mistake. He knew she had a rtionship with Ernst, and even if she left the Harper Group, she could still rely on Ernst. But what about him? He was afraid of being cklisted from the entire industry.


    Desperation crept into his voice as he said to Shepard, ¡°Mr. Harper, I don¡¯t share her views. I realize I was wrong. I¡¯m willing to issue a public apology in thepany¡¯s group chats. Please don¡¯t fire me, Mr. Harper.¡±


    Bobbi dropped to his knees and crawled to Shepard¡¯s feet. ¡°Yes, yes, I am also willing to publicly apologize. Please don¡¯t fire me, Mr. Harper. I have elderly parents to care for and young children depending on me. I swear I¡¯ll never make such a foolish mistake again.¡±


    As they spoke, they quickly pulled out their phones, hastily typing up apology messages and posting them for the entirepany to see. Others followed their lead, and slowly, Shepard¡¯s stern expression softened a little.


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    The clock struck twelve, and Brenna had just finished her final presentation when a group of people approached from the sides of the stage. They arranged themselves in a straight line, facing the audience. Marco spoke first, leading the group in apologizing to Brenna in front of everyone.


    ¡°Miss Harper, I am sorry. I¡¯m Marco Boyd, head of the sales department. In our group chat, I crossed a line with myments about you, and it wasn¡¯t right. I recognize my mistake and ask for your forgiveness. Something like this won¡¯t happen again.¡±


    In truth, Marco wasn¡¯t entirely sincere. His apology was driven by the fact that he was unwilling to lose the high sry and generous year-end bonus he could get working at the Harper Group. He knew he wouldn¡¯t earn this much elsewhere.


    He had mortgages for a car and a house to pay, as well as a family to support, including his wife, children, and elderly parents. The thought of losing his job was unbearable.


    He finished speaking and respectfully bowed to Brenna.


    One by one, his colleagues followed suit, also apologizing to Brenna. Brenna, ever gracious and mindful of the public setting, chose not to hold a grudge.


    With a calm tone, she said, ¡°I forgive you all.¡±


    Brenna didn¡¯t want to say much to those who had hurt her. She quickly gathered her things and left.


    Although many hade forward to apologize, L had not. He had refused to apologize to Brenna and had been taken away by the police.


    Leaving the auditorium, Brenna stepped into the elevator and found herself face-to-face with Sabine. They were the only ones in the elevator.


    Sabine¡¯s expression was cold as she shot Brenna a sharp look, her voice dripping with sarcasm. ¡°Miss Harper, it must feel like a victory, having so many people apologize to you in front of a crowd. Congrattions on restoring your reputation publicly.¡±


    Brenna immediately recognized the sarcasm in Sabine¡¯s tone. She asked, ¡°Does that bother you?¡±


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    Sabine let out a derisiveugh, clearly mocking Brenna. She replied, ¡°Bothered? Hardly. In fact, I admire you, Miss Harper. Everyone who tried to undermine you failed miserably. We¡¯re simply not in your league. By the way, I must ask, is Ernst¡­¡±


    ¡°Actually, your brother?¡± Brenna suddenly realized that Sabine had feelings for Ernst. Otherwise, why would she confront her over him?


    ¡°What does that have to do with you?¡± Brenna asked, an edge in her tone.


    Sabine¡¯s face flushed with anger as she locked eyes with Brenna. ¡°Miss Harper, given that Ernst is your brother and leads the Harper Group, how could you so easily push him aside for your own benefit? You are so selfish! You should have endured a little grievance and not made Ernst leave thepany. Do you realize the loss his departure means for thepany? He¡¯s an exceptional CEO, and you¡¯ll never match his achievements, no matter how hard you try.¡±


    With a quick movement, Brenna¡¯s hand struck Sabine¡¯s cheek, and her words followed sharply. ¡°An exceptional CEO? I¡¯m sorry, but your standards must be set pretty low. If he can¡¯t tell the difference between truth and lies and is so easily influenced, it¡¯s not fitting at all to call him ¡®exceptional.¡¯ I think he is as foolish as you!¡±


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    Brenna was very angry. ¡°It¡¯s no surprise he has been taken advantage of; he is surrounded by foolish people like you.¡±


    Her voice turned cold. ¡°You were aware of that agreement he signed, weren¡¯t you?¡±


    Sabine¡¯s face turned pale as unease swept over her. She had, after all, been the one to push Ernst to sign that agreement.


    ¡°Ernst¡¯s current situation is partly your doing,¡± Brenna said.


    With a hardened gaze, Sabine admitted, ¡°Yes, I was aware of the agreement and supported Ernst signing it because I believe you are not fit to lead the Harper Group! Ernst asked for my coboration with you today, but I intentionally overlooked it. I even rigged the projector to ruin your image with apromising photo, but unfortunately, it failed to disy.¡±


    A trace of bitterness tinged her voice. ¡°You¡¯ve got some luck on your side! But don¡¯t think I will let you off easily. You¡¯ve tarnished Ernst¡¯s name, and I swear I¡¯ll make you pay for it.¡±


    Without a word, Brenna held up her phone, showing Sabine the ongoing recording of their conversation.


    In a desperate attempt, Sabine lunged to grab the phone from Brenna. However, Brenna skillfully avoided her grasp and swiftly pinned her against the elevator wall.


    Just then, the elevator chimed, and its doors slid open to reveal two police officers who stepped inside and immediately handcuffed Sabine. Panic gripped Sabine as she eximed, ¡°Brenna, this is low, even for you! Calling the cops ahead of time for¡ª¡±


    ¡°Something so trivial? How petty can you be? I¡¯ve apologized to you already. You can¡¯t just refuse to forgive me.¡±


    Brenna watched coldly as the officers escorted Sabine out. Afterward, she stepped out of the elevator and walked toward the chairman¡¯s office.


    At the hospital, Ernst stormed into Rosie¡¯s room, his eyes zing with fury.


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    Caught off guard, Sylvie and Vivian exchanged anxious looks, turning their attention to Rosie.


    Upon seeing Ernst¡¯s enraged demeanor, Rosie instantly grasped the gravity of the situation. She said, ¡°Ernst, please, let me exin¡ª¡±


    But before Rosie could finish speaking, Ernst¡¯s hand struck her face repeatedly. His anger remained intense as he struggled to regain hisposure.


    Watching the scene unfold, Sylvie and Vivian were horrified, seeing a side of Ernst they had never imagined possible. To them, Ernst had always been the gentle brother to Rosie, but today, he was different.


    Ernst had intentionally lingered by the door, eavesdropping for a while before entering. He had overheard Sylvie and Vivian plotting with Rosie on how to deal with Brenna next.


    His hand clenched tightly around the doorknob as he used all his strength to keep his anger in check.


    Now, he red at Sylvie and Vivian with such intensity that it seemed like he might rip them apart. Terrified, they huddled together, fearfully watching him, afraid he mightsh out physically. They stepped back a couple of paces, trying to keep a safe distance from him.


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    Ernst¡¯s stare was razor-sharp. He flung a stack of documents at Rosie¡¯s face and eximed angrily, ¡°Look at what you have done!¡±


    Rosie was frozen in shock, unable to process what had just urred. She cupped her face, staring at him in disbelief. The same Ernst who had always been gentle with her had just struck her.


    Tears began to stream down her face. Once she realized it had truly been Ernst who had hit her, she struggled to ept the reality. Ernst¡¯s anger was consuming, and his eyes burned with an intensity she had never seen before.


    As Rosie snapped out of her daze, it quickly dawned on her that Ernst had uncovered something serious. Her eyes dropped to the scattered documents strewn across the bed.


    The documents contained chat logs from the day before involving several senior executives. Some messages came from thepany¡¯s executive chat, others from the management group, and there were also conversations with their staff, all urging their teams to stir up trouble.


    Rosie flipped through the pages in disbelief, her fingers trembling. Among them, she found a private message from Sabine, reporting back on the progress of their ns to target Brenna.


    Rosie couldn¡¯t bring herself to meet Ernst¡¯s eyes. Her hands shook as her mind scrambled for a way to defend herself.


    Sylvie and Vivian picked up a few of the documents. With each page they turned, their expressions grew more shocked. Their carefullyid ns to sabotage Brenna had been exposed.


    The two exchanged a nce, silently agreeing not to confess to anything.


    From their expressions alone, Ernst could tell they were the ones behind the entire scheme.


    ¡°Rosie, you have truly let me down. I always thought you were just acting out because Brenna¡¯s return stole some of the spotlight you were used to. I assumed you were just a little envious. But I never imagined you would go so far as to fabricate lies, to scheme with the intent to destroy Brenna¡¯s reputation. When did you be so malicious?¡± Ernst said.


    Rosie began to avert her eyes, her gaze flitting nervously around the room. Finally, she mustered the courage to say, ¡°Ernst, do you really believe Brenna is innocent?¡±


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    Her voice cracked as fresh tears poured down her cheeks. She sobbed uncontrobly, overwhelmed by a deep sense of injustice that gnawed at her.


    She continued, ¡°Ernst, do you even know how my leg got broken? My car was in perfect condition, sitting safely in the garage. I drove it just over two weeks ago without a single issue. But a few days ago, after Brenna forced me out and stole my shares, the brakes failed the moment I drove my car! Just likest time. How could the brakes fail twice by coincidence?¡±


    She wiped her tears with a crumpled tissue, her voice rising with emotion as she pressed on with her usations. ¡°And thest time, when all my clothes were shredded¡ªthat was her, too! Think about it. Who else in this family despises me that much? Who else could it be if not her?¡±


    Ernst¡¯s expression darkened, his stare turning frigid. ¡°You are still refusing to admit your own wrongdoing? Even if she did those things, ask yourself why. Do you think she just woke up one morning and decided to target you for no reason? Have you ever stopped to consider what you did to her first?¡±


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    ¡°No!¡± Rosie screamed, her emotions unraveling like a thread pulled too tight. ¡°It¡¯s all her fault! She never should havee back!¡±


    Ernst had assumed Rosie was simply acting spoiled, seeking attention and sympathy out of envy. He hadn¡¯t expected her to be this stubborn and misguided. He said, ¡°She is my sister! Why shouldn¡¯t shee back?¡±


    Rosie eximed, ¡°So now you think she is your sister? Then what about me? What am I? Am I not your family? You are a hypocrite! Get out! Get out of my sight! I never want to see you again. You guys are the real family, and I¡¯m just the outsider, destined to lose everything to Brenna! I guess I deserve it!¡±


    ¡°You are unbelievable!¡± Ernst scoffed, thoroughly disappointed. He grabbed a few documents and shook them at her. ¡°Stop trying to change the subject. I just want a¡ª¡±


    ¡°Straight answer. Did you do this?¡±


    Rosie¡¯s defiance crumbled instantly. ¡°Yes, I did it.¡±


    A fleeting look of regret crossed her face, but it vanished just as quickly.


    In the very next second, she said defiantly, ¡°But so what? Isn¡¯t she fine? Why are you making such a big deal out of this? Why are you so angry? She hasn¡¯t evene here and confronted me!¡±


    Ernst let out a heavy sigh, realizing she was beyond saving. ¡°My father has already contacted the police. They have copies of these documents. L refused to admit his wrongdoing or apologize, so they arrested him. As for the other executives, they publicly apologized to Brenna in front of over two thousand people after her lecture, and she chose to forgive them. Because of that, the police didn¡¯t arrest them. If you are willing to record a public apology video, you might avoid jail time. The choice is yours.¡±


    Ernst mmed the door behind him as he stormed out.


    In the hospital room, Rosie furiously ripped the documents containing the chat records to shreds as anger boiled inside her.


    She shredded the papers with reckless force, flinging the scraps across the room while shouting at the top of her lungs.


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    At that very moment, Sylvie¡¯s and Vivian¡¯s phones buzzed almost simultaneously. Their brows furrowed as they checked their screens. Their expressions immediately changed.


    A breaking headline shed across Shirie¡¯s news app: ¡°Harper Group Executive L Hinchcliffe Arrested on Charges of Defamation.¡± Vivian and Sylvie were utterly stunned. Ernst hadn¡¯t been exaggerating to frighten Rosie. He had been telling the truth just now!


    Vivian turned ghostly pale as she handed her phone to Rosie. ¡°Rosie, look at this.¡±


    Rosie stared at the screen, speechless. She shook her head in denial, but the fury in her eyes only deepened.


    Vivian knew Rosie didn¡¯t want to face reality and give up, but there was no way around it. They had failed, and the only thing left for Rosie was to own up to her mistake and apologize.


    ¡°Rosie, you have to issue a public apology. If you don¡¯t, you might actually end up behind bars,¡± Vivian said.


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    Sylvie nodded and added, ¡°She is right. Rememberst time when you hired Jay to frame Brenna? We went to great lengths to get Ernst to help you. But this time, I don¡¯t think he will help you. He is really furious, Rosie.¡±


    ¡°No!¡± Rosie shrieked, her frustration boiling over. ¡°I would rather rot in prison than apologize to Brenna! Why should I apologize to her? What has she ever done to deserve my apology? Our n was wless! It was supposed to work! How did it all fall apart?¡±


    Rosie refused to ept this, her tears falling as defiance burned in her eyes.


    Vivian was the most level-headed and strategic among them. Despite the chaos unfolding, she had already mapped out a n to help Rosie. She said, ¡°Just trust me on this. Apologize to Brenna online. As long as you can stay out of jail, we¡¯ll¡­¡±


    ¡°Have plenty of opportunities to settle the score with herter. Let¡¯s get through this first.¡±


    But Rosie was as stubborn as a mule. She t-out refused to post a public apology video. Instead, she kept borrowing Sylvie¡¯s phone and logging into her ount to check the messages in the Harper Group¡¯s chat groups.


    The employee and executive groups were all muted. Each group had over twenty messages sent by the Harper Group¡¯s executives and a handful of employees.


    Every message came from a different person, each issuing a public apology to Brenna.


    Even Sabine, one of Rosie¡¯s closest allies, had posted an apology. Her message was long and full of sincere words.


    ¡°I am Sabine Gordon, head of the CEO¡¯s secretary department. During Brenna Harper¡¯s professional seminar, I was assigned to assist her. However, blinded by my own prejudice and jealousy, I failed to fulfill my duties. Worse yet, I spread malicious rumors within thepany, falsely iming that Ms. Harper had a child out of wedlock. I deeply regret my actions and offer my sincerest apologies to Ms. Harper for the harm I caused. I humbly ask for her forgiveness and a chance to make things right. Lastly, I must rify that I did not act on my own initiative. I was merely following the orders of Miss Rosie Harper¡­¡±


    The apologies from the others mirrored Sabine¡¯s, each one shifting the me onto Rosie, iming they had acted under orders and not of their own will.


    g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s??????? brings great stories


    The more Rosie read, the hotter her anger boiled. ¡°Sabine used to follow me around like a puppy, always ttering me. And now, when it counts, she turns on me? They are all a bunch of traitors!¡±


    Vivian scanned the messages with a deepening frown. ¡°Rosie, they are forcing you to apologize. They are all throwing you under the bus. Every employee group chat has these kinds of apology statements. At this rate, I don¡¯t think you will be able to stay at the Harper Group for much longer.¡±


    Sylvie was seething. ¡°This has to be Brenna¡¯s doing. She hasn¡¯t been affected much, but she has pushed you into the spotlight. Now, everyone is turning against you. From the employees to the executives at the Harper Group, they all see you as maniptive now. They know you have targeted Brenna. You have be the viin everyone loves to hate. Brenna¡¯s sess is practically guaranteed now. Honestly, I wouldn¡¯t be surprised if she ends up taking over the Harper Group in the future.¡±


    ¡°Enough!¡± Rosie snapped, her frustration boiling over. She finally realized that Brenna had set her up with a calcted n designed to ruin herpletely and kick her out of the Harper Group for good.


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    Such a ruthless n! How could she not have seen iting?


    ¡°I¡¯ll apologize!¡± Rosie blurted out, her tone sharp with sudden resolve. ¡°However, I¡¯ll make myself look like I was pushed to the edge. You two will help me write it. I want the public to know I didn¡¯t do it on purpose. That Brenna¡¯s just too overbearing, and I had no choice but to act that way.¡±


    Sylvie and Vivian nodded in agreement, immediately pulling out their phones to begin drafting the apology statement for Rosie.


    In the evening, Brenna returned to the Harper family¡¯s home, only to find Ernsting down the stairs, his face as cold as stone, with Dalton following behind him. They both seemed tense. It looked like they had just had a heated argument.


    Brenna greeted them in a low voice, too drained from the day to concern herself with whatever disagreement had just taken ce. Ernst stared at Brenna for a moment. He had watched the live stream of her lecture earlier, and it was clear that she was truly a genius in automotive design, with many innovative ideas.


    ¡°Let¡¯s sit down and talk,¡± he said atst, motioning toward the living room sofa.


    Brenna handed her things to Julia. ¡°Please take these to my room.¡±


    Once Brenna settled onto the couch, Ernst went straight to the point. ¡°From now on, stop targeting Rosie. She has been kicked out of the family, had a car ident, and broken her leg. She has already faced the consequences of her actions.¡±


    Ernst¡¯s tone was firm andmanding, bordering on threatening, as he spoke to Brenna.


    His overbearing attitude made her look at him with irritation.


    Brenna responded with a frown, ¡°I wasn¡¯t targeting her.¡±


    Clearly annoyed by Brenna¡¯s cold and cutting response, Ernst pulled out his smartphone, tapped it a few times, and ced it on the table.


    With a gesture toward the phone and a frown, he said, ¡°Not targeting her? Then how do you exin the flood of negative attacks about her all over the web? You had someone do this for you, right?¡± His voice held a hint of usation, his face stern.


    Without even lifting the phone, Brenna nced at its screen disying a forum page. Headlines screamed controversy concerning Rosie, drawing massive attention.


    Feel the thrill at g ¦Á? ¦Ç¦Ò ¦Í?? ??s


    ¡°The Daughter of the Harper Family used of Paying for Defamation Against Her Sister.¡±


    ¡°Rosie Harper Allegedly Frames Her Sister over Illegitimate Child im in Inheritance Squabble.¡±


    ¡°Revealed: the Inside Story about the Daughter of the Harper Family Scandal Involving an Illegitimate Child¡­¡±


    Each post was a ma for views, soaring past the hundred-thousand mark.


    It was clear that these posts were all targeting Rosie.


    With a coldugh, Brenna¡¯s expression hardened, unimpressed by Ernst¡¯s usatory stance.


    Dalton, unable to hold back, finally interjected, ¡°Ernst, isn¡¯t this a bit much? Brenna was busy with the lecture at the Harper Group all day. When would she even have time to stir up trouble for Rosie online? Just look at the volume of posts¡ªsurely, you can see they¡¯re in the thousands?¡±


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    He also set his phone down on the table, disying the trending topics across various social media tforms. The ongoing dispute between the Harper sisters was topping the charts.


    With a forceful tap on the table, Dalton said, ¡°Take a look at what¡¯s trending. Do you really think Brenna has the time to generate this kind of buzz online? Ernst, you ought to gather some solid evidence before hurling usations at Brenna.¡±


    He continued to defend Brenna, saying, ¡°You¡¯ve always been sympathetic toward Rosie, given her tragic loss of her parents. However, that doesn¡¯t excuse her for consistently targeting Brenna. People are talking about the matter because it is serious; Rosie schemed to harm her own family. If the negative attention is too much for you, Ernst, perhaps you could consider paying to have the posts removed.¡±


    Dalton¡¯s face was unmistakably marked by anger.


    Ernst fixed a cold, using re on Dalton, displeased with his interference.


    He said, ¡°I didn¡¯t ask for your opinion, Dalton. Stay out of this. Brenna, did you do this?¡±


    Brenna quickly realized that Ernst was here specifically to confront her. ¡°It wasn¡¯t me. I spent my entire day busy with the lecture at the Harper Group,¡± Brenna replied.


    Ernst dismissed her exnation with a skeptical snort. ¡°Really? Then who¡¯s behind this? I¡¯ve been trying to get these posts removed, but they just keep reappearing. It¡¯s relentless, and even attempts to bury the trends have failed. Clearly, someone¡¯s stirring things up. And you stand to gain the most from it. If not you, then who did this?¡± His stare was heavy with suspicion.


    Brenna responded with a scornful smile, ¡°The public isn¡¯t blind. They see who¡¯s in the wrong. The continued presence of these posts only emphasizes the seriousness of Rosie¡¯s misconduct. Yet here you are, questioning me. Perhaps you should be advising Rosie to refrain from such malicious behavior in the future.¡±


    Ernst¡¯s anger boiled over, his voice rising sharply. ¡°Enough! I¡¯m just asking you to show somepassion toward Rosie. Can¡¯t you see? She has already lost everything. And now, you aim to destroy her reputation as well? Do you want to push her over the edge?¡±


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    ¡°You are being so unreasonable!¡± Dalton could no longer contain his frustration. ¡°Brenna is our sister, too, and she has done nothing wrong. How could you say something like that to her? Rosie¡¯s downfall was her own doing. Are you suggesting it is Brenna¡¯s fault?¡±


    Brenna fixed Ernst with a frosty stare. ¡°I get your point. You¡¯re asking me to go easy on her, to feel sorry for her. But remember how she turned on me, hiring Jay and a gang to harm me? Did she go easy on me then? And now, when her schemes fail, ¡­¡±


    ¡°You me me for being too cruel? That¡¯s just not fair! I¡¯m not taking any of your suggestions.¡±


    In response, Ernst¡¯s hands balled into fists. He grabbed his phone, his eyes simmering with fury. ¡°It¡¯s clear you care more about gains than family ties, unwilling to endure the slightest loss.¡±


    With a disdainful snort, he turned to leave.


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    At that moment, Shepard and Giselle came back from their stroll, taken aback by the tense atmosphere among the siblings, not knowing what had happened.


    However, Shepard, knowing Ernst well, said, ¡°Hold on. Before you go, I need to say something.¡±


    Reluctantly, Ernst stopped and returned to his seat.


    In a serious tone, Shepard said, ¡°Dalton, you need toe back to the family business now. You will step in as CEO of the Harper Group.¡±


    Dalton was taken aback and refused without a second thought. He said, ¡°Dad, I still want to act. Don¡¯t try to change my mind. We agreed from the beginning¡ªErnst would run thepany, and I could do whatever I wanted.¡±


    He immediately regretted the harsh words he had aimed at Ernst earlier. His father¡¯s stern expression made him uneasy.


    When he nced at Giselle, who remained silent, he realized his father wasn¡¯t joking this time.


    Ready to get away quickly, Dalton turned for the elevator.


    ¡°Stop right there!¡± Shepard barked. ¡°Trying to run away again?¡±


    Dalton stopped unwillingly and quickly voiced a thought that had just urred to him. ¡°Dad, you can¡¯t just change your mind. We had an agreement¡­ Moreover, I think Ernst has been doing well managing the Harper Group. Even if he made a mistake, shouldn¡¯t he have a chance to fix it?¡±


    Feeling a little bad about what he had just said, he looked at Brenna. Brenna¡¯s expression stayed calm. She had no intention of arguing and simply watched him quietly, waiting to hear what he would say next.


    Dalton felt cornered. ¡°Dad, Brenna, how about this? Ernst epts the punishment and leaves the Harper Group, just like we originally agreed. But what if wepromise? Let him step away for just a year, and then give him a chance toe back to thepany. That would work, right?¡±


    Shepard wasn¡¯t asking Ernst to step down merely because of the bet. He genuinely believed that Ernst wasn¡¯t thinking clearly and that cing the Harper Group in his hands was far too risky.


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    Even if he allowed Ernst to return to thepany in the future, he didn¡¯t want him to be the CEO.


    Shepard said, ¡°No. This isn¡¯t up for debate. Wrap up your current projects and stop epting new scripts. I¡¯ll handle things in the Harper Group for the next six months. After that, you are taking over thepany.¡±


    Dalton turned to look at Brenna, and suddenly, his eyes lit up with an idea. Smiling broadly, he said, ¡°Dad, how about letting Brenna take control of thepany? I hear she is doing a fantastic job running two studios, bringing in billions annually, even outperforming some Harper Group subsidiaries. She has a real talent for management. Why not let her take over?¡±


    He shed a triumphant smile, convinced he had juste up with the perfect solution.


    Shepard also recognized that. Despite being a woman, Brenna had demonstrated exceptional management skills and possessed a strong educational background. Her reputation within the Harper Group had also been rising steadily recently.


    ¡°Brenna, what do you say?¡± Shepard asked, genuinely open to the idea. After all, Brenna was a member of the Harper family and more than qualified to inherit the family business.


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    Brenna let out a softugh. ¡°Dad, not a chance. I¡¯m too busy. I just took on a major project of designing a fighter jet for the Weapons Research Institute, and I¡¯m also working on a new system.¡±


    She dropped her trump card, effectively refusing Shepard¡¯s suggestion. Everyone was shocked, but no one was more stunned than Shepard. He had always recognized Brenna¡¯s talent in mechanical design, but he had never imagined she would be working on fighter jets.


    This was a matter of national significance. Shepard nodded vigorously, his gaze fixed on Brenna with a new admiration. ¡°Brenna is by far the most aplished of all the Harper children!¡± he remarked.


    Giselle approached Brenna, sping her hand with excitement. ¡°Yes, Brenna truly is the most capable. What you are doing now is very important.¡±


    Then, she turned to Dalton, her expression stern. ¡°You have said enough. Start preparing to leave the entertainment industry.¡±


    Dalton pouted, clearly unwilling to ept his fate.


    After a long silence, Ernst finally spoke. ¡°I agree with Dad¡¯s decision. I have made mistakes, and I¡¯m willing to step down for a few years.¡±


    Shepard gave him a firm pat on the shoulder. ¡°You have several businesses under your management. Focus on managing those for now.¡±


    ¡°All right,¡± Ernst agreed with a hint of reluctance, though his tone remained respectful. ¡°Dad, I don¡¯t have any other requests. I just have one thing to ask¡ªplease spare Rosie. She has been through a lot.¡±


    Shepard let out a dry scoff. ¡°When have I ever gone after her?¡±


    Ernst was rendered momentarily speechless by that. He didn¡¯t know how to respond.


    He was stunned to discover that Brenna had connections at the national level. He had clearly underestimated her.


    A sense of inferiority crept in. However, he still saw Brenna as somewhat petty and vindictive.


    Additional chapters at g ??ln ov els .???? ??


    Even though Brenna and Rosie weren¡¯t even in the same league, Ernst still felt Brenna should show a bit more grace and let Rosie off the hook. Turning to her, he said, ¡°Brenna, as your brother, I¡¯m asking you to let Rosie off this time.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s gaze turned ice-cold as she met his eyes. ¡°As long as she doesn¡¯t cause trouble for me, I won¡¯t make a move against her.¡±


    Shepard¡¯s anger red, his voice sharp as he said to Ernst, ¡°You better make sure Rosie backs off. She has been like this since she was a kid¡ªstubbornly determined to get whatever she wants, no matter the cost. You know that better than anyone.¡±


    Though feeling frustrated, Dalton found himself agreeing with his father. ¡°Yeah, we spoiled Rosie growing up. Ernst, you need to have a word with her properly. She needs to change her ways and stop targeting Brenna.¡±


    Ellie woke upzily around six in the afternoon, finally dragging herself out of thefort of her soft bed. She had slept the entire day and was only woken up by hunger.


    Still wearing her pajamas, she walked into the living room, where the soft glow of the lights blended with the lively sounds of cartoons and quiet voices.


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    She assumed that Brenna hade back with her son, speaking quietly to allow her to rest without interruption.


    Yawning widely, Ellie spoke in her typicalid-back style. ¡°I¡¯m starving! Got anything to eat?¡±


    Her curls were messy, and her nightgown hung loosely, the slipping strap unintentionally exposing more than intended.


    Jayceon was sitting on the couch in a casual jacket, happily munching on chips with Patrick.


    The table before them was a feast of snacks, all the kinds kids loved. Next to them, a collection of takeout bags from a fancy restaurant sat invitingly with the contents still steaming.


    When Jayceon saw Ellie enter the living room like that, his heart skipped a beat. His nerves tensed as he set his chips down, stood up, and moved toward her with anticipation.


    ¡°Ellie!¡± he eximed, his voice brimming with excitement as he embraced her.


    Ellie, surprised by his sudden approach, responded with a cold attitude, ¡°Who gave you permission toe here?¡±


    Jayceon had expected this reaction from her. Years ago, Ellie had left him because she had been angry with him, and after all these years, her anger still hadn¡¯t faded.


    With a mix of disappointment and remorse, he nced at Patrick and said, ¡°Hey, Patrick, why don¡¯t you head to your room for a bit? I need to have a word with your mom.¡±


    Patrick, sensing the tension, offered a supportive nod to Jayceon before leaving. ¡°You can do it, Dad!¡±


    As Jayceon acknowledged his son¡¯s encouragement, Ellie had already gone to her bedroom and returned shortly after, now dressed in a more refined cotton-linen dress.


    The dress fell gracefully around her waist, giving her a sense of effortless yet striking elegance.


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    Her hair, now neatly arranged, radiated a sophisticated charm that seemed to soothe Jayceon¡¯s nerves.


    Approaching her with genuine regret in his voice, he said, ¡°It was all a big misunderstanding seven years ago. That woman was someone my mother wanted to introduce to me. I never went to meet her, and I had no intention of getting engaged to her. She is married to someone else now. Ellie, can we move past that? We have a son together. Please, give me another chance. We can start over.¡±


    Weak and starving, Ellie noticed the spread of food on the table. She figured Jayceon was probably the one who had bought it, so she had no appetite for any of it.


    She responded firmly, ¡°I¡¯m not here to fix things between us. I came back only because our son wanted to see his father.¡±


    Jayceon reached out for her hand.


    Ellie avoided his gesture and walked straight to the kitchen, opening the fridge to find something she could cook.


    Jayceon followed her into the kitchen, his hand stopping the fridge door as he said, ¡°Please don¡¯t stay angry with me. So many years have passed, and I know it¡¯s all my fault. If you need to punish me, do what you must, but don¡¯t shut me out. I thought you might be hungry, so I ordered some food for you. Say whatever is on your mind or do whatever you need to do, but you should eat a little something first to regain your strength, alright?¡±


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    He then retrieved the takeaway bags, carefullyying out the dishes on the dining table and arranging the utensils neatly.


    Ellie was indeed too hungry to refuse him and began eating without hesitation.


    Jayceon called Patrick over, serving him food and handing him the utensils, all while giving him a subtle signal.


    Patrick, not feeling very hungry, picked at his food, his attention more on helping Jayceon than on the meal.


    ¡°Mom, today Dad and I went to the paintball park! He was the viin, and I got to be the special forces soldier. It was awesome¡­¡± Patrick was brimming with excitement as he showered Jayceon with praise, eagerly recounting their adventure.


    ncing at Ellie with hopeful eyes, he said, ¡°Dad also got me a bunch of toys.¡±


    Sensing Ellie¡¯s displeasure, he hesitantly added, ¡°Mom, shouldn¡¯t we be a family and live together? Can we all sleep in the same room tonight? I want Dad to tell me a bedtime story.¡±


    Ellie furrowed her brows and responded firmly, ¡°Absolutely not.¡±


    Patrick¡¯s excitement faded into a sullen frown, his eyes welling up as he asked, ¡°But why? He¡¯s my dad, isn¡¯t he? Other kids have both their parents together at home; why can¡¯t I have that?¡±


    Encouraged by his son¡¯s words, Jayceon quickly said, ¡°Exactly, Ellie. We are a family, right? Shouldn¡¯t we live together?¡±


    He met Ellie¡¯s gaze boldly. ¡°A father¡¯s love is crucial for our son, right? You should think about what¡¯s best for him¡­¡±


    Ellie shot him a fierce look. ¡°Don¡¯t use our son to make your case!¡±


    Patrick dropped his fork and, with genuine innocence, approached Ellie, asking, ¡°Why don¡¯t you want Dad to live with us, Mom? He is really nice.¡±


    Ellie simmered with anger, shocked that after spending only a day with Jayceon, Patrick was already siding with him.


    Find what you love at g?ln¦Ò¦Í????s???????


    She said to Patrick, ¡°Listen, he can y with you during the day, but he can¡¯t live with us. He¡¯s your father, yes, but he¡¯s not my husband. Got it?¡±


    At the hospital, Sylvie had just equipped Rosie with a new phone and set it up with a SIM card.


    Rosie had barely started exploring social media and various online forums when her new phone began to ring. There was an unknown number on the screen.


    She quickly answered the call with a respectful tone. ¡°Hello.¡±


    ¡°Is this Rosie Harper?¡± came a rather unfriendly voice from a young woman, with noticeable street noise in the background.


    Unsure who was on the line and considering it might be rted to work, Rosie remained cordial. ¡°Yes, this is Rosie Harper. Who am I speaking with, and how can I assist you?¡±


    To her surprise, as soon as the caller confirmed who she was, her tone grew even sharper. Sheunched into a tirade.


    ¡°How could you act so disgracefully? You¡¯re Mr. Harper¡¯s niece, yet you lived in his home for years and even called him Dad. With their true daughter returning, your inability to ept her has led you to repeatedly attempt to harm her. You are so shameless!¡±


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    After a pause, the caller continued, ¡°You¡¯ve gone as far as hiring thugs to harm her. What¡¯s the problem? Can¡¯t handle how much better she is than you? What right do you have to feel jealous? Try achieving greatness on your own. And to stoop so low as to fabricate tales of her bearing a child illegitimately? You¡¯re utterly repulsive. Individuals like you don¡¯t deserve to live. It¡¯s a pity you didn¡¯t die together with your parents before!¡±


    ¡°Who is this?¡± Rosie demanded, her voice crackling with fury. She was being barraged with insults from this person, and she waspletely in the dark about her identity.


    Fuming, Rosie yelled back into the receiver, ¡°Who are you to say something like that to me? I¡¯m getting the police involved!¡±


    The caller on the line replied with increased arrogance, ¡°Oh, you¡¯re going to call the police? Go ahead! I¡¯d like to see who they¡¯ll end up taking away, given all your misdeeds!¡±


    Her words then quickly deteriorated into crude insults.


    Overwhelmed by anger, Rosie ended the call.


    Yet, within seconds, her phone rang again from another unknown number. Still reeling from the previous call, she answered in anger.


    ¡°Who is this?¡±


    A young man¡¯s voice shouted, brimming with hostility, ¡°Just who do you think you are, challenging the Harper family¡¯s true daughter? You should know your ce! You probably cursed your parents to death¡ª¡±


    Rosie ended the call immediately, refusing to endure more insults.


    ¡°Do these people have nothing better to do?¡± she muttered in dismay.


    Just then, her phone rang with yet another call from an unknown number.


    Rosie decided against taking the call this time. Instead, she removed the SIM card to avoid further disturbances.


    What had she done to deserve this? Why were these people attacking her?


    g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s£®?§àm takes you away


    Tears began to well up in Rosie¡¯s eyes as Sylvie and Vivian tried tofort her.


    Rosie looked at her phone, now silent, and muttered, ¡°How on earth did they get my number?¡±


    Both Sylvie and Vivian were equally baffled. They immediately started scouring the inte to see if there was any buzz about Rosie. Their search confirmed their fears: Rosie¡¯s name was being dragged through the mud across various social media tforms and forums.


    While browsing, Vivian stumbled upon a shocking revtion. ¡°Here it is! Someone posted your number online; the post has been shared over ten thousand times!¡±


    That exined the barrage of calls.


    Vivian reacted with indignation. ¡°Someone has obviously leaked your number on purpose!¡±


    Sylvie, clenching her jaw in anger, said, ¡°It has to be Brenna¡¯s doing!¡±


    She continued to peruse social media, frustrated by the intrusion into Rosie¡¯s privacy.


    Suddenly, she gasped, pointing at the screen, ¡°Look at this! They¡¯ve even posted about your hospital stay. Do you think they¡¯lle here to cause more trouble for you?¡±


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    Vivian expressed her concerns with a worried frown, saying, ¡°I hope it doesn¡¯te to that.¡±


    Rosie, feeling pushed to the limit, responded in anger, ¡°Let theme. I¡¯m ready to face anyone who tries to cause trouble here.¡±


    As darkness settled, Sylvie and Vivian remained uneasy. Vivian suggested, ¡°Perhaps it¡¯s safer if you don¡¯t stay here tonight. If someonees here to harm you, it might be difficult for you to escape quickly with your leg in this condition.¡±


    But Rosie felt secure in her family¡¯s influence. ¡°I¡¯m a Harper; no one would daree here to harm me. If they do, they¡¯re signing their own death warrant.¡±


    Reassured, Sylvie and Vivian departed after a while.


    Rachael came byter, bringing dinner for Rosie.


    The events of the day had taken their toll on Rosie¡¯s appetite, and she managed only a few bites before pushing the food away.


    Just then, the door suddenly burst open. A man in a baseball cap stormed in, arge bucket in hand. He marched up to Rosie¡¯s bed and said, ¡°You¡¯re Rosie, right?¡±


    Rosie didn¡¯t notice what he was holding and simply nodded.


    A secondter, with a loud ssh, the whole bucket of scraps came crashing down over Rosie, soaking her from head to toe.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Rosie¡¯s scream echoed through the room as she was suddenly covered in the foul mess.


    Rachael stood frozen in shock as Rosie was soaked in foul-smelling waste. It took her a moment to process what had happened. By the time she did, the person responsible had already vanished down the hospital corridor.


    She was stunned, unable to move for a moment. She didn¡¯t know what to do with Rosie, who was now covered in filth.


    Rosie kept screaming. Her voice drew a crowd of doctors, nurses, and patients.


    Your source of stories: galn¦Òv??ls.??????


    The young nurse and the older head nurse looked at her with apparent disgust. Neither of them showed the slightest bit of sympathy. Two junior nurses lingered by the door, whispering as they pointed at Rosie. ¡°So that¡¯s Rosie Harper? Serves her right for being so mean.¡±


    ¡°Look at her now. That¡¯s karma if I¡¯ve ever seen it.¡±


    Just then, the head nurse scowled and said, ¡°Clean her up now. We¡¯ll disinfect the areater. This is disgusting. What terrible luck for this hospital to have a patient like her. Get moving before the germs spread!¡±


    A doctor showed up momentster but didn¡¯t bothering any closer to Rosie to check on her. He took one look at her from the doorway and walked away.


    Rosie caught the stares from the other patients and their families gathered near her door. Their faces twisted with revulsion. She felt so filthy that, for a split second, she wanted to jump out the window. But she didn¡¯t want to die just because of this.


    Some in the crowd recognized her since she had been trending online. One person quietly snapped a photo of her. Within minutes, it was online and spreading fast.


    On the top floor of the Mitchell Group building, Ethan had just returned from the conference room when Neville approached him with a tablet. Neville said, ¡°Mr. Mitchell, as you instructed, we¡¯ve circted the news about Rosie on social media and the major local forums. There are already hundreds of thousands of negativements flooding in.¡±


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    Ethan took the tablet and nced at the posts. His face remained expressionless. Neville couldn¡¯t tell if the oue had met his expectations.


    After a pause, Neville continued, ¡°Someizens, iming they¡¯re driven by justice, have even found Rosie¡¯s contact information and home address. Now¡ª¡±


    Ethan gave a slight nod and raised a hand to interrupt him. ¡°Got it.¡±


    He looked uninterested in hearing the rest.


    After a pause, he asked, ¡°How¡¯s that shipment of ours?¡±


    Neville replied, ¡°It¡¯s not good. The shipment was taken away. I¡¯ve already contacted the Ward family, but they¡¯re refusing to return it. They im it belongs to them. Our team in Norview tried negotiating with them several times, but they got thrown out and even beaten up by the Ward family. The Wards warned us that if we keep pushing, we¡¯re asking for trouble.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s expression darkened. The shipment contained several tons of rare minerals vital to their operations. The materials were nearly impossible to source locally. He had spent years arranging for that cargo overseas. Now, before it even cleared the port, the Ward family had snatched it.


    Ethan said, ¡°This won¡¯t stand. That shipment is too important. Book me a flight to Norview. I¡¯ll deal with this personally.¡±


    ¡°Understood. I¡¯ll book it now and go with you tomorrow morning.¡±


    Neville looked at Ethan, waiting for his response. This trip was dangerous. The Ward family held serious sway in Norview. Their power made them nearly untouchable there.


    He added, ¡°I¡¯ll also have our bodyguards ready. We¡¯ll head there together.¡±


    Neville paused for a moment, images of past encounters with the Ward family flickering in his mind. The Ward family members were ruthless and had strong ties in both military and political circles. Reiming the shipment wouldn¡¯t be easy.


    After a moment¡¯s hesitation, he asked, ¡°Should we ask Miss Hewitt for help?¡±


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    Ethan frowned. ¡°Only if we¡¯ve got no other option. She¡¯s like a leech, impossible to shake off. I don¡¯t want to owe her any favors. The Hewitts might be powerful, but we¡¯re not weak.¡±


    Neville nodded in resignation. He knew how stubborn Ethan could be. The man never wavered, except when it came to Brenna. With her, he always seemed more patient.


    Neville said, ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll get everything ready.¡±


    Ethan acknowledged with a nod, then reached for his phone to call Brenna.


    Brenna was sketching designs on herputer, working on a fighter jet¡¯s outline.


    Dissatisfied with the design, she kept changing it.


    When her phone rang, she put it on speaker. The sound of Ethan¡¯s deep, steady voice pulled her out of her slump. Just hearing him made her spirit lift.


    ¡°Have you eaten?¡± Ethan gently asked.


    Brenna replied, ¡°Just finished eating. What about you?¡±


    After some casual chatting, Brenna ended the call with Ethan. She set her phone down, then noticed the flood of notifications lighting up her screen, all tied to the Harper Group and Rosie.


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    ?Chapter 344:


    ¡°Who¡¯s helping me get revenge? They¡¯ve posted so many negative things about Rosie,¡± Brenna muttered with a sneer while clicking through the posts.


    She noticed every one of them mmed Rosie for her malicious actions, yet not a single one mentioned her name.


    Brenna kept scrolling, scanning hundreds ofments. Still, no one brought her up.


    While she was caught up in reading thements, her phone rang again. This time, it was a call from Rosie.


    The second she answered, Rosie¡¯s voice exploded through the speaker.


    ¡°Are you behind all that trash about me on the inte?¡±


    Brenna listened to the furious voice on the other end of the line, easily picturing Rosie¡¯s seething expression.


    With a soft chuckle, she said, ¡°So it was you who started that rumor in thepany group chats about me having a child out of wedlock?¡±


    Rosie answered without missing a beat, ¡°Yeah, it was me. But so what? Tell me, were you behind those online posts attacking me?¡±


    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t you be apologizing to me now? Why are you confronting me like this?¡± Brenna stayed calm, unaffected by Rosie¡¯s yelling.


    Rosie was already convinced that Brenna was responsible for the matter, but there was little she could do about it. ¡°Apologize to you? And why should I do that? I¡¯m the real victim here; I¡¯m the one getting torn apart online!¡±


    Brenna remained unbothered. ¡°Suit yourself. I don¡¯t care about the matter anyway.¡±


    After saying that, she ended the call without hesitation and promptly blocked Rosie¡¯s number.


    Rosie gritted her teeth in frustration. She remembered that Isabe had been the one who had started all of this and angrily dialed Isabe¡¯s number.


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    Isabe was having dinner with the Barrett family, discussing how to revive their declining fortunes.


    Alec and Mack had been pouring their energy into reviving the Barrett Group¡¯s automotive division. Ever since Brenna left the Barrett family, they had hit rock bottom. Long-time clients disappeared, new ones were hard to find, and the meager trickle of current orders barely covered wages. They were not making a profit at all.


    Growing frustrated, Alec shot a sharp look at Isabe. ¡°Isn¡¯t Denis fond of you? Why can¡¯t he throw more orders our way? These few orders we are getting aren¡¯t even making us enough money to pay the staff. If this continues, we will go bankrupt.¡±


    Mack said, ¡°Exactly. The Wagner family also has an automotive division. We would be fine if only they could spare us a fraction of their business.¡±


    Isabe bristled, irritation ring beneath her polished exterior. Ever since she got involved with Denis, she began looking down on the Barretts, believing theycked¡­


    The refinement and power of true high society. Her father and brother had no business acumen and were incapable of steering the Barrett Group to greatness.


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 Chapter 345

    ?Chapter 345:


    She felt unlucky and couldn¡¯t help butpare her situation to Brenna¡¯s. While Brenna had walked away from the Barrett family and found herself thriving in a top-tier family, she was stuck watching her family go down. The Barrett Group was falling apart, and the only thing she could do to keep thepany from going bankrupt was to please Denis.


    She felt overwhelmed by the relentless pressure from the Barrett family. She felt like they were leeching off her.


    She said, ¡°You talk as if it¡¯s that simple. The Barrett Group deals in low-end products. The Wagner and Harper families operate in high-end industries. Even if they wanted to send us orders, we wouldn¡¯t have the capacity toplete them.¡±


    Frustrated, Alec scolded his daughter, shouting, ¡°What kind of attitude is that? Don¡¯t forget that you are not even married to Denis yet! You only have our family¡¯s support now. You are nothing without us!¡±


    Alec let out a heavy sigh, his eyes fixed on the news article on his phone. It was about Brenna teaching a prestigious masterss for top designers at the Harper Group. Shaking his head, he muttered, ¡°If we had known Brenna was this talented, we should have treated her better. Just look at her now, giving a masterss to top-tier designers. She is impressive. She owes it all to our family.¡±


    Isabe rolled her eyes, irritation creeping into her voice. ¡°What¡¯s the point of singing her praises? Her sess has nothing to do with you. She is the Harper family¡¯s daughter now. And despite everything she has achieved, she hasn¡¯t lifted a finger to help our family. In fact, I think she resents us and probably wishes for our downfall!¡±


    Ruby huffed in disgust, saying, ¡°What an ungrateful person she is! We raised her all these years. Our family is struggling while she is thriving now, and she hasn¡¯t shown an ounce of gratitude toward us.¡±


    Isabe couldn¡¯t help but feel that her parents were delusional. She said sarcastically, ¡°Gratitude? Why would she be grateful to our family? If anything, she is probably happy that we are in such a state now. Do you even know what Rosie said about her?¡±


    The Barrett family turned toward her with interest, eyebrows raised. Alec asked, ¡°What did she say?¡±


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    Isabe sneered, her disdain for the Barrett family growing stronger. She said, ¡°Rosie said Brenna is actually hoping for our family to go bankrupt and even had¡­


    Her friends steal our orders. The Barrett Group¡¯s current state is entirely her doing. And yet, you still speak highly of her? It¡¯s so absurd.¡±


    Ruby immediately said, ¡°Exactly! Don¡¯t forget how the Harper family treated us at Brenna¡¯s wee banquet! I should have killed Brenna when I had the chance!¡±


    Alec frowned, clearly displeased with Ruby¡¯s tone. ¡°What¡¯s the use of saying that now? What matters most is finding a way to meet with Brenna. We need to apologize to her and ask for her help. After all, we raised her for years. Look at her now. Her sess is all thanks to us.¡±


    Isabe let out a scornfulugh. ¡°She cut ties with usst time without a second thought. Do you really think she will agree to help us? She won¡¯t spare us a nce even if we kneel before her. Stop daydreaming about getting her help and focus on something useful.


    Help me figure out how to win over Denis.¡±


    The phone¡¯s ring interrupted Isabe just as she was poised to criticize the Barrett family. Rosie was on the line.


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 Chapter 346

    ?Chapter 346:


    ¡°Miss Harper, how may I assist you today?¡± Isabe¡¯s voice softened into a deferential tone when she answered the call.


    Isabe had noticed the flood of critical online posts about Rosie and felt a twinge of anxiety.


    Rosie didn¡¯t waste any time berating Isabe as soon as the call went through.


    Her voice was so loud that every member of the Barrett family could hear her from the phone.


    ¡°Why on earth would you act so foolishly? You assured me that the child was Brenna¡¯s without double-checking? Now, there¡¯s a storm of negative news about me because of your blunder!¡±


    Despite hearing the harsh scolding, Isabe experienced no remorse. In her view, Rosie was foolish for not using the scandalous revtion to undermine Brenna and for allowing Brenna to gain the upper hand¡ªsuch a squandered opportunity.


    While she harbored these thoughts, Isabe kept them to herself, aware that Rosie still had the powerful Harper family behind her. The Harpers could easily crush her family.


    Unaware of the fact that Rosie had already been kicked out of the Harper family, Isabe still considered Rosie as that cherished member of the Harper family.


    She attempted to soothe Rosie, albeit timidly. ¡°Please, Miss Harper, try to calm down¡­¡±


    With no one else to target her frustration, Rosie was irate. She suddenly thought of a devious idea, knowing Isabe¡¯s connections to Brenna. ¡°I¡¯m at the hospital. Come over now; we need to talk.¡±


    Hermand was cold. ¡°Get here quickly unless you want the Barrett family to face ruin. I never should have trusted such a fool like you. If not for your careless mistake about the child, would I be facing this predicament now? Get over here. You need to kneel in front of me and apologize.¡±


    Expressions among the Barrett family members shifted as they heard Rosie¡¯s harsh words, signaling her tant disregard for them.


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    Though her words were harsh, Alec and Mack stayed silent.


    Isabe struggled to maintain herposure, her voice trembling with restrained fury. ¡°Miss Harper, that¡¯s unfair. My intentions were good; I never meant to create this mess.¡±


    Given the Harper family¡¯s potential help to the Barrett family and Rosie being the Barrett family¡¯s sole ally, Isabe grudgingly endured the degradation.


    With fists clenched and a face marred by bitterness, she cursed Rosie in her heart.


    Rosie said, ¡°Your intentions were good? I don¡¯t believe you. It feels like you set this up to embarrass me. Listen, get over here now. I need you to do something for me. Do you still care about the Barrett Group¡¯s car dealings or not?¡±


    Alec, overhearing the exchange, urged Isabe, ¡°Hurry over there! She might have orders for us.¡±


    Isabe shot him a resentful look, feeling exploited by her own father for financial gain.


    Mack leaned in and murmured, ¡°You have to go. You¡¯re the only hope for our family now. We can only depend on you for orders. And we can¡¯t risk upsetting Miss Harper. Apologize to her sincerely. Just ensure she¡¯s appeased.¡±


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 Chapter 347

    ?Chapter 347:


    The mounting pressures only intensified Isabe¡¯s anger, pushing her further toward a breaking point.


    Though angry, she still agreed to Rosie¡¯s demands.


    Once the call ended, Alec instructed Isabe, ¡°When you go there, whatever Miss Harper says, just listen. Let her get it all out. Don¡¯t talk back. And don¡¯t forget to ask about the orders she promised us at the banquetst time. She promised to help us, yet we¡¯ve seen nothing from her. Make sure she doesn¡¯t go back on her word.¡±


    Isabe responded with a huff, visibly irritated by her father¡¯s words, ¡°Why must I always endure this? It¡¯s not my fault she faced public ridicule; that was her own doing.¡±


    Turning to face her family, she said sharply, ¡°What do you mean we¡¯ve seen nothing from her? Didn¡¯t she connect us with several sales representatives? It¡¯s not her fault you couldn¡¯t seal any deals. Don¡¯t say she hasn¡¯t given us any help.¡±


    With a final piercing nce at her family, Isabe grabbed her belongings and stormed out.


    Alec¡¯s expression darkened with frustration as he turned to Ruby, saying, ¡°Look at her, challenging me like that. Does she forget who is providing for her now? She¡¯s as ungrateful as Brenna, both of them failing to show any gratitude. She is about to marry Denis now and shows no respect for us anymore. We must not raise another¡­¡±


    Ungrateful child.¡±


    Ruby, feeling a mix of despair and resignation, suggested a different approach to Alec.


    ¡°We should seek out Brenna and offer a heartfelt apology. I think she holds more sway within the Harper family than Rosie. With her help, our family might return to its former glory.¡±


    Alec responded with visible irritation, ¡°If you think that will work, go ahead and do it yourself. I simply can¡¯t bring myself to do it.¡±


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    Just then, Mack said, ¡°Mom, you should be the one to handle this. Dad and I, being men, find it difficult to express certain sentiments. It seems more fitting for you to do this.¡±


    He then handed Ruby her phone, saying, ¡°Here, Mom, call Brenna right away and set up a meeting with her.¡±


    Isabe made her way to the hospital where Rosie was recovering. Upon opening the ward¡¯s door, she was greeted by a sharp scent of disinfectant.


    As Isabe entered, she was abruptly soaked by a deluge of slop from above,pletely drenching her.


    Her hair and clothes clung to bits of leftover food, emitting a terrible smell. There she stood, her eyes clenched shut, too humiliated to utter a sound.


    Rosie sat on the hospital bed and burst into loud, uncontrobleughter. For the first time in ages, a weight had lifted off her chest. She was no longer the only one fate had it out for. ¡°This is so funny¡­¡± All the rage and bitterness she had bottled up finally released. The storm inside her had quieted, and in its ce came a strange sense of relief, even a hint of triumph.


    She turned a sharp gaze on Isabe, convinced Isabe hadn¡¯t paid nearly enough. She had not only been poured on with slop but also subjected to endless online harassment. Isabe hadn¡¯t faced any online harassment at all. A cold, calcting look crossed Rosie¡¯s face as she started to devise a way to humiliate Isabe more.


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 Chapter 348

    ?Chapter 348:


    Rachael, still holding the empty slop bucket, said coldly to Isabe, ¡°This is the price you should pay for deceiving Miss Harper. Next time, it won¡¯t be just a bucket of slop!¡±


    She then gestured for the cleaners who had been waiting outside the door.


    Rotten leftovers and a sour stink clung to the floor. Isabe could be a mess, but this was Rosie¡¯s hospital room, and Rachael wasn¡¯t about to let it stay filthy.


    The cleaning crew set to work, efficiently tidying up the floor and refreshing the air with sprays of disinfectant and air freshener. Only Isabe remained covered in filth, left there to bear the humiliation.


    Isabe slowly opened her eyes, her anger burning in her chest. As she watched Rosieugh in delight, all she could think about was how badly she wanted to strangle her now.


    Rachael¡¯s voice sliced through the tension, saying, ¡°Your anger is pointless. You¡¯ve only yourself to me for this. You provided Miss Harper with false information.¡±


    Isabe, drenched from head to toe, hunched her shoulders and didn¡¯t dare move. Vegetable leaves clung to her hair, making her look like aplete mess. She fumbled for tissues in her bag and wiped her face, gathering the courage to speak.


    ¡°Why did you do this to me, Miss Harper?¡± She was stubborn, seeking an exnation from Rosie, and in her innocence, she even hoped for an apology from Rosie.


    ¡°Kneel!¡± Rachael shouted, delivering a sharp kick to the back of Isabe¡¯s knees.


    Isabe hit the floor with a heavy thud, pain radiating through her knees as she red at Rachael.


    Rachael, expecting the reaction, kicked her once more. ¡°How dare you re at me after you¡¯ve caused Miss Harper so much trouble?¡±


    Isabe¡¯s body wobbled because of the kick.


    She said, ¡°I am not at fault here. Isn¡¯t this Miss Harper¡¯s own mistake? I provided her with such valuable information, yet she still failed in targeting Brenna. How is that my fault?¡±


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    ¡°Are you talking back?¡± Rachael swung the slop bucket at Isabe.


    Isabe dodged and quickly said, ¡°I¡¯m sorry. Please don¡¯t hit me!¡±


    Rosie made no move to stop Rachael. Instead, she crossed her arms and watched the scene unfold before her. She believed Isabe hadn¡¯t paid enough.


    Rachael continued to hit Isabe several times before finally stopping.


    The mocking and harsh look on Rosie¡¯s face remained. She observed Isabe¡¯s misery, which made her feel a bit better.


    ¡°Let¡¯s see if you dare provide me with false information again,¡± she said.


    Isabe, catching the twisted look on Rosie¡¯s face, understood that Rosie was far from satisfied. But she didn¡¯t want to apologize to Rosie or ept me for the matter.


    However, reflecting on her long rtionship with Denis and his avoidance of marriage discussions, Isabe knew she could not afford to offend Rosie. If she offended Rosie and Denis still refused to marry her, she would be left with no help.


    Yet, it was obvious that Rosie was only trying to humiliate her now.


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 Chapter 349

    ?Chapter 349:


    She wasn¡¯t willing to just endure this.


    Isabe said, ¡°I truly didn¡¯t mean for it to happen, Miss Harper. I didn¡¯t foresee this oue. This is neither my fault nor yours. If we must me someone, it should be Brenna. She is so skilled that she turned the tables on us.¡±


    Rosie snorted, clearly unsatisfied with Isabe¡¯s exnation, seeing it as nothing more than shifting me.


    She said, ¡°Stop talking nonsense. I don¡¯t want to see you anymore. Leave now.¡±


    Isabe got to her feet and cautiously asked the question she had long held back, hoping Rosie might show somepassion after humiliating her.


    ¡°Miss Harper, you promised to bring orders to the Barrett Group. Thepany is struggling to meet payroll. Without new orders, it might go bankrupt.¡±


    Rosie sneered, ¡°Didn¡¯t I introduce business to you? You are the one who failed to seal any deals. Now, you want my help again? Leave!¡±


    She was determined to keep the Barrett family unaware that she had been ousted from the Harper family and no longer had any ties to Harper Group¡¯s automotive manufacturing. She could no longer get the Barrett Group more orders.


    Rachael forcefully grabbed Isabe, twisting her arm. ¡°Leave now!¡±


    Isabe left the hospital room and made her way down the corridor, enduring the weird nces from onlookers. Disgust greeted her as she stepped into the elevator.


    ¡°You stink! Don¡¯te inside!¡±


    ¡°You are disgusting! Use the stairs!¡±


    Noses were covered by everyone in the elevator, their expressions filled with revulsion.


    Tears streamed down Isabe¡¯s face as she fled, seething with anger at Rosie. She struggled to understand why Rosie had resorted to throwing food waste at her instead of resolving their issues through conversation. Though she had managed to remove most of the leftovers on her body, the smell clung to her clothes, which now appeared dirty and oddly colored, causing people to turn away in disgust wherever she went. Isabe sobbed uncontrobly as she got into her car, leaning on the steering wheel, crying alone for a long time.


    Determined to avoid further embarrassment, she drove directly to a hotel, where she booked a room to take a shower.


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    Confronted with her own reflection in the mirror, Isabe feltpletely humiliated. She pondered why she had allowed Rosie to humiliate her like this. How could Rosie do this to her? Was it merely because the Barrett family had less wealth than the Harper family?


    If enduring that humiliation meant the Barrett family would gain something from it, she might have convinced herself it was worth the shame. But Rosie hadn¡¯t given her anything.


    She made a silent vow¡ªshe would make Rosie pay for this.


    By the time she had finished cleaning herself and crying in the hotel room, her eyes were puffy and sore. But the weight pressing on her chest had eased.


    Haunted by Rosie¡¯s insults, she began to browse online forums, focusing on Rosie. Previously, she had only nced at the main posts, ignoring the responses. Now, reading them thoroughly, she learned that Rosie had been ousted from the Harper family long ago. Since Rosie had been kicked out of the Harper family, she was no longer powerful.


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 Chapter 350

    ?Chapter 350:


    It didn¡¯t take long for Isabe to settle on a decision¡ªshe was going to get back at Rosie.


    She continued to browse the forums, stumbling upon a post about Rosie being drenched in food waste.


    Suddenly, it all made sense why Rosie had poured food waste on her.


    Isabe now felt she was being yed.


    On Monday, atop the Financial Building¡¯s helipad, Brenna waited for a helicopter from the Weapons Research Institute.


    Slinging her beige backpack over one shoulder, she nced up and spotted the military helicopter approaching.


    Just then, her phone began to ring. She nced at the caller ID and immediately declined the call. It was the eleventh time Ruby had called.


    She had lost all interest in further interactions with the Barrett family.


    The helicopter touched down smoothly on the helipad, its des whirling rapidly, stirring up a strong wind and causing a loud noise. Inside, a pilot dressed in a green flight suit and a soldier, also d in green and armed with an AK, greeted Brenna with a polite smile.


    ¡°Miss Harper, please get in and fasten your seatbelt,¡± the soldier said with a grin. ¡°Braeden mentioned that you designed this helicopter. Today, you¡¯ll get to take the helicopter you designed.¡±


    Brenna looked at the helicopter, intimately familiar with every aspect of it. The trust the military ced in her had initially stunned her when she received the design order.


    Uponpleting the design, she had worried it wouldn¡¯t pass the military¡¯s evaluation.


    Yet, her design had excelled, surpassing all other models in efficiency and stability. Within two years, it had been adopted by the military.


    She had been just twenty years old at that time.


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    A slight, satisfied smile crossed Brenna¡¯s face.


    By nine in the morning, Brenna arrived at the entrance of the Weapons Research Institute.


    The area buzzed with men in military uniforms, all wearing serious faces and engrossed in their duties.


    Brenna¡¯s presence as a striking young woman caught everyone¡¯s eye. Some young soldiers even blushed as they passed by her.


    ¡°Hey, Brenna!¡± Braeden, dressed in a crisp blue military uniform, approached her. Despite being in his forties, he had sharp eyes that sparkled with vitality.


    Brenna greeted him with a handshake. ¡°It¡¯s really been a while,¡± she said.


    As they entered the research institute, Braeden looked at Brenna expectantly. ¡°Have you considered my proposal? If you join us, I could secure you a captain¡¯s rank. We urgently need top-tier talent like you, and our policies for someone like you are very favorable.¡±


    Brenna shook her head, saying, ¡°I don¡¯t feel ready to join the military, but I¡¯m grateful for your offer.¡±


    She was concerned that her past actions might emerge and not be well received by the military.


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 Chapter 351

    ?Chapter 351:


    Braedenughed, showing understanding of her hesitations. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. If we want you on our team, we won¡¯t let your past be an obstacle. We might even help clear it up for you.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s eyes brightened at the thought. If she had the military¡¯s support, her enemies would likely hesitate before harming her.


    Yet, this support would also mean less freedom for her. ¡°I¡¯ll consider it,¡± Brenna answered.


    Braeden brought Brenna into a spacious office that gave off a strong military vibe. The furniture was arranged with uniform precision. Not a single item looked out of ce.


    Apanying them was an administrative officer in uniform. She offered Brenna a faint smile, her eyes bright with admiration. Brenna caught on quickly. She reached into her bag and handed over a USB drive she had prepared earlier. ¡°There¡¯s only one folder on it. It contains all the design concepts tied to this project.¡±


    ¡°Print 32 copies and take them to the conference room,¡± Braeden instructed.


    He then motioned toward a chair across from his desk and said to Brenna, ¡°Please, have a seat. Would you like water, coffee, or c?¡±


    Brenna replied with a poised smile, ¡°Coffee will be fine.¡±


    The entire office was done up in military green. The desk, the shelves, and even the chairs followed the same color scheme. The leather sofa matched, too.


    Naturally, the items on the table carried the same tone, though each one varied slightly in shade. Still, they were arranged with purpose, making the space seem aesthetically pleasing.


    After taking it all in, Brenna slowly unzipped her backpack. She pulled out herptop and opened the design sketches for Braeden to see. Braeden poured a ss of coffee and handed it to Brenna before turning his attention to the design sketches.


    A few minutester, the female administrative officer returned and knocked once before stepping inside. ¡°Mr. Foster, the documents have been delivered. Everyone¡¯s in the conference room now.¡±


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    Braeden nodded and then said to Brenna, ¡°Let¡¯s head to the meeting and go over your design proposal.¡±


    The conference room was sleek and built with a militarized edge. Thirty young men filled the space, all unfamiliar to Brenna. Each one carried himself with confidence.


    As Brenna stepped inside, a warm round of apuse greeted her. She met everyone¡¯s eyes with a steady smile. But when her eyesnded on the sixth face on the left, she froze.


    She almost blurted out Ethan¡¯s name.


    The resemnce was uncanny. From his build to the way he carried himself, the man looked almost exactly like Ethan. Brenna was almost convinced that the man was Ethan.


    Wearing the military uniform, the man looked refined. There was warmth in his expression and depth in his eyes that pulled her in. Brenna was unable to look away. Her stare lingered long enough for others in the room to notice.


    Braeden picked up on it, too. He turned toward the man and said, ¡°Kenny Mitchell, introduce yourself.¡±


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 Chapter 352

    ?Chapter 352:


    The moment Brenna heard the name, something clicked. The officer who looked just like Ethan shared hisst name.


    But she couldn¡¯t recall Ethan ever mentioning a brother. Wasn¡¯t he an only child?


    Then again, she wasn¡¯t entirely sure. She had never really asked Ethan about siblings.


    Kenny didn¡¯t seem to mind Brenna¡¯s staring. In fact, he looked rather pleased by it. Then, he formally introduced himself, saying, ¡°My name¡¯s Kenny Mitchell, captain of the second squadron of the flight team.¡±


    The words snapped Brenna back to the present. Realizing she had lost herposure for a moment, she smiled awkwardly and exined, ¡°Sorry. He looks just like a friend of mine. I was in a daze for a moment.¡±


    Braeden chuckled and motioned toward the first seat on the right. ¡°No need to apologize. Kenny does have a twin. You probably mistook him for his brother.¡±


    The Mitchell family had deep roots in the military. Brenna had treated Vincent before and met a few of the Mitchell elders, but they had all been in civilian clothes at the time. She hadn¡¯t thought to ask about their ranks or roles.


    Looking at Kenny now, she figured he must be Ethan¡¯s brother. She nodded slightly and asked Kenny, ¡°Have you been stationed here for a long time?¡±


    ¡°Yes. I haven¡¯t left here for six months,¡± Kenny answered.


    Brenna nodded. Now, she understood that the man was not Ethan but his brother.


    She made a mental note to ask Ethan about thister.


    The meeting stretched on for six hours.


    By the time Brenna stepped out of the conference room, it was already past five in the afternoon.


    Braeden arranged for a helicopter to take Brenna back. When she returned to the studio, Tommy met her at the door with a worried look. He pointed toward her office. ¡°Your foster mother¡¯s here. She has been making a scene, saying she¡¯s your mom. We told her you weren¡¯t here, but she refused to leave. She said she¡¯d wait for you no matter how long it took. She has been here since this morning and still won¡¯t leave.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s mood soured. Ruby was like a shadow she couldn¡¯t shake.


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    She walked into her office and found Ruby seated in her chair, legs crossed and sipping coffee. She was casually flipping through the papers on the desk.


    ¡°Who said you could touch my documents?¡± Brenna asked with a cold expression.


    Ruby shot up at once. The smugness on her face faded, reced by a forced smile. She rushed over to Brenna¡¯s side and said, ¡°Brenna, where have you been? You¡¯ve been out all day, and no one was with you. What if something happened to you?¡±


    Brenna casually ced her backpack on her desk and sat down, seeming indifferent.


    Ruby, clearly upset, approached her with a stern expression. ¡°Why are you ignoring me? Remember, I am your mother. I raised you, and your current sess is because of my sacrifices. You should show some gratitude to me.¡±


    Brenna remained silent. She smoothly took out herptop, opened it, and began to review the meeting notes from the Weapons Research Institute. The notes included pilot and engineer feedback, suggestions for improvement, and their experiences with various fighter jets. Her design drafts required significant revisions, including major changes to the design concepts.


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    She stared at the screen, deeply absorbed in contemting her revisions.


    Ruby stood next to her, looking at the screen, but only saw technical jargon and diagrams she did notprehend.


    Still, she was aware that Brenna had many orders and that her studio, which now employed thirty designers, was bustling and financially sessful.


    Ruby, feeling she deserved attention as Brenna¡¯s mother, was unable to bring herself to tter Brenna.


    She waited for Brenna to say something to her, but Brenna continued her work, ignoring herpletely.


    Feeling frustrated, Ruby exhaled sharply in irritation and sat down opposite Brenna.


    By five-thirty, all the designers had left the studio for the day, but Brenna was still immersed in her work.


    Tommy entered the room, knocking on the door. ¡°How is work today?¡± He paid no mind to Ruby and began discussing the day¡¯s meeting directly with Brenna.


    Brenna looked up from her work. ¡°I¡¯vepiled the feedback and forwarded it to your email. Review it when you can. Once you¡¯ve reviewed it and suggested corrections, I¡¯ll meet with Braeden again.¡±


    Tommy nodded, cing a cup of water on her desk. ¡°You¡¯ve been at it all day. You should go home and rest now.¡±


    Ruby observed their interaction, feeling overlooked.


    ¡°Brenna! Why are you ignoring me? I¡¯ve been here all day,¡± Ruby said, her voice carrying a tone of reproach.


    Brenna nced at her briefly. ¡°If you need to discuss something, just say it. I am busy and don¡¯t have time for chitchat.¡±


    Her cold attitude made Ruby angry.


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    Back when Brenna had been living with the Barrett family, she had maintained a simr cold attitude. Ruby had assumed it was due to Brenna being upset about working for the Barrett family while receiving poor treatment.


    At that time, Ruby hadn¡¯t been concerned by Brenna¡¯s cold demeanor, interpreting it as her form of quiet resistance.


    But now, Ruby realized the truth. That cold demeanor wasn¡¯t about dissatisfaction; it was a way of showing disdain. Brenna had been looking down on her all this time.


    This realization made Ruby furious. ¡°Is this the way you speak to your mother? You should show me some respect!¡±


    Brenna met her gaze sharply. ¡°What have you done that deserves my respect? Should I respect the way you hit and scolded me as a child, neglected to feed me, or used me for your own gain as I got older?¡±


    Her dismissive look, devoid of any intent for revenge, deeply wounded Ruby.


    ¡°You!¡± Ruby struggled to find words to defend her past harsh actions toward Brenna.


    ¡°Brenna¡­¡± Ruby¡¯s tone eventually softened. She realized what she needed to do to get help from Brenna. ¡°The harsh way I treated you was for your benefit. Would you be where you are today without that discipline?¡±


    Brenna let out a quietugh and said, ¡°You really have no shame saying something like that, do you?¡±


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    Ruby was boiling with anger yet unable to vent her frustrations. After all, she needed help from Brenna, and Brenna was a member of the powerful Harper family now.


    She said softly, ¡°Brenna, believe me, I did everything for your benefit. Isn¡¯t your sess partly because of the discipline I instilled in you? You can now give a lecture to thousands of Harper Group¡¯s employees, all highly skilled engineers. How could you have achieved so much if I hadn¡¯t pushed you when you were living with my family?¡±


    She attempted a smile, but Brenna¡¯s demeanor stayed cold.


    Realizing that Brenna wouldn¡¯t ask about her reasons foring, Ruby finally said, ¡°I came here today to ask for your help.¡±


    Brenna remained silent, merely giving her a quick nce before turning her attention back to her meeting notes.


    Ruby continued, ¡°You¡¯ve always brought prosperity wherever you went. While you were with the Barrett family, the Barrett Group¡¯s automotive division flourished, sessfullyunching its IPO and handling more orders than we could manage. Since you left, many orders have been canceled, and we¡¯re struggling to even pay the employees¡¯ sries. Could you talk to your father about directing some orders from Harper Group our way? I¡¯ve dedicated twenty years to raising you. You should be grateful to me and help me¡­¡±


    ¡°I understand you resent us, but you can¡¯t let the Barrett Group copse. How about this: have your father give us a few orders, just billions of dors¡¯ worth will do. Help the Barrett Group through this tough time and let it rise again as a way to repay us for all we¡¯ve done for you.¡±


    Ruby continued to speak, her eyes locked on Brenna. She knew from past interactions that Brenna was listening to her.


    After a pause, she added, ¡°We raised you, and that¡¯s the truth, whether you acknowledge it or not. You can¡¯t abandon the Barrett family and let the Barrett Group fall apart like this. Wouldn¡¯t you be worried about being seen as heartless? People will call you cruel for this, saying you¡ª¡±


    Brenna, visibly annoyed, interjected, ¡°Are you finished? Yes, you raised me, but I¡¯ve settled that debt long ago. Haven¡¯t I already contributed enough designs for the Barrett Group? I helped it expand from a small factory to the Barrett Group it is today, even getting it listed. I don¡¯t owe you anything. You should leave now.¡±


    Stay tuned for more g??lno¦Íe??s.c?m


    Tommy promptly stepped forward, took hold of Ruby¡¯s arm, and began pulling her out of the room.


    Ruby was seething. ¡°What you said isn¡¯t right! You haven¡¯t repaid us enough. You need to stop the Harper Group from bringing down the Barrett Group and give us more orders. Only then will you have fully repaid me for raising you. Otherwise, I won¡¯t let this go.¡±


    ¡°Leave now!¡± Brenna said firmly. ¡°If you don¡¯t go, I¡¯ll ensure the Barrett Group goes bankrupt tomorrow!¡±


    Ruby, infuriated, eximed, ¡°You wouldn¡¯t dare! If you do that, I won¡¯t let you off easily!¡±


    Tommy forcefully led her out.


    Brenna let out a deep sigh. ¡°What a nuisance.¡±


    She puzzled over how Ruby had managed to locate her studio. Tommy soon returned to Brenna¡¯s office. ¡°The Barrett family used you for years, and they¡¯re still not satisfied. Now that you¡¯ve left that hellhole, she has the nerve toe see you and ask you to help them? She is shameless.¡±


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    Brenna said, ¡°She is indeed shameless. Next time she shows up, don¡¯t bother being polite to her. If she starts on about being my mother or raising me, just ignore her and drive her away.¡±


    Tommy, still upset about the earlier incident, couldn¡¯t hold back his irritation.


    He said, ¡°She came here this morning, unting her role as your adoptive mother to push us around, even asking when our studio was founded. When she found out it was five years ago, she imed the studio should belong to the Barrett family since you were still underage at that time. She argued that legally, all your assets from before you were an adult would be the Barrett family¡¯s. I argued with her, and her audacity was astounding. She even asked about our yearly ie and your personal savings.¡±


    Brennaughed derisively. ¡°Savings? What savings? Any savings I might have had already went to the Barrett family. She knows this very well but pretends otherwise. If I don¡¯t set her straight, she¡¯ll think I am easy to push around.¡±


    Tommy¡¯s expression grew stern. ¡°People like her don¡¯t deserve any respect. To be honest, I think you¡¯ve been too lenient with the Barrett Group.¡±


    Brenna nodded and called Thiago. ¡°I don¡¯t want the Barrett Group to be around any longer.¡±


    On the other end of the line, Thiago¡¯s voice was calm. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. In a week, the Barrett Group will be gone from Shirie.¡±


    After a pause, he added, ¡°By the way, you¡¯ve been invited to the International Economic Forum in Cliffdell. The event is in three months. Will you attend?¡±


    A smile broke across Brenna¡¯s face. ¡°Absolutely. I missed outst time, and this is a wonderful chance; I won¡¯t miss it.¡±


    After ending the call, Brenna gathered her belongings and left the office.


    She had just settled into her car in the parking garage when her phone vibrated with a message from Ellie.


    ¡°Come save me! Jayceon is driving me insane.¡± A location pin followed. Brenna sent a quick response.


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    ¡°On my way.¡±


    She drove out of the garage, elerating quickly. It wasn¡¯t long before she arrived at a high-end restaurant.


    Ellie, dressed elegantly, was waiting for her at the entrance, looking frustrated.


    Brenna handed her keys to the valet and approached Ellie.


    ¡°Why are you dressed like this? Are you nning to marry Jayceon now?¡± she teased, linking arms with Ellie as they entered the restaurant.


    Ellie was furious. ¡°Absolutely not! The Russell family is nothing but trouble, and I won¡¯t be part of it. You wouldn¡¯t believe how furious I am. Can you imagine?


    ¡°I¡¯ve ended up with a son who sides with outsiders! Jayceon took Patrick out today, and he bought some clothes for me. I don¡¯t know what he told Patrick, but when they got back, Patrick insisted I wear this and dragged me here to dinner.¡±


    Brenna raised an eyebrow. ¡°And you actually went along with it?¡± Her incredulous look said it all. She was well aware that Ellie was not one to be easily swayed, not even by her own son. Yet, she had relented this time.


    Brenna looked at Ellie in shock, eager to understand what had led her to do this.


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    Ellie seethed with anger, saying, ¡°Jayceon threatened to inform the Russell family of my son¡¯s existence if I didn¡¯t do it. Do you realize what kind of people the Russell family members are? They are all ruthless. I¡¯m not about to let my son get caught up with them.¡±


    Brenna was momentarily at a loss for words, her heart going out to her best friend. After a while, she sighed softly. ¡°This isplicated. Patrick seems determined to y matchmaker. Kids don¡¯t always understand adult emotions. Maybe it¡¯s time to be upfront with Patrick about what you want, so he doesn¡¯t waste his efforts.¡±


    Ellie gave a resigned shrug. ¡°I can never quite figure out what¡¯s going through that boy¡¯s mind. You¡¯d think with his intelligence, he¡¯d understand rtionships, but he doesn¡¯t. Yet, when ites to coding and machinery, he¡¯s incredibly sharp. It¡¯s confusing whether to call him smart or not.¡±


    She shook her head and added, ¡°I¡¯ve exined to Patrick that I no longer love his father, but Patrick keeps insisting that dads should love moms and vice versa. He craves aplete family so much that whenever I see that hopeful look in his eyes, I find myself unable to shatter his dreams by telling him Jayceon and I are impossible to be together.¡±


    Brenna didn¡¯t know how tofort Ellie; handling emotional matters wasn¡¯t her strength. ¡°We¡¯ll figure it out as we go,¡± she eventually said. She did, however, understand Ellie¡¯s situation. Ellie had no intention of rekindling her rtionship with Jayceon; the gap between them was just too wide.


    Ellie had once shed with Jayceon¡¯s parents, and it hadn¡¯t ended well. Jayceon¡¯s parents held her in contempt, believing she wasn¡¯t worthy of marrying Jayceon. In turn, Ellie couldn¡¯t stand Jayceon¡¯s many girlfriends or his controlling parents.


    Both sides held disdain for each other.


    Had it not been for Patrick¡¯s insistent curiosity, Ellie would have kept his father¡¯s identity a secret and never allowed him to meet Jayceon.


    Feeling frustrated, Ellie soon reached the restaurant. It was a quaint ce with both indoor and outdoor seating. Jayceon and Patrick were sitting at a window, both smiling broadly. Across from them, a woman in a red dress, elegant and charming,ughed and conversed with them.


    ¡°Look at that; I leave for just a moment, and he¡¯s already flirting with another woman. Jayceon can¡¯t bear to be alone. How did I ever fall for such a jerk?¡± Ellie said.


    Explore g¦Á?¦Ç¦Òv???s for fresh content


    Brenna¡¯s face darkened when she saw Jayceon, Patrick, and the woman in red, all chatting andughing together. Patrick didn¡¯t seem bothered by the woman; in fact, he appeared to enjoy herpany, making them look like a happy family of three.


    ¡°I know that woman,¡± Brenna said, her expression turning cold. ¡°She was Jayceon¡¯s plus one at my wee back party. They must have slept together long ago.¡±


    Brenna didn¡¯t want to distress her friend further, but she was also determined not to let Ellie be deceived by these two.


    Ellie let out a coldugh, her expression dripping with sarcasm. ¡°Let¡¯s go see what this shameless couple has to say.¡±


    Brenna watched Ellie closely and realized she wasn¡¯t actually angry but seemed rather amused by the situation.


    This reassured Brenna.


    Together, they approached Jayceon¡¯s table and sat down.


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    When Jayceon saw them, his face was filled with unease as he nced nervously at the woman, Fay Warren, as if caught cheating.


    Fay recognized Brenna instantly and greeted her with enthusiasm,pletely overlooking Ellie.


    Patrick¡¯s excitement was evident; his eyes locked on the box Brenna was holding. He jumped up and eximed, ¡°Brenna!¡±


    Brenna responded with a nod and affectionately pinched his cheek.


    Patrick embraced Brenna tightly, demonstrating their close bond.


    Feeling overlooked, Fay was displeased and even embarrassed. She recalled how Brenna had also seemed so distant at her wee back party, which had irritated her.


    However, knowing she needed to maintain good rtions with the Harper family and observing Brenna and Jayceon¡¯s apparent connection, Fay opted to remain friendly.


    Thus, Fay addressed Brenna with a touch of ttery, saying, ¡°Miss Harper, what a surprise! Are you joining Jayceon for lunch? Where¡¯s Mr. Mitchell?¡±


    Brenna still chose to ignore Fay.


    Who did Fay think she was, daring to upset Ellie? She was just another woman Jayceon would soon lose interest in.


    Handing the box to Patrick, Brenna patted his head and said, ¡°This model is yours now. Enjoy ying with it.¡±


    Ellie¡¯s lips curved into a smile, feeling a rush of satisfaction as she observed Jayceon. She wasn¡¯t sure of the specifics of Fay and Jayceon¡¯s rtionship, but Jayceon¡¯s unease was evident.


    Jayceon avoided Ellie¡¯s gaze, silently hoping Fay would depart soon and not jeopardize his recent efforts.


    Feeling slighted, Fay turned to Brenna and asked, ¡°Miss Harper, why are you ignoring me?¡±


    galno¦Í?ls is your update source


    Brenna acted as though she had only just noticed her. ¡°Were you speaking to me? I¡¯m sorry; I don¡¯t think we¡¯ve met before. Could you introduce yourself?¡±


    Feeling even more humiliated, Fay introduced herself, saying, ¡°I¡¯m Fay Warren, Jayceon¡¯s girlfriend.¡±


    Jayceon¡¯s expression shifted abruptly, and he quickly checked Ellie¡¯s reaction. Clearly, she was displeased.


    He immediately said to Fay, ¡°What nonsense are you talking about?¡±


    Fay sat close beside Jayceon, almost clinging to him.


    She gave him a yful pout. ¡°Jayceon, how am I talking nonsense?¡±


    Ellie, observing Fay¡¯s clingy behavior, rolled her eyes.


    When Patrick heard Fay¡¯s words, his face instantly twisted with frustration. Despite his age, he could tell she was trying to steal his dad from his mom. With fiery anger, he said to Fay, ¡°He¡¯s my dad, and that¡¯s my mom. We¡¯re the real family here. You are a homewrecker! Just leave!¡±


    Fay initially believed Jayceon was ying with someone else¡¯s child, never guessing that the charming boy was his son. In shock, she said to Jayceon, ¡°Jayceon, this child¡­¡±


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    Jayceon¡¯s expression turned grim as he pushed the woman who was leaning on him away. ¡°He¡¯s my son.¡±


    ¡°But aren¡¯t you still unmarried? How do you have a child? Are you certain he¡¯s really yours? Jayceon, don¡¯t let yourself be deceived by someone else,¡± Fay said.


    She had been close to Jayceon for a while and understood his nature well; he was not the type to be easily manipted or to ept a child as his own without valid reasons.


    Her emotions overwhelmed her, tears gathering in her eyes as she looked at Jayceon with a sorrowful expression.


    Ellie snorted with disdain. She knew Jayceon¡¯s reputation with women well and doubted he would ever change.


    Jayceon kept his face stern. ¡°Is it so unheard of to have a son without being married?¡±


    Fay regained herposure. ¡°So you are really not married?¡± She evenughed softly to herself, shooting a confident look at Ellie. She acknowledged that Ellie was attractive, exactly Jayceon¡¯s type. Yet, despite Ellie having had his child, he had not married her. What did that suggest?


    It was clear to her that Jayceon valued the child but had no ns to marry Ellie.


    This kind of scenario was not umon among the wealthy.


    ¡°I need to go to the bathroom,¡± Patrick said, setting down the car model and looking up at Ellie.


    Jayceon rose immediately, gently taking his son¡¯s hand. ¡°I¡¯ll go with you. Ellie, why don¡¯t you order for us? Pick whatever you like.¡± Then, Jayceon and Patrick walked off together.


    Fay¡¯s attitude shifted abruptly, and she looked at Ellie with a venomous stare. ¡°You¡¯re quite smart, trying to secure your ce by having Jayceon¡¯s child. But what good has it done? Years have gone by, and your son is already this old, yet Jayceon still hasn¡¯t made you his wife.¡±


    Her face twisted into a sneer. She observed Ellie¡¯s outfit. Although it was from a prestigiousbel, it only cost about twenty thousand dors.


    ?????????????? ????????????: ?????????¦Í???????????????


    Considering Jayceon¡¯s usual style, if he really cared for a woman, he would be buying her high-end clothes, not this cheap stuff.


    Fay said, ¡°Don¡¯t fool yourself into thinking that dressing like a temptress will make Jayceon take a second nce at you. He might ept the child, but marrying you is out of the question. Just give up.¡±


    Ellie couldn¡¯t bring herself to respond. Instead, she looked at Fay, whose outfit was wless and costly,plemented by a ne and rings that were clearly expensive.


    Fay caught Ellie¡¯s evaluative eye and smirked arrogantly. ¡°Jayceon bought all these clothes and jewelry for me.¡±


    She swiftly pulled her phone from her purse, found a particr photo, and unted it in front of Ellie. ¡°Take a good look at this. Don¡¯t think having his child will tie him down to you.¡±


    Ellie nced at the photo; Jayceon and Fay were intimately in bed, both unclothed, with Jayceon holding Fay, and she was kissing him.


    ¡°Well, good luck with your attempts to win Jayceon over and be his wife,¡± Ellie said, rising abruptly and departing, her steps quick.


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    Brenna approached Fay, quickly snapped a photo with her phone, then grabbed a ss of water from the table and threw it in Fay¡¯s face.


    ¡°Chase after him yourself if you fancy that scumbag. Stop repulsing others. Not everyone views Jayceon as a treasure. To me, he¡¯s nothing but garbage.¡±


    Fay, taken aback by Brenna¡¯s bold move, said, ¡°Can¡¯t we have a civilized discussion? Why resort to such actions? Miss Harper, this is between her and me. What business is it of yours?¡±


    If Brenna hadn¡¯t been a member of the influential Harper family, Fay might have already retaliated.


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯ve developed an interest in Jayceon as well?¡± Fay asked, clearly confused.


    Brenna didn¡¯t respond and walked away, following Ellie.


    Fay, feeling somewhat triumphant despite the situation, snorted and wiped her face with a tissue. ¡°Jayceon belongs to no one but me,¡± she muttered under her breath.


    The revtion that Jayceon had a son didn¡¯t faze her. She was confident that once she and Jayceon were married, she would be able to kick the boy out of the family.


    She pulled out herpact to touch up her makeup.


    Just as she was finishing up, Jayceon came back with Patrick.


    ¡°Where did Ellie go?¡± Jayceon asked Fay sharply.


    Feeling slighted yet unwilling to reveal that she had driven Ellie away by showing the explicit photo, Fay said in a sweet voice, ¡°She¡¯s gone. Said she had ns with friends.¡±


    At that moment, Jayceon¡¯s phone buzzed with a message from Brenna. He checked it and saw the explicit photo of him and Fay.


    His fury erupted immediately, and he struck Fay, shouting, ¡°You bitch!¡±


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    Fay was stunned. ¡°Jayceon! Why would you hit me? I¡¯m also having your child!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s nonsense!¡± Jayceon eximed. He turned to leave, pulling Patrick along with him.


    But Patrick was fixated on his car model and refused to leave.


    ¡°Daddy, my car model!¡± he yelled.


    Jayceon, feeling trapped, said, ¡°Okay, wait here for a bit. I¡¯ll go and bring your mom back.¡±


    Jayceon left in a hurry, filled with anxiety and frustration. He had finally convinced his son to bring Ellie along, only for her to see a side of him he wished she hadn¡¯t. He knew he needed to exin himself thoroughly.


    If he failed to rify things now, reconciling with Ellie would be even more difficult.


    Meanwhile, Patrick was deeply engrossed in ying with the car model, intent on taking it apart and putting it back together. He seemed oblivious to Fay sitting next to him.


    Fay studied Patrick¡¯s features closely; his eyebrows, eyes, and nose bore a striking resemnce to Jayceon. Even at such a young age, he already showed signs of being very handsome. She wondered how many hearts he would break in the future.


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    Her expression grew cold as she pondered the potential threat he posed ¡ª if recognized by the Russell family, he might im part of their fortune. It seemed wise to get rid of him sooner.


    ¡°Have you ever visited your grandparents with your dad?¡± Fay asked, trying to seem casual.


    Patrick remained focused on the car model, not looking up, as if he hadn¡¯t heard her.


    Feeling frustrated by being ignored by a child, Fay nudged Patrick rudely and said in a sharp tone, ¡°Hey, I¡¯m talking to you. Did you hear me?¡±


    Patrick looked up at her, his expression defiant.


    Fay repeated her question.


    Patrick rolled his eyes in annoyance and returned to ying with the car model.


    Fay grew angry and pushed his arm. ¡°You little brat, how dare you ignore me? This is uneptable! Answer me; has your dad taken you to meet your grandparents?¡±


    Startled by her push, Patrick dropped a piece of the car model. Angrily, he replied, ¡°No.¡±


    Fay sneered, ¡°So the Russell family doesn¡¯t recognize you, huh? That makes sense. Why would they acknowledge a child born to that woman? Your mother¡¯s background isn¡¯t impressive, is it? Someone like her joining the Russell family? Impossible.¡±


    Thinking Patrick wouldn¡¯t grasp her harsh words, Fay spoke without holding back.


    She continued, ¡°Listen here, you shouldn¡¯t get too attached to your dad. He¡¯ll never marry your mom. She¡¯s not right for him. Only someone like me fits him. But if you start calling me ¡®mom¡¯ now, I might think about being your stepmom after I marry your dad.¡±


    Patrick picked up a metal piece from the car model, his eyes burning with anger. ¡°You¡¯re lying! My daddy would never marry someone as mean as you!¡±


    With that, he threw the piece at Fay with all his might.


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    Since they were close, the piece struck Fay directly on the forehead, causing it to bleed.


    Fay touched her forehead, noticed the blood, and became furious. She could see Jayceon outside, focused on trying to calm Ellie, which gave her more courage to deal with Patrick. She raised her hand to strike Patrick and shouted, ¡°You little brat, you dare to hit me? I¡¯ll teach you a lesson now!¡±


    Patrick ran away quickly, yelling, ¡°Daddy, the bad woman wants to hit me! Daddy!¡±


    Fay realized the trouble she would be in if Jayceon learned she tried to hit his son. She might lose any chance of marrying him.


    She hurried after Patrick, grabbed him to stop him, and tried to scare him into silence. ¡°Who said I was going to hit you? You¡¯re making things up,¡± she said sharply.


    Patrick was smart. Although he was smaller than Fay, he used his teeth as a weapon. He bit down hard on Fay¡¯s wrist.


    His mother had always told him to stand up to bad people, and she would handle the rest for him.


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    ¡°Ah¡ª¡± Fay screamed in pain. She pulled her hand back quickly. Seizing the opportunity, Patrick escaped again, shouting, ¡°Daddy, the bad woman wants to hit me!¡±


    Ellie noticed her son running towards Jayceon and her and moved to meet him. Jayceon also turned, still frustrated because Ellie was stubborn about not joining him for a meal.


    Patrick pointed to Fay, who was still inside, and said, ¡°The bad woman wants to hit me. She called me a brat and said the Russell family won¡¯t acknowledge me.¡±


    Fay opened the door just in time to hear this.


    She stamped her foot in irritation, never expecting Patrick to repeat her words so precisely.


    She said to Jayceon, ¡°I didn¡¯t! He¡¯s lying.¡±


    She then pointed to her bleeding forehead. ¡°Look, he hit me with the car model.¡±


    She also showed him her arm. ¡°And he bit me.¡±


    Ellie was livid. She knew her son too well¡ªhe wouldn¡¯t strike anyone without a good reason. This woman had to have pushed him to it.


    She walked over and pped Fay several times.


    Immediately, Fay¡¯s face began to swell. Ellie, skilled in fighting like Brenna, did not hold back.


    Ellie eximed, ¡°You are despicable! How dare you bully a child?¡±


    Fay, consumed by anger, wanted to fight back, but when she saw Jayceon ring at her with a terrifying expression she had never seen before, she held back and recoiled in fear.


    ¡°Jayceon, please, listen to me; I didn¡¯t say those things. Children exaggerate. I didn¡¯t hit him; he hit me and bit me. Aren¡¯t you going to do something about it?¡± Fay tried to sound pitiful.


    Patrick pulled on Ellie¡¯s dress and said, ¡°That bad woman wants to be my stepmom.¡±


    Ellie scoffed and addressed Jayceon directly, saying, ¡°So, your woman wants to be my son¡¯s stepmom? You¡¯re really something, seeing different women at once!¡±


    Jayceon responded seriously, ¡°I ended things with her long ago.¡±


    Ellie was skeptical. ¡°I don¡¯t believe you.¡± She took Patrick by the hand, leading him toward Brenna¡¯s car, and asked him, ¡°Do you want other women around your dad? Do you want anyone to be your stepmom?¡±


    Patrick, still very young and unustomed to such adult conflicts, felt let down by Jayceon. The father he had just begun to know was potentially marrying another woman.


    He shook his head sadly. ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s leave,¡± Ellie said, resolved to distance her son from Jayceon.


    Suddenly, Patrick remembered something important. ¡°Mommy, I need to get the car model Brenna gave me.¡±


    Jayceon approached him, taking his hand and crouching down to make a heartfelt promise. ¡°Patrick, I won¡¯t marry anyone else. I¡¯ll marry only your mommy.¡±


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    Patrick was confused and overwhelmed, struggling to grasp theplexities of adult rtionships. He slipped his hand from Jayceon¡¯s grip, ran back to the restaurant to retrieve the car model, and then joined Ellie in Brenna¡¯s car.


    Despite being struck, Fay felt a twisted satisfaction in having pushed Ellie and Patrick away from Jayceon.


    She yed the victim, clinging to Jayceon. ¡°Look what your son did to me, Jayceon. I¡¯m hurt, and the wound might be seriously infected. Can you take me to the hospital?¡±


    Jayceon looked at Fay, feeling a twinge of sympathy. She had been by his side for over a year and was usually quite considerate.


    However, he resolved that this was thest time he would take care of Fay. His heart truly belonged to Ellie.


    In the car, Brenna tried tofort Ellie. She said, ¡°Don¡¯t be upset. Jayceon isn¡¯t just seeing Fay; he¡¯s had many girlfriends. Since my wee back party, I¡¯ve kept an eye on him. Since your breakup, he has had at least three girlfriends, not counting those short-term flings.¡±


    Ellie expressed her exasperation, saying, ¡°I¡¯m not¡ª


    ¡°I¡¯m not angry, just feeling stupid. I knew nothing good woulde from this, yet here I am. I had no ns of getting back with him.¡±


    Soon after, Brenna drove Ellie and Patrick to another restaurant. The ce was cozy and crowded, but they managed to find an avable table.


    As soon as they settled in, a man approached their table.


    Thiagoughed. ¡°I¡¯ve been calling your names for some time. Why have you two been ignoring me?¡±


    The irritation on Ellie¡¯s face faded away, reced by a warm smile. ¡°Thiago, it¡¯s been ages.¡±


    Patrick, clutching his car model tightly, looked up and greeted Thiago brightly, saying, ¡°Hi, Thiago! I want lobster!¡±


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    Thiago chuckled and ruffled Patrick¡¯s hair. ¡°You got it. I¡¯ll order lobster for you.¡±


    He then said to Ellie, ¡°I was just wrapping up a business meeting here with a client.¡±


    Brenna had chosen this restaurant because she knew Thiago would be meeting a client here.


    Ellie nced around, curious about the client Thiago had mentioned. Catching her look, Thiago quickly added, ¡°The client has already left. Do you mind if I join you for a meal?¡±


    They all settled down at the table, with Thiago sitting next to Patrick, helping him with the car model. ¡°Patrick, this model was custom-made. I also have a red one. Would you like that one too?¡±


    At a nearby table, Jordy was on a date with Sylvie. Sylvie seemed to be in a bad mood; only the recent troubles faced by the Higgins family and their need for investment had convinced her to go out with Jordy.


    Jordy had already spotted Brenna. She looked more striking than ever, having shed her casual style from her days with the Barrett family for a more elegant and sophisticated appearance.


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    Previously, Brenna had sported blue hair and dressed in simple T-shirts and jeans, looking ordinary.


    Now, Brenna had done her hair and dressed in designer clothes, transforming herself into a picture of elegance.


    He thought back to the times when Brenna had deeply cared for him. Had Isabe not intervened, perhaps he and Brenna would be married.


    Since Brenna was the daughter of the powerful Harper family, Jordy believed that rekindling their rtionship could greatly benefit hispany.


    He grinned to himself and turned his attention back to Sylvie, continuing their conversation. ¡°Miss Higgins, since that horse race, I haven¡¯t been able to stop thinking about you,¡± he said, smiling charmingly as he tended to her attentively.


    Sylvie, however, kept her distance, her gaze dismissive. Growing impatient, she said, ¡°Mr. Barton, have you given any thought to the investment I mentioned? The Higgins Group is worth billions. If you decide to invest in us, you won¡¯t regret it.¡±


    Jordy wasn¡¯t foolish. There was no logical reason for a billion-dor corporation to show interest in a small-scale financial lending business like his.


    He smirked, suspecting that the Higgins Group might be in worse shape than it appeared.


    Even if the Higgins Group managed to secure a loan, the chances were slim they¡¯d be able to pay it back. Jordy cast a faintly scornful look at Sylvie, his eyes slowly sweeping over her.


    Sylvie shifted ufortably under his intense gaze, shielding her exposed skin with her hand and ring back. ¡°Why are you looking at me like that?¡±


    Jordy averted his eyes and chuckled lightly. ¡°Miss Higgins, I¡¯ve invited you out many times, and you¡¯ve always said no. Now that yourpany is struggling, you suddenly agree to meet me.¡±


    With a sly grin, he pulled a room key card from his pocket, ced it on the table, and pushed it toward Sylvie.


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    ¡°If you go to this ce tonight at nine, I might consider helping the Higgins Group.¡±


    He had pieced together that the banks must have turned the Higgins Group down, driving them to seek funding from smaller firms like his. Sylvie would never have agreed to meet him if the Higgins Group wasn¡¯t desperate.


    Sylvie¡¯s eyes narrowed at the room key card, frustration boiling over. She stood abruptly, seized the wine ss before her, and threw the contents in Jordy¡¯s face.


    ¡°Who do you think you are, trying to make a move on me? No matter how desperate things be, I¡¯ll never stoop low enough to beg someone as pathetic as you.¡±


    Seething, Sylvie turned to leave.


    Jordy calmly dried his face with a napkin, maintaining hisposed facade. He called after her, ¡°Miss Higgins, don¡¯t dismiss me so quickly. If you change your mind, you know where to find me.¡±


    The restaurant was small, allowing Brenna to see the entire exchange. She recalled Jordy as someone decent in the past, but now he seemed adept at exploiting someone else¡¯s vulnerabilities.


    Brenna was about to look away, but Jordy caught her eye, gave her a brief smile, and then resumed his meal.


    Ellie, who had seen Jordy¡¯s photo before, was watching him. She let out a softugh and said, ¡°What are the odds we¡¯d cross paths with him here?¡±


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    Thiago, unconcerned about encountering Jordy, was more focused on Sylvie. He said, ¡°Sylvie has been conspiring with Rosie against Brenna. Recently, I had Joe deal with the Higgins family. Their stocks have plummeted for a month straight, wiping seventy billion from their value and pushing them into a financial crisis. Now, even banks refuse to give them loans.¡±


    Brenna smiled slightly, gratified by Thiago¡¯s efforts. ¡°Thank you, this meal is on me.¡±


    Thiago¡¯s expression hardened. ¡°Sylvie deserved what she got. She used her money to target others, so it¡¯s only fair she experiences what it¡¯s like to be poor. I¡¯ve taken simr actions against the Morrison family. Like the Higgins, theirpany¡¯s market value has dropped by sixty billion and they¡¯re desperate for loans. But Vivian isn¡¯t like Sylvie; she¡¯s just a spoiled daughter who cares only about her own pleasures. She hasn¡¯t done anything about her family¡¯s situation.¡±


    Ellie lifted her ss to clink it against theirs, her thoughts turning to the likely ns of the Higgins and Morrison families. ¡°If they want any chance at survival, their only move is to start selling off shares.¡±


    Thiago nodded in agreement, rxed. ¡°Exactly. And theirpetitors are already snapping up those shares.¡±


    Ellie said inly, ¡°They had iting.¡±


    Brenna raised her ss to Thiago. ¡°Thank you again.¡±


    In Norview, Ethan and Neville, nked by a dozen bodyguards, had just left the Ward family estate. They hadn¡¯t gotten far when several cars sped up beside them, their upants opening fire.


    ¡°Speed up!¡± Ethan said, turning to see the attackers in the trailing cars aggressively firing at his vehicle.


    The attack was intense, clearly aiming to kill him.


    Neville reached under his seat for a duffel bag, pulled out two guns, loaded them, and handed one to Ethan, keeping one for himself. Ethan saw hand grenades inside the bag. He grabbed one, yanked the pin, rolled down his window, and tossed it out after counting to two.


    His timing was perfect; the grenade exploded just as the nearby car closed in.


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    The st overturned that car, causing the two trailing vehicles to collide and flip over due to their high speed.


    With a grim expression, Ethan told the driver to elerate and shake off the remaining pursuers.


    He and Neville efficiently fired back from their windows until the attackers were out of sight, then settled back into their seats.


    Neville looked concerned. ¡°It seems they have no intention of returning our shipment, but it¡¯s essential for our automotive manufacturing.¡±


    He paused, then cautiously asked Ethan, ¡°Do you think we should reach out to the Hewitt family for help?¡±


    ¡°There is no need for that,¡± Ethan said coldly, his expression hardening like ice. ¡°I can handle a gang on my own. Besides, the Hewitt family can¡¯t be trusted. If we ask for their help, we¡¯ll owe them more than we can afford.¡±


    The car raced down the highway as bullets hammered against the bulletproof ss, leaving spiderweb-like cracks. Neville¡¯s instincts kicked in, and he shoved Ethan down.


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    Just as Ethan thought they had finally shaken off the Ward family¡¯s pursuit, more cars appeared, their attack even more relentless and aggressive. Bullets pounded the rear window, nearly shattering it.


    ¡°Step on it!¡± Ethan barked at the driver, urgency ringing in his voice.


    Digging into his bag, he pulled out two grenades. With steady hands, he yanked the pins, counted to three under his breath, and lobbed them through a narrow opening in the door.


    The explosions rocked the air as two pursuing pickup trucks were blown up.


    Atst, Ethan was out of danger.


    The tension in the car dissolved as everyone exhaled in relief. But Ethan couldn¡¯t shake a nagging feeling of unease¡ªthe bodyguards he had brought with him were all dead.


    Brenna had been swamped with work for an entire week, yet she had only managed toplete a fraction of the intricate designs for thousands ofponents. Designing a fighter jet was no easy task. It demanded relentless focus, precision, and two months of nonstop effort from her and her team.


    Amid her busy schedule, she hadn¡¯t even realized that Ethan hadn¡¯t contacted her for over a week.


    After a long day, she returned home to find Giselle alone. The three men of the Harper family hadn¡¯te back yet.


    With a bright smile, Giselle pulled Brenna toward the dining table. ¡°Are you hungry? You¡¯ve been working harder than your dad and brothers¡ªleaving early anding homete. You don¡¯t need to earn money for our family. Take a break and enjoy yourself at home.¡±


    Brenna was indeed tired and hungry. She sat down and immediately began to eat.


    ¡°Mom, this is delicious,¡± Brenna remarked.


    Giselle smiled, clearly pleased, the bracelet Brenna had gifted her glinting under the light. ¡°Next Wednesday is your birthday¡ªthe first one since you came home. I was thinking of celebrating it at home. We¡¯ll keep it small, just family and a few close friends. How does that sound?¡±


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    Brenna wasn¡¯t one for extravagant celebrations, so she readily agreed. ¡°I¡¯ll invite my friend Ellie, Patrick¡¯s mom. She is a well-known fashion designer and the founder of the M&G brand. I¡¯ll also ask my studio partners toe. It will be a lively gathering.¡±


    Giselle nodded, then casually added, ¡°I¡¯ve noticed you don¡¯t have many friends. In the future, try to make a few more. Don¡¯t just bury yourself in work.¡±


    Brenna shot her mother a casual nce. ¡°One true friend is all I need, Mom. I haven¡¯t seen you surrounded by many friends, either.¡±


    Giselle shrugged. ¡°I had plenty of friends when I was young, but as we grow older, everyone gets caught up in their own families and we drift apart. But you¡¯re right. I¡¯ll invite a few of my friends so they can meet my daughter. They all work in government, and their kids are doing well. You should get to know them.¡±


    Brenna nodded obediently, not wanting to spoil the mood. Truth be told, she wasn¡¯t very social and believed one or two close friends were more than enough for her.


    Just then, a familiar car pulled into the driveway, and Ernst stepped out.


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    Brenna and Ernst hadn¡¯t been on the best of terms. She knew he didn¡¯t like her, so she remained seated, not bothering to move to greet him. Giselle went out to greet Ernst, then walked beside him as he strode into the living room.


    ¡°Mom,¡± Ernst said to Giselle.


    Giselle eyed him, a hint of reproach in her gaze. ¡°Why haven¡¯t you been home for over half a month?¡±


    Her eyes flicked toward Brenna, who was eating quietly, and she lowered her voice. ¡°Are you still holding a grudge against Brenna?¡±


    Ernst replied coldly, ¡°No, Mom. Mypanies have been overwhelmed with orders, so I¡¯ve been staying at the house near the office.¡±


    Giselle held his arm gently. ¡°Take some time to reconnect with your sister, alright? And stop holding grudges against her. Brenna is your real sister. Rosie is your cousin, but she hurt Brenna before. You shouldn¡¯t be too close to her anymore.¡±


    This time, Ernst didn¡¯t protest. ¡°I¡¯ll listen to you,¡± he said.


    He hadn¡¯t visited Rosie in the hospital for a long time. When Rosie took the initiative to message him, he responded with nothing more than a cold reply. He had realized that Rosie was only using him against Brenna, and the revtion left him feeling disheartened.


    Satisfied that her son had changed his attitude, Giselle led him to the dining table. Ernst looked at Brenna, met her eyes, and greeted her. Brenna offered a small smile in return, greeting him politely.


    After taking his seat, Ernst reached over and served Brenna a piece of ribs. ¡°Eat more.¡±


    Giselle watched them closely, feeling anxious as silence hung between the siblings, neither mentioning the past. She cleared her throat, breaking the silence. ¡°Next Wednesday is Brenna¡¯s birthday. You should n something special for her,¡± she said to Ernst.


    Ernst hesitated, then cautiously voiced his concern. ¡°Mom, Brenna¡¯s birthday ising up next Wednesday. Maybe it¡¯s not a good idea to invite Rosie to her birthday party.¡±


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    His voice was a blend of indifference and mild irritation. While he felt some sympathy for Rosie being orphaned, hispassion had limits. He wasn¡¯t willing to ignore her bad behavior or allow her to harm his sister.


    Giselle sighed and said, ¡°Unfortunately, we need to invite her. Rosie is still part of the Harper family, and she practically grew up by my side. Excluding her openly would upset your grandparents. Despite her mistakes, she deserves some sympathy.¡±


    Brenna was displeased with this, but she understood her mother¡¯s concerns and the difficult position she was in, so she chose to remain silent.


    Ernst¡¯s brow furrowed with visible irritation. ¡°Rosie might just cause another scene. Plus, she has been hospitalized for twenty days with a broken leg, so moving around could be difficult for her. Perhaps we could find a way to exin her absence to the guests without letting here?¡±


    Giselle had visited Rosie a few times recently, but her attitude toward her had noticeably turned cold. Whenever Rosie suggested moving back in to be cared for, she always found an excuse to refuse her.


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 Chapter 367

    ?Chapter 367:


    The reason was that she had already seen Rosie¡¯s true nature.


    ¡°Perhaps we could offer a courtesy invitation to Rosie,¡± Giselle suggested. ¡°We can pretend to invite her, and she¡¯ll probably decline, saying it¡¯s inconvenient for her to move in her current state.¡±


    Ernst nodded in agreement. ¡°That would work. After everything she has done, she should recognize the position she¡¯s in. If she knows that, she¡¯ll likely decline.¡±


    Brenna quietly observed the exchange and noticed a change in how Ernst viewed Rosie. He had finally stopped blindly defending her. It appeared Ernst had just been under Rosie¡¯s maniption before.


    Brenna spoke up firmly. ¡°If she attends and disrupts the party, I¡¯ll ensure she faces the consequences.¡±


    This time, Ernst did not rush to Rosie¡¯s defense. Instead, he said, ¡°I¡¯ll stay out of the matter, Brenna. I misjudged her and didn¡¯t see your side before. That won¡¯t happen again.¡±


    Brenna offered an awkward smile. ¡°I just hope you don¡¯t hold a grudge against me, Ernst. After all, you left the Harper Group because of the situation with me.¡±


    Ernst didn¡¯t hold a grudge against Brenna. Even though he had stepped down as CEO of the Harper Group, people in the business circle still didn¡¯t dare to underestimate him. In fact, his team now found it easier to close deals than before.


    The reason was simple. Ernst might have left the Harper Group, but he was still a Harper and the rightful heir of the family. That wasn¡¯t going to change.


    Using the connections he had built when he was CEO of the Harper Group, he pushed his ownpanies to new heights.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry; I don¡¯t hold a grudge,¡± Ernst reassured Brenna. ¡°I did make some mistakes before. I¡¯ve joined an executive leadership program to improve my skills. When I return as CEO of the Harper Group, I intend to surpass Dalton.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s joy was clear as she watched her children reconcile.


    She said, ¡°Next Wednesday, for Brenna¡¯s birthday, I¡¯m inviting some old friends, and they¡¯ll be bringing their daughters, all of whom are very aplished. Ernst, you can pick one you like then.¡±


    Ernst¡¯s face darkened instantly. ¡°Mom, we shouldn¡¯t treat people as options to select from. Plus, I already have someone I like.¡±


    Giselle was displeased. ¡°I¡¯m aware of your rtionship with your secretary, Sabine, who now lives with you. I think she¡¯s only after your money. I don¡¯t approve of you two being together.¡±


    Brenna observed the conversation with a subtle smile, choosing to remain silent.


    Ernst spoke up strongly in defense of Sabine. ¡°Mom, whether she¡¯s after my money or not, I like her. How can you be sure the daughters of your friends aren¡¯t also interested in my wealth? I don¡¯t have any emotional bond with them. Why would you think they¡¯d be interested in dating me? Would they still look my way if I were neither wealthy nor handsome?¡±


    Brenna chuckled and said, ¡°That¡¯s a valid point, Mom. Why not invite Sabine this Wednesday and see for yourself?¡±


    Ernst hadn¡¯t expected Brenna to speak up for him and shed her a grateful smile.


    Although Sabine came from humble beginnings, she was not only highly capable but also truly dedicated to Ernst. Her love for him was real, and she was willing to go to great lengths for him, even if it meant standing against Brenna.


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    ?Chapter 368:


    Giselle let out a frustrated sigh, clearly displeased.


    Brenna yfully suggested to Giselle, ¡°Maybe you should try offering her a million dors to leave Ernst and see what she decides?¡±


    Caught off guard but intrigued, Ernst agreed, ¡°Indeed. That¡¯s an interesting test. I¡¯ll bring Sabine along on Wednesday. I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll change your mind once you meet her.¡±


    As Giselle stayed silent, Ernst continued, ¡°You¡¯re not thinking that just because Sabine is from an ordinary family, she is unworthy of being with me, right? With your progressive views, why would her social status matter?¡±


    Following Giselle¡¯s instructions, Brenna had avoided going to the studio on Wednesday, hoping to prevent another mishap like the one at the return banquet, where herte arrival had caused unnecessary misunderstandings.


    Determined to stay on top of her workload, Brenna spent Tuesday night working tirelessly, pushing herself until the early hours. She finally sumbed to exhaustion and copsed into bed at three in the morning.


    By the time Brenna awoke, it was well past noon, and her stomach growled in protest.


    Quickly throwing on some clothes, she made her way downstairs in search of something to eat.


    Meanwhile, preparations for the evening¡¯s birthday party were well underway. Giselle had spared no expense, hiring three professional chef teams¡ªone for the main courses, one for appetizers, and another for desserts. Each team came equipped with its own specialized tools and had set up a temporary kitchen in the farthest corner of the Harper family¡¯s sprawling estate.


    Amid this flurry of preparation, with staff darting between decorations and deliveries, Brenna¡¯s quiet descent went unnoticed.


    She soon found the family¡¯s head chef still orchestrating lunch service, the meal not ready yet.


    Julia, now promoted to housekeeper, spotted Brenna and approached her with a friendly smile. ¡°Miss Harper,¡± she said warmly, ¡°Mrs. Harper hasmissioned elite culinary experts for tonight¡¯s event, including Shirie¡¯s most celebrated pastry chef. They¡¯re all set up in the garden; would you like to take a look?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s interest was immediately piqued. She nodded, eager to see what they were preparing.


    Upon entering the garden, she saw the chefs busy with their preparations. The teams for the main courses and appetizers were still working with ingredients, and none of the dishes were ready yet. However, the dessert team hadpleted a selection of delicate treats, already arranged and waiting to be served.


    As Brenna took in the scene, a familiar voice spoke from behind her. ¡°Ensure the desserts are properly stored in the fridge. We can¡¯t risk losing their freshness orpromising their quality.¡±


    Brenna turned, her eyes widening slightly as she saw Rosie sitting in a wheelchair with her legs wrapped in casts.


    For a moment, she couldn¡¯t help but let out a small, exasperatedugh. ¡°You¡¯re injured like this, and you¡¯re still here to attend the party?¡±


    Rosie met Brenna¡¯s gaze, her eyes softening with unexpected sincerity. ¡°Brenna, you¡¯re here. I¡¯ve had a lot of time to reflect on my actions regarding the Harper Group designpetition, and I¡¯ve realized how wrong I was. I asked Mom for a chance to make amends, and I¡¯m here to help with the preparations.¡±


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 Chapter 369

    ?Chapter 369:


    Brenna moved toward the fridge, casually pulling out a freshly made cake and digging into it with a fork, her eyes narrowing as she looked at Rosie. ¡°In your condition, do you really think you¡¯re helping anyone? All you¡¯re doing is making things more difficult here. If you truly want to help, leave this ce. Thest thing you need is for something to fall on you, and then you¡¯ll be stuck in your wheelchair for good.¡±


    She didn¡¯t believe Rosie had truly changed.


    Rosie looked at her, and a flicker of hurt passed through her eyes. ¡°No, I swear, I won¡¯t be a bother. I mean it¡ªI¡¯ve really changed. I even went as far as to order a dress and arranged for the best makeup artist in Shirie for you. They should be here soon. I genuinely hope you¡¯ll forgive me for everything.¡±


    Brenna, uninterested in continuing the conversation, took her te and turned to leave without another word.


    The moment Brenna was out of sight, Rosie¡¯s expression turned cold. Her hands gripped the armrests of her wheelchair so tightly that her knuckles turned white.


    She had done everything she could to make amends, but Brenna barely acknowledged her efforts. Why did she have to work so hard to please her?


    Rosie pressed a button on her chair to move to a quieter spot, pulling out her phone with a determined look. She typed quickly, her fingers moving swiftly across the screen. ¡°You are not here yet. Why the dy?¡±


    The reply came promptly. ¡°Sorry, there¡¯s traffic. I¡¯ll be there in an hour, but don¡¯t worry; it won¡¯t dy anything.¡±


    Rachael stepped out of the living room with aposed expression, her movements deliberate as she approached Rosie. Leaning down, she whispered softly, ¡°Everything is in ce. There¡¯s no need to worry.¡±


    Brenna returned to the dining room, eating slowly as Julia approached her. With a hushed tone, Julia said, ¡°Miss Harper, Rachael¡¯s back. She was deep in conversation with two maids for quite some time. I have a feeling they¡¯re scheming something. Do you think she could be holding a grudge after being dismissed and might try to cause trouble now?¡±


    Brenna considered the possibility, her eyes narrowing as she processed Julia¡¯s words.


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    ¡°It¡¯s definitely a possibility. Keep an eye on her and Rosie, and let me know if they do anything suspicious.¡±


    She knew Rosie well enough to understand she wouldn¡¯t easily ept defeat. Rosie¡¯s sudden return and eagerness to help felt far too odd, and Brenna couldn¡¯t shake the suspicion that something was off.


    Though Brenna doubted Rachael and Rosie would go as far as poisoning the food, her curiosity about Rosie¡¯s intentions was piqued. She said to Julia, ¡°If you notice anything unusual, don¡¯t do anything. Just let me know quietly.¡±


    Julia nodded in agreement before returning to her duties.


    Outside, a white car glided to a stop in front of the house. Ellie stepped out with graceful precision, carrying a handbag and gently holding her son¡¯s hand as they walked toward the entrance.


    Brenna set her cake down gently and approached Ellie with a warm smile. ¡°You made it! I¡¯m so d you¡¯re here.¡±


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 Chapter 370

    ?Chapter 370:


    ¡°Happy birthday!¡± Patrick eximed, holding out a small box to Brenna with both hands, his face beaming with excitement.


    Touched by his gesture, Brenna crouched down and gently ruffled his hair, a softugh escaping her. ¡°The desserts are over there. Help yourself to anything you like, and don¡¯t hesitate to ask the chef for more if you want.¡±


    She then turned and called for Julia, signaling for her to take care of Patrick and make sure he feltfortable.


    As Brenna led Ellie upstairs, Ellie¡¯s face lit up with anticipation. ¡°I brought you something special¡ªa dress I designed just for you.¡±


    At that moment, a sleek silver-gray car pulled up at the entrance. A graceful, middle-aged woman stepped out, her demeanor dignified. She approached the entrance and said politely, ¡°Is this the home of Miss Brenna Harper? I¡¯vee to deliver some dresses.¡±


    Rosie lingered in the dessert kitchen area and hadn¡¯t left yet. From her position, she saw the business car parked at the entrance where the female store manager stood, politely holding tworge bags.


    A smile began to form on her lips. She was certain that once Brenna put on one of those dresses, something unfortunate was bound to happen.


    Not far from Rosie, Julia walked with Patrick just a few meters from the kitchen. She looked at Patrick and instructed, ¡°Patrick, I need to check something. You can go to the dessert area; feel free to pick something to eat.¡±


    Obediently, Patrick nodded and made his way to the dessert area alone. Upon reaching the entrance, Julia was surprised to see a middle-aged woman holding something for delivery politely.


    She observed that the tote bags bore the SNE logo, a brand renowned for its luxurious clothes, bags, and scarves. Giselle, however, hadn¡¯t ced any orders for their products recently.


    Typically, Giselle preferred visiting the store to personally see and pick up the items, seldom opting for home delivery.


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    Could it be that since today was Brenna¡¯s birthday, Giselle had ordered dresses for her?


    If so, Giselle would have likely informed her to expect the delivery.


    Moreover, Julia remembered Brenna mentioning that her dress for the day was custom-made by her friend, indicating no ns to order externally.


    Approaching the woman, Julia courteously asked, ¡°Hello, who might you be looking for?¡±


    The woman responded, ¡°Hello, I¡¯m the store manager from SNE. Is this Miss Brenna Harper¡¯s home?¡±


    With patience, Julia replied, ¡°Indeed it is. How may I help you?¡±


    The store manager offered the bags to Julia, exining, ¡°These dresses were ordered by Mrs. Harper from our store, two of them. Please, have a look.¡±


    Instead of epting the bags, Julia reached for her phone to ask Brenna about this.


    ¡°Miss Harper, there¡¯s a delivery from SNE here with two dresses. Should I ept them?¡±


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 Chapter 371

    ?Chapter 371:


    Brenna answered calmly, ¡°No, do not ept them. Neither my mother nor I have ced any orders for dresses.¡±


    After hanging up the call, Brenna turned to Ellie and said, ¡°It¡¯s possible someone¡¯s trying to curry favor with my mom.¡±


    Ellie simplyughed and steered the conversation elsewhere.


    At the entrance, Julia respectfully declined the delivery, saying, ¡°I apologize, but neither Mrs. Harper nor Miss Harper has ordered any dresses. Could you please verify your records?¡±


    By then, Rosie had arrived in her electric wheelchair and said, ¡°I was the one who ordered the dresses. I discussed it with Mom about ordering dresses for Brenna. It¡¯s possible she didn¡¯t mention it to Brenna. Julia, just ept the delivery and take it up to Brenna¡¯s room.¡±


    The store manager¡¯s demeanor shifted to one of deep respect and politeness toward Rosie as she smiled. ¡°I knew it! Our store doesn¡¯t make errors, especially not with such a high-profile brand. Each dress here is priced at over a hundred thousand, and with two dresses, that nearly reaches half a million. How could we possibly err?¡±


    Her expression toward Julia hardened, her irritation clear as she extended the bags with amanding gesture. ¡°Take these inside right away. What are you waiting for? Isn¡¯t today Miss Harper¡¯s birthday? Can you afford to dy this?¡±


    She clearly thought Rosie was the owner of the Harper estate.


    Julia did not ept the bags, nor did she bother to offer a polite smile. ¡°Mrs. Harper instructed me not to ept deliveries casually.¡±


    The store manager, taking offense at Julia¡¯s seemingly arrogant stance, retorted sharply, ¡°What is this attitude? Didn¡¯t you hear what Miss Rosie Harper said just now? Bring them inside immediately!¡±


    Julia responded with a smirk but did not move. She spected that the woman might be unaware of Rosie¡¯s recent ousting from the Harper family.


    Rosie, annoyed by Julia¡¯sck of respect, tried to assert herself. ¡°Did you not hear me? Take them. My mother is aware of this order. Why the hesitation?¡±


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    Julia, disliking Rosie¡¯s condescending approach toward the staff in the house, maintained her poise and replied, ¡°I will verify this with Mrs. Harper right now.¡±


    A twinge of unease crept over Rosie. She had never really spoken to Giselle about this. All she had done was casually mention wanting to buy Brenna some dresses as an apology. And Giselle had turned down the idea.


    ¡°There¡¯s no need for you to call, I¡¯ll handle it,¡± said Rosie, quickly pulling out her phone, worried she might get exposed.


    Wearing a bright smile and putting on her sweetest voice, she called Giselle and said, ¡°Mom, I¡¯ve already ordered two dresses for Brenna, and they¡¯ve arrived. Should I send them up to her?¡±


    Giselle had spent the day at Shirie University, giving two public lectures, and had just wrapped up her work.


    When she heard what Rosie said, her mood soured. Hadn¡¯t she made it clear there was no need for her to do that? Thest time Rosie had taken it upon herself to order dresses, the situation had turned into a mess, and Brenna had nearly ended up with nothing to wear. There was no way she could just trust Rosie to handle the matter again.


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    ?Chapter 372:


    Thinking about the current tensions within the family, Giselle considered Rosie¡¯s feelings and didn¡¯t refuse outright. ¡°Alright, you can have people take the dresses to Brenna.¡±


    Whether Brenna would actually wear them was not up to her.


    Rosie had switched the call to speakerphone. Hearing that, she shed a smug grin at Julia. ¡°You heard her, didn¡¯t you? Now take the bags!¡±


    Julia understood every word and picked up on the hesitance in Giselle¡¯s tone. She opted not to reply directly but instead said, ¡°Miss Brenna Harper has already arranged for a friend to craft her dress for today¡¯s asion. It¡¯s unlikely she will wear these two dresses even if they are brought to her.¡±


    The manager scoffed, her expression filled with disdain. She said, ¡°I mean no disrespect to Miss Brenna Harper¡¯s friend, but these dresses are from renowned international designers. Each is worth hundreds of thousands of dors. They far surpass anything a typical tailor could create.¡±


    Standing her ground, Julia challenged the manager, asking, ¡°Are you looking down on Miss Brenna Harper¡¯s friend?¡±


    With an arrogant tilt of her head, the manager retorted, ¡°Those are your words, not mine. Perhaps Miss Brenna Harper¡¯s friend is just an average tailor. The dress they made won¡¯t be good. It surely can¡¯t match the caliber of international brands.¡±


    She gave Julia a dismissive look. ¡°Lead the way quickly so I can personally deliver these dresses to Miss Brenna Harper. As a mere maid, you shouldn¡¯t be dying this.¡±


    Rosie, too, disyed a sense of superiority and disdain toward Julia, intentionally making the situation difficult for her.


    Julia felt infuriated. Although she worked as a maid for the Harper family, she respected her hard-earned position. The Harpers respected her, so why should someone from outside the family treat her with such arrogance?


    She said to the manager, ¡°You¡¯re merely a person who sells clothes, earning less than I do. Why should you have the privilege of seeing Miss Brenna Harper?¡±


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    Rosie became furious. By insulting the person she had brought, Julia had also insulted her. She attempted to p Julia but, confined to her wheelchair, was unable to do so.


    She scolded Julia sharply, ¡°Did you not hear me? Take her upstairs now. These dresses are crucial, as Brenna needs to wear one today. Any further dys, and I will ask my mother to fire you!¡±


    Julia no longer regarded Rosie as a member of the Harper family. She bluntly said, ¡°Miss Rosie Harper, Miss Brenna Harper already made arrangements with her friend for the dress she will be wearing today. She won¡¯t need these dresses, so¡ª¡±


    Let¡¯s not bother her with this matter. Moreover, you are not a member of this family anymore andck the right to issue orders.¡±


    Undeterred by Rosie¡¯s anger, Julia remained firm.


    Rosie, seething with rage, hit the armrest of her wheelchair. ¡°How dare you defy me?¡±


    Julia was resolute. ¡°I answer only to the Harper family. You are no longer part of the Harper family now.¡±


    Rosie let out an irritated snort. ¡°Come on,¡± she said to the manager. ¡°I¡¯ll take you upstairs.¡±


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    Despite her reluctance and hatred for Rosie, Julia didn¡¯t dare stop her and followed her to the third floor.


    When Brenna opened the door, she looked momentarily surprised before asking Julia, ¡°Didn¡¯t I already mention that I didn¡¯t want these dresses? Why are they still being brought up?¡±


    Julia said directly, ¡°Miss Rosie Harper insisted on bringing these up. She even belittled the work of your friend, iming she is merely a mediocre tailor.¡±


    Julia raised an eyebrow and gave Rosie a sharp look, not backing down.


    Rosie, seething with anger, retorted, ¡°How can you say something like that? You¡¯re only a maid!¡±


    Julia was unfazed by Rosie¡¯s outrage. Recalling Rosie¡¯s previous stay in the house, she remembered how Rosie had often demeaned the staff with her harsh words and arrogant demeanor. Even after her departure, she still behaved as though shemanded authority here. It seemed Rosie still hadn¡¯t realized her ce.


    Julia said, ¡°My true employers are Mr. and Mrs. Harper, the two young masters, and Miss Brenna Harper. Miss Rosie Harper, you are merely a visitor here. You are crossing a line by treating me like I am beneath you.¡±


    Brenna and Ellie couldn¡¯t suppress theirughter, clearly amused by Julia¡¯s candidness.


    Brennaughed lightly and addressed Rosie, saying, ¡°Your manner of speaking really is unique. Nowadays, we strive for equality for everyone. She may be a maid, but she earns her keep by working here; she is not someone beneath you. Perhaps you ought to show a bit more respect.¡±


    Despite her boiling anger, Rosie had to keep her emotions in check; she needed to stayposed for her n to humiliate Brenna to proceed.


    ¡°Stop pretending to be¡ª¡±


    She¡¯s merely a servant. Why defend her? Let¡¯s get to the point. Here are the two dresses I ordered for you. Try them on now,¡± she said in amanding tone.


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    The manager was a bit surprised. She now realized Rosie no longer held any sway in the Harper family and regretted her part in tampering with the dresses.


    After all, the potential consequences of offending the Harper family were daunting!


    Despite knowing this, she had no option but to adhere to Rosie¡¯s directive since she had epted her money. Nervously, she presented the dresses.


    Brenna nced at the dresses and said, ¡°No need. Just set them aside.¡± She didn¡¯t even ept the bags containing the dresses, giving Julia a silent signal.


    Julia let out a mocking scoff as she grabbed the two bags, dropping them carelessly onto the floor. She shot a scornful re at both the manager and Rosie. What difference did it make that they had carried the bags upstairs? Brenna hadn¡¯t even spared them a nce.


    Rosie, overwhelmed by frustration, said to Brenna, ¡°I spent a great amount of money on these dresses, and this is how you repay my kind gesture?¡±


    Brenna couldn¡¯t hide the spark of satisfaction dancing in her eyes as she watched Rosie fume. A slow smile curled on her lips as she said, ¡°Remember my wee-back party? You ordered three dresses for me. And what happened? All three were mysteriously ruined. On such an important asion, I almost had nothing to wear.¡±


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    ?Chapter 374:


    Her gaze locked onto Rosie¡¯s, sharp and unwavering, as she said directly, ¡°I¡¯m not about to let you pull the same stunt again. What if you sabotage the dresses this time, too? Frankly, I don¡¯t trust you.¡±


    Rosie caught the sarcasmced in Brenna¡¯s tone and rolled her eyes, shaking her head. ¡°Really? Do you think I would be dumb enough to use the same trick twice? These two dresses are fine!¡±


    This time, she didn¡¯t make the dresses fall apart at the seams, exposing skin with the slightest movement. Instead, she hade up with a new n to humiliate Brenna.


    Brenna let out a dryugh and spread her hands, clearly not believing her.


    Rosie¡¯s eyes narrowed as she saw the two dresses on the bed, likely designed by Brenna¡¯s friend. She sneered, ¡°Who exactly is your friend anyway? The dresses she made won¡¯t be any good. If you dared to wear the dress she made in front of anyone, you would be theughingstock of the night.¡±


    Ellie, who had been enjoying the drama from the sidelines, suddenly found herself pulled into it. She wasn¡¯t happy about this at all.


    She stepped forward, snatched one of the dresses off the bed, and pointed firmly at the logo stitched on the chest. ¡°I¡¯m a designer and the founder of M&G. Take a good look at this before you speak nonsense.¡±


    Her nostrils red as she added, ¡°And the dress you are wearing right now? That is also designed by me.¡±


    Rosie scoffed, her face contorting with disdain, ¡°Stop pretending. Would a real M&G designer do something as shameful as having a child without even being married? You are pretty, but that¡¯s about it. Do you think you can fool us by passing off a knockoff as the real deal? Do you take us all for fools?¡±


    Ellie retorted, ¡°If you can¡¯t tell quality when you see it, that¡¯s on you.¡±


    After saying that, she held the dress up in front of Rosie, the logo clearly visible. ¡°Open your eyes and look. Is this real or just a knockoff?¡±


    Anyone familiar with the brand would instantly recognize the signature embroidery, the ¡°M&G¡± letters, done with a special, intricate technique.


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    Rosie¡¯s eyes flickered to the dress, her expression shifting as she realized it was an authentic M&G piece.


    However, she refused to admit it. It wasn¡¯t because she doubted Ellie¡¯s words; it was because the thought of Brenna¡¯s friend being the famous designer and founder of M&G was something she couldn¡¯t stomach.


    Brenna didn¡¯t deserve to have such an influential friend.


    Besides, these two dresses were thetest designs, not yet released to the public. How could Brenna possibly be worthy of such exclusive clothes?


    A bitter resentment simmered within Rosie. She stared at Brenna for what felt like an eternity.


    Then, she turned her wheelchair and left without a word.


    Brenna let out a sharp snort and mmed the door shut with a loud bang.


    ¡°Ignore her. Let us continue,¡± she said to Ellie.


    Meanwhile, Rosie headed back to the dessert area, only to discover that Patrick had already devoured several slices of cake, clearly enjoying every bite.


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    ?Chapter 375:


    The fact that this charming boy was the son of Brenna¡¯s friend added fuel to her already smoldering irritation. The humiliation she had just suffered left her with a need to vent her frustration on the child. She might not have been able to outwit Brenna, but surely she could handle a child, right?


    As she quietly mulled over how to deal with Patrick, something about his face sparked a flicker of recognition. He looked familiar, though she couldn¡¯t quite ce where she had seen him before.


    Soon, it dawned on her that this was the boy from the photos Isabe had sent her.


    Instantly, she realized he was Jayceon¡¯s illegitimate child. She clearly remembered the chaos at the Harper Group building when Brenna had been swarmed by the crowd, all because of this boy. Jayceon had publicly acknowledged the child at that time.


    Everyone was curious about who the child¡¯s mother was, but despite her best efforts, Rosie hadn¡¯t uncovered anything before.


    Now, she knew who the boy¡¯s mother was. The globally renowned M&G founder had a child out of wedlock. This would be a major scandal.


    In a rush of excitement, Rosie quickly pulled out her phone and snapped several photos of the boy.


    Patrick seemed to sense something and turned to nce at Rosie.


    Rosie quickly tucked her phone away, pretending to casually fiddle with it, all the while keeping a watchful eye on the boy from the corner of her eye.


    Unlike most children, Patrick had been raised in a hostile environment, which made him especially cautious. Feeling ufortable around Rosie, he clutched a piece of cream cake in his chubby hand and turned, the cake wobbling dangerously in his grasp.


    Suddenly, the cake fell from his hand andnded squarely on Rosie¡¯s dress, the red and white cream making her already gaudy dress even more garish.


    Rosie was furious as she gazed down at her dress, which she had paid for herself and had worn for the first time. It had cost her a fortune. ¡°You little bastard! You did that on purpose!¡± she snapped, her voice sharp with anger.


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    Patrick¡¯s face stayed tense as he stared at the cream for a moment before mumbling, ¡°I¡¯m sorry!¡±


    Patrick was no stranger to the term ¡°little bastard.¡± Back in Norview, several ssmates from his kindergarten had often called him that. He understood it wasn¡¯t meant as apliment. His big eyes widened in anger as he looked at Rosie.


    Rosie scolded Patrick sharply, ¡°Look at what you¡¯ve done to my dress! This dress is worth tens of thousands of dors. Do you think you can afford topensate me?¡±


    Her expression darkened as she looked at her dress, her anger evident. Patrick pouted, already feeling annoyed by the prettydy he hadn¡¯t liked to begin with. Now that she was scolding him, his irritation swelled. He tightened his little fists in frustration and shouted, ¡°You¡¯re so mean! You¡¯re a bad woman!¡±


    He took a deep breath, plotting his next move as he eyed the cakes on the table.


    Recalling his mother¡¯s advice that children shouldn¡¯t always resort to fighting and shouldmunicate peacefully, he firmly said to Rosie, ¡°You insulted me. I want an apology.¡±


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 Chapter 376

    ?Chapter 376:


    Rosie, enraged, retorted, ¡°By what right do you demand an apology from me? Compensate me for my dress first!¡±


    Patrick had intentionally stained her dress. He had already sensed her malicious intentions, especially when he had realized she had been secretly recording him. He didn¡¯t know what she intended to do with the footage.


    He stood his ground. ¡°You insulted me. Apologize.¡±


    Rosie scoffed, finding the boy as irritating as his mother. Having been embarrassed by Ellie earlier and now facing this child¡¯s defiance, she was furious.


    She sneered, ¡°It was you who ruined my dress first.¡±


    Without hesitation, Patrick grabbed a cream cake from the table and smashed it into Rosie¡¯s face.


    After doing that, he hurried away, only to collide with Julia. Without a word, he quickly shouted, ¡°Run!¡±


    Julia, unclear about the specifics but hearing Rosie¡¯s furious shouts from the courtyard, figured that Patrick had gotten into trouble.


    ¡°What have you done?¡± she asked Patrick while following him. She wasn¡¯t concerned about Rosie retaliating. With Brenna present, she doubted Rosie would¡ª


    They hurried into the elevator and ascended to the third floor. Once safe, Patrick detailed the entire situation to Julia.


    Julia didn¡¯t see it as a significant issue, though it was indeed a bit troublesome. She crouched down and suggested to Patrick, ¡°We should inform your mom and godmother about this before that bad womanins.¡±


    Patrick nodded and said, ¡°Yes, let¡¯s inform them first.¡±


    The two of them pushed the door open, finding Brenna calmly exining a trait of the Harper family to Ellie.


    ¡°You might not be aware, but all the Harper family members share a hereditary allergy to mangoes. It¡¯s something only our family knows. Even our household staff is in the dark about it. My dad insists it must remain a secret to prevent anyone from using it against us.¡±


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    While inspecting the two dresses delivered by Rosie, Ellie detected the scent of mango on the cors, suggesting the dresses had been smeared with mango juice.


    Her expression hardened. ¡°Rosie is really malicious. We can¡¯t allow her to get away with this.¡±


    ¡°Mommy, Brenna!¡± Patrick burst into the room, his eyes sparkling with mischief.


    Seeing his expression, Ellie immediately sensed that something was wrong. He had the same look whenever he got into trouble at school or was up to no good. She gave his head a light tap. ¡°What trouble have you gotten yourself into this time?¡±


    Patrick quickly told everything to Ellie. Then, he added, ¡°That bad woman also called me names.¡±


    From the hallway, Rosie¡¯s furious voice could be heard. ¡°Little bastard,e out!¡±


    Ellie¡¯s temper erupted immediately. She snatched up the dresses Rosie had brought and rubbed them against another dress. Before Rosie entered, Ellie separated the dresses.


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 Chapter 377

    ?Chapter 377:


    She marched over to confront Rosie, but when she saw Rosie¡¯s face smeared with cream, she stopped herself from pping her, unwilling to get her hands dirty.


    ¡°How dare you insult my son like that?¡± she asked sharply.


    Rosie¡¯s anger red even more. In an attempt toin about Patrick, she had refused to let the servants wipe the cream off her face, but that only caused her to beughed at.


    ¡°How did you raise your son? He threw cream at my face. If you won¡¯t teach him manners, then I will,¡± she said, reaching for Patrick. As she tried to grab him, he dodged and sprinted away, nearly causing her to tip over in her wheelchair.


    Ellie stepped in her way. ¡°You already insulted him for that. You two are even now.¡±


    Unsatisfied, Rosie retorted, ¡°My dress is expensive, and now it¡¯s ruined. You need topensate me!¡±


    She nced at the beige M&G dress on the bed, feeling a strong desire for it.


    Ellie threw the dresses Rosie had brought back at her. ¡°Then you can take these dresses back now!¡±


    Rosie pointed at the beige dress and said, ¡°I want that one.¡±


    Brenna and Ellie exchanged nces, each struggling to hold back theirughter.


    From Rosie¡¯s reaction, they were certain of their suspicions. The two dresses sent by the manager clearly had problems, which exined Rosie¡¯s refusal to ept them.


    Rosie was stubborn about taking the two dresses Ellie had designed for Brenna, which was exactly what they had anticipated.


    However, Brenna knew that if Rosie acquired Ellie¡¯s designs without difficulty, she might suspect a trap.


    Thus, Brenna firmly refused Rosie¡¯s request, saying, ¡°Absolutely not. These are exclusive designs Ellie crafted specifically for me. They are unique. Why should I hand them over to you?¡±


    Rosie persisted, her tone harsh as she said, ¡°Your son caused this mess! My dress is ruined; I can¡¯t be seen like this. Why shouldn¡¯t youpensate me?¡±


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    Her eyes scanned the four dressesid out on the bed, scheming to force Brenna into wearing one of the dresses from the store manager. Suddenly, an idea came to her.


    She maneuvered her wheelchair closer, snatched the red dress designed by Ellie, and hastily used it to clean the cream from her face. Brenna and Ellie reacted too slowly to stop her, and both were visibly angered by this.


    But the damage was done; the red dress was now stained with cream. Rosie, smirking, dropped the ruined dress on the floor and lifted the beige one. ¡°I¡¯ll take this one,¡± she said.


    She hummed contentedly, reveling in the frustration evident on Ellie¡¯s and Brenna¡¯s faces.


    She then wheeled herself toward the door of the adjacent room, the one she had previously upied.


    As she entered the room and closed the door behind her, she muttered under her breath, ¡°Thought you could outsmart me? You¡¯re still too naive, Brenna. What does it matter if you¡¯re friends with the founder of M&G? You¡¯re still being yed by me. You¡¯ll soon get allergic. Let¡¯s see how you celebrate your birthday in the hospital!¡±


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 Chapter 378

    ?Chapter 378:


    Back in Brenna¡¯s room, Brenna and Ellie shared a look of victory.


    Meanwhile, Julia stood bewildered, holding the ruined red dress. ¡°Miss Harper, this dress is ruined. What should we do? The birthday party starts in just three hours.¡±


    In her view, Brenna¡¯s dresses were exceedingly valuable, far too delicate for any conventional cleaning. These high-end dresses were almost like single-use items; many couldn¡¯t withstand even one wash without shrinking or losing their shape.


    Brenna appeared unruffled by the situation. She passed the three dresses to Julia and said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry; three hours is more than enough. Just wash and dry these dresses. They¡¯ll be ready to wear in no time.¡±


    Julia epted the dresses, a bit uncertain. ¡°Alright, but I might not be able to iron them as well as a professional would.¡±


    Ellie nodded, saying, ¡°That¡¯s okay. I chose durable fabrics for my designs; the dress I designed can be washed. As for the two dresses from SNE with mango juice on them, Brenna can¡¯t wear those. If you¡¯d like, they¡¯re yours.¡±


    Julia¡¯s spirits lifted instantly. She gazed at the dresses joyfully and responded eagerly, ¡°Thank you! I don¡¯t have a mango allergy, so I¡¯ll dly wear them!¡±


    The two dresses were expensive. Even if she paid to have them dry-cleaned, it would still be worth it.


    Soon, Brenna and Ellie headed to the dining room for lunch. At that moment, Rosie reappeared from the adjacent bedroom, having removed the cream from her face and changed into the beige dress, looking quite satisfied with herself.


    Brenna even offered her apliment, saying, ¡°That dress looks quite nice on you.¡±


    Rosie, caught off guard by Brenna¡¯s casual attire, asked her, ¡°Why haven¡¯t you changed into your dress yet?¡±


    Brenna responded casually, ¡°Why the rush? The party isn¡¯t starting right away. I don¡¯t want to risk getting the dress dirty.¡±


    Rosie huffed dismissively and wheeled herself towards the elevator.


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    Brenna and Ellie used the stairs. Ellie, noticing that Rosie¡¯s mango allergy hadn¡¯t shown any signs yet, grew concerned. ¡°Do you think the mango juice won¡¯t be strong enough?¡± she asked.


    Brenna reassured her with augh, ¡°Just give it some time. It should take effect soon.¡±


    Ahead, Patrick happily skipped down the stairs, tossing a paper airne that soared all the way to the living room on the first floor. He chased after it.


    Ellie expressed her frustration, hoping for a quick resolution. ¡°I really hope her allergy acts up soon so she can leave. Her presence just ruins the atmosphere.¡±


    After a pause, she continued, clearly annoyed, ¡°It¡¯s like she returned solely to cause trouble and upset you. She knows she¡¯s unwee here, but she still came back. It¡¯s so irritating.¡±


    In front of her trusted friend, Brenna didn¡¯t conceal her feelings. ¡°I can¡¯t stand her, either. If she continues to bother me, I¡¯ll stop being nice to her.¡±


    Rosie and Brenna were the only Harpers at home for lunch, as the rest of the family was still out, leaving them alone except for the servants. Rosie handled her utensils with elegance, embodying the demeanor expected of someone from a distinguished family. She sat upright and couldn¡¯t help but look down on Brenna¡¯s more rxed dining style, considering it unsuitable for someone of her status. Rosie thought such behavior at Brenna¡¯s birthday banquet would surely be a topic of mockery.


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 Chapter 379

    ?Chapter 379:


    After finishing her lunch with grace and efficiency, Rosie felt a slight itch at the back of her neck. It was a small irritation, nothing that seemed concerning.


    She expressed her annoyance about the household staff. ¡°Why are there still mosquitoes in here? The staff are really neglecting their duties.¡±


    She was certain that the M&G brand dress she was wearing had been meant for Brenna. Since she trusted that Brenna wouldn¡¯t have tampered with it, she had put it on without a second thought. She never even considered the chance of a mango allergy.


    Brenna showed little interest in interacting with Rosie, merely offering a brief, indifferent look before she and Ellie went upstairs. The birthday party was fully organized by Julia, requiring no effort from Brenna.


    Meanwhile, Rosie felt slighted seeing Brenna walk away without saying anything to her, which stirred a mix of difort and irritation within her.


    The itch on her neck intensified, leading her to scratch her skin aggressively. The irritation spread quickly, and upon looking at herself in a mirror in the living room, she was shocked to see her neck red and swollen.


    Realization hit her¡ªit was a mango allergy reaction!


    She cried out, her breath shallow as she gasped for air, struggling to catch it.


    A maid dropped the fruit she was holding and rushed to Rosie¡¯s side, concerned. ¡°Miss Harper, what¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Realizing the dress was the issue, Rosie grew furious. This had to be Brenna¡¯s doing!


    ¡°I am having an allergic reaction to mango¡­¡± she managed to utter, the symptoms worsening rapidly as the redness and swelling extended to her shoulders and arms, causing intense itching.


    The household staff, caught off guard, quickly called for an ambnce. Desperate, Rosie cried, ¡°Help me¡­ Help me¡­¡± She was frustrated by her repeated failed attempts to undermine Brenna. Every time she tried to harm Brenna, she was the one who ended up suffering.


    Upstairs, Brenna remained in her room, indifferent to themotion below as the ambnce took Rosie away.


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    ¡°Finally, that nuisance is gone,¡± Brenna said coldly, showing no empathy toward Rosie.


    Ellie gave a dismissive snort beside her. ¡°She deserved it.¡±


    Meanwhile, in the ambnce, Rosie was fighting for her life but still managed to make a call. ¡°If you don¡¯t seed in embarrassing Brenna today, consider your career in the makeup industry over!¡±


    At three in the afternoon, the makeup artist arrived at the Harper family¡¯s residence.


    He was an eye-catching figure, d in a bright floral shirt, Bermuda shorts, and a trendy headscarf, radiating a sense of style. He confidently walked into the Harper family¡¯s house, his assistant following behind.


    ¡°Is Miss Harper here? I¡¯vee to do her makeup,¡± he said.


    Julia, who had just finished ironing Brenna¡¯s dress and delivering it to her, was surprised by his appearance. Although somewhat startled, she said politely, ¡°Are you the makeup artist? Miss Harper already has someone assigned for her makeup, so you¡¯re not needed today. But rest assured, you will still get paid.¡±


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    ?Chapter 380:


    The makeup artist was displeased to hear that. ¡°What do you mean?¡± He wasn¡¯t here just for makeup; Rosie had hired him for something more.


    Julia said, ¡°No offense, but you weren¡¯t hired by Mr. or Mrs. Harper, or by Miss Brenna Harper herself. You were invited here without her approval. I¡¯m sorry, but you¡¯ll have to leave.¡±


    Realizing the predicament, the makeup artist understood that Rosie had arranged this without the Harper family members¡¯ consent. Attempting to rectify the situation, he smiled, trying to persuade Julia, saying, ¡°Look, I¡¯m the top makeup artist in Shirie. My clients, many of whom are celebrities, often say my work is as transformative as stic surgery. I¡¯m sure Miss Harper would be thrilled with the results.¡±


    His demeanor remained professional as he added, ¡°Please, just speak with Miss Harper about this. I¡¯m confident I can make her stand out tonight.¡±


    Julia, slightly swayed by his pitch, decided to go upstairs to discuss it with Brenna.


    In the meantime, the makeup artist, Bingham Acosta, surveyed the Harper family¡¯svish living room. The room alone wasrger than his entire apartment and decorated with refined taste that spoke of luxury. His eyes caught a decorative oil painting on the wall, and he immediately recognized it as the work of a famous artist. That single piece was likely worth a fortune.


    A painting like that was as expensive as a house.


    The longer he looked around, the more he felt the stark contrast in their lives.


    And he thought of the Harper family¡¯s daughter celebrating her birthday today. She would be wearing a tiara valued at over a billion dors; he reflected on how he could never amass such wealth in his entire lifetime.


    Indeed, life seemed overwhelmingly unfair.


    In Brenna¡¯s bedroom on the third floor, she was absorbed in replying to Ethan¡¯s messages. She had just discovered that he had been in Norview for the past few days. Since today was her birthday, he had timed his return perfectly and aimed to arrive at the Harper family¡¯s residence by seven in the evening to celebrate with her.


    Julia stood nearby, patiently waiting for Brenna to finish texting before exining why she was here.


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    Yet, she couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that she hadn¡¯t approached the situation well, especially since Ellie was already prepared to do Brenna¡¯s makeup.


    Just then, Ellie¡¯s phone rang. She answered it quickly and responded after a brief pause, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll try to have the design draft ready within the hour for you to review.¡±


    When she hung up, she shrugged and said, ¡°Talk about perfect timing. I have a draft to finish, and the client¡¯s breathing down my neck. Since you already have a talented makeup artist here, you can let him do the makeup for you.¡±


    Brenna nced at her. ¡°Alright.¡± She turned to Julia. ¡°Julia, please bring the makeup artist up.¡±


    Julia nodded respectfully and left. Momentster, Bingham appeared, carrying two makeup cases.


    It was Bingham¡¯s first time meeting Brenna, and he was struck speechless by her beauty. Even without makeup, she was the kind of woman whomanded attention effortlessly. With the right touch of makeup, she would be nothing short of breathtaking.


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 Chapter 381

    ?Chapter 381:


    ¡°Miss Harper, your beauty is truly extraordinary,¡± Bingham said, his voice sincere. His gaze briefly drifted to the table, where the diamond tiara rumored to have cost a fortune rested as though it were something trivial.


    The tiara was encrusted with countless pure diamonds that shimmered brilliantly in the sunlight, disying a stunning reflection of luxury.


    Bingham couldn¡¯t take his eyes off the tiara for a full minute before he finally snapped back to reality.


    Meanwhile, Brenna pretended not to notice that, her eyes on her phone as she typed out quick replies to Ethan and her colleagues at the studio. In just two hours, they would all be arriving.


    ¡°Let¡¯s get started,¡± Brenna said, her voice calm, waiting for Bingham to regain hisposure.


    Snapping back to the moment, Bingham smiled sheepishly, set the cases on the table, and began unpacking. He opened the cases, pulled out a stand, and secured the makeup box onto it.


    When he looked at Brenna¡¯s wless skin, he couldn¡¯t help but say, ¡°Miss Harper, your skin is phenomenal. It¡¯s smooth and absolutely wless. I have never seen anything like it. Your features are symmetrical and exquisite. Truly impable.¡±


    Although he was doing his best to tter her, his gaze repeatedly wandered back to the tiara.


    Brenna wasn¡¯t especially fond of Bingham, finding his constant ttery a bit annoying.


    She paid him little attention, offering only the asional half-hearted reply to his attempts at conversation.


    Bingham¡¯s skill with makeup was undeniable. Under his expert hands, Brenna¡¯s beauty was elevated even further, and her hair was styled into a sophisticated updo.


    Bingham gently lifted the tiara from the table and turned to Brenna. ¡°Miss Harper, shall I ce the crown on you now?¡±


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    Brenna gave a faint nod, barely looking up.


    Bingham had already noticed that the surveince cameras were only in the living room and kitchen, not in the bedroom. The other girl in the room was too absorbed in adjusting a design draft on herputer to pay him any attention.


    Brenna was also preupied, her attention fixed on replying to work messages on her phone.


    Seizing the moment, Bingham swiftly opened a ck box from his case and retrieved a nearly identical tiara. With practiced ease, he swapped the imitation for the authentic diamond tiara, putting the genuine one securely inside the ck box.


    He was certain no one had seen him and was confident his actions had been smooth.


    When he turned back, Brenna remained engrossed in her phone, her fingers flying across the screen.


    Letting out a relieved breath, he steadied himself. As long as no one saw him doing that, everything would be fine.


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    Withposed ease, he ced the fake tiara on Brenna¡¯s head.


    The imitation was a wless replica, identical in every way except for one crucial detail. The diamonds were nothing more than high-quality ss. But without a microscope, even an expert would struggle to tell the difference.


    If he managed to deliver the real diamond tiara to Rosie, he would walk away with a reward of five hundred thousand.


    This was his first time doing something like this, and the pressure made his hands tremble.


    As he adjusted the tiara, he identally tugged on Brenna¡¯s hair.


    Brenna winced in pain.


    Bingham quickly apologized, ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, Miss Harper. I didn¡¯t mean to hurt you.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s voice remained calm. ¡°It¡¯s alright. By the way, my cousin ising overter. She heard you are here and would like you to do her makeup. Could you stay here a little longer?¡±


    Bingham hesitated, reluctant to stay any longer. The more time he spent there, the greater the risk of the tiara swap being discovered.


    ¡°Well¡­ You only paid for one person¡¯s service,¡± he said.


    Brenna remained unfazed. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. You will get paid for your extra service.¡±


    Still trying to refuse, Bingham said, ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I have other appointmentster. I¡¯m really pressed for time.¡±


    Brenna nced up at him, catching the unease in his posture. His eyes darted nervously as he avoided her gaze.


    ncing at his watch, Bingham added anxiously, ¡°Miss Harper, I really have to go now.¡±


    ¡°Alright, I won¡¯t keep you any longer,¡± Brenna replied politely.


    Bingham gathered his things and left as quickly as possible.


    Discover what¡¯s new on g¦Á?¦Ç¦Òv??ls


    At the entrance, Bingham offered a polite smile to Julia, who had stepped outside to bid him farewell. They shook hands, and then he climbed into the car with his assistant.


    The assistant appeared even more nervous than Bingham, worrying over the possibility of getting caught by the Harper family.


    As soon as they were safely inside the car and had driven a bit, the assistant exhaled deeply and patted his chest. ¡°Bingham, that was terrifying. I was really worried we¡¯d be caught and end up in jail.¡±


    Bingham, although previously anxious, now felt relieved. ¡°She is attractive but not cautious at all. What a fool!¡±


    He took out his phone and dialed Rosie. ¡°Rosie, I¡¯ve got it.¡±


    On the third floor of the Harper family¡¯s house, Ellie and Brenna shared a nce that said they both understood the situation.


    Ellie asked, ¡°Who do you think was behind him? Rosie or Viper?¡±


    At that moment, Ellie received a message saying the order no longer needed to be rushed and could be submitted ording to the original schedule.


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 Chapter 383

    ?Chapter 383:


    She showed the message to Brenna. ¡°Look at this. All these plots for a diamond tiara, and I got pulled into it, too. I was ready to do your makeup, and then, out of nowhere, they rushed the order, and Bingham turned up exactly when he was needed. Doesn¡¯t that seem a bit too orchestrated?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s face grew cold. ¡°It¡¯s definitely orchestrated, but they won¡¯t stop trying if they fail. Ever since I received that crown, three different groups have tried to infiltrate our home, all targeting it.¡±


    Ellie¡¯s expression showed concern. ¡°Is there some secret about this crown?¡±


    Brenna shook her head dismissively. ¡°I¡¯m not aware of any secrets.¡±


    Just then, Julia walked in, clearly unhappy. ¡°Miss Harper, are we just going to let them walk away like that?¡±


    Brenna responded calmly, ¡°Let him go. I¡¯ve already arranged for someone to tail him and uncover who¡¯s really behind this.¡±


    Julia said, ¡°But Miss Harper, we know Bingham is a thief, and yet we let him leave. That seems too lenient. Shouldn¡¯t we teach him a lesson?¡± She gripped her phone nervously. ¡°Should I call the police? That diamond tiara is valued at 1.3 billion!¡±


    Brenna let out a softugh. ¡°I didn¡¯t let him seed in stealing the tiara.¡±


    Ellie then opened a drawer and retrieved a tiara.


    Julia realized that the tiara from the drawer was authentic. She sighed in relief. ¡°I was terrified he had actually taken it. I know that no matter how wealthy you are, you wouldn¡¯t y around with something worth 1.3 billion, especially considering it was given to you by Mr. Mitchell.¡±


    Brenna nodded and instructed, ¡°Continue with your tasks. Our guests will be returning shortly.¡±


    At that moment, car horns sounded from the yard. Brenna approached the window and looked down. Shepard, Ernst, and Dalton were arriving together, with Giselle following in her own car.


    Upstairs, Patrick, who had been napping, woke up, and he made his way downstairs with Brenna and Ellie.


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    Meanwhile, at the hospital, Rosie had just been moved out of the emergency room.


    In her hospital room stood Viper, Valeria, and Bingham.


    Valeria, leaning casually against Viper, her fiery red lips and captivating presence noticeable, eyed the box in Bingham¡¯s hand. Bingham, admiring Valeria¡¯s beauty from a distance, avoided staring too long due to Viper¡¯s intimidating presence.


    He quickly opened the box for Rosie to see.


    Rosie, not knowing the item was a fake, nced at it briefly before passing the ck box to Viper. ¡°This is what you asked for.¡±


    Viper inspected the tiara within the box, affirming that the diamonds were genuine and the setting was of solid gold. He nodded, satisfied.


    Valeria, with a dismissive gesture, tossed a ck bag to the floor and kicked it towards Bingham. ¡°Get out!¡±


    Bingham was worried they might harm him. He was unaware of Viper¡¯s true identity but could sense his dangerous nature. He grabbed the bag of money and quickly left.


    Rosie, infuriated by being outsmarted by Brenna again, clenched her teeth. ¡°I¡¯ve done you a big favor. Remember your promise to me.¡±


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 Chapter 384

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    Valeria replied, ¡°Of course.¡±


    She looked down on Rosie. In her view, Rosie was incapable, failing to deal with a woman.


    She considered it demeaning to coborate with someone so ipetent.


    She left with Viper, checking the tiara again to ensure its authenticity, skeptical of receiving anything genuine from someone as ineffective as Rosie.


    Rachael walked in, observing Rosie¡¯s swollen form, still connected to an IV drip. Although Rosie was no longer in immediate danger, the swelling remained; it was expected to subside within the hour. Rachael set down clothes she had brought next to the bed, sighed deeply, and looked at Rosie with profound sympathy.


    She said, ¡°Miss Harper, once you recover, will you return to the Harper family¡¯s residence? After all you¡¯ve endured, you must seek revenge.¡±


    As the evening sun set around six, guests started to arrive in session. Besides the many colleagues from Brenna¡¯s two studios, the gathering was small¡ªjust Ableson¡¯s family and three of Giselle¡¯s close friends, who brought their children along.


    The three of Giselle¡¯s friends were all aplished women holding prominent positions, which Brenna noticed immediately.


    ¡°This is Mrs. Padi, an engineer at the National Research Institute. Her daughter, Greta, is attending a prestigious university,¡± Giselle said with a warm smile as she introduced them to Brenna.


    Brenna found herself liking Giselle¡¯s friend. Danika Padi was no ordinary guest; her attire was ssy, and she wore elegant sses, giving Brenna a measured smile that hinted at her friendly nature.


    ¡°Hello, Mrs. Padi, Miss Padi. Nice to meet you both,¡± Brenna said with a weing smile.


    Giselle was pleasantly surprised by her daughter¡¯s warm reception, as Brenna usually maintained a reserved demeanor.


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    Greta Padi, close in age to Brenna, dressed modestly and avoided fashionable trends. When she saw how stunning Brenna looked, her expression soured a little.


    Danika, experienced from her tenure at the National Research Institute, had encountered many talented individuals. She regarded Brenna with respect. ¡°I saw your recent lecture for the Harper Group online; you were impressive, particrly in your discussion on intelligent driving and futuristic flying cars. Our institute even organized a seminar on those topics after your lecture. The director is so impressed by you that he is considering inviting you to speak at the National Research Institute.¡±


    Brenna was taken aback by thepliment, feeling ttered. The National Research Institute¡¯s experts were esteemed in the academic world; she believed she wasn¡¯t worthy of giving a lecture to them.


    Greta couldn¡¯t help but feel a flicker of difort as she took in Brenna¡¯s aplishments. She had always stood out among her peers, nearlypleting her master¡¯s degree at just twenty-one, while many of her age were still working through their undergraduate programs. Attending one of the country¡¯s most elite universities had long given her a quiet confidence, a sense of being a step ahead.


    But today, encountering someone whose aplishments far outshone her own left her displeased. A part of her believed Brenna had embellished her credentials just a little too much.


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 Chapter 385

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    Greta said, ¡°Mom, she has only graduated for a few years. Maybe everything from her lecture came straight from her college textbooks? The National Research Institute already has many top-tier graduates from international universities.¡±


    Brenna chose not to defend her credentials. ustomed to skepticism and underestimation, she had faced many rumors that she had advanced her career by currying favor with mentors.


    She simply offered a smile, choosing to remain silent.


    Danika was a wise woman. After watching Brenna¡¯s lecture, she recognized its excellence. Casting a stern look at her daughter, she said, ¡°That¡¯s not true. Brenna is indeed exceptional.¡±


    She then turned to Brenna with genuine interest as she said, ¡°Brenna, when might you have some free time? How about next Monday? Our director is keen to meet someone of your caliber and would be thrilled to have you give a lecture at the National Research Institute.¡±


    Brenna sensed the sincerity in the invitation¡ªit wasn¡¯t just a casual suggestion.


    She responded with a courteous smile, ¡°I¡¯ll consider it.¡±


    Danika interpreted Brenna¡¯s polite ¡°I¡¯ll consider it¡± as a sign of hesitance.


    Regardless of Brenna¡¯s actual willingness about the matter, Danika took the opportunity to add her on WhatsApp, aiming to keep in touch.


    Giselle then moved on to introduce another friend. ¡°This is Mrs. Richardson, who works at the stock exchange. This is her daughter, Lilith, who is studying finance.¡±


    Naya Richardson was elegantly dressed, her slender wrist adorned with an expensive bracelet, a gold ne around her neck. Her navy blue dress was clearly from a high-end brand. She eximed with enthusiasm, ¡°Giselle, your daughter is truly stunning.¡±


    Brenna offered a polite greeting to her. She then noticed Lilith Richardson¡¯s aloofness; she was wearing headphones and focused on her phone, showing no interest in talking to her.


    Brenna simply offered her a polite smile and moved on. Normally, she would just ignore someone like that. But today, she was being extra polite.


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    Giselle introduced another friend. ¡°And this is Mrs. Rodriguez, who works in customs.¡±


    Brenna observed that Marceline Rodriguez had arrived alone and appeared serious. This prompted Brenna to moderate her approach, only saying, ¡°Hello, Mrs. Rodriguez.¡±


    Suddenly, a familiar voice called out from the doorway, ¡°Brenna!¡±


    Brenna turned to see Ethan, whom she hadn¡¯t seen in several days. He was still dressed in his usual ck suit, but his demeanor was unusually upbeat today. He wore a smile and was holding a bag.


    ¡°Happy Birthday!¡± he eximed, handing Brenna the bag, his eyes gleaming with anticipation.


    Brenna was not surprised by his gesture. She looked inside the bag to find a white handbag, a limited edition that she had only seen in magazines previously.


    ¡°Thank you; I love it,¡± she said to Ethan.


    Ethan, noticing the diamond tiara on her head, smiled with satisfaction. ¡°You look beautiful.¡±


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 Chapter 386

    ?Chapter 386:


    Brenna couldn¡¯t help but notice that both Greta and Lilith were quite captivated by Ethan. They seemed unable to look away from him, particrly Greta, who stared at him intently for a prolonged period. Lilith, though briefly intrigued, soon reverted to focusing on her phone.


    Greta leaned towards her mother and whispered, ¡°Mom, I¡¯m going to talk to Brenna and her friend now.¡±


    Danika offered a small nod, deliberately ignoring the admiration shining in her daughter¡¯s eyes. She knew her daughter all too well¡ªher expectations were so high that even the brightest minds at the National Research Institute rarely caught her attention.


    So now that someone had finally caught her daughter¡¯s eye, she naturally supported her daughter taking the initiative.


    ¡°Go ahead,¡± she said with a nod.


    Greta gave a small smile and approached Brenna, asking politely, ¡°Brenna, would you introduce us?¡±


    Ethan, setting aside his usually rare smile, stood next to Brenna and extended his arm.


    Brenna linked her arm with his and introduced him to Greta. ¡°This is Ethan, my boyfriend.¡±


    Greta¡¯s smile broadened as she reached out to shake Ethan¡¯s hand, saying, ¡°I¡¯m Greta, a graduate student at Laguna Bay University. It¡¯s nice to meet you. I¡¯ve seen you on financial talk shows before. You¡¯re quite a talented entrepreneur, and I really admire that.¡±


    It was her first time expressing interest in a man, and she felt Ethan was a match for her in terms of excellence.


    She was confident in her looks, education, and family background, feeling she was better than Brenna in every way.


    She waited expectantly for Ethan¡¯s enthusiastic response.


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    However, Ethan¡¯s reaction was neutral at best. He gave her hand a brief shake and then let go, his demeanor distant.


    Greta experienced a twinge of disappointment, unustomed to such a dismissive reaction.


    The disappointment flickered briefly before she brushed it aside. She reassured herself that it made sense for someone as remarkable as Ethan to be unimpressed by her; he had surely crossed paths with countless brilliant individuals before. Still, she held onto the hope that with time and more chances to connect, he woulde to recognize that she was exceptional.


    Romance wasn¡¯t something Brenna paid much attention to, but when it came to reading people, her instincts were sharp. She had already picked up on the way Greta looked at Ethan¡ªwith clear admiration in her eyes.


    It made sense. Ethan was impressive in many ways¡ªhis looks, capabilities, and background. It was normal that many women liked him.


    ¡°Happy birthday, boss!¡±


    ¡°Happy birthday, Brenna!¡±


    Brenna¡¯s colleagues from the studio arrived, led by Thiago, Joe, and Tommy. They were a crowd of casually dressed young people.


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 Chapter 387

    ?Chapter 387:


    Each one warmly greeted Brenna.


    ¡°Hello, everyone.¡±


    Brenna, glowing with confidence, introduced her colleagues from the studio to Giselle, Shepard, and her two brothers. Thiago, Joe, and Tommy exchanged handshakes and pleasantries with the Harper family members.


    Ernst was particrly taken aback. He recognized several of Brenna¡¯s colleagues as finance professionals he knew, individuals who had contributed to internationally renowned journals. These were highly respected figures he had once tried to hire, only to be rejected. He was surprised to find them employed by Brenna.


    Greta was displeased. She recognized five of her senior schoolmates among those greeting Brenna, individuals who were exceptionally gifted and had consistently excelled academically, earning national and university schrships and receiving multiple job offers. Their level of achievement was something she felt she couldn¡¯t match, not even in ten years.


    And yet, here they were, working for Brenna.


    What were they thinking?


    She watched them, her brow furrowed in confusion.


    How had Brenna managed to attract such remarkable talents to her team? Was Brenna really that extraordinary? Greta¡¯s envy deepened. She was astounded by Brenna¡¯s ability to assemble such a capable team at such a young age.


    She listened intently as Brenna introduced everyone on her team¡ªnot just the heads of the studios but even the regr employees¡ªeach with a r¨¦sum¨¦ more impressive than thest.


    With every word, Greta¡¯s envy grew. Brenna wasn¡¯t just exceptional; she was everything Greta dreamed of bing.


    Once Brenna finished introducing everyone and her colleagues began to mingle, Greta saw an opening and walked over to her. Though the words didn¡¯te easily, she still managed apliment. ¡°You¡¯re amazing. Could we exchange contact information?¡±


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    Brenna agreed without hesitation since she admired Greta¡¯s talent. Just as Greta hoped to engage further with Brenna, Ethan escorted Brenna upstairs.


    Lilith then walked to Greta, leading her to the dessert area in the yard. She showed Greta her phone and said, ¡°Did you see the tiara on Brenna¡¯s head? It is adorned with high-quality diamonds and was purchased at an auction for 1.3 billion. Talk about being rich.¡±


    Greta¡¯s face darkened. She had admired the tiara¡¯s beauty earlier but had not grasped its staggering price.


    She usually considered garments and essories priced in the thousands to be luxurious. Compared to Brenna, she felt quite ordinary. She thought that life was so unfair.


    Greta felt a sharp sting of bitterness in her chest, silently resenting the unfairness of fate.


    On the other hand, Lilith didn¡¯t feel anything. Neither envy nor jealousy clouded her mind. However, she could tell something was off with Greta. The two had always been close, their contrasting personalitiesplementing each other.


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 Chapter 388

    ?Chapter 388:


    ¡°Are you interested in Brenna¡¯s boyfriend?¡± Lilith asked Greta.


    Greta huffed, folding her arms in frustration. ¡°Even though I am interested in him, there¡¯s nothing I could do about it. How can I possibly measure up to Brenna when ites to family background and talent?¡±


    Lilith grabbed her wrist and tugged her toward the courtyard. ¡°Come on, let¡¯s get something to eat. I heard the Harper family brought top-tier chefs from luxury hotels, and the ingredients are from overseas. It would be a waste not to try the food.¡±


    Greta followed Lilith, looking in a bad mood. In the western corner of the courtyard, a brand-new barbecue station had been set up, with people gathered around, happily skewering their food and handing it over to the cook. Within minutes, the skewers were sizzling on the grill.


    The mouthwatering aroma of the barbecue drifted through the air, spreading in every direction.


    Standing at the bottom of the steps, Greta and Lilith nced back and forth at the tempting dishes, unable to make up their minds. Finally, they chose to have ice cream cake first and then barbecue.


    Greta kept sneaking nces toward the doorway, but Ethan was nowhere to be seen. She had hoped for a chance to talk to him more or maybe even exchange contact details with him.


    But more than thirty minutes had passed, and there was still no sign of Ethan. A sinking feeling crept in as Greta began to wonder if she would ever see him again. It was rare for her to like someone. She had just taken an interest in Ethan, only to realize they were from different worlds.


    If she wanted to get close to Ethan, it seemed she could only do that through Brenna.


    Lilith had noticed her distraction a while ago but chose not to say anything about it, focusing instead on the cakes.


    The courtyard was lined with tables overflowing with exquisite dishes. As her disappointment grew with every minute Ethan failed to appear, Greta finally let her frustration slip. ¡°Wasn¡¯t Brenna raised in an ordinary family? How did she turn out so exceptional? Usually, someone with that kind of sess would have had a lot of resources and support from their family. Her upbringing was pretty average. There is no way she should be this exceptional.¡±


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    Lilith nodded. ¡°Yeah, but she is. And on top of all that, she now has a powerful family and a boyfriend who is even more impressive. She is practically living the dream.¡±


    Hearing this made Greta feel more jealous. Holding a slice of strawberry cake, she tilted her head and asked, ¡°So, what do you think I should do to get Mr. Mitchell¡¯s attention?¡±


    Although Lilith wasn¡¯t interested in Ethan, she believed she knew what to do. ¡°You will have to take the roundabout approach.¡± Greta and Lilith exchanged a quiet, knowing smile, their unspoken understanding evident.


    Greta¡¯s mood lifted noticeably. It felt good to know her friend supported her idea. ¡°Tell me, don¡¯t you think Brenna¡¯s whole image is just something the Harper family carefully crafted? She looks like she is our age. There¡¯s no way she could¡¯ve aplished that much on her own already. Even the content she lectures on at the Harper Group feels like someone else prepared it. She probably just rehearsed it enough to make it sound like it was from her. Honestly, I don¡¯t think she is that smart.¡±


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 Chapter 389

    ?Chapter 389:


    Lilith was also notpletely convinced. It was hard to believe anyone could be that talented.


    She said, ¡°Maybe. With the Harper Group¡¯s resources and connections, it wouldn¡¯t be impossible.¡±


    Greta nodded enthusiastically. ¡°Exactly. From what she said in her lectures, she has been working for about five years and has a master¡¯s degree. That means she must have graduated at eighteen. Come on, that¡¯s unbelievable. I think she is just the product of the Harper family¡¯s carefully crafted image.¡±


    Her voice lowered, her words dripping with doubt as she shared her thoughts with Lilith. ¡°I heard her adoptive parents im she never even finished elementary school. I think there¡¯s some truth to that. Brenna¡¯s current image must have been crafted by the Harper family. Think about it. Everyone in the Harper family is exceptional. The second child is a top-tier celebrity, the eldest graduated from a world-renowned business school, and even Mrs. Harper is a university professor. If¡ª


    ¡°They had a daughter who never made it past elementary school¡ªthat¡¯d be a huge hit to their reputation.¡±


    ¡°You are talking nonsense!¡± A sharp voice suddenly cut through the air, startling Greta.


    She spun around to see a strikingly handsome little boy, looking about six, standing beside a well-dressed man in a suit.


    The man¡¯s eyes were cold and unfriendly as they locked onto her.


    Thiago wiped his hands with a napkin before speaking. ¡°If you have any questions about Brenna, you should ask her directly. Don¡¯t go gossiping behind her back. She is truly talented.¡±


    Lilith retorted, ¡°Eavesdropping on people isn¡¯t exactly polite.¡±


    With a dismissive snort, she added, ¡°Oh, now I remember. You are Brenna¡¯s studio partner. Of course, you would defend her.¡±


    Thiago reached into his jacket pocket, pulled out a business card, and handed it to Lilith. ¡°It¡¯s better not to speak so carelessly in the future.¡±


    Fresh chapters live g?ln¦Ò¦Íe?s?c?m


    Lilith nced at the card, then back at him. ¡°Thiago Moreno? I¡¯ll remember you.¡±


    Seeing her like this, Thiago let out a small sigh and exined, ¡°It¡¯s true that Brenna didn¡¯t finish elementary school. When she was living with the Barrett family, she started sketching design ideas at home after fourth grade. She taught herself the material for middle and high school. She is truly smart and managed to get into a top university abroad.¡±


    ¡°Indeed, Greta. Miss Harper¡¯s sess isn¡¯t solely due to her family¡¯s support,¡± a young and handsome man suddenly said.


    Greta turned toward the speaker. It was Phillip Robles, the renowned academic talent from Laguna Bay University. She had always admired him. He was a person who could have joined a prestigiouspany but instead chose to work at Brenna¡¯s studio. She didn¡¯t understand him.


    She quickly greeted Phillip.


    Phillip¡¯s lips curved into a faint smile as he continued, ¡°Spend more time around Miss Harper, and you will realize she¡¯s far more than just a gifted automobile designer.¡±


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 Chapter 390

    ?Chapter 390:


    Greta nodded and said reluctantly, ¡°Alright. I already exchanged contact information with Miss Harper. I really do want to be friends with her.¡±


    She felt upset being criticized so openly, but she kept her demeanor polite and kind. She forced herself to listen attentively to thepliments about Brenna.


    Thiago¡¯s praise for Brenna was one thing, but hearing the same praise from the people she looked up to as academic role models was different. She was unable to ept this.


    Was Brenna truly that impressive?


    She couldn¡¯t bear the thought of a woman being both more talented and more beautiful than she was.


    She struggled to keep her smile in ce.


    ¡°Miss Harper isn¡¯t just brilliant. She is also stunning and genuinely kind-hearted¡­¡±


    She had heard so manypliments about Brenna today that it was starting to make her feel sick.


    Lilith nodded eagerly while munching away with obvious delight, seeing nothing wrong with all thepliments being showered on Brenna.


    After all, these people worked for Brenna, and it was natural that they praised their boss.


    ¡°Miss Harper¡­¡± A distinct voice sliced through the chatter, drawing every gaze toward the entrance, where a couple had just arrived.


    The man was dressed in a crisp, white tailored suit that clung to his tall frame, exuding sharp elegance. Clinging to his arm was a sultry woman in a tight, red mini-dress. Her voluminous curls cascaded over her shoulders, her lips painted a bold, fiery red. Her curvaceous figure turned heads the moment she stepped in.


    However, what grabbed everyone¡¯s attention wasn¡¯t just theirmanding presence but the diamond tiara the woman wore. It looked exactly like the one Brenna had.


    Valeria ran her fingers over the diamond tiara resting on her head, a gestureced with unmistakable provocation.


    Feel the thrill at g aln  ov el s .


    Beside her, Viper stood rxed, hands tucked into his pockets, a cigarette dangling from his lips. Behind them, a dozen bodyguards in sleek ck suits and dark sunsses followed in tight formation, adding to the theatrics of their grand entrance.


    Clearly startled, the Harper family members hurried out of the house to see them.


    Whispers began to ripple through the crowd like a wave.


    ¡°How can the tiaras be so identical?¡±


    ¡°One of them has to be fake.¡±


    When Brenna and Ethan stepped outside, they caught wind of the murmurs swirling through the crowd. Without a word, the two aligned themselves beside the Harper family, their gazes fixed on Viper and Valeria.


    ¡°It¡¯s rare for you to attend my birthday party, Viper. Wee,¡± Brenna said coolly, her eyesnding on the diamond tiara atop Valeria¡¯s head. Wasn¡¯t that the replica Bingham had stolen from her?


    Ethan narrowed his eyes, also recognizing the tiara instantly. It was the custom replica he¡¯dmissioned himself. Crafted from real diamonds and gold, it had cost him millions and matched the original to thest detail.


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 Chapter 391

    ?Chapter 391:


    At that moment, he finally realized who was behind the series of thefts at the Harper family¡¯s estate.


    ¡°Happy birthday,¡± Viper said, retrieving a sleek ck box from the hands of a suited man behind him and opening it in front of Brenna. A collective gasp echoed as everyone saw whaty inside the box, and their opinion of Viper quickly worsened.


    It was Brenna¡¯s birthday today, yet he brought her a pendant in the shape of a ck coffin.


    It was really rude.


    The Harper family bristled with anger. Shepard and Ernst knew Viper¡¯s reputation well. As the infamous underworld boss of Shirie, Viper was known for his ruthlessness. No one caught in his web ever escaped unscathed.


    Despite their tight security and the swarm of bodyguards on-site, they couldn¡¯t keep their guard up every day. They were genuinely fearful of offending Viper.


    Stepping forward, Shepard and Ernst positioned themselves protectively in front of the other family members. Shepard asked him, ¡°What brings you here today, Viper?¡±


    Ethan and Brenna moved to stand beside them, their expressions as cold as ice as they fixed their eyes on Viper and Valeria.


    Without a word, Ethan picked up the coffin pendant, tossed it to the ground, and crushed it beneath his polished shoe.


    Viper¡¯s face darkened, clearly displeased. The destruction of his gift, especially one he had gone to great lengths to acquire, did not sit well with him, even though he had brought the gift specifically to upset Brenna.


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell, this was bought in Norview. It is worth millions. Is this how you treat the gift I brought?¡± he said.


    Brenna didn¡¯t waste her breath on Viper. ¡°Enough talk. If you have nothing else to say, leave.¡±


    Valeria let out a mockingugh, her voiceced with scorn. ¡°Miss Harper, with the Harper family¡¯s wealth, how could they let you wear a fake tiara? Isn¡¯t that embarrassing?¡±


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    Brenna¡¯s gaze hardened, her tone colder than ever. ¡°It¡¯s still unclear whose tiara is the fake. I saw Bingham steal that replica from me. Some people came here three times and still couldn¡¯t get what they wanted, so they resorted to sending in a foolish makeup artist.¡±


    Viper¡¯s and Valeria¡¯s expressions immediately changed when they realized they had been tricked.


    Valeria¡¯s eyes shed with fury. ¡°Impossible! I had it appraised. The diamonds and the gold of my tiara are real!¡±


    Ethan¡¯s lips curled into a sneer. ¡°So what? That doesn¡¯t mean the tiara was the real deal. I never imagined Viper would let his woman wear a replica. Is he really so broke that he can¡¯t afford the real thing?¡±


    Even now, neither Ethan nor Brenna could understand why Viper and Valeria were so determined to get the diamond tiara. What secret did it hold that made them go to such lengths to get it?


    Both Viper and Valeria were consumed by anger, but Viper felt it the most. His eyes hardened with fury as his hand slowly moved toward his belt, fighting the overwhelming urge to end Brenna¡¯s and Ethan¡¯s lives on the spot.


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 Chapter 392

    ?Chapter 392:


    ¡°I dare you to say that again,¡± Viper¡¯s voice growled, deep and threatening. For years, he had ruled over Shirie, earning the respect of the city¡¯s most powerful people. No one had ever dared to insult him like that, especially not with so many people around.


    Today was undoubtedly the most humiliating day of his life.


    Ethan responded with a disdainful snort, ¡°I can say it many times, and the truth remains the same. Viper, I can¡¯t believe you¡¯ve fallen so low, using a fake tiara, and a stolen one at that.¡±


    Ernst quickly said, ¡°Over and over, you¡¯ve sent your goons to infiltrate my house, but you¡¯ve never found the real thing. You¡¯re not as impressive as you believe, Viper. Let me warn you¡ªif you dare do something like that again, I¡¯ll end you once and for all.¡±


    At that moment, Viper¡¯s hand was already on his gun when he spotted a figure on a nearby rooftop. A sniper rifle aimed at him. A shiver of fear ran through him. He realized that if he made a move, he probably wouldn¡¯t even have time to draw his gun before he was shot.


    It drove him mad to see Brenna so calm. Her expression was nothing like what he had expected. Any other woman would have been terrified in such a tense situation.


    Ernst realized that Viper was going for his gun.


    Driven by instinct, he moved to stand before Brenna to shield her. How could he ever look anyone in the eye if he allowed his sister to be hurt while under his care? Wouldn¡¯t that suggest anyone could walk all over the Harper family?


    Ethan also wanted to protect Brenna. He took his position in front of her, preparing himself for a potentially lethal confrontation with Viper, his hand ready to pull out his gun.


    Brenna stood silently behind the two men. She hadplete trust in their ability to protect her.


    Greta watched the scene in awe, struggling to catch her breath. A deep longing filled her as she envied Brenna, so deeply loved and protected by both her brother and her boyfriend.


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    Viper, ever sharp, quickly realized that Ethan was also carrying a gun. With a sly chuckle, he pulled his hand back and changed his approach. ¡°When ites to diamonds and gold, it¡¯s all just little things women love. Why make such a big deal out of it? I¡¯m here for Miss Harper¡¯s birthday celebration. Is this really the kind of wee the Harper family offers? Aren¡¯t you going to invite me into the house?¡±


    Ethan and Ernst rxed a little, tension fading from their expressions. Ernst studied Viper¡¯s behavior with suspicion, knowing that his reasons for being there had nothing to do with celebrating Brenna¡¯s birthday. His voicecked any trace of warmth as he said, ¡°You¡¯ve brought all these bodyguards to a birthday party? To anyone who doesn¡¯t know better, it looks more like you¡¯re here to cause trouble than to celebrate.¡±


    Without hesitation, Viper gestured, and his bodyguards, dressed in ck, skillfully left the Harper family estate, vanishing so swiftly that it was as though they had never been there.


    Ethan looked at the diamond tiara on Valeria¡¯s head, and his eyes narrowed in disapproval. He scoffed, ¡°I didn¡¯t know you had a habit of stealing. Can¡¯t you afford a simple diamond tiara? Sending people to take it, Viper, that¡¯s hardly honorable.¡±


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 Chapter 393

    ?Chapter 393:


    Viper¡¯s face darkened, his true intentions bing obvious. His goal was to disrupt the event and force Ethan and Brenna into handing over the real Orwall Queen¡¯s diamond tiara.


    Despite Viper¡¯s careful nning, the Harper family was ready. They were armed, and their sniper had their sight set on Viper. Otherwise, even if Ernst and Ethan had guns, Viper was still confident he could take down the Harper family with his bodyguards.


    Brenna was being protected, and she certainly wasn¡¯t as simple as she appeared.


    The revtion left Viper feeling utterly frustrated.


    He nced at Valeria, who shifted ufortably beside him. Earlier, despite her expertise in gems, she had failed to recognize that the Orwall Queen¡¯s diamond tiara they had gotten was a counterfeit and had mistakenly confirmed its authenticity.


    It was her idea to wear the tiara to the Harper family and cause trouble.


    Now that she realized her mistake, fear of the consequences froze her in ce.


    ¡°Viper¡­¡± she murmured, fully aware of the punishment she would be facing.


    With a grunt, Viper waved her off angrily, saying, ¡°Get out of my sight!¡±


    Ernst and Ethan then escorted Viper toward the lounge on the house¡¯s fourth floor.


    Outside, the party continued as if nothing had happened.


    Greta was about to pull Lilith toward Brenna to invite her to join them for a meal when a woman in a chic ck dress approached Brenna first and said, ¡°Miss Harper, may I have a word with you?¡±


    Brenna recognized the woman. She was Sabine, who had been close to Ernst all evening, even stepping in to protect him during his confrontation with Viper. Sabine¡¯s affection for Ernst was obvious, and Brenna couldn¡¯t help but admire her for the genuine love she had for him.


    Brenna also noticed that the daughters of her mother¡¯s friends didn¡¯t seem the least bit interested in Ernst. None of them had spared him even a nce. That alone told her her mother¡¯s efforts had likely been in vain.


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    While the Harper family estate buzzed with activity, Brenna led Sabine up to her room on the third floor to talk.


    As soon as they stepped inside, she saw the shift. The friendly smile Sabine had worn downstairs was gone, reced by a frosty look.


    Her demeanor changedpletely.


    Brenna had no intention of wasting warmth on someone who didn¡¯t bother to hide her coldness. She leaned against the desk and said, ¡°What do you want? Just say it.¡±


    Sabine¡¯s expression shifted again. Now, she seemed angry. ¡°Miss Harper, I¡¯ve just realized that Ernst is very protective of you.¡±


    Brenna raised an eyebrow. ¡°What, are you jealous?¡±


    Sabine scoffed, ¡°We¡¯re not the same. Why would I be jealous? I think you¡¯re nothing but trouble. You shouldn¡¯t havee back to the Harper family.¡±


    Brenna almostughed. This woman wasn¡¯t even part of the Harper family yet but was already sticking her nose in her family¡¯s affairs.


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 Chapter 394

    ?Chapter 394:


    ¡°How exactly am I trouble? Looks to me like the Harper family¡¯s doing just fine now,¡± Brenna said.


    Sabine¡¯s temper red. ¡°Don¡¯t y dumb. You know what you did. Ernst was supposed to be the CEO of the Harper Group. When the chairman steps down after a few years, thepany will be his. But because of some ridiculous bet with you, he got forced out of thepany. This is all your fault. Ernst is a very capable person. But just because he doesn¡¯t like you, he¡¯s being kicked out of thepany.¡±


    She let out a sharp snort, her eyes cold with resentment. In her eyes, Brenna had ruined everything for her. She had been one step away from bing the CEO¡¯s wife, the future wealthiest woman in all of Shirie. But that dream had shattered because of¡­


    What stung even more was how fiercely Ernst had defended Brenna just now.


    Brenna had dragged herself into some mess with a local crime boss, and somehow, she had dragged Ernst into the matter as well. It was ridiculous. At this rate, the Harper family would soon be ruined because of her!


    ¡°What are you even talking about?¡± Brenna narrowed her eyes, realizing that Sabine was ambitious and greedy. ¡°Who do you think you are? What happens in my family is none of your business.¡±


    Sabine¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°I¡¯m about to marry your brother. I¡¯m going to be part of the Harper family soon, and I won¡¯t stand by while you destroy my husband¡¯s future. If you have even a shred of decency, you¡¯ll leave the Harper family. And before you do, cancel that ridiculous bet and let your brother take back his position as the CEO of the Harper Group. Bring Rosie back too. What gives you the right to push people out of thepany the moment you return?¡±


    Brennaughed. ¡°And who do you think you are? You¡¯re not even part of the Harper family yet, and you already want to meddle in our affairs. You are so full of yourself. And do you really think you can be part of the Harper family?¡±


    Now it all made sense to Brenna. No wonder her mother didn¡¯t like Sabine. This woman was possessive to a fault. She didn¡¯t really love Ernst; she was after his wealth and status.


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    ¡°Let me make something clear. As long as I¡¯m here, you¡¯ll never be my sister-inw,¡± Brenna said firmly. ¡°Whatever happens in the Harper family has nothing to do with you. And if you were paying attention, you¡¯d have noticed Ernst is already siding with me.¡±


    Sabine shot daggers at Brenna and said, ¡°Ernst still listens to me.¡±


    As long as Ernst listened to her, the Harper Group would eventually be hers.


    She was certain of that.


    ¡°Really?¡± Brenna scoffed, wondering where Sabine got her confidence from.


    Sabine tilted her chin upward. With eyes filled with disdain, she looked at the tiara on Brenna¡¯s head. ¡°You¡¯re nothing more than someone riding on the Harper family¡¯s coattails. Do you even know what people say about you?¡±


    Brenna didn¡¯t bother replying. She could already guess Sabine had nothing worthwhile to offer. So she just watched silently as Sabine spoke.


    Sabine rolled her eyes, clearly unimpressed by the tiara on Brenna¡¯s head.


    ¡°You¡¯re just using your looks and charm to sway Mr. and Mrs. Harper. That¡¯s all. Mr. Harper has directed every possible resource to you. That lecture you gave? The Harper Group probably hired a whole team of experts just to make you look smart. You probably spent more time preparing your image than the actual content.¡±


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 Chapter 395

    ?Chapter 395:


    After a pause, she continued, ¡°You act like you¡¯ve earned your ce, but let¡¯s be honest. You don¡¯t have any real skill. Your image is crafted by the Harper family. Sooner orter, people will see the truth. Everyone will know what kind of person you really are. You won¡¯t be able to pretend for too long. If I were you, I¡¯d leave before that happens. Maybe Mr. Mitchell will keep you by his side for a while, but once your beauty fades, you will be abandoned by him in no time!¡±


    When she finished speaking, she expected Brenna to back down. In her mind, there was no way someone as young as Brenna could¡¯ve graduated from a top university ore up with some profound ideas on her own. It had to be the Harper Group pulling the strings and creating the polished image.


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell Mr. Mitchell everything,¡± Sabine said with a huff. ¡°Brenna, I¡¯m afraid you won¡¯t be able to keep this charade going much longer!¡±


    ¡°So, what¡¯s the n? When are you going to talk Mr. Harper into bringing Ernst back to the Harper Group to take up the CEO position again?¡± Sabine said with confidence. ¡°If you confess to Mr. Harper your ipetence and express your desire not to monopolize all of Harper Group¡¯s resources, then when I marry your brother, I might let you stay in the Harper family home. I¡¯ll ensure you have enough to live on.¡±


    Brenna was astounded by Sabine¡¯s audacity. Sabine wasn¡¯t even married to Ernst yet, but she was already making ns as if she owned everything in the Harper family. It was absurd.


    Her expression cold, Brenna fixed her gaze directly on Sabine.


    Sabine, initially full of arrogance, began to feel unsettled as she sensed Brenna¡¯s disdain. She snapped, ¡°What are you staring at? Answer me. Don¡¯t you think my offer is generous? Once I¡¯m married to your brother, I¡¯ll control everything in the Harper Group. It¡¯s generous of me to even consider letting you stay within the Harper family. You should be grateful.¡±


    Brenna gave her phone a little shake, then turned the screen toward Sabine for her to see.


    Sabine¡¯s confidence faltered, realizing that Brenna had been on a call the entire time, and Ernst was on the other end of the line!


    She had unknowingly revealed her intentions to Ernst. Panicking, she reached for Brenna¡¯s phone, scolding her, ¡°I¡¯m your future sister-inw! How could you disrespect me by letting someone eavesdrop on our conversation?¡±


    Brenna moved quickly, dodging Sabine¡¯s attempt to grab the phone, causing Sabine to almost lose her bnce.


    ¡°What do you think Ernst will feel about what you¡¯ve said?¡± Brenna asked, showing her the phone screen once more.


    Sabine¡¯s face fell, frustrated by her failure to seize the phone.


    She yelled into the phone, ¡°Ernst, listen to me! I didn¡¯t mean what I said. It was a test for your sister. I just wanted to see if she supports our union. I was only joking with her¡­¡±


    Brenna ended the call abruptly.


    In the small lounge on the fourth floor, Ernst had picked up the call but only caught a few confusing words. He was about to ask for rification when the line went dead, leaving him puzzled about Brenna¡¯s intentions.


    Opposite him, Viper was already making his way to the elevator. Their exchange had been tense, with Ernst and Ethan showing no deference toward Viper, obviously indifferent to his status.


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 Chapter 396

    ?Chapter 396:


    Ethan said to Viper directly, ¡°You should consider what I¡¯ve suggested. Remember, you have a shipment stuck at customs. And I¡¯m aware that its origins are not exactly above board.¡±


    Viper stood his ground. ¡°You needn¡¯t worry about my affairs. Better to concentrate on your own shipment instead.¡±


    Sabine¡¯s temper red as she yelled at Brenna, ¡°Are you ying games with me? Aren¡¯t you afraid I¡¯ll go straight to Ernst and tell him everything?¡±


    Brenna dismissed her concerns without fuss, saying, ¡°First off, you¡¯re not yet part of the Harper family. Our family issues don¡¯t concern you. Secondly, how can you be so certain Ernst will marry you? Ernst is remarkable, and plenty of women are drawn to him, even those whoe from backgrounds that match his perfectly.¡±


    She raised an eyebrow and walked to the window to look at the courtyard below.


    Sabine rushed to join her and was shocked by the sight. A stunningly beautiful woman was being introduced to Ernst by Giselle.


    Ernst greeted the girl with a polite smile, and they exchanged contact information.


    Sabine faintly recognized the woman, knowing her name was Lilith Richardson. She understood now that her future mother-inw disliked her; despite knowing about her rtionship with Ernst, she was still introducing him to other women.


    Brenna said, her voice cold, ¡°Do you really think you measure up to Lilith? Her parents hold powerful positions, and she¡¯s enrolled at one of the top universities. Her social status is far higher than yours. You could work your entire life and still fall short of her level. And to top it off, she¡¯s just as beautiful as you, if not even more. She is also younger than you.¡±


    Sabine¡¯s fists tightened, her brow furrowed deeply, and even her eyes showed signs of strain. She stared at Ernst as he continuously smiled at the young woman, indicating he might have taken a liking to her.


    Brenna said, ¡°Ernst heard everything you said just now. Look at how he¡¯sughing and talking with Lilith. Perhaps he has seen your true colors and decided to break up with you.¡±


    Sabine responded defiantly, ¡°That¡¯s not possible! We¡¯ve already moved in together. He promised he would never betray me. I will exin everything to him right now.¡±


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    She hurried out of the house and quickly made her way to the courtyard below.


    Ernst was asking Lilith about her preferences between barbecue and fruit tters with a smile, his demeanor filled with warmth.


    Sabine walked over to him and quickly said, ¡°Ernst, please listen. I didn¡¯t mean what I said earlier. I didn¡¯t want to drive your sister away. I just thought she was overstepping by pushing you out of the Harper Group. I wanted her to apologize, not to try and take all the Harper Group¡¯s resources.¡±


    Sabine had no idea that Ernst hadn¡¯t heard a single word of what she had said to Brenna.


    She mistakenly assumed he was upset and was deliberately mingling with another woman to make her angry. What she failed to realize was that Lilith and Greta had known Ernst since childhood. Though they had never been particrly close, they talked from time to time.


    Lilith had indeed exchanged contact information with Ernst, but to him, she was still the little girl who used to cling to his sleeve, seeking protection.


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 Chapter 397

    ?Chapter 397:


    Ernst listened intently to Sabine and felt that her words were bing more and more inappropriate. The people around them started to take notice, especially Lilith, who watched the unfolding drama with an amused expression. Sabine misread the situation and thought Lilith was trying to vie for Ernst¡¯s attention.


    She continued, ¡°Didn¡¯t Brenna force you out of the Harper Group and seize your shares? She has gone too far. She is clearly trying to monopolize the Harper family¡¯s assets. I¡¯m simply advising her to know her ce and not be so greedy.¡±


    Overhearing this, Dalton scoffed in disbelief and said, ¡°Who do you think you are? Since when were our family¡¯s affairs any of your business? I¡¯ll hand everything over to my sister if I like, and it¡¯s none of your business. Security, why haven¡¯t you escorted this woman out yet?¡±


    Growing more entertained by the minute, Lilith watched the drama unfold. Brenna stood beside Dalton, watching the scene with aposed gaze.


    Meanwhile, Ernst was fuming. This wasn¡¯t the Sabine he knew. She used to be reasonable, never mentioning the Harper family¡¯s assets. Ever since he left thepany, she had been relentless, urging him to return, insisting that Dalton was only good at acting and had no real business sense.


    Now, everything clicked into ce. His mother had been right all along. Sabine didn¡¯t love him. She just loved his money.


    Ernst said, ¡°What are you even talking about? The Harper Group doesn¡¯t belong to just me. I don¡¯t even have any shares left now. What exactly are you nning to do here?¡±


    Sabine froze. Suddenly, she realized Ernst hadn¡¯t overheard her conversation with Brenna earlier. Now, faced with his questioning, she was at aplete loss for words. Brenna had tricked her!


    Sabine whipped around to face Brenna, who was watching the drama unfold with a faint smile. Rage boiled inside her. ¡°How dare you deceive me like that?¡±


    Brenna chuckled and replied, ¡°I didn¡¯t deceive you. I really did call Ernst just now.¡±


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    After saying that, she pulled out her phone and yed a recording for everyone to hear. Sabine¡¯s words about controlling the Harper family and her desire to kick Brenna out were exposed for all to hear.


    A sharp smack echoed through the room as Giselle pped Sabine across the face. Giselle said furiously, ¡°You haven¡¯t even married Ernst yet, and you¡¯re already scheming for the Harper Group¡¯s assets? You¡¯ve got some nerve! Do you really think I¡¯ll bow to you one day, living under your thumb?¡±


    ¡°Mrs. Harper, that¡¯s not what I meant! Please, just hear me out¡­¡± Sabine¡¯s voice trembled with frustration as her world crumbled around her. She had never imagined Brenna would be so ruthless in exposing her. She realized no one would believe her now.


    ¡°I never thought you were this kind of person, Sabine.¡± Ernst was deeply disappointed, realizing he had consistently misjudged people and situations.


    Sabine still tried to defend herself, her voice rising in desperation. ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant at all. I just wanted to test if your sister liked me. I never meant to drive her away; I just wanted her to be more restrained.¡±


    Ernst retorted, ¡°My sister doesn¡¯t need your advice.¡±


    Dalton let out a derisive snort and motioned for the security guards.


    Without hesitation, the guards stepped forward and forcibly dragged Sabine out of the estate.


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 Chapter 398

    ?Chapter 398:


    Sabine shouted defiantly, ¡°Are you saying the women around you aren¡¯t after your money? And I don¡¯t believe Brenna is as remarkable as everyone thinks. How could someone from such an ordinary background graduate with a master¡¯s degree at eighteen? Who would buy that? She¡¯s just an ordinary person pushed forward by the Harper Group¡¯s resources. Don¡¯t be so easily fooled¡ª¡±


    Before she could say anything more, the security guards swiftly covered her mouth.


    Just then, two military vehicles pulled up at the entrance of the Harper family estate, instantly capturing everyone¡¯s attention.


    Braeden stepped out of one of them and walked toward Brenna with confident strides, holding a beautifully wrapped gift box in his hands.


    ¡°How could you throw a birthday party and not invite me? Have you forgotten about me, Miss Harper?¡± he said.


    Everyone looked at him, his crisp military uniform exuding an undeniable air of authority thatmanded respect from those around him.


    Genuinely surprised, Brenna put away her yful smile and greeted Braeden with respect. She then said, ¡°I didn¡¯t expect you toe.¡±


    She offered a slight smile and added, ¡°It¡¯s just a small birthday party. I didn¡¯t want to bother you.¡±


    Braeden chuckled, not questioning Brenna, and handed the gift he had brought to a servant who approached. He shook Brenna¡¯s hand politely, almost with a hint of reverence.


    The Harper family was taken aback by Braeden¡¯s high military status, clearly reflected in his uniform. Shepard, Ernst, and Ethan made their way over, and everyone turned to Brenna, waiting for her to introduce Braeden.


    Brenna said, ¡°This is Mr. Braeden Foster from the Weapons Research Institute.¡±


    As Sabine was being dragged toward the door, she stared wide-eyed at Braeden, her gaze fixed on his uniform, feeling as if she were dreaming. She couldn¡¯t believe such a high-ranking officer was attending Brenna¡¯s birthday party.


    Utterly amazed, Greta and Lilith stood side by side, munching on barbecue skewers as they watched Braeden mingle with Brenna.


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    Lilith¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Who would¡¯ve thought? Brenna¡¯s circle includes military officials.¡±


    Greta, far more serious than the cheerful Lilith, nodded thoughtfully. ¡°I can see why Mr. Mitchell is interested in her. Her connections are extensive. Did you hear what she said, something about the Weapons? What kind of coboration does Brenna have with the military?¡±


    Shaking her head, Lilith murmured, ¡°Sounds top secret, doesn¡¯t it?¡±


    The Harper family¡¯s servants presented Braeden with an array of extravagant dishes. Shepard, Ernst, and Dalton were all shocked that Brenna was working with the military. Was Brenna possibly involved in developing cutting-edge weaponry at the Weapons Research Institute?


    As Braeden savored the feast, he engaged warmly with the Harper family members.


    ¡°Your daughter¡¯s aplishments must fill you with pride. The military holds that kind of skill in high regard,¡± he said to Shepard.


    Shepard, puzzled yet curious, asked, ¡°Can you share what my daughter is working on with you?¡±


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 Chapter 399

    ?Chapter 399:


    His voice carried a cautious tone, aware of the sensitive nature of military projects. If Brenna could share any details, she would have done so by now.


    Braeden responded with augh, ¡°I¡¯m afraid that¡¯s confidential. It¡¯s just a minor project.¡±


    The Harper family responded with politeughter, but they knew the reality was not as simple as Braeden made it seem. After all, if it were just a small project, Braeden wouldn¡¯t have attended Brenna¡¯s birthday party personally like this.


    Ethan, familiar with military dealings from his two years of service, was unfamiliar with Braeden. Just as he was about to strike up a conversation, Braeden turned to him and said, ¡°You must be Ethan, Kenny¡¯s twin, correct?¡±


    To Ethan, soldiersmanded respect, but with so many of his own family members in the military, he didn¡¯t view them with the same admiration as the Harper family did. To him, being a soldier was simply another profession.


    ¡°Indeed,¡± Ethan answered.


    Their conversation flowed easily, with Braeden asking about Vincent¡¯s condition. Brenna asionally joined in, contributing to the discussion. After a while, a secretary who had apanied Braeden handed her a folder.


    With a respectful tone, Braeden said to Brenna, ¡°We¡¯ve held further talks since you left and drafted some proposals. Please, take these as a reference.¡±


    As the clock struck eight, a majestic five-tiered birthday cake was presented. The crowd gathered around Brenna and Ethan, making this the most borate birthday celebration Brenna had ever had.


    As the birthday song filled the air and everyone¡¯s faces lit up with joy, Brenna couldn¡¯t help but feel happy. She was satisfied to be surrounded by close friends and loving family members.


    Thiago, Ellie, and Patrick stood close together beside Brenna, their smiles brighter than anyone else¡¯s.


    Ethan caught Thiago¡¯s lingering look toward Brenna, something that seemed too intense, stirring a twinge of difort within him.


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    However, seeing Patrick holding the hands of both Ellie and Thiago brought himfort. He believed they looked more like a family.


    As for his friend Jayceon, he was content to let him stay out of the matter for the time being. Recently, Patrick had been keeping his distance from Jayceon because Fay had been clinging to him. He was unsettled by the stories Fay had shared about the cruel ways of stepmothers and didn¡¯t want to be around Jayceon and Fay anymore.


    Jayceon had told Ethan about this.


    Despite Jayceon¡¯s efforts to change Patrick¡¯s mind, Patrick remained distant. Watching the easy connection between Patrick and Thiago, Ethan couldn¡¯t help but notice how genuine their father-son-like bond appeared.


    Besides, Ellie¡¯s behavior toward Thiago was somewhat intimate. Ethan believed they might really be a couple in the future.


    Worried that Jayceon might feel overshadowed by Thiago, Ethan quickly snapped a picture of the trio holding hands amid the crowd¡¯s distraction and sent it to Jayceon, warning him.


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 Chapter 400

    Chapter 400:


    He also took a few photos with Brenna, asking people across the room for better angles, and swiftly posted them online.


    With an encouraging smile, Ethan said to Brenna, ¡°Time to make a wish.¡±


    Brenna pressed her hands together, closed her eyes, and silently made her wish. Then, she and Ethan blew out the candles together.


    When Greta saw the softness in Ethan¡¯s eyes as he looked at Brenna, her heart sank. Though she believed she was better than Brenna, theck of attention from Ethan hurt more than she had expected.


    Clutching her phone, she thought about asking Ethan for his contact information but hesitated, unsure of how he would respond and concerned about how Brenna might react.


    She turned to Lilith and suggested, ¡°Why don¡¯t you ask Mr. Mitchell for his number?¡±


    Lilith quickly understood her intentions and nced at her before replying, ¡°Why would I do that? If you¡¯re so eager to get close to him, why not ask him for his number yourself?¡±


    Greta pouted and said, ¡°But don¡¯t you think Mr. Mitchell is quite a catch? He¡¯s handsome and rich.¡±


    Lilith shed a knowing smile and brushed off the idea. ¡°I¡¯m not going after someone who¡¯s clearly already taken.¡±


    Greta gently shook Lilith¡¯s arm. ¡°Could you just do me this favor?¡±


    Lilith understood the situation. She could see that Ethan was warm toward Brenna, but his gaze toward everyone else was cool and distant. He didn¡¯t seem like someone who was easy to approach. Greta simply didn¡¯t want to risk being turned down.


    Lilith wasn¡¯t willing to take that risk for Greta.


    She said, ¡°Sorry, I really can¡¯t help you with this.¡±


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    Greta said nothing, but displeasure was evident on her face. She had spent a long time building up her nerve. But even after the cake was passed around, she still couldn¡¯t bring herself to approach Ethan and ask for his number. She understood that pushing too hard would backfire and make him dislike her. It was better to wait and see.


    Still, watching Ethan and Brenna move through the crowd together¡ªsmiling andughing, looking like a perfect match¡ªstirred something unpleasant in her chest.


    Brenna stayed busy until well past eleven before thest of the guests finally left. Many people had packed up some food before they left. The people from Brenna¡¯s studio, especially, helped themselves without a second thought.


    None of them felt guilty about taking food from their boss.


    The next day, Brenna slept in until after ten, only to be woken by Julia. Standing beside the bed, Julia hesitantly said, ¡°Miss Harper, the Barrett family is here again. They want to see you.¡±


    Brenna sat up, surprised. ¡°They still have the nerve to show up here?¡±


    Julia gave a strange smile. ¡°They do. And honestly, they look a bit pitiful. Would you like toe down and take a look?¡±


    With a groan, Brenna got out of bed, quickly freshened up, and made her way to the living room.


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    Message from Noah: Hope you liked the novel dear ones. God loves you and Noah whishes you all the best. (?=?=)? ?


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 Chapter 401

    ?Chapter 401:


    Downstairs, the Harper family was nowhere to be seen. The servants lingered in the corners, clearly amused by the situation. Some were even snickering behind their hands. No one had bothered to offer the Barretts a drink or the slightest gesture of hospitality.


    The entire Barrett family was present; Alec, Ruby, Mack, and Isabe were all there.


    Brenna couldn¡¯t help but chuckle at the sight of them. Alec and Mack looked like they¡¯d been through a street brawl. Both had bruised faces, and their suits were ripped in several ces, revealing rumpled, sweat-stained shirts underneath.


    Their clothes were filthy, streaked with some unknown liquid that had dried and crusted. Their lips were cracked and peeling at the edges, as if they hadn¡¯t had a sip of water in days.


    Alec seemed to have aged ten years. He had more grey hair now, and deep lines had carved themselves into his face.


    Ruby and Isabe didn¡¯t look any better. Though they weren¡¯t bruised, dirt smudged their cheeks, and their hair was matted and greasy.


    The four of them, aware of how awful they looked, didn¡¯t even attempt to sit. They stood stiffly in the center of the living room. Ruby and Isabe had red, swollen eyes¡ªthe kind that came from crying.


    ¡°What exactly happened to you?¡± Brenna settledfortably onto the sofa. Theughter she tried to hold back still slipped through.


    Alec¡¯s and Mack¡¯s faces darkened with anger. Brenna¡¯s amusement only added fuel to the fire burning in their chests.


    ¡°The Barrett Group is bankrupt!¡± Alec finally choked out. His voice shook, and tears ran down his face.


    Suddenly, a loud stomach growl echoed in the room. The Harper family¡¯s servants exchanged looks but stayed put. Without Brenna¡¯s instructions, none of them would bring food to the Barrett family members.


    Brenna acted like she hadn¡¯t heard a thing. She tilted her head and said, ¡°How could that be? Just a few days ago, I heard the Wagner family gave yourpany a huge order. It should be enough to keep you afloat for a whole year.¡±


    New chapters now on g@?¦Ç¦Òv???s.c§àm


    Alec let out a heavy sigh and said with regret, ¡°It was that order that ruined us. We epted it without realizing our machines were too outdated to handle the advancedponents. When we couldn¡¯t meet the specs, the client used us of dying their production and demandedpensation. We were already struggling. Where were we supposed to find that kind of money topensate the client?¡±


    Looking utterly broken, he continued, ¡°In the end, we had to mortgage thepany just to cover thepensation. If we hadn¡¯t paid, the client would¡¯ve dragged us to court, and I¡¯d be sitting in a jail cell by now.¡±


    He spoke as though his situation deserved sympathy, but Brenna just leaned back on the sofa and evenughed.


    This pushed Alec over the edge. Enraged, he said sharply to Brenna, ¡°Brenna, how can you be so heartless? The Barrett Group is gone. Thepany was mortgaged, and even our house was seized. We have nothing left now! Since getting kicked out yesterday, we haven¡¯t eaten or had a sip of water. And you just sit there,ughing. Aren¡¯t you going to help us get thepany and the house back?¡±


    Ruby couldn¡¯t hold back any longer. She jabbed a finger in Brenna¡¯s direction and snapped, ¡°We raised you all these years, and this is what we get in return? Where¡¯s your conscience? Can¡¯t you see we¡¯re starving? You won¡¯t even offer us a meal? You¡¯re so ungrateful!¡±


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 Chapter 402

    ?Chapter 402:


    Brenna raised an eyebrow. ¡°Conscience? Do you even know what that is? I always thought you didn¡¯t have one.¡±


    Ruby let out a cold snort, still looking arrogant. She said, ¡°We raised you for twenty years. We fed you and clothed you. Now that we¡¯re in trouble, you should help us. With the Harper family¡¯s power, getting back the Barrett Group and the house would be easy. Brenna, it¡¯s time you paid us back for what we did for you.¡±


    She narrowed her eyes as she added, ¡°You wouldn¡¯t want to be seen as someone ungrateful, right?¡±


    Mack¡¯s displeasure was evident, his brows knitting into a frown as he took in Brenna¡¯s amusement at the situation. His voice, tinged with sharpness, broke the silence. ¡°Indeed,¡± he said coldly. ¡°Your current achievements owe everything to the Barrett family¡¯s efforts. We¡¯ve poured years of time and substantial resources into molding you into the person you are today. Now, as the Harper family¡¯s daughter, you are swathed in status and privilege. We¡¯re not asking for grand gestures of repayment. Simply repaying us would suffice.¡± His words dripped with condescension, more a demand than a request.


    Mack continued, ¡°Hurry up! I¡¯m hungry and in dire need of a shower. We¡¯re giving you a chance to settle your debts¡ªserve us some food and provide clean clothes. Where¡¯s the bathroom? Also, clear a few rooms; we¡¯re staying here.¡±


    His eyes roamed the opulent interior of the Harper residence, a stark contrast to the more modest Barrett family home. How did Brenna end up living amidst such luxury, attended by a fleet of servants? How had fortune so favored her?


    Ruby tilted her chin up, her smirk full of arrogance. ¡°Consider this repayment n a favor. You should feel grateful.¡±


    Alec, ever the diplomatpared to Mack¡¯s harshness, spoke in a softer tone. ¡°Brenna, dear, we¡¯re famished. Could you please prepare something for us? Look at our plight¡ªwe¡¯ve faced so much hardship. Bring out whatever delicacies you have¡ªtruffles, caviar, Iberian ham. Anything filling will do. And clothes? Something simple yet tasteful, in the low five-figures range should suffice. We can¡¯t remain like this, a sight for sore eyes. Otherwise, we¡¯ll be aughingstock.¡±


    In his view, his approach was nothing but a disy of paternal affection. Isabe watched silently from the sidelines, studying Brenna, well aware of her cold nature.


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    Mack, frustrated by Brenna¡¯s apparent indifference, snapped, ¡°You heard us. Hurry up!¡±


    Brenna responded calmly, ¡°Are you finished? If so, leave.¡± Her expression was cold.


    Ruby¡¯s anger red instantly. ¡°How can you be so heartless!¡± she hissed. ¡°Can¡¯t you see we¡¯re in dire need? We¡¯re left with nothing¡ªno home, no means to survive. You¡¯re ourst hope. And let me remind you, this isn¡¯t merely charity. It¡¯s your opportunity to enhance the Harper family¡¯s reputation. I suggest you don¡¯t squander it.¡±


    Brenna stood up with controlled elegance, her movements charged with icy determination. ¡°Oh, I remember your ¡®kindness¡¯ to me,¡± she replied, her voice sharp as a de. ¡°All those demands. When I didn¡¯t produce the blueprints you wanted, you let me starve. How many times did I plead while you looked away? Your hearts never wavered.¡±


    Ruby recoiled under the weight of Brenna¡¯s words, her gaze darting away.


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 Chapter 403

    ?Chapter 403:


    Alec and Mack, too embarrassed to meet Brenna¡¯s stare, turned their heads.


    Ruby struggled to respond, finally blurting out, ¡°That was all part of your training. Without our guidance, would you have achieved so much? You ought to be grateful, not vindictive. Now, bring out some food! We are starving here!¡± Her voice was urgent, her tone sharp.


    She even barked at the servants, ¡°Are you all deaf? Bring us some food! Do you want to starve us to death? You can¡¯t afford the consequences; you know that, right?¡±


    The servants stood still. Julia nced at Brenna, and since Brenna stayed silent, she and the other servants naturally ignored Ruby¡¯s orders. To them, they didn¡¯t work for these four.


    Without another word, Julia simply motioned for the other servants to resume their tasks.


    ¡°Stop right there! Is this how you do your job? I¡¯ll fire everyst one of you!¡± Ruby shouted.


    Brenna gave Ruby a frosty look before signaling a security guard with a brisk gesture. ¡°Darrell, please remove these individuals and ensure they are permanently banned from the premises. Inform the neighborhood patrol as well¡ªthey should no longer have ess to the area. Such eyesores are truly intolerable.¡±


    Several security guards stormed in, unceremoniously dragging the four out. Ruby was the loudest in protest, throwing a full-blown tantrum¡ªkicking, screaming, and even thrashing on the floor in refusal to leave.


    Isabe, unable to hold back, tried to reason with Brenna, saying, ¡°Even if we wronged you before, we¡¯re still your family. Look at how pitiful we are. Can¡¯t you show a bit ofpassion? If you don¡¯t help us now, we¡¯ll end up on the streets. While you luxuriate in your mansion, your family suffers like beggars. Can your conscience bear that? You can¡¯t be that heartless and ungrateful!¡±


    Brennaughed without humor, dismissing them with a flick of her wrist. Then she suddenly thought of something and said to the Barrett family members, ¡°Ah, yes. I know where your family can go now.¡±


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    Ruby, momentarily halting her cries, looked at Brenna. ¡°Where?¡±


    Brenna replied calmly, ¡°Isabe is with Denis, isn¡¯t she? Seek refuge with him; he¡¯s bound to provide you with food and a ce to stay. After all, it was Denis who orchestrated the deal that bankrupted the Barrett family. He owes you, doesn¡¯t he?¡±


    Isabe¡¯s face clouded over immediately. The very idea of meeting Denis in her current ragged, unkempt state filled her with fear. Denis was not a man of second chances¡ªone look at her like this would likely make him abandon her for good.


    Despite seeing Denis as herst hope, she made a firm decision¡ªshe would only seek him out once she had regained her former, elegant self. Thinking the same, Ruby stood up, smoothing her clothes with exaggerated elegance. Even in their difficult situation, she still carried an air of arrogance.


    ¡°Brenna,¡± she said with false sweetness, ¡°I understand you hate us. However, this cruelty beneath your refined appearance does not reflect well on you. Here¡¯s our proposal¡ªhouse us for just a few days, provide meals and basic clothing. We¡¯ll find work soon and get back on our feet. After a couple of months, we¡¯ll move out once we¡¯re stable. Even someone as cold as you should agree to this, right?¡± Her tone was that of a negotiation.


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 Chapter 404

    ?Chapter 404:


    Mack quickly intervened to persuade Brenna. ¡°We¡¯ve already madepromises. You can¡¯t be so harsh just because we¡¯re going through hard times. Don¡¯t forget, we turned Barrett Group from a small workshop into a publicly recognizedpany. If you give us some startup capital, we¡¯ll bounce back and repay your generosity.¡±


    Ruby¡¯s expression shifted, determination growing. Mack¡¯s words reminded her of something. ¡°The Harper family¡¯s fortune is vast, practically endless. And I know you have that billionaire boyfriend. If you don¡¯t want us here, just give us some money¡ªten billion would settle this. Fund our fresh start, and we promise you won¡¯t see us again. With Mack¡¯s and Alec¡¯s abilities, we¡¯ll return to our former glory.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s response was cold and firm. ¡°You won¡¯t get a penny from me. I¡¯ve already repaid you for raising me. Didn¡¯t I make that clear?¡±


    With a sly smirk, Brenna dismissed the Barrett family¡¯s inted sense of aplishment. ¡°You all love to boast about how Barrett Group grew from a simple workshop to a listedpany. But if you were truly capable, would Barrett Group have ended in failure?¡±


    She then turned to Julia and said, ¡°Didn¡¯t we have leftovers from my birthday celebration yesterday? Just give that to them; it should be enough.¡±


    Julia stepped out of the pantry, a sneer spreading across her face as she took in the sight of the Barretts.


    ¡°Unfortunately,¡± she said, ¡°such terrible timing. There were plenty of leftovers, Miss Harper, but your studio staff took most of them. What was left was still too much for us, so Darrell decided it would be better to feed the neighborhood strays with it. So we¡­¡±


    She cast a deliberate nce toward the window, making it clear the scraps had gone to the strays. Brenna just smiled quietly, saying nothing.


    Julia¡¯s eyes narrowed as she addressed the Barrett family, her tone dripping with false sweetness. ¡°Naturally, if you¡¯d prefer what we usually give to the strays, I can ask someone to fetch some of our leftovers for you.¡± She paused deliberately. ¡°I doubt the neighborhood cats and dogs would mind sharing.¡±


    Laughter echoed from the pantry, where the servants had gathered to watch the scene unfold.


    Enraged, Alec and Mack were about to strike Brenna, their fists tightening and sleeves rolled up in fury.


    However, Darrell and his security team swiftly intervened, pinning them to the floor and beating them back.


    Despite a bloody nose, Alec hurled insults at Brenna. ¡°You heartless wretch! We asked for help, and you mocked us? Just wait¡ªyou¡¯ll regret this!¡±


    Brenna¡¯s order was sharp and swift. ¡°Get them out of here.¡± The guards dragged the Barrett family away quickly.


    Julia then turned to the other servants. ¡°Let¡¯s clean the house thoroughly. Those people dirtied this ce.¡±


    Having been forcibly removed, the Barrett family faced their most shameful moment.


    Alec rubbed his aching shoulder, frustration heavy in his voice. ¡°After everything we¡¯ve done for that ungrateful girl, she treated us like garbage! Our time, our resources¡ªit¡¯s all been for nothing!¡±


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 Chapter 405

    ?Chapter 405:


    Mack, wiping the blood from his split lip, shot an angry nce at Alec. ¡°So, this was your big n? You honestly thought she¡¯d forget how we treated her? We brought this on ourselves.¡±


    Isabe, cheeks burning with embarrassment, said, ¡°When we were kicked out, many onlookers saw us and took photos. This is all your fault! I told you she¡¯d never help us!¡±


    Ruby snapped at her children, her voice sharp with fury. ¡°Enough! If you had even a fraction of Brenna¡¯s talent, we wouldn¡¯t be in this mess!¡±


    She paused for a moment, then asked, ¡°So, where are we going to sleep tonight? We have nowhere else to go.¡±


    Mack had thought of a ce some time ago but hesitated to mention it. With no other options left, he reluctantly said, ¡°There¡¯s a luxury apartment in the East District, the one Dad secured for Ms. Tucker.¡±


    Ruby¡¯s suspicion immediately red at the name. Noticing Alec¡¯s sudden change in behavior, she snapped, ¡°Ms. Tucker? Who is that? Alec, are you having an affair?¡±


    Alec remained silent, avoiding her gaze as he turned away.


    Mack tried to persuade him, saying, ¡°Come on, Dad, we don¡¯t have a choice now. We have to go to Ms. Tucker¡¯s ce.¡±


    Alec¡¯s face darkened like stormy clouds, and his intense gaze on Mack felt as sharp as a de. He hadn¡¯t forgotten about L Tucker¡¯s ce; he had simply wanted to go there alone. That was why he hadn¡¯t mentioned it earlier.


    He had seen that modest 150-square-meter apartment as his personal refuge, a space he imagined solely for himself, with no room for his family.


    The thought of his wife and mistress living under the same roof was utterly absurd to him.


    With one look at Alec¡¯s stormy expression, Ruby confirmed all her suspicions. Her anger red instantly. For years, she had believed Alec to be the perfect, loyal husband. While other wealthy men unted their mistresses, she proudly told her friends about Alec¡¯s steadfast faithfulness, often attributing it to her own charm.


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    Now, the reality was clear¡ªit was nothing like she had imagined. How could she contain her fury?


    Ruby unleashed her anger like a raging storm, gripping Alec¡¯s ear with force. ¡°You jerk! All these years, you acted like the ideal husband while secretly having an affair?¡±


    Alec flinched, recalling the days when Ruby would storm through the Barrett Group headquarters, dragging secretaries and ountants by their hair across the trading floor when they were involved with him.


    Since those fiery times, he had be skilled at hiding his affairs from Ruby.


    In the past, he had feared Ruby¡¯s dramatic outbursts, worried they might cause thepany¡¯s stock to plummet. Now, with nopany to protect and no reputation to defend, he refused to endure Ruby¡¯s anger.


    His hand struck Ruby¡¯s cheek with a loud p that silenced their children. ¡°Enough! Yes, I¡¯ve been unfaithful. What are you going to do about it? I have somewhere to be now. And what about you? Your parents are gone, and your rtives are cutting ties with you. If you don¡¯t want to end up on the streets, you¡¯d better do whatever I say!¡±


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 Chapter 406

    ?Chapter 406:


    Mack and Isabe stood frozen, their world suddenly turned upside down. Life had always followed a pattern¡ªfrequent outbursts from their mother, their father¡¯s quiet eptance. But now, the red mark on Ruby¡¯s cheek from Alec¡¯s p marked a clear break from that pattern.


    ¡°Enough!¡± Mack stepped between Ruby and Alec, his voice trembling with strain. ¡°Why are we fighting like this now? Aren¡¯t we still a family?¡±


    Ruby recovered from the p and jabbed a finger at Alec. ¡°How dare you hit me? I¡¯ll make you pay for this!¡±


    Mack caught her wrists, trying to stop her. ¡°Mom, stop this! Dad hasn¡¯t done anything wrong. Keeping mistresses is practically a tradition for the rich. Without Dad¡¯s affair, we wouldn¡¯t even have Ms. Tucker¡¯s ce to fall back on now.¡±


    Feeling more abandoned than ever, Ruby¡¯s heart ached as Mack seemed to side with Alec.


    Tears streamed down her face as she cried out, ¡°Mack, how can you defend him like this? I¡¯m your mother, and your father betrayed me!¡±


    Mack, maintaining hisposure, tried to reason with her. ¡°Mom, consider our options. Do you want to starve or end up sleeping on the streets? Ms. Tucker¡¯s house is the best option we have right now. Can you think of any alternative?¡±


    Ruby cried, her voice cracking, ¡°Would we be in this situation if I had an answer to that? Not even your uncle will help us; his wife mmed the door in my face like I was a stranger.¡±


    Mack tried to calm her down. ¡°We can either hold on to our pride or keep ourselves off the streets tonight. You know what to choose. Please, let¡¯s avoid any more drama.¡±


    Ruby¡¯s anger remained as she followed the others, unwillingly heading toward L¡¯s ce.


    As they walked, Ruby bombarded Alec with questions. ¡°That apartment¡ªyou bought it for her, right? You used your money, correct?¡±


    Alec kept silent. The situation was far moreplicated than Ruby realized. From the beginning, L had been plotting to keep the property away from Judy, carefully crafting a smart, long-term strategy.


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    Every time she received money from Alec, it was disguised as a bonus or consultancy fee.


    The apartment was entirely owned by L. It was bought using her bank ount. With thew on her side, even if Alec wanted to reim the house, he wouldn¡¯t be able to seed.


    As Ruby pressed him for answers, Alec quickened his pace, choosing silence over revealing the truth.


    Driven by frustration, Ruby shoved him and demanded, ¡°I¡¯m talking to you! Answer me!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯splicated, okay? The house wasn¡¯t bought with my money,¡± Alec snapped back, his patience wearing thin.


    Ruby¡¯s voice grew louder. ¡°Ridiculous! She couldn¡¯t possibly afford that ce on her own!¡± Her eyes narrowed. ¡°Spill the truth!¡±


    Alec¡¯s tone was equally sharp. ¡°I¡¯m telling you the truth! She¡¯s a skilled ountant¡ªevery transaction was legitimate. You won¡¯t be able to get the apartment.¡±


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 Chapter 407

    ?Chapter 407:


    Ruby saw right through his attempts to dodge the issue. She sneered, ¡°I won¡¯t divorce you. Do you really think you can just leave us and live with her? Not a chance!¡±


    The Barretts had left their home empty-handed¡ªno jewelry, no wallets, not even a phone among them. All their valuables remained locked up behind the high walls of their house.


    Stranded without money for transportation, they had no choice but to walk to L¡¯s ce from Brenna¡¯s.


    The destination was quite far, about thirty kilometers away.


    Even if they took the subway, it could take over an hour to get there. As evening fell, they finally reached L¡¯s apartmentplex. Their shoes were worn thin, blisters throbbing with every step, while hunger gnawed mercilessly at their insides.


    When Ruby saw someone about to throw away a half-eaten hot dog, she rushed forward, begged for the discarded food, and devoured it frantically.


    Upon arrival, the Barrett family copsed from exhaustion at the entrance, drained and waiting for L.


    L arrived around six-thirty in the evening, apanied by her son, Hugh Barrett.


    When L and Hugh saw Alec¡ªdisheveled and bruised¡ªthey paused, taking a moment to recognize the battered figure before them.


    Hugh stepped forward to help Alec up, his voice full of concern. ¡°Dad¡­ What happened to you? Did someone beat you?¡±


    Alec winced at his son¡¯s blunt question. ¡°No, it¡¯s nothing,¡± he replied. ¡°I just had a nasty fall.¡±


    Ruby¡¯s temper red at the sight of Hugh. Pushing through her fatigue, she exploded in anger at Alec.


    ¡°How dare you!¡± Her voice shattered the silence. ¡°You and this woman already have a child? How long have you been cheating on me?¡±


    Seeing L dressed in designer clothes and Hugh wearing expensive sneakers only deepened Ruby¡¯s resentment. To her, they were living the life that should have been hers.


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    Fueled by rage, Ruby charged at them, driven by pure spite. L, however, reacted swiftly. With a quick motion, she pulled Hugh out of harm¡¯s way and shoved Ruby hard, sending her sprawling to the ground.


    Ruby¡¯s exhaustion from the long walk showed as her legs buckled under L¡¯s strong shove.


    ¡°How dare you shove me!¡± Ruby¡¯s outcry echoed sharply. ¡°You homewrecker!¡±


    Before Ruby could say more, Alec¡¯s hand struck her cheek, knocking her down just as she had managed to stand.


    ¡°Think about what you¡¯re doing! Do you want to stay here or not? Is this how you ask for help?¡± he eximed.


    Though Ruby didn¡¯t recognize L well, L knew exactly who Ruby was.


    Confronted with the younger, elegantly dressed L, Ruby felt humiliated.


    The difference was ring¡ªL looked beautiful, refined, and youthful, while Ruby, with sweat-drenched clothes and greasy hair, looked like a shadow of her former self.


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 Chapter 408

    ?Chapter 408:


    Still, Ruby clung fiercely to one advantage¡ªshe was Alec¡¯swful wife and could use L of being the mistress.


    ¡°Alec bought this house you¡¯re living in, didn¡¯t he?¡± Ruby sneered with a false sense of superiority.


    The thought of finding refuge briefly pushed aside her exhaustion and filled her with renewed energy.


    She gripped Mack¡¯s hand, standing tall and defiant.


    L replied calmly, ¡°I bought the house.¡± Then she walked to stand beside Alec, holding a bag of takeout food. The scent of the food drifted in the air, causing Alec¡¯s stomach to growl.


    ¡°Enough. Let¡¯s discuss this inside,¡± Alec snapped at Ruby, already heading toward the door. ¡°Stop making a scene here. We don¡¯t want to be aughingstock.¡±


    Mack and Isabe also urged Ruby to calm down.


    Alec turned to L and exined the situation: ¡°The Barrett Group is bankrupt, and our home has been confiscated. We have nowhere to go. L, could we stay here for a while until we figure things out?¡±


    Without hesitation, L guided them to the elevator.


    As they ascended, Ruby¡¯s voice echoed off the mirrored walls, her anger relentless.


    ¡°Everything Alec has given you, including this apartment, belongs to me,¡± she said, poking L¡¯s chest. ¡°You should give it all back to me now. I¡¯ll drag you to court if I have to.¡±


    L looked at her with cold indifference, her voice calm but firm. ¡°Say one more word, and you won¡¯t be able to stay in my ce tonight.¡± Ruby instantly fell silent upon hearing that.


    Once inside, L ced the food on the dining table. The Barretts devoured it with urgency, their hunger obvious.


    Hugh watched in frustration as the unexpected guests consumed his meal, irritation clear on his face.


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    After giving the Barretts some water, L brought out everything else she had, arranging it on the table.


    She then gently stroked Hugh¡¯s hair, offeringfort. ¡°Don¡¯t worry; I¡¯ll order something for you to eat soon,¡± she reassured him.


    Hugh¡¯s frustration was evident. ¡°Mom, they¡¯re annoying. Please ask them to leave. I don¡¯t want them staying in our home.¡±


    The Barretts sprawled across L¡¯s sofa, their stomachs heavy from indulgence, their arrogance rekindled like embers fanned back to life.


    Especially Ruby, Mack, and Isabe, each wearing the same sneer, their gazes fixed on L with a blend of disdain and entitlement.


    Ruby¡¯s mind was already working like clockwork. Her eyes swept over the apartment¡¯s openyout as a n began to form in her head.


    ¡°You have thirty minutes,¡± she announced, her voicemanding. ¡°Pack what¡¯s yours and leave. From now on, this is our home.¡±


    L exhaled, the corners of her lips curling into a quiet smile. ¡°Funny,¡± she said. ¡°Even stray dogs have the sense not to bite the hand that feeds them. But I see you¡¯ve decided to im what was never yours. If anyone¡¯s leaving, it won¡¯t be me.¡±


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 Chapter 409

    ?Chapter 409:


    Ruby¡¯sughter rang sharp and cold. ¡°Alec bought this house.¡± She jabbed a finger toward him. ¡°I am his wife. His assets belong to me. So, are you leaving, or should I call the police now?¡±


    Mack leaned forward, his tone dripping with condescension. ¡°Let¡¯s be clear, Ms. Tucker ¡ª anything bought with Barrett money is Barrett property.¡±


    His smile was tight, devoid of warmth. ¡°We¡¯re being civil by asking you to leave. You¡¯d be smart toply immediately.¡±


    The unspoken truth hung heavy in the air: this apartment was theirst refuge. But L had anticipated this moment years ago. Every document, every transaction had been meticulously arranged to withstand exactly this sort of entitled tantrum. She was not afraid of the Barrett family.


    Her gaze shifted to Alec, the man who had once showered her with gifts, indulgences, and care. Alec had always been good to her and her son; that was why she had allowed him and his family in today.


    But her hospitality had limits. She wouldn¡¯t let them push her around. ¡°Alec,¡± she said, her voiceced with deceptive sweetness as she turned to him, ¡°this is my house, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    Alec¡¯s gaze softened, his voice almost tender. ¡°Of course it is. I already told you I wouldn¡¯t take the house back, no matter what.¡±


    L¡¯s smile blossomed. She was willing to let Alec stay. ¡°You always know how to treat me right, honey.¡±


    Ruby recoiled, disgust curling her lips. ¡°Have some decency! How can you flirt with my husband right in front of me?¡±


    Her re was sharp enough to melt steel as she turned to Alec. ¡°You need to choose between me and her now. I have been your wife for years and given you two children. You¡¯d better be smart and make the right decision.¡±


    In her mind, Mack and Isabe would stand by her. They would make money and support her financially in the future.


    But Alec? He was just another middle-aged man. L was young and beautiful, only interested in Alec for his money. Now that he was broke, she wouldn¡¯t treat him well.


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    L would surely kick Alec out soon.


    ¡°She¡¯ll toss you aside likest season¡¯s fashion, Alec,¡± Ruby warned, arms crossed.


    Alec turned to L. ¡°Going broke today doesn¡¯t mean staying down forever. Since I built the Barrett Group before, I can build anotherpany again.¡± His eyes bore into hers, unwavering. ¡°Fifty isn¡¯t old. I have decades left to rebuild my career.¡±


    L¡¯s smile remained sweet as she replied, ¡°Of course you will, darling. I trust you.¡± After a brief pause, she added, ¡°But this arrangement? I can¡¯t ept it. I won¡¯t live under the same roof as your wife. Divorce would cut through all theplications, don¡¯t you think?¡±


    Mack¡¯s temper red like a match to dry kindling. ¡°Stop dreaming!¡± His finger jabbed the air between them. ¡°Whatever my dad gave you, you¡¯re handing back! Everyst penny!¡±


    ¡°Enough!¡± Alec¡¯s roar cracked through the tension, silencing the room. ¡°I didn¡¯t give her any money in private. She¡¯s an ountant! The money I gave her was her sry!¡±


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 Chapter 410

    ?Chapter 410:


    Mack clenched his fist, unwilling to surrender. ¡°Dad, why are you defending her? We¡¯re your real family!¡±


    Isabe stood off to the side, the weight of misfortune pressing heavily on her shoulders. This wasn¡¯t how things were supposed to go. She had returned to the Barrett family expecting luxury, only to find ruin waiting for her.


    Now, they didn¡¯t even have a ce to live.


    Ruby¡¯s voice rang out cold and unyielding. She looked at L. ¡°That¡¯s right; we are his family. And this house? It¡¯s mine¡ªevery inch of it. I have every right to take back what belongs to me. Now, pack your things and get out!¡±


    L went to the bedroom to retrieve something. She quickly returned with the deed. With deliberate poise, she flipped it open and showed it to Ruby. ¡°Read it yourself,¡± she said. ¡°This house is mine. So unless you want me to call the police, I suggest you leave.¡±


    Ruby barely nced at the deed, her sneer unwavering. ¡°I don¡¯t give a damn! This is my house, and I¡¯m not going anywhere!¡±


    L didn¡¯t waste another breath. She quickly called the police.


    ¡°Call the cops all you want!¡± Ruby barked. ¡°I¡¯m his wife! Thew¡¯s on my side!¡±


    L turned to Alec, her voice calm but edged with finality. ¡°If they don¡¯t leave now, when the officers arrive, you¡¯ll have to leave right alongside them.¡±


    Alec didn¡¯t hesitate. His hands shot out, shoving Ruby toward the door. ¡°You heard her! Get out! I just found a roof over my head, and you¡¯re not about to ruin this for me!¡±


    ¡°Alec! I am your wife!¡± Ruby¡¯s voice cracked. ¡°How could you side with her?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll divorce you tomorrow!¡± Alec closed the door icily on his wife and children.


    One weekend morning, Brenna woke much earlier than usual. She chose to wear a stunning burgundy gown that hugged her waist perfectly, pairing it with a matching bag. As she descended the stairs, each step seemed effortless, filled with natural grace.


    The soft tap of her ck leather shoes on the floor caught the attention of every servant, all captivated by her presence.


    Julia couldn¡¯t help but express her admiration. ¡°You¡¯re glowing today. There¡¯s a gentle yet captivating charm about you. Do you have a date with Mr. Mitchell?¡±


    With a subtle nod, Brenna took her ce at the breakfast table for a light meal. Just as she finished, the sound of a car horn echoed from outside. Ethan stood by his car, dressed in his usual ck suit. When he saw Brenna, his typically cold expression softened into a weing smile.


    ¡°Why are you free today?¡± Brenna asked, curiosity coloring her tone as she joined him in the car. ¡°Where are you taking us?¡±


    Ethan carefully buckled her seatbelt and said, ¡°A friend has flown in some exceptional seafood. We¡¯re going to have a taste. I thought a little escape might do you good after your recent endeavors.¡±


    Their journey led them to a coastal dock, a ce Brenna had never visited before. It buzzed with activity as workers handled shipments from mid-sized vessels.


    Brenna noticed a distinctive yacht among the more functional boats. Holding Ethan¡¯s hand, she stepped aboard, though his focus seemed fixed on the cargo ships.


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 Chapter 411

    ?Chapter 411:


    ¡°Is that your shipment?¡± Brenna asked.


    ¡°Indeed, it¡¯s a shipment of rare earth minerals,¡± Ethan answered, his tone growing a bit distant. ¡°A friend helped with the deal. She¡¯ll join uster; I owe her thanks.¡±


    Brenna caught the subtle chill in his gaze but chose not to pry. Instead, she joined him on the deck, absorbing the view ¡ª seagulls weaving patterns across the sky, their calls blending with the ocean breeze.


    Their quiet moment was pleasantly disrupted by the arrival of Ernst and Sabine. The couple, radiating joy, stepped onto the deck, theirughter filling the air.


    Brenna found herself wondering about their swift reconciliation. Why would Ernst reconcile with a woman who only liked him for his money?


    Brenna met Sabine¡¯s provocative re with a steely gaze. She was determined to make Sabine and Ernst break up.


    ¡°What brings you here?¡± Ernst asked Brenna, but his eyes quickly shifted to Ethan.


    A faint smile tugged at the corners of Ethan¡¯s mouth. ¡°I¡¯m engaged to Brenna. Why would I bring anyone else?¡±


    Ernst was momentarily caught off guard before saying, ¡°The open sea is dangerous. You shouldn¡¯t bring her here.¡±


    He took hold of Brenna¡¯s arm and said, ¡°You have to leave right now. We¡¯re heading into open waters, possibly staying overnight. It¡¯s not safe for you.¡±


    He attempted to escort Brenna off the yacht.


    Ethan interjected, ¡°Hold on. I¡¯m here to ensure her safety, and she¡¯ll return unharmed.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s gaze sharpened as he fixed his eyes on Ernst, the meaning unmistakable ¡ª hadn¡¯t Ernst also brought someone who shouldn¡¯t be here? Why would Ernst keep a woman who had been disrespectful to Brenna by his side, even introducing her to friends?


    Brenna sensed that something was off about the situation.


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    The air grew thick with tension as Jayceon and Fay arrived, hand in hand. Seeing them, Brenna¡¯s anger red.


    Upon noticing Brenna, Jayceon abruptly let go of Fay¡¯s hand, causing her to nearly lose her bnce on the gangnk.


    ¡°Jayceon!¡± Fay eximed. ¡°Why are you afraid of her?¡±


    Jayceon ignored her and approached Ethan. ¡°Quite the audacious move bringing her here. Aren¡¯t you afraid something might happen to her?¡±


    Unfazed, Ethan responded, ¡°As long as I¡¯m here, she won¡¯t face any harm. You should worry about your woman instead.¡±


    Jayceon patted Ethan¡¯s shoulder as he walked past him.


    Brenna had assumed the guest list was final, but that changed when Denis and Isabe stepped onto the boat.


    This didn¡¯t surprise Brenna. With the Barrett family¡¯s fall from grace, Isabe¡¯s shift toward bing Denis¡¯ lover ¡ª or even his girlfriend ¡ª felt almost inevitable. It was predictable that Isabe would be here with Denis. What genuinely surprised


    What surprised her most was Denis¡¯ eptance of Isabe despite the Barrett family¡¯s tarnished reputation.


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 Chapter 412

    ?Chapter 412:


    Radiating joy, Isabe clung to Denis¡¯ arm, her presence at the event marking her as his official girlfriend.


    She warmly greeted Sabine and Fay before approaching Brenna with her chin held high, assuming she held the same status.


    ¡°What a coincidence to see you here,¡± Isabe said, her smile sweet butced with malice.


    Brenna smiled back. ¡°It seems you didn¡¯t sleep on a park benchst night.¡±


    Isabe¡¯s body tensed with anger. ¡°What nonsense are you talking about?¡±


    Isabe now had a ce to live¡ªDenis had arranged an apartment for her, Ruby, and Mack. He had even secured a job for Mack at a Wagner Group subsidiary. What puzzled her was Alec¡¯s decision to leave Ruby for his mistress.


    But she didn¡¯t care about that. With the Barrett Group already bankrupt, Alec no longer mattered to her.


    She had Denis now, the heir to the Wagner family. Clinging to him meant a life of luxury.


    ¡°Do you even know who¡¯s paying for this outing?¡± Isabe sneered, her eyes gleaming with disdain.


    Brenna had no idea who was sponsoring today¡¯s outing. But from the exchanged nces and quiet smirks, it was clear she was the only one out of the loop. The realization settled heavily in her chest.


    Fay and Sabine swooped in to escort Isabe away. Fay¡¯s voice carried loud enough for everyone to hear, ¡°Don¡¯t bother with her. We don¡¯t associate with her kind.¡±


    All three showed no effort to hide their hostility toward Brenna.


    Ethan¡¯s face darkened, but he said nothing.


    At that moment, Brenna turned to Ethan and asked, ¡°Is there something you¡¯re not telling me?¡±


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    Ethan held her gaze without flinching. ¡°During my trip to Norview, things gotplicated. The Hewitts stepped in to help. I owe them. And the Hewitt family¡¯s daughter¡­ she is really hard to deal with.¡±


    Though his words were vague, he trusted Brenna to understand the meaning behind them.


    Brenna nodded knowingly. ¡°She¡¯s interested in you.¡±


    Ethan gave a faint smile as confirmation. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I don¡¯t get chosen. I¡¯m the one who chooses. No one can control me.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s lips curled into a smile. ¡°I¡¯ve heard about the Hewitt family before. They¡¯re big yers in Norview¡¯s underworld. Butpared to you, they still fall short.¡±


    As the yacht pushed into deeper waters, Sabine, Fay, and Isabe tossed bread to circling seagulls, clearly enjoying themselves.


    Brenna and Ethan stood a short distance away, the sea breeze curling between them. The other men kept their distance, giving them space.


    Soon, a woman arrived. She was d in ck leather, nked by a dozen guards clutching rifles.


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 Chapter 413

    ?Chapter 413:


    The bodyguards stood tall in full tactical gear¡ªhelmets, dark visors, and masks leaving not a single inch of skin visible.


    Brenna studied the woman. She appeared to be in herte twenties. The tight leather outfit clung to her curves, and her crimson lips stood out starkly against her face. Her skirt was so short it barely covered what it needed to.


    She moved with the confidence of someone who knew exactly what kind of attention theymanded.


    Commanding attention without a word, she made a beeline for Ethan. The others quickly followed. Ernst shifted closer to Brenna, taking up a protective stance.


    ¡°Miss Hewitt,¡± Denis said, his eyes raking over her figure with tant interest. ¡°It¡¯s been a while.¡±


    He nodded toward the armed entourage. ¡°What are they for? nning to take us all down here?¡±


    Jade Hewitt, taller than Brenna by a few inches, rested a manicured hand on Ethan¡¯s shoulder. Her eyes were filled with longing.


    Ethan recoiled, his revulsion unmistakable. His expression was cold and distant.


    Jade¡¯s hand dropped, and she looked displeased. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, is this how you show your gratitude? After everything I did to save you?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t need saving. I had the situation under control at that time,¡± Ethan replied firmly.


    Jade¡¯s gaze shifted to Brenna, studying her carefully. The rifles didn¡¯t seem to faze Brenna. Whether herposure was genuine or a well-practiced mask remained uncertain.


    ¡°And who is this?¡± Jade asked sharply.


    Ethanced his fingers with Brenna¡¯s. ¡°My fianc¨¦e. Brenna Harper.¡±


    ¡°A Harper?¡± Jade sneered. Her eyes flicked to Ernst, noticing the tension in his posture.


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    ¡°She¡¯s my sister,¡± Ernst confirmed.


    Brenna met the woman¡¯s stare evenly. ¡°Miss Hewitt.¡±


    Not far away, Sabine, Fay, and Isabe watched the scene unfold. Though a bit scared, they were also somewhat excited. It was clear Jade disliked Brenna. Perhaps she would get rid of Brenna on the spot.


    They even expected a confrontation between Jade and Brenna. If Jade managed to defeat Brenna, they would get their revenge.


    The three exchanged knowing looks. Jade¡¯s hostility toward Brenna was impossible to miss.


    After a brief exchange of nces, all three smirked.


    Sabine leaned in, whispering to Fay and Isabe, ¡°Miss Hewitt is powerful; she¡¯s from the Ward Gang¡ªthe biggest mafia gang in Norview. Brenna doesn¡¯t stand a chance against her.¡±


    Fay and Isabe struggled to hide their grins. Finally, someone strong enough to put Brenna in her ce had appeared.


    Seizing the moment, Isabe stepped forward and said, ¡°Brenna, what¡¯s with the attitude? Do you really have to be so rude? You should show Miss Hewitt some respect.¡±


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 Chapter 414

    ?Chapter 414:


    Sabine also approached and spoke up. ¡°Apologize to her right now, Brenna. Miss Hewitt isn¡¯t like the rest of us. You can¡¯t just treat her however you want. You have no idea what it will cost you if you offend her.¡±


    She wanted to mention that Jade had her sights set on Ethan and that Brenna should step aside. However, unwilling to risk offending Ethan, she kept that part to herself.


    Brenna almost admired the nerve it took for Sabine to mock her in front of Ernst. Why wasn¡¯t she afraid that Ernst would be angry at what she had just said?


    Jade¡¯s lips curled at Sabine¡¯s behavior. So this was Brenna¡¯s future sister-inw? Sabine clearly disliked Brenna and was making things difficult for her. ¡°Ernst,¡± Brenna said tly, ¡°your girlfriend is helping an outsider make things difficult for me.¡±


    Ernst¡¯s face darkened. He red at Sabine, his voice sharp. ¡°Why are you interfering? This is none of your business.¡±


    Sabine shrank back, scrambling for words. ¡°I¡¯m actually trying to protect her! The Hewitts could crush the Harpers like ants. There¡¯s no need for the Harper family to offend the Hewitt family just because of her.¡±


    Seizing the moment, Jade slid her arm through Ethan¡¯s and purred, ¡°At least I bring something to the table. What does your little girlfriend do besides take up space?¡±


    Ethan peeled her off coldly. ¡°I can handle my own business. The Ward family is powerful, but their influence isn¡¯t as strong as you think. As for you? You don¡¯t even hold much sway in your own family.¡±


    Jade¡¯s lips tightened. Ethan had struck a nerve. Her full name was Jade Ward Hewitt, though few people knew that. Her grandfather, Kyle Ward, had been an infamous crime lord. While she was one of his more capable grandchildren, real power in the family had never been hers to im.


    Ethan had figured this out during his recent dealings with them. The four great families of Shirie were unaware of this, assuming she held great sway in the Ward family.


    Jade¡¯s interest in Ethan wasn¡¯t just about affection. His empire might be the key she needed to take control of the family business.


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    Humiliation surged through Jade, fueling her hatred for Brenna. But she was nothing if not patient. She took a calm, measured step back and said in a low voice, ¡°Deny it all you like, but my help saved your life this time.¡±


    Sabine suspected Jade wanted Ethan to repay that favor with a wedding ring. But it was obvious Ethan had no intention of such a thing.


    Seizing the opportunity, Sabine said, ¡°Mr. Mitchell, you should show some gratitude toward Miss Hewitt for saving you. Otherwise, you¡¯d look ungrateful.¡±


    Ernst¡¯s eyes narrowed. How dare Sabine say something like that to Ethan?


    ¡°No one asked for your opinion,¡± he said sharply to Sabine.


    Jade¡¯s eyes lit up with interest as she looked at Sabine. She believed she could be useful to her. ¡°Mr. Harper, who is this? Is she your fianc¨¦e?¡±


    Sabine grinned before Ernst had a chance to respond. ¡°We¡¯ll announce our engagement soon! You must attend our engagement party, Miss Hewitt.¡±


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 Chapter 415

    ?Chapter 415:


    Saying this, she clung to Ernst¡¯s arm.


    Ernst remained silent. He didn¡¯t want Jade to know about his family affairs, so he neither confirmed nor denied Sabine¡¯s words.


    Nearby, the staff were setting up a grill, and the seafood was brought over to the table. Crates of vintage wine were also arranged nearby.


    Jade pped her hands with feigned cheer. ¡°Let¡¯s move past the conflict. We¡¯re here to celebrate our partnership, aren¡¯t we?¡±


    She fixed her gaze on Ethan. ¡°Since I saved your life in Norview, you owe me. Grill with me. That¡¯s all I¡¯m asking. It¡¯s not too much, right?¡±


    Ethan nodded in response.


    Jadeughed. ¡°Good. After we eat, we¡¯ll go fishing in international waters.¡±


    As the others headed toward the grill, Jade stepped in front of Brenna to stop her. Then, turning to Ethan, she said, ¡°I want to have a word with Miss Harper in private. You wouldn¡¯t mind, would you?¡±


    Ethan subtly nodded before walking away.


    Jade strolled to the edge of the deck with Brenna. Her fingers curled around the railing as she stared at the waves. ¡°You haven¡¯t been engaged to Ethan yet, right?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Brenna answered calmly.


    ¡°Good. That means we¡¯repeting fairly,¡± Jade said, a wider smile spreading across her face. She then leaned back against the railing. ¡°I can also pursue Ethan, right?¡±


    Brenna studied her. Jade¡¯s audacity surprised her.


    ¡°Are you asking me to step aside?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Would you?¡± Jade challenged.


    Brenna chuckled. ¡°Not a chance. Ethan is one of a kind. To me, he¡¯s the best man in the world. Miss Hewitt, you¡¯ve got good taste.¡±


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    In Braeden¡¯s office, he transmitted the newly received system to the relevant units. ¡°First, update the special forces¡¯ system for testing. If the performance checks out, deploy it to all helicopters.¡±


    As he set down the phone, another call came through. He answered immediately. ¡°Braeden speaking.¡±


    ¡°Miss Harper¡¯s signal dropped in international waters,¡± said the voice on the other end urgently. ¡°Herst known coordinates have been sent to your phone. Beyond that point, we can¡¯t track her or guarantee protection. We request immediate backup.¡±


    Aboard a speedboat, Morton Sugden watched the distant luxury yacht through his binocrs. His grip tightened as the vessel disappeared from view. As an agent, he understood the stakes. Brenna wasn¡¯t just a civilian; she was a genius in aerospace design, a national asset. Losing her was not an option.


    Braeden¡¯s screen lit up with coordinates and a grainy image of the yacht. Within moments, he ryed the information to a special opsmander. ¡°Names of everyone on board,¡± he demanded, pen in hand.


    Morton¡¯s voice crackled over the satellite link as he listed the passengers. When the call ended, he waited for orders.


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 Chapter 416

    ?Chapter 416:


    On the yacht, the armed personnel stood with weapons raised, eyes scanning the horizon. One guard held a tablet disying live radar imaging, capable of detecting movement within a three-hundred-mile radius.


    Jade approached the guard watching the radar. ¡°Status?¡±


    ¡°All clear. No vessels or aircraft within 300 miles. Underwater scans are clean, too,¡± the guard reported.


    Satisfied, Jade turned back to the guests with a perfect smile. ¡°Ladies, I invited the heirs to discuss a business deal.¡± She gestured to thevish spread. ¡°Please, enjoy yourselves while we hold a quick discussion inside. It won¡¯t take long.¡±


    Ethan and Jayceon exchanged nces. Why haul them out to international waters just for a business deal? Something felt off.


    Though cautious, neither Denis nor Ernst raised objections. They had been informed beforehand that the business deal promised tens of billions in annual profits¡ªa lure too strong to resist.


    Anyone would have found it hard to walk away from that kind of money. Isabe beamed and quickly said, ¡°We¡¯ll take care of the barbecue! It¡¯ll be ready by the time you¡¯re done.¡±


    Ethan met Brenna¡¯s eyes, then gave her hand a light squeeze. He discreetly pressed a small, solid object into her palm. ¡°Grill me some bluefin tuna. It¡¯s my favorite.¡±


    Brenna nodded, closing her fingers around the object. Since when did Ethan care about food? There was clearly a hidden meaning behind his words. Bluefin tuna came with a steep price tag, especially when flown in fresh from abroad. Its rich taste and rarity only drove the cost higher.


    But for the four great families, it was nothing more than amon ingredient. Nearby, Sabine, Isabe, and Fay all drooled at the sight of the prized fish. It was a luxury they had only ever dreamed of tasting before.


    Jade¡¯sugh rang out. ¡°You seem so reluctant to leave Brenna¡¯s side, Mr. Mitchell. Don¡¯t worry; you will be back in no time.¡±


    Ethan walked past her without so much as a nce. Then the others followed him into the cabin.


    The door shut with a firm click. Two armed guards quickly took position outside. Their posture left no doubt¡ªno one was getting through.


    The object Ethan had given Brenna was a micro inte. She put it in her ear and pressed the recording button.


    She recognized the tech immediately. It was military-grade. Braeden had gifted her a set after their work on the helicopter project.


    At the banquet table, the women faced an extravagant disy of seafood. A whole bluefin tunay in the center. Around it, exotic shellfish and glistening prawns were arranged, all ready for the grill.


    Sabine, Fay, and Isabe didn¡¯t know how to cook.


    Isabe nced at the spread of seafood and seasonings. ¡°What are we supposed to do with all this?¡±


    Sabine looked just as lost. Her barbecues with colleagues usually involvedmb or beef. Nothing like this.


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 Chapter 417

    ?Chapter 417:


    None of them had the slightest clue what to do with these ingredients.


    All three watched as Brenna expertly carved a slice from the tuna.


    ¡°Stop pretending you know anything about these ingredients,¡± Isabe said sarcastically. She knew Brenna better than the others. ¡°You¡¯re just faking it. You¡¯ve never eaten this before. The Barretts could never afford stuff like this. There¡¯s no way you actually know what you¡¯re doing.¡±


    Brenna let out a coldugh and brushed off Isabe¡¯s jab. ¡°These ingredients are high-quality. We don¡¯t need to do much. We can season it with salt and pepper, just like we usually do withmb.¡±


    Isabe, Sabine, and Fay burst intoughter. Isabe¡¯sugh was the loudest. ¡°Quit pretending you know everything, alright? If you don¡¯t know what you¡¯re doing, just say so. Why put on an act?¡±


    Sabine snorted, narrowing her eyes with disdain. ¡°You almost had us fooled. You looked like you eat tuna every day. But it turns out you¡¯re just treating the tuna likemb. That¡¯s hrious.¡±


    Brenna raised an eyebrow. ¡°Do you know how to handle it, then?¡±


    Isabe felt a sense of satisfaction. Ever since she learned Brenna was the Harper family¡¯s daughter, she had carried a deep envy. Today, she finally had a moment to mock her.


    ¡°I don¡¯t,¡± she admitted. ¡°But at least I¡¯m not faking it like you. No matter what you do, you¡¯ll neverpare to Miss Hewitt. She can actually help Mr. Mitchell with his business. You¡¯ll be dumped by Mr. Mitchell in no time.¡±


    She mimicked Brenna¡¯s motions and sliced the tuna, but ended up with ragged, uneven chunks.


    In contrast, Brenna¡¯s cuts were clean. Each slice preserved the fish¡¯s texture. She diced the tuna into perfect two-centimeter cubes, then scooped up spices with a tasting spoon, sniffed each one carefully, and added them to the marinade with measured precision.


    ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± Brenna said. ¡°The Barretts never served this. But at the Harpers¡¯, I¡¯ve eaten it a few times. I¡¯ve watched the chefs prepare it up close.¡±


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    Isabe shot her a venomous re, then said to the others, ¡°Listen to her brag! A few fancy dinners, and now she¡¯s a food expert?¡±


    Sabine stared down at her own poorly cut fish, unsure of what to do next. She sneered at Brenna. ¡°It¡¯s not like you¡¯re some tuna master. Once Ethan dumps you for Jade, you¡¯ll be nothing. And when I marry Ernst, I¡¯ll make sure everyone sees who you really are.¡±


    After a pause, she added, ¡°You just like to pretend you¡¯re impressive. With the Harpers¡¯ money, you can fake everything. But you can¡¯t fool me.¡±


    Her eyes swept over Brenna¡¯s face. ¡°That perfect face of yours? It¡¯s probably fake, too.¡±


    She hacked the fish into uneven pieces. Without thinking, she threw them into a bowl and reached for spices, relying on hermb marinade experience to guide her.


    Fay, who held no real grudge against Brenna, remained quiet and simply let the drama unfold.


    Brenna said inly, ¡°I¡¯m the daughter of the Harper family. That is not something fake; that¡¯s a fact. But the rest of you,ing from average families, keep putting on an act as if it¡¯ll fool anyone. You have no money, yet you squeeze into designer brands. You are pretending, too. You desperately cling to wealthy men, hoping to be members of rich families.¡±


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 Chapter 418

    ?Chapter 418:


    She turned to Fay and Sabine and continued, ¡°You have taken sses to make yourselves look like you are from refined families, right? The whole point of those sses is putting on an act. But let¡¯s be real. You couldn¡¯t even pass the basics. You don¡¯t carry yourselves like socialites. Real ones wouldn¡¯t be so clueless about how to handle bluefin tuna.¡±


    After a pause, she added, ¡°The truth stings, doesn¡¯t it? You really think these rich yboys are looking for love? They collect women like watches. So ask yourselves: are you the one they¡¯ll keep, or just something they wear for show? Deep down, you already know the answer.¡±


    Sabine and Fay froze for a moment, then their expressions twisted with rage. Yet no rebuttal came. Brenna had been right. The etiquette sses, the polished manners, and the carefully crafted charm were all aimed at one thing: marrying into wealth.


    Sabine had been so close to that goal, yet Ernst kept dying the matter of marriage.


    Fay¡¯s nails dug into her palms. Jayceon barely looked at her anymore. His attention was on Ellie and her son.


    Both women seethed.


    Brenna then turned to Isabe. ¡°Isabe, wasn¡¯t your wardrobe malfunction at my party a little revealing? You were an A-cup then. But now, at least a D. Impressive work. Tell me, does Denis appreciate the upgrade?¡±


    Isabe¡¯s grip on the knife tightened until her knuckles turned white. ¡°One more word, and I¡¯ll carve that smirk off your face.¡±


    Brenna barely nced at the de, its edge glinting. ¡°You won¡¯t. You don¡¯t have it in you to do something like that.¡±


    The calmness in her voice cut deeper than any knife.


    Isabe snorted and mmed the knife onto the table. It was true. She didn¡¯t have it in her.


    As she turned, she caught Sabine and Fay staring at her chest, curiosity written all over their faces.


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    She snapped, ¡°What are you looking at? Look away!¡±


    The two quickly averted their eyes. Sabine cleared her throat and took the initiative to change the subject. ¡°Let¡¯s make something for Miss Hewitt. I¡¯m just not sure what she likes.¡±


    Fay nodded quickly, eager to move on from the earlier topic. ¡°We can grill a few of everything for her. That should cover it.¡±


    The yacht spanned 126 meters. Its three-tiered decks rose cleanly above the waves.


    The top deck was expansive. Ethan and the others settled into plush sofas arranged in a wide circle. Each leaned back with ease, their arms draped along the cushions, a disy of dominance.


    Across from them, Jade sat alone.


    Except for Denis, the men looked cold. Jayceon and Ernst upied adjacent seats, their legs crossed with practiced ease. When Ernst pulled out his cigarette case, he offered cigarettes to Jayceon and Ethan, ignoring Denis.


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 Chapter 419

    ?Chapter 419:


    As the smoke drifted upward, the three men¡¯s eyes settled on Jade.


    This trio had bonded since childhood. Denis was not part of their circle. He didn¡¯t like them, either. Even if Ernst had offered him a cigarette, he wouldn¡¯t have epted it.


    ¡°Do you really have to do that?¡± Denis snapped, nostrils ring. ¡°Smoking in ady¡¯s presence is very rude.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s icy re sliced through Denis like a de. No words were needed. The warning in his eyes was enough to shut him up.


    Among the four, Denis was the shortest in height, least powerful, and poorest in looks. He seethed with frustration, but there was nothing he could do about it. Still, this meeting gave him a sliver of hope. If he could win Jade¡¯s favor, his family¡¯s status might be elevated. His family would be the second most powerful among the four great families. When that happened, Ernst and Jayceon wouldn¡¯t dare look down on him.


    ¡°Miss Hewitt,¡± he said with a smile, ¡°what kind of business are you proposing? The Wagner family is more than willing to back any venture you bring to the table.¡±


    Jayceon didn¡¯t bother hiding his disgust. ¡°You¡¯re pathetic.¡±


    ¡°What did you just say?¡± Denis said, his face red with rage.


    Jayceon scoffed, ¡°You heard me the first time.¡±


    Ernst let out a cold chuckle and added fuel to the fire. ¡°Why stop there? If you want to curry favor with Miss Hewitt that badly, you might as well propose to her right now.¡±


    Denis shot to his feet, fists clenched. Then, he took a step forward, ready to hit Ernst.


    ¡°Enough.¡± Jade quickly stopped them. ¡°Gentlemen, let¡¯s move on to real business.¡±


    At her cue, some people wheeled in a small table. There were crystalline substances, multicolored pills, and white powder on the table.


    The men knew exactly what they were looking at.


    The rest on g???????¦Í?????????????


    Jade watched them carefully. Ethan¡¯s frown deepened, his displeasure obvious. Ernst lifted an eyebrow and looked at her with hostility. Jayceon chuckled coldly, his toneced with disdain.


    Only Denis nodded faintly, his eyes showing even a hint of excitement.


    Once the staff had left, a man in a white suit entered the room and greeted Jade respectfully.


    It was Viper.


    None of the four men looked surprised. Viper, one of Shirie¡¯s top gang leaders, was well-known for his ties to international syndicates. His presence here wasn¡¯t unexpected.


    Ethan had long figured out who had been pulling Viper¡¯s strings.


    Viper took a seat beside Jade, and his gaze swept across the room like he owned the ce. He viewed the four men not as equals but as subordinates. There was no politeness in his voice.


    ¡°There¡¯s a business deal on the table. It¡¯ll pull in at least thirty billion a year. Are you interested?¡±


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 Chapter 420

    ?Chapter 420:


    He scanned the men¡¯s faces with a condescending gaze, noticing that Ethan focused solely on his cigar, ignoring his words. Jayceon leaned back in his seat, clearly unimpressed. Ernst kept his lips sealed, offering no reaction.


    Only Denis spoke up. ¡°Drug business is risky. Viper, why aren¡¯t you running it yourself? From what I hear, your resources are solid, and your profits are already high. Why pass such a good opportunity to us?¡±


    Jayceon exhaled a slow smoke ring and arrogantly said, ¡°So this is the big business you¡¯re pitching? Count me out. I am not¡ª¡±


    Jade¡¯s smile faded, and she bluntly said, ¡°You¡¯re in a power struggle with your brother, aren¡¯t you? From what I¡¯ve gathered, Jayceon, your odds don¡¯t look good. If you cooperate with me, the Hewitt family can help you secure the CEO seat at the Russell Corporation.¡±


    Jayceon¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°My family¡¯s affairs are none of your business.¡±


    Meanwhile, Denis was secretly pleased by Jayceon¡¯s attitude. If the Russell family stayed out of this, that was one lesspetitor for him. He said, ¡°Miss Hewitt, could you answer the questions I just asked?¡±


    Jade held back a frown. The Wagners, with their lowest status among the four great families, were far from her ideal business partners. What she really wanted was for Ethan to cooperate with her. After all, the Mitchells had military connections.


    Ethan tapped the ash from his cigarette and said calmly, ¡°Denis, Viper¡¯s operation hasn¡¯t exactly been thriving. Many of his men were captured. It looks like hiswork has already copsed. That is probably why he is asking us to do this. He takes us for fools.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not the right way to put it. This business deal is lucrative. We can get things from this,¡± Denis said.


    Jade asked Ethan, ¡°Ethan, are you interested? Just imagine what ourbined resources could achieve.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s eyes locked onto Jade. He flicked ash from his cigarette and said, ¡°You do realize I could have your entire operation raided, right?¡±


    Check exclusive content g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í???s


    Jade didn¡¯t doubt it. Ethan¡¯s ties to the military meant one call to his father could bring her drugwork crashing down.


    Still, she believed Ethan wouldn¡¯t do it. To her, he wasn¡¯t bound by rigid principles. He was tough but pragmatic. In her eyes, he was willing to bend the rules when it suited him.


    After all, no one could build an empire like his without getting their hands dirty.


    ¡°You won¡¯t do that,¡± Jade said calmly.


    Ethan watched his cigarette burn, the smoke curling between them. He said, ¡°How do you know I won¡¯t do that?¡±


    He waved his satellite phone and continued, ¡°I¡¯ve got satellite coverage anywhere. One word from me, and your shipment will be in military hands.¡±


    Jade¡¯s manicured nails dug into her palms. One call from that damn phone could end everything for her.


    The next second, she burst intoughter. ¡°You might want to reconsider. This partnership works in both our favor. But if you refuse¡ª¡±


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 Chapter 421

    ?Chapter 421:


    ¡°What then?¡± Ethan asked, unimpressed. ¡°You¡¯re going to kill me or something?¡±


    Seeing Ethan like this, Viper rapped hard on the window behind him, and the signal brought armed guards into view.


    ¡°You only brought a woman here,¡± Viper sneered, gesturing to the soldiers outside. ¡°But we have an army.¡±


    Jayceon and Ernst exchanged nces. With a grave expression, the former asked coldly, ¡°Is this your idea of discussing business with us? Pointing guns at our heads?¡±


    Jade¡¯s lips curled into a slow, sinister smile. ¡°Why must you put it that way? This is simply¡­ a negotiation.¡±


    Her eyes remained fixed on Ethan, searching his face for the smallest trace of warmth. One gentle word or a flicker of kindness, and she might back down. However, Ethan didn¡¯t waver. He stared back at her. ¡°This isn¡¯t how real business is done. Our families don¡¯t need your drug money.¡±


    Viper¡¯sposure cracked. ¡°So that¡¯s a no to Miss Hewitt? You¡¯ll never see a hundred-billion opportunity like this again. You better consider this carefully, Mr. Mitchell.¡±


    His gaze slid to Jayceon and Ernst, hoping to stir their ambition and make them take the offer willingly.


    Ethan¡¯s voice dropped, low and lethal. ¡°Do you even know who you¡¯re talking to? You think you¡¯re offering me a great opportunity? A gutter rat like you doesn¡¯t even belong in this room.¡±


    Viper was pissed off by Ethan¡¯s words. His hand went to his gun.


    Jade quickly stopped him and said, ¡°We are just talking business here. In business, it¡¯s essential that both sides enter into the deal of their own free will.¡±


    Sensing the others¡¯ hesitation, Denis saw an opportunity for his family. He leaned forward and dered, ¡°Miss Hewitt, they only see the risk, but I see the opportunity. My family will cooperate with you.¡±


    The other three turned to him, thinking he had lost his mind. Denis dared to agree to do this kind of illegal business, and in front of them, no less. It seemed he wasn¡¯t afraid of them reporting him to the authorities at all. They believed Denis was a fool.


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    But Denis didn¡¯t flinch. He stared back at them with defiance. In his eyes, they were nothing but hypocrites. He was convinced they would be sneaking off to Jade and epting the deal the moment this meeting ended.


    Only fools would turn down money. Those three could pretend to be noble now, but greed would always win in the end.


    Jade¡¯s mood lifted slightly. Denis wasn¡¯t her ideal choice, but the Wagners held some influence. This partnership might turn out better than expected.


    Still, her eyes kept drifting to Ethan. She wasn¡¯t ready to give up on persuading him to cooperate with her.


    However, Ethan remained impassive.


    Jade believed Ethan had cooperated with cartels before. Maybe he was just weighing the risks and needed time to make up his mind.


    After a long pause with no further offers, Jade shifted gears. She smoothly pulled out some documents and said, ¡°I have legitimate ventures as well, you three. We can still be business partners.¡±


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 Chapter 422

    ?Chapter 422:


    Jade spread the files across the table¡ªelectronics procurements, EV battery contracts, venture capital proposals. Every deal was clean, legal, and lucrative.


    Ernst reached for the top folder. A CEO like him would never ignore potential profit, no matter how many orders hispany already had.


    Even Ethan flipped through some documents with interest. His sharp eyes quickly scanned the pages. Two proposals seemed promising.


    Jade masked her satisfaction. She knew Ethan would consider working with her in legal business deals. After all, he owed her for saving him before.


    Brenna could hear the soft murmur of Ethan and the others¡¯ conversation through her earpiece, the words clear, but the specifics of their ¡°business¡± remained unclear. The vague references hinted strongly at something illegal. She took out her phone and checked it. Her satellite phone¡¯s signal remained strong.


    Brenna weighed her options and decided to observe the situation for a while. She recognized the challenges of reporting the uwful business from international waters¡ªresponse times could be dyed.


    And if Jade¡¯s people discovered her little tricks, everyone on this yacht would be in danger.


    Her eyes surveyed the scene, counting at least thirty armed guards. She wouldn¡¯t be able to take them on even with her gun.


    Confrontation was not an option.


    Brenna took over one side of the grill, and the other three women gathered opposite her.


    Sabine was pleased with herself, the enticing smell adding to her sense of satisfaction as she convinced herself she had surpassed Brenna in grilling the food.


    She mocked Brenna, ¡°Where¡¯s that confidence now? You imed expertise with cooking the tuna. But you¡¯ve turned it into trash. Even a roadside vendor could do better than you.¡±


    Brenna wore a faint smile, ignoring her.


    Read exclusive content at g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s


    Seeing that, Sabine let out a snort.


    The moment was interrupted as Jade emerged with Ethan and the others. She was walking alongside Ethan, a victorious grin spread across her face. Ethan, wearing a smile, exchanged words with Jade, even shaking hands with her.


    ¡°To a prosperous coboration!¡± Jade eximed. ¡°And remember, I helped youst time. You owe me a meal for that.¡±


    ¡°Of course,¡± Ethan responded graciously.


    Brenna observed them with a blend of curiosity and doubt. Hadn¡¯t Jade been talking about some sort of shady dealings earlier? Why had Ethan agreed to work with her?


    Catching Brenna¡¯s gaze, Jade misread it, thinking Brenna was jealous. She tightened her hold on Ethan¡¯s hand with a smug smile, intending to upset Brenna.


    Brenna maintained a calm expression as she turned her focus to the skewers. Ethan felt a sharp twinge in his chest as he noticed Brenna¡¯s reaction and immediately withdrew his hand.


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    ?Chapter 423:


    Jade let out augh and teased, ¡°Why so nervous, Mr. Mitchell? It was just a friendly handshake.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s lips thinned into a tight line as he pulled out a tissue and meticulously wiped his hand.


    Jade¡¯s smile faded, reced by a look of displeasure. ¡°What are you suggesting by doing this? Do you think I¡¯m filthy?¡±


    Jayceon¡¯sughter rang out from behind, harsh and mocking, while Ernst struggled to suppress his amusement.


    Ethan tossed the tissue aside, avoiding Jade¡¯s gaze as he moved to Brenna¡¯s side and asked gently, ¡°Is it ready?¡±


    The warmth in his voice and the softness of his gaze could melt any heart. Jade¡¯s face contorted with a mix of rage and jealousy as she observed their interaction.


    Meanwhile, Viper, who had been standing near Jade, kept his cold stare fixed on Ethan and Brenna.


    Jayceon and Ernst joined in at the grill, ready to help with the barbecue. Sabine and Fay yfully served their grilled dishes to their boyfriends, their faces lit with sweet smiles.


    Brenna, more reserved, simply offered one of her skewers to Ethan, asking, ¡°Care to try?¡±


    Ethan epted eagerly,plimenting it after a taste. ¡°Not bad,¡± he said. He then reached for an uncooked skewer in Brenna¡¯s hand. ¡°I¡¯ll take over the grilling,¡± he said. ¡°Let me show you how.¡±


    Brenna hesitated, feeling uncertain. She hadn¡¯t tried any of the skewers herself, and Ethan didn¡¯t look like he was enjoying the food. Could it be that Ethan was just being polite with his earlierpliment?


    Before Brenna could think further, she saw that Ethan had already devoured a whole skewer of fish.


    Curious, Brenna sampled another skewer herself, only to spit it out instantly.


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    ¡°This tastes terrible,¡± she said.


    She looked at Ethan apologetically. ¡°You didn¡¯t have to force yourself to eat that.¡±


    Ethan responded with a gentle smile and a look of deep affection. ¡°How could I possibly let my sweetheart¡¯s first attempt at grilling go to waste?¡±


    Brenna sighed, a hint of resignation in her voice. ¡°I grilled it just like how the chef at home always did it.¡±


    Laughing softly, Ethan began to sprinkle some spices on the ingredients. ¡°Try adding some cumin powder,¡± he suggested, showing her. ¡°And a bit of chili kes for spice. Make sure it¡¯s evenly distributed on each side.¡±


    Watching closely, Brenna mimicked his actions, seasoning a new skewer.


    From a distance, Jade watched them, her feelings of jealousy intensifying with each of Ethan¡¯s tender gestures toward Brenna.


    Viper leaned in, his voice a low whisper filled with menace. ¡°Find an opportunityter to kill that woman.¡±


    Jade didn¡¯t speak, her gaze turning dark.


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 Chapter 424

    ?Chapter 424:


    Denisforted her, saying, ¡°Don¡¯t worry; I know how to deal with situations like this. You can have someone rape her. After that, Ethan wouldn¡¯t even spare her a nce.¡±


    Jade¡¯s gaze sharpened as she observed the cozy interaction between Ethan and Brenna, feeling a twinge of difort with every affectionate look they exchanged.


    She walked confidently to Ethan¡¯s side, positioning herself firmly next to him. Her move made it clear she waspeting for his attention, challenging Brenna without a word.


    ¡°Ethan,¡± Jade said sweetly, an unusual tone in her voice. ¡°Would you show me how to do that? I¡¯m eager to pick up some of your grilling techniques.¡±


    At the ingredient station, Denis and Viper grouped together just as Isabe joined Denis, pushing her skewers toward him with hopeful eyes. Denis sampled her skewers and offered a brief nod, saying, ¡°Not bad.¡±


    Isabe turned to Brenna with a smirk and said, ¡°Looks like I¡¯ve got the upper hand in cooking! You¡¯re not as perfect as you think, Brenna.¡±


    As Jade neared the grill, Sabine and Fay swiftly walked over to her, offering their skewers with sweet smiles.


    ¡°Miss Hewitt,¡± they said. ¡°We made these just for you. Please, have a taste.¡±


    Jade was caught in an awkward moment. She paused with her skewer mid-air as Ethan remained silent, ignoring her.


    The interruption from Sabine and Fay gave Jade the perfect diversion from her embarrassing moment.


    With gracefulposure, she took their skewers, sampled them, and said, ¡°They taste good.¡±


    Sabine grinned, clearly pleased with her cooking. ¡°I¡¯ve practiced a lot atpany events,¡± she said with pride. ¡°Just let us know if you¡¯d like more, Miss Hewitt.¡±


    Jade responded with a slight nod, her eyes darting meaningfully toward Brenna.


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    Taking the hint, Sabine and Fay seized the chance and positioned themselves between Ethan and Brenna, intentionally interrupting their conversation.


    Even though there were three grills avable, they purposely gathered around the one Ethan and Brenna chose.


    Brenna quickly realized their strategy. Pretending to be unaware, she proudly disyed her skewer to Ethan. ¡°Check out this perfect skewer,¡± she said, showing the shiny, cooked meat.


    Her action was a deliberate response. As she maneuvered, the skewer, dripping with sauce, brushed Sabine¡¯s immacte white dress.


    Sabine¡¯s scream cut through the air. ¡°You clumsy idiot!¡± she eximed. ¡°Look what you¡¯ve done to my dress!¡±


    Ethan, meanwhile, seemed unaffected and offered Brenna a skewer. ¡°Try this,¡± he said, his tone hinting at a silent understanding between them.


    Fay swiftly moved out of the way, narrowly avoiding getting stained herself. Seeing the scene unfold, Ethan waved his skewer intentionally near the clean sections of Sabine¡¯s dress.


    Enraged and defeated, Sabine quit her n and stormed away to Ernst, her dress stained,ining, ¡°I didn¡¯t bring extra clothes!¡± Her initial joy ofing here waspletely gone.


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    ?Chapter 425:


    Ernst frowned, turning his undercooked skewer over the mes, his attention stolen by Brenna and Ethan¡¯s cozy moment nearby. The duo was all smiles, their affectionate gestures evident. They didn¡¯t seem to care about having ruined Sabine¡¯s dress at all.


    ¡°Why did you have to interfere like that?¡± Ernst¡¯s frustration erupted, determined not to interfere with Brenna¡¯s happiness. ¡°Does Miss Hewitt really need you to do something like that for her?¡±


    His gaze hardened, growing cold. ¡°I can¡¯t understand why you keep provoking Brenna. If you still want to be with me, you need to stop that.¡±


    Sabine¡¯s lip trembled slightly. ¡°But she ruined my dress!¡± she eximed, her voice growing more frantic. ¡°How can you still defend her like this?¡±


    Ernst merely grunted, dismissing herint as he concentrated on achieving the perfect char on his skewer.


    Left with no choice, Sabine scrubbed desperately at the stains, but they clung to the fabric, refusing to budge.


    Sabine nced at Jade, hoping for some sympathy but finding none. Jade¡¯splete indifference to her situation was painfully obvious.


    At that moment, it hit her with full force¡ªshe must have seemed foolish to Jade, failing at such a simple n.


    Humiliated, Sabine faced Brenna and, with a dramatic sweep of her arm, deliberately tipped over a tub of sauce, sending a flood of condiment spilling toward Brenna.


    Sabine said bitterly, ¡°This is what you deserve, bitch.¡±


    However, Ethan quickly sprang into action, pulling Brenna out of the way of the oing mess. His arm wrapped around her in a protective hold.


    A faint smile flickered across Ethan¡¯s face. He was clearly aware of Sabine¡¯s intent. In response, he purposefully knocked over a nearby sauce container, drenching Sabine in its contents.


    Brenna couldn¡¯t hold back herughter, her voice dripping with mock concern. ¡°Oh, that stain looks rather permanent.¡±


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    Her amusement was obvious, her enjoyment of the situation barely concealed. ¡°Seems like karma to me,¡± Brenna added, watching Sabine¡¯s horrified reaction to her newly stained attire.


    Ernst¡¯s quiet disapproval spoke volumes as he shot Sabine a dismissive nce, then turned his attention back to the grill, making it clear that he was not going to help her.


    Sabine, outraged, cried out, ¡°Mr. Mitchell, how could you do this?¡±


    Without missing a beat, Ethan responded, ¡°Did you think I¡¯d just stand by while you tried to cause trouble for my woman? An insult to Brenna is an insult to me. Did you really expect me to just let that slide?¡±


    Brenna nodded in agreement, her contentment evident.


    Jade¡¯s nails dug into her palms as Ethan¡¯s address of Brenna as ¡°my woman¡± slipped through the air with deliberate provocation. Every endearment between themnded like a p against her very public affections.


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 Chapter 426

    ?Chapter 426:


    Was this his way of refusing her?


    Jade¡¯s gaze turned to Brenna, sharp as daggers. The intent behind her narrowed eyes was unmistakable. She wanted her gone.


    A subtle flick of Jade¡¯s eyes sent Viper drifting closer. He caught the murderous implication at once. Her order was clear. However, with Ethan and Ernst near Brenna, any move would have to wait. He needed to take action when Brenna was alone.


    Brenna was oblivious to the coiled threat and only had her mind on Braeden¡¯s promise. Were his people sent to protect her closely? If not, had they done something else to ensure her safety?


    Her thoughts shattered as Jayceon appeared across the grill, with Fay clinging to his arm.


    Brenna couldn¡¯t help noticing Jayceon¡¯s skill at the grill. His movements were smooth and precise. The skewers came off perfectly cooked and seasoned just right. It was obvious he had done this plenty of times before, probably alongside Ethan and Ernst.


    However, there was something Brenna couldn¡¯t understand. Why unt Fay when everyone knew he was supposedly courting Ellie?


    Before Brenna could say anything, Jayceon said, ¡°Ellie has been ghosting me. Even Patrick is keeping his distance. Any idea why?¡±


    The meaning in his words was not so subtle. He must be scared his yboy habits had reached Ellie¡¯s ears. He wanted to know if Brenna had told Ellie anything about it.


    Brenna snapped, ¡°You already have a woman by your side now, Mr. Russell. How could you still think about another woman? Don¡¯t you think Fay might be displeased hearing that?¡±


    Right on cue, Fay pursed her lips and tightened her grip on Jayceon¡¯s arm. ¡°Jayceon, I¡¯m right here. How could you ask about another woman? Am I not enough for you?¡±


    The sweet disy turned Brenna¡¯s stomach.


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    Ethan cast a brief nce at Brenna, then leveled a cold warning stare at Jayceon. Brenna was his woman, and any disrespect toward her would not be tolerated.


    The unspoken message in his gaze was crystal clear.


    Jayceon stiffened, irritation flickering behind his eyes. He had long suspected Brenna was the one who had exposed his womanizing to Ellie, and that was why Ellie had refused to get back together with him.


    He just hadn¡¯t found the time to ask Brenna about the matter before.


    Fay tugged insistently at Jayceon¡¯s arm, demanding his attention.


    One sharp re from Jayceon shut her up instantly. She knew full well that she wasn¡¯t his first choice. She was only here because she had begged him to bring her.


    Jayceon¡¯s original n had been to invite Ellie and Patrick. But after countless ignored calls, Ellie finally picked up, only to reject him outright.


    No amount of sweet-talking could sway Ellie¡¯s refusal.


    That was why Jayceon had brought Fay here.


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 Chapter 427

    ?Chapter 427:


    Catching Ethan¡¯s warning re, Jayceon reined in his temper. ¡°Miss Harper, my feelings for Ellie are real. I¡¯d appreciate it if you stopped turning her against me. Your words have caused misunderstandings between us.¡±


    Brenna saw straight through it. His calm facade couldn¡¯t hide the anger simmering beneath the surface. She wasn¡¯t in the mood to y nice. And Fay¡¯s presence only stoked her frustration.


    She said, ¡°Stop pretending you care about Ellie. You don¡¯t bring a side piece to an important gathering if you¡¯re serious about her. Do you even realize what it means to introduce Fay to your friends and business partners like this?¡±


    Fay smiled smugly, knowing exactly what it meant. Jayceon was sending a message. She was his girlfriend, possibly even his future wife.


    Jayceon¡¯s face darkened. ¡°It means nothing. Fay and I are just friends.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s eyes shed with renewed anger. ¡°Is that so? Because from where I¡¯m standing, you¡¯re making it very clear that Fay is the woman you¡¯ve chosen to stand beside you.¡±


    Jayceon¡¯s temper red. ¡°But Ellie is my son¡¯s mother! If she really wanted nothing to do with me, why keep the child?¡±


    Brenna let out a sharp, humorlessugh before saying, ¡°Your confidence is unbelievable. Ellie¡¯s decision to keep the child is her own; it has nothing to do with you. Don¡¯t tter yourself. She could just get her son a stepfather. You¡¯re hardly indispensable. You can forget about getting back together with her.¡±


    Ethan couldn¡¯t stand watching his friend argue with Brenna. From his perspective, Jayceon wasn¡¯t just arguing with her¡ªhe was confronting her.


    He had stood by Jayceon through countless missteps. However, losing Ellie¡¯s love was the consequence of Jayceon¡¯s poor choices; it had nothing to do with Brenna.


    ¡°Enough,¡± Ethan interjected sharply. ¡°What Brenna said is right. Stop questioning her.¡±


    Meanwhile, Ernst slowly shook his head. His disapproval of Jayceon echoed everyone¡¯s sentiment. Bringing Fay here had been a mistake. He believed Jayceon deserved Brenna¡¯s harsh words.


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    Jayceon¡¯s anger erupted further, and he confronted Ethan. ¡°Really? Brenna is new in your life. We have a whole childhood together. Why are you taking her side?¡±


    Ethan¡¯s expression chilled. ¡°She¡¯s going to be my wife. I won¡¯t let anyone bully her¡ªnot even my family, and certainly not a friend.¡±


    Brenna let out a loudugh, her eyes shining with triumph as she looked at Jayceon.


    Overwhelmed by his emotions but needing to appeal to Brenna, Jayceon softened his voice. ¡°Miss Harper, please, I just need you to do one thing¡ªstay out of my business with Ellie.¡±


    ¡°You want me to stay out?¡± Brenna¡¯sughter was tinged with scorn. ¡°Do you even understand what Ellie has been through because of you? You¡¯re nothing but a worthless yboy who haspletely lost the right to be forgiven by her. You say you love her, yet you¡¯ve never stopped messing with other women. Ask yourself, do you truly love her?¡±


    After a pause, she continued, ¡°She pushed her family away for you. She was alone in Norview, giving birth to your child while you weren¡¯t there. You were probably spending time with other women at that time. She has been a single mother, juggling jobs, leaving her baby alone to cry while she worked. And you? Likely indulging in another romantic conquest. You don¡¯t love her; you only love yourself.¡±


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 Chapter 428

    ?Chapter 428:


    Brenna¡¯s gaze was sharp. ¡°You¡¯ve created every crisis she has had to endure. Now, just as she has found some peace, you show up to ruin it once more? What right do you have to be in her life again? She said to me that it was only Patrick¡¯s requests for his father that made here back to the country. If it hadn¡¯t been for his pleas, she would have cut you off entirely.¡±


    Jayceon flinched, his guilt clearly showing. ¡°I know it¡¯s my fault. But I can change. Don¡¯t I deserve the chance to fix things?¡±


    Brenna let out a cold chuckle. ¡°You want a chance? She already gave you one before, but you came here with another woman. You¡¯ve lost any right to another chance.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s words left Jayceon speechless against the unyielding truth.


    With a disdainful nce thrown at Jayceon, Brenna redirected her focus to grilling skewers alongside Ethan.


    Announcing a brief departure, Brenna said to Ethan, ¡°I¡¯m off to the restroom.¡± She handed him the skewers, grabbed her purse, and headed inside the yacht. Viper watched her walk away for a moment before quietly slipping away to follow her.


    Ethan noticed Viper¡¯s movement and spoke quietly into a hidden microphone. ¡°You¡¯ve gotpany. Stay sharp.¡±


    Once inside the yacht, Brenna quickly surveyed the luxurious bathroom and then ensured her privacy by locking the door with a decisive click.


    She took a defensive stance, halting as she heard footsteps approach quietly from outside. Her fingers brushed against the concealed weapons strapped to her thigh¡ªa small pistol and a dagger.


    She believed the locked door should have been enough to ensure her safety.


    However, the sound of a key turning in the lock shattered that sense of security. Brenna¡¯s breath hitched. She hadn¡¯t expected anyone to have keys to the restroom. This was so creepy.


    The door creaked open with cold precision as Viper stepped inside, closing and locking it behind him.


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    Brenna kept one hand hidden as she faced him. ¡°I think you¡¯re lost,¡± she said, her tone deadly calm. ¡°This is the women¡¯s restroom.¡±


    Viper¡¯s smile broadened. ¡°There¡¯s no mistake here, sweetheart. I¡¯m exactly where I need to be,¡± he said confidently.


    He smirked and looked her over slowly. His gaze was filled with dark intentions. ¡°Just curious why Mr. Mitchell is so obsessed with you,¡± said Viper as he advanced slowly towards Brenna, eyeing her cautious stance.


    Aware of her reputation forbat, he recalled that not even Jay¡¯s toughest men could defeat her. He knew she was not easy to deal with.


    Yet, he was unfazed, confident in his superior gunmanship¡ªquick and deadly.


    Brenna remained motionless against the wall as she said casually, ¡°So what?¡±


    Viper held his weapon out with confidence. ¡°Drop the knife. A bullet moves faster than any de. If you have any sense, take off your clothes.¡±


    In response, Brenna revealed her concealed pistol.


    ¡°A gun?¡± Viper¡¯s voice wavered. He was clearly surprised.


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    ¡°In the Harper family, it¡¯s normal to carry firearms,¡± Brenna said coolly.


    Suddenly, a knock sounded from outside, followed by Ethan¡¯s voice calling out, ¡°Brenna, are you in there?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I am here!¡± Without hesitation, Brenna fired, aiming at Viper¡¯s forehead.


    Viper was caught off guard by her decisive action.


    His reaction was too slow, and the bullet was quicker.


    Stunned, he copsed backward, dead.


    Ethan¡¯s panic was unmistakable as he pounded on the door, startled by the gunshot. ¡°Brenna!¡± he shouted.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine,¡± Brenna assured him, stepping past Viper¡¯s body to unlock the door.


    When Ethan stepped inside, he was confronted with the sight of Viper¡¯s lifeless body.


    Just then, security personnel arrived, their guns aimed at Brenna.


    Jade walked over, furious. ¡°You killed him!¡±


    Ethan stepped in front of Brenna, defending her without hesitation, saying, ¡°He got what he deserved for following a woman into the restroom. Brenna only acted in self-defense. If you have a problem with this, take it up with me.¡±


    Jade had badly underestimated Brenna, assuming she would be an easy target for Viper, whosebat skills were usually unrivaled.


    She was confused by the situation. How could Brenna, who seemed so delicate, have been able to kill Viper?


    Viper couldn¡¯t even overpower a woman? So useless!


    The unexpected turn of events left Jade shocked. Her eyes, filled with intense hatred, locked onto Brenna.


    As Vand¡¯s undergroundworks crumbled and key distributors were arrested, Viper¡¯s role in establishing new connections had been crucial. Now, with his death, Jade found herself uncertain about the future of her business.


    Latest chapters g@ln¦Òv??ls?c©–m


    Jade hissed with fury, ¡°You¡¯ll pay for this with your life, Brenna!¡±


    Jade gave a subtle nod, signaling two more gunmen to enter. Their weapons clicked ominously as they loaded them and aimed at Brenna.


    Ethan moved quickly, drawing his gun and pulling Jade over, the cold muzzle pressing against her head. ¡°One move, and she¡¯s dead,¡± he said coldly.


    Jayceon and Ernst, caught off guard by the sudden esction of the situation, stopped at the entrance, watching the tense scene.


    They then reacted immediately, raising their guns in unison, aiming at the armed guards.


    Denis found himself unarmed, regretting hisck of preparation for what was happening. He had really thought this was going to be a simple gathering. In a calcted move, Denis discreetly retreated to the men¡¯s restroom for cover.


    Brenna, meanwhile, positioned herself strategically behind Ethan, her firearm aimed at the opposing gunmen.


    Jade had never expected Ethan to take her hostage. He was gripping her neck tightly, causing her pain without any hint ofpassion.


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    Jade said, ¡°Ethan, what are you doing? Are you truly nning to marry this cold-blooded killer? She just killed a man! Lower your gun; let¡¯s resolve this peacefully.¡±


    Understanding Jade¡¯s merciless nature well, Ethan knew she cared little for the lives of her own crew. Viper¡¯s death didn¡¯t matter to her.


    Her anger was probably driven by his importance to her operations.


    Ethan¡¯s voice was icy as he ordered, ¡°Tell your men to stand down, or I¡¯ll shoot.¡± He increased the pressure of the gun against her head, tilting it. Jade stiffened, fearful of the gun going off.


    ¡°Ethan,¡± she pleaded urgently, ¡°why choose Brenna over me? She¡¯s ruthless, taking lives without hesitation. How can you be at peace being with someone like her? I love you more, and I can help advance your career with my connections. I¡¯m also not as cruel as her. Ethan, choose me. I¡¯m the better choice for you.¡±


    As she saw his indifference, tears welled up in her eyes, and her frustration grew.


    Suddenly, a gunshot rang out as Ethan fired a warning shot into the wall. ¡°This is yourst chance¡ªdrop your weapons, or I¡¯ll put a bullet in her head.¡± His words were cold, and while he considered his escape options, his grip on the gun remained firm.


    The security team hesitated, torn between giving up their guns and letting Ethan take control of the yacht or resisting and putting their boss¡¯ life in danger. Jayceon and Ernst cautiously moved closer, their weapons ready, eyeing the armed men.


    Running out of patience, Ethan acted decisively and shot Jade in the arm.


    The sound of the gunshot echoed sharply.


    Jade let out a painful cry. ¡°You really shot me?¡± she gasped, staring at Ethan in disbelief. ¡°How dare you shoot me because of her?¡±


    In that instant, any lingering affection she had for him hardened into pure resentment. It was clear that she meant nothing to him.


    ¡°Drop your weapons,¡± Ethan said again.


    With reluctance, the guardsplied, dropping their weapons.


    ¡°Now, leave!¡± Ethan roared.


    Just then, a dark, submarine silhouette slowly emerged beneath the surface of the sea.


    Shadowy figures then appeared, moving like phantoms as they silently climbed the yacht¡¯s sides with wless precision. No one noticed them.


    The first deck had minimal guards, as most had rushed to the upper deck in response to the gunshot, leaving it poorly defended.


    The remaining guards surveyed the vast, empty seascape, seeing no other vessels in sight. They were certain that there was no danger here. They were engrossed in the unfolding drama above as if watching a y.


    But the next second, their mouths¡ª


    Their mouths were covered by gloved hands, and their lives were taken with quick, precise knife cuts to their throats.


    Within moments, the deck was stained with the lifeless bodies of the guards. A group of twelve operatives moved in quiet coordination, heading toward the second deck with weapons drawn and ready.


    Another group of twenty quickly appeared and entered the lower cabins, following Interpol¡¯s intelligence about concealed narcotics caches.


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    A helicopter awaited on the third-level deck¡ªa detail Ethan had noted earlier for their escape.


    ¡°Head to the roof!¡± he said to Brenna. ¡°We¡¯re using the helicopter to leave.¡±


    Jayceon and Ernst quickly helped theirpanions into the helicopter, with Brenna climbing in after them.


    Ethan was thest on the deck, still maintaining his grip on Jade.


    Unexpectedly, Jade¡¯sbat training kicked in.


    Distracted by a look toward Brenna, Ethan felt Jade twist his wrist, forcing his gun to drop loudly onto the deck.


    Before he could react, Jade had another gun pressed against his head. ¡°Step off the helicopter now!¡± Jade¡¯smand cut through the air, her remaining guards rushing away to get guns.


    Brenna acted instinctively, her shot hitting Jade¡¯s arm, which was wielding the gun, causing Jade to walk away from Ethan and seek cover.


    Ethan leaped into the helicopter quickly.


    When the boarding team reached the third deck, the guards reappeared, armed and ready. However, they were swiftly overpowered by a barrage of gunfire from the team, their bodies falling almost immediately. Blood spread beneath the dead bodies.


    ¡°Useless!¡± Jade snarled at her fallen guards,beling them ipetent.


    Ignoring her wound, she sprinted to the railing and jumped, wanting to plunge into the sea to flee. She knew she would be put in jail for a lifetime if the narcotics stash on the yacht were discovered.


    However, divers in ck had already secured the second deck, stopping her escape.


    Trapped, she yelled at Ethan, ¡°I saved your life, and this is how you repay me?¡±


    Everyone on the chopper was confused¡ªthere wasn¡¯t even a ship or boat for miles, yet special forces hade here.


    One diver removed his mask and said, ¡°All clear now. Come down.¡±


    Brenna was the first to jump down from the helicopter, her mind racing with confusion over the situation.


    The others followed, equally stunned by the sudden military intervention. On the deck, Jade relentlessly threw curses, firmly convinced of Ethan¡¯s betrayal.


    The soldiers¡¯ respectful treatment of the others only deepened her frustration, especially in stark contrast to the rough arrest she had endured. They should all be suspects here, yet only she was treated this way. This pointed her toward a grim realization that one of them¡ªEthan, Jayceon, or Ernst¡ªmust have been the one who had reported her.


    She didn¡¯t suspect Brenna because Brenna had no idea she was going to be here before.


    ¡°How foolish I was to save you in Norview!¡± Jade said to Ethan.


    Jade¡¯s tone became even more venomous as she was handcuffed. ¡°You¡¯ll regret this. The Ward family won¡¯t let this go.¡±


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    On the deck, crew members pulled up dark parcels, more than a hundred ck and blue packages, each weighing more than five kilos. Uniformed troops lined them up methodically.


    Ethan watched the officers as they counted the stash, noticing the nces from some of the higher-ups toward his group. It was obvious they were considering what to do with them.


    For Ethan, the situation was disastrous. His association with such a massive amount of illegal goods left him without any believable excuse.


    The idea of Brenna being dragged into this was intolerable, filling him with a deep sense of remorse. He regretted bringing her over this time.


    He attempted to call for help, reaching for his phone, but a corporal snatched it away quickly.


    ¡°This is on me,¡± Ethan whispered to Brenna, crafting a story in his mind where Brenna was innocent, unaware of anything. He resolved to take all the me.


    Before long, a military cruiser appeared on the horizon, apanied by helicopters hovering overhead, their machine guns aimed at them.


    ¡°We¡¯re cooked,¡± Jayceon whispered under his breath.


    Ernst¡¯s face also turned dark. ¡°With all that product? There¡¯s no way they¡¯ll believe we didn¡¯t know anything about it.¡±


    ¡°And Jade even showed us some drug samples earlier in the cabin,¡± Jayceon said grimly. ¡°The security footage will reveal everything. Looks like we¡¯re all heading to prison.¡±


    Ernst said, his concern growing, ¡°Maybe we will even get a death sentence.¡±


    A soldier approached them, clipboard in hand. ¡°Everyone, follow me for questioning,¡± he said.


    Ernst, Jayceon, and Ethan shared a look filled with unease.


    Trailing slightly behind them, Brenna mentally rehearsed her defense, knowing how unbelievable it would sound. Would she be able to convince the interrogators?


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    As they walked, Ethan leaned closer to Brenna, his voice urgent. ¡°Stick to one story¡ªyou only came for the barbecue. Nothing more.¡±


    Brenna quietly nodded, skillfully removing the hidden earpiece and holding it in her hand. She knew the military would eventually find it, so it was better to surrender it willingly than risk being used of hiding it.


    Her judgment proved wise.


    After a night of grueling interrogation at a Shirie military base, Brenna and the others were released by noon the next day.


    It was only upon her release that Brenna discovered the truth behind the operation. The guards protecting her had tipped off the authorities, knowing they couldn¡¯t afford to lose her, a crucial asset in fighter jet design.


    The military, though unable to gather concrete evidence of Jade¡¯s n to harm Brenna, decided it was safer to be cautious and arranged for a secure escort to take Brenna back to her home.


    Each individual was transported back to their respective homes. Ernst and Sabine, having lived together, both returned to Ernst¡¯s apartment.


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    With the door shut behind them, Ernst let out a heavy sigh. ¡°We are done, Sabine. I think we¡¯re not right for each other.¡±


    He spoke in a firm tone, effortlessly tossing his suit jacket onto the couch. The events earlier had only reinforced his thought that Sabine was unable to get along well with Brenna.


    He had finally grasped the worries his mother had expressed earlier. Sabine¡¯s maniptive nature and constant scheming all pointed to one thing¡ªshe was after his money.


    Sabine felt aggrieved, her eyes welling up with tears. Her dress still bore a noticeable stain, yet Ernst had shown no concern for her on their way back. Now, he was even putting an end to their rtionship.


    ¡°Why? Just because of what I said to your sister? I thought I was protecting your interests! She took away your shares and pushed you out of the Harper Group. Don¡¯t you resent her for that?¡±


    Her voice, a mix of anger and confusion, echoed as she asked, ¡°What did I actually do wrong?¡±


    In desperation, she gripped Ernst¡¯s hand.


    Ernst¡¯s expression was one of annoyance. ¡°You know exactly why. Haven¡¯t I exined before? I gave Brenna those shares willingly, and she didn¡¯t force me out. I was the one who chose to sign that agreement. Why me her for my decisions? Yesterday, you sided with her enemies and openly plotted against her. If we got married, you would spend your whole life opposing Brenna. That is not something I want.¡±


    Taken by surprise, Sabine paused, her lip trembling. ¡°I never meant for that to happen. I just couldn¡¯t stand watching her take advantage of you. Let¡¯s not let this cause any more conflict between us. I realize I was wrong. From now on, I¡¯ll make an effort to get along with her. I will even apologize to her if you want me to.¡±


    Sabine was painfully aware that losing Ernst would also mean losing a lifestyle that most could only dream of. Coming from humble beginnings, she was unable to find anyone better than Ernst. She was unwilling to let go of him. Her intentions had always been to help Ernst regain his rightful ce and shares in the Harper Group.


    Now cut off from the Harper Group, Ernst controlled only several smaller firms that, while sessful, didn¡¯t offer nearly the financial return of his previous dividends.


    Sabine reminded herself to be patient and strategic in her tactics.


    It was clear Ernst held Brenna in high regard. Sabotaging their rtionship would be difficult and would demand a more subtle approach.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go and apologize to Brenna today,¡± she said.


    After a brief pause, Ernst gave in. ¡°Please, just try to get along with her. Brenna can be very friendly, as long as she¡¯s not provoked.¡±


    Sabine offered a reassuring smile. ¡°I understand. Why don¡¯t you go rx and take a shower? I¡¯ll prepare some food for you.¡±


    Ernst nodded in agreement. Then, he saw the stains on her dress. ¡°You might want to change out of that dress and take a shower as well.¡±


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    Fortunately, the two bathrooms in his duplex made it possible for them to shower at the same time.


    Meanwhile, after taking a shower, Brenna headed to her room when Julia appeared, offering a te of grapes. ¡°Ms. Harper, Mrs. Harper wants you to prepare for a weekend trip to visit your grandfather. She couldn¡¯t reach you earlier and requested you call her back.¡±


    Brenna responded coolly, ¡°I¡¯ll keep that in mind. Are there any other updates from the household?¡±


    ¡°Everything is fine,¡± Julia replied. ¡°Though Mrs. Harper seemed troubled after her visit with Rosie yesterday. At dinner, she mentioned to your father that Rosie had beenining to your grandfather about you.¡±


    Brenna nodded, having already expected this. Rosie was known for causing drama whenever she felt overlooked.


    Unfamiliar with Luther¡¯s current attitude, Brenna prepared herself for possible criticism during her uing visit to him.


    After calling Giselle, Brenna muted her phone and slept, missing calls from Sabine.


    She woketer to see a series of missed calls from unknown numbers and messages from Greta.


    Brenna was d in a navy blue chiffon blouse that flowed gracefully, paired with matching trousers that danced lightly with her movements. Her white sneakers added a touch of casual aura, while her wavy hair tumbled freely down her back like a waterfall of silk.


    Julia presented the lunchbox with both hands, her expression earnest. ¡°Ms. Harper, everything is ready just as you asked. The dishes were all neatly packed in thermal containers.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Julia,¡± Brenna replied with a cheerful smile, her heart light as she drove toward the Mitchell Group headquarters. The yacht incident had crystallized her thoughts about Ethan¡ªhe was a decent man worth her attention.


    As Brenna entered the soaring, tech-savvy lobby, the lunchbox cradled in her arms, she stepped lightly, taking in her surroundings.


    The Mitchell Group¡¯s office building exuded a futuristic vibe, with sleek humanoid robots gliding through the lobby.


    ¡°Job applicants can proceed to Elevator One for the tenth floor,¡± a female-voiced android announced as Brenna walked past.


    ¡°I am not here to apply for a job,¡± Brenna replied, her gaze lingering on the robots¡¯ impressive design and AI capabilities, especially as one patiently answered questions from eager candidates.


    Behind the front desk, four impably dressed receptionists¡ªtwo men and two women¡ªmaintained perfect smiles, their polished appearances reflecting the Mitchell Group¡¯s ethos.


    Approaching one of the female receptionists, Brenna said coolly, ¡°Excuse me. Could you tell me where Mr. Mitchell¡¯s office is located?¡±


    Four pairs of eyes flicked toward her, momentarily clouded with condescension.


    Yet, professionalism soon took over, and the receptionist said to Brenna, ¡°Miss, do you have an appointment?¡±


    As the receptionist studied Brenna, a flicker of recognition sparked in her expression. Before Brenna could reply, the receptionist¡¯s face brightened. ¡°Are you Brenna Barrett?¡±


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    Brenna scrutinized the woman¡¯s features, a vague familiarity tickling her memory.


    The receptionist added, ¡°I am Mia Cox! I was your ssmate in elementary school. You always sat behind me. During our school days, I chased your perfect scores but never caught up! Do you remember now?¡±


    Recognition washed over Brenna. This cheerful receptionist was indeed her old ssmate. ¡°Mia! What a delightful surprise. You work at the Mitchell Group now?¡±


    ¡°I was freshly graduated from Shirie University,¡± Mia said, her pride evident. ¡°I beat out hundreds of Ivy League candidates for this position. It was a fiercepetition.¡±


    Brenna smiled softly, her demeanor warming. ¡°Congrattions. By the way, I go by Brenna Harper now.¡±


    Mia¡¯s expression shifted, surprise coloring her features. She recalled Brenna¡¯s family owning a factory back in their school days, making her one of the wealthiest kids in their ss. Brenna had been the top student, effortlessly captivating everyone¡¯s admiration.


    It had been unfortunate that Brenna had abruptly dropped out in fourth grade, leaving teachers and the principalmenting her departure.


    Initially, ssmates had thought she had transferred, but over time, they had learned she had left school altogether.


    Everyone had found it truly regrettable.


    Mia¡¯s gaze grewplicated as she looked at Brenna, a flicker of pity surfacing. It was such a shame that Brenna had notpleted her education. Had Brenna continued, she undoubtedly could have attended a prestigious university like her.


    Having heard whispers about the Barrett family¡¯s recent bankruptcy, Mia realized that Brenna was no longer the affluent heiress she had once been. Curiosity getting the better of her, Mia asked, ¡°Why did you change yourst name?¡±


    Brenna replied in a calm voice, ¡°The Barretts aren¡¯t my biological parents. I¡¯ve found my birth family now.¡±


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    ¡°Oh, I see,¡± Mia responded, her gaze lingering on Brenna¡¯s obviously expensive attire. Judging by Brenna¡¯s striking beauty, she couldn¡¯t help but assume that she must have found herself a sugar daddy. She was probably some old rich man¡¯s mistress now.


    Mia let out a sigh.


    The once-unreachable daughter of the Barrett family hadnded in such a situation.


    Mia said to Brenna, ¡°Are you here for a job interview? The executive secretary position requires at least a master¡¯s degree. You didn¡¯t evenplete elementary school.¡±


    ¡°School. It just won¡¯t work. Besides, you can¡¯t go straight to the CEO. Human Resources manages all recruitment. Even good looks won¡¯t give you a free pass. Listen, I¡¯m doing my best to help you here, butpany policy prohibits me from revealing the CEO¡¯s office to just anyone. I¡¯m really sorry.¡±


    Though Mia was mistaken, Brenna felt no irritation. She didn¡¯t want the Mitchell Group employees to know that their CEO had a girlfriend. If she shared that with Mia, it would spread like wildfire through thepany.


    Brenna preferred to keep things discreet.


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    She said, ¡°I¡¯m not here for a job interview. Just tell me which floor Mr. Mitchell is on; I¡¯ll find my own way.¡±


    Frustration crept into Mia¡¯s tone as her politeness began to wane. ¡°Without an appointment, you won¡¯t be able to meet Mr. Mitchell. Being beautiful won¡¯t change that. Mr. Mitchell is notcking in admirers. Brenna, you should take my advice and leave. Mr. Mitchell is out of your league.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about that,¡± Brenna stated evenly. ¡°Mr. Mitchell will see me.¡±


    Had she not wanted to give Ethan a surprise, she wouldn¡¯t have wasted time justifying herself to a receptionist.


    Yet, for now, she exercised patience with Mia.


    But Brenna¡¯s confidence came across as the aura of an arrogant mistress to Mia. The news of the Barrett Group¡¯s bankruptcy only intensified Mia¡¯s disdain. She knew Brenna was no longer the daughter of a wealthy family but just another ordinary woman like her.


    The Harper surname held no weight for Mia. It was clear to her that Brenna was trying to seduce Ethan bying here.


    With a tone dripping in derision, Mia shot back, ¡°Don¡¯t get ahead of yourself. Our headquarters is filled with dozens of beauties; none of them attract Mr. Mitchell¡¯s special attention. If every smitten employee demanded meetings, Mr. Mitchell would be swamped from dawn to dusk. Unless you have genuine business, I suggest you leave. We still have work to do here.¡±


    Mia¡¯s patience had reached its end.


    Abandoning the surprise, Brenna grabbed her phone and called Ethan.


    Mia exchanged knowing smirks with a male colleague. ¡°A fake call to Mr. Mitchell, I see,¡± she muttered. ¡°We get these gold-digging types every day. Only our school connection keeps me from calling security on her.¡±


    The male receptionist let out a cold chuckle. ¡°Social media delusions, if you ask me. These girls always think billionaires are chasing after pretty faces. They all believe they stand a chance. But billionaires aren¡¯t fools; they prefer substance over superficial charm.¡±


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    ¡°Should we get her out of here quickly? She might stir up troubleter,¡± Mia said.


    Nodding, the male colleague reached for his radio to summon security.


    In the conference room, Ethan was in the midst of a meeting with thepany¡¯s executives.


    Managers from various branches and several shareholders sat around the long conference table, hanging on Ethan¡¯s every word.


    ¡°Our robotics R&D has made significant strides, sessfullyunching over a dozen industrial andmercial robot models. Within the next quarter, we¡¯ll roll out a full market release to gauge consumer response and make the necessary adjustments¡­¡±


    Ethan was meticulouslyying out the corporate strategy when a distinctive ringtone pierced the air from his dress shirt pocket. He had assigned a special ringtone for Brenna¡¯s calls.


    The sugary recording echoed. ¡°Honey, do you miss me? I miss you so much¡­¡±


    The Mitchell Group¡¯s strict meeting protocol dictated that phones be silenced¡ªno calls or messages allowed.


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    Every executive in the room heard the ringtone. Stifled smiles spread as incredulous eyes turned toward Ethan.


    Their ice-cold CEO had such a ringtone? This revtion had them silently reassessing their leader with amused nces.


    Ethan himself was also shocked. Brenna had never taken the initiative to call him since he had set this ringtone months ago.


    Recently, she had not reached out to him, and he had forgotten about this ringtone.


    Yet here it was¡ªat the very moment his professionalism was on disy.


    Ethan¡¯s lips curled, not in embarrassment, but in quiet joy.


    Documents forgotten, he answered the call.


    ¡°Hello, Brenna.¡±


    The warmth in his voice shocked his team.


    Executives exchanged stunned looks upon seeing Ethan¡¯s gentle smile. Could their human cier actually melt?


    Every ear strained to catch a word from the phone, but not a syble was decipherable.


    ¡°Wait there. I¡¯m on my way,¡± Ethan said.


    Hanging up, he nced at his watch. It was half past eleven in the morning. ¡°Morning session adjourned. We¡¯ll reconvene at 13:30.¡±


    He then strode out without another word.


    The executives erupted in a frenzy.


    ¡°That was definitely a woman on the other end of the line!¡±


    ¡°Our boss has a girlfriend!¡±


    ¡°Who could stand his icy demeanor?¡±


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    ¡°I heard a rumor, his girlfriend is the daughter of the Harper family¡­¡±


    ¡°Details! Spill them now!¡±


    In the lobby, as Brenna put her phone away, two guards approached, having purposefully waited for her ¡°fake call¡± to wrap up.


    These young guards showed no respect for Brenna, their expressions dripping with disdain.


    ¡°Nice performance,¡± one of the guards sneered first. ¡°Dialing random numbers and pretending it¡¯s Mr. Mitchell? Who¡¯d buy that?¡±


    The second guard stepped ufortably close to Brenna. ¡°We see your type all the time. I¡¯ve witnessed worse. There was a girl camped out by Mr. Mitchell¡¯s parking spot, stalking his schedule. She was pretty enough and thought her looks could win him over. You know what happened? We kicked her out. We won¡¯t be gentle with shameless gold diggers like that.¡±


    He impatiently gestured toward the exit, delivering an ultimatum. ¡°If you don¡¯t want to be forced out, I suggest you leave now.¡±


    Mia said to Brenna with feigned concern, ¡°A dropout like you? You¡¯re not even fit to polish Mr. Mitchell¡¯s shoes. No offense, but that¡¯s just the way it is. I just want you to face reality.¡±


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    Brenna delivered two swift kicks, sending the guards tumbling across the polished marble. She used her full strength without hesitation.


    Their bodies slid across the floor, ending with heavy thuds.


    Stunned, the guards could hardly believe what had just happened; they hadn¡¯t anticipated such ferocity from someone so seemingly delicate. Despite their professional training, they struggled to ept how effortlessly Brenna had overpowered them.


    Grimacing, they got to their feet and prepared to beat her up.


    One guard managed a strainedpliment through gritted teeth. ¡°Impressive,¡± he said, touching his aching side. ¡°You¡¯re the first to knock us both down, but don¡¯t think you can do it again.¡±


    Meanwhile, at the front desk, a worried receptionist quickly alerted security. ¡°We need immediate assistance in the lobby¡ªsomeone is causing trouble here!¡±


    Brenna stood unmoving, her cold gaze halting the approaching, arrogant guards in their tracks.


    The guards activated their electric batons, one menacingly saying, ¡°Consider this your final chance to walk away on your own. It¡¯s going to hurt a lot if you don¡¯t leave now.¡±


    From a distance, Mia observed the scene. She believed Brenna was asking for trouble here. Considering that Brenna used to be her ssmate, she spoke up. ¡°Brenna, stop this madness. These guys are former military. You¡¯re going to get hurt. You¡¯d better leave now.¡±


    Yet Mia¡¯s eyes revealed her deeper desire: she secretly hoped the guards would teach Brenna a hard lesson, thinking that Brenna was too arrogant.


    Suddenly, the elevator chimed, signaling Ethan¡¯s arrival. He noticed the scene in the lobby, his eyes turning cold.


    At that moment, the guardsunched a coordinated attack on Brenna¡ªone aiming high, the other low.


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    Seeing this, Ethan reacted with blinding speed, grabbing each guard by the cor and sending them flying.


    The impact was even more severe this time, leaving the guards whirling from the pain.


    The receptionists watched in shock, realizing that they had misjudged the situation earlier.


    Ethan rushed to Brenna, his concern evident as he gently checked her for injuries. ¡°Are you alright?¡± he asked tenderly.


    Brenna nodded. She then turned toward the injured guards and said, ¡°Should I call an ambnce for you guys?¡±


    Caught off guard by Ethan¡¯s warm attitude toward Brenna, the guards were too bewildered to respond.


    Ethan¡¯s tone grew cold as he said sharply, ¡°Didn¡¯t you hear her? Answer her.¡±


    The guards quickly regained theirposure, awkwardly rising from the floor while hiding their difort. One of them quickly said, ¡°No need for that; we¡¯re fine. We just didn¡¯t realize who you were earlier. Our apologies for the misunderstanding.¡±


    They were still confused about Brenna¡¯s connection with Ethan, sensing it was significant.


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    They knew their only recourse now was to acknowledge their mistake.


    ¡°We¡¯re terribly sorry. Please ept our apologies,¡± they said to Brenna.


    Brenna dismissed them with a wave of her hand. ¡°It¡¯s alright. Just make sure to assess the situation thoroughly before acting next time.¡±


    The guards shared looks of relief and said, ¡°Absolutely! We¡¯ll handle every situation more carefully from now on.¡±


    Ethan protectively wrapped his arm around Brenna¡¯s waist as they moved toward the elevator.


    Meanwhile, Mia turned pale, murmuring to her colleagues in a low voice, ¡°Could she be Mr. Mitchell¡¯s lover?¡±


    The male receptionist shook his head subtly. ¡°Hard to say, but let¡¯s tread carefully around all female visitors from now on. They might all have connections we aren¡¯t aware of.¡±


    Once inside the private elevator, Ethan noticed the lunchbox Brenna was holding. ¡°What¡¯s the asion for your visit today?¡± he asked.


    With a smile, Brenna replied, ¡°I brought lunch to surprise you, but ended up getting stopped at the reception.¡±


    Ethan felt his heart flutter. Brenna had not onlye to visit him but had also prepared lunch as a surprise.


    Ethan said, ¡°I¡¯m going to move those receptionists and guards to different posts. I will let people who can make better decisions have their jobs.¡±


    Brenna chuckled softly. ¡°Well, they¡¯ll definitely remember me now. But new staff might not recognize me.¡±


    Ethan said decisively, ¡°They were disrespectful to you. I¡¯ll be docking their bonuses this month.¡±


    When Ethan and Brenna stepped out of the elevator, the secretaries in the executive area all rose, curiosity evident on their faces.


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    A few of the secretaries appeared heartbroken, whispering among themselves, ¡°It¡¯s over¡ªour dream man has been snatched.¡±


    One male employeemented, ¡°Even if you stay here forever, Mr. Mitchell wouldn¡¯t marry you. Just drop the ¡®dream man¡¯ fantasy.¡±


    ¡°Enough,¡± muttered one secretary as she watched Brenna disappear into Ethan¡¯s office. She then returned to her desk, her gaze fixed emptily on herputer screen.


    Ethan¡¯s office, located on the ny-ninth floor of the Mitchell Group, featuredrge windows that stretched from floor to ceiling, offering an expansive view of Shirie. During long, demanding workdays, the skyline provided a much-needed breath of fresh air, while at night, the sparkling lights brought a sense of calm.


    The office was designed with transparent ss walls on two sides, offering an unobstructed view that invited endless enjoyment of the scenery. Brenna, taking in the scene, said, ¡°This office is truly stunning.¡±


    Ethan approached her at the window, suggesting, ¡°You can move your staff here and work in my office if you want.¡±


    A gentle smile yed on Brenna¡¯s lips. ¡°I already oversee more than seventy people across my two studios. I just took a glimpse at the secretarial area; it¡¯s crowded. With so many employees here, I¡¯d only add to the congestion.¡±


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    Ethan nodded in understanding before responding, ¡°We manage two hundred subsidiaries worldwide, which trantes into a mountain of paperwork. That¡¯s why there are so many employees here.¡±


    While they were eating, Ethan¡¯s mobile phone rang. A nce at the caller ID caused his brow to furrow. He then stepped aside to the window to take the call.


    As Brenna ate leisurely, she couldn¡¯t help but think that personal calls to Ethan usually indicated important matters.


    Still, she held back her curiosity and didn¡¯t question Ethan about the caller¡¯s identity when he ended the call.


    But Ethan took the initiative to exin, ¡°That was Jade¡¯s father. He¡¯s offering arge sum for her safe return.¡±


    He then let out a coldugh. ¡°Last month, the Ward family intercepted my shipment at Norview. Our talks broke down, and then, they sent assassins after me. Now, with Jade caught up in trouble, they have the audacity to ask for favors from me?¡±


    A serious expression appeared on Brenna¡¯s face. ¡°Keep your distance from the Ward family. Their lies have no limits. It¡¯s widely known that they¡¯ll abandon anyone when they¡¯re in danger. Jade must have something valuable or a dark secret for them to even think about saving her.¡±


    Ethan knew all too well of the Ward family¡¯s ruthless chase for influence and profit. He looked intently at Brenna. ¡°You¡¯re familiar with the Ward family?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Brenna


    Brenna replied, her eyes cold. ¡°I have crossed paths with them in the past. Their leader, Edward Ward, lost an arm. I¡¯m the one who made the prosthetic he uses.¡±


    Ethan remembered seeing Edward¡¯s prosthetic arm, its movements so lifelike that at first nce, it was indistinguishable from a real limb.


    The prosthetic arm seemed like a remarkable replica of a human limb, but hidden within it was a deadly array of weapons. Daggers, firearms, poison darts,sers, and electrified currents were all embedded in the fingers. Anyone who dared to harm Edward would be killed by it.


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    The arm¡¯s most impressive feature was its intent-recognition system, which could detect hostile intentions, alert its user, and trigger countermeasures through neural signals. This piece of cybeic engineering was truly groundbreaking.


    Ethan was taken aback to learn that Brenna was the mind behind this formidable device.


    ¡°You¡¯re the creator of that?¡± His voice wavered as memories of their harrowing encounter at Norview, where the arm had almost imed his life, flooded back. He then asked impulsively, ¡°Are there any weaknesses?¡±


    Silence settled in the room. Seeing Ethan show such rare concern, Brenna couldn¡¯t help butugh.


    ¡°Of course,¡± she said, her smile turning into a mischievous grin. ¡°Do you think I¡¯d give Edward an unstoppable weapon?¡±


    Ethan¡¯s eyes gleamed. ¡°I want something even more powerful.¡±


    Nodding thoughtfully, Brenna replied, ¡°Araeden has been requesting abat support system for special forces soldiers. I was considering integrating some of the prosthetic¡¯s features. But your request has just sparked a superior idea. You¡¯ll get to test the prototype once it¡¯s ready.¡±


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    ?Chapter 441:


    At the first light of dawn, the Harper family headed out toward Luther¡¯s estate for the weekend.


    Even Abelson¡¯s family was going there, making it a final gathering before Lennon¡¯s semestermenced.


    By nine in the morning, the family vehicles had taken over the manor¡¯s cobblestone courtyard.


    In the gazebo, Rosie was spending time with Luther and Tessa.


    Her words, sweet and engaging, drew smiles from the elders.


    ¡°Dad! Mom! Brenna!¡± Rosie eximed as she saw them arrive. ¡°You are finally here. I¡¯ve missed you so much!¡±


    Rosie sat between Luther and Tessa, radiating practiced innocence as she greeted each family member with grace. To most, she appeared the same well-mannered youngdy they had always known.


    Only Brenna saw through the performance. She remembered Rosie sneering at the staff with thinly veiled contempt. Not only that, but she also recalled Rosie¡¯s ruthless, underhanded schemes to win Ethan over.


    Now, the same schemer posed as a virtuous, graceful woman.


    Brenna took her seat with a faint smile and greeted her grandparents.


    Luther, ever observant, had long noted Brenna¡¯s quiet, restrained nature. Her demeanor was different from Rosie¡¯s and Audre¡¯s clingy disys of affection. Even a simple greeting from her was a wee surprise.


    What really piqued his interest was the news surrounding Brenna. He had learned she had military ties and formidable capabilities. In his mind, this distant granddaughter might outshine even his grandsons, probably bing the Harper Group¡¯s future leader.


    If only Brenna would soften that steely exterior and show a little more warmth toward the family, she would be the perfect heiress.


    Tessa reached over and sped her hand, eyes tender. ¡°Is Ethan here?¡± she asked softly,forted by the thought that this often-overlooked granddaughter had finally found someone worthy.


    ¡°Not yet. He¡¯s been busytely,¡± Brenna replied with a small smile, making an effort to soften her demeanor. ¡°He¡¯ll be here around noon.¡±


    ¡°Wonderful! Now that you¡¯re together, spend more time with him.¡±


    Tessa picked up a small bunch of grapes and offered them to Brenna. ¡°Try these. They¡¯re from our vineyard.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Brenna took one and tasted it. She was then surprised by the great vor.


    ¡°It tastes good, right? Take a few crates home. Our greenhouses have five grape varieties, heirloom tomatoes, even fresh corn.¡± Tessa continued to offer Brenna fruits from the vineyard. Her genuine care touched Brenna more than she cared to admit.


    Brenna had braced herself for criticism from her grandparents. She had been certain Rosie had spent her recovery time badmouthing her to them.


    But her grandparents were treating her well now.


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    Had Rosie notined about her to them? Or had she simply failed to sway them?


    Across the room, Brenna watched Rosie put on an act, looking well-behaved in front of Shepard and Giselle.


    Despite her injury, Rosie wheeled herself over to them and hand-fed them fruit with dramatic affection. The same couple who had once expelled her from their home now epted the act without protest, ying their parts because of the elders¡¯ watchful eyes. There wasn¡¯t a flicker of dislike on their faces.


    To anyone watching, the three looked like a happy family.


    Rosie locked eyes with Brenna, seemingly challenging her to react or get upset. However, Brenna remainedposed, her expression unreadable. She quickly turned her attention back to Luther and Tessa with practiced ease.


    ¡°These military connections of yours¡­ Are you still working with them?¡± Luther asked curiously.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Brenna answered, ¡°but I can¡¯t say more. It¡¯s ssified, I¡¯m sorry, Grandpa.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re doing the right thing,¡± Luther said firmly, approval lighting his face. ¡°Service to the countryes before my curiosity. Knowing you¡¯re contributing to something greater makes me proud.¡±


    His gaze then shifted toward Ernst and Lennon. ¡°Brenna is aplishing great things. You two need to catch up.¡±


    To Luther, national contribution mattered far more than doing business and making money.


    Eyes bright, he continued praising Brenna. Then, with a wave, he instructed the servants to bring out the wine for a proper toast to his exceptional granddaughter.


    Just then, Brenna caught the murderous glint behind Rosie¡¯s eyes.


    Rosie seethed in silence. All her subtle hints about getting kicked out by Brenna had gone nowhere. She had hoped Luther would stand up for her and let her return home.


    But Luther didn¡¯t scold Brenna. He even praised her.


    Rosie was filled with resentment but said nothing.


    She knew that despite his age, Luther was perceptive.


    Any direct maniption would backfire, as he would see right through it. That was why she hadn¡¯t pushed harder.


    Her only move now was to double down on the dutiful daughter act by pleasing Giselle and Shepard, hoping it might stir Luther¡¯s emotions and make him let here back.


    Just then, Audrey spoke up cheerfully. ¡°Grandma, let me show Brenna the orchards! It¡¯s her first time being here.¡±


    ¡°Of course,¡± Tessa said warmly. ¡°Pick as much as you like. The kitchen knows how to handle everything.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Lennon trailed behind them. ¡°I will go with them. Might as well stock up before I leave for Norview.¡±


    Luther¡¯s gaze drifted over Ernst, Lennon, and Dalton, each glued to their phones. ¡°Join the others. Help Brenna gather produce.¡±


    The three exchanged looks. Their nces said everything. This was Luther¡¯s tactful dismissal.


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    None of them argued. They rose and left without a word.


    Luther then turned to Rosie. ¡°That stewed chicken you made yesterday was excellent. Please go and make more for everyone.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s heart leapt in joy. Luther was going to have a private conversation with his sons. He would probably speak up for her.


    With a carefullyposed expression, she nodded and wheeled herself toward the kitchen.


    After leaving, Lennon muttered to Dalton and Ernst, ¡°Grandpa¡¯s having a family meeting with his sons.¡±


    Dalton said, ¡°Dad and Uncle Ableson will be scolded.¡±


    Ernst said nothing. He knew well of Luther¡¯s sharp scolding.


    The moment the grandchildren were out of earshot, Luther¡¯s expression darkened like a storm.


    Shepard and Ableson remained silent. They had endured Luther¡¯s scolding since they were boys. Marriage and fatherhood hadn¡¯t changed that. Now, even though they had children of their own, Luther never hesitated to scold them. At least he spared them the embarrassment in front of their kids, asking the kids to leave before doing it.


    ¡°Shepard,¡± Luther began, his voice sharp. ¡°Exin Rosie¡¯s eviction. That child grew up without parents. I remember your promise, word for word. You swore to treat her as your own. What happened to that? You kicked her out when your own daughter returned. That is outrageous!¡±


    Luther¡¯s sharp re was followed by a flush of crimson creeping up his neck. It was a signal his every son and daughter-inw hade to dread.


    Thest time his anger had reached this level, he had copsed within ten minutes from a hypertensive crisis and spent a week in the hospital.


    The memory still haunted the entire family.


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    Since then, everyone in the Harper household had learned to tread carefully around Luther.


    Shepard and Ableson exchanged a tense nce. They were all worried about Luther¡¯s health.


    Shepard had expected the scolding from Luther. And he knew he couldn¡¯t make Luther angry, considering his fragile health condition.


    ¡°Dad,¡± Shepard said cautiously, ¡°let me exin.¡±


    Luther let out a low grunt, a sound that granted limited permission. Shepard¡¯s respectful tone had cooled the fire in him just enough. ¡°Talk.¡±


    Shepard¡¯s jaw tightened as Rosie¡¯s calcted appeal to Luther revealed a level of political acumen that was unnerving for someone her age. She knew exactly who to turn to in order to get back into the Harper family, and worse, it had worked.


    Whatever sympathy he had left for Rosie vanished.


    Still, with Luther stepping in, her return was no longer a matter of debate. It was inevitable.


    He had already made peace with that.


    ¡°Brenna and Rosie had a falling out. It should¡¯ve been nothing more than typical friction between siblings,¡± Shepard began carefully. ¡°But Rosie crossed a line. She hired a gang, Jay¡¯s group, to harm Brenna. Even now, I shudder thinking about it. Dozens of men surrounded Brenna. They were out for blood. The only reason things didn¡¯t end in disaster was because of Brenna¡¯sbat training. If she hadn¡¯t been skilled at fighting and driven them away, she might have been harmed. Can you really me me for reacting the way I did?¡±


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    Luther had been told a very different story. All he knew was that Brenna had allegedly tampered with Rosie¡¯s car twice, leading to her injuries. And that Brenna had driven Rosie out.


    Rosie had not told him what she had done.


    ¡°This can¡¯t be true. Rosie isn¡¯t that malicious!¡± Luther insisted, his voice rising.


    Ableson stepped in. ¡°This is indeed true. Jay confessed under interrogation. Rosie funded the attack. It¡¯s all on record.¡±


    Luther¡¯s expression twisted with frustration. ¡°And you kicked Rosie out for that? Conflicts between young people call for guidance, not punishment! Rosie isn¡¯t like Brenna. Brenna has parents and brothers. But Rosie? She has no one. When she makes a mistake, she needs correction, not exile. As elders, you crossed a line. And you even took away her shares! That was just too much!¡±


    Shepard stood there, unable to hide his indifference toward Rosie. He turned to Ableson in silent plea.


    A lifetime of brotherhood made words unnecessary. Ableson understood Shepard in an instant.


    Ableson stepped forward, saying, ¡°Dad, Brenna and Rosie can¡¯t live together. Rosie¡¯s fixation on Ethan has gone on for years, but he has only ever seen her as a sister. With Brenna¡¯s engagement to Ethan approaching, keeping her and Rosie under the same roof will only lead to more conflict. Let Rosie live with me. I¡¯ll look after her myself.¡±


    Luther finally gave a nod. ¡°Very well. But remember this: Rosie has been through enough. I¡¯ve offered her somepensation to make it up to her. As adults, you should care for her, not cast her aside.¡±


    Ableson and Shepard knew they had no say in this. In this family, Luther¡¯s word was final.


    As Shepard turned, he caught the disapproval etched on Giselle¡¯s face. It was clear she was displeased with the idea of Rosieing back.


    With no choice, Shepard reached under the table and gently patted her leg in silentfort.


    Luther continued, his voice rising as he scolded both sons and their wives. Tessa asionally chimed in, echoing his grievances. She repeated how poorly they had treated Rosie, an orphan with no one to speak for her.


    By the time Brenna and the others returned an hourter, arms full with baskets of fresh produce, the elders had already wrapped up the conversation.


    The younger generation scanned their parents¡¯ grim expressions. They were curious about what had happened, but none dared to ask. They exchanged quiet, knowing nces.


    They had already talked about the matter while picking fruits and vegetables earlier. Despite being young, they were smart enough to recognize Luther¡¯s move for what it was¡ªsending them away to have a private conversation with their parents.


    After a brief discussion, the younger generation had unanimously agreed that today¡¯s family meeting was about Rosie.


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    At Luther¡¯s signal, the butler stepped away to fetch Rosie from the kitchen, where she had been diligently preparing the meal.


    Rosie soon appeared, wearing a serene, practiced smile. She looked gentle and unassuming.


    ¡°Grandpa, Grandma, I made enough dishes for everyone.¡± She stood dutifully beside Luther, her sweet smile never faltering.


    Brenna and the other younger members watched her. None of them was fooled. They knew Rosie had spent the past days feeding quiet grievances to their grandparents, most of them likely about Brenna.


    At this moment, Brenna met Rosie¡¯s gaze without flinching, her expression cool and steady. She saw straight through her performance. Behind the sweetness was the same ruthless schemer, now ying the part of the perfect, obedient granddaughter.


    Luther sped Rosie¡¯s hand and, with a voice heavy with resolve, said, ¡°Rosie, your parents passed when you were just a baby. You¡¯ve had to fend for yourself since then, and casting you out now is wrong. I¡¯ve already spoken with Shepard and Ableson. From now on, you¡¯ll live with Ableson¡¯s family. No one will dare to send you away again. With us protecting you, you won¡¯t be mistreated again.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s gaze flickered to Shepard and Giselle, her shock evident. She couldn¡¯t believe they had refused to take her back. She was going to live with Ableson. This wasn¡¯t what she wanted. Living there meant fewer chances to cross paths with Ethan.


    Ethan always went to Shepard¡¯s house to see Brenna. He had never once stepped into Ableson¡¯s ce. How was she supposed to win him back if she lived with Ableson?


    Rosie¡¯s eyes drifted to Ableson¡¯s prosthetic leg. After a moment¡¯s pause, she said, ¡°Grandpa, Uncle Ableson is not in good health, and Aunt Jillian is already busy looking after him. I don¡¯t want to add to their burden. I think it¡¯s best if I stay at Uncle Shepard¡¯s ce.¡±


    Ableson exchanged a look with Jillian, confused by Rosie¡¯s reasoning. ¡°How would you be a burden? The servants will handle everything. Jillian and I wouldn¡¯t need to lift a finger. It¡¯s no trouble at all.¡±


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    When Rosie heard this, she said, ¡°I just don¡¯t want to impose on you, Uncle Ableson.¡±


    Everyone around them held back a scoff. So she¡¯d rather impose on Shepard instead?


    With eyes glistening with tears, Rosie clung to Luther¡¯s hand. ¡°Grandpa, Grandma, I believe Shepard and Giselle will always be my parents. Please let me stay with them. I promise I won¡¯t argue with Brenna again. I¡¯ll give in to her every time from now on. She has been through so much. It¡¯s only natural she feels jealous because of me.¡±


    Luther¡¯s voice shook with fury. ¡°Look at how selfless she is. And yet you all went against her before. You should all be ashamed of yourselves!¡±


    Tessa nodded. ¡°If she wants to stay at the Shepards¡¯ home, let her.¡±


    Luther¡¯s icy stare swept through everyone. ¡°Any objections?¡±


    Silence followed.


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    Rosie reveled in her victory. Shepard and Giselle¡¯s reluctance to let her live with them was clear as day.


    She knew they must have told Luther they were unwilling to take her back.


    She thought Shepard¡¯s so-called affection toward her over the years had always been a lie.


    Now, she would go live with them to upset them. She would also take away all their shares, leaving them with nothing. Then no one would dare mess with her again.


    With unshakable finality, Luther dered, ¡°Rosie will return to Shepard¡¯s ce today. No one will drive her out again.¡±


    His razor-sharp gaze swept past Brenna. He didn¡¯t meet her eyes, but the warning in his look was evident.


    Rosie shed Brenna a smile, dripping with fake sweetness. ¡°Brenna, you wouldn¡¯t have a problem with meing back home, would you?¡±


    Since the elders had spoken on that, how could Brenna argue with it?


    A quick nce from Brenna captured Shepard¡¯s and Giselle¡¯s reactions¡ªthey were both upset, especially Giselle, her lips pursed tightly in silent disapproval.


    Brenna answered, her voice smooth and polished like finecquer, ¡°Why would I have any objections? After all, you¡¯ve been living there for two decades. We¡¯re practically sisters, aren¡¯t we?¡±


    Rosie blinked, caught off guard by this. She had expected a fierce refusal from Brenna, a dramatic sh that would conclude with Brenna¡¯s quiet surrender under Luther¡¯s scolding. But instead, Brenna¡¯s calm eptance left her feeling shocked.


    ¡°You are Mom and Dad¡¯s biological daughter; I am merely their niece. Rest assured, I am well aware of my ce and have no intentions topete for their affection.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s words held an unspoken weight, a silent plea for recognition of her exclusion by the rightful daughter.


    The others, however, saw through Rosie¡¯s act. Her earlierints to the grandparents had exposed her deceit, and only the presence of Luther and Tessa kept them from speaking out.


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    No one dared provoke Luther¡¯s anger, especially not over a drama Rosie had carefully crafted.


    Their gazes toward Brenna were filled with sympathy, knowing she had to endure living day by day with such a toxic person like Rosie.


    Brenna, fully aware of the traps in Rosie¡¯s words and the deliberate tone designed to provoke, chose to step away from the maniptive game. She also refused to tter Luther.


    She was not a person who would do something like that.


    The family dynamics were unmistakable to Brenna. Since Luther wanted Rosie to go back and pressured her parents for that, he clearly cared about Rosie a lot. It was evident to Brenna that she was not the most important person to Luther.


    That was perfectly fine with Brenna. She had never longed for Luther and Tessa¡¯s affection, especially since there was no genuine emotional connection between them.


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    ¡°d you think that,¡± Brenna responded, her voice chilling.


    She expressed her disdain without holding back. Standing firm, she saw no point in sugarcoating the truth.


    Others¡¯ opinions were not important to her.


    Rosie stole a nce at Luther¡¯s stormy face and said, ¡°Brenna is right¡ªdaughters doe before nieces. It has always been me who crossed the line.¡±


    Just as Luther was about to scold Brenna, Dalton stepped in, saying, ¡°How could you say something like that? Brenna has epted your return, Rosie.¡±


    Lennon lost his temper. ¡°That¡¯s enough of the sneaky remarks,¡± he said to Rosie.


    Tears began to form in Rosie¡¯s eyes. ¡°I¡¯m genuinely thankful to be weed back, yet I can¡¯t shake the fear that Brenna might be displeased with my return.¡±


    She caught Lennon¡¯s frown. The whole family seemed to be on Brenna¡¯s side.


    A wave of sharp disbelief washed over her.


    How had thingse to this?


    A pang of genuine sorrow twisted her heart as she faced the cousins she had grown up with, her expression turning sad. Then, the realization hit her¡ªtheir betrayal had one cause. With her parents gone, there was no one left to defend her.


    Meanwhile, Brenna still had her parents despite everything that had happened. At that moment, a wave of intense hatred for the Harper family, who had failed her, surged within Rosie.


    They were traitors, each and every one of them!


    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to upset you, Lennon,¡± Rosie said, her fingers nervously pulling at her sweater. ¡°It¡¯s just¡­ I¡¯m scared that Brenna holds a grudge against me.¡±


    Brenna could see through her act. ¡°That¡¯s absurd. I wee you toe back.¡±


    She strengthened her determination¡ªif Rosie tried to stir up trouble again, no elder¡¯s intervention would make her hold back from letting Rosie face the consequences.


    Audrey, visibly disgusted by Rosie¡¯s maniptive tactics toward the whole family, rattled her fruit basket and said to Brenna, ¡°Brenna, would you mind helping with the sd? These grapes need washing.¡±


    Brenna nodded. Carrying their baskets, Brenna and Audrey went to the kitchen, apanied by a few servants.


    Ernst looked at Rosie, his eyes filled with anger. The person he had grown up with had turned into this¡­ schemer.


    Comining to Grandpa like a snitch? Truly pathetic.


    ¡°Ethan will arrive any minute,¡± Ernst said. ¡°I¡¯m going to get the wine and barbecue fixings ready.¡± Lennon and Dalton tagged along.


    ¡°I¡¯ve known Rosie all these years,¡± Lennon said. ¡°Never realized her capacity for deceit. How could she run to Grandpa andin after being justly expelled?¡±


    ¡°Do you remember how much you spoiled her?¡± Dalton asked. ¡°Look at what she¡¯s turned into. Did you see the expressions on Dad¡¯s and Uncle¡¯s faces earlier? They must have been scolded by Grandpa.¡±


    Ernst responded, his voice heavy with disappointment, ¡°Yes, I saw it. Rosie overstepped first, which led to her exile by Mom and Dad. And yet, she pulled Grandpa into the matter and forced Mom and Dad to take her back.¡±


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    After a pause, he continued, ¡°After Mom and Dad raised her for two decades, this is how she shows her gratitude to them?¡±


    A heavy silence settled in the air. In their younger years, living under the same roof, they had had their disagreements and arguments, but they had never once turned against their own family.


    Rosie¡¯s behavior earlier, scheming against her own family, left them feeling disgusted by her.


    As noon approached, Ethan¡¯s sleek car glided to a halt outside the Harper estate. d in his signature tailored ck suit with artfully tousled hair, Ethan cut a striking figure, embodying effortless style with a touch of sophistication. To everyone¡¯s astonishment, Ethan emerged with an uncharacteristic smile, his usual icy demeanor visibly softened. The tension that typically coiled around his broad shoulders had evaporated.


    Rosie¡¯s eyes were glued to Ethan. Months had slipped by since she hadst seen him, and now here he was, beaming¡ªsurely that smile was meant for her. Her heart fluttered with hope.


    ¡°Ethan!¡± she called out eagerly, maneuvering her wheelchair toward him with unseemly haste.


    Brenna set her sd fork down with deliberate calm. She had intended to greet Ethan, but Rosie¡¯s desperate interception made her pause. Watching the scene with detached amusement, she waited for Rosie to be ignored by Ethan.


    Ethan, buoyed by the significance of being included in a Harper family gathering, even offered Rosie a rare courtesy. ¡°How¡¯s your recoverying along?¡± he asked.


    The words were polite, yet his gaze never strayed from Brenna. The warmth in his eyes as he looked at her could have melted ciers, his expression tender with affection.


    Without waiting for a response from Rosie, he strode past her as if she were merely part of thendscaping, making a beeline for Brenna.


    Rosie¡¯s face crumpled. The brutal dismissal cut deeper than any physical pain from her injuries. Even Ethan¡¯s retreating figure seemed to reject her, his entire being focused solely on Brenna.


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    Hot tears pricked at the corners of her eyes.


    The Harper siblings exchanged knowing nces. They felt no sympathy for Rosie, and Audrey even believed Rosie had brought the humiliation upon herself.


    Ethan greeted the elders with uncharacteristic deference, the normally aloof tycoon exhibiting a surprisingly gentle demeanor.


    Neville followed him, handing the gifts Ethan had brought to the staff.


    After exchanging pleasantries with the Harper siblings, Ethan finally reached Brenna. From his jacket pocket, he produced a single perfect rose. ¡°For you,¡± he said softly.


    Brenna epted it, her smile finally reaching her eyes. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    She brought the bloom to her nose, inhaling its fragrance with visible delight.


    Determined to salvage her pride, Rosie maneuvered closer. The sight of that rose¡ªa symbol of affection¡ªin Brenna¡¯s hands sent jealousy churning through her veins. She wanted one from Ethan, too.


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    ?Chapter 449:


    Suppressing her envy and frustration, she forced a brittle smile. ¡°I made your favorite soup,¡± she told Ethan, pretending her heart wasn¡¯t shattering. ¡°You have to try some.¡±


    Ethan offered a nomittal nod, the bare minimum of courtesy required in the presence of the Harper family.


    Luther watched the exchange with a growing sense of sympathy toward Rosie.


    Rosie¡¯s desperate affection was as clear as day. Meanwhile, Brenna, who had just returned to the family, had somehow enchanted everyone around her. The girl possessed an uncanny ability to excel in every social interaction.


    Brenna¡¯s social finesse was remarkable for someone so reserved.


    But Rosie¡­ she was different, Luther felt for her.


    In this household, Luther believed only he truly had Rosie¡¯s best interests at heart.


    Still, he was no overbearing patriarch. While he wouldn¡¯t meddle in matters of the heart, witnessing Rosie¡¯s suffering pained him deeply. An idea took root in his mind¡ªwhen the moment was right, he would introduce Rosie to suitable young gentlemen from reputable families.


    ¡°Every ingredient for today¡¯s meales straight from the garden. I picked them myself,¡± Rosie dered, sliding a porcin dish toward Ethan. ¡°Organic produce. You should try some.¡±


    Rosie had cleverly positioned herself beside Ethan during the meal. ¡°This is your favorite dish,¡± she murmured, invoking childhood memories like a finely honed weapon. ¡°You used to love it during summer breaks.¡±


    With practiced finesse, she ced some food onto Ethan¡¯s te with her own fork, her smile brimming with hope.


    Ethan felt displeased. Without a moment¡¯s hesitation, he moved the food to his discard te. ¡°There¡¯s no need for you to do this. I am Brenna¡¯s boyfriend, and it would be inappropriate for me to ept such intimate gestures from other women. I¡¯m sorry, Rosie.¡±


    Rosie felt tears welling up in her eyes. ¡°I meant nothing by it!¡± The protest burst forth from her throat. ¡°You¡¯ve always been like family¡ªlike a brother to me. Please don¡¯t misunderstand my gesture.¡±


    Complet3 c0nt3nt at g??lnovels.??????


    Her gaze darted to Brenna. ¡°Surely you can appreciate childhood bonds? You wouldn¡¯t mind, would you?¡±


    Brenna just shrugged, her demeanor cold. ¡°I don¡¯t care.¡±


    With that, Brenna put some food onto Ethan¡¯s te, casually selecting a cucumber sd in front of her.


    Ethan¡¯s demeanor brightened as he returned the gesture with some pasta, their silentmunication excluding everyone else.


    Ethan and Brenna continued to eat,pletely ignoring Rosie.


    Unable to watch Rosie embarrass herself further, Audrey put some ribs on Rosie¡¯s te.


    Rosie clenched her teeth and said, ¡°Thanks.¡± Her visage, a thundercloud, was reflected in the shining tableware.


    The humiliation burned fiercely in her. She realized that Ethan was unwilling to be nice to her anymore.


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    ?Chapter 450:


    But she refused to just give up. She had loved Ethan for countless years and had always tried to please him. Why should Brenna, who had done nothing, receive the love that was rightfully hers?


    In the afternoon, Ethan settled into his seat across from Luther for a game of chess.


    With each move, Luther¡¯s experienced hands guided a knight into position, showcasing decades of strategic expertise. The game remained evenly matched, with neither the seasoned businessman nor the family patriarch able to im the upper hand.


    ¡°While we y, Ethan, reflect on your past with Rosie,¡± Luther said, eyes fixed on the chessboard. ¡°She might be headstrong, but deep down, her intentions are pure.¡±


    Luther had arranged the chess match not just for the game, but to engage in a private conversation with Ethan.


    Ethan stiffened, unsure if Luther was trying to probe his decision not to choose Rosie for marriage.


    Understanding Luther¡¯s influential position in both the Harper family and the Harper Group¡ªapany whose power extended throughout the country¡ªEthan chose his words carefully.


    ¡°Indeed, Rosie is like family to me,¡± Ethan said, moving his queen forward. ¡°She has always been like a sister to me.¡±


    Luther¡¯s expression stiffened as he noticed Ethan¡¯s careful attempt to dodge the true issue. He believed Ethan clearly knew what he wanted to ask¡ªRosie had grown up with him, so why didn¡¯t he want to marry her?


    Luther couldn¡¯t grasp why Ethan would want to marry Brenna after only a few meetings, ignoring his years of close friendship with Rosie.


    ¡°But you should know that Rosie expects more from your rtionship, Ethan,¡± Luther said. ¡°She grew up believing she¡¯d be your bride, given our families¡¯ agreement. Why haven¡¯t you considered marrying her?¡±


    Ethan looked at Luther intently. ¡°Rosie has only ever been a sister to me. Despite being aware of the familial agreement, I never embraced the idea of marrying her. I view such agreements as outdated relics. Even before I met Brenna, I had resolved not to honor the arrangement. Moreover, my elder brother remains unmarried; he is also able to fulfill that familymitment.¡±


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    Luther¡¯s response was quiet, almost thoughtful. ¡°You are right.¡±


    Ethan spoke openly, his words honest and direct. ¡°From the moment we first met, I knew Brenna was the one for me. That was when I decided I would marry her.¡±


    Luther was not the type to cling to outdated traditions or arrange a marriage out of pity for Rosie. He kept an open mind, prioritizing Ethan¡¯s happiness above any arrangement.


    He noticed the nervousness in Ethan¡¯s demeanor andughed lightly. ¡°My main concern is your and Brenna¡¯s happiness. Don¡¯t worry; I¡¯m open-minded and not one to meddle.¡±


    Relief washed over Ethan. ¡°Your approval means everything to me.¡±


    Later that day, as Ethan prepared to leave, the family staff busily loaded Ethan¡¯s car with boxes of fresh produce from the Harper family¡¯s estate gardens. Luther had insisted on it.


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 Chapter 451

    ?Chapter 451:


    Ethan nced at the generous boxes of fruits and vegetables, a hint of resignation in his eyes as he wondered what to do with it all.


    He had tried to refuse the gifts, but Luther had been persistent.


    Brenna, amused by Ethan¡¯s predicament, said, ¡°Maybe your parents and grandparents would enjoy these. It could be seen as a thoughtful, health-conscious gift.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s face brightened at the idea. ¡°That¡¯s an excellent suggestion. They really value farm-fresh goods.¡±


    After a pause, he added, ¡°Do you have some time toe with me and meet them today?¡±


    Brenna hesitated, unsure about the sudden n. But before she could voice her objection, Ethan was already guiding her toward the car.


    As Ethan started the engine, he dialed his mother, telling her that he and Brenna would be home soon.


    The Mitchell family¡¯srge home was often empty since Ethan¡¯s parents usually stayed at the military base.


    Brenna, searching for a polite excuse, said, ¡°I¡¯m not sure I¡¯ve brought suitable gifts for a visit.¡±


    Ethan gestured toward the trunk. ¡°You¡¯re not going there empty-handed. Four crates of fresh produce make a thoughtful gift.¡±


    Brenna furrowed her brows. ¡°Isn¡¯t it a bit improper to bring such a gift?¡±


    Ethan reassured her, ¡°Consider it a token of your care for their health. You¡¯ve already done so much for my grandfather; his improved mobility is thanks to you. Really, your presence is more valuable than any physical gift.¡±


    Yet Brenna remained unconvinced. ¡°It feels too rushed to visit without a more thoughtful gift. Besides, these vegetables seem like things they wouldn¡¯t want. It wouldn¡¯t be right to present such things to the elders.¡±


    At Brenna¡¯s insistence, Ethan drove them to a shopping center. At Ellie¡¯s store, they picked out a navy blue dress and a handbag so new it hadn¡¯t even been put on disy yet.


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    At the militarypound.


    Though Brenna had previously met Ethan¡¯s parents in a professional context at the hospital, she felt anxious about this formal introduction as his girlfriend. Thepound bustled with high-ranking officials, all dressed in uniforms.


    Ethan said to Brenna, ¡°My mother used to perform in the military¡¯s performance troupe. Though she rarely performs now, she still has an eye for elegance. She¡¯ll definitely appreciate the gifts you¡¯ve brought.¡±


    After the car was parked, Brenna got out. Just then, a middle-aged woman in a crisp uniform quickly approached her.


    Her military attire and neatly trimmed short hair highlighted her refined, dynamic presence.


    This was Elsa Mitchell, Ethan¡¯s mother.


    ¡°Pleased to meet you,¡± Brenna offered a polite greeting.


    Then she noticed a person who looked a lot like Ethan standing behind Elsa and her husband. It was Kenny.


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 Chapter 452

    ?Chapter 452:


    Brenna arrived home to find Giselle waiting in the living room, her expression a mask of forced lightness.


    ¡°Well? How did the meeting with Ethan¡¯s parents go?¡± Giselle asked.


    ¡°It went great, except that I grinned until my cheeks felt ready to burst,¡± Brenna replied, rubbing her sore facial muscles.


    She sensed the thin veneer of anger simmering beneath Giselle¡¯sposed demeanor.


    Giselle let out a heavy sigh. ¡°Rosie¡¯s back. I¡¯m sorry, darling¡ªeven in our own home, we¡¯re powerless against your grandfather¡¯s decisions. I know you don¡¯t like her, but we can¡¯t go against his orders.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s distress stemmed from a bitter sh with Shepard, another skirmish over Rosie.


    Shepard saw a chance for redemption. He believed Rosie would change this time, but Giselle only saw betrayal.


    Years spent raising Rosie as her own had only led to this moment, when Rosie deliberately plotted to upset her. Rosie clearly understood she was not wee here, yet she still forced her way back.


    Giselle wanted to find a way to make Luther change his mind about letting Rosie live with them, but Shepard felt sorry for Rosie and wanted to let her stay.


    Though Brenna felt a difort twisting in her stomach, she didn¡¯t want Giselle to bear the weight of guilt. She gave a dismissive wave. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it. If Rosie steps out of line, I¡¯ll handle her.¡±


    Giselle wrung her hands, guilt heavy in her chest. How could she face Brenna while allowing the person who had harmed her to live here? But there was little she could do.


    ¡°Her little schemes won¡¯t work on me,¡± Brenna reassured Giselle. ¡°Dealing with her is a piece of cake for me. In fact, if you don¡¯t like her, I already have a n to get her out of our house.¡±


    She chuckled softly, a mischievous glint lighting her eyes.


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    Giselle leaned in closer. ¡°What¡¯s your n?¡±


    Without missing a beat, Brenna replied, ¡°Get her married.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s face darkened. ¡°Don¡¯t be absurd! Anyone can see she has her sights set on Ethan!¡±


    This was Giselle¡¯s greatest fear¡ªthat Rosie would stop at nothing to steal Ethan away from Brenna or tear them apart.


    Brenna scoffed. ¡°So what? Can she really force him to marry her? Ethan is a catch¡ªwealthy, handsome, and young. It¡¯s only natural that women throw themselves at him left and right.¡±


    Giselle finally chuckled, the tension in her shoulders easing. ¡°You¡¯ve got a point. Many women want to marry Ethan. Rosie is just one of them; it hardly makes a difference.¡±


    As Brenna and Giselle ascended to the third floor, the heated exchange between Shepard and Ernst drifted through the air.


    Giselle exined, ¡°Your grandfather is adamant that Ernst gain some outside experience for about a year before rejoining the Harper Group. He believes Daltoncks the chops for corporate management and that the Harper Group can¡¯t move forward without Ernst at the helm. Though he sees your leadership potential, he clings to outdated beliefs that women should be anchored to domestic duties rather than steering the business. At most, he might toss you a few shares to keep youfortable. He is convinced that women can¡¯t managepanies.¡±


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 Chapter 453

    ?Chapter 453:


    After a pause, she continued, ¡°I suspect he¡¯s worried that if Ernst takes too long toe back, the CEO chair might end up with you. His patriarchal views are clear.¡±


    Brenna squeezed Giselle¡¯s hand and replied, ¡°My two studios keep me busy already, and they¡¯re thriving. I¡¯ve never wanted to take control of the Harper Group.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s expression hardened. The more sensible Brenna seemed, the more acutely Giselle felt the sting of injustice. ¡°How can you just ept this? Every Harper descendant deserves equal rights topete for the CEO position of the Harper Group, regardless of gender. Why should you settle for mere shares? You¡¯re a reserved person, but that doesn¡¯t mean they can push you around. I absolutely reject your grandfather¡¯s outdated notions about session.¡±


    Just then, from the bedroom, Ernst¡¯s voice rose in protest. ¡°Dad, Dalton is managing thepany well. My early efforts at the Harper Group paled inparison to his current work. Given time, he¡¯ll outshine mepletely.¡±


    Shepard¡¯s irritated voice echoed, ¡°Have you forgotten what your grandfather said?¡±


    Ernst countered firmly, ¡°Dad, sometimes wisdomes from the younger generation. Grandpa¡¯s age has dulled his vision. Must you inherit his shortsightedness? The Harper Group will be aughingstock if we blindly follow everything Grandpa says. The shareholders won¡¯t hesitate to mock our ipetence.¡±


    He then lowered his voice, and Brenna couldn¡¯t catch what he said next.


    Ernst continued, ¡°Dad, haven¡¯t you noticed that Grandpa ns to put Rosie on the board? She¡¯s angling to reim Uncle Carsen¡¯s shares.¡±


    Shepard¡¯s silent nod confirmed Ernst¡¯s implication. Luther¡¯s lingering guilt over Carsen¡¯s death fueled this irrational favoritism; otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t be defending Rosie after everything she had done.


    Giselle tightened her grip on Brenna¡¯s hand and said, ¡°After all you¡¯ve been through, I won¡¯t let anyone mistreat you.¡±


    ¡°Mom, I¡¯ll keep an eye on Rosie.¡± Brenna locked eyes with Giselle, her gaze unwavering. ¡°With my finance background, tracking her assets is easy for me. Don¡¯t worry; financial warfare happens to be my forte.¡±


    Full ztory avabl3 at g??lnovels.??????


    Without a word, Ernst strode out of the room, giving Brenna and Giselle a curt nod before making his way upstairs.


    Brenna retreated to her bedroom, her steps measured. As she neared her door, Rosie¡¯s door creaked open. Seated in her wheelchair, Rosie red at Brenna, with Rachael standing behind her.


    ¡°Just answer me,¡± Rosie said, her voiceced with usation. ¡°Did you tamper with my car?¡±


    Brenna tilted her head slightly, her icy gaze falling on Rosie. ¡°Did you enjoy the results?¡± she asked.


    That frigid tone sucked the air from Rosie¡¯s lungs, freezing her smirk mid-curve. The unspoken truth hung thick between them ¡ª Brenna had done it. Brenna¡¯s cold stare, brimming with the promise of something far worse, sent a shudder rippling through Rosie¡¯s body.


    ¡°You¡­¡± For a moment, Rosie didn¡¯t know what to say. Fear strangled the rest of her indignation. She hadn¡¯t expected this from Brenna.


    Brenna had all but confessed, yet there wasn¡¯t a trace of guilt or hesitation in her expression ¡ª just the glint of cold satisfaction. The audacity caught Rosie off guard.


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 Chapter 454

    ?Chapter 454:


    Brenna straightened, her resolve like steel. ¡°Didn¡¯t your hired goonse after me? What was I supposed to do ¡ª do nothing after you tried to harm me?¡±


    After a pause, she continued, ¡°What do you think of my countermove? Do you like it? If not, I can do more.¡±


    Her voice was low butced with danger. ¡°Try me again, and I won¡¯t hesitate to kill you.¡±


    The re she shot at Rachael was a silent threat.


    Rachael, who had meant to make things difficult for Brenna, suddenly found herself unable to meet her fierce gaze. Yet beneath her fear, resentment simmered.


    Brenna quickly walked to her room and shut the door behind her.


    Rachael wheeled Rosie into her room and finally found her voice. ¡°Brenna admitted it! That arrogant bitch!¡±


    Rosie snorted in anger, her hands trembling like leaves in a storm. ¡°She nearly got me killedst time. But she feels no guilt about it. I can even sense that she wants me dead.¡±


    Concern creased her brow as she turned to Rachael. ¡°Do you think I shouldn¡¯t havee back? What if she really does try to kill me?¡±


    Rachael trembled at the thought¡ªshe understood the dark secrets of the wealthy. Taking out a young woman like Rosie would be child¡¯s y for the Harpers.


    A business empire like theirs surely had its share of enemies. There must have been people the Harper family had crossed. Rachael believed the Harpers had ways to make problems vanish without a trace.


    Yet she was in the dark about their methods.


    ¡°At least the Harpers won¡¯t act openly against you. For now, you need to keep a low profile¡ªdon¡¯t provoke them further,¡± Rachael suggested.


    Rosie¡¯s fear shed with her resentment. She had schemed to humiliate Brenna and win Ethan back before. But now, Brenna¡¯s lethal re haunted her, making her afraid to make any moves.


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    The next morning, Brenna slept well past eleven before asking the chef to pack some food for her.


    She then drove to Ellie¡¯s ce. Patrick answered the door in his pajamas, cookie crumbs dusting his cheeks.


    ¡°Morning! Where¡¯s your mom?¡± Brenna asked.


    Patrick pouted, pointing toward the bedroom. ¡°She¡¯s still in dreand, telling me to prepare food for myself. Back in Norview, she always let me cook andined that my cooking was giving her malnutrition! But I only know how to make a few simple dishes! I¡¯m just a kid, after all.¡±


    Brenna wasn¡¯t surprised by this. Ellie¡¯s parenting philosophy seemed to be that survival equaled sess.


    ¡°Poor you,¡± Brenna said as she went inside and opened the containers she had brought. ¡°I brought you some real food. I also picked these myself from the countryside yesterday.¡±


    She carefully stored sweet corn, grapes, and cherry tomatoes in the fridge.


    She then told Patrick that the corn only needed to be boiled for fifteen minutes before he could eat it, and that he could eat the grapes and cherry tomatoes after washing them.


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 Chapter 455

    ?Chapter 455:


    ¡°Thank you!¡± Patrick eximed, happily eating the dishes Brenna had brought. Brenna soon joined him.


    After a while, Ellie emerged from the bedroom, drawn by the aroma of food. Her beige silk dress clung to her curves, and her hair casually cascaded over her shoulders, making her look effortlessly charming.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you wake me? The food smells so good.¡±


    Just then, the doorbell rang. Assuming it was Jayceon again, Ellie groaned, ¡°Jayceon is so annoying, always bothering me on weekends¡­¡±


    With a huff, she trudged to the door and opened it, only to be met by the sight of two elderly people and a young man.


    ¡°Mom? Dad? Hank?¡± Ellie stood frozen, disbelief washing over her. She had never expected her family to track her down.


    Tori Moore, Ellie¡¯s mother, saw Ellie and instantly pushed past her to enter the house.


    ¡°When did youe back? Why didn¡¯t you tell us? If it weren¡¯t for my friend seeing you at the mall, we wouldn¡¯t even know you¡¯ve struck it rich! Are you hiding your wealth from us? How could you do something like that?¡±


    Ellie¡¯s father, Leif Moore, and her brother, Hank Moore, also stepped inside, their eyes wide as they took in the spacious and well-decorated apartment. Hank¡¯s eyes sparkled with envy.


    ¡°Ellie! You live in such a nice ce; you must be loaded!¡±


    Patrick looked up from his te, clearly confused by the sudden influx of strangers.


    ¡°Mommy, who are they?¡±


    Noticing Patrick, Tori shrieked, pointing at him.


    ¡°Whose child is this?¡±


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    Ellie¡¯s expression darkened at her family¡¯s uninvited arrival. These were her closest blood rtives, yet when she had been pregnant with Jayceon¡¯s child, they had turned their backs on her.


    At that time, Jayceon¡¯s parents refused to let her live with them. She had been forced to return to her own home, where her family treated her with rejection.


    Her parents and brother had branded her unwed pregnancy as shameful, driving her away with harsh orders never to return.


    During those first grueling years in Norview, there were no calls from them, no financial support. They had let her struggle in a foreignnd, fighting for survival on her own.


    She had convinced herself that her family meant nothing to her. That was why she hadn¡¯t informed them when she came back this time.


    Yet now, they hade to her.


    Years of pent-up bitterness erupted. ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Ellie demanded, her eyes zing. ¡°You¡¯re not wee here.¡±


    Tori snapped, her voice dripping with disdain, ¡°Ungrateful wretch! After all we invested in you, how could you say something like that to us?¡± She then marched toward the table, grabbing Patrick¡¯s arm roughly.


    Brenna had heard Ellie¡¯s stories but had never grasped the full extent of her family¡¯s cruelty. The elders¡¯ greedy sneers confirmed to her that they were not good people at all.


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 Chapter 456

    ?Chapter 456:


    In one smooth motion, Brenna positioned herself protectively between Patrick and the intruders.


    Patrick watched silently as the strangers appraised his home like inspectors, their eyes roaming with entitlement.


    ¡°They are your grandparents,¡± Brenna said to Patrick carefully, her gaze locking onto Tori¡¯s.


    Noticing Brenna¡¯s polished appearance, Tori¡¯s tone shifted. ¡°You must be Ellie¡¯s friend?¡± she asked politely.


    ¡°Yes. I¡¯m Brenna Harper,¡± Brenna confirmed curtly, maintaining basic politeness despite the tension.


    Tori¡¯s eyes narrowed as they raked over Patrick. Then she hissed at Ellie, ¡°You kept the bastard? What were you thinking? How will you ever marry someone now?¡±


    Meanwhile, Leif and Hank wandered through the apartment, visibly impressed. ¡°This apartment will do nicely,¡± Hank announced. ¡°Ang and I will take it after the wedding.¡±


    Leif looked like he owned the ce. ¡°This ce is adequate for newlyweds. With this space, Ang should have no reason to refuse to marry you.¡±


    Hank began snapping photos of every corner. ¡°I will let Ang see this ce.¡± His phone captured Ellie¡¯s private spaces, including her bedroom and bathroom, invading her privacy.


    Ellie¡¯s anger red as she snatched Hank¡¯s phone from him. ¡°What do you think you¡¯re doing?¡±


    Tori, in a sh, unleashed a torrent of reprimands. ¡°Stop yelling. We have every blessed right to everything here! You vanished after graduation, not sending home a dime. Did we nurture you all these years for nothing? After the mountain of money we poured into your education, you have to repay us. Hank is about to get married. Since he and his girlfriend are both working in Shirie, you can give this ce to them. Consider it repayment. You should move out quickly.¡±


    Hank justughed, reiming his phone to continue showing off to his girlfriend.


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    ¡°You¡¯re all mistaken,¡± Ellie said, her voice a low growl. ¡°This isn¡¯t my property; it¡¯s my friend¡¯s. You have no right to im this ce as your own.¡±


    The family exchanged incredulous nces, eyes wide as saucers. ¡°Stop lying!¡± Hank spat, his voiceced with venom. ¡°Everyone knows you¡¯re a famous designer now. You can make tens of millions a year. How could this ce not be yours? You¡¯re just being ungrateful for not wanting to give this ce to us. How dare you not repay Mom and Dad after all they¡¯ve done for you?¡±


    His face contorted, a mask of aggression.


    Tori and Leif settled onto the sofa, a picture of entitlement. Leif dered, ¡°You¡¯ve turned your back on us for years. Now that you¡¯re swimming in money, you should buy us a house, and another for Hank. That¡¯s fair, right? And I believe you don¡¯t need so much money as a woman. Once you¡¯re married, your money will be someone else¡¯s family¡¯s!¡±


    Brenna, not wanting to meddle in Ellie¡¯s family affairs, guided Patrick to his room, shielding him from the scene.


    Ellie faced her parents, her gaze unwavering. ¡°I already told you¡ªthis ce belongs to my friend, Brenna. You just met her.¡±


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 Chapter 457

    ?Chapter 457:


    Tori¡¯s eyes narrowed to slits. ¡°Stop trying to fool us. Just tell me if you are rich or not. Aren¡¯t you a famous designer now?¡±


    ¡°Fine. I¡¯ve earned some money over the years,¡± Ellie admitted.


    Tori¡¯s face underwent a miraculous transformation, a smile as fake as a three-dor bill spreading across her lips as she pulled Ellie onto the couch. ¡°That¡¯s my girl. Now, you¡¯ll support us financially. We don¡¯t ask for much. You just need to buy two houses, one for me and your father, one for Hank. And you need to give us some money.¡±


    Leif spoke with authority. ¡°Listen here, Ellie. Raising you was no pic, and your college education bled us dry. Here¡¯s the deal¡ªkeep twenty thousand for yourself and give the rest of your savings to us. Your mother and I will manage the money for you.¡±


    Ellie, her voice as cold as ice, replied, ¡°That¡¯s not going to happen.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be so ungrateful!¡± Tori shrieked, pinching Ellie¡¯s arm with force. ¡°We have raised you! You¡¯d rather give your money to that bastard and not us? You need to tell me, who is the father of that bastard?¡±


    Ellie¡¯s irritation boiled over. Her family¡¯s sudden intrusion had caught her off guard. She knew her parents well¡ªthey were vain people who only valued their son.


    She wanted to get her parents and brother out of here immediately. She didn¡¯t want them toe back ever again.


    But their greedy eyes, like vultures, picked apart the apartment, especially Hank¡¯s.


    He conducted a mental inventory of every fixture, every piece of furniture, clearly wanting to im them as his own.


    Tori poked Ellie¡¯s ribs, her voice dripping with venom. ¡°Why are you staring at Hank like that? Do you think we¡¯d stoop to taking your things?¡±


    Hank, havingpleted his tour of the bedrooms, eximed, ¡°Three guest rooms, each a pcepared to our master bedroom! Ang has already agreed to live here with me after the wedding.¡±


    He then turned to Ellie, adopting a mock-solemn tone. ¡°You¡¯ll give me this apartment, right? Consider it a debt repaid to Mom and Dad.¡±


    Don¡¯t miss fresh updates at g?ln¦Ò¦Í??ls?c?m


    ¡°I¡¯ve told you already. This ce is not mine. I can¡¯t give it to you,¡± Ellie retorted, her voice sharp as a shard of ss. ¡°I¡¯m renting this ce from a friend.¡±


    Her family members¡¯ faces darkened in an instant.


    Hank roared, ¡°Liar! The whole vige sings your praises as a money-minting designer! And you im to still live in a rented ce? I don¡¯t believe you!¡±


    Tori also eximed, ¡°After all our sacrifices for you, you turn your back on us! We ask for a mere apartment, and you refuse us? You¡¯ve left the family for years, and now that you are finally back, you need to repay us! Just tell me how you will repay us!¡±


    Leif, lowering his voice to a conspiratorial whisper, said to Tori, ¡°Perhaps the bastard¡¯s father owns this ce?¡±


    Tori¡¯s eyes gleamed with understanding. She nodded before saying to Ellie,


    ¡°Tell me who is the father of your child!¡±


    Ellie red at them. She didn¡¯t want her family to know Jayceon¡¯s identity. If they knew that Patrick¡¯s father was Jayceon, who belonged to one of the four powerful families in Shirie, they would just push her to marry him.


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 Chapter 458

    ?Chapter 458:


    ¡°Patrick¡¯s father is just an ordinary person,¡± Ellie said.


    Hank sneered, ¡°Nonsense. An ordinary person can¡¯t afford this ce! The rent alone must be over ten thousand a month.¡±


    Tori¡¯s nails dug into Ellie¡¯s arm, her expression sour. ¡°Give us his name! You kept his identity a secret when you were carrying his baby before, and now you¡¯re still trying to protect him. Just tell me who he is!¡±


    Ellie, no longer the timid girl she once was, wrenched herself free from Tori¡¯s grasp, rubbing her arm as she strode to the door and flung it open. ¡°Get out. When I needed you the most, you disowned me. You cut ties with me yourselves. Don¡¯t you remember? We have no bond now. You need to leave this instant.¡±


    Leif and Tori, like stubborn mules, nted themselves on the sofa, puffing out their chests in righteous indignation.


    Leif said, ¡°You¡¯ve grown quite the spine, haven¡¯t you? But to banish your own parents? That¡¯s over the line! We¡¯re staying! This is our home now. Every penny we invested in you, we¡¯ll reim it!¡±


    Behind the bedroom door, Brenna and Patrick eavesdropped on the conversation. Patrick¡¯s small fists clenched; he disliked these three people.


    He said to Brenna, ¡°What if they refuse to leave? I don¡¯t like them and don¡¯t want them to stay here!¡±


    Brenna observed the escting confrontation, ready to step in if things got out of control.


    Patrick¡¯s eyes, tinged with fury, zed. He raised his small fists and whispered, ¡°Let¡¯s forcefully throw them out! I think I¡¯m a good fighter.¡±


    Just then, a resonant voice sliced through the charged atmosphere.


    ¡°Ellie, aren¡¯t you going to invite me in?¡± Jayceon leaned against the doorframe, a takeout bag swinging from his fingertips.


    Ellie¡¯s frustration grew. ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    Latest chapters ?¦Áln¦Ò¦Íe??s


    She attempted to steer him towards the elevator quickly, wanting him to leave. But she was toote. Her parents and brother, seeing Jayceon, rushed over.


    Hank seized Jayceon by the arm. ¡°You¡¯re not going anywhere!¡±


    Leif jabbed his finger at Jayceon. ¡°You must be the father of that child! You¡¯ve dared to show your face. I won¡¯t let you leave just like this.¡±


    Jayceon, with a calm demeanor, dislodged Hank¡¯s grasping hand, his eyes scanning the trio in their ordinary attire. He soon realized they were Ellie¡¯s family.


    He smiled politely. ¡°Nice to meet you. I¡¯m Jayceon Russell, Patrick¡¯s father.


    Let¡¯s sit down and talk about everything, shall we?¡±


    The situation had spiraled beyond Ellie¡¯s control. Facing any one of them alone would have been challenging enough. But all four? That was a storm she was ill-prepared to face.


    The four, however, were positively buoyant. Ellie¡¯s family, their eyes gleaming, immediately took note of Jayceon¡¯s bespoke suit and the glint of his opulent watch.


    Hank¡¯s eyes nearly popped as he recognized the limited-edition watch on Jayceon¡¯s wrist. He realized Jayceon was clearly wealthy.


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    ¡°Pleasure to meet you!¡± Hank seized Jayceon¡¯s hand enthusiastically. ¡°I¡¯m Hank, Ellie¡¯s brother! We¡¯re practically family now!¡±


    He then proceeded to introduce his parents to Jayceon, his voice thick with sycophancy.


    Leif and Tori, their senses sharpened by years of experience, immediately recognized Jayceon¡¯s affluence, evident in his tailored attire and refined aura.


    They had never imagined, even in their wildest dreams, that their ¡°disgraceful¡± daughter would ensnare someone of such staggering wealth.


    But soon, a troubling realization dawned on them. Ellie¡¯s secret pregnancy, her unwavering silence about the father¡­ She must have been his mistress, and the child illegitimate.


    However, as their eyes swept across the luxurious apartment, they quickly dismissed those thoughts.


    Leif and Tori ushered Jayceon inside with evident hospitality. They led him to the sofa and began, ¡°So, what do you do for a living? What is your family background? When are you and my daughter tying the knot?¡±


    Jayceon¡¯s eyes flicked toward Ellie, sensing her anger. He then turned back to Tori and Leif, feeling the thick tension in the air.


    ¡°We are not getting married,¡± Ellie stated firmly.


    ¡°I am about to propose to Ellie soon,¡± Jayceon said calmly.


    They spoke simultaneously, their conflicting words hanging in the air.


    Tori¡¯s eyes narrowed, her gaze sharp and calcting. She believed Ellie was ying a dangerous game, pretending to be disinterested in order to pressure Jayceon into giving her more money. Jayceon must have refused, which exined Ellie¡¯s anger toward him.


    Tori adopted a stern tone, her voice tinged with menace. ¡°Listen here, Jay¡­¡±


    Jayceon quickly interrupted, ¡°It¡¯s Jayceon.¡±


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    ¡°Jayceon,¡± Tori repeated. ¡°You want to marry Ellie, don¡¯t you?¡±


    Jayceon, in a good mood, thought Ellie¡¯s parents were far easier to deal with than Ellie herself.


    ¡°Of course,¡± he replied, nodding.


    Sensing victory, Tori felt her demands were within reach. ¡°This apartment is yours, right?¡± she asked.


    Jayceon shook his head calmly. ¡°No, this apartment belongs to Ellie¡¯s friend. However, I have already secured a two-thousand-square-meter house for Ellie and Patrick. They can move in whenever they wish. Furthermore, the house is already in Ellie¡¯s name.¡±


    Tori, Leif, and Hank were ted at the news. Such arge house was more than they could ever hope to afford in their lifetimes.


    Exchanging greedy nces with her husband, Tori cleared her throat, her voice carefully bnced between entitlement and pleading. ¡°That¡¯s good. However, raising Ellie cost us a great deal. We¡¯re currently renting in Shirie, and our son needs a house for his uing marriage.¡±


    The implication hung heavily in the air.


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    Jayceon quickly realized they were vain and greedy people, but he didn¡¯t mind. After all, a few properties were nothing to him.


    ¡°I will get you two a house. I¡¯ll also give Hank a house as a wedding gift,¡± he said.


    Grins spread across the Moore family¡¯s faces, mirroring the ecstatic joy of lottery winners.


    Leif¡¯s eyes gleamed with undisguised happiness. ¡°What do you do for a living? When can we meet your parents¡­?¡±


    He faltered, a flicker of doubt crossing his features. He assumed Ellie was just Jayceon¡¯s mistress and thought that suggesting a meeting with Jayceon¡¯s parents might be inappropriate.


    As Leif hesitated, Ellie¡¯s voice was sharp as a shard of ice as she said to Jayceon, ¡°Did I consent to this arrangement? Did I even agree to be your wife? You¡¯ve already promised them houses. When they get those houses, they¡¯ll want money from you too. Will you give them that as well?¡±


    Jayceon could see that Ellie didn¡¯t have a good rtionship with her parents, but he was unaware that she had already cut ties with them.


    Jayceon replied, ¡°Shouldn¡¯t I provide for your parents? They don¡¯t even own a home in Shirie. How can we live in a big house while they rent? People would mock us.¡±


    Ellie, exasperated, shoved him toward the door. ¡°Just leave; you¡¯re only making this worse.¡±


    Jayceon refused to leave.


    Tori pushed Ellie aside, her voice sharp. ¡°Have you lost your damn mind? A good man like him is rare! Why would you drive him away?¡±


    She yanked Jayceon back by the arm. ¡°You still haven¡¯t told us about your family!¡±


    Ellie saw exactly where this was heading. The moment her parents realized Jayceon came from a wealthy family, they would force her to marry him. She eximed angrily, ¡°Enough! I am not going to marry him. Who gave you the right to decide for me?¡±


    She jabbed a finger toward the door. ¡°Jayceon, get out!¡±


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    The raw anger in Ellie¡¯s voice made Jayceon hesitate. One wrong move, and he believed he might never see Patrick again. He quicklyplied. ¡°Fine, I¡¯m leaving. Just don¡¯t be mad at me.¡±


    The Moores could only watch as Jayceon left.


    Ellie then turned back to them, her tone cutting. ¡°He¡¯s just a show-off. Yes, he has money, but he can¡¯t afford all those things he bragged about earlier.¡±


    Hank couldn¡¯t shake off Jayceon¡¯s words, which left a bad taste in his mouth. Jayceon had said that this ce belonged to Ellie¡¯s friend, meaning he wouldn¡¯t be able to get this ce for his marriage to Ang.


    This couldn¡¯t happen!


    The memory of Jayceon¡¯s luxury watch lingered in Hank¡¯s mind as he quickly ran after him. He believed Jayceon must be rich.


    If this rich guy had gotten Ellie pregnant, the least he could do was cough up some money. What was mere pocket change to Jayceon could probably set him up for life.


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    Message from Noah: Nice sunday for you all dear ones. God loves you and Noah whishes you all the best. (=?=) /


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    ¡°Jayceon!¡± Hank called out, sliding into the elevator with a grin stered on his face. ¡°Don¡¯t buy into Ellie¡¯s tough act. When she got pregnant with your child before, she defended you a lot. Even though she says she doesn¡¯t want to marry you, deep down, she still has feelings for you. Otherwise, why would she keep the child?¡±


    Jayceon knew that much, which was why he kept trying to win Ellie back. He sized Hank up ¡ª cheap suit, overstyled hair, like a wannabe hotshot.


    He didn¡¯t seem like a fool.


    Jayceon responded casually, ¡°And then?¡±


    Hank leaned in and chuckled. ¡°Look, that kid makes you a family, Jayceon. Ellie wille around eventually. Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll put in a good word for you in front of her. But, you know, it¡¯s not easy to do that¡­¡± He shed Jayceon a knowing smile.


    Jayceon had already realized that Ellie didn¡¯t like her family. He looked at Hank with a cold expression.


    Rich didn¡¯t mean reckless, and his money didn¡¯t grow on trees. He kept silent.


    Embarrassed, Hank shifted gears. ¡°My wedding¡¯sing up, and I still don¡¯t have a ce to call my own. So, here¡¯s a win-win proposal: if I can persuade Ellie to marry you, can you¡­¡±


    Jayceon immediately understood him and nodded. ¡°Sounds like a good idea.¡±


    They exchanged numbers, and Hank thumped his chest with confidence. ¡°Don¡¯t worry; I will get the job done!¡±


    Jayceon draped an arm around him. ¡°When I first started dating Ellie, my mother wasn¡¯t exactly her biggest fan. So, behind my back, she arranged an engagement¡­¡±


    ¡°For me. Ellie misunderstood the situation and thought I cheated on her. I¡¯ve exined it to her multiple times, but she still refuses to believe me. I really love her. Can you help me make things right?¡±


    He raised an eyebrow, looking at Hank.


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    Hank¡¯s gaze was fixed on the watch on Jayceon¡¯s wrist. He believed it was probably genuine, not a fake. ¡°I¡¯ll help you with this,¡± he said.


    Jayceon noticed Ellie¡¯s eyes on his watch and casually slid it off, handing it to Hank. ¡°You like it? It¡¯s yours.¡±


    Hank immediately pushed it back. ¡°No way! I was just checking if it¡¯s authentic, not asking for a gift!¡±


    He meant what he said.


    But to Jayceon, the watch was nothing. His dresser was a treasure trove of two dozen newer models ¡ª he couldn¡¯t possibly wear them all.


    ¡°Keep it; it¡¯s yours,¡± Jayceon said.


    Standing beside his sports car, he studied Hank, who looked sharp. He didn¡¯t understand why Ellie didn¡¯t like her brother. ¡°Want to have lunch with me? My treat,¡± Jayceon offered.


    He believed this was the perfect chance to learn more about Ellie¡¯s family dynamics and to gain an ally.


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    After a quick call to Ang, Hank hopped into Jayceon¡¯s car without hesitation.


    ¡°Dope ride!¡± he remarked. ¡°How much is this car?¡±


    He had been saving for a car since starting his job, but dating Ang had drained his savings.


    Jayceon shrugged. ¡°A couple million.¡±


    Hank was shocked, running reverent fingers over the leather seats. ¡°It¡¯s crazy that Ellie gives you the cold shoulder when you¡¯re both handsome and rich. She really is out of her mind.¡±


    Jayceon didn¡¯t see it that way. He felt that Ellie¡¯s refusal to forgive him was entirely his fault.


    ¡°Ellie is not at fault,¡± Jayceon said. ¡°Never speak ill of your sister like that in front of her. Tell her I¡¯m the one who messed up. The most important thing is for her to know I recognize my mistake.¡±


    Hank grinned. ¡°I know how these things go. Girls are never wrong ¡ª we always take the me. Leave it to me!¡±


    At Ellie¡¯s ce, after a long argument with Ellie, Leif and Tori found themselves hungry. They finally opened the takeout bags Jayceon had brought. The dishes looked delicious. Without waiting for an invitation, they plopped down at the table.


    Tori¡¯s mood lifted as she dug in. ¡°Enough squabbling! Let¡¯s bury the hatchet.¡±


    Ellie crossed her arms, feeling resigned. ¡°You can only stay here for a while. Hank¡¯s wedding is his problem, not mine. Don¡¯t get any ideas about this ce.¡±


    Patrick walked over and stood beside Ellie. ¡°Mommy, why aren¡¯t they leaving?¡± he asked.


    Tori beamed at him. ¡°I¡¯m your grandma. I¡¯ll live with you from now on and cook for you! The dishes I make are to die for!¡±


    Brenna returned home, her mind miles away, shrouded in a fog of thoughts that clouded her usual sharp focus. Giselle, ever the keen observer, noticed Brenna¡¯s distracted demeanor and asked, ¡°What¡¯s on your mind?¡±


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    ¡°Mom, Ellie¡¯s parents showed up today, demanding she buy houses for her brother¡¯s wedding and for them. How could her own parents do that to her?¡± Brenna said.


    Giselle sighed and replied, ¡°The world is full of parents who mistreat their children. I know Ellie is your close friend, but this storm is hers to weather. You shouldn¡¯t interfere too much.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not interfering; I¡¯m just furious for Ellie,¡± Brenna eximed. ¡°Her parents abandoned her during her hardest years, and now that she¡¯s finally sessful, theye back demanding money? What kind of parents treat their own child like that?¡± Her fists clenched.


    The injustice gnawed at Brenna throughout the afternoon until Giselle finally managed tofort her.


    ¡°Do you remember Danika?¡± Giselle asked, shifting the topic.


    Brenna nodded. ¡°I remember her. She¡¯s an engineer at the National Research Institute. Highly aplished and about to retire.¡±


    Giselle exined, ¡°The National Research Institute has a joint project with Shirie University on advanced automotive technology. After seeing your lecture at the Harper Group, Danika believes you¡¯re the only one who can properly exin the new torque calibration system. She wants you to give a few lectures there. You¡¯ll be paid a thousand dors per lecture. And if you¡¯re interested, Shirie University will even make you an honorary professor.¡±


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    Brenna chuckled softly. ¡°I¡¯m not worthy of being an honorary professor, but I¡¯ll do the lectures. I could use some of their top graduates at my studio anyway ¡ª orders have been piling uptely.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll notify the dean that you¡¯ve agreed. The lectures will begin in October.¡± Giselle then detailed Shirie University¡¯s mechanical engineering program, which was top-ranked in Vand and globally.


    ¡°I¡¯ll prepare properly, then,¡± Brenna said. Even for her, lecturing at this level required serious preparation. Two weeks should be enough.


    The following days blurred together. With the fighter jet prototype entering a critical design phase, Brenna¡¯s team pulled all-nighters. She only had time to reply to messages when she returned home at night.


    She realized Greta had messaged her almost every day. Brenna just replied curtly.


    ¡°I¡¯m about to graduate next year with my Master¡¯s in Mechanical Engineering. Could I intern at your studio instead of taking the school¡¯s cement?¡± Greta sent another message.


    In her dorm, Greta prepared for bed, frowning at her phone. Brenna¡¯s replies were alwayste and often very brief.


    Annoyance simmered inside her. She thought Brenna was being rude.


    ¡°We don¡¯t take interns. Sorry,¡± Brenna finally responded.


    Greta didn¡¯t hesitate. Her fingers flew across the screen as she sent Brenna photos of her award certificates.


    Her mother had told her that, even though Brenna¡¯s studio was small, they handled contracts rivaling multinational firms.


    Her mother also believed that within two years, Brenna¡¯s team would achieve global recognition.


    The team¡¯s future looked bright.


    That was why Greta desperately wanted to join.


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    Greta sent another message: ¡°Please take a look at these. My credentials speak for themselves. I¡¯ll excel at any task.¡±


    Brenna finally took time to review Greta¡¯s resume and had to admit it was impressive.


    ¡°You¡¯re wee to try. I¡¯ll have Tommy McCoy, the head of the studio, contact you soon,¡± Brenna replied.


    What Brenna hadn¡¯t expected was to see Greta at her office door the very next day. At noon, Ethan was inviting Brenna to lunch when Greta appeared with a backpack.


    ¡°Brenna, I¡¯m here!¡± Greta beamed. Then, catching sight of Ethan, she masked her excitement with perfectly timed politeness. ¡°Mr. Mitchell.¡±


    Her original n had been different. She had intended to apply for the Mitchell Group¡¯s secretary position, which would have ced her near Ethan.


    But her mother had pointed out that the Mitchells were a military family. Their secretaries had excellent educational backgrounds, and there had never been a scandal involving any Mitchell family member and their secretaries.


    If Greta wanted to get close to Ethan, bing his secretary wouldn¡¯t achieve that.


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    So, Greta changed her n, hoping to get close to Ethan through Brenna. Conveniently, her degree suited the role.


    Brenna¡¯s cool gaze swept over Greta, noticing the travel-wrinkled suit. She could tell Greta was fresh off the ne.


    Brenna said, ¡°Let¡¯s have lunch first. Then we¡¯ll talk.¡±


    Greta turned to Ethan, keeping her expression calm despite the joy in her heart. ¡°I hope I¡¯m not interrupting you?¡± she asked carefully.


    Ethan¡¯s icy nce made his thoughts abundantly clear. She knew she was interrupting. And yet, here she was, wanting to join them for lunch anyway.


    The Financial Building housed a variety ofpanies, employing thousands of people. The ground floor featured an assortment of dining options, and the nearby street, lined with more than a dozen office towers, boasted even more eateries. Restaurateurs mored for space here, drawn by the generous sries and strong spending power of the workforce. Brenna and her team were regrs at one particr buffet, and today was no different.


    Ethan and Brenna filled their trays, selecting dishes side by side. Standing next to Ethan, Greta picked her food while discreetly observing his choices.


    She noticed that his selections showed no clear pattern¡ªno obvious preference in the variety on his te.


    Beneath his seemingly indifferent exterior, there was a thoughtful side. He even gently asked about Brenna¡¯s preferences. This unexpected tenderness caused a flutter in Greta¡¯s chest.


    ¡°Ethan, I have been looking everywhere for you.¡± Jade appeared suddenly and smoothly slid into the seat beside Ethan.


    Ethan¡¯s frosty gaze flickered with surprise. Jade¡¯s tray looked like a carefully arranged painting, each dish ced precisely for visual appeal.


    She sank into the chair with effortless grace, her quiet takeover executed without a hint of haste.


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    Brenna simply took the empty seat across from Ethan, settlingfortably with no sign of annoyance.


    Jade¡¯s smile was sharp enough to cut ss. ¡°Apologies, Miss Harper. I trust you don¡¯t mind my choice of seat?¡±


    ¡°You can sit wherever you want,¡± Brenna replied, her voice as cold as the winter wind.


    Greta¡¯s nails dug into her palms. Who was this presumptuous intruder? This woman didn¡¯t seem like a good person at all. She wasn¡¯t worthy of sharing the same air as Ethan, let alone a table.


    ¡°That seat belongs to Brenna,¡± Greta¡¯sposure cracked. ¡°You should move.¡±


    Ethan looked at Greta, his silence heavy with unspoken agreement. Greta had voiced what he couldn¡¯t say.


    Jade chuckled mockingly. ¡°The grown-ups are talking. You shouldn¡¯t interfere.¡± Her nce dismissed Greta as if she were insignificant.


    ¡°Brenna got here first!¡± Greta snapped, mming her tray down and reaching out to pull Jade from the chair.


    Brenna caught her wrist to stop her and said, ¡°It¡¯s just a seat. I¡¯m perfectly fine sitting here.¡±


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    Jade¡¯sughter rang out like a victory bell. She deliberately moved her chair closer to Ethan until their arms almost touched.


    Ethan¡¯s initial surprise froze into indifference. ¡°Last I checked, you were supposed to be behind bars,¡± he said coolly, slicing into his steak.


    Greta sank into her seat, simmering with frustration. But she realized that anyone who knew Ethan like this must be someone with real power.


    Jade twirled her fork casually. ¡°My father had leverage¡ªa spy inside the military. They arranged an exchange, and I got out of jail,¡± she said as casually as if discussing the weather.


    Even Ethan hadn¡¯t expected the Ward family¡¯s influence to be so extensive. Brenna looked indifferent as she said, ¡°How fortunate. Though if I were you, I would tread carefully from now on. Your father¡¯s leverage might notst forever.¡±


    Ethan added, ¡°Next time, they might not be so lenient.¡±


    Jade¡¯s smile sharpened like the edge of a de. ¡°You still owe me a favor, Ethan. I can¡¯t die so soon.¡±


    The air sizzled with tension as the trio exchanged verbal daggers.


    Greta shrank quietly into herself. Military spies, prison escapes¡ªthis was no petty workce spat but a dangerous power y.


    After a while, Jade said with a smile, ¡°Oh! There¡¯s good news I almost forgot to tell you. I have purchased office space in the Financial Building, Brenna. We will be working in the same building from now on.¡±


    Brenna was displeased by the news. She said sarcastically, ¡°How lovely. Has the Ward family shifted from trafficking narcotics to legitimate business?¡±


    Greta stiffened, stunned. She felt she had overheard something she shouldn¡¯t. She stared hard at her te, silently wishing she had chosen the far end of the table instead of sitting near Ethan.


    Jade didn¡¯t seem fazed by Brenna¡¯s words. Herughter rang out again. ¡°The Wards only handle legitimate business. It seems you have been misinformed.¡±


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    Leaning closer to Ethan, Jade said in a low voice, ¡°Those robotics and drone projects you have¡­


    ¡°Those robotics and drone projects you¡¯re targeting¡ªI want them. You can hand them over to me as repayment. What do you think?¡±


    Ethan smiled, but it didn¡¯t reach his eyes. ¡°No offense, but yourpany can¡¯tpete with the Mitchell Group on that. Besides, even if you got those projects, yourpany doesn¡¯t have the capacity toplete them. Feel free to prove me wrong.¡±


    Jade¡¯s eyes shed with anger. ¡°Then tell me,¡± she said, ¡°how exactly do you n to repay me? Are you considering an alternative form of payment?¡± A suddenugh escaped her lips as she entertained a thought. ¡°That might not be such a bad idea.¡±


    Jade ced a hand on Ethan¡¯s arm, leaning in close. ¡°Do you think your mother would wee me into the Mitchell family as your wife?¡±


    ¡°Enough!¡± Ethan eximed, pushing her away.


    Greta sat frozen, stunned by Jade¡¯s audacity. She nced at Brenna and noticed her cold expression.


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    ¡°Quite bold of you to say that,¡± Brenna replied, raising her eyes to meet Jade¡¯s as she absentmindedly toyed with her meal. ¡°nning to be Ethan¡¯s wife? Have you asked him about this? Or me?¡±


    Ethan stood up, carefully pushed his chair back, and methodically removed his suit jacket, tossing it into a nearby bin.


    He then took the seat next to Brenna, his eyes soft but resolute as they met hers. ¡°I am yours. The decision about our marriage rests with you¡ªthere¡¯s no need for my input or my parents¡¯.¡±


    Greta felt a surge of envy at those words, her heart fluttering at Ethan¡¯s unwaveringmitment.


    She recognized that the bond between Ethan and Brenna was not something easily broken.


    Watching the suit fall into the trash, Jade¡¯s expression hardened as a sudden realization struck her¡ªEthan was disgusted by her presence.


    ¡°Is this your way of insulting me?¡± she hissed. ¡°Don¡¯t forget, you¡¯d be dead if it weren¡¯t for my help in Norview!¡±


    Ethan replied calmly, ¡°By the time you arrived, your father¡¯s men had already been defeated. They were never truly a threat.¡±


    Jade let out a cold snort, her appetite gone as she stared at the untouched food.


    She forced herself to calm down, reminding herself that no matter what, Ethan owed her a favor.


    ¡°Regardless, I helped you, and you owe me,¡± she said through clenched teeth. ¡°That¡¯s undeniable.¡±


    Her eyes flicked to Brenna¡¯s wlessplexion and elegant features.


    Brenna looked like a princess from a fairy tale. No wonder Ethan had fallen for her.


    Even Jade had to admit that Brenna was breathtaking.


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    However, she remained confident in her own unique charm, believing that sooner orter, Ethan would grow bored of Brenna.


    ¡°Miss Harper, are you really convinced that Ethan¡¯s love for you willst forever?¡± Jade asked.


    ¡°He loves me now, and that¡¯s all that matters,¡± Brenna answered. ¡°He doesn¡¯t even like you anymore.¡±


    Brenna valued what was hers, though she believed she didn¡¯t love Ethan. She was reserved and thought she probably wouldn¡¯t fall for anyone. But she saw that Ethan was a great man. He had protected her with his own life when she was in danger.


    Anyone who wanted what she had would need her permission first.


    Brenna grasped Ethan¡¯s hand firmly and said, ¡°He belongs to me.¡±


    Watching Brenna assert her im, Greta realized her chances of winning Ethan¡¯s heart were slim.


    Beneath Brenna¡¯s delicate exteriory a strong, unyielding resolve. Greta knew she couldn¡¯tpete with her.


    Jade, with a hint of mockery, believed that men¡¯s affections were unpredictable, swayed by changing loyalties and self-interest.


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    Thinking she and Ethan were alike, she was certain that in time, Ethan would be hers.


    ¡°Given how unpredictable life is,¡± Jade said, ¡°can you really be so certain?¡±


    Brenna smiled, but her eyes remained cold. ¡°My youth and beauty give me the advantage. You, on the other hand, don¡¯t have that. Ethan wouldn¡¯t want to be with you no matter what.¡±


    Jade¡¯s anger was clear as she eximed, ¡°How dare you say that!¡±


    Ethan¡¯s quietughter acknowledged Brenna¡¯s boldness. ¡°This is exactly why I love her,¡± he said.


    He ced a drumstick on Brenna¡¯s te and said, ¡°Dealing with Jade must be exhausting for you. You should have some protein.¡±


    After lunch, Ethan apanied Brenna back to her studio. He entered her office with her and closed the door behind them. Then, he quickly called his father.


    ¡°Dad, why is Jade free already? Weren¡¯t there hundreds of kilos of drugs found on her yacht? How could they release her with such serious charges?¡±


    A heavy sigh came through the phone. ¡°Do you remember the agent we lost six months ago? He¡¯s vital to our operations. We had to secure his release, and trading Jade was the only way to get him back.¡±


    Ethan listened to his father, lost in thought.


    Ethan was taken aback by the Ward family¡¯s audacity. Jade had just been freed through a trade, yet instead of fleeing to Norview, she and her family boldly remained here.


    ¡°Be cautious. There are probably bigger ns at work,¡± Emmett warned Ethan. ¡°The Ward family wouldn¡¯t stay without a good reason.¡±


    As their conversation ended, a message from Jade popped up on Ethan¡¯s phone¡ªan invitation to a hiking trip the next day.


    With a swift gesture, Ethan muted his phone.


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    Seeing this, Brenna said to him, ¡°You should agree. It¡¯s time to find out what Jade is nning.¡±


    Thiago finished his work at both studios and nced at his watch. It was well past ten in the evening. He grabbed his suit jacket from the back of his chair and left, carrying the weight of a long day on his shoulders.


    At a nearby street stall, he bought two sandwiches. He figured Ellie might still be awake, and they could share a midnight snack.


    The fingerprint scanner at Ellie¡¯s door let him in without any trouble. But as he stepped inside, he froze. An older woman with silver hair stood nearby in satin sleepwear. Her re could cut through steel.


    Thiago took a step back and double-checked the apartment number. ¡°I am indeed in the right ce,¡± he murmured.


    Tori studied him carefully. He was sharply dressed and holding a bag. He moved like someone who belonged here. Clearly, he was not Jayceon. Raising a slipper, ready to strike, she demanded, ¡°Who the hell are you?¡±


    Thiago¡¯s sharp gaze softened as he considered something. ¡°You must be the housekeeper Ellie hired,¡± he said.


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    Lately, Ellie had beenining about their packed schedules. No one was cleaning, looking after Patrick, or cooking. She had mentioned hiring a housekeeper.


    ¡°Housekeeper? I am not the housekeeper!¡± Tori shouted, hurling the slipper at Thiago in fury.


    Though experienced in fighting, Thiago wouldn¡¯t raise a hand against an older woman. He stepped back toward the doorway and gently caught her wrist to stop her. ¡°Then who are you?¡±


    To Tori, Thiago had to be the man Ellie had been involved with.


    She was angry, convinced Ellie hadn¡¯t be rich because of her job. She thought Ellie had gotten rich by messing around with several men, relying on them for money.


    Tori eximed in anger, ¡°I should be asking you the same question! What are you doing here in the middle of the night?¡±


    Hearing themotion, Ellie stepped out of the bedroom in her pajamas. Her damp hair clung to her shoulders. She had just gotten out of the shower.


    ¡°Mom, stop!¡± Ellie shouted. A headache wasing on as she saw what was unfolding. She hadpletely forgotten to tell Thiago that her family was here.


    Thiago had recently gone on a business trip, and she had been busy with work. That was why she hadn¡¯t informed him about the situation.


    She hadn¡¯t expected such a misunderstanding to ur.


    Ellie pulled Thiago inside and shut the door behind them.


    Tori¡¯s anger red at the sight of Ellie. Then, at the top of her lungs, she screamed, ¡°You better start talking! Who is this man? How many are you messing with? You shameless girl!¡±


    Leif and Hank quickly emerged from their rooms. Both were stunned at the sight of the well-dressed man standing in the middle of the living room. Hank shot Ellie a sly thumbs-up, impressed by her apparent sess innding yet another rich man.


    His mind raced¡ª which one of these men was Patrick¡¯s real father?


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    Theplexity of his sister¡¯s love life amused Hank. He leaned against the wall, thoroughly enjoying the drama.


    Meanwhile, Leif¡¯s face darkened like a storm. Jabbing a finger at Thiago, he snapped at Ellie, ¡°Who is this man?¡±


    ¡°Everyone, just calm down,¡± Ellie said, trying to steady her voice. ¡°This is my boyfriend, Thiago Moreno.¡±


    As she spoke, her cheeks flushed with embarrassment.


    Leif¡¯s eyebrows knitted together. ¡°Then what is your rtionship with Jayceon? I¡¯m getting confused.¡±


    The idea that his daughter might be sleeping around filled him with shame.


    Ellie took a steady breath and exined, ¡°Jayceon is Patrick¡¯s father. We broke up seven years ago. He¡¯s been pestering me to get back together with him, but there¡¯s nothing between us. Thiago is my boyfriend. We made it officialst month. He¡¯s been looking out for me in Norview these past few years.¡±


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    She looked at her parents, unsure if they would believe her.


    Suddenly, Hank thought of the expensive watch Jayceon had given him. If he had known about Thiago, he never would have epted it.


    What he had thought was a smart move now felt reckless. He should have talked to Ellie first before doing anything.


    He let out a quiet sigh. The damage was done, and returning the gift wasn¡¯t really an option. He was caught in a dilemma now.


    Hank studied Thiago. The man carried himself with undeniable authority. His tailored suit made him look every bit as wealthy as Jayceon.


    He offered a smile to Thiago.


    Meanwhile, Leif said nothing more. This potential son-inw seemed decent enough. With a grunt, he turned and headed back to his room.


    Tori, however, thought differently. With arms crossed, she snapped at Thiago, ¡°You two are already living together before getting married? And what brings you here at this hour?¡±


    Her re locked onto Thiago, sharp enough to cut steel.


    Thiago exchanged a nce with Ellie. He knew he wouldn¡¯t be able to stay here tonight.


    He held up the bag he was carrying and exined, ¡°I came here to bring some food to Ellie. Thought she might be hungry. But since you¡¯re all here, I¡¯ll be leaving now.¡±


    Not long after, Ellie walked Thiago down the stairs and whispered, ¡°I forgot to tell you they were here. I¡¯m so sorry.¡±


    Thiago nced up at the window. A head peeked through the curtains, watching them closely.


    ¡°My flight got moved up. I wanted to surprise you, but I was the one who got surprised,¡± he joked.


    He then reached into his pocket and pulled out a small velvet box. ¡°I picked this up while I was out of the country. Thought it might suit you.¡±


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    Tori watched Ellie and Thiago from the window like a hawk, her disapproval clear. In her mind, Thiago fell shortpared to Jayceon in every way.


    ¡°What does that man even do for a living?¡± she asked the moment Ellie stepped back inside. The questions came fast and sharp¡ªabout Thiago¡¯s ie, his family, his age, and whether he had been married before. With every question, Ellie¡¯s frustration grew.


    By the time Tori reached her twentieth question, something inside Ellie snapped.


    On Saturday afternoon, just after six, Brenna and Ethan pulled up at the entrance of a winding mountain road on the western outskirts of Shirie.


    Jade was already there, waiting.


    She wore leather from head to toe, the outfit hugging her figure perfectly. The yellow racing stripes on her car were striking. Arms crossed and blood-red lips twisted into a wicked grin, she said, ¡°Took you long enough. I almost thought you were too scared to show up.¡±


    With those words, she walked up to Ethan, her hips swaying with every step. ¡°Guess why I picked this ce?¡± she asked, though the question slipped out like a challenge.


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    Ethan didn¡¯t bother looking at her and curtly said, ¡°Race.¡±


    This mountain pass was infamous for its sharp turns curled above steep cliffs. The tarmac was smooth and fast, daring anyone to take it head-on.


    Hardly anyone came up here, but every street racer in the city knew this road. The moment Jade¡¯s invitation arrived, its meaning had been clear. Ethan and Brenna had understood Jade¡¯s intention as soon as they saw the location.


    ¡°I¡¯ve prepared something¡­ special,¡± Jade said, her eyes gleaming with cruel delight.


    ¡°What could possibly top racing here? Did you n something lethal?¡± Brenna said. She kept her gaze locked on Jade, catching the slight re in her pupils. She could see through Jade. This wasn¡¯t about winning. It was about getting rid of her. Jade wanted to humiliate her¡ªor worse, get her killed.


    For a moment, Jade¡¯s sneer slipped. She had assumed Brenna was too soft to handle a real race. But that vulnerability was just a mask. This woman had taken down trained men alongside Thiago. She had even killed Viper without blinking.


    Who moved through violence with that kind of grace? Only the devil could.


    And tonight, Jade nned to kill the devil dressed in human skin. But first, she needed Brenna to race her. Her crimson lips curved into a challenge as she sneered, ¡°What¡¯s the matter, Miss Harper? Scared of a little race?¡±


    Brennaughed, cold and sharp as the mountain wind. ¡°You¡¯re trying to provoke me into joining the race?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve never raced before, right?¡± Jade trailed her fingers along the roof of her car like it was a prized stallion. ¡°The thrill of hitting 200 on these curves¡­ unforgettable.¡±


    Brenna turned to Ethan and muttered, ¡°She¡¯s nning my crash. She thinks that after she kills me, she can im you.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s icy gaze swept over Jade. He had already seen through her.


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    ¡°And who exactly are you challenging?¡± he asked Jade. ¡°Do you want to race me or Brenna?¡±


    Jade¡¯s eyes gleamed. ¡°Now that¡¯s a question worth asking. I¡¯m thinking of something a little¡­ inventive. I wonder if you¡¯ll agree to it.¡±


    Ethan didn¡¯t blink. He knew how malicious she was. ¡°I¡¯m not doing anything that puts Brenna in danger.¡±


    Just then, three more cars rolled up.


    Brenna recognized them immediately.


    Jayceon stepped out first, followed by Denis. Then Ernst appeared¡ªwith unexpectedpany¡ªLilith.


    Lilith stepped from the passenger seat, wrapped in a cloud of citrus perfume.


    A momentter, Isabe got out of Denis¡¯s car.


    Isabe looked pleased with herself, draped in designer clothes and glittering jewelry. She had the glow of someone who had been living well.


    However, her mood soured the moment her eyesnded on Brenna. Trouble always seemed to follow whenever they crossed paths. Isabe gave Brenna a quick, dismissive nce and scoffed.


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    Lilith waved at Brenna, unaware of what was about to happen. Brenna returned a polite smile. She suspected her mother had forced Ernst to date Lilith.


    Seeing Ernst with Lilith made Brenna curious. Where was Sabine? Had she and Ernst broken up?


    She made a mental note to ask Ernst about thister.


    Just then, Jade pped her hands, her voice cutting through the air. ¡°Perfect timing. Let me exin the rules for today.¡±


    Jayceon sauntered forward and said, ¡°Since when do you get to make the rules?¡±


    A cold smile tugged at Ethan¡¯s lips. That was exactly what he wanted to say.


    Ernst stepped forward. ¡°Yeah, we¡¯re all important figures here. Why should we listen to you?¡±


    Neither he nor Jayceon bothered to hide their contempt. After all, they had already decided not to cooperate with Jade on business.


    Lilith edged closer to Brenna. ¡°Are they really going to race? I¡¯ve heard stories about this ce. Many peoplee here to race.¡±


    ¡°Yes. And Ernst should¡¯ve known better than to bring you here,¡± Brenna muttered, ncing at the treacherous curves ahead. ¡°It¡¯s too dangerous.¡±


    Denis thought differently from the rest. ¡°This is just a game. It¡¯s not lethal. Since when did you all be so timid?¡±


    Then he turned to Jade and shed a smile. ¡°Miss Hewitt, maybe they¡¯d consider joining for the right kind of reward?¡±


    Jade¡¯s nails dug into her palms. These men acted like they were above her¡ªso arrogant.


    ¡°The rules are simple,¡± Jade said, her tone ice-cold. ¡°The fastest time from the base to the summit barrier wins. The person who gets closest to the summit barrier will be the victor. Pull that off, and the entire Vand portfolio from the Ward family is yours.¡±


    Denis¡¯ eyes widened in shock. Even Jayceon¡¯s usualposure faltered. The prize was too irresistible to ignore.


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    Brenna and Ethan exchanged a look that revealed nothing. Their expressions were unreadable.


    Jade¡¯s lips tightened. Only Denis and Jayceon had taken the bait. Ethan¡¯s cold silence scraped at her pride. It seemed this was still not enough.


    ¡°The Ward family¡¯s Vand operations span twelve industries. This kind of opportunity won¡¯te again,¡± she added.


    Brenna studied her nails. ¡°You are indeed clever, Miss Hewitt. Setting the four powerful families against each other. Letting us bleed for scraps off your table while you sit back and reap the rewards.¡±


    She fixed a sharp gaze on Jade and sneered, ¡°Do you really think you¡¯re being generous by doing this? You must have ulterior motives, Miss Hewitt. The Ward family doesn¡¯t y clean. The moment someone epts your gift, their cargo gets gged. They¡¯ll be in trouble soon.¡±


    Ethan nodded, appreciating Brenna¡¯s insight. She was a finance graduate with her own studio. When it came to matters like this, she noticed what others missed.


    He turned to Jade and said, ¡°If the Ward family really wants to work with Vand enterprises, they could just open a tender. Why all the theatrics? Something¡¯s fishy.¡±


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    Jayceon¡¯s excitement quickly cooled at their words. Meanwhile, Ernst¡¯s gaze on Jade turned icy.


    Jade¡¯s true motives had been revealed. But she onlyughed. ¡°Why should I let outsiders profit when I have such¡­ aplished friends like you? Each of you has remarkable capability, and I¡¯ve taken notice.¡±


    ¡°I am not interested in your offer,¡± Ethan said coldly, leaving no room for doubt. He then slipped an arm around Brenna and led her toward the low-slung sports car.


    Seeing them about to leave, Jade stepped forward to stop them. ¡°Why the rush? Mr. Mitchell, you really won¡¯t consider annual profits in the billions?¡±


    ¡°I already told you, I¡¯m not interested.¡± Ethan slid into the car with Brenna. A secondter, the engine growled to life, and they pulled away.


    Not long after, Jayceon and Ernst followed suit. They got into their own cars and drove off.


    Jade¡¯s stiletto struck the pavement with a sharp crack. ¡°Short-sighted fools.¡±


    Denis approached her, slick with charm. ¡°Miss Hewitt, our Wagner Group is one of¡ª


    ¡°Vand¡¯s leading enterprises. Perhaps you and I could explore a possible partnership?¡±


    Jade shot Denis a sharp re. Ethan had hit the mark. The Ward family¡¯s most profitable ventures thrived in murky waters, far from anything that could undergo a public bid.


    ¡°We will go to the top of the mountain to talk,¡± Jade finally said to Denis.


    Meanwhile, Ethan and the others gathered at the Imperial Bar.


    Lilith clung to Brenna¡¯s arm, her eyes wide at the champagne-soaked mour. This was her first timeing to a ce like this.


    Her unease was obvious.


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    ¡°Do I have to drink alcohol here?¡± she asked, already dreading the thought of Ernst watching her stumble over herself.


    Brenna smiled. ¡°No. A beverage will do just fine.¡±


    Once they stepped into their usual private room, they all received an invitation from Jade¡ªto a rally in Shirie the following weekend.


    Ernst let out a snort. ¡°That lunatic has won race after race by driving like she¡¯s overdosed.¡±


    Jayceon was about to light a cigarette but stopped when he saw Brenna and Lilith. He quickly put the cigarette case back in his pocket.


    With a grim expression, he said, ¡°She won¡¯t stop until she gets what she wants.¡±


    Ethan nodded. ¡°Viper¡¯s death hit her hard. The Ward family¡¯s hold in Vand has been slipping. With Viper, the only one who knew their operations here, gone, the Ward family is desperate. They¡¯re eager to reopen the market in Vand through a perfect business partner.¡±


    Jayceon added, ¡°Our four families hold the widest salesworks in Vand. No matter which one they reel in, the Ward family can rebuild their business here fast¡ªand drag the rest of us down with them.¡±


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    Brenna¡¯s eyes swept across the men, sharp and cold. ¡°The Ward family is a disease. The whole world¡¯s getting sick of them.¡±


    Ethan patted her hand reassuringly. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. The government and the military will deal with them.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s lips curved slightly. ¡°To be honest, my studio recently received a coboration offer from Edward himself. I think the Ward family is nning to expand into several major economies and cash in big.¡±


    Jayceon¡¯s eyes turned cold. The fact that Edward had reached out to Brenna¡¯s rtively small studio caught him off guard. It spoke volumes not only about her skill in mechanical design but also about her sharp grasp of economics and finance.


    Brenna looked at the three men and said, ¡°So, I¡¯m nning to participate in the rally. I want to find out what Jade is really after.¡±


    As the low hum of whiskey-fueled business discussions filled the air, Brenna and Lilith found sce in a quiet corner, sipping on cocktails so light they might as well have been water.


    Brenna couldn¡¯t help but see a reflection of herself in Lilith. Both carried an air of reserved coolness, likely stemming from their mutual unfamiliarity with the crowd. Their conversation asionally faltered into silence, prompting them to retreat to the digitalfort of their smartphones.


    Watching Lilith, Brenna noticed she made no effort to impress Ernst, despite the Harper family¡¯s wealth and influence. Brenna found herself drawn to Lilith¡¯s effortless manner. Lilith had arrived in casual clothes, nothing shy or overly styled. Apart from the subtle color on her lips and neatly shaped brows, there was no sign she had dressed up to meet Ernst.


    This authenticity resonated deeply with Brenna.


    Later, at home, Brenna asked Ernst, ¡°Did you break up with Sabine?¡± Ernst nodded quietly. When their rtionship ended, he had realized just how much Sabine valued money. She had demanded ten million as a parting price, iming it was only fair after all the affection, time, and effort she had invested over the years.


    Sabine knew exactly what she was doing. Once the moneynded in her ount, she promised to keep everything between her and Ernst buried for good.


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    Sensing Ernst¡¯s reluctance to discuss the breakup further, Brenna simply said, ¡°Lilith seems genuine, unlike Sabine.¡±


    Ernst shrugged. His interaction with Lilith had been subdued; their words were few, as both were naturally reserved.


    He admitted he didn¡¯t know much about charming women. When he dated Sabine, she was always the one to keep the conversation going.


    ¡°If you and Mom approve of her, that¡¯s good enough for me,¡± Ernst said casually.


    Brennaughed. ¡°You¡¯re the one dating her, not Mom or me. Next time, maybe bring her a gift when you meet. Take a leaf out of Ethan¡¯s book¡ªhe always brings me small gifts when we meet.¡±


    She unted the rose Ethan had given her.


    Ernst rolled his eyes. He had known Ethan since childhood and knew him to be emotionally detached. Since when had Ethan be romantic? Still, if a man as insensible as Ethan could make an effort to keep his loved one happy, maybe it was time Ernst started putting in a little more effort himself.


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    ¡°Alright,¡± Ernst replied, his voice dripping with resignation.


    Back in her room, Brenna took a shower, slipped into her pajamas, and sat at her desk to work.


    On a busy Tuesday afternoon, as Brenna was leaving her office, Thiago approached, carrying a sleek ck briefcase. ¡°There are a few projects we need to discuss,¡± he said. ¡°How about we talk over dinner?¡±


    They drove separately to a well-known seafood restaurant in Shirie. Spanning three floors and covering 1,000 square meters, the restaurant was filled with patrons. A queue of hopeful diners waited outside.


    Being there for the first time, Brenna eyed the crowd with surprise. ¡°This ce must be something special,¡± she said.


    A slight smile crossed Thiago¡¯s lips. ¡°It¡¯s the food. It¡¯s exceptional. I made reservations a week ago to ensure we¡¯d get a good spot. The chef here is a wizard with seafood.¡±


    Despite being just two, they were seated at a spacious round table. Thiago, familiar with the menu, selected several dishes for Brenna to try. The busy restaurant meant a longer wait for their meal. In the meantime, Brenna and Thiago leaned close over business ns, discussing international strategies quietly.


    Unbeknownst to them, an elderly woman¡¯s gaze was fixed on them from another part of the restaurant.


    Their intense conversation was suddenly broken by a shrill outburst nearby. ¡°Thiago! You are my daughter¡¯s boyfriend, and you dare cheat on her with her friend?¡±


    Brenna spun around to face the user¡ªa stylishly dressed woman with bold makeup.


    A resounding p cut through the restaurant¡¯s chatter, sending Thiago reeling.


    Both Brenna and Thiago sprang to their feet at once, their eyes wide with surprise as they watched the elderly woman.


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    Brenna now saw the person clearly¡ªa woman dressed in striking red, her round figure tightly squeezed into the fabric, her face covered in heavy foundation that made her skin look ghostly white. She wore bold red lipstick.


    It was Ellie¡¯s mother, Tori.


    In disbelief, Brenna blurted, ¡°Tori?¡±


    Mirroring her, Thiago also eximed, ¡°Tori?¡±


    Both echoed each other¡¯s astonishment at seeing Tori here. A quick nce around the venue showed no sign of Ellie.


    Tori¡¯s face twisted with rage as she ced her hands on her hips and shouted, ¡°Have you no shame? What¡¯s gotten into you, Thiago? You went b


    Typically, Brenna and Thiago would have neutralized any threat before a strike could even be felt. However, this was Ellie¡¯s mother, making retaliation out of the question.


    ¡°Tori!¡± Brenna choked back her annoyance, dodging Tori¡¯s wild swings.


    Defensively, Thiago raised his arms. ¡°Tori, let me exin.¡±


    Tori didn¡¯t bother with manners or sugar-coated words. To her, the situation was simple¡ªThiago was fooling around with Brenna, making no effort to hide it, and acting bold enough to unt the affair where anyone passing by could see.


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    As sheshed out at Thiago, she yelled insults. Her barrage of usations flew as she shouted, ¡°One of you is Ellie¡¯s boyfriend, and the other her best friend. How could you betray Ellie like this? I¡¯ll teach you a hard lesson!¡±


    Tightening her jaw, Brenna found Tori¡¯s antics ridiculous. Thiago tried to speak, but Tori¡¯s loudints drowned him out.


    Stepping in, Brenna pulled Tori away with a firm and unexpectedly strong grip that caused her significant pain.


    Dramatically, Tori screamed, ¡°These shameless people are trying to kill me!¡±


    The entire restaurant¡¯s patrons turned their gaze toward them, whispers of judgment spreading.


    Tori continued shouting at the top of her lungs, iming Brenna had tried to harm her. The nearby customers didn¡¯t hesitate to use Brenna of using her youth to bully someone older and more vulnerable.


    Annoyed, Brenna despised such baseless attacks and the judgment, typical of self-entitled seniors, before understanding the full situation from Tori.


    Her hold remained firm as she confronted Tori coldly. ¡°What exactly did you think you saw? Must you scream without understanding the full story?¡±


    Tori wasn¡¯t the type to back down easily. Her features scrunched in pain, but she brushed off the question and raised her voice even more. ¡°Someone help! They¡¯re trying to kill me!¡±


    The uproar caught the attention of the restaurant staff and the manager.


    Approaching them, the manager suggested diplomatically, ¡°Miss, maybe it¡¯s best to let her go. We must be careful with the elderly. Any harm to her could bring serious consequences.¡±


    Recognizing the manager¡¯s genuine concern, Brenna guessed that Ellie might be nearby. Further confrontation would onlyplicate matters for her.


    With a sigh of frustration, Brenna released her hold.


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    Tori, still overacting, rubbed her wrist and said, ¡°You think this makes it right? You are shameless!¡±


    Thiago felt utterly bewildered by Tori¡¯s usations and tried to calm her patiently. ¡°Tori, you need to calm down. We can talk this through. Brenna is my boss, and we were merely discussing business just now. There is nothing between us.¡±


    ¡°Liar!¡± shouted Tori, spitting the word with such force that drops of saliva sprayed from her mouth. ¡°Since when do people sit so close to discuss work? Don¡¯t think I didn¡¯t notice¡ªyou two had your heads so near, you might as well have been kissing. What a disgusting disy in public.¡±


    With his hands balled into fists, Thiago restrained himself solely because of Tori¡¯s connection to Ellie.


    Tori¡¯s usations grew wilder, slinging mud at Thiago¡¯s family and threatening to prevent any marriage between him and Ellie.


    A fury smoldered within Thiago, yet he forced himself to stayposed. He knew better than to act on his anger.


    Brenna was baffled by the contrast between Ellie¡¯s rational demeanor and her mother¡¯s irrational outbursts.


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    In the next moment, Brenna pped Tori.


    Tori was visibly shaken, clearly not expecting the blow.


    Brenna calmly said, ¡°Thiago and I are simply coworkers. Why would we even choose such a visible spot for an affair?¡±


    Tori, however, was fixated only on the fact that she had been struck by someone younger. To her, the act was deeply offensive.


    ¡°Enough of your nonsense!¡± Tori eximed, outraged. ¡°It¡¯s astonishing that someone as young and attractive as you could act so shamefully, flirting openly with someone else¡¯s boyfriend. You have no decency!¡±


    With an angry snort, she added, ¡°Is that what this is about? You can¡¯t stand that Elliended someone wealthy and good-looking, so you seduced her boyfriend. You are jealous of Ellie!¡±


    Continuing her rant, she turned toward Thiago. ¡°Men today grow arrogant with a little wealth. You slept with my daughter but didn¡¯t marry her. Now, you¡¯ve even cheated on her! Ellie is lucky not to have married you.¡±


    ¡°Mom!¡± At that moment, Ellie burst in, apanied by Patrick, and behind them trailed Leif, Hank, and a young girl.


    Tori wasted no time walking over to Ellie. ¡°Look at this! Your boyfriend is cheating on you with your best friend!¡±


    ¡°Mom, please, let¡¯s not cause amotion here.¡± Ellie interrupted Tori¡¯s heatedint and turned to apologize to the manager and the staff. Seeing the situation was calming down, the manager left with the staff.


    Ellie firmly guided Tori to a seat, her frustration evident. She was astonished that in the brief moment she had parked the car, Tori had caused such a scene.


    She exined to Tori, ¡°Brenna and Thiago have been my trusted friends for a long time. They would never do anything to hurt me.¡±


    Tori, still seething, touched her reddened cheek. ¡°Ellie, after everything that¡¯s happened, how can you overlook this? Are you even aware of what they were doing just now?¡±


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    She pressed her fingertips together, exasperated. ¡°I saw them earlier, closer than you could imagine. I even feel ashamed for them!¡±


    Leif was about to step in, but Hank held him back.


    Spotting Thiago, Hank greeted him happily. ¡°Thiago! Ellie had some free time today and brought us here for a meal. I didn¡¯t expect to see you here. What a coincidence!¡±


    Leif muttered under his breath, ¡°Must you always treat every guy close to Ellie like they¡¯re your best friend? Stop being such a sycophant.¡±


    His expression was one of disappointment as he watched Hank try to tter Thiago.


    Tori, not yet finished, continued her rant. ¡°Appearances can be deceiving! That friend of yours¡ªshe¡¯s attractive, sure, but that¡¯s exactly why she¡¯s dangerous! She definitely seduced your boyfriend on purpose! Ellie, you need to cut ties with a maniptive individual like her!¡±


    She still felt the sting of the earlier p, and her eyes bore into Brenna with malice. ¡°She is clearly the type who always seduces men using her good looks. I¡¯ve encountered countless women like her before.¡±


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    Embarrassed by Tori, Ellie quickly said, ¡°Mom, you¡¯ve got it all wrong. Brenna isn¡¯t just some woman; she¡¯s the daughter of the powerful Harper family. She also owns two studios that generate billions every year! Even Thiago works for her. And she has a boyfriend. Please, no more unfounded usations.¡±


    Tori¡¯s eyes grew wide with shock; she hadn¡¯t expected Brenna to be so wealthy.


    ¡°Really? Is what you said true?¡± she asked.


    Ellie nodded with a serious expression. ¡°Yes, I¡¯ve visited her home before. Her mother even gifted me something expensive. You must apologize to her now. If the Harpers hear about this, we could face serious repercussions.¡±


    Tori¡¯splexion drained as she imagined the power of wealthy families to devastate lives effortlessly, amon trope in movies.


    She was now genuinely afraid of Brenna.


    With a quavering voice, Tori said, ¡°Miss Harper, please ept my deepest apologies. I am just an ignorant old woman who often talks nonsense. Please forgive my careless words earlier.¡±


    She caught Brenna¡¯s cold stare, tinged with a threat, and recalled how firmly Brenna had held her wrist to stop her before.


    A real fear gripped her. She believed that if she didn¡¯t apologize sincerely, Brenna might find a chance to harm her.


    Panic rising, she gripped Brenna¡¯s hand, her knees weak. ¡°I¡¯m always saying the wrong things. Feel free to reprimand or punish me as you see fit. I ept all consequences.¡±


    A faint smile yed on Brenna¡¯s lips as she was struck by the drastic change in Tori¡¯s attitude.


    Recognizing her as Ellie¡¯s mother, Brenna chose to be lenient. ¡°Let¡¯s just forget about what happened earlier.¡±


    Ellie, seeking to smooth things over, gently touched Thiago¡¯s arm. ¡°Please forgive my mom. She just jumped to wrong conclusions.¡±


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    Thiago¡¯s gaze softened. ¡°I¡¯m not offended. No apologies necessary,¡± he said to Tori.


    The way Thiago and Ellie looked at each other was full of tenderness. Brenna raised an eyebrow, recalling how just two months ago, Thiago had only been friends with Ellie.


    How had Thiago and Ellie gotten together so quickly? From what Tori had said, it seemed they were already living together.


    Brenna didn¡¯t even know when they had moved in together.


    Politely, Thiago invited the Moores to join their table, ordering several more dishes.


    As they waited for the food to arrive, Thiago and Brenna plunged back into a discussion about work.


    Hank and his girlfriend listened in awe to the scale of transactions they were discussing¡ªmillions exchanged internationally¡ªfar beyond their usual experience. This only deepened their admiration for Brenna and Thiago.


    A shared thought suddenly struck them: if they could form a connection with Brenna, the daughter of the powerful Harper family, sess coulde easily with just a single word from her.


    .


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    .

 Chapter 478

    ?Chapter 478:


    So theyvished Brenna with praise and eagerly engaged her in conversation. Ellie, observing her brother¡¯s obvious ttery, felt a strong urge to disappear from the embarrassing disy.


    Ellie had never felt this humiliated in front of Brenna before. She had no idea how to even apologize.


    After they finished eating, Ellie insisted on paying the bill. It was the only way she could think to make amends.


    Sitting beside Ellie, Tori muttered, ¡°Isn¡¯t your friend from some big-shot family? If she is that rich, then you should let her pay the bill.¡±


    Ellie shot her a re. Then, without a word, she got up and walked toward the counter to settle the bill.


    Tori scowled. ¡°What? Where are you going? Did I say something wrong?¡±


    Thiago sighed at Tori¡¯s behavior.


    Though irritated, he said nothing and followed Ellie. In his mind, it wasn¡¯t right to let a woman handle the bill alone.


    When Brenna got home, her phone lit up with a stream of apology messages from Thiago and Ellie.


    The next evening, Ellie slipped into a canary yellow dress. She grabbed a white handbag and changed her shoes by the door.


    Just then, Tori stepped out of the kitchen with a stack of dishes. ¡°Dinner¡¯s almost ready. Where are you going?¡±


    Still buckling her shoes, Ellie turned with a sh of anger. ¡°After what you didst night, what do you think? You insulted my best friend. I¡¯ve spent the whole day sending her messages to apologize, but she still hasn¡¯t replied. I¡¯m going to treat her to a proper meal.¡±


    Tori didn¡¯t look the least bit sorry. Instead, she said, ¡°Rich people are too sensitive. I just said a few things, and she pped me. I didn¡¯t even ask for an apology, but she dares to ignore you now? That¡¯s ridiculous.¡±


    Ellie seethed. The truth was, Brenna had forgiven her the moment she received the apology. She just needed a reason to leave the house.


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    She said, ¡°That¡¯s enough. When you see her again, mind what you say. She¡¯s used to being treated like royalty. She¡¯s never been treated like that before.¡±


    Tori crossed her arms defiantly. ¡°How is that my fault? She sat too close to Thiago. Anyone would have taken it the wrong way. And she calls herself your best friend? So petty. She doesn¡¯t act like someone from a rich and refined family at all.¡±


    Ellie felt resigned. Tori was stubborn to the core, never willing to admit she was wrong.


    With a sigh, she said, ¡°Mom, please, just think before you talk next time.¡± Then she left the house.


    Just outside the neighborhood, Thiago waited for Ellie in his car. The moment Ellie got inside, she startedining about her mother.


    After they arrived at a hotel, Thiago¡¯s arm circled Ellie¡¯s waist as they walked down the corridor.


    ¡°I can¡¯t deal with my mom. She¡¯s clearly wrong, but she twists everything and mes everyone else. I don¡¯t even know how I¡¯m going to face Brenna from now on,¡± Ellie let out a quiet sigh. ¡°I¡¯ll have to treat her to a meal and properly apologize soon.¡±


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 Chapter 479

    ?Chapter 479:


    Thiago smiled softly. ¡°Brenna¡¯s not the type to hold grudges. She knows you¡¯re not your mom. I¡¯m sure she won¡¯t me you for any of it.¡±


    Little did they know, a young couple had been trailing them. The man, Jordy, wore a smug grin as he kept his arm around hispanion¡¯s waist. The woman beside him didn¡¯t seem as enthusiastic. She wore a baseball cap and sunsses, her face hidden beneath carefully styled hair.


    As they followed, something about the pair caught the woman¡¯s attention. She lowered her sunsses just enough for a clearer view. Suddenly, she froze, her eyes lighting up with recognition. Without wasting a second, she began snapping photos of Thiago and Ellie with her phone.


    She even captured them entering their hotel room.


    Once inside their own suite, the woman peeled off her disguise. Sylvie¡¯s delicate features came into view.


    Jordy pushed Sylvie onto the bed and whispered, ¡°Put the phone down. We¡¯ve got better things to do.¡±


    Sylvie shoved him away. ¡°Did you see the woman in front of us just now? She looked like Brenna!¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Jordy mumbled while kissing her. ¡°You¡¯ve got all my attention.¡±


    Sylvie pushed her phone into his hands. ¡°Look at this. Isn¡¯t that Brenna? She¡¯s in this hotel with some man.¡±


    Jordy looked at the photos. ¡°Yeah. The woman seems to be Brenna. Anyway, stop wasting my time. Do you want the loan or not?¡±


    Albeit reluctantly, Sylvie set the phone aside. But even as sheplied, her mind reyed the times she had been humiliated because of Brenna. These photos would be perfect revenge.


    A cruel smile yed on her lips. She wondered how Ethan would feel if he learned that Brenna was in a hotel with another man.


    With one hand, she retrieved her phone and sent the photos to Rosie.


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    Rosie was in her room, meticulously sorting throughpany documents. Having regained her ability to walk, she had visited her businesses and found a mountain of paperwork to deal with.


    The volume of work was overwhelming for just one office visit, so she had taken some files home.


    After checking her phone, Rosie saw the photos sent by Sylvie and immediately recognized that the woman was not Brenna.


    Not even a striking double would be enough to deceive anyone, and Brenna could still effortlessly shoot down ms.


    After countless failed attempts to bring down Brenna, Rosie was well aware that this clumsy smear tactic would only backfire.


    Moreover, if Ethan found out about her involvement, he would sever ties with her for good.


    Having recently acquired a small portion of shares in the Harper Group from Luther, Rosie was concentrating on gaining additional shares to secure a position on the board.


    Once she became a voting shareholder, Brenna wouldn¡¯t be able to target her easily.


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 Chapter 480

    Chapter 480:


    Now was not the moment for petty acts of vengeance against Brenna.


    Rosie responded briskly on her phone, ¡°This won¡¯t work. Stand down now.¡±


    Exiting the bathroom, Sylvie frowned at Rosie¡¯s message. ¡°I thought Rosie despised Brenna the most,¡± she said to Jordy. ¡°Why let such a golden chance for a scandal slip through our fingers?¡±


    Sylvie was confused by Rosie¡¯s response, so she decided to call her.


    After a while, disappointed by Rosie¡¯s justification, Sylvie ended the call in frustration and chose to go ahead with the n on her own.


    Haunted by previous embarrassments at Brenna¡¯s hands, Sylvie picked the most incriminating photos and forwarded them to a friend.


    On Friday morning, Brenna was at Shirie University, her ponytail bobbing as she walked through the campus dressed in a striped shirt, jeans, and sneakers, blending seamlessly with the students.


    Shirie University, renowned as one of the nation¡¯s premier institutions, spanned thousands of acres adorned with well-manicuredndscapes. Towering trees lined¡­


    Serenekes and scenic flower beds dotted the grounds. Leisurely cats sunbathed on the paths, and ck swans sailed across the waters with a noble aloofness.


    Intent on capturing the university vibe, Brenna took several photos with her phone, carefully arranging them before uploading them to her social media.


    Watching the students, she reminisced about her own university days, which had been dominated by the need to earn tuition rather than enjoying such leisurely moments.


    Being invited to this esteemed campus felt like a second chance at the university life she had missed.


    Brenna¡¯s eye-catching presence attracted plenty of attention, with a few male students going out of their way to pass by her, their eyes widening in open admiration.


    After getting directions from a friendly student, Brenna navigated her way to the administration building and headed for the principal¡¯s office.


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    Frank Lee, the principal, was a well-built, striking man in his forties, standing a solid six feet tall with none of the weight that usually came with age. In his office, several young professors were impressed upon seeing Brenna, who was beautiful and had schrly achievements that outshone theirs.


    ¡°Allow me to introduce the daughter of Professor Harper,¡± Frank said. ¡°She¡¯s a graduate of MIT and¡­¡±


    By noon, Brenna left Frank¡¯s office to find the campus alive with students heading to lunch.


    A group of girls discreetly scrutinized her physique,paring it to photos on their phones.


    Their screens showed a buzzing post from the campus forum: ¡°Petition to Stop the Morally Dubious Harper Daughter from Lecturing Here!¡±


    The post, online for only five hours, had already garnered tens of thousands of views and hundreds ofments.


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    Message from Noah: Good night dear ones. God loves you and Noah whishes you all the best. ????(? ?? ? ¨C ? ) ?


    .

 Chapter 481

    ?Chapter 481:


    ¡°Is that her silhouette in the photos?¡± whispered one of the girls.


    ¡°She¡¯s wearing a different outfit, but the body shape, the wavy hair, and hair color are the same,¡± another responded.


    ¡°She seems so innocent, yet her private life is filled with scandals,¡± added one.


    ¡°Rich people sure know how to have their fun!¡±


    They followed Brenna at a distance, taking sneaky photos to upload online. ¡°Take a look and judge for yourselves. Isn¡¯t it obvious this is the exact same person?¡±


    The thread exploded with responses. Someone even posted a sharp, front-facing photo of Brenna.


    ¡°The figure lines up exactly. It¡¯s her without a doubt!¡± onement said.


    ¡°How can we allow someone like her to lecture at our university?¡± another asked. ¡°This campus is sacred ground! We should kick someone like her out!¡±


    ¡°Exactly!¡± others agreed.


    Meanwhile, Brenna was clueless about the chaos on the university¡¯s forum. But Sylvie kept a close eye on it all from her private ount, skillfully fanning the mes.


    In just one hour, she noticed thirty additional anti-Brenna threads on the forum. She then posted scandalous hotel photos of Thiago and Ellie.


    The forum blew up with hundreds ofments flooding in within ten minutes, while screenshots quickly made their way onto Twitter.


    That afternoon, Brenna was immersed in refining fighter jet blueprints at her studio when her phone buzzed with a string of notifications. She barely nced at them. Just another baseless rumor.


    These things neversted more than three days before slipping into obscurity. Why bother?


    Meanwhile, Thiago had immediately recognized the photos. They were stolen shots of him and Ellie walking into their hotel room.


    Cont3nt hozt3d at g??l??ovels.??o??


    Phone in hand, he went to see Brenna, asking her opinion on the matter.


    ¡°Just ignore it,¡± Brenna said without looking up.


    There was an amused glint in her eyes. She had clearly recognized the figures in the photos. With a smirk, she remarked, ¡°Your rtionship with Ellie is moving fast.¡±


    Thiago chuckled but stayed on topic. ¡°We should clear this up. You¡¯re set to lecture at Shirie University next Monday. This could damage your reputation. These posts are all over social media and local forums. Someone¡¯s definitely paying to spread them. If Mr. Mitchell sees them, he might misunderstand.¡±


    Brenna looked at him, her expression calm. ¡°If he can¡¯t tell the difference between gossip and truth, then he¡¯s not fit to be my boyfriend or the CEO of the Mitchell Group.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s indifference to public opinion was as unshakable as ever. With this thought, Thiago sighed.


    After a moment, he said, ¡°I¡¯ll exin everything to Mr. Mitchell myself.¡±


    He then ced a call to Ethan.


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 Chapter 482

    ?Chapter 482:


    At Mitchell Group headquarters, Neville rushed into Ethan¡¯s office, a folder in hand, reporting about the viral posts.


    Without even looking up from the files he was reviewing, Ethan ordered sharply, ¡°I¡¯ve seen them. Tell IT to clean up every tform. I don¡¯t want a single negative word about Brenna online.¡±


    Neville nced at him, uneasy. The CEO who was alwaysposed now looked to be in a bad mood.


    Neville believed the woman in the photos looked a lot like Brenna. He was almost sure it was her.


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell,¡± Neville said carefully, ¡°this looks like a misunderstanding. Maybe Miss Harper was just¡ª¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not her. Don¡¯t make me repeat myself.¡± Ethan red at him icily. Sweat soaked the back of Neville¡¯s shirt. He had endured Ethan¡¯s coldness for years, but he had never seen him this angry.


    From the way Ethan examined the photos, it was clear he had recognized the man in them.


    ¡°Shall I handle this man for you?¡± Neville asked cautiously.


    He had recognized the man too. It was Thiago, Brenna¡¯s business partner¡ªthe same man who had looked at Brenna affectionately at the Imperial Bar thest time.


    ¡°Enough,¡± Ethan said. The temperature in the room seemed to drop with his cold tone.


    Neville didn¡¯t need to be told twice. ¡°I¡¯ll get every tform scrubbed clean right now.¡±


    He had barely reached the door when Ethan¡¯s phone rang.


    It was an unknown number. Ethan rejected the call without hesitation, his expression dark.


    Seeing that, Neville quickly fled.


    Exclusive updates avable g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s


    Meanwhile, Thiago stared at the screen, unsettled by the fact that Ethan had refused to answer his call.


    ¡°Brenna, we know the truth. But love makes fools of us all. Mr. Mitchell cares about you. He might lose his grip when he sees those photos. If he misunderstands this¡­ the consequences could be serious,¡± he said, his voice low with concern.


    Brenna¡¯s expression was unreadable. ¡°There¡¯s no need. If he¡¯s quick to assume the worst, it only means he doesn¡¯t trust me. And I don¡¯t waste time exining myself to people who don¡¯t trust me.¡±


    Thiago dragged a hand through his hair in frustration. ¡°Then I¡¯ll go exin the matter to him in person.¡±


    Without waiting for Brenna¡¯s response, he turned and left the studio.


    He kept calling Ethan the whole drive. Every unanswered call tightened the knot in his chest.


    When he arrived at Ethan¡¯spany, Thiago was stopped by the receptionist. Without an appointment, he was unable to see Ethan.


    With no other option, Thiago made his way to the underground garage and waited by Ethan¡¯s car.


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 Chapter 483

    ?Chapter 483:


    In his office, Ethan sat at his desk, stacks of unsigned contracts in front of him. But his eyes stayed fixed on one thing¡ªthe photo on his phone.


    The image burned into his mind.


    He recognized Thiago instantly. And the woman¡¯s pale yellow dress looked like the one Brenna had worn before.


    Lately, even when Brenna brought him lunch or remembered how he liked his coffee, there was a subtle distance in the way she treated him.


    Unlike other women who clung to him with open desperation, Brenna¡¯s love for him was too rational. That made him wonder if she loved him at all.


    When his phone rang again from the same unknown number, Ethan finally picked up.


    ¡°Who¡¯s this?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell, thank God you answered,¡± Thiago said, his voice crackling with urgency. ¡°It¡¯s Thiago. We need to talk about those photos.¡±


    ¡°Speak,¡± Ethan urged coldly.


    Thiago didn¡¯t hesitate. ¡°You¡¯ve already seen the photos, right? That¡¯s me in them.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s chest tightened, and he said, ¡°Are you calling me just to rub it in?¡±


    ¡°Calm down and listen,¡± Thiago quickly said. ¡°The woman in the photos is not Brenna; it¡¯s Ellie.¡±


    Thiago¡¯s face softened slightly. Despite Brenna¡¯s apparent indifference to her reputation, he believed her reputation was important since she was a young woman.


    Just then, the receptionist walked over after receiving a phone call. She approached Thiago politely. ¡°Mr. Moreno, the CEO has asked me to escort you to his office. Please follow me.¡±


    Thiago nodded appreciatively. ¡°Thank you.¡±


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    Suddenly, a loud voice echoed from the entrance. ¡°Stop! Where do you think you¡¯re going?¡±


    Thiago turned to find Jayceon striding toward him, his expression contorted with anger.


    Thiago knew the cause of Jayceon¡¯s fury. His expression turned sardonic, a thin smile ying on his lips as he casually slid his hands into his pockets, unbothered by Jayceon¡¯s rage.


    Jayceon lunged forward, aiming to seize Thiago by the cor and hurl him to the floor.


    But Thiago smoothly avoided the attack. Jayceon stumbled, missing his target.


    As tensions escted toward confrontation, the receptionist hastily dialed the CEO¡¯s office for intervention.


    Failing in his aggressive attempt, Jayceon¡¯s anger intensified. He rushed at Thiago again, only to miss as Thiago dodged effortlessly.


    Thiago¡¯s smile spread wider, a mocking gleam in his eyes. ¡°Don¡¯t you get it? You¡¯re no match for me,¡± he taunted, his gaze full of provocation.


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 Chapter 484

    ?Chapter 484:


    Jayceon adjusted his tie, frustration evident. ¡°What¡¯s the deal with you and Ellie?¡±


    With a dismissive tone, Thiago said, ¡°Ellie isn¡¯t under yourmand, nor do I answer to you. We don¡¯t owe you any exnations.¡±


    Meanwhile, in the top-floor office, Ethan had received the receptionist¡¯s urgent call and descended to the first floor.


    Exiting the elevator, Ethan saw Jayceon stagger from a kick by Thiago, sliding across the slick floor.


    Ethan was momentarily surprised by Thiago¡¯s fighting skills, but then he quickly remembered how Thiago and Brenna had once defeated Jayceon and many of his henchmen.


    Dealing with someone like Jayceon seemed very easy for Thiago.


    Jayceon, his anger boiling over, was set on reiming Ellie by confronting Thiago¡ªthe one who had taken her from him.


    His clothes were torn, exposing the shirt beneath, while his face was swollen and bruised, making him appear rather pitiful.


    He faced Thiago, defiance in his voice. ¡°I won¡¯t give up on winning Ellie back. I¡¯m Patrick¡¯s father. You¡¯ll never take my ce!¡±


    Thiago straightened his tie calmly. ¡°So what? I was there for Ellie when she needed someone the most. All her hardships back then? They were your doing. She hasn¡¯t forgotten that.¡±


    His words struck Jayceon harshly, leaving him speechless and overwhelmed, unable to muster aeback.


    The four receptionists nearby averted their gaze, steering clear of the escting tension. They were well aware of Jayceon¡¯s close ties with the CEO and his frequent use of Ethan¡¯s private elevator. They wouldn¡¯t dare intervene.


    This time, it seemed they had stumbled upon a piece of drama they were never meant to witness. Now, they feared Ethan might silence them because of it. They recoiled, acting as though they hadn¡¯t seen or heard a thing.


    Ethan approached Jayceon, taking him by the arm to stop him from lunging at Thiago again. ¡°Enough. You are no match for him in a fight. Let¡¯s talk upstairs.¡±


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    He then turned a stern look toward Thiago. ¡°Come with us.¡±


    Thiago entered the CEO¡¯s private elevator alongside them, while a bruised Jayceon continued to stare him down defiantly.


    Earlier that day, Jayceon had stumbled upon a social media post. While others had guessed the woman was Brenna, he had instantly recognized the true identities of the couple in the photo.


    He had been furious. Despite his efforts to win Ellie back with apologies and romantic overtures, he was crushed to discover she had moved on with another man.


    Unwilling to ept this, Jayceon was determined to make Thiago pay.


    His search had led him to Brenna¡¯s studio, where he found Thiago absent. He then tried Thiago¡¯s home but to no avail. Finally, information led him to this location, and he came as soon as possible, fueled by fury.


    ¡°Ethan, let go of me! I will beat him to death!¡± Jayceon eximed.


    Thiago¡¯sugh was low and mocking. ¡°You can try. Killing me will only make Ellie detest you further. Remember how you broke her spirit, bit by bit, until she hated you? You say you love her, but your actions? You¡¯ve constantly been seen with other women. Even her move back to Shirie changed nothing. Do you really think she¡¯d forgive you?¡±


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 Chapter 485

    ?Chapter 485:


    ¡°I brought those women with me only for business,¡± Jayceon snapped back, his face red with anger.


    Thiago scoffed. ¡°Really? Business? Then why doesn¡¯t Mr. Mitchell have these kinds of ¡®business¡¯ gatherings?¡±


    He then nced at Ethan, wondering why Ethan was friends with someone like Jayceon.


    Though Jayceon recognized his errors, he was not ready to concede. He believed his heart belonged solely to Ellie. He would never fall for anyone else.


    ¡°I can offer her a life of luxury. Can youpete with that?¡± Jayceon said.


    Thiago responded with a soft chuckle. ¡°I may not match your wealth, but I am no ordinary individual.¡±


    Thiago¡¯s eyes narrowed. Had Ellie not stopped him, the Russell family would have been facing an economic disaster by now.


    It wouldn¡¯t be a challenge for him to bring down the Russell family, given his abilities.


    Thiago considered Jayceon a total jerk. Despite his derations of love for Ellie, Jayceon constantly flirted with other women. Thiago had always found him unpleasant butcked the opportunity to confront him.


    When Jayceon entered Ethan¡¯s office, he lost control and swung a punch at Thiago with all his strength.


    Thiago caught Jayceon¡¯s fist effortlessly, his expression remainingposed. Using the momentum, he swiftly pinned him to the floor.


    ¡°I¡¯m utterly tired of your antics. Do you understand the pain you¡¯ve inflicted on Ellie?¡± With that, Thiagonded a solid punch on Jayceon¡¯s face.


    From the sidelines, Ethan watched the scene with a furrowed brow, choosing not to intervene. He took a cigarette from his pocket and lit it.


    For him, the issues were unimportant since Brenna wasn¡¯t the woman in the photos.


    Keep reading at .c¡ðm


    He believed Thiago was giving Jayceon a well-deserved lesson for how he had mishandled his rtionship with Ellie.


    In no time, Jayceon was left bruised and battered.


    Ethan took onest drag from his cigarette, feeling it was time to interfere. If he didn¡¯t, Jayceon¡¯s handsome face might be ruined forever.


    ¡°Enough,¡± Ethan said, pulling Thiago back.


    He then assisted Jayceon to his feet and looked at him, hoping he would grasp the grim reality of his failed rtionship with Ellie.


    Upon returning home, Brenna sensed an unusually tense atmosphere. The servants were silent and cautious, casting nces her way. Julia walked over, looking worried. ¡°Ms. Harper, are you okay?¡±


    Brenna was confused. ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t I be?¡±


    The other servants looked in Brenna¡¯s direction, their expressions a mix of sympathy and anger.


    ¡°What has happened? Is there trouble at home?¡± Brenna asked.


    ¡°It¡¯s the online rumors about you,¡± Julia exined. ¡°Your parents are deeply concerned and trying to trace the source. Your brothers are also addressing the allegations online.¡±


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 Chapter 486

    ?Chapter 486:


    Brenna understood everything and replied casually, ¡°Oh, I understand. But really, it¡¯s not a big deal. Why is everyone so worried?¡±


    Julia looked shocked by Brenna¡¯s casual dismissal. ¡°This is serious. Your reputation and your prospects for marriage could be damaged because of this. If Mr. Mitchell sees those photos, he¡¯ll surely get the wrong idea. How can you say it¡¯s not a big deal?¡±


    Brenna offered a slight smile, remaining unfazed. ¡°It¡¯s okay. Rumors like these will fade away soon. Those who believe in me don¡¯t need exnations, and for those who don¡¯t, exnations wouldn¡¯t make a difference anyway.¡±


    After saying this, she ascended the stairs to find her mother, Giselle, seated on the couch in the small living room on the third floor, with a grave expression, engaged in a phone call.


    ¡°Frank, there¡¯s always someone causing trouble on the school forum. The administrator allows those posts to linger to keep the forum lively. I usually overlook it, but now there are false rumors circting about Brenna¡¯s personal life. This is nder and illegal. I need you to ensure that the administrator removes those posts and stops any further discussions of the matter.¡± Giselle¡¯s face burned with anger, and her tone was firm.


    Brenna approached and sat next to Giselle, smiling to reassure her mother that she was okay.


    However, from Giselle¡¯s viewpoint, it appeared Brenna was masking her true feelings with that smile, already troubled by the rumors.


    Giselle took Brenna¡¯s hand, offeringfort, while she continued her phone discussion. ¡°We need to find where this all started and make sure those spreading lies face serious consequences. Brenna is an honorable young woman. She is passionate about her research and design work and has seen considerable sess. Envious people are trying to tarnish her reputation, and I will not stand for it.¡±


    Frank responded in a serious tone, ¡°I understand, and I¡¯m on it. I have already sent a team to look into this and have summoned the forum administrator. We¡¯ll deal with this promptly. Our institution is meant for education, not for fostering gossip.¡±


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    After giving a few more directives, Giselle ended the call, still visibly upset. She turned to Brenna. ¡°No one can defame a Harper without facing consequences. Brenna, don¡¯t worry. We¡¯ll get to the bottom of this.¡±


    Brenna felt reassured by Giselle¡¯s firm stance. Her mother¡¯s initial reaction wasn¡¯t to interrogate her or me her for the scandal but to stand by her. Brenna gently embraced Giselle. ¡°Mom, it¡¯s just harmless gossip. It¡¯s not worth getting upset over.¡±


    Giselle squeezed her hand and said, ¡°My dear, don¡¯t take your reputation lightly. It¡¯s crucial for a woman in your position. There¡¯s a schemer behind this, trying to destroy you. Imagine if, when you go to the university on Monday, everyone thinks you¡¯re someone who casually sleeps with men. That could ruin your work and affect your future profoundly.¡±


    At that moment, Shepard stepped out of the bedroom, clutching his phone. His face was dark with dissatisfaction over how poorly his team had handled the task.


    He turned to Giselle and Brenna and began venting his frustration, saying, ¡°How long has it been? I told them to take those posts down, but they failed. The posts are still everywhere! They make ridiculous sries but are useless. This is uneptable. I¡¯ll fire them all soon!¡±


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 Chapter 487

    ?Chapter 487:


    With a chuckle, Brenna got to her feet and walked over to him. ¡°Dad, don¡¯t stress yourself. Things spread fast online. There are thousands of posts. It¡¯s not so simple to clean all of them up.¡±


    Unconvinced, Shepard snorted and said, ¡°They are just too ipetent. It¡¯s a simple matter of blocking keywords, but they failed miserably. I will fire them soon. The Harper Group has no room for deadweight.¡±


    Just then, Ernst and Dalton descended from upstairs. Their expressions betrayed guilt as they nced at Shepard and Giselle.


    Shepard didn¡¯t need them to speak. He could tell they had failed at their tasks. ¡°What good are the two of you? You can¡¯t even deal with a minor issue. And you¡¯re supposed to be running the Harper Group? I honestly doubt either of you is up to the task.¡±


    Ernst¡¯s brow tightened, feeling guilty. ¡°Dad, I¡¯ve already given orders. My team is on it. The PR department is pushing back against the rumors and has contacted the right people to start removing the posts. But it¡¯s after work hours now. Everyone is glued to their phones, posting and sharing nonstop¡­¡±


    Shepard cut him off with a sharp wave. ¡°Enough! Exnations won¡¯t fix it. This mess proves you¡¯re not capable of handling even the smallest crisis.¡±


    Dalton looked just as overwhelmed. ¡°Dad, please don¡¯t get so worked up. We want to solve the problem too, but things like this spread like wildfire online. We¡¯re deleting the posts as fast as we can, but they¡¯re popping back up just as quickly. Someone¡¯s clearly behind this. Taking the posts down won¡¯t be enough. We need to find out who¡¯s behind this.¡±


    Shepard red at both of his sons, frustration etched deep across his face. ¡°Do you think I don¡¯t know that? Stop talking and fix it.¡±


    Brenna stepped in, hoping tofort Shepard, saying, ¡°Dad, everything will be okay. If we just let it be, things will quiet down on their own in a few days.¡±


    However, Dalton, used to being in the public eye, took matters like this seriously. ¡°Brenna, we can¡¯t do that. Letting it go is the same as saying it¡¯s true. If this keeps spreading, by the time you go to Shirie University on Monday, who knows how far it¡¯ll have¡­¡±


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    ¡°Gone? The faculty. The students. Everyone might believe it. Your reputation will be ruined beyond repair.¡±


    Giselle nodded solemnly, standing by Dalton¡¯s point. ¡°Exactly. I¡¯ve already posted a statement on the school forum to push back against the rumors. Frank got in touch with the forum admin, too. Those posts on the forum have been taken down. But on social media and personal ounts, the matter is still spreading fast. I can¡¯t stop any of that.¡±


    The room turned quiet as everyone took in the weight of the situation. A few momentster, Dalton spoke up again. ¡°Our PR team released a formal statement on the Harper Group¡¯s official page. It¡¯s pinned right at the top. But honestly, it hasn¡¯t helped much. The issue is still escting.¡±


    No one pointed fingers at Brenna. Everyone stayed focused on finding a way to solve this. That was when Brenna realized it¡ªthe Harper family cared about her deeply, unlike the Barrett family.


    ¡°I¡¯ll track down whoever¡¯s behind this. Don¡¯t worry.¡± Brenna reached into her backpack, pulled out herptop, and opened it. Her fingers moved quickly across the keys, line after line of code shing on the screen.


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 Chapter 488

    ?Chapter 488:


    Just then, Giselle¡¯s phone rang. It was a call from the university. A second-year grad student had been identified as the one who had first posted the thread and photos.


    At the same time, Brenna had traced the IP address of the original post. Without wasting a second, the family headed straight to the graduate dorms at Shirie University.


    When they arrived, a crowd had already gathered outside one of the rooms. Mixed in with the students were several men dressed in ck suits.


    The Harpers pushed their way to the front. They quickly saw Ethan there.


    Brenna blinked in surprise. Deep down, she felt happy. Ethan had heard about the whole situation, and he hadn¡¯t asked questions or doubted her. He had investigated the matter for her.


    Brenna looked at Ethan and asked, ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    Ethan turned his head, and his stern expression softened at once when he saw Brenna. ¡°If something hurts you, I¡¯ll deal with it. Someone is spreading lies about you, and of course, I looked into the matter.¡±


    Brenna nodded in acknowledgment, then turned her attention to the dorm room. There were only two beds inside. One of the girls had already been pulled aside for questioning.


    She looked terrified. Her face had gone pale, and her legs seemed ready to give out. The sight of so many men in ck suits had shaken her. She regretted helping Sylvie for ten thousand dors the second she realized what she¡¯d gotten into.


    Still, she stood her ground. ¡°Who do you think you are? You can¡¯t just barge into a girls¡¯ dorm like this.¡±


    Ethan stepped forward, held up his phone, and showed her the photos. ¡°Where did you get these? Tell the truth, or we¡¯re turning you over to the police.¡±


    The girl looked up and locked eyes with a face so striking it seemed carved by divine hands. Ethan¡¯s features could outshine any of the so-called heartthrobs at Shirie University, putting even the most celebrated handsome guys on campus to shame.


    She froze, caught off guard by how unreal he looked.


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    Ethan snapped at her in a cold tone, ¡°Speak!¡± His voice hit like a p. The girl flinched. When she met his gaze again, the icy rage in his eyes made her look away at once.


    Her eyes darted around the room, wide with panic. The men in suits formed a tight ring around her, their hard stares prickling her skin.


    ¡°It was Sylvie Higgins! We went to undergrad together. She gave me ten grand to post those photos on the forum!¡± the girl, Liz Ruiz, finally admitted.


    Then, her gazended on Brenna. She recognized her in an instant.


    She thought Brenna was a lot more beautiful in person than in the photos. Brenna said nothing. Her eyes, cold and unflinching, locked on Liz. That look alone made Liz¡¯s knees give out.


    Liz stumbled back a few steps, too shaken to speak. Surrounded by men in ck, she was convinced they meant to do her harm.


    ¡°Please don¡¯t hurt me! I¡¯ll give the money back! I¡¯ll delete everything!¡± she cried.


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 Chapter 489

    ?Chapter 489:


    Ethan stared at her, unblinking. After two seconds, he turned to leave. Just then, Neville stepped forward and spoke to Liz, his voice carrying the weight of authority. ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡±


    ¡°L-Liz Ruiz,¡± Liz stammered. ¡°I am so sorry! I¡¯ll delete the post right away!¡±


    Neville¡¯s gaze remained cold and cutting. ¡°Deleting it is not enough. You¡¯ll post a public apology. You¡¯ll make it clear the woman in those photos isn¡¯t Miss Harper but someone who looks a lot like Miss Harper from the back.¡±


    Liz nodded quickly. ¡°Y-Yes! Of course! I¡¯ll delete everything and post an apology! Just please, don¡¯t hurt me! My family¡­ We don¡¯t have much money. My parents gave up everything so I could study here. I only agreed to do things for Sylvie for money. She gave me ten thousand. I swear, I¡¯ll give the money back to her now!¡±


    Without further ado, she scrambled for her phone, her hands shaking so badly that she could barely keep a grip.


    Neville stepped back and watched as Liz pulled out her phone and did as he ordered.


    As Liz typed out the apology, Neville guided her word by word, making sure every sentence hit the mark.


    Brenna turned to leave and soon caught up with Ethan, who was already on the phone, instructing his men to locate Sylvie.


    Hearing hismands, Brenna felt warmth in her heart. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Ethan nced at her and caught her faint smile. ¡°You¡¯re the one being attacked, and yet you can still smile.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s expression didn¡¯t change. ¡°They¡¯re just words. They can¡¯t hurt me.¡±


    Ethan clenched his fist and looked down at her hand, resting just inches from his. After a brief pause, he reached out and gently hooked his finger around hers. ¡°I won¡¯t let anyone tarnish your name.¡±


    When Brenna didn¡¯t pull away, he gently took her whole hand in his. Her hand was so soft. So, this was what it was like to hold Brenna¡¯s hand.


    His heart beat faster, a quiet thrum of happiness building in his chest.


    Ethan stole a nce at Brenna. Her face remained as calm as ever.


    But she didn¡¯t seem to resist him holding her hand.


    The group following them kept a respectful distance, careful not to intrude. Still, some couldn¡¯t hide their amusement. Watching their usually cold boss turn timid over holding his girlfriend¡¯s hand was indeed amusing.


    As they stepped out of the university gates, Ethan¡¯s team reported in. They had found out where Sylvie was. She was supposedly meeting with reporters in a park to share some ¡°explosive news.¡±


    When Ethan, Brenna, and the others arrived, the ce was buzzing. Families wandered with strollers. Dogs tugged on their leashes. But there was no sign of Sylvie.


    ¡°Split up and find her,¡± Ethan ordered his people. He and Brenna also searched for Sylvie.


    It didn¡¯t take long. Soon, they found Sylvie.


    A few reporters stood close to Sylvie, exchanging contact information with her. The moment Sylvie spotted Ethan and Brenna, she turned sharply to run. But every path out was already sealed off by Ethan¡¯s men.


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    ?Chapter 490:


    Panic hit her like a wave. She looked at Brenna and Ethan and noticed the lethal intent in their eyes.


    Brenna walked over calmly. ¡°Miss Higgins, I see your family¡¯s problem hasn¡¯t kept you busy enough. You still have time to target me.¡±


    Sylvie¡¯s fingers flew over her phone, trying to erase something in a frenzy¡ªimages of Brenna, clearly edited, caught mid-motion in scenes meant to scandalize.


    Before she could delete all the photos, a hand reached out and snatched the phone from her grip.


    Brenna cast a fleeting nce at the phone screen, which disyed a grotesque image: her face had been crudely superimposed onto the body of a nude woman, entwined with a disgustingly obese, bald man.


    Ethan¡¯s face clouded over as he scrolled through more of these edited photos. A chilling aura enveloped him, and when his eyes met Sylvie¡¯s, they shed with a deadly warning.


    The audacity of Sylvie to ruin his girlfriend¡¯s reputation was too much.


    At Ethan¡¯s silentmand, his bodyguards sprang into action, aggressively grabbing Sylvie. One guard delivered a brutal kick behind her knees, forcing her to the ground.


    Sylvie hit the grass with a heavy thud, struggling against the guards furiously. In bold defiance, she red at Ethan and Brenna.


    So what was the worst they could do to her? Would they beat her or kill her?


    Ethan¡¯s response was chillingly calm, his voice a stark contrast to the dangerous glint in his eyes. ¡°Impressive audacity,¡± he remarked coldly. ¡°To target my woman so cruelly.¡±


    At that moment, Ernst and Dalton also arrived. Their faces contorted with anger as they viewed the offending photos. They then looked at Sylvie with dark expressions.


    Dalton moved swiftly towards her, his boot connecting sharply with her side. ¡°Is there no shame in you at all?¡± he eximed angrily.


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    Pinned down by the sturdy hands of two bodyguards, Sylvie trembled under the kick, feeling as though a fiery imprint of the boot was etched into her shoulder, sending shards of pain radiating through her frame.


    Yet, even from the ground, she managed to spit out her retort. ¡°It¡¯s merely a few photos, Dalton. They aren¡¯t even posted. What has got you so enraged? Are you intent on kicking me to death? Beware, that could send you straight to prison!¡±


    With ruthless aggression, Daltonnded another fierce kick on Sylvie. ¡°Ah!¡± The sound of something snapping was unmistakable, and a wave of unbearable pain washed over Sylvie, suggesting a possible fracture in her arm.


    Sylvie was shocked by Dalton¡¯s brutality. Despite his fame and the adoration he received as a celebrity, he disyed a disturbing ruthlessness. She was seething with anger; to her, the idea of a man hitting a woman was uneptable.


    Yet Dalton had hit her with brutal force.


    ¡°How could you hit me like that?¡± Sylvie screamed, her voiceced with fury.


    Dalton¡¯s response was ruthless. He pped Sylvie several times, each one delivered with such force that Sylvie¡¯s face quickly turned a deep shade of red, her lip splitting and oozing blood.


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 Chapter 491

    ?Chapter 491:


    Through her tears, Sylvie¡¯s defiance shone. ¡°I just edited some photos! Is this really necessary?¡±


    Dalton¡¯sugh was scornful and full of contempt. ¡°You think the Harper family will let someone like you defame them without consequence? It appears the Higgins family has been having it too easytely.¡±


    Sylvie¡¯s false bravado melted away into desperation. ¡°What do you want from me?¡± she asked, her voice quivering. ¡°My family has suffered massive losses already! We¡¯re so financially strapped that banks refuse to lend us a dime¡­¡±


    Just then, her eyes went wide as she suddenly realized something. She turned to Dalton. ¡°That is the Harper family¡¯s doing, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    With the ferocity of a beast backed into a corner, she snapped, ¡°When did my family ever cross the Harper family? Why are you treating us like this? Rosie and I, we¡¯re still friends. How could you act with such ruthlessness against my family?¡±


    Her frenzied eyes darted across Brenna¡¯s defenders. As realization dawned on her that each of these men held Brenna in high regard, a venomous jealousy twisted in her chest. ¡°Are you seriously creating all this drama over a few photos of Brenna? She is nothing! Why are you making a fuss over this?¡±


    Brenna raised an eyebrow and approached her calmly. ¡°Really? I am nothing? Then exin why you¡¯re so intent on targeting me.¡±


    Her voice lowered, simmering with controlled anger. ¡°When I came back, you, along with Vivian and Rosie, schemed to humiliate me at that restaurant. What did I ever do to you to warrant such hostility?¡±


    Brenna cast a cold, contemptuous nce at Sylvie¡¯s bruised and swollen face. ¡°Exin yourself. I did nothing to hurt you, yet you kept helping Rosie tear me down.¡±


    Sylvie, ever defiant, scoffed. ¡°Dredging up the past now? Sure, I made a few harsh remarks about you at that time, but your response was to degrade me into kneeling. Don¡¯t you think that was a bit much?¡±


    Brenna raised an eyebrow. ¡°A few harsh remarks?¡± she echoed with a hint of irony. ¡°Have you really forgotten what you said? I had just left the Barrett family at that time. I didn¡¯t have any money, and there you were, ordering the priciest items on¡­¡±


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    ¡°The menu just to humiliate me. You plotted against me maliciously, and now, youin about the fact that I struck back?¡±


    Sylvie¡¯s voice rose with each word, her frustration palpable. ¡°I settled that bill in the end, didn¡¯t I? Why are you still holding onto this? I¡¯ve already apologized to you, yet here you are, tearing down my family¡¯s business over some petty squabble! My family is innocent in this!¡±


    Her voice cracked as she yelled, ¡°What right do you have to destroy my family?¡±


    Ethan, seeing that Sylvie felt no remorse about her actions, gave a slight nod to the bodyguards. They swiftly pinned Sylvie to the ground and began to beat her. Bruises bloomed across Sylvie¡¯s skin.


    After a while, she cried out for mercy amid the blows, pleading, ¡°Please, stop! I admit it¡¯s my fault. I¡¯m truly sorry.¡±


    Brenna watched the scene with a detached expression. ¡°I¡¯m not involved in the matter. The Higgins family isn¡¯t worth my time.¡±


    Sylvie still felt the sting of injustice. Though Brenna insisted the Higgins family wasn¡¯t worth her time, their billions in losses told a different story.


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 Chapter 492

    ?Chapter 492:


    She said to Brenna, ¡°I only wanted to embarrass you, but you are destroying my entire family. Don¡¯t you think that¡¯s going too far? This was just a petty spat ¡ª between us, but you have escted it into full-blown corporate warfare!¡±


    Ernst stood off to the side, his gaze grim. Sylvie, who had oncee to their home as Rosie¡¯s friend, was now showing her true colors. She was bent on scheming against Brenna without an ounce of remorse.


    The urge to help Sylvie vanished instantly as he slowly shook his head. Ethan¡¯s voice turned cold. ¡°You are from the Higgins family. You carry the weight of your family¡¯s name. Their downfall is a direct result of your actions.¡±


    Sylvie¡¯s eyes red with an unmistakable sense of betrayal. ¡°So now you are ming me for everything? You don¡¯t have the right to say something like that to me! You treated Rosie well before, but the moment Brenna showed up, you turned your back on her! Rosie has always seen you as her future husband! What you did was disappointing!¡±


    She shot to her feet, a fierce finger pointing directly at Brenna. ¡°What makes her so special? How is Rosie beneath her? She stole you from Rosie, and to do it, she framed Rosie! And now you are letting this snake slither into your life? One day, she will sink her venomous fangs into you, and you will regret it! Rosie loved you deeply for years! She is the one who truly deserves your love!¡±


    ¡°Enough. That is none of your business,¡± Ethan said in a stern tone. ¡°Rosie was always like a sister to me. You are the one who twisted it into something it wasn¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Liar!¡± Sylvie hissed, eyes aze. ¡°You are just another unfaithful man chasing after the next shiny thing! Don¡¯t pretend otherwise!¡±


    Her lips curled into a venomous smirk. ¡°Those hotel photos are all over the inte now. Do you enjoy being cheated on, Ethan? You don¡¯t even care about that? I can¡¯t believe you are so foolish.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s hand suddenly cracked across Sylvie¡¯s cheek, the brutal force of the p so sharp that one of her mrs flew out.


    ¡°You know damn well that woman in the photos wasn¡¯t Brenna,¡± Ethan said, his voice dangerously calm. ¡°Say something like that again, and today will be yourst day on earth.¡±


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    The bodyguards didn¡¯t need a single order. Their fists and boots crashed down on Sylvie¡¯s crumpled form with chilling precision.


    Nearby reporters winced at every sickening blow. Whatever exclusive scandal Sylvie had promised them earlier suddenly wasn¡¯t worth the price. They backed away, silenced by the cold professionalism of elite punishment, not daring to utter a word.


    Even if Sylvie were beaten to death today, they would pretend that they had seen nothing. If this was how the powerful dealt with a woman, what fate awaited men who dared to cross them?


    The thought sent chills down the reporters¡¯ spines, making them wish they had nevere and witnessed this. The bodyguards¡¯ watchful presence had turned the exit into a wall; they were unable to leave.


    Only when Sylvie stopped moving did the beatinge to an end, leaving her bruised body sprawled across the cold floor. Her lips moved without sound, eyes dulling, zing over like frost-covered ss.


    Brenna strolled over and nudged her with the tip of her shoe. Sylvie managed to crack her eyes open butcked the strength to dodge.


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 Chapter 493

    ?Chapter 493:


    ¡°Defamation carries prison time,¡± Brenna said, looking at Sylvie. ¡°Since you¡¯re so eager for it, I will let you go to prison.¡±


    Sylvie¡¯s bloodied fingers wed at the space between them, failing to reach the hem of Brenna¡¯s dress. ¡°Please don¡¯t¡­¡± The words bubbled out through bloodied lips. ¡°I¡¯ll¡­ I¡¯ll do anything you want¡­ Just don¡¯t call the police. My life will be over if I go to jail.¡±


    But Brenna didn¡¯t spare her a nce. Her gaze stayed locked on her phone screen. Surprisingly, Rosie¡¯s name was nowhere to be found in Sylvie¡¯s damning messages. It seemed Rosie was uncharacteristically cautious this time.


    ¡°I gave you many chances to redeem yourself,¡± Brenna said coldly, her voice sharp. ¡°But you threw them all away and schemed against me time and time again. Did you honestly think I wouldn¡¯t find out about your schemes with Rosie? That little stunt with sending her to Jay¡­ Tell me, Sylvie, how many years do you think the courts will hand you when they tally up all your crimes?¡±


    Ethan¡¯s fingers moved swiftly over his phone screen, dialing the police with calm precision.


    Neville motioned for the reporters to step closer, herding them like sheep into a quieter corner.


    ¡°Well?¡± he asked sharply. ¡°What did you just see?¡±


    The reporters shook their heads repeatedly. The one in sses gulped audibly before speaking. ¡°Nothing at all, sir. Sylvie reached out to us¡­¡±


    He paused, eyes flicking nervously to Neville¡¯s expressionless face, searching for a signal. When none came, he continued, ¡°She offered us money and showed uspromising photos of Miss Harper in bed. She wanted us to publish them to ruin her reputation. But we are professional journalists: we would never be part of something so hical. We n to expose Sylvie¡¯s edited photo scheme. We¡¯ll testify and give full statements to the police about her attempts at fabrication.¡±


    Neville¡¯s lips curled with approval as the reporters began tripping over themselves to offer more dramatic testimonies. He chimed in now and then, subtly steering their story with precision.


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    By the time the police cars pulled up, the officers didn¡¯t say a word as they took Sylvie¡¯s battered body away. Her shallow breaths were the only sign that life still flickered inside her.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Brenna said softly, looking at Ethan with a warm smile. ¡°I couldn¡¯t have done it without you today.¡±


    Shirie University had mapped out Brenna¡¯s teaching schedule for Tuesday afternoons¡ªfour consecutive weekly sessions stretching over two months. On that particr Tuesday, Brenna finished her lunch early and arrived at her temporary campus office by one in the afternoon. The university had assigned her a spot in the Mechanical Engineering Department¡¯s graduate faculty area.


    The office was mostly deserted since professors were often tied up with graduate supervision. Only Brenna, the academic advisor, and a handful of lecturers typically frequented the space. For the lecture this time, Brenna had brought along Tommy, who was busy arranging automotive models at a table.


    As Brenna prepared her teaching materials, an unexpected knock broke the tranquil atmosphere in the office.


    Tommy opened the door to find several sharply dressed male students waiting outside. They looked to be in their mid-twenties, likely graduate students from Shirie University.


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 Chapter 494

    ?Chapter 494:


    The young men stood nervously, hands hidden behind their backs. When they saw Tommy instead of Brenna, they peered past him into the office. ¡°Excuse me, is Professor Harper avable?¡± one asked, his voice tinged with anticipation.


    Tommy nced back at Brenna, who remained focused on her work, not bothering to look up.


    Understanding Brenna didn¡¯t wish to be disturbed, Tommy politely replied, ¡°Professor Harper is preparing for ss. She doesn¡¯t have time to see you all right now.¡±


    The students wore expressions of disappointment but maintained their respect. One of them stepped forward, revealing the bouquet he had been concealing behind his body. ¡°Would you mind passing this to Professor Harper?¡± The other three students followed suit, presenting their own floral arrangements and cing them in Tommy¡¯s arms. ¡°Please deliver these to her as well.¡±


    The first student added, ¡°You must be Professor Harper¡¯s assistant! It¡¯s a pleasure to meet you.¡±


    Tommy nodded politely. ¡°I¡¯m Professor Harper¡¯s assistant and the head of her mechanical design studio. Are you all graduate students in the Mechanical Engineering Department? If you¡¯re interested in joining our team, feel free to reach out to me.¡±


    The students¡¯ faces lit up with unbridled enthusiasm. ¡°Yes, we¡¯re mechanical engineering grad students,¡± a third-year student responded eagerly. ¡°I¡¯ll be graduating next year! I¡¯ll prepare my resume right away!¡±


    He exchanged looks with hispanions, their excitement palpable. After the students had left, Tommy shut the door and ced the floral bouquets beside Brenna¡¯s workspace.


    ¡°From your admirers,¡± he said, returning to his model cars with a teasing smirk. ¡°Your poprity never fades. Should you worry about Mr. Mitchell getting a little jealous?¡±


    Brenna shot him a frosty nce. ¡°He¡¯s got an entire office full of beautiful female secretaries. I didn¡¯t even say anything about that.¡±


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    Though the sight of those secretaries hadn¡¯t initially bothered her, the memory of it now stirred an unfamiliar difort within her.


    Tommy¡¯s eyebrows shot up in surprise¡ªthis was the first time he had seen Brenna getting upset over something like that.


    A quiet chuckle escaped him. Was the usually cold and reserved Brenna finally developing feelings for someone?


    Their conversation was soon interrupted by another series of knocks.


    ¡°Is Professor Harper avable?¡± called out a male voice.


    Tommy opened the door to find arger group this time¡ªabout eight students, clutching flowers and gift boxes. Their eager faces leaned in, hoping for a glimpse of Brenna.


    A particrly striking girl stood on her toes, catching sight of Brenna¡¯s profile with palpable excitement. ¡°Does Professor Harper have a moment?¡± she asked. The entire group¡¯s eyes lit up with anticipation as they peeked inside the office. Tommy kept his professionalposure. ¡°Professor Harper is busy at the moment.¡±


    The lead girl¡¯s expression dimmed slightly at the rejection. ¡°I¡¯m a second-year graduate student in the Mechanical Engineering Department, and I¡¯m a big fan of Professor Harper. I¡¯ve seen clips of her lectures at the Harper Group, and they were amazing. Is there any chance I could meet her? Please?¡±


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 Chapter 495

    ?Chapter 495:


    Tommy was at a loss for words. First, it had been a group of boys, and now, even the girls were here. Brenna¡¯s charm was indeed remarkable.


    Tommy said, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, everyone, but Professor Harper needs to prepare for ss now. If you have anything you¡¯d like to share with her, please wait until after ss, or you can write a note now. I¡¯ll make sure she gets it.¡±


    The young men and women exchanged nces. Though a bit disappointed, they didn¡¯t press the issue. Instead, they politely handed their gifts to Tommy to pass along to Brenna, with one even offering a resume.


    Tommy thought this was the end of it, but within just ten minutes, several more groups showed up. Before long, the office table was overflowing with a stunning array of gifts and flowers.


    When it was time for ss, Brenna entered the ssroom and noticed the lectern was covered with gifts. The students below were enthusiastic, seemingly unfazed by the posts in the school forum from before. Even Brenna couldn¡¯t quite grasp why.


    Tommy, who was quite the looker himself, followed Brenna into the ssroom, holding the car models, which sparked a chorus of excited gasps.


    The lecture hall, meant for three hundred students, was bursting at the seams. Makeshift stools cluttered the aisles, and clusters of listeners jammed every doorway. Anticipation was written on every face.


    Brenna¡¯s usual icy calm gave way to an unusual half-smile. Despite the inmmatory forum threads that had spread like wildfire, the students¡¯ genuine hunger for knowledge burned hotter than campus gossip.


    Brenna¡¯s lips curled in fleeting amusement before she began the lecture, her voice calm.


    At half past five in the afternoon, a wave of students surged toward Brenna after the lecture, arms full of flowers, choctes, embossed resumes, and love letters. Brenna had to put in real effort just to free herself from the eager crowd.


    At the parking lot, she found her car nearly swallowed by gifts and letters. Tommy stood by the overloaded vehicle, looking defeated. When the trunk refused to shut no matter how he wrestled with it, he called for a cargo van. Back at the Harper family¡¯s residence, Tommy gestured toward the mountain of presents. ¡°What are you going to do with these?¡± he asked Brenna.


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    ¡°I¡¯m not sure,¡± Brenna said, looking at the gifts. ¡°They reflect the students¡¯ sincerity. Check and store the gifts. Arrange and disy the flowers in the house. Throw away the love letters. And I¡¯ll give you the resumes soon.¡± Staff appeared immediately. Tommy coordinated the sorting, guiding the servants through the process.


    When Julia handed Brenna the thick stack of love letters, Brenna lookedpletely exasperated. She truly couldn¡¯t tell whether these grad students hade for her lectures or for something else.


    ¡°Shred them,¡± she said tly.


    Julia grinned. ¡°You¡¯re not even curious? Don¡¯t you want to read them before that?¡±


    Saturday came quickly¡ªrace day.


    Brenna joined Ethan at Shirie International Circuit, a top-tier racingplex sprawling across the city¡¯s southwestern edge. It featured several specialized tracks and state-of-the-art equipment that met the highest global standards.


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 Chapter 496

    ?Chapter 496:


    The rare weekend race had drawn crowds of motorsport fans. Some people even carried binocrs, scanning the massive venue for the best views.


    As soon as Ethan¡¯s leather shoes touched the asphalt, his phone rang. He wedged it between his ear and shoulder while pulling Brenna¡¯s racing suit from the trunk.


    His grip tightened on the phone. ¡°Fix this before Monday, or you can pack up your things and leave,¡± he said, his voice cold.


    Once he hung up, Brenna asked, ¡°Something wrong?¡±


    ¡°Just a small issue at one of the branches. Nothing serious,¡± Ethan replied.


    Brenna didn¡¯t give it much thought, but Ethan¡¯s instincts red. The Ward family held sway in the region of that branch. For a problem to suddenly erupt there, today of all days, was too much of a coincidence.


    At the prep hall entrance, Ethan handed Brenna a document bag. ¡°I need to take care of it. Wait here.¡±


    Brenna nodded and stepped inside alone.


    Heads turned the moment she walked in. She immediately spotted Jade in the center of a small crowd, Isabe hovering nearby with a ttering smile. Jade smiled faintly at her circle. ¡°Can¡¯t tell if she¡¯s brave or foolish. She actually came. Miss Barrett, if you pull this off, you will get what you want.¡±


    Then she grabbed her handbag and left the group with a light tone. ¡°I need to go talk strategy with my co-driver.¡±


    The others smiled politely as Jade walked away.


    Brenna recognized the faces¡ªIsabe, of course, but also Rosie, now walking again, her friend Vivian, and a few other socialites she only vaguely remembered.


    Rosie led the group toward Brenna, with the rest tagging along like satellites. Brenna didn¡¯t move.


    ¡°You¡¯re actually racing?¡± Rosie asked, clearly surprised. Brenna¡¯s equestrian sess had already changed her perspective, but she hadn¡¯t expected Brenna to know how to race.


    ?????????? ???????????????? ???? g??????ov?????.???? m


    Brenna settled into the leather chair, her expression cold. From her handbag, she retrieved a tablet, its glow casting sharp light across her features as she scanned Thiago¡¯s track analytics and race strategy.


    Rosie slipped into the seat beside her, uninvited. ¡°When did you pick up this particr skill?¡± she asked, her curiosity evident.


    She gave Brenna a once-over¡ªslim frame, smooth hands, not a trace of wear or callus. Brenna didn¡¯t have the hands of a seasoned racer.


    The thought of Brenna crashing sparked a flicker of thrill Rosie barely managed to hide.


    ¡°Racing isn¡¯t like horseback riding,¡± Rosie said with sudden gravity. ¡°One wrong move, and the car won¡¯t just stop¡ªit¡¯ll tear itself apart, maybe take you with it.¡±


    Isabe also spoke to Brenna, her voice sharp. ¡°You always need the spotlight. Aren¡¯t you afraid of flipping the car?¡±


    Brenna looked up. ¡°Yet, you are also here.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just here to watch the race,¡± Isabe said. ¡°Having a license doesn¡¯t make you a racer. Those tracks out there¡ªgravel, mud, uneven terrain¡ªthey¡¯ll eat amateurs alive. With your basic skills, you won¡¯tst ap.¡±


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 Chapter 497

    ?Chapter 497:


    Vivian¡¯s hostility toward Brenna had deepened sharply, especially after Sylvie¡¯s recent arrest and imprisonment. The legal team had told her that Sylvie faced a mandatory minimum sentence of five years.


    The Higgins family had pulled every string they could, hiring topwyers and leveraging theirwork, but bail had been denied. For a powerful family like the Higgins to fail sopletely pointed to outside interference. Vivian was convinced the Harper and Mitchell families were behind the matter.


    Without them, Sylvie would have been facing a defamation suit at most, not a prison sentence. But now, she couldn¡¯t even get bailed.


    Vivian¡¯s eyes red with hatred as she spat, ¡°You actually think showing up in a million-dor supercar makes you fit to race?¡±


    Brenna didn¡¯t bother responding. Lowering herself to Vivian¡¯s level would be degrading for her. Her focus stayed on the tablet, calmly reviewing Thiago¡¯s strategy notes.


    Vivian¡¯s fury simmered at her indifferent demeanor. ¡°That car and your billionaire boyfriend won¡¯t carry you through the race,¡± she snapped. ¡°You¡¯ve got no real skill. You¡¯re signing your own death warrant.¡±


    Rosie gave a slight nod, clearly agreeing. ¡°This isn¡¯t a joyride, Brenna,¡± she said, feigning concern. ¡°If something happened to you, Ethan would be crushed.¡± There was a calcted softness in her tone, but the grin tugging at her lips gave her true emotions away.


    Brenna finally turned to face her. ¡°How touching. Since when do you care?¡±


    Rosie¡¯s expression turned serious. ¡°We¡¯re family. I am concerned about you. Professional racing demands a well-prepared team¡ªnavigators meticulously analyzing the courses, strategists mapping out every move, and mechanics on standby for any emergencies. Surely you understand these basic requirements? Yet here you are, alone.¡±


    The surrounding young women burst into mockingughter.


    Your next tale lives on g ? ln¦Ò ¦Í?? ?s,


    Vivian, for her part, had no interest in Brenna and Rosie¡¯s family drama. Her thoughts were consumed by her jailed best friend. ¡°Why bother warning her?¡± she muttered.


    ¡°With that ego and attitude, she¡¯s better off gone. If the track takes her out, that will save us all the trouble,¡± Vivian said bitterly.


    She scoffed. ¡°All Sylvie did was say a few words, and she ended up behind bars. You are really petty for doing that to her.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s eyes lifted, her tone razor-sharp. ¡°You¡¯re right¡ªI am pathetically petty. I don¡¯t let things slide. Anyone who crosses me will pay.¡±


    The look she gave Vivian was cold enough to freeze blood. Instinctively, Vivian stepped back.


    But when Vivian realized she had flinched, anger surged again. She lunged forward, hand raised to strike Brenna.


    Brenna lifted her foot with casual ease and drove it into Vivian¡¯s stomach.


    Vivian hadn¡¯t seen iting. She was kicked to the floor in an instant.


    ¡°You¡¯ve got some nerve!¡± Vivian snapped, face flushed.


    Brenna cocked a brow, the corner of her mouth curling up. ¡°Do you want to have a fight with me? Be my guest.¡±


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    Rosie jumped in before things got worse, helping Vivian to her feet. ¡°Don¡¯t be an idiot. She¡¯s ttened whole gangs without breaking a sweat. Just leave now.¡± Vivian, well aware of Brenna¡¯s fearsome reputation, bit back her pride and backed down reluctantly, leaving.


    Isabe, however, wasn¡¯t done poking the bear. She didn¡¯t dare cross the invisible line into outright aggression, but her words were knives wrapped in silk. ¡°So quick to throw punches, aren¡¯t you? Always the first to lose your cool. It¡¯s fortunate the Barretts kicked you out. Otherwise, they might face a lot of trouble because of you.¡±


    The promise of Jade¡¯s generous rewards still echoed sweetly in Isabe¡¯s mind; a lucrative business deal dangled before her, if only she could rattle Brenna¡¯s cage enough to throw her off her game before the race.


    She continued, ¡°With that temper of yours, it¡¯s no wonder you¡¯re friendless. Is this the renowned civility of a member of the Harper family?¡±


    Noticing Brenna¡¯s intense focus on the tablet, Isabe slipped into the seat Rosie had just vacated. A quick nce revealed a wealth of racecourse analytics.


    She snatched the device from Brenna¡¯s grasp. ¡°I am talking to you. Are you even listening to me?¡±


    She believed disrupting Brenna¡¯s meticulous preparations could lead to disastrous mistakes on the track, a service Jade would undoubtedly appreciate. Brenna¡¯s icy re met Isabe¡¯s as she reached for her tablet.


    Isabe quickly switched the tablet to her other hand, not letting Brenna get it. Brenna¡¯s fingers mped around Isabe¡¯s wrist like a steel trap.


    Pain shot through Isabe, and tears welled up in her eyes from the vise-like grip, yet she stubbornly held onto the tablet.


    ¡°Give it back to me!¡± Brenna said coldly.


    Isabe was convinced that the searing pain broke her wrist.


    With a whimper, she returned the tablet to Brenna. ¡°You monster! You¡¯ve broken my bones!¡±


    I@?e$t ¡é§ß@???§ñ$ ?¦Ç ???§Ú?v¦Å??.c?m


    She cradled her wrist, tears sparkling on her cheeks as she felt she couldn¡¯t lift her hand.


    Isabe had caught a glimpse of the tablet¡¯s contents¡ªdetailed racecourse analytics that showcased Brenna¡¯s deep grasp of rally mechanics. So, Brenna knew a lot about racing; she had just kept quiet about it.


    Doubt gnawed at Isabe¡¯s insides. Was Brenna merely Ethan¡¯s pamperedpanion or a legitimate contender?


    She believed Brenna was the former. Brenna was already exceptional in a lot of areas; she couldn¡¯t possibly also know how to race. It just seemed impossible. Racing required specialized skills, not something anyone could simply pick up.


    ¡°Keep up the act,¡± Isabe sneered at Brenna. ¡°We¡¯ll see how you handle it when you lose control of your car.¡±


    She believed Brenna was just putting on an act. ¡°I don¡¯t believe you know how to race.¡±


    Seeing the participant list on the disy board, Isabe said, ¡°Your name is missing.¡± She grinned. ¡°You didn¡¯t even sign up for the race. Why are you still putting on an act?¡±


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    ?Chapter 499:


    Brenna¡¯s eyes darted to her registered alias, ¡°Night,¡± on the screen. ¡°Could you please stay away from me?¡± she said to Isabe, tired of the incessant taunts.


    Isabe¡¯sughter echoed, drawing Vivian and Rosie back. They all sat near Brenna. Rosie had grown more astute. Unlike Isabe, she didn¡¯t mock Brenna carelessly. Instead, she talked to her like a close friend, subtly probing for information.


    Rosie said, ¡°What Isabe said was harsh, but she¡¯s not wrong. Do you really know how to race, Brenna? Racing is a world apart from regr driving. A race car is much more agile and tougher to control than a family car. You shouldn¡¯t risk it just for¡ª¡±


    Though she said that, she secretly hoped Brenna would insist on racing out of pride and get into a car crash.


    With a sinister glint in her eyes, she stared at Brenna, but Brenna¡¯s expression remained cold. Rosie shook Brenna¡¯s arm. ¡°Are you even listening to me?¡±


    Brenna recognized Rosie¡¯s ploy. Without looking at her, she replied, ¡°I¡¯ve raced before, so you don¡¯t need to worry. There¡¯s no one out there who can beat me.¡±


    Isabe couldn¡¯t help but snicker, and even Vivian scoffed derisively.


    Vivian leaned in, a smirk on her face. ¡°Interesting. You can boast all you want, but I just saw Mr. Mitchell talking with another woman.¡±


    Brenna nced up. ¡°Another woman? Who?¡±


    Vivian¡¯s smirk widened. ¡°So you¡¯re pretending to be indifferent about Mr. Mitchell, but you care more about him than you let on. The Harpers are powerful, butpared to the Hewitts, your family¡¯s influence pales. Miss Hewitt is the better match for Mr. Mitchell. She¡¯s the one who truly deserves to stand beside him.¡±


    Arrogance dripped from every word Vivian spoke, her expression tinged with mockery.


    Brenna processed this revtion. ¡°Ethan is with Jade now?¡±


    ?????????????? ??????????????: g??????¦Í????????????


    Vivian raised an eyebrow. ¡°Obviously. What do you expect? Do you really think you¡¯re irreceable to Mr. Mitchell? Jade outshines you in every aspect¡ªheritage, achievements, everything.¡±


    She then thrust her phone forward, showing Brenna a photo of Ethan and Jade standing together near the floor-to-ceiling windows. But they maintained a respectful distance in the public setting.


    Brenna looked away from the phone, unbothered. Even as his girlfriend, she couldn¡¯t dictate whom Ethan spoke to.


    Vivian frowned at her calm demeanor. ¡°Your man might just walk away from you. Doesn¡¯t that concern you?¡±


    ¡°They were just having a conversation. Hardly worth worrying about.¡± Brenna returned her focus to the tablet, refusing to take the bait.


    Vivian said, ¡°Mr. Mitchell smiled at her! Didn¡¯t you notice? He smiled at Miss Hewitt. That could be a sign of affection. You¡¯re about to be tossed aside!¡±


    Isabe couldn¡¯t fathom why Brenna remainedposed despite Vivian¡¯s jabs. Then, a sudden realization struck her. Brenna¡¯s indifference could only mean one thing¡ªshe didn¡¯t genuinely love Ethan; she was just with him for his money.


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    That had to be it. This revtion demanded action. Isabe believed she needed to expose Brenna¡¯s gold-digging intentions to Ethan, ensuring he saw her true colors.


    As Isabe stood to leave, Brenna unexpectedly pulled out her phone. A few tapster, she held up a photograph for Isabe to see. A rare, subtle smile curved her lips. ¡°Take a look at this.¡±


    Isabe recognized the image immediately¡ªDenis intimately embracing a famous actress in a shadowy parking garage.


    Brenna said, ¡°Denis has gifted you properties and cars and even helped your brother find a job. I thought wedding bells were in your future. But this has changed everything. Between you and this famous actress, who¡¯s really closer to bing Denis¡¯ wife?¡±


    Isabe¡¯s face went pale. Jobless and frantic to cling to her privileged lifestyle, she spat through clenched teeth, ¡°You¡¯re mistaken! That¡¯s not Denis in the photo!¡±


    Rosie scanned the participant list once more, her heart sinking as she confirmed that Brenna¡¯s name was nowhere to be found. Then, like a beacon in the fog, another familiar name caught her eye¡ªNight.


    She squinted at the alias, then shot a nce at Brenna. ¡°You signed up as Night?¡±


    Brenna kept her focus glued to her tablet. ¡°Is there an issue with that?¡±


    Rosie¡¯s face turned grim. Every racer knew about Night, the legendary racer. Rosie believed Jade probably didn¡¯t know that Brenna was Night.


    ¡°How¡­ How are you this ridiculously talented?¡± Rosie looked at Brenna. ¡°You are exceptional in so many fields. Are you even human?¡±


    The very thought of someone excelling in so many fields left her feeling dizzy. Without wasting another moment, Rosie rushed to find Jade. This newfound knowledge of Brenna could turn the tide of the race.


    Isabe vaguely recalled the alias from Brenna¡¯s equestrian triumph, but she was no expert on the glittering world of racing and had no clue what the name ¡°Night¡± signified to racers.


    She nced at Rosie, confusion knitting her brow, wondering why Rosie seemed so on edge.


    ?????????? ???????? ???????????????? ???? g???????¦Í?????????????


    She continued to taunt Brenna, ¡°Real racers have custom-built race cars. Do you even have one? Surely you¡¯re not using the expensive car you always drive, right? That¡¯s augh. Price tags don¡¯t win races. You should be worried that your car might get you killed in the race.¡±


    Despite her bravado, Isabe was already surreptitiously scrolling through her phone, searching for news about Denis dating the starlet.


    Vivian¡¯s demeanor shifted like the wind when she found out that Brenna was Night. Her earlier mockery evaporated, reced by the hope that a worthypetitor would rise to challenge Brenna.


    Rosie found Jade deep in a heated exchange with Ethan at the track management office. Ethan¡¯s expression was stormy, his re sharp enough to cut ss as he spat out a single word, ¡°Nope.¡±


    He tossed a set of keys to Neville. ¡°Give the keys to Brenna.¡± Neville took the keys and made his exit.


    ¡°I won¡¯t lend you my car,¡± Ethan said to Jade coldly. ¡°Find another solution.¡±


    Jade¡¯s dazzling smile didn¡¯t falter. ¡°After all I did for you in Norview, this is how you repay me? My car is broken. Just do me a favor and lend me your car.¡± She raised an eyebrow. ¡°Brenna¡¯s just an amateur chasing attention and fun. I¡¯m different. If you let me win, I¡¯ll handle a dozen projects for you. How about it? Sounds like a generous deal, right?¡±


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 Chapter 501

    ?Chapter 501:


    Rosie lingered at the door, not daring to step inside, worried that Ethan would discover her covert alliance with Jade. She pulled out her phone and shot a message to Jade.


    ¡°Brenna IS the racing legend ¡®Night.¡¯ She is a professional.¡±


    Jade¡¯s expression shifted instantly when she read the message, her eyes wide with disbelief. ¡°No! This can¡¯t be true!¡± she muttered under her breath. If this was true, Brenna wouldn¡¯t need Ethan¡¯s car; she would race with her own legendary vehicle and her elite team, the verybination that had bested Jade before.


    ¡°Forget it, then,¡± Jade said to Ethan, not wanting to waste more time on the matter. She walked away, each second slipping through her fingers like sand as she recalibrated her strategies.


    Meanwhile, having meticulously reviewed Thiago¡¯s materials, Brenna nced at the clock. With calm precision, she gathered her gear and headed toward the changing rooms.


    ¡°Miss Harper!¡±


    Neville approached her, keys in hand. ¡°Mr. Mitchell¡¯s car boasts exceptional specs. You should really consider taking it. I can show you to the garage.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s frosty gaze cut through his enthusiasm. ¡°No thanks. I have my own car for the race.¡±


    Neville hesitated, concern etching his features. ¡°The safety features of Mr. Mitchell¡¯s car are second to none. He said that no matter the results, safety is the most important. He is tied up with othermitments and can¡¯t race today.¡±


    Brenna adjusted her gloves, her resolve firm. ¡°I appreciate the offer, but I¡¯m familiar with my own car. Switching now would throw off my rhythm.¡±


    Neville pressed on, still worried. ¡°Miss Harper, you really don¡¯t have to race. Wouldn¡¯t it be wiser for you to watch from the sidelines with Mr. Mitchell?¡±


    Silence was her only response as Brenna slipped into the changing area, leaving Neville no choice but to report back to Ethan.


    ???????? ?????????????? ???? ??????????????????.??????


    After changing her clothes, Brenna spotted Jade inspecting a matte-ck racer. The car¡¯s aggressive lines shimmered ominously in the light.


    ¡°Back with my old rival,¡± Brennamented, stopping beside the vehicle.


    Jade turned to look at Brenna sharply. The distinctive design of Brenna¡¯s racing suit sparked immediate recognition in Jade; Brenna was the mysteriouspetitor who had defeated her before.


    ¡°We meet again. I won¡¯t show you mercy this time,¡± Jade dered, determination radiating from her.


    Brenna¡¯s eyes flicked to Jade¡¯s car, a sleek beauty that outshone even thest one Jade had raced. She couldn¡¯t help but wonder about its capabilities. ¡°You can¡¯t use your old car anymore?¡± she asked, recalling how Jade had nearly wrecked in a desperate attempt to beat her at Faronslst time.


    Brenna was a stranger to Jade¡¯s true nature, yet she knew her ruthless racing tactics all too well. Theirst showdown hadid bare Jade¡¯s readiness to use any underhanded trick to clinch victory, even resorting to illegal vehicle modifications.


    Brenna circled the matte-ck racer, her fingertips trailing along its chassis. One practiced touch revealed the car¡¯s enhancements to her.


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 Chapter 502

    ?Chapter 502:


    As she leaned in for a closer look, Jade blocked her path with a firm stance. ¡°Why are you staring at my car?¡±


    Jade understood that Brenna¡¯s mechanical prowess could decode any unauthorized tweaks easily.


    ¡°Catch you on the track,¡± Brenna said, pivoting toward her own vehicle.


    Jade watched Brenna go to the area where the crimson-ented racer was parked, its custom alloy wheels and aerodynamic curves captivating every photographer¡¯s lens.


    ¡°Style over substance,¡± Jade muttered begrudgingly, slipping into her car. Memories of theirstpetition flooded her mind¡ªhow she had pushed her machine to the brink, sacrificing it in a desperate bid to catch Brenna¡¯s taillights. In the end, her cary in ruins, nearly totaled, and she had still failed to defeat Brenna.


    That defeat had always festered like a thorn in Jade¡¯s side.


    Each subsequent race had found her scanning entry lists for that alias ¡°Night.¡± Years had passed since shest saw it, and she had doubted Night would ever show up again. But today, her worst nightmare returned.


    Doubt gnawed at her. Then, she caught sight of her cockpit¡¯s illegal modifications. It struck her that victory might demand some dirty tactics. Even if it meant tarnishing her own reputation, she was determined to take down Brenna this time.


    Officials lined up the racers for staggered starts, one-minute intervals separating each vehicle, with final rankings determined byp times.


    Carsunched one by one. Brenna held the ninth starting slot. Brenna realized that Jade had inexplicably secured permission to start at the same time as her. Because of the Hewitt family¡¯s clout with the organizingmittee, this tant rule vition had slipped through the cracks.


    The two striking vehicles surged ahead at the starter¡¯s signal, elerating like arrows released from a bow. Within moments, they vanished from the oval track¡¯s view, maintaining identical speeds.


    Brenna skillfully maintained her position, a car length behind Jade, steering one-handed while casually taking in the scenery and her rival through the window. In stark contrast, Jade fought to keep her grip. Her white-knuckled hands clutched the steering wheel as she drove, her eyes darting frequently to the rearview mirror to see Brenna¡¯s car.


    g???????¦Í??????.????n ¨C ???????? ???????????????? ????


    Sweat slicked her palms; the engine¡¯s roar drowned out all other sounds as she zeroed in on the road. The gravel section loomed ahead, notorious for sending racers into spins and rollovers.


    Yet, she noticed Brenna still held her ground, a car length back. Five minutes in, and Brenna had not closed the gap.


    It appeared to her that Brenna¡¯s skills had waned; she felt a fleeting moment of relief.


    Confidence surged through her.


    As she approached the notorious gravel section, its reputation held strong. Despite passing threepetitors, her car shuddered violently, speed ebbing away as the tires struggled.


    She poured every ounce of strength into controlling the steering wheel, fighting to keep the vehicle steady. But a sideways nce shattered herposure¡ª Brenna had caught up with her, and her car glided alongside hers with ease. Panic surged, and Jade mmed the elerator, disregarding the punishing terrain beneath her.


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 Chapter 503

    ?Chapter 503:


    Brenna¡¯s window slid down further, her free hand wavingzily. She looked like she was bored.


    Fury ignited within Jade as she floored the gas pedal, surging past Brenna. ¡°You won¡¯t beat me this time!¡±


    Then, a deafening crash pierced the air. Ahead of Jade¡¯s car, a red cary overturned in a ditch, smoke billowing ominously from its hood.


    Jade knew recklessness could lead to disaster, so she held her speed, focusing on the road to avoid a simr fate.


    Her car continued to bounce wildly, but she kept her mind sharp, recalling her pre-nned strategy. But thirty secondster, the familiar whine of Brenna¡¯s engine signaled to her that Brenna had caught up with her again.


    There Brenna was, the window still open, reclining in her seat as if enjoying a leisurely drive.


    A sh of malice flickered in Jade¡¯s eyes as her finger hovered over a ck button. With a decisive move, she pressed down.


    A circr hatch in the center of her car¡¯s body sprang open, revealing a conical drill that extended and began to spin, reaching out thirty centimeters beyond the vehicle.


    The screech of metal being cut echoed. Brenna noticed from the rearview mirror that Jade had activated her illegal modification, just as she had expected.


    Brenna¡¯s lips twisted into a sneer as she regarded Jade with narrowed eyes. After all these years, was this really the best her so-called rival could muster? Just pping makeshift upgrades onto her outdated vehicle?


    With a calm expression, Brenna watched in her rearview mirror as the metal spike viciously jabbed at her car.


    At full throttle, the sh of metal against metal unleashed a shrill, ear-splitting screech, while a relentless spray of sparks erupted upward in dazzling arcs. Jade¡¯s expression bore the mark of vicious satisfaction, her lips twisting into a grin as she looked at Brenna. ¡°Enjoy yourst moments on this track.¡±


    With a determined jab, she pressed the control button again,manding the spike to extend further. Her n was straightforward: the spike would puncture the chassis, shred the tires, and send Brenna¡¯s car flipping into oblivion. Though this vited international racing rules, she couldn¡¯t care less; eliminating Brenna was her sole focus.


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    Jade shot Brenna a cold smile, but her rival remained infuriatinglyposed. Brenna had one elbow propped on the windowsill, fingers drumming a careless rhythm on the steering wheel. Fury ignited in Jade¡¯s chest.


    Why was Brenna still so calm? That spike could slice through military-grade ting! How could Brenna remain unfazed by her most powerful weapon? Jade stomped the elerator, demanding every ounce of horsepower, trying to slice Brenna¡¯s car in two with the metal spike.


    But as Jade pressed down, Brenna did the same. Jade tried hard to push her car to the limit, while Brenna maintained an unsettlingly rxed posture, a stark contrast to Jade, who strained against her harness.


    The metal spike shed with Brenna¡¯s car, sending sparks flying and producing a grating sound. Jade had been waiting for the moment Brenna¡¯s vehicle would break. Confident in the spike¡¯s material, she believed it would cut through metal with ease.


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 Chapter 504

    ?Chapter 504:


    However, two minutes passed, and Jade realized the spike had only left a white mark on Brenna¡¯s car. It hadn¡¯t even made a dent, let alone cut the car.


    How could this be possible?


    Jade¡¯s gaze darted between the rearview mirror and her control panel. The reality was undeniable; Brenna¡¯s vehicle showed no meaningful damage. ¡°This is impossible!¡± Jade hissed, her teeth clenched so tight that the words barely slipped through.


    In anger, Jade jerked the steering wheel, attempting to ram Brenna¡¯s vehicle and force the spike deeper into its chassis. The two cars now ran nearly bumper-to-bumper.


    Jade¡¯s triumphant smirk faded as her rearview mirror revealed a grim reality. Her spike was buckling in reverse, warping so fiercely that it left a dent in the very frame of her own car.


    A sickening metallic crack echoed through the cabin as the speed of her car began to slow down.


    She nced at Brenna, and Brenna only sneered.


    With surgical precision, Brenna made a slight turn, sending her rear quarter panel crashing into Jade¡¯s front end.


    The collision unleashed a cacophony of hellish sounds¡ªscreeching brakes, grinding metal, and the crunch of gravel beneath spinning tires.


    Jade¡¯s world morphed into a violent blur as her car careened uncontrobly toward a massive roadside boulder.


    The impact resonated like an explosion. Jade¡¯s car soared into the air,pleting two full rotations before crashing roof-first into the ground.


    All the airbags deployed with a sudden whoosh.


    Through the haze, Jade glimpsed Brenna¡¯s retreating taillights and that mocking wave from the driver¡¯s window.


    By the time Jade finally pulled herself from the wreckage, Brenna¡¯s car had already disappeared from her sight.


    g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s, the ce for amazing tales


    Jade stared numbly at her wrecked car. What kind of unholy material did Brenna¡¯s car use? It could even withstand a diamond-tipped spike.


    After the race was over, Brenna traced gentle fingers over the battle scars¡ªa barely noticeable dent and a superficial puncture. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, buddy,¡± she murmured. ¡°We¡¯ll buff out these scratches. You did brilliantly today.¡±


    Ethan had just dealt with the emergency that the Ward family had orchestrated¡ªspecifically, Jade¡¯s plot to undermine his support for Brenna during the race, paving the way for her deadly intentions.


    When he had watched thepetition unfold, he had felt his palms grow mmy with sweat every time Brenna¡¯s car teetered on the edge of flipping or crashing into obstacles.


    His eyes shone with admiration as he approached Brenna. ¡°You were incredible,¡± he said.


    He hadn¡¯t expected Brenna to be so skilled at racing. She was the legendary ¡°Night¡± in the racing world.


    As he examined the minor damage on her car, he reassured her, ¡°My personal garage specializes in hypercar restoration. Your racer will be wless again soon.¡±


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 Chapter 505

    ?Chapter 505:


    Brenna acknowledged his words with a nod, removing her helmet with the easy grace of a champion.


    Just then, Rosie hurried over, visibly flustered. ¡°Ethan! Jade¡¯s injuries are severe. She has facialcerations that may scar permanently. You need to check on her now!¡±


    Ethan turned to her coldly. ¡°Why should I care about her?¡±


    Rosie blinked in confusion. ¡°But I thought you and Miss Hewitt were close. She has confessed her feelings to you several times¡­¡±


    She then looked at Brenna and exined, ¡°Brenna, don¡¯t misunderstand. Ethan and Miss Hewitt have a long history. Their bond isn¡¯t just about her helping him once. They used to be really close.¡±


    Rosie had grown up in the same social circles as Ethan. Though their paths crossed only asionally, those interactions had always outshone Brenna¡¯s encounters with him. This gave Rosie the confidence that she understood Ethan better than Brenna did.


    Ethan¡¯s reputation for emotional detachment was well-known; he navigated life¡¯s choices without thepass of sentiment, never once showing romantic interest in any woman.


    Rosie had convinced herself that Ethan¡¯s choice to be with Brenna was purely calcted. As the daughter of the Harper family, Brenna held strategic value that Rosie, a mere niece of the couple, could never hope to match.


    This realization brought Rosie a strange sense of peace. She believed Ethan didn¡¯t love Brenna; his rtionship with her was nothing more than a shrewd assessment of benefits.


    By the same logic, Jade¡¯s power dwarfed Brenna¡¯s entirely. The scales of advantage had decisively tilted in Jade¡¯s favor.


    Rosie believed Ethan¡¯s indifference was just an act. ¡°After all Jade has done for you,¡± she said, ¡°are you really going to be so cold to her? You won¡¯t even visit her while she¡¯s injured? Isn¡¯t that a bit heartless?¡±


    Ethan¡¯s nod wasced with unspoken words. He did have something to say to Jade. The reckoning over Jade¡¯s assault on Brenna had been long overdue.


    1@?€?? ¡é??t?¨º§ñ$ ¨ª§Ú gal??ovels.??om


    ¡°Very well,¡± he said, his voice icy. ¡°I will pay her a visit.¡±


    He turned to Brenna, his gaze softening. ¡°Shall we go together?¡±


    Brenna nodded resolutely. She, too, had things she wanted to say to Jade.


    Together, they made their way to the hospital.


    Jade¡¯s injuries painted a stark tableau¡ªligament strains mapping her limbs, facial abrasions stretching from cheekbone to jawline, and violent purpling around her orbital bones. She looked pitiful.


    ¡°Ethan, you do care about me after all,¡± Jade said, brushing off her injuries with a wave. She believed she would bounce back in a week.


    Her radiant smile at Ethan¡¯s presence dimmed the moment Brenna stepped into view. Her expression morphed into lethal hostility. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    Instinctively, Jade reached for a gun, only to remember that in Vand, civilians were prohibited from carrying firearms. ring at Brenna, she seethed, convinced that Brenna hade to settle the score.


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 Chapter 506

    ?Chapter 506:


    Brenna looked at Jade coldly. Noticing Jade¡¯s battered state, she felt the retribution was too lenient. Jade¡¯s injury wasn¡¯t severe. Brenna had meticulously nned her move to flip Jade¡¯s car with the tail of her own vehicle countless times in her mind. Given the safety features of the race cars, her maneuver should have broken Jade¡¯s neck.


    But Jade had survived, which meant her car¡¯s safety features were exemry. However, next time, luck might not be on her side.


    ¡°I just came here to see if you died,¡± Brenna said bluntly.


    Jade shot back with venom. ¡°I won¡¯t die before you!¡±


    Ethan watched their confrontation unfold. Jade¡¯spleteck of remorse and her unwavering arrogance ignited a fire within him. He stepped forward, grabbing Jade by the throat, his eyes zing with fury. ¡°Don¡¯t think that just because you saved me once, you can harm Brenna. No oneys a hand on her and walks away unscathed. Matters between us have nothing to do with her. You better remember that.¡±


    Jade remained unfazed. She firmly believed Ethan wouldn¡¯t go as far as to kill her; he was just trying to intimidate her. Instead of backing down, she leaned in closer, a provocative smile on her lips. ¡°Ethan, this isn¡¯t about her being your girlfriend. Five years ago, I encountered Brenna on the race track, and she almost killed me. Now, I¡¯m back to settle the score with her. This has nothing to do with you.¡±


    Ethan was convinced that Jade was weaving a web of lies. She had harmed his woman and showed no remorse. Tightening his grip, he watched as Jade¡¯s face turned purple, her breathing inbored gasps.


    But even in that moment of distress, Jade remained unphased. With a twisted smile, she caressed Ethan¡¯s hand, her expression one of unwarranted delight. ¡°You really enjoy touching me, don¡¯t you?¡± she purred.


    Disgusted, Ethan yanked his hand away and wiped it with a tissue, his face contorting with revulsion. ¡°You make me sick. Mark my words: whatever I owe you will be repaid. But if you darey another finger on Brenna, I¡¯ll ensure the Ward family is erased from this world.¡±


    Brenna observed the scene with a cold, calcting gaze. Compared to five years ago, Jade had be a more ruthless and shameless adversary, even daring to flirt with Ethan right in front of her.


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    Without a second thought, Brenna grabbed a ss of water from the table and sshed it across Jade¡¯s face. ¡°Flirt with my man again, and next time, it¡¯ll be acid.¡±


    Jade chuckled lightly, unfazed by the threat. She raised an eyebrow, the challenge hanging in the air. ¡°Oh, Brenna, did you really think I¡¯d just give up on Ethan? He and I were meant to be. Love? That¡¯s just a fairy tale people tell themselves. Power? Now, that¡¯s what endures. Ethan will eventually be mine. You¡¯ll see.¡±


    With an air of arrogance, she continued, ¡°In less than three months, I¡¯ll make the Harper Group vanish from Vand. Let¡¯s see how youpete with me for Ethan then.¡±


    Brenna rode with Ethan as they left the hospital. She knew Jade never bluffed. With her reckless streak, Jade would undoubtedly target the Harper Group.


    In a swift reversal of conventional wisdom, Brenna concluded that the most impregnable defense was a preemptive strike. She quickly resolved to bring down the Ward family first.


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 Chapter 507

    ?Chapter 507:


    From her hospital room, Jade watched as Ethan¡¯s car drove away. A cial chill crept into her eyes. Just then, Rosie walked into the room, pausing beside Jade and following her gaze to the retreating car. ¡°Miss Hewitt, I underestimated Brenna¡¯s car and her racing skills,¡± Rosie admitted, guilt creeping into her voice. ¡°I apologize for what happened. If my leg were fully healed, I would have handled her myself.¡±


    Jade spun around, fury igniting. Without warning, she pped Rosie hard across the face. ¡°I told you to mess with Brenna! Why are you failing to cause trouble for her? You¡¯re useless!¡±


    Rosie instinctively clutched her face, silencing her words. She knew Jade¡¯s temper¡ªone wrong word could lead to a beating. A p, byparison, felt mild.


    ¡°I¡¯m really sorry,¡± Rosie murmured.


    Jade pped her again, the sting reverberating. ¡°That¡¯s pointless! You can¡¯t even handle this small task, and you expect me to help you get Harper Group shares?¡±


    Rosie felt a knot of frustration. She hadn¡¯t known how skilled Brenna was, nor that Jade was no match for her. Why was Jade ming her for her own failures?


    But on her own, she couldn¡¯t get more Harper Group shares. She needed Jade. Gritting her teeth, she knelt.


    ¡°It¡¯s all my fault,¡± Rosie said, her voice trembling. ¡°Punish me as you see fit, Miss Hewitt. Hit me¡ªdo whatever you want. Just don¡¯t abandon me. Please!¡±


    Jade turned her head, sneering. ¡°You couldn¡¯t even drug her. A child could do better than you.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s voice lowered, desperation seeping through. ¡°You don¡¯t understand. Brenna has medical training; she can smell drugs in food. I tried, but she saw through it. Now, I don¡¯t even know if she¡¯ll retaliate. Miss Hewitt, please give me another chance. I¡¯ll find a way to get rid of her.¡±


    Jade¡¯s eyes flicked away with disdain. ¡°Enough,¡± she snapped. ¡°Get up. Your groveling makes me look bad.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s submission had pleased Jade. Seeing a Harper on her knees was satisfying. ¡°Serve me well, and I¡¯ll help you secure more shares.¡±


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    ¡°Thank you, Miss Hewitt.¡± Rosie felt a glimmer of hope again.


    Jade walked to the bed and sat down. ¡°The Russell family¡¯s matriarch¡¯s 80th birthday is soon. Brenna will be there. You¡¯d better attend, too. We¡¯ll do something then.¡±


    Rosie looked at Jade, her curiosity piqued. ¡°What¡¯s your n, Miss Hewitt?¡±


    Jadeughed lightly. ¡°It¡¯s not finalized yet. Stay close to Brenna; don¡¯t make her suspicious. I¡¯ll need your help to deal with her then. So don¡¯t provoke her yet.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s expression mirrored Jade¡¯s hardening one as she spoke. ¡°I don¡¯t understand. Ethan used to treat you with such kindness, like a genuine friend. You even saved him once. And now, he speaks to you like that? It¡¯s outrageous.¡±


    Jade¡¯s coldugh was sharp with contained fury. ¡°This is all because of Brenna. Ethan likes her so much. What does Ethan even see in her? Aren¡¯t men supposed to be intimidated by women who are more aplished than they are? By all logic, he shouldn¡¯t be interested in her. It¡¯s infuriatingly baffling.¡±


    Rosie attempted to calm her agitation. ¡°No one remains vignt indefinitely, not even Brenna. Her defenses will eventually lower. We just need to observe carefully and seize the opportunity when it arises.¡±


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 Chapter 508

    ?Chapter 508:


    Meeting Jade¡¯s gaze directly, Rosie spoke with firm resolve. ¡°I¡¯ll get close to her in theing days and uncover her weaknesses. Everyone has them. I believe she has them, too.¡±


    Jade scoffed dismissively. ¡°Spare me the effort. After everything you¡¯ve put her through? She would never trust you again. Don¡¯t waste your time. The idea that you can get close to her is simply absurd. Just monitor her movements, identify her allies, and her weaknesses.¡±


    Rosie nodded. She knew Brenna would never allow her close; her words were mainly to show Jade her loyalty. ¡°You¡¯re right, Miss Hewitt. But I do know this: Brenna¡¯s closest friend, Ellie, has a six-year-old son, and Brenna is the child¡¯s godmother.¡±


    ¡°Oh?¡± A spark of interest ignited in Jade¡¯s eyes. A child¡ªthat presented a potential weakness. ¡°Who is the child¡¯s father?¡±


    ¡°A Russell,¡± Rosie replied.


    Saturday morning dawned bright, and Jayceon arrived at Ellie¡¯s apartment with the sun. He paused by the door, adjusting his tie, briefly pressing his hand to his chest in a nervous gesture. He then closed his eyes, inhaled deeply, and seemed to brace himself for the encounter ahead.


    ¡°Ellie, you absolutely have toe with me to my grandmother¡¯s birthday party today,¡± he muttered under his breath, forcing a smile onto his face to project confidence. Then, he pressed the doorbell.


    Tori, wearing an apron dusted with flour, opened the door. Her face immediately lit up at the sight of Jayceon. ¡°Jayceon! What a lovely surprise! Please,e in. Ellie is still asleep, but I¡¯ll wake her up right away!¡±


    It wasn¡¯t that Tori particrly liked Jayceon as a potential son-inw. However, upon learning that he was a member of the Russell family¡ªone of Shirie¡¯s most prominent families¡ªand owned his own sessful conglomerate despite not being the primary heir, she realized he was very rich. Her hospitality toward wealthy individuals knew no bounds.


    ¡°I would appreciate that,¡± Jayceon replied with practiced politeness.


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    He stepped inside, holding a gift¡ªa buildable fighter jet model, imported. In the living room, Patrick sat cross-legged on the sofa, deeply absorbed in assembling a car model that Brenna had given him a few days earlier.


    ¡°Not even a hello for your father, Patrick?¡± Jayceon sat down beside Patrick, ruffling his hair before presenting the long box. ¡°Guess what I brought for you?¡±


    Patrick¡¯s usual indifference toward Jayceon vanished as his eyes widened at the sight of the fighter jet model. ¡°Wow! Thanks, Dad!¡±


    Meanwhile, Ellie remained sound asleep until Tori burst into the room and yanked the bedcovers off her. ¡°Get up now! Jayceon is here.¡±


    Ellie groaned and pulled the covers back over her head, wanting to continue sleeping.


    But Tori was having none of it. She pulled the nkets off again and pinched Ellie¡¯s arm. ¡°Wake up! That man is very rich! And he¡¯s Patrick¡¯s father. How can you be so indifferent to him? How will Patrick inherit his wealth in the future if you treat him this way?¡±


    Ellie finally opened her eyes. ¡°Money. That¡¯s all you ever care about, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    Grumbling, Ellie forced herself into a sitting position. As annoying as it was, she knew Tori had a point. Trying to extract money from Jayceon using Patrick felt distasteful, but after all the sacrifices she had made raising Patrick on her own, she believed Jayceon could at least offer some child support. Tori turned and left the room.


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 Chapter 509

    ?Chapter 509:


    Twenty minutester, Ellie walked into the living room looking impably stylish. She sat down beside Jayceon. ¡°Alright, why did youe here today?¡± Her tone was icy, making it clear that there was no possibility of reconciliation between Jayceon and her.


    Seeing her cold and distant demeanor, Jayceon felt his spirits drop. ¡°It¡¯s my grandmother¡¯s 80th birthday today. Would you consider attending the party with me?¡±


    Ellie snorted and gave him a brief, scornful look. ¡°No thanks.¡±


    ¡°Why not?¡± Jayceon asked. ¡°You¡¯re Patrick¡¯s mother. It would be appropriate for you to attend my grandmother¡¯s birthday.¡±


    ¡°Take Patrick there if you want,¡± Ellie said tly, her gaze mocking. ¡°What identity should I use to attend the birthday party? Your former girlfriend? I don¡¯t think that¡¯s appropriate.¡±


    After an hour of failed attempts to persuade Ellie, Jayceon made no progress. Patrick was the only one who apanied him as he left.


    After Jayceon had gone, Tori confronted Ellie. ¡°When exactly are you going to get that child support from him?¡±


    Ellie rubbed her temples. ¡°I told you, when the time is right. Besides, hasn¡¯t he already given us a lot? He gave us two luxury apartments and two cars! What more do you want? Mom, don¡¯t be so greedy!¡±


    Tori sniffed disdainfully. ¡°Those were gifts for us. Patrick is his son; he deserves shares in his family business! When the right momentes, you should ask for that!¡±


    Ellie raised an eyebrow skeptically. ¡°Oh? Since when did you be an expert on that? Shares could be worthless tomorrow if hispanies fail. But money would never lose its value.¡±


    Tori¡¯s eyes zed over as she quietly mumbled calctions, weighing the value of stocks against money. Meanwhile, at the Russell family¡¯s residence¡­


    As Brenna and Ethan exited their car, their eyes immediately focused on the group gathered beneath the garden pavilion: Jade, Isabe, and Rosie were seated.


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    Together with a sweet-looking girl whom Brenna vaguely recognized as Tina Russell, Jayceon¡¯s younger sister, Patrick sat next to Tina, deeply engrossed in assembling the fighter jet model.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go greet Jayceon¡¯s grandmother first,¡± Ethan said, offering his arm to Brenna.


    Just then, Tina walked toward them, pulling Patrick along by the hand. Brenna instinctively paused, assuming they were approaching her. However, Tina walked right past her, heading directly toward someone behind her. ¡°Hey, it¡¯s been such a long time!¡± Tina eximed dramatically.


    As Tina passed Brenna, she deliberately made eye contact with her and sneered.


    Brenna turned to see a meticulously dressed little girl enter, resembling a life-sized Barbie doll.


    ¡°Brenna!¡± Suddenly, Brenna¡¯s leg was embraced, and looking down, she saw Patrick had somehow run over, his expression a pout of unhappiness.


    Brenna gently took his hand. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


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 Chapter 510

    ?Chapter 510:


    ¡°Daddy got called away and left me all alone. I don¡¯t like it here.¡± Patrick¡¯s eyes shed with hurt as he red at Tina. ¡°She just called me a bastard!¡±


    Brenna¡¯s expression turned cold. Just as she had feared, the notorious infighting within the Russell family had already ensnared an innocent child. Even siblings in the family seemed to take pleasure in tearing each other down. She crouched down to Patrick¡¯s level. ¡°Stay with me. I¡¯ll make sure she regrets calling you that.¡±


    ¡°Okay!¡± Patrick¡¯s eyes brightened with a hint of vengeful anticipation as he nodded eagerly.


    At noon, Amy Russell, the matriarch of the Russell family, made her entrance. She was silver-haired yet surprisingly spry. Her rosy cheeks and lively stride belied her age. She seemed to be in a good mood.


    ¡°You must be the Harper girl who has recently returned,¡± Amy said to Brenna.


    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s me. Happy birthday, Mrs. Russell,¡± Brenna said respectfully.


    Amy¡¯s gaze lingered pointedly on Brenna¡¯s arm linked with Ethan¡¯s. ¡°You are quite the beauty. Have you been engaged to Ethan?¡±


    Brenna answered, ¡°No, but we are dating.¡±


    Amy¡¯s lips pursed slightly. ¡°I always thought Rosie would be Ethan¡¯s wife. All of this is rather unexpected. It is clear Shepard favors his daughter over his niece.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s polite smile vanished. Beneath Amy¡¯s kind exterior lurked a sharp tongue; these carefully chosen words were intended to make her ufortable.


    Rosie, Isabe, and Jade stood nearby, exchanging amused nces as they watched Brenna¡¯s reaction. Would she dare to confront the elder of the Russell family?


    ¡°Mrs. Russell,¡± Rosie said sweetly, slipping her arm through Amy¡¯s with practiced ease, ¡°you have always been so kind to me.¡±


    Amy shot Brenna a disapproving look while patting Rosie¡¯s hand tenderly. ¡°The Harpers disy such poor manners¡ªnot a single family member came to¡­¡±


    ¡°Celebrate my eightieth birthday. But you came here to celebrate with me. Remember, if the Harper family ever mistreats you, I will stand up for you.¡±


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    Rosie beamed. ¡°Thank you, Mrs. Russell.¡±


    Brenna almostughed. The audacity of this meddling old woman. Her own family was a hotbed of conflict, yet here she was, trying to meddle in the Harper family¡¯s affairs.


    Her attempt to create animosity between her and Rosie was clear. Brenna believed Amy was clearly not a good person. But given Amy¡¯s obvious favoritism, Brenna wondered if she envisioned Rosie marrying someone from the Russell family.


    Rosie gave Brenna a challenging look, clearly anticipating an outburst that would incur Amy¡¯s wrath.


    Just as Brenna opened her mouth to respond, Ethan gave her hand a soft squeeze. He then spoke with a calm that betrayed no surprise at Amy¡¯s words. He was well aware that refined manners were a raremodity within the Russell family.


    ¡°Mrs. Russell, Rosie has always been treated well in the Harper family. Luther cherishes her, Shepard has raised her like his own daughter, and I have always regarded her as a sister.¡±


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 Chapter 511

    ?Chapter 511:


    His steady gaze fixed on Rosie. ¡°Wouldn¡¯t you agree, Rosie?¡±


    Rosie¡¯s breath hitched in her throat. Ethan was talking to her in a very gentle tone. He had never talked to her with such tenderness before.


    ¡°Ethan is right,¡± Rosie said, her eyes lowered. ¡°I have always been treated with nothing but kindness in the Harper family.¡±


    Amy, having spent decades navigating the treacherous currents of high society, immediately recognized Ethan¡¯s protective stance toward Brenna. Though inwardly irritated, she was astute enough to avoid offending the Mitchell family. Her barbs directed at Brenna would have to wait for a more opportune moment. Her gaze then settled on the grand piano.


    ¡°Ah, how I adored the arts in my younger years, symphony halls, theater boxes¡­ What a pity no one thought to arrange performances for my eightieth birthday,¡± she sighed dramatically.


    Fay, ever alert to social advantage, seized the chance, quickly walking over from Jayceon¡¯s side.


    ¡°I will y something for you, Mrs. Russell.¡±


    Amy¡¯s smile did not extend to her eyes as she assessed her. ¡°Thank you. How thoughtful of you.¡±


    Fay sat down and yed the piano.


    Amy listened, her eyes closed, while Rosie massaged her shoulders with care.


    The final chord had barely faded into silence when Tina spoke up. ¡°So, Brenna, you¡¯re a renowned engineer?¡± Her tone dripped with thinly veiled malice. ¡°Tell me, amidst all that tightening of bolts and loosening of screws, did you ever manage to acquire any art? Perhaps, ying the piano?¡±


    Isabe eagerly joined in the taunting. ¡°Brenna doesn¡¯t know how to y the piano.¡±


    Her contemptuous gaze swept over Brenna. ¡°I really don¡¯t understand what Mr. Mitchell sees in her.¡±


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    Rosie, Jade, and Tina exchanged knowing nces, smirks ying on their lips. For the past two weeks, Tina had been poisoning Amy¡¯s perception of Brenna with carefully crafted lies. She portrayed Brenna as a heartless, selfish individual who took pleasure in tormenting Rosie, orchestrating her banishment from the Harper family, and even turning her brothers against her.


    Amy¡¯s disdain for Brenna had deepened when, thanks to Rosie¡¯s subtle maniption, she had ¡°identally¡±e across hotel photographs showing Brenna checking in with a man.


    Now, witnessing Brenna¡¯s striking beauty firsthand, especially the possessive way she clung to Ethan¡¯s arm, Amy felt her suspicions were confirmed. She believed Brenna had clearly stolen Ethan from Rosie.


    Having seen Tina and Rosie grow up together, Amy had always treated Rosie with familial affection. In her eyes, Brenna naturally warranted contempt.


    Jade looked at Brenna with smug superiority. ¡°I heard you were someone of consequence, giving public lectures at Shirie University. But now, it appears you are merely amonborer. Since when dodies from respectable families engage in such manual work? Our kind curates art collections, perhaps manages businesses for amusement. Turning screws? That¡¯s the domain of the working ss, meant for men of lower standing.¡±


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 Chapter 512

    ?Chapter 512:


    A wave of hushed whispers rippled through the crowd. Dozens of pairs of eyes scrutinized Brenna.


    Brenna cleared her throat and offered a calm correction. ¡°I am not amonborer. I am a mechanical engineer. My work involves designing ships, helicopters, advanced robotic arms, and even intelligent robots.¡±


    A burst ofughter erupted from Jade, Tina, and their clique.


    ¡°Oh, please, spare us the tall tales. I only heard you knew a thing or two about car design. I¡¯ve certainly never heard that you can design anything you just mentioned,¡± Jade mocked, her tone dripping with scorn.


    Brenna rolled her eyes, frustrated that her rare attempt at an exnation had been met with such ridicule. ¡°Why would I fabricate something like that?¡±


    A surge of anger coursed through her. She regretteding here, regretted considering Ethan¡¯s reputation, and the perceived need to be acknowledged as Ethan¡¯s girlfriend.


    Ethan spoke in a calm tone, ¡°It is your ignorance and narrow-mindedness that prevent you from believing Brenna. You clearly have noprehension of the capabilities of someone with a degree in mechanical design. Brenna is not like you all, who seem to only be upied with endless beauty treatments and trivial social media. She is someone who achieves significant aplishments¡ª a highly skilled mechanical engineer.¡±


    Rosie felt a pang of displeasure at hearing Ethan¡¯s open defense of Brenna. However, she knew she couldn¡¯t reveal her true feelings. She hadn¡¯t evenughed at Brenna with Tina and the others earlier, fearing Brenna would see through her carefully constructed facade of reconciliation.


    Despite her reluctance, Rosie spoke up in Brenna¡¯s defense. ¡°Tina, Brenna is indeed an excellent mechanical engineer. I¡¯ve seen the cars she¡¯s designed; they¡¯re truly remarkable. I think she is telling the truth about designing ships and helicopters.¡±


    Tina scoffed dismissively. ¡°Oh, please. I strongly suspect she¡¯s simply lying to show off. If not, perhaps she could provide us with some examples of her work?¡± She snorted derisively and turned to Amy. ¡°Grandma, she¡¯s only just returned to the Harper family and is clearly trying to impress everyone. A little embellishment is understandable.¡±


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    Amy¡¯s expression grew stern. ¡°Do not boast in my presence. The Russell family has no wee for such individuals. If you truly wish to impress me, perform something for me. Can you do that?¡± All eyes turned to Brenna.


    Rosie quickly interjected, her toneced with nervous concern. ¡°Brenna doesn¡¯t possess any artistic talents. She¡¯spletely devoted to her work. Please don¡¯t put her in a difficult position. How about I y a piano piece for you, Mrs. Russell?¡±


    Brenna immediately recognized Rosie¡¯s ploy; she was clearly cooperating with the others to humiliate her.


    Brenna said, ¡°Mrs. Russell, if you desire performers for your birthday celebration, that¡¯s easily arranged. I can readily invite professionals.¡± Seething, Brenna was now determined to make asting impression on these condescending individuals.


    She swiftly dialed Braeden¡¯s number. ¡°I¡¯m at Mrs. Russell¡¯s birthday party. They are mocking my profession, belittling me, and dismissing my helicopter design skills as lies. I want to show them something they won¡¯t forget.¡± At the other end of the line, Braeden¡¯s eyebrows furrowed.


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 Chapter 513

    ?Chapter 513:


    ¡°Alright, just wait for a while,¡± he said.


    His most valued engineer was being subjected to such disrespect?


    He would not stand for this!


    He immediately dialed another number. ¡°Connect me to the military performance troupe.¡±


    Brenna ended the call, a flicker of satisfaction dancing in her eyes.


    Tina sneered, her voice dripping with sarcasm. ¡°Who could you possibly summon? Some street performer? Let me remind you¡ªmy grandmother possesses refined tastes, and the Russell name carries significant weight. Our gates will not simply open formon entertainers. If, by some extraordinary miracle, you do manage to produce someone noteworthy, then I¡¯ll¡­¡±


    Tina¡¯s voice trailed off as she realized she hadn¡¯t really considered what she would do if that happened.


    Brenna¡¯s lips curved into a confident smile. ¡°You¡¯ll what? How about we make a bet?¡±


    Tina straightened with an arrogant air, her chest puffed out slightly as a derisive chuckle escaped her. Her gaze swept over Brenna with clear disdain. ¡°Interesting. Who exactly do you think you are? You¡¯re not even worthy of making a bet with me.¡±


    The insult came easily to her, but then her eyes identally met Ethan¡¯s. The murderous re there sent chills down her spine.


    The Russell and Mitchell families shared a long history. Her brother, Jayceon, had been Ethan¡¯s childhood friend. Like Jayceon, she had always addressed Ethan in a familiar way. Ethan had always treated her with a gentle patience¡ªuntil this moment.


    That icy, lethal stare waspletely new to her. She could no longer hold Ethan¡¯s gaze. She knew Brenna was Ethan¡¯s girlfriend, but her pride kept her chin up. So what if she had insulted Brenna? She wouldn¡¯t apologize to her!


    Ethan¡¯s sweeping gaze took in the silent crowd; no one stepped forward to defend Brenna until little Patrick, his face red, stood in front of Brenna in a protective posture. ¡°Don¡¯t you dare insult my godmother!¡± The boy threw a piece of cake at Tina with surprising uracy.


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    The cake hit Tina¡¯s face directly. Cream sttered and then plopped onto her expensive dress.


    ¡°You little bastard, how dare you do that to me?¡± Tina shrieked. ¡°I¡¯ll beat you for this!¡±


    Ethan¡¯srge hand rested on Patrick¡¯s head, a sharp smirk on his face. ¡°Good throw, I¡¯ve got you. Let¡¯s see who dares to punish you for it.¡±


    His voice was calm and steady, without any anger, yet it held an undeniable authority that silenced everyone present.


    Tina had already stood up, raising her hand angrily to grab Patrick. But when her furious eyes met Ethan¡¯s cold stare, she was instantly shocked by the murderous intent in his eyes.


    She sank back onto the sofa, bursting into tears. ¡°Grandma! They¡¯re bullying me in my own home!¡±


    Brenna finally spoke, her tone indifferent. ¡°I wasn¡¯t aware that the Russell family bullied guests who came with good wishes. Even if I¡¯m not the Harper family¡¯s¡­¡±


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 Chapter 514

    ?Chapter 514:


    ¡°Just an ordinary personing with good intentions, you shouldn¡¯t treat me like this, right? Mrs. Russell, what do you think?¡±


    Amy¡¯s face turned pale, and she snorted heavily. While Brenna was right about basic hospitality, she believed Brenna didn¡¯t deserve an apology.


    In her opinion, Rosie was the true daughter of the Harper family, while Brenna was hardly better than a servant. She didn¡¯t deserve to be in her house, let alone at her birthday.


    Amy snatched the TV remote and threw it. ¡°Didn¡¯t your upbringing teach you any manners? Or is this how Shepard taught you to speak to an elder?¡±


    ¡°My father taught me to give respect where it¡¯s due,¡± Brenna replied smoothly. ¡°Some people just don¡¯t deserve respect.¡±


    The entire Russell family grew visibly angry.


    Davin Russell pointed a finger at Brenna. ¡°Say that again!¡±


    Ethan¡¯s gaze sharpened instantly, the air growing tense. ¡°If the Russell family members continue to show disrespect to Brenna, I won¡¯t hold back. I happen to have some free timetely. I could help clear the bad things in Shirie.¡±


    The Russell family members¡¯ faces paled. Ethan had the power to bring down the Russell family, and it was clear he wasn¡¯t bluffing.


    Davin¡¯s wife pulled his sleeve. ¡°Apologize! Now!¡±


    Davin swallowed hard. ¡°Miss Harper, Mr. Mitchell, this is a misunderstanding! We didn¡¯t mean to disrespect you. Please don¡¯t get mad. My grandmother¡¯s celebration should be peaceful.¡±


    With a reprimand, he turned to Tina and said sharply, ¡°What were you thinking? Talking to Miss Harper like that? If Miss Harper wants to make a bet with you, you should agree.¡±


    Tina had wiped most of the cream off her face, fighting the urge to strangle Brenna.


    Faced with the Russell family¡¯s angry looks, Tina didn¡¯t dare to make things difficult for Brenna anymore. ¡°Fine,¡± she said through gritted teeth. ¡°What bet are you talking about?¡±


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    Brenna¡¯s smile twisted slightly. ¡°Since you took such pleasure in trying to humiliate me, don¡¯t you think it¡¯s only fair that you pay for that? Did you think I¡¯d just take those insults?¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s see¡­¡± She tapped her chin thoughtfully.


    The sweeter Brenna¡¯s smile became, the more Tina¡¯s stomach churned. Brenna said, ¡°Ah! If I can get powerful figures toe here to celebrate Amy¡¯s birthdayter, you¡¯ll crawl through the living room and bark three times. If I can¡¯t, I will do that.¡±


    Inside the office of a military districtmander, Elsa entered with purpose and gave a sharp salute. ¡°Reporting as ordered, sir.¡±


    Themander, a broad-shouldered man, rose from his chair at once. ¡°Our lead aircraft designer is being publicly embarrassed at a social gathering. You are to provide support to her. Go and perform at the Russell family¡¯s matriarch¡¯s birthday celebration.¡±


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 Chapter 515

    ?Chapter 515:


    Elsa looked younger than her age. Though in her fifties, her smooth skin and upright posture made her appear to be in her thirties.


    ¡°Understood. When should I go?¡± she said without hesitation.


    ¡°Immediate deployment. The performance troupe is already mobilized. You¡¯ll get the briefing in the helicopter,¡± he replied, his voice firm and final.


    ¡°Yes, sir!¡± Elsa was about to step out but paused at the door. ¡°What¡¯s the designer¡¯s name, sir?¡±


    ¡°Brenna Harper,¡± themander answered.


    Elsa stiffened. The woman Ethan had brought home was the country¡¯s top aerospace engineer? That was impressive.


    But performing for her future daughter-inw? That didn¡¯t sit right with Elsa. Her face darkened. The order felt ridiculous. Had Brenna asked for her by name, or had thise down from seniormand?


    If Brenna had requested her presence, it was nothing short of insolent¡ªdirectly challenging the hierarchy. Such disrespect had no ce in her home. Her son would not be allowed to marry someone so ill-mannered.


    ¡°Sir,¡± Elsa said, trying to keep her voice steady, ¡°could we assign someone else? Brenna is my son¡¯s girlfriend. It would be inappropriate for me to go.¡±


    Themander¡¯s razor-sharp gaze cut through her protest. ¡°You have your orders already.¡±


    Elsa clenched her jaw, gave a final salute, and turned on her heel to leave.


    In the Russell family¡¯s living room, the younger generation gathered around Amy while Jayceon¡¯s father led the celebration, carefully slicing the cake for her.


    Just then, a roar outside interrupted the chatter. Heads turned at once. The sound of a helicopter approaching was unmistakable.


    The butler rushed in, panting. ¡°A military helicopter justnded in our yard!¡± Guests spilled outside in a wave of curiosity and excitement. At the front were Brenna and Ethan, their eyes fixed on the aircraft.


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    The door swung open, and the first to step down was none other than Elsa Mitchell, the legendary performer herself. She was followed by seven individuals, each carrying a musical instrument. Clearly, they were a performance troupe.


    ¡°Wait, is that Elsa? She¡¯s in the military?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s wearing insignia. Looks like a colonel¡¯s rank.¡±


    ¡°I thought she retired from public shows.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s in her fifties? How does she still look younger than me?¡±


    Gasps rippled through the crowd as their eyesnded on the high-ranking insignias. This wasn¡¯t just any band. They were looking at a high-ranking unit.


    Everyone was shocked. Jayceon¡¯s father turned to his sons, grinning from ear to ear. ¡°Did you arrange this for Grandma?¡± He stood a little taller, his chest swelling with pride. This was a grand show of respect¡ªone that honored the entire family. ¡°You¡¯ve really outdone yourselves. I am proud of you.¡±


    But Jayceon and his brother Davin exchanged confused nces and shook their heads. ¡°Dad, it wasn¡¯t us. We wouldn¡¯t even know how to contact the military. Only Ethan could pull something like this off.¡±


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 Chapter 516

    ?Chapter 516:


    Jayceon turned to Ethan, gratitude in his eyes. ¡°You did this? After what happened earlier, I thought you¡¯d sabotage the celebration.¡±


    Ethan didn¡¯t answer right away. His eyes flicked between Elsa and Brenna, and his jaw clenched. Was Brenna the one behind this? This could be a problem.


    ¡°It wasn¡¯t me,¡± Ethan said through gritted teeth. He was already thinking ahead, considering how to prevent Elsa from confronting Brennater.


    Jayceon blinked in confusion. ¡°It wasn¡¯t you?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s face darkened. She hadn¡¯t expected Braeden to call in her future mother-inw. While Elsa more than met the standard, this also brought her trouble.


    Murmurs swept through the crowd as Elsa strode up to Brenna and gave a sharp, formal salute. ¡°Ms. Harper. Orders received to attend Mrs. Russell¡¯s birthday. Please advise us on performance details.¡±


    Ethan opened his mouth to respond, but the word ¡°Mom¡± caught in his throat. Elsa¡¯s re silenced him before he could say anything.


    The Mitchells, despite their immense wealth, had always maintained a low profile. Elsa¡¯s military career had ced her far outside Shirie¡¯s social scene. Hardly anyone knew she was Ethan¡¯s mother.


    The family¡¯s privacy was so closely guarded that most people didn¡¯t even know the Mitchell family members, let alone the fact that Ethan had a twin brother.


    Ethan and Brenna both tensed, sensing the cold, dangerous aura emanating from Elsa like a wave.


    In an instant, they straightened up, suddenly on their best behavior.


    Brenna stood frozen for a moment. Elsa still wore that calm, polite smile, but the fact that she acted like she didn¡¯t know Brenna? That hit like a p. How could Brenna possibly tell her what to perform? She didn¡¯t dare.


    ¡°Anything is fine,¡± Brenna mumbled.


    Elsa¡¯s piercing gaze locked onto Ethan, causing him to fidget ufortably. Brenna, shedding any trace of arrogance, watched humbly as Elsa took the stage, no longer concerned with impressing Tina.


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    Elsa¡¯s vocal performance, though not destined for the charts, showcased her masterful training, deserving of a celebrated national artist.


    The military band wrapped up the performance in just fifteen minutes, and Elsa even took a moment to offer Amy warm birthday wishes.


    As the helicopter whisked the band away, Brenna leaned toward Ethan, murmuring, ¡°I¡¯m so sorry; I had no idea your mom would show up.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s face remained grim, unable to muster even a forced smile. He knew his mother would scold him soon. Earlier, he had recognized the pilot, Kenny, who shot him a sharp, disapproving nce.


    Back inside, Brenna stopped Tina before she could slip away. ¡°So, what did you think of the performance? Happy with the lineup?¡±


    Tina¡¯s eyes zed with fury. ¡°You, pulling strings with the military elite? Don¡¯t kid yourself; that was all Ethan¡¯s doing!¡±


    She refused to grovel or y along with any degrading stunts.


    Ethan¡¯s tone turned icy. ¡°Fine. No groveling, no theatrics. But I hear the Russells have several billion-dor deals on the table, and mypanies could use the contracts¡­¡±


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 Chapter 517

    ?Chapter 517:


    Barton Russell, Jayceon¡¯s father, quickly assessed the situation. While Brenna might be negotiable, crossing Ethan and the Harper family was a losing game.


    Swiftly, Elsa reprimanded Tina with a sharp p. ¡°A bet is a bet. The Russells won¡¯t risk Mr. Mitchell¡¯s wrath over your ego!¡±


    Tina¡¯s eyes welled with tears, and even Amy could only relent seeing her son¡¯s fury, nudging Tina forward.


    The crowd parted, creating a space for Tina¡¯s humiliating crawl.


    Tina had no choice but toply. She crawled and barked like a dog three times. A stifled chuckle from the crowd was quickly silenced by the Russells¡¯ collective re.


    Jayceon¡¯s expression darkened. Ethan, his lifelong friend, had publicly shredded the Russell family¡¯s pride. How could he face his family now? Grasping for a diversion, he announced stiffly, ¡°Lunch is ready. Let¡¯s go eat.¡± The guests eagerly dispersed to the garden, avoiding any mention of the spectacle.


    Tina, devastated, fled upstairs, crying.


    In a quiet corner, Isabe and Jade discussed the drama in hushed whispers. Jayceon pulled Ethan aside for a conversation.


    Rosie seized the moment to confront Brenna, who stood alone now. ¡°Do you even realize who that was earlier?¡±


    Her face was grave. While most guests might not have recognized Ethan¡¯s mother, Rosie had deeper connections to the Mitchell family and had recognized Elsa.


    Brenna met her gaze coolly. ¡°Yeah.¡±


    Rosie blinked, startled. She had assumed Ethan hadn¡¯t introduced Brenna to his parents. ¡°You¡¯re in deep trouble,¡± she said.


    ¡°I don¡¯t need you to tell me that,¡± Brenna shot back, casting a sidelong nce before leading Patrick to eat.


    During the meal, Brenna noticed Zoe Russell, Davin¡¯s young daughter, stealing curious nces their way with wide, innocent eyes.


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    Patrick, too, kept looking at Zoe.


    After lunch, Zoe yed in the yard, clutching a stunning crystal ball. Patrick approached her. ¡°Hi, can I y with you?¡± he asked.


    Zoe, roughly Patrick¡¯s age, smiled. ¡°Sure! I¡¯m Zoe Russell. What¡¯s your name?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m Patrick Moore. You can call me Patrick. Your crystal ball is really pretty. Can I take a look?¡± Patrick said.


    Zoe passed the shimmering crystal ball to Patrick. At that moment, a servant carrying a tray of drinks brushed by, inadvertently knocking Patrick¡¯s arm. The ball slipped from his grasp, rolling wildly across the ground. The spot was near the basement entrance, where the floor nted slightly downward.


    The crystal ball sped toward the open door and bounced down the basement stairs with a series of clinks.


    Without hesitation, Zoe and Patrick dashed after it, determined to retrieve it.


    After finishing her meal, Brenna scanned the yard for Patrick, but he was nowhere in sight.


    ¡°Patrick? Where did you go?¡± she called, rising from her seat to search for him. Isabe had just settled back into her chair, a subtle, self-satisfied glint in her eyes.


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 Chapter 518

    ?Chapter 518:


    Brenna approached her. ¡°Have you seen Patrick anywhere?¡±


    Isabe gave a casual shake of her head. ¡°No, haven¡¯t seen him.¡±


    ¡°Godmother!¡±


    ¡°Mom! Dad!¡±


    Children¡¯s cries pierced the air from the basement. Brenna¡¯s head whipped toward the sound, her heart lurching as the shouts rang out again.


    Isabe narrowed her eyes, dissatisfied. She wanted to gauge Brenna¡¯s concern for Patrick. If she panicked, he could be used as leverage again. Pointing toward the basement, Isabe widened her eyes in mock surprise. ¡°That little boy? I saw him chasing a shiny crystal ball with a girl there. They must have wandered into the basement.¡±


    Her innocent gaze noted Brenna¡¯s genuine worry for Patrick.


    Brenna couldn¡¯t quite read Isabe¡¯s intent. She believed Isabe wouldn¡¯t harm a child from the Russell family. Maybe she hadn¡¯t recognized Patrick earlier, but she remembered Isabe seeing Patrick following her. Was Isabe pretending not to know him?


    However, now was not the time to think about this. Brenna bolted to the basement door.


    The weight of the industrial fire door exined everything. It was simply too heavy for children to open.


    Brenna yanked it open. Inside, two frightened children huddled together. Patrick held Zoe¡¯s trembling hand and said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. My godmother wille rescue us.¡±


    Zoe¡¯s face was streaked with tears, her face ghostly pale. She was even more frightened than Patrick.


    As the door swung open, light spilled in from outside. Patrick squeezed Zoe¡¯s hand and said, ¡°See? I told you she woulde. Don¡¯t cry anymore.¡±


    Jade and Isabe watched from the corridor as Brenna knelt andforted Patrick. A wordless exchange passed between them before they returned to the meal.


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    Brenna examined the door. There were no signs of tampering. It was just too heavy for children.


    In the courtyard, Jayceon ushered Patrick into the spotlight, where Barton proudly dered him a member of the Russell family before the gathered crowd.


    Brenna¡¯s jaw clenched. Ellie had firmly rejected marriage and made it clear that she had no intention of changing Patrick¡¯s surname. Yet Jayceon had taken it upon himself to im Patrick as a member of the Russell family, entirely without Ellie¡¯s consent. Now, he even dared to change the boy¡¯sst name.


    Under the weight of so many eyes, Patrick squirmed. Ellie had told him he would carry the Moore family name, but his grandmother insisted he take the Russell family name. He didn¡¯t know whom to listen to.


    His uncertain gaze flickered to Jayceon as the echoes of Ellie¡¯s and Tori¡¯s words shed in his mind. Ellie had rejected his return to the Russell family but still supported his right to their legacy.


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 Chapter 519

    ?Chapter 519:


    As the guests left, Jayceon kept a firm grip on Patrick¡¯s hand. ¡°He will stay with us for a few days,¡± he said to Brenna.


    Brenna didn¡¯t protest. She simply turned and left, Ethan by her side.


    On the way home, Brenna forwarded Ellie the video of Patrick¡¯s formal recognition.


    ¡°Jayceon has gone too far!¡± Ellie¡¯s voice burst through the phone, crackling with fury. ¡°I already shut down that ridiculous surname change idea days ago! All members of the Russell family are vipers. They will swallow my son whole without blinking!¡±


    ¡°What are you nning to do?¡± Brenna asked, her voiceced with concern. ¡°I just left the Russell family estate. Should I turn around and bring Patrick back with me?¡±


    She heard the sound of a door closing on Ellie¡¯s end.


    ¡°There is no need. I¡¯ll go myself,¡± Ellie replied. ¡°You are just his godmother and don¡¯t have legal guardianship. It wouldn¡¯t be appropriate¡ªlet¡¯s face it, the Russell family won¡¯t just hand him over. I¡¯ll deal with them myself.¡±


    Brenna nodded. ¡°Just be careful. The Russell family members are all shrewd.¡±


    After the call ended, Ethan tentatively reached for Brenna¡¯s hand and said, ¡°The Russell family is a den of vipers, full ofpeting siblings. The internal strife is fierce. Patrick is not ready to step into that snake pit.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s brows furrowed. ¡°Is Jayceon using Patrick as a pawn for the inheritance?¡±


    Ethan shook his head without hesitation. ¡°I don¡¯t think so.¡±


    Just then, Ethan¡¯s phone rang. He nced at the screen, and his expression immediately shifted, bracing himself for a scolding.


    Brenna nced at his phone and could almost feel Elsa¡¯s fury radiating from the screen.


    Ethan answered the call with forced calm. ¡°Hey, Mom.¡±


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    ¡°Don¡¯t call me Mom,¡± Elsa snapped, her voiceced with rage. ¡°I suppose I should address you and your girlfriend respectfully now.¡±


    The volume of her voice stung Ethan¡¯s ears, and he instinctively pulled the phone a few inches away. ¡°I¡¯lle back and exin everything. Today¡¯s situation was just an ident. Brenna had no idea it would be you¡­¡±


    ¡°Save your breath. I don¡¯t want to hear your exnations.¡± Elsa was genuinely furious. She had attended countless state functions, but never as the entertainment at a socialite¡¯s party.


    Following orders in the military was normal for her, but when she learned that Brenna had been the one to ask her to go there, she felt she had been yed.


    ¡°I won¡¯t allow you two to be together,¡± she dered.


    After dropping Brenna off at the Harper residence, Ethan headed straight back to the militarypound, the weight of what awaited him pressing heavily on his shoulders. Inside, his father, Emmett Mitchell, and his mother sat stiffly on the living room sofa, their expressions dark¡ªEmmett¡¯s in particr, brimming with unmistakable displeasure.


    The air was thick with tension, a heavy silence enveloping the room like a dense fog. Ethan¡¯s gaze flitted around, only to confirm that Kenny, usually his staunch ally in such familial disputes, was absent. Ethan greeted his parents with a cautious tone, his steps hesitant as he sank into an armchair across from them. The stark military decorations on their uniforms added an extrayer of authority and sternness to their already imposing demeanors.


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 Chapter 520

    Chapter 520:


    ¡°Well, Mr. Mitchell,¡± Emmett said, his voice thick with sarcasm. ¡°So you¡¯ve got the guts to parade your mother around like a stage act for that little girlfriend of yours? Feeling high and mighty now that you¡¯ve made something of yourself, huh? Think that gives you the right to disrespect your parents?¡±


    Elsa¡¯s eyes narrowed like a de as she locked her gaze on Ethan. Her lips were drawn into a taut line, her silence sharper than any words. Desperate to defuse the situation, Ethan said, ¡°Please, let me exin.¡± But Emmett, a man who prided himself on discipline and results, bristled at Ethan¡¯s defensive tone. His face contorted with anger as he snapped, ¡°Exin what? The deed is done, Ethan! It¡¯s a fact. No amount of talking will change what you¡¯ve already done!¡±


    His re intensified, a silent testament to his disappointment in Ethan¡¯s decision to prioritize Brenna over him and Elsa. With a finality that chilled the room even further, he dered, ¡°Let me be clear¡ªI do not, and will not, approve of your marriage to that Harper girl!¡±


    His voice boomed, brooking no argument.


    Ethan whirled around to face Elsa, his voiceden with frustration. ¡°Mom, can¡¯t you at least hear me out?¡±


    Elsa let out a sharp, humorlessugh, her expression twisted with scorn. ¡°Hear you out? And what exactly are you going to say? I only know that because of your little girlfriend, I had to stand up there and perform for the Russell family.¡±


    She folded her arms, eyes narrowing. ¡°Those high-and-mighty folks from Shirie stared at me like I was a trained monkey dragged in for their amusement. And my coworkers? They¡¯ve been talking about me nonstop, saying I bowed and scraped for your girlfriend like she was some kind of queen.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not what you think,¡± Ethan said firmly. The weight of the misunderstanding pressed heavily on his chest.


    He nced between his parents, then continued, ¡°Mom, Dad, it was Mrs. Russell¡¯s 80th birthday today, and¡­¡± Heunched into the full story, recounting every detail in the hope it would clear the air.


    But his parents¡¯ faces remained dark. Elsa¡¯s lips were still set in a tight line, and Emmett¡¯s scowl only deepened, his disappointment carving deep lines into his stern features.


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    His voice dropped into a cold, cutting tone. ¡°All just to win a pointless argument and protect her pride, Brenna used military assets like they were her personal toys. Does she even understand what the military stands for? A woman like that has no ce in our family. I¡¯ve made myself clear; I won¡¯t allow you two to get married.¡±


    Elsa nodded vigorously, her agreement evident. ¡°Exactly. If the Harper family is so keen on upholding the marriage agreement, then so be it. It was Ableson Harper who saved your father, hence it¡¯s his daughter Audrey you should marry. Audrey, I must admit,es across as far more sensible and considerate than Brenna. Brenna grew up outside of the Harper family and didn¡¯t even get a proper education. She may have some skills, but when ites to values and character? She falls short. I won¡¯t let you and her get married.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s face stiffened, the warmth draining as he faced his parents¡¯ demands. Patience had abandoned him; their insistent, backward views were more than he could tolerate.


    He was a grown man now, and his life was no one else¡¯s to control. ¡°Now, if this is just about settling some old debt, surely you can let my brother do that. I won¡¯t be part of this. I am not marrying Audrey. You can let Kenny marry her. My marriage is not something you can use to repay your debt,¡± he said.


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 Chapter 521

    ?Chapter 521:


    ¡°Utter nonsense! You ungrateful brat!¡± Emmett exploded, hurling a shoe at Ethan, his anger manifesting physically. ¡°Look at you, all grown and defiant. You don¡¯t respect us anymore, do you?¡±


    Elsa¡¯s voice pitched higher with frustration. ¡°Just look at him! Once so courteous and obedient. He has changed since Brenna came into his life¡­¡±


    Ethan, with a swift move, caught the flying shoe and set it calmly at Emmett¡¯s feet.


    Cutting through Elsa¡¯sment, Ethan countered, ¡°That¡¯s not fair, Mom. I¡¯ve always made my own decisions. No one¡¯s ever had a leash on me. You remember the military? You and Dad tried to get me to join the military, but I said no, didn¡¯t I? And what happened after that? Dad beat the hell out of me and locked me up for three days without food. But I still didn¡¯t relent. Did you forget that?¡±


    Emmett¡¯s whole body trembled with fury. His eyes darted around until they locked onto several coat racks in the corner. With a snarl, he grabbed one and swung it violently at Ethan.


    Ethan bolted toward the hallway, with Emmett right on his heels. For a man his age, Emmett moved with surprising speed, leaping over the sofa with ease.


    Thoughcking any military training, Ethan was nimble for his age. He easily dodged Emmett¡¯s frenzied swings.


    ¡°Who I marry is entirely my decision. I¡¯m an adult now. You can¡¯t control me anymore!¡± Ethan yelled over his shoulder as he dashed toward the door.


    In a burst of rage, Emmett hurled the coat rack at Ethan, aiming for the back of his head.


    Yet, Ethan seemed to sense the iing danger. He spun around, snatched the flying coat rack, and hung it neatly on the door¡¯s hook. Without missing a beat, he yanked open his car door, slid into the driver¡¯s seat, fired up the engine, and tore out of the driveway.


    ¡°Look at him, so defiant and unyielding. It¡¯s unbelievable; we¡¯vepletely lost our grip on him!¡± Emmett eximed, his hands nted firmly on his hips as he seethed, his face contorted with rage.


    Elsa sighed. ¡°And here I am, about to retire next month, and now this scandal surfaces, turning me into a joke among my colleagues. I absolutely refuse to ept that woman as my daughter-inw! If she sets foot in our house, she¡¯ll have me running errands like a servant soon!¡±


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    On Sunday morning, Brenna was deep in sleep when a sudden, forceful knocking echoed through the door.


    ¡°Get up, Brenna!¡± Rosie¡¯s enraged shout pierced the stillness, apanied by relentless thumps on the door.


    Irritated, Brenna dragged herself out of bed to unlock the door, only to face Rosie, her face wlessly made-up but twisted with fury. ¡°You¡¯reing with me to apologize to Tina right now!¡± Rosie eximed.


    ¡°Are you out of your mind?¡± Brenna snapped, attempting to close the door.


    Rosie, anticipating the move, wedged her foot in the gap, preventing the door from closing. ¡°Tina tried to take her lifest night, Brenna. She nearly died because of what you did¡ªhumiliating her, making her crawl and bark like a dog in front of everyone. Don¡¯t you think you went too far? Degrading someone in their own home like that¡­ You¡¯ve really crossed a line!¡±


    Brenna¡¯s face remained cold, unaffected by the guilt or regret Rosie hoped to provoke. ¡°Didn¡¯t Tina shame me first? You heard her words. And I don¡¯t remember you defending me then. Honestly, Rosie, I sometimes wonder if we¡¯re even rted.¡±


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 Chapter 522

    ?Chapter 522:


    Brenna gave a slight eye-roll, clearly dismissive of Rosie¡¯s selective moral outrage and performativepassion.


    As expected, Rosie was briefly at a loss for words but soon grew even more incensed. ¡°I know you; you¡¯ll never let anyone walk all over you. And Ethan was there, wasn¡¯t he? He had your back. You didn¡¯t need me. Besides, you humiliated Tina sessfully. Now Tina just woke up and is already talking about killing herself again. You need to apologize to her. Now.¡±


    Brenna showed no sign of moving. Leaning casually against the doorframe, she arched an eyebrow. ¡°I¡¯m not going.¡±


    ¡°She lost so much blood from shing her wrist, Brenna. The doctors said if she had been found half an hourter, she would have died. How can you be so heartless? Not everyone is as resilient as you. Do you really think she could handle the kind of humiliation you dished out? If you don¡¯t apologize, she¡¯ll try to kill herself again. Don¡¯t be so cruel!¡± Rosie¡¯s anger boiled over as she began pushing Brenna, urging her to change and go.


    Brenna shoved her back. ¡°I¡¯m heartless? She brought this on herself. She insulted me first. So, I¡¯m supposed to just swallow it, and when I finally hit back, I be the viin? Now I¡¯m expected to grovel so she can humiliate me again to feel better about herself?¡±


    ¡°Better? That¡¯s not fair at all. She¡¯s an adult. Doesn¡¯t she know that actions have consequences?¡± With that, Brenna firmly closed the door, ignoring Rosie¡¯s persistent banging afterward.


    Rosie lingered outside for over ten minutes before finally giving up.


    Thirty minutester, Brenna descended the stairs in rxed attire and found Rosie sitting on the living room sofa, still seething.


    ¡°Are you going or not? If you don¡¯t, the Russells won¡¯t let this slide. They¡¯re not like Jay and his crew; they¡¯re not pushovers,¡± Rosie cautioned, her tone softening slightly. ¡°Can¡¯t you think of our family for once? Do you know why your parents skipped Mrs. Russell¡¯s birthday party? Our families don¡¯t get along, but you made it worse by humiliating Tina in their own house. I¡¯m asking you to apologize for your own sake and safety. If you don¡¯t, the Russells mighte after you.¡±


    Despite Rosie¡¯s lengthy plea, Brenna¡¯s expression remained impassive. She replied, ¡°You¡¯re this worried about the rtionship between our family and the Russell family? Amy seemed awfully fond of you. Why don¡¯t you go say sorry for me?¡±


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    The household staff quietly watched the sh between Brenna and Rosie, soaking up the drama. Julia even stood boldly in the pantry doorway, observing the spectacle. Brenna then turned and walked away.


    Rosie, exasperated, redirected her frustration at the eavesdropping servants. ¡°What are you staring at? Get back to work, or you¡¯ll be fired!¡±


    Julia hurried after Brenna with a lunch bag packed with sealed containers. ¡°Miss Harper, here¡¯s the food you requested¡ªegg tarts, cookies, cake, and yogurt.¡±


    Brenna nodded, took the bag, and headed to the garage to drive her car. She had ns to take Ellie and Patrick to Disnend today.


    When she pulled up to Ellie¡¯s ce, Ellie and Patrick were already waiting for her at the entrance.


    As Patrick climbed into the car, he immediately noticed the snacks Brenna had brought. ¡°Thanks, Brenna!¡±


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 Chapter 523

    ?Chapter 523:


    Ellie opened the containers and started eating with Patrick. ¡°You know me too well, bringing food because you know I always skip breakfast,¡± she said to Brenna.


    Brenna casually brought up the previous day¡¯s events. ¡°The Russell family let you take Patrick home yesterday?¡±


    Ellie¡¯s expression darkened with anger. ¡°I thought they cared about Patrick, but when I arrived, Jayceon¡¯s dad and grandma were berating him. The maids were holding him down, forcing him to kneel. Jayceon wasn¡¯t even there; who knows where he was at that time? It made me so mad.¡±


    Patrick, still chewing his food, looked up at Brenna with wide, pitiful eyes. ¡°Brenna, I never want to go back there. They were all mean. That olddy with gray hair yanked my hair and kept talking about doing some kind of DNA test. She even said I only came back for the Russell family¡¯s money and called Mommy a bad woman too! They¡¯re bad! Every single one of them. I¡¯m never going to Daddy¡¯s house again.¡±


    Brenna caught his troubled little face in the rearview mirror. If she had known how cruel the Russells could be, especially to a child, she would have taken him with her when she left.


    ¡°You¡¯re not going back there,¡± she assured him. The Russell family had crossed a line.


    Ellie spoke up, her voice tight with frustration. ¡°By the time I got to the Russell estate, Patrick was already on his knees. Their whole family was surrounding him, asking him how I made a living in Norview and whether there was a man in our home. You wouldn¡¯t believe the kind of filth they were spewing. And you know what made it worse? Jayceon wasn¡¯t even there. Only God knows where he ran off to. I tried calling him, but his phone was off.¡±


    Brenna felt her chest tighten with anger. ¡°No wonder you never wanted to get back together with him, even though he¡¯s rich and Patrick¡¯s father.¡±


    ¡°Even if every man on the disappeared, I still wouldn¡¯t get back together with him,¡± said Ellie. ¡°Don¡¯t let the fact that he¡¯s friends with your brother and Mr. Mitchell fool you. He¡¯s nothing like them. Your brother and Mr. Mitchell, especially Mr. Mitchell, are decent. They don¡¯t mess around with women. Jayceon, on the other hand, is pure trash. He says I¡¯m the only woman he has ever loved, and at the same time, he¡¯s sleeping around with another woman. Fay sent me pictures of her and Jayceon in hotel rooms three times this month. Just looking at them makes my stomach churn.¡±


    After a pause, she continued, ¡°And get this, justst night, past midnight, he called me all panicked. He tried to exin what happened. He said it was some urgent crisis at work and that if he didn¡¯t deal with it, he¡¯d lose three hundred million. He begged me to understand him. Can you believe that? In his eyes, Patrick and I don¡¯t evene close to that amount of money. And he still thinks I will believe whatever he says. Please. I¡¯m done falling for his crap.¡±


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    When Brenna, Ellie, and Patrick stepped into the amusement park, Patrick¡¯s eyes lit up. Everything around him felt magical and new. Even Brenna and Ellie, despite being adults, couldn¡¯t help but feel happy. The park was lively. The three of them went on more than a dozen rides back-to-back,ughing the whole way through.


    The park was packed with weekend visitors, none of whom noticed that they were being followed. Lines stretched long at every attraction. As night approached and the fireworks show drew near, Ellie and Patrick, tired from all the walking, found a perfect spot to rest and wait for the disy. Brenna offered to get some food and left.


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    ?Chapter 524:


    The bodyguards assigned to Brenna by the military sensed something was off. Their eyes stayed sharp, their movements tight. They kept close, suspecting that this time, Brenna might be the target.


    Brenna returned with arms full: burgers, fried chicken, desserts, and drinks. Her face looked a little tired, but her smile remained. However, when she returned to the spot, she stopped in her tracks. Ellie and Patrick were not there.


    ¡°Where did they go?¡± she muttered while searching the crowd, but there was no sign of them.


    One of the bodyguards, Morton Sugden, spoke up. ¡°Maybe they just went to the restroom.¡±


    Brenna nodded and dialed Ellie¡¯s number.


    It turned out that Patrick had needed to use the restroom, so Ellie had taken him there. But since it was the men¡¯s room, she couldn¡¯t go in with him and had to wait outside.


    Now, ten minutes had passed, and Patrick still hadn¡¯te out. Ellie stood near the door, visibly anxious. She stopped a maning out of the restroom and held up her phone with Patrick¡¯s photo. ¡°Excuse me, have you seen this little boy? He went in about ten minutes ago.¡± The man nced at the photo and shook his head. ¡°Sorry, I haven¡¯t seen him.¡±


    Ellie¡¯s worry deepened. Patrick was a smart kid. A quick restroom visit shouldn¡¯t have taken this long. He had said he just needed a minute. Even if there had been a line inside, he should have been out by now.


    Brenna, along with the two bodyguards, headed straight to the restroom area. Sensing something wasn¡¯t right, the bodyguards didn¡¯t want to leave her side. Morton headed into the restroom to search for Patrick, leaving the other bodyguard with Brenna.


    About five minutester, Morton returned. With his face tight with concern, he shook his head and grimly replied, ¡°No sign of him. I checked every stall. There¡¯s no other exit. Ms. Moore, did you happen to notice anyone suspicious earlier?¡±


    Ellie tried to think back. There hadn¡¯t been any obvious suspects. No one was hauling around a suitcase big enough to hide a child. But she did remember seeing several people carryingrge backpacks. Given the number of out-of-town tourists visiting the amusement park, it wasn¡¯t unusual to carry a backpack.


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    ¡°There were a few with really big backpacks. Three or four of them at least¡­¡± Ellie replied, her voice trailing off as a sickening realization hit her. Panic surged through her chest. ¡°It has to be the Russell family. They¡¯d do anything to fight over the inheritance. They must¡¯ve taken Patrick to pressure Jayceon into giving up his shares.¡±


    With trembling hands, she pulled out her phone and dialed Jayceon, her fury rising with each passing second.


    Morton and Jaxson, though d in civilian attire, were military personnel. They shed their identification to the staff at the park and secured permission to dive into the park¡¯s surveince archives.


    The results were disheartening. Countless cameras positioned near the fireworks disy had been broken since the day before and remained untouched by repair crews.


    ¡°This isn¡¯t your run-of-the-mill kidnapping case,¡± Morton said, exchanging a knowing nce with Jaxson Carrillo. They were still piecing together whether this abduction was specifically aimed at Brenna, but the air was thick with the scent of conspiracy.


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    Without wasting a moment, Morton ryed the grim situation to his superiors, anxiously awaiting their next move.


    Ellie was still on the line, unleashing a torrent of fury at Jayceon.


    Jayceon, about to wrap up his day at work, sat in his office chair, his expression a storm of rage. He dialed Davin directly after the call with Ellie, his voice a low growl. ¡°Was it you? Did you orchestrate Patrick¡¯s kidnapping? Keep our feud between us; don¡¯t drag a child into this mess. I don¡¯t care what underhanded schemes you conjure up over the Russell Corporation. But mark my words¡ªif you so much asy a finger on my son, I¡¯ll bring your entire world crashing down!¡±


    Davin was taken aback. He hadn¡¯t even set foot in the office today; he was enjoying a family vacation at a mountain resort, currently harvesting strawberries at a nearby farm. Standing tall, he dered, ¡°Even if Dad hasn¡¯t acknowledged Patrick as family, I can¡¯t fathom you iming some random kid as your own. So I know Patrick is your child. No matter the depths of my hatred for you, I wouldn¡¯t stoop so low as to use a child as a pawn. It wasn¡¯t me.¡±


    He ended the call, frustration simmering within him as he muttered, ¡°Who in their right mind would dare kidnap someone from the Russell family?¡±


    Yet, the next second, a sly, malicious grin soon crept across his face. Someone was stepping in to handle Jayceon, and that suited him just fine. He hoped the kidnappers would seed, even trading Jayceon for Patrick. That way, he could avoid dirtying his own hands dealing with Jayceon.


    ¡°Cancel all my appointments,¡± Jayceon barked at his secretary as he stormed out of the office, his expression dark.


    As he walked, he called Tina, probing for her involvement, but she tly denied it and chastised him instead.


    Meanwhile, in the surveince room, Morton and Jaxson werebing through a sea of video feeds, hunting for anything out of ce, but their efforts yielded nothing. With tens of thousands of visitors daily and abyrinth of cameras, pinpointing a suspect among the throng felt like searching for a needle in a haystack.


    Brenna and Ellie, both sharp-eyed and determined, joined the search, adding their keen observations to the mix. However, Ellie was drowning in a sea of emotions. Her mind was flooded with harrowing images of Patrick being tortured, or worse, leaving her paralyzed with fear. She sat in a chair, panic gripping her as she clutched her phone with white-knuckled intensity, waiting for the kidnappers to make their move.


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    If they weren¡¯t from the Russell family, they could be the Russell family¡¯s rivals, or perhaps her own enemies. Over the years, she, Brenna, and Thiago had ruffled quite a few feathers, even among some shady figures in the underworld.


    So, Ellie and Brenna were left in the dark about who had taken Patrick. Just as despair settled over the group, Brenna¡¯s phone rang. An unknown number shed on the screen. Morton and Jaxson sprang into action, prepping their equipment to trace the call before letting Brenna answer.


    On the other end of the line was a man, his voice distorted by a voice changer. ¡°If you want the boy alive, don¡¯t call the cops. Don¡¯t tell anyone.¡±


    ¡°Where is he?¡± Brenna asked, her voice steady. She was far moreposed than Ellie.


    ¡°Wait for further instructions.¡± The caller seemed all too aware of the potential for being tracked and hung up instantly.


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    ?Chapter 526:


    Brenna turned to Morton and Jaxson, who shook their heads in frustration.


    Jaxson said, ¡°The call was too brief; we couldn¡¯t get a trace.¡±


    Brenna braced herself for a long wait before hearing from the kidnappers again, but to her astonishment, only half a minuteter, her phone buzzed with a new message containing a location.


    ¡°Come to this ce alone at 12:30 tonight. We¡¯re keeping an eye on you. Try anything, and the boy dies.¡±


    Morton and Jaxson exchanged knowing nces; it was bing clear that this kidnapping wasn¡¯t aimed at Ellie or the Russell family. No, it was aimed at Brenna. After all, why hadn¡¯t the kidnappers reached out to Patrick¡¯s mother?


    Everyone¡¯s eyes were glued to the screen, thick tension in the air. Morton was the first to break the silence. ¡°No. Absolutely not. You¡¯re not going.¡±


    Brenna felt an unsettling chill creeping in. She rifled through her memories, recalling those she had crossed over the years¡ªthe Ward family in Norview, the Murrays in Orwall, and the military in Valport. She had stepped on quite a few toes, and the list of potential vendettas was overwhelming.


    As she shared her roster of enemies with Morton and Jaxson, they scrutinized each name but ultimately dismissed them all.


    Yet the most usible threat emerged from her position as the lead designer of the next-generation fighter jet. If that sensitive information had leaked, the kidnapping could easily be the work of a foreign adversary.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go,¡± Ellie dered suddenly, her eyes fixed on the message.


    ¡°No,¡± Brenna said immediately. ¡°They specifically asked for me. If I don¡¯t show up, they might kill Patrick.¡±


    Morton rose, his demeanor authoritative. ¡°We¡¯ll wait for orders from higher-ups before taking any action. Miss Harper, you¡¯re far too valuable to the military. This is just a kidnapping; we can manage this without putting you in harm¡¯s way.¡±


    When Jayceon hurried into the surveince room, he found it empty of the familiar faces he had expected. Brenna and the others had vacated the space, which was now swarming with military personnel. Dozens of uniformed officers poured over the screens, their faces set in grim lines of determination, none willing to divulge any details to Jayceon. Memories of Brenna effortlessly orchestrating a military band for Amy¡¯s birthday celebration shed through Jayceon¡¯s mind. The connection dawned on him; this ordeal was steeped in secrecy. With a wary nce around the room, he decided against probing further and made his way to Thiago¡¯s ce.


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    After understanding the full scope of what had happened, Thiago quickly advised Ellie and Brenna not to return to Ellie¡¯s home. He was deeply concerned that Ellie¡¯s elderly parents might not be able to handle the news, so he told Ellie to call and gently inform them that she and Brenna would be staying at Brenna¡¯s ce for the night.


    Jayceon showed up not long after, stepping into Thiago¡¯s residence, just a few hundred square feet tucked inside a sleek, high-endplex. The small group sat in tense silence on the couch, their expressions tight, each of them waiting for the military¡¯s next orders.


    The military was convinced this wasn¡¯t some random kidnapping; it was a deliberate strike aimed at the chief designer behind their next-generation fighter jet. The weight of that realization had them treating the situation with absolute gravity. In less than thirty minutes, a dedicated task force was assembled, and any offer of police assistance was swiftly turned down; the military intended to handle this on their own terms.


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 Chapter 527

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    The address the kidnappers sent to Brenna pointed to an old, abandoned chemical nt on the outskirts of northwest Shirie, a ce long left to rust and rot. Military scouts had already swept through the site. It was deserted, just as expected. They moved fast, setting up surveince in and around the area, ready to spring into action the second the kidnappers showed up with the hostage.


    Meanwhile, at a private port in Shirie, a man clutching a ck backpack broke into a brisk stride and scrambled onto a sleek luxury yacht. The yacht, modest yet elegant with its three decks and 140-foot length, began to drift away from the dock the moment he boarded. He carelessly flung his ck backpack onto the deck and unzipped it to reveal Patrick, who was still engulfed in a deep slumber.


    Jade emerged from the cabin, her expression cold. Spotting Patrick, she delivered a sharp kick to his side without a moment¡¯s hesitation. ¡°As soon as we hit international waters, dump him into the sea,¡± she said.


    With a dutiful nod, the man yanked Patrick from the backpack, quickly bound him with ropes, and anchored him to the yacht¡¯s railing. He then stuffed the empty backpack with stones, zipped it, and tossed it aside with a dismissive gesture.


    Turning to Jade, he said cautiously, ¡°Miss Hewitt, there¡¯s a chance Brenna might have military connections. Just yesterday, she managed to summon a military band to the Russell estate with a single phone call. We need to tread carefully; if the military gets on our trail¡­¡±


    Jade scoffed, her gaze fixed on the frothy wake the yacht left behind. ¡°Unlikely. We neutralized all surveince within a 700-foot radius around the restroom. Besides, we orchestrated a parade of distractions; twenty people exited that restroom consecutively, each carrying identical backpacks. Not even the military could discern which person kidnapped the kid.¡±


    Acknowledging her confidence with a silent nod, the man retreated into his thoughts.


    As darkness enveloped the sea, the yacht became a solitary beacon on the boundless waters.


    Jade waited until the clock struck ten. Then, she made a call. ¡°Proceed. And if Brenna dares to show her face, don¡¯t hesitate¡ªshoot to kill.¡± Within moments, Jade slid a freshly bought SIM card into her phone and braced herself to make a call to Brenna.


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    Beside her, the man lifted his pistol, pressing the cold barrel against Patrick¡¯s temple without hesitation.


    Jade crouched down, took a quick shot of the unconscious Patrick with her phone, and forwarded it to Brenna. Activating the voice distorter, she masked her tone beneath that same harsh, mechanical rasp. Jade was well aware that Brenna wasn¡¯t alone; she had the military watching her back. That was why every second counted; she couldn¡¯t afford to stay on the line longer than sixty seconds.


    She had anticipated every angle, every surveince tactic the military might throw at her. The route, the timing, even the signal bounce-back. She dialed the number. It rang, but Brenna didn¡¯t pick up.


    Time seemed to stretch, and just as the automated disconnection loomed close, Brenna answered the call.


    Jade¡¯s distorted voice shed through the silence. ¡°Listen carefully¡ªshow up alone, or I will put a bullet in the kid¡¯s head.¡±


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    Brenna deliberately spoke with a panicked tone. ¡°What do you want? Money? Information? Name your price. Just don¡¯ty a finger on Patrick, please!¡±


    Jade¡¯sugh sliced through the tense air, icy and mocking. She realized that even Brenna, usually the epitome of calm, wasn¡¯t immune to bouts of sheer panic. This realization sparked a wicked thrill in her, making her deviate from her initial ns. The thought of witnessing Brenna¡¯s downfall firsthand, of seeing her grovel and plead, was too enticing to resist.


    She said, ¡°That depends entirely on my mood. Prepare a hundred million and get to that ce before midnight. A minutete, and the kid¡¯s fate is sealed.¡±


    If only she had known sooner how deeply Brenna cared about Patrick, she wouldn¡¯t have dyed her actions after Ethan had fallen for Brenna.


    Desperation seeped into Brenna¡¯s tone. ¡°Fine, I¡¯llply with your demands. But first, I need proof. Show me Patrick is still alive.¡±


    Beside Jade, the bodyguard subtly shook his head in disapproval. Ignoring his silent warning, Jade confidently said to Brenna, ¡°Hold on, I¡¯ll send you a video.¡±


    She ended the call briskly, filmed a brief ten-second clip of the boy, and sent it to Brenna with a few taps on her phone.


    The bodyguard shared his concern in a hushed voice, saying, ¡°Miss Hewitt, Brenna has military support. That call might have lingered too long. They could have tracked us already.¡±


    Jade cast a dismissive nce his way, her confidence unshaken. ¡°Impossible. Pinpointing a moving target requires at least two minutes. Trust me, I know what I¡¯m doing.¡±


    At Thiago¡¯s home, a group of military personnel d in uniforms assembled. The atmosphere was thick with tension, the kind that hangs in the air before a storm, as the professionals sat on the couch, their brows furrowed in concentration, determined to lock onto the elusive signal.


    Braeden stood off to the side, a silent sentinel, observing the scene unfold. The room was a still pond, every eye riveted on the two technicians, hearts pulsing with anxiety and hope.


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    Before long, one of them lifted his headphones from his ears, a wave of relief washing over his features. ¡°Mr. Foster,¡± he announced, his voice steady but charged with excitement, ¡°we¡¯ve locked onto the target¡¯s location. It¡¯s out at sea, moving fast.¡±


    He then passed over a slip of paper with the coordinates.


    Without missing a beat, Braeden snatched up his inte, his voice firm as he ryed the order for the waiting team outside to make their way to the designated spot.


    Brenna sprang to her feet, determination etched on her face. ¡°They asked for me specifically, which means I need to be there, just in case something goes awry.¡±


    Ethan stood up beside her, urgency in his eyes. ¡°It¡¯s too risky. I¡¯m going with you.¡±


    He sped Brenna¡¯s hand tightly, his resolve strengthening. His team was on standby, ready to leap into action at hismand. This was his moment to step up as her protector.


    Thiago interjected, his expression grave, ¡°No. I¡¯ll go with Ellie. Brenna, you¡¯re staying put.¡±


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    He understood the weight of Brenna¡¯s role within the military. He didn¡¯t want toplicate things for the military or expose Brenna to unnecessary danger.


    Ellie nodded, her agreement clear. ¡°Exactly. I can disguise myself as you and go.¡±


    But Brenna dismissed the suggestion without a moment¡¯s pause, saying, ¡°No. If the kidnappers managed to snatch Patrick while evading all those surveince cameras, they¡¯re no amateurs. They won¡¯t be easily tricked.¡±


    Braeden watched them talk, concern etched on his brow. He, too, didn¡¯t want Brenna to put herself in harm¡¯s way. He said, ¡°None of you needs to go. Our team is already en route. This is an operation the military can handle.¡±


    Jayceon rose abruptly, heading toward the door, but Ellie stopped him. ¡°Where do you think you¡¯re going?¡±


    Frustration boiled over in Jayceon. He silently med Brenna for this, but out of consideration for Ethan, he had kept his mouth shut. Yet it was painfully clear that this entire situation was aimed at Brenna, so why had his son gotten dragged into it?


    He unleashed his anger on Brenna. ¡°Patrick is my son. I should be the one to save him! Miss Harper, it¡¯s because of you that he¡¯s in danger. But you¡¯re important to the military, so you can¡¯t risk your safety for him. If I, as Patrick¡¯s father, don¡¯t go either, what kind of man would I be?¡±


    Brenna felt displeased by Jayceon¡¯s fury. She had watched Patrick grow up, and she wouldn¡¯t let anything happen to him. She made a resolute decision. ¡°I¡¯m going. I can¡¯t just stand by while Patrick is in danger.¡±


    With that, she stood up and strode out. Ethan followed her without hesitation, and Thiago, along with Ellie, trailed behind. Together, they boarded the military helicopter.


    On the northwestern edge of Shirie, cloaked by the cover of night, a dozen camouged figures moved stealthily toward an abandoned chemical nt. Each man was armed and alert. Their leader, a tall, bearded man in his thirties, spoke in a rough, eager tone. ¡°I¡¯ve heard the Harper family¡¯s daughter is a real knockout. She is beautiful and has a great figure.¡±


    He pulled out his phone, showcasing a photo of Brenna delivering a lecture at Shirie University.


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    Two men beside him leaned in to look at the photo, chuckling. ¡°When that girl shows up, you can go first, Mr. Curtis. After you¡¯ve had your fun with her, the rest of us will take our turns.¡±


    Barr Curtisughed with smug satisfaction, envisioning himself with Brenna. He nodded, pleased with his subordinate¡¯s words. ¡°Make sure to record it. The boss wants a video. The more brutal, the better, and keep it long.¡±


    Eagerly, one of his people replied, ¡°We will ensure that everything is captured on camera.¡±


    Their crude words echoed through the night as they approached the entrance of the abandoned facility. But just as they crossed the threshold, a streak of light shot through the sky like a falling star, heading straight for them.


    Only when it was nearly upon them did they realize what the light was¡ªa missile.


    Their eyes widened in disbelief. They barely had time to scream ¡°run¡± before the explosion erupted, scattering them into a storm of bloody fragments.


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 Chapter 530

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    Out at sea, Jade was trying to reach the team stationed at the chemical nt, desperate to confirm whether Brenna had taken the bait and brought the ransom. Minutes ticked by, and that fool Barr was still not picking up her call.


    The bodyguard beside Jade frowned, his concern evident. ¡°Could something have gone wrong? Brenna has military connections. The army might have gotten involved.¡±


    Jade¡¯s confidence began to wane. She cast a grave look at the motionless Patrick. ¡°Throw him to the sea. We¡¯re leaving now.¡± Panic gnawed at her. If they didn¡¯t leave soon, it could be toote. If something had happened to Barr, it meant the military had seen through her scheme. Brenna could arrive at any moment.


    Jade had always believed that Brenna wouldn¡¯t dare endanger Patrick to hunt them down. But Brenna was anything but predictable. What if she did gamble everything? What if she was willing to sacrifice Patrick to eliminate them? After all, the military didn¡¯t operate like the police.


    The bodyguard moved, seized Patrick by the cor, and tossed him straight into the sea. As he watched the waves engulf Patrick¡¯s small figure, he walked away. Bound as he was, Patrick wouldn¡¯tst more than a few minutes in the water.


    The luxury yacht elerated, cutting through the waves as it ventured deeper into international waters.


    Momentster, the military team arrived. Five helicopters sliced through the sky, sweeping across the ocean, meticulously scanning every vessel within a hundred-mile radius.


    Onboard the helicopter, Brenna and the others kept their eyes fixed on the screen. Red dots flickered across the disy, but none of them were moving fast.


    ¡°This is peak fishing season,¡± the pilot exined. ¡°Most of those are fishing boats. They¡¯ll be out at sea for days, just drifting like that.¡±


    Everyone wore grave expressions. The weight of their fear hung heavily in the cabin. Each passing second made Patrick¡¯s situation more dire. Ellie was the most distressed. She couldn¡¯t look away from the screen. She clutched Thiago¡¯s hand, her fingers cold and mmy.


    Outside, the night pressed in like a wall. The wind howled, and waves crashed below. There was nothing but darkness in every direction. Ellie rested her head on Thiago¡¯s shoulder and anxiously asked, ¡°Will Patrick be okay?¡±


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    Thiago gently patted her. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Patrick has been with us since he was little. He¡¯s learned a lot of survival skills. He can swim, and he knows better than to provoke dangerous people. He¡¯ll be okay.¡± Though his voice was calm, the worry behind it ran deep. Patrick was more capable, more mature, and tougher than most kids his age. Still, he was only six. Out here, with the sea raging like this, even an adult might not survive long.


    Ethan nced at Brenna. She hadn¡¯t said much, but her stiff posture and somber expression spoke volumes. Her silence didn¡¯t mean she was any less worried.


    He reached for her hand and reassured her, ¡°We¡¯ll find him. He¡¯s going to be fine.¡±


    ¡°Suspicious target spotted.¡± A sharp voice crackled through the radio from another helicopter, followed by a string of coordinates.


    The pilot changed course at once and headed straight for the location. Momentster, a sleek, high-end yacht came into view. It was slicing through the waves, racing toward international waters.


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 Chapter 531

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    The helicopter¡¯s searchlight cut through the darkness and lit up the deck. More than 20 armed men were scattered across it, rifles in hand. The instant they spotted the military chopper, a wave of panic swept through their ranks.


    They knew that if the helicopter opened fire, they wouldn¡¯t stand a chance.


    Brenna snatched the mic wired to the chopper¡¯s loudspeaker and, in a sharp andmanding voice, said, ¡°This is Brenna! Where¡¯s Patrick? Hand him over right now!¡±


    For a moment, the men on the yacht hesitated. The helicopter hadn¡¯t fired, and that gave them a flicker of hope. Their fear dulled, reced by a creeping regret. Maybe they shouldn¡¯t have let the boy go. Without a hostage, they had nothing to bargain with now.


    But Jade had prepared them for this. She had given them clear instructions. They needed to kill Brenna, no matter what.


    Jade had already left. Before departing, she had promisedrge payouts to their families if they died. If they made it out alive, there would be an even bigger reward. They were mercenaries. They hadn¡¯t signed up expecting to survive. The presence of the military had shaken them, but not enough to make them back down.


    Their leader stepped forward with a megaphone in one hand and arge backpack slung over his shoulder. Then, he bellowed, ¡°Over here, Brenna! Bring the ransom down. Alone. The rest of you stay back! If anyone gets within 50 miles, the hostage dies!¡±


    Jayceon¡¯s gaze locked on the backpack. It wasrge; Patrick could be inside. ¡°No one make a move. Do exactly what they say,¡± he said. The chopper¡¯s side door was already open. Thedder dropped, swaying in the wind.


    Brenna didn¡¯t hesitate. Without a word, she stepped toward it.


    Ethan reached for her arm to stop her. ¡°I¡¯ll go instead.¡±


    Brenna met his eyes. ¡°If you go, they¡¯ll kill him. These men have no conscience. They don¡¯t care who they hurt. I can¡¯t risk Patrick¡¯s life.¡±


    Jayceon gave a firm nod. For all the chaos, he was pleased with Brenna¡¯s decision. She never wavered, not even with danger waiting below. She had a deep sense of duty and refused to leave Patrick behind.


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    He said to Ethan, ¡°Just listen to her.¡±


    Ethan shot him a cold look, displeased with his decision. ¡°You won¡¯t risk your son, and I won¡¯t risk my woman.¡±


    Then, he turned to Brenna. ¡°I¡¯m going down with you. That¡¯s final.¡±


    From below, another shout rose up from the mercenaries. ¡°No weapons! If we see even one, the kid dies!¡±


    A single gunshot rang out and cracked beside the backpack. It was a warning that they weren¡¯t bluffing.


    The military was not fazed. ¡°Hurt the hostage, and we¡¯ll blow you to hell!¡±


    With that, the military fired into the water, a thunderous burst meant to rattle nerves.


    Ethan grabbed the mic and called out, ¡°This is Ethan, Brenna¡¯s fianc¨¦. I¡¯m going down with her!¡±


    On the yacht, the mercenary leader cracked a sly grin. So this was the man Jade had her eye on. And now, he wanted to walk straight into their hands? Interesting.


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 Chapter 532

    ?Chapter 532:


    The leader turned to his men. After a short exchange, he stepped forward and yelled back, ¡°Fine. Come down.¡±


    Two hostages were better than one. And Ethan might just be their golden ticket to freedom.


    As soon as theynded, Brenna and Ethan were surrounded. A ring of mercenaries closed in, rifles aimed straight at their heads.


    The leader stepped forward, raised a megaphone, and barked at the chopper, ¡°Drop the money and get out of here!¡±


    His voice dripped with arrogance. Then, heughed and looked Brenna up and down in front of Ethan. ¡°Now this one is a real beauty. I hit the jackpot!¡±


    A few thick-armed men moved toward Brenna. Clearly, they didn¡¯t see her or Ethan as a threat. One of them even stretched out a hand toward Brenna¡¯s face.


    Before the person couldy a finger on her, there was a sharp crack.


    Ethan had grabbed his wrist and snapped it.


    The helicopter¡¯s roar swallowed the man¡¯s scream.


    Above them, the aircraft hovered low over the gleaming deck of the yacht. A single shot rang out. The mercenary who had reached for Brenna dropped to the ground, a bullet lodged in his skull.


    ¡°No signs of life detected inside the backpack,¡± came the report through Brenna¡¯s earpiece from the military.


    Tears welled up in Brenna¡¯s eyes, and her heart felt like it had been cracked open. Was Patrick really dead?


    She stared at the ck backpack, her thoughts spiraling. She pictured his final moments and felt a surge of fury rise inside her. Every part of her wanted revenge.


    ¡°Where is he?¡± she asked, her voice low and tight with emotion. Her hands curled into fists until her knuckles turned white. ¡°I want to see Patrick.¡±


    If these people had killed him, she would make sure they would drown in their own blood.


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    But even in her rage, she refused to believe Patrick was gone, not until she saw his dead body with her own eyes.


    The military rarely made mistakes. She knew that. Still, her thoughts shed with what she wanted to believe. She locked her eyes on the backpack, refusing to look away. Patrick had to be alive.


    Ethan, on the other hand, remained calm. He observed the backpack. It looked heavy, but the way the fabric bulged, sharp and uneven, was odd. If Patrick were inside, the shape should¡¯ve been softer.


    A thought tugged at him, but he couldn¡¯t be sure.


    He locked his gaze onto the leader. ¡°Cut the crap. The hundred million is right here. Let me see the boy. Try anything, and you¡¯ll be shot.¡±


    Right on cue, gunfire thundered down from the chopper above. Bullets riddled the empty stretch of deck. The message was clear. Ethan was not bluffing.


    Brenna flinched at the sound, her heart hammering against her chest. She couldn¡¯t shake the fear that the backpack held nothing but a lifeless body.


    ¡°Hurry up!¡± she snapped, her voice cracking with desperation.


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 Chapter 533

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    The mercenaries were not stupid. They weren¡¯t nning on walking away alive. Their job was to stall for time. Every second they stood there was one more second for Jade to get farther away.


    The leader jabbed his gun toward the backpack and threatened, ¡°One more word, and I¡¯ll shoot the kid!¡±


    Brenna¡¯s earpiece crackled with another update from the military. ¡°No signs of life detected in the bag. No signs of life detected. Prepare for extraction.¡±


    ¡°Open it!¡± Brenna said. In her mind, Patrick was already gone. Tears poured down her face, blurring her vision. She lunged forward, kicked the nearest mercenary to the ground, and with one swift motion, snapped his neck.


    The others froze, stunned. None of them had expected her to be that lethal. Her movements were clean. That kind of precision only came from real training.


    Gunfire split the air again. From above, sniper rounds tore through the deck, and mercenaries dropped one after another.


    The rest panicked and turned their guns on Brenna. But Ethan had prepared for that. He caught Brenna by the wrist and yanked her with him. They then dashed to the edge of the deck and dove into the sea. From the air, the military held control. The mercenaries wanted to kill Brenna, but she wasn¡¯t alone. There was no chance the military would let anything happen to her.


    Every remaining mercenary had a sniper¡¯s crosshair locked on them. One wrong move, and they were dead.


    With a loud ssh, Brenna and Ethan hit the water. Secondster, the sound of automatic fire erupted from above. The rest of the mercenaries didn¡¯t stand a chance. One by one, they fell, gunned down without mercy.


    When Brenna and Ethan hauled themselves back onto the yacht, the military had already unzipped the backpack. It was filled with nothing but stones.


    Brenna¡¯s knees buckled, and she nearly fell. Her chest rose and fell unevenly, and she clutched at the railing for support.


    ¡°If Patrick isn¡¯t here, where could he be?¡± The backpack did not contain Patrick¡¯s dead body, but that didn¡¯t ease Brennapletely. The unknown wed at her. Dread settled deep in her gut.


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    Her mind raced with fear. Was Patrick hurt? Was he alone? Was he still alive?


    ¡°Check for survivors!¡± Braeden¡¯s voice rang out across the deck, snapping the team into motion.


    Several soldiers sprang into action and swept the deck. A momentter, they found two mercenaries who were still alive.


    Ellie, Jayceon, Thiago, and a few others closed in around one of them. Jayceon demanded, ¡°Where¡¯s the boy?¡±


    The man didn¡¯t speak at first. His chest heaved with the effort to stay conscious. Then, with what little strength he had left, he raised a shaking hand and pointed toward the sea. ¡°We threw him into the sea¡­¡±


    The sliver of hope everyone had been clinging to disappeared. Silence gripped the deck.


    Out there, in the cold, endless sea, even the strongest adult would struggle to survive. And Patrick¡­ He was just a child.


    Jayceon rallied every contact he could, dispatching a fleet of luxury yachts to scour the dark, endless sea for the missing child. The entire Russell Corporation staff was mobilized overnight, transforming the ocean into a frantic search grid.


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 Chapter 534

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    Ethan, too, pulled every string at his disposal. He sent out his personal yacht and recruited nearby fishing vessels,bing the waters in a near-impossible hunt.


    By dawn, sunlight danced across the waves, scattering shimmering reflections. But no one paused to admire the beauty; they were consumed by despair.


    A bright, kind, precious child¡ªvanished without a trace? Not even a body to mourn?


    Brenna refused to ept it, as did everyone else.


    Around midday, Ellie¡¯s phone rang. She hadn¡¯t had a sip of water since the ordeal, her face pale, lips chapped, her mind haunted by visions of Patrick¡¯s small frame being imed by the sea.


    An unknown number shed on her screen.


    After a brief pause, she picked up.


    ¡°Mommy¡­¡±


    The soft, unmistakable voice on the other end brought tears streaming down Ellie¡¯s face. Patrick¡¯s voice was faint but clear. ¡°It¡¯s Patrick!¡± Ellie eximed.


    Her voice drew the attention of everyone nearby.


    ¡°Patrick, thank God you¡¯re okay! Where are you?¡± Ellie asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m in the hospital,¡± Patrick answered, his voice weak but steady.


    A momentter, a man¡¯s voice, weathered and middle-aged, echoed.


    ¡°Hi, I¡¯m a fisherman from Plomond. Last night, I was out at sea and found the boy floating, unconscious. I rushed him to the hospital, and he only woke up a short while ago. I knew his family must be worried, so I asked him to give his family a call. He¡¯s weak now, with some fluid in his lungs, but he¡¯s going to be fine¡­¡±


    When the family reached the hospital, Patrick was still in bed, receiving an IV drip.


    Jayceon, overwhelmed with gratitude, handed the fisherman a check for a hundred thousand as a heartfelt thank-you.


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    After bidding farewell to the fisherman in the hospital corridor, Jayceon turned and saw Brenna standing nearby. Her face was softened by relief, but Jayceon¡¯s expression hardened as he approached her. His eyes were cold, brimming with usation. ¡°What happened to Patrick is entirely your fault.¡±


    Patrick, just six years old, had been lost at sea for hours. If he hadn¡¯t been trained in survival skills, if he hadn¡¯t been sharp enough to stay calm and free himself from the ropes in secret after waking on the boat, he would likely be dead now.


    Jayceon¡¯s chest tightened at the thought of Patrick¡¯s small wrists, marked by rope burns. No child should endure such trauma.


    He said to Brenna, ¡°If you hadn¡¯t made enemies, they wouldn¡¯t have gone after Patrick. From now on, you should stay away from my son and Ellie. I won¡¯t let your enemiese for my son again.¡±


    Brenna felt a wave of guilt, knowing she had endangered Patrick. Unable to refute Jayceon¡¯s words, she stayed silent, absorbing his me.


    Jayceon¡¯s harsh words continued, each one cutting deeper. Brenna held back her frustration, epting his criticism without protest.


    Just then, Ethan walked over and cut through Jayceon¡¯s tirade. ¡°You¡¯re mistaken. This isn¡¯t Brenna¡¯s fault. You were the one who didn¡¯t protect your son well. How dare you pin this on Brenna?¡±


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    Though Ethan and Jayceon were close friends, they had shed before, even physically, in their younger days. As adults, they had grown more level-headed, avoiding fights for years.


    Jayceon stood his ground. ¡°Those kidnappers were after Brenna. They knew Patrick mattered to her. Brenna is so well-protected, with military-grade security. They couldn¡¯t touch her, so they targeted Patrick to get to her. Can you honestly say this has nothing to do with her?¡±


    Ethan scoffed, visibly irritated. ¡°Jayceon, you¡¯re Patrick¡¯s father. You¡¯re always too caught up in your business deals. When have you ever truly looked after your son? At your grandmother¡¯s birthday, you left him there alone, letting your family bully him. And you call yourself a responsible father? You¡¯ve got wealth and influence. Couldn¡¯t you have at least hired a bodyguard for him? But you didn¡¯t. And now, when something goes wrong, you¡¯re quick to me others? Where¡¯s your ountability?¡±


    Brenna nced at Ethan, who was defending her with such conviction, and a subtle, appreciative smile crossed her lips. Every point he made echoed what she had been thinking.


    ¡°Exactly. And I¡¯m the one who taught Patrick how to survive at sea,¡± she said.


    Displeased with Jayceon¡¯s attempt to dodge responsibility, Ethan shook his head. ¡°Honestly, it¡¯s no surprise Ellie wants nothing to do with you. And now that I think about it, I¡¯m done with you, too.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not the same person I used to know.¡± Jayceon¡¯s eyes zed with frustration as he swung his fist at the wall. He pointed at Ethan, his voice sharp and using. ¡°Have youpletely lost your sense of what¡¯s right and wrong? Tell me¡ªam I wrong to say that Patrick got dragged into this mess because of her?¡±


    The air thickened with Jayceon¡¯s disappointment, his eyes reflecting a storm of betrayal. It seemed to him that ever since Ethan had fallen head over heels for Brenna, he had been blinded, unable to see the truth right in front of him. He believed Ethan was blindly defending Brenna.


    As Jayceon seethed, a cold realization dawned on Ethan. He finally saw Jayceon for what he truly was¡ªa man who dodged ountability and found it easier to pin the me on a woman than face his own faults.


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    After two decades of friendship, Ethan and Jayceon now stood on opposite sides of a rift.


    Ethan¡¯s response was frosty, his words slicing through the tension. ¡°You¡¯re absolutely wrong, Jayceon. If Patrick had been with Brenna at the time, then sure, she¡¯d share the me. But he was in the restroom alone at that time. No one was watching over him. We¡¯re all shaken over what happened; no one wanted this, least of all Brenna. So why are you so dead set on ming her? Do you honestly think she wanted Patrick to get hurt?¡±


    He took a breath, disappointment tightening his jaw. ¡°I can¡¯t believe this is who you are now. I don¡¯t even recognize you. Come on, Brenna. Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Without looking back, Ethan stepped out of the hospital with Brenna, and together, they found a cozy spot down the street to grab a quick meal.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about Jayceon,¡± Ethan said, his voice tinged with finality. ¡°He has shown his true colors. I won¡¯t associate with someone like him anymore.¡±


    He had already made up his mind; the paths he and Jayceon were on had diverged irreparably. It was time for them to part ways.


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 Chapter 536

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    Brenna responded with a knowing nod, her voice tinged with disdain. ¡°I¡¯ve never been fond of him.¡±


    Her gaze dropped, a pensive shadow falling over her face. The recent chaos had been a wake-up call; she believed it was time to get Patrick some kind of tracker. He also needed something that could help him defend himself if needed.


    At the Harper family estate, Rosie had made an impromptu return from the office to retrieve a forgotten document. As she stepped off the elevator, she noticed a team of technicians busily upgrading the household¡¯s surveince system.


    ¡°Is there an issue with the security?¡± she inquired casually, eyeing the flurry of activity.


    One of the technicians replied, ¡°No. We¡¯re just installing the newest models, equipped with AI that automatically recognizes any non-family members. It¡¯s pretty advanced; it sends an immediate alert if it detects any unauthorized person attempting theft or harm.¡±


    Rosie nodded. She turned on her heel and walked away without another nce. With the third-floor hallway deserted¡ªno servants in sight and the surveince system temporarily disabled¡ªan idea took root in her mind. Her steps quickened with purpose as she headed straight for Brenna¡¯s room.


    As she rifled through Brenna¡¯s desk, her fingers stumbled upon an invitation to a business conference, nestled within the confines of a drawer.


    Rosie scooped up the invitation with a flick of her wrist, her eyes shing with disdain as she scanned the elegant script. With a scoff, she muttered under her breath, her voice dripping with contempt, ¡°Brenna is invited to speak at a prestigious business conference? Does she truly believe she¡¯s some titan of finance?¡±


    A wave of indignation washed over her. She was no novice in the business realm, having steered severalpanies through stormy times with her seasoned expertise in finance and management. Why wasn¡¯t she the one being invited?


    In her mind, anyone from the venerable Harper lineage¡ªbe it Shepard, Ernst, or even Dalton, the newly appointed CEO of the Harper Group¡ªfar surpassed Brenna in credentials and rightful im to such an honor.


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    Yet, it was Brenna, who merely ran a modest financial studio, who had gotten invited. The urge to shred the invitation gnawed at Rosie. After several begrudging nces, she restrained herself and ced the invitation back down.


    She snapped a photo of the invitation with her phone. After that, she scoured the rest of the contents but found nothing more of consequence. With a sigh, she ced the invitation back in its ce and retreated to her room.


    She then sent the photo to Jade, her lips curling into a sneer.


    Just yesterday, Jade had told her about attending this very conference, a grand assembly of global economic titans. How could Brenna be on the same level as those important figures?


    The thought alone made Rosie¡¯s stomach churn with envy. Her fists clenched beneath the table as resentment for Brenna simmered inside her.


    Later that evening, Brenna arrived home earlier than usual and joined the family for dinner. Unaware of the recent incident involving Patrick, the Harper family chatted cheerfully over their meal, the atmosphere light.


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 Chapter 537

    ?Chapter 537:


    Between bites of food, Giselle nced at Brenna and asked, ¡°What¡¯s your impression of the grad students at Shirie University?¡±


    Brenna set her fork down gently and leaned forward, her tone thoughtful. ¡°They¡¯re better than I expected. I worried the material might be tooplex for them, but they werepletely engaged. Even after ss, they¡¯ve been flooding the group chat with questions.¡± She smiled slightly. ¡°There are a few standouts. I¡¯m considering inviting them to intern at my studio, maybe even grooming one or two for long-term roles.¡±


    Shepard gave a nod of approval, setting his wine ss down with a soft clink. ¡°Your team is solid. I¡¯ve met Tommy and Joe. With their skillsets, they¡¯d easily qualify as department heads at the Harper Group.¡±


    Then, with a contemtive nce toward Brenna, he added, ¡°Honestly, I¡¯m thinking of having your brother delegate some of our core R&D projects to your studio.¡±


    Brenna seemed to be in a good mood, her smile not wavering. ¡°It¡¯ll have to wait. I¡¯ve got a project with the military on my te right now. Once that¡¯s out of the way, we¡¯ll talk.¡±


    Shepard acknowledged her point with a knowing nod. Aware that matters involving the military were often confidential, he didn¡¯t ask further about the matter.


    However, Rosie saw things through a different lens. While she couldn¡¯t deny Brenna¡¯s talent, she still found it hard to believe that Brenna had made waves big enough to attract the military¡¯s attention. In her mind, military partnerships weren¡¯t handed out lightly; they worked with geniuses, people who were constantly pushing the boundaries of science and technology. And Brenna? What could she possibly contribute to the military?


    With a raised eyebrow and a curious tilt of her head, she said, ¡°So, Brenna¡­ What kind of project are you doing for the military?¡±


    Before Brenna could respond, Dalton interjected with a scornful chuckle, his gaze dripping with sarcasm as he looked at Rosie.


    ¡°Do you really believe you, a mere civilian, can get information about a military project?¡±


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    Rosie shifted ufortably in her seat. She stole a furtive nce at the rest of the Harper family. Shepard, ever the stoic, kept his expression unreadable, though she suspected he silently agreed with Dalton. He probably thought she was out of her league discussing Brenna¡¯s endeavors. She was certain he was privy to whatever covert operations Brenna was involved in.


    The notion that her entire family was in on Brenna¡¯s secretive military project yet chose to keep her in the dark gnawed at her.


    She also noticed Giselle shing a faint smile that seemed to ridicule her curiosity.


    Just then, Ernst said, ¡°Don¡¯t pry. If we were meant to know, Brenna would have told us a long time ago.¡±


    Having been marginalized before, Rosie had learned to conform to the Harper family¡¯s dynamics, seldom challenging them. Masking her disappointment with a strained smile, she murmured, ¡°Right, I shouldn¡¯t have asked.¡±


    Nheless, she couldn¡¯t help but sneak peeks at Brenna, hoping against hope that she might share details of her current project. Minutes dragged by, and Brenna continued to dine with her usualposed and elegant demeanor, not saying a word.


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 Chapter 538

    ?Chapter 538:


    The family¡¯s overt concern for Brenna¡¯s ventures was evident. Shepard even proposed reallocating the Harper Group¡¯s assets to support her. Amidst this, Rosie¡¯s growing displeasure went unnoticed, leaving her feeling deeply frustrated.


    At the military residentialplex, Ethan steered his opulent Rolls-Royce to a stop at the gate, his expression one of resignation.


    With a practiced hand, he adjusted his silk tie in the reflection of the rearview mirror, meticulously checking his appearance. Carefully, he gathered a bouquet of delicate blue lisianthus and several neatly wrapped paper bags from the passenger seat before stepping out.


    The Rolls-Royce, with its imposing presence and gleaming finish, was a rare sight at theplex. Ethan¡¯s family generally shunned such ostentatious disys of wealth,pelling him to reserve the car for special asions only. Yet today¡­


    At Elsa¡¯s insistent request, he had driven the luxury vehicle over, puzzled by her unusual demands for both the car and an assortment of gifts.


    A few days ago, he had upset Elsa during Amy¡¯s birthday celebration, and upon returning home, he had further angered her. He had been contemting how to make amends.


    Now, with a chance to mend fences handed to him, he was eager to seize it, despite finding the situation bewildering.


    His parents, typically indifferent to such gestures, had expressed a specific desire for flowers and sweets today. To ensure he chose appropriately, Ethan had personally visited a local florist, engaging closely with the staff to select the perfect lisianthus.


    The desserts posed a greater challenge. Uncertain of his parents¡¯ preferences, he had relied on the rmendations of the dessert shop staff, choosing an array of treats that leaned toward the less sugary¡ªmindful of what might appeal to an older pte. His selections werevish: a hundred-dor assortment of gourmet cookies, slices of rich cake, decadent chocte cookies, and a variety of desserts designed to tantalize the taste buds with unfamiliar vors.


    With everything in hand, Ethan approached the house. He paused momentarily at the doorway, gathering his thoughts before calling out loudly, ¡°Mom, Dad, I¡¯m back.¡±


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    Usually, his parents wouldn¡¯te out to greet him, but today, Elsa appeared at the door, her face beaming with a smile¡ªso unlike her usual exasperated expression when she saw him.


    Elsa was adorned in a dress that draped elegantly around her.


    ¡°Mom, what¡¯s the asion today? And that dress! You look absolutely stunning; takes ten years off, easily,¡± Ethan said, his words dripping with genuine admiration and a hint of yful charm.


    When Ethan stepped inside, his gaze fell upon a young woman sitting by the living room sofa. She wore a modest beige dress, her appearance enhanced by subtle makeup and a touch of lipstick, exuding a quiet beauty.


    She offered Ethan a polite smile, her voice soft yet clear. ¡°Nice to meet you, Mr. Mitchell.¡±


    Ethan noticed the admiration and surprise in her eyes.


    His instinctual smile faded into a more guarded, cool expression. ¡°Hi,¡± he responded, his tone clipped.


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 Chapter 539

    ?Chapter 539:


    With a nce at the bouquet of flowers and the shopping bags he carried, he moved toward the coffee table to unload his burdens. He then handed the flowers to Elsa.


    ¡°These are for you, Mom.¡±


    He was clear in dering the flowers were meant for Elsa, anxious to prevent any potential misunderstanding by the young woman who might assume the flowers were intended for her.


    The young woman¡¯s smile waned as realization dawned, and with a subtle shift in her demeanor, she awkwardly withdrew her outstretched hand.


    Elsa, well-versed in navigating Ethan¡¯s often brusque temperament, chuckled lightly to dissipate the growing tension.


    ¡°Allow me to make introductions. Minna, this is Ethan, my son. He tends to keep his distance with most people, so try not to feel offended by it.¡±


    She then grabbed Ethan¡¯s wrist to stop him from leaving and continued,


    ¡°And this is Minna Davies, Ivy Davies¡¯ daughter from the performance troupe.¡±


    Elsa offered no further details, quickly guiding both to their seats. She passed the bouquet to Minna. She knew that if Ethan had even the slightest inkling he was being set up for a blind date, he would have bolted.


    Ethan maintained a frosty fa?ade, his gaze never meeting Minna¡¯s. The indignation of being deceived by his mother simmered within him; had he been aware of her true intentions, he would have outright refused toe.


    He believed he needed to leave immediately. Thest thing he needed was for Brenna to discover he had been coerced into a blind date. How would he ever be able to exin the situation to her?


    Ethan¡¯s displeasure with Elsa¡¯s arrangements was palpable, yet he maintained a stoic silence, his eyes darting around for an opportunity to leave.


    Minna, perceptive as ever, couldn¡¯t help but notice Ethan¡¯s icy demeanor. The atmosphere grew tense, hanging heavy between them. However, her gaze drifted to the opulent Rolls-Royce parked at the gate, then back to Ethan¡¯s striking figure, sparking a flutter of excitement in her heart.


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    Her initial apprehension melted away, reced by a growing curiosity and a hint of admiration. It seemed logical to her that their first encounter would be marked by a certain coolness; after all, overeagerness among strangers was more rming than appealing.


    Minna¡¯s smile became a permanent fixture, her eyes alight with intrigue as she watched Ethan, feeling a surge of affection for him. Ethan, on the other hand, was practically praying for an interruption, desperate for any excuse to leave.


    Luckily, he was busy as a CEO, and his phone soon rang. Concealing his inner delight, he retrieved his phone from his jacket pocket and stood up. ¡°Mom, I need to take this call.¡±


    Elsa, caught in the delicate position of both the hostess and matchmaker, gave a reluctant nod, unable to refuse Ethan outright. Her eyes followed him as he strode into the yard for more privacy.


    The moment the call connected, Ernst¡¯s voice rumbled through the line. ¡°Got time for a drink? Jayceon¡¯s in a hell of a mood. Ellie tore into him and then kicked him out.¡±


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    Ethan stiffened slightly, reluctant to spend an evening babysitting Jayceon¡¯s wounded pride, but the idea of enduring the blind date was even worse. Without missing a beat, he replied, ¡°Yeah, sure. I¡¯ll head over now. We can¡¯t afford to let this deal slip through our fingers.¡± He made sure his voice carried, ensuring Elsa and Minna overheard him, proving to them that he wasn¡¯t trying to escape but had work matters to attend to.


    As he ended the call, a weight seemed to lift off his shoulders. Finally, he had the perfect excuse to leave, one that wouldn¡¯t make Elsa furious or make Minna feel rejected.


    Across the room, Elsa caught hisst few words, her face tightening in disapproval. She crossed her arms and said pointedly, ¡°There¡¯s always another deal waiting. But¡­¡±


    ¡°You only get one chance to spend time with family. It¡¯s Minna¡¯s first visit here. Isn¡¯t it rude to just leave now?¡±


    Ethan, feigning ignorance of the underlying meaning of her words, responded, ¡°Mom, this deal has been in the pipeline for months. There are heavyweights in the running, undercutting our bids. Yet, the partner acknowledges our superior quality and is open to another discussion. If I skip out tonight, the deal might as well be gone. Go ahead and have dinner without me; I really need to handle this.¡± Without waiting for Elsa¡¯s approval, Ethan excused himself and hurried out the door.


    Minna watched Ethan get into the luxury car and leave, her heart fluttering. What could Elsa possibly say now?


    Elsa silently berated Ethan, convinced of his indifference towards Minna. She knew his hearty elsewhere, with Brenna. If not, he wouldn¡¯t have scrambled so eagerly for an excuse to leave.


    Despite the storm of anger brewing within her, Elsa masked it expertly, offering Minna an apologetic smile. ¡°Hispany demands so much of his time. Please, don¡¯t take it to heart. I¡¯ll set up another meeting soon. Next time, I will let him treat you to a meal.¡±


    Minna responded with a reassuring grace, a smile softening her features as she gently dismissed Elsa¡¯s concerns, saying, ¡°Oh, please don¡¯t worry about it. Let him focus on his work. He¡¯s not like me, idly passing time at the office by scrolling through my phone. He¡¯s the type who probably wishes there were forty-eight hours in a day.¡±


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    Observing Minna¡¯s demeanor, Elsa noted her satisfaction with Ethan. It was expected; after all, no woman would easily pass up an opportunity to be with someone like Ethan. With his blend of wealth, striking looks, and a reputable family, Ethan was a highly eligible bachelor.


    The more Elsa observed Minna, the more she liked her. Minna exuded a serene and promising aura, starkly contrasting with Brenna¡¯s ostentatious ir.


    Elsa mused to herself that a woman needed a touch of reserve; being too capable wasn¡¯t good for a woman. The Harper family didn¡¯t require a daughter-inw who was overlypetent.


    At the Imperial Bar, Ethan walked into the private room, flinging his suit jacket onto the sofa. He copsed into the plush cushions with a sigh of relief and promptly seized a ss of wine.


    The coffee table before Jayceon was a chaotic sea of empty sses, and he sat slumped behind it, visibly intoxicated. His expression was etched with torment, his eyes bloodshot, hinting at tears shed or stifled. Ethan, sitting across from him, seemed oblivious to Jayceon¡¯s distress, his disdain for him barely concealed. In his eyes, Jayceon had crossed a line by unfairly pinning Patrick¡¯s ident on Brenna, and he deserved no sympathy.


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    Message from Noah: Good night dear readers. God loves you and Noah whishes you all the best. ( ? ? ¨C ) ?


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 Chapter 541

    ?Chapter 541:


    Ernst, catching the undercurrents of tension between Ethan and Jayceon, chose not to say anything about it. Peacemaking was not on his agenda tonight, especially not with more pressing issues at hand. His gaze hardened as he turned to Ethan, a hint of anger in his voice.


    ¡°I need to talk to you about something, Ethan. Why did your mom call my Uncle Ableson out of the blue, inquiring if Audrey would consider marrying you?¡±


    Ethan¡¯s world seemed to halt, the question mming into him with the force of a revtion. ¡°What did you just say?¡±


    His mind raced, piecing together the implications of Elsa¡¯s behind-the-scenes maneuvers. Not only had she sprung a blind date on him, but she had also asked if Audrey would marry him?


    What on earth was she trying to do? Was she holding a grudge against Brenna because of the incident at Amy¡¯s birthday party?


    ¡°I honestly have no clue,¡± Ethan responded, the weight of the revtion sinking in. He knew he had to confront Elsa about this, to draw clear boundaries about her interference in his personal decisions. He was going to hold his ground on matters of the heart no matter what, and he couldn¡¯t ignore the potential fallout from Elsa¡¯s unwarranted interventions.


    Ernst knew Ethan well. From their shared childhood escapades to navigating the trials of adulthood, he had consistently observed Ethan¡¯s steadfast responsibility and his usual indifference to romantic entanglements. Thus, Ethan¡¯s deep, evident feelings for Brenna struck him as nothing but sincere.


    He believed Ethan was not the sort to juggle two hearts at once. Moreover, Ethan¡¯s reaction suggested he had been unaware of the matter.


    ¡°What do you n to do now?¡± Ernst inquired, his voice a low hum of concern.


    Ethan felt resigned. Not only had he secretly met another woman behind Brenna¡¯s back, but Elsa had also reached out to the Harper family to ask if Audrey wanted to marry him. This was clearly bad.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± he said, his voice barely above a whisper. ¡°I really didn¡¯t know any of this was happening. Please, don¡¯t tell Brenna yet; I will handle this soon.¡±


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    He chose his words carefully, omitting any mention of Elsa¡¯s independent moves to preserve her reputation.


    Ernst nodded, understanding the delicate bnce of the situation. ¡°Brenna¡¯s in the dark for now, but our parents are in the loop, and let¡¯s just say they¡¯re less than thrilled about this. I can¡¯t guarantee what they¡¯ll do.¡±


    The seriousness of his predicament was not lost on Ethan. Elsa¡¯s covert actions threatened to unravel everything he held dear. What if Brenna found out about the matter and wanted to break up with him? He was worried. Even when faced with billion-dor deals, he had never been this anxious.


    Was Elsa waiting for Brenna to apologize to her?


    Would Brenna, with her personality, ever bow her head and apologize? Besides, Brenna hadn¡¯t actually done anything wrong. When she had reached out to the military, she hadn¡¯t even mentioned Elsa by name. The whole thing was a mess born out of coincidence and misunderstanding.


    Ethan had patiently exined the truth to Elsa more times than he could count, but she refused to budge. In her mind, Brenna had disrespected her, and now, she was dead set against Brenna and him being together, so much so that she had even started setting him up with someone else without his permission.


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 Chapter 542

    ?Chapter 542:


    Ethan, burdened by the weight of his thoughts, sighed. ¡°This is gettingplicated.¡±


    Throughout his career, Ethan had faced countless adversaries in the cutthroat world of business with ease, yet navigating the treacherous waters of family dynamics was a challenge to him.


    Ernst wasn¡¯t good at dealing with family issues either. He took a sip of his drink and suggested, ¡°Why don¡¯t you arrange a meal with Brenna and your mom?¡±


    Ethan nodded, finding some merit in the idea. He was just worried that Brenna might not be so easy to convince. ¡°Can you gauge Brenna¡¯s attitude for me? See if she¡¯s willing to say something nice to my mom?¡± He wasn¡¯t worried about Brenna and Elsa refusing to dine together. If Elsa could trick him into returning to the militarypound, he could certainly trick Elsa out for a meal.


    Feeling slightly better, he took out his phone and sent a message to Brenna.


    ¡°Dinner together tomorrow night?¡±


    Brenna had just finished dinner and was heading upstairs, chatting casually with Giselle at the elevator. Giselle seemed to have something to say but couldn¡¯t find the right words, eventually mumbling something about tomorrow¡¯s afternoon lecture.


    Brenna didn¡¯t suspect anything and shared her ns.


    When her phone vibrated with a new message, Brenna nced down to see Ethan¡¯s name light up her screen. Given Ethan¡¯s deft handling of the recent debacle with Patrick, she felt somewhatpelled to ept his dinner invitation.


    ¡°Sure, where do you have in mind?¡± she replied.


    ¡°How about Starlight Splendor?¡± Ethan texted back.


    That ce was an upscale gem Ethan had frequented a few times. Not only was the cuisine top-notch, but the atmosphere was also exceptionally cozy,plete with private dining rooms.


    ¡°Sounds perfect. Let¡¯s meet at the south gate of Shirie University at six tomorrow evening,¡± Brenna replied.


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    Ethan wasted no time and promptly phoned Elsa to ask her to have dinner with him tomorrow. To his surprise, Elsa took the news of his earlier departure in stride and agreed to the arrangements without a hint of displeasure.


    A wave of relief washed over Ethan. It felt as if he had untangled aplex knot at work, and his spirits soared.


    He remained blissfully unaware of the intricate ns Elsa was crafting behind the scenes.


    The following afternoon, Brenna wrapped up her lunch early and had Tommy take her to Shirie University. With Tommy carrying a meticulously crafted car model in a box and Brenna slinging a backpack over her shoulder, they blended seamlessly into the campus crowd. As they meandered along the tree-dotted pathways, they exchanged casual nods with the friendly faces of numerous undergraduates.


    As Brenna rounded a familiar bend in the path, her eyes instantly found a familiar figure¡ªElsa. The memory of theirst unfortunate meeting shed through her mind, a reminder that she still owed Elsa an apology. Eager to make amends, Brenna walked over, her face breaking into a warm, tentative smile. ¡°Good afternoon, Mrs. Mitchell,¡± she said.


    Elsa, having noticed Brenna from afar just now, kept her expression cool. ¡°We need to talk.¡±


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 Chapter 543

    ?Chapter 543:


    They stepped aside, under the sprawling branches of an old ne tree, and Tommy waited for Brenna a few steps away.


    Drawing a deep breath, Brenna began, her voice tinged with genuine remorse. ¡°Mrs. Mitchell, about the misunderstanding at the Russell family¡¯s party, I¡¯m truly sorry. I didn¡¯t know you would be there that day. I only reached out to Braeden for help; I never meant for you to get caught up in it. It was careless of me, and I¡¯m genuinely sorry.¡±


    Elsa let out a coldugh, her eyes sweeping over Brenna with a critical gaze. Brenna, standing there with her delicate features and calm poise, was undeniably beautiful. She had already achieved so much, earning the qualifications to lecture at the prestigious Shirie University, a level few could even dream of reaching at her age. Elsa had to admit, Brenna was outstanding. Even Braeden, along with several high-ranking military officials, seemed to regard her with respect.


    Yet, precisely because of that excellence, Elsa didn¡¯t want her to be Ethan¡¯s wife.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine,¡± Elsa responded, her tone polished and polite, hiding her true feelings beneath a practiced smile. Here at Shirie University, with so many watching, she wouldn¡¯t openly make things difficult for Brenna. But the words she spoke were harsh. ¡°I just don¡¯t believe you and Ethan are a good match. I¡¯ve introduced him to someone else recently. They¡¯ve already met, and they seem quite taken with each other. I expect Ethan will end things with you soon.¡±


    Brenna waspletely taken aback, her heart skipping a beat at such unexpected words. Justst night, Ethan had invited her to dinner today. This abrupt turn of events couldn¡¯t possibly be his idea. It had to be Elsa, acting on her own. She was clearly still upset about what had happened at Amy¡¯s birthday party.


    Brenna had never aimed to tter Ethan¡¯s entire family; her goal was merely to keep things amicable. She had never wanted everyone in the Mitchell family to like her. It didn¡¯t take long for her to sense that Elsa didn¡¯t just dislike her; she probably loathed her. Elsa spoke with a smile, but her words were cutting, prompting Brenna to withdraw her friendly demeanor and revert to her usual aloofness.


    ¡°Mrs. Mitchell,¡± Brenna said, her voice calm but firm. ¡°I really don¡¯t think it¡¯s your ce to interfere in my rtionship with Ethan. Yes, I may have unknowingly offended you previously, but for that, I have sincerely apologized. It was never my intention.¡±


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    Her gaze locked with Elsa¡¯s, unwavering and resolute. ¡°To hold such a grudge over that, to use it as ammunition against Ethan and me, seems rather petty, don¡¯t you think?¡± Brenna stared at Elsa, standing her ground. She wasn¡¯t about to curry favor with someone who didn¡¯t even like her. If Elsa didn¡¯t approve of her rtionship with Ethan, then so be it. Winning over her boyfriend¡¯s family wasn¡¯t her mission. After all, she was going to marry Ethan, not his family.


    Elsa, maintaining her poise, leveled a smile at Brenna. ¡°You¡¯ve got spirit, I¡¯ll give you that. And I do admire it, in a way. But you¡¯re not the right woman for Ethan. It¡¯d be better if you took the initiative to end things with Ethan.¡±


    Her suggestion, wrapped in the tone of a well-meaning advisor, was anything but benign. She knew all too well that Ethan would cling to Brenna unless she pushed him away first.


    Brenna¡¯s response was swift and unwavering. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I genuinely believe Ethan is a wonderful person, and I have no intention of breaking up with him¡ªnot anytime soon, anyway. Now, if you¡¯ll excuse me, I need to get to ss.¡±


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 Chapter 544

    ?Chapter 544:


    With those words, she turned and strode away, not waiting for Elsa¡¯s response.


    Elsa¡¯s expression clouded over with indignation. Brenna¡¯s defiant stance irked her deeply. Much like Ethan, Brenna was headstrong and disyed little regard for her.


    It was no surprise now that Ethan had shown little interest in anyone else until Brenna came into his life. Elsa believed she had approached Brenna with a semnce of respect, yet it was met with nothing but disrespect. Brenna wasn¡¯t even married to Ethan yet, and already, she showed such disregard toward her. What would happen if Brenna really married Ethan?


    This could not stand. Elsa couldn¡¯t entertain the thought of someone like Brenna as her daughter-inw.


    With a flurry of her coat, Elsa made her way to her car. Her visit to Shirie University wasn¡¯t solely for Brenna; she also had to finalize arrangements for her new role in the Art Department there. Having just retired from the performance troupe in the military, she had epted a prestigious offer from the university, a full professorship with all the apanying perks.


    Brenna couldn¡¯t shake the thought of Ethan¡¯s blind date. She was determined to ask him about it at dinner.


    If Ethan really had gone out with another woman, she was willing to break up with him.


    Before Ethan came into the picture, she had sworn off dating entirely, nning to stay single until she hit thirty. After watching Ellie¡¯s heart get torn apart by a man she trusted, she had not wanted any romance in her life.


    As the clock struck six, Brenna, apanied by Tommy, walked to the exit of the school and spotted Ethan¡¯s car. Leaning casually against the vehicle, a cigarette loosely held between his fingers, Ethan exuded a nonchnt coolness as he crafted perfect smoke rings into the evening air. His undeniable charm didn¡¯t go unnoticed, drawing admiring nces and even covert snapshots from many passersby.


    A group of bold young women from Shirie University didn¡¯t hesitate to approach him, asking for his number.


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    The moment Brenna slid into Ethan¡¯s car, she wasted no time, cutting straight to the chase. ¡°Ethan, did you go on a blind date recently?¡±


    Caught off guard while navigating the gears, Ethan stiffened for a moment, his mind racing to the possibility that Brenna¡¯s parents had told her about the matter and disapproved of their rtionship now.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t,¡± he denied quickly, his voice firm yet tinged with frustration as he added, ¡°My mom set it up behind my back, without my consent.¡±


    Brenna looked at him, recounting the events of the afternoon, her expression cool and indifferent.


    Ethan¡¯s unease simmered beneath his calm exterior, irritation pricking at him like a thorn. He believed that Elsa, with her interference, had crossed a line this time.


    ¡°Brenna, don¡¯t listen to what others say. If I make any decisions about our rtionship, I¡¯ll tell you myself.¡± As he pulled the car over, Ethan fixed Brenna with a resolute gaze, his eyes tinged with sincerity. ¡°Just believe me.¡±


    Brenna nodded, believing him.


    Ethan massaged his temples, feeling the onset of a headache. He hadn¡¯t expected Brenna and Elsa to run into each other today. This dinner might not go as smoothly as he¡¯d hoped. Before long, Ethan and Brenna reached the restaurant.


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 Chapter 545

    ?Chapter 545:


    The atmosphere changed the instant Ethan and Brenna entered the private room. They spotted Elsa already inside, seated across from a beautiful young woman in a beige dress. The two were chatting andughing as if they were old friends.


    ¡°Minna?¡± Ethan froze in ce, caught between stepping forward and leaving with Brenna.


    Brenna¡¯s intuition was razor-sharp as she caught the tension in the air. ¡°Who is she?¡± she inquired, her gaze turning cold.


    Ethan¡¯s jaw tightened in frustration. He turned to Elsa, his voice low but clearly tinged with anger. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you mention you invited someone, Mom?¡±


    Ethan locked eyes with Elsa¡¯s self-assured smirk, and for a fleeting moment, the overbearing figure from his childhood merged with the woman now seated across from him.


    Growing up, his sole ambition had been to dive into finance and carve out a career in business. Yet, his parents, steadfast in their conviction, had insisted he pursue a military path through an academy.


    This sh of visions defined his school years, marked by relentless punishments from his parents. In his mind, his parents loomed as strict enforcers, their iron grip fueling his defiance, which often led to grueling punishments¡ªstanding at attention, endless push-ups, and squats. He still remembered these moments clearly.


    After graduating from high school, Ethan covertly altered the military application his parents had prepared, securing a spot at one of the nation¡¯s top universities to study finance.


    His parents had erupted in fury. His father had meted out punishment and warned him he would have to take the exam for a military track the next year. He had even vowed to cut off all financial support if he studied finance.


    Fueled by sheer resolve, Ethan had clutched his eptance letter, enrolled independently, and gotten his four-year degree without a cent from his family. He hadn¡¯t even returned home for the holidays. Only in his graduation year did a tentative reconciliation begin to take root.


    Now, that old spark of rebellion surged again. Ethan instinctively fortified his heart, his gaze toward Elsa turning icy as if he were looking at an enemy.


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    Elsa, with a subtle, knowing smile, held his stare in a quiet challenge. She hadn¡¯t anticipated Ethan arriving with Brenna.


    Standing confidently by the circr table, she sped Minna¡¯s hand, subtly signaling her intentions to Ethan.


    His clear difort only deepened her sense of triumph.


    ¡°Come join us. Minna made time to be here, so be sure to make her feel wee.¡± Ignoring Brenna entirely, Elsa pushed to pair Ethan with Minna.


    Minna, however, caught the intimate way Brenna¡¯s hand rested on Ethan¡¯s arm and realized that Ethan already had a girlfriend. Moreover, his girlfriend was stunningly beautiful, a hundred times prettier than her.


    Minna forced a smile, longing to escape the awkward situation.


    Ethan¡¯s expression grew frostier. Without acknowledging Elsa¡¯s words, he guided Brenna back a few steps and shut the door. ¡°Brenna, I¡¯m so sorry. I had no idea my mom would invite someone else. Let¡¯s eat somewhere else.¡±


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 Chapter 546

    ?Chapter 546:


    Elsa was free to invite anyone she chose to the dinner, and Ethan knew he had no power to prevent it. However, he could sidestep the situation entirely by leaving with Brenna and dining somewhere else. His cold presence radiated a clear warning to others to keep their distance.


    Noticing his sour mood, Brenna hesitated but feltpelled to ask, ¡°Was that the girl from your blind date yesterday?¡±


    Ethan nodded, his eyes heavy with guilt. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Brenna. I went home yesterday and had no clue about my mom¡¯s ns. I didn¡¯t meet that girl intentionally, and I would never betray you. Please don¡¯t get the wrong idea. I won¡¯t visit my parents to ensure this doesn¡¯t happen again.¡±


    Brenna, though frustrated by the situation and unsure if Ethan¡¯s promise was sincere or just to calm her, responded evenly, ¡°You should sort this out soon.¡±


    Ethan then led Brenna to another private dining room. After ordering, Brenna excused herself to the restroom, bag in hand.


    In the secluded dining room, Elsa seethed inwardly, but Minna¡¯s presence forced her to maintainposure and avoid any outburst. She worried that any misstep might lead Minna to misinterpret the situation and abandon her interest in Ethan.


    With careful words, Elsa said to Minna, ¡°Just a moment, please. I¡¯ll go fetch him.¡±


    But when she stepped outside, Ethan and Brenna had vanished. Left with no other option, she dialed Ethan¡¯s number, only to find that Ethan refused to answer her call.


    Brenna emerged from the restroom stall and was washing her hands when she encountered Minna. Both paused, caught off guard by the encounter.


    Minna, struck by Brenna¡¯s poised and striking presence, observed her briefly before offering a handshake.


    Brenna dried her hands before lightly shaking Minna¡¯s.


    Minna said to Brenna, ¡°You¡¯re undeniably gorgeous, but that¡¯s where it ends. I suspect you¡¯re drawn to Mr. Mitchell¡¯s wealth, and he¡¯s captivated by your appearance. You both have your reasons, but such shallow connections fade quickly. Only someone like me is truly right for Mr. Mitchell for the long haul.¡±


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    Minna¡¯s self-assurance radiated from her prestigious role in the military district¡¯s performance troupe, which imbued her with an air of distinction. Though shecked Brenna¡¯s beauty, she believed her status far outweighed mere looks.


    Despite Brenna¡¯s striking appearance, Minna dismissed her as mere eye candy, convinced that Ethan would tire of her allure in time.


    Brenna, with a steely gaze, retorted sharply, ¡°You¡¯re wrong about me. Do you even know who I am? Have you heard of the Harper family, one of the four most powerful families? I¡¯m the Harper family¡¯s daughter. So, if you think I like Ethan because of his wealth, you are wrong.¡±


    She washed her hands once more, dried them with purpose, and walked away.


    Minna stood stunned. Brenna wasn¡¯t just youthful and beautiful; she also belonged to a prestigious family. A wave of anxiety washed over Minna, her sense of superiority crumbling.


    Just before her scheduled trip to Pileca for the uing economic forum, Brenna wrapped up the fighter jet design and submitted it to the military. The design passed their evaluation without a hitch. The special forces unit assigned to guard Brenna was quietly pulled back, their mission evidently deemedplete.


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 Chapter 547

    ?Chapter 547:


    That evening at dinner, Ernst took the seat beside Brenna and leaned in slightly, speaking in a low tone. ¡°You¡¯ve been caught up with worktely, haven¡¯t you?¡±


    Brenna blinked, a bit puzzled by the question, but shrugged it off and responded with a light smile. ¡°Yeah, things have been a little hectic. I just wrapped up somest details with the military, but it¡¯s all settled now. Why? Something wrong?¡±


    Ernst arched a brow, his expression a mix of curiosity and teasing concern. ¡°Hmm. Not really. Just thought it was funny¡ªwe live under the same roof, yet I haven¡¯t run into you in over two weeks. I¡¯m a CEO, and you¡¯re an engineer. How is it that you¡¯re somehow busier than me?¡±


    With a serene smile, Brenna exined, ¡°The military was rushing my studio for results. They wanted everything handed over before October, so I had to put in some extra hours.¡±


    Dalton, overhearing their quiet exchange, leaned in with a grin. ¡°Don¡¯t let his probing bother you. He¡¯s trying to get info for Ethan. You two haven¡¯t been spending much time together, right?¡±


    Catching Dalton¡¯s cheeky grin, Brenna responded with a lightugh. ¡°This project really hogged all my calendar slots recently. No room left for dates, unfortunately.¡±


    She believed there was no rift between her and Ethan; it was simply a matter of professional priorities shing with personal time. Despite Ethan¡¯s repeated attempts to whisk her away for evenings out, hermitment to meeting the project¡¯s deadline meant she had to regretfully decline each invitation.


    Ernst was visibly annoyed, his eyes narrowing at Dalton as he regretted divulging Ethan¡¯s grievances to him. Ethan had tasked him with finding out what was preupying Brenna and subtly assessing her mood, particrly if she was still irked by the incident.


    Now that the cat was out of the bag, Ernst found himself scrambling for a way to continue the conversation with Brenna without raising suspicions.


    ¡°Brenna, you look like you could use a break. How about I take you out for a bit of downtime? What do you say?¡± he suggested, trying to sound casual.


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    Brenna shot him a skeptical nce. They had almost nothing inmon. Why would he want to spend time with her?


    ¡°Where to?¡± she asked, her voiceced with a hint of disinterest.


    ¡°Fishing. Want to join?¡± Ernst blurted out, the idea popping into his head without much thought.


    ¡°Nope. That¡¯s really more of a guy thing. I don¡¯t get any fun out of it,¡± Brenna responded directly, shutting down the suggestion without a second thought. After enduring two grueling weeks of overtime, her only desire was to copse into bed for some much-needed rest. Undeterred, Ernst floated a few more activity ideas, typically favored by women, but each one was met with t rejection.


    Dalton couldn¡¯t help but chuckle at Ernst¡¯s bumbling efforts, shaking his head in amusement.


    Because of the fighter jet project¡¯s urgent deadlines, Brenna had been drowning in work, pushing all othermitments to the back burner. She hadn¡¯t met Ethan in days.


    Ethan had made several attempts to visit her workshop, only to find her engulfed in tasks, barely acknowledging his presence as she had been busy with work.


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 Chapter 548

    ?Chapter 548:


    Ethan¡¯s heart sank with every silent moment that passed. He could feel the weight of his recent mistakes pressing down on him, almost certain that Brenna¡¯s cold detachment was a sign of deeper troubles brewing between them. As he watched her, lost in her work, he felt a pang of anxiety. Maybe she was already thinking about breaking up with him.


    ¡°Brenna, I swear, I haven¡¯t seen Minna since that night. There¡¯s absolutely nothing going on between me and her,¡± Ethan said, his voiceden with sincerity.


    However, Brenna seemed utterly absorbed in her task, her attention tethered to the glowing screen before her. She pointed out a feature on the mechanical arm design,pletely engrossed in her technical discussion with a young engineer beside her. ¡°If we add another joint here, it could really enhance the mobility for amputees, offering them finer control and better dexterity,¡± she said with a focused intensity. The engineer nodded, clearly impressed by Brenna¡¯s insight. ¡°You¡¯ve thought of everything, Brenna. I¡¯ll get on that revision right away.¡±


    Meanwhile, Greta had been observing the interaction from across the room. She thought it was a bit cold for Brenna to leave Ethan hanging like that, but considering how swamped Brenna had beentely, she understood her.


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell, why don¡¯t you join me over here for now? It¡¯s already 11:30. Maybe try catching Brenna during lunch? She might be more avable then,¡± Greta suggested, her voice soft. She knew a man like Ethan was far out of her league, but even the tiniest chance to talk to him was better than none.


    Ethan¡¯s eyes lingered on Brenna¡¯s face. He had been standing there for nearly ten minutes, yet she had only spared him a single nce before diving right back into her work.


    She wasn¡¯t being rude; she was genuinely busy.


    ¡°Alright,¡± Ethan replied with a quiet sigh, conceding.


    As he stepped out of Brenna¡¯s office, he scanned the bustling workspace. Every desk was upied, every seat taken¡ªthere wasn¡¯t even a spare chair in sight.


    ¡°This way,¡± Greta said quickly, stepping in to guide him.


    She led Ethan toward a meeting room at the end of the hallway.


    Unfamiliar with theyout, Ethan followed her without question, ncing curiously at the surroundings. The room was small but cozy, furnished with soft yellow leather couches arranged in a circle around a pale square coffee table. The minimalist design gave it a simple charm.


    Sinkingfortably into one of the sofas, Ethan nced at Greta and asked, ¡°Have you guys been busytely?¡±


    Seeing Ethan initiate a conversation, Greta felt her heart flutter. A mix of excitement and anxiety surged through her, and she subtly wiped her damp palms against her skirt. Trying to keep her voice steady, she answered, ¡°Yes, we have been very busy recently. We¡¯ve been pullingte nights, working until eleven or even past midnight. We even eat lunch and dinner at our desks. We¡¯re drowning in orders.¡±


    She felt a quiet thrill at being able to fill Ethan in, secretly hoping he would keep the conversation going. And to her delight, he did.


    ¡°What do you usually eat for lunch?¡± Ethan asked, his voice easy butced with curiosity.


    Greta paused for a beat, then chuckled softly. ¡°Honestly? Whatever¡¯s fast and delivers. Usually takeout¡ªpizza, spaghetti, tacos, etc.¡±


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 Chapter 549

    ?Chapter 549:


    At that, Ethan¡¯s brows knitted into a slight frown. Just hearing about that kind of diet made his chest tighten with worry a little. Unhealthy junk food every day? That wasn¡¯t good for Brenna, who was already burning herself out with overwork. He was concerned for her.


    Ethan¡¯s brows knitted together as he pulled out his phone, thumbing across the screen with a frown. He muttered under his breath,


    ¡°Brenna can¡¯t keep living off takeout. It¡¯s greasy and unhealthy, and half the time, it tastes bad¡­¡±


    ¡°Yeah, the takeout doesn¡¯t evene close to the restaurants downstairs. But we order from that ce quite often, and the food is alright,¡± Greta hurriedly replied, catching sight of Ethan already tapping in an order.


    Without lifting his eyes from the screen, Ethan inquired,


    ¡°How many people work here?¡±


    ¡°Twenty-five,¡± Greta answered, bending down to retrieve a disposable cup from thepact cab nestled beneath the coffee table. She then made her way outside to prepare a cup of coffee for Ethan.


    Returning, she presented the coffee to him with both hands, her voice earnest.


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell, there¡¯s still over half an hour until lunch. Have some coffee first. Don¡¯t worry; the coffee is good¡ªBrenna¡¯s friend sent the coffee beans from Heteron.¡±


    Ethan gave a subtle nod and cautiously took a sip from the paper cup. To his surprise, the coffee was excellent¡ªrich, smooth, and aromatic. It even outshined some of the premium brands he kept stocked in his office.


    With a quick nce at the coffee, he said,


    ¡°Pack some of the coffee beans for me.¡±


    Greta¡¯s eyes sparkled with delight as she was happy to serve Ethan. She hurried to the small pantry outside, retrieved a tin can wrapped in in brown packaging from the cab, and ced it carefully into Ethan¡¯s hands.


    Ethan examined the can, his brow knitting in confusion. The script on the packaging was unfamiliar to him, its characters dancing beyond hisprehension, and the brand was foreign.


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    ¡°Don¡¯t bother with takeout today. I already ordered food for everyone,¡± he said, his tone casual but firm.


    Seizing the rare chance to stay close to Ethan, Gretatched onto the conversation, her words spilling out naturally as she stuck to the topic she knew Ethan cared most about¡ªBrenna. She kept chatting animatedly, peppering in little details, her voice enthusiastic, until the delivery finally arrived, right on cue with Brenna finishing her work and walking over.


    Greta, unwilling to let the moment slip away, continued cheerfully,


    ¡°Brenna¡¯s honestly so down-to-earth. You¡¯d never guess shees from a rich family.¡±


    She eats the same food we do, shares everything without a second thought. Even the coffee beans? They were a gift from her friend, but she just tossed them in the pantry for everyone to enjoy.


    Just then, Brenna walked in. She furrowed her brows at that.


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 Chapter 550

    ?Chapter 550:


    ¡°You¡¯ve been pushing yourself too hard,¡± Ethan said to Brenna as he walked over, his voice dropping to a gentle murmur. Without hesitation, he reached out and took Brenna¡¯s hand in his, his touch light but protective.


    ¡°I ordered food already. Sit down and eat, okay?¡±


    Standing a short distance away, Greta silently observed Ethan¡¯s gentle gesture, a sharp pang of envy twisting in her chest. She couldn¡¯t help but wonder when her hand might ever be held so warmly by him. With a practiced smile, Greta greeted Brenna before excusing herself with a graceful nod, leaving the couple to their moment.


    Outside, as Greta passed the rows of workstations, she could feel her colleagues¡¯ curious stares drilling into her back. Their expressions were odd, filled with thinly veiled judgment, yet no one directly said anything.


    Tommy approached Greta, a boxed meal in hand, and paused next to her. In a hushed tone tinged with caution, he advised,


    ¡°Next time Mr. Mitchell drops by, don¡¯t make it so obvious you¡¯re trying to get close to him. Tread lightly, or Brenna won¡¯t hesitate to fire you.¡±


    Greta¡¯s face drained of color. She immediately understood the hidden meaning behind his words, yet pride wouldn¡¯t let her back down. Forcing a sneer onto her face, she snapped back stiffly,


    ¡°What kind of nonsense are you spouting? I am not trying to get close to Mr. Mitchell.¡±


    Nearby, a few colleagues paused mid-bite, throwing quick, sidelong nces her way. Some of their eyes gleamed with gossip, others narrowed in silent disdain.


    Tommy leaned a little closer, his expression serious.


    ¡°Don¡¯t y us for fools,¡± he said bluntly. ¡°The way you look at Mr. Mitchell¡­ anyone can tell what you¡¯re thinking.¡±


    Greta¡¯s cheeks burned with embarrassment. Flustered and irritated, she shot back,


    ¡°You¡¯ve got no right to poke your nose into my personal matters.¡±


    The colleagues nearby murmured among themselves, talking with raised eyebrows about Greta¡¯s audacity in vying for attention, potentially even shing with Brenna for the affections of a man.


    Tommy¡¯s gaze shifted back to the room where Brenna and Ethan shared a cozy lunch, their closeness speaking volumes. Brenna¡¯sughter rang clear, her face alight with joy at something Ethan had said.


    Tommy turned back to Greta, his voice a warning whisper.


    ¡°Brenna may seem easygoing, but she¡¯s no pushover. She has fired people here before¡­¡±


    His eyes narrowed slightly as he continued,


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure your intentions for joining us were ever solely professional.¡±


    Greta¡¯s eyes shed with anger as she retorted,


    ¡°How about you mind your own business?¡±


    Tommy, on the verge of cautioning Greta to temper her wild fantasies and be more restrained, was interrupted when Joe walked over, clutching a ck folder.


    Joe¡¯s eyes scanned the room quickly before he asked casually,


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 Chapter 551

    ?Chapter 551:


    ¡°Where¡¯s Brenna?¡±


    Tommy tipped his head toward the reception room, a faint smirk tugging at his lips.


    ¡°Sharing lunch with Mr. Mitchell.¡±


    He waved his meal box slightly, the aroma wafting through the air tantalizingly.


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell really went all out¡ªgourmet meals from a chef plucked right from a five-star kitchen. Want a taste?¡±


    Joe¡¯sughter rang out, light and genuine.


    ¡°Lucky me. I¡¯m not passing this up.¡±


    Tommy grinned as he dug into the stic crate nearby and retrieved thest portion, offering it to Joe.


    ¡°They sent an extra; you can have it.¡±


    Joe epted it with a grin, then nced toward the ss walls of the reception room. Brenna and Ethan were still deep in conversation,ughter lighting up their faces. He wisely decided not to disturb them and instead followed Tommy to an empty corner to settle in for a meal.


    Meanwhile, Ethan¡¯s spirits were noticeably lifted. Seeing Brenna talk to and smile at him like old times melted away the concern that had been weighing on him for days. She wasn¡¯t cold toward him. She wasn¡¯t avoiding him. Relief loosened the knot in his chest.


    Brenna, noticing the easy grin on his face, couldn¡¯t resist teasing him,


    ¡°Who would¡¯ve thought a high-and-mighty CEO like you would actually have the patience to sit around and wait for me? I¡¯m truly ttered.¡±


    Ethan noticed that Brenna hadn¡¯t brought up the blind date. She seemed at ease, and that alone made his chest feel lighter. The tension he had been carrying slowly melted away.


    After they finished their meal, he reached into his jacket and pulled out a small red velvet box. His hands were steady, but his eyes carried a hopeful glint as he opened it in front of her. Inside the box was a stunning ne. Its design was intricate, speckled with gemstones that caught the sunlight and shimmered like stars.


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    Without a word, Brenna turned and brushed her hair aside so Ethan could fasten it around her neck. She was already wearing an expensive ne, a gift from Giselle.


    But she had never measured love by price tags or brands. What touched her most was the gesture itself.


    The ne Ethan chose was worth a lot. She couldn¡¯t say if it was a one-of-a-kind piece or part of an exclusive line, and she didn¡¯t care to find out. She liked how it looked. And more than that, she liked the thought behind it.


    Ethan beamed.


    ¡°I¡¯m d you like it. Let me help you put it on.¡±


    Ever so carefully, he unfastened the ne Brenna had on and ced it gently in the velvet box. Then, he lifted the one he had brought and moved to sp it around her neck. His fingers worked slowly, steadying the sp, but his breath hitched when they brushed against her skin. Her skin was soft and warm, and for a second, his heart skipped a beat.


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 Chapter 552

    ?Chapter 552:


    Outside, a few engineers enjoying their meal couldn¡¯t help but watch the scene. Their heads tilted toward the window, curious about the expensive ne.


    Greta gripped the hem of her dress so tightly that her knuckles turned white as she watched. Jealousy red in her chest. Ethan, the most powerful CEO in the world, had bought Brenna jewelry. And now, he was putting it on her himself, as if Brenna were the only woman in the world. How could the world¡¯s richest man go out of his way to please a woman like this?


    Greta narrowed her eyes and studied the ne closely. Then, she quickly took a photo of it with her phone, nning to search for its price and model. But no matter how many searches she ran, nothing came up.


    Given Ethan¡¯s immense wealth, the ne had to be custom-made.


    A dull ache settled in Greta¡¯s chest. No matter how she looked at it, she believed she couldn¡¯tpare to Brenna. Brenna was younger, prettier, and more capable than her. Even her family background was better. And Ethan had eyes only for her.


    Greta swallowed hard. Aside from the time she had spoken to Ethan to give him an update about Brenna, he hadn¡¯t spared her so much as a nce.


    She nced at her reflection in her phone screen, studying her own features. The longer she stared, the more ordinary she felt. Maybe Ethan liked Brenna simply because she was beautiful. For a brief moment, the idea of cosmetic surgery even crossed Greta¡¯s mind.


    Eventually, Ethan left. Brenna didn¡¯t follow him or say goodbye. She just rose from her seat and returned to her office.


    Greta¡¯s eyes stayed on Ethan as he passed. He didn¡¯t acknowledge her or even look her way. Her heart sank.


    But then, Ethan greeted Joe and Tommy, and that made the sting even sharper.


    Still, she clung to a sliver of hope. Maybe Ethan was only keeping his distance from her to avoid upsetting Brenna.


    Joe tossed the empty lunch box into the trash, picked up a folder, and headed toward Brenna¡¯s office. They had to go over the speech for the uing economic forum.


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    At two in the afternoon, Thiago arrived, also to help finalize the speech. By the end of the workday, Brenna, Joe, and Thiago had everything polished and ready.


    On October 7th, Brenna, Thiago, Joe, and Tommy boarded a flight bound for Plieca to attend the global trade forum.


    Plieca, as a country, was small innd area but carried enormous influence. It was home to the world¡¯s busiest port and stood as thergest financial center.


    Each year, the global trade forum brought financial giants and top entrepreneurs from across the world to Plieca.


    There were many young, talented people with achievements like Brennaing to the forum.


    The Financial Building, where the forum would be held, sat on a gleaming street lined with towers that touched the clouds. There were many luxury hotels, all outrageously priced. But for people in this circle, price tags meant nothing.


    The moment Brenna stepped off the ne, a chill crept up her spine. Something felt off. It was as though she was being watched. She paused to scan the surroundings, but everything appeared normal. Yet the feeling lingered, unsettling her.


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 Chapter 553

    ?Chapter 553:


    She turned to Thiago, who walked just a step behind her, and asked, ¡°Did anyone else know which hotel you booked?¡±


    Thiago, ustomed to Brenna¡¯s intuition, responded, ¡°No. Only I knew. Even Joe and Tommy didn¡¯t find out where we were staying until just before we left.¡±


    Brenna nodded, her expression unreadable. ¡°I have a feeling some of our rivals are here. Look into it. Find out who¡¯s in town and where they¡¯re staying.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t that she was worried or afraid of her enemies¡ªit was more that she hated being caught off guard. She had learned the hard way never to let her guard down. If she had, her enemies would have taken her out a long time ago.


    Without hesitation, Thiago pulled out his phone and reached out to a few trusted contacts in Plieca.


    A short distance behind Brenna and the others, a tall man wearing a baseball cap and dark sunsses weaved through the crowd. He moved with ease, dragging a ck suitcase behind him. Earphones sat in his ears, and every now and then, he muttered something under his breath.


    He blended in with the crowd¡ªjust another traveler in a rush. He didn¡¯t raise any suspicion.


    Brenna and the others climbed into a taxi. The vehicle pulled away and disappeared into the stream of cars. The man in the baseball cap slipped into a nearby van with local tes. Without even ncing at the driver, he said in a low voice, ¡°Follow that taxi.¡±


    When Brenna and her team arrived at the hotel, they each checked into luxurious suites.


    Brenna never cut corners when it came to her team. Whether it was a business trip across the country or halfway around the world, whether for herself, senior managers, or even junior staff, she always made sure they had the best. She believed that providingfort meant offering them the space to focus without unnecessary distractions.


    Once Thiago, Joe, and Tommy had dropped their luggage in their rooms, they regrouped in Brenna¡¯s suite to run a security check.


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    The three men moved with practiced efficiency. They had done this countless times before and took Brenna¡¯s safety seriously. Thiago, especially, double-checked everything after Joe and Tommypleted their sweep. He carefullybed through the room, checking for hidden devices, irregr wiring, or anything that seemed out of ce. When the inspection was done, Thiago straightened and nodded. There was nothing amiss.


    ¡°No issues here. It¡¯s 4:15 now. Let¡¯s head down for dinner around 6:30, then get a good night¡¯s sleep. The opening ceremony is tomorrow.¡± Thiago nced over at Joe and Tommy. ¡°Since our visit is public, somepanies might try to set up business talks. You two need to stay sharp.¡±


    Joe and Tommy grinned from ear to ear. They knew that business deals meantmissions, and neither of them was about to miss out on that.


    ¡°Got it!¡± Joe said with a nod.


    Tommy also nodded.


    Brenna had been invited as an academic in the field of economics. Her speech was part of a roundtable discussion with global financial leaders. She nned to treat it with the seriousness it deserved. This was her chance to share her ideas and make an impact.


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 Chapter 554

    ?Chapter 554:


    After the men left, Brenna sat down at the desk in her suite. She pulled out her notes and refined her speech, checking for anyst-minute improvements. Once satisfied, she logged into the forum¡¯s internalwork to browse the list of notable attendees.


    Later that evening, after Brenna and her team returned from dinner, Thiago spotted a small convenience store across the street. He nodded toward it and said, ¡°Let¡¯s grab some essentials.¡±


    The store beneath the hotel was built with a specific crowd in mind. It catered to the wealthy guests who stayed in the surrounding luxury hotels and was packed with premium goods.


    ¡°Sure,¡± said Brenna with a nod. The four of them stepped inside together. A handful of other customers milled around the aisles, most of them foreigners. They had the look of travelers in town for the forum.


    As Brenna¡¯s group entered, the two clerks behind the counter greeted them warmly in the localnguage.


    Brenna¡¯s eyes swept over the space. The store was spacious, maybe a hundred square meters, with neat rows of bottled water, imported snacks, travel-sized toiletries, and everything else a traveler might forget to pack. Security cameras sat tucked in each corner, their tiny lenses gleaming under the lights.


    Who was watching those feeds? At the thought of this, Brenna tugged the brim of her cap lower, shielding more of her face from the cameras. Brenna and her team moved through the aisles, each grabbing what they needed. Thiago loaded tworge packs of bottled water into his arms, then tossed in a bag of whole grain bread and some instant meals for good measure.


    Joe and Tommy wandered through the aisles too, each picking up a few packs of instant meals and a case of mineral water. Brenna kept it light and grabbed just a few boxes of wafers, cookies, and chocte. The four of them exchanged smiles, amused by their simr choices.


    Brenna eyed the haul in their arms and shook her head with a chuckle. ¡°Why so many instant meals? You do realize I can afford to treat you to meals, right?¡±


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    She even suspected they hadn¡¯t eaten enough at dinner.


    Joe raised an eyebrow. ¡°I brought pickles.¡±


    Tommy chimed in, ¡°I brought some sauce.¡±


    ¡°The food here is awful. I¡¯m curious if the instant stuff tastes any better,¡± Thiago said.


    It dawned on Brenna. No wonder they had pushed their tes away so quickly at dinner. They weren¡¯t full. They just couldn¡¯t stomach the local cuisine.


    Back at the hotel, Thiago dropped a pack of bottled water just outside Brenna¡¯s room.


    He then ced a bottle neatly beside her desk. ¡°I¡¯ve already checked the water. It¡¯s safe.¡±


    Brenna twisted the cap open without thinking. She took a sip and immediately stopped. She then spat the water out into the wastebasket nearby.


    Something was wrong. This tasted off.


    ¡°Has the person who delivered the bags left?¡± Brenna asked warily. When they hade back from the store, a hotel staff member had approached them in the lobby and offered to help carry the bags.


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 Chapter 555

    ?Chapter 555:


    Thiago¡¯s expression shifted slightly. ¡°I checked. None of the bottles were opened, and I picked one at random. I don¡¯t see how anyone could¡¯ve tampered with them.¡±


    But a thought flickered across his mind. The hotel staff member had stood right behind them in the elevator, just outside their direct line of sight. It was possible that the water had been tampered with.


    Still, Thiago had been careful. After the person left, he had inspected every bottle himself before handing one over to Brenna.


    ¡°Are you sure there¡¯s something wrong with the water?¡± he asked.


    Brenna nodded firmly. ¡°I studied medicine and am hypersensitive to taste. Whatever was added to this water was in a very precise dose, small enough that most people wouldn¡¯t even notice.¡±


    Thiago¡¯s brows pulled together in a tight line. He hesitated, then said, ¡°But I already drank half a bottle¡­ And I feel fine.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s brow furrowed as she pivoted on her heel and strode over to her suitcase. She rummaged through thepact first-aid kit tucked inside, pulling out a small brown bottle with faded letters etched across itsbel. She extended the bottle toward Thiago, her voice firm as she said, ¡°Take one of these pills; they¡¯re designed to neutralize mostmon drugs.¡±


    Without a moment¡¯s hesitation, Thiago took the pill, his trust in Brenna unshakeable. He could already feel a telltale drowsiness clouding his senses, a clear indicator that the drug was kicking in.


    Wearing a frown, Thiago quickly called Joe and Tommy over.


    With a meticulousness born of necessity, Brenna unscrewed the bottle¡¯s cap, using it to collect a small sample of water. She dipped a finger into the liquid and tasted it, her suspicions immediately confirmed. The drug in the water was rmingly potent. Joe and Tommy both let out heavy yawns when they arrived.


    Joe rubbed his eyes, his voice tinged with confusion. ¡°I don¡¯t get it. I¡¯ve pulled countless all-nighters in the studio without ever feeling this exhausted.¡±


    Tommy nodded, his agreement punctuated by another yawn. ¡°Me, too. Brenna, did you need us for something? Because if not, I really need to get some sleep.¡±


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    Without a word, Thiago retrieved the small bottle and pressed a pill into each of their palms. His voice was low and grim. ¡°Take this. Someone tampered with the bottled water we bought.¡±


    His face was stone-cold. Whoever set them up hadn¡¯t left a trace, and that scared him more than he let on.


    Joe¡¯s eyes zed with fury as he grasped the unsettling truth behind his exhaustion. With scarcely a moment¡¯s hesitation, he swallowed the pill. ¡°What the hell? Who would do something like this? If I find out who it was, I¡¯ll teach them a hard lesson!¡±


    Tommy paled, his hands trembling slightly as he followed suit, swallowing the pill. ¡°Thank God Brenna¡¯s got a medical background and crazy good instincts. If she hadn¡¯t caught it, we¡¯d probably be lying dead somewhere without a clue what hit us.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s antidote kicked in fast. Within minutes, the heavy fog clouding their minds began to lift. They blinked the sleepiness from their eyes, feeling sharper.


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 Chapter 556

    ?Chapter 556:


    With every passing second, each of them gripped a bottle of water, inspecting it with growing suspicion.


    The stic bottles looked perfectly normal¡ªno cracks, no leaks. If someone had jabbed a needle through them, there would¡¯ve been at least some sign of tampering. But the bottles were intact, and even the caps looked factory-sealed.


    Joe furrowed his brows, tapping the side of his bottle thoughtfully. ¡°Doesn¡¯t seem like it was that staff member in the elevator who tampered with the water,¡± he said slowly.


    Tommy agreed, his thoughts drifting to another possibility. ¡°Could there be an issue with that convenience store we stopped at?¡± he asked. His gaze then shifted to Thiago, probing for more clues. ¡°Thiago, could someone have found out you booked this hotel?¡±


    Thiago crossed his arms, his brows knitted tightly. ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s possible. When one books a room, one has to use their real name. Even if no outsiders knew about my reservation, the hotel staff definitely did. Someone could¡¯ve leaked it.¡±


    Joe¡¯s face darkened. ¡°Makes sense. These days, everything¡¯s connected to the inte¡ªbooking apps, hotel databases. Too many potential leaks.¡±


    Brenna nodded, her expression tense. ¡°Right. We can¡¯t trust any of the bottled water here.¡±


    She straightened up and then added firmly, ¡°Also, don¡¯t sleep too soundly tonight. Stay alert. I¡¯ll hand each of you a bottle of the antidote. It¡¯spletely harmless to your body, so take it if anything feels off.¡±


    Thiago swept his gaze over the others, his voice low and steady. ¡°If my guess is right, someone could try something tonight. Brenna and I can take care of ourselves. But what about you two?¡±


    Joe and Tommy exchanged a helpless nce. They were just ordinary people, not exactly trained for a fight.


    ¡°Thiago, why don¡¯t we just crash in your room?¡± Tommy suggested with a yful grin. ¡°We¡¯ll sleep on the floor.¡±


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    Joe, however, shook his head, a thoughtful frown creasing his brow. ¡°I doubt we¡¯re the main targets here. It¡¯s you two they¡¯re after. It¡¯s unlikely they¡¯ll waste effort on us.¡±


    Brenna let out a soft chuckle. ¡°You might be right, but still, stay vignt. If you are really worried, all three of you can bunk together for safety.¡±


    Joe continued to rub his chin, lost in thought. ¡°If I were behind this, I wouldn¡¯t just stop with one n. Anyone daring enough to drug us surely won¡¯t ignore Brenna¡¯s medical expertise. They probably prepared something more as well.¡±


    His words cast a heavy cloud over the room, pulling everyone into contemtion.


    Thiago finally spoke, his voice low and grim. ¡°Joe¡¯s right. If I were the one orchestrating this, I¡¯d prepare something more. There¡¯s a strong chance someone¡¯s already keeping tabs on us.¡±


    A sudden knock at the door cut through the tension. Thiago rose, his movements deliberate, and made his way to the entrance. Waiting outside was a towering figure cloaked in ck, wearing a mask and sunsses. He clutched two hefty ck duffels in his grip.


    ¡°Thiago!¡± the figure called out, his voice muffled slightly by the mask. Thiago swung the door wider, ushering him inside. ¡°Everyone, meet David Scott, a good friend of mine.¡±


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 Chapter 557

    ?Chapter 557:


    He proceeded to introduce Brenna and the others to David.


    David set the bags down with a thud and unzipped them, revealing what was inside¡ªseveral handguns, boxes of ammunition, and an assortment of ded weapons.


    As he handed out the firearms and bullets, he said, ¡°Here, private gun ownership is on the books. Keep these close for your safety. The crime rate here has spiked recently. Never wander out alone. Thiago, it might be wise to think about hiring some professional bodyguards.¡±


    Tommy scratched his chin, a cheeky grin spreading across his face. ¡°Brenna, I have an idea¡­¡±


    When Brenna caught the glint in his eyes, she knew they were thinking the exact same thing.


    A little past midnight, Brennay curled up under the nket, eyes fixed on her phone screen. She had connected her phone to aptop stationed outside the bedroom. Its webcam was pointed directly at the door.


    To make sure nothing was missed, she had left the hallway light on.


    The door soon creaked open. Then, two tall figures slipped into the room, moving like shadows. Judging from their broad figures, they were unmistakably men. ck hoods covered their faces, and each carried a gun, the barrels fitted with silencers.


    From her hidden view on the screen, Brenna saw everything. If they wanted to kill her, they would be able to do it without a sound. It was chilling to think how ruthless the people behind this were. The man leading the way moved with eerie caution. Even though he assumed everyone inside was drugged, he kept his guard up.


    As the two men stepped into the room, they caught sight of theptop, its webcam aimed squarely at the door. That alone set off rms in their heads.


    A dull thud sounded, and the screen went ck.


    Under the nket, Brenna rolled her eyes. Unfortunately, these two weren¡¯t as stupid as she thought.


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    She set her phone down, and her other hand slid beneath her pillow until her fingers wrapped around a pistol. A soft, deliberate click filled the silence as she chambered a round.


    The two intruders exchanged a look. The one in front spoke in a low, rough whisper. ¡°Have we been exposed?¡±


    The other man, presumably younger, answered, ¡°We shouldn¡¯t have been. We¡¯ve been watching them. Nothing seemed off.¡±


    They moved closer to the bedroom door, sticking tight to the walls. The older man gripped the doorknob and gave it a twist. ¡°It¡¯s locked. We¡¯ve definitely been exposed.¡±


    Without missing a beat, the younger man lifted his gun and fired at the lock. The shot was muffled.


    ¡°Still,¡± he said calmly, ¡°someone like Brenna is bound to be very cautious. Doesn¡¯t mean we are exposed. Who¡¯d ever guess we switched the water caps? They looked factory sealed. No one could tell the bottles were tampered with.¡±


    The lock was shattered. The door sat loose in its frame, ready to swing open at a touch. But the men didn¡¯t charge in. They pressed their ears against the door, straining to catch any sound from the other side. A minute passed. Silence. The younger one chuckled. ¡°See? You are just too anxious, Liam.¡±


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 Chapter 558

    ?Chapter 558:


    Liam Chapman snorted in response and nudged the door open. It creaked just a little. The faint hallway light spilled into the room, falling over the bed. A figurey under the nket, curled on its side.


    ¡°I heard Brenna¡¯s a real beauty. What do you say we have a little fun before¡­¡± Liam said.


    The two men exchanged augh, clearly thinking the same thing.


    The younger man chuckled with a sleazy grin. ¡°My thoughts exactly.¡± Brenna caught every word. She stayed low, crawling forward under the window inch by inch. From her angle, she caught a glimpse of one man¡¯s polished dress shoes. He aimed his gun at the bed.


    The other moved closer to the bed. Slowly, he reached out and lifted the nket. Beneath it, there was no one. Just a pile of pillows, towels, and the hotel¡¯s soft white cushions.


    ¡°We¡¯ve been tricked!¡± the younger man shouted.


    Panic broke across the men¡¯s faces.


    They spun around to flee, only to feel the cold muzzle of guns pressed firmly against their skulls.


    Shock froze them in ce.


    Before they could react, more figures stepped inside from the hallway. In seconds, their weapons were stripped away.


    The intruders turned to see the wardrobe door swinging open. It hit them then. The person who had them at gunpoint had been hiding inside the wardrobe all along, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. Brenna stood up and walked over to them.


    ¡°Tell me, who sent you?¡± she demanded.


    Without wasting time, Joe and Tommy pulled out zip ties and bound the two men.


    The intruders looked stunned. The older man, the one with the rough voice, asked, ¡°Didn¡¯t you drink the bottled water? How are you fine?¡± Thiago¡¯s face darkened. Without a word, he drove his fist into the man¡¯s face, making his nose bleed. He had heard what they had intended to do to Brenna.


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    He didn¡¯t stop there. He quickly delivered a brutal kick straight to the man¡¯s groin. A sickening crunch filled the room.


    ¡°Ah!¡± The hoarse-voiced man let out a strangled scream before copsing on the floor.


    The younger one tried to avoid Thiago¡¯s attacks.


    But Joe and Tommy were quicker. Even though they thought Thiago had gone a little too far, neither had any sympathy for the two men. They caught the younger man and quickly subdued him.


    Thiago didn¡¯t hesitate. He swung his leg hard andnded a brutal kick into the younger man¡¯s groin. The man crumpled to the floor, writhing in agony.


    ¡°Who sent you?¡± Joe barked and leveled his gun at the two men. Tommy did the same.


    Then, Joe yanked Liam up by the cor and drove his knee into his side, making him grunt in pain. ¡°Talk, or I¡¯ll send you straight to hell.¡± To prove he meant it, he squeezed the trigger and fired into the bedding as a warning.


    Liam flinched. He realized these people weren¡¯t here to y games.


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 Chapter 559

    ?Chapter 559:


    But he had been doing this kind of thing long enough to understand how this worked. If he talked, he would be useless to them and would be killed right away.


    ¡°Not talking, huh?¡± Thiago muttered, his voice dangerously low.


    Without giving Liam another warning, Thiago snatched the silenced pistol from Joe¡¯s hand and shot Liam¡¯s leg.


    In a high-end residential area of Plieca, Edward sat heavily on a leather sofa and leaned hard on his cane. The metal tip tapped against the floor. With his expression twisted in disapproval, he nced at Jade, who stood stiffly to his right, and checked the time on his wristwatch.


    ¡°It¡¯s already half past two, and still no news. Jade, those two you rmended don¡¯t seem very reliable,¡± he said, his voice cutting through the silence.


    Jade nced at her phone. By now, everything should have been finished an hour ago. What in the world were those two idiots doing?


    Still, a sly thought crossed her mind, one that made her lips curl into a small smile. She stepped closer to Edward, whose hair had long since turned silver, and rested a hand lightly on his shoulder.


    ¡°Dad, Brenna¡¯s beauty is unmatched. I asked Liam to take somepromising photos of her, ideally with a man. Once Ethan sees those, he¡¯ll be done with her for good.¡±


    There wasn¡¯t a hint of shame in her voice. If anything, she sounded proud, despite talking about something so inappropriate in front of her father.


    ¡°Maybe they found Brenna too attractive and decided to have a little extra fun before finishing the task,¡± Jade said with a smirk. She trusted Liam and Cary Boyd. They were her best subordinates in Plieca, and they had never failed her before.


    After a pause, she continued,


    ¡°Dad, I¡¯m sure that¡¯s all it is. Liam is careful. Just to handle Brenna, he even went as far as buying the convenience store downstairs at the Hulk Hotel. He looked into every detail about Brenna and her team. That Thiago guy always picks up a pack of bottled water on his trips. Knowing that, Liam ordered a special batch, filled the bottles himself, and personally mixed in the drug. The store employees are also trained. They won¡¯t make any mistakes.¡±


    She let out a chuckle.


    ¡°Before setting off, Liam even reported that Brenna and her team all drank the water. They should be fast asleep by now. So Liam couldn¡¯t possibly fail to do the mission. He is probably just taking his time.¡±


    Jade turned her gaze back to Edward¡¯s wrinkled face and gray hair. She added,


    ¡°Dad, if you want, I¡¯ll have Liam and Cary bring Brenna backter. Let you enjoy her too. You¡¯ve seen her. She¡¯s not just beautiful. She¡¯s got a figure that would drive anyone crazy.¡±


    Edward, now seventy-eight, had lived a life filled with excess. Over the years, he had fathered around seventy children, some of whom he had never met or¡­


    Acknowledged. Still, once a paternity test confirmed the connection, he always sent generous child support.


    For the first time that night, a faint smile tugged at the corner of his mouth.


    ¡°Liam has worked under you for years and never once failed. Call him. Urge him to finish the task quickly.¡±


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 Chapter 560

    Chapter 560:


    Jade nodded obediently and pulled out her phone to call Liam.


    Meanwhile, back at the hotel, Brenna sat calmly, a small sewing needle in her hand¡ªthe kind the hotel provided in their emergency kits. A few drops of blood clung to the tip.


    It was just a thin sliver of steel, but to Liam and Cary, it was more terrifying than any weapon they had ever faced.


    Moments earlier, Brenna had driven that tiny needle into their bodies with frightening precision. Neither could exin what she had hit, but the effect was immediate and excruciating. It felt as if a thousand knives were slicing through every inch of their flesh. Their muscles twisted in agony. Their bones felt like they were being smashed apart with heavy sledgehammers. The pain was unbearable.


    But when Brenna removed the needle, Liam and Cary realized there was nearly no damage left in their bodies. To them, Brenna was a demon in human skin.


    By then, Liam had already broken. He had betrayed Jade and Edward without a second thought.


    Brenna had just finished her interrogation when Liam¡¯s phone rang.


    The sharp sound made Liam jolt, a shiver running through his entire body. He had worked for Jade for years and had tortured more people than he could count, but nothing had everpared to what he had just endured. For the first time in his life, he wished he had never been born.


    Thiago retrieved Liam¡¯s phone and eyed him emotionlessly. Instead of answering the call, he leaned in close and said,


    ¡°You know exactly what you can and can¡¯t say. If you screw up even one word, you¡¯ll go through all of it again.¡±


    Liam bobbed his head frantically.


    ¡°Yes, I know! I know! I¡¯ll y along, I swear! I¡¯ll find out where they are.¡±


    Only then did Thiago press the answer button.


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    The next second, Jade¡¯s voice echoed through the line, sharp and arrogant as ever.


    ¡°Liam, what the hell are you doing? Do you know what time it is? Don¡¯t tell me you¡­¡±


    ¡°Were you so busy screwing a woman that you forgot what you were supposed to be doing?¡±


    Liam let out a forced chuckle and squeezed out augh.


    ¡°No, no, nothing like that. Just ran into a little trouble, but it¡¯s taken care of now. What do you need, Jade?¡±


    Hearing his answer, Jade hummed in satisfaction. She trusted Liam¡¯s skills too much to doubt him.


    ¡°I know what you¡¯re capable of. I trust you. Is Brenna dead yet?¡±


    Liam darted a nce at Brenna, who was calmly twirling the steel needle between her fingers. Fear gripped him again, making him shrink back, unable to meet her steady gaze.


    ¡°Not yet. I was just about to do it.¡±


    ¡°Make sure you get some nudes of her first. And send me some of her in bed with a man, too. I need them. That woman¡¯s got a body to die for. Lucky you,¡± Jade said.


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    Message from Noah: Good evening dear ones. God loves you and Noah whishes you all the best. ?(?? ? ? )??


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 Chapter 561

    ?Chapter 561:


    She was convinced Liam was telling the truth. She had even put the call on speakerphone so Edward could listen in.


    Liam bit down hard on his fear. Pretending everything was going ording to n, he said,


    ¡°Of course!¡±


    ¡°Jade, are you still at the usual spot?¡± Liam carefully asked.


    ¡°Yeah. After you finish, bring Brenna to my father. He will enjoy her body. Make sure you give her more drugs first. Her resilience is no joke. You¡¯ll need a stronger dose to keep her unconscious,¡± Jade said without a shred of doubt.


    ¡°Consider it done,¡± Liam replied.


    Thiago shifted uneasily. The situation was dangerous. Charging into trouble overseas was like poking a snake¡¯s nest. Without a word, he thumbed out a quick message on his phone and showed it to Liam. Catching on fast, Liam said,


    ¡°Ms. Hewitt, would you minding over? We just found out they hired local bodyguards. There are eight of them. If we try to leave with Brenna now, we might not make it.¡±


    ¡°I told you to move faster!¡± Jade snapped. ¡°If you screw this up, you will pay for it. Stay put. I¡¯ll bring backup.¡±


    Thiago typed again, faster this time. Liam nced at the message and seemed caught in a dilemma.


    Brenna caught a glimpse of the words. With a flick of her hand, she drove a needle into one of Liam¡¯s acupuncture points.


    Liam cried out in pain, his body tensing, his eyes pleading for mercy.


    He quickly said into the phone,


    ¡°Ms. Hewitt, is Mr. Ward still there? Brenna is really tempting. Mr. Ward would definitely appreciate her. Consider it a gesture of goodwill. Could you ask him toe here with you?¡±


    Jade narrowed her eyes. Doubt began to creep in. She nced at Edward, who was also beginning to look suspicious.


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    ¡°What do you want my father to do? Is there something wrong on your end? Send me a photo right now so I can see it for myself!¡± Jade demanded.


    Brenna had no intention of ying along with their little game of charades. She wasn¡¯t worried about Jade not taking the bait. After all, Jade had tried and failed to get rid of her back in the country. She believed Jade would do anything this time to kill her.


    Smirking, Brenna twirled the needle between her fingers.


    Thiago tapped another message on his phone and nudged it toward Liam.


    Liam had no choice but to keep pushing.


    ¡°How could that be, Ms. Hewitt? The hotel has tight security. Besides, I checked Brenna¡¯s phone. It shows she has been¡­¡±


    Chatting a lot with someone named Ethan, who happens to be staying at this hotel, too. If we try to take her out openly, I¡¯m afraid this Ethan guy will catch on. It would be better if you came and handled it yourself. It would also be best if you and Mr. Ward came alone. With fewer people, it will be easier to avoid attention.¡±


    ¡°You fool!¡± Jade exploded in anger. ¡°Ethan¡¯s there, and you didn¡¯t report it sooner? What the hell were you thinking?¡±


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 Chapter 562

    ?Chapter 562:


    Liam flinched. He had no idea about Jade¡¯s feelings toward Ethan or anything about their rtionship. He was only repeating what Thiago had instructed him to say.


    After a moment¡¯s hesitation, he said,


    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect it either, Ms. Hewitt. Please hurry. We¡¯re running out of time.¡±


    Jade was furious.


    ¡°Come back. Forget it for today. Ethan¡¯s not someone we can afford to mess with.¡±


    Without waiting for his response, she ended the call and turned to Edward to discuss the next steps.


    Thiago nced at Brenna.


    ¡°What now? They¡¯re noting.¡±


    Brenna pulled out a small ck bottle from her medicine kit. Without a word, she poured two pills into her palm, grabbed Liam¡¯s jaw roughly, and forced him to take one.


    She moved on to Cary with the same ruthless efficiency. A sharp punch to the gut left him no choice but to swallow.


    Liam¡¯s face turned ashen with terror.


    ¡°What did you just give me? Is it poison?¡±


    Brenna dusted off her hands and looked down at him coldly.


    ¡°I studied medicine. This is a poison I developed myself. If you don¡¯t take the antidote within 24 hours, you will die a slow, painful death. So think carefully before you say anything stupid when you get back. Otherwise, there will be no antidote waiting for you.¡±


    Liam and Cary stared at Brenna in horror. They hadn¡¯t expected her to be carrying poison.


    ¡°H-How do we get the antidote?¡± Liam asked.


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    Brenna rose to her feet.


    ¡°Come see me every night before midnight. I will give you the antidote then. It will keep the poison from taking hold for another 24 hours.¡±


    The two men slumped to the floor. They exchanged helpless nces, their faces pale with despair.


    ¡°Can¡¯t you just give us a permanent antidote?¡± Liam asked.


    Thiago kicked him without warning.


    ¡°In your dreams.¡±


    He pulled out a knife and sliced through the ties on their wrists.


    ¡°Get lost.¡±


    Grateful just to be alive, Liam dragged Cary to his feet. The two limped away without looking back.


    Joe and Tom scrubbed the bloodstains off the floor.


    Thiago leaned closer to Brenna and said,


    ¡°This ce isn¡¯t safe anymore. We should change hotels.¡±


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 Chapter 563

    ?Chapter 563:


    Brenna nodded.


    ¡°You¡¯re right. I¡¯ll ask Ethan and find out where he¡¯s staying. We can go to him. Edward has a lot of pull around here. It won¡¯t take long before he realizes we tricked them. Pack up. We need to leave immediately.¡±


    Thiago called toward the bedroom.


    ¡°Joe, Tom, you can stop what you¡¯re doing. We¡¯re leaving now.¡±


    When Liam and Cary returned to Jade¡¯s ce, they were pped the moment they walked in.


    ¡°Idiots!¡± Jade yelled.


    In less than an hour, Jade and Edward had already pieced everything together¡ªLiam and Cary had failed to carry out the mission.


    Liam and Cary painted a grim picture of the bizarre and heartless ways Brenna had toyed with them to Jade.


    Liam, a fully grown man, unable to hold back his tears, murmured shakily,


    ¡°She imed to have poisoned us and insisted we return to her every twenty-four hours for an antidote.¡±


    Visibly annoyed, Jade pped him across the face.


    ¡°You idiot! That so-called poison was likely just vitamin C! What were you thinking? Who carries actual poison around? Did you feel any real symptoms after taking it?¡±


    After pausing to think, Liam admitted, his voice wavering,


    ¡°No.¡±


    The only real pain he felt stemmed from the gunshot wound on his thigh. It dawned on him that Brenna¡¯s ploy had tricked himpletely. However, her tormenting methods were beyond what anyone could imagine. Just thinking about that gave him chills.


    Edward, who had been quietly observing the exchange, gave a discreet nod to the bodyguard dressed in ck by the door. Without hesitation, the bodyguard pulled out his gun and executed Liam and Cary with precise shots to their heads.


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    Turning to Jade with a dismissive flick of his hand, Edward said,


    ¡°These two were dispensable. Jade, head over to that hotel and kill Brenna. And bring backup with you.¡±


    With a faint trace of interest, he cast a skeptical nce toward Jade. His expression betrayed his growing doubts about herpetence.


    Jade could feel the weight of his expectations pressing down on her. Failure to eliminate Brenna this time would not only diminish her standing in Edward¡¯s eyes but might also jeopardize her im to her future inheritance.


    With resolve steeling her voice, she dered,


    ¡°I will kill Brenna, no matter the cost.¡±


    In that decisive moment, she resolved to sacrifice even Ethan if it meant ensuring Brenna¡¯s downfall.


    She quickly rallied more than twenty of her most skilled subordinates and led them to Brenna¡¯sst known location at the hotel. But upon arrival, they discovered that Brenna had already checked out.


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 Chapter 564

    ?Chapter 564:


    ¡°Move out! To the Empire Hotel!¡± Jademanded with authority.


    The Empire Hotel, a property belonging to Ethan in Plieca, was likely Brenna¡¯s new refuge¡ªespecially since Ethan was probably also there.


    The group hurried downstairs, and as Jade burst through the hotel lobby doors, she caught a glimpse of someone slipping away from her car, unaware of what they had done.


    She approached the car without a second thought, only to be greeted by the ominous ticking of a countdown. It dawned on her toote that she was hearing a bomb.


    Before she could retreat, a thunderous explosion erupted, unleashing a searing wave of heat. The car was engulfed in mes, and the st flipped it violently, tearing it apart. Amidst the chaos, shards of the car¡ªand tragically, pieces of Jade herself¡ªwere hurled skyward.


    Meanwhile, a safe distance down the road, Brenna coolly drove away, her eyes fixed ahead, leaving the scene behind her.


    The bomb had been provided by Thiago¡¯s friend.


    Inside the car, Ethan said to Brenna,


    ¡°I was unaware you were participating in the trade forum as well. I didn¡¯t protect you well.¡±


    Brenna rested her head gently on Ethan¡¯s shoulder, replying,


    ¡°There¡¯s no need for apologies. I should be thanking you for rescuing me.¡±


    Ethan offered a slight smile, admitting,


    ¡°I¡¯ve never been fond of Jade. It¡¯s problematic to take action within our own borders, but overseas, it¡¯s easier to do that.¡±


    A hint of concern colored Brenna¡¯s tone.


    ¡°What about the person helping us? Could he face difficulties fleeing?¡±


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    Ethanforted her with a gentle pat on the hand, saying,


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. All arrangements are in ce. He¡¯s set to depart on an early flight at dawn. Moreover, I¡¯ve neutralized the nearby surveince. The authorities won¡¯t discover he did it for at least three days. By then, he¡¯ll already be gone.¡±


    Upon their arrival at the Empire Hotel, Brenna¡¯s eyes caught a familiar sight beside the hotel¡¯s doorman.


    ¡°Brenna, what brings you here as well?¡± Rosie inquired with curiosity, her attire refined,plemented by the presence of a strikingly handsome mixed-race man.


    Brenna was unfamiliar with the man at Rosie¡¯s side.


    Rosie clung to the man¡¯s arm, her every move dripping with affection. Brenna shot the mixed-race man a cool, questioning gaze before turning her attention to Rosie.


    ¡°And who might this be?¡±


    Rosie offered a polite smile, her voice tinged with secrecy.


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid I can¡¯t say; his identity is a bit sensitive.¡±


    Just then, Ethan approached from the other side of the car, and the mixed-race man extended his hand to greet him.


    ¡°Hello, Mr. Mitchell.¡±


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 Chapter 565

    ?Chapter 565:


    With a teasing glint in his eyes, Ethan spared Rosie a fleeting look but said nothing, pretending he didn¡¯t know her. He then turned smoothly to greet the man.


    ¡°Hello, Prince Maxley. It¡¯s an honor.¡±


    Prince Maxley, a distinguished figure in his thirties, was a known member of Plieca¡¯s royal lineage and the sessor to the crown. A flicker of recognition crossed Brenna¡¯s face. She might not have known Maxley personally, but his reputation certainly preceded him. She shared a nce with Rosie.


    Rosie, slightly red-faced, had failed in her attempt to unt her connections. Originally, she had hoped to make Brenna feel outssed for not knowing a member of royalty. However, the tables had turned when Maxley acknowledged Ethan first. Rosie was taken aback¡ªhow had she not known of Ethan¡¯s rapport with Maxley?


    With a soft touch, Brenna rested her hand on Ethan¡¯s arm.


    Ethan responded with a tender smile, his gaze warm, as he introduced her to Maxley.


    ¡°This is my girlfriend, Brenna.¡±


    Unfazed by her earlier difort, Rosie attempted to undermine Brenna in front of Maxley.


    ¡°This is my parents¡¯ biological daughter, who was only recently discovered after being lost for over twenty years. She has endured quite a bit.¡±


    Maxley, initially reaching out to shake Brenna¡¯s hand, paused midgesture and withdrew his hand, his actions speaking volumes. Clearly, he deemed Brenna unworthy of a simple handshake with him.


    Maxley¡¯s attitude shifted to one of arrogance, his gaze toward Brenna cold and dismissive.


    Brenna kept her silence, knowing she couldn¡¯t control how others saw her. A brief exchange of nces with Rosie revealed more than intended¡ªRosie¡¯s carefully chosen words had inadvertently reopened Brenna¡¯s old scars.


    Given Rosie¡¯s adeptness in social circles, Brenna couldn¡¯t shake the nagging suspicion that Rosie had said those things on purpose earlier.


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    Ethan¡¯s demeanor cooled significantly as he caught Maxley¡¯s tant disrespect toward Brenna. The friendly smile that had been ying on his lips vanished.


    Maxley, however, seemed indifferent to Ethan¡¯s stiffening expression. In Brenna¡¯s presence, he boldly stated, ¡°Mr. Mitchell, honestly, she doesn¡¯t quite match up to someone of your stature. With your prominence, you should aspire to marry someone as esteemed as a Fortune 500 executive¡¯s daughter. Her modest upbringing andck of noble heritage hardly align with someone of your elevated rank.¡±


    Assuming Brenna didn¡¯t understand thenguage he was speaking, Maxley continued to belittle her, his wordsced with condescension and sarcasm.


    He then shifted his haughty look to a more neutral expression as he faced Ethan, suggesting earnestly, ¡°Consider my sister¡ªroyalty by birth and a sessful businesswoman. She would undoubtedlyplement your distinguished status far better. In three days, the royal family of Plieca will host a grand business gathering. Mr. Mitchell, it would be my honor to have you join us. I am eager for you to meet my sister, whose striking beauty and sharp intellect are sure to enchant you.¡±


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 Chapter 566

    ?Chapter 566:


    Brenna kept her face carefully nk, pretending not to understand what he said. Given Maxley¡¯s status as a prince and the probable future king, she preferred to avoid any unnecessary disputes.


    His remarks were biting, yet since they bore no direct consequence for her, she chose to disregard them.


    Behind her, Thiago, Joe, and Tommy bristled with anger. If not for Brenna¡¯s restraint, they would have confronted Maxley without a second thought.


    Ethan absorbed Maxley¡¯s words with patience, then firmly took Brenna¡¯s hand, showing his resolve. ¡°I am thoroughly content with my girlfriend. I appreciate your invitation, but my heart is alreadymitted.¡±


    With that deration, he guided Brenna towards the hotel.


    Maxley responded with a resigned shrug and a shake of his head, baffled by Ethan¡¯s unwavering dedication to Brenna.


    Rosie said to him, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Mr. Mitchell will give what you said some thought. No one turns down an invite from Plieca¡¯s royals. Princess Leia is the world¡¯s gem, ten times more charming than Brenna. Once Mr. Mitchell sees her, he¡¯s bound to fall for her.¡±


    Maxley responded with a nod, ¡°Indeed, once he meets her, he¡¯ll understand who truly deserves to be by his side for life. Moreover, the advantages of allying with Plieca¡¯s royalty are not to be underestimated.¡±


    Stepping into the elevator, Brenna broke her silence. ¡°Do you reckon Rosie and Maxley emerging from the hotel together means they slept togetherst night?¡±


    Ethanughed lightly, his eyes twinkling with amusement at Brenna¡¯s inquisitive gaze. ¡°Since when did you start delving into such gossip? I thought you steered clear of discussing such things.¡±


    She shot Ethan a cool look. ¡°No, it¡¯s not that. Remember how set Rosie was on marrying you? What could¡¯ve made her change her heart like that?¡±


    The amusement on Ethan¡¯s face dimmed as he dialed the hotel staff to probe the reason behind Rosie and Maxley¡¯s presence here and whether they had spent the night together.


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    Momentster, as Brenna and Ethan arrived at their room, Ethan¡¯s phone buzzed with a response. Rosie had indeed reserved a suite but had left at midnight to visit the presidential suite at the pinnacle of the hotel, departing just fifteen minutes ago with Maxley.


    Ethan had activated the speakerphone when he answered the call, and after disconnecting, he turned to Brenna. ¡°Satisfied now?¡±


    Brenna responded with a nod. ¡°Your team is impressively quick. I honestly didn¡¯t expect Rosie to sleep with someone else in your hotel. It looks like she has lost all hope of winning your heart, not even bothering to hide her actions.¡±


    As they stepped into the room, Ethan shared more news. ¡°The royal family of Plieca is conducting a global search to find a wife for Maxley. It seems Rosie is setting her sights on that.¡±


    Caught off guard, Brenna, who had been preupied with other matters, hadn¡¯t kept up with the royal affairs.


    ¡°Rosie doesn¡¯t actually believe that sleeping with Maxley will secure her the status, does she?¡± Brenna doubted Rosie was naive enough to believe that. She must have other ns.


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 Chapter 567

    ?Chapter 567:


    Ethan shook his head, showing disinterest in Rosie¡¯s intentions. He was only concerned about Brenna¡¯s well-being.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you rest for a bit? I¡¯ll wake you at seven,¡± he suggested gently. ¡°And don¡¯t worry about dinner; you can have anything you like. After all, this is my hotel.¡±


    Brenna paused to think for a moment. ¡°Anything¡¯s fine, really. I¡¯m not picky.¡±


    Brenna thought Rosie and Maxley had left, but as she made her way to the trade forum after breakfast, she spotted Rosie again, lingering casually in the restaurant downstairs.


    ¡°Congrattions. You are about to be Maxley¡¯s wife soon,¡± Brenna said, her toneced with irony.


    Rosie¡¯sughter was tinged with triumph. ¡°Ah, you¡¯re sharper than I gave you credit for. Once I be his wife, rest assured, you¡¯ll be well looked after. We are family, after all.¡±


    Rosie extracted a stunningly designed invitation from her purse, its deep blue surface catching the morning sunlight and reflecting golden hues so intense that they were almost blinding.


    ¡°Look what¡¯se from the royal family of Plieca¡ªan invitation to a grand business g happening in three days. Prince Maxley mentioned that many high society women are invited. The g, it seems, is a guise for selecting potential candidates for Maxley¡¯s wife,¡± she said.


    Her face alight with pride, Rosie exuded an air of superiority, seeing Brenna as a nobody. It wasn¡¯t that long ago that Rosie had been living under the Harper family¡¯s roof because of their kindness. But now, with the prospect of bing Prince Maxley¡¯s wife, she envisioned a future where the Harper family would seek her favor.


    With a wicked spark in her eyes, Rosie contemted the downfall she would orchestrate for Brenna. The moment she ascended as the prince¡¯s wife, she would ensure the Harper family regretted their dismissive treatment of her.


    If the Harper family groveled for her favor, perhaps she would consider tossing a few profitable ventures their way¡ªher idea of mercy. The thought alone washed away years of indignities she had suffered at their hands, recing bitterness with sweet anticipation. Looking at Brenna now, she felt Brenna was not so hard to deal with.


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    With no need to pretend anymore, she shed her polite mask right in front of Brenna.


    Brenna remained stoic, her face betraying no emotion. Unimpressed by Rosie¡¯s scheming, she was certain Rosie¡¯s n would ultimately fail. Although not closely connected to the royal family of Plieca, she had enough encounters with them to understand their stringent focus on the status and background of the people entering their family.


    Rosie might bear the Harper name¡ªa family among the top twenty of Vand¡¯s elite¡ªbut with her parents gone and her having only a modest inheritance, her chances of bing the prince¡¯s wife seemed slim.


    Was she actually pinning her hopes on that one-night encounter with Prince Maxley?


    That wasughable.


    Raising her ss with a sardonic smile, Brenna toasted. ¡°To your triumph. Should you actually ascend to royalty, don¡¯t forget about me.¡± Her voice was thick with irony.


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 Chapter 568

    ?Chapter 568:


    Rosie mistakenly assumed Brenna was just jealous and speaking out of bitterness. She smirked, lifting her chin high. ¡°Your future depends on your behavior, and that is currently unsatisfactory. Show me the deference I deserve, and perhaps I¡¯ll consider helping you in the future. Consider this a piece of friendly advice¡ªcross me during this delicate time, and I won¡¯t be forgiving.¡±


    At that moment, Ethan¡¯s car glided to a halt beside Brenna. He rolled down the window with a smooth gesture, his face breaking into a warm smile as he invited her to join him in the car.


    Rosie¡¯s spirits plummeted at the sight, though her interest in Ethan had long since faded. Poised to join Plieca¡¯s royal family, she viewed Ethan as little more than a future servant, worthy of her notice only when she deemed fit.


    Brenna, observing Rosie¡¯s reaction, could only shake her head in disbelief at the depth of Rosie¡¯s delusions.


    ¡°Well, you¡¯d best ensure you¡¯re Prince Maxley¡¯s unrivaled choice. Best of luck with that,¡± Brenna said before she slid into the car.


    Rosie advanced a few steps, her confidence undiminished, her voice carrying an air of certainty. ¡°Prince Maxley has already told me I would be his wife. Just you wait, Brenna, Ethan. Soon, you¡¯ll both be kneeling, desperately begging at my feet, pleading for my grace.¡±


    Ethan couldn¡¯t suppress his derision. ¡°You¡¯ve really lost your mind.¡± With a shake of his head, he pressed the elerator, and the car surged forward, leaving Rosie in its wake.


    ¡°Don¡¯t let her get to you; she¡¯s lost touch with reality,¡± Ethan said to Brenna, attempting to console her. From a distance, he had witnessed Rosie¡¯s haughty behavior earlier and knew she hadn¡¯t said anything good to Brenna.


    Brenna responded with a wry smile. ¡°She believes that one night with Prince Maxley has secured her a royal title. She¡¯s blind to the fact that it¡¯s a contest of lineage and influence. How utterly naive. Without the backing of the Harper family, her dreams of bing his wife are absolutely ridiculous.¡±


    Ethan nodded, his agreement evident. ¡°Right. She used to have some sense, but now, she¡¯s just delusional. I bet Prince Maxley whispered a bunch of sweet lies to her while they were in bed. No wonder she fell for him so hard. Did you see? She even talked to me with that arrogant attitude just now!¡±


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    Brenna quipped, a mischievous glint in her eye, ¡°Feeling a bit forlorn about that? Disappointed, perhaps?¡±


    Ethan chuckled, shaking his head dismissively. ¡°Not in the slightest. Just you wait¡ªthree days from now, when the royal family of Plieca picks the prince¡¯s wife, she¡¯s bound to make a spectacle of herself. The higher she holds her head now, the steeper her fall will be then. I¡¯ve snagged an invite to the event. You shoulde along and enjoy the debacle.¡±


    A smile flickered across Brenna¡¯s face, her spirits buoyed by the prospect of that. ¡°That sounds delightful. But tell me, should I extend a helping hand when her moment of disgrace arrives? If I stand back, she might tarnish the Harper family¡¯s name. Yet, I find myself quite reluctant to assist her.¡±


    Ethan briefly removed one hand from the steering wheel to sp hers, relishing the proximity and warmth.


    He said, ¡°Your brothers and father will be in attendance, too. No matter what you choose, whether to lend her a hand or not, there¡¯s no reason for you to worry about the matter. Just lean back and enjoy the drama. Meanwhile, you could spend the next few days ttering her, making her think she¡¯s on her way to bing the prince¡¯s wife.¡±


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 Chapter 569

    ?Chapter 569:


    With a mischievous grin, Brenna squeezed Ethan¡¯s hand. ¡°You¡¯re absolutely merciless, you know? After all these years she has treated you like family, here you are, so indifferent to her, just watching her walk into a catastrophe.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s smirk widened. ¡°Well, she¡¯s dug her own grave. After the way she treated you in front of everyone, what did she expect?¡±


    The news of Jade¡¯s death barely sent a ripple through the waters of Plieca. All morning, Brenna had been glued to her phone, anxiously awaiting updates. In fact, she had gone so far as to download the most popr local news app, hoping for some word on the incident. Yet, as she stepped into the bustling venue for the economic and trade forum, her phone remained silent, with no news about Jade¡¯s death. It was as if Jade¡¯s tragedy had slipped through the cracks of public consciousness. Instead, the air buzzed with excitement over the presence of various business tycoons, the real stars of the day.


    Brenna, a shadow in the international financial scene, had always preferred to operate under the radar. She often used a pseudonym for her significant endeavors, seldom revealing her true identity. This cloak of anonymity had kept her name from circting widely, resulting in few people recognizing her. As she gracefully entered the venue and took her seat, shemanded attention solely through her striking beauty and young age.


    Among the sea of seasoned industry leaders, who had toiled for years to reach their current heights, Brenna stood out as an exception. In her early twenties, she had already earned her ce at the table, a testament to her remarkable talent. Ethan settled into the seat next to hers.


    People kepting over to greet Brenna, and they were all men. Ethan wore a dark expression throughout, deliberately resting his hand on the back of Brenna¡¯s chair, a silent deration of possession. With that simple gesture, the throng of admirers vying for Brenna¡¯s attention sharply dwindled.


    Brenna was surprised to discover that Ethan was one of the keynote speakers at the opening ceremony.


    On stage, Ethan spoke with unwavering confidence, delivering his entire address without a single note, infused with passion. He dissected the current economdscape, unraveling theplexities of market trends, and illuminated the innovative economic models set to redefine the future. His thought-provoking speech, which spanned a full ten minutes, culminated in a resounding wave of apuse that echoed through the auditorium.


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    As he returned to his seat, a hint of pride crept into his voice. ¡°So, how did I do? Wasn¡¯t I fantastic just now?¡±


    Brenna said, ¡°Come on, don¡¯t let that ego swell too much. But I can¡¯t deny that you were incredible!¡±


    She shed him a thumbs-up and quickly pecked him on the cheek.


    Ethan was momentarily taken aback. Brenna had kissed him!


    He gently brushed his fingers over the spot where her lips had met his skin, a rush of joy coursing through him as he felt like the luckiest man alive.


    Recently, both Brenna and Ethan had been caught in a whirlwind of activity. They were either locked in meetings or hammering out project negotiations, often returning to the hotel well past one in the morning.


    To secure more deals, Brenna deftly navigated the business world using both her real name and her alias, quickly capturing the interest of several financial titans.


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 Chapter 570

    ?Chapter 570:


    Thiago, Joe, and Tommy were also swamped with work. Brenna decided that the three of them would take the lead on following up with the uing projects.


    Even at the stroke of midnight, the four of them remained engrossed in a meeting.


    Thiago said,


    ¡°After sifting through these projects, we need to expand our team. Our current staffing can¡¯t possibly handle the workload.¡±


    Tommy nodded in agreement, saying,


    ¡°I believe Shirie University is home to a wealth of talented graduate students. Bringing them on board would certainly be a smart move. In fact, I¡¯ve already received several r¨¦sum¨¦s and shortlisted some promising candidates. I¡¯ll reach out to them for interviews once we¡¯re back.¡±


    The four of them discussed the matter until the early hours, finally calling it a night around two in the morning.


    Brenna awoke before the sun rose, ready for another roundtable meeting.


    By six that evening, she had slipped into a stunning silver-gray, form-fitting gown and headed to the business banquet with Ethan.


    The event was a star-studded affair, drawing an array of guests from business magnates to political figures and even royalty from various nations. As soon as Brenna entered the venue, her eyesnded on the Princess of Orwall.


    Rosie, eager to impress, stood next to the princess, but her attempts to curry favor fell t as the princess¡¯s attention drifted toward Brenna and Ethan.


    Realizing the princess was more interested in Brenna and Ethan than in her, Rosie felt a pang of embarrassment.


    She quickly said,


    ¡°Princess Anna, you may not know her. That is Brenna Harper. She is my parents¡¯ biological daughter, just recently acknowledged by them. She spent her early years in the countryside and isn¡¯t quite familiar with high society¡¯s ways. Events like this can make her a bit anxious, so I hope you won¡¯t hold it¡­¡±


    ¡°Against her if she acts out. Honestly, it¡¯s my fault for not keeping a closer eye on her and letting here to an event like this.¡±


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    With a sharine smile, she added,


    ¡°She probably doesn¡¯t even have an invitation. I¡¯ll have her leave right away.¡±


    Without waiting for Princess Anna to respond, Rosie marched over to Brenna and scolded her loudly,


    ¡°What are you doing here? Do you even know what this event is? You¡¯re embarrassing the Harper family bying here! You can¡¯t just waltz in without an invitation. Even if you¡¯re with the world¡¯s richest man, that doesn¡¯t give you the right to attend a top-tier event uninvited.¡±


    People around them turned to look.


    Realizing she had seeded in her scheme, Rosie eagerly anticipated the moment when Brenna would stumble over herck of an invitation. Not only would Brenna face humiliation and bebeled a gatecrasher, but Ethan would also find himself in a difficult situation for having brought her along.


    Feeling a surge of triumph, Rosie waited for Brenna to be humiliated.


    However, with a calm demeanor, Brenna replied,


    .


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 Chapter 571

    ?Chapter 571:


    ¡°What are you talking about? I was invited here.¡±


    Rosie scoffed,


    ¡°Invited? Seriously? Do you honestly believe you¡¯re on the guest list just because you own a couple of small studios? Take a good look at the crowd here today. You don¡¯t belong here. Or do you really think you can be here because you are a Harper? Wake up! You have always been and will always be a nobody. Honestly, you should leave before they toss you out.¡±


    Rosie was itching to unload all the grievances she had bottled up regarding the Harper family onto Brenna. Originally, Shepard and Ernst were ted to return today, but as the hours ticked by, their absence seemed more certain.


    Their no-show only bolstered Rosie¡¯s confidence, igniting a spark of belief that she could publicly humiliate Brenna in front of a crowd.


    She relished the moment as disdainful nces rained down on Brenna, with even those who once stood close to her beginning to move away.


    Brenna remainedposed. She pulled a prestigious gold ticket from her bag, holding it delicately between her index and middle fingers before presenting it to Rosie.


    ¡°Take a look. I was invited.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not possible!¡± Rosie shouted, her voice a storm.


    She knew there were two kinds of royal invitations from Plieca. One was blue, themoner¡¯s ticket, while the other was a coveted VIP ticket, rumored to be crafted from two grams of pure gold each.


    Among the throng of over three hundred guests, only a handful held VIP tickets. Even Ethan, the wealthiest man in the world, only had the blue one. It was unfathomable that Brenna could possess a gold one.


    Rosie scoffed with a mockingugh, casting a disdainful nce at the card without bothering to take it.


    ¡°It¡¯s a fake, isn¡¯t it? Someone like you couldn¡¯t possibly have a supreme VIP ticket. If I¡¯m not mistaken, those tickets are crafted from pure gold. Did you whip one up yourself?¡±


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    She turned to the nearby security guard.


    ¡°Verify this ticket now.¡±


    The guard¡¯s expression darkened at her tant disrespect for the VIP guests. Rosie¡¯s demand to inspect Brenna¡¯s invitation was a double-edged insult, cutting both at Brenna¡¯s status and at the guards¡¯ hard-earned professionalism.


    How could they not tell the difference between a genuine ticket and a counterfeit? That would be an unforgivable blunder.


    Every guest¡¯s invitation was meticulously cross-checked against the VIP database.


    There was no room for error.


    ¡°This ticket is genuine,¡± the security guard said, his tone firm.


    Rosie¡¯s fury red, and she turned her ire on him.


    ¡°Did you even bother to inspect her invitation? I don¡¯t think she has shown it since she walked in. If that invitation is fake, you could find yourself out of a job for such negligence.¡±


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 Chapter 572

    ?Chapter 572:


    At that moment, Maxley walked over. He was elegantly attired in a pristine white suit that radiated sophistication. A royal-exclusive pin from Plieca adorned hispel, catching the light with a subtle glimmer. With an undeniable air of authority, he surveyed the gathering.


    ¡°What¡¯s happening here?¡±


    Maxley had caught wind that someone had slipped in with a counterfeit VIP ticket, never suspecting it would be Brenna. He wore a look of disdain as he nced at her.


    ¡°Miss Harper, we meet again. Are you the one with the fake invitation?¡±


    Brenna extended her invitation toward Maxley, but like Rosie, he refused to take it.


    ¡°My invitation is real,¡± Brenna said. ¡°It has the King¡¯s signature.¡±


    Though puzzled, as she had no ties or dealings with the Plieca royal family, she knew the King had personally invited her.


    Maxley nced at the invitation. While others might struggle to discern its authenticity, he could immediately spot the royal anti-counterfeit mark, a feature known only to insiders and impossible for outsiders to replicate.


    He clenched his fists, acutely aware of the delicate nature of offending a guest personally invited by his father.


    His father had many sons, and while he was a candidate for the throne, he wasn¡¯t the only one.


    The King could easily choose someone else.


    To the outside world, he appeared to be the likely heir, but that was merely a carefully crafted image by him.


    ¡°Darling, her invitation must be a forgery. Have security escort her out,¡± Rosie urged,pletely disregarding the Harper family¡¯s reputation. She was eager to leverage her connection with Maxley to humiliate Brenna in front of the crowd.


    Ethan looked at Rosie with a dark, brooding gaze. In fact, he was also surprised that Brenna was a VIP guest.


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    He stepped protectively in front of Brenna, ready to whisk her away if anyone overstepped and prepared to sever all business ties with the Plieca royal family.


    With a smug smile, Rosie said to Maxley,


    ¡°What are you waiting for, darling? Just toss this uninvited person out and have her arrested! Replicating a royal invitation is a serious offense, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°Enough!¡± Maxley snapped at Rosie, his voice sharp.


    ¡°This invitation is genuine, penned by my father himself. It is not fake.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s smile faltered, disbelief shing in her eyes as she stared at Maxley.


    ¡°It can¡¯t be. As far as I know, she¡ª¡±


    ¡°What about her?¡±


    Amanding, aged voice interrupted. Everyone turned to see the King of Plieca, Ann Gibran, walk over in a white suit, surrounded by royal members.


    Upon seeing the old man, Brenna understood why she was a VIP guest.


    ¡°It¡¯s been a while!¡± she eximed, memories flooding back of the injured old man she had unexpectedly saved in Nolview years ago, who had turned out to be none other than the King of Plieca.


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 Chapter 573

    ?Chapter 573:


    Adam scrutinized Brenna from head to toe.


    ¡°You have certainly changed your style since ourst encounter.¡±


    He chose not to delve into the specifics of that day, wary of stirring unwanted curiosity about Brenna. It sufficed for others to recognize her as his honored guest.


    Years ago in Orwall, he had found himself in a relentless chase. Vicious des had left their marks on him, and he had been cornered in a deste alley with nowhere to escape. It was there that fate intervened, bringing him face to face with Brenna. d in sleek ck leather and wielding a weapon with confidence, she was a sight to behold. She radiated raw power. With swift and precise movements, she killed several attackers.


    Having witnessed Brenna¡¯s fierce and decisive maneuvers, he had been certain she would end his life to keep him quiet. However, Brenna not only spared him but also took the time to tend to his wounds with remarkable care and gave him a life-saving pill.


    Concerned about potential further attacks, Brenna had guided him to a safehouse and helped him reconnect with his people before taking her leave.


    Had he not crossed paths with Brenna that fateful day, he would surely have met his end. Later, he had learned that it was his eldest son who had plotted the assassination.


    Brenna chuckled softly. At that time, she had been pursued by the Ward family, and saving him had merely been a fortuitous decision. She hadn¡¯t given a thought to his status back then.


    The guests gathered today were all affluent and influential figures. Curiosity buzzed around Brenna, with many discreetly snapping photos of her and scouring the inte for information. They soon discovered that she was a young entrepreneur in finance and an engineer.


    After exchanging pleasantries with Brenna, Adam turned his gaze to Ethan, whom he recognized. Everyone in the room knew Ethan as the world¡¯s richest man.


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell, you are really lucky to be Miss Harper¡¯s boyfriend,¡± Adam said.


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    Ethan still couldn¡¯t grasp why the King of Plieca held Brenna in such high esteem. But this wasn¡¯t the time to ask too many questions.


    ¡°You¡¯re right. I am lucky to be her boyfriend,¡± Ethan replied with a lightheartedugh.


    Rosie seethed with discontent.


    What made Brenna so fortunate as to be honored as a distinguished guest in Plieca?


    She rushed forward to voice her thoughts.


    ¡°Your Majesty¡ª¡±


    But before she could borate, Maxley pulled her back. Turning to him, she met his stern gaze, filled with reproach and displeasure.


    Rosie dared not defy Maxley and reluctantly fell silent, her eyes fixed on Brenna as she spoke to the King as if he were her friend.


    It was infuriating. Rosie had arrived early, poised to be the future wife of Maxley, yet she hadn¡¯t even met the King before today.


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 Chapter 574

    ?Chapter 574:


    The more Rosie thought about this, the more resentment she harbored toward Brenna.


    Adam had a multitude of guests to engage with, so after a brief exchange with Brenna, he walked away.


    Maxley smiled as he bid Adam farewell. Once the King was out of sight, he turned his attention back to Brenna. A twinge of unease gnawed at him; he recognized that his earlier arrogance and rudeness toward her had been a grave misstep. Yet, given his status, he didn¡¯t want to apologize to Brenna.


    Frustrated, he directed his anger at Rosie and pped her.


    Rosie covered her face after the p, holding back any protest. She even apologized,


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I truly had no idea Brenna was close to the King.¡±


    Brenna and Ethan strolled past Rosie, exchanging knowing smilesced with disdain. They soon moved toward the banquet hall.


    Maxley let out a derisive snort at Rosie. He quickened his pace, hurrying after Brenna and Ethan, a sense of urgency driving him to seek a moment to rify his earlier boorish behavior toward Brenna.


    Rosie stood frozen, acutely aware of the nces from those around her, a surge of anger rising within her. She snapped at the onlookers,


    ¡°Mind your own business!¡±


    The crowd around her quickly dispersed.


    Rosie was determined not to be misunderstood or abandoned by Maxley. She watched as he chatted amiably with Brenna and Ethan on the steps, clearly trying to win their favor.


    If she could just apologize to Brenna and exin her actions, perhaps Maxley would forgive her and still marry her. After all, she and Brenna were family.


    Suppressing her anger and resentment, she walked over with purpose. Her expression was warm, her movements smooth as she reached the top and took Brenna¡¯s arm, regardless of Brenna¡¯s willingness.


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    ¡°Brenna, Ethan, I¡¯m sorry for the misunderstanding.¡±


    Brenna couldn¡¯t help but let out a coldugh, gently pulling her arm away.


    ¡°So I¡¯m not a nobody to you anymore?¡±


    Rosie leaned in, whispering in Vand¡¯snguage,


    ¡°We¡¯re family. When I be Maxley¡¯s wife, you¡¯ll benefit too. Don¡¯t be so mean to me. Just ept my apology.¡±


    Her tone was less of a request and more of amand.


    ¡°Your tone doesn¡¯t sound like an apology,¡± Brenna replied coolly.


    Rosie, still smiling, took hold of Brenna¡¯s arm again, this time gripping it tightly, not letting her pull away.


    Maxley didn¡¯t understand theirnguage, but seeing their interaction, he assumed Brenna had epted Rosie¡¯s apology. Given the King¡¯s respect for Brenna, he realized he also needed to ingratiate himself with her, which meant he couldn¡¯t cast Rosie aside just yet. So, his attitude toward Rosie softened a bit.


    Despite Brenna¡¯s evident reluctance, Rosie yanked her closer, wearing a veneer of friendliness. Rosie didn¡¯t harbor even a shred of remorse over her earlier public humiliation of Brenna. She simply clung to the belief that, as members of the Harper family, they should stick together in public.


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 Chapter 575

    ?Chapter 575:


    Moreover, since Brenna wasn¡¯t resisting her gesture, Rosie confidently assumed she wouldn¡¯t dare retaliate. After all, she couldn¡¯t risk stirring up trouble or making a bad impression on the King.


    Just as Rosie basked in her apparent triumph, convinced she had everything under control, Brenna abruptly withdrew her hand.


    Rosie¡¯s annoyance flickered sharply as she hissed, her voice heavy with reproach,


    ¡°What do you think you are doing? People might think there are serious internal conflicts within the Harper family.¡±


    Without warning, Brenna delivered a light but unmistakable p to Rosie¡¯s cheek. Loudly and defiantly, she fired back in fluent Pliecan,


    ¡°Are you serious? You just humiliated me in front of all these guests as I walked in, calling me a worthless nobody, someone who shouldn¡¯t even breathe the same air as these people. It¡¯s barely been a few minutes. Have you already forgotten what you did to me? And now you think we are family? Did I suddenly be good enough for this ce in your eyes?¡±


    Rosie¡¯s cheeks flushed with humiliation. She felt a rare sting¡ªunfamiliar to someone used to dishing out cutting remarks without consequence. As a member of the Harper family, she was ustomed to others biting their tongues, too intimidated by her status to p back. Never had she been so publicly humiliated.


    ¡°We are family, Brenna! What the hell are you doing? Have you lost your mind?¡± Rosie hissed in Vand¡¯snguage. She leaned closer, urgently whispering,


    ¡°Apologize to me right now. Say you were wrong before this mess spirals out of control!¡±


    However, Brenna just raised her chin and loudly said,


    ¡°You insulted me first. Why should I apologize to you? It¡¯s you who owes me an apology.¡±


    Her voice was pitched deliberately loud enough for everyone to hear. Moreover, she spoke clearly in Pliecan to make sure everyone understood her.


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    Rosie¡¯s blood boiled with rage. Turning abruptly, she shook Maxley¡¯s arm and pleaded with him desperately in Pliecan,


    ¡°She insulted me! She is nothing but some country bumpkin who shouldn¡¯t even breathe the same air as these global¡ª¡±


    Titans of business and politics. Aren¡¯t you going to step in and do something? She is trampling all over my dignity now. Help me out!¡±


    She couldn¡¯t care less about what Maxley thought. She was certain that after everything, he was satisfied with her in bed and intended to make her his wife. Therefore, she was sure he would jump to her defense without hesitation.


    Maxley¡¯s anger red hotter than Rosie¡¯s. He realized she had been lying to him the whole time. If it hadn¡¯t been for her lies about Brenna, he never would have offended her. And by doing so, he had also offended the richest man in the world, Ethan. It was all Rosie¡¯s fault. Maxley was beyond furious.


    Without thinking, he raised his hand and pped Rosie hard. Unlike Brenna¡¯s light p, this one came down with full force.


    Blood trickled from Rosie¡¯s mouth, and half her face swelled up immediately.


    ¡°Get the hell out of here!¡± Maxley growled, struggling to keep his rage under control. Without hesitation, he kicked Rosie, sending her stumbling back. Then, with an icy flick of his wrist, he signaled for the security personnel to remove her.


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 Chapter 576

    ?Chapter 576:


    Two guards moved quickly, grabbing Rosie and dragging her out without a hint of respect.


    Rosie¡¯s first thought was that she couldn¡¯t lose her chance to be Maxley¡¯s wife.


    ¡°Your Highness, you promised me you would make me your wife!¡± she eximed.


    The people around her only shook their heads when they heard her words. Some stared at her coldly, making sure to remember her face so they could avoid her in any future business dealings.


    Still seething after being thrown out, Rosie cursed in Brenna¡¯s direction for what felt like an eternity before her fury finally subsided.


    After thinking carefully, she realized Brenna had ruined her carefully crafted n. And she couldn¡¯t let Brenna get away with it.


    Grabbing her phone, she quickly dialed Jade¡¯s number.


    But the call went unanswered.


    Rosie¡¯s frustration boiled over.


    ¡°What the hell is going on? Disappearing at the worst possible moment? Answer the damn phone!¡±


    She finally gave up after trying several times with the same frustrating result. She knew where Jade lived in Plieca and decided to go and see her.


    Now that she had thoroughly offended Brenna, the situation had spiraled out of control. If Brenna made it back to Vand, Rosie knew without a doubt she would no longer be able to remain in the Harper family.


    Therefore, she believed she had to kill Brenna here.


    If she had managed to be Maxley¡¯s wife, she could have proudly paraded around the Harper family for some time. But now, Maxley had abandoned her, and she had also made an enemy of Brenna, leaving her with no option but to live a pitiable life.


    She refused to ept such a fate.


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    Determined, she hailed a taxi and headed straight for Jade¡¯s residence. To Rosie¡¯s surprise, there were more bodyguards than usual stationed outside. All of them wore stern expressions, their postures tense as if something serious had happened.


    Rosie tried to speak to the stone-faced guards, but they ignored her. When she attempted to force her way in, the bodyguards blocked her path and pushed her back.


    ¡°Miss Hewitt, it¡¯s me, Rosie. I have information about Brenna!¡± Rosie shouted, hoping to get Jade¡¯s attention.


    Right now, Jade was her only hope of dealing with Brenna.


    She shouted for what felt like ages, but Jade never appeared. Refusing to back down, she continued yelling.


    At longst, a middle-aged man stepped out of the house.


    ¡°Miss Hewitt is already dead. You should leave.¡±


    Rosie froze.


    ¡°What?¡±


    The thought of losing her only ally sent a wave of disbelief crashing over her.


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 Chapter 577

    ?Chapter 577:


    ¡°How? When did she die?¡± She was genuinely shocked by the news.


    The middle-aged man¡¯s expression hardened even further. He was clearly displeased by Rosie¡¯s questions.


    ¡°She died this morning. She was blown up at the entrance of the Empire Hotel.¡±


    Rosie stood there in shock, unable to process the sudden and tragic news of Jade¡¯s death. She stayed frozen for a long moment before finally managing to collect herself.


    Jade had been the only person capable of handling Brenna, and now, she was gone.


    ¡°Who could have done this?¡± Rosie muttered. She had always suspected the Hewitt family was involved in the criminal underworld, and it wasn¡¯t hard to imagine they had made plenty of enemies. Maybe someone hade back for revenge.


    It never crossed her mind that Brenna might have set the explosion herself. She just didn¡¯t believe Brenna had the nerve to kill someone. Still, she wasn¡¯t willing to just leave like this. She grabbed the middle-aged man to stop him. ¡°I need to¡­¡±


    The middle-aged man was already in a bad mood. He had just received a sharp reprimand from Edward and was itching to unload his frustration on someone.


    ¡°What do you want? If you don¡¯t have business here, you better scram. This ce isn¡¯t for the likes of you. And if you stick around too long, Mr. Ward might decide to kill you,¡± he said.


    Rosie¡¯s eyes lit up with an idea. Jade was dead. If Edward believed Brenna was behind it, he would go after her, wouldn¡¯t he?


    Of course, he would. Moreover, he would make Brenna suffer for it.


    Rosie quickly said, ¡°Sir! I know the person responsible for Miss Hewitt¡¯s death. And I know exactly where she is.¡±


    The middle-aged man paused, but his expression didn¡¯t change. They had already deduced that Brenna was the likely culprit, and they knew her whereabouts.


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    Still, he was curious to hear what Rosie had to say. ¡°Speak!¡±


    Rosie nced toward the building¡¯s entrance. It wasn¡¯t safe to speak out here since someone could easily overhear. ¡°Can we talk inside?¡± she asked carefully.


    The man thought for a second, then turned and led her inside.


    Brenna was in a good mood. She had a delightful conversation with the Princess of Orwall earlier that day. To her surprise, the Princess had refused to be Maxley¡¯s wife.


    The reason was simple enough. For a kingdom like Orwall, Plieca¡¯s economic standing couldn¡¯t hold a candle to theirs. And since royal marriages were closely tied to political alliances, such an arrangement wouldn¡¯t serve Orwall¡¯s best interests.


    By the time Brenna and Ethan made it back to the Empire Hotel, it was well past midnight.


    The hotel was eerily quiet. As they walked down the carpeted hallway, their footsteps barely made a sound.


    Aside from the two receptionists downstairs, the ce seemed deserted. Ethan couldn¡¯t help but notice that even the security guards were nowhere to be found.


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 Chapter 578

    ?Chapter 578:


    Yet, since it was the middle of the night and it was standard practice for the guards to rest after their rounds, Ethan didn¡¯t think much of it.


    ¡°Goodnight,¡± he said to Brenna.


    ¡°Goodnight.¡±


    Brenna and Ethan then disappeared into their rooms.


    The faint scent of air freshener lingered in Brenna¡¯s room. She sniffed the air a couple of times and, finding nothing out of the ordinary, assumed that housekeeping hade in to tidy up while she had been out.


    After a quick shower, she soon drifted into a deep sleep, probably exhausted from the busy day and evening banquet.


    Sometime during the night, every light in her suite flickered out, including the small nightlight she had left by the door.


    A fire had started in the utility room on the first floor of the Empire Hotel, and it spread through the venttion ducts faster than anyone could have imagined. In less than ten minutes, the mes consumed the entire building. Sparks shot through the ducts,nding in rooms and along the hallway carpets.


    The tiny sparks were relentless, quickly setting fire to everything they touched¡ªcarpets, curtains, nkets, and more.


    Wherever the fire spread, it roared into a full-blown ze, but Brenna stayed deep asleep,pletely unaware of it.


    Ethan was also deep in sleep.


    Not only were the two of them in a deep sleep, but even the choking smoke didn¡¯t wake them. The entire building¡¯s guests were all in a deep slumber, except for the two receptionists.


    Inside Brenna¡¯s room, the smoke grew thicker by the minute, so dense that it was impossible to see anything two meters ahead.


    In her sleep, Brenna felt the air grow thick and suffocating. She dreamt she was trapped inside a smoke-filled room, frantically searching for a way out, only to find every door and window bolted shut.


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    She choked and coughed violently, the smoke wing at her lungs, making every breath painful. The heat of the mes seemed to lick at her skin, the temperature rising with each passing second.


    With a desperate push, she forced herself awake, only to find the nightmare was all too real. Smoke surrounded her, and her nket was already halfway consumed by mes. She could even feel the heat of the fire.


    Without hesitation, she flung the burning nket aside, mped a hand over her nose, and sprinted into the bathroom. Luckily, there was still water in the pipes. She soaked a towel, pressed it firmly over her mouth and nose, and headed out.


    The hallway was already aze, the carpetpletely scorched and burned away. Fortunately, during the hotel¡¯sst renovation, Ethan had insisted on using non-mmable materials. If not for that decision, Brenna would have been trapped inside a roaring inferno with no hope of escape.


    Chaos ruled the corridor as guests spilled out of their rooms, all stampeding toward the stairwell. Brenna¡¯s heart jumped into her throat when she spotted Ethan¡¯s room¡¯s door still tightly shut. She was just about to pound on his door when it swung open. Ethan stood there, still in his pajamas, a wet towel pressed firmly over his mouth and nose. He grabbed Brenna¡¯s arm and pulled her toward the emergency exit.


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 Chapter 579

    ?Chapter 579:


    Ethan silently thanked his foresight. He had insisted on installing fire exit doors on every floor, a decision that now proved invaluable, keeping the fire from spreading up the stairs and devouring the entire building.


    Brenna wrenched herself away from Ethan¡¯s grasp, her lungs burning from the thick, acrid smoke that enveloped them. The carpet still smoldered in patches, and mes hungrily reached for them, casting wild shadows on the walls. Above, the ceiling spat down a rain of fiery debris, each piece a reminder of the peril that surrounded them. The urgency was palpable; staying even a moment longer could be life-threatening.


    Ethan pulled the damp towel away from his face to speak, his eyes wide with confusion.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s voice was hoarse, desperation threading through her words.


    ¡°Thiago and the others¡ªthey¡¯re still in their rooms!¡±


    Ethan tried to reason with her, his voice urgent.


    ¡°It¡¯s too dangerous, Brenna! We don¡¯t have time to save them!¡±


    He reached out to pull her away, his grip firm.


    ¡°The fire¡¯s growing! If we don¡¯t leave now, even the fire doors will seal shut.¡±


    But Brenna wrestled out of his hold once more, turning back to face the inferno without a second thought. She pounded on the door that separated them from Thiago, while in the nearby rooms, Joe and Tommy were trapped inside.


    Panic shed across Ethan¡¯s face. He knew that, to thepany, dead employees meant only a fewpensation checks. With the right sry, recements would line up at the door. Desperate to sway Brenna, he hurriedly blurted out his thoughts.


    His face twisted with worry as he tried to pull Brenna away from the looming disaster.


    ¡°We need to go, now!¡±


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    ¡°No!¡± Brenna shouted back, shaking her head fiercely.


    If she left now, she¡¯d never forgive herself. Thiago wasn¡¯t just a colleague¡ªhe was a loyal friend who had fought beside her through thick and thin. And more than that, he was the man Ellie, her best friend, had given her heart to. If something happened to him here¡­ Ellie would never forgive her.


    Brenna hammered furiously on the door, throwing her entire body against it in desperation, but it remained resolutely closed.


    Ethan, unable to sway her frantic efforts, grasped her shoulder and pulled her back.


    ¡°This isn¡¯t going to work,¡± he said urgently. ¡°The doors here at the Empire¡ª¡±


    The Empire Hotel is reinforced, designed to keep intruders out. We need a room card to get inside.¡±


    As he spoke, Ethan swiftly retrieved his own card from his pocket and slid it through the scanner.


    A soft beep signaled sess, and the door swung open.


    Brenna stared, momentarily stunned, as the door yielded to Ethan¡¯s card. She was surprised that his card could open someone else¡¯s room, but now wasn¡¯t the time to ask questions. She quickly regained herposure and pointed toward another door down the hall.


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 Chapter 580

    Chapter 580:


    ¡°Over there, quickly!¡±


    Understanding her urgency, Ethan hustled to the next door, his card at the ready. As the door opened, he was met with a ghastly sight: the room was engulfed in mes. Fire danced violently across the furniture, and the pillows smoldered ominously. In the midst of the chaos, Joey asleep.


    Ethan didn¡¯t hesitate. He grabbed a nearby bottle of water and sshed it onto Joe¡¯s face, jolting him awake.


    Joe erupted into a fit of coughs, his eyes widening in horror as he took in the fiery nightmare around him.


    He searched for his clothes, only to see the small sofa where he had left thempletely consumed by mes.


    The grim realization struck him¡ªif not for Ethan¡¯s timely intervention, he might have died in the ze.


    With the fire spreading fast, urgency overtook gratitude. Joe rushed to the wardrobe, which the mes hadn¡¯t reached yet, grabbed some clothes, and hurried out with Ethan.


    Ethan quickly moved on to the next room, using the same method to wake Tommy from his deep sleep.


    By the time they returned to the hallway, Brenna and Thiago were already waiting, anxiety written across their faces.


    Ethan lifted his gaze to the ceiling, frowning as he stared at the fire system, which remained eerily dormant. His instincts kicked in¡ªsomeone had tampered with it.


    When the Empire Hotel was constructed, its architects had paid meticulous attention to fire safety, installing an advanced detection system in the ceilings. In theory, the moment mes were detected, the system was supposed to activate and shower the area with water to suppress the fire.


    But now, even with mes licking the walls and the carpet long since reduced to ashes, the system remained eerily silent.


    ???????? ???????????????? ???????? g???????¦Í????????????


    Something was seriously wrong.


    Ethan¡¯s sharp eyes darted toward the wall-mounted rm panel. He knew every inch of his hotel like the back of his hand. With a fire this intense, the rms should have been ring. The fact that they weren¡¯t only confirmed his worst fear¡ªthis wasn¡¯t an ident. Someone had deliberately sabotaged the system.


    Turning back to Brenna, he grabbed her hand tightly, urgency burning in his voice.


    ¡°Brenna, you were right all along. We can¡¯t just think about getting ourselves out of here. This is my hotel, my responsibility. I can¡¯t leave everyone behind. You go first. Don¡¯t worry about me. I¡¯m going to manually trigger the rm and the fire control system.¡±


    Brenna shook her head.


    ¡°No! I¡¯m going with you!¡±


    Without hesitation, Ethan shoved Brenna toward Thiago, who stumbled a step as he caught her. Ethan¡¯s voice was firm, leaving no room for argument.


    ¡°Take care of her.¡±


    In that moment, Brenna¡¯s perception of Ethan shifted. Moments ago, she had believed he only cared about himself. Now, she knew that wasn¡¯t true.


    .


    .


    .<hr>


    Message from Noah: Time flies, dear ones! gaInoveIs was born on December 14th and we¡¯ve now celebrated over 6 months of existence. God loves you and Noah whishes you all the best. (? ?? ? ¨C ? ) ?


    .

 Chapter 581

    ?Chapter 581:


    ¡°No, it¡¯s too dangerous! We¡¯ll go with you,¡± Brenna insisted.


    A gentle warmth bloomed in Ethan¡¯s chest at her words. She cared about him¡ªher feelings simmered just beneath the surface. Though it brought him joy, he knew the danger they faced was far too great. He needed Brenna to get out now.


    He gestured urgently toward a ss door embedded in the nearby wall.


    ¡°It¡¯s just over there. It was designed for quick ess¡ªhousing the main controls for the rm and fire system. Don¡¯t worry about me. Just go.¡±


    Ducking low to stay beneath the creeping smoke, Ethan navigated swiftly to the fire control panel. His fingers flew over the controls, flipping all the necessary switches.


    Within seconds, water began to pour from the ceiling sprinklers, soaking the corridor. The system inside the rooms activated too, drenching everything in its path.


    Ethan then yanked open the ss panel beside him that housed the manual rm system. With one decisive press of a red button, the entire hotel was filled with the ring wail of emergency rms, urging everyone to evacuate.


    He assumed Brenna had already left. But when he turned around, his heart lurched¡ªBrenna was still there, her expression etched with worry. Thiago, along with Joe and Tommy, had managed to pry open the fire exit.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡±


    The Empire Hotel, a towering giant with thirty-three floors, buzzed with the frantic energy of high-profile guests, drawn by a recent economic and trade forum reminiscent of a major international business summit. Every room was upied by the wealthy or influential.


    Ethan, well-acquainted with the hotel¡¯splexyout, led the group carefully down each floor. As they descended, they encountered startled guests roused from their sleep¡ªsome hastily dressed, others scrambling out in nothing but their underwear, a mix of absurdity and tension in the air.


    With each level they passed, more people joined their descent.


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    As Ethan observed the growing crowd of lives saved, a wave of relief washed over him. Had these powerful and affluent guests perished in the ze, he would have faced a merciless media storm, his name dragged through scandal and outrage.


    He felt a pang of guilt for initially thinking only of escaping with Brenna. If not for her fearless determination, countless lives might have been lost in the fire. Her hair was singed by the mes, yet she paid it no mind, driven solely by the mission to rescue her friends. Watching her, Ethan was struck by her courage andpassion.


    By the time they reached the ground floor, the lobby fire had mostly been extinguished by the sprinkler system. A wave of collective relief swept through the crowd. The charred walls and smoky air told a grim tale, but it seemed, miraculously, that no lives had been lost. Ethan exhaled deeply, thankful for the decisions he had made.


    Yet once outside, neither Ethan nor Brenna could celebrate.


    Their thoughts immediately turned to Neville, who had been with them but was now missing¡ªalong with the bodyguards. Whether Neville had perished in the fire or had turned against them remained unknown.


    Ethan¡¯s heart was heavy with worry. He couldn¡¯t believe Neville or the guards would betray him; more likely, he feared, they had fallen victim to the inferno. Knowing Neville¡¯s loyal nature, Ethan couldn¡¯t ept the idea that he would abandon them in such a perilous moment.


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 Chapter 582

    ?Chapter 582:


    Brenna shared the same concern and turned to Thiago, asking,


    ¡°Do you think the bodyguards your friend arranged for us can be trusted? None of them has shown up yet.¡±


    Thiago¡¯s face was tense.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. Something must have happened. Many of those bodyguards are from Vand. It¡¯s possible that one or two might betray us, but all of them? That¡¯s hard to believe.¡±


    Brenna nodded, her expression firm.


    ¡°If they perished in the fire, we must make sure their families are generouslypensated.¡±


    Before they could fully process the shock of their narrow escape, a new threat emerged.


    In the open space outside the hotel, a group of men in ck aimed rifles at the crowd.


    Instinctively, everyone recoiled. Screams rang out behind Brenna, mostly from terrified women, plunging the scene into chaos.


    Ethan stepped in front of Brenna, shielding her.


    ¡°It was arson, just as I suspected.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s eyes darkened.


    ¡°It¡¯s the Ward family. They must have discovered the truth about Jade¡¯s death.¡±


    Near the hotel entrance, an elderly man sat quietly, his presencemanding. Edward leaned on a metal cane, his expression cold as he locked eyes with Ethan and Brenna.


    ¡°No wonder you¡¯re the world¡¯s richest man. I¡¯ll admit, you do have some skills,¡± he said.


    With a subtle wave of his hand, the men in ck surrounded Ethan and Brenna, frisking them without hesitation.


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    With so many lives at risk, neither Ethan nor Brenna resisted. As expected, Ethan¡¯s handgun was confiscated¡ªalong with Brenna¡¯s. But it didn¡¯t stop there. ck hoods were pulled over their heads, and their hands were cuffed tightly behind them.


    Thiago shouted in outrage,


    ¡°What are you doing? Don¡¯t touch her!¡±


    A man in ck responded with a swift punch, cutting Thiago off.


    ¡°Behave, or we¡¯ll kill you,¡± he growled in Pliecan, his tone ice-cold.


    ¡°Brenna!¡± Thiago¡¯s voice broke with fear. He knew too well what these people were capable of. If Ethan and Brenna fell into their hands, the consequences would be dire.


    The repercussions would be catastrophic. Joe and Tommy echoed Thiago¡¯s concern, shouting,


    ¡°Boss!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry!¡± Brenna called out calmly, her voice steady and unwavering.


    .


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 Chapter 583

    ?Chapter 583:


    Ethan, seething with anger, turned to Edward.


    ¡°You shoulde for me, not Brenna. I orchestrated Jade¡¯s death. Let her go; this has nothing to do with her.¡±


    Edward¡¯s face remained expressionless, showing no trace of grief. Though Jade was his daughter, to him, she was merely one among many¡ªher death insignificant.


    Yet, her failure had tarnished his reputation. She had represented him in dealings with Ethan and Brenna, only to be defeated and killed by them. That humiliation was intolerable.


    ¡°Take them away,¡± Edwardmanded as he rose slowly, preparing to leave.


    The men in ck raised their rifles and fired into the air, sending the crowd into a screaming panic.


    Fortunately, these men¡ªhardened but calcting¡ªaimed only to intimidate. Murdering anyone in public would bring unwanted heat from the authorities and rival factions.


    Ethan and Brenna were roughly forced into a waiting vehicle. The moment they were inside, both were struck unconscious.


    When they eventually awoke, the hoods still covered their heads, and an eerie silence enveloped them. They could feel a gentle but distinct swaying.


    Ethan¡¯s instincts kicked in. They were likely aboard a ship.


    ¡°Brenna, Brenna!¡± he called out, gently sweeping his leg around the space to locate her.


    Brenna stirred, wincing as a sharp ache pulsed through her neck.


    ¡°I¡¯m here. I¡¯m okay,¡± she said softly.


    The soft whisper of waves caressing the ship¡¯s hull echoed in Brenna¡¯s ears, a melodic reminder that she was indeed aboard a vessel. She tuned into the stillness, acutely aware of the silence that wrapped around her. Was she truly alone here?


    Her fingers grazed the bracelet on her wrist, a custom creation she had designed for emergencies. Half of it was a slender metal tube, cleverly concealing an eight-centimeter steel needle. The other half formed a chain, artfully designed to unfurl into a sharp wire with a gentle tug.


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    It was her lifeline¡ªa hidden weapon for moments just like this. With resolve hardening within her, she prepared to use the needle to unlock her handcuffs. Just then, approaching footsteps echoed nearby. She froze instantly, halting all movement to avoid being detected.


    In a sh, the ck hood was yanked from her head. Harsh sunlight streamed through a tall ss window, forcing her to squint until her eyes gradually adjusted to the brightness.


    Edward sat leisurely on a sofa, the light casting his face in shadow. He silently observed Brenna and Ethan with a cold, unreadable gaze.


    Standing beside him was a young woman with a striking figure. Brenna¡¯s gaze drifted upward and her heart skipped a beat when she recognized her.


    Rosie.


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 Chapter 584

    ?Chapter 584:


    She leaned casually against the sofa, her arm draped over the back behind Edward in a pose that felt oddly forced.


    ¡°Finally awake, Brenna?¡± Rosie¡¯s voice cut through the air,ced with venom. ¡°Since we¡¯re family, I¡¯ll give you the courtesy of saying yourst words.¡±


    Brenna stared at her, puzzled. Why would Rosie align herself with Edward? Was it desperation? Survival?


    With quiet defiance, Brenna replied,


    ¡°Perhaps you should start thinking about your ownst words.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s temper red instantly. She stormed over and delivered a swift kick to Brenna¡¯s stomach.


    ¡°You don¡¯t get to talk back now!¡± she snapped.


    Consumed by rage, Rosie grabbed Brenna¡¯s hair and raised her hand to strike her.


    Ethan¡¯s eyes zed with fury as he delivered a powerful kick, sending Rosie crashing to the floor.


    She hadn¡¯t expected him to strike with such force, especially while shackled. A sharp cry escaped her lips as her head collided with the ss window, leaving visible cracks across its surface. A searing pain shot through her skull. When she instinctively reached up, her fingers came away stained with blood.


    ¡°Ethan!¡± she screamed, her voiceced with fury. Then, with a venomous promise, she added, ¡°If you abandon Brenna and choose to marry me, I won¡¯t let you die.¡±


    Even in the chaos, she couldn¡¯t resist making onest desperate attempt to win his affection.


    Ethan scoffed. ¡°My life isn¡¯t yours to worry about. You should focus on saving your own.¡±


    Brenna felt a surge of emotion. Even bound and in danger, Ethan had stood up to protect her. His selflessness struck a deep chord within her. She hadn¡¯t minded taking a few blows herself¡ªbut knowing he intervened for her meant more than words could express.


    ¡°Mr. Ward, he¡¯s just so arrogant,¡± Rosie whined as she limped over to Edward, feigning injury as she clung to his side.


    R34d th3 0r1g1n4l 4t g4ln0v3ls.c0m


    Edward tapped his metal cane against the floor¡ªonce, twice. Each strike echoed ominously through the room, a silentmand that needed no words.


    The ck-d bodyguards closed in on Ethan, raining down punches and kicks without restraint. Soon, hey sprawled on the floor, battered and barely able to move. But even through the pain, his eyes searched for Brenna. Seeing her unharmed gave him strength. As long as she remained safe, he could endure anything.


    Their eyes met. In that brief moment, no words were needed¡ªa silent exchange of understanding passed between them. Ethan¡¯s gaze drifted to the ne he had given her, still gleaming around her neck. If Neville hadn¡¯t run into trouble, he¡¯d be tracking them through it. Help wasing. All Ethan needed to do now was buy time.


    Rosie stood watching, her heart a tangle of frustration and longing. She had expected Ethan to beg for mercy¡ªperhaps not from her, but at least from Edward. She had even prepared herself to speak on his behalf.


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 Chapter 585

    ?Chapter 585:


    But Ethan remained silent, gritting his teeth and refusing to plead. Not a word escaped his lips.


    Rosie trembled with rage. How could he choose to endure this pain rather than ask her for help? Her emotions twisted within her¡ªtorn between wanting the guards to punish him more and wishing they would finally stop.


    Finally, when Ethany battered and bruised, unable to move, Edward raised his hand, signaling the guards to stop.


    Rosie, clutching her bleeding wound, shot Brenna a venomous re. Once Edward finished his questioning, she silently vowed to end Brenna¡¯s life with her own hands.


    With sheer determination, Ethan pushed himself up from the floor, and Brenna rose beside him, her movements fluid and controlled.


    Ethan dismissed Rosie in his mind¡ªa petty nuisance, irrelevant to the real danger. He knew this situation had grown far beyond her capabilities. Rosie simply didn¡¯t have the influence to orchestrate such an borate scheme, especially not in Plieca.


    ¡°Edward, what is it that you truly want?¡± Ethan asked, his voice firm despite the pain coursing through his body. He understood that if Edward intended to kill him, he wouldn¡¯t still be breathing.


    ¡°I wish to propose a deal,¡± Edward replied calmly, the rhythmic tapping of his metal cane echoing across the room.


    Momentster, a stainless steel medical tray was wheeled in. On it sat a small ss vial filled with a clear liquid, beside a gleaming syringe.


    A guard in ck stepped forward and grabbed Brenna by the hair, yanking her toward the tray.


    Ethan¡¯s heart sank. He could only imagine what was in that vial. His voice turned cold and sharp. ¡°Let her go. If you¡¯re nning to use her to threaten me, I won¡¯t y along.¡±


    Edward remained unfazed, his expression unreadable. With a flick of his fingers, he signaled for the procedure to continue.


    Your favorite tales live on g?ln¦Ò¦Íe??s


    ¡°This is not a negotiation,¡± he said tly.


    Outside the ss-paneled window behind Edward, two ck-d bodyguards stood guard, spaced two meters apart, weapons at the ready. On the opposite side of the ship, more armed men were stationed¡ªa detail not lost on either Brenna or Ethan. Inside the cabin, four additional guards gripped their firearms, alert and ready to act.


    Brenna and Ethan understood that even with exceptional skill, even if they could neutralize all four guards in an instant, Edward would remain the most immediate and dangerous threat.


    His right arm was no ordinary limb. It was a marvel of engineering¡ªa mechanical arm Brenna herself had designed. Incredibly flexible and dangerously weaponized, it concealed poison darts and a built-in firearm. A mere tap could trigger theunch of the darts or fire the weapon automatically.


    And the metal cane in Edward¡¯s hand was not just for show. Forged from a nearly unbreakable alloy and also crafted by Brenna, the cane housed a hidden de. With a light press at the top, a razor-sharp edge would spring from the bottom, capable of slicing through steel. It wasn¡¯t as efficient as a gun, but it was no less lethal.


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 Chapter 586

    ?Chapter 586:


    Edward was no stranger to violence. In his youth, he had carved his name into the criminal underworld, ruthless and unyielding. He would not hesitate to crush anyone who stood in his way, and Brenna knew that one wrong move could mean instant death.


    A bodyguard now held Brenna tightly by the hair, his grip unforgiving. Yet beneath the pain was opportunity. With her hands bound behind her back, she skillfully used the guard¡¯s body to shield her movements as she reached for the steel needle hidden inside her bracelet.


    Thanks to her background in mechanical design, Brenna knew the structure of the handcuffs was rudimentary. It took her only seconds to pick the lock on one of them.


    But a sharp tug on her scalp reminded her time was running out. If she waited any longer, she might lose a chunk of her hair¡ªor worse.


    Acting without hesitation, she grabbed the guard¡¯s arm, dropped her weight, and in one fluid, powerful motion, snapped his arm like a twig.


    The entire sequence unfolded in less than a heartbeat¡ªso swift that the nearby bodyguards didn¡¯t have time to react.


    Without hesitation, Brenna broke the neck of the first guard before the remaining three could even register what was happening. She then hurled the lifeless body toward Edward.


    Instinctively, Edward raised his mechanical arm to shield himself from the oing body. But from the moment Brenna snapped the guard¡¯s arm to the moment sheunched the body, only three seconds had passed. As the body collided with Edward, Brenna surged forward like a striking viper.


    Before Edward could push the body aside, she was already at his side¡ªand with lethal precision, she snapped his neck.


    Ethan acted with equal skill. Having seen Brenna manipte her bracelet, he had already freed his own hands. As she engaged the others, he coiled his legs around the neck of the guard looming over him and snapped it effortlessly.


    With two guards down in seconds, the remaining pair froze, momentarily stunned by the speed and savagery of the attack. By the time they processed what had happened, Edward was already dead.


    Discover tales at g ? ln ¦Ò¦Í?? ?? s,


    Ethan, moving with deadly grace, rolled forward, snatched a firearm from one of the fallen guards, and fired at the two remaining men with lethal uracy.


    Then he turned the weapon on Rosie.


    Rosie stood frozen, unable toprehend the reversal of fortune. How had two handcuffed prisoners overturned everything in the blink of an eye?


    ¡°Please, don¡¯t kill me!¡± she cried, her voice trembling as all traces of arrogance drained from her face. Her knees buckled, and she copsed, pleading. ¡°Brenna, Ethan, please. I wasn¡¯t thinking straight¡ªI made a mistake¡­¡±


    Without a word, Brenna kicked her aside, retrieved a steel needle, and unlocked her remaining cuff. She stood tall, the steel glinting in her hand as she looked down at Rosie with icy contempt.


    ¡°Of course you were.¡±


    Rosie stared up at her in disbelief. ¡°How did you unlock the handcuffs?¡±


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 Chapter 587

    ?Chapter 587:


    The question hung in the air, her mind still reeling. Lock picking¡­


    Lock picking was a skill typically reserved for burrs¡ªhow on earth did Brenna know how to do it?


    Brenna scoffed. ¡°Have you forgotten what I studied in school? I majored in mechanical design. The structure of those handcuffs is basic. Unlocking them was child¡¯s y. I could crack a safe just as easily.¡±


    She shook her head in mild exasperation. ¡°With your level of foolishness, you should never have crossed me. Stop overestimating yourself.¡±


    Ethan stepped forward, his expression cold as he aimed the gun at Rosie. Given her history of maniption, he knew better than to trust her.


    Brenna, twirling the steel needle effortlessly between her fingers, moved to Ethan and unlocked his cuffs in one smooth motion.


    Ethan looked at her with genuine admiration. ¡°You really can do it all. It seems there¡¯s nothing in this world that can stop you. Can you unlock electronic locks too?¡±


    Brenna gave a casual nod. ¡°I can, though it takes a bit more effort.¡±


    Ethan turned his gaze back to Rosie, his disgust now fully evident. ¡°Should we kill her?¡±


    Brenna answered withposed certainty. ¡°No. She¡¯s my uncle¡¯s only daughter.¡±


    Beyond the window, a colossal warship loomed, cutting through the waves with menacing precision. Several speedboats, swift as arrows loosed from a bow, surged toward the vessel carrying Ethan and Brenna. Soldiers d in camouge stood aboard, rifles raised, firing at the ship without the slightest hesitation.


    Ethan and Brenna had not yet discerned which country¡¯s g the speedboats bore when a grim and sudden spectacle unfolded before them: the stern-faced bodyguards stationed outside were gunned down one by one, blood and brain matter sttering grotesquely against the ss. The scene was chilling.


    This shoot-first-ask-questionster approach bore the mark of ruthless military efficiency.


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    The sudden barrage jolted Ethan and Brenna into diving to the floor, hearts hammering. It dawned on them just how narrowly they had escaped death¡ªhad they hesitated even a second longer, they would have been riddled with bullets. Fortunately, the cabin walls held firm; though the soldiers had seemed reckless at first nce, their precision was anything but random.


    Only after the soldiers led Thiago and Neville into the cabin did Ethan and Brenna dare to rise from the floor.


    Neville¡¯s face was etched with guilt. His hair was singed, and visible burns marred his skin. Ignoring the pain, he rushed to Ethan with urgency radiating from every movement.


    ¡°Boss, I¡¯m sorry. The security team and I were drugged. By the time we realized you were in danger, it was already toote.¡±


    Ethan, seeing the burns on Neville¡¯s face, felt his anger dissolve. He could no longer me Neville for the dy; instead, a pang of guilt struck him. If Brenna hadn¡¯t insisted on saving everyone, he might never have had the chance to rescue Neville and the others.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine,¡± Ethan said quietly. ¡°You should get your injuries treated.¡±


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 Chapter 588

    ?Chapter 588:


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing serious, Mr. Mitchell. I¡¯m fine,¡± Neville replied, though the worry in his eyes deepened as he took in the bruises forming on Ethan¡¯s face.


    Thiago, spotting Brenna safe and unharmed, finally exhaled in relief.


    Meanwhile, Rosie, shrinking into a corner and trying to slip away unnoticed, had already been spotted. The soldiers had their eyes on her and had no intention of letting her escape.


    Two armed officers approached. Without a trace of sympathy, they seized Rosie roughly, treating her no differently than any other captured criminal.


    Outraged, Rosie screamed,


    ¡°I¡¯m Prince Maxley¡¯s woman! You can¡¯t treat me like this! I demand to see Prince Maxley! You barbarians¡ª¡±


    ¡°Shut up!¡± one of the soldiers barked, clearly out of patience.


    Thiago quickly pulled a long coat from his bag and draped it over Brenna, shielding her nightgown from view. Without a word, Neville handed a suit to Ethan.


    Brenna slipped into the coat and finally had a moment to ask Thiago,


    ¡°You guys got here so fast. How did you even manage to bring the military?¡±


    Thiago had been tense the entire time, fully aware of just how brutal and cold-blooded Edward could be. Considering the past they shared with Edward¡ªespecially Brenna and Ellie¡ªhe had feared the worst. Edward wouldn¡¯t have hesitated to kill Brenna.


    ¡°The fire at the Empire Hotel set off rms with the royal family,¡± Thiago exined in a low voice. ¡°As soon as they learned you two were kidnapped, they deployed the military without hesitation.¡±


    His eyes, cold and sharp,nded on Edward¡¯s lifeless body sprawled across the floor. A crime lord who had ruled Norview with an iron grip for over thirty years nowy dead. Considering the countless lives Edward had taken, his end felt almost too easy¡ªtoo merciful.


    Two dayster, Brenna, Thiago, and the others returned home, while Ethan stayed behind to handle unfinished business.


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    What Brenna hadn¡¯t expected was that Rosie had somehow made it back before her.


    The atmosphere at home was calm¡ªalmost unnervingly so. From everyone¡¯s behavior, it was clear that no one had the slightest clue about the fire or the kidnapping in Plieca.


    Rosie had slipped seamlessly back into her routine, showing up at work each day as if nothing had happened.


    When she saw Brenna, she greeted her with fake warmth, making Brenna momentarily question whether everything in Plieca had been real or just a terrible dream.


    ¡°Prince Maxley personally vouched for me and even escorted me back. He¡¯s in Shirie now, nning a coboration with the Harper Group. Surprised?¡± Rosie said smugly, her voice dripping with provocation.


    She acted as if the Pliecan royal family had already taken her under their wing.


    She had simply turned a blind eye to everything, even after what she had done to Brenna.


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 Chapter 589

    ?Chapter 589:


    Brenna couldn¡¯tprehend what Rosie had said or done to avoid punishment. After all, Brenna had saved the King of Plieca; by all rights, Rosie should have been executed for her malice. So how had she returned unscathed?


    Could it be that Rosie had provided the Plieca royal family with some crucial information?


    Fixing Rosie with a cold stare, Brenna asked, ¡°Did you strike a deal with the royal family in Plieca?¡±


    Rosie couldn¡¯t help but apud. ¡°Bingo. You caught on faster than I thought. I used to underestimate you, Brenna. But don¡¯t think you¡¯ll always be so lucky. Let¡¯s wait and see.¡±


    She could never forget the night Edward had almost tortured her to death in bed. The memory made her stomach churn, leaving a bitter taste she couldn¡¯t shake.


    Yet it hadn¡¯t been entirely in vain. After Edward had passed out from sheer exhaustion, she had scrambled to search the room and stumbled upon a mysterious sh drive.


    When the Plieca military captured her, she used that sh drive as a bargaining chip for her freedom.


    She had no idea what secrets it contained, but whatever was on it had clearly shaken both the military and the royal family. After reviewing its contents, they had epted her conditions. Not only did they set her free, but they also allowed her to be a member of the royal family. Even though she was granted only a minor title, it was still a significant rise in status.


    Now, Rosie began to peel back theyers of Brenna¡¯s nature, gaining a clearer understanding of her character. Brenna was like a closed book, her reserved demeanor steering her away from engaging in conversation or revealing her innermost thoughts. She often kept her feelings tucked away, rarely voicingints to her family.


    Rosie felt a quiet confidence that Brenna would treat the incident in Plieca like a secret, not wanting to mention it to the Harpers. As long as she didn¡¯t bring it up, Brenna would never take the initiative to speak of it.


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    Rosie couldn¡¯t help but feel triumphant because Brenna¡¯s personality was working to her advantage. Brenna would never have guessed that she had told the King of Plieca that she had saved Brenna and Ethan by pretending to bargain with Edward.


    With that USB drive in her hand, the royal family of Plieca had believed her.


    ording to her fabricated ount, when she had approached Edward, she had sensed something sinister brewing within his family and had gone to him to gather vital intelligence. Through this clever ruse, she had transformed herself into a hero.


    Rosie brimmed with pride over her masterful strategy.


    Though the journey had been fraught with twists and turns, and she had endured a measure of humiliation, she had finally wed her way to a higher social standing.


    ¡°You¡¯d best be on your guard from now on. As for the embarrassment you heaped onto me in Plieca, Brenna, mark my words¡ªyou will pay for it. Luck won¡¯t always be on your side. The moment I find my chance, I¡¯ll make sure to settle the score with you,¡± Rosie said.


    She no longer felt the need to hide her true intentions.


    Observing Rosie¡¯s smug demeanor, Brenna couldn¡¯t shake a bold suspicion. ¡°Are you going to be Maxley¡¯s wife?¡± she asked.


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 Chapter 590

    ?Chapter 590:


    Though Brenna couldn¡¯t quite grasp why the royal family of Plieca would suddenly choose Rosie to be Maxley¡¯s wife, the smugness on Rosie¡¯s face and her air of superiority hinted that it might actually be true.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Rosie admitted. ¡°Now I¡¯m someone you can¡¯t afford to cross.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯d do well to mind your behavior around me.¡±


    Instead of responding, Brenna simply offered a cool, faint smile.


    ¡°What¡¯s so amusing?¡± Rosie asked, irritation creeping into her voice. Here she was, elevated to royal status, yet Brenna still dared to mock her.


    Brenna said, ¡°You will just be the Prince¡¯s wife, and from a minor kingdom at that. Do you really believe a status like that can cause any waves here in Vand? Or do you imagine you¡¯re somehow better than all the people of Vand now?¡±


    She chuckled softly and shrugged. ¡°I doubt it. Your title might hold weight in Plieca, but here in Vand, it carries no power.¡±


    With that, she turned and went into her room with the suitcase.


    Rosie mmed her foot down in frustration and stormed back to her room, dialing Maxley on her phone to discuss the details for their meeting in three days.


    After their conversation had wrapped up, the more Rosie reyed what Brenna had said in her mind, the more her annoyance simmered. Alone, she muttered under her breath, ¡°How dare she say that to me? I will be Maxley¡¯s wife! A distinguished guest of Vand, respected by all. I am superior!¡±


    Fuming, she couldn¡¯t resist sharing the news with Vivian.


    Vivian, bored and eager for gossip, immediately congratted her upon hearing the news. Rosie¡¯s spirits soared with her friend¡¯s enthusiastic support.


    ¡°I¡¯m nning to throw a party to celebrate,¡± Rosie said.


    With that idea in mind, she quickly set about booking a restaurant and sending out invitations. She envisioned the elites of Shirie attending, hoping they would see her in a new light.


    Not long after Brenna had retreated to her own room, Julia entered to help her tidy up.


    After a refreshing shower, Brenna scrolled through her phone and stumbled upon Rosie¡¯stest post, showcasing photos with Prince Maxley, images of the royal pce in Plieca, and a dazzling royal badge.


    With a casual flick, she liked the post, then tossed her phone aside to focus on preparing for her lecture at Shirie University the following day. During dinner, the household buzzed with chatter as everyone gathered back together.


    The Harper family gathered around the dinner table, but the atmosphere felt heavy. Giselle sat with a frown, her te untouched.


    ¡°Mom, is something wrong?¡± Brenna asked, concern knitting her brow. Giselle¡¯s irritation was palpable. ¡°I got a call.¡±


    From Elsa after work. She imed your marriage to Ethan was a terrible idea. Just days before, the Mitchell family wanted Ethan to be engaged to Audrey, but Ableson shot that down. I thought we had moved past the matter, but Elsa brought it up again today. It¡¯s obvious she looks down on you. How dare she think that?¡±


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 Chapter 591

    ?Chapter 591:


    Shepard¡¯s face mirrored Giselle¡¯s grim expression, his appetite having vanished. The couple had briefly discussed the matter; they had agreed not to push if there was any disagreement.


    However, Ethan had publicly proposed to Brenna, and backing out now would not only hurt Brenna¡¯s dignity but also tarnish the Harper family¡¯s reputation.


    ¡°This is outrageous!¡± Shepard eximed, grabbing his phone. ¡°I will call Emmett and demand a direct response from him!¡±


    Giselle ced a hand on his to stop him. ¡°Don¡¯t bother. He likely already discussed this with Elsa before Elsa brought it to us. Brenna has other options. Tomorrow, I¡¯ll introduce her to a few young men and start setting up dates!¡±


    Ernst, his face set in determination, said, ¡°Dad, Mom, I¡¯ll speak to Ethan myself. This isn¡¯t as simple as it seems; it might just be Elsa¡¯s own idea.¡±


    Looking at the concerned faces of her family, Brenna remained unruffled. ¡°Ethan and his mother see eye to eye on very little. Elsa does not hold the reins for him. Let¡¯s take a deep breath first. I believe we should give Ethan the space to navigate this situation on his own.¡±


    Ernst nodded in agreement with Brenna¡¯s viewpoint. ¡°Exactly, Mom, Dad. Ethan is a man of integrity. His parents can be quite overbearing, and he has been at odds with them for as long as I can remember. Let¡¯s allow him some time to sort through this mess.¡±


    Shepard, however, shook his head dismissively. ¡°You all are too idealistic. Marriage is never just a union of two hearts; it involves two families. If Ethan¡¯s parents are not on board with this marriage, it simply won¡¯t happen. I think we should cut our losses here. Brenna has plenty of better options.¡±


    Ernst cast a hopeful nce at Brenna, silently urging her to speak up, but she remained tight-lipped, seemingly agreeing with her parents¡¯ sentiments.


    ¡°Brenna, say something,¡± Ernst said. ¡°You don¡¯t really want to give up on Ethan, do you?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s demeanor was as tranquil as a stillke, impervious to the tension around her. ¡°Let¡¯s take a breath and see how things unfold. We should make our position clear andmunicate our intentions to Ethan¡¯s parents. I¡¯m not in a rush to marry their son. I am still young and n to tie the knot after thirty. There¡¯s plenty of time before that.¡± Giselle exchanged a knowing look with Shepard, appearing to resonate with Brenna¡¯s perspective.


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    ¡°Marrying too early isn¡¯t the best path,¡± Giselle said. ¡°Brenna, I¡¯m behind you on this. Shepard, I¡¯ll have a word with Elsa first. Let¡¯s keep our noses out of the kids¡¯ affairs for now. And as for any talk of marriage between our families, Ethan and Brenna haven¡¯t even gotten engaged yet, so there¡¯s no need to discuss breaking anything off. What do you think?¡±


    Shepard nodded in agreement. ¡°Alright, we¡¯ll go with your n. Elsa seems to be pushing for a breakup¡ªprobably because she can¡¯t handle Ethan herself, and this is her way of getting us to make Brenna break up with Ethan. Brenna and Ethan were just dating now; as parents, we shouldn¡¯t meddle in their private affairs.¡±


    Rosie, who had been quietly listening, found the whole situation amusing. Shepard and Giselle likely had no idea about how Brenna had offended Elsa.


    She said, ¡°Mom, Dad, do you even know why Elsa suddenly took a stand against Ethan¡¯s marriage to Brenna?¡±


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 Chapter 592

    ?Chapter 592:


    Brenna shot Rosie a warning nce, but Rosie brushed it off, determined to share the story of the incident where Elsa had performed for Amy¡¯s birthday.


    Brenna felt resigned by Rosie¡¯s action. Giselle and Shepard remainedrgely unmoved, not as angry as Rosie had expected.


    ¡°This is not Elsa¡¯s fault,¡± Rosie continued. ¡°Brenna really crossed a line. How could she demand that her future mother-inw perform? Even if Elsa is in the performance business, being ordered around by her future daughter-inw must have stung. I think that¡¯s what set her off. And I haven¡¯t heard of Brenna apologizing to her. Honestly, she didn¡¯t handle this situation well.¡±


    Brenna pressed her lips together, showing no intention of defending herself. Shepard¡¯s expression darkened, feeling embarrassed by the turn of the conversation. He genuinely sensed Rosie was bing an outsider, her words aimed more at making them ufortable than at addressing the issue.


    Giselle shot a nce at Rosie, picking up on the subtle satisfaction in her expression. ¡°I was aware of this long before,¡± Giselle said. ¡°I spoke with Elsa about the matter, but she didn¡¯t change her mind. She looks down on our family, thinking we¡¯re just a bunch of money-driven businesspeople. She wants a daughter-inw with a stable government job. This isn¡¯t Brenna¡¯s fault.¡±


    Rosie was shocked by how protective Giselle and Shepard were toward Brenna. Even when Brenna was in the wrong, they wouldn¡¯t utter a word of criticism.


    Rosie said, ¡°Mom, Dad, if Brenna wants to marry Ethan, our family needs to show some sincerity. We should go visit the Mitchell family with gifts and apologize. Otherwise, it¡¯ll be nearly impossible for Brenna to secure that marriage.¡±


    Brenna felt a wave of irritation wash over her. Turning to Rosie, she said sharply, ¡°Do you really think I have to marry Ethan? I already apologized to Elsa face-to-face. She wouldn¡¯t ept it and even told me she had arranged a match for her son with a girl who has a steady government job, someone from a performance troupe linked to the military.¡±


    It dawned on her that Rosie couldn¡¯t stand to see her seed. The more dire her situation became, the more delight Rosie seemed to take in it.


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    Sure enough, a fleeting smile flickered across Rosie¡¯s face before she feigned surprise. ¡°You apologized already? With your pride, you actually managed that? Even if you did, it must have been insincere. That¡¯s why Elsa keeps rejecting you. We should still go as a family and formally apologize to her. Brenna, Ethan is a remarkable man. You shouldn¡¯t let him slip through your fingers. Winning him over is the best choice for you, and deep down, you know it.¡±


    Rosie felt she needed to sway both Shepard and Giselle. ¡°Mom, Dad, what are your thoughts? Financially, we¡¯re nowhere near the Mitchell family. If we forge an alliance through marriage, it could bolster our business prospects as well.¡±


    Yet, her true aim stretched beyond mere finances; it was about elevating her reputation within the Plieca royal family. After all, she could unt the fact that her brother-inw was the wealthiest man in the world.


    Deep down, she also craved to see Elsa drive the Harper family into the ground, to humiliate them thoroughly, to tear at their pride until they were stripped of their dignity. She wanted the Harpers to swallow their pride and plead with the Mitchells, begging for the marriage to take ce. Even if Brenna did manage to marry Ethan, she would be haunted by Elsa¡¯s relentless torment for the rest of her days.


    Meanwhile, she believed she would be calling the shots in the royal family in Plieca and living in luxury, while the Harpers would have to tiptoe around her. Just thinking about it made her feel triumphant.


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 Chapter 593

    ?Chapter 593:


    Ernst genuinely believed Rosie had evolved for the better and was sincerely considering Brenna¡¯s well-being. Turning to Brenna, he said, ¡°Brenna, are you willing to fight for this? If you are, I can apany you to speak with the Mitchells. After all, what transpired at Amy¡¯s birthday party was indeed a mess. An apology is essential for mending your rtionship with Ethan¡¯s parents.¡±


    Brenna paused, weighing her options before responding, ¡°No need for that now. I think Ethan can handle it on his own.¡±


    Rosie couldn¡¯t hold back her scorn. ¡°Why do you insist on being so stubborn, Brenna? You made a mistake, so what harm is there in apologizing a few more times? Elsa is your future mother-inw, for goodness¡¯ sake. Shouldn¡¯t you, as the younger one, show some respect to her? Or do you expect her to bow down to you? Ethan backing you doesn¡¯t give you the right to act however you like.¡±


    Brenna, feeling the weight of frustration, snapped back, ¡°And what does any of this have to do with you? Just because you¡¯ll be one of Prince Maxley¡¯s concubines doesn¡¯t give you the authority to meddle in everyone¡¯s affairs.¡±


    Rosie raised her voice, indignation bubbling over. ¡°I¡¯m only trying to help you! You should be grateful!¡±


    Everyone in the Harper family turned their gazes toward Rosie, confusion etched on their faces. They had no idea about her rtionship with Prince Maxley of Plieca.


    Shepard spoke up, his voiceced with sternness. ¡°Rosie, what¡¯s going on? Haven¡¯t you had feelings for Ethan for years? How did you end up involved with the royal family in Plieca?¡±


    A faint, almost imperceptible smile danced on Brenna¡¯s lips. She had sessfully redirected everyone¡¯s attention to Rosie.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. I¡¯m going to be Prince Maxley¡¯s wife soon. Feel free to congratte me,¡± Rosie dered.


    She scanned the room, noticing that not a single member of the Harper family looked happy for her. Instead, their expressions were a mix of shock and disapproval. Here she was, marrying into nobility and aligning herself with a man of high status, yet no one seemed pleased.


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    ¡°You¡¯re not happy for me?¡± Rosie asked, her frustration bubbling to the surface. ¡°I was supposed to marry Ethan, but Brenna took him from me. Now that I¡¯ve found someone even better, shouldn¡¯t it be a cause for celebration?¡±


    She couldn¡¯t help but voice something she had held back for far too long. ¡°I can still secure a good marriage without any of your help.¡±


    Shepard fixed her with a prating gaze. ¡°Rosie, do you understand that the royal family in Plieca operates on a system where there is one wife but multiple concubines?¡±


    A sh of panic flickered across Rosie¡¯s face. ¡°I know. I¡¯ll still be the Prince¡¯s wife. My status is all that matters to me. I don¡¯t care how many concubines Prince Maxley has. With your support, I¡¯ll have an incredible future.¡±


    Brenna shot her a cool nce, choosing not to expose the truth. Rosie wasn¡¯t the official consort¡ªjust a concubine¡ªbut if embellishing her position made her feel better, so be it.


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 Chapter 594

    ?Chapter 594:


    ¡°I object,¡± Shepard said bluntly. He knew Rosie didn¡¯t possess anything particrly remarkable in terms of looks, and the Harper family was far from being among the elite. They simplycked the influence to elevate Rosie to the pinnacle of honor in Plieca.


    ¡°Dad, I¡¯ve already made up my mind,¡± Rosie responded with unwavering determination. ¡°I¡¯m informing you, not seeking your approval.¡±


    Giselle kept her head down, quietly eating as if the entire conversation had nothing to do with her.


    Both Ernst and Dalton exchanged knowing nces, shaking their heads. As men, they understood all too well that someone like Prince Maxley was unlikely to remain faithful to just one woman.


    Moreover, whether it was the Plieca royal family, Orwall¡¯s, or any royal lineage across the globe, such marriages were primarily driven by political interests. Rosie¡¯sck of a political background made it hard to fathom how she could hold onto the title of consort.


    Ernst, who had always been protective of Rosie, feltpelled to speak up. ¡°Rosie, once you marry into the royal family in Plieca, you¡¯remitted for life. You do realize that divorce is not an option for you, right? If Maxley grows weary of you, you¡¯ll face a lifetime of unhappiness.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s anger red. ¡°You just can¡¯t stand to see me happy, can you? Since I have the ability to be a member of the royal family in Plieca, then I absolutely can be the most esteemed woman there!¡±


    Rosie was seething. She believed Shepard and Giselle simply couldn¡¯t bear to see her happy. She sprang to her feet, her voice firm and unwavering. ¡°My life, my choice!¡±


    Shepard¡¯s demeanor shifted, a storm brewing in his eyes. Over the years, he had kept his temper in check with Rosie, mindful that he wasn¡¯t her biological father. He had always feared that a heavy hand would make her feel like she was mistreated.


    With a steady voice, he said, ¡°Rosie, marrying into royalty may sound like a good idea, but the truth is there¡¯s a minefield of rules involved. Trust me, most people can¡¯t stand them. I might not be your father, but as your uncle, everything I sayes from a ce of love and concern. I would never wish you harm or anything less than a bright future. This marriage will ruin your future, and I absolutely won¡¯t support it!¡±


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    Ernst observed the exchange, worry etched on his face. He attempted to mediate. ¡°Dad¡¯s right, Rosie. He means you no harm. Let me dig into the royal rules of Plieca. You can make your decision after learning them.¡±


    Rosie shot daggers at everyone in the room. ¡°That won¡¯t be necessary. I¡¯m an adult; I¡¯ll face all the consequences of my choices on my own. Whether marrying into Plieca¡¯s royal family is a blessing or a curse, I¡¯ll own it.¡±


    With that deration, she stormed out, her mind resolute. She intended to visit Luther that afternoon and seek his counsel.


    Once Rosie had left, Shepard finally turned to Brenna. ¡°You visited Plieca too, didn¡¯t you, Brenna? Do you know what happened?¡± Faced with Shepard¡¯s inquiry, Brenna maintained herposure. After a moment of serious reflection, she decided to share everything that had unfolded in Plieca.


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 Chapter 595

    ?Chapter 595:


    She recounted the events with calm precision. The Harper family listened in stunned silence, their eyes wide with disbelief.


    No one was more incensed than Giselle upon hearing what had happened. Without hesitation, Giselle reached for Brenna, checking her for injuries. It wasn¡¯t until shepleted a thorough inspection that she noticed Brenna¡¯s hair was a few inches shorter, with a singed lock at the end. Only then did she truly believe what had happened.


    With her heart heavy, Giselle pulled Brenna into a fierce embrace, her voice quivering on the edge of tears. ¡°Oh, my dear, you¡¯ve endured so much. You were even on the brink of death out there. Why didn¡¯t you say a word about it before? If something had happened to you, how could I ever forgive myself?¡±


    Brenna felt a stir of emotion. Giselle¡¯s concern for her was palpable; the tears in her eyes and the anger on her face were undeniably real.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine. I know how to look after myself,¡± Brenna replied.


    Giselle shot back, ¡°You can¡¯t be sure of that! If something truly happened, you wouldn¡¯t get the chance to say it! Next time you go abroad, I¡¯m going with you!¡±


    As anger bubbled in Giselle¡¯s heart, she turned to her sons and Shepard. ¡°Rosie¡¯s even more cruel than I imagined! If she¡¯s so eager to get married, let her! She¡¯s no longer part of our lives! Liquidate her shares and transfer every single penny to her. From this moment on, she should have no ties to the Harper Group whatsoever! After everything we¡¯ve done for her, she has the audacity to harm Brenna. This is absolutely unforgivable!¡±


    Ernst¡¯s expression darkened as he looked at Brenna for confirmation. ¡°Brenna, did Rosie really do that?¡±


    He could hardly believe that Rosie would stoop so low.


    Dalton mmed his palm down on the table. ¡°I stand with Mom. Dad, if Rosie wants to self-destruct, let her. Why should we even care?¡±


    Shepard, the calmest among them, stared at Brenna for a long moment. The more he reflected on the matter, the clearer it became to him that Rosie had truly crossed a line this time. ¡°That¡¯s right. Rosie needs to face the consequences of her own actions,¡± Shepard said, his voice low and steady.


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    Giselle was still furious. ¡°Even if Luther tries to shield her this time, I won¡¯t back down.¡±


    Rachael, busy in the kitchen, caught a whiff of the family¡¯s escting tensions. She wrung her hands in worry, fearing that Rosie remained unaware of the storm brewing around her and that she might end up getting hurt.


    Seizing the moment while everyone was distracted, Rachael quietly slipped upstairs, determined to share everything she had just overheard with Rosie.


    Brenna caught a glimpse of Rachael from the corner of her eye but chose not to do anything. She believed she had no obligation to keep Rosie¡¯s secrets, after all.


    Giselle continued to pour out her heart to the family, expressing how she had nurtured Rosie over the years, treating her like her own flesh and blood. She had never expected that the moment Rosie felt discontent, she wouldsh out at Brenna.


    ¡°We¡¯ll need to keep a close eye on her from now on,¡± Giselle said, her frustration boiling over. ¡°If it weren¡¯t for Luther stepping in, I¡¯d have shown her the door before! After all these years, all I¡¯ve received is her bitterness. It proves one thing¡ªone can¡¯t force a connection that isn¡¯t rooted in blood. Shepard, you must see her true colors!¡±


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 Chapter 596

    ?Chapter 596:


    Dalton shook his head, disappointment etched on his face. ¡°If she¡¯s so eager to leave our family, then let her go; let¡¯s cut ties with her once and for all.¡±


    Ernst was also angry but remained silent.


    Meanwhile, upstairs, Rosie¡¯s expression darkened as she absorbed Rachael¡¯s words. After a while, she muttered, ¡°Brenna really is something else; she even let that slip. Of all people, she¡¯s the one who¡¯s most eager to see me gone. If I¡¯m leaving, I¡¯ll take everyst cent from Harper Group with me. Since I mean nothing to them, they can brace themselves for a reckoning.¡±


    The thought of Brenna marrying Ethan ignited a fire of resentment within her. She quickly said, ¡°Rachael, I need you to do something for me. Before I go, I will ruin Brenna¡¯s reputation and ensure the Harper family faces financial ruin!¡±


    On Tuesday afternoon, just after six, Brenna and Tommy stepped out of the engineering building and immediately spotted Giselle.


    Giselle looked pristine, d in a sharp pantsuit that exudedpetence and confidence. As a finance professor primarily supervising graduate students, she wasn¡¯t a familiar face among the engineering students.


    She stood on the steps, engaged in a light-hearted conversation with a male professor from the engineering department. The man, of average build and surprisingly youthful for his age, offered a warm smile. ¡°Congrattions, Professor Harper,¡± he said. ¡°I¡¯ve heard whispers that you¡¯re on the brink of being promoted to vice president.¡±


    Giselle responded with a polite smile, neither confirming nor denying the rumor. ¡°That¡¯s what they say,¡± she said with a hint of modesty.


    This professor, Sean McCoy, supervised graduate students and asionally coborated with the Harper Group, so he was familiar with Brenna¡¯s aplishments. He chuckled. ¡°Look at Brenna. She¡¯s even younger than my grad students, yet she has achieved so much more than they have. You must be very proud of her.¡±


    ¡°Very proud,¡± Giselle replied, exchanging a few more pleasantries before Sean took his leave.


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    As Brenna approached Giselle, she said, ¡°Mom, what brings you here?¡± Giselle usually drove home on her own, but today she was waiting for Brenna, which was umon.


    Giselle let her practiced smile slip away, her expression darkening with frustration. ¡°Elsa retired early from the military¡¯s performance troupe, and now our university has brought her in to teach in the arts department. She came to see me at noon today, invited me to dinner tonight to discuss something, and insisted I bring you along.¡±


    Just recalling the encounter ignited Giselle¡¯s anger. Elsa had addressed her as if she were her superior, using amanding tone.


    Giselle had been furious and had argued with Elsa, their voices raised enough to attract the attention of colleagues from nearby offices. Giselle continued, ¡°Elsa is so used to barking orders in her old military troupe that she treats me like I¡¯m beneath her. That is outrageous!¡± Brenna slipped her arm through Giselle¡¯s, trying to offerfort.


    ¡°That¡¯s just Elsa; she treats everyone like they¡¯re beneath her. So what if her son is the richest man in the world? Does she think everyone¡¯s desperate to win her favor? That¡¯s absurd. Thest time I met her, she tried to boss me around too, but I stood my ground.¡±


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 Chapter 597

    ?Chapter 597:


    Giselle couldn¡¯t help butugh, her frustration fading. ¡°You¡¯re right; not everyone deserves our kindness.¡±


    Tommy, who had been standing quietly to the side, greeted Giselle with a polite nod.


    Giselle had always appreciated Tommy, knowing that everyone who worked with Brenna was highly educated and capable. ¡°You shoulde by for a meal sometime.¡±


    Tommy nodded graciously. ¡°It will be my pleasure. I¡¯ll take my leave now. Brenna, I¡¯ll drop this off in your office tomorrow.¡±


    Brenna gave a quick nod, ncing at the car model he held in his hand.


    Later, Brenna and Giselle went to one of the most esteemed restaurants in the city. The venue was upscale, boasting top-notch facilities and an air of sophistication.


    After providing Elsa¡¯s name at the reception, a server guided them to a private dining room on the third floor.


    As soon as Brenna opened the door, she spotted Elsa, ¡°Ethan,¡± and Minna already seated inside.


    ¡°Ethan, this is Mrs. Harper,¡± Elsa said, subtly nudging him.


    Despite Elsa¡¯s words, Brenna saw through the ruse immediately. The man before her bore a striking resemnce to Ethan, yet his demeanor was entirely different. She realized he was Kenny, Ethan¡¯s twin brother.


    The giveaway was Ethan¡¯s recent injuries. Brenna knew he had been severely beaten by Edward¡¯s men on a ship in Plieca, and the bruises still marked his face¡ªreminders that would take at least six days to fade.


    Ethan didn¡¯t want his family to see his injuries, so he nned to stay away until they healed.


    Unaware that Brenna knew this, Elsa was trying to use Kenny to deceive her.


    Kenny¡¯s handsome face was unmarked, and his features carried the unmistakable air of a soldier, though a flicker of unease danced in his eyes.


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    He wore an identical ck suit to Ethan¡¯s; to anyone unfamiliar with them, he would easily pass for his brother.


    But Brenna knew that Elsa wanted Kenny to impersonate Ethan, hoping she would mistakenly believe Ethan and Minna were now an item.


    ¡°Good evening, Mrs. Harper,¡± Kenny said to Giselle with a polite smile.


    Giselle¡¯s expression darkened as she walked in and took a seat directly across from Elsa. The atmosphere was so tense it felt almost suffocating.


    The moment Giselle spotted ¡°Ethan¡± with a pretty young woman, her mind immediately jumped to conclusions. She assumed the girl was someone he was being set up with, and her impression of Ethan worsened.


    Determined, she resolved that starting tomorrow, she would begin introducing Brenna to eligible bachelors to show Elsa that Brenna was just as sought after.


    ¡°Ethan, who is this youngdy?¡± Giselle demanded sharply, her tone cutting through the tension. ¡°What¡¯s going on here?¡±


    Kenny shifted ufortably in his seat. As a soldier, he despised being part of this charade, and if Elsa hadn¡¯t threatened him with his life, he would never have agreed toe.


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 Chapter 598

    ?Chapter 598:


    Seeing the anger radiating from Giselle made him feel guilty for what he was doing. But when Elsa kicked his foot under the table, he knew better than to speak the truth.


    He nced anxiously at Brenna, silently hoping she would see through the deception and recognize that he wasn¡¯t Ethan.


    Minna felt more embarrassed than Kenny. Before arriving, she had no idea Ethan had a twin brother. When she first saw Kenny, she mistook him for Ethan and greeted him with a bright smile. While Elsa stepped away to the restroom, Minna even let her guard down, sharing her feelings for Ethan with Kenny. She mentioned that she had already submitted her retirement application to the military and that Elsa had arranged her new role as Ethan¡¯s secretary. Her goal was to learn more about his habits to care for him better. To her astonishment, Kenny revealed that he was actually Ethan¡¯s older brother, a fighter pilot.


    Both of them had turned crimson with embarrassment at that moment. Kenny felt that Elsa was meddling far too much in Ethan¡¯s personal affairs.


    Minna¡¯s face burned with humiliation, her cheeks a vivid shade of red. Kenny, equally flustered, quickly offered an earnest apology.


    In her heart, Minna vowed never to confess her feelings to Ethan again. At the same time, a knot of anxiety twisted in her stomach at the thought that Kenny might tell Ethan what had happened. She asked Kenny to keep it a secret, and he nodded in agreement.


    Now, as Kenny observed Brenna¡¯sposed demeanor, he noticed that when she entered and sat down, she gave him a single nce beforepletely ignoring him. He couldn¡¯t tell if she was upset or not.


    From the look on her face, he suspected she had already figured out he wasn¡¯t Ethan, and oddly, that realizationforted him. Unsure how Ethan usually interacted with Brenna, Kenny decided to y it safe. He pressed his lips into a thin line and sat up straight, remaining silent.


    Elsa, however, was far from pleased with Kenny¡¯s behavior. She subtly patted his leg and whispered, ¡°Loosen up a bit. Ethan always carries himself like he has everything under control.¡±


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    Kenny nced at Elsa, then discreetly looked at Brenna and Giselle. Brenna¡¯s expression remained impassive, far from someone in love; she appeared more like a detached observer. As for Giselle, she seemed ready to erupt in anger.


    Kenny felt as if he were crossing a moral line; breaking up with Ethan¡¯s girlfriend on his behalf simply didn¡¯t feel right. If Brenna and Giselle could see through the charade, that would be a relief.


    ¡°Mom, I can¡¯t sit like that,¡± Kenny whispered to Elsa.


    Giselle believed Elsa and ¡°Ethan¡± were whispering because they were mocking her. She bristled, convinced the Mitchells were looking down on her due to their military background.


    Noticing Elsa and Kenny¡¯s whispering, Brenna decided to have a little fun. She leaned toward Giselle and murmured, ¡°That¡¯s Kenny, not Ethan. Ethan is injured and can¡¯t be here; he¡¯s still in Plieca.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s reaction was somewhat theatrical, her movements exaggerated though her voice remained low. Still, she couldn¡¯t conceal her shock. ¡°Really?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s cool gaze locked onto Kenny. She could see that his demeanor was worlds apart from Ethan¡¯s.


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 Chapter 599

    ?Chapter 599:


    She replied to Giselle, ¡°Yes. Ethan would never treat me like this, not uttering a word to me.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s anger began to wane, and she started to view Elsa as rather foolish. She had always believed those in the military, like Elsa, were sharp, but now it seemed that wasn¡¯t the case.


    Elsa caught the disdainful look Giselle shot her and promptly ceased her whispering with Kenny.


    Clearing her throat, Elsa announced, ¡°This is Minna Davies, the woman I¡¯ve chosen as a suitable match for Ethan. And Ethan is quite happy to be in Minna¡¯spany. I¡¯ve brought you all here today to inform you that Ethan has found his true love, and he¡¯s here to break things off with you, Brenna.¡±


    What Elsa didn¡¯t realize was that beneath the table, Brenna had already dialed Ethan, allowing him to overhear Elsa¡¯s words.


    Listening in from the other end of the line, Ethan felt resigned. Elsa was being utterly absurd; how could she pull a stunt like this?


    Thankfully, Brenna had seen through the charade right away. Otherwise, Ethan knew he¡¯d be unable to exin himself to her. Elsa was unaware that Brenna and Giselle had already seen through her act; she continued to y her part with unwavering seriousness.


    ¡°Ethan, tell them that you like Minna,¡± she said.


    Kenny¡¯s expression was taut. He disliked the current tense atmosphere, his lips pressed firmly together in silent protest.


    Elsa jabbed him sharply under the table, prompting him to say, ¡°Yes, and I¡¯m dating Minna.¡±


    He avoided the scrutinizing gazes of Brenna and Giselle, feeling the weight of their judgment.


    Giselle smirked. ¡°Kenny, you¡¯re a soldier. Soldiers are trained to uphold integrity. How could you lie?¡±


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    At that, Kenny blurted out, ¡°When did you figure it out?¡±


    Elsa¡¯s fury bubbled over. She pinched Kenny¡¯s thigh, hissing under her breath, ¡°She¡¯s just tricking you! How could she possibly know?¡±


    Kenny could no longer maintain the facade. Raising his voice, he dered, ¡°Mom, I told you this n was doomed from the start. Giselle saw right through it. Besides, Brenna and Ethan are close; how could she not notice that I was pretending to be Ethan?¡±


    With that, he stood up abruptly and stormed out of the room. Minna bit her lip, feeling embarrassed, wishing she could vanish into thin air.


    Elsa was seething but refused to back down.


    ¡°Giselle, Brenna, you know where I stand clearly now. I¡¯m firmly against Ethan marrying Brenna,¡± she said.


    ¡°Mrs. Harper, since you¡¯ve already graced us with your presence, why don¡¯t we all sit down and have a meal together?¡± Elsa¡¯s voice dripped with a veneer of cordiality that barely masked her underlying sarcasm.


    Rising to her feet, Giselle pulled Brenna up with her. ¡°No need. There¡¯s no point in pretending here. We won¡¯t waste another second of your precious time with your future daughter-inw.¡±


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 Chapter 600

    Chapter 600:


    Brenna didn¡¯t bother to put on a polite facade either. Her gaze was sharp andced with disdain. She had never been one to curry favor with those who disliked her, no matter their status. Even if Elsa one day became her mother-inw, she had no intention of lowering herself to earn her approval.


    ¡°Take a look at this,¡± Brenna said, lifting her phone for Elsa to see. The screen showed an ongoing call to Ethan. ¡°Every word you said today¡ªyour son heard it all loud and clear.¡±


    She didn¡¯t care if this sparked a war between Ethan and Elsa. She had no intention of swallowing her grievances or suffering in silence. As expected, Elsa¡¯s expression soured instantly. ¡°You!¡±


    ¡°Goodbye, Mrs. Mitchell,¡± Brenna said, steering Giselle swiftly toward the exit.


    They left the tension-filled dining room behind and emerged into the hallway, where they noticed Kenny. He was casually leaning against a wall, his eyes fixated on a nearby promotional poster.


    The instant Kenny caught sight of Brenna stepping out, he could tell everything had gone south. If things had gone smoothly, Giselle and Brenna would have stayed for dinner instead of walking out before even ordering. Their dark expressions made it painfully clear¡ªthey were both thoroughly fed up with Elsa.


    To be fair, the me fell squarely on Elsa¡¯s shoulders. Kenny had lived under Elsa¡¯s suffocating need for control all his life and had grown numb to it, but he knew full well that Giselle and Brenna weren¡¯t nearly as tolerant.


    He had no intention of meddling in Ethan¡¯s love life, but pretending to be Ethan today had been a terrible idea. If it caused Brenna any misunderstandings, that was on him.


    Kenny strode toward Brenna and Giselle, his expression somber. ¡°Mrs. Harper, Miss Harper, I am truly sorry about what happened today.¡±


    He gave a small, rueful shake of his head, his eyes tinged with remorse. ¡°I¡¯m deeply sorry. Please, don¡¯t hold this against my mother. She truly isn¡¯t a bad person, I assure you¡ª¡±


    Giselle, who had been simmering down, reignited with a fierce re. ¡°Not a bad person? Really? What are you even trying to say? Did you not hear the words she said just moments ago? Is this how a parent should behave? If she disapproves of Brenna, she could simply be upfront about it. But all these deceptions, these maniptions¡­ it¡¯s absurd! Brenna doesn¡¯t have to be with Ethan. The world is full of decent men.¡±


    ???????????????? ????????: g????????¦Í?????????????


    Kenny felt the weight of a burgeoning headache. He looked over at Brenna, who watched the confrontation with a cool, almost amused detachment. She remained silent, choosing not to defend him.


    Scrambling for words, Kenny tried once more to pacify Giselle. ¡°Mrs. Harper, I implore you, please don¡¯t get angry. I acknowledge my mother crossed a line, and I am here to apologize on her behalf. I want to tell you that Ethan is not the conformist that I am. He didn¡¯t know anything about what happened today. Honestly, I think Ethan and Brenna are perfect together.¡±


    Giselle unleashed her pent-up frustration on Kenny with fiery intensity. ¡°My family is evidently not esteemed enough for your family! Moreover, it¡¯s not as though our families had any formal ties or engagements. This entire dinner was a farce, a stage set by your mother to belittle us. Your apologies won¡¯t cut it. If anyone owes an apology, it¡¯s your mother.¡±


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    Message from Noah: Nice sunday dear ones, hope you liked the chapters. God loves you and Noah whishes you all the best. (=?=) /


    .

 Chapter 601

    ?Chapter 601:


    With a sharp tug, she led Brenna away. Brenna¡¯s face was a mask of frost, her gaze cutting through Kenny as if he were a stranger.


    They had barely made a few steps when Kenny¡¯s phone rang. He answered, only to be met with Ethan¡¯s icy rebuke. ¡°Who gave you the right to interfere in my affairs?¡±


    Kenny¡¯s patience snappedpletely. He couldn¡¯tsh out at outsiders, but he could snap at his own brother.


    ¡°You think I wanted to get dragged into your damn mess?¡± he barked, his voice sharp with anger. ¡°Mom forced me to do this. I¡¯m done. I already swallowed my pride and apologized to Miss Harper. Whether she wants to forgive me or not, that¡¯s her call.¡±


    His chest heaved with frustration as he added, ¡°Don¡¯t you dare scold me like I owe you anything! If you¡¯ve got the guts, go pick a fight with Mom! You¡¯ve been butting heads with her since we were kids. Go ahead; do it again!¡±


    With that, Kenny ended the call. Through gritted teeth, he muttered bitterly, ¡°Goddamn it! Now I¡¯m the viin to both sides. Screw this.¡±


    In Plieca, Ethan¡¯s face¡­


    Ethan¡¯s face darkened. His voice was low with disbelief as he stared at his phone. ¡°He actually hung up on me? He¡¯s been thepliant one his entire life, and now he chooses to follow such an absurd order? To impersonate me just because Mommanded it? What the hell was he thinking? Thank God Brenna caught on instantly. If she hadn¡¯t, I swear, I would¡¯ve made him regret it for the rest of his life.¡±


    Nearby, Neville struggled to maintain hisposure, his shoulders shaking slightly with suppressedughter.


    He couldn¡¯t help but admire Brenna¡¯s resolve. Unlike others, Brenna didn¡¯t try to smooth things over or show any concern about losing Ethan¡¯s favor. Instead, she cleverly tossed the entire predicament back to Ethan, forcing him to untangle the mess himself.


    Her tact was nothing short of masterful.


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    With Brenna¡¯s sharp wit, she was undoubtedly well-equipped to deal with Elsa.


    Ethan stood silhouetted against the hotel window, his gaze locked on the bustling street below as he dialed Elsa¡¯s number.


    The moment he pressed the phone to his ear, Elsa¡¯s voice burst forth like a thunderp. ¡°You brat, you dare call me after all this?¡±


    Ethan¡¯s voice was a calm counter to her fury. ¡°I hope you¡¯ll stay out of my affairs from now on,¡± he said, his tone firm.


    Elsa scoffed, ¡°Oh? And what will you do if I don¡¯t? Are you going to cut ties with me?¡±


    ¡°I might really do that,¡± Ethan replied.


    A chill settled in Ethan¡¯s heart as shadows from the past began to stir. From the earliest days he could recall, Elsa and Emmett had instilled in him the notion that his destinyy in the military. As a child, he was often made to stand at attention and march in lockstep, held to the same rigid standards as a soldier. Even his nkets had to be folded in military style.


    He was harshly disciplined as a child, sometimes even physically, for not meeting his parents¡¯ requirements.


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 Chapter 602

    ?Chapter 602:


    Once he started his own business, he moved out before even finishing college, carving out a space between himself and his parents.


    He was utterly exhausted by that life. He longed for freedom from his parents¡¯ meddling and their relentless dictates on how he should navigate his life.


    Kenny was a different story. He had thrived in that same environment, embracing the military lifestyle with open arms. Obedient, he was the golden child in their parents¡¯ eyes¡ªsmart, ambitious, and entirely different from Ethan.


    Ethan seethed at Kenny¡¯s unwaveringpliance.


    He couldn¡¯t wrap his mind around it. How could anyone blindly follow everymand of their parents like a puppet on strings?


    Ethan gripped his phone, and his dissatisfaction with Kenny only grew. The more he pondered it, the more he wanted tosh out at him. He wanted to call Kenny to do just that.


    Despite Kenny being his elder by a mere ten minutes, he was determined to make it clear that he had no right to meddle in his affairs.


    Fortunately, Brenna was sharp and insightful. She had managed to see through the trap and understand him. If not, he knew he would never be able to forgive Kenny easily for this.


    Brenna had just finished four back-to-back sses and felt parched. She downed half a bottle of water in the car while discussing ns with Giselle about visiting Luther over the weekend. Brenna wanted to address theplications surrounding Rosie¡¯s marriage, hoping Luther could step in and help set things straight.


    They drove home, parking in the yard for Darrell to take the car to the garage.


    In a low voice, Darrell said to them, ¡°Mr. Luther Harper and Mrs. Tessa Harper are here. Rosie brought them, and they don¡¯t seem happy.¡± Brenna and Giselle exchanged a knowing look. Clearly, Rosie had once again twisted the truth to her advantage in advance.


    ¡°Thanks for the heads-up, Darrell. Please go ahead and park the car,¡± Brenna replied.


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    Giselle was seething. It was one thing for Rosie to live with them, but now she was trying to take control of the household, insisting everything be done her way. That was crossing the line.


    Since Giselle married Shepard, Luther and Tessa had never warmed to her. After the ident that imed their third son, they had coerced her into raising Rosie, and she had disliked the idea from the start.


    Now, Luther and Tessa were again trying to pressure her to do something she didn¡¯t want to do. But she was no longer the naive young woman she had been before.


    ¡°Mom, Rosie has crossed a line, dragging Grandpa and Grandma into this chaos,¡± Brenna said, frustration etched across her face.


    Giselle was ready to confront the situation head-on. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. We¡¯re not the ones losing here. At worst, we¡¯ll give Rosie a proper wedding gift for her ridiculous royal wedding. But if she thinks she can drag the entire Harper Group into her mess, she¡¯s dreaming!¡±


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 Chapter 603

    ?Chapter 603:


    As they stepped into the house, Luther and Tessa were conspicuously absent from the living room, likely resting in their room upstairs. Giselle headed to the kitchen to instruct the staff to prepare easy-to-eat dishes for the elders.


    Afterward, she called Shepard, Emmett, and Dalton, insisting they cancel their ns and return home for a family meeting. She mentioned that Luther had already arrived, giving them a heads-up about the storm brewing.


    After dinner, the entire family gathered in the living room, the air thick with tension.


    Rosie sat between Luther and Tessa, her eyes puffy and red, looking like she had been crying.


    ¡°Grandpa, Grandma,¡± Rosie said, putting on a pitiful, frightened act. She clung tightly to Tessa¡¯s arm, ncing around the room. When her gaze met Tessa¡¯s, tears began to stream down her cheeks.


    Tessa was visibly upset. ¡°As long as I¡¯m here, no one can stop you from getting what you deserve! It seems not a single member of this family can stand to see you happy. How could they be like that? You have been an orphan, alone since¡­


    childhood. And now, Shepard¡¯s entire family has banded together to mistreat you. How could they be so cruel?¡±


    Luther shot a re at Shepard and Ableson, his displeasure unmistakable, especially toward Shepard.


    Meanwhile, Brenna was discreetly messaging Ethan under the table. She learned he would be back in three days, and they agreed she would pick him up at the airport.


    Shepard and Ableson exchanged serious nces. Neither objected to Rosie bing Maxley¡¯s concubine; their real concern was her intention to bring Harper Group shares into the marriage.


    Having spent decades navigating the business world, Shepard could sense Rosie¡¯s true motives, even if she hadn¡¯t voiced them outright. That was why he stood firmly against what she wanted to do. He had discussed the matter with Ableson over the past few days, and Ableson agreed with him.


    ¡°Dad,¡± Ableson said, feeling it was his duty to speak up on the matter. If Shepard spoke up, it might appear he was targeting Rosie. ¡°I haven¡¯t treated Rosie unfairly, nor has Shepard. You know us well enough to understand we would never do such a thing. She¡¯s still young and impulsive. We¡¯re only looking out for her best interests.¡±


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    ¡°That¡¯s a load of nonsense! Looking out for her? Spare me your excuses! You just don¡¯t want her to have a good life!¡± Luther snapped, his anger reaching a boiling point.


    Luther¡¯s piercing gaze locked onto Ableson and Shepard, and with a voice like thunder, he unleashed a scathing rebuke. ¡°You¡¯re all blinded by greed, plotting to snatch Rosie¡¯s inheritance right from under her nose! The shares left by Rosie¡¯s father were never meant to be yours!¡±


    He saw through their veiled ambitions, particrly Shepard¡¯s. For years, Shepard had managed the Harper Group, treating it like his own possession. The president¡¯s seat and the vice president position were both held by Shepard¡¯s family members. The board was also filled with people Shepard had chosen.


    Power, once held too long, became impossible to relinquish.


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 Chapter 604

    ?Chapter 604:


    Each word from Luther fell like a hammer on an anvil. ¡°Never forget¡ªI built the Harper Group. The shares will go where I deem fit. I am still at the helm!¡±


    His voice echoed through the room, a stark reminder that despite their ambitions, the final say rested squarely with him.


    Shepard¡¯s face was dark. He knew all too well Luther¡¯s temper¡ªonce ignited, it scorched everyone in its path, regardless of who was watching.


    Luther¡¯s outburst was a rare storm; years of tranquility had dulled the family¡¯s memory of his fury.


    Frustration boiled within Shepard, yet the fear of Luther¡¯s hypertension kept him mute. His lips parted, but no retort escaped.


    Brenna, still a neer to the Harper family, felt no such restraint. Unlike Shepard, Giselle, and Ableson, she was not close to Luther and dared to speak up.


    ¡°Grandpa,¡± she said, ¡°No one is against Rosie¡¯s marriage. But the royal family of Plieca has a different marriage system¡ªthere¡¯s one main wife and several concubines. If Rosie marries Prince Maxley, she may face a life of suffering. We are concerned for her. This isn¡¯t about shares. My dad and Uncle Ableson would never harm her.¡±


    Shepard felt concern for Brenna. He knew that Luther didn¡¯t tolerate retorts like this, especially from a younger family member.


    Brenna had only recently returned to the family, still unfamiliar with the tempest that was Luther and the authority he wielded within the family. Speaking to him in such a way was a surefire recipe for disaster.


    Veins bulged on Luther¡¯s forehead, a telltale sign that his blood pressure was spiking.


    Shepard quickly said, ¡°Brenna, stop talking.¡±


    But before Shepard could attempt to soothe the storm, Luther roared at Brenna, ¡°Who asked you to speak?¡± His voice thundered through the room. ¡°You have no right to speak here without my permission!¡±


    At over eighty years old, Luther had long since ceased to care about the world outside his own walls or the state of the family business. Rosie had deliberately concealed the truth about the royal family of Plieca from him, so he had assumed their marriage customs mirrored those of Vand¡ªone husband, one wife. He had thought Rosie would be happy after marrying Prince Maxley.


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    But he would never admit he hadn¡¯t understood the situation before scolding others. The mistake could only be others¡¯, never his.


    ¡°I already know this! Rosie will be the wife of Maxley. This benefits the Harper Group, in and simple! I think you¡¯re just jealous that Rosie is making such a splendid match! I think this is a tremendous honor!¡± he eximed.


    Ableson and Shepard exchanged helpless nces, both acutely aware of Luther¡¯s vtile temper. They believed they needed to give Luther time to reconsider.


    Ableson took a deep breath, striving to keep his tone calm. ¡°Dad, Rosie wouldn¡¯t be Maxley¡¯s wife; she¡¯d be just a concubine. We can¡¯t allow a Harper member to be someone¡¯s concubine.¡±


    Luther froze for a moment. Then, he snapped his gaze toward Rosie.


    Rosie looked awkward and slightly panicked, but she quickly regained herposure. ¡°Grandpa, they don¡¯t understand. I¡¯m marrying Prince Maxley as his wife, not as a concubine.¡±


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 Chapter 605

    ?Chapter 605:


    The revtion that she might be a concubine was something Brenna had disclosed.


    Everyone turned their eyes to Brenna, uncertainty hanging in the air as they questioned the uracy of her information.


    Brenna spoke up immediately, her tone resolute, ¡°She¡¯s lying. They only want her as a concubine. Originally, the royalty of Plieca sought the Princess of Orwall to be Prince Maxley¡¯s wife, but she refused. For a political marriage, how could they ever allow someone without political connections to be Prince Maxley¡¯s wife?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not true!¡± Rosie eximed, her voice trembling with indignation. Tears threatened to spill as she defended herself. ¡°Who knows my situation better¡ªme or you? Where did you get that information? You¡¯re just jealous because I¡¯m marrying someone a lot better than your boyfriend.¡±


    Brenna scoffed. ¡°Not jealous. And didn¡¯t we already agree to your marrying Maxley as his wife? Whether you have a good life in Plieca or not has nothing to do with us.¡±


    Rosie fell silent, momentarily at a loss for words.


    After a moment¡¯s thought, Rosie finally spoke. ¡°You just don¡¯t want to return my dad¡¯s shares to me! I don¡¯t want you managing my shares anymore. I want to take back my father¡¯s shares and marry Prince Maxley. From now on, the Harper Group¡­¡±


    Luther¡¯s expression darkened like a brewing storm.


    He had invested his heart and soul into the Harper Group over a lifetime. While he could ept the idea of splitting the assets equally among his three sons and even consider giving a few shares to his grandchildren, he refused to see his hard-earned legacy torn apart. Right now, the Harper Group was valued at one hundred billion. The Harper family was barely scraping into the ranks of Shirie¡¯s four most powerful families and stood among the top twenty enterprises in the nation of Vand.


    If a third of the Harper Group were carved out, thepany would lose its standing among Shirie¡¯s elite, and nationwide, it might not even remain within the top hundred.


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    ¡°Not a chance!¡± Luther eximed.


    At those words, Rosie shattered into tears, feeling deeply aggrieved. ¡°Grandpa!¡± she cried, her eyes overflowing as she looked at Luther. ¡°I just want to take my father¡¯s shares¡­¡±


    The veins in Luther¡¯s temples throbbed even more, his eyes wide with disappointment as he fixed his gaze on Rosie. ¡°Don¡¯t even think about it. I dedicated my entire life to building the Harper Group into what it is today. This is my legacy, and I won¡¯t let anyone rip it apart! If you keep pushing me, you¡¯ll be cut off from the Harper Group for good; you won¡¯t see a single cent of it ever again!¡±


    ¡°Oh, Luther, don¡¯t get so worked up. Watch your blood pressure!¡± Tessa, seated beside him, urged anxiously.


    Shepard and Ableson exchanged worried nces. The Harper Group meant everything to Luther; splitting it up felt like tearing out a piece of his soul.


    Ableson and Shepard stepped forward, their voices harmonizing to soothe him. ¡°Dad, please, don¡¯t get upset. Your health is the priority.¡±


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 Chapter 606

    ?Chapter 606:


    But Luther shot up suddenly, ring furiously at Rosie. He raised his cane, poised to strike. ¡°You little brat!¡±


    Just then, a wave of dizziness washed over him. The room swirled, and with a heavy thud, he copsed onto the sofa.


    His eyes fluttered half-closed, his spirit seemingly evaporated. No matter how the family called out to him, Luther didn¡¯t respond. Tessa was beside herself with worry, gripping Luther¡¯s hand tightly, refusing to let go.


    Her own legs felt like jelly, and she too was swept away by a wave of dizziness.


    The Harper household erupted into chaos.


    The entire Harper family waited anxiously outside the emergency room. Luther had been diagnosed with a cerebral hemorrhage and rushed in for emergency treatment, while Tessa was also being treated by doctors.


    Rosie felt a flicker of guilt, but it was overshadowed by resentment. The one person who had always shielded her¡ªLuther¡ªwas now opposing her over the division of family assets.


    In a dark corner of her mind, she thought that things might be simpler if Luther were gone. If he were no longer around, splitting the Harper family¡¯s assets would be easier.


    An hourter, the light above the emergency room flickered off. The doctor emerged, his face grave, shaking his head at the family. ¡°Luther suffered a brainstem hemorrhage. We did everything we could, but we were unable to save him. He passed away at 10:59 p.m. I¡¯m very sorry.¡±


    Shepard and Ableson watched as Luther, covered by a white sheet, was wheeled out. Tears streamed down their faces, guilt gnawing at them. They had known about his hypertension; they should never have let him get that angry.


    Luther had literally been angered to death.


    Even Rosie couldn¡¯t hold back her tears. Though she had schemed against him, Luther had always doted on her since she was a child. She had been close to him.


    Get thetest updates on g?ln¦Ò¦Í????s


    Because of the funeral, Rosie had to cancel the grand reception celebrating her engagement to Prince Maxley.


    In keeping with tradition, Luther wasid to rest just three days after his passing.


    ¡°I still want to take my father¡¯s shares,¡± Rosie said solemnly to Shepard and Ableson.


    This was the third time Rosie had made her desires clear.


    Ableson and Shepard had talked about the matter the previous evening. Shepard cleared his throat, his voice thick with emotion. ¡°Rosie, you can¡¯t take the shares out of thepany. We can¡¯t go against your grandfather¡¯s wishes. Here¡¯s what we¡¯ll do: your Uncle Ableson and I will convert your father¡¯s shares into cash and transfer it to your ount. The Harper Group is valued at one hundred and twenty billion. Your grandfather always said the shares should be split equally among us three brothers. You¡¯ll inherit your father¡¯s portion, whiches to about forty billion.¡±


    Ableson nodded and said, ¡°Your Uncle Shepard and I will transfer the forty billion to your ount in installments over the next month. Does that work for you?¡±


    Giselle, Lenora, and the Harper children, who were listening nearby, were all taken aback. While the Harper Group¡¯s market value stood at one hundred and twenty billion, paying out such a sum at once would cripple thepany¡¯s finances; there was no way they coulde up with that much cash in such a short span.


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 Chapter 607

    ?Chapter 607:


    Ernst was the first to voice his concern. ¡°Uncle Ableson, Dad, this would drain the Harper Group¡¯s cash flow. Thepany wouldn¡¯t be able to operate, and we¡¯d face a crisis.¡±


    Dalton, still finding his feet in the world of business, also understood the gravity of the situation. ¡°Ernst is right. This is way too risky.¡±


    But Rosie was all for it. She wanted the Harper Group to crumble. If she couldn¡¯t have it, then no one else should either.


    ¡°I think it¡¯s a great idea,¡± she said.


    Giselle, a professor of finance, spoke up. ¡°We can¡¯t do this. This is far too dangerous. One misstep, and the Harper Group could go bankrupt.¡±


    ¡°We can¡¯t do this,¡± Brenna echoed. ¡°To keep the business stable, we should spread out the payments over ten years if Rosie insists on cash. It is not possible to provide it all in a month!¡±


    This approach would allow the Harper Group to weather the storm.


    ¡°This doesn¡¯t concern you, Brenna,¡± Rosie said sharply.


    At first, Rosie didn¡¯t think much of this. After all, everyone in the Harper family knew that she and Brenna didn¡¯t get along. They had shed more than once, and neither had evere out on top. This time, Rosie was gearing up to take a significant slice of the Harper family¡¯s fortune with her, so it was only natural for Brenna to throw a wrench in her ns. After all, it would put a dent in Brenna¡¯s own interests, too. Rosie wasn¡¯t caught off guard by Brenna¡¯s resistance; it was predictable.


    As for the rest of the Harper family, Rosie figured they wouldn¡¯t say anything about this. They always listened to Luther, and no one ever dared go against his wishes. Rosie was convinced she would ultimately seed in reiming what was rightfully hers.


    Brenna fixed Rosie with a cold, unwavering stare. She hadn¡¯t discussed this with the rest of the family, but she believed that none of them wanted to witness the Harper family spiral into chaos, let alone be torn asunder.


    Determined to gather their support and present a united front against Rosie, she said, ¡°Of course this concerns me. You pushed Grandfather to his death. Now you have the audacity to squabble over the inheritance?¡±


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    Rosie was momentarily struck dumb, the instinct to retort bubbling up within her. But deep down, she knew that Luther¡¯s death had indeed been a consequence of her actions. Still, that didn¡¯t mean she was willing to abandon what was rightfully hers.


    She remembered the funeral vividly, where she had kept a vigil by Luther¡¯s side, her heart heavy with grief, her eyes puffy and red from crying.


    As she scanned the faces of the Harper family¡ªAbleson, Shepard, Ernst, Dalton, Lennon, and even Audrey¡ªeach one bore a look of reproach. Not a single person came to her defense.


    She locked eyes with Ernst, the family member who had always showered her with affection. But now, even he remained silent, leaving her with a piercing sense of disappointment.


    Her heart twisted in agony, and resentment toward Ernst surged within her.


    ¡°I know I am partly responsible for Grandpa¡¯s death, but¡ª¡± she began, desperate to justify herself.


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 Chapter 608

    ?Chapter 608:


    Brenna cut her off, her tone blunt and unyielding. ¡°But what? Thest thing Grandpa said before he passed was that the Harper Group must never be divided. If you insist on tearing it apart, you¡¯re defying his wishes.¡±


    Rosie was taken aback. She had never anticipated that Brenna, who typically kept to herself and always seemed indifferent to this kind of thing, would be the first to challenge her. Since when did someone who had only returned to the family a few months ago have the gall to interfere in this?


    ¡°This is the Harper family¡¯s business. Who do you think you are to meddle?¡± Rosie shot back, her anger igniting. ¡°You¡¯re just worried I¡¯ll slice into the inheritance and shrink your own share, aren¡¯t you? Stop pretending you are doing this for the family; you are selfish!¡±


    Brenna had braced herself for that very response. Everyone in the Harper family was currently burdened with guilt over Luther¡¯s death. Even Tessa remained in the hospital, unaware that Luther had passed. Aside from Brenna, no one in the family would stand up to Rosie. If Rosie insisted on iming her shares, they might actually let her take them.


    That was why Brenna had to take a stand.


    Her greatest concern was Shepard. For the past two decades, ever since Luther had stepped down as president of the Harper Group, Shepard had poured his heart and soul into running thepany. To him, the Harper Group was as precious as his own child.


    If Rosie took away that much money, it could spell disaster for thepany.


    Despite its impressive market valuation, the Harper Group¡¯s cash flow was far from plentiful. Losing forty billion would deal a devastating blow.


    Shepard hoped that Brenna could persuade Rosie.


    Now, as he watched Brenna¡¯s determined stance, a flicker of hope ignited within him. Perhaps Brenna, who had only recently returned to the family, truly understood the stakes and possessed the courage to act.


    ¡°Anyone who is part of this family has the right to interfere. You and I are both Grandpa¡¯s granddaughters. Why do you get to do whatever you want, even if it means pushing Grandpa to death? Why can¡¯t I stand up against you?¡± Brenna said.


    Updated stories galno¦Íe?s


    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to cause Grandpa¡¯s death! Why do you keep mentioning that? What do you want from me? Should I die to atone for it? How can you be so cruel?¡± Rosie shot back, realizing how piercing Brenna¡¯s words were.


    Why hadn¡¯t she noticed this side of Brenna before? What had ignited this fire in her?


    Honestly, if Brenna had simply remained silent, Rosie was confident she could have swayed the others, even if she had to wield guilt like a weapon to pressure the family intopliance.


    ¡°Grandpa promised me I¡¯d get my father¡¯s shares. Are you all really going to defy his wishes?¡± Rosie said, attempting to bypass Brenna and rally the rest of the family.


    She turned to Shepard. ¡°Uncle Shepard, didn¡¯t Grandpa promise me I¡¯d inherit my father¡¯s shares?¡±


    Shepard nodded slowly. ¡°He always said he would give you your father¡¯s shares eventually. He was simply holding onto them for you.¡±


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 Chapter 609

    ?Chapter 609:


    Feeling a flicker of hope, Rosie sensed victory was within reach. She shot a triumphant nce at Brenna and turned to Ableson. ¡°Uncle Ableson, what are your thoughts about this?¡±


    Ableson said, ¡°Your grandfather intended for you to have the shares. But he never said you could cash them out.¡±


    Rosie replied, her voice brimming with conviction, ¡°If those shares belong to me, I should be free to do with them as I please.¡±


    ¡°Is that the case?¡± Brenna said tly.


    The men of the Harper family looked at Brenna, secretly hoping she could persuade Rosie to relinquish her im to the shares.


    It wasn¡¯t that they shied away from confrontation; rather, they understood that stepping in might appear as if they were ganging up on Rosie, potentially tarnishing the family¡¯s reputation.


    Family feuds over money and power were asmon as rain in spring, and while some resorted to underhanded tactics, Shepard and Ableson had been raised by Luther to stand united and avoid internal strife.


    In the two days since Luther¡¯s passing, both had discreetly checked the will he left behind, knowing it did not favor Rosie. Yet, they hesitated to bring it up themselves, hoping Brenna would be the one to spill the beans.


    Neither of them wanted Rosie to think they were mistreating her.


    ¡°I remember Grandpa saying the Harper Group must never be split apart,¡± Brenna said.


    Rosie shot back defiantly, her tone sharp as a knife, ¡°You think you can deny me my father¡¯s shares? nning to keep them for yourselves? Uncles, say something!¡±


    She boldly demanded that her uncles respond.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to pressure them to speak; I can answer you,¡± Brenna said, casting a nce at the Harper men.


    They all kept their mouths shut, none eager to y the viin. Brenna believed she had to be the one to address this.


    g¦Á ?¦Ç ¦Ò ¦Í?? ??s holds great reads


    ¡°Maybe you haven¡¯t considered that Grandpa, being the astute man he was, foresaw this daying. Given his character, he surely left behind a will. Why don¡¯t we honor his wishes and distribute the inheritance ording to the will?¡± Brenna said.


    Brenna¡¯s lips twisted into a faint, enigmatic smile, and a steely glint sparkled in her eyes. She, too, had read the will and knew it was not in Rosie¡¯s favor.


    Rosie caught the expression on Brenna¡¯s face and felt a knot of unease tighten in her stomach. ¡°What are you on about? Uncle Ableson and Uncle Shepard imed their shares long ago. All the shares Grandpa left are mine. How could you divide them?¡±


    Standing her ground, Rosie dered, ¡°Back then¡­¡±


    But as Rosie tried to sift through her childhood memories, she realized she had no recollection of Luther ever dividing the Harper Group¡¯s shares between Ableson and Shepard.


    A wave of dread washed over her. What she did remember was Luther allocating five percent to Ernst and five percent each to Dalton and Lennon, totaling fifteen percent. She also recalled Audrey receiving two percent, and herself the same. Just recently, Brenna had been granted an additional two percent.


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 Chapter 610

    ?Chapter 610:


    That added up to twenty-one percent.


    Could it be that these twenty-one percent of shares were originally her father¡¯s?


    Her heart raced as everything clicked into ce. No wonder Brenna was speaking of dividing her grandfather¡¯s shares.


    No wonder her uncles and cousins were silent; they had been the ones taking advantage of the situation!


    Brenna noticed the shift in Rosie¡¯s expression. She knew Rosie wasn¡¯t stupid; she had pieced it together. Luther hadn¡¯t left many shares behind at all.


    Over the years, Luther had distributed shares to various family members, even ensuring support for his three brothers and several nephews. Otherwise, how else would the shareholders¡¯ meetings always have such a crowd?


    ¡°You!¡± Rosie trembled with anger, her pulse racing. If she weren¡¯t young and healthy, she might have copsed from her emotions, just like Luther.


    ¡°Mr. Goodman, pleasee in,¡± Brenna said, dialing a number.


    A few momentster, a man in his sixties entered¡ªMatt Goodman, Luther¡¯s most trustedwyer during his presidency at the Harper Group. He had overseen all the share transfers during Luther¡¯s tenure. Rosie¡¯s heart sank deeper. Suddenly, she recalled Luther¡¯s words to his granddaughters.


    ¡°When you all get married, your shares won¡¯t be reimed. But they can¡¯t be transferred outside the Harper family. Upon your passing, your shares will return to the family.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s heart plummeted as she grasped the implication. Luther believed only men should inherit. The Harper Group shares could only be passed down to sons and grandsons.


    An overwhelming urge to cry surged within Rosie, and she quickly snatched the file from Matt¡¯s hands. A quick nce shattered her world further: Luther had only seven percent of the shares left.


    The document clearly stated that after Luther¡¯s passing, his shares would be divided evenly among the men of the Harper family. There was nothing left for her.


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    The document slipped from her fingers and fell to the floor as Rosie copsed, her knees buckling. ¡°No¡­ This can¡¯t be true! My parents died when I was just a child. Grandpa loved me the most. How could he give away my father¡¯s shares to others? Why?¡± she yelled at the people around her.


    Shepard, knowing the will¡¯s contents, calmly retrieved the document and spoke softly to her. ¡°Rosie, don¡¯t be upset. You¡¯re marrying Prince Maxley. Ableson and I will give you a proper wedding gift. If you encounter any challenges in the royal family, you can always turn to us.¡±


    ¡°Why is this happening?¡± Rosie cried out, her voice raw with desperation. ¡°This isn¡¯t fair! I won¡¯t ept it! I¡¯m suing all of you! I will reim what belongs to my father!¡±


    Brenna raised an eyebrow, looking down at her. ¡°Sue all you want. But this is Grandpa¡¯s property. He could give it to whoever he chose.¡±


    Rosie burned with fury toward every man in the Harper family. Now, she understood why none of them had spoken up earlier. They had already pocketed all the benefits for themselves.


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 Chapter 611

    ?Chapter 611:


    She saw it clearly now. Every one of them wore a mask of fake concern in front of her. Ableson and Shepard even had the nerve to say they were preparing her wedding gift and that she coulde to them if she faced trouble. The hypocrisy made her stomach turn.


    Disappointment washed over her. These people were nothing but leeches, feeding off her without a shred of shame.


    Even Luther, who had spent years professing how much he adored her, had taken her father¡¯s shares to win favors from others. They were all liars. Everyst one of them!


    Rosie could not hold it back anymore. She let loose and hurled every bitter thought she had been holding inside.


    The Harper men stayed silent. Brenna did not say a word either. She had already stirred enough anger in Rosie and decided to just watch her explode.


    It was Giselle and Lenora who finally couldn¡¯t hold back anymore. They could not take the usations and started arguing back.


    That night, Rosie packed her things and moved out of the Harper mansion. She settled into her own 200-square-meter luxury apartment. Rachael went there with her, refusing to leave her side.


    Rosie¡¯s heart ached with betrayal. She hated every member of the Harper family, especially Luther, the man who had imed for years that he cherished her.


    The next morning, every male shareholder of the Harper Group received a summons from the Shirie City court.


    In her rage, Rosie had sued all the men in the Harper family.


    Word of the Harper family¡¯s troubles spread like wildfire through Shirie¡¯s high society. But that didn¡¯t affect the Harper Group at all.


    Meanwhile, Brenna was busy hunting for a new office.


    Tommy and Joe had brought in a flood of new employees. Their current space was bursting at the seams.


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    On Tuesday evening, Ethan took Brenna out to dinner.


    Wanting the night to be special, Ethan had turned to Neville for advice. Neville, with a grin, suggested they visit a couples¡¯ restaurant and even rmended a few of the best ones in the city. Following Neville¡¯s advice, Ethan finally chose a spot.


    ¡°Do you like it here?¡± Ethan asked Brenna. He was not used to ces like this. Most of his meals were at high-end restaurants, the kind reserved for business deals and formal banquets.


    This restaurant was different. It catered to mid-to-low-ie diners, with affordable prices and a simple, cozy atmosphere.


    It was not the kind of ce Ethan usually went to.


    Brenna took her time looking around. Each booth was separated by curtains or partitions, giving the couples a sense of privacy. Candles flickered softly on the tables, bathing everything in a warm, golden glow. The setting eased the tension in her shoulders. She wasn¡¯t used to it either. She had never been in a rtionship before, and ces like this felt almost foreign to her.


    ncing to the side, she caught sight of a couple in the next booth, kissing. Heat rushed to her cheeks, and she whipped her head back toward Ethan, trying to hide her embarrassment.


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 Chapter 612

    ?Chapter 612:


    ¡°It¡¯s nice,¡± she said.


    Ethan pulled out a rose from behind his back and handed it to her.


    Brenna¡¯s eyes lit up. She had not expected someone like Ethan, who always seemed so serious and business-minded, to think of giving her flowers. Lately, he had given her plenty of gifts, so she wasn¡¯t entirely surprised. Still, the gesture warmed her heart.


    She lifted the rose to her nose and breathed in its soft scent. As she did, she caught sight of a gold ne with a sapphire pendant nestled among the petals.


    ¡°Another surprise?¡± she said, her voice bubbling with delight.


    Ovee with emotion and still thinking of the couple she had seen earlier, she stood up. Then, she leaned across the table and pulled Ethan in for a kiss.


    It was just a light peck.


    By the time Ethan registered what had happened, Brenna was already back in her seat, grinning.


    ¡°Thank you. I love it,¡± she said.


    Brenna felt she owed him that much. He had not only showered her with gifts but had also risked everything to save her in Plieca. Ethan, however, was still caught up in the feeling of that kiss and reyed the softness of Brenna¡¯s lips in his mind.


    If only it hadsted a little longer, that would have been perfect. He wondered when Brenna might kiss him again.


    So lost was he in his thoughts that he did not even catch what Brenna was saying.


    A foolish smile tugged at his mouth before he could stop it.


    ¡°Ethan, I never expected to see you in a ce like this.¡± A mocking voice sliced through the moment.


    At once, Ethan¡¯s expression turned cold. He turned and saw Rosie and Maxley approaching.


    They were arm in arm, looking every bit the close couple. Maxley wore a ttering smile as he extended his hand toward Ethan.


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    Neither of them spared Brenna a nce.


    Maxley, though unfamiliar with Vand¡¯snguage, had enough sense to tell that Ethan was in a good mood now.


    Ethan rose from his seat, shook hands with Maxley, and offered a nd greeting. ¡°Hello.¡±


    Maxley pulled an invitation from his inside pocket and handed it over with both hands.


    Speaking in Plieca¡¯snguage, he said, ¡°I¡¯m hosting my first businessworking event here in Vand. Several prominent entrepreneurs from Plieca will attend. I hope we can discuss potential coborations, Mr. Mitchell.¡±


    Ethan gave the invitation a cursory nce before epting it and setting it on the table. ¡°Sure. I¡¯ll be there.¡±


    Rosie looked at him, her expression torn between hope and grievance.


    She was painfully aware that herwsuit against the Harper family was shaky at best. She hoped Ethan could help her. ¡°Ethan, have you heard about what¡¯s happening with the Harper family?¡±


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 Chapter 613

    ?Chapter 613:


    Brenna shot Rosie a sharp look. Was Rosie really this stupid or just putting on an act? After her attempt to have Ethan killed in Plieca, did she truly have the gall to ask for his help? Had she lost her mind?


    Yet, as Brenna reconsidered, perhaps Rosie was throwing a test balloon into the air. Though their wedding hadn¡¯t yet taken ce, news of Rosie¡¯s impending marriage to Maxley had already swept through Shirie like wildfire. She had even unted the official royal endorsement from Plieca on her social media, making it clear why she was so arrogant.


    Rosie scrutinized Ethan, searching for clues to determine whether he valued the potential alliance with Plieca¡¯s royal family more than he resented her past treachery.


    She had made up her mind. If Ethan held no grudges, she would join forces with him against the Harper family.


    But given his close bond with Brenna, she needed to test the waters first.


    Winning Ethan over would take more than just a few words; she had a meticulous strategy in mind.


    With a swift tug, she pulled Maxley down into the seats beside Brenna and Ethan without waiting for permission, forcing Brenna to sit next to her while Maxley encroached on Ethan¡¯s space, a move that made Ethan and Brenna displeased.


    Maxley even offered Ethan a smile.


    Brenna instinctively shifted away, creating a little more distance between Rosie and her. That was when Rosie noticed the rose resting on the table. The sight stung her.


    Having grown up with Ethan, she was acutely aware that he rarely gifted anything to anyone outside his family, especially not to women.


    So why was it Brenna who received his gift now?


    This meant something significant.


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    The impulse to tear the rose into pieces red within Rosie. Ethan replied with an air of indifference, ¡°Yeah, I heard.¡±


    Rosie said, ¡°So, Ethan, what¡¯s your take on this?¡±


    She believed Ethan was likely on Brenna¡¯s side. Hoping to sway him, she added, ¡°If you¡¯re willing to support me, the royal family of Plieca will significantly bolster its cooperation with you. Isn¡¯t that something worth considering?¡± She was testing his attitude.


    After all, what was love when weighed against self-interest?


    Ethan nced at Brenna. Her expression remained unchanged, as if the entire situation were irrelevant to her and the Harper Group.


    ¡°I¡¯m on Brenna¡¯s side,¡± Ethan said.


    Rosie¡¯s disappointment was palpable, but she had anticipated this oue. What she said today was merely the first step in her strategy.


    ¡°All right, I understand.¡± Rosie rose gracefully with Maxley. ¡°I won¡¯t disturb you further.¡±


    As soon as Rosie and Maxley left, Brenna scoffed, ¡°What does Maxley see in her?¡±


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 Chapter 614

    ?Chapter 614:


    She wrinkled her nose. ¡°They were both revolting.¡±


    For some reason, she just couldn¡¯t stand Maxley. She also didn¡¯t like his overpowering cologne.


    Ethan let out a low hum of agreement. ¡°I don¡¯t like him either. He is ambitious butcks the skills to back it up. All talk, no substance. He only knows how to y dirty behind the scenes. The hotel fire¡ªthat was part of his doing.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°You looked into it?¡±


    Ethan smiled softly, and Brenna realized just how charming he was when he smiled.


    ¡°The hotel fire was orchestrated by Rosie, Edward, and Maxley. The three of them joined forces, with Rosie connecting the two.¡± Ethan¡¯s expression turned serious. ¡°Rosie has more influence in Plieca than just through Maxley and Edward. I¡¯ve checked¡ªshe owns twopanies there and has awork of people working for her. Otherwise, how could she feel so at home in Plieca?¡±


    A thought struck Brenna. ¡°If four billion were invested in Plieca, what would Rosie gain from it?¡±


    Ethan replied, ¡°She¡¯d be able to control about a tenth of the capital flow in Plieca.¡±


    That aligned perfectly with Brenna¡¯s thoughts. ¡°She¡¯s definitely ambitious. I bet she and Maxley are entangled by mutual interests; otherwise, why would he value her so highly?¡±


    Ethan nodded in agreement. ¡°I heard that Maxley fought tooth and nail in front of the King to have Rosie as his wife. Rosie¡¯s been bragging everywhere back home.¡±


    ¡°About bing Maxley¡¯s wife; it¡¯s not just big talk. She could very well be Maxley¡¯s wife. If, as you mentioned, the Harper Group¡¯s four billion flows into Plieca, then with Maxley¡¯s status as a prince, Rosie could effectively call the shots in Plieca.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s mind raced with possibilities. ¡°So it seems Rosie is dead set on grabbing hold of the Harper Group¡¯s shares. Send me what you¡¯ve discovered so I can alert my brothers and father about this. I can¡¯t let them fall into Rosie¡¯s trap.¡±


    ?????????????? ????????????? ???????? ???????????????? ???? ?????????¦Í??????£®??????


    When Brenna arrived home, she found Ernst engrossed in a heated conversation on his phone, lounging in the living room. He motioned for her to take a seat on the couch as he spoke into the receiver. ¡°It¡¯s about Rosie. She¡¯s contesting Grandpa¡¯s will and has taken legal action against all Harper Group shareholders. Uncle Carsen, let¡¯s have a meeting tomorrow to discuss this.¡±


    The response crackled with indignation from the other end. ¡°What¡¯s there even to discuss? When Luther allocated those shares, everything was by the book,plete with contracts and official seals. She won¡¯t win this in court. Does she expect us to just return them? There¡¯s no reason we should surrender anything. And I¡¯m not wasting a day in court over this.¡±


    Ernst¡¯s expression tightened with concern as he said, ¡°I understand, Uncle Carsen. Returning the shares isn¡¯t on the table. But thiswsuit is dragging down the Harper Group¡¯s stock value. It seems someone has leaked the dispute, twisting the narrative to depict us as bullies targeting an orphan. Our shares have already dropped two points, wiping out two to three billion in value.¡±


    Brenna remained silent, absorbing the conversation until Ernst ended the call. No sooner had he turned to talk to her than his phone rang again.


    He was trapped in a relentless wave of calls from other rtives.


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 Chapter 615

    ?Chapter 615:


    After half an hour of nonstop discussions, he finally put down the phone. ¡°Brenna, there¡¯s an emergency board meeting tomorrow. You should be there.¡±


    Brenna could see he was tired but couldn¡¯t do anything to help him. ¡°Have you taken the reins at the Harper Group again?¡±


    Ernst exhaled deeply. ¡°Yes, after Grandpa died, Dad¡¯s been faltering¡ªhis blood pressure is high, and this chaos is only making it worse. Dalton, who just assumed control, can¡¯t manage it and has passed the buck to me.¡±


    Brenna managed a smile. ¡°You¡¯re handling it well. Just say the word, and I¡¯ll pitch in. I have a bit of a background in finance. Perhaps I can help.¡±


    While Ernst knew of Brenna¡¯s prowess in mechanical design and her finance studio, he had yet to witness her financial acumen firsthand. Yet, her assurance stirred something in him. He said, ¡°The Harper Group is floundering. Rosie is relentless in her pursuit of those shares, and she¡¯s rallying support. If you¡¯re up for it, help us keep an eye on the stock market. I¡¯ll grant you backend ess. I¡¯m swamped managing PR and internal chaos. I just don¡¯t have the strength to handle it right now.¡±


    Brenna agreed without hesitation, her decision firm. After all, the Harper Group wasn¡¯t just a business to her; it was the legacy of her family. She couldn¡¯t simply sit on the sidelines when thepany was in trouble.


    ¡°Tonight, I¡¯ll put together an emergency strategy for tomorrow¡¯s meeting,¡± she said, her tone resolute. ¡°We can discuss it then.¡±


    Ernst sank back into his seat, visibly relieved. Managing the conglomerate¡¯s burdens alone had been overwhelming, and Brenna¡¯s support was a lifeline he desperately needed.


    Brenna actually admired Ernst. He had always been a man of honor, gracefully epting defeat months earlier. Now, faced with thepany¡¯s turmoil, he was stepping up without a second thought.


    Brenna said, ¡°We need to brace ourselves. Some shareholders are bound to panic. If thepany¡¯s shares take a dive, they might rush to sell off their stakes. There¡¯s already chatter that our family is nning to liquidate forty billion in cash; that could spell disaster.¡±


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    Her heart twisted at the sight of Ernst¡¯s newly sprouted gray hairs. She continued, ¡°Let the rtives be my concern. Pass me their contact details; I¡¯ll speak to them. We¡¯re in this together.¡±


    Ernst felt a rush of gratitude. Most of the Harper family only made things harder for him; even Shepard and Ableson seemed helpless. But Brenna offered him help.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± he said, feeling the weight on his shoulders lighten.


    Brenna spent the entire night tirelessly working. She formted strategic ns,bated malicious rumors online, and even coborated with Ethan¡¯s PR team to halt the spread of detrimental stories about the Harper family.


    In addition, she prepared press releases for the Harper Group¡¯s PR department, ready to be distributed.


    The following morning, she meticulously applied her makeup and met up with Shepard, Ernst, and Dalton at the bustling headquarters of the Harper Group.


    The building buzzed with activity¡ªshareholders had arrived early, and reporters swarmed the entrance.


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 Chapter 616

    ?Chapter 616:


    As soon as Shepard and his children stepped out of the car, a swarm of reporters surrounded them.


    Cameras and microphones were thrust aggressively towards Shepard and Ernst, the reporters bombarding them with a barrage of questions. ¡°Is it true that the Harper Group ns to grant Rosie Harper forty billion as a wedding gift?¡±


    ¡°Could thepany be on the verge of bankruptcy because of this?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ve heard whispers of executives seeking new employment. Any thoughts on that?¡±


    The security detail of the Harper Group strained every muscle to hold the reporters at bay. However, the journalists threw decorum out the window and surged forward with a relentless barrage of questions. After a grueling struggle, Shepard and the others finally pushed their way into the Harper Group building.


    Inside the elevator, Shepard, his mood as dark as a storm cloud, turned to Ernst and asked sharply, ¡°Wasn¡¯t this board meeting supposed to be confidential? How the hell did the media find out about it?¡±


    Ernst, who had worked until 3 a.m. and barely caught two hours of sleep, felt drained mentally, though youth still lent him some physical stamina.


    He said, ¡°Dad, there are thirty-seven executives in the Harper Group. I emphasized the importance of confidentiality when I made the calls yesterday, but I can¡¯t promise every one of them kept their lips sealed.¡±


    ncing at her father, Brenna saw how much more gray hair he had now. The recent events had taken their toll on him, making him look older than he was.


    She said, ¡°Dad, don¡¯t stress. We¡¯ve got this. The three of us will handle it. I stayed up all night preparing solutions and will convince the board. Rosie was probably the one who tipped off those reporters.¡±


    Ernst immediately countered, ¡°But I never informed Rosie about this meeting. How could she possibly know?¡±


    Dalton gave a derisive snort. ¡°I knew it! She has obviously decided that if she can¡¯t get her hands on the money, nobody else should, either. She is aiming for mutual destruction, in and simple.¡±


    g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s is where your journey begins


    Brenna nodded seriously. ¡°Exactly. Since she can¡¯t get the shares, she¡¯d rather drag the whole Harper Group down with her. A normal board change wouldn¡¯t cause this kind of panic. But today, as soon as the market opened, our stock price plummeted to its daily limit.¡±


    She showed her phone, and the sharp drop in stock price made everyone¡¯s faces tighten, especially Shepard¡¯s.


    The Harper Group was his life¡¯s work. Seeing it hurt like this made his eyes well up with tears.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Dad,¡± Brenna said gently. ¡°I have dealt with crises like this before. I stayed up all night working with Ethan. He helped mee up with a n. We can still fix this.¡±


    Shepard asked, ¡°What are you nning to do?¡±


    Brenna had never been involved in managing the Harper Group before; she only ran two studios of her own. Yet, she carried herself with the poise of a seasoned executive.


    Brenna quickly showed some documents from her folder and began exining the n she and Ethan had worked on through the night. ¡°The real problem isn¡¯t from within. It¡¯s from outside. Only one person in the family is colluding with Rosie.¡±


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 Chapter 617

    ?Chapter 617:


    ¡°Someone in the family is working with Rosie?¡± Shepard frowned, finding it hard to believe. Why would anyone from the Harper family risk their interests just to help Rosie?


    Just then, Brenna¡¯s phone buzzed with two iing messages.


    Brenna had asked Ethan and Thiago to investigate Rosie. By morning, they had discovered that Jacob Harper, Luther¡¯s younger brother¡¯s underachieving grandson, was the mole. Repeatedly turned down for executive roles at the Harper Group by Shepard, Ernst, and Lennon because of his ipetence, Jacob had nurtured a bitter grudge that had grown into a desire to see thepany crumble.


    Always on the hunt for anyone within the Harper family who harbored ill will toward Shepard¡¯s family, Rosie had quickly found Jacob.


    ¡°It¡¯s Jacob,¡± Brenna said, her eyes glued to her phone.


    As the elevator doors slid open, the group made their way to the CEO¡¯s office. Brenna didn¡¯t waste any time and continued to share what she had learned.


    Shepard¡¯s face darkened into a deep scowl after hearing her words. ¡°That good-for-nothing barely graduated from a third-rate college. He spent his college years messing around with women and got two of them pregnant. After graduation, Luther had to mop up his messes more times than I could count. Even the 0.2% of shares Luther handed him¡ªenough for him to livefortably for life¡ªwasn¡¯t enough to satisfy him. He wanted more and demanded management positions. When Luther firmly refused him, he came to me. But I also refused him.¡±


    Ernst nodded in confirmation. ¡°He has pestered me about the matter more than once. He will probably show up today, Brenna. How do we deal with him?¡±


    Brenna was calm. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Once we take Jacob out of the equation, most of the problems will be solved.¡±


    Before she could exin further about her n, a knock sounded at the door. The secretary announced, ¡°Ms. Rosie Harper is here.¡±


    Everyone in the room frowned. So, Rosie had the nerve to show up here.


    Ernst replied, ¡°I see.¡±


    Shepard pulled a small bottle of blood pressure pills from his pocket and swallowed one. ¡°Let¡¯s calm down and stay on task now that we know the root of the problem. Ernst, make arrangements for a press conferenceter.¡±


    Brenna said, ¡°Regarding the stock situation, I have secured thirty billion from my contacts to help stabilize the price. During the board meeting, all we need to do is¡­¡±


    Shepard, Ernst, and Dalton stared at Brenna in disbelief, their curiosity sparked by the extent of her connections.


    ¡°Brenna, which friend of yours could get thirty billion to rescue the Harper Group like this?¡± Shepard asked, his tone a mix of surprise and skepticism. It seemed hard to believe she had such a wealthy acquaintance.


    Ernst leaned in, equally curious. ¡°Even Ethan wouldn¡¯t be able to free up that kind of capital for a market rescue. Who is this friend of yours?¡±


    Brenna hesitated, weighing her words carefully. Calling in this favor had note without a price; she owed a considerable debt to make it happen.


    ¡°An entrepreneur friend from Norview,¡± she answered cryptically, leaving out the details.


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 Chapter 618

    ?Chapter 618:


    In reality, this person was a rival of Edward¡ªa powerful underworld figure who had long been suppressed by Edward. During their recent mission in Plieca, Brenna and Ethan had taken down Edward, paving the way for this rival to seize his assets. That was why Brenna had asked for his help.


    While he believed Brenna¡¯s actions had aided him, he was convinced that his own swift moves and abilities were the true reasons for his newfound wealth. He saw Brenna¡¯s involvement as merely speeding up the process. Convincing him had required further negotiations, and she had promised to help him in return.


    Seeing the skepticism on Shepard¡¯s and the others¡¯ faces, Brenna decided against borating further. Instead, she shifted the conversation, sending them a series of messages and documents. ¡°Look¡ªEthan and Thiago just found out that not only did Jacob sell his shares, but so did Atley Harper and Kylo Harper, my uncle.¡±


    The color drained from Shepard¡¯s, Ernst¡¯s, and Dalton¡¯s faces as they scanned the documents.


    Dalton said angrily, ¡°The Harper Group hasn¡¯t even crumbled yet, and they¡¯re tossing their shares at the first whisper? Ridiculous! Once this storm passes, they¡¯re going to regret this move!¡±


    The documents revealed even more troubling news: the shares had been sold to a slew of buyers, flooding the board with new directors, including Denis and even unsavory characters like Isabe.


    Ernst¡¯s face darkened. ¡°Rosie¡¯s crossed a line. She doesn¡¯t have the funds to buy up the Harper Group¡¯s shares herself, so she drags in all these outsiders just to spite us. She¡¯s tarnishing Grandpa¡¯s name! His will explicitly forbade selling shares outside the family. She¡¯s trampling on his legacy!¡±


    Shepard, feeling the weight of devastation, grew dizzy as his blood pressure surged. He reached for his medication but hesitated; he had already hit the limit for the day.


    Brenna reached into her bag and handed him a red bottle of pills. ¡°Dad, this is a form I developed for cardiovascr protection. It¡¯ll help.¡±


    Without hesitation, Shepard took one of the three pills inside¡ªa rare mixture derived from Woodham that Brenna had gotten from the auction. These pills were crafted to prevent and treat cardiovascr diseases, showing remarkable effects on high blood pressure.


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    Just days ago, Brenna had turned down Amy, who had suffered a cerebral hemorrhage and was willing to pay ten million for just one pill. To Brenna, Amy¡¯sck of integrity rendered her unworthy of such a precious remedy.


    Within five minutes, Shepard felt the dizziness lift. He was impressed, recalling whispers of Brenna studying under a renowned doctor. He hadn¡¯t expected her skills to be so advanced, nor that she could create medicine on her own. Still, he assumed the Pierce family¡¯s longstanding tradition of pharmaceutical excellence had yed a role in her expertise.


    The four of them settled into a circle to devise their next steps. At 9:15 a.m., fifteen minutes behind schedule, they finally stepped into the boardroom.


    The oval table was bustling with attendees, filling every seat.


    Brenna¡¯s eyes scanned the room,nding on Isabe, Denis, and Ethan, who offered a discreet wave before texting her that he had secured 1.1% of the Harper Group¡¯s shares.


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 Chapter 619

    ?Chapter 619:


    Rosie upied a prominent position next to her attorney, the esteemed Saul Jones.


    Saul appeared to be in his forties, sporting a receding hairline and a straight posture. He met the gaze of the four Harper family members seated across the table.


    He said, ¡°Hello, I represent Ms. Rosie Harper. We have filed with the Shirie City court, demanding that all shareholders return the shares that rightfully belong to my client.¡±


    Shepard and Ableson, the two people who held the most shares of the Harper Group, took their ces on either side of Ernst. Ernst, though not thergest shareholder,manded the center as the presiding CEO, his posture straight, eyes scanning the room with an icy veneer of authority.


    Twenty-seven new shareholders¡ªall influential figures in Shirie¡ªwatched in rapt silence, lips pressed tight, their faces a canvas of mixed amusement and eager anticipation.


    Could Ernst take control in front of these vipers?


    Ernst remained unshaken. Most of the new shareholders held only the tiniest fractions of ownership, their voting power insignificant.


    The silence was broken by Saul, his tone resolute. ¡°Mr. Harper, as the family representative, it was inappropriate for you to target an orphaned girl. I urge you to instruct your shareholders to return what rightfully belongs to Ms. Harper.¡±


    Ernst scoffed, contempt dripping from his words. ¡°And what evidence do you possess that those shares are hers?¡±


    Saul had no evidence. ¡°By tradition, Mr. Luther Harper¡¯s estate should have been divided equally among his three sons. As the daughter of Carsen Harper, the third son of Luther, Ms. Rosie Harper is entitled to her father¡¯s share.¡±


    Ernst regarded him with disdain, as if Saul werepletely out of touch. ¡°Mr. Jones, you¡¯re mistaken. Carsen did have the right to a share of Luther¡¯s estate alongside my father and uncle. However, he passed away before Luther could distribute his assets, which means Carsen forfeited both the right and the chance to inherit.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s fury ignited. The Harper family had never spoken with such coldness about the matter, and she could hardly believe that her once-gentle brother could deliver such a heartless blow.


    Full cont3nt h3re: g??lnovels.??????


    With a fierce m of her hand on the table, Rosie eximed, ¡°How dare you say that? Just because my dad is gone, I can¡¯t inherit Grandpa¡¯s assets? That¡¯s outrageous! Grandpa promised my dad¡¯s shares would go to me!¡±


    At that moment, Brenna smirked, a glint of satisfaction in her eyes. Across the room, she locked eyes with Ethan, who watched the unfolding drama with amused detachment.


    They had front-row seats to a family drama that could rival any soap opera.


    The rest of the Harper family remained silent, leaving Ernst to face Rosie alone. They believed Ernst was more than capable of dealing with her.


    Ernst¡¯s gaze was frigid, all remnants of affection for Rosie extinguished, reced by steely indifference. Rosie struggled toprehend this shift; she had hoped Ernst still cared for her, that he wouldn¡¯t simply see her as anotherpetitor in the boardroom. But Ernst was unyielding. Anger surged within Rosie, her eyes burning as resentment bubbled to the surface.


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 Chapter 620

    Chapter 620:


    Ernst said sharply, ¡°Uncle Carsen passed before he could inherit anything from Grandpa. Moreover, at that time, Grandpa never outlined how much Carsen would receive. After Grandpa turned sixty-seven, he gradually transferred his shares to his sons and grandchildren, but not to your father. That indicates your father had already been struck from the list of heirs.¡±


    Rosie felt her world tilt. ¡°My father was Grandpa¡¯s son too; he had every right to inherit! All the shares you¡¯re holding came from him! What belonged to my father belongs to me. Give it back to me, now!¡± A murmur rippled through the onlookers.


    Ernst brushed off the whispers. He understood well that none of the Harper family members wanted to relinquish their shares to Rosie. ¡°A dead man can¡¯t inherit,¡± he stated coldly, fixing Rosie with a firm gaze.


    In a discreet corner of the second row, Isabe sat quietly, a smirk of smug satisfaction gracing her face. She remained silent; it wasn¡¯t her time to speak just yet.


    Joy surged within her. Denis had bestowed upon her a meager 0.001% of shares¡ªpaltry, yes, but enough for her.


    She watched the Harper Group shares on her phone, the numbers fluctuating. She was gloating.


    With Brenna barely back at the Harper Group, it was already teetering on the edge of copse. She really was a jinx.


    Even though the Harper Group wouldn¡¯t go bankrupt overnight, the sight of Brenna struggling financially was enough to bring a smile to Isabe¡¯s face.


    Ernst maintained his relentless pressure on Rosie. ¡°No one will give you what they already took. Your quest is futile.¡±


    Overwhelmed, Rosie burst into tears, but Saul remainedposed and professional. He gently guided her to sit down, whispering, ¡°Miss Harper, don¡¯t panic. The more flustered you be, the more pleased they will be. If you lose yourposure, you¡¯ll end up with nothing.¡±


    Rosie wiped her tears and shot daggers at the others. ¡°You¡¯re all ganging up on me, but I won¡¯t let you win. Even if I¡ª


    A???????????? ????????: ga l no v els .co m


    ¡°Even if I can¡¯t reim the shares, I¡¯ll do everything in my power to make you pay for this. Just look at the Harper Group¡¯s stock; it plummeted the moment the market opened. The more you own, the more you lose! If I suffer, I will also make you suffer!¡±


    Saul allowed her to finish her outburst before stepping in. He said to Ernst, ¡°Mr. Harper, I urge you to cooperate and return Ms. Rosie Harper¡¯s shares without dy. We¡¯ve already filed awsuit with the Shirie City Court, and I believe you¡¯ve received the court summons by now. If you refuse to return the shares, we¡¯ll see you in court. We¡¯re not backing down.¡±


    The Harper family shot Rosie disdainful looks, their expressions cold and unwavering in the face of her hollow threats.


    Their true worryy elsewhere: the Harper Group¡¯s stock had been in freefall, plummeting for three consecutive days and erasing tens of billions in market value. Panic had already set in among some, causing them to hastily sell off their shares.


    Now, all eyes shifted expectantly to Shepard and Ernst for solutions. How would they pull the Harper Group out of this nosedive before it crashedpletely?


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    Message from Noah: Have a great week dear readers. God loves you and Noah whishes you all the best. ????(? ?? ? ¨C ? ) ?


    .

 Chapter 621

    ?Chapter 621:


    Rosie, her eyes glistening with unshed tears, remained defiantly in ce, eager to see how they would counter the crisis.


    She rapidly tapped out messages to Isabe and Denis, signaling them to get ready for their n.


    If victory was out of her reach, she would dly pull everyone into the downfall with her.


    Her tactics only served to deepen the Harper family¡¯s animosity toward her.


    Before Rosie could even blink away the sting from Ernst¡¯s scathing rebuke, Lennon interjected sharply, ¡°We didn¡¯t steal those shares. They were transferred to us legally by Grandpa. Why on earth should we just hand them over to you?¡±


    Standing at his side, Ma Harper was a member of a side branch of the family, a mid-level sales manager clutching a modest 0.5% of shares. He shot a sharp, disdainful re at Rosie. He had carved out a cushy role for himself in the sales department, his steady performance and polished reputation earning him quiet respect among his peers.


    Life under the Harper Group¡¯s banner had been nothing short of golden for him; between his hefty sry, generous bonuses, and plump dividends, he raked in about sixty million dors annually¡ªmore than enough to pamper his stunning wife and support his bright, high-achieving children.


    Now, Rosie was adamant about reiming what she insisted were her rightful shares. If he were forced to relinquish his shares, his annual earnings would plummet to barely a million dors. The very thought was untenable for him.


    His quality of life would take a nosedive.


    ¡°That¡¯s exactly my point. Every share we hold was acquired through legitimate means. How could you prove that they belong to you?¡± Malcolm said, his voiceced with defiance.


    Seated beside Malcolm was an elderly man with thinning, silver-streaked hair¡ªthe youngest of Luther¡¯s brothers, now well into his seventies but still carrying himself with surprising vigor that defied his age. The moment he caught wind that Luther had passed and left behind a bundle of shares, he immediately felt entitled to a cut.


    Even if it was merely a sliver of a percent, with the Harper family¡¯s staggering wealth, it would still trante into tens of millions in yearly dividends¡ªmore than enough to cushion his entire family in luxury. With a disdainful scoff, he pinned Rosie with a piercing look and said, ¡°Carsen has been gone for over two decades. The moment he passed, he forfeited any rights to inherit. He died before Luther; do you honestly believe he had any im to Luther¡¯s assets? What do you expect? That he would miraculously return from the grave to stake his im?¡±


    Full updat3z h3r3: g??lno¦Íels.??????


    The room exploded into a cacophony of derisiveughter.


    This only made Rosie angrier.


    She leaped to her feet, her voice quivering with rage as she jabbed a finger at the people who had just spoken. ¡°You heartless thieves! Where¡¯s your conscience? Is there no justice left in this world anymore? Do you people even know what decency means?¡±


    Malcolm shot back, his voice dripping with sarcasm, ¡°We are thieves? Oh, please. Grandpa handed over those shares to us fair and square. What we own is perfectly legal. You really think you can just march in here, toss around a few usations, and we¡¯ll hand everything to you? Keep dreaming.¡±


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 Chapter 622

    ?Chapter 622:


    The truth hit Rosie like a p¡ªshe had no evidence, nothing but Luther¡¯s verbal assurances. Now that he was gone, the painful realization dawned on her: she had been yed by Luther. Enraged and heartbroken by the betrayal, she decided to im what she believed was rightfully hers.


    Tears cascaded down her cheeks as she wept openly before the assembly, her sobs a silent plea for the outsiders to witness how the Harper family was ruthlessly targeting her.


    She had given Isabe a secret mission: to discreetly record everything. Even if her attempt failed, the harsh reality of the Harper family¡¯s merciless tactics would be exposed to the world.


    Around her, mockingughter reverberated. This only fueled her determination to bring down the Harper Group.


    Shepard, Ernst, and Brenna exchanged knowing looks. They were keenly aware that despite the undercurrent of dissent, a significant majority still staunchly backed the Harper Group. Those wishing for its copse were a stark minority.


    As the room finally settled into a tense silence, Ernst took control of the meeting again. ¡°We¡¯re all shareholders here,¡± he began, his voice steady andmanding. ¡°None of us wants to see the Harper Group¡¯s stock continue to plummet. How can we reverse this trend? Any thoughts?¡±


    The room erupted into a cacophony of voices, each person throwing in their two cents, while Rosie, tears streaming down her face, was tantly ignored.


    It was only after the tears had dried on her cheeks that Rosie texted Isabe, urging her to execute their n swiftly.


    However, faced with the imposing presence of the affluent attendees, Isabe hesitated.


    Her hands, slick with sweat, clutched her phone tightly as she checked thetest stock updates. To her disbelief, the Harper Group¡¯s shares were climbing.


    She was dumbfounded. Wasn¡¯t Rosie supposed to have unleashed a wave of bad press to throw the investors into chaos? So why, in the world, was the stock price soaring instead of crashing?


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    Seething with frustration at Isabe¡¯s uselessness during such a critical moment, Rosie decided to take matters into her own hands. She stepped forward and eximed, ¡°Sweet words won¡¯t save the Harper Group! Two straight days of limit-down freefalls, tens of billions wiped out like smoke! Sell your shares now if you don¡¯t want to walk away penniless!¡±


    As expected, a ripple of fear swept through the gathering. The older shareholders, still fumbling with their outdated phones, didn¡¯t know how to check the stock prices. They believed Rosie.


    The room was filled with family¡ªfathers and sons, siblings gathered close. The elders hovered over the younger ones, squinting at stock charts they barely understood, watching jagged lines spike and dip.


    Those who understood the graphs wore somber faces, though a faint glimmer of optimism remained; today¡¯s fluctuations were a slight improvement over yesterday¡¯s brutal freefall.


    Rosie stood with her arms crossed, her smug gaze sweeping the room. The fear etched on every face fueled her confidence.


    At the market¡¯s opening, the Harper Group¡¯s stocks had nosedived, wiping out billions in moments. Who wouldn¡¯t be rattled?


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 Chapter 623

    ?Chapter 623:


    She was convinced that she could make all the shareholders panic enough to sell their shares.


    She had already carefully stoked this panic for two days, pushing shareholders like Jacob to sell off their shares at bargain prices.


    Now, she sneered at Shepard and Ernst, the supposed leaders. Even ten billion couldn¡¯t save the Harper Group. Bankruptcy by week¡¯s end seemed possible.


    ¡°Facing this disaster,¡± Rosie said, raising an eyebrow at Ernst, ¡°how do you n to save the Harper Group? Or are you just going to sell it off?¡±


    Ernst¡¯s face reddened with fury and betrayal. ¡°After everything the Harper family did for you, this is your repayment? Our care for you over the years meant nothing?¡±


    Dalton, less restrained, mmed his fist on the table. ¡°She has lost it! If she can¡¯t have it, she¡¯ll torch everything. She¡¯s a twisted lunatic, reveling in our struggle.¡±


    Their outrage only lifted Rosie¡¯s spirits. The sting of earlier humiliations faded; now, she silently hoped the stocks would keep plummeting, craving the moment shareholders would break. And if no one bought the shares, maybe some shareholders would be pushed to the edge. That would be great for her.


    ¡°Admit it¡ªyou¡¯re out of solutions,¡± Rosie taunted. ¡°If you had given me back my shares, you wouldn¡¯t be in this mess now.¡±


    Dalton erupted in anger, saying, ¡°Was it you spreading those lies that undermined the Harper Group?¡±


    The Harper family in the room turned on Rosie, their res sharp.


    An elder hissed, ¡°How dare you do something like that? Who the hell do you think you are? These are our shares! We will never hand them over! We would rather lose everything than give it all to you!¡±


    Another elder trembled with rage. ¡°Do you even understand our losses? No dividends this year¡ªwe¡¯ll even be digging into our own pockets to make up for the losses!¡±


    When Rosie brushed them off, Dalton stepped closer, shaking with anger. ¡°Answer me! Was it you who did that? Our PR team hasn¡¯t slept in three days fighting this. Does ruining the Harper Group make you happy?¡±


    ???????????? ???????? ????: g??????????¦Í???????.???????


    Rosie dropped her pretense, her venom bared. ¡°Yes. If I can¡¯t win, I will bring you all down with me!¡±


    She smirked, savoring their desperation. They were like this because they couldn¡¯t save the Harper Group.


    She was happy to see it.


    A sudden thought made her turn to Brenna, her toneced with scorn. ¡°Oh, Brenna, with all your connections, why don¡¯t you save the Harper Group? What? You can¡¯t do anything to help now?¡±


    A mockingugh spilled out as she pictured the Harpers begging on the streets after bankruptcy. Especially Brenna¡ªshe would be stripped of her privilege as the daughter of the Harper family; Ethan would surely abandon her.


    Rosie admitted, ¡°I spread every rumor about the Harper Group¡¯s copse. Your PR teams kept scrubbing my posts, but I sted them everywhere. Now, the inte is flooded with news of the Harper Group¡¯s downfall. No one will believe your exnation anymore!¡±


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 Chapter 624

    ?Chapter 624:


    She was thoroughly pleased with her handiwork. ¡°It¡¯s over. Face your defeat.¡±


    Brenna, cool as ice, waited for Rosie to stop talking before striking.


    ¡°Maybe you should check the stock market first.¡±


    Rosie scoffed, ¡°Your stock price is plummeting, obviously.¡±


    She leisurely pulled out her phone and checked the stock market. To her shock, the Harper Group¡¯s stock price was rising.


    ¡°This is impossible!¡± Her voice broke. ¡°Saving the Harper Group would take at least thirty billion in liquid capital. Even Ethan couldn¡¯t pull that off.¡±


    Her eyes darted to Ethan, who had stayed quiet until now. He adjusted his cuffs, his demeanor calm. ¡°I indeed helped a little. Ernst and I are old friends. And Brenna and I are together. Of course, I wouldn¡¯t just stand by and do nothing.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s heart twisted into a knot of bitterness. Once upon a time, she had revolved around Ethan like a faithful satellite clinging to its orbit, yet he hadn¡¯t spared her even a flicker of attention. Now, here he was, flinging tens of billions at another woman without hesitation.


    How could she possibly stomach this?


    Ethan was even staring at her with cold indifference, openly challenging her without holding back. Her throat tightened, and her confidence faltered.


    Still, she tried hard topose herself when her eyes met Ethan¡¯s cold, almost mocking stare.


    ¡°So what?¡± she scoffed. ¡°Don¡¯t think your few billion can magically bring the Harper Group back to life. Keep dreaming! This rebound won¡¯tst!¡±


    Rosie was utterly convinced of that. As a seasoned finance graduate, she understood better than anyone the merciless grip external forces could have on stock prices.


    Even if Ethan had thrown cash at the issue now, she could always find another way to drag the shares back down.


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    There was absolutely no way he had hundreds of billions in spare capital sitting around. Even though he was the richest man in the world, he wouldn¡¯t have that.


    Rosie eased back into her seat, casting a bold, challenging nce at the gathered shareholders, then spoke her mind without filter. ¡°Here is the deal. Give me back my shares, and maybe I¡¯ll step aside. If not, no one will walk out of this unscathed.¡±


    It was only then that Brenna broke her silence, her voice calm. ¡°Feeling that confident, are you? Do you really think a handful of baseless rumors is enough to bring down the Harper Group? Do you think people are fools, or are you just overestimating your own brilliance?¡± She gave Rosie a faint, cutting smirk and continued, ¡°Judging by your long history of disastrous choices, I would say you are not very smart.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s unshakable calm gnawed at Rosie. Deep down, she knew people weren¡¯t foolish. Given a few days, they would realize that an empire like the Harper Group wouldn¡¯t topple overnight. Her fabricated rumors wouldn¡¯t hold.


    Rosie said, ¡°I can bring down the Harper Group. Don¡¯t think you are so capable, Brenna. Let¡¯s see how you can w the Harper Group out of this mess.¡±


    Seeing no point in wasting more breath, she flung her bag over her shoulder and stood up. ¡°You have three days to hand over what¡¯s mine. After that, don¡¯t me me for what will happen next.¡±


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 Chapter 625

    ?Chapter 625:


    As soon as Rosie left, the boardroom exploded into a flurry of murmurs. Eyes turned to Ethan and Ernst, desperate for answers on how they nned to save the Harper Group. No one seemed to take Rosie¡¯s threat seriously.


    Once the chatter simmered down, Ernst calmly addressed the room, saying, ¡°Rx, everyone. These rumors have no substance. Our PR team is already handling damage control, and we will hold a press conference shortly. The lies will crumble on their own, and the Harper Group¡¯s stocks will bounce back. Hold tight to your shares. Don¡¯t let fear push you into panic-selling.¡±


    Although a trace of doubt still hung in the air, the tension in the room noticeably eased. Malcolm broke the silence. ¡°Ernst, please give us some details. What¡¯s your n to save the Harper Group?¡±


    Ernst looked at his phone and saw a message from Ethan confirming that the Mitchell Group had just pumped twenty billion into stabilizing the Harper Group¡¯s stocks.


    A spark of renewed confidence flickered across Ernst¡¯s features. ¡°Mr. Mitchell and I go way back. With his help, the Harper Group will surely pull through.¡±


    He carefully bit back any mention of Brenna¡¯s mysterious supporter. Since she insisted on keeping it a secret, he had no choice but to disclose nothing about it.


    To the shareholders, Ethan¡¯s involvement was a golden guarantee. After all, as the richest man on the, Ethan could easily toss around billions to save the Harper Group.


    Grateful nces shot in Ethan¡¯s direction, though a few eyes gleamed with ns of offloading their shares directly to him.


    The meeting dragged on well past noon. Shepard and Ernst made their way out to prepare for the press conference after the meeting, leaving Brenna and Dalton to handle everything else.


    At lunch, the Harper family invited Ethan to join them, but he politely declined and offered to treat Brenna to a meal alone.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you ask me for help? Why turn to someone else?¡± Ethan asked, clearly upset as he and Brenna sat in the elegant restaurant, his expression tinged with hurt.


    Brenna hesitated. She had considered turning to him first, but the thought of stretching his liquidity thin or disrupting his ongoing projects made her reconsider.


    More than that, she didn¡¯t want to owe him any more favors. She still hadn¡¯t properly thanked him for saving her in Plieca.


    Brenna struggled to find the right words. After a long, heavy pause, she finally said, ¡°I didn¡¯t want to depend on you all the time. It makes me look¡­ ipetent.¡±


    Ethan looked at her, then let out a soft, resigned sigh. ¡°If not me, then you would just end up owing someone else. You still owe someone a favor. Favors alwayse with a price. I would rather you trouble me than anyone else. Now tell me¡ªwho helped you? I will repay them for you.¡±


    Brenna shook her head firmly. ¡°There is no need for that. I have already promised them something in return.¡±


    In a private dining room of a luxury restaurant, Rosie shot daggers across the table at the man and woman before her, her patience frayed to a thread. ¡°You¡¯re absolutely useless! Couldn¡¯t even find your voice when it mattered. What good are you?¡±


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 Chapter 626

    ?Chapter 626:


    Isabe huffed, her eyes sparking with defiance. ¡°I¡¯ve never had to speak before a crowd like that! Do you have to be so harsh to me? You¡¯ve berated me for hours¡ªenough already!¡±


    She clung tightly to Denis¡¯s arm, who cleared his throat like a seasoned diplomat and said, ¡°Rosie, take it down a notch. Isabe was trying to help, but with the Harper Group¡¯s stocks already bouncing back, she didn¡¯t want to risk looking like a fool.¡±


    He gave Isabe¡¯s hand a reassuring pat. ¡°Next time, she¡¯ll step up.¡±


    Rosie let out a sharp snort. ¡°Denis, I don¡¯t understand what you see in her. She is utterly useless.¡±


    Isabe gave a soft hum, leaning into Denis like a cat curling up in a sunbeam. The stocks she held? A gift from Denis. Ever since Jade¡¯s death, Denis had taken the reins of the Ward family¡¯s ventures in Vand. With Edward gone too, there was no one left to check his books, so Denis funneled all the profits straight into his own pockets.


    Flush with cash, he had tossed Isabe some stocks as a little thank-you for keeping himpanytely. More than that, he swore she was his lucky charm; business had been smooth as silk since she had been by his side. He wanted to spoil her.


    As for the small benefits of working with Rosie, he no longer cared about that. Especially since Rosie seemed to be on a losing streaktely, he figured it was best to keep his distance from her.


    ¡°Watch your mouth,¡± he snapped. ¡°Isabe¡¯s not your punching bag.¡± He slung an arm around Isabe¡¯s shoulders and guided her out. ¡°Let¡¯s leave.¡±


    Rosie called after him, ¡°What about those Harper Group shares? You don¡¯t want to buy them anymore?¡±


    Denis didn¡¯t even nce back. ¡°If I want them, I¡¯ll find sellers myself. I don¡¯t need you to help me.¡±


    Rosie, fuming, flipped the table with a crash. Everyone was brushing her off like she was nothing.


    Inside the room next door, five Harper men were hunched over their phones, eyes locked on the stock market¡¯s pulse. The eldest was Luther¡¯s cousin. The others were his sons and nephews.


    The four younger men were glued to their screens, tracking every twitch of the Harper Group¡¯s stock price.


    ¡°It¡¯s not tanking anymore. Maybe we shouldn¡¯t sell our shares.¡±


    ¡°And risk losing even more? We should sell now before the price dips again!¡±


    Just then, Rosie entered the room, holding up two fingers. ¡°My final offer.¡±


    The younger Harpers exchanged looks. With the stocks creeping up, they were holding better cards now. They could afford to wait.


    Aldin Harper shed a cocky smirk. ¡°Ten times that, and we¡¯ll talk.¡±


    Juan Harper, cool as ice, understood the situation and said to Rosie, ¡°Stock¡¯s bouncing back. Yesterday¡¯s price is not gonna cut it.¡±


    Rosie shrugged. ¡°Take it or leave it. You can watch your shares turn to pocket lint.¡±


    She spun to leave, but the younger Harpers started to sweat. Their elder spoke up, his voice calm. ¡°Let her leave. With everyone dumping shares, we¡¯ll find buyers who¡¯ll pay better.¡± His eyes glinted with a sly edge. ¡°Bet Mr. Mitchell would cough up triple her offer.¡±


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 Chapter 627

    ?Chapter 627:


    That afternoon, Ethan went back into the office, where his secretary, Rex Dury, was waiting with big news. As deputy director of the secretariat, Rex ranked just below Neville and usually managed the department rather than tagging along on Ethan¡¯s business trips.


    Rex kept his distance, afraid Ethan would get angry at him for the news he was about to deliver.


    He said, ¡°Mr. Mitchell, your mother sent a woman over this morning. She pushed hard to get her hired in the secretarial department to ¡®look after¡¯ you.¡±


    Ethan froze for a moment, his face darkening. He knew exactly who the girl was. Fury bubbled under the surface. ¡°If she didn¡¯t get into thepany through interviews, she¡¯s got no business here. Send her packing.¡±


    He sat down, muttering under his breath, ¡°Unbelievable. Now she¡¯s sticking her nose in mypany?¡±


    Rex hesitated before speaking. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, the girl actually got into thepany through interviews. It¡¯s just that your mother pressured us to make her your new secretary.¡±


    ¡°Crafty move,¡± Ethan growled, his jaw clenched tight. ¡°Then put her back where she belongs. I don¡¯t want her anywhere near me.¡±


    Rex massaged his temples, looking like he was in a dilemma. ¡°Her name¡¯s Minna Davies. She applied for a sales position.¡±


    ¡°Then send her to the sales department,¡± Ethan snapped. ¡°Let her start from the bottom and w her way up like everybody else. I don¡¯t want her setting foot in my office.¡±


    He retrieved his phone, itching to confront his mother, but he was so angry that he didn¡¯t even want to speak to her.


    ¡°Got it, Mr. Mitchell. I¡¯ll handle it pronto,¡± Rex said.


    Rex shot a cautious nce at Ethan, whose expression was cold¡ªicier than his usual distant demeanor¡ªa clear sign he was seething over the decision to let Minna join the secretarial department without his explicit approval.


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    Ethan typically maintained a cool reserve, steering clear of outright animosity. Yet today, an almost palpable wrath emanated from him.


    What piqued Rex¡¯s curiosity was Elsa¡¯s unusual involvement. It was rare to see her stride into the corporate arena, ushering Minna into the fold and boldly inserting herself into hiring matters.


    This marked Elsa¡¯s first visit to thepany.


    Rex found himself musing over the enigma that was Minna. What extraordinary qualities did she have thatpelled Elsa to escort her personally? Moreover, what about Minna elicited such a visceral aversion from Ethan?


    Rex felt like he had identally unearthed some tantalizing gossip.


    With a subtle shake of his head to dismiss his burgeoning curiosity, Rex gently shut Ethan¡¯s office door behind him and strode towards the bustling secretarial department. Minna had already imed the prime desk by the entrance, relegating the former upant to a cramped stic stool wedged between colleagues.


    The office was a hive of activity, buzzing with the escted workload Ethan had imposed over thest couple of days. This hinted at yet another evening marred by overtime.


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 Chapter 628

    ?Chapter 628:


    Approaching the doorway, Rex tapped lightly on the frame and called out in a measured tone, ¡°Minna.¡±


    Minna wasn¡¯t the kind of woman who turned heads. She wasn¡¯t unattractive, but next to the impably dressed women bustling around the office, she didn¡¯t stand out.


    Her smile was tinged with courtesy as she sat isted, thumbing through her phone since the early hours of the morning. Assigned no specific tasks, Minna had attempted to spark some small talk, but her efforts were in vain before the busy colleagues. It was only during a brief respite at lunch that a few coworkers engaged in conversation with her, learning that she used to be in the military¡¯s performance troupe.


    A whisper of curiosity began to weave through the department, people pondering if Minna could be Ethan¡¯s cousin. Yet, Minna held the true narrative close to her chest, wary that unveiling she was actually Ethan¡¯s date, meticulously selected by Elsa, could jeopardize her position here.


    She didn¡¯t want to be reckless.


    When Rex finally walked over, signaling the start of some actual work, Minna¡¯s demeanor shifted. Her eyes sparkled with eagerness as she replied, ¡°Mr. Dury, I¡¯m ready for any task you have. Although my background is in dance, I adapt swiftly and am eager to learn the ropes of office work.¡±


    She truly believed in herself. As a former star dancer, she had honed her craft to perfection; the intricacies of office tasks seemed a lesser challenge byparison.


    She had left the performance troupe to pursue Ethan. Deep down, she was convinced that Ethan, too, woulde to see her value and fall for her.


    Rex maintained hisposure, exuding an air of professionalism as he faced Minna. After all, she had been personally rmended by Ethan¡¯s mother. Any negative report from Minna could easily jeopardize his job, one that gave him a handsome six-figure sry annually.


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell¡¯s directive was quite clear. You¡¯re to join the department for which you initially applied. The secretarial department is not looking for new hires at this time,¡± he said, his tone apologetic.


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    Minna¡¯s polite smile froze awkwardly on her lips. She instinctively reached out and clutched the sleeve of Rex¡¯s suit jacket. ¡°Mr. Dury, did you¡­ Did you mention to Mr. Mitchell that it was Elsa who brought me here?¡±


    She couldn¡¯t believe Ethan would deny his own mother such a small favor.


    A whirlpool of unease stirred inside her. She had originally applied for a spot in the sales department, but she knew it wasn¡¯t easy to be a salesperson.


    There was a harsh three-month probation period, and if she failed to meet the business targets, she would have to leave.


    By contrast, the secretarial department was a much safer harbor. As long as she kept her head down and worked hard, she could keep her job without too much risk.


    She stared anxiously at Rex, waiting for him to change his mind.


    Rex, however, remained resolute, his voice unwavering. ¡°Yes, I¡¯ve already discussed your situation with Mr. Mitchell. His instructions were explicit¡ªyou are to report to the sales department.¡±


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 Chapter 629

    ?Chapter 629:


    Edging closer to Rex, Minna cast a nce at the other secretaries who, though outwardly immersed in their work, were eavesdropping.


    In a hushed, urgent tone, she whispered, ¡°I¡¯m Mr. Mitchell¡¯s date. His mother introduced us. I might just be the future Mrs. Mitchell. Please, take me to meet Mr. Mitchell; I¡¯m certain I can persuade him to change his mind.¡±


    Rex paused, his eyes widening as he processed her words. Instinctively, he assessed Minna,paring her to Brenna. Minna¡¯s lithe dancer¡¯s physique was undeniable, but in terms of looks, she was far less striking.


    And professionally? Rex believed she couldn¡¯tpare to Brenna, either, though that was hardly the point. The pointy in Ethan¡¯s recent, very public deration of affection for Brenna. Everyone knew about Ethan¡¯s rtionship with Brenna, yet now, Minna boldly said she would be Ethan¡¯s future wife.


    Rex felt cornered.


    He knew Ethan was no fool; the man was surely aware of Minna¡¯s identity and intentions. And still, Ethan had directed her towards the sales department, a clear sign he had no interest in fulfilling Elsa¡¯s matchmaking aspirations.


    Rex wrestled with his thoughts. Could leading Minna to see Ethan now jeopardize his own position?


    With a firm resolution, he responded, ¡°I¡¯m sorry. Mr. Mitchell has explicitly instructed that you are to be assigned to the sales department.¡±


    Rex had learned something crucial from his years of working under Ethan. Once Ethan made his decision, no one could change his mind.


    Minna¡¯s expression turned serious, her voice taking on a chilling firmness. ¡°Did you not hear what I just told you? Take me to him. Now.¡±


    Minna was visibly displeased with Rex¡¯s frosty, all-business attitude. He wasn¡¯t treating her like the soon-to-be Mrs. Mitchell at all. She believed she needed to remind him of that.


    She squared her shoulders and met Rex¡¯s gaze head-on, silently dering that she wasn¡¯t leaving unless he took her to see Ethan. Rex hesitated. He had no desire to get caught up in Ethan¡¯s personal matters or family drama. Yet here he was, sucked into the mess. Right now, it felt like he had two choices: either upset Ethan or risk offending Minna and Ethan¡¯s mother.


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    After carefully weighing his options, he decided it was better to risk offending Minna.


    ¡°Apologies, but I can¡¯t take you to see Mr. Mitchell. Please head to the sales department immediately. If you fail to report within forty-eight hours, we will take it as your formal decision to abandon the position,¡± Rex said firmly, then walked away to handle other tasks.


    Minna stood there, unwilling to back down. After thinking for about thirty seconds, she spun around and marched straight to Ethan¡¯s office. Without so much as a knock, she burst through the door.


    Inside, Ethan was on the phone with Elsa, his voice sharp with barely contained fury. ¡°Mom, I¡¯m an adult now. Could you stop meddling in my life? Marriage is a lifelongmitment. Who I choose to be with is my decision, not yours. You have no right to dictate who I marry.¡±


    He had just finished venting when he saw Minna barging into his office. He didn¡¯t even bother to hang up the phone before shouting, his toneced with authority, ¡°Who let you in? Get out! Neville! Rex! Come here and get her out!¡±


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 Chapter 630

    ?Chapter 630:


    Minna paid no mind to his shouting and marched straight up to his desk, indignation zing in her eyes. ¡°Your mother sent me here! How can you treat me like this?¡±


    To her, Ethan wasn¡¯t the powerful CEO of a corporation. He was simply her future boyfriend.


    Lifting her chin, she squared her shoulders and dered, ¡°You think I¡¯m not good enough for the secretary department? Sure, maybe the others have fancy degrees from top universities, and my academic background doesn¡¯t shine the same way. But when ites to actual work, I¡¯m second to none! I know I have what it takes to excel at this job.¡±


    Meanwhile, on the other end of the line, Elsa heard every word loud and clear. Realizing there was no hope of convincing Ethan over the phone, she ended the call and drove straight to his office.


    Elsa was resolved to see Minna stay in the secretarial department.


    Ethan¡¯s expression grew colder by the second, his dislike for Minna hardening into something almost tangible. He said coldly, ¡°If you want a spot in the secretarial department, then apply for the job like everyone else. If you pass the interview, you can stay. Otherwise, you don¡¯t have any right to be here. Now, get the hell out of my office.¡±


    Just then, Rex and Neville burst in, both looking like they were dealing with a full-blown crisis. Without wasting a second, they each grabbed Minna and began trying to haul her out.


    Rex was fuming. He dropped his voice to a low growl and scolded sharply, ¡°Who permitted you to waltz in here? Do you really think you can just barge into the CEO¡¯s office without permission?¡±


    The moment they dragged her outside, Minna jerked herself free with a violent tug and snapped, ¡°Keep your hands off me!¡±


    Rex felt like he had justnded himself in serious trouble and knew he was bound to get an earful from Ethanter for this.


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    Seething with frustration, he directed all his anger at Minna. ¡°At the Mitchell Group, promotions are earned through ability, not connections. You should know your ce. Unless Mr. Mitchell personally acknowledges you, you will be treated like any other employee. Now, get yourself out of the secretarial department immediately.¡±


    Minna let out a frosty snort and stormed off. As she walked away, she called Elsa in a fury, telling her what had just happened.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ming over right now. If Ethan dares refuse you a spot in the secretarial department, I¡¯ll cause a scene he will never forget!¡± Elsa said.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Minna replied, finally feeling a bit better.


    Inside the CEO¡¯s office, Ethan was still poring over the Harper Group¡¯s stock reports while simultaneously holding a video call with Ernst.


    Neville stood silently off to the side, quietly taking everything in.


    When the call finally ended, Ethan nced at Neville and said, ¡°Tell the finance department to prepare an additional twenty billion to help the Harper Group.¡±


    Neville didn¡¯t leave right away to carry out the order. Instead, he cleared his throat and said, ¡°Several Harper Group shareholders looking to sell their stakes have just arrived. Would you like to meet with them?¡±


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 Chapter 631

    ?Chapter 631:


    After a brief moment of thought, Ethan replied coolly, ¡°No. Let Milton handle it. Whatever shares they are offering, we will buy them all.¡±


    Just then, Rex stepped into the office carrying a set of documents in hand. He was expecting to be scolded over Minna¡¯s earlier intrusion. He said, ¡°Mr. Mitchell, these documents are ready for your signature.¡±


    Ethan took the documents, gave them a quick once-over, signed them without saying a word, and didn¡¯t bring up Minna at all. In his view, while Rex carried a bit of the me, the matter was something that had been beyond his control.


    Rex secretly breathed a sigh of relief.


    Suddenly, a voice Ethan knew all too well echoed from the door. ¡°Ethan.¡±


    Ethan nced up from his papers and saw Elsa striding in, pulling Minna along with her.


    A flicker of irritation shed in Ethan¡¯s eyes. He was far from pleased with Elsa¡¯s meddling, but she was his mother. He couldn¡¯t throw her out, no matter how much he wanted to. Swallowing his frustration, he rose from his seat and said, ¡°Mom, what brings you here?¡±


    Elsa responded with a sharp snort and made a beeline for the sofa. She sat down and said, her voice full of usation, ¡°Why on earth won¡¯t you let Minna join the secretarial department?¡±


    Observing from the side, Rex felt a surge of sympathy for Ethan and an increasing sense of dislike toward Minna. Since she couldn¡¯t get her way, she had shamelessly dragged Elsa into the matter.


    Silently, Rex left the office. He then instructed one of the secretaries to bring coffee for Elsa.


    Elsa¡¯s anger only deepened when she caught the frustration flickering across Ethan¡¯s face. She no longer cared how many secretaries might be eavesdropping outside the office door.


    She said, ¡°You¡¯ve been so stubborn since you were a child. Why do you think I¡¯m doing this? It¡¯s for your own good! Brenna¡¯s too headstrong. She¡¯s not right for you. You¡¯re sessful now. You don¡¯t need a woman chasing her own ambitions. You need someone who¡¯ll stay home, support you, and take care of you and your children. Not someone like Brenna, who only cares about her career. Do you understand?¡±


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    Ethan clenched his fists at his sides, forcing down the anger boiling inside him. Then, he said, ¡°Dad¡¯s a Commander, isn¡¯t he? Did he ever force you to stay home? Didn¡¯t he always stand by you, no matter what you wanted to do?¡±


    Ethan had had enough of Elsa¡¯s meddling and raised his voice at her. ¡°You¡¯re not doing this for me. You¡¯re doing this for yourself!¡± He then pointed at Minna, his tone unyielding. ¡°Unless she joins the secretarial department through interviews, I will never let her work here.¡± He believed there was no point wasting any more breath on Elsa. He knew her too well. Without missing a beat, he added, ¡°Since she was hired by the sales department, let her report there.¡±


    Elsa ignored his stance and stood her ground. ¡°I¡¯ll ask you onest time. Will you agree to this or not?¡±


    ¡°No!¡± Ethan answered without a second thought.


    Furious, Elsa shot to her feet and jabbed a finger at him. ¡°Fine! If you won¡¯t agree, then I¡¯m not leaving! I¡¯ll camp out in your office if I have to! I¡¯ll live here until you change your mind!¡±


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 Chapter 632

    ?Chapter 632:


    She plopped herself back onto the sofa and grabbed Minna¡¯s hand. ¡°I really don¡¯t get it. Minna¡¯s a college graduate. She¡¯s pretty, gentle, and good-natured. How is she not good enough for you? I bet Brenna has been badmouthing her to you!¡±


    She snorted and continued, ¡°Tell Brenna toe here. I¡¯ll say it to her face. I will never ept her as my daughter-inw! She needs to stay away from you!¡±


    Brenna, who had just arrived at the door, caught every word. A small crowd of secretaries had gathered behind her, whispering and peeking into the office with barely concealed curiosity.


    She cleared her throat lightly and knocked on the open door. ¡°Is this a bad time?¡±


    Ethan turned, caught off guard at the sight of her. The irritation that had darkened his features melted away at once. He walked over and said apologetically, ¡°You got here faster than I expected.¡±


    He had instructed Milton Green, the vice president, to meet the Harper Group¡¯s shareholders about acquiring their shares. He had nned to transfer the shares he obtained directly into Brenna¡¯s name and discuss the matter with her. Thus, he had asked her toe over. He hadn¡¯t expected that Elsa would show up first, or that Brenna would overhear everything.


    Elsa turned toward Brenna with a sharp, disdainful nce and arrogantly said, ¡°Just in time. I have something to say to you.¡±


    Standing calmly beside Ethan, Brenna nodded and greeted Elsa out of respect. Then she said, ¡°Of course. If you have something to say, please go ahead.¡±


    Elsa snorted coldly and said, ¡°Drop the act. I know you hate me for opposing your rtionship with Ethan. Go ahead. Vent your anger on me all you want.¡±


    She was provoking Brenna on purpose. If Brenna didsh out at her, she believed Ethan might finally agree to break up with Brenna. But Brenna¡¯s expression remained cool and detached. ¡°I have no intention of doing anything like that.¡±


    Out of the corner of her eye, Elsa caught sight of the secretaries lingering by the doorway, eavesdropping. Suddenly, an idea came to mind. She abruptly stood up, dragged Minna up with her, and faced the crowd. ¡°Since you¡¯re all here, let me make something perfectly clear. Minna is my chosen daughter-inw. As for Brenna, she¡¯s nothing but a mistress!¡±


    Exasperated, Ethan pinched the bridge of his nose. To avoid the gossip from spiraling further, he straightened up and spoke with a voice that everyone could hear. ¡°That¡¯s nonsense. I¡¯m not even married. Brenna is my girlfriend. Minna means absolutely nothing to me.¡±


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    His gaze swept over the group of secretaries like a sharp de. They gasped in unison, then quickly left the scene.


    They were caught gossiping by the CEO himself. They knew they were in serious trouble!


    Ethan could hardly believe Elsa would stoop so low and resort to cheap tricks just to force him into epting Minna.


    ¡°The secretaries aren¡¯t idiots, Mom,¡± Ethan said coldly. ¡°They¡¯re all top university graduates. Tricks like that won¡¯t work. If you have nothing else to say, you should leave. I have work to do.¡±


    But Elsa showed no sign of concern over the secretaries fleeing the scene. In her mind, she had already won. She believed that after today, the wholepany would know about Minna¡¯s special status. People would start currying favor with her.


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 Chapter 633

    ?Chapter 633:


    ¡°You make Minna your secretary, and I¡¯ll leave.¡± Elsa settled back onto the sofa triumphantly, thinking she had already won.


    ¡°Not a chance,¡± Ethan said without the slightest hesitation.


    Across the room, Brenna took a seat in front of Ethan¡¯s desk. She crossed her legs and leaned back with an amused expression, watching the scene unfold.


    Even Elsa, in her stubbornness, had to grudgingly admire Brenna¡¯s mental fortitude. Most women would have panicked if their future mother-inw barged in with another woman in tow. But Brenna remained perfectlyposed.


    Unfortunately for Brenna, Elsa didn¡¯t like someone like her.


    Just then, Elsa clutched her head dramatically and let out a pitiful cry. ¡°Oh dear! I¡¯m dizzy! I feel like the world¡¯s spinning!¡±


    With a theatrical groan, she copsed onto the sofa. Her face even contorted in exaggerated agony, as if she were suffering a stroke.


    Everyone looked shaken, but none more so than Ethan. His face turned pale as guilt crashed into him like a wave. He hurried over and dropped to his knees beside the sofa. ¡°Mom! Mom!¡±


    Even Minna began to panic. ¡°See what you¡¯ve done? Would it have killed you to just let me work here? Why couldn¡¯t you just listen to your mom?¡±


    Both of them pulled out their phones at the same time and prepared to call an ambnce.


    Brenna, who had remained silent until now, finally stepped forward and studied Elsa¡¯s face. She was a doctor and could see that Elsa was actually fine.


    She said, ¡°Wait. Don¡¯t call an ambnce yet. Let me examine her first.¡±


    ¡°Right.¡± Ethan snapped out of his panic. He almost forgot that Brenna had medical training. She wasn¡¯t just knowledgeable; she was skilled. With this thought, he quickly stepped aside to make room for her.


    Elsa kept moaning in pain from the couch, one hand pressed dramatically to her head. She suddenly remembered something. Brenna had once treated Ethan¡¯s grandfather and saved his life. But she had already started putting on an act of pain, and there was no turning back now.


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    Determined to carry it through, she wailed louder.


    Brenna calmly took a seat at the coffee table and reached out to check on Elsa. Afraid of being found faking illness, Elsa avoided her touch and eximed, ¡°She¡¯s trying to kill me! I won¡¯t let her touch me! Make her leave, Ethan! Do you want me dead? Is that it?¡±


    As Elsa refused to cooperate, Brenna had no choice but to give up. She straightened and looked over at Ethan. ¡°Call the ambnce. But honestly, I think she is fine.¡±


    That remark only infuriated Elsa further. Her cries grew louder, and her voice shook with exaggerated emotion. Neither Ethan nor Minna understood medicine, so panic started to creep in.


    Worried that his mother might actually be sick, Ethan grabbed his phone and dialed for an ambnce.


    Just as Ethan finished dialing, Elsa suddenly seemed much better. She had never intended to go to the hospital. This was all just to pressure Ethan intopliance.


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 Chapter 634

    ?Chapter 634:


    She sat up straighter and said to Ethan, ¡°There¡¯s no need for an ambnce anymore. I feel much better. All you have to do is let Minna work in the secretarial department, and I¡¯ll be perfectly fine.¡±


    At that moment, everything clicked for Ethan. Elsa had been faking it the whole time. It had all been an act to force his hand.


    ¡°Mom,e on,¡± Ethan said with a dark expression. ¡°This is mypany, not our home. This ce runs on rules. The secretarial department is high-pressure andplicated. Minna can¡¯t handle it.¡±


    There was nothing harsh in his tone, but the frustration was unmistakable. He couldn¡¯t believe his mother would go so far as to pretend she was ill to force him to change his mind.


    ¡°Oh, my head¡­ It hurts¡­¡± Elsa cried again. She let her head drop back against the cushions, eyes squeezed shut, her brows furrowed in feigned pain.


    As long as Ethan kept refusing her, she had no ns to stop.


    ¡°Fine. I¡¯ll agree to what you want,¡± Ethan said, his voice filled with frustration. Despite everything, a part of him still worried that his mother might actually be unwell.


    Minna¡¯s eyes lit up the instant she heard that. ¡°Really?¡±


    This was all she needed. If she could stay in the secretarial department, she would work close to him. With enough time, charm, and effort, she was certain she could make him fall for her.


    Ethan nodded reluctantly and did not even bother to spare her another nce. Even if she got the position, it didn¡¯t mean she could see him at will. Only Neville and Rex had the right to ess his office. The rest of the staff handled general tasks and had no direct contact with him. She really thought she could get closer to him just by being his secretary? That was absurd.


    Minna had already pieced it together: Elsa had been faking all along. What Elsa had done moved her. She had gone to such lengths for her sake. How could she not repay her for it? How could she not try even harder to win Ethan over?


    Buoyed by her triumph, Minna lifted her chin with pride. Her eyesnded on Brenna. ¡°I¡¯m staying here to work, Miss Harper. Try not to get too jealous. I¡¯ll be seeing Mr. Mitchell every day, probably more often than you do.¡±


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    ¡°Then I wish you the best of luck.¡± Brenna turned away and returned to her seat, her movement graceful. She remainedposed and not the slightest bit ruffled.


    Seeing Brenna soposed, Minna felt defeated.


    She shifted her gaze to Ethan, and her heart pounded wildly in her chest. He really was something. He was the kind of man who left her breathless just by existing. She felt herself falling even harder for him now.


    Ethan felt resigned. He cast a nce at Brenna, silently hoping she wasn¡¯t upset. When she met his gaze and even offered a faint smile, he finally felt relieved.


    ¡°Mom, already agreed. Are you feeling better now?¡± he said to Elsa.


    Atst, Elsa dropped the act. She sat up straighter, looking perfectly fine. ¡°Yeah. That¡¯s more like it.¡±


    She tugged Ethan to sit down beside her and continued, ¡°Ethan, as your mother, everything I do is for your own good. Minna¡¯s a wonderful girl. She¡¯s the daughter of an old friend of mine, Edna. You met Minna when you were kids. Trust me, she¡¯s perfect for you.¡±


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 Chapter 635

    ?Chapter 635:


    Though Minna had secured her spot in the secretary department through questionable tactics, she was in high spirits. But watching everyone else leave while Ethan lingered alone with Brenna¡ªdoor closed¡ªsoured her mood.


    Rex approached, his expression tight with irritation. He was still simmering over his earlier sh with Minna, anxious about whether she would cause trouble for himter.


    Minna¡¯s identity gave him a headache. He doubted Ethan would ever take her seriously or bend to his mother¡¯s pressure. Ten years from now, Minna would likely still be nowhere near bing Ethan¡¯s wife. Still, he worried she might leverage her connection to Elsa to assert dominance in the secretary department and use Elsa to get closer to Ethan. Even if unlikely, the possibility darkened his mood further.


    Rex stopped at Minna¡¯s new desk, his voice curt and formal. ¡°You don¡¯t have a specific role in the secretary department yet. Your tasks are to prepare coffee for the CEO¡¯s office and clean the office twice daily¡ªmorning and evening. Mr. Mitchell takes one coffee in the morning, three sses of water before noon, and three more in the afternoon. For guests, you will also cater to their needs. You need to memorize the preferences of clients who visit for meetings. Any slipup will cost you part of your sry.¡±


    His clipped tone and rigid professionalism made Minna feel displeased. Still, she wasn¡¯t the type to throw her weight around. Deep down, she sensed Rex was targeting her on purpose.


    Was this really a secretary¡¯s job? It felt like glorified maid work. Still, these tasks would keep her near Ethan. Though annoyed, she didn¡¯t voice her displeasure.


    ¡°Fine. Coffee and cleaning. I¡¯ll handle it perfectly,¡± she said.


    Rex sneered inwardly. He believed she was in for a rude awakening. The job seemed simple, but Ethan¡¯s standards were strict. Even brewing coffee came with a maze of unspoken rules.


    ¡°Before you, ni Boyd managed these duties. If you¡¯re unsure, ask her,¡± Rex said.


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    Minna brushed it off. ¡°Got it,¡± she replied curtly.


    ¡°There are guests in the CEO¡¯s office now. Prepare two cups of coffee and deliver them.¡±


    Rex walked off without another word. Minna didn¡¯t bother consulting ni, heading straight to the pantry.


    Minna was using ni¡¯s workstation, forcing ni to share a cramped corner with another colleague. Yet ni was oddly cheerful. Serving coffee and tea had always been a minefield¡ªone misstep could earn a harsh rebuke from Ethan. Being free of the task was a relief.


    Leaning toward her desk neighbor, Zaylee Natt, ni whispered, ¡°Let¡¯s steer clear of her. We don¡¯t want to offend her.¡±


    Zaylee, a seasoned secretary in her early thirties, recently married and known for her ster work, scoffed, ¡°She thinks she¡¯s royalty just because Mrs. Mitchell sent her here. Did you see her strutting earlier? Like she owns the ce.¡±


    Nearby colleagues couldn¡¯t help but join in the conversation.


    ¡°She¡¯s bad news. We¡¯d better watch our backs. Even the CEO has to put up with her. We can¡¯t afford to offend her.¡±


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 Chapter 636

    ?Chapter 636:


    In the pantry, Minna froze, awestruck by the Mitchell Group¡¯s extravagance.


    Rows of coffee beans, multiple coffee machines, and different brands of milk lined the space.


    Minna, who disliked coffee¡¯s bitterness and favored sweet instant mixes, felt a bit overwhelmed.


    Standing before the array of beans and equipment, she realized this task wasn¡¯t as simple as she had assumed.


    ¡°It¡¯s just coffee. How hard can it be?¡± she muttered under her breath to boost her confidence.


    She grabbed a random bag of beans, dumped them into a machine, and jabbed at buttons she barely understood. After a while, she finally figured out how the machine worked.


    She used hot water directly to make the coffee and added two spoonfuls of sugar. Pleased with her effort, she arranged two cups of coffee on a tray and strode confidently to Ethan¡¯s office.


    Inside the office, Ethan and Brenna sat close, quietly discussing the Harper Group share transfers.


    Brenna had moved her chair near Ethan¡¯s, their shoulders nearly touching.


    ¡°There¡¯s no need to transfer the shares to me. I¡¯m not in need of money. If you want to give them to me, save them for a wedding gift,¡± Brenna said lightly.


    Her casual mention of marriage warmed Ethan¡¯s chest. Her trust in him, unshaken by the day¡¯s chaos, filled him with quiet joy.


    ¡°All right. As you wish,¡± he replied softly.


    Minna entered with the tray, and the atmosphere shifted. Ethan¡¯s and Brenna¡¯s expressions changed, their smiles vanishing. Ethan looked especially cold. Minna¡¯s heart sank. She knew Ethan¡¯s attitude toward her, but she couldn¡¯t help feeling a bit hurt by it.


    Swallowing her frustration, she set the cups of coffee down and said stiffly, ¡°Please enjoy.¡±


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    At that moment, she felt like a lowly servant.


    Ethan nced at the coffee, his eyes narrowing. ¡°What is this?¡± His voice was frigid. ¡°Do you even know what coffee I drink? This isn¡¯t it. I only take Heteron roast. Take this away.¡±


    Minna¡¯s temper red, convinced that Ethan was messing with her on purpose. She couldn¡¯t contain her frustration and blurted out, ¡°It¡¯s only coffee! Why fuss over something so trivial? It all tastes the same anyway. Even if I make another cup, it¡¯ll still be just coffee.¡±


    Her eyes shot daggers at Brenna, convinced she was putting on an act. She believed Brenna feared her prolonged presence in the secretarial department, worried that her continuous proximity to Ethan might ignite a romantic spark, ultimately leading him to abandon her. Minna interpreted Ethan¡¯s criticism as a thinly veiled attempt to appease Brenna¡¯s jealousy.


    Her gaze hardened with defiance as she met Ethan¡¯s eyes, her stance unyielding.


    Ethan¡¯s reply was icy, his detachment palpable. ¡°If you find it so challenging to meet this standard, perhaps you should consider returning to the sales department.¡±


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 Chapter 637

    ?Chapter 637:


    Brenna¡¯s voice was calm. ¡°If you can¡¯t even manage a simple coffee, what else are you good for?¡±


    Minna¡¯s pride felt attacked. With both Ethan and Brenna seemingly aligned against her, her resolve hardened. ¡°Fine. You win. I¡¯ll remake the coffee.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s face was a mask of indifference, but her words carried a subtle nudge. ¡°Remember, Ethan has refined tastes. You might want to consult the person who prepared coffee for him before, for some pointers. Make sure you¡¯ve mastered the task before you attempt another.¡±


    Feeling belittled and seething with anger, Minna retorted, ¡°Why are you making such a big deal out of this? It¡¯s just coffee!¡±


    Unruffled, Brenna responded lightly, ¡°It seems you¡¯re not much of a coffee drinker yourself. Perhaps you¡¯ve never been exposed to theplexities it involves. You really need to prepare more thoroughly. It¡¯s one thing to stumble in private, but failing in front of a high-profile client isn¡¯t just a personal mistake; it will reflect poorly on the entire Mitchell Group.¡±


    Ethan nodded in agreement, a hint of respect flickering in his eyes for Brenna¡¯s tactful yet sharp words.


    ¡°That¡¯s right,¡± he said. ¡°Our clients are distinguished figures. If basic responsibilities are beyond your reach, then this isn¡¯t the ce for you. You can go back to the sales department. I have no room for ipetence here.¡±


    Minna¡¯s heart sank as their words pierced her like a barrage of arrows. It was clear¡ªthey were siding against her, shaming her in unison.


    Against all expectations, Ethan had chosen to overlook his mother¡¯s wishes for Brenna. Fury boiling within her, Minna clenched her jaw tight and stormed off, silently vowing to make Brenna and Ethan regret their actions.


    Brenna¡¯s chuckle was light, almost teasing. ¡°You really do set high standards, don¡¯t you?¡±


    Ethan¡¯s smile held a certain warmth as he replied, ¡°When you¡¯re grinding as hard as I am, isn¡¯t a touch of luxury justified? I sign off on their sries; it¡¯s only fair they meet my expectations. If they can¡¯t, I¡¯ll rece them.¡±


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    Brenna chuckled again, her amusement clear. ¡°You¡¯ve got a point,¡± she said, her gaze following Minna¡¯s hasty retreat. Elsa probably assumed the secretary role was a breeze; she clearly hadn¡¯t expected this job to be so demanding for Minna.


    Storming back to the secretarial department, Minna was visibly furious. Her first attempt at fulfilling a simple request had fallen t; she couldn¡¯t even make a decent cup of coffee.


    ¡°Such fuss over coffee,¡± she muttered to herself, vexed. ¡°What¡¯s so special about it anyway? It¡¯s hardly a matter of importance.¡± The other secretaries overheard her words and shared ncesced with amusement. None chose to speak to her.


    Particrly ni, who had always prepared coffee for Ethan before, simply chuckled softly to herself and returned to her tasks.


    Bristling with irritation, Minna whipped out her phone and furiously texted an old friend from her performance troupe days, seeking counsel. Bolstered by the advice, she approached ni with a trace of defiance still evident in her stance.


    Minna had scoffed at the notion that ni¡¯s primary duty had been merely managing coffee, a task she deemed trivial and beneath her. In her eyes, ni represented the epitome of redundancy in their department.


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 Chapter 638

    ?Chapter 638:


    However, after her own trials, Minna began to recognize that the job might holdplexities she had initially dismissed.


    With rigid posture, Minna inquired, ¡°ni, which coffee blend does Mr. Mitchell prefer?¡±


    ni maintained herposure, unaffected by Minna¡¯s arrogant demeanor. She replied, ¡°He prefers the Heteron blend.¡±


    Her response was concise, sticking strictly to the query posed, nothing more.


    After receiving her sinct answer, Minna offered a terse ¡°Thanks¡± before turning away.


    From the side, Zaylee leaned in close, shing ni a covert thumbs-up. ¡°Keep it to yourself about the precise number of beans, the exact grind time, and the fact that Mr. Mitchell usually goes for atte. Oh, and definitely skip mentioning how sweet he takes it,¡± she whispered.


    ni¡¯s smile was subtle yet knowing. ¡°Of course.¡±


    As Minna walked away, Zaylee barely contained her amusement. ¡°Earlier, she served Mr. Mitchell¡¯s and Miss Harper¡¯s drinks in paper cups. Does she think the Mitchell Group is on the verge of bankruptcy or something?¡±


    The secretarial staff shared a quiet chuckle among themselves. Meanwhile, Minna, clearly frustrated, spent an inordinate amount of time in the pantry before triumphantly presenting two freshly brewed cups of coffee in Ethan¡¯s office. Her posture was stiff, and her expression aloof as she set the cups down before Ethan and Brenna.


    Ethan barely nced at his cup before a frown marred his features. ¡°I only drinkttes,¡± he stated icily. ¡°You should be aware of that.¡±


    Minna¡¯s patience snapped. ¡°What does it matter? Coffee is coffee! And what on earth is atte supposed to be?¡±


    ¡°Take these away,¡± Ethanmanded, his tone slicing through the air. He was visibly annoyed now. Brenna had been seated here for nearly an hour yet hadn¡¯t been served anything resembling a decent beverage. His reputation for hospitality was at stake.


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    Catching Brenna¡¯s gaze, Minna noticed her slight head shake and the dismissive shrug of her shoulders, signaling her disdain.


    ¡°You really should acquaint yourself with how the affluent live,¡± Brenna said, a hint of mockery in her tone. ¡°It might just elevate your service skills.¡±


    ¡°Keep your advice to yourself!¡± Minna retorted, her anger ring against Brenna¡¯s smug demeanor.


    Brenna left the Mitchell Group without even having a drop of coffee. Ethan, too, decided to wrap up his day; he and Brenna left to enjoy dinner.


    Just before leaving thepany, Ethan called Rex over. ¡°Rex, how did you manage things today? Brenna was here for a full two hours and didn¡¯t even get a ss of decent coffee. Your performance is declining. If you¡¯re not up to the task, I¡¯ll find someone who is.¡±


    Ethan chose not to confront Minna directly, cing the me squarely on Rex for allowing her to dampen his spirits.


    Rex, disheartened yet unable to retort, ran his fingers through his hair and promptly acknowledged his oversight. ¡°Understood, Mr. Mitchell. It won¡¯t happen again.¡±


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 Chapter 639

    ?Chapter 639:


    Rex was at a loss regarding how to handle Minna.


    There was no way she could manage significant tasks like overseeing project proposals¡ªnot without causing a catastrophe.


    As Ethan left, a cloud of displeasure in his wake, Rex quietly pulled Neville to one side.


    ¡°What¡¯s the n for Minna? She¡¯s not cutting it in any role,¡± Rex said, frustration etching his voice.


    Neville, who had also grown increasingly exasperated because of Minna, responded, ¡°The Mitchell Group isn¡¯t going broke. We can afford an idler in thepany. Maybe just let her do the cleaning or something.¡±


    Rex paused, wrestling with the dilemma. ¡°But Minna was a direct rmendation from Mr. Mitchell¡¯s mother. Doesn¡¯t it seem a bit inappropriate to relegate her to cleaning duties?¡±


    Neville was blunt. ¡°If your goal is to have her offend more clients and botchrger projects, then by all means, let her continue serving coffee.¡±


    Rex¡¯s heart sank; it was like he was holding a ticking bomb now.


    Neville added dryly, ¡°Isn¡¯t it obvious that Mr. Mitchell dislikes Minna?¡±


    Rex gave a quick nod; he¡¯d seen it too, no question about it.


    The realization hit him squarely.


    After dismissing Neville, Rex marched determinedly back into the bustling secretarial department. Standing before everyone, he sharply reprimanded Minna, stripping her of her coffee duties.


    ¡°What should I be doing now?¡± Minna¡¯s voice cracked slightly, caught off guard by the public chastisement on her first day here. She felt deeply embarrassed, believing Rex was disregarding Elsa¡¯s influence, to whom she had already voiced her grievances earlier that day. But she couldn¡¯tin to Elsa again. If she did, she¡¯d only confirm her ownck ofpetence.


    Rex barely acknowledged herint. He quickly delegated the coffee duties back to ni and departed to address his own tasks. Beneath her breath, Minna grumbled at Rex¡¯s departing back, ¡°At least assign me some work!¡±


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    Not long after Ethan and Brenna had exited the Mitchell Group premises, Brenna¡¯s phone rang. Shepard was on the line, urgently requesting her presence at home for a crucial discussion.


    Upon her arrival, Brenna noticed that Ableson and his family were also there. Everyone gathered around a dinner tablevishly set with a variety of sumptuous dishes.


    Ernst weed Ethan with open arms. ¡°Perfect timing. Join us. We were just about to delve into the matter of the Harper Group¡¯s shares.¡± Ethan greeted each member of the Harper family before sitting down. The dining table, typically upied by just a few, was bustling with guests today.


    Ernst took the initiative to fill everyone¡¯s sses with red wine. He lifted his ss, eyes sparkling with gratitude, and said, ¡°The rebound in the Harper Group¡¯s stock today is solely due to Brenna and Ethan¡¯s efforts. Justst night, I was scrambling to secure emergency funds from my banking contacts. They warned me the amount I sought was astronomical; approval, if granted, would take at least two weeks. By then, it would¡¯ve been far toote.¡± As his words hung in the air, all eyes shifted to Brenna and Ethan, who were met with a round of appreciative toasts.


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    ?Chapter 640:


    Ernst continued, ¡°Brenna helps us because she is family. So I particrly want to acknowledge Mr. Mitchell. Without his intervention, the Harper Group¡¯s stocks wouldn¡¯t have bounced back so swiftly. Just another day like today, and we¡¯ll see thepany fully stabilize. Ethan, this toast is for you.¡±


    Ethan offered a mild smile. ¡°There¡¯s no need for such formality. We¡¯re practically family. I couldn¡¯t possibly sit back and watch the Harper Group struggle.¡±


    One by one, the Harper family members stood, sses in hand, to toast Ethan, their faces alight with genuine appreciation.


    In merely a week, not only had the Harper Group¡¯s stock prices recovered to their pre-crisis levels, but they had also nudged slightly higher.


    Over recent weeks, Rosie had engaged an army of online saboteurs to tarnish the reputation of the Harper Group. However, thepany¡¯s decisive press conference had cleared the air, rendering her malicious attempts fruitless.


    As another week psed, Rosie¡¯s legal battle against the Harper Group, using them of uwfully seizing her shares, finallymenced.


    Regrettably for her, shecked credible evidence and stood no real chance of triumphing. Predictably, she lost thewsuit. Not only did she fail to recover any shares, but she also incurred significant financial losses from her schemes to hire trolls and stir up dissent among minor shareholders.


    ¡°Mom,¡± Brenna called out as she wheeled her suitcase towards Giselle¡¯s bedroom. She rapped on the door gently before entering. ¡°I¡¯m heading out on a business trip for a few days. Could you cover my Tuesday lecture at Shirie University?¡±


    Giselle, still nestled under her covers, responded warmly, ¡°Of course, I¡¯ll handle it. But isn¡¯t it quite early for you to leave now? It¡¯s only six in the morning.¡±


    ¡°My ne takes off at eight,¡± Brenna said, her voice tinged with urgency. ¡°I was supposed to fly outst week, but Rosie¡¯s legal antics forced a dy. The client is none too pleased about the holdup.¡±


    ¡°Understood, just stay safe. I won¡¯t be able to see you off,¡± Giselle responded, rising from the bed, a hint of worry etching her features.


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    ¡°Who¡¯s apanying you on this trip?¡±


    ¡°Thiago is apanying me. Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    Descending the stairs, Brenna found the driver poised beside the car, while Thiago was already inside.


    Brenna slid into the car, catching the buoyant air around Thiago. ¡°So, have Leif and Tori finally moved out of Ellie¡¯s ce?¡± she inquired, a yful smirk ying on her lips.


    Thiago¡¯s grin widened. ¡°Yes, they¡¯ve moved out. I purchased two houses¡ªone for them and another in preparation for Hank¡¯s future marriage. Ellie and I have moved in together. After this business, we will get married. You shoulde to our wedding.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s venture to Norview unfolded with surprising smoothness. Spencer Kurt, the man behind the invitation, weed her with a warm smile and wasted no time bringing up a possible coboration. He urged her to unwind during her stay and asked for her help in cracking the encrypted files Edward had left behind.


    Spencer had nearly devoured the Ward family¡¯s entire operation. He had reaped a fortune from this coup.


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 Chapter 641

    ?Chapter 641:


    Brenna, however, didn¡¯t care about that. She only knew that Edward¡¯s empire had been rooted in the drug trade, built on shattered homes and lost lives. But Spencer had his limits. Getting involved with drugs? That was a line he never even considered crossing.


    That bit of conscience was precisely why Brenna had decided to coborate with him.


    A weekter, after her return to Shirie, Brenna noticed a pleasant surprise¡ªher bank ount had grown considerably fatter, a quiet reward for her recent dealings. At the same time, the Harper family found themselves the recipients of an invitation to Rosie¡¯s engagement ceremony.


    The moment Brenna stepped into the living room, dragging her suitcase behind her, her eyesnded on a light purple envelope resting conspicuously on the coffee table. Her gaze was instantly drawn to the unmistakable royal crest of Plieca embossed neatly in the bottom right corner. She picked it up with azy flick of her fingers, inspecting it with mild curiosity.


    ¡°So it¡¯s official then,¡± Brenna murmured, a smirk curling at the corner of her lips. ¡°Rosie is really going to be Prince Maxley¡¯s wife. I guess I gave her too little credit before.¡±


    Her words dripped with cool sarcasm as she flicked the invitation back onto the table.


    Julia approached, reaching out to take Brenna¡¯s suitcase from her grip as she spoke. ¡°That invitation came about five days ago, while you were still out of town. It¡¯s been sitting there untouched ever since. Oh, and in case you¡¯re wondering¡ªtoday¡¯s the big day. The engagement ceremony is happening right now. Neither of your parents attended. Your father made it clear¡ªthe Harper family refuses to acknowledge someone they see as a traitor.¡±


    Brenna merely nodded, her expression tinged with indifference. She had no intention of attending either.


    Upstairs in Brenna¡¯s bedroom, Julia busied herself with the suitcase, her movements meticulous as she set gifts Brenna brought back on the polished surface of the table and sorted clothes for theundry. As she worked, she said to Brenna, ¡°Your father hasn¡¯t stopped talking about the pills you gave him. He has been taking one each day for the past week and ims he hasn¡¯t felt this vigorous in years. He¡¯s even broached the topic with your mother about possibly mass producing the medicine.¡±


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    Brenna stared elsewhere as she absorbed the trivial updates with a distant air.


    As she was finalizing her ns for relocating the studio with Joe and Tommy, the tranquility was abruptly shattered. Patrick burst through the door, his face flushed with irritation. ¡°Brenna!¡± he eximed.


    He slumped onto the sofa in Brenna¡¯s room, his bodynguage screaming defeat as he tossed his phone onto herp with dramatic ir. ¡°Mommy and Thiago¡­ They went on their honeymoon and just ditched me!¡±


    Brenna gently tapped the y button on a voice message on Patrick¡¯s phone. Ellie¡¯s voice rang out, ¡°Hey Patrick, it¡¯s Mommy. Thiago and I are off on a honeymoon trip. It¡¯s a bit of a hassle to bring you along this time, so you¡¯re going to stay with your godmother for the week. Don¡¯t worry; I¡¯ve already prepared all your favorite outfits for you. Have a st, okay?¡±


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 Chapter 642

    ?Chapter 642:


    With a tender stroke through Patrick¡¯s hair, Brenna sighed, her voice tinged with sympathy. ¡°Oh, poor kiddo, seems like you¡¯ve been left behind. Ellie¡¯s really living it up, huh? She¡¯s having fun without you.¡±


    Patrick puffed out his cheeks and copsed into Brenna¡¯s embrace, his voice muffled. ¡°They must think I¡¯m just in the way. I am so pitiful. You¡¯ve got to make it up to me!¡±


    Brenna chuckled, her eyes twinkling. ¡°You bet! After a week in Norview, surviving on nothing but steaks, burgers, and greasy chicken, I¡¯m really fed up with that. I¡¯m craving some authentic Vand dishes. How about we hit up that new spot downtown? What do you say?¡±


    Patrick¡¯s face lit up as he lifted his head, his previous dismay forgotten.


    ¡°Yes! Let¡¯s go now!¡±


    ¡°Give me just a minute to change,¡± Brenna replied.


    She swiftly changed intofortable cargo pants and a simple T-shirt, slung her trusty backpack over her shoulder, and ushered Patrick out the door.


    They were barely settled in the car when Brenna¡¯s phone rang; it was Ethan calling.


    Brenna answered, and Ethan¡¯s deep, smooth voice flowed through the speaker. She realized she really missed him.


    Ethan¡¯s voice crackled through the phone,ced with palpable excitement. ¡°You¡¯re back?¡±


    Brenna responded with a soft hum, her voice tinged with a hint of resignation. ¡°Yeah, but Ellie and Thiago have gone away on their honeymoon. Can you believe it? They¡¯ve left Patrick in my care. Looks like they won¡¯t be back for a whole month.¡±


    Ethan, sitting in his car, immediately frowned. The thought of having a third wheel on their dates didn¡¯t sit well with him. ¡°Doesn¡¯t the kid have grandparents? Why do you have to be the one taking care of him?¡±


    Brenna cast a nce at Patrick before she replied, ¡°Well, you know how tricky it can be for the elderly to keep up with kids these days¡­¡±


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    Before Brenna could borate further, Patrick, having overheard the conversation, interjected, ¡°Grandma and Grandpa are too busy with my uncle¡¯s wedding stuff. They don¡¯t have time for me.¡±


    The truth was, Patrick had no intention of staying with Leif and Tori. Their house was a fun-free zone¡ªno ice cream, no gadgets, no games, and definitely no fun trips.


    He preferred living with Brenna.


    Ethan¡¯s frustration simmered. ¡°And what about his dad? I think Jayceon needs to take care of his own kid.¡±


    He let out a huff, rubbing his temple. ¡°I¡¯m going to make sure Jayceon takes his son away. I¡¯m not about to let his kid cling to you for a month and ruin our dates.¡±


    Ethan wasn¡¯t in a rush to drive off. Instead, irritation bubbling, he called Jayceon, but Jayceon didn¡¯t pick up.


    He could only give up.


    ¡°What¡¯s got him so tied up that he can¡¯t even pick up my calls?¡± Ethan grumbled under his breath. Digging up another number for Jayceon, he gave it another shot. But Jayceon still didn¡¯t pick up.


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 Chapter 643

    ?Chapter 643:


    Out of options, he left Jayceon a message to pick up his kid.


    Upon arrival, Ethan saw Brenna and Patrick already at a table. They¡¯d picked a seafood grill and stew joint.


    Fresh off a whirlwind business trip abroad, Ethan had onlye back a couple of days ago. He had been scouring the city for the perfect spot to wine and dine Brenna recently. But now, with Patrick being the third wheel, he felt displeased.


    Still, there was no word from Jayceon. Ethan, equal parts ticked off and defeated, slid into the seat across from Brenna and Patrick, his expression somber.


    Seeing Patrick so close to Brenna, practically glued to her side, sent a jab of irritation through Ethan.


    Patrick, sharp as a tack despite his age, leaned in and whispered to Brenna, ¡°He¡¯s not a fan of me. Look at his grumpy face.¡±


    Brenna stifled augh. ¡°He doesn¡¯t dislike you. He must have just had a bad time. Why not ask him yourself?¡±


    Patrick swiveled to Ethan. ¡°Is that true?¡±


    Ethan let out a heavy sigh, feeling cornered. ¡°Yeah, I tried ringing your dad toe pick you up, but he¡¯s not answering my calls.¡±


    Patrick turned to Brenna with a displeased expression. ¡°See? He thinks I¡¯m a third wheel, just like Mom and Dad. Whenever Dad shows up, he shoves some cash at me, tells me to buy snacks or toys, and then banishes me to my room.¡±


    Brenna burst outughing. This kid didn¡¯t miss a thing.


    She ruffled his hair affectionately. ¡°You are adorable.¡±


    Patrick ced his Rubik¡¯s Cube on the table. ¡°Is the food here any good?¡±


    Ethan¡¯s eyesnded on the cube¡ªa beastly 6¡Á6, perfectly solved. His eyebrows shot up, impressed.


    ¡°You cracked this yourself?¡± Ethan asked, half-doubting. This kind of brainpower was on par with his own as a kid. Suddenly, Patrick wasn¡¯t just some tagalong; he was starting to like him.


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    ¡°Yup,¡± Patrick said, like it was no big deal. ¡°It¡¯s boring to y with this. The custom model cars Brenna got me are way more fun.¡±


    Right then, a waitress swung by with a steaming pot of seafood stew. She nestled it into the table¡¯s built-in burner, flicked on the me, and said, ¡°Dig in! Toppings and sauces are at the self-serve bar.¡±


    Patrick¡¯s eyes sparkled at the simmering pot. He tugged Brenna¡¯s sleeve. ¡°Brenna, let¡¯s go and check out the bar.¡± Brenna and Ethan headed there with Patrick.


    Ethan muttered to Brenna, ¡°Kid¡¯s got some serious smarts. No wonder he wasn¡¯t keen on living with his grandparents.¡±


    Brenna¡¯sugh was soft, her eyes warm with fondness. ¡°He¡¯s sharp as a whip and way more mature than most kids his age. You shouldn¡¯t treat him like a little kid. Just treat him like an adult.¡±


    Ethan wasn¡¯t totally sold. ¡°Mature or not, he¡¯s still a kid.¡±


    Patrick wedged himself between them, stretching on his tiptoes to scope out the counter. ¡°Brenna, I want shrimp! Oh, and bacon strips! And those meatballs!¡±


    Brenna shot him a gentle nudge. ¡°You gotta eat some vegetables, too.¡±


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 Chapter 644

    ?Chapter 644:


    Patrick pulled a face like he had bitten a lemon. ¡°I don¡¯t like vegetables. Wow, there is also yogurt and fruit!¡± He yanked Brenna toward the dessert bar, his excitement evident.


    When the trio strolled back to their table, they caught a little girl from the next table ying with Patrick¡¯s Rubik¡¯s Cube, her curiosity in as day. She looked a smidge older than Patrick, maybe about eight, decked out in a cute outfit.


    ¡°Why¡¯s your cube got so many squares?¡± she asked, eyes wide. ¡°The ones I¡¯ve seen only have nine per side.¡±


    Patrick, charmed by her cuteness, replied, ¡°This one¡¯s apetition-grade 6¡Á6. Those nine-square ones? They¡¯re for people to y with.¡±


    The girl¡¯s face lit up, pure awe. She had yed with a cube before but never got past nailing one side.


    ¡°I see! You solved this all by yourself?¡±


    Patrick replied nonchntly, ¡°Yeah.¡±


    The girl puffed out her cheeks and crossed her arms. ¡°No way! I don¡¯t believe you. I¡¯m gonna jumble it up, and you gotta solve it right in front of me!¡±


    Patrick gave aid-back shrug. ¡°Knock yourself out. I¡¯m gonna eat something first.¡±


    The little girl, buzzing with excitement, scampered back to her mom¡¯s side at the next table, diligently twisting and turning the cube into a chaotic mess.


    Ethan, impressed by Patrick¡¯s wit, started peeling shrimp for him, piling a whole te without a word.


    Patrick¡¯s face lit up at that. ¡°Since you are peeling the shrimp for me, I¡¯m gonna let you in on a little secret!¡±


    He leaned in and whispered into Ethan¡¯s ear, ¡°Thiago used to have a thing for Brenna.¡±


    Ethan froze for a moment, caught off guard. He had once thought Thiago¡¯s nces at Brenna seemed a bit special, but when Thiago and Ellie paired up, he thought he had been overthinking things.


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    ¡°Is that true?¡± Ethan murmured, keeping his voice low. ¡°Did they ever, like, hold hands or kiss or anything?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Patrick said, his face serious.


    Ethan squinted at him, trying to figure out if he was telling the truth. Most kids didn¡¯t have the ability to lie so smoothly, but Patrick? His brain was a cut above; he was sharp enough to fib without flinching. He kept his eyes locked on Patrick, thinking this little genius wasn¡¯t just book-smart; he was slick as a whistle. The kid knew exactly how to push his buttons.


    Meanwhile, Patrick had already bounced back to Brenna¡¯s side, munching on shrimp, clearly loving every bite.


    ¡°I¡¯ve got the 97th and 98th floors all cleared out for your studios,¡± Ethan said. ¡°So, when are you moving your studios there?¡±


    Brenna replied, ¡°Ernst has been pushing for me to move my studios into the Harper Group offices instead.¡±


    Ethan leaned back, keeping his tone steady. ¡°Why move there? My building¡¯s got all the space you¡¯d ever need. Plus, once we get married, you don¡¯t have to move again.¡±


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 Chapter 645

    ?Chapter 645:


    Brenna said, ¡°Isn¡¯t that a little premature? What if we break up in the future?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not going to happen,¡± Ethan quickly said.


    Brenna raised an eyebrow. ¡°Your mother is not exactly my biggest fan, you know. And I¡¯m pretty sure your father doesn¡¯t like me, either.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re marrying me, not them,¡± Ethan said, his tone firm. ¡°Their opinions don¡¯t call the shots. They wanted me to enlist, fly jets, and I said no way. Built my ownpany instead. They were furious, but I didn¡¯t budge. Who I choose to spend my life with? That¡¯s my decision. They won¡¯t be able to interfere in the matter.¡±


    Watching Brenna closely, he felt a wave of relief¡ªshe didn¡¯t seem upset at all. She didn¡¯t bring up that whole Minna fiasco, either. That was what he loved about her. No petty grudges.


    Ethan now felt a little embarrassed. That earlier pang of jealousy due to Thiago having a thing for Brenna before felt downright childish now.


    Brenna studied Ethan¡¯s chiseled face and gave a small nod. ¡°Word is you aren¡¯t exactly the obedient son, unlike Kenny.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right,¡± Ethan said with a grin. ¡°So, you will move your studios to my building, right? We can have meals together every day after the move.¡±


    He fished a few plump shrimp from the pot and ced them onto Brenna¡¯s te. Then, he tossed a couple of lettuce leaves onto Patrick¡¯s. Patrick let out a grumpy huff, pushing the lettuce to the edge of his te. ¡°I don¡¯t eat veggies!¡±


    He shot Ethan a re. ¡°Howe Brenna gets shrimp, and I¡¯m stuck with lettuce?¡±


    Ethan didn¡¯t miss a beat, his tone mock-serious. ¡°Because kids need a bnced diet to grow up strong. Meanwhile, Brenna just got back from a business trip. She must be tired and needs the protein boost.¡±


    Brenna let out a softugh, reaching over to snatch the lettuce off Patrick¡¯s te. She swapped it with a couple of shrimp from her own te. ¡°There you go.¡±


    Patrick¡¯s grumpy pout disappeared.


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    Ethan frowned, shaking his head. ¡°You¡¯re spoiling him too much, you know.¡±


    With a yful smirk, Brenna fished a ky piece of fish from the pot and slid it onto Ethan¡¯s te, topping it with two meatballs.


    Ethan instantly perked up. Food offered by Brenna just tasted better.


    ¡°Hey!¡± The little girl from the next table spoke up. She had turned Patrick¡¯s Rubik¡¯s Cube into a colorful mess and now set it in front of him with a mischievous grin. ¡°I want to watch you solve it.¡±


    Patrick set down his fork, grabbed the cube, and got to work. In under three minutes, every side was back to a perfect single color.


    The girl¡¯s eyes lit up like stars. ¡°You¡¯re incredible! What¡¯s your name? Can I get your number?¡±


    Ethan leaned in, whispering to Brenna, ¡°Look at him, already charming girls at his age.¡±


    After the meal, Ethan and Brenna took Patrick for a leisurely walk through the nearby park. It was well past nine in the evening by the time they went back home.


    Shepard and Giselle had already wrapped up their dinner and evening stroll. Ernst and Dalton were in their rooms, buried in their own projects.


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 Chapter 646

    ?Chapter 646:


    Brenna handed out the goodies she¡¯d brought from Norview¡ªa rare perfume for Giselle, a couple of cigars for Shepard, and sleek bottles of high-end cologne for Ernst and Dalton.


    They all gathered in the cozy third-floor lounge, chatting. Brenna said, ¡°Ethan¡¯s pushing for me to move.¡±


    Shepard and Giselle shared a quick look, both caught off guard. Displeasure flickered across their faces, especially Giselle¡¯s. She was against Brenna moving in with Ethan before marrying him.


    Shepard thought the same. He believed Brenna and Ethan at least needed to have a wedding ceremony before they could move in together.


    Giselle spoke up, her tone gentle but steady. ¡°Brenna, honey, I¡¯m not so sure about this. You two aren¡¯t married yet. And Elsa¡¯s still not on board with you and Ethan being together. I think we need to get both families together and hash this out properly.¡±


    Shepard nodded. ¡°She¡¯s right. You¡¯re still young, Brenna. No need to dive headfirst into marriage.¡±


    Brenna blinked, genuinely thrown. ¡°Whoa, hold up. I didn¡¯t mean moving in with Ethan. I was talking about moving my studios to the Mitchell Group building instead of the Harper Group building.¡±


    Giselle let out a warmugh and swooped in to wrap Brenna in a quick, cozy hug. ¡°I mistakenly believed you¡¯d already packed your bags for Ethan¡¯s ce! I thought that was too fast. He¡¯s supposed to be your life partner. Our family needs a good couple of years to evaluate him for you. Of course, you can¡¯t move in with him just after being in a rtionship for a few months.¡±


    Ernst couldn¡¯t help but defend Ethan. ¡°Mom, honestly, Ethan¡¯s a great man. When the Harper Group ran into trouble, he stepped in without a second thought. He threw hundreds of millions into the market to stabilize our stocks, asking for nothing in return. You won¡¯t find a better son-inw than him.¡±


    The five of them shared a heartyugh, their chatter filling the room with warmth. Just then, Patrick toddled over, clutching Brenna¡¯s car model, the one she used for her lectures. He mbered onto the couch beside her, his big eyes pleading. ¡°Brenna, can I y with this for a while?¡±


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    Brenna¡¯s smile was instant, and she gave a quick nod. But then, a thought struck her, and she tilted her head, ¡°Yes, you can. But how about you sleep in your own room tonight?¡±


    Patrick¡¯s eyes sparkled like he had just won the lottery. ¡°I don¡¯t have to bunk with Dalton tonight? That¡¯s wonderful!¡±


    Dalton shot a fake scowl and leaned over to give Patrick¡¯s nose a yful pinch. ¡°What¡¯s that? Did I not treat you well? Ungrateful little squirt, after all the times I¡¯ve taken care of you, how can you be like this?¡±


    Patrick puffed out his chest, ring at Dalton with all the seriousness a kid could muster. ¡°I¡¯m a big man now, okay? I don¡¯t need you to take care of me!¡±


    The whole family burst intoughter.


    Giselle chimed in, her voice dripping with affection. ¡°How about you stay in the room next to Brenna¡¯s, huh?¡±


    Since Rosie had moved out and clearly wasn¡¯ting back, her room was now empty and could be used by Patrick.


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 Chapter 647

    ?Chapter 647:


    Patrick, eager to prove he was mature, spoke like an adult. ¡°That¡¯s good. I can sleep on my own. Brenna, I am going to bed now.¡±


    Brenna chuckled and gently tugged him back to the couch. ¡°Whoa, slow your roll. That room needs a quick spruce-up first. Someone used to live there. I will ask the¡ª


    ¡°Servants will prepare the room for you, alright?¡± Brenna said.


    Patrick gave a nod and snuggled up next to her, ying with the car model.


    Giselle¡¯s eyes flicked to the model, a hint of worry creeping in. ¡°Isn¡¯t that the one you use for your lectures? You sure he won¡¯t break it? Wouldn¡¯t it be a problem if a piece went missing or something?¡±


    Patrick¡¯s head shot up, his voice brimming with confidence. ¡°I¡¯m not gonna break it, I swear. I know what I¡¯m doing. No pieces are going missing.¡±


    Giselle grinned, charmed by his earnestness.


    Brenna waved off the concern with a smile. ¡°It¡¯s all good, Mom. Patrick¡¯s a sharp one. This model¡¯s tricky, but he can take it apart and put it back together on his own. He¡¯s a wiz with mechanical stuff, and he has incredible coding skills, too.¡±


    Ernst nodded. ¡°Indeed. Thest time Brenna was giving a talk at the Harper Group, some people tried to sabotage the projector. Guess who sniffed out the glitch and fixed it? This little genius. Kid¡¯s got a bright future.¡±


    Giselle was thoroughly impressed. She called for Julia to get Rosie¡¯s old room ready for Patrick.


    The next morning, Brenna roused Patrick early. She had a jam-packed day ahead, moving her two studios into the Mitchell Group building.


    When they trotted downstairs, Patrick¡¯s jaw practically hit the floor. ¡°Whoa! This is next-level!¡± he gasped, eyes bugging out at the breakfast before him.


    The dining table was a feast for the senses, loaded with delicious food: golden croissants, buttery biscuits, crumbly scones, a muffin medley, whole-grain toast, bagels thered with cream cheese, fluffy scrambled eggs, sizzling bacon, juicy sausages¡­ There were also different kinds of pies.


    Patrick gawked at the spread, practically drooling. ¡°The food smells so good!¡±


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    He then turned to Brenna. ¡°Can I eat anything I want here?¡±


    Brenna mussed his hair with a grin. ¡°Of course.¡±


    Julia strolled over, her smile warm as she gestured to the spread. ¡°We¡¯ve got all sorts of breads and pies. Which ones would you like?¡±


    Patrick parked himself in front of the pies, marveling at their picture-perfect crusts. Each one looked so great, better than anything he had seen in bakeries.


    ¡°I want all of them,¡± he dered, ticking off his order on his fingers. ¡°Plus a bowl of chicken soup, one egg, a ss of milk¡­¡±


    Brennaughed. ¡°That¡¯s a lot. Are you sure you can finish all that? You¡¯re staying here for a few days; no need to eat everything you like in a day.¡±


    Patrick plopped down across from her, letting out a theatrical sigh. ¡°Brenna, you don¡¯t get it. My mom sleeps till noon and never makes breakfast. Grandma tries, but it¡¯s just boring soup with pickles. The eggs? in boiled, every time. Here, the breakfast is fantastic. Can I stay here forever? I¡¯m worried that when my grandparents move out, Mom won¡¯t prepare breakfast for me, leaving me to cook for myself.¡±


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 Chapter 648

    ?Chapter 648:


    Julia, who was about to serve up his te, overheard his words and grinned in surprise. ¡°You are so little yet already know how to cook?¡±


    Patrick puffed out his chest, looking proud. ¡°I can make spaghetti, and I¡¯m a pro at ordering takeout!¡±


    Julia chuckled. ¡°What a champ. Ellie¡¯s lucky to have you as her son.¡±


    One by one, the Harper family trickled downstairs to have breakfast, filling the dining room with chatter and the clink of tes. Brenna was still digging into her breakfast when a familiar voice piped up behind her. ¡°Wow, this looks incredible.¡±


    It was Ethan, looking like he had just stepped out of a magazine in a sleek ck bespoke suit. He quickly greeted Shepard and Giselle. Giselle, who was fond of Ethan, lit up with a warm smile. ¡°Ethan, have you eaten yet? If not, you can join us.¡±


    Ethan shot a quick nce at Dalton and Ernst, then shed a grin as he slid into the seat next to Brenna.


    ¡°Don¡¯t mind if I do. Haven¡¯t had a bite yet, so I¡¯m diving in.¡±


    Julia hustled over with a fresh set of utensils, setting them neatly in front of Ethan.


    Ethan¡¯s eyes roamed the spread.


    Living solo in his sprawling house, he had a housekeeper, sure, but breakfast was always simple: one boiled egg, two slices of whole-grain toast, and a ss of milk.


    Even back when he had lived with his parents, he had never had such avish breakfast.


    Brenna, curious, tilted her head and said to Ethan, ¡°You live halfway across town. How¡¯d you get here so early?¡±


    Ethan and Ernst both let out a chuckle, leaving Brenna confused.


    Ernst jumped in, grinning. ¡°Oh, he¡¯s closer than you think. Bought a ce right here in the neighborhood. Moved in yesterday. Says he wants to apany you to work every day.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s jaw dropped as she turned to Ethan. ¡°Is that true?¡±


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    Ethan grinned. ¡°Yeah. We are living in the same neighborhood now. Any chance I could swing by for breakfast and dinner every day?¡±


    Shepard and Giselle shared a quick knowing look.


    Shepard let out a hearty chuckle. ¡°Of course you can. We¡¯d love to have you join our meals. I just hope your parents won¡¯t think we¡¯re stealing you away.¡±


    Brenna couldn¡¯t resist a yful jab. ¡°If your mom catches wind of this, she might faint from anger again.¡±


    Ethan shrugged. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about that. I¡¯ve been stirring up trouble since I was a child. My mother is already used to being angry with me; she¡¯s not gonna faint easily.¡±


    After a pause, he added, ¡°Besides, didn¡¯t I often have meals at your house when I was young?¡±


    Ernst said, ¡°That was a whole different matter. You should talk this over with your family first. Your mom¡¯s already against you dating Brenna. You sure she won¡¯t storm over here and scold you if she learns of this?¡±


    Brenna nodded, agreeing with Ernst.


    Ethan just waved it off, unfazed. ¡°It¡¯s fine. I¡¯ve done far worse things than this before.¡±


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 Chapter 649

    ?Chapter 649:


    Shepard and Giselle knew Ethan and his brother Kenny were night and day¡ªone a rule-follower, the other a born troublemaker¡ªbut they hadn¡¯t realized how much chaos Ethan used to stir up. They exchanged a nce, sensing this might not be appropriate, but didn¡¯t say anything about it. It was just meals, after all; the Harper household could handle one more mouth.


    Besides, with so many housekeepers and security guards at home, every meal was already prepared for arge group. Adding Ethan to the equation wouldn¡¯t make much of a difference.


    After breakfast, Brenna grabbed her bag and hopped into Ethan¡¯s car with Patrick. They headed straight for the Mitchell Group headquarters.


    Ethan led Brenna up to the 57th floor, and Brenna¡¯s eyes widened. The whole ce was freshly renovated, with shiny office gear from wall to wall. The entire floor was hers, big enough for hundreds of employees.


    ¡°When did you start remodeling this floor?¡± Brenna asked, floored. A makeover like this didn¡¯t happen overnight. Ethan had to have been nning it for ages.


    Ethan shed a soft smile. ¡°It looks good, right? Kicked it off two months ago. Heard you were growing your team, so I figured I¡¯d let you move your team here. Now we can head to work and go home together every day.¡±


    ¡°Ethan, this is beyond generous,¡± Brenna said, her voice thick with gratitude. ¡°You¡¯ve got a whole empire of employees, and you still carved out an entire floor for me? Thiago, Tommy, and Joe will have their own offices now.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s face lit up, his smile practically glowing. ¡°No need to thank me. Oh, and by the way, I didn¡¯t just save one floor¡ªI reserved two. When your team grows, you¡ª


    ¡°¡­won¡¯t need to move again.¡±


    Brenna was so grateful that words failed her. She threw her arms around Ethan and pressed a soft kiss to his cheek.


    But Ethan wasn¡¯t about to let it end there. His arms slid around her waist, pulling her close as he leaned in, kissing her on the lips.


    Her lips were so soft.


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    Just then, Minna stepped out of the elevator, clutching a stic spray bottle and a stack of cleaning cloths. When she caught sight of Brenna and Ethan locked in a kiss, her face darkened.


    Trailing behind Minna were ni and a few other Mitchell Group cleaning staff. They held their breath, tiptoeing out of the elevator, thrilled to catch a glimpse of their boss and his future wife kissing.


    Minna cleared her throat to disrupt the moment, her foot stomping the floor like she was trying to scare off a stray cat. She wanted Ethan and Brenna to stop kissing.


    Ethan calmly ended the kiss. ¡°I called them here to clean the ce,¡± he said to Brenna.


    Minna¡¯s mind churned with a tempest of emotions. What she had just seen shocked her.


    She had believed her ce in the Mitchell family was cemented, given that Elsa already treated her as her future daughter-inw. Even if Ethan wasn¡¯t fond of her, she had assumed he would at least show her basic courtesy.


    At the very least, she thought he wouldn¡¯t dare defy Elsa by openly being close to Brenna.


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 Chapter 650

    ?Chapter 650:


    But reality struck her like a cold de¡ªEthan¡¯s rift with Elsa was deeper than she had realized. Not only did he flout his mother¡¯s wishes, but he was also very close to Brenna in public, even kissing her.


    Upon arriving at thepany today, she set down her designer handbag, a splurge she had justified because everyone in the office unted luxury brands. She was also wearing an outfit she had just bought yesterday, equally expensive.


    This was a lifestyle she had never imagined affording before. Her mother worked with Elsa, and she herself had once been Elsa¡¯s subordinate.


    Though her family¡¯s status mirrored Elsa¡¯s in some ways, it paled inparison to the Mitchells¡¯ wealth.


    In order to make herself worthy of Ethan, she had spentvishly to polish her image. Yet, on her debut in the expensive outfit, Rex saddled her with cleaning duties.


    She had argued with him, but Rex had ample justification for that. ¡°You¡¯re the only one without a set role here. Who else should do it but you? Besides, this order came straight from Mr. Mitchell.¡±


    Minna felt utterly humiliated. She was certain that Rex was deliberately making things difficult for her.


    Wasn¡¯t cleaning the janitor¡¯s job? Why was she, a secretary, stuck with it?


    She had learned from Rex that the 57th and 58th floors were newly renovated for a new department, needing thorough cleaning and setup. She had never expected Ethan and Brenna to be here.


    Now that Brenna had learned she was here to do the cleaning, Minna knew mockery was inevitable.


    How could she not be furious?


    Yet, amid her fury, her mind raced. She quickly thought of a n to make Brenna upset.


    Thrusting the stic bin she carried into ni¡¯s hands, Minna strode toward Ethan and Brenna. She had spent hours perfecting her makeup that morning and was confident she rivaled, if not surpassed, Brenna¡¯s beauty. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, what brings you here?¡± she asked, deliberately ignoring Brenna.


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    Ethan had no patience for her games. Sensing her intent to stir trouble, he turned to Brenna with a warm smile. ¡°Let me show you around. If anything¡¯s not to your liking, I¡¯ll have it fixed.¡±


    Minna¡¯s pride felt trampled. She could hear ni and the cleaning staff behind her stifling giggles, ridiculing her.


    The shame seared her like a hot iron. Her resentment for Brenna deepened.


    Just then, ni greeted Ethan and Brenna cheerfully.


    Ethan nodded, introducing her to Brenna, saying, ¡°This is my secretary, ni Boyd. You¡¯ve met her before.¡±


    Minna¡¯s humiliation intensified. Ethan¡¯s polite, easy tone with others, contrasted with his cold dismissal of her, cut like a de.


    Unable to endure it, Minna fled to the restroom.


    Brenna¡¯s calm voice carried across the open space. ¡°Hi, I remember you. You handle refreshments, right? I¡¯ll be working here from now on, so I might need your help sometimes.¡±


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 Chapter 651

    ?Chapter 651:


    ni replied with effortless poise, ¡°It¡¯ll be a pleasure to work with you.¡±


    Ethan led Brenna through the offices, pointing out two managerial ones¡ªonerger, one smaller. ¡°The 58th floor¡¯syout is identical,¡± he said. ¡°Arrange it however you want. Each floor has its own pantry and restrooms. Dedicated housekeeping covers both, so you won¡¯t need to worry about upkeep.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve really thought of everything,¡± Brenna said. She was thoroughly impressed with the offices¡ªthey were expansive, sleek, and elegantly designed. The desks were generously sized, the sofas were crafted from premium leather, and even the nts and decor were meticulously chosen.


    ¡°The cafeteria¡¯s on the second and third floors,¡± Ethan said. ¡°Free meals for all staff, your team included. We¡¯ve got a wide variety of food options.¡±


    The open workspace featured nearly two hundred workstations, neatly organized into sections,plete with printers, shredders, and other vital equipment.


    ¡°This is massivepared to my old office space,¡± Brenna said, taking it all in. She did a quick mental tally. With just over a hundred employees now, she could scale her team tenfold and still have space to spare.


    After a pause, she added, ¡°One floor is already enough for my team.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not giving yourself enough credit,¡± Ethan replied, his tone earnest. ¡°With your talent and reputation, your team will balloon tenfold in no time. I would bet the two floors will be packed with your employees within two years.¡±


    Brenna nodded lightly. ¡°You¡¯re likely right. When I was trapped under the Barrett family, I barely had a moment to grow my business. They drained me dry, and my studio justnguished.¡±


    Just then, a piercing scream suddenly echoed from the restroom. Ethan frowned, instantly suspecting Minna was staging another bid for his attention.


    In the elevator, Brenna nced up at Ethan, her voice icy and edged with irritation. ¡°Miss Davies seems to be in some distress. Aren¡¯t you going to check on her?¡±


    A faint spark of hostility flickered in her eyes, her anger barely masked. Since Elsa had pushed Minna onto Ethan, surely he could reassign her elsewhere. Perhaps send her on an extended business trip?


    Brenna refused to believe he was powerless to remove her.


    Ethan¡¯s expression softened as he met Brenna¡¯s gaze. The tension in his brow eased, reced by a subtle, indulgent smile. He could see it¡ªBrenna was jealous. It was the clearest sign she cared about him.


    A quiet joy surged within him. He pressed the elevator¡¯s close button with a casual flick and said, ¡°Even if she were dying, I wouldn¡¯t spare her a nce.¡±


    Brenna huffed, shooting him a mock re. ¡°What are you smiling at?¡± she snapped, though inwardly, she was pleased with Ethan. No matter what schemes Elsa concocted, Ethan only loved her.


    Outside the restroom, ni and five cleaners were bustling about, gearing up to polish desks and office equipment.


    Martha McGill, an older cleaner with a warm spirit, halted when she heard the sound from the restroom. Worry etched across her features as she spoke up. ¡°ni, did you catch that noise? Should we go see what¡¯s wrong? You all keep working; I¡¯ll go take a look.¡±


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 Chapter 652

    ?Chapter 652:


    ni gave a softugh. She knew Minna¡¯s antics all too well. ¡°Don¡¯t bother; Minna is just stirring up drama,¡± she said.


    But Martha¡¯s worry lingered. That scream had sounded genuinely miserable. As the cleaning team¡¯s leader, she felt a duty to act. She cared about people and was always ready to help when someone was in need.


    ¡°I¡¯ll take a quick look,¡± she said, going inside the restroom. The restroom had multiple stalls, and Martha couldn¡¯t pinpoint the one Minna was in. ¡°Is everything alright in here?¡± she called out.


    In one of the stalls, Minna had been waiting, her n already in motion. She sat theatrically on the toilet, clutching her ankle in a dramatic pose. She was betting on whether Ethan cared about her even a little bit.


    As thepany¡¯s CEO, wouldn¡¯t he at least check on an employee injured on the job?


    In Minna¡¯s mind, if Ethan stormed into the women¡¯s restroom, even out of mere concern for an employee, it would prove he wasn¡¯t entirely indifferent to her.


    Hearing footsteps, Minna¡¯s hopes red. Even if it wasn¡¯t Ethan, the person could fetch him for her.


    ¡°I¡¯m in here,¡± she called out.


    Martha followed the voice and found Minna gripping her ankle, which appeared swollen.


    ¡°Oh, goodness,¡± Martha eximed. ¡°What happened? Is it bad?¡±


    Minna¡¯s eyes darted past Martha, searching for Ethan, but he was nowhere in sight. None of the other secretaries or cleaners were here either.


    Frustration and bitterness churned within her. Hadn¡¯t anyone heard her cry out? How could her coworkers be so cold as to not even check on her? Especially ni¡ªthey shared an office. How could she be so heartless?


    Minna¡¯s resentment toward ni deepened.


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    She also looked down on Martha. She believed Martha seemed tidy andpetent, yet she was doing such a lowly job, cleaning.


    Minna¡¯s tone turned sharp and impatient. ¡°I¡¯m fine. I just twisted my ankle by ident. Can you go get Mr. Mitchell for me?¡±


    Martha blinked, puzzled. Minna seemed like a smart person, but her request was utterly ridiculous.


    ¡°This is the women¡¯s restroom. It¡¯s not proper for Mr. Mitchell toe in here,¡± Martha said.


    Inwardly, she saw the truth. She could tell Minna was doing this on purpose.


    No wonder ni had told her to ignore Minna earlier.


    Minna, undeterred, exaggerated her pained expression, convinced that the more pitiful she looked, the more others would want to help her. ¡°It¡¯s fine! Mr. Mitchell¡¯s mother already sees me as her future daughter-inw. Just ask Mr. Mitchell toe, and he will do it. Hurry!¡± she said.


    Martha nearly burst outughing at the absurdity. This girl was delusional. She was expecting the CEO to barge into the women¡¯s restroom for her.


    Still, Martha¡¯s kindness held firm. She kept her tone gentle. ¡°Let¡¯s get you out of here first. There¡¯s a first aid station in the building with ointment and bandages. I¡¯ll take you there.¡±


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 Chapter 653

    ?Chapter 653:


    Minna¡¯s frustration spiked. Was this woman ignoring her or just obstinate? Why wasn¡¯t she going to get Ethan here for her?


    ¡°No!¡± Minna snapped, her voice biting. ¡°Just get Mr. Mitchell! Stop dawdling.¡±


    Martha¡¯s patience finally frayed. She prided herself on being a kind person, but she was no one¡¯s servant. ¡°Just wait,¡± she said coolly, stepping out.


    Outside, there was no trace of Ethan or Brenna. Martha nced around, shrugged, and returned to her cleaning without another word.


    Minna waited in the restroom, her anger mounting with each passing minute. Eventually, she hobbled out, only to find everyone else absorbed in their tasks,pletely ignoring her. Ethan was long gone.


    Enraged, Minna dropped her act. She marched up to Martha and barked, ¡°I told you to get Mr. Mitchell! Why are you still standing here?¡±


    Minna was being so outrageously condescending that even Martha, the most easy-going member of the team, had finally had enough.


    The way Minna talked to her¡ªthe snide tone, that air of superiority¡ªgrated on her.


    Sure, Martha didn¡¯t have an impressive title or a six-figure paycheck, but she was still the supervisor of the janitorial department, managing nearly three hundred staff. And just this morning, Rex from the executive secretary¡¯s office had called her directly to request a crew to clean the 57th and 58th floors, making it clear that everything needed to be pristine.


    That alone told Martha everything she needed to know¡ªwhoever was moving in was a big figure. Rex hadn¡¯t just made the call himself; he¡¯d also sent ni and a new secretary to help coordinate.


    So she¡¯d brought her A-game. When the secretary, Minna, got injured, naturally, Martha checked in on her. But what she hadn¡¯t expected was for that same woman to suddenly im she was Ethan¡¯s arranged date. Well, that was pure absurdity. As if someone like Ethan would ever need an arranged date. Who in their right mind would buy that?


    Martha was displeased with Minna. Her great manners didn¡¯t grant others permission to push her around.


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    ¡°You look perfectly fine to me,¡± she said, shooting Minna a sharp nce. ¡°So all that wailing earlier, what was that? Just a performance?¡±


    Minna¡¯s face twisted with rage. A janitor, of all people, dared to speak to her like this? She wasn¡¯t just anyone; she would be Ethan¡¯s wife in the future.


    ¡°How dare you treat me like this?¡± she snapped, her voice sharp with outrage. ¡°Do you have any idea who I am? I could go straight to Mr. Mitchell and have you fired.¡±


    Out of the corner of her eye, she caught ni and a few cleaners stiflingughs.


    Their amusement hit like a p. She was furious.


    But Martha stood firm, arms crossed, gaze unflinching. ¡°And how would you prefer I treat you?¡± she said, her tone dripping with sarcasm. ¡°Should I roll out the red carpet and address you as the future Mrs. Mitchell?¡±


    ni observed the scene, silently admiring Martha for her sharp tongue.


    Minna¡¯s face turned red as she stumbled for words.


    She had spent days unting her supposed status as Ethan¡¯s future wife, but he never admitted that. He was even parading Brenna around in public, rubbing salt into her wounded pride.


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 Chapter 654

    ?Chapter 654:


    She couldn¡¯t even find someone to vent her anger on properly.


    At that moment, the elevator chimed softly, and the doors parted. Ethan, Brenna, and Patrick emerged side by side. Patrick strolled between them, clutching their hands. They looked like a family of three.


    The sight made Minna¡¯s blood boil.


    Ethan turned to Brenna, his voice calm. ¡°So, have you picked a floor yet?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s and Minna¡¯s eyes locked for a split second¡ªMinna¡¯s brimming with malice, Brenna¡¯s calm. With an easy shrug, Brenna answered, ¡°Either works. I¡¯ll choose the 58th floor.¡±


    Ethan shed a warm grin. ¡°Why don¡¯t you move your office up to the 99th floor? We could work side by side.¡±


    Brenna arched an eyebrow, cutting him a sideways nce. ¡°If we¡¯re stuck together 24/7, we¡¯ll be sick of each other in no time. A little space¡¯s probably better.¡±


    The three of them stepped out of the elevator. Brenna swept her gaze over theyout, already rearranging furniture in her head and mapping out her ideal setup.


    Right at that moment, Brenna¡¯s phone rang. She walked toward the window to answer the call.


    Seizing the chance, Minna sprang into action. She hobbled toward Ethan with exaggerated effort, groaning theatrically, ¡°Mr. Mitchell, I twisted my ankle. It hurts so much.¡±


    She had been through military training and had pushed through worse injuries without flinching. But this wasn¡¯t about pain; it was about pride and persistence. Men like Ethan didn¡¯te around twice, and she wanted to try her best to win his heart.


    Before Ethan could respond, Patrick tugged at his sleeve and looked at him with wide, innocent eyes. ¡°If she¡¯s really hurt,¡± he said loudly, ¡°shouldn¡¯t she go to the hospital or something? Why¡¯s sheing to you for help?¡±


    His words stabbed through the air with brutal rity. Minna¡¯s cheeks flushed a deep red, humiliation boiling beneath her skin. It was bad enough to be ridiculed by her colleagues, but now, even a little kid had the nerve to mock her?


    ???? ?????? ???????? ???????????? ¡ª ???????? ???? ?????????¦Í??????©q??????


    She shot Patrick a sharp re. But as she really took him in¡ªhis perfectly styled hair, his expensive little outfit¡ªa bold, ridiculous thought gripped her. Was this kid Ethan¡¯s illegitimate son?


    Thinking that, she held back from scolding Patrick.


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell, please help me,¡± she said, her voice cracking with desperation. ¡°My ankle really hurts.¡±


    Ethan didn¡¯t so much as nce her way. Instead, he replied to Patrick¡¯s earlier question withzy indifference, ¡°She is a secretary who pulled strings to get into thepany. Now she¡¯s trying to throw herself at me.¡±


    He said that so bluntly, not caring that Minna was within earshot.


    He was clearly humiliating her.


    Minna¡¯s cheeks med. She halted just a few steps away from Ethan, stricken by humiliation.


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 Chapter 655

    ?Chapter 655:


    Patrick swept a slow, scornful gaze over Minna. Then, with a snort, he said, ¡°She¡¯s not even good-looking. Howe she dares to throw herself at you?¡±


    ¡°You!¡± Minna snapped. Dropping the limp like an act she had forgotten, she spun on her heel and fled toward the stairwell, her cheeks burning with shame.


    Halfway up, she sat down on a step, burying her face in her hands as sobs wracked her shoulders. When she stopped crying, she yanked out her phone and dialed Elsa. Between sniffles, she dramatically told Elsa what had happened.


    At that moment, Elsa was in the middle of teaching a vocal performance ss at the university.


    ¡°Ethan is out of line!¡± she snapped into the receiver, barely lowering her voice. ¡°Don¡¯t worry; I¡¯ll make him apologize to you soon.¡±


    In truth, Elsa thought Minna was a bit stupid. She couldn¡¯t even handle such a small matter.


    Minna perked up after beingforted. ¡°Brenna transferred her entire studio into the Mitchell Group¡¯s building. Now she¡¯s going to be around Mr. Mitchell every day. You¡¯ve got to do something to kick her out!¡±


    Elsa hadn¡¯t heard a word about this before, and the revtion made her angry. ¡°That shameless woman,¡± she spat, her voice thick with emotion. ¡°I will put her in her ce!¡±


    After ending the call, Brenna turned to Ethan and asked, ¡°Ethan, did Jayceon get into a car crash?¡±


    Ethan froze for a moment, caught off guard. ¡°Yeah, how did you hear about it?¡± He rubbed the back of his neck, surprised. ¡°It happened two days ago. Jayceon said his brother caused it. He hit his head hard¡ªhas a brain bleed and needs urgent surgery to ease the pressure. Plus, he broke three ribs and both legs. He¡¯s in rough shape, probably stuck in bed for months.¡±


    Ethan had found out the night of the crash and raced to the hospital. But knowing Brenna and Jayceon weren¡¯t on good terms, he had kept it from her.


    Brenna gave a vague hum, her lips pursed. Good riddance, she thought bitterly. Jayceon had iting.


    M?§Ô? ??????? ?? ??l????l?.???


    She said, ¡°His dad called me, practically begging me to sell some medicine for the Russell family. Said he would pay anything. He kept apologizing and sounded desperate.¡±


    Ethan had heard that Jayceon was still unconscious and in urgent need of thetest cardiovascr medicine avable in the country. Jayceon¡¯s father had also pleaded with him to talk to Brenna about selling some pills, promising to pay any price if she would agree.


    Ethan knew Brenna couldn¡¯t stand the Russell family¡ªnot after they had humiliated her at Amy¡¯s birthday party. That sting wasn¡¯t something she would ever forget.


    As her boyfriend, Ethan didn¡¯t want to push her into anything she didn¡¯t want to do. So, he hadn¡¯t mentioned the matter to Brenna. Ethan had no intention ofplicating things for Brenna. ¡°If selling isn¡¯t an option for you, just let it go. Dealing with the Russells is always a headache. I¡¯ll figure out a way to get the medication from abroad for them if ites to that.¡±


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 Chapter 656

    ?Chapter 656:


    Brenna¡¯s heart warmed at how thoughtful Ethan was; he always took her feelings into ount.


    She said, ¡°It¡¯s alright. I¡¯ll sell the medicine. It doesn¡¯t matter who buys the medicine from me. But if they want it, they¡¯ll need to pay a lot. I¡¯ll get in touch with Christopher from the Pierce family to arrange delivery.¡±


    Overhearing the conversation, Patrick finally pieced things together and asked with worry, ¡°Was my Dad in a car ident?¡±


    Despite his mother¡¯s dislike for Jayceon, Patrick believed Jayceon had always been kind to him, spending time with him and even purchasing an entire apartment just for his toys.


    ¡°Yes. Do you want to visit him?¡± Brenna said softly, nodding.


    ¡°I do,¡± Patrick answered, wanting to rush to Jayceon¡¯s side immediately. Turning to Ethan, he asked, ¡°Is my dad hurt badly?¡±


    Ethan hesitated, unwilling to burden Patrick with the full truth.


    Jayceon remained unconscious after surgery to relieve brain hemorrhaging, still in critical condition. Otherwise, Jayceon¡¯s father wouldn¡¯t have been so desperate, pleading with Brenna over the phone and offering apologies.


    ¡°Thank you, Brenna,¡± Ethan said earnestly, appreciating her willingness to help, not making things harder for him. ¡°I¡¯ll take Patrick to see him now. The medicine¡¯sing from the Pierce family, correct?¡±


    Brenna realized why Ellie hadn¡¯t been able to contact Jayceon recently. Though she wasn¡¯t fond of Jayceon, he was Patrick¡¯s father and someone Ellie had once loved. Brenna couldn¡¯t just stand by and do nothing.


    She responded calmly, ¡°Yes, Christopher¡¯s at Shirie Hospital. Go ahead; I¡¯ve got things covered here. Joe and Tommy will arrive soon to lend a hand.¡±


    ¡°All right, we¡¯ll leave now,¡± Ethan said, quickly leaving with Patrick.


    Momentster, Minna emerged from the stairwell, scanning the area and feeling a surge of satisfaction at Ethan¡¯s absence. As long as he wasn¡¯t with Brenna, she was content.


    ?????????????? ???????????? ????: g????????¦Í??????©q?????


    She knew Elsa would never permit Brenna to stay at the Mitchell Group building. Within days, Brenna would be kicked out of here.


    ni, fed up, couldn¡¯t tolerate Minna¡¯s behavior any longer. Everyone was busy cleaning, so why was Minna an exception?


    ¡°Minna, get moving!¡± ni called out. ¡°Why are you just standing there?¡±


    Minna snapped back, ¡°Who do you think you are, giving me orders? You¡¯re not my boss. I¡¯m the CEO¡¯s chosen match, and soon, I¡¯ll be his wife. You¡¯ve got no business telling me what to do!¡±


    Minna knew Ethan hadn¡¯t publicly recognized her, but she was certain that with Elsa¡¯s determination to separate him from Brenna, she would be his wife sooner orter.


    ni, enraged, dropped her cleaning cloth and approached her. ¡°Still lost in your fantasies? Open your eyes; this is a workce, not your home! You need to work!¡±


    ¡°Mind your own business,¡± Minna shot back, her arrogance evident.


    ni, though not Minna¡¯s supervisor, knew exactly what to do to put Minna in line. Furious, she stormed off toin about Minna, dialing Rex.


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 Chapter 657

    ?Chapter 657:


    Soon after, Rex appeared downstairs.


    ni murmured something to him near the elevator, and he marched over to Minna, who was engrossed in her phone.


    ¡°Weren¡¯t you told to help clean? The Mitchell Group doesn¡¯t pay people to loaf around. If you¡¯re not going to work, you can pack up your things and leave.¡± Rex had no patience for Minna and didn¡¯t bother hiding his disdain.


    Minna, feeling slightly uneasy, said, ¡°There¡¯s no need to clean here. I¡¯ve already spoken to the CEO¡¯s mother; Brenna will be out of here soon.¡±


    ¡°Bold words for someone like you. You think you can oust the CEO¡¯s girlfriend?¡± Without hesitation, Rex pulled out his phone to inform Ethan of Minna¡¯s behavior.


    Just as Ethan¡¯s car rolled to a halt outside the hospital, his phone buzzed with a message from Rex. He nced at the screen, and his already stormy mood darkened further. He muttered, ¡°Does Elsa really have to poke her nose into everything? Will this ever end?¡±


    His frustration with Elsa¡¯s constant need to control every aspect of his life had reached its peak. Although the situation was annoying, he didn¡¯t consider it a major problem¡ªjust an inconvenience. No matter how hard Elsa pushed, he wasn¡¯t about to give in. If he were that easy to bend, he would have yielded to his mother¡¯s will and joined the military long ago.


    He scowled, staring at the message for a moment before an idea suddenly sparked in his mind. After parking the car, Neville noticed Ethan hadn¡¯t moved and said, ¡°Sir, we have arrived.¡±


    Ethan responded with a quiet hum and locked eyes with Neville. ¡°I need to make a call first.¡±


    He dialed a familiar number, fully aware that his grandmother¡¯s movements had slowed to a crawl these days. It would take time for her to answer the phone. At eighty-seven, it was impressive enough that she managed to take care of herself without troubling her children.


    When no answer came, he ended the call and waited patiently. Two minutester, he tried again, and this time the call was answered. His tone warmed considerably, a genuine smile curling at the corners of his lips. ¡°Grandma, how have you been? I miss you.¡±


    Discover more


    Bel¨¦n Navarro had spent years living with Ethan¡¯s uncle¡¯s family, settling into a peaceful andfortable life. Always consumed by work, Ethan could only manage to visit her once or twice a year. Even so, he made sure to send her gifts and call her frequently.


    When he and Kenny were kids, Bel¨¦n adored them equally. But after they started school, their visits became less frequent, limited mostly to big holidays. As they grew up and got jobs, those visits became even rarer. Yet the bond between them only grew stronger. Their conversations became more natural, and they could understand each other without needing many words.


    As Ethan¡¯s uncle often liked to say, ¡°Bel¨¦n loves her twin grandsons more than her other grandchildren, maybe even more than her own children.¡±


    Elsa used to serve in the military and always had a packed schedule, so she rarely had time to visit her mother. Even after retiring recently, she still hadn¡¯t made the trip.


    But Ethan knew how much Elsa cared about her mother. She always told him that once she retired, she would make up for the time she missed with Bel¨¦n. And now that she finally had the time, wasn¡¯t this the perfect chance?


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 Chapter 658

    ?Chapter 658:


    ¡°How have you beentely?¡± Ethan asked gently.


    Though frail, Bel¨¦n¡¯s voice bubbled with excitement from the other end of the line. ¡°Is that you, Ethan? You little rascal, how long has it been since youst called? Have you forgotten about me?¡±


    ¡°How could I ever forget you, Grandma? I sent you a package justst week. Did you get it?¡± Ethan chuckled, already thinking about how to guide the conversation to his real reason for calling.


    Bel¨¦n let out a heartyugh, clearly in good spirits, her fingers slowly gliding over her cat¡¯s soft fur. ¡°I got it. You know what I like. That cake you sent was delicious. Tell me, when will you finallye visit me?¡±


    ¡°How about this weekend? I have a girlfriend now, and I would really love for you to meet her.¡± Ethan carefully steered the conversation toward his objective, fully aware that his sharp-minded grandmother would instantly detect something was up.


    Bel¨¦n¡¯s spirits lifted even more, but she knew her daughter like the back of her hand. Elsa was strong-willed from an early age and always demanded that the family do things her way. When Ethan was younger, he often shed with her and ended up in trouble for standing his ground. Bel¨¦n knew Ethan would often flee to her house to escape Elsa¡¯s strict rules every summer and winter break.


    While Bel¨¦n didn¡¯t know what Ethan¡¯s girlfriend looked like or what she did for a living, she knew Elsa wouldn¡¯t approve of any woman Ethan picked himself. ¡°Oh, I see. Tell me, Ethan¡ªdid you pick this girl yourself, or is she someone your mom chose for you?¡±


    Ethanughed softly. ¡°Grandma, you are still as sharp as a tack! I chose to be with her myself. When have I ever listened to my mother?¡±


    Bel¨¦n let out a knowing hum. She had always known that Elsa and Ethan never quite saw eye to eye, each trying to control the other. That would never change.


    ¡°I had a feeling. Let me guess¡ªyour mother isn¡¯t too fond of your girlfriend, is she?¡±


    ?????? ?????????? ???? g???????¦Í??????£®?????


    Ethan replied honestly, ¡°You¡¯re right. She is on her way to give my girlfriend a hard time right now. Grandma, I need your help. Please don¡¯t let her scare my girlfriend off.¡±


    ¡°Leave it to me. But you muste to visit me this weekend, and you better bring your girlfriend so I can meet her. To officially wee her, I will give her a gold bracelet.¡±


    They chatted for a little longer before Ethan couldn¡¯t help but say, ¡°Grandma, please call Mom right away and stop her from bothering my girlfriend. It wasn¡¯t easy for me to find someone I like.¡±


    As Ethan ended the call, Neville nced back at him with an amused grin, shing a thumbs-up. He believed Ethan was very smart for doing this.


    Ethan didn¡¯t rush to get out of the car. Instead, with a cheer in his voice, he said, ¡°My mom might not have spent much time with my grandmother¡ªshe has visited her even less than I have¡ªbut she truly wants to be a good daughter. With Grandma on my side, there¡¯s nothing that can¡¯t be done. I¡¯ll bet my mother won¡¯t get a chance to bother Brenna anytime soon.¡±


    ¡°That was pure genius, sir!¡± Neville remarked.


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 Chapter 659

    ?Chapter 659:


    Stepping out of the car, Elsa clutched her purse and fixed her eyes on the Mitchell Group¡¯s looming front doors. From somewhere inside her bag, a muffled ringtone buzzed to life. With each step toward the building, her thoughts tangled around one central mission¡ªteaching Brenna a lesson. She would kick Brenna out of the building. She didn¡¯t want her anywhere near her son.


    Several tactics shed through her mind, but none felt quite right yet. She had no intention of causing a spectacle. That wasn¡¯t her style. She just wanted her disdain toward Brenna to be clear, sharp, and public. She nned to strip Brenna of dignity in front of everyone at the Mitchell Group.


    She didn¡¯t just want Brenna gone. She wanted Brenna to feel humiliated enough to leave Ethan on her own. She had once been made a fool in front of the Russell family because of Brenna, and that wound still festered. Now, it was Brenna¡¯s turn to feel that same burn. But that wasn¡¯t the end of it. She had every intention of destroying Brenna¡¯s reputation in the industry, too.


    She reached into her bag, pulled out the ringing phone, and paused mid-step to take the call. ¡°Mom?¡±


    Bel¨¦n¡¯s shaky voice crackled on the line, ¡°Oh dear¡­ I¡¯m not feeling well. Your brother¡¯s not at home. Could youe over now?¡±


    A jolt of panic tightened in Elsa¡¯s chest. ¡°Mom, what¡¯s going on? Are you okay? Do I need to get an ambnce for you?¡±


    At eighty-seven, Bel¨¦n had the kind of health most people envied, but age had its risks. Elsa was still worried about her. ¡°Don¡¯t panic. I¡¯m calling for help right now,¡± she said, anxiety rising.


    Bel¨¦n knew how to put on an act better than most actors. Her voice softened, just the right touch of frailty. ¡°I¡¯m just dizzy. And my fingers are tingling. Maybe it¡¯s my blood pressure acting up again. Juste over.¡±


    The Mitchell Group headquarters stood just ahead, its ss panels gleaming in the sun. Elsa stared at the building, her fingers twitching with the urge to storm inside. But then, she thought of Bel¨¦n. If something happened to her mother while she was busy confronting Brenna, she would live with regret forever.


    After thinking for a while, she made a decision. She turned back, slipped behind the wheel, and drove toward Bel¨¦n¡¯s house.


    g?ln¦Ò¦Í????s is your escape to fiction


    There would always be another chance to teach Brenna a lesson, and she needed to make sure her mother¡¯s health was fine now.


    At her desk, Brenna kept her eyes on the Harper Group¡¯s stock chart. The numbers had recovered steadily over the past few days, even inching above where they had been before the crisis hit. Still, it wasn¡¯t enough to put her at ease. Spencer had poured in too much capital to settle for moderate gains. For the returns to match his gamble, the price had to rise at least ten percent more.


    Brenna was weighing her next steps when a knock at the door broke her concentration. Joe walked in first, carrying tworge bags. Tommy and Greta followed right behind him, also holding bags.


    A spark of excitement crossed Joe¡¯s face. He had just toured the new workspace, which,pared to their old setup, felt like a different world. Being surrounded by polished interiors and high-end equipment gave him a thrill. On top of that, he now had his own office. He ced the bags down on the table. ¡°Brenna, I picked up all the pastries you wanted.¡±


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 Chapter 660

    Chapter 660:


    Brenna raised her head and nodded. ¡°Perfect. Thanks. Just leave them here. Go and get to work. We¡¯ll need everything ready by this afternoon. And we can start working here officially.¡±


    Joe lit up with a grin and exchanged a look with Tommy. ¡°Think we should celebrate the big move a little?¡± he asked.


    Tommy nodded right away, clearly all for it. ¡°Totally, Brenna! We¡¯vee a long way¡ªfrom that cramped studio to a proper office. We¡¯ve got to celebrate.¡±


    After thinking it over for a beat, Brenna gave a small nod. ¡°You¡¯re right. Go ahead and n something. I¡¯ll take care of the cost.¡±


    The idea had already been tossed around between Joe and Tommy on the way here. Both had agreed that this was a moment worth celebrating. Seven years had gone by since the team had firste together, and this move marked a serious upgrade. It wasn¡¯t just a change of address; it felt like a turning point. From now on, they figured the name should reflect that. They would tell everyone they were working for apany instead of a studio.


    ¡°In that case, we¡¯re going all out. None of that budget snack stuff. Let¡¯s get the good things,¡± Joe said.


    Tommy nodded in agreement and said, ¡°The team¡¯s been grinding hardte nights, back-to-back deadlines. Brenna, what do you think about treating everyone to a meal tonight?¡±


    Their enthusiasm was contagious. Brenna hadn¡¯t thought much of the office move earlier. But seeing how much it meant to the team made her reconsider.


    ¡°All right, pick a ce you like. Don¡¯t worry about the cost; I¡¯ll cover everything,¡± she said.


    Joe and Tommy nodded and left, smiles stretching wide as they made their way to their new offices. Their offices weren¡¯t asrge as Brenna¡¯s or Thiago¡¯s¡ªonly about half the size¡ªbut they still felt spacious. At fifty square meters, they matched the kind of offices given to executives at the Mitchell Group.


    Greta arrived a bitte, the smile never leaving her face. She hadn¡¯t even been with the team for two full months, and now thepany had moved to the famous Mitchell Group building. She was delighted by this.


    Your next story starts here: g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s


    She said, ¡°Brenna, do you think we should invite Mr. Mitchell to dinner tonight? We are using his building, after all. It might be nice to thank him properly. And since he¡¯s your boyfriend, I bet he¡¯s happy for you.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure if Ethan will be avable. One of his close friends was in an ident, so he is at the hospital now,¡± Brenna said calmly. She didn¡¯t overthink the situation, nor did she see Greta as a potential rival in love. To her, Greta was merely a young woman fresh from graduation, not yet seasoned by life¡¯s real storms.


    Brenna couldn¡¯t help but think that Greta¡¯s suggestion made sense. ¡°I¡¯ll give it a shot and ask him.¡±


    Brenna eyed the pastries and cakes on the table and, noticing Greta was about to head out, asked her to summon the cleaning staff along with ni and Minna.


    Greta nodded and turned around, catching sight of a few cleaners heading toward the elevator.


    ¡°Hold on!¡± Greta rushed over, quickly spotting the head of the cleaning staff and a secretary by their manner. However, Minna was already gone, and only one person from the secretarial department remained. Greta couldn¡¯t tell if the person was ni or Minna.


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    .<hr>


    Message from Noah: Great Sunday for you dear readers, sorry for being a bitte. God loves you and Noah whishes you all the best. ?(^?^ )? ¡ä-


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 Chapter 661

    ?Chapter 661:


    shing a polite smile, she said gently, ¡°Hello, you are one of the secretaries here, right? Could you please tell me your name?¡±


    ni replied with a smooth, professional smile, ¡°Hello! I¡¯m ni from the CEO¡¯s secretarial office. Is there something I can help you with?¡±


    Greta replied, ¡°Hi, I¡¯m Greta from the Night Studio¡¯s design department. Ms. Harper would like to see you. Oh, and by any chance, do you know where Minna is?¡±


    ni shook her head. ¡°No clue. She hasn¡¯t been working much, and I don¡¯t know where she¡¯s wandered off to.¡±


    Greta didn¡¯t push further and passed on the message. ¡°Martha, ni, Ms. Harper wants you and your team to go to her office. She needs to talk to you about something.¡±


    Greta couldn¡¯t help but like ni. She was effortlessly charming and easy-going. Moreover, she worked in the CEO¡¯s secretarial department. If she could forge a friendship with ni, wouldn¡¯t that get her one step closer to Ethan?


    Meanwhile, Martha, keenly aware of Brenna¡¯s status, assumed there was more work to be done. Without a fuss, she set her cleaning supplies aside and motioned for her team to follow her into Brenna¡¯s office.


    ¡°Hello, Ms. Harper. Is there something we can help with? Did we miss anything that needs another round of cleaning?¡± Martha asked.


    Brenna walked toward Martha, carrying tworge bags. ¡°Thank you again for your help today. I know this wasn¡¯t part of your regr tasks, and I really appreciate you going above and beyond for me. Please, take these and share them with the team. It¡¯s just a small token of my appreciation.¡±


    Martha epted the bags without hesitation, her smile genuine. ¡°Thank you, Ms. Harper. Honestly, we were just doing our job. You¡¯re too generous.¡±


    She noticed the fancy bakerybel and instantly realized the goodies inside the bags must be expensive. It wasn¡¯t every day that someone of Brenna¡¯s stature treated the cleaning crew with such genuine respect. Everyone on the team had a good impression of Brenna because of this.


    Once Martha and her team had exited, ni stepped into the office. Aware of Brenna¡¯s importance to Ethan, ni was especially courteous toward her.


    ???????? ???????????? ???? ?????????????????????????


    Brenna handed her another bag from the table with a warm smile. ¡°Take this. You¡¯ve worked hard today. It¡¯s nothing fancy, just a little something.¡±


    After exchanging a few pleasantries, ni excused herself.


    Meanwhile, Minna had been idling impatiently in the lobby on the ground floor of the Mitchell Group headquarters, waiting for Elsa. More than an hour had passed. She watched as groups of people bustled about, hauling things back and forth into the elevators, yet Elsa was still nowhere in sight.


    Growing impatient, Minna pulled out her phone and called Elsa.


    Elsa was busy taking care of her mother.


    Bel¨¦n was particr about cleanliness. Her home was always spotless. Elsa¡¯s brother had thoughtfully hired a housekeeper to ensure Bel¨¦n¡¯s daily needs were meticulously met.


    Elsa couldn¡¯t help feeling frustrated after being lied to by Bel¨¦n. She understood her mother simply wanted to see her, but she still felt somewhat manipted. She had wanted toin about this. But the moment Bel¨¦n saw her, she unleashed a rant, scolding Elsa for not visiting since retiring.


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 Chapter 662

    ?Chapter 662:


    Elsa didn¡¯t know how to respond. Given that it had been nearly six months since herst visit, she knew she was in the wrong. All she could do was try hard tofort Bel¨¦n and promise to drop by more often.


    After venting her frustrations, Bel¨¦n abruptly changed the subject. She suddenly craved ravioli. Elsa quickly headed out to buy ingredients for the dish.


    She returned a short whileter. ¡°Mom, how about mushrooms and beef ravioli?¡±


    This time, Bel¨¦n didn¡¯t make things difficult for her. She walked over to the bag and took a look inside. ¡°They look fresh enough. Go ahead and wash them first. Then you can make me the ravioli. And don¡¯t forget¡ªmake a big batch and freeze it, just like we always do. That way, I can have homemade ravioli whenever I feel like it. Since you¡¯re so busy and don¡¯te around much, I won¡¯t have to bother you every time I want some.¡±


    Elsa didn¡¯t know how to respond, but she couldn¡¯t bring herself to argue with her mother. She said softly, ¡°Mom, let¡¯s just make enough for today. Frozen ravioli never tastes as good anyway.¡±


    But Bel¨¦n wasn¡¯t having it. ¡°Who says it doesn¡¯t taste as good? I eat frozen ravioli all the time. You¡¯re never around. You were always swamped with work, and now that you¡¯re retired, you still don¡¯t visit me. At least with frozen ravioli, I can pretend you¡¯re here. You¡¯re always chasing your career and can¡¯t even rx after retiring. Instead, you¡¯re off teaching at the university. Forget it. Don¡¯t let someone like me hold you back.¡±


    Brenna was finalizing her analysis of the Harper Group¡¯s stock performance and outlining a reorganization strategy when a knock interrupted her focus. Without lifting her head, she said, ¡°Come in.¡±


    A group of people stepped inside. Leading them was Rex, nked by a sharply dressed man in his forties, exuding polished professionalism. Trailing behind them were Greta and several male employees, each carrying items from the old studio¡ªpotted nts, stacks of documents, books, and assorted boxes.


    Everyone moved with purpose, quietly tending to their tasks without disturbing one another.


    Magic begins at g ¦Á? ¦Ç¦Ò ¦Í?? ??s


    Rex gestured to the man. ¡°Ms. Harper, this is Brock Reed, the Mitchell Group¡¯s chief legal counsel. The CEO instructed us to prepare a lease agreement, offering the 57th and 58th floors of the Mitchell Group building to our studio for an annual rent of one dor, with a hundred-year term. Please review it, and if it¡¯s satisfactory, sign here.¡±


    Brenna nced at Brock, noting the seasoned confidence in his demeanor and a brief flicker of appreciation in his eyes when he looked at her. She motioned to the chairs opposite her. ¡°Please, sit. Your boss really thinks of everything. I was just about to bring this up with him myself.¡±


    Taking the agreement, Brenna scanned its concise pages; the terms were straightforward and clear. She had already mulled over this matter. upying two floors of the Mitchell Group¡¯s building without a formal agreement felt wrong, both legally and morally. That just wasn¡¯t how she operated, and she refused to give anyone grounds to doubt her principles, especially not Elsa, Ethan¡¯s mother.


    Before Brenna could say anything, Rex spoke again. ¡°Ms. Harper, after the incident with Mr. Mitchell¡¯s mother causing a stir at the office, it put you in an awkward spot. Mr. Mitchell suggested this lease to ensure his mother can¡¯t stir up trouble for you again.¡±


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 Chapter 663

    ?Chapter 663:


    Brenna¡¯s lips curved into a faint smile. ¡°Smart move. This is perfect.¡±


    But when her eyesnded on the rent¡ªone dor a year¡ªshe paused. ¡°One dor annually? Isn¡¯t that a bit too low?¡±


    Rex and Brock chuckled. Brock, already briefed by Rex on Brenna¡¯s achievements while drafting the agreement, held Brenna in high regard. He knew she was exceptional; otherwise, Ethan wouldn¡¯t have fallen for her.


    Brock exined, ¡°Mr. Mitchell initially proposed a penny a year. I convinced him to make it a dor. He even said a dor per floor per year was too much. He is really looking out for you.¡±


    Even Brenna, typically stoic and reserved, couldn¡¯t suppress a softugh. ¡°The terms are solid. I¡¯m satisfied with them.¡±


    With quick, confident strokes, she signed her name and stamped the document.


    Brock watched, impressed. Despite her rtionship with Ethan, Brenna had scrutinized the contract thoroughly, unlike others who might blindly sign anything from a wealthy source. Her caution was admirable.


    From this simple, symbolic lease, Brock could see the depth of Ethan¡¯s affection for Brenna. A contract like this could have been pulled from a temte online in minutes, yet Ethan had entrusted him with the task personally.


    He was used to drafting contracts for international deals worth hundreds of millions of dors, and the legal documents he oversaw were often pivotal in determining thepany¡¯s survival. Handling an agreement like this was unprecedented for him.


    After seeing them out, Brenna dove back into her work.


    After a while, Greta knocked on the office door and stepped inside, hesitating before stating her intent.


    ¡°Brenna, Tommy mentioned you¡¯re looking for an assistant. I was wondering if I¡¯d be a good fit.¡±


    Brenna looked up, caught off guard. Greta¡¯s talent for mechanical design was undeniable; she could excel as an engineer. Why did she want to be an assistant?


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    ¡°You? Why an assistant? The starting pay is only five thousand, with barely any bonuses. Compared to engineering, the sry of an assistant is a fraction of what you could earn. With your talent and qualifications, taking an assistant job would be squandering your potential,¡± Brenna said.


    Her tone remained cool and professional. She did not overthink Greta¡¯s proposal.


    Greta, however, had her own motives. She believed working as Brenna¡¯s assistant would give her more opportunities to cross paths with Ethan. She was willing to trade anything for a chance to get closer to him.


    Brenna, Greta fumbled, unable to muster a convincing reason. She had assumed Brenna would jump at the chance to hire a highly qualified assistant for a modest sry.


    To her surprise, Brenna was genuinely considering what was best for her career.


    Seeing Greta struggle to respond, Brenna said, ¡°Stick to engineering; that is where you shine. Your workst month was impressive. Leading your first project, you delivered results that thrilled the clients and earned a solid bonus. The assistant role just doesn¡¯t match your strengths.¡±


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 Chapter 664

    ?Chapter 664:


    Disheartened, Greta left the office. Outside, her colleagues were still arranging their desks, oblivious to her attempt to secure the assistant position.


    After gathering input from the team, Joe and Tommy finalized the venue for thepany outing, selecting the Imperial Bar, Shirie¡¯s premier entertainment spot. This upscale establishment in the heart of the city blended a sophisticated bar, karaoke lounge, and barbecue area, offering exclusive, costly services that catered to an elite clientele far beyond the reach of most people.


    As Brenna entered the grand lobby of the Imperial Bar, her eyes caught a familiar figure¡ªRosie, whom she hadn¡¯t seen in days. Rosie appeared unchanged, radiating charm as she stood, linking arms with Maxley, encircled by a small group of people trying to tter her. Their faces glowed with smiles, each vying for her favor. Among them, Brenna noticed Vivian.


    Rosie, facing away from Brenna, was unaware of Brenna¡¯s presence until Vivian subtly urged her to look in her direction.


    When Rosie turned and saw Brenna, her expression hardened, her eyes glinting with animosity. Their gazes locked briefly before Rosie averted hers, signaling she had no desire to talk to Brenna.


    On the day Rosie wed Maxley, she had hoped for the Harper family¡¯s presence, despite their ongoing legal disputes. After all, she still considered herself a member of the Harper family and believed her union with Maxley could open doors for the Harper family¡¯s business. Yet, the Harpers remained unforgiving, with none attending her wedding.


    Even the King of Plieca personally questioned Brenna¡¯s absence, urging Rosie to maintain a good rtionship with her.


    This had left Rosie deeply humiliated. Even now, the royal family of Plieca still mocked her over this incident.


    Maxley also noticed Brenna. He knew she was Ethan¡¯s cherished partner and someone he needed to tter for his own ambitions.


    With a subtle gesture, he signaled Rosie, who understood his motives instantly. Maxley¡¯s pursuit of the crown hinged on alliances with influential figures, and Ethan, the world¡¯s wealthiest man, was a prime target.


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    Maxley had married Rosie partly because of her past good rtionship with Ethan.


    Though their union was rooted in mutual gain, Rosie depended heavily on Maxley, while he had many other options.


    Lacking the courage to defy Maxley, Rosie forced a bright smile and approached Brenna with feigned warmth, saying, ¡°Brenna, fancy meeting you here! What has brought you to this ce?¡±


    Her eyes darted past Brenna, searching for Ethan but finding him absent. Curious, she asked, ¡°Where¡¯s Ethan? Why isn¡¯t he with you? This bar belongs to him.¡±


    Her revtion caught Joe, Tommy, and the other colleagues off guard; they hadn¡¯t known Ethan owned the Imperial Bar. Greta, meanwhile, was overjoyed to learn this. She couldn¡¯t pinpoint why, but being in a venue tied to Ethan, the man she had feelings for, gave her a thrilling sense of closeness to him.


    ¡°Miss Harper, it¡¯s wonderful to see you again. Would you care to join us for a drink?¡± Maxley said warmly. Initially, he had dismissed Brenna, having heard she hadn¡¯t been raised by the Harpers. But upon learning of her aplishments and the Harper family¡¯s fondness for her, his opinion shifted, recognizing her as someone worth befriending.


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 Chapter 665

    ?Chapter 665:


    Brenna brushed off Rosie¡¯s insincere greeting, repelled by her pretense. Only days ago, they had been adversaries in court, yet now, Rosie acted as if they were old friends. They were not on good terms at all.


    Patrick, clinging to Brenna¡¯s hand, gazed up at Rosie and Maxley with innocent charm.


    Brenna responded coolly, ¡°We¡¯re here for apany event, so I¡¯ll have to decline. My apologies, Mr. Gibran.¡±


    Maxley, unfazed, smiled and said, ¡°No worries, we¡¯ll catch up another time.¡±


    Feeling ignored, Rosie was angry. ¡°Did you not hear me? Where¡¯s Ethan?¡± She was still eager to repair her rtionship with Ethan and exin the misunderstanding in Plieca. However, her recent calls and messages to Ethan had gone unanswered.


    Brenna replied, ¡°He is upied but will arriveter. Is there something you need?¡± She knew Rosie¡¯s world revolved around calcted alliances, not genuine emotions.


    Rosie, catching Maxley¡¯s subtle nce, deduced he also wanted to meet Ethan. ¡°Which room are you in? I¡¯ll stop byter,¡± she said.


    Since tying the knot with Rosie, Maxley had been eager to forge ties with Shirie¡¯s four prominent families, but a meeting with Ethan had remained elusive.


    Rosie knew that if she could help Maxley meet Ethan, he would surely be pleased.


    After hearing Brenna¡¯s response, Maxley said, ¡°Wonderful, we¡¯ll drop byter to meet Mr. Mitchell.¡±


    Brenna, guiding Patrick by the hand, moved away from the group, opting for the stairs to avoid the crowd. Patrick grumbled to her, ¡°That baddy wille backter. I don¡¯t like her.¡±


    Greta, who had been close to Rosie for years but was snubbed from her wedding due to her family¡¯sck of status, turned to Brenna and asked, ¡°Brenna, did Rosie get married?¡±


    Brenna responded casually, ¡°Yes, she married Prince Maxley. She has quite a high status now.¡±


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    Greta and Rosie had been acquaintances since their early years, though their meetings were too infrequent to forge a deep bond. They were more like acquaintances than true friends.


    Still, Greta viewed Rosie as a friend and had shed a warm smile at her, wanting to talk to her. Yet Rosie hadn¡¯t so much as nced her way, ignoring her entirely.


    Greta couldn¡¯t help but feel that Rosie, now elevated to royal status, looked down on those with less prestigious backgrounds like hers.


    Greta didn¡¯t consider her family insignificant; her mother, a respected scientist, held a prominent mid-level role at the National Research Institute, and their family wasfortably affluent. While they couldn¡¯t rival the Harper family¡¯s stature, they were well above average.


    Surely, Greta thought, she was worthy of at least a brief chat with Rosie. Rosie¡¯s clear disinterest stung, leaving Greta quietly irritated.


    She recalled their childhood encounters when Rosie would dreamily dere her intention to marry Ethan someday. Now, with Ethan choosing Brenna, Greta couldn¡¯t help but feel a bit of satisfaction that Rosie didn¡¯t get what she wanted.


    The recent legal battle between Rosie and the Harper family had sparked widespread gossip, and Greta had caught every detail. She was now certain that Rosie¡¯s story would end in ruin; royal title or not, her downfall was just a matter of time.


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 Chapter 666

    ?Chapter 666:


    Still, Greta kept her dissatisfaction to herself and turned to Brenna. ¡°Brenna, they say the roastedmb here is out of this world. How about we order some?¡±


    Tommy said, ¡°I¡¯ve already ordered some. Roastedmb needs preordering, and it¡¯s probably ready now. Everyone, we can dig in tonight!¡±


    Nearby colleagues joined the chatter, buzzing about the roastedmb¡¯s hefty price tag.


    As they stepped into the reserved private room, a sprawling 200-square-meter space, the group of nearly sixty felt at ease. The room was spacious enough for them.


    Greta hovered near Brenna, saying, ¡°Brenna, I had no clue Mr. Mitchell owned this ce. No wonder everything¡¯s so top-tier.¡±


    Brenna gave a nonchnt nod. ¡°Yeah, I didn¡¯t even know they made roastedmb here, or how many ventures Ethan¡¯s got going.¡±


    Greta¡¯s eyes flicked to the door as a server rolled in a cart piled with beer, followed by others bearing roastedmb and an array of skewers. The scent of delicious food flooded the room, pulling everyone closer. Brenna joined the crowd, saying, ¡°Order anything you want tonight; it¡¯s my treat.¡±


    Greta stayed close, stealing another nce at the door. Ethan hadn¡¯t shown up yet, but she didn¡¯t dare ask Brenna when he would being. Since Brenna, Ethan¡¯s girlfriend, was not concerned about that, she knew she shouldn¡¯t show concern either.


    Knowing Ethan¡¯s demanding schedule, Greta trusted Brenna¡¯s word that he woulde eventually.


    Brenna¡¯s employees were in high spirits, singing, drinking, and chatting. Greta stuck by Brenna, eagerly serving her skewers and slicingmb for her te.


    About an hourter, Ethan arrived and entered the room.


    Brenna greeted him with a subtle smile, asking, ¡°Is he awake?¡± She was talking about Jayceon.


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    Ethan, in a cheerful mood, replied, ¡°He¡¯s awake and stable now. The doctor was blown away by your medicine, calling it revolutionary and wishing it could be mass-produced.¡±


    He scanned the lively, youthful crowd, giving Greta a brief nod before focusing on talking to Brenna.


    Greta quickly carvedmb, grabbed skewers, and fetched beer for Ethan, setting them before him.


    She stayed quiet, cautious not to let Brenna or Ethan sense her intentions, masking her actions as loyalty to Brenna.


    But Tommy and Joe weren¡¯t fooled.


    They knew that many of Brenna¡¯s female employees admired Ethan. After all, who wouldn¡¯t be drawn to such an exceptional man? Yet, most saw him as an unreachable star, never daring to dream of more, fully aware of the chasm between them.


    Ethan had barely settled for ten minutes when Rosie and Maxley entered the room, dressed as before, their faces lit with ttering smiles.


    Their entrance silenced the singing, and the room quieted. The group gathered to share food and drinks.


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 Chapter 667

    ?Chapter 667:


    Ethan nced at Maxley, rising slowly to offer a courteous but reserved handshake.


    Brenna stood too, her smile thin, her demeanor cool.


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell, Miss Harper, good evening,¡± Maxley said, extending his hand to Ethan.


    Rosie followed, reaching out her hand. ¡°Ethan, long time no see.¡±


    Ethan shook Maxley¡¯s hand but ignored Rosie¡¯s, his memory sharp with her past betrayal¡ªshe had tried to have him killed when he and Brenna had been Edward¡¯s captives.


    When he had been useless to her, she had sought his death; now, needing his influence, she yed nice? Did she think he was some gullible fool?


    Rosie¡¯s expression faltered. ¡°Ethan, can¡¯t we move on from the past? I can apologize to you now. We¡¯ve known each other since we were children. Must you be so unforgiving?¡±


    Ethan agreed to meet with Rosie only out of courtesy to Maxley. He had extensive business interests scattered across Plieca¡ªventure capital, high-end hotels, fine dining chains, luxury jewelry, and cutting-edge electronics. His portfolio also included stakes in several of the region¡¯s top-performingpanies.


    Maxley¡¯s influence in Plieca had already surpassed that of other princes, making him the strongest contender for the throne.


    Ethan knew he had to show Maxley the proper respect.


    If not for Maxley, he wouldn¡¯t have even nced Rosie¡¯s way. He believed Rosie was cunning. Despite her asional recklessness, everything she did served her own advancement.


    In just a month, she had carved out a solid presence in Plieca. She liquidated her Harper Group shares, moved the capital, and funneled it into strategic investments across the region. With her sharp financial instincts, she had quickly be a major yer in the local economy.


    Even Maxley had seen what she brought to the table. He had personally returned to Vand with her, hoping to secure support from local businesses.


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    Ethan kept his expression cold. He didn¡¯t answer Rosie.


    But Rosie didn¡¯t back down. She understood Ethan¡¯s ties to Plieca¡¯s royal family. As long as his business relied on that connection, she had room to negotiate. She didn¡¯t believe he would shut her outpletely.


    ¡°Ethan, don¡¯t you think we¡¯ve carried our old grudges long enough? I¡¯m apologizing to you right here for what happened in Plieca. I made a mistake. Let me make it up to you. How about I bring you a project? Consider it my way of saying sorry.¡±


    With that, she turned toward the door, took a folder from a bodyguard dressed in ck, and handed it to Ethan.


    ¡°This is the project for the cross-sea bridge in Plieca. It¡¯s a major infrastructure development. Total investment? Five hundred million dors. Ethan, if you¡¯re willing to ept my apology, the project is yours. We can sign the contract right here. What do you say?¡±


    Brenna kept her expression even as she typed a few quick words into her phone. A momentter, the screen was filled with search results¡ªdozens of Vand constructionpanies were vying for this project.


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 Chapter 668

    ?Chapter 668:


    She turned the phone slightly for Ethan to see.


    Ethan gave it a passing nce before shifting his gaze elsewhere. There was no denying it¡ªhis own construction firm had thrown its hat in the ring. But thepetition this time was fierce, and even his team wasn¡¯t entirely confident they could secure the project. An offer like this, handed to him without a fight, was rare.


    But Ethan wasn¡¯t one to bend his values. ¡°I don¡¯t need you to hand the project to me.¡±


    He believed he could win the project on his own, fair and square. His gaze remained hard. ¡°Rosie, Brenna and I nearly lost our lives on that ship in Plieca. And you think this would just fix everything? Your apology doesn¡¯te off as sincere.¡±


    Maxley didn¡¯t understand the Vandnguage they were speaking. But he picked up on Ethan¡¯s foul mood right away and sensed his disinterest in the proposal. Turning to Rosie, he asked, ¡°What¡¯s happening?¡±


    Rosie felt a bit awkward. Ethan hadn¡¯t changed a bit¡ªstill stubborn, still leaving no room forpromise. ¡°It¡¯s nothing. Mr. Mitchell just didn¡¯t find the terms eptable. We¡¯ll keep negotiating,¡± she said to Maxley.


    After wrapping up his exchange with Maxley, Rosie turned her focus back to Ethan. ¡°Ethan, you know this project will bring in massive returns. And I¡¯m well aware yourpany¡¯s already in the running. Since you want the project, just ept my offer. Show a little grace and let the past go. We could have more chances to work together down the line.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s reply came sharp and bitter. ¡°Oh, you mean more chances for you to try and have me killed? No, thanks.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s temper red. Ethan was harsher to her than ever, and it grated on her nerves.


    Rosie caught the look on Brenna¡¯s face¡ªdistant, unreadable, as if nothing around her was worth the time. She didn¡¯t take her seriously at all.


    Just then, an idea popped into Rosie¡¯s mind. Maybe Brenna held the key. If she could get Brenna on her side, maybe Ethan would ept her offer.


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    ¡°Brenna, turning down money like this doesn¡¯t make sense. Persuade Ethan for me, will you? If we partner on this deal, I¡¯ll cut you in on the profits.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not interested. I¡¯ve got my own contracts to deliver. I don¡¯t have time for side deals.¡± Brenna didn¡¯t hesitate to turn Rosie down. She knew Rosie was just trying to use her. Considering Rosie¡¯s habit of nursing grudges, she knew there was no way Rosie would simply overlook everything the Harper family had done to her.


    ¡°You two are unbelievable, turning down that kind of money. Think it through. If someone else takes the deal, you¡¯ll be missing out on billions,¡± Rosie said with a faint smile.


    One look at Ethan was enough¡ªMaxley could tell the deal wasn¡¯t going anywhere.


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell, would you consider the partnership?¡± he asked, raising a ss toward Ethan and Brenna.


    As he lifted the drink toward them, no one noticed the slight movement of his hand. He slipped something into the ss.


    Greta had no ce in Ethan and the Prince¡¯s private conversation. She appeared to be casually snacking alongside her colleagues, but her eyes remained fixed on Ethan. She didn¡¯t have the nerve to stare directly, so she held up her phone, the rotatable camera tilted just enough to catch Ethan in the frame.


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 Chapter 669

    ?Chapter 669:


    To anyone watching, she seemed to be idly munching and ying with her phone. But in truth, she was observing Ethan¡¯s every move through the screen.


    Then, by sheer luck, something caught her eye. Her camera picked up the slight motion of Maxley¡¯s hand as he slipped something into Ethan¡¯s drink. It was a filthy trick, and Greta¡¯s breath caught in her throat.


    She almost gasped aloud. The Prince from Plieca, resorting to such underhanded tactics?


    Thank goodness she had noticed. If not for her watchful eye, Ethan would have walked right into disaster.


    Without hesitation, she sent Brenna a message to warn her about the situation.


    Sure, Greta had feelings for Ethan. She wanted more than anything to steal him from Brenna. But this was something she had no power to stop on her own.


    She couldn¡¯t stand by and watch Ethan walk straight into a trap.


    Brenna¡¯s phone lit up with a soft buzz. She nced down and read the message. Then, she gently nudged Ethan with her elbow, showing him the warning.


    After seeing the message, Ethan remainedposed. He held the ss of wine but didn¡¯t bring it to his lips.


    Maxley was infamous for this kind of thing. He was a master maniptor.


    Having dealt with him long enough, Rosie knew all too well what he was capable of. Drug the drink, wait until the target was unconscious, then snap a few damning photos. It was Maxley¡¯s sick little game to force people into doing his bidding.


    Because of this, Maxley¡¯s reputation was far from good. Sure, his influence had grown over the years, but so had the long list of enemies he had made along the way.


    Ethan had heard rumors about these tactics from a manager back in Plieca. Still, he hadn¡¯t expected Maxley to dare pull such a stunt on him.


    What baffled him even more was that Maxley had shown up to their meeting carrying drugs. It was outrageous.


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    Ethan wondered if Rosie knew about this. If she did, then she was worse than he had believed. Only moments ago, she had talked about how they had grown up together. And yet here she was, helping Maxley scheme against him?


    She should have at least considered where they were. The Imperial Bar was his territory. To think she would try to pull this off here? What was she thinking? She was a fool to believe such a cheap trick would ever work.


    Ethan¡¯s eyes gleamed with coldness. Without a word, he set the wine ss on the table, slipped out his phone, and fired off a few messages.


    Then, he tucked the phone back into his pocket.


    He turned to Maxley and began to speak with him.


    Brenna stayed by his side, listening in silence.


    It only took a handful of exchanges before both Ethan and Maxley rose to their feet.


    Ethan said to Brenna, ¡°You all have fun here. I¡¯m stepping out with Maxley to talk about the project.¡±


    Brenna nodded and saw them off.


    The moment they were gone, Brenna¡¯s phone buzzed with a message from Ethan: ¡°This is my territory. Since he dares to scheme against me, I will teach him a lesson.¡±


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 Chapter 670

    ?Chapter 670:


    A soft smile curved Brenna¡¯s lips. She put away her phone and leaned backfortably against the sofa.


    Tommy strolled over with a smile. ¡°Brenna,e sing a song with us and have a few drinks.¡±


    Greta soon walked over and asked with concern, ¡°Brenna, does Mr. Mitchell know?¡±


    Brenna felt a wave of gratitude toward Greta. She hadn¡¯t expected Maxley to resort to something like that. If not for Greta, she and Ethan wouldn¡¯t have found out about Maxley¡¯s dirty trick.


    ¡°He knows. Thank you,¡± Brenna replied.


    ¡°That¡¯s a relief. I was just worried Mr. Mitchell might end up harmed,¡± Greta said, her eyes flicking toward the door.


    Brenna offered a confident smile. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. This is his territory. No one would seed in targeting him here.¡±


    Even though she had never asked for details, she could piece it together on her own. Ethan¡¯s rise to be the world¡¯s richest man in only about eight years was no stroke of luck. He must have exceptional skills.


    Still unaware of the situation, Tommy asked, ¡°What¡¯s going on, Brenna? Did something happen?¡±


    ¡°I saw Maxley slip something into Mr. Mitchell¡¯s drink,¡± Greta exined.


    Tommy froze, eyes wide. They hadn¡¯t even settled ounts for what happened back in Plieca. Yet Maxley dared to scheme against Ethan and Brenna again.


    Anger shed across Tommy¡¯s face. ¡°How could a prince stoop that low? That¡¯s disgusting! He needs to be taught a lesson!¡±


    Greta nodded in agreement. ¡°Exactly. Trash like him should be kicked out of Vand.¡±


    As the memory of the incident in Plieca surfaced, Tommy still felt a twinge of fear. If it hadn¡¯t been for Brenna risking herself to save him, Joe, and Thiago, he might not be standing here today.


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    ¡°Rosie and Maxley are the same. Both rotten to the core,¡± Tommy muttered. ¡°Brenna, do you think Mr. Mitchell will make sure Maxley pays for this?¡±


    Brenna nodded. ¡°Yeah.¡±


    Tommy¡¯s eyes lit up with excitement. ¡°I want to be there when it happens.¡±


    Brenna shook her phone yfully. ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll tell you when Ethan makes his move to teach Maxley a lesson.¡±


    After a while, Greta pulled Brenna toward the microphone. The chatter and clinking sses quieted. Everyone¡¯s eyes turned to Brenna.


    They had followed her lead for so long, but this was their first team outing together. Not one of them had ever heard her sing. Now, curiosity sparkled across every face.


    ¡°Brenna, what song do you want to sing?¡± someone asked.


    Brenna¡¯s cheeks flushed with embarrassment. She wasn¡¯t familiar with pop songs at all. Between her packed workdays and endless meetings, she barely had time to breathe, let alone keep up with music charts. The only tune stuck in her head was the theme song from Dalton¡¯stest TV series, something she had been forced to hear more times than she cared to count.


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 Chapter 671

    ?Chapter 671:


    Greta leaned in, curiosity buzzing under her skin. Brenna was almost brilliant at everything. Would she also be good at singing?


    If that were the case, then life would be so unfair.


    Across the room, Patrick sat hunched over his phone, having a video call with Ellie and Thiago. ¡°Brenna¡¯s about to sing. Can you do something to stop her?¡± he asked.


    He couldn¡¯t forget the nights Brenna hummed him to sleeppletely off-key, every note a disaster.


    On the screen, Ellie and Thiago lounged in matching linen outfits, sunshine glinting off the waves behind them. Patrick scowled. They had gone on a trip without bringing him along.


    Ellie and Thiago burst outughing. Brenna could do almost anything, but when it came to singing, she was hopeless. Yet she herself didn¡¯t believe she was always off-key when she sang.


    Ellie grinned. ¡°Get her to pick up the call; save yourself while you still can.¡±


    ¡°Brenna!¡± Patrick hurried over, eyes wide. ¡°Mommy and Thiago are on the line; they want to talk to you!¡±


    Joe had just lined up the ylist, eager for Brenna to sing. He shot Patrick a look of displeasure. ¡°Patrick, let Brenna sing first.¡±


    But Patrick shook his head with determination. ¡°No, Mommy said it¡¯s really important. She has to talk to Brenna right now.¡±


    If Brenna started singing, she wouldn¡¯t want to stop at just one song¡ªshe would sing at least ten. That was worse than torture. Patrick believed his ears weren¡¯t ready for that suffering.


    With a desperate look, he yanked the mic from Brenna¡¯s hands, put it elsewhere, and practically dragged her aside to take the call from Ellie.


    Brenna¡¯s employees had no clue how narrowly they had avoided a disaster.


    The party rolled on.


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    Meanwhile, Greta kept sneaking nces toward the door, waiting for Ethan to return. But he never did. Even by the time the party ended around one in the morning, he still hadn¡¯te back.


    The party had left everyone drunk; some were swaying just trying to stand. There was no way Brenna would risk letting them drive, so she quickly arranged for a group of designated drivers.


    She always paid her employees well¡ªsolid sries and hefty bonuses¡ªso they all had their own cars.


    Brenna didn¡¯t make her way to her own car until everyone else had been safely seen off.


    Neville stood off to the side, waiting for her. ¡°Mr. Mitchell asked me to drive you home. He¡¯sying a trap for Maxley and Rosie tonight. Told me not to wait for him.¡±


    That piqued Brenna¡¯s interest. ¡°What exactly is he nning to do to those two?¡±


    Neville still hadn¡¯t forgiven Rosie and Maxley for what had happened in Plieca. He had lost a chunk of his hair because of them.


    He had been assigned to investigate the incident, and he discovered that Rosie and Maxley were the masterminds. But the pair thought they were brilliant, convinced no one would trace it back to them. That misced confidence was exactly why they had the nerve to meet Ethan again, thinking they could trick him.


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 Chapter 672

    ?Chapter 672:


    ¡°Miss Harper, check the trending topics tomorrow. Trust me, it¡¯s going to be one hell of a show,¡± Neville said with a grin. ¡°Last time, those two nearly got us killed. They at least need to be taught a lesson. Mr. Mitchell has been waiting for this opportunity for a while; he won¡¯t let it go to waste.¡±


    Brenna nodded. She also wanted to get back at Rosie and Maxley. Once her current projects wrapped up, she fully intended to hit back¡ªtargeting Rosie and Maxley through the stock market and making them pay.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go home now,¡± she said.


    Neville slid into the driver¡¯s seat of her car and chauffeured her back without another word.


    Brenna didn¡¯t wake until after ten the next morning. Still groggy, she grabbed her phone and checked the trending news.


    ¡°Royal chaos caught live¡ªforeign Prince and his wife involved in midnight altercation, the Prince seen battered and bruised.¡± The news snapped her out of her grogginess. She tapped the article. Dozens of explicit photos were on the screen. She scrolled through them, shaking her head.


    Ethan had gone all in. There was no way Rosie could show her face in Shirie ever again. With so many nude photos of her flooding the feed and the post racking up¡­


    traction by the second, every major yer in the city¡¯s elite circles had probably seen the photos.


    Even though Maxley wasn¡¯t from Vand, the overwhelming virality guaranteed the post would hit the international wire soon. Within a day, the media in Plieca would get the news.


    Brenna believed Ethan had probably already tipped off the media in Plieca. At this point, Maxley could kiss any chance of inheriting the throne goodbye.


    This move was brilliant.


    After skimming the post a second time, Brenna shot Ethan a message. ¡°Impressive work.¡±


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    Ethan replied quickly, ¡°Are you happy with this? I¡¯m not the kind of man people can y games with; anyone who tries will regret it. And I won¡¯t let anyone hurt you, either.¡±


    Brenna had been smiling as she texted with Ethan. But then, she received a call from Rosie.


    She narrowed her eyes at the screen. She had no ns to pick up the call, knowing Rosie was calling to confront her. She just waited for the call to disconnect on its own.


    Rosie, relentless as ever, tried again and again. When it became obvious Brenna wouldn¡¯t answer, she sent her a message. ¡°You were behind it, weren¡¯t you, Brenna?¡±


    Brenna brushed off Rosie¡¯s message, giving it a quick nce before closing the chat. She opened Instagram and saw that Ellie and Thiago had shared selfies from avish overseas hotel. Without a second thought, she liked their posts.


    After a while, she got up, freshened up, and knocked on Patrick¡¯s door. No answer. Patrick was not inside. So, she headed downstairs to the kitchen to grab something to eat. The chefs were bustling about, prepping lunch. There weren¡¯t many family members at home for lunch, so they prepared the meal mostly for the staff. The head chef quickly whipped up a simple breakfast for Brenna.


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 Chapter 673

    ?Chapter 673:


    Just then, Julia returned, trailed by two maids hauling hefty bags of fresh vegetables.


    ¡°Ms. Harper, you¡¯re awake? Patrick and Mr. Dalton Harper stepped out for the day. Mr. Harper asked me to tell you this. He is nning to get back into acting and has an audition today. They needed a young actor, so he brought Patrick along.¡±


    Brenna nodded, eating her meal slowly. ¡°Doesn¡¯t Patrick dislike Dalton? Why would he tag along?¡±


    Julia looked surprised. ¡°I thought Patrick was fond of Mr. Harper.¡±


    Brenna didn¡¯t press the issue. She finished her food, slung her bag over her shoulder, and left for the office.


    Meanwhile, reporters were pounding on the door of a suite at the Empire Hotel.


    ¡°Open the door! Prince Maxley, would you care to exin the public scene you and your wife pulled on the street? Was it a staged act?¡±


    ¡°Are you representing the Plieca royal family?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the reason behind this?¡±


    Rosie and Maxley were fuming, with Maxley on the verge of losing it over the relentless reporters.


    Earlier that morning, just past five, he had been jolted awake to find himself sprawled in the middle of a busy intersection. The streets were quiet at that hour, but street cleaners were already at work. One of them had shaken him awake.


    The cleaner, a man in his fifties, was snapping photos of him with his phone, having already taken several.


    Maxley woke up dazed, not realizing where he was, aching all over. He felt weak and was shivering.


    ¡°Who let you into my room, you disgusting old man?¡± he barked at the cleaner, furious at being yanked from a dream where he was partying with top celebrities worldwide.


    ¡°Did you toss these tissues? Absolutely revolting!¡± the cleaner shot back.


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    Maxley¡¯s senses snapped into focus. He realized he was lying naked in the street, clutching a woman covered in what looked like hickeys. Her hair was a tangled mess, hiding her face, but he knew she was Rosie.


    Memories from the night before rushed back. He recalled heading to another room with Ethan, who had suddenly be enthusiastic, signing a contract and drinking heavily with him. Rosie had drunk a lot, too.


    After that, his recollection blurred, probably from too much alcohol. But given his current situation, something awful must have happened, though he couldn¡¯t piece together why he had ended up here.


    He pped Rosie hard to wake her up.


    Rosie groaned, quickly realizing she was naked in the middle of the intersection. Several cars waited at the traffic lights, their headlights spotlighting her.


    Some drivers had even stepped out of their cars, snapping close-up photos of her.


    Within minutes, a crowd of about twenty had gathered, taking pictures and posting them online. Some even recognized them.


    ¡°Wow, is this some kind of performance art? Foreigners are truly wild!¡±


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 Chapter 674

    ?Chapter 674:


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that the Harper family¡¯s daughter? Didn¡¯t she marry a prince or something? Why is she doing this?¡±


    ¡°If these photos leak, they¡¯ll blow up the inte.¡±


    Rosie tried to shrink into Maxley¡¯s arms, wishing she could vanish. The cleaner tossed them some tattered clothes from the trash to cover their naked bodies.


    They eventually managed to go back to their hotel room.


    ¡°Maxley, someone must have set us up!¡± Rosie said, convinced Ethan and Brenna were the masterminds.


    In her mind, only Brenna could devise such a vile n.


    She called Brenna repeatedly, but Brenna wouldn¡¯t pick up.


    ¡°We can¡¯t let Brenna get away with this!¡± Rosie spat, seething.


    Maxley, even angrier, red at the door in frustration. ¡°We need to kill Ethan and Brenna. You deal with the reporters; I¡¯lle up with a n. This isn¡¯t just a personal attack; it¡¯s an insult to Plieca and our royal family!¡±


    Maxley insisted Rosie face the reporters on her own. But Rosie was reluctant, knowing she would only be humiliated. Seeing her stall, Maxley¡¯s frustration boiled over. He shot to his feet, barking, ¡°Hurry up!¡±


    Left with no choice, Rosie concealed her identitypletely, desperate to avoid recognition if photographed. She donned a face mask and oversized sunsses. She wrapped a vibrant designer scarf around her head and wore a long trench coat before cautiously opening the hotel room door.


    ¡°Ms. Harper, you have finallye out!¡±


    ¡°Where¡¯s Prince Maxley? Is he still inside?¡±


    ¡°Can you get Prince Maxley to step out?¡±


    ¡°Ms. Harper, is what you did with Prince Maxley a form of art or something?¡±


    Rosie was beyond exasperated. She had never despised journalists as much as she did at that moment. Shoving through the throng with all her strength, she called out, ¡°Come with me, and I¡¯ll answer your questions.¡±


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    She hadn¡¯t forgotten Maxley¡¯s orders. After the day¡¯s fiasco, if she couldn¡¯t regain his favor and prove her worth, she might lose her royal title. She wasn¡¯t about to let the status she had fought so hard to achieve vanish.


    As expected, the reporters took the bait, following her out.


    Brenna arrived at the Mitchell Group headquarters and immediately sensed something was amiss. The four receptionists¡ªtwo men and two women¡ªwho had greeted her courteously the day before now eyed her with peculiar looks.


    Mny Olson, a young and attractive female receptionist with over three years of experience at the front desk, knew every executive and mid-level manager by name and could recognize many employees. She had been here a few days earlier when Elsa had caused a stir and had even answered some of Elsa¡¯s questions, learning her identity in the process.


    ¡°Ms. Harper,¡± Mny said to Brenna with a practiced smile, ¡°Mr. Mitchell¡¯s mother is here. She specifically asked if you had arrived. It seems she wants to speak with you.¡±


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 Chapter 675

    ?Chapter 675:


    Brenna nodded, catching the hint. ¡°Understood. Thanks. Has Ethan arrived?¡±


    Had Mny not tipped her off about Elsa¡¯s arrival, she might have walked into her office unprepared for an ambush.


    Mny shook her head. ¡°No.¡±


    Brenna asked, ¡°Do you have any idea which floor Ethan¡¯s mother headed to?¡±


    ¡°Sorry, I¡¯m not sure. I only saw her take the elevator Mr. Mitchell usually uses.¡±


    Brenna opted for the employee elevator to avoid crossing paths with Elsa.


    The Mitchell Group¡¯s headquarters was a 99-story skyscraper, one of Shirie¡¯s tallest, housing thousands of employees and multiple elevators.


    Brenna figured the odds of running into Elsa were slim.


    Fortunately, her trip was smooth. She soon reached the 58th floor, where employees were engrossed in their work.


    As she neared her office door, the elevator Ethan typically used dinged open. Minna emerged, arm-in-arm with Elsa. The moment Elsa spotted Brenna, her face soured.


    Brenna suspected one of the receptionists must have told Elsa about her arrival.


    She didn¡¯t me the receptionist. After all, she believed a confrontation with Elsa was bound to happen eventually.


    Heads turned toward Brenna. Someone grabbed a phone to dial Tommy.


    Elsa, radiating authority, strode toward Brenna. ¡°You¡¯ve got some gall, chasing my son all the way to thepany headquarters.¡±


    ¡°Good afternoon, Mrs. Mitchell,¡± Brenna said courteously. She wasn¡¯t fond of Elsa but remained polite for Ethan¡¯s sake.


    Elsa said, ¡°I¡¯m here to tell you to leave. If you have any self-respect, leave on your own. Don¡¯t force me to throw you out.¡± Her face was etched with irritation.


    She had been tied up caring for her elderly mother for the past two days. With a rare free morning, she had taken leave from her teaching job toe here. But she still had to return to schoolter and then cook dinner at her mother¡¯s in the evening.


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    She had no idea that Ethan was behind her busy schedule.


    All she knew was that Brenna seemed to have uncanny luck, as she hadn¡¯t had the chance to confront her until now.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have the right to make me leave,¡± Brenna replied evenly. She opened her office door, stepped inside, set her bag on the desk, and settled into her chair.


    Minna spoke up, eager to fan the mes. ¡°Mrs. Mitchell, look at her! She¡¯s got no shame. I told her yesterday to stay away from Mr. Mitchell, but she refused to listen. And now she¡¯s iming you don¡¯t have the right to tell her to leave? You¡¯re the CEO¡¯s mother! His assets are your assets. Of course, you have the right to make her leave. Who does she think she is?¡±


    Greta, standing nearest to Minna and Elsa, was angered by their words. After a moment¡¯s reflection, she chose not to act, opting instead to watch how things unfolded. If the situation escted, she could always call Rex to notify Ethan.


    Minna and Elsa barged into Brenna¡¯s office. Minna said sharply to Brenna, ¡°When are you going to pack up your things and leave?¡±


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 Chapter 676

    ?Chapter 676:


    Brenna swipedzily across her phone screen, her attention caught by a fresh message from Ethan. He told her she shouldn¡¯t back down in front of his mother. She could have a fight with his mother. He even promised a reward if she came out on top.


    Apparently, he often argued with his mother, too.


    A quietugh slipped from Brenna¡¯s lips. Ethan had no filter, and that kind of blunt honesty amused her. It was clear someone had already filled him in on what had happened.


    Knowing she had his backing, Brenna felt even more at ease about what she was about to do.


    Elsa and Minna caught her smiling and took it the wrong way. To them, it looked like mockery.


    Minna thought Elsa ought to be left out of this conflict, especially given her position as a professor at Shirie University and her past as one of Vand¡¯s most celebrated singers.


    So Minna took the initiative to confront Brenna, demanding in a harsh tone, ¡°Why are you smiling like that?¡±


    She tried to dominate the moment, hoping her voice alone would rattle Brenna. In her mind, volume meant victory. So even the employees outside heard her.


    Concerned about how things might unfold, Greta slipped out to the break room. She said she¡¯d make coffee for the guests, but it was clear she just needed a reason to go inside and check on the situation. Tommy, who worked next door, beat her to it. He walked inside the office holding a folder, already sensing the tension in the air.


    Tommy wasn¡¯t too worried about Brenna. He knew she could hold her own. What kept him uneasy was the idea of Elsa and Minna getting themselves into trouble. If anything, they were the ones who needed protection here, not the other way around.


    The moment Tommy stepped through the door, Elsa snapped her head toward him. ¡°Who allowed you toe in? Get out!¡±


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    In her eyes, this was her son¡¯spany building, and by extension, her rule held weight. Deciding who stayed and who left? That was her right.


    Tommy didn¡¯t flinch. He crossed the room without saying a word.


    ¡°I¡¯ve got a document that needs your signature, Brenna.¡± Heid the folder on the table and stayed where he was, locking eyes with Elsa and Minna without the slightest hint of fear.


    Elsa¡¯s face darkened. ¡°I¡¯m speaking to you! Are you deaf? I said leave!¡±


    Minna stepped forward, determined to remove Tommy herself.


    But Tommy didn¡¯t budge. He had the kind of frame that spoke of long hours at the gym, and his expression stayed calm, though his eyes sharpened. ¡°Ms. Davies, this is the Night Studio, not the Mitchell Group. You¡¯d do well to watch your behavior. If you cross the line, don¡¯t expect me to stay polite.¡±


    Tommy¡¯s stare unsettled Minna more than she cared to admit. She froze in ce, the boldness draining from her posture. ¡°Mrs. Mitchell is Mr. Mitchell¡¯s mother,¡± she said, her voice tight. ¡°What she says holds power. If she tells you to leave, then you should leave. And you should take Brenna with you.¡±


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 Chapter 677

    ?Chapter 677:


    She stepped in front of Elsa without thinking, acting as a shield in case Tommy tried anything reckless.


    But Elsa was not scared. She nudged Minna to the side with a light hand, grateful for the gesture. This only confirmed what she had been feeling for some time¡ªMinna was the one she wanted as her daughter-inw.


    ¡°There¡¯s no need to stand in front of me, Minna. They wouldn¡¯t darey a finger on me.¡±


    Tommy stood still, calm as ever. He¡¯d been with Brenna from the start of her studio days, had seen every rise and fall, and had never once stepped back when things got rough. He didn¡¯t see Elsa or Minna as threats. His role here was simple¡ªto remind them that Brenna wasn¡¯t alone, and nobody could walk over her.


    Elsa turned her re on Brenna. ¡°Well? Are you leaving or not? Because if you¡¯re nning to stay, I¡¯ll call security. If you don¡¯t want to be kicked out forcibly, you¡¯d better leave now.¡±


    Without blinking, Brenna pulled open the drawer and slid a folder onto the table. ¡°I¡¯ve rented the 57th and 58th floors of the Mitchell Group¡¯s headquarters. This is the lease. If you want me gone, you¡¯ll have to break the contract and pay the penalty.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s face shifted. ¡°You have a lease?¡±


    She had always assumed Ethan had given Brenna the space for free, no strings attached. As far as she was concerned, anything under the Mitchell Group¡¯s roof was hers. If she said someone had to leave, they needed to listen. Even Ethan needed to listen to her.


    But now, a lease agreement had surfaced, and she was puzzled.


    The lease agreement was barely a few pages long. Elsa skimmed through it, seeing nothing amiss. She then reached the second-tost page. There, in stark print, was a use about breaking the contract. If the Mitchell Group broke the lease and forced Brenna¡¯spany out early, they¡¯d be pped with a ten-billion-dor penalty.


    ¡°Ten billion dors?¡± Elsa shouted. ¡°This is outrageous! This contract can¡¯t be valid.¡±


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    Back when they had first drafted the agreement, Brenna had questioned the use herself. But Ethan had insisted on it. He had told her it mighte in handy, and now, it all made sense.


    Ethan had anticipated his mother¡¯s reaction and made the agreement with her in mind.


    Minna leaned in to read the use for herself. ¡°This isn¡¯t fair at all!¡±


    Brenna didn¡¯t flinch. Her voice stayed steady. ¡°That doesn¡¯t matter to me. Everything¡¯s written down, stamped by bothpanies and signed by Ethan himself. We both agreed to it. If you want me gone, just pay the fee. As soon as that¡¯s settled, I¡¯ll be out the door.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s fury erupted. ¡°You manipted my son into signing this ridiculous contract! I¡¯m telling you now; this won¡¯t hold up in court. You need to leave!¡±


    With that, she tore the contract to pieces.


    Elsa¡¯s re sharpened as she took in Brenna¡¯s calm expression. ¡°You¡¯ve got some audacity. I¡¯ve done everything to throw you out, and yet you keep hanging around.¡±


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 Chapter 678

    ?Chapter 678:


    Her chest rose and fell with fury. She hurled the torn-up contract at Brenna¡¯s face, the paper fluttering like confetti.


    But Brenna had seen iting. She calmly raised the intact contract from the table to shield herself, then met Elsa¡¯s eyes without flinching. ¡°Unless you want the police involved, I suggest you leave. I¡¯ve paid the rent. This is my workspace now, and you don¡¯t get to barge in and make a scene here.¡±


    Seeing that neither Elsa nor Minna intended to leave, Tommy pulled out his phone and dialed 911. He held up the screen to show Elsa and Minna.


    Elsa looked at the screen, gave a sharp huff through her nose, and stormed off.


    She had a reputation to maintain¡ªher fans and the school could never know she was arrested for harassment. It was this consideration that made her leave.


    Greta, who had been lingering by the doorway, stepped in and began gathering the shredded scraps scattered across the table and floor. She looked up and said, ¡°Brenna, maybe it¡¯s time we hired some security guards. What if shees back to stir up trouble again?¡±


    ¡°No need to worry. She¡¯s not likely to return,¡± Brenna said coldly, well aware of how fiercely public figures guarded their image.


    As someone in the public eye, Dalton had offered perspectives that had inspired Brenna.


    As Greta walked out, she also took away the two untouched coffees. Tommy nced at Brenna and asked, ¡°What makes you so sure she¡¯s noting back?¡±


    Brenna replied smoothly, ¡°You¡¯ve heard of Elsa before, right?¡±


    Tommy let out a lowugh. ¡°Are you kidding? I grew up with her songs sting through the house. Of course, I¡¯ve heard of her.¡±


    ¡°Then what do you think of her now?¡± Brenna asked.


    Tommy caught on right away. ¡°She¡¯s got a public image to protect. An arrest would cause way more damage than coughing up some penalty fee.¡±


    Brenna gave a slight nod. ¡°Exactly. That¡¯s why I doubt she¡¯ll show up here again. If it were me, I¡¯d send someone else to stir things up. Someone without a reputation to lose.¡±


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    ¡°She could easily find someone to deal with you since she is the CEO¡¯s mother. Lending her a hand could pay off big time.¡±


    After a short exchange, Tommy left, exining the situation to the team so they could get back to business.


    Once things settled, Brenna messaged Ethan to fill him in on what had happened.


    Ethan replied almost instantly, ¡°So? Did youe out on top?¡±


    ¡°I came out on top.¡±


    ¡°Nice. What did you do to pull it off?¡± Ethan asked.


    Brenna replied, ¡°I threatened to call the police.¡±


    ¡°Bold. If the police had arrested her, she¡¯d be blowing up on every tform by now. You¡¯re amazing. I¡¯m heading to the hospital this afternoon to visit Jayceon, so I can¡¯t have lunch with you. Be sure to eat on time.¡±


    Brenna replied, ¡°No need to report your whereabouts to me.¡±


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 Chapter 679

    ?Chapter 679:


    ¡°I just want to let you know. We will visit my grandmother on Saturday.¡±


    ¡°All right. What kind of gift does she usually like?¡±


    ¡°Money. Nothing thrills her more,¡± Ethan replied.


    Brenna arched a brow. ¡°That¡¯s not surprising at all.¡±


    Just as Brenna was about to close the chat with Ethan, a new message lit up the screen.


    The familiar name jolted her.


    Jordy¡¯s message popped up. ¡°Are you free at noon? Want to grab lunch together?¡±


    A rush of painful memories surged through Brenna¡ªJordy¡¯s betrayal still sharp as ever. If she recalled correctly, this was the same man who had rushed to end their engagement and wasted no time proposing to Isabe once the Barrett family cast her out. He was her ex-fianc¨¦. Without a second thought, Brenna deleted the message and blocked him.


    Meanwhile, on the tennis court, Jordy was mid-match with his ex-girlfriend Isabe and her current boyfriend Denis, all the while waiting for Brenna¡¯s reply. Minutes passed, and still, there was nothing from Brenna.


    Denis flung his racket onto the bench, unscrewed a water bottle, and took a sip. ¡°Still nothing?¡± he asked, casting Jordy a nce.


    Jordy fired off another message, only to discover he had been blocked on WhatsApp.


    ¡°Damn it,¡± he muttered, scowling. ¡°She blocked me.¡±


    He tried calling Brenna, but the call was quickly declined, making Jordy want to throw his phone in frustration.


    ¡°Denis, I¡¯ve tried everything. She won¡¯t answer,¡± he said, frustrated.


    Isabe scoffed, ¡°She is probably scared Mr. Mitchell will find out she¡¯s still chatting with her ex.¡±


    Denis had hit a wall and needed Brenna¡¯s help. After Jade¡¯s passing, he¡¯d inherited a tangled web of businesses across Vand¡ªfar too many, and some well outside his skill set. What he needed now was someone skilled in managing finance like Brenna.


    ¡°Isabe, you call her. I don¡¯t think she¡¯d ever turn down an opportunity to make some serious cash.¡±


    Isabe yanked out her phone and snapped at Jordy, ¡°You seriously can¡¯t handle such a simple matter. So useless.¡±


    Jordy might have talked back to an ex, but arguing with Denis¡¯s girlfriend wasn¡¯t something he could afford to do. So he remained silent.


    Isabe dialed Brenna, but Brenna didn¡¯t pick up the call for a long while.


    Right as the call was seconds from cutting off, Brenna answered it, her voice clipped. ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°I want to talk to you about something important. Can we talk in person?¡± Isabe said.


    Brenna ended the call and checked the time; it was already eleven in the morning.


    Her face remained impassive as she weighed the possibility that Isabe was luring her into a trap.


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 Chapter 680

    Chapter 680:


    She quickly summoned Joe.


    Joe oversaw finance and big data operations. He had a demanding role that kept him swamped. Since his recent trip to Plieca, the workload in April had surged.


    He was starting to see that his team of roughly a dozen was stretched too thin.


    Though his staff were highly skilled, overworking them wasn¡¯t sustainable; expanding the team with new hires was the smarter move.


    Joe soon arrived and settled into the chair across from Brenna, his face betraying a trace of exhaustion. The relentless overtime and mounting tasks were taking their toll on him.


    ¡°Here¡¯s the business report for the past two weeks¡ªtake a look,¡± he said, sliding a hefty stack of documents across the desk. Brenna scanned the detailed analyses and financial data.


    Joe continued, ¡°Since the Plieca trip, our workload has spiked. We just wrapped up a cross-border payment project, and there are multiple blockchain-based payment initiatives in progress, plus market risk assessments for several firms. Brenna, my team is spread too thin. Can we bring on more people?¡±


    Brenna reviewed the performance evaluations, impressed by Joe¡¯s efforts.


    She said, ¡°Of course. We don¡¯t have an HR department yet, so I¡¯ll talk to Ethan tonight about having his HR team recruit for us. How many people do you think we need?¡±


    Joe thought briefly. ¡°Hiring too many people at once won¡¯t work. I would say ten with at least five years of experience and about thirty recent graduates. The veterans can guide the neers, who should pick things up fast.¡±


    Brenna nodded in agreement. ¡°Put together a recruitment n and send it to me. Also, are you keeping tabs on the projects Jade left behind?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Jade left some drug trade projects, but the bigger issue is the venture capital work in finance¡ªthings like microloans and online loans. The Wagner family absorbed half of those projects and funds, but they¡¯re struggling with the other half. Word is, they¡¯ve hit a technical snag, and progress has stalled.¡±


    ¡°That exins it. Denis just invited me to a meal to talk business. You¡¯reing with me.¡±


    Fresh chapters are live at g¦Á?¦Ç¦Òv???s


    Brenna flipped through the documents, noting the heavy demands on the finance and big data teams. She had been focused on mechanical engineering and design recently and hadn¡¯t paid much attention to Joe¡¯s tasks.


    ¡°You¡¯ve done great work; thanks for holding it down,¡± she said with a small smile, handing the documents back. ¡°Get ready; we¡¯re leaving in fifteen minutes.¡±


    In an exclusive private dining room at a high-end restaurant, Isabe¡¯s impatience was palpable. ¡°I checked with my mom. Brenna has been with the Barrett family for years, and there¡¯s never been a whisper about her knowing financial investments. Denis, you¡¯re probably being deceived. How could she solve what Shirie¡¯s top investment firm can¡¯t?¡±


    Her tone dripped with scorn as she continued, ¡°My mom says Brenna¡¯s only good at mechanical engineering and design, and even then, she¡¯s a third-rate talent. Those guest lectures at universities? Probably just scripted speeches someone else wrote for her to parrot. She¡¯s got no real skill. As for finance, she¡¯s definitely clueless.¡±


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 Chapter 681

    ?Chapter 681:


    Denis had heard from a colleague that Brenna ran an exceptional finance studio, capable of tackling cases that stumped industry veterans.


    Initially doubtful, he was swayed when the colleague shared that theirpany had worked with Brenna and raved about her abilities.


    That was when Denis decided to take a chance on her. Isabe, however, remained unconvinced and had consulted Jordy, a finance expert familiar with the industry¡¯s top yers.


    Jordy knew of a remarkable studio that, just six months ago, had helped a major Norviewpany navigate market risks, averting a fifteen-billion-dor loss.


    He had only recently learned it was Brenna¡¯s studio after a casual chat with colleagues.


    It dawned on him that he had severely underestimated his highly capable ex-girlfriend, and he even toyed with the idea of getting back with her.


    Denis, also skeptical, wasn¡¯t ready to fully trust his colleague¡¯s ims without seeing Brenna¡¯s skills for himself.


    ¡°Let¡¯s test her. When she gets here, we¡¯ll see what she can do,¡± he said.


    Isabe sneered, ¡°She¡¯s just a pretty face, using her looks to fool people. Do you really buy into that? Hand our business to her, and she¡¯ll bankrupt us.¡±


    Jordy disagreed, saying, ¡°You don¡¯t know her, so quit spouting nonsense. I believe in her. When she shows up, don¡¯t say anything to sabotage this deal. If you do, I¡¯ll¡­¡±


    He trailed off, swallowing the rest of his warning in Denis¡¯s presence.


    Brenna stepped into the room in a crisp white shirt, the sleeves neatly rolled up, with a sleek gray vestyered over the shirt. Paired with tailored ck trousers, she carried herself with a professional aura. Her makeup was impable, and her hair flowed in elegant waves.


    Her transformation was striking. Gone was the girl-next-door charm. In its ce stood a woman radiating confidence. When Jordyid eyes on Brenna, he was momentarily stunned. This wasn¡¯t the Brenna he had known six months ago. She was no longer the timid girl who had quietly endured one humiliation after another in the Barrett household. In the past, Brenna¡¯s wardrobe had been all simple white tees, jeans, and worn sneakers. She hadn¡¯t been looking this radiant before.


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    Wearing a navy-blue suit, Joe followed Brenna, a ck briefcase in hand. He looked polished and business-ready.


    As he and Brenna entered the private room, neither of them bothered with greetings. Without a word, they sat down.


    Isabe, never one to hide her disdain, seized the moment to throw a jab. ¡°Well, well, well, Ms. Harper. Quite the entrance. No greetings, no pleasantries. Are you really here to discuss a business deal with us? I don¡¯t see even a shred of sincerity in you.¡±


    Jordy chuckled lightly and turned to Brenna. ¡°Brenna, it¡¯s been a while. You¡¯ve grown even more beautiful than I remember.¡±


    Brenna sensed Jordy¡¯s ulterior motives and met his gaze with a cool detachment. ¡°Thank you for thepliment. Now, let¡¯s get to the point. I don¡¯t have time for small talk.¡±


    ¡°Oh, give me a break,¡± Isabe scoffed, her words dripping with venom. ¡°Don¡¯t act like you are from some rich family. We all remember you back then¡ªscrubbing floors, cooking meals, and cleaning up after everyone in the Barrett house. You were practically a maid. So quit the act. The fact that we¡¯re even willing to work with you is a favor.¡±


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 Chapter 682

    ?Chapter 682:


    Brenna¡¯s jaw tightened. Beside her, Joe slightly leaned forward in anger and spoke up. ¡°Who do you think you are? You¡¯ve got a lot of nerve talking to Brenna like that. If you¡¯re not here to discuss the business deal, then we¡¯re done. We¡¯ll leave now.¡±


    Isabe opened her mouth to speak, only to be silenced by a p across her face.


    She whipped around and, with her hand to her cheek, stared at Denis in disbelief. ¡°You¡­ You pped me?¡±


    But Denis barely spared her a nce. He was locked on his phone, eyes scanning the document Brenna had sent just minutes earlier. He had doubted Brenna¡¯s abilities, so she had sent him a case¡ªa detailed case study from Norview, an example of apany that had narrowly avoided a crushing fifteen-billion-dor loss. The case was famous. If Brenna¡¯s team had really handled this case, then she might just have the ability to pull him out of the mess he was in now.


    ¡°Shut up. Do you even hear yourself? She¡¯s not stooping to your level because she knows better. You¡¯re the one making a fool of yourself!¡± Denis snapped at Isabe before turning to Brenna with an apologetic smile. ¡°Ms. Harper, please don¡¯t pay her any mind. I apologize on her behalf.¡±


    Jordy, still having lingering feelings for Brenna, saw his chance to step in. There was a time when he had pursued her with the hope of rekindling what they had once had. But when it became clear she had moved on, he had given up on that, though his interest never truly faded.


    ¡°Exactly, Brenna,¡± Jordy said smoothly. ¡°Don¡¯t waste your energy on her. You know how Isabe is. She¡¯s nothing but a fool.¡±


    Isabe shot Jordy a re. ¡°How dare you call me a fool? You think you are so smart?¡±


    His patience wearing thin, Denis mmed a hand down on the table. ¡°Enough! If you¡¯re going to keep arguing, then get out.¡±


    That was enough to silence Isabe, though the fury in her eyes didn¡¯t fade. She shot Brenna a seething look, waiting for any chance to strike. Frustrated, she began texting Rosie and telling her everything that had happened.


    Denis pulled a stack of documents from his bag. He ced them in front of Brenna and said, ¡°Ms. Harper, please review these documents and tell me if you can help me fix the problem. If you do, I¡¯m willing to pay ten million dors.¡±


    Brenna took half the stack and passed the rest to Joe. The two of them scanned each page with practiced eyes.


    As Brenna had suspected, the root of the issuey in loans that had originated from Jade¡¯s team. Though the money had slowly begun to circle back, the entire system had been locked down withyers of encryption.


    Denis couldn¡¯t ess the funds, nor could he transfer ownership of the loanpanies under his name. Desperate for a way out, he had asked for Brenna¡¯s help.


    Brenna handed the documents in her hand to Joe. ¡°Ten million is too low,¡± she said to Denis.


    Denis chuckled dryly. ¡°Ms. Harper, you¡¯ve got quite the appetite. For you, this should only take a few days. Isn¡¯t ten million enough?¡±


    ¡°Exactly!¡± Isabe interjected. ¡°How much more do you want? Ten million is more than fair. For apany like yours, this has to be the biggest deal you¡¯ve evernded. Take it or leave it. We can easily find someone else.¡±


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 Chapter 683

    ?Chapter 683:


    Joe¡¯s patience wore thin. He tossed the documents aside and abruptly stood up. ¡°Let¡¯s go, Brenna.¡±


    Brenna stood up as well.


    rmed, Denis shot up and stopped them. ¡°Wait! If ten million¡¯s not enough, I¡¯ll raise it. Thirteen million. How about that?¡±


    He had wed his way through sleepless nights and ruthless negotiations. He had also barely dodged gangsters who would have been happy to see him fail. Every dor in his pocket had been earned with grit, and the thought of parting with even a fraction more made his teeth clench.


    Seething at the idea of Brenna walking away with more money, Isabe said, ¡°No way! Can¡¯t you just bump it up by a hundred thousand? Why throw in so much?¡±


    ¡°Stay out of it!¡± Denis barked. He wasn¡¯t about to let her ruin this deal.


    If Brenna solved his problem, he stood to make at least five billion dors.


    Isabe eyed Brenna with tant scorn, sneering as she tilted her head. To her, Brenna would forever be the pathetic doormat of the Barrett family. How dare she act as if she were above her?


    Brenna was obviously putting on an act. What could she possibly know about finance?


    Moving funds from Jade¡¯s corporate ount to Denis¡¯s wasn¡¯t a simple task. Isabe and Denis both knew it demanded advanced hacking skills. Did Brenna possess those skills?


    Likely, she just had a couple of tech wizards on her team.


    Isabe¡¯s gaze on Brenna dripped with contempt; she was convinced Brenna was the world¡¯s biggest fraud.


    She nudged Denis¡¯s arm, muttering, ¡°Don¡¯t buy her act. Thirteen million is plenty.¡±


    Denis thought the same. He had consulted numerous experts¡ªsome from Vand, others overseas, including top-tier hackers¡ªbut none could help him transfer the funds.


    Gal no ve l s . hosts your favorite stories


    If Jade¡¯s entire financial team hadn¡¯t perished, and if her ounts weren¡¯t locked behindyers of encryption, he would never have stooped to asking Brenna for help.


    ¡°Thirteen million, not a penny more, Ms. Harper. For you, that¡¯s two days¡¯ work at most. It¡¯s more than enough; don¡¯t get greedy,¡± he said.


    Isabe smirked. ¡°Exactly. Your little studio probably takes half a year to pull in that kind of money.¡±


    Sure, Brenna had once helped apany recover fifty billion, but those kinds of gigs were rare.


    Isabe believed a deal of thirteen million was a major one for Brenna. She continued, ¡°So? Have you made up your mind? This chance won¡¯te twice. Deals like this don¡¯t just fall from the sky. If you pass, we¡¯ll find someone else.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. This is yourst chance.¡±


    Denis nodded, though he knew better than Isabe¡ªBrenna was likely the only one who could pull this off. Still, in his view, Brenna¡¯s help was worth no more than thirteen million.


    Brenna¡¯s icy stare swept over them. She didn¡¯t want to waste any more time on these selfish opportunists.


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 Chapter 684

    ?Chapter 684:


    Joe let out a sharp, mockingugh. ¡°Mr. Wagner, you have really outdone yourself. You¡¯ve been gobbling up Jade¡¯s business and funds like a vulture, pocketing hundreds of billions in just over a month. Your operations have doubled, and now you want us to secure over ten billion in cash for you for a pathetic thirteen million? Do you take us for fools?¡±


    Denis froze, staring at Joe in shock. He had been meticulous, instructing his team to keep things hushed, ensuring no one knew the full extent of what he had funneled from Jade¡¯s holdings.


    He had never imagined a mid-level manager from a small finance studio would be so clued in. Stammering, he asked, ¡°H-How do you know that?¡±


    He even began to suspect a traitor in his team.


    Joe smirked. ¡°You¡¯ve been snatching Jade¡¯s assets in the most tant way possible. Everyone in Shirie knows about it, and you¡¯re asking how I found out about that? There¡¯s no such thing as the perfect secret. If you did something, people will know eventually.¡±


    The words shook Denis. He shot a suspicious nce at Jordy, who had yed a key role in his operations and profited handsomely. Jordy caught the look and quickly shook his head. ¡°Don¡¯t pin this on me. I didn¡¯t say a word.¡±


    Denis¡¯s eyes then shifted to Isabe. He had made a fortune recently and spent nearly two hundred million on her.


    Isabe scrambled to defend herself, saying, ¡°It wasn¡¯t me, Denis. I would never sell you out.¡±


    ¡°Everyone in Shirie knows?¡± Denis mumbled, grappling with the idea. But so what? On paper, his moves were backed by airtight legal documents and proper procedures. He wasn¡¯t worried, even if the authorities came knocking.


    ¡°You¡¯re just saying this to squeeze more money out of me, aren¡¯t you? Fine¡ªname your price.¡±


    He braced himself, ready to bleed a little. No matter what, he needed to get the funds.


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    Joe nced at Brenna and then said to Denis coolly, ¡°Half of the money.¡±


    ¡°Have you lost your mind?¡± Denis eximed, floored. ¡°You¡¯re both way too greedy for demanding that amount! I don¡¯t think there¡¯s any point continuing this discussion.¡±


    Isabe and Jordy were just as stunned. To them, Brenna and Joe were reaching for the stars. Given Denis¡¯s selfishness, surrendering half was unthinkable. He would never agree.


    Isabe couldn¡¯t hold back her outrage. ¡°Get real! You haven¡¯t done a single thing¡ªjust some typing¡ªand you expect half? Do you evenprehend how much money that is?¡±


    Joe and Brenna had yed these high-stakes games before; that was why they had gotten on the Ward family¡¯s bad side.


    They knew Denis wouldn¡¯t budge. They hadn¡¯t anticipated closing the deal in one meeting anyway. Silently, they turned to leave.


    Denis moved to stop them, but Isabe held him back.


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 Chapter 685

    ?Chapter 685:


    She said, ¡°Let them walk. They¡¯re too greedy. Denis, we¡¯ll find someone else. I refuse to believe that there¡¯s no one else out there who can handle this.¡±


    ¡°Insane. Absolutely insane!¡± Isabe screamed, her voice echoing in the room. She stormed to the doorway and hurled her fury at Brenna¡¯s back. ¡°You¡¯re so obsessed with money that it has made you lose your mind! Who do you even think you are? Just because you¡¯re the Harper family¡¯s daughter, you think you can always get what you want? Asking for half? Are you out of your mind? No sane person would say something that ridiculous.¡±


    Jordy and Denis locked eyes, their faces hardening with anger. Brenna wasn¡¯t just greedy; she was also cunning. She knew the money was dirty, so she had the audacity to demand such a big slice.


    Denis let out a coldugh. ¡°She¡¯s ying with fire. I won¡¯t let her seed.¡±


    Jordy kept his gaze on the elevator, watching as Brenna¡¯s figure disappeared behind the closing doors. ¡°She really walked away?¡± He had thought it was just a bluff to squeeze out a better deal. He hadn¡¯t expected Brenna to actually leave.


    Now he realized that Brenna was far more ambitious than he¡¯d ever imagined.


    ¡°Denis, do we have anyone else we can pull in?¡± Jordy asked.


    Denis shook his head. ¡°We¡¯ve tried everyone. Four of the top five hackers in the world¡­ We brought them in and paid through the nose, but not one pulled it off. The one at the top is a ghost. No one even knows if they are a man or a woman, or how to find them.¡±


    He let out a deep sigh. ¡°Half of the money¡­ That¡¯s insane. But if someone could just talk her down a little, I¡¯m willing to give her one hundred million. That¡¯s as far as I go. Jordy, didn¡¯t you use to date Brenna? You two were even engaged before. Maybe she still has a soft spot for you. Could you talk to her?¡±


    The truth was, Jordy wasn¡¯t sure if he could persuade Brenna. Brenna was with Ethan now. She probably didn¡¯t see him as anyone important anymore. Still, it wouldn¡¯t hurt to try.


    ¡°I¡¯ll give it a shot,¡± he said.


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    If this deal went through, he stood to make at least a billion, maybe even two. Of course, he had to try.


    ¡°I¡¯ll set up a meeting with her.¡± Jordy pulled out his phone and called Brenna. It barely rang twice before she cut the call.


    Isabe saw that and let out a cold snort. ¡°With the way you are now, Brenna wouldn¡¯t nce at you twice. After all, the richest man in this world is her boyfriend.¡±


    Jordy¡¯s fists clenched at his sides. It was bad enough that Brenna had brushed him off, but to also have Isabe throwing jabs at him? That was too much.


    ¡°You¡¯re one to talk. You¡ª¡± he shot back, but Denis¡¯s sharp nce cut him short.


    Isabe might not havee from a prestigious family, but she was Denis¡¯s girlfriend. She wasn¡¯t someone Jordy could afford to cross.


    Isabeughed mockingly. ¡°Who do you think you are? Just a bootlicker for the Wagner family. Don¡¯t act so arrogant in front of me. If you think you are so capable, go convince Brenna!¡±


    Jordy was furious but was smart enough not tosh out at her. ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll go. At worst, I¡¯ll throw in more money. I refuse to believe Brenna would walk away from a deal this big.¡±


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 Chapter 686

    ?Chapter 686:


    As soon as Jordy left, Isabe turned to Denis andined, ¡°What now? Brenna wouldn¡¯t even budge for thirteen million. That¡¯s already a generous offer. Sure, she is the daughter of the Harper family and Ethan¡¯s girlfriend. But so what? She thinks she¡¯s too good for thirteen million? How dare she ask for so much more? She is too greedy!¡±


    Denis nced at her, a flicker of satisfaction crossing his face. Isabe was always in his corner, always thinking from his side. That loyalty meant more to him than he liked to admit.


    He said, ¡°Didn¡¯t your mother raise her? Maybe she could talk some sense into Brenna. She might soften if ites from your mother.¡±


    At that, Isabe¡¯s face clouded over. ¡°My mom? Come on, Denis. You really don¡¯t know, do you? She¡¯s the reason my family fell apart. We went bankrupt because of her. When my family had nowhere to turn, we went to Brenna¡¯s ce and begged for help, but she mmed the door in our faces. Brenna is heartless. She would never listen to my mom.¡±


    Denis¡¯s mood soured. The deal was slipping through his fingers, but he refused to lose half the profit to secure it.


    He said, ¡°Just try. What if she softens up? Have your mom y the part. Beg Brenna if she has to. Brenna can¡¯t be that heartless.¡±


    Isabe nodded. ¡°Fine. I¡¯ll call my mom and ask her to try.¡±


    ¡°Good.¡±


    Meanwhile, Brenna and Joe had found a table on the first floor of the restaurant and ordered a simple meal.


    Joe leaned back in his chair and nced around with an easy smile. ¡°Nice ce. It seems popr.¡±


    Across the room, Jordy stood near the staircase. He watched Brenna and Joe from a distance. He figured it was better to give Brenna some space; maybe she would change her mind soon.


    And with Joe there, Jordy knew it wasn¡¯t the right time for him to approach Brenna.


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    If he wanted to bring up the past, it would have to be when they were alone.


    After lunch, Brenna and Joe left the restaurant together and headed back to the office.


    When it was time to get off work, Brenna received a call from Ruby.


    The moment she answered the call, Ruby¡¯s voice came through. It was unexpectedly soft and almost unfamiliar. ¡°Brenna, mommy misses you. Let¡¯s have dinner tonight. Just the two of us.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s fingers tightened around her phone. She didn¡¯t want to waste her time on Ruby at all.


    ¡°I can¡¯t. I have ns tonight. If that¡¯s all, I¡¯m hanging up,¡± she replied tly.


    Ruby panicked. ¡°Don¡¯t hang up! Please, Brenna, I really miss you. I know I treated you badly before. I know you hate me. I¡¯ve been thinking about youtely and feeling so guilty. Please¡­ just give me a chance. There¡¯s so much I want to say to you.¡±


    Ruby disconnected the call, her smile disappearing as her face contorted with spite. ¡°That little brat hasn¡¯t changed¡ªstill so smug and cold. What kind of behavior is that? How did I raise such a thing?¡±


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 Chapter 687

    ?Chapter 687:


    Isabe, hovering nearby, asked nervously, ¡°Mom, did she say yes?¡±


    Ruby scoffed, ¡°Of course, she agreed. I might not have treated her well, but I raised her for twenty years. If she dares brush me off again, I¡¯ll spill everything online and show the world what a cold-hearted person she is.¡±


    Relieved, Isabe quickly texted Denis.


    Then, she said, ¡°Thanks for helping me, Mom.¡±


    Ruby knew her situation well. She patted Isabe¡¯s hand softly, her face warm. ¡°Our family¡¯s livingfortably now, all because of Denis. He has given us so much, so it¡¯s only right we do a few favors for him. If we just take without giving, he¡¯ll get displeased. I won¡¯t let you be in a bind, dear. And Mack¡ªhe¡¯s a deputy VP at the Wagner Group now, thanks to Denis¡¯s promotion. We owe Denis a lot.¡±


    Isabe smiled and nodded. ¡°You¡¯re right, Mom. I didn¡¯t get to rub it in Brenna¡¯s face today, but tonight, I¡¯ll make sure she knows that we¡¯re thriving without the Harper family¡¯s help. We don¡¯t need her.¡±


    Ruby quickly disagreed, saying, ¡°No, you can¡¯t do that. Tonight, we need to make Brenna think we¡¯re thankful, that we genuinely want to patch things up. I¡¯ll even say sorry for the past. We need to help Denis lock in this deal first.¡±


    Isabe nodded eagerly. ¡°You¡¯re so smart, Mom. We¡¯ll do it your way. Denis said if I can get Brenna to agree to the deal, he¡¯ll pay me this much.¡±


    She shed two fingers, beaming.


    Rubyughed heartily. ¡°Perfect! For that kind of cash, I¡¯ll make Brenna feel all the motherly love in the world. Don¡¯t worry; I¡¯ve got this. Tell me, do you think she¡¯s doing well with the Harpers?¡±


    Isabe shook her head. ¡°Doubt it. If she was livingrge, why would she hustle so hard with that tiny studio of hers? The Harpers probably don¡¯t care for her. Bet they don¡¯t give her a dime, so she has to scrape by on her own.¡±


    Ruby nodded thoughtfully. ¡°Alright. Then all I need to do is show her a bit of kindness, and she¡¯ll be sobbing with gratitude. This will be easy.¡±


    ???????? ???????? ???? ???? ????????????????: g????????¦Í????????????


    ¡°Exactly. I hung around Rosie for a bit, and she was always trying to sabotage Brenna. Said Brenna was just as cold with the Harpers as she had been with us¡ªhardly¡­


    She responds when people talk to her. With that attitude, no wonder the Harpers don¡¯t like her.¡±


    ¡°That personality of hers is indeed unlikeable. Who would keep being kind to someone who gives them the brush-off? People like her get shunned wherever they go. I bet even Ethan doesn¡¯t really care for her; he¡¯ll probably ditch her soon.¡±


    Ruby had recently started mingling with other rich housewives, ying cards and soaking up gossip about Brenna.


    Isabe agreedpletely, saying, ¡°Totally. Who could put up with her? I heard her future mother-inw despises her and even set Ethan up with someone new. The girl is in the secretary department at the Mitchell Group now and sees Ethan every day. She¡¯s bound to take him away from Brenna. Who knows who will end up as Ethan¡¯s wife in the future?¡±


    Both Ruby and Isabe were convinced Ethan would soon break up with Brenna.


    As they dished out gossip, the doorbell chimed. Isabe went to answer it.


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 Chapter 688

    ?Chapter 688:


    ¡°Dad? What are you doing here?¡± she asked, caught off guard. Ever since Alec had married his mistress L and started a new life, he had stayed away from them. His showing up today was unexpected.


    Isabe blocked the doorway, reluctant to let him in.


    Ruby heard the noise and walked over. Seeing Alec, her fury erupted. ¡°What do you want? Get lost. You¡¯re not wee here.¡±


    Outside, Alec stood in in clothes. Compared to a few months ago, he looked aged, his posture stooped, his hair noticeably grayer.


    ¡°This is my son¡¯s house. My daughter¡¯s house. Why can¡¯t Ie here?¡±


    Alec¡¯s shamelessness had grown. He pushed past the two women and barged inside. ¡°You¡¯re living pretty well, huh? Why should you get to enjoy this? I want to live here, too!¡±


    Ruby was enraged. She grabbed Alec, trying to haul him out. ¡°Get out! When you abandoned us, the three of us were nearly homeless; you didn¡¯t give a damn about us at that time. Now that we¡¯re finally doing well and you¡¯re down on your luck, you think you can juste back? We don¡¯t pity you. You made your bed; lie in it. Leave, or I¡¯m calling the police!¡±


    Alec was consumed by regret. This house surpassed the one he had owned at the height of his sess.


    He had heard whispers that Ruby was thriving, raising their son and daughter infort. Desperate, he had reached out to Mack multiple times, pleading for cash and leaning on his woes, but Mack didn¡¯t budge. Instead, Mack had unleashed a torrent of insults and swore to cut him off for good.


    He was getting old. Despite his extensive background in corporate leadership, employers overlooked him, leaving him with menial tasks like car washing or janitorial work¡ªjobs he deemed unworthy of his stature.


    However, his wife, L, once his mistress, said that he was still shy of sixty and had no justification for idling at home, dependent on her ie. She questioned how he could live so shamelessly off her earnings.


    Initially, when L had weed him into her life, she had doted on him, preparing his meals and caring for his needs with warmth. However, as time passed, even the most patient woman would tire of a man unwilling to contribute financially.


    g ? ln¦Ò ¦Í?? ?s, your storytelling home


    Tensions between them had red, and Alec and L¡¯s disputes became relentless. It was L who suggested that Alec turn to his children for financial help.


    Her paycheck, she argued, couldn¡¯t sustain their family of three, and Alec needed to find a solution.


    Though he resented the idea of asking his children for money, Alec knew he had no choice.


    Their child¡¯s private tutoring drained nearly twenty thousand monthly, and L¡¯s beauty regimen demanded a simr sum, ranging from thousands to tens of thousands.


    L was unwavering; she refused topromise her lifestyle. If Alec couldn¡¯t secure funds, she threatened divorce, unwilling to continue supporting him financially.


    Desperate, Alec contemted returning to his ex-wife. That was why he hade here today.


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 Chapter 689

    ?Chapter 689:


    Spotting the plush leather couch, he sank into it, dering, ¡°This is my son¡¯s house, my daughter¡¯s house; why can¡¯t I live here?¡±


    d in rumpled attire with an arrogant demeanor, he bore no resemnce to the polished CEO of the Barrett Group he had once been. Ruby, repulsed, saw him as no better than a beggar. Her disgust was palpable as she tugged at him, shouting, ¡°Get out, Alec! Don¡¯t ruin my furniture!¡±


    Alec, physically stronger, pushed her aside and sprawled defiantly on the couch. ¡°You won¡¯t be able to kick me out! My kids live here; I belong here!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re despicable! I¡¯ve never met anyone so shameless!¡± Ruby eximed, her anger surging. She reached for her phone to call the authorities, but Alec swatted it from her grip. It fell to the floor, and the screen broke.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Ruby shrieked, her voice breaking with fury. Unfazed, Alec turned to Isabe. ¡°Isabe, you¡¯re my daughter. When you first joined the Barrett family, didn¡¯t I treat you kindly? You can¡¯t turn your back on me now. I know you¡¯re a good daughter; you¡¯ll look after me, right?¡±


    Isabe was dumbfounded. Truthfully, when she had first arrived at the Barrett family, Alec had indeed treated her well, even ousting Brenna for her.


    But the Alec she liked was the affluent one, not this insolent freeloader. She said, ¡°Dad, you and Mom are divorced. It¡¯s not right for you to stay here. Please go; don¡¯t make this difficult for me.¡±


    Alec scoffed, ¡°So I raised you for nothing? Do you know how much I spent on you before?¡±


    Isabe was stunned that Alec would dredge up the past now.


    ¡°You did that of your own ord! And now, you want to hold it against her?¡± Ruby, seething, pointed at him. ¡°I can¡¯t believe how shameless you¡¯ve be.¡±


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t talking to you! Be quiet. You haven¡¯t worked a day in years; I provided for you! You livedfortably because of me. And now that I¡¯m struggling, you want to abandon me? No chance. Repay every penny I spent on you, and I¡¯ll leave. Until then, I¡¯m not leaving.¡±


    Left with no choice, Isabe dialed Mack.


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    ¡°Dad hase home and won¡¯t leave. What do I do? Come home soon.¡±


    Mack held a mid-level management position at the Wagner Group. His performance at work was decent.


    The situation infuriated him. ¡°He and L showed no mercy when they tossed us out back then. Now that we¡¯re seeding, he thinks he can just waltz back into our lives? No way!¡±


    ¡°Mom said the same thing, but he¡¯s refusing to budge,¡± Isabe replied.


    ¡°Hold on. I¡¯ll get in touch with neighborhood security to have him removed. I am tied up at work and can¡¯t leave right now,¡± Mack said.


    ¡°All right,¡± Isabe said before hanging up.


    Alec, unbothered by Isabe¡¯s attempt to summon help,id out his terms bluntly. ¡°I provided for your mother, your brother, and you before. I¡¯m not asking for the world; just hand over a hundred million, and I¡¯ll vanish from your lives forever. If not, I won¡¯t leave.¡±


    Within minutes, the neighborhood¡¯s security team showed up. This was a luxury area, known for its top-notch management, and the guards had a reputation for fast, no-nonsense responses.


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 Chapter 690

    ?Chapter 690:


    They knew exactly who lived in the area and acted swiftly on their instructions, showing no regard for Alec¡¯s supposed ties to the owner of the house.


    Without hesitation, the guards forcibly escorted Alec out of the area. Ruby, still furious, cursed Alec out for a while before she finally calmed down.


    Later that evening, she and Isabe made a point to book a table at a refined, upscale restaurant for their meeting with Brenna.


    When Brenna arrived, her eyes briefly caught a figure loitering near the entrance. The lighting made it hard to see clearly, and she figured it was just a homeless person.


    ¡°Brenna, this way!¡± Ruby stood up quickly when she noticed Brenna, waving with exaggerated excitement before hurrying over and linking arms with her.


    The gesture was new to Brenna. During her time in the Barrett household, Alec had been the only one who had shown her anything close to kindness. Ruby and Mack, on the other hand, had never treated her well.


    Brenna pulled her arm away. ¡°I¡¯m really not used to this.¡±


    Ruby came to the dinner with one goal¡ªto win Brenna over. Still, beneath her polished exterior, bitterness simmered. She¡¯d cursed Brenna in her thoughts more times than she could count, but her face wore the picture of grace. That cool, indifferent look Brenna always wore made her want to scream, yet she didn¡¯t let it show.


    With a dazzling smile, sheunched into small talk. ¡°We shared a home for so many years. It¡¯s been months since Ist saw you, and I honestly missed you. You¡¯ve changed; you look more polished and beautiful now. The Harper family clearly knows how to raise someone right.¡±


    Brenna let Ruby lead the way to their table, her face unreadable. She said nothing, just watching Ruby put on an act.


    ¡°Skip the performance. What do you want?¡± Brenna¡¯s tone was sharp.


    Ruby let out a light, awkwardugh. ¡°I only invited you here because I missed you. That¡¯s all. I just thought we could share a meal and talk about the past.¡±


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    A faint smile tugged at Brenna¡¯s lips. She knew Ruby was skilled at pretending. Back when she had lived with the Barrett family, Ruby had been the perfect picture of kindness and care whenever outsiders were around.


    Yet the moment the guests were gone, Ruby¡¯s demeanor would shift. Ruby wouldsh out, calling her ungrateful, a burden, and constantly whining about how she didn¡¯t make enough money for the family. None of it had faded from Brenna¡¯s memory. She didn¡¯t understand why Ruby seemed to have forgotten all about that.


    ¡°The past? You mean when you yelled at me, starved me, and forced me to make money for you?¡± Brenna¡¯s voice was calm as she nced at the dishes on the table. They were all dishes she used to like when she had lived with the Barrett family.


    For just a second, Ruby¡¯s smile cracked, but she quicklyposed herself, even as her insides churned with frustration over Brenna¡¯s bluntness.


    ¡°Oh, don¡¯t be like that. I¡¯ll admit I wasn¡¯t perfect, but that¡¯s all behind us now. I did raise you, didn¡¯t I? You can¡¯t deny that. The Harper family may treat you well now, but they weren¡¯t there when you were a child. You can¡¯t pretend my family and I didn¡¯t give you a home when you were young. We helped shape you into who you are.¡±


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 Chapter 691

    ?Chapter 691:


    Isabe said, ¡°My mom¡¯s right. What¡¯s done is done. She¡¯s not here to ask you for anything. Can¡¯t we just have a peaceful meal together?¡±


    Brenna gave a low, indifferent hum, her eyes fixed on Isabe with quiet amusement. If acting had been her path, Isabe could¡¯ve gone far¡ªshe was a master at pretending nothing had ever happened. Isabe had tried to humiliate her not long ago, but now, she was acting like that had never happened.


    ¡°You seem to be livingfortably these days.¡± Brenna made a mental note¡ªthis would be the final time she would interact with these two.


    A gleaming gold ne rested around Ruby¡¯s neck, its gemstone pendant catching the light with every movement. Her clothes screamed luxury, and the handbag on the seat beside her was clearly expensive.


    Letting out a strainedugh, Ruby said, ¡°All credit goes to Isabe. If she hadn¡¯t stepped in to help, I¡¯d probably be out on the street by now.¡±


    Even as the words left her lips, her thoughts drifted bitterly to that day at the Harper family¡¯s residence¡ªhow Brenna had looked her in the eye and turned her away without the slightest hesitation.


    Swallowing her pride just to y nice with Brenna now made her feel angry. The humiliation wed at her insides, and every calm word from Brenna only fueled her urge to p her.


    ¡°Oh really? I¡¯ve been hearing whispers that Isabe and Denis are a thing now,¡± Brenna said lightly, turning her attention to Isabe. ¡°It¡¯s been a while, hasn¡¯t it? Any wedding ns on the horizon?¡±


    Brenna wasn¡¯t just making casual conversation. She had heard the rumors about Denis and Isabe, and how he had no intention of marrying her. The Wagner family had already chosen a bride for Denis, a woman from the Russell family.


    The words hit Isabe like a p, and her face darkened immediately. Brenna had struck right at the core of her insecurities. She had raised the topic of marriage with Denis countless times, only to be met with harsh reprimands. She was reminded that she wasn¡¯t good enough to be his wife.


    ¡°We will get married soon,¡± Isabe replied, her teeth clenched, trying to suppress the fury bubbling beneath the surface. Her purpose for this dinner had all but vanished in the wake of her frustration.


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    After a pause, she shot back, her voice edged with venom, ¡°What about you and Mr. Mitchell? When are you going to get married? I¡¯ve heard Mr. Mitchell¡¯s mother has set him up with another woman, even arranging for her to work in his office. Is that true?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s eyes met Isabe¡¯s, her stare steady. She was surprised Isabe knew so much, even about this particr issue.


    It appeared Minna¡¯s circumstances had already spread like wildfire among the elite. Brenna wondered if people were merely waiting for her to make a fool of herself.


    Could Elsa be the one fueling the gossip? Brenna couldn¡¯t be sure.


    ¡°Yes, I do have some rivals in love,¡± Brenna admitted.


    Isabe¡¯s smile widened, her spirits noticeably lifting. ¡°Do you really think you cane out on top? I heard Mr. Mitchell¡¯s mother is quite taken with the woman she chose for him.¡±


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 Chapter 692

    ?Chapter 692:


    Brenna sensed Isabe¡¯s eagerness, almost as if she was rooting for her to lose to Minna.


    ¡°It¡¯s true, Ethan¡¯s mother favors Minna. But Ethan doesn¡¯t share her preference,¡± Brenna stated candidly.


    Isabe didn¡¯t believe her. ¡°You seem awfully sure of yourself. How can you be certain Mr. Mitchell isn¡¯t interested in her? Did he tell you himself? What if he follows his mother¡¯s wishes and marries Minna in the future?¡±


    Ruby, mindful of their visit¡¯s true purpose, noticed Isabe¡¯s words veering off track. She discreetly pinched her under the table. ¡°What are you going on about? Brenna is stunning and a Harper by birth. If I were Mr. Mitchell¡¯s mother, I would see Brenna as the far better choice for Ethan.¡±


    Isabe shot back, her tone sharp, ¡°Mom, what do you know about the matter? That woman was personally chosen by Mr. Mitchell¡¯s mother. Mr. Mitchell¡¯s mother has already made it clear she doesn¡¯t want Brenna to be with her son.¡±


    Ruby nced at Brenna, baffled as to why Ethan¡¯s mother would reject such an ideal daughter-inw. After all, Brenna was not only breathtaking but also aplished.


    She quickly thought of a reason and said, ¡°Brenna, hear me out¡ªyou need to change your demeanor. You oftene across as too cold. If you could be warmer, maybe try harder to win over your future mother-inw, she might change her mind and ept you.¡±


    Brenna gave a faint smile, not agreeing with Ruby¡¯s suggestion. Why would she change herself to tter others?


    With her current status and capabilities, she saw no need to curry favor with anyone.


    If Ethan couldn¡¯t ept that, she was willing to break up with him.


    Marriage wasn¡¯t a necessity in her eyes.


    Isabe, annoyed, snapped, ¡°Mom, why do you care about her so much? Do you think you¡¯re her real mother now?¡±


    Gal n o v el s . is your destination for fiction


    Ruby¡¯s eyes narrowed as she red at Isabe. ¡°Quiet! What¡¯s that supposed to mean? I¡¯ve raised Brenna for years; she¡¯s like a daughter to me. Of course, I care about her.¡±


    If Brenna didn¡¯t already know Ruby¡¯s true nature, she might have been moved by her.


    But she was well aware of Ruby¡¯s hypocrisy.


    Ruby continued speaking, urging Brenna to soften her edges and be more amodating.


    ¡°Listen to me, dear. If you want asting rtionship with Mr. Mitchell, you can¡¯t afford to offend his mother. Why not invite her to dinner, visit their home with Ethan, and make peace with her? Cook her a meal and say something kind.¡±


    Brenna, poised and unruffled, kept eating, her expression cool.


    ¡°Don¡¯t listen to her, Brenna! She¡¯s trying to harm you!¡± Alec¡¯s voice cut in abruptly as he appeared beside her.


    Brenna turned, recognizing the figure she had glimpsed earlier upon arriving. It was actually Alec.


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 Chapter 693

    ?Chapter 693:


    His worn clothing betrayed his recent struggles.


    ¡°Brenna, I¡¯ve missed you,¡± Alec said, dramatically wiping away imaginary tears before brazenly sitting down next to her.


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Ruby demanded, her voice thick with irritation.


    ¡°Did you follow us? How else would you know we¡¯re here?¡±


    Alec¡¯s tone was just as hostile. ¡°Follow you? I¡¯ve got better things to do than that!¡±


    After their bickering subsided, Brenna asked calmly, ¡°What exactly do you want from me, Ruby?¡±


    Ruby had been about to speak, sensing the moment was ripe, but Alec¡¯s sudden arrival had derailed her ns. She couldn¡¯t risk him learning about the billions she and her family were about to gain. ¡°I didn¡¯t want anything from you. I just missed you and wanted to catch up,¡± Ruby said.


    Brenna nodded, stood, and said, ¡°I¡¯m heading to the restroom.¡± She picked up her purse and walked away withposure.


    Ten minutester, Ruby¡¯s frustration grew as she watched Alec greedily eat the food before him. ¡°Why hasn¡¯t Brennae back? Did something happen?¡±


    Isabe scoffed, ¡°I doubt it.¡±


    Then it hit them both¡ªhad Brenna left without telling them? Ruby nudged Isabe. ¡°Go to the restroom and look for her.¡±


    Isabe dashed to the restroom, finding no one there.


    ¡°Mom, she¡¯s gone!¡±


    ¡°That wretched girl!¡± Ruby snatched her phone and called Brenna.


    Meanwhile, Alec, fearing Ruby might leave and leave him to pay the bill, seized the chance to slip away.


    Brenna had just reached her car when Ruby¡¯s name lit up her phone. She declined the call without a second thought.


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    Ruby, steeped in regret, fumed. She said to Isabe, ¡°It took so much to get Brenna to meet us, and now, your father has ruined it all!¡±


    She quickly typed a message to Brenna, urging her to reconsider Denis¡¯s offer and promising to meet her soon.


    After sending it, Ruby waited anxiously for a response. A deal worth hundreds of millions was on the line. She would not let it slip from her fingers.


    On her way home, Brenna swung by a dessert shop, grabbing a few pastries and a carton of milk for Patrick.


    But as she pulled into the driveway, her car was abruptly halted. Ruby and Isabe stood right at the gate, positioning themselves in her path. They had clearly recognized her car and stopped her on purpose.


    Sighing, Brenna stepped out of the car. Ruby offered a strained smile. ¡°Brenna, we¡¯re not here to cause trouble. We invited you to dinner because there¡¯s something important we need to talk about with you.¡±


    ¡°Fine. Come in.¡± Without looking back, Brenna signaled the security guard to take her car to the parking lot, then walked ahead to lead Ruby and Isabe inside.


    The living room was just as grand as always. Julia noticed their arrival and quickly set fresh coffee down in front of the guests.


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 Chapter 694

    ?Chapter 694:


    ¡°Have a seat,¡± Brenna said evenly, settling in herself with a ss of lemon water from Julia. She sipped, waiting in silence for Ruby to speak.


    Ruby had barely nced around thest few times she had been here, content in the belief that her own house, with its glossy finishes and designer furniture, was the best. But now, taking in the Harper estate¡¯s sweeping elegance and luxury, she was shocked.


    Compared to this, her house was nothing.


    The Harper family¡¯s house didn¡¯t just boast wealth; it exuded elegance in every trim and finish.


    She couldn¡¯t help but wonder how Brenna had managed tond in a life like this.


    Ruby had to admit it: Brenna was lucky. Meanwhile, her daughter had just wed her way back into the Barrett family, only for the family to go bankrupt. Now, her daughter was stuck ttering Denis to support the family.


    To say she wasn¡¯t envious of Brenna would be a lie.


    Ruby gave Isabe a slight nod. ¡°You can say it.¡±


    Isabe¡¯s lips twitched as she looked at Brenna¡ªcool,posed, irritatingly superior. The urge tosh out burned behind her eyes, but she bit it back. Pride wouldn¡¯t pay the bills.


    Forcing a smile, she said, ¡°Brenna, about what Denis brought up at lunch, have you made a decision? We really want to partner with you. Just name your price.¡±


    Brenna idly traced her finger along the rim of her porcin cup. ¡°Same as before. I want half of the funds you¡¯ll get.¡±


    Isabe was so angry she could barely hold back. Brenna was asking for too much.


    Ruby, sensing the outbursting, quickly reached over and pressed her hand over Isabe¡¯s to keep her in check.


    Isabe forced herself to calm down. ¡°Don¡¯t you think that¡¯s asking a bit much, Brenna? Please consider our offer earlier seriously. We really do want your help.¡±


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    She tried to sound sincere. ¡°Who demands fifty percent just for lending a hand? Isn¡¯t that a bit too much for a little favor?¡±


    Brenna took another sip of lemon water, unbothered, then ced the ss down with a soft clink. ¡°You, Denis, and Jordy have been taking a lot from Jade¡¯s business recently. Even if you didn¡¯t hit a trillion, you must¡¯ve pocketed about eighty billion by now. Isn¡¯t that pile of dirty money big enough already?¡±


    Shock locked Isabe¡¯s features in ce. How the hell did Brenna know so much?


    ¡°It¡¯s really not that much¡ªmaybe twenty billion at most. And we didn¡¯t just stumble into it, either. We risked everything to get that money. Doesn¡¯t that count for something?¡± Isabe softened her tone, trying to sound reasonable. ¡°Look, I¡¯ll double what we offered. Twenty-six million. That¡¯s more than fair, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    From Isabe¡¯s perspective, it was an easy win for Brenna¡ªjust a few taps on a keyboard, and she¡¯d walk away with a fortune. What more could she possibly want?


    Undeterred, Brenna held her ground. ¡°I want half of the funds. Not a cent less. Go back and talk to Denis. This isn¡¯t some easy side hustle. There¡¯s real risk involved.¡±


    Isabe understood she couldn¡¯t persuade Brenna.


    In the end, Ruby and Isabe could only leave.


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 Chapter 695

    ?Chapter 695:


    Brenna didn¡¯t even bother walking them out.


    From the stairs, Giselle descended slowly, her face tight with irritation. She had been lurking on thending long enough to hear everything, and her patience had worn thin. If Brenna hadn¡¯t tolerated Ruby and Isabe, she would¡¯ve tossed them out herself.


    ¡°What did they want?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Trying to pitch a project,¡± Brenna replied, taking a slow sip of her lemon water before rising, handbag in hand. She headed upstairs with¡­


    Still seething, Giselle said, ¡°Ruby has the audacity to talk to you like you two are close? Did she forget the way she treated you back then?¡±


    Brenna let out a quiet, amusedugh. ¡°That¡¯s exactly why I turned them down. If they want me on board, they need to y by my rules. I¡¯m not that timid little girl anymore.¡±


    That was when Giselle¡¯s lips finally curved in a smile. ¡°Exactly. How are things between you and Ethan? Is there anyone trying to stir up trouble for you?¡±


    She studied Brenna¡¯s face carefully. Word had already reached her about Elsa choosing a date for Ethan, and she couldn¡¯t help but worry.


    ¡°No,¡± Brenna replied. Her expression stayed calm, untouched by gossip or games. She hadn¡¯t been rattled by Elsa¡¯s maneuver, but since Giselle had asked, she didn¡¯t hold back¡ªshe told her everything, even showing her the chat history between Ethan and her.


    Giselle grinned and gave her a proud thumbs-up. ¡°That¡¯s my girl. Now, I won¡¯t worry that someone will dare push you around.¡±


    She gave a teasing hum. ¡°I was actually thinking of introducing you to a few promising bachelors myself. Just to remind Elsa that you are not exactlycking admirers.¡±


    On Friday morning, as Brenna settled into her office, Greta entered to report something to her.


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    ¡°Brenna, the Mitchell Group¡¯s HR team has scheduled the new financial analysts to start today. Your requested assistant is also on board.¡±


    Greta had been temporarily stepping in as Brenna¡¯s assistant for the past few days.


    Thepany had recruited thirty-seven financial analysts, fourteen of whom had five years of expertise. Brenna had secured them with an attractive package¡ªa base sry of two million dors annually, plusmissions and year-end bonuses, ensuring a minimum ie of five million dors a year.


    These terms were more than twice as generous as otherpanies¡¯, making the offer nearly impossible to refuse.


    The Mitchell Group¡¯s HR manager had even poached a few top talents from rival firms.


    The newly hired graduates also held master¡¯s degrees.


    Brenna made her way to the 57th floor to greet the new employees. After giving a concise yet motivating speech, she handed task assignments over to Tommy.


    The new assistant, Lorna Turner, was a university graduate with striking beauty and natural charisma. She stood tall, exuding confidence. She was skilled at preparing coffee, tea, and various drinks. Her driving skills were good, and she had impressive knowledge of the local dining scene. She knew which spots served the best dishes or provided unique experiences.


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 Chapter 696

    ?Chapter 696:


    Brenna was impressed by the Mitchell Group¡¯s HR team for finding such an ideal match for the assistant position.


    As the workday wound down, Lorna walked over with a stack of invitations and set them on Brenna¡¯s desk. ¡°Brenna, there¡¯s a robotics expo at the renowned International Convention Center downtown this weekend. Tommy¡¯s been prepping for it for over a month, and it kicks off tomorrow. I¡¯ll swing by your ce at seven to pick you up. Does that suit you?¡±


    ¡°Yeah,¡± Brenna replied, pleased with Lorna¡¯s efficiency on her first day. Working with her felt great.


    Brenna tucked a few invitations into her purse, intending to share them with otherster. ¡°For the remaining invitations, please deliver them to these individuals,¡± she said, sending Lorna a pre-prepared list.


    ¡°Okay, I will do it now,¡± Lorna said, reviewing the list of names, all of whom were clients thepany was working with.


    Orders ced at the expo would include discounts.


    Early Saturday morning, Brenna rose and tapped on Patrick¡¯s door. He was already up, engrossed in videos of robotic dogs.


    ¡°Brenna? Why are you up so early?¡± Patrick asked, surprised. He knew Brenna enjoyed sleeping in, and in his mind, she usually woke upte on weekends. Seeing her at his door now was a surprise.


    ¡°There¡¯s a robotics expo. Want toe?¡± Brenna shed an invitation. ¡°Mypany¡¯s one of the exhibitors.¡±


    Patrick¡¯s eyes immediately sparkled with enthusiasm. ¡°For real? Are there robots?¡±


    ¡°Of course! It¡¯s a robotics expo, after all.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡± Patrick sprang up, grabbed Brenna¡¯s hand, and eagerly pulled her downstairs.


    ¡°Brenna, when are we leaving? Is it a bitte to leave now?¡±


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    As they descended the stairs, they spotted Shepard and Ernst hurrying out of the elevator.


    Brenna immediately sensed trouble. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Shepard paused, his toneced with concern. ¡°Ableson took a bad fall down the stairs earlier. He¡¯s hurt pretty badly. I¡¯m going to check on him.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Brenna¡¯s worry grew. ¡°Dad, you¡¯d better go now. I¡¯ve got a robotics expo for work today, so I can¡¯t apany you.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ve got this. Focus on your event,¡± Shepard said, clearly preupied with Ableson¡¯s condition. Without saying more, he rushed off with Ernst.


    Brenna called after Shepard, ¡°Dad, if there¡¯s anything I can do, just let me know.¡±


    Patrick asked, ¡°Will your uncle be okay?¡±


    Brenna tousled his hair. ¡°He¡¯ll be fine. Let¡¯s grab breakfast first.¡±


    At the robotics expo, top design teams and leadingpanies from across the nation converged. Brenna recognized several prominent names frequently mentioned on the news.


    Herpany had been gaining traction over the past two years and was earning a reputation. Their booth drew a steady flow of curious visitors.


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 Chapter 697

    ?Chapter 697:


    Patrick was engrossed in ying with a few mechanical arms and legs at the booth.


    ¡°Brenna, are these for people with disabilities?¡± The mechanical arm¡¯s ability to execute precise, intricate movements fascinated him.


    ¡°Smart boy,¡± Brenna said, smiling. She hadn¡¯t exined before that these were prosthetic limbs designed to restore mobility and independence for those with disabilities. Compared to conventional prosthetics, these offered enhanced flexibility, breathability, and stability, though they came at a higher cost.


    The research team was focused on lowering expenses to make them essible to ordinary families.


    Several prosthetics manufacturers showed interest in acquiring the designs and paused to discuss specifics with Tommy.


    Brenna was confident in herpany¡¯s creations, certain they would attract strong partnerships.


    ¡°Brenna, I need to use the restroom,¡± Patrick whispered, gently pulling Brenna¡¯s hand.


    ¡°I¡¯ll apany you,¡± Brenna replied.


    By eleven in the morning, the exhibition hall was noticeably busier, buzzing with activity. Brenna, Tommy, and a few engineers were too engrossed to notice a man d entirely in ck, wearing a baseball cap, sunsses, and a mask, loitering near their booth for an extended period.


    The team was preupied with showcasing products to the crowd gathered at the booth.


    Brenna was deeply engaged, exining to a representative from a medical equipment firm, ¡°This robotic arm is highly advanced. It integrates neuralponents and a chip, syncing seamlessly with the brain. It¡¯s aplete substitute for a human arm, ideal for those with disabilities. And it¡¯s reasonably priced; a full-arm prosthetic costs just over two hundred thousand.¡±


    The representative shook his head promptly. ¡°That¡¯s still too expensive for most people. Your design is impressive, and the arm is top-notch, but it¡¯s geared toward affluent clients, not average users.¡±


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    Brenna had expected this. ¡°You¡¯re correct¡ªit¡¯s a stretch for families earning a few thousand a month. But what about high-end clients?¡±


    The man shook his head again. ¡°High-end clients with disabilities are a small demographic, Ms. Harper. Do you have a more budget-friendly option? Something still intelligent like this? If so, we will ce an order today.¡±


    Brenna paused, then turned to Tommy. ¡°Did we bring the simplified model, the single-arm version with one neuron and chip?¡±


    Tommy nodded. ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s stashed under the table. It was too basic, so I didn¡¯t disy it.¡±


    Brenna and Tommy knelt to retrieve a box from beneath the table, unveiling a lessplex robotic arm.


    ¡°Watch out!¡± Tommy suddenly spotted the man in ck, who had been eavesdropping the whole time. The man unscrewed a water bottle and, in a shocking move, flung the liquid directly at Brenna¡¯s face.


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 Chapter 698

    ?Chapter 698:


    Tommy swiftly grabbed the robotic arm from the table, hurling it at the man while yanking Brenna back, shielding her.


    The man was hit by the arm but didn¡¯t retreat. Instead, he threw more of the liquid at Brenna with increasing frenzy.


    Panic erupted¡ªseveral visitors fled, and booth staff grabbed nearby objects, hurling them at the man.


    Tommy leaped onto a chair, got past the table, and quickly subdued the man.


    The nearly empty bottle slipped from the man¡¯s grasp, and where the liquid had spilled, it hissed, releasing white smoke.


    ¡°Sulfuric acid!¡± Tommy instantly identified the substance. Had it struck Brenna, the damage would have been catastrophic.


    The man¡¯s sunsses were shattered, his head bleeding.


    Enraged, Tommy snatched the bottle and poured its remaining contents onto the man¡¯s face.


    A harsh sizzling sound followed as the acid ravaged the man¡¯s skin, disfiguring half his face. Staff from the booth rushed over, shouting, ¡°Mr. McCoy, your clothes¡ªthere¡¯s acid on them!¡±


    Only then did Tommy realize the searing pain in his right shoulder.


    As others called the police and restrained the attacker, Tommy shed his coat, revealing jagged holes eaten through the fabric. His undershirt was simrly damaged, with irregr burn patterns. After removing it, he saw the acid had only scorched the surface of his skin, leaving it red.


    His clothing had absorbed most of the acid¡¯s destructive force; he had been lucky.


    The attacker was still screaming, drawing a crowd of onlookers.


    Tommy exhaled heavily and turned to Brenna. ¡°Brenna, are you okay?¡±


    Brenna examined herself and replied, ¡°I¡¯m unharmed. Let¡¯s get you to the hospital; I¡¯ll leave this to the team.¡±


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    A nearby colleague offered Tommy his coat. ¡°Take this. You two go to the hospital; we¡¯ll handle things here.¡±


    Brenna looked at Patrick, reluctant to leave him behind. ¡°Patrick, why don¡¯t youe with us to the hospital?¡±


    Patrick shook his head. ¡°No, I want to stay and see the expo. Don¡¯t worry, Brenna. I¡¯ll stay with Lorna and behave.¡±


    Lorna quickly asked, ¡°Brenna, should I go with you to the hospital or stay here with Patrick?¡±


    Brenna thought for a moment. ¡°Stay and look after him. I¡¯ll take Tommy to the hospital myself.¡±


    Tommy tried to downy it. ¡°Brenna, I don¡¯t need a hospital visit. It¡¯s just a slight burn; I¡¯ll be fine.¡±


    Brenna was resolute. ¡°No chance. Acid burns are serious. We¡¯re going.¡±


    Unable to dissuade her, Tommy had no choice but toply.


    At the hospital, Brenna was surprised to find the burn unit overwhelmed. Several doctors were hurrying to the emergency room. Apparently, a prominent figure had just been admitted after a sulfuric acid attack to the face.


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 Chapter 699

    ?Chapter 699:


    Brenna and Tommy had no choice but to wait.


    Brenna scanned the burn unit¡¯s two offices, finding them deserted¡ªno doctors in sight. Irritated, she muttered, ¡°Who is this important figure? They got hit with acid, and every doctor had to drop everything to care for them?¡±


    Shirie Hospital was overcrowded, its corridors a chaotic blur of hurried footsteps. Yet no burn specialists were avable, leaving patients waiting in frustration.


    With a huff, Brenna told Tommy to sit and wait while she headed to the nurses¡¯ station to find out what was going on. At the station, only one nurse remained; the other had just left to apany a patient¡¯s rtive to a ward.


    ¡°Excuse me,¡± Brenna said, her tone cool. ¡°Is there really no one covering the burn unit?¡±


    The nurse nced up, momentarily taken aback by Brenna¡¯s beauty. ¡°There were doctors here ten minutes ago, but they rushed to the ER when a patient¡¯s family member got sshed with concentrated sulfuric acid. Are you here for a visit or an emergency?¡±


    ¡°My friend was also sshed with sulfuric acid and has a minor burn. I need to know where he can be treated.¡±


    The nurse, surprised, muttered, ¡°Two acid attacks in one night? That¡¯s strange.¡±


    She leaned forward, scanning the hallway. ¡°Where¡¯s the patient?¡±


    Brenna led the nurse to Tommy, who peeled off his shirt to reveal a raw, reddened burn on his shoulder¡ªworse than before.


    The nurse exhaled in relief. ¡°It looks painful, but it¡¯s not as bad as getting sshed in the face.¡±


    Curious, Brenna asked, ¡°Who got sshed in the face?¡±


    The nurse clicked her tongue, her face heavy with sympathy. ¡°I heard it was Ethan Mitchell, the Mitchell Group¡¯s CEO.¡±


    Brenna froze, feeling like she¡¯d misheard. Ethan? How could it be him?


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    ¡°Who did you say?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Ethan Mitchell. He was visiting a friend when someone ambushed him with sulfuric acid as he left the hospital room,¡± the nurse said gravely.


    ¡°No clue who he crossed for this to happen¡­¡±


    Tommy, equally shocked, urged Brenna, ¡°Go check on him. I¡¯ll be fine.¡± Though she trusted the nurse, Brenna needed confirmation. ¡°Are you sure it was Ethan Mitchell, the CEO of the Mitchell Group, who got sshed with acid?¡±


    The nurse nodded firmly. ¡°Yeah. The whole hospital¡¯s buzzing about it. He¡¯s in the ER now, with burn specialists and ophthalmologists attending to him.¡±


    Brenna bolted toward the ER immediately.


    Her heart was in turmoil. She had no idea how badly Ethan was injured. Would his impossibly handsome face be ruined forever? She didn¡¯t think she cared that deeply for him, so why was her heart racing with dread like this?


    Brenna tried to steady her breathing andpose herself, but her legs moved on autopilot, rushing her forward in a frenzy.


    She had narrowly escaped an acid attack herself earlier. Could the assant who targeted Ethan be connected to the one who targeted her?


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 Chapter 700

    Chapter 700:


    Who could be behind this?


    Had she crossed someone recently?


    Her mind swirled with questions, but no answers emerged.


    Shirie Hospital, a top-tier facility renowned for its advanced technology and skilled staff, had an emergency department perpetually overrun with patients.


    Upon reaching the reception desk, Brenna asked, ¡°Where¡¯s the burn victim who was just admitted?¡±


    The nurse, after guiding a young girl doubled over in pain to a treatment room, replied, ¡°Which one? We¡¯ve had two burn cases brought in just now.¡±


    ¡°Two? That¡¯s strange¡ªtoo many cases like this in one night,¡± Brenna murmured. ¡°I¡¯m looking for Ethan Mitchell.¡±


    The nurse gestured toward an emergency room. ¡°He¡¯s in there, getting his arm treated. It¡¯s a severe injury.¡±


    Brenna was confused. ¡°Wasn¡¯t he sshed with acid in the face?¡±


    ¡°He managed to block his face with his arm, so only his arm was hurt,¡± the nurse exined.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Brenna hurried to the emergency room, only to find the door locked, barring her entry.


    She paced restlessly outside, dialing Ethan¡¯s phone.


    She called several times, but he didn¡¯t answer. Left with no choice, she waited.


    From a nearby emergency room, piercing screams echoed, while two inclothes officers stood guard outside.


    Concerned about Tommy, whom she had left behind, Brenna called him. He reassured her that a surgeon and dermatologist were attending to his burn, easing her worries.


    Two hourster, the emergency room door finally swung open. Ethan emerged, his left arm wrapped in a specialized Vaseline dressing, his impably handsome face untouched.


    g?ln¦Ò¦Í????s, the heart of storytelling


    ¡°Thank God,¡± Brenna said, walking over and gently wrapping her arms around his waist, her voice trembling with relief. ¡°You¡¯re okay. I thought your face was scarred¡­¡±


    Ethan had been visiting Jayceon and was exiting his hospital room when a deranged individual flung acid at him from a water bottle. His suit jacket on his left arm absorbed most of the acid; instinctively, he raised his left arm to shield his face.


    Without that jacket, his face would have been ruined.


    Despite the burning pain, Ethan foundfort in Brenna¡¯s embrace. He carefully wrapped his right arm around her, cherishing the rare closeness.


    ¡°Miss, the patient is still on an IV. Step back; your clothes might carry germs and infect his wound!¡± the nurse holding the IV bottle snapped. Blushing slightly, Brenna eased out of Ethan¡¯s arms and took the IV bottle from the nurse.


    In the VIP ward, she meticulously arranged Ethan¡¯s bed. Ethan, holding the IV with one hand, stood quietly, watching her with a contented smile. Being injured suddenly seemed worthwhile; how else would he get Brenna to tend to him like this? For him, this was a moment of pure joy.


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    Message from Noah: Hope you have a great weekend dear readers. God loves you and Noah whishes you all the best. (?O?=)? ?


    .

 Chapter 701

    ?Chapter 701:


    ¡°All set. You can lie down now,¡± Brenna said, stepping back. Her voice was softer than usual, warm and caring.


    Ethan savored the moment. Heplied, settling onto the bed and hooking the IV bottle onto the stand.


    Brenna sat beside him, inspecting the burn on his arm. It was superficial; proper care would likely prevent scarring. Her medical knowledge gave her confidence in the prognosis.


    ¡°Are you hungry?¡± she asked, ncing at the clock. It was already past two in the afternoon, and her stomach growled. She believed Ethan must be famished.


    ¡°Yeah, grab something to eat for me,¡± Ethan replied. He had meant to send Neville, but Neville was already upied.


    ¡°What do you feel like eating?¡± Brenna asked.


    ¡°Anything nearby is fine. I¡¯m not picky,¡± Ethan said, picking up his phone. It was filled with missed calls and news alerts about his attack.


    Brenna grabbed her handbag and was about to head out when the door burst open. Elsa stormed in, panic etched on her face, with Minna close behind.


    Without acknowledging Brenna, Elsa rushed to Ethan¡¯s bedside, scanning him frantically. ¡°How could this have happened?¡±


    It was the weekend, and Elsa, free from her teaching duties at Shirie University, had been at Belen¡¯s. She had brought Minna with her, wanting Belen to meet her.


    They had been baking cookies when Minna spotted news of Ethan¡¯s attack on her phone. Elsa had tried calling him, but he had been in the ER and unreachable. Terrified he had been gravely injured, Elsa had rushed to the hospital, imagining the worst.


    Seeing it was only an arm injury, Elsa exhaled in relief, though tears welled as she examined his wounds.


    Minna, ignoring Brenna, stood by Elsa, her face etched with concern as she studied Ethan¡¯s injury.


    ¡°Are you okay? Are you still in pain?¡± she asked gently, her voice filled with care.


    Brenna, lingering by the door, realized her presence was no longer needed here; lunch was no longer her responsibility.


    She had no desire to argue with Elsa, especially with Ethan hurt. Causing him stress was thest thing she wanted.


    Approaching Ethan, she said, ¡°I¡¯ll leave now. Let your mother and Miss Davies handle lunch for you.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s face darkened when he saw Minna, clearly irritated that Elsa had brought her here. Grasping Brenna¡¯s hand, he said, ¡°No, Brenna. I¡¯m in pain; I need you to stay and look after me.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s temper red. ¡°What¡¯s so special about her? I don¡¯t understand! She shows me no respect. How can you marry someone like that? Tell her to leave!¡±


    ¡°Ah!¡± Ethan groaned dramatically, clutching his arm. ¡°Mom, I¡¯m in bad shape. Can¡¯t you let me have my way for once?¡±


    Elsa was conflicted. She loathed seeing Ethan suffer but resented Brenna¡¯s presence, feeling constantly challenged and humiliated by her.


    Yet, with Ethan injured, she knew arguing with him wasn¡¯t wise.


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 Chapter 702

    ?Chapter 702:


    With exaggerated drama, Ethan stared at his bandaged arm. ¡°Mom, I don¡¯t want Minna here. Please ask her to go. Don¡¯t make things difficult for me now.¡±


    Elsa was deeply unwilling to do that. Yielding now would ruin her hopes of pushing Minna closer to Ethan.


    She red at Brenna¡¯sposed demeanor, infuriated by herck of deference.


    Most women would grovel to win over their future mothers-inw, but Brenna acted as if she should be the one to bend first.


    No chance!


    ¡°Minna, grab something for Ethan to eat. He prefers mild vors, nothing spicy or heavy. He¡¯s not exactly picky,¡± Elsa instructed.


    Minna, feeling awkward and resentful, believed Brenna should have left the moment Elsa arrived. How dare she linger when she knew she wasn¡¯t wee here?


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll go,¡± she said, then turned to Ethan with a syrupy tone. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, what would you like to eat?¡±


    Ethan¡¯s expression remained frosty. He didn¡¯t answer, frustrated by his mother¡¯s decision but powerless to change it.


    Turning to Brenna, he said, ¡°Brenna, could you get food for me? I only want what you buy.¡±


    Brenna sensed Ethan was making a point to his mother, firmly rejecting her attempts to control his choices.


    ¡°Okay,¡± she said.


    Minna, lingering hopefully, waited for Ethan¡¯s response, wishing he would show her even a fraction of the warmth he gave Brenna. ¡°Should I grab something for you too, Mr. Mitchell? What do you like?¡± she asked.


    ¡°No need; leave me alone!¡± Ethan shot back sharply.


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    Minna¡¯s face flushed with embarrassment, tears welling up and threatening to spill.


    Elsa, witnessing her son¡¯s starkly different treatment of the two women, felt her earlier empathy evaporate. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you? How can you talk to Minna like that? She came all this way out of concern for you, and this is how you repay her? Apologize to her right now!¡±


    If Ethan weren¡¯t injured, she might have hit him already.


    Minna, holding back tears with great effort, refused to leave, her resolve hardening.


    Brenna observed the scene silently and smirked faintly. Elsa wasn¡¯t just overbearing; she was stubborn and unreasonable.


    As Brenna turned to leave, Minna followed, tears streaming down her face. She quickly blocked Brenna¡¯s path, defiant. ¡°Don¡¯t think that just because Ethan is nice to you, you can marry him. As long as Elsa¡¯s around, you won¡¯t be able to.¡±


    Brenna eyed Minna¡¯s aggrieved expression. Minna really looked like the victim here. Brenna responded coolly, ¡°Do you care about Ethan himself, or are you just chasing his wealth? I don¡¯t believe you fell in love with him at first sight.¡±


    Minna lifted her chin, unyielding. ¡°I do love him. Why can¡¯t it be love at first sight? I¡¯m not giving up; I¡¯ll win him over eventually.¡±


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 Chapter 703

    ?Chapter 703:


    ¡°Whatever,¡± Brenna said dismissively, brushing past her.


    Uncertain of Ethan¡¯s food preferences despite Elsa¡¯s vague suggestions of mild, non-spicy dishes, Minna discreetly tailed Brenna.


    The area around Shirie Hospital was lined with eateries for every budget, catering to the needs of patients and visitors.


    Brenna entered a high-end restaurant, nearly empty at that hour. At the counter, she reviewed the menu. ¡°I¡¯ll take boiled shrimp, a sd, and pork ribs to go.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s five hundred and seventy-eight dors,¡± said the owner, a man in his thirties with a friendly smile. ¡°Is the food for a patient? Any dietary restrictions?¡±


    Brenna considered briefly. ¡°No chili in the ribs.¡±


    She paid swiftly and took a seat to wait, texting to check on Tommy¡¯s condition.


    Spotting Brenna absorbed in her phone, Minna approached the counter. ¡°I want exactly what she just ordered,¡± she said, reasoning that even if Ethan rejected her food, she could share it with Elsa. Her n was to linger near Ethan and Brenna, determined to disturb their moment.


    The owner nced at Minna, puzzled by her request. He then turned to look at Brenna, who was engrossed in her phone, typing quickly with a subtle smile, not paying attention to the counter. Assuming the two women weren¡¯t acquainted, he spoke in a normal tone, not lowering his voice. ¡°Alright, she ordered boiled shrimp, a sd, and pork ribs, totaling five hundred and seventy-eight dors.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s quite expensive,¡± Minna mumbled.


    Regret washed over her. Unlike Brenna, she hadn¡¯te from a wealthy family.


    During her days in the performance troupe, she had earned a modest two to three thousand dors monthly, and her discharge bonus had gone to her parents to help buy her brother a house for his marriage.


    Her savings were meager. Now, newly employed at the Mitchell Group with limited education and experience, her six-thousand-dor monthly sry made the meal¡¯s cost a bitter expense. She wished she had chosen a more affordable eatery.


    The owner noticed Minna¡¯s hesitation, observing her decent but less refined attirepared to Brenna¡¯s.


    Your favorite stories are on g?ln¦Ò¦Íe??s?c?m


    ¡°Miss, do you still want to order that?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Minna replied, swiping her card with a pang of reluctance.


    While awaiting her order, Minna deliberately sat across from Brenna.


    Soon, Brenna¡¯s food was ready. She then purchased several bottles of water, each priced over ten dors.


    Minna, catching the price, was stunned. She typically bought water for a fraction of that.


    ¡°I consulted my assistant, who mentioned that the cuisine at this eatery is delightful and affordably priced. You should give it a try.¡±


    As Brenna stepped into the hospital ward and spoke to Ethan, she noticed Elsa was not in the room.


    She neatly arranged the tes on the small table, nced toward the door, and asked, ¡°Where¡¯s your mother?¡±


    Ethan gave a resigned shrug. ¡°She¡¯s anxious about my health and stepped out to speak with the doctor. If the treatment here can¡¯t fully heal me or if it will leave scars, she¡¯s prepared to arrange treatment overseas.¡±


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 Chapter 704

    ?Chapter 704:


    Brenna¡¯s eyes drifted to Ethan¡¯s wounded left arm, then to his right arm still connected to an IV. She asked, ¡°Would you like me to feed you?¡±


    The moment she asked, she wished she could take the question back.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Ethan replied. A wave of joy washed over him. He had only felt this extraordinary happiness twice today.


    Brenna looked at the meal and said, ¡°I¡¯m not very good at looking after people. I¡¯ve only ever fed Patrick before. Maybe you should eat on your own.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s lips formed a yful pout. ¡°I¡¯m hurt. Do you really want me to eat alone like this?¡±


    With a gentle sigh, Brenna relented. ¡°Fine.¡±


    When Minna opened the door, Brenna was feeding Ethan.


    Unaware of Minna¡¯s presence, Brenna set the fork aside and reached for a napkin to dab at Ethan¡¯s mouth.


    Ethan noticed Minna¡¯s expression¡ªshe looked on the verge of tears. He leaned closer to Brenna deliberately.


    Minna stood frozen at the door, feeling like an intruder, torn between staying and leaving.


    She really couldn¡¯t handle the situation, especially since Elsa wasn¡¯t there.


    Just then, Elsa returned.


    ¡°Why aren¡¯t you inside?¡± Elsa asked, her spirits high. The doctor had assured her that Shirie Hospital¡¯s burn unit was among the best in the world, using state-of-the-art techniques and thetest medications to ensure Ethan¡¯s recovery without scarring.


    Minna tilted her head, and Elsa¡¯s gaze followed. Her face immediately clouded over. She strode in, clearing her throat loudly.


    Brenna turned at the sound, gave Elsa and Minna a brief, neutral nce, and handed Ethan the fork.


    New updates live on g¦Ál¦Ç¦Ò¦Íe?s


    Ethan gently took it from her. ¡°I¡¯ll eat by myself.¡±


    He knew pushing the situation further might provoke Elsa too much.


    But as soon as he held the fork, Ethan offered Brenna a piece of meat. ¡°It¡¯s tasty. Have some.¡±


    Elsa felt a swirl ofplicated emotions and wasn¡¯t sure what to say. She harbored a grudge against Brenna, whoseck of tact had once humiliated her. Brenna had asked her to perform a song at Amy¡¯s birthday party, turning her into a subject of ridicule among her colleagues.


    Elsa was a renowned singer in Vand, though few knew she was Ethan¡¯s mother. A singer performing at a private event wasn¡¯t a big deal, and the gossip about it had soon faded.


    Yet being directed by Brenna was an insult she couldn¡¯t forgive. Since then, she had nursed a deep animosity toward Brenna and staunchly opposed her being with Ethan.


    Now, however, she had just seen Brenna tenderly caring for Ethan, feeding him with genuine care.


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 Chapter 705

    ?Chapter 705:


    More importantly, Ethan¡¯s affection for Brenna was clear, and Elsa hadn¡¯t seen him this happy in years.


    Torn, Elsa didn¡¯t know whether she should stop Brenna and kick her out.


    The hospital room was spacious and furnished with modernforts¡ªa bed table, sofa, coffee table, and a private lounge area for family.


    Minna stood looking at Ethan, clutching the meal she had brought, anticipating Elsa¡¯s outburst to drive Brenna away.


    But Elsa didn¡¯t do that.


    ¡°Minna,e here. I haven¡¯t eaten lunch. Let¡¯s share what you¡¯ve got.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s heart had softened, unwilling to shatter her son¡¯s rare moment of joy.


    Minna, stunned, felt a pang of disappointment. She looked at Elsa, surprised. ¡°Elsa¡­¡±


    Elsa caught her meaning but brushed it aside. ¡°Come on, I¡¯m starving.¡± Reluctantly, Minna walked over, swallowing her frustrations, and set the takeout containers on the coffee table, her eyes brimming with unshed tears.


    Elsa noticed but looked away, feigning ignorance. She then opened the containers.


    ¡°The same dishes?¡± Elsa muttered, silently noting Minna¡¯sck of foresight. Why would she buy the same dishes as Brenna? This way, Ethan would inevitably prefer the food Brenna had brought over her own.


    Had the dishes been different, Elsa might have persuaded Ethan to try them.


    With a quiet exhale, Elsa resolved to mentor Minna on how to foster a stronger connection with Ethanter.


    The restaurant¡¯s food was undeniably delicious, and even Elsa savored a generous portion.


    Meanwhile, Brenna and Ethan continued sharing their meal, lost in their own world, heedless of those around them.


    ¡°Enjoying it?¡± Brenna asked, her smile bright. ¡°My new assistant has a real talent for spotting great ces. She rmended this restaurant to me. I¡¯m thinking of increasing her pay.¡±


    Ethan, in a casual tone, inquired, ¡°How much is her sry now?¡±


    ¡°Six thousand a month, no bonuses,¡± Brenna replied.


    Ethan let out a softugh. ¡°That¡¯s modest. I pay Neville thirty grand a month, plus bonuses. That¡¯s close to a million annually.¡±


    ¡°I run a small studio. It¡¯s nothingpared to your bigpany. Of course, my employees¡¯ sries are lower,¡± Brenna said, though she agreed with him. A capable assistant deserved better pay than that.


    Elsa and Minna sat across the table, watching Ethan, a grown man, ask Brenna to feed him. It was unbearable. Their expressions shifted, emotions tangled.


    To be frank, Elsa couldn¡¯t believe what she was seeing. She remembered as clearly as if it were yesterday when Ethan had mastered using a knife and fork at the age of two. From that day on, he had never let her feed him again. Watching Brenna spoon-feed him through the entire meal felt like Brenna had taken something that used to be hers.


    Minna, meanwhile, was reeling for a different reason. She was convinced her chances of ever being with Ethan had just dropped to zero. Unable to stay any longer, she dropped her fork with a sharp clink. ¡°Elsa, I have something to do. I¡¯ll leave now.¡±


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 Chapter 706

    ?Chapter 706:


    This was humiliation in its purest form. She had no intention of evering back.


    Elsa red at Ethan with usation. Guilt bubbled inside her¡ªafter all, she was the one who had brought Minna here.


    Without a word, she quickly stood and followed Minna out.


    In the hallway, Minna broke down in tears.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think Mr. Mitchell will ever like me. Maybe I should just give up,¡± she said to Elsa.


    Elsa nced back through the small gap in the hospital room door. Ethan, wounded and all, was still enjoying the meal with Brenna as if they were the only two people in the world.


    She was angry watching the scene and could only imagine how furious Minna must be.


    ¡°Ethan¡¯s the one in the wrong. Don¡¯t let this break you. I won¡¯t let Brenna be part of my family. Minna, don¡¯t give up just yet¡­¡± Elsa said gently.


    Minna wiped her tears with the back of her hand. ¡°It¡¯s not that I want to give up¡­ I just don¡¯t see any hope left.¡±


    Elsa knew how to persuade her. ¡°Listen to me. I¡¯ll make sure my son chooses you in the end. Be honest with yourself. Have you ever met another man like Ethan? If you give up, do you really think you¡¯ll find someone half as good?¡±


    Minna bit her lip. Deep down, she knew Elsa was right. Men like Ethan didn¡¯te around twice. She was reluctant to give up.


    ¡°But Miss Harper is amazing. Her background¡¯s better than mine. I can¡¯tpare to her,¡± she said.


    Elsa scoffed. ¡°So what? I don¡¯t care about that. I don¡¯t approve of her, and I never will. She won¡¯t be able to marry Ethan¡ªnot while I¡¯m still here. You¡¯re the only daughter-inw I ept. Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll help you.¡±


    Minna nodded. ¡°Still, I won¡¯t go back in there today. I have to go now.¡±


    g?ln¦Ò¦Í????s is where dreams unfold


    Just as she turned to leave, two uniformed officers approached. One of them gave a curt nod and spoke with practiced politeness. ¡°Excuse me, ma¡¯am. Please step aside.¡±


    Elsa turned to the officers with a polite smile. ¡°Officers, is something wrong?¡±


    ¡°There was a sulfuric acid assault reported here at the hospital. We¡¯re here to speak with those involved.¡±


    Without hesitation, Elsa stepped aside and motioned toward the room. Meanwhile, Minna changed her mind about leaving. If anything, she wanted to see how long Ethan and Brenna could keep up their sweet little act with the police around.


    As expected, the moment the officers walked in, the two moved apart. Brenna had just finished her meal. She stood and began tidying the table.


    Just then, her phone rang. She nced at the screen. It was Isabe calling. There was also unfinished business waiting at the exhibition. So, she said to Ethan, ¡°I¡¯ll leave now. Take care of yourself.¡±


    Ethan looked at her, reluctant to let her go. Still, he said, ¡°Go handle your work. Don¡¯t worry about me.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯lle see you again tonight. My uncle had a fall. He¡¯s here in the same hospital. I¡¯ll visit him, then stop by your room,¡± said Brenna. She didn¡¯t even realize her smile was affectionate.


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 Chapter 707

    ?Chapter 707:


    The officers nearby exchanged a nce. They didn¡¯t rush the pair. One of them even cracked a faint smile.


    Minna rolled her eyes and bit back a string of curses in her mind. Just as Brenna finished speaking, the call from Isabe disconnected on its own. A secondter, her phone rang again.


    She stepped out into the hallway and picked up the call. ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±


    Isabe¡¯s voice came through, cool and measured. ¡°Have you thought about the deal? Thirteen million is generous enough.¡±


    Brenna had seen thising. ¡°I want half of whatever¡¯s in Jade¡¯s ount. Not a penny less. You want to y dirty and still keep all the money to yourselves? That¡¯s not how this works.¡±


    Meanwhile, Denis sat tensely beside Isabe. He had scoured both local and international circles, reaching out to every high-level hacker he could find. They had all tried and failed to crack the firewall Jade had left behind.


    Two different hackers had rmended the same person: Night. Denis had scoured the web, but Night¡¯s identity remained a mystery.


    Then it hit him. Brenna¡¯spany was named Night Studio. The pieces clicked into ce. Brenna had to be Night. So, he had pushed Isabe to call Brenna.


    Isabe had the phone on speaker. Denis sat beside her, a deep scowl on his face. The longer he listened, the darker his mood grew.


    Fuming, he leaned forward and barked into the phone, ¡°One hundred million! That¡¯s the highest I¡¯ll go. Brenna, that¡¯s more than generous. Are you in or not?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± With that, Brenna ended the call without hesitation.


    She then headed straight for the exhibition. By the time she arrived, Tommy had already gone home to rest. At their booth, the team was working smoothly, and even Patrick had started exining the robotic arm to customers.


    Brenna walked over and gave Patrick a pat on the head. ¡°Good boy. You¡¯re already making money for me.¡±


    Finish the chapters at g???????¦Í????s. ??o??


    Patrick grinned from ear to ear. ¡°Brenna, I just got you two new orders! I¡¯m amazing, aren¡¯t I?¡±


    One of the staff members nearby chuckled. ¡°He¡¯s telling the truth. Two orders¡ªa thousand high-end robotic arms. The client said our tech is way ahead of everyone else¡¯s.¡±


    Shortly after Brenna arrived, the exhibition wrapped up. Since lunch had been just takeout, she treated her team to dinner at a nearby restaurant. After dinner, she brought Patrick along to visit Ableson at the hospital. Ableson had suffered a severe fall. Audrey and Lenora were at his bedside, their faces etched with worry.


    Brenna knocked lightly and entered the hospital room, her eyes falling on Ableson, whoy beneath a thin nket. His prosthetic legs leaned against the wall. His right arm was encased in a cast, his head swathed in bandages, and his face marked with bruises. His injuries were clearly serious.


    ¡°How did this happen? Uncle Ableson has been using prosthetics for years and is always so cautious,¡± Brenna said, baffled. Ableson had resided in the Harper family residence for years and had always navigated his prosthetics without a single misstep.


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 Chapter 708

    ?Chapter 708:


    Lenora¡¯s voice trembled with anger. ¡°Exactly. He has never had an ident before. But this morning, as he started down the stairs, the housekeeper somehow slipped and crashed into him. They both fell, but she walked away unscathed. He broke his arm, cracked two ribs, hit his head, and suffered a concussion. He¡¯s been on an IV all day just to keep the nausea at bay.¡±


    ¡°Was it intentional?¡± Brenna picked up on Lenora¡¯s insinuation, her own suspicions growing.


    Lenora nodded grimly. ¡°We believe so. The police have already taken her in for questioning.¡±


    Audrey quietly sliced an apple, arranging the pieces on a tray for Ableson. But Ableson didn¡¯t touch them. Instead, he looked at Brenna and said, ¡°I heard yourpany develops advanced prosthetics. Could you design a new pair for me? I¡¯m not as young as I used to be, and my current ones aren¡¯t holding up. My skin¡¯s weakened, and I don¡¯t have the strength or precision I once did. If I had better ones, I might not have fallen so hard.¡±


    ¡°Of course. I¡¯ll take care of it,¡± Brenna replied. For her, this was a simple request, and she agreed without hesitation.


    When Brenna got home, Shepard and Ernst had just returned from the police station.


    ¡°How did it go?¡± Giselle asked, her voice tight with concern.


    ¡°The housekeeper was working for someone. She did that on purpose. The police found a 1.5-million-dor transfer in her ount from yesterday, traced to an overseas source,¡± Shepard said.


    ¡°An overseas ount?¡± Brenna murmured. ¡°Could it be Rosie? She and Maxley have been struggling a lottely because of us. Maybe they¡¯re out for revenge.¡±


    Shepard replied, ¡°We don¡¯t know yet. It¡¯s a foreign ount, and the police are still waiting for authorization to dig deeper.¡±


    Ernst¡¯s face twisted with rage. ¡°It¡¯s got to be her. Who else would target Uncle Ableson so viciously?¡±


    g???????¦Í??????.????n ¨C ?????????? ???????????????? ????


    Brenna¡¯s expression darkened. Rosie preyed on the vulnerable. Unable to strike at her directly, she had gone after Ableson.


    ¡°Dad, Ernst, have either of you experienced anything strange recently?¡± she asked.


    Shepard nodded. ¡°I nearly had an ident myself. My bodyguard discovered the brakes on my car had been tampered with. If he hadn¡¯t checked¡­¡±


    Brenna turned to Ernst. ¡°What about you?¡±


    Ernst¡¯s jaw clenched. ¡°This morning, on our way to the hospital, a dump truck barreled toward Dad and me at an intersection. Our driver swerved just in time, or we would have been in a crash.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m going to confront Rosie,¡± Brenna dered, convinced this was Rosie and Maxley retaliating for what she and Ethan had done to them.


    Ernst¡¯s expression grew stormy. He knew about the humiliating incident with Rosie and Maxley and despised how Rosie was now targeting his family. ¡°I¡¯m going with you,¡± he dered.


    Shepard didn¡¯t protest, but Giselle¡¯s face creased with concern. ¡°It¡¯ste. Can¡¯t this wait until tomorrow?¡± she asked.


    ¡°No. It has to be now,¡± Brenna said firmly.


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 Chapter 709

    ?Chapter 709:


    ¡°Darrell, assemble some guards and go with them,¡± Shepardmanded.


    Ernst and Dalton had been abducted as children before, and Brenna had also been lost as a child, so Shepard and Ableson prioritized their safety. The household guards were all skilled in self-defense.


    ¡°Do you know where Rosie lives?¡± Brenna asked Ernst as they slid into the car.


    ¡°Yeah. After Dad almost had that ident yesterday, I had someone find out,¡± Ernst said. He had already made up his mind¡ªif Rosie was responsible, she would face the consequences.


    Brenna nodded, then said, ¡°Someone tried to pour sulfuric acid on me today. Tommy saved me. Ethan was also attacked with it. He injured his arm; he¡¯s in the hospital now.¡± The thought ignited her fury.


    Just then, her phone rang. It was Ethan calling. She quickly answered.


    ¡°Are you home? You promised to call me when you got back safely,¡± Ethan said.


    After the day¡¯s chaos, Ethan was worried about Brenna.


    Brenna briefed him on the recent troubles with the Harper family. Then she said, ¡°I¡¯m on my way to confront Rosie.¡±


    Ethan, who had just settled into the hospital bed, flung off the nket. ¡°I¡¯m going with you.¡±


    Ethan had finished his IV treatment and originally nned to head home that night. But both the doctor and nurse urged him to stay, and Elsa insisted as well.


    In the end, he agreed to remain in the hospital, though he had no interest in Elsa¡¯spany. Her nonstop chatter wore him down more than the injury itself. Instead, he called Neville to take care of him.


    Neville helped him into his suit jacket, and together they left the hospital, heading to Rosie¡¯s ce.


    Brenna had already been waiting at the entrance for a while when Ethan arrived.


    Read the rest on g??l nov els.????


    As soon as Ethan stepped out of the car, Ernst caught sight of his wounded arm and frowned with concern. ¡°How is your injury? Is it bad? Rosie is crossing the line, attacking many of us. Is she trying to kill us all?¡±


    Ethan responded calmly, ¡°It¡¯s not serious. I¡¯ll be discharged in three days.¡±


    They headed to Rosie¡¯s apartment together.


    Rosie was lying on the bed, mindlessly scrolling through her phone. Her screen was filled with one humiliating photo after another of her and Maxley¡ªimages she had tried, and failed, to erase from the inte.


    She felt frustrated. The thought of stepping outside made her stomach twist. For two days, she hadn¡¯t left the apartment. Even grocery runs were handed off to Rachael. The idea of strangers staring at her, whispering, and mocking her was unbearable.


    Just then, the doorbell rang. Rachael went to answer it. Maxley nced toward the door. ¡°Where¡¯s security? Didn¡¯t they say they¡¯d handle the delivery and bring it in themselves?¡± His tone was clearly displeased.


    Then, Rachael¡¯s voice rang out in rm. ¡°What do you think you¡¯re doing? Leave here right now!¡± Her scream followed immediately.


    ¡°Who¡¯s there?¡± Rosie called out, too afraid to move closer. If security had failed, whoever got in had to be skilled. Without thinking, she ducked behind Maxley for protection.


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 Chapter 710

    ?Chapter 710:


    Maxley, still in his pajamas, stared toward the door with an annoyed scowl. Even as the Prince of Plieca, safe under Vand¡¯s protection, he didn¡¯t dare approach the door. ¡°Who is it?¡±


    A momentter, Ethan entered the room with Ernst and Brenna by his side. Several towering security guards followed closely behind.


    Rosie¡¯s fear vanished. She stepped forward, her voice sharp with usation. ¡°How did you manage to get in here? Was it you who made Maxley and me humiliate ourselves on the street yesterday?¡± She red at them with barely contained fury, her hands curling into fists at her sides.


    Maxley was just as furious. He approached, his tone rising with indignation. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, we¡¯ve always maintained a good working rtionship. How could you do this to me? I demand a formal apology andpensation for the damage you¡¯ve caused.¡±


    ¡°Spare me the act!¡± Ernst snapped.


    Ethan calmly showed Rosie and Maxley the wound on his arm. ¡°I didn¡¯t do this. But I ended up like this. Maxley, this was your doing, wasn¡¯t it?¡±


    Maxley replied, ¡°Absolutely not. Since that morning, Rosie and I have stayed at home. We¡¯ve even turned off our phones. We¡¯ve been dealing with nonstop harassment since the incident.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s eyes locked onto Ethan¡¯s arm. The injury looked serious. She hadn¡¯t touched her phone all day and hadn¡¯t heard anything about Ethan getting hurt. ¡°It wasn¡¯t me, Ethan. I¡¯d never hurt you. And Ernst¡­ I would never harm you either. You helped me when no one else did. I haven¡¯t forgotten that.¡±


    Brenna nced at Ethan, then at Ernst. All three could tell Rosie¡¯s reaction wasn¡¯t staged. If she were behind the attack, she¡¯d be panicking. And Maxley had openly challenged them, clearly not trying to hide anything.


    ¡°It wasn¡¯t you?¡± Ethan asked, his voice low and steady as his eyes swept across the room.


    On the sofa, he spotted two phones. They belonged to Rosie and Maxley.


    Your storytelling begins at g ¦Á? ¦Ç¦Ò ¦Í?? ??s,


    Without hesitation, Brenna walked over and picked them up. Both were powered off, as was a nearby tablet.


    She turned on the devices and held them out, asking Rosie and Maxley to unlock them using their fingerprints.


    The twoplied without protest, suggesting they had nothing to hide. Brenna wondered if they weren¡¯t behind it, then who was?


    Once the phones were unlocked, Brenna and Ethan got to work. With their skills, it didn¡¯t take long tob through the data. There were no money transfers in thest three days.


    They dug through every personal ount linked to Rosie and Maxley, but found nothing amiss.


    ¡°Do you have any other phones?¡± Ethan asked sharply. Most people carried more than one phone.


    To clear her name, Rosie handed over two additional phones, along with all of Maxley¡¯s devices. Like the others, they were all powered off.


    Even after checking everything, Brenna remained unconvinced of their innocence. ¡°What exactly have you two been doing these past few days?¡±


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 Chapter 711

    ?Chapter 711:


    Rosie and Maxley looked deeply offended. Maxley, struggling to maintain hisposure, snapped back in the localnguage, ¡°That¡¯s none of your business! All I want to know is whether you two had anything to do with what happened at that intersection. That night, we were drunk,pletely out of it, and thest person we saw was you, Mr. Mitchell.¡±


    Maxley¡¯s fury boiled over. ¡°I know you¡¯re behind this,¡± he spat. Ethan remained calm. He had indeed orchestrated the situation, but only because Maxley had plotted against him and Brenna first. Maxley and Rosie had simply fallen into his carefullyid trap, outmaneuvered. Did Maxley think finding the culprit would clear his name? How absurd. Had he not considered the consequences when hemitted those misdeeds?


    From outside came stifled groans and faint sobs, as if someone¡¯s cries had been silenced before they could fully escape.


    Maxley didn¡¯t know what had happened, but with Ethan¡¯s group lingering inside and none of his security team rushing to his aid, he sensed something was wrong. Reaching the door, he froze at the sight before him.


    One of Ethan¡¯s men was driving a de into the thigh of Maxley¡¯s chief guard. Blood pooled in the corridor, the air thick with its metallic tang.


    The remaining ten guardsy scattered across the floor, some clutching their torsos, others gripping their heads, all battered into immobility, incapable ofing to Maxley¡¯s rescue.


    ¡°Stop it! What the hell is going on?¡± Maxley snapped at Neville.


    Neville barely spared him a nce before pulling the knife out and plunging it again into the guard¡¯s thigh. ¡°Talk!¡± he demanded.


    The guard writhed in agony, his face ashen, his body shaking. To him, Neville was nothing short of a devil.


    His pleading eyes begged for mercy as he said, ¡°Prince Maxley and his wife haven¡¯t left the house in days. I swear, I¡¯m telling the truth.¡±


    Maxley lunged to pull Neville away, but Ethan¡¯s other guards swiftly blocked him. These men in dark suits were ruthless; they didn¡¯t care about Maxley¡¯s status.


    ????t??st ch??pt??rs in g??lno¦Íels.??????


    Fuming, Maxley stormed back into the room and confronted Ethan with indignation. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, I¡¯m the Prince of Plieca and a respected guest of Vand. How dare you interrogate my staff like that? You¡¯re sparking an international conflict. I¡¯ll have Vand¡¯s foreign ministry step in.¡±


    ¡°Oh really?¡± Ethan replied coolly. ¡°Maxley, you¡¯ve assaulted over a dozen women in Vand, some underage. Do you want to exin that to the foreign ministry?¡±


    Ethan gave him a cold nce before turning to leave.


    Rosie stepped into Ethan¡¯s path. She knew his temperament well¡ªif he believed someone was guilty, he would make sure they paid the price. Like when she had woken up naked at a crossroads the previous morning¡ªthat was Ethan¡¯s retribution.


    ¡°Ethan, it really wasn¡¯t us. I wouldn¡¯t dare harm you; I¡¯m telling you the truth,¡± she pleaded.


    Ethan¡¯s sharp gaze pinned her. ¡°You wouldn¡¯t dare harm me? Who tried to kill me at that hotel in Plieca, or on that ship? Rosie, don¡¯t forget what you¡¯ve done. You reap what you sow.¡±


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 Chapter 712

    ?Chapter 712:


    Rosie recoiled under his stare, her words dying in her throat. She watched helplessly as Ethan left, Brenna at his side. She wanted to ask about his injuries but couldn¡¯t summon the courage.


    Inside the car, Brenna turned to Ethan. ¡°It probably wasn¡¯t them. The police haven¡¯t shared any findings yet.¡±


    From the driver¡¯s seat, Neville spoke up. ¡°I¡¯ll have answers by tonight. The ount that wired money to Jane¡¯s was opened at an international bank in Plieca. Our contacts there are already investigating. We¡¯ll know something by seven tomorrow morning.¡±


    Ethan considered this, then said, ¡°Could it be Edward¡¯s people?¡±


    Brenna shook her head. ¡°Doubtful. I was in Norview recently¡ªEdward¡¯s operations and assets have been gutted and absorbed. Whatever¡¯s left shouldn¡¯t have the resources for this. The person who attacked me with acid is still in the hospital, and the police are investigating. I¡¯m sure we¡¯ll have answers soon.¡±


    Instead of returning to the hospital, Ethan headed to his house near Brenna¡¯s ce.


    When Brenna got home, Patrick was already asleep.


    She showered, mentally piecing together the day¡¯s chaotic events. The more she reflected, the more tangled everything seemed.


    The next day, Brenna rose early and went to Patrick¡¯s room. ¡°Patrick, we almost had an ident yesterday. Stay home today. Do not go out to y, okay?¡±


    Still groggy, Patrick nodded. ¡°Okay.¡±


    Young as he was, he knew he couldn¡¯t protect himself. Another kidnapping might not end as fortunately as hisst, when he had escaped unharmed.


    Brenna headed downstairs for breakfast and spoke to Julia. ¡°Keep a close watch on Patrick today. Don¡¯t let him leave the house.¡±


    Julia nodded. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll make sure he¡¯s safe.¡±


    Stories live now on g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s.c¦Ïm


    Just as breakfast was served, Ethan arrived.


    With a yful smirk, he plopped down beside Brenna. ¡°I¡¯m here to eat breakfast. I¡¯m toozy to cook.¡±


    His sly look at Brenna carried a clear implication, which she caught instantly.


    ¡°I¡¯m not feeding you,¡± she said quickly.


    Ethan genuinely enjoyed the warmth of the Harper household and admired how Giselle and Shepard raised their children. Despite their wealth and social standing, the couple was grounded and easy to talk to. They never pushed their children into rigid paths or forced them into roles they didn¡¯t want.


    Take Ernst, for example. He had a knack for business, so the Harpers handed him the reins of thepany. Dalton, on the other hand, was drawn to acting, so they encouraged him to pursue a career in the entertainment industry.


    This was nothing like Ethan¡¯s upbringing. His parents had made their decision early. He and his brother were destined for the military in their eyes, whether they liked it or not. Because of this, Ethan dreaded going back home. It wasn¡¯t that he looked down on the military¡ªhe respected it¡ªbut he simply didn¡¯t want that life for himself.


    Across the table, Brenna caught sight of his bandaged arm. Without a word, she stood and fetched a set of utensils. She ced them in front of him and even passed the fork into his hand. Ethan beamed. ¡°Thanks.¡±


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 Chapter 713

    ?Chapter 713:


    Ernst snorted. ¡°When Jayceon and I took care of you, we never got a thank you. When did you start being so polite?¡±


    ¡°None of your business,¡± Ethan retorted. Just as he picked up his fork, his phone rang.


    He set the fork down and nced at the screen. His mood soured the moment he saw the caller ID.


    It was his mother calling.


    ¡°Mom,¡± he said tly after picking up.


    On the other end, Elsa didn¡¯t need to see his face to know he was annoyed. ¡°Why aren¡¯t you in your ward? Where did you run off to so early in the morning? You¡¯re injured, Ethan. What if your injury gets infected?¡±


    Ethan had expected this. He knew Elsa would visit him early, probably dragging Minna along and carrying breakfast. Without missing a beat, Ethan lied. ¡°It¡¯s stuffy in the ward. I¡¯m just getting some air downstairs.¡±


    Elsa stood near the window and peered out. The hospital grounds were already alive with movement despite the early hour. It was just past seven, and people were everywhere. But there was no sign of Ethan. Her eyes narrowed as she said, ¡°Are you lying to me? Did you sneak back home?¡±


    Elsa never trusted her son. He had always been good at deceiving her. ¡°Why is it so quiet where you are? Did you really return home? Did you forget what the doctor said? You¡¯ve always been like this. You never let me rest easy. Come back now. I brought your favorite food. It¡¯ll get cold if you don¡¯t hurry.¡±


    Ethan ended the call and set his phone down. He nced at the Harper family and caught the faint shifts in their expressions. No one said anything, but it was clear they understood hisplicated rtionship with his mother.


    Giselle and Shepard had just sat down and overheard Ethan¡¯s phone call. They had heard everything but pretended not to.


    With practiced ease, Giselle smiled and said, ¡°Ethan¡¯s hand is injured. Brenna, take good care of him.¡±


    Stay updated with g?ln¦Òv???s


    After breakfast, Brenna offered to drive Ethan back to the hospital.


    Ethan settled into the passenger seat. Looking over at her, he gave a small, yful grin. ¡°From now on, no one else is allowed to sit here. Only I can sit in your passenger seat.¡±


    Brenna shot him a look, raising an eyebrow as if to gauge how serious he was. ¡°What about my parents? Or my brother? Can they sit here?¡±


    Ethan huffed, clearly wanting to roll his eyes but holding back. Couldn¡¯t she just let him have this moment?


    ¡°No,¡± he muttered, sounding slightly annoyed.


    Brenna chuckled softly and started the engine.


    During the ride, Ethan¡¯s phone rang twice. Both times, Elsa¡¯s name shed on the screen. Both times, he ignored it without hesitation.


    When they pulled up to the hospital entrance, Brenna turned to Ethan and said, ¡°I have to head back to the exhibition today, so I won¡¯t be going in with you. I¡¯ll see you tonight.¡±


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 Chapter 714

    ?Chapter 714:


    Ethan nodded in understanding. He knew the exhibition meant a lot to Brenna, and missing it wasn¡¯t an option for her.


    ¡°Go on,¡± he said softly. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about me.¡±


    When Ethan returned to his hospital room, he spotted Elsa and Minna sitting on the sofa, chatting.


    Ethan¡¯s expression turned cold. Without a word, he walked to the bed and slowly removed his suit jacket, careful not to jostle his injured arm.


    Minna wanted to help him but felt a bit shy.


    Elsa gave Minna a pointed look, silently urging her to help.


    Taking the cue, Minna stepped forward and reached out to assist Ethan.


    ¡°No need for your help,¡± Ethan said, avoiding her hand without even a nce. The coldness in his voice sent a chill down her spine. ¡°I can manage on my own.¡±


    Minna stiffened and quickly pulled her hand back.


    ¡°Why refuse her help? Be careful not to reopen your wound. She¡¯s only trying to be considerate. You shouldn¡¯t be so cold to her,¡± Elsa scolded Ethan.


    Minna lowered her eyes, not daring to press further. The tension in the room was thick, and she feared that if she insisted, Ethan might respond even more harshly.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go get you some food,¡± she said, using it as an excuse to leave.


    Ethan had already shrugged off his jacket and tossed it onto the chair beside him. ¡°I¡¯ve already eaten.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s frustration deepened. ¡°You went out to eat? No wonder I couldn¡¯t find you earlier. Why are you always so difficult? The doctor said to avoid unnecessary exposure. What if your wound gets infected when you¡¯re out?¡±


    ¡°Focus on your own life,¡± Ethan said, looking her in the eye. ¡°I told you yesterday, you don¡¯t need to concern yourself with me. There are enough people looking after me. Go manage your own responsibilities. Don¡¯t you have a job at school? Did your boss approve your leave just so you could y nurse here? You¡¯ve barely started, and you¡¯re already asking for time off. I doubt your boss is thrilled about that.¡±


    Ethany on the bed, eyes closed, his patience wearing thin. He was trying to rest when the door opened.


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    Christopher stepped in, followed by a small group of intern doctors trailing behind him. Nearly fifty, he was a seasoned expert in burn treatment.


    ¡°Mrs. Mitchell, you¡¯re here early?¡± he said to Elsa warmly.


    Elsa stood and returned the smile. ¡°I just arrived.¡±


    Christopher approached Ethan¡¯s bedside. Just then, a nurse came over and said, ¡°Dr. Pierce, Mr. Mitchell wasn¡¯t in the wardst night. This morning, we tried to take his temperature and blood pressure, but he was gone. He must have just returned.¡±


    Ethan cracked one eye open to look at the nurse. She appeared to be in her twenties, kind-looking but blunt, clearly not one to sugarcoat things. He sighed inwardly. Would it have killed her to cover for him a little?


    The nurse handed him a thermometer with the same no-nonsense tone. ¡°Please take your temperature.¡±


    With a slight grumble, Ethan took it and tucked it under his arm. The nurse then moved on to check his blood pressure.


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 Chapter 715

    ?Chapter 715:


    Elsa stood frozen, stunned by the revtion. So Ethan hadn¡¯t just stepped out for air this morning¡ªhe hadn¡¯t been in the hospital at all sincest night.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you listen to the doctor? What if your wound gets infected?¡± she snapped.


    Ethan looked at her, his expression unreadable. ¡°But I didn¡¯t. I¡¯m fine, aren¡¯t I?¡±


    Elsa let out an irritated huff but said nothing.


    Christopher approached the bed and asked a few routine questions. ¡°If there¡¯s no emergency, you¡¯re not going anywhere tonight. Even a CEO needs to follow the doctor¡¯s advice.¡±


    Ethan nodded.


    Just then, his phone rang. He nced at the screen. Seeing it was Neville calling, he picked up calmly and said, ¡°Speak.¡±


    Across the room, Minna watched Ethan intently. She couldn¡¯t look away. There was something about the way he carried himself that pulled her inpletely.


    Neville¡¯s voice came through the line. ¡°The money transferred to Jane¡¯s ount dide from Plieca. It was withdrawn from an ATM on Arcade Avenue. Our contacts there reviewed the surveince footage. The person who made the transaction was a man with no notable background¡ªjust a regr employee at a trustpany, with no ties to the royal family. The strange part is, the money didn¡¯te from his own ount. He used someone else¡¯s bank card. The card belongs to a man named Ronan Santos. Clean record, no history of criminal activity. He ims he lost the card three days ago.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s expression remained calm, but he was dissatisfied with the oue. ¡°So, in other words, we still don¡¯t have anything.¡±


    ¡°Give me a bit more time,¡± Neville said. The culprit had been extremely cautious this time. Whoever was behind this was likely afraid of retaliation from Ethan and the Harper family.


    ¡°Alright. By the way, have Rex bring the documents that need my attention to the hospital.¡± Ethan nced over at Christopher, who was still deep in conversation with Elsa. Ignoring the doctor¡¯s earlier warning, he calmly said into the phone, ¡°I can only leave the hospital this afternoon.¡±


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    Neville hesitated. ¡°What about the meetings scheduled for this morning? You were supposed to meet with representatives from the Brezenia Group to finalize the coboration project. In the afternoon, there¡¯s a site inspection at Plomond. The other two executives are tied up with their own appointments. Should we postpone everything?¡±


    Ethan¡¯s tone didn¡¯t waver. ¡°Reschedule the Brezenia Group meeting for tonight. The afternoon ns stay as they are.¡±


    Christopher turned sharply, having caught every word. ¡°You¡¯re a patient. Can¡¯t you set work aside for a single day?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m really busy. Sorry,¡± Ethan replied.


    Christopher understood the type of man Ethan was. The fact that he even came in for treatment, and on time at that, was already more than most would expect. Hoping he¡¯d stay put in the hospital like an ordinary patient for a full 24 hours was simply unrealistic.


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 Chapter 716

    ?Chapter 716:


    Without pressing further, Christopher nodded to the interns and led them out.


    Elsa followed them into the hallway to see them off.


    Inside the room, Minna cautiously stepped forward and asked Ethan, ¡°Do you want some water?¡±


    ¡°Get out.¡± Ethan didn¡¯t even bother to look at her. With Elsa gone, he no longer felt the need to hold back. ¡°From now on, unless I say otherwise, don¡¯t show your face in front of me again.¡±


    Minna¡¯s lips trembled as she bit down hard, trying to swallow the sting of humiliation. But Ethan¡¯s intimidating presence left no room for protest. Without another word, she grabbed her purse and left the room.


    By the time Elsa came back in, Minna was already gone. She nced around, confused. ¡°Where¡¯s Minna?¡±


    ¡°She went to get water,¡± Ethan lied without missing a beat. Elsa¡¯s eyes flicked to the unopened bottle of water already sitting on the table. Her suspicion red, but she didn¡¯t say anything.


    ¡°My assistant will be here soon,¡± Ethan said calmly. ¡°You don¡¯t need to stay. Go take care of your own work.¡±


    Elsa hesitated. She had a ss at ten, and staying longer would only make herte. She sighed heavily and said, ¡°Alright. Just remember, Minna genuinely likes you. It¡¯s not about your money. You don¡¯t always have to be so cold. Be nice to her.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    The moment the door clicked shut behind Elsa, Ethan leaned back and exhaled. Finally, some peace.


    Soon after, a nurse entered the room to set up his IV drip.


    At the exhibition, Brenna arrived to find the atmosphere noticeably different. Special police officers were patrolling the area, and the crowd had swelled since the day before.


    Her team¡¯s booth was already surrounded by curious onlookers. Tommy was in the thick of it, enthusiastically demonstrating the products and answering questions.


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    Brenna walked over and gave him a look. ¡°I told you to rest at home. Why are you here?¡±


    ¡°I just have a minor injury. I don¡¯t need to rest at home,¡± Tommy replied. ¡°As for you¡­ You came here on your own? What if someone tries to attack you again? You should have brought someone to protect you.¡±


    Throughout the day, Brenna was swamped, utterly drained from handling a flood of orders, especially international ones, which kepting in nonstop. She had never anticipated that the stripped-down version of the mechanical arm she crafted for Edward, with only its core features, would be such a hit.


    Given the global demand for assistive devices among people with disabilities, she was already envisioning her next project: a practical mechanical leg.


    After the grueling workday, Brenna decided to treat her team to a meal. Originally, she had nned to dine with Ethan at the hospital, but after texting him, she learned he was tied up withmitments that evening, so she gave up on the idea.


    On Monday, Brenna headed to her workce as usual. Barely settled at her desk, she received a call from Shirie University¡¯s academic office. ¡°Ms. Harper, your final lecture is scheduled for Tuesday. The students have greatly appreciated your sessions, and we would like to offer you a permanent teaching role for our graduate students in the mechanical engineering department. Are you interested?¡±


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 Chapter 717

    ?Chapter 717:


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I can¡¯t take it on. My current job is too demanding, and I simply don¡¯t have the time for that. After tomorrow¡¯s lecture, I won¡¯t be returning. Thank you for the opportunity,¡± Brenna responded politely.


    Her workload was overwhelming, the university¡¯s pay was modest, and she found designing far more fulfilling than teaching.


    On Tuesday afternoon, Brenna arrived at Shirie University to deliver her scheduled lecture. She had four sessions lined up, and during a break between them, she spotted Elsa lingering outside the ssroom, shing a smile that seemed forced.


    Brenna sensed Elsa had ulterior motives; though it felt unkind to assume malice, she was convinced Elsa¡¯s intentions weren¡¯t good. The students in the room turned to stare, instantly recognizing Elsa. They knew she was a famous singer and a professor here. They looked at her with admiration.


    Brenna had no desire to confront Elsa publicly. If Elsa brought up parting ways with Ethan again, she decided she would just agree for now.


    She unclipped her wireless mic and stepped outside calmly.


    The ssroom buzzed as students milled about, some passing through the doorway, creating a small crowd.


    ¡°Mrs. Mitchell, what brings you here?¡± Brenna asked as she approached, noticing Elsa wasn¡¯t alone; Minna and Kenny apanied her. Kenny, dressed in a suit rather than his usual military uniform, could easily be mistaken for Ethan by those unfamiliar with Ethan.


    Brenna instantly recognized Kenny, despite his striking resemnce to Ethan. She had seen through Elsa¡¯s trick thest time, letting Kenny pretend to be Ethan, and now Elsa was trying it again.


    Brenna gave Kenny a subtle nod. ¡°Mr. Kenny Mitchell, is there something you need?¡± she asked, her tone neutral.


    She couldn¡¯t help but notice how closely Kenny stood to Minna.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that Ethan, the head of the Mitchell Group?¡± ¡°He¡¯s so handsome!¡±


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    The students nearby started whispering excitedly.


    Just as Brenna had expected, passersby mistook Kenny for Ethan. Elsa, reveling in the confusion, believed she had finally outmaneuvered Brenna.


    ¡°I¡¯m here to share some news about my son, Ethan¡­¡± she dered loudly, making sure her voice carried to the surrounding crowd.


    Brenna stayed calm, her eyes scanning the nearby students. Several were eagerly recording the scene with their phones, though she wasn¡¯t sure if they were fixated on Kenny¡¯s appearance or stunned by Elsa¡¯s im of being Ethan¡¯s mother.


    Seeing so many people taking photos and videos, Elsa continued, ¡°My son Ethan is now officially in a rtionship with Minna. They¡¯ve exchanged engagement rings and gone public with theirmitment. Please stop bothering Ethan anymore.¡±


    At that moment, Brenna noticed Kenny and Minna¡¯s intertwined hands, each wearing a ring.


    A faint smirk crossed her face. She said, ¡°Do you honestly believe Ethan will acknowledge this? Do you think he¡¯s that easy to control?¡±


    Though Brenna had intended to be civil with Elsa, now that seemed unnecessary.


    Turning her attention to Kenny, Brenna chose not to unmask him outright.


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 Chapter 718

    ?Chapter 718:


    She trusted that Kenny, a soldier with a sense of integrity, wouldn¡¯t do something reckless, even if he was roped into Elsa¡¯s scheme.


    ¡°Miss Harper, I¡¯m engaged to Minna now. We should break up,¡± Kenny said, his voice strained. He felt trapped¡ªElsa had threatened tomit suicide if he didn¡¯tply.


    Though it seemed far-fetched, he knew his mother¡¯s history of drastic measures to bend him to her will, even though those incidents stayed out of the public eye.


    Reluctantly, he hade here with her.


    ¡°Very well,¡± Brenna responded, pulling out her phone to snap a quick picture of Kenny and Minna. She then waved her phone triumphantly. ¡°Kenny, are you certain about this engagement to Minna? I can pass the word to your superiors for you.¡±


    Kenny¡¯s unease was palpable; he knew Brenna had ties within the military.


    Elsa, however, remained unfazed. With her husband¡¯s military rank and her father-inw¡¯s extensive connections in the military, she dismissed the idea that Brenna could do anything to her family.


    Kenny felt a wave of unease wash over him. He believed he had done his utmost to mirror Ethan¡¯s demeanor, yet Brenna had still seen right through his facade. ¡°Miss Harper, let¡¯s just part ways in peace,¡± he said, still pretending to be Ethan.


    Minna also spoke up, her voice full of confidence. It was the first time she had spoken so assertively in front of Brenna. ¡°Yes, Ethan has chosen me. He doesn¡¯t like you anymore, so please stop bothering him.¡±


    Brenna nearly burst intoughter, her anger simmering just beneath the surface. ¡°Who exactly is bothering him?¡±


    Sensing the moment was charged with tension, Elsa stepped forward, closing the gap between herself and Brenna. ¡°With so many witnesses present, I felt it necessary to tackle this issue head-on. I had hoped for a private discussion, but you¡¯ve chosen to ignore the reality of the situation. My son has repeatedly asked you to leave him be, yet you persist, clinging to him, believing yourself to be a perfect match for him. Your actions have caused him considerable distress and have impacted his future wife. Please, have some dignity and stop bothering my son. Did you hear me, Miss Harper?¡±


    Minna said with a biting tone, ¡°Exactly! How can someone with such questionable ethics still have the right to be a teacher? If everyone knew you were shamelessly holding onto a man who doesn¡¯t love you, would they still respect you? You should give up quickly!¡±


    Dive into tales at g¦Á? ¦Ç¦Ò ¦Í?? ??s,


    Brenna shook her head, seeing through Elsa¡¯s tactic, which, despite its crudeness, was working. The crowd surrounding them had already begun their whispers of judgment.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t I just consent to ending our rtionship? Why are you all still here, talking to me? Kenny, is parting with me so difficult for you? As a soldier, don¡¯t sacrifice your career over trivial matters like this. But since you are doing this, why should I hold back?¡± Brenna turned to address the gathered students, saying, ¡°Don¡¯t be deceived. This man standing before you isn¡¯t Ethan from the Mitchell Group at all, but a military pilot¡ª¡±


    ¡°How dare you!¡± Elsa eximed, rage contorting her features. She refused to let Brenna destroy Kenny¡¯s future. Should Brenna reveal theplete truth, Kenny would face the consequences of viting military protocol.


    She shoved Brenna forcefully.


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 Chapter 719

    ?Chapter 719:


    Brenna instinctively raised her hands to defend herself, but the force of the shove sent Elsa reeling backward toward the staircase. ¡°Ah!¡± Elsa cried out as she fell.


    At that critical moment, Kenny¡¯s military training kicked in. He dashed forward and caught Elsa securely around the waist. ¡°Brenna! This crosses every line. You refuse to break up with me and now you try to harm my mother? How could any woman be like you?¡± Kenny¡¯s tone carried a forced edge of reproach, though he felt no pleasure in delivering it. Given how the situation had escted¡ªwith Brenna nearly exposing his true identity¡ªhe knew he had to act convincingly. Under no circumstances could he allow anyone to doubt that he was Ethan.


    Terror gripped Elsa; had she actually fallen down those stairs, the injuries could have been serious.


    ¡°Brenna, you¡¯ve gone too far. I approached this conversation with dignity and respect, yet you refuse to ept reality. Here and now, I officially dere my son¡¯s engagement to Minna! Your connection to him ispletely severed! We¡¯re leaving!¡± Elsa said firmly, sensing that their objective had been achieved. Prolonging the confrontation could give Brenna an opportunity to turn the tables.


    The trio departed, leaving Brenna simmering with indignation.


    The ten-minute break between sessions vanished amidst the confrontation. Brenna realized, with growing frustration, that she hadn¡¯t even found a moment to inform Ethan about what had just happened. Elsa had clearly orchestrated everything with precise timing and calcted strategy.


    By the time Brenna finished her lectures, news of the incident had already spread widely on online tforms.


    Ethan, just finishing a meeting, stared at his phone in disbelief at the drama his mother and brother had stirred up.


    His fist mmed down on the desk in unrestrained anger. ¡°I guess Kenny¡¯s tired of being a pilot, daring to pull such a stunt!¡±


    Neville stood before him and asked, ¡°Mr. Mitchell, shall we release an official statement?¡±


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    ¡°Not yet. Fire Minna first,¡± Ethan said, reaching for his phone to contact Brenna.


    She answered the call promptly. ¡°That wasn¡¯t you today, right?¡±


    ¡°I truly had no idea my mother would stoop to such underhanded tactics. Brenna, please ept my apology,¡± Ethan said.


    Neville quickly stepped out, noticing the secretarial staff gathered near the doorway, watching Ethan closely. Rex stood by the door.


    ¡°Rex, did Minna report for work today?¡± Neville asked.


    ¡°No, she requested personal leave,¡± Rex replied immediately, sensing the brewing storm.


    ¡°Contact her at once and inform her she¡¯s fired. She doesn¡¯t need toe back tomorrow. Make sure the entire industry knows and that she¡¯s permanently cklisted.¡±


    The secretaries, who had been eavesdropping, had already seen the news and privately marveled at Minna¡¯s audacity.


    But hearing Neville¡¯s order, they all realized Minna¡¯s career was finished. Did she truly believe Ethan was someone she could easily manipte? Did she think his affection could be bought with scheming?


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 Chapter 720

    Chapter 720:


    She thought winning over Ethan¡¯s mother would guarantee his heart? That was simply ridiculous.


    ¡°Rex, that guy in the video¡­ It¡¯s not our CEO, right?¡± ni whispered, curiosity burning in her eyes.


    With a stern expression, Rex addressed everyone in the room. ¡°Get back to work. I don¡¯t want to hear any more gossip. The CEO¡¯s in a bad mood today. Keep talking, and you might find yourself fired.¡±


    ni quickly retreated to her desk. She knew better than to push when Rex was like this.


    As soon as Rex left, the room buzzed with chatter again.


    Someone murmured, ¡°No way that¡¯s Mr. Mitchell in the video.¡±


    ¡°Definitely not. He¡¯s not that type. No offense, but someone like Minna? She¡¯s nowhere near his league.¡±


    ¡°Exactly. If Mr. Mitchell liked women like her, I¡¯d be Mrs. Mitchell by now.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just saying, Minna really is foolish for doing that. What was she thinking?¡±


    ¡°Shhh! Mr. Mitchell ising out of his office. Quiet, now!¡±


    Ethan stepped out of his office, his suit jacket hanging loosely over his shoulders. When he heard the murmuring from the secretarial department, his brows furrowed in irritation.


    His injured arm hadn¡¯t healed yet, and work had been relentless these past few days. This ridiculous rumor with Minna was thest thing he needed. Fortunately, Brenna hadn¡¯t med him for the matter; otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t know what to do.


    With his phone pressed to his ear, he coldly asked, ¡°Where are you?¡±


    The secretaries fell silent immediately and cast nervous nces his way as he passed.


    Once Ethan stepped into the elevator and the doors closed, the secretaries started gossiping again.


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    ¡°Oh my god. Did you see that look on his face? I¡¯ve never seen him that furious before.¡±


    ¡°Who do you think he was talking to on the phone?¡±


    ¡°Did you notice Neville and Rex went with him? I bet he¡¯s going after Minna. She¡¯s in deep trouble for sure.¡±


    ¡°She had iting. She really crossed the line this time. Doesn¡¯t even know her ce. If it were me, I¡¯d never have dared to join the secretarial department in the first ce.¡±


    ¡°Seriously. What about the man in the video, though? He looked exactly like Mr. Mitchell.¡±


    ¡°Maybe Mr. Mitchell has a twin brother.¡±


    ¡°But we¡¯ve never heard anything about Mr. Mitchell having a twin.¡±


    ¡°Please. There¡¯s a lot we don¡¯t know. Think about it¡ªaside from his mother, have you ever seen any other family member of Mr. Mitchell?¡±


    ¡°Good point.¡±


    ¡°I wonder¡­ Will Brenna break up with Mr. Mitchell over this?¡±


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    Message from Noah: Good night dear ones. God loves you and Noah whishes you all the best. (? ?? ? ¨C ? ) ?


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 Chapter 721

    ?Chapter 721:


    Meanwhile, Brenna drove home. She parked the car and stepped out, just then spotting Giselle standing in the yard, deep in conversation on the phone.


    ¡°What you did was too much. You humiliated my daughter! Do you really think no one else would want her besides your son? Let me tell you, Elsa, even if you one day agree to let your son marry my daughter, I won¡¯t agree to their marriage!¡±


    Whatever Elsa said only fueled Giselle¡¯s anger. She continued fiercely, ¡°Is your son really that amazing? Please. There are plenty of men out there who are better than him.¡±


    Brenna stood quietly to the side, watching. It was rare to see Giselle this upset. Since returning to the Harper family, Brenna had never seen her mother argue like this.


    ¡°My daughter is not someone you can just walk over,¡± Giselle snapped. ¡°Don¡¯t think you can ruin her name with a single video clip and get away with it. I¡¯m warning you, this isn¡¯t over. You¡¯re a famous singer, aren¡¯t you? And your son, the so-called brilliant pilot? I¡¯ll make sure both your reputations are dragged through the mud!¡±


    ¡°What are you doing? He¡¯s your brother! You can¡¯t hit him. Stop it!¡± Elsa¡¯s voice came through the phone, shrill and panicked. The next second, she ended the call.


    ¡°Hello? Hello!¡± Giselle shouted into the phone, her chest still heaving with rage. She wasn¡¯t finished talking to Elsa. She redialed, but this time, the call went straight to voicemail.


    ¡°This is infuriating,¡± said Giselle, her voice tight with emotion. When she turned and saw Brenna standing nearby, a wave of guilt washed over her. ¡°Dear, I failed to protect you. You¡¯ve been wronged, and I won¡¯t let it slide. If Elsa wants to oppose your rtionship in private, fine. But to drag your name through the mud in front of everyone? To humiliate you like that? I won¡¯t stand for it.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s mood was also unsettled. She had never imagined that Elsa, soposed and refined in public, could do something like that. It made her question everything¡ªeven her future with Ethan.


    Giselle pulled Brenna into a tight embrace. ¡°When your dad and brother get home, we¡¯ll discuss the matter. This time, we won¡¯t y nice. If it means cutting ties with the Mitchells, so be it. Elsa¡¯s a public figure. She knew exactly what she was doing. Setting you up and twisting the truth is despicable. Since she did that, we won¡¯t hold back anymore.¡± Then, she pulled out her phone and held it up. ¡°Look at this part of the video¡ªthree minutes and twenty-one seconds in. You can see it clearly. She shoved you first and then stepped back, making it seem like you were the one who pushed her. Nowizens are using you of attacking an elderly woman and disrespecting a public figure.¡±


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    Brenna had seen the video already but hadn¡¯t publicly rified the situation.


    As Brenna and Giselle stepped into the house, Brenna¡¯s phone rang. It was Tommy calling.


    ¡°¡®Brenna, I talked to some of the students who were there. They confirmed it. You didn¡¯t push Mrs. Mitchell. I¡¯ve posted a statement on ourpany site, and a few students released their own, backing you up. But honestly, the support¡¯s thin. Not many are defending you. You need to talk to Mr. Mitchell and have him rify the situation.¡±


    In the military district, within the Mitchell family residence, Ethan had deployed twenty bodyguards from thepany, establishing a perimeter around the entire courtyard. He had Kenny pinned firmly to the ground; both of them bore bruises and dirt-smudged clothing. Neville and Rex stood on either side, clutching their phones¡ªone taking photographs, the other recording video footage.


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 Chapter 722

    ?Chapter 722:


    Kenny shot venomous res at the two with phones, his alertness heightened. His position as a fighter pilot demanded confidentiality, and outsiders were strictly forbidden from taking photos or videos of him. Despite his repeated warnings, Rex and Neville answered only to Ethan¡¯s authority, ignoring Kenny¡¯s protests. Military protocol existed for good reason, and breaches of information were serious offenses.


    ¡°Ethan, what game are you ying? Tell them to delete those recordings and photos, or I will teach you a lesson,¡± Kenny growled through clenched teeth.


    Neville and Rex pinned his hands firmly to the ground with their feet. Under normal circumstances, he could match Ethan inbat, but now, he stood no chance.


    Ethan, ignoring the pain in his arm, punched Kenny hard in the face. ¡°You pretended to be me and tried to deceive Brenna. I warned you then¡ªinterfere in my personal matters again, and retribution would follow. You clearly didn¡¯t take that warning seriously.¡±


    Kenny felt a sh of guilt mixed with difort, avoiding Ethan¡¯s gaze. ¡°Mom told me to do it.¡±


    ¡°Are you a soldier or just your mother¡¯s puppet? Why follow her orders so blindly? What if she told you to jump off a cliff?¡± Ethan had reached his limit. Though they shared identical gics, their personalities were worlds apart¡ªsomething Ethan struggled to understand.


    Kenny bristled with rage. ¡°Ridiculous! You criticize me for being obedient? I just don¡¯t want to upset Mom. Order them to stop recording me immediately.¡±


    ¡°I have always walked my own path. Neither Mom nor Dad dictates my actions. Do you think I would listen to you?¡± Ethan retorted,nding another blow on Kenny.


    The impact loosened Kenny¡¯s teeth, forcing his head sideways. Fury coursed through him, yet his immobilized limbs rendered him powerless to retaliate. Through gritted teeth, he said, ¡°What exactly do you want, Ethan? I am your brother. A few punches for emotional release should be enough for you. What purpose does recording me serve?¡±


    ¡°I will let your superiors see the recording,¡± Ethan replied.


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    ¡°You wouldn¡¯t dare!¡±


    ¡°You can wait and see. How many times have you underestimated my resolve?¡± Ethan said.


    After a pause, he continued, ¡°However,ply with my demands¡ªapologize to my girlfriend on camera and acknowledge your impersonation¡ªperhaps then I won¡¯t send the video to your superiors.¡±


    ¡°Ethan, he is your brother! Release him now!¡± Elsa pounded desperately against the door. Locked inside with bodyguards stationed at every exit, she remained powerless to intervene, forced to witness Kenny endure Ethan¡¯s merciless beating.


    No matter how much Elsa shouted, Ethan remained deaf to her pleas.


    With his patience wearing dangerously thin, Ethan presented Kenny one final ultimatum. ¡°Make your choice now. Comply or face whates next. Don¡¯t me me for being cruel when you face the consequences.¡±


    Kenny fixed him with a defiant stare. ¡°Cruel? I¡¯m your brother; how cruel are you going to be to me? I am curious to see how cruel you can be.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s voice turned icy. ¡°I will ask onest time. Will you do as I demand?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Kenny answered without hesitation. Deep down, he didn¡¯t believe Ethan would truly go through with destroying his military career.


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 Chapter 723

    ?Chapter 723:


    Ethan replied, ¡°Very well. Since you refuse, prepare for what follows. We are done here.¡± With that, Ethan and his bodyguards left.


    Elsa burst through the door, rushing to help her injured son stand, her heart torn with anguish. ¡°Ethan is really out of line this time! Look what he has done to you! I won¡¯t let him off easily!¡±


    Kenny touched his swollen face, spitting blood onto the ground. Despite everything, he acknowledged his wrongdoing and epted the beating without harboring resentment toward Ethan. ¡°I will need time to recover before returning to duty.¡±


    He even attempted tofort his mother, saying, ¡°Mom, these injuries will heal. Save your worry. This incident will surely drive Ethan to end things with Brenna.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s earlier rage suggested that Brenna had probably told Ethan she wanted to break up with him. With tears welling in her eyes, Elsa guided Kenny inside to apply medication. ¡°As long as he doesn¡¯t marry Brenna, I care little whether he chooses Minna or someone else to marry. Any other woman would be eptable.¡±


    Inside the car, Neville eyed the blood trickling down Ethan¡¯s arm with concern. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, your wound requires medical attention.¡± Ethan looked calm, ncing briefly at his bleeding injury without showing difort. After a moment¡¯s consideration, he instructed Neville, ¡°Forward the video footage andparison photographs to Kenny¡¯s military superiors immediately.¡±


    Neville and Rex exchanged knowing nces, both aware that Ethan¡¯s twin brother served as a distinguished fighter pilot. If the video and photos were sent to Kenny¡¯s superiors, it would destroy his career.


    Yet Ethan had already made the decision.


    ¡°Yes, Mr. Mitchell.¡±


    During dinner, the Harper family gathered around the table, discussing how to handle the situation with the Mitchell family. Ernst, noticing his parents¡¯ growing frustration, tried to calm them. ¡°You¡¯ve got the wrong idea about Ethan. I¡¯ve known him for years and can vouch for his character. The man in the video is his twin brother, not him.¡±


    Giselle was the most furious. The thought of the incident ignited her anger, tempting her to call Elsa directly to express her outrage. ¡°Ernst, stop defending Ethan. What his mother did to Brenna was uneptable! If today¡¯s incident hadn¡¯t happened and I hadn¡¯t asked Brenna about it, we would still be in the dark. Since his mother looks down on Brenna, I have no respect for her son either!¡±


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    Shepard nodded in agreement. ¡°That¡¯s right. I¡¯ve already instructed security to deny entry to Ethan and any other Mitchell family members.¡± Giselle added, ¡°Unless Ethan and his mother properly apologize to Brenna, I won¡¯t allow Ethan here again. They can¡¯t just push us around like that.¡±


    While the family debated, Brenna remained quiet, her head bowed. Had Giselle not pressed her for answers, she would never have revealed how Ethan¡¯s mother had humiliated her. She focused on her meal until she heard security personnel outside trying to turn someone away.


    The others noticed themotion too. Suspecting Ethan¡¯s arrival, Brenna stood up to check on the situation. Giselle heard Ethan¡¯s voice and immediately warned her, ¡°Stay put! Even if Ethan treats you well and protects you, his failure to handle his family¡¯s misconduct after what they did to you speaks volumes. He needs to learn his lesson. Don¡¯t go to him.¡±


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 Chapter 724

    ?Chapter 724:


    Reluctantly, Brenna sat back down, worried Ethan might try to force his way in. As she feared, Ethan got into a physical fight with the security guards outside.


    The Harper family rushed out to intervene.


    Several Harper security personnely incapacitated on the ground, while Ethan grappled with another guard, executing a skillful shoulder throw.


    ¡°Enough!¡± Shepard stormed forward, ring at Ethan. ¡°Isn¡¯t it enough that your mother degraded Brenna and humiliated our family? And now youe here to start a fight?¡±


    Ethan immediately stopped and stepped back. ¡°Mr. Harper, you misunderstand the situation. I came to offer my apologies. If I dy this, I fear Brenna and your family will misunderstand me. What happened today was not my doing; my mother acted independently. I have no intention of ending my rtionship with Brenna. Please hear me out before passing judgment.¡±


    Giselle, having reached her limit, interjected, ¡°Enough with the exnations. I believe you want to stay with Brenna. However, I remain convinced that you two are ipatible. Please stop bothering her. We refuse to get involved in your family¡¯s problems. Just leave.¡±


    Brenna kept herposure, sensing Ethan¡¯s genuine concern but feeling the matter didn¡¯t need to be addressed now. ¡°You should resolve your family issues first. We can talk about our rtionship after that.¡±


    Giselle noticed Brenna¡¯s attempt tofort Ethan privately and her reluctance to end things. She scolded Brenna, ¡°Haven¡¯t you suffered enough humiliation from his mother? Do you want more? Cut ties with Ethan. I will introduce you to someone new tomorrow.¡±


    Brenna quickly yielded. ¡°Mom, I will listen to you and stop talking to Ethan.¡±


    Giselle scoffed dismissively and pushed Ethan back physically. Despite his strength, Ethan dared not retaliate and retreated.


    ¡°I promise to fully exin today¡¯s events. Please give me a chance. I will handle this properly.¡± Never before had Ethan spoken with such humility.


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    Ernst and Brenna remained silent, trusting Ethan¡¯s character and understanding his strained family ties. They saw this as a misunderstanding.


    However, Shepard and Giselle believed Ethan would not resolve this soon. They ushered Ernst and Brenna back inside.


    Outside, Neville watched Ethan¡¯s somber expression, unsure how tofort him. He silently opened the car door.


    Rex remained quiet, taking the front seat beside Neville.


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell, we should head to the hospital to treat your injuries.¡±


    Just then, Ethan¡¯s phone vibrated with a message from Brenna, instantly lifting his spirits.


    ¡°You still have injuries. Get them properly treated and take care of yourself.¡±


    Though Brenna didn¡¯t mention the day¡¯s incident, Ethan felt a deep sense of relief from her concern, the tension in his brow visibly softening.


    ¡°To the hospital,¡± Ethan said to Rex.


    He then replied to Brenna, ¡°I¡¯ll handle this. Trust me.¡±


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 Chapter 725

    Chapter 725:


    On Wednesday, Shirie was drenched in a relentless downpour. Brenna drove herself to work today. Her parents had firmly insisted the day before that she avoid letting Ethan drive her, and Brenna herself recognized the impracticality of the arrangement.


    After all, Ethan¡¯s presence at the Mitchell Group headquarters was irregr. His days were typically filled with meetings, site inspections, and business negotiations at various branch offices, leaving his schedule perpetually packed. He didn¡¯te to headquarters often, so it wasn¡¯t convenient for him to drive her every day.


    As November brought cooler temperatures, Brenna chose long pants and a jacket for work. Just as she entered the ground floor lobby and began folding her umbre, someone suddenly collided forcefully with her from behind.


    With a distinct tter, her umbre dropped to the floor. Brenna looked up to see a man hurrying past, not sparing her even a backward nce, much less offering an apology.


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell!¡± The four receptionists at the front desk greeted him with formal politeness.


    After the man entered the elevator, one receptionist turned to her colleagues with evident confusion. ¡°Why has Mr. Mitchell changed his hairstyle today? Itcks the elegance of his usual style.¡±


    Another said, ¡°Indeed, Mr. Mitchell is behaving oddly today. He passed by Miss Harper without even speaking to her.¡± The first receptionist approached Brenna, who was still momentarily bewildered, picked up her umbre for her, and asked, ¡°Are you alright, Miss Harper?¡±


    Brenna watched the man in the ck suit enter the elevator. When he turned around, recognition dawned¡ªit was Kenny.


    What was he doing here?


    Mitchell family members rarely visited Ethan¡¯spany for two clear reasons. One was that most Mitchell men traditionally pursued military careers, living disciplined and discreet lives. The other was that the Mitchell Group was Ethan¡¯s ownpany, not a family enterprise, so family members only appeared for significant matters and never interfered in Ethan¡¯s business.


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    Neville noticed the receptionists engaged in gossip and was displeased. The receptionists were startled to see Ethan. The male receptionist farthest from the entrance stepped forward to intercept him. He confirmed it was indeed Ethan, sporting his usual hairstyle.


    He spoke nervously. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, there¡¯s a situation. Someone who looks exactly like you just came in, though with a different hairstyle and wearing a ck suit. He seemed angry.¡±


    ¡°It must be Kenny!¡± Ethan immediately understood.


    The male receptionist asked, ¡°Should we send security to apany you upstairs?¡±


    ¡°Have security go upstairs in five minutes,¡± Ethan ordered as he hurried toward the elevator, heading to the top floor.


    When Kenny exited the elevator, he quickly surveyed the simpleyout: the CEO¡¯s office, the secretarial department, and tworge conference rooms.


    He easily identified Ethan¡¯s office and approached it with purpose. The door was ajar, and ni was inside organizing materials.


    ni turned and noticed Kenny immediately. She instantly realized he wasn¡¯t Ethan, knowing Ethan¡¯s preferences well and certain he would never wear such an unfashionable hairstyle.


    ¡°May I ask who you¡¯re looking for?¡± she inquired.


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    .<hr>


    Message from Noah: Hope you liked the chapters dear readers, this week I will release new novels in mass, so I hope you like the new content I bring to gal. God loves you and Noah whishes you all the best. ?( ?? ? ?? )?


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    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


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 Chapter 726

    ?Chapter 726:


    ni was on high alert when two male secretaries approached. They interacted with Ethan the most, and although Kenny looked strikingly simr to Ethan, his hairstyle and walking posture were different. Most importantly, his aura and demeanor were not the same as Ethan¡¯s.


    ¡°State your name. Why are you pretending to be Mr. Mitchell?¡± one of the secretaries demanded, blocking Kenny¡¯s path. One of them called security, while the other dialed Ethan.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Ethan?¡± Kenny barely nced at them. He knew that if it came to force, neither of them could stand up to him. He pushed them aside and surveyed the office, checking every potential hiding spot¡ªthe lounge, the washroom¡ªno sign of Ethan.


    ¡°Where is Ethan?¡± he repeated, his tone sharp.


    ¡°I¡¯m here,¡± came Ethan¡¯s voice as he stepped off the elevator. Brenna arrived at the same moment, having taken a different elevator. Ethan¡¯s private elevator, designed for speed, had gotten him there first.


    Without hesitation, Kenny stormed toward them, ring at Brenna as though he wanted to tear her apart. Brenna met his gaze and noticed that he wasn¡¯t wearing his engagement ring anymore. A question burned in her mind. Why was he here? Did he really think he had a right to be angry after impersonating Ethan and causing him trouble?


    Just when Brenna thought Kenny was here to confront Ethan, he moved closer to her. His voice was sharp with usation. ¡°Was it you?¡±


    Brenna stood still, confused about what Kenny was using her of. His scowl might have rattled someone else, but not her. She had faced worse and hadn¡¯t flinched under pressure before. With a calm voice and a cool stare, she asked, ¡°What exactly are you using me of?¡±


    Ethan ced a hand on her arm and stepped in front of her. His expression was cold when he spoke to Kenny. ¡°You¡¯ve got a lot of guts, barging in here like this. Who said you could interrogate my girlfriend?¡±


    Kenny scoffed under his breath and pulled a crisp document from his inner pocket. With a sharp flick of his wrist, he unfolded it, revealing a bold red heading and the unmistakable mark of the military.


    Brenna narrowed her eyes and scanned the document. It didn¡¯t take long for her to recognize what it was¡ªa disciplinary order straight from military headquarters, dering Kenny¡¯s expulsion. Brenna let out a shortugh. ¡°Serves you right.¡±


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    Kenny said coldly, ¡°Was it you who reported me?¡±


    Brenna had always had a bad impression of him and had been looking for a chance to confront him. ¡°After what you pulled yesterday? You brought this on yourself.¡±


    Kenny took a step forward, his eyes zing with fury.


    Without a second thought, Ethan moved to intercept Kenny, while Neville quickly stepped forward to protect Brenna as well.


    Kenny didn¡¯t back down. He grabbed Ethan by the cor and hissed, ¡°She¡¯s a problem. Just to get close to you, she ruined my career.¡± Ethan pushed him away. ¡°I¡¯m the one who reported you.¡±


    Kenny staggered back, stunned. ¡°You¡¯re lying. We¡¯re brothers. We might fight, but you wouldn¡¯t go that far. Don¡¯t cover for her. I¡¯m not letting her off easily for this.¡±


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 Chapter 727

    ?Chapter 727:


    Brenna crossed her arms, watching the scene with detached amusement.


    ¡°I already said it wasn¡¯t me,¡± she said coolly. ¡°My family talked about it, sure. They were ready to report youst night. But after Ethan showed up and apologized, they let the matter go. And yet, here you are¡ªpunished anyway. I have to admit, it¡¯s satisfying.¡±


    Ethan admitted to Kenny, ¡°I reported you. You crossed a line when you pretended to be mest time. That stunt nearly wrecked my rtionship with Brenna. I warned you to stay out of my business, but you chose not to listen.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m your brother. You destroyed my future. Do you even understand what getting expelled from the military means for someone like me?¡± Kenny said.


    Ethan¡¯s mouth twisted into a dismissive smirk. ¡°I don¡¯t care. You¡¯ve always done whatever Mom says. I¡¯m sure she¡¯ll swoop in, pull a few strings, andnd you a cozy job somewhere. Then you can live out your days ying the perfect little mama¡¯s boy. Sounds ideal to you, doesn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°Ethan!¡± Kenny barked, his voice shaking with rage. He moved forward, but Neville shoved him back without hesitation. He staggered slightly, his eyes wild. ¡°You¡¯re lying. You¡¯re just trying to cover for her. There¡¯s no way you would¡¯ve done that. You wouldn¡¯t ruin my future like this.¡±


    Ethan turned to Neville with a calm nod. ¡°Send it to him.¡±


    Without dy, Neville pulled out his phone and forwarded a voice recording to Kenny.


    Kenny took out his phone and hit y. The voice recording confirmed that Ethan was the one who had reported him.


    ¡°I¡¯ll say this onest time,¡± Ethan said coldly. ¡°Stay out of my life. If you don¡¯t, next time, it won¡¯t end with just a report. Now, get out.¡±


    Kenny stood frozen, his eyes locked on Ethan in stunned disbelief. He yed the recording a second time, hoping it would sound different, but it didn¡¯t. Still, he couldn¡¯t bring himself to ept that his own brother had turned him in.


    Just then, Kenny¡¯s phone rang. He quickly answered it.


    ¡°Dad, it was Ethan. He¡¯s the one who reported me.¡± Kenny¡¯s eyes darkened with anger as he stepped into the elevator, phone pressed to his ear.


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    Ethan didn¡¯t spare him another nce, his focus solely on Brenna as he ushered her into the office. Before he could close the door, Neville¡¯s voice echoed. ¡°Minna? Weren¡¯t you fired? What are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°Ethan! Ethan!¡± Minna shouted toward the CEO¡¯s office, eager for an exnation. She pushed forward, trying to force her way in.


    But Neville blocked her path, standing firm.


    The door to the CEO¡¯s office mmed shut with a loud bang.


    ¡°I demand to see the CEO!¡± Minna dered, speaking as though she were already the CEO¡¯s wife. Her voice was far from courteous. ¡°Move aside! Do you know who I am? Your boss publicly acknowledged my status as his future wife yesterday.¡±


    Hearing that, Neville couldn¡¯t help butugh.


    He was not the only one who burst outughing. Minna¡¯s absurd im caused the entire secretarial department to erupt in derisiveughter.


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 Chapter 728

    ?Chapter 728:


    Minna felt flustered and snapped at thoseughing at her, ¡°What¡¯s so funny? I¡¯ll have your boss fire you all!¡±


    ¡°Quit causing a fuss and just go. You¡¯re wasting everyone¡¯s precious time,¡± Neville stated tly, taking hold of her arm and guiding her toward the elevator. Yet, Minna stood her ground, refusing to leave. ¡°I won¡¯t leave! I¡¯ve officially signed my employment contract and am still within my trial period. You can¡¯t fire me! I¡¯m the CEO¡¯s future wife!¡±


    Neville couldn¡¯t shake the thought of Minna¡¯s foolishness. He mused about how Elsa had managed to find someone so utterly stupid for Ethan.


    ¡°Minna, just give it a break already. Aren¡¯t you tired of putting on an act?¡± Neville sneered. ¡°The one who slipped that engagement ring on your finger and made your rtionship public wasn¡¯t my boss; it was his twin brother. If you¡¯re set on marrying someone from the Mitchell family, your only option is Kenny. As for my boss, he¡¯s already taken. His girlfriend is more beautiful, richer, and far morepetent than you. Stop embarrassing yourself here.¡±


    Minna froze, her body trembling. ¡°How do you know this?¡±


    Even ni couldn¡¯t take it any longer. ¡°Let me exin everything for you. Earlier, Mr. Mitchell¡¯s twin brother caused quite a scene here. Now we all know it was him pretending to be Mr. Mitchell yesterday, trying to break up with Brenna. Did you really think you could fool Mr. Mitchell and Brenna with such tricks?¡±


    Minna looked at the mocking faces of the secretarial staff and wished she could disappear into thin air.


    Just then, Brenna and Ethan came out of the CEO¡¯s office. Minna¡¯s eyes glowed with hope when she saw Ethan, believing he had changed his mind about firing her.


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell!¡± Minna called.


    Ethan walked toward her and stopped three steps away, his expression icy. ¡°You want to be a member of the Mitchell family?¡±


    Minna nodded with a sincere expression. ¡°I¡¯m the woman your mother selected for you. Weplement each other perfectly, Ethan. Brenna may be impressive and beautiful, but she isn¡¯t the right choice for you. Consider the bigger picture. You don¡¯t need a strong, independent woman as your wife; you need someone gentle to take care of you.¡±


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    ¡°That¡¯s enough!¡± Ethan interjected, his tone sharp. ¡°Stop speaking. I¡¯ll let you be a member of my family. You can go back now.¡±


    Minna¡¯s face lit up with a smile. She was certain that Ethan would break up with Brenna soon.


    Her eyes shone with warmth. ¡°I knew you wouldn¡¯t go against your mother¡¯s wishes.¡±


    Brenna couldn¡¯t help but let out augh at that.


    Ethan turned to Minna. ¡°Soon, you¡¯ll be my mother¡¯s daughter-inw and a member of the Mitchell family. Go home and wait for the announcement.¡±


    ¡°Great! When will you break up with Brenna?¡± Minna asked eagerly, her heart swelling with joy. At that moment, Brenna¡¯s presence beside Ethan felt especially offensive to her. She believed that spot next to him was meant for her and her alone.


    The secretarial staff froze in shock. Why was Ethan going to break up with Brenna? What was happening?


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 Chapter 729

    ?Chapter 729:


    But Neville was aware of Ethan¡¯s intentions. Ethan was about to make Minna marry Kenny.


    ¡°Why would I break up with Brenna?¡± Ethan asked, a faint smile ying on his lips.


    Minna was taken aback. ¡°We are about to get married. How can you still be with another woman?¡±


    Ethan gave a coldugh. ¡°You¡¯repletely mistaken. You are not going to marry me.¡±


    ¡°Then how am I supposed to be a member of the Mitchell family¡­¡± Mind racing, Minna trailed off. ¡°You want me to marry Kenny?¡± She suddenly understood the situation.


    ¡°Why not?¡± Ethan replied matter-of-factly. ¡°You two seem like the ideal fit, in my opinion. He publicly dered his feelings for you before. Who else would you marry if not him?¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡± Minna bit her lip, her voice trembling. ¡°No, no, that¡¯s not how it is. Listen to me. Your mother wanted me to marry you, not your brother. I¡¯ve always had feelings for you. Don¡¯t you understand?¡±


    Ethan shook his head. ¡°All I know is that you were the one who went on a date with him. And he dered his feelings for you in public. Therefore, if you want to be a member of the Mitchell family, you will marry him. I¡¯ve already announced the marriage for the two of you.¡±


    Minna stepped out of the elevator, her heart heavy. As she walked toward the exit, she spotted a man standing on the steps outside, talking on the phone. From afar, she couldn¡¯t tell who it was, but as she drew closer, she realized it was Kenny.


    Kenny¡¯s face showed his anger, though he was clearly trying to keep it in check. His tone was calm and respectful as he spoke into the phone. ¡°Please, just give me one more chance to exin. I had my reasons for doing what I did.¡± Whatever response he got caused his expression to contort with regret. ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll marry her. That should be enough, right? Pilots are allowed to get married. That should fix things, shouldn¡¯t it?¡±


    When Kenny eventually ended the call, his face twisted in despair as he sank to the ground,pletely unaware that someone was nearby.


    He sat there for a while until he nced over and saw Minna standing close by. Quickly, he masked his pain, stood up, and slipped back into his usualposed, determined self. He looked at Minna, noticing her red, puffy eyes. She looked like she¡¯d been crying, her whole body radiating defeat. ¡°Are you okay?¡± he asked.


    Kenny had no idea how much of his conversation with the militarymander had reached her ears, but judging by the exhaustion in her posture, she wasn¡¯t faring much better than he was.


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    His fingers curled tightly around his phone, his thoughts racing as a desperate n began to form in his mind. His father, uncles, and even his bedridden grandfather held considerable influence in the military. If his father pulled the right strings, maybe he could still stay in the military.


    He couldn¡¯t leave the military. Flying nes, following orders, and carrying out missions were all he had ever known. Beyond that, the world felt foreign to him.


    He had no idea how to survive outside the military.


    His expression grew tense as a flood of thoughts raced through his mind.


    Meanwhile, Minna felt an unexpected rush of gratitude at Kenny¡¯s simple question. Her thoughts drifted back to all the effort she had poured into winning Ethan¡¯s affection, only to be met with nothing but ice-cold indifference. The heartbreak had eaten away at her, pushing her into a downward spiral of self-doubt.


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 Chapter 730

    ?Chapter 730:


    No matter how much Elsa tried to cheer her up, she couldn¡¯t shake the heavy weight of failure.


    However, Kenny had been the one source of warmth in her lifetely. She thought back to the first time she was supposed to meet Ethan for their blind date, only for him to leave her waiting all day without showing up.


    In ast-ditch effort, she had gone to his workce just to catch a glimpse of him, and that was when she had been utterly swept away by him. It had been love at first sight.


    When Elsa set up a meeting with Brenna just to provoke her, she had brought Kenny along to pretend to be Ethan. Kenny and Minna had held hands to put on an act at that time.


    That was the first time Minna had felt something close to warmth from a man. Kenny wasn¡¯t the man who had stolen her heart at first sight, but his resemnce to Ethan was uncanny. And back then, she had thought he was Ethan for a second.


    On another asion, Elsa had once again used Kenny as a tool to get under Brenna¡¯s skin, this time by having him and Minna wear matching rings. When Kenny had ced the ring on her finger, Minna had briefly allowed herself to believe she was truly engaged to Ethan.


    Now, as she reflected on these things, she realized that every small pocket of warmth she had foundtely hade from Kenny.


    ¡°I¡¯m okay,¡± Minna replied, though the tears slipping down her face told a different story.


    Kenny looked at her in silence, torn between the absurdity of his thoughts and the impossibility of saying them aloud. How could he possibly suggest turning their fake rtionship into something real now?


    The idea was absurd, and he couldn¡¯t bring himself to voice it.


    Just then, his phone rang. It was his father calling.


    ¡°Dad.¡± Kenny quickly answered the call, his voice tight with tension. His heart immediately sank. Emmett was away on a business trip, and a call from him now could only mean one thing¡ªhe had found out everything.


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    The confirmation came swiftly. Emmett¡¯s voice exploded through the receiver, sharp and unforgiving. ¡°How could you have done something so stupid?¡± Emmett had no idea that Kenny had twice pretended to be Ethan in order to deceive Brenna before. The entire n had been orchestrated by Elsa without his knowledge.


    ¡°You know how Mom is, Dad. When she makes up her mind, everyone has to fall in line. If not, she will cause a scene,¡± Kenny exined.


    Emmett¡¯s fury was unmistakable, his voice so loud that it made Kenny flinch. ¡°That doesn¡¯t give you the right to risk your entire future!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s already done, Dad. Isn¡¯t there anything you can do to help fix it?¡± Kenny asked in a low, desperate voice.


    ¡°I¡¯ll see what I can do, but don¡¯t get your hopes up,¡± Emmett replied, his voice heavy with resignation. ¡°This has reached the highest levels ofmand. Even if your grandfather steps in, it might not be enough to fix this. You should start preparing to leave the military. I still have a few contacts. Flying for amercial airline might be your only option, even if it feels like losing everything you¡¯ve built.¡±


    Emmett wasn¡¯t hopeful. He had found out about the matter through an internal report, and by then, the official orders had already been issued. Changing them was next to impossible.


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 Chapter 731

    ?Chapter 731:


    It was truly unfortunate. After all, Kenny was an outstanding pilot.


    Minna looked at Kenny, concern etched in her expression. ¡°What did your dad say?¡±


    Kenny gave a slow shake of his head. ¡°Not much to hold on to. Looks like I¡¯ll be flyingmercial jets from now on.¡±


    At that moment, a sleek ck car came to a stop at the foot of the steps. Elsa got out of the car, her expression a storm of anger and urgency as she strode toward them. ¡°Ethan won¡¯t withdraw theint?¡± she asked.


    Emmett emerged from the vehicle, d in a pristine military uniform that emphasized his imposing presence. His face bore a grave expression,ced with a hint of anger.


    The precise tailoring of his attire and the insignia on his shoulder immediately demanded deference from the four receptionists at the Mitchell Group¡¯s reception desk. Though they were familiar with Elsa and Minna, and had recently encountered Kenny, they had never met Emmett and were unaware of his identity.


    Two male receptionists approached Emmett with cautious respect, their voices polite yet inquisitive. ¡°Good afternoon, sir. May we have your name and the reason for your visit?¡±


    They spected that this formidable officer might be Elsa¡¯s husband and Ethan¡¯s father, but neither ventured to presume, wary of a potential misstep. Emmett¡¯s reply was sharp and cold, his tone dripping with superiority. ¡°You don¡¯t have the right to ask my identity.¡±


    Most guests at the Mitchell Group showed respect toward the reception staff, including billionaires who arrived to meet Ethan. This was due to a straightforward truth¡ªEthan, as the wealthiest man in the world, overshadowed all others in stature and influence.


    The two male receptionists tensed at Emmett¡¯s words, their faces clouding with displeasure. They rarely encountered such arrogance. Despite the military garb, they stood firm, blocking Emmett¡¯s path.


    Behind them, the two female receptionists murmured, specting on Emmett¡¯s identity. One quickly dialed Neville.


    ¡°Sir, we must ask for your identification,¡± one of the male receptionists stated resolutely. ¡°Without it or a scheduled appointment, we cannot permit entry.¡± Earlier, they had made the mistake of allowing Kenny to bypass protocol, and now, despite Emmett¡¯s military uniform, they were determined not to repeat it.


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    Emmett¡¯s frustration deepened, but conscious of the decorum his uniform demanded, he restrained himself from pushing through forcibly. Grudgingly, he said, ¡°I¡¯m Ethan Mitchell¡¯s father. I¡¯m here to see him.¡±


    Elsa stepped forward, snapping at the two receptionists, ¡°How dare you stop the CEO¡¯s father from entering? Step aside!¡±


    The two male receptionists had no choice but to step aside, watching as the group of four entered the elevator.


    One male receptionist nced at his female colleague. ¡°Did you inform the secretary¡¯s office of this?¡±


    She nodded. ¡°I just called Neville.¡±


    On the top floor, Neville set down the phone and hurried into Ethan¡¯s office, his face etched with urgency. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, your parents, Kenny, and Minna are on their way up. They¡¯ll be here soon.¡±


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 Chapter 732

    ?Chapter 732:


    Ethan¡¯s expression grew icy. He nced at Brenna, gently withdrawing his arm from her hold. ¡°My injury¡¯s fine; it was treatedst night. You should go now. I¡¯ll handle the four of them.¡±


    Brenna was reluctant to leave Ethan to confront them alone. Feeling ountable for the situation, she believed she should stay here with him.


    ¡°No, I¡¯ll stay,¡± she said.


    Using his uninjured hand, Ethan guided Brenna toward the private elevator he frequently used.


    ¡°This is a family issue,¡± he said. ¡°Your involvement will onlyplicate matters. I¡¯ve got this. Go.¡± He gently pushed her inside the elevator.


    As the doors slid shut, the adjacent elevator opened, revealing Emmett, Elsa, Kenny, and Minna, their faces marked by evident anger.


    Neville, mindful of Ethan¡¯s injury, instinctively moved to protect him, but Ethan raised a hand to halt him, signaling that it wasn¡¯t necessary.


    Despite their anger, Emmett and Elsa valued propriety. With numerous staff in the secretary¡¯s office watching, they would not air private grievances publicly. Ethan knew them all too well. He turned toward his office. ¡°Let¡¯s discuss the matter inside.¡±


    The secretary¡¯s office buzzed with murmurs. Many were struck by Emmett¡¯s high military rank, feeling both admiration and curiosity, while others fretted for Ethan.


    Could Ethan withstand the pressure from both his mother, a renowned singer, and his father, a high-ranking military officer?


    Some attributed Ethan¡¯s achievements to his lineage. With parents like his, it was no wonder he was so sessful.


    Neville and Rex exchanged uncertain looks, debating whether to follow. ni, hovering close by, anxiously inquired, ¡°Should we bring them some coffee?¡±


    Rex hesitated and turned to Neville. ¡°Should we?¡±


    Neville, concerned about the potential for conflict, decided it was better to proceed cautiously. Still, he trusted Ethan to hold his own.


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    ¡°We should,¡± he said.


    ni, sensing the charged atmosphere, felt that it was unwise. ¡°I can prepare the coffee, but you need to bring it inside.¡±


    Neville gave a curt nod. ¡°Prepare them.¡±


    ni rushed to the break room, returning in under five minutes with a tray holding four cups of coffee. She passed it to Neville, saying, ¡°You can deliver them. I¡¯m staying here.¡±


    Neville stood there briefly, thought for a moment, and then strode toward Ethan¡¯s office, tray steady in his grip.


    Emmett¡¯s phone rested quietly on the table, ying an audio recording¡ªEthan¡¯s measured voiceid out Kenny¡¯s wrongdoing for the authorities without a hint of emotion.


    After years inmand, Emmett had mastered the art ofposure. The stern exterior he showed earlier was just a mask. When it came to handling matters, he was patient.


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 Chapter 733

    ?Chapter 733:


    ¡°Was it you?¡± Emmett inquired, his voiceced with authority.


    Ethan didn¡¯t so much as blink. He had long grown used to his father¡¯s rigid authority and the way he spoke as though he were above everyone else. Meanwhile, Elsa simmered beside them, her anger practically radiating from her eyes. If Emmett hadn¡¯t stepped in, she would have already hit Ethan.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± Ethan replied, his voice calm, unfazed by Emmett¡¯smanding aura.


    ¡°Retract your report. Tell them it isn¡¯t true,¡± Emmettmanded, his tone crisp and clear.


    Ethan didn¡¯t budge. ¡°No. Falsely using a soldier would be a legal offense. Besides, the report includes everything¡ªsolid facts and firsthand evidence. It¡¯s not a false im.¡±


    Emmett¡¯s voice dipped into reproach. ¡°You¡¯re going to destroy him.¡±


    Ethan stayedposed, his expression unreadable. ¡°He crossed a line by interfering in my life first. I¡¯m only doing what I have to do to stop him.¡±


    Elsa couldn¡¯t hold back any longer. She shouted, her voice filled with fury, ¡°How can you say that? That wasn¡¯t his doing. I told him to do those things. This falls on me.¡±


    With a slow turn of his head, Ethan shot her a disinterested look. ¡°He¡¯s not some helpless kid. He¡¯s a grown man. If he can¡¯t think for himself and just does whatever you say, that¡¯s on him. A man who can¡¯t make his own choices doesn¡¯t deserve to be a soldier.¡±


    ¡°You better say that again, I dare you!¡± Kenny exploded, springing to his feet. He jabbed a finger at Ethan from across the wide coffee table, his anger ring.


    Ethan didn¡¯t even blink. ¡°dly. A man like you, who blindly obeys his mother, isn¡¯t fit to be a soldier. The moment you chose to meddle in my life because Mom told you to, you sealed your fate. You brought this upon yourself.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s your brother!¡± Elsa roared, her voice cracking from rage. Her whole body trembled as she red at Ethan.


    Emmett¡¯s brow creased at the outburst, but he didn¡¯t move to stop her.


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    ¡°Will you take it back or not?¡± he asked Ethan onest time.


    ¡°No,¡± Ethan answered tly.


    Emmett reclined in his seat. ¡°Alright. Then let¡¯s make a deal.¡±


    After Ethan took the leap and started his own business, the distance between him and Emmett grew. They still sat together at family dinners, but the conversations never went beyond polite exchanges. Though Emmett had begrudgingly epted Ethan¡¯s choice to leave the military path, he remained displeased.


    His ideal life revolved around service, duty, and loyalty to the country¡ªvalues he had hoped to pass on. But Ethan had never shown any interest in that kind of life.


    Even so, Emmett had quietly lent a hand to Ethan¡¯s business. He had used hiswork to steer investments and contracts in Ethan¡¯s direction, though he never spoke a word about it.


    Ethan had known this all along. In the early days of building hispany, everything had fallen into ce with surprising ease. Curious, he had turned to his grandfather for guidance. His grandfather had helped where he could and told him that his father had been helping him in secret.


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 Chapter 734

    ?Chapter 734:


    ¡°Oh? So what kind of deal are you talking about? What do you think I owe you?¡± The memory of Emmett¡¯s help resurfaced in Ethan¡¯s mind. Was Emmett seriously about to use that as leverage?


    Ethan¡¯s gaze sharpened. If Emmett truly intended to use that as a bargaining chip, their father-son rtionship would be over.


    Emmett cleared his throat and said, ¡°Back when youunched yourpany, I helped you. I used my contacts to line up investments and get you your first few contracts. Now it¡¯s time for you to repay me for that.¡±


    Ethan let out a short, humorlessugh. ¡°So you really want to use that to make a deal with me?¡±


    Deep down, Ethan felt hurt. He had suffered countless hardships at the hands of his parents for not joining the military. Had they really forgotten how much they had put him through?


    Kenny had always known how to stay in their parents¡¯ good graces. He followed instructions, yed the obedient son, and lived a life that seemed to flow without resistance. Whenever trouble came his way, their parents would step in to help him. Ethan believed Kenny had received more care and love from their parents than he ever did.


    For as long as he could remember, Ethan had felt the weight of that imbnce. So when he discovered, through his grandfather, that Emmett had quietly supported¡ª


    His business from behind the scenes, he had been genuinely moved. But now? Emmett was using that help as a bargaining chip for Kenny. Ethan felt deeply disappointed.


    ¡°If that¡¯s how it is, then our rtionship as father and son ends now, Mr. Mitchell,¡± Ethan said, his voice cold.


    Emmett looked at Ethan, his expression stiff with anger. Beneath the surface, though, he felt sad.


    ¡°What kind of nonsense is that?¡± Elsa snapped, furious. ¡°Would you really go so far as to cut your father offpletely?¡±


    Elsa was truly furious. Memories flooded her mind, and tears began to fall as she leaned back against the sofa, overwhelmed with emotion.


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    Emmett nced her way. He plucked a tissue from the box and passed it to her. ¡°You know the kind of son we raised. Don¡¯t cry.¡±


    Choking on sobs, Elsa managed to speak despite the ache in her chest. ¡°He¡¯s been difficult from the start¡ªnothing like Kenny, who always listened to us. How many times has he driven me to anger? Since he was a boy, we¡¯ve been concerned for him. Why is he still like this now?¡±


    Ethan didn¡¯t flinch at her crying. He had caused those tears before¡ªwhen he was young, when he rejected the military for business. Her sorrow had never once swayed his decisions.


    Kenny watched the indifference in Ethan¡¯s expression and eximed, ¡°How many times have you made Mom cry? You don¡¯t even pretend to care about her. She¡¯s crying because of you, and you just sit there so calmly. Everything Mom and Dad have given you¡ªtheir love, their effort¡ªhas been wasted. I don¡¯t even know how someone like you managed to love Brenna. I think you don¡¯t even have a heart!¡±


    Ethan met his brother¡¯s re with a steady, unimpressed stare. ¡°You¡¯ve always been obedient, doing whatever Mom and Dad told you. And what did you get in return? You even have to give up your flying career now. What else can you do besides being obedient? You don¡¯t know how to make your own decisions!¡± His brow arched, voice cool. ¡°You think being the obedient one makes you superior? Then keep ying the good son and stay out of my business. I¡¯ve warned you before¡ªif you meddle in my life again, I won¡¯t hold back.¡±


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 Chapter 735

    ?Chapter 735:


    Kenny was stunned by Ethan¡¯s words. No one had ever spoken to him like this before. He had always believed he was sessful and respected.


    His eyes narrowed as he stared at Ethan, hurt flickering beneath the surface. ¡°Is that really what you think of me? You look down on me?¡±


    Just then, Neville entered quietly, setting down the coffee without a word. His eyes briefly scanned the room¡ªEthan was stillposed, while the others had already looked defeated. With a silent sigh of relief, he left the room.


    Kenny said with sarcasm, ¡°Right, you¡¯re ruthless to everyone; why would I expect you to spare me?¡±


    Though part of him recognized the truth in Ethan¡¯s words, he pushed the thought away, clinging to his sense of righteousness. ¡°You trample over others¡¯ feelings and act like your own family are your enemies. I could never be that cold. Mom and Dad gave me everything. The least I can do is repay them by being a dutiful son.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re free to repay them however you choose, but keep me out of it. Don¡¯t interfere in my affairs. Kenny, this is only the start. If you continue to do this, I won¡¯t go easy on you,¡± Ethan said.


    Kenny let out a snort. ¡°I don¡¯t recognize you as my brother anymore. From now on, your life is none of my concern!¡±


    Minna watched them in stunned silence. For the first time, she saw Ethan clearly¡ªa man no one could manipte. The illusion she¡¯d clung to shattered, and she realized how naive she¡¯d been, believing she could win Ethan over through Elsa.


    She realized she had been nothing more than Elsa¡¯s pawn, used to control Ethan.


    rity hit her at once, yet as she looked at Ethan¡ªso remarkable¡ªshe couldn¡¯t let go of himpletely, clinging to thest fragile thread of hope.


    Even if marrying Ethan was out of the question, just being able to see him every day was enough for her.


    Ethan shifted his focus to Emmett. ¡°What kind of deal are you trying to strike with me?¡±


    That cold indifference in his expression unsettled Emmett, stirring both difort and a sh of anger in him.


    Ethan¡¯s heart seemed carved from stone. Elsa¡¯s tears meant nothing to him.


    ¡°We won¡¯t interfere with your life anymore. Who you choose to love or marry¡ªthat¡¯s your business. Just drop the report,¡± Emmett said.


    Ethan shrugged. ¡°I can drop it. But do you think the military will just ignore the matter? Even if I do that, Kenny won¡¯t walk away unscathed.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not your concern. At least he won¡¯t be expelled.¡± Emmett seethed with frustration as he gave Elsa¡¯s hand a firm pat. ¡°I warned you not to interfere so much. He¡¯s not a boy anymore; he won¡¯t just listen to you. Even when he was a child, he was defiant, choosing punishment over joining the army. He has grown up now; of course, he won¡¯t just do as you say.¡±


    Elsa felt defeated. The truth had finally settled in: she couldn¡¯t control Ethan.


    Kenny stared at Ethan¡¯s unyielding expression, resentment rising in his chest. ¡°I never imagined you¡¯d turn out like this, making Mom and Dad upset over something so small.¡±


    He locked eyes with Ethan, his re unwavering. ¡°I don¡¯t want a brother as cold as you. Don¡¯t speak to me like we¡¯re family from now on. And you don¡¯t deserve to be Mom¡¯s son, either.¡±


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 Chapter 736

    ?Chapter 736:


    ¡°So you¡¯re saying we should sever all family ties?¡± Ethan asked.


    Jordy lookedpletely at home, stretched out on the leather sofa in Brenna¡¯s office. ¡°Not bad. You¡¯ve really upgraded. What¡¯s the deal? Mr. Mitchell even let you move your studio into his main building.¡±


    Brenna couldn¡¯t stand his smug tone or the casual way he slouched. She didn¡¯t even try to hide her irritation. ¡°Cut to the chase. If you have something to say, say it now.¡±


    Lorna entered with a cup of coffee, quietly cing it in front of Jordy before turning to stand to the side.


    Jordy frowned, clearly displeased. ¡°What¡¯s she still doing here? Think I¡¯m going to cause trouble for you?¡±


    Lorna could already tell that Jordy was trouble, and there was no way she¡¯d leave Brenna alone with him. She rolled her eyes at him but said nothing.


    Brenna ignored Jordy¡¯s words. ¡°If you¡¯vee to talk business, then hurry up. I¡¯m busy.¡±


    Jordy gave a halfugh, shrugging as if he had all the time in the world. ¡°Let her stay if she wants. Doesn¡¯t bother me. You¡¯re my ex-girlfriend, and I figured we could have a real talk for once.¡±


    That caught Lorna off guard. She blinked at Jordy, stunned by the fact that Brenna used to date him. After all, he was nothingpared to Ethan. Brenna stiffened, not expecting Jordy to mention that. Her annoyance showed instantly. ¡°Will you get to the point or not?¡±


    Jordy stretched his arms along the backrest like he owned the ce. ¡°I heard Mr. Mitchell¡¯s mother isn¡¯t your biggest fan. Sooner orter, he will break up with you. If you¡¯re smart, you¡¯ll walk away from him first. You and I can get back together, you know. My mom will like you.¡±


    Brenna, still seated in her swivel chair, turned to face him, her gaze cool and sharp. ¡°I thought you were interested in Isabe. Didn¡¯t you mock me for not being a real daughter of the Barrett family before? Now that I¡¯m a member of the Harper family, you want to crawl back to me? Give me a break.¡±


    Jordy let out an awkwardugh. ¡°Come on, Brenna, don¡¯t be like that. I still have feelings for you. I¡¯m only looking out for you. Think about it. Mr. Mitchell¡¯s mother¡­¡±


    ¡°Already doesn¡¯t ept you. Are you really going to stay by his side forever, unable to marry him?¡±


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    Brenna said, ¡°Even if I leave Ethan, I can find someone way better than you easily. What makes you think that I would want to get back together with you?¡±


    Lorna couldn¡¯t help but speak up, finding Jordy¡¯s arrogance amusing. ¡°Brenna is smart, sessful, and stunning. You honestly believe she¡¯d settle for someone like you?¡±


    Jordy¡¯s face darkened, his pride clearly wounded. ¡°And who asked for your opinion? You¡¯re just a secretary. Know your ce and keep your mouth shut. Get out.¡±


    Completely unbothered, Lorna rolled her eyes again and didn¡¯t move. ¡°This isn¡¯t yourpany. You don¡¯t get to boss me around here.¡±


    Brenna said to Jordy calmly, ¡°I thought you came here for business. If you don¡¯t talk about it now, you should leave. I don¡¯t have time for this.¡±


    Though clearly irritated by Lorna¡¯s presence, Jordy pushed past it and got to the point. ¡°I am here to talk about the deal Denis mentioned before. He bumped the price to fifty million now. You in or not? Just be direct, yes or no. If you¡¯re out, we¡¯ll find someone else. Plenty of people would want this chance, you know.¡±


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 Chapter 737

    ?Chapter 737:


    ¡°I figured that¡¯s what this is about. My terms haven¡¯t changed. I want fifty percent of what Denis will get, not a cent less. We have no deal.¡± Brenna shot a nce at Lorna after saying that.


    Catching her cue, Lorna stepped forward. ¡°Mr. Barton, I¡¯ll have to ask you to leave now.¡±


    Jordy stood up, his expression sour. ¡°Really, Brenna? I¡¯m your ex-boyfriend. You¡¯re not even going to walk me out? And your asking price is too high. No one¡¯s going to pay that. Be reasonable.¡±


    ¡°Get lost.¡±


    A knock sounded just as the words left Brenna¡¯s mouth.


    Brenna nced toward the doorway just as Ethan pushed the door open and stepped inside, his face cold. With one hand tucked casually into his pocket, he walked over and locked eyes with Jordy. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    Jordy stayed unfazed. In his mind, Ethan was with someone he¡¯d already tossed aside.


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell, you can¡¯t even marry Brenna, and yet you refuse to leave her. That¡¯s just pathetic,¡± Jordy said, smirking.


    Jordy pointed a finger in Brenna¡¯s direction. ¡°Let her go already. There are plenty of people who¡¯d be happy to be with her.¡±


    Ethan didn¡¯t say a word; his fist did the talking. It mmed into Jordy¡¯s face without warning.


    Jordy stumbled, holding his cheek. ¡°What the hell? Did I say anything wrong? Everyone has seen the footage of your mom publicly rejecting your rtionship with Brenna. You¡¯re engaged to someone else and still refusing to leave Brenna? How shameless!¡±


    Ethan¡¯s re only hardened. ¡°That is none of your business!¡± he snapped, thennded a swift kick on Jordy.


    Barely managing to stay upright, Jordy noticed the killing intent in Ethan¡¯s eyes and quickly turned to leave. ¡°You can act arrogant all you want, but you won¡¯t be able to marry Brenna. So stop wasting her time¡­¡±


    Brenna didn¡¯t even spare Jordy a nce. Her attention stayed on Ethan. ¡°Did you take care of the matter?¡±


    g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s offers tales worth telling


    Ethan calmly nodded. ¡°My parents won¡¯t bother us again. No more interference.¡± Just as he finished speaking, his phone rang. He answered the call, and Kenny¡¯s frantic voice burst through. ¡°Fantastic. You actually made Mom pass out from rage!¡±


    Ethan patiently endured Kenny¡¯s tirade until he finally stopped. Then, he asked calmly, ¡°Are you finished?¡± With that, he ended the call.


    Watching Ethan¡¯s unflustered expression, Brenna sensed he was in a good mood. Curiosity overcame her, and she asked, ¡°What exactly happened with your parents? I¡¯ve always had the impression your mother isn¡¯t exactly easy to handle.¡±


    With a quiet chuckle, Ethan eased into the spot next to her on the sofa. ¡°You might see her as irritating, but from my perspective, her antics are pretty normal. When I was young, we shed constantly. Twenty years of experience has made me a pro at dealing with her. She¡¯s obsessed with controlling every aspect of every family member¡¯s life. My brother listens to every word she says without question, bing nothing more than her puppet. Even when she made him pretend to be me to deceive you, heplied, despite it shing badly with his principles.¡±


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 Chapter 738

    ?Chapter 738:


    Brenna raised her eyebrows, genuinely surprised. ¡°Your brother seemed like a principled soldier to me; I didn¡¯t peg him as someone who¡¯d bend so easily to his mother¡¯s demands.¡±


    Laughing gently, she couldn¡¯t help teasing Ethan, ¡°I always imagined someone like you¡ªborn into wealth, raised by influential parents¡ªwould¡¯ve been pampered in your family. It never crossed my mind you¡¯d spent your whole life battling your mother¡¯s controlling ways. You¡¯re quite something.¡±


    Even Ethan had to admit his life was a mess of absurd drama. ¡°I absolutely hate it when people try to dictate my decisions or force me onto a path I don¡¯t want to choose. So, when my mother tried meddling in our rtionship, I stood my ground. I would rather risk destroying my older brother¡¯s carefully nned future than sacrifice my own happiness.¡±


    He carefully recounted to Brenna exactly how the negotiation with his parents earlier had unfolded, closely watching her reaction, unsure if she¡¯d think he had been too harsh.


    Fortunately, Brenna was a rational person; otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t have gone against the Barrett family.


    ¡°You did the right thing. I¡¯m always on your side,¡± she said.


    Warmth bloomed in Ethan¡¯s chest at her unwavering support. Besides his grandmother, Brenna was the only one who truly understood him.


    They chatted for a while about their childhoods before Brenna shifted the conversation. ¡°Have you considered what you¡¯ll do moving forward? Can your rtionship with your parents really stay strained like this forever?¡±


    ¡°If they learn their lesson and stop interfering in my life, I¡¯m open to peaceful interaction. But I won¡¯t get too close to them, or they might think I¡¯ve forgiven their behavior.¡±


    Meanwhile, outside Brenna¡¯s office, Greta found herself unable to concentrate, constantly ncing toward the office. Ethan had spent a considerable amount of time in there already; she needed to seize this opportunity to catch his eye. She nced at Lorna, who was sitting and ying with her phone, not even considering bringing coffee to Ethan and Brenna.


    Greta made her way into the break room without Lorna noticing. She prepared some coffee and poked around for fruit. She came across a few tangerines, a dragon fruit, and a cantaloupe tucked in the corner.


    Efficiently, she peeled, cut, and neatly arranged them into a tter. Then, she brought the coffee and fruit to Brenna¡¯s office. Pausing at the doorway, she deliberately adjusted her blouse, undoing a button and carefully checking to ensure it was revealing enough.


    Satisfied, she knocked and called out, ¡°Brenna.¡± Then, she entered the office.


    Inside, Ethan¡¯s hand enveloped Brenna¡¯sfortably, her head resting against him as theyughed together. Brenna looked happier and more rxed than Greta had ever seen.


    When Greta entered, Brenna and Ethan naturally separated. Brenna assumed it was Lorna bringing something in, or perhaps Tommy or Joeing in to have her sign some documents.


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 Chapter 739

    ?Chapter 739:


    Seeing Greta walk in instead surprised her slightly, but she didn¡¯t let it show.


    Ethan¡¯s expression instantly cooled, returning to its usual detached calm. He rarely showed his rxed side to outsiders, yet he remained close to Brenna and only adjusted his tone slightly, saying, ¡°I have a flight this afternoon to board, and I¡¯ll return Friday. Let¡¯s visit my grandmother on Saturday. I promised to see her, and I haven¡¯t yet done that. She might be upset. I¡¯m heading to Valport, and the brand Fakale just released a limited-edition fragrance there. Want me to bring you back a bottle?¡±


    Without missing a beat, Brenna nodded. ¡°Yes. I¡¯d like that.¡±


    Greta carefully set down the coffee cups and fruit tter, smiling warmly. ¡°Brenna, I wasn¡¯t sure what Mr. Mitchell preferred, so I prepared both atte and an iced Americano.¡±


    Leaning slightly, she nudged the fruit tter forward, hoping the gesture might draw Ethan¡¯s attention. She lingered, hoping he¡¯d look at her.


    After a few awkward seconds, she nced up and saw he was entirely absorbed by something on his phone, oblivious to her presence. Disappointment surged through her. This wasn¡¯t going as she¡¯d nned.


    Leaning closer, Brenna nced curiously at Ethan¡¯s screen, noticing a message from Jayceon, asking why Ethan hadn¡¯t visited himtely.


    Realizing neither Ethan nor Brenna intended to acknowledge her efforts, Greta felt frustration rising within her. She had made an effort to thoughtfully bring them coffee, yet neither had offered even a simple ¡°thank you¡± to her.


    She said, ¡°Brenna, does Mr. Mitchell prefer atte or an Americano? Should I add some sugar?¡±


    Just then, a gentle tap echoed at the door. Tommy stepped inside, clutching a report. He observed Greta positioned awkwardly opposite Brenna and Ethan. They clearly wanted her to leave.


    Yet, Greta showed no intention of leaving, lingering in hopes of prolonging her conversation with Ethan.


    Tommy strode toward her with purpose. ¡°Greta, why are you here? Your design has a w that needs fixing. Let¡¯s go.¡±


    At that moment, Ethan nced up, his tone icy. ¡°I don¡¯t want to drink coffee. You can get back to work.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not busy¡­¡± Greta murmured, reluctant to leave.


    Tommy, undeterred, approached her and said sternly, ¡°Didn¡¯t I just tell you? The client needs shorter mechanical arms for patients with small limb amputations. Your design with oversized arms is unqualified.¡±


    Only after this rebuke did Greta grudgingly trail Tommy out.


    At her desk, standing by her chair, Greta scrutinized her design and saw no errors. ¡°Tommy, my design is fine. What were you talking about just now?¡±


    Tommy¡¯s eyes flicked to Greta¡¯s revealing neckline. Though her build was unremarkable, he suspected she was intentionally vying for Ethan¡¯s attention by doing this. He didn¡¯t voice this thought, not wanting to argue with Greta over it, and figured it was unnecessary since he had already gotten her out of Brenna¡¯s office.


    Shifting his focus to the blueprints, he said, ¡°Make the arm span variable to fit different amputation lengths. That way, we won¡¯t need custom designs for every client.¡±


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 Chapter 740

    ?Chapter 740:


    While this was a valid suggestion, Greta remained displeased. If Tommy hadn¡¯t intervened, Ethan might have noticed her figure and perhaps even been charmed.


    After saying that, Tommy returned to his office and told Joe what had happened.


    It was unusual for both Brenna and Ethan to be at thepany at noon, so they headed to the cafeteria for lunch together.


    Though the Mitchell Group¡¯s employees worked at the headquarters, they rarely saw Ethan. In fact, most had never seen him in the cafeteria before. Ethan¡¯s presence with Brenna in the cafeteria sparked a buzz.


    Still, as the CEO of thepany, Ethan¡¯s presence in the cafeteria for lunch wasn¡¯t exactly shocking. After the initial surprise, the employees returned to their meals.


    Since thepany had thousands of employees, the cafeteria sprawled across three floors, offering a variety of cuisines and ample seating.


    Anticipating Ethan¡¯s presence at the cafeteria, Greta had deliberately left for lunch when Brenna left her office.


    As she stepped out of one elevator, Ethan emerged from another. She basked in the spotlight alongside Brenna and Ethan, feeling pleased.


    ¡°Brenna, what¡¯s your favorite food? This section has spicy dishes, and that one has sweeter options¡­¡± Greta deliberately positioned herself between Ethan and Brenna, trying to catch Ethan¡¯s attention.


    ¡°I¡¯ll choose my own,¡± Brenna replied, unruffled by Greta¡¯s maneuvers. She trusted Ethanpletely. If he were swayed so easily by other women, his beautiful secretaries would have won him over long ago.


    Brenna quickly chose some dishes, and Greta followed suit, selecting her own as well.


    ¡°Brenna, mind if I sit with you? I have some design queries to discuss,¡± Greta said, seemingly indicating she wasn¡¯t intentionally being a third wheel.


    ¡°I don¡¯t mind; let¡¯s eat together,¡± Brenna responded, unbothered by Greta¡¯s presence during her time with Ethan. She knew that whatever Greta intended to do, she would do it in front of everyone, so she wouldn¡¯t do anything reckless. Besides, her conversation with Ethan was nothing Greta couldn¡¯t hear.


    Ethan had more dishes on his tray, specifically choosing a te of ravioli. He and Brenna sat across from one another, sharing the dishes they had chosen. Greta, with a bright smile, set her food alongside theirs and asked, ¡°Mind if we all share, Mr. Mitchell?¡±


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    Ethan nced at Brenna, who appeared unbothered by Greta, and offered a casual nod. Still, he avoided touching the dishes Greta had brought.


    Greta, meanwhile, subtly mimicked Ethan¡¯s choices, sampling the same dishes he tasted, though she was careful not to overdo it, wary of drawing attention.


    ¡°Brenna, you should try the ravioli; they¡¯re really tasty,¡± Greta suggested, sliding a piece onto Brenna¡¯s te. Ethan had picked the ravioli, a dish tied to fond memories of his grandmother¡¯s cooking from childhood.


    ¡°Okay,¡± Brenna responded, slightly ufortable but choosing not toment on it.


    After Greta touched the ravioli, Ethan stopped eating it.


    As Greta reached for another dish Ethan had chosen, he said sharply, ¡°Stick to your own dishes. I don¡¯t like sharing food with others.¡±


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 Chapter 741

    ?Chapter 741:


    Surveying the dishes Greta had touched, Ethan found his appetite gone.


    He rose and headed back to the serving line for a tray of untouched dishes.


    He then said to Brenna, ¡°Brenna,e here and join me.¡±


    On the surface, the employees appeared absorbed in their lunches and lighthearted chatter, giving off the impression that they weren¡¯t paying attention to Ethan and Brenna. But in reality, Ethan¡¯s rare appearance in the cafeteria, and with his girlfriend no less, was the kind of thing that didn¡¯t go unnoticed.


    Throughout the history of thepany, sightings of Ethan in the staff dining area had been few and far between. For most junior and mid-level employees, he was a distant figure they could glimpse only once or twice a year. So when Ethan changed tables with Brenna, everyone noticed.


    At her table, Greta couldn¡¯t shake the sensation that many people were staring at her, mocking her, and gossiping about her.


    Fingers clenched around her fork, she stared down at the spread of twelve dishes in front of her, unsure of what to do.


    Getting up to join Ethan and Brenna might earn her a public dismissal from Ethan. Staying behind could mean admitting she was disliked by him.


    She really didn¡¯t know what to do now.


    In the end, she stayed put, thinking it was better than risking being rejected by Ethan publicly.


    Though many of her colleagues, especially those from engineering, were familiar with her, no one made the move to sit with her.


    As Greta scanned the cafeteria with a lowered gaze, she took a small breath of relief. She noticed that no one seemed to care about what she was doing, all focused on their meals.


    After work, Brenna received a call from Jordy.


    By seven in the evening, she was seated in a private dining room with a circr tablerge enough for twenty.


    Despite the space, only four people had gathered: Brenna, Jordy, Denis, and Isabe. The table was adorned withvish dishes, each portion small but beautifully presented.


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    Leaning back in her seat slightly, Brenna arched a brow with satisfaction. ¡°The food looks good. So¡­ Does this mean you¡¯ve agreed to my terms?¡±


    Denis sat across from her, his expression tight with frustration. For days, he¡¯d been exhausting every possible lead, even hiring local tech specialists in an attempt to breach Jade¡¯s financial system. Nothing had worked. The funds remained locked.


    Now, he was forced to consider Brenna¡¯s terms.


    The idea of handing over half the money grated on Denis and hispanions, but they knew that once the matter was settled, they could find ways to control how much Brenna actually received.


    With a stiff tone, Denis finally spoke. ¡°We¡¯ve agreed to your conditions, Miss Harper. Let¡¯s eat.¡±


    He exchanged a knowing nce with Jordy. They had arranged for this meal and put on an act to make Brenna lower her guard and believe they genuinely agreed to give her half the money.


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 Chapter 742

    ?Chapter 742:


    ¡°Alright,¡± Brenna said, starting to eat while letting her gaze drift toward Isabe. ¡°So¡­ Is your father still causing problems for you?¡±


    Isabe scoffed. ¡°Nope. The security in our residential area has kept him out. He can¡¯t even get past the front gate.¡±


    Just mentioning Alec stirred anger in her.


    She continued, ¡°When you were still with the Barrett family, what was he like? Because when I first returned to the Barrett family, he had at least some dignity. Now he¡¯s just¡­ shameless.¡±


    That made Brenna¡¯s brows lift with interest. ¡°Oh, he was already a handful back then. Used to rip apart every design I submitted, saying the parts weren¡¯t shy enough to make him real money. Every single night, he¡¯d badger me for more drafts. If hispany wasn¡¯t getting orders, it was my fault. If profit margins dipped, he med the materials I chose. No matter what I did, it was never good enough for him.¡±


    Isabe said, ¡°So he¡¯s always been so unbearable. I thought the bankruptcy flipped a switch in him. Honestly, he deserves his current predicament. It¡¯s karma, if you ask me.¡±


    After a pause, she continued, ¡°You won¡¯t even believe what he did after going bankrupt. The first thing he did was drag us to his mistress¡¯ ce, hoping she¡¯d take us in. To secure shelter and food, he divorced my mother without a shred of hesitation. Then, he threw her, my brother, and me out onto the street. How could he have done something like that?¡±


    She narrowed her eyes. ¡°Later, I met Denis, and life improved for me, my brother, and my mother. Meanwhile, he¡¯s been stuck in the mud. I heard he can¡¯t even cover tutoring fees for his youngest son. So what does he do? Comes knocking on our door, begging for money, like it¡¯s our responsibility to support him. No wonder when he went crawling to you after everything fell apart, you mmed the door in his face.¡±


    A softugh slipped from Brenna. ¡°Not surprising at all. He¡¯s got bottomless ambition and zero skill to back it up.¡±


    Isabe nodded. ¡°Exactly. What did I do to end up with a father like that?¡±


    Brenna nced at Isabe, knowing that Alec wasn¡¯t the only problem; his son and his wife were no better than him. The Barrett family was full of heartless individuals.


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    As soon as dinner wrapped up, the real reason everyone had gathered finally came to the surface.


    To Denis and Jordy, Brenna represented theirst chance at salvaging the situation; they had pinned all their hopes on her.


    But Isabe had her doubts. From where she stood, Denis was being far too deferential to someone who, in her opinion, was never up for the task to begin with. She had always believed Brenna¡¯s refusal of the 13 million offer had less to do with the money and more to do with her inability to deliver.


    Pulling aptop from his bag, Denis ced it in front of Brenna and turned it on. He then leaned forward, his voice clipped, and his tone edged with entitlement. ¡°You can start now, Miss Harper. I hope your reputation matches the praise I¡¯ve heard about you. If you blow this, don¡¯t expect to get a dime from us.¡±


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 Chapter 743

    ?Chapter 743:


    At a single nce, Brenna identified the interface. It was password-gated, encrypted, and fortified with global-grade firewalls designed to keep even the best hackers out.


    She was a bit surprised that Jade and Edward would ce such significance on their financial security in Vand, using such advanced anti-hacking measures.


    ¡°This won¡¯t be a quick fix,¡± Brenna said calmly, grabbing the mouse and diving into the system with swift, practiced movements. Within seconds, she locked onto its vulnerability.


    Clicking her way throughyers of security, she worked with quiet focus. Meanwhile, Denis hovered nearby, clueless about her process and growing visibly agitated. ¡°Can you move a little faster? Are you even capable of handling this?¡±


    Not far away, Jordy observed Brenna without a word. Despite having worked with Brenna for over a year before, he had no idea she was a skilled hacker, and frankly, he didn¡¯t believe it.


    Of all those present, Isabe remained the most skeptical of Brenna. ¡°Why is this taking so long?¡± she snapped. ¡°Is this just your way of stalling because you can¡¯t actually crack it?¡±


    A sneer curved her lips as she crossed her arms. ¡°You keep saying it takes time; what¡¯s next? Stringing us along for days until we pay you up front?¡±


    With a sharp re, Brenna turned toward Isabe. ¡°Shut up.¡±


    Isabe rolled her eyes but finally fell silent.


    Without further dy, Brenna calmly reached into her bag and pulled out her ownptop, setting it down on the table with purpose.


    But Denis quickly moved in, pressing her lid closed before she could open it. ¡°Use mine,¡± he said firmly. ¡°Myptop is top-tier. It should be more than enough for this.¡±


    He was worried Brenna might pull some tricks on him using her ownptop.


    Brushing his hand aside without blinking, Brenna replied coolly, ¡°Yours isn¡¯tpatible with what I need. Mine¡¯s custom-made, and it has tools yours doesn¡¯t.¡±


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    As Brenna turned on herptop, Denis finally got a good look at it. Herptop was on the bulky side, with an oversized disy and a heavy build. He grumbled, ¡°If you tamper with anything, I won¡¯t let you off easily.¡±


    Barely acknowledging his words, Brenna shot him a t look before her hands began to fly across the keyboard.


    Meanwhile, flickers danced across the homepage of the financial software on Denis¡¯ptop¡ªit sputtered, blinked, and wavered as if under pressure. The shift didn¡¯t go unnoticed.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll admit it¡ªyou¡¯ve got some skills,¡± Denis said, watching the server begin to strain.


    Isabe didn¡¯t understand what this meant. To her, if the screen glitched, someone was breaking through. That was the extent of her technical insight. Jordy couldn¡¯t help but be impressed by Brenna. ¡°Didn¡¯t expect that. Not bad.¡± Yet minutes ticked by, and despite the active code scrolling across Brenna¡¯sptop screen, the disruption on Denis¡¯ptop began to fade. Everything returned to normal.


    Unfazed, Brenna kept her fingers moving across the keyboard with ease, her expression calm and unbothered, as though everything was unfolding exactly as nned.


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 Chapter 744

    ?Chapter 744:


    Denis grew more restless. ¡°Why hasn¡¯t anything changed yet? Can you really handle this? Or were those so-calledpany cases just inted PR?¡± Rather than dignify him with a reply, Brenna stayed focused on the screen.


    Meanwhile, Isabe lost her patience and nudged Brenna. ¡°Can you at least say something? Do you even know what you¡¯re doing? In case you¡¯ve forgotten, no results mean no payment.¡±


    Sitting a bit further back, Jordy kept a cooler head. Unlike Denis, he hadn¡¯t poured his entire investment into this one gamble; he didn¡¯t have much to lose if Brenna failed.


    ¡°No need to panic yet,¡± Jordy said, stretching an arm to hold Denis and Isabe in ce. ¡°Let¡¯s just wait. We haven¡¯t paid her anything anyway.¡±


    Still fuming, Denis let out a snort. ¡°If she can¡¯t do it, whye here at all?¡±


    Jordy said, ¡°Look, I did a bit of digging. Her past clients swear by her. If she can¡¯t break it, we don¡¯t have to pay her.¡±


    With frustration simmering, Denis shot a re at Brenna. ¡°She¡¯s wasting my time.¡±


    Impatience creeping into her voice, Isabe snapped, ¡°Brenna, how long is this going to take? I¡¯m not seeing anything that proves you¡¯re better than the other hackers we¡¯ve hired. We¡¯ve hired experts before, some of the best in the world, and none of them could break this thing. It seems you¡¯re no different.¡±


    To gain Brenna¡¯s approval, Jordy vouched for her skills. He then pulled Denis and Isabe to sit down, offering Denis a cigarette, and the group started chatting.


    Still, Denis kept ncing at the screen every few minutes. After a while, Isabe went to stand behind Brenna, watching closely.


    After over twenty minutes, Isabe let out a gleeful cry. ¡°It¡¯s unlocked!¡± Jordy and Denis hurried over, eyes wide, fixated on the now-essible Ward Group financial portal glowing on the monitor, their faces lighting up with grins.


    ¡°Impressive. You actually cracked it,¡± Denis said to Brenna, scanning the homepage¡¯s options, itching to uncover the Ward Group¡¯s wealth.


    ¡°Click that one! I want to see their total funds!¡± Denis urged, pointing at the wealth summary tab. He grabbed the mouse himself, clicking the button, but the page that loaded disyed only asterisks, obscuring the figures.


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    Brenna¡¯s fingers flew across the keyboard with striking precision as she typed lines of code. She shot Denis a look. ¡°I¡¯ve only broken through the first securityyer. essing the actual funds requires cracking several more barriers. It¡¯s not that simple.¡±


    Denis nodded. ¡°I get it; the experts I hired before warned me it would be tough. But you¡¯re already leagues ahead of them. They couldn¡¯t even reach the homepage.¡±


    Isabe rolled her eyes, scoffing. ¡°What good is this anyway? We still can¡¯t touch the money. Brenna, hurry up. You¡¯re not dying on purpose, right?¡±


    Jordy tugged Isabe aside. ¡°Let her work. Don¡¯t distract her.¡±


    Another thirty minutes passed before Brenna stopped, calmly turning off her ownptop. ¡°It¡¯s done. The new password is six sixes. You can take it from here.¡±


    Denis and Isabe could barely contain their excitement, broad smiles spreading across their faces. Isabe, especially, was ecstatic, already imagining a life of luxury with billions secured.


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 Chapter 745

    ?Chapter 745:


    ¡°Miss Harper, we owe you big time. You¡¯re incredibly talented. Sorry for doubting you earlier; don¡¯t hold it against me. I¡¯ll wire your payment soon,¡± Denis said. But in his mind, he had settled on thirteen million dors for Brenna, nothing more.


    He and hundreds of his men had toiled for this. Why should Brenna, with a few keystrokes, walk away with half of everything? Thirteen million was generous enough for her efforts.


    If Brenna demanded more, he would refuse her.


    The money was under his control, and he called the shots. Even if she held a de to his neck, he wouldn¡¯t budge.


    Brenna gave a curt nod. ¡°You handle the rest. I¡¯m out.¡±


    Denis and Isabe were shocked that Brenna didn¡¯t mention her cut.


    Denis, in particr, found it suspicious. He didn¡¯t buy that Brenna didn¡¯t care about money.


    Still, he said to Brenna, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I will pay you soon.¡±


    Brenna said nothing and walked out.


    Jordy, also puzzled, said, ¡°Why didn¡¯t she secure her share before leaving? Isn¡¯t she worried we will refuse to pay her?¡±


    Denis, after days of grueling work, was eager to withdraw the money.


    He sat at theptop, essed the main ount, and found over thirty billion dors¡ªfar beyond his expectations. His grin stretched wide, every fiber of his being buzzing with joy.


    ¡°Sweetheart, this is a lot! Give me a bigger cut, please,¡± Isabe purred, cozying up to Denis.


    ¡°No worries, sweetheart. You¡¯ve been giving me useful advice this whole time; how could I shortchange you?¡± Denis replied.


    Jordy, too, was thrilled at the massive sum, knowing his cut would be significant.


    ¡°Damn it! No wonder Brenna didn¡¯t ask for her cut!¡± Denis suddenly shouted, clicking through to the transfer records. His blood boiled as he spotted a recent transaction.


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    Brenna had siphoned off over thirteen billion dors.


    ¡°This is outrageous!¡± Denis roared, trembling with fury.


    Jordy was also stunned by this.


    He shared Denis¡¯ fury, believing Brenna deserved only a small fraction, not half. ¡°I¡¯m going to kill her!¡± Denis fumed.


    Isabe grabbed his arm to stop him. ¡°Don¡¯t. We¡¯ve still got plenty left. This money isn¡¯t exactly clean. Let¡¯s not mess with her.¡±


    Denis slumped into his chair, his anger festering with no release. ¡°She¡¯s too cunning! I knew something was off when she didn¡¯t bring up getting her cut.¡±


    Jordy, moreposed, nodded. ¡°Isabe¡¯s got a point. Brenna pulled off that transfer without us noticing. If we cross her now, what¡¯s stopping her from taking the rest from us?¡±


    Denis finally realized that Brenna was not only skilled but also ruthless.


    The weekend finally rolled in, and Ethan made his way back from Valport. He and Brenna had already agreed to visit his grandmother together, so his car reappeared at the Harper family gate once again.


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 Chapter 746

    ?Chapter 746:


    Thankfully, Shepard and Giselle had left to check in on Tessa at the estate. After losing Luther, Tessa had grown unwilling to leave the ce where she had shared so much of her life with him.


    Both Shepard and Ableson, along with their wives, had gone there to convince her to move in with one of them. They didn¡¯t want her staying alone so far away, worried that something would go wrong and they couldn¡¯t reach her in time.


    Brenna was heading downstairs when she bumped into Ernst.


    Since Ernst and Ethan had grown up side by side, Ernst had no objections to Ethan dating his sister.


    Watching Ernst about to head out on a Saturday, Brenna tilted her head and asked, ¡°Why are you still going to work on the weekend?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not working; I¡¯m going out with Lilith,¡± Ernst said.


    Brenna blinked and replied casually, ¡°Oh, you¡¯re still seeing her? I thought you broke up with her long ago.¡±


    A lowugh escaped Ernst. ¡°She¡¯s actually a great person. She¡¯s beautiful, grounded, and has a good sense of style. I¡¯ve already been to her ce twice, and her parents seem great, too.¡±


    ¡°If you¡¯re happy with her, that¡¯s all that matters. You can bring her home someday.¡± Brenna hadn¡¯t forgotten that Lilith was the daughter of her mother¡¯s longtime friend.


    Ernst nodded with a smile before making his way to the driver¡¯s side of Ethan¡¯s car, curious about how Ethan¡¯s recovery was going.


    Ethan stepped out of the car to talk to him. ¡°My injury is healing well. No more IVs. Just need to change the dressings now and then. So, are you getting engaged soon?¡±


    ¡°nning to before the year wraps up,¡± said Ernst with a nod. ¡°Congrats!¡±


    Brenna tucked the gifts she had brought into the back seat, then climbed into the passenger side.


    Ethan reached into the back seat and handed Brenna a perfume he had picked up in Valport, presented in an elegant box.


    For updates, visit ?¦Ál?ov??s.co?


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Brenna opened the box and found a golden ss bottle inside, its design both intricate and eye-catching. She gave the perfume a quick spritz, catching a scent that was subtle and elegant.


    Ethan smiled at her, then started the car and drove toward his grandmother¡¯s ce.


    During the drive, Ethan began telling Brenna more about his grandmother.


    ¡°My grandmother should be around eighty-seven now. Or maybe she¡¯s still eighty-six. Anyway, she¡¯s in pretty good health. She¡¯s always had a soft spot for me. Anytime I got in trouble or shed with my parents, I¡¯d run to her. She never hesitated to scold them for me. She¡¯s easygoing, and she neverins about food, always sticking to the simple stuff¡ªthings like oatmeal, pickles, and ravioli.¡±


    Brenna offered a warm smile. ¡°You mentioned that before, so I picked up some of the most popr ravioli from a ce nearby. I hope she¡¯ll enjoy it.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯ll definitely love it,¡± Ethan said. ¡°My grandmother only has two children¡ªmy uncle and my mom. She lives less than fifty meters from my uncle¡¯s house, and he¡¯s the one who usually looks after her. He¡¯s easy to get along with, so you don¡¯t need to worry about him. What concerns me more is his second daughter, Bess Navarro. She¡¯s really close with my mom.¡±


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 Chapter 747

    ?Chapter 747:


    Brenna gave a small nod, catching right away that Bess wasn¡¯t someone easy to deal with.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t bring anything for your uncle or his daughter,¡± she said.


    Ethan responded without hesitation, ¡°That¡¯s not a problem. You¡¯re there to visit my grandmother, not them.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s how I see it, too.¡± Brenna had only brought it up out of courtesy.


    Soon enough, they arrived at Ethan¡¯s grandmother¡¯s ce.


    Brenna gathered the bags she had brought and followed Ethan through the gate and into the courtyard, where she could already make out the sound of voicesing from inside.


    Right away, she could tell that Elsa and Minna were inside.


    Ethan stepped inside first and caught sight of several people gathered, which left him a little annoyed with himself for not checking ahead. Now, Brenna had to deal with people she disliked.


    Elsa had her hands in dough, while Minna and a girl with striking features were preparing vegetables for a meal. Kenny was sitting beside Belen, wearing a simple jacket.


    Brenna silently wondered why Kenny was here. If his military status had been restored, he should¡¯ve been back in the military by now. His presence hinted that he might not have escaped being dismissed after all.


    While Brenna was lost in thought, Kenny¡¯s eyes locked onto hers, ring with resentment.


    Ethan held Brenna¡¯s hand, quietly letting everyone in the room know she had his full support.


    Elsa had been ready to say something cutting but stopped herself. She had promised Ethan not to meddle in his life anymore. Still, she was displeased upon seeing Brenna and wore a dark expression.


    Ethan caught the look on Elsa¡¯s face and gave her a sharp nce in warning. It hadn¡¯t been long since the argument with his parents, but he still gave a stiff nod and greeted Elsa, though his tone was cold.


    Brenna also greeted Elsa.


    Find your adventure at g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s??§àm (uso de ¡°?¡± y ¡°§à¡± cir¨ªlica)


    Without lingering, Ethan stepped past Elsa and made his way to Belen with Brenna, his voice softening. ¡°Grandma, this is my girlfriend, Brenna.¡±


    Brenna ced the gifts she had brought on the nearby coffee table and smiled at Belen brightly. ¡°Hello, Mrs. Navarro!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re beautiful!¡± said Belen with a glowing smile as she reached out and pulled Brenna to sit beside her. ¡°Such a lovely girl. Let me take a good look at you. You¡¯re so stunning; my grandson looks in next to you!¡±


    Brenna felt confused. Ethan had already made their rtionship clear, and both Elsa and Emmett had explicitly promised not to meddle in his marriage. So why had Elsa brought Minna to the family gathering?


    What was the purpose of this? Was Elsa still scheming to go against Ethan¡¯s wishes?


    Brenna couldn¡¯t figure it out.


    She noticed Minna stealing nces at Kenny multiple times since she and Ethan arrived. Kenny, however, seemed oblivious to her gestures, engrossed in his phone, his brow furrowed, his mood visibly sour.


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 Chapter 748

    ?Chapter 748:


    ¡°Minna, Brenna,e here. I want to talk to you about something,¡± Belen called out.


    Minna, who had been preparing vegetables for the meal, stopped, washed her hands, and approached Belen.


    Minna¡¯s demeanor was notably warm, far more animated and affectionate toward Belen than Brenna. She sped Belen¡¯s hand eagerly. ¡°I¡¯m preparing a few dishes for you. I¡¯m a decent cook, and I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll enjoy them.¡±


    Belenughed heartily. ¡°No hurry. It¡¯s rare for both my grandsons to have found partners. As their grandmother, I want to express my joy. I¡¯ve prepared gifts for both of you.¡±


    Brenna exchanged a look with Ethan, who gave a subtle shake of his head. He was as clueless as she was about when Minna and Kenny had be an item. But it was obvious that it was the reality, since Belen had said that.


    Brenna studied Minna, who appearedpletely at ease, still holding Belen¡¯s hand with genuine warmth.


    ¡°There¡¯s no need for gifts. Elsa already gave me an engagement present.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s surprise deepened. Minna and Kenny were already engaged? Her eyes drifted to Minna¡¯s hand, where a sizable diamond ring sparkled.


    Kenny wore a matching one.


    They were really engaged.


    Yet Kenny¡¯s aloof attitude toward Minna suggested he wasn¡¯t really into her. As Brenna¡¯s thoughts swirled, Belen produced two identical red velvet jewelry boxes from behind her, the kind typically used for high-end jewelry.


    ¡°One for each of you!¡± Belen said with a beaming smile, handing Brenna and Minna the boxes.


    Brenna opened hers right away, revealing a hefty gold bangle inside. ¡°Thank you, Belen.¡±


    Minna, however, hesitated. She believed opening a gift in front of everyone seemed impolite.


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    She fretted that Belen¡¯s gift to her might pale inparison to the one Belen had given Brenna. If so, unveiling it would embarrass both her and Belen.


    She stared at the box, lost in her concerns.


    But Brenna, with her candid nature, had already opened hers, and Belen¡¯s face lit up, her eyes crinkling with joy. ¡°Do you like it?¡±


    Brenna grinned widely. ¡°I love it. Thank you so much.¡±


    Minna caught sight of the thick gold bangle, clearly expensive. It was likely worth tens of thousands.


    Reluctantly, she opened her box and found an identical gold bangle. She exhaled in relief. ¡°It¡¯s lovely. I hope it wasn¡¯t too costly.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Giving you gifts brings me joy,¡± Belen replied.


    In fact, Belen hadn¡¯t paid for the gifts. She had asked her son to arrange them, and he wouldn¡¯t dream of billing her.


    She had specifically requested two identical, solid gold bangles, and he had delivered.


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 Chapter 749

    ?Chapter 749:


    Brenna slipped the bangle onto her left wrist immediately. ¡°It¡¯s stunning. I¡¯ve got something for you, too.¡±


    She pulled arge envelope of cash from her bag and handed it to Belen. ¡°Please don¡¯t refuse this. Ethan and I don¡¯t visit often, so take this money and treat yourself. Spend it freely, and when it¡¯s spent, I¡¯ll bring more.¡±


    Belen loved money. Though she was old and spent little now, the sight of the thick envelope made her beam.


    Minna, meanwhile, felt a bit awkward. She had only brought fruit and cakes for Belen. Elsa hadn¡¯t suggested bringing something expensive before.


    Minna guessed Brenna¡¯s envelope held at least twenty thousand.


    She felt outdone, but it was toote for her to prepare cash now.


    Embarrassment washed over her, and her resentment toward Brenna surged.


    Belen opened the envelope, revealing exactly twenty thousand.


    ¡°Your visit alone delights me. No need to bring me money next time,¡± Belen said to Brenna.


    Brenna smiled. ¡°Alright. I also brought some dishes from the Peace Hotel for you. They¡¯re all light in vor, including three types of ravioli. You can try themter.¡±


    ¡°The Peace Hotel! That¡¯s a historic ce. Their food is pricey; even the simplest dishes run in the hundreds. But oh, so delicious,¡± Belen said, thrilled, as she began counting the cash.


    Minna¡¯s difort grew. Brenna had given Belen money, and she hadn¡¯t. Was Brenna doing this on purpose to humiliate her?


    Brenna didn¡¯t give it much thought; twenty thousand dors was trivial to her. She had no desire to outshine Minna or make her feel small. In fact, she hadn¡¯t even known Minna would be at the gathering until she arrived.


    With a lighthearted grin, she said to Belen, ¡°You can count it slowlyter. If a bill or two is missing, just tell me, and I¡¯ll cover it.¡±


    Belen smiled warmly, her eyes sparkling at the sight of the cash. She counted it slowly, enjoying the moment. ¡°I trust you, dear. Even if a bill or two is missing, I wouldn¡¯t bother you about it.¡±


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    Minna, observing Belen¡¯s delight over the money, felt a twinge of disdain, her impression of Belen souring.


    She patted her pockets, realizing she had no cash.


    ncing at Kenny and Elsa, she felt too embarrassed to ask them for money.


    Seeing Minna¡¯s difort, Bess stepped forward, positioning herself in front of Belen. ¡°Grandma, enough with the counting. What¡¯s the point? It¡¯s just twenty thousand dors, and you¡¯re acting so thrilled. If you love money that much, I¡¯ll transfer you some right now.¡±


    She shot Brenna a pointed look, clearly displeased. Did Brenna think she was the only one with money to spare?


    Belen set the money aside. She didn¡¯t care who gave her gifts or who didn¡¯t; at her age, she didn¡¯t mind trivial matters like this. But with Minna present, she wanted to keep things gracious. She tucked the money back into the envelope. ¡°Fine, fine, I¡¯ll stop counting.¡±


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 Chapter 750

    ?Chapter 750:


    She then went to store the envelope of money in a cab, and Bess threw Brenna a smug nce, muttering, ¡°It¡¯s just some cash. What¡¯s so special? Do you think we don¡¯t have twenty thousand dors?¡±


    Bess¡¯ tone was sharp, aiming to rattle Brenna. She hoped to see her embarrassed or crying.


    If Brenna dared toin to Belenter, Bess was ready to use Brenna of targeting her future mother-inw.


    She smirked, scoffing at Brenna¡¯s blunt gift of cash and her behavior of bringing costly restaurant takeout. Did Brenna think her family couldn¡¯t afford this?


    Today, Bess was set on humbling Brenna.


    Belen returned to sit between Brenna and Minna, her face glowing with a smile as she chatted with them.


    Bess, clutching her phone, said to Belen, ¡°Grandma, I¡¯ll send you twenty thousand dors, too. It¡¯s not fair if Miss Harper gives you money and Minna and I don¡¯t. If she¡¯s giving you money as a gift, we should all do it.¡±


    Brenna observed Bess¡¯ theatrics with a neutral expression, ignoring her attempt to stir tension in front of Belen.


    Minna, pleased to have Bess backing her, pulled out her phone. ¡°Exactly. Brenna gave you a gift, and I didn¡¯t. I feel awful, but I don¡¯t have cash today, so I¡¯ll transfer some money to you.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to do this. Whether you give me money or not, you¡¯re still my granddaughter and future granddaughter-inw,¡± Belen said. Sharp and insightful, she saw through her granddaughter¡¯s ploy.


    Bess was still putting on an act. ¡°But Grandma, Brenna gave you twenty thousand dors, and we didn¡¯t. Won¡¯t you think we¡¯re thoughtless and favor her over us?¡±


    Belen took Brenna¡¯s hand in one and Minna¡¯s in the other, saying earnestly, ¡°Not at all. To me, you¡¯re all equal. See, the gold bangles I gave Brenna and Minna are the same.¡±


    Bess shot Brenna a triumphant look as if to say, ¡°Even after your twenty thousand dors, Belen doesn¡¯t value you more than us.¡±


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    Brenna found Bess¡¯ behavior immature. She knew Bess thought she waspeting for Belen¡¯s favor with them. But in reality, such petty tricks were beneath her.


    Bess¡¯ perception of Brenna was shaped solely by what Elsa had said before. She saw Brenna as a maniptive seductress, someone with nothing but looks, skilled only at charming men.


    ¡°Grandma, with everyone here today, we still need to make ravioli. Why not have Brenna help out?¡± Bess assumed Brenna couldn¡¯t cook and wanted to see her embarrassed, curious if Ethan would still care for such a woman.


    Belen shot her granddaughter a stern look. ¡°Stop talking nonsense. She¡¯s a guest here; we can¡¯t let her work. Why don¡¯t you go prep the vegetables now? If you don¡¯t, what will we serveter?¡±


    Bess grumbled unhappily, sharing a nce with Minna, but didn¡¯t move to prepare anything.


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 Chapter 751

    ?Chapter 751:


    She couldn¡¯t just let Brenna cozy up to Belen.


    ¡°Sweetheart, tell me about your family. What do they do?¡± Belen asked Brenna first, since she was the one who had given her money.


    ¡°I have two brothers. My dad and brothers run small businesses, and my mom¡¯s a teacher,¡± Brenna answered calmly, appreciating that Belen wasn¡¯t swayed by Bess and finding her genuinely kind.


    Bess let out a soft, mockingugh. ¡°Really? No wonder you dropped twenty grand like it was pocket change. So your family runs a business. Still, I don¡¯t see you and Ethan as a match. He¡¯s the wealthiest man in the world, after all. Are you in a rtionship with Ethan only for his money?¡±


    She shifted her attention to Minna. ¡°Don¡¯t you think so, Minna?¡±


    Minna, aware of Brenna¡¯s background, chose silence, allowing Bess to carry on unchallenged.


    Belen¡¯s gaze flicked toward Brenna, as though she was waiting for her to exin herself.


    Brenna¡¯s reply was calm. ¡°Everything I gave you was bought with my own money.¡±


    Ethan had been absorbed in his phone, replying to messages. Hearing their exchange, he finally looked up and said, ¡°Bess, that¡¯s enough. Brenna and Ie from equally prominent families.¡±


    Bess said nothing more and turned back to chopping vegetables.


    A littleter, Belen looked at Minna and asked, ¡°What do your parents do?¡±


    Minna suddenly saw how thoughtful Brenna had been. Had Brenna revealed that her father was president of the Harper Group and her mother a respected professor, she would¡¯ve struggled to talk about her own family.


    Now, she answered with ease, ¡°My father¡¯s an officer in the military, and my mother works with the military district¡¯s performance troupe. I¡¯m their only child.¡±


    From nearby, Bess said, ¡°Granny, there¡¯s a mountain of ravioli to make. We can¡¯t do it all alone. Get Minna and Brenna toe help.¡±


    Minna rose with a pleasant smile. ¡°I¡¯ll lend a hand.¡±


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    Brenna stood as well and followed her.


    Bess muttered with a sneer, ¡°Didn¡¯t expect you to actually join us to help.¡±


    Brenna said nothing. She got to work in silence, her smooth movements suggesting she¡¯d done this many times before.


    Bess and Minna kept their voices low as they chatted, making no effort to include Brenna in the conversation.


    ¡°Dalton¡¯s performing in Shirie next week; it¡¯s his debut concert. Are you going?¡± Bess asked Minna.


    They got so caught up in their chat that their work came to a halt; both were talking while scrolling on their phones.


    Brenna stole a quick look at Bess¡¯ screen and spotted a promo for Dalton¡¯s uing concert, along with the cover of his new album.


    ¡°Dalton vanished for half a year. I thought he was done with the entertainment industry. Turns out he was quietly nning a concert!¡± Bess said.


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 Chapter 752

    ?Chapter 752:


    Minna¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Did you manage to get tickets? I heard the front ten rows go for ten grand. They¡¯re nearly impossible to get.¡±


    Bess let out a sigh. ¡°I managed to get a ticket, but the seat is awful. I¡¯ll probably need binocrs just to see him.¡±


    Once the vegetables were sorted, Brenna gathered them into a bowl and moved toward the sink.


    Just then, her phone began to ring¡ªa video call.


    Ethan, finished with his work, took the bowl from her hands. ¡°I¡¯ll handle these. Go answer your call.¡±


    Brenna rinsed her hands and finally picked up the call that had been ringing loud enough for everyone to hear. Bess and Minna exchanged a look, convinced Brenna had been ignoring it on purpose.


    The two whispered to each other with a sneer, talking about Brenna with disdain.


    When Brenna finally answered the video call, Dalton¡¯s face filled the screen. He wore a powdered wig and historical costume, looking even more striking than usual.


    ¡°Dalton, are you filming?¡± Brenna asked, surprised.


    It had been a while since she had seen him; he had been busy recently, and even his calls had be scarce.


    While having his makeup removed by staff, Dalton still managed to make the video call. ¡°We wrapped up today, I¡¯ll be home tonight. I tried calling Mom but got nothing. Any idea where she is?¡±


    Brenna shook her head. ¡°I think she went to the estate. Our parents and uncle are trying to convince Grandma to move in with them. They¡¯re worried about her living alone.¡±


    Dalton caught sight of the unfamiliar setting behind Brenna. ¡°Where are you?¡± he asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m at Ethan¡¯s grandmother¡¯s ce.¡± Brenna flipped the camera to show Ethan at the sink, washing vegetables.


    Dalton¡¯s brows shot up. ¡°The richest man in the world doing kitchen chores? This is the kind of thing that would make headlines!¡±


    Ethan nced over, a small smirk on his lips. ¡°Hey, superstar, what have you been up to? Need any sponsorship?¡±


    ¡°You bet I am,¡± Daltonughed. ¡°Endorsements, sponsorships¡ªhook me up, Ethan.¡±


    Bess, who had been scrambling to get concert tickets, lit up at the mention of a superstar. She hurried over to Ethan and asked eagerly, ¡°Ethan, is yourpany working with any celebrities? Can you score me an autograph?¡±


    She caught a fleeting glimpse of the man on Brenna¡¯s screen and instantly froze, recognition dawning. Before she could react, Brenna angled the phone away and carried on chatting with Dalton. ¡°What would you like for dinner tonight?¡±


    Bess approached Brenna, disbelief etched on her face. ¡°Is that¡­ Dalton? Are you actually talking to Dalton? You know him?¡±


    Her eyes darted toward Ethan, who stayed focused on the vegetables, seemingly not paying attention to her and Brenna.


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 Chapter 753

    ?Chapter 753:


    Then, she turned back to Brenna, her voice sharp with suspicion. ¡°Is Dalton keeping you as his mistress?¡±


    ¡°What kind of nonsense are you saying? He is my brother,¡± Brenna snapped, clearly irritated.


    Inside the kitchen, Ethan had just finished cleaning the vegetables when Elsa walked over. Without a word, she took the bowl from his hands.


    ¡°It¡¯s rare to see someone like you helping out in the kitchen,¡± she said.


    Elsa shot Brenna a sharp look, the kind that carried quiet usation, ming her for asking her son to help in the kitchen.


    Despite everything that had happened, Elsa couldn¡¯t bring herself to fully cut off her connection with Ethan. After all, he was her son.


    Without another word, Elsa began to prepare the ingredients for the meal.


    Meanwhile, Bess wasn¡¯t buying Brenna¡¯s exnation. She held onto Brenna¡¯s arm tightly and yelled, ¡°Just admit it! You¡¯re cheating on Ethan, aren¡¯t you? That¡¯s why you said the money for Grandma didn¡¯te from Ethan. It must¡¯ve been from another guy. I can¡¯t believe Dalton would¡ª¡±


    Before she could finish, Ethan stepped in and removed her hand from Brenna¡¯s arm. There was a subtle, amused glint in his eyes. ¡°Brenna¡¯s telling the truth. Dalton is a Harper; he is Brenna¡¯s brother.¡±


    ¡°What? Really?¡± Bess¡¯ eyes darted to Brenna, and she suddenly noticed the resemnce between Dalton and Brenna. Regret flooded her as she thought back on her earlier harsh words.


    A part of her now desperately wanted to ask Brenna for Dalton¡¯s contact info.


    But her own harsh behavior earlier held her back, keeping her silent.


    At that moment, Kenny walked out of his room, his face dark with frustration. He didn¡¯t say anything as he walked toward the gate, pulled out a cigarette, and lit it with a sigh.


    Minna quickly walked over to him.


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    ¡°Hey, what¡¯s wrong? Did something happen?¡± she asked, concern in her voice.


    ¡°The militarymand won¡¯t reverse their decision,¡± Kenny replied, frustrationcing his voice. He was in this situation because of Minna and his mother, so he didn¡¯t like Minna.


    As his eyes drifted to the ring on his finger, he slipped it off and carelessly tucked it into his jacket pocket.


    Minna¡¯s heart sank. ¡°Why are you taking off the ring?¡±


    She had a bad feeling; she could sense that he no longer wanted to be in a rtionship with her.


    Kenny exhaled a stream of smoke and said casually, ¡°We wore these rings and yed the part so I could resume being a pilot in the military. But now that the military refuses to lift my penalty, there¡¯s no reason to continue the act. The engagement ceremony we nned can be canceled. From this moment on, we can go our separate ways.¡±


    ¡°Absolutely not!¡± Minna shouted, her fury boiling over. ¡°What do you take me for? A tool to be used when it¡¯s convenient and discarded when it¡¯s not? My reputation and career are already ruined. I do not ept what you are saying!¡±


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 Chapter 754

    ?Chapter 754:


    Why should she be the one to lose everything? Did he think he could just use and abandon her like this?


    ¡°Why is it that only your ns matter?¡± Minna asked, her voice rising as she stood her ground. Bess remained lost in her thoughts,pletely unaware of the heated exchange nearby.


    Brenna and Ethan heard every word, but they chose to stay out of it.


    ¡°Come here and help with the ravioli!¡± Elsa called to all of them from inside the kitchen.


    Elsa spoke with them, trying to maintain a casual tone so that Belen wouldn¡¯t notice the tension between her and her son.


    But Belen, wise and observant after years of experience, wasn¡¯t so easily fooled. Pretending not to notice, Belen turned her focus to Brenna during the meal. She repeatedly praised her, especiallyplimenting the dishes she had brought.


    Elsa quickly picked up on the hint¡ªBelen was showing clear support for Brenna.


    After the meal, Ethan left with Brenna.


    Bess walked them to the car herself, several times on the verge of apologizing to Brenna, but the words never made it out.


    While seated inside the car, Brenna brought up Kenny. ¡°It looks like Kenny really did lose his position.¡±


    She considered suggesting that Ethan use his influence to help Kenny regain his position in the military since the situation had started because of her. Even though Ethan didn¡¯t get along with his rtives, they were still his family. She felt there was no need for things to remain so tense.


    Ethan said, ¡°Just ignore him. My parents and grandfather have no shortage of contacts in the military. They can pull strings without me. And honestly, I don¡¯t want to get involved. If I step in now, they¡¯ll take it as a sign of weakness, thinking that I feel guilty.¡±


    ¡°Then next time, they¡¯ll go even further, trying to drive a wedge between us. They should deal with the consequences of their actions on their own.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Brenna respected his stance. Since they weren¡¯t married yet, it didn¡¯t feel right for her to interfere in his family affairs, so she chose not to say anything about the matter.


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    After a pause, she said, ¡°I saw the rings on Minna¡¯s and Kenny¡¯s fingers. Does that mean they¡¯re engaged?¡±


    She nced over at Ethan as he focused on the road. Even from that side profile, his features were striking.


    ¡°I haven¡¯t been told anything, but probably,¡± Ethan replied. ¡°Judging by their behavior, I¡¯d say they are. Otherwise, they wouldn¡¯t wear matching rings like that.¡±


    Thinking it over, Ethan added, ¡°They were probably trying to convince the military officials that Kenny wasn¡¯t pretending to be me on a date. That he was with someone he genuinely cared about. Looks like it didn¡¯t work. The military clearly didn¡¯t buy the story.¡±


    That evening, Shepard returned home with Giselle, but Tessa stayed behind.


    ¡°Your grandfather passed away in our home, and it¡¯s a ce of sorrow for your grandmother now. She doesn¡¯t want to visit. Plus, your uncle is still healing and can¡¯t move easily, so she doesn¡¯t want to trouble him,¡± Shepard told his three children over dinner.


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 Chapter 755

    ?Chapter 755:


    Giselle offered sce, saying, ¡°We can visit her regrly. If she¡¯s not ready to move here, we shouldn¡¯t push her.¡±


    Shepard let out a frustrated sigh. ¡°Tessa adored Rosie, but look at Rosie now. Since your grandfather¡¯s death, Rosie hasn¡¯t once checked on Tessa. She¡¯s so ungrateful. When she needed favors from your grandparents, she showed up quicker than anyone. Now that your grandfather¡¯s gone and your grandmother holds no shares, Rosie can¡¯t be bothered.¡±


    Ernst defended Rosie, saying, ¡°She has been swamped with some messy problemstely. She¡¯s under a lot of pressure.¡±


    He had heard about her turmoil through news reports. Since the Harper family members had been attacked one after another in recent days, he hadn¡¯t been in touch with Rosie.


    This only fueled Shepard¡¯s anger. ¡°She brought that on herself. Our family may not have given her shares, but we always treated her well before. Yet she tried to harm us. How could she be so cruel?¡±


    Dalton said, ¡°I don¡¯t think Rosie¡¯s behind all those incidents. Consider this: the Harper family¡¯s shares are split among many rtives. Even if she killed shareholders, she wouldn¡¯t inherit their portions. It doesn¡¯t make sense.¡±


    Shepard followed the reasoning but wasn¡¯t convinced. ¡°What if her goal is mutual destruction? What if she just wants to take everyone down with her?¡±


    Dalton shook his head firmly. ¡°No way. She has built sessful businesses over the years, especially in Opril. She¡¯s too smart to throw it all away like that.¡±


    Brenna said, ¡°Dalton¡¯s got a point. Ethan is looking into it, and it seems likely Maxley¡¯s siblings are the culprits, trying to weaken us and undercut Maxley¡¯s influence in Vand.¡±


    Giselle, hearing this, immediately zeroed in on Brenna. ¡°Are you still seeing Ethan? His mother treated you terribly. Brenna, I¡¯m attending a reunion with old ssmates soon; it¡¯s a great chance towork. I¡¯ll scout some eligible men for you. You don¡¯t have to be with Ethan. Ethan¡¯s mother dislikes you, and I don¡¯t like her and her son, either!¡±


    Brennaughed softly. ¡°Mom, Ethan has already settled things with his family.¡±


    ¡°His mother won¡¯t make things difficult for me anymore.¡±


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    Giselle gave Brenna an exasperated eye-roll, feeling resigned. All three of her children had their own minds, and she couldn¡¯t sway any of them easily.


    She said, ¡°I won¡¯t meddle, but listen, take your time to really get to know each other before even thinking about marriage. People can mask their true selves, but their ws will show up eventually. Marry too fast, and you¡¯ll miss Ethan¡¯s faults; then you¡¯ll be the one hurting in the marriage.¡±


    Brenna quickly nodded. ¡°I understand.¡±


    On Monday, Brenna headed to the office. All morning, she noticed several female coworkers lingering near her door.


    When Lorna came in with water, Brenna asked, ¡°Is something on their minds? Why are they not working and just hanging around my office?¡±


    Lorna giggled. ¡°Brenna, word got out that the famous singer Dalton is your brother. He¡¯s got his first concerting up, and tickets are nearly impossible to get. They are hoping to score some from you but are too shy to ask.¡±


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 Chapter 756

    ?Chapter 756:


    Brenna nodded. ¡°Oh, that¡¯s what this is about.¡±


    She reached into her bag, pulled out a stack of about twenty tickets, and handed them to Lorna. ¡°My brother gave me these to share with whoever I want. Pass them out. If there aren¡¯t enough, just distribute them based on performance at work.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s fair. Thank you, Brenna!¡± Lorna, a Dalton fan herself, looked at the tickets and saw they were prime front-row seats. She quietly kept one for herself before heading out.


    Excited shouts echoed from the hallway when people learned about the tickets. At lunch, the staff headed to the cafeteria, but Brenna was still tied up with work.


    Greta entered Brenna¡¯s office. ¡°Brenna, you haven¡¯t gone to eat yet? If you wait too long, the best dishes will be gone. You can work after lunch.¡±


    Brenna nodded but stayed put. ¡°You guys go ahead. I¡¯ll head over once I¡¯m done here.¡±


    Greta stepped closer, catching a faint, pleasant scent on Brenna, different from her usual fragrance. She suspected Ethan must have bought Brenna her new perfume.


    ¡°I¡¯ll grab something for you then,¡± she said.


    ¡°Thanks.¡± Brenna kept her focus on her tasks.


    Greta hesitated for a moment before saying, ¡°Brenna, what perfume are you wearing? It smells amazing.¡±


    Brenna pulled the perfume bottle from her bag, set it on the desk, and continued working.


    Greta quickly snapped a photo of the perfume. ¡°I¡¯m off to eat now. I¡¯ll bring food over soon.¡±


    While riding the elevator, Greta, ignoring the people around her, scrolled through her phone, hunting for that specific perfume online. She was floored when she saw the price on the brand¡¯s official site¡ªa mere 150-milliliter bottle was priced at $199,000.


    She had only been working for two months, earning just over $20,000 a month. With her previous savings, she didn¡¯t need to ask her parents for money to buy the perfume.


    What frustrated her the most was that this exorbitantly priced perfume was a limited-edition release, and the official website didn¡¯t even offer a way to purchase it. Even if she could afford it, she couldn¡¯t get one.


    L?t?st ch¦Ápt?rs ¦Én g??l??ov§Ö???.????


    Luckily, she had an old ssmate in Valport. She swiftly sent them a WhatsApp message, asking for assistance in buying the perfume.


    That evening, Brenna arrived homete, past seven, after a long workday. The entire Harper family was gathered at home¡ªa rare urrence, as both Shepard and Ernst, usually busy, were free that night. They sat around the dining table, a few elegant invitation cards spread out before them. Dalton slid one toward Brenna.


    ¡°Check this out.¡±


    The card, a deep blue with intricate gold embossing, featured a somber image of earthquake destruction.


    Brenna gave it a quick nce. ¡°A charity g for fundraising? Are you all going?¡±


    Dalton gave a small nod. ¡°Absolutely. Doing charityes with its rewards; you know that.¡±


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 Chapter 757

    ?Chapter 757:


    Brenna understood well that charity work provided substantial perks for both business tycoons and celebrities.


    Shepard said to Brenna, ¡°Your business is freshly established, and now¡¯s the perfect moment to cement its standing. You should not only attend the event but also make a significant donation. I¡¯ve heard your firm focuses on prosthetics. The recent quake was catastrophic¡ª30,000 people were injured, many facing limb loss. By supplying free prosthetics to those affected, yourpany¡¯s reputation could soar.¡±


    Brenna had already thought of this. ¡°Okay. I¡¯m pledging 200 million and will provide free prosthetics for 2,000 people.¡±


    She scanned her family¡¯s faces. ¡°That should be enough, right?¡±


    The Harper family members stared at Brenna in astonishment. Ernst said, ¡°Your twopanies¡ªare they even pulling in enough revenue for that? Isn¡¯t this a bit much? It¡ª¡±


    Might strain your finances. Perhaps you could lower the amount, or the Harper Group could step in to cover it.¡±


    Realizing his concern, Brenna exined, ¡°Mypanies may be small, but they are doing well. Orders for smart prosthetics alone have exceeded a billion dors recently. This donation is not much to me, so no need to worry.¡± She kept quiet about the 30 billion she had secured just two days ago, not wanting her family to worry about her.


    The Harpers exhaled in relief, realizing that Brenna wasn¡¯t stretching herself thin for appearances.


    Shepard and Ernst shared a look. Impressed, Shepard said to Brenna, ¡°You¡¯re doing great. I haven¡¯t been paying much attention to yourpaniestely, and I didn¡¯t expect such rapid growth. How¡¯s production for the smart prosthetics going? If you¡¯re hitting roadblocks, your brother can hook you up with one of our tech firms to take on manufacturing. The Harper Group has techpanies with excellent production capabilities.¡±


    Ernst nodded, quietly marveling at his sister¡¯s business acumen. If the Harper Group were handed over to her, it would likely operate better.


    ¡°I¡¯d be happy to help,¡± Ernst said.


    Brenna smiled. ¡°Thanks. But my team has already locked in a solid domestic manufacturer. They handled our prototypes, and the quality was impable.¡±


    Exclusive updates avable g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s


    ¡°d to hear it,¡± Shepard replied.


    After dinner, Brenna headed upstairs, with Patrick trailing her into her room. Patrick had been spending the past few days with Julia, who had been taking him out to explore whenever she had free time. He was happy.


    ¡°My mom¡¯sing back tomorrow, Brenna. I¡¯ll be heading home then.¡± Patrick seemed reluctant to leave. The Harper family¡¯s gourmet meals had spoiled him, and he had put on a bit of weight, looking healthier than ever.


    Clinging to Brenna, he sighed. ¡°I¡¯m going to miss the amazing meals here.¡± Brenna ruffled his hair. ¡°Why not ask your mom to hire a chef for tasty meals at home? Your parents can easily afford it. I¡¯ll talk to them tomorrow and suggest they hire one as soon as possible. How¡¯s that?¡± Patrick¡¯s face lit up. ¡°You¡¯re the best, Brenna!¡±


    The next day, Brenna went to work as usual, wrapping up early to shop for a gown for the charity g.


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 Chapter 758

    ?Chapter 758:


    Before leaving work, she asked Lorna where she could find a good gown. Lorna suggested she go to a street in Shirie, packed with upscale boutiques. Brenna headed there straightaway.


    In the past, Brenna had relied on Ellie to craft her gowns, each one tailored to perfection. But with Ellie on holiday, she had to buy a gown this time. She explored multiple shops in session, yet nothing met her standards¡ªeither the materials felt subpar, or the styles failed to impress her.


    Atst, outside one store, a mannequin caught her attention. It wore a delicatevender off-shoulder dress, fitted at the waist, with tiny diamonds that shimmered in the light.


    The moment Brennaid her eyes on it, she was utterly enchanted.


    The boutique was impressively spacious for a specialty store, showcasing dresses suited for any asion. At the very entrance stood the most breathtaking piece in the entire collection.


    Brenna paused, entranced by the dress¡¯s beauty, and instinctively reached out to touch it.


    Before her fingers could make contact, a sales associate rushed over, gently intercepting her hand. ¡°Please don¡¯t touch it!¡±


    Brenna couldn¡¯t help but frown. She held back her curiosity and asked the sales associate, ¡°I¡¯m not even allowed to touch it?¡±


    The sales associate hadn¡¯t meant to be rude. She quickly bowed and offered a sincere apology. ¡°I¡¯m truly sorry, Miss. Please don¡¯t take it the wrong way. I meant no offense. This dress is worth seven million dors. It¡¯s the centerpiece of our store, custom-made for a client. If it were to get damaged or stained, we simply couldn¡¯t afford the loss. I hope you understand.¡±


    Brenna gave a small nod. The sales associate¡¯s apology was genuine, her tone professional and respectful. She saw no reason to make things difficult for her. With a small nod, she withdrew her hand. ¡°I understand.¡±


    Relief washed over the sales associate¡¯s face. ¡°Thank you so much for your understanding. Please,e in. If you would like assistance selecting a gown, I would be more than happy to help.¡±


    Earlier that day, two customers had adamantly tried to purchase the dress on disy. It had taken her a long time to talk them out of it, enduring a stream of verbal abuse in the process.


    Your escape is on g ? ln ¦Ò ¦Í?? ??s


    Now, faced with someone so understanding like Brenna, she couldn¡¯t help but feel a quiet sense of gratitude.


    She turned to Brenna with a warm smile. ¡°Miss, may I ask what kind of event you will be attending? I can help you find a suitable gown.¡±


    ¡°There was a major earthquake recently. Someone is hosting a charity g to raise funds. I am attending the g,¡± Brenna replied as she nced through a row of gowns.


    The sales associate nodded with a professional air. ¡°I see¡ªit¡¯s a more solemn asion, then. In that case, a dress with understated elegance would be most appropriate. Do you have a budget in mind, Miss?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s eyes briefly scanned the price tags. Many of the dresses ranged from tens of thousands to several hundred thousand dors, with some even pushing past the million mark.


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 Chapter 759

    ?Chapter 759:


    ¡°Something in the hundred-thousand range will do.¡± Brenna wasn¡¯t aiming to stand out or wear something showy. Her thoughts were with those affected by the disaster. It didn¡¯t feel right to show up in anything too extravagant.


    ¡°Oh, please! You just walked away with a massive payout two days ago, but now, you¡¯re settling for a dress that costs only a few hundred thousand?¡± A sharp, mocking voice rang out behind Brenna. She turned to see the speaker approaching. Isabe wore a strapless rose-gold gown and a gleaming ruby ne. From the look of it, her outfit and essoriesbined were easily worth over two million.


    ¡°Oh. It¡¯s you.¡± Brenna wasn¡¯t in the least bit surprised to find Isabe decked out in such extravagance. Denis hade into over thirty billion recently, and naturally, he would share some of it with Isabe.


    ¡°What a coincidence, Miss Harper.¡± As expected, Denis appeared just behind Isabe, apanied by Tina. Tina wore a rich, deep purple gown tailored to perfection; her gown also looked expensive.


    Looking at Brenna, Denis sneered. ¡°You took over thirty billion from me, and now, you¡¯re being cheap about buying a dress? Settling for something worth only a few hundred thousand? What are you nning to do with all that money?¡±


    The thought that Brenna had walked away with half of Jade¡¯s fortune still made his blood boil.


    Isabe also couldn¡¯t hide her resentment. If Brenna hadn¡¯t taken the money, she could have pocketed a few more for herself.


    But Brenna had already taken the money, and there was no getting it back. All Isabe and Denis could do now was berate her to vent their frustrations.


    ¡°Exactly! Is the Harper family about to go bankrupt or something? You can¡¯t even afford to buy a decent dress?¡± Isabe said, her voiceced with sarcasm. She gestured toward the most extravagant gown disyed at the entrance. ¡°Since you are a member of the wealthy Harper family, shouldn¡¯t you be buying the most expensive dress in the store?¡±


    Tina, who had never been particrly fond of Brenna, stayed silent nearby. She wasn¡¯t looking to stir up trouble with the Harper family, so she simply watched from the sidelines.


    Isabe suddenly grabbed Brenna¡¯s arm and tried to pull her toward the entrance disy. ¡°The sales associate just said it¡¯s worth seven million. Honestly, this is the only¡­¡±


    M??? ?¦Ñ????? ?? ?????¦Í???.???


    ¡°Dress worthy of someone like you. Buy it already. Stop pretending that you can¡¯t afford it.¡±


    Brenna yanked her arm free without hesitation. Her voice was firm. ¡°Are you out of your mind? How much money I have and how I choose to spend it is none of your concern. Just because I have money doesn¡¯t mean I¡¯m obligated to throw it around. Who taught you that kind of logic?¡±


    The moment Brenna saw the trio, any desire to continue shopping there vanished. Her mood, once pleasant, hadpletely soured.


    Still, she wasn¡¯t about to let Isabe off so easily.


    Brenna said to Isabe, ¡°Why are you so focused on me? You also have plenty of money, so why are you settling for these cheap dresses? Does Denis not want to spend on you, or are you unwilling to use your own money?¡±


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 Chapter 760

    ?Chapter 760:


    She then cast a cold nce at Denis. ¡°Denis, for someone as rich as you, with a whole harem of women and a fresh cash influx¡ªdon¡¯t tell me you can¡¯t spare a few million?¡±


    She gestured toward the most expensive gown. ¡°That¡¯s the most expensive dress in the store, Denis. Surely someone of your wealth wouldn¡¯t think twice about buying it, right?¡±


    After the chaos, Brenna no longer felt like shopping for a new dress. She decided to choose from the selection already in her closet, several of which were custom pieces from Ellie that she¡¯d only worn once.


    She left the shop and returned home.


    As soon as she stepped inside, Julia greeted her with a polite smile. ¡°Miss Harper, Patrick has already been picked up by his parents. Ellie left you a gift and mentioned she¡¯d love to invite you to a meal sometime; she hopes you¡¯ll bring Mr. Mitchell along.¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± Brenna replied calmly. Ellie had already called her on the way back, so the news came as no surprise.


    Brenna then transferred eighteen thousand dors to Julia as a token of thanks for taking care of Patrick. Though caring for Patrick was part of her role, the generous tip left Julia glowing. It was an indication that her efforts had been seen and appreciated.


    After returning to work, Brenna forgot about the prestigious charity g. She was in her office, immersed in reviewing blueprints for multiple prosthetic designs, when Ethan knocked and stepped inside, holding arge bag.


    Without a word, he set the bag on her desk.


    Brenna noticed the store logo stamped on the bag¡ªit was from the boutique where she had spotted thevender dress.


    ¡°What¡¯s this?¡± Brenna asked, peering into the bag. Anotheryer of wrapping concealed whatevery inside.


    ¡°This is for the charity g tonight. I had a dress made for you. Put it on, and then, we can go,¡± Ethan said.


    Discover more


    Lorna, who¡¯d seen Ethan arrive with the bag, lingered by the doorway, already anticipating that Brenna would need assistance.


    ¡°Alright,¡± Brenna responded with a nod.


    The moment Brenna agreed, Lorna stepped in, took the bag, and followed her into the adjoining restroom.


    ¡°Oh, this dress is stunning! Are these actual diamonds?¡± Lorna let out a startled gasp when her eyesnded on thevender dress. With deliberate care, she lifted it from the bag, handling the fabric as though it might tear or stain at the slightest touch.


    Seeing the dress, Brenna realized that the dress she had seen and instantly liked that day in the store was custom-made for her by Ethan.


    She put on the dress, feeling delighted. Lorna packed her clothes into the bag and followed her out.


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell, this dress is beautiful. Brenna looks breathtaking in it,¡± Lorna said with a smile.


    Ethan¡¯s eyes lit up when he saw Brenna in the dress. ¡°It¡¯s absolutely perfect. The dress couldn¡¯t suit her better.¡±


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 Chapter 761

    ?Chapter 761:


    Right then, Greta entered the room and saw Brenna. Brenna looked like something out of a storybook, every inch the elegant princess. Greta couldn¡¯t help but imagine how the same dress might look on her.


    Brenna had a great figure, and the dress hugged her curves perfectly.


    ¡°You look absolutely gorgeous, Brenna,¡± Greta said. Her tone was warm, though a faint flicker of envy colored her gaze.


    The sparkling embellishments on the dress were diamonds, weren¡¯t they? This dress had to be worth millions.


    Greta quietly wondered if she¡¯d ever wear something so extravagant in her lifetime.


    Ethan stepped up beside Brenna, and she slipped her arm through his with effortless grace.


    Lorna and Neville, still lingering by the door, whipped out their phones and snapped a flurry of photos of them. They experimented with different angles, and despite the office setting, the shots turned out beautifully.


    Greta moved a little more slowly but still seeded in capturing a few shots. Rather than share them with Brenna, she nned to tweak the imagester¡ªswapping Brenna¡¯s face with her own.


    With Ethan beside her, Brenna exited the office, their arms linked. The moment they stepped out, apuse and surprised gasps erupted.


    The employees outside buzzed with excitement, their attention fixed on the couple.


    The grand charity g took ce at a luxurious five-star restaurant, hosted by one of Shirie¡¯s most respected phnthropists.


    The moment Ethan and Brenna entered the venue, they caused a stir.


    Everyone in the hall turned to stare, and even Neville and Lorna, walking just behind, drew plenty of notice themselves. Compliments rippled through the hall as Ethan and Brenna acknowledged guests with poised smiles. Eventually, the guests returned to their conversations.


    Across the room, however, Shepard and Giselle were far from pleased. Their daughter had clearly been seeing Ethan behind their backs.


    Just as they moved to ask Brenna about the matter, Denis, Isabe, and Tina walked over.


    Isabe¡¯s voice carried a trace of envy as she asked, ¡°This dress is yours?¡±


    A seven-million-dor dress¡ªhow could Brenna possibly be the one wearing it? If it had been anyone else, Isabe might not have minded. She just couldn¡¯t stand Brenna outshining her.


    Ethan turned to her, his tone cool. ¡°I had the dress custom-made for her. Any issues with that?¡±


    Isabe huffed in dissatisfaction but said nothing more.


    Tina looked at Ethan, her heart fluttering. Only a few days earlier, she had learned that Ethan¡¯s mother disapproved of Brenna and Ethan¡¯s rtionship, and she had taken the chance to express her own interest in him. But she never received a reply, leaving her to wonder if her message had reached Ethan at all, or if he¡¯d simply chosen to ignore it.


    Denis sneered, ¡°Mr. Mitchell, you are certainly generous to Brenna, buying her such an expensive dress. You must really love her.¡±


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 Chapter 762

    ?Chapter 762:


    Ethan nced at Isabe before retorting to Denis, ¡°Of course, I love Brenna. Are you implying that things are different between you and Miss Barrett?¡±


    His expression shifted, as if something had just clicked. ¡°Ah, that¡¯s right. You¡¯ve been involved with quite a few womentely. You¡¯re quite the romantic, aren¡¯t you? I even heard you¡¯re very close to an actress recently.¡±


    Denis loathed Ethan with every fiber of his being. How dare this man air his dirtyundry in public? Still, Denis wasn¡¯t rattled. After all, what wealthy man didn¡¯t have a few women by his side?


    With a scoff, he replied, ¡°I could neverpete with you, Mr. Mitchell. You have one woman at home and one outside, both hoping to be your wife. I wonder which one will win.¡±


    He turned a derisive look toward Brenna. ¡°Miss Harper, with your background, you wouldn¡¯t stoop to being someone¡¯s mistress, would you?¡±


    Denis shed a smug smile. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, it seems you and I are not so different.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s expression chilled. ¡°Don¡¯tpare me to you. I¡¯m only with Brenna. And as for the woman at home, she has nothing to do with me.¡±


    He paused, then added, ¡°In case you didn¡¯t know, she is already my sister-inw.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s eyes drifted across the room andnded on a familiar figure lounging against the bar. It was Jordy. She hadn¡¯t expected him to climb this high, rubbing elbows with Shirie¡¯s four most powerful families at an event like this.


    Catching Brenna¡¯s gaze, Jordy lifted his ss and offered her a faint smile. Brenna looked away in disgust, regretting having nced his way in the first ce.


    A momentter, Ernst arrived with a short-haired girl wearing a simple jumpsuit with short sleeves and long pants, giving off a fresh, innocent air. It was Lilith.


    ¡°Oh, you are here, too,¡± Brenna said, shifting to make space for Lilith.


    Lilith¡¯s eyes lit up as she took in Brenna¡¯s outfit. ¡°You look absolutely amazing tonight. Your brother picked out a dress for me, but it showed way too much skin for myfort. I couldn¡¯t bring myself to wear it. And now that I¡¯m here and everyone¡¯s mmed up like you, I feel so out of ce.¡± She let out an awkwardugh, clearly self-conscious.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± Brenna said. ¡°Just wear whatever makes youfortable. Forget what anyone else thinks.¡±


    Find thetest stories g?ln¦Òv??ls


    Lilith gestured toward a nearby table. ¡°There¡¯s cake over there. Do you want to try some?¡±


    ¡°Alright,¡± Brenna said, happy to go along. She appreciated that Lilith didn¡¯t seem intimidated or insecure around her. Moreover, she had noticed that no one seemed to recognize Lilith. She clearly didn¡¯t belong to the same elite social circle and wasn¡¯t blending in with the high-society crowd.


    ¡°Miss Harper, do you mind telling me how much you intend to donate?¡± A staff member approached Brenna with a courteous smile. ¡°We are finalizing the totals to announceter.¡± Everyone at the event was expected to donate.


    Brenna reached into her clutch, pulled out a neatly folded document, and handed it over without a word. The staff member opened the paper, and their expression flickered with surprise as they scanned the amount and specifics of the donation. They then looked at Brenna with respect. ¡°Thank you for your generosity, Miss Harper. On behalf of the people in the disaster-affected regions, we want to thank you.¡±


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 Chapter 763

    ?Chapter 763:


    ¡°There is no need to thank me,¡± Brenna responded calmly.


    Brenna and Lilith chatted casually while sampling slices of cake. Lilith spoke freely, unafraid to express herself. She figured that if she was going to marry Ernst one day, getting along with Brenna was inevitable. And truthfully, she liked her. Brenna came across as genuine, a refreshing contrast to the fake women Lilith had encountered in the circle.


    ¡°These people don¡¯t even know who I am,¡± Lilith said, her voiceced with irritation. ¡°When they asked about my family, I told them the truth. And just like that, they straight-up said I wasn¡¯t good enough for your brother. Can you believe that? I am so angry!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t waste your energy on them. They are just jealous,¡± Brenna said without missing a beat, offering herfort.


    ¡°I think you¡¯re right. I might note from a family like theirs, and maybe I¡¯m not as pretty, but I am dating Ernst. They are just envious.¡± Lilith was smart and had no interest in pleasing people she didn¡¯t care about. ¡°I already told your brother that if we do get married, I won¡¯t be attending any of these social events. I have no desire to¡­¡±


    ¡°Mix with those rich wives and daughters. They¡¯re all so fake, wearing masks every day. It¡¯s too exhausting.¡±


    ¡°Brenna.¡±


    Before Brenna could reply, their conversation was abruptly cut off as a man slipped between them. Brenna turned and saw Jordy.


    She shot Jordy a sideways nce, her tone sharp. ¡°Don¡¯t talk to me. Go away.¡±


    Jordy let out a lightugh. ¡°Do you really have to be this cold to me? We dated once, after all. Can¡¯t we just have a quick chat? Why are you being like this? Don¡¯t tell me you still have feelings for me?¡±


    Brenna rolled her eyes. ¡°Not even close. Whatever was between us is over. I have nothing left to say to you. So, what on earth do you want?¡±


    Jordy nodded subtly toward Ethan. ¡°Take a look over there.¡±


    Brenna followed his line of sight and saw Tina hovering close to Ethan, her smile sugary as she leaned in, intentionally brushing her chest against him. Ethan took a step back to put some distance between them, his expression cold.


    Stay connected at g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s


    With a voice full of mockery, Jordy said, ¡°Ethan is quite a catch, right? How many women here do you think are dying to have him and resent you for being his girlfriend?¡±


    Although Brenna found Jordy increasingly intolerable, she had to admit he wasn¡¯t wrong. Within minutes, a small crowd of women had gathered around Ethan¡ªsome with sweet, innocent charm, others exuding high-society mour. A growing cluster of beauties surrounded Ethan, while Tina was shoved aside, her face tight with fury.


    Jordy let out a low, smug chuckle, his toneced with ridicule. ¡°Told you I was right, didn¡¯t I? With that many women swarming around Mr. Mitchell, if I were in his shoes, I¡¯d have slept with many by now. Honestly, sticking with him isn¡¯t smart. You¡¯d be better off with someone like me.¡±


    Brenna felt disgusted and looked Jordy up and down with disdain. ¡°You think you¡¯re worthy of beingpared to Ethan? Don¡¯t be ridiculous.¡±


    Lilith broke intoughter beside them. Brenna might carry herself like a refineddy, but when she spoke, her bluntness was evident.


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 Chapter 764

    ?Chapter 764:


    Jordy¡¯s face darkened. ¡°How dare you say that?¡±


    ¡°Just go away!¡± Brenna snapped, not sparing him another word as she turned away, done with the conversation.


    Jordy lingered, unwilling to leave. He still clung to the hope of persuading Brenna to end things with Ethan. He wanted Brenna to be with him because she was the daughter of the Harper family, one of the four powerful families in the city. If he became the son-inw of the Harper family, his family business would benefit immensely.


    He said, ¡°Seriously? You¡¯re chasing me off just for speaking the truth? Look at Mr. Mitchell¡ªso many women are swarming him.¡±


    ¡°Get lost!¡± Brenna snapped, lifting her skirt just enough to deliver a sharp kick straight at Jordy.


    That finally did the trick. Jordy backed off, sulking as he walked away.


    Lilith watched him retreat and turned to Brenna with aforting smile. ¡°Ignore him. He¡¯s just trying to get between you and Mr. Mitchell so he can be with you. That¡¯s all that nonsense was about.¡±


    She could tell Jordy had once dated Brenna, but it was obvious Brenna no longer had any affection for him.


    Brenna and Lilith made their way to the drinks table, each picking up a ss of wine before heading back to resume their meal.


    Though Brenna didn¡¯t have much appetite, she took small bites here and there to keep Lilithpany. Lilith, however, showed no restraint, gleefully savoring the luxury pastries as if they¡¯d vanish any second. She believed free treats of this caliber didn¡¯te around every day.


    ¡°Lilith?¡± Rosie had just handed the donation forms and check to the staff. As she roamed the hall, her eyes locked on someone who stood out in the elegant atmosphere. While the others nibbled politely, Lilith devoured her food with unbothered enthusiasm. ¡°I was wondering who could be thisughable, eating like they hadn¡¯t seen food in years. Of course, it¡¯s you.¡±


    Since Rosie hadpletely fallen out with the Harper family, she had no politeness left for them and spoke quite rudely.


    Besides, Lilith was merely Ernst¡¯s girlfriend, with a much less prestigious background, making Rosie look down on her even more.


    Your favorite tales are on g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s??§ànn


    Lilith had known Rosie for years, though their exchanges had always remained surface-level. But this was the first time Rosie spoke to her so harshly.


    A sting of difort rose in Lilith¡¯s chest, and she retorted, ¡°Why do you care? Am I eating your food?¡±


    Rosie let out a mockingugh, her tone dripping with contempt. ¡°Of course not. Go ahead and stuff your face. I just can¡¯t stand looking at you. Honestly, I don¡¯t know how the Harper family ever epted someone like you to be Ernst¡¯s girlfriend. How much money does your family even have? Five million?¡±


    Lilith stiffened. Her mother worked in finance, her father held a stable job, and theirbined savings definitely exceeded five million dors. But their savings were nothingpared to the Harpers¡¯. By society¡¯s standards, she wasn¡¯t exactly a perfect match for Ernst.


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 Chapter 765

    ?Chapter 765:


    Rosie¡¯s words left a bitter taste. Lilith¡¯s jaw tightened as she fired back, ¡°You¡¯re right¡ªmy family¡¯s not that wealthy. But at least I don¡¯t have nude photos of myself floating around the inte. If I were you, I would never show my face in public again.¡±


    Rosie snapped, ¡°How dare you say that?¡±


    That incident had left her deeply shaken. For nearly a month, she had refused to step outside, holed up at home as she worked tirelessly to scrub the inte clean¡ªdeleting posts, burying discussions, and doing everything she could to make the scandal go away.


    She had forced herself to pretend it had never happened. At tonight¡¯s charity ball, no one had dared bring it up¡ªuntil now. Just when she felt a bit better, Lilith mentioned the incident.


    Rosie raised her hand to hit Lilith.


    Brenna stepped in just in time, her grip catching Rosie¡¯s wrist mid-air. ¡°Struck a nerve, didn¡¯t she? So now you want to hit her?¡±


    Rosie scowled, yanking her arm back. ¡°This has nothing to do with you. Don¡¯t be so quick to y the hero. She¡¯s not even guaranteed a ce in the Harper family. I still am. Her insult is an insult to us all.¡±


    Brenna let out a coldugh. ¡°Oh, now we¡¯re family? When you dragged the entire Harper family to court, trying to ruin us, why didn¡¯t you say we were family?¡±


    Rosie sneered. ¡°Spare me the lecture. Am I wrong? She¡¯s just Ernst¡¯s girlfriend, not even engaged to him. He could do better, and probably will. So, back off. Tonight, I¡¯ll teach her a lesson!¡±


    Themotion in the vicinity drew the curiosity of several bystanders, who shifted their attention toward the unfolding scene.


    Brenna grasped Rosie¡¯s motives¡ªshe wanted to avoid stirring memories of the recent incident whenever others saw her. So, Rosie chose to ease up on Lilith. Scanning the gathered crowd, she locked eyes with the onlookers and said sharply, ¡°What¡¯s so fascinating? I¡¯m just talking to my cousin. Are you all that eager to eavesdrop?¡±


    As anticipated, people quickly looked away.


    Rosie, wary of sparking anothermotion that might draw scrutiny, softened her voice. ¡°I don¡¯t care who Ernst chooses to marry. I¡¯m here to pass on a message. Please tell Ethan I tried to reach him earlier, but the crowd around him was too thick, and I couldn¡¯t get through.¡±


    Updates loaded at g¦Ál¦Ç¦Ò¦Íe??s


    Brenna¡¯s stare was cold. ¡°Don¡¯t you have his WhatsApp? Can¡¯t you just message him? Why do I need to be your messenger?¡±


    Rosie exhaled resignedly. ¡°He blocked me ages ago and wouldn¡¯t pick up my calls. What else am I supposed to do?¡±


    Lilith, stung by Rosie¡¯s jabs earlier, lost her appetite for dessert. She discarded a small piece she had in the bin and sipped her drink slowly. It was merely a banquet, yet she had been ridiculed twice by people for not being worthy of Ernst, leaving her spirits low. Still, with Brenna¡¯s support, she felt shielded from further trouble.


    Brenna had little patience for Rosie, who looked down on those less privileged. Though Lilith¡¯s family wasn¡¯t as prominent as the Harpers, it was betterpared to most. Yet Rosie deemed Lilith unfit for the Harper family, a sentiment echoed by many in elite circles. If Brenna weren¡¯t so sessful herself, she might have struggled to carve out her ce in this circle, too.


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 Chapter 766

    ?Chapter 766:


    ¡°Just say what you need to say,¡± Brenna urged.


    Rosie finally said, ¡°Maxley¡¯s investigation uncovered that Jeffrey, his younger brother, is the one targeting the Harper family and Ethan. Maxley is his biggest rival, and he wants to use the Harper family and Ethan to eliminate Maxley. We didn¡¯t go after you. Maxley has evidence and wants to share it with Ethan in person.¡±


    Brenna nced at Ethan. ¡°Go talk to him yourself.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s voice tightened with frustration. ¡°Don¡¯t you get it? Ethan refuses to see me or Maxley. Do you think I would be here if I could just approach him? I can¡¯t even get close to him!¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s already aware of the situation,¡± Brenna replied icily. ¡°Or do you think you and Maxley would still be breathing? Now, say sorry to Lilith.¡±


    ¡°Absolutely not!¡± Rosie snapped, thinking she had nothing more to say, and turned to walk away.


    Brenna swiftly stepped in her path to stop her. ¡°Apologize! You have belittled everyone¡ªwhen you were at the Harper estate, you constantly berated the staff; at yourpany, you humiliate your employees daily. They¡¯re on your payroll, so we can¡¯t intervene. But Lilith hasn¡¯t wronged you, yet you insulted her today. Apologize, or you¡¯re not leaving.¡±


    Rosie fumed, noticing the crowd¡¯s judgmental stares, which resurfaced memories she had tried to suppress. But she still didn¡¯t want to apologize to someone she viewed as inferior. ¡°What¡¯s your problem? Was I wrong? She and¡ª¡±


    Before she could finish, Brenna pped her without hesitation. ¡°As long as Ernst and his parents approve of her, that¡¯s enough. Ernst¡¯s choice to marry her doesn¡¯t need your blessing or anyone else¡¯s. You¡¯re irrelevant to us. Apologize. Now.¡±


    No one defended Rosie. The Harper family held immense sway in the region, and many in the crowd, often eager to win their favor, had endured Rosie¡¯s subtle slights before. They relished seeing her humbled.


    ¡°Get on with it,¡± Brenna demanded.


    ¡°And what if I refuse?¡± Rosie asked.


    ¡°Then the Harper Group and the Mitchell Group will sever all ties with you and Maxley,¡± Brenna said, knowing Rosie¡¯s overseas ventures couldn¡¯t survive abined boycott from both groups.


    Rosie caved. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I shouldn¡¯t have said those things. I have no ce meddling in Miss Richardson¡¯s rtionship with Ernst.¡± With that, she left.


    Ernst and Ethan approached, having witnessed Brenna¡¯s defense of Lilith. Ernst took Lilith¡¯s hand and then turned to Brenna. ¡°Brenna, thank you for standing up for Lilith today.¡±


    The donation ceremonymenced, with Shirie¡¯s four major families making substantial pledges. Ethan led with a staggering five billion, followed by the Harper¡­


    The Group and the Russell Corporation pledged one billion each, while the Wagner Group contributed one hundred million.


    Later, Ethan stepped out of the restroom and lit a cigarette in the lounge, gazing at the night through the window. The sound of high heels approached.


    Assuming it was someone seeking a quiet moment, he didn¡¯t turn.


    ¡°Ethan¡­¡± a sweet, familiar female voice called out.


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 Chapter 767

    ?Chapter 767:


    Ethan¡¯s brow furrowed, irritated that he couldn¡¯t even smoke in peace. These women were relentless. Didn¡¯t they notice he had arrived with Brenna? He was already in a rtionship! Yet, they seemed oblivious to that.


    Brenna stayedpletely engrossed in Dalton¡¯s performance on the stage, oblivious to the fact that Tina was hovering near Ethan, trying to catch his attention.


    Ethan got along well with Jayceon, but his ties to the rest of the Russell family were distant at best. He offered them nothing beyond polite recognition. When his eyesnded on Tina, they held nothing but frost, and his words cut sharper than his stare.


    ¡°I have nothing to say to you.¡±


    Tina thought Ethan looked incredibly handsome standing by the window. He was the ideal man of her dreams.


    He had the kind of physique that turned heads: wide shoulders tapering into a lean frame, his height lending him an air of authority. There was a quiet power in the way he carried himself, and his face was even more striking than Dalton¡¯s. Just standing there, he could captivate an entire crowd.


    Even the way he held a cigarette had its own kind of allure, and Tina found herself utterly spellbound. She kept staring at Ethan, too entranced to remember the heartfelt confession of love she had prepared.


    Not wanting to even breathe the same air as her, Ethan crushed the cigarette beneath his shoe and turned on his heel without a second nce.


    ¡°I love you!¡± Tina blurted out, running after him and flinging her arms around his waist in a desperate embrace.


    Ethan¡¯s expression froze over. He peeled her hands off without hesitation and shoved her aside, sending her to the floor.


    He caught sight of Rosie snapping photos with her phone. His scowl deepened. He marched over, grabbed the device from her hand, and shattered it against the floor.


    ???§ÁE ??P?¦«T¦®? I§ª G¦«?§ª?V¦®??.???


    ¡°Ethan, I didn¡¯t mean to¡­¡± Rosie tried to justify herself, but Ethan didn¡¯t pause or turn back.


    Rosie approached Tina, helping her stand up.


    ¡°I told you it wouldn¡¯t work, but you just had to try it.¡±


    Tina sighed, frustration creeping in.


    ¡°How would I know if I didn¡¯t try? I even considered stripping in front of him, but I was too dazed to remember to do that.¡±


    Her voice dropped with frustration.


    ¡°I was one move away from getting what I wanted. Why is Ethan so immune to women¡¯s charms? Is my figure not good enough? He didn¡¯t even spare me a nce.¡±


    She wore a strapless dress that entuated every curve, but Ethan hadn¡¯t looked her way, not even once.


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 Chapter 768

    ?Chapter 768:


    ¡°Back outside, I was standing inches from him, and still, he kept dodging me. It¡¯s maddening. Do I really repulse him that much?¡±


    Rosie led her to the couch. ¡°I warned you. He¡¯s not like other men, but you had to go and test your luck.¡±


    ¡°Enough. I don¡¯t regret trying. How else would I know it wouldn¡¯t work?¡± Just then, a new thought struck Tina. ¡°What if I applied to be a secretary at the Mitchell Group?¡±


    Rosie rolled her eyes. ¡°Forget it. I¡¯ve been to the Mitchell Group headquarters. Every secretary there is drop-dead gorgeous and very capable, and he hasn¡¯t shown a shred of interest in any of them.¡±


    She bent down to pick up her phone, hoping that maybe the data could still be salvaged and the photos she had taken mighte in handy.


    But when she reached for the chip, someone took it before her, along with the SIM card.


    It was Neville. He stood there, a smug look tugging at his lips. ¡°Anything you think of, Mr. Mitchell already expects.¡±


    He had just returned from the restroom when he caught Rosie snapping photos of Ethan. Without missing a beat, he had taken photos of her too.


    If she nned to use the photos she had taken for ckmail, then so could he. Did she really believe she could outy Mr. Mitchell?


    Rosie approached him, grabbing at his sleeve. ¡°Give them back! They are mine!¡±


    Neville said nothing. He quickly walked into the restroom and calmly flushed both the chip and SIM card away.


    All Rosie could do was stomp her foot in helpless fury.


    Neville stayed silent, shooting her a look of disdain.


    Don¡¯t miss out g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í??ls?c?m


    Outside, Dalton had wrapped up his performance and stepped forward to hand over a donation check, personally delivering it to the event staff.


    Brenna made her way to him. ¡°You were amazing. I had no idea you could sing so well.¡±


    Dalton¡¯s grin stretched wide. ¡°I¡¯m a professional. Otherwise, how would I pull off a concert?¡±


    Brenna smiled warmly. ¡°When your concert happens, I¡¯ll make sure to bring you flowers.¡±


    The charity g drew to a close, and the Harper family had tacitly epted that Ethan and Brenna¡¯s rtionship was back to normal. Ethan opened the passenger door for Brenna and let her get in.


    From her own vehicle, Tina watched them, her fingers digging into the car door as a storm brewed behind her eyes.


    What was so special about Brenna?


    The Harper family had cut Rosie off just to protect Brenna, and Ethan had even shed with his own family for her. What did Brenna have that the rest of them didn¡¯t?


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 Chapter 769

    ?Chapter 769:


    Only after Ethan¡¯s car disappeared into the distance did Tina finally slide into her seat.


    She wasn¡¯t ready to let go of Ethan. Not yet.


    But right now, she didn¡¯t have a move to y. If Rosie, who had more advantages and a stronger connection with Ethan, couldn¡¯t win his heart, what chance did she have?


    Still, she refused to give up.


    Why should she?


    She couldn¡¯t understand what Ethan saw in Brenna.


    Was it Brenna¡¯s beauty?


    Tina nced down at her own figure. She knew she turned heads¡ªevery man at the g had looked at her. Everyone except Ethan. He acted like she didn¡¯t even exist.


    ¡°What do you think, love? Isn¡¯t my n genius?¡± Rosie cozied up to Maxley, her face lit with a fawning grin.


    Maxley¡¯s hand grazed her corbone before he leaned in, kissing her deeply, his expression one of pure contentment. ¡°It¡¯s perfect. You¡¯re my lucky star. Since we tied the knot, everything¡¯s fallen into ce. Even my so-called brother nearlynded behind bars. It¡¯s all thanks to you.¡±


    Rosie¡¯sugh was charming. ¡°Then you¡¯d better heed my advice more. I¡¯ll make sure you im that crown.¡±


    Maxley nodded, his eyes tracking Ethan¡¯s car as it blended into the flow of traffic and disappeared.


    ¡°But what about Denis¡­¡± Maxley¡¯s voice carried a hint of unease. ¡°He hasn¡¯t fullymitted to us yet.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t everything going ording to n? Rx, I¡¯ve got it handled. The Harper Group and the Mitchell Group will be ours sooner orter,¡± Rosie assured him, brimming with confidence.


    L??t??st ch??pt??rs in g¦Ál??ovels.c?m


    At the start of the workweek, Brenna stepped into her office to find that Lorna had already spruced up the space. On her desk sat four cans of Heteron coffee beans, the same brand her friend always sent her.


    Lorna greeted her with a bright smile. ¡°Brenna, the coffee beans arrived¡ªten cans this time. As you asked, six are for you, and four are for Mr. Mitchell. Want to drop them off yourself, or should I handle it?¡±


    Usually, Lorna wouldn¡¯t bother Brenna with such tasks, but she figured Brenna might want a reason to swing by the top floor and see Ethan.


    Brenna¡¯s lips curved slightly at the sight of the familiar packaging. ¡°I have a lot to do this morning. I¡¯ve got a meeting with the robotic arm manufacturer to prep for. Could you take them to the top floor for me? Just hand them to ni or Neville.¡±


    ¡°No problem; I¡¯ll head up soon,¡± Lorna replied. She returned shortly with a tote bag, packed the four cans inside, and set off.


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 Chapter 770

    Chapter 770:


    Greta had been eyeing those coffee cans for a while. She knew Brenna always drank this brand of coffee, and back before they had moved to the Mitchell Group¡¯s headquarters, Brenna had once personally delivered these beans to Ethan.


    She saw this as a rare opportunity to get close to Ethan.


    ¡°Lorna!¡± Greta called out softly, clutching a document as she approached with a warm smile. ¡°I¡¯m heading to the top floor. Let me drop those off for you; you don¡¯t need to make the trip.¡±


    Lorna nced at the tote bag. She had plenty to prep for Brenna¡¯s client meeting and was pressed for time.


    ¡°Thanks, that¡¯s a big help,¡± she said, handing the bag to Greta.


    Greta took it with a casual nod. ¡°Happy to help.¡±


    Seeing no hint of suspicion from Lorna, she made a beeline for the elevator.


    Inside, she lifted each can, tracing her fingers over them, savoring the moment. Knowing Ethan would soon touch them made her feel like they were sharing an intimate connection. The thought thrilled her.


    She reached the top floor soon and stepped out to find the secretarial team already busy at their desks.


    She only knew Neville, Rex, and ni, but Neville and Rex weren¡¯t around.


    ni sat at the outermost desk, engrossed in her work.


    Greta approached. ¡°ni, is Mr. Mitchell in?¡±


    She raised the tote bag slightly. ¡°Brenna asked me to personally deliver these coffee beans to him.¡±


    ni nced at the bag, offering a polite smile, though she found it odd. Normally, anything from Brenna¡¯s team went to the secretarial department, not straight to Ethan. Coffee beans, especially¡ªEthan wouldn¡¯t grind them himself. If Brenna sent beans, they would go to her, and she usually brewed the coffee for Ethan.


    Still, ni didn¡¯t question it. ¡°Mr. Mitchell is at a branch office this morning and won¡¯t be at headquarters. Why don¡¯t you leave them with me? I¡¯ll make sure he gets them when he¡¯s back.¡±


    gal¦Ç¦Ò¦Íe?s.c?m is your update source


    Greta¡¯s heart sank. She stole a nce at ni¡¯s notebook, hoping for a clue about Ethan¡¯s schedule, but found nothing.


    ¡°Alright then,¡± she said, handing over the bag before turning to leave. The opportunity to get close to Ethan had slipped through her fingers.


    What a pity.


    Back at her desk, Greta pulled out her phone and began to search online for the coffee beans, determined to buy some and deliver them to Ethan herself next time.


    She tried an image search, but she couldn¡¯t find anything.


    Frustration simmering, she nced toward Brenna¡¯s office, itching to ask her where the beans came from, but knowing she couldn¡¯t.


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    .<hr>


    Message from Noah: Sorry for beingte, triple chapters to make up for it dear ones. God loves you and Noah whishes you all the best. (?O?=)? ?


    .


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 771

    ?Chapter 771:


    A gentle tapping echoed through the room. After knocking, Thiago stepped inside without waiting for a reply.


    Brenna lifted her eyes from the documents she¡¯d been poring over and sighed softly, setting them aside. ¡°You finally remembered you have a job here, huh? I¡¯ve barely had a chance to breathe the past month. Endless meetings, countless negotiations¡­ Honestly, I am exhausted.¡±


    Turning back toward the doorway, Thiago motioned for Lorna toe inside and passed her two hefty gift bags. ¡°Pass these around¡ªgifts for the staff. Tonight¡¯s dinner is on me; it¡¯s time we celebrated properly.¡±


    Thrilled by his generosity, Lorna eagerly grabbed the bags and hurried into the hallway, calling out enthusiastically, ¡°Everyone! Thiago brought gifts for all of us;e quick and grab yours!¡±


    The employees rushed over, first congratting Thiago in Brenna¡¯s office, then heading to collect their gifts.


    Each employee was handed an elegant square box, carefully wrapped in luxurious crimson paper and neatly finished with a silky ribbon bow.


    ¡°Oh, no way¡ªit¡¯s MLG chocte!¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s even a limited edition perfume!¡±


    ¡°Thanks, Thiago!¡±


    ¡°Congrattions! Wishing you all the happiness!¡±


    The workce buzzed with excited chatter, everyone utterly delighted with Thiago¡¯s generosity. Each gift was luxurious¡ªjust the choctes alone cost thousands, andbined with the exclusive fragrance, every gift easily exceeded five thousand dors.


    There was no denying how extravagant these gifts were.


    Joyful messages flooded thepany¡¯s group chat, each one eagerly expressing congrattions for Thiago¡¯s marriage.


    Smiling contentedly, Thiago turned back toward Brenna. ¡°You¡¯ve put in a lot of hourstely. Come out tonight, rx, and celebrate with us.¡±


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    ¡°Of course. I wouldn¡¯t want to miss it,¡± Brenna replied.


    ¡°I heard Jayceon was attacked; someone nearly killed him?¡± The conversation drifted on for a bit before Thiago finally brought up what was really on his mind. ¡°Word is, it was his older brother who did it¡ªsomething about a fight over the family¡­¡±


    ¡°Inheritance.¡±


    Brenna nced at Thiago. He was seemingly displeased about the fact that Ellie had been involved with Jayceon before, and they had a child together.


    Since Thiago had questions and a tangle of feelings about Jayceon, Brenna decided to pass along what Ethan had told her.


    ¡°Jayceon¡¯s injuries were serious¡ªa car ident left him with severe head trauma and a dangerous blood clot. He¡¯s nowhere near recovered yet. Ethan¡¯s been stepping in to manage things for him temporarily. Apparently, Jayceon¡¯s father has been frantically calling around, desperate for specialized medication to save him.¡±


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 Chapter 772

    ?Chapter 772:


    ¡°It¡¯s shocking he¡¯s still alive after everything he has done.¡± Thiago¡¯s voice turned cold. He looked at Brenna. ¡°You sold the medicine to him?¡±


    Brenna met his stare evenly, nodding. ¡°Ethan personally requested it; I couldn¡¯t really refuse.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not ming you for that; I just believe he has earned every bit of suffering he¡¯s facing,¡± Thiago muttered under his breath, his expression darkening. Deep down, he couldn¡¯t help but worry¡ªwould Ellie be upset when she heard what had happened to Jayceon?


    At the Moore family home, Patrick trailed Ellie as she stepped inside, her arms loaded with bags.


    Jayceon¡¯s generosity had allowed Leif, Tori, and Hank to move into an elegant, spacious home situated in an upscale district. Privately, Leif and Tori had looked into the property¡¯s cost, discovering the shocking price of forty thousand dors per square meter, reflecting its prime school zoning and prestigious neighborhood.


    They estimated the entire ce,plete with luxurious renovations, was easily valued at ten million dors.


    When Ellie had rejected Jayceon and married Thiago, Leif and Tori had erupted with outrage and attempted repeatedly to sway her decision, but Ellie had held firm.


    Now, guilt gued them constantly, considering howvishly Jayceon had provided for their family, including this beautiful home, Hank¡¯s fully furnished wedding house, and the generous money they had received.


    Wasn¡¯t it terribly ungrateful of Ellie to turn Jayceon down after everything? Recently, they had grown deeply remorseful, feeling they had truly let Jayceon down.


    ¡°Hi there, Grandma! Grandpa!¡± Patrick called cheerfully.


    ¡°Dad, Mom, I got you both something,¡± Ellie said as she set the bags down on the coffee table. ¡°Go ahead and divide them yourselves. Everything in there is for you.¡±


    Tori eyed the shiny packaging skeptically before opening one to reveal a fancy bottle of perfume. She frowned, cing it aside immediately, convinced such things weren¡¯t suitable for someone her age, believing that perfume was meant for young women to seduce men.


    ¡°What made you waste money on things like this? Perfume is for younger people, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    Ellie had anticipated Tori¡¯s displeasure and patiently exined, ¡°Mom, this perfume is specially picked for you, and there¡¯s one for Dad as well. Perfume isn¡¯t just for young people; lots of high-societydies and foreigners regrly use high-quality scents. Brenna¡¯s mother wears expensive perfume daily. There¡¯s no harm in trying something nice.¡±


    Tori waved off the suggestion stubbornly. ¡°I have no use for this stuff. Hank can take it and give it to his girlfriend.¡±


    Another box caught Tori¡¯s interest¡ªa beautifully patterned Hermes scarf, which she immediately draped around her neck. ¡°Oh, now this is quite lovely.¡± She also liked the new dress and stylish hat Ellie had chosen.


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 Chapter 773

    ?Chapter 773:


    Leif had already begun enjoying the fine wine Ellie had brought, having eagerly uncorked a bottle for himself.


    Tori settled herselffortably, then leaned toward Ellie. ¡°You were right not to marry Mr. Russell. Did you hear about that awful car ident? He nearly died.¡±


    Ellie¡¯s expression shifted in an instant. Though her romantic feelings for Jayceon had long faded, their years together and their shared child tethered her to him. News of his ident sparked a flicker of worry in her chest.


    ¡°What happened?¡± Ellie asked, her voiceced with concern. ¡°He¡¯s always got bodyguards with him. How could something bad happen to him?¡±


    Tori shook her head. ¡°Who knows? I¡¯m not sure about the details. I visited him once after hearing about the car crash. After all, let¡¯s be real¡ªhe got us a house, a car, and cash. We can¡¯t just turn our backs. You wouldn¡¯t believe how rough he looked. He was in the intensive care unit, wrapped in bandages, with tubes everywhere. He was in aa for several days. The doctor said he hit his head¡ªnearly didn¡¯t make it.¡±


    Ellie¡¯s brow furrowed as she gripped Tori¡¯s arm. ¡°And now? How¡¯s he doing now?¡±


    Tori shot her daughter an exasperated look. ¡°Look at you, so worried about him. Don¡¯t forget you¡¯re married to someone else now. If you¡¯re this hung up on your ex, Thiago might not take it well.¡±


    ¡°I get it; I just want to know if he¡¯s okay. Tell me already.¡± Ellie nced at Patrick, who hadn¡¯t breathed a word about this to her since she had been back.


    Tori sighed. ¡°He¡¯s awake and out of danger now. I heard they used some fancy drug; it cost a fortune. One pill could buy a house. Rich folks can buy their way out of anything, even death. If it were us, we would be done for.¡±


    Ellie let out a sigh of relief. ¡°Good, as long as he¡¯s alright.¡±


    Tori stood up. ¡°I¡¯m off to grab groceries and whip up some food for you.¡±


    L¦Á¦Ó??¦Ó ?§ß¦Á¦Ñ¦Ó?rs ¦Én g??l??ov?l??.??om


    Patrick¡¯s face fell. Tori¡¯s cooking skills were bad, and she always made the same dishes when he visited her.


    He opened his mouth to protest when Ellie interjected, ¡°Did you go see your dad while I was away?¡±


    Patrick nodded. ¡°Yeah, twice. He could barely talk and looked really pitiful. I even helped feed him.¡±


    Ellie tapped his forehead. ¡°Something this major happened, and you didn¡¯t even tell me? Come on, we¡¯re going to see him now.¡±


    ¡°Great! I don¡¯t have to eat the food Grandma cooks now,¡± Patrick said.


    Ellie grabbed her son¡¯s hand and headed for the door. ¡°Mom, don¡¯t worry about cooking. We¡¯re leaving,¡± she said to Tori.


    As Ellie and Patrick descended the stairs, Ellie dialed Brenna. ¡°Can youe with me to visit Jayceon?¡±


    Brenna, having just bid farewell to Thiago and preparing for a client appointment, hesitated. She was busy now, but Ellie seldom reached out for help; she didn¡¯t want to refuse her.


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 Chapter 774

    ?Chapter 774:


    ¡°Alright, but I need to sort a few things first,¡± she replied.


    After the call, Brenna entrusted the client meeting arrangements to Tommy and Thiago.


    She then grabbed her purse and left for the hospital.


    Upon arriving, she found Ellie at the entrance of the inpatient ward, clutching a basket of fruit and a bouquet of flowers.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me Jayceon had been in an ident?¡± Ellie asked, her tone carrying a trace of frustration.


    Brenna shrugged. ¡°What would telling you have changed? Would you have rushed back from your honeymoon and risked upsetting Thiago? There was no point in telling you. He¡¯s alive, and after all the hurt he caused you, a bit of suffering seems fair.¡±


    Ellie¡¯s concern faded at her friend¡¯s candid words. ¡°You¡¯re probably right. I shouldn¡¯t worry about him so much. But since Patrick is his son, I feel I should at least visit him. Just don¡¯t mention this to Thiago.¡±


    Brennaughed lightly. ¡°My lips are sealed.¡±


    Patrick, tugging at their sleeves, looked up with concern. ¡°Isn¡¯t this a little dishonest? What if Thiago asks me about this? What am I supposed to say to him?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t breathe a word to him about this!¡± Ellie and Brenna said in unison.


    Despite having heard about Jayceon¡¯s severe injuries, Ellie was still shocked when she saw him.


    In the hospital room, Jayceony frail, his head shaved, a shadow of the charismatic man he once had been. His legs were immobilized in casts, and he gazed curiously toward the door. Fay sat beside him, spoon-feeding him.


    On the opposite side of the room stood Ethan and Tina.


    Ellie felt a pang of sympathy; Jayceon was indeed in a bad state.


    g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í???s is your story source


    Brenna scrutinized Jayceon. His face showed no signs of neurological damage, suggesting his head was likely fine.


    Jayceon¡¯s expression hardened when he saw Ellie. ¡°Why are you here?¡± he asked. Once a striking figure, he now felt exposed in his weakened state, suspecting Ellie might be here to mock him.


    ¡°I just wanted to see how you¡¯re doing,¡± Ellie said. She set the fruit basket and flowers on a nearby table and approached his bed. ¡°How did this happen?¡±


    Ethan stepped forward, wrapping an arm around Brenna¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Let¡¯s give them a moment,¡± he said, guiding her out.


    Tina, visibly displeased, red at Brenna. She resented how Ethan¡¯s attention shifted whenever Brenna was near.


    She turned her frustration on Ellie. ¡°Seriously? When my brother was fighting for his life after the crash, you were nowhere to be found. Now that he¡¯s recovering, you show up.¡±


    Tina had never warmed up to Brenna or Ellie. Their sudden appearance felt like an intrusion thatpletely shattered her wellid ns. She had spent a great deal of effort figuring out how to get closer to Ethan, only to see her n fall apart because of them.


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 Chapter 775

    ?Chapter 775:


    Tina and Jayceon didn¡¯t share the same mother. When Jayceon was in a car crash, she showed up at the hospital the day it happened, then never returned. They were only half-siblings, and on top of that, Jayceon was her rival when it came to the family inheritance. She would be d to see him gone.


    She had overheard her father saying that Ethan was now handling Jayceon¡¯s business and frequently visited him to help with work matters. That prompted her to find an excuse to visit Jayceon recently.


    She had even slipped money to the guards, telling them to inform her the moment Ethan showed up. Today, she had just arrived after getting the news when Brenna and Ellie came and ruined what should¡¯ve been her best shot at getting close to Ethan. She was angry.


    The rtionship between Jayceon and Ellie had been the talk of the town years ago. Back then, Tina had been just a teenager, but she remembered every detail clearly. The Russell family had fiercely opposed Jayceon¡¯s rtionship with Ellie, iming that the Moore family wasn¡¯t worthy of them.


    Now, Ellie no longer carried herself like a girl from a poor background, but that didn¡¯t change Tina¡¯s opinion of her. In her eyes, Ellie would always be someone beneath her.


    Tina said to Ellie, ¡°Let¡¯s not pretend here. Aren¡¯t you already married? What does my brother¡¯s ident have to do with you now? Since you have a husband, you shouldn¡¯t be chasing after my brother anymore. Are you trying to cheat on your husband?¡±


    Tina¡¯s dislike for Ellie made her words harsh.


    Brenna and the others were about to head out when they heard that and turned back around.


    Fay found herself agreeing with Tina. In her mind, Ellie had no business being here.


    She nced toward Ellie and said, ¡°Exactly. You¡¯re with Thiago now, and I¡¯m officially dating Jayceon. Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s out of line for you to show up here like this?¡±


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    From the very beginning, Fay had disliked Ellie. The first time sheid eyes on her, it became clear why Jayceon had chosen to date her. She looked a little like Ellie.


    Ellie felt a rush of frustration. She had shown up with good intentions, hoping to check in on Jayceon, but the way she was treated now made her regret evering here.


    Her eyes shifted toward Jayceon.


    Jayceon didn¡¯t stay silent. He looked at Fay and Tina and scolded them sharply, ¡°You two need to stay out of this. Yes, Ellie and I have a history, but that¡¯s over. She¡¯s here today with my son to visit me. Nothing more. Stop twisting it into something else.¡±


    Fay didn¡¯t like what she heard, but she kept her mouth shut. Jayceon¡¯s wealth was part of what drew her to him, and she wasn¡¯t about to risk losing that.


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 Chapter 776

    ?Chapter 776:


    A pout crossed her lips as she stomped her foot, clearly angry.


    Tina tried to cover her intentions by pretending to be concerned about Jayceon. ¡°Jayceon, you¡¯re really still defending her? Tell me we¡¯re wrong. Is she really worth defending? Have you forgotten what she did to you? You bought homes for her parents and her brother and gave her son more than enough money to livefortably, but she still wouldn¡¯t marry you. She left you looking like a fool.¡±


    Her voice hardened as she added, ¡°A woman like that should be shown the door every single time she appears near you.¡±


    Ellie¡¯s patience snapped. She believed she shouldn¡¯t havee here in the first ce.


    Her voice trembled with anger. ¡°Enough. I was only concerned for Patrick¡¯s dad. I wasn¡¯t here trying to bring up the past. Jayceon, take good care of yourself. Goodbye.¡±


    Fay¡¯s satisfaction was instant as she walked back to the bed and resumed feeding Jayceon.


    ¡°I¡¯m done eating!¡± Jayceon shouted, his voice rising with frustration. He had barely said a few words before those two managed to drive Ellie away.


    He knew Ellie already had little patience for him, and now, whatever tolerance she had left for him was probably gone. From now on, they couldn¡¯t even be friends.


    ¡°Ellie, don¡¯t leave. There¡¯s something I need to tell you,¡± Jayceon said, trying to make Ellie stay.


    By now, Ellie hadposed herself. ¡°You should focus on resting. I¡¯ll make sure Patrick visits you regrly.¡±


    Ethan had no desire to linger and be harassed by Tina. ¡°I¡¯m leaving, too. I¡¯lle by again tomorrow,¡± he said.


    He turned and left the room with Brenna beside him.


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    ¡°Wait!¡± Tina rushed forward and grabbed the edge of Ethan¡¯s sleeve. ¡°You haven¡¯t gone through my brother¡¯spany¡¯s documents yet. He¡¯s too sick to handle things, and someone needs to help him manage hispany.¡±


    The irritation in Ethan¡¯s eyes was clear as he answered coldly, ¡°There are two vice presidents; they are running hispany just fine.¡±


    With that, he pulled his arm free from her grip and walked away with Brenna. Ellie followed with Patrick, who paused at the door to give his dad a quick wave before heading out.


    ¡°I should have listened to my mom and note to visit him.¡± Once they were outside, Ellie turned to Brenna with a frown. ¡°All I wanted was to check on him since he is Patrick¡¯s father. I wasn¡¯t here to get back together with him. I didn¡¯t think they¡¯d twist it like that. It¡¯s maddening.¡±


    Ethan didn¡¯t hold any special fondness for Ellie and, in truth, disliked her slightly. She had turned down his best friend, after all. Still, he wasn¡¯t the type to be unreasonable. He kept those feelings to himself and didn¡¯t say anything.


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 Chapter 777

    ?Chapter 777:


    As the group stepped out of the elevator, Ethan saw Elsa, Kenny, and Minna emerging together from a nearby consultation room.


    Brenna wanted to point out that Ellie wasn¡¯t entirely indifferent to Jayceon; a small corner of her heart still held space for him. Otherwise, Ellie wouldn¡¯t have rushed to see him so recklessly, brushing off her mother¡¯s advice entirely.


    Ethan stared at the entrance of the consulting room, silently guessing who might be visiting the doctor. Was it Kenny? Unlikely, as Kenny was a pilot with excellent health and rarely fell ill.


    Minna? That also seemed unlikely. If Minna were unwell, her family would probably be by her side. After a moment¡¯s thought, Ethan deduced it was Elsa who was unwell.


    Without pausing, he strode toward the main door. Then, he stopped as Neville caught up with him.


    Ethan said to him, ¡°Go see how my mother¡¯s doing.¡±


    Neville nodded and departed.


    Brenna said to Ethan, ¡°If you¡¯re concerned, just check on her. She may oppose us being together and be stubborn, but she¡¯s still your mother. It¡¯s wise to avoid letting your rtionship go too strained.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s face stayed impassive, his tone icy. ¡°No. I know her too well. The second I show any warmth toward her, she will try to control every aspect of my life, dictating my choices. I¡¯ve been under my parents¡¯ grip since childhood. Now, I would rather maintain this distance from them; we could stay out of each other¡¯s way. It¡¯s better like this.¡±


    Brenna gave a subtle nod, understanding him. She knew only fragments of Ethan¡¯s past and had no desire to meddle in his decisions.


    ¡°You can do what feels right.¡± Unlike Ethan¡¯s mother, Brenna had no urge to control him. She valued giving him room to breathe, just like he did for her.


    ¡°Ethan!¡± Kenny¡¯s voice cut through the air abruptly, and in moments, he approached Ethan and Brenna, followed by Minna and Elsa.


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    Minna steadied Elsa, speaking to her softly. ¡°When we¡¯re home, focus on resting. Put school aside for now; your healthes first. It¡¯s not like the family is strapped for funds.¡±


    Elsa was fond of Minna. Though Minna couldn¡¯t be Ethan¡¯s wife, Elsa was content with her being Kenny¡¯s wife.


    ¡°You¡¯ve been so caring to me, staying by my side through all this,¡± Elsa said.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing. This is what family does,¡± Minna replied warmly.


    She looked up, catching the tense, hostile stares Kenny and Ethan were exchanging.


    She felt a bit awkward, so she stopped a few steps away from them.


    When her eyesnded on Brenna, her expression soured with resentment. She silently fumed, thinking Brenna had no shame. Why did Brenna have topete with her for Ethan?


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 Chapter 778

    ?Chapter 778:


    Given Brenna¡¯s wealth and status, couldn¡¯t she secure a good match with any elite family? Why fixate on Ethan? Though Kenny looked identical to Ethan since he was his twin brother, their financial status was worlds apart.


    Ethan was the wealthiest man in the world. But Kenny probably didn¡¯t even have a million dors.


    Lately, as they searched for a home after their marriage, Minna noticed that Kenny couldn¡¯t afford one, leaning on his parents for financial support. Kenny was a man of pride; even though he couldn¡¯t afford to buy a house himself, he refused to ask Ethan for help.


    Minna guessed that Ethan must have many properties.


    The chasm between the twins was vast.


    Minna actually wanted to marry Ethan more.


    ¡°Are you even aware that Mom¡¯s ill? She was hospitalizedst time for high blood pressure, and you didn¡¯t bother showing up. All her years of love and effort, thrown away on you! Have you no heart?¡± Kenny snapped at Ethan.


    Ethan¡¯s face stayed cold. ¡°Isn¡¯t she in your care? Mom has paved the way for your every sess since we were kids. Isn¡¯t it your job to look after her? She never liked me. If I visited her, she would only resent me more. Besides, I¡¯m too busy. Where would I find time for such caregiving?¡±


    ¡°How can you be so cold?¡± Kenny¡¯s fists tightened. ¡°You always made Mom angry when you were young, and you¡¯re still so stubborn now. Her health¡¯s failing. Can¡¯t you show some concern for her? Are you trying to drive her to her¡ª¡±


    Elsa moved to speak, but Minna gently held her back. ¡°The doctor warned that your blood pressure has only just stabilized. Getting worked up could cause a stroke.¡±


    Minna¡¯s gaze darkened as she nced at Ethan, subtly hinting at Elsa¡¯s fragile state, hoping he would soften toward his mother.


    Ethan met Elsa¡¯s eyes. ¡°Haven¡¯t you already recovered? If you need better care, I can contact a top hospital abroad. I know a doctor who is highly skilled in treating hypertension.¡±


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    ¡°Save your hollow concern. I¡¯d rather die than be indebted to you!¡± Elsa snapped.


    Elsa¡¯s chest rose and fell sharply, her breathing uneven as her eyes filled with unshed tears. A breakdown felt dangerously close. The son she had cherished since childhood, the one she had poured all her hopes into, was now treating her like a stranger because of a woman. How could Ethan turn his back on her sopletely? It felt like every year she had spent raising him had been pointless. She had protected him, worried for him, and fought to clear his path, just so he could seed. And this was the thanks she got?


    It wasn¡¯t just that he refused to listen to her; he even sided with an outsider to go against her. Ethan had always been hard-headed, a son who challenged her constantly. For years, she had lived with the fear that he might make a wrong turn. She had stayed close and guided him constantly. Yet now, their mother-son rtionship had deteriorated to the point of open hostility.


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 Chapter 779

    ?Chapter 779:


    Everything she had done, every sacrifice, was dismissed as nothing more than unwee interference.


    The look in Ethan¡¯s eyes¡ªcold and detached¡ªcut deep into her. It felt like every ounce of love and care she had given him had be a burden to him.


    ¡°Don¡¯t call me Mom,¡± Elsa said, her voice tight with anger. ¡°I don¡¯t have a son who treats me like this.¡±


    She then nced at Brenna, her re full of venom, her expression clouded with hatred.


    Brenna didn¡¯t want things to be this tense, either. She had no desire to be at odds with Elsa. But the older woman was difficult, and she had never expected to change her. She didn¡¯t hope for affection or closeness. If they could simply avoid more arguments, that would be enough.


    Right then, Brenna knew she had to step away from the standoff between Ethan and Elsa. She lifted her eyes to Ethan and said softly, ¡°You two talk. I¡¯ll leave now.¡±


    Ethan responded with a small nod and gave her a reassuring smile.


    To Elsa, Ethan¡¯s warm smile to Brenna felt like a blow. All those years of raising him meant nothing; he now treated an outsider with more kindness than he ever showed her.


    She let out a sharp breath, and her head began to spin. Her body wobbled, unsteady.


    Kenny and Minna rushed toward her, worry etched across their faces. Minna, especially, looked shaken, her anger ring as she stared at Ethan.


    ¡°Ethan, she¡¯s the one who brought you into this world. How can you just turn your back on her like this?¡± Minna said, her voice shaking as frustration edged into every word.


    She believed Ethan had it all¡ªthe looks, the money, the power¡ªbut he had a bad rtionship with his family.


    She couldn¡¯t understand it. Elsa was his mother, the woman who carried him, raised him, and gave him everything he had. How could he be so cold to her?


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    Was he truly prepared to cut off his own mother just for his girlfriend? How could someone who treated his mother so harshly be capable of loving anyone else?


    Minna couldn¡¯t stop the wave of disappointment toward Ethan rising in her chest.


    Ethan¡¯s eyes grew cold as he turned to face Minna. The chill in his stare was so intense that Minna instinctively stepped back, gripping Elsa¡¯s sleeve.


    She felt that Ethan¡¯s stare even carried a murderous intent.


    Kenny saw what was happening, and his temper red even more. He stepped forward and closed the distance between Ethan and him. ¡°What¡¯s with that re? Are you trying to scare her now? Is what she said wrong? I think you¡¯ve lost all your conscience. If it weren¡¯t for Mom and Dad, do you honestly think you¡¯d be standing where you are today? Do you have any idea how much they sacrificed to make you seed? And this is how you repay them? Apologize to Mom right now!¡±


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 Chapter 780

    ?Chapter 780:


    Ethan¡¯s voice came out steady. ¡°I¡¯ve built apany worth billions. Do you seriously believe their connections were the key to that? I¡¯ve used my wealth to open doors for them, too. Do you think their recent promotions just happened by chance?¡±


    Kenny¡¯s brow tightened, his doubt written all over his face. ¡°I don¡¯t buy that. With Dad, Mom, Grandpa, and all our uncles in the military, our family already has much power there. You think our parents need your help? Stop trying to take credit for everything.¡±


    The Mitchell family might not hold the kind of wealth Ethan had gathered, but their influence in the military was impossible to deny.


    Elsa¡¯s skin had turned ghostly pale as she leaned more heavily against Minna. Her eyes remained shut, and the pain pulsing through her body made her feel really bad.


    ¡°Are you alright?¡± Minna asked, her voiceced with concern. Elsa¡¯s full weight pressed against her, and it quickly became clear that something was wrong. Kenny spun around to check on his mother and was startled by her pale face. ¡°Mom! Mom!¡±


    Panic hit him hard. Just a few minutes ago, she had been perfectly fine. But after exchanging only a handful of words with Ethan, she was in a poor state. He shot Ethan a furious re and snapped, ¡°Every single time Mom sees you, something bad happens!¡±


    Once he had let his anger out, Kenny bent down, lifted Elsa onto his back, and rushed back to the hospital building.


    Ethan didn¡¯t follow. His face remained cold as he watched them disappear into the crowd. Without saying a word, he turned and walked in the opposite direction.


    While they made their way to the emergency room, Minna couldn¡¯t help but say, ¡°I swear, Brenna brings nothing but bad luck. Everywhere she goes, there¡¯s drama. We can¡¯t let Ethan marry her; someone like her shouldn¡¯t be part of the family.¡±


    Kenny wasn¡¯t fond of Minna, and he knew she had a thing for Ethan. The only reason he tolerated her presence was that he didn¡¯t want to cause more trouble. Herment didn¡¯t sit well with him. ¡°Whatever¡¯s going on with Ethan isn¡¯t our business,¡± he said.


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    Minna didn¡¯t like his response. ¡°You¡¯re his brother. Don¡¯t you think you should step in? He¡¯s always so stubborn, and now, look at this mess with the family. Why don¡¯t you try talking some sense into him? Honestly, I have no idea how someone with a temper like his managed to build a business empire.¡±


    Kenny¡¯s patience wore thin. He was almost certain Minna was using the situation as an excuse to stay involved with Ethan. ¡°This is a family matter. Stay out of it,¡± he replied bluntly.


    ¡°You can tell just by looking at Elsa; she is mean.¡± In the car, Ellie vented her frustration about Elsa. ¡°She might be a famous artist, but I¡¯ve disliked her since childhood. She clings to the pettiest grievances andshes out with that sharp tongue of hers. She is also very unreasonable.¡±


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 Chapter 781

    ?Chapter 781:


    She shifted her attention to Brenna, her tone softening. ¡°You, on the other hand, are nothing like that. You¡¯ve always been kind, even when the Barrett family treated you horribly. You never held a grudge. It¡¯s no wonder even Elsa¡¯s own son finds her difficult.¡±


    As Brenna drove, she replied, ¡°Yeah, Elsa is mean, but in Vand, people still think she¡¯s a good person. Just recently, the video of her stirring up trouble for me at school went viral. Everyone med me at first¡ªuntil Ethan had someone break it down frame by frame. That was when the truth came out. I didn¡¯t push Elsa. She fell on purpose. Only then did people start to see who she really was.¡±


    Ellie tilted her head. ¡°Ethan always defends you. He¡¯s clear-headed enough to see through her. Still, dealing with a mother-inw like that won¡¯t be easy for you.¡±


    She checked her phone and saw the time¡ªit was nearly noon. ¡°Let¡¯s grab something to eat,¡± she said.


    In the back seat, Patrick finally looked up from his game, his expression earnest. ¡°I want seafood. You and Dad ditched me for your honeymoon, so you owe me something tasty.¡±


    Ellie turned and gave him a yful look. ¡°Fine. I¡¯ll spoil you today.¡±


    The mention of food sparked another thought, and Patrick leaned closer to Ellie with hopeful eyes. ¡°Mommy, Brenna¡¯s chef makes the best food. Can we get our own chef, too? I¡¯m tired of eating bread every day.¡±


    Still focused on the road, Brenna couldn¡¯t help but chuckle. ¡°He¡¯s not wrong. After a month at my ce, he definitely put on a little weight. Thiago and you are both bad at cooking, so hiring a chef might actually be a smart move.¡±


    Ellie gave her son¡¯s cheek a yful pinch. ¡°All right, I¡¯ll do as you say. Once we¡¯re back, I¡¯ll have your dad hire a chef. Or maybe a nanny who can cook.¡±


    Patrick¡¯s face lit up as he nodded with excitement. ¡°Mommy, you¡¯re the best! I love you so much!¡±


    Her son¡¯s earlierint resurfaced in Ellie¡¯s mind, stirring a faint sense of displeasure. ¡°When did I ever make you live on bread every day? That¡¯s not fair. The way you say it, it sounds like I¡¯ve been mistreating you.¡±


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    Patrick made a face. ¡°But it¡¯s true! The food at Brenna¡¯s ce is what I call real food. You have no idea how good it is. Just for breakfast, there¡¯s a spread like a hotel breakfast buffet.¡±


    Ellie burst intoughter. ¡°Look at that. Just one month living with you, and he has already fallen in love with your ce. I¡¯ve raised him all these years, and I¡¯ve never heard him praise me like that.¡±


    That evening, when Brenna returned home, she noticed several invitation cardsid out on the coffee table in the living room. The staff at home appeared to be unusually busy.


    The Harper household frequently received event invitations, though Brenna rarely attended. Giselle usually took care of social obligations.


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 Chapter 782

    ?Chapter 782:


    Company affairs were typically handled by Shepard and Ernst, and Brenna usually didn¡¯t bother with business engagements.


    Brenna noticed the invitations were for the Wagner Group¡¯s centennial celebration and curiously picked one up to read.


    Her name had been printed on the invitation.


    Julia approached and took Brenna¡¯s purse. ¡°Miss Harper, would you like anything specific for dinner?¡±


    ¡°Anything is fine,¡± Brenna answered. She wasn¡¯t picky, and everything the chef made turned out great anyway.


    ¡°Mr. Ernst Harper is bringing his girlfriend over tonight,¡± Julia said. ¡°Mrs. Harper requested extra dishes and a full cleaning of the house. If there¡¯s nothing else you¡¯d like, I¡¯ll return to my work.¡±


    Brenna gave a small nod. The reason for the extra hustle around the house suddenly made sense¡ªLilith was going to join them for dinner.


    After changing into something morefortable, Brenna heard a car horn from the yard.


    She stepped outside and spotted Ernst arriving with Lilith.


    Shepard hade home early as well and also went out to greet Lilith with Giselle, smiling.


    Lilith felt a bit awkward with such a warm wee, something she wasn¡¯t quite used to. She quickly greeted Shepard, Giselle, and Brenna.


    Giselle took the gift bags from her hands and passed them to Julia, then gently ushered her into the house with a gracious smile.


    Knowing the Harper family held appearances in high regard, Lilith had spent a long time on her makeup, worried that they might judge her harshly. But seeing their friendly expressions eased her nerves a lot.


    Giselle led her to the sofa to sit down. ¡°It¡¯s just us here today; treat this ce like your home.¡±


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    Shepard said with easygoing charm, ¡°We¡¯ll be family soon. There¡¯s no need to act like a guest. I wasn¡¯t sure what you liked, so we had a bit of everything prepared. Next time, just tell Ernst what you want to eat.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Lilith had been worried that there were strict rules in rich families and that she would not be liked by Ernst¡¯s parents.


    To her surprise, however, they felt more down-to-earth than she had imagined, gradually putting her at ease.


    Dalton arrived just in time for dinner, stepping in with his usual effortless charm. ¡°Hey, Lilith,¡± Dalton said warmly, offering her a friendly smile. The sound of her name on his lips made Lilith a little uneasy, but there was no mistaking how wee she felt in the Harper household. Even someone like Dalton, a celebrity with a packed schedule, had cleared his calendar just toe meet her.


    Keeping it casual, Dalton wore a jacket that made him look more approachable than famous. From one of the pockets, he pulled out a neat stack of concert tickets and held them out to Lilith. ¡°I¡¯m performing at the city stadium the night after tomorrow. Bring a few friends if you¡¯re free.¡±


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 Chapter 783

    ?Chapter 783:


    Lilith had always been a fan of Dalton, and her eyes lit up as she took the tickets. She had been wondering how to ask him for a concert ticket and maybe even an autograph. But he had beaten her to it, handing them over without her needing to say a word.


    Brenna leaned closer to Dalton and held out her hand with a grin. ¡°Where¡¯s the autograph photo? Come on, hand it over.¡±


    Daltonughed, catching Lilith¡¯s hopeful nce. She didn¡¯t say anything, but he could tell she wanted one. ¡°Alright, alright. Let me run upstairs and grab a few.¡±


    Watching all this, Ernst couldn¡¯t hide the jealousy in his heart. His girlfriend was clearly a fan of his brother. ¡°So, who¡¯s better looking, me or Dalton?¡± he asked.


    Lilith turned to him with a sharp look. ¡°What do you think? He¡¯s a famous star. How could youpare?¡±


    Brenna rolled her eyes and gave Ernst a yful jab. ¡°You really are impossible sometimes. Ask something that makes sense, will you?¡±


    Dalton soon returned from upstairs, carrying several freshly signed photos. He offered them to Lilith with both hands. ¡°Here you go. I just signed them.¡±


    ¡°Thank you!¡± Lilith smiled as she carefully ced them inside her handbag.


    After all the teasing andughter, she finally started to feel at ease. Brenna sat beside her, and the two chattedfortably as the TV yed in the background.


    During dinner, Shepard, Giselle, and Ernst each shared the meal with Lilith on their social media ounts. A full family photo with Lilith made its way online as well.


    Brenna knew exactly what her parents were trying to do. Thisvish dinner wasn¡¯t just about food; it was also a statement. They were making it clear to everyone who had ever looked down on Lilith that she was now under their protection. Anyone who gave Lilith trouble from here on out would have to deal with the Harper family directly.


    Once dinner wrapped up, Lilith stayed for a little while longer before getting ready to leave.


    Giselle took out a check and handed it to her. ¡°Just a small wee gift from me. I wasn¡¯t sure what you liked, so I decided to let you pick something out for yourself with the money. And if this isn¡¯t enough,e back and ask me for more.¡±


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    Lilith looked at the check and tried to process the number. Seven zeroes stared back at her. Ten million?


    That was beyond generous; it felt excessive.


    ¡°No, really, this is too much!¡± Lilith said quickly, not out of politeness, but because it truly stunned her.


    Giselle gently pushed the check into her hands. ¡°It¡¯s not too much. Take it.¡±


    Brenna interjected, ¡°Just take it. It¡¯s only a small amount. If it were less, people would think we were being stingy. Don¡¯t even think about saving it for my parents or Ernst; just spend it!¡±


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 Chapter 784

    ?Chapter 784:


    After some persuading, Lilith finally epted the check.


    Later that evening, when Brenna headed upstairs and checked her social media post, she noticed it had racked up likes from Ethan, Ellie, Thiago, and several of her coworkers. Ethan had sent her a message.


    ¡°My grandfather¡¯s celebrating his birthday tomorrow. I want you to visit him with me.¡±


    ¡°Sure. What does he like? I¡¯ll bring him gifts,¡± Brenna replied.


    ¡°No need for that. I¡¯ve got it covered. If you still have that heart medicine of yours, bring that.¡±


    ¡°Got it. I still have a bit left,¡± Brenna replied, then immediately ced a call to Christopher to request some.


    Christopher didn¡¯t dare keep her waiting; he delivered the medicine to her soon. The next morning, Brenna headed to work as usual, nning to leave thepany around ten with Ethan to visit his grandfather.


    Thiago gave a quick knock before stepping into Brenna¡¯s office.


    ¡°All that attention just for a dinner weing Ernst¡¯s girlfriend? The photos of your family dining with her have been stered across every elite¡¯s social feed.¡±


    Brenna smiled and gestured for him to take a seat. ¡°You¡¯re missing the backstory. During that charity g, a few people looked down on Lilith. Some of the socialites mocked her, said she wasn¡¯t good enough for Ernst. Especially the ones who had their eye on him¡ªthey were the worst. We weren¡¯t going to let her be humiliated like that.¡±


    Thiago gave a thoughtful nod. ¡°Ah, I see.¡±


    From the hallway, Greta¡¯s voice floated in. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, good morning. Ms. Harper is talking to some man in her office now.¡±


    Her words made Thiago pause. The way she phrased the situation was odd.


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    Soon, Ethan stepped inside, dressed clean and sharp in a tailored suit. His mood was clearly upbeat as he nodded toward Thiago and sat down beside him.


    ¡°Congrattions on your wedding.¡±


    Thiago smiled politely. ¡°Thank you, Mr. Mitchell. You two heading out?¡±


    Ethan returned the smile with a nod. ¡°We are going to my grandfather¡¯s birthday party.¡±


    Rising from his chair, Thiago gave Brenna a nod. ¡°Then I won¡¯t hold you up. I¡¯ll take care of those smart prosthetic arm orders. Looks like you¡¯ve got your hands full.¡±


    Brenna gave him a grateful smile. ¡°Thanks.¡±


    In the underground parking lot, Neville approached Ethan and Brenna with several neatly wrapped boxes and quickly began loading them into the trunk.


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell, everything you requested is here,¡± he said.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± Ethan said as he held the car door open for Brenna, who stepped in and took her seat in the back.


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 Chapter 785

    ?Chapter 785:


    Neville moved into the driver¡¯s seat after Ethan had gotten in, turned the ignition, and began driving.


    Brenna reached into her bag and pulled out a smaller box that held ten Soothing Pills, each sealed in its own individual container.


    ¡°The main ingredient in the Soothing Pill is incredibly rare. Thest batch of Woodham that appeared at auction was used entirely for these pills, and even that batch wasn¡¯trge. A lot of people tried to buy it, and whenever the Pierce family ns to sell, they always check with me first. Now, these ten pills are all that¡¯s left, and they should be enough to support your grandfather¡¯splete recovery.¡±


    Brenna passed the box to Ethan, who nced at it briefly before cing it back in her hands. ¡°You hang on to it. Later, you can give it to my grandfather yourself. He¡¯ll like you more because of it.¡±


    ¡°I understand,¡± Brenna said, her voice a little uncertain. ¡°But your parents already don¡¯t seem to like me. What if your grandfather feels the same?¡± Doubt crept into her thoughts. If Emmett and Elsa had said anything negative about her to Vincent, Vincent might already be biased against her. Would he even care that she brought him medicine?


    As someone with senior military status, Vincent might not be the type who ced much value on small gestures like these.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry about that. My grandfather isn¡¯t anything like my parents. He¡¯ll be d to see you. You¡¯re the one who cured his illness. He¡¯s nearly back to his old self now, getting around on his own, thinking clearly, and living without help. He has called me more than once, asking when he¡¯ll finally have the chance to thank you in person,¡± Ethan said.


    That gave Brenna a little peace of mind. As long as Vincent didn¡¯t dislike her, she was content. She had never expected to win over the entire Mitchell family; she just didn¡¯t want to be disliked.


    She had no ns to go out of her way to win anyone over. Keeping a respectful distance from the Mitchell family members was more than enough. The Mitchell family came from a long line of military service, steeped in tradition and pride. Only Emmett and Elsa seemed out of step with that legacy.


    Brenna gave her outfit a quick once-over. She had chosen a beige long-sleeved dress¡ªmodest in shape, but graceful and appropriate for the asion. ¡°Does my outfit look alright? Should I wear something else?¡± she asked Ethan.


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    ¡°It looks great. No need to change.¡±


    After driving for over an hour, they finally arrived at their destination. It was past eleven, and most of the Mitchell family members had already gathered, waiting for Ethan¡¯s arrival.


    Vincent lived with his eldest son, Cason Mitchell. As a senior military officer, it made sense for him to reside in a distinguished house with polished surroundings and tight security.


    Ethan didn¡¯t ask Neville to honk. He and Brenna simply stepped out of the car quietly.


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 Chapter 786

    ?Chapter 786:


    Neville took the gifts they had prepared from the trunk, handed them over, and then quietly drove off.


    From the house, the sounds of cheerful conversation and lightughter spilled into the courtyard. As Brenna stepped closer, she caught Elsa¡¯s voice. ¡°Minna is such a well-rounded girl. She¡¯s both thoughtful and capable. She is now working at a respected civil aviationpany¡­¡±


    Ethan also heard that. Despite his attempts to ruin Minna¡¯s career in the business world, his parents had clearly used their influence to get her a position in a civil aviationpany.


    Brenna didn¡¯t mind it. It seemed entirely logical. Minna needed something to do, and with Elsa¡¯s approval and backing, she was bound to end up somewhere respectable.


    Whether Minna worked as a member of ground operations or as cabin crew, both positions offered security and prestige. With her good looks andposed manner, she could thrive in either role. As they reached the steps, Ethan called out, ¡°Grandpa!¡±


    The sound ofughter ceased instantly. A momentter, the door opened, and Cason greeted Brenna with a wide smile. ¡°Dr. Harper, wee. It¡¯s such a pleasure to have you here. Looks like fate has decided to make us family. Please,e in.¡±


    Brenna returned his warm expression with a polite smile.


    As soon as she stepped inside, she noticed the room was filled with people, most of them dressed in sharp military uniforms representing a wide range of ranks.


    Brenna immediately recognized several faces from her time treating Vincent back at the hospital.


    She gave a slight smile to everyone as a greeting.


    ¡°Brenna,e sit over here,¡± Vincent called out from the sofa, motioning for Brenna to sit beside him. ¡°I¡¯m truly grateful for everything you did to help me recover.¡±


    ¡°You tter me,¡± Brenna replied, making her way over as a young woman in uniform shifted over to give her space.


    Both she and Ethan took their seats beside Vincent and began chatting with him. The atmosphere stayed light, and nearly everyone wore a smile. Even Emmett, who disliked Brenna, managed to put on a polite expression. Elsa, however, wore a dark expression, her displeasure evident.


    ¡°You seem to be healing well, and I don¡¯t see any lingering issues,¡± Brenna said as she gently examined Vincent, paying no attention to Elsa¡¯s disapproving re.


    She pulled her hand back and reached into her bag. She then took out a small box and set it before Vincent. ¡°This is a medicine I personally developed for cardiovascr treatment. If you continue taking it for the next few days, I believe your recovery will be even smoother.¡±


    ¡°Oh wow! You invented this? Cason got a batch for me, and it worked like a charm. I had no idea you were the one who created it,¡± said Vincent, clearly caught off guard and pleased to learn that the most effective medicine he had ever used came from Brenna, which only deepened his fondness for her.


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 Chapter 787

    ?Chapter 787:


    Everyone in the room shifted their gaze toward Brenna. The look on their faces showed surprise, but underneath that was a clear sense of disbelief at what she had just imed.


    They already saw Brenna as someone extraordinary. She was young, yet her list of achievements spoke for itself. Her skills in mechanical design went beyond what even veteran engineers could do. She was also credited as the lead designer behind the newest generation of fighter jets.


    That alone ced her in the realm of a genius. Most people struggled to master one field, yet somehow, she had seeded in several.


    From what they knew, Brenna also owned a venture capital firm and was highly capable in finance and investment.


    Now, she was saying she had also developed a cardiovascr drug that earned international recognition?


    That just sounded far too unreal.


    Their eyes were filled with doubt as they looked at Brenna. Still, because Brenna stood beside Ethan as his girlfriend and had earned a reputation for creating the next-gen fighter jets, the Mitchell family members showed her respect.


    Even though they weren¡¯tpletely convinced she had created the medicine, they chose not to confront her about it. That would only seem rude.


    The Mitchell family prided themselves on their military background, which shaped their sense of discipline and order. The older family members stayed quiet, and the younger ones knew better than to interject. Their reputation for good manners meant that even their expressions were carefully measured, never making guests feel unwee.


    Cason, who had been sitting quietly on a single armchair off to the side, gave a small nod of approval. ¡°Miss Harper, I didn¡¯t know you had made strides in pharmaceuticals, too. When my father¡¯s health first declined, Dr. Pierce rmended you to us. I recall hearing that you were thest student under Cuthbert, and his most gifted one at that. To be honest, my father took this medicine before, but we bought it through the Pierce family¡¯s pharmaceuticalpany at that time. Did you cooperate with the Pierce family¡¯spany?¡±


    Brenna gave a small nod. ¡°That¡¯s right. I created the form. The Pierce family takes care of the production and distribution.¡±


    Cason let out a soft ¡°Oh¡± and seemed convinced. Brenna¡¯s calm demeanor and honest tone left little room for doubt. Despite everything she had aplished, there wasn¡¯t even a hint of arrogance in her voice. She didn¡¯te across as someone who exaggerated or made things up to show off.


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    ¡°You¡¯re extraordinary. Honestly, I¡¯m starting to think Ethan isn¡¯t good enough for you,¡± said Cason with genuine warmth.


    While the Mitchell children had their fair share of sess, it was hard to ignore how small their achievements looked next to Brenna¡¯s.


    Elsa had been holding back her displeasure. But watching the Mitchells gush over Brenna like she was some kind of genius and hearing Cason toss out thatpliment made her unable to hold back anymore.


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 Chapter 788

    ?Chapter 788:


    She said, ¡°Let¡¯s not get carried away with the praise. Brenna is so young. Do you really think she pulled all that off by herself? That fighter jet everyone keeps talking about wasn¡¯t built by her alone. From what I¡¯ve heard, she had a full team of elite engineers in her team. I wouldn¡¯t be surprised if she didn¡¯t contribute much. Those engineers in her team make millions every year, some even rake in tens of millions. She clearly has money and hired them to do everything for her.¡±


    She gave a sharp, coldugh and looked directly at Brenna, who didn¡¯t offer a single word in return. That silence only made her believe that what she had just said was right.


    So, she continued, ¡°It¡¯s unheard of for someone to seed in so many fields. For all we know, she might¡¯ve just bought the rights to the form for that medicine. The Harper family sure spares no expense for her.¡±


    With a smug smile, she said, ¡°If she¡¯s really that skilled and talented, then why didn¡¯t the Barrett family ever thrive when she lived with them? Why did all this supposed brilliance only show up after she returned to the Harper family? Don¡¯t let her fool you; she¡¯s all sh and no depth!¡±


    ¡°Mom!¡± Ethan interjected sharply. ¡°Do you have anything to back that up? Everyone can see what Brenna is capable of. You only think she is lying because you don¡¯t like her. Do you honestly believe anyone could design a fighter jet? Do you take the military for fools? You think tossing together ideas from a few engineers could create something that advanced? That is impossible!¡±


    Vincent cleared his throat loudly, looking a bit angry. ¡°Elsa, that was out of line. You should really watch what you say. I can¡¯t speak for everything, but one thing I know for sure is this¡ªI¡¯m still here today because Brenna saved me. I can live without needing anyone¡¯s help, and it¡¯s all thanks to her.¡±


    He believed Elsa had her strengths, but her domineering nature made it hard for anyone else to have a voice in the family. Once she decided she didn¡¯t like someone, no amount of talent could change her mind. She would always find a reason to discredit them.


    Vincent continued, ¡°Elsa, your dislike for Brenna is obvious to all of us. But I believe she¡¯s a good person, so stop tearing her down in front of me.¡±


    Vincent scolded Elsa in front of Brenna and the entire Mitchell family. For someone who prized her pride above all else like Elsa, the public embarrassment was unbearable.


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    Her hostility toward Brenna intensified. ¡°I¡¯m not inventing things, Vincent! Just think about what happened with the Russell family¡ªwhat Brenna did waspletely out of line. We can¡¯t let someone who disrespects elders be part of our family. Sure, she saved your life, but we¡¯ve already repaid her. We don¡¯t owe her anything.¡±


    Cason¡¯s wife, Sierra Mitchell, had had enough and jumped in.


    ¡°That again? You¡¯ve repeated that story so many times already. I personally investigated the matter and talked to several attendees from Amy¡¯s birthday. They all confirmed that Miss Harper just asked for someone toe. She didn¡¯t specifically ask for you. It was the military districtmander who requested your performance. Why can¡¯t you just let the matter go?¡±


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 Chapter 789

    ?Chapter 789:


    Vincent¡¯s third daughter-inw, Lois Mitchell, also stepped in to support Brenna. ¡°Exactly. I asked Ethan about it before. Miss Harper didn¡¯t mean to embarrass you. Besides, you¡¯re just a singer. So what if you were asked to perform at the party? That is your job.¡±


    Elsa was seething. ¡°What¡¯s that supposed to mean¡ªjust a singer? I¡¯m a performer, a vocalist with national recognition and a military rank! How dare you talk about me like that?¡±


    Though Elsa and Lois often shed in private, their spats rarely escted this far.


    Lois gave a shortugh. ¡°Did I say anything untrue? You¡¯re still just a singer. Quit acting like you¡¯re some national treasure. Your position doesn¡¯t give you the authority to pressure your son into a marriage he doesn¡¯t want or to expect the rest of us to do as you say.¡±


    Ethan felt a headacheing on. This was Brenna¡¯s first time visiting his family, and she had to witness such a scene.


    Sierra stepped in, trying to defuse the tension. ¡°That¡¯s enough from both of you. Stop bickering. Miss Harper doesn¡¯te here often, and she brought a very generous gift this time. Isn¡¯t that considerate of her? Elsa, I really believe she is a genuinely kind girl. Do you have any idea how much Cason spent on the medicine Vincent used back then?¡±


    Elsa, who hadn¡¯t been involved in the matter, had no idea how much the medicine had cost.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. But they¡¯re just pills; how expensive could that possibly be?¡± she said.


    ¡°One pill costs ten million. Sure, we¡¯re not strapped for cash, but even for us, that¡¯s no small amount. Ethan paid for the medicine, but even then, it was only through Brenna¡¯s connections that the Pierce family agreed to sell it. The medicine is incredibly rare; people would do almost anything to get it. Even with money, getting it is hard.¡±


    Sierra then nced at Ethan, prompting him to speak up.


    ¡°We only got the medicine because I asked for Brenna¡¯s help,¡± Ethan said. ¡°The Pierce family agreed to sell the medicine solely because of her. Mom, Brenna¡¯s a good person. As long as you treat her kindly, she¡¯ll always show you respect.¡±


    ¡°Show me respect?¡± Elsa scoffed. ¡°Don¡¯t try to change my mind. The matter you are discussing has nothing to do with me.¡±


    Still seething, Elsa rose to her feet and walked off. It used to be just Ethan opposing her, but now, the entire Mitchell family seemed to be siding against her.


    Brenna clearly knew how to win people over, she thought.


    Emmett¡¯s mood soured as well. He already held a low opinion of Brenna and suspected she was the one encouraging Ethan to challenge him and Elsa.


    Before long, it was time to eat. Cason and Sierra had gone all out; a full banquet had been prepared, and arge cake had been brought in to celebrate Vincent¡¯s birthday.


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 Chapter 790

    Chapter 790:


    Since it was rare to have the entire family together, Cason had arranged for a photographer to take a family photo. At their request, Brenna was included in the photo.


    After lunch, Brenna spent some time chatting with the others before leaving with Ethan.


    After ten in the evening that day, Brenna had just finished her shower and changed into her pajamas when Giselle knocked on the door and walked into her room.


    Shepard was also there but stayed near the doorway.


    ¡°You promised your uncle you¡¯d design a prosthetic for him,¡± he said. ¡°I came to ask about the progress of that. Your uncle has asked me about it a few times. Now that he¡¯s out of the hospital, it has been tough for him to manage without a prosthetic.¡±


    Brenna offered a small smile. ¡°Oh, so that¡¯s what this is about? Dad, why didn¡¯t you ask me sooner? I¡¯ve already finished the design and sent it to the factory. It should be¡­¡±


    ¡°Ready in about six days, and it will be delivered to us soon. Once I receive it, I¡¯ll take it to my uncle so he can test it out.¡±


    Shepard gave a satisfied nod. ¡°Great. I¡¯ll let him know right away.¡±


    Brenna said, ¡°The prosthetic I designedes with an intelligent system. It fits more securely andfortably than his old one, and it includes a bnce feature to ease the strain on his body. It¡¯s exactly what he needs.¡±


    Giselle, standing off to the side, spoke up with a smile. ¡°See? I knew Brenna wouldn¡¯t forget about that.¡±


    The weekend had finally arrived, and for Brenna, the chance to sleep in was a rare luxury. Thiago and Ellie had been off on their honeymoon for the past month, which had left her buried in responsibilities and constantly running on empty. Even now, despite having no duties, she still felt worn out.


    When she eventually woke up without an rm, the time on her phone showed it was nearly noon.


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    As she descended the stairs, her stomach let out a loud growl from hunger. Before reaching the living room on the first floor, she heard someone speaking in awkward, heavily ented English. Right away, she recognized the voice; it was Maxley¡¯s.


    Momentster, she heard Rosie¡¯s voice.


    ¡°What are they doing here?¡± Brenna muttered to herself,pletely puzzled. Considering Rosie¡¯s recent fallout with the Harper family, her sudden appearance here was odd. Given Rosie¡¯s calcting nature and hot temper, could she really havee here to apologize?


    Brenna quickly stepped into the living room and found it already filled with familiar faces. Seated on the sofas were Shepard, Giselle, Ernst, and Dalton; every family member had gathered except for her.


    Rosie was dressed like a celebrity attending a red carpet event. Her outfit radiated opulence, and her essories¡ªincluding a diamond ne worth millions¡ªscreamed wealth and prestige. Every strand of hair was perfectly styled, and her makeup was wless.


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 Chapter 791

    ?Chapter 791:


    It didn¡¯t take Brenna more than a second to realize Rosie hade here to show off.


    Taking a seat beside Dalton, Brenna whispered to him, ¡°Isn¡¯t your concert scheduled for tonight? Why haven¡¯t you left to prepare for it yet?¡±


    Dalton leaned in and replied, ¡°I will leave after lunch. The crew is already at the venue, setting things up. It¡¯s fine if I arrive a bitter.¡±


    A slight nod from Brenna followed. ¡°I¡¯ll make sure to bring flowers for you after the concert.¡±


    Dalton¡¯s face lit up; he was clearly delighted by her promise.


    At the same time, Rosie shot Brenna a hateful re, her irritation barely concealed. She still couldn¡¯t stand Brenna. She ignored her and kept talking to Dalton like she wasn¡¯t even there.


    ¡°Brenna, I need to talk about something serious. Can you stop the pointless small talk with Dalton?¡± Rosie said, her tone sharp.


    ¡°What could be more important than what we are talking about? Dalton¡¯s about to step onto the stage for his very first concert. Isn¡¯t that a big deal? Whether it turns out to be a sess or not means everything to him,¡± Brenna replied.


    In reality, Brenna had already caught Rosie¡¯s conversation with the Harper family members while lingering by the stairs. Rosie had hoped to mend fences with the Harper family and wanted to treat them to a meal, but Shepard hadn¡¯t agreed.


    Rosie let out a dismissive snort. ¡°It¡¯s just a concert. What¡¯s the big deal? He¡¯s already rich and famous. Why go through all the trouble for a concert? Don¡¯t forget, I¡¯m not only part of the Harper family; I¡¯m also the wife of the Prince of Plieca. My standing is far above yours. And yet, you ignore me to talk about some silly concert?¡±


    The rest of the Harper family exchanged ufortable looks, visibly annoyed by Rosie¡¯sck of respect for Dalton.


    Dalton clenched his jaw, visibly upset, and said, ¡°So your problems matter, but mine don¡¯t? Is that it? You really think being the spouse of some tiny country¡¯s prince makes you royalty? You expect us to drop everything for you? Sorry, but your fancy title doesn¡¯t mean anything to me.¡± With that, he turned and left.


    His assistant, who had been waiting for him and gently reminding him to leave, immediately followed. If it weren¡¯t for the fact that Maxley was a distinguished guest in this country, Dalton would¡¯ve left much sooner.


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    ¡°Dalton!¡± Rosie called out, trying to stop him, but he didn¡¯t turn around; he headed straight for the car without a backward nce.


    Unable to contain her outrage, Rosie said, ¡°Unbelievable! Look at the way he treats distinguished guests!¡±


    Brenna rolled her eyes and said, ¡°You really think you are someone important? That is ridiculous!¡±


    ¡°You really have a bad attitude,¡± said Maxley, raising an eyebrow as he lounged across the sofa, arms stretched and legs casually crossed.


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 Chapter 792

    ?Chapter 792:


    He tried to appear regal, but to the Harper family, he seemed merely arrogant. His superior attitude only increased their dislike for him. They believed that since he hade here to make amends, he should at least show some sincerity.


    Shepard said sharply, ¡°If there¡¯s nothing else, the two of you should leave. We have things to do and won¡¯t keep you here for long.¡±


    If not for Maxley¡¯s status, Shepard would not have even let Rosie in.


    Rosie had once gone to great lengths to harm the Harper family, trying to bring down theirpany and severing tiespletely. Now, she came back talking about reconciliation but still carried herself with an air of superiority. Did she really believe the Harpers would just agree to whatever she wanted?


    Rosie said to Shepard, ¡°I¡¯ve called you Dad for years. Can¡¯t you at least show me a little respect now? I admit I was wrong before. I was foolish and immature. Can¡¯t you give me another chance? To be honest, Maxley is fighting for the crown, and we need the Harper family¡¯s support. If you help us, and Maxley ends up winning the throne, he¡¯ll repay you. He¡¯ll make sure the Harper family receives enormous rewards.¡±


    Her voice was impatient,ced with frustration. She believed that, considering her status, saying these words was beneath her.


    After the way Dalton had openly disrespected her earlier, she had no intention of putting on a show of politeness.


    Shepard¡¯s voice was sharp with anger. ¡°Don¡¯t refer to me as Dad. I¡¯m not your father; you¡¯re Carsen¡¯s daughter. You¡¯re royalty now. Someone like me doesn¡¯t deserve to be called your father.¡±


    Rosie hadn¡¯t considered him as her father when she had turned her back on the Harper family. Now that she needed the Harper family¡¯s help, she wanted to talk about their rtionship like that?


    Ernst kept quiet, his brow furrowed the entire time. The girl he had once known ¡ª obedient, warm ¡ª had be cold and calcting. It was deeply disappointing.


    The arrogance in Rosie¡¯s tone made it clear she wasn¡¯t here to reconcile; she was here to bestow favor on them, as though the Harper family was beneath her. He couldn¡¯t tolerate that.


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    ¡°Right. You¡¯re royalty now, and we¡¯re no longer worth your time. If there¡¯s nothing else, you should leave. We¡¯ve got work to do.¡± With that, Ernst rose to his feet and walked away, unwilling to spend another second in Rosie¡¯s presence.


    ¡°How can you say that, Ernst? You were the one who doted on me the most before,¡± Rosie said, hurrying after him and grabbing his arm. ¡°I genuinely want to make things right with the family. Could you help me get everyone together for a meal? It¡¯s on me, okay?¡±


    ¡°Can¡¯t help you; I¡¯ve got other things to handle.¡± Ernst shook off her hand and walked away.


    Rosie stomped her foot in irritation.


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 Chapter 793

    ?Chapter 793:


    Maxley let out a silent sigh, disappointment flickering across his face. It was obvious the Harper family wasn¡¯t interested in helping him and Rosie. Still, he needed their support, along with the Mitchell Group¡¯s.


    He said, ¡°Mr. Harper, let¡¯s keep family matters out of this for now. I have several projects that could bring substantial benefits to the Harper Group. Help me out, and I¡¯ll return the favor. It¡¯s a win-win. What do you think?¡±


    Giselle saw that Shepard was starting to hesitate, but she had no desire to get involved with Maxley or Rosie. She stood up and said, ¡°I¡¯ll go check on lunch. You talk.¡±


    She led Brenna out with her.


    Brenna had no interest in interfering in the matter, either. In the end, it was Shepard¡¯s choice to make.


    In the kitchen, Brenna put on disposable gloves and took a bite of a drumstick without much thought.


    ¡°Honestly, if Maxley¡¯s proposals turn out to be lucrative, we could use them to our advantage. We could even use it as a chance to screw them over,¡± Brenna spoke in a calm, measured tone.


    ¡°You¡¯re no different from your father and Ernst, always putting profit before everything else,¡± Giselle said, clearly displeased. ¡°I don¡¯t think it¡¯s the right call. Rosie is selfish. Haven¡¯t you realized? She never does anything unless it benefits her, and she has never genuinely cared about this family. After what happened to Luther, she didn¡¯t express a shred of guilt. She didn¡¯t even mention it today. Even your father, who usually puts money first, didn¡¯t budge; that should tell you how disappointed he is in her.¡±


    Brenna sighed lightly. ¡°I¡¯m not getting involved. Whatever Dad decides is up to him.¡±


    Giselle gave a firm nod. ¡°We have no use for her money or her so-called business proposals.¡±


    Outside, the conversation was still going, but it was clear things weren¡¯t going smoothly.


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    ¡°Out, now!¡± Shepard¡¯s voice boomed through the hall.


    Momentster, Brenna caught sight of Rosie and Maxley being led out by security.


    She and Giselle stepped out of the kitchen.


    ¡°Don¡¯t get angry. It¡¯ll just raise your blood pressure. These kinds of people aren¡¯t worth it,¡± Giselle said gently, trying to soothe Shepard.


    Shepard was still fuming. ¡°My father used to cherish Rosie. When he passed, she didn¡¯t even cry and went straight to arguing over the inheritance. We treated her like our own daughter before. But did you know what she just said? She said that we had never genuinely cared about her. How could she say something like that?¡±


    He sank into the sofa, his anger mounting with each word.


    Giselle remained by his side, doing her best to calm him down.


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 Chapter 794

    ?Chapter 794:


    Brenna called Ernst and Dalton, asking them toe back for lunch.


    She had a feeling they hadn¡¯t gone far, just stepped out to avoid Rosie.


    But Dalton had already headed to his concert venue. Ernst came back soon. ¡°Dad¡¯s still furious. Talk to him,¡± Brenna whispered as Ernst stepped through the door.


    During the meal, Shepard kept venting, his frustration with Rosie spilling over.


    ¡°Let¡¯s just act like she was never part of this family,¡± Giselle said gently, trying once more to calm him.


    Just then, Brenna¡¯s phone lit up with a message. She checked the screen and saw it was from Rosie.


    ¡°So? Interested in working with me?¡±


    Brenna stared at the screen, then deleted the message without replying. She couldn¡¯t believe Rosie had the nerve to reach out to her. After a while, she received another message from Rosie.


    ¡°Guess who I¡¯m having dinner with now?¡±


    The message was followed by a photo of Denis and Isabe.


    Rosie¡¯s message came again. ¡°You won¡¯t partner with me? Fine. I¡¯ll pass all the projects to the Wagner Group. There¡¯s no shortage of people eager to team up with me.¡±


    Brenna slid her phone to the middle of the table, her voice cold. ¡°You should see this.¡±


    Shepard picked the phone up and read the messages Rosie had sent Brenna. The scowl on his face came quickly.


    ¡°She¡¯s trying to y mind games. She thinks scaring you will push us to bend. Let her give her deals to someone else. We¡¯re not chasing after her money. She¡¯s walking around like we need her scraps.¡± The warmth he had once had for Rosie hadpletely disappeared.


    Rosie¡¯s actions had truly broken his heart. He passed the phone to Giselle with a dark expression. ¡°Look at this. What has Rosie be? All she cares about is money and profit.¡±


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    Giselle and Ernst both leaned over to read the messages. Their expressions darkened.


    Giselle spoke through clenched teeth. ¡°We treated her like our own, but she treats us like pawns.¡±


    Ernst reached over and gave her shoulder a gentle pat. ¡°Don¡¯t take it to heart, Mom. Let¡¯s just forget she was ever part of our family.¡±


    Brenna took her phone back and didn¡¯t reply to Rosie.


    After eating, she headed upstairs. She picked out a chic outfit, did her makeup with care, and chose a designer handbag. After putting a few must-haves in the bag, she made her way down. Knowing the concert crowd would make parking a nightmare, she had the house driver take her there instead.


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 Chapter 795

    ?Chapter 795:


    On the way to the venue, she caught sight of a quaint flower shop and asked the driver to pull over. She bought a bouquet bursting with cool blue hues.


    By the time she reached the downtown stadium, the energy there was already building. It was only four in the afternoon, but waves of fans had already taken over the area. Most had traveled from far outside Shirie just to watch Dalton¡¯s first concert.


    Lining the stadium were rows upon rows of merch stalls, each swarmed by eager fans.


    Cutouts of Dalton stood tall beside booths selling shirts with his lyrics, branded hats, glowing sticks, and glossy posters.


    Brenna had never been a fangirl before. The sheer intensity of the scene caught her off guard.


    Curious but slightly overwhelmed, she worked her way through the crowd and bought a light board glowing with Dalton¡¯s name.


    Thankfully, Shepard had the foresight to assign two bodyguards to apany her. Without them, the crowd would have swallowed her whole.


    The frenzy around the merch booths was evident. Everything was getting snatched up as fast as it hit the tables. Brenna let the current of people carry her toward the stadium gates.


    Fortunately, there were several entry points.


    After getting inside, Brenna was stunned by the size of the ce. It looked built to fit nearly eighty thousand people. Seating prices varied by distance, and those closest to the stage were clearly expensive.


    The stage was fully assembled by the time she entered. Towering LED screens stood at both ends, shing a loop of Dalton¡¯s concert promos. Lift tforms were getting final checks, while sponsorship banners lined the upper rails in perfect symmetry.


    From where she stood, Brenna recognized logos from the Harper Group, Mitchell Technologies, and several other bigpanies based in Shirie. Onstage, technicians moved briskly as they adjusted microphones and ran lighting tests, fine-tuning every detail.


    Brenna knew there was nothing for her to do there. So, she kept her distance, careful not to interfere with the crew¡¯s work.


    g?ln¦Ò¦Í????s holds stories for every mood


    She found her seat and sat down. Pulling out her phone, she aimed to snap a photo and share it online.


    Just then, she saw Rosie¡¯s post, timestamped fifty minutes earlier.


    ¡°Tried to offer my family some good projects, but they refused me. Got kicked out. It broke my heart.¡±


    Thements came in fast, many with usernames she was familiar with.


    Jordy: ¡°Was it the Harper family? What happened?¡±


    Rosie replied, ¡°I made a small mistake in the past. I¡¯ve said sorry again and again, but they won¡¯t forgive me. I don¡¯t want to lose them.¡±


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 Chapter 796

    ?Chapter 796:


    Isabemented, ¡°I understand you. Someone didn¡¯t even share a meal with her adoptive parents when they needed help the most. She kicked them out. Some of us are just too soft to fight back.¡±


    Vivianmented, ¡°You¡¯ll get through it.¡±


    Others asked what had really happened, but Rosie dodged the questions. Brenna¡¯s blood boiled. Her jaw tightened as she took a screenshot of the post and sent Rosie a message.


    ¡°What exactly are you trying to do with this post? You honestly believe you didn¡¯t deserve to be kicked out? Stop dragging the Harper family¡¯s name through the dirt. Delete the post. Now.¡±


    Rosie didn¡¯t reply to her. Brenna kept her eyes glued to the screen, watching the minutes tick by. After more than ten, she debated calling Rosie but stopped herself.


    As she mulled over whether to post a rebuttal, her finger swiped past something that made her stop. It was a forum thread¡ªRosie had taken her sob story there too, painting herself as the victim who had been heartlessly cast out by the Harper family.


    To make matters worse, a swarm of trolls had flooded the thread, showering Rosie with sympathy, all trying to twist the narrative in her favor.


    Brenna didn¡¯t hesitate. She forwarded everything to Ernst.


    Ernst replied quickly, ¡°Got it. I¡¯m already talking about this with Rosie.¡±


    Brenna responded, ¡°She¡¯s trying to back us into a corner. Her method is cruel.¡±


    Ernst stood alone in the top-floor office of the Harper Group¡¯s headquarters, one hand tucked in his pocket, eyes fixed on his phone screen. Rosie was clearly dodging his calls, and this only fueled his frustration. His brows tightened as the call ended on its own. With an irritated sigh, he crossed over to his wide desk, grabbed the tablet, and refreshed the screen.


    The post Rosie had shared earlier was blowing up with engagement. He didn¡¯t need confirmation¡ªhis instincts told him she¡¯d hired ghost ounts to fan the mes. But whatever her methods, dragging the Harper name through the mud publicly was uneptable.


    Thement section brimmed with scathing remarks about the Harper family, while waves of support poured in for Rosie.


    Ernst called Rosie, but once again, the call rang out with no response.


    With every unanswered call, his annoyance deepened. If Rosie continued to brush him off, he¡¯d act without hesitation. The Harper Group¡¯s PR unit might¡¯ve been small and seldom deployed, but when activated, its effectiveness was undeniable.


    ¡°Call the head of PR over,¡± Ernst said to his secretary.


    Momentster, a young man in a fitted ck suit stepped into the room. ¡°Mr. Harper, how can I assist you?¡±


    ¡°Did you see Rosie¡¯s post?¡± Ernst asked, reclining in his chair, his fingertips drumming thoughtfully against the desk as he weighed his next move.


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 Chapter 797

    ?Chapter 797:


    Austen Herrera nced at the tablet. ¡°Yes, I saw it.¡±


    He handed over a carefully prepared response n, waiting as Ernst read it. ¡°Mr. Harper, how do you like this strategy? If you approve, we can implement it immediately to ensure the Harper Group¡¯s reputation remains intact.¡±


    Ernst read the strategy carefully. The proposal was good¡ªstrategic, thorough, and aimed straight at Rosie¡¯s vulnerabilities.


    It was obvious Austen had thoroughly studied Rosie¡¯s history and her conflicts with the Harper family.


    Still, these were private family affairs, and even the most informed PR manager couldn¡¯t truly grasp the full details.


    Ernst pointed to a specific line. ¡°Change this. You said Rosie sued the Harper family after her grandfather¡¯s death because of the way the shares were split amongst the¡­¡±


    ¡°Rtives. That¡¯s nothing more than outsider spection. Neither I nor the chairman has ever revealed the actual reason Rosie filed thewsuit against the Harper family.¡±


    A flicker of curiosity crossed Austen¡¯s face. Back then, Rosie¡¯swsuit against the Harper family had stirred quite a buzz throughout thepany. While views differed, the dominant narrative painted Rosie as a victim, forced to sue because the Harper family had mistreated her.


    But maybe that wasn¡¯t the truth after all?


    Lifting an eyebrow, Austen looked at Ernst, his interest clearly stirred. ¡°Mr. Harper, how would you prefer we word it, then? After that board meeting, thepany¡¯s statement about the matter was vague, and that left room for plenty of spection. Most people sympathize with Rosie.¡±


    He paused for a moment, eyes fixed on Ernst¡¯s face as he gauged his reaction. ¡°Are you thinking of disclosing the truth to the public? This touches on private family matters. If I may, I¡¯d rmend sticking to whatever protects the Harper Group¡¯s image. Revealing the truth might not be necessary.¡±


    Austen stayed quiet after that, waiting for Ernst¡¯s final call.


    Deep down, he wanted to know what had really happened. Even mid-level management at the Harper Group didn¡¯t know the whole story.


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    After a short silence, Ernst settled on his course of action. ¡°This is what you¡¯ll say¡ªRosie fiercely objected to Luther¡¯s inheritance n, which escted into a heated argument that¡¯s believed to have triggered his sudden death. Afterward, she filedwsuits against her uncles and other family members, trying to take the Harper Group¡¯s shares.¡±


    Austen blinked, stunned. A lot of people found Luther¡¯s sudden death odd. But it wasn¡¯t strange for an old man to copse from a stroke or heart attack.


    However, dying from the rage of a fight was too shocking.


    If this version of the story went public under the Harper Group¡¯s name, it would destroy Rosie¡¯s imagepletely.


    She might be disliked by the Harper family, but she was still one of them. Wasn¡¯t this too brutal?


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 Chapter 798

    ?Chapter 798:


    The moment this information hit the public, everyone in Shirie would look down on her.


    Austen had a gut feeling Ernst was holding something back, but he knew Ernst wouldn¡¯t tell him everything.


    ¡°Mr. Harper, are you absolutely certain about this?¡± he asked.


    Something told him Ernst mighte to regret this move in the future. Rosie used to be a regr in Ernst¡¯s office, and everyone at thepany knew just how much he had cared for her. Now that things hade to this, Austen felt the need to double-check.


    What if Ernst ended up regretting this?


    ¡°Yeah,¡± Ernst said. ¡°She¡¯s the one who dragged the past into the spotlight and tried to stain the Harper name. If that¡¯s the game she wants to y, then fine, I won¡¯t hold back.¡±


    Rosie applied her lipstick with deliberate care, her eyes admiring the wless reflection staring back at her in the mirror.


    Out in the living room, Maxley nced at the phone lighting up again, then fading to ck, a faint smirk tugging at his lips.


    Three back-to-back calls from Ernst¡ªhe had to be trying to make amends. Clearly, the Harper family was starting to sweat.


    He strolled into the bathroom and wrapped his arms around Rosie from behind. ¡°Rosie, your n was genius. Ernst has already called me three times trying to patch things up.¡±


    Rosie turned in his arms andced her arms behind his neck. ¡°Don¡¯t bother with him. The Harper family cares more about appearances than anything. Back when I went after the Harper Group shares, they didn¡¯t even dare tell the public what had really happened. They hate me, sure, but they still shielded my image to protect their own.¡±


    She then traced slow circles on his shirt with one finger. ¡°That¡¯s why I¡¯ve got the Harper Group right where I want them. They¡¯ll fold. They have no other option.¡±


    Maxley nodded, pressing a soft kiss to her cheek. ¡°Darling, you¡¯re the smartest woman I know. What do you want to do today?¡±


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    Rosie linked arms with him and led the way out. ¡°Let¡¯s head to Dalton¡¯s concert. We can surprise the Harper family with this.¡±


    Maxley casually grabbed the handbag and phone from the armrest, stuffed the phone into the bag, and left the house with Rosie.


    As their car pulled away, they sat side by side in the backseat, quietly ironing out the finer points of their next move.


    Confidence lit up Rosie¡¯s face. ¡°Dalton¡¯s a national icon. Tonight, that stadium will be packed with about eighty thousand fans. I want to air the Harper family¡¯s dirtyundry right in front of them, and his fans will turn against him. Let his reputation crumble with the Harper family¡¯s. That¡¯s what they get for turning down my demands.¡±


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 Chapter 799

    ?Chapter 799:


    She nced down at her phone¡ªtwo messages from Ernst hade in a while ago, asking what exactly she wanted.


    She didn¡¯t bother opening them.


    Maxley fully supported her n. ¡°The Harper family insulted the Plieca royal family. I¡¯m a prince, came to extend goodwill, and they brushed me off? Let¡¯s teach them a lesson. And even if they crawl back begging us, we won¡¯t show them mercy.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s eyes gleamed. ¡°Exactly. I know the Harper family inside out. They¡¯re just like my grandfather, obsessed with their public image. They¡¯d rather bury the truth and eat their pride than face scandal. Once they see my post and all thosements tearing into them, they¡¯ll panic and want to reconcile with me.¡±


    Maxley nodded in agreement. ¡°We¡¯ve spent a fortune on the media and the inte. No outlet¡¯s going to remove our post easily. Let¡¯s wait for the Harper family toe begging.¡±


    Rosie stared at her screen, the three missed calls from Ernst lined up like trophies. A pleased smile tugged at her lips. She was sure he¡¯d keep calling. But thirty minutes had slipped by since they¡¯d left theirpound, and Ernst still hadn¡¯t called again.


    Rosie kept checking her screen, secretly hoping it would ring, though she had no ns of picking up if it did.


    Her eyes scrolled through thements, satisfaction rising. Her paid trolls were hammering the Harper Group and flooding her post with support.


    Then, she exited thement section and refreshed her social feed, only to stop cold at the sight of a new trending headline. Pinned to the top was an official statement from the Harper Group¡¯s PR team.


    Her skin lost its color as her eyes raced through the statement in stunned silence.


    ¡°No¡­ This is impossible!¡± Rosie gasped, gripping her phone. ¡°They never go public with scandals. Why now? This is a direct attack!¡±


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    Her fingers flew across the screen as she typed out a rebuttal. But the moment she posted it, it vanished beneath the avnche of other replies.


    Her singlement barely made a dent.


    A wave of panic began to rise in her. The Harper Group¡¯s statement was gaining traction fast, withments piling up by the second.


    If this kept up, the tide of public opinion would turnpletely against her.


    Rosie called the tform supervisor. The second the call went through, she barked into the phone, ¡°Bob, delete the Harper Group¡¯s PR statement right now. I don¡¯t care what it costs; just take it down! You have no idea how much damage this is doing to me¡­¡±


    She spoke to Bob Pinkman like he was beneath her, her voice dripping with contempt.


    Bob listened patiently, then after a short pause, replied in a cool, even tone, ¡°Apologies, Miss Harper. The Harper Group submitted the post through official legal channels. It is not defamatory and cannot be removed.¡±


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 Chapter 800

    ?Chapter 800:


    ¡°But it¡¯s ruining my name! Can¡¯t you see how many people are attacking me in thements? I¡¯m telling you to get it deleted now!¡± Rosie eximed.


    ¡°I¡¯ll make sure you¡¯re wellpensated. How does five hundred grand sound?¡± Rosie said. She believed that Bob must have taken a fat payout from the Harper Group. That would exin why he had refused to take their post down. Thest time she hade to him for help, she had dropped only a hundred thousand to get herself trending. He¡¯d been nothing short of enthusiastic back then, eager to please her.


    But now? His demeanor had flippedpletely; he was cold and firm. Rosie was convinced the Harper family had bought him out with a lot of money.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Miss Harper, but that¡¯s beyond my authority,¡± Bob replied with a firm tone. Earlier, he¡¯d been reprimanded by his boss for manually boosting someone onto the trending list. But it technically wasn¡¯t a serious offense, since paid trends were treated like ad space and didn¡¯t break any rules. Rosie had shelled out for her trending slot, even adding a hundred thousand-dor tip to sweeten the deal. Deals like this were routine in thepany, nothing unusual at all.


    But this time, the Harper Group had gone straight to the top, dropping serious cash on a premium trend package. Rosie¡¯s money was nothingpared to that. So, the Harper Group¡¯s post wasn¡¯t going anywhere.


    Of course, Bob kept all that to himself. If Rosie had any sense, she¡¯d retaliate by buying a higher-tier spot, going head-to-head with the Harper Group. After what felt like an endless back-and-forth, Rosie was still hitting a wall. Whether she used her identity to threaten Bob or dangled money in front of him, he stayed unmoved, steadfast in his refusal to take down the Harper Group¡¯s post.


    The situation this time was a jarring contrast to how eagerly he had bent to her willst time. Frustrated, Rosie ended the call.


    Maxley, having read the Harper Group¡¯s statement, immediately understood the situation and jumped in with a n.


    ¡°This is a media war. The Harper Group holds major influence in Shirie, getting them to pull their post isn¡¯t realistic. But that doesn¡¯t mean we back down. We just keep paying to climb the trendingdder. Public opinion¡¯s a wild card. We¡¯ve thrown shade at the Harper Group, and they¡¯ve fired back with a statement. But who does the crowd side with? That¡¯s still uncertain. Don¡¯t get discouraged. I¡¯ll call someone now and make sure we keep our post at the top.¡±


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    Rosie gave a firm nod. ¡°Okay. No way I¡¯m losing this. The public¡¯s more likely to back me than some heartless corporate giant.¡±


    Without wasting a second, Rosie kicked into gear. She funneled more funds into her ount to boost the visibility of her post and rang up the head of her trollwork, sending them an extra hundred thousand dors for them to help her.


    Once the arrangements were done, their car pulled up at the stadium entrance. From the front seat, the driver handed Rosie a bouquet of flowers.


    Rosie took the flowers with a quick nce, then shot Maxley a confident smile. ¡°Let¡¯s see how the Harper family handles this chaos.¡±


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 Chapter 801

    ?Chapter 801:


    By now, night had settled in, and it was close to 7 p.m. The concert was minutes from starting. Most of the fans had already gone into the stadium, leaving the entrance area nearly empty.


    Rosie bought two glow sticks at the gate and passed one to Maxley. Arm in arm, they made their way inside.


    Their seats were in the inner rows, close to the stage, though not quite near Brenna¡¯s section.


    Brenna, meanwhile, was fixated on her screen, eyes locked on the Harper Group¡¯s statement and Rosie¡¯s post. The stadium buzzed with noise around her, and she hadn¡¯t noticed Rosie¡¯s presence in the crowd.


    Onstage, a wave of performers moved in perfect sync, their energy lighting up the arena and stirring the audience to life. Fans were on the edge of their seats, counting down to Dalton¡¯s arrival. The moment the concert began, the crowd exploded. Brenna had never seen anything like it; Dalton¡¯s poprity was undeniable.


    The crowd was electrified. They sang every word and screamed Dalton¡¯s name, and some women even cried uncontrobly after shaking his hand,pletely overwhelmed by emotions. Brenna didn¡¯t get the obsession, but she respected their passion.


    Rosie, on the other hand, was displeased by this.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t Dalton just an actor? How¡¯s he suddenly this amazing live singer?¡± she muttered. ¡°I¡¯ve heard a few of his songs. They were average at best.¡± She couldn¡¯t fathom what made Dalton so popr.


    She let out a chillyugh. ¡°Let¡¯s see how his fans take it when the truth drops that he snatched his sister¡¯s shares. Will they keep worshiping him, or will they turn on himpletely? By then, Dalton¡¯s image will be wrecked, and they¡¯ll likely boo him right off the stage. If they all start asking for refunds, just how much do you think Dalton¡¯s going to lose?¡± She smiled, clearly satisfied with the thought.


    Maxley, however, didn¡¯t seem to hear her. He was lost in the performance, eyes glued to Dalton, waving his glow stick to the beat.


    Rosie gave his sleeve a small tug, frowning. ¡°Seriously? Is his performance really that good?¡±


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    ¡°His dramas are popr in Plieca, too,¡± Maxley admitted, not looking away. ¡°People there love the theme songs he sings; they¡¯re actually pretty good.¡± Realizing that he had just praised Dalton, he added, ¡°Honestly, the guy¡¯s got real talent. Too bad he¡¯s a Harper.¡±


    Rosie bristled at thement, her anger ring instantly. So what if Dalton was an international superstar? She refused to recognize his so-called talent, no matter how many fans screamed his name.


    ¡°Is he really that impressive?¡± she muttered, standing up with a huff. ¡°I¡¯m going now.¡±


    Maxley, too caught up in the performance, barely nced her way. ¡°Yeah, sure,¡± he said absentmindedly. Their n had been mapped out earlier at home, so there was nothing to worry about.


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 Chapter 802

    ?Chapter 802:


    Their seats were strategically ced at the end of the T-shaped runway, a prime viewing location. The stage rose about a meter off the ground, and anticipating fan engagement, the organizers had installed two staircases, one on each side of the extension.


    Clutching a bouquet tightly in her hands, Rosie spotted one of the staircases and started toward it. But as soon as she neared the base, two security guards stepped in and blocked her path.


    Rosie blinked in surprise. She hadn¡¯t expected anyone to be watching over the stairs.


    Dalton stood on stage, pouring every ounce of emotion into the song. His voice rose powerfully. Behind him, the backup dancers glided across the stage with wless precision, inching closer to the runway extension. They were about to approach where Rosie stood. Her chest tightened. The moment she¡¯d spent days nning was slipping through her fingers. Every second mattered. But now, with the security guards blocking her path, her whole n was falling apart.


    ¡°I¡¯m Dalton¡¯s sister. I¡¯m just here to give him flowers,¡± Rosie said quickly. But the security guards remained unmoved. Their job was to ensure no one disrupted the performance.


    ¡°Sorry, ma¡¯am. Please step back,¡± one of them said firmly. The security guards knew the concert schedule inside out. They were fully aware that flowers were part of the program, but the person giving them and the timing had been carefully arranged. Letting just anyone walk up on stage would throw everything into chaos.


    ¡°I¡¯m really his sister! Just let me through!¡± Rosie raised her voice, watching Dalton approach with the dancers. She was running out of time. Still, she reminded herself¡ªthis didn¡¯t have to be exact. As long as she got on stage before the concert ended, she could still make it work.


    ¡°I need you to cooperate, ma¡¯am. You¡¯re not allowed to go up the stage from here.¡± The guard didn¡¯t budge.


    Just then, Brenna appeared, gliding up the stage steps with perfect poise. She also held a bouquet. She reached Dalton, who greeted her with a warm smile, epting the flowers and giving her a hug. ¡°Thank you,¡± he said loudly enough for the audience to hear.


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    As nned, Brenna turned and struck a quick pose beside him as a nearby photographer snapped nine clean shots of Dalton and her together in seconds. Employees of Brenna¡¯spany, seated throughout the audience, captured the moment eagerly with their phones.


    Dalton stuck to the n. He had no intention of acknowledging their connection, acting like Brenna was just a stranger. With a polite smile, he asked, ¡°Miss, is there something you¡¯d like to say?¡±


    ¡°Congrattions on your first concert!¡± Brenna said loudly, beaming.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Dalton replied as the crowd erupted into apuse. Brenna stepped down gracefully.


    .


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 Chapter 803

    ?Chapter 803:


    Meanwhile, Rosie was still standing at the base of the stairs,pletely blocked. She watched as Dalton wrapped up the song and started heading back toward the main stage.


    From his seat in the audience, Maxley noticed Rosie¡¯s situation. Without a word, he motioned for his bodyguards to help her.


    The men moved quickly, shoving the security guards aside easily.


    Rosie didn¡¯t hesitate. She bolted up the stairs.


    Dalton, halfway back to the main stage, spotted her. His steps faltered. His eyes darted to the now-toppled security guards and the unfamiliar men holding them down.


    In a split second, he understood¡ªRosie was about to make a scene.


    The dancers reacted fast. With years of training behind them, they instinctively repositioned to form a human barrier to block Rosie. Rosie thought she had finally seeded.


    But the moment she tried to move closer to Dalton, the wall of dancers closed in. Several male performers nked her on all sides, their formation tight and unyielding.


    Nearby security personnel, alerted by the disruption, rushed to the stage.


    Fans in the crowd¡ªespecially those close to the runway¡ªnoticed the disruption almost immediately. It didn¡¯t take long for them to realize someone was causing trouble, and once they did, anger spread like wildfire.


    To them, Dalton wasn¡¯t just a celebrity; he was everything. Their star, their fantasy, their dream man. No one had the right to ruin his big moment.


    Within seconds, some rushed over to stop Rosie.


    The situation quickly spiraled out of control as security guards and fans converged on the stage, trapping Rosie in the middle. The audience couldn¡¯t hear what was being said, but it was clear that the fans were not pleased. They didn¡¯t know who Rosie was, and frankly, they didn¡¯t care. To them, she was just another reckless fan with no respect for Dalton.


    ¡°Get off the stage! Who do you think you are?¡± Their voices were loud, sharp, and unforgiving. Rosie¡¯s eyes frantically scanned the stage, desperate for Dalton¡¯s help. But he had already started his next song, his face calm, as if he didn¡¯t know her at all.


    ¡°Dalton!¡± Rosie screamed, panic in her voice. But her cry was lost in the booming music and the roaring crowd.


    Rosie¡¯s n hadn¡¯t even fully unfolded when she was swiftly ushered off the stage. The bouquet she clutched slipped from her grasp and was crushed under the stampede of security and frenzied fans.


    Below the stage, Maxley¡¯s two bodyguards sprang into action, barreling through the crowd and neutralizing both the fans and security in mere moments.


    Dalton, witnessing the chaos escte, knew Rosie wouldn¡¯t relent until she achieved her goal. As more security swarmed, encircling him for protection, he strode forward.


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 Chapter 804

    ?Chapter 804:


    He gestured to the sound technician to cut the music.


    The venue fell silent in an instant. Across the stage¡¯s extension, Brenna, Thiago, Tommy, and Joe spotted the disturbance and hurried over.


    Brenna¡¯s keen gaze instantly recognized Rosie¡¯s bodyguards as no ordinary hired muscle. Still, she and Thiago were elite in their fighting skills; if a brawl erupted, those two bodyguards wouldn¡¯t stand a chance against them.


    But with thousands of eyes watching in such a public venue, avoiding a fight was the smarter move.


    ¡°What are you trying to do, Rosie?¡± Dalton¡¯s voice was steady, though anger simmered beneath. This was his first concert¡ªdid Rosie really intend to sabotage it?


    On the surface, he stayed cool, shing a smile as he raised the microphone and said to the crowd, ¡°This is my cousin, Rosie, also the princess consort to Prince Maxley of Plieca. Let¡¯s give her a big wee.¡±


    The riled-up audience settled, and some hotheaded fans, poised to confront Rosie and Maxley, sank back into their seats after Dalton¡¯s words.


    Dalton continued, ¡°I know you¡¯re here to celebrate my concert¡¯s sess, Rosie. I appreciate your support; thank you.¡±


    Brenna and Thiago approached the two imposing bodyguards, who bristled, fists clenched, ready for a fight. But the instant their hands grazed Brenna and Thiago, their wrists and shoulders were deftly dislocated, leaving them writhing in agony and utterly incapacitated.


    Stripped of her protectors, Rosie felt uneasy. Without someone to protect her, Dalton wouldn¡¯t let her tarnish the Harper name.


    ¡°Useless! Can¡¯t even handle two people?¡± Rosie¡¯s fury boiled over at the bodyguards, but there was nothing she could do. She was no match for Brenna.


    All she could do was shout, ¡°Those are my guards! They are here to keep me safe. What do you think you¡¯re doing? Let them go!¡±


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    Brenna ignored her, offering only a polite smile. To the distant fans, unable to hear Rosie¡¯s outburst, the big screen showed only Brenna¡¯s smile, suggesting nothing was amiss.


    But the fans nearby murmured, whispering theories about the unfolding drama. Brenna and Thiago escorted the bodyguards offstage, their movements so fluid that, to onlookers, the guards appearedpliant.


    ¡°You can all leave now.¡± With the bodyguards gone and only Rosie and the fans left, Dalton saw no further threat.


    Security guided the fans off the stage in an orderly stream.


    ¡°Rosie, I¡¯ve received your well-wishes. It¡¯s time for you to head back.¡± Dalton kept an eye on Brenna¡¯s actions as he spoke to Rosie.


    Offstage, Brenna dislocated the other shoulder of the bodyguard, rendering himpletely incapable of fighting.


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 Chapter 805

    ?Chapter 805:


    Additional security arrived, leading Maxley¡¯s guards away.


    Maxley, blindsided by the turn of events, rose from his seat and stormed toward Brenna, seething. ¡°Those are my men! You¡¯ve got no right to capture them! Let them go!¡±


    Brenna ced a firm hand on Maxley¡¯s shoulder. In a split second, his strength drained, his shoulder sagging as his body tilted off-bnce.


    From the steps, Thiago issued a sharp warning to Rosie. ¡°Say one wrong word, and Maxley bes a cripple.¡±


    Seeing Maxley in distress, Rosie felt her panic surge, but she didn¡¯t want to abandon her meticulouslyid n. This was her one shot to ruin Dalton and the Harper family; miss it, and she would never get another chance.


    Dalton¡¯s staff rushed up from below the stage. Spotting the scene, they debated calling the authorities.


    The staff recognized Brenna; Dalton had shown them her photo, and they all knew she was supposed to present flowers to Dalton.


    ¡°Miss Harper, what¡¯s going on here?¡± The staff felt the situation was tricky. They didn¡¯t recognize Maxley, but Dalton¡¯s earlier introduction made it clear he was no ordinary figure.


    ¡°This is a private matter of the Harper family. We¡¯ll deal with it ourselves,¡± Brenna replied.


    The staff were frustrated. ¡°But you shouldn¡¯t have made a scene. This looks bad.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not letting them off. Just give me two minutes.¡± Brenna tightened her hold, and Maxley, wincing in pain, crumpled to the floor.


    Nearby fans stayed quiet, harboring no sympathy for the disruptors and offering no aid. They found Brenna¡¯s swift handling of the situation deeply satisfying.


    Dalton passed the microphone over to Rosie. She took another quick nce at Maxley, who looked like he was in unbearable pain. If she pushed Dalton any further, there was a good chance Brenna really would go through with hurting Maxley.


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    With no other option, she had to pretend to be supportive. ¡°Dalton, I hope your concert goes amazingly well. We¡¯ll host a celebration for you tomorrow!¡±


    ¡°Thanks a lot!¡± Dalton gave her a dazzling smile and politely motioned for her to step off the stage.


    Rosie made her way down the steps, and her legs were shaking the whole time. She had never felt so ashamed in her life.


    Music started again, its steady rhythm catching the crowd¡¯s attention instantly. Everyone turned their focus back to Dalton. His voice filled the venue, smooth and gripping, washing away the tension that had hung in the air just moments ago. Whatever had happened earlier no longer seemed to matter.


    Brenna let go of Maxley. He dropped to the floor and stayed down for a long while before managing to push himself up. His face had turned ghostly pale, and he looked like he¡¯d had the life drained out of him. He kept staring at Brenna,pletely stunned. All she had done was touch his shoulder, and everything in his body had shut down. A sh of pain had surged through him, and just like that, all strength had vanished from his body.


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 Chapter 806

    ?Chapter 806:


    But once she took her hand away, the pain disappeared without a trace. It was so strange; it felt unreal.


    Rosie rushed toward Maxley and wrapped an arm around him to keep him steady. Worry clouded her face. ¡°Sweetheart, are you alright? Should we take you to the hospital?¡±


    Though Maxley was slowly regaining his strength, he was still shaking inside. He gave a faint shake of his head and looked at Brenna like she was a demon. ¡°No. I¡¯m okay now.¡±


    Rosie shot Brenna a hateful re. ¡°I¡¯ve already left the stage. Why are you still standing there? What else do you want from us?¡±


    Thiago stood next to Brenna, one hand slipped casually into his pocket. From the opposite side, Ellie and Patrick walked toward them. The four of them ended up standing in a row, and not one of them hid the anger in their eyes as they stared at Rosie.


    ¡°Patrick couldn¡¯t help but say, ¡®You really had the nerve to sabotage Dalton¡¯s concert! You¡¯re despicable! Don¡¯t think Brenna will just let this go!''¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± Brenna didn¡¯t want to teach Rosie a lesson here. She needed to take her somewhere else.


    Rosie locked eyes with Brenna, and Brenna¡¯s gaze was cold.


    ¡°What more do you want? Everything¡¯s over now. I¡¯m not going to stir up trouble anymore. So, what else are you trying to get from me?¡± Rosie and Maxley instinctively took a step back, only to realize their way was blocked. The concert¡¯s security team stood behind them, along with Tommy and Joe.


    There was no way out for them.


    Tommy and Joe hadn¡¯t forgotten what had happened before. Back during that deadly incident in Plieca, Rosie and Maxley had nearly gotten them both killed.


    Now, the resentment came flooding back. Without hesitation, both men shoved Rosie and Maxley forward and said, ¡°Quit wasting time. Keep moving!¡±


    Your escape begins at g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s


    Thiago reached out and took Ellie¡¯s hand with his left, then took Patrick¡¯s with his right. His expression softened as he looked at them. ¡°You two go on and enjoy the rest of the concert. I¡¯lle back once I¡¯m done.¡±


    Ellie gave a silent nod, then led Patrick back to their seats. In her mind, it didn¡¯t seem right for Patrick to witness Thiago getting physical with someone. It would set the wrong kind of example for Patrick.


    Outside the stadium, Brenna didn¡¯t waste a second. Shended a string of harsh, stinging ps across Rosie¡¯s face.


    Rosie¡¯s skin red up almost instantly. Her cheeks ballooned with swelling, and blood trickled from her lips.


    She gently touched her face, stunned by the force of the blows, then looked at Brenna through a film of tears. She had known Brenna might strike her, but she had expected it to happen in private, somewhere far from the eyes of the public. What she also hadn¡¯t anticipated was that Brenna hit her the moment they stepped outside, without giving her a moment to react.


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 Chapter 807

    ?Chapter 807:


    ¡°Who do you think you are to hit me like that?¡± Rosie shouted, her voice shaking with rage.


    Brenna shot her a freezing re, her eyes as sharp as broken ss. ¡°Did you think the Harper family would just stand around while you caused trouble?¡± Rosie could sense the killing intent in Brenna¡¯s voice. But she believed that Brenna wouldn¡¯t go as far as


    Killing her. Taking someone¡¯s life meant facing real consequences, and Brenna wouldn¡¯t destroy her future over such a matter.


    ¡°I haven¡¯t done anything wrong! What gives you the right to say that? All I did was speak honestly. And now, everyone¡¯s turning against me, and I¡¯m not even allowed to open my mouth?¡± Deep down, Rosie knew exactly what she had done, and she understood why Brenna was furious.


    ¡°Are you trying to bring down the Harper family?¡± Brenna pulled out her phone and held it up, showing Rosie the post. ¡°Do you even understand what kind of fallout your foolish actions might cause for you?¡±


    Rosie let out a sharpugh.


    ¡°Foolish? I actually think my actions were smart. Just wait. You¡¯ll find out soon. I¡¯ve got plenty of surprises ready for you.¡±


    Brenna didn¡¯t bother giving weight to that threat. From her point of view, Rosie¡¯s little ns were sloppy and childish. Dealing with her was easy.


    ¡°So was that disaster earlier one of your so-called surprises?¡± Brenna asked with a mocking edge. ¡°Do you really believe that pulling a stunt like that and throwing out baseless ims at Dalton¡¯s concert would actually turn people against him? Do you think his fans are stupid? They came to support him. Who do you think they¡¯ll side with, you or the person they admire? You¡¯re so foolish that you can¡¯t even realize it yourself.¡±


    Brenna gave her onest icy stare before returning to the stadium to watch the concert.


    Rosie stayed frozen in ce, dazed.


    ¡°She didn¡¯t even ask me to delete the post? Is she stupid or something?¡±


    Find your favorite stories at g ? ln ¦Ò ¦Í?? ??s., conn


    Maxley no longer felt any pain, and his body had fully recovered. As he looked out at the glowing stadium lights in the night, a heavy sense of disappointment settled over him because of everything that had unraveled that day.


    ¡°Rosie, we¡¯ve failed.¡± He took out his phone and held it out for Rosie to see. ¡°The Harper Group released a statement thatpletely buried our post. Thement section is full of people tearing us apart, and now, that old incident at the intersection has gone viral again. We¡¯re aughingstock!¡±


    Rosie flicked through thements with rapid swipes. The photos from the incident at the intersection showed up everywhere, taken from nearly every direction.


    ¡°Who told them to leak this? Was it Ernst? He¡¯s my brother. He looked out for me for years. How could he turn on me like this?¡±


    Rosie scrolled through more photos, stunned to see even the things she and Maxley had done back in Plieca being dragged into the open. The flood of insults pouring through thements made her feel crushed, her spirit drained, and her mind rattled.


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 Chapter 808

    ?Chapter 808:


    Seeing her like this, Maxley said, ¡°This has to be the Harper family working behind the scenes. The Pliecan royal family had already sealed off that story. There¡¯s no way the people in Vand would¡¯ve found out without someone powerful feeding them the information. Who else would have that kind of influence except the Harpers?¡±


    He was just as disheartened. He was on someone else¡¯s turf; it was impossible to win over the public.


    He said, ¡°Rosie, just delete the post. We¡¯lle up with a different n.¡±


    Rosie stomped her foot and let out a scream, wild with rage. From where a nearby security guard stood, she lookedpletely mad. She opened her social media app and deleted the post right away.


    A hollow ache filled her chest. Why couldn¡¯t she win against Brenna and her family? She had put in so much effort. She even knew where they were vulnerable. So why did she still end up losing? Why?


    She couldn¡¯t wrap her head around it and refused to ept the oue. And she had no intention of giving up, either. If she couldn¡¯t reim her shares, she wouldn¡¯t let others get them, either.


    She had made detailed preparations, carefully nning for every possible setback. Even Maxley¡¯s two strongest bodyguards had been brought along for protection. Yet, Brenna and Thiago had taken the bodyguards down without breaking a sweat.


    She nced at the two bodyguards, whose arms still dangled uselessly, and eximed, ¡°So useless!¡±


    Meanwhile, back inside the stadium, the fans were buzzing with excitement. Dalton had even surprised them with a guest appearance from one of the country¡¯s most beloved female singers. The crowd was electric.


    The concert ran for over three hours. By the time Brenna returned home, it was already past two in the morning.


    When she opened her eyes the next morning, her phone was filled with messages from Dalton. He thanked her for having his back the night before and insisted on treating her to a meal.


    g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s??§àm, where stories thrive


    ¡°There¡¯s no need for that. We¡¯re family, aren¡¯t we?¡± Brenna replied.


    Brenna realized she didn¡¯t actually know much about Dalton, even after returning to the family. What little she had heard told her he was a top-tier celebrity. She had seen a few of his films and shows¡ªhis acting was impressive. What she hadn¡¯t expected was how well he could sing and dance, too.


    Curious, she pulled out her phone and did a quick search. What she found was a long list of credits dating back to when he had just been about eight years old. Though many of his early roles hadn¡¯t made waves, his experience was undeniable.


    All things considered, he was highly talented.


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 Chapter 809

    ?Chapter 809:


    Just then, a knock echoed from the door.


    Giselle stepped into the room after knocking and made her way to the bed, where she sat down. ¡°How did the concert gost night?¡±


    With a warm smile, Brenna rested her head on Giselle¡¯sp. ¡°Great. I had no idea Dalton was that talented. He really knows how to put on a show. He has a great voice, smooth dance moves, a handsome face, and he can act, too. He¡¯s got the whole package.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s eyes lit up with pride. ¡°He¡¯s been passionate about acting ever since he was little. He was always drawn to performing. To follow that dream, he took every kind of ss you can imagine. He works incredibly hard and will pick up any skill just to prepare for a role. You should see his room; it¡¯s packed with certificates.¡±


    Giselle felt nothing but pride. Every one of her three children had turned out exceptional.


    She said to Brenna, ¡°Come on, you need to get up now. Ableson called again about the prosthetic limb. Audrey¡¯s here in person; she¡¯s waiting downstairs.¡± Brenna sat upright.


    Brenna continued rummaging through her closet for something to wear, still moving at a slow pace.


    ¡°I¡¯ll head down and keep Audreypany. Don¡¯t take too long,¡± said Giselle as she made her way out of the room.


    A few minutester, Brenna came downstairs as well.


    ¡°Brenna, I hope I didn¡¯t wake you up?¡± Audrey said with a cheerful smile.


    ¡°Not at all. I was already getting ready,¡± replied Brenna, handing her a rolled-up blueprint. ¡°Here¡¯s the design. The manufacturer¡¯s already on it. It should be finished in about a week.¡±


    Audrey looked closely at the blueprint, studying every detail. It wasn¡¯t new to her; Brenna had already shown it to Ableson and her afterpleting the draft, and he had been more than satisfied with it.


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    ¡°I really appreciate this,¡± said Audrey, her tone sincere.


    Brenna said, ¡°This versiones with an intelligent assistance system, so once it¡¯s built, we¡¯ll need time to test and calibrate everything. I think they¡¯ve already started the testing process. Just ask your father to give them a few more days.¡±


    Just then, her phone started ringing. She nced down at the screen. The number wasn¡¯t familiar, but it didn¡¯t look like a scam, either, so she answered. Neville¡¯s voice came through on the other end. ¡°Miss Harper, Mr. Mitchell is in a social engagement. Could youe over?¡±


    Brenna couldn¡¯t shake the sense that something was off with Ethan. She had known him long enough to be familiar with how jam-packed his days typically were. With constant invites from friends, business partners, and social circles pulling him toward dinners and drinks, he was busy every day. Yet, never once had he asked her to go and help him with it like this.


    ¡°Is something the matter?¡± Brenna asked, her tone filled with concern.


    Neville kept quiet for several seconds, clearly hesitant to answer. The truth wasn¡¯t exactly easy to share, and he feared that revealing it might make Brenna decline the request.


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 Chapter 810

    ?Chapter 810:


    Brenna understood that Ethan needed her help. ¡°Send me the location,¡± she said firmly. ¡°I¡¯ll head there now.¡±


    A wave of relief came through Neville¡¯s voice. ¡°Thank you. I¡¯ll forward it immediately. Please hurry.¡±


    The issue Ethan was facing wasn¡¯t catastrophic, but it couldn¡¯t be handled without Brenna being there.


    Inside a luxurious private room at the high-end Elysium Lounge, Ethan sat sunk into a rich leather couch, positioned directly across from a man who appeared to be in his forties. Between them sat a sleek table cluttered with several luxurious bottles of wine, each valued at well over one hundred thousand dors. Their sses, brimming with deep red liquid, shimmered under the glow of the lights.


    The man across from Ethan had a rugged, tough look. A thick beard covered the lower half of his face, and a shy gold chain hung heavily around his neck, practically shouting his wealth. Three massive gemstone rings decorated his left hand, each one sitting on a different finger.


    He carried himself with loud, unchecked arrogance. Two women nked him, barely dressed, their bodies leaning against the sides of the sofa. One of his hands was busy groping one of the women¡¯s chests, showing zero regard for the people around him.


    Lining one wall of the room was a group of nearly fifteen club escorts. Every single one was striking, their curves barely concealed by their revealing outfits. Some boldly flirted without shame, striking seductive poses with deliberate intent. Others went even further, revealing themselves openly without hesitation. Their dresses were so short that one could easily notice many of them had skipped wearing any undergarments.


    Ethan kept his face cold. ¡°Mr. Debenham, we¡¯re here to talk business. This doesn¡¯t require femalepany.¡±


    His voice remained steady as he continued, ¡°My girlfriend doesn¡¯t take things like this lightly.¡±


    On Percy Debenham¡¯s left, the woman lounging beside him took a sip of wine before transferring it to his lips in a slow, mouth-to-mouth exchange. They stayed entangled in that intimate gesture for a while,pletely ignoring the rest of the room. Had there been no one watching, she might have stripped downpletely without a second thought.


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    Percy let out a scornful snort, clearly finding Ethan¡¯s restraintughable. To Percy, Ethan¡¯s disy of decency came off as a facade. In his view, a man as affluent and influential as Ethan couldn¡¯t possibly be living a life of restraint. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re the kind of man who forgets how to have fun just because you¡¯re already in a rtionship. Men are expected to unwind a little when they¡¯re out like this. Choose two women to enjoy, and we can move forward to discuss the deal.¡±


    After a pause, he added with a teasing grin, ¡°You¡¯ve got youth on your side. Two might not even be enough to satisfy you. Why not take four? These women know exactly how to please. I promise you won¡¯t regret it.¡±


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 Chapter 811

    ?Chapter 811:


    Ethan was unmoved. His eyes stayed on the bottles of wine lined up on the table, his expression giving away nothing. This wasn¡¯t the first time he¡¯d been in this kind of situation.


    ¡°Mr. Debenham, I do understand your hospitality, but I¡¯ll have to decline. If my girlfriend ever found out about this, she¡¯d break up with me,¡± he said.


    Percy erupted intoughter, but his eyes darkened with a sinister glint. He had always operated this way, forcing others into his world of excess. His lifestyle revolved around indulgence, and he held a special kind of disdain for men like Ethan, who put on an act of restraint.


    Did Ethan think he was fooling anyone?


    In Percy¡¯s mind, every wealthy man had already tasted luxury in the form of countless women.


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell, if you can¡¯t go along with the fun, I¡¯m afraid we¡¯ll have no deal.¡± Percy tilted his head slightly, a new thought seemingly crossing his mind. ¡°Or maybe none of thesedies suit your taste?¡±


    He waved his hand toward the line of women. ¡°Get out of here! Bring in some new faces.¡±


    The women looked disappointed, but none of them dared to argue. They knew full well that getting dismissed meant missing their chance to earn big from these wealthy clients. Even so, they had toply and leave.


    Ethan felt the tension ease just a little as the group of women exited, though the two women clinging to Percy still made his skin crawl.


    He said, ¡°Mr. Debenham, you¡¯re sitting in my territory tonight, and in here, we y by my rules. You¡¯re wee to have your fun, but don¡¯t drag me into it. After all, I already have a girlfriend.¡±


    At this point, Ethan had no better option than to mention Brenna.


    It didn¡¯t take long for the door to swing open again. This time, a different group of young women stepped into the room. Their outfits were a bit more reserved, and they carried themselves with a sense of innocence.


    A smug, overweight manager followed closely behind, his grin ttering. ¡°Mr. Debenham, Mr. Mitchell,¡± he said with obvious pride. ¡°These girls are virgins. Clean but trained well enough to meet any expectations you might have.¡± This new group also numbered around fifteen. While their clothing wasn¡¯t quite revealing, their youthful looks gave them a different kind of charm.


    ¡°So, Mr. Mitchell, do these women look more like your type?¡± Percy asked with a sly smile. ¡°Pick a few. We can talk business while enjoying ourselves. If you don¡¯t, it¡¯ll seem like you¡¯re not serious about this deal.¡±


    Ethan threw every insult he could think of at Percy inside his head. But on the outside, he kept calm.


    Standing up from his seat, he said, ¡°If that¡¯s how it¡¯s going to be, then we¡¯re done here. I can find other suppliers in Eshowana without any trouble.¡±


    When Brenna reached the Elysium Lounge, the clock hadn¡¯t struck noon yet. Two security guards stopped her right at the entrance.


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 Chapter 812

    ?Chapter 812:


    One of them stepped forward and asked, ¡°Miss, are you here for entertainment or looking for someone?¡±


    Brenna gave them a cool look. The way they stood¡ªfirm and alert¡ªsuggested they had either received training in fighting or had a military background. Choosing not to create any trouble, she answered their question and provided the private room number where Ethan was supposed to be.


    One guard spoke into the inte on his shoulder. After checking with someone on the sixth floor, he finally stepped aside and let Brenna through. The moment Brenna stepped inside, she was hit by the overwhelming disy of wealth mixed with indecency. Even in the elevator, a half-dressed woman clung to a man¡¯s side while his hands roamed her back without shame. Neither of them seemed to care who was watching.


    Brenna, repulsed, reached into her purse, pulled out a mask, and slipped it over her face. She also put on sunsses, as if shielding herself from what she was looking at.


    A deep crease formed between her brows. Why on earth would Ethan choose a ce like this for business?


    Suddenly, a thought struck her hard¡ªwas Neville calling her here to pull Ethan out of some woman¡¯s bed?


    She hated everything about this ce. Once the elevator doors slid open on the sixth floor, her senses were assaulted again. Both sides of the hallway were lined with women in provocative outfits, leaning casually against the walls. The thick smell of cheap perfume hung heavy in the air, enough to make her stomach turn.


    The women, dressed to draw every eye, looked more like items up for sale. They lined the hallway on either side, silent, ready to be called the moment someone took an interest in them.


    They all nced at Brenna, eyes full of envy, noting her graceful presence and the designer outfit she wore.


    Brenna was dressed neatly, appearing somewhat out of ce here. With narrowed eyes, she scanned the hall for Neville.


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    ¡°Miss Harper, over here.¡± Neville¡¯s voice came from a few steps away. His face was serious, and his tone was apologetic. ¡°I¡¯m really sorry to drag you into a ce like this, but I didn¡¯t have any other option. If you don¡¯te, I don¡¯t know how Mr. Mitchell could get out of here without doing anything indecent.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s mood darkened further, and her face grew colder. ¡°Why would he choose to be in a ce like this?¡±


    Neville lowered his voice as he responded, ¡°We didn¡¯t have much of a choice. The client demanded it. This deal involves tens of billions and affects severalpanies in Eshowana. If it weren¡¯t for the stakes, we would¡¯ve picked a proper ce for the meeting ourselves. Once you¡¯re inside, you have to act mad and scold Mr. Mitchell.¡±


    As they moved toward the room, Neville continued, giving more details.


    ¡°Whatever you see in there, don¡¯t really get angry with Mr. Mitchell. The main thing is getting him out of this. He shows up at a lot of business events, sure, but he¡¯s never once gone near other women. He actually finds that stuff disgusting. You have to believe him.¡±


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 Chapter 813

    ?Chapter 813:


    Neville¡¯s attempt to reassure Brenna only made things worse. The pit in her stomach deepened. The more he spoke, the more convinced she became that she was about to witness something she didn¡¯t want to see.


    They stopped in front of a private room. Neville opened the door and stepped aside to let Brenna walk in.


    What met Brenna¡¯s eyes was absolutely vile. A man in a spotless white suit lounged on the sofa with a heavy gold chain around his neck, his arms wrapped around two young women. His hand was already creeping beneath one woman¡¯s skirt.


    The sight made Brenna feel sick.


    Ethan sat a few feet away, a ss of red wine resting in his hand. He wasn¡¯t drinking it. He swirled it slowly, his face cold.


    Standing in the center was a line of beautiful, young women.


    If Neville hadn¡¯t given her a warning ahead of time, Brenna would have turned around, walked out, and ended things with Ethan right then and there.


    Ethan wasn¡¯t expecting to see Brenna here.


    ¡°Now this one¡¯s a knockout!¡± Percy shoved the two women beside him aside and leaned forward, waving Brenna over. ¡°Come here, sweetheart. You¡¯re absolutely breathtaking.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s face darkened immediately. His voice was low and sharp. ¡°That¡¯s my girlfriend.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s brows furrowed, her gaze locked onto Ethan. She didn¡¯t hesitate for even a second before asking, ¡°So you brought all these women here to entertain you? Is this your way of breaking up with me?¡±


    She kept Neville¡¯s advice in mind¡ªthat she had to be stern with Ethan. At first, she had thought it felt a little too harsh to scold Ethan right after walking in. But after witnessing the scene in front of her, she believed that what Neville had told her to do was the right move. Without hesitation, she raised her hand and pped Ethan across the face. ¡°You really had the nerve toe to a ce like this behind my back? Disgusting. I¡¯m done with you!¡±


    Percy was caught off guard by this. His interest in Brenna cooled for a moment, though her stunning looks still held his attention. ¡°Miss, please don¡¯t get the wrong idea. If this deal goes through, you¡¯ll have enough to live a life of luxury. This is just what men always do. Mr. Mitchell will need to attend these kinds of events more in the future. Are you really going to be upset every time?¡±


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    Brenna turned and pped Percy across the face without even blinking. ¡°Did I say you could speak? I¡¯m talking to my boyfriend. Who do you think you are to butt in? Stay out of it!¡±


    There was no mistaking the disgust in her voice when she spoke to him.


    She grabbed Ethan by the arm and yanked him toward the door.


    Ethan didn¡¯t resist. He had already had enough of this ce and was more than ready to leave.


    Percy moved to block their path and shouted at the women in the room, ¡°All of you, get out!¡±


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 Chapter 814

    ?Chapter 814:


    Within seconds, the room cleared, leaving only Percy, Ethan, and Brenna inside. Though Brenna felt slightly better, she still couldn¡¯t stand being near Percy. Any man who could arrange something like this wasn¡¯t someone she had even a shred of respect for.


    Brenna red at him and said, ¡°Don¡¯te near me.¡±


    Ethan stepped in front of Brenna, shielding her from Percy. ¡°Percy, I¡¯m not doing this deal with you anymore. Go find someone else. I care about my girlfriend, and I won¡¯t sacrifice my rtionship with her for money. We¡¯re done here.¡±


    ¡°Hold on, Mr. Mitchell. Your girlfriend is quite special. Why not introduce us?¡± Percy¡¯s eyes lingered on Brenna, filled with a mix of admiration and something far less respectful. Her striking face, her cold demeanor, and her perfect figure made her unforgettable in his eyes.


    Ethan could have handled the entire negotiation on his own. He was pushing Percy¡¯s limits, testing just how desperate the man really was to offload his unseble cache of weapons.


    With the right connections and the demand, Ethan held all the leverage, knowing that Percy couldn¡¯t afford to walk away from the deal. But now, his mind was preupied with something else. Percy was a lecherous man with a ruthless streak. Ethan couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that Percy was interested in Brenna, and that worried him. He feared Percy might cause trouble for her.


    The moment Brenna caught Percy¡¯s gaze on her, a wave of regret swept over her. Taking off her mask and sunsses at the entrance had been a mistake. Now, she could feel his eyes crawling over her like insects. Gripping Ethan¡¯s hand, she tugged him toward the door. ¡°Let¡¯s get out of here. We don¡¯t need him. There are other suppliers.¡±


    Before they could leave, Percy grabbed Ethan¡¯s sleeve with a forced grin. ¡°No need to rush off, Mr. Mitchell. Let¡¯s talk business somewhere else¡ªyour choice of venue.¡±


    Although his words were directed at Ethan, his gaze kept returning to Brenna as if he couldn¡¯t help himself.


    Ethan immediately stepped in front of Brenna, blocking Percy¡¯s gaze with his body. ¡°Alright.¡±


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    With that, Brenna took a small step back, satisfied that she¡¯d achieved her goal. But she wasn¡¯t finished yet. Coldly, she hissed under her breath, ¡°Next time you do something like this, we¡¯re done.¡±


    Laughing nervously, Ethan raised both hands in surrender. ¡°I won¡¯t do anything like this again. I¡¯ll behave. I swear.¡± Only after that did Brenna finally leave.


    As they made their way to a new location to discuss the deal, Percy kept up the pretense of politeness. But his hands were already busy texting instructions to his men¡ªhe wanted to know everything there was to know about Brenna.


    Back at home, Brenna didn¡¯t say a word. She went upstairs as soon as she arrived. Julia, noticing the storm cloud on her face, quietly followed behind.


    ¡°Miss Harper,¡± she said gently. ¡°Is everything alright? You look like something¡¯s really bothering you.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s face was dark. Although she hadn¡¯t voiced her displeasure to anyone, it was clear to Julia that something was weighing heavily on her.


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 Chapter 815

    ?Chapter 815:


    Ethan earlier had deeply upset Brenna with the way he conducted business. With his status, did he really need to lower himself to negotiate with people like Percy? Surely, he wasn¡¯t in need of money. Couldn¡¯t he just walk away from such business partners? What could possibly justify going to a ce like that?


    ¡°I¡¯m fine,¡± Brenna said. ¡°I¡¯m going to shower and get rid of these clothes.¡± Her words were clipped, her mood souring with every passing thought. Helping Ethan didn¡¯t mean she wasn¡¯t furious with him.


    She felt as though the stench of that room still clung to her. The man in white had made her skin crawl. Out of everyone she¡¯d ever encountered, he was by far the most repulsive. A wave of disgust swept through Brenna.


    Julia¡¯s eyes dropped to Brenna¡¯s clothes¡ªa sharp khaki trenchyered over an elegant beige dress. She remembered that the outfit was brand new, something Brenna had bought only days ago.


    ¡°It seems such a shame. These are gorgeous,¡± Julia murmured.


    ¡°They¡¯re tainted. Throw them away,¡± Brenna said, her tone leaving no room for discussion. She stepped into her room and began to remove her clothes. From the wardrobe, Julia quietly pulled out a bathrobe and handed it over before stepping out to give Brenna some privacy.


    Not long after, Brenna¡¯s voice rang out from behind the door. ¡°You cane in now.¡±


    Julia returned, gathered the discarded clothes, and turned to leave without another word.


    Brenna stopped her and said, ¡°Everything I just wore, throw it all away.¡±


    Though she didn¡¯t know exactly what had happened, Julia could sense something serious had gone down. Brenna¡¯s angry expression was enough to silence any questions. Quietly, Julia gathered the undergarments and tights left on the bed. She hesitated. Tossing them out like this didn¡¯t sit right with her; what if some creep found them?


    ¡°I¡¯ll cut them to pieces first before throwing them away,¡± Julia said.


    Brenna gave a nod and disappeared into the bathroom.


    After her shower, Brenna noticed a message from Ethan. It was a photo of a private room in another upscale club. The room was empty except for Ethan, Percy, and their respective bodyguards.


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    She didn¡¯t reply.


    Soon after, a knock sounded on the door, and Julia stepped inside. Spotting Brenna in a noticeably better mood, she gave her an update. ¡°I cut everything into tiny scraps and got rid of them. No one¡¯s picking those up.¡±


    Meanwhile, Ethan sat stiffly across from Percy, mid-negotiation, but his mind wasn¡¯t fully present. His eyes kept darting to his phone. Half an hour had passed, and still no response from Brenna.


    Worry gnawed at him. Maybe she was upset that he¡¯d gone to that ce for business. Or maybe it wasn¡¯t just anger¡ªperhaps she was rethinking everything. She might want to break up with him.


    He knew Brenna¡¯s standards well. To her, integrity mattered far more than wealth or power. And right now, he wasn¡¯t sure he lived up to the man she had believed him to be.


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 Chapter 816

    ?Chapter 816:


    Sliding a ss of red wine across the table, Percy shed a grin. ¡°You can say no to a woman, but turning down fine wine? That would be a crime.¡±


    Without waiting for a response, he epted a folder his assistant handed over and pushed it toward Ethan. ¡°My current inventory is all in here. Whatever you need, I can source it. In Eshowana, there¡¯s nothing I can¡¯t get done.¡±


    Ethan took the document without a word, his expression unreadable as he reviewed it. It was indeed a very tempting deal.


    Leaning back with a smug tilt of his head, Percy continued, ¡°This deal is a win-win for us.¡±


    With a slow nod, Ethan finally spoke. ¡°We¡¯ll still need to discuss the pricing.¡±


    Immediately, Percy¡¯s easygoing tone shifted. A slight frown creased his forehead. ¡°This is already the lowest price. Honestly, if my previous business partner hadn¡¯t suddenly died, I wouldn¡¯t even be looking to partner with you. The price is non-negotiable.¡±


    Inside a stylish, softly lit coffee shop, Isabe carefully ced her phone on the table and nudged it toward the woman across from her. A self-satisfied smirk tugged at her lips as her gaze lingered on the photo on the screen.


    Seated beside her, Tina leaned over for a look, and her expression immediately soured. Disyed on the phone was a photo of Ethan with two provocatively dressed women clinging to him in a dimly lit lounge.


    ¡°This edited photo is way too much,¡± she muttered, her lips tightening. ¡°I don¡¯t want my future husband dragged through the mud like this.¡±


    Unbothered by Tina¡¯s disapproval, Isabe simply shrugged. ¡°It¡¯s the only way topletely tank Ethan¡¯s image. Once that happens, Brenna will leave him. Otherwise, they won¡¯t break up. Do you still want to marry Ethan or not?¡±


    The question made Tina falter. Her brows knitted together, concern shadowing her eyes. ¡°Of course, I still want to marry him,¡± she said, ¡°But not through something this low. Smearing his name just feels wrong.¡±


    A short, derisiveugh slipped from Isabe¡¯s lips. ¡°Feeling protective of him already? Let¡¯s not get ahead of ourselves, Tina. For all you know, Ethan won¡¯t even look your way now. You think he¡¯ll care whether you want to protect his image or not?¡±


    Heat surged in Tina¡¯s eyes as she shot a re at Isabe. ¡°Spare me your sarcasm. Maybe you should spend more time focusing on Denis. How many women has he been with now? You really think you¡¯re the one he¡¯ll settle down with?¡±


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    Isabe was well aware of Denis¡¯ numerous affairs. She knew he had bought houses and cars for other women, but she didn¡¯t care. Among all of Denis¡¯ women, Isabe considered herself the most useful to him. She believed she had a real chance of bing his wife someday. When that day came, she nned to deal with the other women one by one.


    When Tina struck a nerve, Isabe didn¡¯t hesitate tosh back. ¡°Maybe you should fix your own situation before digging into mine. If Denis keeps mistresses, that¡¯s his decision, and it doesn¡¯t bother me in the slightest. But your Ethan? He won¡¯t even look at you. Let that sink in.¡±


    Rosie, sitting nearby, ignored their bickering. She picked up the phone on the table and studied the edited photos.


    Delight flickered in her eyes as she flicked through the photos, each one more damning than thest. One swipe after another revealed images of provocatively dressed women draped over Ethan, followed by a particrly incriminating shot¡ªhis arm wrapped around one of them.


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 Chapter 817

    ?Chapter 817:


    Rosie said to Isabe, ¡°Upload the photos. Say that the CEO of the Mitchell Group is openly engaging in soliciting prostitution. Think of a caption that¡¯s as explosive as possible.¡±


    She exhaled slowly, her voice dropping to a near murmur. ¡°Let¡¯s see how fast Brenna walks away from Ethan after seeing this. I¡¯m curious if the Harper family will still ept him as their future son-inw. If Brenna thinks taking me on will be easy, she¡¯s sorely mistaken.¡±


    No sooner had Rosie finished than Isabe took back her phone, her thumbs already flying across the screen to write a caption.


    From the sidelines, Tina narrowed her eyes at the wording on Isabe¡¯s post. ¡°That sounds way too harsh. You¡¯re turning him into some yboy. If you put it like that, his whole reputation¡¯s going to tank. Ande on, everyone in Shirie knows Ethan is reserved when ites to romance. Who¡¯s even going to believe this?¡±


    With a flick of her wrist, Isabe waved off the concern. ¡°That¡¯s exactly why they¡¯ll believe it. Nothing grabs attention like contradiction. Ethan¡¯s reputation will copse, and people will see him for the hypocrite he truly is. All that restraint he¡¯s shown before? It was just an act.¡±


    Tina scoffed. ¡°Still doesn¡¯t sit right with me. You can¡¯t just say whatever you want.¡±


    Isabe rolled her eyes at her. ¡°Why do you care so much? You think Ethan¡¯s going to thank you for this? He¡¯ll probably just think you¡¯re annoying.¡±


    Though Tina burned with anger, deep down, she had to admit that Isabe had a point.


    Before the tension could escte further, Rosie stepped in and said, ¡°Let¡¯s not overthink this. First, we post; then, we wait. See how Ethan reacts and how Brenna responds. And Tina, you don¡¯t need to worry about this. If tonight goes as nned, you¡¯ll end up in Ethan¡¯s bed. Just y the victim afterward. Trust me, Brenna will definitely break up with him then.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s fingers brushed her cheek, still tingling faintly from Brenna¡¯s ps earlier. Since Brenna had caused her pain, she would make her pay dearly. She wouldn¡¯t stop until Brenna¡¯s world crumbled piece by piece.


    Once Isabe finished typing, she slid her phone across the table. ¡°Here, Rosie. Read this. Let me know if anything needs tweaking.¡± Taking the phone with a cool nod.


    Rosiebed through the post, making a few strategic edits before handing it back. ¡°This version works. You can post it now.¡±


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    Without hesitation, Isabe uploaded the post. Then, Rosie called a social media manager and spent over a million dors to ensure the post would trend.


    With coffee cups in hand and smirks barely concealed, the three sat back to watch the drama unfold.


    In less than an hour, the post exploded, racking up views in the tens of thousands, with ament section that wouldn¡¯t stop growing. The tform gave it a generous push, amplifying its reach to even more people.


    Gripping her phone, Rosie feared that Brenna might miss the scandalous post, so she made sure it wouldn¡¯t happen by sending the link to Brenna directly.


    At first, Brenna nned to dismiss Rosie¡¯s message without a second nce. But the headline attached to the link tugged at her curiosity, and almost without thinking, she tapped it open.


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 Chapter 818

    ?Chapter 818:


    Seven photos filled the screen. The first one hit like a punch¡ªEthan, his armszily draped around two women, one of whom was lifting a drink to his lips. Brenna¡¯s first reaction was that the photos were edited; they couldn¡¯t possibly be real.


    But then, a thought crept in. Could this have happened before she had arrived at the private room? Had Ethan really done something like this?


    As Brenna scrolled through the photos, her expression grew colder. After staring at the post for a long time, she forwarded it to Ethan, waiting for his exnation.


    But ten minutes passed, and there was no response from Ethan.


    Brenna paused, herposure steady, before clicking the link again and zooming in on the image for a closer inspection. As she suspected, the inconsistencies were ring. She scrutinized the lighting and shadows, which unequivocally revealed that the photo had been edited.


    Relief washed over her, easing the knot in her mind. Still, she resolved to caution Ethan when the opportunity arose. Some deals, especially those tangled with dubious characters, simply weren¡¯t worth the risk.


    Though she was certain Ethan hadn¡¯t betrayed her, irritation lingered. She exited the post, unwilling to dwell on it further.


    Meanwhile, Ethan and Percy had been drinking for over two hours, finally sealing the hefty contract. After chatting for a while, they went their separate ways.


    Ethan, feeling the buzz of alcohol, moved with uneven steps. At the entrance, he courteously said goodbye to Percy, who was in worse shape than him, wobbling as he tried to keep his bnce.


    Ethan scanned the area for Neville, but he was nowhere in sight, nor could he see any of his bodyguards.


    His brow furrowed. Neville, who had been by his side for years, never abandoned his post without permission. The bodyguards, too, were dependable, always ensuring at least one remained present, even for brief absences like a restroom break.


    Something was clearly wrong.


    Ethan dialed Neville¡¯s number. ¡°Where are you?¡±


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    The sound of a toilet flushing preceded Neville¡¯s apologetic voice. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, I¡¯m sorry. The others and I are dealing with stomach issues. We think the water we drank earlier was off. Please wait for us; we¡¯ll be back shortly.¡±


    Ethan ended the call and propped himself against the wall, waiting for Neville¡¯s return. From the next room, Tina emerged, lingering at the doorway, discreetly watching Ethan.


    Ethan¡¯s tall, striking figure was made even more captivating by the slight crease in his brow, his features softened by the alcohol¡¯s haze.


    Tina approached, catching the faint scent of liquor on him. She sauntered down the hallway, feigning a casual stroll, but her pulse quickened as she noted Ethan¡¯s state.


    In a tipsy state, a reckless urge surged within Tina to close the distance between her and Ethan, to peel away his clothes.


    Pretending to be startled, she stopped when she was near him. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, what are you doing out here?¡±


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 Chapter 819

    ?Chapter 819:


    She waited for his reply, knowing his team was preupied. She had tampered with their water, ensuring they would not stay by Ethan¡¯s side, possibly even needing medical attention. She was confident he would ept her feigned concern.


    Ethan nced at his phone, still awaiting Neville. A minute ticked by, and Neville still hadn¡¯t appeared.


    Growing concerned, Ethan started toward the restroom, his gait unsteady.


    Tina stepped into his path. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, are you alright? You don¡¯t look steady. Let me get you home.¡±


    Though Ethan had drunk heavily, he was far from incapacitated. He recognized Tina¡¯s intentions¡ªshe wasn¡¯t the first to try such tactics. With a rough shove, he snapped, ¡°Get lost!¡±


    Tina swallowed her irritation but persisted. ¡°You¡¯re stumbling like this; you clearly need someone to look after you. Don¡¯t be so stubborn. You¡¯ve always been kind to my brother, so why don¡¯t you let me take care of you now? I¡¯m just trying to help.¡±


    As she tugged at him, Ethan staggered, nearly losing his bnce. Tina seized the moment, slipping her arms around his waist, the warm notes of his cologne enveloping her, making her reluctant to release him.


    ¡°Let go!¡± Ethan growled, exasperated, trying to wrench her hands away. To anyone watching, though, they looked like they were embracing. Tina took advantage of the situation, clinging to Ethan and trying to kiss him on the face.


    Despite the alcohol¡¯s haze, Ethan¡¯s mind remained sharp. He jerked his head aside, dodging her advance, and barked, ¡°Have you no shame?¡±


    Tina clung tighter, saying, ¡°Even when you¡¯re drunk, you¡¯re still so strong. What¡¯s wrong with me holding you? I¡¯m not even upset that you¡¯reing onto me, and you¡¯re pushing me away?¡±


    From the shadows, a man in a suit stealthily captured several photos. Though the alcohol slowed Ethan¡¯s reflexes and sapped some of his strength, he was still far stronger than Tina. It didn¡¯t take long for him to push her away, shouting, ¡°Get lost!¡±


    Tina nced toward the suited man lurking at the entrance of another room, who shed an ¡°OK¡± signal. Satisfied, she decided to give up on further pestering Ethan.


    She said, ¡°I was only trying to help. You¡¯re clearly drunk, and your people aren¡¯t even around. But if you¡¯re going to be ungrateful, fine. Don¡¯t me me if you trip and hurt yourselfter.¡±


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    She smoothed her outfit and strode toward the elevator. The suited man slipped in behind her, showing her the photos he had taken. She grinned, impressed. ¡°No wonder you¡¯re an entertainment reporter. Your angles are brilliant¡ªit really looks like Ethan was holding me.¡±


    Several minutes passed before Neville finally showed up, looking like he was in serious distress. Clutching his stomach with a grimace, he muttered, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Mr. Mitchell. I feel awful. I really can¡¯t drive right now. I¡¯ve got to get to the restroom again.¡±


    Whatever was bothering him clearly wasn¡¯t letting up. His face twisted in pain before he bolted back toward the restroom. Before going inside, he called out to Ethan, ¡°I¡¯ve already called a designated driver for you. You can leave on your own.¡±


    Ethan hovered near the doorway, his brow furrowed with suspicion. Something about this didn¡¯t sit right. Neville might have been set up. A few bodyguards rushed out momentster, gave Ethan a rushed exnation, and then returned to the restroom.


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 Chapter 820

    ?Chapter 820:


    One person falling sick could be a coincidence, but several, all at once? Clearly, someone was behind this.


    Was Percy behind this, hoping to teach him a lesson? Or was someone else ying their own game?


    Ethan made a mental note to find out about itter.


    Dragging himself into the elevator, he leaned against the mirrored wall, visibly unsteady. Inside, a small group of women immediately took notice of him. His distant look and flushed cheeks, paired with his striking features, intrigued them.


    The women daringly sidled up to him.


    ¡°Hey there, gorgeous. How about we go upstairs and have a little fun?¡± one said, her sultry voice barely louder than a whisper, her lips nearly brushing his cheek.


    With zero patience left, Ethan shoved her back with a scowl. ¡°Get lost.¡±


    The fierceness in his voice startled her. ¡°No need to be a jerk just because you¡¯re not in the mood,¡± she said.


    The woman beside her grumbled, ¡°Acting like that in here. So pretentious.¡±


    The expression on Ethan¡¯s face made it crystal clear¡ªhe wanted to be left alone.


    When he stepped out into the cool night air, the breeze helped clear his head a little.


    A few minutester, a man on apact electric bike slowed near the curb, spotting the sleek car beside Ethan. ¡°Wait a minute, this is your car? If I¡¯d known it was a luxury car, I wouldn¡¯t have epted the job.¡± Most designated drivers were willing to drive regr cars, but luxury cars were a different story; they were afraid of damaging them.


    ¡°Sorry, sir. You¡¯d better find someone else to do this.¡±


    The man didn¡¯t even wait for Ethan¡¯s reply before turning around and speeding off on his bike.


    Staring after him, Ethan let out a long sigh and then pulled out his phone to call Brenna.


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    ¡°Come get me,¡± he said softly into the receiver, his voice raspy. His eyes narrowed as he looked up at the night sky, the faint blush on his cheeks catching the attention of passersby, especially young women.


    Back at home, Brenna had been enjoying a peaceful day off. The moment she heard Ethan¡¯s voice on the line, she felt like he was deliberately seducing her.


    ¡°What happened to you?¡± Brenna asked, her brows knitting as she registered the husky softness in his tone; it wasn¡¯t how Ethan usually spoke.


    ¡°I drank a bit too much and can¡¯t drive. The designated driver saw my car and ran off,¡± Ethan poked at his phone screen, taking a while to send his location to Brenna. ¡°Hurry up, or your boyfriend might get taken away by someone else.¡±


    Brenna found Ethan¡¯s voice inexplicably pleasant today, and he seemed unusually endearing. ¡°Wait for me,¡± she said.


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll wait.¡±


    An hourter, Brenna arrived. Her driver took her car away, and she soon found Ethan¡¯s luxury car.


    Ethan was still standing by the car, the wind blowing against his flushed cheeks. It was clear he had had too much to drink.


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 Chapter 821

    ?Chapter 821:


    ¡°You¡¯re here?¡± Ethan¡¯s eyes were dreamy as he wobbled over, wrapping his arms around Brenna and nting a kiss on the top of her head, wearing a gentle smile. ¡°You smell amazing. Did you just shower?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re really drunk,¡± Brenna said, realizing Ethan was leaning his full weight on her. Fortunately, she was strong enough to handle it; otherwise, she might have been knocked over.


    ¡°Be good. Listen, get in the car, and I¡¯ll take you home.¡± Brenna ced his arm over her shoulder, adjusted her stance, opened the car door, and, with some effort, got Ethan inside.


    After securing his seatbelt, Brenna found herself sweating from the exertion. She settled into the driver¡¯s seat, ready to start the car, only to find Ethan still awake, gazing at her with a tender smile.


    ¡°You¡¯re so beautiful. I want to kiss you,¡± he said.


    Brenna chuckled softly, ignoring his words as she started the car.


    She had never been to Ethan¡¯s home but knew his address. Ethan had bought a house in the same neighborhood as the Harper family to be close to her.


    The butler, seeing Ethan¡¯s car return, opened the gate.


    ¡°We¡¯re here.¡± Brenna stopped the car and unbuckled her seatbelt, only to find that Ethan had fallen asleep.


    She had expected him to take advantage of his drunken state to steal a few kisses, but that was not what had happened. He didn¡¯t cry, ramble, or cause any trouble; he just fell asleep.


    ¡°Miss Harper, I truly appreciate you taking the trouble to bring Mr. Mitchell back,¡± the butler said politely, recognizing Brenna through the windshield. He opened the passenger door and called out to Ethan, but Ethan remained unresponsive, deeply asleep.


    Ethan was tall. Brenna nced over at him, watching him sleep soundly inside the car like a child. She stared at him for a few moments before shifting her attention to the butler. The man looked to be in his fifties, and while he didn¡¯t seem particrly aged, she couldn¡¯t tell if he had the strength needed to carry Ethan.


    ¡°Would you be able to carry him inside the house?¡± she asked.


    The butler, a former soldier with a solid build from years of rigorous training, gave an immediate nod. ¡°No problem at all.¡±


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    Brenna couldn¡¯t take her eyes off Ethan¡¯s calm and strikingly handsome sleeping face. A secondter, the butler hoisted Ethan onto his shoulder with surprising ease and began walking toward the house. Brenna was a bit surprised; she had assumed the butler might need her help carrying Ethan.


    Brenna followed behind as they climbed up to the second floor. The butler gently ced Ethan on the bed and began removing his coat, shirt, shoes, and pants, leaving him in only his underwear.


    A deep blush spread across Brenna¡¯s face, and she quickly turned away, too shy to keep looking.


    Once the nket had been pulled over Ethan and everything was in order, Brenna finally approached him.


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 Chapter 822

    ?Chapter 822:


    Noticing Brenna¡¯s reddened face, the butler let out a chuckle, amused by her innocent reaction.


    He said, ¡°Miss Harper, could you help wipe Mr. Mitchell down? He prefers to feel clean when he sleeps.¡±


    ¡°Does he get drunk like this often?¡± Brenna asked, finding the butler¡¯s routine almost too practiced, as though he had done it many times before.


    The butler offered a knowing smile. ¡°Yes, I¡¯ve worked for Mr. Mitchell for several years. Back when he was building his business from the ground up, he often had to attend social events where drinking was unavoidable. Getting drunk was amon urrence. Over time, his stomach has suffered a lot. Miss Harper, if you can, try talking him into taking better care of himself.¡±


    A small smile formed on Brenna¡¯s lips. ¡°I¡¯ll try.¡±


    She then headed into the bathroom, soaked a towel in warm water, and returned to gently clean Ethan¡¯s face and hands.


    Ethan remained still.


    The butler had already stepped out. Brenna remained seated by the bed, taking in the peaceful sight of Ethan¡¯s sleeping face. She had never examined him this closely before, and only now did she realize just how strikingly attractive he really was. Every detail of his face looked wless¡ªfrom the sculpted features to his long, curledshes. Even his skin appeared wless, almost unreal. Unable to resist, she gently pinched his cheek, marveling at the texture. ¡°Even asleep, you look handsome.¡±


    Brenna lingered by the bed for more than an hour, simply watching Ethan sleep, before finally deciding to leave.


    By morning, Ethan woke up with a dull headache. It wasn¡¯t unfamiliar; he often woke like this after drinking. He sat on the edge of the bed for a moment, then called out, ¡°Galen?¡±


    Just then, the bedroom door opened, and Brenna stepped inside, holding a thermos in one hand.


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    Her eyes instantlynded on Ethan¡¯s bare chest, his well-toned muscles on full disy, and she found herself feeling slightly shy.


    When Ethan caught sight of Brenna¡¯s gentle smile, he offered a soft one in return, only to suddenly realize he was sitting on the bed in nothing but his underwear, which felt more than a little inappropriate. He quickly got back under the covers.


    But when he nced up again and noticed Brenna¡¯s rosy cheeks, he found her embarrassment both endearing and amusing. Part of him wished he had waited a while before covering his body.


    ¡°Does your head hurt?¡± asked Brenna, standing by the bed with the thermos in hand, her eyes lingering on Ethan¡¯s bare shoulders. She couldn¡¯t help but admire how he wasn¡¯t just handsome; his build was also impressive. The urge to reach out and touch him tugged at her, and even after staring for quite some time, she still didn¡¯t feel satisfied. Catching the dazed expression on her face, Ethan grinned with satisfaction. It felt good knowing all his time at the gym hadn¡¯t gone to waste.


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 Chapter 823

    ?Chapter 823:


    ¡°You like what you see?¡± Ethan asked, pulling the nket down to reveal more of his body. ¡°Check out my waist and my legs.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re such a flirt¡­¡± Brenna snapped out of her daze, realizing she had been gawking, and quickly rushed out of the room with the thermos.


    Ethan let out a low chuckle and made his way to the bathroom. Twenty minutester, he stepped out of his room, dressed sharply in a ck suit.


    ¡°Did you make soup for me?¡± Ethan asked.


    Brenna had been focused on her phone, and when she looked up and saw Ethan fully dressed, she found herself missing the sight of him shirtless. He really did look incredible without clothes.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± Brenna replied as she twisted open the thermos and began pouring soup into a bowl for him, then another for herself. From anotherpartment, she brought out sandwiches and boiled eggs. ¡°Drink some soup first. It should help with the headache.¡±


    Ethan nodded. ¡°Thanks for looking after mest night. It must¡¯ve been a lot of trouble for you.¡±


    He naturally assumed it had been Brenna who had helped undress him. The idea of her seeing his body left him feeling oddly pleased. Still, he couldn¡¯t understand how he¡¯d slept so deeply. Had he kissed her in a drunken haze? He wished he had kissed her.


    He started to wish he had installed cameras in his room just so he could rey the moment and watch her undress him. He would happily go through it all again if it meant Brenna would be the one removing his clothes.


    ¡°It really wasn¡¯t a big deal,¡± Brenna answered lightly, brushing it off.


    Just as they were finishing up breakfast, Ethan¡¯s phone suddenly buzzed with a call. He nced at the screen and saw Jayceon¡¯s name. Without a second thought, he declined the call.


    Momentster, he received a message from Jayceon.


    ¡°I¡¯ve got a document that needs reviewing. Mind helping me with it?¡±


    Ethan responded, ¡°Your leg¡¯s injured, not your hands or your head!¡±


    Jayceon replied, ¡°True, but my brain¡¯s not working right now.¡±


    Though the dining table was spacious enough to amodate a dozen guests, Ethan deliberately chose the seat closest to Brenna. With careful movements, he held the soup bowl and stirred the broth slowly, savoring the moment.


    Having Brenna in his home felt better than dining at her ce. He found himself wishing this would be a regr thing.


    Now, if only he coulde up with a believable excuse to invite her over more often.


    Nothing came to mind just yet.


    The sudden buzz of his phone broke his thoughts. A nce at the screen revealed yet another message from Jayceon, this one more impatient than thest.


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 Chapter 824

    ?Chapter 824:


    ¡°It¡¯s already nine. Stop stalling ande here quickly.¡± Ethan didn¡¯t even bother replying.


    Noticing that Ethan had received many messages, Brenna tilted her head and asked, ¡°Is it something urgent?¡± Considering his role as a CEO, she figured he was usually busy with work.


    ¡°No. Let¡¯s just enjoy breakfast,¡± said Ethan. Moments like this with Brenna were rare, and he had no intention of letting anything interrupt them.


    Without another word, he reached for an egg and began peeling it, even as his phone buzzed with another message. He didn¡¯t bother checking it.


    His fingers moved slowly, peeling the shell bit by bit. It wasn¡¯t just about the egg; it was his quiet way of showing care. Once done, he handed it to Brenna. She epted it with a gentle smile and said, ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Once the dishes were cleared and the morning feltplete, Ethan drove Brenna to the Mitchell Group building before heading to the hospital.


    Stacks of paperwork were neatly piled on the coffee table in Jayceon¡¯s private hospital suite, waiting for Ethan¡¯s review.


    To Ethan¡¯s surprise, Tina was also there, methodically slicing fruit as if she belonged. tes of glistening apple slices and rinsed blueberries were already arranged in front of Jayceon.


    Her outfit today was modest, and her behavior was noticeably subdued. When Ethan stepped into the room, she offered only a small, reserved smile, nowhere.


    The shift in Tina¡¯s attitude was starkpared to the flirty demeanor she had shown the day before. But this change didn¡¯t soften Ethan. He met her presence with cold indifference, not even bothering to acknowledge her.


    Jayceon, already displeased, said to Ethan, ¡°Took you long enough. What were you doing earlier?¡±


    ¡°I was spending time with my girlfriend,¡± Ethan replied.


    The knife stilled in Tina¡¯s hand the moment those words left Ethan¡¯s mouth. Her mind raced. Surely, Brenna hade acrossst night¡¯s news; those trending headlines and photos of her with Ethan had flooded every feed. It was impossible for Brenna not to have seen it. Yet, for some reason, Brenna had still spent the morning with Ethan.


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    Tina struggled to make sense of it. Had Ethan and Brenna gotten into a fight over the matter? Maybe Ethan had spent the entire morningforting Brenna, which exined why he waste. Reassured by the thought, Tina gently slid the te of fruit toward Ethan, her voice soft. ¡°You should eat some fruit, Ethan.¡±


    But Ethan didn¡¯t so much as lift his eyes. His focus remained locked on the documents in front of him, his pen underlining sections with practiced precision.


    Tina¡¯s gaze lingered on him, admiration flickering in her expression. Ethan, however, offered her nothing in return. Not a word. Not a nce. As far as he was concerned, she wasn¡¯t even there.


    asionally, Ethan posed a question to Jayceon while continuing to sift through the documents, making quick work of the stack before setting each file aside.


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 Chapter 825

    ?Chapter 825:


    Only when his phone began to ring did he pause and reach into his pocket. Ernst¡¯s name lit up the screen. ¡°Did you see the post I sent you?¡± Ernst asked.


    Ethan¡¯s brows drew together ever so slightly. ¡°I saw it. The PR team is already dealing with it.¡±


    That answer didn¡¯t sit well with Ernst, who let out a dissatisfied grunt. ¡°That¡¯s it? Shouldn¡¯t you at least be clearing things up with Brenna?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s not the type to jump to conclusions. Brenna trusts me. I don¡¯t need to rify things to her,¡± Ethan replied.


    Across the room, Tina returned to Jayceon¡¯s bedside, visibly irritated by Ethan¡¯s cold attitude toward her. ¡°Jayceon¡­¡±


    Jayceon had caught the news earlier and had been watching Ethan closely ever since he walked into the room. Ethan looked just like he always did¡ªunbothered and indifferent. He didn¡¯t even nce at Tina, making it clear he wasn¡¯t interested in her at all.


    He looked like he wasn¡¯t bothered by the situation at all. If anything, he seemed mildly irritated by Tina¡¯s presence.


    Ethan wasn¡¯t one to wear emotions on his sleeve, but the subtle tension in his jaw and the cold distance in his eyes made it obvious that Tina got under his skin. Yet, he said nothing, holding his tongue out of courtesy for Jayceon.


    ¡°You should go,¡± Jayceon said tly to Tina. Technically, they were siblings, but thatbel meant little. With different mothers and no real emotional tether, Jayceon believed letting Tina linger here had already been more than generous.


    ¡°I¡¯m not going anywhere. Ask Ethan what he thinks of me,¡± Tina said.


    Jayceon scoffed. ¡°Spare us both. I don¡¯t need to ask¡ªhis face says it all. Quit embarrassing yourself. Get out.¡±


    With a loud huff and an exaggerated stomp, Tina spun on her heel and exited the room.


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    Ethan ended his call and nced toward Jayceon, curiosity flickering in his eyes. ¡°You and Tina don¡¯t really have a good rtionship, so why has she been showing up here so muchtely?¡±


    Jayceon, though still recovering from his injury, retained all his sharpness. He knew exactly what Ethan was talking about. ¡°You know why she¡¯s here. Don¡¯t y dumb. I¡¯ll make sure she doesn¡¯t bother you again.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s tone carried a warning. ¡°Make sure she stays away. I won¡¯t be so civil next time.¡± The only reason he hadn¡¯t done anything to Tinast night was out of the respect he still held for Jayceon.


    Meanwhile, just outside the hospital¡¯s main entrance, Tina was talking on her phone. ¡°You¡¯re certain Ethan¡¯s flying to Plomond in two days?¡± she asked.


    The answer pleased her. A slow grin spread across her face. ¡°Perfect. Thank you. I will transfer the money to you right away.¡±


    In the afternoon, Brenna sat in a focused exchange with Thiago, their discussion circling the mountingplications surrounding the production of intelligent mechanical prosthetics.


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 Chapter 826

    ?Chapter 826:


    ¡°The demand¡¯s too high,¡± Thiago said, frustration creeping into his voice. ¡°One facility can¡¯t manage everything on its own. The Mitchell Group owns a medical manufacturing branch that could take over some of the load. Why don¡¯t you talk to Mr. Mitchell about this?¡± Seated across from Brenna with his arms folded, Thiago wasn¡¯t just making a suggestion; he was pushing for a real chance. ¡°If the request came from you, he would prefer to work with us. Our prosthetics areplex, and small factories just aren¡¯t equipped for them.¡±


    Brenna stayed quiet, contemting whether Thiago¡¯s proposal was feasible.


    Noticing the pause, Thiago spoke again, gently but firmly. ¡°One word from you, and Mr. Mitchell can pass the message to his team. I¡¯ll manage everything else¡ªtalks, pricing, logistics. The issue is that their current production schedule is packed. They¡¯re willing to take us, but not sooner than six months out.¡±


    Eventually, Brenna gave a single nod, her voice calm. ¡°Alright, I will talk to him.¡±


    Minutes after Thiago stepped out, Ethan arrived.


    Greta, who sat in the cubicle closest to Brenna¡¯s office, naturally noticed Ethan¡¯s arrival. It had been days since he¡¯d visited this side of the office. Brenna hadn¡¯t needed anything from him, and there hadn¡¯t been a reason for either of them to cross pathstely. That also meant Greta hadn¡¯t seen Ethan in nearly a week. She left her desk and headed to the break room.


    Inside, Lorna was finishing up rinsing the cup Thiago had just used.


    ¡°Greta.¡± Without bothering to smile, Lorna acknowledged Greta with a cool greeting. In recent weeks, most of the staff hade to understand Greta¡¯s personality, and not many people liked her. As far as Lorna was concerned, Greta was just her colleague.


    Every time Ethan dropped by, Greta had noticed that Lorna was the one who brought in the coffee¡ªthe exact blend Brenna liked.


    Hoping to carve out a moment with Ethan for herself, Greta had been practicing at home nonstop, determined to master the art of coffee making to win him over.


    She skillfully measured out the right amount of coffee beans, ced them in the machine, brewed the coffee, and added milk and sugar.


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    When Lorna caught sight of this, her expression tightened. Everyone in the office knew that Brenna¡¯s coffee beans were practically sacred. No one touched them without permission.


    Greta should know this. Yet here she was, using Brenna¡¯s personal stash. Whether it was for herself or for someone else in the CEO¡¯s office, Lorna didn¡¯t know.


    But soon, she realized that Greta was probably doing this for Ethan. She wanted him to drink the coffee she made.


    Lorna asked, ¡°You¡¯ve gotten pretty good with the coffee machine, huh? nning to drink that yourself?¡±


    Greta didn¡¯t flinch. ¡°Can¡¯t I treat myself once in a while?¡±


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 Chapter 827

    ?Chapter 827:


    While it was widely understood that Brenna¡¯s beans were off-limits, she had once casually said anyone could help themselves. That offhand remark gave Greta just enough wiggle room to get away with this.


    So, Lorna couldn¡¯t call her out directly.


    She simply nodded. ¡°Of course. Just wondering.¡±


    Without another word, Greta picked up two cups of coffee and headed out. Lorna trailed behind at a distance, watching her knock on Brenna¡¯s door and walk in.


    Back at her desk, Lorna sank into her chair. Turning to the coworker beside her, she muttered, ¡°Any idea who¡¯s in Brenna¡¯s office? When the guest arrived, I was in the break room.¡±


    A faint smirk tugged at the corners of the male colleague¡¯s mouth. Everyone in the design department had picked up on Greta¡¯s intentions, even if no one had ever said it aloud. With a touch of dry sarcasm, he replied, ¡°Mr. Mitchell is in there.¡±


    Lorna rolled her eyes. Greta had pulled stunts like this several times before, and Brenna hadn¡¯t said anything about it.


    Irritation bubbling over, Lorna muttered, ¡°Why does she always pull this crap? She walks in with coffee like that¡¯s her job, and if Mr. Harper asks about itter, I¡¯ll be the one getting med.¡±


    The male colleague just shrugged before getting back to his work.


    Left stewing in frustration, Lorna sat at her desk, staring daggers at Brenna¡¯s closed office door. Three whole minutes ticked by, and still no sign of Gretaing out.


    After a moment, she stood and made her way back to the break room, returning with two sses of freshly squeezed orange juice in hand. Inside Brenna¡¯s office, Greta¡¯s presence didn¡¯t bother Brenna. Even when it was just Ethan and her here, sweet talk wasn¡¯t exactly their style.


    Standing close to Ethan with a polished smile, Greta leaned in slightly. ¡°I¡¯m not sure if the vor¡¯s to your liking¡­ or Brenna¡¯s. You should try it and see what you think.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s gaze dropped to the cup. The heart-shaped design floating on the surface spoke volumes; Greta must have spent considerable time perfecting this. He didn¡¯t touch it.


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    But to Ethan, the gesture felt overly personal and inappropriate for a professional setting. He found Greta¡¯s eagerness excessive. She was a design department engineer; why wasn¡¯t she focusing on her work?


    Across the desk, Brenna hadn¡¯t touched the coffee, either. She said to Ethan, ¡°I was just about to go find you. There¡¯s something I need to say to you.¡±


    Ethan responded in a warm tone, ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re hitting capacity with our current prosthetic orders,¡± Brenna said. ¡°I know yourpany has a factory that could handle it, but its schedule is packed. Is there any way you could move us up the queue?¡± She smiled lightly, her eyes steady on his.


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 Chapter 828

    ?Chapter 828:


    A softugh escaped Ethan. ¡°When my girlfriend gives me instructions, I don¡¯t exactly have the option to refuse. I¡¯ll tell my team to move your order to the top of the list.¡±


    Gratitude lit up Brenna¡¯s face. ¡°I appreciate it.¡±


    Three quick knocks broke the moment as Lorna stepped in, bncing a tray with two sses of orange juice. Her eyes brushed past Greta without so much as a nce.


    Strolling up to the table, Lorna acted as though she¡¯d just noticed the coffee cups. ¡°Oh? Looks like someone already beat me to it and brought drinks for Ms. Harper and Mr. Mitchell.¡±


    Without waiting for a response, she set a ss of orange juice in front of Ethan and gently nudged the untouched coffee out of the way.


    The heart-shaped foam floating on top of the coffee didn¡¯t escape her attention. It only confirmed what she had already started to suspect about Greta.


    A second ss of juice appeared in front of Brenna momentster, ced with the same effortless cheer. Lorna offered a bright smile, then turned and walked off as if nothing had happened.


    Ethan reached for the orange juice, took a few casual sips, and said, ¡°This isn¡¯t bad.¡±


    Then, he stood up. ¡°Got something to deal with. I¡¯ll go now.¡±


    Brenna gave a small nod, watching him disappear through the door. Only when the room settled again did she nce over at Greta and ask inly, ¡°Is there something you need?¡±


    Greta quickly came up with an excuse, saying, ¡°I just want to check if I should follow up on the prosthetic design I submitted.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need for that,¡± said Brenna coolly. ¡°Moreno is already handling that. If that¡¯s all, you can get back to work.¡±


    Brenna might have spoken calmly, but she wasn¡¯t blind. Greta¡¯s thoughts were written all over her expression.


    L?t??¦Ó §éh?¦Ñ¦Ó?r? ¦Én g¨»l??¦Ïv?l?.§ão??


    After being dismissed, Greta didn¡¯t hesitate. She went straight to Lorna and confronted her. ¡°You saw I brought coffee. So why bring orange juice, too? What game are you ying?¡±


    The coffee she had made had sat untouched in front of Ethan for five whole minutes. Not a sip taken. But the second Lorna reced it with juice, he drank it like he¡¯d been waiting for it.


    She¡¯d spent countless hours at home trying to perfect her skills at brewing coffee.


    Without missing a beat, Lorna replied, ¡°It¡¯s part of my job to make sure every guest in the CEO¡¯s office is taken care of. If I know someone¡¯s here and don¡¯t bring¡­¡±


    ¡°Anything, that¡¯s me not doing my job. I¡¯m not about to lose my job over something like this. So next time, please let me handle it.¡±


    .


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 Chapter 829

    ?Chapter 829:


    Her voice stayed even¡ªfirm but polite. Not a hint of hostility, but no softness, either. Nearby employees had begun stealing nces their way, picking up on the tension in the air.


    Feeling the heat of their attention, Greta quietly returned to her seat.


    Frustration gnawed at her. She couldn¡¯t focus on anything. Her mind ran in circles; she was desperate to figure out how she¡¯d get close to Ethan next time he was here.


    After Ethan¡¯s departure, Lorna slipped back into Brenna¡¯s office to clear away the coffee and orange juice. She was relieved that Brenna hadn¡¯tmented on the situation, but she made a mental note that she wouldn¡¯t let Greta pull a stunt like that again.


    In the break room, Lorna was about to pour the coffee out of the cup. Just then, Tommy walked in, refilling his water bottle, and caught sight of the heart-shaped foam.


    He was disgusted by it. He believed Greta was shameless for doing something like that. He sighed in defeat. He could keep Greta in line when it came to reports and project deadlines, but when it came to these kinds of things, he had already tried to stop her and failed.


    ¡°Lorna, don¡¯t forget¡ªrefreshments are your job. Don¡¯t let anyone else jump in like that again,¡± said Tommy.


    Lorna lowered her gaze, sounding genuinely remorseful. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I was clearing Thiago¡¯s cup and didn¡¯t know Mr. Mitchell had arrived. I wouldn¡¯t have let Greta serve him coffee if I¡¯d seen him.¡±


    Tommy didn¡¯t ease up. ¡°That¡¯s not good enough. Did Ms. Harper say anything to you about it?¡±


    Lorna gave a slight shake of her head. ¡°No.¡±


    Tommy¡¯s face tightened further. ¡°Brenna isn¡¯t the type to scold her employees over every little thing, but that doesn¡¯t mean she doesn¡¯t notice. If this kind of thing keeps happening, she¡¯s going to start questioning your abilities. Don¡¯t let Greta¡¯s behavior affect your job and jeopardize your future here. If you can¡¯t handle something as simple as this, do you think you¡¯re still suited for this job?¡±


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    ¡°Screw up badly enough, it¡¯s not just on you. I¡¯ll be catching heat, too.¡±


    ¡°I understand,¡± said Lorna, her voice steady. ¡°It won¡¯t happen again.¡±


    With a short nod, Tommy said, ¡°I¡¯ll keep an eye out for you, but you¡¯ve got to be sharper. Don¡¯t give Greta any more chances to do something like this again.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t,¡± Lorna replied, more resolute now. ¡°You can count on that.¡±


    After filling his water bottle, Tommy turned and left the room without another word.


    Alone in the break room, Lorna simmered in silence, her frustration refusing to fade.


    When Brenna got home, Julia handed her a cream-colored envelope, her expression hesitant. ¡°Your parents said they won¡¯t be attending. But if you¡¯d like to go, here¡¯s the invitation.¡±


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 Chapter 830

    Chapter 830:


    Brenna flipped it open. The golden lettering announced Kenny and Minna¡¯s engagement celebration. A luxury restaurant had been reserved for it, and it was set for next Tuesday.


    ¡°They¡¯re getting engaged so soon?¡± Brenna murmured. She passed her handbag to Julia, who took it upstairs and returned with her slippers.


    Dalton hade home ahead of schedule today. After weeks of intense preparation for his concert, he finally had time to rest, and he¡¯d been asleep since morning.


    As Brenna pulled out her chair, Dalton walked over and settled across from her. ¡°So, are you nning to attend?¡±


    Before Brenna could respond, Shepard, Giselle, and Ernst entered the room one after another, taking their seats at the table.


    ¡°I haven¡¯t decided yet,¡± Brenna said. ¡°I want to talk to Ethan about it first. But honestly, I¡¯ll probably end up going.¡±


    Her eyes drifted toward the others, who sat quietly with somber faces. Something was clearly bothering them.


    ¡°What¡¯s with all the long faces?¡± she asked, eyebrows lifting. ¡°Did something happen?¡±


    Shepard let out a sharp breath, irritation clear on his face. ¡°Rosie pulled one of her usual stunts. She cornered everyone and forced us to sit down for a meal with her.¡±


    ¡°This family never gets a break,¡± Giselle sighed, clearly fed up. ¡°Rosie has dug up dirt on every one of your uncles and cousins. Carsen has a mistress; she found out about it and threatened to expose him unless he agreed to meet her. Gifford¡¯s got twopanies dodging taxes, and she¡¯s using that to ckmail him, too. It¡¯s beyond frustrating. The rest of them, after seeing what she did to Carsen and Gifford, had no choice but to give in and meet her.¡±


    Shepard and Ernst both wore looks of frustration.


    Shepard scowled. ¡°One young woman pushing our entire family around like that¡ªit¡¯s disgraceful.¡±


    Dalton sighed heavily. ¡°Dealing with this kind of mess isn¡¯t my strength. It¡¯s giving me a headache just thinking about it. Honestly, the family business is better off in your hands. Ernst, thanks for putting in the effort.¡±


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    He reached over and gave Ernst a pat on the shoulder.


    Ernst looked resigned. He said to Shepard, ¡°Dad, don¡¯t stress. I¡¯ll take care of it. If it gets really bad, we¡¯ll just treat her like a business associate¡ªsmile, y along, and make sure our reputation stays intact.¡±


    Brenna looked at Ernst, sensing that hecked his usual spirit today.


    ¡°Ernst, why are you folding so quickly?¡± she asked.


    Irritation red in Ernst¡¯s expression. ¡°What options do I have? We can¡¯t kill her, and we can¡¯t stop her from pulling these stunts. So the only path left is to keep her calm.¡±


    Brenna gave a small nod. That was the reality of the situation, but it still struck her as deeply unsatisfying.


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    .<hr>


    Message from Noah: Hi dear readers, I hope you enjoyed the chapters! From now on, new chapters will be released every Tuesday and Friday. Also, four new novels will beunched each week. God loves you and Noah wishes you all the best. (? ?? ? ¨C ? ) ?


    .

 Chapter 831

    ?Chapter 831:


    She said, ¡°Fine. You can handle it however you like. I¡¯ve got my own business to run and no time to deal with this nonsense.¡±


    Ernst cast her a sideways nce. ¡°I was hoping you had some clever n to get me out of this mess.¡±


    A subtle smile touched Brenna¡¯s lips. ¡°If it were up to me, I¡¯d just kill her.¡±


    In her heart, Brenna believed the reason the Harper family couldn¡¯t deal with Rosie was that she had grown up with them. That history made it hard for them to treat her like they would treat any other threat.


    And that was exactly why Brenna chose to stay out of it.


    The next evening, every shareholder in the Harper family gathered in a grand private room at the renowned Peace Hotel in Shirie. The space was dominated by a massive round table,rge enough to seat thirty guests. As a shareholder herself, Brenna was present as well.


    Among the crowd, only Rosie and Maxley wore smiles. Both of them stood proudly at the doorway, grinning without a hint of shame. Rosie made her rounds, introducing Maxley to each member of the Harper family, while Maxley took the time to shake hands with everyone he met.


    Once the room was full, Rosie finally raised her voice. ¡°Look at this. This is what family should look like. Maxley and I need your support in Plieca. A lot of you have business over there already. This is the perfect partnership. Why let things get so tense between us? At the end of the day, we¡¯re all family. Let¡¯s enjoy a good meal, talk business, and make some real money.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re family, so don¡¯t hold back. Get whatever you want¡ªit¡¯s all on me tonight,¡± Maxley said, handing out three menus with a charming grin.


    Rosie¡¯s gaze drifted to Brenna. Despite Brenna¡¯s frosty demeanor and clearck of interest in participating, Rosie¡¯s spirits remained high. Tonight was going to be unforgettable for Brenna. No matter how coldly Brenna treated her or how fiercely she resisted, she was still here sharing a meal with her now. Rosie believed this was a win for her.


    ¡°Brenna, didn¡¯t I ask you to bring Ethan along?¡± Rosie asked sweetly. ¡°Why didn¡¯t hee?¡±


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    Brenna¡¯s voice turned cold. ¡°He¡¯s got things to do. And this is a Harper family matter, isn¡¯t it? There¡¯s no reason for him to get involved.¡± She was certain Rosie was far too clever to have missed the fact that Ethan had left for Plomond that day and wouldn¡¯t be returning tonight.


    ¡°Even if his parents aren¡¯t thrilled about you, it¡¯s obvious Ethan cares about you deeply,¡± said Rosie. ¡°I really believe the two of you are meant to be in the long run. He¡¯s going to be part of this family sooner orter. There¡¯s no harm in letting him get involved in our family matters.¡±


    ¡°Oh? In that case, Maxley is part of our family too, right?¡± Brenna said without hesitation. ¡°Earlier, when Maxley was greeting our uncles and cousins, he didn¡¯t even bother using polite terms.¡±


    The Harper family, who had been quietly simmering with frustration, finally found a bit of relief in Brenna¡¯s words. Several eyes turned toward Rosie.


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 Chapter 832

    ?Chapter 832:


    Rosie gave an awkward smile, clearly flustered. ¡°Oh, that¡¯s just a cultural thing. Don¡¯t overthink it.¡±


    Catching on to the conversation, Maxley ditched any trace of royal pride. He quickly stood up and said, ¡°It¡¯s a pleasure to meet everyone. From this moment on, we¡¯re all family. Let¡¯s work together, support one another, and grow our fortunes as one.¡±


    Not a single person responded. The Harper family was utterly disgusted by Rosie¡¯s and Maxley¡¯s shamelessness.


    Rosie rose to her feet. ¡°He¡¯s a prince, you know. Isn¡¯t it a little disrespectful to treat him like this? Don¡¯t forget the reason we¡¯re all gathered here tonight.¡±


    Her reminder only fueled the resentment everyone had. Even though they were clearly outraged, the Harper family members forced themselves to respond to Maxley. Gradually, the mood in the room eased, and the tension began to lift slightly.


    Brenna said to Rosie sarcastically, ¡°Your tactics are really something.¡±


    Rosie responded, her voice tinged with irritation, ¡°Thank you for thepliment.¡±


    Old grudges simmered just beneath the surface, and Rosie¡¯s temper bubbled up. But tonight, if Tina pulled off her n, Brenna would be out of the picture for good. That thought alone was enough to make Rosie feel triumphant.


    ¡°Let¡¯s not keep those long faces, alright? We¡¯re family, not enemies. I gathered everyone here today for a reason,¡± Rosie said, shing a smile as she reached behind her for a stack of documents resting on the wide coffee table.


    Grinning, she handed out the documents. ¡°I¡¯m bringing these opportunities to you personally. They¡¯re solid, high-return projects. Denis has been chasing me about them forever, but I held off, wanting to offer them to family first.¡±


    The Harper family members impatiently snatched the documents and began flipping through the contents.


    Throughout the years, the Harper family had built up substantial wealth through the dividends Luther provided, and several members had ventured into starting their own small businesses. From their perspective, these projects felt promising, and it seemed to them that Rosie still held onto a bit of a conscience after all.


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    However, in the eyes of Shepard and Ernst, these projects didn¡¯t evene close to meeting the mark.


    After giving the documents a quick nce, their interest faded entirely, and they pushed the papers aside.


    In their minds, these insignificant ventures were better suited for the other members of the Harper family.


    To Shepard and Ernst, Rosie¡¯s gesture felt hollow. If she truly wanted the Harper family to back Maxley, was this really the best she could offer?


    Did she really believe this was enough to win over the entire Harper family?


    Brenna had once brought projects to the Harper Group during meal discussions that were over ten times more substantial than the ones being considered now.


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 Chapter 833

    ?Chapter 833:


    Around the dining table, some people looked satisfied, while others remained unmoved.


    As Rosie nced across the room, she quickly picked up on Ernst¡¯s clear disinterest in the projects.


    Without saying a word, she exchanged a subtle nce with Maxley, then picked up a final document that had been set aside on the coffee table. She handed it directly to Ernst. ¡°Here, Ernst. Take a look at this,¡± she said.


    Both Shepard and Ernst leaned closer together to read the contents. The document outlined the general agency details of apany from Plieca that was preparing to do business in Vand.


    Although the profits were impressive, Ernst and Shepard exchanged a silent look before handing the document back to Rosie. They both doubted Rosie¡¯s intentions, believing that her sudden generosity shed with the attitude she had shown them before. It was unlikely she was now acting out of goodwill to help the Harper family make money.


    With a voice thatcked warmth, Shepard responded, ¡°You don¡¯t have to give us the project. Even without it, we won¡¯t stand idly by when you need support in Plieca in the future. You can give these projects to the others.¡±


    Without another word, Ernst and Shepard got to their feet to leave, and both Brenna and Dalton followed behind them.


    Rosie quickly stepped in, trying to stop them. ¡°Why are you all leaving already? I¡¯m being sincere here. Can¡¯t you at least stay for the meal?¡± Rosie did everything she could to keep them from going, urging them to eat before leaving.


    Eventually, Shepard agreed to stay.


    In Plomond¡­


    I??¨¨$? ¡é??t?€§ñ? 1n ??l¦Ðo¦Í¦Ål?.c??


    Ethan was having dinner with the top executives from a subsidiary of the Mitchell Group. His trip here was to personally oversee a major endeavor involving the auction of a highly valuable plot ofnd in Plomond. The plot was massive and came with an expensive price, which was why the subsidiary had invited him to handle the deal himself.


    By the end of a long afternoon filled withpetitive bidding, the project was finally won. It had taken arge financial ouy, but the expected returns were incredibly promising.


    In celebration, the team from the subsidiary had booked a private dining room in the most expensive restaurant in Plomond. The senior managers approached Ethan one after another, each raising a ss.


    Ethan ended up drinking quite a lot, and by the time the meal concluded, it was already past eleven at night. Since Neville hadn¡¯t consumed any alcohol, he was the one who drove Ethan to the Empire Hotel, which was under the Mitchell Group¡¯s ownership.


    Given how frequently Ethan traveled to Plomond for work, the hotel had designated a presidential suite just for him.


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 Chapter 834

    ?Chapter 834:


    ¡°Wee, Mr. Mitchell!¡± The receptionist at the Empire Hotel¡¯s Plomond branch greeted him with enthusiasm. When Neville arrived at the front desk shortly after Ethan, he asked, ¡°Has the suite already been cleaned?¡±


    The receptionist answered politely, ¡°Yes, sir. Our policy requires daily cleaning, even if Mr. Mitchell doesn¡¯t show up.¡±


    Neville nodded and followed Ethan into the elevator.


    Even though Ethan owned multiple properties in Plomond, he had never stayed in any of them.


    As soon as they exited the elevator, Neville used the keycard to unlock the door to Ethan¡¯s suite.


    Once the lights flickered on, he set down Ethan¡¯s suitcase and immediately walked through the suite to check that everything was in order. The room seemed just as it should be, and many of Ethan¡¯s personal items had already been ced in the presidential suite. Out of habit, Neville opened the wardrobe and found nothing suspicious. After making sure the bathroom was also clear, he turned his attention back to Ethan.


    ¡°Everything¡¯s good, Mr. Mitchell.¡±


    ¡°Alright. Go ahead and rest now,¡± Ethan said tiredly, stepping into the bedroom. He opened the wardrobe, grabbed a bathrobe, and headed straight for the bathroom.


    As soon as the warm water touched his skin, Ethan could feel the tension in his body fade.


    After Neville exited, he moved into the adjacent luxury suite, staying nearby in case Ethan needed anything.


    The moment Neville stepped into his room, the door on the opposite side of Ethan¡¯s suite creaked open. Tina appeared, wearing nothing but a bathrobe, and crept out silently. With precise movements, she used a keycard to open Ethan¡¯s door. While he remained in the shower, she tossed her bathrobe aside and climbed into his bed, propping her chin with one hand as she stared toward the bathroom door,pletely unclothed.


    When the sound of water stopped, Tina¡¯s pulse quickened with anticipation.


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    She believed that with her wearing nothing and Ethan justing out of a shower, they were bound to do something intimate soon. Within moments, Ethan stepped out.


    Ethan stepped out of the bathroom, a towel wrapped around his waist and another in his hand to dry his hair. He hadn¡¯t even looked up, too focused on drying his hair with the towel. Only when he got closer to the bed did he catch sight of a woman lying there,pletely naked.


    Ethan stopped in his tracks, his eyes suddenly sharp. ¡°How did you manage to get in here?¡±


    Tinay sprawled across the bed, confident that she had him right where she wanted. She arched her back and reached out for the towel at his waist, convinced that a little touch would be enough to spark his interest. ¡°Ethan¡­ Do you think I¡¯m beautiful?¡±


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 Chapter 835

    ?Chapter 835:


    Not the least bit shy, Tina rose and lunged at him.


    Ethan sidestepped her advances, tossed the towel he was holding aside, and grabbed a fistful of Tina¡¯s hair, hauling her toward the doorway.


    Pain shed across Tina¡¯s face as she was caught off guard by hispleteck of gentleness. Every tug on her hair sent a sharp pain through her body, making it feel as though her scalp was being torn off. Screams tore from her throat. ¡°Let go! What¡¯s wrong with you?¡± She kicked and wed, desperate to free herself, her voice growing frantic. ¡°Ah¡ªlet me go! It hurts, Ethan! Stop it!¡±


    Ethan didn¡¯t spare her a nce or a kind word. He yanked the door open and tossed her out, not caring that she was naked.


    Tinanded with a muffled thump, the hallway carpet swallowing the sound. Shey there,pletely exposed.


    Thankfully, thete hour meant no one witnessed her disgrace. Heart pounding, she scrambled to her feet and darted back to her own room. This was so humiliating!


    Ethan mmed the door without a word. Heading back to the bedroom, he spotted a bathrobe lying where it didn¡¯t belong, picked it up, and tossed it out as well.


    Then, he found a set of pajamas in the wardrobe and changed before calling Neville.


    Neville answered the call right away and hurried over. Approaching the door of Ethan¡¯s suite, he saw the bathrobe crumpled on the floor and quickly dumped it in the nearest trash bin.


    ¡°My apologies, Mr. Mitchell. I¡¯ll get to the bottom of this right away,¡± he said to Ethan after entering.


    Confusion ran through Neville. He¡¯d checked the suite himself¡ªhow had anyone else managed to get in?


    The first possibility that came to mind was that Tina had obtained a key card from the floor manager.


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    This was a major problem. Someone at the Mitchell Group¡¯s hotel had allowed the CEO¡¯s private information to fall into the wrong hands, and just thinking about it filled Neville with anger.


    Fortunately, the intruder had only been Tina. If someone with dangerous intentions had gotten in, the consequences could have been disastrous.


    How many people were involved in this?


    Neville knew the list didn¡¯t stop with the floor manager and housekeeping. Even the general manager of the Empire Hotel in Plomond was now under suspicion.


    Ethan¡¯s expression was grim as he stood at the bedroom door, staring at the bed. ¡°It¡¯s dirty now. Rece all the bedding.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mr. Mitchell.¡± Neville strode out quickly, already dialing the general manager¡¯s number.


    Within minutes, a housekeeping crew appeared and began stripping the bed, recing everything.


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 Chapter 836

    ?Chapter 836:


    Meanwhile, Tina dared not stay in the adjacent suite any longer. She knew Ethan¡¯s temperament well enough to realize she needed to disappear fast. If she lingered, Ethan¡¯s people would find her soon.


    She threw on her clothes and fled.


    By the time Neville finished briefing the general manager and started his investigation, Tina was already gone.


    Less than ten minutes had passed from the incident to the arrival of fresh linens. Surveying the silent room, Neville understood that Ethan wouldn¡¯t pursue the incident any further, especially with Tina being Jayceon¡¯s sister.


    Tina secured a room at a different hotel. After locking herself in, she finally dared to check her phone.


    Rosie¡¯s texts had already started piling up, each one dripping with curiosity and expectation.


    ¡°How did things turn out? Did you pull it off?¡±


    A full ten minutes after the first text, another one had arrived.


    ¡°Still no answer? Guess your n worked. Take a photo of you two together, I want to make Brenna sick to her stomach. Let¡¯s see if she still wants Ethan after seeing¡­¡±


    ¡°That he¡¯s slept with someone else.¡± Another twenty minutes passed, and a third message came through.


    ¡°You really pulled it off, huh? Congrats! Once you spend the night with Ethan, there¡¯s no way he won¡¯t marry you, even if it¡¯s against his will. Don¡¯t forget to thank me when you two get married.¡±


    Tina scrolled through the messages with a heavy heart. Rosie had gone out of her way to help her, but in the end, she hadn¡¯t seeded at all. She perched on the edge of the bed, her eyes drifting down to her own body. Her figure was perfect¡ªso why hadn¡¯t Ethan shown the slightest interest in her?


    Was there something wrong with him?


    Peeling off her clothes until only her underwear remained, she studied her curves in the mirror. She believed she was attractive¡ªso why hadn¡¯t she been able to seduce Ethan?


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    Her gaze lingered in the mirror, and a wild thought suddenly crossed her mind: Maybe Ethan was impotent. That had to be the reason he¡¯d thrown her out so quickly.


    Yes, that must be it.


    Frustration boiling over, she quickly fired off a reply to Rosie: ¡°I failed.¡±


    Noticing the clock creeping toward one in the morning, she waited for a response from Rosie. Silence from her friend confirmed that she had probably gone to bed. Tina tossed and turned, dread about Ethan¡¯s possible revenge keeping her awake.


    Shame gnawed at her as well. She had stripped herself naked in an attempt to seduce him, yet he hadn¡¯t so much as nced her way before throwing her out.


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 Chapter 837

    ?Chapter 837:


    What was worse¡ªhe had thrown her out while she was still naked. So humiliating.


    The more she thought about it, the more upset she became.


    The following morning, Rosie saw Tina¡¯s message and wasted no time arranging a meeting with her.


    Rosie, Tina, and Isabe gathered at a quiet, stylish caf¨¦, each one sipping a cup of coffee.


    ¡°I went out of my way to make sure everything was perfect for you, and you still managed to mess it up?¡± Rosie fixed Tina with a look of disbelief. ¡°I honestly thought you were smart. Wasn¡¯t the n simple enough?¡±


    Isabe absentmindedly stirred her coffee, itching for a chance to ridicule Tina. She found it almost unbelievable¡ªTina,ing from such a well-known family, had ended up tossed out naked.


    Tina caught the smug grin on Isabe¡¯s lips, and her temper red. ¡°Isabe, what¡¯s so funny? Why are you smiling? You¡¯ve done a lot of humiliating things yourself. You don¡¯t get tough at me.¡± No one had ever dared to openly mock her like this.


    Anger made her words sharper. ¡°Who do you think you are anyway?¡±


    Even though Isabe owed her current status to the man in her life, Denis was powerful. Lately, he held a lot of sway in Shirie. Even though she wasn¡¯t married to him, people in the upper circles still treated her with respect.


    In her mind, she was already Denis¡¯ wife, belonging to one of the city¡¯s most powerful families. Tina¡¯s insult stung her pride.


    ¡°What¡¯s so wrong with meughing at you? Didn¡¯t you bring this embarrassment on yourself?¡± Isabe said.


    Tina¡¯s hands tightened around her coffee cup; she was itching to hurl it at Isabe.


    Before things could escte, Rosie stepped in, her tone sharp. ¡°That¡¯s enough, both of you.¡±


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    Rosie couldn¡¯t help but think both women had their ws, and neither impressed her much in the brains department. Still, she had to admit Isabe had a bit more sense than Tina. At the very least, Isabe knew how to hold Denis¡¯ attention, and he had already poured a fair amount of money and time into her. On top of that, Isabe actually found ways to help Denis.


    Tina, byparison, was just a pampered socialite, far removed from the Russell family¡¯s business dealings. All she had was her yearly allowance and a pretty face.


    Initially, Tina had simply thought Ethan was a great catch and a good marriage prospect, but she had not nned on marrying him. It was Rosie who had encouraged her to pursue marriage with Ethan.


    ¡°There¡¯s always another chance,¡± Rosie said, not giving up. Brenna had stolen Ethan from her, and Rosie had no intention of letting Brenna and Ethan be happy together. If she couldn¡¯t have Ethan, then she wouldn¡¯t let Brenna have him, either.


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 Chapter 838

    ?Chapter 838:


    Tina was in a bad mood. ¡°I give up. I¡¯ve spent so much time visiting Jayceon every single day just for a glimpse of Ethan, but he won¡¯t even spare me a look. Not once. I think he¡¯s simply not interested in me.¡± Isabe kept smirking, her eyes mocking.


    Tina red at her.


    Isabe hardly bothered to hide her contempt, thinking Tina was beneath her now. ¡°Why don¡¯t you tell us exactly how you failed? Maybe I can help you out. Denis can¡¯t resist me, and I¡¯ve got plenty of tricks for dealing with men. Tell us what happened, and I might give you some pointers.¡±


    Tina, brought up as a privileged individual, had nothing but disdain for women like Isabe, who used their looks to get ahead. If Isabe weren¡¯t useful to Rosie, Tina wouldn¡¯t even sit with her.


    ¡°I don¡¯t need your advice on seducing men. How can you evenpare Denis to Ethan?¡± Tina rolled her eyes, seeing Isabe as foolish. ¡°Is there even a need to seduce Denis? He would practically sleep with any woman. But Ethan? He only gives his heart once, and when he does, he¡¯s loyal for life. Don¡¯t even think aboutparing the two.¡±


    Tina¡¯s words didn¡¯t sit well with Isabe, who shot back, ¡°What are you even talking about? Do you actually know Ethan? You have no idea what he¡¯s like in private. People can be deceiving. Perhaps his private life is messy.¡±


    ¡°You have no idea what you¡¯re talking about¡­¡± Tina let all her frustration out on Isabe.


    Rosie waited until they were done bickering before stepping in. ¡°Arguing won¡¯t get us anywhere. What matters is finding another opportunity. Better let the media catch you and Ethan in bed. Once the story¡¯s out, let¡¯s see how Ethan tries to deny it. He¡¯ll be forced to marry you.¡±


    She faced Isabe, making her point clear. ¡°Ethan is loyal in a rtionship. We grew up together. I understand his character better than anyone. Tina, believe me, he¡¯s worth all the trouble.¡±


    Inwardly, Rosie worried that Tina might give up altogether. That would force her to find someone else toe between Ethan and Brenna. She continued, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I will help you. Just keep visiting Jayceon in the hospital. Use that time to get closer to Ethan.¡±


    Frustration etched across Tina¡¯s face. ¡°Jayceon¡¯s getting discharged soon. He¡¯ll be recovering at home, and I¡¯ve never been invited there. What reason do I have to visit him? He¡¯s already caught on and told me to stop visiting him.¡±


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    Rosie gritted her teeth in silence, exasperated. She thought that Tina was so stupid.


    Tina felt torn. Part of her wanted to keep chasing after Ethan, yet she couldn¡¯t ignore the fact that he had no real interest in her.


    Letting go felt difficult, especially since Ethan was such a catch. A marriage with him would secure her future and keep her financiallyfortable. However, the possibility of Ethan marrying her seemed practically nonexistent.


    She let out a resigned sigh and told Rosie, ¡°Let¡¯s just forget about this.¡±


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 Chapter 839

    ?Chapter 839:


    Rosie¡¯s patience wore thin. ¡°Don¡¯t give up so quickly! I¡¯ll find more chances for you.¡±


    Not wanting to talk about the matter any longer, Tina reached for her bag. ¡°I¡¯ve got things to take care of. I need to go now. We¡¯ll talk some other time.¡±


    Once Tina had left, Rosie turned to Isabe with aint. ¡°She folds at the first obstacle. How is she supposed to get anywhere like that?¡±


    She looked at Isabe. ¡°You¡¯re the smart one. Tina¡¯s just a pretty face.¡±


    Isabe, who owed her current sess to Rosie, offered her a grateful smile. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll try to talk some sense into her when I can. If Tina doesn¡¯t marry into wealth, she¡¯ll always be dependent on her family. Should anything happen to her father, she¡¯ll be left to deal with her brothers, and none of them will be willing to support her financially. She understands that better than anyone. I¡¯m sure she¡¯lle back around.¡±


    Rosie nodded. ¡°When you get a chance, talk to her about it. She needs to see that we¡¯re looking out for her.¡±


    ¡°You can count on me, Rosie,¡± Isabe replied, genuinely appreciative. Without Rosie¡¯s support, Denis never would have treated her so well.


    After an autumn rain swept through Shirie, the city turned colder.


    Since his grandfather¡¯s birthday, Ethan hadn¡¯t seen Elsa or Emmett. Kenny and Minna were busy working, so Ethan hadn¡¯t seen them, either.


    With Kenny¡¯s engagement just days away, Ethan made his way home to see if there was any way he could help out. He thought, for instance, about assisting Kenny and Minna with choosing formal wear.


    Although the Mitchells were at the top in Shirie, the Mitchell Group was Ethan¡¯s own creation, not a family legacy.


    Ethan felt he should provide Kenny with the money for proper outfits to prevent their family from bing the target of ridicule once the guests arrived.


    The weather remained bleak. While the rain had stopped, the chill lingered in the air, and people zipped through the streets bundled up in thick jackets.


    Leaving work earlier than usual, Ethan headed to the military residentialpound.


    Everyone was there, including Minna, who was caught up in a conversation about the engagement details.


    As Ethan stepped inside, the room fell quiet. Nobody greeted him. Still, they were family, and that bond remained. Elsa gave Ethan a pointed look. ¡°So you do remember toe home?¡±


    Without a word, Ethan pulled a credit card from his pocket and set it on the table. His tone was steady. ¡°The engagement ceremony will be filled with influential guests. Here is enough money for Kenny and his fianc¨¦e to buy proper outfits. I don¡¯t want the Mitchell family to be a joke. After all, we¡¯re supposed to be the wealthiest family in town.¡±


    Both Emmett¡¯s and Kenny¡¯s faces darkened. Kenny, clearly stung by Ethan¡¯s gesture, grabbed the card and tossed it back at Ethan. ¡°I don¡¯t want your money. I can buy my own suit. Don¡¯t treat me like a charity case.¡±


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 Chapter 840

    ?Chapter 840:


    Ethan barely flinched, catching the card before calmly cing it right back. ¡°How much can you really afford? After all your years as a pilot and that ten-thousand-a-month allowance, how much have you actually saved? How much do Mom and Dad have left after everything? This card holds three hundred million. All your savings wouldn¡¯t even cover a quality dress. Take it, or I¡¯ll be the one embarrassed by you.¡±


    Emmett¡¯s re grew sharper. ¡°You make some money, and now you want to unt it in front of your own family? Youe back here just to humiliate us? If you¡¯re so worried about your reputation, you don¡¯t have to attend the engagement banquet. The guest list is for family and our friends, not your rich acquaintances! Keep your so-called generosity to yourself.¡±


    Having his son belittle him was infuriating, and Emmett¡¯s anger red. But this time, Elsa sided with Ethan. She tried to reason with Emmett and Kenny, saying, ¡°Ethan¡¯s got a point. We reserved the most expensive restaurant in Shirie for the engagement. Just one day there costs almost five million. Our savings have gone to Kenny¡¯s house and now this engagement. We¡¯re stretched thin.¡±


    Despite Ethan¡¯s wealth, Emmett had never once epted money from him. He¡¯d always depended on his own sry for a living.


    Even when Ethan tried to send him money during the holidays, Emmett always refused it, returning every cent.


    Elsa nudged Emmett gently. ¡°Minna¡¯s still here. Don¡¯t be so stubborn.¡±


    With a huff, Emmett stormed upstairs.


    Minna sat quietly, feeling a mix of emotions. She had her heart set on a two-million-dor dress, but Kenny had refused to spend that much. Instead, he had picked out a three-thousand-dor dress for her.


    Kenny¡¯s pride took a hit. When Minna had brought up the idea of a two-million-dor dress earlier, he had snapped at her for being unreasonable. Their parents might be high-ranking officers, but their ies weren¡¯t as high as outsiders assumed. Dropping two million on a dress for a single night felt like madness to him.


    Minna had suggested asking Ethan for some money. Kenny had tly rejected it. He swore he¡¯d never rely on someone else¡¯s money for his wedding, insisting they should stick to what they could afford.


    Elsa had nned to dip into her secret stash of savings to help. Before she could do anything, though, Ethan showed up.


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    Ethan always tried to help Emmett financially, but his father had never epted a cent. Ethan had also given Elsa money from time to time. Elsa had quietly received all that money, but Emmett had no idea of it. So, earlier, when everyone had dismissed the two-million-dor dress as too expensive, Elsa had kept quiet about her hidden funds. Her husband always reminded her that as a military family, they should keep things modest and simple.


    Elsa owned a collection of pricey jewelry and handbags, but she never dared admit their true value to Emmett. She secretly held hundreds of millions in her own bank ount, careful never to let her husband or Kenny catch wind of it.


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 Chapter 841

    ?Chapter 841:


    Once again, Kenny tried to hand Ethan¡¯s bank card back. Ethan simply set it back on the coffee table. ¡°Think of it as my wedding gift.¡±


    Minna couldn¡¯t take her eyes off the card. Her mind spun with longing and regret. She had dreamed of marrying Ethan¡ªhe was wealthy and generous, and she imagined a life of ease if she became his wife. With Ethan, she would never have to work. She would be the richest, most carefree woman in Shirie.


    Instead, fate had led her to Kenny. Kenny didn¡¯t have much money. Over the years, his savings hadn¡¯t even cracked a million. And now, when help was offered, he stubbornly turned it down. He was being so foolish.


    The way Minna gazed at Ethan didn¡¯t escape Kenny, making him feel even more upset.


    He never really wanted to marry Minna. But because of that video, the entire military district thought that he and Minna were engaged. He couldn¡¯t admit he had been pretending to be Ethan, so he had no choice but to go along with it.


    Now, every time he saw Minna, he felt frustrated. He also knew exactly what she was thinking. Truthfully, he didn¡¯t care about this engagement. As for the dress, it wasn¡¯t that he couldn¡¯t afford it; he just didn¡¯t believe that Minna was worth something that expensive.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be inviting all the big names in Shirie,¡± Ethan said as he took a seat, outlining his intentions. ¡°After that scandal with Miss Davies, the Mitchell family owes the public a clear response. Mom, make sure Kenny and Minna have something proper to wear. We can¡¯t let the wealthiest family in the world show up looking second-rate. This engagement has to be impressive.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s eyes lingered on Ethan, surprised by how serious he sounded. His words settled heavily on her, and she found herself speechless.


    She med herself for the mess¡ªshe hadn¡¯t managed to match Ethan with the woman she wanted for him, and she had sacrificed Kenny¡¯s happiness in the process. Regret gnawed at her.


    She knew full well that Kenny had no feelings for Minna, but there was nothing she could do. She¡¯d shared her worries with him, and he, understanding her situation, had agreed to marry Minna.


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    ¡°I¡¯m leaving now. If you need more, just let me know,¡± Ethan said with ease, then turned and left the house.


    Kenny slumped on the sofa, lost in gloomy silence.


    Minna stared at the card, her thoughts drifting. With three hundred million at her fingertips, she wondered if she could finally have that nine-million-dor dress she¡¯d wanted. But with Kenny¡¯s mood already dark, she didn¡¯t dare say anything to him about it. She turned to Elsa.


    ¡°Kenny only picked out a three-thousand-dor dress for me. Isn¡¯t that a bit too cheap? There¡¯s a nine-million-dor gown at the shop, and I want that one.¡±


    Elsa nodded and picked up the card. ¡°Go ahead and order it. Get Kenny a pair of top-quality suits, too. And don¡¯t stop at one dress for yourself. You should get at least three.¡±


    Minna¡¯s smile finally appeared, but seeing Kenny still sulking took away some of her joy.


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 Chapter 842

    ?Chapter 842:


    The following morning, Brenna was in her office reviewing design drafts when her phone rang.


    She didn¡¯t recognize the number. Answering the call, she said, ¡°Hello?¡±


    A familiar voice greeted her. ¡°Miss Harper, this is Minna¡­¡±


    There was a note of hesitation, almost embarrassment, in Minna¡¯s voice. ¡°Please don¡¯t misunderstand this; I¡¯m not calling to stir up trouble for you. I just have a small favor to ask.¡±


    Brenna didn¡¯t have a good impression of Minna, and her tone was cold. ¡°What is it that you want?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d rather discuss it in person. It¡¯s hard to exin over the phone. I¡¯ll wait for you at the caf¨¦ below the Mitchell Group building,¡± Minna said, sounding sincere. She was no longer arrogant like before.


    Brenna pondered for a moment. With Minna and Kenny¡¯s engagement banqueting up soon, she wondered what Minna wanted now. Was there going to be ast-minute change to the engagement banquet?


    Inside the caf¨¦ on the ground floor, a low hum of conversation filled the space as two women sat across from each other. A waiter approached, setting down two cups of coffee and a pair of beautifully ted desserts, each one topped with a glossy cherry.


    Rather than digging in, Brenna focused on Minna. Something about her seemed off. She was about to get engaged, something she should be happy about, but she seemed downcast.


    Minna¡¯s makeup was wless, her earrings were beautiful, and her fitted dress ttered her slender figure with refined elegance. Despite this, she appeared preupied, her gaze fixed on the coffee she was stirring absentmindedly.


    Brenna said nothing. She simply waited for Minna to speak.


    After a while, Minna looked up. Her voice was soft. ¡°Miss Harper¡­ You look stunning.¡±


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    That caught Brenna off guard. ¡°I¡¯ve always looked like this,¡± she replied smoothly. ¡°But you¡¯re glowing today, too. Congrattions on your uing engagement.¡±


    A tight smile crossed Minna¡¯s lips. ¡°Yeah¡­ I¡¯m getting engaged soon.¡± However, she didn¡¯t like Kenny. He was too domineering andcked gentleness. He didn¡¯t understand a girl¡¯s heart or know how to be romantic. Most importantly, he wasn¡¯t as wealthy as Ethan.


    If she had a choice, she would still prefer to marry Ethan. But she didn¡¯t have that choice.


    Reaching the end of her patience, Brenna gave a polite smile and said, ¡°If you have something to say, Minna, just get to the point.¡±


    This caf¨¦ wasn¡¯t new to her. She had visited a few times before and had grown fond of their rich coffee and delicate pastries. She took a neat bite of her dessert, savoring the vor, content to enjoy herself.


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 Chapter 843

    ?Chapter 843:


    Meanwhile, Minna barely touched her te. She didn¡¯t add sugar to her coffee, as if the bitterness of the coffee could mask the bitterness in her heart.


    She let out a sigh. Then, slowly, she turned to Brenna. ¡°I heard Ethan gave you a diamond tiara for your birthday¡­¡±


    Brenna¡¯s brow lifted slightly. She didn¡¯t need to ask why Minna brought that up¡ªnot with the engagement looming. Minna probably wanted to borrow it.


    ¡°Yeah, a lot of people know about that,¡± Brenna kept her tone light, eyes steady. ¡°Why did you suddenly mention it?¡± She feigned ignorance, pretending not to guess Minna¡¯s intention to borrow the tiara.


    Minna hadn¡¯t expected Brenna to see through it so quickly. Rumors said Ethan¡¯s birthday gift to Brenna had cost a fortune¡ª1.3 billion, to be exact. The tiara was legendary.


    It was indeed a valuable piece, but Minna only wanted to wear it for a short while and then return it to Brenna. That wasn¡¯t too much to ask, right?


    After all, they would be family in the future.


    When Brenna didn¡¯t offer the tiara outright, Minna¡¯s smile faltered. ¡°Would it be alright if I borrowed your tiara? Just for one day?¡± As soon as the words left her mouth, she kept her eyes glued to Brenna, hoping for a positive response.


    In her mind, it wasn¡¯t a big ask. Someone like Brenna, who was from a wealthy family, surely wouldn¡¯t care much about a single piece. Besides, Minna had heard that in wealthy families, everything was used only once¡ªluxurious dresses and expensive jewelry. Rich people would just forget about them after using them once.


    With that logic, she convinced herself that Brenna wouldn¡¯t even wear the tiara again in public. So, it would be totally okay for her to borrow it.


    Still silent, Brenna took another bite of dessert, perfectly unbothered. The clock ticked past a minute, and Minna¡¯s nerves began to fray. She leaned in slightly.


    ¡°Miss Harper, it¡¯s just for the engagement banquet. You don¡¯t even have to bring it to me ahead of time. Just give it to me on the day of my engagement. I¡¯ll give it back right after. Nothing will happen to it, I swear.¡±


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    Lifting her head, Brenna met her gaze with a softugh. ¡°I thought my silence already answered you.¡±


    The response stung more than Minna had expected. Her cheeks burned as the realization hit¡ªBrenna had been refusing her with her silence earlier.


    Minna sat there, stiff and ashamed, wishing she had never asked in the first ce.


    ¡°I get it¡­¡± she muttered, though bitternessced her tone. ¡°But we¡¯re both going to marry someone from the Mitchell family, right? We¡¯ll be family in the future. Isn¡¯t it natural for us to help each other?¡±


    Brenna kept her voice calm but firm.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you think such things shouldn¡¯t be borrowed? Given the Mitchell family¡¯s wealth, they should be able to afford to buy you a decent piece of jewelry.¡±


    Brenna knew that Ethan ran his business on his own. The Mitchell Group wasn¡¯t a family venture. The rest of the Mitchell family served in the military, lived on modest paychecks, and probably didn¡¯t have much money in savings.


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 Chapter 844

    ?Chapter 844:


    Still, she knew well enough that Ethan would definitely set aside spending money for his parents. As for Kenny, she couldn¡¯t say for sure if he had received money from Ethan. But she was sure about one thing¡ªEthan¡¯s parents had more than enough money and no reason whatsoever to borrow jewelry.


    Across the table, Minna sat frozen, her face flushed with humiliation. She couldn¡¯t possibly admit the truth. Kenny had bought her a tiara¡ªsmall, cheap, with a few basic gems and barely any diamonds. At most, it was worth three hundred thousand.


    In her eyes, it was too cheap. Wearing it at her engagement party would be humiliating.


    Minna felt profoundly hurt and frustrated. She felt this was so unfair. Brenna was set to join the Mitchell family through marriage one day, and Ethan had bestowed upon her a birthday gift valued at an astonishing 1.3 billion.


    If a birthday present could be so opulent, what extravagance awaited her engagement? And the wedding?


    Kenny and Ethan, twin brothers, couldn¡¯t have been more different in their gifting¡ªKenny¡¯s offerings to her paled inparison to Ethan¡¯s grand gestures toward Brenna. For her engagement, Minna foresaw herself draped in modest attire and inexpensive jewelry, an easy target for scorn and ridicule.


    She was determined not to fade into Brenna¡¯s shadow.


    ¡°Please, I¡¯m pleading with you,¡± Minna said, her voice thick with desperation. ¡°Since we¡¯re both destined to be members of the Mitchell family, could you lend me a hand? I promise I¡¯ll take care of the tiara well and return it to you immediately after the engagement party.¡±


    Brenna, unruffled, savored the final spoonful of her dessert before responding with a chilly gaze. ¡°Why should I help you? Have you forgotten how you treated me in the past?¡±


    She reached for her handbag, pulled out some cash, and ced it on the table. ¡°I¡¯ll pay for this.¡± Then, she stood up and left.


    After what Minna had done to her, now she had the audacity to ask for a favor? Did she really think Brenna could be so forgiving? Did Minna truly believe she could treat her like this?


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    Tears cascaded down Minna¡¯s cheeks.


    She had swallowed her pride to beg, yet Brenna remained unmoved¡ªcruelly so.


    It was unbearable. Brenna was deliberately orchestrating a humiliating contrast, ensuring that she, the shabbily dressed daughter-inw, would be looked down upon by all.


    Brenna was so vicious!


    Did wealth grant her the right to be like this? Did it permit her to degrade people at a whim?


    Minna only wanted to stand out, to avoid mockery and belittlement¡ªwas that so wrong?


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 Chapter 845

    ?Chapter 845:


    In the afternoon, after work, Brenna brought the prosthetic she had received straight to Ableson¡¯s residence. Ableson and Shepard lived in the same upscale neighborhood, their homes just a short distance apart.


    As Brenna pulled up, she spotted Rosie emerging from Ableson¡¯s ce, nked by Lenora and Audrey, all wearing smiles. Rosie approached Brenna¡¯s car, her expression tinged with subtle hostility.


    ¡°Fancy seeing you here. What¡¯s the asion?¡± Rosie asked.


    Brenna, maintaining her usual aloofposure, replied, ¡°I¡¯m dropping off a prosthetic for Ableson.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s face suddenly flickered with unease. Ableson was injured and hadn¡¯t fully recovered yet. Initially, everyone in the Harper family had suspected Rosie was behind his injury, so they had disliked her. Although it waster proven that she and Maxley weren¡¯t responsible, the Harper family still held a grudge against her. Brenna couldn¡¯t fathom why Lenora and Audrey were being so friendly to Rosie this time.


    Rosie¡¯s eyes darted to the rectangr box in Brenna¡¯s car. ¡°I heard your prosthetic business is thriving¡ªorders booked solid for the next two years?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s doing alright,¡± Brenna replied curtly, uninterested in small talk with someone as calcting as Rosie.


    Brenna got out of her car with the box. Turning to Lenora and Audrey, she handed it over. Audrey took it eagerly, saying, ¡°I¡¯ll get this to my father now.¡±


    Rosie offered a polite goodbye to Lenora before slipping into her car and driving off.


    Audrey exined to Brenna, ¡°Rosie came to check on my father and even suggested taking him overseas for treatment. Mom shut that down. His injury isn¡¯t recent. Rosie only showed up now pretending to care. So fake.¡±


    Lenora¡¯s voice dripped with irritation. ¡°Her words were so insincere, and she was pretending we¡¯re all close. I bet she¡¯s just trying to get Ableson to sway your dad into supporting her. Does she really think we¡¯re fools? We can see through her intentions right away.¡±


    Entering the house, Brenna greeted Ableson, who sat in his wheelchair, eyeing the prosthetic with curiosity.


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    ¡°Hello, Uncle Ableson,¡± Brenna said. ¡°Want me to help you try it on?¡±


    Lenora stepped in, opening the box. ¡°No need for that; I¡¯ll handle it. I¡¯ve been caring for him for years¡ªI know how to fit it.¡± Brenna didn¡¯t protest.


    Audrey handed Brenna a ss of water and sat down beside her. ¡°I heard that a few uncles have already signed big deals with Rosie, and the order amounts are substantial; thergest order is about 400 million.¡±


    Brenna wasn¡¯t shocked. ¡°Don¡¯t let it bother you. They may not like Rosie, but they like her money. My dad is already ignoring her schemes. She can do whatever she wants, but the Harper Group won¡¯t back her. He says she¡¯s ruthless, with no boundaries, so we can¡¯t cooperate with her.¡±


    Audrey sighed. ¡°How did we miss who she really was before? When I was young, I thought she was kind. Maybe because her real parents weren¡¯t around; no matter how well Dad and Uncle treated her, she always felt like an outsider.¡±


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 Chapter 846

    ?Chapter 846:


    Lenora, adjusting the prosthetic on Ableson, nodded. ¡°Exactly. No matter how much others cared for her, they weren¡¯t her blood. Growing up like that, she¡¯s probably far more cunning than any of us realized.¡±


    Ableson pushed himself up from the wheelchair with the prosthetic and moved across the living room, testing his steps. He nced down at the prosthetic and gave an approving nod. ¡°This is great. It¡¯s light, steady, and doesn¡¯t throw off my bnce.¡±


    Watching him maneuver so easily made Brenna feel relieved. Once they wrapped up their small talk, she excused herself and headed home for the night.


    The next day, the town was buzzing with excitement¡ªit was Kenny and Minna¡¯s engagement celebration. Brenna chose a dark-toned dress from Ellie, something elegant but low-key.


    When Ethan pulled up to pick her up and caught sight of her dress, he let out a yful chuckle. ¡°Wearing such a low-key color? What, scared you¡¯ll steal Minna¡¯s thunder?¡±


    Brenna raised an eyebrow and let a sly smile tug at her lips. ¡°Exactly,¡± she replied. As a guest, she couldn¡¯t steal the spotlight from Minna.


    Noticing Ethan¡¯s outfit, Brenna saw he¡¯d stuck with his usual style¡ªanother well-fitted dark gray suit. Nothing shy.


    They pulled up to the Peace Hotel, where the event was already underway. The venue buzzed with activity, packed with guests, many of whom wore sharp military uniforms. Many of them were invited by Emmett and Elsa. Minna¡¯s mother, who also worked in the military, had invited many people from the military as well.


    Surrounded by a crowd of uniformed officers, Brenna and Ethan couldn¡¯t help but feel slightly out of ce.


    Vincent had shown up early and was already deep in conversation with several high-ranking officers, smiling andughing among them. The officers praised Vincent for how well he had bounced back from his illness. They said no one would ever guess he had gone through a cerebral hemorrhage because he looked no different from anyone else.


    Hearing such words made Vincent even more cheerful.


    Feel the magic on g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s


    ¡°Brenna, Ethane join us.¡±


    The moment Ethan and Brenna stepped in, Vincent noticed them and waved them over. Among the officers nearby, Brenna recognized a familiar face¡ªit was Braeden.


    She reached out for a handshake. ¡°It¡¯s been a while.¡±


    Braeden¡¯s energy was as bright as ever. ¡°Miss Harper, you seem more dazzling than before. I almost didn¡¯t recognize you when you walked in.¡±


    ¡°You are ttering me,¡± Brenna replied with a smile.


    Vincent began introducing Brenna to the group of officers. ¡°This is my grandson¡¯s girlfriend, the one who cured me. The cardiovascr medication that helped me¡ªshe developed it herself. She¡¯s truly exceptional.¡±


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 Chapter 847

    ?Chapter 847:


    Braeden quickly added his own praise, saying, ¡°She¡¯s a rare gem in more than one field.¡±


    Braeden avoided speaking too openly, as certain topics were off-limits, but it wasn¡¯t necessary for him to borate. Everyone understood what he meant. The way they looked at Brenna revealed nothing but admiration. At her age, mastering medicine and designing something for the military was nothing short of astounding. Who wouldn¡¯t admire someone like that?


    ¡°Vincent, you¡¯re reallyying it on thick. I¡¯m far from amazing,¡± Brenna replied, feeling uneasy about receiving such heavy praise. Though it was nice to hear, it felt somewhat ufortable.


    Ethan draped his arm around Brenna¡¯s shoulder and shook hands with the officers with his free hand. The officers had watched Ethan grow up and rise to the CEO position of the powerful Mitchell Group. They believed Ethan and Brenna were truly a perfect match.


    Compliments flowed freely, and Ethan kept the conversation going with ease, while Brenna asionally added her thoughts. The mood was cheerful.


    On the other side of the room, Elsa was quietly fuming. She believed Brenna had stolen the attention meant for Minna. The bride-to-be had barely received a few kind words before the crowd¡¯s focus shifted elsewhere.


    Everything had changed when Brenna showed up. She quickly became the center of attention.


    Emmett also noticed how much attention Brenna was drawing. He was displeased, but he remained silent. He had once admired her many strengths, but Ethan¡¯s recent behavior had soured his impression of her.


    Brenna had everything going for her¡ªintelligence, grace, charm, and talent. Yet despite all of that, Emmett simply couldn¡¯t bring himself to like her.


    While others were enthusiastically chatting with Brenna, he stood nearby with a grim expression, his dislike for her evident.


    An officer named Perry approached Brenna. ¡°Miss Harper, Vincent mentioned that your medicine was the key to his recovery. My mother suffered a cerebral thrombosisst winter and has been struggling with lingering issues. They¡¯ve made everyday life very difficult for her. I was wondering if I could purchase that medicine from you?¡±


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    Brenna responded in an apologetic tone, ¡°I¡¯m afraid that medicine requires an extremely rare nt called Woodham. It¡¯s hardly found anywhere. I managed to acquire one during an auction, but it¡¯s already beenpletely used. The medicine I made with Woodham is all sold out.¡±


    Perry¡¯s face fell in disappointment. ¡°That¡¯s a pity. But my soldiers are often deployed to remote areas. If theye across that nt, maybe they can get some for you. Could you send me a photo of the nt? If we find any, I¡¯ll bring it to you. Would you be able to make more medicine then?¡±


    Brenna didn¡¯t turn him down. She added his contact details and sent over the photo.


    She said, ¡°Woodham usually thrives on cliff sides and prefers damp surroundings. If you or your people happen to spot it, let me know. I¡¯m willing to pay a high price to acquire it.¡±


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 Chapter 848

    ?Chapter 848:


    After chatting with Perry for a while, Brenna felt a gentle tug on her sleeve. Turning around, she saw Lilith smiling at her.


    ¡°Hey, when did you get here?¡± Brenna asked, guiding Lilith over to the dessert table. She grabbed two slices of cake and poured a ss of blueberry juice before they settled in a quiet spot nearby.


    ¡°I just came with your brother,¡± Lilith replied, tipping her chin toward Ernst.


    Not far off, Ernst was in conversation with Ethan and a few uniformed officers. Brenna realized she hadn¡¯t noticed Ernst¡¯s arrival, too wrapped up in her own chat with Perry earlier.


    ¡°This dress looks amazing on you,¡± Brennamented, unable to hide how striking Lilith looked. The dress hugged her frame perfectly, giving her an air of effortless elegance.


    ¡°Ernst actually picked it out with me,¡± Lilith said, shaking her head as if still in disbelief. ¡°You won¡¯t believe how much it cost¡ªfour million and eight hundred thousand! Such a high price for just a dress. I said it was too expensive, but Ernst insisted it wasn¡¯t.¡±


    Lilith let out a quiet sigh. ¡°Honestly, I think your brother just enjoys splurging on things.¡±


    Brenna grinned. ¡°You¡¯ll get used to it. If he insists on buying it for you, just let him. You wearing it is all he wants to see.¡±


    Lilith¡¯s gaze drifted to Brenna¡¯s outfit. ¡°What about your dress? Did Mr. Mitchell buy this one for you? I heard thest one you wore to his ce was worth seven million. You only wore it for that one asion. That is wild!¡±


    There was something sweet about Lilith¡¯s genuine surprise. She clearly hadn¡¯t adapted to thevish ways of the rich. Brenna said, ¡°Actually, a friend gave me this one, so I¡¯m not sure how much it costs. Ethan had nothing to do with it.¡±


    Lilith nodded, thinking that Brenna wasn¡¯t quite as extravagant as Ernst.


    A momentter, Lilith dug into her purse and shed a card at Brenna. ¡°See this? Your brother gave this to me and told me to go shopping. I think he¡¯s tired of seeing me in budget outfits. I want to try picking out something fancy, but I have no idea where to start. Would you go shopping with me next time and help me with it? I could really use some help.¡±


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    ¡°Of course. That sounds fun!¡± Brenna grinned, already warming to the idea. ¡°Let¡¯s hit the shops together this weekend. I also need a wardrobe refresh for myself.¡±


    Although Brenna had mingled for quite a while, she hadn¡¯t caught sight of Minna or Kenny. It wasn¡¯t until nearly eleven-thirty that the stars of the day finally made their entrance.


    Kenny stepped out first in a sharp royal blue suit tailored to perfection. Minna, in a ssic white wedding gown, glided beside him.


    The entire crowd shifted its attention to the newly arrived couple. Curiosity got the best of Brenna as she tried to catch a glimpse of Minna¡¯s headpiece, wondering which tiara Minna had chosen since she had refused to lend her the diamond tiara.


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 Chapter 849

    ?Chapter 849:


    Leaning closer, Lilith whispered to Brenna, ¡°She¡¯s lovely. Someone mentioned she¡¯s a flight attendant. But why does the groom look so unhappy? He looks so tense, like he¡¯s being dragged into this against his will.¡±


    Brenna nodded, moving with Lilith to join Ethan and Ernst.


    As they drew near, Brenna finally saw the tiara Minna had chosen¡ªa three-inch tiara glittering with diamonds. It was beautiful, no doubt about it. Brenna couldn¡¯t help but wonder why Minna had insisted on borrowing the piece she¡¯d already worn before.


    Minna, meanwhile, spotted Brenna in the crowd. Brenna had chosen a simple outfit to avoid outshining her, but Minna still disliked her. She gave Brenna a fleeting, cold nce before looking away.


    With a clear voice, the emcee signaled that the engagement ceremony was beginning. All eyes turned to the couple as they were about to exchange rings.


    Minna cast a quick look at Ethan; he looked indifferent. He sat beside Brenna, their fingersced together, a detail that soured Minna¡¯s mood. Suddenly, a voice rang out from the doorway. ¡°Wait!¡±


    Everyone¡¯s attention snapped to a young woman in military uniform. She carried herself with unmistakable confidence, each step measured as she headed straight for the stage.


    The instant Kenny recognized her, his expression changed, and he discreetly tucked the ring back into his pocket.


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Kenny¡¯s excitement was hard to miss as he took the young woman¡¯s hand.


    A wave of unease swept over Minna. She grabbed Kenny¡¯s arm and shot him a fierce look. ¡°Who is she?¡± she demanded.


    The young woman¡¯s eyes narrowed, locking onto Minna before shifting her gaze to Kenny. ¡°Is she really the woman you want to marry? Kenny, just be honest with me. Do you actually love her?¡± Her gaze was filled with affection as she looked at him.


    No one in the room had anticipated this twist. Elsa and Emmett exchanged dark nces, both visibly displeased by the sudden intrusion.


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    Originally, Minna was supposed to marry Ethan, but Elsa¡¯s matchmaking had failed. To save face for everyone involved¡ªElsa, Minna, and Minna¡¯s parents¡ªMinna had agreed to marry Kenny instead.


    She already felt humiliated enough, but this incident made it worse. Her voice trembled as she asked, ¡°Kenny, who is this woman? Tell me!¡±


    The young woman spoke again, her eyes fixed on Kenny. ¡°Kenny, don¡¯t let anyone push you into a decision you¡¯ll regret. Be honest with yourself. Do you truly want to go through with this?¡± Kenny was torn, holding the young woman¡¯s hand tightly.


    Lilith leaned in close to Brenna, her eyes sparkling with excitement. ¡°This is better than any drama I¡¯ve ever watched!¡±


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 Chapter 850

    ?Chapter 850:


    ¡°What is happening right now? Who is she?¡± Brenna asked as she turned to Ethan, her voice steady and calm. Her eyes flickered with curiosity, though her face remained neutral, as if she didn¡¯t care who the young woman was.


    ¡°I have no clue who she is,¡± Ethan replied with a small shrug. ¡°I usually stay out of anything involving Kenny. I don¡¯t bother asking about his life in the military. Still, that girl looks like she means something to him.¡± His tone was casual, as he brushed the matter aside, but the slight curl at the corner of his lips revealed his intrigue.


    He was surprised by the woman¡¯s sudden arrival. What worried him more, though, was how his controlling mother might take it.


    Ethan¡¯s gaze shifted to Elsa and Emmett. Both had gone pale with fury, their eyes burning with intensity as they red at the young woman. It was clear they wanted her gone.


    In front of everyone, the young woman boldly snatched the diamond ring from Kenny¡¯s hand and tossed it to the floor. Without hesitation, she threw her arms around him. ¡°I will not let anyone take you away from me,¡± she dered, her voice firm as she looked into Kenny¡¯s eyes and gave him a small shake. ¡°Is this really what you want? To just do whatever your parents decide for you?¡±


    The urgency in her voice was undeniable. ¡°You are a soldier, Kenny. You are not some puppet your parents can control.¡±


    Her words hung in the air. The room fell silent. For a moment, everyone just stared at the scene. In Kenny¡¯s eyes, something began to flicker.


    ¡°I am a soldier. I have a soul of my own,¡± Kenny muttered under his breath, barely audible but filled with meaning.


    ¡°That is the Kenny I love!¡± the young woman said, her eyes sparkling with determination. She grabbed his hand, ready to take him away.


    ¡°Stop right there!¡± Elsa snapped, rushing over quickly. She knew exactly who the young woman was. ¡°Her name is Rosanna Haynes,¡± Elsa exined, furycing her words. ¡°She¡¯s a fellow pilot from Kenny¡¯s flight squadron. She stands out not only because she¡¯s one of the few women in the unit but also because of her striking beauty, her tall frame, and her sharp intelligence. Rosannaes from a powerful family. Her father holds a post in the military, and her mother is an aplished executive in the corporate world.¡±


    Many men in the military were captivated by Rosanna.


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    But Rosanna had always been too proud to care¡ªuntil she fell in love with Kenny.


    To Elsa, Rosanna was nothing but a problem. She carried herself with confidence, never yed the submissive role, and didn¡¯t try to please others. She was hard to manipte, and Elsa despised her for that.


    ¡°Let go of my son and leave this ce right now,¡± Elsa¡¯s voice rang out, firm and cold. Her disapproval was clear on her face.


    Pulling a stunt like this at an engagement party was an insult to both families, especially in front of Minna¡¯s rtives, who stood by in shock. If Rosanna seeded in taking Kenny away, Elsa feared the Davies family would resent the Mitchell family forever.


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 Chapter 851

    ?Chapter 851:


    Watching his mother¡¯s rage build, Kenny grew anxious. He was afraid she might do something drastic to hurt Rosanna. Stepping in front of Rosanna, he used his body to shield her. ¡°Mom, please calm down. Let me exin.¡±


    Elsa moved forward, grabbing his arm and pulling him to the side. ¡°Exin? Everyone here saw what happened. What could you possibly exin? That woman is here to ruin the engagement!¡±


    ¡°Ms. Mitchell,¡± Rosanna said, her voice calm yet firm. To her, Kenny had always been too quick to yield when his mother raised her voice. Thatck of backbone had always disappointed her. No wonder the military had dismissed him when he¡¯d gotten into trouble. ¡°Kenny and I are in love. We¡¯ve been together for three years. We were even nning to register our marriage next month. I¡¯m not here to ruin anything. I¡¯m only here to make Kenny listen to his heart.¡±


    Rosanna¡¯s voice rang with conviction as she turned to face Kenny. ¡°Say it, Kenny. Tell them who you really love.¡±


    Feeling torn, Kenny looked down. From the very beginning, he had never had any real intention of marrying Minna.


    He had only agreed to this for his parents. He especially didn¡¯t want to upset his mother, worried that if she got angry, her health issues would re up.


    Elsa already knew that her son had no feelings for Minna, but she could no longer back out now. She had humiliated the Davies family once before. If this engagement party ended in disaster, she might turn the Davies family into lifelong enemies.


    She said, ¡°Rosanna, I suggest you stop causing a scene. You should leave now, before I lose my patience. My son doesn¡¯t love you. Today is the day he bes engaged to his girlfriend. If you try to interfere again, I will not be polite.¡±


    Rosanna stood her ground. She hated how fake Elsa could be. She already knew Elsa had never liked her, but that never changed how she felt about Kenny. Even if she married him one day, she had no ns of cozying up to Elsa. She would keep her distance and avoid any unnecessary conflicts.


    Kenny stepped away from Elsa and moved back to Rosanna¡¯s side. ¡°Mom, I cannot marry Minna. We are not meant for each other. This whole thing started because I went on a blind date pretending to be Ethan. Please stop forcing this on me.¡±


    ¡°What is happening right now?¡± Minna¡¯s parents hurried over, their voices sharp as they confronted Elsa. ¡°First, you insisted our daughter should date your youngest son, saying he was fond of her. Then you turned around and imed it was your eldest who had feelings for her. And now it turns out your eldest son doesn¡¯t care for her at all. Are you ying games with our family?¡±


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    At that moment, Elsa raised her hand and pped Kenny across the face.


    Minna stood frozen under the stares of hundreds of guests, her face burning with shame and frustration. She had already experienced the sting of rejection once¡ªwas it about to happen again?


    A voice deep inside her howled in protest. No, she couldn¡¯t let this happen. If she were cast aside again, the humiliation would be unbearable. Everyone in the military would mock her. Her rtives would gossip. Her own parents and brother would be targets of ridicule.


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 Chapter 852

    ?Chapter 852:


    She refused to let that happen.


    Frantically scanning the venue, she failed to find anything suitable to act on. Then, her eyes locked onto the champagne tower. Without hesitation, she reached up, grabbed a ss from the topmost tier, and mmed it to the floor, shattering it with force. Clutching a jagged piece of the broken ss, she held it tightly to her neck and eximed, ¡°Kenny, if you dare leave with her, I will kill myself!¡±


    Elsa, consumed with fury, her chest rising and falling with each heavy breath, shouted, ¡°Kenny, is this what I raised you for? To upset me like this? You are not leaving this ce unless I am dead!¡± Her re locked onto Kenny with scorching intensity.


    Brenna, now finding the entire situation unbearable, turned to Ethan and asked, ¡°Are you not going to do anything?¡±


    Ethan kept his eyes on the chaos unfolding before him. His brows were drawn together in thought. ¡°This has nothing to do with me. I just solved my own problems. Why should I clean up someone else¡¯s mess? And you should stay out of it, too. Let¡¯s just sit back and watch. I want to see what my obedient brother will do this time.¡±


    Brenna then noticed that Ethan let out a coldugh. She could see it now. Elsa had created this disaster with her own hands.


    Rosanna stood her ground. There was no fear in her eyes. Quick to assess the situation, she swept her gaze across the crowd and noticed several high-ranking officers from the military scattered throughout the venue. Still, she knew this was not military business. This was a Mitchell family matter, and the officers had no intention of intervening. No one wanted to touch the fire, especially with Elsa¡¯s vtile temper, Emmett¡¯s powerful background, and Vincent¡¯s power as head of the Mitchell family. Not to mention, Ethan was the wealthiest man in the world. Meddling now would mean trouble.


    Rosanna raised her voice as she said, ¡°Mrs. Mitchell, threatening someone with death is nothing new. I can do it too. Is this the only low tactic you have left to control Kenny? Is this how you¡¯ve kept him under your thumb all these years? I am disgusted by it.¡±


    Minna rushed forward, her parents close behind. Without flinching, she pressed the sharp ss harder into her skin, a thin trickle of blood appearing.


    She looked utterly broken, her eyes filled with despair and fury. Losing to Brenna was something she could eventually ept. Ethan was the richest man alive, after all. It made sense that he would choose someone beautiful, intelligent, confident, and full of potential like Brenna over her.


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    But Rosanna? What gave her the right topete with her? She was just a pilot. Her status could notpare to Brenna¡¯s. What made Rosanna think she had the right topete with her for Kenny?


    Was she just supposed to let everyone trample on her like this? No. Not today. If it came to that, she was willing to risk everything, even her life, to stop Kenny from leaving.


    She pressed the jagged ss firmly into her neck, and blood poured out, soaking through the white fabric of her dress in a sh of crimson. A collective gasp spread through the crowd, and even her parents urged her to calm down.


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 Chapter 853

    ?Chapter 853:


    Her mother, a military officer herself, said anxiously, ¡°Minna, please don¡¯t act out like this. Kenny is not the kind of man who would abandon you easily!¡±


    Her voice rose as she turned to Kenny, her face twisted with fury. ¡°Kenny, look at what you¡¯ve done to my daughter! Is this really how far you¡¯re willing to go just to walk away with that woman?¡±


    Rosanna¡¯s grip on Kenny¡¯s hand never wavered. Her eyes were steady, unshaken, locked onto his. ¡°If you give in now, you¡¯ll spend the rest of your life giving in. You will never get to live the way you want. Kenny, they are trying to control you. Do not let them win. If they really want to die so much, let them. Let¡¯s leave!¡±


    Without another word, Rosanna grabbed Kenny¡¯s hand and left with him.


    They didn¡¯t look back once. In a matter of seconds, they disappeared from the hall entirely.


    Behind them, the room descended into chaos.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Minna let out a piercing scream, driven by heartbreak, and pushed the ss even deeper into her skin. Before she could go any further, several soldiers rushed in and tore the shard from her hand.


    Minna looked around at the eyes watching her¡ªsome sympathetic, some mocking, and some indifferent. Brenna¡¯s gaze seemed to say, ¡°You brought this upon yourself.¡±


    At that moment, Minna felt like nothing more than a joke.


    The next second, she passed out.


    Minna¡¯s father rushed forward and caught her before she could hit the floor, shouting her name in panic.


    Her mother, shaking with rage, turned on Elsa and pped her across the face with all her strength. ¡°This is all your fault!¡±


    Elsa pressed her hand to her cheek, stunned. This had be the most humiliating day of her life. She had spent her entire career on stage, earning respect and admiration. Yet now, both of her sons had turned their backs on her.


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    Her eldest son had always been obedient, but today, he had defied her in front of everyone. Fury swelled inside her chest. Her head began to throb, and her vision blurred at the edges.


    Meanwhile, Emmett stayedposed, calling Kenny and demanding he return immediately.


    Ethan noticed the color drain from Elsa¡¯s face and quickly moved to steady her. ¡°Mom, you need to calm down.¡±


    ¡°How can I calm down now?¡± Elsa eximed just before her knees buckled. Then, she fainted.


    Observing Elsa¡¯s evident difort, Brenna approached and gently massaged a few pressure points on Elsa¡¯s head and neck.


    Elsa, leaning into Ethan for support, slowly regained herposure. Under the circumstances, continuing the engagement party was clearly out of the question. With Kenny having left and Minna whisked away to the hospital, the guests felt it was best to leave. So, the guests Ethan had invited tactfully started to depart, one by one. Meanwhile, the guests Emmett had invited stayed behind, offering words of sce to Emmett and Vincent.


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 Chapter 854

    ?Chapter 854:


    Lilith softly pulled at Brenna¡¯s sleeve, whispering, ¡°I¡¯ll leave with Ernst now.¡±


    Brenna gave a nod.


    Ernst gave Ethan¡¯s shoulder a light pat, exchanged a knowing nce with him, and left with Lilith.


    As they walked, Lilith clung to Ernst¡¯s arm in silence, but once inside the car, she eximed, ¡°That was wild!¡±


    Ernst shot her a nce, sensing the eager curiosity in her eyes. ¡°Pretty dramatic, right? Bet you didn¡¯t expect such chaos in high society.¡±


    Lilith bobbed her head. ¡°Totally! I just can¡¯t wrap my head around Kenny¡¯s thinking. If he wasn¡¯t into Minna, why agree to get engaged to her? Doesn¡¯t that make him kind of a jerk?¡±


    ¡°Jerk?¡± Ernst mused, pausing briefly. ¡°Maybe a little. If he wasn¡¯t interested in Minna, he shouldn¡¯t have caved to his mom¡¯s pressure and agreed to the engagement. Now look at the mess.¡±


    ¡°He has dragged the military¡¯s reputation through the mud,¡± Lilith said with a sigh, clearly disapproving of Kenny¡¯s actions.


    Ernst remained silent, offering no furtherment.


    In the engagement hall, the guests had cleared out, leaving only the Mitchell family, their faces etched with dismay. Elsa was still fuming. She said, ¡°I¡¯ve cherished him above everything since he was a boy, raising him to excel in every way. He¡¯s handsome, dutiful, respectful, and thriving in the military. With his talent and our backing, he could have risen to regimentmander, maybe even be a military district chief someday. How could he be so reckless and cruel¡­¡±


    Ethan said, ¡°Mom, if you hadn¡¯t pushed him to pretend he was me, would¡­?¡±


    ¡°Would he have been kicked out of the military? I think you should stay out of our affairs from now on; focus on enjoying your retirement and looking after yourself.¡±


    Brenna silently agreed with Ethan but kept her thoughts to herself, sitting apart from the Mitchell family to steer clear of Elsa¡¯s wrath.


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    She believed that both sons of the Mitchell family had been on solid paths, capable and aplished, until their mother¡¯s meddling derailed them.


    Brenna figured Elsa must be drowning in regret.


    Vincent, with Cason steadying him, said, ¡°Let¡¯s head home.¡± Brenna noted Vincent¡¯s calm demeanor¡ªno trace of anger or embarrassment over the day¡¯s fiasco. Hisposure was impressive.


    Rising smoothly, Brenna turned to Ethan. ¡°I¡¯m leaving, too.¡±


    Elsa shot her a sharp re, which Brenna brushed off, walking toward the exit.


    As soon as Brenna left, Elsa turned to Ethan, ¡°See that? She¡¯s probably mocking me in her head, cursing me, hoping I would drop dead.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s brow furrowed; he disagreed with Elsapletely. He saw Brenna as sharp, perceptive, and skilled at knowing when to step in or stay out. She handled things with poise.


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 Chapter 855

    ?Chapter 855:


    ¡°Mom, don¡¯t say that. You are overthinking things,¡± he said, defending Brenna.


    Lately, Elsa had been at odds with Ethan, but seeing him manage the fallout without resentment, she still considered him her thoughtful son. Emmett rose, saying to Elsa, ¡°I¡¯ll go smooth things over with the Davies family. You don¡¯t look great; go home and rest. Ethan can handle things here.¡±


    Ethan stood, shaking his head. ¡°No, Dad, you take Mom home. I¡¯ll deal with the Davies family.¡±


    Emmett met Ethan¡¯s gaze, knowing full well how Ethan would handle the matter¡ªusing his wealth to resolve the issue.


    Ethan wouldn¡¯t lower himself or say nice words to deal with this. He would only use money to do it.


    Though Emmett disliked this tactic, he knew it was effective.


    ¡°Fine, go. But watch your tone¡ªdon¡¯t be too brash. We¡¯re the ones who wronged them,¡± Emmett said.


    Ethan nodded and strode off.


    He caught up with Brenna at the elevator. She was waiting there, arms crossed.


    ¡°Are you heading to the Davies family?¡± Brenna asked lightly, already anticipating that Ethan would be the best person to handle this.


    Ethan nodded. ¡°Yes. Do you want toe with me?¡±


    Brenna shook her head. ¡°No, I would just get an earful if I showed up.¡± She arched a brow, secretly pitying Elsa, who seemed betrayed by both of her sons. But she kept that to herself, not wanting to upset Ethan.


    ¡°I¡¯ll get you home first,¡± Ethan said as he stepped into the elevator with Brenna. ¡°You skipped lunch, right? Are you hungry?¡±


    As he spoke, Ethan¡¯s mind began drifting to where they might grab a bite together before dealing with the headache that was the Davies family.


    ¡°No, I¡¯m fine. Lilith and I had some pastries and juice earlier.¡± Lowering her voice, Brenna asked, ¡°So, what¡¯s your n for handling the Davies family?¡±


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    Catching the hint in Brenna¡¯s eyes, Ethan smirked. ¡°Isn¡¯t it obvious? I¡¯m just going to throw money at them until the problem is solved.¡±


    Brenna replied sarcastically, ¡°Right. It¡¯s not like your family can go there and apologize to them.¡±


    Ethan caught on immediately. ¡°You mean, I should get my parents and brother to apologize to them in person?¡±


    ¡°Yeah,¡± Brenna replied. ¡°If all you do is pay them off, it¡¯lle across as an insult. Let the Davies family vent their grievances, let your family take the heat, and then offerpensation. That¡¯s the only way they¡¯ll feel satisfied.¡±


    Ethan nodded in agreement. ¡°You make a good point. They¡¯ve already lost face and put up with enough. If they just took the money, they¡¯d look weak. Giving them a chance to let it out first, then handing over the money will make them satisfied.¡±


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 Chapter 856

    ?Chapter 856:


    A spark of approval shed in Brenna¡¯s eyes, almost like she was quietly impressed. ¡°Exactly. They won¡¯t ept anything until they¡¯ve vented out their frustrations. You have to remember, Minna¡¯s family are all soldiers; they¡¯re big on pride and honor.¡±


    Ethan rolled his eyes. ¡°Honor? Pride? It¡¯s all about appearances with them. Don¡¯t give them too much credit. Spend enough time with that family, and you¡¯ll see they¡¯re just as petty as anyone else¡ªmaybe even worse.¡±


    Brenna didn¡¯t argue. Once the elevator doors slid open on the ground floor, Ethan quickly asked Neville to drive Brenna home and then made his way back to the engagement hall, ready to pitch Brenna¡¯s idea to his parents.


    He arrived just as Elsa wasining about Rosanna¡¯s behavior to a few people nearby.


    Meanwhile, Emmett and Flint were caught up in their own calls. Emmett dialed Kenny while Flint tried to track down Rosanna¡¯s number through his contacts in the military, hoping to get Kenny and Rosanna to apologize to the Davies family.


    ¡°She¡¯s a pilot, yet she acted so recklessly. If she really cared about my son, she wouldn¡¯t let him be humiliated like this¡­¡± Elsa¡¯s rant came to a halt when she noticed Ethan approaching. ¡°Why are you back?¡±


    Ethan stepped beside Elsa. ¡°I think you and Dad need to go see the Davies family in person. If all I do is offer them money, it¡¯ll only make things worse.¡±


    All eyes shifted to Ethan. Emmett, clearly caught off guard, asked, ¡°Aren¡¯t you a member of the Mitchell family too? Let the Davies family vent their anger at you instead; it¡¯s the same thing. Your mother, your uncle, and I are respected figures in the military. Do you expect us to go and get yelled at?¡±


    Ethan felt resigned. ¡°I¡¯ve been against this from the beginning. I got dragged into this mess unwillingly too. But they know exactly who¡¯s at fault, and I think they¡¯ll want the people responsible¡ª you and Mom¡ª to apologize to them.¡±


    Emmett scoffed, clearly irritated with Ethan. ¡°Then what will you do? Didn¡¯t you promise you¡¯d take care of this?¡±


    As Ethan stared at his father, he couldn¡¯t help but remember the stubborn man from his childhood. Some things really never changed¡ª Emmett was just as stubborn as ever, and Elsa was the same.


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    Ethan said, ¡°It¡¯s only fair that we apologize because we¡¯re the ones who put them in this situation. You two forced Kenny into all of this. One of you has got to step up and let the Davies family vent.¡±


    Emmett shook his head in frustration. ¡°No way am I going. I¡¯m not about to embarrass myself like that. Besides, it was your mother who pressured your brother into doing that, not me. If anyone should go, it¡¯s her.¡±


    Ethan shot him a look, realizing just how unreliable his father could be. Emmett¡¯s first instinct was always to dodge trouble instead of finding a solution. Maybe that was why he¡¯d never risen above deputy divisionmander.


    It also exined why Vincent hadn¡¯t said a word and had left with Cason earlier, and why Vincent always preferred staying at Cason¡¯s ce rather than Emmett¡¯s house.


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 Chapter 857

    ?Chapter 857:


    ¡°Fine, don¡¯t go. I¡¯ll handle it, but don¡¯t me me if you face humiliationter,¡± Ethan replied, irritation creeping into his voice. He only said that out of anger. No matter how strained things were between him and his parents, he couldn¡¯t bring himself to intentionally humiliate them.


    Ethan turned around and walked off, leaving Elsa to let out a long, frustrated sigh. ¡°That Kenny! If that brat everes home again, I swear I¡¯ll teach him a lesson!¡±


    Meanwhile, at the hospital, Minna sat in the emergency room, her fresh bandages barely in ce as she broke down in tears.


    Minna¡¯s mother sat close by, wiping her own eyes as she sobbed. ¡°After all these years working alongside Elsa, this is how she treats me and my family? She has dragged our name through the mud. Not even an apology after everything that¡¯s happened.¡±


    Minna¡¯s father could only sit in silence, his brow deeply furrowed, frustration weighing heavily on him.


    Just then, Ethan arrived and approached the family. ¡°Mr. and Mrs. Davies, Minna,¡± he said, pausing in front of them. ¡°My family really didn¡¯t anticipate today¡¯s chaos.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the point of saying that now?¡± Minna¡¯s mother shot Ethan a furious look, her hand reaching out to p him.


    Ethan had arrived with two bodyguards.


    The instant it seemed like Ethan might take a hit, and with him making no move to stop it, one of the bodyguards stepped in, quickly intercepting Minna¡¯s mother by catching her wrist before she couldnd the p. An icy re from the bodyguard made her freeze, and his grip tightened just enough to make her wince in pain. Tears threatened to spill as she let out a sharp cry.


    At a signal from Ethan, the bodyguard released her and quietly returned to his position.


    ¡°Mrs. Davies, I¡¯m here to offer an apology on behalf of my parents,¡± Ethan said.


    Minna¡¯s mother, Julissa Davies, was about the same age as Elsa. They had been close friends for years, which was why Elsa had introduced Minna to her son. Normallyposed, Julissa had been deeply angered by the Mitchell family¡¯s behavior today. This frustration led her to act recklessly, wanting to p Ethan.


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    She rubbed her wrist, shot Ethan a look of pure frustration, and snapped, ¡°Is this your way of apologizing? At least try to make it seem sincere!¡±


    Minna¡¯s father, Kash Davies, stood by her side, reflecting on how highly he had once regarded the Mitchell family. Emmett and Elsa had earned his respect through their distinguished military careers and the genuine respect they showed others. Their son, Ethan, had left a strong impression on him as well. As a wealthy and powerful man, Ethan had never been arrogant.


    But after the matchmaking incident, Minna¡¯s mood had soured, and she had avoided any questions about what had transpired. For months, Kash had believed his daughter was happily dating Ethan. He had genuinely thought she¡¯d found an outstanding boyfriend.


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 Chapter 858

    ?Chapter 858:


    That illusion was shattered when Minna returned home in tears, revealing that Ethan had never been interested in her. Worse still, Elsa had known he was already dating someone else but had still pushed Minna toward him.


    He couldn¡¯t believe it.


    His anger erupted when he discovered what Elsa had done. He confronted her, but Elsa insisted that Minna was the only suitable daughter-inw she wanted, showering her with exaggerated praise.


    Despite all the drama, both Kash and Julissa still liked Ethan. He was the world¡¯s richest man, and even if he didn¡¯t love Minna, her marrying him would guarantee a life of luxury. That hope made them easy prey for Elsa¡¯s n to have Kenny pose as Ethan, trying to pressure Ethan into epting Minna.


    But Kash had never imagined that Ethan would t-out refuse to follow his mother¡¯s ns. Elsa had painted a different picture for him before, insisting that Ethan had always listened to her wishes.


    When the truth emerged and Kenny had to publicly announce his rtionship with Minna, Kash finally understood the real situation. He couldn¡¯t help but me himself for being so naive, thinking he could climb the socialdder by clinging to the Mitchell family.


    ¡°You¡¯ve crossed the line, Ethan!¡± Kash snapped, rising to his feet. ¡°You already had a girlfriend, yet you let your mother y matchmaker. Don¡¯t think your wealth gives you a free pass. What you did is uneptable.¡±


    Ethan remainedposed. ¡°Mr. Davies, who told you I asked my mother to do that?¡±


    Kash exchanged a quick nce with his wife, remembering that it had been his wife who arranged everything with Elsa.


    Julissa replied, ¡°Your mother said it herself. She said you remembered Minna from childhood and could not forget her ever since, so you asked her to arrange it.¡±


    A faint smile appeared on Ethan¡¯s face. ¡°Mrs. Davies, you and my mother go way back. You must know something about my family dynamics, right?¡±


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    Julissa gave a small nod. Years of working alongside Elsa meant she¡¯d heard endless stories about the Mitchell family.


    ¡°Even so, that doesn¡¯t excuse your being with two women. You were seeing Miss Harper but still agreed to dates with Minna. Just because you¡¯re wealthy doesn¡¯t mean you can y with people¡¯s feelings.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not what happened.¡± Ethan¡¯s patience was wearing thin. He couldn¡¯t understand how Julissa could be so easily fooled by Elsa. ¡°Since you know so much about our family, you should realize that Kenny has always been the obedient one, following every expectation our parents set, whether in school or his career. I¡¯m nothing like my brother. I¡¯ve always pushed back against the path my parents tried to force things on me,¡± Ethan continued. ¡°My mother had a way of controlling everything, and whenever my father or I stood our ground, she¡¯d get so angry that she couldn¡¯t even eat or sleep. I¡¯m sure she¡¯s vented to you about that before?¡±


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 Chapter 859

    ?Chapter 859:


    Julissa gave a silent nod, finally beginning to understand the situation.


    Ethan went on, ¡°I¡¯ve never followed the ns my parents made for me, not as a kid, and not now. Mrs. Davies, you were deceived by my mother the entire time. With everything spiraling out of control, I¡¯m here today to apologize for the trouble she¡¯s caused. But you can¡¯t me me for this. If anything, I¡¯ve been dragged into this mess unwillingly, just as much as anyone else.¡±


    He then reached into his jacket and handed over a check. ¡°Mr. and Mrs. Davies, I hope you¡¯ll ept this aspensation for everything you and your family have gone through. I truly am sorry.¡±


    Minna stared at the check, not immediately registering the full amount, but she knew Ethan would be generous. After everything she had been through, epting hispensation felt justified. She took the check and looked at the amount. Her eyes widened at the string of zeros after the number three.


    Three hundred million.


    That was truly a lot.


    Minna¡¯s eyes gleamed as she stared at the check, still reveling in the moment. But in the blink of an eye, the check vanished from her grasp. Kash had snatched it away, and without even ncing at it, he ripped it into pieces.


    Minna clenched her fist, filled with regret.


    ¡°Dad!¡± she cried out, her voice trembling. She shot him a furious re, unable to believe what he had just done.


    She felt a deep pang of regret for letting three hundred million slip through her fingers.


    That was more money than their entire family could ever hope to earn in a lifetime. And just like that, it was gone.


    ¡°They need to offer a proper apology. Money won¡¯t fix this!¡± Kash said, his eyes burning with anger.


    With a sharp flick of his wrist, he hurled the torn remains of the check at Ethan.


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    ¡°A proper apology?¡± Ethan repeated. ¡°Mr. Davies, did you know Kenny was seeing someone before?¡±


    ¡°Of course not!¡± Kash replied without hesitation.


    If Rosanna hadn¡¯t made a scene today, he wouldn¡¯t have known about Kenny¡¯s rtionship with her.


    Everyone knew Rosanna. She stood out not only for being one of the very few female pilots in the elite military aviation unit, but also for being beautiful, sharp, and from a well-off family. Her flying skills were top-tier.


    Julissa shook her head, seething. In her eyes, Ethan looked at them like they were just another family chasing status and money, desperate to marry their daughter off to someone from the Mitchells for personal gain.


    Being viewed this way made her furious.


    Now, knowing Elsa had been lying to her from the start only made it worse. To her, the entire Mitchell family was bad. No matter how much money Ethan offered topensate her family, it couldn¡¯t quell her anger.


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 Chapter 860

    ?Chapter 860:


    Rosanna shot daggers at Ethan. ¡°None of us is in the military aviation unit. How would we possibly know Kenny already had a girlfriend? If we did, do you really think we¡¯d let our daughter get close to Kenny? Ethan, you¡¯re insulting us. This is¡­¡±


    ¡°Your family¡¯s fault, not ours! If your mother hadn¡¯t deceived Minna, would she be in this mess now? At the engagement party, Kenny ran off with someone else. Do you know how humiliating that is? We can¡¯t even show our faces in public anymore. This is beyond shameful. You need to make this right; we won¡¯t let this slide easily!¡±


    Ethan understood that they were primarily concerned with preserving their dignity.


    He was aware of how poorly his parents had handled things. But his parents also cared deeply about their own dignity. They didn¡¯t want toe here and apologize.


    Ethan replied, ¡°Mr. Davies, I understand that. What happened today was my family¡¯s fault. I¡¯m here to offer my apology on behalf of my parents. I will alsopensate you for the emotional distress my family has caused you.¡±


    Kash scoffed and waved him off. ¡°We don¡¯t want your money. What we want is a public apology from your whole family. And Kenny¡­ He needs to kneel before Minna and admit his mistake.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve already apologized,¡± Ethan said, his tone calm but resolute. ¡°A public apology isn¡¯t going to happen. Everyone at the engagement banquet saw what happened. They know who¡¯s at fault. My parents will carry the weight of their actions, whether you see it or not.¡± He then turned to Minna and continued, ¡°Miss Davies, I¡¯ll have thepensation transferred to your ount now.¡± Having dealt with them before, Ethan knew Minna¡¯s parents might raise a fuss, but Minna wouldn¡¯t refuse the money.


    As expected, Minna did not object.


    Right in front of the Davies family, Ethan asked Neville to immediately transfer three hundred million dors from his personal ount to Minna.


    Neville stepped forward and politely asked for Minna¡¯s bank details. Without hesitation, Minnaplied and added, ¡°I can¡¯t keep working at the same airline as Kenny now. I want a new job. The pay must be the same or better.¡±


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    ¡°Consider it done,¡± Ethan answered without missing a beat. For him, it was an easy request.


    As he stepped out of the hospital, Ethan pulled out his phone and made a call to Elsa. In a cold tone, he stated, ¡°The Davies family situation has been resolved. From now on, stay out of Kenny¡¯s and my personal matters. Just focus on your recovery.¡±


    Elsa ended the call in frustration. The next second, she hurled the phone onto the hospital bed. ¡°Who do they think I¡¯m doing this for? None of them appreciates my efforts! And now they tell me to stay out of their affairs? That is so rude!¡±


    Ethan had been trying to reach Kenny, but his phone was off, and he had disappeared without a trace.


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 Chapter 861

    ?Chapter 861:


    Across the room, Emmett¡¯s patience finally snapped. ¡°Enough! If it weren¡¯t for you, none of this would have happened. You¡¯ve brought shame to the Mitchell family!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re ming me for this?¡± Elsa shot back, her voice rising. ¡°Wasn¡¯t it your perfect son who ran off and humiliated our family?¡± She clutched the nket on herp, her face tightening. All these days, she¡¯d been pushing herself to the limit, thinking she was securing Kenny¡¯s future.


    Was that wrong? Why was she being med now?


    ¡°Rosanna, what do you think?¡± Kenny asked, gesturing toward the polished exterior of the home. ¡°It¡¯s a little over 2,000 square feet.¡±


    Without letting go of Kenny¡¯s hand, Rosanna stepped through the doorway with him. Every inch of the house radiated careful thought and modern taste. The space was wide and open, with sunlight flowing in effortlessly from both ends. Not only was it well-lit, but it also struck a perfect bnce between style and practicality.


    Her eyes trailed over the sleek furniture. Every piece seemed like it belonged in a showroom. Though Rosanna¡¯s family might not afford such branded furniture, she recognized some international brands. The sofa looked like it was made for sinking into¡ªunbelievably soft.


    ¡°Did you really buy this with your paycheck? A couch like this has to be worth over a million. There¡¯s no way you have that much money,¡± she said, already guessing who had gifted Kenny this house, her eyes brightly fixed on him.


    Kenny didn¡¯t bother dodging the truth. ¡°It was a gift. My brother gave it to me as an engagement present.¡± His voice dropped. ¡°I haven¡¯t told anyone else. Not Minna. Not my parents. They think I¡¯ll be moving into the house they arranged for me. But I wanted this house to be our ce.¡±


    Rosanna narrowed her eyes, her voice sharp with disbelief. ¡°Don¡¯t deceive me. If you really wanted this life with me, then why did you let your family push you into that engagement? If I hadn¡¯t dragged you away today, you¡¯d probably be picking out wedding rings with Minna right now. Do you really think I¡¯ll believe you¡¯ve always wanted to live here with me?¡±


    She pulled him down onto the couch beside her. ¡°The lucky thing is that no one can find us here.¡±


    Kenny leaned back on the couch, slipping his arm behind her shoulders. He looked at her intently. ¡°Even though it looks like I¡¯m getting engaged to Minna, I was hoping you¡¯de to save me. Otherwise, why would I tell you about the engagement? I even told you the time and location.¡±


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    Rosanna let out a long sigh and gave him a dramatic eye roll before pinching his nose. ¡°You were manipting me,¡± she muttered, her voiceced with mock anger. ¡°You knew I wouldn¡¯t let it happen. You nned the whole thing!¡±


    Then, she pounced on him with yful frustration, halfughing as she hit him. ¡°You little schemer!¡±


    Kenny let her hit him,ughing as she did.


    Without warning, he pulled her into a tight hug. ¡°So? Do you like the house? Let¡¯s get married and make this our home.¡±


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 Chapter 862

    ?Chapter 862:


    Rosanna¡¯s smile faded into something softer. ¡°I¡¯d marry you,¡± she said. ¡°But we still have to face your parents. I¡¯m not expecting miracles. I just want them to agree to our marriage.¡±


    Kenny gave a bitter chuckle. ¡°My mom doesn¡¯t bend. Once she decides something, she won¡¯t change her mind. If we wait around for her approval, we¡¯ll never get married. Let¡¯s just get married in secret first. Once it¡¯s done, there will be nothing she can do.¡±


    Rosanna considered it for a moment, then nodded. ¡°If she¡¯s forcing you into marrying someone you don¡¯t love, then I think she¡¯s not exactly reasonable.¡±


    Kenny said, ¡°I should have been like my brother. When I was young, I wanted to do what I loved, just like him. But seeing him get scolded and punished for being disobedient, I got scared.¡±


    Even now, Kenny held a strange admiration for Ethan. Sure, they butted heads a lot, especially over how often Ethan shed with their mother, but Kenny couldn¡¯t deny that he respected his brother¡¯s courage.


    Rosanna jabbed a finger against his chest. ¡°That stops now. From here on out, you make your own choices. Don¡¯t let your mom control every move you make, alright?¡±


    ¡°Okay, I promise!¡± Kenny said quickly, before tugging her by the hand to show her more of the house.


    ¡°This ce is huge. Your brother really went all out.¡± As they walked through the spacious rooms, Rosanna¡¯s eyes sparkled.


    A chuckle slipped from Kenny¡¯s mouth. ¡°He¡¯s got houses everywhere. This one¡¯s just average to him. He recently bought another ce in the same neighborhood as Miss Harper.¡±


    Shaking her head in awe, Rosanna let out a sigh. ¡°Must be nice to be rich, throwing around gifts like this. The location of this ce alone is top-tier, not to mention the size. At the current market value, this ce would go for what, ten million? Your brother must really care about you. And clearly, he¡¯s head over heels for his girlfriend, moving to her neighborhood just to be close to her.¡±


    Even though Ethan often disobeyed their parents, Kenny had to admit¡ªEthan treated the family well. Despite everything he had done, Ethan still handed him a house as an engagement gift.


    ncing at his phone, Kenny hesitated. He had no idea who was dealing with the mess he had created today.


    Knowing his parents well, he could already imagine their rage. Pride ran deep in their bloodline, and he wasn¡¯t sure if they would apologize to the Davies family.


    At that moment, Rosanna noticed Kenny¡¯s somber expression. She gave him a serious look and asked, ¡°Hey¡­ What¡¯s going on? Are you having second thoughts about running off with me?¡±


    In truth, she already knew the answer. She had spent enough time with Kenny to understand how his mind worked. Even though he had chosen her today, she knew he was probably already feeling the weight of guilt and thinking he had let his parents down.


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 Chapter 863

    ?Chapter 863:


    Kenny forced a smile. ¡°No. I don¡¯t regret it.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll handle the rest together,¡± Rosanna said softly. ¡°Once your parents are less angry, we¡¯ll go back and apologize. I won¡¯t let you face that storm alone.¡±


    Kenny¡¯s thumb hovered over his phone screen, but he couldn¡¯t bring himself to turn it on. He feared that the flood of calls would make him change his mind.


    As night fell, Brenna arrived home. The Harper family¡¯s dining table was already set, filled with a spread of dishes.


    Giselle, in high spirits, waved Brenna over. ¡°You must be starving. Come eat, these are all your favorites.¡±


    Brenna passed her bag to Julia, washed her hands, and sat down. Surveying the table, she noticed the mouthwatering array of food. ¡°Why¡¯s dinner sovish tonight?¡± she asked.


    Ernst and Dalton, already seated, set their phones aside and exchanged amused nces.


    Brenna¡¯s curiosity grew. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±


    Giselle¡¯s mood brightened further. She smiled at Brenna and replied, ¡°I¡¯m just in a great mood today.¡±


    Catching Shepard¡¯s warm smile, Brenna could tell he was equally cheerful.


    Ernst spoke up. ¡°Didn¡¯t the Mitchells make a spectacle of themselves today? Mom¡¯s been fed up with themtely, and now that they¡¯re in a mess, she¡¯s happy.¡±


    Brenna turned to Giselle. ¡°You heard about it, too, Mom?¡±


    Giselle beamed. ¡°Oh, yes. A coworker told me today; her husband is stationed at the military base and was at the Mitchells¡¯ engagement party. He told her everything. It was quite the scene. I always knew that with Elsa¡¯s personality, her family was bound to get into trouble eventually. Mark my words, this is just the start. Bigger problems areing.¡±


    Brenna shared a look with Ernst, who, despite his friendship with Ethan, stayed silent instead of defending the Mitchells.


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    Brenna said, ¡°You¡¯re right, Mom. Ethan¡¯s mother is way too overbearing. Kenny¡¯s no match for her, and she¡¯ll probably try to drive a wedge between him and that pilot girlfriend of his soon.¡±


    Ernst dug into his meal. ¡°I¡¯m with you on that. Kenny and Ethan are like night and day. Kenny¡¯s too soft. I¡¯m curious how he¡¯ll face his mom this time. Honestly, Brenna, I¡¯m worried about you. Ethan¡¯s mom already dislikes you, and when you marry him, you¡¯re bound to sh with her.¡±


    Brenna arched an eyebrow. ¡°Ethan¡¯s already made it clear¡ªonce we¡¯re married, we¡¯ll keep his mom at arm¡¯s length, like a distant rtive. I won¡¯t have to deal with her.¡±


    Giselle scoffed. ¡°Don¡¯t get ahead of yourself. His mother isn¡¯t someone you can just brush off. Your n might fall apart. Brenna, you need a backup n in case things don¡¯t work out with Ethan. If you want to settle down, I can introduce you to someone from a more harmonious family. The Mitchells may have status, but that doesn¡¯t matter to us.¡±


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 Chapter 864

    ?Chapter 864:


    Shepard nodded in agreement. ¡°Your mother¡¯s got a point. We need to test Ethan for a while longer. Brenna, don¡¯t do anything foolish.¡± He looked at her intently as he spoke.


    Brenna caught his meaning instantly¡ªher father was warning her not to rush into anything with Ethan.


    ¡°Dad, I understand,¡± she assured him.


    Shepard added, ¡°Oh, and your uncle Ableson was really impressed with the prosthetic design you created. Jillian dropped off a gift for you today; it¡¯s in your room.¡±


    ¡°Oh, there¡¯s no need for that,¡± Brenna replied casually. ¡°We¡¯re family, and this is my expertise. Helping my uncle out is just what I should do.¡±


    ¡°Just ept the gift,¡± Giselle said, adding a piece of fish to Brenna¡¯s te. ¡°Don¡¯t ignore your father¡¯s advice. The Mitchells might seem morous, but they¡¯re not a good family.¡±


    Before she could finish speaking, Ethan walked in, saying, ¡°Mr. and Mrs. Harper, my family didn¡¯t cook tonight, so I¡¯m here to join you for dinner.¡±


    Giselle nced at her family, unsure if Ethan had overheard her earlier remarks. She responded coolly, ¡°Take a seat.¡±


    Shepard remained unbothered. ¡°Perfect timing. My mother is in a great mood and had the kitchen whip up extra food. Help yourself.¡±


    ¡°Thanks,¡± Ethan said, epting the utensils from Julia and beginning to eat.


    Shepard casually asked, ¡°Everything sorted with today¡¯s mess?¡±


    Ethan met Shepard¡¯s gaze and immediately understood what he was referring to. ¡°The Davies family has been cated. I handled the matter myself.¡±


    Shepard gave an approving nod. Despite Ethan¡¯s tense family ties, he didn¡¯t shirk responsibility when trouble struck. The young man was dependable, even though he had an overbearing mother.


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    Giselle, barely concealing her amusement, was eager to see how Ethan would handle her as a potential mother-inw. She said, ¡°Today¡¯s fiasco came out of nowhere and caused quite the uproar. All of high society is buzzing about it.¡±


    Ethan nodded, offering Giselle a faint, unruffled smile despite her pointed tone. With everyone gossiping about the drama, herments were hardly surprising.


    Ethan replied, ¡°True, it¡¯s not a good look. People are curious about how it will y out and whether my family will apologize to the Davies family. I¡¯ve already apologized and offered thempensation for the distress.¡±


    Giselle didn¡¯t hold back. ¡°But apologies and money won¡¯t cut it. The Davies family was humiliated in public. Do you really think they will just ept your gesture? Their daughter was disgraced by your family, Ethan. I doubt they¡¯ll let this slide easily.¡±


    Ethan didn¡¯t deny it. Giselle¡¯s words may have been sharp, but they weren¡¯t wrong. Even after he hadpensated Minna, her family could continue to stir things up. But there was nothing he could do about that.


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 Chapter 865

    ?Chapter 865:


    Given Minna¡¯s background, this wasn¡¯t surprising. With both parents having served in the military, pride ran deep in their household. They were unlikely to let the humiliating incident slide easily.


    ¡°What do you suggest I do, Mrs. Harper?¡± Ethan asked.


    A small smile yed on Giselle¡¯s lips as she casually took a bite of her food, a spark of amusement in her gaze. ¡°Your family never truly showed remorse. The people responsible didn¡¯t apologize. No one with dignity would just ept your money and let the matter go.¡± That point hit home. Ethan believed she was right.


    Just then, his phone buzzed. ncing at the notification, he saw a new alert. Three hundred million dors had just been wired back into his ount.


    A quiet scowl tugged at his face.


    He was no stranger to transactions like this. But when he checked it, realization dawned. The money he had given Minna had been returned. ¡°You are right. The Davies family just sent the money I gave them back,¡± Ethan said to Giselle.


    Giselle replied, ¡°Exactly what I expected. Money can¡¯t fix what pride sees as unforgivable. Until the ones who caused the Davies family pain step up and apologize, this won¡¯t end. I think they won¡¯t ept money aspensation.¡±


    Shepard, who had spent most of the meal silent, finally twirled his fork and spoke up. ¡°That¡¯s not always true. There¡¯s a good chance they¡¯ll ept the money. Ethan¡¯s offer was at least a hundred million¡ªmore than their family could ever dream of earning. But I think they¡¯ll only ept it after a heartfelt apology from Kenny and Elsa.¡±


    While the conversation grew more serious, Ethan weighed their words. ¡°But what if my mom refuses to apologize? Her pride means everything to her. When I crossed her, she¡¯d give me the silent treatment for days. When she really lost her temper, she¡¯d even hit me. I doubt I can persuade her to go and apologize to the Davies family.¡±


    Giselle disliked Ethan only because of Elsa; she was also afraid that Elsa would mistreat Brenna if she married Ethan.


    ¡°It¡¯s not your responsibility to fix this mess,¡± Giselle said, her tone direct. ¡°Let Elsa face what¡¯sing. She and Kenny caused this, and they should be the ones dealing with it.¡±


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    Shepard didn¡¯t say anything, clearly agreeing with Giselle.


    A moment passed before Ethan gave a slow nod. ¡°We¡¯ll wait and see what the Davies family does next. Maybe that¡¯ll make my mother realize her mistake.¡±


    Seeing Ethan so reasonable, Giselle felt a flicker of approval. Ethan wasn¡¯t blind to Elsa¡¯s faults. Unlike his mother, who bulldozed over others and never admitted her mistakes, he kept a level head. That gave her hope for Brenna¡¯s future with him.


    Ethan added, ¡°Thank you for the advice. You¡¯re right; whoever messes up should own up to it.¡±


    Smiling, Brenna picked out a tender piece of fish and set it on his te. ¡°Here, eat this. It¡¯s good for you.¡±


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 Chapter 866

    ?Chapter 866:


    Without hesitation, Ethan ate it.


    Setting his own fork aside, he began to carefully peel shrimp for Brenna, offering them to her one at a time.


    Brenna epted each piece, appreciating the gesture.


    Midway through the meal, Ethan¡¯s phone rang. Elsa¡¯s name shed across the screen.


    Ignoring the call, Ethan continued tending to Brenna, letting the phone ring itself silent while he worked on the shrimp.


    Barely five minutes passed before Elsa called again. This time, Ethan quietly ced thest shrimp on Brenna¡¯s te, headed to the sink to clean his hands, and then moved to the living room to take the call.


    ¡°Hello, Mom,¡± Ethan said in a calm voice.


    Elsa was extremely anxious when she discovered viral videos about today¡¯s events while scrolling through social media after dinner. Someone had posted the incident online, and it was now spreading rapidly across all major social tforms. Not only did the upper ss know about the incident, but ordinary people were also aware of it. Everyone was unanimously condemning the Mitchell family for their shameless behavior.


    Elsa didn¡¯t know what to do now.


    ¡°I thought you told me the Davies family¡¯s situation was resolved! But just now, Minna called me to demand exnations. And this whole mess is blowing up online. Why haven¡¯t you fixed it yet?¡± Elsa¡¯s voice was clearly anxious, tinged with a hint of anger. ¡°Didn¡¯t the Davies family take your money? How dare they still post about it?¡±


    ¡°The incident on the inte? How could they just turn their back on their word like that? Are they expecting both an apology and the money? How could they do that?¡±


    Ethan waited patiently for her tirade to end before speaking. ¡°They already returned the money I gave them. Money isn¡¯t what they want. If you and Kenny offered a real apology or made a public statement admitting you¡¯re wrong, maybe things would settle down. The Davies family isn¡¯t being unreasonable.¡±


    ¡°¡®Now I¡¯m the one who should apologize?¡± Elsa¡¯s irritation boiled over, her voice rising as she fired off herints to Ethan on the phone. ¡°What did I do wrong? Are you telling me this is my fault?¡±


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    Not ready to let it go, she continued, frustration shaping every word.


    ¡°Listen to me. I wanted Minna to join our family as my daughter-inw. You weren¡¯t fond of her, so I figured your brother might be a better match and told her that. Minna took her time and made her own choice. I never forced her hand! So how could her family me me for everything now? Do you think she¡¯s a good person? She¡¯s been eyeing our family¡¯s wealth from the start. While she was dating your brother, I showered her with all kinds of expensive gifts.¡±


    Elsa was furious. ¡°She didn¡¯t mind epting those gifts at all. Now that my son has run off with someone else, she¡¯s decided that everything is my fault? She¡¯s the one who couldn¡¯t keep your brother interested! Why do I have to apologize now? No way! I couldn¡¯t care less about what Minna¡¯s family thinks. I refuse to apologize to them! Ethan, you handle this. I refuse to believe they can outmaneuver us.¡±


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 Chapter 867

    ?Chapter 867:


    Choosing not to argue, Ethan remained silent. There was no changing Elsa¡¯s mind, so he ended the call and went back to his meal.


    Elsa did not try to reach him again.


    The weekend rolled in, and Brenna decided to invite Lilith and Ellie for a shopping trip.


    At ten o¡¯clock, Brenna swung by to pick up Ellie and Patrick first, then headed off to get Lilith.


    Patrick¡¯s excitement bubbled over as he met Lilith for the first time. Heunched into a lively monologue about his new favorite lollipop, barely pausing for breath as the car moved along.


    ¡°You won¡¯t believe this, Brenna. We finally have a chef at our house! Everything tastes amazing now. I look forward to every meal. We even have two nannies. If my mom decides to sleep in and skips taking me to school, the nannies handle it for her.¡±


    While speaking, Patrick dug around in his bag until he fished out two fried chicken drumsticks. He handed one to Brenna and one to Lilith.


    ¡°These are from our chef¡ªstill warm and super tasty. You¡¯ve got to try them!¡±


    Hunger quickly taking over, Lilith gratefully epted the drumstick. ¡°Thanks, Patrick. I¡¯m starving.¡±


    Next, Patrick handed her a bottle of yogurt. ¡°Try this one, too, Lilith.¡±


    Patrick offered another bottle to Brenna, but she declined politely since she was driving.


    By noon, the group was tired from shopping and decided to eat at a restaurant. They chose an elegant spot¡ªsoftly lit and peaceful, where the air was filled with pleasant conversation rather than the noise of a crowded venue.


    As soon as he spotted a vacant table for four, Patrick hurried over. He copsed into a chair. ¡°I¡¯m worn out! Shopping with girls drains more energy from me than an entire school day.¡±


    Brenna and Lilith took seats across from him, and Ellie signaled for a waiter, ready to ce their order.


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    With a dramatic sigh, Lilith dropped her head back. ¡°Can you believe it? We¡¯ve barely shopped for an hour, and my ount is already down over a million. Do you think your brother will get angry with me when he gets the transaction alert?¡±


    Anxiety showed in her expression as she added, ¡°The price tags are out of this world! A single wool coat costs a hundred and seventy thousand! I swear, in all the years I¡¯ve been alive, I haven¡¯t worn clothes as pricey as this one coat.¡±


    Brenna tried to lighten the mood. ¡°Just rx. Hasn¡¯t my brother always nagged you for being too careful with money? Treat yourself for once; maybe he¡¯ll stopining.¡±


    Ellie ced an order for two dishes and offered the menu to Lilith. ¡°Go ahead and get whatever catches your eye. Brenna¡¯s practically swimming in moneytely. She¡¯s paying for the meal.¡± Lilithughed after hearing that.


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 Chapter 868

    ?Chapter 868:


    She flipped through the menu, her expression turning to shock. The lowest-priced dish, a te of spaghetti, cost a thousand dors. Everything else was in the thousands, some even more.


    ¡°Are they serious? For a thousand dors, I could buy a lot of things. The spaghetti here is too expensive. Oh, this dish looks tasty, but it¡¯s eighteen thousand a te. This one¡¯s good too, but it¡¯s also very expensive.¡±


    After flipping through every page, Lilith just couldn¡¯t bring herself to make a decision. The luxury felt excessive, so she passed the menu over to Brenna, allowing her to order for her.


    Brenna chose exactly what Lilith had pointed out earlier.


    Once they ced their order, Brenna¡¯s attention was drawn to a mysterious figure sitting in the corner. The woman, dressed entirely in ck and hiding beneath a wide-brimmed hat, was eating spaghetti.


    ¡°That¡¯s Minna, isn¡¯t it?¡± Brenna murmured. Both Lilith and Ellie turned to look at the woman.


    Recognition shed across Lilith¡¯s face. ¡°She¡¯s all anyone in Shirie is talking about these days. After all that drama, she still dares to go out?¡± Patrick spoke up. ¡°It looks like she¡¯s waiting for someone.¡±


    Just then, several people entered the restaurant. They were also disguised, with one wearing a navy blue hooded woolen coat, a hat, a mask, and sunsses. While most people wouldn¡¯t have recognized the individual, Brenna instantly knew who it was. It was Elsa. With a sideways nce, Elsa spotted Brenna but chose to pretend she hadn¡¯t seen her, assuming Brenna wouldn¡¯t recognize her. Elsa walked past Brenna¡¯s table and slid into the seat across from Minna.


    ¡°Take a look in that corner,¡± Lilith said, her eyes narrowing as she noticed something unusual at the edge of the restaurant. Without needing to gesture, she silently directed Brenna¡¯s and Patrick¡¯s attention. Both followed her gaze, quickly spotting a couple in the dimly lit area¡ªMinna¡¯s parents, who seemed to be staring directly back at them.


    A sly grin tugged at Lilith¡¯s lips as she leaned toward Brenna. ¡°This is getting good,¡± she whispered, a hint of gossip in her tone.


    ¡°Minna, why did you choose this ce? You could¡¯ve picked somewhere with more privacy.¡± Hidden behind a hat, dark sses, and a face mask, Elsa hade prepared to keep her identity under wraps. Public attention was thest thing she wanted now.


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    The moment Elsa saw Minna, anger surged within her. She didn¡¯t care about the puffiness beneath Minna¡¯s eyes¡ªremnants of a night spent crying¡ªnor did she feel even the slightest bit of guilt.


    Disgust had long reced any lingering respect Minna had once had for Elsa. ¡°Scared for people to see your true colors?¡± Minna said, her tone frosty.


    She had nned this with her parents. They had deliberately chosen a restaurant with open seating. Anything private would have allowed Elsa to manipte the situation, buying their silence with money. They wanted everyone to see Elsa¡¯s true character.


    ¡°That¡¯s no way to speak to your elders. Have you forgotten everything you were taught about respect? Minna, you weren¡¯t always this way. There was a time when you treated me with respect.¡± Disappointment colored Elsa¡¯s expression as she looked at Minna.


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 Chapter 869

    ?Chapter 869:


    Minna let out a huff, her voice ringing out louder. ¡°You¡¯re a liar and a selfish fraud! Everything you do revolves around your reputation, and you make everyone bend to your ego. I want a public apology from you!¡±


    Lifting her phone, she pointed the camera at Elsa. ¡°This is all being recorded. Admit what you did. Tell everyone you humiliated my whole family on purpose!¡±


    Fury shed across Elsa¡¯s face as she swatted the phone from Minna¡¯s hand. ¡°What is this? You think you can force me to apologize with a camera?¡±


    Despite her attempt to keep her voice low, the entire restaurant had fallen silent, with every head turned their way. At that moment, Kash and Julissa walked over.


    With a sharp re, Julissa reached over and yanked off Elsa¡¯s sunsses and mask. ¡°Hiding behind these to protect your reputation? If saving face mattered to you so much, why did you do all those things in the first ce?¡±


    Their heated phone call the night before had left Julissa resolute. She was determined to confront Elsa, regardless of the consequences. She didn¡¯t fear the Mitchell family¡¯s retaliation. If they tried to threaten her, she was ready to expose their true colors to the world.


    ¡°That¡¯s Elsa, the famous singer!¡±


    Whispers spread almost immediately as diners recognized Elsa. The sight of such a well-known artist caught in a public shouting match left the crowd stunned.


    From a distance, Brenna stayed quiet, pulling out her phone to video call Ethan, letting him witness the drama unfold.


    Still furious, Elsa managed to keep her tone controlled, refusing to let her anger show in public. ¡°What do you think you¡¯re doing?¡±


    Icy resolve colored Julissa¡¯s voice as she adjusted the hidden camera on her cor. ¡°You want to know what we¡¯re doing? Maybe the real question is what you and your eldest son did. You introduced my daughter to your second son, but he wasn¡¯t interested in her. You wanted to force him to ept her, so you had your eldest son impersonate him to deceive my daughter. All of this just to break up your second son and his girlfriend. Your actions are despicable!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s absurd! You¡¯re talking nonsense!¡± Elsa¡¯s denial came swiftly and sharply. Admitting to such a scandal would ruin her reputation. ¡°I¡¯ve done nothing wrong! Your daughter wanted to marry into money. When Ethan turned her down, she went after Kenny instead. She is shameless!¡±


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    Deep down, Elsa knew a confession would destroy her, but she refused to admit anything. She believed that once Ethan sent someone to intimidate the Davies family, this matter would be over. Regret nagged at her. She shouldn¡¯t havee here today. The so-called reconciliation was nothing more than a trapid by the Davies family.


    Raging inside, Elsa failed to notice the hidden camera on Julissa.


    ¡°Still lying?¡± Julissa¡¯s lip curled in disgust. ¡°I can¡¯t believe I ever thought you were a kind person. You used my daughter to control your second son¡¯s life. Even when he had someone he loved, you meddled and set up blind dates for him. What kind of mother does that to her son?¡±


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 Chapter 870

    ?Chapter 870:


    From her seat, Brenna watched the scene quietly. But in the next moment, Julissa caught her gaze and pulled her into the spotlight.


    Looking directly at Brenna, Julissa asked, ¡°Miss Harper, you¡¯re Ethan¡¯s girlfriend, aren¡¯t you? Please, tell everyone¡ªdid Elsa try to break you and Ethan up?¡±


    A wave of dread washed over Elsa. She had caused trouble for Brenna many times before. Would Brenna betray her now, siding with Julissa in front of everyone?


    Brenna¡¯s phone was left on the table.


    Lilith immediately sensed the shift in the atmosphere. Grabbing Brenna¡¯s phone, she didn¡¯t hesitate to speak to Ethan, who was still on the other end of the line. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, you need to get here now. Things are getting out of hand, and your girlfriend has been dragged into this mess.¡±


    Ethan quickly responded, ¡°Text me the address. I¡¯ll be there soon.¡±


    Without wasting any time, Lilith sent him the location.


    Ethan grabbed Neville on the way out. Inside the elevator, he called Kenny. This time, Kenny actually answered the call.


    After exining the situation, Ethan said, ¡°It¡¯s time for you to face the consequences of your actions. You caused this mess, so you need to deal with it. Don¡¯t expect Mom or me to clean it up for you.¡±


    Kenny snapped back in protest, ¡°Why are you ming me for everything? I didn¡¯t do anything! Mom¡¯s the one who started this whole thing. I¡¯m not going there.¡±


    Before Ethan could respond, Kenny ended the call.


    Ethan soon sent him a voice message: ¡°If you don¡¯t show up, I¡¯ll pin all the me on you.¡±


    Kenny nearly hurled his phone across the room after hearing the message. His rage boiled over as he called Ethan back, his teeth clenched. ¡°Fine. Send me the address.¡±


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    Back at the restaurant, tension filled the air as Julissa urged Brenna to speak. ¡°Miss Harper, speak up! Tell everyone how Elsa forced you to break up with Ethan and how she schemed to nt my daughter in the Mitchell Group to get close to him.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s gaze was razor-sharp as she looked at Brenna, her expression threatening. If Brenna dared to expose her, Elsa would make sure Ethan never married her.


    ¡°Miss Harper,¡± Elsa said coldly, ¡°you¡¯ll want to keep your story straight.¡± It was clearly a threat.


    Brenna could hardly stomach Elsa¡¯s tone. It wasn¡¯t just the arrogance; it was the audacity of someone who could bully others without remorse and then turn around to smear those she had wronged.


    Brenna wouldn¡¯t let Elsa get her way.


    ¡°I did run into Mrs. Mitchell and Miss Davies that day in Ethan¡¯s office,¡± Brenna said, her voiceposed. ¡°But I left right after. What Mrs. Mitchell told Ethan, I don¡¯t know. What I do know is that not long after, Miss Davies started working at the Mitchell Group, in the secretarial department.¡±


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 Chapter 871

    ?Chapter 871:


    ¡°That¡¯s a lie!¡± Elsa shouted, her voice cracking with fury.


    Unshaken, Brenna met her rage with a calm expression. ¡°I¡¯m not making anything up. I¡¯m just stating what happened. You were indeed the one who let Miss Davies work at the Mitchell Group. Plenty of people at thepany saw Miss Davies there.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s face turned pale. Her eyes locked on Brenna with venomous heat. ¡°You should watch your mouth. You¡¯re dating my son. Do you really not know what you should say now?¡±


    A humorlessugh escaped Brenna¡¯s lips. So now, Elsa was threatening her directly. That was really out of line. If she were the type to fold because of a threat, she would¡¯ve walked away from Ethan long ago.


    Julissa looked at Brenna with quiet admiration. In her eyes, Brenna wasn¡¯t just sharp andposed¡ªshe had integrity. She stood firm under pressure, unwilling to lie.


    ¡°Elsa, there¡¯s no point in lying anymore,¡± Julissa said. ¡°You heard her¡ªshe already confirmed it. You did pressure your second son into epting my daughter. There¡¯s no use denying that. Since that is clear, let¡¯s move to the next matter.¡±


    After a pause, she continued, ¡°Your second son has made it perfectly clear. He has no interest in my daughter, and he¡¯s not willing to break up with his girlfriend. But instead of respecting that, you dragged your first son into your schemes. You had him wear an engagement ring and go to Shirie University to stir up trouble. You made him hold my daughter¡¯s hand and pretend to be your second son to deceive Miss Harper. But Miss Harper wasn¡¯t intimidated by your threats, and she recognized immediately who the man with the ring was.¡±


    Julissa¡¯s voice rose with each word, fueled by fury and the weight of truth. ¡°This mess didn¡¯t stay private; it blew up online, and even the military got wind of it. They nearly expelled Kenny because of it. You didn¡¯t try to fix it. No, you doubled down and came up with something even more absurd. You wanted your first son to get engaged to my daughter. And after all that, you still can¡¯t admit you were wrong? Do you really think you can just mistreat my daughter like that?¡±


    Elsa¡¯s face turned pale.


    Elsa¡¯s face flushed crimson, a wave of heat rushing to her head. Her chest tightened as rage boiled over. She shot Julissa a deadly re, seething at being called out in public.


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    ¡°Lies! You¡¯re making all this up!¡± Elsa yelled, her voice shaking with fury and panic.


    Julissa pulled out her phone calmly. With a single tap, a video began to y.


    The footage showed Kenny and Minna holding hands at Shirie University.


    With that evidence ying in in view, Elsa froze. Words failed her. Her knees buckled, and she copsed into a chair instead of the floor. Anyone with a discerning eye could tell that this was nothing but an act.


    At that moment, Ethan and Kenny arrived and walked over. Without hesitation, Julissa struck Kenny hard across the face, the p echoing loud in the restaurant.


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 Chapter 872

    ?Chapter 872:


    ¡°If you¡¯re in love with someone else, why agree to get engaged to my daughter?¡± she said, her eyes zing with anger. ¡°You¡¯re such a jerk! There is not a single decent person in your family!¡±


    Kenny had expected this. The moment he stepped inside, he knew what wasing. He had screwed up badly. He should¡¯ve ignored Elsa¡¯s pressure, should¡¯ve never conspired with Minna to make Ethan break up with Brenna. Now that the truth was out, he had no choice but to face the consequences.


    ¡°I¡¯m truly sorry, Mrs. Davies. I messed up,¡± Kenny said, his voice steady but full of remorse. He didn¡¯t shy away from the moment. If the Davies family wanted to take their anger out on him physically, he wouldn¡¯t lift a hand to stop them.


    Nearby, Ethan watched the scene unfold with a cold expression. He turned his head slightly and said to Minna in an even tone, ¡°I¡¯ll send thepensation to your ountter.¡±


    Minna couldn¡¯t hold back any longer. Her tears spilled freely. The flood of emotions left her breathless. Watching Ethan handle the situation withposure only deepened her feelings for him.


    ¡°Just because you¡¯ve got money and status doesn¡¯t mean you can push people around!¡± Kash shot Kenny a hard re before tugging Minna and Julissa away.


    As they walked off, Minna kept ncing back at Ethan. Suddenly, something clicked in her memory. She turned and shouted, ¡°You better not forget your promise to help me find a job!¡±


    Ethan met her stare with a detached expression before turning away without a word.


    Once the tension had faded, Kenny leaned toward Elsa and whispered, ¡°Mom, they¡¯re gone now.¡±


    Elsa had been pretending to faint this whole time. Even though she was retired, she had a reputation to protect and couldn¡¯t afford to let people know she was faking it. So, she kept up the act.


    Ethan studied her face with a slight frown. Her eyelids twitched several times¡ªclear enough proof for him that she was faking.


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    There was no need for him to handle the remaining matters. Turning to Brenna, he said softly, ¡°Sorry for dragging you into the mess again today.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s expression didn¡¯t shift much. She gave a calm smile. ¡°No need to apologize. I handled it fine. But I have a feeling your mom dislikes me even more now.¡±


    ¡°She won¡¯t get in the way of our rtionship. I won¡¯t let that happen,¡± Ethan replied, casting a nce at Elsa, who was still pretending to be unconscious.


    Kenny carefully lifted Elsa, preparing to take her to the hospital. Hearing Ethan¡¯s firm words stirred something in him. From the very beginning, Ethan had drawn a line, refusing to let Elsa control his life. But Kenny hadn¡¯t done the same. He felt like a puppet, bound by invisible strings, doing whatever his parents asked of him. Now, it seemed difficult to break free from their control.


    ¡°Ethan,e with me. Let¡¯s take Mom to the hospital. Her blood pressure might be acting up again.¡± Even though Kenny knew Elsa was putting on an act, he couldn¡¯t help but feel concerned. He simply didn¡¯t have it in him to be as detached as Ethan.


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 Chapter 873

    ?Chapter 873:


    Brenna had seen right through Elsa¡¯s act, too, but she chose not to call it out.


    ¡°You go ahead. I¡¯m going shopping with the girls. I¡¯m not heading back just yet,¡± Brenna said to Ethan.


    Ethan gave her a nod, pulling a sleek ck credit card from his jacket pocket and handing it to her. ¡°Use my card.¡±


    Brenna cast a nce at the card, then gracefully reached out and took it with her slender fingers. ¡°Alright, but don¡¯t go ming me for spending too muchter.¡±


    Elsa, still leaning against Kenny, burned with rage. She believed Brenna had her son wrapped around her finger. It was maddening to see him so taken by her,pletely blind to her tactics. All she wanted was his money. How could he not see that?


    ¡°I¡¯m only worried that you won¡¯t spend enough,¡± Ethan said with a smallugh before walking off behind Kenny.


    Once they were gone, the restaurant quieted again. Brenna sat back down, but the food on the table had gone cold, so she called a waiter to have it reheated.


    Ellie frowned and shook her head, clearly not fond of Elsa. ¡°Brenna, Ethan¡¯s mom is so controlling. You might want to really think about your rtionship with Ethan.¡±


    Lilith nodded and said, ¡°I can see it, too. The way Elsa acted today was unbelievable. Who would¡¯ve thought that she, the respected singer, would be like this in private? Having someone like her as your future mother-inw is bound to drive you up the wall.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not in a rush to get married,¡± Brenna let out a soft chuckle. ¡°I¡¯ve only just returned to my family. I want to spend a few more years with my parents before I settle down.¡±


    Brenna paused, then added, ¡°To be honest, my mom doesn¡¯t exactly support my rtionship with Ethan, either. But she¡¯s not like Ethan¡¯s mother. She just thinks about setting me up on blind dates.¡±


    Ellie gave a thoughtful nod. ¡°You really should go on a blind date. Who knows? The person you meet might be a better match for you than Ethan. Marriage is aboutpatibility, nothing else.¡±


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    Inside the car, Neville sat at the wheel, while Ethan and Kenny rode in the back. Elsa was ced right in the middle between her two sons. The moment the car doors closed, she opened her eyes, dropping the actpletely.


    Without saying a word, Elsa began hitting Kenny to let out her pent-up frustration.


    Kenny didn¡¯t move. He sat quietly and let her get it out.


    Once Elsa calmed down, her tone turned sharp as she asked, ¡°Where have you been hiding these past few days? Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯ve been living with that woman.¡±


    Kenny¡¯s irritation red. His brows furrowed as he responded, ¡°Mom, don¡¯t talk about her like that.¡±


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 Chapter 874

    ?Chapter 874:


    Elsa reached over and pinched Kenny hard. ¡°You were engaged to Minna, and that woman stole you away from her. Our family faced humiliation because of that. I want to see her in person. Bring her to me so I can question her about everything she¡¯s done.¡±


    Kenny¡¯s irritation grew. ¡°Just take care of your health and stop interfering in my life.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s voice rose with anger. ¡°So now you won¡¯t even listen to me? Kenny, everything I do is for your sake. Let me make myself clear¡ªI won¡¯t let you marry her. As long as I¡¯m still breathing, she will never be part of our family!¡±


    Kenny kept his eyes fixed on the road ahead, choosing to stay silent in the face of Elsa¡¯s shouting.


    Nearby, Ethan observed everything with a detached expression, offering no support to Kenny and making no attempt to calm Elsa down. This was Kenny¡¯s situation to handle. After spending over twenty years under Elsa¡¯s thumb, breaking free wouldn¡¯t happen overnight.


    Despite Elsa¡¯s constant yelling, Kenny didn¡¯t react.


    Elsa¡¯s re burned through him. ¡°Tell me where you¡¯re hiding that woman! Bring her here and let her exin what kind of wicked intentions she has!¡±


    Kenny didn¡¯t bother responding. Instead, he turned to Neville with a t tone, ¡°Pull over.¡±


    Without hesitation, Neville eased the car to the side of the road. Kenny stepped out, mming the door shut behind him. Elsa, furious, eximed, ¡°Just look at that! He¡¯spletely out of control. He won¡¯t even listen to his own mother anymore.¡±


    ¡°Take her home,¡± Ethan said to Neville calmly, brushing off her tantrum. He stepped out of the car himself without another word.


    ¡°You two! How could you both be like this?¡± Elsa clutched her head, seething with frustration. Both her sons were disobedient, driving her crazy.


    Ethan pulled out his phone and called Rex toe pick him up.


    Your next chapter awaits g?ln¦Ò¦Í??ls?c?m


    Meanwhile, Brenna had just finished lunch and was now shopping with Ellie and Lilith. They spent the afternoon at arge shopping center located in the heart of Shirie. The ce was bustling with people and packed with high-end international brands. Every store offered something different¡ªclothing, shoes, makeup, handbags¡­


    Even though Ellie was a fashion designer herself, not every piece she wore came from her own designs. She bought quite a few items from stores just like anyone else.


    With the chill in the air growing stronger, the group stopped at a down jacket shop, spending over an hour inside before each person finally chose two jackets.


    Just across from the store was a children¡¯s clothing shop. Patrick, no longer interested in tagging along with the women, wandered over to browse the kids¡¯ section.


    By the time the three women stepped out of the shop, their arms full of shopping bags, they spotted Patrick standing in front of a Spider-Man down jacket, his eyes fixed on it.


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 Chapter 875

    ?Chapter 875:


    Nearby, a child stood admiring the same jacket. A fashionable woman in her thirties, dressed youthfully with a polished style, stood beside him. The boy, around ten years old, wore a sleek all-ck outfit and had striking features. It was L and her son.


    ¡°Mom, I want this one!¡± Seth eximed, grabbing the Spider-Man jacket and stamping his foot, tears welling up in his eyes.


    A cheerful sales assistant walked over, saying, ¡°This Spider-Man down jacketes with a bonus. When you buy the jacket, you get a free figurine.¡±


    She pointed to a disy case behind the register. Inside it stood over twenty action figures, each more than a foot tall, showcasing characters from ¡°Pacific Rim,¡± ¡°Transformers,¡± ¡°Spider-Man,¡± and ¡°Captain America.¡±


    Seth¡¯s gaze immediately locked onto one of the ¡°Pacific Rim¡± figures.


    He liked the jacket, but he wanted both.


    L sighed. ¡°Seth, this jacket costs over seven thousand. That¡¯s way too expensive for us right now. Can we find a jacket you like somewhere else?¡±


    Seth shook his head, his voice rising. ¡°No! I want this one!¡±


    As Brenna and the others stepped inside the store, they immediately noticed the scene¡ªa mother and son locked in a standoff, one refusing to budge, the other trying to reason.


    For a moment, Brenna felt the boy looked oddly familiar, though she couldn¡¯t quite recall where she had seen him before.


    She let the thought go and walked toward Patrick, gently ruffling his hair. ¡°So, you like the Spider-Man jacket?¡±


    Patrick gave a quick nod and tugged her hand toward the cashier. He pointed at the disy case. ¡°I want that ¡®Pacific Rim¡¯ figurine. If we buy the Spider-Man jacket, we can get the figurine for free!¡±


    ¡°Then go ahead and get it,¡± said Brenna with a smile.


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    A bright cheer burst from Patrick. ¡°Brenna, I love you!¡± he shouted before eagerly turning to the pretty sales assistant. ¡°Hi, I really like the other ¡®Pacific Rim¡¯ figurines too. If we buy more jackets, can we get more of them?¡±


    The sales assistant, recognizing the excitement in Patrick¡¯s voice, took a nce at Brenna¡¯s designer coat¡ªa high-end international brand worth over two hundred thousand¡ªand realized the boy came from a wealthy family.


    ¡°For every ten thousand you spend, you can get one figurine for free. Feel free to look around and select more jackets,¡± she said with a smile.


    Patrick¡¯s face lit up even more as he turned to Brenna, eyes wide. ¡°Can I get more jackets, please?¡±


    Before Brenna could answer, Ellie walked over and gently pinched her son¡¯s ear. ¡°Hey, your mother is standing right here. Why are you asking Brenna for things? Do you think I can¡¯t afford it?¡±


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 Chapter 876

    ?Chapter 876:


    Patrick let out a sheepishugh. ¡°I just think Brenna is easier to persuade.¡±


    Ellie rolled her eyes and took his hand, guiding him away to look at more jackets.


    Meanwhile, Brenna and Lilith continued browsing through the store.


    L stood near the Spider-Man jacket, speaking into her phone with a tired, frustrated voice. ¡°My son really wants this one. I know it¡¯s expensive, but they¡¯re running a deal; if we buy it, we get the figurine he likes for free.¡±


    After hearing the response on the other end, L¡¯s voice suddenly sharpened. ¡°What do you mean you can¡¯t earn enough for this? You won¡¯t even spend a little for your own son? Let me remind you¡ªyou¡¯re still living under my roof. Hurry up and bring some money here.¡±


    Ten minutester, Alec rushed in from outside, wearing a ck fanny pack strapped around his waist, a bulky down jacket, dark trousers, and ck leather shoes. To Brenna, he looked like an Uber driver.


    Thest time they had crossed paths was at that dinner when Ruby and Isabe had tried to convince her to take over Denis¡¯ business dealings.


    In just a month, Alec¡¯s appearance had changed again. Now, he looked more like a small-time hustler, with noticeably more gray hair. When his eyesnded on Brenna, his worn-out face lit up slightly with surprise. He had been scraping bytely, working nonstop as an Uber driver. Even with L¡¯s ie, they were barely pulling in twenty-five thousand a month. It wasn¡¯t nearly enough to cover their bills.


    No matter how hard he worked, L always found something toin about. His paycheck never seemed good enough for her, and threats of divorce had be a regr routine.


    The moment Alec saw Brenna, an idea sparked in his mind. A faint smile crept onto his face. ¡°What a coincidence. You¡¯re here too, Brenna.¡±


    ¡°Dad!¡± Seth called out, rushing over to grab Alec¡¯s hand. With excitement in his eyes, the boy pointed straight at the disy near the cashier. ¡°I want that one! If you buy the Spider-Man down jacket, they¡¯ll give you a figurine for free!¡±


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    Seeing the boy, Alec felt frustrated. But if he refused Seth¡¯s request, L would explode and probably throw more divorce threats at him. He had no desire to end up homeless.


    Still, he hesitated. His monthly ie barely reached ten thousand, and he was reluctant to spend it freely.


    Just today, after spending hours on the road, he had made only two hundred. Once fuel costs were deducted, the actual profit was even less.


    A quick nce at the price tag of a nearby jacket made his stomach tighten. One jacket cost fourteen thousand!


    That was absurd. He couldn¡¯t even afford a single jacket with what he made in a whole month.


    Did his family not understand their financial situation? Why were they asking for luxuries when they were barely getting by?


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 Chapter 877

    ?Chapter 877:


    He shot a re at L. ¡°What is this about? Can¡¯t you exin things to him calmly? We can¡¯t afford clothes this expensive right now.¡±


    L crossed her arms and snapped, ¡°Why are you raising your voice? Yes, the jacket is pricey, but he hasn¡¯t had anything new in months. Our son used to wear clothes that cost thousands. Why should his standards drop now?¡±


    That made Alec¡¯s frustration spike. Lately, L had be impossible to reason with. Her kind, understanding nature had vanished. Now, she either made him do housework or pushed him to earn more money. He was sick of it.


    Catching the shift in Alec¡¯s expression, Seth began to panic, worried that he wouldn¡¯t get what he wanted. He pulled Alec in front of the Spider-Man down jacket. ¡°Dad, I¡¯m not being unreasonable. This is the cheapest one here. You can buy me this. My ssmates always dress better than me. Theyugh at me for wearing cheap clothes. I don¡¯t want that anymore.¡±


    Hearing that, Alec snapped, ¡°Don¡¯tpete over what people wear. If you want topete, do it with grades.¡±


    Seth quickly responded, ¡°I ranked second on my midterms! I studied hard, and you still haven¡¯t rewarded me. Can¡¯t this be my reward? Some of my ssmates wear shoes that cost twenty thousand. This jacket is only seven;pared to that, it¡¯s not expensive at all.¡±


    L gave Alec a sharp look, clearly annoyed. ¡°He¡¯s not asking for a lot. Just one jacket. Can you really not give him even that? Is this how you should act as a father?¡±


    Her expression was full of contempt, making her displeasure crystal clear. ¡°I should¡¯ve never epted you into my life!¡±


    Alec¡¯s anger boiled over. To him, L had be utterly ungrateful. For over ten years, he had supported her financially, spending millions on her each year. And now, after just a short rough patch, she dared speak to him like this?


    ¡°There was a time I was a major yer in business. You and the kid livedfortably because of me. Now I¡¯m stuck driving Uber, and even the car I drive is the one I gave you years ago. I¡¯ve only been working for a month, barely made ten thousand. If I spend it on this jacket, we¡¯ll be left with nothing. So no, we¡¯re not buying it!¡± Alec said.


    As he said that, his eyes drifted toward Brenna. She stood at a distance, watching everything unfold with a cold expression. He felt she was being heartless. He had been standing there for quite a while, and she hadn¡¯t even acknowledged his presence. Now that she knew the boy was her brother, she still didn¡¯t offer to help.


    He leaned down and patted Seth on the shoulder. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, alright? I¡¯ll try to figure something out.¡±


    Then, with a smile stered across his face, Alec walked over to Brenna. ¡°Brenna, why haven¡¯t you said hello to me? Did you forget that I¡¯m your father?¡±


    Brenna had already understood the situation. The boy was Alec¡¯s illegitimate child, and the younger woman beside him was clearly his mistress from before. Earlier, she had overheard the woman calling Alec to help buy the jacket, but judging by Alec¡¯s worn-out look, he probably couldn¡¯t afford it.


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 Chapter 878

    ?Chapter 878:


    ¡°Cut the act,¡± Brenna said sharply. ¡°The second you kicked me out of the family, I stopped being your daughter. I¡¯m part of the Harper family now.¡± She looked him directly in the eye. ¡°Isabe is your daughter. I heard she¡¯s gotten rich these days.¡±


    She knew Alec¡¯s sudden friendliness wasn¡¯t a good thing. He clearly had ulterior motives.


    Alec carried a faint smile, wearing an expression that seemed worlds apart from his old, arrogant self.


    Once, he had believed that turning an obscure factory into a publicpany proved his brilliance. Refusing to ept that he had fallen from the upper crust to society¡¯s lowest rungs, he continued to talk down to others with the same arrogance he had wielded as CEO of Barrett Group after thepany went bankrupt. However, the elites now barely acknowledged him, viewing him as if he were a beggar.


    He couldn¡¯t ept this dramatic shift in his status and felt the world owed him something. Every time he looked for work, he aimed straight for executive positions, asking for millions in annual sry right off the bat. Of course, the only thing he collected was rejection.


    Recruiters often sneered, ¡°At your age, you¡¯d even have troublending a security job. Maybe try your luck as a doorman.¡±


    At home, L and her son grew colder toward him, their words stinging more than before. Only then did Alec feel the full weight of hardship.


    In an effort to keep a roof over his head, he signed up to drive for Uber. He found himself drained by the end of each day, but at least his earnings kept the household afloat. He had been doing this for a month, and during this time, his passengers ranged from polished executives to exhausted office workers. Sometimes, he even picked up rural patients heading to the city for treatment. For the first time, he truly witnessed how the working ss struggled to get by.


    Eventually, a sense of eptance began to settle over him. He no longer fought against his new ce in society.


    Meeting Brenna again, Alec realized what she must have gone through growing up with the Barretts.


    ¡°Brenna, you might still hold a grudge against me, but I am your father. I know I did wrong. I refused to let you go to school and confined you just to make you design for the Barrett Group. Everything was my fault. I acted like a monster!¡± Tears welled up in his eyes.


    Your imagination starts at g ? ln ¦Ò ¦Í?? ??s?conn


    Alec pped his own cheeks over and over again, his actions startling the staff inside the store. Brenna stood frozen, taken aback. Never had she imagined Alec woulde clean about his cruelty, let alone p himself in public.


    ¡°Yeah, you acted like a monster,¡± Brenna said, feeling old pain stir within her, especially the memory of being used as the family¡¯s cash cow ever since the adoption. No one in the Barrett family had ever truly weed her as family.


    ¡°I was never fit to call myself human.¡± Alec pped his cheek once more. ¡°Brenna, let go of your anger. I am paying for my mistakes now. No one respects me. Every day, I hear nothing but insults. I can¡¯t evennd a job. My own children avoid me. I finally see just how wrong I have been. Please, allow me a chance to set things right.¡±


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 Chapter 879

    ?Chapter 879:


    Genuine remorse shone in his eyes as tears streamed down his face.


    Brenna, however, questioned his motives. Since returning to the Harper family, Alec hade to her twice¡ªboth times to stir up trouble, calling her heartless while refusing to acknowledge his own mistakes, even when he had nowhere else to go. This unexpected run-in with him now seemed like nothing more than another act.


    Her expression remained cold and unmoved. Then, to her surprise, Alec suddenly fell to his knees.


    This caught Brenna off guard. Even Lilith, standing by, thought Alec hadpletely lost his mind.


    Lilith quickly tugged Brenna a little further away, fearful that Alec might do something reckless and hurt her in his current state.


    Alec called out, desperation clear in his voice, ¡°Brenna! I know I failed you. I acted less than human. You sacrificed so much for the Barretts, and I treated you like a machine meant to make money. All of that was my fault. The only thing I want now is your forgiveness.¡±


    Tears filled his eyes as he gazed up at her, but Brenna remained unchanged. Her face stayed indifferent.


    Were his tears wasted?


    Alec continued, ¡°My only wish is to see you once in a while. I¡¯ve picked up cookingtely and would love to make you some of my special rib soup. Please, let me do that much for you.¡±


    A tiny crack of warmth pierced through Brenna¡¯s cold exterior. Years spent enduring the Barrett family¡¯s indifference and seeing people¡¯s true colors had left her guarded.


    Alec¡¯s sudden apology today seemed to unravel a knot that had been tightly bound in her heart.


    ¡°Get up,¡± Brenna said coolly.


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    Alec rose to his feet, his voice filled with sincerity. ¡°As your father, I should never have knelt before you or caused a scene. I promise I won¡¯t do it again. The next time I see you, I will act as I should. Do you think you can forgive me?¡±


    Without responding, Brenna shifted her gaze toward the bewildered little boy standing nearby.


    A nervousugh escaped Alec. ¡°I only want you to forgive me. I¡¯d like to introduce you¡­¡±


    Alec gestured toward Seth. ¡°Come over here, Seth. Meet your sister.¡±


    Seth, still sulking from not getting his way earlier, remained motionless. L, sensing Alec¡¯s intentions, gently coaxed her son forward. ¡°Say hello to your sister,¡± she said.


    Seth was reluctant to greet Brenna properly until L bent down and whispered in his ear, ¡°Her family is very rich.¡±


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 Chapter 880

    ?Chapter 880:


    With that piece of information, Seth straightened up. ¡°Miss Harper.¡± Finally, Seth took a proper look at Brenna. Earlier, he had been too caught up in making a scene to notice her. Now, he saw that she had an elegant, refined demeanor and stunning beauty. She was prettier and younger than his mother.


    Brenna chose not to respond. But given Alec¡¯s genuine apology and admission of fault earlier, she decided not to make things difficult for him.


    ¡°Brenna, what do you think of this one?¡± Patrick called out loudly from across the store.


    ¡°Excuse me.¡± Brenna moved to join Patrick and Lilith.


    Behind her, Alec let out a quiet chuckle. ¡°We¡¯ll do some shopping too, then. We won¡¯t disturb you any further.¡±


    When Brenna reached Patrick and Lilith, she saw that Ellie and Patrick had already chosen two jackets, a blue one and a ck one, and were holding a trendy white piece.


    ¡°These are great choices,¡± Brenna said.


    Her eyes wandered over to the disy wall, where rows of stylish jackets and sweaters caught her attention. ¡°Pick out a couple more tops foryering, and be sure to grab two pairs of shoes. Kids outgrow everything so fast, andfort is what matters most.¡±


    Alec¡¯s brow furrowed just for a moment, but he kept his thoughts to himself. He motioned to the sales assistant. ¡°Bring out a Spider-Man winter coat in Seth¡¯s size.¡±


    Winter clothing was expensive, and Seth had already outgrownst year¡¯s wardrobe. Alec nudged L. ¡°Grab a few more things for him; my daughter will settle the bill.¡±


    ¡°Got it,¡± L replied, understanding his intentions. She scanned the options and pointed out a ck down jacket, fleece-lined jeans, a white hoodie, and a gray sweater, all in Seth¡¯s size, and asked the assistant to bring each item.


    ¡°Wrap everything up. My daughter will settle the bill,¡± Alec said to the sales assistant, not the slightest hint of embarrassment in his voice.


    Your next chapter is here g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í???s


    How things had yed out earlier, the sales assistant believed Alec. She quickly totaled up the purchases. ¡°Thates to 39,800 dors.¡±


    A sly grin spread across Alec¡¯s face. ¡°Didn¡¯t you say spending ten grand earns a free action figure? I just spent almost forty; does that mean I get four?¡±


    His request drew a politeugh. The assistant decided not to fuss about a couple of dors short. ¡°Absolutely. Which ones do you want?¡± Eyes sparkling, Seth didn¡¯t hesitate. He pointed eagerly and got four figurines.


    Alec, Seth, and L then left the shop happily.


    Ellie and her son, finishing up their shopping a bitter, moved to pay at the counter. That was when Patrick discovered his favorite figurine was gone.


    A storm of tears welled in his eyes. ¡°That figurine I like, it¡¯s gone!¡± He had spent ages picking out clothes, holding out hope that the figurine would be waiting for him at the end.


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 Chapter 881

    ?Chapter 881:


    ¡°Don¡¯t cry, sweetheart. We still have some other figurines left,¡± the sales assistant said, quickly pulling out a cardboard box from beneath the counter andying out the remaining figurines.


    Luck was on Patrick¡¯s side; there was another one of that figurine.


    His tears dried up, reced by a bright, relieved smile.


    When Brenna reached the register, the cashier greeted her politely and said, ¡°Miss, the gentleman from earlier¡ªyour father¡ªmentioned that you¡¯d be handling payment for their items.¡±


    Brenna was caught off guard.


    Ellie¡¯s temper red. ¡°This is absurd! Why didn¡¯t you double-check with her earlier? That¡¯s her adoptive father, the man who abused her growing up. She would never agree to pay for him!¡±


    The cashier tried to exin, saying, ¡°He was very insistent you¡¯d pay. He is not a store member and has left no contact details, so we have no way to reach him now. You seem well off, Miss¡ªcould you please pay for him for now? Here¡¯s the receipt; you can ask him for moneyter.¡± Guilt weighed heavily on the cashier¡¯s shoulders. She¡¯d had no clue there was such a painful history. Earlier, watching Alec kneeling and crying, she had assumed it was an emotional reunion.


    Desperation entered the cashier¡¯s voice as she pleaded, ¡°Miss, could you please help me out here?¡±


    Nervousness crept in¡ªshe knew her monthly wage would never cover such an expensive bill if Brenna refused.


    A tremor ran through her words. ¡°Miss, I really can¡¯t afford to cover the loss¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll pay,¡± Brenna replied, her tone calm.


    The relief on the cashier¡¯s face was immediate. ¡°Thank you so much! You¡¯re incredibly generous. Please ept a free gift.¡±


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    She brought out a handful of children¡¯s backpacks from beneath the counter. ¡°Pick whichever one you like.¡±


    Meanwhile, Ellie fumed with anger for Brenna¡¯s sake. ¡°How could he pull something like this? I bet he never nned to pay in the first ce. Those tears and apologies were all for show, just a scheme to guilt you into paying for him. He wasn¡¯t sincere when he apologized, not for a second!¡±


    ¡°Let it go. It¡¯s not much money.¡± Brenna could see that Alec¡¯s apology probably wasn¡¯t sincere. Yet, after years of watching him lord over her, always acting like she owed him, the fact that he had dropped to his knees¡ªeven if it was all for show¡ªmeant he had swallowed his pride. Paying the bill was no big deal for her.


    Lilith stepped in, trying to lighten Ellie¡¯s mood. ¡°That¡¯s enough. Is his kneeling really worth that much money?¡±


    But Ellie was still angry. ¡°It makes my blood boil!¡± She remembered the days when Brenna had run to Norview to escape the Barretts, scraping by just to survive. Even if Alec banged his head on the ground until he bled, she would never forgive him.


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 Chapter 882

    ?Chapter 882:


    Once the bill was paid and they exited the shop, Patrick said he was hungry again.


    Not long after, they stumbled upon a busy dessert caf¨¦, the scent of sugar and coffee pulling them inside.


    The ce was packed, with barely a seat to spare. The crowds, though, were a good sign¡ªthe treats here had to be worth it. As luck would have it, just as they started waiting, a table of customers got up to leave. Brenna and the others quickly took the spot.


    ¡°I never thought this ce would be swarming with customers,¡± Brenna remarked casually.


    Lilith responded, ¡°Well, that just means the food here must be good.¡±


    Meanwhile, just outside the shopping center, Alec made a break for his car, his keys jingling as he flung open the doors and the trunk.


    ¡°Get in now! Move before they catch up with us!¡±


    L was not in a rush. She took her time arranging the shopping bags neatly in the trunk.


    Alec grew more agitated with every passing second. ¡°Can you move any quicker? We don¡¯t have all day!¡± he snapped. ¡°If those people catch up, they¡¯ll demand the thirty-nine thousand eight hundred dors. Where am I supposed to pull that kind of money from?¡±


    Ignoring his anxiety, L helped Seth climb into the car. She handed him a bag filled with desserts¡ªeight different kinds, plus a cold bottle of soda¡ªall favorites from the very caf¨¦ Brenna and her friends had just entered.


    A smug smile yed on her lips as she said to Seth, ¡°We managed to save a lot of money today. Go on, help yourself, sweetheart. Haven¡¯t you been asking for these desserts forever?¡± Seth¡¯s face lit up. ¡°You¡¯re the best, Mom!¡±


    For weeks, he had been sulking, worn thin by his parents¡¯ constant arguments. Overheard fights had taught him two things: their money was long gone, and his dad¡¯s glory days were over.


    Trips to the dessert shop used to be a regr treat¡ªfour times a month, sometimes more. Recently, he hadn¡¯t been able to go even once, making him crave those vors terribly.


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    Tucking herself into the passenger seat, L cast Alec a sharp nce. ¡°Why the panic? If they were going to chase after us, you¡¯d see them by now.¡±


    With a frustrated sigh, Alec slumped behind the wheel. ¡°You just don¡¯t get it. What if they do show up? How will you handle that? We nearly bumped right into them near the dessert shop. Luckily, Seth noticed them in time.¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re not chasing us,¡± L replied, her voice edged with annoyance.


    Alec shook his head, exasperation clear on his face. ¡°You never think about the consequences. I took Brenna in when she was a toddler. In those early years, things were decent; Ruby was good to her. We didn¡¯t have much, but we had peace. Then, when she hit third grade, I noticed her knack for design. By the time she was nine, I made her quit school and devote herself to design work from home. My logic was simple: talent should be put to use, not wasted in ssrooms.¡±


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 Chapter 883

    ?Chapter 883:


    When Alec thought about it now, regret gnawed at him. His treatment of Brenna seemed downright cruel in hindsight.


    ¡°Looking back, what could I really expect from a child of ten? Whenever she failed to deliver designs up to my standards, I¡¯d starve her. She handled all the chores, too, and if she slipped up, I¡¯d hit her.¡±


    L¡¯s eyebrows shot up, her tone sharp. ¡°That¡¯s cruel, Alec. Adopted or not, a child deserves better. Besides, she earned money for you.¡±


    Alec nodded. ¡°You¡¯re right. Looking back now, I realize I went too far. That¡¯s why I think we should run after we scammed her out of all that money today. You and Seth, you¡¯re bold¡ªaren¡¯t you worried she¡¯ll track you down and beat you up for this?¡±


    A sigh slipped from his mouth. A part of him still believed he hadn¡¯t gotten enough money from Brenna.


    He continued, ¡°These days, she lives in luxury, pampered like royalty. Meanwhile, I¡¯m out on the streets, driving a cab, working twelve-hour shifts, barely scraping by.¡±


    A flicker of outrage crossed L¡¯s face. ¡°The Harper family is filthy rich, yet here you are, struggling. After all the years you spent raising Brenna, how could she not offer you some money? The kind of cash she spends carelessly could set our family up for life.¡± Her gaze shifted to Alec, her eyes narrowing with conviction. ¡°Honestly, it seemed like she was ready to forgive you today. Why don¡¯t you try asking her for more money?¡±


    Alec let out a derisiveugh. ¡°What¡¯s the point? My own flesh and blood refuse to lend me a hand. Why would Brenna, an adopted child, have any pity left for me? Asking her for money would be pointless. Just wait¡ªshe¡¯ll soone to me, demanding that I return the money we just took.¡±


    Back at his apartment, Alec¡¯s anger grew. Memories of his son and daughter living in sprawling mansions and cruising in luxury cars shed through his mind. Meanwhile, he struggled to scrape together enough for even the simplestforts.


    He felt like aplete failure.


    Each time he thought about this, bitterness seeped deeper within him. He had lost all motivation to continue his work.


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    ¡°We need a new n. Isabe didn¡¯t just reject mest time; she threw me out like I was nothing. What should we try next? We can¡¯t keep going like this. There has to be a way to get some money from them,¡± Alec said.


    ¡°I¡¯ll consult my mother in the morning,¡± L replied. She had sessfully seduced Alec because she was beautiful, knew how to tter men, and had a mother who was good at scheming.


    A quick nce at the clock told Alec it was only five in the afternoon. ¡°Why wait until tomorrow? You can consult her now. Your mother is alwaysing up with great ideas. The sooner we act, the sooner our situation improves.¡±


    L pursed her lips in agreement. ¡°You¡¯re right. Your children are all wealthy, yet none care about your well-being. That can¡¯t be right.¡± Without changing her clothes, L stood and called for her son. ¡°Let¡¯s head to your grandmother¡¯s house.¡±


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 Chapter 884

    ?Chapter 884:


    Back when Alec¡¯s business had flourished, L had gotten plenty of his money and always shared some with her mother. Now, Alec was left scraping by as a driver, unable to afford a warm coat for winter. From her point of view, L figured her mother, having benefited from Alec before, would surely be willing to help theme up with a n.


    The following day was Sunday.


    Brenna, still wrapped in her nkets, was in no hurry to leave thefort of her bed. A soft knock at the door signaled Julia¡¯s entrance. ¡°Miss Harper, Alec is here asking to speak with you.¡±


    Confusion flickered across Brenna¡¯s face. ¡°Did he say what this is about?¡±


    Julia shook her head. ¡°No, but he brought a food container. He¡¯s waiting by the gate. If you¡¯d rather not see him, I can turn him away.¡± It was no secret to Julia that Brenna wanted nothing to do with the Barretts and had sent them away before.


    Normally, she would have sent Alec away without hesitation, but his respectful manner today gave her pause.


    ¡°I¡¯ll meet him,¡± Brenna said, wondering about Alec¡¯s intentions. Yesterday¡¯s antics had been enough of a surprise. What was he going to do now?


    Julia made her way downstairs, escorted Alec inside, and let him wait in the living room.


    None of the other members of the Harper family were home. Shepard and Ernst had already gone to their offices, while Dalton was most likely busy filming. A call from her rtives had sent Giselle out the door; she was visiting her brothers.


    In all the months Brenna spent under the Harpers¡¯ roof, Giselle had never spoken about her own family. But the previous day, when Giselle mentioned her brothers, she seemed to hesitate. She¡¯d declined their request to visit her home, choosing instead to go to them.


    After freshening up and quickly changing into a long knitted dress, Brenna descended the stairs.


    When Alec saw her, he stered an ingratiating smile on his face and assessed her carefully. She appeared far more refined now than during her days with the Barretts. ¡°Brenna, it means a lot that you agreed to meet me.¡±


    hosts great stories


    No warmth showed in Brenna¡¯s gaze. She strode past him and imed a seat on the sofa.


    ¡°What do you want?¡± Brenna asked. She had recently had Alec investigated and knew he was barely scraping by as a driver.


    Frustrated by her cold demeanor, Alec cursed her silently. This spoiled brat ignored her struggling father without a shred of shame. He believed he should have been harsher with her, disciplined her more in the past.


    Despite his anger, Alec maintained a remorseful facade.


    Sitting down beside Brenna, he ced the food container on the table and nudged it toward her. ¡°Brenna, I¡¯m here to apologize to you today.¡±


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 Chapter 885

    ?Chapter 885:


    Brenna¡¯s lips curled into a cold smile. ¡°Apologize for what, exactly?¡±


    Alec let out a sigh. ¡°For what happened yesterday, for making you pay for those clothes. I¡¯m truly sorry. Even though I am your father, I still owe you an apology. Please ept it.¡±


    ¡°Stop acting like you¡¯re my father,¡± Brenna retorted bluntly. ¡°Shepard is my father, not you. We¡¯re practically strangers.¡± She suspected Alec was after her money, likely emboldened by her fleeting generosity the day before.


    A flush crept up Alec¡¯s cheeks. Anger red, but his time as a driver had taught him patience. Working in service had exposed him to many insults, and he had learned not to get angry so easily.


    ¡°You¡¯re absolutely right. Shepard is your father. I don¡¯t deserve that title. Please don¡¯t get angry. I came here just to apologize to you.¡±


    ¡°Apologize?¡± Brenna arched a brow, a mix of curiosity and suspicion in her eyes. She wondered what Alec was really trying to aplish with this.


    Alec said, ¡°About those clothes¡ªI know I took them and vanished without paying. That was my mistake, and I won¡¯t pretend otherwise. Right now, I just don¡¯t have the money to pay you back. But listen, I¡¯vended a job. I¡¯m driving a taxi now. With some effort, my monthly earnings should top ten thousand. In five months, I¡¯ll have the thirty-nine thousand eight hundred ready for you. I¡¯ll pay it all back.¡± He smiled awkwardly. ¡°My n is simple; I¡¯ll hand you ten thousand each month. Please, don¡¯t hound me for more, and whatever happens, leave Seth and L out of this. They don¡¯t have any money.¡±


    No one could have prepared Brenna for this. Thest thing she had expected was for Alec to turn up at her door and promise to pay her back in installments. She had thought he would try to make her pity him and ask for money.


    Was this really Alec, the man who always looked out for himself first? Brenna doubted he had suddenly grown a conscience. Deep down, she suspected he was up to something.


    Most people wouldn¡¯t have let Alec pay his debt after seeing his sincere attitude. But Brenna was different. In her mind, Alec¡¯s real hope was that she would do exactly that, so he could look genuinely sorry and cast her as generous. That way, their rtionship would seem improved, and he¡¯d find a way to stay involved in her life.


    That was a clever scheme.


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    ¡°Alright.¡± Brenna didn¡¯t waver as she replied. ¡°You can pay me back like that.¡±


    A quick flicker of disappointment shed across Alec¡¯s face. He had not expected her to actually agree to that. Did she honestly care about such a small sum? How could she still ask him to pay her back after what he had said?


    Still, Alec didn¡¯t argue. ¡°Alright, Brenna. I won¡¯t bother you anymore. I¡¯ll head out now. I brought you some pork rib soup I made myself. It took hours to cook. I hope you¡¯ll give it a try.¡±


    Julia wasted no time showing Alec the door.


    Aftering back, Julia asked Brenna what to do with the soup. When Brenna lifted the lid on the container, the rich scent of pork rib soup filled the air. It looked delicious, but she had no ns to touch it.


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 Chapter 886

    ?Chapter 886:


    ¡°Take it outside and feed the stray cats and dogs,¡± Brenna said.


    Seeing that soup instantly stirred up memories from her childhood. During those years, the Barrett family livedfortably¡ªmaybe not rich, but far from struggling.


    Growing up as the adopted daughter, Brenna was treated more like help than family. Each day, she bnced her design work with a mountain of chores and cooking. Whenever she put together an extravagant meal, she never even got to taste it. She could only eat with the maids. Sometimes, she would steal food and suffer a severe beating when she was caught.


    Alec always looked the other way when she was being beaten. Sometimes, he even joined in and hit her. Now that she had built a life of her own and had more money than she could ever spend, Alec showed up, trying to win her over.


    Did he really believe that a couple of nice gestures could erase years of hurt? Did he think she was so easily fooled?


    As lunchtime neared, Brenna noticed her stomach grumbling. In the kitchen, a few chefs moved busily, preparing lunch. Summer Miller, one of the maids, caught sight of her standing in the doorway and came over. ¡°Miss Harper, are you feeling hungry? We just brought in some fresh whole-grain bread this morning, and there¡¯s a new fruit jam as well. Would you like to try some?¡±


    Brenna gave a small nod in response.


    Summer, who had been with the Harper family for decades and was known for her sharp eye and steady work ethic, managed the kitchen with practiced ease. Without missing a beat, Summer prepared two slices of whole-grain bread, spread ayer of fruit jam, and handed the te to Brenna. epting the food, Brenna made her way upstairs.


    Once Brenna had left, Summer stepped into the bathroom, slipped her phone from her pocket, and dialed a number.


    ¡°Miss Rosie Harper? It¡¯s Summer. I have something to report¡­¡± At that moment, Rosie was handling emails from various Plica branch offices, and her phone was set to speaker, resting on her desk. ¡°Wait, Brenna didn¡¯t turn Alec away immediately?¡± Rosie asked after hearing what Summer had said.


    Summer replied, ¡°No. But as for the pork rib soup Alec brought, Brenna told Julia to feed it to the stray cats and dogs outside. She didn¡¯t eat it.¡±


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    Rosie considered this revtion for a moment. ¡°That¡¯s helpful to know. Keep watching the Harper household and let me know if anything happens.¡±


    After the call ended, Rosie mulled over Summer¡¯s words. ¡°The Barretts have shown up at Brenna¡¯s door before. When they lost everything, they visited Brenna several times, but she always turned them away. Now, out of nowhere, she actually met with Alec. That¡¯s certainly unexpected.¡±


    Without hesitation, Rosie unlocked her banking app and transferred twenty thousand to a discreet ount. She then called Isabe.


    ¡°Let¡¯s meet for dinner tonight. I have something for you to do.¡±


    On the other end of the line, Isabe sounded like she was in a bad mood, her voice sharp. ¡°Rosie, I already made ns tonight. You can just tell me what you want me to do over the phone now.¡±


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 Chapter 887

    ?Chapter 887:


    Rosie picked up on her bad mood. ¡°What¡¯s going on? You sound upset.¡±


    A heavy sigh escaped Isabe. Frustration colored her every word as she spoke. ¡°Denis might get engaged to someone else soon. After everything I¡¯ve done for him, I really thought I was the most important woman in his life, but he still refuses to marry me. Rosie, you have to help me with this. I don¡¯t want to be the other woman forever.¡±


    Rosie hated dealing with this kind of thing. Isabe¡¯s words immediately reminded her of how Ethan had abandoned her before.


    ¡°Who is Denis nning to marry?¡± she asked.


    Isabe replied, ¡°No idea. He won¡¯t tell me. Lately, he¡¯s been shopping for suits, and yesterday, I overheard him talking about heading abroad for wedding photos. I don¡¯t know who he is going to marry. How am I supposed to stop him if I have no idea who he¡¯s marrying?¡±


    Around five o¡¯clock, Giselle pulled up to the Bentley family estate, the ride home handled by the family¡¯s chauffeur. She was in a foul mood, her face dark. Just as she had expected, her visit to her brothers had ended with them asking her for money again. For years, her brothers¡¯ businesses had hemorrhaged money. Even with Shepard and Ernst secretly helping them, their ventures still ended in failure.


    Both Shepard and Ernst had gone to great lengths to hide the truth from Giselle, knowing how much she despised her brothers¡¯ziness and get-rich-quick schemes.


    What infuriated her more was her brothers¡¯ push to secure jobs for their children within the Harper Group, a move Giselle strongly opposed. Over the past two years, she had even stopped answering their calls altogether.


    Had it not been for her two brothers calling Shepard, who then persuaded her that it would be better to help them financially, she would never have gone to visit her brothers again.


    The moment Giselle stepped inside, Julia met her with a ss of water and greeted her respectfully. One nce told Giselle that Julia wanted to say something to her. She dropped heavily onto the sofa, sighing as she took the ss of water, drank half of it, and handed it back.


    ¡°Did something happen here while I was gone?¡±


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    Julia kept her answer brief, recounting Alec¡¯s visit and the way Brenna had treated him. She then added, ¡°I don¡¯t think Miss Harper is as hostile toward Mr. Barrett as she used to be.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°Did Alec really not ask for money?¡± Behind the scenes, Shepard had always monitored Alec; he was the architect of the Barrett family¡¯s downfall. Though Giselle knew Alec¡¯s situation was dire, she didn¡¯t know the details.


    A quick shake of the head was Julia¡¯s reply. ¡°No. In fact, he is not as arrogant as before. I only offered him a ss of water when he visited, but he didn¡¯t utter a singleint.¡±


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 Chapter 888

    ?Chapter 888:


    A sharp, coldugh escaped from Giselle. ¡°He might be able to fool my daughter, but his tricks don¡¯t work on me. Alec has always looked out for himself. After leeching off my daughter for years, there¡¯s no way he showed up just to send her food out of goodwill. He¡¯s definitely scheming something.¡±


    Julia nodded in agreement. ¡°You¡¯re right. He put on a good front, but after observing him for a while, I noticed he still had that cunning look about him.¡±


    ¡°Bring some coffee upstairs,¡± Giselle instructed, her tone brisk. ¡°I need a word with Brenna in her room.¡±


    ¡°Of course. Miss Harper stayed at home all day; she¡¯s upstairs now,¡± Julia replied.


    Without wasting any time, Giselle climbed the stairs.


    In her room, Brenna was absorbed in drafting the design for a robot, Braeden¡¯stest project for her. The design required a machine capable of handling rough terrain, squeezing through narrow gaps, and even operating underwater.


    Just then, she heard a knock on the door.


    ¡°Come in,¡± she called, not turning her focus away.


    Giselle crossed the room, pulled up a chair, and settled beside Brenna, silently studying the intricate lines on the screen as she worked, saying nothing.


    Momentster, Julia entered quietly, setting down a pot of coffee and cups in front of Giselle before leaving.


    Eventually, Brenna finished outlining the design, then turned to her mother. ¡°What did your brothers want, Mom?¡±


    Giselle gave a snort, her displeasure obvious. ¡°What else could they want? They whined about being broke and tried to get me to convince your father and brothers to give them money. Their shamelessness is unbelievable. They used to at least ask for a business project to earn money. But now, they just t-out demand money, and not just a little; they ask for a billion dors right off the bat.¡±


    Just thinking about it left Giselle seething. ¡°I warned your father and brothers ages ago about this and told them not to help them. But they didn¡¯t listen and gave them money whenever they asked for it. Do you know what happened next? Those two families were never satisfied, never grateful. They even med us for not giving them enough.¡±


    After a pause, she continued, ¡°Eventually, your father and brothers finally wised up and cut them off two years ago. Now, they¡¯ve squandered everything they had and are back to asking our family for money. Last week, they even caused a scene at the Harper Group. Today, I told them point-nk: I will not give them another cent. We¡¯re not running a charity.¡±


    g¦Á ? ¦Ç¦Ò ¦Í?? ??s has it all


    Massaging her temples, Giselle let out a frustrated sigh. ¡°You should¡¯ve seen how they reacted when I said no.¡±


    One eyebrow arched, Brenna asked, ¡°Don¡¯t tell me they threatened to jump off the roof?¡±


    ¡°Jump off the roof? They valued their lives too much to die. Both of them, well into their sixties, flung themselves on the floor and started howling. Their wives left the front door wide open, so the whole neighborhood got a front-row seat. They even went so far as to call everyone over to witness what a heartless person I was. Can you believe I¡¯m rted to these shameless people?¡±


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 Chapter 889

    ?Chapter 889:


    ¡°Mom, wasn¡¯t the Bentley family well off once? I heard they were just as rich as the Harpers before. What happened to them?¡± Brenna asked.


    A sigh escaped Giselle. ¡°None of them had a head for business. After your grandparents passed, things went downhill. One by one, thepanies they owned copsed. They had such a massive fortune, yet they managed to squander it all.¡±


    Talking with Brenna about this left Giselle visibly relieved, her spirits lifted. ¡°There¡¯s no need to stress over these matters. Even if things get out of hand, your father and brothers will step in before I¡¯m overwhelmed. There¡¯s something else I want to talk to you about. I heard Alec stopped by? And you actually agreed to meet him? I remember you used to hate him so much that you turned him down every time he showed up at your door.¡±


    A bitter smile crossed Brenna¡¯s face as she recounted the unexpected encounter at the mall and what had happened. Afterward, she poured coffee for both Giselle and herself, sipping it slowly.


    Resignation flickered across Giselle¡¯s features, but she was also angry. Years of watching the Harper family navigate business had taught her to recognize the masks people wore for the sake of profit, even though she never got involved in business deals. She had looked into Alec before. He was notorious for being untrustworthy in business, having deceived many people.


    With no real support from his own children, Alec was left wandering back to Brenna. Clearly, he had ulterior motives.


    Giselle said, ¡°Brenna, you have to remember, Alec¡¯s entire career was built on slippery words and hidden agendas. He¡¯s desperate for money now; there¡¯s no doubt he¡¯s trying to get money from you. Life has been rough for himtely, but that doesn¡¯t mean you owe him anything. Think back on those years you spent at his house. He never once treated you with kindness.¡±


    A slow nod from Brenna showed she was listening. ¡°I know, Mom. But whether he meant it or not, he swallowed his pride and knelt in front of me yesterday. I¡¯ve decided to forgive him. Please, ask Dad and my brother to stop targeting him from now on.¡±


    ¡°You silly child. You put on this cold front, but when someone like him shows even a hint of regret, you let your guard down. What am I supposed to do with you? I cannot shake the feeling that Alec is scheming something. Let us keep an eye on him. Do not let him fool you. Promise me you will not give him a single cent, do you hear me?¡± Giselle¡¯s unease lingered, and she feared that Brenna¡¯s kindness would make her vulnerable to Alec¡¯s schemes.


    Brenna nodded in agreement.


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    After chatting with Brenna for a bit longer, Giselle said, ¡°Focus on your work. I won¡¯t disturb you further.¡± Then, she left.


    A few minutes passed before Brenna¡¯s phone lit up with a call from Ethan.


    Brenna quickly answered the call. ¡°Hey, what¡¯s up?¡±


    Ethan replied, ¡°Kenny and his girlfriend want to talk to us about something. Let¡¯s have dinner together tonight. I¡¯ll text you the address. Neville will drive over and pick you up.¡±


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 Chapter 890

    Chapter 890:


    That caught Brenna off guard. ¡°What could Kenny possibly need to discuss with us?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a bitplicated. We¡¯ll talk about it when you get here,¡± Ethan replied, ending the call.


    Brenna stared at her phone before ncing at the clock. The evening had nearly arrived, slipping quietly toward six o¡¯clock. After putting on some simple makeup, she grabbed her bag and made her way downstairs. By the time she stepped into the private dining room, the others had already gathered.


    She greeted them with a small nod and chose the seat next to Ethan. Rosanna¡¯s outfit caught Brenna¡¯s attention. She had traded her usual uniform for clothes that added a touch more charm.


    Brenna had a good impression of Rosanna. She liked the clear, no-nonsense look in her eyes, a refreshing change from Minna¡¯s ever-calcting gaze.


    ¡°Miss Harper, good evening. I¡¯m Rosanna. I fly fighter jets. Kenny and I served in the same squadron and flew side by side on many missions,¡± Rosanna said, her handshake firm and her smile bright. ¡°It¡¯s good to meet you atst. Word travels fast, and I¡¯ve heard of your work. The fighter jets you designed are remarkable. The test flights areing up in two years.¡±


    Brenna could tell that Rosanna was a straightforward person, someone who expressed her emotions openly.


    ¡°Nice to meet you,¡± Brenna replied, her tone cool andposed. ¡°I admire your courage to crash the engagement banquet.¡±


    A heartyugh burst from Rosanna. She knew full well she had taken a risk, and her superiors had given her a hard time for it. But Brenna¡¯s remark held no criticism, just a measure of respect. She appreciated that. ¡°I believe that if you love someone, you have to be brave enough to fight for that person, no matter what stands in your way,¡± Rosanna said.


    Turning her attention to Ethan, Brenna said, ¡°If Ethan were the one getting engaged to someone else, I probably wouldn¡¯t step in and interrupt the ceremony.¡±


    Ethan looked at her, a tinge of shock evident on his face. ¡°You would just sit back and do nothing? Why would you let someone take me away from you?¡±


    g ? ln ¦Ò ¦Í?? ?s, where stories thrive


    Brenna arched an eyebrow. ¡°With the way you are, no one could make you do anything against your will. If you ever got engaged or married, I¡¯m sure it would be your own decision.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s shoulders drooped as he sighed, stung by her honesty. ¡°I don¡¯t agree. Sometimes things happen beyond our control.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s voice stayed strong. ¡°I don¡¯t think so.¡±


    Ethan leaned in, meeting her eyes. ¡°Promise me, if something like that happens, you¡¯ll ruin the ceremony and take me back.¡±


    Rolling her eyes, Brenna chose to ignore him.


    Kenny and Rosanna exchanged amused nces. Rosanna grinned.


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    .<hr>


    Message from Noah: Have a beautiful day dear ones. God loves you and Noah wishes you all the best. (©¤??O)


    .

 Chapter 891

    ?Chapter 891:


    ¡°You two are really funny,¡± she said before sliding the menu toward Brenna. ¡°Go ahead and order first.¡±


    Brenna took her time, ordered three dishes, and handed the menu back to Rosanna.


    Ethan and Kenny followed suit, cing their orders.


    Once the waiter left, Ethan turned serious as he said to Brenna, ¡°There¡¯s a reason we called you here. Kenny and Rosanna want a secret wedding, but Rosanna¡¯s position makes it hard for her to leave the country. If they stay here, they¡¯re afraid my mother will find out about the wedding and ruin it. We need to find a ce where my mother can¡¯t interfere and ruin their ns.¡±


    ¡°Why would you get married secretly? After the papers are signed, thew sees you as husband and wife. Your mother¡¯s opinion won¡¯t change that,¡± Brenna said, her voice calm. Her face betrayed no emotion, treating the whole matter as something trivial.


    ncing at one another, the group searched for someone brave enough to answer. Ethan spoke up. ¡°My mom took the matter so badly that she ended up in the hospital. She even threatened to jump off the building if they got married without her knowing.¡±


    A sigh escaped Brenna as she rolled her eyes for the third time. ¡°Your mother is really something. Luckily for you, I still haven¡¯t made up my mind about marrying you. My own parents keep telling me to wait a little longer.¡±


    With a weary pinch of his nose, Ethan turned to Kenny. ¡°We¡¯re totally at our mother¡¯s mercy.¡±


    An amused twitch flickered at the edge of Brenna¡¯s mouth. ¡°Are you sure she¡¯s not bluffing? Every time she threatens to throw herself off a building, I doubt she really means it. She only wants to scare you into giving in. After you get married, what can she do about it?¡± She spoke bluntly, even though she was talking about her boyfriend¡¯s mother.


    Rosanna admired how Brenna cut right to the heart of things. She had been thinking the same thing, but had never dared to say it aloud to Kenny.


    Feeling braver after Brenna¡¯sments, Rosanna said, ¡°I¡¯m thinking the same thing. When I messed up the engagement party, your mother was perfectly healthy. Now, all of a sudden, she¡¯s ill? If she was going to get sick, it would have happened right after the party, not dayster.¡±


    I??§Ö$§ä ¡é#¦Áp?¨º§ñs I§Ú galno¦Íels


    She fixed her eyes on Kenny. ¡°What¡¯s your take on this?¡±


    Kenny shrugged. ¡°You might be right, but Ethan and I visited her. She genuinely looked sick, like she might really be ill.¡±


    A faint smile crossed Brenna¡¯s lips as she nced at Ethan. ¡°So, what¡¯s your opinion?¡±


    A softugh came from Ethan. ¡°I promise she isn¡¯t pretending. Lately, she barely sleeps and is always anxious, and her blood pressure is through the roof. Her doctor, whom I trust, warned me that her blood vessels are pretty delicate. If she keeps stressing herself out, she could get seriously ill. I don¡¯t think she will really jump off the building, but¡­¡±


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 Chapter 892

    ?Chapter 892:


    ¡°I am worried she will get seriously sick.¡±


    Brenna acknowledged his concern with a thoughtful nod. ¡°I understand.¡± She shifted her attention to Kenny and Rosanna. ¡°Why don¡¯t you just date and not get married, just like Ethan and I?¡±


    Kenny and Rosanna exchanged a look. Rosanna seemed disappointed, while Kenny appeared anxious. Their expressions made it clear that they were dissatisfied with Brenna¡¯s suggestion.


    With a hesitant voice, Rosanna looked at Kenny. ¡°What if we just go and register our marriage in secret?¡±


    Kenny replied, ¡°You are a pilot in the military. You will need approval from your superiors to get married. Could we really keep something like that hidden?¡±


    A sigh slipped out as Rosanna¡¯s patience ran thin. Her mood grew heavier. ¡°Well, then, what¡¯s your n?¡±


    Kenny let out a weary breath. ¡°Let¡¯s just do what Brenna suggests. We¡¯ll date for a while and revisit the marriage questionter.¡±


    ¡°If we just do nothing, your mom will get her way!¡± Rosanna muttered in a low voice. Kenny, sitting beside her, heard her clearly.


    On the other side, Ethan acted as if he had not heard her. He reached for Brenna¡¯s hand. ¡°I want your family to see who I am, Brenna. But I heard your mother is already nning to introduce you to someone else to date. You need to promise you will not agree to meet him, alright?¡±


    With a sideways nce, Brenna replied, ¡°My mother is not serious about that; she would never actually set me up with anyone.¡±


    A doubtful look remained on Ethan¡¯s face. ¡°What if we secretly register our marriage and have a weddingter?¡±


    A huff escaped from Brenna as she shut down the idea. ¡°Not a chance. I am just twenty-two. I am way too young to get married. What if, in the future, you fall in love with someone else? Then I would have to deal with a divorce. That¡¯s not something I want.¡±


    The refusal hit Ethan hard, and his expression turned somber. He could not shake the feeling that Brenna¡¯s answer meant she did not love him deeply enough.


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    A heavy silence settled over him as he looked at Brenna with a hurt gaze.


    Brenna caught his look and couldn¡¯t help butugh. ¡°Come on, don¡¯t look at me like that.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s fingers slid gently along hers as he held her hand. ¡°Please, don¡¯t meet the man your mother wants to introduce to you. If he turns out better than me, I won¡¯t take it well.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about that. Since I¡¯m in a rtionship with you, I won¡¯t date anyone else. Just stop overthinking this.¡± Brenna patted his hand, her voice light but firm.


    The assurance in her tone seemed to lift Ethan¡¯s spirits. ¡°I believe you.¡±


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 Chapter 893

    ?Chapter 893:


    While their easy affection yed out in front of him, Kenny felt irritation simmer. He had invited them here to help him find a solution, not to witness this.


    Rosanna¡¯s chest tightened as she watched Ethan shower Brenna with attention. She turned to Kenny, her eyes filled with concern. ¡°If your mother threatens to harm herself just to split us up, what will you do? You¡¯ve always given in to her. I¡¯m afraid you won¡¯t stand up to her if things get tough.¡±


    Her rush to get married was driven by a fear that Kenny might give in to Elsa¡¯s demands and eventually start dating someone else.


    Looking down at the floor, Kenny struggled with guilt. His mother¡¯s recent hospitalization for high blood pressure was because of him. In the past, Ethan had been rebellious and often shed with their mother, but she had never fallen ill because of him. Yet, his actions had caused her hospitalization twice. He couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that he was a bad son.


    Kenny finally made up his mind. He held Rosanna¡¯s hand, his gaze filled with deep affection, mixed with reluctance, guilt, and a trace of pain. ¡°Rosanna, let¡¯s focus on dating for now and hold off on marriage talks until my mother¡¯s health improves.¡±


    Rosanna pulled her hand away, her face clouded with disappointment. She had meticulously nned everything¡ªsecretly arranging a wedding without notifying the Mitchell family and securing all the necessary permissions. Yet, Kenny remained indecisive, constantly fretting and seeking Ethan and Brenna¡¯s input on the matter. She believed he simply didn¡¯t want to marry her. Deep down, she felt that he was displeased with her for boldly disrupting his engagement ceremony with Minna.


    Brenna noticed Rosanna¡¯s eyes welling with tears, one soon trickling down her cheek. Sympathetic toward Rosanna, Brenna offered reassurance, saying, ¡°You could start by getting approval from your superiors. Once his mother recovers, you two can get married.¡±


    Rosanna, finding the suggestion practical, turned to Kenny. ¡°What do you think?¡±


    Already burdened with guilt, Kenny saw merit in the idea. ¡°That could work. I¡¯ll try to convince my mother over the next few days.¡±


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    Ethan, lounging casually, gave a slight nod and said, ¡°If she threatened to kill herself to manipte you, you can also do the same thing.¡±


    Kenny looked at Ethan as realization dawned. ¡°You¡¯re right. Why didn¡¯t I think of that before?¡± He chuckled, grasping Rosanna¡¯s hand again, his gaze brimming with optimism. ¡°Did you hear that? It¡¯s a brilliant n.¡±


    Rosanna, her tears giving way to a smile, was genuinely impressed by Ethan¡¯s suggestion. ¡°Thank you, Mr. Mitchell,¡± she said tentatively, unsure of how to address Ethan properly.


    ¡°You¡¯re Kenny¡¯s girlfriend; you can just call me Ethan,¡± Ethan said.


    Soon, their meal arrived, and the group of four began eating while chatting casually.


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 Chapter 894

    ?Chapter 894:


    At the hospital, Elsa had justpleted her IV drip. She longed to return home, but the doctor insisted she stay, leaving her no choice.


    ncing at her phone, Elsa noticed it was nearly nine.


    ¡°Those two troublemakers! Neither has bothered to visit me. Don¡¯t they know I¡¯m ill? Are they off with their girlfriends again, plotting behind my back?¡±


    Emmett, settledfortably on the sofa in the private hospital room, arranged several takeout containers on a small table and began unpacking them. ¡°Stop worrying so much. They are adults now. Let¡¯s stop meddling in their lives. Haven¡¯t you had enough of controlling them all these years? Aren¡¯t you exhausted? Come eat.¡±


    Elsa walked over and sat down in a nearby chair, her face etched with displeasure.


    ¡°Ethan was always defiant, and I¡¯m already used to that. But what about Kenny? Why is he acting up now, too? Everything I do is for his own good. He refused to get engaged to Minna¡ªfine, I¡¯ll admit I overstepped there.¡±


    Emmett handed her a fork, his expression calm. ¡°So you finally see you went too far?¡±


    Elsa¡¯s temper red. ¡°What kind of attitude is that? Weren¡¯t you backing me up back then? Now, you¡¯re acting like this is all my fault?¡±


    Emmett¡¯s patience snapped at her usation. ¡°Don¡¯t twist things. When you tried to force Kenny and Minna together, I was away on business. I had no clue you would do something so ridiculous.¡±


    ¡°So, it¡¯s all my fault now?¡± Elsa shot back, furious. ¡°You¡¯re my husband. When things go wrong, you¡¯re supposed to stand by me, not pin everything on me. You¡¯re unbelievable!¡±


    Emmett, finding her unreasonable, chose not to say anything more and focused on his meal.


    Elsa, irritated by his silence, eximed, ¡°Say something!¡±


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    ¡°If it¡¯s not your fault, then whose is it? Now, you¡¯re making another mistake. If our son finds someone decent he likes, we, as parents, should let him be.¡± Emmett couldn¡¯t stand Elsa¡¯s controlling nature. Their home had been full of constant arguments over the years because of it.


    ¡°What is decent about Rosanna? She had the audacity to disrupt Kenny¡¯s engagement ceremony. That¡¯s out of line! If I approve of her, what does that say about me? Would I have to listen to her in the future? Absolutely not! Rosanna is too reckless and disrespectful. I¡¯ll never ept her. Kenny can marry anyone but her.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re being unreasonable! You said the same about Ethan. With your attitude, no woman would want to join this family!¡± Emmett retorted.


    Too upset to eat, Elsa grabbed her phone and dialed Kenny. The call rang repeatedly before going to voicemail. Undeterred, she called again. Kenny answered the second time.


    ¡°Are you with Rosanna again?¡± Elsa asked as soon as the call was answered.


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 Chapter 895

    ?Chapter 895:


    With the speakerphone echoing his mother¡¯s sharp words, Kenny¡¯s brow furrowed. He cast a nervous nce at Rosanna, his cheeks flushed with shame. His mother had spoken without any consideration for his dignity.


    Rosanna responded by slipping her fingers into his, her eyes full of encouragement.


    Elsa¡¯s patience was wearing thin. ¡°Why aren¡¯t you answering me?¡±


    Taking a steadying breath, Kenny asked, ¡°Mom, why are you calling?¡±


    Instead of answering Elsa¡¯s question, he asked one of his own.


    Elsa saw straight through him, her voice sharp as ss. ¡°You¡¯re with Rosanna right now, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    Her tone was domineering as she continued in a loud voice, ¡°Just say it. Yes or no!¡±


    Embarrassment and unease washed over Kenny.


    Watching his difort grow, Rosanna frowned. He had always struggled to assert himself.


    She leaned in close and whispered to him, ¡°Tell her no.¡±


    Kenny lied, ¡°No, I¡¯m with Ethan.¡±


    That seemed to satisfy Elsa atst. She believed that Kenny wouldn¡¯t lie to her. Relief softened her voice. ¡°Kenny, you need to listen. Rosanna¡¯s too reckless for her own good. She¡¯s bound to lead you down the wrong path. Marry her, and she¡¯ll be the one calling all the shots at home. You won¡¯t get a word in. I can¡¯t let that happen. Break up with her, and I¡¯ll find someone better for you.¡±


    ¡°Mom, that¡¯s enough. I still need to talk with Ethan, so I¡¯ll have to hang up now.¡± Fear gnawed at Kenny¡ªhe didn¡¯t want Rosanna to hear any more of this. If she realized how unreasonable Elsa was, it would make reconciling in the future even harder.


    ¡°We¡¯re not done here. You know I¡¯m in the hospital. Why haven¡¯t you visited me?¡± Elsa reproached him, hoping to make hime care for her. That way, he wouldn¡¯t have time to spend with Rosanna.


    Kenny tried to exin, saying, ¡°I¡¯ve been busy.¡±


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    However, Elsa responded, ¡°What could possibly matter more than looking after me? Come here now.¡±


    ¡°Mom, I can¡¯t make it tonight. Work starts early tomorrow, and I have responsibilities I can¡¯t ignore. I need to get some rest.¡± With that, Kenny ended the call, frustration still simmering in his chest.


    Turning to Rosanna, he spoke in an apologetic tone. ¡°Don¡¯t take my mother¡¯s words to heart. My decision is made. Tomorrow marks the start of my duty, and you¡¯ll be returning to base. Chances are, we won¡¯t see much of each other for a while, but my mother won¡¯t cause trouble for you. Once our marriage application is approved by the military, we¡¯ll get married. No matter what my mother thinks, I will marry you.¡±


    A bright smile spread across Rosanna¡¯s face. Kenny¡¯s willingness to push back against his mother for the sake of their future made her feel pleased.


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 Chapter 896

    ?Chapter 896:


    She said, ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll file the application with my superiors as soon as I¡¯m back.¡±


    For Rosanna, Kenny¡¯s firm stand was all the reassurance she needed. At least he wasn¡¯t blindly yielding to Elsa; his determination meant their rtionship stood a chance.


    However, Brenna viewed things differently. She believed Kenny was too soft. Ethan, by contrast, wouldn¡¯t have bothered answering the call in the first ce.


    A quick nce passed between Brenna and Ethan, silent understanding settling as they turned their focus back to the meal.


    After a while, Ethan¡¯s phone lit up with an iing call. As a CEO, he was always busy with work, so frequent calls were normal. Brenna didn¡¯t mind and just continued eating.


    Seeing the caller ID, Ethan furrowed his brows. He stood up, stepped outside, and shut the door behind him before answering the call. ¡°Gracie.¡±


    A woman¡¯s voice came from the other end of the line. ¡°Ethan, I¡¯ll be arriving in Vand in three days as the CEO of the Wilson Group¡¯s new division there. That¡¯s your turf. Can you pick me up?¡±


    When Ethan heard that familiar voice, the image of a striking woman came to mind. Countlesste nights of them working together shed through his head. The Mitchell Group¡¯s sess in Norview wasrgely due to Gracie¡¯s support.


    Gracie¡¯s father led the Wilson Group, the most powerful financial empire in Norview, rivaling the might of Ethan¡¯spany.


    To Ethan, Gracie was an indispensable ally.


    ¡°Of course. Have you found somewhere to stay?¡± Ethan asked, his voice steady.


    ¡°Not yet. You know I avoid hotels¡ªtoo many strangers, never clean enough. I¡¯d rather stay at your ce, if that¡¯s alright.¡± Gracie¡¯s voice was pleasant and clear. She wasn¡¯t asking, but stating her request, leaving no room for refusal.


    A smile tugged at Ethan¡¯s lips. ¡°I own several properties. I¡¯ll make the arrangements and have you stay at one of them.¡±


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    ¡°Perfect. I¡¯ll send you my flight details. Don¡¯t forget to pick me up,¡± Gracie said before ending the call.


    When Ethan returned to the dining room, the smile remained on his face, one he hadn¡¯t even realized was there.


    Brenna raised an eyebrow. Ethan was usually all business, so seeing him smiling caught her off guard. ¡°Who were you on the phone with earlier that put such a smile on your face?¡±


    ¡°Just an old friend. I¡¯ll introduce her to you soon,¡± Ethan replied.


    Ethan hadn¡¯t even realized he was still smiling when he stepped into the room. Catching himself, he quicklyposed his expression and exined to Brenna, ¡°A friend from my early startup days ising here in three days.¡±


    Brenna didn¡¯t give it much thought. She assumed it was a male friend. Seeing that he was in such a good mood, she figured the person must be important to him.


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 Chapter 897

    ?Chapter 897:


    ¡°Make sure you give your friend a warm wee,¡± she said.


    Ethan noticed that she didn¡¯t ask whether the friend was a man or a woman. He thought it was considerate of her not to pry into the details.


    After dinner, he paid the bill and left with Brenna and the others.


    Outside, the city glittered beneath the glow of neon lights.


    The restaurant they had just left was upscale, the kind that attracted wealthy diners. There were always patrons who had drunk too much, hailing taxis, so many taxi drivers were waiting nearby for business.


    Just as Brenna and Ethan stepped out, amotion broke out near the entrance. Several hotel security guards were arguing with a driver.


    ¡°No parking here. Move along!¡± one guard barked, roughly shoving the driver.


    The driver, a man in his fifties with graying hair, raised a hand and pointed toward the other taxis parked nearby. ¡°Why can they wait here for passengers, but I can¡¯t?¡± he asked.


    ¡°You think you¡¯re the same as them? They¡¯ve paid their fees. They¡¯re allowed to be here.¡± The guard pped the driver¡¯s shoulder in mock sympathy. ¡°Look at you. Your hair¡¯s gone gray. Yet, you¡¯re still out here working. Don¡¯t you feel ashamed? A man your age ought to be retired.¡±


    Another guard joined in, saying, ¡°Why are you still driving a taxi at your age? If you want to pick up passengers here, you need to pay like every other taxi driver, understand?¡±


    ¡°But¡­ why?¡± The driver, Alec, pleaded. ¡°Young men, I¡¯m already old. Please don¡¯t make things harder for me. If I had any other way to survive, do you think I¡¯d still be out here, trying to make a living at my age? Just let me stay here. Please, have some pity.¡±


    Though Alec¡¯s words were humble, he was seething inside. The guards were humiliating him in public. These young men, barely out of school, were speaking to him like he was nothing. In the past, he would¡¯ve¡­


    Alec had once been quick to make them lose their jobs, but things were different now. He was struggling to make ends meet, so he bit back his anger. Still, something didn¡¯t sit right. He had beening to this spot for a month, and not once had anyone mentioned needing to pay a fee.


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    ¡°Young men, maybe you¡¯re mistaken. You¡¯re not with the taxipany or City management, so why are you collecting fees?¡± he said, his tone growing more assertive.


    Unexpectedly, one of the guards pped him hard across the face. Alec stumbled backward and collided with a nearby car before managing to steady himself.


    ¡°How could you hit me? I¡¯ll call the police!¡± Alec threatened.


    ¡°We¡¯re the security guards here,¡± one of the guards said, jabbing a finger against Alec¡¯s forehead with a smug expression. ¡°If you¡¯re causing trouble, it¡¯s our duty to act.¡±


    Alec felt utterly humiliated. His eyes red with rage as he stared at the guards. ¡°Fine, I¡¯m calling the police now!¡±


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 Chapter 898

    ?Chapter 898:


    He pulled out his phone, determined to report the abuse. But before he could press the call button, the same guard who had hit him lunged forward and smacked the phone from his hands. It hit the pavement with a sharp crack and broke.


    ¡°You¡­ You¡¯ve gone too far,¡± Alec said, seething.


    ¡°You really want to y tough?¡± one of the guards growled. ¡°Think calling the cops will help you? I¡¯ll beat you to death before they even show up!¡±


    Without waiting for a response, the two guards punched and kicked Alec, who copsed to the ground, groaning in pain.


    Brenna stood still on the steps, her expression cold as she watched the scene unfold.


    Ethan stood beside her, also watching. He recognized the man being beaten. It was Alec. He also knew Brenna disliked him, but even so, Ethan doubted she would want him to get beaten up like this.


    Without another word, Ethan marched forward, grabbed one of the guards by the cor, andnded a solid punch to the man¡¯s jaw.


    Before the second guard could react, Ethan shoved him back and threw quick punches to his ribs, sending him stumbling. Both guards hit the ground hard, groaning. Stunned, they looked up at Ethan.


    ¡°Who the hell are you?¡± one of them shouted. ¡°This is none of your business. Why are you meddling?¡±


    They staggered to their feet, ready to fight Ethan. But then, they took a closer look at his perfectly tailored suit, the kind that cost hundreds of thousands.


    Having worked at the restaurant long enough, they recognized wealth when they saw it. Realizing that Ethan was rich, their attitude quickly shifted, turning respectful.


    The taller guard cleared his throat and said, ¡°Sir, that man was causing trouble earlier. We were just trying to stop him.¡±


    Ethan scoffed, clearly unimpressed. ¡°Really? And what trouble did he cause?¡±


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    Brenna walked over and offered Alec a hand, lifting him off the pavement with barely a flicker of concern in her eyes. Her expression was cold.


    Alec looked up and finally realized who hade to his rescue. His feelings rushed to the surface, and tears poured down his cheeks. ¡°Brenna, it¡¯s you! I made such a fool of myself in front of you¡­¡± Alec choked out the words, mortified that Brenna had witnessed his humiliation. Memories of all the times he had tormented her shed through his mind. He was sure she thought he deserved every bit of this.


    But underneath his shame, a spark of excitement flickered. L¡¯s mother had been right¡ªying the victim and showing weakness could earn sympathy. Brenna seemed to be falling for it. Now, he could not help but feel a twisted gratitude toward the two guards who had hit him. If they hadn¡¯t done that, he never would have had the chance to win Brenna¡¯s pity.


    Instead of answering Alec, Brenna turned to the security guards with a cold stare. Her voice was firm. ¡°Tell me, what trouble did he cause? Who gave you the right to drive him away?¡±


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 Chapter 899

    ?Chapter 899:


    That look in her eyes made both guards tense up immediately. They didn¡¯t know who Ethan or Brenna were, but everything about their appearance suggested power and wealth. They were definitely people they couldn¡¯t afford to offend.


    ¡°We apologize, truly. This was a mistake on our part. Please do not hold it against us. We will apologize to this gentleman right away.¡±


    Ethan stepped forward, fixing the taller guard with a cold look. ¡°Are you still going to ask him to pay you?¡± he said in amanding tone.


    ¡°Absolutely not. This gentleman is wee to park here whenever he likes from now on.¡±


    The words came out with extra politeness, and his attitude was respectful. Still, behind that agreeable front, the guard was already plotting how to get back at the old man after Ethan and Brenna walked away.


    The guards knew that people like Brenna and Ethan were unlikely to show up here every day. From their behavior, it seemed they didn¡¯t care about the man very much.


    ¡°Sorry, really sorry.¡± The taller guard dragged his partner, bowing repeatedly to Ethan as they hurried away from the confrontation. Brenna had no interest in punishing them further; she just wanted them to stop beating Alec.


    ¡°Everything¡¯s settled, so we¡¯ll be on our way now.¡± She looked at Alec and spoke inly. She had no desire to stick around, not after all the misery Alec had caused her when she was a child.


    Dabbing at his tears, Alec didn¡¯t try to ask Brenna to stay. He only muttered, ¡°I just waited here for work, not even blocking the restaurant¡¯s entrance. Still, they picked on me. They even asked me to pay them for being here. I only earn about four hundred dors a day and have to paymission to the taxipany. If I also give the guards money, there won¡¯t be much left for me.¡±


    His voice trembled as he added, ¡°Brenna, you saw how things were for mest time. I don¡¯t even have enough money to buy a decent coat for my son this winter.¡± He kept a close eye on her reaction as he spoke, hoping for a flicker of sympathy.


    Yet, Brenna¡¯s face stayed frosty. She felt no urge to help him. If Alec truly cared about family, he would never have tossed Ruby and her children aside the moment he ran to L for shelter.


    Alec cared only for himself, and the way he kept acting helpless was nothing more than a scheme to squeeze money out of her.


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    Brenna even suspected that Alec had set up the entire scene with the guards just to win her sympathy.


    ¡°I¡¯m leaving.¡± Brenna walked away, and Ethan fell in beside her. Kenny and Rosanna, who had quietly observed everything from a distance, joined them as well.


    Alec stood there, watching them leave, his eyes shing with bitterness. ¡°All those years spent raising her, and this is what I get. Look at me¡ªbruised and battered, and she won¡¯t even bother to drive me to the hospital! So heartless!¡±


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 Chapter 900

    ?Chapter 900:


    The sight of Brenna climbing into Ethan¡¯s expensive car made his expression twist with even more resentment.


    Settled inside the car, Ethan looked at Brenna. ¡°Do you want me to help him?¡±


    Brenna paused for a moment. ¡°There¡¯s no need. He had iting. What I suffered as a kid because of him was far worse than what he went through today.¡±


    Her voice held a quiet calm, as if she were speaking about someone else¡¯s life.


    Ethan felt for her. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll stay out of it. He got what he deserved. But what about the rest of the Barrett family? I heard Mack and Ruby mistreated you before too. They are doing well now. Should I teach them a lesson for you?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t need you to do anything for now.¡± Brenna looked down, her eyes shadowed with a hint of sadness. ¡°What¡¯s done is done. The Barrett family has already lost everything, so I¡¯ll let the past go.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re too forgiving.¡± Ethan couldn¡¯t help but feel sorry for Brenna, sensing the old wounds still lingering beneath her calm exterior. ¡°Mack, his mother, and his sister are doing well now. And as for Alec, I doubt what happened today was coincidental.¡±


    He tightened his grip on his phone and gave Neville, who was driving, an order. ¡°Look into Alec for me.¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± Neville replied.


    Taking Brenna¡¯s hand, Ethan tried tofort her. ¡°Try not to let this bother you. Alec has always been crafty. He knew how to sway people when he was in business, and now, he¡¯s just using pity to get something from you. He said those things to you on purpose.¡±


    At the start of the week, Brenna stood at the grand gates of the Harper estate, waiting for Ethan. It was part of their routine; Ethan never missed the Monday senior management meetings at the Mitchell Group, so she was certain he would be going to thepany today. She thought he could drive her there.


    Time ticked by, and as the clock struck eight, there was still no sign of him. Growing impatient, she reached for her phone and dialed his number without hesitation.


    The call was answered almost immediately. ¡°Are you heading to the office today?¡± Brenna asked, her tone calm.


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    Ethan stood in a spacious, sunlit apartment that spanned across two thousand square feet. He was busy overseeing the arrangement of brand-new, untouched furniture, while workers moved around at hismand. He had bought this ce years ago.


    Back then, he had chosen it for convenience, as it was near hispany. But now, with Gracie¡¯s visit on the horizon, he decided the apartment needed a refresh. Gracie would be staying here.


    Although the furniture remained spotless, the overall aesthetic was far from what Gracie would appreciate. Justst night, he had arranged for a renovation team to update everything, changing the decor to a style that would better suit a woman¡¯s taste.


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 Chapter 901

    ?Chapter 901:


    Only the living room and bedroom walls needed fresh paint, and the workers promised to finish in three days. All the new materials were eco-friendly, ensuring the space would be ready as soon as the paint dried.


    Back in his early business struggles, Gracie¡¯s support had been invaluable. She had brought in vital investors and guided him through rough patches. Now, as she wasing for her own ambitions, Ethan felt it was only right to give her a warm wee. Gazing out over the city from the floor-to-ceiling windows, he spoke softly into the phone, ¡°I¡¯m not home right now. I won¡¯t be able to drive you to thepany.¡±


    Not a flicker of disappointment crossed Brenna¡¯s face. She didn¡¯t press him for an exnation. After all, even though Ethan lived in the same neighborhood, they didn¡¯t oftenmute together.


    Most mornings, Brenna would make her way to the Mitchell Group on her own, as Ethan¡¯s work often took him to branch offices or out of town.


    Brenna didn¡¯t overthink it and simply assumed Ethan was busy. ¡°That¡¯s fine. I¡¯ll drive myself,¡± she said, her voice calm and clear. As soon as the call ended, she went to the garage, slid into her car, and drove to work.


    By the time she reached the Mitchell Group building, the clock had passed nine. Morning traffic had thinned, yet the lobby remained lively. People in crisp suits bustled through the doors, some toting boxes, while others teamed up to load packages into the waiting elevators. ¡°Let¡¯s make sure nothing gets scratched,¡± cautioned one man in a navy suit, steadying a box as he followed a colleague inside.


    The stream of workers continued, each carrying something new. Brenna spotted stacks of office supplies among the deliveries. The sight made her wonder¡ªwas someone joining the upper ranks of the Mitchell Group?


    Brenna wasn¡¯t sure what was going on. She simply stood quietly, watching the flurry of activity.


    Therge elevator quickly filled up with people carrying items. Seeing that it was crowded, Brenna decided to take a different elevator.


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    When she reached her office, she found Lorna already finished with the morning tidying-up, carrying a cup of coffee.


    ¡°Good morning, Ms. Harper,¡± said Lorna, setting the cup gently on the desk. She gestured toward the nearby coffee table as she exined, ¡°I went ahead and opened yourtest packages.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s eyesnded on the packages¡ªgifts from business partners: delicacies from distant cities, fancy ornaments, bottles of perfume, and a few samples of new products.


    ¡°Alright, I see,¡± Brenna said. Usually, she checked each item herself, handing off snacks to the staff, keeping anything pretty for her office, and sending the rest down to storage. Lorna nodded and left.


    Just then, a knock sounded at the door. Thiago entered, carrying a sleek ck folder. He imed a seat across from her, then handed over the folder. ¡°There¡¯s a property out in the western suburbs. Seems like a great spot for an officeplex. The location is convenient for both of us. Take a look.¡±


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 Chapter 902

    ?Chapter 902:


    A quick scan of the documents told Brenna all she needed to know. ¡°The site looks promising, and there¡¯s plenty of space. Alright, let¡¯s sign up for the auction.¡±


    Thiago nodded before bringing up some elevator chatter. ¡°Did you catch the news? The Mitchell Group is gearing up for its tenth anniversary celebration.¡±


    Brenna shook her head. ¡°No, Ethan didn¡¯t tell me that.¡±


    Amusement danced across Thiago¡¯s face as he leaned back in his chair. ¡°You must really trust Ethan.¡±


    With a puzzled look, Brenna replied, ¡°How is apany anniversary rted to whether I trust him? It¡¯s apany event. All Ethan has to do is sign off on their ns, right?¡±


    Thiago shook his head resignedly. ¡°Honestly, I don¡¯t know what to do with you. You¡¯re so close to Ethan, yet he doesn¡¯t tell you anything. The tenth anniversary celebration is nothing special. The important thing is who¡¯s attending the event. The entire Mitchell Group is buzzing about it, and you¡¯re still in the dark.¡±


    With confusion etched across her face, Brenna asked, ¡°What exactly did you hear? Why do I get the feeling that this is a threat to me?¡± Holding her coffee, she took a slow sip, maintaining a calm demeanor. ¡°So, who¡¯s on the guest list for this tenth anniversary? Is there something I should be worried about?¡±


    A shadow passed over Thiago¡¯s expression. ¡°I had a feeling Ethan would keep you in the dark about this. Maybe you never realized, but when the Mitchell Group started out in Norview, three founders sat at the table. Ethan took the lion¡¯s share, handling things here, while the other two were minor yers, mostly taking care of matters in Norview.¡±


    A faint crease formed on Brenna¡¯s brow. ¡°I¡¯ve never really asked Ethan about the shareholders. I always figured he founded thepany on his own. I didn¡¯t even think there was a board.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a bit too trusting,¡± muttered Thiago, his tone edged with frustration. ¡°Do you even know who those other shareholders are? Looks like you¡¯ve been yed by Ethan, Brenna.¡±


    Slowly, Brenna set down her cup and leaned back in her chair, her face turning serious. She trusted Thiago to be honest; he never exaggerated. ¡°Honestly, I have no idea.¡±


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    ¡°You won¡¯t find many who know the full story. If you want the truth, ask Ernst. But let me share something I heard just this morning. One of those shareholders is Gracie Wilson, daughter of the CEO of the Wilson Group. She holds a ten percent stake in the Mitchell Group and was Ethan¡¯s right hand when thepany was still in its startup phase. More than that, she used to be his girlfriend.¡±


    The revtion left Brenna reeling. She blinked, trying to process it, and repeated, ¡°His girlfriend?¡±


    Thiago mmed his palm down on the table with a sharp thud. ¡°You probably think I¡¯m talking nonsense, but this isn¡¯t a rumor I pulled out of thin air. Everyone in the Mitchell Group¡¯s upper ranks has been talking about it. I even heard the details from a dinner with a few executives. People can¡¯t stop talking about Gracie. Her reputation for both beauty and talent precedes her. Word is, Ethan holds her in the highest regard. For this visit, he¡¯s gone all out, rallying thepany¡¯s leadership to greet her at the airport. He¡¯s making it clear how much Gracie¡¯s arrival means to him by orchestrating such an borate reception.¡±


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 Chapter 903

    ?Chapter 903:


    A heavy silence settled over Brenna. She fixed her gaze on the coffee in front of her, her mind wandering back tost night when Ethan had left to answer a call, only to return with a rare smile.


    So, the return of his first love had been the reason for his good mood at that time.


    ¡°She was his girlfriend in the past, but that doesn¡¯t necessarily mean anything now.¡± Despite saying that, Brenna couldn¡¯t help but wonder how far things had gone between Ethan and Gracie in the past.


    Even though she knew she should leave the past behind, a wave of unease settled deep in her heart.


    Noticing Brenna¡¯s troubled expression, Thiago said, ¡°You can wait before jumping to conclusions. But right now, don¡¯t be too trusting of Ethan.¡±


    Brenna nodded slightly, acknowledging his words. ¡°Give me your honest opinion. What¡¯s your take on this?¡±


    Thiago raised an eyebrow. ¡°You want my thoughts on what, exactly? Are we talking about Ethan or the Mitchell Group?¡±


    Rolling her eyes, Brenna responded, ¡°Don¡¯t y games. You know exactly what I mean.¡±


    With a softugh, Thiago said, ¡°Alright, you want to talk about Ethan. Nobody can deny his talent; he¡¯s ahead of the rest of us. I¡¯ve never heard any rumors about him and women, either. His secretarial team is full of stunning women, but not a single scandal has ever surfaced. Still, maybe he just doesn¡¯t find those women interesting enough. They¡¯re too ordinary to catch his eye.¡±


    After a pause, he added, ¡°You, on the other hand, caught his attention right away. He seems to like outstanding women.¡±


    Doubt began to creep in, but Brenna¡¯s trust in Ethan held firm. ¡°I don¡¯t think he¡¯d ever betray me. I believe in him.¡±


    She took a deep breath to steady her nerves before asking, ¡°So, who¡¯s the third shareholder?¡±


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    Thiago shook his head. ¡°That¡¯s the real mystery. Even the top people at Mitchell Group don¡¯t know that. Only Ethan and Gracie know that. I think even Ernst doesn¡¯t have a clue.¡±


    Pulling out her phone, Brenna quickly typed a message to Ernst, seeking answers.


    Ernst¡¯s reply came swiftly.


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t around during his early years in the business. He was out of the country then. I¡¯ve never heard him mention any other shareholders. Want me to ask him for you?¡±


    ¡°No need,¡± Brenna replied without hesitation.


    A heavy sigh left her lips. ¡°Just as I suspected, Ernst knows nothing about this.¡±


    ¡°If he dares betray you, I¡¯ll make him pay,¡± Thiago said coldly. ¡°Be cautious of Gracie, and don¡¯t trust Ethan blindly.¡±


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 Chapter 904

    ?Chapter 904:


    Brenna¡¯s thoughts swirled in chaos. The new information made it impossible for her to focus on her work the entire morning.


    Eventually, she decided to stop overthinking and face the issue head-on. Her questions needed answers, and only Ethan could provide them. Leaving her office, she stepped into the elevator, her heart pounding as she rode straight up to Ethan¡¯s floor.


    Stepping out of the elevator, Brenna immediately sensed the unusual hush that filled the corridor. Instead of the usual chatter, the secretarial staff were glued to their monitors, working with focus.


    Not a trace of the buzz about Gracie seemed to touch this floor, though the rest of the building had been alive with whispers. It was as if no one here had caught wind of thetest rumors. Brenna couldn¡¯t tell if they were genuinely unaware of the matter or simply too absorbed in their tasks to engage in idle chatter.


    ni nced over and offered Brenna a polite smile before walking toward her.


    ¡°Ms. Harper, is there anything you need? Mr. Mitchell is tied up in a meeting right now,¡± said ni.


    Ethan¡¯s feelings for Brenna weren¡¯t a secret to ni. He had told her to notify him right away if Brenna ever showed up, no matter what he was in the middle of.


    Brenna subtly nced at the CEO¡¯s office. The door was closed. Without missing a beat, she replied, keeping her voice calm, ¡°I just wanted to see how things were going up here.¡±


    ni noticed that Brenna seemed reluctant to share what was truly on her mind.


    ¡°If you¡¯d like, I can let the CEO know you¡¯re here. He specifically asked to be informed whenever you visit,¡± ni said gently.


    Brenna managed a small, appreciative smile. ¡°That¡¯s not necessary. I just heard something about yourpany¡¯s tenth anniversary celebration.¡±


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    Cheerfully, ni nodded. ¡°We¡¯ve been nning it for a couple of months. The event is set for January 1st.¡±


    Normally, Brenna preferred speaking with Ethan directly, but now, she found herself trying to get information from ni.


    She continued, ¡°On my way up, I noticed people carrying supplies. Is everything for the celebration?¡±


    A knowing look crossed ni¡¯s face, as though she understood Brenna¡¯s true purpose. ¡°Some of it, yes. The rest is for our new vice president¡¯s office.¡±


    It felt strange for Brenna to be fishing for information like this, but with Ethan unavable, she had little choice.


    ¡°So, thepany is bringing in another vice president? There are already three, and all of them are exceptionally capable. Why hire another one?¡± Brenna asked.


    ni now fully understood what Brenna was really asking about. The matter wasn¡¯t something Ethan had meant to hide from her.


    ni decided to share what Ethan had instructed. ¡°The new vice president is actually one of the original founders. Gracie Wilson, from the Wilson Group, is taking the position. The CEO asked us to set up her office right here on this floor.¡±


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 Chapter 905

    ?Chapter 905:


    Though Brenna kept a calm exterior, a wave of irritation surged within her. The Mitchell Group building had plenty of space on other levels. Of all the floors he could have chosen, Ethan had to let Gracie use the same floor as him. Brenna felt ufortable about it.


    ¡°Thanks for your help. Since Ethan is tied up, I¡¯ll leave for now. No need to mention I stopped by. I¡¯ll speak with him myself another time,¡± Brenna said.


    Waving Brenna off with a bright smile, ni returned to her desk. Curiosity red in the secretarial department as her colleagues wasted no time crowding around her.


    ¡°Did Ms. Harper need something important?¡±


    ¡°What were you talking about just now?¡±


    ni replied, ¡°She had questions about Gracie.¡±


    ¡°Really? What could make Ms. Harper so interested in Gracie?¡±


    ¡°I bet Gracie is stunning. Otherwise, why would Ms. Harper be curious about her?¡±


    ¡°That must be it! Why else would Ms. Harper stop by to ask about her?¡±


    The secretarial department buzzed with discussions.


    ¡°Do you think Gracie and Mr. Mitchell had some history? Maybe they dated before?¡±


    ¡°Best not to gossip about the CEO¡¯s personal life. He really doesn¡¯t like that.¡±


    Meanwhile, Brenna returned to her office, feeling more frustrated than before. When lunchtime rolled around, Thiago invited her to join him in the cafeteria.


    Part of her had expected to see Ethan there, but he wasn¡¯t in the cafeteria.


    Brenna messaged Ethan.


    ¡°Why aren¡¯t you here for lunch? Still working?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m eating out. Are you in the cafeteria?¡± Ethan replied.


    ¡°Yeah, I stopped by your office earlier, but you were busy. It¡¯s nothing urgent. Just focus on your work.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s a lot on my te for the next few days. I probably won¡¯t have time to meet,¡± Ethan replied.


    ¡°That¡¯s fine.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s gaze lingered on their brief conversation, her mind racing with questions. What could be keeping him so busy? Was he preparing for Gracie¡¯s arrival? Was he about to rekindle an old romance?


    Advice from her mother echoed in her mind. Her mother had told her to take her time and observe Ethan, not rushing to take their rtionship to the next level. A sense of relief washed over Brenna. She hadn¡¯t rushed into anything she might regret.


    If Gracie really was Ethan¡¯s former lover and they were rekindling their old me, she could still walk away from him without feeling too hurt now.


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 Chapter 906

    ?Chapter 906:


    ¡°Try not to stress over it. Maybe Ethan¡¯s rtionship with Gracie is more like what we have¡ªbusiness partners, confidants, and cofounders. You and I are also very close, right?¡± Thiago leaned back in his seat, attempting tofort Brenna.


    A resigned smile flickered across Brenna¡¯s lips. ¡°Funny how you question him and then defend him in the same breath.¡±


    Still, just hearing Thiago¡¯s words helped Brenna regain some perspective, the tension in her chest beginning to ease.


    She said, ¡°You make a good point. Letting my imagination run wild won¡¯t help. I trust Ethan. If he still had feelings for Gracie, he wouldn¡¯t be with me now.¡±


    With a shrug, Thiago exined, ¡°I¡¯m not taking his side, just telling the truth. Still, I¡¯ll have someone keep tabs on him, just in case.¡±


    Warmth spread through Brenna at his words. Thiago always seemed to know exactly what she needed.


    Nearby, the sound of another group¡¯s chatter caught Brenna¡¯s attention. Three women and a man sat huddled around a table nearby.


    ¡°I don¡¯t get it. The CEO reserves the entire 99th floor for himself. Not even the vice presidents set foot up there. So why does the new founder suddenly have an office on that floor?¡±


    ¡°Milton told me the new founder is both a beauty and the heir to Norview¡¯s biggest financial empire. Her status is different.¡±


    ¡°Really? If that¡¯s the case, I wouldn¡¯t be surprised if Mr. Mitchell¡¯s rtionship with Ms. Harper changes.¡±


    ¡°I think you¡¯re right.¡±


    The man in the group shed his phone, photos lighting up the screen. ¡°You have to see these¡ªshe really is gorgeous!¡±


    Brenna turned just in time to catch a glimpse of a striking woman in the photo. Curiosity piqued, she pulled out her phone and searched for information about Gracie.


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    Gracie¡¯s resume was impressive; she earned a master¡¯s degree from a prestigious university at twenty, held senior management positions in her family business, and had shown outstanding performance in thepany.


    ¡°She¡¯s a force to be reckoned with,¡± Thiago remarked.


    Any trace of a smile faded from Brenna¡¯s face. ¡°Her achievements are exceptional. Even mine can¡¯tpare to that.¡±


    The silence from Ethan stretched into a second day, but Brenna refused to dwell on it. After all, going three or even five days without talking wasn¡¯t so unusual for them. She saw no reason to worry about it.


    That afternoon, Brenna found herself surrounded by a sea of people, all waiting for the elevator as the building emptied for the day. When the elevator arrived, people rushed in. The space was packed. Brenna hesitated but decided to step inside.


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 Chapter 907

    ?Chapter 907:


    An rm pierced the tense silence. The elevator had exceeded its limit. ¡°Miss, we¡¯re rushing to the airport to pick someone up, and time¡¯s tight. Could you catch the next one?¡± the man in a gray suit at the front politely exined to Brenna.


    Stepping out without protest, Brenna said, ¡°Okay.¡±


    Recognition flickered as she realized the man was Milton, one of the Mitchell Group¡¯s vice presidents and Ethan¡¯s trusted confidant. She had seen his profile in Ethan¡¯s office before.


    Thiago¡¯s frown deepened as he watched the scene. ¡°Ethan really has thepany¡¯s top executives weing Gracie. He certainly values her.¡±


    A chill crept into Brenna¡¯s expression, and she felt down.


    A few steps away, Tommy and Joe, along with a handful of colleagues from the Night Studio, waited for the elevator.


    Tommy spoke up, his tone firm as he challenged Thiago¡¯s perspective. ¡°That¡¯s reading too much into it. The fact that the whole team¡¯s going shows this is strictly business. If Ethan¡¯s there, it¡¯s for thepany, not for Gracie personally. Wouldn¡¯t you agree, Brenna?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s thoughts were in disarray. Usually, she wouldn¡¯t miss such a simple point. But this time, she needed Tommy to point that out for her.


    How could she have missed something so obvious?


    Relief washed over her, lifting her spirits. ¡°Right, if Ethan were sneaking around to meet her alone, then I¡¯d have reason to worry.¡±


    Thiago scoffed. ¡°Or maybe he¡¯s just using the executives as a cover. That way, he can meet Gracie without worry.¡±


    Tommy retorted, ¡°That makes no sense. If Mr. Mitchell wanted a private moment with Gracie, why bother dragging half the team along?¡±


    Thiago shot Tommy a pointed look. ¡°Just wait. After the airport and the dinner, I bet Ethan takes it a step further. He¡¯ll walk Gracie right up to her hotel room, maybe even take her to his ce.¡±


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    A spike of anxiety twisted in Brenna¡¯s chest. Thiago¡¯s scenarios sounded extreme, yet she knew he had people keeping tabs on Ethan.


    Had he discovered something?


    Brenna asked, ¡°Why are you saying that?¡±


    ¡°Just wait. Don¡¯t go to bed early tonight. I have something to show you,¡± Thiago replied.


    Down in the underground parking lot, Thiago turned to Brenna. ¡°What¡¯s the n? Are we going to keep an eye on Ethan and Gracie?¡±


    ¡°No. Thend auction takes ce tomorrow. We should get some rest tonight and prepare for it. The Russell Corporation and the Wagner Group are both eager to acquire it, so thepetition is fierce. Let¡¯s not get distracted by trivial matters,¡± Brenna answered calmly.


    A faint smirk crossed Thiago¡¯s face as he stepped closer. ¡°Sure. Still, I¡¯ll arrange for someone to keep an eye on them. You¡¯ll know right away if anything pops up.¡±


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 Chapter 908

    ?Chapter 908:


    Brenna gave him a pointed look. ¡°Why are you so invested in this?¡±


    Thiago chuckled. ¡°Don¡¯t you want to know what¡¯s going on? I¡¯m only looking out for you. I remember my first meeting with Ethan. He looked ready to beat me up. Now his ex has resurfaced. I want to see if he¡¯ll tell you everything on his own. If he dares to hurt you, I won¡¯t let him off.¡±


    Brenna understood that he was still holding a grudge.


    She said, ¡°Suit yourself. I¡¯m not interested. I promised Ellie we¡¯d have dinner tonight.¡±


    Thiago gave a small nod. That left him with only Patrick forpany that evening. A quiet sigh slipped out as he walked away, feeling a bit overlooked. He was only keeping an eye on Ethan for Brenna¡¯s sake, but she didn¡¯t seem to appreciate his gesture.


    Shaking his head, Thiago slid into his car and pulled out of the parking lot.


    Later, at a bustling restaurant, Brenna and Ellie made their way along the buffet, tes in hand, scanning the spread for their favorites.


    As Ellie nced over, she saw Brenna stacking her te with multiple slices of steak and raised an eyebrow.


    ¡°Hey! Are you nning to take all the steak for yourself?¡± she asked.


    Ellie¡¯s yful jab snapped Brenna out of her thoughts. Realizing how much steak she had piled on her te, she hurried to put most of it back.


    She managed a smile at Ellie.


    ¡°You seem distracted. Are you worried that Ethan and Gracie might drink too much tonight, and something might happen between them?¡± Ellie asked, not bothering to sugarcoat it. ¡°If you¡¯re worried about that, why not go see for yourself?¡±


    Brenna moved down the buffet line at a slow pace, picking out food, lost in thought. She said, ¡°I¡¯m not doing that. Why would I bother going just to make myself feel worse?¡±


    After making her final choices, Brenna headed back to the table. Ellie soon joined her.


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    ¡°You¡¯ve fallen for Ethan,¡± Ellie said, a spark of curiosity and mischief in her eyes.


    Without skipping a beat, Brenna shot back, ¡°No way. Me? Fall for a man? That¡¯s impossible.¡±


    Ellie was quick with her answer. ¡°Your whole face and the way you¡¯re acting now say it all. You¡¯ve fallen head over heels for Ethan.¡±


    ¡°Impossible. I¡­¡± Brenna¡¯s words trailed off as it dawned on her that she hadn¡¯t been herselftely. She¡¯d been slipping up at work more than usual, something both Tommy and Joe hadmented on more than once. ¡°How could I possibly have feelings for him? All I know is Ethan¡¯s reliable. Every time I¡¯m in trouble, he¡¯s the one who steps up to help. Honestly, I think he¡¯s a good candidate for marriage. But that doesn¡¯t mean I¡¯m in love with him.¡±


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 Chapter 909

    ?Chapter 909:


    She thought for a moment and then said, ¡°Is this what it feels like to fall in love?¡±


    Ellie let out a softugh. ¡°You¡¯re in love with him, whether you admit it or not!¡±


    Brenna was still unsure. ¡°Really?¡±


    Ellie looked at Brenna. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Gracie is only his business partner. Ethan had his whole executive team there at the airport and even brought them along for dinner. That shows that he doesn¡¯t want to have a private moment with her. Quit letting your thoughts spiral.¡±


    Brenna managed a small smile. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll take your advice. No more overthinking.¡±


    After dinner, the two friends stepped out of the restaurant. Brenna made her way home, took a shower, and curled up in bed. With her phone in hand, she scrolled aimlessly, her mind wandering back to Ethan. Was he with Gracie now? When would he finally have time for dinner with her?


    She flicked through a few videos, quickly losing interest and moving on to the next one.


    Brenna stared at her phone, captivated by the video ying out on the screen. A gorgeous woman stepped through the airport doors, wrapped in an elegant sapphire wool coat. Cheers and apuse rose from the crowd as a man in a ck trench coat walked up to her, presenting her with a bouquet before pulling her into a warm embrace.


    That man was Ethan. His entire face softened with a gentle smile, one that radiated a warmth she rarely saw in him. At work, he almost always appeared cold.


    At the office, he rarely smiled, even in front of the three vice presidents and two special assistants. To Brenna, it was obvious¡ªEthan treated Gracie differently, with much more enthusiasm than he showed others.


    Momentster, the footage shifted to a sleek line of luxury cars pulling away from the airport, eventuallying to a halt outside the Imperial Bar. Ethan stepped out first, walking around to personally open the car door for Gracie.


    Brenna lost count of how many times she had watched the video. Each viewing deepened her sense that Ethan¡¯s enthusiasm toward Gracie was out of character.


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    Still, she knew Ethan wasn¡¯t overly enthusiastic¡ªhe simply treated Gracie with a warmth he didn¡¯t extend to other women.


    If this wereing from other men, it wouldn¡¯t raise any eyebrows. Weing an old friend with flowers and a warm embrace waspletely normal. Sharing a drink to celebrate a reunion was just as typical.


    Brenna kept telling herself that this was normal.


    Almost instinctively, she navigated to thements section beneath the video.


    Onement, which had garnered the most attention, read: ¡°Ethan is the richest man alive; why is he so enthusiastic toward this woman? Is there something between them?¡±


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 Chapter 910

    ?Chapter 910:


    Thement had the most likes and replies, though many people were criticizing thementer.


    ¡°Your mind¡¯s in the gutter. If there was anything improper between them, would he show up with a crowd to greet her at the airport? He would have gone solo and booked a hotel room in secret. Don¡¯t twist the situation!¡±


    ¡°Ethan is not like that. You¡¯re just ndering him!¡±


    As Brenna scrolled through hundreds ofments, a sense of calm washed over her. If strangers online could see Ethan¡¯s true character, why should she question him?


    Unable to sleep, she kept watching videos, stumbling across a few featuring Ethan and Gracie. It dawned on her that Gracie was in Vand to take up the position of CEO of the Wilson Group¡¯s local division, not to join the Mitchell Group.


    Her spirits lifted.


    The next morning, Brenna geared up to drive to work. As she stepped outside, a car horn red. She spotted Ethan¡¯s car parked at her gate, with him standing beside it.


    Approaching him, Brenna maintained her usual demeanor, studying his face for any hint of unease. Ethan, impably dressed, met her gaze with his usualposed expression.


    ¡°I¡¯m not heading to the office today. Looks like we¡¯re not going the same way,¡± Brenna said.


    ¡°Where are you off to? Need any help?¡± Ethan asked, his curiosity genuine. He had been swampedtely, wrapping up a major deal with Norview¡¯s new mob boss, which had left him no time for meals with Brenna.


    ¡°No. I¡¯m heading to Blue g Trading Center to bid on a plot ofnd.¡± Casually, she asked, ¡°Have you eaten breakfast?¡±


    Ethan shook his head. ¡°Not yet. I¡¯ll grab something at the cafeteria. Thatnd you¡¯re eyeing, it¡¯s a hot spot in the tech district, perfect formercial or residential development. A lot ofpanies are after it. If you need extra funding, just let me know.¡±


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    ¡°Okay, thanks,¡± Brenna replied, heading to the garage. She slid into her car and drove off.


    A wave of relief washed over her. Ethan¡¯s calm expression told her that he hadn¡¯t done anything inappropriate with Gracie; they were merely friends.


    Brenna and Thiago arrived at the trading center nearly at the same time. The auction deposit was already paid, so they only needed to pick up the bidding number.


    Inside the auction hall, Brenna noticed the crowd, with plenty of familiar faces among theirpetitors.


    Denis and Isabe were there, along with Jayceon¡¯s father, Rosie, Maxley, and representatives from several prominent Shirie-based firms.


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 Chapter 911

    ?Chapter 911:


    At least a hundredpanies were vying for the same piece ofnd.


    ¡°Well, look who it is!¡± Isabe smirked upon spotting Brenna. ¡°Are you here on behalf of the Harper Group or your smallpany?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s none of your business,¡± Brenna shot back, her distaste for Isabe growing as she saw her cozying up to Denis.


    Isabe said, ¡°I look at the bigpanies here today with substantial power. Even though you¡¯re the daughter of the Harper family, your tinypany probably doesn¡¯t pull in enough topete here.¡± She scoffed, clearly looking down on Brenna.


    Then, a thought struck her. ¡°Are you bidding with the Harper Group¡¯s money? Or is your boyfriend footing the bill for you?¡±


    Brenna settled into a seat beside Isabe, her face impassive, ignoring Isabe.


    Isabe continued, her voice sharp and taunting, ¡°Did I guess it right? It must feel nice to have such powerful backing.¡±


    Her words carried, loud enough for nearby bidders to overhear, yet no one said anything. After all, as long as Brenna had money, she could bid, and they couldn¡¯t control her.


    Irked by Isabe¡¯s smug attitude, Brenna shot back, ¡°And why are you here today? Hoping Denis is snapping up thisnd as a present for you?¡± She recalled something her mother had mentioned during breakfast. ¡°I heard Denis is tying the knot soon. Is this piece ofnd his gift to you?¡±


    Isabe¡¯s expression soured instantly, her eyes narrowing into a fierce re. Denis was indeed getting married soon, but not to her; he was set to marry the younger sister of Shirie¡¯s new mob boss.


    Isabe¡¯splexion turned ashen as she bit her lip, fighting back tears.


    The news about Denis¡¯ wedding to that woman was supposed to be a secret. She had invested so much effort tracking down the identity of the woman Denis was about to marry. How could Brenna have figured it out before her?


    A circle of strangers was looking at her now, their eyes filled with everything from pity to thinly veiled ridicule. Never in her life had she felt this deeply humiliated.


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    Had she lost to a woman like Brenna¡ªa wealthy woman with power and beauty¡ªshe might have understood her defeat.


    However, that was not the case. Denis¡¯ soon-to-be bride turned out to be a woman with none of those qualities. She was in, overweight, and older than Isabe.


    Isabe couldn¡¯t ept this.


    She had followed Denis secretly and seen the woman. She could not help but feel appalled by the woman he had chosen, especially since Denis never used to show interest in that type of woman before. Seeing Denis wrap his arm around that woman,ughing beside her, and even kissing her in public felt like a punch to the gut.


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 Chapter 912

    ?Chapter 912:


    Being defeated by such a woman was uneptable.


    While Denis might not have rivaled Ethan in height or looks, his charm was undeniable.


    No logic could exin Denis¡¯ choice of a woman like that. Isabe could only chalk it up to greed. Denis must be marrying that woman for her money!


    Thinking of this made Isabe¡¯s heart ache. Losing to someone so unremarkable was almostughable.


    Her re fell hard on Brenna, and she refused to let herself appear weak. She said to Denis, ¡°Denis, say something. Let everyone know you want to buy thisnd for me.¡±


    At that moment, Denis was distracted by his phone, reading a message from Judy Mendoza, the person he was about to marry.


    ¡°Honey, I heard you want to buy a piece ofnd for me! I am so touched. I love you. I will go to the auction now. Wait for me. I want to share this exciting moment with you.¡±


    The contents of the message were a mystery to Brenna, but she noticed the way Denis stiffened as he read it. He then nced around the auction hall, eyeing every exit.


    His concern now was getting Isabe away before Judy made an appearance. If those two crossed paths, Judy would definitely make a scene.


    ¡°Just leave. I don¡¯t need you by my side today,¡± Denis said urgently. It wasn¡¯t Isabe¡¯s safety he was worried about. What really scared him was the thought of Judy doubting his devotion and calling off the wedding. ¡°Hurry up and leave.¡±


    Tension sharpened Denis¡¯ voice as he urged Isabe, though caution held him back from being too blunt. He dreaded the thought of her using him of cheating and causing another dramatic scene. ¡°Just say that you want to buy thend for me. Everyone¡¯s staring at me, even Brenna. I¡¯m begging you, don¡¯t make me embarrassed. Don¡¯t you care about me?¡±


    Isabe was on the verge of tears.


    Denis¡¯ patience wore thin. The idea that someone might discover his uing wedding to Judy unsettled him. He thought no one knew about it.


    Losing his temper, he shoved Isabe and barked, ¡°Don¡¯t push me. Leave before you make me lose my temper.¡±


    Eyes glued to his phone, Denis quickly fired off a message to Judy.


    ¡°Sweetheart, I just want to give you a surprise. Don¡¯te here. Once I get thend, I¡¯ll make our rtionship public; everyone will be envious.¡±


    A sly smile flickered across Brenna¡¯s face as she taunted Isabe, ¡°Clearly, he¡¯s not buying thend for you. Otherwise, he would have said so.¡±


    Standing her ground, Isabe retorted, ¡°That¡¯s not true!¡±


    Even without Denis¡¯ support, Isabe clung to her pride with fierce determination.


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 Chapter 913

    ?Chapter 913:


    ¡°Nonsense!¡±


    Just then, arge figure appeared at the entrance, her high heels clicking loudly across the auction hall.


    Everyone turned as a woman stormed in, nked by bodyguards. She was wearing thick makeup, but still appeared in.


    Every step she took seemed burdened by her weight.


    Her chubby feet pressed painfully against the tight leather of her pointed shoes, while the white dress hugged her body so tightly it looked like it might tear.


    Brenna estimated she weighed at least 200 pounds, heavier than what her mother had mentioned.


    Judy strode forward and pped Isabe. The force of the p sent Isabe crashing to the floor. ¡°How dare you steal my man?¡±


    Judy kicked Isabe in the stomach, a vicious blow that forced a strangled cry from Isabe¡¯s lips as she curled in on herself.


    Burning with humiliation, Isabe couldn¡¯t believe she¡¯d lost to someone like Judy. She turned to Denis and spat, ¡°What is it about this woman that you find appealing?¡±


    Judy¡¯s face twisted with fury. She nted her fists on her hips and shouted at Isabe, ¡°You dare to disrespect me? Do you know who I am?¡± She turned to her bodyguards. ¡°Beat her up!¡±


    At hermand, the bodyguards in ck suits marched forward. Without hesitation, they pounced on Isabe, hitting her without restraint.


    To Judy, nothing was more infuriating than a woman who looked better than her. Isabe had made the unforgivable mistake of getting close to Denis, fueling Judy¡¯s already zing fury.


    ¡°Hit her harder!¡± she eximed.


    ¡°Ah! Stop! Ah!¡±


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    Isabe¡¯s screams tore through the silent hall. Onlookers watched, but not one dared intervene.


    Meanwhile, Denis stood by Judy¡¯s side, gently coaxing her in a low voice, ¡°Please don¡¯t let this get to you. She¡¯s been clinging to me; I¡¯ve tried everything to shake her off. She is so shameless¡­¡±


    Each word hit Isabe like a p. Her body throbbed with pain, but it was the betrayal that hurt her the most.


    The bodyguards showed no mercy. She felt as though her bones were snapping one by one. Through gritted teeth, she cried out, ¡°Make it stop¡­ Denis, how can you just stand there and let them do this to me?¡± Annoyed, Denisshed out at her with a kick of his own. He¡¯d given her a chance to leave earlier, but she had ignored it. Now, she had only herself to me for this.


    Brenna stared down at Isabe, her expression frosty. The sight of Isabe lying limp on the floor struck her as pitiful. She spoke tly, ¡°Denis, the auction¡¯s about to start. Is this really the ce for this kind of scene?¡±


    In fact, Denis felt a slight twinge of sympathy for Isabe, but there was not much he could do.


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 Chapter 914

    ?Chapter 914:


    With a mock expression of disdain, Denis waved toward the bodyguards. ¡°Get her out of here. We¡¯re not putting on a sideshow. People came here to bid, not to watch this.¡±


    Isabe, barely conscious, couldn¡¯t protest. The bodyguards dragged her away.


    Denis turned back to Judy. ¡°Darling, why are you here? I had something special nned for you, but now that you¡¯re here, the surprise is ruined.¡±


    He pulled Judy into his arms and then wiped the chair Isabe had used over and over before letting her sit.


    Brenna exchanged a nce with Thiago. His raised brow said it all¡ªhe was just as baffled by Denis¡¯ taste in women as she was.


    Judy, beaming like a schoolgirl, clung to Denis and squealed, ¡°You were really going to surprise me? This gift is too much; it¡¯s making me shy!¡±


    The two whispered affectionately, with Denis showering Judy with kisses as if no one else existed. Brenna shifted ufortably; their intimacy was too much for her to witness. Her eyes scanned the room. The auction hall, built to amodate around two hundred guests, was nearly full, with only a few seats remaining unimed.


    Wanting to keep her distance from Denis and Judy, Brenna spotted four vacant seats near the back. She and Thiago quietly made their way over and sat down.


    Once seated, Brenna felt a lot better.


    ¡°You still have the mood to sit here bidding onnd?¡± A woman in a mask and oversized sunsses suddenly spoke to Brenna, her voice full of mockery. ¡°If I were you, I¡¯d be running off to see what Ethan¡¯s up to.¡±


    The voice sounded familiar, but Brenna couldn¡¯t quite ce it. Whoever the woman was, she clearly knew a lot about her situation. It had to be someone she knew, and the hostility in her words made it clear she wasn¡¯t an ally.


    Brenna eyed the fully veiled woman. ¡°Hiding under all that? What¡¯s the matter, too ashamed to show your face?¡±


    Thiago nced over with a furrowed brow, his expression showing his anger.


    I??€$? ¡é??t??§ñ? ?¦Ç ga?n?¦Í¦Ål?.c??


    Tina, furious that Brenna didn¡¯t recognize her, yanked off her sunsses and pulled down her mask. ¡°Seriously, Brenna? You can¡¯t even recognize me?¡±


    Brenna looked at her with a cold, poised nce. ¡°Ah, it¡¯s you. I was wondering who would hide their face like that. Are you too ashamed to show your face in public?¡±


    Her words not only upset Tina but also angered the two men sitting next to her. They shot Brenna sharp, furious looks, and if it weren¡¯t for the crowd around them, they might have already attacked her. They were Tina¡¯s father and brother.


    ¡°You¡¯re the one who should be ashamed!¡± Tina shrieked, her voice rising as she locked eyes with Brenna. Then, with a glint of vindictive satisfaction, she raised her voice for everyone to hear. ¡°I heard Mr. Mitchell¡¯s first love, Gracie, is back in the country. He picked her upte at night, took her drinking, and then brought her to his home. Brenna, Mr. Mitchell will break up with you soon.¡±


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 Chapter 915

    ?Chapter 915:


    Brenna had already seen the footage of Ethan and Gracie at the bar, so that part wasn¡¯t news. But Gracie staying at Ethan¡¯s ce? That was new to her.


    ¡°Stop spreading rumors without evidence,¡± Brenna replied firmly.


    Tina smirked. ¡°Oh, I¡¯ve got evidence. My brother lives near Mr. Mitchell. He saw the whole thing¡ªEthan personally opened the car door for Gracie and walked her inside. They stayed there for quite some time.¡±


    Tina made sure to raise her voice, ensuring everyone caught her words as she spoke to Brenna, ¡°My brother witnessed Mr. Mitchell himself walking Miss Wilson into the house. He even greeted Mr. Mitchell at that time.¡±


    A sneer broke across her face as she added, ¡°Does that shock you? With all your looks and the family name you boast about, you thought you stood out. But look at the situation now. You¡¯ve been overshadowed by Miss Wilson.¡±


    Tina looked at Brenna with disdain. ¡°You grew up with the Barretts, who never had much standing. You can¡¯tpare to Miss Wilson. She¡¯s the daughter of the Wilson family, whose business runs all of Norview. You two are worlds apart. Only a woman from a top global corporation can truly stand next to Mr. Mitchell. But don¡¯t feel too bad. There are still people in Shirie at your level. Want me to set you up with one?¡±


    Unbothered by the spectacle, Brenna fixed Tina with a cold stare and asked, ¡°Are you worried about me?¡±


    Ethan had weed Gracie back just the night before, and by morning, the news had spread through Shirie¡¯s elite circles. Everyone was waiting to see Brenna¡¯s reaction.


    Brenna quickly sent Ethan a message on her phone.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry about her.¡± Jordy¡¯s voice cut through the tension as he strolled over in a sharp blue suit, hands in his pockets. He cast Tina a look of hostility. ¡°Miss Russell, it¡¯s normal for a man like Ethan to have many women by his side. Besides, you don¡¯t really know what Ethan and Gracie did inside that house. You¡¯re just specting.¡±


    Annoyance shed in Tina¡¯s eyes. ¡°Why don¡¯t you just stay out of this?¡±


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    Jordy gave her a pointed look and replied, ¡°Brenna and I used to be together. I won¡¯t sit by and let anyone bully her. Even if Ethan breaks up with her, she still has me.¡±


    Taking his ce at Brenna¡¯s side, Jordy defended her.


    Ever since he joined forces with Denis, his business had expanded exponentially. What was once a small firm had turned into a juggernaut, with assets in the tens of billions. He was just a step away from breaking into the ranks of Shirie¡¯s richest elite.


    There was no doubt in his mind¡ªhe was now fit to stand beside Brenna.


    In fact, Jordy saw himself as nearly an equal to Ethan.


    Tina gave Jordy a dismissive look, barely acknowledging him. Brenna had little patience for Jordy¡¯s act and sharply said, ¡°Do yourself a favor and stay away from me.¡±


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 Chapter 916

    ?Chapter 916:


    A ttering smile spread across Jordy¡¯s face as he said, ¡°Rx, Brenna. Should Ethan leave you, I¡¯ll stay by your side. He might act like a perfect gentleman, but beneath that surface, he¡¯s just like the rest. Just look at how he¡¯s pampered Gracie since her arrival¡ªpicking her up at the airport, taking her out for dinner, and personally escorting her home. Maybe they¡¯ve already slept together.¡±


    Frustration boiled over in Brenna, and she snapped, ¡°Get out of my sight!¡± Jordy seemed to be defending her on the surface, but his words were as harsh as Tina¡¯s.


    Tina¡¯sughter rang out. ¡°A man and a woman staying alone in the same room for over an hour¡­ So much could happen.¡± Brenna felt sick just hearing this.


    Thiago couldn¡¯t stand it anymore. ¡°Watch your mouth. Stop spreading rumors!¡±


    Tina rolled her eyes. ¡°I¡¯m not spreading rumors. They spent all that time together behind closed doors, and both of them were tipsy. Isn¡¯t it obvious what they did? Stop denying the truth.¡±


    A look of disdain settled on Tina¡¯s face as she stared at Brenna. There had been a time when she believed Ethan¡¯s devotion to Brenna was unshakeable. But now, Ethan had fallen for someone else, and Brenna would soon be abandoned. Tina believed Brenna had iting.


    At that moment, Brenna¡¯s phone rang. It was Ethan calling.


    Holding up her screen so Tina could see, she said, ¡°Sorry to ruin your fun, but Ethan¡¯s calling me now.¡±


    Tina let out a mocking sound. ¡°He¡¯s probably calling to break up with you.¡±


    Brenna answered the call and put it on speaker.


    ¡°Sweetheart, has the auction started?¡± Ethan¡¯s voice drifted through the hall, warm and unmistakably tender.


    A hush fell over the crowd. Everyone was wondering if Ethan would break up with Brenna.


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    ¡°It will start in about five minutes,¡± Brenna replied, a smile brightening her face.


    Tina rolled her eyes again. ¡°You¡¯re still putting on a brave front? Stop fooling yourself.¡±


    Not far away, Rosie was busy on the phone, her voice clipped as she gave clear orders to security to save Isabe and rush her to the hospital. Never in her wildest dreams had she expected Denis to betray her so quickly, scrambling to align with a new mob boss.


    The man who had lived under the thumb of both Jade and Viper for years had finally found his moment. With Viper¡¯s downfall, he seized the opportunity to take control of Viper¡¯s old territory, challenge Denis, and ultimately force him to kneel.


    Throughout all this, Rosie had done everything she could to help Denis. But this new mob boss proved more powerful and ruthless. Even the people Rosie brought from Plicea couldn¡¯t match him. The power Denis gained from Jade was slowly being stripped away, including the money Denis had gotten with Brenna¡¯s help.


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 Chapter 917

    ?Chapter 917:


    Denis¡¯ current power had almost returned to what it was before Jade¡¯s incident, leaving his family the weakest among the four major families. ording to Jordy, with a little more effort, he could even rece Denis.


    Rosie barely managed to hide her disgust as she watched Denis and Judy cozy up. Judy, the mob boss¡¯ sister, was just as cruel. How could Denis cave so easily to a woman he didn¡¯t even like? Contempt welled up inside Rosie as she thought about it. She didn¡¯t think Denis even deserved to call himself a man.


    Originally, Rosie had intended to prop Denis up, helping him be powerful enough to confront the Harper Group and, if luck held, even shake the Mitchell Group. What a waste of effort. Denis turned out to be a disappointment.


    The more Rosie thought about it, the angrier she became. Now, Denis was grinning as he talked to Judy, kissing her plump face, which made Rosie feel sick.


    Frustration lingered in Rosie¡¯s chest. Why was it so difficult for her to deal with Brenna and the Harper family?


    Meanwhile, Tina was still arguing with Brenna.


    All of Rosie¡¯s remaining hopes hung on Tina. She had wanted to use Tina to turn the Russell family against the Harper family and Ethan. But now, she realized that Tina was really stupid.


    Rosie had lost hope in Tina, thinking it would be remarkable if Tina could even win an argument against Brenna.


    Tina¡¯s mood darkened when she heard Ethan¡¯s gentle voice through Brenna¡¯s phone. Her thoughts wandered back to that humiliating night; she had been naked in Ethan¡¯s room, trying to seduce him, only to be tossed out by him. It was a deep humiliation she dared not share with anyone.


    Since she couldn¡¯t have Ethan, she decided to destroy him.


    ¡°Quit acting like some gentleman, Ethan. You¡¯re nothing but a two-faced flirt. Drop the act already!¡± Tina shouted into Brenna¡¯s phone without restraint.


    On the other end, Ethan was sitting in Jayceon¡¯s office. Jayceon had made significant strides in his recovery; his thoughts were sharp, his work routine had returned to normal, although his legs kept him confined to a wheelchair. Ethan furrowed his brows when he heard Tina¡¯s words. ¡°Tina? I¡¯m talking to my girlfriend. This is none of your business.¡±


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    Turning his gaze to Ethan, Jayceon said, ¡°You can talk to Tina however you want; don¡¯t mind me. I¡¯vepletely cut ties with the Russell family.¡±


    Ethan looked at Jayceon. Jayceon¡¯s injury had resulted from thebined forces of the Russell family, who had tried to bring him down, leaving him thoroughly disappointed in his family.


    Meanwhile, Tina made sure her outrage was public, raising her voice. ¡°Tell everyone, Ethan¡ªwhat did you and Gracie dost night at your ce? Did you two have sex? How many times did you go at it in an hour?¡±


    Even Ethan, used to all sorts of chaos, was stunned by how low Tina had gone. His face hardened, his gaze turning cold. He wondered if Brenna thought the same.


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 Chapter 918

    ?Chapter 918:


    ¡°Tina, either back up your usations or stop talking nonsense. When have I ever been alone with Gracie for an hour?¡± he said sharply.


    A smug tone crept into Tina¡¯s voice. ¡°Don¡¯t think you can fool me. My brother saw you bringing Gracie to your homest night after eight.¡± Since Ethan had rejected and embarrassed her, Tina had decided it was payback time¡ªshe¡¯d drag him and Brenna down and ruin their reputations for good.


    Ethan was furious. He grabbed theptop from Jayceon and typed quickly, his mood souring by the second.


    ¡°What¡¯s your point? Just because Gracie and I walked into the same house, you think something happened between us? Unlike you, I don¡¯t strip down and throw myself at someone to seduce them without shame.¡±


    Ethan, despite being a CEO, was actually great at arguing with people. Growing up, whenever Elsa handed down punishments, Ethan always managed to twist the conversation in his favor, finding every loophole and clever excuse. Those days had sharpened his debating skills into a formidable weapon.


    ¡°Surprising, isn¡¯t it, Miss Russell? You seem to have endless curiosity about my personal life. Surely you have better things to do than stick your nose where it doesn¡¯t belong. What I do with Gracie is none of your business.¡± Ethan realized he was now arguing with Tina over the phone. This wasn¡¯t like him.


    But Tina¡¯s words had been harsh, and they made him angry. He was determined to make her pay.


    Though he wasn¡¯t a top hacker in the world, he had enough skill to worm his way into the auctionpany¡¯swork. Disying whatever content he pleased on their big screen was easy for him. He forwarded a video from his mobile to Jayceon¡¯sputer, then arranged for it to take over the auction hall¡¯s electronic screen.


    ¡°Strictly speaking, Miss Russell, I owe you no exnations,¡± he said. ¡°Still, I¡¯d hate for my girlfriend to get the wrong idea. I only stopped by Gracie¡¯s cest night for five minutes, with servants present the entire time. Even if I wanted something to happen between Gracie and me, there was hardly any opportunity.¡±


    A yful note crept into his voice. ¡°I know everyone is itching for a scandal. I don¡¯t want to disappoint you. Keep your eyes on the screen; I¡¯ve prepared a little show for you all!¡±


    Brenna had already put the call on speakerphone, and those around her heard Ethan¡¯s words clearly. Everyone instinctively turned to the big screen.


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    The footage on the screen began with an empty hotel hallway¡ªstill and unremarkable. Suddenly, a woman,pletely unclothed, was tossed out of a room, stumbling right into the camera¡¯s view.


    Her smooth skin was on full disy, and her naked body left nothing to the imagination. Anger was written all over her face as she shouted something at the closed door. Theck of audio left the crowd guessing at her words.


    Still, everyone quickly recognized the woman¡ªTina.


    An eruption of noise followed. ¡°Wow!¡± some men eximed. Tina¡¯s figure was striking, capturing a lot of attention.


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 Chapter 919

    ?Chapter 919:


    Their eyes remained fixed on the looped video. More than a few men struggled to look away.


    Brenna rolled her eyes, her expression cold. She knew Ethan was behind this. This meant Ethan had already seen the video before.


    ¡°Miss Russell, who was it that tossed you out?¡± Brenna had to continue the act, even though she knew it wasn¡¯t right to kick someone when they were down. However, Tina had brought this upon herself.


    Humiliation burned on Tina¡¯s face, mingling with anger, while the entire Russell family wilted under the weight of public shame. Tina¡¯s father wished he could disappear.


    ¡°Turn off that screen!¡±


    ¡°Shut it down, now!¡±


    Tina¡¯s father and brother shouted hoarsely at the staff on stage. The employees, initially frozen, found themselves watching the scandalous video y repeatedly before the Russell family¡¯s outrage snapped them into action. They attempted to turn off the screen.


    But the screen malfunctioned, remaining unresponsive no matter how they pressed the remote¡¯s buttons. Manual attempts at theputer also proved useless.


    On and on, the humiliating footage yed.


    ¡°So shameless!¡± Judy¡¯s gaze shot toward Denis, who kept his eyes glued to the screen. She reached over and twisted his head away, her grip firm. ¡°Stop watching!¡±


    She turned her fury on Tina. ¡°No wonder you used Mr. Mitchell of messing around. It turns out you are the same type of person you just talked about¡ªtrying to seduce someone and getting tossed out. Don¡¯t you feel ashamed? You¡¯re pathetic. Get out!¡±


    Judy didn¡¯t even need to say anything for Tina to feel the urge to leave. But the footage wouldn¡¯t stop. If she ran now, who could tell how many more times everyone would see her like that? But if she stayed, she¡¯d continue to be ridiculed.


    Tina was stuck in a dilemma.


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    Tina¡¯s brother charged onto the stage, pounding the screen with his fists until it went ck. Seeing that, Tina fled the scene.


    Nobody from the staff bothered to chase her down. Instead, someone calmly said to her brother, ¡°Sir, you broke our equipment. You need topensate us.¡±


    ¡°Fine, send the bill. The Russell family can afford to pay!¡± he snapped.


    Returning to his seat, Tina¡¯s brother shot Brenna a venomous re. ¡°Miss Harper, was it really worth going this far? Arguments happen, but humiliating my sister this way is unforgivable. The Russell family won¡¯t let this slide.¡±


    Unfazed, Brenna sat down calmly.


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 Chapter 920

    Chapter 920:


    Thiago remained where he was, hands still in his pockets. ¡°Alright, Mr. Russell. Come at us whenever you like. We¡¯ll be ready.¡±


    Thiago¡¯s eyes flicked to Tina¡¯s father and brother, his tone mocking. ¡°Wasn¡¯t it Ethan who talked about a surprise on the phone? So whysh out at Brenna? Seems like Ethan scares you, so you take it out on a girl instead. The Russell family sure has guts!¡±


    Indignation darkened both men¡¯s faces. ¡°We will not let Ethan off easily!¡± Tina¡¯s father snapped, fury leaking from every word.


    A huff of anger escaped him before he settled into his chair.


    Thiago also sat down, then tossed a remark Brenna¡¯s way. ¡°The Russell family members¡ªall of them are cowards and fools.¡±


    Not far off, Rosie¡¯s mood was a storm; frustration etched deep lines across her face. Were it not for her n to bid on property today, she would have marched out and scolded Tina. How could Tina be so stupid?


    Business finally took center stage as the auction got underway. Thankfully, every guest already held a booklet listing the items, so the broken electronic screen wasn¡¯t an issue.


    The auctioneer¡¯s voice rose above the crowd, announcing today¡¯s offering: 692 acres ofnd, split into a dozen lots. Thergest¡ª127 acres¡ªcame with a hefty opening price of four billion.


    Brenna only wanted a piece ofnd that was big enough for an office building, so such arge plot didn¡¯t interest her. She watched from the sidelines while the bidding war raged. Every new offer had to jump by at least 10 million.


    The hall was packed, with at least 200 people, all representing differentpanies. Initially, over thirtypaniespeted for the plot.


    Prices shot skyward, climbing to eighteen billion, forcing the smaller yers to back out one by one.


    When the dust settled, just three contenders remained: the Russells, the Wagners, and Brenna.


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    While Brenna didn¡¯t need thend for herself, thest thing she wanted was to let the Russells walk away with a bargain. If they managed to win, she¡¯d see to it that it cost them dearly.


    ¡°20 billion!¡± Brenna¡¯s voice rang out as she ced a new bid, raising the stakes.


    A sharp turn of Denis¡¯s head brought his disbelief to Brenna. ¡°Have you lost your mind? Do you even have that kind of money?¡±


    While he was aware of her recent windfall¡ªover thirty billionnding in her ounts¡ªhe couldn¡¯t believe she¡¯d actually pay so much for this deal.


    Brenna dismissed him with a calm look, her gaze drifting to where Tina¡¯s father sat. Just as expected, he quickly countered, pushing the price up by 10 million.


    A sly smile yed on Brenna¡¯s lips. ¡°What¡¯s with the tiny bump, Mr. Russell? Do you not have enough money for this?¡±


    A re shot her way from Tina¡¯s father, but Brenna didn¡¯t care. Intent on securing thend for Judy, Denis wasted no time, boldly raising his offer to 21 billion.


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    Message from Noah: Have a great weekend dear ones. God loves you and Noah wishes you all the best. (? ?? ? ¨C ? ) ?


    .

 Chapter 921

    ?Chapter 921:


    All eyes turned to the Russell family, tension ratcheting up with every heartbeat. The 127-acre plot was now worth 21 billion, the price soaring to unprecedented heights in Shirie¡¯s history. Few people could afford such a sum.


    Brenna said, ¡°You are really rich, willing to spend so much on this, Mr. Wagner.¡±


    Tina¡¯s father spoke up, unable to hide his annoyance. ¡°You¡¯ve driven the price into the stratosphere. Do you have that much money? What happens when you win and can¡¯t pay up?¡±


    With a swift gesture, Brenna pulled out her phone and disyed the recent transaction for him to see. ¡°Take a look. Ethan just sent me ten billion. If I ever run out of money, he said I only need to ask him for more.¡±


    The Russell family members¡¯ tempers red at the sight. Securing this parcel was crucial¡ªit offered bothmercial and residential potential, and its central location promised windfall profits. With their family in turmoil and their standing among the top four threatened, this was theirst chance to stay relevant. Only a project of this scale could support the Russell Corporation. If they didn¡¯t get it, the Russell family would no longer be one of the four most powerful families here.


    Grinding his teeth, Tina¡¯s father spat out his bid, ¡°22 billion!¡±


    A scowl darkened his features as he shot furious looks at both Brenna and Denis, believing that they wouldn¡¯t bid higher.


    Just as he had expected, Brenna set down her bidding paddle and withdrew from the contest.


    Leaning closer to Judy, Denis tried to reason with her. ¡°Let¡¯s try for the 110-acre plot. It¡¯s almost asrge, and the site is excellent. What do you think, love?¡±


    Even though Judy was known for her extravagance, she understood their limits. Denis simply couldn¡¯t afford to bid higher.


    Wearing a smile, she answered, ¡°Whatever you decide, dear.¡± The Russell family won thergest piece ofnd at a high price of 22 billion, but they were not pleased. They knew Brenna had deliberately driven the price up, only to pull out at the critical moment.


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    Bidding resumed for the next lot, another hotly contested 110 acres. Brenna didn¡¯t participate in the bid this time. Denis managed to secure the plot for 13 billion.


    Patience proved worthwhile for Brenna. By the time the dust settled, she snagged a modest but valuable 30-acre plot for just 2.7 billion. She finished the paperwork, stepped out of Blue g Trading Center, and spotted Tina still waiting by the gate.


    ¡°Miss Russell, haven¡¯t you caused enough of a scene today?¡± Brenna strode right up to her, making it clear she had no intention of dodging a confrontation.


    A furious re shot from Tina as she said, ¡°Brenna, I swear I¡¯ll make you pay! You humiliated me on purpose, didn¡¯t you?¡± She lunged at Brenna, ready to p her in the face.


    Brenna dodged easily, causing Tina to miss and fall to the ground. Judy, who trailed behind Denis, took in the chaos and rolled her eyes. ¡°Why is that shameless woman still here?¡±


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 Chapter 922

    ?Chapter 922:


    Wasting no time, Judy marched over, straddled Tina, and started pping her. ¡°How dare you seduce my man?¡±


    Tina¡¯s eyes were filled with indignation as she asked, ¡°When did I ever try to seduce your man?¡±


    A snort escaped Judy. ¡°Please. You strutted around naked in that video, and he couldn¡¯t tear his gaze away from your body. You were trying to seduce him!¡±


    Shock and rage shed across Judy¡¯s face, her fury almost tangible in the air around her. Earlier, before the auction started, everyone¡¯s attention had snapped to the screen as a video of Tina, naked, flickered to life. From her seat, Judy had caught Denis¡¯ stare, his eyes wide and unblinking as they were glued to the footage.


    Denis had clearly been captivated, even getting aroused while watching the video.


    Judy had reached over to touch him, barely believing how hard he was. In all their intimacy together, Denis had never gotten aroused this quickly in her presence.


    But now, a short video¡ªbarely half a minute long¡ªhad him hard easily.


    A knot twisted in Judy¡¯s chest. Did this mean she wasn¡¯t attractive enough?


    The anger burning inside Judy was intense. At first, she hadn¡¯t realized that the woman engaged in an argument with Brenna was the same one featured in the humiliating clip. Only afterward did the realization hit her.


    Had she known earlier, she would have smashed Tina¡¯s face right then and there.


    ¡°You shameless bitch!¡± Judy spat, her voice venomous as she struck Tina. Her size gave her power, and it wasn¡¯t long before Tina¡¯s face puffed up.


    ¡°I never made him look! Why are you ming me?¡± Tina screamed pitifully, blood streaming down her nose as tears mingled with it. Judy¡¯s weight was heavy, and Tina¡¯s fragile body felt like it might be crushed beneath her.


    ¡°Still talking back?¡± Judy roared, her fist knocking a tooth from Tina¡¯s mouth. What infuriated her even more was how Tina¡¯s chest still drew attention even now. Judy gripped her chest fiercely, squeezing with a viciousness that could cause real harm.


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    Tina shrieked, desperately raising her hands to shield herself.


    ¡°You got surgery done, didn¡¯t you?¡± Judy taunted, sneering. ¡°No wonder they¡¯re so big. You¡¯re disgusting!¡± She didn¡¯t let up, her grip merciless. ¡°You like seducing men so much, huh? I¡¯ll ruin you, make sure no man ever gives you another nce! Let¡¯s see who you can seduce once I¡¯m done with you. Women like you disgust me the most.¡±


    Each scream from Tina was desperate.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t get any surgery done! They¡¯re real, I swear¡ªplease, stop!¡± The pain was excruciating.


    Watching nearby, Brenna frowned deeply. Judy¡¯s cruelty felt excessive. Denis was clearly the one at fault, openly staring at that scandalous video, yet Judy was punishing Tina instead. She was being unreasonable.


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 Chapter 923

    ?Chapter 923:


    Still, deep down, Brenna couldn¡¯t ignore the fact that Tina had brought some of this on herself¡ªshe had tried to seduce Ethan, after all.


    Elsewhere, the Russell family members took their time, calmly filling out paperwork with the auction staff. As their business wrapped up and they made their way out, they heard Tina¡¯s piercing cries. For a moment, none of them recognized her voice, as she had never screamed like this before.


    It wasn¡¯t until they hurried closer that the truth was revealed. There, in a heart-wrenching disy, Tinay battered and nearly unrecognizable, crying in unbearable pain.


    ¡°Damn it! Who did this?¡± Davin roared, furious, lunging forward to shove Judy away. But his effort proved futile against her massive frame.


    ¡°Have you lost your mind?¡± Colden intervened sternly, maintainingposure despite the chaos. As the head of the family and the CEO of Russell Corporation, he refrained from physical confrontation and said to Judy, ¡°Let my daughter go now!¡±


    Their interventionsted only moments before a sudden rush of bodyguards in ck sunsses surrounded them. With practiced efficiency, the bodyguards seized Colden and Davin, tossing both men aside without warning.


    The impact sent both men crashing to the ground. Colden, age working against him, stayed down, barely moving.


    Panic gripped Davin as he scrambled to his father¡¯s side. ¡°Dad! Are you alright?¡±


    He could hardly think, staring at his father¡¯s motionless form and feeling a surge of dread. Anger bubbled over, and he shot a re at his own bodyguards. ¡°Why are you just standing there? Get over there and save Tina, now!¡±


    The Russell family had brought many bodyguards, about thirty in total. At Davin¡¯smand, they rushed forward, shing with Judy¡¯s bodyguards in a chaotic fight.


    Still, the Russell family¡¯s bodyguards were quickly outmatched by Judy¡¯s men. Judy¡¯s bodyguards fought with people nearly every day, and they were more skilled than the Russell family¡¯s.


    In less than thirty seconds, all the Russell bodyguards were lying on the ground, groaning in pain.


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    No one could recognize Tina at that point. Her face was so swollen that her features were nearly invisible.


    Brenna clicked her tongue. ¡°This is an absolute mess.¡±


    Standing on the sidelines, Denis grimaced, almost feeling Tina¡¯s pain himself. Once Judy¡¯s temper seemed to subside, he walked over, his voice gentle. ¡°Sweetheart, she¡¯s not worth it. Don¡¯t let her upset you. Let¡¯s leave. Just look at the state she¡¯s in. I wouldn¡¯t spare her another nce.¡±


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 Chapter 924

    ?Chapter 924:


    Judy rose from where she had pinned Tina, her face softening. She looked at Denis and smiled sweetly. ¡°Honey, you have to be careful around women like her. They¡¯re shameless creatures who will only ruin men¡¯s lives. Promise me you¡¯ll avoid her kind.¡±


    Eager to please her, Denis nodded. ¡°Of course. You¡¯re absolutely right. Let¡¯s get out of here. She¡¯s not worth a moment more of our time.¡±


    Meanwhile, Davin managed to help Colden back to his feet. Together, they blocked Judy¡¯s path. Colden, his voice trembling with rage, said, ¡°You really think you can assault a member of our family and just leave like this?¡±


    The Russell family could not match Ethan¡¯s fortune or his military ties. The Mitchell Group¡¯s security team was made up of veterans, and Ethan¡¯s personal bodyguards were former elite special forces members¡ªformidable individuals.


    Still, the Russell family¡¯s bodyguards were all professional security personnel with great skills.


    But today, in just a few minutes, every Russell bodyguard had been brought down with ease by Judy¡¯s bodyguards.


    Both Colden and Davin were shocked by this, unable to process how Clive¡ªa neer in the criminal underworldmanded such overwhelming force. His bodyguards were incredibly strong.


    Generations of business had given the Russells massive influence in Shirie, where even their smallest actions sent ripples across the city. Suffering such a public defeat was beyond humiliating.


    They would not let this matter slide easily. Today would be the day they showed Judy the price of crossing the Russell family. How could a woman like her dare to challenge their family? She clearly had no idea who she was up against.


    Davin slid his phone back into his pocket, his tone sharp and threatening. ¡°Miss Mendoza, enough of this. You attacked my daughter for no reason. Get on your knees and apologize right now, or I¡¯ll involve the police. Let¡¯s see who is more powerful¡ªyour men or the police.¡±


    Judy showed not a flicker of fear. For her, this was nothing more than another bump in a life full of real danger. Together with her brother, she had survived violence and death many times. She believed the empty warnings from the Russells carried no weight.


    L?t§Öst ch¦Ápt?rs ??n g??l§ßov?ls.§ã§à??


    ¡°Nobody from the Diamond Gang runs from a fight,¡± she scoffed. ¡°Spare me the empty threats. If you¡¯ve got the guts, fight us now.¡±


    Colden¡¯s patience snapped as he faced her stubborn defiance. ¡°I¡¯m not interested in fighting. I just want to know what gave you the right to attack my daughter. You owe us an apology, in and simple!¡±


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 Chapter 925

    ?Chapter 925:


    Judy only snorted, her confidence spilling over. ¡°I don¡¯t need a reason to hit someone. If I don¡¯t like them, I hit them. Got a problem with that? You can try to hit me back.¡±


    ¡°You¡­¡± Colden was so enraged that his head ached.


    Seeing that, Judy sauntered off,pletely unshaken.


    Tina didn¡¯t move a muscle, lying motionless until Judy had left. Then, she began to cry. But as soon as she tried to cry, pain ripped through her battered face. Barely a whimper escaped before she mped her mouth shut, terrified that another cry might bring even more pain.


    Her skin burned, and every breath sent stabbing pain through her chest.


    Brenna¡¯s gaze was cold when she looked at Tina. Whatever pity she might have felt was overshadowed by a sense of satisfaction. She believed Tina had brought this upon herself.


    Pulling out her phone, Brenna snapped a series of photos of Tina¡ªnine in total¡ªthen put the device away, ready to leave.


    Tina, barely able to keep her swollen eyes open, caught Brenna snapping the pictures. Hatred red up in her. ¡°Brenna, your boyfriend¡¯s already seen me without clothes. Doesn¡¯t it disgust you to be with him?¡±


    A ripple ofughter slipped from Brenna. ¡°Not really. You were the one who was thrown out naked. Many people saw your naked body. You should be ashamed. Whoever ends up with you in the future is really pitiful.¡±


    Without missing a beat, Davin stormed forward, his pride stung from the earlier humiliation at Judy¡¯s hands. He raised his voice tosh out at Brenna.


    ¡°Brenna, you better watch what you say! Ethan has seen my sister naked, so he needs to marry her. You can¡¯t marry him anymore.¡±


    ¡°Is that so? Then should every man in that auction hall marry your sister?¡± Brenna said sarcastically. ¡°After all, they all saw the video of her naked body. But she could only marry one man; I wonder who she¡¯ll pick.¡±


    She remembered how Amy had made things difficult for her before. She didn¡¯t like the Russell family at all. Not a single member of that family was a good person.


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    Selling Colden the medicine now felt like a mistake she wished she hadn¡¯t made.


    Colden hadn¡¯t forgotten about that either. He still resented how Brenna had made things difficult for him over the medicine. He had begged her to sell it to him. Who did she think she was?


    ¡°Brenna, one more word out of you, and you won¡¯t be able to walk away unscathed,¡± he said, convinced that even though he couldn¡¯t handle Judy, he could teach Brenna a lesson with ease.


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 Chapter 926

    ?Chapter 926:


    Colden red at Brenna, then looked at his bodyguards, who had just recovered from the fight earlier. He believed they could easily handle a young woman like Brenna.


    At Colden¡¯s signal, the bodyguards closed in, surrounding Brenna and Thiago.


    ¡°Kneel and apologize to us, or you¡¯ll die here tonight,¡± Colden said. It finally clicked for Brenna¡ªTina had clearly inherited her foolishness from her father.


    ¡°Do you truly think you can harm me without fearing retribution from both the Harper family and Ethan?¡± Brenna said, unfazed. ¡°Mr. Russell, if you are upset with Judy, confront her directly. Don¡¯t take it out on me. Do you think I¡¯m an easy target?¡±


    With a cold tone, Thiago added, ¡°Mr. Russell, Judy humiliated you, and now you want to take it out on us to feel better?¡±


    ¡°Dad.¡± Stepping forward withposure, Davin addressed his father. ¡°Miss Harper has nothing to do with what happened. Let her go.¡±


    Lowering his voice, Davin leaned in closer, urgency in his tone. ¡°Dealing with her is simple, but that will only offend the Harper family and Ethan. We can¡¯t afford to do that.¡±


    A heavy silence fell as Colden¡¯s expression darkened. Davin¡¯s logic was sound, and he knew it better than anyone. Swallowing the sting of defeat, Colden remained silent.


    Today had dealt him a bitter lesson in humiliation.


    Thiago moved to Brenna¡¯s side and quietly guided her toward the exit. Watching Tina struggle to her feet with the help of the bodyguards, Colden¡¯s irritation boiled over. ¡°Did you not already get your chance to leave earlier? Why are you still hanging around?¡±


    Tina faltered, unable to form an answer. Anger churned inside her. She had plotted to humiliate Brenna in front of everyone. She had wanted to strip Brenna naked, take photos of her body, and post them online, making Ethan beg her to take them down. But nothing had gone as nned; Judy¡¯s arrival had ruined everything.


    With her face throbbing and pain shooting through every bone, Tina could barely open her mouth. She felt utterly aggrieved.


    Davin reached out to calm Colden¡¯s temper. ¡°Dad, give her a break. She¡¯s in pretty bad shape now. Let me get her to the hospital first.¡±


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    At the hospital, Rosie hurried into Isabe¡¯s room.


    Inside, Ruby sat by Isabe¡¯s bedside, gently holding a cold pack to the swelling on her cheek. ¡°That bitch! Look what she did to your face. If I ever see her again, I will make her pay!¡±


    Rosie¡¯s heart skipped at the sight of Isabe¡¯s battered face. Judy and her bodyguards had clearly shown no mercy.


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 Chapter 927

    Chapter 927:


    Isabe was receiving IV treatment, her face covered in bruises and swelling. Fortunately, the injuries were not life-threatening.


    Tears spilled over as Isabe looked at Rosie. ¡°You have to help me! Judy went too far! If your people hadn¡¯t shown up in time, I might have died.¡±


    Rosie offered a sympathetic sigh, though her thoughts drifted to Denis. Isabe¡¯s condition mattered, but her real concern was whether Isabe still held sway over Denis and whether Denis could still be used by her.


    ¡°Spineless, that¡¯s what Denis is. Falling for someone as fat and ugly as Judy¡ªit makes me sick.¡± Rosie¡¯s voice dripped with disappointment. Denis had let her down, and frustration colored her every word. ¡°Do you have any idea why he¡¯s doing this?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand him, either.¡± Tears continued to fall as Isabe shook her head. ¡°For more than two weeks, Denis has barely spent time with me. I suspected he was seeing another woman, but of all people, I never imagined he¡¯d get involved with Judy. How could his standards have fallen so low?¡±


    Rosie frowned, just as baffled. ¡°Judy and Clive seemed toe out of nowhere. Suddenly, they¡¯ve be powerhouses in the criminal scene in Shirie.¡±


    Isabe nodded quickly. ¡°Denis mentioned something about it, but only in passing. He said Clive rose through the ranks with lightning speed. Clive used to y second fiddle to Jade. After Jade died, his name started appearing everywhere, but his real rise to power only happened recently.¡±


    Surprise flickered across Rosie¡¯s face. Her knowledge of the underworld told her that, after Jade, there had been five rival groups, including the one Clive led, but none of them posed a serious threat. From her perspective, Clive taking hold of the four remaining factions in such a short time was impossible.


    ¡°I¡¯ll have people investigate the matter. Denis is not just anybody; I backed him, helped him scoop up nearly all of Jade¡¯s holdings. Now, he is siding with Clive? If that¡¯s what he wants, he better return everything I gave him first,¡± Rosie said.


    Just then, a soft knock interrupted the conversation. Ruby opened the door. ¡°Mr. Barton, you are here.¡±


    Jordy stepped inside, a file clutched in one hand.


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    Without dy, Rosie asked, ¡°Were you able to dig up anything on the Mendoza siblings?¡±


    Jordy handed the file to Rosie. ¡°I pulled what I could from my sources. There isn¡¯t much, but this is everything I could find.¡±


    Rosie took the file and began reading. It contained details about Clive. The man in the photo looked dangerous, his eyes gleaming with malice. He looked like someone who could not be messed with easily.


    At just twenty-nine, Clive had gone from special forces operative to underworld kingpin in three years. The speed of his ascent was shocking. In that short time, he¡¯d built a sprawling criminal operation,manding thousands and running every shady business imaginable. He was now the country¡¯s most wanted fugitive.


    In contrast, Judy had a clean record, which exined why she could appear openly at public events like the auction today.


    ¡°Is that it? Not even an address for Clive?¡± Rosie¡¯s disappointment was clear.


    Jordy met her stare. ¡°You think a man who makes a living off crime and murder would let people find out about where he lives easily?¡±


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 Chapter 928

    ?Chapter 928:


    The moment Rosie saw Jordy¡¯s arrogant smirk, her annoyance red. He always strutted around, acting as if he were smarter than everyone else. She red at him scornfully. ¡°Quit making excuses. You¡¯re useless. You can¡¯t even handle something this simple.¡±


    With a dismissive snort, Jordy replied, ¡°What¡¯s with that attitude? Have you forgotten who¡¯s always been by your side, loyal from day one? Denis stabbed you in the back. Tina¡¯spletely worthless. I¡¯m the only one who¡¯s bothpetent and trustworthy.¡±


    A shadow crossed Rosie¡¯s expression as she slowly raised an eyebrow, the pieces finally falling into ce. Now, she understood why Denis had turned on her, and why she hadn¡¯t noticed the signs before.


    She concluded that Clive must¡¯ve had powerful backing from the start; nomon thug could¡¯ve risen through the ranks so quickly.


    Rosie responded, ¡°Without me, your family would¡¯ve long since fallen to the Harpers and Ethan. Do you think you have the right to challenge me? Show some gratitude and speak respectfully. Remember, I put you in your position, and I can take you down just as easily.¡±


    Though irritation shed across Jordy¡¯s face, he reluctantly acknowledged Rosie¡¯s power. Even the Harpers treaded carefully around her. Begrudgingly, he softened his tone. ¡°Fine. No need to get worked up. I¡¯ve done everything I could and brought you every piece of information. But I simply can¡¯t find out where Clive lives.¡±


    Meanwhile, Isabe felt herself spiraling into panic. The fear that Denis might discard herpletely haunted her. Yet, a stubborn hope lingered. Perhaps Denis would keep his old habits, seekingfort elsewhere even after marrying Judy.


    Despite Judy¡¯s imposing presence, Isabe reasoned that she might still retain Denis¡¯ favor if he didn¡¯t change. But if he truly abandoned her, she wondered how she would survive.


    Without Denis, she feared she would be worthless to Rosie.


    Just then, her phone buzzed rapidly, pulling her back into reality. She unlocked it hurriedly, bewildered as notifications flooded her screen, piling up for a while before finally stopping.


    Fingers trembling, Isabe opened the notifications. Her blood ran cold. Each alert showed massive withdrawals¡ªten million, thirty million, seventy million, thirty million¡­ She froze, hands shaking as she reached the final notification: a transfer of exactly 17.89 million, leaving her bncepletely empty.


    ¡°Rosie,¡± Isabe stammered, pressing the phone toward her. ¡°All my money is gone. How could this happen?¡±


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    Ruby leaned in, eyes wide. The screen confirmed their worst fears. She sank onto the bed, her legs giving way. ¡°Oh my God¡­ Who could do this?¡±


    Rosie snatched the phone and scrolled through the alerts again. They were unmistakably real. Without a word, she dialed the bank.


    ¡°Hello, what happened to all the money in this ount?¡±


    A calm voice replied, ¡°We were about to contact you. Two hundred seventy million was transferred from your ount in seven minutes. Did you authorize these transactions?¡±


    The representative¡¯s poise only heightened their panic. ¡°Absolutely not! Our ount was hacked. You must fix this immediately and get our money back,¡± Rosie snapped.


    ¡°One moment, please. I¡¯ll trace where the funds were sent.¡±


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 Chapter 929

    ?Chapter 929:


    After thirty agonizing seconds, the representative spoke again, reciting a long string of digits. ¡°The money was transferred to this ount. Do you recognize the recipient?¡±


    Isabe¡¯s heart pounded as Rosie put the phone on speaker. Panic wed at her chest, but she recognized the number instantly. ¡°That¡¯s Denis¡¯s ount! He¡¯s the one who wired me money before. That jerk!¡±


    Isabe¡¯s scream filled the room as she crumpled into tears. ¡°Mom, all my money is gone! What are we going to do now?¡±


    As she wept, Ruby¡¯s phone buzzed unexpectedly. Ruby nced down at the screen¡­


    She looked at her phone, the color draining from her face. All the money she had¡ªseven million¡ªwas also gone.


    Shocked and trembling, Ruby stared at the empty bnce, gripping her phone tightly. ¡°Isabe, my money is gone as well! Everything we have is gone! How can we survive now?¡±


    A shadow fell over Rosie¡¯s face as confusion took hold. ¡°What¡¯s Denis up to? Is he doing this to please Judy?¡±


    As a man, Jordy understood men better than they did. He offered his take, saying, ¡°Maybe Denis is cutting Isabe off for good. Or maybe Judy caught wind that he¡¯d been sending money to other women.¡±


    He hesitated briefly, then said, ¡°You could either involve the police or confront Denis yourself.¡±


    Swallowed by desperation, Isabe dialed Mack¡¯s number with trembling fingers. As long as Mack still had his money and his job, she thought desperately, perhaps they could still survive.


    Ruby red bitterly at the near-empty bnce on her phone screen and hurled every profanity she knew.


    Then, she cried, ¡°How am I supposed to live like this? What¡¯s left for me now? Denis is a jerk! Dating my daughter all this time and now taking all the money back¡­ He ispletely heartless! How could he do this¡­¡±


    Fury gripped her chest, driving her to curse Denis over and over without pause. Nearby, Isabe frantically dialed Mack¡¯s number, anxiety rising with each unanswered ring. She whispered nervously to herself, ¡°Why isn¡¯t he answering? Could something bad have happened?¡±


    Wild scenarios rapidly overtook her thoughts. She imagined Mack getting beaten senseless by thugs from the Wagner Group, then being kicked out of his office. She envisioned his bank ounts emptied as well.


    Just as the call was about to end automatically, Mack finally answered.


    ¡°Mack, your money¡ªit¡¯s still safe, right?¡± Isabe blurted out desperately. Ruby instantly ceased sobbing, straining her ears, waiting for Mack¡¯s reply.


    Even Jordy and Rosie leaned in, eager to hear Mack¡¯s answer.


    Baffled, Mack responded, ¡°What are you talking about? My money¡¯s fine. I¡¯m in a meeting, Isabe. Can we talkter?¡±


    Isabe sighed heavily with relief. ¡°Thank God your money hasn¡¯t vanished. If Denis took your money as well, our family would have no choice but to beg for a living.¡±


    ¡°What are you talking about?¡± Mack said, growing concerned. ¡°Tell me clearly¡ªwhat happened?¡±


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 Chapter 930

    ?Chapter 930:


    Isabeunched into the whole story¡ªhow the auction had spiraled out of control, how she¡¯d been beaten, and how Denis had taken all her and Ruby¡¯s money.


    Mack went quiet for a moment, stunned. Then, he said, ¡°Wait, Denis is going to marry Judy?¡±


    Tears broke free as Isabe said, ¡°Yes! That awful woman! Her brother Clive is involved in gangs, you know? Mack, Mom and I are penniless now. What should we do?¡±


    She broke down crying, seeing Mack as herst hope.


    A long, heavy silence passed before Mack spoke with quiet reassurance. ¡°Calm down. You still have me, don¡¯t you? I¡¯m nowhere near as wealthy as Denis, but my¡­¡±


    Ie is enough to support both you and Mom financially. Don¡¯t panic; I will figure something out. Where are you? I¡¯lle see you as soon as my meeting ends.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m at the hospital,¡± Isabe said. ¡°Mack, we have absolutely nothing left. Denis threw me aside and emptied my ount. Judy already beat me today; do you think she¡¯ll try to kill me soon? Those gangsters are notorious for eliminating anyone who gets in their way¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s tough to predict right now, but don¡¯t panic. Just avoid going home today and wait for me; I¡¯ll take care of everything.¡±


    Before the conversation could end, Ruby seized the phone, anxiety twisting her voice. ¡°Mack, you need to be careful. Denis mighte after your savings too. Remember, he¡¯s the reason you got your job. If Judy finds out about this, you could be their next target.¡±


    They talked a while longer before ending the call.


    Rosie observed Isabe, considering whether she remained useful or should be discarded. Without money, what value could Isabe offer her?


    Picking up on Rosie¡¯s hesitation, Isabe grabbed her arm, desperation coloring her tone. ¡°Please, Rosie! I still have value. I can keep Denis close; just don¡¯t cast me aside. There¡¯s something else¡ªDenis isn¡¯t the type to sell himself for money. Judy must be holding something over him. Let me figure out what it is. He loves me; I know he does. You have to trust me¡­¡±


    Rosie offered a slight nod, concluding Isabe might still be useful for now. ¡°Okay, rest for now. I¡¯ve already handled your hospital bills, so just focus on recovery. We¡¯ll discuss everything elseter. Tina ran into trouble today, too, and I need to see how she¡¯s doing now.¡±


    After offering brieffort to Isabe and Ruby, Rosie and Jordy left.


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    Doubt gnawed at Ruby. ¡°What if Miss Harper decides to abandon us?¡±


    But Isabe maintained a calmer front. ¡°She won¡¯t discard me now; I hold too many secrets about her misdeeds. Even without money, we can still be useful to her. Mom, we still have Mack¡¯s support, right? We¡¯ll manage.¡±


    A cloud of worry lingered on Ruby¡¯s face. ¡°Have you thought this through? The more secrets you know, the more danger you¡¯re in. Ms. Harper may want to kill you.¡±


    ¡°Mom, stop talking nonsense!¡± Isabe snapped sharply. ¡°Miss Harper won¡¯t do something like that.¡±


    Secretly, Isabe recognized Ruby had a point. Rosie might not be a gang member herself, but she had dangerous connections and a ruthless streak. Crossing her was unquestionably risky.


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 Chapter 931

    ?Chapter 931:


    Isabe clutched her phone tightly, her eyes locked on the messaging app. She typed out a message to Denis, but soon deleted it.


    Denis had always showered her generously with money; this abrupt withdrawal clearly indicated deeper trouble. If she contacted him now, someone might notice, and it could put her in danger.


    Yet, the enormous financial loss gnawed persistently at her. She couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that her future hung by a thread now. She urgently needed to find a new, wealthy protector.


    Ethan strolled out of the elevator, a grin on his lips as he spoke into his phone. ¡°You haven¡¯t had lunch, right? We brought your favorite food. I¡¯ll wait for you at your office.¡±


    It was already two in the afternoon, but Brenna had remained at the auction house for hours, missing her lunch. Not wanting her to go hungry, Ethan had picked up takeout and made his way over to her office as soon as possible.


    Across the lobby, Greta spotted Ethan. She reached into her drawer for a mirror, giving her reflection a quick once-over. Convinced she looked presentable, she slipped the mirror away and offered him a courteous smile. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, Ms. Harper is not here at the moment. Is there anything you need?¡±


    The takeout bag Ethan was holding caught her attention; it had the logo of a famous restaurant. Jealousy pricked at Greta, and she looked away almost as soon as she noticed it.


    She couldn¡¯t help but wonder who the food was for.


    Offering no answer, Ethan moved straight into Brenna¡¯s office. He set the meal on her desk and quietly settled into a chair. Greta followed him inside.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing urgent. Brenna is still busy at the auction house and hasn¡¯t eaten, so I brought something for her,¡± Ethan finally said.


    Greta blinked in surprise, pleased by how patiently Ethan answered her. Most days, he was cold and didn¡¯t talk much. Yet now, he seemed to be in a good mood, open to conversation. Maybe, she thought, this was her chance to chat with him. Since Brenna was nowhere in sight, and nobody knew when she might return, Greta wondered what topic would be safe to bring up.


    She knew better than to talk about herself. Curiosity tugged at her, fueled by all the talk circting the office. Whispers about Ethan and Gracie¡¯s supposed romance never seemed to die down. Greta couldn¡¯t help but wonder if those rumors held any truth. Maybe she would finally get some answers now.


    A decision was formed in her mind.


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    ¡°Mr. Mitchell, things seemed hectic for you yesterday. Word around here is that the Mitchell Group has a new executive, a founding member who just stepped in as vice president. People have been talking about it quite a bit. Even Brenna mentioned hearing rumors¡­¡±


    She stopped there, letting her words linger in the air, hoping Ethan would take the bait.


    Confidence surged through her; she was certain Ethan would catch her meaning.


    Sure enough, Ethan¡¯s expression softened a little, and curiosity flickered in his eyes. ¡°Which rumors are you talking about?¡±


    Feigning hesitation, Greta nced away. She wore an uneasy smile, as if deciding whether to tell him or not.


    Ethan¡¯s tone grew cold, pressing her to continue. ¡°Tell me.¡±


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 Chapter 932

    ?Chapter 932:


    Realizing she could not back out now, Greta said, ¡°Everyone keeps saying that you and Miss Wilson are romantically involved.¡±


    She held her breath, waiting for Ethan¡¯s reaction. A part of her worried he might be upset, but her need to know the truth was stronger than her caution.


    She watched Ethan closely, hoping for a hint of what he was thinking. But his face stayed perfectly calm. There was not a single sign of anger or embarrassment. She couldn¡¯t get anything from his expression.


    Since his thoughts remained a mystery, Greta continued, ¡°Brenna spent all of yesterday thinking about that. She was so distracted that she made a couple of mistakes. She even went looking for you in the morning. Mr. Mitchell, is there something going on between you and Miss Wilson?¡±


    Her nerves jangled as she waited for his reply. Dropping Brenna¡¯s name was a calcted move; she hoped it would draw some kind of answer from him.


    Surely, he would not want people to misunderstand things, right?


    ¡°I see. If there¡¯s nothing else, you should get back to your tasks. Brenna will be back soon,¡± Ethan said.


    His voice was cool as ever, sidestepping her question entirely.


    Greta felt a wave of disappointment but kept her thoughts to herself.


    She said, ¡°I¡¯ll bring you a cup of coffee.¡±


    ¡°That won¡¯t be necessary.¡± Ethan¡¯s tone grew even frostier.


    Sensing that he was unwilling to talk to her anymore, Greta excused herself. Frustration simmered inside her as she left; she was disappointed that she still did not know the truth.


    Soon after, Lorna stepped in, carrying a cup of coffee for Ethan. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, your coffee. I just spoke with Miss Harper. She mentioned she¡¯ll be back in about ten minutes.¡±


    Ethan replied, ¡°Thank you.¡± And Lorna left the office.


    Left alone, Ethan reyed the morning in his mind, focusing on how Brenna had acted. If she was having doubts about his rtionship with Gracie, why had she never said anything? Did she really believe there was something going on between him and Gracie?


    A wave of uncertainty washed over him, but when he recalled how Brenna had behaved earlier, he believed nothing seemed out of the ordinary. She had not acted cold, nor had she seemed bothered.


    Even after running through every detail, Ethan still could not figure out what Brenna might be thinking.


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    Ethan grabbed his phone and dialed Rex. ¡°Do you remember when Brenna stopped by my office yesterday?¡±


    Rex responded quickly, ¡°She came by at around 10:20 in the morning. You were busy in a meeting, so ni spoke with her instead. Brenna said it was not urgent and didn¡¯t want to interrupt you.¡±


    Once Ethan hung up, the answer became clear to him. Brenna must have been jealous, but she had gone out of her way to hide it. A small, satisfied grin tugged at his lips. He believed that Brenna had fallen for him. She had kept her jealousy quiet, determined not to let him notice it.


    A few minutester, Brenna finally returned.


    Ethan slipped his hands into his pockets and watched her closely. Her face gave nothing away; she seemed calm.


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 Chapter 933

    ?Chapter 933:


    Closing the distance, he wrapped her in a gentle hug. ¡°You must be hungry. I brought you something delicious.¡±


    With a gentle step back, Brenna slipped out of his warm embrace. ¡°Let¡¯s eat; I¡¯m starving.¡±


    Reaching into the bag, Ethan began unpacking the food containers.


    Drawn by both the sight and smell of the delicious food, Brenna felt her hunger kick in at once. ¡°It smells amazing.¡±


    Coffee in hand, Ethan sat nearby, watching as Brenna dug into her meal. He believed that even though she was curious about a lot of things, she held back from asking him anything.


    A few moments passed before Ethan broke the silence. ¡°Just so you know, Gracie is nothing more than a business associate to me. We went to college together in Norview, and she was interested in me back then, but I didn¡¯t feel the same way. Later, when I was building mypany, she offered me a lot of help. People love to gossip, but there¡¯s never been anything romantic between Gracie and me.¡±


    Ethan looked at Brenna. She seemed more focused on her food, but he could tell she was listening. Her silence made him want to exin himself even more.


    He continued, ¡°There¡¯s a reason I put her office on the same floor as mine. She invested arge sum in mypany when I was just starting out. That investment turned into about five percent of thepany shares. She won¡¯t be involved in what happens here day-to-day, and she will mostly take care of her family¡¯s business in Vand. The office is mostly for show.¡±


    Only then did Brenna set her fork down and lift her gaze to Ethan, a subtle smile hinting at her lips. She was happy that he finally exined the matter to her.


    ¡°So, there¡¯s nothing between you two?¡± Brenna asked, the doubt not quite leaving her eyes.


    ¡°Absolutely nothing,¡± Ethan replied, his voice steady.


    Satisfied and much more at ease after her meal, Brenna felt her worries lift. Still, she leveled him with a yful scowl. ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll let you off this once. But from now on, no more private meetings with her, no hugging, and definitely no flowers for her.¡±


    Ethan had no objections to Brenna¡¯s requests. In fact, he took them as a sign that she genuinely cared for him and was starting to fall in love with him. With a quietugh, he said, ¡°Of course, honey. I promise I¡¯ll do as you say.¡±


    Just then, his phone started ringing. He rose from his seat and returned to his office.


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    Inside, three vice presidents awaited him, their faces serious. Their intentions soon became clear¡ªthey were worried about Gracie¡¯s arrival and whether it threatened their own positions.


    Ethan spent a long time talking with them, and it wasn¡¯t until after five o¡¯clock, close to the end of the workday, that the three vice presidents finally left, reassured.


    The next day, Rosie made her way to the hospital to see Tina.


    It was a little past ten in the morning, and Tina was alone in her hospital room, receiving an IV drip.


    With nothing else to do, she scrolled through videos on her phone. Yesterday¡¯s chaos at the auction reyed in her mind, and she had expected social media to be bursting with news about that, maybe even with leaked footage of her most humiliating moment.


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 Chapter 934

    ?Chapter 934:


    Time slipped by as she scrolled, but not a single headline or rumor about her appeared.


    ¡°At least I dodged the spotlight this time. If that had blown up, I¡¯d never dare to show my face again,¡± Tina muttered to herself.


    ¡°I¡¯m the reason it didn¡¯t blow up; I helped bury the story,¡± said Rosie,ing through the door and easing herself into the chair by the bed, her gaze gentle with worry. ¡°How are you feeling now? Does it still hurt?¡±


    Tina gave a small shake of her head, though the pain in her eyes lingered. Rosie¡¯s kindness moved her, and tears slid down her cheeks. ¡°The doctor already patched me up. I¡¯m not in pain anymore. Rosie, you¡¯re the only one who is looking out for me.¡±


    A sense of grievance burned in Tina¡¯s chest. ¡°I still don¡¯t get it. Why did Judy attack me? I never provoked her, and I sure didn¡¯t seduce her boyfriend. I can see why she¡¯dsh out at Isabe, but why me?¡±


    Rosie let out a dramatic sigh. ¡°I had my team dig into Judy¡¯s backgroundst night. Turns out, she¡¯s a piece of work¡ªunstable, bossy, always jumping in where she thinks there¡¯s injustice. She has no patience for women who use underhanded means to seduce men. Most likely, she caught wind of what happened in Plomond and was in a foul mood that day, so sheshed out at you.¡±


    ¡°That woman is out of her mind!¡± Tina¡¯s voice shook with anger. ¡°She picked the wrong person this time. Why should I get hit for no reason? Does she honestly believe the Russell family is an easy target?¡±


    Resentment festered as Tina remembered how she had already called her father and brother for support. Both had promised to get revenge for her. In her eyes, Judy hadn¡¯t just gone after her; she had crossed the entire Russell family. As the conversation continued, the sharp wail of a fire truck siren sounded from the street, but neither Rosie nor Tina thought much about it.


    For a while longer, Rosie stayed to keep Tinapany, and after an hour had passed, she finally left the room.


    With Isabe being treated at the same hospital, Rosie decided to pay her a visit.


    Upon entering Isabe¡¯s room, she found Ruby and Mack both there. Mack looked utterly defeated, while Isabe clung to Ruby as the two of them sobbed.


    Rosie, feeling frustrated by the scene, set her fruit basket down and snapped, ¡°Why are you crying again? Weren¡¯t the tears yesterday enough?¡±


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    Patience had never been her strong suit. She asked sharply, ¡°What happened this time?¡±


    Every single thing Rosie had carefully set up in recent days had copsed disastrously. ns she¡¯d spent hours perfecting had been ruined, forcing her to start all over again.


    The sight of Ruby and Isabe sobbing bitterly only intensified her irritation. She shot them a pointed look and snapped, ¡°You two need to pull yourselves together. Sitting here crying won¡¯t fix anything.¡±


    Knowing Rosie well, Isabe felt a surge of dread at the thought of losing her support. Without Rosie, her entire family would end up destitute and homeless.


    She nudged Ruby aside, hastily wiping her tears with a tissue before timidly exining, ¡°Rosie, the maid called just now, saying our house burned down. The fire spread too fast; by the time firefighters arrived, nothing could be saved.¡±


    Ruby couldn¡¯t contain her despair and fell dramatically to her knees before Rosie, pleading, ¡°Miss Harper, please, we need your help! Denis¡ªthat ruthless monster¡ªhe set our house on fire, threw Mack out of thepany, and even took away all his money. We have nothing left now!¡±


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 Chapter 935

    ?Chapter 935:


    ¡°Denis has crossed a line!¡± Rosie¡¯s expression darkened dangerously. She refused to ept such humiliation. Denis wasn¡¯t merely punishing Isabe¡¯s family; this was clearly an insult directed straight at her.


    She then turned to Ruby, Isabe, and Mack. ¡°Enough. Stop crying. It¡¯s too noisy.¡±


    Ruby bit back her sobs, terrified that any more outbursts would upset Rosie and make her abandon them.


    Remaining on her knees, she pleaded desperately, ¡°Miss Harper, you¡¯re wealthy, and you own plenty of ces. I¡¯m begging you, please let us stay in one of them. We¡¯ll serve you faithfully forever if you help us now.¡±


    Mack¡¯s stomach twisted as he watched his mother plead on her knees, desperate for a lifeline. But he knew they had no other choice. With Isabe now on the wrong side of Shirie¡¯s gang leader, a figure even Denis feared, their family was powerless. They needed to depend on Rosie¡¯s support to survive now.


    He hesitated but eventually joined his mother, kneeling beside her. ¡°Miss Harper, it¡¯s obvious they¡¯re trying to humiliate you through us. Judy and Denis both know we¡¯re under your protection, so treating us like this is an insult to you. You refusing to help us would be seen as epting defeat.¡±


    Rosie had already thought of that. From the moment Denis had openly tried to tter Judy at the auction, it had be painfully clear to her: the attacks on Isabe were actually indirect assaults on her, the mastermind behind Isabe¡¯s actions.


    ¡°There¡¯s no use saying this now. What we need is a n,¡± Rosie said, fixing her re on Mack.


    Helping Ruby to her feet, Mack quickly started thinking of a n.


    He said, ¡°Miss Harper, right now, only the Harper family or Ethan can deal with Clive and Judy. You are familiar with both Ethan and the Harper family. You can ask them to help you. In fact, I believe Clive¡¯s recent actions might actually be testing Ethan and the Harper family. If they don¡¯t strike back now, they¡¯ll likely be Clive¡¯s next targets. There¡¯s got to be someone more powerful pulling Clive¡¯s strings.¡±


    Rosie was silent, her mind busy considering what Mack had just said. He certainly made a valid argument.


    A meaningful look passed between Mack and Isabe; they believed that perhaps Rosie was taking Mack¡¯s words to heart.


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    Sensing her chance, Isabe spoke up, her voice gentle but urgent. ¡°Rosie, the hospital is discharging me tomorrow. My family and I have nowhere to stay now. Our home is ruined, and rebuilding the house will take months. Besides, we¡¯ve run out of money. Please, would you let us stay in one of your houses?¡±


    Without a word, Rosie tapped on her phone and sent Isabe a hundred thousand. She forwarded an address as well. ¡°Use this money carefully. You can stay in this ce for now. Mack,e see me on Monday. I¡¯ll set you up with a job.¡±


    Relief washed over Mack¡¯s face. ¡°Miss Harper, you¡¯ve saved us. We¡¯ll do anything you say from now on.¡±


    Words of thanks tumbled from Isabe as well. One hundred thousand wasn¡¯t much, but it was enough for them to live on for a while.


    Fortunately, Isabe remembered a little nest egg she had tucked away in an online investment ount. She hadpletely forgotten about it in all the turmoil earlier. Denis had no idea it even existed, so that ount was safe. With a few million set aside, she nned to withdraw the funds as soon as the investment matured.


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 Chapter 936

    ?Chapter 936:


    Monday morning came, and Brenna settled in at her office, working intently on a robot design. Thiago¡¯s knock interrupted her concentration as he entered the room.


    ¡°Thend¡¯s finally cleared; let¡¯s go and check it out,¡± he said, pausing as hertest design caught his eye. ¡°You¡¯re a real genius with this stuff, Brenna.¡±


    Brenna saved her work and closed the design software. ¡°That was quick. I can¡¯t believe the approval went through in under a week.¡±


    She shrugged on her coat and joined Thiago at the elevator. The moment they reached the lobby, a tall blonde woman crossed their path. Her khaki coat and self-assured manner caught Brenna¡¯s attention.


    Their eyes met, and the woman offered Brenna a respectful smile, clear admiration in her gaze.


    Brenna smiled back, keeping it polite and friendly.


    When the woman disappeared into the elevator, Thiago leaned over and said to Brenna, ¡°That¡¯s Gracie.¡±


    From the moment Brennaid eyes on Gracie, she sensed this woman was no ordinary person. She looked capable, and there was amanding fire in her gaze that made her seem formidable.


    As Brenna spun around, the elevator door was just about to slide shut. Gracie was holding a bag in one hand, its size hinting at a load of documents inside. At that moment, Brenna realized Gracie was here to see Ethan. She quickly said to Thiago, ¡°You can go ahead without me.¡±


    There was no way she would just stand by and watch another woman make a move on Ethan. She needed to guard her love.


    ¡°Hold on!¡± Just then, a familiar voice rang out from behind. Brenna¡¯s heart sank as she turned and spotted Elsa, someone she hadn¡¯t seen in quite some time, walking into the lobby.


    Elsa walked right past Brenna, acting as if she didn¡¯t recognize her, and quickly entered the elevator.


    Brenna stepped in after her and gave a courteous nod. ¡°What brings you here today?¡±


    Earlier, Elsa had been watching videos on her phone when she stumbled upon clips of Ethan picking up Gracie at the airport. She had also seen footage of Ethan embracing Gracie, bringing her to the Imperial Bar for apany gathering, and even dropping her off at her residencete at night.


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    To Elsa, this presented an ideal chance to create conflict between Brenna and Ethan.


    She had done her homework on Gracie and discovered that she was exceptional in every way. Her background, education, and looks were all impressive. In her eyes, Gracie surpassed Brenna on all fronts. Eager to make the most of the opportunity, she hade here to ask Ethan what he thought about Gracie.


    She was genuinely impressed by Gracie, and as fate would have it, she bumped into Gracie before she even got to Ethan¡¯s office. She greeted Gracie with a warm, friendly smile.


    Noting Elsa¡¯s polished look andposed manner, Gracie assumed she was either a senior executive or a significant client of the Mitchell Group. She returned the smile with courtesy.


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 Chapter 937

    ?Chapter 937:


    Brenna couldn¡¯t help but roll her eyes, clearly sensing Elsa¡¯s intentions. She was convinced Elsa hade here because of Gracie. But how had she even learned about her?


    She suspected that Elsa had people inside thepany feeding her information.


    ¡°It¡¯s none of your business,¡± Elsa¡¯s voice wasced with arrogance as she replied to Brenna, her expression dripping with disdain. Confident that Gracie didn¡¯t understand the Vandnguage, she didn¡¯t bother to mask her words as she said to Brenna, ¡°I think Gracie is a far better match for him than you could ever be.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re nning to pull the same trick again, right?¡± Brenna replied. ¡°But Gracie is not Minna. She might not fall for your maniption so easily.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not stupid,¡± Elsa replied coolly, not attempting to conceal her motives. She believed that Brenna didn¡¯t know about Ethan and Gracie¡¯s past. ¡°You had no idea, did you? Gracie is my son¡¯s ex-girlfriend. All it would take is a little push, and they would rekindle what they had.¡±


    ¡°You are unbelievable,¡± Brenna said with clear disdain. ¡°But I hate to disappoint you. Your son already told me they are just business partners.¡±


    After overhearing the exchange between Brenna and Elsa, Gracie quickly pieced together their rtionship. Still, she chose to feign ignorance, keeping a calm expression.


    Soon, the elevator arrived at the ny-ninth floor. When the doors opened, Ethan was already outside, waiting to wee Gracie. Seeing all three women step out together left him momentarily stunned.


    ¡°Gracie!¡± Ethan greeted Gracie with a faint smile, reaching out to shake her hand. ¡°Please wait for me in the office. I have something to handle first, but I¡¯ll be there shortly.¡±


    Gracie replied in Vand¡¯snguage, ¡°Okay.¡±


    Just then, ni approached and led Gracie toward Ethan¡¯s office.


    Ethan turned to Elsa with a stern look. ¡°Mom, what are you doing here? Why didn¡¯t you let me know you wereing?¡±


    He shot a quick, apologetic look at Brenna. Without waiting for Elsa¡¯s answer, he reached out and held Brenna¡¯s hand.


    Gracie happened to nce back at that moment and caught sight of them holding hands. A brief shadow crossed her eyes.


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    ¡°Who is that gorgeous woman?¡± Gracie asked ni, pretending not to know who Brenna was.


    ¡°That¡¯s Mr. Mitchell¡¯s girlfriend, Miss Brenna Harper from the Night Studio,¡± ni answered, sensing the tension in the air and suspecting something dramatic might soon happen.


    Gracie offered apliment. ¡°She is beautiful. They really look good together.¡±


    ¡°Miss Wilson!¡± Elsa called out, approaching Gracie with a bright smile. ¡°Hello, I¡¯m Ethan¡¯s mother. I¡¯ve heard so much about you. You are stunning. It¡¯s truly an honor for my son to have you as his business partner.¡±


    Gracie stopped walking and responded warmly, ¡°Ah, so you are Ethan¡¯s mother. That exins your beauty and grace. You look so young. Anyone could mistake you for his elder sister.¡±


    ¡°You are too kind,¡± Elsa said, clearly delighted. The more she observed Gracie, the more she liked her. In her eyes, Gracie was far more charming and well-mannered than Brenna.


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 Chapter 938

    ?Chapter 938:


    In the break room, Ethan grabbed three lemon wedges from the cupboard, dropped them into a ss, and gently muddled them with a citrus press. He then reached for a jar of honey, drizzling a small amount into the mix before filling the ss with water. With a smile, he handed the drink to Brenna. ¡°Try my handiwork,¡± he said. ¡°When I was studying abroad in Norview, my family was dead-set against it. They wanted me back home, pushing me to enlist in the military. To pressure me, they refused to give me any money. I took on all sorts of jobs to make ends meet, picking up skills like making lemon water and brewing coffee.¡±


    Brenna studied Ethan¡¯s proud expression before taking a sip, her face lighting up with surprise. ¡°Wow, this is actually really good. Who knew a CEO like you could whip up something like this?¡±


    Ethanughed softly. ¡°I can make any drink you¡¯d find at a caf¨¦. Back in the day, I worked at a beverage shop owned by the Wilson family¡¯spany. I was just a broke student, barely scraping by, working for myndlord to cover rent. Whatever I earned went straight to tuition. If it weren¡¯t for Gracie stepping in to help me out, I don¡¯t know how I would have managed to survive.¡±


    Brenna sipped the lemon water slowly, her thoughts shifting. A realization hit her¡ªEthan might not want her getting involved in his and Gracie¡¯s matters.


    The drink suddenly lost its appeal.


    ¡°Do you not want me to be around when you¡¯re meeting Gracie?¡± Brenna asked coolly, her tone edged with suspicion, her eyes narrowing slightly.


    ¡°No, that¡¯s not what I meant at all. Gracie¡¯s in a tough spot. She just got engaged to Hector Nicolson, the son of a mafia boss, but it¡¯s not what she wants. Her father¡¯spany is struggling, and he¡¯s pushing her into this marriage for a financial bailout. She came here to take on the role of the Wilson Group¡¯s Vand district CEO to get away from it all. Seeing us happy together might be hard for her.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s lips tightened; she was unconvinced by Ethan¡¯s exnation.


    ¡°You¡¯re awfully considerate of her feelings,¡± she said, setting the ss down with a forced, cold smile. ¡°You know what? I¡¯ve got work to do. I¡¯ll leave now.¡± She walked out before Ethan could say anything.


    After leaving the building, Brenna spotted Thiago lounging against her car, a sly smirk on his face, looking like he was mocking her.


    ¡°Rough moment up there?¡± Thiago asked, opening the passenger door for her.


    He slid into the driver¡¯s seat after she got inside the car and started the engine. Brenna¡¯s face was stone-cold, her mood dark. ¡°Are you here to mock me?¡± she snapped.


    ¡°As a man, I can tell you men love to impress women; it¡¯s just how we¡¯re wired. Ethan¡¯s no different. When two women he wants to impress are around, he¡¯s bound to feel caught in the middle.¡± Thiago gave a soft chuckle, noticing Brenna¡¯s frustration with a man for the first time.


    Brenna shot him a re. ¡°So you¡¯re saying Ethan cares a lot about Gracie? But he told me there¡¯s nothing romantic between them.¡±


    Thiago shook his head. ¡°You trust him too much. It¡¯s clear he cares about her. Why else would he go all out¡ªpicking her up from the airport, throwing a wee dinner, letting her crash at his ce? Would he do all that if their rtionship were just ordinary? Only someone as innocent as you would buy his words.¡±


    Brenna bristled, unwilling to ept it. ¡°I don¡¯t believe you.¡±


    ¡°Then just wait and see. You¡¯ll encounter more disappointing thingster,¡± Thiago said. ¡°But hey, I could be wrong. You can just observe the situation for a while.¡±


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 Chapter 939

    ?Chapter 939:


    Back in the break room, Ethan lingered, staring at the barely touched lemon water. Brenna¡¯s exit reyed in his mind. He typed out a message on his phone a few times, only to delete it, not knowing how tofort Brenna.


    Eventually, he pocketed the phone and headed to his office.


    There, he found Elsa, giving Gracie a tour. The two wereughing and chatting like old friends, despite having just met.


    Ethan knew his mother too well¡ªher unannounced visit and perfect timing in the elevator with Gracie were no coincidence.


    It was clear to him she had looked into Gracie¡¯s background beforehand, precisely timing her arrival to coincide with Gracie¡¯s at the office. He also believed she knew Gracie¡¯s past.


    Thinking about that, Ethan felt a flicker of irritation.


    ¡°Mom, if you¡¯re done here, you should leave. This is a workce, not our home,¡± Ethan said, his voice distant.


    Elsa, understanding her son well, didn¡¯t want Gracie to know about their strained rtionship. She smiled slightly, pretending to be a considerate mother. ¡°Alright, I just missed you and thought I would stop by. Come home tonight; I want to talk to you about something.¡±


    Ethan saw through her act but didn¡¯t expose her, choosing instead to avoid making a scene.


    Gracie meandered along the bookshelf nearby, her fingers trailing the spines, though her real focus remained on Ethan and Elsa¡¯s conversation.


    Tension filled the air, every word between Ethan and Elsa hinting at a simmering conflict. It was clear that Ethan was cold toward his mother.


    A clipped, professional tone colored Ethan¡¯s words. ¡°I¡¯ll see you out.¡± He maintained a business-like demeanor toward Elsa even in Gracie¡¯s presence.


    Anger tightened Elsa¡¯s posture. As Ethan¡¯s mother, she resented being treated as an outsider by him like this.


    ¡°Very well, I¡¯ll go,¡± she said. ¡°Gracie¡¯spany is throwing a wee banquet for her this weekend, and I intend to attend. The city¡¯s upper crust will be there. By the way, how¡¯s the situation with Minna now? Her mother reached out to me yesterday; she wants you to find Minna a job soon.¡±


    As she walked out, she continued asking Ethan questions.


    Ethan replied, ¡°I¡¯ve arranged a job for her at a new airline. The pay and benefits are fair, but she doesn¡¯t like the job and still wants to work at the samepany as my brother.¡±


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    The news caught Elsa off guard. ¡°Has she lost her mind? What is she trying to do? Is she nning to keep clinging to your brother? She already took the money; why can¡¯t she just move on?¡±


    Ethan pressed the elevator button for her. ¡°Isn¡¯t this what you want? You never approved of Rosanna being with my brother; you should feel happy that Minna is interfering.¡±


    A look of irritation crossed Elsa¡¯s face as she looked at Ethan. She had never enjoyed hisments, not when he was a boy, and certainly not now; his words always seemed to irritate her.


    A sudden thought came to her mind just as Ethan was about to get inside the elevator. ¡°No need to see me off. I can leave on my own.¡±


    As the doors slid shut, Elsa pressed the button for the 58th floor, knowing that was where she¡¯d find Brenna¡¯s office.


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 Chapter 940

    ?Chapter 940:


    Today, she intended to humiliate Brenna thoroughly. Her son had many outstanding women around him; Brenna was not his only option. She nned to make Brenna retreat in defeat.


    Stepping out of the elevator, Elsa made her way directly to Brenna¡¯s office.


    The sight of a visitor caught Lorna¡¯s eye, prompting her to rise and greet Elsa. Recognizing Elsa as a well-known artist and singer, Lorna couldn¡¯t hide her excitement. ¡°Hello. Are you here to see someone?¡±


    A sense of satisfaction washed over Elsa as she basked in the respect shown to her. ¡°Where is Brenna?¡± she asked.


    Politeness colored Lorna¡¯s reply. ¡°Miss Harper is out at the moment and will be back this afternoon. Is there something urgent?¡±


    Lorna¡¯s mind raced, trying to guess what connections Elsa and Brenna had.


    Greta overheard the conversation and approached, smiling politely at Elsa. ¡°Hello. I¡¯m Greta. Brenna isn¡¯t here. If you have anything to tell her, you can tell me, and I¡¯ll pass it on.¡±


    With Brenna absent, Elsa¡¯s desire to humiliate her diminished significantly. ¡°No need for that. Since she¡¯s not here, I¡¯ll leave. I can talk to her next time.¡± She believed Brenna was lucky this time.


    Still, Elsa couldn¡¯t resist stirring things up a little. Casting her gaze around, she noted the spacious office, the quiet diligence of the staff, and the single supervisor standing watch.


    A feigned casualness crept into her tone. ¡°Actually, I only meant to talk to her about something simple. The new vice president at the Mitchell Group, Gracie, once dated Ethan. I even checked with Gracie just now, and she confirmed their rtionship in the past. She is not only more beautiful and aplished than Brenna, but her background also outshines Brenna¡¯s.¡±


    Greta found herself momentarily speechless, stunned that a respected singer like Elsa could say something so mean. Her eyes drifted to Lorna.


    Disappointment settled in for Lorna. Whatever admiration she¡¯d once held for Elsa dissolved in an instant.


    Respect gone, she decided not to mince words. ¡°Matters of the heart cannot be forced, and Mr. Mitchell¡¯s rtionship with Miss Harper is their private matter. If you have no further business here, please see yourself out.¡±


    With no idea of Elsa¡¯s true connection to Ethan, Lorna didn¡¯t hold back in the slightest.


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    Greta, on the other hand, was well aware that Elsa was Ethan¡¯s mother. Secretly hoping for a future with Ethan herself, she didn¡¯t want to offend Elsa. Her tone was careful, almost deferential. ¡°We¡¯ll make sure Miss Harper receives your message.¡±


    Elsa red at Lorna. ¡°Youngdy, you should show more respect to your elders. Do you have any idea who you¡¯re talking to? If you keep being rude to me, you will pay for it.¡±


    Lorna shot her a pointed look but, not wanting to make herself a target, quietly slipped back to her desk.


    With her voice ringing through the office, Elsa continued, ¡°You are all working in my son¡¯spany building now. This is not inappropriate. Soon enough, my son will get back together with Gracie. And all of you will be kicked out since you work for Brenna.¡± Her parting words hung in the air as she strode away. Greta stood there, her expression awkward.


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 Chapter 941

    ?Chapter 941:


    A few momentster, Tommy approached her, his tone full of reproach. ¡°Why bother being so courteous to her?¡±


    Greta, feeling slighted by the whole scene, quickly lied, saying, ¡°I was just trying to be nice to Ethan¡¯s mother for Brenna¡¯s sake.¡±


    By the time Brenna and Thiago wrapped up their visit to the lot, morning had given way to noon. Hunger nudged them to grab lunch before heading back to thepany.


    As the car pulled up to thepany entrance, Brenna spotted a familiar figure standing near the building¡ªAlec. He was dressed in a security guard¡¯s uniform. For a split second, she doubted herself. Yet, as she squinted through the ss, there was no mistaking it. That man was truly Alec.


    Alec wasted no time reaching Brenna¡¯s car. He pulled the door open, and his eyes widened in shock as he saw Brenna. ¡°Brenna! Mr. Mitchell offered me fifteen thousand a month to work here. He said taxi driving wears me down and puts me around troublemakers. He told me it¡¯d be safer if I worked here.¡± But Brenna felt there was more to it. Why hadn¡¯t Ethan mentioned this to her before?


    Her face stayed unreadable as she stepped onto the pavement. Not a flicker of joy crossed her features. ¡°Alright. Just do your best,¡± she replied.


    Alec immediately caught the chill in her tone. He believed that she felt embarrassed that he was doing this. Deep down, he hoped she would talk to Ethan, maybe convince him to give him a more respectable position, like vice president or at least manager.


    No matter how he tried to look at it, settling for a security guard job didn¡¯t sit right with him. He was not grateful to Ethan or Brenna. Someone with his experience deserved a higher post, but Ethan had only given him the job as a security guard.


    He felt like Ethan was looking down on him.


    Bitterness grew inside him.


    Just now, he had hoped that since Brenna saw him as a security guard, she would speak to Ethan on his behalf and get him a better position.


    However, now, it seemed that Brenna wasn¡¯t nning to do anything of the sort.


    The realization made him angry.


    Alec believed Brenna understood his intentions. He forced a smile. ¡°Security work¡¯s going just fine for me. If me being here is embarrassing, you can just ignore me when people are around.¡±


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    Thiago also got out of the car and watched Alec putting on an act without a word.


    Brenna didn¡¯t even try to mask her irritation. She understood exactly what Alec meant, and the implication left her feeling nothing but distaste.


    ¡°That¡¯s not true at all. Honest work is something to be proud of, and supporting yourself through your own effort is worth respect.¡±


    Without another word, she strode into the building, leaving Alec behind.


    Alec¡¯s forced grin faded away, his expression showing a trace of malice.


    Inside the elevator, Thiago broke the silence. ¡°Going from running the Barrett Group to guarding the front door must sting. But Alec didn¡¯t show his dissatisfaction at all today. He was clearly putting on an act.¡±


    Disgust shed across Brenna¡¯s face. ¡°I saw him at the mall the other day. He actually dropped to his knees in front of me. You heard about that, didn¡¯t you?¡±


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 Chapter 942

    ?Chapter 942:


    Thiago let out a lowugh. ¡°Ellie filled me in. That¡¯s exactly why I think he was putting on an act earlier. You need to be careful around him. He¡¯s definitely plotting something.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right. Even my parents warned me that he had ulterior motives and asked me to be wary of him.¡±


    The elevator chimed, doors opening on the 58th floor, but Brenna remained inside. Her expression turned serious. ¡°I need to ask Ethan about this.¡±


    Thiago exited the elevator and found a crowd of employees huddled together, murmuring about something. Seeing that Thiago had returned, Joe walked over to him.


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell¡¯s mother came by earlier and said something unpleasant about Brenna¡­¡± Joe said. Tommy had mentioned this earlier, and now everyone knew about it, feeling indignant on Brenna¡¯s behalf.


    With a small frown, Thiago pulled out his phone and sent Brenna a quick update about what had happened.


    He was protective of Brenna and didn¡¯t fully support her rtionship with Ethan. However, seeing that Brenna seemed to have feelings for Ethan, and considering the recent string of incidents, Ethan had treated Brenna fairly well, so he hadn¡¯t voiced any opposition to their rtionship.


    ¡°Ethan¡¯s mother really crossed the line this time,¡± he said.


    Stepping out of the elevator, Brenna nced at her phone and spotted Thiago¡¯s message. The words only made her mood worse.


    ni hurried over, trying hard to look calm. Earlier that day, Ethan had made the rounds through the office with Gracie at his side. Every employee had seen how his actions¡­


    Attention centered on Gracie, his smile evident, warmer than any smile he had given Brenna.


    By now, the entirepany buzzed with whispers. Secretaries traded theories, and even the ounting department spected that Ethan had lost interest in Brenna.


    Still, ni remained courteous to Brenna. ¡°Miss Harper, is there something you need? I will let Mr. Mitchell know you¡¯re here before you go inside his office.¡±


    For a split second, Brenna froze. She could see that ni was hiding something.


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    ¡°Since when do you need to inform Mr. Mitchell of my arrival like this?¡± Brenna¡¯s voice turned icy. She pulled out her phone and called Ethan on the spot. ¡°ni just said she needs to inform you of my arrival before letting me go to your office,¡± she said to Ethan.


    Just then, the CEO¡¯s office door flew open. Ethan stepped out, his expression cold. ¡°I didn¡¯t ask you to do that,¡± he said to ni.


    Momentster, the clicking of heels followed. Gracie appeared right behind him, perfectlyposed and wearing a gentle smile. ¡°Miss Harper, I was just having a chat with Ethan. I hope you won¡¯t misunderstand anything.¡±


    Brenna was surprised that Gracie spoke Vand¡¯snguage so fluently.


    People always said Gracie was destined for leadership at the Wilson Group, and now, that made perfect sense. She turned heads with her striking looks, but her mastery of Vand¡¯snguage left an even deeper impression. Her sincerity showed in every gesture, and she handled herself with the kind of grace and poise that could win over any crowd.


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 Chapter 943

    ?Chapter 943:


    Still, Brenna found it difficult to like her. It had nothing to do with jealousy. What bothered her was the way ni had seemed so tense and on edge earlier about Gracie talking with Ethan.


    Ethan¡¯s gaze was fixed on ni, and his displeasure was evident.


    ni felt aggrieved. That morning, Ethan had yed tour guide for Gracie, showing her around and making sure she met all the key staff from the secretarial department. His friendly enthusiasm was so out of character that rumors quickly spread.


    Soon after, Ethan and Gracie had locked themselves away in Ethan¡¯s office, leaving everyone outside to guess what they were talking about. When Ethan called ni in to deliver drinks and snacks, she couldn¡¯t help but notice theughter and lighthearted mood between the two.


    Ethan¡¯s treatment of Gracie seemed even warmer than the way he usually treated Brenna.


    Now that Brenna had arrived, ni was worried that Brenna would think something was going on between Ethan and Gracie.


    She was just trying to cover for Ethan by doing that.


    Had she done anything wrong?


    Her voice trembled. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, I¡­¡±


    ¡°When did I ever ask you to inform me of Brenna¡¯s arrival before letting her go to my office?¡± Ethan said, his voice calm but carrying a tension that made it clear he was anything but pleased.


    Frustration welled up inside ni, but she managed to swallow it. She decided she would exin herself to Ethanter in private.


    She said, ¡°You never said that to me. I made the decision on my own.¡± Brenna watched the scene and wanted tough. She believed this only confirmed that Ethan and Gracie had done something they shouldn¡¯t have.


    She knew that Ethan was strict with his employees. Secretaries like ni would never step out of line or make decisions on their own; ni was clearly just following Ethan¡¯s directions.


    Although Brenna wanted to trust Ethan, the scene before her was telling her a different story.


    ¡°Did I walk in at the wrong moment?¡± said Brenna, her voice tinged with anger. Ethan realized immediately that she had misunderstood the situation. Despite appearing busy, every secretary within earshot was eager to soak up the drama. Thest thing Ethan wanted was for his private life to be part of the office rumor mill.


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    ¡°Brenna, you¡¯ve misunderstood the situation. Let¡¯s step inside my office and talk things through.¡±


    Actually, the moment Ethan stepped out of the office and saw Brenna, he recalled her telling him not to be alone with another woman.


    Today, he had failed to do that, and a wave of regret washed over him.


    But he hadn¡¯t done anything inappropriate.


    Right now, Brenna seemed angry.


    Ethan¡¯s first instinct was to exin everything to her, but not in front of an audience.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go inside my office, Brenna,¡± said Ethan, reaching out to take her hand and lead her toward his office.


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 Chapter 944

    ?Chapter 944:


    Without hesitation, Brenna shook off his hand. ¡°No, that won¡¯t be necessary. I wouldn¡¯t want to interrupt anything important. Clearly, I came at the wrong time.¡±


    A faint smile flickered across Gracie¡¯s face as she watched the drama unfold from behind Ethan. She was happy that Brenna misunderstood the situation.


    She stepped forward with an air of politeness. ¡°You must be Ethan¡¯s girlfriend, right? Please don¡¯t take this the wrong way. We were only discussing work. There¡¯s a minor issue with mypany, and he¡¯s been kind enough to help me find solutions.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing for me to misunderstand. Go ahead and finish whatever you were talking about. I won¡¯t get in your way,¡± said Brenna. She didn¡¯t care if Ethan¡¯s coworkers whispered behind her back or if Gracie thought she was too blunt. Speaking her mind had alwayse naturally to her.


    Without another word, Brenna turned to leave.


    Ethan furrowed his brow, feeling frustrated, and followed her into the elevator. ¡°Brenna, please, don¡¯t misunderstand the situation. There¡¯s nothing between Gracie and me,¡± said Ethan, his tone sincere. ¡°Tell me what I have to do for you to trust me.¡±


    ¡°I never said I don¡¯t trust you,¡± said Brenna, her voice cold as she stared at the wall, clearly done with the conversation and unwilling to say another word.


    Ethan stood silent, feeling helpless. He was really bad atforting people.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be like this, Brenna. I really was just helping her with a small issue.¡± He moved to block the control panel, keeping her from choosing a floor.


    Shoving him out of the elevator with little patience, Brenna pressed the button and let the doors slide shut.


    Left alone, Ethan could only stare as the elevator doors closed, not knowing what to do.


    Gracie walked over. ¡°Ethan, why does your girlfriend take things so personally? We didn¡¯t do anything inappropriate, but she wouldn¡¯t even give us a chance to exin.¡±


    Disappointment colored her expression as she watched Ethan¡¯s unreadable face. She wondered what he was thinking now.


    Was there a growing rift between Ethan and Brenna now? Were they thinking about breaking up?


    Gracie believed she needed to stir things up a bit more. She said, ¡°Maybe I should go talk to her. I think she just misunderstood us.¡±


    ¡°No need for you to do that. Let¡¯s wrap up for the day. There¡¯s no rush; getting the Vice President¡¯swork isn¡¯t something anyone aplishes in one go. Doing things step by step is the only way forward. We¡¯ll organize a wee dinner next week and invite the city¡¯s most influential people. That will give you a chance to meet everyone who matters,¡± said Ethan, outlining his n, though Gracie found itcking.


    She wanted Ethan to introduce her to the key figures controlling Shirie¡¯s economy.


    ¡°Alright, step by step it is,¡± replied Gracie. Inside, she was delighted to see the rift forming between Brenna and Ethan. Triumph lit her face as she left the office in an upbeat mood.


    Once Gracie had left, Ethan fixed his gaze on ni. ¡°Come with me.¡±


    There was no doubt in his mind¡ªni had yed a big part in how things had turned out today.


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 Chapter 945

    ?Chapter 945:


    Ethan¡¯s tone was harsh. ¡°Why did you stop Brenna from entering my office directly today?¡±


    ni¡¯s whole body tensed. Most days, Ethan¡¯s serious attitude made him seem just cold, but now, there was a sharp edge in his voice that left her afraid for her job.


    ¡°I-I¡¯m sorry, Mr. Mitchell,¡± stammered ni, her nerves on full disy. Losing a position like this wasn¡¯t something she could afford. Yes, her credentials wouldnd her another job, but she didn¡¯t want to lose her current job because of such a small matter.


    Ethan had zero tolerance for leaks or gossip, and he certainly wouldn¡¯t want a secretary he couldn¡¯t trust.


    ¡°Speak,¡± said Ethan, gripping his phone as he wondered how he would clear things up with Brenna.


    ni had to be honest. ¡°I¡¯ve never seen you go out of your way for a woman who isn¡¯t rted to you. Ever since lunch, you¡¯ve been alone with Miss Wilson, and you even asked me to bring coffee and fruit for her. The whole thing felt off. You were behind closed doors with her for so long. I thought there might be something going on between you two.¡±


    She looked at Ethan nervously.


    A heavy frown clouded Ethan¡¯s face as he pounded the table. ¡°Who gave you the right to jump to conclusions like that? What do you think I could possibly be doing with her? Our whole conversation was about fixing herpany¡¯s problems. She¡¯s just stepped into the role of CEO, and her team won¡¯t listen to her. In this entire city, I¡¯m the only person she trusts, so she asked me for guidance.¡±


    Disappointment took hold of Ethan, and his voice faltered. ¡°Why am I even exining myself to you?¡±


    The slight shift in his tone made ni hopeful that her job might be safe after all.


    ¡°My only concern was that something could be misinterpreted. If Miss Harper had walked in and seen something inappropriate, it would be my fault,¡± she said.


    Irritation filled Ethan¡¯s next words. ¡°Now my girlfriend is upset because of this misunderstanding. Tell me how to fix this.¡±


    ni replied, ¡°I honestly don¡¯t know how to make this right.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s stare was as cold as steel, sending a chill through her. ¡°That¡¯s not my problem. Come up with a solution, or you¡¯ll be out of a job.¡±


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    Uncertainty crept into ni¡¯s voice. ¡°Should I go exin things to Miss Harper?¡±


    Ethan shook his head instantly. ¡°That would just make things even worse.¡± After a quick nce at the time, he added, ¡°You have thirty minutes until you can get off work today. Find a solution by then, or you will be fired.¡±


    Anxious and rattled, ni left the office. Her colleagues quickly crowded around her.


    ¡°Did you survive in there? You¡¯re not fired, right?¡± They bombarded her with questions, worry etched on every face.


    Nearly at her wits¡¯ end, ni said, ¡°Can someone help me figure out how to get Miss Harper to forgive Mr. Mitchell? If I don¡¯t sort this out before I get off work, I¡¯ll be out of a job.¡±


    A flurry of suggestions erupted as her team tried to help.


    None of the ideas seemed realistic, though ni listened carefully, hoping for inspiration.


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 Chapter 946

    ?Chapter 946:


    Rex, who had been frowning, finally spoke. ¡°When I try to appease my girlfriend, she always says she wants to see sincere effort.¡± Several women around the table quickly agreed, nodding.


    That gave ni a sudden jolt of hope. ¡°Right, maybe Miss Harper is just specting; she didn¡¯t actually see anything. What if Mr. Mitchell offered to show her the security footage? Would that convince her?¡±


    A secretary across the room shook her head. ¡°No way. If Miss Harper watches the recordings and sees them alone together, she¡¯ll only get angrier.¡±


    ni¡¯s panic grew. ¡°What am I supposed to do now? I can¡¯t lose this job. Someone, please, just give me something that will work!¡±


    Just then, they noticed Ethan emerging from his office, and they fell silent. Ethan had overheard every word they had said, and a n had already formed in his mind. ¡°Back to work, all of you.¡±


    As Ethan stepped into the elevator, a stern look on his face, ni¡¯s relief was almost palpable. She believed he wouldn¡¯t fire her now.


    Ethan walked out of the elevator to find Greta and Lorna approaching him. Greta quickly said, ¡°Mr. Moreno is with Brenna in her office. She looked really upset when she came back.¡±


    Lorna shot Greta a pointed look.


    Ethan nodded and strode straight into Brenna¡¯s office without knocking.


    The moment Ethan stepped inside, Brenna¡¯s cold gaze locked with his. Without hesitation, she snatched her bag from the table and headed for the door to leave.


    Across the room, Thiago blinked in surprise at Ethan¡¯s arrival. In his mind, as a proud CEO, Ethan wouldn¡¯te to apologize to Brenna like this.


    Yet, Ethan had shown up, disying genuine sincerity to exin things to Brenna.


    Trying her best to sound calm, Brenna said to Ethan, ¡°Move aside. I¡¯d like to leave now.¡±


    Her frustration lingered over Ethan¡¯s broken promise¡ªhe wasn¡¯t supposed to meet Gracie alone.


    Thiago felt awkward but couldn¡¯t leave since Ethan blocked the doorway, preventing Brenna from exiting. He was trapped there, watching the scene unfold.


    ¡°Please listen to me,¡± Ethan said, holding Brenna¡¯s arms as she tried to break free from his grip and leave the office.


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    Every bit of his focus was on making her listen, careful not to hurt her but intent on keeping her from leaving.


    ¡°Could you please at least let me exin things to you?¡± Ethan asked, hoping she would stop resisting.


    Stopping her struggle, Brenna met his gaze and said, ¡°Alright, then exin. Why were you alone with Gracie in your office? And why did your secretary refuse to let me go inside your office? What were you hiding?¡±


    Watching Brenna¡¯s angry expression, Ethan felt a bit delighted. Her anger proved that she cared about him. She was jealous of seeing him with another woman.


    Despite that, Ethan knew he couldn¡¯t let Brenna continue to be angry with him. He fished out his phone, having already prepared the proof she needed, and yed the security footage in his office for her.


    ¡°Everything that happened was strictly business. If you don¡¯t believe me, you can watch it for yourself,¡± Ethan said, offering the phone for her to see.


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 Chapter 947

    ?Chapter 947:


    Intuition had already told Brenna that Ethan hadn¡¯t crossed any lines. Eyes fixed on the screen, she watched the sped-up footage.


    Scene after scene made things clear: there was nothing questionable between Ethan and Gracie. Both sat at opposite ends of a broad desk while ni came and¡­


    They went several times. Their conversation looked light, even pleasant, but it was clear they had done nothing inappropriate.


    Ethan said, ¡°I know I shouldn¡¯t have met with her alone. There¡¯s no excuse for breaking my word. It won¡¯t happen again. Next time, every meeting with her will be in public ces. I hope you can forgive me.¡±


    Ethan spoke with gentle sincerity, very different from his usualmanding presence that Thiago knew.


    A sudden cough from Thiago broke the moment. ¡°Am I invisible? Maybe you two would rather I step out so you can finish this discussion?¡±


    Both Ethan and Brenna nced at him. Brenna said, ¡°No need for that; I¡¯m getting off work now.¡±


    Ethan said to Thiago, ¡°We¡¯re grabbing dinner together. Want toe along?¡±


    Thiago felt resigned. ¡°Do you really want me tagging along as a third wheel? But if you insist, I will join you.¡±


    ¡°Just leave. Ellie¡¯s probably waiting for you,¡± said Brenna, giving him a pointed look.


    Just then, Brenna¡¯s phone started to ring. She nced at the unfamiliar number and answered the call.


    ¡°Miss Harper, it¡¯s Gracie. Sorry for calling you out of the blue.¡± Politeness colored Gracie¡¯s words.


    Brenna¡¯s mood soured again. Feeling that Gracie was calling to provoke her, she put the call on speaker for Ethan to hear. ¡°Why did you call?¡±


    Her voice soft as ever, Gracie replied, ¡°The Vand branch of the Wilson Group is throwing a formal dinner this Saturday to introduce me officially. I wanted to invite you; will youe?¡±


    Lowering his voice, Ethan exined, ¡°I wasn¡¯t in the loop about this invitation. While I did suggest hosting a wee dinner and gathering Shirie¡¯s elite, I didn¡¯t tell her to invite you.¡±


    Brenna gave him a cold look and replied, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll be there. Is there anything else?¡±


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    ¡°That¡¯s all for now. I¡¯ll see you at the event,¡± Gracie replied, her tone polite as ever, before ending the call. The moment the call disconnected, any trace of her smile faded as she tugged her sleeve down to hide a dark bruise on her arm. Resolve shed in her eyes. She was determined to try to win Ethan¡¯s heart no matter what.


    Without wasting a moment, Ethan held Brenna¡¯s hand. ¡°What would you like to eat tonight?¡±


    Brenna was still in a bad mood, so she just shrugged. ¡°Anything is fine.¡± Night had already settled by the time Brenna made it home, well past nine o¡¯clock. Giselle went to her room to talk to her.


    ¡°Mom, has Dade back yet?¡± Brenna asked casually.


    A gentle smile yed across Giselle¡¯s face. ¡°He¡¯s still out. Business dinner. He won¡¯t be home before eleven. By the way, a colleague¡¯s son just returned from overseas. He¡¯s handsome, charming, and refined. Would you like to meet him?¡±


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 Chapter 948

    ?Chapter 948:


    That suggestion caught Brenna off guard. ¡°Are you really trying to set me up on a blind date?¡±


    Giselle leaned in with an earnest look. ¡°Listen to me¡ªI¡¯m not joking about this. You should never put Ethan on a pedestal. Men born into privilege often have questionable morals.¡±


    Confusion tugged at Brenna as she studied her mother¡¯s frown. Only days before, Giselle had weed Ethan warmly at dinner. What could have possibly changed her mind about Ethan so quickly?


    Brenna said, ¡°Mom, I thought you liked Ethan when he was here before. Has something happened?¡±


    Giselle shot Brenna a sideways nce. ¡°Have you not checked the newstely? He¡¯s been spotted embracing another woman, and heaven knows what they have done behind closed doors.¡±


    ¡°Why are you acting this way? I already know about Gracie. She and Ethan have been friends for ages¡ªnothing more. Ethan isn¡¯t the type of man who cheats, Mom,¡± Brenna said.


    Brenna could not understand why her mother, who used to be reasonable and trusted Ethan, was saying this now.


    Giselle sighed, the sound heavy with disappointment. ¡°You¡¯ve only just started seeing him, and you¡¯re already rushing to his defense. You¡¯re not even engaged, and already, you jump to defend him. It¡¯s wise to be careful; never trust a man too easily, do you understand?¡±


    With a gentle tug, Giselle guided Brenna to sit. ¡°You barely go out except for work, and you don¡¯t hear much gossip. Do you have any idea what people are saying about Ethantely?¡±


    Annoyance prickled at Brenna¡¯s nerves. She didn¡¯t want to hear another negative word about Ethan, especially not from her own mother. It felt as if her parents were determined to find fault with him.


    ¡°The only rumor I know is that people in thepany all think Ethan and Gracie used to be in a rtionship.¡±


    Her mind whirled, reying recent workce rumors and dreading what her mother might say next.


    Concern softened Giselle¡¯s features. ¡°There¡¯s a reason people say love clouds a woman¡¯s mind. I see it in you now. You used to be so rational, never quick to take sides. But when I say one critical word about Ethan, you leap to defend him.¡±


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    For a moment, Brenna wanted to retort, but meeting Giselle¡¯s gaze, she reflected on her words just now. Yes, her mother was right. She could not bear hearing anyone criticize Ethan now.


    Giselle said, ¡°Just today, a coworker of mine who lives near Ethan¡¯s ce mentioned something odd. She doesn¡¯t know Ethan personally, but she knows his car. One night, while she was waiting for her husband toe home, she caught sight of Ethan helping a blonde woman out of his car. They headed inside the house together. What do you think they did?¡±


    Relief washed over Brenna as she replied, ¡°I already know that. Ethan just dropped Gracie off and then left right away.¡±


    A loud scoff slipped from Giselle; she was unimpressed by her daughter¡¯s quick defense. ¡°And what makes you so sure about that? That apartment is where Ethan has lived for years, near the Mitchell Group headquarters. Gracie¡¯s the reason he just reced all the furniture. Ask yourself, what sort of connection would make him do that? Do you really believe that Ethan just lets anyone stay in his property? Their rtionship must be special. You are not thinking clearly since you are in love with him.¡±


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 Chapter 949

    ?Chapter 949:


    With a sharp tap to Brenna¡¯s forehead, Giselle drove her point home. ¡°Snap out of it! Many women want to be Ethan¡¯s girlfriend since he is exceptional. I think you should consider dating someone more low-key.¡±


    Self-doubt crept in as Brenna muttered to herself, ¡°Am I really not thinking straight?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely. Take your mother¡¯s advice¡ªnever trust a man too easily, and don¡¯t believe everything they say.¡± Giselle¡¯s tone softened. ¡°I¡¯ve set up a lunch for you to meet that man I mentioned tomorrow at that private restaurant near yourpany.¡±


    A stubborn look crossed Brenna¡¯s face; betraying Ethan wasn¡¯t an option. ¡°Please, Mom, give it a rest. You sound just like Ethan¡¯s own mother, trying to dictate whom I am dating¡­¡±


    Frustration flickered in Giselle¡¯s eyes, but she conceded the point. ¡°Alright, no lunch meeting. You¡¯re still young; there¡¯s no rush to settle down. Just promise me you¡¯ll be careful and keep your guard up.¡±


    Despite what she said, Giselle couldn¡¯t help herself. She sent Brenna a photo of the striking young man she had mentioned. Brenna looked at it; she thought he looked like a college heartthrob.


    The next morning, Brenna headed to work and spotted Alec waiting by the parking lot next to the office building. As soon as her car rolled to a stop, Alec hurried over, pulled the door open for her, and ced his hand above the frame to shield her from hitting her head.


    The gesture unsettled her. The same man who used to scold and beat her was now going out of his way to be considerate to her. It didn¡¯t sit right with her. Deep down, she couldn¡¯t shake the suspicion that he had some hidden agenda. But Alec behaved with sincerity, never saying anything out of line.


    ¡°There¡¯s no need for this,¡± Brenna said, her tone t.


    ¡°What are you saying? I¡¯m a security guard. This is part of my job. Don¡¯t let it bother you, Brenna. I¡¯m being paid for this. I¡¯m just doing my duty; that¡¯s all there is to it.¡± There was no trace of arrogance in Alec¡¯s voice, none of the superiority he used to carry as the CEO of a listedpany.


    Brenna struggled to understand how someone could go through such a tant fall in status and still act soposed.


    Alec remainedposed, a calm smile resting on his face. She looked at him and said, ¡°You used to run the Barrett Group. Now, you¡¯re standing here in a security uniform¡ªare you really not upset about it?¡±


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    Still smiling, Alec replied, ¡°It¡¯s true my life is not asfortable as it once was. But I¡¯m getting by. When I¡¯ve saved enough, I¡¯ll pay you back for those clothes you bought for my familyst time. What really brightens my day is seeing you. You¡¯re nothing like Isabe and Mack. You actually have a heart. When I asked them for a bit of help when I was broke, you know what they did? They kicked me out and had me beaten up. Those heartless people¡­ I hate them!¡± Then, heughed. ¡°But guess what? The money Denis gave Isabe? Gone. The job he arranged for Mack? Canceled. And every cent he handed to Ruby? Taken back. They¡¯re broke now. Tell me that¡¯s not karma. They had iting, for treating me like I was nothing.¡±


    His grin widened. ¡°I even heard their house caught fire. They¡¯ve got nowhere to live now. Serves them right. And the cherry on top? Mack lost his job. Now they¡¯re out there, begging to survive. I am so happy.¡±


    Brenna realized now that her social circle was too small, as she was only learning about such news now.


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 Chapter 950

    ?Chapter 950:


    ¡°Congrattions then. Looks like you¡¯re doing better than they are now,¡± she said tly, then turned and walked away.


    Alec, in a good mood, started humming as he strolled into the building. A younger guard came up to him, offered him a cigarette, and lit it for him before asking with interest, ¡°Sir, what¡¯s your connection with Miss Harper?¡±


    Brenna remained unaware of their chat or whether Alec¡¯s words were even true. Still, a part of her did feel some quiet satisfaction with the news. After all, Ruby used to beat her and let her go hungry for days.


    At lunchtime, Brenna headed to the cafeteria and made a point of asking Ethan to eat with her.


    After getting their meals and settling at a corner table, she leaned in slightly and asked, ¡°Did you have anything to do with Alec getting his job here?¡±


    Ethan shook his head. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t say that. Thepany was hiring security guards, specifically men under forty-five. Alec applied but didn¡¯t make the cut. I just happened to be downstairs when he spotted me and started buttering me up. We chatted a little, but I never said he should be hired. HR probably knows I rarely engage with strangers. Maybe the fact that I talked to him made them think he had some kind of connection with me. That might have helped him get the job. I heard they¡¯re paying him a supervisor¡¯s sry.¡±


    Brenna furrowed her brow. ¡°So that¡¯s how he got his job. I thought you put in a word for him. That does sound like something he¡¯d pull. Still, it¡¯s hard to grasp how someone who once ran the Barrett Group can swallow his pride and settle for the position of a security guard.¡±


    ¡°If it bothers you, I can talk to HR. They¡¯ll find a reason to let him go,¡± Ethan said casually, still chewing as he lifted his eyes, only to notice Greta watching him.


    The moment their eyes met, she turned away.


    Brenna, with her back to Greta, was unaware of this.


    She replied, ¡°No need for that. Life¡¯s already tough enough for him.¡±


    Ethan, well-acquainted with how the wealthy operated, found it strange. Most people in Alec¡¯s situation would struggle to cope with such a steep fall from power, but Alec had epted the situation with ease.


    He said, ¡°Maybe he has some hidden agenda. I¡¯ll arrange for someone to keep tabs on him. You don¡¯t need to stress about it.¡±


    Brenna gave a small nod. ¡°Yes, keep watching him. I can¡¯t shake the feeling that he¡¯s up to something.¡±


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    That evening, when Brenna got home, she was surprised to see Ernst already there.


    ¡°Rosie showed up at thepany today for a business meeting,¡± Ernst said with a trace of sarcasm. ¡°Guess who she brought with her?¡±


    ¡°Who?¡± Brenna asked.


    ¡°Mack.¡± Ernst let out a dry chuckle and shook his head. ¡°I don¡¯t even know when those two started teaming up.¡±


    Brenna decided to share Alec¡¯s situation with Ernst.


    As the family gathered around the dinner table, conversation shifted to Alec and his troubles.


    No one at the table trusted Alec. Each person urged Brenna to be cautious, asking her to keep her distance from him.


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 Chapter 951

    ?Chapter 951:


    Giselle showed the most concern. ¡°Alec isn¡¯t as simple as he pretends to be. He probably wants you to take care of him after his retirement. Brenna, don¡¯t let him fool you, or you might fall into his trap.¡± With a quiet nod, Brenna chose not to argue.


    Shepard, however, saw things differently. ¡°Men who once tasted sess never settle quietly. Alec isn¡¯t reaching out just for your care; he¡¯s likely got another n in mind. We have to keep our eyes open, especially you, Brenna. If he contacts you, let me know right away.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not foolish, Dad. You don¡¯t have to be this worried,¡± said Brenna, who understood Shepard¡¯s warning but felt he was being overly cautious.


    ¡°Just follow my advice. You¡¯re still new to this business world. People can be more dangerous than you think. Trust me on this,¡± Shepard said firmly.


    Giselle said, ¡°Yeah. Listen to your father.¡±


    Brenna agreed, saying, ¡°I¡¯ll be careful from now on.¡±


    Hearing this, Giselle and Shepard finally rxed a little.


    Then, Giselle brought up rumors about Ethan and Gracie. Ethan instantly became Giselle and Shepard¡¯s target of criticism.


    ¡°I used to think Ethan was reliable. Now, he seems just like another yboy. I don¡¯t want him marrying you,¡± Shepard said to Brenna, making his disapproval clear.


    Giselle chimed in, ¡°I feel the same way. Brenna and Ethan just aren¡¯t right for each other. I even tried setting Brenna up on a blind date, but she wouldn¡¯t hear of it.¡±


    Having spent time with Ethan yesterday, Ernst spoke up for his friend. ¡°You¡¯ve got Ethan all wrong. He¡¯s been keeping his distance from Gracie. They haven¡¯t met up in ages.¡±


    Giselle shot him a disapproving look. ¡°He¡¯s seeing your sister, so he¡¯ll naturally put on an act in front of you. You can¡¯t expect him to tell you everything.¡±


    The exchange¡­


    This left Brenna at a loss for words. Her parents¡¯ opinion of Ethan seemed to be dropping by the minute.


    Ernst gave up trying to reason with them, frustration settling in.


    Later that night, Brennay in bed, exchanging voice messages with Ellie. Their conversation turned to Ethan and Gracie, and Ellie didn¡¯t trust Ethan much, either.


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    The next morning, Brenna let herself sleep in, not waking until after nine. Later, she met Ellie, and together, they drove into town, making their way to a mall.


    With the new year drawing close, Ellie wanted to buy her mother a beautiful ne. Brenna also wanted to find something special for her mother, so the two decided to go shopping together.


    Store after store, they wandered through disy cases, but nothing caught their eye.


    Inside a spacious jewelry boutique, ss counters sparkled with jade bangles while shelves gleamed with a rainbow of gemstones and glimmering gold.


    Wandering from one glittering disy to another, Brenna suddenly spotted a gold ne, its emerald pendant catching the light. She believed Giselle would like it.


    ¡°Hi there, could I see this one up close?¡± Brenna asked, pointing to the elegant ne behind the ss.


    ¡°Miss, you have a great eye. This piece just arrived yesterday. The emerald is genuine, some of the best quality we carry. Is it for you, or is it a gift?¡± the clerk said, her enthusiasm shining through. She carefully retrieved the ne.


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 Chapter 952

    ?Chapter 952:


    ¡°I¡¯m giving it to my mother as a gift,¡± Brenna replied, then gently draped the ne around Ellie¡¯s neck for a better look.


    ¡°It looks great on thisdy,¡± the clerk remarked, fastening the sp so that Brenna could see how it looked when worn.


    Brenna noticed a passage leading to another section of the boutique, and her gaze drifted over andnded on two familiar figures.


    She was stunned, thinking she might be mistaken, so she took a closer look. Ellie trailed along, curiosity piqued, until both saw Ethan and Gracie browsing a disy brimming with gold bracelets, glittering nes, and sleek tinum earrings.


    ¡°Should I walk over and ask them what they are doing?¡± Ellie said, feeling angry but seeking Brenna¡¯s opinion.


    Brenna gently shook her head and reached for her phone to send Ethan a message.


    ¡°Are you free? Want to grab lunch with me?¡±


    The instant Ethan¡¯s phone chimed with Brenna¡¯s custom notification ringtone, he grabbed it from his pocket without hesitation.


    He quickly typed a reply.


    ¡°Yeah. I¡¯m just helping a friend choose some gifts for the staff.¡±


    Brenna shed Ellie the screen and tugged her back a step.


    ¡°Let¡¯s not rush. I want to watch a bit longer,¡± she said in a low voice, thinking that asking a staff member would reveal if Ethan¡¯s story lined up with the truth. She needed to be sure if the gifts were for Gracie or actually forpany employees.


    ¡°What¡¯s the price of this ne?¡± Brenna asked, gesturing to the emerald pendant.


    The clerk answered, ¡°That¡¯s our most exclusive piece, priced at one million and two hundred thousand.¡±


    Unfazed by the figure, Brenna pointed across the store. ¡°How much are those pieces over there?¡±


    ¡°Everything on that side is under ten thousand. Some earrings start at just a few hundred.¡±


    Looking over, Ellie spotted Gracie fumbling with an earring, her fingers struggling with the sp no matter how many times she tried.


    Meanwhile, Ethan lingered nearby, making no move to step in and help her. A sales associate stepped in, saying with a polite nod, ¡°Miss, may I assist you with that?¡±


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    Ignoring the offer, Gracie kept up her act, continuing to fumble with the jewelry. She sent Ethan a quick nce and said, ¡°I just cannot seem to manage this. Ethan, could you give me a hand?¡±


    Ellie, under her breath, muttered, ¡°Unbelievable.¡± Tugging Brenna along, she walked over.


    The sales assistant near them asked in a loud voice, ¡°Miss, do you still wish to purchase this?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely. There¡¯s no reason not to,¡± Brenna answered.


    The moment Ethan heard Brenna¡¯s voice, his head turned. A smile broke across his face, and he left Gracie¡¯s side, approaching Brenna. ¡°What a pleasant surprise to see you here!¡±


    Brenna watched Ethan, noticing that he looked anything but guilty¡ªjust surprised and genuinely happy. He asked her warmly, ¡°Is there anything here that caught your eye?¡±


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 Chapter 953

    ?Chapter 953:


    Frustration flickered in Gracie¡¯s eyes. She had spent a lot of effort persuading Ethan, who never had a moment to spare, to join her on this outing. Though a secretary could handle such things, she had used it as an excuse to spend time with him and get closer to him.


    Everything had been going ording to n until Brenna appeared unexpectedly and ruined it all.


    She could only watch as Ethan ced his hand on Brenna¡¯s shoulder, a gentle smile meant only for Brenna. It was the kind of look she had never received from him.


    Despite knowing Ethan for ages, Gracie couldn¡¯t understand why he seemed drawn to Brenna. Masking her frustration, she gripped the earring and walked over, maintaining an elegant smile.


    ¡°Miss Harper! I never expected to run into you here!¡± Gracie said with exaggerated cheer, showing the earring to Brenna. ¡°Please, do not get the wrong idea. I only asked Ethan to help me shop for gifts today. I¡¯m still learning the ropes as Vand¡¯s new CEO and don¡¯t know my way around yet. Even for something as ordinary as gift shopping, I needed his help. He was kind-hearted enough to take time out from work just for me. I really do feel bad for pulling him away from his responsibilities. I hope you don¡¯t misunderstand anything.¡±


    Gracie turned to Ethan and added, ¡°Isn¡¯t that right, Ethan?¡±


    She knew how women usually thought. In her view, a man shopping with someone who wasn¡¯t his girlfriend was nothing short of a betrayal. She believed Brenna would get angry with Ethan. Maybe she would even be furious enough to confront him in front of everyone, causing a scene that would leave him feeling embarrassed.


    Brenna caught a glimpse of Ethan¡¯s icy expression. He clearly wasn¡¯t pleased by anything Gracie had just said. For a long time, Gracie had always hovered near him, her interest in him obvious, and only after Ethan rejected her did she finally start to keep some distance from him.


    Their interaction had increased recently. At first, Ethan had paid no mind to it, but now, he sensed that Gracie might have hidden motives.


    Arriving in Vand as the new CEO for the Wilson Group couldn¡¯t be Gracie¡¯s only reason for being here. There was likely more to it.


    Ethan gave a small nod, confirming Gracie¡¯s words.


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    It did not matter that he hadn¡¯t agreed immediately when Gracie had asked him to help her; the point was, he was here now, joining Gracie on a jewelry shopping trip, something anyone could misunderstand, and Brenna had caught the whole thing.


    What good would his exnation do anyway?


    Still, wanting to set the record straight, he turned to Brenna and said, ¡°I¡¯m not here to help her buy anything personal. She¡¯s picking out gifts for thepany staff.¡±


    After a pause, he continued, ¡°This shop has affordable and stylish pieces, ideal forpany presents. What you¡¯ve been eyeing earlier is much more personal, better for loved ones, not employees.¡±


    The message was simple: he was not close to Gracie.


    But Brenna raised her eyebrows. ¡°Is that so? I thought you didn¡¯t have a spare minute these days. How do you manage to squeeze in time for a shopping trip? Wouldn¡¯t it make more sense for her secretary to handle this?¡±


    Searching for the right words, Ethan exined, ¡°She insisted on choosing the gifts herself. I tried to talk her out of it, but she said her secretary has no eye for these things. She wanted to make a strong impression on everyone at work by doing this personally.¡±


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 Chapter 954

    ?Chapter 954:


    Ellie¡¯s patience snapped. ¡°So she wants her employees to be impressed; what does that have to do with you? You going jewelry shopping with a woman who is not your girlfriend is bound to spark rumors. People might think you and Gracie are more than just friends.¡±


    A chill lingered in Ethan¡¯s eyes as he looked at Ellie, silently deciding that she and Thiago were truly a match¡ªequally unbearable in his mind.


    Brushing off Ethan¡¯s cold stare, Ellie fired back, her words even sharper than before, ¡°What¡¯s with the look? Did I say anything wrong? If I remember correctly, you¡¯ve already got a girlfriend; yet here you are, out shopping with another woman. Only a boyfriend or a husband shops with a woman like this. If you like Gracie so much, why don¡¯t you just break up with Brenna and be with her instead?¡±


    Shoving herself between Ethan and Brenna, Ellie tugged Brenna to the side, nting herself firmly as a barrier.


    With pointed conviction, she said to Brenna, ¡°Tell me I¡¯m wrong. He agrees to this only because she matters to him, a lot.¡±


    With a soft nod, Brenna signaled that she saw some truth in Ellie¡¯s words. Gracie said, ¡°That¡¯s not the case at all. Please don¡¯t get the wrong idea. I did pursue Ethan once, but he never responded to my feelings. There¡¯s nothing romantic between us. We¡¯re just close friends.¡±


    Deep down, Gracie understood that Brenna no longer believed everything Ethan said without question. That was exactly what she wanted, and she marveled at how easily she¡¯d created doubt between the pair.


    She almost wanted tough out loud.


    She believed Brenna must be jealous of her rtionship with Ethan.


    ¡°You¡¯re just close friends?¡± Ellie repeated. She was no fool; she understood the implications clearly. ¡°Do you think I will believe that?¡±


    Hearing that, Gracie could barely contain her excitement. She believed Brenna was about to break up with Ethan, and that would mean her n had worked.


    A part of her even wished Brenna woulde over and p her.


    If that happened, Ethan would undoubtedly take her side,fort her, and put all the me on Brenna.


    A deep frown carved lines into Ethan¡¯s face. ¡°Miss Moore, I¡¯d appreciate it if you chose your words carefully. There¡¯s nothing between Gracie and me beyond friendship. Please don¡¯t twist the situation.¡±


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    With a mockingugh, Ellie retorted, ¡°Keep pretending if you want. Anyone can see what¡¯s really happening. The way she looks at you¡ªit¡¯s obvious she¡¯s in love with you.¡±


    She then turned to Brenna. ¡°Brenna, just break up with Ethan.¡±


    Brenna, however, didn¡¯t want to break up with Ethan, as that would y right into Gracie¡¯s hands.


    So, she gently nudged Ellie aside and said, ¡°I believe in him. He¡¯s never betrayed me, and I doubt he ever will. As for Gracie, if Ethan had feelings for her, the two of them would have been together ages ago.¡± Turning to Ethan, her voice softened. ¡°Isn¡¯t that right?¡±


    Relief finally found Ethan, loosening the worry that had been tightening his chest. The thought of Brenna believing Ellie and ending things with him had scared him for a moment. ¡°Yes, I knew you¡¯d understand me. Gracie is nothing more than a friend to me. There¡¯s nothing romantic between us, and there never will be.¡±


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 Chapter 955

    ?Chapter 955:


    Anger simmered within Gracie as she watched Brenna remain soposed.


    How could Brenna not be upset after everything that had happened?


    She clenched the earrings in her hand, a n forming in her mind.


    Extending her hand, she said to Ethan, ¡°Do you think these earrings work? I just can¡¯t seem to get them on. Will you give me a hand?¡± She knew Ethan wouldn¡¯t agree, but she asked anyway.


    Despite feeling angry, Brenna kept her tone cool and said, ¡°These earrings don¡¯t look good.¡±


    A look of surprise flickered across Gracie¡¯s face. ¡°But I think they¡¯re beautiful.¡± She wanted to seek Ethan¡¯s opinion, as he had just said they looked nice. Turning to him, Gracie asked, ¡°Ethan, didn¡¯t you just say these were lovely? Why don¡¯t you help me try them on?¡±


    By now, Ethan saw right through her intentions, and any trace of warmth vanished from his expression.


    ¡°My opinion doesn¡¯t matter; you should decide for yourself,¡± he said, his voice even. Then, he turned to Brenna, his tone softening. ¡°Weren¡¯t you looking for something special? Let me help you pick something.¡± Together, Ethan and Brenna walked away.


    Gracie refused to let things end like this. ¡°Ethan, you promised to help me today. I haven¡¯t made my selection yet. How can you just walk away? I don¡¯t really know what style people in Vand like. I need your help.¡±


    Blocking Gracie¡¯s path, Ellie stepped in with no patience for games. ¡°Let me help you. I¡¯m a fashion designer. If anyone knows how to match jewelry and clothes, it¡¯s me; and I know exactly what¡¯s popr in Vand.¡±


    Gracie¡¯s re was sharp. ¡°That won¡¯t be necessary. I¡¯ve already made up my mind.¡±


    With no hint of subtlety, Ellie said, ¡°All you want is to steal Brenna¡¯s boyfriend.¡±


    Gracie shook her head, her denial firm. ¡°That¡¯s not true. You have no reason to use me of that. I only see Ethan as a friend and sometimes ask for his opinion on things. It¡¯s not like I have anyone else to turn to for advice here.¡±


    Reaching into her purse, Ellie shed her phone. ¡°That¡¯s simple¡ªadd me on Facebook. You cane to me for advice from now on.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t have Facebook.¡± With that, Gracie turned to speak with the store clerk and chose to ignore Elliepletely.


    The sales assistant attending to Brenna held the ne delicately in her hands. ¡°Miss, would you like this ne wrapped up?¡±


    ¡°Yes. Put it in a nice gift box. It¡¯s a present,¡± Brenna replied.


    ¡°Is it for your mother?¡± Ethan asked while looking at the jewelry on disy. With Christmas just around the corner, he figured it was a good time to pick out something special for Brenna.


    Brenna nodded, then cast a quick look toward Ellie, who was blocking Gracie, talking to her about something. Gracie looked angry.


    Gracie¡¯s frustration brought a smile to Brenna¡¯s face.


    ¡°I¡¯d like to see that one,¡± Ethan pointed toward a ne adorned with nine shimmering diamonds.


    The sales assistant handed the ne over with care. ¡°You have excellent taste, sir.¡±


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 Chapter 956

    ?Chapter 956:


    Ethan took the ne, stepped closer to Brenna, and draped it around her neck. A warm smile settled on his face as he fastened the sp.


    Gracie watched the scene from a distance and clenched her fists in anger. She had asked Ethan to help her try on earrings earlier, but he had refused. Now, without being asked, he was willingly putting a ne on Brenna.


    Ellie caught the shift in Gracie¡¯s expression and chuckled softly. ¡°Miss Wilson, Ethan¡¯s heart belongs to his girlfriend. There¡¯s no way you can get between them.¡±


    Gracie shot her a scathing look, then shoved past her without a word. The sales assistant was still busy wrapping up Gracie¡¯s massive order. It was over 200 items, which would take some time. Gracie decided to interfere with Ethan and Brenna during this time.


    Ethan had been warm to her before. She refused to believe he could turn so cold to her now.


    She marched up to them and nted herself in front of the pair. ¡°I don¡¯t think this suits Miss Harper. It doesn¡¯t look good on her.¡±


    Ethan and Brenna both turned to her with cold expressions. Brenna reached for the mirror handed to her by the sales assistant and lifted it. She studied her reflection with satisfaction. The ne sparkled against her pale skin. It looked like it had been made for her.


    But now that Gracie had said those things, Brenna had no reason to keep the ne on. She turned slightly toward Ethan and said, ¡°I agree. It doesn¡¯t look good. I will take it off. I think it suits Miss Wilson better.¡±


    Gracie¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Yes, it does suit me. Ethan, why don¡¯t you help me try it on?¡±


    Ethan met her gaze and saw the hope in her eyes. For a moment, he hesitated. Slowly, he unfastened the ne from around Brenna¡¯s neck.


    Gracie stepped forward and lifted her hair. She said pointedly, ¡°Ethan, have you forgotten how I helped you in Norview? When no one believed in you, I did. I was the one who backed you. And when yourpetitors tried to bring you down, it was my father who stepped in to help you. That¡¯s how you made it. That¡¯s why you¡¯re standing here today. Now I¡¯m only asking for one thing. Help me put on a ne.¡±


    Gracie kept her smile fixed, and her eyes searched Ethan¡¯s face. And there it was. His guilt was unmistakable.


    Meanwhile, Brenna, who hadn¡¯t spoken for a while, reached out andced Ethan¡¯s fingers with hers. Then, she began to swing it, like a child tugging on someone they trusted. The simple gesture softened him in an instant.


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    Ethan looked back at Gracie, then at the ne in his hand. After a short pause, he turned to the sales associate and offered it to her. ¡°Could you help thisdy try it on, please?¡±


    The smile vanished from Gracie¡¯s face. What was left was a mixture of stunned disbelief and the sting of rejection.


    The sales associate nced between them and quickly understood the situation. It was hard not to feel secondhand embarrassment for Gracie. Still, this wasn¡¯t the first time she¡¯d witnessed a moment like this. Keeping her expression neutral, she stepped forward and fastened the ne around Gracie¡¯s neck.


    ¡°Miss, this ne suits you perfectly,¡± said the sales associate as she handed Gracie a mirror.


    Gracie gazed at her reflection. The ne gleamed against her skin, and in her eyes, it looked even better on her than it had on Brenna. She didn¡¯t care if she liked it or not.


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 Chapter 957

    ?Chapter 957:


    Ethan had picked it, and if Brenna had wanted it, that was reason enough for her to im it.


    ¡°It¡¯s beautiful. I¡¯ll take it,¡± she said.


    Ethan hesitated, but only for a moment. Deep down, he knew what she had said earlier wasn¡¯t wrong. She had helped him when others had walked away and pulled him through missteps he might not have survived alone. With a faint smile, he said, ¡°It looks good on you.¡±


    Gracie lit up at the praise. ¡°Thank you for choosing such a lovely piece for me, Ethan.¡±


    Having sold two expensive nes in one go meant a generousmission.


    The sales associate was visibly happy. She began wrapping the ne.


    Brenna stood by calmly, though a flicker of disappointment settled in her chest. She was a bit displeased with Ethan. She was tired of pretending this didn¡¯t bother her.


    Just then, Ellie stepped beside Ethan and whispered, ¡°You let someone else take the ne your girlfriend picked. Shouldn¡¯t you be choosing an even better one for her now?¡±


    Ethan nced at Brenna. For the first time, he felt troubled by dealing with women.


    Still, he knew he couldn¡¯t let Brenna walk away feeling overlooked. So, he turned back to the disy case and began carefully studying each ne. But Gracie wasn¡¯t finished. Each time Ethan looked at a ne for more than 30 seconds, she would say that it was beautiful. She wasn¡¯t going to let him pick anything for Brenna without interference.


    Brenna smiled knowingly as a clever idea came to her. She pointed to a gaudy and overpriced ne tucked off to the side and asked Ethan sweetly, ¡°Could you help me try this one?¡±


    Holding the ne up to the mirror, Brenna tried to picture it against her own neckline. Each passing second convinced her more that this piece belonged around the neck of someone older, perhaps her mother or even Ethan¡¯s. Standing nearby, Ethan silently agreed. While he thought the ne wasn¡¯t the best fit for Brenna, he kept his opinion gentle and stepped forward to help fasten it for her.


    ¡°Well? Does it suit me?¡± Brenna asked, her uncertainty evident as she nced over her shoulder at Ethan.


    Choosing his words with care, Ethan hesitated before speaking, knowing Brenna was upset with him right now.


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    ¡°Maybe you should keep looking. There could be something better.¡±


    ¡°Ellie, what¡¯s your opinion?¡± With a practiced smile, Brenna turned to Ellie, hoping for a more supportive answer. She thought Ellie must understand her intentions. She pretended to be charmed by the ne.


    Ellie gave her a thoughtful look, taking in Brenna¡¯s reflection before sneaking a quick nce at Gracie, who looked every bit as confused. Inwardly, Gracie wondered if Vand¡¯s fashion tastes were just different from those in Norview. ¡°That¡¯s a stunning piece. Paired with a velvet gown, it would look incredibly elegant,¡± Ellie said honestly. The ne really was made for women who carried themselves with mature elegance, especially those who favored long dresses.


    Gracie took a nce at Ethan first. Then, watching Brenna admire the ne so much, she said, ¡°Do you think it looks good on me, too? This style is something I¡¯d actually wear.¡±


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 Chapter 958

    ?Chapter 958:


    No emotion showed on Ethan¡¯s face, but he answered harshly, ¡°Feel free to look at others. There¡¯s plenty to choose from here. Why do you always want the one Brenna likes?¡±


    Caught off guard by his bluntness, Gracie stumbled for words, embarrassment shing before she quicklyposed herself. ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant, Ethan. Honestly, I just have simr taste to Miss Harper. When she finds something lovely, I¡¯m drawn to it, too. I was justplimenting her style. She really has an eye for beautiful things!¡±


    The sincerity in her apology seemed to ease Ethan¡¯s irritation. ¡°There are a lot of options. If you need help picking something, just ask the staff.¡±


    A nk expression settled on Brenna¡¯s face as she looked at Gracie. She saw right through the act, knowing Gracie was trying to stop her from buying the ne. ¡°Forget it, Ellie. Since Gracie wants it, let her have it. Would you help me take this off?¡±


    Shaking her head, Ellie grumbled, ¡°What a weird day. Some people only want what you want and then walk away without buying. Are they trying to cause trouble on purpose?¡±


    With a touch of sarcasm, Ellie unsped the ne, handed it to the staff, and added, ¡°If she¡¯s so taken with it, please make sure to wrap it up¡ªshe¡¯ll be taking it.¡±


    Gracie¡¯s lips parted to reply, but the words wouldn¡¯te.


    Saying nothing, Ethan kept his thoughts to himself, recalling the times Gracie had once helped him. He saw no need to make her difort worse.


    A heavy silence from Ethan only seemed to fuel Ellie¡¯s annoyance. Her words grew sharper as she said to Gracie, ¡°Miss Wilson, you¡¯ve shown interest in so many nes here. You¡¯ll be buying them all, right?¡±


    A smile that didn¡¯t quite reach her eyes appeared on Gracie¡¯s face. ¡°Absolutely. My calendar¡¯s full of events. I¡¯ll need every piece toplete my looks.¡±


    Arching an eyebrow, Ellie said, ¡°d to hear it. For a moment, I thought you made things difficult for Brenna to block her from getting anything. Good to know that¡¯s not the case.¡±


    Excitement flickered across the staff member¡¯s face; she was delighted by such a profitable day. Clearing out so much high-end jewelry in one sale promised a heftymission.


    ¡°I¡¯ll get everything packed up for you right away, Miss.¡±


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    With a nod, Gracie agreed. Money meant little to her; these nes were hardly a splurge. If she wanted, she could buy out the entire boutique.


    Still, it stung to have her real motives revealed in front of everyone.


    Losing out to Brenna this early in their rivalry soured her mood.


    Soon, boxes lined the counter, ready for Gracie to pay.


    Gracie paid while Ellie watched her. ¡°Done shopping, Miss Wilson?¡± Ellie said. A curt nod was all Ellie got. Gracie had already pegged Ellie as a meddlesome nuisance she¡¯d rather avoid.


    Across the room, another staff member gathered up the smaller gifts meant for the staff and brought them over for payment.


    Not one to mince words, Ellie said, ¡°Now that you¡¯re done, Brenna and I can shop in peace. You¡¯re not nning to follow us around again, are you?¡±


    Pretending to be apologetic, Gracie replied, ¡°Of course not. It was all just a misunderstanding. Honestly, I only wanted topliment Miss Harper¡¯s excellent taste.¡±


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 Chapter 959

    ?Chapter 959:


    ¡°Good to know. Goodbye, Miss Wilson.¡± Ellie¡¯s wave made her intention clear; she wanted Gracie to leave now.


    Pale with indignation, Gracie bristled at Ellie¡¯s dismissal. Was she asking her to leave?


    Hoping Ethan mighte to her defense, Gracie looked in his direction.


    Yet, Ethan simply said, ¡°Goodbye.¡±


    Gracie looked at Ethan, hoping he would say something to make her stay¡ªor maybe even offer to walk her home.


    But Ethan remained silent.


    ¡°I¡¯m leaving now,¡± Gracie reluctantly said, clinging to the hope that Ethan might change his mind.


    As she walked out, she nced back every few steps. Ethan didn¡¯t even look in her direction. He was already helping Brenna pick out jewelry.


    Gracie¡¯s heart sank in disappointment.


    She drew a long breath. People envied her. The daughter of the Wilson family. A girl with a gilded life, draped in silk and privilege. But what most people didn¡¯t know was that she lived in fear. She was beaten at home, her every act of rebellion met with fists.


    She had wed her way out of that ce.


    She just wanted to seek shelter with Ethan.


    After Gracie left, Brenna stared nkly at the disy. The nes no longer held any appeal. Her mood had soured the moment Gracie appeared. What was the point in choosing anything now?


    She reached for the ne she had nned to buy for Giselle and handed it to the salesperson, ready to pay. But Ethan beat her to it, paying for it. ¡°Wrap up all these nes,¡± he told the staff. He had seen her eyeing them earlier, so he bought them all for her to wear.


    Ellie picked out a ne for her mother and another for her brother¡¯s girlfriend. She chose two more for herself and paid for everything together.


    During the whole exchange, Brenna barely said a word to Ethan. He wanted to say something to lift her mood, but with Ellie and the staff around, he remained silent.


    Once everything was settled, Ellie walked out with Brenna.


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    She wasn¡¯t blind. Ethan clearly wanted to say something to Brenna.


    ¡°I¡¯ll wait in the car.¡± Ellie, clutching her shopping bags, strolled off, leaving Brenna and Ethan alone. She settled into the seat and chatted with Thiago about the day¡¯s events. She also sent him photos of the new nes she had just bought.


    By the store¡¯s entrance, Brenna stood quietly, her eyes fixed on the crowd moving along the street. Then, she turned to Ethan and spoke in a steady voice. ¡°We should take a break. I don¡¯t think we¡¯re right for each other.¡±


    She felt disappointed in Ethan. She had always believed she didn¡¯t need a man in her life, but Ethan had changed that. His sense of responsibility and care for her had touched something deep inside her. She had decided to give him a chance. But after today, she realized that he cared about Gracie a lot, which worried her.


    ¡°Are you breaking up with me?¡± Ethan asked, frustration in his voice. ¡°Gracie and I are just friends. Nothing more. There¡¯s nothing going on between us. Brenna, I¡¯m not trying to cover anything up. If I had feelings for her, I¡¯d admit it. I¡¯d agree to the breakup. But I don¡¯t. You have to believe me. Don¡¯t break up with me because of her. Please, just give me another chance.¡±


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 Chapter 960

    Chapter 960:


    ¡°Let¡¯s take some time to think about whether we¡¯re really a good fit.¡± Brenna pulled out the small shopping bag holding the ne for Giselle and handed the rest to him. ¡°I don¡¯t like any of these. You can return them.¡±


    Without another word, she turned and walked away. Once inside the car, she immediately opened her banking app and returned the money Ethan had sent her before, including what he¡¯d given for the nes.


    A few secondster, Ethan¡¯s phone buzzed. He looked down and saw the bank transfer notification, frowning. He then watched Brenna¡¯s car pull into the street and disappear into traffic. He called her, but she refused to pick up.


    All he could do was send messages to her, asking to meet and offering to exin everything over a meal. But she didn¡¯t reply.


    Ethan¡¯s chest tightened with frustration. Just then, his phone rang. It was Elsa calling.


    ¡°Mom, what is it?¡± Ethan asked.


    ¡°Come home for dinner tonight. Kenny and his girlfriend will be joining us. There are a few things we need to talk about,¡± Elsa cheerfully said.


    Ethan was confused. ¡°You approved them being together?¡±


    He knew his mother too well to believe it. Elsa had never tolerated disobedience, especially from Kenny. But now, she was nning to have a meal with Kenny and¡­


    His girlfriend, as if she had epted them as a couple. ¡°Juste home for dinner,¡± Elsa said firmly, leaving no room for argument.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Ethan ended the call and immediately dialed Kenny.


    When Kenny picked up, Ethan could tell he was in good spirits.


    ¡°Mom says you¡¯re bringing your girlfriend home tonight for dinner. Is that true?¡± Ethan asked.


    ¡°Don¡¯t listen to her nonsense. She found another girl she wants me to marry and tried to set me up on a blind date. I said no,¡± Kenny replied, his mood souring.


    Ethan sighed and shook his head. ¡°Figures. She hasn¡¯t changed one bit. I¡¯m not going home tonight then.¡±


    Their call ended quickly. Back at the office, Ethan pulled out the nes and handed them to Rex. ¡°Use these as rewards for outstanding employees.¡± When the secretaries heard the news, they buzzed with joy.


    After a long day of mall shopping, Brenna and Ellie didn¡¯t return home until after having dinner.


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    As Brenna arrived home, she noticed a car parked right in front of the entrance, obstructing the way. Recognizing it as Ethan¡¯s, irritation surged within her. She stepped out, ready to confront him.


    Ethan, who had been waiting for her for over two hours, climbed out of his car, looking tired and frustrated. ¡°Brenna, please stop being angry with me. There¡¯s really nothing between me and Gracie. You have to believe me.¡±


    Brenna, equally frustrated, shot back, ¡°I do believe there¡¯s nothing romantic between you two. But your attention to her goes beyond normal. You went to the airport with yourpany¡¯s top executives to pick her up, making a big show of your ¡®friendship¡¯ for everyone to see.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s face darkened. ¡°I didn¡¯t go alone; I brought colleagues, which proves it¡¯s just professional.¡±


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 Chapter 961

    ?Chapter 961:


    Brenna let out a skepticalugh. ¡°You¡¯ve met plenty of CEOs, and some are very attractive women. I¡¯ve never seen you throw them a wee party, stay out drinkingte with them, or personally drive them home.¡±


    Her voice turned sharp. ¡°You im it¡¯s just friendship, and I trust that. But why would you move out of your home of years to let her stay there? Are you that generous? She¡¯s the Wilson family¡¯s daughter; can¡¯t she afford her own ce or a hotel? Does she really need you to provide amodation?¡±


    Ethan fumbled for words for a moment, finally exining, ¡°She has severe cleanliness issues and finds hotels too unsanitary.¡±


    Brenna shook her head, unconvinced. ¡°Hotels today are spotless. Why can¡¯t she manage? And if she¡¯s so particr, why is your old ce fine for her?¡±


    Ethan¡¯s response sounded feeble even to himself. ¡°I got all new supplies and sanitized everything to her standards¡­¡±


    After a pause, he said, ¡°Brenna, I only see her as a friend, nothing more. Haven¡¯t I shown that these past few days? What else do you want from me?¡± Ethan let his emotions spill out. His voice carried a sharp edge, tinged with irritation; he believed that Brenna was blowing things out of proportion.


    Brenna¡¯s eyes narrowed, her gaze turning cold. ¡°You think I¡¯m overreacting, making a fuss for no reason, don¡¯t you? Well, you don¡¯t have to endure it anymore. Let¡¯s break up.¡±


    Without hesitation, she brushed past him and stormed into the house. As she crossed the threshold, she caught the household staff¡ªguards and maids¡ªlingering nearby, clearly listening in. They scattered at her approach. Outside, Ethan, seething, mmed his fist against the roof of his car, his face contorted with anger as he watched Brenna disappear into the house.


    He slid back into his vehicle and drove away.


    Inside, Giselle and Shepard descended the stairs, their faces etched with worry, particrly Giselle¡¯s. ¡°Did you and Ethan argue? We could hear it from upstairs.¡±


    ¡°We broke up,¡± Brenna said curtly, then turned to Julia. ¡°There¡¯s a bag in the front passenger seat of my car. Bring it in for me; it¡¯s a gift for my mother.¡± She then said, ¡°I¡¯m exhausted.¡± With that, she headed upstairs, leaving Giselle and Shepard exchanging concerned looks.


    Giselle shook her head. ¡°I¡¯ve never thought Ethan was right for her.¡±


    Shepard nodded in agreement. ¡°He¡¯s impressive in business, no doubt, but as Brenna¡¯s partner? I¡¯m with you; he¡¯s not the one for her. He is too domineering and surrounded by too many admirers. Even if Brenna marries him, it wouldn¡¯tst.¡±


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    Julia returned promptly, handing the bag to Giselle.


    Giselle continued, ¡°I know someone dependable who would be perfect for Brenna. When she¡¯s in a better headspace, I¡¯ll arrange for them to meet.¡± Shepard exhaled heavily. ¡°She¡¯s still young; there¡¯s no hurry for marriage. Let¡¯s not bring this up with her yet; it could upset her more.¡±


    Meanwhile, Rosie ended a phone call and nonchntly sent one hundred thousand dors to a contact, a sly grin spreading across her face. ¡°I can¡¯t believe they actually had an argument. I¡¯m genuinely shocked.¡±


    Maxley, intrigued, leaned in. ¡°Who are you talking about? Why are you so happy?¡±


    Rosie ryed the gossip. ¡°My source said Brenna and Ethan had a massive argument, though the details are unclear. It sounds like they are on the verge of breaking up, possibly over another woman.¡±


    Maxley thought for a moment, recalling recent rumors. ¡°Could it be that talk about Ethan and Gracie? I heard he let her live at his ce. Their rtionship must be special. Maybe Brenna and Ethan argued about this.¡±


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 Chapter 962

    ?Chapter 962:


    Rosie nodded. ¡°I¡¯ll have someone dig deeper. If Gracie¡¯s the cause of their argument, I absolutely need to meet her.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s mood lifted as she glided toward the wine cab. Two crystal sses were quickly in her hands, and she poured a generous serving of red wine before returning with a graceful stride, offering one ss to Maxley.


    With a gentle chime, their sses met. ¡°Cheers.¡±


    A smile tugged at Maxley¡¯s lips as he remarked, ¡°You have no idea what a great opportunity this is, Rosie. The Plieca royal family has built strong ties with the Wilson Group. The Wilson Group has its hands in everything¡ªhousehold products, cars, nes, even oil and weapons. If it brings in profit, the Wilsons are interested.¡±


    Excitement sparkled in Rosie¡¯s eyes. ¡°That¡¯s exactly why I want to connect with Gracie. She pulled off something huge by getting Brenna out of Ethan¡¯s life. I used to rely on Jade to deal with Brenna, but who knew she¡¯d turn out to be so useless? She couldn¡¯t even pull off the simplest task. Now that Gracie¡¯s in the picture, there¡¯s hope for my n again.¡±


    Their sses clinked a second time, both feeling hopeful. Maxley continued, ¡°Plieca¡¯s royal family treats the deal with the Wilson Group like gold. Plieca¡¯s tiny¡ªbarely two million people, and the economy¡¯s not even a blippared to Norview¡¯s toppanies. That¡¯s why no one takes Plieca seriously. Even the Wilson Group has looked down on Plieca. My father has been trying to secure a partnership with the Wilson Group for years, but he¡¯s never seeded.¡±


    A knowing smile yed on Rosie¡¯s lips. ¡°So you¡¯re hoping to cozy up to Gracie, too?¡±


    Maxley didn¡¯t try to hide his ambition. ¡°If I can convince Gracie to initiate a partnership with the royal family of Plieca, my father will undoubtedly pass the throne to me.¡±


    A spark of affection crossed his face as he pressed his lips to Rosie¡¯s. ¡°Wish me luck, darling. I¡¯ll be needing it.¡±


    Recently, Rosie had poured her energy into winning over the Harper family¡¯s shareholders, pitching project after project to sway their votes. Negotiations with Ernst had been constant, each conversation aimed at convincing him to invest more in Plieca to shore up Maxley¡¯s im to the throne.


    Maxley had noticed all of Rosie¡¯s efforts. She had barely paused for breath, darting between the city¡¯s four most powerful families, gathering their support for his cause. He truly believed marrying Rosie was the best decision he¡¯d ever made.


    The next day, Brenna was in her office discussing the design of the newpany building with Thiago.


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    A rough sketch took shape beneath Thiago¡¯s pen¡ªa rectangle where three corners bristled with office towers, and a fourth stood open.


    ¡°My thought is to make each tower thirty-three floors. Sure, we¡¯re small now, but with some effort, we will have seven thousand employees in a few years. We¡¯ll need every bit of space there eventually.¡± With genuine conviction, Thiago looked at Brenna. ¡°Of course, we could start smaller. Just one building, then add more as we grow. That way, we¡¯re not biting off too much. We could have the main building up within a year, and move in the year after. No more putting up with Ethan¡¯s nonsense here.¡±


    Brenna nodded, mulling over the idea. ¡°Sounds practical. One building will work for now. But since we specialize in mechanical design, shouldn¡¯t we think about adding a small processing nt, too?¡±


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 Chapter 963

    ?Chapter 963:


    Thiago offered a small shake of his head. ¡°Our designs belong at the top tier. That means bringing in the best equipment avable¡ªprecision instruments and advanced production lines. Setting up our own factory just for prototypes would burn through resources. Partnering with factories that already specialize in this is a better choice. Outsourcing keeps our costs down.¡±


    Hours slipped by as Brenna and Thiago talked about this topic, neither willing to concede.


    Just then, a sharp knock interrupted their discussion. Lorna stepped inside, her face drawn tight with irritation, as if something truly unpleasant had just happened. ¡°Miss Harper, Mr. Moreno, Gracie has arrived.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s expression turned cold in an instant. She nced at Thiago, her voice tense. ¡°Ethan and I had a fightst night. We broke up. Do you think she¡¯s here to gloat?¡±


    Thiago offered a calm shake of his head. ¡°Honestly, I doubt she¡¯d do something like that. Being the Wilson family¡¯s daughter, she has privileges most can only dream of. She wouldn¡¯t waste her time on petty drama. There¡¯s got to be another reason she¡¯s here. If you¡¯d rather not deal with her, I can step in.¡±


    Brenna forced a dryugh. ¡°Maybe I¡¯m just overthinking it. Still, I¡¯m not about to avoid her. Let her in.¡±


    Before long, Lorna ushered Gracie through the doorway. Gracie swept into the room with the confidence of someone raised in the spotlight, offering a courteous smile, extending her hand to Brenna, and greeting her politely. Brenna noticed that Gracie¡¯s gaze was calm, devoid of anyplicated emotions, as if yesterday¡¯s events had never happened.


    ¡°Miss Wilson, what brings you over today?¡± Choosing to keep things professional, Brenna left yesterday¡¯s incident unmentioned.


    She observed that Gracie behaved perfectly normal in Ethan¡¯s absence, exuding the poise of someone from a wealthy family.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you remember? I invited you to my wee reception. Today, I¡¯vee to give you the invitation in person.¡± Gracie presented a striking orange envelope with both hands. The Wilson Group¡¯s name gleamed in gold across the front, and the envelope was stamped with thepany¡¯s logo.


    Gracie looked at Thiago. He was impably dressed, exuding a refined and gentle demeanor. At first nce, he seemed like a true gentleman. That first impression left Gracie inclined to like him, so she turned to Brenna with a polite smile. ¡°And who might this be?¡±


    With an easy gesture, Thiago offered his hand and exchanged a brief handshake with Gracie. From his jacket, he produced a business card, presenting it respectfully. ¡°Thiago Moreno. I serve as the Vice President at the Night Studio and am also one of thepany¡¯s founders.¡±


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    Twonguages adorned the business card, making Thiago¡¯s status immediately clear to Gracie. ¡°It¡¯s a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Moreno. I hope both you and Miss Harper can join me this Saturday at my wee banquet.¡± A genuine smile brightened Gracie¡¯s face as she pulled an invitation from her handbag, cing it in Thiago¡¯s hands politely.


    Without missing a beat, Thiago flipped open the invitation, skimmed the details, then shut it with a rxed nod. He then turned to Brenna. ¡°Are you going?¡± Gracie silently hoped Brenna would turn down the offer. She wanted Ethan to apany her. If Brenna showed up, it would undoubtedly affect Ethan. Worry tugged at Gracie as she waited for Brenna¡¯s reply. Although she didn¡¯t want Brenna and Ethan to appear as a couple at her banquet, she still extended an enthusiastic invitation. ¡°Miss Harper, you and Ethan could attend together.¡±


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 Chapter 964

    ?Chapter 964:


    Any shred of good impression Brenna had of Gracie disappeared in an instant. Gracie was now shamelessly chasing after the same man as her, and Brenna found the situation utterly baffling. Even stranger was Gracie¡¯s two-faced invitation for her and Ethan to show up together. What was Gracie trying to do?


    Brenna said, ¡°Actually, I¡¯ll be there. But I¡¯m attending with Thiago. Ethan and I have already broken up.¡±


    The answer sent a jolt of happiness through Gracie, and for a second, her delight almost slipped out. Brenna¡¯s frosty expression made herpose herself. ¡°Really? You¡¯ve broken up? When did that happen?¡±


    Instead of answering Gracie¡¯s question, Brenna threw one back at her. ¡°You like Ethan, don¡¯t you, Miss Wilson? If this news brightens your day, don¡¯t hold back. Go ahead and smile.¡±


    A sh of disapproval crossed Gracie¡¯s eyes. In her mind, Brenna¡¯s bluntness bordered on rudeness. Was this how she treated business contacts, too? How could anyone socking in tact survive in the business world?


    Rather than escting things, Gracie kept herposure. ¡°Miss Harper, with your talent and looks, you¡¯ll have a new boyfriend before you know it. I still have a few more invitations to hand out, so I¡¯ll excuse myself now.¡± With that, Gracie left, her steps lighter, her mood obviously lifted.


    Excitement bubbled up the moment she stepped inside the elevator. ¡°Unbelievable! They¡¯ve split for good. With Ethan¡¯s rtionship with me, he¡¯ll definitely support me wholeheartedly from now on. He¡¯ll probably agree to marry me, even if it¡¯s just a fake marriage,¡± she muttered.


    Momentster, the elevator doors opened on the ny-ninth floor. Gracie stepped out of the elevator, and ni led her to Ethan¡¯s office. Gracie, still in high spirits, began strategizing in her mind about how to tell Ethan about this matter while walking.


    Inside the office, Ethan faced three vice presidents from across the polished table. His features were stern, his tone serious. ¡°We need the annual financial report wrapped up soon. Everything must be in ce before our tenth anniversary event. This year¡¯s numbers are impressive, especially overseas, where both orders and profits have soared. Go ahead and let the press know about the uing celebration. There will be gifts for everyone and a raffle with plenty of prizes.¡±


    A gentle smile appeared on Gracie¡¯s lips as she waited for Ethan to finish. Then, she offered a polite greeting to him and the gathered executives. Expecting Ethan to break from business and focus on her, Gracie hoped he would send the others away and give her his undivided attention.


    Instead, he simply nced at her with his usual calm, distant look. ¡°What brings you here, Gracie?¡±


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    Disappointment pricked at Gracie. At that moment, she realized he regarded her just like any other guest, not someone deserving special attention.


    ¡°I came to deliver invitations,¡± she replied calmly. She understood Ethan¡¯s temperament well ¡ª he disliked drama and valued people who knew when to be sensible.


    Yesterday at the jewelry store, she had clearly sensed his displeasure toward her. Today, she was here to make amends and apologize. But since they weren¡¯t alone, she couldn¡¯t bring up personal topics for now. She reached into her bag, producing a neatly arranged stack of invitations. With respectful courtesy, she presented one to Ethan. ¡°The Wilson Group¡¯s Vand branch is holding a banquet to wee me officially. I¡¯d be deeply honored if you all could attend.¡±


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 Chapter 965

    ?Chapter 965:


    She handed one invitation to Ethan and then distributed the others to the three vice presidents. Although they were only vice presidents in thepany, they were prominent figures in Shirie, and Gracie understood the importance ofworking.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll attend,¡± Ethan replied. Though he didn¡¯t explicitly ask Gracie to leave, his tone implied it.


    Gracie wanted to say many things to Ethan, but she kept them to herself for the moment.


    ¡°I¡¯ll wait outside for you. There are still some important things I want to discuss with you. Ethan, you previously agreed to help me with things. Also, regarding yesterday, I want to say something to you.¡± Her words quickly made the three vice presidents sense they should probably step out.


    With a nod, Ethan responded, ¡°Give me thirty minutes. ni, please show Gracie to her office so she can rest until I¡¯m free.¡±


    Wide windows framed the Shirie skyline as Gracie lingered at the edge of her office, gazing down at the cityscape of Shirie, silently crying. A sharp knock sounded, and Ethan entered, his face unreadable.


    Startled, Gracie brushed away her tears, forcing a strained smile before pivoting to greet him.


    She quickly approached him, her eyes filled with sincerity as she looked into his. But what she saw in Ethan¡¯s eyes startled her; there was a distance there, a cold detachment. She knew he didn¡¯t like women who made trouble for no reason.


    Making things right suddenly felt urgent. With Brenna out of the picture, hope flickered that she could repair whatever cracks had formed between herself and Ethan. Determined not to repeat past mistakes, she silently promised to tread more carefully from now on.


    With sincerity, she said, ¡°Ethan, I owe you an apology for yesterday. My rudeness toward Miss Harper was inappropriate. It¡¯s my fault your rtionship ended.¡±


    Ethan noticed that Gracie¡¯s eyes were red and swollen. He was taken aback. In his memory, Gracie had always been an optimistic and confident woman. In all the years he had known her, the only time he had seen her cry was when he had rejected her confession of love.


    Gracie was the only daughter of the Wilson Group¡¯s CEO; she was a woman of striking beauty, intelligence, and talent. Her life had been a continuous parade of admirers, none ever capturing her genuine interest.


    She carried herself with the grace and confidence of someone untouchable. Nothing had ever seemed capable of breaking her spirit.


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    ¡°Has something happened?¡± Ethan inquired, sensing the shadow of sorrow lingering in her expression.


    Gracie shook her head, yet her tears betrayed her, spilling unchecked down her face despite her efforts to hold them back. Her voice wavered as she said, ¡°I¡¯m truly sorry, Ethan. I never thought my actions would drive you and Miss Harper apart. Forgive me, please.¡±


    Ethan sensed something amiss. Even if Gracie had intentionally driven a wedge between Brenna and him, she wouldn¡¯t cry like this.


    ¡°You¡¯re keeping something from me, aren¡¯t you?¡± Ethan asked. Although he felt a surge of disappointment, he knew Gracie well enough to understand she wasn¡¯t the type to lower herself for a man. Even when he had rejected her confession of love in the past, she had handled it with grace and dignity.


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 Chapter 966

    ?Chapter 966:


    Nodding miserably, Gracie let her grief overwhelm her, tears flowing freely. Without warning, she began removing her clothes¡ªshe tossed her suit jacket onto the chair and unbuttoned her shirt.


    Ethan turned sharply away, stunned. ¡°Stop it, Gracie! This won¡¯t help; put your clothes back on immediately. Even if you undress here, nothing between us will change.¡±


    ¡°Please, Ethan, just look at me!¡± Gracie¡¯s words tumbled out as she stepped closer, stripped down to nothing but her underwear.


    Firm resolve kept Ethan¡¯s eyelids shut. His tone was unwavering. ¡°Get dressed, Gracie. No matter what¡¯s happened, we¡¯re still friends. My breakup with Brenna was her decision, not mine. In my heart, she¡¯s still the only one I love. She¡¯s just angry at me¡ªthat¡¯s all. I¡¯ll see her at lunch and make things right. Please, don¡¯t do this.¡±


    ¡°No, Ethan, you don¡¯t understand! He did all this to me!¡± Gracie sobbed, her voice cracking with sorrow.


    When Ethan finally turned and cautiously opened his eyes, disbelief gripped him at the horrifying sight before him. Bruises covered Gracie¡¯s arms, chest, back, waist, and thighs¡ªsome fresh, others faded but still vivid. Among the injuries weresh marks, clear evidence of brutality.


    Speechless, Ethan whispered, ¡°Who could possibly have done this to you? You¡¯re the daughter of the Wilson Group¡¯s CEO, one of Norview¡¯s most powerful figures with political connections everywhere. Who¡¯d darey a finger on you?¡±


    Despite his struggle to grasp the shocking scene, the harsh reality left no room for doubt. Gracie¡¯s voice quivered as she muttered painfully, ¡°It¡¯s my husband, Ethan. I¡¯ve been secretly married for a year. He hits me constantly. My father¡¯s health is declining, and now my husband controls everything within the Wilson Group. I


    She begged him to let here here. ¡°Ethan, please help me. I¡¯m not here topete with Miss Harper for you. I just need your help. I want you to help me kill him!¡±


    Ethan paused, picking up her clothes and handing them to her. ¡°When did you get married? Who did you marry? You didn¡¯t even tell me. Why didn¡¯t you send me an invitation? Now put your clothes back on first.¡±


    One by one, Gracie slipped into her clothes, wiping away her tears and doing her best to cover each painful mark. When she met Ethan¡¯s gaze, she saw a deep sorrow clouding his eyes. Overwhelmed again, she stepped forward into his embrace, clinging to him as fresh tears streamed down her face. ¡°No one but you can challenge him, Ethan. He has the Wilson Group under his thumb¡ª even my father¡¯s closest allies in the Vand division follow his orders now. You¡¯re my only hope.¡±


    Ethan gently pushed her away, his expression darkening. ¡°Who exactly is he?¡±


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    Her voice quivered. ¡°He¡¯s Hector Kurt, Spencer¡¯s son. Spencer is the current leader of Norview¡¯s biggest gang. Hector is the one responsible for Jade¡¯s father¡¯s death. He wiped out all of my father¡¯s loyalists. Ethan, you have to help me kill him!¡±


    Ethan eased Gracie onto the sofa and sat beside her, watching her break down with raw sadness. He felt a deep ache for the lively, bold girl she once had been. Time had stolen her spark, leaving behind a quiet, easily wounded soul, and he mourned what she¡¯d lost.


    Comforting someone had never been his strong suit. He fumbled for a box of tissues and handed it to Gracie. ¡°Here,¡± he said gently. ¡°Dry your tears.¡±


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 Chapter 967

    ?Chapter 967:


    He took a steadying breath before asking, ¡°So, what¡¯s the truth? Did you and Hector actually get married? Last time we talked, you said he was just your fianc¨¦. Now you¡¯re calling him your husband.¡± He struggled to discern fact from confusion in her story.


    Normally, lies grated on him, but tonight his heart had softened. Gracie¡¯s shattered confidence made it impossible for him to be angry. Instead, he felt deep sympathy¡ªher fear had left her unable to trust anyone. Everything she had done before was simply her way of testing him, and he didn¡¯t me her at all.


    Despite her efforts to steady herself, her sobs slipped through, stirring anyone¡¯spassion. Gracie sniffed and fought back another wave of tears. ¡°I really did marry him, Ethan. Almost a year ago. Before the wedding, he chased me with flowers every day¡ªalways so gentle. I was going through so much. My dad was in the hospital, and Hector seemed like the only person who cared about me. I never thought he would turn out this way. I honestly believed he loved me, but it was all a lie. From the start, he had his sights on the Wilson Group. The only reason he married me was to seize control.¡±


    Her voice trembled as she continued, ¡°When I returned, my father was already seriously ill. I don¡¯t know how much longer he has. Ethan, I need your help. What am I supposed to do?¡±


    Ethan¡¯s face grew grim as he tightened his grip on his phone. He thumbed through his contacts, searching for the name he needed. ¡°You can count on me. I won¡¯t let you face this alone.¡±


    Without hesitation, he made the call. ¡°Brewster, I need you to dig up some information on the Wilson Group for me.¡±


    On the other end of the line, Brewster Coleman¡ªEthan¡¯s good friend and the manager of his Norview operations¡ªanswered.


    Brewster had cultivated a reputation as a savvy operator, hiswork spreading widely across Norview¡¯s influential circles.


    ¡°You¡¯re asking about the Wilson Group?¡± Brewster¡¯s voice carried a hint of curiosity. ¡°I¡¯ve heard some things¡ªwhat exactly do you want to know?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m here with Gracie. She says Hector is after control of thepany and has been harming her physically.¡±


    That revtion gave Brewster pause. ¡°Harm her physically? You know as well as I do, the underworld is full of snakes. Gracie and her father were too naive. Still, Warren¡¯s own ambitions yed a part. Word on the street is, Warren tried making aggressive moves on Spencer¡¯s territory and ended up getting beaten at his own game. So, Hector isn¡¯t the only guilty party¡ªWarren yed with fire and got burned.¡±


    Brewster paused thoughtfully before continuing. ¡°Look, I¡¯m not defending Hector, justying it out as I see it. Forgive me if I sounded blunt¡­¡±


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    For nearly thirty minutes, Brewster unraveled the messy history between the Wilson Group and Spencer. rm settled over Ethan with each new revtion, the knot in his stomach tightening as the truth unfolded. Nothing about this ordeal was simple.


    Suspicion nagged at Ethan. He believed Gracie had kept parts of the story to herself. He studied her face, noting the tear-stained cheeks and the weariness in her eyes. He felt for her and couldn¡¯t me her for hiding something from him.


    He wandered toward the massive window, letting the city lights blur beneath his gaze while Brewster¡¯s voice continued in his ear. By the time their conversation wrapped up, a full hour had passed.


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 Chapter 968

    ?Chapter 968:


    Gracie, holding a ss of lemon water in her hands, had managed to pull herself together. Her polished demeanor had returned.


    ¡°Now I understand the whole picture,¡± Ethan said. ¡°Brewster¡¯s already making moves to sort this out. We¡¯ll work on getting back what¡¯s rightfully yours and make sure your father¡¯s protected, too.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Ethan. I owe you so much. I really do,¡± Gracie said, emotion filling her eyes as she stood and wrapped her arms around him in a grateful embrace. The closeness made him ufortable, so he gently broke free, seriousness marking his tone. ¡°Gracie, I¡¯m in a rtionship. It¡¯s best we avoid hugs like this, or people might get the wrong idea.¡±


    Gracie¡¯s arms dropped, and a hint of embarrassment flickered across her face. She tried tough it off. ¡°Oh, sorry. I actually ran into Miss Harper earlier when I delivered an invitation. She mentioned you two had broken up. I didn¡¯t know you still wanted to fix things with her.¡±


    Despite the apology, she studied his face intently, searching for any sign of feelings for her. But Ethan¡¯s expression remained steady, cool, and polite. The realization left her feeling bitter, but she kept her thoughts to herself.


    ¡°If your rtionship with Miss Harper ended because of me, you should tell me. I¡¯ll exin everything to her if it helps.¡± Gracie tried to appearposed, but her expression betrayed her bitterness and unwillingness to ept the situation.


    ¡°That won¡¯t be necessary,¡± Ethan replied, his voice resolute. ¡°I¡¯ll take care of it myself. Your focus needs to be on the uing banquet. Strengthen your connections here in Vand before Hector can interfere. Make sure you¡¯re in charge of both finances and operations here.¡±


    Determination red in Gracie¡¯s expression as she replied, ¡°You¡¯re right. I have no doubt that once Hector is done in Norview, he¡¯ll make his way here. I¡¯ll be ready for him this time. He won¡¯t take another thing from me.¡±


    Apanying Gracie to the elevator, Ethan waited as she stepped inside. Just before the doors slid shut, her voice carried back to him, hopeful and sincere. ¡°Promise me you¡¯ll be at the banquet Saturday night, Ethan?¡±


    After work, Thiago headed upstairs to find Brenna so they could leave together. Tommy and Joe had stayed behind, working overtime as the staff hustled to meet the surge in orders. But Thiago and Brenna, unaffected by the chaos, walked out without a second thought.


    Inside the elevator, Thiago smiled faintly and said, ¡°I heard some interesting gossip.¡±


    Brenna turned to look at him. Seeing his smug expression, she figured that whatever he had heard had something to do with her.


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    ¡°I knew you had something to say when you came looking for me today. Go on,¡± she said.


    Thiago¡¯s smile widened. ¡°You made the right call breaking up with Ethan. Gracie came by earlier to hand out invitations. She gave one to him, too. And guess what happened after that? Hot stuff. Real spicy.¡±


    Brenna remained impassive and stared at his amused face, clearly unimpressed. ¡°Are you trying to mock me for having terrible taste in men?¡±


    Thiago¡¯s grin faded. He straightened up, and his tone turned serious. ¡°I would never mock you. I mean it. You saw something in Ethan that didn¡¯t sit right with you, and you walked away from him before things got worse.¡±


    He paused for a moment, then added in a softer voice, ¡°Gracie and Ethan were alone in his office today. The door was open, but they were standing really close. She cried for a while.¡±


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 Chapter 969

    ?Chapter 969:


    Then, he leaned in a little. ¡°She then started undressing. Right there in his office. The door stayed wide open the whole time. She stripped down to her underwear, Brenna. Her body¡­ It was covered in bruises and scars. Old ones. New ones. You didn¡¯t need to be a doctor to tell she¡¯d been through hell. But what really hit me wasn¡¯t even that. It was Ethan. He looked like he really felt for her. The two of them just stood there, holding each other for a long time.¡±


    Brenna had long made her decision about Ethan. She believed she had never loved him. She just liked him and found him appealing. Yet, hearing this made her heart heavy with anger, her demeanor turning cold.


    ¡°How do you know? Maybe someone made this up.¡±


    ¡°I knew you¡¯d say that,¡± said Thiago, calm and certain. ¡°But my source is reliable. One of Ethan¡¯s secretaries has a mother with kidney failure. She is on dialysis twice a week and takes imported meds that cost a small fortune. They¡¯re waiting on a¡­¡±


    ¡°Transnt they can¡¯t afford. His paycheck barely scratches the surface. I pay him a hundred grand a month to keep an eye on Ethan.¡± Thiago pulled out his phone and showed her a photo. It captured Gracie clinging to Ethan, stripped down to nothing but her underwear. Bruises marked her skin like faded ink. Ethan stood there, arms slightly outstretched, making no move to hold her back. His hands never touched her.


    Despite that, Brenna felt inexplicably angry and betrayed. Her jaw tightened as she ground out, ¡°That¡¯s disgusting. Don¡¯t ever show me anything like that again.¡±


    Somehow, even though she¡¯d only nced at it, the image burned into her mind. Brenna could not shake it off, no matter how hard she tried.


    When the elevator doors slid open, Brenna stepped out briskly, her heels clicking against the floor. She needed a few minutes to be alone.


    ¡°Brenna!¡± Before she could react, she bumped squarely into someone¡¯s chest. She hadn¡¯t noticed anyone standing there. Irritated, she looked up, ready tosh out¡ªonly to see Ethan.


    ¡°Move aside!¡± Brenna shoved past him and headed for the exit.


    Ethan reached out and caught her hand. ¡°Brenna, I have something to say to you.¡±


    Her patience snapped. ¡°I don¡¯t want to talk to you.¡± Alec, on lobby duty, froze as he watched them argue, eyes wide.


    Ethan held her hand firmly, blocking her path. Thiago, watching from the side, gauged the tension and decided not to interfere. He figured Brenna could handle Ethan on her own. With a shrug, he said casually, ¡°I¡¯ll head out first.¡±


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    It was the end of the workday, and employees began trickling into the lobby. They paused when they saw the scene: Brenna standing stiffly, her expression livid, while Ethan humbly begged for forgiveness. The staff quickly averted their eyes and slipped past the pair, pretending not to see anything.


    ¡°Brenna, Gracie¡¯s in a terrible situation,¡± Ethan said urgently. ¡°Please¡ªlet me exin everything to you.¡±


    ¡°How is that my concern?¡± Brenna replied coldly. She had seen Gracie¡¯s scars in the photo. Yes, they were horrible. But if Gracie had been hurt, she should have gone to¡­


    She¡¯d gone to a hospital, not thrown herself at someone else¡¯s boyfriend. Brenna said, ¡°If you want to help her, then help her. You don¡¯t need my permission.¡± Ethan faltered, struggling to find the right words. Gracie¡¯s situation wasn¡¯t just pitiful; it was tragic. ¡°She¡¯s a victim of domestic abuse. She has no one left. She came to me because she was desperate,¡± Ethan exined. But he could see Brenna was still furious and clearly skeptical. ¡°Brenna, please. Could we help her together?¡± Ethan implored, hoping that if Brenna truly understood how helpless Gracie was, she would stop being angry and forgive what had happened.


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 Chapter 970

    ?Chapter 970:


    A coldugh escaped Brenna. ¡°If saving her is what you want, then do it. Just don¡¯t expect me to be involved. The whole idea makes me sick!¡± She roughly shook off Ethan and stormed away, her anger evident.


    She could hardly believe it! What did they take her for? A woman showed up to steal her boyfriend, and not only was she expected to stay calm, but she was also supposed to help that woman? Not a chance!


    Stunned, Ethan could only watch as Brenna slid into her car, mmed the door shut, and drove off.


    Before he could collect his thoughts, Alec walked over to him, his demeanor respectful.


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell,¡± Alec said, choosing his words carefully. ¡°Can you really not see it? Brenna¡¯s already upset because of the way you treat that woman. Now, you expect her to help? What are you thinking?¡±


    Resisting the urge to say more harsh words, Alec held his tongue. He knew it wasn¡¯t his ce to say those things to Ethan.


    A thoughtful crease formed between Ethan¡¯s brows. Instead of arguing, he thought about Alec¡¯s words in silence.


    ¡°So that¡¯s what this is all about?¡± Ethan asked, struggling to make sense of it. ¡°Has she always reacted like this?¡±


    Alec¡¯s face showed confusion. ¡°What do you mean? She¡¯s hardly experienced with these things. Even with Jordy, they met through her mother¡¯s arranged blind date under pressure. She¡¯s inexperienced in rtionships, but that doesn¡¯t mean she¡¯s stupid. You might want to rethink your approach. I¡¯ll speak to her tomorrow and see if I can help smooth things over for you. But you need to stop saying things that make it worse.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± For the first time, Ethan found Alec somewhat helpful. ¡°Maybe you can tell me how to make things right.¡±


    ¡°If you want my advice, you¡¯ll stop spending time with that woman. Isn¡¯t my daughter enough? What makes that woman so special? Or do you want to keep both of them by your side?¡± Alec¡¯s voice turned firm, the wordsing from a protective father. Though it was not entirely appropriate for him to talk to Ethan this way, he felt it necessary.


    After pausing to think, Ethan replied, ¡°I am not trying to do that. That woman is just someone from my past who needs help. I can¡¯t really turn her away.¡± Alec shook his head in disbelief. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect you to be someone so sentimental.¡±


    Realizing the misunderstanding, Ethan exined, ¡°There¡¯s nothing between that woman and me. She¡¯s facing serious problems, and that¡¯s the only reason I want to help her.¡±


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    A sharp scoff escaped Alec. ¡°If you care more about helping her than making things right with Brenna, then go ahead. Is it Gracie you¡¯re helping? Word is she used to be your girlfriend. You¡¯re trying to get back together with her.¡±


    Feeling that he¡¯d said enough, Alec turned on his heel, confident he¡¯d made his point. In his mind, Ethan needed to learn a lesson about priorities.


    Left on his own, Ethan contemted Alec¡¯s words. There was a ring of truth to them.


    What unsettled him most was how quickly people were talking about Gracie and him. Even a security guard like Alec knew about it.


    Sliding into his car, Ethan found Neville in the driver¡¯s seat. Neville said, ¡°Mr. Mitchell, your dinner with Mr. Dury is set for seven-thirty. We should get going.¡± Ethan gave a brief nod. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


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 Chapter 971

    ?Chapter 971:


    During the drive, he tried reaching Brenna on her phone, but she refused to pick up.


    With nothing else left to do, he sent her a long, thoughtful message. He went into detail about the Wilson Group¡¯s problems and described the mess Gracie and her father were in.


    Again and again, he made it clear to Brenna that there was nothing romantic between him and Gracie.


    He believed that Brenna would listen to reason. She would understand him.


    After hitting send, he waited for her reply.


    Nearly thirty minutester, a reply finally popped up¡ªa single photo.


    The picture made Ethan¡¯s blood run cold.


    The photo showed Gracie in her underwear, hugging him in his office.


    ¡°Oh no. There¡¯s no way I can rify things to her now,¡± he muttered, staring at the photo, not bothering to figure out who had taken it. His mind was focused on how to exin this to Brenna.


    His thoughts were in chaos; he couldn¡¯te up with a solution.


    He nced at Neville. ¡°Tell me, Neville, when you¡¯re in hot water with your girlfriend, how do you fix things? Suppose your girl sees a photo of another woman hugging you, like this one. What will you do? If you help me, I¡¯ll double your bonus this month.¡± Ethan showed Neville the photo.


    Neville, focused on driving, only nced at it briefly.


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell, this is a difficult situation.¡±


    Ethan frowned. ¡°If you cannote up with a solution, I¡¯ll cancel your entire bonus this month.¡±


    Neville winced at the thought of losing his bonus.


    ¡°Let me think about it.¡± Neville felt pressured. His job had always been running errands for Ethan, but now, he had to help him win back his girlfriend.


    Ethan nodded. ¡°After I have dinner with Mr. Dury, you can tell me your solution.¡±


    Brenna returned home and went back to her room. She carefully reread Ethan¡¯s message.


    Logic told her the Wilson Group might truly be in trouble, and Gracie¡¯s problems might be real, but that did not soothe her anger. Helping Gracie was one thing, but she believed Ethan did not need to get involved in trivial matters like helping Gracie choose holiday gifts for her employees.


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    And he shouldn¡¯t have let Gracie hug him when she was only in her underwear.


    That crossed a line.


    She couldn¡¯t forgive him.


    Just then, soft knocking broke her thoughts. Giselle opened the door and entered.


    ¡°Mom.¡± Brenna hid her phone in a hurry, her tone t as she acknowledged her mother¡¯s presence.


    ¡°The housekeeper mentioned you seemed down, so I wanted to check on you. Is everything alright?¡± Giselle said.


    Warmth settled in Brenna¡¯s chest, a gentle feeling she had rarely experienced in her old home with the Barrett family. During her years with them, nobody had ever bothered to ask if she was happy, if she¡¯d had enough to eat, or if she wasfortable.


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 Chapter 972

    ?Chapter 972:


    Now, even though she was just a little upset, Giselle was very concerned about her. This made her genuinely happy. Deciding not to hide anything, she decided to tell her mother everything that had happened today.


    A quick pat on the seat beside her invited Giselle to sit down, and Brenna held out her phone to show her the photo Thiago had sent her.


    ¡°Take a look at this. Gracie took off her clothes and hugged Ethan, just to y on his sympathy and get him to feel sorry for her. This makes me very ufortable. Honestly, I just want to break up with him.¡± Brenna lowered her gaze.


    Giselle studied the photo carefully, her brows furrowing. Although she had never been particrly supportive of Brenna dating Ethan, she hadn¡¯t strongly opposed it either, seeing how much her daughter liked him.


    Years of life inside a wealthy household had taught Giselle the truth about those glossy, respectable facades. Shepard looked like a perfect husband and father in public, but she knew his secrets outside the family all too well. For her own reasons, she¡¯d chosen to keep quiet, epting that these scandals were just the cost of belonging to a family like theirs.


    Over the years, she had endured countless grievances quietly, never sharing her pain with anyone.


    Seeing Brenna endure heartbreak was more than she could bear. She had noticed this pattern before; wealthy men often repeated the same mistakes. Ethan might have been loyal at the moment, but that didn¡¯t promise whaty ahead.


    No matter how well Ethan behaved, she remained clear-headed.


    When Giselle noticed how down Brenna looked, she could not bring herself to add to her pain. She held back from telling Brenna that she had already expected things to end this way.


    She had no intention of turning this moment into a chance to show off her own wisdom or foresight. What truly mattered to her was finding a way tofort her daughter, even just a little.


    Softly, Giselle said, ¡°Look carefully. That woman, even dressed like that, seems to have injuries all over her body. And see¡ªEthan isn¡¯t hugging her back. That means he doesn¡¯t want to hug her. Maybe the truth is moreplicated than it seems. If you can, you might want to let him exin this to you.¡±


    Brenna had no experience in rtionships. She just didn¡¯t want to be mistreated.


    ¡°If he didn¡¯t want that, he could have pushed her away.¡± Images from earlier reyed in Brenna¡¯s mind¡ªEthan pleading for her trust after work. She felt conflicted. While she was angry at Ethan, she instinctively believed that Gracie had been the one to seduce him and that Ethan had been passive in the situation.


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    Even though she was giving Ethan the cold shoulder, her feelings were a mess. She believed he hadn¡¯t done anything to betray her, but she also didn¡¯t want to forgive him. Why hadn¡¯t Ethan avoided Gracie¡¯s hug?


    Thinking of that, she couldn¡¯t bring herself to forgive Ethan.


    Giselle let out a quiet, amusedugh. ¡°I understand that you¡¯re angry with him because of this. If he¡¯s made you this upset, maybe it¡¯s time you gave him a taste of his own medicine.¡±


    A spark of mischief appeared in Brenna¡¯s eyes, and her gloom faded away. ¡°You are right! He¡¯s acted like my feelings don¡¯t matter at all, letting that woman get so close to him. There¡¯s no reason I should just forgive him. Mom, how do you suggest I give him a taste of his own medicine?¡±


    ¡°Leave it to me. Tomorrow, don¡¯t bother eating in the cafeteria at work. I¡¯ve arranged a lunch meeting for you with someone new.¡± Deep down, Giselle really wanted Brenna to be reminded that Ethan wasn¡¯t the only man worth her attention.


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 Chapter 973

    ?Chapter 973:


    Realization dawned on Brenna, and she stared at her mother. ¡°Wait¡ªyou¡¯re setting me up on a date, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    A calm nod from Giselle confirmed it. ¡°That¡¯s exactly what I¡¯m doing. There¡¯s a whole world full of decent men. Just give it a try, all right?¡±


    A sigh escaped Brenna, resignation softening her voice. Her mother would never give up on the idea, and it was clear she never liked Ethan. ¡°Alright.¡±


    Later, while everyone gathered for dinner, Ernst ced an invitation on the dining table.


    ¡°Looks like the Wilson Group¡¯s got a new CEO for the Vand region,¡± he said. ¡°There¡¯s a banquet Saturday night to wee the new CEO. Mom, Dad, are you two nning to go?¡±


    Shepard answered almost instantly, ¡°We have no ns to attend. You can go and represent our family if you want.¡±


    Surprisingly, Giselle spoke up. ¡°We should go. This new CEO thinks she can steal Brenna¡¯s boyfriend. I want to see her in person.¡± Shepard was shocked. ¡°Really?¡±


    Ernst, who had just returned home, had gone drinking with Ethan the night before and already knew about Gracie. He kept his head down, focusing on his food, and said nothing.


    Brenna had no choice but to exin the situation to Shepard. ¡°You¡¯ve probably seen the videos online. There¡¯s definitely something going on between Gracie and Ethan. I¡¯ve already made up my mind to break up with Ethan.¡±


    Hearing that Brenna was serious, Ernst finally met her gaze. ¡°Don¡¯t rush to break up with him, Brenna. Ethan isn¡¯t like that. He has only ever seen Gracie as a friend, nothing more. He called me earlier¡ªbasically begged me to talk to you on his behalf. But I didn¡¯t want to interfere. After all, he is the one who let Gracie hug him. Honestly, I¡¯m angry at him, too, but I don¡¯t think there¡¯s anything between him and Gracie.¡±


    Giselle scolded her son. ¡°Enough with the excuses. I don¡¯t believe that.¡±


    Shepard¡¯s anger simmered. ¡°In that case, we¡¯ll go to the banquet. How dare that woman try to steal my daughter¡¯s boyfriend?¡±


    By noon the next day, Brenna had already packed up her things and slipped out of the office just after half past eleven.


    As she waited for the elevator, she dug through her purse, found herpact, and dabbed on some powder before carefully refreshing her lipstick.


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    A nce in the tiny mirror brought a satisfied grin to her face. Then, she entered the elevator.


    The block was lined with stylish restaurants, each boasting sleek decor and a serene vibe. Since manypanies in the area didn¡¯t have their own cafeterias, the neighborhood was packed with dining options, and the restaurants were always bustling. The one Brenna was headed to had an excellent reputation, with a loyal customer base. Arrivingte would mean no avable seats.


    At the restaurant, Brenna spotted Lorna waving from a window table she¡¯d managed to snag. ¡°Over here!¡±


    Lorna didn¡¯t know why Brenna had asked her to hold a table, but she had obedientlyplied. She had been sitting for nearly an hour already, picking at the two entrees and a bowl of soup she¡¯d ordered just to hold the table.


    ¡°You¡¯re finally here! I ate at a snail¡¯s pace because I was worried they¡¯d kick me out as soon as my te was empty.¡±


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 Chapter 974

    ?Chapter 974:


    Sliding into the seat across from her, Brenna offered a grateful smile. ¡°Thanks for saving this spot. Don¡¯t worry about the bill; I¡¯ll take care of it. You can head back now.¡±


    With a nod, Lorna got up. ¡°Thanks, Brenna. I¡¯ll get going.¡± She didn¡¯t ask why Brenna hade here, but she did notice that Brenna¡¯s makeup was different today, bolder and more striking than usual.


    gging down a waiter, Brenna was greeted by a young man who couldn¡¯t have been much older than twenty-five. His apron bore the restaurant¡¯s logo, and his manners were impable as he noticed Brenna¡¯s beauty.


    He handed over the menu with a polite nod.


    Brenna soon ced her order.


    She ordered enough for two, knowing her lunchpanion, arranged by her mother, would arrive by the time the dishes arrived.


    Waiting for her food, Brenna distracted herself by scrolling through her phone. At nearly noon, Ethan stepped out of the elevator and knocked on Brenna¡¯s office door.


    Greta and Lorna walked over together. Lorna rolled her eyes at Greta. ¡°You¡¯re stealing my job again. Your work is design and client follow-ups. Weing guests is my responsibility.¡±


    Greta shot back without hesitation, ¡°Mind your own business.¡± The two of them reached Ethan almost simultaneously.


    Greta was quick to inform him, ¡°Mr. Mitchell, Brenna¡¯s not here right now. She has stepped out.¡±


    Lorna pursed her lips and gave a faint smile. Brenna hadn¡¯t told anyone but her where she had gone, so Lorna was curious to see if Greta could tell Ethan where she was.


    Lorna stayed quiet.


    Ethan opened the office door himself, finding the office empty.


    ¡°Where did Brenna go?¡± he asked.


    Greta shook her head. ¡°I wish I could tell you, Mr. Mitchell. But honestly, I have no idea. If you want, I can try calling her now.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s response was frosty. ¡°Don¡¯t bother. I¡¯ll call her myself.¡±


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    Grabbing his phone, he dialed Brenna¡¯s number. The line rang and rang, but she ignored the call, letting it end automatically.


    Only then did Lorna turn to Greta. ¡°So, you have no clue where Brenna has gone, right?¡±


    Annoyance crept into Greta¡¯s tone. ¡°Wait, do you know? Why didn¡¯t you just tell Mr. Mitchell straight away? His time is valuable, you know.¡±


    Lorna nced at the clock on the wall¡ª11:55. Brenna had specifically said not to reveal her location to Ethan until 12:30.


    She arched an eyebrow. ¡°She just mentioned she was going out for lunch nearby. She never said which restaurant she was going to.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s expression remained cold. ¡°You didn¡¯t ask her which restaurant she was going to?¡±


    The weight of Ethan¡¯s stare nearly made Lorna cave, but Brenna¡¯s instructions held firm in her mind. ¡°I honestly don¡¯t know. But her makeup looked extra bold today, so she is probably having lunch with someone important.¡±


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 Chapter 975

    ?Chapter 975:


    The phrase ¡°extra bold¡± stuck with Ethan, reying in his head. Brenna turned heads everywhere, even on an ordinary day. Since she¡¯d gone to such effort today with her makeup, was she meeting a man?


    Without another word, Ethan turned and stepped into the elevator, his mood sour.


    Left behind, Lorna let out a sigh and settled back at her desk, while Greta left to grab lunch with the others.


    As soon as the office emptied, Lorna typed out a quick message to Brenna.


    ¡°Brenna, Mr. Mitchell is probably on his way to find you. I told him, as you instructed, that you went for lunch nearby, but I didn¡¯t mention which restaurant.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s reply came right away. ¡°Got it.¡±


    Brenna nced at her phone as the screen lit up. This was the fifth time Ethan had called her, and she simply let it ring until it disconnected automatically.


    ¡°Excuse me, are you Miss Harper?¡± A shadow fell across her table as a tall man approached, his demeanor polite.


    Looking up, Brenna took in his refined style¡ªck wool coat, id scarf, and theposed manner her mother had promised.


    She rose from her seat, offering a friendly greeting. ¡°That¡¯s right, I¡¯m Brenna Harper. You must be Darwin, right?¡±


    Brenna had a good impression of Darwin Atkinson. A recent graduate with a master¡¯s degree from Northride University in Orwall, he had returned to the country not long ago and was now working at a financial firm, earning an annual sry of around three million. Both of his parents had decent jobs. While his background didn¡¯t quite measure up to the Harper family¡¯s status, Darwin¡¯s appearance, calm confidence, and charming demeanor checked all of Brenna¡¯s boxes.


    A rare smile curved across her lips as she gestured to the seat across from her. ¡°Please, take a seat. It¡¯s a pleasure to meet you. I¡¯ve already ordered some dishes. I hope they suit your taste. If not, feel free to let me know, and we can order something else.¡±


    Darwin smiled back and eased into the chair. He unwound his scarf and set it aside with practiced grace. Catching a warm look in his eyes, Brenna felt herself rx. Even if Ethan were still in the picture, she would have found Darwin appealing.


    ¡°My apologies if I kept you waiting, Miss Harper. A gentleman should be the first to arrive. The meal¡¯s on me,¡± he said.


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    He was polite and gentlemanly, and Brenna¡¯s impression of him improved even further.


    ¡°I heard your father works in the police department?¡± Brenna asked, not particrly skilled at small talk with men and simply picking a topic at random.


    ¡°That¡¯s right,¡± Darwin replied. ¡°He¡¯s at the Shirie Police Department; he¡¯s good at what he does. If you ever need a favor from him, don¡¯t hesitate to ask me for help. Big or small, I¡¯ll help however I can.¡± He ced his phone facedown, leaning in to talk to her with attentive focus.


    The gesture wasn¡¯t lost on Brenna. She felt respected.


    ¡°My mom¡¯s with the city government. You might¡¯ve seen her on the news before,¡± he added, showing Brenna a family photo on his phone.


    Recognition flickered as Brenna spotted the familiar face¡ªShirie¡¯s deputy mayor, who also served as the honorary president at the university. No wonder Giselle had mentioned that this man was the son of one of her colleagues. Darwin pointed to¡­


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 Chapter 976

    ?Chapter 976:


    His sister was in the photo. ¡°This is my younger sister. She just started out in the civil service.¡±


    He then reached for his wallet and handed Brenna a business card. ¡°Why don¡¯t we swap contacts?¡±


    epting the card, Brenna called the number on it. Darwin received the call and saved her number.


    Soon, the dishes Brenna had ordered were served.


    Conversation flowed easily as they enjoyed the dishes. Every few minutes, Brenna¡¯s phone would light up with a call from Ethan; she rejected every one of them.


    Darwin had a knack for keeping the conversation flowing effortlessly, and soon, Brenna found herselfughing and feeling rxed. She was surprised at how much she enjoyed herself.


    ¡°Who is he?¡± Just then, a chilly voice broke through their conversation. Brenna¡¯s head snapped up, and she found Ethan standing by their table, eyes narrowed in anger and phone clenched in his hand.


    Surprise flickered across Brenna¡¯s face. She had picked the window seat on purpose, thinking Ethan might spot her if he passed outside.


    But she had been so engrossed in her conversation with Darwin that she hadn¡¯t noticed Ethan walking by.


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell!¡± Darwin stood up and extended a hand toward Ethan, smiling warmly. ¡°What a surprise to see you here.¡±


    Surprise flickered in Darwin¡¯s eyes. Judging by Ethan¡¯s expression, he seemed upset, and he apparently knew Brenna. Could it be that Ethan and Brenna were friends?


    Recognition clicked into ce for Ethan. ¡°Darwin?¡±


    He remembered thest time he had gone to ask the deputy mayor for help. When he had dinner with her, Darwin hade. She had introduced Darwin to him at the time.


    The two men shook hands. Ethan¡¯s grip was stiff, his demeanor distant. It hadn¡¯t yet dawned on him that Brenna was meeting Darwin for a date. He said, ¡°Hope I¡¯m not intruding. Mind if I join you? I haven¡¯t eaten yet.¡±


    Brenna nced at the half-cleared tes before meeting Ethan¡¯s eyes. ¡°We¡¯re already in the middle of lunch.¡±


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    ¡°Isn¡¯t it a bit inappropriate for you to join us?¡± Without waiting for permission, Ethan signaled for a waiter. ¡°Bring me a te of spaghetti. Make it fast,¡± he said.


    Sliding into the seat beside Brenna, Ethan positioned himself so close to her that it was impossible to miss the possessiveness in his posture.


    Darwin¡¯s smile faded, and his expression turned serious. He said to Ethan, ¡°Mr. Mitchell, I think it¡¯s rather impolite of you to sit so close to ady.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s my girlfriend,¡± Ethan replied bluntly.


    ¡°You and I aren¡¯t together anymore, Ethan. Stop causing trouble for me,¡± Brenna said, her good moodpletely ruined.


    ¡°So, you are on a date with him?¡± Ethan¡¯s tone sharpened. He believed he hadn¡¯t arrived toote; surely they hadn¡¯t exchanged contact information yet.


    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s exactly what it is. And you know what? I think I like him. I¡¯ve already broken up with you, so stop bothering me,¡± Brenna shot back, her frustration boiling over.


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 Chapter 977

    ?Chapter 977:


    ¡°I¡¯ve never agreed to the breakup. Darwin, you can leave now.¡± Ethan rudely attempted to drive Darwin away.


    Brenna¡¯s anger red. ¡°What right do you have to ask him to leave?¡±


    Anger shed in Brenna¡¯s eyes as she stared Ethan down, every inch of her brimming with stubbornness. She moved away, putting some distance between them, her guarded expression making Ethan feel a pang of difort. Ethan felt as though his heart was being torn apart, still refusing to believe Brenna truly wanted to break up with him this time. A look of sorrow shed in his eyes.


    ¡°Brenna, are you doing this because of what happened between Gracie and me? Are you trying to get back at me by dating some random man?¡±


    His gaze turned sharp as he looked at Darwin, his eyes filled with hostility.


    Darwin held his ground, undisturbed by the re. He did not feel inferior to Ethan at all. On the contrary, he believed he was more suitable for Brenna than Ethan.


    He said, ¡°Mr. Mitchell, everyone knows your name. The world watches you, but that doesn¡¯t mean the rest of us are invisible. Be careful with what you say. Miss Harper has already told you to leave. I rmend you listen to her.¡± His tone was firm and direct.


    Ethan gave him a cold, dismissive look, as if his words meant nothing to him.


    ¡°Take a good look at him, Brenna. He doesn¡¯t deserve to be with you. Whether it is his status, abilities, or character, he falls short.¡± Ethan jabbed a finger in Darwin¡¯s direction. ¡°Look at him. He¡¯s fat. Do you honestly think he measures up to me?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell, please stop with the personal attacks. If you continue, I won¡¯t let this slide,¡± Darwin said angrily.


    Anyone paying attention would see that Darwin was anything but unfit. He might have a bigger frame than Ethan, but he kept himself in shape and lived a healthy life. How could Ethan just call him fat?


    Brenna¡¯s temper snapped. ¡°Enough! Trying to put him down won¡¯t change how I feel. You want the truth? I have already decided to date him, and you have no right to object. Now, if you have nothing else to say, leave.¡±


    She stood up abruptly, pushing Ethan away with all her pent-up frustration. ¡°How can you justify being around Gracie, letting her get close to you, yet the second I try to move on, you storm in and interfere? What right do you have to control my choices? You im nothing is going on between you and Gracie, just friendship. How do you prove that? You grow closer to her every day, always making excuses for her behavior. I¡¯ve had enough. I¡¯m ending things with you. I¡¯m not yours, so why can¡¯t I date other people?¡±


    Her words tumbled out in a furious rush, leaving Ethan speechless. Before he could find a single word in his defense, Brenna pushed him right out of the restaurant.


    1@?€?? ¡é??t?¨º§ñ$ ¨ª§Ú gal??ovels.??om


    Still fuming, Brenna slipped back into her seat. ¡°I apologize for what he said earlier. He¡¯s just being irrational. Please don¡¯t take his words to heart.¡±


    A warm smile spread across Darwin¡¯s face. ¡°No worries at all, Miss Harper. If anything, I admire your actions just now. It¡¯s your ex-boyfriend who acted out of line. I wouldn¡¯t me you for his behavior. It¡¯s obvious he hasn¡¯t let go of you, yet he¡¯s tangled up with someone else. That says a lot about him, doesn¡¯t it?¡±


    Though Darwin sensed Brenna might still have feelings for Ethan, he liked her. She was exceptional in every way, meeting all his criteria for an ideal partner. With enough effort, he believed he could make Brenna fall for him eventually.


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 Chapter 978

    ?Chapter 978:


    Outside the restaurant, Ethan stood stunned, his mood plummeting. Through the ss door, he noticed diners ncing at him, and he felt utterly humiliated. Why should he be the one to leave?


    Rather than walk away, he made up his mind to go back inside. He wanted to see for himself if Brenna truly liked that man. He pushed the door open and walked back in, finding a table diagonally across from Brenna¡¯s. Conveniently, it had just been vacated.


    ¡°Waiter!¡± he said, waving impatiently. He ordered several dishes at once. Brenna red daggers at Ethan, but with him quietly eating instead of causing trouble, she had no reason to drive him away. Even so, frustration simmered just beneath her calm exterior.


    Thankfully, she had nearly finished her meal. With a final bite, she set her fork down and turned to Darwin. ¡°I¡¯m done eating.¡±


    Darwin put his fork down and raised his wine ss. ¡°Cheers.¡±


    A quick nce at Ethan revealed a face flushed with envy, and the sight brightened Brenna¡¯s mood. She clinked her ss with Darwin¡¯s.


    After finishing their drinks, they stood up and left the table.


    At the cashier, Darwin said with a smile, ¡°Today¡¯s lunch was a pleasure. Allow me to get the bill.¡±


    Brenna did not protest, allowing Darwin to pay.


    When Darwin was paying the bill, Brenna sneaked a nce back at Ethan. Their eyes met unexpectedly, and they both quickly looked away. She felt embarrassed at being caught staring at him at the exact moment he looked her way.


    ¡°Miss Harper, I¡¯ve got work to handle this afternoon. How about I pick you up after work and we have dinner together?¡± Darwin suggested.


    ¡°Sounds perfect,¡± Brenna replied without hesitation. She wanted Ethan to feel exactly what she had felt¡ªseeing someone he cared about getting close to another person.


    Darwin dropped Brenna off near the Mitchell Group building.


    With a gentle tone, Brenna asked, ¡°Are you sure this is okay? Will you have enough time to go back?¡±


    Darwin motioned toward a high-rise down the road. ¡°That¡¯s the Summit Tower over there. My office is inside, and it only takes a couple of minutes by car. Really, you¡¯re not putting me out at all.¡±


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    Anyone in finance knew the Summit Tower by reputation. It stood tall among venture capital firms and financial giants, a ce Brenna recognized well from her own work in the industry.


    ¡°Alright then, I won¡¯t keep you here any longer,¡± Brenna said. After watching his car slip away into traffic, she turned around and made her way into the building. Alec approached her as soon as she entered. He had been watching her and Darwin since they had stepped out of the car, though he had refrained from approaching earlier to avoid irritating Brenna.


    ¡°So, who was that with you? Brenna, are you really about to end things with Mr. Mitchell?¡± Alec asked.


    Brenna¡¯s answer was sharp, and she had no desire to clear anything up for him. In fact, she saw no point in exining anything to him.


    ¡°It¡¯s none of your business!¡± she retorted bluntly.


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 Chapter 979

    ?Chapter 979:


    Alec felt a surge of frustration. Had she really started seeing him as just a security guard now? Childhood memories of her sweet obedience seemed like a lifetime ago.


    Taking a deep breath, Alec tried to sound calm. ¡°Think about this¡ªyou¡¯re breaking up with a man but still working in his building. Does that make any sense? Mr. Mitchell¡¯s a good man. Don¡¯t throw your rtionship away so easily. Do you think you will find someone better than him? Trust me, you¡¯re making things harder than they need to be. Just go and apologize to him¡­¡±


    ¡°You have no right to interfere in my life,¡± Brenna said, her words cutting, as she stepped into the elevator without looking back.


    Alec tried once more, saying, ¡°I am only telling you this because I care about you¡ª¡±


    ¡°I can handle my own life. Maybe you should worry about yours,¡± she said, leaving Alec staring at the closed elevator doors, his frustration unresolved in the echoing lobby.


    A younger security guard, who was new and seemed eager to be helpful, approached Alec with a hopeful smile and tried to calm him. ¡°Please don¡¯t let it get to you. Rich youngdies can be stubborn sometimes. If talking to her once doesn¡¯t work, just try again.¡±


    Without another word, Alec stormed off toward the security office, his temper ring. While Brenna had not had him fired by Ethan, she also had not acknowledged him as her adoptive father at all.


    Brenna remained as cold as ever, and winning her over felt like an impossible task. If she was going to be so ungrateful, Alec thought, then she could not me him for being ruthless in return.


    After stewing for a while, Alec waited until the younger security guard went on patrol. Then, he took out his phone and called Rosie.


    ¡°Miss Harper? This is Alec. There¡¯s something you need to know¡­¡± He proceeded to tell her everything he had seen today.


    Meanwhile, Rosie lounged in her office chair, spinning idly as Alec spoke. Amusement colored her voice when she replied, ¡°You? Working as a security guard and still hoping that Brenna will ever ept you as her adoptive father? That¡¯s wishful thinking. If she actually wanted to acknowledge you, if she cared about you at all, would you still be doing this? If she felt anything for you, she¡¯d feel guilty seeing you like this. Tell me, has she acted like she cares? Stop fooling yourself. Have you forgotten what I said to you before?¡±


    Alec¡¯s cheeks flushed red with anger. Rosie had a sharp tongue, and every time he called to report something, she would mock him mercilessly. Today was no exception.


    ¡°I remember. You¡¯re only helping me get close to her assets, not trying to make her ept me as her adoptive father.¡± Saying that out loud made him feel belittled. It was humiliating.


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    Rosie didn¡¯t bother hiding her scorn. ¡°That¡¯s right. Do what I tell you, and when the timees, I¡¯ll help you get what you want. Brenna doesn¡¯t treat you like family at all. She owns a string of properties and sits on a fortune worth billions, but have you seen a single penny from her? Has she ever offered you a ce to stay? She¡¯s heartless through and through. Stop expecting anything different from her.¡±


    Frustration weighed heavily on Alec, but he bit back his anger. Wearing the security uniform felt like an unrelenting insult. Being a taxi driver would have stung less. He couldn¡¯t help but wonder if Rosie was deceiving him. Would he ever get to im Brenna¡¯s assets?


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 Chapter 980

    ?Chapter 980:


    He doubted it.


    ¡°Miss Harper, your n is falling apart. She treats me like a stranger, like I am nobody to her, just another guard on the payroll. I could stand here for a decade and never see a single coin from her. She¡¯s making me furious.¡±


    ¡°Why are you in such a hurry? The Harper Group isn¡¯t some small shop you can take over easily. You have to y the long game. If patience is a problem, then handle things yourself. Don¡¯t expect me to help you.¡± With that, she cut the call, unwilling to waste time on Alec¡¯sints.


    A moment passed as Rosie stared at her screen. Then, she called Jordy. ¡°Jordy, remember you said you wanted a second chance with Brenna? Now¡¯s the perfect time.¡±


    On the other end, Jordy sat in a crowded meeting; his family¡¯s business was thriving like never before.


    Curiosity got the better of him. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Jordy asked, leaning back in his chair. News of Ethan picking up Gracie from the airport had reached him, but he didn¡¯t know that Brenna had broken up with Ethan.


    Rosie let out a yfulugh and said, ¡°Brenna and Ethan have broken up. She has even started going on blind dates. You can make your move now.¡±


    The next morning, Ethan sat in the CEO¡¯s office, sifting through a pile of documents. These weren¡¯tpany files but proposals from Rex, filled with strategies that secretaries had racked their brains toe up with on how to win back an ex-girlfriend¡¯s forgiveness.


    Ethan scanned the pages, finding the ideas ridiculous and impractical.


    Just then, Rex knocked and stepped inside, his face unusually grave. Noticing Ethan¡¯s dark circles and the deep crease in his brow, he hesitated, unsure whether to speak up.


    After a tense pause, Rex finally said, ¡°Mr. Mitchell, Miss Harper sent someone to give you something.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s head snapped up, a spark of hope crossing his face as he muttered, ¡°She sent something? Does this mean she wants to reconcile with me?¡± Convincing himself, he said, ¡°It has to be. She must have realized Darwin¡¯s no good for her. She doesn¡¯t want to lose me¡­ Bring them in, now.¡±


    Rex¡¯s expression grew conflicted, as if he were reluctant to shatter Ethan¡¯s optimism. He turned and signaled for Lorna to enter.


    Lorna stepped in nervously, clutching a cardboard box slightlyrger than a shoebox. Her anxiety was palpable; she wondered how Ethan would react when he learned Brenna had returned all his gifts. She had been hesitant toe, afraid of Ethan¡¯s temper.


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    Seeing the exhaustion etched under his eyes only deepened her unease. It was clear he hadn¡¯t slept well, likely tormented by his breakup with Brenna. His weary appearance stirred her sympathy.


    ¡°Lorna?¡± Ethan¡¯s voice betrayed disappointment, a sinking feeling creeping in. Brenna¡¯s past deliveries were always food, but this box clearly held something else.


    Lorna set the box on Ethan¡¯s desk and slid it toward him, avoiding his eyes. She hesitated, dreading the words she had to deliver.


    After a pause, she said, ¡°Mr. Mitchell, Miss Harper asked me to tell you that since you¡¯ve broken up, she¡¯s returning the gifts you gave her. She doesn¡¯t think it¡¯s right to keep them.¡±


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 Chapter 981

    ?Chapter 981:


    The words hit Ethan like a blow. Brenna meant business this time. His gaze dropped to the box, filled with the gifts he had once given her, including the diamond tiara.


    Ethan¡¯s face paled, his expression darkening as he stared at the box. He opened it, examining each item, his mood plummeting further with every second.


    ¡°Is she officially with Darwin now?¡± he asked, his voice tinged with gloom.


    Lorna, unnerved by his intensity, stepped back. ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t know.¡±


    Ethan had no intention of taking the gifts back. Instead, he began to reflect. Had he and Gracie pushed Brenna too far, hurting her? Had he hurt her so deeply that she feltpelled to cut all ties?


    He couldn¡¯t ept that Brenna no longer loved him. To him, this was just her anger talking.


    Pushing the box back toward Lorna, he said firmly, ¡°Take it back. I don¡¯t take back what I¡¯ve given. Tell Brenna I¡¯ll steer clear of Gracie from now on. Ask her to give me another chance.¡±


    Lorna looked like she was in a dilemma. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, I think you should tell her yourself. Miss Harper said you two aren¡¯t right for each other.¡±


    With that, Lorna hurried out. She wasn¡¯t about to defy her boss, no matter how powerful Ethan was.


    Rex and Neville exchanged nces, both opting for silence. They knew speaking now would only ignite Ethan¡¯s anger.


    Without a word, Ethan grabbed the box and stormed out.


    Rex and Neville trailed him to the elevator, but he snapped, ¡°Get out.¡± They left immediately, saying nothing.


    Meanwhile, in Brenna¡¯s office, Lorna was recounting what had happened to Brenna.


    ¡°Miss Harper, I saw Mr. Mitchell¡¯s dark circles. He looked pretty rough,¡± Lorna said, unable to resist speaking up for Ethan. Ethan walked in just in time to hear her words.


    Without missing a beat, he set the box on Brenna¡¯s desk and said to Lorna, ¡°Give us some privacy.¡±


    This time, he spoke calmly because Lorna had vouched for him.


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    orna didn¡¯t dare meddle in Brenna¡¯s and Ethan¡¯s drama and quickly left. Just as she stepped out, Greta walked in with a stack of documents. Lorna grabbed her arm and pulled her out forcibly.


    ¡°What are you doing? I need to speak with Brenna!¡± Greta snapped, wrenching free.


    Lorna shot back, ¡°Oh,e on. You¡¯ve been lounging around all day without a word to her. But the second Mr. Mitchell shows up, you suddenly have urgent business to discuss with her? I¡¯m saving you here. Mr. Mitchell is in an absolutely foul mood right now. If you go in now, you¡¯ll catch his wrath. But if you¡¯re so eager, be my guest. I won¡¯t stop you.¡± With a scoff, Lorna returned to her desk, ignoring Greta.


    Tommy approached Greta and cautioned, ¡°Lorna¡¯s right. Don¡¯t think your little games are going unnoticed. Brenna and Mr. Mitchell are in a rough patch. Do you really think barging in there will end well for you?¡±


    Ethan couldn¡¯t make sense of the chill in Brenna¡¯s eyes. All his years of shing with Elsa had not taught him a thing about making peace with a woman.


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 Chapter 982

    ?Chapter 982:


    The more he tried toe up with a solution, the more tangled his thoughts became. Only a few scraps of advice from the secretarial department came to mind.


    The first bit of wisdom called for an immediate and unconditional apology.


    Second, Ethan was supposed to shower Brenna with gifts.


    The third was to make a show of future promises.


    Ethan figured he had nothing to lose by giving them a try.


    He nudged the box closer to Brenna, forcing a gentle sincerity into his words. His gaze never wavered, searching her features for a sign¡ªwas she just upset, or was she truly finished with him?


    Brenna wouldn¡¯t budge. Her cold demeanor deepened, and a trace of annoyance crept onto her face. She ignored the box and slid it right back to him. Unwilling to give up, Ethan gave it another shot.


    ¡°Hey, Brenna. I bought you a rare, limited-edition handbag. Had it flown in from Valport just for you.¡±


    Brenna had already noticed the box. Her eyes gave it a quick scan, but her face held no trace of excitement. Instead, her lips curled in faint scorn.


    ¡°Bags aren¡¯t exactly rare in my closet. I don¡¯t need another.¡±


    Now, Ethan felt like he¡¯d wandered into uncharted territory. Why had the secretaries¡¯ advice failed?


    He could not figure out what had gone wrong.


    Panic rushed him to the next move. ¡°Brenna, please, don¡¯t do this. I know I made a mistake. I¡¯m sorry. Just give me another chance.¡±


    Ethan thought he was being as humble as possible, taking full responsibility for everything. Not once had he apologized to anyone before, not even when Emmett and Elsa had ganged up on him as a kid. Now, for the first time, he admitted fault¡ªall for Brenna.


    Brenna answered with a sharp, bitterugh, her sarcasm impossible to miss.


    ¡°You made a mistake? Hah. You did nothing wrong. It¡¯s all my fault. How could you possibly be wrong?¡±


    Ethan understood the real reason for her anger and why she refused to forgive him.


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    ¡°Brenna, I crossed a line with Gracie. She¡¯s just a business partner. She helped me a lot when I started thepany, but I shouldn¡¯t have picked her up at the airport with the team. I know I shouldn¡¯t have hosted that dinner for her. Letting her stay at my ce? That was too much.¡±


    He tried toe clean, hoping honesty would earn him forgiveness.


    But Brenna had spent her life dodging veiled barbs and hidden jabs in the Barrett family. She believed Ethan¡¯s tone was insincere.


    To her ears, Ethan¡¯s apology sounded less like remorse and more like an usation that she couldn¡¯t understand his actions.


    ¡°If you want to apologize, then do it. But don¡¯t sit there trying to make me feel guilty at the same time,¡± Brenna snapped, turning away with visible anger.


    Ethan realized toote that he had only made things worse.


    He quickly said, ¡°That¡¯s not what I was doing, Brenna. I¡¯m trying to say I¡¯ve realized my mistake. Tell me how to make this right, and I¡¯ll do it. I¡¯ll do whatever you say.¡±


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 Chapter 983

    ?Chapter 983:


    Brenna responded with a mocking chuckle. ¡°You will do whatever I say? You run the Mitchell Group. You¡¯re the richest man in the world. I wouldn¡¯t dare tell you what to do. Someone as distinguished and wealthy as you should be with Gracie, who¡¯s from the powerful Wilson family.¡±


    She shoved the box toward him again. ¡°Take your things. I don¡¯t want to see them. Just leave.¡±


    None of those tactics had worked.


    Ethan found himself at a dead end. The thought of losing Brenna was unbearable, but frustration and hurt weighed on him. In his mind, he had done nothing wrong. Why couldn¡¯t she just forgive him?


    ¡°Why won¡¯t you forgive me?¡± he asked directly. ¡°You know nothing is going on between Gracie and me. Still, you won¡¯t let the matter slide.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t ept my boyfriend being so close to another woman. To me, you crossed a line. I can¡¯t just look past it,¡± Brenna said, not hiding what she truly felt.


    Anger red in Ethan¡¯s eyes. ¡°And yet, you agreed to meet another guy behind my back! Did you ever consider how that would make me feel? I was also hurt!¡± After a pause, he said with grievance, ¡°You knew how much it would sting if I saw you with someone else, but you did it anyway. Why, Brenna?¡±


    Brenna didn¡¯t back down. ¡°You had no problem hugging Gracie while she had barely any clothes on. All I did was have dinner with someone. You tell me¡ª which of us went too far?¡±


    ¡°I was wearing all my clothes at that time. Gracie was in her underwear, but she was only showing me the scars on her body. She wasn¡¯t trying to flirt with me. You¡¯re twisting things,¡± Ethan said, trying to defend himself.


    ¡°Oh, now you think I¡¯m unreasonable? That¡¯s rich. Why should I forgive you so easily after everything you¡¯ve done? I¡¯m not forgiving you. Get out!¡± Brenna¡¯s finger jabbed toward the door, her words sharp and cutting.


    ¡°This is unbelievable,¡± Ethan muttered under his breath. He was out of exnations. No matter what he said, it seemed Brenna was determined not to forgive him.


    Anger simmered inside him as he retorted, ¡°Fine. I¡¯ll own up to my mistake. But did you really have to go out with someone else just to get even with me? That¡¯s even worse, Brenna! It¡¯s unforgivable!¡±


    Brenna raised an eyebrow, her gaze icy. ¡°We¡¯ve already broken up. Why shouldn¡¯t I see someone new if I want to? And for your information, I do like him. I¡¯m considering dating him, actually. His family¡¯s well-connected¡ªhis dad¡¯s in the police department, and his mom¡¯s the deputy mayor. Not only is he rich and polite, but he doesn¡¯t have scandals clinging to him every other week, unlike you. Now, take your things and leave!¡±


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    Ethan¡¯s face flushed with rage. He couldn¡¯t believe how little Brenna seemed to recognize that she, too, was in the wrong.


    Without another word, he stormed out, leaving the box on the desk behind.


    Brenna quickly snatched up the box and ran after him. As the elevator doors opened and Ethan stepped in, she tossed the box into the elevator without hesitation, the contents spilling onto the floor. Inside the elevator, Ethan punched the wall in frustration, refusing to pick up the scattered items.


    The elevator dinged on the ny-ninth floor. Rex and Neville, waiting nearby, immediately noticed the mess on the floor. One look at Ethan¡¯s stormy face told them everything they needed to know¡ªhe had failed to win Brenna¡¯s forgiveness.


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 Chapter 984

    ?Chapter 984:


    Back at his office, Ethan mmed the door with a loud thud.


    Rex and Neville stepped into the elevator, carefully gathering the expensive items from the floor. Rex shook his head. ¡°What are we supposed to do with all this stuff? The diamond tiara alone is worth a fortune. I heard it¡¯s worth over a billion.¡±


    Neville shrugged, deep in thought. After a moment, he spoke up. ¡°There¡¯s a safe here, right? Everything here is worth more than what we¡¯ll make in a lifetime. Even if Mr. Mitchell never gives it to Miss Harper again, we can¡¯t just throw it away. Let¡¯s lock it up in the safe for now.¡±


    Inside the office, Ethan leaned against the window, smoking in silence. The phone rang and vibrated on his desk, but the noise only added to his annoyance. He eventually turned it off without checking the screen.


    Smoke filled the room, and by the end of the hour, the ashtray was overflowing.


    Meanwhile, Brenna fumed alone in her own office. Grumbling under her breath, she paced back and forth.


    ¡°He can say sorry all he wants. Back then, he knew exactly how I¡¯d feel, but he still went ahead and did it. That proves he never cared about my feelings. Now he wants forgiveness? No way. If I forgave him this time, what would he do next? Sleep with Gracie and apologize to me again? Only a fool would forgive him. He¡¯s the worst man alive. Darwin is so much better than him!¡±


    Greta hovered outside Brenna¡¯s office, her hand raised to knock several times, but faltering each time. She struggled to find the right words to encourage Brenna to forgive Ethan and apologize to him. Deep down, she felt Brenna shouldn¡¯t have treated Ethan that way, especially throwing his things like that.


    Other coworkers gave Greta disdainful looks. Everyone saw through her intentions and looked down on her for it. Eventually, Greta didn¡¯t knock and slipped back to her own desk, abandoning the idea of talking to Brenna.


    Over the next three days, Ethan didn¡¯te to see Brenna again. Brenna avoided the cafeteria and instead spent her lunches with Darwin at the restaurant down the street. Unwilling to face the stares and whispers, Ethan had Rex bring his meals directly to his office.


    His brow furrowed as he scrolled through the pictures his bodyguard had sent over. Each photo showed Brenna and Darwin talking andughing together, raising their sses in a cheerful toast. The more Ethan looked, the angrier he became. It felt like Brenna was slipping further and further away from him.


    Saturday soon arrived. Brenna spent the afternoon at Ellie¡¯s studio, searching for the perfect dress.


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    Ellie, hunched over hertest project, finally spoke up after holding back her curiosity all week. ¡°So, you¡¯re serious about the breakup with Ethan?¡± Constant updates about Darwin on Brenna¡¯s Facebook made it obvious to Ellie that her friend had really taken an interest in him.


    Brenna gave a small nod. ¡°I am. My mom is right¡ªgetting tangled up with wealthy men never ends well. It¡¯s smarter to steer clear of anyone with too much power.¡±


    Ellie replied, ¡°Exactly. Look what happened with Jayceon. I was pregnant, but he refused to marry me because his family wouldn¡¯t ept me. That¡¯s just an excuse. Honestly, Ethan¡¯s no different from Jayceon. He¡¯s just as bad. The way he treats Gracie, you¡¯d think she means more to him than you do. He bends over backwards for her.¡±


    Brenna nodded in agreement with Ellie¡¯s opinion. Several days had passed since the incident, and she no longer felt as upset. She had epted her breakup with Ethan. As she thoughtfully browsed through Ellie¡¯stest gown collection, she eventually chose a stunning off-the-shoulder gold dress.


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 Chapter 985

    ?Chapter 985:


    Things had changed. When Ellie was still single, Brenna often took dresses from her without paying. But now that Ellie was married and had reconciled with her family, she had to support her loved ones, including her parents and younger brother. Brenna transferred around three hundred thousand to her. Ellie¡¯s creations were unique, and the dress Brenna chose was decorated with gold-leaf sequins and tiny diamonds. The craftsmanship was exquisite, and the fabrics were of the highest quality.


    The three hundred thousand simply covered the production costs. If Ellie were to sell the dress, its minimum price would be three million.


    Ellie epted the transfer with a smile and no objections. Both she and Brenna were financially stable, and Ellie figured that declining the money might make Brenna hesitant to ask her for dresses in the future.


    ¡°Since you¡¯ve been feeling a bit downtely, how about we go on vacation tomorrow?¡± Ellie suggested.


    Brenna paused to consider. ¡°I can¡¯t. I have a few orders to finish, and the clients are getting impatient. Plus, it¡¯s near the year¡¯s end, and I need to attend an event for the Harper Group.¡±


    Ellie casually shrugged. ¡°Well, I guess I¡¯ll just go on a vacation with my family then.¡±


    ¡°Enjoy yourself,¡± Brenna said with a warm smile.


    At around six in the evening, Brenna arrived at the Boatwright Hotel with Shepard, Giselle, Ernst, and Lilith. The Wilson Group was hosting a wee banquet there for Gracie.


    Just as Brenna stepped out of the car, Darwin approached with a polite smile and offered his arm in a gentlemanly gesture. He then greeted the Harper family warmly.


    The Harper family had a favorable opinion of Darwin. He was not only good-looking but also well-mannered.


    Darwin¡¯s eyes brightened when he saw Brenna¡¯s shimmering gown and wless makeup. ¡°You look absolutely gorgeous in this dress,¡± he said sincerely.


    ¡°Thank you. A friend designed the dress for me,¡± Brenna responded, her voice polite and reserved. Though she smiled to maintain warmth, only she knew that she liked Darwin as a friend and didn¡¯t have any romantic feelings for him.


    Walking alongside Brenna, Lilith nced at Darwin and yfully whispered, ¡°He is good-looking.¡±


    Brenna gave a slight nod, her slender fingers resting gently on Darwin¡¯s arm while maintaining a respectful distance. Though their proximity suggested familiarity, Brenna always felt a sense of difort around him and instinctively preferred to keep some distance. ¡°Yeah.¡±


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    Dressed in an equally luxurious gown, Lilith was aware of the situation between Ethan and Gracie. She had purposely chosen a bold red dress tonight to outshine Gracie and show her support for Brenna. When she saw Brenna¡¯s striking gown, she smiled with satisfaction. With both of them dressed to impress, they were certain to attract everyone¡¯s attention.


    ¡°What do you think of my dress? Your brother picked it for me,¡± Lilith said in a low voice.


    As they entered the elevator, a mocking voice echoed from behind. ¡°Didn¡¯t take you long after breaking up with Mr. Mitchell to find someone new. You sure move on quickly, Brenna.¡±


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 Chapter 986

    ?Chapter 986:


    Brenna turned to see Tina pushing Jayceon¡¯s wheelchair as they entered the elevator together.


    Jayceon¡¯s face was expressionless, but his eyes held a frosty glint directed at Brenna. He believed she was being unreasonably harsh with Ethan. In his mind, Ethan had never needed to apologize to anyone. Most people would be honored just to receive a kind word from him. But Brenna? She dared to show him no regard at all.


    Noticing Jayceon¡¯s anger, Brenna felt increasingly annoyed and didn¡¯t bother to hide her irritation when speaking to Tina.


    ¡°I heard you¡¯ve had a crush on Ethan for years. Your brother¡¯s one of his closest friends, so why haven¡¯t you managed to win him over? Now that I¡¯ve broken up with him and he¡¯s single, why hasn¡¯t he chosen you?¡±


    She gave Tina a quick once-over, noticing the thickyers of makeup on her face. It looked as though she was trying to hide something.


    Brenna continued, ¡°With makeup that heavy, are you still covering up the bruises from thest time you got hit? Scared someone might notice?¡±


    Standing nearby, Lilith gave Brenna an approving nod for her sharp words. Darwin also added, ¡°Ah, Miss Russell. I didn¡¯t recognize you with all that makeup on. My apologies.¡±


    Tina¡¯s expression darkened, though her paleplexion was hidden beneathyers of heavy makeup.


    She snapped, ¡°Don¡¯t get too full of yourself, Brenna. I heard Ethan yed a big role in organizing this banquet for Gracie. Word is, they¡¯re going public with their rtionship tonight. Looks like you¡¯re finally getting what you deserve¡ªbeing dumped. And this guy beside you¡­ Did you pay him toe here with you? No matter how handsome he is, it doesn¡¯t change the fact that you were abandoned by Ethan!¡±


    Darwin, acquainted with members of the four major families, knew exactly who Tina was. He had attended numerous public banquets hosted by these families and had heard much about her. He liked Brenna and wasn¡¯t about to let her be insulted.


    With a calm tone, he said to Tina, ¡°Miss Russell, you¡¯ve got it wrong. Miss Harper was the one who ended things with Ethan. If anyone was dumped, it was him.¡±


    As the elevator doors began to slide shut, a figure darted forward with a shout. ¡°Hold it!¡±


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    Jordy slipped inside just in time, his eyes locking onto Brenna, who stood arminarm with another man. His expression soured. ¡°Brenna, already found yourself a new boyfriend?¡±


    The elevator¡¯s warning buzzer red: it was over capacity.


    Brenna didn¡¯t miss a beat. Firing back, she said, ¡°That¡¯s not your concern. Get out.¡±


    Jordy smoothed his hair, undeterred. ¡°Why should I be the one to leave?¡± As the current head of a family ranked just below the elite Four, being forced out of an elevator felt like an affront to his pride. No way was he stepping out.


    Brenna stood her ground. ¡°Because you were thest person to get in.¡± With a swift motion, she lifted the hem of her dress, raised her leg, and kicked Jordy back out of the elevator.


    ¡°You!¡± Jordy bellowed from the hallway as he tried to reenter. ¡°I¡¯m your exboyfriend! How could you treat me like this?¡±


    Brenna delivered another sharp kick.


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 Chapter 987

    ?Chapter 987:


    Laughter erupted from the passengers inside. Lilith shed a grin and gave Brenna a thumbsup. ¡°Nice one, Brenna!¡±


    ¡°How rude,¡± Tina muttered under her breath, clearly put off by the bold gesture.


    The elevator soon reached the fifth floor. Brenna and Darwin stepped out first, followed by Ernst, who took Jayceon¡¯s wheelchair from Tina and wheeled him toward Ethan. Ernst needed to verify Tina¡¯s im¡ªwas Ethan really about to announce his rtionship with Gracie tonight? Ethan had once mentioned that Gracie was married, so what was this all about?


    As expected, when Brenna and Lilith swept into the banquet hall, all eyes turned to them. Lilith¡¯s striking red gownmanded attention, its bold hue captivating the room. Brenna¡¯s golden dress sparkled with luxurious brilliance, outshining every other woman present. Under the glowing chandeliers, she shone like a star.


    Beside her, Tina appeared in, a mere shadow in Brenna¡¯s radiance.


    She simmered with resentment. ¡°Don¡¯t get too smug. Just wait until Ethan and Gracie announce their rtionship; you¡¯ll be the one humiliated!¡±


    Waiters glided through the crowd with trays of drinks. Tina¡¯s gaze fixed on a ss of red wine, an idea forming in her mind. She trailed Brenna, delicately taking the ss of red wine.


    Darwin leaned toward Brenna, his voice low. ¡°What would you like to drink?¡±


    ¡°Anything¡¯s fine,¡± she replied.


    Tonight, Brenna was there to steal the spotlight from Ethan and Gracie. She aimed to radiate poise and dazzle, outshining every woman in the room, especially Gracie.


    Darwin handed her a vibrant blue cocktail. ¡°This one¡¯s good. Try it.¡±


    ¡°Thanks,¡± Brenna said, epting the drink.


    Tina knew she couldn¡¯t just douse Brenna with wine in front of everyone. She needed an opportunity. Scanning the room, she spotted Rosie and Maxley chatting with the Wilson Group executives. With a calcted smile, she walked toward them.


    But a few steps in, her eyes locked onto a figure she recognized, her face contorting with rage. A heavyset woman and Denis wereughing with the Wilson Group¡¯s people.


    That woman, Judy, had left Tina with bruises on her face that still lingered. Tina¡¯s grip tightened on her wine ss. She didn¡¯t dare approach them now, but the urge for revenge burned hot.


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    Her brother, Jayceon, hade with her tonight. She believed Jayceon could surely deal with Judy. After all, Judy was merely the sister of a crime boss. How could she stand against the might of one of the four most powerful families?


    Tina scanned the room for Jayceon but couldn¡¯t find him.


    Brenna, spotting Judy too, leaned close to Tina and said coolly, ¡°Look at that. Your nemesis is here. I recall how brutally she hit youst time. Can you really let that go?¡±


    Tina¡¯s anger red. ¡°It¡¯s none of your business!¡±


    In a fit of fury, she lost all restraint. Without thinking, she hurled her ss of red wine at Brenna.


    But Brenna was ready for such a petty move. With quick reflexes, she grabbed Tina¡¯s wrist, redirecting the wine to ssh across Tina¡¯s own face.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Tina screeched, her voice shrill as wine dripped down her cheeks, soaking her dress. Enraged, she lunged forward at Brenna.


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 Chapter 988

    ?Chapter 988:


    Darwin acted quickly, pushing Tina back before she could get close to Brenna. The nearby guests stepped aside, and Tina crashed to the floor in an ungraceful sprawl.


    Lilith¡¯sughter rang out first, soon joined by chuckles from the crowd.


    Humiliated, Tina scrambled to her feet, her face flushing with fury. She red at Brenna. ¡°Don¡¯t think you¡¯ve won! Just wait until my brother deals with you! Brenna, you won¡¯t be smug for long. Wait until Ethan deres Gracie as his new girlfriend. Let¡¯s see if you can still hold your head high then!¡±


    ¡°His new girlfriend? Not my concern. I dumped him. He can chase whoever he wants,¡± Brenna retorted sharply.


    Lilith joined in, taunting Tina, ¡°Exactly! Just because you dated someone doesn¡¯t mean you can¡¯t move on and meet new people. I heard you¡¯re into Mr. Mitchell. Why not go for him? Oh, wait¡ªdidn¡¯t you already try, getting naked and sneaking into his hotel room, only to get tossed out?¡±


    Tina¡¯s cheeks flushed deeper as the mortifying memory of that surveince footage being yed in the auction hall flooded back.


    ¡°Mark my words¡ªI won¡¯t let you off easily!¡± she spat, her voice dripping with venom.


    Confusion creased Lilith¡¯s brow as she shot Tina a pointed look. ¡°There¡¯s something off about her. Every time you cross paths, she tries to stir up drama. Maybe she thinks that now that you¡¯ve broken up with Ethan, she can humiliate you.¡±


    With a shrug, Brenna clinked her ss with Lilith¡¯s. Rather than mingle, the two slipped into a secluded corner, away from the crowd.


    Brenna said, ¡°Tina has had feelings for Ethan for ages but has never had the guts to tell him. Her brother is tight with Ethan, so she¡¯s always trying to use that connection, but Ethan barely spares her a nce.¡±


    As the conversation carried on, Brenna spotted Gracie and Ethan exiting the lounge together. Gracie was holding onto Ethan¡¯s arm, but Ethan calmly removed her hand, maintaining a polite distance. His eyes scanned the room, clearly searching for Brenna.


    Uninterested in a confrontation, Brenna signaled to Lilith to stand up and block her from Ethan¡¯s view.


    Lilithplied and stepped right in front of Brenna, even tossing a disapproving nce over her shoulder at Ethan.


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    She turned back to Brenna. ¡°There was a time when I thought Ethan was good for you¡ªloyal, someone you could count on. But now? He¡¯s standing there ying support for another woman. Did he even ask if you were okay with that? Is he about to give you some speech about how he and Gracie are just friends?¡±


    Brenna let out a sigh, shaking her head. ¡°He bends over backwards for Gracie, then expects me to believe there¡¯s nothing between them. Who would believe that?¡±


    Lilith turned again, catching sight of Ethan introducing Gracie to the city¡¯s most influential families. Jayceon and Ernst hovered nearby, and Denis was there with Judy beside him. Gracie seemed to be the star of the evening, with everyone¡¯s attention locked on her.


    ¡°Just look. Ethan¡¯s making her the focus, and now, even your brother¡¯s ying along. Didn¡¯t your brother just promise to ask Ethan about his rtionship with Gracie for you? Seems like he doesn¡¯t mean that at all.¡±


    Annoyance bubbled up in Lilith. Her disappointment in Ernst was clear.


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 Chapter 989

    ?Chapter 989:


    ¡°Forget it, Lilith,¡± Brenna replied. ¡°They¡¯re just talking business. Ernst already knew about me and Ethan splitting up, and honestly, he¡¯s never tried to defend Ethan or pressure me to get back together with him.¡±


    A dramatic eye roll from Lilith made her opinion of Ernst¡¯s behavior clear. ¡°I¡¯m definitely asking himter what he thinks he¡¯s doing, cozying up to Gracie like that. How could he get close to an outsider who hurt you before? That¡¯s just outrageous. He¡¯s your brother, after all.¡±


    Setting her ss aside, Brenna said, ¡°I need to use the restroom.¡±


    Without hesitation, Lilith put down her drink as well. ¡°Let¡¯s go together. No sense wasting our time on those men any longer.¡±


    Purses in hand, the two made their way toward the restroom. It didn¡¯t take long before they spotted Gracie heading there too. Being closer, she reached the restroom before Brenna and Lilith could.


    Brenna tugged on Lilith¡¯s arm. ¡°Let¡¯s wait a bit. I don¡¯t want to run into her.¡±


    With a quiet nod, Lilith agreed, and both she and Brenna slowed down. Then, they encountered some people they knew and exchanged pleasantries for a while. Afterward, they headed toward the restroom again.


    Just then, a voice echoed down the hallway. ¡°Brenna!¡± Ethan¡¯s voice was strained, tinged with pain as he hurried after them.


    Without looking back, Brenna ducked into the women¡¯s restroom, shutting out any chance of conversation.


    Ethan had no choice but to wait outside the women¡¯s restroom.


    Relief flooded Brenna as she patted her chest after getting inside, grateful for the narrow escape.


    A shared nce passed between her and Lilith. Then, they each disappeared into a separate stall.


    Meanwhile, in another stall, Gracie was about to leave when her phone began to vibrate. The name on the disy sent a cold wave of dread through her. With every ring, her fear grew. She didn¡¯t want to take the call. Luckily, the call eventually ended automatically, granting her a shaky exhale.


    Stepping out, Gracie barely had a second to steady herself before the ringtone red once more, every note fueling her fear.


    The person on the other end refused to give up. Ignoring the call wasn¡¯t an option¡ªshe knew what would happen if she did.


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    Shaking, she pressed ¡°answer.¡±


    ¡°Hector, darling, is something wrong?¡± Her voice wavered as she fought to sound calm.


    Her mind was already conjuring up images of Hector¡¯s furious face.


    ¡°Where are you?¡± Hector¡¯s voice was icy, and even through the phone, Gracie could sense his anger.


    She also caught the faint sound of an airport announcement in the background. Her heart sank.


    ¡°I-I¡¯m at the Peace Hotel in Shirie. There¡¯s a wee dinner for me, and the Wilson Group is making business connections here in Vand. Why, is something the matter, darling? Where are you now?¡±


    Every previous question about his whereabouts had ended badly for her, so she usually avoided asking him about that. But today, fear had pushed her to take the risk; she was eager to know if he was already on his way to Vand. No matter how unlikely it was that Hector would actually travel to Vand, Gracie lied about where she was anyway, not wanting him to be able to find her.


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 Chapter 990

    Chapter 990:


    ¡°Word is you¡¯ve been spending a lot of time with Ethantely?¡±


    The question struck like a thunderp, Hector¡¯s voice cold and unyielding. Gracie¡¯s grip on her phone tightened so much that it nearly slipped from her damp palms. A wave of panic washed over her, draining the color from her face. Denial leapt from her lips before she could even think.


    ¡°No, that isn¡¯t true. I¡¯ve just been using him to boost our business. Please don¡¯t believe what they say.¡±


    Anxiety twisted her thoughts into knots. Who had been trailing her movements? Who could have tipped Hector off about what she¡¯d been up to?


    She was scared, yet clung to the hope that Hector¡¯s reach wouldn¡¯t extend this far. He was always on business trips. There was no reason for him to be in Vand.


    Just then, a sudden realization dawned¡ªthe airport announcement she¡¯d just heard started in Vand¡¯snguage.


    Her legs threatened to give out. Hector had reallye to Vand.


    What should she do now? The phone in her hand seemed to pulse with menace, like a monster that might swallow her whole.


    Hector¡¯s mocking words sliced through the silence. ¡°Is that so?¡±


    Uncertainty gripped Gracie. He must¡¯ve found something out; that had to be why he hade here. He was going to beat her again!


    A handful of peaceful days had been all she had managed. Now, that fragilefort shattered beneath a new wave of dread.


    She said, ¡°Everything¡¯s going well. I¡¯vended some new contracts and will send you the details soon.¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, the line went dead.


    For a long moment, Gracie simply stared at her phone, her mind nk. Suddenly, the soft click of the door of a stall opening echoed. Tina emerged, wearing a smile.


    From her expression, it was clear she¡¯d overheard every word Gracie had just said.


    ¡°Hello, Miss Wilson. I¡¯m Tina, Jayceon¡¯s sister.¡± She extended her hand in greeting.


    Instead of shaking her hand right away, Gracie kept her distance, studying Tina with suspicion.


    Nothing mattered more to Gracie than keeping her secrets: her marriage and the violence she endured. Besides Ethan, she didn¡¯t want anyone else to know about these things.


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    It was impossible to tell how much Tina had overheard, or what conclusions she might have drawn from her conversation with Hector.


    After a cool pause, Gracie finally nodded slightly and reached out to shake Tina¡¯s hand. ¡°Pleasure to meet you, Miss Russell.¡±


    Deep down, Tina epted that Ethan would never be hers, but as long as he didn¡¯t choose Brenna, she¡¯d be happy¡ªanyone else would do. It was the perfect way to spite Brenna.


    Tina said, ¡°Miss Wilson, you¡¯re stunning. I think you and Mr. Mitchell make a wonderful pair. You are a far better match for Ethan than Brenna.¡±


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Gracie replied, quietly relieved that she hadn¡¯t put her phone on speaker earlier. If Tina had heard Hector¡¯s words, she might¡¯ve gone straight to Ethan with it.


    They turned to leave the restroom. Holding the door open, Tina gestured for Gracie to go ahead.


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    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


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 Chapter 991

    ?Chapter 991:


    Not until the soft click of the closing door echoed did Brenna emerge from her stall.


    A secondter, Lilith followed suit, and the two stood together to talk.


    A mischievous sparkle danced in Lilith¡¯s eyes as she whispered, ¡°Brenna, when Gracie talked about ¡®using him,¡¯ who do you suppose she meant? Was it Ethan?¡±


    That guess actually made sense, and a tiny smirk crept across Brenna¡¯s face. She relished the idea. ¡°Sounds about right. If he gets tricked by Gracie, that¡¯s his problem. He had iting.¡±


    After a pause, she continued, ¡°Still, the way Gracie spoke on that call¡­ She sounded absolutely terrified of whoever was on the other end of the line. Maybe she was lying about using that person.¡±


    Lilith gave a quick nod. ¡°Yeah, I noticed. She called the person on the other end ¡®darling.¡¯ Was the person her boyfriend? Her husband? She definitely has a special rtionship with that person. I¡¯d love to know the whole story,¡± she whispered, inching toward the door to listen. Sensing there was no one outside, she stepped out.


    Brenna followed, stopping to wash her hands and fix her makeup in the mirror. The mystery tugged at her, too. What would Ethan do if he figured out Gracie was deceiving him?


    But then again, she wasn¡¯t sure Gracie had been honest with the guy on the phone. Gracie was clearly afraid of him. If it were Brenna, she wouldn¡¯t be telling him the truth either.


    Ready to return to the venue, Brenna and Lilith caught sight of Ethan and Gracie at the far end of the corridor. Gracie¡¯s tears were streaming down her cheeks.


    Ethan fished out a tissue and dabbed at her face.


    Just then, he turned his head and locked eyes with Brenna.


    Panic shed across his face. He believed he was unable to exin this to Brenna; she definitely misunderstood him now.


    Abandoning Gracie, he walked toward Brenna.


    Rolling her eyes, Brenna muttered to Lilith, ¡°Block him for me.¡± With that, she turned and left.


    Lilith spread her arms wide to block Ethan¡¯s path. ¡°What now? Going to im you and Gracie are just friends? Brenna just saw you wiping Gracie¡¯s tears with her own eyes. You really think she¡¯ll buy that there¡¯s nothing between you and Gracie?¡±


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    ¡°Stay out of this. It¡¯s none of your business,¡± Ethan said, pushing forward, frustration boiling over.


    Lilith let out an exaggerated shriek. ¡°Somebody help! He¡¯s trying to harass me!¡±


    Furious, Ethan had no choice but to retreat, disappearing down the hall before Ernst could see this.


    Lilith almost collided with Tina on her way out.


    With fury written all over her face, Tina shot Lilith a re and snapped, ¡°You were also in the restroom earlier, weren¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I was. Why does it matter?¡± Lilith replied, not missing a beat.


    Instead of prolonging the confrontation, Tina shed her another look of irritation and stormed off in Ethan¡¯s direction.


    Her expression was a mix of anxiety and eagerness to please. ¡°Ethan, there¡¯s something you need to hear. You won¡¯t believe what just happened!¡±


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 Chapter 992

    ?Chapter 992:


    Building suspense was her usual tactic, but Ethan had zero interest in ying along. Thest thing he wanted was more of Tina¡¯s theatrics. With a look of utter disinterest, he ignored her and strode straight to Gracie.


    Being ignored only stoked Tina¡¯s frustration. What did Gracie and Brenna have that shecked? Why did Ethan dislike her so much?


    Regardless, Tina believed her information was too valuable for Ethan to brush aside. Stepping in front of him, she handed over her phone. ¡°See for yourself¡ªsomeone¡¯s been taking photos of you in secret.¡± This time, she went directly to the point.


    Ethan reached for her phone and studied the disy. Gracie also walked over and leaned in close, her eyes widening as she immediately recognized the face in the photograph. That familiar profile belonged to a high-ranking executive from the Wilson Group. Although only a portion of the man¡¯s face was visible, there was no mistaking the way he angled his own phone, snapping covert pictures of the hallway.


    Ethan and Gracie had been in the hallway for a while, and it was clear the man had been taking photos of them in secret.


    Ethan returned the phone to Tina, and his voice softened a notch. ¡°Thanks for letting us know. This actually helps.¡±


    A spark of happiness flickered in Tina¡¯s eyes. Ethan had finally spoken to her kindly.


    The feeling faded as quickly as it came when Ethan added, ¡°We need privacy to talk. Please leave us for now.¡±


    Hoping to stay in Ethan¡¯s good graces, Tina left, even though she wished she could linger.


    Meanwhile, a knot tightened in Gracie¡¯s stomach. ¡°Ethan, that guy works for Hector. What if Hector shows up soon? I¡¯m honestly scared. What should I do?¡±


    Ethan¡¯s face grew serious as he was lost in thought. After a brief pause, he snapped into action. He called Neville right away. ¡°Help me block a man from entering this ce.¡±


    He asked Gracie for a photo of Hector, then forwarded it to Neville.


    Back at their original table, Brenna and Lilith enjoyed some fruit sd, sipping juice and chatting.


    Their peaceful moment was soon interrupted when Rosie strolled over with Judy beside her. Even though Judy was overweight, no one dared to mock her because of her identity.


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    ¡°Howe you¡¯re not mingling with the rest of the guests?¡± Rosie said to Brenna. She thought Brenna was putting on a facade of indifference, chatting andughing as though nothing was wrong. She believed Brenna was actually heartbroken after being dumped by Ethan.


    Deep down, Rosie believed Brenna¡¯s Barrett family upbringing was a shackle she¡¯d never escape, no matter what the Harper name might bring her now. And that was precisely why the wealthy young women in their circle steered clear of Brenna. It wasn¡¯t Brenna¡¯s choice not to talk to them; it was just that everyone else looked down on her and didn¡¯t want to socialize with her. Despite being an orphan, Rosie saw herself as both privileged and superior to Brenna. She was the center of attention the moment she came here, surrounded by wealthy women eager to curry favor with her.


    Meanwhile, not a single person had so much as greeted Brenna all evening.


    ¡°Did you need something?¡± Brenna sidestepped Rosie¡¯s question.


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 Chapter 993

    ?Chapter 993:


    Rosie introduced Judy to Brenna, saying, ¡°I wanted to introduce you to a friend. This is Judy. She¡¯s getting married to Denis next week.¡±


    Judy extended her hand toward Brenna. ¡°Miss Harper, it¡¯s lovely to meet you. You¡¯re absolutely stunning.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Inwardly, Brenna held little fondness for Judy. She had heard rumors that Judy was violent and unreasonable. She was not a good person.


    Judy had many ws, but she wasn¡¯t stupid. In fact, she was very perceptive. She immediately sensed Brenna¡¯s dislike for her. ¡°Miss Harper, am I not wee here?¡±


    Leveling Judy with a steady look, Brenna answered coolly, ¡°I am not the one hosting this event. Whether you feel wee isn¡¯t my concern.¡±


    Judy caught the implication right away¡ªBrenna indeed disliked her.


    Standing close by, Lilith grew uneasy. She gave Brenna¡¯s dress a subtle tug, sensing the danger in pushing Judy¡¯s buttons.


    ¡°Are you upset about Ethan dumping you? Is that why you¡¯reing at me like this?¡± Judy¡¯s voice boomed. She was visibly angry.


    A short distance away, Tina watched the scene with delight. She sauntered over and added fuel to the fire, her tone dripping with sarcasm. ¡°You¡¯ve got it all wrong. She just dislikes you because you¡¯re fat. She even called you a pig when you weren¡¯t around. I was right there when she said it.¡±


    Both Brenna and Lilith turned to her. Lilith¡¯s voice trembled with anger. ¡°That¡¯s a lie! Brenna never said anything like that.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s gaze was icy. She knew exactly what Tina was trying to do; she was stirring up trouble for her on purpose.


    Tina looked at Judy with seriousness. ¡°Ms. Mendoza, she really said that. I heard it with my own ears. She also said that even though Ethan dumped her, there are still plenty of people who adore her, unlike you, who has to desperately chase after men.¡±


    Seeing Judy¡¯s fury rise by the second, Tina quietly slipped away.


    ¡°Tell me, is that true?¡± Judy asked Brenna, her eyes zing with anger.


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    While Tina basked in her own satisfaction, believing she had riled Judy and that Brenna was about to face Judy¡¯s wrath, her triumphant grin hadn¡¯t even faded when someone seized her arm in a firm hold. The sudden grip sent jolts of pain racing up her arm, making her believe her bones might actually snap. A shriek escaped her lips before she could stop it.


    Swinging her head around, she stared in disbelief¡ªBrenna was the one holding her.


    Shock drained all color from Tina¡¯s face, yet fury quickly reced any fear. Her re cut straight to Brenna. She was stunned that someone as thin as Brenna could have such strength. ¡°Let go. That hurts a lot.¡±


    ¡°You really thought you could lie and get away with it? Do you think you can just mess with me easily?¡± Brenna¡¯s stare stayed locked on Tina, not the slightest sign of fear showing on her face.


    The scuffle quickly attracted a crowd.


    Ernst caught themotion from across the room. At first, worry creased his brow, certain his sister was being bullied. When he realized Brenna was standing her ground, his worry faded.


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 Chapter 994

    ?Chapter 994:


    Shepard and Giselle, who had been chatting with acquaintances, also noticed the situation and made their way over.


    Elsewhere, a waiter darted down the hall to find Ethan and report what had just unfolded.


    Ethan, with his phone in one hand and the other resting in his pocket, said to the phone, ¡°Is he here yet?¡±


    ¡°Not at the moment, sir. I¡¯m keeping an eye on the entrance,¡± Neville answered on the other end.


    Ethan ended the call and looked at the waiter. ¡°What happened?¡±


    The waiter blurted out, ¡°Something¡¯s up with the Harper¡¯s daughter.¡±


    That news wiped away whatever calm Ethan had left. Without a word, he followed the waiter at a brisk pace, walking back to the hall.


    From behind, Gracie called out, ¡°Ethan, what about me? Hector¡¯s about to be here!¡±


    Ethan definitely heard her, but he pressed on, even picking up speed as the crowd thickened. His worry only eased when he caught sight of Brenna, seeing that things hadn¡¯t spiraled out of control.


    Standing in the middle of familiar people¡ªher family, her ex-boyfriend, and Darwin, thetest match her mother had arranged for her¡ªBrenna felt braver than ever. With so many people backing her up, what did she have to fear? Not that she was afraid to begin with.


    Jayceon rolled closer in his wheelchair, his jaw clenched tight as he red at Brenna. ¡°Miss Harper, you need to let go of my sister.¡±


    Despite the fact that Tina and Jayceon shared only a father, they were still family. No matter how much he disliked her, he couldn¡¯t stand by and watch her be bullied.


    Brenna offered Jayceon nothing more than a quick look, her face showing not the slightest flicker of interest.


    Pain twisted across Tina¡¯s features, yet her mind worked overtime, searching for any escape. She realized that with so many Harpers in the room¡ªand Ethan close by¡ªJudy would never risk starting trouble with Brenna.


    Frustration ate at her. She had spent so much time devising this brilliant n, thinking that once she left, Judy would immediately beat Brenna. But instead, she hadn¡¯t even managed to escape before Brenna caught her.


    Her anger red as she stared at Brenna. ¡°What are you trying to do? Let me go, now!¡±


    ¡°Say it clearly. Did I ever call Judy fat?¡± Brenna¡¯s tone stayed cool and unbothered; she clearly didn¡¯t mind the growing audience.


    Judy walked over, her face red with anger, Denis trailing at her heels. Old resentment burned in Denis¡¯ eyes;st time, Brenna had taken half of his money, and now, he was tempted to use the chaos to get back at her.


    He weighed his options but realized that this was not the right moment, not with the Harper family and Ethan nearby. Still, that didn¡¯t stop him from trying to turn Judy against Brenna.


    He said, ¡°Honey, don¡¯t let it get to you. You¡¯re not fat; you¡¯ve just got curves. Brenna¡¯s thinner than you¡ªthat¡¯s all. She wasn¡¯t trying to offend you¡ª¡±


    ¡°If you don¡¯t know how to speak properly, shut up!¡± Judy barked at him, gripping his arm so tightly that he nearly cried out in pain before letting go.


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 Chapter 995

    ?Chapter 995:


    Pain showed on Denis¡¯ face. ¡°Honey, we don¡¯t need to stir up trouble we can¡¯t handle. Brenna¡¯s got an army behind her, and we are clearly outmatched¡­¡±


    But Judy would not have it. Her voice rang out. ¡°Backing down has never been my style, not before and definitely not today! Even if every Harper shows up, I¡¯ll still¡ª¡±


    ¡°Face Brenna head-on. If she really said that, I would make her get down on her knees, begging me for forgiveness.¡±


    Judy barreled ahead, her cheeks burning red with rage. Before anyone could react, she struck Tina across the cheek. ¡°Don¡¯t pretend you¡¯re some good person! Be straight with me¡ªdid Brenna call me fat or not?¡±


    Fury shed in Tina¡¯s eyes. She had tried to set Judy and Brenna against each other, only to find herself caught in the crossfire.


    Jayceon¡¯s voice thundered. ¡°Ms. Mendoza! You¡¯re a little on the heavy side. Does it really matter if people point that out? Are you going to silence anyone who tells the truth?¡±


    The anger in Judy only grew hotter after she heard that. She turned to Jayceon, wanting to p him, too. But Ethan, standing beside Jayceon, wasn¡¯t about to let that happen. On Jayceon¡¯s other side, Ernst was standing there. Both Ethan and Ernst grabbed Judy¡¯s arm at the same time to stop her.


    Judy had never learned how to fight; she relied on sheer brute force and the number of bodyguards at her side. That alone usually kept people from daring to cross her.


    But when Ethan and Ernst moved to stop her at the same time, Judy¡¯s advantage vanished in an instant.


    With an air of disgust, Ethan released her and wiped his palm with a tissue from his pocket, as though just touching Judy left him needing to scrub away the experience.


    ¡°You are indeed overweight, Ms. Mendoza. Why be so bothered when others are just speaking the truth?¡± Ethan¡¯s tone was unapologetic. He suspected Brenna might have said something like that before, and his words were meant to defend her. He nced at Brenna, hoping she would understand his intentions. Darwin remained close to Brenna, stepping slightly in front of her and looking protective.


    His gesture only fueled Ethan¡¯s irritation.


    Icy disapproval settled in Ethan¡¯s gaze. He met Darwin¡¯s stare head-on, both of them locked in a silent standoff filled with animosity. Darwin did not flinch or even acknowledge Ethan¡¯s hostility, as if it carried no weight at all.


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    Ernst released his grip on Judy and went to stand next to Jayceon¡¯s wheelchair, his posture firm and unmistakably protective.


    Judy pointed an using finger at the two men and unleashed her anger with a shout. ¡°How could two grown men bully a woman like this? Have you no sense of decency?¡±


    Her voice rang out in the room as she shouted, ¡°Where are my bodyguards? Come here now!¡± Instantly, a swarm of men in ck suits burst through the doors. But these weren¡¯t only her own men. Bodyguards from Ethan, the Harpers, and the Russells quickly closed in on Judy¡¯s bodyguards.


    A quietugh escaped from Brenna while her grip on Tina¡¯s arm stayed unyielding. ¡°Things are getting exciting.¡±


    Pain contorted Tina¡¯s face, her whole body shaking as she struggled to withstand the grip. The ache traveled up her arm and spread until she could hardly stand straight, and tears ran freely down her cheeks.


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 Chapter 996

    ?Chapter 996:


    ¡°Jayceon, please, help me! Get her to let go; my arm hurts so badly! She¡¯s going to kill me¡­¡± Tina¡¯s dramatics only made Jayceon¡¯s patience grow thin.


    Jayceon knew Tina¡¯s personality well¡ªshe had a habit of making a fuss over nothing. But he also disliked Brenna. Still, Brenna was his good friend¡¯s sister, which left him in a difficult position. He scowled, choosing to stay silent and see how Brenna would handle the situation.


    Brenna caught sight of Jayceon¡¯s silence and figured he might not be as unreasonable as she had once believed.


    She fixed her eyes on Tina, her grip only growing stronger. ¡°Answer me, Tina. Did I ever call Ms. Mendoza fat or not?¡±


    Frustration burned in Tina¡¯s eyes, but she stayed still, unwilling to risk any more pain. ¡°Why does it matter? Tons of people have called Ms. Mendoza fat before. What¡¯s the harm in adding one more? Even if you said it, what could she do? You¡¯re the daughter of the Harper family. Are you really scared of her?¡±


    ¡°So you¡¯re still trying to stir up trouble,¡± Brenna said, sounding almost amused at Tina¡¯s insistence. Despite facing real pain, she still clung to her schemes. Judy¡¯s anger reached a boiling point. She couldn¡¯t unleash it on Jayceon, but Tina was an easy target. Even without her bodyguardsing to her rescue, she wasn¡¯t afraid of hurting Tina.


    Judy pped Tina across the face a second time, leaving her with a bright mark on each side of her cheek. ¡°So you were just lying earlier, weren¡¯t you? Seems you¡¯re in need of a lesson!¡±


    Brenna let go of Tina atst, and Tina wasted no time scrambling behind Jayceon¡¯s wheelchair.


    ¡°Jayceon, do something! Brenna is insane; no one can reason with her!¡± Tina cried, waving her arm for him to see. ¡°Look what she did! She almost broke my arm! You need to stand up for me!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve heard enough out of you. You¡¯ve made a scene already. Go home, and don¡¯t show your face at events like this again,¡± Jayceon said, his patience wearing thin. Tina¡¯s antics had pushed him to the edge.


    Tina sulked, massaging her sore arm as she threw a secret look toward Ethan. Her heart sank when he didn¡¯t even nce her way.


    Only after the chaos faded did Gracie make her way over. ¡°Alright, that¡¯s enough. Everybody, go back to what you were doing. No sense in lingering here.¡±


    Judy¡¯s eyes swept over her outnumbered bodyguards. She silently wished she had brought more muscle this time. Her gaze shifted to Brenna, whom she disliked.


    Many men were protecting Brenna, while she had only Denis, a useless man, on her side.


    The envy in Judy¡¯s eyes could not be missed. ¡°This isn¡¯t over,¡± she said to Brenna.


    Brenna showed no reaction. She acted as if Judy¡¯s threat held no more weight than the whining of a child. ¡°I expected better from you. After all this chaos, you still haven¡¯t realized that I never called you fat.¡±


    ¡°But you always look at me with such contempt! I know you judge me for my weight inwardly!¡± Judy blurted out, her frustration spilling over.


    A shortugh escaped Brenna. She realized that Judy was just absurdly unreasonable.


    ¡°So what if I do? You are fat, and that is just a fact.¡±


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 Chapter 997

    ?Chapter 997:


    Throwing Judy a look filled with scorn, Brenna walked away, taking Lilith along with her.


    Right then, Thiago arrived, weaving through the crowd toward Brenna. Ethan started to follow Brenna, wanting to clear things up with her, but the sound of his phone stopped him. He moved aside, forced to answer the call.


    ¡°Boss, I tried everything, but I couldn¡¯t stop him from going in. He¡¯s already made it upstairs. He¡¯s brought a whole crew with him!¡±


    After ending the call, Ethan looked over and saw Brenna deep in conversation with Gracie. The two of them talked with polite smiles, looking like friends. There was no hint of hostility between them.


    Ethan called, ¡°Gracie!¡± It wasn¡¯t that he feared Hector, but given his position, stepping in to defend Gracie might only worsen the situation. It could provoke Hector further, leading to even more severe mistreatment of Gracie in private. The faint worry in Ethan¡¯s eyes told Gracie everything she needed to know. She caught on right away. ¡°He¡¯s here, isn¡¯t he?¡±


    Brenna watched the exchange between them, an ufortable feeling creeping in. It almost seemed like Ethan and Gracie had their own private world, speaking to each other with a closeness that made her frown. She was standing right there, yet they acted as though she didn¡¯t exist.


    Feeling sick to her stomach by their actions, Brenna turned and walked away.


    Ethan rushed to catch up with her and took hold of her hand. ¡°Brenna, I need your help. The Wilson Group is in danger. Gracie and her father have been controlled by a dangerous mob boss. Gracie was even forced to marry the boss¡¯ son, Hector. Now, Hector¡¯s shown up. Can you help me keep Gracie safe?¡± His voice carried a sense of desperation, and his eyes pleaded for understanding. But Brenna¡¯s difort only grew stronger, and her stomach twisted. She jerked her hand free from Ethan¡¯s grasp.


    ¡°Why should I help you protect another man¡¯s wife? You want me to help Gracie get divorced so you can marry her yourself? Then what? Am I supposed to wish you both a happy life together? Have you ever stopped to think how messed up that sounds?¡±


    Ethan had never expected Brenna to respond that way. ¡°That¡¯s not what I¡¯m trying to say. I honestly can¡¯t keep her safe myself. Brenna, I¡¯m begging you¡ªplease, just help me this one time.¡±


    ¡°Sorry, but I am no saint,¡± Brenna replied with a chill in her tone before turning and walking away.


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    Disappointment washed over Gracie, and she stood frozen, uncertain about what to do next.


    Ethan looked back at her, and the only idea that came to him was to let Gracie flee.


    ¡°You¡¯ll be staying at my ce tonight,¡± he said. Before he and Gracie could reach the exit, the heavy doors of the banquet hall swung wide open.


    Hector marched in, surrounded by his bodyguards in ck suits.


    In his thirties and looking every bit the calcting man he was, Hector carried himself with a cold edge. The moment he saw Gracie, he pulled her into his arms and mped down on her shoulders.


    Ethan¡¯s eyes went cold as he shot a re full of hostility at Hector. ¡°Let go of her right now.¡±


    Sizing up Ethan, Hector smirked. ¡°So this is the reason Gracie ran all the way to Vand; she has the world¡¯s wealthiest man trying to shield her. Too bad for her, though. She¡¯s my wife, and what happens between us is none of your business.¡±


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 Chapter 998

    ?Chapter 998:


    Brenna hadn¡¯t realized that the Hector Ethan spoke of, the one married to Gracie, was Spencer¡¯s son. The sight of him genuinely took her off guard.


    She put on a cordial smile and stepped forward, greeting Hector.


    ¡°Miss Harper. What a pleasant surprise,¡± said Hector, offering her a warm handshake. ¡°Allow me to introduce my wife, Gracie.¡±


    Brenna shook his hand and replied, ¡°We¡¯ve already met. Funny enough, my ex-boyfriend broke up with me because of her. Life does have its little twists, doesn¡¯t it?¡±


    A sly grin appeared on Hector¡¯s face as he looked over at Ethan, whose expression had grown stormy. ¡°Truly, fate has a sense of humor. Who would¡¯ve guessed my wife¡¯s affair involved your ex-boyfriend? They should go to hell for this.¡±


    ¡°I never cheated on you!¡± Gracie eximed. She fought to pull away from Hector, trying again and again, but his hold only tightened. He didn¡¯t care if she was in pain, and no matter how hard she tried, she couldn¡¯t escape his grip.


    Ethan turned to Brenna with a harsh tone. ¡°How do you even know this man, Brenna? The two of you seem pretty close.¡±


    Suspicion crept into his mind; he wondered if Brenna might have sold Gracie out because of her resentment toward her.


    Brenna, annoyed by his words, snapped, ¡°Why should I tell you that?¡±


    Hector stepped in, saying, ¡°Miss Harper and I have known each other for years. We¡¯ve worked together on all kinds of projects back in Norview. She has always been an outstanding business partner.¡±


    Looking at Brenna, he added, ¡°I look forward to the next time we work together.¡±


    Ethan was caught off guard by how close Brenna seemed to Hector. Still, he pushed the thought aside. Right now, all that mattered was keeping Gracie out of Hector¡¯s hands. He couldn¡¯t just stand by and watch her be taken away by him.


    ¡°Let her go,¡± he said to Hector.


    At first, Hector burned with rage. However, after finding out about the messy history between Brenna¡¯s ex and Gracie, he found his temper cooling.


    To him, this situation had started to look more amusing than infuriating. He said, ¡°Mr. Mitchell, you¡¯re really asking me to just hand my wife over to you? Do you honestly believe I¡¯d do that?¡±


    He then turned to Brenna and said, ¡°Miss Harper, why don¡¯t we share a meal sometime? Right now, I have things to sort out with my wife. We¡¯ll be leaving.¡± Without another word, he left with Gracie, his arm still on her shoulder. His bodyguards quickly blocked Ethan¡¯s path, making it clear he was not wee to follow.


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    Brenna shot Ethan a look. ¡°So this is your thing now, chasing after a married woman? I never thought you could sink so low.¡±


    Ethan let out a sigh. ¡°Don¡¯t say that, Brenna. I get why you¡¯re upset, but you¡¯re mistaken. I don¡¯t have any romantic feelings for Gracie. She¡¯s caught in a terrible mess and needs help. You know the kind of man Hector is. He¡¯s violent, and if Gracie stays with him, she¡¯ll only face more abuse. I don¡¯t love her; I only love you. To me, she¡¯s just a friend in desperate need of help. She deserves a chance to get away from this nightmare and take back the Wilson Group. Please, Brenna, don¡¯t misunderstand my intentions.¡±


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 Chapter 999

    ?Chapter 999:


    Lilith could no longer contain herself and blurted out, ¡°Are you serious? What were you thinking? Why would a woman help her rival in love?¡±


    For the first time, Ethan found Lilith so annoying that he snapped back, ¡°What¡¯s your problem? Do you enjoy watching couples argue? Don¡¯t you know meddling in rtionships is thest thing people want? Why don¡¯t you just leave?¡±


    Fuming, Lilith jabbed a finger toward Ethan¡¯s face, retorting, ¡°You are hopeless! How could you pull something like this? You know Brenna dumped you because she hates that you¡¯re close to her, hates that you help her. But now, you expect Brenna to help her? Have you lost your mind?¡±


    Lilith grabbed Brenna¡¯s arm, pulling her away. ¡°Don¡¯t bother with him. He¡¯s out of his mind. How does someone like him even be the CEO of a majorpany like the Mitchell Group? I really can¡¯t wrap my head around it.¡±


    Brenna, equally exasperated, was about to unload her frustration on Lilith when Ethan caught up with them, blocking their path to the elevator.


    With Gracie whisked away, the banquet had ended abruptly, and a crowd now clogged the elevator in their rush to leave.


    ¡°Save your breath. I¡¯m not helping Gracie,¡± Brenna dered, pushing past Ethan as the elevator doors slid shut. She opted for the stairs with Lilith.


    At that moment, the Harpers appeared, Thiago trailing behind, all waiting for the elevator.


    Shepard¡¯s expression was dark as he red at Ethan with contempt. ¡°Listen, kid, stop bothering my daughter. Keep this up, and I¡¯ll teach you a lesson.¡±


    ¡°Mr. Harper, please, let me exin things to you. Gracie and I are just friends, nothing more,¡± Ethan said, trying to remain patient.


    Shepard dismissed him with a wave. ¡°Save it. That might fool a child, but not me.¡±


    Not wanting to deal with Ethan, Shepard and Giselle chose the stairs.


    Ernst, lingering a step behind, also couldn¡¯t make sense of Ethan¡¯s actions. ¡°Gracie is already married. Why are you doing this? I now think you and my sister aren¡¯t right for each other.¡±


    Thiago and Darwin headed down the stairs together. Thiago actually had a great impression of Darwin.


    Left with no choice, Ethan abandoned his plea for help and hurried downstairs to pursue Hector, only to find that Hector and his men had vanished without a trace. Even the Harpers¡¯ car was gone.


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    Neville, at Ethan¡¯s side, advised, ¡°Boss, let it go. We¡¯ve done what we could. We¡¯re not really going to chase Gracie and Hector to their ce and take his wife, are we?¡±


    Just then, Ethan¡¯s phone rang.


    Seeing the caller ID as the Mitchell Group¡¯s general manager in Norview, he answered the call.


    ¡°Boss, I¡¯ve dug up some information. Hector and his father run apany called ¡®As Commerce Group¡¯. They control Norview¡¯s biggest arms and loan-sharking operations, with some oil ventures on the side. Even the local authorities find them difficult to handle.¡±


    Ethan, puzzled, asked, ¡°Aren¡¯t those legitimate businesses? Why did Gracie say Hector¡¯s part of a mafia gang?¡±


    ¡°They are legitimate on the surface, but the As Commerce Group is also deep into drugs and other shady dealings in secret. Recently, Norview¡¯s top gang leader died unexpectedly, and the As Commerce Group capitalized on it to expand, with Hector ying a key role.¡±


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 Chapter 1000

    ?Chapter 1000:


    Ethan gave a low hum of acknowledgment. ¡°Does Hector have a vendetta against the Wilson Group? Why is he treating Gracie and her father like this?¡± From Gracie, Ethan had learned of Hector¡¯s greed and brutality¡ªseizing all of the Wilson Group¡¯s assets and mistreating both her and her father. Yet, Gracie had always dodged exining why.


    Ethan wasn¡¯t stupid; he had pressed her multiple times, but she had refused to answer that. Her evasions had led him to order an investigation in Norview. He continued, ¡°Gracie said Hector abused her and her father physically and took over the Wilson Group¡¯s assets and business. Did you find out why?¡±


    The general manager replied, ¡°I uncovered some motives, Boss. You won¡¯t believe this. Hector¡¯s aunt was in a rtionship with Gracie¡¯s father years ago. Hector¡¯s family was poor at that time, and to marry the President¡¯s daughter, Gracie¡¯s father brutally killed Hector¡¯s aunt. Hector¡¯s father almost died because of this, too. That¡¯s likely why Hector and his father are targeting the Wilson Group.¡±


    After a pause, he continued, ¡°Gracie¡¯s father isn¡¯t the saint the media paints him as; he is ruthless and has killed a lot of women. Hector¡¯s aunt was just one of them. What¡¯s more shocking is that Gracie¡¯s father runs a massive underground¡­¡±


    ¡°Operation trafficking human organs, and Gracie might know about it, or even beplicit. I¡¯ve sent you files with evidence of the Wilson Group¡¯s crimes to your email.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s fists tightened, veins pulsing. Gracie was involved in something so vile? ¡°Keep investigating!¡± he ordered.


    ¡°I also found out,¡± said the general manager on the other end, ¡°that Hector¡¯s aunt had her heart, kidneys, liver, and corneas removed by Gracie¡¯s father. Her body was sold to private institutions. Their methods of dealing with her body were shockingly brutal¡­¡±


    Ethan was stunned. Still reeling from what he had heard, he climbed into the car and told Neville to take him home.


    He returned to the neighborhood where Brenna lived and deliberately passed by her house, noticing that the light in her room was still on. He stared at it for a moment, then it hit him. He had made a terrible mistake by trusting Gracie without question.


    He pulled out his phone and sent a message to Brenna.


    ¡°Brenna, I was wrong. I¡¯m sending you some documents. Please take a look. I know I made a mistake.¡±


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    He forwarded the email he had received to Brenna, hoping she would read it. He tried calling Gracie again and again, but she did not pick up. A few triester, he found that her phone was turned off.


    He realized that Gracie was probably in a bad situation. Still, knowing that she and her father were bad people made it easier for him to feel less concerned about her.


    After going over every document in the email, Ethan finally understood everything.


    He couldn¡¯t sleep and waited for Brenna to reply to his message, but even by three in the morning, there was no response from her.


    Sunday came. Brenna didn¡¯t get out of bed until noon. She stretched, checked her phone, and saw the email. After washing up, she sat down to open it.


    Her face stayed nk. She had always known Hector and his father were decent men who yed fair in business. If Hector had acted against Gracie, there had to be a reason.


    Ethan had kept saying Gracie was innocent and that she was just a poor girl caught in the middle. Brenna hadn¡¯t bothered to argue with him. If he wanted to stand by Gracie and treat her kindly, he could do so. She had already chosen to end things with him.


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 Chapter 1001

    ?Chapter 1001:


    When she finished reading the email, a coldugh slipped out. She shut the page and looked at Ethan¡¯s message. She didn¡¯t change her mind. Even though Ethan realized his mistake, she wouldn¡¯t forgive him easily.


    She forwarded the email to Ellie and sent her a quick message.


    ¡°Ethan says he knows he was wrong. Do you think I should forgive him?¡±


    Not long after, Ellie replied, ¡°Ignore him for a while. Thiago said once your office building is finished, he¡¯d save me a whole floor to open a studio. I turned him down.¡±


    Brenna asked, ¡°Why did you refuse?¡±


    Ellie responded, ¡°I¡¯m into fashion design. I want to open a shop on a busy pedestrian street. Not in an office building.¡±


    ¡°Makes sense. Just do what you want.¡±


    ¡°Patrick¡¯s craving seafood. Want to join us for a meal?¡±


    ¡°Sounds great!¡± Brenna replied.


    Ellie then dropped a location pin. Brenna touched up her makeup, grabbed her bag, and headed out the door.


    The seafood ce wasn¡¯t too crowded at lunch. When Brenna arrived, Ellie had just taken a seat and was already scanning the menu with a waiter standing nearby.


    After taking her seat, Brenna nced around the restaurant out of habit. Unexpectedly, she saw Gracie and Elsa, seated by the window near the entrance.


    ¡°What are they doing together?¡± she muttered, taken aback. Her thoughts moved fast. Elsa had always poked around in her rtionship with Ethan and constantly tried to match him with other women. Maybe now, she was trying to make Gracie and Ethan be together.


    Elsa had her back to Brenna and didn¡¯t see her.


    Gracie spotted Brenna right away but acted like she didn¡¯t. Her mood was already foul. Hector had hit her again the day before, and she was still in pain. She figured Brenna must be mocking her silently. Thest thing she wanted was to give Brenna the chance to humiliate her.


    Eager to make Brenna think she was doing well, she began treating Elsa with enthusiasm,ughing and talking with her.


    Brenna didn¡¯t know what they were talking about and didn¡¯t care to find out, but she guessed it wasn¡¯t anything good.


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    Once Ellie finished ordering, she noticed Brenna staring toward the entrance. She followed her gaze and asked, ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±


    ¡°That young girl is Gracie. And the woman with her is Ethan¡¯s mother,¡± Brenna said.


    Ellie didn¡¯t need more details to understand the situation.


    Her brows drew together in irritation. ¡°Is Ethan¡¯s mother even thinking straight? Even if she¡¯s looking for a daughter-inw, she can¡¯t pick someone who¡¯s already married. She is out of her mind!¡±


    After a pause, she continued, ¡°Good thing you¡¯ve already broken up with Ethan. If you hadn¡¯t, you¡¯d be stuck with a mother-inw like that for life. Just the thought gives me a headache. Honestly, I think it¡¯s okay for you to forgive Ethan, but you shouldn¡¯t get back together with him. I think Darwin, the guy you mentioned before, is good for you. Thiago has a good impression of him, too.¡±


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 Chapter 1002

    ?Chapter 1002:


    Brenna chuckled. ¡°I¡¯m not getting back with Ethan. My parents would never agree to it. Last night, they went on and on about him. They said they couldn¡¯t find a single good thing in him and that he was useless except for his money. But we¡¯ve got our own wealth. I don¡¯t need his money.¡±


    Patrick, swinging his legs on the chair, asked Brenna, ¡°Brenna, did you change boyfriends again?¡±


    Brenna said, ¡°Kids shouldn¡¯t be asking about grown-up stuff.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not a kid anymore!¡± Patrick retorted. ¡°I¡¯m almost six years old. In six months, I¡¯ll be in first grade.¡±


    ¡°Everything here tastes wonderful,¡± Elsa remarked, her mood soaring. Seeing her son finally end things with Brenna had left her feeling happy. Now, she could introduce him to new, more suitable women.


    She believed Gracie, who was sitting across from her now, was a good match for her son. After researching Gracie¡¯s background online, she found that not only did she have an impressive education, but she had also served as the Vice President of the Wilson Group and was now the CEO of its Vand division. Her looks were outstanding, and her management skills were top-notch. Elsa believed she was much better than Brenna, who had grown up with the Barrett family.


    Simr thoughts fluttered through Gracie¡¯s mind. Escaping Hector¡¯s grip, reiming control of the Wilson Group, and possibly marrying Ethan¡ªthese were her goals. With Ethan by her side, no one would dare push her around again.


    So, when Elsa had invited her to a meal, she had agreed without hesitation and even bought Elsa a new designer handbag as a gift.


    She had no concerns about Hector making an appearance here. He was tied up right now, locked in a meeting with the Wilson Group¡¯s executives that wouldn¡¯t wrap up untilter in the evening.


    She had long let go of the idea of reiming the Wilson Group by herself. What she needed now was Ethan¡¯s help, and Elsa was the key to getting closer to Ethan.


    Earlier that morning, once Hector had left for his meeting, Gracie had called Ethan, wanting to see him. He¡¯d turned her down, citing a major project that needed his full attention.


    Unfazed, she had adjusted her strategy. Winning over Elsa would be her first step.


    ¡°I agree; the food here is fantastic,¡± Gracie responded, her tone warm.


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    As the meal went on, Elsa continued to guide her through the seafood dishes, sharing tips and family stories along the way. As they finished their meal and were about to leave, Elsa finally noticed Brenna sitting nearby.


    ¡°Gracie, I¡¯ve just spotted my son¡¯s ex. Would you like to go say hello with me?¡± Elsa said. Despite her words, she just wanted to unt Gracie and mock Brenna. But Gracie¡¯s stomach twisted at the thought. Afterst night¡¯s humiliation, and knowing that even Brenna was aware of her secret marriage, she couldn¡¯t risk Elsa talking to Brenna. She didn¡¯t want Brenna to tell Elsa that she was already married.


    ¡°Maybe we should skip that. Ethan and Miss Harper broke up because of me. She probably holds a grudge against me, so I¡¯d rather not talk to her,¡± said Gracie, forcing a polite smile as she found an excuse.


    ¡°Oh, don¡¯t worry about it. You¡¯re young¡ªrtionshipse and go. Breakups are part of life,¡± responded Elsa, waving off Gracie¡¯s hesitation before gently tugging her forward, clearly set on talking to Brenna with Gracie.


    Elsa wasted no time, speaking in a voice that rose above the gentle restaurant hum. ¡°Well, isn¡¯t this a surprise! Miss Harper, fancy seeing you here.¡±


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 Chapter 1003

    ?Chapter 1003:


    Unbothered, Brenna looked up just long enough to offer a faint smile. ¡°Yes, quite the coincidence. Tell me, Mrs. Mitchell, are you looking for another match for your son?¡±


    Ellie kept a cold expression, uninterested in conversing with Elsa. She kept her focus fixed on the crab in front of her, peeling each piece for her son with practiced care.


    Elsa didn¡¯t admit to anything. She wasn¡¯t foolish enough to give her son any ammunition against her, unsure if Brenna might tell him everything.


    A sigh, heavy with feigned regret, escaped Elsa. ¡°It¡¯s such a pity you and my son didn¡¯t work out. Honestly, finding a man of his caliber was not easy for you. You might never find someone as exceptional again. You¡¯re probably going to end up with someone far less remarkable. I know quite a few officers in the military; would you like me to introduce you to some? I¡¯d be happy to make an introduction; just say the word.¡±


    In her mind, she thought of those middle-aged bachelors, unmarried or long widowed, with ugly features that women wouldn¡¯t even want to nce at. She truly believed Brenna was suited for them.


    ¡°So? Want me to set you up?¡± Elsa asked, feigning concern.


    A wave of irritation washed over Brenna. She met Elsa¡¯s gaze with an icy stare and answered, ¡°No thanks. I¡¯m already in a rtionship.¡±


    A dismissiveugh bubbled out of Elsa. ¡°Come on now, who do you think you¡¯re fooling? Someone like you, raised by the Barrett family and never given a proper education¡­ Who would even look at you twice? Are you lying just to make yourself feel better, or is this some story you cooked up to save face after getting dumped by my son? I know plenty of unmarried older men. Let me introduce you to a few.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s patience snapped. She seized her c and flung it straight at Elsa¡¯s face. ¡°Enough! Leave me alone!¡±


    ¡°How dare you do this to me?¡± asked Elsa, wide-eyed and stunned, struggling to grasp what had just happened.


    Regret didn¡¯t cross Brenna¡¯s face for a second. ¡°Back when I dated your son, I tolerated you for his sake. But that is over. I am no longer in a rtionship with your son, so why would I endure your insults?¡±


    She pointed at Gracie. ¡°You want her to be your future daughter-inw, right? Too bad. She¡¯s already married.¡±


    Elsa froze, forgetting all about revenge as she turned to Gracie in disbelief. ¡°You¡¯re married?¡±


    ??????????? ??????????????? ¨À??????¦Í??????©q?????


    A handful of napkins were already clutched in Gracie¡¯s hand, her first instinct to dab at the stain on Elsa¡¯s dress. As soon as Elsa turned her questioning gaze on her, though, Gracie hesitated and withdrew her hand, awkwardness flooding her face. Inwardly, she med Brenna for telling Elsa that she was married.


    In a low voice, she said, ¡°I¡¯m nning to divorce my husband¡­¡± Some part of her had guessed the real reason behind Elsa¡¯s meal invitation. But every effort to win Elsa¡¯s approval seemed in vain now, especially when Elsa¡¯s look made it clear she didn¡¯t like her anymore. Gracie was afraid Elsa would give up on the idea of making her Ethan¡¯s future wife.


    Determination quickly reced her panic. ¡°I will be filing for divorce very soon,¡± she added.


    She tried again to help, dabbing Elsa¡¯s sleeve and cheek with the napkin.


    .


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    .

 Chapter 1004

    ?Chapter 1004:


    Snatching the napkin away, Elsa scoffed, wiping herself. ¡°Don¡¯t bother; I¡¯ll handle it. Had I known you were already married, I never would have invited you to a meal in the first ce.¡±


    A married woman wasn¡¯t suitable for her son, no matter how rich she was. Embarrassment painted Gracie¡¯s cheeks red. She shot Brenna a seething look before making her exit.


    Only then did Elsa fix her icy attention on Brenna, clearly ready to vent her anger. ¡°No wonder my son broke things off with you. Just look at yourself¡ªno manners, no self-control, and bold enough to offend your elders. Do you even know how much my outfit costs?¡±


    Brenna didn¡¯t so much as flinch. ¡°Your designer dress means nothing to me. Back when I dated your son, I put up with your attitude because you were his mother. Now, I¡¯ve broken up with your son; I don¡¯t owe you a thing. You still treat me like dirt. Why should I tolerate it?¡±


    She stared Elsa down, unwavering. ¡°The next time you cross my path, I suggest you watch your behavior, or you¡¯ll regret it. Today, I¡¯ll let this go since you are my ex-boyfriend¡¯s mother. You should leave.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s chest rose and fell with fury, her breath growing shallow and her temples pulsing. No words woulde; anger had left her speechless.


    Sensing Elsa¡¯s distress, Brenna arched a brow, her tone icy. ¡°You¡¯re not about to fake falling sick again, are you? Your son mentioned you use that trick a lot. Guess it¡¯s your go-to move.¡±


    The restaurant manager chose that moment to step in, having watched the tension escte. Turning to Brenna, he said, ¡°Miss, thisdy doesn¡¯t seem well. Maybe you should stop provoking her. If something happens, you¡¯ll have to apany her to the hospital and pay for her checkup.¡±


    A moment¡¯s thought was all it took for Brenna to realize she didn¡¯t want further drama. It wasn¡¯t about money; she simply didn¡¯t want to be tangled up with Elsa or Ethan anymore. With a nod, she fell silent.


    The manager advised Elsa, ¡°Your clothes got dirty; you can just let this youngdy take them to the dry cleaners. You don¡¯t have to be this angry. It will only affect your health.¡±


    Elsa felt the manager was clearly siding with Brenna, which made her even more furious.


    Raising her voice, Elsa snapped, ¡°What if I refuse to settle this quietly? This coat cost me twenty grand, and the scarf she ruined was nearly thirty! She owes me for both. She sshed juice on my face and embarrassed me in front of everyone. I want one hundred million inpensation for emotional distress!¡±


    ?????????? §ã?????????????? ????????????????[©q]?????


    ¡°Is Ethan¡¯s business really in such bad shape that you need to ckmail me for money now? Well, you¡¯re not getting a cent from me. If you¡¯ve got a problem with that, go ahead and call the police.¡± Standing her ground, Brenna knew Elsa wouldn¡¯t let the matter slide even if she paid her.


    Elsa¡¯s nostrils red. ¡°You said it. I am calling the police right now!¡± Grabbing her phone, she dialed the police in a fit of indignation.


    Unbothered, Brenna ignored her and returned her focus to her meal with Ellie and Patrick.


    A curious look passed over Patrick¡¯s face. ¡°Brenna, what if the police actually show up? What will you do?¡±


    .


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    .

 Chapter 1005

    ?Chapter 1005:


    ¡°So what if the policee here? I only sshed her with a ss of orange juice. I didn¡¯t hit her. What can she do, put me in jail?¡± Brenna said.


    Ellie smiled and gave her son a gentle nudge. ¡°Patrick, don¡¯t you know who Brenna is? She is the daughter of the powerful Harper family. They will help her. Nothing bad will happen to her.¡±


    Patrick grinned. ¡°I believe you won¡¯t go to jail for this, Brenna. Still, people like this woman need to be put in their ce, or they¡¯ll never stop making trouble.¡±


    Augh slipped out of Brenna. ¡°How did you get so clever? I¡¯m lucky to have powerful friends. Just watch¡ªI¡¯ll make a call, and this will all be over.¡±


    Patrick gave her¡­


    With an enthusiastic thumbs-up, Patrick said, ¡°That¡¯s what I¡¯m talking about!¡± Wasting no time, Brenna dialed Darwin, exining the entire matter right in front of Elsa.


    Elsa stopped wiping the stains off her clothes and face, nning to let the police see how badly she was treated. She also called Ethan. ¡°Ethan, someone sshed orange juice all over me and humiliated me in public. Hurry over and help me now, or she¡¯ll walk all over me!¡±


    At that very moment, Ethan was deep in talks with three vice presidents about acquiring shares of the Wilson Group in Norview. After answering Elsa¡¯s call and listening to her words, he frowned. ¡°Mom, let my brother handle it. I¡¯m in the middle of something important.¡±


    Vand¡¯s police prided themselves on their swift response, yet ten minutes had passed without a single officer arriving. Brenna had already finished her meal.


    Without hesitation, she paid the bill and stepped outside with Ellie and Patrick. Before they could get far, Elsa appeared in front of them, arms crossed and attitude zing. ¡°You¡¯re not going anywhere. The police will be here soon, and they won¡¯t let you off so easily.¡±


    Brenna met her re with bored disdain. ¡°You know where I live, don¡¯t you? I have more important matters than standing here waiting. If the police really want to speak to me, they cane to my home. And even if you don¡¯t know the address, your son does¡ªhe¡¯s been there plenty of times.¡± She brushed past Elsa and left.


    Elsa, seething, reached out to grab her, but Brenna peeled her fingers away and gave her a sharp shove.


    ¡°You can¡¯t just let her leave like that! Do you hear me?¡± Elsa snapped at the nearest waiter. ¡°My son Ethan is Shirie¡¯s richest man. He¡¯s globally famous for his wealth. Disobey me, and you¡¯ll regret it. No one defies me in this city.¡±


    ???????????? §ã???¦Ñ???????? ????????????????????????


    The waiter remained unmoved. Elsa, unused to being ignored, shoved him again. He frowned and said, ¡°She paid her bill. That means she¡¯s free to go. I have no reason to stop her.¡±


    Elsa could only watch as Brenna climbed into her car and drove off. She stood there awkwardly for another ten minutes, hoping the police would finally arrive¡ªbut no one came. Furious, she pulled out her phone and called the station again.


    ¡°This is not a criminal matter,¡± the officer on the line said. ¡°Your situation doesn¡¯t warrant police intervention. If you continue to harass us, we may have to consider charges against you.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s face flushed red with rage. ¡°Do you even know who I am? I¡¯m famous, and my son is the richest man in the world! I¡¯ve been assaulted and humiliated! Why are you doing nothing? I¡¯m filing aint. You¡¯ll be out of a job soon¡ªjust wait!¡±


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 Chapter 1006

    ?Chapter 1006:


    The call ended abruptly, leaving Elsa fuming. She cursed at the phone for a while before finally calling Ethan.


    She had always believed that Ethan had broken up with Brenna because he was interested in Gracie, thinking it was his decision to end things. So, she didn¡¯t hesitate to badmouth Brenna to Ethan.


    ¡°Ethan, are you really going to stand by while your mother¡¯s being bullied?¡± she said. ¡°Brenna drenched me in orange juice! My designer clothes, ruined. My scarf, soaked! If you don¡¯t do something now, she¡¯ll do something worse next time. You have to deal with her for me!¡±


    Ethan clenched his jaw as his mother¡¯s voice rang in his ears, herints pushing him past the edge. While he was racking his brain for ways to patch things up with Brenna, Elsa was out there making things worse by the minute. How could he not be furious?


    ¡°Mom, I know Brenna wouldn¡¯t have done that without a reason. Did you say something to set her off?¡± He knew Elsa too well. She was stubborn and unreasonable. It¡¯d be a relief if she didn¡¯t pick on people. How could she be bullied by anyone? ¡°I¡¯ve got a lot going on right now. If you can¡¯t handle the matter yourself, ask Dad for help.¡±


    Ethan hung up, feeling uneasy, worried that Brenna might misunderstand him even more because of this incident.


    After mulling it over for a bit, he called Brenna.


    But Brenna refused to answer his call.


    Left with no choice, he could only send her a message.


    ¡°Brenna, don¡¯t let my mother¡¯s behavior get to you. Whatever she said doesn¡¯t reflect how I feel. Please don¡¯t take any of her words to heart. I¡¯m sorry if she was rude to you. I¡¯ll visit you at home tonight and talk to you about this in person.¡±


    He hit send and waited, but Brenna didn¡¯t respond.


    His anxiety deepened. Maybe Elsa had gone too far.


    Trying to piece together what had happened, Ethan called Elsa. ¡°What exactly did you say to Brenna?¡± he asked sharply.


    Elsa was still angry with him. ¡°Nothing much. I just suggested introducing her to a few men for matchmaking, and then, she threw orange juice at me. I meant well, but she was so rude to me. Ethan, no wonder you broke up with her. She¡¯s so ill-mannered, not worthy of you.¡±


    Ethan was exasperated. He knew his mother; he believed she must have said something far worse. Otherwise, with Brenna¡¯s calm and reserved nature, she wouldn¡¯t have reacted like that.


    ??¦Á???????? §ã????¦Ñ???????? ??¦Á??????¦Í??????©q?????


    He had been trying to reconcile with Brenna for days, but she had been ignoring him, which frustrated him. Now, his mother was only making things worse for him.


    ¡°Why would you even think of introducing her to other men?¡± he asked, his voice rising in anger.


    ¡°I was doing it for her own good,¡± Elsa replied quickly, clearly trying to sound innocent. In reality, her goal had nothing to do with kindness. She had simply wanted to put Brenna in her ce, to humiliate her by telling her she was only worthy of being with old, unattractive men.


    ¡°For her own good? You never even liked her. Don¡¯t pretend you¡¯re suddenly being kind to her. Mom, my rtionship with Brenna is my own business. Stay out of it, okay? I¡¯m begging you.¡± Ethan had often argued with Elsa since childhood and knew how cutting and venomous her words could be.


    .


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 Chapter 1007

    ?Chapter 1007:


    Elsa snorted and said, ¡°She poured orange juice on me. You¡¯re really going to let her get away with treating me like that?¡±


    Ethan ended the call with a deep sigh, frustration mounting inside him.


    He kept his gaze locked on the phone, lost in thought until the screen darkened. Just then, a sudden vibration startled him. Instantly, he unlocked his phone and saw Brenna¡¯s message.


    Despite everything, he felt a sense of relief; at least Brenna wasn¡¯t ignoring him anymore. Brenna had sent over a file.


    Driven by curiosity, Ethan tapped it open. The file turned out to be an audio clip. The moment he yed it, Elsa¡¯s voice came through, and anger flooded Ethan¡¯s face.


    Now, he understood why Brenna had hurled her drink at Elsa.


    Still, he was unhappy that what Brenna had said to Elsa showed no regard for his feelings.


    The whole ordeal felt like a tangled web. Ethan had once believed that a genuine apology and some effort might mend things between Brenna and him. But now, with Elsa stirring the pot, that small glimmer of hope faded away.


    However, he knew the situation with Gracie was more urgent. Hector had already started seizing the Wilson Group¡¯s assets in Vand. If he didn¡¯t act soon, Gracie would lose everything.


    He couldn¡¯t spare the time to exin things to Brenna now.


    He intended to wrap up his tasks in the afternoon so he could go see Brenna and make amends soon.


    But before two o¡¯clock in the afternoon, Elsa barged into his office.


    She arrived fuming, her face sticky with orange juice, makeup smeared, and her wool coat streaked with stains.


    ¡°Ethan! I was bullied, and you¡¯re still here working?¡± Her voice was brimming with outrage.


    Left with little choice, Ethan asked the three vice presidents in the room to step outside so he could talk to Elsa in private.


    ¡°Mom, take a seat,¡± he said. Honestly, seeing Elsa in such a state didn¡¯t make him mad at Brenna. He had heard the voice recording; Elsa had instigated the conflict, and she had met with Gracie behind his back.


    ???????????? §ã?¦Á?????????? ??????????¦Í?????????????


    He realized the situation was far moreplicated than it appeared.


    Elsa eximed in anger, ¡°I¡¯m not sitting down! Are you going to confront Brenna for me or not? She humiliated me today. If you refuse to go, I¡¯ll get your father and brother to go with me.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not going,¡± Ethan responded, setting the phone on the table to y the audio clip for her.


    Elsa said, ¡°She actually recorded me? How cunning! No matter what, she shouldn¡¯t have thrown juice at me. I¡¯m asking you again, are you going to confront her or not?¡±


    Her son¡¯sck of reaction drove her further into anger. ¡°I ended up covered in juice, and you are not even mad at her for this? I am your mother! Your mother was mistreated, and you are not even going to do anything about it! What¡¯s the point of having you as my son anyway?¡±


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1008

    ?Chapter 1008:


    ¡°I¡¯m not going,¡± Ethan said, equally furious. Even with the evidence right in front of her, Elsa felt no remorse. She continued to see herself as the wronged party. Originally, he had thought about having ni bring Elsa some fresh clothes and helping her clean up. But after hearing those words from Elsa, he changed his mind about helping her.


    ¡°Fine. I¡¯ll get your dad and brother to go with me.¡± Elsa shot him a re and pulled out her phone to make the call right in front of Ethan.


    On the line, Emmett¡¯s anger was clear. He promised toe over as soon as possible. Kenny, on the other hand, was unreachable, probably piloting a ne at that moment.


    Elsa stormed out and mmed the door, leaving Ethan feeling a bit worried. He knew the Harpers would protect Brenna, and none of them were pushovers. But he feared Elsa¡¯s outburst might destroy any hope of him getting back together with Brenna.


    Thinking quickly, he decided to forward the audio Brenna had sent him to Emmett. A few minutester, after giving Emmett time to listen, Ethan called him.


    Though Emmett was domineering, Ethan believed that he was always reasonable.


    ¡°Dad, please don¡¯t go. Mom is not being reasonable,¡± Ethan said.


    Emmett let out a heavy sigh. ¡°Ethan, your mother has been having a rough timetely. She just thinks she¡¯s doing what¡¯s best for you. You ought to try to understand her instead of arguing with her.¡±


    Ethan could tell his father was siding with Elsa. ¡°Dad, do you actually believe Brenna is in the wrong this time?¡±


    ¡°Younger folks shouldn¡¯t treat elders like this,¡± Emmett replied firmly.


    Ethan heard the sound of a car door shutting on Emmett¡¯s end. ¡°Are you going to confront Brenna with Mom?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± Emmett replied before ending the call.


    Acting fast, Ethan threw on his coat and hurried out the door.


    By the time he reached Brenna¡¯s ce, his father¡¯s car was already there. It was the weekend, and Giselle was at home. Shepard and Ernst were out for social engagements, and Brenna wasn¡¯t back yet.


    Alone, Giselle faced Emmett and Elsa without flinching, calmly calling her family.


    Ethan rushed inside and went straight to Giselle. ¡°Mrs. Harper, I¡¯m truly sorry that I couldn¡¯t prevent this. Brenna isn¡¯t to me for any of this. Please don¡¯t let the matter trouble you. I¡¯ll take my parents out of here right away.¡±


    ???????????? §ã???¦Ñ???????? ??¦Á??????¦Í??????©q?????


    At that, Emmett¡¯s face darkened. ¡°What do you think you¡¯re doing? Your mother was humiliated, and you are apologizing? Do you actually believe the Harper couple will still want you as their future son-inw after all this?¡±


    Ethan had shown up with a crowd of bodyguards, about thirty people, lining the courtyard like a small army. At his signal, they were prepared to take Emmett away, regardless of his status.


    Already, two bodyguards had stepped inside. One gripped Emmett¡¯s arm while the other held Elsa, both menacing and expressionless.


    ¡°Take them out,¡± Ethanmanded, not sparing a thought for his father¡¯s pride or his mother¡¯s feelings. He had reached his limit. His parents had crossed a line and threatened everything he was fighting for.


    Letting them continue would mean giving up any hope of patching things up with Brenna.


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1009

    ?Chapter 1009:


    Fury lit up Emmett¡¯s face. He jabbed a finger at his son and shouted, ¡°Don¡¯t you dare do this to me!¡±


    Ethan offered no reply, his expression cold and unyielding. The bodyguards got the message and started hauling Emmett away.


    Elsa raised her voice, eximing, ¡°What are you so afraid of? Ethan, I never thought¡ª¡±


    Disappointment colored every word; she was shocked to see her son take someone else¡¯s side over hers.


    A single nod from Ethan was all it took. The bodyguard swiftly covered Elsa¡¯s mouth and dragged her out.


    Emmett tried to argue, convinced Ethan had lost his mind by siding with Brenna. But before he could get a word in, the bodyguard dragging him out mped a hand over his mouth, too.


    Once the bodyguards had hustled his parents into the car and driven them away, Ethan finally let himself rx. He turned to Giselle and said apologetically, ¡°Mrs. Harper, I¡¯m truly sorry for all the trouble my parents caused you.¡±


    Though still visibly upset, Giselle couldn¡¯t ignore the fact that Ethan had refused to take his parents¡¯ side today. That alone softened her irritation, if only slightly.


    ¡°I always believed your mother was the unreasonable one, but after today, I realize that your father has shown he¡¯s just as bad. Ethan, I don¡¯t think you and Brenna are meant to be together. With parents like yours, it¡¯s clear they will never let you marry Brenna. I think it¡¯s best if you and Brenna cut off all ties with each other.¡± Giselle kept her words blunt and her tone chilly, showing no intention of going easy on him.


    Ethan refused to give up. ¡°Mrs. Harper, I promise I¡¯ll take care of this. You have my word. If Brenna bes my wife, I¡¯ll make sure my parents respect our marriage. Just give me time; I¡¯ll show you I really mean what I say.¡±


    Giselle wanted nothing more than for him to leave, so she waved him away. ¡°Just go.¡±


    After Ethan walked out, Giselle sank onto the sofa, still fuming. When Shepard and Ernst returned together, they were surprised to find that nothing seemed out of the ordinary at home.


    Shepard sounded annoyed as he spoke. ¡°You called us home so urgently. Do you realize we were in the middle of a major negotiation with Hector? It was rude to just leave him like that.¡±


    Ernst noticed right away that something was wrong. ¡°Mom, what happened?¡± Giselle told them everything that had urred, finishing her ount just as Brenna came back. Julia hurried over and filled Brenna in on the details.


    L?????????? §ã????????????? ??¦Á?n??¦Í??????£®?????


    Brenna let out a coldugh. ¡°This is almost funny. Elsa insulted me first, and I didn¡¯t just stand there and take it. I tossed a ss of juice to get back at her. And now, she has the nerve to show up here and cause a scene? She called the police on me back then, but Darwin¡¯s father shut it down, so nothing came of it. Now, she still thinks she¡¯s the victim in this matter. It¡¯s absurd.¡±


    Giselle understood her daughter¡¯s temperament well. Normally, Brenna would shrug off little provocations. Elsa had started plenty of trouble before, and Brenna had always let it go for Ethan¡¯s sake. Why had Brenna fought back this time?


    Curious, Giselle asked, ¡°What did she say to you?¡±


    Still fuming, Brenna said, ¡°She told me nobody would want me after breaking up with her son and then offered to set me up with a boyfriend. She even went as far as listing older single men she could introduce me to. She was obviously trying to humiliate me. Did she really expect me to just ignore that? I put up with her before only because she was Ethan¡¯s mother. Now that things are over between Ethan and me, why should I keep tolerating her antics? That¡¯s why I ended up throwing the juice right at her!¡±


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 Chapter 1010

    ?Chapter 1010:


    ¡°You did the right thing!¡± Giselle spoke up, her tone sharp. ¡°She had iting! Someone her age ought to know better than to say things like that. Teaching her a lesson is only right, or she¡¯ll keep acting like she owns the ce. We have to remind her that the world doesn¡¯t revolve around her or her family. Even if her son is the richest man alive, that doesn¡¯t mean her family gets to treat people poorly or forget how to be decent. Our family is not easy to mess with!¡±


    Shepard scoffed. ¡°They¡¯re full of themselves. Just because they¡¯ve got a little more money, they think it¡¯s fine¡­¡±


    ¡°To hell with everyone else. Brenna, your mother has been right all along about Ethan. You should keep your distance from him; no matter what he says, you can¡¯t forgive him.¡±


    Even Ernst, who usually defended Ethan, sided with them. He said to Brenna, ¡°You and Ethan just aren¡¯t right for each other.¡±


    At Ethan¡¯s residence, bodyguards ushered Emmett and Elsa inside, standing watch at the door. Without Ethan¡¯s consent, they would not allow Emmett and Elsa to leave.


    Elsa seethed at her son. ¡°You went and bought a house here just for Brenna? You are really willing to do anything for her!¡±


    Emmett, however, wasn¡¯t as angry as Elsa. His frustration came from a different source.


    ¡°Ethan, Brenna had the nerve to douse your mother with orange juice and hurl insults at her. That¡¯s out of line. Her attitude is all wrong; she has no respect for your mother. She needs to be put in her ce. Why did you stop me earlier?¡±


    Ethan, now calm, responded, ¡°Brenna and I are done. She is no longer my girlfriend and doesn¡¯t need to tolerate my mom¡¯s antics. Stop acting like the world revolves around you, like everyone¡¯s obligated to obey you.¡±


    Emmett bristled, raising his voice. ¡°Isn¡¯t your mother older than her? Doesn¡¯t that make her an elder to Brenna? Brenna should show your mother some respect!¡±


    ¡°Age doesn¡¯t justify insults,¡± Ethan replied, his tone firm. ¡°You heard what my mom said to Brenna. She told her she would never find another man after leaving me and even offered to set her up with old creeps. Who wouldn¡¯t be angry hearing that? Honestly, I think my mom had iting.¡±


    Ethan spoke inly, never one to mince words. He had shed with his mother multiple times since childhood, so bluntness came naturally to him.


    Elsa spun around, jabbing a finger at him. ¡°Listen to yourself! You¡¯ve already broken up with Brenna, yet you¡¯re still taking her side? This is outrageous!¡±


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    Ethan thought his parents were two peas in a pod, both utterly unreasonable.


    ¡°You nearly wrecked my brother¡¯s marriage, and now, you¡¯re poking into my life. Don¡¯t you see you¡¯re just stirring up trouble for others? My brother and I are both adults. We can handle our own lives; you shouldn¡¯t interfere in our business again.¡±


    Emmett¡¯s eyes widened as he red at Ethan. ¡°How dare you say that?¡±


    Ethan met his stare, unfazed. ¡°Did I say anything wrong? Let me tell you something you don¡¯t know:¡±


    Elsa and Emmett stared at Ethan, their minds racing, unable to think of anything they weren¡¯t aware of.


    ¡°What is it?¡± Elsa gripped Ethan¡¯s arm; she had a bad feeling about this.


    ¡°Kenny and Rosanna are married. They¡¯ve already registered their marriage,¡± Ethan dropped the news calmly, hoping to shift their focus to Kenny and away from Brenna.


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 Chapter 1011

    ?Chapter 1011:


    Elsa gasped. ¡°No way! I¡¯ve got his documents. How could they register their marriage without them?¡±


    Emmett eximed, ¡°That brat!¡±


    The scandal at Kenny and Minna¡¯s engagement had left Emmett mortified in front of his colleagues and even cost him a promotion, leading him to apply for early retirement. Just the thought of that still made him furious.


    ¡°I don¡¯t agree with Kenny and Rosanna being together!¡± he eximed. He grabbed his phone to call Kenny, but the line wouldn¡¯t connect, leaving him fuming.


    Ethan had sessfully diverted their anger, but he knew it was only a temporary fix. If he wanted a future with Brenna, there was still a long road ahead.


    Emmett, however, circled back. ¡°Don¡¯t dodge the issue. Your mother and I are talking about Brenna. She owes your mother an apology.¡±


    ¡°Brenna doesn¡¯t owe her anything,¡± Ethan shot back without hesitation. ¡°My mom insulted her first. If anyone¡¯s apologizing, it should be my mom. Let me be clear, if you go after Brenna again, I¡¯ll cut ties with you.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s nonsense! You¡¯re my son, and nothing will change that!¡± Elsa snapped. Her head throbbed with frustration; she was overwhelmed by the chaos and her defiant sons.


    The thought of Gracie¡¯s marriage only intensified her exasperation. Nothing was going in the direction she wanted.


    ¡°I have things to do, so I¡¯ll leave now. I¡¯ll have the bodyguards take you hometer,¡± Ethan said before exiting the house.


    Emmett scoffed, ¡°Take us home? More like forcing us home!¡± Ethan ignored him, mmed his car door, and sped off.


    Having such unreasonable parents felt like his personal curse.


    On Monday, Brenna arrived at work promptly. At thepany entrance, she encountered Alec again. She chose to ignore him, walking past him into the elevator.


    ¡°Wait for me!¡± Ethan, also arriving, rushed to catch the same elevator with her. It was rush hour, and the elevator was packed. People noticed Ethan shing a smile at Brenna, but she didn¡¯t even acknowledge him. An employee mumbled, ¡°It¡¯s too crowded. I¡¯ll take the next one.¡±


    He quickly stepped out, followed by the others, until only Ethan and Brenna remained inside.


    Inside the elevator, Brenna messaged Ellie, venting about the awkward situation. She had no intention of speaking to Ethan and silently wished the elevator would hurry up and reach the fifty-eighth floor. Each passing second felt painfully slow.


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    She wished she¡¯d slipped out earlier with the other employees. Moving her office into this building now seemed like a terrible idea, especially since it left her stuck working near Ethan after their breakup.


    For her, time dragged on endlessly.


    Ethan, on the other hand, felt differently. He thought the elevator was moving too fast, reaching the twentieth floor in no time. He hadn¡¯t even managed to say the words he¡¯d prepared, his throat feeling tight and rendering him speechless.


    As the numbers shed upward, Ethan looked at Brenna, noticing that she was glued to her phone, clearly uninterested in acknowledging him.


    He thought about speaking up several times, but Brenna kept sending voice messages. At one point, she even said, ¡°There¡¯s a jerk in the elevator.¡±


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1012

    ?Chapter 1012:


    Ethan was left embarrassed, thinking he must be the jerk she was talking about. He didn¡¯t have the nerve to reply or confront her.


    The elevator doors finally opened on the fifty-eighth floor. Brenna wasted no time stepping out, feeling a wave of relief.


    Ethan followed her out, trailing just a few steps behind. Brenna made straight for her office and mmed the door shut, nearly letting it hit Ethan. Luckily, he managed to pull back just in time.


    Greta, who had arrived at thepany a little earlier than usual, nced up and caught sight of the scene. The way Brenna shut Ethan out made the rumors of their falling-out seem all the more believable. If they really had split, Greta figured now was her chance to make a move on Ethan.


    Setting her bag aside, she walked over to him. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, are you here to see Brenna?¡±


    Ethan¡¯s gaze turned icy. ¡°Go away,¡± he replied, his tone sharp. Whatever happened between him and Brenna was nobody else¡¯s concern. He was well aware of Greta¡¯s intentions; his secretaries had tried to do the same before, and he was adept at handling such advances.


    Greta was startled by Ethan¡¯s intimidating presence, instinctively stepping back. She felt aggrieved. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, I was just¡ª¡±


    Ethan¡¯s patience wore thin. ¡°Get lost!¡±


    Greta bit her lip and turned away, tears slipping down her cheeks as she hurried back to her desk. Lorna and Tommy, who stepped out of the elevator at that moment, caught the whole scene. They exchanged a quick look and quietly returned to their desks, choosing not tofort Greta.


    Nobody bothered to help Ethan get into Brenna¡¯s office. The staff acted as if he weren¡¯t even there.


    Ethan wasn¡¯t concerned about being embarrassed or about the employees watching from down the hall. By now, everyone knew he and Brenna had broken up, so there was nothing left to hide.


    Nobody dared whisper about it in his presence, at least not openly. He rapped on the door. ¡°Brenna, let me in.¡±


    Silence greeted him.


    He knocked again. ¡°Brenna, I know I made a mistake.¡±


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    Still, the door stayed closed. But Ethan could hear faint footsteps inside. He figured she was standing just behind the door, trying to keep the office from bing a spectacle for the staff.


    He knocked a third time. ¡°Just give me a chance to exin. Please?¡±


    Meanwhile, Brenna was seething with frustration. Why was Ethan still here, causing a scene and letting everyone watch this spectacle? Ten minutes had gone by, and he was still here, refusing to leave.


    ¡°Brenna, I love you,¡± Ethan continued.


    Brenna couldn¡¯t take it anymore and angrily opened the door.


    Ethan, satisfied with his sess, walked into Brenna¡¯s office.


    As soon as Ethan stepped inside, the hallway was filled with excited whispers. Employees gossiped nonstop about what had just happened.


    Brenna stood near the door, her re sharp as she said, ¡°Are you doing this on purpose? Are you trying to make sure everyone here knows our business? Isn¡¯t this mess big enough already?¡±


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1013

    ?Chapter 1013:


    Brenna¡¯s anger simmered just beneath the surface, barely held in check. Not even Elsa¡¯s past insults had managed to make her this furious.


    Ethan looked at her, his voice full of regret. ¡°I just need you to hear me out. I¡¯m sorry for upsetting you. Please forgive me. There¡¯s really something I need to say to you.¡±


    Brenna arched an eyebrow, barely holding back her irritation. ¡°Say what you need to say.¡±


    ¡°I know you hate it when I get involved with Gracie. The truth is, nothing¡¯s going on between Gracie and me. I¡¯m only trying to help her take back the Wilson Group. You know she¡¯s married, and I have no interest in a married woman. Brenna, I¡¯ve already handed over Gracie¡¯s matters to Milton. I¡¯m not getting involved in this anymore.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s expression remained displeased, and though she was clearly angry, she spoke calmly. ¡°I know, but I just don¡¯t like my boyfriend helping another woman.¡± Her position was clear, and she wasn¡¯t about to back down easily.


    Ethan, at a loss, had prepared so much to say but didn¡¯t know where to start. ¡°Brenna, I don¡¯t have feelings for her, and I never will. And about my mother, I¡¯m sorry for what she said to you¡­¡±


    As Ethan poured out his heartfelt exnation, Brenna listened attentively, her initial frustration softening with his evident sincerity. She stayed quiet, giving him the space to express himself fully.


    When he finished speaking, Ethan reached for her arm gently and asked, ¡°Brenna, do you trust what I¡¯m saying? Can we move past this conflict and get back together?¡±


    Brenna eased his hand away and responded evenly, ¡°I ept your apology. I don¡¯t oppose you supporting Gracie.¡±


    Ethan smiled, but seeing Brenna¡¯s calm demeanor, he still felt uneasy. ¡°So, does this mean you¡¯ve agreed to get back together with me?¡± he asked.


    Brenna shook her head. ¡°No, I can¡¯t get back together with you. I can¡¯t ept my boyfriend dating me while helping another woman, especially one who has pursued him before. I don¡¯t believe in a purely tonic friendship between a man and a woman, and Gracie¡¯s intentions aren¡¯t as simple as you think. She didn¡¯t juste to you asking for help with herpany.¡±


    Ethan shook his head. ¡°No, she really just wants me to help her get herpany back. She has no other intentions. If there is anything, it¡¯s just to help her get a divorce. I owe her for helping meunch mypany, so I have to help her now.¡±


    Brenna replied, ¡°Let¡¯s just wait and see what happens.¡±


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    Ethan suggested, ¡°How about this? We set a timeline. Once Gracie regains control of herpany and finalizes her divorce from Hector, I¡¯ll ask you to get back together with me again. Does that work? Brenna, you¡¯re the only person I love in this world. I swear I¡¯m telling the truth.¡±


    Ethan gazed at Brenna sincerely. ¡°During this time, let¡¯s not look for new partners, okay?¡±


    Brenna pushed him out the door without replying.


    As the door swung open, the office, previously buzzing with animated conversation, went quiet. Employees quickly returned to their tasks, pretending no gossip had urred.


    Ethan lingered outside, murmuring, ¡°So, it¡¯s a deal, right?¡±


    He pressed his ear to the door briefly. Hearing no protest from Brenna, he felt satisfied.


    .


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    .

 Chapter 1014

    ?Chapter 1014:


    He turned in a light mood and entered the elevator to leave.


    As soon as Ethan disappeared into the elevator, the office chatter reignited.


    ¡°Seems like they¡¯ve patched things up.¡±


    ¡°Lorna, you haven¡¯t tidied the CEO¡¯s office today, have you? Go in and do that now,¡± someone said, clearly fishing for details about whether Brenna was upset.


    Lorna gave her colleague a sidelong nce. ¡°Not happening.¡±


    At that moment, Greta emerged from the restroom, her eyes puffy and red, shuffling back to her desk under curious stares. She asionally nced toward Brenna¡¯s office.


    A female employee, with a taunting edge, said, ¡°No use staring; Mr. Mitchell¡¯s already gone.¡±


    The person who had spoken to Lorna said again, ¡°Lorna, you haven¡¯t cleaned the CEO¡¯s office.¡±


    Lorna sighed. ¡°I know. But I¡¯m worried Ms. Harper will vent her anger on me.¡±


    Reluctantly, Lorna entered Brenna¡¯s office. She scanned the room cautiously; it was neat, with no signs of disarray, and Brenna appearedposed. It was clear no fight had taken ce earlier.


    ¡°Ms. Harper, I haven¡¯t cleaned your office yet,¡± Lorna said.


    Brenna nodded absently. Just then, her phone rang with an unknown number.


    ¡°Go ahead and do it. I¡¯ll step over there to take this call.¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡± Seeing Brenna¡¯s calm demeanor, Lorna didn¡¯t pry. She grabbed a bucket of water, tended to the nts, dusted the desk and shelves, and swept and mopped the floor.


    She worked quietly, careful not to disrupt Brenna¡¯s conversation on the phone. When Lorna finished her tasks and returned to her desk, her coworkers swarmed her.


    ¡°So, how was it? Was Ms. Harper mad? Did she cry?¡±


    ¡°Come on, spill it!¡±


    Lorna shrugged. ¡°Ms. Harper seemedpletely normal, with no sign of being upset. She was even arranging a business meeting for ten.¡± The group scattered, disappointed.


    Greta, who had been discreetly observing Lorna since she entered the office, walked over.


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    ¡°Did Ms. Harper say anything about me?¡± she asked.


    Lorna shook her head. ¡°Nope.¡±


    Greta felt disappointed, but her worries eased. She had feared that Ethan wouldin to Brenna about her behavior, which might lead to Brenna firing her. It wasforting to know that he hadn¡¯t said anything about her to Brenna. She had once believed that Ethan¡¯s friendly demeanor toward her meant he had feelings for her.


    But today, the cold contempt in his eyes made her realize her mistake. She finally understood where she stood in Ethan¡¯s heart and vowed not to have false hopes about him again. From now on, she would focus on her work.


    Just then, Brenna stepped out of her office and tapped on Tommy¡¯s door. Tommy emerged.


    .


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    .

 Chapter 1015

    ?Chapter 1015:


    ¡°Brenna, are you heading out now?¡±


    Brenna gave a slight nod. ¡°Yes, right away. Follow up on the robot dog order; the client is in a hurry. I¡¯m leaving with Joe now. You keep an eye on things here.¡±


    Brenna had just stepped out of the elevator with Joe and Thiago when she saw Gracie walking straight toward her. Their eyes met, and Gracie¡¯s gaze was brimming with hostility. She stopped in front of Brenna, and for a few tense seconds, they stared at each other, locked in a silent standoff.


    Brenna didn¡¯t flinch, but her mood darkened. It was obvious that Gracie was here to see Ethan again. It seemed impossible for him to avoid her, no matter how hard he tried. Her persistence was bing more than just annoying.


    Gracie wore heavy makeup, and a scarf was neatly draped around her neck. Clearly, she was hiding something, but Brenna still caught the faint shadow of a bruise along her jaw.


    Gracie¡¯s husband had hit her again.


    Brenna stared at the bruise for a moment, unsure whether to pity her or think she deserved it.


    ¡°Mrs. Nicolson, why are you looking at me like that? Do you need anything from me?¡± Brenna asked, her tone t and her expression unreadable.


    Gracie didn¡¯t answer right away. It was clear she was in a foul mood, which wasn¡¯t surprising. A woman trapped in a miserable marriage and beaten by her husband usually wouldn¡¯t be in the best spirits.


    Only thirty minutes earlier, Gracie had called Ethan, asking for help again. But this time, he had redirected her to Milton, which had caught her off guard. Just days ago, Ethan had been at her beck and call. Now, he had shut the door on her without hesitation. Had he reconciled with Brenna?


    Of course, Gracie wouldn¡¯t ask Brenna that directly. She took a different route.


    ¡°What does your new boyfriend do? I believe his name is Darwin Atkinson?¡± she asked Brenna.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Brenna replied, unsure where Gracie was going with this. Given their history, she knew better than to let her guard down. She and Darwin hadn¡¯t officially started dating¡ªthey were just friends for now. But she sensed Gracie¡¯s intentions weren¡¯t simple, so she casually confirmed it.


    Gracie¡¯s sharp gaze softened, and the corners of her mouth lifted into a faint smile. ¡°I think you and Mr. Atkinson are a perfect match. I wish you both happiness.¡±


    She believed Brenna had given up on Ethan. There was no hostility or jealousy in her gaze when Brenna looked at her, just calm indifference.


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    ¡°I¡¯m here to ask Ethan for a favor,¡± Gracie added lightly, though the warmth in her voice was clearly insincere. ¡°I¡¯m heading up now. Where are you off to?¡±


    Brenna wasn¡¯t about to tell her the truth. She was on her way to meet Gracie¡¯s husband, Hector, to discuss a well-nned strike against the Wilson Group. Gracie had taken her boyfriend, so Brenna believed it was only right for her to take Gracie¡¯spany to get back at her.


    Brenna feigned a smile. ¡°Go ahead. He just left my office, so he should be in his office now.¡±


    Gracie¡¯s smug mood faltered. Why had Ethan gone to see Brenna? Their rtionship was supposed to be over. Could it be that he still cared about Brenna?


    Doubt crept in. Was Brenna the reason Ethan had suddenly refused to help her personally?


    .


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    .

 Chapter 1016

    ?Chapter 1016:


    Resentment bubbled up inside her, but before she could say anything, Brenna had already turned and walked away.


    Brenna soon slid into the car. Joe took the driver¡¯s seat while Thiago settled in beside her, talkative as ever.


    ¡°Gracie¡¯s got some nerve. Even after her husband hit her, she still has the guts to see Ethan. Remember that day Hector dragged her off like he didn¡¯t care who was watching? That was basically a warning for everyone to stay out of his business with Gracie. Since Gracie is going to see Ethan again, it¡¯s probably because he¡¯s the only one brave or stupid enough to get involved in this.¡±


    Brenna didn¡¯t respond. An ufortable tightness settled in her chest. Ethan had just promised her he wouldn¡¯t help Gracie personally. Was he going to break that promise?


    Clutching her phone, Brenna stared at the screen for a moment, debating with herself. Then, she typed out a message to Ethan.


    ¡°I ran into Gracie downstairs. She¡¯s on her way to your office to see you.¡±


    She wanted to see how Ethan would respond.


    ¡°I¡¯m not in my office right now. I have to go to Plomond today,¡± Ethan replied almost immediately. Attached was a photo taken through a car window, showing the highway entrance.


    At the sight of this, Brenna¡¯s mood improved. She turned to Thiago and said, ¡°Ethan is going to Plomond today. He¡¯s not in his office.¡±


    Thiago gave her a sideways nce and raised an eyebrow. ¡°Feeling relieved?¡±


    Pleased, Brenna smiled faintly and nodded. The thought of Gracie finding no refuge¡ªmaybe even walking back into another round of abuse¡ªdidn¡¯t stir pity. She believed Gracie deserved it.


    It wasn¡¯t that Brenna was heartless. It was Gracie who had crossed the line. Time and again, she made reckless choices and dragged Ethan into the mess. Gracie asking Ethan for help would only drag him down, potentially putting hispany in jeopardy. How could Gracie be so selfish?


    The Wilson Group was a massive economic entity. Even if the entire Mitchell Group was involved, it might not be enough to save it. Gracie was leading Ethan to ruin.


    She was not seeing the situation clearly.


    ??¦Ñ??¦Á?????? ?????? ???? ????????¦Í????????????


    Soon, the car pulled up to the destination¡ªa small caf¨¦.


    As they stepped out of the car, Thiago nced around and muttered, ¡°Isn¡¯t Hector from Norview? I thought people there don¡¯t like drinking coffee. Kinda weird he¡¯d prefer Vand¡¯s coffee.¡±


    ¡°It is a bit weird,¡± Brenna said, her eyes flicking toward the entrance.


    Several bodyguards in ck suits and dark sunsses stood stationed outside the caf¨¦. Seeing Brenna¡¯s car pulling up, one of them spoke into a walkie-talkie. After Brenna, Joe, and Thiago all stepped out of the car, one of the bodyguards approached Brenna. ¡°Are you Ms. Brenna Harper?¡±


    ¡°Yes. I am here to see Hector as arranged,¡± Brenna replied curtly.


    ¡°Apologies, but for the safety of our vice president and you, please cooperate.¡± The bodyguard turned to Joe and Thiago, conducting a quick yet thorough pat-down.


    When it came to Brenna, they didn¡¯ty a hand on her. Instead, one of the guards used a handheld scanner and slowly swept it across her frame.


    Stepping inside, Brenna was struck by the hush that filled the ce; hardly a sound could be heard.


    .


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    .

 Chapter 1017

    ?Chapter 1017:


    Several young men, each dressed sharply in a suit, sat along a long table, their focus fixed on openptops.


    Against the far wall, Hector upied his own spot,ptop at the ready, with the scent of freshly brewed coffee curling in the air.


    Seeing Brenna and her group, Hector rose to greet them, extending his hand with genuine politeness. ¡°I am sorry for the inconvenience earlier,¡± he said. ¡°I¡¯ve only arrived a few days ago, and assassins have alreadye after me more than once, so I have to be on guard.¡±


    No exnation was needed; Brenna knew well the habits of powerful men. Their travels always included teams of bodyguards. When she had worked with Hector in Norviewst time, his ce had been crawling with security.


    With a small nod, Brenna took her seat across from him. ¡°I understand.¡± If it were anyone else, she wouldn¡¯t have allowed them to search her.


    Hector responded with gratitude, turning hisptop toward her. ¡°I appreciate your understanding, Miss Harper. Last time we worked together, it was a pleasure. For this project, I¡¯m offering two hundred million. I need you to put together a n. I know you¡¯re a financial expert, so this shouldn¡¯t be difficult for you.¡±


    A nce at the screen showed Brenna a series of graphs¡ªthe Wilson Group¡¯s stock had been tumbling for months, each dip steeper than thest. Continued losses like this would mean bankruptcy was only a matter of time.


    ¡°The decline¡¯s been relentless. The Wilson Group must be hemorrhaging money at this point,¡± Brenna observed, lifting her gaze, uncertain of Hector¡¯s ultimate goal. From what she understood, his original n had been to acquire thepany, but if it crashed, there would be nothing left to take.


    Curiosity got the better of her. ¡°I thought your intention was to acquire the Wilson Group?¡±


    A shake of Hector¡¯s head dismissed the notion. ¡°I want it ruined. I want thepany stripped of everything. The n had been going smoothly until Gracie started seeking Ethan¡¯s help. Look, the stocks have been rising again in thest couple of days. That¡¯s not what I want to see, which is why I¡¯m asking for your help now.¡±


    Weighing her options, Brenna offered a cool reply. ¡°If I step in, the Mitchell Group will get hurt, too. Ethan and I were together before. Why do you think I will help you go against him?¡±


    Laughter rumbled from Hector as he shook his head once more. ¡°Miss Harper, I may be new in Shirie, but I¡¯m not blind to what¡¯s going on. You and Ethan are finished. He¡¯s getting close to my wife. Wouldn¡¯t you like to get back at him a little? I want to teach my wife a lesson, leave her broke, and cut her off for good. As for Ethan, you could wipe out billions of his fortune and show him the consequences of his actions. It will be a win-win for us.¡±


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    Agreement showed in Brenna¡¯s slight nod. She was displeased with Ethan for sending Milton to help Gracie. Although Ethan hadn¡¯t intervened directly, he still invested over ten billion to save the Wilson Group for Gracie.


    Given the circumstances, Ethan indeed deserved a lesson.


    ¡°You are right,¡± Brenna replied.


    A satisfied grin formed on Hector¡¯s lips. ¡°Bring the Wilson Group to its knees within a week, and I¡¯ll give you an additional three hundred million.¡±


    .


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    .

 Chapter 1018

    ?Chapter 1018:


    ¡°You¡¯ve got a deal,¡± Brenna answered without hesitation.


    Methodically, she beganbing through the Wilson Group¡¯s financial statements, leaving nothing unchecked. Thiago soon ced her ownptop before her, letting her craft a strategy.


    All around them, the caf¨¦ held onto its quiet atmosphere as the hours passed. Brenna¡¯s team had arrived at half past ten in the morning and didn¡¯t depart until well after ten that night. By then, each person was carrying away two bags of premium coffee beans, avish parting gift from Hector, rumored to fetch hundreds of thousands per pound.


    Home atst, Brenna saw Giselle waiting anxiously for her in the living room. She had been calling Brenna since eight in the evening, but Brenna hadn¡¯t answered, which had made her worried. She had just been about to instruct the bodyguards to go and find Brenna. ¡°Why are you back sote today?¡±


    A bright smile crossed Brenna¡¯s face. ¡°Picked up some part-time job,¡± she said, handing Giselle one of the bags. ¡°Try this. It¡¯s top-shelf stuff.¡±


    Giselle hardly nced at the coffee beans. The Harper family had plenty of good coffee beans, mostly gifts from others.


    With a casual gesture, she passed the beans to Julia, who tucked them into the pantry alongside the rest.


    She said to Brenna, ¡°If you ever need money, just ask me for it. No need to work yourself to the bone. It¡¯s already eleven in the evening; please don¡¯t work so hard next time.¡±


    As they moved upstairs together, Giselle pressed for details.


    Brenna told Giselle everything.


    Worry etched deeper into Giselle¡¯s features. ¡°This kind of thing is dangerous. If Gracie discovers you¡¯re orchestrating the Wilson Group¡¯s downfall, there¡¯s no telling how she¡¯ll strike back. Promise me you¡¯ll take security with you from now on.¡±


    Brenna nodded, recognizing her mother¡¯s concern even though she didn¡¯t share it. She knew refusing protection would only make Giselle more worried. ¡°Alright, Mom, I will do as you say. Besides, I just earned two hundred million. If you¡¯re ever short on money, I will give you some,¡± she said.


    Augh bubbled from Giselle. ¡°I have more than enough. Your father sends me money every month, and I can¡¯t spend it all. I even splurged on a new bag today¡ªan early Christmas treat for myself. And that ne you bought mest week? I absolutely adore it.¡±


    ¡°Have you decided whether you¡¯ll make an appearance at the Harper Group¡¯s Christmas party? Your father wanted me to ask you about this. They¡¯re nning a lot of games and even a raffle. Sounds like quite the event. Does any of that interest you?¡± Giselle chatted with Brenna.


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    ¡°I¡¯m fine with showing up. But I don¡¯t have any talents to show off, and I¡¯m not keen on participating in activities. I just want to be part of the crowd and unwind a bit,¡± Brenna responded, weighing the chance to mingle at the Harper Group¡¯s party.


    Beaming, Giselle said, ¡°Let¡¯s go together then. I¡¯ll talk to your father about letting you present the awards to the outstanding employees.¡±


    ¡°Alright,¡± Brenna answered.


    ¡°We should pick out our outfits soon. We can go shopping in a few days,¡± Giselle said.


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 Chapter 1019

    ?Chapter 1019:


    Morning came quickly. After finishing breakfast, Brenna was ready to get into her car, heading out for work as usual. To her surprise, there were already two bodyguards inside the car¡ªone manned the wheel, while the other took the passenger seat.


    ¡°She is really serious about this. She actually arranged for bodyguards to escort me,¡± Brenna muttered, sliding into the backseat.


    Midday rolled around, and Brenna made her way to the cafeteria. She usually shared meals with Thiago, Tommy, and Joe, and today, she followed the same routine.


    The Mitchell Group cafeteria provided an impressive selection of dishes. With skilled chefs and decent prices, Brenna had no shortage of options for lunch. As she sat down with her food, a familiar figure caught her eye. Gracie was here.


    She hadn¡¯t expected to spot Gracie at the Mitchell Group. For a moment, she wondered why Gracie wasn¡¯t busy trying to save the Wilson Group. How did she even find time to drop by and spend time with Ethan?


    Annoyance washed over Brenna. She dug at her food, her appetite all but gone. Thiago caught her reaction and tried to offerfort. ¡°Don¡¯t let it get to you. Ethan¡¯s not in thepany today. Gracie is eating lunch with Milton and the other two vice presidents.¡±


    He pointed his fork toward Milton¡¯s table, which wasn¡¯t far from where they sat. ncing in that direction, Brenna saw Gracie seated with the vice presidents.


    Each one wore a worried expression, looking like they were facing a difficult problem.


    Milton, who had taken charge of the Wilson Group¡¯s crisis, looked especially troubled. After spotting Brenna, he turned to Gracie and the others. ¡°Ms. Harper is here as well. People say she knows her way around finance. Maybe she could lend us some insight?¡±


    Henley Burke shook his head right away. ¡°Absolutely not. Everyone here is aware of the tension between Mr. Mitchell and her. She won¡¯t help us. She might even get angry at us for asking for her advice.¡±


    Otis Braxton could hardly hide his frustration. ¡°So what now? We¡¯re running on fumes here. No matter how much money we throw at this, the Wilson Group just keeps sinking. Without a trillion, there¡¯s no hope. Might as well call it quits.¡± Milton had already warned Ethan that saving the Wilson Group was next to impossible. Trying to rescue it would mean risking the entire Mitchell Group.


    ¡°I¡¯m begging you. Please, I need your help.¡± Gracie¡¯s voice trembled, tears slipping down her cheeks. She pushed her te away, unable to eat. Not long ago, she had believed herself to be a financial whiz, a natural in business, thinking she could pull the Wilson Group back from the edge.


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    After months of tireless work, Gracie had only managed to slow the downward spiral of Wilson Group¡¯s stock. From the moment the market opened that morning, their shares had been plummeting.


    Gracie had tried reaching Ethan multiple times, but every time she called, he told her to ask Milton for help.


    But Milton had no solutions.


    Rising from his seat, Milton picked up his tray. ¡°We are left with no other choice now. I¡¯ll go ask Ms. Harper for help.¡±


    While Brenna was eating, her phone lit up with a message from Ethan¡ªa photo of him out to eat with a few business contacts. She ignored the message. Just then, Milton approached, greeting her with a polite smile as he sat down beside her. ¡°Good afternoon, Ms. Harper.¡±


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    .

 Chapter 1020

    Chapter 1020:


    Brenna had run into Milton at Ethan¡¯s office several times before. Middle-aged and fit, he carried himself with a youthful energy. His sharp business sense made him an invaluable right-hand to Ethan.


    ¡°Hello, Mr. Green,¡± she replied, her tone cool.


    A flicker of unease crossed Milton¡¯s face. He could sense Brenna¡¯s cold attitude. As expected, after Brenna¡¯s breakup with Ethan, she wasn¡¯t fond of anyone in hispany.


    She didn¡¯t even offer the courtesy of asking if he needed anything, which only made things more awkward.


    ¡°Ms. Harper, I have something important to ask you.¡± After pausing for a moment, Milton decided there was no point dancing around the issue, so he got straight to the point.


    Brenna said nothing, already guessing why Milton had approached her. Milton felt awkward. Brenna¡¯s cold attitude toward him made it hard to engage with her.


    He didn¡¯t know if he should continue.


    Thiago, noticing Milton¡¯s difort, intervened, saying, ¡°Mr. Green, go ahead and speak your mind.¡±


    Taking a breath, Milton said, ¡°Mr. Mitchell put me in charge of handling the Wilson Group¡¯s crisis. The shares crashed this morning, and I wanted to ask Ms. Harper if she has any advice on how to turn things around.¡±


    Brenna remained silent.


    Trying to lighten the mood, Thiago gave Milton a knowing smile. ¡°Mr. Green, you do realize Gracie and Brenna aren¡¯t exactly friends, right? Do you think it¡¯s appropriate to ask her this?¡±


    Milton, of course, knew it wasn¡¯t appropriate. Otherwise, he would have gone straight to Brenna¡¯s office this morning.


    ¡°Mr. Moreno, trust me, I wouldn¡¯t be here unless I had run out of options. Ms. Harper, could you please help us find a way through this?¡± he said.


    Thiago was amused by Milton¡¯s troubled look. After all, Brenna was the one who had put the Wilson Group in this situation, so why would she offer any advice to help them recover? Her actions were a calcted move against the Mitchell Group, causing them significant losses effortlessly.


    Keeping her focus on her meal, Brenna never once looked Milton¡¯s way.


    Trying to break the tension, Thiago decided to talk to Milton.


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    ¡°I know a thing or two about finance, so I¡¯ll give you some advice. Honestly, you should stay out of this. Whatever happens to the Wilson Group really doesn¡¯t concern you.¡±


    That was as clear as Thiago could make it.


    Milton, with all his years navigating business circles, caught the meaning behind his words.


    He let out a long sigh. ¡°I¡¯ve already told Mr. Mitchell that we don¡¯t need to get mixed up in this. But he¡¯s set on helping the Wilson Group, and as employees, we have to follow his orders.¡±


    Hearing that, Thiago scoffed. He threw a quick nce at Brenna, who just kept eating, as if she hadn¡¯t heard Milton¡¯s words at all.


    Thiago said, ¡°If your boss insists on throwing money away, then let him do it. Let him risk everything to save the Wilson Group. In the end, thousands of employees in yourpany will lose their jobs, and the Mitchell Group will be finished.¡±


    .


    .


    .<hr>


    Message from Noah: Have an excellent weekend, dear ones. God loves you and Noah wishes you all the best. ©d( ??? )? ? *?


    .

 Chapter 1021

    ?Chapter 1021:


    Milton¡¯s face grew serious. ¡°I can¡¯t let that happen.¡± He had considered the same oue, but Ethan had been so stubborn.


    After a pause, Milton said, ¡°I know what I need to do now.¡± He would buy time, acting as though he truly wanted to help the Wilson Group, all while doing little and waiting for their copse.


    After all, he was just a hired executive, not an actual stakeholder in the Mitchell Group. Even if the Mitchell Group went bankrupt, he wouldn¡¯t be affected much.


    ¡°Thank you for talking to me. I¡¯ll be heading back now,¡± he said to Thiago before standing up and leaving.


    Brenna finally turned to Thiago. ¡°Do you think he understood what you meant?¡±


    Thiago answered with certainty, ¡°He¡¯s not stupid. I said one thing and meant another, and you stayed silent. He knows what to do now.¡±


    Brenna gave a soft hum in response and nced over at the table where Gracie was sitting.


    Gracie was quick to ask Milton, ¡°So, how did it go? I noticed Brenna didn¡¯t say a single word to you.¡±


    With a cool and distant tone, Milton replied, ¡°Mrs. Nicolson, this sort of issue can¡¯t be solved on the spot. Let¡¯s enjoy lunch first. I¡¯ll gather the leadership for a meetingter today so we can work out a n.¡±


    Gracie¡¯s confusion was obvious. ¡°You were so anxious earlier. Why do you seem so calm now? Did youe up with something? What is it? Tell me.¡±


    She held out her phone for him to see. ¡°Look, the Wilson Group stock is tanking by the minute. We¡¯re losing a fortune right now!¡±


    ¡°Just try to stay calm. I¡¯m already putting together a solution,¡± Milton said. Gracie started to cry, but the three vice presidents showed no reaction to her tears.


    Later in the afternoon, Brenna sat in her office, deep in conversation with Thiago about the next shipment of robotic arms, when Lorna came in with two drinks¡ªcoffee for Brenna and lemon juice for Thiago.


    With a yful tone, Lorna started chatting. ¡°Boss, guess what? I just bumped into ni downstairs. She told me that during Milton¡¯s executive meeting, he suddenly fainted and had to be rushed to the hospital.¡±


    Brenna barely reacted. ¡°Is that so? He looked fine during lunch.¡±


    Thiago gave a smallugh. ¡°You know how it goes. As people get older, health scares pop up more often. He¡¯ll be back on his feet after a bit of rest.¡±


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    Lorna nodded along. ¡°Exactly. Once people reach a certain age, sickness is prettymon. ni also said that Gracie had spent an entire day and night waiting for Mr. Mitchell near his office. But he never came back, and her every attempt to call him failed.¡±


    Finishing her updates, Lorna left Brenna¡¯s office.


    A bright smile broke out across Brenna¡¯s face.


    Thiago grinned, saying, ¡°Feeling happy now?¡±


    ¡°Yeah,¡± Brenna replied, picking up her desk phone. ¡°Lorna, get everyone a fruit juice of their choice. My treat. Don¡¯t forget to include the people on the fifty-seventh floor.¡±


    Apuse and cheers filtered in from outside.


    Brenna felt her mood soar. She suddenly understood Ethan¡¯s intentions now. Ethan was distancing himself from Gracie. Instead of turning her down outright, he had


    .


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    .

 Chapter 1022

    ?Chapter 1022:


    Handed the situation over to Milton, Ethan knew that having poured so much into building the Mitchell Group from the ground up, he could never just stand by and let it be affected by such a trivial matter.


    Thiago, sharing in the good mood, let out a lightugh. ¡°Now that the holidays are near and our team¡¯s expanding, have you made any ns about what we are going to do?¡±


    Brenna replied, ¡°My mom wants me to celebrate Christmas with the Harper Group. Maybe I can invite everyone here to join me?¡±


    Shaking his head, Thiago replied, ¡°That might not work out so well. Let me take charge of arranging the Christmas party. There¡¯s no need for you to stress about it, especially since you¡¯re not big on gatherings.¡±


    A quiet sound of agreement came from Brenna. ¡°Ourpany has done well this year. Let¡¯s set aside two million for bonuses and pick up some prizes for a raffle.¡±


    As Brenna exited the elevator after work, she was greeted by a scene of chaos. Two male receptionists and two female receptionists, along with the entire security team stationed on the ground floor, were holding back a restless crowd. At the front of the crowd stood Hector, a white bandage stretching across his left cheek, giving him a menacing air.


    With fury burning in his eyes, Hector seized the young male receptionist by the cor and spoke in a cold voice, ¡°Where¡¯s Gracie? Bring her out now. Don¡¯t think hiding her will stop me.¡±


    Receptionists and security guards faced Hector¡¯s bodyguards head-on, ready for anything and refusing to back down. Anyone could tell his bodyguards were nothing to mess with. They exuded an intimidating presence.


    Even with his cor clutched, the young receptionist responded without flinching, ¡°Sir, please let go of me. This isn¡¯t helping anyone. If you keep this up, we¡¯ll have no choice but to call the police.¡±


    Hector¡¯s demeanor shifted the moment he spotted Brenna, and he quickly acted as if he didn¡¯t know her. Brenna shot him a brief look and walked over. ¡°What¡¯s happening here?¡±


    Relief swept over the receptionists now that someone with authority had arrived. Hector loosened his grip, letting the receptionist go.


    Turning to the receptionist, Brenna also pretended she didn¡¯t know Hector. ¡°Who is this man, and what does he want?¡±


    ?????????? ???????????????? ????????????: g????????¦Í??????[?]??????


    The receptionist picked up on Brenna¡¯s tone and realized that neither she nor anyone else seemed to know who Hector really was.


    Alec approached Brenna, lowering his voice. ¡°Brenna, this man ims he¡¯s Gracie¡¯s husband, but none of us have ever seen him before. He¡¯s demanding to see her, using us of hiding her here, and making threats if we don¡¯t cooperate.¡±


    Unfazed, Brenna kept her cool. She wasn¡¯t sure what had brought Hector here today. And when they had met yesterday, Hector had seemed fine. Why was he now injured in the face?


    ¡°Sir, which Gracie are you looking for? We have thousands of employees in this building; several people have that name. If you really are her husband, you should know more than just her name. Why not tell us her job title or what she looks like?¡±


    ¡°The receptionists can help you from there. Or you could call her directly to ask her toe down. Creating chaos here isn¡¯t the right way to do things,¡± Brenna said.


    Growing agitated, Hector jabbed a finger at his bandaged cheek. ¡°I don¡¯t know what position she holds. All I know is she¡¯s hiding in this building. Bring her out, or I¡¯ll force my way in. Take a look at this¡ªmy lovely wife did this to me. She sent someone to kill me. I ended up with four stitches after a bullet barely missed. I¡¯m lucky to be alive now. I¡¯m here to confront her.¡±


    .


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 Chapter 1023

    ?Chapter 1023:


    Brenna felt a jolt of surprise, though after thinking for a moment, she realized that this was expected. Hector had hurt Gracie, taken over her assets, and brought harm to her father. In a way, it made sense that Gracie might want Hector dead.


    Suddenly, she recalled how Hector had mentioned he had faced multiple assassination attempts recently when they had spoken yesterday. She¡¯d dismissed it as a joke at that time, but now, she was not so sure.


    What a tragedy, Brenna thought, for Gracie and Hector¡¯s rtionship to reach this level of animosity.


    ¡°If that¡¯s how things stand, you¡¯ll have to wait here. Just so you know, the Mitchell Group¡¯s security is no joke. You can call her to ask her toe down or wait outside, but you¡¯re not getting in by force,¡± Brenna replied firmly.


    Hector didn¡¯t care, waving his hand slightly, and his bodyguards immediately charged forward.


    Alec and Brenna, along with the receptionists, were shoved aside in themotion. The bodyguards moved roughly through the group, though they were a lot gentler when moving Brenna out of the way.


    ¡°Don¡¯t let them in!¡± barked the security captain, and chaos erupted throughout the lobby. The Mitchell Group¡¯s security force tried to hold their ground, but Hector¡¯s bodyguards overpowered them with ease. Within moments, Hector and his entourage had made it into the elevator. Reacting fast, a male receptionist dialed the police.


    Two female receptionists rushed to Brenna¡¯s side, anxiously checking on her, asking if she was alright.


    ¡°I¡¯m all right. Hurry and call the police. Those people mean trouble. Gracie is close to your boss. You should warn her somehow. If Hector finds her, it won¡¯t end well for her,¡± said Brenna, feigning a look of concern.


    ¡°But we don¡¯t have her contact information. How can we reach her to warn her about this?¡± one of the receptionists said, clearly worried.


    Brenna offered a solution. ¡°Call your boss. He definitely has Gracie¡¯s number.¡± She wondered how Ethan would handle such a situation.


    ¡°You are right; I¡¯ll call Mr. Mitchell right now. Thank you, Ms. Harper,¡± the receptionist replied, quickly pulling out her phone to contact Neville.


    Not waiting around, Brenna left the building.


    ?????????????? ???????? ???????????? ???????? ??????????¦Í??????©q??????


    Alec followed her. ¡°Brenna, what¡¯s gotten into you today? Those people are dangerous. You shouldn¡¯t have intervened. Think about your safety first next time.¡±


    Brenna acknowledged his sensible words. ¡°Alright, I understand.¡±


    Without another word, she got into her car. As her bodyguard drove, she reached for her phone and dialed Hector¡¯s number.


    Hector ended the call, then pressed the button for the ny-ninth floor.


    Inside her office, Gracie lingered near the giant window, watching the city of Shirie under the afternoon sun. Restlessness filled her. She nced at her phone again and again, hoping for a message or a call from Ethan. All afternoon, her attempts to reach Ethan had gone unanswered. Every time, his phone was turned off.


    Worry gnawed at her. Maybe Ethan had decided to abandon her. Perhaps he was done offering his help.


    Her anxiety grew until her phone vibrated in her hand. Ethan was calling her. Without wasting a second, she answered the call, her voice trembling with emotion. ¡°Ethan, you¡¯ve finally called. I¡ª¡±


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1024

    ?Chapter 1024:


    Ethan spoke with urgency. ¡°Hector ising for you. Use my private elevator and leave the building now. Don¡¯t hesitate, and don¡¯t ask questions. Leave immediately.¡±


    Fear overtook Gracie¡¯s face. She spun on her heel and rushed for the door, grabbing her bag on the way.


    Crossing the corridor, she spotted the employee elevator. The arrow kept blinking upward, which only fed her panic.


    She worried that Hector might emerge and harm her soon, especially since she had hired several hitmen to kill him over the past few days. She hadn¡¯t anticipated that Hector would survive every attempt.


    With shaky hands, she walked to Ethan¡¯s exclusive elevator, darted inside, and watched the doors slide shut. At that moment, Hector stepped out from another elevator and strode purposefully toward her office.


    He found the office empty, the door thrown wide open.


    A male secretary hurried over, several others in tow. Confusion burned in their eyes as they confronted Hector. ¡°Who are you? What are you doing here?¡± It was time to leave work, and many people had gathered, questioning what Hector and his people were doing and why they had stormed in.


    Hector looked at the male secretary, his gaze icy. ¡°Tell me where Gracie is.¡±


    ¡°Why should I tell you anything about her? What right do you have to know that kind of information?¡± Fear shed across the secretary¡¯s face. He tried to sound braver than he felt. He knew how much Gracie mattered to the CEO, and the strangers surrounding Hector only made him more convinced that these people were dangerous. He couldn¡¯t tell them where Gracie was.


    ¡°I¡¯m Gracie¡¯s husband. I¡¯m here to bring her home.¡± Hector tried to soften his tone. A faint smile crossed his lips, and he worked hard to appear amicable. But no one believed him; his demeanor seemed more like someone seeking revenge than a man picking up his wife.


    ¡°She just left. None of us knows where she went,¡± the male secretary replied, offering a vague answer.


    A couple of bodyguards walked over after their search on this floor, shaking their heads, signaling to Hector that Gracie was indeed not here.


    ¡°Thanks,¡± said Hector, this time shing an even gentler smile. ¡°Can you tell me when she left?¡±


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    The secretary hesitated, considering the situation. With Gracie already gone and their efforts to dy Hector buying her extra minutes, she likely had plenty of time to exit the building and get away by car.


    ¡°It was only a moment ago. But are you truly her husband?¡± The secretary tried to stall for more time.


    Hector let out a nomittal hum and turned away. He elbowed through the growing crowd and then pressed the elevator button. But it was rush hour, and the elevator was busy, with the indicator showing it was going down. They would have to wait at least five minutes.


    Waiting was the only option left.


    However, Hector wasn¡¯t worried at all. He had stationed people on the ground floor and in the underground parking lot. As soon as Gracie appeared, she would be caught.


    Just then, his phone rang, and he received the news that Gracie had been caught.


    .


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    .

 Chapter 1025

    ?Chapter 1025:


    ¡°Got it,¡± he said.


    Meanwhile, Brenna watched the scene unfold from inside her own car. She saw the bodyguards escorting Gracie to a waiting vehicle. Only when she saw Hector finally emerge from the building did she tell her driver to leave.


    Hector soon slid into his car.


    Gracie sat in the back seat, her hair a tangled mess and her eyes zing with anger. ¡°You¡¯ve tracked me here?¡±


    Despite Gracie¡¯s tough front, fear gnawed at her. She wondered if Hector already knew she was behind the botched assassination attempt earlier that day.


    ¡°Did you really believe hiding here would keep you safe?¡± Hector¡¯s voice turned harsh as he leaned in, gripping her chin firmly. ¡°You sent people to kill me, Gracie. I didn¡¯t expect that from you.¡±


    His anger boiled over. He yanked her hair back with one hand and struck her hard with the other, leaving her lip bleeding.


    All the anger drained from Gracie¡¯s face, reced by terror. She had spent two days hiding in her office in the Mitchell Group building, hoping the assassins she had hired could kill Hector. But she had failed.


    Hopelessness set in. ¡°What will it take for you to let me go? You already control everything my family owns. Isn¡¯t that enough for you?¡± she said.


    Hector let out a coldugh. ¡°You want me to let you go? My aunt once loved your father with her whole heart, and how did he repay her? He took her kidney, her liver, even her heart and eyes, using her as nothing more than a science project. My aunt¡¯s body is still lying in that institute. You and your father have suffered so littlepared to what you deserve, and you already want mercy? This is just the beginning. Don¡¯t think for a second I¡¯ll let you off easily.¡±


    Gracie muttered, ¡°I don¡¯t care about anything anymore. Take my family¡¯s fortune. Take it all. I¡¯m begging you, just let me go¡­¡±


    Hector hit her again, several blowsnding across her face, and her head hit the window. A bruise began to form above her eyebrow.


    Just then, her phone rang with Ethan¡¯s name lighting up the screen. Tears streamed down her cheeks. Ethan was still away on business, and even if he set off toe back now, he wouldn¡¯t be able to save her.


    Hector¡¯s hand twisted tightly in Gracie¡¯s hair, yanking her head up so her eyes were locked on theptop¡¯s screen.


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    Disyed in chilling real-time, the video showed an elderly man, his hair streaked with gray, motionless on the operating table, as a masked surgeon methodically cut into his body to extract organs.


    Frozen in terror, Gracie stared wide-eyed, her scream splitting the air. ¡°No!¡± The elderly man having his organs removed was her father.


    ¡°Please, don¡¯t hurt him! Don¡¯t take his organs. I¡¯ll give you anything! I swear I¡¯ll never cross you again. I¡¯m begging you,¡± she pleaded, voice raw with emotion. Panic dropped her to her knees at Hector¡¯s feet. ¡°Take the Wilson Group! Take it all. Just spare my father and me¡­¡±


    With a flick of his wrist, Hector let her hair go, his face darkening. ¡°You think this is all about money? I couldn¡¯t care less about yourpany or your assets. This is vengeance¡ªyour father made my aunt suffer, and now, he¡¯ll suffer the same fate. I want every organ he owns, preserved as specimens.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t do this. I¡¯m begging you¡­¡± Gracie said, desperation breaking her voice. Just then, a document was handed to Hector by a guard, which he then tossed at Gracie¡¯s knees. ¡°Sign it, and you¡¯ll be free.¡±


    .


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    .

 Chapter 1026

    ?Chapter 1026:


    Tears streaked her face as she scanned the paper. ¡°These are¡­ divorce papers?¡± Her disbelief was evident. ¡°You are actually willing to let me go?¡±


    His answer was cold and final. ¡°My grudge is with your father. You¡¯re simply his daughter, not the one who deserves harsh punishment.¡±


    How Gracie managed to leave in the end remained a blur in her mind. The next morning, Brenna arrived at the office only to be startled by a bank alert¡ªthree hundred million had been transferred to her ount.


    A message soon followed from Hector. He had gone back to his country and had divorced Gracie.


    Staring at the message, Brenna sat in silence, unable to pin down what she felt now.


    She hadn¡¯t anticipated that they had already gotten a divorce. She had expected Hector to drag out his anger, keeping Gracie caught in his storm for years toe.


    Hector had left after divorcing Gracie, which meant that now, Gracie could continue to get closer to Ethan.


    Annoyance red within Brenna, though she couldn¡¯t pinpoint exactly what had sparked it.


    While she stewed in her thoughts, a text from Darwin buzzed onto her screen, inviting her out to lunch.


    A realization hit her then¡ªif Ethan would still be tangled up with Gracie, she owed it to herself to sever ties with him for good.


    She epted Darwin¡¯s invitation and made her way downstairs as the clock neared eleven-thirty in the morning.


    She and Darwin had lunch at the same restaurant asst time. When she returned from lunch, she found Ethan in her office, looking dispirited.


    Not missing a beat, Brenna slid into her chair, her demeanor cool, as if she hadn¡¯t heard anything about the divorce or Hector¡¯s departure. ¡°When did you get back?¡± she asked with practiced indifference.


    ¡°I just got back,¡± Ethan muttered, his voice heavy. ¡°Gracie and Hector got a divorce. On top of that, the Wilson Group copsed, and now, Gracie¡¯s drowning in her father¡¯s debts¡ªthree hundred billion.¡±


    ¡°Wow,¡± Brenna replied, genuine surprise flickering across her face. She hadn¡¯t imagined Hector would walk away only to leave Gracie shackled to enormous debts. Gracie would spend the rest of her life repaying them.


    An idea crossed Brenna¡¯s mind. ¡°Doesn¡¯t Gracie own shares in the Mitchell Group? If the debt¡¯s so overwhelming, she can sell the shares. Or if you feel indebted to her from the past, you could always step in and help her financially.¡± Brenna watched Ethan¡¯s face to see his reaction, wondering if he would use the Mitchell Group to help Gracie.


    ???? ???????? ??????¡¯???? ?????????????? ???????? ?????????¦Í??????£®??????


    Ethan¡¯s reply came quickly, with a tired shake of his head. ¡°Brenna, you know that¡¯s impossible. I¡¯ve run the numbers on selling those shares¡ªat best, she might get fifty billion. As for helping her pay the debt, I¡¯ve already repaid her tenfold for the money she supported me with back then.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s cold gaze fixed on his eyes. ¡°Do you feel like you owe her?¡±


    Unease shed across Ethan¡¯s face as he held her stare. ¡°It¡¯s not about that. I just can¡¯t help feeling like I failed her as a friend. I never came through to save the Wilson Group, even though I knew long ago it was beyond rescue. Rather than tell her the truth and crush her hope, I just avoided her. Was that cold of me?¡±


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1027

    ?Chapter 1027:


    It was now clear to Brenna that what he really wanted was reassurance.


    She said, ¡°No, you made the right choice. You don¡¯t owe her anything. You treated her like a friend, but she expected you to give up everything to help her. You shouldn¡¯t feel guilty. You didn¡¯t do anything wrong. If you¡¯d thrown the Mitchell Group at her problems, your employees would have paid the price. Why should their lives be affected to save hers?¡±


    Ethan nodded, agreeing with her reasoning, but Gracie had called and med him for everything.


    ¡°Gracie flew home to sort out her father¡¯s mess. Maybe she¡¯ll returnter, maybe not. When she left, she asked me to see her off, even hoping I would go with her to handle her father¡¯s funeral. I think she might want me to help her take revenge on Hector, so I refused her.¡±


    Opening up withplete honesty, Ethanid out the entire story for Brenna.


    ¡°You shouldn¡¯t get involved in their affairs anymore. Gracie is no match for Hector and never will be. She just wants to drag you into her mess.¡± Some of the chill in Brenna¡¯s attitude faded, her disapproval of Ethan easing slightly.


    ¡°Brenna, let¡¯s get back together.¡± Ethan¡¯s voice was firm. He was clearly serious about this.


    Brenna gazed at him, her thoughts swirling. She wasn¡¯t ready to dive back into their rtionship so quickly. With Gracie¡¯s recent departure still fresh, reconciling with Ethan felt hasty.


    She stayed quiet for a long time.


    Ethan¡¯s smile widened as he noted herck of outright refusal, taking it as a sign she was open to his suggestion. ¡°Perfect, it¡¯s decided. Let¡¯s have dinner together today.¡±


    Brenna let out a soft hum, a spark of contentment flickering within her.


    Ethan rose to his feet. ¡°I need to head out. I¡¯ve been off the grid for a bit, and thepany¡¯s got a mountain of work waiting for me. I¡¯lle by after work.¡± As he opened the door, he spotted Thiago leaning against the wall nearby, a file in one hand, scrolling through his phone with the other.


    Catching sight of Ethan, Thiago gave a nod and a grin. ¡°You two have patched things up?¡±


    Ethan, in a great mood, found Thiago¡¯s presence unusually pleasant. ¡°Yeah, we¡¯re good now.¡±


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    ¡°Congrattions,¡± Thiago replied, forcing a smile.


    Once Ethan was gone, Thiago handed Brenna a document. ¡°Sign this.¡± Without even ncing at it, Brenna signed. ¡°The robotic dog design¡¯s finally locked in. The military¡¯s been hounding us, fretting I wouldn¡¯t wrap up before the holidays.¡±


    With Thiago there, Brenna dialed Braeden to inform him that the design n had been sent over.


    True to his word, Ethan returned to Brenna¡¯s office after work, practically glowing as he said, ¡°Cleared all the piled-up paperwork in one afternoon.¡± Brenna was also in a good mood. ¡°Worried you¡¯d miss our date?¡±


    Ethan gave a low chuckle, sping her hand as they stepped into the private elevator together.


    Gracie, watching from a distance, felt her heart sink. She knew her chance with Ethan was gone. Earlier, when he had passed by, she had been right there, yet he had looked through her as if she didn¡¯t even exist.


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1028

    ?Chapter 1028:


    She decided to give up on him for good.


    Brenna soon slid into the passenger seat of Ethan¡¯s car, theirughter and chatter filling the ride. Before long, they pulled up at a seafood restaurant. Brenna¡¯s eyes narrowed slightly; this was the same restaurant where she had shed with Elsa before.


    Quite a coincidence.


    Still, she brushed it off and followed Ethan inside.


    Ethan had already reserved a table, and after he gave his name, a waiter ushered them to their seats.


    No sooner had they settled than a voice called out, ¡°Ethan!¡±


    Both Brenna and Ethan turned to see Rosie at a nearby table with three women ¡ª Isabe, Tina, and Judy.


    Brenna¡¯s curiosity piqued. Judy, sitting calmly with Isabe and Tina? Last she recalled, Judy had been at odds with them, their feud explosive.


    Yet here they were now, sitting together and chatting amicably.


    Rosie walked over before gesturing to herpanions. ¡°Everyone,e here. This is Mr. Mitchell from the Mitchell Group. I grew up with him, and we are quite close.¡± She was saying this mostly to Judy. After all, Isabe and Tina already knew who Ethan was.


    The four approached, and Ethan¡¯s brow creased, irritation flickering across his face. He had finally coaxed Brenna into a good mood for a meal with him, only to be interrupted by unweepany. Brenna wasn¡¯t fond of these people, either. She had nearly had a fight with Judy at Gracie¡¯s wee banquet before.


    She wondered how Rosie had managed to bring these people together, and it seemed like Judy had made peace with Isabe and Tina.


    ¡°Ethan, what a coincidence! You¡¯re here to dine, too. Mind if we join you? It¡¯s been ages since we caught upst time,¡± Rosie said. She believed that, considering their past, Ethan would agree to let her and herpanions join him.


    Ethan leveled a cold stare at Rosie and herpanions, his disdain clear. He couldn¡¯t fathom how Rosie kept such tastelesspany.


    ¡°Your taste in friends is slipping,¡± he said, his voiceced with scorn. He looked at Judy. ¡°She¡¯s rather¡­ bulky. Might need a wider seat.¡±


    He hadn¡¯t forgotten how Judy had stirred trouble for Brennast time. How could he tolerate such a person, let alone share a meal with her?


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    Judy¡¯s face darkened, her anger simmering. Had anyone else spoken those words, she would have fired back instantly. But this was Ethan, the wealthiest man alive, surrounded by constant security, with ties that stretched acrossmerce, government, the armed forces, and even the underworld. He was untouchable, capable of crushing anyone who crossed him.


    If she dared to hit Ethan, she¡¯d likely be dead before she could even touch him. She couldn¡¯t afford to offend him.


    Clenching her jaw, she swallowed her rage, silently hurling insults at him in her mind.


    Rosie, catching Judy¡¯s barely concealed frustration, grew anxious that she might say something reckless and offend Ethan.


    To defuse the tension, she said, ¡°Ethan, she¡¯s overweight, sure, but she has been putting in the effort to get healthier. She¡¯s not nearly as heavy as you¡¯re suggesting.¡±


    .


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    .

 Chapter 1029

    ?Chapter 1029:


    Rosie bristled at Ethan¡¯s sharp and dismissive words. ¡°Ethan, Judy¡¯s brother holds serious power in Shirie. Why don¡¯t we sit down for a chat? You could connect with her, and she might introduce you to him.¡±


    ¡°I have zero interest in meeting her brother. I¡¯m here to enjoy dinner with my girlfriend,¡± Ethan shot back bluntly, his tone making it clear the conversation was over.


    Rosie¡¯s cheeks flushed with embarrassment.


    Isabe and Tina traded quick nces before their eyes flicked to Judy, who, as expected, was seething. She mmed her hand on the table and snapped at Ethan, ¡°So what if you are the world¡¯s richest man? Do you think everyone¡¯s dying to know you? Don¡¯t tter yourself! I don¡¯t even want to know you.¡±


    ¡°Then get lost,¡± Ethan replied icily, shooting a cold look at Judy. Before she could respond, a bodyguard stepped in and began dragging Judy out.


    Judy, fuming, yanked herself free from the bodyguard¡¯s grip. ¡°I can leave on my own. Let go of me!¡± The bodyguard released her.


    Judy and the others walked away and returned to their seats. Judy, still livid, said to Rosie, ¡°How can he act like that? So rude! How does someone like him manage to grow his business so big? I just don¡¯t get it. If he doesn¡¯t want to eat with me, fine, but why be so rude to me?¡±


    Tina, all too familiar with Ethan¡¯s ruthless streak, had stayed silent earlier, dreading he¡¯d bring up the time she got kicked out naked and humiliate her again.


    Now, she still didn¡¯t dare speak against Ethan loudly since she had already offended him. The partnership between the Russell Corporation and the Mitchell Group had copsed entirely, shing the Russell Corporation¡¯s revenue by nearly half. To stave off financial ruin, they were forced to offload several subsidiaries. Tina knew another misstep with Ethan could be catastrophic for her and her family.


    The Mitchell Group¡¯s former deal with the Russell Corporation had been transferred to Jayceon¡¯s firm.


    Isabe also treaded carefully, mindful of Ethan¡¯s contempt for her due to her ties with Brenna. She avoided stirring conflict or speaking out against Ethan and Brenna.


    ¡°Miss Mendoza, don¡¯t let this get to you. You¡¯re now married to Denis; his family is one of the city¡¯s four elite families. Ethan will eventually need your alliance.¡±


    ¡°That happens, you can demand he make amends for today¡¯s incident,¡± Rosie said, attempting to console Judy after a moment¡¯s thought.


    ???????????????? ?????????? ???? g???????????????????????


    Judy gave a soft nod. ¡°Indeed. That time wille. The Wagner Group is growing swiftly and could probably surpass the Mitchell Group in a couple of years.¡±


    Ethan and Brenna, unable to hear their conversation, focused on their meal, which had just been served. Brenna nced at Ethan and asked, ¡°How did Rosie end up partnering with Judy?¡±


    Passing her a set of cutlery, Ethan replied, ¡°The Mendoza family¡¯s operations are dubious, so they needed a reputable front. Judy¡¯s brother picked Denis for that role. But Denis excels only at hostile acquisitions, not managing apany. Once the Mendozas realized this, they sidelined Denis as a figurehead CEO. The Wagner siblings then sought new allies and clicked with Rosie.¡±


    Brenna murmured in acknowledgment, ¡°I see. So, Denis is in a tough spot now?¡±


    Ethan smirked. ¡°It¡¯s not just Denis; the entire Wagner Group is faltering. The Mendoza siblings now pull the strings behind all the group¡¯spanies. Did you not know? Hector has been meeting with the Mendoza siblings oftentely. They must have some coboration.¡±


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1030

    ?Chapter 1030:


    Brenna shook her head. ¡°I had no idea.¡±


    She noticed something odd in Ethan¡¯s gaze, unsure if he knew about her and Hector¡¯s scheme against the Wilson Group.


    Still, she reasoned, even if he knew, he wouldn¡¯t act against her. The Wilson Group had been doomed at that time, with or without her scheme.


    Christmas soon arrived.


    At one in the afternoon, Brenna and her family attended the Harper Group¡¯s annual g, held at thepany¡¯s headquarters.


    They had just settled into the CEO¡¯s office when Rosie and Maxley strolled in, arm in arm. They greeted the Harpers warmly upon arrival.


    The Harpers, however, weren¡¯t very weing to Rosie, offering only perfunctory courtesy without warmth.


    Brenna stayed quiet, drifting over to therge window to gaze at the cityscape below.


    Rosie walked over, her voiceced with sarcasm. ¡°I didn¡¯t think you and Ethan would patch things up so fast. I figured his connection with Gracie would have ended your rtionship for good.¡±


    Her tone was sharp as she continued, ¡°I heard they dated a decade ago. Doesn¡¯t that get under your skin?¡±


    Brenna met Rosie¡¯s gaze, her expression unruffled. ¡°Didn¡¯t you also date Ethan before? That doesn¡¯t bother me, either.¡±


    Rosie was furious. She hadn¡¯t dated Ethan before. Her feelings for Ethan had only been a one-sided infatuation. ¡°Haven¡¯t you heard? Gracie showed up again this morning at the Mitchell Group¡¯s tenth-anniversary event, sitting right beside Ethan. Think he¡¯ll dump you for her again?¡±


    She thrust her phone at Brenna, who nced at the screen. The photo of Ethan and Gracie sitting together confirmed her im. Brenna pondered who had sent the photo to Rosie.


    Rosie beamed as she sent the photo to Brenna.


    After a quick look at the image, Brenna saw Gracie and Ethan sitting side by side, shing each other smiles, looking close.


    Without a second thought, she sent it to Ethan.


    ???????? ???????? ?????????????? ???? gal????¦Í??????©q?????


    A crowd of celebrities, industry leaders, and Shirie¡¯s high society had poured into the Mitchell Group¡¯s tenth-anniversary party.


    A money-countingpetition took center stage, disying a gleaming wall of cash. Winners could pocket whatever amount they managed to count correctly within a single minute.


    Anticipation buzzed in the air as nearly everyone wanted a shot at the challenge.


    Gracie, one of thepany¡¯s founders, would be co-hosting the event with Ethan.


    Festivities were still ramping up, and the celebration hadn¡¯t even officially begun. In just a few minutes, Ethan, as the CEO, would take the stage to deliver a speech.


    When his phone buzzed in his pocket, Ethan checked it and saw the photo Brenna had sent over.


    Wasting no time, he exined the situation to Brenna.


    ¡°Gracie dropped by unannounced this morning. As co-founders, we¡¯re bound to cross paths. I promise, nothing¡¯s going on. I¡¯ll exin everything clearly to you tomorrow. Love you, Brenna! I¡¯ll make sure to keep my distance from her.¡±


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1031

    ?Chapter 1031:


    Reading his response eased Brenna¡¯s mind. She knew that Ethan wasn¡¯t lying, so she let the matter go.


    Annualpany gatherings usually unfolded in a predictable fashion. The chairman and the CEO would give their speeches, achievements for the year were recapped, and high-performing staff members would receive their awards. Brenna never looked forward to these formalities. Even while handing out trophies to staff members, she kept her expression calm, treating it as just another task.


    The next day, as Brenna arrived at herpany, she encountered Alec at the lobby entrance.


    With an uneasy look, Alec blocked her way to stop her.


    ¡°Brenna, Gracie is back again. Aren¡¯t you afraid she¡¯ll take Ethan away from you? Yesterday, she wouldn¡¯t stop following Ethan and even got in his car. Doesn¡¯t that bother you? Honestly, I¡¯d be worried if I were you.¡±


    Brenna had her doubts about Alec¡¯s intentions. This made the fourth time he hade to her with the same gossipy tone, always sharing news meant to upset her.


    ¡°I already know that. Ethan left in a different car, didn¡¯t he? Gracie got a ride from Neville, so I don¡¯t see any problem with that,¡± replied Brenna, her gaze steady on Alec.


    A hint of panic shed in Alec¡¯s eyes before he forced augh. ¡°So you found out? Word is, Gracie is divorced now and might be making a move on Mr. Mitchell. You should watch out. Guys like Mr. Mitchell¡ªsessful, loyal, principled, and well-off¡ªdon¡¯te around every day. Any woman would want him. If you¡¯re not careful, Gracie might just steal him from you.¡±


    ¡°Alright, I understand.¡± Brenna gave a short nod, signaling that she wanted to end the conversation, and stepped past him toward the elevators.


    Just then, a voice called out, ¡°Ms. Harper!¡± The familiar click of heels echoed as Gracie walked over and stopped beside Brenna. She wore a bright, confident smile, looking nothing like the heartbroken woman Brenna remembered from their earlier encounters. Gracie seemed like apletely new person now.


    ¡°I have some news. I¡¯ll be working here from now on. Want to grab lunch together today?¡± Gracie spoke as if she didn¡¯t know that she and Brenna were rivals in love.


    Brenna kept her tone t. ¡°Have you sorted out all the Wilson Group¡¯s problems already?¡±


    Her tone was cool, as if it were a trivial matter that wouldn¡¯t affect Gracie at all. The smile faded from Gracie¡¯s face, and her resentment toward Brenna simmered beneath the surface. This was a sore spot for her; she had lost nearly everything and was drowning in debt because of the matter. The only way to get by was to work for the Mitchell Group at a modest sry. Without this job, she wouldn¡¯t even be able to make a living.


    ???????? ?????????????? ???????? ???? ??????????¦Í??????[.]??????


    Gracie said, ¡°We had to dere bankruptcy. My uncle is handling whatever¡¯s left of the Wilson Group. Now, I¡¯m officially starting as vice president here at the Mitchell Group. I hope we¡¯ll get along well from now on.¡±


    Brenna forced a faint smile. ¡°Is that so? Sounds like good news. Let¡¯s have lunch together.¡±


    Watching from a distance, Alec observed the two women chatting and shook his head. Under his breath, he grumbled, ¡°They act so friendly, but everyone knows they¡¯re rivals in love. So hypocritical.¡±


    Heading back to the security office, Alec dialed Rosie.


    Brenna and Gracie stepped into the elevator side by side. With a routine air, Brenna asked about the Wilson Group¡¯s downfall. She was taken aback when Gracie revealed that her father had been murdered right then and there.


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1032

    ?Chapter 1032:


    Tears spilled down Gracie¡¯s cheeks, filling the elevator with a heavy atmosphere. The employees who had overheard the exchange couldn¡¯t help but sigh, their hearts aching for Gracie¡¯s misfortune.


    Brenna observed Gracie calmly, thinking how shrewd she was. Most would bury such matters deep inside, but Gracie openly shared it with everyone, seemingly seeking their sympathy.


    Gracie¡¯s ability to turn herself into the victim genuinely surprised Brenna. For someone who had once enjoyed the life of a pampered heiress, Gracie certainly knew how to pull at people¡¯s heartstrings and gain sympathy. One by one, her coworkers began to see Gracie in a new, more sympathetic light. Now, if Brenna said anything remotely harsh to Gracie, it would instantly make her look like the viin.


    It was obvious now that Gracie was much more cunning than she let on.


    With the entire crowd siding with Gracie, Brenna realized she had to tread carefully. Instead of confronting Gracie directly, she decided to y it cool and asked, ¡°So, what exactly did your dad do to make your ex-husband retaliate like that?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s question shifted the mood. Curiosity reced the earlier sympathy, and suddenly everyone was waiting for Gracie¡¯s answer.


    Caught off guard by the question, Gracie hesitated, herposure slipping. Brenna wasn¡¯t known for being blunt, but today, her question nearly cornered her. The truth was, her father wasn¡¯t some innocent man; he¡¯d crossed a line and paid the price. But Gracie didn¡¯t want people to know that.


    When the silence stretched on, Brenna added, ¡°It¡¯s alright if you¡¯d rather not share.¡±


    This way, everyone could specte and investigate the matter on their own, making it more convincing.


    The elevator dinged at the fifty-eighth floor, and Brenna stepped out. The moment she reached her office, her phone buzzed; a lunch invitation from Darwin popped up.


    Brenna barely nced at the message before putting her phone aside.


    Her mood had already soured after running into Gracie, and the thought of seeing Gracie around the office and potentially cozying up to Ethan was enough to make her frustrated.


    Brenna found herself thinking about reasons to check on things on Ethan¡¯s end, just in case Gracie tried to get closer to him.


    Her mind was racing when Thiago walked in, a stack of documents in hand. He set them down on her desk.


    ?????????????? ?????????? ?????? ?????? ???? gal????¦Í??????£®??????


    ¡°Our proposal for the office building is ready; take a look,¡± he said. ¡°It¡¯s a Landmoor Decoration Company design.¡±


    Brenna flipped through the pages and quickly got drawn in, the details pushing every other thought out of her mind.


    The n was neatly organized,plete with visuals and technical specs.


    Thiago exined, ¡°We went through several revisions for this final version. See if there¡¯s anything you¡¯d like to change. If it all looks good, we¡¯ll wrap up this stage. Next week, we¡¯ll open the bidding for construction, and in a couple of years, we¡¯ll finally have our own office building.¡±


    A genuine smile broke through on Brenna¡¯s face. She¡¯d dreamed of a ce like this for years, and now, it was finallying together.


    She lingered over one page in particr, her eyes catching on a detail that needed a second look. Something about that part of the design just didn¡¯t sit right.


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1033

    ?Chapter 1033:


    Brenna pointed out a section of the floor n. ¡°This area here. I want to turn it into a sample workshop. Something big enough for us to handleponent assembly. We¡¯ll need to expand this space.¡±


    Thiago took a look and nodded. ¡°Makes sense. I¡¯ve got a meeting downstairs scheduled for noon with the designer, Lyndon Wilde. But if you want to make changes, we probably won¡¯t be able to confirm everything today. Why not join us in the meeting and share your thoughts?¡±


    She agreed, ¡°Sure, it¡¯ll be faster to sort things out face to face.¡±


    Before they could get into the specifics, a knock sounded at the door, and Lorna stepped in, bncing two cups of coffee. She handed one to each of them, then said, ¡°Gracie¡¯s here. She says there¡¯s something she needs to discuss with you, Ms. Harper.¡±


    Brenna couldn¡¯t begin to guess what Gracie wanted. Could it be about asking her to give up on Ethan?


    ¡°Did you ask her what it¡¯s about?¡± Brenna asked.


    Lorna¡¯s displeasure was barely concealed. ¡°I did. I asked her if she had an appointment and what this was about. Apparently, she wants an entire floor to herself for the Mitchell Group¡¯s overseas venture capital projects. Seriously, what does that have to do with us?¡±


    An icy look crossed Brenna¡¯s face. She met Thiago¡¯s eyes, both of them clearly fed up with Gracie¡¯s audacity.


    Thiago let out a derisive snort. ¡°Just tell her we are tied up and have ns outside thepany. If she really needs to talk, she can set an appointment in advance next time.¡±


    Lorna nodded, agreeing it was a wise decision.


    A nce at his watch told Thiago it was already half-past ten. His frustration showed. ¡°Let¡¯s just head over to my office. I can¡¯t believe Gracie thinks we¡¯ll just hand her a whole floor. And what was Ethan thinking, letting her waltz in?¡±


    Brenna gathered her paperwork and slipped out of the office. In the hallway, Lorna blocked Gracie¡¯s path, maintaining a professional smile. ¡°Please schedule an appointment next time. Sorry, my boss is unavable at the moment.¡±


    Spotting Brenna, Gracie called out, desperate to stop her, ¡°Miss Harper! Wait, I need to talk to you!¡±


    Unmoved, Brenna answered coolly, ¡°I have urgent matters to handle right now. We can talk some other time.¡±


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    Without breaking stride, she made her way straight to the elevator. Thiago quickly blocked Gracie¡¯s way, saying, ¡°Excuse us.¡± Then, he and Brenna entered the elevator together.


    Unwilling to give up, Gracie slipped into the elevator at thest second, speaking in a rush.


    ¡°Look, it¡¯s just a simple request. You¡¯re using two floors, and you don¡¯t even have three hundred people on staff. Surely you can spare one floor for me, right?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s face tightened with anger. Just because her team was smaller, she was expected to hand over an entire floor? That was absurd. She had already told Joe and Tommy to post job listings earlier in the week, and applications had been flooding in. Pretty soon, she would have more staff than she could fit. Honestly, she thought the current space was not enough for her.


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1034

    ?Chapter 1034:


    ¡°We signed a lease. If you want a floor, you¡¯ll need to pay the penalty. That¡¯s the only way we can vacate one floor for you,¡± Brenna said sharply.


    Gracie chuckled, though her smile didn¡¯t reach her eyes. ¡°Miss Harper, don¡¯t you think that¡¯s a bit out of line? You¡¯re using the building that belongs to the Mitchell Group. We have every right to take back any part of it whenever we choose. If I decide to reim both floors, you¡¯ll have no choice but to tell your team to pack up their things and go. It¡¯s not really up to you.¡±


    She didn¡¯t bother hiding her hostility. Every word she spoke carried a bite, and she made no effort to soften it. Brenna was left wondering what she¡¯d done to deserve such hostility from Gracie.


    ¡°Is that so? Then go get the contract. Pay the penalty, and I¡¯ll leave right away,¡± said Brenna, just as cold. ¡°Do you know why Ethan and I signed that lease in the first ce? With the way things were between us, we didn¡¯t even need one at that time.¡±


    Gracie¡¯s brows drew together. ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Because Ethan¡¯s mother, Elsa, couldn¡¯t stand me. She didn¡¯t just want me out of the building. She wanted me out of Ethan¡¯s life. So Ethan had hiswyer draw up a lease. I signed for both the 57th and 58th floors. It¡¯s for a hundred years. I can leave if I choose to. But if Ethan or the Mitchell Group tries to push me out, they have to pay a ten billion penalty. Learning that, his mother had no choice but to back off.¡±


    Brenna locked eyes with Gracie, and a slow, mocking smile tugged at her lips. Thiago wore the same expression. Did Gracie really think she could just push them around easily? She had just started working here and already wanted to throw her weight around? Who did she think she was?


    Gracie¡¯s face was tight with frustration, and that only made Brenna feel more satisfied. ¡°Even if Ethan wants me out, he still has to pay the penalty. Miss Wilson, that lease is legally binding.¡±


    ¡°You actually¡­¡± Gracie hesitated for a moment. ¡°Miss Harper, please understand. I need to lead this project on my own. I¡¯ll be hiring a full team. There¡¯s no space left on the other floors. Only yours can work.¡±


    Brenna wasn¡¯t moved. Why should she pack up and leave just because someone else needed room? Who did Gracie think she was? Living in someone else¡¯s building and already acting like she ran the ce?


    ¡°Let¡¯s stick to the contract,¡± Brenna said with finality.


    As the elevator doors slid open on the first floor, Brenna and Thiago stepped out. They had meant to dodge Gracie and head straight to Thiago¡¯s office. But after being cornered like that, they changed course and walked to a nearby restaurant instead.


    ???????? ???????? ?????????? ???????????????? ???? g????????¦Í??????£®??????


    Gracie, on the other hand, was fuming. Ethan had shut her down without hesitation earlier. ¡°If you want Brenna out, then talk to her yourself. I¡¯m not letting Brenna be wronged in any way.¡±


    He had gone so far as to sign a lease with an outrageous penalty just to make sure no one could have the chance to kick Brenna out.


    Gracie marched back to Ethan¡¯s office and pushed open the door, only to find the room empty.


    Frustrated, she turned to Rex and asked, ¡°Where¡¯s Ethan?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s in a meeting. Mr. Mitchell said not to be disturbed,¡± Rex replied firmly, making it clear that she shouldn¡¯t go to the meeting room to find Ethan. With no other option, Gracie returned to her office. If she couldn¡¯t pressure Brenna into giving up the floor, she¡¯d be sent to a branch office. That meant she wouldn¡¯t get to see Ethan every day. She couldn¡¯t understand why he¡¯d put her in such a situation.


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1035

    ?Chapter 1035:


    Ethan had recently acquired a small financialpany that needed someone to manage it. The team was still being put together. Ethan had nned to use this as a way to ce Gracie there, but she had no interest in leaving the current building. She wanted to be near Ethan. In her eyes, Brenna didn¡¯t even need both floors.


    Knowing she was dependent on Ethan¡¯s protection, she didn¡¯t dare offend him too much. She clutched her phone, tempted several times to call Ethan. But in the end, she couldn¡¯t resist and called, only to find his phone was off.


    She stared at the screen, her frustration mounting. In her mind, this was all Brenna¡¯s fault. No matter how long she sat and stewed, she couldn¡¯t figure out a single way to force Brenna out.


    While she wrestled with her thoughts, Brenna and Thiago sat in a quiet corner of a restaurant. They were going over revisions to a proposal, sipping orange juice as they talked. Around eleven, Lyndon arrived at the restaurant and joined them.


    Lyndon, a man in his thirties with a calm demeanor, walked in. ¡°Miss Harper. Mr. Moreno. Sorry to keep you waiting. I left as soon as I got the call, but the road was long, and traffic slowed me down.¡±


    ¡°No worries, Mr. Wilde. Have a seat and order whatever you like. Miss Harper¡¯s covering lunch today,¡± Thiago said as he passed Lyndon the menu with a smile.


    ¡°Excuse me, looks like the ce is full. Mind if I sit here and join you?¡± Darwin positioned himself by the table, offering a courteous smile as he asked Brenna if he could join her.


    He had spent the past several days trying to get Brenna to meet him¡ªlunch, dinner, a movie¡ªyet each time, she either turned him down politely or didn¡¯t respond at all. Still, his interest in her hadn¡¯t wavered. He meant to keep trying. Today, he¡¯d sent her another message, but she hadn¡¯t replied. Figuring he had nothing to lose, he took a chance and stopped by the restaurant, hoping their paths might cross.


    Surprisingly, he actually ran into her.


    Darwin felt lucky.


    Brenna was busy going over revision notes with Lyndon and hadn¡¯t realized someone was waiting beside her.


    When she finally nced up, Darwin¡¯s neatlyposed expression came into view.


    At that moment, Gracie¡¯s smug face shed through her thoughts, and she immediately assumed Ethan had been treating her well.


    ?????????????? ????????????? ???????? ???????????????? ???? ?????????¦Í??????£®??????


    Wanting to get back at Ethan, she said, ¡°Sure. There¡¯s room here. Sit wherever you like. I hope the food suits your taste.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not picky,¡± Darwin replied. Watching her immersed in a work conversation, he realized she hadn¡¯t been making excuses about being busy after all. She truly had her hands full. The frustration he¡¯d been feeling these past few days faded quickly.


    He introduced himself to Thiago and Lyndon with a handshake, then began eating.


    Once Brenna wrapped up her conversation with Lyndon, Darwin finally had a moment to speak to her. ¡°Brenna, want to y tennis with me tonight? I found a new tennis club that just opened. The ce is actually pretty nice.¡±


    ¡°Alright,¡± she replied, though her agreement was half-hearted. She nned to wait and see. If Ethan came to apologize and exin himself, she wouldn¡¯t go. If he stayed silent, she¡¯d go just to spite him.


    ¡°I¡¯ve got work to finish this afternoon, so I¡¯ll leave now,¡± Darwin said, settling the bill at the cashier before leaving. ¡°I¡¯lle pick you up when you¡¯re done for the day.¡±


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1036

    ?Chapter 1036:


    That afternoon at the office, Brenna waited for Ethan.


    To distract herself, she pulled up the stock market. The Mitchell Group¡¯s shares had been dipping steadily for a week. The daily drop was minor, but the overall loss had be hard to ignore.


    She examined the trend charts from the past month.


    Then, she looked into the Harper Group¡¯s performance. Their numbers had also declined recently, but there¡¯d been a solid recovery over thest few days, which gave her some relief.


    By the time the clock hit five, Ethan still hadn¡¯te to see her. Irritated, Brenna retrieved her phone and called him.


    He answered right away, though there was something odd in his tone. ¡°What¡¯s going on, Brenna?¡±


    ¡°Do you feel like ying tennis tonight?¡± she asked, using the question to test his willingness to meet.


    ¡°I¡¯m tied up with something else. Maybe next time. Things have been a bit messy on my endtely,¡± Ethan replied.


    In the background, she could hear Milton¡¯s voice on Ethan¡¯s end, apparently talking about stocks. She didn¡¯t push the issue. Instead, she said, ¡°Were you aware that Gracie tried to take one of my office floors?¡±


    After giving it some thought, she chose to bring the matter up. Misunderstandings, if left alone, had a way of turning into something far worse.


    ¡°I know. I told her not to go through with it, but she insisted. Did she actually go ahead and talk to you about it?¡± Ethan¡¯s tone carried a trace of irritation.


    Brenna replied, ¡°Yeah. But it¡¯s fine. I handled it. Since you¡¯re busy and can¡¯t y tennis, let¡¯s forget it.¡±


    After ending the call, her mood lifted slightly.


    Although she had no intention of leading Darwin on, she figured it was better to give him a proper refusal. So, she got ready to meet him at the tennis court. Just then, a knock sounded at the door, and Thiago stepped in.


    ¡°You¡¯re really going to y tennis?¡±


    Brenna gave a small shrug, looking resigned. ¡°Yeah. I¡¯m nning to talk to him and make things clear.¡±


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    Thiago gave a shortugh. ¡°That might get awkward if it¡¯s just the two of you. Why not make it a group outing? Ellie and I can tag along.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s actually perfect,¡± Brenna said, smiling. ¡°I¡¯ll call Ernst, too. No harm having more people around.¡±


    She picked up her phone and began making calls. She had expected Ernst to be swamped, but he answered right away. Surprisingly, he had nothing scheduled and said he¡¯de.


    He had even offered to bring Lilith.


    Later, Brenna waited by the building¡¯s entrance until Darwin¡¯s car pulled up. Once Brenna and Darwin reached the club, they saw Thiago, Ellie, Patrick, Ernst, and Lilith arriving not long after.


    Darwin looked around at the growing group, clearly a bit displeased. Leaning close to Brenna, he lowered his voice. ¡°You didn¡¯t mention we¡¯d be joined by a crowd.¡±


    ¡°I figured it might be too quiet with just us,¡± Brenna replied lightly. ¡°I didn¡¯t think you¡¯d mind.¡±


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1037

    ?Chapter 1037:


    Darwin couldn¡¯t bring himself to say he was displeased. Forcing a smile, he said, ¡°No, of course not. It¡¯s great, actually. A big group¡¯s more fun. We could even split into teams. I¡¯m all for it.¡±


    ¡°Exactly,¡± she said with a nod. ¡°We¡¯re all friends here.¡±


    Darwin smiled, but inside, he felt deted. He¡¯d been nning to finally confess his feelings to her, but with all these people around, he was unable to do that. Getting Brenna toe out with him hadn¡¯t been easy. Who knew when he¡¯d get another chance?


    Aside from Darwin, it was everyone else¡¯s first time at this ce. The newly opened tennis center boasted state-of-the-art facilities, matching the standards of pro-level tournaments.


    Brenna was impressed the moment she walked through the doors. The lobby was lined with shelves of tennis rackets and balls, racks of sportswear for both men and women, and a full range of protective gear and shoes. Everything looked high-end.


    The staff greeted them with enthusiasm and eagerly showcased the club¡¯s offerings. They highlighted their premium VIP membership, which came in at two million a year. It included unlimited court ess, a full set of tennis gear, twoplete outfits, and evenundry and maintenance services for the sportswear.


    Members also had ess to internalpetitions at no extra cost, along with the chance to meet and connect with other tennis enthusiasts.


    The most tempting thing was the promotion: Sign up for a one-year membership and get an extra six months free. The staff made a strong pitch, clearly hoping Brenna would join.


    But Brenna wasn¡¯t in a rush. She wanted to test the ce out first. No sense in paying upfront if she didn¡¯t end up liking it.


    She didn¡¯t think twice and treated the whole group to a game.


    As they prepared to head to the courts, a staff member muttered just loud enough to be heard, ¡°A gentleman earlier bought four memberships and walked away with a bunch of high-end gifts.¡±


    Everyone ignored the remark; it sounded like a typical sales tactic.


    They gathered their gear and followed the staff into the club. The courts were already buzzing with activity, most of them upied by yers mid-game or warming up.


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    On the way to the changing rooms, Brenna nearly walked straight into someone ¡ª a tall man in a gray tracksuit with a green racket in hand.


    ¡°Brenna!¡± the man eximed in surprise.


    Brenna looked up and frowned. It was Ethan.


    Feeling angry, she rolled her eyes and asked, ¡°Didn¡¯t you say you were busy? Why are you here ying tennis?¡±


    Ethan led her a few steps aside and pointed toward a middle-aged man who had just stepped out of the changing room. ¡°A client asked to meet here, so I came. It wasn¡¯t nned.¡±


    ¡°Ethan!¡± Gracie, now dressed in a sleek purple sports outfit with a matching racket in hand, called out and approached. The outfit hugged her figure, making her look striking.


    When she saw Brenna, her smile wavered, but it didn¡¯t take long for her to recover. She saw the perfect chance to upset Brenna now. Ethan had turned down tennis with Brenna, yet here he was with her instead.


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1038

    ?Chapter 1038:


    If anything could make Brenna angry, this was it.


    ¡°Miss Harper, you¡¯re here, too.¡± Gracie¡¯s tone was light and cheerful, as if she had never been rejected by Brenna this morning. ¡°This club¡¯s amazing. Ethan just bought me a one-year premium VIP membership. Did you get one? You really should. The facilities and services here are remarkable!¡±


    She went on and on about everything the club had to offer. She even stood close to Ethan like she was his girlfriend. And in doing so, she made Brenna look like an outsider.


    Just then, Darwin walked over. He knew Ethan was Brenna¡¯s ex, and from the way they looked at each other now, it was obvious their feelings hadn¡¯t burned outpletely. He could tell Brenna was holding back her frustration. Figuring she could use some help, he stepped in without hesitation.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go change. Everyone else is already inside,¡± he said to Brenna.


    ¡°Okay.¡± Brenna pulled her gaze away from Ethan and rested her hand lightly on Darwin¡¯s arm as they walked away.


    Ethan stood still, watching them go. Regret crept in. He realized he¡¯d made a mistake again. If he had known Brenna would be here, he wouldn¡¯t have brought Gracie with him.


    Watching Brenna disappear with another man, Gracie felt a satisfaction. Still, she feigned a hurt expression and asked, ¡°Ethan, did I say something wrong?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Ethan said tly.


    He believed he was to me for this situation.


    Just then, the middle-aged man approached them. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, who was that youngdy? She¡¯s quite attractive. Any chance you could introduce us?¡± Ethan knew exactly what the man was after and bluntly said, ¡°That¡¯s my girlfriend. She¡¯s upset because I showed up here with Gracie. Mr. Chapman, give me a moment to¡­¡±


    ¡°go andfort her. Otherwise, I¡¯ll be in serious trouble.¡± Waldo Chapmanughed heartily. ¡°Didn¡¯t take you for the type to be scared of your woman, Mr. Mitchell. But by all means, go ahead.¡±


    Gracie¡¯s smile faltered. Ethan had just introduced Brenna as his girlfriend.


    It infuriated her.


    ???????? ???????? ????????????????????????


    Ethan walked back into the changing area and waited for Brenna to emerge from the women¡¯s changing room.


    When Brenna came out, he said lightly, ¡°Let¡¯s team up for a mixed doubles match with Mr. Chapman.¡±


    Brenna shot him a re but said nothing.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t partner with me, I¡¯ll have to team up with Gracie,¡± he added, clearly fishing for a reaction.


    Then, he reached for her hand. She flicked her wrist to shake him off, but his grip was steady. She ended up letting him lead her out.


    She wasn¡¯t about to give Gracie the satisfaction of teaming up with Ethan anyway.


    Brenna walked onto the tennis court and immediately noticed Gracie talking to Waldo. Waldo¡¯s lecherous gaze kept drifting toward Gracie¡¯s chest, his intentions tantly obvious. Even Brenna felt a surge of anger just watching. Shaking her head, Brenna turned to Ethan, her voice thick with irritation. ¡°That¡¯s who you¡¯re partnering with? Just look at him. You are a CEO, yet you have to deal with someone like him?¡±


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1039

    ?Chapter 1039:


    Ethan gave a shrug. ¡°He¡¯s not just anybody in Plomond. When he gets involved in something, everyone takes notice. He has got his sights set on a big real estate project in Shirie and wants to work with me. Are you familiar with NextDoor Homes?¡±


    Brenna gave a short nod. ¡°Who hasn¡¯t heard of them? NextDoor Homes is a powerhouse in real estate in the country. They even have their hands in retail.¡± Her gaze flicked over to Waldo, realization dawning on her. ¡°Wait. Is he the president of NextDoor Homes? He¡¯s Waldo Chapman?¡±


    With a quiet sound of confirmation, Ethan responded, ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s him. I never really dabbled in real estate or retail before, but now, he¡¯s offering a partnership, and my portfolio could use some growth.¡±


    Thinking about the wild swings she had seen in the Mitchell Group¡¯s stock price, Brenna asked, ¡°Have you been losing money in the stock markettely? Are you in a hurry to recover funds?¡±


    Ethan passed Brenna a tennis racket and gestured toward Waldo across the court with his own.


    He then answered, ¡°You¡¯re right. You¡¯ve got a head for finance. Maybe you can help me out with some advice?¡±


    Brenna responded casually, ¡°Sure. I¡¯ll take a look once I¡¯m home.¡±


    Meanwhile, on the far side of the court, Gracie pulled her jacket up higher, doing her best to block Waldo¡¯s wandering eyes.


    ¡°So, you¡¯re Gracie Wilson? What a beautiful name. Miss Wilson, are you aware of how stunning you truly are? Not a single woman here holds a candle to you. Your beauty is in a league of its own. Would you allow me the pleasure of taking you to dinner this evening?¡±


    Waldo snatched his phone from a chair nearby and enthusiastically held it out to Gracie, showing her his number. ¡°Miss Wilson, let¡¯s stay in touch! What¡¯s your number? We can swap contact details.¡± Waldo had done his homework on Gracie beforeing here. She was a fallen heiress, her family¡¯s wealth drained, her parents gone, and the weight of their debts resting squarely on her shoulders. She appeared to be clinging to Ethan, though he didn¡¯t seem the least bit invested in her.


    Waldo could not help feeling sorry for Gracie, and a question had lingered in his mind before. He had wondered why Ethan bothered showing her any kindness at all. Meeting her face-to-face answered that question right away. Gracie had a quiet beauty that drew people in, and there was a delicate sadness about her that made it hard to look away.


    Every moment around Waldo made Gracie sick, but she understood she had to tread carefully around him. With Ethan keeping his distance from her, she could not hope for his protection if anything went wrong.


    ???????? ???????????????? ???? ????????????????????????


    Yet, she used to live a pampered life and wasn¡¯t used to such a situation. Apart from Hector, no one had ever dared treat her like this before.


    If she still had her backing, she would have pped Waldo by now. Seeing his lecherous eyes made her feel sick. ¡°Excuse me, I¡¯m not feeling well. I need to go to the restroom,¡± she said, escaping the ce somewhat awkwardly.


    Watching her leave, Waldo felt a spark of annoyance but quickly brushed it aside. Beautiful women always carried a bit of attitude, and he believed that time would eventually prove his worth to her.


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 Chapter 1040

    ?Chapter 1040:


    Ethan watched everything with a frown, unimpressed by Waldo¡¯s behavior. Although he felt nothing more than indifference toward Gracie, he could not ignore her being harassed.


    From the sidelines, Brenna shared Ethan¡¯s disapproval. Seeing Waldo¡¯s shameless flirting made her want to teach him a lesson.


    Brenna raised her voice and called out to Waldo, holding up a tennis ball with a challenging grin, ¡°How about a game, Mr. Chapman?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s invitation pleased Waldo. ¡°Of course,¡± he replied with a smile.


    He already had his racket in hand and eyed Brenna with quiet confidence. He was sure she would be no match for his skills. After all, he had plenty of practice and even a few trophies to his name.


    A flicker of concern crossed his mind. He hoped he would not identally injure her by ying too aggressively, since that would not be considered chivalrous.


    Brenna stood apart from Gracie with her cool confidence. Waldo had no idea about her real identity. He didn¡¯t know that, like Rosie, Brenna was also Ernst¡¯s¡­


    ¡­sister, so he simply assumed Brenna was some college student Ethan was messing around with.


    Brenna imed the first serve, stepping into position without giving Waldo a second to prepare. With a sharp, practiced swing, she sent the ball flying andnded it squarely on Waldo¡¯s nose.


    Waldo was momentarily stunned, his eyebrow furrowed. He quickly realized Brenna was a highly skilled tennis yer with expert training.


    ¡°Miss Harper, you¡¯ve got some real talent on the court,¡± Waldo remarked. He was more curious than upset and was eager to chat with his formidable new opponent.


    ¡°You might want to be more careful next time,¡± said Waldo, rubbing his nose, still clueless that Brenna had meant to hit him from the start.


    From the far end of the court, Brenna called out, her voice casual, ¡°That was a mistake earlier. I¡¯m new at this, so I barely know what I¡¯m doing. Anyway, Mr. Wilde, hope you¡¯re alright.¡±


    Nearby, Ethan sat back on a bench, sipping from his water bottle, eyes unreadable, looking like he hadn¡¯t seen a thing.


    Ernst and Lilith, busy on the court next to theirs, exchanged a knowing look. It was obvious even to them that Brenna had done that on purpose, but they didn¡¯t say anything about it and began warming up.


    ???????????? ?????????? ???? ??????????¦Í?????????????


    Lilith had picked up tennis a while ago, and she could hardly keep up with Ernst. He moved with the ease of someone who¡¯d been coached for years and had medals to prove it, while Lilith managed only average shots.


    Slowing his pace, Ernst sent the ball gently back, even sharing a few tips with Lilith.


    Meanwhile, Waldo served with friendly intent, but Brenna, who appeared to be a novice, was actually quite skilled, as Waldo had noticed earlier. Her seemingly slow movements were highly effective, each smash urately targeting different parts of Waldo¡¯s body.


    In less than half an hour, Waldo had been hit about eight times.


    Thest hit hadnded heavily on his sensitive area.


    Brenna dropped her racket with a flourish and strode over to the shaded rest area, looking more refreshed than ever.


    Ethan met Brenna¡¯s gaze. ¡°I¡¯ll go clean up the mess for you.¡±


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 Chapter 1041

    ?Chapter 1041:


    Gracie had already emerged from the restroom and had been watching from a distance. Each time Brenna hit Waldo, Gracie couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of satisfaction. Waldo deserved that.


    Feeling exhausted, Lilith made her way to Brenna¡¯s side, pouring some lemon water before settling in for a chat.


    Not long after, Lilith excused herself, and Gracie stepped up to y against Ernst. She moved with surprising finesse, nearly matching Ernst¡¯s level. Their rallies grew more spirited by the minute.


    Watching Gracie y, Waldo found himself drawn to her. He thought he should make an effort to win her over.


    A smirk crossed Lilith¡¯s face. ¡°You really didn¡¯t hold back. Thatst hit nearly killed him,¡± said Lilith, shaking her head.


    ¡°I honestly can¡¯t stand the guy,¡± said Brenna. ¡°He knows Gracie works as the vice president at the Mitchell Group, but that didn¡¯t stop him from making a move on her. It¡¯s like he doesn¡¯t care about Ethan at all.¡±


    No sympathy appeared in Lilith¡¯s eyes. ¡°Waldo definitely deserved it. But Gracie¡¯s supposed to be your rival in love, right? Why go out of your way for her? That¡¯s not like you.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t do that for her. It¡¯s just that Waldo rubs me the wrong way. If he¡¯s desperate to meet women, he can hang out at a bar. He acts like he¡¯s on the hunt as soon as he sets foot here, and I¡¯ve had enough of it.¡± Brenna swirled her ss of lemon water, took a sip, then set it aside. ¡°Come on, let¡¯s have a match.¡±


    Switching courts, Brenna and Lilith found themselves beside Thiago and Ellie, who were locked in a lively rally.


    Not far away, Darwin sat by himself, silently cursing his luck. Every time he tried to get close to Brenna, Ethan was always around.


    Catching sight of Brenna walking over, Darwin sprang to his feet, racket in hand. ¡°Care for a game, Miss Harper?¡± he asked, shing a hopeful grin.


    Lilith said, ¡°I¡¯ll let you two have the court. My arms are dead tired. I¡¯ll just watch from the sidelines.¡±


    Darwin appreciated Lilith¡¯s gesture and thanked her.


    Brenna was surprised to find that Darwin¡¯s tennis skills were also quite great. His movements were professional, matching Brenna¡¯s level. They yed a thrilling match.


    ???????? ?????????????? ?????????? ?????????? ???? ??????????¦Í?????????????


    After their rally, Darwin wiped his brow and smiled at Brenna. ¡°Miss Harper, this ce has a great vibe. What do you say we make this a regr thing? I could even set you up with a membership,¡± he said, unable to hide the admiration in his eyes. In his mind, Brenna was one of a kind. Talented with numbers, inventive with machines, and now proving herself on the tennis court. He couldn¡¯t help but feel a little out of his league.


    Ethan, having just wrapped up his own match against Waldo, had been watching Brenna y for a while.


    ¡°Brenna,¡± Ethan said as he walked over with a gentle demeanor. He knew about Brenna¡¯s connection to Darwin and suspected she hadn¡¯t had the chance to exin things to him yet.


    He figured it would be best if he stepped in.


    ¡°Mr. Atkinson,¡± Ethan said to Darwin with a nod, reaching out his hand for a handshake.


    .


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    .

 Chapter 1042

    ?Chapter 1042:


    Memories of their tense dinner encounterst time shed through Darwin¡¯s mind, but he forced a polite smile and epted the handshake anyway.


    Before Darwin could make small talk, Ethan got straight to the point. ¡°I should let you know, Mr. Atkinson, Brenna and I have reconciled. We¡¯re together now, so I¡¯d appreciate it if you stopped pursuing her.¡±


    Darwin met Ethan¡¯s eyes, refusing to give up. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, as long as Brenna isn¡¯t married, I have the right to pursue her. I mean, who wouldn¡¯t admire someone like her?¡±


    He wasn¡¯t going to give up easily.


    In fact, he quietly believed he was the better match for Brenna, far more suited to her than Ethan could ever be.


    Gracie walked over, and Waldo trailed behind, his eyes glued to her from behind. No matter where she went, he stuck close, making her feel increasingly ufortable.


    ¡°Ethan, Mr. Atkinson does have a point. Since Miss Harper isn¡¯t married yet, anyone can pursue her,¡± Gracie¡¯s words carried a message of her own, reminding Ethan that she had every right to pursue him until he was married.


    Ethan¡¯s opinion of Darwin had dropped to its lowest point.


    Soon, Ernst and Lilith approached, and Ernst suggested, ¡°It¡¯s gettingte. Why don¡¯t we all grab something to eat?¡±


    He turned to Brenna. ¡°Would you prefer for Ethan to take you home, or should I drive you instead?¡±


    Waldo raised an eyebrow. ¡°Why would you want to drive her home?¡±


    Ernstughed. ¡°Brenna¡¯s my sister. She went missing when she was little, and we just reunited recently.¡±


    Waldo¡¯s expression shifted in realization. ¡°That exins a lot. No wonder Miss Harper stands out the way she does. Mr. Mitchell clearly values her. She¡¯s the daughter of the Harper family.¡±


    ¡°Allow me to formally introduce myself.¡± Waldo pulled a business card from his jacket and offered it to Brenna with both hands. Out of politeness, and seeing how respectfully Ernst treated Waldo, Brenna took it.


    Waldo then extended his hand for a handshake, his face beaming with a smile that made it hard to refuse.


    Not wanting to touch him, Brenna reached for Ethan¡¯s hand instead. ¡°I¡¯m starving. Let¡¯s go find something to eat now.¡±


    ?????????????? ?????????? ???? ??????????¦Í??????©q?????


    To ease the awkwardness, Ernst shook hands with Waldo. ¡°She¡¯s always been pampered. Don¡¯t take her gesture to heart.¡±


    Waldoughed with gusto. ¡°That¡¯s alright. She¡¯s young, being a little spoiled and shy is only natural. You should help her get used to these kinds of gatherings, Mr. Harper.¡±


    They ended up picking a nearby restaurant and settling at a table for dinner. Brenna naturally took the seat beside Ethan, while Gracie quickly imed the chair on his other side.


    Waldo sat down beside Gracie, which immediately made her ufortable. She nced around the table, clearly looking for a different spot.


    The table was a wide round one, built to seat tenfortably. Gracie noticed an open spot between Lilith and Darwin and quietly shifted to that seat. Waldo quickly realized that Gracie was intentionally distancing herself from him. Even in her current situation, she carried herself with an air of coldness that irritated him. It only made him more determined to win her over.


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1043

    ?Chapter 1043:


    After dinner, as everyone exited the restaurant, Brenna turned to Darwin and said, ¡°You should head back by yourself. I¡¯ll leave with Ethan. Sorry about today, but I don¡¯t think we¡¯re a good match.¡±


    Her words were direct, and Darwin understood the message¡ªher heart was still with Ethan. Even so, she wasn¡¯t married yet, which meant he could still pursue her.


    ¡°I see, Miss Harper. I hope we can still be friends,¡± Darwin replied, maintaining a respectful tone.


    Brenna gave a nod. ¡°Of course. If I ever need assistance, I may still reach out to you.¡±


    After all, Darwin¡¯s family had influential ties that could benefit both her and the Harpers if needed.


    Ernst approached and shook Darwin¡¯s hand to say goodbye.


    After that, Darwin departed, and Brenna made her way to Ethan¡¯s car.


    She and Gracie reached for the front passenger door at the same time. Ernst found Gracie¡¯s behavior rather thoughtless. Wasn¡¯t itmon sense that a man¡¯s front passenger seat was meant for his girlfriend?


    Gracie understood that perfectly well, but she didn¡¯t care. ¡°I got to the door first,¡± she said tly.


    Brenna wasn¡¯t about to let her have her way. She could see that Gracie was trying to make her look petty and force Ethan into an awkward spot. ¡°I¡¯m his girlfriend. The front seat¡¯s mine. You can ride in the back.¡±


    Without a change in expression, Ethan gently moved Gracie aside, took hold of the door handle, and positioned himself between them. He turned to Brenna and said, ¡°You sit in front.¡±


    Brenna cast a smug nce at Gracie and slipped into the seat without a word. Ethan shut the door, then looked at Gracie. ¡°Get in the back. I¡¯ll drop you off first. Brenna and I live in the same area, so we¡¯ll head home together.¡±


    Gracie felt the sting immediately. At that moment, it was painfully clear just how little she mattered to himpared to Brenna.


    She stood by the car for a while, unwilling to get in. She wanted to sit in the front, wanted Ethan to care about her more.


    Waldo had been observing the scene unfold and found it highly entertaining. He strolled over and casually offered Gracie an escape. ¡°Miss Wilson, how about I give you a ride? We might be heading in the same direction.¡±


    ???????????? ???????????? ???? ??????????????????£®??????


    Seeing Waldo¡¯s unpleasant face, Gracie no longer had time to feel sad. She quickly got into the back seat of Ethan¡¯s car and closed the door. Only then did she feel safe. She rolled down the window and said to Waldo politely, ¡°No, thank you.¡±


    ¡°Another time, then,¡± Waldo replied with a smile, though inside, he seethed at the rejection.


    In Vand, he was considered a prominent figure, yet Gracie dared to reject him like that. How outrageous.


    From the moment Gracie set foot on the tennis court, she felt nothing but contempt for Waldo.


    Yet, she knew her reality¡ªonce the powerful Wilson family¡¯s daughter, she was now buried in debt, her privileged past stripped away.


    She had be an outcast. If Ethan hadn¡¯t recalled that minor kindness she had once extended and taken care of her, if not for that token stake in hispany offered out of gratitude, she might well have ended up on the street. Ethan¡¯spany was facing some challenges now, and the only way forward meant forging a partnership with Waldo to weather the storm.


    .


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    .

 Chapter 1044

    ?Chapter 1044:


    Whatever her personal feelings toward Waldo, Gracie knew better than to jeopardize Ethan¡¯s business.


    For Ethan¡¯s sake, she swallowed her pride and endured the ordeal.


    As the car sped away from the venue, Gracie¡¯s jaw tightened. She muttered under her breath, ¡°I can¡¯t stand that man. Next time you do business with him, leave me out of it.¡±


    Ethan met herint with a shrug, not bothered by her anger nor particrly sympathetic. ¡°I told you not toe with me. You insisted. Waldo¡¯s always been this way. Best if you just steer clear.¡±


    Catching her reflection in the rearview, Ethan saw Gracie¡¯s displeased expression, lips pressed tight as she red at the passing scenery.


    She had hoped Ethan wouldfort her, but his words only implied she had brought Waldo¡¯s harassment upon herself.


    Annoyance shed in Gracie¡¯s eyes as she nced at Brenna. If Brenna hadn¡¯t been around, perhaps Ethan would have sided with her.


    Sensing her frustration, Ethan made a half-hearted attempt to lift her mood. ¡°Lighten up. Brenna helped you teach him a lesson, didn¡¯t she?¡±


    Brenna, noticing Gracie¡¯s obvious sulk, couldn¡¯t help but feel Gracie was angling for Ethan¡¯s attention, disregarding her presence.


    Even so, Brenna let the matter slide; after all, Gracie had not gotten anything she wanted from Ethan today.


    Ethan barely reacted, offering neither reassurance nor the smallest gesture offort.


    A quiet sense of triumph washed over Brenna. Reminding herself to rise above the drama, she decided there was no point in sparring with Gracie. Instead, she tried tofort Gracie.


    ¡°I honestly couldn¡¯t stand the way Waldo was pestering you earlier,¡± Brenna said. ¡°So I aimed a few serves his way on purpose. Did you catch his expression when I hit him? Absolutely priceless!¡±


    Atst, augh escaped Gracie. She admitted she¡¯d been rooting for every ball Brenna sent Waldo¡¯s way, secretly celebrating his pain.


    ¡°I appreciate it,¡± Gracie replied, though she couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that Brenna was rubbing it in, subtly mocking her for being unable to deal with Waldo.


    ???????????????????? ???? ?????????¦Í??????[?]??????


    That made her angry. As the car pulled up to her building, Gracie turned to Ethan, saying, ¡°Thank you for letting me crash at your ce, Eth. You even swapped out all the furniture because you knew I¡¯m obsessed with cleanliness. That must have thrown your schedule off for days. I¡¯m sorry for being so much trouble.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s gaze flicked to Brenna, noticing her displeasure. With a roll of her eyes, Brenna turned to stare out the window, pretending not to hear Gracie¡¯s words. The moreposed Brenna appeared, the clearer it was that she was fuming inside.


    Ethan had realized through his recent fight with Brenna that she had her limits, and he worried she might break up with him again over this.


    Turning to Gracie, Ethan said, ¡°Don¡¯t stress over it. I signed the apartment over to you. It is yours now, not mine. You don¡¯t owe me a thing, and you can stay as long as you want.¡±


    While most people would have celebrated the gift of a home, free from the fear of eviction, Gracie saw things in a very different light.


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1045

    ?Chapter 1045:


    To her, it felt as if Ethan was distancing himself from her by doing this. ¡°Ethan, how can I possibly ept this ce?¡± she said. ¡°That ce is your home. Every corner still carries memories of you.¡±


    Her words weren¡¯t just for Ethan; she also wanted Brenna to feel the sting, to know she was staying where Ethan had once lived.


    Annoyance flickered across Ethan¡¯s face. ¡°We¡¯ve arrived at your ce. Time for you to get out of the car.¡±


    Even though Gracie had helped him before, he couldn¡¯t stand her emotional maniption.


    Picking up on his displeasure, Gracie felt sorrow well up inside. She just couldn¡¯t grasp how everything between them had shifted so soon. Not long ago, Ethan had weed her warmly, but now, he seemed cold toward her.


    She knew she couldn¡¯t let things keep going this way. She had to find a way to make Ethan care about her again.


    After Gracie exited the vehicle, Ethan also got out and lingered by the curb, saying to her, ¡°Make sure you get some rest.¡± Then, he got back inside the car and drove away.


    Brenna¡¯s silence hung heavy, her face cold.


    Noticing that, Ethan finally broke the quiet, trying to clear the air. ¡°Brenna, please don¡¯t read too much into this. I gave her that ce just because I don¡¯t want to have any ties to her because of it. She¡¯s had it roughtely. Just don¡¯t take her words and gestures to heart.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s tone was sharp. ¡°Is that sympathy I hear from you?¡±


    Ethan pressed his hand to his forehead,pletely aware she was simmering with jealousy, unable to stomach any of his gentle gestures toward Gracie. ¡°I¡¯m telling you, I don¡¯t feel anything for her. Don¡¯t get the wrong idea, Brenna. I spoke to her while you were present. That means I don¡¯t care about her,¡± he said.


    Brenna shot him a sidelong nce, still feeling displeased. ¡°I don¡¯t think so.¡±


    The car soon rolled to a halt in front of her family¡¯s home. Without a word, Brenna slipped out of the car, leaving Ethan to catch up in a hurry. ¡°Brenna, I promise, she means nothing to me. Frankly, I dislike her a little. I know she was doing all that just to get my sympathy. Trust me, I see right through her. I¡¯ll only treat her as a colleague. You have my word.¡±


    Her tone stayed cool as frost. ¡°You might believe that, but I doubt she does. She¡¯s lost everything, and you¡¯re all she¡¯s got left. She won¡¯t give up on you easily.¡±


    Hearing that, Ethan believed that Brenna might not be as angry as earlier. Relief washed over him. ¡°I won¡¯t let her get any chance to get close to me.¡±


    ???????????????? ?????????????? ???? ?????????????????©q?????


    As Brenna entered the house, she saw Ernst. He had just returned and was talking with Giselle. From the window, Giselle had spotted Ethan¡¯s car earlier, and her mood was far from good. Ernst, meanwhile, tried to calm her down and keep her from meddling.


    ¡°So you two are back together again?¡± Giselle asked Brenna, clearly angry. Brenna gave a soft nod, dropped onto the couch, and tugged her mother down to sit beside her. ¡°Yeah. Are you mad at me because of this?¡±


    Giselle let out a sigh that held both affection and resignation. She didn¡¯t love the situation, but she had no ns to make trouble for her daughter.


    ¡°I am not mad; I only want you to be happy.¡±


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1046

    ?Chapter 1046:


    Elsewhere, Gracie pushed open her apartment door to nothing but silence. Emptiness pressed in on her from every side. Her father was gone, murdered by Hector, and revenge felt far beyond her reach. Ethan, the man she loved, seemed to be slipping away with each passing day. It left her feeling broken and hopeless. More than oncetely, she had stared out the window and wondered what it would feel like to just give up and end everything.


    Still, a stubborn me burned inside her. She longed to make Hector pay and to win Ethan¡¯s love. She couldn¡¯t just die.


    Restless nights became routine, haunted by these thoughts. Only wine and sleeping pills could bring her some rest.


    She wandered to the wine rack, pulled out a bottle of red, and quickly removed the cork before filling her ss. The first ss disappeared quickly, followed by another. Before long, only a little remained in the bottle, but sleep still wouldn¡¯te.


    Just then, the shrill ring of her phone startled her, echoing through the apartment. Inside, hope fluttered. Maybe Ethan was calling her.


    She reached for the phone, clinging to that tiny hope, but the screen showed only an unfamiliar number.


    Deciding to take out her frustrations on this stranger, she answered the call on impulse.


    ¡°Who is this?¡± she askedzily, already nning tosh out if the person on the other end annoyed her.


    A woman¡¯s voice drifted through the speaker. ¡°Is this Gracie Wilson? I¡¯m Rosie Harper.¡±


    Rosie Harper?


    Gracie struggled to recall the name, having no impression of this person. But with the surname, she believed the person might be rted to Brenna. Gracie replied in a cold voice, ¡°I don¡¯t know you. What do you want?¡±


    Rosie knew Gracie didn¡¯t know her and offered a full introduction. ¡°I¡¯m married to Prince Maxley of Plieca. I¡¯m also Brenna¡¯s little sister.¡±


    ¡°Okay, so what¡¯s this about? Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re calling tosh out at me for Brenna,¡± Gracie said.


    A lowugh slipped from Rosie. ¡°No. Brenna stole the man I love from me, and I resent her. I¡¯m calling to discuss a partnership with you. Can we meet at noon tomorrow?¡±


    ?????????????? ?????? ?????????¦Í?????????????


    Gracie doubted every word, convinced Rosie was weaving a lie about her rtionship with Brenna. With a growing sense of irritation, she ended the conversation. ¡°I¡¯m not interested in meeting or working with you.¡±


    Without waiting for a response, she ended the call and reached for her drink.


    She received a friend request shortly after, but she ignored it.


    The next day, Brenna went to work as usual, only to be stopped by Alec at the building entrance. Concern etched his features, Alec said, ¡°Is it true that Gracie is going to start working here from now on and won¡¯t be leaving anytime soon? You¡¯d better watch Ethan closely. Don¡¯t let Graciee between you two.¡±


    Brenna shot him an uninterested look, unwilling to waste words on him, and stepped straight into the elevator.


    The previous night had found her poring over the Mitchell Group¡¯s stocks, drafting a basic strategy in her mind. She nned to go over it with Joe first and then get Ethan¡¯s thoughts.


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 Chapter 1047

    ?Chapter 1047:


    Alec followed her in, clearly worried on her behalf. ¡°Did you even hear me, Brenna? Gracie¡¯s not easy to deal with. She has lost everything and has debts hanging over her. Men always feel an urge to pity and protect a woman like that, you know.¡±


    Brenna usually thought security guards picked up all sorts of stories from the people wandering through the building. Still, the news managed to surprise her. ¡°Where did you hear about Gracie being broke and sinking in debt?¡± she asked Alec, her voice edged with genuine curiosity.


    Alec, unfazed by thepany inside the elevator, made no effort to lower his voice. ¡°Seriously, who hasn¡¯t caught wind of it? Word¡¯s been flying around headquarters. Are you telling me you missed it? Or has Ethan been purposely leaving you out of the loop?¡±


    Brenna shook her head. ¡°Ethan¡¯s not hiding anything from me. I just want to know how you came across the information. Who filled you in?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s thoughts drifted to that day in the elevator, remembering how Gracie had broken down, weeping over her father¡¯s tragic death, her business copsing, and a mountain of debts.


    At first, Brenna had toyed with the idea of asking Lorna to let the story slip, hoping to make Gracie the object of scorn. After all, misfortune did not always draw sympathy and kindness. More often, it set people up for mockery and harsh words.


    However, upon reflection, she believed Gracie was already facing enough misfortune and that she shouldn¡¯t take advantage of her situation. She had thought only a handful of people would hear the tale. Yet, only days had passed, and it seemed everyone in thepany building had learned of it. How could she not be shocked?


    Catching her stunned look, Alec thought she didn¡¯t know that. ¡°You¡¯ve never paid much attention to office chatter. That¡¯s why you¡¯re behind. Just days ago, thepany was abuzz. They said Gracie¡¯s family lost everything. She¡¯s not only broke, but she also owes a lot of money. People even imed her father had iting. As for Gracie, well, nobody¡¯s lining up to defend her. Honestly, I¡¯m warning you¡ªbe careful around her. There¡¯s talk that she¡¯s after Mr. Mitchell. If she married him, maybe he would pay her debts for her and provide her with afortable life. Frankly, I¡¯d do the same if I were in her shoes.¡±


    She nodded. ¡°Any clue who first revealed such information?¡±


    He shrugged and responded, ¡°No idea at all. There are too many mouths in this ce. You¡¯ll never pin it on just one. But at least you know what¡¯s being said. Keep your eyes open. Don¡¯t let someone else swoop in and take what¡¯s yours. Good men¡­¡±


    ???????????? ?????????? ???????????? ???? ?????????¦Í??????©q??????


    Alec scoffed. ¡°Don¡¯te around every day. You don¡¯t want to see Mr. Mitchell walk away with someone else.¡±


    Brenna said, ¡°I need to find out who started all this.¡±


    Alec shrugged. ¡°Why bother? She brought this on herself. Are you hoping to track down the gossip starter or clear her reputation?¡±


    ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll drop it. It doesn¡¯t matter,¡± Brenna replied.


    Even though Alec could get under her skin, Brenna recognized that he could be useful from time to time. She pulled out her phone and sent him two thousand dors as a gesture¡ªnot a fortune, but enough to show she valued his help. Giving him more would only fuel his greed.


    A wide grin spread across Alec¡¯s face as he received the money. ¡°You really don¡¯t keep up around here. If I catch wind of anything new, I¡¯ll let you know.¡±


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    .

 Chapter 1048

    ?Chapter 1048:


    Brenna nodded and stepped out of the elevator. Down the hallway, Lorna had just finished cleaning the office and was preparing to leave, a cup of water in hand. Brenna called out, ¡°Lorna, can youe to my officeter?¡±


    Lorna nodded. Within a minute, she entered Brenna¡¯s office and gently closed the door, offering a warm smile. ¡°Ms. Harper, do you need something?¡±


    Brenna motioned for her to sit. ¡°It¡¯s be clear I don¡¯t know much about what¡¯s happening in thispany. When you have a moment, I¡¯d like you to keep an ear out for me¡ªanything about the CEO, managers, or even staff feuds. Let me know if you hear anything worth sharing.¡±


    Lorna¡¯s eyes brightened. ¡°Absolutely! I pick up plenty of gossip. How else would I know so much about Shirie? Did you just hear something interesting, Ms. Harper?¡±


    Noticing Lorna¡¯s enthusiasm, Brenna felt certain she¡¯d chosen the right person for the job. ¡°I want to know who leaked the news about Gracie going broke and her father¡¯s passing.¡±


    Lorna¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Oh, that? I actually know who did it. One day, I was downstairs grabbing lunch for you and overheard ni chatting with the manager. She said Mr. Mitchell had a fight with Gracie and used her of revealing her own tragic story to everyone. At first I thought the secretaries had spread it, but¡­


    ¡°It turned out Gracie had done it herself. I really don¡¯t understand why. It seems she is not afraid that her creditors will find her here.¡±


    After a pause, she continued, ¡°ni also mentioned that Mr. Mitchell lost his temper that day. He chewed out the secretaries and cut their pay in half for the month. ni keptining about how unfair it was. Gracie let the secret slip herself, and that had nothing to do with the secretaries. They were just doing their jobs but got med for the matter.¡±


    Lorna had truly impressed Brenna by providing every piece of information she needed.


    ¡°What¡¯s your monthly sry now?¡± Brenna asked, picking up the phone to summon Joe upstairs.


    Lorna looked woeful. ¡°I barely bring home twelve thousand each month. That¡¯s the lowest pay in the building¡ªeven interns earn more than I do.¡±


    As a secretary, she was tied to routine paperwork and schedules. If she had been an engineer, her starting sry would have been thirty thousand, plus bonuses andmissions.


    A hopeful feeling crept over Lorna¡ªshe was certain Brenna would offer a raise.


    ???????????? ???????????????????? ???? ?????????¦Í????????????


    ¡°I will raise your sry to twenty thousand a month,¡± Brenna announced with a smile.


    Lorna¡¯s face lit up with gratitude. ¡°Ms. Harper, thank you! You really are wonderful!¡± She left in a cheerful mood. An eightthousanddor increase felt like a miracle. Though still below what engineers made, she now earned as much as ni, who had spent over ten years with thepany.


    Before long, Joe arrived carrying hisptop.


    Lorna returned with a pot of coffee and two cups, ready to leave. Brenna stopped her.


    ¡°Remember those two bags of coffee beans we receivedst week? Take one up to Mr. Mitchell. While you¡¯re there, see what Gracie is doing.¡±


    Lorna hesitated. ¡°Ms. Harper, each bag of those coffee beans is worth more than a hundred thousand. They¡¯re nearly impossible to find, and once they¡¯re gone, we won¡¯t get another shipment until next year. We don¡¯t even have enough for ourselves. Are you sure you want to give one away?¡±


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 Chapter 1049

    ?Chapter 1049:


    ¡°Yes. Just do it,¡± Brenna urged.


    Though reluctant, Lorna obeyed. She retrieved one of the untouched bags from the pantry, ced it in an elegant gift bag, and pulled open a drawer to collect a few choctes worth over¡­


    ¡­ten thousand. She tucked the choctes into her pocket and made her way to the nyninth floor.


    When the elevator doors opened, a row of secretaries looked up, their faces lit with curiosity. The moment they saw her, they straightened at their desks and pretended to work. Lorna wasn¡¯t easily fooled. She sensed the tense atmosphere the instant she stepped off the elevator.


    She walked directly to ni¡¯s desk and asked, ¡°Did something just happen in Mr. Mitchell¡¯s office?¡±


    Muffled voices drifted through the closed door¡ªheated, but unintelligible. ni¡¯s eyes flicked to the gift bag dangling from Lorna¡¯s hand. ¡°Did Ms. Harper send this?¡± she guessed.


    Lorna lifted the bag slightly. ¡°A client¡¯s gift¡ªrare coffee beans, supposedly the best in the world. There were only two bags, and Ms. Harper treasures them. Yet she still asked me to deliver one to Mr. Mitchell.¡±


    ni cocked her head. ¡°Ethan isn¡¯t short on coffee. The break room is stocked with premium blends.¡± She smiled. ¡°But anything from Brenna is special. He always cherishes her gifts.¡±


    ¡°You might want to wait,¡± ni continued, pulling up a chair. ¡°Three deputy managers are in there with Ms. Wilson, and they¡¯ve been arguing for over ten minutes. Their meeting should end soon.¡±


    The two women settled in and chatted quietly¡ªafter all, they knew each other well and shared almost everything. As they spoke, Lorna slipped a few choctes from her pocket and offered them to the secretaries nearby, giving ni two extra pieces. Luxury perks weremon in a firm this size, and everyone recognized the choctes as highend. With sries between ten and twenty thousand a month, none of them would normally spend over ten thousand on a single box.


    Lorna was met with grateful smiles all around. After a bit of small talk, she leaned closer to ni and asked, ¡°So, what¡¯s all the fuss about in there?¡± After a stretch of small talk, Lorna got to the point.


    ni didn¡¯t intend to hide anything. ¡°Do you remember a few days ago when Ms. Wilson tried to take over the fiftyseventh floor?¡±


    ???? ?????? ???????? ???????????? ¡ª ???????? ???? ?????????¦Í??????©q??????


    Lorna nodded. ¡°Yeah. She even went straight to Ms. Harper and stirred up trouble over it. I can¡¯t believe it¡ªshe¡¯s barely settled in and already wants to send us packing. Is she trying to take over both our floors again today?¡±


    With a sigh, ni replied, ¡°Gracie is determined to be general manager of the venture capital project. The three deputy managers and Mr. Mitchell all disagree. Gracie keeps talking about her years leading the Wilson Group and her widework, but Milton pointed out that she¡¯s on a streak of bad luck, and a project this important can¡¯t be entrusted to her. Besides, she¡¯s buried in debt, so nobody trusts her with that responsibility. That¡¯s what sparked the entire argument.¡±


    Angry voices still poured from the CEO¡¯s office. After about ten minutes, Gracie emerged with red, burning eyes and marched past the secretaries¡¯ desks into her own office.


    Lorna grabbed the gift bag and stood. ¡°I¡¯m going in now.¡±


    No one stopped her¡ªEthan had made it clear that whether Brenna or Lorna delivered something, they were to be allowed direct ess to his office.


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 Chapter 1050

    Chapter 1050:


    Lorna stepped out of the elevator, humming to herself, clearly in high spirits. She carried the package Ethan had given her, a bright smile on her face.


    Out of the break room came Greta, coffee in hand. Catching sight of Lorna¡¯s buoyant mood, she raised an eyebrow. ¡°Did you just go to the ny-ninth floor?¡±


    A smirk tugged at Lorna¡¯s mouth. ¡°I did. What¡¯s the matter? Are you dying for a trip up there yourself?¡±


    Greta had long let go of any thoughts about being with Ethan. Feeling a bit irked by Lorna¡¯s words, she replied coldly, ¡°No, I was just trying to make small talk.¡±


    In the office, colleagues weren¡¯t particrly close to Greta, mainly because she had dared topete with Brenna for Ethan before.


    Lorna snorted and then pushed open the door to Brenna¡¯s office. ¡°Ms. Harper, I¡¯ve got the information you need.¡±


    Inside, Brenna was locked in a strategy meeting with Joe, going over the newest wave of trouble in the Mitchell Group¡¯s stock reports. Both of them stopped mid-discussion when Lorna walked in, their eyes drawn straight to the bag she was holding.


    A quick slide sent the bag across the table to Brenna. Lorna said, ¡°Mr. Mitchell bought these local snacks in Plomond a few days ago. He said they are delicious and asked me to bring them to you.¡±


    Curiosity piqued, Brenna sifted through the contents. ¡°So, what information did you get?¡±


    Joe pulled out a chair and gestured for Lorna to take a seat and spill the details.


    Lorna dropped into the chair without missing a beat. ¡°There¡¯s a lot to cover. Remember when Gracie tried to kick us out of the building the other day? Well, guess what? Mr. Mitchell wasn¡¯t behind it at all. She actedpletely on her own. When I got to the 99th floor, she was already locked in a full-blown argument with Mr. Mitchell and three of the VPs. None of them wanted her to lead the new project. They said the bacsh would be too much and it would damage thepany¡¯s image. The argument had gone on for a solid thirty minutes before Gracie stormed out, looking absolutely furious.¡±


    A softugh slipped out of her. ¡°Once I went inside the office, Mr. Mitchell took a moment to walk me through everything that had gone down. I got the feeling he wanted me to pass the details along to you, not wanting you to misunderstand anything. Honestly, it seems like he cares about you more than you realize.¡±


    Brenna hadn¡¯t realized it, but she was smiling, feeling quite pleased. Raindrops tapped gently against the ss outside, but to Brenna, the rain only made the world look more beautiful.


    ???????? ???????? ???? ???????? ??????????¦Í??????[?]??????


    Lorna continued, ¡°I really thought Gracie had his backing when she tried to kick us out. But now, we know she doesn¡¯t. Miss Harper, there¡¯s nothing to worry about. If she dares to stir up trouble again, I won¡¯t go easy on her. We are no pushovers. Not even Mr. Mitchell¡¯s own mother could force us out. What makes Gracie think she stands a chance?¡±


    From his seat, Joe watched the whole exchange with a smile. Lorna¡¯s fiery confidence was impossible to miss, and her chatter always seemed to brighten Brenna¡¯s mood. It was easy to see why Brenna kept her close.


    Meanwhile, Kenny made his way home, every step heavy with fatigue. But the instant he stepped inside, the warmth of the freshly decorated apartment seemed to ease some of his exhaustion. This ce wasn¡¯t just a home. It was a patchwork of memories, every little detail a symbol of their love.


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    .<hr>


    Message from Noah: Have a great night, loved ones. God loves you and Noah wishes you all the best. ????(? ?? ? ¨C ? ) ?


    .


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 1051

    ?Chapter 1051:


    He pulled his suitcase through the door, shut it behind him, and entered the living room, moving toward the bedroom. Rosanna, a fighter pilot, was rarely home except during holidays, so the house felt a bit empty now.


    But as he walked, he was startled to see someone sitting on the leather sofa in the living room. Upon closer inspection, he realized it was Elsa, and his heart sank with a bad feeling.


    This wasn¡¯t just any apartment. Ethan had gifted it to him as a wedding present, a secret Kenny nned to keep until Rosanna was expecting. Elsa wasn¡¯t supposed to know it even existed.


    He hadn¡¯t expected her to find out about this ahead of time.


    ¡°Mom, how did you get in here?¡± Kenny realized there was no point pretending anymore. Elsa must have uncovered the truth about his marriage to Rosanna. A rush of thoughts flooded Kenny¡¯s mind as he scrambled to figure out how to handle the situation.


    The door had a lock that could be opened by a key or password, but Elsa had neither. Kenny suspected Ethan had told Elsa the password.


    ¡°How did I get in? You¡¯ve always used the same password. It wasn¡¯t hard to guess at all,¡± Elsa eximed in anger. ¡°Tell me, do I even matter to you anymore? I¡¯ve told you over and over that you can¡¯t marry Rosanna.


    Why didn¡¯t you listen? You are making me furious!¡±


    With a heavy sigh, Kenny left his suitcase on the floor and slid onto the couch beside her. ¡°I¡¯m an adult now, Mom. My choices aren¡¯t yours to control. What is it about my marriage to Rosanna that bothers you so much? Why is it such a problem for you?¡±


    A dismissive snort left Elsa. ¡°Rosanna has never been the type to follow the rules, and she is reckless.¡±


    Kenny understood Elsa well. ¡°Is it because Rosanna doesn¡¯t follow your orders? Like it or not, we¡¯re married. There¡¯s nothing you can do to change that now.¡±


    A shadow of disappointment crossed Elsa¡¯s face. ¡°You refuse to see what¡¯s best for you. I¡¯m only trying to protect you. She¡¯s overbearing; she always wants things her way. That isn¡¯t what you need. This marriage won¡¯tst. Look at her. Still out there doing that dangerous job like she¡¯s single and has nothing to lose. She doesn¡¯t even act like a wife. You work long hours, and you¡¯re often exhausted. You need someone to take care of you. Listen to me, Kenny, divorce her and find someone who can take care of you properly.¡±


    Elsa faced Kenny, her brow drawn tight in confusion. ¡°You were always the type who listened. Not long ago, I could count on you to behave. Why are you suddenly acting so defiant now?¡±


    Any answer from Kenny remained trapped behind clenched teeth. He had grown weary of hearing that same usation every single time they met.


    ???????????????? ???? ?????????¦Í????????????


    Elsa always opposed his rtionship with Rosanna, so Kenny had started keeping his distance from her. At times, she even sent people to shadow him when he left the military base. But after years in the military, he was highly vignt; he had no trouble losing anyone who tried to follow him.


    Another sigh came from Elsa when silence filled the space. ¡°Why are you not saying anything?¡± she said, pinching his arm sharply, not hiding her frustration.


    Right then, a ringtone cut through the tension. Elsa nced at her phone and, recognizing her brother¡¯s name, picked up the call with a resigned breath.


    ¡°Mom had a fall identally. She broke her pelvis.¡± Ronald Navarro¡¯s anxious voice rushed through the line. ¡°She¡¯s in the hospital now. Pleasee quickly.¡± No hesitation showed on Elsa¡¯s face as she jumped to her feet. ¡°How could that happen? How did she take such a fall?¡±


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 Chapter 1052

    ?Chapter 1052:


    It was no small thing. Someone as old as her mother couldn¡¯t afford such injuries. Without wasting another moment, Elsa hurried toward the door, worry driving her steps.


    Ronald said, ¡°It was raining earlier. She lost her footing on the steps. We¡¯re at Shirie Hospital right now. Get here quickly.¡±


    As soon as the call ended, Kenny asked Elsa, ¡°Is Grandma badly hurt?¡±


    ¡°I really don¡¯t know. We have to get there now,¡± Elsa replied, clearly on edge. ¡°This is exactly why you need to listen to me. I was nning to visit her, with the weather looking so bad. If you hadn¡¯t been so difficult, I wouldn¡¯t havee here and would have gone to take care of her. None of this would have happened.¡±


    Anger shed across Kenny¡¯s face. ¡°I don¡¯t see how this is my fault. It¡¯s not like I failed at looking after my grandmother. Maybe if you hadn¡¯t spent all your time meddling in my life, things would have been different.¡±


    Meanwhile, Ethan was in the office with Brenna and three vice presidents, going over the rescue n Brenna hade up with for thepany¡¯s stock crisis.


    Gracie, an authority in finance, sat in on the meeting. She listened, a frown etched deep, as Brenna detailed her strategy. Frustration simmered in her eyes. ¡°Her n is too reckless and could potentially put the Mitchell Group at greater risk,¡± Gracie firmly opposed, leaving no room for negotiation.


    Milton picked up on the tension right away. He knew Gracie and Brenna were rivals in love and had expected Gracie to oppose Brenna¡¯s n. Even so, he couldn¡¯t deny that Brenna¡¯s ideas had real potential.


    He said, ¡°This strategy could really turn things around for us. It carries some risk, sure, but with the market sliding like this, we need a bold move to halt the losses. If we act fast, we might even see everything bounce back within the week.¡±


    Otis, the mostposed of the group, had been responsible for thepany¡¯s venture capital projects in recent years. He had a strong voice in risk investment and deep research in the financial stock market. ¡°Miss Harper¡¯s approach makes sense to me. Mr. Mitchell, I¡¯m fully on board with her n,¡± he said, giving Brenna his full support. Henley showed his agreement with a nod.


    However, Gracie did not share their view and was anxious. ¡°Don¡¯t you think her strategy is too risky? Take the second financing method, for example¡ªit¡¯s just not realistic. The market¡¯s been tanking. Everyone knows how risky it is. Who¡¯s going to dump money into our stocks now?¡±


    The meeting paused when Ethan¡¯s phone started buzzing. Elsa¡¯s name shed across his screen. He hesitated. She had not called him in weeks, so he picked up, figuring it must be about something serious.


    ???????? ???????? ???????????????? ???? ?¦Á??????¦Í??????£®??????


    ¡°Your grandmother took a fall. She fractured her pelvis and is at Shirie Hospital right now.¡± Elsa spoke with worry pressing at the edges of her voice.


    A deep frown creased Ethan¡¯s brow. ¡°When did this happen?¡±


    ¡°About two hours ago. Come to the hospital quickly,¡± Elsa urged, cutting the call short and hurrying Kenny to drive faster.


    Ethan put his phone back in his pocket and took the coat from the hanger. ¡°Brenna, my grandmother fell and got injured. I need to go see her. Otis, proceed with this n; there¡¯s no need for further discussion. The sooner we act, the more losses we can recover.¡±


    Otis straightened up and answered, ¡°I¡¯ll get on it right away.¡±


    Brenna stood and followed Ethan. ¡°I¡¯ll go with you,¡± she said.


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 Chapter 1053

    ?Chapter 1053:


    As the pair headed for the elevator, Gracie hurried after them, refusing to let the matter about Brenna¡¯s n drop. ¡°Ethan, there are plenty of rtives who can take care of your grandmother. You shouldn¡¯t rush off now. We need more time to review Brenna¡¯s proposal; it¡¯s too risky!¡±


    ¡°I only have one grandma, and there¡¯s always time to make money.¡± Ethan¡¯s tone was cold. He had no patience for Gracie¡¯s heartless suggestion.


    Once inside the elevator, Brenna reached for Ethan¡¯s hand and tried to ease his worry. ¡°Your grandmother has always been strong, Ethan. It¡¯s just her pelvis; she¡¯ll recover. Don¡¯t worry too much.¡±


    A small nod came from Ethan as memories flooded back. ¡°I spent half my childhood running away from fights with my mother, hiding at my grandmother¡¯s ce. Even when my mother called me stubborn or caused a scene, my grandmother never med me. She would just pull me into the kitchen and cook my favorite dishes. She was the only one who really cared about me before.¡±


    Lost in her thoughts, Gracie looked at the elevator doors as they slid shut. Quietly, she whispered to herself, ¡°Why does he care so much about his grandmother? Maybe she means more to him than I realized.¡±


    A moment¡¯s pause was all she needed before she straightened up. ¡°That must be it. I have to go there, too,¡± she said, her resolve hardening.


    Another elevator was waiting, and she stepped in without a second¡¯s hesitation. At this point, Ethan had be her only lifeline. Deep down, she knew his heart already belonged to Brenna, so winning him over seemed nearly impossible. But what if she managed to win over his family?


    It dawned on her that Elsa¡¯s dislike for Brenna might be her opening. Maybe if she yed her cards right, she could still tip the odds in her favor.


    Meanwhile, Ethan and Brenna emerged from the elevator, trailed by Neville. Calm as ever, Neville stepped forward and said, ¡°Mr. Mitchell, please wait here. I¡¯ll bring the car around right away.¡±


    Ethan nodded and continued sharing his childhood memories with Brenna.


    Brenna listened attentively.


    Within seconds, Neville brought the car over.


    At that same moment, Gracie hurried out of the other elevator and rushed over to join them. ¡°Ethan, I¡¯m genuinely worried about your grandmother. I know some of the best orthopedic surgeons in Norview; maybe I can help,¡± she suggested, already having rehearsed her pitch on the way down.


    ?????????? ?????????????? ???????????? ???? ?????????¦Í??????©q?????


    She hoped Ethan would see the sense in her offer and agree to let her tag along.


    Ethan thought about it for a second, then agreed, ¡°Alright.¡±


    The thought crossed his mind that if Belen¡¯s situation became moreplicated, Gracie¡¯s medical connections abroad might actually prove useful. Brenna recognized Gracie¡¯s intentions immediately. She kept quiet, her expression cool and unreadable. When their eyes met, Gracie¡¯s gaze flickered with hostility.


    They then all got inside the car.


    With Gracie now along for the ride, Ethan¡¯s urge to share childhood stories vanished.


    The drive to the hospital passed in tense silence, the city lights blurring by.


    Inside the emergency ward, Belen remained under observation. Due to her age, surgery couldn¡¯t proceed right away. Doctors needed to ensure her body could handle the risks before moving forward.


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 Chapter 1054

    ?Chapter 1054:


    She had already been given something for the pain, so when Ethan arrived, he found her resting in bed, gazing through the window.


    Ethan said, ¡°Grandma, how are you feeling?¡± He was relieved to see that she looked alright.


    Stepping closer, Brenna reached out to gently squeeze Belen¡¯s hand. ¡°Let me examine you, Belen,¡± she said with genuine concern.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t have toe, dear. You all have your own busy lives. I¡¯m really not that fragile, but thank you for worrying about me.¡± A sheepish smile crept across Belen¡¯s face as she noticed how many people hade here to check on her.


    With practiced care, Brenna examined Belen and found no major health issues. She should be ready for surgery soon.


    On the other side of the bed, Ethan sped Belen¡¯s free hand. ¡°We should have been looking out for you better,¡± he said, guilt flickering across his features.


    Realizing she hadn¡¯t been introduced, Gracie strode forward without waiting. ¡°My name¡¯s Gracie. I¡¯m a friend of Ethan¡¯s and also helped build the Mitchell Group,¡± she said with poise.


    Graceful andposed, she exuded the air of someone raised in privilege. Belen offered a grateful nod in return. ¡°It¡¯s lovely to meet you. I appreciate youing all this way,¡± she replied kindly.


    Ethan said, ¡°Gracie¡¯s been there for me since the beginning. When the Mitchell Group was just a dream, she helped me pull it off.¡±


    That bit of backstory made Belen realize just how much Gracie had supported her grandson. She motioned toward the fruit on the nightstand.


    Picking up an apple, Ethan handed it to Belen, who then held it out for Gracie. ¡°There¡¯s not much I can offer, but please take this apple as a small thank you,¡± she said with a gentle smile.


    Gracie understood this as a sign of Belen¡¯s approval, epting the apple with joy, and said, ¡°I know some excellent orthopedic doctors in Norview. If you need them, I can introduce them to you.¡±


    Just then, Ronald and Bess entered from outside, spotting Ethan. ¡°Ethan, you¡¯re here. Perfect timing; let¡¯s take Grandma for her tests.¡±


    ncing around, Ethan didn¡¯t see his mother or Kenny. ¡°Where¡¯s my mother?¡±


    ?????????????? ???????????? ???? g???????¦Í?????????????


    Waving a stack of documents, Ronald exined, ¡°She¡¯s on the phone with a specialist, and Kenny¡¯s taking care of the bills. The doctor wrote up these test orders. Let¡¯s make sure we get through everything.¡±


    Brenna finished her assessment of Belen and turned to Ethan. ¡°Belen¡¯s in great shape, all things considered. She should be able to handle the surgery,¡± she assured him.


    A wave of relief washed over Ethan, his shoulders finally loosening.


    Bess was delighted to see Brenna again. She admired Dalton, and upon learningst time that Dalton was Brenna¡¯s brother, she had been thinking of ways to meet Brenna again. If she could, she definitely wanted to add Brenna on Facebook and be friends with her, hoping to get closer to Dalton by doing that.


    Brenna decided it would be best if Bess went with her for Belen¡¯s check-up. Being apanied by other women always made these visits feel less awkward. Medical exams often called for some level of undressing, and even though Ethan and Ronald were family, certain things just went smoother with women around.


    Elsa and Ethan had connections at this hospital, so they didn¡¯t have to wait in line for any of the tests, saving a lot of time.


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 Chapter 1055

    ?Chapter 1055:


    After thest test was done, Elsa had already arranged for a room in the orthopedics ward for Belen.


    As the elevator doors slid open, Brenna and the others guided the bed down the hall. Elsa stood nearby, arms folded, her gaze fixed on the group. Her expression, once warm, hardened the moment Brenna came into view.


    Given Belen¡¯s injury and the current situation, Elsa kept her sharp words to herself, at least for now. She wasn¡¯t about to start trouble, not wanting to upset Belen. Still, as soon as Brenna pushed the bed out of the elevator, Elsa deliberately pushed past her, giving her a cold, warning nce.


    Ethan caught the silent exchange and gave Brenna a reassuring nod, hoping tofort her.


    Bess had seen enough to recognize Elsa¡¯s open dislike for Brenna. She quietly let go of the bed. There were plenty of hands to guide it, so she knew she was not needed. She didn¡¯t want Brenna to have a negative impression of her.


    She stayed back tofort Brenna, saying, ¡°Don¡¯t mind my aunt Elsa. She¡¯s just not good with people. For as long as I can remember, she has always been blunt, often speaking and treating people without regard for their feelings.¡± Those words made Brenna feel better. It struck her as odd that someone like Elsa¡ªfamous throughout the country as an artist and a singer¡ªcould go through life without learning a bit of tact.


    Brenna remembered meeting Bess at Belen¡¯s house before. Bess had been mean to her at the time, but once she discovered that Brenna was rted to Dalton, her attitude had softened right away.


    Even though the shift puzzled her, Brenna chose to ept Bess¡¯ kindness this time.


    Brenna said, ¡°It¡¯s really okay. I¡¯m used to it by now,¡± she said inly. ¡°Every time she sees me, she¡¯s got something mean to say. She just can¡¯t stand me, and she definitely doesn¡¯t want me being with Ethan.¡±


    Bess rolled her eyes. ¡°That¡¯s just how she is. She wants to control everything around her. She and Ethan fight constantly. He often goes to Grandma¡¯s house just to get a break from her. Even Grandma thinks Elsa¡¯s a handful. So really, the problem¡¯s hers, not yours. Personally, I think you¡¯re great. You¡¯re smart, kind, and good-looking.¡±


    With no attempt to hide her real intention, Bess said, ¡°Besides, you¡¯re rted to Dalton, the famous star. I¡¯m a huge fan of him. I went to his concert not long ago and saw you give him flowers on stage. What exactly is your rtionship with him?¡±


    Curiosity sparkled in Bess¡¯ eyes as she looked at Brenna, waiting for an answer. Brenna met her gaze and answered, ¡°Dalton is one of my older brothers. I thought you knew thatst time.¡± She realized Bess was straightforward and liked that about her.


    ?????????????? ???????????????©q?????


    Bess could hardly believe it. ¡°Wait, really? I figured you two were rtedst time, but I didn¡¯t want to assume.¡± Her voice trembled with excitement. If that were true, maybe she¡¯d get to see Dalton one day if she visited Brenna¡¯s home.


    With a quick nod, Brenna confirmed it. ¡°Yeah.¡±


    The two of them chatted at the door. Brenna peeked in; doctors were still giving instructions to Elsa and the others.


    Soon, Elsa escorted the doctor out. When she saw Brenna still standing there, her face darkened in anger.


    Elsa wasted no time striding over. ¡°You sure have some nerve. My son has already ended things with you, yet you still keep hanging around. Don¡¯t you understand he has moved on? He doesn¡¯t like you anymore!¡±


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 Chapter 1056

    ?Chapter 1056:


    Facing Elsa¡¯s disdain, Brenna refused to back down. That icy re and superior tone had always grated on her. She said, ¡°Maybe focus on taking care of Belen instead of making things difficult for me. My rtionship with Ethan is none of your business.¡±


    The rising voices caught Ethan¡¯s attention. Leaving Belen¡¯s bedside, he walked out of the room to intervene.


    ¡°Mom, what are you talking about? I like Brenna. We¡¯re back together, so please, just stay out of my rtionship with her. Grandma¡¯s been calling for you.¡±


    Frustration red. ¡°You¡¯re siding with her?¡± she demanded, bristling. ¡°Didn¡¯t you two split up not long ago? Weren¡¯t you seeing Gracie¡­¡±


    She paused, noticing Gracie standing by the window, seemingly on a phone call, her back turned to them.


    Seeing Gracie didn¡¯t stop her criticism for long. She continued, ¡°Gracie isn¡¯t right for you, either. She lied about her divorce and tricked me. Honestly, why do you always attract such troublesome women?¡±


    She vented her dissatisfaction without sparing anyone else¡¯s feelings.


    Fed up with his mother¡¯s meddling, Ethan said, ¡°Things between Brenna and me are going well now. She¡¯s the one who wanted to break up before, and I fought hard to make things right and get back together with her. If you keep pushing her away, I¡¯ll just have to chase her all over again.¡±


    Elsa was just about to leave when Kenny came back from handling the paperwork. Spotting Brenna, he broke into a cheerful smile and greeted her. ¡°You are here, too, Brenna.¡±


    Brenna returned his smile. ¡°I happened to be with Ethan when you called, so I tagged along to see how things were going.¡±


    Whipping around, Elsatched onto Kenny¡¯s arm and demanded an exnation. ¡°Why bother talking to her at all?¡±


    Kenny answered casually, ¡°She¡¯s Ethan¡¯s girlfriend. Sooner orter, she¡¯ll be his wife.¡± He didn¡¯t see it as a big deal. In his mind, Ethan¡¯s feelings for Brenna were obvious, and nothing Elsa did would change that. Elsa could put up all the resistance she wanted, but Brenna was destined to be part of the family.


    Elsa, on the other hand, bristled. Panic flickered across her face as her voice climbed. She turned to Ethan. ¡°You and Brenna didn¡¯t get married behind my back, did you?¡±


    Catching sight of her outrage, Ethan couldn¡¯t resist provoking her further. ¡°Yeah, we got married already. You¡¯ll be a grandmother soon.¡±


    ?????? ???? ?????????? ???????????????????????


    Brenna shot Ethan a startled look. She couldn¡¯t believe he would just lie like that. After all, her parents still hadn¡¯t given them their full blessing.


    ¡°Are you both trying to drive me insane?¡± Elsa red at both Kenny and Ethan, her anger simmering over. At that moment, she found Brenna more annoying than Rosanna.


    However, Brenna found Elsa¡¯s frustration almost satisfying. ¡°It¡¯s gettingte. I should get going. I¡¯ll stop by to visit Belen tomorrow.¡±


    Watching Elsa¡¯s temper re brought a flicker of amusement to her.


    Meanwhile, Bess could hardly contain her excitement. If what Ethan imed were true, that would make her and Dalton family.


    That thought alone sent a thrill through her. Being a family meant she¡¯d have the perfect excuse to see Dalton often. She quickly said, ¡°Let me walk Brenna out.¡±


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 Chapter 1057

    ?Chapter 1057:


    Elsa, still fuming, gave Bess a quick smack on the head. ¡°Who said you could cozy up to her? Keep your distance from her!¡±


    Bess let out an exasperated sigh. ¡°Haven¡¯t you always fought Ethan on everything since he was a kid? And didn¡¯t you always end up letting him have his way?¡±


    Before Elsa couldunch into another tirade, Bess quickly pulled Brenna into the elevator.


    Gracie ended her call and approached, her eyes widening in surprise at the sight of a man who looked exactly like Ethan. She had no idea about Ethan¡¯s family background, let alone the fact that he had a twin brother.


    ¡°Who is that? He¡¯s the spitting image of you!¡± she said to Ethan.


    ¡°That¡¯s my older brother, Kenny. We¡¯re twins.¡± Ethan made the introductions smoothly. He also introduced Kenny and Elsa to Gracie. Elsa barely concealed her dislike. Her intuition told her exactly what Gracie was after, and she disliked her for it.


    ¡°Miss Wilson, it¡¯s gettingte. There¡¯s nothing left for you to do here. We can look after my mother on our own. You should go home,¡± Elsa said coldly.


    The cold dismissal took Gracie by surprise. She had made the trip to leave a good impression, only to be brushed off so rudely.


    Turning to Ethan, she tried again. ¡°I¡¯ve spoken with an orthopedic specialist in Norview about your grandmother¡¯s condition. They said if she wants treatment there, they can arrange it anytime.¡±


    A gentle smile formed on Ethan¡¯s lips. ¡°Thank you for your offer. Right now, my grandmother can get the care she needs here, so we aren¡¯t considering overseas treatment. She¡¯s over eighty, and a long trip would be too much for her. There¡¯s no need for that at the moment. If things change, we¡¯ll think about it then.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s words sounded much kinder, and Gracie felt her mood lighten. ¡°Alright then, take good care of your grandmother. I¡¯ll be heading out now.¡±


    He made no move to walk her to the elevator. As Gracie rode down, a small wave of disappointment washed over her. Still, knowing Ethan hadn¡¯t seen Brenna off either made her feel slightly better.


    In the meantime, Brenna and Bess exchanged contact information. Bess made her intentions clear from the start. ¡°Brenna, I¡¯m a huge fan of Dalton. I¡¯d really like to talk to him. Would you mind sharing his contact information? Maybe you could let him know I¡¯ll be sending a friend request?¡±


    Brenna paused, considering Bess¡¯ request. Not wanting to seem pushy, Bess added, ¡°I promise, I won¡¯t bug him. I¡¯m not one of those wild fans. I just want to connect a little. I know it¡¯s a lot to ask¡­¡±


    ???????? ???????????? ?????????????? ???? ??????????????????????


    ¡°You defended me earlier, so I owe you one. I will share his contact information with you,¡± Brenna said with a smile. She passed along Dalton¡¯s profile and even messaged him to ept Bess¡¯ request.


    ¡°Thanks, Brenna. You¡¯re really kind.¡±


    Down in the hospital lobby, Gracie overheard their voices and felt a pang of envy. It was clear Brenna had already won over Ethan¡¯s family. That left her feeling upset.


    ¡°Miss Navarro.¡± Gracie stepped over, offering a curt nod before addressing Bess with a stiff tone. ¡°Miss Harper isn¡¯t married to Ethan yet. There¡¯s no need for you to get so close to her.¡±


    Bess shot her a look of pure annoyance. She couldn¡¯t stand Gracie. Thest time she¡¯d seen Elsa, Elsa had nothing butints about Gracie, saying she was married yet still clinging to Ethan. How annoying.


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 Chapter 1058

    ?Chapter 1058:


    She said to Gracie, ¡°To me, it¡¯s just a matter of time before she bes part of the family.¡±


    ¡°You should tread carefully. They¡¯re not married yet, and who knows what could change down the line? If they split, and you¡¯re still so tight with her, you¡¯ll be stuck in an awkward spot,¡± Gracie said.


    She felt indignant. Why did Ethan¡¯s cousin seem to adore Brenna so much? She shot Brenna a frosty nce, itching to know how Brenna had won over Ethan¡¯s family.


    Brenna opened her mouth to retort that Gracie¡¯s concern was unwarranted, but before she could say anything, Bess spoke up, visibly angry.


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure what your deal is with Ethan, but you clearly don¡¯t know him well. Ethan¡¯s picky about who he lets into his heart and has never had a girlfriend before. Once hemits to someone, it¡¯s a lifelong decision. He won¡¯t change his mind easily.¡±


    Bess gave Gracie a slow, appraising look. Sure, Gracie was tall and undeniably gorgeous, but her air of superiority made it seem like she believed that everyone else was beneath her.


    How could Ethan ever go for someone like her?


    ¡°Ethan wouldn¡¯t even spare you a nce in a million years,¡± Bess added sharply. Brenna stifled augh. Bess had a sharp tongue, saying everything she had wanted to say.


    Gracie said, ¡°That¡¯s nonsense. Back in Norview, ten years ago, Ethan and I had some close moments. He was very kind to me.¡±


    Bess rolled her eyes. ¡°You¡¯ve known him for so many years, yet you¡¯re not his girlfriend. Doesn¡¯t that tell you he was never into you?¡±


    She grabbed Brenna¡¯s arm and started down the steps. ¡°I owe you a thank-you for giving me Dalton¡¯s contact information. I will treat you to a meal; I know this amazing spot. After we¡¯re done, I¡¯ll drive you home.¡±


    Brenna didn¡¯t object and slid into Bess¡¯ car. She had arrived in Ethan¡¯s car earlier, so she nced toward his car. It looked empty.


    Gracie, fuming, stomped over to Ethan¡¯s car, only to find it unupied. She dialed his number, hoping he would arrange a ride for her to go back, but he didn¡¯t pick up.


    With no cabs avable during rush hour, she had to take a bus or the subway to get back.


    ???????????? ???????????? ????????: ??????????????????[?]??????


    That evening, Brenna returned home and saw Dalton, who hadn¡¯t been home for over two months. Fresh from a shower, he walked downstairs.


    ¡°What¡¯s that you¡¯re holding?¡± Dalton asked as he noticed the takeout box.


    Brenna handed it to him. ¡°I ate out with a friend, and the food was so good I brought some back. Want to try it?¡±


    Dalton took the box to the dining table and dug in. ¡°I just got home, and I¡¯m famished.¡±


    Brenna sat across from him, telling him about Bess. ¡°If I had known you were back, I would have invited her in to say hi.¡±


    ¡°No, I¡¯m not ready. Look at me¡ªno makeup. Gotta prep before meeting fans, or I might not make the best impression,¡± Dalton said, grinning.


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 Chapter 1059

    ?Chapter 1059:


    Brenna replied, ¡°Please. Without makeup, you already have half the women out there swooning. Add it, and even I might fall for you.¡±


    Dalton chuckled. ¡°I¡¯ve never seen you be charmed by me.¡±


    Brennaughed. ¡°How long are you going to stay this time?¡±


    ¡°About ten days.¡± Having just finished filming a historical drama, Dalton had a brief break before diving into promotions for his next movie, a grueling schedule. ¡°This dish is great,¡± he said. ¡°Our chef needs to learn how to cook this.¡±


    The next morning, Brenna was in Ethan¡¯s office, drafting a proposal for the Mitchell Group¡¯s stock market strategy, when Ethan¡¯s phone buzzed. He nced at the screen; it was another call from Elsa. Thinking it might be about Belen¡¯s test results, he answered swiftly.


    Elsa¡¯s voice came through, choked with sobs. ¡°Ethan, your brother¡¯s awful! He shoved me down the stairs for that woman, and now my leg¡¯s broken. It hurts so much¡­¡±


    Ethan froze. He knew Elsa¡¯s habit of embellishing stories and pinning me unfairly. From what he knew of Kenny, he knew he would never push Elsa down the stairs.


    ¡°Mom, don¡¯t make things up. Kenny wouldn¡¯t do that,¡± he said.


    ¡°Make things up? Ronald saw it with his own eyes! Kenny and his wife pushed me! I¡¯m furious¡­ Ouch, my leg¡¯s really broken. Get here now!¡±


    ¡°Fine, I¡¯m on my way.¡± He quickly hung up and tried calling Kenny, but the call went unanswered, leaving him confused.


    Brenna caught the worry etched on his face. ¡°Bad news about Belen¡¯s tests?¡±


    Ethan shook his head. ¡°No, it¡¯s my mom. She said Kenny pushed her down the stairs, and she broke her leg. I¡¯m going to check on her now.¡±


    Even though it was Brenna¡¯s boyfriend¡¯s mother who ended up with a broken leg, a situation that probably should¡¯ve upset her, she couldn¡¯t help but feel a little satisfied, convinced that Elsa was finally facing some well-deserved consequences.


    With a grin she made no effort to hide, Brenna announced, ¡°I¡¯m going to check for myself. I have a feeling the matter isn¡¯t as simple as it looks.¡±


    Ethan gave a silent nod in agreement. He didn¡¯t think Brenna was being unreasonable. Honestly, he doubted Kenny would ever do something as extreme as pushing their mother down the stairs. There had to be more to the story.


    ???????? ???? ?????????????????????


    Soon after, the two of them made their way downstairs. Brenna climbed into her regr spot in Ethan¡¯s car, and Neville took the wheel.


    During the drive, Ethan tried again and again to get Kenny on the phone. Each ignored call only added to his suspicion that something more was going on. Given everything Ethan knew about Kenny, the idea that he¡¯d deliberately hurt Elsa just didn¡¯t add up.


    ¡°Could you speed up a bit?¡± Ethan urged, ncing at Neville. Kenny¡¯s continued silence was starting to make him genuinely worried.


    Ethan and Brenna wasted no time once they reached the hospital, hurrying straight to the orthopedic department. The elevator doors opened, and Ethan immediately walked to the hospital room next to Belen¡¯s. Inside, Elsa sat on the hospital bed looking pale and weak. Her right pant leg was snapped open, exposing a bulky bandage wrapped around her lower leg. There was also a head wrap covering her forehead, though no blood was visible, leaving the extent of that injury a mystery.


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 Chapter 1060

    ?Chapter 1060:


    Ronald and Bess stood nearby, their faces tense with irritation. Bess kept rolling her eyes, clearly angry.


    A wave of relief washed over Ethan as he took in the scene. His gaze lingered on Elsa¡¯s leg before he finally spoke up, a note of disbelief in his voice. ¡°A broken calf, and the surgery was done this quickly?¡±


    Elsa¡¯s face tightened with unease, and she didn¡¯t know what to say.


    Looking to Ronald for answers, Ethan asked, ¡°Uncle Ronald, my mom¡¯s leg isn¡¯t really broken, is it?¡±


    Ronald¡¯s face was dark as he looked at Elsa in anger. He directly told Ethan the truth. ¡°She just has a minor scrape.¡±


    A heavy silence lingered as Ethan met Elsa¡¯s eyes. She quickly looked away, unable to hold his gaze for long.


    Ethan wasn¡¯t about to let the matter go. ¡°So? Want to exin what really happened? Why is Kenny ignoring my calls?¡± Elsa squirmed under his questions.


    Ethan shifted his focus to Ronald. ¡°Uncle Ronald, just tell me what happened.¡±


    Ronald let out a deep sigh before recounting everything.


    ¡°Kenny and Rosanna dropped by when they found out your grandma was ill. Your mom was already here, helping your grandmother eat. You know, your mom doesn¡¯t like Rosanna. She spoke to her harshly, calling her shameless, and said many unpleasant things about her.¡±


    Before he could go on, Elsa interjected, her voice rising in protest. ¡°Don¡¯t pin this all on me! That woman¡¯s never shown me an ounce of respect. She just greeted me and then ignored me, but she was sweet as pie with my mom. Why shouldn¡¯t I call her out? Just because I point out her rudeness, suddenly I¡¯m the viin? She tried to hit me over onement! That is outrageous!¡±


    Bess shook her head, clearly not agreeing with Elsa.


    Brenna made no move to greet anyone. Instead, she simply shed Ronald a polite smile, then settled quietly beside Bess.


    Seeing Brenna deliberately ignore her, Elsa felt her irritation boil over. She jabbed a finger in Brenna¡¯s direction and snapped, ¡°You know, Brenna¡¯s even more disrespectful than Rosanna! At least Rosanna greets me, even though she is cold. But look at Brenna. She can¡¯t even bother to say hello to me. So rude!¡±


    Before Elsa could continue, Ethan stepped forward and blocked her view of Brenna. ¡°Mom, leave Brenna out of this. We¡¯re supposed to be talking about what happened with Kenny and Rosanna. Don¡¯t try to change the subject.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s anger only grew, and she rounded on Ethan. ¡°Look at you. She isn¡¯t even your wife, but you¡¯re already taking her side! Am I not allowed to scold her now?¡±


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    Ethan kept hisposure. ¡°Brenna isn¡¯t your daughter. You didn¡¯t raise her, so don¡¯t act like you can lecture her.¡±


    Elsa was so outraged that her hands shook. She was unable toe up with a retort.


    Ethan turned back to Ronald. ¡°Uncle Ronald, what happened after that?¡±


    Ronald¡¯s anger was in to see. Instead of enjoying a quiet retirement, Elsa always managed to stir up trouble, and now, things had spun out of control.


    ¡°When your mom started arguing with Rosanna, I told them that your grandmother was sick and they needed to take their argument somewhere else. So, they left the room.


    Kenny followed them out. When I stepped into the hallway, I saw him desperately reaching for his wife as they both tumbled down the stairs. Your mothery sprawled on the floor, crying out in agony. Rosanna was gravely injured and bleeding; there was a real chance she might lose the baby.


    Ethan stared at Elsa in disbelief. ¡°So you were the one who started the fight, and your actions caused Rosanna¡¯s fall. Yet you told me Kenny had pushed you? How could you twist the truth like that?¡±


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 Chapter 1061

    ?Chapter 1061:


    Elsa stubbornly clung to her version of the story. ¡°Rosanna only fell because she wasn¡¯t watching her step. I never pushed her. Kenny just got caught up in it while trying to help. My heart is breaking for him; he is still unconscious¡­¡± The word ¡°unconscious¡± shocked Ethan. He hadn¡¯t realized how serious things were earlier¡ªKenny was actually in aa.


    Fury surged as Ethan leveled his re at Elsa, ming her for escting things too far. Ever since she¡¯d left her job at Shirie University, she¡¯d done nothing but cause trouble for both Kenny and him. Now, she¡¯d gone so far as to shove her own daughter-inw down the stairs? How cruel was that?


    Each new thought sent Ethan¡¯s anger spiraling higher. To him, Elsa was out of line, forcing Kenny and him to the brink of cutting ties with her.


    His words came out like ice. ¡°Did Kenny hit his head? Mom, you¡¯ve crossed the line this time. Wasn¡¯t our family already in enough turmoil?¡±


    Brenna, still reeling from it all, thought Elsa hadn¡¯t actually been so harsh with her. Knowing how Rosanna, a pilot with a strong physique, had been pushed to the point of a miscarriage by Elsa only showed how outrageous Elsa could be. In a hushed voice, Brenna asked Bess, ¡°Did Rosanna really lose the baby?¡±


    Bess replied in a low voice, ¡°No. She¡¯s in maternity on an IV, trying to stabilize things. The doctor said the situation is critical, so they¡¯re keeping her under close watch. Kenny acted as a cushion to save her when she fell, hitting the back of his head. The Mitchell family is all there, keeping watch outside the operating room.¡±


    Shock shed across Brenna¡¯s face. ¡°Wait, Kenny is unconscious and still in surgery?¡±


    That exined why he wasn¡¯t answering any of Ethan¡¯s calls.


    Bess said, ¡°Kenny fainted right after he hit his head. He¡¯s only just been taken into surgery. We still have no idea how things will turn out. See? Elsa lookspletely rattled. She can¡¯t even meet Ethan¡¯s eyes. You walked in without a word to her, and for once, she didn¡¯t say much about it. She¡¯s so worried about Kenny.¡±


    Ethan overheard that and red at Elsa. ¡°Are you still going to oppose Kenny being with Rosanna? Their marriage is none of your business. Why can¡¯t you just let them be happy? You¡¯re retired¡ªfind something else to do. Travel. Enjoy yourself. Please, just stop stirring up trouble for everyone else.¡±


    With frustration weighing on him, Ethan turned and hurried off toward the operating suite to check on Kenny¡¯s condition.


    Brenna trailed behind, casting a disdainful nce at Elsa as she left.


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    Honestly, Brenna thought Elsa was nothing but a headache, always causing trouble.


    Catching up quickly, Bess tugged at Brenna¡¯s sleeve. ¡°Let¡¯s go see Rosanna. She¡¯s all by herself right now. Her family¡¯s too far away to get here, and the Mitchells are all waiting outside the operating room for Kenny.¡±


    Brenna agreed, and together, they made their way to the third-floor maternity ward. Sure enough, Rosanna sat alone there, hooked to an IV and lost in thought at the edge of her bed.


    ¡°Rosanna,¡± Brenna and Bess called out together.


    Strong as ever, Rosanna didn¡¯t let a single tear fall. She looked up at her visitors, nodded, and a quiet relief flickered in her eyes¡ªtheir presence meant she wasn¡¯t an outsider here.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t deserve any of this,¡± Brenna said gently as she settled onto the vacant bed nearby. Her gaze fell on the empty table at Rosanna¡¯s side. No one had visited to bring her some water.


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 Chapter 1062

    ?Chapter 1062:


    Physically, Rosanna appeared unharmed, and she looked calm.


    Her thoughts jumped straight to Kenny. ¡°Any news on Kenny? Has his surgery finished?¡±


    Worry for her baby barely crossed her mind¡ªher faith in her own resilience left little room for fear of miscarriage.


    It was Kenny she truly felt concerned about. He had fallen down the stairs with her and hit his head hard.


    Bess tried tofort Rosanna, saying, ¡°He¡¯ll pull through, Rosanna. Kenny is strong; remember, he flew nes for years. It¡¯s just a knock on the head. With all those doctors on his side, he¡¯s in good hands.¡±


    Yet, even those soothing words fell t, unable to chip away at the anxiety clutching Rosanna¡¯s chest.


    Brenna was already unlocking her phone. ¡°Ethan¡¯s down by the OR. I¡¯ll call him and ask him about the situation there.¡±


    The call went through quickly.


    ¡°Any update?¡± Brenna put the call on speaker, hoping for good news.


    Ethan¡¯s tone was somber. ¡°They found a small brain bleed¡ªabout two milliliters. The surgical team¡¯s working on it, but his life¡¯s not in danger right now.¡±


    Brenna wasn¡¯t sure if that was good news. She hung up and looked at Rosanna. ¡°See, he¡¯s not in immediate danger. Don¡¯t worry; he¡¯ll be fine.¡±


    Some of the tension left Rosanna¡¯s posture, but indignation simmered in her eyes. ¡°Elsa knew I was pregnant. Yet, she still pushed me down the stairs.¡±


    Bess didn¡¯t hesitate to take her side. ¡°I saw it, too. You never touched her; she pushed you first.¡±


    Rosanna¡¯s anger sharpened. ¡°She tried to im I started it?¡±


    Bess nodded. ¡°I know my aunt was out of line. I¡¯m not asking you to forgive her, only that you and Kenny both get through this safely. Are you hungry? Let me get you something to eat. You¡¯re stuck here with an IV, and no one even brought you any water. This isn¡¯t right.¡±


    Bess rose from her seat and turned to Brenna. ¡°Stay here with Rosanna. I¡¯m going to buy a few things.¡±


    Brenna reached into her purse, pulled out a wad of cash, and offered it to Bess.


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    Bess waved it off. ¡°I¡¯ve got it covered.¡±


    The moment Bess stepped out, Rosanna started talking to Brenna.


    ¡°You¡¯re from the powerful Harper family. Elsa at least treats you with some respect, no?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s lips twisted into a wry smile. ¡°No. I was lost as a child and raised by the Barretts. I only returned to the Harper family recently, and she looks down on me. Then there was that incident at Mrs. Russell¡¯s birthday party. I made a bet and got Braeden to help with a performance. When Elsa showed up, she got offended by the matter. She dislikes me.¡±


    Rosanna let out a softugh. ¡°I figured she might have warmed up to you a little. I heard about that matter before¡ªpeople allughed at her because of how she reacted. It wasn¡¯t a big deal; she¡¯s a performer, so why can¡¯t she perform for Mrs. Russell? But she couldn¡¯t get over it, felt embarrassed, and even decided to retire early. I think that¡¯s why she¡¯s against me being with Kenny. She¡¯s afraid I¡¯ll judge her for it.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s eyes widened in surprise. ¡°So that¡¯s why she¡¯s so against your marriage to Kenny? Her pride sure runs deep.¡±


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 Chapter 1063

    ?Chapter 1063:


    ¡°She also has a strong need for control.¡± Rosanna felt much better as she vented with Brenna about Elsa.


    Before long, Bess returned, carrying some fruit, three takeout containers, and several bottles of water.


    Before they could dig in, Brenna¡¯s phone buzzed. It was Ethan.


    ¡°Kenny¡¯s out of surgery,¡± he said, his voice clear through the speakerphone. ¡°The doctor said it went well. He¡¯ll wake up in a couple of hours, and he won¡¯t have anyplications.¡±


    Rosanna exhaled, relief washing over her.


    In the orthopedic ward, Elsa had been anxiously awaiting updates on her son. When she heard that Kenny was okay, the guilt gnawing at her disappeared, and her mood brightened.


    She turned to Ronald with renewed confidence. ¡°Ronald, when Kenny wakes, give him a piece of your mind. How could he risk his life for an outsider?¡±


    Ronald¡¯s patience snapped. ¡°Enough. I¡¯m done with your nonsense. Handle your own family drama. I¡¯m going to check on Belen; she¡¯s got surgery this afternoon.¡± He stood and walked out, brushing past Emmett, who entered with a dark expression.


    The two men exchanged a curt nod in silence.


    As Emmett entered the room, Elsa¡¯s eyes dropped, unease flickering across her face as she avoided his piercing stare.


    Emmett was in a foul mood, his face taut with barely contained anger.


    ¡°Let¡¯s get a divorce,¡± he said, his voice cutting through the silence. His gaze fell on Elsa¡¯s leg, swathed in an overly thick bandage that screamed exaggeration for what was clearly a minor scratch. Was she staging this to paint her daughter-inw as the viin?


    ¡°What did you just say?¡± Elsa¡¯s head snapped up, her voice rising in disbelief as she slid out of bed and strode toward him. For years, Emmett had indulged her, bending to her whims and protecting her. How could he want to divorce her so suddenly?


    Emmett¡¯s frown deepened, his eyes cold. ¡°Your leg¡¯s fine, but you¡¯ve wrapped it as if you had a serious injury. Are you trying to turn people against your daughter-inw? I don¡¯t know how I¡¯ve put up with you this long. If we stay together, our sons will never have happy lives. They¡¯ll either stay single or end up divorced, and I¡¯ll be left without grandkids. We¡¯re done. Stay out of our family¡¯s business and live your own life.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s temper red, her voice sharp and unrestrained. ¡°So it¡¯s all my fault now? You were against Kenny¡¯s rtionship before, too, but suddenly, I¡¯m the bad person? Divorce or not, those boys are mine. I gave birth to them!¡±


    ?????? ?????????? ???? g???????¦Í??????£®?????


    Emmett¡¯s expression remained icy. ¡°That¡¯s not your decision to make. They¡¯re grown men. You think they¡¯ll choose your side? The Mitchell family will pave their way for them¡ªEthan¡¯s trade routes, Kenny¡¯s career at the airline. What can you offer them?¡±


    Elsa fell silent, her anger deting as the truth hit her. Without the Mitchell name, she was just an unpopr singer, her star dimmed by age and the rise of fresh talent.


    Though money wasn¡¯t an issue for her, she didn¡¯t want a divorce.


    ¡°No, I won¡¯t agree to a divorce!¡± she eximed in anger. ¡°If you push for it, I¡¯ll spill every dirty secret your family¡¯s got. Let¡¯s see how your family members can still stay in the military then.¡±


    .


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    .

 Chapter 1064

    ?Chapter 1064:


    Emmett¡¯s rage left him speechless. With a trembling hand, he pointed at Elsa, itching to strike her but stopping himself at thest moment. ¡°You¡¯re nothing but trouble!¡±


    A resounding bang echoed as Emmett stormed out, mming the door behind him. Outside, he ranted to his brother, saying, ¡°Why did I ever end up with her? Look at the chaos she has brought down on my sons! What kind of mother behaves like that? Her constant need for control is suffocating!¡±


    Flint let out a weary sigh. ¡°You¡¯ve spent decades together. Are you really going to divorce her now?¡±


    Irritation simmered in Emmett¡¯s voice. ¡°I have to. If I let this go on, she¡¯ll destroy the whole family. Kenny had a good life with his wife, but Elsa just had to interfere. Even while Kenny¡¯s wife was pregnant, Elsa still tried to break them apart. A nurse told me that she shoved Kenny¡¯s wife on purpose. How did I not see how vicious she was before?¡±


    Flint shook his head. ¡°She has really crossed a line. Disliking someone is one thing, but she¡¯s got no right to harm them. Now, Kenny¡¯s fighting just to keep his wife safe, and from now on, he¡¯ll probably see Elsa as his enemy.¡±


    Emmett said, ¡°With a personality like hers, she¡¯d turn any household upside down. I¡¯ve had enough of living with her all these years. I can¡¯t take it anymore. You can¡¯t imagine what I¡¯ve endured all these years. If I don¡¯t bend to her will, she throws tantrums. Kenny¡¯s the only one who could tolerate her, and now, even he¡¯s had enough. She has managed to push everyone away.¡±


    Sulking in silence, Elsa sat by herself in the hospital room. Usually, she would have called her mother to unload her frustrations, but with her mother ill and preparing for surgery that afternoon, she was left without her usual confidante. Kenny had juste out of surgery, so he wasn¡¯t an option, either, and her daughter-inw was out of the question; she probably hated her now.


    That narrowed her options to Ethan.


    She was just about to call him when the door swung open, and he stepped in, his face dark with anger.


    Thirty minutes spent waiting outside the operating room and talking with medical staff had left him fully briefed on what had happened.


    ¡°How¡¯s Kenny, Ethan?¡± Elsa walked over and grabbed his arm anxiously.


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    Trying hard to contain his anger, Ethan pried her hand off and answered in a cold voice, ¡°He hasn¡¯te to yet, but the doctors said the operation went smoothly. They got to him quickly, and since he¡¯s still young, he should recover. We¡¯ll know more when he wakes up.¡±


    Elsa sat down with him on the sofa. ¡°Why are you being so cold to me? I didn¡¯t intend for any of this to happen. If Rosanna hadn¡¯t spoken so harshly, things wouldn¡¯t have escted to this. She knows I¡¯m Kenny¡¯s mother and still shows no respect to me.¡±


    Irritation shed in Ethan¡¯s eyes. Years of knowing Elsa had taught him that her favorite habit was shifting the me.


    ¡°Enough. Can you stay out of Kenny and Rosanna¡¯s affairs from now on?¡± he said.


    The suggestion didn¡¯t sit well with Elsa at all. ¡°How can you use me of interfering? I only want the best for Kenny. Rosannaes from an ordinary family; she¡¯s simply not a good match for Kenny. Look at your father and me, both holding prestigious positions in the military, and you¡¯re the world¡¯s richest man. Our family is privileged. Her family can¡¯tpare.¡±


    After a pause, she continued, ¡°Brenna, at least,es from a wealthy family; her mother¡¯s a university professor, and she carries herself with ss now, even though she was raised in the Barrett family. Rosanna is nothing like that. I absolutely refuse to ept her as part of our family.¡±


    .


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 Chapter 1065

    ?Chapter 1065:


    Ethan¡¯s anger only grew. Even with everything that had happened, his mother still refused to admit she was at fault.


    Every word out of Elsa¡¯s mouth grated on him as he looked at her coldly.


    Elsa¡¯s scowl deepened when she noticed that. ¡°Why are you staring at me like that? Am I wrong? Kenny always did as he was told before. He listened to me without question¡ªuntil Rosanna showed up in his life. Now, he fights me at every turn and even went behind my back to get married. Rosanna is to me for all of this!¡±


    She then muttered in a voice only she could hear, ¡°Rosanna is lucky that she didn¡¯t lose her child this time.¡±


    She gave a dramatic sigh, turning to Ethan. ¡°Your father¡¯s threatening to divorce me over all this. Rosanna is nothing but a disaster for this family. We can¡¯t let someone like her be part of our family.¡±


    Ethan knew about this. He had heard his father venting outside the operating room earlier but had thought he hadn¡¯t meant it.


    Now, hearing it from his mother, Ethan understood his father was serious about the divorce.


    Still, he had no intention of getting involved in his parents¡¯ issues. They could handle things however they wanted on their own.


    Elsa bristled at Ethan¡¯sck of reaction. ¡°Why aren¡¯t you saying anything? Are you even listening to me? Your father is actually talking about divorcing me!¡±


    Ethan said, ¡°If that¡¯s what he wants, so be it. I¡¯ve got more than enough properties to spare; you can live in one of them. And you are not short on money. Maybe splitting up is the best choice for both you and Dad.¡±


    ¡°Brenna is just unbearable, I¡¯m telling you. She is full of herself, shows no respect to others, and can¡¯t even manage a simple greeting when she sees me. I really dislike her. You¡¯d do better to pick someone else,¡± Elsa said, unable to let the topic go.


    Ethan kept his face cold. Once Elsa finally finished speaking, he got straight to the point. ¡°Rosanna nearly lost her baby, and Kenny ended up in surgery trying to save her. You really owe Rosanna an apology. The whole mess started because of you¡ª¡±


    Elsa cut him off with a shrill protest, raising her voice. ¡°Are you seriously asking me to apologize to Rosanna? For what? How is any of this my fault? I am just helping my son choose a suitable woman. What¡¯s wrong with me not agreeing to her marrying my son?¡±


    A look of disbelief crossed her face as she stared at Ethan.


    ?????????????? ???????????? ????: g????????¦Í??????©q?????


    She shook her head, unable to ept his reasoning. ¡°I can¡¯t understand what you¡¯re thinking. How am I to me? She was the one chasing after Kenny, convincing him to run away from his engagement ceremony and secretly marrying him. She¡¯s led you astray as well, and I haven¡¯t even started holding her ountable for this. Now, you expect me to apologize to her? Absolutely not. In fact, she should be the one kneeling and begging for my forgiveness.¡±


    Anticipating such a response from her, Ethan said, ¡°If you¡¯re set on not apologizing, then fine. Kenny and I won¡¯t force you. But knowing Kenny, after everything that¡¯s happened, I think you¡¯ll probably have a hard time seeing your daughter-inw and grandson in the future.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s temper red. ¡°What¡¯s that supposed to mean? Are you threatening me? Kenny is my son; how dare he not listen to me? If you think you can keep me away from my grandchild, you¡¯re dreaming. For all you know, Rosanna might not even carry the baby to term. Don¡¯t you dare try to scare me.¡±


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 Chapter 1066

    ?Chapter 1066:


    She shot Ethan a cold re, making it clear she didn¡¯t care about Rosanna¡¯s condition at all.


    Ethan was seething. ¡°If Rosanna weren¡¯t so physically resilient, she could have lost the baby. She was only here today for a checkup, thinking she might be pregnant. The holiday gave her a rare chance to see a doctor and visit Grandma. And look what happened¡ªyour actions nearly caused a tragedy. Still, you refuse to see that you are in the wrong. If you don¡¯t apologize to her, do you honestly believe you¡¯ll have the chance to see her again? Rosanna isn¡¯t someone who¡¯ll let you walk all over her.¡±


    No softness colored his words; Ethanid everything out with a hard edge.


    He continued, ¡°You don¡¯t have to go and apologize to Rosanna, but you¡¯re not wee by her and Kenny anymore. When Kenny¡¯s child is born, don¡¯t expect to be called Grandma.¡±


    With that, he stood up and strode away, leaving Elsa alone with her uneasy conscience.


    Swallowing her pride was no easy task. Elsa¡¯s stubbornness told her that elders owed no apologies to the young.


    Yet, as her guilt gnawed at her, she found herself lingering at the doorway to Rosanna¡¯s hospital room.


    Inside,ughter and conversation filled the space. The Mitchell women had all gathered, offering support for Rosanna. Ronald had even brought Ethan¡¯s grandmother over, wheeling her to the front of the crowd.


    Positioned right by Rosanna¡¯s side, Belen leaned in with genuine warmth. ¡°Rosanna, you¡¯ve endured so much. The me for today falls on me; I failed as a mother. I¡¯m here to apologize to you on Elsa¡¯s behalf. She was wrong, and I want you to know how sorry I feel. That child you carry belongs to the Mitchell family, and everyone here will stand behind you¡­¡±


    Elsa overheard the exchange and fumed. She reached for the doorknob, intent on barging in, when Brenna suddenly opened the door and emerged, Ethan trailing close behind.


    Sharp words flew from Elsa¡¯s mouth as she looked at Brenna. ¡°Was it you who brought my mother here? You told her about what had happened? Don¡¯t you know she¡¯s injured? She needs surgery this afternoon. Who are you to interfere in my family¡¯s business?¡±


    Her voice dropped to a harsh whisper as she scolded Brenna in the corridor.


    ?????????????????? ?????????????? ??????????: ?????????¦Í???????????????


    Originally, the incident had been kept from Belen. Ronald wouldn¡¯t have said anything, nor would Bess. At the moment, the rest of the Mitchell family didn¡¯t know about Belen¡¯s hospitalization, so Elsa believed that Brenna was the only one who could have told Belen about the matter.


    A chilling glint appeared in Brenna¡¯s eyes, her stare so cold that it sent a shiver down Elsa, making her lose her confidence as she spoke.


    Brenna said, ¡°What proof do you have that I brought Belen here? You¡¯re making baseless usations. And even if I did, so what? You were wrong in the matter, and Belen clearly has more sense than you do.¡±


    Elsa bristled, her pride stung. ¡°How dare you talk to me like this? You don¡¯t want to marry my son anymore? Is that why you have the audacity to treat me with this attitude? I will hit¡ª¡±


    She raised her hand to strike, but Brenna caught her wrist and flung it away, though she didn¡¯t use much force out of respect for Ethan.


    .


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    .

 Chapter 1067

    ?Chapter 1067:


    ¡°Ouch!¡± A small gasp escaped Elsa as she saw Ethan standing by, his expression indifferent. The sight only made her angrier¡ªboth her sons, in her eyes, were useless, controlled by the women they loved. Watching Ethan stay silent while she was rebuffed left her simmering with resentment.


    Her frustration spilled over, and she began to sob loudly, her voice echoing down the hospital corridor.


    Without a hint of hurry, Brenna pulled out her phone and began recording her.


    With a cold tone, Ethan said to Elsa, ¡°You are a well-known figure, and this is a public ce. If you¡¯re set on causing a spectacle, then go ahead¡ªwail, throw yourself on the floor, p your own face¡­ I won¡¯t interfere, but remember, you¡¯ll be the one left humiliated.¡±


    Everyone except Rosanna emerged from the room, including Ronald, who wheeled Belen out in her wheelchair. They all stood by the open door.


    ¡°Shut up and stop making a scene,¡± Belen growled in a low voice.


    Elsa was stunned. ¡°Mom, did you hear how she spoke to me just now? She was threatening me!¡±


    Belen ignored her, her tone cutting as she disregarded Elsa¡¯s pride. ¡°Go in there and apologize to your daughter-inw.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s face twisted with indignation. It was bad enough that Brenna, an outsider, had crossed her, and worse that her son had shown her no respect. But for Belen to also take an outsider¡¯s side? That was too much to bear. ¡°She disobeyed me first! Who gave her the right to marry my son without my approval? I¡¯m not apologizing to her!¡± Elsa snapped, turning to storm off.


    Belen trembled with fury. From the hospital bed, Rosanna¡¯s cold and firm voice echoed. ¡°Belen, I don¡¯t need her apology.¡±


    Her resolve was unshakable¡ªshe had already decided that without a genuine apology, she would never step foot in the Mitchell family home again, nor would her child, who would never acknowledge Elsa as their grandmother. Rosanna wouldn¡¯t give in, especially not to someone as unreasonable as Elsa.


    Ronald¡¯s face darkened as he chased after Elsa, yanking her back. ¡°Look at what you¡¯ve done to Mom! She¡¯s ill, and you¡¯re making her angry!¡±


    Elsa winced, her arm stinging from his grip. Frustration surged as she nced at the crowd nearby, all waiting to see her humiliated. ¡°Mom knows my temper. She¡¯ll get over it soon. Let go!¡±


    ?????????????? ???????????????????? ???????? g???????¦Í??????©o?????


    She didn¡¯t intend to apologize and lose face in front of so many people.


    Belen, witnessing Elsa¡¯s defiance, hurled the banana she had been holding in her hand toward Elsa in a fit of rage. The banana had been peeled by Rosanna earlier, but Belen hadn¡¯t had the time to eat it yet.


    It struck Elsa square in the face. ¡°Apologize!¡± Belen roared.


    Belen had received anesthesia for her fracture; she didn¡¯t feel much pain, just anger.


    Elsa didn¡¯t want her mother to get too upset, which wouldn¡¯t be good for her health. But she also didn¡¯t want to apologize. She just stood there, feeling like she was in a dilemma.


    Ronald dragged her over. ¡°Say you¡¯re sorry.¡±


    Reluctantly, mindful of Belen¡¯s condition, Elsa muttered to Rosanna, ¡°I mishandled things today. I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    .


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    .

 Chapter 1068

    ?Chapter 1068:


    Her words were grudging, her reluctance obvious to everyone.


    Rosanna, a skilled pilot with a sharp mind, saw right through Elsa.


    Elsa had pushed her down the stairs, endangering her unborn child¡¯s life. If Kenny hadn¡¯t risked everything to save her, she might have gotten seriously injured.


    Rosanna had no patience for Elsa¡¯s empty words.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t mean it, don¡¯t bother. I¡¯m not forcing you to apologize,¡± she said coolly.


    Elsa¡¯s temper red. ¡°I¡¯m your elder; I¡¯m humbling myself to apologize to you. How dare you not ept my apology? Who do you think you are? Is this the manner your family taught you? Someone as rude as you doesn¡¯t deserve to be my daughter-inw!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to be your daughter-inw. I¡¯m just Kenny¡¯s wife. I¡¯ll never step into your family¡¯s home,¡± Rosanna dered firmly.


    Ronald felt resigned. Rosanna was exceptional but fiercely proud.


    Still, he knew that Elsa was at fault, so he scolded her, saying, ¡°Watch your attitude. Is that how you apologize? What exactly did you do wrong? Say it clearly.¡±


    Elsa huffed, ring at the disdainful expressions of her two sisters-inw and two nieces. Normally, they treated her well in front of others, but now, no one defended her.


    Sierra spoke up. ¡°That¡¯s no way to apologize. Even if you don¡¯t like your daughter-inw, pushing her down the stairs is out of line. Only asking you to apologize is letting you off easy.¡±


    ¡°Is that something you should say?¡± Elsa retorted. ¡°Whose side are you on? You are my family!¡±


    Sierra¡¯s look grew colder. ¡°I¡¯m on the side of what¡¯s right. You really crossed a line this time.¡±


    Lois said, ¡°If I were Rosanna, I¡¯d have pped you a few times to let off steam.¡±


    Elsa sneered viciously at Rosanna, saying, ¡°You¡¯ve got some skills, huh? Winning over Sierra and Lois so fast. Don¡¯t think their support means I¡¯ll ept you. Who even knows whose kid you¡¯re carrying? A miscarriage would serve you right!¡±


    Just then, Rosanna swiftly walked over and pped Elsa hard, the sound ringing out as a red mark bloomed on her cheek.


    ¡°How dare you hit me?¡± Elsa eximed.


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    A sudden ze of anger erupted from Elsa as she jabbed an using finger at Rosanna and shouted, ¡°Did you all just see that? She dared to p me! I am her mother-inw! How could she do that to me? Sierra, Lois, will you still keep defending her after this?¡±


    She practically roared, her outrage intense.


    Shock swept through the crowd. People stared at Rosanna, wide-eyed and speechless, their disbelief hanging in the air. Yet, after those few stunned seconds, not a single person spoke up to scold Rosanna or side with Elsa.


    Brenna had expected Ethan to step in, certain he¡¯d be furious with anyone who hurt his mother. ncing his way, she realized Ethan wasn¡¯t about to confront Rosanna. He just furrowed his brows, feeling the situation was spiraling out of control.


    Brenna said to Elsa, ¡°You brought this on yourself! You hurled insults at her, shoved her down the stairs, and nearly caused her to have a miscarriage! And now, you want to y the victim when she ps you in return? If you ask me, you got off easy. If it had been me, I would¡¯ve sent you flying down the stairs to make you suffer the same!¡±


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1069

    ?Chapter 1069:


    Fury shed in Brenna¡¯s eyes as she stepped in front of Rosanna, making it clear she was ready to stand up for her, even if she might offend Ethan.


    Brenna knew if Elsa could attack Rosanna today, there was nothing stopping her from turning on her next. Protecting Rosanna now was the only way to make sure she didn¡¯t end up as the next target.


    If Ethan wanted to break up with her because of this, forcing her to apologize to Elsa, then she would never get back together with him.


    She refused to get trapped in these never-ending family battles.


    Elsa, face twisted with anger, spat, ¡°Who do you think you are? If you dare say another word, I¡¯ll make sure my son dumps you on the spot. You¡¯re not even part of our family yet, but you already think you can boss me around? As if I¡¯d ever let you do that!¡±


    Swinging her attention to Ethan, she continued, ¡°Ethan, are you just going to stand there? She¡¯s ready to hit me now, and if you marry her, she¡¯ll be the death of me! I¡¯m warning you, if you don¡¯t teach her a lesson today, I will cut all ties with you!¡±


    Ethan mped his mouth shut, refusing to say a single word. Sometimes, he wondered why he ended up with a mother so unreasonable.


    Belen couldn¡¯t take it anymore. ¡°Enough! I can¡¯t believe I raised a daughter like you. This is so humiliating. Ronald, get her out of here. Don¡¯t let her embarrass us,¡± she barked, her patience worn thin.


    ¡°Mom, can¡¯t you see they¡¯re all ganging up on me?¡± Elsa said, unable to understand why everyone was against her. She believed she had every right to keep her daughter-inw and future daughter-inw in line. Brenna and Rosanna both needed someone to put them in their ce, or they would walk all over her.


    Ronald wasted no time. He caught Elsa by the arm, ready to drag her away. ¡°Bess, wheel your grandmother out of the room. Elsa, you really should leave.¡±


    Elsa struggled, shouting, ¡°Don¡¯t touch me! Ethan, are you really just going to stand there and let them treat your mother like this? After everything I¡¯ve done for you, this is how you repay me? I don¡¯t need a son like you. Don¡¯t ever call me your mother again!¡±


    Realizing there was no calming her down, Ethan followed her out, determined to speak to her alone. If she kept up this behavior, she¡¯d end up driving away the only woman he¡¯d ever wanted.


    Meanwhile, Brenna gently settled Rosanna back onto the bed and adjusted the needle in her hand.


    ???????????? ???????????? ???? ?????????¦Í?????????????


    The rest of the Mitchell family wasted no time making their exit. They had fulfilled their obligation to visit and apologize, and one thing was clear to them: Rosanna was no pushover.


    And with Brenna standing beside her, they were formidable¡ªenough to give Elsa a hard time.


    With their own thoughts swirling, each family member offered Rosanna a quick goodbye before leaving.


    After they had left, Rosanna finally broke her silence. She looked at Brenna and let out a heavy sigh. ¡°Don¡¯t let their little show of concern fool you. None of them can stand Elsa, either, but when things got heated, no one stood up for me except you. Thank you, Brenna. But after today, Elsa will probably be even more opposed to you and Ethan being together.¡±


    Brenna couldn¡¯t have cared less about that. She admired Rosanna, who wouldn¡¯tpromise easily just to be with Kenny.


    ¡°It¡¯s no big deal. She tried to break you and Kenny apart, too, but you¡¯re still together,¡± she said.


    .


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 Chapter 1070

    ?Chapter 1070:


    A knowing smile crossed Rosanna¡¯s face. ¡°At worst, we¡¯ll just need to avoid her in the future.¡±


    Brenna just shrugged, unfazed. ¡°Why should we avoid her? She¡¯s always looking for a fight anyway. We shouldn¡¯tpromise. When Ethan let me move mypany to his office building, Elsa barged in and demanded I pack up my things and leave. I handed her the lease contract and told her, if she really wanted me out, she needed to pay the ten-billion-dor penalty first.¡±


    Brenna let out augh. ¡°That shut her up fast. She stormed off with nothing left to say. If I¡¯d given in, she¡¯d still be trying to make things difficult for me. People like her only get bolder when you back down. If you hadn¡¯t stood up for yourself and forced her to apologize, she would have made you divorce Kenny on the spot.¡±


    Rosanna nodded in agreement. ¡°You are right. Even when she apologized, she looked so reluctant. So, I didn¡¯t ept her apology. If Kenny sided with her, I¡¯d divorce him.¡±


    Elsa was led back to Belen¡¯s hospital room, her expression clouded with fury.


    More than once, she red at Ethan.


    Ethan couldn¡¯t have cared less, dismissing her gesture.


    Meanwhile, Ronald, seeing how angry Belen was and worried about her health, tried tofort her.


    ¡°Mom, please don¡¯t get upset. I¡¯ll make sure Elsa doesn¡¯t do anything reckless from now on. You need to rest and get better.¡±


    Disappointment weighed heavily in Belen¡¯s voice. ¡°I just can¡¯t believe it. How did Elsa turn out like this? She pushed her own daughter-inw down the stairs and almost caused her to have a miscarriage. That is outrageous!¡±


    A weary sigh escaped her. ¡°Your father always wanted a daughter. Once Elsa came along, he spoiled her to no end, never saying no. I guess this is the result of his pampering.¡±


    Ronald wondered how he couldfort Belen so she¡¯d be ready for surgeryter that day.


    Ethan was also in a bad mood. Just then, his phone vibrated with a message from Emmett, instructing him not to let Elsa go home.


    She wasn¡¯t wee there anymore.


    ???????? ???????????????? ???????????????????? ???????? g???????¦Í????????£®?????


    Ethan frowned at the text, the seriousness of Emmett¡¯s anger sinking in.


    He didn¡¯t tell Elsa about this, nor did he reply to Emmett.


    As she stepped out of the elevator, Elsa¡¯s phone rang. Emmett¡¯s name shed on the screen.


    Elsa¡¯s voice was clipped when she picked up the call. ¡°Didn¡¯t you say we¡¯re getting a divorce? Why bother calling me?¡±


    Emmett sat beside Kenny¡¯s hospital bed, the weight of worry pressing down on him. Kenny¡¯s head injury might end his career as a pilot.


    So, Emmett held Elsa responsible for everything that had happened and wanted nothing more to do with her.


    ¡°I¡¯ll pack your things and have them sent to you. Don¡¯te back to the house. I will send you the divorce papers,¡± Emmett said.


    ¡°So you¡¯re kicking me out? You think that matters to me? I¡¯ve got two sons. I¡¯ll just stay with one of them. I also don¡¯t want to see you again!¡± Elsa eximed.


    Emmett¡¯s temper snapped, his voice like ice. ¡°You really think I¡¯ll let you move in with our sons, just so you can keep hurting them? Not happening. You¡¯ve isted yourself, Elsa. No one wants to put up with you anymore. Do you honestly think Kenny or his wife would want you around? And Ethan? He¡¯s never listened to you, not once. You¡¯ve pushed everyone away. Can¡¯t you see?¡±


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1071

    ?Chapter 1071:


    Elsa snapped back, not backing down. ¡°Enough with this nonsense! My sons are adults. They¡¯ll make their own choices about me, and it¡¯s none of your business! You talk about me being controlling, but you¡¯re just as bad!¡±


    While the shouting match carried on, Ethan, Bess, and Ronald quietly rolled Belen back to her hospital room, pretending not to hear it.


    Not long after, Elsa came in, still reeling from the harsh words and the p she¡¯d endured. Tears streamed down her cheeks.


    She turned to Ethan, voice trembling. ¡°Your father¡¯s thrown me out. He won¡¯t even let me back in the house. I don¡¯t have anywhere else to go. Can I stay with you for a while?¡±


    Ethan looked at her for a long moment, his face unreadable. Bess quietly pulled out a pack of tissues and offered one to Elsa.


    Elsa dabbed at her eyes with the tissue, but her tears wouldn¡¯t stop. In her mind, nobody had it worse than she did. Everyone med her, and even her own sons wouldn¡¯t stand up for her. She felt so aggrieved.


    Ethan answered in a detached voice, ¡°I¡¯ve got plenty of ces you can stay. Pick whichever one you like.¡±


    The meaning behind his words was that he didn¡¯t want to live with her.


    Elsa¡¯s crying stopped in an instant. ¡°Where are you staying?¡±


    Ethan didn¡¯t want Elsa to live with him and affect his rtionship with Brenna.


    ¡°I¡¯ve got plenty of ces to live. You don¡¯t need to know,¡± he replied.


    Sensing his reluctance, Elsa pushed harder. ¡°I¡¯m living with you. I¡¯m not getting any younger, you know. My blood pressure¡¯s through the roof, and I need to take my medicine every day. What if something happens when I¡¯m all alone? You¡¯d let me just die in some empty house?¡±


    Ethan massaged his temples, resigned. ¡°I¡¯ll hire a full-time maid to take care of you.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not the same. A maid isn¡¯t family,¡± Elsa fired back. She suddenly realized something. ¡°I¡¯m not about to just let Emmett chase me out of my own house. I have just as much right to that ce as he does. I want my half of everything he has. He can¡¯t just get rid of me easily!¡±


    Ethan realized she would never back down without a fight.


    Still, he had no interest in getting dragged into his parents¡¯ mess. They could argue and fight as much as they wanted.


    ???????????????????? ?????????????? ???????? g????????¦Í?????????????


    Elsa peeled off the bandages from her leg and head, leaving behind nothing more than some Band-Aids.


    ¡°I am still worried about Kenny. I need to go and check on him,¡± Elsa said, already heading for the door.


    Ethan quickly blocked her path. ¡°Don¡¯t. Dad, Uncle Cason, and Uncle Flint are all with Kenny now. If you show up, they¡¯ll just scold you.¡±


    Elsa bristled. ¡°Why should I be the one to get scolded? So Kenny¡¯s injury is my fault? He wouldn¡¯t be in this mess if he hadn¡¯t tried to protect that woman. It¡¯s all that woman¡¯s fault!¡±


    Ethan¡¯s patience ran out. ¡°I¡¯ve had enough of you. Why are you so unreasonable?¡± He nted himself firmly in front of the door, making it clear he wouldn¡¯t let her leave.


    Bess flicked the used bandages into the trash can before tugging Elsa back. ¡°Aunt Elsa, Grandma needs looking after, too. It¡¯s noon, and she hasn¡¯t eaten anything. Let¡¯s go grab her some food.¡±


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 Chapter 1072

    ?Chapter 1072:


    Her words gave Elsa an out, halting her insistence on seeing Kenny.


    When Ethan reached Kenny¡¯s hospital room, Kenny¡¯s eyes had just fluttered open, meeting the anxious faces surrounding his bed. The sight of their concern jogged his memory of the moments before he had cked out, and worry surged through him. ¡°Where¡¯s Rosanna?¡±


    A collective sigh of relief swept through the room. Kenny¡¯s concern about Rosanna showed his head was fine.


    Emmett grinned, his voice bright. ¡°She¡¯s okay, and the baby¡¯s fine, too. She¡¯s getting an IV in the maternity ward, should be done in about an hour.¡± Kenny¡¯s head was freshly shaved, but it suited him stylishly.


    ¡°Good. My mom didn¡¯t give her a hard time, did she?¡±


    He couldn¡¯t shake his worry about the tension between his mother and his wife.


    Emmett¡¯s face darkened slightly. ¡°No way. With all of us present, we wouldn¡¯t let your mother do that. Your wife is carrying our family¡¯s child, after all.¡±


    Cason chimed in, reassuring Kenny. ¡°Just focus on getting better. Don¡¯t stress. Rosanna wille to see you once her IV¡¯s done.¡±


    Over in the maternity ward, Brenna had nned to head back to thepany for lunch, but with no one else to stay with Rosanna, she decided to stick around and went to grab some food.


    By one o¡¯clock, Rosanna¡¯s IV was finished, and Belen was wheeled into surgery. Brenna and Ethan waited outside the operating room together.


    Waiting for the procedure to end was tedious, so Brenna vented to Ellie about the drama between Elsa and Rosanna through messages.


    Ellie, in response, talked about crossing paths with Fay at the studio. Fay had bragged about her uing wedding to Jayceon in just over two months. She had ced an order for a ten-million-dor wedding dress in her studio.


    It felt like she was showing off to Ellie on purpose.


    After more than an hour, Belen was back in her hospital room, and Brenna finally left with Ethan.


    Ethan¡¯s day was packed, and the morning¡¯s chaos had thrown off his schedule. He also had a dinner meeting lined up.


    He dropped Brenna off at her ce before heading to a high-end restaurant to meet Waldo about investment matters.


    ?????????? ????????????????????: g?????????????????????


    Back at home, Brenna copsed onto the couch, drained from the day¡¯s events. Julia handed her a ss of water.


    Brenna noticed several chefs bustling in the kitchen, the dining room already set with an unusuallyvish spread. ¡°Are we expecting guests today?¡± she asked.


    Julia¡¯s face showed resignation. ¡°Yes, Rosie and Maxley are stopping by to talk with Dalton about a concert in Plieca.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s mood soured at the mention of Rosie¡¯s visit. Despite her disdain for the Harper family, Rosie still put on an act and wanted to visit them.


    ¡°Couldn¡¯t they meet somewhere else?¡± Brenna grumbled to Julia. ¡°Did Dalton agree to this?¡±


    Julia sighed, equally frustrated. ¡°At first, your parents were against Dalton doing a concert in Plieca, especially after you almost got into trouble there. But Rosie insisted that his TV show¡¯s poprity in Plieca makes it a golden opportunity for a concert, saying that he could make a lot of money from it.¡±


    ¡°Dalton doesn¡¯t care about the money,¡± Brenna said, finishing her water, the aroma of the food sharpening her hunger.


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 Chapter 1073

    ?Chapter 1073:


    Noticing her hunger, Julia brought over a te of food and replied, ¡°Your parents said the same thing, but Rosie kept pushing, saying it would boost Dalton¡¯s career. She went on and on and eventually got your parents and Dalton to agree. She even stayed for lunch today, saying she missed home-cooked meals.¡±


    ¡°She is such a hypocrite,¡± Brenna muttered, her appetite easing after a few bites.


    Soon after, Giselle returned, carrying two shopping bags¡ªone from a jewelry store, the other from a luxury brand.


    ¡°Mom, what got you in a mood for shopping today?¡± Brenna asked casually. Giselle sank onto the couch. ¡°I wasn¡¯t in the mood, but Rosie said she wanted to offer Dalton some resources, so I had to make an effort to repay her. Our family doesn¡¯t need the money, but Dalton wants to have a concert in Plieca.¡±


    Brenna nced into the bags, uninterested.


    As Brenna and Giselle talked, a sharp car horn cut through the air outside. It was Rosie¡¯s and Maxley¡¯s cars, adorned with the Plieca royal family¡¯s crest. Though just two vehicles, they made quite a show of it. Bodyguards from the trailing car came out to personally open the doors for them.


    ¡°What, does she need the whole world to know she¡¯s back, to show everyone that she has be part of the royal family?¡± Giselle muttered to Brenna, her annoyance clear at Rosie¡¯s theatrics.


    Despite their irritation, they headed to the entrance to wee Rosie and Maxley.


    Julia, always sharp, slipped upstairs to wake Dalton from his nap.


    The hour waste, and despite knowing guests were at the house, neither Shepard nor Ernst hade back.


    Brenna figured they were dodging Rosie on purpose.


    Rosie was dressed in a burgundy short knit top adorned with sparkling rhinestones that glimmered under the lights. She paired it with a matching knee-length knit skirt, also embellished with rhinestones, and wore small leather shoes in the same color. Her chestnut waves tumbled down her back, andrge diamond earrings lent her a refined air.


    Compared to her time at the Harper estate, she now radiated a mature, stately allure, her gaze carrying the calm authority of someone from a royal family.


    Brenna suspected she had taken etiquette lessons to polish her demeanor.


    ???????? ?????????? ?????????????? ???? ?????????¦Í??????©q?????


    Maxley, in a sharply tailored ck suit with impably styled hair, stood tall with keen eyes. When he saw Giselle and Brenna, a flicker of displeasure crossed his face.


    As a prince of Plieca, he had expected the Harper men, especially Dalton, whom he hade to discuss a concert with, to greet him personally. Yet, Dalton hadn¡¯t even shown up to wee him.


    The situation made him feel like he was currying favor with the Harper family.


    He and Rosie were the ones offering opportunities to the Harpers, so he believed they should present him withvish gifts. But now, they seemed to barely register his presence.


    Rosie also sensed theck of importance ced on her, yet she maintained a courteous smile and politely asked Giselle, ¡°Where are Dad and Ernst? Why aren¡¯t they here? They were home when I stopped by at noon.¡±


    She had a hunch they were deliberately avoiding her.


    Giselle ushered Rosie and Maxley inside, exining, ¡°They swung by at noon to change their clothes. They¡¯ve got key meetings this afternoon and evening, probably dining with clients now.¡±


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    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 1074

    ?Chapter 1074:


    Brenna¡¯s voice was clipped as she said, ¡°It¡¯s a weekday. Of course, they¡¯re tied up. Don¡¯t make a big deal out of it. You¡¯re here to talk about the concert with Dalton, right? My dad and Ernst have no part in the matter. Does my whole family need to show up to wee you for something so trivial?¡±


    Maxley felt deeply offended, standing hesitantly at the threshold of the Harper family¡¯s living room, reluctant to enter. Theck of respect from the Harpers, who barely acknowledged his royal status, stung sharply. As a distinguished guest, he had expected avish reception befitting his title, yet he was met with indifference. Disheartened, he even contemted abandoning the visit entirely. The living room was just like when he had seen it earlier that day, with no staff assembled to offer a proper greeting.


    Descending the staircase, Dalton appeared in a casual white silk blouse and dark pants, his disheveled hair betraying ack of effort. ¡°Apologies, I slept in,¡± he mumbled casually.


    Maxley¡¯s face tightened with irritation. ¡°As a prince of Plieca, I deserve the respect of an honored guest. This informality is deeply disappointing.¡±


    His opinion of the Harper family soured further; their behavior and attitude toward him were terrible.


    Giselle, unimpressed, retorted, ¡°We¡¯re not from Plieca, so our traditions for hosting may not align with your expectations. We view you as family, a nephew-inw. If that¡¯s not eptable, perhaps you should leave.¡±


    Rosie, gently tugging Maxley¡¯s arm, tried to diffuse the tension. ¡°Let¡¯s not make a fuss. This is my childhood home, and Giselle raised me with a mother¡¯s love and care. Me returning here doesn¡¯t call for formalities.¡±


    Dalton extended a hand in greeting, but Maxley pointedly ignored it, fueling Dalton¡¯s annoyance. Without another word, Dalton strode to the dining room, taking a seat without waiting for Maxley.


    Observing Maxley¡¯s lingering displeasure, Rosie whispered to him, ¡°Remember why we¡¯re here.¡±


    Maxley¡¯s expression softened slightly. Far from securing the throne, he needed more allies to bolster his standing.


    His reputation had suffered recently due to a scandal involving the Empire Hotel fire, with public usations of arson tarnishing his name. To rebuild his image, he aimed to rally influential figures, particrly young people, to support him.


    Dalton was a highly influential star who could help him achieve this goal.


    ?????????? ???????? ??????????: ?????????¦Í?????????????


    Swallowing his pride, Maxley nced at Dalton, now seated and eating, and felt like he had no choice but to tter him in hopes of convincing him to perform a concert in Plieca.


    ¡°Everyone, take a seat,¡± Giselle said coolly, her voice devoid of warmth.


    As the group settled at the table, Brenna, who had spent the day at the hospital, remained quiet. Exhausted and famished, she focused solely on her meal, oblivious to the strained atmosphere.


    Rosie was also angry with the Harper family members. She hade to make amends, yet they treated her like a stranger.


    Forcing a smile, she turned to Dalton. ¡°The drama you starred in is topping the charts in Plieca. Now¡¯s the perfect moment to capitalize on that fame with a concert. The sooner you can hold a concert there, the better.¡±


    ¡°Plieca is a goldmine, Dalton. It has nearly ten million people, a booming economy, and folks there love to spend. If you hold a concert there, you¡¯re guaranteed at least three million in earnings,¡± Rosie offered her analysis of the Plieca market for Dalton with confidence.


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 Chapter 1075

    ?Chapter 1075:


    She was convinced she was doing Dalton a big favor.


    But Dalton barely nced up, more focused on his meal than anything she had to say.


    Maxley, clearly annoyed by Dalton¡¯s indifference, spoke up. ¡°Mr. Harper, we¡¯re talking about a partnership that benefits you just as much as us. Why act so uninterested? It¡¯s honestly pretty rude. Do you have any idea how much work we¡¯ve put into organizing this concert? A little respect wouldn¡¯t hurt.¡±


    Doubt flickered in his eyes. He wasn¡¯t convinced Dalton wanted to partner with him. ¡°Let¡¯s be honest, this isn¡¯t something thates around every day. You¡¯re not a trained singer; your range is limited, and honestly, the only reason you have a shot at holding a concert in Plieca is because we opened the door for you. You should know that.¡± His tone was filled with frustration.


    Dalton, however, couldn¡¯t care less. ¡°Then I won¡¯t do it. Don¡¯t trouble yourselves preparing for it.¡±


    Dalton didn¡¯t bother sugarcoating his words. ¡°Let¡¯s be real here. You wouldn¡¯t be pushing this concert so hard unless there was something big in it for you. People don¡¯t work this hard just out of kindness.¡±


    Disdain practically radiated from him, and no one could miss it.


    Rosie was seething. How could Maxley say those things? Hadn¡¯t they agreed to a gentler approach? She gave him a look, signaling him to stop talking. Why was he so quick to lose his cool just because Dalton was a little cold?


    She was really mad at Maxley.


    Still, she managed to keep her tone steady, forcing a friendly smile. ¡°Dalton,e on, don¡¯t talk like that. We really do have your best interests at heart. Performing in Plieca could extend your influence in Akira, and it¡¯s a big step for your career internationally, don¡¯t you think?¡±


    Dalton arched a brow, ncing between Rosie and Maxley. ¡°Of course, there are upsides for me. But let¡¯s be honest. What are you hoping to get out of this concert?¡±


    Years in the entertainment industry had taught him that nothing ever happened without an angle. Nobody did favors just for the sake of it.


    ¡°I consider you family. I just want to help you achieve more,¡± Rosie dodged the question, her smile never faltering. ¡°Your parents treated me like their own before. Isn¡¯t it right for me to give something back to the family?¡±


    ???????????????? ????????: g????????¦Í????????????


    Dalton shook his head. ¡°I¡¯m not interested in doing a concert there. Plieca isn¡¯t that big, and after everyone takes their cut, I¡¯d walk away with maybe about four hundred thousand. If you think I care about that kind of money, you¡¯ve got the wrong idea.¡±


    Rosie found herself speechless. The truth was, the Harper family¡¯s wealth was staggering, and Dalton¡¯s shares in the Harper Group brought in billions in dividends every year. For him, a few hundred thousand was pocket change, hardly worth a second thought.


    ¡°That¡¯s not the point. Plieca is a key yer in Akira. Performing there is about expanding your global reputation, not just making money. We¡¯ll go all out with the publicity and boost your influence. What do you say?¡± she said.


    ¡°I¡¯m not agreeing to anything until you¡¯re upfront with me. If you¡¯re not going to be honest, I¡¯m not interested.¡± Dalton was unimpressed. He set his fork down and looked over at Brenna and his mother. ¡°Mom, Brenna, are you finished eating? How about we go for a walk outside?¡±


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 Chapter 1076

    ?Chapter 1076:


    ¡°Yeah. Let¡¯s go.¡± Brenna, fed up with Rosie¡¯s charade, nodded right away. As Dalton stood, Rosie¡¯sposure finally cracked. Panic shed across her face. ¡°Wait! Fine, I¡¯ll spill. I want Maxley to perform a song and give a speech at your concert to gather support for his campaign for the throne.¡±


    Now, the real negotiation had begun, but Brenna wanted no part of it. She leaned over to Giselle and whispered, ¡°Let¡¯s get out of here for a while, Mom.¡± Giselle gently set her fork down and offered a calm smile. ¡°You all carry on without us. We¡¯ll take a walk.¡±


    Rosie shifted uneasily in her seat, realizing Giselle had no intention of getting tangled up in this and wouldn¡¯t help her convince Dalton.


    Dalton might not have been involved in the family¡¯s business, but he had an uncanny ability to see through people¡¯s motives and spot a shady deal from a mile away.


    His rtionship with Rosie had never been particrly warm. While Ernst had adored Rosie, Dalton and Rosie had shed many times as kids. He had never hesitated to use her of being maniptive, and Rosie still remembered everything clearly.


    This was why she had chosen to negotiate with Dalton directly at home instead of through his manager, hoping Giselle would help persuade him.


    ¡°I¡¯d like to talk to you a bit more. Can you stay a little longer?¡± Rosie said to Giselle, a bit panicked.


    But Giselle responded coolly and politely, ¡°I¡¯ll step out for a bit. Go ahead with your discussion without me. I¡¯ll stay out of it.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re really not much help here, since neither of us knows how the entertainment world works. Maybe Dalton¡¯s manager should join you?¡± Brenna said.


    Dalton agreed with a nod, saying, ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s probably for the best. I¡¯ll give my manager a call now.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t bother. It¡¯s only a small concert. You don¡¯t actually have that many fans in Plieca,¡± said Rosie. A rush of panic sent her hurrying over to Dalton. She snatched his phone and put it aside.


    She let out a breath and said, ¡°This whole thing is just between us. You¡¯ll be performing under your own name, but we¡¯re not actually promoting you. All we want is for your influence to bring in some votes for Maxley. If your manager finds out, he¡¯ll never let this happen.¡±


    Brenna rolled her eyes and scoffed, ¡°So, Dalton¡¯s concert is just to help Maxley gather more votes? Rosie, you never run out of ways to get what you want, even if it means using your own family.¡±


    ???????? ???????? ???????????????????? ? ??????????¦Í??????©q??????


    Her gaze then flicked to Dalton. ¡°You can make your own choice. Mom and I are going to get some air.¡±


    Rosie clung to Giselle¡¯s arm, her voice soft and desperate. ¡°Mom, Dalton¡¯s probably going to refuse. Could you please talk to him for me? Maxley and I really need his support.¡±


    A sharp shake of Giselle¡¯s head followed. ¡°I also don¡¯t want him to agree. Why would I convince him to agree?¡±


    Disappointment filled her face as she looked at Rosie, who would scheme against her own family just to help Maxley.


    Did the Harper family mean nothing to her but a resource to exploit?


    Giselle now felt that all those years of raising Rosie were for nothing.


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 Chapter 1077

    ?Chapter 1077:


    Letting go of Rosie¡¯s hand, Giselle walked away with Brenna.


    While they walked, Giselle seethed. ¡°Every thought in her head is another plot, and now, she wants to use my son. After everything we did for her, is this how she repays us? Your father cared for her as if she were his own daughter, yet she remains so ungrateful. If Dalton¡¯s help is all she wants, why can¡¯t she just be honest about it instead of scheming to make him help her? That is outrageous!¡±


    Brenna replied, ¡°Dalton¡¯s not going to agree. We¡¯re not in need of money, and we won¡¯t let her use us. Honestly, I¡¯d rather she stoppeding over. No wonder Dad and Ernst stayed away from home today; they probably didn¡¯t want to see her.¡±


    Together, they kept airing their frustrations about Rosie.


    Walking further along themunity road, they spotted someone familiar up ahead. A woman was walking toward them.


    A quiet groan escaped Brenna. ¡°Great, it¡¯s her again,¡± she muttered after recognizing Elsa.


    The street wasn¡¯t wide enough to avoid Elsa, so crossing paths was inevitable. Brenna clearly wasn¡¯t interested in talking to her, and Elsa didn¡¯t want to say anything to Brenna.


    Elsa, visiting this ce for the first time, hade to see Ethan but couldn¡¯t figure out which house he lived in. She¡¯d been stopping people to ask for directions before finally finding her way here.


    She caught sight of Brenna and chose to keep walking, offering no sign of recognition.


    Old memories tugged at Giselle¡¯s conscience, and she almost greeted Elsa out of habit. However, when she noticed Elsa¡¯s arrogant expression, she closed her mouth and looked away.


    Giselle said to Brenna in anger, ¡°Now she won¡¯t even say hello. I guess she really can¡¯t stand the idea of you and Ethan being together.¡±


    Brenna nodded. ¡°She¡¯s asked me more than once to break up with Ethan. The second she heard we split, she tried to set Ethan up with Gracie. Of course, that blew up when she found out Gracie was already married. You should have seen how mad she was at that time,¡± she said, a littleugh breaking through. Satisfaction washed over Giselle. She believed Elsa got exactly what she deserved.


    ¡°Serves her right. By the way, what is she doing here? Is she here to visit Ethan?¡± Giselle said, curiosity coloring her voice.


    Brenna chuckled and shared the gossip from earlier that day. ¡°She¡¯s not just visiting him; she¡¯s seeking refuge. You wouldn¡¯t believe what happened today. Kenny brought his wife to visit Belen, and Elsa pushed her down the stairs. Kenny fell trying to save his wife¡­¡±


    ???????? ???????????? ???? ??????????¦Í?????????????


    She told Giselle the day¡¯s events.


    Shock froze Giselle in ce, her eyes growing wide. ¡°You¡¯re telling me Elsa really pushed her own daughter-inw down the stairs? Brenna, promise me you won¡¯t marry Ethan. What if she does something like that to you? You need to keep your distance from a person like her.¡±


    No argument sprang to Brenna¡¯s lips, as marriage hadn¡¯t been on her mind. For now, she only wanted to date Ethan, leaving any talk of marriage for the future. Brenna said, ¡°So now, Ethan¡¯s father has finally had enough of Elsa. He¡¯s asking for a divorce and¡­¡±


    Throwing her out of the house, that¡¯s why she showed up here; she¡¯s hoping Ethan will take her in. Honestly, I feel like she¡¯ll target me in the future, Mom, she¡¯s really vicious, and Ethan doesn¡¯t like her, either. So if I ever do end up marrying him, he¡¯ll be on my side, not hers.¡±


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 Chapter 1078

    ?Chapter 1078:


    A slow shake of Giselle¡¯s head followed. ¡°I just can¡¯t ept it. Life with a mother-inw like that would be a nightmare. She¡¯d cause drama every single day. Before long, you¡¯d be exhausted. Take my advice; Darwin is the better choice for you.¡±


    A faint smile tugged at Brenna¡¯s lips. ¡°We¡¯ll see.¡±


    Meanwhile, Elsa arrived at Ethan¡¯s house. Shadows filled every corner; the whole house sat in silence. She saw that the ce was dark, with no lights on. ¡°No one is here, not even a maid. How could he live like this? He needs someone to take care of him.¡±


    She punched in the door code and called out, ¡°Elias? Where are you, Elias?¡± Ethan had recently hired Elias Sutton to cook and handle security for him since thest staff member had quit.


    Not a sound echoed back. Elsa made her way inside and flicked on the lights.


    Her stomach growled as she opened the fridge, only to find nothing inside.


    A search through every cab and drawer yielded no food.


    Frustrated and hungry, she mmed the fridge shut. ¡°Of course, nothing. I¡¯ll have to go out and get something myself.¡±


    Just outside, not far from the house, her path crossed with Giselle and Brenna again, who were heading home from their walk. This time, they couldn¡¯t avoid talking anymore.


    But Elsa had her pride. She didn¡¯t want to be the one starting a conversation with Brenna.


    Even with Giselle standing there, Elsa refused to offer any greeting. In her mind, neither Giselle nor Brenna had earned her courtesy or respect.


    Chapter 601:


    Giselle broke the silence first, her voice cool but edged with meaning. ¡°Well, this is unexpected! Are you here to see Ethan?¡±


    She made a point of using Ethan¡¯s name as if they were old friends, throwing in just enough familiarity to get under Elsa¡¯s skin. Although Elsa had never disrespected her directly, she¡¯d never treated her daughter kindly, and Giselle wasn¡¯t about to pass up a chance to get revenge for her daughter.


    With a faint, knowing smile, Giselle added, ¡°Lately, Ethan¡¯s been keepingte hours. If you¡¯re waiting for him here, you should know he probably won¡¯t be back for a while.¡±


    A spark of irritation shed across Elsa¡¯s face. How could someone else be more familiar with her son¡¯s schedule than her? The way Giselle spoke made it sound as if she were really close to Ethan.


    ???????????? ???? ????????????: ?????????¦Í????????????


    A swirl of frustration and envy welled up in Elsa¡¯s chest. It stung to think her own son was more familiar with an outsider than her.


    Determined not to be outdone, Elsa snapped back, ¡°He isn¡¯t home yet, but he will be home soon. You seem to know my son quite well. Does he spend a lot of time at your house?¡±


    It wasn¡¯t that Elsa didn¡¯t care about Ethan¡¯s life; he just never let her in on what was happening in his life. Hearing about Ethan¡¯s schedule from an outsider left her feeling angry and sad at the same time.


    Catching the shift in Elsa¡¯s expression, Giselle felt satisfied. ¡°He doesn¡¯t visit my ce very often, just three or four times a week. We see him at breakfast, and sometimes, he drives Brenna to work after having breakfast. Honestly, I¡¯m satisfied with him being my future son-inw. He looks after Brenna, lends his expertise to mypany, and helps my family build new connections. You¡¯ve raised an exceptional young man.¡±


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 Chapter 1079

    ?Chapter 1079:


    Elsa¡¯s cheeks turned crimson with anger. The son she¡¯d worked so hard to raise never showed her an ounce of respect, always ready to argue with her. But to others, he was all warmth and good manners. This was outrageous! She bristled, refusing to back down.


    ¡°Of course, my son is remarkable. But don¡¯t you think it¡¯s a bit inappropriate for you to call him your future son-inw? He and Brenna are only dating. They¡¯re not married yet, and my son values his reputation. You shouldn¡¯t say something like that.¡±


    Elsa threw her a pointed look. ¡°Let¡¯s not forget, he¡¯s quite the catch. There are plenty of impressive women around him. Who he ends up marrying is still uncertain.¡±


    Brenna caught the meaning in her words right away and shot back, ¡°I¡¯m surrounded by plenty of amazing men myself, so who I end up with is also uncertain. But I think parents should stay out of their children¡¯s love lives. Some people are so eager to y matchmaker that they don¡¯t even realize the ideal future daughter-inw in their eyes is already married. Isn¡¯t that awkward?¡±


    ¡°You are trying to mock me, right?¡± Elsa snapped, her temper ring at Brenna¡¯s clear jab. ¡°You do realize I¡¯m your boyfriend¡¯s mother, right? A little respect wouldn¡¯t hurt.¡±


    She attempted to reestablish her authority, tossing a sharpment Brenna¡¯s way.


    ¡°Respect? Rosanna always addressed you politely, and what did that get her? Didn¡¯t you shove her down the stairs? I wouldn¡¯t dare show you any respect.¡± Without waiting for a reply, Brenna linked arms with Giselle and walked off, chin held high.


    Taking a quieter route, they soon caught sight of Rosie¡¯s car slowing down in the distance. The car then stopped, and Rosie hopped out to greet Elsa, her tone bright and weing.


    ¡°Mrs. Mitchell! What brings you here today?¡± Rosie greeted Elsa, her voice full of warmth.


    Growing up, Rosie had always made an effort to win Elsa over, showering her withpliments and doing her best to make a good impression during every visit to Ethan¡¯s house. The two had built an easy rapport, and Elsa had once hoped Rosie could be her daughter-inw.


    Elsa felt much better seeing Rosie. Knowing Rosie had been driven out by the Harper family, she guessed Rosie must dislike the Harper family too.


    ?????????????? ???????? g???????¦Í???????????????


    ¡°Rosie, it¡¯s been ages! I¡¯ve really missed you. I heard you married a prince from Plieca. How¡¯s married life been treating you?¡± Elsa¡¯s mood brightened as she spoke to Rosie.


    Rosie gestured toward the car. ¡°My husband has been treating me well, Mrs. Mitchell. That¡¯s him, Maxley. And it has been so long since Ist saw Ethan. How¡¯s he doing these days?¡±


    Maxley, noticing their exchange, rolled down the window and greeted Elsa with a friendly nod.


    Elsa beamed. ¡°Your husband is handsome and royal. Rosie, you are really lucky. It¡¯s a pity that my son didn¡¯t marry you¡­¡±


    Rosie was overjoyed to hear this. She had wanted to marry Ethan but never got the chance.


    ¡°You have no idea how much I wished that, Mrs. Mitchell. I really wanted to be a part of your family before. Why don¡¯t we find a ce to sit and chat? I¡¯ve really missed you.¡±


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 Chapter 1080

    Chapter 1080:


    Meanwhile, Maxley, still waiting in the car, grew visibly impatient. The day¡¯s business had soured his mood, and Dalton¡¯s refusal to perform in Plieca left him even more irritable. He signaled the driver, who gave a soft honk to press Rosie to hurry up.


    Rosie nced back at Maxley and had to tell Elsa, ¡°Let¡¯s chat another time, Mrs. Mitchell. I just remembered I have some matters to deal with. I have to leave now.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s catch up another time, then,¡± Elsa replied with a hint of regret. Rosie really was the ideal daughter-inw she¡¯d always envisioned; if only things had turned out differently.


    After Giselle and Brenna came back home, Dalton was still stretched out on the living room sofa, on a phone call with his agent.


    ¡°Just handle it how you see fit. If it doesn¡¯t benefit us, we¡¯re not getting involved.¡± With that, Dalton ended the call, looking quite pleased.


    He turned to Brenna and Giselle. ¡°I just gave Rosie a piece of my mind. She started in on herints about how tough things are with the Plieca royals, how much her husband needs support, and how Maxley will never be the king in Plieca unless I support him. As if it¡¯s somehow all up to me. Ridiculous. She even dangled a few empty promises, saying once Maxley bes the king, our family would get every good project, and she wanted me to serve as their country¡¯s ambassador.¡±


    He rolled his eyes. ¡°Does she really think I¡¯m so easy to fool? Do she and Maxley expect me to fall for that? When I turned them down, they kept pestering me to change my mind, so I told them to talk to my agent.¡±


    Brenna shook her head, unable to hide her annoyance. ¡°If they¡¯re hoping for help, you¡¯d think they would show some respect to you. But what kind of attitude is that? They want us to help Maxley chase the crown, but they won¡¯t even ask nicely and act like we should be grateful for the chance to help. It¡¯s absurd.¡±


    Giselle nodded in agreement. ¡°Exactly. That¡¯s why your father and Ernst don¡¯t waste time on her. They just ignore herpletely. You probably haven¡¯t heard ¡ª Rosie showed up at Harper Group with Maxley, talking big about these huge projects she had lined up for thepany. Your father and Ernst thought she was being genuine, but it turned out she just wanted thepany to invest thirty billion for a lousy return. After that, your father and Ernst told everyone at thepany not to work with Rosie or Maxley again. I have no idea how she managed to talk a few shareholders into signing those small deals.¡±


    Dalton said, ¡°I don¡¯t think Rosie and Maxley have anything real going on. Most likely, they¡¯re pushing worthless projects just to scam investors and collect political backing. Rosie¡¯s always been cunning, ever since we were kids. She tried to convince me that by doing a concert in Plieca, I could pick up a huge fan base and crack the Akira market, said I¡¯d have both fame and money. I couldn¡¯t be bothered to deal with her, so I let my agent handle the matter.¡±


    Giselle sneered, ¡°What so-called clever ideas could she possibly have? She¡¯s always scheming against us. Don¡¯t agree to hold the concert. Let your agent refuse her outright. It¡¯s not like our family needs the money.¡±


    ?????????????? ?????????????? ???? g????????¦Í??????©o?????


    Brenna sat up straighter. ¡°We should just steer clear of her from now on. She is always up to no good.¡±


    The next day, Brenna headed to work, still apanied by her bodyguard.


    All day, she didn¡¯t catch a glimpse of Ethan. Lorna made a special trip up to the ny-ninth floor to check, only to report that Ethan hadn¡¯t shown up at the office today. He was probably out talking business with Waldo.


    And he had brought Gracie along.


    Hearing that left Brenna displeased. As long as Gracie worked at the Mitchell Group, she would have to interact with Ethan from time to time. There was no way Brenna could stop all contact between the two.


    .


    .


    .<hr>


    Message from Noah: New novels in a few hours, hope you like them dear readers. God loves you and Noah wishes you all the best. (?? ? ??)?


    .

 Chapter 1081

    ?Chapter 1081:


    She knew this, so she tried to be understanding.


    Late in the afternoon, just before Brenna was about to leave, her phone buzzed with a message from Ethan.


    ¡°Come to Blue Sky Golf Course after work.¡±


    The message was brief and to the point, with no hint of warmth¡ªalmost like amand.


    Brenna stared at the screen, waiting for another message, but nothing else came through.


    She then typed back a simple reply. ¡°Okay.¡±


    She asked her bodyguard to drive her there.


    Blue Sky Golf Course was the biggest and most exclusive course in Shirie, a ce reserved for the city¡¯s elite. Brenna was familiar with the ce.


    During the drive, she called Ethan, hoping to find out who he was meeting and why she needed to be there.


    The call rang and rang¡ªthen cut off on its own with no answer.


    ¡°Why isn¡¯t he answering? Did he forget his phone somewhere?¡± Brenna muttered to herself. Ethan had never ignored her before. He always called or texted her back right away. She felt something was off.


    From the front seat, the bodyguard said, ¡°Maybe he has had too much to drink and needs your help. That ce serves alcohol.¡±


    ¡°I doubt it. Ethan can handle his drinks. He attends plenty of events, but he¡¯s careful and rarely gets drunk,¡± Brenna responded, unable to shake her confusion about why Ethan wasn¡¯t picking up.


    The bodyguard nodded. ¡°Let¡¯s just y it safe. We¡¯ll go inside with you.¡±


    ¡°Alright,¡± Brenna agreed.


    Thinking of Gracie, who had apanied Ethan there, Brenna decided to call her.


    Gracie answered the call almost immediately.


    ¡°Gracie? Do you know why Ethan isn¡¯t picking up his phone?¡± Brenna asked.


    Silence filled the other end of the line.


    ???????? ???????????????? ? ?????????¦Í?????????????


    After a while, Gracie replied coldly, ¡°He¡¯s had too much to drink and is resting. All he¡¯s done is call your name. I used his phone to text you, Miss Harper. You wille pick him up, right?¡±


    ¡°Drunk? I thought he was supposed to be golfing. Who was he ying golf with?¡±


    Brenna stared at her phone after Gracie ended the call. Her frown deepened. ¡°Has something happened?¡±


    ¡°Miss Harper, I think you should reconsider going. This feels like a setup. Mr. Mitchell isn¡¯t someone who would get tricked easily,¡± the bodyguard said, hoping she would listen.


    Brenna shook her head. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about me. I¡¯m not easy to trick, either. If I were, the Barrett family would¡¯ve finished me off long ago.¡±


    The car pulled up in front of the Blue Sky Golf Course. Brenna turned to her bodyguard. ¡°You don¡¯t have toe with me. I want to see what Gracie is really nning on my own.¡±


    Still worried, the bodyguard said, ¡°At least let me call your brother to inform him of this.¡±


    Brenna made no objection. She got out of the car, closed the door with determination, and walked toward the entrance.


    .


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 Chapter 1082

    ?Chapter 1082:


    A male attendant met her at the door, greeting her with a polite nod while blocking her path. ¡°Excuse me, are you Miss Brenna Harper?¡±


    Without a pause, Brenna seized him by the cor. Her grip was shockingly strong for a woman. She yanked the man forward, dropping him to his knees, making him groan in pain.


    She might look graceful, but her strength was something else.


    Brenna¡¯s voice was ice-cold. ¡°Where is Ethan?¡±


    The attendant shrank under her gaze and pointed shakily in a direction. ¡°He¡¯s at the front golf course.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°If you¡¯re lying, you¡¯ll regret it.¡± She quickly strode inside.


    Brenna¡¯s bodyguard quickly walked over, shoving the attendant back to the floor before he could stand up. ¡°Tell me now, what trap have you set for her?¡± The attendant cried out in pain, stunned by the bodyguard¡¯s force. His arm twisted painfully, and fear filled his eyes.


    Beyond the lobby stretched a pristine golf course and an artificial swimming pool, all sheltered beneath a clear dome that kept the air warm. Though the weather was still cool in early spring, people could wear thin swimsuits without feeling cold there.


    Brenna¡¯s attentionnded on a shuttle parked near the green, with a small round table set nearby. White chairs dotted thewn, creating an inviting scene. Despite the elegant surroundings, Waldo¡¯s choice of clothing stood out for all the wrong reasons. He lounged on the grass in tight swim trunks, his body on full disy, with rolls of fat showing. The sight was anything but appealing. Gracie loungedfortably in a white circr chair, a ss of red wine in hand, her white knitted shawl draped loosely over her shoulders. She looked perfectly at ease.


    ¡°I don¡¯t see anything wrong here,¡± Brenna muttered under her breath, puzzled as she hurried across thewn toward Ethan.


    Ethan caught sight of Brenna and moved to meet her. ¡°You are here,¡± he said, his stride brisk.


    Today, Ethan was dressed only in ck swim trunks. His broad shoulders, toned chest, and well-defined abs were impossible to miss. Each confident step showed off his long, strong legs and charming presence.


    For a split second, Brenna found herself staring until Ethan stopped in front of her, pulling her back to reality. She shot him an using re.


    ???????? ?????????? ????????: g????????¦Í????????????


    ¡°I tried calling you several times. You didn¡¯t answer. I was starting to worry.¡±


    ¡°I was swimming and left my phone by the pool. I didn¡¯t hear it ring.¡± Ethan caught the way Brenna¡¯s eyes lingered on his body, and he smiled. ¡°Do you like what you see?¡±


    Brenna looked him up and down once more, even reaching out to run her fingers over his abs. ¡°Not bad at all.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s chest swelled with pride at her words.


    He reached for her hand, his touch gentle as he traced his thumb along her skin, already picturing what Brenna might look like in a swimsuit. ¡°Why did youe here?¡±


    Brenna shook off her distraction and slipped back into her calm, collected manner. ¡°Gracie used your phone to send me a message, telling me toe.¡±


    Before they could say more, Gracie sauntered over, dressed in a revealing bikini that highlighted every curve. Each step seemed designed to draw the eye. Waldo set down his golf club and followed, resting his hand on Gracie¡¯s shoulder.


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    .

 Chapter 1083

    ?Chapter 1083:


    Gracie brushed his hand off with a frosty re. ¡°Mr. Chapman, I¡¯m here as vice president of the Mitchell Group, not a waitress. You should show me some respect.¡±


    Brenna couldn¡¯t help but notice how great Gracie¡¯s figure was.


    But Ethan was long used to Gracie¡¯s beauty, and Gracie knew it well.


    Gracie just wanted Brenna to see her perfect figure and watch her swim with Ethan.


    ¡°Care to join me in the water, Miss Harper?¡± Gracie asked, certain that Brenna¡¯s figure couldn¡¯tpare to hers.


    Today, she believed Ethan would surely be disappointed by Brenna¡¯s less impressive body and dump her. Maybe he would even choose her to be his new girlfriend.


    ¡°No, I¡¯ll pass. Swimming isn¡¯t really my thing,¡± Brenna responded, turning her gaze toward the open-air swimming pool where people were enjoying themselves.


    Gracie pressed further with a smirk, ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Miss Harper? Feeling insecure about your body?¡±


    She shot Ethan a sideways nce. ¡°Ethan, maybe Brenna¡¯s worried she can¡¯t keep up with me in the pool. Or maybe she doesn¡¯t feel confident enough about her body to change into a swimsuit?¡±


    Ethan¡¯s icy, dismissive stare swept over Gracie as if her striking figure didn¡¯t even register.


    With an impassive tone, he shot back, ¡°Are you implying you want topare your body with Brenna¡¯s?¡±


    Gracie¡¯s intention was precisely that. She was certain her body outshone Brenna¡¯s and believed that if Ethan saw Brenna¡¯s body inparison, he would lose interest in her.


    That would give her the chance to be with him.


    But admitting her n was out of the question.


    ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant,¡± Gracie hastily said. ¡°I just thought Miss Harper might enjoy a swim. The setting here is so perfect; it would be a shame to miss the opportunity.¡±


    ¡°Oh, is that all? I thought you were banking on your figure being so irresistible that no one could rival it,¡± Brenna said sharply, her voice cutting through Gracie¡¯s pretense.


    ???????????? ???? ?????? ???????? ??????????: ?????????¦Í???????????????


    Gracie¡¯s cheeks burned with humiliation.


    ¡°How could that be? Miss Harper, you¡¯ve got it all wrong. You¡¯re stunning, and your figure¡¯s amazing. Why not unt it?¡± Gracie¡¯s sharp retort was paired with a sly nce at Ethan¡¯s sculpted abs. She couldn¡¯t deny that Ethan was her ideal partner, and today, she aimed to dazzle him with her allure. Yet, Ethan remained unmoved, barely acknowledging her presence.


    Gracie also thought that if Brenna¡¯s figure impressed Waldo, he might shift his unwanted attention to her, sparing her from his creepy advances.


    ¡°Miss Harper, let¡¯s go for a swim together. They¡¯ve got swimsuits here, and the swimming pool is perfect for a dip.¡±


    Without waiting for Brenna¡¯s reply, Gracie gged down a staff member. ¡°Please get a swimsuit ready for her.¡±


    The staff member, a poised and attractive young man, nodded courteously.


    ¡°Right away.¡±


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1084

    ?Chapter 1084:


    He then said something into his inte.


    Brenna smirked faintly. ¡°It seems I have no choice but to swim with you. So, Miss Wilson, what¡¯s the challenge? Who has the better figure, who swims faster, or who can hold their breath longer?¡±


    Seeing Gracie squirm under Brenna¡¯s sharp retorts, Waldo couldn¡¯t stay silent and jumped to her defense. ¡°She¡¯s just looking to enjoy some time with you, Miss Harper. Aren¡¯t you reading too much into it?¡±


    His sleazy gaze lingered on Brenna, specting about the curves hidden beneath her reserved attire.


    He figured she must have an impressive figure to have Ethan interested in her.


    Soon, a staff member arrived with a range of swimsuits¡ªsome barely more than scraps of fabric held together by flimsy ties, others slightly less revealing, like triangle bikinis or halter styles, and a few one-piece options.


    Ethan¡¯s expression darkened at the selection. Though luxurious and costly, the designs were scant. The thought of Brenna¡¯s body being stared at by others made him frown.


    Besides, there were Waldo and other people nearby.


    He didn¡¯t want Brenna wearing something so revealing in front of everyone.


    ¡°This one,¡± Ethan and Brenna said together, pointing to the one-piece swimsuit.


    Gracie scoffed mockingly, ¡°What¡¯s the matter, Miss Harper? Do youck confidence in your figure?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s reply was swift and cutting. ¡°Confidence doesn¡¯t mean I need to parade around in barely anything for men to gawk at. You¡¯re wearing next to nothing; has the man you like even noticed you?¡±


    Gracie was rendered speechless, her re fixed on Brenna.


    She had dressed skimpily to catch Ethan¡¯s eye, but he hadn¡¯t even spared her a look, his face even betraying a flicker of irritation when she was near him.


    Humiliation stung her. She had once been from a wealthy family, but now, she was deep in debt, and only Ethan was willing to help her. Being leered at by a creep like Waldo only deepened her shame, while Ethan seemed oblivious to the matter.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go with you to change,¡± Ethan said, escorting Brenna toward the building.


    Gracie tried to stop him. ¡°She needs to go to the women¡¯s changing room. You can¡¯t enter.¡±


    ?????????? ?????? ?????????? ?????????? ¡ú g????????¦Í?????????????


    Ethan¡¯s voice was icy. ¡°I¡¯ll stand outside to make sure she¡¯s not disturbed.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s smile was soft and appreciative. ¡°You¡¯re so considerate,¡± she said to Ethan.


    As they walked away, Waldo grabbed a cue stick and turned to Gracie. ¡°Miss Wilson, since Miss Harper will be a while, how about a game of pool? I can teach you.¡±


    He slid behind her, wrapping his arms around her to guide her hands on the cue. Both barely dressed, the contact repulsed Gracie.


    She shoved him back with anger. ¡°I know how to y. I don¡¯t need you to teach me.¡±


    racie¡¯s hand struck Waldo¡¯s face, her voice trembling with rage. ¡°You¡¯re disgusting!¡±


    Waldo¡¯s expression darkened, his cheek stinging from the p. Instead of retreating, he seized Gracie, pulling her close, his heavy frame pressing against her in a way that sent a twisted thrill through him.


    Humiliated and furious, Gracie shoved against him, but his strength overpowered her. ¡°Let me go, you creep! If you disrespect me again, I¡¯ll have Ethan cancel all partnerships with you, and you won¡¯t make a single penny.¡± Her voice turned venomous. ¡°I¡¯m serious. Keep this up, and you won¡¯t find a single business ally in Shirie!¡±


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1085

    ?Chapter 1085:


    Waldo smirked, tightening his grip, his excitement growing as he brazenly groped her. ¡°You¡¯ve got some fire, Miss Wilson,¡± he said.


    Gracie¡¯s face flushed with shame and fury, but she couldn¡¯t break free. ¡°What do you want from me?¡±


    She stopped resisting, ring fiercely at Waldo.


    ¡°That¡¯s better,¡± Waldo said, reveling in his control. Gracie felt a wave of revulsion.


    Trapped in his hold, she was unable to break free.


    He continued, ¡°Be my woman, and I¡¯ll secure a deal with Mr. Mitchell, even push for you to lead the project. You know the Mitchell Group is in a bind and needs my support. Refuse, and I¡¯ll take my offer to the Harper Group, the Wagner Group, or the Russell Corporation. I¡¯ve got options; it doesn¡¯t have to be the Mitchell Group.¡±


    His tone was smug. ¡°Unless you agree to be my woman, I won¡¯t partner with the Mitchell Group. That¡¯s my condition. It¡¯s also an opportunity for you.¡±


    Gracie forced herself to calm down. ¡°Let me go first. People are staring.¡± Indeed, a few onlookers by the artificialke were ncing curiously at the scene.


    Waldo released her, unperturbed.


    Gracie¡¯s eyes welled up, tears spilling over. Her father was gone, and no one would protect her anymore; not even Ethan was willing to protect her.


    She didn¡¯t want to be someone¡¯s toy.


    ¡°I need two days to consider it,¡± Gracie said, stalling to devise a strategy. Waldo smirked, unfazed. ¡°Alright, two days. If you don¡¯t agree by then, I¡¯ll find another business partner.¡±


    Just then, Brenna and Ethan emerged, and Brenna was wrapped in a long bathrobe that concealed her figure entirely. Holding hands, they shared easyughter, their joy evident.


    Gracie burned with envy when she saw that. She believed she was the one who deserved Ethan¡¯s love¡ªshe had met him first, loved him first. Why did Brenna get all his affection?


    A dark thought took root. If Brenna were out of the picture, would Ethan fall in love with her?


    This idea filled her mind, fueling her hatred.


    ???????????????? ???????????????? ???????? g???????¦Í?????????????


    If Brenna hadn¡¯t taken Ethan away, would Waldo have dared to harass her so brazenly?


    She med Brenna for all of this.


    Brenna was just as beautiful; why wasn¡¯t Waldo targeting her instead?


    This was all so unfair! Why was she always the one to suffer?


    The group headed to the artificialke, where some people lounged in chairs nearby, basking in the sunlight.


    ¡°It¡¯s been a while since Ist swam,¡± Brenna said, stepping onto the pier stretching to theke¡¯s center. She dropped her robe and dove in with fluid grace, her movements hinting at professional training.


    ¡°I¡¯m going in, too,¡± Gracie said, offering Ethan a faint smile before diving in with equal poise, though her revealing outfit drew more attention. Waldo nudged Ethan. ¡°Let¡¯s get in the water, too.¡±


    Ethan had noticed Waldo¡¯s focus on leisure all day¡ªgolf, swimming, and then more golf¡ªwithout a word about business.


    Ethan suspected Waldo was either uninterested in doing business with him or wasn¡¯t satisfied with the terms offered.


    .


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    .

 Chapter 1086

    ?Chapter 1086:


    If Waldo didn¡¯t mention a deal after this swim, Ethan decided he would bring it up himself. If Waldo refused, he wouldn¡¯t waste more effort.


    The two men also plunged into theke. Ethan¡¯s dive was smooth and practiced, cutting the water cleanly, while Waldo¡¯s clumsy leap sent a loud ssh rippling across the surface, devoid of any finesse.


    Brenna surged ahead, her strokes swift and graceful, with Gracie close behind, quickly catching up.


    The two women then paused to watch Ethan¡¯s fluid movements.


    Brenna, having never seen Ethan swim, was curious if he looked handsome doing it, so she watched intently.


    As she was absorbed in watching, she noticed Gracie sinking, struggling underwater. rmed, she dove down and saw Gracie clutching her left calf, her face contorted in pain.


    Was she having a cramp?


    Despite her resentment toward Gracie, Brenna couldn¡¯t let her drown. She tried to pull Gracie¡¯s head above the water to save her.


    But Gracie turned the tables, grabbing Brenna tightly and pushing herself up just enough to force Brenna¡¯s head beneath the surface.


    Brenna caught on right away¡ªthere was never any leg cramp at all.


    She realized it was a setup by Gracie, a fake cry for help meant to lure her in and drown her.


    The trick was cruel, especially since she had tried to save Gracie in the first ce.


    Anger boiled up inside her. Even with Gracie clinging to her hair, Brenna found it easy to break free; Gracie¡¯s grip was no match for her strength.


    A swift move allowed Brenna to seize Gracie¡¯s wrist, squeezing so hard that pain shot straight through Gracie¡¯s arm.


    Unable to handle the pain, Gracie let go of Brenna¡¯s hair. As she opened her mouth to cry out, water rushed in, making it hard for her to breathe.


    Desperate for air, Gracie tried to swim upward, but Brenna wouldn¡¯t let her. She held tight to Gracie¡¯s arm, forcing her to stay below the surface and experience the panic of drowning.


    With each second that passed, Gracie swallowed even more water. Every time she gasped, more liquid filled her lungs, leaving her weaker and more frightened as the feeling of suffocation took hold.


    ???????????? ???? ?????? ????????: ?????????¦Í????????©q?????


    Brenna waited until she saw that Gracie was nearly unconscious before finally pulling her up for air.


    Gracie came up gasping, convinced she had narrowly escaped death. Her eyes widened as she stared at Brenna, stunned by her strength. She had never expected Brenna to turn the tables on her so easily.


    ¡°Why did you try to drown me?¡± Gracie asked, a burst of anger pushing her words out as she barely caught her breath. Then, she charged at Brenna again. But facing Brenna was no easy task. Even in the water, her strength was formidable. With practiced ease, Brenna caught Gracie¡¯s hands, spun her around, and dunked her beneath the surface once more.


    Gracie iled and kicked, desperate tond a blow on Brenna.


    Right then, Ethan and Waldo sensed that something was wrong and quickly swam over.


    Brenna waited until they were close before finally letting go of Gracie.


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 Chapter 1087

    ?Chapter 1087:


    Worn out from the struggle, Gracie began to sob the moment she spotted Ethan, wanting to copse into his arms forfort.


    Ethan quickly avoided her, choosing to move behind Brenna instead.


    Gracie felt her distress deepen as her head dipped halfway beneath the water. Waldo reacted fast, catching her around the waist and pulling her upright. ¡°What happened?¡± he asked, feeling sympathetic toward Gracie.


    Gracie gasped, holding onto Waldo for support as she tried to calm herself. Once her breath was steady, she shot Brenna a furious look. ¡°She tried to drown me!¡±


    Ethan took note of their distance from shore. ¡°Let¡¯s talk about this once we¡¯re onnd,¡± he suggested.


    Struggling to swim, Gracie managed only a few strokes before letting Waldo drag her the rest of the way.


    As soon as they stepped onto solid ground, Gracie¡¯s tears flowed freely. She jabbed her finger at Brenna, her voice shaking with rage. ¡°I got a leg cramp and started sinking. She saw me but didn¡¯t help. Instead, she pushed me under. She wanted to drown me to death!¡±


    Before anyone else could react, Brenna, furious and feeling betrayed,shed out and pped Gracie hard, the force turning Gracie¡¯s head to the side.


    Gracie clutched her cheek, crying even harder.


    Brenna, not finished,nded a p on the other side of Gracie¡¯s face. ¡°I truly meant to drown you. Do you really think you¡¯d still be alive right now?¡±


    Gracie retorted, her voice trembling, ¡°You only failed because I fought back, and Ethan and Waldo showed up in time! You were trying to kill me! Ethan, you can¡¯t marry someone so cruel like Brenna. She¡¯ll only bring you trouble.¡±


    Waldo felt a sudden chill race down his back. Memories of ying tennis with Brenna shed in his mind, especially those moments when her shots had struck him more than once. He had always chalked it up to chance.


    Seeing Brenna hit Gracie with such force now made him question everything. The uracy and strength in her actions showed she wasn¡¯t someone to mess with. Gracie¡¯s cheeks turned red and swollen almost instantly after the ps. There was no denying Brenna¡¯s fierceness.


    Without warning, Brenna grabbed a handful of Gracie¡¯s hair and yanked her back toward the water, dragging her head under once more.


    Caughtpletely by surprise, Gracie ended up gulping down more water. She thrashed wildly, desperate for Brenna to let her go, wanting Ethan and Waldo to help her.


    ?????????????? ????????????: g??????¦Í??????????????


    Brenna said coldly, ¡°You want proof I could drown you? I¡¯ll show everyone what I can really do.¡±


    She held Gracie¡¯s head underwater, refusing to let here up for air.


    Waldo sprang into action, walking over and trying to change Brenna¡¯s mind. ¡°Miss Harper, stop! There¡¯s no need for this. We know you¡¯re telling the truth.¡±


    Brenna barely spared him a nce. ¡°Back off!¡± she snapped, shoving Waldo aside without a second thought.


    Ethan watched the scene unfold, worried but convinced that Brenna wouldn¡¯t go too far. He stayed alert, prepared to step in if things got out of hand.


    He was ready to act if Gracie was truly in danger of drowning.


    Brenna did not let go of Gracie until she stopped struggling. She then pulled Gracie back up and dropped her roughly onto the ground.


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 Chapter 1088

    ?Chapter 1088:


    Gracie copsed there, too weak to get up, her breathing ragged and her energypletely spent.


    Gracie was too weak to even lift a finger, but she managed to stay conscious, her strength barely holding on. She had to admit that Brenna was truly terrifying. She had felt only a breath away from dying just now.


    A silent promise formed in her heart; she would never mess with Brenna again. Now, she understood why even Waldo never dared to cross Brenna. If he ever tried, he would probably be destroyed by her.


    Brenna crouched beside Gracie, her voice cold and steady. ¡°Tell everyone what really happened. If you lie, I¡¯ll make sure you get another taste of near-death experience.¡±


    For a long moment, Graciey there catching her breath. Fear made her shiver as she finally said, ¡°I faked the leg cramp earlier. I only wanted to set up Brenna. I just couldn¡¯t stand her.¡±


    The real reason for her actions stayed hidden. She didn¡¯t dare admit her true intentions, scared that Ethan would hate her and cut her off for good.


    Eventually, she sat up, forcing a wounded look toward Ethan. ¡°Even if I was wrong to frame her, she shouldn¡¯t have treated me like that. Ethan, do you realize how close I came to dying just now? Are you really going to stand by and let her keep hurting me? Please, don¡¯t let someone so heartless like her stay by your side. I¡¯m afraid that she¡¯ll actually kill me next time.¡±


    Tears streamed down her cheeks as she tried to stand, reaching for Ethan¡¯s hand, but he stepped back, not wanting to touch her at all.


    Waldo, however, extended a hand to help Gracie up, reassuring her, ¡°I¡¯ll protect you. From now on, I¡¯ll make sure no one bullies you.¡±


    The contrast between the two men was clear. Waldo showed her kindness, while Ethan was cold, but Gracie still found Waldo repulsive. Her heart remained tied to Ethan.


    She desperately wished Ethan would take her side, or at least speak up for her. But Ethan had no words offort for her. ¡°Brenna pays back every slight and never lets anyone disrespect her. She¡¯s not someone who bullies people for no reason. As long as you stay in yourne and don¡¯t provoke her, you¡¯ll have nothing to fear.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s voice stayed calm as she said, ¡°If you stop stirring up drama or causing trouble for me, I¡¯ll leave you alone. You don¡¯t need to worry about meing after you.¡±


    After a pause, she said, ¡°I¡¯m leaving now.¡±


    ???????? ???? ???????????????? ???????? ?g???????¦Í?????????????


    Ethan quickly followed her, sensing Brenna¡¯s anger and feeling the need tofort her.


    Only Waldo and Gracie remained behind. Gracie sat on the ground, hugging her knees as she cried, feeling lost and abandoned, especially by Ethan, the one person she had counted on the most.


    Despair filled her heart, but she still couldn¡¯t bring herself to ept the reality.


    ¡°Miss Wilson,¡± Waldo said, hoping to strike a deal. ¡°Have you given any thought to what I asked? If you choose to be with me, I¡¯ll make sure you¡¯re happy, and no one will ever mess with you.¡±


    Anger red in Gracie¡¯s eyes. ¡°Leave me alone!¡± she snapped. No matter how desperate she felt, she would never agree to be Waldo¡¯s mistress. In her mind, he didn¡¯t deserve her.


    ¡°It¡¯s obvious you¡¯re interested in Mr. Mitchell, but he doesn¡¯t even notice you. There¡¯s no way you¡¯ll ever win him over. The sooner you ept that and choose me, the sooner your life will get better,¡± Waldo said.


    .


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 Chapter 1089

    ?Chapter 1089:


    Frustration and bitterness overwhelmed Gracie, and she suddenly needed a way to vent. She stood up without warning, pped Waldo hard, then turned and ran away.


    Brenna, having changed her clothes, emerged from the club with Ethan. Her bodyguard quickly approached them.


    ¡°Miss Harper, are you okay?¡± the bodyguard asked, carefully checking Brenna over for any injuries.


    Brenna answered, ¡°I¡¯m fine. I just needed to set someone straight.¡±


    Ethan moved quickly to open the car door for her, and Brenna slid into the car. Inside, Brenna spoke bluntly, ¡°Your project doesn¡¯t look like it¡¯s going to work out.¡±


    Ethan kept his eyes on the road, unbothered by her words. ¡°If the project fails, that¡¯s how it goes. I don¡¯t think Waldo is sincere about partnering with me. He keeps stalling without making a decision. I¡¯m not in a hurry. Your n is already working, and the Mitchell Group¡¯s stock is climbing. Both your brother and Jayceon have been a big help. Even without Waldo¡¯s assistance, everything will be fine.¡±


    Brenna turned to him and asked, ¡°Why is your mother living at your ce now?¡±


    Ethan let out a sigh. ¡°I didn¡¯t have much of a choice. My dad mes her for getting Kenny hurt, and now they¡¯re getting a divorce. He won¡¯t let here home or care for Kenny. Out of anger, she packed up and moved in with me. Lately, she¡¯s been busy looking after my grandma, so I haven¡¯t talked to her about it.¡±


    He nced at Brenna, curiosity flickering in his eyes. ¡°Have you seen her recently?¡±


    A feeling of resignation washed over Brenna; she realized Ethan had no intention of sending Elsa away. Then again, she understood his decision. Elsa was still his mother, after all.


    ¡°I did run into her. She still doesn¡¯t like me, and honestly, I can¡¯t say I like her,¡± Brenna admitted, making her feelings about Elsa perfectly clear.


    Ethan nodded, knowing exactly how stubborn Elsa could be. ¡°She worries too much about what others think. I¡¯ll talk to her when I get a chance. Maybe I can convince her to mind her own business, pick up a new hobby, and stop meddling in our rtionship,¡± he said, thinking that Elsa would ept Brenna with time.


    Gracie had settled into Ethan¡¯s old apartment, situated just a short distance from the Mitchell Group¡¯s office. It was close enough that she could walk to work in twenty minutes or take a quick bus ride.


    Since returning from the golf course, she had been in a foul mood, drained and withdrawn, wrapping a scarf around her face to conceal the swelling from prying neighbors.


    ???????? ???????????? ????????: g???????¦Í????????????


    After stepping off the bus near her apartmentplex, she stopped by a pharmacy to pick up some ointment for the swelling, intending to apply it once she was home.


    As the elevator doors slid open, a small gray hamster darted inside before she could exit, startling her into a sharp yelp as she stumbled back. The tiny creature skittered about in a frenzy, clearly as spooked as she was. A young girl in floral-patterned loungewear rushed into the elevator, scrambling to catch the hamster.


    After a brief chase, she finally scooped it up. With gentle eyes, she looked at Gracie and said, ¡°I¡¯m so sorry. It slipped out of my ce while I was feeding it. Did it scare you? I really didn¡¯t mean for that to happen.¡±


    Noticing the fear in Gracie¡¯s expression, the girl held up the hamster in her palms. ¡°See? It¡¯s adorable and doesn¡¯t bite.¡±


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 Chapter 1090

    ?Chapter 1090:


    Gracie nodded, wondering in her heart why such a lovely girl would be so fond of such an odd little creature.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine,¡± she said.


    The girl smiled, cradling her pet as she headed back to her apartment. Gracie noticed they lived on the same floor.


    Once inside her own ce, Gracie shrugged off her coat and headed to the bathroom to apply the ointment, hoping it would quickly ease the swelling.


    Just then, the doorbell chimed.


    She paused, wondering who it could be, and immediately thought of Ethan. After all, he was her only close friend in the city and the only one who knew her address.


    With a hopeful smile, she opened the door, only to find the girl from the elevator standing there, holding a cup of coffee and wearing an apologetic expression.


    The girl¡¯s eyes briefly widened at the sight of the handprint marks on Gracie¡¯s cheeks, a flicker of shock crossing her face.


    Quickly regaining herposure, she assumed Gracie had endured a rough day and chose not to pry.


    ¡°Miss, I feel bad about my hamster startling you earlier. Please take this as an apology,¡± she said.


    Gracie nced at the coffee and epted it with a small nod. ¡°You didn¡¯t have to. It¡¯s really alright.¡±


    The girl smiled, her gaze lingering on Gracie¡¯s face for a moment before she hesitantly added, ¡°My mom always says an ice pack can help bring down swelling.¡±


    Gracie touched her face self-consciously, feeling a pang of embarrassment.


    Thankfully, the girl didn¡¯t linger and soon left. Gracie brought the coffee inside, set it on the table, and returned to the bathroom to continue applying the ointment.


    She rubbed it in gentle circles, but the pain persisted, and the swelling showed no signs of fading.


    ¡°Maybe the medicine just needs time to work,¡± she muttered.


    Her stomach rumbled, prompting her to drink the coffee.


    ???????????? ???????? ???? ?????????¦Í?????????????


    Her thoughts drifted back to the golf course, where Brenna had held her underwater, nearly drowning her. A surge of resentment toward Brenna welled up, coupled with a sting of hurt from Ethan¡¯s indifference, leaving her feeling sad.


    Ethan was the man she had secretly loved for a decade.


    Tears rolled down her still-tender cheeks. Remembering the girl¡¯s advice, she grabbed an ice pack and pressed it to her face.


    To her relief, the pain eased considerably.


    Her mind wandered back to the image of the hamster darting into the elevator in a panic.


    Suddenly, she had a brilliant idea about how to move in with Ethan.


    She was convinced he still cared for her. If he didn¡¯t, given her actions against Brenna today and his protective nature, she would have faced serious consequences.


    Ethan hadn¡¯t done anything to her or reprimanded her. To her, this was proof he still cared about her and was willing to overlook her mistakes.


    While she was lost in thought, her phone rang, snapping her back to reality. She nced at the screen¡ªan unfamiliar number, though it had called her before.


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 Chapter 1091

    ?Chapter 1091:


    Answering, she heard Rosie¡¯s voice. ¡°Miss Wilson, I heard you¡¯re about to head the Mitchell Group¡¯s venture capital division?¡±


    Gracie knew Rosie wasn¡¯t one for casual chats; this was about business. Her tone cooled as she responded politely, ¡°It¡¯s not confirmed yet.¡±


    Rosie gave a softugh. ¡°I¡¯m aware Ethan and the three vice presidents are opposing your leadership on this project. Are you interested in securing the project manager role?¡±


    Gracie bristled at Rosie¡¯s patronizing tone, which felt like an offer of pity.


    ¡°What¡¯s it to you?¡± she shot back, irritation creeping in.


    ¡°I have a way to ensure you get the project manager position. With your skills, holding onto it would be no issue. So, Miss Wilson, want to hear me out?¡± Rosie said.


    Gracie knew she wasn¡¯t guaranteed the role, and no one at thepany was advocating for her. After thirty seconds of weighing her options, she decided to see what Rosie was proposing. ¡°Alright, what¡¯s your n?¡± she said.


    Early sunlight streamed across the sidewalk as Brenna¡¯s bodyguard pulled up to the curb and let her out of the car. She spotted Gracie making her way over at a brisk pace, and they walked to the entrance of thepany at the same time.


    After a nce, Brenna saw that the swelling on Gracie¡¯s face had disappeared, her recovery surprisingly swift.


    A look full of venom shed in Gracie¡¯s eyes, impossible to miss. Brenna met her gaze with an icy stare, radiating an intimidating aura.


    Momentster, Ethan¡¯s car glided to a stop at the entrance, and he emerged with an unhurried stride, heading straight for Brenna. All the bitterness in Gracie¡¯s eyes vanished, her expression turning to one of guilt and wounded innocence. She said to Brenna in an apologetic tone, ¡°Miss Harper, I¡¯m so sorry for what happened yesterday. Please forgive me. I waspletely out of line. I swear it will never happen again.¡±


    Tears began to spill down her cheeks, and passersby were startled by the scene, all looking at Gracie and Brenna. To anyone watching, Gracie¡¯s pitiful act made it look like Brenna had been bullying her.


    Picking up on the stares and hushedments swirling around them, Gracie went further, dropping to her knees at Brenna¡¯s feet. ¡°It was all my fault yesterday, Miss Harper. Please don¡¯t hold it against me. I know you¡¯re unhappy with me because I have feelings for Ethan. But he¡¯s not married. Doesn¡¯t that mean anyone can pursue him? You can¡¯t expect me to back off just because you two are together.¡±


    The way onlookers eyed Brenna made it clear they saw her as possessive, believing she was unreasonable for stopping other women from trying to win over Ethan simply because she was dating him.


    ?????????????????? ???????? ???? ???????? g???????¦Í??????????????


    Brenna recognized exactly what Gracie was trying to do. ¡°I never told you that you were forbidden from going after Ethan. You have every opportunity to pursue him. After all, you two already share the same floor at work, which makes things easier for you, doesn¡¯t it? I am not standing in your way. But since you failed to make him choose you, you think you can just make me step aside and hand him over to you by doing this?¡±


    Shock registered on Gracie¡¯s face, her mouth falling open as she stared at Brenna. Why was Brenna so sharp with her tongue? Not only was she strong, but she was also sharp with her words.


    Ethan, already reading between the lines, saw through Gracie. ¡°If you want to pursue someone, that¡¯s your decision. No one is trying to stop you. Now, get up; you should have some self-respect.¡±


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 Chapter 1092

    ?Chapter 1092:


    Without another word, Ethan gently took Brenna¡¯s hand and guided her toward the executive elevator.


    Stunned and left behind, Gracie could only watch, humiliated and simmering with resentment. Brenna hadn¡¯t risen to the bait and hadn¡¯t lost herposure. If she had, Gracie might have walked away with public sympathy on her side.


    News of the morning¡¯s drama spread through thepany like wildfire. Executives wasted no time specting about Brenna and Gracie, betting on who would end up with Ethan in the end.


    Brenna heard about this from Lorna.


    Just before noon, Brenna was on the verge of inviting Ethan to lunch when Lorna walked in carrying a tray piled high with red and white strawberries. She ced them in front of Brenna.


    ¡°ni dropped these off just now. Apparently, they came from Mr. Mitchell¡¯s mother. ni said Mr. Mitchell loved them, and he insisted you should have some, too.¡±


    A mischievous glint shed in Lorna¡¯s eyes while she spoke, suggesting she was eager for a bit of gossip.


    Composed as ever, Brenna just raised an eyebrow. ¡°Why is his mother hanging around here again?¡±


    Lorna lifted her shoulders in a small shrug. ¡°ni did not give many details, but she did mention that she overheard Mr. Mitchell¡¯s mother sobbing.¡±


    Brenna gave a dryugh. ¡°Sobbing? That woman¡¯s always bossing people around. If she¡¯s crying, she¡¯s just putting on a show.¡±


    ¡°No idea,¡± replied Lorna, shaking her head. ¡°What I did hear is that right after she arrived, Gracie went in to see her. Not long after, Gracie walked her out. They both looked pretty happy. Definitely didn¡¯t seem like there¡¯d been any crying. They also left together.¡±


    A knot twisted in Brenna¡¯s stomach. Gracie would stop at nothing to get closer to Ethan. Gracie had even set her up just the day before. Who knew what she might tell Elsa today? It could not be anything good. ¡°Did they really leave together?¡±


    Confirmation came quickly from Lorna. ¡°They did. Want me to dig a little deeper? I can track where they went, who they saw, maybe even what was said.¡± Without hesitation,


    Brenna gave her the go-ahead. ¡°Yes, look into it for me. My guess is that Elsa took Gracie to the hospital.¡±


    ???????? ???????? ???????????????????? @ g?????????¦Í????????©q??????


    Memories of Ethan¡¯s grandmother¡¯s injury came to mind. Elsa wouldn¡¯t leave her mother by herself for long. And since Gracie was trying to win Ethan over, she would likely go to the hospital to get close to his family.


    Once Lorna left the office, Brenna pulled out her phone and tried to arrange a lunch with Ethan.


    Disappointment met her quickly. Ethan replied that he would need to have lunch with Jayceon and Ernst for business.


    At eleven-thirty, Brenna received a message from Darwin.


    ¡°Heard the Mitchell Group¡¯s stock tanked. Lunch together to talk about it?¡±


    After a moment¡¯s thought, Brenna agreed.


    Just then, Thiago appeared at her door, giving it a gentle knock. ¡°Would you like to have lunch together?¡±


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    .

 Chapter 1093

    ?Chapter 1093:


    Kwan¡¯s Secret Kitchen had a reputation for good food, and Darwin was the one who suggested that he and Brenna dine here. This was the first time Brenna and Thiago had set foot in the ce.


    The moment Darwin spotted Thiago, disappointment flickered across his face. What was supposed to be a cozy meal for two now felt crowded with this unexpected guest.


    Thiago noticed Darwin¡¯s sour mood, but he didn¡¯t let it bother him. He even took the initiative to introduce himself, saying, ¡°Brenna and I go way back. Weunched the Night Studio together, and I¡¯m a shareholder. There¡¯s nothing about her I don¡¯t know, so if you want to get close to her, you really should be friends with me.¡±


    After a pause, he added, ¡°By the way, my wife is Brenna¡¯s best friend.¡± Brenna nodded with a smile.


    Darwin¡¯s irritation faded after he heard that.


    ¡°This ce has amazing food. I¡¯ve eaten here with my colleagues a couple of times already. They make these unique dishes¡­¡± Darwin enthusiastically introduced the restaurant¡¯s specialties to Brenna.


    Brenna walked beside him toward a table, listening without much interest. When it was time to sit, Thiago imed the seat next to Darwin, which left Brenna to take the spot across from them.


    Darwin frowned at Thiago. ¡°You should really switch seats. I¡¯d like to sit beside Miss Harper.¡±


    Thiago was blunt. ¡°In her eyes, you barely make the list to be her boyfriend. Honestly, you¡¯re lucky to even be her friend.¡±


    Darwin said, ¡°If she ever breaks up with Mr. Mitchell, I will have a chance to be her boyfriend. Nothing is set in stone. There¡¯s always hope.¡±


    Thiago grinned. ¡°Sure. Dream big.¡±


    He made no move to change his seat, so Darwin moved to sit next to Brenna. Brenna showed no sign of resistance. Truth be told, she considered Darwin to be a genuinely good guy.


    The three ordered six dishes and chatted while eating.


    Darwin leaned in and said, ¡°Since Thiago¡¯s your close friend, I don¡¯t have to hold back. Word is, someone¡¯s targeting the Mitchell Group. It¡¯s Hector from Norview, and he¡¯s not someone to mess with.¡±


    ???????????? ?????????????? ???????? ???? g???????¦Í????????????


    Brenna looked shocked. ¡°Did the Mitchell Group do something to anger Hector?¡±


    Darwin turned to face her. ¡°Well, Gracie joined the Mitchell Group, didn¡¯t she? Maybe Hector¡¯s going after thepany because of his ex-wife.¡±


    Brenna shook her head. ¡°That can¡¯t be it. I know about what happened between Hector and Gracie. He¡¯s already gotten his revenge, and their marriage is over. I doubt Hector would target Ethan¡¯spany just because Gracie and Ethan are close. Is there something else you¡¯ve heard?¡±


    Darwin paused for a moment, studying Brenna. ¡°What makes you so sure? I thought you weren¡¯t even on good terms with Gracie. How do you know so much about her affairs? I didn¡¯t even know Gracie and Hector divorced.¡±


    Thiago let out a quietugh and offered some rity. ¡°You¡¯re not seeing the full picture. Hector¡¯s marriage to Gracie was all about payback; he wanted to get back at her and her father. It even went as far as physical abuse, so I doubt he¡¯d target the Mitchell Group over her. There must be a different reason.¡±


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 Chapter 1094

    ?Chapter 1094:


    ¡°Abuse? That can¡¯t be right. Sure, Hector has a rough past, but he¡¯s always acted like a gentleman in our professional meetings. I never would have guessed he would abuse anyone.¡± The news stunned Darwin. He couldn¡¯t connect the well-mannered Hector he knew with the idea of someone capable of domestic violence.


    Brenna asked, ¡°Yourpany works with Hector?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ve got a few joint projects. One night, his assistant got too drunk and started spilling things, but I don¡¯t know much else,¡± Darwin replied, watching Brenna closely for any sign she was worried about Ethan. If she truly cared about Ethan, she would be concerned that hispany was under attack.


    Brenna stayedposed, showing not even a hint of worry. That told Darwin her feelings for Ethan weren¡¯t deep. Maybe she was drawn to Ethan¡¯s wealth and status. Still, wealth wasn¡¯t everything. Darwin figured he might still have a shot with her. After all, he came from a wealthy family as well.


    ¡°I¡¯ll reach out to Hector and ask him about the matter. Maybe there¡¯s some other conflict between Ethan and Hector,¡± said Brenna, calmly pulling out her phone and firing off a message before putting it away again.


    A flicker of irritation crossed Darwin¡¯s face. He believed Brenna might actually care about Ethan since she acted this quickly.


    Thiago caught Darwin¡¯s look and grinned. ¡°Don¡¯t look so down. You¡¯re a good friend to Brenna, and that counts for something. If there¡¯s one thing I know about Brenna, it¡¯s that she values real friends.¡±


    Brenna gave a small nod and said to Darwin, ¡°You¡¯re a decent guy. I¡¯m d we¡¯re friends.¡±


    Darwin couldn¡¯t decide whether to feel happy about it or not, but he believed that this was better than not being Brenna¡¯s friend at all.


    Thiago tried to lighten the mood. ¡°Don¡¯t take it so hard. Brenna doesn¡¯t have many friends, but you¡¯ve be one. That counts for something.¡±


    ¡°You are really blunt, you know that?¡± Darwin shot Thiago a look.


    ¡°d you picked up on that. I try to keep things real. By the way, what projects are you working on with Hector?¡± Thiago asked.


    After Darwin, Brenna, and Thiago finished their meal and stepped outside, Darwin reached into his jacket and produced a small, elegantly wrapped box, holding it out to Brenna.


    ???????????????? ????????: g???????¦Í?????????????


    ¡°I bought this limited-edition perfume while I was in Valportst week. I thought you¡¯d like it.¡±


    Brenna eyed the box¡ªa coveted perfume from her favorite brand, a new limited edition she had wanted to buy recently but hadn¡¯t been able to get.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± she said, epting it with a note of surprise. Apparently, Darwin had paid close attention to what she liked.


    The fact that he knew his way around luxury brands also didn¡¯t escape her. Clearly, he had a luxurious lifestyle.


    Darwin¡¯s whole face lit up when she epted the gift. Maybe this meant she was finally warming to him.


    At the very least, he was sure he¡¯d made progress in their rtionship.


    Determined, he vowed to keep trying to win her over.


    From a distance, Thiago caught the goofy smile on Darwin¡¯s face and suppressed a sigh. He knew Brenna wasn¡¯t the type to fall for grand gestures or fancy gifts.


    .


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    .

 Chapter 1095

    ?Chapter 1095:


    Darwin would be disappointed in the end.


    Later, back at her desk, Brenna set the perfume down without much thought. Soon, Lorna entered the office.


    ¡°Wait until you hear what I found out,¡± Lorna said with excitement.


    Brenna arched an eyebrow in curiosity.


    Lorna couldn¡¯t hide her enthusiasm. She was always thrilled to be the one with fresh gossip.


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell¡¯s mother headed into the CEO¡¯s office at 10:47 this morning. At the time, Mr. Mitchell was in the middle of a conversation with Milton. As soon as she walked in, Milton excused himself and left,¡± Lorna said, lowering her voice.


    ¡°Spare me the buildup. Get to the point,¡± Brenna leaned in, genuinely curious about the reason for Elsa¡¯s sudden visit.


    Lorna said, ¡°Milton told a secretary that Elsa was in tears, asking Mr. Mitchell to help her and saying that her husband was trying to take her money. She was putting on quite the performance, sobbing hard.¡±


    Brenna frowned. ¡°She makes less than Ethan¡¯s dad. Why would he be taking her money? Shouldn¡¯t it be her sharing his money instead?¡±


    Lorna replied, ¡°Milton let slip that Mr. Mitchell gives his mother gifts all the time¡ªmoney on holidays, properties, luxury handbags, cars, even storefronts. She¡¯s been stashing up assets for years.¡±


    ¡°Sounds like Milton¡¯s got all the details,¡± Brenna said, amused. ¡°What happened with Gracie and Elsa after that?¡±


    A littleugh escaped Lorna. ¡°Oh, I know that too! Gracie¡¯s secretary can¡¯t stand her. I brought her some choctes, and she spilled everything to me. Apparently, Gracie was asking her secretary how to get closer to Mr. Mitchell. She probably wants to win Mr. Mitchell¡¯s mother over to do that¡­¡±


    The story clicked for Brenna. Gracie¡¯s angle was obvious, but it didn¡¯t bother her. Ethan had always been the family rebel; if anything, Elsa¡¯s interference would push him even further away from Gracie.


    After Lorna shared a few more bits of office gossip, Brenna gave her the perfume as a thank-you gift.


    Lorna¡¯s eyes lit up with pure delight. ¡°Thanks, Boss!¡± she said. She recognized thebel right away¡ªjust a single bottle was worth tens of thousands.


    ???????? ???????? ???????? ???? g????????¦Í??????©o?????


    Working under such a generous supervisor truly had its perks.


    With her new treasure in hand, Lorna left Brenna¡¯s office, only to catch Greta¡¯s envious nce.


    ¡°You see this?¡± Lorna grinned, waving the bottle. ¡°The boss gave it to me; it¡¯s the newest limited edition.¡±


    A crowd of women quickly gathered around Lorna, eager for a whiff. ¡°Let us try it, too! I¡¯ve never gotten my hands on such an expensive bottle of perfume before.¡±


    Lorna generously let anyone who asked try it, knowing she might need their help gathering information in the future.


    Only Greta hung back, arms crossed and rolling her eyes.


    After sharing the scent with half the department, Lorna nced at the bottle and was pleased to see there was still plenty left for her.


    Seeing Lorna¡¯s smug smile, Greta couldn¡¯t resist a jab. ¡°What¡¯s there to be so happy about? It¡¯s just perfume. You¡¯re still the lowest earner here, and you get excited over crumbs.¡±


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 Chapter 1096

    ?Chapter 1096:


    Lorna shrugged, not the least bit fazed. ¡°Why shouldn¡¯t I be happy? This bottle of perfume is worth months of my paycheck. You might make more than I do, but I doubt you¡¯d ever splurge on something like this. I got it as a gift, so I am pleased!¡±


    With another dismissive eye roll, Greta muttered, ¡°I won¡¯t waste my time arguing with you.¡±


    Meanwhile, Brenna¡¯s phone buzzed with a message from Rosie.


    ¡°Heard the Mitchell Group¡¯s been having stock issues. Did you step in and save them with your expertise?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s expression turned cold as she read the message. She didn¡¯t respond.


    Soon after, Rosie sent another message.


    ¡°Want to have dinner with me tonight?¡±


    Brenna continued to ignore her. She knew Rosie was always scheming and had no interest in dining with her.


    She figured this would be the end of it.


    But when she left thepany after work, she found Rosie waiting for her by a sleek car, grinning as if they were old friends.


    ¡°Brenna, we haven¡¯t had a meal together in ages. Let¡¯s have dinner and catch up,¡± Rosie said.


    The instant Brenna caught that cold, scheming look in Rosie¡¯s eyes, a wave of disgust washed over her.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to talk to you,¡± Brenna said.


    Her tone was icy as she turned away and headed for her car.


    Rosie moved to block her, only to be stopped by Brenna¡¯s bodyguard.


    ¡°I¡¯m offering you a business deal! You won¡¯t even sit down and hear me out?¡± Rosie called after her, her voice tinged with exasperation.


    Brenna didn¡¯t pause for a second. She quickly slipped into her car, and her bodyguard followed, pulling the car away.


    ¡°Unbelievable. She¡¯s so arrogant!¡± Rosie huffed in annoyance. The truth was, she had spent days gathering intel. She¡¯d teamed up with Hector, nning to pressure the Mitchell Group and force Ethan to cooperate with her. Their scheme had rattled thepany; the Mitchell Group¡¯s stock had taken a nosedive, and the losses had been huge.


    She had believed this would be the perfect moment for her to step in and mend fences with the Mitchell Group. Unexpectedly, someone had managed to stabilize the stock prices before she could. No matter how hard Rosie investigated, she couldn¡¯t uncover who had helped the Mitchell Group.


    ???????? ???????? ???????????? ????????????: ?????????¦Í???????????????


    Earlier at lunch, she¡¯d tried to fish for clues from Gracie, but the woman never let anything slip, rendering her efforts in vain. Itter dawned on her that Gracie was too smart. Unlike Isabe and Tina, Gracie could see through her intentions easily.


    After getting nowhere with Gracie, Rosie tried her luck with Brenna, hoping she might let something slip.


    She knew Brenna had a sharp mind and plenty of resources. If she could just get Brenna talking, maybe she¡¯d discover something useful.


    But Brenna didn¡¯t even give her the chance to speak.


    Rosie couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that Brenna had a hand in stabilizing the Mitchell Group¡¯s stock. But she had no proof and was unwilling to believe that Brenna was capable of doing something like that.


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 Chapter 1097

    ?Chapter 1097:


    Meanwhile, at the hospital, Belen rested in bed, an IV drip attached to her arm. Gracie and Elsa sat together on a small couch nearby, chatting quietly. Since noon, Gracie had¡­


    been at Belen¡¯s side for nearly six hours. She had only stepped out briefly to meet Rosie for lunch and to buy food for Belen and Elsa.


    ¡°Gracie, can I ask you something? Please answer honestly,¡± Elsa said. She had been holding back her question for a while, unsure if she was close enough to Gracie to speak so openly, especially considering what had happenedst time. Now, after hours of conversation, Elsa felt they¡¯d grownfortable with each other.


    Gracie shed a gentle smile, expertly peeling an apple. Her hands moved with practiced ease. When she finished, the apple looked perfectly round and inviting.


    She sliced it into neat pieces, arranged them on a te, and offered Elsa a toothpick.


    The gesture touched Elsa. It felt as if Gracie were caring for her the way a daughter-inw would. In Elsa¡¯s eyes, she was exactly the kind of young woman she wanted for her son¡ªthoughtful, respectful, from a decent family.


    Even without wealth, Gracie seemed far better than the headstrong Brenna.


    ¡°Ask anything you like, Mrs. Mitchell. I¡¯ll tell you whatever I can,¡± Gracie said with a smile.


    Though she looked calm, Gracie felt anxious about letting Elsa down. She¡¯d done everything possible today¡ªtending to Belen with care, feeding her, and helping with all the personal tasks that even Belen¡¯s daughter might shy away from.


    ¡°Let¡¯s share the apple,¡± said Elsa, passing Gracie a toothpick.


    ¡°Thank you, Mrs. Mitchell,¡± replied Gracie.


    ¡°What a well-mannered youngdy you are.¡± Elsa felt a wave of satisfaction. Gracie¡¯s good looks and intelligence were matched by her gentle manners. It pleased Elsa to see such courtesy and respect.


    But there was still something on her mind.


    ¡°I heard your father passed away, and your family lost everything. Is that true?¡± Elsa asked.


    The question brought a flicker of sadness to Gracie¡¯s eyes. Memories of her father¡¯s sudden death and the family¡¯s downfall resurfaced. She had gone from living in luxury to struggling just to get by. That wound was still fresh.


    ?????????? ???????????? ????: ??????????¦Í?????????????


    Still, Gracie longed for Elsa¡¯s approval. She didn¡¯t want Elsa to know just how difficult things had be for her. If Elsa thought she was too much of a burden, she might not ept her to be with Ethan.


    ¡°My father passed away, and yes, my family lost everything,¡± Gracie answered, quickly deciding to blend some truth. She hoped to earn sympathy, but not pity. ¡°Are you¡­


    ¡°saddled with debt now?¡± That was the one thing Elsa worried about the most. It didn¡¯t matter if Gracie¡¯s family had gone bankrupt or if she had lost her parents. Ethan had more than enough money and didn¡¯t need to marry for wealth.


    As long as Gracie had no debt to deal with, Elsa had no objections to her being with Ethan.


    Gracie let out a sigh and gave a firm shake of her head. ¡°No. I don¡¯t owe anyone money. My father always kept his business in order, but some people took everything from us. Even so, I still have enough savings to get by on my own.¡±


    .


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    .

 Chapter 1098

    ?Chapter 1098:


    A cheerful smile spread across Elsa¡¯s face. ¡°So that¡¯s how it is. You¡¯re not trying to hide anything from me, right? There have been rumors saying you owe tens of billions. At this point, I¡¯m not even sure what to believe.¡±


    Gracie quietly watched Elsa¡¯s content smile, a wave of relief washing over her. Today, Elsa appeared genuinely satisfied with her. As for Ethan, she would take her time to win him over.


    ¡°Mrs. Mitchell, it¡¯s almost six-thirty, and your mother will likely wake up soon. I¡¯m going to step out to get some food for us, and we can have dinner together when I return,¡± Gracie said, grabbing her purse and preparing to leave. She paused for a moment and then added, ¡°What would you like to eat, Mrs. Mitchell? We haven¡¯t spent much time together, so I¡¯m not sure about your preferences.¡±


    ¡°Could you pick up two servings of vegetable ravioli? My mother adores ravioli, but since her operation, I¡¯d prefer to keep her meals light, even though the doctor says she has no diet restrictions. And get whatever you¡¯d like for yourself,¡± Elsa responded, reaching for her purse to give Gracie some money, not wanting her to cover the cost.


    Gracie gently stopped her. ¡°Mrs. Mitchell, I¡¯ve got this. I can afford to treat you to a meal.¡±


    ¡°No, I insist. You already paid for lunch earlier. I can¡¯t let you keep footing the bill,¡± Elsa said firmly, pulling a few hundred-dor bills from her purse and pressing them into Gracie¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll ept it,¡± Gracie said with a smile, taking the cash before stepping out. Unfamiliar with the area around the hospital, she wandered for a bit before finding a restaurant that served ravioli.


    She purchased two portions of ravioli and a few light side dishes, then headed back to the hospital with the food.


    She stayed with Elsa until nearly eight o¡¯clock in the evening before taking a cab home.


    On her way back, she spotted a pet shop still open and asked the driver to stop so she could go inside.


    Inside, the store buzzed with a diverse array of animals¡ªcats, dogs of every breed, snakes, parrots, even foxes and other exotic pets, offering a wide range of choices.


    A staff member approached her. ¡°Hello, miss, what kind of pet are you looking for? We¡¯ve got a great selection, plus grooming, veterinary care, and all the pet supplies you would need.¡±


    ???????????????? ????????: g????????¦Í?????????????


    Gracie, who had a soft spot for cute pets, asked, ¡°Do you have hamsters?¡±


    ¡°Yes, right this way,¡± the staff member replied, guiding her to the hamster section. Gracie¡¯s eyesnded on a few that reminded her of tiny mice.


    Pointing at them, she said, ¡°I¡¯ll take those.¡±


    ¡°Alright,¡± the staff member replied, cing five gray hamsters into a carrier. ¡°We also have cages for sale. Hamsters can be mischievous and chew up furniture if they¡¯re not contained. Want to check out our cages or maybe some hamster food?¡±


    ¡°No, I¡¯m all set. My pet hamster passed away, so I¡¯ve got a cage and food at home,¡± Gracie lied. She then paid and left the shop.


    Back at her ce, she opened the carrier, letting the hamsters scamper free.


    In moments, all five darted under the couch, vanishing from view.


    She grinned, delighted with how her little scheme was unfolding.


    That night, as she tried to sleep, the faint sounds of chewing on wood or fabric kept her on edge, too nervous to rest. But calling Ethan for help so soon after getting the hamsters felt premature.


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 Chapter 1099

    ?Chapter 1099:


    She decided to wait until the chaos at home became more noticeable before calling him.


    The next morning, she went to work as usual.


    Having only joined thepany recently, she hadn¡¯t been assigned any projects yet, so she often stopped by Ethan¡¯s office to offer her help.


    Ethan arrived just after nine-thirty today.


    Upon seeing Gracie, Ethan noticed that her mood was down. ¡°What¡¯s gotten you so down?¡±


    Gracie managed a small smile and carefully chose her words. ¡°Yesterday, I visited the hospital with your mom to see your grandmother. She asked about my background, and I didn¡¯t want to tell her about my massive debt, so I said my family went broke, but I still have enough savings to get by.¡±


    Trying to look pitiful, she added, ¡°I just don¡¯t want her to think less of me. Could you keep my debt a secret from her? Please, Ethan?¡±


    ¡°Of course,¡± Ethan said without hesitation, inwardly annoyed by Elsa¡¯s tendency to dig into his employees¡¯ personal lives. ¡°I¡¯ll keep it a secret.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Ethan. I don¡¯t know how to thank you enough. You gave me a job when I was in a tough spot, and I¡¯m so grateful,¡± Gracie said, her smile warm and genuine.


    After a brief pause, she said, ¡°You know what I¡¯m capable of. I¡¯m ready to take on projects. Could you assign me something?¡±


    Ethan hesitated. There weren¡¯t any new projects avable, and the current ones were already assigned.


    ¡°Can¡¯t you give me the venture capital project? I know I can handle it, Ethan. Trust me,¡± Gracie said in a firm tone.


    But Ethan was reluctant to give her that project, as it was vital for thepany¡¯s sess.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you take on the project in Plomond? There¡¯s a real estate project there that needs someone to lead it,¡± he suggested, thinking this might also address Brenna¡¯s concerns about him working closely with Gracie. He wanted to send Gracie away for a while by doing this.


    ¡°No, I¡¯d rather not leave the city. I just want to stick around you. I¡¯m still new to thepany and worried the team won¡¯t take me seriously,¡± Gracie quickly replied.


    Gracie¡¯s voice trembled with worry. ¡°Pretty much everyone at thepany already knows about my debts, especially the managers. Even people at Plomond have heard about it. Ethan, I just can¡¯t bring myself to leave this city until I¡¯ve paid off what I owe. Please don¡¯t make me go yet, okay?¡±


    ???????????? ?????????????? @ ?????????¦Í?????????????


    Ethan shot her a questioning look, confused by her reluctance. With the Plomond project offering such a heftymission, he figured she¡¯d want to grab the chance to earn more.


    ¡°You realize the Plomond contract pays at least ten million for a year¡¯s work, right? That¡¯s a huge sum. You really don¡¯t want to work on that project?¡± he said.


    Gracie shook her head. ¡°I can¡¯t stand how everyone there judges me. No one takes me seriously, and it¡¯s impossible to get them on board. Ethan, can¡¯t you let me handle the venture capital project instead? Thatmission is even bigger, and I¡¯d much rather be on that team.¡±


    Ethan gave her a firm answer. ¡°Absolutely not. Thepany¡¯s counting on this project, and frankly, no one wants you to head it. I can¡¯t risk it.¡±


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 Chapter 1100

    ?Chapter 1100:


    With the conversation at a dead end, Gracie¡¯s spirits took a dive. Still, she understood she had no real power to argue her case.


    Just then, her phone buzzed. She nced down to see Elsa¡¯s name shing on the screen. After answering the video call, she made sure Ethan was also visible on camera.


    Ethan, uninterested in chatting with Elsa, quietly returned to his desk.


    Gracie put on a joyful expression and said, ¡°Hi, Mrs. Mitchell! How¡¯s your mother doing today?¡±


    Elsa was by Belen¡¯s side in the hospital room, looking after her as she recovered from a painful pelvic injury that left her unable to sit up. Gently, she helped Belen eat.


    Spotting Ethan in the background, Belen called out, ¡°Ethan, why haven¡¯t you visited me recently?¡±


    Sickness had left Belen feeling even more delicate than usual, and her patience for Ethan¡¯s packed schedule had worn thin.


    Ethan set aside his work and walked over. ¡°Grandma, I¡¯ll stop by after I¡¯m done here, probably around noon. Is there anything special you¡¯d like for lunch? I¡¯ll bring it to you.¡±


    Belen¡¯s mood brightened right away. ¡°That¡¯s what I wanted to hear! Could you pick up two orders of pasta from my favorite restaurant for me?¡±


    Ethan let out a softugh. ¡°Of course, Grandma. I will make sure to bring it to you. Take care.¡±


    Elsa fixed Ethan with a pointed look. ¡°Are you ready to leave already? You barely spoke with your grandmother. Are you really that busy? Don¡¯t even think about leaving yet. Look at Gracie; she was here all day yesterday, keeping your grandmother entertained. And here you are, her own grandson, acting like your job is all that matters. Tell me, does making money reallye before your family in your eyes?¡±


    Elsa made a show of praising Gracie, hoping Ethan would finally notice the patience and warmth Gracie showed his family¡ªqualities she thought made Gracie an ideal partner.


    Ethan barely gave it any thought. It never urred to him that Gracie had chosen to help out of kindness for Elsa and Belen. In his mind, he believed his mother had simply pressured Gracie into going to the hospital.


    ¡°Mom, Gracie¡¯s got her own responsibilities. She¡¯s a vice president here, not part of our family. Why did you drag her to the hospital? She¡¯s got enough on her te,¡± Ethan replied, his voice steady but with a trace of criticism.


    ?????????????? ?????????????????? ????????: ?????????¦Í??????©q?????


    Gracie quickly said, ¡°Oh, I went there because I wanted to. Your grandmother has been feeling down, and I just wanted to keep herpany. When my dad was ill, I did the same thing for him, so I know how much it helps. Honestly, your mother and grandmother are like family to me now. It¡¯s really no trouble at all, Ethan. I¡¯ll go spend time with your grandmother since I¡¯m not swamped with work at the moment.¡±


    A pleased smile spread across Elsa¡¯s face after hearing Gracie¡¯s words.


    She said, ¡°Just look at how she treats your grandmother! Sometimes, I think she¡¯s more considerate to her than you ever were. Money¡¯s always on your mind, but you need to remember how much your grandmother cared for you when you were little. Promise me you¡¯lle here at noon and spend some time with her.¡±


    Ethan found himself out of arguments. Any other day, he might have pushed back, but with Belen in the mix, he couldn¡¯t bring himself to say no. For now, he just went along with whatever Elsa wanted.


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 Chapter 1101

    ?Chapter 1101:


    ¡°Okay, okay. I¡¯ll visit her at noon, I promise.¡±


    By the door, ni had been holding cups of coffee quietly for a while, having heard everything they had said.


    Once the video call wrapped up, she stepped inside, set the coffee on the table, and asked, ¡°Would you like me to prepare breakfast for you, Mr. Mitchell?¡± She¡¯d picked up on Ethan¡¯s habit of skipping breakfast before work, knowing how demanding his ¡­


    Schedule was demanding, and ni knew his stomach could be sensitive, so she always tried to check whether he¡¯d want breakfast.


    ¡°I¡¯m good, thanks. My mom has been staying with me and makes sure I eat in the mornings. But could you pick up two orders of pasta from the restaurant I always go to downstairs? Grab a few side dishes that would be suitable for my grandmother to eat, too,¡± Ethan said in a gentle tone.


    Hearing that, Gracie felt her mood lift. Ethan¡¯s earlier refusal didn¡¯t bother her anymore. ¡°I¡¯m off to see your grandmother at the hospital. See you at lunchtime, Ethan.¡±


    Picking up on Ethan¡¯sck of resistance to herpany, Gracie recalled the instructions he¡¯d given earlier.


    She was unfamiliar with Shirie, and she wanted to build stronger ties with both Belen and Elsa, hoping that would help her get closer to Ethan.


    She lingered around her office, keeping an eye on the hallway, and only made her move when she spotted ni heading out to go to the restaurant. Just as ni approached the elevator, Gracie called out with a bright tone, ¡°ni!¡±


    ¡°Ms. Wilson,¡± ni said, her mind briefly puzzling over why the usually reserved vice president was suddenly acting so warm. One nce caught a calcting spark in Gracie¡¯s eyes.


    Observing ni, Gracie couldn¡¯t help but note her striking looks, just like the other women in the secretarial department. Impable makeup, tailored outfits¡ªeach one projectedpetence and style.


    Plus, these secretaries enjoyed daily one-on-one interactions with Ethan, and Gracie couldn¡¯t believe they didn¡¯t have feelings for him.


    ni, in particr, held a key position. Handling Ethan¡¯s refreshments and attending to his daily needs meant she had plenty of opportunities to be alone with him.


    ???????????????? ??????????: ???????¦Í?????????????


    Seizing the rare chance for a private conversation, Gracie asked curiously, ¡°Are you married?¡±


    A gentle smile crossed ni¡¯s face as she replied, her manner impable, ¡°Yes, I am. My child is already a few years old.¡±


    The answer caught Gracie off guard. She¡¯d always figured someone as young, attractive, and capable as ni must have joined thepany to seduce Ethan, only to learn ni was already a wife and mother.


    On second thought, it made sense. If ni were single, Ethan likely wouldn¡¯t have allowed her to get so close to him. A casualpliment left Gracie¡¯s lips. ¡°No way! You look so young and fit; no one would guess you¡¯re already a mom.¡±


    Pleased by the praise, ni opened up a bit, making small talk with Gracie after getting into the elevator. Still, she mostly answered Gracie¡¯s questions. Approaching the lobby, Gracie turned to ni and asked, ¡°Are you heading out to get lunch for Ethan¡¯s grandmother?¡±


    .


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 Chapter 1102

    ?Chapter 1102:


    ni, quick to catch Gracie¡¯s real motive, answered evenly, ¡°Yes, Mr. Mitchell just asked me to take care of it. Secretaries like me often handle these sorts of errands.¡±


    That answer piqued Gracie¡¯s interest. She wanted to bring lunch to Belen, seeing it as a perfect opportunity since she had nothing else to do anyway.


    ¡°How about letting me tag along?¡± Gracie suggested smoothly. ¡°I was nning to visit Ethan¡¯s grandmother anyway. If you pick up the lunch, I could deliver it right to her. Otherwise, it might get cold.¡±


    ni felt an immediate sense of unease¡ªGracie was clearly trying to hijack her task. If she let her do it, how would she exin things to Ethan?


    Did Ethan have any idea what Gracie was trying to do?


    Would he approve of Gracie getting too close to his family?


    Based on everything she knew about Ethan, ni doubted he¡¯d approve of Gracie getting too familiar with his family.


    A polite refusal followed, ni¡¯s tone gentle but firm. ¡°I¡¯m afraid that won¡¯t work, Ms. Wilson. Mr. Mitchell specifically asked me to bring the food straight to him, and he¡¯s nning to bring it to his grandmother at lunch. If I pass it to you, what will he have to give her? That could cause trouble, and you know Mr. Mitchell won¡¯t be happy about that.¡±


    Her answer was wrapped in a polite smile.


    Frustration flickered in Gracie¡¯s eyes, her arrogant side emerging as she retorted, ¡°You¡¯re just a secretary. Who are you to turn me down? Aren¡¯t you worried that I will make you lose your job just by saying a few words to Ethan?¡±


    A wave of frustration washed over ni, but she kept her feelings tightly in check. She knew all too well that crossing Gracie could spell trouble, especially if she went running to Ethan withints.


    Unlike Brenna, who wouldn¡¯t hesitate to challenge Gracie, nicked both the nerve and the special ce in Ethan¡¯s life to do that. If Gracieined to Ethan about her, she could easily lose her job.


    Feigning cooperation, ni said, ¡°Alright. So, you¡¯d rather I skip the errand and leave lunch for Mr. Mitchell¡¯s grandmother to you?¡±


    She agreed on the surface, though she wasn¡¯t happy about being bullied by Gracie and wanted to set a trap for her.


    ?????????? ????????: ?????????¦Í??????©q??????


    ¡°I don¡¯t know where that restaurant is or what Ethan¡¯s grandmother prefers. You¡¯reing along with me, end of discussion.¡± Gracie¡¯s tone brooked no argument, and she med ni for pushing her to this edge.


    ni was unhappy but had no choice but toply.


    Annoyance bubbling inside, she fired off a quick message to Lorna, venting about being cornered by Gracie.


    Despite everything, ni led the way, guiding Gracie to the restaurant as requested.


    Gracie had already spent enough time with Belen to know her slightly. Besides the two ravioli orders Belen had specifically requested, she chose a handful of extra dishes, careful to match Belen¡¯s tastes.


    ni kept her silence, but every gesture showed how little she liked the arrangement.


    But after Gracie had left with the takeout boxes, ni ced another order: two servings of vegetarian ravioli, two servings of different meat-filled ravioli, several dishes suitable for the elderly, as well as some of Ethan¡¯s favorite dishes. Only then did she take a taxi back to thepany.


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 Chapter 1103

    ?Chapter 1103:


    ni returned just as Ethan wrapped up his call.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ve got it,¡± he said before ending the call.


    Dropping the takeout bags onto the table, ni let out a sigh and began telling Ethan about the situation Gracie had put her in.


    After that, she said, ¡°Mr. Mitchell, Gracie already brought the food to the hospital, so I ordered another set. Do you still want to take it to the hospital with you?¡±


    Ethan didn¡¯t give ni a hard time. ¡°It¡¯s alright. I¡¯ll take some of it with me. Gracie probably doesn¡¯t know what my grandmother likes to eat. Even though my mom asked for two vegetarian raviolis, I know for a fact my grandma prefers hers stuffed with meat.¡±


    ni¡¯s nerves eased a little after hearing that. Gracie had mostly picked vegetarian options from the restaurant, trying to please Belen.


    She said, ¡°That¡¯s a relief. I got two meat dishes as well. Both are specialties at the restaurant, and honestly, they taste amazing.¡±


    Each container had abel, so Ethan nced over them, picked out six dishes and two servings of ravioli, and left the rest on the table.


    ¡°Bring these over to Brenna,¡± he instructed. With time slipping away and Belen calling again to check if he was on his way, Ethan couldn¡¯t stick around to deliver the food to Brenna himself.


    Meanwhile, in Brenna¡¯s office, Alec stood there in his security uniform, fumbling to exin himself. He looked like he was on the verge of tears.


    Brenna sat across from Alec, her face unreadable as she listened.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what else to do, Brenna. I¡¯m really asking for your help; your grandma always looked out for you before. She¡¯s in the hospital right now, waiting for surgery, and her heart can¡¯t handle the wait much longer. Her blood pressure¡¯s also high. I¡¯ve already burned through everything I saved, and I still need a hundred and seventy thousand dors for the operation. That¡¯s the kind of money you¡¯d spend on a dress or a purse.¡±


    Alec¡¯s voice was thick with desperation. When Brenna first left the Barrett family, Alec¡¯s mother, Joann Barrett, was still healthy. Back then, Joann couldn¡¯t bear to watch the family treat Brenna so coldly and tried to change their minds, but nobody listened. The family just brushed her off, seeing her as a burden.


    After putting up with their indifference for too long, Joann chose to move into a retirement home. She wanted something decent, so she asked Alec to arrange for the best amodations when the family was still wealthy.


    Not wanting his mother to settle for less, Alec paid in advance for five years of premium care.


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    But things changed after the Barrett family went bankrupt. Alec had his own problems to juggle and barely made time to visit her.


    Just two days ago, the care facility called Alec to say Joann had fallen ill and had been hospitalized. Tests showed she¡¯d need a heart bypass.


    Alec wanted to make sure she got the best treatment, even if that meant using expensive imported materials. But when L found out the treatment would be expensive, she refused to give Alec any money.


    She told Alec to find the money himself, or she¡¯d leave him.


    Alec reached out to Mack and Isabe, hoping they would help. But Mack simply told him he was broke and wouldn¡¯t help, while Isabe, who felt no attachment to Joann, was even less willing to help.


    With nowhere else to turn, Alec found himself pleading with Brenna.


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 Chapter 1104

    ?Chapter 1104:


    Brenna¡¯s expression softened slightly. ¡°I¡¯ll go visit Grandma. When I was young, she was the only one in the Barrett family who cared about me. If it weren¡¯t for her, I wouldn¡¯t have made it through those years. She looked after me then, so now that she is in the hospital, the least I can do is see her.¡±


    Alec¡¯s eyes were filled with gratitude. ¡°Brenna, I can¡¯t thank you enough. It¡¯s honestly crushing how little Mack and Isabe care about their grandmother, especially Mack. She used to spoil him, and now that she needs help, he won¡¯t even offer a cent. I am furious with him. He¡¯ll never see another dor from me.¡±


    Without saying another word, Brenna grabbed her purse and made for the door. Just then, ni walked in, holding takeout bags.


    ¡°Ms. Harper, are you heading out?¡± ni asked. ¡°Mr. Mitchell wanted you to have these for lunch.¡±


    She untied the bag and held it open so Brenna could peek inside.


    A quick nce was all Brenna needed. ¡°Thanks, I¡¯ll bring these with me. I¡¯m on my way to the hospital, and this¡¯ll save me the trouble of grabbing lunchter.¡±


    ni smiled. ¡°Alright then, I¡¯ll get back to work now.¡±


    Brenna gave a polite nod and stepped into the elevator with Alec at her side.


    As the doors slid shut, ni couldn¡¯t help but nce over at Alec, noticing how puffy his eyes looked. It was clear he hadn¡¯te to Brenna¡¯s office without a reason.


    Lorna leaned closer to ni and whispered, ¡°He was crying earlier.¡±


    ¡°At his age? Must be because of something serious,¡± ni replied, curiosity piqued as she and Lorna headed toward the break room to chat.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t hear much, but I think it was about money. I definitely heard something about surgery fees,¡± Lorna said.


    The bodyguard drove Brenna to Shirie Hospital with Alec in the car. Looking around at the luxurious interior, Alec estimated the car was worth over ten million.


    Regret settled in as Alec recalled the rash way he¡¯d driven Brenna out of his life, never bothering to learn her true background, watching her be a person from a wealthy family while he gained nothing at all. But this turn of events opened his eyes to the truth: Brenna wasn¡¯t cold or unfeeling, but a girl guided by a genuine conscience.


    A burst of gratitude escaped him. ¡°Brenna, I owe you a real thank you this time. Without you, there¡¯s no way your grandmother would pull through this.¡± Alec¡¯s words rang with sincerity; he was convinced that Brenna¡¯s kindness outshone anything he¡¯d seen from Mack or Isabe. Regret for conspiring with Rosie against Brenna crept in.


    A new thought took hold: If Brenna kept showing such kindness to him and his mother, he would no longer listen to Rosie.


    ???????? ???????? ???? ??????????????: g?????????¦Í????????????


    Arriving at the hospital, Brenna caught a glimpse of Ethan, standing inside an elevator just as the doors were about to slide shut.


    Spotting Brenna, Ethan quickly tapped the button, holding the doors open for her.


    She hurried inside, joining him before the elevator could close.


    ¡°Visiting my grandmother, too?¡± Ethan asked, his tone measured. ¡°My mom¡¯s already upstairs.¡±


    His meaning was unmistakable; he preferred to keep Brenna and Elsa apart, avoiding any friction.


    Brenna replied softly, ¡°Actually, I¡¯m here to see my grandmother from the Barrett family. She¡¯s ill.¡±


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 Chapter 1105

    ?Chapter 1105:


    Alec stepped in with a polite nod toward Ethan, saying, ¡°I heard your grandmother¡¯s in the hospital, too. Older people really do need a little extra care when they¡¯re ill.¡±


    Ethan offered nothing more than a nod. Memories of how Alec had treated Brenna before kept any warmth at bay.


    He then said to Brenna, ¡°If you need a rmendation, I know some of the best doctors here.¡±


    Brenna declined politely, saying, ¡°Let me see how she¡¯s doing first.¡± With that, she and Alec stepped out of the elevator and headed down the hall.


    No sooner had they neared Brenna¡¯s grandmother¡¯s room than amotion reached their ears¡ªa child wailing, a woman shouting, and a crowd blocking the doorway.


    A sinking feeling hit Alec as he recognized the door number; it was his mother¡¯s room. He had left L and their son to keep his motherpany, and now, something had clearly happened.


    He surged forward, his face clouding with dread, and began pushing his way through the onlookers.


    ¡°Excuse me, please,¡± he muttered, squeezing past.


    Inside, the scene was chaotic. L stood near the bed, their little boy sobbing uncontrobly, his white hoodie sttered with soup. On the floor, a takeout boxy overturned, soup pooling around shrimp shells and a few uneaten shrimp.


    L, her voice sharp with fury, jabbed an usatory finger toward the frail woman lying in bed. ¡°How can you be so selfish? Those meals cost a fortune, and you¡¯re actually fighting with a child for food? Have you no shame? Did you forget I had to cancel his tutoring just to cover your hospital bills?¡±


    Anger boiling over, Alec grabbed L¡¯s arm. ¡°What¡¯s gotten into you? That¡¯s my mother! She¡¯s sick; how could you talk to her that way?¡±


    L snapped, her voice rising. ¡°Why can¡¯t I talk to her that way? I feed her and pay for her treatment. I have to save her life. What¡¯s wrong with me saying a few harsh words to her?¡±


    On the bed, Alec¡¯s mother was crying, her tears soaking the pillow, looking pitiful.


    A momentter, Brenna entered the room. The sight of her once-loving grandmother reduced to tears cut straight to her heart.


    ?????? ???????? ?????????? ????: g????????¦Í????????????


    She knew her grandmother had always been kind to others and never gotten into arguments with anyone. Even when Ruby was her son¡¯s wife, she had never spoken a harsh word to her and had always remained courteous. Seeing L¡¯s unreasonable and arrogant behavior, Brenna felt L was clearly at fault.


    Steeling herself, Brenna spoke in an even tone. ¡°What¡¯s going on here?¡±


    The instant L recognized Brenna, surprise shed in her eyes.


    She knew Brenna was now from the powerful Harper family, and Alec often mentioned Brenna at home, regretting his poor treatment of her before.


    ¡°Miss Harper¡­¡± L stumbled, her voice wavering. She had expected Brenna to turn her back on the Barrett family, given their treatment of her.


    She had thought Brenna would want nothing to do with the Barrett family, maybe even wish them misfortune. Yet, here Brenna was, visiting Alec¡¯s mother.


    Wide-eyed, L didn¡¯t know what to say.


    Brenna asked again, ¡°What happened?¡±


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 Chapter 1106

    ?Chapter 1106:


    While L fumbled for words, Brenna quietly grabbed a tissue, dabbing at her grandmother¡¯s wet cheeks and blotting the soup from the sheets. Her voice broke with emotion. ¡°You didn¡¯t deserve this, Grandma.¡±


    Recognition red in her grandmother¡¯s eyes, hope and relief mingling. ¡°Brenna, you¡¯re really here¡­¡± Gripping Brenna¡¯s hand tightly, she managed a trembling smile. ¡°Now that I¡¯ve seen you again, my heart can rest easy, even if I will die soon.¡±


    ¡°As long as I¡¯m here, I won¡¯t let you die,¡± Brenna said firmly.


    A softness flickered across her usual cold features as she noticed the crumpled, stained bedsheet beneath Joann. She didn¡¯t want her to use something so dirty.


    The hospital room looked ordinary, and three patients had to share the cramped space. The noise never seemed to stop, and the air felt stale while the floor looked as if no one had cleaned it in days. The beds were far from cozy, and nothing about the room could be calledfortable.


    ¡°I really don¡¯t want to trouble you,¡± Joann said, guilt weighing down her words. She felt guilty as she remembered the days she couldn¡¯t shield Brenna from Ruby¡¯s and Alec¡¯s harshness. Yet now, Brenna showed her only kindness, never resentment.


    ¡°How is this a burden? Remember how you cared for me when I was small? Now it¡¯s my turn to look after you,¡± said Brenna. She reached for Joann¡¯s hand. ¡°Let me find a better hospital room for you, so you can be morefortable. I¡¯ll handle everything.¡±


    L, who had been watching from the foot of the bed, frowned. ¡°That¡¯s unnecessary. The private hospital rooms cost a fortune. Wouldn¡¯t it make more sense to use the money to buy Joann some good supplements instead?¡± She viewed Brenna as a walking wallet. She saw her as someone who was rich and generous, yet too busy to offer real caregiving.


    Considering how terribly the Barrett family had once treated Brenna, it made sense to think she showed up only because she felt thankful for the way Joann had looked after her long ago. She believed Brenna would just leave some money this time and never return again.


    L started figuring out the amount of money Brenna could possibly hand over this time, not even caring about her son anymore, whose crayfish had been knocked over by Joann.


    Yet, her son¡¯s loud sobs filled the air, and the noise got on her nerves. She kept herposure and said to him, ¡°Calm down. When Brenna gives us money, I will get you more crayfish to eat.¡±


    The boy fell silent, looking up as he asked, ¡°Really?¡±


    ?????????? ?????????? ????: g???????¦Í????????£®??????


    ¡°Of course. When have I lied to you?¡± said L, nodding for emphasis.


    Carefully, Brenna dabbed at the stains on the bedside table. As she nced at the soup and crayfish scattered on the floor, her gaze turned cold. ¡°You can see the mess, can¡¯t you? Clean it up. Now,¡± she said, leveling her eyes at L.


    L felt as if she was being treated like a servant. Brenna¡¯s disdainful gaze and superior demeanor made her ufortable. Deep down, L expected Brenna to show at least a bit of politeness toward her.


    The longer L dwelt on it, the more her frustration grew. Based on what Alec had said, Brenna shared a strong bond with Joann and had leaned on her heavily when she was young. Brenna should care about Joann.


    In the future, L believed Joann would still be under her care. Brenna should humbly ask her to take good care of Joann and leave a substantial amount of money for that purpose.


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 Chapter 1107

    ?Chapter 1107:


    But why was Brenna treating her with this attitude? Did Brenna not worry that she might end up mistreating Joann down the line?


    ¡°After today, Miss Harper, you won¡¯t visit again, and Joann will still be here with me. Maybe you should think about showing a little courtesy to me and giving me some money for taking care of Joann from now on. How could you speak to me in such a manner?¡± L said.


    A scowl twisted her features, but Brenna¡¯s thoughts wandered to that ugly moment when L had screamed at Joann. Without warning, she swung her hand, striking L across the cheek.


    The p rang out in the quiet room. L lost her bnce and tumbled straight into the mess on the floor. In an instant, stains ruined the soft fabric of her dress.


    Enraged, L scrambled upright, her voice loud and trembling. ¡°What gives you the right to hit me? You did that on purpose, didn¡¯t you? Just because you have money doesn¡¯t give you the right to do anything as you please!¡±


    Soup dripped from her skirt as she pushed herself up, fury etched on her face. Her hand curled into a fist, ready to hit Brenna back.


    But as she lifted her hand, she felt her hair being grabbed and yanked back forcefully.


    She fell to the floor again and looked back to see a man in a ck suit, expressionless. ¡°Who are you? How dare you do that to me?¡±


    Brenna, folding her arms across her chest, responded in an even tone, ¡°That is my bodyguard.¡±


    L stood there in stunned silence. It dawned on her that she hadpletely misjudged the situation. Brenna was not one to mess with.


    Wealth and connections surrounded Brenna like armor. With barely a gesture, she could have L put in her ce.


    Turning to Alec, L hoped for some support, but he looked the other way, acting as if he hadn¡¯t seen what had just happened.


    Her patience running thin, L shot Alec a furious re. ¡°Are you just going to stand there, or are you finally going to help me up?¡±


    Alec moved with reluctance, helping her up as if each movement cost him. ¡°You really should watch your attitude toward Brenna,¡± Alec said, lowering his voice. ¡°It was no small feat convincing Brenna to evene here. Have you forgotten? She covered the cost of our son¡¯s winter jacket. I still haven¡¯t paid her back. Besides, we can¡¯t afford to offend her.¡±


    Alec kept giving her pointed looks, urging her to see that Brenna wasn¡¯t someone they could afford to cross.


    ???????????? ???????????????? ???????? g???????¦Í??????©q??????


    His eyes rested on the red imprint blooming across L¡¯s cheek, which seemed painful. But he didn¡¯t say anything tofort her.


    L understood exactly what Alec was getting at. She shot a menacing re toward Joann, lying on the bed, already nning that once Brenna left, she would unleash every bit of her anger on Joann.


    ¡°Apologize to Joann now,¡± Brenna¡¯s clear voice demanded, leaving no room for refusal.


    ¡°Why should I apologize? It was her fault! I bought crayfish for my son, and while I was just in the restroom, she knocked them over. My boy said he had just peeled one when she dared to ask him for it. At her age, she still wanted to take food from my son? How shameless!¡±


    Just then, a loud sound split the air.


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 Chapter 1108

    ?Chapter 1108:


    L¡¯s body was smashed into the wall before crashing hard onto the floor.


    ¡°What was that?¡± Brenna demanded, pressing her foot hard against L¡¯s chest. ¡°Repeat it.¡±


    The increasing pressure made L gasp, her ribs aching as if they might snap. ¡°I can¡¯t breathe,¡± she whimpered, fearcing her voice.


    Seth, L¡¯s young son, watched in terror as his mothery pinned beneath Brenna¡¯s foot. Ovee with desperation, he charged at Brenna, shouting, ¡°You¡¯re a monster! Let my mom go!¡±


    The guard intercepted Seth, catching him mid-lunge. ¡°Stay back, kid, or you¡¯ll get hit, too,¡± he warned coldly.


    But Seth, too young to grasp the danger, thrashed wildly, scratching at the guard with both hands and screaming, ¡°Let her go! Let my mom go!¡±


    Unfazed by the boy¡¯s age, the guard silenced him with a sharp p across the face.


    ¡°Don¡¯t hurt my son!¡± L shrieked, panic flooding her as she realized Brenna was not to be trifled with. ¡°Please, Miss Harper, don¡¯t hurt my son. I was wrong. I¡¯ll apologize to Joann now.¡±


    Alec¡¯s heart twisted as he watched his wife and son at Brenna¡¯s mercy. L had been harsh to himtely, and part of him had wanted her humbled, but seeing her degraded like this stung. She was, after all, his onlypanion in hister years.


    ¡°Brenna, please stop. She sees her mistake now. Let her go,¡± Alec pleaded.


    Brenna lifted her foot. ¡°Apologize to Joann.¡±


    L, having never faced such intimidation, was terrified by Brenna¡¯s presence. With her son held by the guard, she dared not defy Brenna. She dropped to her knees.


    ¡°Joann, I¡¯m so sorry. I¡¯ll cook for you, serve you¡ªanything you need. Just please ask Miss Harper to spare us.¡±


    Joann eyed L with disdain, wishing she could be rid of her. But she knew she still relied on L¡¯s care. Pushing her too far now would only invite troubleter. She was left with no other choice but to forgive L. She med her son for all of this.


    If Alec hadn¡¯t squandered his wealth into bankruptcy, would L ever have gained such a foothold in the Barrett family?


    Joann gritted her teeth, forcing herself to suppress her resentment. ¡°Get up. It¡¯s alright. I forgive you,¡± she said.


    ???????????? ???????????????? ?????? ????????: g???????¦Í????????????


    Brenna was fully aware of her grandmother¡¯s temperament; she knew Joann had no desire to stir up further conflict.


    Joann might worry about L potentially making things difficult for her, but Brenna didn¡¯t.


    ¡°My grandmother already told you to stand up, so stand up. You can leave. Your presence is no longer required here,¡± Brennamanded, her voice cold and firm.


    The guard let go of Seth, allowing the frightened boy to rush into his mother¡¯s arms.


    Seth clung to L, trembling, while she was still stunned from what had just happened.


    After a while, she said, ¡°Miss Harper, you cannot watch Joann all the time. She still needs my care. You can¡¯t just dismiss me like this.¡±


    She shot a subtle nce at Alec, signaling him to follow through on their scheme.


    Alec stepped forward, ying his part. ¡°Brenna, how about you give me some money? I¡¯ll see to it that Joann¡¯s room is upgraded and that her surgery costs are covered. We¡¯ll take care of everything. You¡¯re swamped with work; no need to trouble yourself with Joann¡¯s care.¡±


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 Chapter 1109

    ?Chapter 1109:


    Brenna¡¯s sharp gaze pinned him. ¡°You¡¯re asking me for money?¡±


    She knew Alec¡¯s character all too well; he was no dutiful son.


    ¡°I¡¯ll make sure every cent goes to your grandmother¡¯s care. We¡¯ll look after her, I promise,¡± Alec stammered, intimidated by Brenna¡¯s stare.


    ¡°How much are you asking for?¡± Brenna¡¯s lips curved into a faint, probing smile, testing whether Alec¡¯s recent good behavior was genuine.


    Her sharp gaze made him shift ufortably.


    Alec, sticking to the n he had hatched with L, raised three fingers.


    ¡°Three hundred thousand?¡± Brenna asked.


    ¡°No, no, that¡¯s not enough. Your grandmother needs costly supplements. We¡¯re talking at least three million. You are filthy rich. That¡¯s pocket change for you,¡± L said.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think I need to give you any money,¡± Brenna said. ¡°I¡¯ll handle all payments myself. You just focus on her care.¡±


    ¡°No! You really don¡¯t have to do this. Just give us the money, and we will handle everything,¡± Alec said, feeling his n crumble. Brenna¡¯s wealth was immense, and he was desperate to secure a piece of it.


    Brenna met his gaze coolly, making Alec feel exposed. He could not maintain eye contact.


    ¡°I¡¯ll speak with the doctor about whether Joann needs surgery and how much it¡¯ll cost,¡± Brenna said, her tone devoid of warmth.


    Alec¡¯s unease surged, and he grabbed her arm in a panic. ¡°No need to bother the doctor. Just ask me.¡±


    Joann, rmed, tugged at Brenna¡¯s sleeve. ¡°Surgery? I don¡¯t need any such thing. My body¡¯s too old for that!¡±


    Brenna¡¯s gaze turned cold as she fixed her eyes on Alec. ¡°So you made up that whole story about needing the money for surgery? I can¡¯t believe you¡¯d stoop that low.¡±


    ¡°Wait, Brenna, please hear me out. My n was for my mom to have the surgery so she could finally get better. She kept telling me she was too old and scared she wouldn¡¯t survive the operation. I wanted the best for her. Just taking medicine isn¡¯t a long-term answer. I never meant to swindle you out of your money. I truly hoped my mother would get the surgery.¡± Alec turned toward Joann, desperation in his eyes. ¡°Mom, can you stop saying things that aren¡¯t true? The doctor told you that your heart¡¯s arteries are dangerously narrow. You need that bypass, or you won¡¯t have much time left. Why didn¡¯t you tell Brenna this?¡±


    Joann¡¯s nerves were frayed. She had overheard Alec and her daughter-inw whispering about their scheme to use her as a pawn to get money from Brenna. She would never let their n seed.


    ???????????????? ???????????? @ g???????¦Í?????????????


    ¡°Just leave me be. I refuse to undergo the surgery, and I will not take any medicine,¡± said Joann, her voice trembling as if she might burst into tears the next second.


    With a gentle voice, Brenna reassured her, saying, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I won¡¯t let them trick me. I¡¯m not the pushover I used to be. No one¡¯s going to take advantage of me now.¡±


    Her steady confidence made Joann¡¯s eyes fill with tears. ¡°Brenna, listen to me. You should leave. They¡¯re both selfish and only care about what they can get. It will never end well for you if you stay. I¡¯ve lived over eighty years. That¡¯s enough for me. I don¡¯t want to trouble you.¡±


    Joann¡¯s voice softened as she continued, ¡°You¡¯ve always been kind. I know exactly how much you¡¯ve suffered all these years. Now that you finally have a good life, don¡¯t let them ruin it.¡±


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 Chapter 1110

    Chapter 1110:


    ¡°I won¡¯t let them hurt me, Grandma,¡± Brenna said.


    Alec frowned at his mother¡¯s words, clearly upset. ¡°Mom, I am your son. How could you talk about me that way?¡±


    Brenna didn¡¯t even flinch as she red at him. ¡°Keep quiet. Did I say you could speak?¡±


    Alec mped his mouth shut.


    Brenna gave the bodyguard instructions to stay with Joann, then headed off to speak with the doctor. She soon found out that Joann¡¯s health made surgery too risky, and the doctor rmended a less invasive treatment instead. There was a particr medication that could help, although it came with a high price tag.


    Brenna decided to use the medication.


    After the doctor handed her a prescription, she made her way to the payment counter, paid the bill, and picked up the medicine.


    Meanwhile, inside the hospital room, L grabbed Alec and their son and led them into the hallway. She wasted no time scolding Alec right there in the corridor.


    ¡°I told you to just get the money from Brenna! Why did you bring her here? Now you¡¯ve made everythingplicated!¡±


    Alec couldn¡¯t hide his frustration. Deep down, he still cared for his mother and hated seeing her treated as nothing more than a pawn to get money. L¡¯s attitude bothered him even more when he realized she never truly intended to care for Joann, only to use her.


    Watching L hurl insults at his mother had filled him with a deep sense of resentment toward her.


    But he couldn¡¯t divorce L now. If they divorced, he would have to move out of her house, and his meager earnings wouldn¡¯t be enough for him to get by. No matter how dissatisfied he was, he had to endure it.


    ¡°Do you think I didn¡¯t try? At first, I told her she could just offer some money. I assumed she felt nothing for the Barrett family and would have no desire to visit my mother. But the moment she found out about my mom¡¯s hospitalization, she looked truly worried and decided toe here with me.¡±


    Frustration weighed heavily on Alec. He understood Brenna too well and was afraid that she could see right through his act of pretending to help Joann just to get money from her.


    After a pause, he continued, ¡°There¡¯s no point arguing about it now. Let¡¯s just focus on my mom. If we treat my mother well, Brenna might give us some money as a thank-you gift.¡±


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    Alec thought L would at least stay to take care of Joann, as she had promised Brenna earlier.


    With that, he took L¡¯s hand and was about to lead her back toward the hospital room.


    But L yanked her hand away from Alec and snorted.


    ¡°I already asked her for money. She didn¡¯t give us a single cent. And you still think she¡¯ll give us moneyter? Keep dreaming! If you want someone to look after your mom, do it yourself. She¡¯s not my responsibility.¡±


    With that, she stormed off holding her son¡¯s hand, leaving Alec behind with a heavy sigh.


    Inside the elevator, L murmured to her son, ¡°If I¡¯d known your dad would turn out this useless, I never would have bothered with him. Marrying him was a mistake. I thought maybe he¡¯d at least make it as a manager, maybe earn a few million every year. But look at him now, working as a security guard. I feel embarrassed just talking about this.¡±


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    Message from Noah: Have a nice week dear ones. God loves you and Noah wishes you all the best. (? ?? ? ¨C ? ) ?


    .

 Chapter 1111

    ?Chapter 1111:


    Once they stepped out of the hospital, L¡¯s phone started ringing.


    Her mother¡¯s voice came through the line. ¡°Didn¡¯t you say you were filing for divorce? What are you waiting for? Alec is nothing but a burden to you. Are you really nning to take care of him for the rest of your life?¡±


    L¡¯s patience was wearing thin. ¡°Please, Mom, I¡¯ve had enough. He made me take care of his ill mother today. It¡¯s infuriating.¡±


    ¡°What? Absolutely not! You need to leave him right away. After the divorce, you¡¯ll have no trouble finding someone better. You¡¯re still young and pretty, after all.¡±


    L ended the call in frustration and said to her son, ¡°This day couldn¡¯t get much worse. Let¡¯s just grab some food and go home.¡±


    Alec¡¯s spirits were low as he and the bodyguard helped settle Joann into the VIP ward.


    From her hospital bed, Joann managed to sound a bit stronger after her morning treatment. ¡°Alec, I¡¯m starving,¡± she murmured, looking at her son. ¡°All I hadst night was some spaghetti, and I haven¡¯t eaten anything today. I am so hungry. Could you get me something to eat?¡±


    The bodyguard shot Alec a look of open disdain, judging him for leaving his elderly mother hungry. ¡°How could you be so cruel to your mother? No wonder Miss Harper has no respect for you.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s none of your business. Know your ce and just do what you¡¯re paid for!¡± Alec snapped back, irritation clear in his tone. As he spoke, his eyesnded on the takeout bags Brenna had brought, and he reached for them. But before Alec could grab them, the bodyguard snatched them first and red at him. ¡°Don¡¯t touch these. Miss Harper brought them here.¡±


    Flushed with embarrassment, Alec grumbled, ¡°I¡¯ll let my daughter fire you soon!¡±


    The bodyguard just chuckled, unbothered. ¡°I¡¯ll be waiting.¡±


    He carefully unpacked the food onto Joann¡¯s bedside table, describing each dish with gentle patience.


    ¡°These are from Miss Harper. All your favorite dishes. It¡¯s been a while since you¡¯ve had a meal like this, hasn¡¯t it?¡±


    Joann sighed internally at her son¡¯s pathetic state right now, being bullied even by a bodyguard.


    She then picked up her fork. ¡°The dishes all look wonderful.¡±


    ?????????????????? ?????????? ????: ????????¦Í????????????


    Later, Brenna stepped into the room and saw Joann savoring her meal. ¡°Grandma, how¡¯s the food?¡±


    Joann beamed at Brenna, her smile bright. ¡°It¡¯s delicious! I haven¡¯t tasted food this good in ages. There¡¯s still plenty. Come join me. I can¡¯t finish it all alone.¡± Brenna ced the medicine aside and smiled. ¡°Alright, let¡¯s eat together.¡±


    Alec lingered nearby, unable to hide his longing. He hadn¡¯t eaten food from a nice restaurant for a long time, as nice restaurants were well out of his budget because of his meager ie.


    The aroma of the food was almost too much. His mouth watered, and he swallowed hard, hoping no one would notice. But the bodyguard caught the look.


    Alec tried to get closer to Brenna and Joann to have a taste of the meal, and Joann was about to invite him to join them.


    But before she could say a word, the bodyguard stepped in, blocking Alec with an outstretched arm. ¡°What do you think you¡¯re doing? There are only four dishes. It¡¯s barely enough for two women.¡±


    ¡°I really don¡¯t need much. Just a taste,¡± Alec said, unwilling to give up. Meals from an expensive restaurant were a luxury he seldom enjoyed; who knew when he¡¯d get another chance like this?


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 Chapter 1112

    ?Chapter 1112:


    ¡°No chance,¡± the bodyguard replied firmly, holding Alec¡¯s arm to stop him. ¡°The food here is meant for Miss Harper and her grandmother. My coworker already ordered curry rice for us guys, so stop trying to take food from them.¡±


    Alec was left fuming, feeling utterly powerless. Was he really being denied even a single bite? This bodyguard was too meddlesome.


    Brenna simply shrugged. ¡°You can have some of the curry rice when it arrives.¡± Soon, another bodyguard arrived carrying several servings of curry. The two bodyguards dug in with enthusiasm, each polishing off two bowls, while Alec quietly finished his one portion.


    Between bites, Alec kept stealing nces at Joann and Brenna¡¯s table, silently hoping his mother might save him some food from her meal.


    But Joann had been running on an empty stomach sincest night, and with Brenna¡¯s help, she finished all the food.


    Alec felt deeply disappointed and especially resented that bodyguard. After everyone had eaten, Brenna patiently exined the medication routine to her grandmother and Alec.


    Still dissatisfied with Brenna¡¯s guarded attitude toward him, Alec spoke up again after listening. ¡°Brenna, you are busy with work and can¡¯t look after Joann all the time, and you have a job too. Without it, I can¡¯t pay the bills. Honestly, don¡¯tugh at me, but my paycheck barely covers my family. If I could afford Joann¡¯s care, I wouldn¡¯t be here asking you for help. I¡¯m at my limit. Wouldn¡¯t it make sense for you to just give me the money to hire a caregiver for Joann?¡± He waited hopefully for her agreement. With how much money Brenna had, even if she gave him only a small portion of her wealth, the money would be enough for him to live the rest of his lifefortably.


    Brenna fixed him with a steady gaze. ¡°I¡¯ll handle the hiring and payments for Grandma¡¯s caregiver myself.¡±


    Alec¡¯s face tightened in frustration. ¡°Why won¡¯t you just give me the money directly? Are you afraid I¡¯ll just take your money and spend it on myself?¡±


    Seeing her son¡¯s attitude, Joann didn¡¯t want to say a word to him.


    ¡°I know you well. I¡¯ll make sure Grandma has everything she needs, and I¡¯m not handing the money over to you. Who knows how you¡¯d waste the money I give you?¡± Brenna said firmly.


    Alec desperately wished he could find the strength to send Brenna away. He wanted to say, ¡°Leave right now. I don¡¯t need any of your money!¡± But the words never came.


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    His pockets were empty, and he was in dire need of money.


    There was a time when he could walk all over her, but now, all he could do was turn to her for help.


    Swallowing his pride, he pleaded with the daughter he had once despised. ¡°Brenna, I promise, if you give me the money, I won¡¯t waste it. Every penny will go toward your grandmother.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not going to happen,¡± Brenna replied, her tone firm and unwavering.


    Joann watched silently from the side, feeling sympathy but choosing not to defend her son. She knew this was something he had brought upon himself.


    A sudden wave of anger pushed Alec over the edge. He shot Brenna a furious nce, stormed out of the room, and mmed the door behind him.


    Momentster, a bodyguard entered, followed by two women who appeared to be in their forties.


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 Chapter 1113

    ?Chapter 1113:


    Both women were of average height, their faces kind and gentle, exuding an air of warmth.


    ¡°Miss Harper, these are Gia and Alma,¡± the bodyguard introduced them. ¡°They have extensive experience in caring for the elderly. Each of them will take a 12-hour shift. Their daily rate is one hundred fifty dors, and I¡¯ve given each a credit card for daily expenses.¡±


    Once the introductions wereplete, Brenna turned to the caretakers. ¡°Take good care of my grandmother. Get her anything she needs. I will arrange for her meals to be delivered three times a day, and she will be in the hospital for about two weeks. If her treatment requires more funds, contact me immediately.¡±


    Brenna handed a business card to each of the women.


    A spark of respect lit up in the caretakers¡¯ eyes as they recognized Brenna¡¯s role as the CEO of apany, despite her youth.


    ¡°Rest assured, Miss Harper, your grandmother is in good hands with us,¡± Gia said, offering a reassuring smile.


    Just then, Brenna¡¯s phone buzzed. Ethan¡¯s name shed on the screen. She grabbed her bag and smiled at her grandmother. ¡°Grandma, I need to get back to work now. I¡¯ll visit you again tomorrow.¡±


    Tears welled up in Joann¡¯s eyes. Without Brenna¡¯s help today, she would have been sent home with nothing, no hope for treatment, and perhaps not even much time to live.


    She reached for Brenna¡¯s hand. ¡°Don¡¯t give your father a single cent. Remember how he treated you when you were little. That¡¯s all I¡¯ll say. Please don¡¯t feel pressured to visit me if you¡¯re busy. I already feel lucky just to have your help with my hospital bills.¡±


    With a soft voice, Brenna reassured her, ¡°I¡¯ll make sure you get the best care, Grandma. I¡¯ll visit you often, and I won¡¯t let anything happen to you.¡± Brenna offered her grandmother onest gentle squeeze before leaving the room. After noticing she¡¯d missed Ethan¡¯s call, she dialed him back, and he answered right away.


    ¡°Are you ready to leave?¡± Ethan said, his voice gentle.


    Brenna responded, ¡°Yeah, I¡¯ll meet you downstairs.¡±


    ???????????? ???? ???????? ?????????????? @ ?????????¦Í??????©q?????


    Stepping outside, Brenna spotted Alec loitering near the doorway, a cigarette burning between his fingers. He was mumbling into his phone but quickly ended the call as soon as he noticed her.


    He quicklyposed himself. ¡°I know I was out of line earlier,¡± he said, forcing a faint smile. ¡°Please don¡¯t hold it against me. I am done asking for money. I want you to know that I¡¯ll take care of her. She¡¯s my mother, after all.¡±


    Still, Brenna couldn¡¯t shake her doubts. Would he really keep this promise? She was curious about who had caused such a drastic change in his attitude. Who had gotten through to him?


    Careful not to let her true feelings show, she said, ¡°I have meetingster this afternoon. Take care of Joann and reach out if you need anything.¡±


    Before he could reply, she turned away and made her way to Ethan, who was just stepping out of the elevator.


    A quick look confirmed that Gracie was nowhere in sight. That alone lifted her spirits.


    Brenna asked Ethan, ¡°How¡¯s your grandmother doing today?¡±


    Ethan answered with a smile, ¡°She¡¯s doing great. She eats well and sleeps soundly; the doctor says her health is perfect.¡±


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 Chapter 1114

    ?Chapter 1114:


    As they reached his car, Ethan held the door open for Brenna.


    Neville soon started the car and drove away.


    Alec had taken a photo of Ethan holding the car door open for Brenna and sent it to Rosie.


    Not long after, Brenna arrived at the office, grabbed an important file, and followed Ethan toward the Mitchell Group¡¯s conference room.


    The Mitchell Group¡¯s new venture capital project posed a significant challenge. Ethan had struggled to find a capable project lead, but Brenna¡¯s quick thinking during the recent stock market turmoil had paid off. Thepany¡¯s shares had surged, wiping out much of their previous losses.


    Several senior executives held Brenna¡¯s team in high regard. The three vice presidents, in particr, were impressed with her leadership and her team¡¯s performance.


    For today¡¯s meeting, Ethan gathered all the senior and mid-level managers involved in the project, intent on entrusting it to Brenna and her team.


    Joe apanied Brenna to the conference room.


    The attendees were all venture capital veterans with decades of experience and sharp insights, eager to hear Brenna¡¯s unique perspectives on the project.


    Inside a sleek, modern conference room, thepany¡¯s top brass gathered alongside five men in their twenties. These young men made up the backbone of a project development team, and their faces lit up with clear admiration when Brenna arrived.


    Each of them sported a suit¡ªsimple but crisp. The moment Ethan stepped in, they scrambled to their feet, eager to greet him with handshakes. Once everyone had been introduced, Brenna and Joe settled into seats at the front, taking the first and second spots on the right.


    Right away, the project teamunched into a rundown of the drone project, outlining both the market potential and their technical strengths. After their opening, they wasted no time in unveiling a lineup of drones they had brought along.


    A few models boasted cutting-edge features, and their variety was impressive. Therger drones were simply too big for an indoor demo, so those would have to wait for the rooftop showcase.


    Within the country, there weren¡¯t any major yers manufacturing drones yet. This gap offered a golden opportunity, but the risks loomed just asrge. The team had pitched their concept to multiple firms, only to get turned down every time.


    ?????????????? ?????????? ????????: ?????????¦Í?????????????


    This meeting was Ethan¡¯s way of letting them state their case directly to the Mitchell Group¡¯s decision-makers.


    At the end of the pitch, hope shone in the eyes of the development team members as they looked at Brenna and the executives.


    Ethan shifted his attention to the three vice presidents. ¡°What are your thoughts?¡±


    Milton barely bothered to hide his disinterest. ¡°Honestly, the risk outweighs the promise. There is minimal domestic demand for drones.¡± The other two vice presidents echoed Milton¡¯s skepticism.


    Ethan¡¯s gaze moved to Brenna, his tone shifting as he addressed her. ¡°Miss Harper, what¡¯s your take?¡± His rapid sess over the past decade was closely tied to his adventurous spirit and keen insight. Given the formality of the moment, Ethan chose to address Brenna formally.


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 Chapter 1115

    ?Chapter 1115:


    Brenna found being addressed as ¡°Miss Harper¡± by Ethan somewhat strange. ¡°I see a lot of promise in this project. Drones are useful across so many industries¡ªphotography, film, farming, rescue operations, live shows, logistics, and even the¡­¡±


    ¡°Military. There¡¯s room for growth, not just here inside the country, but internationally as well.¡±


    When she finished speaking, Brenna signaled her secretary, who began handing out her detailed report to the rest of the leadership team.


    Ethan nodded. ¡°I agree with you.¡±


    Milton pushed back, saying, ¡°I can¡¯t support this project.¡±


    The other executives were split in their opinions. The discussionsted over an hour, with Brenna and Ethan presenting their reasoning, and the young developers passionately defending their project to gain support.


    Eventually, Ethan made the final decision and announced that the Mitchell Group wouldmit thirty billion to bring the drones into full-scale production. Since Milton and the other vice presidents had no real authority over the final decision, they had no choice but to go along with it.


    Joy erupted among the five young men.


    With the drone project settled, Brenna and Ethan moved on to the next proposals ¡ª Waldo¡¯s pitches for real estate and short video export businesses.


    The executives unanimously opposed both of Waldo¡¯s projects.


    However, while Ethan and Brenna agreed that the real estate project wasn¡¯t worth a second look, both of them felt the short video export project held some promise.


    Just then, a knock sounded on the conference room door.


    In the midst of their heated discussion over the short video export proposal, Gracie entered the room.


    She walked right up to Ethan and lowered her voice to ask, ¡°Wasn¡¯t the venture investment project supposed to be mine? Ethan, why wasn¡¯t I brought in for this meeting?¡±


    If someone hadn¡¯t tipped her off, she would have been leftpletely in the dark.


    When she entered, her gazended on Brenna, and annoyance flickered across her face. She shot Brenna a look that left no doubt about her displeasure.


    ?????????????????????????? @ ???????¦Í????????????


    Ethan met Gracie¡¯s eyes, his toneposed. ¡°You¡¯re new to the team. For a project of this scale, I need someone with a proven track record. We¡¯re talking about a thirty billion investment in drone tech, after all.¡±


    Gracie¡¯s frustration boiled over. She pointed at Brenna. ¡°And you think she¡¯s more reliable? She¡¯s younger than I am. I¡¯ve spent nearly ten years in the Wilson Group, overseeing one project after another. What aplishments does she have?¡±


    The irritation in Gracie¡¯s voice echoed around the table.


    The executives present were all unimpressed.


    Milton shot back with a sarcastic grin, ¡°Miss Wilson, your resume is impressive. You certainly handled major projects at the Wilson Group before. But didn¡¯t that samepany end up bankrupt? Should we count that as one of your achievements?¡±


    Gracie¡¯s jaw tightened. ¡°The Wilson Group copsed because of deliberate market sabotage. That had nothing to do with my ability. I have documentation to prove it.¡±


    Brenna watched quietly, choosing not to say anything.


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 Chapter 1116

    ?Chapter 1116:


    Milton let out a mockingugh. ¡°So none of it was on you? Everything that went wrong was somebody else¡¯s fault? That¡¯s a bit absurd, don¡¯t you think? Apany of that size doesn¡¯t just copse overnight. Are you saying neither you nor your father, as thepany¡¯s top leaders, has any me? I¡¯d really like to hear your exnation for the Wilson Group¡¯s downfall.¡±


    Gracie struggled toe up with an answer. ¡°Hector was behind everything. He set my father and me up. We had nothing to do with the copse. Why are you putting all the me on us?¡±


    Devastation threatened to overwhelm Gracie as she scanned the faces of the executives. She had worked tirelessly to build good rtions with them, seizing every opportunity to win their favor whenever she was at thepany. They had always been friendly, yet at this crucial moment, not a single one stood by her side.


    Anger surged through her, boiling over as she said, ¡°I¡¯m more than capable! You have all seen my resume. Why do you not believe in my ability?¡±


    Unmoved, the executives sat in silence, their faces nk, acting as if she hadn¡¯t spoken at all.


    Desperation pushed Gracie to turn to Ethan. ¡°Ethan, you know me better than anyone here. I can manage the drone project. If you won¡¯t vouch for me now, then who will?¡±


    All she wanted was a chance, a way to prove her worth and feel she mattered. Why was it so hard for her to get it?


    Tears slipped down her cheeks, impossible to stop. Lately, nothing good seemed to have happened to her.


    Ethan found himself unwilling to offer Gracie any words offort while surrounded by a room full of executives, least of all with Brenna watching. Besides, the two projects had already been examined and debated in detail.


    ¡°We¡¯re finished here,¡± he said. ¡°Milton, you¡¯re in charge of the drone project. Otis, you coordinate with Waldo. Meeting adjourned.¡±


    Papers rustled as Brenna packed up her things, passing her neatly prepared proposals to Milton and Otis before she went to discuss other finance projects with Ethary.


    Watching the handoff, Gracie snatched the documents, confirming her worst suspicions ¡ª they contained thorough analyses for both the drone and Waldo initiatives, with clear figures on the market, costs, and profit forecasts.


    As the executives trickled out and the younger staff followed, only three remained in the meeting room: Ethan, Brenna, and Gracie.


    ???????????????? ???? ????????: ??????????¦Í??????©q?????


    A heavy ache settled in Gracie¡¯s chest as she turned to Ethan. ¡°I really thought you were on my side. I figured it was upper management keeping me out of these projects, not that you¡¯d lost faith in me. Turns out, you see me just like they do, as a liability.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s expression never changed. ¡°Gracie,pany projects aren¡¯t about personal feelings. Every decision affects people¡¯s livelihoods. The drone project alone is a thirty-billion-dor investment. I have to be cautious about it.¡±


    Logic always came first with Ethan.


    If he let sentiment interfere, the Mitchell Group would never have reached its current sess.


    Admitting defeat, Gracie managed a nod. ¡°I guess I was hoping for too much from you.¡±


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 Chapter 1117

    ?Chapter 1117:


    Gracie red at Brenna, suspicion twisting her thoughts: Brenna must have poisoned Ethan against her, afraid she¡¯d be too sessful or overshadow her. ¡°You never wanted me to have this chance, did you?¡±


    Unbothered, Brenna¡¯s reply was smooth and even. ¡°What does any of this have to do with me? You know your own abilities. You know better than anyone whether you¡¯re suited for these projects or not.¡±


    Arms full of paperwork, she turned and left the meeting room.


    Joe was waiting for her at the door.


    Ethan turned to Gracie. ¡°The drone project requires someone reliable, with no room for error. As for Waldo, he¡¯s got no real intention of partnering with us; his interest lies in you. Surely, you¡¯ve noticed it. If you¡¯re set on the Waldo project, I¡¯ll let Otis hand you the files.¡±


    Gracie knew that revulsion welled up inside her at the thought of Waldo.


    ¡°Forget the Waldo project. I don¡¯t want it. I only want the drone project, or even those smaller financial projects would be fine.¡± Gracie¡¯s wishes were clear. In the days when she had worked at the Wilson Group, any project she fancied was handed over to her, her father eager to see her learn. As the cherished only daughter, she had been spoiled, surrounded by handpicked aides to back her up.


    Now, without anyone to pamper her, she felt frustrated.


    She stormed out, mming the door, feeling angry with Ethan for the first time. She wanted his support in her career, but it seemed impossible. Did Ethan think she was just a pretty face without substance?


    Unwilling to ept that, she copsed at her desk, sobbing in solitude.


    Shrugging, Brenna made her indifference clear. ¡°I didn¡¯t push her.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s lips curled into a faint smile. ¡°I won¡¯tfort her.¡±


    That response pleased Brenna. ¡°You know she¡¯s just trying to prove herself, right? Why not let her take on something big? She actually does have talent.¡±


    As they made their way to Ethan¡¯s office, he exined his reasoning. ¡°Gracie¡¯s so-called achievements at the Wilson Group? Her name was on the paperwork, but her father¡¯s team did all the heavy lifting. The public thinks she¡¯s a rising star, but I know better.¡±


    ¡°Before the Wilson Group went bankrupt, she would always tell me about her projects and ask me for my advice.¡±


    Brenna nodded. ¡°So, her aplishments were all a facade?¡±


    ???????????????????? ???????????? ???????? ¡ú g???????¦Í?????????????


    ¡°More or less. But she does have some talent. She can handle smaller projects, but the big ones cannot be entrusted to her,¡± Ethan said.


    Returning to the office, Ethan and Brenna found Joe and Henley already waiting. Joe had submitted the investment proposal, which he and Brenna had put together, to Henley for review.


    They spent the entire afternoon discussing the feasibility of the proposal. As Brenna listened to Ethan share numerous investment cases and stories, she gained a deep understanding of his sharp investment acumen. His exceptional business instincts exined his remarkable sess.


    As the workday ended, Ethan submitted the project evaluation report to Henley. He then left with Brenna. He nned to visit Kenny today, who would be discharged from the hospital tomorrow.


    Outside Kenny¡¯s hospital room, Elsa watched Rosanna leave, presumably to get dinner. Taking advantage of the opportunity, she quietly approached the door and pushed it open slightly.


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 Chapter 1118

    ?Chapter 1118:


    Seeing Kenny alone, she entered the room and closed the door behind her.


    The sight of her son¡¯s bandaged scalp and tired face squeezed Elsa¡¯s heart. ¡°Kenny, I¡¯m so sorry,¡± she whispered, guilt thick in her voice. ¡°It¡¯s all my fault that you are hurt.¡±


    Having gone several days without seeing Elsa, Kenny actually felt lighter, free from the pressure to end things with Rosanna. With his father, uncle, and Carsen all voicing support for his marriage, life had be easier for him. Now, seeing the only family member who disapproved of Rosanna, he felt his mood sour instantly.


    ¡°There¡¯s no point dwelling on the past,¡± he replied, his voice clipped. Suspicion simmered in his mind; he believed Elsa hade to persuade him to leave Rosanna.


    Even as irritation red, concern for Elsa lingered at the back of Kenny¡¯s mind. His father had talked about divorce more than once, and Kenny feared Elsa might fall apart if it really happened.


    But to his quiet relief, she looked well, neither thin nor worn down.


    Full of remorse, Elsa sat down at his bedside and said, ¡°Kenny, I didn¡¯t mean to hurt you. It just pains me to see you with Rosanna. She¡¯s clever, yes, but she maniptes people. Believe me, she¡¯s not the right one for you.¡±


    Hearing thisint for the hundredth time, Kenny felt his patience snap. Every conversation with his mother seemed to circle back to Rosanna, and he¡¯d had enough.


    ¡°Mom!¡± he interjected firmly. ¡°Stop saying that. Rosanna and I will not separate. She is pregnant with our child, and we n to spend the rest of our lives together. If you are here to persuade me to leave her, you can leave.¡±


    Reluctance crossed Elsa¡¯s face, but she backed down. ¡°Alright, I won¡¯t mention it again. Please don¡¯t get upset; you¡¯ve just recovered, and you need to stay calm. I really am here for something else.¡±


    Reluctantly, Kenny calmed down, though his frown remained. ¡°What is it?¡±


    A sigh escaped Elsa as she revealed her real worry. ¡°Your father is asking for a divorce. I want you to stay with me, Kenny. I was the one who took care of you when you were young. You, Ethan, and I can be together after the divorce, letting your father live on his own!¡±


    Exasperation colored Kenny¡¯s response. ¡°Mom, I¡¯m not a kid anymore. You¡¯re not fighting for custody here. That is ridiculous. I¡¯m already twenty-eight! If you want a divorce, that¡¯s your choice. Ethan and I can both live on our own.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not my intention. I understand you and Ethan are adults, but I want both of you to stand by me; cut your father offpletely. Let¡¯s show him what he¡¯s lost, make him regret everything, and force him to beg me for a second chance!¡±


    ?????????? ?????? ?????????? ????????: ????????¦Í?????????????


    Kenny let her finish speaking, then shook his head. ¡°That¡¯s not going to happen. You refuse to ept Rosanna, but Dad and everyone else in the family have weed her. If anything, I will spend more time with Dad. Since you can¡¯t stand Rosanna, I¡¯ll make sure not to bring her around you.¡±


    He had seen through it all. Elsa¡¯s hatred for Rosanna had led her to push her down the stairs. How could he let his wife near Elsa again?


    Frustration bubbled up in Elsa¡¯s voice. ¡°How can you say that? I¡¯m your mother. Shouldn¡¯t I matter more to you than her? I dislike her because she never shows me the respect I deserve! Gracie and Minna know how to talk to me with respect¡ª¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re wee to live with Gracie and Minna if you prefer theirpany,¡± Kenny replied coldly, his gaze fixed on the city outside the window. ¡°I think we¡¯re done here. Rosanna¡¯sing back soon, and I won¡¯t let you two encounter each other and start a fight again.¡±


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 Chapter 1119

    ?Chapter 1119:


    Shock and disbelief colored Elsa¡¯s words. ¡°I am doing this for your own good! I¡¯m only trying to protect you. I know exactly what kind of woman suits you. One day, you¡¯ll see I am right!¡±


    Elsa refused to leave, hoping to persuade Kenny.


    She continued, ¡°I wish you¡¯d think things through. Rosanna¡¯s family is just average, offering no advantages for your future. Can¡¯t you see you¡¯re making a mistake?¡±


    None of that mattered to Kenny. He said, ¡°I don¡¯t need their help. What I want is to support Rosanna and make sure she¡¯s treated the way she deserves.¡±


    ¡°Who gave you permission toe in here? Have youe back to hurt my son again?¡± Emmett demanded as he swung the door wide open, a takeout bag from a nearby eatery clutched firmly in his hand. He had made the trip to deliver a proper dinner to Kenny and Rosanna, knowing all too well how awful the hospital meals were and how they had only made Kenny feel worse over the past several days.


    He had heard voices outside and assumed it was a rtive, but upon entering, he was shocked to find Elsa in the room. His anger surged. He set the bag down sharply on the coffee table. ¡°What are you doing here? Isn¡¯t it enough that you¡¯ve already injured Kenny and his wife?¡±


    Elsa bristled, refusing to back down. Finger pointed squarely at Emmett, she replied, ¡°Why can¡¯t I visit my son? He¡¯s in the hospital, and I have every right to see him! Your family acts like you own him. I don¡¯t need your permission for anything. I came not only to check on him but also to take him home with me!¡±


    Fury red in Emmett¡¯s eyes. ¡°Over my dead body!¡± he yelled, striding over and grabbing her arm. He started to shove her out the door. ¡°Leave now, and don¡¯te back. Kenny¡¯s made his choice. If I catch you here again, I won¡¯t be so gentle.¡±


    Elsa stood her ground, wedging her foot in the doorway. She turned her pleading eyes on Kenny. ¡°I always looked out for you, thought only of your well-being. Are you really going to let your father throw me out like this?¡±


    No hesitation showed on Kenny¡¯s face. He couldn¡¯t bear more shes between Elsa and Rosanna, nor did he want to spend another decade in his mother¡¯s control. ¡°Please leave, Mom,¡± he said firmly. ¡°Dad and everyone else will make sure I¡¯m alright.¡±


    Stunned by his rejection, Elsa froze. With Ethan, she had forced her way into his ce, and he hadn¡¯t kicked her out. But Kenny¡¯s message was unmistakable: he wanted to cut all ties with her.


    Tears streamed down Elsa¡¯s cheeks. ¡°How could you be so ungrateful? I was the one who raised you!¡± Her heartbreak eclipsed even the pain she¡¯d felt when Ethan defied her.


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    A satisfied snort escaped Emmett. ¡°Hear that? Even your son wants you to leave. Go home. I¡¯ll send you the divorce papers soon.¡±


    Defiance sparked in Elsa¡¯s eyes. ¡°I¡¯m not divorcing you!¡± Over the past few days, Emmett had called repeatedly about going to file for divorce. Elsa had either ignored the calls or refused him outright.


    Until the question of who their sons would side with was settled, she would never agree to a divorce.


    Moreover, Emmett wanted her to leave the marriage with nothing. How could she ept that?


    Still unwilling to give up, she fixed Kenny with a tearful gaze. ¡°Is your hatred for me really that deep?¡±


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 Chapter 1120

    ?Chapter 1120:


    Gentleness crept into Kenny¡¯s voice, though his resolve didn¡¯t waver. ¡°Go home, Mom. Please.¡±


    No words left her lips, and Elsa finally turned away, but her mind was already working on how to try again tomorrow.


    She had only taken a few steps when she saw Rosanna approaching with some food. Their eyes met.


    Elsa quickly wiped her tears and turned aggressive, blocking Rosanna¡¯s path. ¡°Did you turn Kenny against me? Admit it!¡±


    Rosanna met her re with icy calm. ¡°Does it matter? If you can, go convince your son to leave me. Why shout at me? Do you think I will be intimidated by your shouting?¡±


    Hearing Elsa¡¯s loud voice, Emmett rushed out of the ward.


    Seeing the situation, he quickly put himself between the two women, standing firm as Rosanna¡¯s shield.


    ¡°Are you nning to shove Rosanna down the stairs again?¡± Emmett said to Elsa, his voice sharp with usation.


    With a dismissive snort, Elsa spun on her heel and walked away.


    Rosanna handed the bag to Emmett and said, ¡°Kenny asked for grilled food, so I picked some up.¡±


    Approval shed in Emmett¡¯s eyes. ¡°Next time you run into Elsa, don¡¯t hold back. If she tries anything, defend yourself. I¡¯ve got your back.¡±


    A quiet smile broke through Rosanna¡¯s defenses. ¡°Thanks.¡±


    Together, they made their way back to Kenny¡¯s room. Kenny¡¯s whole face lit up at the sight of the food. ¡°You got exactly what I¡¯ve been craving!¡±


    Emmett said, ¡°Your mother hurt you so much and still wants to control you. How could we let her do that? She¡¯s not just controlling; she wants everyone to obey her and hates anyone who disagrees with her. All she wants is total obedience and control. That¡¯s not normal; she has serious issues!¡±


    Rosanna nodded in full agreement, she and Kenny having talked about the same thing before.


    Kenny was well aware of Elsa¡¯s ws. He couldn¡¯t stand her anymore.


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    A worried look crossed his face as he turned to Emmett. ¡°Dad, let¡¯s leave the hospital as soon as we can. I know Elsa wille again, and she might try to force me to live with her. I do not want Rosanna to face that.¡±


    Emmett pped his shoulder in reassurance. ¡°First thing tomorrow, we¡¯ll get you started on your IV drip. Once it¡¯s done, we¡¯re out of here.¡±


    Downstairs, Elsa was on the phone with Ethan. ¡°Kenny doesn¡¯t even want to live with me. All these years of care I showed him clearly meant nothing to him. Tomorrow, when he gets discharged, you muste and help me. I have to make him live with me. Why should someone else get the son I raised?¡±


    Ethan had already pulled into the hospital parking lot, sitting in his car and watching Elsa at the entrance. He had no desire to step out or get caught up in her drama.


    ¡°Mom, I¡¯m here to look after you, aren¡¯t I? If Kenny wants to stay with Dad, let him. Why push it?¡± Ethan stayed put in his car.


    Elsa couldn¡¯t bear the thought of Kenny rejecting her. It felt like her entire world was crumbling.


    ¡°No way! Do you have any idea how much I¡¯ve invested in him? I¡¯m not giving up!¡± she yelled, her voice thick with exasperation.


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 Chapter 1121

    ?Chapter 1121:


    Knowing Elsa¡¯s fiery temper, Ethan ended the call and sat silently in his car. Elsa, seething, muttered to herself, ¡°Everyone¡¯s turning against me! It¡¯s so infuriating!¡±


    Wiping her tears, she stormed off to find her car.


    Once Elsa drove off, Ethan stepped out of his car and made his way to Kenny¡¯s hospital room.


    On the small table by Kenny¡¯s bed were several skewers of grilled meat, the aroma filling the air.


    Kenny was eating slowly, having polished off a few skewers already.


    ¡°Ethan, didn¡¯t you have a big project review this afternoon? How did you find time toe see me?¡± Kenny¡¯s face lit up as he offered a skewer to Ethan.


    ¡°Here, try one. It¡¯s delicious.¡±


    Ethan took it and started eating. ¡°My work¡¯s done. I came straight after finishing it. The three vice presidents are handling the follow-up, so I¡¯m free now. How are you holding up, Kenny?¡±


    Kenny grinned. ¡°No headaches, no dizziness, no nausea, and I¡¯m eating fine. I think I¡¯m good to recover at home.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a relief.¡±


    After a brief conversation, Emmett spoke up. ¡°Elsa¡¯s staying with you, right? Has she been stirring up trouble for you, Ethan?¡±


    Ethan shot a nce at Emmett, wary of getting dragged into their divorce mess. ¡°She keeps going on about how Brenna and I aren¡¯t right for each other, but I tune her out. You know I¡¯ve never paid her much mind.¡±


    Emmett nodded. ¡°If she gets to be too much, just kick her out. I gave her two houses; she¡¯s got ces to go. She¡¯s obsessed with meddling in your lives; it¡¯s ridiculous. She has controlled me for years, and now, she¡¯s trying to control both of you. You don¡¯t owe¡­¡±


    ¡°Her just because she¡¯s your mom. If you cut all ties with her, she only has herself to me.¡±


    Ethan stayed quiet. Over the years, he had witnessed Emmett and Elsa¡¯s rtionship, with minor arguments every few days and major ones regrly. Usually, Emmett wouldpromise. This time, Emmett was determined to divorce Elsa, likely because he had reached his limit.


    Emmett continued, ¡°She should have picked up a hobby after retirement¡ªmaybe a reading group or gardening¡ªbut no, she¡¯s always poking into our lives. Is something wrong with her? If you¡¯re okay with her staying and pestering you, I won¡¯t step in, but I¡¯m done with her.¡±


    ???????? ?????? ?????????????? ????????: g???????¦Í????????????


    Ethan didn¡¯t respond, and Kenny focused on his food, now eating with more enthusiasm.


    Seeing no reply from his sons, Emmett pressed Ethan. ¡°Did you hear me? Why are you not saying anything?¡±


    Ethan said, ¡°If you want a divorce, go for it. Mom is tough to deal with. I¡¯m fed up with her, too.¡±


    Kenny nodded in agreement.


    Emmett felt validated. ¡°Exactly! I¡¯ve been saying your mom¡¯s got serious issues. All these years, when have I not been the one to apologize first? I wasn¡¯t even wrong!¡±


    Ethan nodded. ¡°Yeah, Dad, you¡¯ve put up with a lot. You¡¯re still young; you can find someone kind and gentle. With your status, marrying someone younger wouldn¡¯t be a problem.¡±


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 Chapter 1122

    ?Chapter 1122:


    ¡°Oh, just shut up.¡± Emmett swatted at him yfully.


    Kennyughed.


    Seeing Kenny in good spirits, Ethan felt reassured. Still, he checked with the doctor about Kenny¡¯s condition. The doctor confirmed everything was fine, easing his mind.


    After leaving the doctor¡¯s office, Ethan headed out, as he had a meeting with Waldo in the evening.


    Gracie stepped out of the bathroom after her shower and froze when she saw a hamster sauntering across the living room like it owned the ce, pausing to stare at her mid-stride.


    Terrified of rodents, Gracie let out a piercing scream.


    For days, she had noticed hamsters darting around her room, and at night, she could hear them chewing on her furniture. But she hadn¡¯t found the right moment to tell Ethan about it. The timing just never seemed right.


    That night, Gracie climbed into bed, nerves on edge, convinced that there was also a hamster in her bedroom.


    She couldn¡¯t sleep, the faint squeaking sound keeping her on edge.


    When she finally drifted off, she felt something furry brush against her hand. As she instinctively closed her fingers around it, the thing moved.


    Realizing what it was, she jolted awake.


    ¡°Ah!¡± she shrieked, flinging the hamster across the room.


    Trembling and in tears, she grabbed her phone and called Ethan.


    Ethan returned home past midnight with flushed cheeks from drinking too much alcohol, the smell lingering around him.


    Neville had driven him back and helped him up to his bedroom on the second floor.


    Ethan was in high spirits. ¡°That old fox Waldo is so cunning. He was discussing business with both the Harper family and the Wagner family, but in the end, he chose us.¡±


    After easing Ethan onto the sofa in the room, Neville replied, ¡°Yeah. We¡¯re the strongest option. Waldo was only holding out for the best deal.¡±


    A soft voice broke the moment as Elsa appeared in her pajamas, a look of disapproval crossing her face as she took in her son¡¯s state. ¡°Neville, thank you for bringing Ethan home. I¡¯ll handle things from here. You should go back and rest.¡±


    ?????????????? ????????????: ?????????????????????????


    Without hesitation, Neville nodded. ¡°Mrs. Mitchell, I¡¯ll be on my way.¡± Then, he left.


    Rubbing his aching head, Ethan tried to reassure Elsa, saying, ¡°Mom, I¡¯m alright. Just need a shower and some sleep. Don¡¯t worry about me.¡±


    Worry flickered in Elsa¡¯s eyes as she looked at him. ¡°You don¡¯t have to push yourself so hard. You do notck money now. Drinking like this every night isn¡¯t worth it; you¡¯re going to ruin your health.¡±


    Not wanting to hear Elsa nagging, Ethan took off his jacket, put his phone on the sofa, and went to take a shower.


    Left alone, Elsa could only sigh, resignation softening her features.


    As she turned to leave, Ethan¡¯s phone started ringing.


    ¡°Who would call at this hour?¡± She nced at the screen and saw it was Gracie. ¡°Gracie? What could she want at this hour?¡± Worried it might be urgent, she answered the call.


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 Chapter 1123

    ?Chapter 1123:


    Gracie paced by her window, nerves raw and bracing for rejection. Lately, her own behavior hadn¡¯t been ster; she could admit that she¡¯d pestered Ethan too often with demands he had every right to ignore. Even she knew that her present request¡ªcrashing at his ce for a few nights¡ªpushed the boundaries. Chances were high that Ethan was already asleep. If she asked Ethan toe pick her up, he would definitely refuse her.


    She steeled herself for every oue.


    She believed he probably wouldn¡¯t answer at all.


    So, when the call finally connected, a rush of hope and relief crashed over her. ¡°Ethan!¡± Gracie eximed.


    Elsa could not understand why Gracie would call sote and worried that something might have happened. ¡°Miss Wilson, is everything alright?¡±


    When Gracie heard Elsa¡¯s voice, her heart sank. It was not Ethan who answered her call.


    The disappointment was crushing.


    The urge to hang up swept over her.


    Words caught in her throat. ¡°I¡­ um, I¡­¡± She hesitated to tell Elsa her troubles.


    But then, she remembered how gentle Elsa had always been to her¡ªso much warmer than Ethan, if she was being honest. Elsa had always made her feel wee, and she often thought Elsa might help her get closer to Ethan.


    With that thought, Gracie changed her approach, her voice bing emotional. ¡°There are mice in my house! One crawled right onto my hand and bit me. I¡¯m so scared; they¡¯re everywhere. Please help me¡­¡±


    Elsa¡¯s worry deepened as she heard Gracie¡¯s trembling voice. ¡°Now, now, don¡¯t cry. Are there really mice in your house?¡±


    Gracie¡¯s cries grew louder. ¡°Every night, those mice keep chewing on my nkets and furniture. They squeak and scurry everywhere. I can¡¯t stay here any longer. Elsa, please, could I stay at your ce for a while? I¡¯m so afraid¡­¡±


    ¡°Stay at my ce?¡± Hearing the request, Elsa was lost in thought. The idea seemed perfect. Brenna, with her sharp tongue and icy manners, was all wrong for Ethan. She didn¡¯t like Brenna at all.


    She believed Gracie was better suited for her son.


    ???????????????? ?????????????? ????????: ?????????¦Í????????©q?????


    ¡°Of course, you can stay at my ce. I¡¯ll go pick you up myself. Send me your address,¡± said Elsa, reaching for her car keys. ¡°Ethan has had too much to drink and is in the shower, so he won¡¯t be able to get¡­¡±


    A small smile yed on Elsa¡¯s lips. She knew Ethan would object if he found out about this, but once Gracie was already here, he wouldn¡¯t have the heart to kick her out.


    She ended the call, quickly changed her clothes, and slipped out the door.


    When Ethan finished his shower, he didn¡¯t notice anything out of ce. He just grabbed his phone and went to bed.


    Within an hour, Elsa returned home, with Gracie trailing nervously behind.


    Uncertainty lingered in Gracie¡¯s voice. ¡°Elsa, will Ethan drive me away?¡±


    Elsa led her upstairs, her tone soothing as she spoke. ¡°Don¡¯t worry; he won¡¯t. Ethan listens to me most of the time. He¡¯s already asleep, so we won¡¯t bother him. Let¡¯s get you settled in, and we¡¯ll talk about this in the morning.¡±


    Relief flooded Gracie, who was content just to be under Ethan¡¯s roof; she believed he wouldn¡¯t ask her to leave tomorrow morning.


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 Chapter 1124

    ?Chapter 1124:


    ¡°Thank you, Elsa. I can¡¯t say it enough. I have no friends or family here, and I am sorry to trouble you sote,¡± Gracie said as she followed Elsa upstairs, her eyes drifting to the closed bedroom doors, wondering which one was Ethan¡¯s room.


    With a knowing smile, Elsa pointed out thergest door. ¡°That¡¯s Ethan¡¯s room. You¡¯ll stay in the room next to his.¡±


    A ripple of excitement carried Gracie through the doorway of Ethan¡¯s home. Stepping inside the room prepared for her, she took in the elegant furnishings and turned to Elsa with a grateful smile. ¡°I really appreciate this, Elsa.¡±


    Waving off her thanks, Elsa offered a gentle reminder. ¡°You should get some rest tonight. There¡¯s work waiting for you in the morning, and I won¡¯t disturb you further.¡±


    With a pleased expression, Elsa left the room, her heart content that things were going as she had hoped.


    Eager to settle in, Gracie gave the room a careful once-over before climbing into bed. But try as she might, her mind refused to quiet down.


    Long after midnight, shey wide awake, unable to shake the rush of anticipation. The hours slipped by until dawn was close. Restless, she wandered out of the room and paused outside Ethan¡¯s door, curiosity pulling her closer. Pressing her ear to the wood, she listened for any sound. Only silence greeted her.


    Her imagination wandered to Ethan sleeping soundly, his features rxed. A bold, wild idea danced through her mind¡ªwhat if she crept into his bed? How would he react if he found her sleeping beside him in the morning?


    She believed that the thought was both bold and absurd. Still, she found her hand on the doorknob, trying to open the door.


    However, the door wouldn¡¯t budge. It was locked from the inside.


    A quiet sigh slipped out as she gave up and walked away.


    Back in her own room, she felt that the strange little adventure earlier had left her even more unable to sleep.


    She propped herself up and scrolled through her phone.


    By six in the morning, daylight had broken, and Gracie got up and went to the dining room downstairs.


    Surprisingly, the kitchen wasn¡¯t empty. Elsa was already there, bustling around. ¡°Elsa, you¡¯re up so early!¡± Gracie said.


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    Elsa nced over her shoulder and couldn¡¯t help but notice how put-together Gracie looked; she was wearing wless makeup and a carefully chosen outfit, all for Ethan¡¯s benefit.


    The sight made Elsa¡¯s heart swell with approval. ¡°Older people need less sleep,¡± she exined, her tone warm. ¡°Since I woke up early, I thought I¡¯d make breakfast for you and Ethan.¡±


    Eager to make a good impression, Gracie said, ¡°You¡¯re always so thoughtful, Elsa. Let me help you with breakfast.¡±


    Not missing Gracie¡¯s manicured nails, Elsa smiled. ¡°It¡¯s alright. I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve never spent much time in the kitchen before. Go rx. I can handle this.¡±


    A spark of determination lit Gracie¡¯s face. ¡°I can¡¯t just sit here after you let me stay the night. Please let me help with something.¡± She moved over to the sink and started washing vegetables.


    Elsa did not stop her. ¡°If you want to help, go ahead.¡±


    Gracie didn¡¯t know how to cook. Before marriage, she had maids and cooks at home, and when married to Hector, she never had to do any cooking. Now, all she could do was wash vegetables.


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 Chapter 1125

    ?Chapter 1125:


    Once the vegetables were clean, she took a spot near the counter and watched as Elsa moved effortlessly from one task to another, preparing breakfast. Idle moments turned into light conversation between the two, their voices blending with the quiet hum of the kitchen.


    Not long after seven, footsteps echoed on the stairs. Ethan soon appeared, drawn in by the chatter. Curiosity flickered across his face.


    His eyes widened when he caught sight of Gracie. ¡°What are you doing here, Gracie?¡±


    Seeing Ethan¡¯s displeased expression, Gracie quickly exined, ¡°There were mice in my house, and I was too scared to stay there. I called you, but Elsa answered the phone and brought me here.¡±


    A sigh escaped Ethan as he turned to his mother. ¡°Mom, you can¡¯t just invite people into my house without telling me,¡± he said, frustration seeping into his voice.


    Elsa met his look head-on, standing her ground. ¡°Since when do I need your permission for that? This is my house, too. I believe I have every right to decide who stays here.¡±


    Ethan believed he couldn¡¯t reason with Elsa. After thinking for a moment, he turned to leave the house.


    Before Ethan could slip away, Elsa stopped him. She knew where he was headed¡ªGiselle had mentioned he often preferred breakfast at the Harper family¡¯s ce.


    ¡°nning to go to the Harper family¡¯s for breakfast again?¡± Elsa asked directly, blocking Ethan¡¯s path.


    Ethan shot her a look, annoyed by her uracy. Avoiding Gracie was his goal, and breakfast at Brenna¡¯s house was his escape n. ¡°Even if I am, it¡¯s not your concern. Mom, it¡¯s not right for Gracie to stay at my ce.¡±


    Elsa waved his protest away. ¡°That¡¯s not for you to decide. I want Gracie here, so she stays. Now,e eat. Breakfast is almost done, and Gracie helped me with it this morning. You didn¡¯t even acknowledge her effort; that¡¯s rude.¡±


    Refusing to let Ethan walk away, Elsa took him by the arm and pulled him to sit down. ¡°You¡¯re not going anywhere. Your brother¡¯s getting discharged from the hospital today, and you¡¯ll drive me there to pick him upter.¡±


    Slumping into the seat, Ethan struggled to hide his irritation. Living with Elsa was a nightmare. He could not understand how his father had tolerated her for so many years.


    ???????????????? ???????????????? @ g??????¦Í??????©q?????


    A hint of disappointment crossed Gracie¡¯s face when Ethan first tried to leave, but his return brightened her mood. She carried over a bowl of oatmeal, her hands shaky with nervousness.


    Setting the bowl in front of him, she offered a smile. ¡°I made this myself, Ethan. It¡¯s my first attempt, so I hope it¡¯s at least edible.¡±


    She looked at Ethan expectantly, hoping he would praise her efforts.


    A wave of satisfaction swept over Elsa as she watched Gracie. Every gesture from Gracie seemed to mirror exactly what she wanted. Gracie was the kind of daughter-inw she had always pictured for her son.


    If only Brenna or Rosanna could show the same willingness to please her, Elsa thought, she would have epted them.


    While Ethan and Gracie shared a long history dating back to their university years abroad, their rtionship had always stayed strictly professional.


    Their conversations had rarely wandered into personal territory, leaving Ethan clueless about most aspects of Gracie¡¯s private life. Whether she could even cook was a mystery to him.


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 Chapter 1126

    ?Chapter 1126:


    But he believed that since she had been raised by the powerful Wilson family, she hardly seemed the type to make breakfast.


    Even if she had just learned how to cook, it would be unlikely for her to make such excellent oatmeal.


    Still, one spoonful of the oatmeal told him the truth¡ªits vor matched the one he¡¯d grown up with, unmistakably his mother¡¯s handiwork.


    ¡°This is great,¡± said Ethan, deciding to y along rather than call Gracie out. ¡°Go ahead and have a seat.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s heart swelled with happiness. She was convinced that Ethan had finally recognized Gracie as a suitable partner for him. Turning to Gracie, she said, ¡°Wait here for a moment; I¡¯ll bring you some food.¡±


    Gracie¡¯s face glowed with genuine delight. ¡°Thank you, Elsa. That¡¯s very kind of you.¡±


    A radiant smile lingered on Elsa¡¯s face. ¡°You¡¯re wee, dear. Feel free to treat this ce as your own.¡±


    Choosing to ignore his mother¡¯s matchmaking, Ethan turned to Gracie. ¡°So, what brings you here today?¡±


    He knew the answer but still wanted to hear it from her.


    Seeing an opportunity, Gracie slipped into a vulnerable role, her eyes wide with fear as she recounted the story.


    ¡°For the past several days, mice have taken over my house. Every night, I hear them scratching, especially when everything is quiet and I¡¯m trying to sleep. I didn¡¯t want to bother you, since you¡¯ve helped me enough already, so I kept hoping they¡¯d just go away on their own. Butst night was the worst¡ªI woke up to a mouse actually biting¡­¡±


    Me. ¡°That was the final straw. I didn¡¯t want to be a burden to you, but I didn¡¯t have anyone else I could turn to. I could only stay at your ce. I hope you understand.¡±


    Without another word, Ethan ced his fork down and reached for his phone.


    Rex picked up almost instantly. ¡°Yes, Mr. Mitchell? What do you need?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s a rodent problem at Gracie¡¯s ce,¡± said Ethan, his voice brisk andmanding. ¡°Bring two people, clear out the mice, and fix any furniture they¡¯ve ruined. You¡¯ve got until tonight. I¡¯ll send you her address.¡± His instructions left no room for confusion.


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    Gracie sat in stunned silence. She had spent daysing up with this n, never imagining Ethan would handle the situation with such ease. If the mice were caught, what excuse would she have to stay here?


    She bit her lip, unsure what to say. After some thought, she feigned gratitude. ¡°Thanks for everything, truly. I don¡¯t even know how to repay you.¡±


    She had pictured Ethaning to her rescue in person, but his quick solution had taken the n in a direction she hadn¡¯t expected.


    Disappointment lingered, yet her mind started working on a new excuse to remain in his home.


    Elsa brought more food from the kitchen and sat down to join them.


    Turning her attention to her son, Elsa made her intentions clear. ¡°Ethan, let Gracie stay here for a while. I saw how scared she wasst night. That big house is far too much for her to manage by herself. If she stays here, I can look after her. I have plenty of time, and she can keep mepany.¡±


    It only took a moment for Gracie to catch on. ¡°That¡¯s true. Every night, I either wake to the sound of mice or toplete silence, which is frightening. I really can¡¯t handle being there alone. Ethan, could you let me stay here for a while? Ever since my father passed away, I haven¡¯t had anyone to turn to. Staying by myself just makes me think of my father, and it¡¯s too much to bear.¡±


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 Chapter 1127

    ?Chapter 1127:


    Tears spilled down her cheeks as she broke into quiet sobs, her sorrow appearing genuine.


    No reaction came from Ethan. He kept his eyes on his food, saying nothing that hinted at his opinion.


    His gaze briefly shifted to Elsa, who wasted no time in speaking for both of them. ¡°My son¡¯s house is my house. I am fine with it. Gracie, feel free to stay.¡±


    Thoughts of escaping the situation crossed Ethan¡¯s mind. With so many properties at his disposal, he could just stay at a different house.


    He texted Neville, asking him toe pick him up.


    Soon, Neville showed up, moved the car out of the garage, and quietly waited for Ethan.


    After the meal, Elsa quickly cleared the table, grabbed her bag, and led Gracie to Ethan¡¯s car with her.


    Neville imed the driver¡¯s seat, Ethan sat up front, and Elsa and Gracie settled into the back.


    With a steady voice, Elsa gave instructions to Neville, saying, ¡°Head down this road, then take the first right¡­¡±


    Neville cast a sidelong nce at Ethan, picking up on his expressionless face. From experience, he could tell Ethan was not happy.


    To reach the entrance, the most direct path was to turn left, continue for two hundred meters, then make a right toward the gate.


    Even so, Elsa insisted on turning right instead, deliberately opting for the longer route. Neville knew she had a hidden agenda.


    With a polite grin, he turned to Elsa and said, ¡°Mrs. Mitchell, the left way is actually quicker.¡±


    Elsa barely spared Neville a nce, treating him as nothing more than a servant. ¡°Just do as I tell you,¡± she ordered, her voice sharp. Neville nced again at Ethan, but the man offered no response.


    Elsa caught him looking and snapped, ¡°Why do you keep looking at him? He listens to me as well. We are going to the hospital first, not thepany.¡±


    Neville already knew the hospital was their first stop. Still, he kept quiet and turned right as Elsa had instructed.


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    Elsa kept giving directions, steering Neville through a winding route of backstreets and scenes. Soon, he caught on¡ªshe was taking them past the Harper family¡¯s home on purpose.


    Ethan had already figured out Elsa¡¯s n. Whenever he wanted to see Brenna for lunch, he would take the same route.


    He had already sent Brenna a message, telling her to wait with her car by the entrance.


    Before they even reached the Harper residence, Elsa spotted Brenna waiting there. She guessed Brenna was hoping to catch a ride. She wondered how Brenna would react after spotting another woman inside her boyfriend¡¯s car.


    Surely, Brenna would be jealous, maybe evensh out.


    Elsa could barely contain her excitement, bracing herself for drama.


    With a sense of superiority, she ordered Neville, ¡°Stop the car here.¡±


    As soon as the car came to a halt, Elsa lowered the window and offered Brenna a polite but insincerepliment. ¡°You look especially lovely this morning.¡±


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 Chapter 1128

    ?Chapter 1128:


    She gave Gracie a quick nudge. Gracie slipped out of the car and greeted Brenna with a friendly smile, saying, ¡°Good morning, Miss Harper. Do you want a ride to work?¡±


    Brenna had received Ethan¡¯s message. He had only told her to wait for him with her car. He had not said anything about Gracie being inside his car.


    Gracie¡¯s presence caught her off guard. Instead of replying, she nced at Gracie and asked, ¡°Why were you in Ethan¡¯s car?¡±


    Ethan quietly stepped out, joining Brenna at her side. He kept silent, avoiding any exnation. He understood that trying to justify things would only make Elsa meddle more. Elsa had made up her mind to stir trouble for Brenna.


    Confusion flickered across Gracie¡¯s face. She wondered why Ethan had stepped out of the car.


    Still, she doubted he would step in and rify things to Brenna, so she continued, saying to Brenna, ¡°There were mice at my cest night, so I stayed over at Ethan¡¯s. Miss Harper, you know I¡¯m just crashing there¡ªhope that¡¯s all right with you?¡±


    Brenna looked at Ethan for confirmation. He nodded.


    ¡°No problem at all. I¡¯m just relieved you weren¡¯t too frightened. If it were my room, I would have been scared too. I get it,¡± Brenna said.


    Gracie was somewhat disappointed that Brenna did not make a scene or me Ethan for taking her in. Now, she had no way to portray herself as a victim or make others see Brenna as unreasonable and domineering.


    Her n had not worked, so she quickly tried a different approach. ¡°You¡¯re waiting for a ride, aren¡¯t you? I remember you usually ride with Ethan to work. Unfortunately, there¡¯s no space left in his car today, Miss Harper. Looks like you¡¯ll have to drive yourself.¡±


    Gracie felt certain Brenna would make a scene and demand that she leave the car now.


    But Brenna kept her cool and showed no hint of jealousy. ¡°That¡¯s all right. Ethan and I can just take my car.¡±


    Neither Elsa nor Gracie had seen thating. The simple solution left them speechless.


    ¡°Ethan, you need to take me to the hospital. You cannot go to work in Brenna¡¯s car,¡± Elsa said, her tone sharpening with urgency.


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    Ethan was pleased that he and Brenna were thinking of the same thing.


    ¡°I already went there yesterday. I¡¯ve told Dad and Kenny that today I have more pressing matters, so I won¡¯t be going with you. You can go there without me.¡± His voice remained steady, betraying no emotion.


    Elsa¡¯s anger red. ¡°Are you just going to ignore the way your father treated me yesterday? He¡¯s asking for a divorce! Aren¡¯t you going to defend me? And what about¡­¡±


    ¡°Kenny? He¡¯s got nowhere to go. You¡¯re supposed to help him. Kenny can¡¯t stay with your father, and there¡¯s no one else to look after him.¡±


    ¡°Mom, that¡¯s enough. Dad can ept my brother¡¯s wife and her child. Please let Kenny be. Stop pressuring him to stay with you. As for your divorce from Dad, I¡¯m not getting involved.¡±


    With a nce, he signaled Neville. Neville caught on and gently said to Gracie, ¡°Miss Wilson, please get in the car. Let¡¯s leave.¡±


    ¡°Ethan, are you really not going to help your mother? She has no one else now. If you refuse to help her, she¡¯ll be left on her own,¡± Gracie simply could not let Ethan leave with Brenna, desperate to prevent Brenna from getting what she wanted.


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 Chapter 1129

    ?Chapter 1129:


    Ethan¡¯s mouth curled into a small grin. He nced at Gracie and said, ¡°My mother is not pitiful at all.¡±


    Seeing Gracie¡¯s reluctance to get in the car, Neville got out and pulled her inside.


    Once everyone was in, Neville started the car and pulled away from the curb.


    Elsa let out an exasperated sigh. ¡°Ethan has never listened to me since he was little. Nothing I say gets through to him. Why do I have such a difficult life? I raised two sons, but neither shows me any respect.¡±


    A wave of frustration washed over Gracie. She had wanted Elsa¡¯s help to sway Ethan, hoping to slowly close the gap between them and eventually win him over.


    However, she had not expected such a tense rtionship between Elsa and Ethan, or that Ethan would be so defiant.


    Her entire n was in shambles. She¡¯d meant to use this chance to humiliate Brenna.


    But as she looked back, Brenna stood there with a smile, even waving goodbye to her.


    Anger bubbled up inside Gracie. All her scheming had amounted to nothing, and now, her rival looked triumphant.


    As the car rolled out of the neighborhood, Gracie finally spoke up. ¡°Elsa, has Ethan always been so disobedient to you?¡±


    Despite knowing Ethan for years, she realized how little she knew about his family.


    She now realized that winning Ethan over might be too challenging.


    ¡°He has always been rebellious, especially during his school days. Once he started his business, we fought less, but he just shut me outpletely. I could talk all day, and he wouldn¡¯t even say a word back. Getting him to listen to me is almost impossible.¡± Elsa¡¯s answer came with a heavy sigh.


    Elsa squeezed Gracie¡¯s hand and continued, ¡°Gracie, you have to help me here. I can¡¯t get through to my son at all anymore. Maybe he just needs the right woman to set him straight. I think you are perfect for him¡ªsmart, beautiful, and aplished.¡±


    Gracie only felt more troubled after hearing that. Elsa wanted to control Ethan through her, while she wanted to win Ethan through Elsa. She realized she had chosen the wrong ally.


    Letting out a sigh, she replied, ¡°Elsa, you can see for yourself¡ªhe doesn¡¯t listen to a word I say, either.¡±


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    ¡°Don¡¯t worry; we¡¯ll take one step at a time. One day, he¡¯ll see your good qualities and realize you¡¯re far better for him than Brenna.¡±


    At the hospital, Elsa¡¯s first stop was her mother¡¯s room.


    Inside, Bess was coaxing the elderly woman to finish her food. ¡°Grandma, you need your eggs and milk¡ªthey¡¯re the best for your recovery. You¡¯ll get better much faster if you eat them.¡±


    Belen made a face and grumbled, ¡°What¡¯s so great about eggs? I don¡¯t want them. Why not make me some custard? I¡¯d eat that.¡±


    Bess gave a small frown. ¡°Maybe next time, Grandma. They can¡¯t make custard here. Just eat the eggs, please?¡±


    Though unhappy, Belen finally agreed and reluctantly ate the eggs.


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 Chapter 1130

    ?Chapter 1130:


    After seeing that her mother was alright, Elsa gave a brief greeting and said to Bess, ¡°I¡¯m heading upstairs to see Kenny. He¡¯s being discharged today.¡±


    Bess replied, ¡°Go ahead. I¡¯ll take care of Belen here.¡±


    She then cast a quick, dismissive nce at Gracie, barely acknowledging her presence.


    Gracie offered a polite smile and said, ¡°Thank you for taking such good care of her.¡±


    Bess shot back, ¡°Looking after my own grandmother is my responsibility. You make it sound like you belong to the family and I don¡¯t.¡±


    Gracie was rendered speechless. She could see that Bess favored Brenna and clearly didn¡¯t want her around.


    Elsa hadn¡¯t left yet and picked up on the tension. She scolded Bess, ¡°Watch your attitude, Bess!¡±


    Turning to Gracie, Elsa tried to smooth things over. ¡°Don¡¯t pay attention to her. She just speaks before she thinks, but she isn¡¯t trying to be mean.¡± Bess rolled her eyes and fell silent.


    Elsa and Gracie then went to Kenny¡¯s hospital room together.


    Once the two of them had left, Bess vented to her grandmother, saying, ¡°Why does Elsa keep dragging that outsider around? Gracie doesn¡¯t belong to our family, yet she always shows up in front of us. Doesn¡¯t she realize nobody in our family wants to see her?¡±


    Belen answered with a calm smile, ¡°She¡¯s hoping to marry Ethan, but I don¡¯t think Ethan has any feelings for her.¡±


    ¡°Brenna is much better than her. She¡¯s so gentle and beautiful, and her brother is famous! Grandma, do you know Dalton?¡± Bess¡¯ expression lit up as she mentioned Dalton.


    Belen chuckled. ¡°I¡¯ve never heard of him. Do you have a crush on him?¡±


    A dreamy smile spread across Bess¡¯ face. ¡°Yeah. If only I could marry Dalton¡­¡±


    Belen took her words seriously. ¡°Bring him over someday so I can see if he¡¯s really suitable for you.¡±


    A bright smile lit up Bess¡¯ face. ¡°He¡¯s Brenna¡¯s older brother, and honestly, I think he¡¯s the most handsome man alive. Grandma, you¡¯ll see¡ªonce you meet him, you¡¯ll be impressed by him.¡±


    A sigh escaped her lips as she continued, ¡°But why hasn¡¯t Brennae bytely? I really want her to take me to see Dalton. When do you think she¡¯ll visit again?¡±


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    Elsa guided Gracie toward the entrance of Kenny¡¯s hospital room. The corridor was eerily silent, save for the soft hum of a janitor¡¯s mop gliding across the floor.


    Elsa pressed her ear against the door, straining to catch any hint of activity within, but was met with absolute stillness. Confused, she murmured, ¡°Why is it so quiet in there?¡± She exchanged a nce with Gracie, who mirrored her action, leaning close to the door to listen.


    The silence was deafening. Typically, at this time, the ward would buzz with the chatter of doctors making their rounds. But today was different.


    Gracie nudged the door open, revealing a pristine room stripped of Kenny¡¯s possessions.


    A young man lounged on apact couch inside. Elsa immediately recognized him as Phil Diaz, one of Emmett¡¯s trusted aides.


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 Chapter 1131

    ?Chapter 1131:


    ¡°Phil, where¡¯s Kenny?¡± A sinking feeling told Elsa that Kenny had been discharged early, deliberately avoiding her.


    Dressed in his crisp military attire, Phil pocketed his phone, walked over, and handed a folded paper to her. ¡°This is from Mr. Mitchell. Please read it.¡± With a formal tone and a respectful salute, Phil left.


    Elsa¡¯s hands shook as she unfolded the document¡ªa court decree finalizing her divorce from Emmett.


    She stared at the paper, the weight of it sinking in; her marriage to Emmett was officially over.


    ¡°Hold on!¡± Elsa¡¯s voice cut through the air, sharp and authoritative as she called after Phil. ¡°Where¡¯s Kenny? Where did he go?¡±


    Phil maintained his polite but detached demeanor, his usual friendliness absent. ¡°Your son was discharged an hour ago. I¡¯m unaware of his current location.¡±


    Ignoring her protests, Phil turned and left.


    Gracie had trailed Elsa outside, attempting to soothe her. ¡°Elsa, don¡¯t panic. Kenny¡¯s probably at home. Let¡¯s check there first.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s anger red. ¡°They think they can just take my son without my permission? Who do they think they are?¡±


    She spun toward Gracie, resolute. ¡°We¡¯re going to find them. Kenny belongs to me!¡±


    Elsa knew every property Kenny owned. If he had gone home, it would be to one of those.


    Gracie followed Elsa as they drove to the house where Kenny had lived after marriage. The two-thousand-square-foot home was empty, with no signs of recent upancy.


    Undeterred, Elsa said, ¡°He¡¯s got other ces. We¡¯ll check them all until we find him.¡±


    They visited each of Kenny¡¯s properties, only to discover they had all been rented out, with no trace of Kenny.


    Fuming by the car, Elsa said, ¡°Emmett has probably taken my son to the base. Let¡¯s head to the militarypound.¡±


    Exhausted from the fruitless search, Gracie hesitated, gently stopping Elsa. ¡°Elsa, maybe we shouldn¡¯t. It seems like Kenny¡¯s father is deliberately keeping him from you. You still have Ethan to look after you. Let¡¯s not go.¡±


    ?????????? ?????????????? ??????????: ?????????¦Í?????????????


    Elsa snapped, ¡°No way! I gave birth to Kenny and raised him for years. Why should I let anyone take him from me? Neither of my sons belongs to Emmett!¡± Elsa climbed into the car, her anger unabated, and Gracie reluctantly joined her. Gracie tried to reason with her, saying, ¡°Elsa, calm down. Kenny and Ethan are your sons, but they¡¯re also their father¡¯s. I¡¯m sure Emmett will take good care of Kenny¡ª¡±


    Elsa understood the logic but couldn¡¯t ept it. ¡°So what? Kenny is mine; he should stay by my side!¡±


    From the driver¡¯s seat, Elsa realized the military base would likely bar their entry. Neither she nor Gracie had clearance. So, she called Ethan.


    The phone rang endlessly, unanswered, fueling her fury. ¡°I raised him all these years, and now, when I¡¯m being treated like this, he won¡¯t even pick up? Let¡¯s go to thepany. I need Ethan to go there with me.¡±


    Gracie was stunned. She hadn¡¯t expected the typicallyposed Elsa to be so stubborn and unreasonable.


    .


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    .

 Chapter 1132

    ?Chapter 1132:


    At thepany, no one blocked Elsa¡¯s path as she stormed to the ny-ninth floor.


    Her reputation for bringing trouble prompted the receptionist to alert the secretary¡¯s office immediately.


    ni hurried to the CEO¡¯s office, knocking briskly before entering.


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell, your mother is here!¡±


    Ethan was mid-discussion with Brenna about refining the market fund strategy. Noticing a missed call from Elsa on his phone, he acted quickly. ¡°Brenna, let¡¯s move this to your office.¡±


    He grabbed his belongings, took Brenna¡¯s hand, and headed out, instructing ni, ¡°If my mother shows up, tell her I am on a business trip and will only be back in three days. Got it?¡±


    ni stifled a grin. It turned out that even Ethan had his fears. ¡°Understood, Mr. Mitchell,¡± she replied.


    Ethan and Brenna took the executive elevator to the 58th floor. Ethan exined in a low voice why he was keeping his distance from Elsa.


    ¡°My father¡¯s had enough of my mother¡¯s need to control everything. He wants a divorce, but she won¡¯t go near a courtroom. For years, he has put up with her because he thought he had no other choice. The truth is, he¡¯s wanted out for a long time. He¡¯s brought the divorce up with me more than once in private.¡±


    Brenna didn¡¯t say a word. She stayed close to him, listening as they stepped into her office together. Greta caught sight of how near they were standing and felt a sting of jealousy. Still, she didn¡¯t do anything. She had already decided to let go of any hope she had of being with Ethan.


    Lorna entered the office behind them and turned to Ethan. ¡°What would you like to drink?¡±


    ¡°Coffee, please,¡± he replied.


    After Lorna had left the room, he continued, ¡°My father was dead set on getting a divorce this time. Even with my mother refusing to y along, he found a way around it by filing for divorce through the court. This morning, he showed me pictures of the divorce decree and sent someone to hand them straight to her. She has likely received them by now and is trying to drag me into their mess. But their problems aren¡¯t mine to fix, so I¡¯m staying out of it.¡±


    Brenna chuckled. ¡°I see. So, even you have things you can¡¯t sort out. I was almost starting to think you were invincible.¡±


    Just then, Lorna¡¯s voice rang out from outside. ¡°Mrs. Mitchell, Miss Wilson, what brings you here?¡±


    ???????? ???????????????? ???????? g???????¦Í????????©o?????


    One look at Elsa¡¯s furious expression told Lorna all she needed to know. Elsa was here to cause trouble. Though Lorna figured Ethan was not afraid to face Elsa, she still thought it was better to give Ethan and Brenna a heads-up by raising her voice.


    She carried two cups of coffee, smiling at Elsa.


    But Elsa was no fool. She saw through Lorna¡¯s tricks right away. Two cups of coffee meant someone else was in the office with Brenna.


    ¡°Who¡¯s in there?¡± she demanded.


    Lorna sensed Elsa would not be easy to handle.


    ¡°Ms. Harper is meeting with a client there. Mrs. Mitchell, if there¡¯s something you¡¯d like to say, you can tell me. I¡¯ll make sure she gets the message. You can wait in the conference room. Ms. Harper will see you once she¡¯s done. How does that sound?¡±


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 Chapter 1133

    ?Chapter 1133:


    ¡°Get out of my way!¡± Elsa shoved past her and stormed into the office. Lorna hurried after her. ¡°You can¡¯t go in there. Miss Harper is in the middle of discussing an important project with a client¡­¡±


    In the wide, sunlit office, Brenna stood alone. Ethan was nowhere in sight.


    Lorna couldn¡¯t tell if this was good or bad.


    Sure enough, Elsa swung around to face Lorna and questioned, ¡°Didn¡¯t you say there were two people here? Why is there only one?¡±


    Lorna managed a strained smile. ¡°The client must¡¯ve gone to use the restroom.¡± The executive office had its own bathroom and a small lounge.


    Elsa shot her a frosty re, clearly not buying it. Without warning, she headed straight for the bathroom door.


    Brenna quickly blocked her way. ¡°What do you think you¡¯re doing?¡±


    Elsa was seething. It was already more than she could bear that Kenny had been avoiding her. Now, Ethan was doing it, too? This infuriated her.


    ¡°Step aside. I¡¯m looking for my son!¡± Elsa shoved at Brenna without the slightest hint of manners.


    But Brenna didn¡¯t flinch. She stayed rooted where she was. Even when Gracie stepped in to help Elsa, Brenna refused to give an inch.


    ¡°My son¡¯s in there, isn¡¯t he?¡± Elsa finally gave up pushing and shot daggers at Brenna. ¡°If he¡¯s not, then why don¡¯t you want me to go inside? What harm is there in letting me check?¡±


    ¡°This is my office,¡± said Brenna calmly. ¡°Do you really think I¡¯m someone you can just push around?¡±


    Elsa let out a harshugh. ¡°Don¡¯t be ridiculous. You have my son wrapped around your finger, and you¡¯ve been making my life a nightmare. And yet, you have the nerve to say you¡¯re the one being pushed around?¡±


    As she spoke, Elsa suddenly lurched forward and trapped Brenna in a hug. Then, she quickly said to Gracie, ¡°Check the bathroom and the lounge for me.¡± Gracie didn¡¯t hesitate. She slipped around Brenna and headed straight for the bathroom. It was empty.


    Then, she went to the lounge. That was also vacant.


    Then, her eyesnded on a wardrobe that looked more than big enough to conceal a person. She strode over and pulled the doors open.


    ???????????? ???????? ¡ú ?????????¦Í??????©q??????


    ¡°Ethan is here!¡± she called out.


    Caught red-handed, Ethan had no choice but to step out of the wardrobe. Brenna gave him a resigned look and gestured as if to tell him she had done all she could.


    Elsa shot Brenna a scathing re.


    Ethan sighed in frustration. ¡°Mom, what do you want?¡±


    Elsa pulled a folded document from her bag and thrust it at him. ¡°Your father divorced me without my consent. I won¡¯t ept it. On top of that, he took Kenny away. You need to go to the military quarters with me and help me bring Kenny back to live with us.¡±


    Ethan stared at Elsa, stunned by her behavior. ¡°You nearly put Kenny, his wife, and their unborn child in harm¡¯s way. Do you honestly think they would want to live under the same roof with you? They¡¯d be out of their minds to do that! Should they just stick around you and wait for you to cause them more trouble? Do you honestly enjoy turning the house upside down every single day?¡±


    Elsa¡¯s fury exploded. ¡°He is my child! Where else would he live if not with me? I did not raise him just to let someone else take him away from me!¡±


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 Chapter 1134

    ?Chapter 1134:


    Ethan let out a weary sigh. ¡°Now, see why Dad wants to divorce you. Why can¡¯t you be reasonable for once? When you say your son, are you forgetting that Kenny is Dad¡¯s son too? What reason do you have to keep him stuck by your side? Are you worried that I cannot take good care of you? If you keep stirring up conflict, I am done with you. You can pack your things and leave my house for all I care!¡±


    He fumed in silence. There was no point in trying to reason with someone like Elsa.


    Elsa, refusing to drop the matter, pushed her agenda. ¡°Will you go see Kenny with me or not?¡± Her words made it clear she expected everything to go her way, no matter what.


    ¡°No. I am staying right here.¡± Ethan dropped onto the sofa, his face unmoved. No words from Elsa would change his mind.


    Meanwhile, Brenna thought Elsa had serious personality issues and was beyond reason.


    Without a word, she leaned back in her seat and decided to watch how things unfolded.


    Fury burned in Elsa¡¯s eyes as she looked at Ethan and Brenna. Giving up on shouting, she slumped down onto the floor and started to cry. ¡°I have spent my whole life caring for my sons, but neither of them listens to me. Why am I even here? Maybe things would be better if I just died¡­¡±


    Her wailing filled the room as she waited to see what Ethan would do. Frustration lined his face. He shot her a look of utter disbelief.


    Spotting her son¡¯s reaction, Elsa took her outburst even further and started hitting herself. ¡°Everything is my fault. I failed as a mother. I am nothing. Why am I still here¡­¡±


    She cast another nce at Ethan, but he stayed still, irritation in on his face as he closed his eyes and ignored her entirely.


    Atst, Elsa got to her feet and moved toward the window, throwing it open.


    Ethan¡¯s heart jumped. While he doubted Elsa would truly throw herself from the window, he also knew she was willing to do anything to force him to go with her. An idental slip from the fifty-eighth floor would be fatal.


    ¡°Alright, I will go with you; is that what you want?¡± Ethan finally gave in, raising his voice at Elsa. ¡°But listen to me. If Kenny refuses to leave with you, let it go. It is bad enough you are making my life miserable; do not ruin Kenny¡¯s life, too!¡±


    A grin broke across Elsa¡¯s face as she shot Brenna a smug look.


    ?????????? ???? ???????? ????????: ?????????¦Í?????????????


    Brenna sat in disbelief. Elsa was really capable of doing something like this? Throwing fits, putting on a spectacle, and threatening her son with her own safety? Brenna wondered what her future would look like if she married Ethan and he had to cave in to Elsa like this every time. She now believed maybe it was wise to take things slow with Ethan and focus on handling Elsa first.


    Brenna met Ethan¡¯s eyes, and he exined, ¡°If my brother speaks to her himself, she might give up. Let her have her tantrum. I am just going to apany her.¡±


    He had no intention of helping Elsa stir up more trouble.


    Brenna felt resigned. ¡°I will leave your family issues to you. Go if you have to. We can talk about the stock marketter today.¡±


    Ethan left with Elsa in frustration, and Gracie followed them.


    When they reached the elevator, Ethan put out an arm to stop Gracie from entering with them. He suspected she might be involved in this chaos, and his anger toward her was evident. ¡°Stay away from my family¡¯s business. You should have sorted out the problems in your own home by now. Go back tonight.¡±


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 Chapter 1135

    ?Chapter 1135:


    Tears filled Gracie¡¯s eyes as she met his gaze, her expression pitiful.


    She hoped he might soften at the sight of her tears and take back those harsh words.


    But he just ignored her and let the elevator doors close before her without a second thought.


    In a sh, Gracie¡¯s tears vanished, her face returning to stone.


    Turning around, she saw Brenna standing nearby.


    She frowned. ¡°What are you staring at?¡±


    ¡°From what I know, there are hardly any mice in this area. Did you go out of your way to buy some and put them at your ce?¡± Cool andposed, Brenna fixed her with a sharp look.


    Ice filled Gracie¡¯s stare. ¡°That¡¯s none of your business! For your information, I spentst night at Ethan¡¯s ce. Have you done the same before?¡± She then strutted away in her high heels.


    Meanwhile, Ethan was driving Elsa to the militarypound. The guard at the entrance let him through without a word.


    Elsa soon stepped out of the car, moving like she owned the ce, and pressed her finger to the scanner to unlock the door of Emmett¡¯s ce.


    She burst inside, still riding the wave of her anger.


    Ethan trailed after her, taking his time and keeping his distance.


    Elsa¡¯s eyes darted around as she said, ¡°Where is Kenny?¡± She scoured every room, but Kenny and Rosanna were nowhere to be found.


    Emmett sat calmly on the sofa, looking like he had been waiting for this. He made no move to stop her.


    He said, ¡°He needed time to heal, so he left. If he stayed, were you nning to shove him down the stairs again?¡±


    That jab sent Elsa over the edge. She stormed over to Emmett. ¡°Where are you hiding him?¡±


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you try guessing?¡± Emmett did not flinch. By now, he was used to Elsa¡¯s wild temper. Every argument with her turned into a spectacle just like this.


    Elsa screamed hysterically, ¡°Tell me now! I want to see Kenny! Bring him here this instant!¡±


    ???????? ???????? ???? ????????: g???????¦Í????????????


    Emmett leisurely sipped his coffee while Elsa¡¯s frustration crackled in the air. Watching him remain so unbothered only sent Elsa¡¯s temper soaring. ¡°I asked you a question! Did you not hear me?¡±


    Setting his cup down with deliberate calm, Emmett nced up at her. ¡°What¡¯s your hurry? Can¡¯t you show a little patience? Take a look at yourself¡ªyou¡¯re losing every bit ofposure a famous artist ought to have. Honestly, you look crazy now.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve pushed me to my limit! Hear me out, Emmett. I¡¯ll agree to divorce you, but I¡¯mying down my terms. Both of our sons need to stay with me. Out of the six houses, I want five¡ªanything but the one on the military base. That¡¯s my condition. And all your savings, which must have piled up by now, should be given to me, too. Meet these demands, or there¡¯s no deal.¡±


    Across the room, Ethan slid into a chair and messaged Brenna, tuning out his parents¡¯ argument. Even if their argument turned violent, he would not intervene.


    A hollowugh escaped Emmett. ¡°You clearly haven¡¯t read the divorce decree. Thew says the properties get split¡ªwe get three each. The money stays separate. Don¡¯t think you can grab my savings, just like I won¡¯t touch yours. I know full well how much Ethan has slipped you on the side these years. You¡¯ve got more than you could ever spend, yet you¡¯re stilling after my money? That¡¯s pure greed.¡±


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 Chapter 1136

    ?Chapter 1136:


    A snort of disdain came from Elsa. ¡°That verdict means nothing to me. I refuse to ept it.¡±


    Emmett¡¯s calm didn¡¯t waver; only his eyes betrayed a flicker of contempt. ¡°Doesn¡¯t matter if you ept it or not. Thew stands. If you¡¯re finished, you should leave now. This isn¡¯t your house anymore.¡±


    Ethan, having finished venting to Brenna about the situation, stood up and said to Elsa, ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Though reluctant to leave, Elsa knew staying here longer was pointless. Seething with anger, she left with Ethan.


    On the way back, Elsained to Ethan about how Emmett had mistreated her over the years.


    ¡°Your dad is a master at shutting me out. After every argument, he¡¯d go silent for ages, sometimes even asking for assignments in the military just to avoid setting foot at home.¡±


    ¡°Raising you and Kenny? That was all on me. He never showed either of you any real attention. But now, Kenny turned his back on me, choosing your father over me.¡±


    Ethan kept his eyes on the road, barely reacting as Elsa¡¯sints filled the car. Her words faded into the background as he drove her straight to the hospital, where Belen waited for care.


    After lunch, Brenna continued discussing business strategies with Ethan until work ended. She then went straight to the hospital, concerned about Joann. Today, she had Lorna order meals from a nearby restaurant and had people deliver them to Joann.


    Nothing could put Brenna at ease until she saw Joann with her own eyes and checked on her.


    Lorna handed Brenna the desserts she had bought, perfect for elderly people with sensitive teeth to enjoy.


    Brenna looked at the selection and felt pleased.


    Down in the lobby, Brenna immediately noticed Alec¡¯s usual spot was empty. She took a detour to the security office, where a young guard informed her Alec had taken the day off.


    Guessing he might be with Joann, Brenna made her way straight to the hospital.


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    Near the hospital, Brenna bought some fruit from a stand before heading to Joann¡¯s room.


    ¡°Joann?¡± Brenna said as she entered, finding only Gia, the caregiver, present. ¡°Gia, where¡¯s Alec? He is not here?¡±


    Gia shook her head. ¡°He hasn¡¯t dropped by once today. Your grandmother was just asking about him.¡±


    Propped against her pillows, Joann was glued to a sappy romance drama on her tablet.


    ¡°I brought you some desserts, Grandma,¡± Brenna remembered that Joann loved desserts and pastries. Back when the Barrett family had still been wealthy, her grandmother had always had a steady supply of desserts.


    ¡°You know what I like well,¡± Joann perked up, easing herself upright while Gia rolled over a table and helped Brenna put the desserts on the table.


    ¡°You are so good to your grandmother, Miss Harper. These desserts look delicious!¡± Gia said.


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 Chapter 1137

    ?Chapter 1137:


    Joann chuckled and started eating.


    The door creaked open just then, and Alec walked in, shoulders slumped.


    Brenna¡¯s gaze narrowed. ¡°Where have you been?¡±


    Alec sat by his mother¡¯s bed, sighing heavily with a sorrowful expression.


    ¡°Damn it! Women are nothing but heartless!¡±


    One nce at Alec¡¯s rumpled clothes made Brenna frown.


    ¡°What happened?¡± she asked.


    Wiping his tears, Alec let the truth spill out. ¡°L kicked me out because she believed I wouldn¡¯t get rich again. I tried reminding her we¡¯re still married, so technically, I could go home any time. She is really a scheming woman. You know what she said to me?¡±


    Joann fixed Alec with a look of thinly veiled scorn, arching an eyebrow. ¡°You never even bothered to register your marriage, did you?¡±


    Alec let out a heavy sigh. Then, tears welled up and rolled down his cheeks. Right away, Brenna put the pieces together. ¡°So, it¡¯s true? You really didn¡¯t register your marriage with her?¡±


    Suddenly, Alec broke down entirely. ¡°No. Back when I was flush with cash, I supported her for years, and she poured on the sweetness, said she loved me every single day. If we didn¡¯t see each other, she¡¯d blow up my phone, acting like she couldn¡¯t live without me. But once I went broke, she changedpletely. Now, I realize she never loved me.¡±


    Brenna¡¯sughter rang out, sharp as ss. ¡°Look at you¡ªold, worn down, no charm left, and barely holding it together. What did you think she loved, your wrinkles or your thinning hair? You should have seen the reality sooner.¡± Joann paused for another bite of her pastry before saying, ¡°All she ever loved was your money. You lost the money, so out you went.¡±


    Alec cried for a while longer, and when he finally stopped crying, he turned to Brenna. ¡°Brenna, after everything I¡¯ve done for you all these years, you can¡¯t just toss me aside. I¡¯ve got nowhere to go now. Please, help me find a roof over my head.¡±


    Even Joann watched Brenna expectantly. She might think Alec was hopeless, but the idea of him living on the street was more than she could bear.


    ¡°I can rent a ce for you and pay several months¡¯ rent. You can stay there for now. With your monthly sry of over ten thousand, you can certainly support yourself,¡± Brenna said. ¡°Had you not left Ruby, maybe you¡¯d still be living infort. You have only yourself to me for this.¡±


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    For a moment, Joann sat silent, the realization sinking in that Brenna¡¯s grudge against Alec hadn¡¯t faded. She knew now she depended entirely on Brenna for her treatment and care, so even though she felt for her son, she didn¡¯t speak up for him.


    Alec knew Brenna resented him, and he regretted how he had treated her before deeply. ¡°Didn¡¯t your parents give you several properties?¡± He gazed at her with hope, searching her face for a hint of sympathy.


    Brenna gave him a cool stare. ¡°They did. Hoping I¡¯ll give you one?¡±


    Embarrassment colored Alec¡¯s face. Still, he was unable to hide his desperation. He gave a small, hopeful nod.


    ¡°Just give me one¡ªsomething simple, somewhere to sleep. I can¡¯t keep renting forever. What happens when I can¡¯t work anymore? How will I survive then? I know I wasn¡¯t perfect, but I did raise you. You can¡¯t be too heartless to me. You have more than enough. You¡¯re making millions on your projects. A small house is nothing to you.¡±


    .


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 Chapter 1138

    ?Chapter 1138:


    Brenna said, ¡°Alec, you really have some nerve. Do you remember how you kept me out of school as a kid, forcing me to stay home, sketching blueprints and making money for you? I will remember that forever. Renting a ce for you is as far as my help goes. If you want a house, keep hoping. You still have your own children; ask them for a house.¡±


    ¡°I tried, but all I got were insults and bruises. They drove me away! That¡¯s why I came to you. Would you really let me live on the street?¡± Alec asked angrily, sensing that Brenna also did not want to help him.


    ¡°Try taking your children to court. Thew will force them to support you financially,¡± Brenna said coolly, her tone t. Her gaze slid to her grandmother, who stayed silent through it all. ¡°Grandma, I¡¯ve still got work to handle. I¡¯ll visit you tomorrow.¡±


    She didn¡¯t want to waste another second on Alec.


    A heavy sigh left Joann, but she didn¡¯t speak up for her son.


    ¡°Go on, young people like you always have things to do. I will not keep you,¡± she said.


    Alec watched Brenna enter the elevator from the doorway before finally giving up.


    He wasted no time returning to the room and confronting Joann, saying, ¡°You know she respects you. If you¡¯d just spoken up for me, Brenna would¡¯ve agreed to my request. Why didn¡¯t you say something for me earlier? One word from you, and I¡¯d have a house by now.¡±


    Joann had expected him to say this. He had been selfish since childhood, always thinking only of himself.


    She said, ¡°I am over eighty now, and I do not have many years left. I cannot help you with your problems. You need to solve them yourself. Didn¡¯t Brenna offer to rent you a ce and cover the rent for the first few months? Isn¡¯t that enough?¡±


    Discontent twisted Alec¡¯s features. ¡°That¡¯s nowhere near enough. All she¡¯s offering is a rental and a few months¡¯ grace. That¡¯s nothingpared to owning a home. If I had a ce of my own, you could live there, too.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m content at the nursing home. I enjoy my freedom. If you want Brenna to give you a house, talk to her on your own; I won¡¯t be dragged into it,¡± Joann replied coldly.


    Hearing that, Alec stormed out, his anger written all over his face.


    ???????? ?????????????? @ ?????????¦Í?????????????


    Nearby, Gia scoffed inwardly. She thought that both Alec and Joann were selfish.


    Left alone, Joann muttered under her breath, ¡°He spent years mistreating and using Brenna. Now that age and poverty have caught up with him, he wants to take advantage of her again. But she has grown up, and he can¡¯t push her around anymore. He deserves his present misery.¡±


    Alec lingered just outside the hospital¡¯s entrance, watching strangers pass him by, swallowed by the feeling that he¡¯d been abandoned by everyone.


    The world felt impossibly big, millions with homes to return to, while he wandered with nowhere to go. Everyone, it seemed, had turned their backs on him. Even Brenna, the girl he¡¯d raised, was cold to him. Not even his own mother would take his side. What had he done to deserve this?


    He couldn¡¯t ept it. He had always believed he was in the right and didn¡¯t deserve any of this.


    Staring at his phone, he scrolled aimlessly through his contacts until hended on the only person who could help him¡ªRosie.


    For months, he¡¯d been doing everything she asked. Whenever Rosie needed information on Brenna or Ethan, he delivered, passing along whatever secrets he picked up around the Mitchell Group.


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 Chapter 1139

    ?Chapter 1139:


    In exchange, Rosie always made sure he got something out of the deal. Each time Alec passed along a juicy tip, his ount bnce grew by anywhere from twenty grand to a hundred grand, sometimes even more. Over time, he had saved enough money to rent a ce and support himself,


    But he was still dissatisfied with how things had turned out. He med all his misfortunes on Rosie.


    He believed that Rosie should be the one to help him now. She should at least provide him with a ce to stay.


    Without hesitation, Alec tapped her number and called.


    Rosie answered in a heartbeat. ¡°So, what¡¯s the scoop this time?¡±


    ¡°Miss Harper, I really need your help now.¡± No matter how much Alec resented Rosie, she was hisst lifeline. He couldn¡¯t risk upsetting her, not when she was the only one willing to help him now.


    Rosie¡¯s tone was icy,ced with mockingughter.


    Alec heard every bit of it, and although he hated her, he didn¡¯t let it show. Rosie asked, ¡°You are in trouble? What happened? With me on your side, what are you worried about?¡±


    Her questions brought a flicker of hope to Alec¡¯s chest. ¡°L kicked me out. I have nowhere to go now, Miss Harper. You can¡¯t let me sleep on a park bench like a homeless person.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s got a bunch of properties, but she won¡¯t give me even one. All those years raising her were for nothing! And that¡¯s not all, Miss Harper. I¡¯ve got a lot more to tell you if you¡¯ll just listen¡­¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s rough. L really threw you out?¡± Rosie¡¯s voice was cold. ¡°Don¡¯t worry; I won¡¯t let her get away with it.¡±


    In Rosie¡¯s mind, L had yed the role of the mistress for a long time. She¡¯d always been trouble, and Rosie wanted to teach her a lesson.


    Alec said, ¡°Exactly, Miss Harper. I¡¯ve told her that I worked for you, and you promised me a big payoff down the line. But L wouldn¡¯t even let me exin. She tossed me out harshly, and my son isn¡¯t any better. He¡¯s just like his mother, always nagging me about money. I need your help to get back at both of them! Oh, and they¡¯re living in a house I paid for. If anyone should leave, it¡¯s them, not me.¡±


    That thought suddenly lit a spark in Alec¡¯s mind. Why beg Rosie for a ce when he already owned one? Why should he be the one sleeping on the street? L and her son were the ones who needed to be kicked out.


    ¡°Rx, I¡¯ve got it covered. I¡¯ll send you an address; you can crash there for a while. It¡¯s one of my properties,¡± Rosie quickly texted him the details.


    ?????????????????? ???? ???????????????? ¡ú g???????¦Í????????????


    Seeing Rosie¡¯s message, Alec actually felt a bit of relief settle in his chest. ¡°By the way, Miss Harper, I¡¯ve been looking after my mom at the hospitaltely. I ran into the Mitchell family. Kenny was hospitalized, and Ethan¡¯s grandma is also at the hospital. Ethan¡¯s parents are getting divorced¡­¡±


    Rosie¡¯s tone shifted; she became interested. ¡°Oh? That¡¯s news to me. I haven¡¯t checked in on the Mitchell familytely. Sounds like there¡¯s a lot to catch up on. Tell me everything.¡±


    Alec shared everything he knew with Rosie.


    The conversation stretched on for a good half hour. When it ended, Alec checked his phone and saw a fresh deposit¡ªtwo hundred grand. He smiled to himself, thinking he¡¯d made the right choice sticking with Rosie. She was more generous than his own family.


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 Chapter 1140

    Chapter 1140:


    The next morning, Brenna arrived at work and caught sight of Alec at the building¡¯s entrance, looking more refreshed than ever.


    Brenna examined him from head to toe. His outfit was spotless, his hair perfectly styled, and he seemed downright cheerful. ¡°Where¡¯d you stayst night?¡± she asked.


    She couldn¡¯t help but wonder. Just yesterday, Alec had nowhere to go, yet today, he looked to be in such a good mood.


    Alec smoothed his jacket and shed Brenna a smug look. ¡°If you won¡¯t look after me, someone else will. I¡¯m hardly struggling. I¡¯m actually doing just fine.¡±


    Brenna noticed the faint trace of expensive cologne on him but didn¡¯t press for details. She headed for the elevator, phone already out, texting her bodyguard to look into Alec¡¯s whereabouts from the night before. With the way he looked, she doubted he¡¯d spent the night at just a hotel.


    Around 10 a.m., Brenna was at her desk, adjusting a robot prototype, when Lorna pushed open the office door. Behind her were Jayceon and Fay, thetter wearing a striking burgundy gown that hugged her curves. Fay¡¯s steps had a subtle sway as she clung to Jayceon¡¯s arm, a bright smile on her face.


    Lorna paused, ncing back with a polite nod. ¡°Please wait here for a moment.¡± However, Jayceon ignored her, guiding Fay inside without hesitation.


    Lorna¡¯s brow furrowed. ¡°Mr. Russell, Ms. Harper hasn¡¯t invited you in. It¡¯s rude to barge in like this.¡±


    Jayceon, exuding an air of superiority, looked down at Brenna, showing no concern for a mere assistant like Lorna.


    ¡°No need to worry; I¡¯ll speak with Ms. Harper myself about this,¡± he said. Brenna lifted her gaze, taking in Jayceon¡¯s polished, charismatic demeanor, noting there were no signs of injury from his recent ident.


    ¡°I figured you¡¯d be hobbling or stuck in a wheelchair for good,¡± she remarked, stepping away from her desk with folded arms and a taunting smirk.


    Jayceon extended a luxurious red and gold-embossed invitation to Brenna. ¡°I see you as family¡ªwhy would you wish me ill like that?¡± he said, feigning hurt. Brenna¡¯s eyes flicked to Fay. ¡°You look stunning today.¡±


    Fay¡¯s face lit up. ¡°Thanks for the kind words. We¡¯re holding a wedding in two weeks at the Peace Hotel. We¡¯d love for you to be there, Brenna.¡±


    Brenna harbored a deep dislike for both Jayceon and Fay, feeling they had wronged Ellie. Fay had mocked Brenna upon her return, and the couple¡¯s choice to have Ellie¡¯s studio craft their wedding attire felt like a calcted jab. Although Ellie had moved on from Jayceon, Brenna still found their actions distasteful.


    ???????? ???????? ????????: ?????????¦Í????????????


    ¡°I¡¯ll think about it,¡± Brenna replied curtly, already having decided against attending the moment she saw the invitation.


    Fay¡¯s expression soured. ¡°Brenna, Jayceon invited you because you¡¯re Mr. Harper¡¯s sister. He truly sees you like family, not some stranger. There¡¯s no reason for you to refuse.¡±


    Brenna let out a derisiveugh, her smile dripping with sarcasm as she eyed Jayceon. ¡°You and I are not exactly family, considering we¡¯re not rted.¡±


    Jayceon¡¯s face hardened, his earlier warmth evaporating. He found Brenna¡¯s attitude rude. ¡°Miss¡­


    Harper, the choice to attend is yours. I¡¯ve delivered the invitation. I still have business with Mr. Moreno, so I won¡¯t keep you from your work.¡±


    .


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    .<hr>


    Message from Noah: Hope you liked the chapters dear ones. God loves you and Noah wishes you all the best. (¡ä?? ? ??`) ?


    .

 Chapter 1141

    ?Chapter 1141:


    ¡°Bye,¡± Brenna said, tossing the invitation carelessly onto her desk.


    Fay set a red gift box on the desk, shooting Brenna a smug look before looping her arm through Jayceon¡¯s and walking away with him.


    Brenna lifted the box, noting its weight, and opened it to reveal an assortment of high-end wedding candles and choctes.


    ¡°Pass these around to everyone,¡± she instructed Lorna.


    She idly inspected the elegantly packaged candies and heart-shaped choctes. As one of the city¡¯s elite families, the Russell family clearly spared no expense on this. Brenna estimated the box¡¯s contents were worth at least ten thousand, a testament to the extravagance of high-society weddings.


    Lorna took the box and left.


    Irritated, Brenna grabbed her phone to text Ellie but hesitated, unsure whether to share news that might upset her friend.


    Before she could decide, Ellie called her.<fnefc5> Updates are released by fin?novel</fnefc5>


    Answering, Brenna quickly heard Ellie¡¯s frustrated voice. ¡°I¡¯m in a rotten mood. I need to go.¡±


    ¡°You heard about the news, didn¡¯t you?¡± Brenna asked, picking up on Ellie¡¯s distress.


    ¡°It¡¯s not just that Jayceon is getting married; Fay¡¯s also trying to get under my skin. I got two sets of invitations and wedding favors. Jayceon¡¯s in on it too, trying to rub it in my face. Can you believe they both sent me invites and candies? Is he mocking me for not picking him? Does he think I¡¯m regretting my decision? He¡¯s out of his mind if he thinks I¡¯d show up to his wedding. I¡¯m not going,¡± Ellie said, her tone thick with irritation and disgust.


    Brenna rolled her eyes. ¡°He¡¯s just trying to provoke you. He was just in my office, then left to drop off an invitation for your husband. Let¡¯s go shopping; I¡¯ll go pick you up.¡±


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll be at the studio, waiting for you. I¡¯m so tempted to ruin their wedding outfits and humiliate them at their wedding,¡± Ellie said, ring at the empty clothing rack. She had briefly considered sabotaging the couple¡¯s formal attire, but the garments had already been delivered to them that morning.


    She was really angry now.


    Brenna arrived at Ellie¡¯s studio and found her waiting downstairs, talking on the phone. Her face was aplex blend of emotions, leaving Brenna unsure whether she was pleased or upset.


    ???????? ???????????? ????????: ????????¦Í??????£®?????


    ¡°Oh, you poor thing, you¡¯ve been through so much,¡± Brenna said softly, cradling Ellie¡¯s face with concern. ¡°I just saw those two creeps, Jayceon and Fay, storming out of your husband¡¯s office. Jayceon looked livid; your husband must have stood up for you. Don¡¯t be upset anymore, alright?¡±


    Ellie ended her call, her voice tinged with frustration. ¡°That jerk has been tormenting me, and I¡¯ve had enough. On his wedding day, I¡¯ll show up with his son just to ruin his moment!¡±


    ¡°You really should do it! We¡¯ll show him we can y dirty, too!¡± Brenna said, ushering Ellie into the car.


    Today, they had only one bodyguard with them, as Bain was off investigating Alec¡¯s situation.


    In the car, Ellie vented her frustration, saying, ¡°You can¡¯t imagine how furious I was. Shirie¡¯s a massive city, overflowing with fashion studios and high-end brands, yet Jayceon insists onmissioning me for a custom order, dangling an offer too good to refuse.¡±


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 Chapter 1142

    ?Chapter 1142:


    Brenna turned to her, her tone firm. ¡°Do you really need his money? Where¡¯s your pride? We don¡¯t need his filthy cash. No matter how much he offers, turn him down; that¡¯ll hit him where it hurts!¡±


    Ellie rolled her eyes and shed two fingers at Brenna. ¡°He offered me this much.¡±


    Brenna scoffed. ¡°Twenty million and you caved? That¡¯s pathetic.¡±


    ¡°Darling, not twenty million¡ªtwo hundred million! Why would I care about a measly twenty million?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s jaw dropped. ¡°Really? Then I think you won. Jayceon¡¯s a fool for dropping two hundred million on a wedding dress. Honestly, he¡¯s just trying to mess with you because he can¡¯t let you go. Don¡¯t you see? Fay looks like you. He chose to marry her because he¡¯s still obsessed with you. This is all a ploy to provoke you. Unable to win you over, he went for someone who looks like you.¡±


    Ellie burst outughing, her mood lifting instantly. ¡°You¡¯re right. He¡¯s clearly not over me. When he was recovering from his injuries, he called Patrick nearly every day. His marriage to Fay is just a petty jab at me.¡±


    Brenna said smugly, ¡°He will never have you, and he will regret it forever!¡±


    ¡°That perspective does cheer me up. On his wedding day, I¡¯ll bring Patrick there and ruin his mood.¡± Ellie looked at Brenna. ¡°You know, I haven¡¯t told Thiago about the order; I was worried he would be upset. I even designed two outfits for him, a suit and something casual, to make up for it. I¡¯ll bring them home tonight for him to try.¡±


    Brenna chuckled. ¡°I¡¯m with you. If that jerk¡¯s throwing around that kind of money, why not take it?¡±


    They soon arrived at Shirie¡¯s renowned pedestrian street, a globalndmark and a top destination for both locals and international tourists.


    The bustling strip was packed with prestigious fashion, jewelry, and culinary brands from around the world, with shops lining both sides, teeming with crowds.


    Once Brenna and Ellie stepped out of the car, Brenna¡¯s bodyguard, Greg Krik, parked the car and trailed closely behind them, his eyes scanning the crowd vigntly.


    Though Ellie was a celebrated fashion designer, she didn¡¯t craft her own wardrobe¡ªher designs were for business, not personal use.


    She and Brenna strolled casually, checking out every store.


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    Ellie gestured toward a menswear shop up ahead. ¡°That ce is top-tier. Their brand is a standout in men¡¯s fashion. Let¡¯s take a look inside.¡±


    Brenna, less savvy about fashion, deferred to Ellie¡¯s expertise. ¡°I¡¯ll grab something for my man, too.¡±


    Ellie grinned mischievously. ¡°Oh, my man? You are referring to Ethan so sweetly.¡±


    Brenna gave her a yful pinch. ¡°You¡¯re annoying!¡±


    The store was vast, divided into sections for formal and casual attire. Brenna bypassed the suits since Ethan wore them daily, wanting to find something fresh for him.


    An elegant saleswoman approached, eyeing their designer outfits and pegging them as affluent shoppers.


    ¡°Ladies, ourtest collection is right this way. Who are you shopping for?¡±<fnc9bf> Original content can be found at FindN()vel</fnc9bf>


    ¡°Ellie, these 100k great!¡± Brenna said excitedly, spotting sleek jackets avable in four colors¡ªck, navy, sky blue, and khaki. She was debating which would suit Ethan the best when a familiar voice broke her focus. Turning, she saw Fay holding a brown jacket, sizing it up against a man¡¯s back.


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 Chapter 1143

    ?Chapter 1143:


    ¡°What an unpleasant surprise,¡± Ellie muttered, her enthusiasm for shopping vanishing after she saw Fay.


    ¡°Well, if it isn¡¯t Ellie! What a coincidence,¡± Fay greeted them with a fake smile.


    Ellie rolled her eyes silently, feeling more frustrated. Though she no longer loved Jayceon and despised him deeply, seeing him with Fay still affected her mood. She murmured, ¡°Imagine running into someone you can¡¯t stand. Just my luck.¡±


    She kept her tone even, unconcerned whether Jayceon or Fay caught herment.


    Jayceon¡¯s gaze lingered on Ellie; he noticed that she looked even younger and more beautiful than before. For a moment, something stirred in him, but he quickly masked it with a casual smile. ¡°Small world, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    Lifting a tailored jacket, Ellie ran her fingers over the stitching, then nced at Fay with a faint, mocking smile. ¡°You don¡¯t own the ce. Am I supposed to avoid stores just because you¡¯re here?¡±


    Fay¡¯s reply was a quietugh, her eyes shining with smugness. Ellie¡¯s irritation was proof enough that Jayceon still mattered to her. She didn¡¯t know every detail of their history, but she had heard whispers¡ªEllie had been pregnant back then, and the Russell family had refused to ept her.


    So she believed that even if Jayceon still had feelings for Ellie, her humble background disqualified her from marrying him. They might have loved each other, but so what? In the end, she would be the one marrying Jayceon. With a satisfied tilt of her chin, Fay said, ¡°I never imed you couldn¡¯t shop here. It¡¯s just a surprise to see you. Who are you buying clothes for?¡±


    Her sharp starended on the garment in Ellie¡¯s hands, noting its size, a perfect fit for Jayceon.


    It crossed her mind that maybe Ellie, after doing Jayceon¡¯s order, still remembered his measurements and was shopping for a wedding present for him.


    Ellie didn¡¯t miss a beat. ¡°Who else would I buy for? My husband, obviously. Or maybe my father. You should really mind your own business.¡±


    Fay was left speechless.


    A softugh escaped Brenna, who tossed Fay a teasing look. ¡°Do you want to buy this jacket, Fay?¡±


    ?????????????? ????????: ?????????¦Í?????????????


    With a dismissive sneer, Fay shot a nce at the khaki jacket Ellie was holding. ¡°Please. That thing is hideous. I wouldn¡¯t want it even if you paid me.¡±<fnb> ?????? ???? Find[F]ovel</fnb>


    Ellie countered with a pointed look at the ck shirt draped over Fay¡¯s arm. ¡°That¡¯s a terrible choice for Jayceon. The grey one would do him justice, not ck.¡±


    Fay¡¯s eyes shed wide as she retorted, ¡°I¡¯m his wife. If I think it looks good on him, that¡¯s what he¡¯ll wear.¡±


    Watching Fay¡¯s temper rise gave Ellie a quiet sense of triumph. ¡°I¡¯m a professional designer¡ªI actually know how to put together an outfit. Or have you forgotten that it was you who asked me to design your wedding dress?¡± The more Ellie spoke, the lighter her mood became, her confidence bubbling up.


    Irritation colored Fay¡¯s voice. ¡°I never wanted you to design the dress in the first ce¡ª¡±


    Jayceon interjected with a quiet nudge, ¡°Let it go.¡±


    Stung, Fay bristled in silence. She¡¯d never wanted Ellie as her designer in the first ce. That was all Jayceon¡¯s idea; he said Ellie was a world-renowned designer and wearing her designs would bring prestige.


    Now regret prickled at her; she was convinced Jayceon¡¯s feelings for Ellie hadn¡¯t faded.


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 Chapter 1144

    ?Chapter 1144:


    Tugging Jayceon¡¯s sleeve, sheined, ¡°Are you really taking her side over mine when we¡¯re about to get married?¡±


    A cold look from Jayceon made Fay fall quiet at once.


    Shifting his focus, he turned to Ellie. ¡°Did you receive my wedding invitation?¡±


    Ellie lifted an eyebrow, the hint of a smirk ying at her lips. ¡°I did. You can count on me to show up and congratte you.¡±


    A noticeable shift brightened Jayceon¡¯s expression. He took the ck shirt from Fay, slid it back onto the rack, and opted for a gray one instead. ¡°Let¡¯s go with this color.¡±


    Fay was all too aware that her resemnce to Ellie was the real reason Jayceon was marrying her. Any outburst now would only backfire. So, she kept her frustration to herself and shot Ellie a resentful look.


    The whole exchange only fueled Ellie¡¯s satisfaction. ¡°I¡¯ll take this in my husband¡¯s size; thank you.¡±


    Enjoying every second of the drama, the clerk epted the garment from Ellie with a grin. ¡°I¡¯ll get this wrapped up for you right away.¡±


    Jayceon felt frustrated. After Ellie left, he picked up a nearly identical piece from the rack.


    Fay pursed her lips in protest but kept her voice low. ¡°This one actually looks pretty nice,¡± she muttered.


    Meanwhile, Brenna shed Ellie a thumbs-up. ¡°You were amazing just now, Ellie.¡±


    Leaning in, she whispered, ¡°Honestly, Jayceon¡¯s invitation is just his excuse to stay in touch with you. Fay¡¯s doing it to get under your skin. The way you outyed them was priceless. Fay looked ready to explode just now!¡±


    Ellie, now in high spirits, selected a few more pieces from the racks.


    Brenna soon noticed a pattern¡ªevery time Ellie made a choice, Jayceon¡¯s eyes would flicker in her direction.


    ¡°This one would be great for Ethan,¡± Ellie said to Brenna, pointing out a pale blue sports sweatshirt.


    Spotting the disy of sweatshirts, Brenna was tempted to pick out a few more. A disy of lingerie and socks caught Ellie¡¯s eye, and she made her way toward it.


    Jayceon, seizing the chance, followed her.


    ?????????????? ???????? ????: ?????????¦Í????????©q?????


    He approached her and asked, ¡°How¡¯s life been treating you these days, Ellie?¡±


    Jayceon¡¯s shoulders tensed as he stood in front of the men¡¯s underwear section, unsure of where to look.<fn3f71> For more chapters visit Find[F]ovel</fn3f71>


    Watching Ellie carefully choose something so personal for Thiago sent a sharp pang through his chest, making it difficult to breathe.


    Without hesitation, Ellie reached for a pair of dark blue boxers and nced at the tag to check the size.


    Irritation simmered within Jayceon as he snatched the boxers from her grasp and shoved them back onto the disy.


    Ellie¡¯s eyes narrowed into a re. Then she handed the boxers to the sales clerk and said, ¡°I¡¯m taking these.¡±


    In one fierce motion, she snatched more underwear off the shelf and dumped the pile into the clerk¡¯s arms.


    Jayceon stared at the underwear, lost for words, before turning to her. ¡°Is Thiago treating you so well? You¡¯re even buying him underwear? I know you don¡¯t actually love him. Stop pretending you do just to spite me. Just be honest¡ªsay you don¡¯t love him, say he means nothing, and I¡¯ll marry you right now.¡± His voice rising, he continued, ¡°What is so great about him anyway? He is poorpared to me and not half as good-looking as me. I can give you everything he can¡¯t. Look at your life with him¡ªyou¡¯re still working like before. He cannot support you financially or give you the life you want. You should be with someone who can give youfort. Just divorce him and marry me.¡±


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 Chapter 1145

    ?Chapter 1145:


    Ellie rolled her eyes at his empty promises. ¡°I remember you said the same thing to me before. And what happened? Your family refused to ept me, and you did nothing. Why would I believe you now?¡±


    Shaking his head, Jayceon replied, ¡°Things have changed now. I have my own business separate from my family. No one can control my work or my personal life anymore. And from the way you talk, it¡¯s clear you still have feelings for me. You only married Thiago because you felt grateful to him after all the help he offered you.¡±<fn6504> Follow current nov?ls on Find~Novel</fn6504>


    His eyes flickered to Brenna. ¡°Word is, he pursued Brenna before. Doesn¡¯t that bother you at all?¡±


    Ellie let out a sharpugh. ¡°Stop talking nonsense. Don¡¯t try to drive a wedge between us. Who says I don¡¯t love him? When I was alone in Norview with a child, working and raising the kid, do you know how hard it was? I couldn¡¯t handle everything. Thiago helped me, took care of the child when he was sick, and looked after me when I was ill. I gradually fell in love with him. He also helped advance my career. My sess¡­


    Today is thanks to him! I love that man! He¡¯s reliable and trustworthy¡ªqualities you never showed me.¡± Anger still burning, Ellie turned to walk away.


    But before she could take a step, Jayceon reached out and caught her arm. ¡°You¡¯re lying. He¡¯s not better than me. Not in any way!¡±


    ¡°You really think so? But to me, he¡¯s better than you in every way!¡± Ellie yanked her arm free and walked to Brenna.


    Jayceon did not follow her. He just stared at the underwear, growing more furious.


    Wanting to leave this ce, Ellie said, ¡°Are you finished, Brenna? Let¡¯s get out of here.¡±


    Setting down the clothes, Brenna nodded. ¡°Yeah, let¡¯s go.¡±


    Ellie paid and left, continuing shopping with Brenna elsewhere.


    ¡°Running into that jerk really kills my mood,¡± Ellie said. She and Brenna chatted as they shopped until noon.


    When lunchtime rolled around, Brenna noticed the string of restaurants along the street. She quickly texted Lorna for a rmendation and soon went to a restaurant Lorna mentioned. She invited the bodyguard to join them for the meal.


    Everything about the ce oozed charm¡ªfrom the eclectic decor to the mixed crowd filling the booths and bar.


    ???????????????? ???????????????? ????????????: g????????¦Í?????????????


    ¡°Hi there! What would you like to order?¡± A waitress with a bright smile approached them.


    As soon as Brenna looked up, her expression froze. ¡°Isabe?¡±


    Isabe¡¯s face flushed crimson. Without replying, she turned and bolted. Stunned, Brenna watched as she vanished in her uniform and cap, swallowed by the kitchen in seconds.


    Another staff member approached, apologetic. ¡°Sorry about that. My coworker isn¡¯t feeling well. I¡¯ll be helping you instead.¡±


    Brenna raised an eyebrow. That didn¡¯t add up. Wasn¡¯t Isabe supposed to be working for Rosie?


    Had Rosie not provided her with housing and money?


    Why was she working here?


    ¡°Do you know how long that waitress has been working here?¡± Brenna asked.


    After a pause, the waiter responded, ¡°She joined about a week ago.¡±


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 Chapter 1146

    ?Chapter 1146:


    With a thoughtful nod, Brenna took the menu and began scanning it for options. Isabe peeked out cautiously from the kitchen. Of all people, she hadn¡¯t expected to run into Brenna.


    It was so humiliating.


    The idea of Brenna catching her in such a humble job made her want to vanish. She clung to the hope that Brenna would eat quickly and leave.


    Out in the dining area, waiters and waitresses rushed around as orders piled up. Isabe was the only one who was not working.


    The manager noticed and said sharply, ¡°Why are you not working? Can¡¯t you see everyone is drowning in work? If you do not want to work, you can resign right now!¡±


    Cornered, Isabe said in a pleading voice, ¡°Please, sir. Someone I know is here. Can I stay in the back and do something else instead for now? I¡¯m begging you.¡±


    Frustration simmered in the manager¡¯s eyes. With the dining room nearly at capacity, waiters rushed back and forth, darting between the kitchen and the dining area. He wished he could split himself in two just to help them. His finger jabbed toward the dining area.


    ¡°Just look¡ªthis is our busiest hour! We pride ourselves on providing an exclusive dining experience, and our customers are exacting. wless service is non-negotiable. You are new here and already not cooperating? Like I told you before, if you¡¯re not up for the job, you¡¯re free to go. We don¡¯t keep ckers around.¡±


    Isabe got the message loud and clear. She treasured this job¡ªwaitressing was exhausting, sure, but the pay was decent, and every shift brought her into contact with the city¡¯s wealthy elite. Money wasn¡¯t her only motivation; she was here hoping to meet the right man.


    She was well aware of her own charms, confident that sooner orter, someone important would be interested in her.


    Nervously, Isabe pointed to Brenna¡¯s table. ¡°Sir, see those three? The pretty woman is a rtive of mine. My family used to have money, and I¡¯d rather she not find out I¡¯m working here, I¡¯m begging you¡­¡±<fnf78a> This text is hosted at find~novel</fnf78a>


    ¡°No exceptions,¡± the manager snapped. ¡°Either get to work or resign. Plenty of people would jump at your job. This is peak time, and you¡¯re making things difficult for me. How am I supposed to run a ce with someone like you as an employee?¡± His patience was at its end.


    Tears stung Isabe¡¯s eyes. She¡¯d always looked down on Brenna, and the thought of Brenna seeing her like this was mortifying.


    ?????? ???????????????? ???????? ¡ú g???????¦Í?????????????


    ¡°Get a move on!¡± the manager shouted again. ¡°Can¡¯t you see the restaurant is packed? More customers just walked in. Go serve the group that just arrived.¡± Isabe¡¯s stomach dropped as she recognized the new customers: Rosie, Tina, and Judy. Her thoughts scrambled. Just two weeks ago, she and Rosie had had a fallout when she had refused to date an older, wealthy man Rosie had picked out for her. Outraged, Rosie had taken back everything she had given her, including previous payments, her apartment, and monthly allowances. Even Mack had felt the consequences, losing his perks and his spot at thepany.


    With no money, Isabe and Ruby were barely scraping by. Only Mack¡¯s savings from his time at Rosie¡¯s firm kept them afloat, and that was disappearing fast. Isabe¡¯s pride had taken a back seat to necessity; she¡¯d had no choice but to find work.


    Now, Rosie certainly despised her. Isabe knew trouble wasing if she approached their table.


    As a male colleague rushed past, Isabe caught his sleeve, nearly sending his tray falling. He shot her a re and hissed, ¡°Have you lost your mind?¡± She quickly released him and said, ¡°Sorry, really sorry. Can you help me out here? I know those women. Please, could you take their table? I can¡¯t let them see me working here.¡±


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 Chapter 1147

    ?Chapter 1147:


    Annoyance shed in the waiter¡¯s eyes as he brushed her off. ¡°I¡¯m covering table five. You handle your own customers. If you¡¯re scared of bumping into people you know, maybe this isn¡¯t the right job for you. We¡¯re all here to make a living. There¡¯s nothing to be ashamed of.¡± With that, he walked away without another nce.


    Noticing the manager¡¯s watchful stare, Isabe swallowed her pride and made her way to the table.


    She mustered her calmest voice. ¡°Good evening. May I take your order?¡±


    Judy and Tina couldn¡¯t contain themselves; they burst outughing on the spot. Rosie¡¯s gaze was cold and cutting, her eyes running up and down Isabe with obvious disdain. ¡°Listen to that attitude. Your manners arecking, and this is supposed to be an upscale ce. Did you even get trained before they let you work?¡±


    Isabe knew Rosie would be difficult. Though Rosie did not mock her directly, she was worse than Judy and Tina, who simplyughed at her.


    Rosie was calcting and maniptive, the type who schemed behind people¡¯s backs. Isabe believed someone like Rosie could easily get her fired. Trying her best to appease, Isabe replied, ¡°I assure you, Miss Harper, I¡¯ve had all the required training. What can I get for you? I¡¯ll put the order in right away.¡± She hoped Rosie wouldn¡¯t continue to make things difficult for her.


    Judy stoppedughing, her voice taunting as she spoke. ¡°Just look at the other servers. All friendly, all smiles. And here you are, acting like you still belong in high society. Do you even know how to serve?¡±


    Tina burst out inughter, shaking her head. ¡°A so-calleddy from high society stuck waiting tables? That¡¯s just pitiful. If I were you, I¡¯d rather die than do something like this.¡±


    Judy, who hated Isabe the most, said, ¡°That attitude of yours needs work. You need to smile more and be more polite. Come on, try it.¡±


    With no way out, Isabe forced a bright smile and offered a deep bow. ¡°Good evening,dies. Wee to Just For You Restaurant. May I take your order?¡±


    Judy scoffed, unimpressed. ¡°That sounded rehearsed. Not sincere at all. I don¡¯t think you are genuinely weing us.¡±<fn2501> ???? ????s? ???????s ?? FindN()vel</fn2501>


    Isabe, still new and unseasoned, struggled to handle such tant antagonism. It was clear to any onlooker that the three women were purposefully making things difficult for her.


    ncing around, she saw her coworkers bustling about, serving tes and chatting with patrons, seemingly unaware of her plight. Even Erin Nash, who she usually got along with, acted as if she didn¡¯t notice her dilemma.


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    Biting her lip to hold back tears, Isabe looked toward the manager stationed at the kitchen doorway, who appeared to ignore the situation entirely.


    The indifference of those around her stung deeply.


    She had always been kind to them, yet when she needed support, no one stepped up. The realization fueled her frustration.


    Erin set a te down smoothly at a nearby table, saying, ¡°Enjoy your meal,¡± before heading back to the kitchen.


    As Erin passed by, Isabe gently caught her arm, her voice low and desperate. ¡°Erin, please, could you take this table for me? I¡¯m begging you.¡±


    Erin eased her hand free, offering a curt smile. ¡°Sorry, I¡¯ve got multiple tables to cover. You¡¯ll need to manage this one on your own.¡±


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 Chapter 1148

    ?Chapter 1148:


    ¡°But they¡¯re intentionally giving me a hard time,¡± Isabe whispered, hoping for an ally to shield her from her trouble.


    ¡°How are they giving you a hard time?¡± Erin replied dismissively. ¡°They just don¡¯t like your attitude. Work on that, and everything will be fine. I know you can handle it. Good service is the bare minimum here, Isabe. If you can¡¯t even do that, I doubt you¡¯ll make it through probation. Come on, try your best.¡± With that, Erin walked away.


    Isabe called after her, ¡°Erin, if you won¡¯t help, no one will. I¡¯ve always been good to you! Please help me.¡±


    But Erin kept walking, pretending not to hear her.


    Isabe stamped her foot in frustration.<fn167c> This content belongs to Find[F]ovel</fn167c>


    Rosie, Tina, and Judy smirked, clearly enjoying Isabe¡¯s struggle, waiting to see if anyone woulde to her rescue.


    Inside the kitchen, Erin vented to the manager, saying, ¡°Isabe¡¯s alwaysining about the job being messy or exhausting, and she¡¯s constantly asking me for favors.¡±


    Yesterday, I had a stomachache and asked her to cover a table for me, but she t-out refused, saying I should handle my work on my own. Now, she is in a bind and expects me to help her? No way. And 100k at her¡ªwearing high heels to serve! We¡¯re on our feet for ten thousand steps a day. Heels are a terrible choice for this job.¡±


    The manager lifted the kitchen curtain slightly, peering out to observe how Isabe was handling the troublesome customers.


    The restaurant drew a global crowd, and difficult customers were part of the daily grind. Every staff member had their own way of managing difficult situations, but if they faltered, the manager would step in.


    ¡°What did the customers say?¡± he asked.


    Erin replied, ¡°They¡¯re upset about her attitude. Honestly, I agree¡ªshees off as arrogant, like she¡¯s looking down on them.¡±


    After speaking, Erin hurried off as the sound of dishes being prepped echoed in the kitchen.


    Reluctantly, Isabe epted that this was her responsibility. She softened her tone, striving for calm respect as she repeated her earlier words.


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    Judy, catching a subtle eye-roll from Isabe, erupted in anger, eximing, ¡°What¡¯s with that attitude? Are you looking down on us? What¡¯s that eye-roll supposed to mean? I¡¯m filing aint! Someone, get me the manager!¡± Judy¡¯s outburst drew every eye in the room.


    Isabe¡¯s heart sank¡ªif aint was filed, her probation would likely end in dismissal.


    The manager approached, offering a courteous bow to the three women. ¡°Ladies, is there an issue I can assist with?¡±


    Judy said, ¡°Your employee¡¯s attitude is awful! She acts like serving us is beneath her, speaking with this superior tone and even rolling her eyes! It¡¯s outrageous!¡±


    The manager turned to Isabe, his expression stern. ¡°Apologize to the customers immediately.¡±


    Tears streaming down her face, Isabe protested, ¡°I didn¡¯t do anything wrong! They¡¯re deliberately making things difficult for me. I was already very respectful¡ªwhat more do they want?¡±


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 Chapter 1149

    ?Chapter 1149:


    Judy snapped back, ¡°See? Do you call that a good attitude?¡±


    Isabe said, ¡°They¡¯re my former friends, and we fell out recently, so they¡¯re targeting me on purpose, trying to make my life miserable. My attitude is fine, I swear!¡±


    Tina scoffed, turning to the manager. ¡°You¡¯re in charge here, right? Let me show you how she just spoke to us, and you tell me if that¡¯s eptable.¡± The manager nodded. ¡°Okay.¡±


    Tina folded her arms, tilted her chin upward in a mocking imitation of Isabe, and parroted her words with exaggerated arrogance.


    ¡°That¡¯s exactly how she acted earlier. Is that the attitude a waitress should have? Your staff clearlycks basic customer service skills.¡± Tina fumed. ¡°She looks down on us¡ªthat¡¯s why we called out her attitude. How could you even hire someone like her?¡±


    The manager bowed again. ¡°Ladies, I¡¯m deeply sorry for the experience. I apologize on her behalf and will personally handle your service. What would you like to order? I¡¯ll offer a twenty percent discount today to make this right.¡±


    Rosie caught the icy re Isabe shot her way before storming out.


    Tina and Judy, quick to move past the tension, ced their orders and handed the menu to Rosie, who picked out two dishes for herself.


    ¡°Your food will be out soon,dies.¡± The manager smiled, relieved by how pleasant the three women were now. He figured Isabe must have had a bad attitude earlier, which was why the three women had been dissatisfied. Returning to the kitchen, he found Isabe sulking in a corner, still not doing her job.


    ¡°If you think you¡¯re too good for this work, then maybe you shouldn¡¯t be here at all. You¡¯ve upset the customers. We can¡¯t have someone like that around. Leave,¡± he said, irritation in in his voice.


    Stung by his words, Isabe felt anger and shame twist inside her. She was convinced Rosie had made things difficult for her on purpose, but she couldn¡¯t find a way to fight back. Helpless, she could only swallow her feelings. ¡°Please don¡¯t fire me, I promise I¡¯ll do better. I¡¯m begging you. It took me ages tond this job, and I really don¡¯t want to lose it¡­¡±


    The manager nced at her high heels and shook his head. ¡°Stop begging. It won¡¯t change anything. If you cared about keeping your job, you wouldn¡¯t have acted that way toward the customers. You¡¯re not right for this work. Leave now.¡± No amount of pleading worked. Isabe had no choice but to collect her wages and leave.


    Nearby, Brenna, Ellie, and Greg watched the scene unfold, enjoying the drama. ¡°She got what she deserved,¡± said Greg, well aware that Isabe had bullied Brenna before.


    ?????????????????? ?????????? @ g???????¦Í????????????


    ¡°Isabe always acts like she¡¯s above everyone else, and she¡¯s so sneaky about it,¡± Brenna muttered to Ellie. ¡°She never misses a chance to benefit from others. Not long ago, she was always helping Rosie and got plenty in return. But now, Rosie¡¯s cut her off; I really want to know what went down between them.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll dig up the details for you. I can¡¯t resist a little digging,¡± Greg grinned.


    ¡°Alright,¡± Brenna replied.


    Once the food arrived, Brenna¡¯s phone buzzed with a call from Bain.


    ¡°Miss Harper, I¡¯ve found out what you wanted,¡± Bain said. ¡°L kicked Alec out because she thought he wasn¡¯t earning enough. Alec has been working under Rosie for over a month now. She got him that security position, and all this time, he¡¯s been feeding Rosie information about you and Mr. Mitchell. There¡¯s quite a lot.¡±


    ¡°Is that so? Rosie acts like she can¡¯t work with Ethan, but she¡¯s been doing this behind his back? Knowing Alec, I¡¯m sure he won¡¯t ept being kicked out. The house may be under L¡¯s name, but Alec put money into it. He won¡¯t let go of it easily,¡± Brenna said.


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    .<fncd77> ?? ??? ???? ?? ???? ???? ???????s, ????s? ??s?? f?i?n?d?n?o?v?e?l?</fncd77>

 Chapter 1150

    ?Chapter 1150:


    ¡°Exactly. Rosie has sent her people to L¡¯s ce, and they¡¯re making a scene in the neighborhood, calling her a homewrecker. L just got there, and now they¡¯re beating her, trying to force her to sign the property over. Her son and mother are caught up in it too, both getting roughed up. Rosie¡¯s people threatened to kill them all if L didn¡¯t give up the house. It¡¯s a real mess.¡±


    ¡°No wonder Alec seemed so happy today. Thank you for keeping an eye on things. Stay alert and let me know if there¡¯s any change.¡±


    With that, Brenna ended the call, ncing coldly at Rosie in the distance with a slight smile.


    This woman was a master maniptor. What did she stand to gain from nting Alec at the Mitchell Group?


    As a security guard, how much useful intel could Alec actually gather? Still, Brenna believed this was important. She immediately texted Ethan about it.


    As Brenna and Ellie left the restaurant after the meal, they spotted Isabe lingering near the curb, lookingpletely out of ce in the bustling street.


    ¡°Miss Harper!¡± Isabe darted forward to block their path, her eyes red and swollen from crying. ¡°Miss Harper, I need your help. I am desperate now.¡±


    She still nursed a grudge against Rosie¡¯s indifference. After everything she¡¯d done for Rosie, Isabe knew plenty of her secrets¡ªinformation she figured might be useful to Brenna. So, she had waited here for Brenna.


    Even though Rosie refused to work with her, she believed someone else would. She refused to believe she could not find a new ally with her intelligence. Besides, Brenna stood above Rosie in both influence and power.


    If Brenna gave her a chance, Isabe felt sure she could rebuild her life.


    Brenna studied Isabe briefly and quickly formed a n.


    ¡°Call a taxi and follow my car,¡± she said quietly, not wanting Rosie to see Isabe talking to her.


    A glimmer of hope returned to Isabe¡¯s face. ¡°Thank you, Miss Harper! I have plenty to share about Rosie!¡±


    Brenna hesitated for a second, seeing just how eager Isabe was to turn on her old boss. It struck her¡ªthis woman was willing to betray anyone for her own benefit.


    Brenna had Greg drive just far enough to lose any followers before stopping at a cozy coffee shop.


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    While Greg waited in the car, Brenna and Ellie slipped inside and chose a quiet table. It wasn¡¯t long before Isabe arrived by taxi, generously tipping the driver before joining them.


    She slid into the seat across from them, her smile eager. ¡°Miss Harper, I have plenty to say about Rosie. She¡¯s been plotting against you and the Harper Group for some time. I can answer any question you have.¡±


    Brenna didn¡¯t jump straight to the point. Instead, her lips curved with a mysterious smile as she asked, ¡°You two used to be close. Why betray her now?¡± The question seemed to strike a nerve. Isabe looked at the empty table in front of her, hesitating to speak.


    Noticing that, Ellie broke the silence, her tone icy. ¡°We already ordered you a cup of coffee and some desserts. You may as well start talking.¡±


    Augh escaped Isabe. ¡°You two are good people¡ªnothing like Rosie. She was always so cold and maniptive. When my family and I were left with nowhere to go, my father wouldn¡¯t take us in. Rosie offered us a ce, and at first, we were grateful.¡±


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    .<fnaae2> Follow current nov?ls on FindN0vel</fnaae2>

 Chapter 1151

    ?Chapter 1151:


    She rolled her eyes, her voice tinged with bitterness. ¡°But it didn¡¯t take long for us to see her real motives. She just wanted to use us. My elderly mother was put to work, too. Rosie had me cozy up to Denis, hoping to use the Wagner family to her advantage. I did as I was told and stayed with Denis for a while. Then, Judy started chasing after him, and Denis dumped me in a heartbeat.¡± After a pause, she continued, ¡°Rosie figured I could be useful elsewhere. She tried to get me involved with Luka from Summit Cable Company¡ªa man who made my skin crawl. I refused, no matter how much money she offered. So, she stopped working with me.¡±


    Brenna listened closely, unsure if Isabe was telling the whole truth but seeing no clear lies.


    ¡°So, how did Judy wind up working for Rosie?¡± Brenna asked. She had a rough idea but wanted confirmation. She knew that only mutual benefits could turn enemies into allies.


    Isabe scoffed, ¡°It¡¯s simple. Rosie had her eyes on controlling Shirie¡¯s underworld. When Jade stepped down, Denis took over the syndicate. But Denis wasn¡¯t clever enough to keep his grip on power. The number two guy staged a coup¡ªhe had Denis tied up, and he meant to blow Denis up. Judy¡¯s interest in Denis saved his life.¡±


    She looked at Brenna as she continued, ¡°Rosie had no clue Denis had betrayed her and kept using him until he messed up a job. Then, she set a trap for him¡ªgot him drunk and took some scandalous photos with women to threaten him. And Denis had no choice but to confess everything. After that, Denis had to y along with Rosie since she held leverage over him. He introduced her to Judy. Rosie manipted Judy, and now, Judy follows hermand like a puppet. Rosie runs almost all of Shirie¡¯s criminal operations.¡±


    Isabe let out a sigh, her lips pursed in frustration. ¡°If not for Rosie¡¯s influence, I wouldn¡¯t be stuck waiting tables. She¡¯s talked to so manypanies about not hiring me. Brenna, can you help me? Could I join yourpany? I studied mechanics, and I¡¯m confident I¡¯d fit right in.¡±


    Brenna had no desire to keep Isabe close. Her questionable loyalty andck of ethics made her risky to trust.


    Still, Brenna couldn¡¯t ignore Isabe¡¯s potential. She might not be a good person, but she was smart.


    ¡°Did you know your father is working as a security guard at the Mitchell Group?¡± Brenna said.


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    Isabe¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Really? I had no idea. We haven¡¯t spoken in ages. He tried to reach out a couple of times, but I always felt he was cold, so I ignored him. He ended up at the Mitchell Group? That¡¯s surprising. Did you set him up with that job?¡±


    Brenna shook her head. ¡°No, Rosie arranged that. Alec¡¯s doing well now. Rosie even helped him get his house back and sends him money regrly. He¡¯s livingfortably. I need you to get close to Alec for me. Can you do that?¡±


    Isabe did not understand Brenna¡¯s intentions and was unwilling to work for nothing.


    ¡°Brenna, I¡¯m broke. I can barely afford rent or food. How can I help you in my current situation?¡± she said.


    She was clearly asking for something in return. Brenna understood her angle.


    ¡°I own a shop at Electronics Mall. You¡¯ll be the manager there, and I¡¯ll split the profits with you.¡± Brenna quickly sent Isabe the address. ¡°It¡¯s a smart prosthetics store. You should be able to handle it. You¡¯ll receive thirteen months¡¯ pay a year, plus an annual bonus. The base sry is thirty thousand dors a month, even if there are no sales.¡±


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    .<fnd797> Original content can be found at find?novel</fnd797>

 Chapter 1152

    ?Chapter 1152:


    While the job didn¡¯tpare to the fortune Rosie had offered her before, it would solve Isabe¡¯s financial problems now.


    ¡°Will you pay me more if I get close to Alec for you?¡± Isabe asked.


    Brenna looked at Isabe with a frosty stare. The greed and anticipation in Isabe¡¯s eyes were hard to miss.


    Isabe caught Brenna¡¯s expression right away and said, ¡°Whenever I did something for Rosie, whether it was passing along information or handling a task, she always gave me a hefty reward.¡±


    ¡°If you don¡¯t want to work here, you¡¯re free to leave now. I can¡¯t promise you a lot of benefits. All I¡¯m offering is the store manager position. My products sell well, and if you put in the effort, you¡¯ll earn good money. But don¡¯t be too greedy. Rosie might have given you a lot before, but how much do you have now?¡± Brenna replied.


    Isabe bristled at Brenna¡¯s stinginess. Brenna had more money than Rosie ever did. She pulled in orders worth millions, yet she refused to give her more money.


    But for now, Isabe had no choice but to rely on Brenna.


    Thirty thousand a month wasn¡¯t exactly a fortune, but it was still better than what most people earned.


    ¡°Alright. Let¡¯s settle it like this. Mymission needs to be higher than the others,¡± Isabe said, unwilling to give in so easily.


    Brenna neither agreed nor refused. She simply stared at Isabe.


    Under Brenna¡¯s unwavering stare, Isabe grew restless. Then, she understood Brenna¡¯s intentions. ¡°What is it you want me to do? Just tell me, and I¡¯ll do my best.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s face eased a little. ¡°It¡¯s nothing too hard. I want you to patch things up with Alec. If you can, live with him. Keep an eye on what he¡¯s doing for Rosie.¡± Isabe breathed a sigh of relief. As long as Brenna didn¡¯t expect her to sleep with some old man like Rosie had, she could handle it. This task seemed easy.


    She replied, ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll do it. But I want a proper work contract. My sry and benefits need to be written down clearly. You can¡¯t just sh my pay out of nowhere. I barely make enough as it is, and if you start cutting into it, I¡¯ll have nothing left.¡±


    Brenna nodded. ¡°As long as you work hard and deliver, not only will I keep your pay steady, I¡¯ll throw in bonuses too. And even if you turn on me someday, I won¡¯t take back the bonuses I¡¯ve already given. I¡¯m better than Rosie in that regard, right?¡±


    Isabe stared at her, taken aback. ¡°How do you know all that?¡±


    ?????????? ???????? ???? ????????: ?????????¦Í????????????


    ¡°If I want to know something, I will. You don¡¯t need to know how. Just tell me every awful thing Rosie¡¯s done, and don¡¯t leave out the details.¡± A waiter arrived with coffee and desserts.


    Brenna and Ellie had just finished lunch, so neither of them touched the food.


    Isabe, on the other hand, hadn¡¯t eaten yet. She dly enjoyed the coffee and desserts, finishing half a cake and drinking a cup of coffee before telling Brenna everything.


    Meanwhile, Brenna stayed on the phone with Greg the whole time.<fn631f> Readplete version only at F?ndNovel</fn631f>


    Isabe detailed everything she had done for Rosie and everything she knew to Brenna.


    By the time she finished, evening was already closing in.


    Brenna pulled out a stack of cash from her bag and set it on the table. It wasn¡¯t much¡ªjust a small pile of bills.


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 Chapter 1153

    ?Chapter 1153:


    ¡°Take it. Report to thepany tomorrow. I¡¯ll have HR sort out your paperwork,¡± Brenna said, her face giving nothing away. She then stood and left with Ellie.<fn112c> Fresh chapters posted on Find_Novel(.</fn112c>


    Isabe quickly counted the bills. It was just 17 grand.


    ¡°So stingy,¡± she grumbled under her breath but tucked the money into her bag nheless.


    Brenna didn¡¯t head home right away. Instead, she spent more time shopping with Ellie. She picked out clothes and some jewelry to go with them, along with a few of thetest handbags.


    By the time she finally returned home, it was already past ten.


    Ernst had just gotten back as well and was eating in the dining room.


    He called out to Brenna, ¡°Care to join me?¡±


    Brenna passed her shopping bags to Julia. ¡°There are some men¡¯s clothes in there. Set them aside. They¡¯re for Ethan.¡± Julia acknowledged with a respectful nod.


    Brenna pulled two small items from her pile of shopping bags and walked over to Ernst. Then, she set them on the chair beside him. Inside were two men¡¯s ties.


    ¡°I¡¯ve already eaten. You go ahead.¡± She sat down and said, ¡°You¡¯re homete. And you didn¡¯t have dinner beforeing home.¡±


    Ernst smiled faintly. ¡°I wasn¡¯t out socializing. We had a multinational conference at thepany today. Oh, by the way, Mack showed up at the Harper Group looking for a job. The HR manager asked for my opinion, and I told them no.¡±


    Brenna raised a brow, her shock and displeasure evident. ¡°He knows I can¡¯t stand him, yet he still tried to get a job at the Harper Group. He used to hit me all the time when we were kids; he was even worse than Alec.¡±


    Ernst¡¯s brow tightened as he studied Brenna for a moment. She was stunning, with a figure that turned heads. And she wasn¡¯t Mack¡¯s real sister. Knowing Mack¡¯s nature, it wouldn¡¯t be a stretch to think he¡¯d probably tried to harass Brenna before.


    Otherwise, why would Brenna hate Mack so much?


    Ernst¡¯s face grew noticeably colder when he thought about this.


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll speak to some of my contacts. I¡¯ll make sure he struggles to find work,¡± he said.


    ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll leave that to you, Ernst,¡± Brenna replied.


    ?????????? ???????????????? ???? g???????¦Í?????????????


    Around eight in the morning, Isabe arrived at the Mitchell Group headquarters. She wore a crisp white professional outfit and carried a sleek ck handbag.


    The lobby bustled with job seekers. Each one looked eager and well-groomed, clutching resumes while quietly waiting for the elevator. Watching them, she felt an unexpected wave of joy.


    If it weren¡¯t for Brenna¡¯s help, her credentials would never have been enough to apply for a job here.


    Nearby, she noticed a young man who seemed to be in his mid-20s. He was studying his resume intently. From what she could see, he held a master¡¯s degree from a world-renowned university. Yet, even he hade to try his luck at Brenna¡¯spany.


    ¡°Isabe?¡± Alec stood there in his security uniform, patrolling the area when he spotted her. His face clouded over; he wanted nothing more than to send her away.


    ¡°Dad,¡± Isabe greeted him with careful politeness, remembering the task Brenna had given her. ¡°I¡¯m here for an interview.¡±


    She made it clear why she hade, hoping it might ease his displeasure. Still, she couldn¡¯t wrap her head around how he had epted such a drastic fall. Just a year ago, he had been the CEO of the Barrett Group. Now, he was working as just a security guard.


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 Chapter 1154

    ?Chapter 1154:


    She smiled and asked with genuine concern, ¡°Dad, how have you been? Do you need help?¡±


    Alec found her attitude toward him strange. Just a few days ago, he had gone to visit Isabe but couldn¡¯t see her. After asking around, he had discovered she no longer lived there. It had left him thinking she was going out of her way to avoid him. He was already down on his luck, and it seemed even his own daughter looked down on him.


    Frustrated, he asked, ¡°Aren¡¯t you working for Rosie? What are you doing here?¡± He hadn¡¯t heard that Rosie had thrown both Mack and Isabe out, so her presence here puzzled him.


    Isabe followed him into the small security office so they could talk more privately.


    ¡°Rosie doesn¡¯t want me anymore. Yesterday, I ran into Brenna, and she offered me a job. Thirty thousand a month, plusmission. Dad, what about you? How much do you make working here?¡± she said.


    Alec shifted ufortably. It hit him hard that she was already earning more than he did. To him, Isabe seemed a bit ungrateful, but he couldn¡¯t deny how incredibly lucky she was to havended another job so quickly.


    Why was he so unlucky?


    ¡°I don¡¯t earn as much as you. I¡¯m just a security guard,¡± he said.


    ¡°About seven thousand a month?¡± Isabe tossed out a guess. Security guards in Shirie usually brought home about five thousand, and she figured the Mitchell Group might pay a little better.


    Alec neither confirmed nor denied it. Instead, he turned the focus back on her. ¡°You only have a bachelor¡¯s degree. Thispany hires engineers with master¡¯s degrees. Why would Brenna want you to work for her?¡±


    He kept a wary eye on Isabe. Working for Brenna might put her in a position to pick up information, which could turn out to be useful for him.


    A kinder approach seemed wiser.


    ¡°Well, she took pity on me. I was staying in a shabby hotel and could barely afford food. She offered me a job as the store manager at her new store in Electronics Mall. It¡¯s not an engineering role,¡± Isabe exined.


    Alec nodded; he still cared about Isabe. She was his daughter, after all. After thinking it over, he decided not to run to Rosie with this news. What good would it do for him if his own daughter suffered?


    ?????????? ???????? ????????: g???????¦Í????????????


    ¡°That¡¯s not bad. A real job is a whole lot better than doing shady errands for Rosie,¡± he said.


    Seeing a trace of warmth in Alec¡¯s eyes, Isabe figured it was the right time to speak up. ¡°Dad, I¡¯m out of money now. I can¡¯t even afford to stay at that rundown hotel. Could I stay at your ce for a few days? Once I get my paycheck, I¡¯ll find a ce to rent.¡±


    At that very moment, she appeared particrly kind¡ªalmost like the sweet, obedient daughter she used to be.


    Alec felt for her. ¡°Okay. My home is your home. What about your brother? I went to thepany looking for him a few days ago but couldn¡¯t find him.¡±


    ¡°Rosie doesn¡¯t want him, either. He¡¯s out there hunting for a job and a ce to stay. Dad, Rosie¡¯s not a good person. When we were still useful to her, she treated us well enough, handing us money from time to time. But when we were no longer useful, she abandoned us and even took back the money she¡¯d given us. How can anyone do something like that? Taking back money that was already handed out? It was over ten million¡­¡±


    .<fna298> ???s ??????? ?s ?????? ?? find?novel</fna298>


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 Chapter 1155

    ?Chapter 1155:


    As Isabe poured out her frustrations, Alec felt something tighten in his chest. A silent warning went off in his mind. Rosie wasn¡¯t someone to trust. If he ever stopped being useful to her, he might end up just like Isabe.


    It was best to keep his guard up.


    ¡°Come on up. Brenna¡¯s on the 58th floor,¡± he said.


    ¡°Thank you, Dad. You¡¯re still the best. I¡¯m sorry for how I treated you before. Also, Mom¡¯s with me now. She¡¯s making a living by washing dishes at a restaurant. Could I bring her to stay with you?¡±


    Alec¡¯s expression turned cold in an instant. ¡°No. You and your brother can stay at my ce, but not your mother.¡±


    ¡°Dad, she¡¯s really pitiful. If she stays, she can cook and clean for us. That mighte in handy.¡±


    ¡°No!¡± Alec¡¯s voice thundered. ¡°You think I¡¯m a pushover just because I let you stay in my ce? Be grateful you have a roof over your head. If you weren¡¯t my daughter, I¡¯d leave you to fend for yourself. Let¡¯s be honest¡ªyour mother is cold as ice, and whatever hardshipes her way, she¡¯s earned it. When I reached out to you and your mother for help before, what did you do? Tossed me aside without a second thought. Don¡¯t think I¡¯ve forgotten your mother¡¯s curses, either. She called me a freeloader and told me to drop dead. Take her in? Not a chance in this lifetime!¡±


    Alec red at Isabe, his anger fueled by every bitter memory of Ruby¡¯s cruelty.


    ¡°Then what should she do?¡± Isabe asked, her worry shining through. ¡°I can¡¯t rent a ce only for her. It would be a waste of money.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no way I¡¯m taking her in! If money¡¯s tight, maybe you should rent a ce with her instead. Don¡¯te running to me,¡± Alec said firmly.


    Disappointment flickered across Isabe¡¯s face. Hoping to change his mind, she tried a different approach. ¡°Alright, if that¡¯s how it¡¯s going to be, I¡¯ll go stay with Mom. I won¡¯t just abandon her. Still, Dad, you¡¯re not getting any younger, and someone should be around for you. If we all lived together, we could take care of you. Why can¡¯t you just let it happen?¡±


    ¡°I already said no!¡± Alec said, folding his arms. ¡°Women like L and Ruby only stuck around when I was doing well. The moment I lost everything, they turned on me. I¡¯m done putting up with them.¡±


    ¡°Then you can live alone! I¡¯m leaving.¡± Isabe¡¯s words hung in the air before she stormed out, already thinking about getting an apartment near Alec¡¯s ce just to keep tabs on him.


    ????????????¡¯?? ????????: ?????????¦Í?????????????<fnd5df> Original content can be found at find(?)ovel</fnd5df>


    She waited outside for a while, but Alec didn¡¯t follow her out. It was clear how much he hated Ruby.


    Isabe was left with no choice but to head to Brenna¡¯s office to sign the contract.


    The lobby was packed, and the elevator crawled its way up. By the time Isabe reached the fifty-eighth floor, she saw a crowd outside the manager¡¯s office, everyone waiting for a shot at an interview.


    Isabe felt a sense of superiority. Even though their qualifications were better than hers, she didn¡¯t have to wait in line or interview¡ªshe could go straight to signing the contract.


    She knocked on the CEO¡¯s office door, but there was no response.


    While she stood there, Lorna appeared carrying a basin of water. ¡°Ms. Harper doesn¡¯te in until nine. If you¡¯re here for an interview, the line¡¯s over there. She doesn¡¯t handle interviews herself,¡± she said politely.


    ¡°Actually, I¡¯m Isabe Barrett, Brenna¡¯s sister.¡± With that, Isabe moved aside from the door, hoping to win over Lorna with a friendly smile.


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 Chapter 1156

    ?Chapter 1156:<fn0a69> For original chapters go to Find1Novel</fn0a69>


    Lorna looked doubtful. ¡°Sister? If you want a job here, get in line with the others. Don¡¯t think you can just lie to get past that.¡±


    ¡°I guess you really don¡¯t recognize me,¡± said Isabe, holding back her annoyance at Lorna¡¯s bluntness. ¡°Brenna grew up with the Barrett family. I was her sister then.¡±


    Realization dawned on Lorna as she gave Isabe a curious look. ¡°Oh, I see. Did you make an appointment to see Ms. Harper?¡±


    Isabe nodded gently and smiled. ¡°I did. She told me toe by today so we could sign the contract.¡±


    Without furtherment, Lorna swung open the office door. ¡°Go on in and have a seat. She¡¯ll be here soon.¡±


    Before long, Brenna arrived, and Lorna appeared once more, this time carrying an employment contract for them both to review and sign.


    After signing, Brenna said to Isabe, ¡°You¡¯ll have the title of store manager, but that¡¯s where your authority ends. The team doesn¡¯t report to you. There¡¯s another manager for the actual operations. You¡¯ll be paid like a manager, but your tasks are no different from the rest of the staff. Make sure you understand that.¡±


    The realization hit Isabe hard. She had not expected this. ¡°That¡¯s not fair! You told me I¡¯d be managing the store. How can you go back on your word?¡±


    ¡°I haven¡¯t broken any promises. Your title is manager, but with no subordinates. The real manager is someone with real experience in running a store and leading a team. I can¡¯t risk thepany¡¯s reputation. If you want real responsibility, prove you deserve it. Don¡¯te to me withints or demands until then.¡± Brenna remained calm, her words crisp and final.


    Disappointment colored Isabe¡¯s face as she met Brenna¡¯s eyes. ¡°We were family once. Isn¡¯t that worth anything?¡±


    Before she could finish, Brenna¡¯s voice cut through her plea. ¡°I only bring in people who can actually do the job. You¡¯re the exception, Isabe. You¡¯re here because of your connections; I¡¯ve already done you a favor. Without me, you wouldn¡¯t even have this job.¡±


    Lorna noticed the tension and stepped forward promptly. ¡°Miss Barrett, let me show you out.¡±


    Isabe, frustrated with no outlet for her anger, felt that Brenna was bullying her, but she had no means to fight back, not even the right to argue.


    ???????? ?????? ???????? ???? g???????¦Í??????©o?????


    She found herself alone in the elevator, muttering under her breath, ¡°This is so humiliating.¡±


    On the ny-ninth floor, Gracie lingered outside Ethan¡¯s office, her patience thinning. The clock read half past nine, and there was still no sign of Ethan. Convinced he might skip work today, Gracie was ready to give up and leave when the elevator doors finally slid open to reveal Ethan.


    Marching over, Gracie asked, ¡°Why haven¡¯t you been hometely? I¡¯ve waited for you every single day.¡±


    Ethan regarded Gracie with a detached look. Her makeup was impable, and her attire made her look striking. He quickly averted his gaze and stepped into his office.


    Gracie trailed behind him. ¡°Ethan, answer me. Are you avoiding me? Is that why you have been staying away from home?¡±


    Ethan settled into his desk chair. ¡°The mice in your house are gone, and the damaged furniture has been reced. It¡¯s time for you to return to your own home.¡±


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 Chapter 1157

    ?Chapter 1157:


    Gracie¡¯s expression was troubled. ¡°So you are avoiding me, Ethan. I don¡¯t want to go back. My ce feels hollow. I¡¯m there by myself, with no one to talk to. I¡¯m scared of that loneliness. Your house is massive¡ªmultiple floors, countless empty rooms. Me staying in one wouldn¡¯t inconvenience you. If it¡¯s really a problem, I can even pay you rent.¡±


    Ethan shook his head. ¡°You don¡¯t have to pay me. If you want to stay, fine. My mom is alone and gets bored easily. She¡¯s busy looking after Belen, leaving home early anding backte. Your presence would keep herpany.¡±


    Gracie¡¯s face lit up. ¡°I knew you would let me stay. You¡¯re so kind, Ethan. When are youing home?¡±


    ¡°I own several properties. If you like that house, stay there with my mom. I¡¯ll live somewhere else,¡± Ethan replied, his tone t.


    Gracie¡¯s expression crumpled, her voice tinged with hurt. ¡°Are you still trying to avoid me? Does my presence really bother you that much?¡±


    Ethan¡¯s face hardened as he spoke firmly. ¡°I have a girlfriend, and I¡¯m deeplymitted to her. You need to respect boundaries and keep your distance instead of shamelessly staying at my house.¡±


    Gracie stared at him, stunned by the sting of his words.


    ¡°Ethan, I¡¯ve told you, and I¡¯ve told Miss Harper, too. As long as you are not married, I have every right to pursue you. How can you say something so cruel like that to me?¡±


    Ethan¡¯s gaze was icy. ¡°You can pursue me if you want, but not by moving into my home without any sense of shame.¡±


    After a pause, he called Neville over and asked him, ¡°When is the meeting?¡±


    Neville responded promptly, ¡°It starts in two minutes.¡±


    He then handed Ethan a file. ¡°Here¡¯s the agenda. It¡¯s about the drone project, focusing on design features. Production is the next phase.¡±


    Ethan stood and left for the conference room with Neville, leaving Gracie behind.


    She stood there, agitation swirling within her. Returning to her office, she lingered by the floor-to-ceiling window, staring at the cityscape, lost in thought. Ethan¡¯s attitude toward her had grown so cold that he barely wanted to speak with her anymore. Whenever they spoke, they argued.


    She thought back to a decade ago, when Ethan had beenunching his business. He used to smile warmly at her, seeking her input on everything. But now, he had be so distant. What had changed?


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    Was it because the Wilson Group had copsed? Was it because she was no longer the daughter of a prominent family? Did Ethan look down on her now?


    She believed that was part of the reason, but the real issue was Brenna.


    Determined, Gracie headed to the fifty-eighth floor.


    The area buzzed with job applicants, the crowd resembling a hectic swarm.


    She marched straight into Brenna¡¯s office.


    Brenna was engrossed in sketching on a blueprint, seemingly oblivious to Gracie¡¯s arrival.


    Lorna stepped in front of Gracie and bluntly asked her to leave, saying, ¡°Miss Harper is working. Please leave.¡±


    ¡°I have something to discuss with her. Who are you to block me?¡± Gracie snapped, her face darkening.


    Brenna turned to look at her, her tone cool. ¡°What do you want?¡±


    .


    .<fn3765> The source of th?s content is find[f]ovel</fn3765>


    .

 Chapter 1158

    ?Chapter 1158:


    Lorna remained in ce, poised to usher Gracie out at Brenna¡¯smand. Noticing Lorna¡¯s refusal to leave, Gracie felt her temper re. ¡°Why is she still standing here?¡±


    Brenna stood her ground, unwavering. ¡°Speak your piece or get out.¡±


    Gracie scoffed, pulling back her scornful stare. ¡°We agreed I could pursue Ethan. So why is he pushing me away? Why hasn¡¯t he been hometely?¡± Brenna found the questions immature and absurd. ¡°If someone doesn¡¯t want you, it¡¯s because you¡¯re not charming enough. Instead of reflecting on yourself, you¡¯re making a scene here? You must be out of your mind.¡±


    Gracie¡¯s anger boiled over. ¡°How dare you speak to me like this? So rude. I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve been badmouthing me to Ethan, and that¡¯s why he¡¯s acting this way. Tell me what you said, or don¡¯t me me for being harsh.¡±


    ¡°Get out.¡± Brenna could not be bothered with such nonsense.<fn4e4b> ???s ??????? ?s ?????? ?? findnovel</fn4e4b>


    Lorna stepped closer. ¡°Miss Wilson, you need to leave.¡±


    Gracie held her ground, convinced Brenna¡¯s demeanor betrayed guilt. If she hadn¡¯t done anything wrong, why would she dodge the question?


    ¡°You must have been badmouthing me to Ethan. Brenna, you¡¯re a horrible person.¡±


    Standing her ground, Gracie refused to budge, firing off question after question with an arrogant attitude.


    Without missing a beat, Lorna pulled out her phone and called for backup. Two engineers showed up and ushered Gracie out the door, ignoring her protests. Annoyance finally cracked Brenna¡¯s calm exterior. ¡°Head up to the ny-ninth floor and get to the bottom of why Gracie came here to make a scene,¡± she instructed, barely hiding her irritation. Gracie¡¯s outburst had yed out in full view of a line of job seekers, and thepany¡¯s reputation had taken a hit.


    Lorna gave a crisp nod. ¡°Of course, Miss Harper.¡± She left to follow orders.


    Half an hourter, Lorna returned to Brenna¡¯s office.


    ¡°Here¡¯s what I learned,¡± said Lorna, her voice steady and eyes serious. ¡°Gracie imed she discovered rats in her house earlier this week, so she packed up and moved into Mr. Mitchell¡¯s ce. Mr. Mitchell stayed at a different property these past few days, and this morning, Gracie showed up demanding to know why he hadn¡¯te home. He wasn¡¯t exactly polite to her, so she stormed over here to make a scene.¡±


    Brenna listened, not bothering to hide her disdain. ¡°She just invited herself to live at someone else¡¯s house? All because of so-called rats?¡±


    Lorna confirmed with a quick nod. ¡°That¡¯s what she told everyone. Rex went to check out Gracie¡¯s ce with a crew. They found three hamsters, not rats. He thinks Gracie put them in her ce on purpose. Even after they had removed the hamsters, changed all the furniture, and sanitized the ce, she still refused to go back home.¡±


    ???????? ???????? ???? ???? ????????????????: g????????¦Í????????????


    After a pause, she continued, ¡°Mr. Mitchell has been living elsewhere these days. He¡¯d avoided his own home at Bayview Apartments for days, just to get some peace.¡±


    A mischievous glint shed in Brenna¡¯s eyes. She picked up her phone and dialed Greg. ¡°Go out and catch some rats for me. The bigger, the better. And get as many as you can.¡±


    That was enough to send Lorna into a fit ofughter. ¡°Perfect! That¡¯s what she deserves!¡±


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 Chapter 1159

    ?Chapter 1159:


    Brenna joined in, her chuckle sly. ¡°Pick up some women¡¯s clothes, too, nothing fancy, just whatever you find. We¡¯ll need them forter. We¡­¡±


    Leaning in, Lorna caught the rest of Brenna¡¯s n and nodded, ready to carry out every detail. ¡°Got it, I¡¯ll take care of everything. I¡¯m just a little worried about all the job applicants milling around outside. I need to help interview them.¡±


    Confidence radiated from Brenna as she waved away the concern. ¡°Don¡¯t stress. Just go.¡± A knowing smirk curled her lips. ¡°Does Gracie think I¡¯m someone she can push around? She¡¯ll learn there are consequences for picking a fight with me.¡±<fnebbb> Fresh chapters posted on find?novel</fnebbb>


    Morning slipped away as Brenna worked straight through until noon. When her stomach finally growled, she made her way down to the cafeteria.


    Noise and chatter filled the space. Brenna immediately spotted Ethan at a table. The others dared not sit close to him. Judging by the scowl on his face, he was in a bad mood.


    Directly across from him sat Gracie, apparently unfazed by the tension.


    ¡°Hey, Brenna!¡± Ethan¡¯s voice cut through the mor. He lifted a hand and waved her over.


    Making her way to the table, Brenna noticed he¡¯d already set out lunch for her.


    Hostility burned in Gracie¡¯s eyes as she sized up Brenna. ¡°I¡¯m having lunch with Ethan. Isn¡¯t it a bit inappropriate for you to join us, Miss Harper?¡±


    Rising from his seat, Ethan gathered up both tes of food. Then, he and Brenna moved to another table.


    Disbelief twisted Gracie¡¯s expression. ¡°Ethan, you misunderstood. I only wanted her to leave, not you.¡±


    Determined not to be left out, she snatched up the bowls of chicken soup and followed after them. A sly nce at Brenna¡¯s pristine white suit gave her an idea. Suddenly, she faked a stumble, angling the soup toward Brenna.


    But with a single quick step, Brenna swiftly stepped aside.


    Hot soup sttered across an empty chair, missing Brenna entirely.


    Flustered, Gracie stammered, shock shing across her face. She had not expected Brenna to react so fast, and her n fizzled before it even began.


    She wanted to try again, but the bowls were empty.


    ?????????????????? ??????????????: g??????¦Í??????©q?????


    Brenna said to her coolly, ¡°I am having lunch with Ethan. Is it a bit inappropriate for you to join us?¡±


    Ethan silently observed the sticky mess on the chair. He said nothing to Gracie, only picked up the tes and switched to yet another table.


    Without hesitation, Brenna followed him.


    Stunned and humiliated, Gracie remained rooted in ce for a moment. She then shamelessly followed again, but Ethan stated coldly, ¡°Stop following us. I want to have lunch with my girlfriend.¡±


    Desperation tinged Gracie¡¯s words. ¡°Ethan, don¡¯t be so cold. I¡¯m your business partner. I¡¯ve known you longer than she has. We should be closer, don¡¯t you think?¡±


    Ethan didn¡¯t soften. ¡°I only want to have lunch with my girlfriend.¡±


    His tone left no room for argument. Gracie could feel the stares of everyone nearby, and the humiliation stung.


    No appetite left, Gracie spun around and hurried out of the cafeteria, tears threatening to fall.


    Ethan sat down and scanned the table. He then signaled Neville over with a raised hand.


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 Chapter 1160

    ?Chapter 1160:


    ¡°We could use a few more dishes,¡± he said, his tone casual.


    At that moment, Brenna¡¯s phone vibrated. Lorna¡¯s message shed on the screen, nothing more than an OK emoji.


    Less than ten minutester, as Ethan and Brenna were chatting over their meal, Ethan¡¯s phone rang. It was Gracie calling.


    Without a second thought, he declined the call. Gracie was undoubtedly trying to persuade him to spend time with her again, but he would notply.


    The ny-ninth floor was inplete chaos, with women¡¯s screams echoing throughout the CEO¡¯s office area.<fn7468> The source of th?s content is F?ndNovel</fn7468>


    The Mitchell Group¡¯s headquarters were housed in a square building with an intricate interioryout. Ethan¡¯s office upied most of this floor, along with several meeting rooms, the offices of three vice presidents, Gracie¡¯s office, and the secretary¡¯s area.


    Ethan ascended in the elevator, and soon, the doors opened to reveal arge brown rat scurrying in. Reacting quickly, Ethan stepped on the rat¡¯s tail, immobilizing it.


    Pinned and desperate, the rat thrashed wildly beneath Ethan¡¯s shoe, ws scraping at the floor.


    Neville, who was apanying Ethan, was startled and instinctively said, ¡°How could there be a rat here?¡±


    ¡°Catch it and get rid of it,¡± Ethan ordered, perplexed by the sudden appearance of such arge rat in the Mitchell Group building, which had been rodent-free for years.


    Neville pulled out a pack of tissues from his pocket, attempting to wrap up the rat with them. However, the rat was too aggressive to be contained, so he abandoned the tissues and grabbed it with his bare hand, throwing it forcefully to the floor.


    Neville¡¯s grip and powerful throw left the rat sprawled out and barely moving. When he saw the rat still twitching, he picked it up again and mmed it against the floor two more times, making sure it waspletely dead. Ethan stepped out of the elevator and saw chaos taking over the entire floor. A few of the women had climbed onto desks or chairs, clutching each other in fright, while others shrieked as rats darted across the floor.


    Some of the men rushed after the rats, either stomping at them or trying to catch them under trash bins, but these rodents were far too quick and slippery for anyone to catch.


    Ethan¡¯s brow furrowed as he tried to make sense of the sudden swarm of rats. In the short time he had been standing there, he had already seen five particrly big ones.


    ???????????? ???? ?????? ???????? ¡ú g???????¦Í???????????????


    Each of them was muchrger than any rat he had seen before.


    Neville tossed the lifeless rat into the trash and knotted the garbage bag tightly shut.


    ¡°Help!¡± A scream for help echoed from Gracie¡¯s office.


    Ethan made his way past the secretaries¡¯ desks and headed into Gracie¡¯s office, where she stood bnced on her desk, ring in terror at arge rat that was squeaking up at her from the floor.


    ¡°Ethan, please help me!¡±


    Neville walked in after Ethan and gave a crooked smile. ¡°There were never rats in the building before. It¡¯s funny how they started showing up after Miss Wilson arrived.¡±


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 Chapter 1161

    ?Chapter 1161:


    ¡°Enough! Just catch that rat already!¡± Ethan snapped, unable to begin figuring out how so many rats had suddenly invaded the ce.


    Ethan and Neville hurried after the fastest rat in the group. It slipped under a desk, managed to avoid them, and dashed straight toward the break room. Both men raced behind it, though by the time they reached the break room, the rat had disappeared from sight.


    Underneath the break room cabs, there were plenty of spaces where a rat could easily hide.<fn753b> The rightful source is find?novel</fn753b>


    Neville pointed toward the doorway and eximed, ¡°There it goes!¡±


    They kept after the rat as it scampered back into the restroom. The two men ran in after it. Inside the restroom, many small stalls created even more ces for a rat to slip away. They opened each stall and checked inside, but the rat was already gone.


    After finishing their search, they returned to the main office. By then, things outside had grown quiet. Rex, along with two of the other male secretaries, had managed to catch one rat and finish it off, but the rest of the group hadn¡¯t caught a single one.


    Rex stepped forward and said to Ethan, ¡°Boss, I¡¯m not sure what caused this sudden rat invasion, but maybe we ought to bring in a few cats.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s expression tightened. ¡°Okay. Bring the cats here quickly. There are a lot of wires in this building, and if rats start chewing through them, the repairs will be difficult and take a long time.¡±


    Gracie rushed over, her face still pale. ¡°Why are there rats here? I am terrified of them.¡±


    This time, the fear on Gracie¡¯s face was genuine. She realized there was a huge difference between seeing a few pet hamsters and spotting several oversized rats.


    All at once, Gracie said, ¡°Ethan, I just remembered that I promised Elsa I would go visit Belen. I really have to leave now.¡±


    Gracie decided she would note back until everyst rat had been caught. Ethan said nothing as he looked her way. He did not like the idea of Gracie visiting Belen. He knew her illness had nothing to do with Gracie, and it seemed like she only wanted an excuse to get close to his family by going to the hospital.


    That bothered him more than he could admit.


    Without waiting for Ethan to reply, Gracie headed for the exit.


    ?????????????? ????????????: ????????¦Í??????©q??????


    Meanwhile, on the fifty-eighth floor, Brenna listened as Lorna described everything that had happened on the ny-ninth.


    ¡°Gracie walked into her office and found a bunch of huge rats. She was so scared; I thought she might pass out. I watched as one of those rats ran right over her foot. She jumped. It was so funny. Honestly, I haven¡¯tughed that hard in ages!¡±


    Inside the CEO¡¯s office, Neville and Rex stood before Ethan¡¯s desk.


    Rex handed Ethan several shopping bags. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, Lorna brought these on behalf of Miss Harper. She said Miss Harper went shopping yesterday and picked these out for you.¡±


    Ethan inspected the clothes without much expression. The styles were elegant, and the fabric was clearly high-end. As Brenna had mentioned during their meal, she had purchased them and arranged for Lorna to deliver them to his office.


    ¡°Has there been any report of mice here before?¡± Ethan asked.


    Neville responded, ¡°No, no one in the office or the group chat has said anything about mice in the past.¡±


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 Chapter 1162

    ?Chapter 1162:


    Rex said, ¡°We should check the security cameras. Even if there were mice, having a dozen of them all appear in Gracie¡¯s office seems absurd.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s brow furrowed in irritation. He had a strong suspicion that someone who held a grudge against Gracie had deliberately nted the mice in her office.


    But he had no clue who the culprit might be.


    ¡°Check the security footage,¡± he said.


    Rex returned within two minutes, his expression tense. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, the surveince system on the 99th floor has been breached. Someone hacked it.¡±


    Ethan looked at him, stunned. ¡°When did this happen? Why wasn¡¯t it reported? What about the other floors?¡±


    Rex shook his head. ¡°I¡¯m not sure. The secretary¡¯s department manages the 99th floor surveince. Everything appeared normal before the person monitoring the footage, Alex, went to lunch. When he got back, he discovered the system had beenpromised. He is contacting IT now. Strangely enough, only the 99th floor was affected, while surveince on all other floors is functioning normally.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s frustration deepened. ¡°Our surveince system is top-of-the-line, with highly advanced security protocols. Not even elite hackers can get through. Who pulled this off? Check all departments immediately to ensure no projects have beenpromised.¡±


    Without hesitation, Rex and Neville rushed off to coordinate data security checks across every department.


    Ethan stood by the expansive window, a cigarette between his fingers, lost in thought. Who would go so far as to hack the surveince system on the ny-ninth floor just to put a few mice in Gracie¡¯s office?


    The other floors had been left untouched. Could this really be just about mice? Who would invest so much effort in something so petty?


    Momentster, Rex and Neville returned. Neville reported to Ethan, saying, ¡°Mr. Mitchell, we have found no signs of breaches in any otherpany systems. All ounts and financials remain secure.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s frustration deepened. ¡°Find out who is behind this. Rex, when are the cats arriving?¡±


    Rex nced at his watch. ¡°In about an hour. I sent four people to get them.¡±


    ???????????????? ??????????????: ??????????¦Í????????????


    Isabepleted her onboarding and began her first shift that afternoon at the store in Electronics Mall.


    The work environment was weing. The store had recently undergone renovations, and all the new hires were still getting familiar with the products andyout.


    Isabe got along well with her coworkers.


    After wrapping up her shift at six in the evening, she headed straight to Alec¡¯s ce by bus.


    Ruby was busy washing dishes at a bustling restaurant during the dinner rush. She wouldn¡¯t finish her shift until eleven. On the way, Isabe stopped at a nearby market to pick up some fresh ingredients and nned to cook dinner.


    As Isabe stepped inside, she took note of the spotless home, modern appliances, and neatly arranged furniture. The ce was also clean.


    By eight, dinner was ready, and Alec came back home.


    Seeing the warm meal waiting for him, Alec quietly appreciated the presence of a woman in the house. At least now, he didn¡¯t have to cook for himself.


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 Chapter 1163

    ?Chapter 1163:


    ¡°Dad, you must be tired. Go wash up and eat,¡± Isabe said gently.


    Over dinner, Isabe cautiously brought up the matter of letting Ruby and Mack stay here with them.


    ¡°Dad, have you considered the idea? You left Mom when the bankruptcy happened, andter, she refused to take you back. Since you both hurt each other, you are now even. Isn¡¯t it time for you to let the past go and be a family again?¡±


    Alec stayed silent, his expression unreadable. Still, he realized that L had proven to be unreliable and even heartless. In contrast, Ruby had always been the better partner.


    Now that L¡¯s family had been driven out of Shirie, he doubted they would ever return.


    He was getting older, and he knew that eventually, he would need someone to care for him. If he allowed his children to move back in but continued to shut Ruby out, they would undoubtedly be unhappy about it. So, he said nothing.


    Isabe studied his expression. ¡°I¡¯ll give Mom this address. She can move in, leave her job at the restaurant, and take care of the house for you, doing chores and cooking meals.¡± Alec remained silent.


    Taking hisck of objection as approval, Isabe pulled out her phone and called Ruby on the spot.


    After the meal, Isabe took the initiative to wash the dishes.


    Meanwhile, Alec sat in the living room,pletely engrossed in his phone.


    Choosing a bedroom for herself in the apartment fell to Isabe, who found herself wandering through nearly 2,000 square feet and five bedrooms. Alec had already imed the master bedroom for himself.


    Of the four remaining rooms, Isabe picked the biggest one for her mother, set aside another for herself, and decided to let Mack choose between thest two.


    Later that night, just after her shower, Isabe caught the sound of Alec¡¯s low voice drifting from his bedroom. Curiosity piqued, she crept toward his door and listened in.


    ¡°Miss Harper, I wanted to inform you¡ªmy daughter, ex-wife, and son are moving in with me. I¡¯ve already agreed. Isabe is in the shower as we speak. Earlier, she had an interview at Brenna¡¯spany, and I saw her sign the contract. Brenna¡¯s paying her thirty thousand a month.¡±


    Each detail Isabe overheard fueled her frustration. She couldn¡¯t say for certain who Miss Harper was, but since Brenna had told her that Alec was now working for Rosie, she believed he must be talking to Rosie right now. She was of no use to Rosie anymore, and once she lost her value, Rosie tossed her aside like garbage. Rosie was nothing but trouble.


    ???????? ?????????? ???? g??????¦Í????????????


    Eventually, Alec would end up just like her, with nothing left¡ªnot even his savings.


    For all his years running apany, how could Alec be so careless? Handing Rosie every scrap of information?


    Anger bubbled up inside Isabe.


    Isabe continued eavesdropping at the door, realizing Alec was aplete sycophant, revealing everything he knew. He even mentioned the rat problem at the Mitchell Group headquarters and Brenna hiring engineers.


    For someone in business so long, Alec was rmingly naive.


    It amazed Isabe how the Barrett Group had ever managed to make it onto the stock exchange.


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    .<fn9a48> Updates are released by F¦Énd£Îovel</fn9a48>

 Chapter 1164

    ?Chapter 1164:


    About thirty minutester, a knock at the door forced her to abandon her spot outside Alec¡¯s room. Ruby and Mack arrived together, stepping inside. Alec emerged from his bedroom, shooting a frosty look in Ruby¡¯s direction. ¡°I¡¯ve already exined it to you.¡±


    ¡°Isabe, you can¡¯t freeload here. If you want to stay, you¡¯ll earn your keep¡ªcooking, cleaning,undry, every bit of housework.¡± Ruby didn¡¯t bother to hide her irritation. ¡°No need to remind me what you want, Alec, I know exactly what to expect.¡±


    Mack tried to cut through the tension, his voice gentle. ¡°Mom, Dad, could you both just stop arguing? We finally have a roof over our heads together. Can we at least try to talk like a family?¡±


    Isabe couldn¡¯t stay silent any longer; she had to warn Alec about Rosie. Without dancing around the issue, she asked, ¡°Dad, was that Rosie you were on the phone with just now?¡±


    Fury shed in Alec¡¯s eyes. ¡°You little spy! Eavesdropping on my calls now?¡±


    She owned up to it without flinching. ¡°I did. But honestly, Dad, after all these years, don¡¯t you realize how maniptive some people are? You just spilled every detail about us to her. That was foolish!¡±


    Alec¡¯s temper snapped, his voice sharp. ¡°What do you know, Isabe? If it weren¡¯t for Miss Harper, we¡¯d have had no ce to live now! You should be grateful for what she¡¯s done for us!¡±


    Ruby and Mack exchanged a long look¡ªneither disagreed with Isabe¡¯s warning.<fnbb5a> Newest update provided by Find~Novel</fnbb5a>


    With zero hesitation, Ruby said, ¡°Alec, do you have any idea how we ended up broke and working jobs no one else wanted?¡±


    Alec gave a dismissive snort. ¡°Isn¡¯t it because you¡¯re all ipetent? Messing things up and making Miss Harper angry?¡±


    Fury zed in Ruby¡¯s eyes. ¡°That¡¯s not true, and you know it! Isabe is talented¡ªthere¡¯s nothing she can¡¯t do. But Rosie, with all her schemes, tried to force our daughter into sleeping with some old man. When Isabe refused, Rosie snatched back everything she¡¯d ever given us and made sure no one would hire any of us. We had to take whatever work we could find just to survive. She maniptes everyone around her. Keep helping her, and you¡¯ll wind up worse off than me.¡±


    Backing her up, Mack said, ¡°Exactly, Dad. Rosie¡¯s the one who ruined us. Think about it¡ªwhat¡¯s going to happen if she finds out we¡¯re here?¡±


    Alec only shrugged, unbothered. ¡°Doesn¡¯t matter to me. I have food, a roof over my head, and a bed. That¡¯s enough. None of you helped me when I hit rock bottom. Remember? I¡¯ve already been kind enough to let you stay here. I will not concern myself with anything else.¡±


    ???????????? ????????: ?????????¦Í????????©q??????


    Isabe couldn¡¯t hide her frustration. ¡°You really think you¡¯re more clever than us? Rosie¡¯s nothing but trouble. Please, stop telling her everything.¡±


    Alec was defiant. ¡°Don¡¯t act like Brenna is any different. You work for her, and she¡¯s just as bad as Rosie. The Harper family has always brought us misery; don¡¯t forget how our family went bankrupt in the first ce.¡±


    Isabe¡¯s patience finally snapped. ¡°Brenna might not be perfect, but she¡¯s better than Rosie. From now on, you¡¯re not to say a word to Rosie about us. If she kicks you out and you end up on the street, don¡¯t expect any help from us.¡±


    Reluctant though he was to admit it, Alec had to concede that Isabe made a good point. After what happened to Isabe and Ruby, he had no reason to trust Rosie.


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 Chapter 1165

    ?Chapter 1165:


    ¡°You should be careful as well. Brenna¡¯s not exactly a good person, either. I¡¯ve been around the Mitchell Group long enough, but she¡¯s never done me any favors,¡± said Alec, letting out a sigh.


    The following morning, Isabe rose early to get ready for her shift. She found Ruby in the kitchen, having already prepared breakfast.


    While they ate, Mack leaned forward and asked Isabe, ¡°How did you get Brenna to give you a job?¡±


    With a scoff and a roll of her eyes, Isabe replied, her distaste for Rosie obvious, ¡°Yesterday, while I was at work, Brenna went out for lunch and ran into Rosie. That¡¯s how it started¡­¡±


    Sheid out the entire incident in detail.


    Mack took a moment to reflect. ¡°You know, Brenna called me her brother for years. I used to look out for her all the time. If she were hungry, I¡¯d share my meals with her. Now, she¡¯s a big shot, running her ownpany. If I asked for a management spot in herpany, do you think she¡¯d give it to me?¡±


    Alec dismissed the idea with a shake of his head. ¡°Forget it. She doesn¡¯t care about anyone other than herself. If she did, we wouldn¡¯t be in this situation.¡±


    ¡°Why not give it a shot? We¡¯ve been through enough already. Maybe she¡¯s ready to let the past go,¡± Mack said, sounding hopeful.


    Still, he was not too optimistic; he remembered his recent trip to the Harper Group¡ªtrying to use his old connection with Brenna had only gotten him thrown out.


    On her way to work, Brenna sat in the car, listening to Greg vividly describe how L¡¯s family had been beaten and driven out of Shirie. Just then, her phone buzzed with a message.


    It came from Isabe.


    ¡°Mack ising to see you. He¡¯s hoping you¡¯ll find him a job.¡± Brenna sent back a short reply.


    ¡°Got it.¡±


    As Brenna stepped into the office, she immediately noticed yesterday¡¯s group of sessful applicants already assembled and waiting for their new roles. Her arrival caused a ripple of excitement, and the group quickly gathered around her.


    For this round of hiring, Brenna had brought in a sizable team¡ªone hundred and fifty engineers. The group included seasoned professionals in their thirties and forties, along with recent graduates holding master¡¯s degrees. There were both men and women among them, each one carefully chosen for their expertise.


    ?????? ?????????????? @ ?????????¦Í??????©o?????


    ¡°Good morning, Miss Harper!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s an honor to see you, Miss Harper.¡± A chorus of greetings rang out.


    Brenna addressed the new hires with a friendly nod, saying, ¡°I want to wee you all to thepany. We are growing fast and have plenty of projects lined up. If you¡¯re willing to put in the work, you¡¯ll find this a rewarding ce to be.¡± She gave a short speech and then added, ¡°Please wait here for a moment. Manager Leo Carter will be here soon to give you your assignments. If anything¡¯s unclear, don¡¯t hesitate to ask him.¡±


    Out of nowhere, a white cat appeared and brushed itself against Brenna¡¯s ankle. She knelt to scoop up the cat, her face softening as she cradled it. ¡°And where did youe from, little one?¡±


    Lorna walked over with an update. ¡°Miss Harper, there was a rat problem on the 99th floor yesterday. Quite a few big ones got loose, so Mr. Mitchell arranged for over a hundred cats to be brought in as a solution. Looks like this one wandered off and ended up here.¡± The cat was fluffy and absolutely adorable.


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 Chapter 1166

    ?Chapter 1166:


    After spending a moment ying with it, Brenna handed the cat back to Lorna.


    ¡°Make sure it gets something to eat,¡± she said.


    Momentster, Brenna¡¯s phone buzzed with a call from the front desk. Reception let her know that Mack had arrived and was asking to see her.


    Brenna told them to send him up.


    Mack soon made his way into Brenna¡¯s office.


    He had gone out of his way to look sharp for the asion.


    ¡°You¡¯ve set yourself up here, Brenna. I couldn¡¯t help but notice the crowd outside¡ªwhat, about five hundred employees now? Just how much does yourpany pull in every month?¡± Mack spoke casually, treating Brenna not as a CEO but as the young girl the Barrett family had once taken advantage of.


    Brenna offered no immediate reply. She simply watched as Mack roamed about, inspecting her office at his leisure.<fn7abf> Official source is fin?novel</fn7abf>


    Mack continued, ¡°Word is, you¡¯ve done well for yourself. You¡¯vended some big contracts recently, and I heard your profits are up. You even managed to take some resources from Denis. Clearly, you are skilled. With all this growth, wouldn¡¯t it make¡­¡±


    ¡°Sense to bring in someone you know to handle affairs for you?¡± Brenna¡¯s tone remained even and cool. ¡°We just finished hiring. Every position is filled.¡±


    Realizing she wasn¡¯t going to make this easy, Mack tried a gentler approach. ¡°You remember I used to be the vice president of the Barrett Group. Why not let me help you out? You gave Isabe a job; surely you can do the same for me. Think back to when you were a child at the Barrett house. Our parents never let you eat enough, but I¡¯d sneak you food. I always looked out for you. You should feel grateful toward me.¡±


    Mack reminded Brenna of his past kindness toward her.


    Brenna sat quietly for a moment, weighing his words. ¡°So, you really believe you were kind to me before?¡±


    With a low chuckle, Mack replied, ¡°Absolutely. I wasn¡¯t like Alec or Ruby. They were harsh and used you, but I always tried to protect you.¡±


    Brenna fixed her gaze on Mack, wondering how he could carry himself with such superiority in front of her. He oozed arrogance, as though he believed she owed him something. It felt as if she were the one asking for his support, not the other way around.


    ?????????? ?????????? ????????: g???????¦Í????????????


    ¡°So, am I right about that?¡± Mack lifted his chin and released a heavy sigh. ¡°You never would have made it in the Barrett family¡¯s household without me. My parents would have drained you dry.¡±


    After a pause, he asked, ¡°Remember what life was like when you lived with us?¡± Brenna nodded, recalling each detail. ¡°I do. Alec forced me to keep sketching. Whenever I could note up with a new design, he would refuse to let me eat. If he thought my work was dissatisfactory, he would beat me. He refused to let me attend school, all so I could work and earn him more money. I remember all of it. Ruby never made me design, but that did not mean she was any kinder. When money ran low, she turned me into the family maid. I was the one who cooked, cleaned, and did all the housework.¡±


    ¡°See, you remember. Out of everyone, I was the only one who never forced you to do anything.¡± Mack tried to make himself sound like Brenna¡¯s protector.


    Brenna wore a faint smile. ¡°Maybe you did not force me to do anything. But every time your grades slipped and your parents scolded you, you took it out on me. I have not forgotten the way you used to hit me with a hanger until I bled. No matter how much I begged, you did not stop. My tears just made you angrier. Even when your parents saw you hitting me, neither one of them stepped in to help.¡±


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 Chapter 1167

    ?Chapter 1167:


    A nervousugh slipped out of Mack. ¡°That is not true. I have never hit you. I always looked out for you. When you were hungry, I gave you food in secret.¡± He would not admit that he had hit her before. He knew confessing would ruin any shot at getting hired.


    It was impossible for him to understand why Isabe hadnded a job that paid thirty thousand a month while he was not even offered an interview. The sarcasm in Brenna¡¯s voice left no doubt¡ªshe had no intention of giving him a job.


    He grew anxious.


    ¡°Brenna, let us just forget what happened in the past. I swear I will treat you well from now on.¡± Falling to his knees, Mack pleaded, ¡°Please. I just need a job. Hit me if you want; yell at me if you have to. I will not fight back.¡± He loathed begging, but after¡­


    Spending weeks going from onepany to another and being rejected from every position, Mack was out of options.


    Brenna was his only hope.


    ¡°You really do not remember things well,¡± Brenna said as she straightened and stepped closer, looking down at him. ¡°So now you are on your knees? I expected you to ask like a grown man. I cannot use someone who acts like this.¡± With cold dismissal, Brenna added, ¡°Get out.¡±


    Instantly, Mack panicked and began striking his own face. ¡°I am nothing but garbage. Less than a person. You are a kind person, Brenna. Please do not hold grudges against me. Punish me however you want.¡±


    Every insult was followed by a p, each one more violent than thest.


    Cheeks burning and desperate, he reached for her wrist, begging, ¡°Hit me all you want. Just give me a job, and I will take whatever you dish out. Please¡­¡±


    Brenna slipped her hand free, arching an eyebrow. ¡°So, I can hit you however I like?¡±


    ¡°Yes. If it helps you feel better, I will not protest,¡± Mack answered, convinced that she would go easy on him. He remembered all those years Brenna had stayed quiet and never fought back in the Barrett family, so he doubted she had it in her to actually hurt him.


    Without another word, Brenna crossed the room, pulled a phone charging cable from her bag, gave it a gentle tug, and chuckled softly. ¡°Then I will not hold back.¡±<fn5ac1> Chapters first released on Find_Novel(.</fn5ac1>


    Mack went rigid. She actually meant it. The thought of that cableshing his skin was terrifying.


    ???????????? ???????????? ??????: g???????¦Í????????????


    With a practiced flick, she struck his cheek using the cable, leaving a vivid red line.


    Mack cried out, ¡°That hurts! You really hit me, Brenna¡­¡±


    Automatically, he raised his hand to block her attack, only for the cord to hit his hand.


    ¡°Ouch! I know I was wrong before, Brenna. Just forgive me, please¡­¡± Mack decided it would be worth it if getting a beating wouldnd him a job. In his mind, he could always get back at her in the future.


    Brenna did not let up, and each swing of the cablended harder than the one before. In the end, Mack¡¯s shirt was left in tatters.


    Never in his wildest dreams had Mack imagined Brenna had that kind of power to hit him like this, leaving him writhing on the floor.


    Lorna crouched by the door, straining to catch every word from the chaos inside the CEO¡¯s office, ready to rush in if Brenna gave the signal.


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 Chapter 1168

    ?Chapter 1168:


    The veteran staff gathered nearby, ears trained on the drama, while the new hires stayed glued to their desks, secretly listening in, with work being thest thing on their minds.


    Each time Mack cried out in pain, everyone outside winced. From the sound of it, Brenna was showing no mercy at all.


    Tommy exchanged nces with Lorna, neither of them wanting to intervene. Tommy even found the situation amusing.


    ¡°Get out!¡± Brenna snapped, her expression twisted with disgust as she looked at Mack.


    Unwilling to give up, Mack grabbed onto Brenna¡¯s dress. ¡°I¡¯m begging you to give me a job, please! Yourpany¡¯s massive, and you¡¯ve brought on so many new people; surely there¡¯s a ce for me. I swear I¡¯ll work harder than anyone. I¡¯ve got management experience, and I can handle a supervisor job. Don¡¯t just toss me aside after beating me!¡±


    Brenna kicked him aside. ¡°Get out!¡±


    She followed up with another hard strike using a thick cable. This time, Mack didn¡¯t cry out in pain.


    He shot Brenna a venomous re, his voice low and cold. ¡°You¡¯re cruel. Ipletely misjudged you, Brenna. You¡¯ll regret this.¡±


    Staggering to his feet, he limped out, only to find the crowd outside quickly scattering.


    All that remained were Lorna and Tommy.<fnadfa> Chapters first released on Find~Novel</fnadfa>


    Everyone shot Mack nces, taking in the blood on his face and his torn clothes. His hunched posture and pitiful state made it clear just how badly he¡¯d been beaten.


    The staff exchanged confused looks. Brenna always seemed kind; why would she beat Mack up like this?


    Clearly, Mack had done something bad to her.


    Everyone silently memorized Mack¡¯s face, resolving to steer clear of him and never offer him any help.


    Lorna stepped into the office, immediately noticing Brenna¡¯s dark mood and the bloodied cable gripped in her hand.


    ???????????????? ??????????????: ?????????¦Í??????©q?????


    ¡°Miss Harper, do you still need this cable?¡± she asked.


    Brenna didn¡¯t hesitate, tossing it over. ¡°No, get rid of it.¡±


    Tommy spoke up from the doorway. ¡°I¡¯ll let security know. If Mack shows his face here again, he¡¯ll get beaten up.¡±


    Mack shuffled out of the elevator, looking utterly disheveled, his head down and his clothes a mess.


    Lost in his own thoughts, he nearly bumped into someone in the hallway; only a quick sidestep saved them from a full-on collision.


    ¡°You¡¯re honestly a sorry sight,¡± Rosie said as she burst outughing, unable to help herself. Watching Mack now, she almost felt she¡¯d been too soft on him before.


    When Mack looked up and saw Rosie, he red at her. ¡°It¡¯s none of your business!¡±


    He gave a dismissive snort and hurried to walk away, well aware that sticking around would only bring more trouble to himself.


    Rosie watched him leave with a satisfied grin. ¡°Tell me, do you think Brenna is a good person? She¡¯s even more ruthless than I am. Your family went bankrupt because of her; do you know that?¡±


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 Chapter 1169

    ?Chapter 1169:


    Mack stopped in his tracks and looked back at Rosie. He¡¯d always thought the stories about Brenna taking down his family business were a lie. He had believed Brenna seemed far too gentle for that. But after what happened today, he realized just how wrong he¡¯d been.


    One thing was certain¡ªhe wouldn¡¯t forget what the Harper family had done to him and his family.


    Lorna entered Brenna¡¯s office with a ss of water. ¡°Miss Harper, Rosie¡¯s here.¡±


    Rosie didn¡¯t wait for an invitation. She walked right in and took the seat opposite Brenna as if she owned the ce.


    ¡°Bring a cup of coffee here,¡± Brenna instructed Lorna, her face unreadable. Lorna shot Rosie a look, finding her behavior arrogant and rude.


    ¡°I just don¡¯t get why you¡¯re willing to give Isabe a job. After everything the Barrett family did to you, and Isabe¡¯s not exactly a good person herself, you¡¯re still willing to hire her?¡± Rosie asked Brenna, wasting no time getting to the point.


    She¡¯d heard about the news from Alec and couldn¡¯t wrap her head around Brenna¡¯s decision. After getting no reply from her message to Brenna, she had decided to drop by in person.


    Brenna answered with a sharp edge, ¡°Is it any of your business?¡±


    Rosie let out a coldugh, not surprised by Brenna¡¯s attitude. ¡°It¡¯s not, really, but I am curious. The Barrett family has put you through hell, Isabe included. I thought you wouldn¡¯t let her off so easily, yet you gave her a cushy job. Makes me wonder if you¡¯ve got another n in mind.¡±


    Crossing her legs, Rosie added, ¡°Don¡¯t underestimate Isabe; she¡¯s more cunning than the rest of the Barrett family, and she never lets grudges go. I just hope you won¡¯t be betrayed by her in the future.¡±


    ¡°Your concern is duly noted. If you¡¯re done talking, you can see yourself out.¡± Brenna¡¯s icy tone left no doubt that Rosie was not wee here.


    Rosie wasn¡¯t offended. She knew Brenna barely tolerated her, but she also knew Brenna couldn¡¯t resist a good business opportunity.


    ¡°I heard you¡¯re working on a robotics project. Plieca hasn¡¯t tapped into that market yet. When your first batch is ready, Maxley and I want to be your first buyers,¡± she said.


    Brenna barely reacted. Orders wereing in left and right. She didn¡¯t need the extra business.


    ???????? ???????????? ????????: ??????????¦Í?????????????


    She replied, ¡°If you¡¯re interested in purchasing, just submit an order. My team will handle the rest and follow the standard procedures.¡±


    Just then, her phone rang. She added, ¡°I¡¯ve got work to do. You should leave.¡±


    Rosie refused to leave, insisting she was serious about cing an order, not just making empty talk.


    Brenna, rolling her eyes, stepped to the window to take a call, keeping her voice low so Rosie wouldn¡¯t overhear. ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡± she asked.


    On the other end of the line, Darwin was smiling. ¡°Want to y tennis after work?¡±


    Anticipating her reluctance, he quickly added, ¡°I had an online meeting with Hector yesterday. We talked about the Mitchell Group.¡±


    Brenna let out a softugh. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll see you after work, and you can tell me what exactly you two discussed.¡±


    Darwin chuckled. ¡°Let¡¯s hope no uninvited guests show up this time.¡±


    Brenna gave a short reply and hung up, returning to Rosie to discuss the order.<fna9de> Readplete version only at find[f]ovel</fna9de>


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 Chapter 1170

    Chapter 1170:


    ¡°I want to invest in your robotics project. I believe in its potential,¡± Rosie dered firmly, pointing out that nopany worldwide had cracked the robotics market yet. She had seen Brenna¡¯s robots highlighted online and realized their potential.


    Brenna replied, ¡°We¡¯re fully funded right now. We don¡¯t need more investors.¡±


    Rosie raised an eyebrow, skeptical. ¡°That¡¯s nonsense. Who says no to more money? More investors mean shared risks and mutual gains. Plus, with Maxley¡¯s and my connections in Plieca and Opril, I could open doors to new markets for you. You might not like me, but turning down funding is irrational.¡±


    While Brenna wouldn¡¯t usually reject money, she had no interest in letting Rosie be a shareholder in herpany.


    ¡°You can ce an order for the robots, but I¡¯m passing on the investment. Who knows what you¡¯re scheming?¡± Brenna said.


    Rosie stood, shooting Brenna a sharp look. ¡°Why do you always think the worst of me? I genuinely see promise in your work.¡±


    Brenna remained unmoved, her expression cool. Rosie left without finalizing an order.


    After work, as Brenna exited the building, she spotted Darwin at the entrance holding a massive bouquet of roses and a shopping bag with the logo of a luxury skincare brand.


    Employees passing by cast envious nces.


    Brenna gave Darwin a resigned look as she approached. ¡°You¡¯re being way too obvious. People will talk. If Ethan hears about this, he won¡¯t be pleased with you.¡±


    Darwin handed her the flowers and the shopping bag. ¡°I pulled some strings to get this skincare product for you. It¡¯s top-notch.¡±


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Brenna said, calmly inspecting the gifts. The roses were beautiful, their scent instantly lifting her spirits.


    Alec, watching from the steps, walked over. ¡°Brenna, aren¡¯t you dating Mr. Mitchell? How can you ept flowers from another guy right outside the Mitchell Group building? Mr. Mitchell will find out about this in no time.¡±


    ¡°Mind your own business,¡± Brenna replied icily, sliding into Darwin¡¯s car.


    Alec quickly dialed Rosie, reporting what he had seen and sending her a sneaky photo he had taken of Brenna and Darwin.


    ???????? ???????????? ?????????? ????: g???????¦Í????????????


    To avoid Ethan, Darwin steered clear of the tennis club they had gone tost time, opting instead for one with better facilities and more privacy. He and Brenna yed severalpetitive matches, followed by some solo practice.


    During the game, Darwin did not mention anything about Hector.


    Around seven, he said to Brenna, ¡°Tired? There¡¯s a great restaurant nearby. Let¡¯s grab dinner, and I¡¯ll fill you in on Hector.¡±


    Brenna was in no hurry. The exercise had left her cheeks slightly flushed, enhancing her allure.<fn297a> Follow current nov?ls on F?ndNovel</fn297a>


    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s talk over dinner,¡± she replied.


    As they headed out, her phone buzzed with a call from Ethan.


    ¡°Have dinner with me tonight?¡± Ethan asked.


    The noisy chatter in the background suggested he was out socializing. Brenna said, ¡°No, I¡¯ve already got ns. Let¡¯s have dinner tomorrow instead.¡± She hung up without a flicker of emotion, suspecting Ethan knew she was with Darwin and was just testing her.


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    Message from Noah: Have a great week dear readers, new chapters this friday and new novels tomorrow. God loves you and Noah wishes you all the best. ????(? ?? ? ¨C ? ) ?


    .

 Chapter 1171

    ?Chapter 1171:


    She believed he might be upset and wanted to send him a text, but after some thought, she chose not to exin things to him.


    At the restaurant, the ambiance was inviting, with soft, intimate lighting and a secluded feel¡ªideal for a romantic evening.


    Darwin suggested a couple¡¯s set menu. Once seated, he finally brought up Hector.


    ¡°The recent dips in the Mitchell Group¡¯s stock were Hector¡¯s doing. Ethan¡¯s influence in Norview is massive, and with his drone project gaining traction, his influence is only growing. Hector can¡¯t stand it.¡±


    Brenna nodded. ¡°Ethan mentioned that. I checked the Mitchell Group¡¯s Norview branch¡¯s annual report¡ªthe growth is remarkable. With the drone project, they could soon be among Norview¡¯s top five most influentialpanies.¡±


    Darwin smiled. ¡°It¡¯s not surprising. Norview is home to numerous powerfulpanies. However, Hector has a deep-seated grudge against Ethan and is determined to undermine him. He has enlisted mypany¡¯s help to target Ethan here. Despite Ethan navigating this obstacle, Hector has more schemes nned against him.¡±


    Brenna, amused by Hector¡¯s obsession, boldly inquired, ¡°Could he be doing this because his former spouse, Gracie, shares an ambiguous rtionship with Ethan?¡±


    A low chuckle escaped Darwin. ¡°That¡¯s only part of the story. Ethan actually has business in Norview that puts him in directpetition with Hector. Has he ever brought it up to you?¡±


    Brenna shook her head. ¡°I never get into the details of his business affairs¡ªthey aren¡¯t my concern. I have a hunch that Rosie¡¯s tangled up in this, too. Tell me, am I onto something?¡±


    Approval shone in Darwin¡¯s eyes as he nodded. ¡°You really are sharp. That¡¯s right. Hector¡¯s also got Clive and Judy fully on his side. The Mendoza siblings would never run the Shirie underworld without his support.¡±


    A faint smile crept onto Brenna¡¯s lips. ¡°It hasn¡¯t escaped my notice that Rosie and Judy have be nearly inseparable. I figured there was more going on. By the way, aren¡¯t you afraid that giving me all this information could get you in trouble with your boss?¡±<fne970> For original chapters go to find?novel</fne970>


    With a carefree grin, Darwin waved off the concern. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. We¡¯re just swapping some useful facts. None of this is top secret anyway.¡± He put more food onto Brenna¡¯s te with care.


    She epted without protest, and their conversation drifted on until Darwin steered it in a new direction. ¡°The Mitchell Group¡¯s stocks have made quite a turnaround recently. My boss said that a mastermind¡¯s been pulling the strings. Could that be you?¡±


    ????????????¡¯?? ??????????????: g???????¦Í?????????????


    Brenna¡¯sughter filled the room. ¡°You caught me. Your boss really does pay attention. If there¡¯s ever a chance, I¡¯d like to work with him one day.¡±


    When dinner came to an end, Darwin insisted on driving Brenna home. Flowers and a shopping bag in hand, Brenna returned. Julia met her at the door, immediately reaching for the things she was holding. ¡°Miss Harper, are these from Mr. Mitchell? Should I put the flowers in your room?¡±


    A single indifferent nce was all Brenna spared for thevish bouquet. Had Darwin not offered her such useful information, both the roses and the luxury skincare set would have gone straight into the trash.


    She decided to keep them only because she found Darwin quite agreeable.


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 Chapter 1172

    ?Chapter 1172:


    ¡°You may have the flowers,¡± she said to Julia. ¡°They¡¯ll only clutter up my space.¡± The shopping bag drew Julia¡¯s attention next.


    ¡°And what about this?¡± Brenna said, ¡°You can also have it.¡±


    Years spent in service to the Harper family had taught Julia to recognize luxury. One look told her the skincare items in the bag cost as much as her annual sry.


    Gratitude spilled from Julia¡¯s lips. ¡°Thank you so much, Miss Harper.¡±


    Brenna retreated to her room, took a long shower, and then dialed Ethan for a video call to share what she had uncovered.


    Rather than being impressed, Ethan looked displeased. ¡°I¡¯d rather you didn¡¯t see Darwin again. It makes me jealous.¡±<fnab5a> Chapters first released on find?novel</fnab5a>


    Brenna rolled her eyes. ¡°I¡¯m just dating you, Ethan. That doesn¡¯t mean I have to cut off the rest of the world.¡±


    Ethan still felt upset. ¡°He¡¯s not just anyone. He is a potential suitor introduced by your mom. Knowing you spend time with him makes me unhappy.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s useful,¡± Brenna replied, her voice turning cold.


    Ethan found her attitude hard to swallow. Though he bit back a retort, he still felt frustrated.


    Brenna, unbothered by his brooding, finished her update and ended the call, refusing to let him dwell on the topic.


    The next afternoon after work, Brenna went to visit Joann. It had been two days since she had seen Joann, and she was unsure if her condition had improved.


    At the hospital, she opened the door to find Ruby and Mack seated at Joann¡¯s bedside, with Gia quietly tending to things nearby.


    A frown shadowed Joann¡¯s face, her mood written inly for all to see.


    Warmth colored Ruby¡¯s greeting as she epted the fruit and supplements from Brenna. ¡°You are here, Brenna! Joann was just talking about you, saying you are a wonderful person.¡±


    One look was all Brenna gave Ruby. Years spent in the Barrett household had left her used to Ruby¡¯s sharp tongue and endless criticisms. Even after Brenna moved back to the Harper family, Ruby still carried herself as if Brenna owed her.


    Politeness from Ruby was rare, so Brenna¡¯s lips quirked up slightly in curiosity. She wondered what Ruby was up to this time.


    ?????????? ???? ?????? ????????????: g???????¦Í????????????


    Still, Brenna did not engage with Ruby and sat by Joann¡¯s bedside to inquire about her health.


    ¡°How have you been feeling thesest two days?¡±


    Joann wasted no time sharing her difort, saying, ¡°Honestly, I¡¯m much better, Brenna. There¡¯s really nothing wrong with me anymore. I want to go home. Staying in this hospital day after day is making me frustrated.¡±


    Brenna said, ¡°That¡¯s not an option yet. The doctor wants you here at least another week to make sure your condition is stable. Try to hang in there a little longer. Once you¡¯re off the IV, maybe Gia can take you out for some fresh air downstairs.¡±


    Meanwhile, Mack¡¯s attention never strayed from Brenna.


    Scars still marred his face, giving him a pitiful look. Yet, he stared at Brenna with a mixture of resentment and bitterness.


    Once Brenna¡¯s chat with Joann ended, Ruby seized the chance to say, ¡°Brenna, how could you have beaten your brother up like that? It¡¯s already bad enough that you refused to give him a job, but hitting him? We raised you, and you haven¡¯t repaid us yet. How could you be so cruel to him?¡±


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 Chapter 1173

    ?Chapter 1173:


    Brenna ignored Ruby. She knew how much she had earned for the Barrett family, and yet, they still had the audacity to think that she owed them for raising her.


    She knew she owed them nothing. The only person she felt indebted to was Joann.


    Brenna stole a nce toward Joann, expecting her to intervene and speak up for Ruby and Mack.


    Yet, Joann remained resolutely silent, her face growing darker as she fixed Ruby with a fierce, pointed re, repeatedly clearing her throat as though sending a pointed reminder.


    Ruby caught Joann¡¯s stern look and immediately stopped talking.


    Brenna had been puzzled about the power dynamic between Joann and Ruby initially, but now, she understood. Apparently, Ruby was under Joann¡¯s control. Knowing that, Brenna felt relieved. She stayed in the room briefly, then quietly exited.


    As she was leaving, she exchanged a nce with the caregiver, Gia, who followed her out.


    ¡°Gia, how has my grandmother been doingtely?¡± Brenna asked.


    Gia responded with a smile. ¡°Her appetite is good, and her mood has improved dramatically. Her heart condition is stable, too. She alwayspliments the food you asked people to bring. Her daughter-inw and grandson are visiting her; they are terribly inconsiderate, bringing her nothing at all.¡±


    Gia¡¯s tone became noticeably agitated. ¡°You wouldn¡¯t believe their behavior. From the moment they stepped in, they treated her disrespectfully, speaking as though she were their servant.¡±


    ¡°What exactly did they say?¡± Brenna¡¯s heart sank. She knew Ruby and Mack were bad people. During her time around the Barrett household, she¡¯d witnessed countless confrontations between Ruby and Joann. Joann¡¯s patience and keen wit were the only things that had kept Ruby from driving her madpletely.


    Concern for Joann began to grow within Brenna.


    Gia replied, ¡°Ruby keptining about the medical expenses, saying that the money spent daily couldst her months. Then, she asked about your grandmother¡¯s meals. When I told her, can you guess her response? She shamelessly said that someone her age shouldn¡¯t be eating sovishly¡ªit was wasteful, she imed. She demanded that your grandmother ask you to give her the money directly, and she could manage the meals. Now I see exactly why you insist on sending food to your grandmother daily. That family is truly appalling, even trying to profit from your grandmother¡¯s meals.¡± Gia sighed heavily, clearly disgusted by Alec¡¯s and Ruby¡¯s behavior.


    Brenna felt indignation building inside her. ¡°They¡¯ll never change. Did Ruby say anything else?¡±


    ¡°She even tried to push your grandmother into asking you for a job for her son. Your grandmother refused outright, rebuking her sharply and warning that she¡¯d have her son throw her out if she continued with such ridiculous requests. That finally shut Ruby up. Your grandmother¡¯s resolve and cleverness really showed.¡± Gia paused, shaking her head. ¡°When things looked like they might get physical, I stepped in firmly to protect your grandmother, giving them a stern warning. Thankfully, that made them behave.¡±


    ???????? ?????????????? ????????: ?????????¦Í??????©q??????


    Brenna nodded appreciatively, pulling out some money she¡¯d prepared earlier.


    ¡°Please contact me immediately if there¡¯s ever a problem.¡±


    She then handed Gia the money. ¡°These are bonuses for you and the other caregiver. I appreciate everything you do.¡±<fn089e> This text is hosted at F¦Énd£Îovel</fn089e>


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 Chapter 1174

    ?Chapter 1174:


    Gia epted the money gratefully; she believed it was at least ten thousand. Her eyes lit up with genuine joy. Such generosity was typical of wealthy people, and it motivated her to take even better care of Joann.


    She said, ¡°Thank you. I¡¯ll take excellent care of your grandmother. Earlier, when Ruby caused a scene, I stepped in firmly to defend your grandmother.¡±


    Brenna offered Gia a warm smile, appreciative of her actions. ¡°Thanks. If Ruby or anyone else tries anything, continue to support Joann. I¡¯ll back you up if trouble arises.¡±


    ¡°Brenna!¡± Just then, Bess called, running over. ¡°I saw you heading to the hospital earlier and followed you. I am so d I caught up with you!¡±


    Seeing this, Gia tactfully excused herself. ¡°I should return to the hospital room now.¡±


    Acknowledging Gia with a nod, Brenna turned to Bess. ¡°Is Belen doing better?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s fine, though she¡¯s eager to leave the hospital.¡± Bess chuckled. ¡°Say, Brenna, could I meet Dalton today?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s lips curled into a gentle smile. ¡°Certainly. He¡¯s home today.¡±


    Bess was overjoyed, almost bouncing with enthusiasm. ¡°Then can I tag along to your ce to see him?¡±


    After a pause, she quickly added, ¡°I just want to chat with him, nothing intrusive, I swear!¡±<fn370f> Th?s chapter is updated by fin?novel</fn370f>


    Brenna struggled to see the appeal Dalton held for others. ustomed to seeing him daily, she felt his charm or celebrity allure no longer fazed her. To her, he was just an ordinary person.


    ¡°Of course,¡± Brenna responded. ¡°I¡¯m on my way home anyway. You¡¯re wee to tag along.¡±


    She had a soft spot for Bess, who¡¯d always been kind and supportive to her, unlike Elsa. Whenever conflicts arose with Elsa, Bess often sided with her, making her more inclined to grant small favors like this.


    ¡°Perfect! I¡¯ll just grab my bag quickly,¡± Bess said, leading Brenna toward the elevator. ¡°Oh, my grandmother misses you. Want to stop by her hospital room before we leave?¡±


    ¡°Of course, I haven¡¯t seen Belen in a few days. Let¡¯s go,¡± Brenna said.


    ?????????? ???????????? ????????: ????????¦Í????????????


    As Brenna stepped into the hospital room, she noticed Elsa and Gracie chatting cheerfully with Belen. When Belen saw Brenna, her face lit up with a smile.


    Meanwhile, Elsa¡¯s and Gracie¡¯s smiles disappeared.


    ¡°Why are you here?¡± Elsa said to Brenna with clear irritation.


    A stern look from Belen silenced Elsa at once. ¡°Hold your tongue and mind your manners,¡± she scolded from her bed.


    Unbothered by the tension, Brenna approached the bed with a warm smile. ¡°You look well, Belen.¡±


    Seeing Brenna lit up Belen¡¯s spirits. ¡°I have noints. My appetite is good, and I sleep through the night. All I want now is to see you and Ethan tie the knot. Ethan never stops talking about you, you know. It¡¯s rare for him¡ªhe¡¯s usually so reserved, but you¡¯ve clearly won him over. He truly loves you.¡±


    Rolling her eyes at her mother¡¯s words, Elsa stepped between them, blocking Belen¡¯s view of Brenna and wanting to cut off their conversation.


    A flicker of annoyance crossed Belen¡¯s face. ¡°Move aside, Elsa. I¡¯d like to speak to Brenna,¡± she said.


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 Chapter 1175

    ?Chapter 1175:


    ¡°Mom, it is time for you to take your medicine,¡± Elsa said.


    Bess couldn¡¯t hide her irritation at Elsa¡¯s antics. After all, she was the one who had invited Brenna here. ¡°Elsa,e here for a minute. I have something to discuss with you.¡±


    Elsa took her words seriously, thinking Bess had something important to say, and walked over.


    With a perfectly straight face, Bess lied, ¡°The doctor said we need to settle the bill. I don¡¯t have money on me right now. Would you take care of it?¡±


    Elsa didn¡¯t hesitate. ¡°Of course. Your grandmother¡¯s health is most important. I¡¯ll go pay right now.¡±


    Grabbing her purse and phone, she hurried out of the room.


    A sly smile crept across Bess¡¯ face as she nced at Brenna, pleased that her little n had worked.


    In fact, Brenna did not have much to say to Belen. After some brief pleasantries, she left.


    Gracie followed Brenna out and called after her, ¡°Wait a moment.¡±


    Brenna stopped, turning to Gracie. ¡°Do you have something to say to me?¡±


    Suspicion colored Gracie¡¯s voice as she confronted Brenna, saying, ¡°Were you the one who let those mice loose in my office?¡±


    Brenna couldn¡¯t help but chuckle. ¡°Seriously? Why would I waste my time on childish tricks like that? Don¡¯t you think I have better things to do?¡±


    Hands tightening into fists, Gracie shot Brenna a re full of usation. ¡°If you didn¡¯t do it, then who else could have done that? You are the only one in thepany who dislikes me. I can¡¯t think of anyone else.¡±


    Each word seemed to wind her up further, the memory of the mice making her dread returning to her office.


    Two days had passed since she¡¯dst gone to thepany to see Ethan. And Elsa¡¯s calls to get him home had been ignored.


    Brenna had no patience for baseless finger-pointing. ¡°If you¡¯re convinced it was me, then prove it. Otherwise, I have better things to do than stand here arguing with you pointlessly.¡±


    With that, she turned on her heel and strode away, not bothering to look back.


    ?????????? ????????????: g??????¦Í?????????????


    Irritation boiling over, Gracie chased after her, saying, ¡°Did you tell Ethan not to go home? He hasn¡¯t set foot in his home for days. His mother misses him.¡±


    A cold, dismissive nce was all Brenna spared her. ¡°Ethan¡¯s a grown man¡ªhe doesn¡¯t answer to me. Maybe he just doesn¡¯t want to see you. If you moved out, he might go home.¡±


    Just then, Bess also stepped out of the room and said, ¡°Some people are just so shameless. Even when they are clearly unwanted, they still refuse to leave and keep hanging around other people¡¯s homes, foolishly believing this will make them part of the family. The harder they hang on, the less wee they be.¡±


    Brenna stepped into the elevator, Bess quietly slipping in at her side.


    Gracie stood outside the elevator doors. ¡°What do you mean by that?¡±


    Bess crossed her arms and leveled a direct stare at her. ¡°Maybe if you stopped ming everyone else for your own failures, you wouldn¡¯t look so desperate. If I were in your shoes, I¡¯d move out of Ethan¡¯s home with my dignity intact before he stopped speaking to me altogether.¡±


    A stunned look washed over Gracie. ¡°Bess, why are you taking Brenna¡¯s side? I¡¯ve always treated you well. I even gave you presents.¡±


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    .<fn1e0c> ?????? ???? Find_Novel(.</fn1e0c>

 Chapter 1176

    ?Chapter 1176:


    ¡°Those gifts will be back in your hands tomorrow. I never wanted them in the first ce.¡±


    With that, Bess pressed the elevator¡¯s close button, clearly finished with the conversation.


    The doors slid shut. Inside, Bess turned to Brenna with an exasperated sigh. ¡°I¡¯ve never met someone so shameless like her. She refuses to leave Ethan¡¯s home, thinking that¡¯ll win him over. She¡¯s delusional if she believes that¡¯s going to work!¡±


    She could tell that Brenna was very annoyed with Gracie, so she reassured her, ¡°Do not worry, Brenna. I will help you get rid of her. Honestly, her nerve is unbelievable. You know, she confided in me once¡ªimed Elsa is rooting for her to marry Ethan. As if Elsa¡¯s empty words actually meant anything!¡±<fn6534> Th?s chapter is updated by f¦É¦Ídn¦Ïvel</fn6534>


    After a pause, she continued, ¡°She likes to think of herself as smart, but she can¡¯t see that Elsa is just fooling her. When the truth finally hits her, she¡¯ll turn on Elsa in a heartbeat. Elsa is just using her and likes being praised by her.¡±


    Agreement flickered in Brenna¡¯s eyes as she said, ¡°You¡¯re right¡ªI¡¯ve picked up on that as well. Elsa is drawn to anyone who tters her ego and can¡¯t stand those who don¡¯t. Since that one time I identally crossed her, she has been holding a grudge against me.¡±


    Bess shook her head with a knowing smile. ¡°Just ignore her. Reaching out to her or saying sorry will only make her more arrogant. Everyone in our family is aware of her spiteful streak, so we¡¯ve learned not to give her attention.¡±


    ¡°Look at this ce! I have never seen a home so charming. Tell me, Brenna, is this a mansion?¡± Bess beamed, her gaze sweeping over the Harper family¡¯s lush garden. The fountain sparkled at the front, and flowerbeds lined the path, all so carefully tended. The whole yard stretched out, wide and full of life. ¡°This feels just like a secret garden. I have only been to Ethan¡¯s ce once, but your home is every bit as stunning.¡±


    Bess took another step and grinned. She kept talking as she wandered, admiring every corner.


    Brenna walked beside her, pointing out the flowers and shrubs, telling her the names.


    As they entered the house, Giselle returned from outside, carrying several shopping bags. ¡°Brenna, I saw some new bags at the Tior counter, so I got a few for you. I also got you some lipsticks. Try them when you have time.¡±


    Those gifts brought a bright smile to Brenna¡¯s face, and she hugged Giselle with genuine affection. ¡°Thank you so much, Mom. I love you.¡±


    ?????????? ???????? ????????: g???????¦Í??????©o?????


    Spotting a new face in casual clothes, Giselle turned to Bess and asked, ¡°And who might this be?¡±


    Straightening her posture, Bess answered with a burst of confidence, ¡°Hello, Mrs. Harper. You look so young and stunning! My name is Bess, and I¡¯m Ethan¡¯s cousin.¡±


    With a sheepish grin, she admitted, ¡°I¡¯m actually a huge fan of Dalton. I am here to see him.¡±


    Knowing Brenna rarely invited people over unless they were close to her, Giselle gave Bess a warm smile. ¡°I¡¯ll let Daltone downstairs right away. You can enjoy yourselves and wait for a moment. I¡¯ll tell the chef to prepare extra food for everyone.¡±


    ¡°Thank you so much, Mrs. Harper,¡± replied Bess, walking further into the mansion. She lingered downstairs, eyes wide at the grand dining room, the cozy nook off to one side, and a living room with high ceilings. ¡°This sofa feels amazing.¡±


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 Chapter 1177

    ?Chapter 1177:


    Bess leaned closer to Brenna after sitting down and whispered, ¡°Your whole ce just radiates style.¡±


    While her upbringing providedfort, her family still belonged to the middle ss. In contrast, the Harper home seemed to belong to another world. Each detail filled her with awe.


    Dalton soon walked into the living room and nced at the unfamiliar girl resting on the sofa. ¡°Are you the one who wants to see me?¡±


    Jumping to her feet, Bess hurried over to Dalton, her excitement bubbling. For a moment, she pinched her arm to make sure this was all real.


    Dalton was dressed casually in a sweatshirt. He looked even more charming in person than he did on television.


    ¡°Oh my God, it¡¯s really you! I never expected you toe from such a wealthy family!¡± Bess eximed.


    ¡°I¡¯ll leave you two to talk. I need to go upstairs and get changed,¡± Brenna said.


    After leaving the hospital, Gracie and Elsa made their way back home. Bright lights greeted them inside. Dinner was ready, prepared by the new chef, and the staff had cleaned the house thoroughly.


    The day at the hospital had left Elsapletely worn out. She sat down at the dining table, feeling a bit sad that Ethan was not home.


    Gracie walked over and gently massaged her shoulders. ¡°You must be tired.¡±


    A heavy sigh escaped Elsa. ¡°It takes so much out of me, caring for my mother. Giving her massages, making sure she isfortable, and running errands¡ªit¡¯s a lot to handle.¡±


    ¡°You really have given it your all. If it is getting overwhelming, you could hire a caregiver,¡± said Gracie, who had always been spoiled at home before. Whenever her father had fallen ill, her family made sure to have professionals care for him, never expecting her to do the work herself. But she had helped take care of Elsa¡¯s mother this time.


    Gracie believed she had gone above and beyond for Ethan.


    As soon as the food was brought out, the maids left the dining area in silence. Ten minutes slipped by, and there was still no sign of Ethan. Gracie was disappointed.


    Pulling out her phone, Elsa called Ethan. ¡°Where are you right now? Gracie and I have been waiting for you to join us for dinner. The food is getting cold, and you are still not back!¡±


    ?????????????? ??????????????: ?????????¦Í?????????????


    Ethan¡¯s tone was calm. ¡°I have a business dinner tonight. Go ahead and have dinner without me. I will not being home today.¡±<fn9437> Updates are released by Find¡ïNovel</fn9437>


    Suspicion had already crept into Elsa¡¯s mind. ¡°Are you doing this to avoid Gracie? How can you be so heartless? She has done so much for you, looking after me and Belen. You will never find anyone better than her. Juste back home now.¡±


    ¡°You have the maids for help. If Belen needs care, hire a caregiver for her. I never asked Gracie to do any of that, so please do not try to guilt-trip me,¡± Ethan replied in a cold voice.


    Elsa had put the phone on speaker, and Gracie heard everything clearly. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment.


    After the call ended, Gracie could not take it anymore. All she had done for Ethan now felt pointless, and she saw no reason to keep putting herself through it.


    ¡°Elsa, Ethan is correct. It really is not my ce to stay here any longer. The pest control at my apartment is finished, so I will get my things and move back home,¡± Gracie said, her voice trembling, tears in her eyes.


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 Chapter 1178

    ?Chapter 1178:


    Seeing this, Elsa felt for Gracie. Her matchmaking attempts had failed twice, and she realized Ethan was quite firm, not easily influenced by her.


    After dinner, Gracie packed her things and left.


    On the way back, she received a phone call. ¡°You see? Even though you had moved into Ethan¡¯s ce, he didn¡¯t take an interest in you.¡±


    In a private room at an exclusive club, Rosie sat opposite Gracie, who was visibly frustrated. Gracie had poured immense effort into winning over Ethan¡¯s mother, only to learn that Ethan¡¯s rtionship with his mother was fraught with tension, their phone calls often dissolving into heated disputes.


    Gracie had poured her heart into winning Elsa over, taking care of her mother and diligently learning to cook and bake from the ground up while mastering the intricacies of elderly care, such as helping with bathing and meals. Yet, her efforts remainedpletely unappreciated.<fn301a> Official source is f¦É¦Ídn¦Ïvel</fn301a>


    Theck of appreciation fueled her frustration. Rosie¡¯s presence only heightened her irritation. If Rosie hadn¡¯t promised she could spark Ethan¡¯s interest in her, Gracie would never have bothered with someone like her. In Gracie¡¯s eyes, Rosie was deceitful and maniptive, and Ethan¡¯s clear dislike for Rosie only deepened Gracie¡¯s disdain for her.


    ¡°If you have something to say, just say it. I am busy,¡± Gracie said.


    Rosie smirked, her toneced with sarcasm. ¡°Busy, huh? Busy tending to Ethan¡¯s grandmother? Catering to her every need? Making sure she¡¯sfortable?¡±


    Gracie¡¯s annoyance red. ¡°How do you know about that?¡±


    She had shared those details only with Ethan and Elsa, and no one at the Mitchell Group was aware of those things.


    ¡°I have my ways,¡± Rosie replied. ¡°Tell me, do you want to marry Ethan or not?¡±


    Gracie bristled at Rosie¡¯s condescending attitude. The recent slights she had endured had left her emotionally vulnerable, and even the faintest hint of scorn stung deeply.


    ¡°If you¡¯re here to mock me, we¡¯re done,¡± she shot back, rising to leave.


    Rosie calmly pulled a stack of photos from her bag, sliding them across the table to her.


    ¡°Take a look at these first.¡±


    ???????? ???????? ??????????: ?????????¦Í????????£®??????


    Gracie nced at the top photo, which showed Brenna chatting with a man holding flowers outside a building; the man was clearly not Ethan. Curiosity piqued, she sat back down and sifted through the images.


    Some captured Brenna and the man dining at a romantic restaurant.


    ¡°It¡¯s just dinner with someone. What¡¯s the big deal? They¡¯re not doing anything intimate,¡± Gracie said, her disappointment growing. The photos showed nothing more than friendly interactions. At most, they hinted at Brenna having other suitors.


    Her interest waned, and her expression turned cold.


    Rosie let out a sharpugh. ¡°You¡¯re missing the point. Brenna¡¯s not serious about Ethan. epting flowers from another man right outside the Mitchell Group building? How do you think Ethan would react if he saw this? Could it drive a wedge between them and make them break up?¡±


    Gracie shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t know, but Ethan wouldn¡¯t be happy about Brenna meeting another man or epting his gifts.¡±


    Still, she doubted it would lead to a breakup. At most, Ethan and Brenna would argue over the matter and quickly reconcile.


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 Chapter 1179

    ?Chapter 1179:


    Using these photos to stir trouble seemed futile and wouldn¡¯t address the root of her problem.


    Rosie respected Gracie¡¯sposure, noting that even after seeing the photos, Gracie didn¡¯t immediately view them as a chance to drive a wedge between Ethan and Brenna.


    Thoughposed, Gracie¡¯sck of experience in navigating romantic dynamics was evident.


    ¡°If you want Ethan, I can help you,¡± Rosie said bluntly.


    Gracie eyed her skeptically. ¡°What¡¯s your grand n? I¡¯ve already tried everything I can think of to win Ethan over, but in vain.¡± She had all but given up hope.


    Rosie, exasperated by Gracie¡¯sck of drive, said, ¡°Do as I say, and you¡¯ll get what you want. Stop obsessing over pleasing Ethan every second. Focus on securing your ce at the Mitchell Group. What¡¯s the point of taking care of Ethan¡¯s grandmother anyway?¡±


    She couldn¡¯t stand Gracie¡¯s current mindset. ¡°Money and power are a woman¡¯s true strength. With those, you¡¯ll never have to worry about finding a man. Think about it. When Ethan was starting out with nothing, you were the daughter of the powerful Wilson family. How did he treat you then?¡±


    Gracie¡¯s expression softened with a pang of sadness. Back then, Ethan had been attentive, eager to please her every whim.<fna65c> This content belongs to Find~Novel</fna65c>


    She nodded slowly. ¡°You¡¯re right, but I can¡¯t reim that status anymore. I don¡¯t have what it takes to climb back to that level.¡±


    ¡°Even if you can¡¯t regain your past influence, you can rebuild your wealth with effort. Trust me, men aren¡¯t everything. Money and power will make you unstoppable,¡± Rosie said.


    This was a lesson she had recently learned, and she was convinced Gracie could grasp it, too.


    ¡°Your advice makes sense, but I¡¯m already in a terrible position. Everyone at thepany looks down on me. They won¡¯t even assign me projects. I want money and power, but I can¡¯t seem to get them,¡± Gracie admitted, her voice heavy.


    She had given her all, hoping for Ethan¡¯s support, but he seemed intent on not giving her any.


    ¡°You¡¯ve been chasing the wrong dreams and heading down the wrong path. If you¡¯d just listened to my advice from the start, you wouldn¡¯t be feeling so defeated right now,¡± Rosie said, confidence radiating from her as she pulled out a charity g invitation from her bag.


    ??????????????????????????: g???????????????????¦Í??????????????????????


    In Shirie, phnthropy thrived, and countless charity organizations and events filled the calendar every year, all aimed at helping those in need. The city¡¯s wealthiest loved these banquets, eager to see their names carved into history or immortalized on some prestigious monument.


    Donation amounts were kept discreet, and regardless of the sum, donors could earn a good reputation. Beyond just writing checks, these gs provided a golden stage for social climbing, business negotiations, and maybe even a bit of matchmaking. Raised in high society, Gracie knew how these things worked all too well.


    ¡°Why hand this to me?¡± Gracie asked, uninterested as she flipped open the invitation. The event was hosted by a phnthropist she didn¡¯t recognize. Its goal was to fund cataract surgeries for the poor living in the hignds.


    With practiced grace, Rosie took a sip of her coffee and said, ¡°You know as well as I do that Brenna¡¯s been ying both sides. This is the perfect setting to catch her in the act and show Ethan her true colors.¡±


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 Chapter 1180

    Chapter 1180:


    Gracie perked up, curiosity recing her indifference. ¡°What¡¯s your n?¡±


    Meanwhile, Brenna had also received an invitation to this event. She had just said goodbye to the delivery person when Thiago, drawn by themotion, walked over.


    ¡°The Barker family is always putting together some charity function or other,¡± he muttered. ¡°They host these things nearly every month, each time iming a new cause. Honestly, I say we skip it.¡±


    Charity gs didn¡¯t impress Thiago. He doubted the Barker family actually used the money for anything meaningful.<fn212a> Find the newest release on ?ovelFind</fn212a>


    ¡°We really should attend,¡± Brenna said. ¡°They¡¯ve asked us multiple times. If we want to build our reputation in Shirie, we can¡¯t avoid these social events. Besides, our prosthetic arm orders keep piling up, and I need to connect with a new manufacturer. Maybe tonight¡¯s the chance for that.¡±


    With a reluctant nod, Thiago agreed, ¡°Alright, if you think it¡¯s important. I¡¯ll tell Ellie and Patrick to attend as well.¡±


    Soon enough, the weekend rolled around, bringing the Barker family¡¯s charity g with it.


    Brenna had originally nned to attend the g with Ethan, butst-minute trouble from Hector had sent Ethan to Norview the day before, and it looked like he¡¯d be stuck there for a while.


    That being the case, Brenna arrived at the event apanied by Ernst and Lilith.


    The charity g unfolded inside avish hotel ballroom, and Brenna noticed many familiar faces upon entering.


    Across the room, Jayceon and Fay mingled with a cheerful crowd. Eager to steer clear of Jayceon, Brenna leaned toward Ernst and said, ¡°You go on ahead. I¡¯d rather not talk to Jayceon tonight.¡±


    Ernst didn¡¯t push the issue, fully aware that Brenna wanted nothing to do with Jayceon after what he¡¯d done to Ellie.


    ¡°Alright then,¡± he replied before slipping away.


    As Ernst¡¯spanion, Lilith could not leave his side so soon and needed to socialize first. She waved to Brenna. ¡°We can hang outter.¡±


    Turning, Brenna caught sight of Gracie making her entrance, followed by three vice presidents of the Mitchell Group. Gracie looked radiant, her makeup wless, and unmistakably in good spirits.


    ??a????????¦Í???????????????


    Not wanting any friction, Brenna drifted deeper into the ballroom to avoid crossing paths with Gracie.


    Brenna hadn¡¯t gone far when a voice called out, ¡°Miss Harper!¡± She turned to see Conroy Barker, the head of the Barker family and tonight¡¯s host.


    ¡°Hello, Mr. Barker. It¡¯s an honor to finally meet you,¡± Brenna said, offering a polite handshake.


    Conroy¡¯s friendly expression put her at ease. Though Brenna had heard his name often, this was their first meeting, and he didn¡¯t seem like someone who only sought fame.


    ¡°I¡¯m so d you could make it tonight, Miss Harper. I¡¯ve admired your work for some time,¡± Conroy said. ¡°Your smart prosthetics are a real breakthrough, more advanced and adaptable than anything else on the market.¡±


    After a pause, he continued, ¡°You are still so young, yet your achievements are remarkable. But it¡¯s yourpassion that really stands out. Creating technology that changes lives takes more than skill. It takes heart.¡±


    A passing waiter offered drinks. Brenna epted a ss and clinked it gently with Conroy¡¯s. ¡°You tter me, Mr. Barker.¡±


    He leaned in. ¡°I have a favor to ask, if you¡¯re open to it. My factories employ many people with disabilities, and I¡¯m always looking for ways to make their lives easier.¡±


    Conroy showed her photos on his phone, dozens of smiling employees with disabilities at his electronics nt. Brenna could see the pride and happiness in their faces.


    ¡°You are truly a phnthropic entrepreneur,¡± Brenna said sincerely, touched by the photos. Few business owners would go to such lengths to offer opportunities to people with disabilities. ¡°I admire that.¡±


    ¡°If you have time, I¡¯d love for you to visit my factories, Miss Harper,¡± Conroy said. ¡°We¡¯ve got both electronics and mechanical operations, and many of our workers are people with disabilities. They are all very hard-working.¡±


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    Message from Noah: Nice friday for you dear ones. God loves you and Noah wishes you all the best. (?? ? ??)?


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 Chapter 1181

    ?Chapter 1181:


    Brenna had been chatting with Conroy for only a few minutes when Thiago walked over with Ellie and Patrick.


    Meanwhile, not far off, Gracie was mingling with three vice presidents from the Mitchell Group when Waldo soon joined them.


    Waldo appeared to be in high spirits, cheerfully sharing drinks with the vice presidents before turning his attention to Gracie.


    ¡°Miss Wilson, you look as stunning as ever. I didn¡¯t see you at the recent meetings. The partnership just isn¡¯t the same without your presence,¡± he said.


    The vice presidents couldn¡¯t help but feel the tension. Negotiations had been stalled, with Waldo¡¯s side continually pushing things back and using the Mitchell Group ofcking sincerity.


    Now, for the first time, the trio began to understand why, realizing that Waldo might have taken a liking to Gracie.


    Henley, who managedmunications with Waldo, quietly said to Gracie, ¡°Let¡¯s try to keep Waldo in good spirits today. Negotiations with him have been at a standstill for a while now. Maybe you could have a few drinks with him? If anything feels off, please don¡¯t hesitate to call us. We¡¯ll be nearby.¡±


    Gracie was boiling inside. She loathed Waldo for his maniptive nature and selfish motives.


    But Rosie¡¯s words echoed in her mind. If she wanted to win Ethan¡¯s favor, she needed to prove her value first. Securing this deal with Waldo could shift Ethan¡¯s perception of her.


    Pushing aside her disgust, Gracie made polite conversation and drank with Waldo, carefully maintaining a professional demeanor. Waldo quickly picked up on her more agreeable attitude and appeared satisfied.


    ¡°That¡¯s the spirit we need for coboration, Miss Wilson. If this project goes through, there¡¯s a generous bonus waiting for you,¡± he said.


    ???????? ?????????????? ???? ??????????????????.??????


    He casually draped an arm around her shoulder. ¡°Come on, let me introduce you to a few entrepreneurs. It¡¯ll help with future project discussions. Networking is key in this business. You¡¯re still new here, and you don¡¯t know many people. Plus, you¡¯re too reserved. That could be a disadvantage. A woman aiming for sess in this arena needs to be more sociable.¡±


    Gracie managed a smile, though it was stiff. As much as she detested Waldo, she knew his words held some truth. She always appeared aloof, carrying herself with the pride of being the daughter of the powerful Wilson family, often looking down on others.


    She had always disdained currying favor with people.<fn922d> Get full chapters from F¦Énd£Îovel</fn922d>


    But after facing repeated setbacks and failing to achieve anything concrete, she realized she had no choice but to face reality.


    ¡°You are right, Mr. Chapman,¡± she admitted, deciding to take Rosie¡¯s advice to heart. Her priority now was to secure a major project, prove her worth within thepany, and think about other things afterward. She needed both financial resources and real influence.


    True to his word, Waldo introduced Gracie to several key figures in the industry. She exchanged pleasantries with them, shared a few drinks, and allowed him to guide theworking process.


    Though she had consumed a fair amount of alcohol, her past social experiences had built up her tolerance.


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 Chapter 1182

    ?Chapter 1182:


    Gracie then noticed Brenna shaking hands with the event¡¯s host. The atmosphere around them was rxed and pleasant, as if they had reached some kind of agreement.


    Soon after the host departed, two other men struck up a conversation with Brenna. A wave of envy washed over Gracie. Why did Brenna attract people so effortlessly, while she had to endure thepany of someone like Waldo just to make connections?


    Gracie felt a deep bitterness stirring within her.


    While pretending to sip her drink, Gracie scanned the crowd until she spotted Rosie, who raised her ss toward her with a smile and waved her phone in the air.


    Gracie checked her phone and saw a message from Rosie.


    ¡°Get Waldo drunk.¡±


    Gracie was a bit confused. Waldo was already acting handsy with her, and the thought of encouraging him to drink more made her uneasy. She feared it might lead to him doing more reckless things to her.


    Still, sheplied with Rosie¡¯s instruction.


    Interestingly, Waldo had simr intentions. He hoped to get Gracie drunk enough to take advantage of her. Both of them kept urging each other to drink.


    Meanwhile, Brenna was pleasantly surprised by the poprity of her smart prosthetic limb technology. She had secured a project worth over a hundred million at just one charity banquet.


    Thiago soon joined her as she continued chatting with Conroy.


    As the conversations began to wind down, Brenna retrieved a check from her bag and handed it to Conroy.


    Conroy beamed. ¡°Miss Harper, I hope you will consider visiting our factory sometime. Even though we employ many individuals with disabilities, our mechanical processing facility is state-of-the-art, with top-notch quality control. I think you will find it quite impressive.¡±<fn7941> Fresh chapters posted on FindN0vel</fn7941>


    More content at g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í???s?c?m


    Brenna checked her schedule and agreed to visit the following Wednesday. Brenna¡¯s business matters wrapped up, and Ellie returned with Patrick in tow. Then, Lilith joined them.


    Lilith raised her ss with a smile. ¡°Congrattions, Brenna! I saw it all. Younded multiple deals in no time. Here¡¯s to your sess!¡± Ellie clinked her ss against Brenna¡¯s. ¡°Congrattions!¡±


    Dressed in a sharp little suit and holding a ss of juice, Patrick looked every bit like a miniature adult. He raised his ss to Brenna and said, ¡°Nice job, Brenna! Could you buy me some toys with the money you get from work?¡±


    Brenna chuckled and gently patted his head. ¡°Alright.¡±


    Just then, someone bumped into her, spilling red wine all over her light-colored dress.


    Gracie looked at Brenna with an apologetic expression. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry. I slipped.¡±


    ¡°Not on purpose?¡± Brenna narrowed her eyes, clearly unconvinced. Maybe if someone else had bumped into her or spilled a drink, she might¡¯ve believed it was an ident. But with Gracie? That excuse didn¡¯t hold water.


    Ellie stared at the soaked gown. The dress had cost a small fortune¡ªcustom-made, exclusive, and hand-stitched. Her expression twisted with anger. She raised her ss and flung the wine straight at Gracie¡¯s chest.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Gracie yelped, recoiling. ¡°What do you think you¡¯re doing?¡±


    Ellie let out a sharpugh. ¡°Oops. My bad. I didn¡¯t do it on purpose.¡±


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 Chapter 1183

    ?Chapter 1183:


    Gracie clenched her fists, staring at the red stain spreading across the bodice of her designer gown. It had cost over two hundred thousand¡ªeverything she had left in her ount. And she hadn¡¯t brought a spare. Besides, a dress stained with red wine was almost impossible to clean; it waspletely ruined. She gave an angry snort and turned to leave.


    Patrick stood nearby and said, ¡°I saw what happened! She meant to do that earlier. She angled the ss right at Brenna!¡±


    Brenna spun slightly, feeling the cold seep through the back of her dress. Whether Gracie had done it intentionally or not, she couldn¡¯t walk around like this. But she hadn¡¯t brought another outfit.


    She nced around and caught sight of the host. Conroy, having heard themotion, approached and took one look at her soaked dress. Without a word, he shrugged off his jacket and ced it gently around her shoulders.


    ¡°Your dress got dirty, Ms. Harper? Don¡¯t worry; we¡¯ve got a few extra gowns in the changing room. I¡¯ll take you there.¡±


    ¡°I really appreciate it, Mr. Barker,¡± Brenna said, grateful. ¡°That¡¯s incredibly thoughtful of you.¡±


    He gave a reassuring nod. ¡°I¡¯ve hosted more of these parties than I can count. Things go wrong, so we n ahead.¡±


    Brenna followed him to the changing room.


    Not far off, Rosie strolled over, holding a ss of wine. ¡°Lilith! Miss Moore!¡±


    Lilith recognized Rosie immediately. They¡¯d met long before she met Brenna. She only offered a polite smile to Rosie, then turned, ready to follow Brenna to the changing room.


    Ellie didn¡¯t want to talk to Rosie either. She was about to do the same.


    But Rosie wasn¡¯t so easily brushed off. ¡°Miss Moore, seeing you reminds me¡ªI need to ce an order for some outfits soon. My husband¡¯s campaign is kicking off in a few months, and he¡¯ll need to look his absolute best. Ellie, I¡¯ve heard your designs are internationally acimed. Got any suggestions?¡±


    Lilith, realizing she wasn¡¯t part of the conversation, made a quiet move to leave. However, Rosie quickly stopped her. ¡°Lilith, where are you rushing off to? It¡¯s been forever since west talked. Stay. I¡¯d love to catch up with you.¡±


    Lilith paused and nced in the direction Brenna had gone. It was just a wardrobe change; what could possibly go wrong anyway?<fn0e58> Updates are released by find?novel</fn0e58>


    Meanwhile, Brenna stepped into the changing room, only to find Gracie already there, flipping through the dresses.


    At first, Gracie seemed careful in her search. But the moment she noticed Brenna walk in, she casually plucked a purple gown from the rack and disappeared into the changing area.


    Brenna took her time, her eyes scanning over the options before settling on a sleek, ck dress. By the time she had made her choice, Gracie was already stepping out in her chosen gown.


    Once Gracie had left, Brenna stepped into the changing area. It waspact but well-furnished, with a soft bench for sitting, a section with hangers¡ªmost of them now empty¡ªand a vanity table stocked with essentials. A round leather stool sat nearby.


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 Chapter 1184

    ?Chapter 1184:


    These kinds of rooms were usually designed to offer full privacy. No mirrors with hidden lenses, no cameras. Brenna checked quickly, confirming it was just as secure as she hoped.


    She slipped out of her ruined dress, changed into the ck gown, pulled out her cosmetics pouch, and refreshed her makeup.


    After that, she gathered her things and turned toward the door, ready to leave, when it abruptly flew open and someone stumbled inside.


    Startled, Brenna stepped back, steadying herself before recognizing the intruder.


    It was Waldo¡ªclearly drunk. His eyes raked over her shamelessly. ¡°You are a real stunner, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°You pervert!¡± Brenna mmed her fist into his jaw, sending Waldo crashing to the floor.


    She then stepped over him and walked out, only to find Gracie waiting just outside the door.


    This exined why Gracie had sshed wine on her; she had nned for Waldo to harass her all along.


    Gracie hadn¡¯t expected things to turn out like this. Waldo, for all his size and strength, had been knocked t by Brenna in seconds.


    She instinctively backed away, her face tense. ¡°Don¡¯te any closer,¡± she said to Brenna.


    ¡°You arranged this, didn¡¯t you? How else would Waldo end up in a women¡¯s changing room?¡± Brenna folded her arms, her tone sharp.


    Gracie faltered, unsure of what to say for a moment. Brenna wasn¡¯t shouting or throwing things in anger, but there was something dangerous about the way she stood there. After a while, Gracie said, ¡°What are you nning to do?¡±


    g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s??om has it all


    Brenna looked her over, her expression unreadable. ¡°Waldo was obsessed with you, I remember. At the tennis club that afternoon, he couldn¡¯t stop staring at you. How about I make his wishe true?¡±


    Gracie¡¯s eyes widened in horror. ¡°No! Absolutely not. You¡¯re crazy. Just stay away from me!¡±


    As Brenna exited the dressing room, she found Ernst waiting at the entrance, his face etched with concern.


    ¡°What went on in there? I thought I heard someone crying out and pleading,¡± he said.


    He then nced inside and froze, stunned by the sight. A young woman was there, her clothes shredded beyond repair, frantically searching for anything to cover herself.


    But the garments on the racks were all ruined, torn to bits by Brenna. A man emerged from the same room, his attire also ripped apart, scraps littering the floor.


    Ernst¡¯s brow furrowed as he swiftly shut the door.


    Turning to Brenna with disbelief, he asked, ¡°Was this your doing?¡±


    Brenna nodded calmly, as though the chaos inside was inconsequential. ¡°Yes, let¡¯s leave.¡±


    Ernst¡¯s face darkened. He knew his sister was kind and gentle; she wouldn¡¯t have done something like that without cause. He suspected the two people inside had done something outrageous to provoke her. Pulling out his phone, he summoned his two bodyguards to stand watch at the dressing room door.


    As Brenna stepped into the main hall, she noticed Ellie and Lilith chatting with Rosie.


    .


    .<fn53fd> Original content can be found at f?ndnovel</fn53fd>


    .

 Chapter 1185

    ?Chapter 1185:


    Rosie¡¯s eyes widened in surprise when she saw Brenna, but she continued her conversation with Ellie. ¡°All¡¯s decided, then. Tomorrow, Maxley and I will stop by your studio for fittings.¡±


    Ellie and Rosie exchanged contact details. Just then, there was amotion, people surging toward the dressing room.


    Brenna, Ellie, and Lilith followed, peering through the crowd to see two naked figures dashing toward the hotel rooms from the dressing room. Phones shed as onlookers snapped photos and recorded videos.


    ¡°Who are they?¡±


    ¡°How shameless, doing something so scandalous in the dressing room!¡±


    ¡°It must have been wild¡ªlook at their clothes,pletely shredded!¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that man Mr. Chapman?¡±


    ¡°Who¡¯s the woman? Her figure¡¯s quite stunning from behind.¡±


    Ernst stood at the crowd¡¯s edge, his bodyguards discreetly forwarding him the photos they had taken before slipping away.


    Inside a hotel room, Gracie and Waldo mmed the door shut, bothpletely naked.


    Despite being a man, Waldo dreaded humiliation and was consumed by frustration and embarrassment, his thoughts stuck on the moment Brenna had pinned him down with her foot and shredded his clothes. The material had been high-quality and durable, yet Brenna, despite her small build, had ripped it apart easily.


    ¡°She is such a bitch!¡± Waldo hissed through clenched teeth, pulling Gracie close, his lips and hands wandering over her.


    Gracie pushed back fiercely, humiliated after being exposed to countless onlookers. Though she had hidden her face while fleeing the dressing room, photos had been taken, and though her identity might remain unknown, the disgrace burned.


    ???????? ?????????????? ???? ??????????????????.??????


    Waldo¡¯s animalistic groping only deepened her fury and mortification. Noticing her defiance, Waldo paused and said, ¡°Yield to me, and I¡¯ll guarantee you this project and a solid foothold in the Mitchell Group.¡±


    Only then did Gracie stop resisting.


    After some time, Waldo phoned his assistant to bring them fresh clothes.


    Sprawled on the bed, Gracie and Waldo schemed their revenge.


    ¡°We get revenge now,¡± Waldo said bitterly. ¡°Brenna snappedpromising photos of me, intimate ones, and you, too. Don¡¯t forget. She¡¯s ckmailing us to stay silent about what happened.¡±


    Gracie boiled with rage, recalling Brenna¡¯s parting threat. Brenna had said that if they dared leak the footage of her changing, she would share their explicit photos online.


    ¡°What should we do? Are we just going to ept this?¡± Gracie asked.


    Waldo had no immediate solution. ¡°We¡¯ll get our revenge eventually. A chance wille.¡±


    Just as they finished putting on their clothes, a knock at the door jolted them.


    ¡°Who¡¯s there?¡± Waldo snapped, irritated.


    ¡°It¡¯s me, Rosie.¡±


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    .<fn1cf1> Follow current nov?ls on find~novel</fn1cf1>

 Chapter 1186

    ?Chapter 1186:


    Gracie cracked open the door, irritation simmering as she muttered to Rosie, worried that Waldo might overhear her. ¡°Look at the mess you¡¯ve gotten us into!¡±


    Rosie, already in a sour mood, was seething¡ªher carefullyid ns had been ruined.


    ¡°My n was ruined because of you! You botched something so easy. I need to speak with Waldo,¡± Rosie said.


    Gracie stepped aside, letting Rosie enter, then slumped onto the couch. Waldo, barely acquainted with Rosie, eyed her with suspicion.


    ¡°Miss Harper, you are not here to mock me, are you?¡±


    ¡°Not at all. I know you were tricked by Brenna. I¡¯m here to help you get back at her,¡± Rosie replied.


    ¡°Get back at her? Brenna is the Harper family¡¯s daughter, shielded by military connections. I would be insane to go after her! Get out!¡±


    Convinced Rosie was here to mock him, Waldo shoved her out the door with force.


    Rosie was baffled. Waldo wasn¡¯t known for restraint, and despite the Harper family¡¯s influence, he wasn¡¯t a pushover. Why was he so quick to dismiss revenge?


    Midweek arrived with Brenna organizing a factory visit for herself, Thiago, and Tommy. Hours slipped by as they explored Conroy¡¯s mechanical workshop, even pausing to share lunch with the team.


    The very next day, the three regrouped around a conference table. Impressed by the facility¡¯s cutting-edge tech, they debated outsourcing some orders to Conroy¡¯s production line. Provided everything matched their standards, they envisioned a long-standing coboration.


    Additionally, they agreed to offer prosthetic limbs, free of charge, to every disabled employee at Conroy¡¯s factory. Most of these workers were leg amputees¡ªsome missing one, others both¡ªadding up to seventy-two people. Brenna was willing to offer them smart mechanical prosthetics for free. Those suffering from post-polio syndrome and unable to walk, however, were beyond the help of current technology; there was nothing Brenna could do for them.


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    Even the simplest version of a smart leg prosthesis came with a steep price tag¡ªtwo hundred thousand per limb, despite theparatively basic engineering. After tallying up the cost for seventy-two unique cases, factoring in assessments and fittings, the cost easily crossed the twenty million mark. Conversations with Conroy revealed that many of the amputee workers were veterans, men who had served the nation. Despite receiving some support from the government, the expense of prosthetic limbs remained far out of reach for most.


    For Brenna, helping those who¡¯d already sacrificed so much was an easy decision. She promised to cover all expenses herself.


    With a n in ce, the team agreed that Greta would manage the project. News of her assignment left Greta feelingplicated emotions.


    Rivalry with Brenna over Ethan had convinced her that her days at thepany were numbered. She had been prepared to face Brenna¡¯s dismissal.


    Yet, here she was, entrusted to lead a vital project on her own.


    ¡°Greta, you¡¯ll be in charge of this project. Every disabled person must go through a proper evaluation at a certified orthotics facility. We¡¯ve got a few potential partners to consider. Look into each one carefully. Find out which provides the best service withoutpromising on quality, and that¡¯s the one we¡¯ll work with,¡± Brenna said.


    Blinking back tears, Greta quickly reviewed the options and settled on Angel Orthotics.


    .


    .<fnbd1b> ???s ??????? ?s ?????? ?? Find¡ïNovel</fnbd1b>


    .

 Chapter 1187

    ?Chapter 1187:


    ¡°This ce is good. The founder studied under my mother at the National Research Institute before. I have full confidence in their expertise,¡± she said.


    Brenna gave a single nod. ¡°I¡¯ll need a full report on this. Let the numbers and data convince me.¡±


    ¡°Absolutely, Miss Harper! I will do my best.¡± Determined, Greta conferred with Tommy for further details, then plunged into her research, eager to craft an execution n.


    Uncertainty flickered across Tommy¡¯s face. ¡°Brenna, Greta has done some bad things before. Why put her in charge of something this important?¡±


    A gentle smile yed at Brenna¡¯s lips. ¡°Inexperience led her to make impulsive choices back then. Lately, her performance has improved. Plus, with her mother¡¯s position at the National Research Institute, she has ess to connections we can¡¯t get. She is also sharp and driven. I cannot let personal grudges prevent me from utilizing her talents.¡±


    Doubt lingered in Tommy¡¯s voice. ¡°I¡¯ll still keep an eye on her, just in case.¡±


    Brenna offered no protest and simply shifted focus, working with Tommy to determine which orders should go to Conroy.


    Before long, Lorna entered the office, carrying a pair of coffee cups and a tray of fruit. ¡°Miss Harper, news just came in¡ªGracie locked down Waldo¡¯s project and already has the contract in hand. Mr. Mitchell handed it to her himself.¡±


    Nothing about this surprised Brenna. She figured Waldo must have slept with Gracie the night before, which exined why the project was handed to her.<fn48ed> N?w ?ovel chapt?rs are published on find?novel</fn48ed>


    ¡°This works out well. Gracie finally has a solid foothold at the Mitchell Group and won¡¯t have to take care of Belen to get what she wants anymore,¡± Thiago said.


    Tommy arched an eyebrow. ¡°You think it¡¯s good news? But you¡¯re not exactly jumping for joy.¡±


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    Thiago let out a shortugh. ¡°Tommy, you really don¡¯t know why Waldo picked Gracie for the project, do you?¡±


    A confused look crossed Tommy¡¯s face. ¡°No, I don¡¯t. Why?¡±


    Thiago arched an eyebrow and recounted what he¡¯d pieced together. Even without seeing Brenna in the act, the torn-up clothes on the floor and two bare figures left little room for doubt as to who had been responsible¡ªBrenna.


    Brenna did not deny it, merely offering a soft smile.


    Tommy, unfazed, simply shrugged. Brenna had pulled off far bolder stunts in the past. He was not surprised by this.


    He leaned in. ¡°Brenna, I¡¯ve got a few contacts who are executives at the Mitchell Group. Want me to stir the pot and make things a little tougher for them?¡±


    A slow nce from Brenna met his offer. ¡°Is that so? If Gracie finds herself in some hot water, I will certainly be d.¡±


    Thiago and Tommy exchanged knowing smiles. They both understood Brenna¡¯s nature; she was ruthless when she was getting her revenge.


    Soon, Jayceon and Fay¡¯s wedding day rolled around.


    Attending the wedding hadn¡¯t been on Brenna¡¯s agenda at first, but with Thiago and Ellie¡¯s family of three set on going, she made up her mind to also be there. The thought of supporting her best friend¡ªand keeping Jayceon and Fay from taking advantage of her friend¡ªwas reason enough.


    Brenna showed up at Ellie¡¯s ce a little after nine. Ellie was busy changing in the bedroom.


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 Chapter 1188

    ?Chapter 1188:


    Thiago was sprawled on the couch, visibly exasperated. He said to Ellie, ¡°Honestly, you women act like you¡¯re heading to a runway show every time you go out. How many times have you changed now? It doesn¡¯t matter if you¡¯re in haute couture or something you made yourself, because you look amazing in everything! I¡¯ll never get why you keep fussing over clothes.¡±


    Brenna caught the sound of Thiago¡¯s whining as she made her way inside, the makeup artist trailing right behind her.


    Thiago¡¯s face lit up with relief when he saw Brenna. ¡°Thank goodness you¡¯re here! Talk some sense into her, please. I¡¯m at my wits¡¯ end. She¡¯s been at it for over an hour, and there¡¯s no telling when she¡¯ll finally decide on an outfit.¡±


    Brenna gave him a knowing smile. ¡°She just wants to look good standing beside you, you know.¡±


    Thiago scoffed, unconvinced. ¡°Oh,e on. I¡¯m not some kid she needs to impress. She¡¯s not doing it for me. She wants to steal the spotlight from the bride, and let¡¯s be honest, stir up trouble in the Russell family while she¡¯s at it.¡± He then walked off, leaving Brenna to step into the bedroom.


    Inside, Ellie was standing before the mirror in a shimmering blue gown, clutching a bold red off-the-shoulder dress in her hand.


    Ellie eyed her reflection, clearly torn, and nced at Brenna. ¡°Help me decide. Which one should I go with?¡±


    After taking a moment, Brenna replied, ¡°Go with the blue one; it definitely suits you better.¡±


    Ellie¡¯s face brightened. ¡°I thought so, too. It kind of gives off a mermaid vibe, doesn¡¯t it?¡±


    Brenna could easily read what Ellie was trying to do. Back when Ellie was pregnant and hoping to marry Jayceon, the Russell family had looked down on her.


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    Today, this event wasn¡¯t just about Jayceon¡¯s wedding. For Ellie, it was a chance to show everyone, especially the Russell family, that the girl they¡¯d once dismissed was now standing tall and even more famous than them.


    Brenna fully supported Ellie in this.


    ¡°Everyone¡¯s going to be talking about you today. This look? Absolutely stunning,¡± she said.<fnd830> For more chapters visit ?ovelFind</fnd830>


    Ellie lifted her chin with quiet resolve. ¡°I had these blue and red dresses made just for this asion. I want the Russell family to see what I¡¯ve be. Even if Jayceon came crawling back to me, I wouldn¡¯t give him a second thought. My husband is sessful, and my life is a hundred times better than anything I could have had with Jayceon.¡±


    With her mind made up, Ellie carefully put away the red dress and took a seat for the makeup artist to get started.


    It was nearly ten o¡¯clock by the time Ellie was ready to leave the house. Brenna grinned, squeezing her hand. ¡°You look incredible!¡± She led Ellie outside, where Thiago and Patrick, both impably dressed, were already waiting. The father and son duo couldn¡¯t help but shower Ellie withpliments, lifting her spirits as they set off.


    They reached the venue just before eleven. At the gift registry, Ellie made a point of signing her full name,plete with her title.


    Ellie, Chief Designer at M&G International, a world-renowned luxury dress designer.


    As for Brenna, she simply wrote down ¡°BH¡± instead of her own name.


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 Chapter 1189

    ?Chapter 1189:


    The wedding unfolded at an upscale hotel, with the sprawlingwn transformed into a fairytale scene: fresh blooms everywhere, pastel balloons, a bright red carpet, and rows of elegant chairs set the stage for a dreamy, romantic celebration.


    Shortly after they were seated, the ceremony began.


    Jayceon, dressed in a sleek custom tux, strode down the aisle to the bride, who was escorted by Fay¡¯s father. Ironically, both the bride¡¯s gown and Jayceon¡¯s suit had been designed by Ellie.


    At first, no one in the crowd seemed to recognize just how much the bride resembled Ellie.


    The room fell quiet as Jayceon escorted the bride onto the stage. Suddenly, Patrick dashed forward, holding a bouquet out to Jayceon. ¡°Congrattions on your wedding, Dad!¡±


    ¡°Wow¡­¡±<fnffe7> This text is hosted at Find1Novel</fnffe7>


    The crowd erupted in whispers.


    Patrick looked exactly like Jayceon.


    Although Fay had always known about Patrick, she still felt a twist of difort. Why did her husband¡¯s son have to be front and center at her wedding? Was he doing this on purpose to mess with her?


    Members of the Warren family wore expressions of obvious displeasure. Fay¡¯s parents, in particr, looked angry.


    Unable to hold back, Fay¡¯s father stormed up to the stage and barked, ¡°And who exactly is this boy, calling Jayceon his father in front of everyone? Get him off the stage!¡±


    Ellie and Thiago exchanged a knowing look before joining Patrick onstage. Ellie stepped in protectively, gently pulling her son close. ¡°Patrick is my son, and Jayceon¡¯s. Is there a problem with that?¡±


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    Fay¡¯s father¡¯s anger boiled over. ¡°How dare you! This is Fay and Jayceon¡¯s wedding. Parading an illegitimate child around is an insult! Who told you this was eptable?¡±


    He shot Jayceon a hard look, waiting for him to step in to drive Ellie and her family away.


    Fay¡¯s displeasure was written all over her face. She¡¯d only invited Ellie and her son for Jayceon¡¯s sake. She had not expected them to cause a scene like this.


    But then, everyone noticed something.


    ¡°Does anyone else see it? The bride and the boy¡¯s mother look so much alike!¡±


    ¡°And honestly, the boy¡¯s mother is even more striking than the bride!¡±


    Flustered, Fay tugged at her father¡¯s sleeve. ¡°Dad, that¡¯s enough. Jayceon and I invited them here.¡±


    Her father turned around, his shock quickly turning to outrage. ¡°You mean you knew about his son all along?¡±


    He could barely contain his frustration. ¡°You married him, fully aware he has a child with someone else?¡±


    He nced from Ellie¡¯s face to his daughter¡¯s, realization dawning. His re thennded squarely on Jayceon, filled with disapproval.


    But Jayceon made no move to ask Ellie or Patrick to leave. Instead, he epted a stack of documents from his assistant and handed Patrick a property deed. ¡°Here, Patrick, this luxury apartment belongs to you.¡±


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 Chapter 1190

    ?Chapter 1190:


    He also handed over another deed. ¡°This is for a 5,000-square-footmercial space. It¡¯s yours as well.¡±


    Then came a bank card, a certificate of deposit, and two sets of car keys, every item ced in Patrick¡¯s hands, one after another.


    The message couldn¡¯t have been clearer: Patrick was his heir, and no one should think otherwise.<fna560> Checktest chapters at find?novel</fna560>


    Fay¡¯s face was tight with envy, while her parents were frozen in stunned silence. Jayceon¡¯s actions left no doubt¡ªhe wanted Fay¡¯s family to understand that his assets were already spoken for, and Patrick would inherit his fair share.


    Fay¡¯s father looked ready to protest, but Fay grabbed his arm and shook her head firmly.


    ¡°Please, let¡¯s not make a scene. I¡¯m aware of this,¡± Fay whispered.


    Her father¡¯s voice was tinged with fury. ¡°How can you stand for this? Don¡¯t you see, you¡¯re just a substitute in his eyes?¡±


    Fay didn¡¯t even flinch. ¡°Do you want to know why he decided to marry me, Dad?¡±


    That stopped him cold. Understanding shed across his face, and he had nothing more to say.


    He let out a weary sigh and stepped back with his wife.


    The Warren family might not have had much standing, but Jayceon¡¯s gifts for them¡ªten million, two homes, and a pair of luxury cars¡ªwere more than enough for them to boast.


    Only now did Fay¡¯s father piece it together that Jayceon¡¯svish gifts had nothing to do with generosity.


    It was because his daughter was a stand-in for the woman Jayceon truly loved. There was no greater insult.


    L?¦Ó??¦Ó ch?¦Ñ¦Ó?rs ¦Én g??l??ov?ls.????


    Jayceon was doing this not just to give properties to his son; it was also a clear warning for the Warren family not to get any ideas about his wealth.


    ¡°Thanks, Dad! And congrattions!¡± Patrick said as he shed a bright smile. He gathered up the paperwork and passed it to Ellie, and the three of them made their exit, hands linked.


    Ellie wore a triumphant smile, riding a wave of satisfaction.


    She didn¡¯t care about the money or the properties. What mattered was Jayceon¡¯s public stance. This was thepensation she¡¯d waited for. Jayceon had finally acknowledged his son in front of everyone. Ellie¡¯s trip hadn¡¯t been in vain, and she¡¯d managed to get back at the Russell family. She wanted them to see that, even without marriage, Jayceon still treated her and her son well. And she knew that fact alone would infuriate them.


    Colden looked unhappy but chose to stay silent.


    Jayceon¡¯s stepmother shot Ellie a venomous look, her nails digging into her palms. If not for the crowd, she would have pped Ellie.


    The Russell family¡¯s standing had plummeted, and they now clung to Jayceon¡¯spany just to save face. Colden wasn¡¯t about to risk angering him.


    Brenna, meanwhile, was more than pleased with how things had turned out. She spotted Ethan and Ernst among the groomsmen.


    The following morning, Brenna headed to the office. Lorna entered with a fresh cup of coffee, her face lit up with gossip.


    ¡°Boss, you have to see this,¡± she said.


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1191

    ?Chapter 1191:


    Lorna handed over her phone, showing a group chat interface.


    Disyed on the screen was the Mitchell Group¡¯s executive group chat, members including senior leaders, department heads, Neville, Rex, ni, and more.


    ni was the one who had added Lorna to the group chat.


    Scrolling through thetest messages, Brenna spotted a blurry photo that made her pause¡ªtwo naked people dashing down a hotel corridor, captured from behind.


    Though the photo was unclear, Brenna immediately recognized the naked figures as Gracie and Waldo.


    Lorna leaned in, bubbling with excitement. ¡°You can tell who they are, right? This photo is everywhere now. Everyone at headquarters has seen this.¡±


    Brenna couldn¡¯t help butugh. ¡°So, who leaked this photo?¡±


    Lorna shrugged. ¡°No clue. Someone posted it from a throwaway ount, then vanished. Can you imagine Gracie¡¯s face when she saw it? If I were her, I¡¯d want to disappear forever.¡±


    Brenna nodded in agreement. ¡°That¡¯s beyond humiliating. You think she¡¯d ever go so far as to do something drastic?¡±


    Lorna replied, ¡°Who knows? I¡¯m more worried about Mr. Mitchell¡¯s reaction when he sees this. Gracie¡¯s an expert at ying the victim. Wouldn¡¯t be surprised if she goes running to Mr. Mitchell for help.¡±


    Brenna considered Lorna¡¯s point and asked, ¡°Is it possible Gracie leaked the photo on purpose?¡±


    Lorna¡¯s jaw dropped. ¡°No way! No woman would do that to herself!¡±


    She then grinned mischievously. ¡°I¡¯m heading up to the ny-ninth floor to see how Gracie¡¯s handling this.¡±<fn4a27> N?w ?ovel chapt?rs are published on F¦ÉndNovel</fn4a27>


    g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s£®c????, a world of tales


    ¡°Go on. I can¡¯t wait to see what will happen next,¡± Brenna said, thinking the person who had leaked the photo must hate Gracie.


    Still, as she reflected on the drama, she felt Gracie had brought this on herself. She really wanted to meet the mastermind behind the scandal.


    Exiting her office on the ny-ninth floor, Gracie immediately picked up on the odd nces from the secretarial team. Everyone seemed to fixate on her as if she had something on her face. She dismissed their attention, chalking it up to jealousy over her solo leadership on thetest project.


    Her steps carried her directly to the small conference room, its door left open just enough for every whisper inside to spill out.


    Ovepping voices floated her way. ¡°That has to be Waldo and Gracie. Who could¡¯ve guessed she¡¯d actually snag the project using this tactic?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the big deal? She has been at thispany forever, and the CEO has never given her anything important before. She probably jumped at the chance just to finally prove herself.¡±


    ¡°Can you imagine doing something like this just to get a foothold here¡­¡±


    For three minutes, Gracie lingered by the doorway, eavesdropping in disbelief. She couldn¡¯t understand why they were talking about her like this, thinking it was due to jealousy over her bing the project lead.


    Determined not to let it bother her, she straightened, reminding herself she¡¯d show everyone just how capable she was.


    A hush swept through the conference room the moment she stepped inside, every face turning toward her.


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1192

    ?Chapter 1192:


    Throughout the meeting, a cold distance clung to her team. Some colleagues grew outright uncooperative, while others were simply indifferent to her. Despite it all, Gracie pressed on, finishing the work as nned, though the subtle shift in atmosphere had left her uneasy.


    Returning to her own office, Gracie found her assistant, Sonia Patel, following her inside.


    Unable to hold back her worries, she turned to her assistant. ¡°Sonia, did you get the feeling something was off with everyone today? I don¡¯t remember doing anything to upset them; am I missing something?¡±


    Having worked with Gracie long enough, Sonia knew her boss¡¯ ws. Gracie was sometimes arrogant but treated her well. Sonia feared that if she didn¡¯t reveal the truth, Gracie might suffer even more.


    Silently, she ced her phone on the desk, showing Gracie the messages circting in the group chats.


    Sudden rity washed over Gracie as she scrolled through the endless stream of messages.


    Every chat group across thepany seemed to be discussing her.


    The photo of her had been shared endlessly across countless chats. Even though it showed only her silhouette, there was no mistaking that she was the one in the photo.


    Tears welled up and spilled over as the realization struck her. Who had done this? Who could be so cruel?


    Phone clutched tightly, Gracie rushed out of the office. Sonia hurried after her, worry etched on her face.


    Without hesitation, Gracie made her way to the CEO¡¯s office.


    Inside, Milton was in the midst of briefing Ethan on the recent drone project. Spotting Gracie¡¯s tear-streaked face, Milton instantly understood why she was here; he had seen the photo and had allowed the gossip to fester unchecked. The three vice presidents had witnessed the incident firsthand, and Milton had already briefed Ethan on the matter before his report.


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    Now, the situation threatened to be a full-blown PR crisis for the Mitchell Group.


    Ethan kept hisposure as he addressed Milton, saying, ¡°Thank you, Milton. Your handling of the project has been exemry. Move forward with funding, and provide any technical support our business partners need.¡± Ethan dismissed Milton calmly.


    With a look of quiet sympathy, Milton passed Gracie on his way out, making sure to close the door behind him as he left.<fn5fdd> For original chapters go to </fn5fdd>


    Gracie, nearly ovee with tears, thrust Sonia¡¯s phone onto Ethan¡¯s desk. ¡°Ethan, look at this!¡± she said, her voice breaking. ¡°It has to be Brenna who spread this photo.¡±


    Ethan had already caught wind of the matter¡ªRex had briefed him before Milton hade into his office.


    He¡¯d wasted no time, instructing the IT department to find out who had leaked the photo.


    Ethan felt sympathy for Gracie and was furious, bewildered by the audacity of someone spreading such a scandalous image of apany executive.


    He said, ¡°I already know what happened at the fundraising event. Don¡¯t start ming Brenna¡ªshe¡¯s not the type to stoop to something like this.¡± He knew that if Brenna ever wanted revenge, she¡¯d be far more direct.


    .


    .


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 Chapter 1193

    ?Chapter 1193:


    Gracie shook her head, tears streaming more freely. ¡°You don¡¯t understand! It was definitely her. She destroyed my clothes that day and kept snapping photos of me. I called her several timesst night, begging her to get rid of them, but she refused every time.¡±


    Exasperation crept into Ethan¡¯s voice. ¡°Did you go out of your way to provoke her again? I told you to avoid conflicts with her. Why didn¡¯t you listen?¡±


    Defensively, Gracie replied, ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to! I identally spilled wine on her as I walked past, and it stained her designer dress. She retaliated by ruining my outfit. Ethan, she¡¯s vengeful and ruthless. Please, I need your help to get justice for me.¡±


    Ethan shook his head slowly, disappointment clear on his face. Though he hadn¡¯t spoken to Brenna yet, his gut told him she would never escte things unless she was provoked.


    Suspicion colored Ethan¡¯s words. ¡°Is there something you¡¯re not telling me? Did you ssh wine on her on purpose?¡± His trust in Brenna was unwavering.


    Gracie¡¯s sobs grew louder. ¡°Why do you always take her side? If you don¡¯t believe what I¡¯m saying, just ask her! She destroyed my outfit in the changing room and ruined my backup dress. She even tore up Waldo¡¯s clothes!¡±


    Ethan blinked in disbelief. ¡°Wait¡ªBrenna did that?¡± The entire situation sounded almost unbelievable.<fnaffa> Original content can be found at find¡¤novel</fnaffa>


    Waldo was a grown man, yet Brenna had somehow subdued him and torn up his clothes?


    A heavy sigh escaped Ethan. He found the whole scenario draining, thinking Brenna could have let her bodyguard do something like that for her.


    Rage surged through Gracie. The fact that Ethan¡¯s main concern was Brenna catching a glimpse of Waldo undressed rather than the bullying she had endured left her stunned.


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    Was that truly the bigger issue?


    Every nasty trick Brenna pulled, all the hurt she caused, apparently meant nothing in Ethan¡¯s eyes. All that seemed to bother him was Brenna¡¯s idental peek at someone else¡¯s body.


    A heavy sense of disappointment settled inside Gracie; she felt that Ethan couldn¡¯t care less about what she¡¯d gone through.


    Any hope that he valued her as much as Brenna vanished at that moment. Her chest burned with indignation, and her desire to win Ethan¡¯s approval faded away.


    She started to resent Ethan slightly.


    She didn¡¯t want to win him over anymore.


    If there was anything left she wanted from Ethan, it was his money.


    Rosie¡¯s voice echoed in her thoughts.


    ¡°When a man feels nothing for you, your pain won¡¯t shake him. But when he loves you, he will notice even the smallest change in you.¡±


    Not long ago, Gracie would have rolled her eyes at Rosie, dismissing those words as nothing more than bitter cynicism.


    Yet with everything that had just happened, those words suddenly felt sharper and more truthful than ever.


    The truth settled in, and Gracie made up her mind not to hold back anymore.


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1194

    ?Chapter 1194:


    Brushing away her tears, she straightened up and said with resolve, ¡°Ethan, it had to be Brenna who spread that photo. What she did was awful. She should be held ountable and apologize publicly to me.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s mind was in turmoil, consumed by thoughts of Brenna seeing Waldo naked. He was upset about it; Brenna hadn¡¯t even seen him naked, yet she had seen another man¡¯s body?


    That was something he couldn¡¯t ept.


    Irritation red in his voice as he snapped back at Gracie, ¡°Why did you throw wine at her?¡±


    To his mind, the whole mess could have been avoided if Gracie hadn¡¯t sshed Brenna with red wine.


    ¡°It was an ident,¡± Gracie replied patiently. Ethan didn¡¯t believe her at all. ¡°I know you and Brenna don¡¯t get along, but you shouldn¡¯t plot against her in public like that.¡±


    Gracie¡¯s frustration boiled over. Rosie¡¯s words reyed in her mind, ringing true. ¡°So you think I deserved everything that happened?¡± she asked, hurt swelling in her voice.


    Tears sprang to Gracie¡¯s eyes again, blurring her vision.


    Even seeing her so upset, Ethan remained unmoved. ¡°Don¡¯t go ming Brenna without proof. You can¡¯t just use her of leaking the photo because you think¡­¡±


    Unable to take it any more, Gracie left the room and spent a long time crying alone in her office.


    Sonia did her best to soothe Gracie, but the tears just kepting. ¡°No one cares about me, Sonia. I feelpletely abandoned.¡±


    In an effort to ease her pain, Sonia offered a gentle reassurance. ¡°The CEO already asked the IT department to track down whoever sent those photos. He still cares about you.¡±


    g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s???§à?? opens doors to wonder


    Gracie shook her head. ¡°Why even bother with the investigation? It¡¯s obvious Brenna¡¯s behind it. He¡¯s just buying time, trying to cover for her. He never once took my side. To him, Brenna¡¯s always innocent. She can do anything she wants, and he¡¯ll find a way to excuse it. But me? In his mind, I¡¯m always stirring up trouble for no reason at all.¡±


    Gracie¡¯s frustration finally boiled over, her voice carrying down the hallway and into the neighboring offices.


    Sonia, at a loss for words, nced at the clock and decided to suggest a distraction.


    ¡°How about you stop thinking about this and grab¡­¡±<fnfb21> This update is avable on F?nd-Novel</fnfb21>


    A quick wave from Gracie sent her away. Gracie was in no mood for lunch. Left alone with her thoughts, Gracie couldn¡¯t shake the feeling of defeat. Brenna always seemed to win.


    Her gaze lingered on her phone as Rosie¡¯s name came to mind. With the office empty during lunch hours, Gracie called Rosie.


    Rosie, who was also having lunch, seemed to have anticipated the call. She answered immediately.


    Desperation edged Gracie¡¯s voice as she recounted what had happened. Then, she said, ¡°I don¡¯t know what to do anymore.¡± At that moment, Rosie felt like herst bit of hope, the one person she trusted to listen.


    .


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 Chapter 1195

    ?Chapter 1195:


    Embarrassment weighed heavily on Gracie. ¡°People at work have all seen that photo of me with Waldo. I can¡¯t even bring myself to face anyone. I¡¯m begging you to help me; you¡¯re the only one I can turn to.¡±


    Her tone thick with scorn, Rosie replied, ¡°Well, there¡¯s a drastic way to get Ethan on your side.¡±


    Hope flickered in Gracie¡¯s voice as she pressed for an answer. ¡°Is there really? Tell me, Rosie¡ªplease, I trust you. You¡¯re the only one who¡¯s good to me. I¡¯ll do whatever you say.¡± Her mind was in disarray, her judgment clouded.


    Rosie softly uttered, ¡°You can try killing yourself.¡±


    Without waiting for a response, Rosie ended the call, turning her attention to her phone¡¯s photo gallery, which was overflowing with explicit photos of Gracie and Waldo. Every shot was sharp, untouched by any filter or blur. If Gracie didn¡¯t reach out to her for help or if she disobeyed, she would release the photos. A smirk curved on Rosie¡¯s lips. ¡°What a fool.¡±


    Returning from lunch, Sonia went back to her desk and skimmed through Gracie¡¯s schedule. An important meeting with Waldo¡¯spany was set for two o¡¯clock, where they would finalize the details of the partnership. A nce at her watch told her it was already one. With a full hour to spare, she assumed Gracie was resting during lunchtime and chose not to disturb her.


    As the clock crept toward half past one, Sonia got up to fetch Gracie so they could leave on time. A gentle knock at the office door went unanswered, so she hesitantly let herself in.


    Across the room, Gracie¡¯s form appeared slumped over her desk, still and silent. Sonia muttered under her breath, ¡°There¡¯s a lounge for naps, you know.¡± Hurried steps brought her right up to Gracie¡¯s side. ¡°Miss Wilson, we need to set off for Waldo¡¯spany now,¡± she said, hoping to rouse her.


    But no movement came from Gracie. Sonia called her name several more times without getting any response, realizing something was wrong. She rounded the desk, only to freeze in shock. Gracie¡¯s left arm dangled limply, and beneath her, a wide pool of blood had already dried into a dark, rming stain.


    Find exclusive stories at g¦Á?¦Ç¦Òv????s


    Panic gripped her as she took in Gracie¡¯s colorless cheeks and lips. Terror swept through Sonia. For a moment, she feared the worst¡ªthat Gracie might already be dead. Regret washed over her in a wave. She believed she should have checked in on Gracie sooner. How could she have ignored the warning signs?


    Even though the photo and gossip had been scrubbed from group chats, the ugly rumors still lingered in thepany. During lunch, though people had not openly talked about the photo, they were discreetly searching for Gracie in the cafeteria. Clearly, the situation had pushed her to her breaking point.


    Frantic now, Sonia¡¯s voice rang out, trembling with fear. ¡°Miss Wilson! Miss Wilson!¡±


    Several times, she tried shaking Gracie awake, but nothing happened. Panic rising, she leaned close and detected a weak breath. Not wasting a second, she sprinted straight to Ethan¡¯s office.


    Ethan¡¯s office door was closed, and he was texting Brenna.<fne0d9> Follow current nov?ls on FindN()vel</fne0d9>


    ¡°Can you stop by for a bit? There¡¯s something I want to show you.¡±


    Brenna replied, ¡°Why not just have ni bring it over to me?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s too big for ni to carry. You shoulde see it yourself,¡± Ethan responded.


    ¡°I¡¯ve got my hands full right now. I¡¯lle byter.¡±


    ¡°I can head over to your office instead,¡± Ethan replied.


    .


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 Chapter 1196

    ?Chapter 1196:


    Just then, a rapid session of knocks echoed in Ethan¡¯s office.


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell!¡± Sonia¡¯s voice trembled. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, Gracie has shed her wrist, trying tomit suicide.¡±


    Proper etiquette kept Sonia from barging in, so she raised her voice from outside, urgency clear in every word.


    Ethan heard her clearly and rushed out. ¡°What did you say just happened?¡± Disbelief colored his question.


    ¡°Miss Wilson is unconscious. She tried tomit suicide by shing her wrist,¡± Sonia exined, gesturing urgently toward Steven¡¯s office as she led Ethan there.


    Ethan quickly outpaced Sonia and rushed over. The concerned office staff followed him to help.<fn57b8> N?w ?ovel chapt?rs are published on find?novel</fn57b8>


    Neville and Rex also arrived after hearing the news.


    Once at Gracie¡¯s office, a chilling sight met them¡ªa pool of blood stained the floor.


    Ethan immediately checked for Gracie¡¯s pulse. ¡°She¡¯s still breathing! We have to get her to the hospital, now!¡±


    As he reached out to pick Gracie up, the thought of Brenna shed through his mind. Pulling back, he instructed, ¡°Neville, you carry her.¡± Without hesitation, Neville obeyed.


    A tense voice in the crowd asked, ¡°Is she going to die from blood loss?¡±


    ¡°Probably not,¡± came one uncertain reply.


    ¡°Nobody really knows,¡± another whispered.


    While they waited anxiously for the elevator, the director of the IT department arrived on the scene, his eyes widening at the sight of Gracie unconscious, the wound already crusted with dried blood.


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    Without wasting time, he gave Ethan his report. ¡°Thatpromising photo of Gracie was sent from a temporary ount¡ªno phone number, and the ount was deleted. We have no way to trace the sender.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°At least tell me if you know which floor it was sent from.¡±


    ¡°The ount activity was traced to this floor. Beyond that, we¡¯ve got nothing.¡± The nearby employees exchanged nces after hearing that.


    They wondered about the consequences for the culprit, knowing that at least dismissal was certain.


    Cold authority colored Ethan¡¯s words. ¡°Keep digging. If you can¡¯t handle something this simple, I¡¯ll have to question your ability. Failure will affect your year-end bonus.¡±


    A flicker of panic crossed the director¡¯s face. ¡°Understood. I¡¯ll get on it right away!¡±


    Ethan apanied Gracie to the hospital, waiting anxiously outside the emergency room with Neville.


    Roughly half an hour passed before the doors opened and Gracie was wheeled out.


    Gracie¡¯s face was pale, a blood transfusion bag hanging above her bed. She hadn¡¯t regained consciousness.


    Ethan¡¯s anxiety eased a little when he saw that she was still alive. ¡°Doctor, how is she?¡±


    .


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 Chapter 1197

    ?Chapter 1197:


    The doctor replied, ¡°She¡¯s out of immediate danger, but she has suffered major blood loss and needs time to regain her strength.¡±


    The reassurance was a smallfort, but Ethan worried that Gracie would still want to kill herself after she woke up.


    Ethan and Neville carefully wheeled Gracie into her hospital room. Seeing her lying in the hospital bed, so pale and fragile, Ethan frowned.


    For any other employee, he would simply notify their family toe stay with them and let the relevant department take care of the rest.


    But Gracie had no family in Vand. There was nobody to look after her but him. Left with no other choice, Ethan stayed at her side, settling quietly into the chair by her bed.


    Minutes ticked by before Gracie finally stirred awake.


    It took only about ten minutes before Gracie woke up.<fndb77> The rightful source is Find~Novel</fndb77>


    Seeing that, Neville quickly excused himself to fetch a doctor.


    The instant Gracie¡¯s eyesnded on Ethan¡¯s familiar face, herposure shattered. Tears streamed down her face. ¡°Why did you bother saving me? Why couldn¡¯t you just let me die? What¡¯s the point of living like this?¡±


    Swallowing his own irritation, Ethan forced himself to remain calm. ¡°If something¡¯s wrong, we can talk it out. Don¡¯t act impulsively. Doing something like this has real, serious consequences.¡±


    To Gracie, Ethan¡¯s words sounded cold, more like a scolding than any kind offort.


    ¡°Ethan, do you still think I¡¯m being dramatic?¡± she said. ¡°You really don¡¯t believe me, do you? It had to be Brenna who leaked that photo. I know I can¡¯t prove it, but she¡¯s the only person I¡¯ve ever had an issue with at work. She must think I am trying to steal you from her.¡±


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    Ethan didn¡¯t waver, his expression frosty. ¡°I¡¯ve already told you, she¡¯s not like that. The tech team traced the original post. It came from the ny-ninth floor, not from Brenna.¡±


    ¡°That can¡¯t be the case!¡± Gracie shouted at Ethan, frantic. ¡°You¡¯re wrong!¡±


    At that moment, a doctor hurried in, eyes shing with annoyance at Ethan. ¡°She needs rest. This is not the time for an argument. Why did you provoke her?¡±


    Ethan nced at the doctor, who was aplete stranger to him.


    The doctor shot Ethan a quick, assessing look, sensing his authoritative presence. ¡°Sir, I¡¯ll need you to step outside for a moment. I have a few questions for the patient.¡±


    Without a word, Ethan slipped out into the hallway. Pulling out his phone, he spotted a message from Brenna:


    ¡°I heard Gracie attempted suicide. Is it true?¡±


    Ethan didn¡¯t hesitate. He dialed her number right away.


    His tone stayed steady, though there was a chill in his eyes that eased just a little when Brenna answered the call.


    He said, ¡°Gracie indeed tried to take her life, but she¡¯s out of danger now. The doctor is inside her hospital room, asking her some questions.¡±


    Picking up on his bad mood, Brenna gently reassured him, ¡°Don¡¯t carry this weight, Ethan. You¡¯re not to me for this.¡±


    .


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 Chapter 1198

    ?Chapter 1198:


    Even though Brenna knew the photo scandal had pushed Gracie to the brink, she remained convinced she had nothing to do with it and that Ethan wasn¡¯t responsible either.


    A weight seemed to lift off Ethan¡¯s shoulders, and his trust in Brenna only grew stronger. He believed she was not the one who had spread that photo. ¡°I know. I will handle the matter. I¡¯m only in the hospital because Gracie has no family in this city. I have to take care of her.¡±


    He offered more details, wanting to make sure Brenna didn¡¯t get the wrong idea about his involvement with Gracie.


    Momentster, the doctor came out of the room. Ethan promised Brenna, ¡°I¡¯ll let you know if there are any new developments.¡±


    Then, after ending the call, he turned his attention to the doctor. ¡°How is she?¡±<fncea3> Discover more novels at find?novel</fncea3>


    The doctor paused before saying, ¡°May I ask, what is your rtionship to the patient?¡±


    Ethan nced into the room, seeing Gracie stare nkly up at the ceiling.


    Facing the doctor, he replied, ¡°I¡¯m her supervisor in thepany.¡±


    A flicker of surprise crossed the doctor¡¯s face. ¡°You¡¯re not her boyfriend? She mentioned your name three times and said she wanted you by her side during our entire conversation.¡±


    Ethan had no interest in discussing his private affairs, so he kept his silence. The doctor thought Ethan looked familiar but could not ce where they had met. But seeing how cold he was, the doctor decided not to ask.


    Keeping things straightforward, the doctor said, ¡°She has been diagnosed with depression and is currently on medication. Do your best not to upset her.¡± A frown¡­


    A crease appeared on Ethan¡¯s forehead as difort settled in. So, the doctor was suggesting that he shouldply with Gracie¡¯s wishes to avoid causing her any more stress?


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    He waspletely unwilling to do so.


    He responded coolly, ¡°Okay.¡±


    After a few more routine instructions, the doctor turned to leave, and Ethan had no follow-up questions.


    It was Neville who followed the doctor, asking for more details.


    ¡°Ethan,e inside. I want to speak with you.¡±


    Just as Ethan was preparing to leave, Gracie¡¯s voice called him back. Reluctantly, Ethan entered the room, feeling burdened by Gracie¡¯s situation, trapped without a way out.


    ¡°Focus on getting better,¡± he said. ¡°I¡¯ll make sure the issue with the photo is handled. I¡¯ll also arrange for a caregiver to help take care of you.¡±


    Realization flickered across Gracie¡¯s face as she sensed Ethan meant to leave. She reached for him, but he remained out of reach.


    Her voice was pleading. ¡°Don¡¯t leave me, Ethan. I don¡¯t want a stranger looking after me. I need you. You¡¯re the only one I have here. Please, I¡¯m begging you. Don¡¯t go.¡±


    ¡°Gracie, there¡¯s still a lot I need to take care of at work,¡± Ethan said.


    .


    .


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 Chapter 1199

    ?Chapter 1199:


    Gracie¡¯s face twisted with anguish. Ignoring the IV in her arm, she jolted forward to clutch Ethan¡¯s sleeve, tears streaming as she begged, ¡°Please don¡¯t go. I can¡¯t stand being without you, not even for a second.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s eyes caught the needle threatening to slip from her vein, and he walked toward her, frowning. ¡°You need to lie still. You¡¯re in the middle of a transfusion.¡±<fn27c4> Find the newest release on find{n}ovel</fn27c4>


    Gracie knew it, too. The pain hardly mattered; if anything, she weed it, hoping the sight of blood would make Ethan feel sympathy for her and keep him close.


    Long gone were her hopes of winning Ethan¡¯s love. Now, she just wanted to wedge herself between Ethan and Brenna. Even the smallest hint of trouble between them would feel like a victory to her.


    Clinging desperately to Ethan¡¯s hand, Gracie refused to let go, even as blood seeped onto the sheets.


    Neville rushed in, switched off the IV drip, and hurried to call a nurse.


    The nurse entered to find Gracie in tears, hysterical and deeply distressed. She red at Ethan. ¡°Sir, your girlfriend has depression. She can¡¯t handle stress right now. You need to be more patient and keep her calm.¡±


    A wave of frustration rolled over Ethan. Spotting the nurse¡¯s attire, he realized she was the head nurse. ¡°She¡¯s not my girlfriend; she¡¯s just my employee.¡±


    The head nurse brushed off his words. ¡°Regardless, you should still care about her well-being.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s temper nearly snapped. ¡°So just because she¡¯s unwell, I¡¯m supposed to give in to every demand? What if she wants to marry me, should I leave my actual girlfriend to do it?¡±


    The nurse cast a quick look at Gracie, sensing drama, but she said nothing as she quickly reinserted the IV.


    Once the needle was secure, she warned Ethan in a no-nonsense tone, ¡°Don¡¯t let her get upset again.¡±


    Your imagination begins with g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s©q?????


    Speechless, Ethan sat down, left with no option but to stay by Gracie¡¯s side.


    Neville slipped out in search of a professional caregiver.


    A quiet sense of satisfaction crept over Gracie. Rosie¡¯s advice had worked, confirming just how well she knew Ethan.


    She watched Ethan¡¯s frustrated expression and felt oddly triumphant. Her sobs grew louder as she said, ¡°Ethan, you really didn¡¯t have to save me. I just feel so empty; there¡¯s no meaning left in my life.¡±


    A crushing sense of humiliation pressed down on Gracie. Her words were carefully chosen, her breakdown an act, all designed to keep him tethered to her. ¡°When I remember how Brenna ripped my clothes off, and how people stood outside that changing room, seeing me like that¡­ I just want to disappear. They were taking photos and filming me; if even one of those pictures ends up online, I¡¯ll be ruined. The wholepany has already seen one of the photos. How am I supposed to show my face at work again? I just¡­ I don¡¯t want to live anymore.¡±


    Ethan could see how shaken Gracie was and didn¡¯t hesitate to make a promise. ¡°I¡¯ll handle this for you. I¡¯ll track down everyone who was there, and I¡¯ll make sure every photo and video gets deleted.¡±


    A wave of gratitude washed over Gracie. She felt better knowing Ethan was willing to fix things for her. Still, she kept sobbing. ¡°But the truth is, Brenna spread that photo in thepany! She hates me! She¡¯s your girlfriend, and she wants to see me destroyed. She will not stop until I am dead. She would definitely not cooperate. If you asked her to delete the photos, she would only post the rest. What should I do then?¡± she cried out, her voice trembling with usation.


    Gracie¡¯s constant crying grated on Ethan¡¯s nerves. ¡°I told you, Brenna was not the one who spread that photo,¡± he said firmly. ¡°She would never do something like that.¡±


    .


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 Chapter 1200

    ?Chapter 1200:


    Gracie shook her head, her face crumpling. ¡°No, you don¡¯t know her like I do. She¡¯s cruel. She tore my clothes and took those photos of my naked body herself. She¡¯s evil, Ethan. If she doesn¡¯t apologize to me, I swear I¡¯ll kill myself!¡± Her tone was sharp, her words aimed at driving a wedge between Ethan and Brenna. It didn¡¯t matter to her who truly leaked that photo. As far as she was concerned, with everything she had suffered, she had every right to use her misery as leverage against her enemy.


    Ethan clenched his jaw, frustration building, but the doctor¡¯s warning about Gracie¡¯s mental state echoed in his mind. Pushing her now was too risky, so he tried to soothe her. ¡°I¡¯ve already had the tech department look into it. The evidence is clear that Brenna didn¡¯t post that photo. Please, calm down. I¡¯ll find out who did this and make sure they face the consequences.¡±


    But Gracie refused to believe him. ¡°You¡¯re just protecting her! You are deceiving me. It was her; no one else hates me that much. If she doesn¡¯t apologize to me, I will kill myself, I mean it!¡±


    Ethan could see she was teetering on the edge of a breakdown, and although her demands grated on him, he had no choice but to give in, at least for now. ¡°Alright, alright, I will ask her toe and apologize. Please calm down. I will call her right away.¡±


    Ethan tried to pull his hand away, but Gracie gripped his fingers with determination, afraid that he would leave. ¡°You¡¯re making the call right now. I need to hear every word,¡± she said.


    With an exasperated sigh, Ethan shot her a sharp look. ¡°Alright. You need to let go first, though,¡± he said, annoyance flickering in his eyes.


    Reluctantly, Gracie loosened her hold. Still, she hovered close, watching for any sign he might bolt.


    When the line connected, Ethan¡¯s expression softened. ¡°What did you have for lunch today, Brenna?¡±


    Exclusive stories avable on g¦Áln¦Òv?ls


    Bringing up the trouble here would only weigh Brenna down. He didn¡¯t want to affect her mood.


    A warm and gentle reply came from Brenna. ¡°I made grilled fish today, plus an omelet and roast beef with mashed potatoes. What about you? What did you eat?¡±


    A faint smile appeared on Ethan¡¯s lips. ¡°Just had some sandwiches. Nothing fancy.¡±


    Watching the two of them chat like nothing was wrong made Gracie¡¯s blood boil. She couldn¡¯t stand how Ethan acted like none of this mattered.<fnf5e3> Discover more novels at F?nd-Novel</fnf5e3>


    Annoyance fueling her resolve, Gracie leaned in. ¡°Ethan, you need to tell her toe apologize to me right now,¡± she instructed.


    Ethan nced at Gracie before speaking to Brenna. ¡°I have a situation here. Could youe help me?¡±


    Brenna had heard Gracie¡¯s words. Lorna had already filled her in about Gracie¡¯s desperate actions and her trip to the hospital, and she had meant to ask Ethan about it.


    Brenna said, ¡°Is there anything in this world that you can¡¯t handle on your own?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing big. Just something small,¡± he answered.


    Brenna slid her phone from the desk, grabbed her bag, and announced, ¡°Alright, I¡¯m heading over. Just send the address my way.¡±


    Without hesitation, she left.


    .


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 Chapter 1201

    ?Chapter 1201:


    Right on cue, Greta appeared in the doorway, concern creasing her brow. ¡°Boss, are you heading out now? We¡¯ve got the smart prosthetics project to talk through, and Mr. Barker¡¯s assembly line keeps running into trouble. Should we think about changing contractors?¡±


    Brenna looked at Greta, who appeared serious with a file in hand. Her recent gloomy expression hadpletely vanished. Brenna thought for a moment before saying, ¡°You can sort that out with the vice president. I have to be somewhere else right now.¡±


    Thiago could handlepany matters, and Brenna rarely dealt with such details. With that, she left Greta to find Thiago.


    At the hospital, Brenna found Ethan sitting by Gracie¡¯s bed, looking resigned. Sitting on the bed, Gracie poked listlessly at her food. A cold smile touched Brenna¡¯s lips as she moved closer.


    ¡°It¡¯s good to see you eating again. I really did think you had died,¡± she remarked, a teasing note in her voice as her eyes flicked to the fresh bandages on Gracie¡¯s wrist.


    With the IV drip finished and a meal in her belly, Gracie had finally regained some color, her cheeks no longer pale. She had expected Brenna to apologize to her, but Brenna¡¯s harsh words suggested otherwise. Gracie¡¯s eyes brimmed with tears as she looked at Ethan. He simply watched, not stepping in, not stopping Brenna. Gracie realized Ethan was taking Brenna¡¯s side.


    Tears spilling over, Gracie let her frustration tumble out. ¡°Ethan, she took humiliating photos of me, spread one all over the office, and then mocked me for it. Yet, she is still saying harsh words to me. I might as well just die!¡±


    Jaw clenched, Ethan nced Brenna¡¯s way, then quickly rose to his feet. ¡°I¡¯m out of options with her. You handle this.¡± With Gracie distracted, he took the opportunity to slip quietly from the room.


    Brenna fixed her gaze on Gracie. ¡°Did it ever cross your mind that Ethan never once questioned why I took those pictures? Do you really think he buys everything you tell him?¡±


    Gracie froze, suddenly remembering that the three vice presidents had witnessed the incident that day. Still, she held onto the hope that none of them really understood her true intentions.


    ¡°Brenna, Ethan told you to apologize to me, so do it properly this time. If you refuse, I won¡¯t hesitate to try to kill myself again. What are you going to do then?¡± Gracie said.


    A mocking grin spread across Brenna¡¯s face. ¡°You want to die? Be my guest. If you die, that will finally get you off my back. Do you seriously believe that kind of threat scares me?¡±


    Not bothering to hide her contempt, Brenna shook her head. ¡°Honestly, how can you be so foolish? Why should I care if you die? If you really want to die, then don¡¯t hold back. Next time, try shing your wrist a bit deeper or hide out somewhere no one will find you. Otherwise, people are just going to say you¡¯re not serious about dying and just looking for sympathy. But if you¡¯re not actually nning to die, stop with these tricks. I¡¯m not the kind of person you can threaten easily.¡±<fn1e00> ???s ??????? ?s ?????? ?? find?novel</fn1e00>


    Rage boiled inside Gracie. Never had she nned to end her life for real. She¡¯d calcted everything down to the second¡ªthe timing and the depth of the cut. Pulling at Ethan¡¯s sympathy was her real goal, and this was the best tactic she coulde up with.


    .


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 Chapter 1202

    ?Chapter 1202:


    Gracie¡¯s voice cracked as she snapped, ¡°How can you be so heartless, Brenna? I tried to take my own life, and you just stand there saying things that make me want to jump off a building right now!¡±


    ¡°Go ahead and jump,¡± said Brenna, her voice like ice as she moved out of the way.


    Gracie fixed her gaze on Brenna, stunned by her bold demeanor.


    How could Brenna behave as if her life held no value?<fn38e3> Read full story at F?nd-Novel</fn38e3>


    This wasn¡¯t how things were supposed to unfold.


    Caught off guard, Gracie just looked at Brenna for a prolonged moment.


    Brenna shot Gracie a scornful look. ¡°I knew you would never go through with it. You¡¯re not serious about dying. If you truly meant to end it all, you wouldn¡¯t have cut your wrist in your office, would you? It¡¯s all a performance for attention!¡±


    She looked down on Gracie. ¡°If you really wanted to die, you would have done it when the Wilson Group copsed. Why wait until now?¡±


    Gracie faltered. ¡°That¡¯s nonsense! Brenna, how can you be so heartless? You think my suicide attempt was a stunt? That¡¯s cruel.¡±


    She turned to look out the hospital room window, staring for several seconds but ultimately deciding not to approach it. Without another word, Brenna left the room.


    Gracie felt utterly defeated. Was this n doomed to fail as well?


    As Brenna walked out, Gracie walked toward the window. She found that the hospital windows were designed to open only a crack, a safeguard against suicide attempts.


    Gracie cursed herself for not acting sooner to prove her resolve to die in front of Brenna, to show she wasn¡¯t just pretending.


    She should have rushed to the window to jump off earlier instead of doing nothing out of fear.


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    What a missed opportunity!


    She tugged at the window with frantic, forceful movements, trying to open it wider.


    Brenna nced back at her, standing there without any intention of intervening. Ethan lingered beside Brenna for a moment before they both walked away.


    Unable to budge the window, Gracie gave up and copsed onto the hospital bed. After some time, she rushed to the door, only to find Brenna and Ethan long gone. She mmed the door shut and dialed Rosie on her phone.


    ¡°You always know how to handle things,¡± Ethan said to Brenna with admiration. ¡°I hesitated to tell you, but Gracie imed you had leaked that photo and demanded an apology from you.¡±


    Brenna rolled her eyes. ¡°So you tricked me intoing here?¡±


    Ethanughed lightly. ¡°Not quite. I knew you would be smart enough to handle her.¡±


    Ethan praised Brenna again before calling Neville to say there was no need for a caregiver. He then sought out Gracie¡¯s doctor to discuss her discharge. He asked, ¡°Dr. rk, is it necessary for her to stay hospitalized?¡±


    ¡°Once the IV is finished, she can go home. The patient has depression, so it¡¯s wise not to agitate her,¡± the doctor replied.


    Ethan raised an eyebrow. ¡°I don¡¯t buy that she¡¯s depressed. I think she¡¯s faking it.¡±


    The doctor gave him a curious look. ¡°What makes you say that?¡±


    Ethan recounted Brenna¡¯s conversation with Gracie.


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 Chapter 1203

    ?Chapter 1203:


    The doctor felt resigned. ¡°Depression needs a psychiatrist¡¯s diagnosis, and I¡¯m no psychiatrist. The patient says she is depressed and has been on antidepressants. You should tread carefully¡ªprovoking her like that was risky.¡±


    After confirming no further hospitalization was needed for Gracie, Ethan and Brenna returned to her hospital room, only to find it empty.


    Gracie was gone, her phone left on the bed.


    Ethan nced up and saw that the window ss was shattered.


    ¡°Did she jump?¡± he gasped, a wave of panic hitting him as he raced to the window and peered down.


    Relief washed over him¡ªno body was on the ground below.


    Brenna grabbed Gracie¡¯s phone, quickly unlocked it, and scrolled through the call logs. She found Gracie had beenmunicating with Rosie, though only through voice or video calls, with no text messages.


    Brenna suspected Rosie might be tied to Gracie¡¯s suicide attempt.


    Ethan joined her and took the phone, and together, they sifted through Gracie¡¯s social media and call history.


    ¡°What is Rosie up to?¡± Ethan muttered, his expression darkening as he recognized some other numbers in the logs.


    Brenna¡¯s tone was icy. ¡°Gracie¡¯s not as innocent as she seems.¡±


    ¡°Who said you could touch my phone?¡± Gracie stormed out of the bathroom, snatching it from Ethan¡¯s hands, getting livid seeing that it had been unlocked.


    ¡°How dare you vite my privacy like this?¡±


    She was worried, panicking over what Ethan might have seen in her phone.


    Ethan stayedposed. ¡°We came back and saw the broken ss, and you were gone. I thought you might have tried to hurt yourself again. When I couldn¡¯t find you, I checked your phone to figure out where you went.¡±


    Read all updates at g?ln¦Òv?ls


    Gracie¡¯s panic eased slightly. ¡°I was just in the bathroom. I smashed the ss in a fit of anger. I wasn¡¯t going to kill myself.¡±


    Gracie felt worried, unsure of what information Ethan and Brenna might have discovered from her phone.


    Scrolling through her phone, she breathed a sigh of relief when she saw there was nothing sensitive. There were messages from people asking about buying shares, but without any names saved, Ethan would have no way to identify them. Her chats with Rosie happened over voice or video calls, so there were no messages left behind.<fn4341> Read full story at find?novel</fn4341>


    She felt relieved, grateful for her cautious habits and Rosie¡¯s discretion.


    Rosie¡¯s advice echoed in her mind ¡ª she should y the victim to win sympathy. But Gracie, having always lived as a cherished princess, struggled to show weakness.


    She tried to rehearse what to say, but no matter how many times she practiced, she couldn¡¯t make herself say those things.


    Ethan stood near the window with Brenna, their closeness impossible to ignore. The way Ethan looked at Brenna, so soft and gentle, made his coldness toward Gracie even more apparent.


    Thinking of Rosie¡¯s encouragement made Gracie feel a little better. Even though Ethan knew how she felt, he and Brenna made no effort to hide their affection in front of her.


    So why should she hold back anymore? Why not use her own sadness to turn the situation around?


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 Chapter 1204

    ?Chapter 1204:


    She stared at her phone, hoping she could force out some tears, but none woulde.


    Ethan walked over, his voice t and distant. ¡°The doctor says your health checks out. You¡¯re free to go now. We didn¡¯t check you in as an inpatient, so we can just leave without handling any paperwork.¡±


    Hearing Ethan¡¯s cold tone made Gracie more determined than ever to act. After what she¡¯d done, she couldn¡¯t let this opportunity slip away.


    She nodded, wanting to appear sympathetic butcking a proper reason, so she simply followed Ethan out, saying, ¡°Alright, I will do as you say.¡±


    Outside, Ethan¡¯s car waited. Neville opened the front passenger door and nced at Ethan, wanting him to take the front seat so that he wouldn¡¯t have to worry about Gracie insisting on sitting next to him.


    The same idea crossed Ethan¡¯s mind as he pulled open the rear door for Brenna and said, ¡°The back seat¡¯s yours.¡±


    Brenna epted his suggestion without a second thought. Just as Brenna was about to climb in, Gracie turned to Ethan and said, ¡°Ethan, I want to ride in the back with you. I need you next to me.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s face grew cold. She locked eyes with Ethan, then answered, ¡°No, Ethan is my boyfriend; you don¡¯t get to sit with him. You have two options: he can sit in front, and I¡¯ll take the back with you. Or you sit in front, and Ethan and I share the back. It¡¯s up to you.¡±


    Atst, Gracie¡¯s tears fell. Feeling wronged but pretending to be understanding, she said, ¡°Right, I forgot you two are together. That¡¯s on me. It¡¯s fine; I¡¯ll take the front seat. You can have the back to yourselves, and I¡¯ll just mind my own business. I shouldn¡¯t have said anything. My fault.¡±


    Without another word, she slid into the front seat, shoulders shaking as she tried to hold back her sobs.


    g¦Áln¦Ò¦Í?ls has fresh updates for you


    Brenna shot Ethan another look and, without sugarcoating her words, said in front of Gracie, ¡°So you¡¯ve switched your tactic now?¡± She climbed into the back seat, and Ethan followed her.


    With tears still streaming, Gracie faced Brenna. ¡°Say whatever you want. I¡¯m not here to argue. My depression pushed me to try something foolish, and I know it was wrong. I¡¯ve caused enough trouble for everyone, and I won¡¯t let it happen again. Next time I want to end it all, I will do it quietly in my home. That way, no one will say I am just doing it because I want attention.¡±


    Ethan, though more and more put off by Gracie, couldn¡¯t ignore the tough spot she was in and found a bit of sympathy for her. ¡°Don¡¯t talk like that. I¡¯ll make arrangements for a maid to take care of you,¡± he responded, feeling it was the only thing he could realistically do. He couldn¡¯t be there for her every day, after all.


    Gracie surprised Ethan and Brenna by saying, ¡°Don¡¯t worry about me. I¡¯ll be alright. There was a time when I had help with everything, but that¡¯s gone, and now, I¡¯m paying off debts. I¡¯ve figured out how to take care of myself. Ethan, your mother taught me how to cook, so I¡¯m eating just fine on my own now.¡± A forced smile appeared as she wiped away her tears. ¡°Really, you don¡¯t have to be concerned about me. I can take care of myself.¡±


    Brenna looked at Gracie with a cold smile, noticing how different her demeanor was now.


    Even so, she decided not to say anything to Ethan, wanting to see for herself how he would respond.


    Ethan noticed something was amiss with Gracie. Holding his phone, he pondered for a moment but ultimately remained silent. He held Brenna¡¯s hand, exchanged a nce with her, and patted her hand reassuringly.<fna968> Updates are released by f?i?n?d?n?o?v?e?l?</fna968>


    .


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 Chapter 1205

    ?Chapter 1205:


    As the engine purred to life, Ethan leaned forward and said to Neville in an even tone, ¡°Head to the office first.¡±


    Gracie felt disappointed by that. Spinning around, she blinked away tears and fixed her gaze on Ethan. ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about me. I know you¡¯re busy, and I can get home by myself. I promise I won¡¯t do anything foolish,¡± she said, forcing a small, brave smile.


    After that, she turned to the window and lost herself in the city whirring by. Brenna¡¯s lips tightened. What exactly was Gracie ying at now? Wasn¡¯t she guilt-tripping Ethan for not offering to take her home?


    Clearly, Gracie¡¯s real intention was to make Ethan feel guilty enough to drop everything and take care of her.


    A subtle squeeze from Brenna¡¯s hand drew Ethan¡¯s attention, and when their eyes met, Brenna could tell he saw straight through Gracie¡¯s ploy. He simply chose to feign ignorance.<fn34a3> The rightful source is find?novel</fn34a3>


    Gracie waited for quite a while, but even as the car stopped at the Mitchell Group building, Ethan did not offer to take her home. Instead, he got out of the car with Brenna.


    Disappointment washed over Gracie, and she thought that Rosie¡¯s advice had gotten her nowhere this time.


    Neville then drove Gracie home, and on the way, Gracie wanted to message Rosie.


    But then, she remembered how Brenna had managed to get into her phone at the hospital. Unease gnawed at her, and she deleted her message before hitting send.


    Brenna entered the building with Ethan.


    Alec quickly approached them.


    Seeing Ethan and Brenna together made Alec smile. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, how¡¯s Miss Wilson doing? You rushed her to the hospital earlier, didn¡¯t you? Is she alright now?¡±


    Your journey begins on g?ln¦Ò¦Íe??s


    Technically, Alec worked for Rosie, but he could see the wind changing. If Ethan ever offered him a better deal, he was ready to jump ship.


    If Brenna treated him well enough to ensure afortable retirement, he would also consider pledging loyalty to her. He was counting on them. Ethan¡¯s response was cold but courteous. ¡°She¡¯s fine now. The doctors got to her in time, and she had a transfusion. Neville already took her home.¡± That hint of courtesy was enough for Alec. It gave him just enough dignity in front of his colleagues.


    Most security staff rarely got to speak with the CEO at all, and Alec relished every second of this conversation.


    ¡°It¡¯s a relief to hear that. Mr. Mitchell, the workday¡¯s almost over¡ªwhat brings you back at this hour?¡± Alec said, wanting to prolong the chat.


    Brenna¡¯s presence prompted Ethan to stay polite to Alec. ¡°There¡¯s still some work left to do, and I¡¯ve got ns for tonight.¡±


    Ethan stopped in front of the elevator, and Alec stepped forward to tap the button for him.


    ¡°Heading somewhere special tonight, Mr. Mitchell?¡± Alec asked, curiosity getting the better of him.


    ¡°ze Bar,¡± Ethan replied, offering no extra details.


    Not a word escaped Brenna, who kept her expression cold and her eyes fixed ahead.


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 Chapter 1206

    ?Chapter 1206:


    The elevator doors slid shut, and only then did Brenna let out her frustration. ¡°Why bother ying nice with Alec? He¡¯s on Rosie¡¯s side. He sold me out for a bit of cash and turned on me without a second thought.¡±


    Ethan tightened his hold on her hand, voice steady and reassuring. ¡°You don¡¯t have to remind me what kind of person Alec is. I know all about how he treated you. The man will do anything for money. Believe me, I¡¯m not fooled by him.¡±


    Alec strolled back to the security office with a spring in his step, already reaching for his phone to call Rosie and spill every detail he¡¯d just learned. Minutester, his bank ount chimed with a fresh twenty thousand from Rosie.


    Whistling to himself, Alec lookedpletely satisfied with his easy windfall.


    That evening, Ethan arrived at ze Bar as nned. Despite being just a bar, it was upscale and private, with the first floor serving as the public space and private rooms upstairs, offeringprehensive services.


    Ethan was meeting a business partner from Norview, as the Mitchell Group had recentlyunched a drone advertisement. This business partner, Kiaan Harry, was one of the first customers, and there were many details to discuss, mainly regarding pricing. Kiaan wanted a lower price.


    Milton apanied Ethan, and the two settled into a private room to talk business over drinks.


    During a quick trip to the restroom, Ethan caught sight of a woman¡¯s figure just as she slipped into thedies¡¯ room. She looked familiar.


    He muttered to himself, ¡°Was that Gracie? Shouldn¡¯t she be at home recovering?¡± The shadowy figure kept nagging at him, but he convinced himself it might just be a lookalike.


    Returning to the private room, Ethan happened to spot the same woman heading into another room. He almost felt certain this time it was Gracie. Worried she might be wrapped up in business she shouldn¡¯t be handling, Ethan dialed her number.


    L?t??¦Ó ?§ß¦Á¦Ñ¦Ó?rs ¦Én g??l??ov?ls.??????


    A wide grin broke across Gracie¡¯s face when she saw Ethan¡¯s name pop up on her phone screen. ¡°Hey, Ethan! Is something wrong?¡±


    Without preamble, Ethan asked, ¡°Where are you right now?¡±


    A pause lingered as Gracie scrambled for an answer. ¡°I¡¯m¡­ at home. Just rxing,¡± she said, following Rosie¡¯s advice to lie. She then asked, ¡°Anything wrong?¡±


    ¡°Alright then. I thought I saw someone who looked like you, but I must have been mistaken,¡± Ethan replied. ¡°Get some rest.¡±


    Inside the private room, Rosie was present as well.


    A furrow formed on Gracie¡¯s brow. ¡°What¡¯s the point of all this? Why bother letting him see a shadow if he won¡¯t even realize I¡¯m here? Rosie, I can¡¯t see how this is supposed to help me.¡±


    Rosie spun the wine ss between her fingers, an amused smirk tugging at her lips as she regarded Gracie with thinly veiled disdain. ¡°Must you always be so impatient? Don¡¯t you ever wonder why I go to such lengths to involve you in my schemes?¡±


    Years spent as the daughter of a powerful family had taught Gracie to read beneath the surface. She suspected that Rosie wanted to sabotage Ethan¡¯s business deal.


    ¡°Are you trying to use me to sabotage Ethan¡¯s business?¡± Gracie said.


    .


    .<fn56a1> Checktest chapters at find[?]ovel</fn56a1>


    .

 Chapter 1207

    ?Chapter 1207:


    A gentle shake of Rosie¡¯s head followed. ¡°Wrong. You really do have a low opinion of me. I¡¯m not here to y the viin. I¡¯m trying to help you, believe it or not. My goal is to see you win.¡±


    Uncertainty still clouded Gracie¡¯s features. Nothing about Rosie ever seemed straightforward. She believed Rosie was scheming and malicious.


    ¡°I just want to clear my debts. I cannot see how what I am doing tonight helps with that,¡± Gracie said.<fndbd6> Content originallyes from find{n}ovel</fndbd6>


    A sudden interruption came when Maxley entered the room, trailed by a sharp-looking assistant who clutched a folder.


    ¡°Miss Wilson, a pleasure to meet you. I¡¯ve heard much about you.¡± Maxley shook Gracie¡¯s hand.


    Gracie met his greeting with measured politeness. ¡°Prince Maxley, it¡¯s a pleasure to meet you. Is there something specific you two need from me tonight?¡±


    Taking a seat beside Rosie, Maxley exchanged a sly nce with her, a silent message passing between them.


    His tone left little room for misunderstanding. ¡°Word has it you¡¯re carrying close to ten billion in debt, Miss Wilson. Is that true?¡±


    A resigned sigh slipped from Gracie¡¯s lips. ¡°Unfortunately, that¡¯s the truth. At this rate, I don¡¯t know when I¡¯ll ever pay it off.¡±


    Maxley took the document from the secretary and handed it to Gracie. ¡°Take a look at this.¡±


    Flipping open the folder, Gracie¡¯s eyes caught the bold title: ¡°Equity Transfer Agreement.¡±


    One nce told her everything. Rosie¡¯s sudden kindness, her recent support¡­ It had all led to this moment: an attempt to buy her shares of the Mitchell Group.


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    Her three percent stake was nothing small, worth at least thirty billion on the open market.


    Selling off those shares would wipe her debts away instantly, but it would also mean giving up herst connection to Ethan. She had no intention of selling her shares at all.


    Gracie shut the folder with finality, then handed it back to Maxley. ¡°I¡¯m not going to sell my shares. That¡¯s final.¡±


    Although selling the shares would immediately clear her debts, she preferred to use the yearly dividends to gradually pay them off.


    Without missing a beat, Maxley slid the folder back and pointed out the sum printed on the page. ¡°I¡¯m offering fifty billion for your three percent, Gracie. You¡¯d be wise to think it over.¡±


    A growing realization dawned on Gracie. Rosie and Maxley weren¡¯t simply after a few shares; they wanted a seat at the board table, maybe even a shot at controlling the Mitchell Group.


    Ambition radiated from them, and it wasn¡¯t subtle.


    Despite her resentment toward Ethan and the absence of love in their rtionship, Gracie couldn¡¯t bring herself to harm him this way.


    Handing over her shares might not topple thepany, but she knew Rosie harbored a deeper grudge against Ethan than she did.


    Disaster was certain if Rosie ever got her hands on those shares; Ethan would undoubtedly suffer.


    .


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 Chapter 1208

    ?Chapter 1208:


    A firm answer left Gracie¡¯s lips. ¡°My answer is no. I won¡¯t sell my shares.¡±


    Rosie was quick to counter. ¡°There¡¯s no need to make up your mind so quickly. Take a month; think about it. We can negotiate the terms. Maybe you just part with one percent of your stake instead of all three. And the price is up for discussion.¡±<fna73d> Newest update provided by find[?]ovel</fna73d>


    With that, Rosie finished her wine and left with Maxley at her side.


    Irritation simmered in Gracie¡¯s chest as she watched them leave, the truth settling in: Rosie¡¯s so-called help came with strings attached.


    She felt she had already fallen into Rosie¡¯s trap.


    Feeling angry, she grabbed her bag and made for the exit.


    She had not expected that upon opening the door, she would hear Ethan talking to someone in the corridor. She quickly closed the door, terrified of being seen by him.


    The next day, Gracie wore a long-sleeved jacket to cover the bandage on her wrist.


    Sonia, her secretary, was shocked when she saw her at work.


    ¡°Why aren¡¯t you resting at home? Your injury¡¯s still fresh.¡±


    Frost edged Gracie¡¯s reply. ¡°It¡¯s fine. I¡¯m not going to sit at home. We worked too hard to win Waldo¡¯s contract. I¡¯m not letting the deal slip away now.¡±


    A quick nod came from Sonia. ¡°You¡¯re right. The three vice presidents spent months haggling with Mr. Chapman, but he always found a reason to refuse. As soon as you stepped in, the deal was sealed. You turned everything around.¡±


    Another concern rose to Gracie¡¯s mind. ¡°Has thepany figured out who leaked that photo?¡±


    Sonia nodded. ¡°IT tracked it to Terry Vance in the secretarial office. He has been fired and is packing his things. Would you like to see him before he leaves, Miss Wilson?¡±


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    The news caught Gracie off guard. ¡°It wasn¡¯t Brenna?¡±


    Gracie stared at Sonia in disbelief. ¡°How could it not be Brenna?¡±


    She had med Brenna for the matter for a long time. Learning now that Brenna was innocent left her struggling to process everything.


    Then, a new suspicion quickly formed in her mind. ¡°Brenna must have asked Terry to do it. I see how it is. Go ahead and give me his details.¡±


    Without another word, Sonia turned and walked away. Before long, Terry¡¯s details were sent to Gracie¡¯s phone.


    As she read through the information, Gracie saw that Terry was thirty-one years old and had worked at the Mitchell Group for more than three years, serving as a secretary without any major mistakes.


    Nothing about this made sense to her. She had never even heard his name before, so why would he go out of his way to spread that humiliating photo of her?


    After thinking it over, Gracie became convinced that Terry was simply following orders, and the person behind it all had to be Brenna.


    Half an hour went by after Terry left, but no one from Ethan¡¯s office came to exin anything to her.


    Each passing minute made Gracie even angrier; she was certain that Ethan was protecting Brenna by refusing to act.


    Fed up, she marched straight into Ethan¡¯s office, where Neville and Rex were also present, and Ethan appeared to be giving them a stern warning.


    .


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 Chapter 1209

    ?Chapter 1209:


    Gracie stood near the door, catching Ethan¡¯s voice as it cut through the room. ¡°If this happens one more time, consider both your annual sry and bonus gone.¡±


    With a downcast look, Rex answered, ¡°Sir, Terry keeps saying he worked alone. No one told him what to do. He ims he just couldn¡¯t tolerate Miss Wilson and thought she didn¡¯t deserve her position. He says he did what he thought was right.¡±


    Without waiting, Gracie pushed open the door and interjected sharply, ¡°He¡¯s lying!¡±


    Regret filled her. She should havee sooner and confronted Terry the moment she heard what he had done.


    Putting her trust in Ethan to resolve things had been a mistake. Ethan looked at her, a small frown on his face. ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    Anger sharpened Gracie¡¯s voice. ¡°If I hadn¡¯t shown up, were you just going to let this matter slide? Why did you let Terry leave? You should have called the police on him!¡±


    With a gesture, Ethan motioned for her to take the seat across from him, then spoke calmly. ¡°The tech department already confirmed that the photo came from Terry¡¯s phone. He acted on his own.¡±


    Holding her head high, Gracie said, ¡°No, there¡¯s no way he did it alone! I don¡¯t even know him. Why would hee after me? Ethan, the only person here who¡¯s ever had a grudge against me is Brenna. Stop trying to cover for her!¡±


    Ethan¡¯s eyes shifted toward Neville and Rex. They had already questioned Terry earlier, and Terry had imed that Brenna was the one who told him what to do. But Ethan didn¡¯t believe that.


    Records confirmed that Terry had indeed had contact with Brenna using his phone.


    Even so, Ethan refused to believe Brenna would do something like this. He had intended to look into the matter himself until Gracie interrupted his ns. Not wanting to use Brenna without solid proof, Ethan kept the information from Gracie for the time being.


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    Neville and Rex kept quiet nearby, waiting for instructions.


    Ethan asked them to step out of the room.


    Then, turning back to Gracie, he said, ¡°This is moreplicated than it seems. Please give me some time to get to the bottom of it.¡±


    A heavy sigh escaped Gracie. ¡°Are you hiding something from me? Brenna was the one who asked Terry to leak that photo, right?¡±


    Ethan shook his head firmly. ¡°No, Brenna would never do something so underhanded. I need to investigate more before drawing conclusions.¡±


    Gracie¡¯s disappointment grew when she heard that. ¡°There¡¯s nothing more to say. You¡¯re protecting Brenna, Ethan. You have no idea how much this hurts me. How can you be so biased?¡±


    In frustration, she grabbed his arm. ¡°Come with me now. Let¡¯s ask Brenna face-to-face. If she¡¯s guilty, I¡¯ll call the police myself. I won¡¯t let her off!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s enough! Do you have any proof at all that Brenna was behind the matter?¡± Ethan snapped.


    Seeing him like this, Gracie became convinced that he knew more than he was admitting and was trying to cover for Brenna.


    ¡°If you refuse to do anything, I¡¯ll handle it myself!¡± she said, her voice rising. ¡°Once I find evidence, there will be nothing you can do to protect her. Just wait and see!¡±


    With that, Gracie stormed out of the office.


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 Chapter 1210

    Chapter 1210:


    Irritated, Ethan made his way to the fifty-eighth floor to see Brenna, but Brenna was not there.


    Back in her own office, Gracie began putting together a n to make Terry reveal the true culprit.


    She realized she would need help. Alone at her desk, she weighed her options, unsure whether to trust Waldo or Rosie more.


    It didn¡¯t take long for her to recall that Waldo always yed his cards close to his chest, while Rosie was generous with advice and help in any situation. But Gracie didn¡¯t like the fact that Rosie was trying to buy her shares at the Mitchell Group.


    She believed that neither Waldo nor Rosie was a good person.


    Gracie felt deeply conflicted, taking some time before deciding to handle the matter herself.


    When she had been the daughter of the CEO of the Wilson Group, she had been well-versed in the murky underworld of the dark web, where the corporation¡¯s illicit dealings flourished. In her days of opulence, she had maintained a secret ount there, asionally dipping into its shadowy arsenal to quietly undermine her adversaries.


    A flicker of memory stirred. She knew a substantial fortune was still in that ount.


    Cognizant of the Mitchell Group¡¯s tech department monitoring thepany¡¯s inte, Gracie chose to execute her n at home.


    She quickly gathered her belongings and slipped away from the office. In the quiet of her residence, she plunged into the ndestine depths of the dark web, confirming her ount held over seven million.


    The marketce of the dark web teemed with bounties, their rewards ranging from modest thousands to astronomical sums.


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    Gracie¡¯s gaze snagged on the grandest prize. A 300-million-dor bounty for a cyberstrike against an enigmatic organization.


    Intrigued, she clicked on it, only to find the details veiled, essible only upon eptance, with crucial information revealed in person.


    Despite its tantalizing draw, no one had imed the task, and Gracie, mindful of her limits, moved on.


    With practiced finesse, she crafted a concise post on the dark web, seeking assistance to apprehend and extract a confession from the individual responsible for leaking her photo.


    ¡°Locate and interrogate the target for answers.¡± She offered a reward of two hundred thousand, then shut down herputer.


    Swapping her phone¡¯s SIM for an older one, Gracie steeled herself for the person who epted the mission to call her.


    Within half an hour, her phone rang with an iing call.


    A distorted voice rasped, ¡°I¡¯ll take the job. Send me the details.¡±


    No stranger to such dealings, Gracie disguised her voice. ¡°Okay, but I insist on being present for the questioning.¡±


    ¡°Done,¡± the voice replied smoothly. ¡°We¡¯ll send the address once we find the target.¡±


    As dusk cloaked the city around seven, Terry went into the underground garage, his carden with groceries from a supermarket run. As he stepped out of his car, his phone lit up with a call.


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    .


    .<hr>


    Message from Noah: Great wednesday loved ones. God loves you and Noah wishes you all the best. (? ?? ? ¨C ? ) ?


    .

 Chapter 1211

    ?Chapter 1211:


    His heart raced as he answered the call. ¡°Miss Harper, the job is done. Do you need anything else?¡±


    Rosie¡¯s tone was steady yetmanding. ¡°You¡¯re about to be beaten up and interrogated. If they ask you who told you to leak that photo, stick to the story. Say you were coerced. Say you received a call threatening your family.


    Understood? Remember the details I shared¡­¡±


    Her instructions flowed for several minutes, each word deliberate.


    Terry¡¯s nerves unraveled after he ended the call. After all, he was about to be beaten up.


    His hands trembled as he grabbed his shopping bag, filled with takeout to celebrate a generous payment received earlier.


    After he locked his car, the garage was swallowed by darkness, its lights extinguished in a heartbeat.


    Before he could reach for his phone¡¯s light, a searing beam pierced the shadows.


    Shielding his eyes, Terry discerned five figures in ck hoodies and masks, each holding an iron club.


    ¡°Who are you? What do you want?¡± Terry¡¯s voice quavered, though he had braced for trouble.


    Sensing their malevolent intent, Terry instinctively retreated. After a few steps, he collided with an unseen obstacle. Whirling around, he was confronted by more figures d in hoodies and masks, closing in behind him.


    Without a moment¡¯s warning, they descended upon Terry, unleashing a relentless barrage of blows with clubs, fists, and boots.<fn0481> Checktest chapters at f?ndnovel</fn0481>


    Terry¡¯s screams echoed through the garage until the onught finally stopped, leaving him unable to move.


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    ¡°Who paid you to leak Miss Wilson¡¯s photo?¡± a voice demanded, sharp as a de.


    From a nearby car, Gracie observed the scene, her phone recording every second.


    Her resolve was irond. She would secure evidence against Brenna. Writhing in agony, Terry confessed, ¡°Brenna. She paid me two million and also told me to vanish abroad after doing that.¡±


    The leader of the masked figuresnded a vicious kick on Terry. ¡°No lies! Show us proof!¡±


    Grimacing, Terry gestured to his phone. ¡°Check my phone¡ªthe call logs, the transfers, they are all there. I¡¯m telling the truth.¡±


    A triumphant glint sparked in Gracie¡¯s eyes as she recorded the scene. ¡°Finally, some evidence. Brenna, you will pay for this.¡±


    Gracie could hardly contain her satisfaction with how the day had ended. As she watched the recorded video, she imagined the police arriving to take Brenna away in handcuffs.


    When she got home, the first thing she did was pick up her phone and dial Rosie.


    ¡°I finally have proof this time. I am going to report Brenna and make sure she pays for what she did!¡± Gracie¡¯s excitement came through loud and clear.


    Loungingfortably in her bathtub, Rosie maintained herposure and smiled with quiet confidence. ¡°You can¡¯t do that,¡± she replied.


    Confusion shed across Gracie¡¯s face, and her tone grew louder. ¡°Why not? I have all the evidence I need. There¡¯s no way Brenna can walk away from this.¡±


    .


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 Chapter 1212

    ?Chapter 1212:


    A sharp, coldugh escaped Rosie. ¡°You really don¡¯t get it, do you? Brenna is backed by one of the most powerful families in Shirie. She has influence everywhere, and her boyfriend can make anything disappear. Even if she took someone¡¯s life, the Harper family and Ethan would cover it up without a second thought. You need to think about this carefully.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s wordsnded like a heavy blow. Gracie remembered when her family had been wealthy, and how her own father had always found a way out of trouble for her. Now, Brenna had the Harper family in her corner, and there was no way this matter could bring her down.


    Disappointment settled in as Gracie realized all her hard work to gather evidence would not stand a chance against Brenna¡¯s power.


    A sense of defeat washed over her. ¡°Rosie, am I supposed to just let Brenna win?¡±


    Rosie had already thought everything through. Every step Gracie had taken had been part of her n.


    ¡°Hold on to the evidence and stay quiet. You¡¯re letting your emotions get the better of you now. Bringing Brenna down will take more than just this. For now, act like nothing happened. We need to follow our n and not let this small thing throw us off course.¡±


    Reluctant as she was, Gracie put her faith in Rosie, certain that Rosie would never steer her wrong.


    ¡°So what should I do now?¡± she asked.<fn6848> Newest update provided by find?novel</fn6848>


    A low chuckle came from Rosie. ¡°Are you still hoping to win Ethan over?¡±


    Without a moment¡¯s hesitation, Gracie said yes.


    ¡°Then listen to me carefully. Head to the roof and act as if you are going to jump. I will make sure someone sees you and calls the police,¡± Rosie said.


    Later, while people were taking walks, Gracie sat on the rooftop terrace with a bottle of wine, several empty bottles scattered nearby.


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    A faint buzz from the alcohol had settled over her. She drained thest sip and then tossed the empty wine bottle down the building.


    The bottle plummeted from the rooftop and exploded into shards upon hitting the pavement.


    ss scattered in every direction, and the sound startled an elderly couple passing by. The shock nearly sent them into a panic.


    Both of them peered upward, trying to spot who was up on the roof, but their failing eyesight made it impossible to see clearly.


    Not long after, someone called the police after seeing Gracie on the rooftop, ready to jump.


    Ten minutester, a police cruiser pulled up at the building. Officers quickly started setting up an intable air cushion, ready for the worst.


    ¡°Check if she has friends or family close by and contact them. I am going upstairs to try and talk to her,¡± said one officer with authority.


    Splitting into teams, the officers started asking people in the area about Gracie.


    Two of them wasted no time and made their way to the rooftop.


    Nearly an hourter, Ethan arrived at the scene.


    On the roof, the officers were still working to convince Gracie to step away from the edge.


    .


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 Chapter 1213

    ?Chapter 1213:


    During his drive, Ethan had tried calling Gracie again and again, but she had ignored every call.


    One of the officers spotted Ethan and walked over. ¡°You are Gracie¡¯s friend, aren¡¯t you? She keeps asking for you. Please, try to talk to her. She is not in a good ce, and there¡¯s a real chance she might jump.¡±


    A deep sigh escaped Ethan. He felt both frustrated and resigned, since Gracie was once again drawing attention with threats of suicide.


    ¡°I will go speak to her,¡± Ethan said, and then followed an officer to the elevator. Before they reached the rooftop, the officer gave some advice. ¡°She¡¯s extremely upset. Choose your words wisely. Figure out what she wants and try to help her. And don¡¯t say¡­¡±


    Anything that might upset her more,¡± the officer warned. Ethan nodded and tried toe up with a way to soothe Gracie.


    Soon enough, they arrived at the rooftop.


    From a distance, Ethan saw Gracie standing dangerously close to the edge, only a single step from falling.


    As soon as she spotted him, Gracie¡¯s emotions seemed to take over. ¡°Ethan, you are finally here! Now that I have seen you, I can die without any regrets.¡± She edged even closer to the ledge.


    A misstep caused her to sway for a moment, but she managed to steady herself, drawing worried gasps from the people watching below.


    Even Ethan felt scared for her.


    ¡°Gracie! Please don¡¯t do anything reckless. You don¡¯t have to go through with this. Just tell me what it is that you want. I¡¯ll agree to it.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s heart pounded with real fear. The look in her eyes seemed genuine. She truly seemed ready to jump.


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    She stood right at the edge, the ground far below offering no second chances. One slip, and she would be dead.


    She needed a way to get answers without letting Ethan realize what she was really after.


    Tears poured down her cheeks as she cried out, ¡°Tell me the truth about that photo. Was it Brenna who spread it? Don¡¯t cover for her!¡±


    Gracie¡¯s voice shook with anger. ¡°You went ahead and fired Terry before investigating the matter thoroughly. Are you even trying to get to the bottom of this? Just tell me the truth, was it Brenna who spread that photo of me?¡±


    Ethan caught the intensity in her eyes. Still, he struggled with what to say. Terry had confessed that Brenna was behind it, and Ethan had seen all those calls between them in the phone records.


    Still, trusting his instincts, Ethan just could not believe that Brenna would use such tactics against Gracie.<fn648b> ???? ????s? ???????s ?? ?ovelFind</fn648b>


    Brenna was always straightforward. She never used roundabout ways to handle problems, especially when she wanted results.


    For hours, Ethan had turned over the situation in his mind and decided he would talk to Brenna about the matter the next day. But before he got the chance, he had received the call about Gracie trying to jump off the building.


    .


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 Chapter 1214

    ?Chapter 1214:


    ¡°It wasn¡¯t her,¡± said Ethan, speaking as calmly as he could. Thest thing he wanted was for Gracie to do something she could not take back. He stepped forward, closing the distance. If he walked a little closer, he could grab her.


    ¡°Don¡¯te any closer!¡± shouted Gracie, her voice brittle. ¡°One more step, and I swear I¡¯ll jump!¡±


    Backing away, she moved closer to the ledge until there was nothing left to stand on.


    The movement sent her arms swinging, searching for bnce. Her face turned pale with fear.


    Luckily, she managed to regain her footing. Even so, the fear left her shaky.


    ¡°Step back and keep her talking,¡± suggested the officer, his words quiet but firm. The officer could tell Gracie trusted Ethan. He hoped Ethan might say the right thing to save her.


    Despite all that was happening, Ethan refused to say anything bad about Brenna.


    ¡°I¡¯ll call Brenna right now, okay? Step away from the edge, and I¡¯ll put her on speaker so we can both hear what she says,¡± said Ethan, showing her his phone.


    Gracie¡¯s thoughts raced. If she pretended to jump and then backed out, Ethan would never believe her again.


    ¡°No, I¡¯m staying right here. Just call her,¡± said Gracie, her anxietying through in every word.


    ncing down, she saw the airbag was in ce, but from this height, there was no guarantee she would survive the fall.


    If she did not jump, Ethan would just use her of bluffing. He would think she was simply putting on a show.


    Rosie¡¯s advice echoed in her mind. If she wanted to make Ethan give in, she would have to actually jump.


    ???????? ?????????????? ???? ??????????????????.??????


    Gracie¡¯s mind was made up. She decided to jump for real.


    Every movement she made kept Ethan and the officer tense, both watching for any sign she might leap.


    Ethan quickly dialed Brenna¡¯s number.


    The second the call went through, he skipped any greeting. ¡°Brenna, did you tell Terry to leak that photo of Gracie?¡±


    He had no patience for small talk now. There was too much at stake.


    Calm as ever, Brenna answered, ¡°That leaked photo was nothing. I have photos far more revealing saved on my phone. Why would I post that one? I was not the one who spread that photo. If I had posted it, you would never have been able to trace it back to me. If I had been behind it, I wouldn¡¯t have stopped with just the Mitchell Group. The whole city would have seen the photo. I would have made sure everyone who knew Gracie saw it.¡±


    Annoyance crept into Brenna¡¯s tone. Ethan¡¯s questioning felt like an insult, and she made no attempt to hide her irritation.


    Even though Ethan knew Brenna¡¯s words might only make things worse, he had no better options.


    Gracie¡¯s outrage boiled over. ¡°That¡¯s a lie! She did it!¡± She still believed that Brenna was simply denying it.


    Desperation took over as Gracie yelled, ¡°Terry said you were the one who told him to do it, Brenna! I¡¯m going to the police with the evidence!¡±


    .


    .<fn9fab> For more chapters visit f¦É?dn¦Ïvel</fn9fab>


    .

 Chapter 1215

    ?Chapter 1215:


    Brenna realized this was more serious than she thought. ¡°If you still doubt me, what else can I do? Should I prove it by sharing those photos with everyone in Shirie?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare!¡± snapped Gracie, her anger ring. She had already dered that she had evidence, and Brenna¡¯s outright denial infuriated her.


    Suddenly, she lost her bnce. A scream tore from her throat as she fell. There was nothing Ethan could do but lunge forward. However, he was toote to stop her from falling.


    Gracie¡¯s shriek cut through the night as she plummeted, while everyone around froze.


    Down below, officers scrambled to reposition the airbag, eyes tracking her rapid descent.


    With a deafening thud, Graciended on the airbag, bouncing more than once before finally going still. She quickly lost consciousness from the shock.


    Ethan¡¯s heart raced in fear. For one horrible moment, he truly thought he had just watched Gracie die.<fndee9> ???s ??????? ?s ?????? ?? find?novel</fndee9>


    Brenna¡¯s heart skipped a beat when frantic screams sted through her phone. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± she asked.


    Ethan¡¯s voice crackled with urgency. ¡°Gracie just tried to end her life by jumping off the building. I need to check on her now!¡± Without waiting for a response, he tore down the stairs, the police close behind, phone still pressed to his ear.


    Brenna stayed on the line, wanting to know if Gracie had survived.


    By the time Ethan burst outside, paramedics were already crouched beside Gracie, running quick checks.


    Ethan elbowed his way through and turned to the nearest doctor, panic coloring his voice. ¡°Is she okay?¡± Fear gripped him. If Gracie didn¡¯t make it, the me mightnd on Brenna, staining her reputation for good.


    ???????? ?????????????? ???? ??????????????????.??????


    ¡°She¡¯s unconscious, but her vitals look good. We¡¯ll take her to the hospital for a thorough check,¡± the doctor said, unruffled by the chaos.


    Relief swept over Ethan. ¡°Thank God. Let¡¯s get her to the hospital right away.¡± The moment she heard those words, Brenna hung up, her mind racing with questions about Gracie¡¯s desperate act. ¡°Did she really want to end her life?¡± Still, this had nothing to do with her. She had done nothing wrong.


    Needing a distraction, Brenna dove into her usual world, hunting for frence hacking gigs in the shadowy corners of the dark web.


    It didn¡¯t take long to spot a tempting offer: a fat payout promised for cracking apany¡¯s firewall.


    There were no details about thepany, nor any hint about the motive behind the job.


    Despite being posted just two hours ago, the listing had already drawn over a hundred applicants, including some of the top names in hacking.


    Brenna decided to hang back and watch. The task must be difficult; if it were an easy task, the payment would not be so high. She only took on challenges others could not handle.


    The following morning, Brenna had just set foot inside thepany building when Alec hurried over, his expression tense. ¡°Don¡¯t go into your office, Brenna. The police are waiting for you there.¡±


    .


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 Chapter 1216

    ?Chapter 1216:


    Brenna stopped in her tracks, eyebrows raised in disbelief. ¡°They¡¯re looking for me?¡±


    Alec¡¯s nod was grim. ¡°That¡¯s right. I double-checked with Mr. Mitchell. Gracie used you of leaking that nude photo of her. She wants you arrested. Just leave before they spot you.¡±<fnfb1f> Read full story at find{n}ovel</fnfb1f>


    Brenna remainedposed. ¡°I am innocent. I have nothing to fear from the police.¡±


    She strode toward the elevator, determined to get to the bottom of this.


    At the front desk, a couple of receptionists exchanged worried nces before one of them stepped forward to stop her. ¡°Ms. Harper, you should not go there. Miss Wilson is with the officers right now, demanding your arrest.¡±


    Brenna offered a steady nod. ¡°Unless they have solid proof, they can¡¯t touch me.¡± Unfazed, she pressed the elevator button and stepped inside.


    Meanwhile, Alec dialed Ethan in a rush. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, Brenna¡¯s on her way up. Please convince her to leave. What if the police really do arrest her?¡±


    Ethan replied, ¡°I¡¯m in her office now. Don¡¯t worry; I¡¯ll take care of it.¡±


    Even after ending the call, Alec couldn¡¯t shake his nerves. He had a strong hunch Rosie was involved in this.


    He wasted no time calling Rosie. ¡°Did you have something to do with the policeing after Brenna?¡±


    Rosie answered coolly, almost amused. ¡°Weren¡¯t you upset that she never took your side? Wouldn¡¯t you feel happy if she went to jail?¡±


    Even though Alec still had resentment toward Brenna, he knew her going to jail would do him no good. ¡°She may have been cold toward me, but things between me and her have started to get better. Besides, how would it help me if she got arrested?¡±


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    He could see inly that Rosie was behind this and seemed to take real pleasure in the chaos. ¡°This is your doing, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    Rosie didn¡¯t confirm or deny it. ¡°Gracie submitted evidence to the police. Brenna is really going to be arrested this time.¡±


    Frustration mounting, Alec ended the call and caught an elevator up to the fifty-eighth floor.


    As soon as Brenna stepped out of the elevator, a pair of officers intercepted her.


    ¡°Ms. Harper?¡± the female officer asked in a measured tone. ¡°We¡¯d like you to answer a few questions about an ongoing case.¡±


    She made no move to arrest Brenna despite having the evidence that Gracie had submitted.


    Without protest, Brenna agreed and followed the officer to her office. Inside, three officers were already examining Brenna¡¯sputer, scanning files and logs.


    Brenna took a seat on the sofa, watching quietly as they worked.


    Just then, Gracie stormed over and pulled Brenna¡¯s phone from her grasp.


    ¡°Officer, search her phone for any contact with Terry!¡± she demanded.


    Unshaken, Brenna shed a faint, cold smile.


    .


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 Chapter 1217

    ?Chapter 1217:


    Ethan squeezed her hand, offering silent support. ¡°Everything will be fine. You¡¯ve done nothing wrong, and I trust the police to see that.¡±


    Gracie, not satisfied, snapped at the police officers, ¡°She¡¯s an expert in programming. Of course, she has erased the evidence. Are your tech people even up to the task?¡±


    The female officer said calmly, ¡°No matter what has been deleted from the phone, the telpany still keeps a full record of calls.¡±


    For nearly an hour, the technician struggled with Brenna¡¯sputer. By the end, beads of sweat covered his forehead, and he finally gave up.


    Impatienceced Gracie¡¯s words. ¡°You¡¯re telling me you can¡¯t even crack the password of aputer? What good are you?¡±


    With a steady tone, the technician replied, ¡°You have no idea what you¡¯re talking about. Thisputer uses biometrics and a top-tier firewall. We can¡¯t ess it without the owner¡¯s authorization.¡±


    Frustration made Gracie scoff. ¡°Just admit you can¡¯t do it and stop ming the system,¡± she said, rolling her eyes.


    Instead of rising to the bait, the technician faced Brenna and spoke respectfully. ¡°Ms. Harper, could you please unlock your device for us?¡± Calmly, Brenna stepped to the desk. The moment she stood beside the technician, the system recognized her, and theputer unlocked automatically.


    Astonishment crossed the police captain¡¯s face. ¡°Ms. Harper, where did you find a setup like this? That¡¯s some serious security.¡±<fnd4d0> N?w ?ovel chapt?rs are published on find(?)ovel</fnd4d0>


    A small, proud smile tugged at Brenna¡¯s lips. ¡°I designed it myself.¡±


    The captain gave her a thumbs-up in approval, leaning closer. ¡°Ms. Harper, would you consider installing your system on our policework? We¡¯re willing to pay for that kind of protection.¡±


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    His attitude toward Brenna warmed immediately. Friendly conversation followed as he scrolled through her phone and found an entire album of Gracie and Waldo.


    Gracie¡¯s anger boiled over when she saw that. Had the man not been a police officer, she might have lunged for the device herself. ¡°Look at that! It¡¯s all right there! She must be the one who spread that photo of me, Officer. What more do you need? Arrest her!¡± she shouted, pointing at the phone.


    Unfazed, the police captain responded, ¡°Possession of these pictures isn¡¯t enough. Unless we can prove she spread the photo, we can¡¯t arrest her.¡±


    A furious protest erupted from Gracie. ¡°Those are my private photos on her phone! Why won¡¯t you do your job and arrest her?¡±


    She reached out, trying to snatch the phone away, but the captain held it just out of her reach.


    Gracie failed to get the phone.


    A firm voice cut through the tension. ¡°Control yourself,¡± said the female officer, fixing Gracie with a warning stare.


    Only then did Gracie calm down.


    Momentster, the technician spoke up. ¡°Captain, there¡¯s nothing here. No link to Terry and no photos of Gracie on Ms. Harper¡¯sputer.¡±


    Disbelief colored Gracie¡¯s response. ¡°That can¡¯t be right. Go through her phone again and check every single call she¡¯s made.¡±


    Before the captain could answer, his phone rang with an iing call from a colleague.


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 Chapter 1218

    ?Chapter 1218:


    The voice on the other end of the line said, ¡°Captain, Brenna holds five registered numbers, but none of them have records showing she has been in touch with Terry. As for Terry, his phone records are probably edited. Some software can change phone numbers in the call logs nowadays.¡±


    Anger red in Gracie. She turned to Brenna. ¡°You did something to erase the evidence! You¡¯re the only one with those photos of mine, so who else could it be?¡±


    Like someone pushed beyond reason, Gracie lunged at Brenna, fist raised.


    Before she could strike, Ethan stepped in and caught her arm to stop her. ¡°That¡¯s enough! Are you honestly iming you know more than the police? Just believe what they¡¯re telling you.¡±


    Pushing back, Gracie snapped, ¡°You don¡¯t get it, Ethan. Brenna¡¯s a skilled hacker. Erasing evidence would be child¡¯s y for her. Don¡¯t let her fool you.¡±


    The police captain finally rose, offering Ethan and Brenna a handshake. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, Ms. Harper, I¡¯m sorry for the interruption. There¡¯s nothing here to tie Ms. Harper to the photo leak.¡±


    Some parting words of courtesy followed before the officer made his exit with his team.


    Unmoved, Gracie narrowed her eyes at Brenna. ¡°Did your family bribe the police or something?¡±


    With her expression hardening, Brenna replied, ¡°If you¡¯re done, I¡¯d like you to leave.¡±


    Ethan said, ¡°Gracie, you¡¯re making a mistake. Ask the police to keep looking if you want the truth, but Brenna wasn¡¯t the one who spread that photo. Don¡¯t be stubborn. Go home now; get some rest.¡±


    Snorting in disbelief, Gracie said, ¡°I don¡¯t trust you, Brenna. I¡¯ll get to the bottom of this, and the police will have the proof you did that soon enough. Just wait and see!¡±


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    With that, she hurried after the officers, determined to push them into investigating the secretarial staff on the 99th floor.


    Ethan was tired of Gracie¡¯s antics by now. He turned to Brenna. ¡°Brenna, please don¡¯t take this personally. Gracie has tried to harm herself more than once, and she insisted on calling the police. I didn¡¯t stop her because I didn¡¯t dare provoke her.¡±


    A heavy sigh left Brenna. ¡°I know you¡¯re not siding with Gracie to give me trouble. I just feel there¡¯s more to this matter.¡±


    Ethan nodded, his expression unreadable. ¡°I¡¯ll talk to the police. They need to investigate this thoroughly.¡±


    Just then, the door flew open. Neville entered in a hurry. ¡°Sir, Terry¡¯s fled the country!¡±


    Ethan was shocked by the revtion. ¡°He fled?¡±<fnc1c0> For more chapters visit F?ndNovel</fnc1c0>


    After a pause, he instructed, ¡°Report this to the police!¡±


    Brenna was not concerned about the matter, considering it a trivial issue.


    Ethan, however, was gripped by guilt. He sped Brenna¡¯s hand, drawing her into a tender embrace. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry for dragging you into this mess.¡±


    ¡°No need to apologize. Look at me; I¡¯m perfectly fine. Don¡¯t beat yourself up over it,¡± Brenna replied, her arms encircling his neck as she looked into his eyes. Neville returned to the room but paused at the threshold, catching sight of their intimate moment. He then gently closed the door to give them some privacy.


    Ethan let out a chuckle. ¡°You really don¡¯t let things get under your skin easily, do you?¡±


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 Chapter 1219

    ?Chapter 1219:


    Brenna arched an eyebrow yfully. ¡°Gracie is no threat to me. She has tried to cause trouble for me multiple times but has never seeded. She is no match for me.¡±


    Ethan nodded, a spark of relief in his eyes. ¡°You¡¯re absolutely right. I was fretting over nothing, worried you would be upset because of her. Gracie is always stirring up trouble for you, and I thought it might wear on you. I¡¯m thinking of sending her back to Norview when the time is right.¡±


    Brenna tilted her head in agreement. ¡°That is a smart move, though I bet she will be reluctant to leave your side.¡±


    ¡°She won¡¯t have a say in the matter,¡± Ethan replied before leaning down to capture Brenna¡¯s lips in a kiss.


    Neville lingered outside, waiting for a while before knocking lightly.


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell, Miss Wilson has gone to the 99th floor with the police. You might want to go and check on the situation,¡± he said.


    Ethan was lost in a deep, fervent kiss with Brenna. Were they not in the office, they might have already moved to thefort of a bed.


    Reluctantly, he pulled away from Brenna, who looked pleased with the kiss. Unable to resist, Ethan leaned in for another kiss, his hand grazing Brenna¡¯s chest as he pressed himself closer, desire ring within him.


    After a moment, he forced himself to step away. ¡°I¡¯d better go see what¡¯s going on.¡±<fnc031> ??? ????? ???????s ??? ?????s??? ?? find?novel</fnc031>


    ¡°Go on,¡± Brenna said softly.


    Ethan turned to leave, aware that lingering any longer might only unravel his restraint.


    Neville, ever observant, noticed a smudge of lipstick on Ethan¡¯s lips and offered a tissue from his pocket. ¡°Sir, you¡¯ve got a bit of lipstick there.¡±


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    Ethan cast a casual nce at Neville, epted the tissue, and wiped his lips calmly.


    That evening, Brenna returned home after a long day. After dinner, she retreated to her room and slipped into the shadows of the dark web.


    The task she had been eyeing was still there, waiting.


    She epted it, retrieving a seldom-used phone from her drawer and waiting for the client to send the details and a website link.


    Yet, an hour slipped by without a whisper from the client, who seemed to be unaware that the task had been imed.


    Usually, all task publishers on the dark web would receive a website notification after someone epted their task. They would send the person who had epted the task the cooperation details soon after.


    After waiting for a while, the task publisher finally sent a message to Brenna, saying they wanted to meet her in person to watch the operation and giving her an address.


    Brenna reviewed the address, a deserted workshop in Shirie¡¯s western outskirts.


    She was asked to go there in two hours, at one in the morning.


    This wasn¡¯t umon, so Brenna thought little of it.


    She showered, slipped into sleek ck leather clothing, donned a mask and night vision goggles, packed herptop, and tucked a gun into her bag before heading out.


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 Chapter 1220

    ?Chapter 1220:


    As she prepared to leave, her bodyguards approached her.


    ¡°Miss Harper, we should go with you.¡±


    Brenna shed a subtle smile. ¡°No need, I¡¯ll be back in no time.¡±


    But Brenna¡¯s attire, dark and purposeful, raised the bodyguards¡¯ suspicions. After she drove off, the bodyguards trailed her in another car, alerting Ernst as they went.


    Fresh from a shower and not yet retired for the night, Ernst sprang into action upon hearing about Brenna¡¯s situation. He swiftly changed his clothes and gathered a team of bodyguards to trail her.


    The Harper family, scarred by Ernst¡¯s childhood abduction and Brenna¡¯s disappearance when she was little, remained fiercely vignt about their children¡¯s safety. Suspecting Brenna was under threat, Ernst was worried about her.


    Ernst not only armed himself with a firearm but also directed the bodyguards to equip themselves, prepared to swoop in and save Brenna should danger arise. Unaware of being followed, Brenna drove alone to the destination in less than an hour.


    The locale was a ghostly, forsaken vige, shrouded in darkness, with not a single streemp, rendering everything invisible.


    Wearing her night vision goggles, Brenna saw roughly a dozen figures scattered in the distance.<fn127c> This content belongs to f?ndnovel</fn127c>


    Was such a modest mission to disrupt awork truly warranting such a crowd? This was clearly an ambush.


    Brenna halted her car, intent on retreating. Fearless though she was, stepping knowingly into a trap would be foolish.


    Peering through her goggles, she noticed the figures swiftly closing in, about to encircle her car.


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    She threw the car into reverse, only to discover two cars sealing off the road behind her.


    ¡°Well, well,¡± she chuckled. ¡°Time to shake off the rust a bit!¡±


    Seventeen hulking men closed in around Brenna¡¯s car, each dressed in street clothes and brandishing metal pipes. The whole group looked ready to start a brawl.


    Brenna stayedposed. She reached over to the passenger seat, unzipped her backpack, and pulled out a gun.


    Right then, a sudden wash of headlights swept across the area. A convoy of vehicles had arrived, lighting up everything in harsh brightness.


    Three women climbed out of a high-end car across from Brenna. One, armed with an assault rifle, brazenly opened fire at her windshield.


    Brenna immediately ducked for cover.


    Luckily, the windshield was reinforced and could stop the bullets. All the gunfire managed to do was leave a row of white marks on the ss.


    The three women were Judy, Rosie, and Tina. Judy was the one who had fired at Brenna¡¯s car.


    Brenna nced across the ss at the luxury car. Aside from the driver, nobody else was inside. She was surprised that, despite Gracie¡¯s resentment toward her, she hadn¡¯te to kill her this time.


    ¡°Step out of the car!¡± Judy called out, shocked by how sturdy Brenna¡¯s vehicle proved to be.


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 Chapter 1221

    ?Chapter 1221:


    Brenna coldly observed those standing in front of her car, knowing that stepping out meant certain death.


    She had no intention of leaving the vehicle.


    With a smug grin, Rosie spoke up. ¡°Guess what? We know you have an ount on the dark web, so we put up a huge bounty just to lure you.¡±


    She snickered. ¡°You always seemed too smart for a trap. We ran into nine others before you, so we weren¡¯t sure if you¡¯de this time. But our luck turned.¡±


    ¡°Is seeing me dead that important to you? Not long ago, you even hired me for a job.¡± Brenna remained calm. She knew she was safe as long as she was inside the car.


    Rosie said, ¡°We¡¯ve waited a long time for this moment. Thest few times I tried to take you out, you nearly flipped things around. But this time, you won¡¯t be so lucky.¡±


    ¡°Not necessarily.¡± Brenna kept her tone even. She had already checked every corner with her night vision goggles and spotted no hidden attackers. Only the group in front of her was waiting.


    Judy had a single assault rifle. Not one other person held a firearm.


    Apparently, Judy¡¯s gang was not as intimidating as it seemed.


    Vand enforced strict gun control, and the police had recentlyunched arge crackdown on organized crime and corruption, wiping out many gangs in Shirie.


    Because of that, firearms were scarce. Brenna sized up the men with iron pipes and saw them as no threat.


    Rosie knew Brenna was tough, but she didn¡¯t believe anyone could survive a rifle.


    With a weapon like that on her side, she thought Brenna was doomed tonight.


    Rosie eximed, ¡°Out of the car, now!¡±


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    Judy raised the rifle and squeezed off another round.


    The people around her pounded metal pipes against Brenna¡¯s car.


    Tina reached out, grabbing Judy¡¯s arm. ¡°Don¡¯t kill her yet. That¡¯s letting her off easy. After what she did to me, I want real payback!¡±


    Judy¡¯s lips curled into a wicked grin. ¡°So, what do you have in mind for that?¡±


    Tina shot Brenna a furious re, her voice full of spite. ¡°I want these men to tear her clothes off, rape her, and film the whole thing. Then post it everywhere ¡ª Ethan has to see it!¡±


    Judy rolled her eyes at the suggestion. She had her twisted ideas for Brenna¡¯s punishment. To her, Tina¡¯s n sounded childish. ¡°I expected you toe up with something better.¡±


    Tina fired back, ¡°Isn¡¯t that enough? What do you have in mind then?¡±<fn66d9> Updates are released by F?nd-Novel</fn66d9>


    Judy swung her riflezily and smirked. ¡°She¡¯s got a pretty face. I¡¯d rather peel her skin and wear it as a mask. Or maybe carve her up piece by piece. Feed her to wild dogs.¡±


    Tina scoffed at that. ¡°That¡¯s not what I want. I still think letting her die at the hands of these men is more satisfying.¡± Neither woman agreed with the other.


    Brenna listened in silence, letting them finish their ugly debate. When they finally stopped talking, she said, ¡°You two are disgusting. But you¡¯ll never get the chance to do those things to me.¡±


    With that, she flung open the car door and climbed out. The men scattered back, raising their pipes and bracing for a fight.


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 Chapter 1222

    ?Chapter 1222:<fn96bd> Find the newest release on find?novel</fn96bd>


    Brenna moved fast. Three shots rang out, each finding its mark. She killed the men on one side of the car with clean headshots.


    She then aimed her gun at Judy and pulled the trigger without hesitation. Judy crumpled to the ground, a bullet through her skull. The rifle ttered next to her.


    Shock spread across Rosie¡¯s and Tina¡¯s faces. Neither one had expected Brenna to be armed.


    In Vand, it was impossible to own a gun legally. Even as someone married to the Prince of Plieca, Rosie could not get her hands on a gun. How had Brenna gotten her hands on a gun?


    ¡°How on earth did you get that gun, Brenna?¡± Rosie stared in horror at Judy¡¯s lifeless form sprawled on the ground.


    Just moments ago, they had been chatting, but now, Judyy still, dead.


    Instinctively, Rosie darted behind a nearby car for cover, her heart pounding. Tina, slower to react, found herself caught in Brenna¡¯s deadly sights.


    ¡°No!¡± Tina¡¯s voice cracked with desperation as she pointed at Brenna. ¡°Your brother and mine are friends! You can¡¯t kill me!¡±


    Brenna¡¯s finger hesitated on the trigger for a fleeting moment when she heard that, and in that briefpse, Tina seized her chance to escape.


    The surrounding thugs, clutching metal bars, realized their leader was gone. Fear of Clive¡¯s wrath spurred them into action. ¡°Take her down!¡± one bellowed. ¡°We must avenge Miss Mendoza!¡±


    Brenna unleashed three precise shots with her gun, each felling an assant. But others charged forward, brandishing metal bars, forcing her into closebat.


    Fortunately, Brenna¡¯sbat prowess was unmatched. Her attackers stood no chance, and soon, the air echoed with their pained cries and the grim snap of breaking bones.


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    With her final bullet spent, Brenna had killed all of Judy¡¯s men. Those who had not been shot were taken down by her bare hands, their necks broken. Just then, a convoy of cars screeched to a halt nearby. Brenna, ever vignt, sprinted toward them, ready to kill whoever emerged.


    ¡°It¡¯s me!¡± Ernst¡¯s voice rang out as he stepped from the vehicle, sensing her lethal intent. Brenna had closed the distance with startling speed, seizing his head in a vice-like grip. If he had spoken a split second slower, he might have already been killed.


    Recognizing her brother and the two bodyguards, Brenna withdrew her hands.


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± she asked.


    Ernst¡¯s gaze brimmed with concern and exasperation. ¡°Venturing to such a perilous ce alone? That¡¯s too dangerous!¡±


    Spotting the pistol in Ernst¡¯s hand, Brenna swiftly imed it and whirled around, locking her sights on the fleeing Tina. She squeezed the trigger.


    A sharp crack split the air.


    Tina crumpled to the ground, paralyzed by fear. Her trembling fingers grazed her scalp, finding a gash oozing blood.


    Frozen in terror, she dared not stir or whimper, dreading that Brenna might shoot her again.


    She was unable to believe Brenna had actually shot her. Was she not afraid of the police?


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 Chapter 1223

    ?Chapter 1223:


    She strained her ears, listening intently for any sign of movement from Brenna. Only when silence met her did she finally exhale, the tension in her chest loosening. She had narrowly slipped through death¡¯s fingers today.


    Brenna¡¯s lips curled into a cold smirk. ¡°You thought you could scheme against me? This is the price.¡±


    Certain of Tina¡¯s demise, Brenna recalled the torment Tina had orchestrated for her. She had never intended to let Tina live.


    Ernst looked at Brenna. ¡°Your aim is uncanny. When did you master such a skill?¡±


    He was swept by a wave of sympathy. Brenna was so delicate yet unmistakably adept with firearms. What kind of experience could have forged such a contrast?<fn0c51> Original content can be found at f?ndnovel</fn0c51>


    ¡°I learned it in Norview,¡± Brenna replied softly, her eyes scanning the lifeless bodies around them. The situation had spiraled beyond control.


    Sensing her thoughts, Ernst reassured her, ¡°You should go. I¡¯ll clean up this mess. The authorities won¡¯te knocking.¡± Brenna gave a faint nod.


    ¡°Who was that you just shot?¡± Ernst asked.


    ¡°Tina,¡± Brenna answered honestly. ¡°Rosie was here, too, but she escaped.¡± Ernst¡¯s brow furrowed. Tina, Jayceon¡¯s half-sister, posed aplication. Her death at Brenna¡¯s hands could stir trouble.


    But he was already thinking about a n. Neither Tina¡¯s death nor tonight¡¯s bloodshed would trace back to Brenna.


    ¡°Handling this will be tricky, but don¡¯t worry,¡± he said. ¡°I¡¯ll take care of this. You can leave.¡±


    ¡°Okay. What about my car?¡± Brenna asked.


    Ernst walked to her car, noting the numerous bullet marks. He finally understood why Brenna had needed to eliminate all those people.


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    ¡°Our family has got our own repair shop,¡± Ernst said. ¡°Fixing this will be a breeze.¡± Near the bullet-riddled cary Judy¡¯s lifeless body. Ernst recognized her easily. Brenna slid into Ernst¡¯s car and sped off into the night.


    Ernst, unfazed, retrieved his phone and dialed a number with calm precision. ¡°Your sister is with me,¡± he said coolly. ¡°If you want her breathing, be here in ten minutes. Come alone, unarmed.¡±


    As Brenna savored her breakfast the next morning, her phone buzzed with a news alert: a brutal gang sh in the western suburbs had imed thirty-seven lives.


    A faint smile curved her lips as she forwarded the article to Ernst, who was seated across the table.


    ¡°Your handiwork?¡± she asked lightly.


    Ernst shrugged, his tone nonchnt. ¡°I had help. The Mendoza siblings, especially Clive, have made plenty of enemies. The police have been itching to take him down. We are doing a public service, so do not worry. But there is one thing¡­¡±


    Brenna¡¯s gaze met Ernst¡¯s. ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°Tina is alive. I couldn¡¯t find her body. Rosie slipped away, too.¡± Ernst took a few more bites before adding, ¡°I checked Tina¡¯s cest night. She didn¡¯t dare go home. But neither she nor Rosie will likely breathe a word of this to anyone. If they talk, they would only entangle themselves in the mess.¡±


    Shepard let out a sharp snort. ¡°Rosie has been buying up the Harper Group shares behind my back. I know exactly what she¡¯s been doing. Take every share away from her. Leave her with nothing, then give Brenna the shares. She¡¯s used my money for years while targeting my daughter. Does she really think I¡¯ll just stand by and let her do that?¡±


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 Chapter 1224

    ?Chapter 1224:


    A firm nod came from Ernst. ¡°Of course, Dad. As for our business in Plieca, I say we cut off all ties with Maxley. I¡¯m convinced Maxley had a hand in this matter, too. He and Rosie are the same, both malicious. We¡¯ve put up with Rosie¡¯s attitude for too long. She pretends to be friendly but plots behind our backs. We only tolerated her out of respect for Carsen. But now that she¡¯s gone so far as to trying to kill Brenna, I can¡¯t let it slide.¡±


    Anger burned in Ernst¡¯s eyes. He used to believe that patience and kindness would make Rosie grateful.


    Looking back, he realized how wrong he had been.


    Brenna arrived at her office just as Lorna was heading out with a cleaning basin. A gentle reminder came from Lorna. ¡°Mr. Mitchell is waiting for you inside.¡± Brenna gave a nod in response.


    When she stepped inside, Ethan immediately pulled her into a hug. ¡°I¡¯m so d you¡¯re all right. Your brother told me what happenedst night. I was really scared for you.¡±


    Seeing the worry in his eyes, Brenna reached up to touch his cheek. ¡°I¡¯m fine. Please don¡¯t worry about me. I know how to take care of myself.¡±<fn24fb> Fresh chapters posted on F?ndNovel</fn24fb>


    Ethan led her over to the sofa. ¡°If you ever find yourself needing money, just let me know. Don¡¯t risk your safety trying to earn some extra money by yourself. I¡¯ll always make sure you have what you need.¡±


    His tone was nothing but sincere as he sent a billion to Brenna¡¯s ount.


    She stared at the long string of zeroes on her phone. ¡°I really don¡¯t need all this. I only saw a good task and thought it¡¯d be fun to challenge myself and make a little extra money. I promise, I¡¯m not struggling financially.¡±


    With a smile, Ethan ruffled her hair. ¡°Just keep it. The weather will change soon. You can use it for new clothes or anything else you want.¡±


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    The night before, he and Ernst had managed to catch Clive and his aplices.


    On top of that, he had people trash Rosie¡¯s house and made sure the Mitchell Group cklisted Rosie¡¯s and Maxley¡¯spaniespletely. Ethan didn¡¯t mention any of it.


    To Brenna, all that mattered was making sure anyone who dared hurt her knew they¡¯d be his enemy.


    ¡°From now on, you should never go outte by yourself. If you absolutely have to, bring bodyguards with you. If you don¡¯t want that, then take me with you instead. It would break my heart if anything happened to you,¡± he said.


    A gentleugh escaped Brenna. ¡°Look at you, getting so nervous about me. I am really fine.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s face grew even more serious. ¡°No, you have to promise you¡¯ll listen to me this time.¡±


    After talking to Brenna for a while about being careful, Ethan finally took his leave.


    Returning to her desk, Brenna checked the day¡¯s stock market. The Wagner family stocks were plummeting, and the stock price of Rosie¡¯s newly listedpany was taking a nosedive, too.


    No matter how much she tried to calm herself, Brenna¡¯s anger wouldn¡¯t settle. Rosie had crossed the line this time, and Brenna believed she needed to teach her a lesson.


    Without another thought, Brenna grabbed her bag and left the office.


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 Chapter 1225

    ?Chapter 1225:


    Waiting downstairs, her bodyguards had already brought the car around. Brenna¡¯s voice was cold as she instructed, ¡°Take me to Rosie¡¯s ce.¡±


    ¡°Understood, Miss Harper.¡± The bodyguards knew all about the events ofst night. They had followed Brenna secretly, which was why she had avoided danger.


    When Brenna reached Rosie¡¯s upscale apartment, a crowd of neighbors had gathered at the door.


    The main security door was twisted and broken, proof of just how violent the break-in had been.


    She moved through the people standing around and saw that Rosie¡¯s ce had beenpletely trashed, every bit of furniture in pieces.


    Looking at the scene, Brenna felt a wave of satisfaction. The entire home was in ruins, every room a mess, with trails of blood marking the chaos.


    Clearly, both Rosie and Maxley had taken a beating.


    ¡°Serves them right. I wish I knew who did this,¡± Brenna muttered.


    Brenna¡¯s bodyguards wandered around the room. One of them spotted a tablet that had survived the destruction, still sitting on the sofa.


    The screen showed a video.


    In the footage, Rosie and Maxley were dragged out of bed in their pajamas and then attacked by a group of intruders.


    At first, Rosie tried to threaten her attackers, but they ignored her and pped her so hard that her face became swollen and unrecognizable.


    Maxley got it even worse. The people beat him with a baseball bat, leaving him bruised and unable to move.


    Desperation and terror showed clearly on both Rosie¡¯s and Maxley¡¯s faces.


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    Their screams were loud.


    Brenna¡¯s fury faded as she watched the video.


    She figured it was probably Ethan or Ernst who had arranged for this.


    On her way out, Brenna caught the voice of a woman among the neighbors. ¡°Miss, did youe to beat them up, too? Two different groups showed up this morning, and they made such a racket I thought the building would copse.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s eyes widened with interest. ¡°Did you say two groups?¡±


    The woman spoke in a serious tone. ¡°When the first group arrived, they hammered on the door with such force that the sound echoed through the building. The residents inside refused to open it, but that didn¡¯t deter them. They stormed in, leaving chaos in their wake. Just look at that door¡­¡±


    When Brenna had arrived, she had been met with the sight of the battered security door, its surface marred by deep axe gashes and dents from heavy club blows.


    The woman shivered as she recounted the ordeal, saying, ¡°It was utterly terrifying. They were like a band of ruthless marauders, striking anyone in their path and wreaking havoc on everything they touched. They dragged those two people inside the apartment right out of their beds. And those two must have done something so malicious to endure such a brutal thrashing. Their screams sent chills down our spines. Not long after that group left, another, even more ferocious group of people arrived¡­¡±<fnc4a3> Newest update provided by find?novel</fnc4a3>


    A faint smirk crossed Brenna¡¯s lips. It seemed Rosie and Maxley had been beaten up severely. They were likely cowering in some hidden corner now, perhaps even nning a desperate escape abroad.


    .


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 Chapter 1226

    ?Chapter 1226:


    Leaving Rosie¡¯s apartment, Brenna set her sights on confronting Tina. But when she reached the Russell family home, Tina was nowhere to be found, and she refused to answer her phone.


    Tina, too, must have gone into hiding.


    At the airport,


    Rosie and Maxley moved through the terminal. Draped in long hooded coats, their faces obscured by sunsses and masks, they blended into the crowd as they approached the security checkpoint.


    The security officers scanned them thoroughly, finding no contraband. Yet, their suspicious attire raised eyebrows, prompting a firm request from the staff. ¡°Please remove your sunsses and masks.¡±


    With reluctance, Rosieplied, revealing a face etched with bruises, a testament to the recent ordeal.


    Maxley looked even worse. His face was swollen and bruised all over, especially his eyes, which were puffed up like light bulbs, making him virtually unrecognizablepared to his ID photo.


    The security officer stifled a chuckle, unable to resist asking, ¡°What on earth happened to you two?¡±


    Neither Rosie nor Maxley would confess to the beatings they had endured; that would be far too humiliating and risk drawing unwanted attention from the authorities.


    Maxley fabricated a quick excuse. ¡°We had an argument, and things got out of hand.¡±


    Rosie nodded eagerly, saying, ¡°Yes. It¡¯s nothing serious; just let us through.¡± The security officers saw that their identification matched and allowed them to proceed.


    g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s makes every story special<fnebda> For more chapters visit f?i?n?d?n?o?v?e?l?</fnebda>


    In the quiet hum of the lounge, Maxley turned to Rosie, his voice thick with frustration. ¡°I warned you not to cross Brenna. I told you, but you wouldn¡¯t listen. Now look at the mess we¡¯re in. Both the Harpers and the Mitchells are out for our blood. We¡¯re lucky you didn¡¯t seed in killing Brenna. If you had, the Harpers and Ethan would have torn Plieca apart. Why do you always act without thinking? Why must you be so reckless?¡±


    He continued his tirade, his voice thick with exasperation. ¡°We spent months cultivating alliances with the Wagner family and the Judy siblings. You even managed to secure seven percent of the Harper Group¡¯s shares. And we were on the cusp of getting some of the Mitchell Group¡¯s shares, but you just had to lose your temper and do something this impulsive¡ª¡±


    Rosie¡¯s patience frayed, and she cut him off sharply, saying, ¡°Enough! I did it for you, to rally support for your cause.¡±


    Maxley snorted coldly, his tone dripping with disdain as he looked at her. ¡°Spare me the act, Rosie. As if you don¡¯t have your own schemes. I know you¡¯ve got your sights set on Ethan. This whole mess was your way of settling scores with him, not some noble effort for me.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s eyes narrowed, her gaze icy as she shot back, ¡°Don¡¯t talk nonsense. Can you honestly im my efforts haven¡¯t helped you? You always im to be the most promising candidate for Plieca¡¯s throne, but without me, you¡¯d be nothing.¡±


    Maxley seethed at Rosie¡¯s words, the truth in them stinging too much. In a huff, he stormed off to a seat farther away, putting distance between them. Just then, Rosie¡¯s phone buzzed, and she nced at the screen. Tina¡¯s name shed.


    She carried two phones with four numbers. One phone, used for public dealings, held two numbers. She had switched off the phone to evade being tracked down by the Harper family and Ethan.


    .


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 Chapter 1227

    ?Chapter 1227:


    The other phone, always active, housed two private numbers known only to a trusted few.<fned4d> Read full story at findnovel</fned4d>


    She answered the call. ¡°Why are you calling me?¡±


    Tina¡¯s voice crackled through, tense and unsteady. She was driving solo toward Plomond, too afraid to linger in Shirie with the Harper family¡¯s wrath looming.


    ¡°How are you holding up? My brother has been blowing up my phone, but I¡¯m too scared to pick up. Ernst won¡¯t stop calling me, either, and I¡¯m at a loss. What should I do now?¡±


    Rosie¡¯s tone sharpened,ced with irritation. ¡°Don¡¯t ask me! I¡¯m also trying to keep myself safe. I¡¯m heading to Plieca to lie low. You¡¯d better find a hiding spot, too, and don¡¯t reach out to me again for now.¡±


    Tina picked up on the strain in Rosie¡¯s voice. ¡°You sound off. What happened to your voice?¡±


    ¡°Nothing,¡± Rosie replied. She had no intention of admitting the brutal beatings she had endured. ¡°If there is nothing else, I¡¯ll hang up.¡±


    Tina quickly said, ¡°Wait, don¡¯t hang up! Judy is dead, and her brother is not someone to trifle with. I don¡¯t think the Harper family can handle Clive. Maybe we could convince him to shield us.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s voice turned cold, cutting through Tina¡¯s naive hope. ¡°Don¡¯t be foolish!


    Clive is dead, too, taken out by the Harper family and Ethan in a ruthless move. Don¡¯t walk straight into a trap! Crossing the Harpers is a one-way ticket to ruin. You really should understand that!¡±


    Rosie ended the call, irritation written all over her face.


    Meanwhile, panic had taken full hold of Tina. She simply couldn¡¯t ept this oue. Not long ago, the Russell family and the Harper family had stood shoulder to shoulder in the world of high society. But a string of betrayals and infighting had left the Russell family weakened, their influence decreasing significantly.


    Check the newest chapters on g?ln¦Ò¦Í????s


    Now, even with her family¡¯s protection, she could not escape the Harper family¡¯s retaliation.


    Regret gnawed at her. She shouldn¡¯t have listened to Rosie before.


    The idea of facing her parents filled her with dread. Disappointment had reced affection at home; they¡¯d started calling her foolish and refused to take her side.


    Dwelling on her own helplessness only fueled her bitterness. Frustrated, she pulled over to the side of the road and called Denis.


    Judy was Denis¡¯ wife, and Clive was Judy¡¯s brother. With both of them gone, Tina believed Denis owed it to them to get justice.


    Whenever Tina met Judy and Rosie, Judy would always talk about how much Denis loved her, showering her with gifts and romantic gestures, constantly saying ¡°I love you,¡± which made Tina envious. Surely, Denis would stop at nothing to avenge Judy.


    She hit the call button without hesitation.


    Yet, silence greeted her; Denis refused to pick up.


    Refusing to give up easily, Tina tried again, and then again. Each attempt led to the same result¡ªno answer.


    The more she thought about it, the more uneasy she grew. With Judy and Clive gone and police investigations underway, Denis must have his hands full with official questioning.


    Trying to calm herself, Tina whispered, ¡°He¡¯s probably too upset to answer right now.¡±


    Feeling conflicted, she stayed put in her car, wrestling with indecision, until finally, she chose to return to Shirle.


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 Chapter 1228

    ?Chapter 1228:


    Hope sprang up as she thought about the Wagner family¡¯s recent surge in power. Their name was now among the top four, and maybe, just maybe, they could hold their own against the Harper family.


    She refused to believe that no one could deal with the Harper family.


    Instead of heading home, she drove straight to Denis and Judy¡¯s ce.


    A little way from the gatedmunity, she stopped and slipped into a nearby shop to buy some fresh clothes. Sunsses and a maskpleted her disguise, keeping the watchful eyes of the police off her trail.


    She then sneaked toward the ce where Denis lived.


    Her suspicions were confirmed: police vehicles lined the entrance, officers standing in silent formation.


    Fear kept her from approaching. What if they¡¯d already connected her to everything that had happened?<fn71b0> Chapters first released on f?ndnovel</fn71b0>


    She paced, then finally gave up on the idea of walking in. A small restaurant across the street gave her cover¡ªa perfect ce to sit and spy on theings and goings nearby.


    Patience was her onlypanion as the hours dragged by. Around four in the afternoon, thest police car finally rolled away.


    Seizing the chance, Tina slipped past the gates and hurried to Denis¡¯ door. She rang the bell, nerves on edge.


    A housekeeper answered the door, barely ncing at her as she stepped inside. Shock hit Tina like a wave the moment she saw Denis sitting alone at the dining table, sipping wine, surrounded by an extravagant feast as if nothing in the world had gone wrong.


    He seemed in high spirits, swirling his wine ss and humming a tune. Azy smirk spread across his face as he caught Tina¡¯s stare. ¡°What, never seen a man rx before?¡± he asked.


    L§Ñ¦Ó??¦Ó ch?¦Ñ¦Ó?rs ¦Én g??l??ov?ls.??????


    Shock and disbelief filled Tina¡¯s voice. ¡°How can you sit here drinking as if nothing happened? Your wife was murdered! Shouldn¡¯t you be trying to get justice for her? And her brother, Clive¡¯s death was just as brutal, but you¡­¡± Tina could notprehend this situation. She questioned, ¡°Are you not upset about your wife¡¯s death?¡±


    A cold, almost mockingugh escaped Denis as he replied, ¡°Upset? Why would I be upset?¡±


    Tina said, ¡°Did you not love her? Lavish gifts, sweet words, always keeping her happy. If that wasn¡¯t love, then what was it all for?¡±


    Denis shook his head. ¡°Your words just prove how foolish you are. Judy was fat, ugly, and unreasonable. She always humiliated me, even hitting me sometimes. How could I possibly love her?¡±


    Getting up from his chair, he spread his arms as if to embrace his newfound freedom. ¡°Now that she¡¯s out of the picture, I¡¯ve got every Wagner family asset under my name. With Clive gone, the Russell fortunees to me, too. Why would I be sad? If anything, this calls for a celebration.¡±


    Tina was shocked. If she were honest with herself, she hadn¡¯t liked Judy either. Judy had been overbearing, impossible to reason with, and once, she had even struck her. Tina had wished for her death more than once.


    But hearing Denis admit that all his affection toward Judy had been nothing more than a well-worn mask was something she struggled to ept.


    Still, that wasn¡¯t the heart of the matter. What truly mattered was this¡ªif Denis had never loved Judy, then she couldn¡¯t persuade him to go against the Harper family.


    In fact, Judy¡¯s fate didn¡¯t matter to her; she felt zero sympathy for her death. She even thought Judy had iting.


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 Chapter 1229

    ?Chapter 1229:


    After some time, Tina managed topose herself. ¡°So you¡¯re telling me you don¡¯t n on avenging Judy?¡±


    ¡°Why would I bother? Judy spent a long time scheming to get rid of Brenna¡ªshe had iting, and I¡¯ve already told the police everything.¡±


    ¡°But she was your wife! Do you really hate her that much?¡± Tina¡¯s stomach twisted. Things were veering off in a direction she hadn¡¯t seening. Not only had Denis refused to avenge Judy, but he had gone as far asying bare her wrongdoings to the police.


    A sinking feeling crawled over Tina. If she lingered any longer, Denis might just hand her over to the authorities.


    Without another word, she slipped out the door, not daring to look back.<fn2fcb> For original chapters go to find?novel</fn2fcb>


    Life had taken a pleasant turn for Gracie since she moved in with Elsa. The days were peaceful, and Elsa, aware of Gracie¡¯s past suicide attempts, went out of her way to make sure Gracie feltfortable.


    Evenings brought a new highlight. Ethan often dropped by to check on Gracie, never stayingte, but his visits kept her hopes up for a future with him. If she yed the part of the fragile soul a bit longer and maybe staged another suicide attempt, she believed she might be able to be with Ethan.


    Once Ethan left for the night, Gracie would always ring up Rosie to n their next move.


    Normally, Rosie picked up without dy.


    Tonight, though, when she tried Rosie¡¯s usual number, she found that Rosie¡¯s phone was turned off.


    ¡°Probably just a dead battery,¡± Gracie muttered and dialed the backup number Rosie had given her, only to find that one had been out of service.


    Confusion creased Gracie¡¯s brow. Something about this felt off.


    ???¨¨?? ¡é?¦¤T?¦Å§Á? ?¦Ç ?a?§Úo¦Í???.???


    She decided to let it go and checked her phone before bed, only to see shocking news¡ªClive and Judy had died in a shootout.


    Neither Rosie nor Tina was mentioned in the news, but Gracie¡¯s thoughts went straight to Rosie.


    After all, Rosie and Judy had been close, sometimes discussing shady dealings. Gracie had always been on the fringe, but she knew Rosie was clever and often manipted others.


    Could Rosie be involved in this incident?


    Was this why she couldn¡¯t reach Rosie?


    Maybe Rosie had already been arrested by the police?


    Every possibility ran through Gracie¡¯s mind, but she found no reports of any recent arrests.


    The next morning, Gracie tried calling Rosie again.


    This time, Rosie finally answered the call.


    Trying to keep her tone casual, Gracie said, ¡°I tried reaching youst night, but¡­¡±


    ¡°I couldn¡¯t get through.¡±


    Rosie, cautious about potential police questioning of Gracie, remained calm.


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡± she asked.


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 Chapter 1230

    ?Chapter 1230:


    She said nothing about Judy, waiting to see if Gracie would bring it up herself.


    Letting the missed calls slide, Gracie changed the subject. ¡°I¡¯m at Ethan¡¯s ce right now. His mother treats me kindly, and yesterday, Ethan came over and talked to me. I feel like things are getting better between us. What do you think I should do next to get Ethan to fall for me? How do I get him to leave Brenna?¡± Rosie, distracted by the matter about Judy, didn¡¯t have time for this.


    ¡°You¡¯re moving too fast. Let¡¯s just wait and watch for a bit,¡± she said.


    Since Gracie hadn¡¯t asked about her location, Rosie figured Gracie wasn¡¯t with the police.


    ¡°So, have the police been looking for Brenna?¡± she asked.


    The question caught Gracie off guard. ¡°Why would the police be looking for Brenna?¡±


    Rosie realized Gracie was clueless about the matter and only focused on her romantic pursuits.<fn3f1a> The source of th?s content is find?novel</fn3f1a>


    ¡°Brenna is the one who killed Judy,¡± Rosie said, quickly realizing Gracie wouldn¡¯t be any help.


    Shock rippled through Gracie. ¡°What? Brenna killed Judy? That can¡¯t be true. She doesn¡¯t seem like the type.¡±


    Gracie was skeptical, thinking Brenna seemed incapable of such an act. ¡°Why would you make something like that up? Listen, just tell me¡ªhave the police questioned Brenna?¡± Her words came fast. She wanted to know if the Harper family got dragged into the mess.


    If not, she would not hesitate to give the police some leads, as she had already fled to Plieca and was beyond their reach.


    Uncertainty tinged Gracie¡¯s reply. ¡°I really don¡¯t know, but I don¡¯t think so. I¡¯ll stop by thepanyter to check and get back to you.¡±


    Your update hub: g?l¦Ç¦Ò¦Í??s?c?m


    Eager to piece things together, Gracie started pressing for details about Judy¡¯s death.


    Rosie¡¯s patience snapped. ¡°Knowing too much will not help you. Stop asking.¡±


    The call ended before Gracie could ask another question.


    After breakfast, Gracie went straight to the Mitchell Group.


    Inside the lobby, she approached the receptionist. ¡°Has Ms. Harper shown up today?¡±


    The receptionist replied respectfully, ¡°Not yet.¡±


    Drawing her own conclusions, Gracie guessed that Brenna hadn¡¯t been taken in by the police; if she had, the receptionist would have let something slip.


    Unfortunately, the photo incident had notnded Brenna in jail.


    ording to thetest from the police, the case would move forward once Terry came back.


    Making her way upstairs, Gracie chose to wait in Brenna¡¯s office.


    It wasn¡¯t long before Brenna arrived.


    No emotion crossed Brenna¡¯s face as she took in Gracie¡¯s presence. ¡°Why are you here? I told you already, I wasn¡¯t the one who spread that photo.¡±


    Gracie¡¯s tone was icy, her annoyance growing. ¡°Did you kill Judy?¡±


    ¡°What makes you think I¡¯d do something like that? Who told you that?¡± Brenna said.


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 Chapter 1231

    ?Chapter 1231:


    Her attitude only fueled Gracie¡¯s dislike for her. ¡°Rosie told me you did it. Don¡¯t even try to deny it. I never imagined you¡¯d actually kill someone.¡±


    Realization dawned in Brenna¡¯s expression. ¡°So Rosie¡¯s behind it. I should¡¯ve known. Of course, she¡¯d say that. I¡¯m not exactly her favorite person. You should realize most of her usations are lies. If you believe her, you will be tricked by her in no time.¡±<fn0ae9> Th?s chapter is updated by find?novel</fn0ae9>


    Brenna¡¯s argument struck a chord with Gracie. After all, Rosie¡¯s reputation for sly tricks and easy lies preceded her.


    Taking a moment, Gracie observed Brenna intently. Even though nothing in Brenna¡¯s expression suggested dishonesty, an unshakable sense of unease lingered. Gracie simply disliked her.


    Weighing the trustworthiness of both women, Gracie eventually leaned toward believing Rosie over Brenna.


    Pointing an usatory finger, Gracie spoke up. ¡°You are not telling the truth! Rosie would never lie to me. Admit it¡ªyou are the one who killed Judy, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s face stayedposed, betraying no hint of panic. ¡°Unless you have something meaningful to say, please leave. I have work that needs my attention.¡±


    Gracie stood her ground. ¡°Maybe I cannot find proof, but the police will, Brenna. Don¡¯t get toofortable.¡±


    Waiting for any flicker of emotion from Brenna, Gracie saw nothing. Brenna remainedposed.


    Feeling let down by theck of response, Gracie turned and headed back to her office.


    Soon afterward, Greta arrived at Brenna¡¯s office, ready to give Brenna an update on the previous day¡¯s work. Before she managed to begin, Lorna entered after a soft knock at the door.


    g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s£®?§àm takes you away


    ¡°Boss, your foster father wants to speak with you. He says it¡¯s urgent.¡±


    ¡°Let him in,¡± said Brenna, a note of curiosity in her voice. She wondered if Alec would still be loyal to Rosie now that Rosie had run off.


    Alec, familiar with Brenna¡¯s office, walked in and sat directly across from her. ¡°Your office is far more upscale than mine.¡±


    Before replying, Brenna motioned for Greta and Lorna to step outside. ¡°Get to the point. What do you want?¡± she said to Alec.


    ¡°Your grandmother¡¯s discharge is scheduled for this afternoon. Will you be stopping by to see her?¡± Alec had no idea about Rosie¡¯s current predicament.


    A quick nod from Brenna followed. ¡°Yes, Gia called to tell me that first thing today. I¡¯ll go after I¡¯ve eaten lunch. Is there anything else?¡±


    Her voice carried no emotion, and theck of respect made Alec bristle. She was treating him as if he were not her foster father.


    Annoyance flickered in his eyes, but he held back. ¡°Whatever. Just make sure you show up. The bill for the hospital still needs to be paid.¡± So, he hade to remind her to pay.


    Brenna¡¯s face hardened. ¡°I¡¯ll settle everything.¡±


    Instead of leaving, Alec remained seated, weighing his next words. ¡°Mack has been applying for a job all over town, and every interview ends in rejection. Yourpany has taken on new people recently. Could you let him work here or at Mr. Mitchell¡¯spany?¡±


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 Chapter 1232

    ?Chapter 1232:


    She didn¡¯t hesitate. ¡°There¡¯s no opening that fits him here. He should consider other options and lower his standards.¡±


    Frustration bubbled up in Alec¡¯s tone. ¡°I just don¡¯t get it. You grew up as part of the Barrett family, yet you refuse to help your brother get a job. Why¡ª¡±


    The moment Brenna shot him a chilling look, he stopped talking.


    After a while, unable to let the matter go, he muttered, ¡°Is the Harper family behind this? That¡¯s the only reason I can see for Mack being turned away everywhere.¡±


    Brenna said calmly, ¡°Suppose they did interfere. What difference would it make? I¡¯ve already let you be a security guard here. That is generous enough. I still remember exactly how Mack treated me when I lived with the Barrett family.¡±


    Alec red at Brenna, but no words escaped him. Brenna was no longer someone he could bully at will.


    She was too powerful now; she could easily ruin him.


    He dared not provoke Brenna, fearing she would beat him up like she had done with Mack.


    His aging body would not survive a beating.


    From what he knew of Brenna, she would not hesitate to do that to him.


    Left with no choice, Alec left.


    Brenna called Lorna in and told her to order Joann¡¯s favorite dishes. When lunchtime came, she made her way to the hospital with the food.


    Stepping out of the elevator, Brenna spotted Gia stationed outside the ward, a frown etched across her face.


    ¡°What are you doing out here, Gia?¡± asked Brenna, a note of concern in her voice. ¡°Is something going on?¡±


    ???€$? ?§ß?t??§ñ? 1¦Ð ?al§Úo¦Í¦Å??.???


    Gia replied, ¡°Mr. Barrett told me to wait outside. He wanted a word with your grandmother in private. That never leads to anything good. I think he¡¯s nning something against you, Brenna.¡±


    Brenna listened to the conversation inside from the doorway.


    Alec said, ¡°Mom, Brenna has always done as you asked. Why not persuade her for me? These days, Isabe and I are the only ones bringing in money, and our expenses are piling up. Isabe just started her job and won¡¯t see her first paycheck until next month. My sry can¡¯t stretch to cover everything. Just ask Brenna for a million dors. That¡¯s barely anything to her since she¡¯s so rich. Even a sliver of her fortune could keep us afloat all year.¡±


    Without a word, Joann turned away and stared out the window, refusing to answer.


    Baffled by her attitude, Alec continued, ¡°Mom, I¡¯m your son; I am breaking my back to keep everyone fed in the family. Don¡¯t you have any sympathy for me? Can¡¯t you just help me out for once?¡±


    Finally, Joann faced him, her voice sharp. ¡°If you want her money, ask her yourself. I won¡¯t do it. You¡¯ve been taking advantage of her for years. Have you no shame?¡±


    Alec¡¯s frustration bubbled over. ¡°Mom, how can you say that to your own son? Everything I do is for the family. If I had more money, wouldn¡¯t you live infort too?¡±


    Brenna rolled her eyes. It wasn¡¯t like she didn¡¯t have money; she just didn¡¯t want to give any to Alec. She was certain Alec had joined the Mitchell Group with ulterior motives, not out of concern for her.


    She wasn¡¯t so foolish as to fall for his schemes.<fn43a5> For original chapters go to Find?Novel</fn43a5>


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 Chapter 1233

    ?Chapter 1233:


    She swung open the door, her icy stare locking onto Alec. He shifted ufortably, his eyes dodging hers, a stark contrast to the bravado he had disyed earlier.


    He had the nerve to threaten his mother, yet now, he cowered?


    ¡°Brenna, darling,e sit,¡± Joann said, her face lighting up with a warm smile as she beckoned Brenna closer.


    Brenna settled by the bedside, sping Joann¡¯s hand, and the two chatted. Alec tried several times to catch Joann¡¯s attention with subtle gestures, but she deliberately ignored him.


    Momentster, Ruby, Isabe, and Mack arrived.


    Ruby¡¯s and Mack¡¯s faces soured at the sight of Brenna. The reason was no mystery. Brenna had tly refused to secure a job for Mack.


    Brenna had secured a well-paying role for Isabe, pulling in over thirty thousand a month plus bonuses, while refusing to extend the same favor to Mack.


    Ruby couldn¡¯t wrap her head around the matter, no matter how much she mulled it over.


    Her memory burned with the image of Mack¡¯s brutal thrashing during hisst meeting with Brenna.


    If not for the two formidable security guards stationed outside, Ruby might have lunged at Brenna.


    Though Brenna¡¯s presence grated on her nerves, Ruby dared not offend her. She just said coldly, ¡°We¡¯re strapped for cash. Joann¡¯s medical bills are piling up, and the hospital fees are overdue. Have you taken care of them? If not, do it soon.¡±


    Brenna responded calmly, ¡°Everything is paid, and the discharge papers are sorted.¡±


    Latest stories on g¦Á?¦Ç¦Òv???s


    Ruby, though aware Brenna wouldn¡¯t give them money easily, clung to a sliver of hope that she might contribute something for Joann¡¯s care.


    She said, ¡°Brenna, you know our family¡¯s fortunes aren¡¯t what they used to be. We can¡¯t afford health supplements anymore. Your grandmother needs proper care, and¡­¡±


    The nursing home isn¡¯t suitable for her condition. We¡¯re nning to bring her home to take care of her. Would you consider helping us with money for health supplements? It would help us look after her better.¡±


    Alec quickly said, ¡°Exactly. Your grandmother¡¯s health is frail, and the nursing home¡¯s care is inadequate. She would be better off living with us.¡±


    Joann¡¯s face darkened as she observed her son¡¯s and his wife¡¯s shameless greed.


    She said sharply, ¡°I was perfectly fine at the nursing home, free from your nonsense. I¡¯m not moving in with you. Your house is cramped as it is. Where would Isabe and Mack even sleep if I live with you?¡±


    Her piercing gaze cut through them, fully aware of their true motives.


    Brenna let out a coldugh, fully aware that any funds for health supplements would never reach Joann.


    ¡°Health supplements? I¡¯ll send them directly to my grandmother regrly. No need for you to trouble yourselves,¡± she said, her tone dripping with disdain. The mere sight of this family turned her stomach.


    By four in the afternoon, after Joann¡¯s IV drip wasplete, Brenna gently helped her into the car and drove her to the nursing home herself.<fn216f> ??? ????? ???????s ??? ?????s??? ?? FindN0vel</fn216f>


    Alec and Ruby stewed in silence, powerless to challenge Brenna.


    Alec and the others drove their own car to the nursing home.


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 Chapter 1234

    ?Chapter 1234:


    ¡°Isabe, how on earth did you convince Brenna to hand you a job?¡± Ruby asked again.


    Isabe¡¯s patience wore thin. Ruby¡¯s relentless questioning about the matter was exhausting.


    ¡°Mom, enough. I¡¯ve told you, I don¡¯t know. I admitted to her that I was wrong, and she offered me the job. That¡¯s it,¡± Isabe said. She couldn¡¯t bring herself to confess that Brenna had tasked her with keeping tabs on Alec, fearing Ruby would brand her a traitor to the family.


    Ruby let out a weary sigh, her voice tinged with frustration. ¡°Why did she do that?¡±


    Mack cut in abruptly, his tone thoughtful yet firm. ¡°Perhaps it¡¯s because we wronged her long ago, and she still harbors resentment toward us. Isabe, on the other hand, came back to the familyter and never mistreated her.¡± Alec nodded in agreement, his expression somber. ¡°That makes sense.¡±


    Ruby¡¯s voice red with indignation. ¡°We¡¯ve made our apologies. What more does she want? We raised her, for God¡¯s sake! It¡¯s utterly heartless of her to treat us this way.¡±


    At the nursing home, Brenna discreetly slipped Joann a bundle of cash, a hundred thousand dors, tucked inside a in brown envelope.


    Joann¡¯s eyes widened at the sight of the money. Then, she gently pushed it back toward Brenna. ¡°I have no need for this. Take it back with you. If it stays here, those cold-hearted people will surely snatch it up.¡±


    Brenna shook her head, resolute. ¡°Please keep it. You deserve to have some spending money. Even your clothes are fromst year! Next time I visit, I¡¯ll bring you some new ones.¡±


    Joann¡¯s face softened into a warm smile. ¡°There is no need for that, my dear. At my age, appearances hardly matter. These clothes are barely a year old; they¡¯re still perfectly fine to wear.¡±


    New updates live on g¦Ál¦Ç¦Ò¦Íe?s


    Just then, the sound of Ruby¡¯s and Alec¡¯s voices drifted in from outside. Joann¡¯s hands moved swiftly, tucking the brown envelope deep within the wardrobe, nestling it carefully among a stack of folded garments.<fneea2> Latest content published on find[?]ovel</fneea2>


    Brenna quietly guided Joann to the couch, settling her in with gentle care. Not long after, Alec and Ruby walked inside, their suspicious movements betraying an obvious agenda.


    ¡°Mom, we¡¯ve got a few things to take care of, so we¡¯ll head out now. Just give me a ring if you need anything.¡± Alec shot a quick nce around the room, believing that Brenna would leave some money for Joann there.


    Ruby¡¯s gaze drifted to the wardrobe, and she said, ¡°Joann, your clothes must be dirty. I¡¯ll take them home, wash them, and bring them back when they¡¯re clean.¡±


    A shadow passed over Joann¡¯s face. ¡°That won¡¯t be necessary. Both of you can go. Do not visit me if there is nothing to gain. I know you onlye here wanting something from me, not because you care about me.¡±


    Ruby¡¯s cheeks flushed with embarrassment. She lingered near the wardrobe, forcing a weak smile. ¡°How could you say that, Joann? We¡¯ve been checking in on you ever since you started these hospital stays.¡±


    Joann¡¯s reply was cold. ¡°Drop the act. The caregiver¡¯s been looking after me, not you. I can¡¯t recall you making a meal or doingundry for me, not even once. When I need help in the bathroom, it¡¯s always the caregiver who steps in. What have either of you actually done? Honestly, I don¡¯t need your help.¡±


    With that, Ruby¡¯s expression soured. She turned around and headed toward the door to leave.


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 Chapter 1235

    ?Chapter 1235:


    Alec lingered a moment longer, his eyes darting onest time to the wardrobe before following Ruby out.


    Brenna leaned closer to Joann, her voice gentle. ¡°Joann, it¡¯s risky keeping the money stashed in your wardrobe. You might want to find a safer spot.¡±


    Joann pulled out the cash and pressed it into Brenna¡¯s hands. ¡°You¡¯ve always had a good heart. Even after everything the Barrett family put you through, you¡¯re still kind to them. Anyone else would have taken revenge on them long ago. Please, take this back. I have enough saved up for myself.¡±


    As she spoke, Joann slipped the money into Brenna¡¯s bag. ¡°If I keep the money here, those two will sniff it out eventually.¡±


    Brenna nodded, her gaze soft. ¡°Alright. I¡¯lle by often. Take care of yourself.¡±


    Gracie arrived at Ethan¡¯s house just as Elsa returned home.


    ¡°Finally, my mom¡¯s out of the hospital. I¡¯ve been running back and forth for days, and it¡¯s worn me out. I could barely get anyone at home to lift a finger and help me,¡± Elsa said, fatigue evident in every step.


    Before Gracie could respond, her phone buzzed. She checked the screen and recognized the number immediately. It was that relentless buyer pestering her about buying the Mitchell Group shares.


    ¡°I¡¯ve already told you, I¡¯m not selling. Stop calling,¡± she said, her tone sharp as she answered the call.


    ¡°Miss Wilson, I can offer you sixty billion. Imagine how much easier your life would be with that money: your debts will be gone, and you¡¯ll have more than enough left over to live infort.¡±


    ¡°No. I¡¯m keeping my shares,¡± Gracie answered without hesitation, ending the call and dropping her phone into her handbag.


    When she did that, her fingers brushed against something unexpected¡ªcold, hard, and metallic. Startled, she paused. She knew for a fact she hadn¡¯t ced anything like that in her bag.<fn18a5> Newest update provided by FindN()vel</fn18a5>


    Stay tuned galnov??????.co??


    When she withdrew her hand, she was shocked to see blood on it.


    Panic set in. She checked for cuts but found none, then quickly searched through her bag. At the bottom sat a bloody knife, and beside it, a note. The message was short and chilling: ¡°Pay up, or pay with your life.¡±


    All the color drained from Gracie¡¯s face. She¡¯d barely left the office all day, and her bag had never left her side. How could anyone have slipped something into her bag without her noticing?


    She was terrified.


    Her gazended on the doorway, where a man in a ck hooded jacket leaned against the frame, a cigarette dangling from his lips. He offered her a sinister grin, then turned and walked away without a word.


    Her knees nearly buckled beneath her. She thought she¡¯d left threats like this behind after leaving Norview and settling her father¡¯s business. Now, those nightmares had followed her here.


    She had finally foundfort in her current life, and the thought of giving up her shares just to erase old debts held no appeal. If she sold the shares to settle what she owed, Ethan would eventually discover the truth, and that meant she¡¯d have to leave his side. She could not bear that; Ethan was all she had now.


    There was no way she would let that happen.


    Despite her racing pulse, she still didn¡¯t want to sell the shares.


    Meanwhile, Elsa copsed onto the living room couch, grateful as a servant set a ss of water on the table for her.


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 Chapter 1236

    ?Chapter 1236:


    Her brow furrowed with concern when she looked at Gracie. ¡°You look so pale. Are you all right?¡±


    Gracie forced a smile. ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I just got a little dizzy, that¡¯s all.¡±


    ¡°Come sit with me,¡± Elsa said, patting the cushion beside her.


    Worry tugged at Gracie. The threat in her bag had left her on edge, and she wondered if things might get worse. Maybe it was time she did what Brenna had done and hired a couple of bodyguards to protect herself.


    ¡°Are you still nning to help out with Belen?¡± Gracie asked casually.


    Elsa nodded, exhaustion showing in her eyes. ¡°Yeah, my brother and I take turns taking care of her every week. He¡¯s handling it this week, and I¡¯ll do it next week.¡±


    That answer left Gracie quietly disappointed. That meant she would no longer have an excuse to stay at Ethan¡¯s house.


    Momentster, Ethan walked through the door, his presence a surprise since he usually had evening ns.


    As he stepped inside, he was still on his phone. ¡°Don¡¯t hold back. I don¡¯t want them getting another shot at hurting Brenna. Do exactly what I told you.¡±


    Ethan ended the call and immediately noticed Elsa¡¯s face clouded with displeasure.


    Elsa cast a sharp sideways nce at him. ¡°What now?¡±


    Ethan responded with calm indifference. ¡°I would appreciate it if you didn¡¯t meddle in my affairs.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s temper red. ¡°What kind of attitude is that? Tell me again¡ªwhat exactly happened with Brenna?¡±


    But Ethan didn¡¯t trust her. If he told her everything, she would only turn it into gossip.


    Read exclusive updates g¦Á?¦Ç¦Òv??ls


    ¡°I just came to check on you. Since you seem fine, I¡¯ll be on my way,¡± he said.


    Still simmering with anger, Elsa grabbed his arm. ¡°Where do you think you¡¯re going? It¡¯s nearly dinner time. Stay, eat with us, and spend the night here.¡±<fn2958> The source of th?s content is Find?Novel</fn2958>


    ¡°Did Belen get discharged without any issues?¡± Ethan had never intended to stay. He was only here to ask Elsa how she nned to take care of Belen. Though Belen was out of the hospital, her broken bones would take at least three months to heal. Someone needed to look after her.


    ¡°Everything went well. My brother and I are taking turns taking care of her,¡± Elsa replied.


    Ethan gave a brief nod, then turned to leave without another word.


    Elsa shouted angrily, ¡°Stop right there! This is your home, Ethan. Where exactly do you think you¡¯re going? Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re nning to eat at Brenna¡¯s ce again. You are not going!¡±


    Without waiting for his reply, she dragged him toward the dining room. ¡°I honestly cannot, for the life of me, understand why Brenna holds such a special ce in your heart,¡± Elsa muttered bitterly.


    Ethan replied bluntly, ¡°You should stop meddling in my affairs. Instead, focus on Kenny. How are his injuries? Has he gone back to work yet? It¡¯s been more than two weeks since the ident. Has he even forgiven you yet?¡±


    Elsa felt frustrated by his words. Her eyes flickered toward the table full of food; suddenly, she had no appetite.


    ¡°Don¡¯t mention him. I raised him since he was a child, and yet, he chose to live with your father. He won¡¯t answer my calls. He won¡¯t even tell me where he is,¡± she said.


    ¡°Do you know why Kenny won¡¯t tell you where he is?¡± Ethan asked calmly as he picked up his utensils.


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 Chapter 1237

    ?Chapter 1237:


    Elsa frowned. ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Because you meddle too much. He doesn¡¯t want you controlling him. Therefore, you should stay out of my business, too. I¡¯m an adult who makes my own choices. I don¡¯t need your advice. As you get older, it¡¯s better to focus on your own well-being and not stress so much about us. The more you meddle, the more you¡¯ll make yourself frustrated.¡±


    Elsa was rendered momentarily speechless, her heart aching. Tears welled up in her eyes, and she felt a deep sense of grievance.


    ¡°Ethan, you shouldn¡¯t speak to your mother like that,¡± Gracie said gently, noticing Elsa¡¯s distress. ¡°You really should apologize to her.¡±


    Ethan shot Gracie a cold nce. ¡°You shouldn¡¯t interfere in my business, either.¡± His words were so blunt that they left Gracie awkwardly silent.


    Ethan straightened his tie and stood up. ¡°You two go ahead and eat. I have things to take care of, so I won¡¯t be joining you.¡±


    He couldn¡¯t stand the atmosphere where the two of them were always trying to dictate how he should act.


    As soon as Ethan left, Elsa¡¯s tears finally fell.


    Gracie quietly handed her a tissue. ¡°Elsa, don¡¯t be upset.¡±


    Elsa let out a bitter sigh. ¡°I won¡¯t bother with him anymore. He has been against me since he was a child, never listening to me. Now that he¡¯s grown, he listens even less. I shouldn¡¯t have given birth to my sons in the first ce¡­¡± Gracie could only sit there, not knowing how tofort her.


    After a while, Elsa finally managed topose herself and asked Gracie, ¡°Has something happened to Brenna?¡±


    Gracie shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m not sure. I heard Judy is dead, and people are saying Brenna killed her. But the police never came for her. I even asked Brenna directly about it, and she denied it. So¡­ I honestly don¡¯t know what¡¯s going on.¡±<fn5035> For more chapters visit F?nd-Novel</fn5035>


    Feel inspired by ga  ln o vels .


    Elsa didn¡¯t know Judy and had no interest in the messy entanglements between these people, so she didn¡¯t ask any more questions.


    Ethan left his house and drove straight to Brenna¡¯s house.


    He arrived just as dinner was being served.


    He quickly greeted Shepard and Giselle.


    Expression unreadable, Shepard merely gestured toward the chair across from him. ¡°Sit down. There is something I need to discuss with you.¡±


    Ethan cast a brief, gentle nce at Brenna before taking the seat beside her.


    ¡°What is it?¡± Ethan asked.


    Shepard, whose opinion of Ethan had improved recently, replied, ¡°I heard someone is secretly trying to buy Gracie¡¯s shares in the Mitchell Group. Did you know about this?¡±


    Ethan nodded. ¡°I do. I also know Rosie wants to buy them, but Gracie hasn¡¯t decided to sell the shares yet.¡±


    Shepard let out a small sigh of relief. ¡°Good. I¡¯m d you are aware of it. I believe Gracie will eventually sell the shares, so you¡¯d better act fast. If someone else buys those shares, it couldplicate your business decisions.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s only three percent of the shares. That won¡¯t affect anything,¡± Ethan said, ncing at Brenna. ¡°I n to buy those three percent and give them to Brenna as an engagement gift.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s eyes widened, her gaze turning gentle. ¡°Really?¡±


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 Chapter 1238

    ?Chapter 1238:


    Just then, Giselle spoke up, her tone firm. ¡°Brenna is still young. She has only been back for less than a year. I want her to stay with us a little longer¡­ I¡¯m not ready for her to get married so soon.¡±


    Ethan frowned slightly, then looked at Giselle. ¡°Maybe I can buy a house nearby, and Brenna and I will live there after getting married.¡±


    Gracie stood outside the Harper residence, hidden behind the overgrown shrubs lining the roadside. She had been waiting there for half an hour.


    She had expected Ethan toe out at any moment. With the number of security guards the Harper family kept around, she didn¡¯t dare go and peek inside.


    It was already half past nine in the evening. Her legs throbbed from standing so long in the same crouched position when Ethan finally stepped out of the house and walked to his car.


    She didn¡¯t move. Only when his car pulled away from the driveway did she slip out from her hiding spot.


    She rushed home and, upon arriving, sent a prerecorded video to Ethan.


    Ethan was driving when he heard his phone buzz with a message. It was his private line, the one he rarely used for business. He figured it might be from Brenna.


    He nced down and saw the video Gracie had sent.


    In the video, Gracie was sobbing uncontrobly. Her face was pale, her eyes wide with fear. She clumsily wiped her tears away.


    ¡°Ethan, I found a bloodstained knife in my bag with a threatening note. I¡¯m so scared. Pleasee back¡­¡±


    The video shook as she fumbled with the camera, then it tilted down to show the bag. Inside was a knife, streaked with dried blood, a folded note resting beside it.


    A hand reached into the frame and retrieved both items. When the camera stopped shaking, Ethan was finally able to read the note.


    Exclusive updates g¦Ál¦Ç¦Ò¦Í??s.c?m


    His lips pressed into a thin line. He then let out a sigh, more irritated than worried. Gracie was bing a real nuisance.


    He set the phone down and kept driving. But at the next intersection, he found himself turning the wheel. Against his better judgment, he headed back home. When he returned to the house, Gracie was curled up on the living room couch, still crying. Elsa sat beside her.


    Gracie was exining her debt situation to Elsa.


    Elsa appeared irritated, having lost her previous affection for Gracie and now feeling displeased with her.


    She had once hoped to let Gracie be her future daughter-inw. But that hope had withered the second she learned about Gracie¡¯s massive debt.


    She didn¡¯t want her son marrying a woman buried in debt.


    Elsa¡¯s patience was hanging by a thread. Finding out that Gracie had no inheritance, no financial security, and was drowning in debt had changed everything. Even Brenna, with all her ws, suddenly seemed like the better choice for Ethan.


    ¡°Stop crying. My son¡¯s here,¡± Elsa said to Gracie sharply. In her mind, Gracie no longer had the right to be part of their lives.


    She regretted not digging deeper before epting Gracie into their home. Letting Gracie stay, believing she was a suitable match for Ethan¡­ She must have lost her senses.


    Gracie, still wrapped in her distress, didn¡¯t notice the coldness in Elsa¡¯s voice. She just kept crying.


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    .<fnf2c4> Chapters first released on f?ndnovel</fnf2c4>

 Chapter 1239

    ?Chapter 1239:


    As soon as Ethan stepped inside, his eyes immediatelynded on the bloodstained knife and the note lying on the table. He picked up the paper and frowned. The message was scrawled in dark red ink, the letters bold and uneven. Under the dim lighting, it looked almost as if it had been written in blood.<fn8a31> Find the newest release on ?ovelFind</fn8a31>


    It was handwritten, but that didn¡¯t mean much. Tracing the person who had written this would be next to impossible.


    ¡°Ethan, what should I do? Will they kill me?¡± Gracie clutched his hand, panic trembling in her voice. ¡°You¡¯re the only one I can count on now. They followed me here. What if they break in? What do I do then?¡±


    Ethan gave her a steady look, trying to calm her down. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. There is a security guard here. They won¡¯t be able toe here. Get some rest. I¡¯ll have someone look into this first thing tomorrow.¡±


    Gracie nodded through her tears. ¡°Alright. But please stay. I¡¯m scared they¡¯lle once you leave.¡±


    Ethan nced at Elsa. Their rtionship had been tensetely, but he couldn¡¯t take any chances with her safety. He gave a small nod and said nothing more. Unwilling to spend more time with Gracie, Elsa stood and pointed toward the stairs. ¡°Go upstairs and sleep.¡±


    Gracie hesitated but eventually did as told.


    After Gracie had left, Elsa turned to Ethan. ¡°She has massive debt, and you never told me? How could someone like that even think of marrying you? That is outrageous!¡±


    Ethan smirked sarcastically. ¡°Would you have stopped pushing her toward me if you¡¯d known?¡±


    Elsa¡¯s face flushed with anger. ¡°Of course. From now on, I won¡¯t get involved in anything concerning you or your brother. It only leads to trouble. Your brother doesn¡¯t even listen to me anymore. He can marry whoever he wants, I¡¯m done.¡±


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    ¡°Just focus on yourself. It¡¯s better that way. Stop meddling in our lives,¡± Ethan said.


    Elsa folded her arms. ¡°How much does Gracie actually owe?¡±


    Ethan shook his head. ¡°On paper, it¡¯s 14.8 billion. But there¡¯s probably more. Undisclosed debts, hidden liabilities¡­ We haven¡¯t even calcted the full amount yet. The Wilson Group made plenty of enemies in Norview. Why else would Steven refuse to return to Norview?¡±


    Elsa exhaled sharply and sank into the couch. ¡°You really never know people. I treated her like family and weed her into our home. And yet, she kept all of this from me. She¡¯s not trustworthy. Ethan, marrying someone like her would only bring you endless trouble. I mean it. I won¡¯t interfere in your life anymore.¡± She felt relieved to have discovered this early. Otherwise, things would have been much worse.


    A piercing scream shattered the quiet, reverberating from the upper floor. It was Gracie, her voiceced with terror.


    Elsa¡¯s brow furrowed as she exchanged a nce with Ethan, irritation creeping into her tone. ¡°What happened to her now?¡± she muttered.


    She had once pegged Gracie as the poised heiress of the Wilson Group, a figure of grace and affluence. Even after Gracie¡¯s family¡¯s financial ruin, Elsa assumed Gracie¡¯s father had left her a tidy sum. Never had she imagined that the situation would turn out like this¡ªGracie had a huge debt to pay now.


    Ethan, equally frustrated, sighed heavily. ¡°I¡¯ll go see what is wrong.¡±


    As he stepped into the upstairs bedroom, Gracie¡¯s shrieks still echoed, loud enough to rouse even the neighbors.


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 Chapter 1240

    Chapter 1240:


    The sight that greeted Ethan stopped him cold; a bloodied chickeny sprawled across the bed, its neck nearly severed, blood soaking the linens in a ghastly stain.


    His expression darkened as he summoned Wade Lee, the lone security guard in their employ.


    A respected veteran with a slight limp, Wade was a recent hire, filling the void left by the previous guard¡¯s departure to his hometown.


    ¡°I am sorry, Mr. Mitchell,¡± Wade said, his tone apologetic. ¡°I¡¯ll review the surveince footage immediately to uncover what happened.¡±


    In mere minutes, Wade returned, his face grim. ¡°I¡¯m terribly sorry, Mr. Mitchell. The cameras have been sabotaged. It¡¯s my oversight.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s gaze hardened. Wade was not aspetent as thest security guard. ¡°You are fired,¡± he said curtly.


    Someone had infiltrated their home, nting such a gruesome disy with ease, and Wade, the supposed guard, hadn¡¯t a clue.


    Such failure was uneptable.


    Wade met Ethan¡¯s eyes briefly, offered no defense, and quietly left.


    Ethan directed the household staff to clear the grisly scene and rece the bedding, his mind already racing with next steps.


    Gracie, trembling, refused to stay in her room. ¡°Ethan, I can¡¯t sleep in that room anymore,¡± she said. ¡°Let me stay in your room. What if the intruderes back?¡±


    Ethan looked at her coolly. ¡°You can stay in a different room,¡± he replied. ¡°I¡¯ll arrange for thepany¡¯s security team toe here. Once they¡¯re here, I¡¯m leaving.¡±


    His resolve to depart remained unshaken.


    Gracie¡¯s heart sank, a bitter pang twisting within her. Even though she was facing such a chilling threat, Ethan¡¯s concern for her safety seemed nonexistent.


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    She couldn¡¯t help but think that if it were Brenna in her ce, Ethan would definitely stay by her side. The unfairness of it stung deeply.<fnbab7> Read full story at find¡¤novel</fnbab7>


    Tears welled in her eyes, spilling over as she clutched Ethan¡¯s arm, her voice breaking. ¡°Please, don¡¯t go. Stay with us. It¡¯s too dangerous for Elsa and me here.¡±


    Elsa, her patience with Gracie long exhausted, found the disy cloying. ¡°That is enough!¡± Elsa snapped, swatting Gracie¡¯s hand away from Ethan with a scowl. ¡°Stop clinging to him.¡±


    Gracie reluctantly released Ethan but continued her soft pleas.


    Ethan gave a slight nod, his expression softening just a fraction. Even if he felt little for Gracie, his mother¡¯s safety weighed on him.


    He believed he indeed should stay.


    After all, what if that intruder returned?


    Ethan promptly contacted the head of hispany¡¯s security division, and within the hour, ten seasoned guards arrived at the house.


    He directed them to scour every corner of the house, ensuring no intruder lingered in the shadows.


    As the night deepened, Ethan retreated to his room, the weight of the day lingering. He took a long shower to wash away the tension.


    .


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    .<hr>


    Message from Noah: Have a really really nice weekend dear readers. God loves you and Noah wishes you all the best. (¤Å ? _?)¤Å?


    .

 Chapter 1241

    ?Chapter 1241:


    A soft knock at the door echoed as he emerged from the bathroom. Suspecting it was Gracie, he donned long-sleeved pajamas before opening the door.


    As anticipated, Gracie stood there, her eyes rimmed with red, her expression forlorn. ¡°Do you need something?¡± Ethan asked tly.


    Gracie was in a sleeveless nightdress, and the faint scar on her wrist stood out starkly.


    ¡°Ethan, I¡¯m terrified they¡¯lle back tonight,¡± Gracie said, her voice trembling. ¡°Could you leave your door unlocked while you sleep? Just in case? If they return, I could run to you for safety.¡±


    Ethan hesitated, reluctance settling in his chest. ¡°That is not¡ª¡±


    He did not want to agree, but he also did not want to be pestered by Gracie about this.


    Gracie¡¯s pleas grew more desperate. ¡°I won¡¯t bother you unless there is real danger. I promise.¡±


    Still, Ethan said, ¡°There are ten guards patrolling tonight. No one is getting in.¡±


    ¡°No, Ethan, I don¡¯t feel safe,¡± Gracie countered, her voice breaking into sobs. ¡°I¡¯m begging you. The fear is suffocating. I would rather not live than endure this constant dread.¡±


    Exasperated, Ethan relented, saying, ¡°Fine. I won¡¯t lock the door.¡±


    Gracie returned to her room, leaving her door ajar as she slipped into bed. A sly, cold smile curled her lips.


    Her n was falling into ce wlessly. Even if she couldn¡¯t have Ethan, she would not let Brenna have him, either. She tapped out a quick message to Rosie.


    ¡°Your n is working like a charm. Thank you.¡±


    To cover her tracks, Gracie deleted the messages after receiving Rosie¡¯s reply, ensuring no trace of their exchange remained.


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    At one in the morning, Gracie rose silently, her footsteps light as she crept to Ethan¡¯s room, her heart racing with anticipation.


    Ethan¡¯s room was expansive, with a cozy sitting area leading to the bedroom where he slept.


    Gracie slipped through the bedroom door, her eyes falling on Ethan¡¯s serene, sleeping face.


    With careful precision, she slid onto the bed beside Ethan. She then pulled out her phone, angling it, and snapped a photo with a faint click.


    She looked at the photo with a thrill of triumph. In it, theyy side by side, facing the same direction, her head resting on Ethan¡¯s arm, his other arm loosely draped over her waist.<fne7b8> Discover more novels at find?novel</fne7b8>


    The photo was wless, a staged portrait of intimacy.


    As she prepared to slip away, her phone was abruptly taken away from her grasp.


    Gracie¡¯s body went rigid, a cold sweat breaking out across her skin. In the next instant, a sharp kick sent her tumbling off the bed.


    ¡°Ethan¡­¡± Gracie¡¯s voice trembled, caught in apromising moment. Her eyes locked onto Ethan¡¯s, frantically searching for an excuse, but her mind drew a nk.


    ¡°Is this why you insisted I leave the door unlocked?¡± Ethan shot up from the bed, his icy stare piercing through Gracie, his face dark with anger.


    ¡°Ethan, I¡¯m so sorry. I just love you so much. Please don¡¯t be mad. I¡¯ll delete the photo right now¡­¡±


    Gracie circled the bed, reaching for the phone in his hand.


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 Chapter 1242

    ?Chapter 1242:


    ¡°Back off,¡± Ethan said, his tone cold as steel.


    He swiftly deleted the photo and checked for any backups. Satisfied there were none, he tossed the phone back to her.


    ¡°At first light, you¡¯re going back to your ce. Don¡¯t ever step foot in my house again.¡± His voice hardened. ¡°If you do something like this again, you¡¯ll be sent back to Norview.¡±


    Gracie bit her lip, feigning hurt, as if Ethan were the one in the wrong. ¡°I was just scared, Ethan. I feel safe with you. I love you¡­¡± Seizing his brief distraction, she lunged at him.


    Ethan dodged before she could reach him, and Gracie stumbled, copsing onto the bed, her body shaking with sobs.


    Ethan grabbed some clothes from the closet, slung them over his arm, and left without a word.


    Gracie stared after him, despair in her voice. ¡°Do you really hate me that much?¡± Ethan stormed out of the house, not even changing his clothes, and drove to a different apartment of his. He showered repeatedly, scrubbing hard to erase any trace of Gracie¡¯s scent on him.


    Even after that, he still felt Gracie¡¯s scent lingering. If Brenna found out about this, she would certainly be upset.


    Gracie retreated to her room, consumed by regret. She shouldn¡¯t have acted so rashly or listened to Rosie¡¯s advice. She knew Rosie was trouble, yet she had followed her advice anyway. Her foolishness gnawed at her.


    Sleep eluded her until dawn.


    Gracie rushed through breakfast and drove to the office, her mind racing with how to exin the incident to Ethan.


    While she was driving, a ck sedan suddenly veered dangerously close, forcing her to m on the brakes to avoid a crash.


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    ¡°Are you blind?¡± she eximed in anger.


    As she prepared to confront the driver, several masked men in ck emerged from that car and the cars nearby, wielding metal pipes. She noticed the license tes of their cars were obscured.


    The men quickly began smashing her car with force.<fnadf4> Checktest chapters at findnovel</fnadf4>


    The impacts only grew louder, with the ss threatening to break at any moment.


    Terrified, Gracie stayed inside, too scared to step out. She fumbled for her phone to call Ethan but dropped it in her panic.


    As she reached down, the window finally gave way. The attackers yanked open the door, dragged her out, and beat her.


    Gracie curled into a ball on the ground, their blows unyielding despite her pleas.


    Each strike felt like it could shatter her bones.


    ¡°Why are you doing this?¡± she cried, shielding her head in fear.


    ¡°Sell your shares and pay your debt, or we¡¯ll kill you!¡± They kept striking, the pipesnding blow after blow.


    Graciey still, barely conscious. Some onlookers called the police, others called an ambnce.


    When she came to, she was in a hospital bed.


    Ethan sat on a nearby couch, his face impassive as he spoke on the phone. ¡°We need to catch those people,¡± he said before hanging up and approaching her. ¡°Do you know who did this to you?¡±


    .


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 Chapter 1243

    ?Chapter 1243:


    Gracie¡¯s body ached, her face swollen and bruised, but thankfully, she had only soft tissue injuries, no fractures.


    She shook her head weakly. ¡°I don¡¯t know, Ethan. I would rather die now¡­¡± She started crying.


    Ethan¡¯s gaze was cold. ¡°There are guards outside. Rest well. I have things to handle.¡±


    Gracie felt too ashamed to ask him to stay after what she had donest night. After Ethan left, her phone rang. Seeing the familiar number, she answered the call with trembling hands.


    ¡°Well, Gracie, are you selling the shares?¡± Jed Gordon¡¯s cold voice sent a chill through Gracie, nearly making her drop the phone.


    ¡°You were behind the matter?¡± she asked, suspecting he had orchestrated the attack.


    ¡°Does it matter? I¡¯m offering fifty billion for the shares. Will you sell?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Gracie replied.


    For roughly a month, Isabe had been employed at Brenna¡¯s store. On June 10th, the day sries were disbursed, her phone buzzed with a bank notification as she left work, confirming a deposit of 57,891.


    In Shirie, such earnings were notably substantial.


    Overjoyed, Isabe strode home with a buoyant gait, eager to mark the asion by purchasing some meat and seafood to cook.


    Passing by the supermarket, Isabe went in and bought plenty of groceries before going home. Upon reaching her doorstep, Isabe was about to open the door when she heard voices inside.


    It was Ruby¡¯s voice.


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    ¡°Mack, have younded a job yet?¡±


    Inside, Mack sprawled across the couch, engrossed in his phone, his expression souring at the question. ¡°No, Mom, leave me alone. I¡¯m convinced the Harper family has cklisted me across Shirie. Nopany in this city will hire me.¡±


    Ruby¡¯s frustration boiled over. ¡°Those Harpers! We¡¯re already scraping by, and they are still targeting us?¡±


    Still, she knew her anger was futile; the Harpers held power to squash them effortlessly.


    ¡°Why not try driving for a rideshare service? Your dad did it and brought in over 10,000 dors a month. It could ease our financial strain and improve our situation,¡± Ruby suggested.


    Mack¡¯s irritation red. ¡°Absolutely not. Isn¡¯t our situation humiliating enough? I used to be the vice president of the Barrett Group, rubbing elbows with Shirie¡¯s elite. I can¡¯t be a driver now. What if I run into someone I know? I would be aughingstock!¡±


    Ruby felt frustrated. For a week, she had watched Mackze around, either lounging in bed or on the couch, showing no effort to find work.


    With only Alec¡¯s ie supporting the family of four, funds were tight, and even in the scorching summer heat, they couldn¡¯t afford to run the air conditioner.<fn2218> Latest content published on fin?novel</fn2218>


    ¡°You dismiss every suggestion. Do you n to loaf around forever? I can¡¯t keep supporting you like this!¡± she eximed.


    Mack nced up from his screen. ¡°Isabe¡¯s working. She¡¯s pulling in over thirty thousand a month, maybe even about fifty thousand with bonuses. We can rely on her ie. She¡¯s my sister; she ought to support me.¡±


    Ruby, exasperated yet powerless, snapped, ¡°How can you say that? A grown man leaning on his sister? That¡¯s shameless!¡±


    .


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 Chapter 1244

    ?Chapter 1244:


    Mack yelled back, ¡°You think I like this? Jobs aren¡¯t just handed out! If you¡¯re fed up with me, maybe I should just kill myself.¡± Furious, Mack stormed toward the door.


    As he swung it open, he spotted Isabe standing there, armsden with grocery bags.


    His eyes greedily scanned her haul. ¡°Meat and seafood? Payday, huh?¡± Isabe quickly replied, ¡°No.¡±


    Mack scoffed, unconvinced, and bluntly said, ¡°Transfer me a thousand dors. I need to buy some cigarettes.¡±


    Though reluctant, Isabeplied, recalling how Mack had supported her when she had been jobless.


    ¡°Mack, driving for a rideshare isn¡¯t the worst option,¡± she said softly.<fn2921> ???? ????s? ???????s ?? findnovel</fn2921>


    ¡°I will not do it,¡± he shot back.


    Staring at her, he added, ¡°Speak to Brenna for me. Ask her to hook me up with a job¡ªany job. I¡¯ll take it.¡±


    Isabe felt like she was in a dilemma. ¡°I don¡¯t think I can persuade her to do that.¡±


    ¡°Just give it a shot,¡± Mack said, stepping into the elevator.


    After Isabe stepped inside, Ruby asked her in a hushed tone, ¡°How much did you get for your sry?¡±


    Isabe hesitated, then said, ¡°Twenty-three thousand.¡±


    Lately, Isabe hade to the conclusion that the Barrett family had no future. She resolved to move out shortly, seeking to break ties with them. To her, living on her own held far greater potential than remaining entangled with the Barretts.


    Ruby, shocked by Isabe¡¯s reply, questioned, ¡°Didn¡¯t you tell me Brenna pays you over thirty thousand a month?¡±


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    Isabe met Ruby¡¯s gaze, effortlessly spinning a lie, ¡°That¡¯s what I thought at first, butst month I had no sales and missed a few days, so my pay was lower than that.¡±


    Ruby, visibly irritated, said, ¡°Hand the money over now. We¡¯re barely scraping by for groceries, and your father¡¯s wages aren¡¯t enough.¡± With reluctance, Isabe sent Ruby twenty thousand.


    As they prepared dinner side by side in the kitchen, Ruby said, ¡°Is Brenna treating you well? Why don¡¯t you ask her about finding Mack a job? Even a job with a modest sry will do.¡±


    Isabe disliked this idea. She had worked hard to get a job from Brenna and did not want to risk losing it.


    ¡°Sure,¡± she agreed on the surface, having no intention to actually do it.


    Before long, Mack returned, clutching a pack of cigarettes and two bottles of liquor.


    Alec also arrived home soon, arms full of takeout containers. Grinning, he dered, ¡°I got my sry today. Let¡¯s celebrate.¡±


    Alec gave an approving nod. ¡°That is a fine amount. Together with my earnings, it¡¯s more than enough to keep our family of four afloat. If Macknds a job, we¡¯ll be set for a bright future.¡±


    The Barrett family savored their rare feast, the air filled with lighthearted chatter. Laughter danced around the table, but Isabe¡¯s mood was somber. She felt taken advantage of, as she earned the most in the family and had to support everyone. It was frustrating that one of the two grown men in the family earned so little while the other did not work at all. The more she thought about it, the more unfair it seemed. Dreams of independence flickered in her mind¡ªperhaps a cozy apartment of her own, far from the Barrett family.


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 Chapter 1245

    ?Chapter 1245:


    She believed the Barrett family remained under the Harper family¡¯s control, with no prospect of breaking free.<fnd274> Latest content published on ?ovelFind</fnd274>


    Escape seemed the only way forward, and had it not been for Brenna¡¯s request to keep an eye on Alec, she might have already left the family.


    Later, as Isabe approached the bathroom, she caught the faint murmur of Alec¡¯s voice from within. He was likely on a phone call.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll head there tomorrow,¡± Alec whispered, his words cloaked in caution. Unable to discern who was on the other end of the line or the purpose of Alec¡¯s ns, Isabe lingered, her curiosity piqued. After a while, Alec¡¯s voice came again.


    ¡°What if she sold it?¡±


    Momentster, Alec added, ¡°Understood, I¡¯ll get to the bottom of it.¡±


    Once the call concluded, Isabe quietly retreated to her room, acting as if she had just stepped out when Alec emerged from the bathroom.


    Seeing Isabe, Alec raised an eyebrow. ¡°What time is it? Why are you still awake? You¡¯ve got work tomorrow; you should sleep early.¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± Isabe said, her tone calm.


    After stepping out of the bathroom, Isabe didn¡¯t dare risk calling Brenna from her room. Instead, she opted to send her a message.


    The next morning, Isabe shadowed Alec, who, instead of heading to work, lingered at a caf¨¦ near the towering Mitchell Group building.


    Trying to stay out of sight, Isabe positioned herself at a restaurant across from the caf¨¦, her eyes fixed on Alec through the window.


    Alec made several calls as the morning wore on. By noon, Gracie appeared, joining him at the caf¨¦.


    Their meeting was brief, barely thirty minutes, before they both departed. Isabe then went into the caf¨¦, where a male server greeted her at the entrance, slipping a small recording device into her hand.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Isabe said warmly, pressing some money into his palm before leaving with the device.


    Back at the restaurant, Isabe dialed Brenna. ¡°I¡¯ve got their conversation recorded. How should I give the recording device to you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll send my secretary to pick it up,¡± Brenna replied.


    ¡°Ipensated the server with a thousand for assisting in obtaining the recording,¡± Isabe said.


    ¡°Got it,¡± Brenna replied, her tone calm.


    After the call, Brenna summoned Lorna to her office. ¡°Head to Pris Restaurant. Isabe will hand you something there.¡±


    She then handed Lorna a thick bundle of cash. ¡°Give this to her.¡±


    Lorna nced at the stack, no less than ten thousand dors, then took it without hesitation. ¡°I¡¯ll go there now.¡±


    In just over ten minutes, Brenna had the recording device in her hands.


    Listening to it, Brenna uncovered that Gracie was also working for Rosie. Suddenly, Brenna understood Gracie¡¯s recent strange behavior; Rosie had been behind this all along.


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 Chapter 1246

    ?Chapter 1246:


    More startling was the revtion that Gracie had sold Mitchell Group shares ten days ago.


    Brenna¡¯s mind raced. Did Ethan know about this?


    After a moment¡¯s reflection, Brenna took the elevator to the ny-ninth floor, the recording device tucked safely in her bag.


    Ethan had just stepped out of a meeting and was headed to the employee cafeteria for lunch.


    ¡°Care to join me for a bite?¡± Brenna approached him.


    ¡°Ethan!¡± Gracie also walked over, her smile radiant.


    Lately, with Elsa busy caring for her ailing mother, it had be difficult for Gracie to remain alone at Ethan¡¯s ce, so she had no choice but to return to her own apartment.


    Without anyone threatening her, she found her life much more peaceful now. With a tidy fortune nestled in her bank ount, she had settled her debts and secured enough to livefortably for the rest of her life.


    Today, she was in a good mood; her project was flourishing, and even the old animosity she harbored toward Brenna had softened slightly.


    Brenna caught Gracie¡¯s eye, her lips curving into a subtle smile. ¡°You look like you¡¯re in a good mood today. Has something delightfule your way?¡±


    Gracie felt a faint unease under her steady gaze, though she couldn¡¯t pinpoint why.


    ¡°My project is moving along splendidly, so I¡¯m in high spirits,¡± Gracie replied, then turned to Ethan. ¡°Shall we have lunch together?¡±


    Brenna realized that she couldn¡¯t give the recording device to Ethan now.


    There was no rush, though.


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    Ethan nced at Brenna, knowing that she had alsoe here to have lunch together.


    ¡°Sounds good,¡± he said, though he inwardly sighed at the prospect of a thirdpanion. Still, he couldn¡¯t refuse Gracie because that would look rude.


    Gracie, with a hint of challenge in her eyes, turned to Brenna. ¡°Miss Harper, you wouldn¡¯t mind if we all dine together, would you?¡±


    Isabe looked at the cash stuffed in the paper bag, her mind swirling with confusion. She couldn¡¯t fathom why Brenna was so resolute in blocking Mack¡¯s job prospects, even going so far as to enlist the Harper family to cklist him across Shirie.


    During her lunch break, she savored a quiet meal, cherishing these rare moments of calm.


    In the afternoon, she took leave from work, determined to dig into the root of Brenna¡¯s animosity toward Mack¡ªa secret she suspected only Joann might know.


    Having been part of the Barrett family for just a year, Isabe wasn¡¯t particrly close to Joann. Yet, she had noticed Brenna¡¯s warmth toward Joann contrasted sharply with her indifference to the rest of the Barrett family, hinting at a deeper story.


    After lunch, Isabe stopped by a store to pick up some fruits and pastries tailored to an elderly person¡¯s taste.


    She then hailed a taxi to the nursing home. From the ten thousand Brenna had given her, she set aside two thousand to offer Joann.


    Arriving at the nursing home in the afternoon, she found Joann chatting merrily with fellow residents beneath a shady tree. ¡°Grandma!¡± Isabe called out with a bright smile.


    .<fnd8e8> Th? link to the orig?n of this information r?sts ?n F?nd-Novel</fnd8e8>


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 Chapter 1247

    ?Chapter 1247:


    Joann, caught off guard by the visit, eyed Isabe curiously. Their bond had always been distant¡ªIsabe had only visited twice during her hospital stay, each time lingering briefly without so much as a proper greeting.


    Today, however, Isabe brought gifts and came to visit, so Joann warmly invited Isabe to her room.


    Joann¡¯s suite in the upscale nursing home was modest butfortable, with a well-appointed living area and a separate bedroom, perfectly suited for her to live.


    Isabe set her gifts on the table and eased into conversation, asking Joann about her life before Isabe joined the Barrett family.


    When the moment felt right, Isabe said, ¡°Joann, why does Brenna hate Mack so much?¡±


    Joann¡¯s expression hardened, and she let out an indignant huff. ¡°He¡¯s lucky she didn¡¯t kill him! That monster tried to rape her!¡±


    Isabe¡¯s jaw dropped. ¡°That can¡¯t be true. She¡¯s his sister!¡±


    ¡°Not by blood,¡± Joann rified, her voice trembling with anger. ¡°Brenna was sixteen at that time, working on her designs alone in her room. Mack entered her room with vile intentions. If I hadn¡¯t been home, he would have seeded.¡± Joann¡¯s fury red as she recounted the ordeal. ¡°I beat him up that day and gave Brenna money to run away from home. Otherwise, why do you think she left the family and stayed abroad for years?¡±


    A chill ran through Isabe, her fear mounting that she could face a simr fate. ¡°He¡¯s truly despicable! If I were Brenna, with powerful parents, I would have killed him already!¡±


    Joann sighed. Despite Mack being her grandson, she knew Brenna¡¯s grudge against him was justified, and the Harpers¡¯ actions seemed designed to crush the Barretts entirely.<fn5b56> Discover more novels at find(?)ovel</fn5b56>


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    ¡°Now I see why Brenna won¡¯t help Mack find a job. Letting him live is merciful enough,¡± Isabe said.


    She pulled out the two thousand dors and handed the money to Joann. ¡°Grandma, please take this to treat yourself to something nice.¡±


    Joann epted it without protest. Her savings were nearly gone, and she had lied to Brenna about her finances; the Barretts¡¯ mistreatment of Brenna had left her too ashamed to ept Brenna¡¯s money.


    Leaving the nursing home, Isabe felt her resolve to live somewhere else solidify. She didn¡¯t want to live with someone like Mack anymore. Though she could not afford to buy a house, renting was within her means. She decided to cut ties with the Barretts entirely¡ªher parents included, whom she now saw as terrible people. Her loyalty shifted firmly to Brenna. She would stand by those who treated her kindly and gave her money.


    Returning home early, Isabe found Mack sprawled on the couch, engrossed in a game, while Ruby bustled in the kitchen. Isabe¡¯s view of them had utterly transformed.


    ¡°Why are you home so early today?¡± Mack asked, ncing up.


    ¡°The shop was not busy today. On my way back, I noticed Imperial Bar is hiring servers. Interested? The sry starts at twenty thousand a month,¡± Isabe said.


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 Chapter 1248

    ?Chapter 1248:


    Mack scoffed, waving off the idea. ¡°No way. Imperial Bar is Ethan¡¯s, and they won¡¯t hire me. Besides, I was once the vice president at the Barrett Group. How could I work as a server now? Do not suggest such a menial job to me again.¡±


    Isabe rolled her eyes. ¡°So what¡¯s your n? You can¡¯t find a suitable job in Shirie. Ever thought of looking for a job in Plomond?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll think about it,¡± Mack muttered, eyes glued to his game, clearly brushing off the suggestion without a second thought.


    Mack shuffled out of the club, feeling drained, and stopped at a breakfast ce to grab a quick bite before heading home.


    By the time he arrived, Isabe and Alec had already gone to work, leaving only Ruby in the apartment. Ruby had spent the night tossing and turning, repeatedly trying to get in touch with Mack, but without sess. If Alec hadn¡¯t stepped in, she would have gone straight to the police.


    As soon as Mack walked in, the scent of alcohol on him hit Ruby. She rushed to him, her voiceced with concern. ¡°Where have you been all night?¡±


    ¡°I went out for drinks with an old friend and ended up crashing there,¡± Mack replied, exhaustion clear in his voice. He kept his bag clutched close, unwilling to give it to Ruby.


    He had nned to stop by the bank to deposit the cash, but fatigue had overtaken him. Sleep was the only thing on his mind now.


    Ruby said, ¡°Still, couldn¡¯t you have let me know? I was up all night, worried sick that something bad might have happened to you!¡±


    Mack¡¯s patience wore thin. ¡°I¡¯m not a kid. I can take care of myself. You¡¯re worrying over nothing. I¡¯m going to bed now.¡±


    He walked into his room, mmed the door behind him, and copsed into bed, asleep almost immediately.


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    Ruby let out a frustrated sigh and decided to call Alec and Isabe to let them know Mack was okay.


    At that moment, Isabe, who had been eavesdropping near the door, quickly made her way to the elevator to answer her phone.


    Earlier, when Mack hade back, Isabe had hidden around the corner by the stairs, keeping an eye on him. She had spotted the paper bag he carried but couldn¡¯t tell what was inside. He lookedpletely drained, as if he hadn¡¯t slept at all.


    Once she slipped out of the building, Isabe waited until she reached the subway to call Brenna and ry everything she had seen. After ending the call with Isabe, Brenna stepped out of her car.<fn0848> For more chapters visit Find¡ïNovel</fn0848>


    Down in the lobby, Alec was at his usual spot, but Brenna immediately noticed that he was in a sour mood today.


    Brenna¡¯s day was packed with work, so she didn¡¯t get the chance to talk with Ethan about the voice recorder. Instead, she handed it off to Lorna, making it clear that she wanted Ethan to receive it directly to avoid any leaks. Later that evening, Ernst came home earlier than usual, and the family gathered for dinner.


    Brenna passed a USB drive across the table to Ernst. ¡°This is the firewall program made for you.¡±


    ¡°You really are a genius,¡± Ernst replied, grinning. ¡°With this, our system is safe. Oh, and I bought Gracie¡¯s shares for you. I wanted it to be a surprise birthday present, but since you already found out, I might as well give them to you now. Just sign the transfer form, and they¡¯re yours.¡±


    Brenna smiled. ¡°I¡¯ll happily ept them.¡±


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 Chapter 1249

    ?Chapter 1249:


    Ernst looked at her with interest. ¡°Did you end up selling your firewall system to the police?¡±


    Brennaughed. ¡°I did. I just duplicated my firewall and had Joe take care of the instation for them. Got fifty million for it¡ªthough honestly, with how valuable it is, that price almost seems too low.¡±


    Shepard shot her an approving look. ¡°You made fifty million with a program you put together in no time. That¡¯s impressive.¡±


    Giselle thought for a moment, then said, ¡°Fifty million is nowhere near enough. There¡¯s no way my daughter¡¯s work should go for so little. Two hundred million would be more like it.¡±


    ¡°You are right, Mom,¡± Brenna responded. ¡°But I¡¯m not after more money. For me, this is about building connections¡ªhaving friends at the police department could be useful down the road.¡±


    Meanwhile, since Gracie had paid off her debts and had savings now, her spirits had been high. The deal with Waldo was also on track, moving smoothly into the hands-on phase. A solid paycheck each month made Gracie feel like her life was finally turning around.


    That afternoon, after leaving the office, she drove home. When she stepped out of the elevator, she was startled to see Rosie waiting right outside her apartment.


    Dressed in a ck dress, mask, sunsses, and a wide-brimmed hat, Rosie had gone to great lengths to hide her identity, but Gracie still recognized her right away.


    ¡°It¡¯s only been three months since everything blew up, yet you dare toe back now?¡± Gracie hurried to unlock the door and waved Rosie inside, not wanting anyone to see.


    To spot her in the hallway, Rosie seemed just as worried about being seen. Otherwise, she probably would have suggested meeting somewhere else.


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    ¡°I had toe back. My investments here are massive, and business is better than ever. Orders keeping in, and mypany¡¯s thriving. The police haven¡¯t hassled me at all. Why wouldn¡¯t I return?¡±


    Gracie set a ss of water on the table and took a seat across from Rosie. ¡°I still think the Harper family won¡¯t let things go so easily. You should be careful. What do you need from me this time?¡±


    Gracie couldn¡¯t help but keep her guard up; Rosie always seemed to have some scheme in mind.


    Rosie pulled a folder from her bag and slid it across the table. ¡°Take a look at this. It¡¯s a new drone project from Plieca. It¡¯s just getting started and still raising money. The Plieca royal family has put together a dream team to go global. The Mitchell Group¡¯s drones can¡¯tpete with what we¡¯re building. We already have ten-year contracts signed with more than thirty countries.¡±


    Gracie pored over the documents, seeing real promise in the project.


    ¡°So, why are you showing me this?¡± she asked.


    Rosie¡¯s voice was calm. ¡°We¡¯re still looking for new investors. If you¡¯re interested, you can consider investing in this. Haven¡¯t you ever wanted to see the Wilson Group back on top?¡±


    Rosie keenly understood the storm of emotions swirling within Gracie. Once, Gracie had been the daughter of the CEO of the Wilson Group, and she had basked in the glow of admiration, with suitors vying for her attention at every turn. But now, everything was different.


    ¡°Your talent shines brightly,¡± Rosie said with warmth. ¡°Ethan speaks highly of you, entrusting you with such a pivotal project, which you¡¯ve handled with remarkable finesse. It¡¯s a testament to your skill, and I¡¯m convinced you have an astute mind for business.¡±


    .<fn30ac> N?w ?ovel chapt?rs are published on FindN0vel</fn30ac>


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 Chapter 1250

    ?Chapter 1250:


    Gracie¡¯s gaze lingered on the project proposal, her thoughts a tangled dance of doubt and intrigue. The project waspelling, brimming with promise and potential.


    Rosie continued, her voice steady as she described the project¡¯s progress in Plieca, ¡°If you¡¯re skeptical, why not see it for yourself? You know my track record. I don¡¯t touch ventures doomed to fail. Since parting ways with the Harper family, every project I¡¯ve spearheaded has turned a profit. I¡¯ve even snapped up shares the Harper family didn¡¯t want to give me. Haven¡¯t you noticed my knack for sess?¡±


    Gracie nodded, her eyes scanning the proposal once more, absorbing every detail.


    Noticing Gracie¡¯s lingering hesitation, Rosie stayedposed, well aware that this was no smallmitment.


    ¡°I¡¯ll mull it over. Truth be told, I¡¯m eager to put my money to work. Letting it gather dust in a bank won¡¯t do. I want it to flourish,¡± Gracie said, a spark of enthusiasm in her voice.


    Yet, suspicion still gnawed at her. Rosie¡¯s motives seemed questionable, possibly a ploy to ensnare her. Gracie resolved to dig deeper beforemitting.


    Rosie, unruffled, gave a nod. ¡°Take your time. If you¡¯re still on the fence,e visit the site in Plieca. You¡¯re always wee. But don¡¯t dawdle too long; this project is a hotmodity, with investors moring for a piece. I¡¯m only offering you first dibs because of our friendship.¡±


    Gracie¡¯s trust in Rosie was thin. She saw her as a calcting figure, using others as stepping stones to her own ambitions.


    ¡°May I hold onto the proposal?¡± Gracie asked, hoping to share it with Ethan for a second opinion.


    ¡°Of course,¡± Rosie replied smoothly. ¡°Keep it; study it thoroughly.¡±


    Their conversation then drifted to lighter topics, and Gracie inquired about Rosie¡¯s recent endeavors¡­


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    Rosie¡¯s face lit up. ¡°Maxley has officially been named heir to the throne.¡±<fn7bbc> Get full chapters from find¡¤novel</fn7bbc>


    ¡°Congrattions!¡± Gracie eximed, her confidence in the project swelling. At that moment, she considered making the investment but decided to bide her time before making any decisions.


    After bidding Rosie farewell, Gracie mulled the matter over through the night. In the end, she chose to keep the proposal from Ethan, unwilling to raise any suspicions about her selling her shares.


    Having grown up immersed in her father¡¯s business world, Gracie was no stranger to project proposals. This one appeared solid, and she made up her mind to visit Plieca for a firsthand look.


    In the days that followed, Rosie awaited Gracie¡¯s response. Meanwhile, she arranged a meeting with Denis at an upscale restaurant to discuss new ventures.


    Denis was thriving, his fortunes soaring. With Judy and her brother Clive out of the picture, he had unchallenged control over their joint projects with the Wagner Group. No one could oppose him.


    Better still, Clive¡¯s once-loyal lieutenants were now behind bars, convicted of heinous crimes. Some faced execution, while others were locked away for decades. Denis had effortlessly doubled his wealth, eclipsing the Russell Corporation and cementing his ce as the third most powerful figure in Shirie.


    Rosie slid a project proposal across the table to Denis. ¡°The drone venture has tremendous potential,¡± she said with a confident smile.


    Denis scarcely nced at the proposal, his lips curling in disdain. ¡°Rosie, your schemesck finesse. It¡¯s no secret that your ventures in Vand are crumbling, bleeding money at an rming rate. Even yourpanies in Plieca are barely staying afloat. Do you think I don¡¯t know that?¡±


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 Chapter 1251

    ?Chapter 1251:


    He was far better informed than Gracie. The elite circles of Shirie were abuzz with talk of how the Harper Group and the Mitchell Group had been ruthlessly tightening their grip on Rosie¡¯spanies in recent months.


    Many of Rosie¡¯spanies were quietly on the market, a fact that hadn¡¯t escaped the notice of Shirie¡¯s power yers.


    Rosie¡¯s blood boiled. She had believed her near-financial ruin was a closely guarded secret, but Denis¡¯s words shattered that illusion.


    ¡°Be that as it may,¡± she said, her voice taut with defiance, ¡°I¡¯m destined to be Plieca¡¯s queen. My future is boundless. This is merely a temporary setback. Mypanies will rebound in no time.¡±


    Denis let out a coldugh. ¡°Do you think I¡¯m that gullible? The Harper Group and the Mitchell Group dominate globally. You won¡¯t w your way back. And this talk of bing the wife of Plieca¡¯s next King? You know as well as I do that capital calls the shots. If they want you in that position, you¡¯ll sit there. If not, you won¡¯t be able to do anything about it. Don¡¯t delude yourself.¡±


    With that, Denis rose to leave, his dismissal final.


    Rosie¡¯s fury erupted. In a sh of rage, she seized the project proposal and tore it to pieces.


    Brenna and Ellie were in high spirits today, buoyed by their recent sesses. Brenna¡¯s cutting-edge robotic prosthetics had garnered enthusiastic praise from clients, who were delighted with the results. So impressed were they that they eagerly rmended her products to their friends with disabilities, sparking a wave of new orders.


    Brenna¡¯spany was flourishing, and she felt on top of the world. Meanwhile, Ellie¡¯s fashion boutique had justunched a spacious new location, more than double the size of her first store. She had hired a team of people to scale up her business.


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    To mark their achievements, the two friends decided to celebrate together. They arrived at a restaurant and headed to the reserved private dining room, only to catch sight of Denis exiting a nearby room.


    Spotting Brenna, Denis offered a cautious smile. Since thest time he had learned of her capability, he didn¡¯t dare offend her.


    ¡°Miss Harper, it¡¯s been some time,¡± he said warmly.


    Brenna observed that, despite the recent loss of his wife, Denis didn¡¯t seem sad at all. He even looked more confident.


    ¡°I heard your business is booming, especially with those new partnerships you¡¯ve secured.¡± Standing in the hallway, Brenna engaged in light conversation with him.


    Denis, hands tucked in his pockets, thought her words were genuine, free of any underlying sarcasm. ¡°Things are going alright. The Mendoza assets have been transferred to me. I¡¯ll admit, my management skills aren¡¯t top-tier, so I¡¯ve hired some seasoned professionals to run thepanies. It¡¯s freed up my schedule quite a bit.¡±


    Ellie slipped into the private room to wait for Brenna.


    ¡°Congrattions! Your efforts are clearly paying off,¡± Brenna said.


    Denis seized the moment to propose a partnership. ¡°I hear you¡¯re working on a robotics project. I own a tech firm with strong global standing and top-notch capabilities. Any chance you would consider partnering with me, Miss Harper?¡±


    Brenna didn¡¯t dismiss the idea outright. With a nod, she said, ¡°Let¡¯s talk more when we kick off production.¡±<fna7be> Content originallyes from find?novel</fna7be>


    Encouraged by her openness, Denis stepped closer and lowered his voice, rying a recent conversation with Rosie to her.


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 Chapter 1252

    ?Chapter 1252:


    After that, he continued, ¡°Miss Harper, there¡¯s no bad blood between us. Let¡¯s leave the past behind. I truly hope we can coborate in the future.¡±


    With that, Denis left.


    Brenna lingered at the door for a moment, murmuring to herself, ¡°She actually had the nerve to return.¡±


    Inside their room, Ellie and her son, Patrick, were already browsing the menu.


    Patrick pointed excitedly at one dish. ¡°Mom, I want lobster!¡±


    Ellie promptly ordered the lobster.


    Flipping to the next page, Patrick spotted crabs. ¡°I want that, too!¡± he eximed. The waiter said, ¡°It¡¯s prime season for hairy crabs. They are fresh, vorful, and a guest favorite. tes usuallye back empty.¡±


    ¡°Great, let¡¯s get six¡ªtwo per person,¡± Ellie said before passing the menu to Brenna, who quickly ordered something as well.


    Meanwhile, in the room across the hall, Rosie stared at thevish spread of food before her, realizing it was far too much for her to finish. She scrolled through her phone contacts, hunting for two potential investors to help offset her recent financial setbacks.


    Her eyesnded on Jordy¡¯s and Tina¡¯s names.


    Tina had been distanttely, and Jordy¡¯s responses were equally curt. After a recent influx of capital, Jordy¡¯s business had skyrocketed, cementing his status among the elite. His family¡¯s venture capital expertise gave him ess to substantial funds.


    Rosie dialed Jordy, inviting him to join her, then called Tina, hoping to confront her in person about whether her recent losses had caused the rift between them. Within an hour, both arrived.


    L?t?st ch¦Ápt?rs in g??lnovels.??????


    Jordy had cast aside his former submissiveness, no longer seeking to please Rosie. He viewed himself as her equal now.


    Entering the room, he sat down without waiting for her to say anything. Rosie noted his growing boldness; he no longer regarded her as the one in charge.


    ¡°You¡¯re getting bold,¡± she said. Though annoyed by his attitude, Rosie held back sharp words, aware of her current situation.


    Jordy, adjusting his tie, knew full well her financial struggles. His family, active in venture capital, had deep insight into the operations of variouspanies. He said, ¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m thankful for your past support; it helped me reach this point. If you need help, just say so. I¡¯ll lend a hand for old times¡¯ sake.¡±


    His words felt patronizing to Rosie. ¡°What¡¯s with that superior tone? Don¡¯t forget I helped your family back then. You owe me more respect.¡±


    She knew his power had grown, and she should tread carefully, but her pride, built from years of being in control, made it hard for her to yield to someone she once outranked.


    Jordy lit a cigarette, blowing a smoke ring her way. ¡°Isn¡¯t my attitude decent enough? Miss Harper, you are aware of your situation. If it were anyone else facing failingpanies and bankruptcy, I wouldn¡¯t even bothering. My presence here is already a big gesture.¡±<fn3368> Original content can be found at Find1Novel</fn3368>


    Rosie seethed with anger, her eyes narrowing into slits as she shot Jordy a look that could have cut ss. She spoke with a voice edged in contempt. ¡°You sure had a lot to say back when you needed my help. Let¡¯s not pretend you¡¯d be where you are now without me.¡±


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 Chapter 1253

    ?Chapter 1253:


    Without a flicker of concern, Jordy lounged back, resting his foot on the empty chair beside her, sounding even more rxed than before. ¡°I won¡¯t deny it. You did help me once. But those days are gone. Now, I¡¯ve got more wealth than you ever had. Frankly, you mean nothing to me. I¡¯m only here for whatever scraps you¡¯re clutching in your hand.¡±


    ¡°Scraps?¡± Rosie was both shocked and enraged by his words. ¡°How dare you say something like that to me? The only reason you¡¯ve got anything at all is because of me! Forget it, your family was once nothing in Shirie. If I hadn¡¯t stepped in, you¡¯d have been crushed. Everything I handed you, I can snatch right back.¡±


    Jordy¡¯s lips twisted into a smirk, his voice dripping with scorn. ¡°Remind me¡ªwho exactly do you think you are? If the Harpers hadn¡¯t frozen your ounts and snatched away everyst resource you had, perhaps you would still matter in the business world. You managed to cross the one family nobody dares to offend. You¡¯re finished. Take my advice¡ªdump those failing assets now. Every minute you hang on to them, your losses just keep piling up.¡±


    He pulled a check from inside his jacket, let it rest on the table, and tapped it as if daring Rosie to refuse. ¡°Ten million for seventeenpanies. That¡¯s my offer. Satisfied?¡±


    He watched Rosie closely, amusement flickering in his eyes.<fn17c2> For more chapters visit find[?]ovel</fn17c2>


    Rosie¡¯s attentionnded on the check. She looked at the numbers, her anger building with every heartbeat. She snatched it up and, in one swift motion, ripped it to pieces, letting the scraps rain down on Jordy.


    ¡°I do want to let go of thepanies. They¡¯re in trouble right now, yes, but they have real promise. My tech team is gifted, and the deal includes everyone¡ªmy staff, our contracts, and the equipment. Yet, you toss ten million at me as if that¡¯s all they are worth? You think I¡¯m desperate?¡±


    Jordy gave a low, mockingugh. ¡°Save your speech. I know exactly what¡¯s happening. The brains behind your operation already walked out. Employees? You haven¡¯t paid them in months. No one works for free. Your production lines are shut down. Your engineers have vanished.¡±


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    ¡°Thend and equipment alone are worth more than your pathetic offer. You¡¯d better watch yourself, Jordy. Just because I¡¯m struggling now doesn¡¯t mean I¡¯ve lost every ally. Push me, and I might take your family down,¡± Rosie said.


    With an exaggerated shudder, Jordy pulled back his foot and leaned in closer, wearing a taunting grin. ¡°You really think you can threaten me? I¡¯m offering ten million for everything you have left. Take it or leave it¡ªI¡¯m not out of options. Brenna¡¯s robotics project is looking for backers. There¡¯s real potential there. Investing in that makes more sense than pouring money into your sinking ship.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s temper boiled over, barely kept in check by the smug way he looked at her. She nced at the bodyguards at the door and said to Jordy coldly, ¡°This is thest time I¡¯m asking you. Will you pay market price or not? I¡¯m in a tight spot, and I need someone on my side. Lend me a hand, and I¡¯ll back you up once I regain my power. Remember, I¡¯ll soon be the King¡¯s wife in Plieca, and everyone there will owe me respect.¡±


    A burst ofughter came from Jordy,ced with nothing but mockery. ¡°Royalty in some tiny nation isn¡¯t worth half as much as the mayor¡¯s partner here in Shirie. Bragging like that just makes you look silly! Plieca has what, just over eight million people? Shirie alone houses twenty million. You shouldn¡¯t even feel offended if I say you shine even less than our mayor¡¯s wife.¡±


    Without a word, Rosie motioned for the bodyguards. They responded at once. Two approached, and one of them grabbed Jordy, mming him down so hard that the sound echoed.


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 Chapter 1254

    ?Chapter 1254:


    Dazed from the blow, Jordy tried to gather his senses, his vision swimming. Rosie opened her eyes with obvious boredom and made her offer. ¡°Here¡¯s my deal. Two billion. If you¡¯re willing to buy, I¡¯ll let you go today.¡±


    Hatred burning in his eyes, Jordy locked his gaze on her. ¡°Think you can kill me here? Cameras are everywhere. There¡¯s no escaping them. Shirie¡¯s police still have your name on their list, Rosie. You¡¯d better think before you act.¡±


    Rosie paid no heed to the surveince. Without her needing to say anything, one of the bodyguards picked up a chair and urately smashed the surveince camera.


    Jordy¡¯s voice stayed steady. ¡°You have balls, but I¡¯m not giving in.¡±


    He didn¡¯t believe all the cameras outside were just for show.


    Jordy figured Rosie could only do so much. Destroying everyst camera was impossible.


    He told himself Rosie was just making empty threats, with no real intention to follow through.


    Tina, quiet for much of the exchange, finally stepped in as she watched Rosie¡¯s temper re. ¡°Let¡¯s try to talk this out, Rosie. There¡¯s no need to get violent. He¡¯s not as cold as you think. If you really need help, he won¡¯t turn his back on you. Maybe if you tried a softer approach, he¡¯d raise the offer¡­¡±


    Rosie shot a sidelong nce at Tina. ¡°Didn¡¯t I talk to him properly just now? You saw how he acted. He looked right through me like I wasn¡¯t even there.¡± As soon as she finished speaking, she signaled to the bodyguard.


    Without hesitation, the bodyguard began to strike Jordy. Jordy screamed in pain, but he held his ground.


    The pain didn¡¯t matter. He knew they wouldn¡¯t dare to go too far. But if he agreed to what Rosie wanted, his family¡¯s business would be destroyed by morning.


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    Atst, Rosie raised her hand, signaling the bodyguard to step back. She walked over to Jordy and made an offer she believed was reasonable.<fn7906> Th? link to the orig?n of this information r?sts ?n f?ndnovel</fn7906>


    ¡°So? What do you think? Two billion. That¡¯s not unreasonable, is it? Jordy, I¡¯m giving you a chance to work with me. Help me this once, and I¡¯ll bring you into profitable projects in Plieca. You¡¯ll be making money with me in the future.¡±


    Jordy chuckled. ¡°You sound desperate. Let me guess: everyone else offered less than I did?¡±


    ¡°Nonsense!¡± Rosie snapped, her eyes shing with irritation. Still, she had to admit that Jordy had guessed it right.


    Jordy pushed himself up slowly, wobbling as he stood. ¡°Do you know why they¡¯re offering so little?¡±


    Rosie stiffened. Deep down, she had her suspicions, but pride kept her from epting them. She asked, ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it obvious?¡± Jordy said, his voice hoarse but steady. ¡°You crossed Ethan and the Harper family. With both of them against you, yourpany lost every major order overnight. Your stocks aren¡¯t moving. You could sh prices to the floor, and still, no one would buy yourpanies. It¡¯s not because yourpanies are worthless. It¡¯s because you offended the wrong people. Trust me, Rosie. No one¡¯s going to offer more than I am. I¡¯m your best option.¡±


    Rosie gritted her teeth in frustration. His words hit the mark. She had reached out to former partners in secret, but their offers were pathetic. Some weren¡¯t even willing to cover the cost of thend, let alone thepany itself. Jordy¡¯s price was insulting, but it was still the best offer she had.


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 Chapter 1255

    ?Chapter 1255:


    ¡°I¡¯ll give you some advice. It might help you cut your losses,¡± Jordy adjusted his wrinkled clothes and fixed Rosie with a re. One day, he¡¯d make her pay for this.


    Rosie didn¡¯t flinch. No guilt showed on her face for what she¡¯d just put him through. Instead, she raised a brow and asked with smug arrogance, ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°Go to Brenna. Herpany is scouting for an electronics factory. They¡¯ve got a robotics project in the pipeline and need a production line. Your factories fit the bill. I don¡¯t know what you did to piss off both Ethan and the Harper family, but clearly, you burned the wrong bridges. Still, if you go to Brenna and ask sincerely, she might give you a decent price.¡±<fnc347> Checktest chapters at find?novel</fnc347>


    ¡°Are you ying with me? You know damn well I¡¯m at odds with her, and now you¡¯re suggesting something this absurd?¡± Rosie said angrily.


    ¡°This is your only option. Otherwise, you¡¯ll end up selling yourpanies for scraps.¡± Jordy wiped the blood from his mouth, opened the door, and walked out. He would remember this day, and he would get back at Rosie someday.


    Rosie stood frozen, her eyes locked on the untouched dishes spread across the table. They looked exquisite, but she had no appetite. Tina stood off to the side, looking at her silently.


    Rosie turned to her and asked, ¡°Can you get your brother to buy mypany at a high price?¡±


    ¡°My brother and I aren¡¯t close. I haven¡¯t seen him in months¡­¡± Tina looked down. Ever since she got involved in that scheme against Brenna, everything had started to unravel. Her father¡¯spanies were in decline. Profits had slipped. Loyal employees were walking away. Long-standing partnerships had ended. Her father hadshed out at her more times than she could count, warning her to keep her head down and never cross Brenna again.


    ¡°You are all useless!¡± Rosie snapped, her disappointment cutting through the room like a whip. ¡°None of you is as useful as Isabe. I¡¯ve given you everything, and yet not one of you can do anything right!¡±


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    At the mention of Isabe, something clicked in Rosie¡¯s mind. When things got tough, Isabe always had a n.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Isabe? What is she doing now?¡± Rosie asked.


    ¡°S-She¡¯s managing one of Brenna¡¯s top-performing retail outlets,¡± Tina replied hesitantly.


    Rosie stared at her, stunned. ¡°She actually went to work for Brenna? After everything we pulled against Brenna¡­ and Brenna still hired her?¡±


    Tina shook her head slowly. ¡°I don¡¯t know how it happened. I saw her while shopping a few days ago. She seemed to be doing well.¡±


    Rosie snorted, frustration boiling over. Lately, it felt like the world had turned against her.


    She said, ¡°Help mee up with something. I have over a dozenpanies that were thriving not long ago. I can¡¯t just give them away for next to nothing.¡±


    ¡°Honestly, only your factories still hold value, especially the two electronics ones. The designpanies? Not so much. The offices are leased, and theputer setups are outdated. There¡¯s nothing there anyone would pay good money for,¡± Tina said indifferently. She paused for a beat. ¡°Jordy¡¯s ten million was generous, all things considered. And you really shouldn¡¯t have had him beaten. Now, you might not even get that.¡±


    ¡°This is absurd! I refuse to believe the Harper family and Ethan have everyone under their thumb! I¡¯ll find a buyer who¡¯ll pay top dor!¡± Rosie¡¯s voice seethed with anger.


    Why should she be the one to suffer? All she did was give Brenna a minor scare ¡ª Brenna was fine now, unharmed.


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 Chapter 1256

    ?Chapter 1256:


    Why should the Harper family and Ethan strip her of everything over something so trivial?


    She couldn¡¯t wrap her head around it, nor would she ept it.


    Her frustration spilled out in a heated rant.


    Tina, who had been silently standing nearby, waited for Rosie¡¯s outburst to subside before speaking cautiously. ¡°There¡¯s another option, you know.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s eyes, dulled by despair, sparked with sudden hope as she turned to Tina. ¡°What is it?¡±


    Tina hesitated, avoiding Rosie¡¯s intense stare. After a brief pause, she said, ¡°The Harper family and Ethan are onlying after you because you tried to kill Brenna.¡±<fn3003> For more chapters visit </fn3003>


    Rosie sneered, unapologetic. ¡°So what? Yes, I wanted her dead. If it weren¡¯t for her, I would still be the only daughter of the Harpers. I wouldn¡¯t be staring at bankruptcy. If it weren¡¯t for her, Ethan would have married me. She stole everything from me, and I want her dead!¡±


    Tina let out a frustrated sigh. ¡°Look, I have an idea that could help you turn things around.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s temper cooled slightly, her curiosity piqued. ¡°Spit it out already; don¡¯t keep me waiting.¡±


    Tina, wary of provoking Rosie further, shared the n. She knew that with Rosie left with almost nothing, she was unpredictable.


    ¡°You could go to Brenna or the Harper family, own up to your mistakes, and beg for Brenna¡¯s forgiveness. They might consider letting you off.¡±


    Tina¡¯s tone was uncertain; she knew Rosie¡¯s pride would never allow her to beg for forgiveness.


    But it was the only path out of this mess. Predictably, Rosie erupted. ¡°You want me to apologize to them? Are you serious? They schemed against me and took my shares, and you expect me to apologize? Never!¡±


    Her re bore into Tina. ¡°Have you lost it? How could you suggest something so ridiculous? If you can¡¯te up with a decent n, don¡¯t waste my time with this nonsense.¡±


    Tina, feeling resigned, replied, ¡°I don¡¯t have any other ideas. Even my dad said if you don¡¯t apologize, you¡¯re done for. You won¡¯t make a dime in Vand or Plieca, and Maxley¡¯s campaign for the throne will take a hit too.¡±


    Rosie scoffed. ¡°You¡¯re giving them too much credit! Plieca¡¯s government isn¡¯t their yground. Stop trying to scare me. If you¡¯ve got nothing useful to say, shut up.¡±


    Tina watched Rosie¡¯s haughty demeanor and silently concluded she was beyond saving. Regret washed over her for evening to see Rosie today. Her father had warned her to steer clear of Rosie, predicting trouble, and urged her to cozy up to Brenna and the Harper family instead.


    Tina didn¡¯t want to do that, but she also didn¡¯t want to continue her friendship with Rosie anymore. Ever since she¡¯d befriended her, things had gone downhill.


    That evening, when Brenna returned home past nine, Julia greeted her, taking her bag and saying, ¡°Your mother dropped off some new clothes and a few exclusive bags today. She asked you to check them out¡ªif you don¡¯t like them, she¡¯ll return them tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Brenna¡¯s face lit up. ¡°I was just thinking it¡¯s time for a wardrobe change. Mom is so thoughtful.¡±


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 Chapter 1257

    ?Chapter 1257:


    She stepped into the elevator in a good mood, Julia trailing behind.


    ¡°Your mother dotes on you. It¡¯s not even the season change yet, and she¡¯s already picking out clothes for you. She said those bags were specially sourced from Valport¡ªyou can¡¯t even buy them with money,¡± Julia said.


    In her bedroom, Brenna found her wardrobe brimming with over a dozen luxury dresses, each worth hundreds of thousands, and seven cutting-edge designer bags, each valued in the millions.


    Since Brenna had returned to the Harper family a year ago, Giselle had showered her with clothes, dresses, and cosmetics. Her walk-in closet overflowed with bags alone.


    Shoes such as sneakers, casual pairs, and elegant leather heels lined her cabs to capacity. Her clothing collection, from skirts to pants, coats to tops, rivaled a boutique¡¯s variety.


    Ernst often gifted her items too, and though Dalton was frequently away, he would always return with new clothes, jewelry, cosmetics, or perfumes¡ªmore than Brenna could ever use.


    ¡°I love them,¡± Brenna said, beaming. She casually pulled a dress from the wardrobe, one she hadn¡¯t worn yet, and handed it to Julia. ¡°You can have this one.¡±


    Julia¡¯s face lit up with gratitude. ¡°Thank you, Miss Harper!¡±


    Brenna nced at the dress, feeling little attachment to it. Her closet was still crowded with unworn outfits.


    Now that a new season was rolling in, those old outfits felt more like clutter than treasures. She¡¯d be buying new clothes next year anyway, and the Harper family¡¯s lifestyle didn¡¯t allow her to wearst season¡¯s clothes.


    ¡°The ones I bought recently, still with tags on, you can have them. Tomorrow, clean up the wardrobe and deal with the out-of-season clothes,¡± Brenna said, her tone breezy as she looked over at Julia. She tried to keep things light so Julia wouldn¡¯t feel awkward about epting the clothes. ¡°If you don¡¯t want them, give them to your friends. No sense letting them go to waste, especially after how much I paid for them.¡±


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    Brenna had be more practical over time. Even though her circumstances had changed for the better, she didn¡¯t want to just throw away things that were useless to her.


    ¡°Thank you, Miss Harper. I¡¯ll take care of the matter first thing tomorrow,¡± replied Julia, pleased. Most of Brenna¡¯s hand-me-downs were barely touched; some even looked fresh from the boutique.


    Reselling any of these could fetch Julia a solid price. Some pieces, being rare finds, weren¡¯t even avable for purchase anymore.


    The following day, Brenna arrived at the office and spotted Alec with a long face. She decided to ignore his mood and stepped right into the elevator.


    Once in the office, she called Isabe.


    ¡°What¡¯s with Alec today? He looks unhappy,¡± Brenna said directly, not bothering with small talk.


    A softugh slipped from Isabe. ¡°Miss Harper, I think you¡¯ll like what I am about to say.¡±


    A hint of curiosity slipped into Brenna¡¯s voice. ¡°What is it?¡±


    Isabe wasted no time. ¡°Rosie stopped paying my dad ages ago. He used to get a little reward every time he passed her information. But since Rosie left Vand for Plieca three months ago, not a cent hase in for him. I have a feeling she¡¯s run out of money.¡±


    The news made Brenna smile. ¡°That sounds about right. All of herpanies in Vand are bankrupt, and now she¡¯s trying to sell them off. I even heard she hasn¡¯t paid over ten thousand employees for thest couple of months.¡±


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 Chapter 1258

    ?Chapter 1258:


    Isabe sounded pleased. ¡°Couldn¡¯t happen to a more deserving person. I¡¯m d I cut ties with her when I did, or I¡¯d be in serious trouble now. By the way, Miss Harper, I wanted to share something else with you. I¡¯ve seen Mack out at bars recently. He rented an apartment two months ago. Lately, he¡¯s been throwing money around¡ªsometimes twenty or thirty grand at a time, even giving some to my mom. I followed him a couple of times. He¡¯s working as an escort for wealthy women now. And I¡¯ve got photos of that. I¡¯ll send them over.¡±


    Brenna ended the call with a satisfied grin. Watching the Barrett family¡¯s troubles unfold brought her a quiet sense of victory.


    Just then, a gentle knock came at the door before Lorna stepped inside. ¡°Miss Harper, there¡¯s a visitor in the lobby. His name is Jordy Barton, and he says he¡¯s got important news for you.¡±


    Brenna paused, thinking for a moment. Jordy had kept his distance for half a year and had never dragged their past into idle gossip. She decided he was decent as a person.


    ¡°Let hime up,¡± Brenna replied, thinking Jordy might indeed have something important to discuss.


    Before long, Jordy entered Brenna¡¯s office, his charcoal suit sharp and businesslike.


    ¡°Ms. Harper.¡± He approached and offered a handshake to Brenna.


    Brenna barely nced at his hand. She made no move to shake it. Jordy withdrew his hand awkwardly.


    ¡°Did you hear? Rosie is desperate to sell herpanies to just about anyone now.¡±


    Brenna gave a nod. The fact that he used her surname, rather than her first name, did not go unnoticed. It was an improvement from how he used to act.


    ¡°I¡¯m aware. What¡¯s your take on the situation?¡± Brenna asked, her voice cold.


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    Lorna reappeared and set a cup of coffee down in front of Jordy. He wasted no time and ryed what had happened the previous night.


    After that, he said, ¡°I put ten million on the table, but she dismissed it as too low. Frankly, that¡¯s generouspared to what others offered her. This could be your chance to buy her electronics factories. You¡¯ve been looking for that kind of asset, haven¡¯t you? The factories she has are both equipped with new machinery.¡±


    He handed his phone to Brenna, showing her a headline trending online.


    With a tap, Brenna read through the article, which covered the chaos outside Rosie¡¯s home¡ªdozens of workers protesting for unpaid wages.


    Jordy continued, ¡°She¡¯s desperate for cash to settle the payroll. If she fails, the authorities will step in. Now might be your best shot to strike a deal.¡±


    ¡°You used to stand by her side, but now you¡¯re ready to turn on her for your own gain. That¡¯s cold,¡± Brenna raised an eyebrow.


    In response, Jordy tugged up his sleeve to show a patchwork of bruises along his forearm.


    ¡°See these marks? Last night, my conversation with her didn¡¯t go well, and she had me beaten. The moment I suggested ten million, she snapped and had her people hit me. After what happened, why would I still be on her side? Of course, I will turn my back on her now.¡±


    ¡°That looks painful,¡± Brenna remarked, though in her mind, she felt Jordy had brought it on himself.<fnd942> Newest update provided by find[?]ovel</fnd942>


    ¡°It¡¯s alright. I¡¯m focused on what I stand to gain from this. Ms. Harper, I know we¡¯ve shed before, but let¡¯s leave the past behind us. From now on, my only interest is business. If you need an investor for your robotics project, I¡¯m open to discussing terms,¡± Jordy said.


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 Chapter 1259

    ?Chapter 1259:


    Jordy had just left when Thiago strolled in.


    With a teasing grin, Thiago asked, ¡°So what did Jordy want this time? Trying to patch things up with you? I rememberst time you drove him away after beating him up.¡±


    Brenna shot him a look. ¡°Why do I feel like you¡¯re poking fun at me?¡±


    Thiago grinned. ¡°That¡¯s not true. Honestly, I¡¯m genuinely concerned he hade to stir things up. As soon as I found out he was here, I rushed over, afraid you¡¯d be taken advantage of.¡±


    Brenna decided not to take the bait. ¡°What do you actually want?¡±


    Dropping his yful tone, Thiago settled onto the sofa and got down to business. ¡°Rosie¡¯s got two electronics factories up for grabs. The production lines are practically brand new, and she¡¯s selling for only a tenth of the market price. We¡¯d be fools not to snatch them up. Rosie schemed against you quite a bit before. Let¡¯s take this chance to get back at her. If you¡¯re ufortable doing it, I¡¯ll do it for you.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll take care of it. Jordy brought up the idea, too. Honestly, you both make good points.¡± Brenna didn¡¯t hesitate as she passed Thiago a folder with thetest robot order.


    Thiago flipped through the documents, his eyes widening when he saw the details about a military order.


    ¡°Wait¡ªa military contract?¡± He studied the contract, tracing the specs for weaponized robots and the specialized gear listed in the blueprints.


    ¡°That¡¯s right, it¡¯s a ssified project with a one-year deadline. Once I secure those two factories, I¡¯ll start on the order immediately,¡± Brenna replied.


    Later that day, Brenna rang Rosie to set up a meeting for that evening. After the call ended, Rosie¡¯s expression fell.


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    ¡°Is she actually nning to take revenge on me?¡±


    She thought it over, then shook her head. ¡°No, that doesn¡¯t add up. If Brenna wanted payback, she wouldn¡¯t warn me first.¡±


    Even with all her doubts, Rosie made sure to cover every base and showed up to the meeting with some bodyguards in tow.


    They¡¯d set the meeting for seven o¡¯clock sharp, and Brenna arrived right on time.


    She paused outside the private dining room, spotting four burly bodyguards standing at attention by the door, looking ready for anything.


    A cold, amused smile touched her lips. Was Rosie nning on making this a showdown?


    Brenna wasn¡¯t careless, either. She had brought along two bodyguards of her own, who took up position right beside Rosie¡¯s men before Brenna strode into the room. Inside, two more bodyguards waited.


    ¡°Is this really necessary? You¡¯re this worried about your safety?¡± Brenna asked. Rosie wore a deep burgundy gown, the sheen of satin giving her an air of quiet royalty.


    She stayed seated, cool and detached. ¡°With my status, I can¡¯t be too careful. In a year or two, I¡¯ll be queen of Plieca. My securityes first, so I always travel with protection.¡±


    Jealousy flickered in her gaze as she looked at Brenna, especially when she noticed her dress, a fresh release from an international designer and worth at least three hundred grand.


    .


    .<fn5448> Th?s chapter is updated by F?nd-Novel</fn5448>


    .

 Chapter 1260

    ?Chapter 1260:


    Money sure seemed toe easily for Brenna.


    Rosie nced down at her own dress, the same one she¡¯d been recycling all summer. Finances were tight, and despite Maxley¡¯s wealth, he refused to give her any money.


    She had her eye on many new outfits, but she had no funds to purchase them.


    ¡°That¡¯s quite the status you¡¯ve got. Better stay cautious, then,¡± Brenna replied, her voice even as she settled into a chair without waiting for an invitation. The longer Rosie watched Brenna, the more convinced she became that Brenna was showing off, and it grated on her nerves.


    ¡°So, what exactly do you want from me? I¡¯m barely hanging on here. What will it take for you to let me off?¡± Rosie finally snapped, unable to keep her desperation hidden any longer.


    Brenna¡¯s lips curled into a slight, unreadable smile. ¡°Let you off? Give back what you got from the Harper family, and I¡¯ll consider it.¡± That answer sent Rosie over the edge.


    ¡°I¡¯m part of the Harper family, too! My dad was your uncle. Why do I have to return everything?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s expression didn¡¯t shift. ¡°If you don¡¯t want to return it, fine. Hold onto it, if you¡¯ve got the skill.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s anger boiled over. ¡°Don¡¯t think I won¡¯t kill you, Brenna!¡±


    Brenna met her threat with a calm shrug. ¡°It¡¯s not like you haven¡¯t tried before. Didn¡¯t work out, did it? You¡¯re just not cut out for it. Anyway, I called you here to talk business about those electronics factories. I¡¯m offering ten million to buy them.¡±


    ¡°You might as well just rob me!¡± Every part of Rosie seethed with resentment toward Brenna. Ten million? That was an insult¡ªthe machinery alone had been worth hundreds of millions not long ago, some of the most cutting-edge in the industry. How could she possibly sell it for such a lowball offer?<fn4aa6> For original chapters go to Find~Novel</fn4aa6>


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    After a pause, she said, ¡°Two billion. I won¡¯t go any lower.¡± She needed the money badly to pay off debts, cover payroll, and keep thepany afloat.


    ¡°Ten million. That¡¯s my final offer. If you refuse to sell, you can wait until someone buys them for scrap,¡± Brenna said as she stood to leave.


    Panicked, Rosie reached out and grabbed her arm to stop her. ¡°That¡¯s way too low! Can¡¯t we settle on 1.5 billion? The equipment¡¯s nearly brand new, and thend and buildings are included. You¡¯re already getting a bargain; don¡¯t push so¡­¡±


    Irritation colored Rosie¡¯s voice as she snapped, and her two bodyguards at the entrance immediately barred Brenna¡¯s way, their hands resting just above the pistols tucked into their belts.


    Rosie¡¯s sly nce shot toward Brenna. ¡°Left your gun at home this time, didn¡¯t you?¡± she taunted.


    No move was made by Brenna to reach for any sort of weapon, which only confirmed to Rosie that she¡¯d shown up unarmed.


    Rosie¡¯s confidence soared. She felt certain that her pair of bodyguards could handle Brenna with ease. There was no chance Brenna would dare to start anything with them standing by.


    A smug grin tugged at Rosie¡¯s lips as she sized Brenna up. ¡°You see these men? They aren¡¯t your average muscle. Both trained with Plieca¡¯s elite forces. Dealing with someone like you is easy for them. But if you cooperate, send the funds now; maybe I¡¯ll let them go easy on you.¡±


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 Chapter 1261

    ?Chapter 1261:


    A quietugh nearly escaped Brenna, reminded of thest time Rosie had tried to have her roughed up¡ªthose hired thugs had limped away, and Rosie herself had barely avoided a trip to jail.


    Apparently, that lesson hadn¡¯t stuck with Rosie.


    Silence from Brenna seemed to embolden Rosie further. Convinced she¡¯d won, Rosie strutted over to the table and tossed down a contract and a pen. ¡°Go on. Sign here. Two billion. I won¡¯t ept a cent less.¡±


    One look at the document told Brenna everything she needed to know: there were fifteenpany names on the contract, but the two electronics factories¡ªthe only ones she wanted¡ªwere missing.


    ¡°My offer stands at ten million for the electronics factories. I am not interested in the rest, and certainly won¡¯t pay two billion,¡± Brenna said, her tone cool and clear.


    Rosie rolled her eyes. ¡°I¡¯m giving you a deal, actually. In their prime, these businesses made hundreds of billions, far better than your small-time studios. Just sign, and we¡¯ll discuss those two factories afterward.¡±


    She jabbed at the spot where Brenna was meant to sign. ¡°Quit wasting time. Sign it already.¡±


    Any thought of Brenna¡¯s own security detail outside was brushed aside by Rosie. Four of her best bodyguards were outside, and she believed they were far more skilled than any of the Harper family¡¯s bodyguards. With that kind of muscle backing her, she felt invincible.


    Memories ofst year¡¯s failed ambush in the parking garage still lingered at the back of her mind. That time, her hired goons had been thrashed, and she had nearly ended up behind bars.


    But she just believed Brenna had been lucky and that her skilled colleague had protected her.


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    Now, with no one left to shield Brenna, Rosie was certain the upper hand was hers.


    Making Brenna crawl and beg was Rosie¡¯s goal; she also wanted to see her rival pay a high price for the electronics factories.


    There was no way she would let Brenna¡¯s attempt to grab both factories for only ten million seed.


    Settling into her chair, Rosie crossed one leg over the other casually. ¡°Either you sign right now, or things could get ugly fast. And you¡¯d better rethink your offer for my factoriese in too low, and I¡¯m walking away.¡±


    Brenna took her time examining the contract, flipping through the pages with a steady hand. Everything about the paperwork was standard except the outrageous price.


    Smugness radiated from Rosie. In her mind, Brenna hade here powerless and alone, so she had no choice but toply.


    ¡°My terms are more than fair. You put your name down, and by tomorrow, thosepanies will be yours,¡± Rosie said. ¡°I¡¯ll let the staff know there¡¯s a new boss and wash my hands of the whole mess about the unpaid sries. You¡¯re basically stealing fifteen sessfulpanies for pocket change.¡±


    After a silent read, Brenna tore the contract to pieces, letting the scraps fall.


    Rosie shot out of her seat, fury twisting her features. ¡°Are you insane, Brenna? How dare you do that? Now, I won¡¯t let you off!¡±


    Unbothered, Brenna nced toward the bodyguards. Then, she looked back at Rosie and said, ¡°Last chance. Ten million for both electronics nts¡ªbuildings,nd, equipment included. The rest is worthless to me.¡±


    .


    .<fn2cab> Find the newest release on F?ndNovel</fn2cab>


    .

 Chapter 1262

    ?Chapter 1262:


    ¡°You¡¯re only making it harder on yourself. I know you¡¯ve brought backup, but you¡¯re outnumbered. Four of my bodyguards are outside; yours won¡¯t even get near the door. You will sign, whether you like it or not. As for my factories, you need to pay ten billion for them, not a cent less. Defy me, and you won¡¯t walk out of here alive,¡± Rosie said.


    Every ounce of arrogance showed on Rosie¡¯s face as she shed a signal to her bodyguards.


    Both men closed in on Brenna, standing on either side.


    One leaned in, his voice low and menacing. ¡°Miss Harper, it¡¯s in your best interest to sign. It wouldn¡¯t take much for us to make you regret resisting.¡±


    Calm as ever, Brenna held Rosie¡¯s gaze. ¡°What if I refuse? I¡¯ll repeat myself¡ªten million for both factories. Are you selling or not?¡±


    Rosie¡¯s patience snapped. She eximed, ¡°Beat her up!¡±


    With a cool, deliberate motion, Brenna lifted her right arm to shield herself and looked at the two bodyguards coldly.


    A single look from her drained every bit of bravado from the bodyguards, who now seemed more afraid of her than they would be of their own boss. They couldn¡¯t even bring themselves to meet her gaze.


    No threats left Brenna¡¯s lips, and she held no weapon in sight. Still, something about her aura made the men want to bow down in submission.


    Fixing her eyes on Rosie, Brenna asked, ¡°Is this really how you want things to go? Are you sure you want them to beat me up?¡±


    Rosie faltered under the intensity of Brenna¡¯s stare but forced herself to sound calm. ¡°You¡¯re scared, aren¡¯t you? Just sign the contract. I¡¯ll let you leave, but only if you sign and talk to the Harper family and Ethan on my behalf¡ªconvince them to stop targeting me and help me make aeback,¡± she said, drawing out each word with venom. ¡°If you don¡¯t listen, don¡¯t me me if things get ugly. It¡¯d be a shame if that pretty face of yours got ruined.¡±


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    With that, she signaled the bodyguards, who took a step forward.


    A sly grin spread across Rosie¡¯s face. She clearly expected Brenna to crumble and beg.


    Unshaken, Brenna met her threats head-on. ¡°You¡¯ll want to remember this. Every move you make against me, I¡¯ll make sure you pay back double.¡±


    ¡°Big talk. So, you¡¯re refusing? Whatever happens next is on you,¡± Rosie said.


    As soon as she finished speaking, the bodyguards sprang into action.


    ¡°Ah¡ª¡±


    The bodyguards moved swiftly, but before they could even touch Brenna¡¯s clothes, cries of agony erupted from them.


    The snap of bone echoed through the room as Brenna locked one man¡¯s wrist and broke it with ruthless efficiency.


    In one swift motion, she delivered a brutal kick,unching him into a nearby wall where he hit with a sickening thud, then dropped to the floor, groaning and clutching his arm.


    Shaken by the sight, the other bodyguard froze. Panic flickered across his features.


    These bodyguards, rigorously trained in Plieca, were fearsome warriors who could handle several thugs at once. Still, they were unable to do anything to Brenna.


    Brenna was slender, yet the violence she had just unleashed seemed almost unreal.<fnec7a> Checktest chapters at find?novel</fnec7a>


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 Chapter 1263

    ?Chapter 1263:


    Reality set in as the bodyguard watched his partner writhing. There was no mistaking it¡ªBrenna¡¯s fighting skills were frighteningly real. The urge to defend his partner overpowered his hesitation. ¡°You think you¡¯re tough? I¡¯ll teach you a lesson!¡±


    Rushing at Brenna with renewed anger, the bodyguard barely made it two steps before Brenna dodged him with effortless grace. She caught his wrist, twisted it, and brought him to his knees with a single move. His cry of pain rang out, but he stubbornly tried to recover and aimed a desperate kick her way. A quick turn allowed Brenna to slip past his attack, and then she brought her leg down like a hammer on his shin.


    Her strike broke bone with ease, and his leg buckled at a grotesque angle.


    Both bodyguardsy immobile on the floor now.


    Rosie stood frozen, unable to process what she¡¯d just seen. ¡°W-When did you be this strong?¡±


    She¡¯d trusted her bodyguards to subdue Brenna with little effort, yet both nowy defeated.


    Calmly, Brenna plucked a tissue from a box nearby and wiped her hands, her voiceposed. ¡°Did you really think I came here without being prepared for something like this?¡±


    Rosie¡¯s courage crumbled; panic widened her eyes as she stepped behind the nearest chair. ¡°Just stay back. Let¡¯s talk about this peacefully, please.¡±


    ¡°You already forgot my warning just now?¡± Brenna didn¡¯t move, simply watching to see what Rosie would attempt next.


    Hoping for a distraction, Rosie skirted around the table and shoved the door open, shouting, ¡°Get in here and deal with her, now!¡±


    Yet right outside, the rest of Rosie¡¯s bodyguards were already sprawled out on the floor, writhing in pain.


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    In stark contrast, Brenna¡¯s own bodyguards stood with arms folded, watching Rosie in stony silence.


    Rosie¡¯s disbelief broke through in a shaky whisper. ¡°No way. This can¡¯t be happening.¡±


    ¡°Go ahead,¡± Brenna told her team, her tone calm.


    Her bodyguards strode into the room as Rosie stumbled backward in fear.


    Desperation made Rosie grab for Brenna¡¯s arm. ¡°Please, I made a mistake. Don¡¯t let them hurt me. I¡¯ll agree to anything.¡±


    Brenna arched an eyebrow. ¡°Is that so? I¡¯ll give you ten million for both electronics factories. Do we have a deal?¡±


    Cornered, Rosie said, ¡°Couldn¡¯t you raise your offer? It¡¯s too low. Each factory costs me more than a billion, I can¡¯t take a loss that steep.¡±


    ¡°So, you¡¯re refusing?¡± Brenna asked.


    Rosie shook her head frantically. ¡°I can¡¯t. I really can¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Then do it,¡± Brenna said to her bodyguards.


    In an instant, her bodyguards seized Rosie. One wrenched her arm behind her back, and the other delivered several hard ps to her face.


    Just a handful of blows left Rosie¡¯s cheek puffy, with a smear of blood at her lips.


    ¡°You¡¯ve got a few days to reconsider. Think carefully,¡± Brenna said, stepping over the battered men as she exited the room.<fn3f66> For original chapters go to F?ndNovel</fn3f66>


    ¡°Ah!¡± Rosie screamed in sheer frustration. She red at the bodyguards sprawled on the floor with zing eyes. ¡°What good are you if you can¡¯t even handle a woman? Get out!¡±


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 Chapter 1264

    ?Chapter 1264:


    The two bodyguards scrambled to their feet, stumbling over each other in their rush to escape.


    The more Rosie thought about it, the more her anger festered. She had reached out to so many potential buyers for herpanies, yet not one had offered a fair price. It was as if they were all in on making things difficult for her, tossing her offers that were nothing short of insulting.


    She clenched her teeth in rage. She knew exactly who was behind this: the Harper family and Ethan.


    Those people were nothing short of vile.


    If she had money and power now, she would crush them all without mercy. Unfortunately, she had no strength to fight anyone. She found herself forced to tter them and beg for scraps of favor.


    She felt this was all so unfair. She had poured billions into the equipment, yet Brenna dared to think she could take the factories off her hands for a mere ten million. She would never sell them to her. Not for that price.


    Her fingers tightened around her phone as she scrolled through her contacts. She had already reached out to everyone she could think of, yet those who had once fawned over her now made a sport of avoiding her.


    She went through the list again. Sadly, there was no one left who could buy herpanies.


    Atst, her gaze settled on Tina¡¯s name.<fn48bc> Content originallyes from find(?)ovel</fn48bc>


    Tina¡¯s brother, Jayceon, was in the midst of aggressively expanding his business. Perhaps he would be interested in buying.


    Rosie had known him since she was young. Their rtionship had always been cordial enough.


    But Jayceon and Ethan were close friends. With thetter gunning for her, there was every chance Jayceon would think twice before agreeing to make a deal with her.


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    The thought of hearing a blunt rejection over the phone made Rosie uneasy. It would be better to visit Jayceon¡¯spany and speak to him in person.


    With her mind made up, she tried calling Tina again.


    But Tina didn¡¯t pick up.


    ¡°Argh! Even Tina dares to ignore me! Everyone¡¯s taking advantage of me. Just wait. When I rise again, those who want to tter me will have to kneel and beg!¡± Rosie muttered.


    How could Tina treat her this way? There was a time when Tina had gone out of her way to please her. She had brought her food, gifted her clothes, bags, and even perfume.


    But now, she wouldn¡¯t even answer her call!


    She was still the wife of Plieca¡¯s prince. Losing some money didn¡¯t change that. But the moment things turned sour, Tina began to keep her distance from her. And Vivian¡­ She hadn¡¯t reached out to her, either.


    Rosie had called Tina several times over the past few days, but Tina¡¯s phone was either switched off or left unanswered.


    Finally giving up on contacting Tina, Rosie decided to go straight to Jayceon¡¯spany.


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 Chapter 1265

    ?Chapter 1265:


    Jayceon was now a prominent figure in Shlrie, so his schedule was packed from dawn to dusk. To see him, one needed an appointment.


    When Rosie stepped into the Russell Corporation, she was stopped almost immediately by the receptionist.


    Seeing that she wasn¡¯t wearing a visitor¡¯s badge and looked unfamiliar, the receptionist offered a polite smile and said, ¡°Miss, who are you here to see?¡±


    Rosie, already in a foul mood, shot the receptionist a sharp re. But she knew that if she wanted to see Jayceon, she had to suppress her anger.


    ¡°I¡¯m here to see Mr. Russell. We¡¯re good friends. I can go up by myself. No need to trouble you.¡±<fnb286> Follow current nov?ls on find¡¤novel</fnb286>


    The receptionist stepped in front of Rosie, blocking her path to the elevator.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Miss. Without an appointment, you can¡¯t see Mr. Russell.¡±


    ¡°Do you even know who I am to speak to me like that?¡± Rosie snapped.


    The receptionist nearlyughed. The woman was clearly dressed to impress, and she could guess what this was about. She believed Rosie was probably just another admirer pursuing Jayceon.


    But Jayceon was already married.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but if you want to see Mr. Russell, you¡¯ll need to make an appointment in advance.¡± The receptionist¡¯s voice stayed calm as she continued to block Rosie from heading upstairs.


    A mere receptionist, daring to treat her this way. Rosie¡¯s fingers twitched with the urge to p her.


    ¡°I¡¯m the wife of Prince Maxley of Plieca. It should be an honor for Mr. Russell to meet me. Do I really need an appointment? I¡¯m here with a huge order. If you dy it, can you take responsibility for the loss?¡± Rosie said.


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    The receptionist¡¯s expression shifted ever so slightly. She gave Rosie another careful look, then replied in the same polite tone, ¡°Please wait a moment. I¡¯ll check with the secretary¡¯s office and have them ask Mr. Russell.¡±


    Rosie felt slightly better but was still in a foul mood. ¡°Hurry up. My time is precious, and you can¡¯t afford to waste it.¡±


    The receptionist gave a brief nod, returned to her desk, and picked up the phone. Five minutester, she walked back to Rosie. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, ma¡¯am. Mr. Russell said he won¡¯t be seeing you.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Impossible! Did you even tell him who I am? Mr. Russell and I have an excellent rtionship. There¡¯s no way he¡¯d refuse to see me. Call again and tell him I have something important to discuss.¡±


    The receptionist believed Rosie was being unreasonable. Wife of Prince Maxley of Plieca? She had never even heard of the country.


    Without another word, she turned away and went back to her desk.


    Rosie¡¯s gaze flicked to the security guards posted at the entrance. With them watching, she didn¡¯t dare make a scene. So, she settled onto the sofa in the lobby. Jayceon had to leave work eventually. She would wait for him here.


    Jayceon had been swamped with work, his meetings dragging on until seven in the evening.


    Exhausted, he massaged his temples and asked his secretary, ¡°Do I have any more appointments tonight?¡±


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 Chapter 1266

    ?Chapter 1266:


    ¡°Yes, you have a business dinner in thirty minutes. We should leave now,¡± the secretary replied.


    Jayceon gave a tired nod and followed his secretary downstairs.


    Having been caught up in several hours of meetings, he hadpletely forgotten about Rosie waiting for him. As the elevator doors opened, he spotted her slumped on a lobby sofa, her gaze fixed on him.


    He immediately remembered the matter, but by then, it was toote to escape her.


    Rosie rushed over, her face etched with desperation. ¡°Jayceon, you¡¯re finally here! They wouldn¡¯t let me in, said you didn¡¯t want to see me.¡±


    Jayceon let out a heavy sigh, his expression guarded. He had already promised Ethan he wouldn¡¯t help Rosie and had even coborated with him to sideline herpanies.


    Her approaching him now felt almost absurd.


    ¡°I¡¯ve got a business dinner. Whatever it is, we¡¯ll talk tomorrow,¡± he said curtly.


    Rosie¡¯s voice trembled with hurt. ¡°Jayceon, you¡¯ve changed. We were close once. Why are you shutting me out now? You won¡¯t even meet with me.¡± Her distress was palpable¡ªshe had no one else left to turn to.


    In this moment of istion, abandoned by everyone, she felt the world had turned its back on her.


    But Jayceon¡¯s face remained impassive, unmoved by her plea.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry; I have to go,¡± he said, his tone final.


    Rosie grabbed his sleeve, her voice breaking. ¡°Please, Jayceon, don¡¯t walk away. You¡¯re myst hope. Just listen to me, I¡¯m begging you¡­¡±


    Unfazed, Jayceon stood firm. ¡°I¡¯m not interested in buying yourpanies. Please leave, and don¡¯te back.¡±


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    His secretary stepped in, gently but firmly pulling Rosie away.


    Rosie watched as Jayceon¡¯s cold figure receded, her anger ring.


    Brenna had ruthlessly cut off all her paths forward, pushing her to the brink of despair.


    Tears streaming down her face, Rosie drove home. At her residential area¡¯s entrance, a mob of unpaid employees confronted her, some sprawled on the ground, others waving banners, and a few shouting through megaphones.


    Security barred them from entering, leaving them to protest at the gate. Spotting the crowd from afar, Rosie tried to slip in through another entrance, only to find it blocked by people as well. With no other option, she decided to leave.


    Someone noticed her car and yelled, ¡°There¡¯s Rosie!¡±


    ¡°Pay us!¡±


    ¡°Pay us!¡±


    The chants grew louder, and some employees chased her vehicle.


    Just then, a loud bang echoed as a rock smashed the car¡¯s rear windshield.


    Terrified, Rosie was grateful they didn¡¯t know about her other properties in Shirie.


    She quickly called Rachael, asking her toe over.


    Soon after Rosie reached her seldom-used house, Rachael arrived.


    Seeing Rosie¡¯s red-rimmed eyes and distraught expression, Rachael felt for her.<fn4a79> Find the newest release on find¡¤novel</fn4a79>


    ¡°Miss Harper, things aren¡¯t going well for you?¡±


    .


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 Chapter 1267

    ?Chapter 1267:


    Rosie copsed onto the sofa, consumed by hopelessness.


    Sobbing, she eximed, ¡°People are all horrible! They are ganging up on me, bullying me!¡±


    Rachael, carrying groceries from another property, tried tofort her, saying, ¡°Miss Harper, have you considered reaching out to Mr. Nicolson to see if he would buy yourpanies?¡±


    Rosie shook her head. ¡°I already asked. He¡¯s not interested in expanding in Vand.¡±


    Rachael sighed. ¡°Then selling at a loss might be the only option.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s tear-streaked face twisted with anguish. ¡°Why do they hate me so much? Brenna stole what was mine. Why can¡¯t I make her pay? Who does she think she is? Why does everyone protect her?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, Miss Harper, I promised your parents I would look after you, but I can¡¯t fix this,¡± Rachael said, guilt weighing on her. She then took the groceries to the kitchen. It waste, and she needed to cook something for Rosie and clean the dusty, neglected house.


    For several days, Rosie stayed indoors, her spirits sinking lower.


    Rachael moved her belongings from the other house and offeredfort whenever she could, but Rosie¡¯s spirits remained low.


    On a weekend, Rachael received a package containing a bottle of liquid. After getting ready, she left the house and arrived at the Harper family mansion just before eleven in the morning. Even on weekends, the estate buzzed with activity, luxury carsing and going. Rachael waited at the gate for over half an hour, nearly until noon, but Brenna still hadn¡¯t appeared.


    Brenna stirred awake naturally and checked her phone; it was already 11:40 AM. She stretched slowly, climbed out of bed, and went through her morning ritual of freshening up and slipping intofortable clothes. In the cozy dining room downstairs, only Giselle was present.


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    ¡°Mrs. Harper, Miss Harper will be having lunch at home today. We¡¯ve prepared several of her favorite dishes,¡± the chef announced.


    Giselle nodded approvingly. ¡°How soon will lunch be ready? Brenna will be down any moment.¡±


    ¡°Lunch will be served right at noon,¡± the chef replied respectfully.


    Brenna stepped into the dining room, inhaling deeply. ¡°Something smells amazing! What¡¯s on the menu today?¡±


    Giselle motioned for her to take a seat. ¡°It¡¯s been a while since you¡¯ve eaten at home. It¡¯s nice to have you here. We¡¯ve made all your favorites.¡±


    Just then, Darrell, the security guard, approached with a grave expression. ¡°Mrs. Harper, Miss Harper, we¡¯ve detained a suspicious person near the gate. They¡¯ve been lingering there for a long time, and we found sulfuric acid in her bag.¡± Giselle¡¯s eyes sharpened with concern. ¡°Who is it?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s Rachael, the former maid. She had the acid with her, but she¡¯s denying everything,¡± Darrell answered.


    ¡°Bring her here,¡± Giselle said icily. ¡°We treated her well when she worked here¡ªgenerous pay, bonuses, even letting her take things we no longer needed. And now, she¡¯s here with acid for revenge? I want answers.¡±


    Darrell nodded and left, returning shortly with Rachael.


    Giselle and Brenna moved to the living room as two guards brought Rachael in, her wrists secured behind her back.


    .<fnf69c> Newest update provided by FindN()vel</fnf69c>


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 Chapter 1268

    ?Chapter 1268:


    Rachael¡¯s face was twisted with rage as she hurled insults.


    ¡°Let me go, you monsters! I hate you all! I¡¯ll ruin your perfect faces¡ªyou¡¯ll never be able to show yourselves in public again!¡±


    Her outburst was deliberate, meant to divert attention from Rosie.


    She had carefully concealed herself among the foliage, biding her time for the perfect opportunity to strike when either Brenna or Giselle appeared. Her intention was to hurl¡­


    Acid at the first Harper family member who came into view. She had thought her hiding spot was foolproof, but the Harper family¡¯s security had proven too sharp.


    Having served the Harpers for years, she knew their guards were skilled, so she had been very careful, yet she had still been caught.


    Humiliation and fury burned within her.


    ¡°Who put you up to this?¡± Brenna asked, her voice cold.


    Giselle, studying Rachael¡¯s unhinged demeanor, frowned. ¡°What have we ever done to you to deserve this?¡±


    Rachael scoffed bitterly, ¡°You think you¡¯re so kind to me? You look down on us servants, barking orders like we¡¯re nothing! Just because you¡¯re rich doesn¡¯t make you better than me. I just can¡¯t stand your arrogance!¡±


    Brenna and Giselle exchanged a nce, sensing her words didn¡¯t add up.


    The guards tightened their grip, making Rachael wince in pain.


    ¡°Are you trying to kill me?¡± she shrieked. ¡°I¡¯m not scared of you! Kill me, and you¡¯ll end up in prison for life!¡±


    ¡°Behave yourself and answer Mrs. Harper and Miss Harper properly,¡± one guard barked, kicking her hard enough to make her grimace.


    g?ln¦Ò¦Í????s is where dreams unfold


    Another pinched her shoulder, sending a jolt of pain through her. Sweating and defiant, Rachael clenched her jaw, refusing to tell the truth and continuing her tirade against the Harpers.


    ¡°Let me go, you heartless bullies! You¡¯ll pay for treating poor people like me this way!¡±


    Brenna remained unruffled, waiting for Rachael¡¯s outburst to end before saying, ¡°From what I¡¯ve heard, you¡¯re working for Rosie now. She went bankrupt recently¡ªsuch a pity. Did she send you here to get revenge on us?¡±


    Rachael¡¯s expression faltered, but she quickly spat back, ring at Brenna. ¡°NO! Miss Rosie Harper has nothing to do with this. I just hate you. You¡¯re vicious, tormenting Miss Rosie Harper until she lost everything¡ªher business, her money, with workers turning against her! How can you be so cruel? All of you will face karma. I may have failed today, but next time, I¡¯ll get you!¡±


    Brenna smirked faintly. ¡°So, it was Rosie. With what you¡¯ve just confessed, not only will she go bankrupt, but she¡¯ll also end up in jail.¡± She then calmly dialed the police.<fn02cf> Follow current nov?ls on Find1Novel</fn02cf>


    Rachael¡¯s face paled, regret flooding her. ¡°I told you, Miss Rosie Harper didn¡¯t send me to do this! This was my idea! You can¡¯t pin this on her!¡±


    Brenna tilted her phone slightly. ¡°That¡¯s not up to you to decide.¡±


    She spoke calmly to the police, detailing the incident.


    .


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 Chapter 1269

    ?Chapter 1269:


    Rachael¡¯s heart sank with regret. If she had known she would be caught so easily, she never would havee. Perhaps she should have ambushed Brenna at herpany, near her car. Maybe that would have worked.


    ¡°Please, I¡¯m begging you¡ªdon¡¯t call the police. If I¡¯m arrested, who will take care of Ms. Rosie Harper? She¡¯s already suffered enough. Haven¡¯t you done enough to ruin her?¡± Rachael dropped to her knees, eyes brimming with tears. It wasn¡¯t her own arrest she feared; it was leaving Rosie without anyone to protect her.


    Rosie had lost her parents the day she was born. She had never stopped being a pitiful soul.


    ¡°Please,¡± Rachael said, locking eyes with Brenna.


    But Brenna had already ended the call.


    ¡°The police will be here in five minutes. If you have anything to say, you can tell them,¡± Brenna said, her voice cold and final.<fn434b> ???s ??????? ?s ?????? ?? FindN()vel</fn434b>


    Desperation twisted Rachael¡¯s face. ¡°Ms. Rosie Harper has been through hell. She¡¯s lost everything. She even tried to sell thepanies to pay her debts but couldn¡¯t get a decent offer. She has begged anyone who might help. You all used to be her family¡ªare you really going to push her to desperation?¡±


    Giselle¡¯s eyes hardened. ¡°Do you truly not know why she¡¯s like this? She has conspired with outsiders again and again to harm us. Where was yourpassion then? Now that she has failed, you bring this up? Toote!¡±


    ¡°Mrs. Harper, you watched her grow up. Can you really be this heartless to her?¡± Rachael¡¯s voice shook with herst desperate move.


    Giselle¡¯s tone went colder. ¡°If it weren¡¯t for that, do you think I¡¯d have tolerated her endless attacks on the Harper Group, her attempts to kill my daughter, and still kept the police away? Now, she even wants to throw acid at us. I won¡¯t let her get away with this!¡±


    Rachael turned sharply to Brenna. ¡°Do you even know why Ms. Rosie Harper targeted you?¡±


    Brenna stayed silent and turned away, unwilling to engage with Rachael. Rachael knew this was herst chance. She spoke from her heart, hoping to sway Brenna.


    ¡°Before you came back, Ms. Rosie Harper was this family¡¯s treasure. Everyone adored her, even Mr. Mitchell, and they were nning to get engaged. Then, you suddenly returned and took everything from her. That¡¯s why she hates you. You were in the wrong first. Everything you have now should¡¯ve been hers. If you realize your mistake, ask Mr. Shepard Harper and Mr. Ernst Harper to stop going after her.¡±


    Her voice then sharpened into a warning. ¡°If you don¡¯t, don¡¯t me anyone when she retaliates. You¡¯re bringing it on yourself.¡±


    ¡°So all of this is my fault? I¡¯m a Harper. Why shouldn¡¯t Ie home?¡± Brenna believed Rachael hadpletely lost it.


    ¡°Why did youe back?¡± Rachael¡¯s voice broke into a scream. ¡°You were fine with the Barretts. You should¡¯ve stayed there! Without you, Ms. Rosie Harper wouldn¡¯t be like this. It¡¯s all your fault. You deserve to die!¡±


    The moment she felt the guards¡¯ grip loosen, Rachael lunged at Brenna, wanting to bite her.


    But as soon as she moved, the guards pinned her down firmly.


    Giselle found Rachael¡¯s reasoningughable. ¡°My own child can¡¯t return home? What a joke.¡±


    The police arrived within minutes. After reviewing the surveince footage, they took Rachael away.


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 Chapter 1270

    Chapter 1270:


    At home, Rosie waited for lunch, expecting Rachael toe back. But soon, it was past one, and Rachael still hadn¡¯t returned.


    Rosie called her but got no answer.


    Not daring to order takeout, she dug into the fridge, reheating yesterday¡¯s breakfast in the oven and making do with a simple meal.


    In the afternoon, she went back to listing her properties online, pricing them slightly below market value.


    She needed money urgently but refused to take too big a loss.


    Her properties and shops sat in prime locations¡ªeach worth over ten million. Together, they could bring in more than a hundred million.


    Her mind was made up. Vand was no longer home. Once she had the money, she would leave for Plieca and never return.


    What infuriated her was that herpanies could only be sold at a meager price, which she found hard to ept.


    Even if herpanies were worthless, thend alone should be worth far more than ten million.


    Just then, a deafening crash snapped her from her thoughts.


    ss shattered as a brick broke through andnded on the floor.


    Rosie jumped in fright. She¡¯d only been here a day. Had someone already found her?


    Were they the Harpers¡¯ men? Or Ethan¡¯s people?


    Before she could think further, another brick smashed through the floor-to-ceiling window.


    Rosie stood still in fear, tears spilling down her cheeks.


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    ¡°Can¡¯t you just leave me alone? I only gave Brenna a small lesson, and you still won¡¯t let this go¡­¡±


    Rosie lingered by the wall for a long while before mustering the courage to peek out the window. The barrage of bricks had stopped. From this high up, she couldn¡¯t tell how anyone had managed to throw them inside.


    Whoever had done it was long gone. Rosie had no intention of reporting anything to the police. Still, the situation at home no longer felt safe. Quietly, she began packing a few essentials and decided to stay at a hotel. The Empire Hotel seemed like the best choice; it had excellent security.


    As she packed, her phone buzzed with a trending news alert. ¡°The Harper heiress narrowly avoided an acid attack. The perpetrator has admitted to the crime and is currently in custody.¡±


    ¡°Harper family¡¯s heiress? Could it be Brenna?¡± Rosie murmured, tapping on the article.


    Her eyes then widened in disbelief. The attacker was actually Rachael, who was wearing prison clothes in the photos!


    Shocked, Rosie read the article thoroughly, needing to be sure. There was no mistake¡ªit was Rachael who had tried to carry out the acid attack against the Harper family.


    But she¡¯d been apprehended before anything happened.


    No wonder Rachael had vanished for so long.


    .


    .


    .<hr>


    Message from Noah: Hope you like the new content, best regards dear ones. God loves you and Noah wishes you all the best. ( ? ? ¨C ) ?


    .<fnf545> Updates are released by f?i?n?d?n?o?v?e?l?</fnf545>

 Chapter 1271

    ?Chapter 1271:


    Rosie stood still, her eyes falling to the suitcase. The idea of visiting Rachael vanished after she thought for a while. She didn¡¯t need any more trouble in her life right now.


    She already had enough.


    With onest nce at the article, she dragged the suitcase out of the room. It wasn¡¯t that she didn¡¯t care, but Rachael¡¯s choices were hers alone. She hadn¡¯t asked Rachael to do that.


    Whatever happened now, it was on Rachael.


    As the elevator descended, Rosie slipped on a mask, sunsses, and a wide-brimmed hat, shielding her identity as much as she could.


    Not long after, she checked into the Empire Hotel. For the past few days, she¡¯d been trying to sell off her properties. The houses had been sold quickly, but there were no buyers for herpanies.


    Meanwhile, Brenna hadn¡¯t been less busy. She¡¯d been actively working with Tommy to arrange a coboration with Denis.


    She had decided to split part of the robotics orders between Tommy and the Harper Group¡¯s electronics factory, intending to figure out the remaining allocationster.


    The scale of the orders was massive, and it was clear she would need to partner with multiple factories to meet the demand.


    She was aware that Vand had no shortage of advanced manufacturing nts, and if necessary, she could expand her search to other cities.


    That evening, when Brenna arrived home from work, Julia hurried to her just as she got out of her car.<fn6f8f> ???s ??????? ?s ?????? ?? fin?novel</fn6f8f>


    ¡°Miss Harper, Miss Rosie Harper¡¯s here. She¡¯s inside, crying.¡±


    ???§ï$¦Ó ?§ß¦Á¦Ñ¦Ó?§ñ$ ¨ª¦Ð galno¦Íe?s


    ¡°Crying? Why?¡± Brenna asked, not immediately stepping inside.


    Julia replied, ¡°She hase here to apologize. She is begging for your forgiveness and wants to sell herpanies to the Harper Group at an inted price. She also brought your grandmother with her. They¡¯re both in the living room.¡±


    Brenna hadn¡¯t expected her grandmother to show up. With Tessa involved, things were bound to get moreplicated.


    ¡°Miss Harper, are you going in? The whole family¡¯s inside as well. Your grandmother said if you forgive Miss Rosie, the matter will be dropped.¡±


    Brenna let out a sigh. ¡°There¡¯s no avoiding it. I¡¯ll go in.¡±


    She stepped into the house to find the entire Harper family assembled, including Ableson¡¯s branch. In the center of the room, Rosie was kneeling on the carpet, her shoulders trembling.


    Tessa, looking stern, turned to Shepard. ¡°Rosie¡¯s still young. It¡¯s normal for young people to make mistakes. If you think she deserves punishment, I won¡¯t stop you. But don¡¯t forget she¡¯s the only daughter your younger brother had. You shouldn¡¯t push her to the brink.¡±


    Ableson¡¯s family remained quiet, all eyes fixed on Shepard. These days, Ableson no longer involved himself inpany matters. He spent most of his time gardening and fishing, enjoying a rxing life.


    ¡°Shepard, it¡¯s your call,¡± Ableson said calmly. ¡°Whatever you decide, I¡¯ll support you.¡±


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 Chapter 1272

    ?Chapter 1272:


    Shepard felt cornered. The Harper children had always behaved properly; no one had anticipated Rosie dragging Tessa into this, looking for sympathy. Knowing Tessa¡¯s soft spot for the orphaned girl, it wasn¡¯t surprising she had shown up to defend Rosie.


    ¡°Ableson, you should contribute,¡± Shepard said, hoping to ease Tessa¡¯s anger and shift some of the pressure onto Ableson.


    But to his dismay, Ableson seemed just as cautious around Tessa.


    ¡°Grandma,¡± Brenna said calmly as she walked over and stood beside Rosie. ¡°I forgave her a long time ago.¡±


    Brenna had never been close to Tessa. They hadn¡¯t spent much time together, and in that regard, Rosie had the upper hand.


    Tessa¡¯s expression softened. ¡°I knew it. You¡¯re not one to bear grudges. Rosie made a mistake, but she admits that now. Let¡¯s just let the matter go.¡±


    The moment those words left Tessa¡¯s mouth, Rosie gripped the hem of Brenna¡¯s clothes tightly. ¡°Brenna, I know I messed up. Just tell Dad and Ernst to stop going after me. I swear I won¡¯t cause any more trouble for you. I¡¯ve lost everything; there¡¯s not a cent left. I even sold my houses to pay my employees. I really have nothing now. I get it. I see how powerful you are, and I¡¯ll never offend you again. Please¡­ forgive me.¡±<fn878b> Fresh chapters posted on find{n}ovel</fn878b>


    Brenna crouched down to help her up, but something about Rosie¡¯s words rubbed her the wrong way. Was she trying to say it wasn¡¯t her own actions that led to this? That the Harper family had driven her into a corner?


    She was suggesting that everyone in the Harper family, except her, was wrong, all bullying her.


    ¡°I¡¯ve already forgiven you,¡± Brenna said. ¡°And if you do something like this again, I won¡¯t hold it against you.¡±


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    Sarcasm came easily to Brenna.


    Rosie wasn¡¯t easily fooled. It became obvious at once that Brenna had no n to forgive her. Still, no matter what, Rosie was determined to make the Harper family buy back thosepanies at a high price. Her dignity was worthless in the face of financial desperation.


    The sound of her fall echoed as Rosie dropped to her knees in front of Brenna. She cried hard, and her tears would not stop.


    ¡°I get that you hate me, Brenna. I was selfish and immature before, and that is on me. I will not fight you for the Harper heiress title or the family¡¯s resources anymore. Even though you have billions and I am worth nothing, I won¡¯t ask for anything.¡±


    ¡°Stand up, Rosie.¡±


    Tessa¡¯s anger showed. ¡°You all have pushed this too far. Bullying a young girl is shameless.¡±


    Her re cut toward Shepard and Ernst. ¡°Do not pretend I am in the dark about what you did,¡± said Tessa. ¡°Rosie¡¯spanies copsed because you pulled strings. Otherwise, how could she be unable to sell herpanies?¡±


    Tessa looked at Brenna with a sharp stare. She believed Brenna set the n against Rosie.


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 Chapter 1273

    ?Chapter 1273:


    Brenna kept her face still, sensing that today¡¯s events might not go her way.


    ¡°I did this, Mom. Let¡¯s not talk about it anymore,¡± admitted Shepard. He could not find a better way to exin things to Tessa.


    Rosie had done wrong, yet Tessa was still her granddaughter, the same as Brenna. Tessa would not allow anyone to gang up on Rosie.


    ¡°Tell me what you n to do then,¡± said Tessa. Her tone stayed firm.


    ¡°I will buy herpanies at market price, and she keeps her shares in the Harper Group,¡± said Shepard. He could not see another way out.


    Tessa let out a sharp snort. ¡°That¡¯s better. If I catch any of you picking on Rosie again, I¡¯ll make sure you regret it.¡±


    A faint, cold smile tugged at Rosie¡¯s lips. Having Tessa step into this mess turned out to be exactly what she needed. Tessa remained the one person she could count on without question.


    ¡°Now!¡± Tessa¡¯s voice cut through the room. She knew her son¡¯s habits too well. Even though he wouldn¡¯t dare lie to her face, he might still make things difficult for Rosie once she was gone. ¡°Do it in front of me. Buy herpanies right away.¡±


    Shepard let out a resigned sigh. ¡°Mom, I meant what I said, and I¡¯m not trying to trick you. But the transfer can¡¯t happen tonight. The office has to be open for the paperwork, so we¡¯ll need to wait until tomorrow.¡±


    With a huff, Tessa¡¯s expression hardened. ¡°Then I¡¯ll stay here and keep watch. I won¡¯t let anyone bully Rosie again. Rosie, you can stay here as well. Forget the hotel.¡±


    A small crease formed between Brenna¡¯s brows. Somehow, Rosie had slipped her way back into their lives.


    The thought alone was enough to sour her mood.


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    The next day, Ernst had no choice but to apany Rosie toplete the paperwork and transfer the funds.


    Rosie¡¯s mood instantly lifted.


    That night, Brenna avoided going home for dinner. The idea of sitting across from both Tessa and Rosie was unbearable. Instead, she went out with Ellie to a seafood ce.


    Patrick, a die-hard seafood lover, joined them.


    ¡°Brenna, what¡¯s got you looking so down? Did someone bully you?¡± Patrick asked the second he sat down, seeing that Brenna was not in a good mood today.


    A slow breath left Brenna. ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m upset. It¡¯s nothing huge, but someone I can¡¯t stand decided to get under my skin. I¡¯ll let her think she¡¯s winning for a few days. And then, I¡¯ll handle her properly.¡±


    Patrick tilted his head and gave his chest a light tap. ¡°If you run into trouble, just tell me. I will help you.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Brenna reached over, gave his nose a yful squeeze, and told the waiter to bring him his favorite¡ªlobster and oysters.<fnd267> Checktest chapters at f?i?n?d?n?o?v?e?l?</fnd267>


    After that, she turned to Ellie, venting to her about Rosie¡¯s disgusting behavior. ¡°Unbelievable. She actually dropped to her knees just to squeeze money out of you. That woman will do anything to get what she wants. I¡¯ve got an idea that might work in your favor¡­¡± Ellie leaned in closer.


    Soon, augh escaped Brenna. ¡°That¡¯s actually a pretty smart n.¡±


    The food arrived just as Brenna caught sight of someone at the entrance¡ªGracie.


    Gracie had a quick conversation with the waiter before heading to a table. Momentster, Rosie walked in, dressed in a freshly bought outfit and wearing a wide smile.


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 Chapter 1274

    ?Chapter 1274:


    She hurried over to Gracie¡¯s table and took a seat.


    ¡°Gracie, have you made a decision yet?¡± Rosie asked.


    Gracie¡¯s eyes chilled instantly, her irritation clear. If she hadn¡¯t dug into the details and spoken to Ethan, she might have fallen for Rosie¡¯s tricks. ¡°You¡¯ve already sold everypany you own. You have no projects. Are you seriously trying to scam me?¡±


    Rosie¡¯s expression flickered in shock. She hadn¡¯t expected Gracie to know this. She quickly said, ¡°I sold thepanies in Vand, sure. But my projects and businesses in Plieca are still running.¡±


    Rosie felt exposed, the thought of sitting down to dinner with Gracie suddenly unbearable.


    Still, she wasn¡¯t ready to give up easily.


    But despite her persuasion, Gracie refused to invest in her project.


    ¡°I¡¯m betting on Brenna¡¯s robotics project,¡± Gracie said, her voice edged with conviction. ¡°I went all the way to Plieca, and the project you pitched hasn¡¯t even started. Total waste of time and money.¡±<fn3cbd> The rightful source is FindN()vel</fn3cbd>


    The frustration in her tone deepened as she remembered the trip. If she hadn¡¯t dug into the details herself, she might have fallen headfirst into a scam, and it could have cost her everything.


    Rosie¡¯s warmth vanished in an instant when she realized she couldn¡¯t convince Gracie to invest in her project. ¡°And what makes you so sure Brenna¡¯s project is worth anything? I¡¯m telling you, it¡¯s nothing but lies the Harper family spreads to trick you into investing.¡±


    She then grabbed her bag and left.


    Gracie didn¡¯t bother to stop her.


    I/t?$+ ?h?pt?r? ?? g????v¨º??.c?m


    The instant Rosie stepped outside, her phone began to ring.


    Alec¡¯s name lit up the screen. Without hesitation, she declined the call and blocked his number.


    She no longer needed Alec now.


    Brenna had been keeping a quiet watch on Rosie and Gracie¡¯s conversation.


    ¡°Why hasn¡¯t Rosie left the country yet? She has sold off everything she had in Vand. What¡¯s keeping her here?¡± Ellie said to Brenna.


    Brenna looked away and said, ¡°Your guess is as good as mine. Maybe she¡¯s lining up her next move. She¡¯s ambitious and shrewd. She even got my grandmother to take her side. I don¡¯t know what she told my grandmother, but now, she isn¡¯t even angry about Rosie¡¯s part in my grandfather¡¯s death.¡±


    Ellie¡¯s curiosity deepened. ¡°She had a hand in your grandfather¡¯s death, so your grandmother should hate her. Didn¡¯t your family throw her out back then?¡±


    Brenna gave a slow nod. ¡°Yeah. So this feels a lot moreplicated than it looks.¡±


    Later that day, Rosie returned to the Harper estate. As she reached the third floor, she caught the sound of voicesing from one of the bedrooms. Shepard and Ernst were talking inside.


    ¡°Did you finish transferring the two electronics factories to Brenna?¡± Shepard asked.


    Ernst answered, ¡°Yeah, the paperwork was finalized yesterday. She¡¯s officially the owner now. Honestly, Dad, I think Brenna¡¯s got a better head for business than I do. Herpany might be small at the moment, but give it time¡ªit¡¯ll outgrow the Harper Group.¡±


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 Chapter 1275

    ?Chapter 1275:


    They spoke casually, unaware that Rosie was listening in.


    Rage red in Rosie¡¯s chest. She slipped quietly back to her room, careful not to be caught eavesdropping.


    Standing in front of the mirror, her reflection staring back at her, she muttered to herself, ¡°Why? We¡¯re both Harpers. Why does Brenna get everything handed to her while I have nothing? They give herpanies like it¡¯s nothing, but what about me? They don¡¯t give me anything! Is it because my parents died early? Do they think that gives them the right to hand my shares to someone else? If my parents were still alive, I¡¯d have shares,panies, property, and their love. But now? Everyone treats me like I don¡¯t matter. They¡¯ll pay for this. I¡¯ll take back what¡¯s mine. I won¡¯t let anyone step on me again!¡±


    The next morning, Tessa, awake at six as usual, decided to check on Rosie. Rosie¡¯s door stood slightly open. As Tessa reached for it, the sound of quiet sobs stopped her. She froze, listening.


    ¡°Mom, Dad, why did you leave so soon? Why didn¡¯t you take me with you instead of leaving me here to suffer? I¡¯m useless. I¡¯m stupid. I couldn¡¯t even protect what belonged to us¡ªour shares, taken by my cousins. I can¡¯t bring myself to ask them to give them back since Grandpa allowed it. I wish I could be with you. I wouldn¡¯t have to endure this anymore.¡±


    Hearing that, Tessa exhaled slowly, guilt creeping into her heart.


    ¡°This poor child has endured too much,¡± she muttered to herself, pushing the door open gently.


    Rosie sat on a small sofa with her back to the door, clutching what looked like a photo of herte parents, speaking to them through her tears.


    Tessa¡¯s chest tightened. Rosie had always kept her pain to herself, never letting it show. Tessa believed that, with Rosie¡¯s parents gone, if she didn¡¯t step in to defend Rosie, who would?


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    Rosie continued as if she hadn¡¯t noticed Tessae in. ¡°Mom, Dad, weren¡¯t those shares supposed to be mine? Why did Grandpa give them to my cousins instead? I¡¯m too young to question him, but I¡¯ll never believe that is right.¡±


    Her voice wavered, then softened. ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter. I still have a few shares left. They say I¡¯ll have to hand them back when I go back to Plieca, but they¡¯ve promised me an allowance every year. It¡¯s not fair, but I¡¯ll listen to Grandpa. I won¡¯t argue¡­¡±


    Tessa walked over, and Rosie turned quickly, pretending to be surprised, wiping at her eyes and flipping the photo face-down. ¡°Grandma, when did you get here?¡± She then tried to smile through her tears. ¡°I¡¯m fine, really. Don¡¯t worry about me.¡±


    Tessa¡¯s voice was gentle. ¡°My dear, you¡¯ve been treated unfairly. Hold on to the shares you have. No one has the right to take them from you.¡±


    In the tender embrace of her grandmother, Rosie wept for what seemed an eternity. Tessa, her heart aching for the girl who had endured relentless taunts, offered sce in the quiet sanctuary of her bedroom, their bond deepening through shared moments offort.


    At breakfast, Rosie, with a gentle hand, guided Tessa into the elevator, chatting andughing with her.


    At that moment, Brenna emerged from her room, catching sight of their joyful exchange.


    Choosing solitude, she opted for the stairs, descending gracefully to the grand dining hall.<fnf8ba> ?????? ???? fin?novel</fnf8ba>


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 Chapter 1276

    ?Chapter 1276:


    As Brenna reached the first floor, Rosie and Tessa emerged from the elevator. With care, Rosie settled Tessa into a chair before turning to Brenna with a bright smile. ¡°Brenna, you¡¯re up early, too?¡± she said cheerfully.


    ¡°Indeed,¡± Brenna replied with a nod. ¡°Work calls, so no lingering in bed for me today.¡±


    Tessa¡¯s expression clouded, her eyes casting a frosty nce at Brenna, who brushed it off with a deliberately casual greeting.


    Soon, Shepard and Giselle joined them, followed by Ernst, fresh from his morning jog.


    They gathered around the table, and Rosie, her voice dripping with sweetness, broached a new topic. ¡°In two weeks, it¡¯s Brenna¡¯s birthday, her second since returning to the family. Shall we throw a grand party to mark the asion?¡± Her smile was all kindness, but the Harper family members knew Rosie¡¯s knack for scheming. They suspected this talk of celebration was merely a ploy woven from her cunning threads.


    When silence met her suggestion, Rosie pressed on, her tone coaxing. ¡°Surely we should celebrate Brenna¡¯s special day, shouldn¡¯t we?¡±


    She turned to Brenna, certain she would revel in the spotlight, wanting to bask in a shower of gifts and ttery, especially after her years with the Barrett family, when her birthdays had gone unmarked.


    ¡°Brenna, what do you say? You¡¯ve only been back a short while. Avish party, with all the town¡¯s finest celebrating your birthday, wouldn¡¯t that be splendid?¡± Rosie, who thrived on the adoration of her own birthdays, assumed Brenna shared her love for the limelight.<fnde41> Read full story at find?novel</fnde41>


    Brenna¡¯s response was cool andposed. ¡°No, thank you. I¡¯m not one for fanfare.¡±


    Rosie, stunned, thought Brenna was merely putting on an act, expecting to be persuaded.


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    ¡°Oh,e now! A young woman¡¯s birthday is a grand affair. How can we let it pass quietly?¡± she eximed, her eyes wide with disbelief. ¡°If you¡¯d rather not n it, I would be happy to take the reins. I¡¯ve plenty of experience. I¡ª¡±


    Brenna cut her off, her tone firm. ¡°I appreciate it, but no. A quiet gathering with family is all I want. Extravagant disys are little more than stepping stones for social climbers.¡±


    Giselle, seeing through Rosie¡¯s facade, recalled the fiasco of Brenna¡¯s wee dinner and knew better than to trust Rosie with such ns.


    ¡°We¡¯ll do whatever Brenna wants,¡± Giselle said, ncing at Shepard. ¡°What do you think, dear?¡±


    Shepard gave a nod. ¡°I agree. Let¡¯s just have the chef whip up a few extra dishes and call the whole family together for dinner.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s face betrayed a flicker of disappointment, but a quiet family gathering wouldn¡¯t derail her carefullyid ns. If a grand party was off the table, she could adapt.


    ¡°I only thought Brenna might enjoy a spirited celebration,¡± she said, wearing a pout on purpose.


    Tessa, ever observant, sensed an undercurrent of hostility toward Rosie from Shepard¡¯s family.


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 Chapter 1277

    ?Chapter 1277:<fn1338> ?????? ???? FindN0vel</fn1338>


    Her protective instincts red. ¡°Rosie had nothing but good intentions,¡± she said to Shepard and Giselle. ¡°We¡¯ve always thrown lively bashes for the girls¡¯ birthdays. Don¡¯t say no now and then secretly arrange er.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s brow furrowed, and she felt stung by the usation. She hadn¡¯t noticed Tessa¡¯s favoritism toward Rosie before, but since Rosie¡¯s return, it was ringly obvious. She wondered what Rosie had been saying to Tessa behind their backs.


    ¡°Tessa, Audrey never had a birthday party,¡± Giselle countered sharply. ¡°It¡¯s only Rosie who has had a grand affair every year.¡±


    Tessa froze, the truth hitting hard. Audrey¡¯s birthdays had always been simple family dinners, while Rosie¡¯s had been marked with fanfare.


    Stung by the challenge, she retorted, ¡°Our family is one of the city¡¯s most prominent families. What is wrong with a proper celebration? Why are you saying this? It seems you dislike Rosie.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s lips curled into a wry smile. ¡°Dislike her? I wouldn¡¯t dare. It seems Rosie¡¯s word isw in this house now. She is the one calling the shots.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s eyes welled up, tears cascading down her cheeks in a theatrical disy. ¡°Are you still angry with me? I know I messed up. Please forgive me. I don¡¯t care about my shares anymore. I¡¯ll hand them all to Brenna.¡±


    Tessa¡¯s anger surged, her hand mming the table. ¡°Absolutely not! Those shares are yours, Rosie, and no one will strip them from you.¡±


    Brenna caught a fleeting gleam of cunning satisfaction in Rosie¡¯s tearful eyes.


    ¡°Grandma,¡± Brenna said calmly. ¡°I¡¯ve never asked for her shares. I¡¯m being unfairly painted as the viin here.¡±


    Ernst opened his mouth to speak, but a subtle nce from Shepard silenced him.


    Shepard¡¯s tone was measured yet firm. ¡°Mom, no one is after Rosie¡¯s shares. Besides, those shares were purchased from other Harper family members. She earned them rightfully. Why would we take them away from her?¡±


    More chapters avable at g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í??s


    Tessa fixed Rosie with a discerning look, her eyes narrowing slightly. Rosie had conveniently omitted the fact that she had purchased the shares in Harper Group.


    If that were true, Rosie¡¯s ambition was far from modest.


    ¡°Rosie, is this true?¡± Tessa inquired, her tone measured yet probing.


    Rosie hesitated, her voice tinged with caution. ¡°Grandma, I¡­ I acquired shares in the Harper Group only to support Maxley¡¯s campaign,¡± she exined, wary of Tessa misinterpreting her intentions.


    Tessa nodded subtly, her expression contemtive. ¡°Your grandfather always maintained that shares shouldn¡¯t pass to married daughters. I don¡¯t know what to say about this now.¡±


    Shepard let out a soft chuckle, brushing off the outdated notion. ¡°My dad¡¯s views were far too rigid. We should not be bound by his rules. Rosie bought those shares fair and square. They¡¯re hers to keep. And when Audrey and Brenna wed, I won¡¯t be wing back their shares, either.¡±


    Rosie, sensing an opportunity, pressed her case with a hint of indignation. ¡°Dad, doesn¡¯t that mean my earlier shares should be returned to me?¡±


    Tessa¡¯s sharp gaze shifted to Shepard. ¡°Indeed, by your logic, Rosie should get those shares back. Just because Rosie¡¯s parents are no longer with us doesn¡¯t mean you should shortchange her.¡±


    .


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 Chapter 1278

    ?Chapter 1278:


    Shepard nodded thoughtfully, his eyes studying Rosie. ¡°Of course, I¡¯ll see to it that they¡¯re returned,¡± he said, though he couldn¡¯t help but notice Rosie had be cunning. By merely bringing up Brenna¡¯s birthday celebration, she had deftly maneuvered to reim her shares.


    He had clearly underestimated her.


    Brenna caught Rosie¡¯s eye, and for a fleeting moment, a spark of resentment flickered in Rosie¡¯s gaze.


    Brenna averted her eyes discreetly, her mind racing as she calcted Rosie¡¯s stake in the Harper Group. If her estimates were correct, Rosie already held seven percent. With her previous shares reinstated, that could climb to ten percent, perhaps more. That was a significant holding, surpassing even hers. The thought stirred a quiet unease in Brenna.


    Despite Rosie¡¯s recent setbacks, losing severalpanies and a fortune, she was far from destitute. Brenna realized Rosie had been skillfully ying the victim, trying to tug at everyone¡¯s heartstrings. Dayster, Rosie arranged another meal with Gracie.


    This time, Gracie¡¯s demeanor was noticeably warmer toward Rosie, her earlier frostiness thawed by Rosie¡¯s disy of resilience.


    Even after bankruptcy, Rosie had staged a remarkableeback.


    Herpanies, expected to fetch a mere ten million, had been sold well above market value. Gracie found herself reassessing Rosie¡¯s proposition with fresh eyes.


    She believed that Rosie was, without a doubt, more resourceful and capable than most.<fnec1d> Official source is find{n}ovel</fnec1d>


    Gracie recognized Rosie¡¯s potential now. ¡°What do you need from me?¡± she asked.


    Rosie, buoyed by her recent sesses, was in high spirits. Her ns were unfolding seamlessly. Hiring assassins had proven simpler than anticipated. After she had announced a generous reward, elite experts had lined up eagerly. Hervish offer had clearly done the trick.


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    She intended to recruit a few more to ensure her ns were executed wlessly.


    Rosie offered Gracie a serene smile. ¡°Nothing, just thought we could enjoy a meal together.¡±


    She knew Gracie was no ordinary heiress. Gracie was sharp, forward-thinking, and cautious to a fault. Outsmarting her would demand meticulous strategy.


    Beaming with quiet triumph, Rosie said, ¡°I¡¯m in a wonderful mood. I now hold seven percent of the Harper Group¡¯s shares. In a few days, they¡¯ll give me back the shares they took from me, bringing my total to eleven percent. I couldn¡¯t wait to share the good news and celebrate with someone.¡±


    ¡°Congrattions,¡± Gracie said, her curiosity piqued as she leaned forward slightly. ¡°How did you manage to get the Harper family to ept you again?¡±


    Rosie¡¯s lips curled into an enigmatic smile. ¡°Well, let me tell you¡­¡±


    The two lingered over their meal, savoring wine and light conversation, theirughter weaving through the air.


    Soon, Brenna¡¯s birthday arrived.


    Rather than taking the day to celebrate, Brenna headed to the office as usual, her routine unshaken by the asion.


    As she stepped into the lobby in the morning, she crossed paths with Alec, who was practically radiating cheer.


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 Chapter 1279

    ?Chapter 1279:


    The previous day, Rosie had slipped him another thirty thousand dors to keep tabs on Ethan¡¯spany, a generous sum that had clearly boosted his spirits.


    Rosie¡¯s renewed connection with him,plete with a steady flow of pocket money, had put a noticeable spring in his step.


    ¡°Happy Birthday, Brenna!¡± Alec called out, his tone bright.


    Brenna offered a polite nod, her demeanor calm. Noticing his unusually chipper demeanor, she went to her office and fired off a message to Isabe, probing for the reason behind Alec¡¯s good mood.


    Isabe¡¯s reply came swiftly.


    ¡°Yesterday, Rosie gave him another thirty grand and asked him to y spy. I overheard their call.¡±


    ¡°No wonder he is all smiles today. What did they discuss?¡± Brenna texted back.<fn26ae> Chapters first released on Find[?]ovel</fn26ae>


    ¡°It seems she wants him to keep an eye on you and Mr. Mitchell. Any updates about you two, he is to report to her immediately. Oh, and I also heard him filling Rosie in on Gracie¡¯s recent activities,¡± Isabe replied.


    ¡°She is keeping tabs on Gracie, too?¡± Brenna asked, surprised.


    Isabe responded, ¡°Yeah. My dad was spilling all sorts of details about Gracie to Rosie. When she leaves the office, who she is meeting, her work¡­ everything.¡±


    Just then, a knock at the door came in Brenna¡¯s office. Thiago entered, bncing two elegantly wrapped gift boxes, which he set gently on her desk.


    ¡°From Ellie and me,¡± Thiago said with a warm smile. ¡°Ellie figured you would be tied up with family dinner tonight, so she is nning to take you to a meal tomorrow evening.¡±


    At that moment, Joe and Tommy also entered, their arms full of gift boxes.


    ¡°Brenna, these are from the whole crew. Happy Birthday!¡± they said, their enthusiasm filling the room.


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    ¡°Thanks, everyone.¡± Brenna¡¯s face lit up at the sight of the pile of gifts, and she felt she ought to do something in return. She knew she should take everyone out for a meal, but big gatherings weren¡¯t her thing. She had no love for being the center of attention.


    After some thought, she said, ¡°I¡¯ll treat you all to coffee and desserts! Write down whatever you¡¯re craving and let Lorna know. I¡¯ll put in the orderter.¡±


    Joe, Tommy, and Thiago chuckled. They¡¯d known Brenna long enough to understand her well. Thiago grinned. ¡°In that case, we¡¯re not holding back!¡±


    Joeughed. ¡°Honestly, Brenna, you might as well choose for us. We¡¯re not that picky. With the number of people in ourpany, not many shops could prepare that amount of desserts on short notice. Just pick whatever you want; we¡¯re not hard to please.¡±


    Brenna nodded and turned to Lorna. ¡°Order enough for everyone to have their fill, and make sure there¡¯s plenty of variety so they can take what they like.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve got a few great spots in mind,¡± Lorna replied. ¡°When ites to food and drinks, I know my way around. You can count on me.¡±


    Brenna transferred the money over right away so Lorna could handle the order. News of the treat spread quickly, and the staff in thepany erupted in cheers, filling the group chat with birthday messages for Brenna. Brenna made sure to thank everyone for their warm birthday wishes.


    Even though covering everyone¡¯s food set Brenna back tens of thousands, she felt genuinely happy. No one minded that she hadn¡¯t taken them out to eat, and she liked this easy, low-key way of showing appreciation.


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 Chapter 1280

    ?Chapter 1280:


    Still, Brenna found herself distracted all day, ncing at her phone again and again. By noon, she¡¯d checked it dozens of times. Not a single birthday message or gift hade from Ethan. It was as if he¡¯d forgotten that today was her birthday.


    Her eyes lingered on their chat thread. ¡°Should I give him a little nudge?¡± she murmured under her breath.


    The thought left her torn.


    By the time the workday wrapped up, there was still nothing from Ethan, no message, no gifts. And even after work, she didn¡¯t see Ethaning out of the building.


    With no other option, she made her way home by herself.


    A faint heaviness settled over her during the drive.


    When she arrived home, her eyes widened at the scene before her; strings of lights glimmered across the yard, balloons swayed gently in the breeze, and fresh flowers brightened the garden.


    Tables and chairs were already in ce, set with fruit, juice, and beer, ready for a celebration.


    From the kitchen came the sound of ttering pans as the chef worked on dinner.


    Shepard and Ernst had even left work early just to celebrate Brenna¡¯s birthday, each arriving with a gift in hand.


    ¡°Happy birthday, Brenna!¡±


    They both smiled as they said that.


    Brenna epted both presents from her father and brother, her smile genuine as warmth filled her chest. ¡°Thank you, Dad. Thank you, Ernst.¡±


    Giselle soon approached, holding a small red jewelry box. She opened it to reveal a delicate ne and fastened it around Brenna¡¯s neck. ¡°It¡¯s gorgeous, Mom. Thank you.¡±


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    Just then, Rosie helped Tessa out of the house, steadying her as she carried a gift in her hands. With a warm smile, Tessa passed it to Brenna and said, ¡°Since you¡¯re not one for parties, we¡¯ll have our own little celebration. Happy birthday.¡± Even though Brenna didn¡¯t feel particrly close to Tessa, she still stepped forward to hug her and said, ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Then, Rosie handed over arger box, the shape hinting at a handbag inside. ¡°Happy birthday, Brenna!¡±


    Brenna nced at it briefly but didn¡¯t open it. ¡°Thank you!¡±


    Rosie nced toward the gate, and still, no sign of Ethan. ¡°Doesn¡¯t Ethan know it¡¯s your birthday today? I thought he¡¯d be here early. It¡¯s past seven already; maybe he¡¯s noting?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure,¡± Brenna said, a faint trace of disappointment in her voice.


    Ernst pulled out his phone and quickly sent Ethan a message, asking why he hadn¡¯t shown up yet.


    Just as the message was sent, the sound of an engine drew their attention. A sleek luxury car rolled up to the entrance. Brenna recognized it instantly. It was Ethan¡¯s.<fnd53a> ???s ??????? ?s ?????? ?? Find¡ïNovel</fnd53a>


    ¡°He¡¯s here!¡± Brenna didn¡¯t even notice that the sight of Ethan¡¯s car had instantly swept away her earlier gloom.


    It didn¡¯t matter if he waste or even if he came without a gift. As long as he showed up to celebrate with her, nothing else mattered.


    Ethan stepped out of the car with a bright, cheerful smile, holding a massive bouquet of roses and a beautifully wrapped gift box. Walking straight toward Brenna, he said, ¡°Happy birthday, Brenna!¡±


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 Chapter 1281

    ?Chapter 1281:


    Brenna¡¯s eyes lit up at the sight of the massive bouquet.


    With a small smile, Ethan pressed a gentle kiss to Brenna¡¯s forehead. ¡°These flowers are flown in fresh from Goldwick.¡±


    Rosie felt a pang of envy. She had assumed Ethan wouldn¡¯t even know it was Brenna¡¯s birthday today, let alonee here to celebrate it with her.


    Yet here he was, carrying roses imported from overseas for her.


    Neville followed close behind, carefully lifting arge birthday cake from the trunk and setting it on a cart to wheel inside.


    Ethan exined, ¡°This cake was crafted by Goldwick¡¯s top pastry chef and flown in chilled.¡±


    Neville said to Brenna with a grin, ¡°Mr. Mitchell personally arranged a private jet to deliver it, Miss Harper, and that¡¯s not the only surprise he has for you.¡±


    Brenna cradled the enormous bouquet, nearly a meter wide, in her arms, shutting her eyes to breathe in the sweet fragrance, letting herself get lost in it. Ethan¡¯s lips curved into an uncontainable smile, as if in that moment he was the luckiest man alive.


    ¡°Do you like it?¡± he asked softly.


    Brenna opened her eyes, inhaled the roses¡¯ intoxicating scent once more, and beamed. ¡°I love it!¡±


    ¡°Wow, that¡¯s a huge bouquet of roses!¡± Audrey¡¯s voice rang out as she and Lennon approached, followed by Ableson and his wife. All of them smiled warmly at Brenna.


    Audrey passed a gift box to Julia, her gaze lingering on the roses with a mix of admiration and envy. ¡°I wish someone would give me a bouquet this size. I¡¯m so jealous!¡±


    New content avable g?ln¦Ò¦Íe??s


    Leaning closer for a better look, she added, ¡°Wait, aren¡¯t these Rose Centifolia? Did theye from Goldwick? Brenna, Ethan is truly so good to you!¡±


    From the sidelines, Rosie watched Brenna surrounded by family, basking in one congrattion after another. Her gaze dropped to her watch, her expression hardening. Three minutes from now, Darwin would arrive. He was the man that Giselle had introduced to Brenna. Rosie believed Brenna would surely feel awkward when Darwin and Ethan crossed paths.


    Rumor had it that Brenna met with Darwin often, and Rosie suspected she might be involved with both men at once.


    If the two men ended up face-to-face at Brenna¡¯s birthday celebration, who would she pick?


    Even if Brenna chose Ethan, the one with more money and influence, Rosie believed Ethan would still feel ufortable about the situation.


    Ethan reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out a red jewelry box. With deliberate care, he flipped it open to reveal a dazzling five-carat diamond ring, its brilliance catching the light.


    Gasps swept through the Harper family and the household staff alike, their eyes filled with awe, envy, and excitement as they looked at Brenna.


    ¡°Wow¡­¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s proposing! I can¡¯t believe it!¡± Julia eximed to the servants nearby, clutching her hands to her chest as her eyes stayed locked on Brenna and Ethan, unwilling to miss even a heartbeat of the moment.


    ¡°It¡¯s Miss Harper who¡¯s getting the proposal, not you! Why are you so excited?¡± another maid teased, her own excitement just as obvious, her expression even more over-the-top than Julia¡¯s.


    Ethan lowered himself onto one knee, his gaze warm and overflowing with affection. ¡°Brenna, will you marry me?¡±<fn29d6> The source of th?s content is Find[?]ovel</fn29d6>


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 Chapter 1282

    ?Chapter 1282:


    ¡°Yes, I will!¡± Brenna answered instantly, offering her hand so Ethan could slide the ring onto her finger.


    Her quick response caught Ethan off guard. ¡°You¡¯re agreeing that fast?¡± He¡¯d expected Brenna, or her family, to grill him with a few serious questions first.


    ¡°I love you. Why would I hesitate?¡± Brenna said.


    Darwin appeared at the edge of the gathering, holding a bouquet of blue roses and a small, elegant jewelry box. He had arrived just in time to see Ethan¡¯s proposal.


    A quiet sigh escaped him. Closing the box, he forced a wry smile before stepping forward. ¡°Seems I missed my chance. Brenna, I wish you happiness.¡± He extended the blue roses toward Brenna with graciousposure.


    Brenna turned to Julia and gave her the bouquet she was holding. ¡°Put this somewhere everyone can see. Happiness is meant to be shared.¡±


    Then, she epted the bouquet from Darwin with a smile. ¡°Thank you! These flowers are beautiful!¡±<fnc065> Newest update provided by F¦ÉndNovel</fnc065>


    Rosie could hardly believe what she was seeing. Darwin, the man she had counted on to stir up chaos, had simply given up without a fight. Wasn¡¯t he supposed to at least try to win Brenna over?


    That morning, Rosie had been worried Darwin might be unaware it was Brenna¡¯s birthday or that the family was holding a small celebration.


    She had deliberately made sure to inform him, eager to witness a scene that would expose Brenna¡¯s betrayal, but Darwin had turned out to be aplete letdown.


    Rosie¡¯s eyes narrowed as she watched Darwin linger beside Brenna, handing her a neatly wrapped gift box like nothing was amiss.


    What made her blood boil even more was Ethan¡¯s reaction, or rather, hisck of one. He didn¡¯t look the slightest bit bothered.


    Keep reading at g¦Ál¦Çovels?c©–m


    For weeks, Rosie had kept herself in check, avoiding unnecessary trouble, determined to convince her grandmother that she was kindhearted and unfairly treated by the family.


    Now was not the time to shatter that image, so she swallowed her irritation.


    Still, the frustration churned inside her.


    Her gaze drifted toward Tessa, who stood with Shepard and Ableson supporting her. A faint smile curved Tessa¡¯s lips; she was clearly pleased by what she was witnessing.


    ¡°Grandma, who¡¯s the man giving Brenna roses? Is he here to propose to her, too?¡± Rosie asked, unable to resist baiting Tessa for a reaction.


    As expected, Tessa¡¯s expression shifted, and she turned to Shepard. ¡°Who is he?¡±


    Shepard hesitated, uncertain, and assumed Darwin was just another one of Brenna¡¯s admirers.


    Giselle interjected smoothly, ¡°Oh, he¡¯s just a friend of Brenna¡¯s. Probably has a bit of a crush on her. Didn¡¯t you see? He has already congratted her and Ethan. Nothing to worry about, Tessa.¡±


    Another attempt from Rosie to cause trouble had fallen t.


    With barely a flicker of interest, Giselle sent Rosie a quick 100k, having figured out her tricks in advance.


    Rosie kept her gaze anywhere but on Giselle and gave a stiff smile. ¡°You know, it seems like he¡¯s interested in Brenna as well. She sure has a lot of admirers.¡±


    Trying not to draw attention, she shot a nce at Audrey. Audrey, hearing Rosie¡¯s words, nced back.


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 Chapter 1283

    ?Chapter 1283:


    Their eyes locked briefly. Rosie sensed the chill in Audrey¡¯s stare. There was a time when Audrey would have been the first to greet her. But now, Audrey¡¯s attitude toward her was cold. She hadn¡¯t bothered with even a simple hello today.


    It felt like everyone around her was so opportunistic. Rosie resented how they used her situation against her after she lost her parents so young. ¡°Happy Birthday to you¡­¡±


    Someone had begun the song, and each note only made Rosie more ufortable. All she could think about was how Brenna seemed to be at the center of it all, stealing the attention she craved.


    Phones filled the air as guests captured Ethan¡¯s proposal. Rosie joined in, snapping pictures and posting them online with enthusiasm like everyone else. Later, as the cake was cut and wishes were made, Rosie continued taking pictures and recording clips. She uploaded each one, her feed filling up with snapshots of the party. Socialites from Shirie shared her posts.


    She saw many familiar names in thements, recalling how these people hadn¡¯t been so eager to congratte her on her birthdays in past years. They all knew that Brenna was the true heiress of the Harper family, while she was nothing.


    With that bitter realization, Rosie¡¯s frustration grew. She watched Brenna glow in the center of attention, Ethan at her side, his hand gently guiding hers through the cake-cutting process.


    They wore matching smiles that seemed to infect everyone watching. Laughter and cheer circled the pair.


    The birthday celebration of Brenna stretched on. People lingered, unwilling to let the night end, finally trickling out only when the clock pushed past midnight. Brenna had walked Ethan out herself before heading back upstairs. Stepping into her room, she found gift boxes scattered from the table down to the floor, and her mood instantly lifted.


    L?t?st ch¦Ápt?rs in g??lnovels.??????


    The highlight of her day was Ethan¡¯s proposal.


    She snapped several photos of her ring, framing her hand from every angle, too thrilled to go to sleep. Even lying in bed, she kept messaging Ethan.


    She woke up the next day at noon.


    Gifts littered every corner of her room. Overwhelmed with gratitude, Brenna freshened up, put on a bit of makeup, and began opening each package. Inside, she found everything from clothes and shoes to designer bags, the newest lipsticks, trinkets, and soft plush toys. The pile was impressive.


    A knock at the door brought Julia inside. Her eyes widened at the sight. She couldn¡¯t hide her delight. ¡°Look at all these gifts!¡±<fna8f7> Read full story at findnovel</fna8f7>


    With wrapping materials piling up near the doorway, Julia quickly summoned two more maids to help haul the empty boxes away.


    Julia turned to Brenna with a smile. ¡°Let me give you a hand with opening these.¡±


    Brenna nodded. ¡°I¡¯d love that. There are too many for me to get through on my own.¡±


    Julia pitched in, and as the two unwrapped the presents, Brenna eventually decided she needed a break. She settled onto her bed and started a video call with Ellie.


    Ellie¡¯s reaction was instant. ¡°You¡¯re unbelievably lucky!¡± she eximed, her envy clear even over video. ¡°Did you see? The clip of Ethan proposing to you went viral. You two are trending all over the inte. I am so envious¡­¡±


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 Chapter 1284

    ?Chapter 1284:


    Brenna couldn¡¯t helpughing. ¡°Feeling jealous? Let¡¯s go out for dinner tonight, my treat.¡±


    Ellie perked up. ¡°Then I want you to go all out. Let¡¯s eat at Cloud Pce, the fanciest spot in Shirie! You¡¯re paying for everything.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    Julia had spent ages tearing through wrapping paper, but even after all that work, only half the mountain of gifts had been opened. Gazing at the endless boxes, she realized this was going to take a team. Without hesitation, she called over two more maids for backup.


    With three people doing it, the process sped up. In just thirty minutes, every gifty open. Presents crowded the table, the floor, the sofa¡ªeven the coffee table waspletely covered with tokens from friends.


    ¡°There are so many gifts, I don¡¯t even have space for them all,¡± Brenna said, feeling half-amused and half-overwhelmed by the situation. She selected a few pretty ornaments for the tabletop, picked out some lipsticks that caught her eye, and kept two plush toys. ¡°You¡¯ve all helped me out for quite a while. Please, each of you, choose something you like. Julia, make a list for me. When these people¡¯s birthdayse around, I want to be sure to return the favor.¡±


    Hearing this, Julia and the two maids beamed, each selecting a lipstick from the collection.


    Brenna might have been spoiled with luxury gifts, but she offered each maid only one. Still, no oneined. One lipstick was worth more than what they usually made in an entire month.


    ¡°Thank you, Miss Harper!¡± the three eximed, tucking their chosen gifts away and getting to work clearing out the leftover boxes and wrappings.


    While Julia and the others tidied up, Rosie lingered at the doorway, peeking into the gift-filled room. She rememberedst year¡ªBrenna had never gotten this much attention back then.


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    Brenna hadn¡¯t even thrown a big party, but news of her birthday had spread. All sorts of people had sent gifts.


    Rosie couldn¡¯t help but think that everyone in Shirie seemed eager to tter Brenna.


    That afternoon, Brenna made her way to the office. The moment she exited the elevator, she could feel the attention turn to her¡ªespecially focused on the sparkling ring she wore.


    The men nced her way, their expressions tinged with envy. The women quickly gathered around, drawn in by curiosity.<fnca6d> ???s ??????? ?s ?????? ?? find?novel</fnca6d>


    ¡°Brenna, can we see your diamond ring up close? Five carats is incredible!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve only ever seen one like it in magazines.¡±


    ¡°Getting to see a five-carat diamond ring in real life¡ªthis is something I¡¯ll remember forever!¡±


    Excitement buzzed through the crowd, everyone eager for a closer look at the dazzling ring.


    Today, no one called her Miss Harper. They simply addressed her as Brenna.


    Brenna felt a warm sense of eptance.


    They weren¡¯t just showing her respect¡ªthey saw her as someone they could follow.


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 Chapter 1285

    ?Chapter 1285:


    Feeling joyful, Brenna offered her hand, letting her coworkers admire the ring as much as they pleased.


    ¡°How did I never notice before? Brenna, your hands are gorgeous. This ring was made for you!¡±


    ¡°It looks incredible on you!¡±<fn817d> The source of th?s content is find?novel</fn817d>


    ¡°The ring is so shiny!¡±


    ¡°This ring is definitely one-of-a-kind. It must have cost a fortune!¡±


    ¡°If only I could wear something like this one day¡­¡±


    ¡°Well, one can always dream.¡±


    Cameras clicked in quick session.


    Everyone was excited to see such a massive diamond ring up close. Phones shed as photos were taken, shared, and a few people even posed beside Brenna¡¯s hand for pictures.


    Brenna stayed patient, letting herself be part of the excitement, smiling for photos with her coworkers every now and then.


    Stepping into her office, Brenna noticed Thiago lounging in the chair, his feet kicked up on her desk as if he owned the ce.


    ¡°You look like you¡¯re having a good day. There¡¯s something you need to see¡ªcheck your phone,¡± Thiago said, not bothering to move his feet from Brenna¡¯s desk.


    Brenna paid him no mind, sitting down and opening her messages. There, she found a long text from Thiago waiting.


    She read it, and her mood instantly shifted. ¡°Threatening to kill my family? That¡¯s pretty gutsy. Is thising from that organization in Nor-view?¡±


    Thiago nodded. ¡°Right. The Contractor is from Vand, and they¡¯re offering serious money for the job. Dozens of hitmen have already taken the contract. Whoever¡¯s behind this isn¡¯t giving up easily. Who do you think wants you dead?¡±


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    Brenna barely needed to think. Only one name made sense¡ªRosie.


    Lately, Rosie had been acting out of character, dropping her usual bravado and trying a bit too hard to please everyone in the family. She had be almost servile to their grandmother, always apologizing for upsetting their grandfather and ying the part of the misunderstood victim.


    ¡°I¡¯m guessing Rosie,¡± Brenna said, her tone icy as she read the message over and over.


    ¡°You¡¯d better talk to your brother and tighten security,¡± Thiago said. ¡°You can¡¯t afford to let anything catch you off guard.¡±


    ¡°If Rosie crosses the line, I won¡¯t show any mercy this time. I won¡¯t let her get away with it. Without our contacts in the organization, she might have already pulled it off.¡± Brenna found Braeden¡¯s number in her phone and made the call. ¡°Braeden, I¡¯ve run into trouble. I need your help¡­¡±


    ¡°Someone¡¯s bold enough to go after our protected military asset? Don¡¯t worry about a thing. If they set foot in this country, they won¡¯t be walking out alive,¡± Braeden said, his anger barely contained. Most people had no idea, but Brenna¡¯s current role as a military researcher made her an especially protected figure.


    If Brenna hadn¡¯t turned down official protection to avoid attention, the military would have assigned her a security detail.


    Thiago watched in silence as more alerts popped up on his phone. Without a word, he forwarded everything to Brenna.


    .


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 Chapter 1286

    ?Chapter 1286:


    Brenna, in turn, sent the full batch of Thiago¡¯s messages over to Braeden.


    Later, as noon approached and Brenna was about to grab lunch, she opened her office door to find two people standing outside. Both looked professional enough to pass as new hires in thepany.


    One was a woman with cropped hair and dark sunsses. The other was a tall man¡ªeasily over six feet¡ªwith the kind of face that melted into a crowd.


    ¡°Hi, did Braeden send you?¡± Brenna asked, shaking hands with them and inviting them into her office for a quiet word.<fn56fe> The source of th?s content is </fn56fe>


    The man spoke up first. ¡°I¡¯m Finley Ford.¡±


    Next, the woman introduced herself. ¡°I¡¯m Libby Gill.¡±


    Finley continued, ¡°Mr. Foster has already positioned security at your usual spots. We handle this kind of assignment all the time, so you can rx. No one will suspect a thing. From today, we¡¯re your family¡¯s bodyguards, just under new orders from thepany.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, both of you. Let¡¯s get some lunch.¡±


    Libby and Finley stuck close to Brenna as she headed out, blending in seamlessly as if they belonged to the regr staff.


    At the restaurant, while Brenna was choosing her food, Gracie appeared beside her.


    ¡°Miss Harper, happy birthday. I didn¡¯t realize yesterday was your birthday. Sorry I missed it.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s alright,¡± Brenna smiled, but she couldn¡¯t help but notice the gentle curve of Gracie¡¯s belly, even though the rest of her body looked unchanged. Was Gracie expecting a baby?


    Brenna¡¯s lips curved into a sly smile. No wonder Gracie had eased off chasing after Ethan¡ªit seemed she had clearly found someone else.


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    Choosing a seat, Brenna kept her gaze discreetly fixed on Gracie. Other than the faint curve of her belly, there was nothing unusual about Gracie. The small bump was barely visible and could easily go unnoticed unless someone examined her closely.


    At the same table, Joe, Tommy, and Lorna were enjoying their meal. Seated beside Lorna, Brenna leaned in and murmured, ¡°Have you noticed? Gracie looks like she¡¯s got a little belly.¡±


    Lorna¡¯s eyes went wide. ¡°So you saw it too?¡±


    Her nce flicked toward Gracie, who was chatting with several executives at another table. They were too far away to overhear anything.


    ¡°People have been whispering about it for over a week,¡± Lorna admitted. ¡°Apparently, she¡¯s been throwing up almost every morning after getting to the office, and her food¡¯s been nder than usual. Everyone¡¯s starting to suspect that she¡¯s pregnant.¡±


    Brenna gave a small nod. ¡°Any clue who the father is?¡±


    A knowing smile spread across Lorna¡¯s face. ¡°Can¡¯t say for certain, but word is Gracie¡¯s been spending a lot of time with Waldo. Some even im they saw them checking into a hotel together. Odds are, the baby¡¯s his.¡±


    ¡°Interesting. The once-proud CEO of the Wilson Group caught up in a scandal like this. Who would¡¯ve thought?¡± Brenna mused, thinking that Gracie didn¡¯t need to resort to this. Gracie only needed to work properly, and even if she didn¡¯t achieve anything, Ethan would still let her stay in thepany.


    Noticing Brenna¡¯s spark of interest, Lorna asked, ¡°Should we let people know?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll wait for the right time,¡± Brenna replied. She figured it was only fair to give Gracie a taste of her own medicine after all the trouble she¡¯d caused for her.


    ¡°Got it. Leave it to me!¡± Lorna grinned, already confident in her ability to spread news. Herwork reached every level of the Mitchell Group.


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 Chapter 1287

    ?Chapter 1287:


    Feeling pleased, Brenna found the food in front of her even more appetizing.


    ¡°Nice work. You¡¯ll be getting a bonus this month.¡±


    Lorna¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Really? Thank you!¡±


    After dinner, Brenna went back to her office, stretched out on the couch, and closed her eyes for a short rest. Her phone buzzed with a message from Ellie, apanied by a photo of a pregnancy test.


    Ellie followed up with a text. ¡°I think I¡¯m pregnant. Oh my god! What am I supposed to do? I want to make money, not raise a baby.¡±


    Brenna responded, ¡°Wow, that¡¯s a big surprise!¡±


    Ellie shot back, ¡°I don¡¯t want this surprise! A baby will slow down my hustle. I¡¯m thinking of having an abortion.¡±


    ¡°Whatever you decide, I¡¯ll support you,¡± Brenna assured her.


    Ellie replied, ¡°I¡¯m feeling low. Come with me for the prenatal check-up tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s what your husband¡¯s for,¡± Brenna replied.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want him to know yet. I¡¯ll decide first. If I choose to keep it, I¡¯ll tell him then. Until I figure it out, I¡¯m counting on you to apany me!¡± Ellie replied.


    ¡°Alright. Looks like I¡¯ll be a godmother to two babies soon. Yay!¡± Brenna teased in return.


    That evening, when Brenna arrived home, she found the entire family assembled in the dining room for dinner. The table was brimming with an array of mouthwatering dishes, many of them her personal favorites. Shepard slid a folder toward Brenna.


    ¡°I meant to give this to you on your birthday, but the paperwork took a couple of extra days.¡±


    Seeing her father¡¯s bright expression, Brenna epted the folder without much thought and flipped it open.


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    Her eyes widened. ¡°A stock transfer? It¡¯s done already?¡±


    The thrill in her voice was unmistakable. These were the shares that had once belonged to Gracie, and Ernst had bought them. After all the necessary procedures, they were now officially under Brenna¡¯s name.


    Shepard and Ernst exchanged a quick, knowing nce before Shepard spoke.<fn1e54> Original content can be found at FindN0vel</fn1e54>


    ¡°Yes, hold on to them. This way, you¡¯ll have a guaranteed ie every year, giving you financial security for decades. No matter how your ownpany performs, you¡¯ll never have to worry about money. And if Ethan runs the business well, it¡¯ll ensure both you and the next generation livefortably.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s face lit up. ¡°Thank you, Dad. Thank you, Ernst. I¡¯ll dly ept it.¡±


    Just then, the elevator doors opened, and Rosie stepped out with Tessa. Her eyes immediately fell on the folder in Brenna¡¯s hands.


    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± she asked, curiosity evident in her voice.


    Brenna instinctively closed the folder, not nning to let her see it, but Rosie lunged forward, trying to snatch it away. Brenna tightened her grip, unwilling to let go.


    Noticing this, Tessa frowned, assuming Brenna¡¯s family was making things difficult for Rosie again. She cleared her throat and then said, ¡°Brenna, surely it¡¯s fine to let Rosie have a look?¡±


    Reluctantly, Brenna loosened her grip. She wasn¡¯t worried about Rosie learning this, only that the sight of it might spark envy.


    Rosie¡¯s lips curled into a self-satisfied smirk; she was pleased that she had managed to get a peek despite Brenna¡¯s reluctance.


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 Chapter 1288

    ?Chapter 1288:


    But as soon as she flipped the folder open and grasped what she was holding, her expression shifted in an instant. ¡°You bought Gracie¡¯s shares?¡±


    Before going bankrupt, Rosie had been desperate to purchase Gracie¡¯s shares, yet Gracie had tly refused to sell at any price.


    Later, when she heard Gracie had finally let them go, Rosie wondered who could have pressured her into it. Anyone who had acquired the Mitchell Group shares was essentially set for life, financiallyfortable forever. It had never crossed her mind that the buyer would be Brenna.


    Rosie¡¯s face was an open book, her anger etched in every line for all to see. Brenna, catching the storm brewing in Rosie¡¯s expression, said with a spark of defiance, ¡°What¡¯s the issue? Is it so wrong for me to hold these shares?¡±


    Caught off guard, Rosie faltered for a moment before snapping back, her toneced with irritation. ¡°That is not what I meant at all! My question is, does Ethan know you¡¯ve got shares in the Mitchell Group? Word is, he¡¯s been on a mission to reim the shares Gracie held. If you keep them, it might make him upset. He has even proposed to you, don¡¯t you think you should hand them to him?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s lips curled into a wry smile. ¡°You¡¯re awfully concerned for him, aren¡¯t you? But what if I don¡¯t want to give them to him? My father and brother bought these shares legally. Why should I surrender them just because Ethan might want them?¡±<fn1184> For more chapters visit find?novel</fn1184>


    Rosie¡¯s temper red brighter. ¡°You¡¯re about to tie the knot! Shouldn¡¯t you be considering his feelings? How can you be so self-centered?¡±


    With a cool, dismissive chuckle, Brenna countered, ¡°Self-centered? Hardly. These shares are mine, legally acquired. Why should I give them up just to appease him? And how are you so sure he even wants them back?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want them back,¡± Ethan¡¯s voice sliced through the charged atmosphere at that moment, steady and resolute as he strode toward the dining table.


    Rosie froze, a flush of unease creeping over her as if she had been caught red-handed. She hadn¡¯t anticipated Ethan¡¯s arrival tonight and, in a fluster, thrust the document she held toward him. ¡°Ethan, look, they bought shares in yourpany behind your back.¡±


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    Shepard, Ernst, and Giselle exchanged looks of displeasure, sensing Rosie¡¯s attempt to sow discord between Ethan and them. Her recent facade ofpliance, they realized, had been nothing but a charade.


    But they held their tongues, watching the scene unfold, curious about what woulde next.


    Rosie cast a smug nce their way, convinced they had kept Ethan in the dark about the matter. Now that the truth was out, she expected Ethan to turn on Brenna.


    Having known Ethan since childhood, Rosie was well aware of how fiercely he guarded his stake in the Mitchell Group. Even when thepany went public, he had avoided outside investors, choosing instead to grow the business through other avenues.


    ¡°Ethan, they went behind your back to get those shares. Are you going to take them back?¡± Rosie said, certain that Ethan would soon confront Brenna.


    ¡°Why would I take them back? They acquired them legitimately. What grounds do I have to reim the shares?¡± Ethan replied, his tone challenging as he snapped the folder shut and handed it to Brenna.


    He then sat down beside Brenna with a calm smile. ¡°You can keep them. I was actually nning to gift you some shares as a wedding present, though I¡¯m worried it might not be enough.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s jaw dropped, disbelief washing over her. She knew how dearly Ethan valued his shares, yet here he was, utterly unfazed by Brenna holding them and even offering her more.


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 Chapter 1289

    ?Chapter 1289:


    ¡°Ethan, you¡¯re really giving Brenna shares?¡± Rosie asked, incredulous. ¡°Do you realize what that means? With more shares, Brenna could sway thepany¡¯s decisions!¡±


    Ethan didn¡¯t so much as nce at Rosie, fully aware of her motives. ¡°I¡¯m well aware of that,¡± he said coolly. ¡°And I don¡¯t need your reminders.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s spirits sank, utterly deted. Ethan knew the whole truth, yet he was still willing to give more shares to Brenna.


    Why?


    Why was she left empty-handed, forced to w for what should rightfully be hers, while Brenna received everything with such ease?


    The unfairness stung deeply.


    Rosie sank into a chair, casting a nce at Tessa, who, uncharacteristically, held her tongue, as if oblivious to the drama unfolding before her.


    ¡°Let me take care of that for you,¡± Ethan said, slipping on disposable gloves and deftly peeling shrimp for Brenna.


    Brenna¡¯s face lit up with a radiant smile. ¡°Thank you,¡± she replied.


    Ethan sought to put Brenna at ease. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about the shares,¡± he reassured her. ¡°You purchased them fair and square. They¡¯re yours, legally and rightfully. I won¡¯t reim them. Pay no mind to others¡¯ chatter.¡±


    Rosie felt the sting of Ethan¡¯s words, as though they were aimed squarely at her, using her of meddling.


    She felt aggrieved and said, ¡°Ethan, I had no intention of causing harm. I am sorry. It was just a misunderstanding. Please don¡¯t be upset.¡±


    Ethan nodded in response. ¡°Alright.¡± He then set the peeled shrimp on Brenna¡¯s te, sparking a twinge of jealousy in Rosie.


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    Even after years of marriage to Maxley, Rosie had never received such tender care from him. Their union had always been one of practicality, not affection.


    Now, she worked tirelessly, fearing that if she lost her wealth, Maxley would abandon her.


    Ethan¡¯s demeanor remained impassive, showing no sign of softening toward Rosie.


    Desperate, Rosie turned to Brenna, her voice pleading. ¡°Brenna, please don¡¯t be mad. I wasn¡¯t trying to cause trouble. I only spoke out of concern that you might lose those shares someday. I was just looking out for you.¡±


    ¡°Really? It sounds more like you think I don¡¯t deserve them,¡± Brenna replied sharply, her tone cutting through Rosie¡¯s excuses.


    Rosie¡¯s eyes darted to Tessa, who finally broke her silence. ¡°Come now, let¡¯s not bicker over such a trifling matter,¡± Tessa said gently. ¡°Rosie¡¯s already said sorry.¡±


    With a bright tone, Brenna said, ¡°I¡¯ve epted her apology. She should have weighed her words more carefully. Honestly, she never used to be this reckless. I can¡¯t figure out what¡¯s gotten into hertely. Some might say she¡¯s jealous of how well things are going for me.¡±


    A twist of difort ran through Tessa as she caught the sharp edge in Brenna¡¯s voice aimed at Rosie.


    Meeting Brenna¡¯s gaze, Tessa responded firmly, ¡°Rosie¡¯s been through so much, and sometimes, she just says the wrong thing. She¡¯s only looking out for you and trying to steer you clear of trouble. You¡¯ve always had the upper hand as her older cousin and Harper Group¡¯s heiress. Let it go. Don¡¯t make this bigger than it needs to be.¡±


    Tessa¡¯s thoughts drifted to how Brenna always seemed to belittle Rosie, as if she wanted to stand against her at every turn.


    .<fnf888> N?w ?ovel chapt?rs are published on find?novel</fnf888>


    .


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 Chapter 1290

    ?Chapter 1290:


    Not wasting a second, Brenna said, ¡°I hear you, Grandma. I just feel uneasy about her intentions. Even if Rosie meant what she said, I won¡¯t hold it over her head.¡±


    Shepard joined the conversation. ¡°We all get it. Rosie¡¯s dealing with her problems, and she slips up with her words sometimes. There¡¯s no point turning this into something major.¡±


    Rosie sat there, fuming. Her appetite vanished. It felt like everyone had already made up their minds that she was in the wrong.


    Frustration burned inside her, but she kept silent, worried that speaking up would only make things worse. It was so infuriating.


    Morning brought a new day, and Brenna skipped work to visit Ellie¡¯s shop. Brenna soon pulled into the parking lot of Ellie¡¯s newest location. The store was massivepared to the old one and boasted a roomy sewing studio. Ellie concentrated on slicing fabric, her brow knitted with frustration; she looked unhappy with what she was doing.


    ¡°Who are these clothes for?¡± As Brenna wandered through the store, she paused. She saw the shelves crowded with new fabrics and realized Ellie¡¯s order list was growing. There were even a couple of new faces bustling around. Clearly, Ellie had brought on extra help.


    Without missing a beat, Ellie set down her scissors and said, ¡°That¡¯s for Mr. Hall from Plomond. Never mind that. Come on. Let¡¯s get to the hospital.¡± She caught sight of Libby nearby, immediately sensing something unusual about her presence.<fna7e9> The source of th?s content is </fna7e9>


    Ellie pointed her scissors in Libby¡¯s direction. ¡°Who¡¯s that? I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve seen her around before.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s my bodyguard,¡± replied Brenna, keeping her answer short and offering nothing more.


    Ellie chose not to dig deeper. She simply picked up her purse and headed out of the shop with Brenna. As they walked, she remarked, ¡°Your bodyguard looks like she means business.¡±


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    ¡°She seems tough, but I¡¯ve yet to see what she can really do,¡± Brenna shrugged, ncing at Ellie¡¯s stomach. Then, she tossed out a question. ¡°If someone¡¯s belly is just beginning to show and you can tell they¡¯re pregnant, how far along are they?¡±


    That hint of gossip caught Ellie¡¯s attention. ¡°Probably past three months, maybe closer to four. Why, who¡¯s expecting?¡±


    ¡°Gracie,¡± Brenna replied with a nod. ¡°I think she might be pregnant.¡±


    ¡°Wait, didn¡¯t she always chase after Ethan? How¡¯d she end up carrying someone else¡¯s child? Do you know who the father is?¡± Ellie¡¯s eyebrows shot up.


    ¡°No clue. Most folks think it¡¯s Waldo. You met him once, during that tennis game.¡±


    The drive was short, and soon, they reached the hospital.


    Patients filled every seat in the lobby, but Brenna relied on her family¡¯s influence to jump the queue and book Ellie with the hospital¡¯s top obstetrician. There was no denying the reality¡ªEllie¡¯s results showed she was pregnant, nearly six weeks along.


    While Ellie met with the doctor to finish up paperwork, Brenna lingered near the door.


    The obstetrics and gynecology departments sat right next to each other. As Brenna waited, her eyesnded on someone leaving the neighboring room¡ªa figure she recognized in an instant. It was Gracie.


    A man walked alongside Gracie. Although he tried to keep his identity hidden behind a baseball cap and a mask, Brenna recognized him immediately¡ªWaldo. There was no doubt about it now; Gracie really was carrying Waldo¡¯s child.


    Pulling out her phone, Brenna discreetly snapped a few photos. She managed to capture Waldo¡¯s back as he gentlyforted Gracie, who seemed worried and happened to be facing her.


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 Chapter 1291

    ?Chapter 1291:


    Brenna, who was wearing a mask as hospitals are full of germs, managed to avoid being noticed by Gracie. After all, Gracie had never expected to see Brenna in a hospital, let alone in this particr department.


    The moment Gracie nced in her direction, Brenna quietly ducked inside the examination room.


    Brenna kept an eye on the hallway, waiting until she was sure Gracie and Waldo had left. Then, peeking outside, she spotted them strolling towards the elevator.


    ¡°Libby, follow those two. Let¡¯s find out what they¡¯re nning. If they¡¯re headed for an abortion, get some photos for me,¡± Brenna instructed without hesitation.


    Libby rolled her eyes but agreed. ¡°Alright. Finley, you stay put and watch over things.¡±


    Finley nodded. ¡°Miss Harper, did that woman cross you somehow?¡±


    Brenna didn¡¯t bother hiding her intentions. ¡°She did, actually. I¡¯m thinking about leaking a little gossip about her¡ªmaybe even the abortion story.¡±


    Finley let out augh. ¡°I dabble in hacking, you know. Want me to help out?¡±


    With a sly grin, Brenna answered, ¡°No, thanks. My assistant is more than capable of handling the matter.¡±


    In the hallway outside the fifth-floor abortion room, a polished woman in her thirties, dressed in a crisp white suit and bold makeup, strode forward with confidence, clutching a luxury handbag. A group of burly men, clearly bodyguards, trailed closely behind.


    Gracie, clinging to Waldo¡¯s arm, led the way to the front of the line. They knocked on the door, ready to step inside.


    ¡°Abortion room?¡± the woman hissed, her voice thick with fury. ¡°You never learn, do you, Waldo? Barely a few months since that college girl incident, and you¡¯re already tangled up with another woman!¡±


    She rolled up her sleeves, stormed forward, and without a word, ripped Gracie¡¯s hat off, tossing it to the floor before grabbing her hair. ¡°You shameless homewrecker! You dare seduce my husband and get pregnant with his child?¡±


    Caught off guard, Gracie wasn¡¯t prepared for the sudden violence. She was yanked down, crashing hard onto the floor with a thud, clutching her abdomen as pain seared through her. ¡°My belly, what do you think you are doing?¡± she screamed.


    Waldo, equally stunned, only realized what was happening when Gracie hit the floor. Turning, he saw his wife sitting on Gracie, pping her face with unrestrained rage.


    ¡°You think you can steal my husband and bear his child? All you do is prey on married men! I¡¯ll make you regret it!¡± his wife spat.


    ¡°H-Honey¡­¡± Waldo stammered, panic rising. This wasn¡¯t his first time being caught cheating¡ªhe had faced his wife¡¯s wrath before, each time enduring brutal consequences.


    As a powerfulpany executive with a substantial stake in thepany, Dorsey held all the cards. If not for that, Waldo would have divorced her long ago.


    Drawing on experience, he quickly deflected.


    ¡°It was her! She seduced me, chasing my money. I¡¯m not to me, honey!¡±<fn66ba> Find the newest release on findnovel</fn66ba>


    ¡°Shut it!¡± Dorsey Chapman, Waldo¡¯s wife, snapped, shoving him aside. She knew exactly what kind of man Waldo was. ¡°Get out of my way! You¡¯re just as bad. What are you standing there for? Beat these two senseless for me!¡±


    At hermand, her bodyguards closed in, punching Waldo until he copsed, howling in pain.


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 Chapter 1292

    ?Chapter 1292:


    ¡°Honey, I swear I won¡¯t do it again! Please, we¡¯re in public¡ªhave some mercy; leave me some dignity!¡± Waldo begged through his cries.


    But Dorsey¡¯s eyes burned with loathing. ¡°Make sure he can¡¯t father any more children!¡±


    Rising from Gracie¡¯s abdomen, she mmed down repeatedly, blood pooling beneath Gracie, who was too weak to beg anymore. Still unsatisfied, Dorsey began tearing at Gracie¡¯s clothes.<fnc9fb> Discover more novels at find?novel</fnc9fb>


    ¡°You shameless bitch! I¡¯ll show you what happens when you seduce another woman¡¯s husband.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not my fault¡ªWaldo pursued me!¡± Gracie protested faintly.


    Dorsey scoffed, unconvinced. ¡°Save your lies. You¡¯re both to me.¡±


    She ripped Gracie¡¯s clothes further, exposing her ample chest.


    Libby grinned as he filmed the scene on his phone, zooming in on the most humiliating moments.


    Waldo fared no better. Dorsey, seeing Gracie near death, turned her fury on him. Curled up on the floor, Waldo shielded himself with his arms, a familiar stance for someone used to beatings.


    ¡°Destroy him!¡± Dorsey ordered coldly. ¡°He¡¯s always stirring up trouble. Better to end his ability to make bastards who will challenge my kids for their inheritance.¡±


    The bodyguards quickly pinned Waldo down, holding his legs in ce. Sensing the imminent danger, Waldo pleaded desperately, ¡°Honey, please! I¡¯m your husband! If you do this, you¡¯re ruining things for yourself, too. We¡¯re married¡ªdon¡¯t do this. I swear I¡¯ll never cheat again. She is only after my money! Beat her to death if you must; just spare me!¡±


    Gracie, sprawled on the floor, couldn¡¯t move. Despair washed over her. She had nned to marry Waldo before. Hadn¡¯t he said he was single? Who was this woman iming to be his wife?


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    Gracie¡¯s blood drained rapidly, her strength fading, and life itself seemed meaningless to her at that moment.


    Dorsey stepped forward, raising her foot to deliver a brutal stomp to Waldo¡¯s groin.


    ¡°Hurry, get her inside for emergency treatment!¡± Brenna, satisfied that Gracie had learned her lesson, stepped out from the crowd and summoned the doctors and nurses to attend to her.


    Gracie felt a cool sensation on her chest and saw Brenna standing over her.


    Instinctively, she tried to cover herself, but she was too weak to do so.


    Brenna retrieved Gracie¡¯s hat from the floor and draped it over her chest. ¡°Don¡¯t worry; you¡¯ll pull through.¡± As Brenna spoke, the medical staff tried to whisk Gracie away.


    Gracie was afraid that the humiliating scene at the hospital would spread like wildfire through thepany.


    Clutching Brenna¡¯s sleeve, she pleaded faintly, ¡°Please¡­ don¡¯t tell anyone at work about this¡­¡±


    Her voice was frail, and she wasn¡¯t sure if Brenna heard her.


    But Dorsey overheard her, her voice cutting through sharply, ¡°You think you can keep this disgrace quiet? I¡¯ll make sure everyone knows exactly what you did!¡± Meanwhile, doctors tended to Waldo, who was still crumpled on the floor.


    Gracie, overwhelmed by despair, wished she could die. Why was she so unlucky? Ethan had rejected her, so she had set her sights on Waldo, nning to marry him in a year or two. Her wealth made her a catch, or so she thought. But Waldo had lied¡ªhe was married with kids, not the single man he imed to be.


    Gracie fainted as people wheeled her into surgery.


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 Chapter 1293

    ?Chapter 1293:


    Libby approached Brenna, showing her his phone. ¡°Got it all on video. Pretty brutal.¡±


    Brenna nced at the footage, pleased. ¡°Nice work. Send it to me, and I¡¯ll pass it to Lorna.¡±


    Libby grinned. ¡°No need; I¡¯ll send it straight to her. Don¡¯t worry. No one will trace it back to us.¡±


    Finley, eyeing Waldo¡¯s beaten form, clicked his tongue. ¡°That looks painful.¡±


    ¡°Why are you still here?¡± Ellie asked Brenna. She had watched the scene with cold detachment, believing Gracie had gotten what she deserved.


    Brenna lingered by the surgery room door, exining to Ellie, ¡°Gracie has no family or friends. If someone¡¯s footing her medical bills, it would be Ethan, and I don¡¯t want him¡­¡±


    Hearing her sob story, Brenna replied, ¡°I¡¯ll cover the bills and hire a nurse. It¡¯s no trouble; I just want to keep her away from my boyfriend.¡±


    Ellie shook her head. ¡°She¡¯s pregnant with another man¡¯s kid, came here for an abortion, and got thrashed by his wife. If I were her, I would be too mortified to tell the person I like about the matter. I¡¯d get treated quietly and go back to work like nothing happened. Why bother with her? You¡¯re being too kind.¡±


    Brenna nodded, then wired money to Libby. ¡°Pay her bills and get a caregiver for her.¡±


    Libby agreed without hesitation, following her orders. ¡°Got it.¡±


    As they left the hospital, Ellie turned to Brenna again. ¡°Why waste your time helping Gracie? She won¡¯t thank you for it.¡±


    Brenna shrugged. ¡°I¡¯m not after her gratitude. I just want her to stay away from Ethan. I¡¯m not that selfless¡ªthe more trouble she¡¯s in, the better.¡±<fnd2fa> Updates are released by F¦Énd£Îovel</fnd2fa>


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    After dropping Ellie at her shop, Brenna headed back to thepany. Moments after arriving, she received a message from Isabe with several photos.


    The photos showed Mack frequenting bars and clubs, partying with women.


    Brenna asked, ¡°Is he going to such ces every day?¡±


    Isabe replied, ¡°Pretty much. He has moved out on his own. I¡¯ve paid some women at the bars to snap pictures whenever he shows up. These are from thest two weeks¡ªI¡¯ve got more. I¡¯ll send them all to you.¡±


    Brenna responded, ¡°He is facing the consequences he deserves.¡±


    Isabe sent additional photos, some explicit, including shots of Mack having sex with women in private rooms. Brenna could barely stomach them.


    Isabe then asked, ¡°Brenna, can I get reimbursed for what I paid the women at the bars?¡±


    She included screenshots of the transactions.


    Brenna generously transferred double the amount to her, ensuring Isabe was wellpensated while keeping tabs on the Barrett family.


    ¡°Let me know where he¡¯s going tonight, and I¡¯ll check it out,¡± Brenna added.


    Isabe replied, ¡°Okay. I¡¯ll send the address to you soon.¡±


    Staring at the fifty-thousand-dor transfer, Isabe saw a bright future in working for Brenna. Monitoring the Barretts wouldn¡¯tst forever, but she nned to milk it while it did. Her legitimate job was booming, too¡ªhermissions this month had doubled from thest.


    She had already resolved to prioritize her career and not rely on men for her livelihood from now on.


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1294

    ?Chapter 1294:


    As the workday drew to a close, Isabe sent Brenna a photo of Mack entering a bar called Above the Clouds, along with its location.


    After work, Brenna had Finley drive her to the ce.


    The bar exuded sophistication, with soft lighting casting a warm glow. A soulful singer¡¯s voice blended with the low hum of elegant music, while a charismatic bartender deftly crafted drinks.


    Brenna, nked by Libby and Finley, made her way to the bar counter, where a disy of premium liquors lined the shelves, each bottle carrying a price tag far out of reach for an ordinary person.


    She nced at herpanions. ¡°What do you want to drink?¡±


    Libby scanned the menu, her eyes widening at the prices¡ªeach cocktail cost at least a grand, well beyond her modest paycheck. Luckily, Brenna was footing the bill. ¡°Something not too expensive is fine,¡± Libby said, keeping her tone casual.<fn4f3e> Content originallyes from find[?]ovel</fn4f3e>


    Finley, meanwhile, studied the array of bottles, spotting several prestigiousbels he had only heard about, never sampled. But he reminded himself that his job was to keep Brenna safe, not to sip fancy liquor.


    ¡°Anything works for me,¡± he muttered, though his eyes lingered on a bottle of aged rum.


    Brenna ordered a rum cocktail, a shot of tequ, and a ss of whiskey.


    After that, Finley chose a seat with a clear view of the room, staying vignt.


    Brenna¡¯s attention was already fixed on Mack.


    He wore a ck shirt, unbuttoned at the top, exposing a broad chest smeared with lipstick, including a smudge on his neck. Beside him sat a wealthy woman in her fifties, her hands wandering boldly under his shirt as he poured drinks for her.


    ¡°Who would have guessed he would sink this low?¡± Brenna said, reclining on the booth¡¯s plush couch, legs crossed, observing Mack with a mix of amusement and disdain.


    New chapters avable g?ln¦Ò¦Í??ls


    Libby sensed Brenna was here to watch the drama unfold and disliked Mack.


    ¡°Should I stir up some trouble for him?¡± Libby asked, half-joking.


    Brenna shook her head, her voice cool. ¡°No need. I¡¯m just here to watch him reap what he has sown.¡±


    The woman next to Mack, grinning slyly, pulled a small stic bag from her purse. ¡°Let¡¯s make this fun,¡± she said, dropping a blue pill from the bag into his drink.


    It fizzed and dissolved rapidly.


    ¡°Pauline, isn¡¯t this a bit much for a ce like this?¡± Mack objected, his tone uneasy.


    Pauline Watts¡¯ expression soured. ¡°What is this? I pay you generously, and you can¡¯t keep me entertained? You balk at a little something to spice up the night? If you¡¯re going to be this difficult, why would I bother with you again? I picked you for your skills in bed and charm, and I¡¯ve given you a lot of money, so don¡¯t act unappreciative now.¡±


    She pushed the drink toward his lips.


    Mack hesitated but caved. Earlier, Pauline had slipped him twenty grand, and refusing might mean losing it¡ªor worse, missing out on more.


    ¡°Alright, don¡¯t be upset,¡± he said, forcing a smile as he gulped the drink. A rush hit him instantly, urging him to dance, sing, or shed his clothes.


    Though the booth¡¯s high backrest partially obscured her view, Brenna¡¯s elevated seat gave her a clear line of sight of the scene.


    Mack, now buzzing with energy, said to Pauline, ¡°Let¡¯s hit a private room¡ªI can¡¯t wait any longer.¡±


    Pauline smirked, pleased. ¡°Now that¡¯s more like it. I¡¯ve got some new toys to try out today. Let¡¯s try them one by one.¡±


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1295

    ?Chapter 1295:


    Mack draped his arm around Pauline, and they headed upstairs to a private suite, disappearing from Brenna¡¯s view. Finley trailed them discreetly, recording their every move.


    ¡°Did you get it all?¡± Brenna asked when Finley returned.


    Finley nodded. ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s all on video. The moment they stepped into that room, things got intense. You probably don¡¯t want to watch it.¡±


    ¡°Send it to Alec directly,¡± Brenna said, a sly grin crossing her face. She had gone to all this trouble, and she wasn¡¯t about to leave without enjoying some drama.


    Alec, stuck on night duty in the security office, was idly swiping through his phone when a message from an unknown number popped up. Assuming it could be Rosie using a new number, he tapped on the message.


    His expression twisted with fury when he watched the video.


    The footage revealed Mack and a heavyset woman, making out and shedding clothes with reckless abandon.


    Once inside the room, Mack stripped bare, putting on a brazen show for the woman.


    It was truly an eyesore.


    ¡°Shameless! So this is why he¡¯s always pulling night shifts; he is a male escort now. What a disgrace!¡± Alec spat.


    He tore off his security uniform, threw on his regr clothes, and asked a coworker to cover his shift for him. Without hesitation, he sped off to the bar.<fn44c6> Latest content published on find(?)ovel</fn44c6>


    Brenna barely waited an hour before Alec stormed into the bar.


    Alec had memorized the room number from the video. Without asking for directions, he went straight up to the third floor.


    Alec shoved the door open and was met with a scene he wished he hadn¡¯t witnessed¡ªMack tangled up with a woman, the pounding music making the walls vibrate.


    Exclusive updates g¦Ál¦Ç¦Ò¦Í??s.c?m


    Mack lookedpletely out of it, moving with wild, clumsy energy, while the woman seemed to be having the time of her life. She urged him, ¡°Harder! Faster! You¡¯re doing amazing!¡±


    Alec stood just behind the pair. Neither of them even nced his way, too wrapped up in what they were doing to notice him.


    Heat rushed to Alec¡¯s face, and he left the room, shutting the door as quietly as possible.


    He lingered in the hallway, figuring they¡¯d be finished soon. When Mack failed to appear, Alec cracked the door again¡ªonly to find the same shameless disy continuing without pause.


    ¡°Disgraceful!¡± Alec muttered angrily, but he knew better than to interrupt.


    Furious, he stormed off.


    Humiliation burned through him.


    His own son¡ªreduced to selling himself for women¡¯s pleasure.


    His pride took the blow like a punch to the gut.


    How had his parenting led to this?


    Storming out of the bar, Alec didn¡¯t look back.


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1296

    ?Chapter 1296:


    From across the room, Brenna spotted him leaving in a rush. ¡°That was quick. He didn¡¯t cause a scene?¡±


    Finley had trailed after Alec earlier and returned a few minutester.


    ¡°He walked in, took one look, and walked out,¡± said Finley. ¡°Couldn¡¯t stomach the sight of his son being an escort.¡±


    Brenna frowned with mild disappointment. She¡¯d been hoping for a spectacle.


    When the next morning rolled around, Brenna entered thepany building for work, scanning the area for Alec, but he was nowhere to be found. The only familiar face was Emil Brown, who often worked alongside Alec.


    ¡°Emil,e here,¡± Brenna called, curiosity sparking.


    Emil approached her quickly. ¡°Mr. Harper, do you need something?¡± he asked politely.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Alec?¡± Brenna questioned.


    Emil knew Alec¡¯s rtionship with Brenna. He¡¯d bragged to the other guards that she was his daughter, and they¡¯d often caught him trying to get closer to her, assuming his ims were true. So, while Alec had no official rank in security management, his influence over the guards far outweighed that of the actual head guard or manager.<fnb65d> Follow current nov?ls on F¦Énd£Îovel</fnb65d>


    Emil said, ¡°He was meant to be workingst night, but he went out instead. When he came back, he was in a rage and wouldn¡¯t say why. Later that night, he just copsed¡ªeyes wide open. We rushed him to the hospital. I only got back now to pass my shift to the next guard.¡±


    Brenna believed that fate was finally dealing Alec the punishment he deserved. She even hoped he¡¯d die.


    To Emil and the rest of the guards, it had always been clear that Brenna held Alec in low regard. If she respected him, she would never have let her adoptive father work as a security guard. They teased him often, though none dared to push him far enough to provoke a real fight.


    Explore magic at g?ln¦Ò¦Í????s£®c????


    ¡°So, how is he now?¡± Brenna asked while pulling out her phone, ready to call Isabe.


    Emil gave a dryugh. ¡°He¡¯s alive, but only just. The doctor said he had a massive stroke. His mouth hangs to one side, his eyes can¡¯t focus, and his wordse out all garbled. He¡¯s basically paralyzed now. He¡¯ll even need someone to feed him. It¡¯s quite tragic, if you ask me.¡±


    ¡°I see,¡± Brenna replied tly, already deciding that living was far too lenient an oue for Alec.


    Even so, the idea of him trapped in bed with no one willing to care for him had its appeal.


    She doubted Alec wouldst long without help.


    Back in her office, Brenna, too distracted to focus on work, called Isabe.


    The hospital noise bled through the receiver before Isabe spoke. ¡°Brenna, maybe you haven¡¯t heard yet, but you don¡¯t need to worry about Alec anymore.¡±


    Brenna didn¡¯t bother hiding her satisfaction. ¡°Tell me, how bad is it?¡±


    ¡°He is paralyzed,¡± Isabe said. ¡°His mouth hangs open, he drools, and he can barely get words out. My mom¡¯s the one sitting with him right now.¡±


    ¡°Did she remarry him?¡± Brenna asked.


    She thought that if Ruby remarried, her days would be consumed with tending to a paralyzed husband, her life bound to the unending demands of his care. If they didn¡¯t remarry, Alec would be left all alone, with no one to stand by him.


    ¡°No, she didn¡¯t,¡± Isabe replied.


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1297

    ?Chapter 1297:


    Ruby¡¯s voice yelped in the background, ¡°You¡¯ve wet the bed again? Disgusting! I¡¯m done with this. Somebody else can take care of you! We¡¯re not even married, Alec¡ª¡±


    On the bed, Alec made a muffled noise, his words lost in slurs. His left hand¡ªhis only working hand¡ªsmacked the sheets weakly. His gaze pleaded for sympathy.


    Ruby mmed the lunchbox she had been holding down, snatched her bag, and stormed out of the room.


    Tears streamed down Alec¡¯s face, though his gaze was filled with resentment. The moment Ruby reached the corridor, she turned to Isabe and said, ¡°I can¡¯t believe my luck. I finally find a man who can take care of me, and he ends up paralyzed. Let¡¯s get out of his ce, Isabe. We¡¯ll rent somewhere for ourselves.¡±


    Isabe ended the call, unable to continue the conversation with Brenna. Through the narrow opening in the door, she caught sight of Alec still causing amotion. The faint stench drifting out made her m the door shut, her stomach turning in disgust.


    ¡°Mom, you can¡¯t just leave.¡± Isabe had zero interest in looking after Alec. Shetched onto Ruby¡¯s arm.<fn6e08> Newest update provided by f?ndnovel</fn6e08>


    Ruby gave a sharp, mockingugh. Her irritation was in to see. ¡°Why? I didn¡¯t remarry him. He has nothing to do with me now.¡±


    Pulling Ruby farther from the door, Isabe lowered her voice. ¡°Don¡¯t forget. Dad owns a house worth millions. Judging by how he looks, he¡¯s not going tost much longer. If you stick around and look after him, that house will end up yours.¡±


    Ruby had no home of her own. Her son had moved out and never once returned, ignoring every call she made. To him, she was probably nothing but a burden.


    For months, Isabe hadn¡¯t given her a single cent beyond grocery money, which had sparked endless arguments between them.


    Updates always live at gal¦Ç¦Òv??ls


    Now that Alec was sick, leaving would mean she had nowhere to go.


    ¡°You¡¯ve got a point,¡± Ruby admitted. ¡°But you¡¯re his daughter. You should be helping take care of him, too. He¡¯s spent so much on treatment, and I can¡¯t afford to keep supporting him. You¡¯ll have to handle the bills.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll pay for the bills,¡± Isabe replied. ¡°Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    Ruby gave a curt nod. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll go after him for the sake of that house, but the medical bills are on you.¡±


    With little enthusiasm, Ruby went back inside the hospital room and immediately unleashed her temper on Alec.


    ¡°Pathetic. A grown man wetting the bed. Aren¡¯t you embarrassed?¡± Frustrated, Ruby pulled the thin nket off him and shoved Alec onto his side.


    Fighting the urge to gag, she cleaned the mess while scolding him nonstop. Alec had been in the hospital for two days, yet Mack hadn¡¯t shown his face once. Ruby had called him repeatedly, but he had ignored every attempt.


    ¡°What a heartless son. His father¡¯s lying here in this state, and he can¡¯t even be bothered to visit. I thought he¡¯d at least chip in some money.¡± Two full days had passed, and neither her son nor her daughter had shown any concern for Alec. Ruby was stuck.


    Caring for him alone, and the longer it went on, the more Ruby felt like she was being yed for a fool.


    Her whole body ached from the constant work.


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1298

    ?Chapter 1298:


    ¡°If it weren¡¯t for that house you own, I wouldn¡¯t waste my time here,¡± Ruby muttered. Another sour smell drifted over, making her frown. ¡°Did you soil yourself again?¡±


    Alec let out a string of broken sounds, his face twisted with frustration. He couldn¡¯t speak clearly, but every word Ruby said reached him.


    The moment Ruby confessed she was only sticking around for the house, a wave of anger surged through him.


    ¡°Get¡­ out!¡± The words came out slow but sharp.


    Ruby narrowed her eyes. ¡°dly! Let¡¯s see who¡¯s left to take care of you then!¡±


    Just then, a nurse stepped into the room. ¡°Your hospital and treatment fees have been overdue for two days. Which family member is responsible for payment?¡±


    She walked toward Ruby, holding out the payment slip.


    Ruby didn¡¯t even nce at it. ¡°Not my problem. I¡¯m not paying a cent.¡±


    Grabbing her bag, she strode right out of the room.


    The nurse looked over at Alec, recalling that his daughter had only shown up once, on the day he had fallen ill, and never returned. His son hadn¡¯t appeared at all.


    ¡°You¡¯ll need to settle the bill soon, or we¡¯ll have to discharge you,¡± the nurse said to Alec.


    Tears slid down Alec¡¯s cheeks as he reached for his phone and held it out to her. ¡°Call¡­ Call¡­¡±


    The nurse waited while Alec¡¯s trembling fingers tapped in the code to unlock the phone before taking it.<fn0fd5> Discover more novels at Find[?]ovel</fn0fd5>


    She found the contact saved under his son¡¯s name and pressed dial.


    After a long wait, no one answered.


    Your new favorite stories are at g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s


    Switching to his daughter¡¯s number didn¡¯t help. No one picked up, either. ¡°If the bill isn¡¯t paid, you¡¯ll have to be discharged,¡± the nurse said tly before handing the phone back and walking out.


    When Ruby got home, she tried calling Isabe, but the call went unanswered. Her n had been to pack up and move in with her daughter, especially since relying on her son was out of the question.


    A sinking feeling crept into her chest. ¡°Did Isabe run off? Is she cutting me off, too?¡±


    She tried again and again, but Isabe ignored every call.


    ¡°I¡¯ll demand answers when shees home tonight,¡± Ruby muttered. ¡°What is she thinking? I¡¯m her mother! She¡¯s supposed to take care of me!¡±


    Just then, a sudden thought jolted her into action. She hurried to Isabe¡¯s room, only to find that Isabe¡¯s belongings were all gone.


    ¡°Ungrateful brat!¡± she shouted into the vacant space. ¡°Leave your father if you want, but me? If you ever set foot back here, I¡¯ll teach you a lesson!¡±


    Fueled by rage, Ruby tore through Isabe¡¯s room searching for money but came up empty-handed.


    Checking her bank ount only made her mood worse. If she left Alec¡¯s ce, she¡¯d have to work hard and waste her money on rent¡ªa life she refused to ept.


    Grudgingly, she went back to the hospital.


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1299

    ?Chapter 1299:


    ¡°I¡¯m not paying for your treatment,¡± she snapped at Alec. ¡°You¡¯ve got some savings, use them. If you don¡¯t, I¡¯ll stop looking after you altogether.¡±


    Ruby¡¯s grip mped tightly around Alec¡¯s wrist as she forced his hand toward the phone to enter the unlock code.


    Rage burned in Alec¡¯s chest. His savings were barely enough to get by, and the thought of handing them over to Ruby was uneptable. He knew she¡¯d only make his life harder if she got her hands on his money.


    Ruby¡¯s eyes narrowed with venom. ¡°So, you¡¯re really not going to give me the money? Fine, starve to death then. Tell me, who else in this world would even bother with you anymore except me? You¡¯ve been lying here for a whole day and night without a bite. I bet you¡¯re about ready to chew your own arm off now.¡±


    Since Ruby stormed out just before noon the day before, no one had bothered to check on Alec. Hunger gnawed at him relentlessly, and he was sitting in his own waste. The foul smell made his stomach turn.


    Not one of his children had shown their face. He¡¯d called them again and again, but no one answered. Rosie had also ignored his calls.


    It finally hit him. Family couldn¡¯t be trusted, and neither could the children he¡¯d once counted on.


    Ruby stood over his bed with her arms folded, staring down at him. She might have been cold and sharp-tongued, but at least she¡¯d shown up.


    ¡°I¡¯ll give the money to you¡­¡± Alec¡¯s voice cracked as he gave in. If he didn¡¯t do this, he¡¯d starve, and it was only a matter of hours before the hospital kicked him out for not paying his bills.


    ¡°That¡¯s what I thought. Now listen¡ªhand over everyst cent, and sign the house over to me. If you don¡¯t, I¡¯m done taking care of you,¡± Ruby said.


    Tears spilled down Alec¡¯s face, soaking his pillow. He¡¯d spent his whole life plotting and wing for advantage, only to end up in this pathetic state. Fortunately, Ruby cleaned up his mess, changed his bedding, and put him in a diaper.


    Discover more content at galnov??????.c??m


    She even fed him a meal.<fnd9dc> Chapters first released on Find1Novel</fnd9dc>


    When Ruby opened Alec¡¯s ount and saw a million sitting there, her temper red.


    So, he¡¯d been hiding money from her. And not just pocket change, real money. She wasn¡¯t about to let him keep a dime now.


    Without wasting another second, she transferred everyst cent into her own ount and shoved the phone at Alec for facial recognition.


    Alec opened his mouth to object, his words slurred. But Ruby knew what he was trying to say. He didn¡¯t want her to take all his money.


    ¡°All of your money is mine, you hear me? Every cent. If you don¡¯t give it to me, you might as well get ready to die. No one¡¯s going to feed you. No one¡¯s going to clean you up,¡± Ruby said with venom, shoving the phone in his face to catch the scan.


    Alec tried twisting his head to the side, refusing to meet the camera, but the fight drained out of him. In the end, he allowed the transfer.


    Just like that, over a million was gone from his ount and sittingfortably in Ruby¡¯s, leaving him stripped of everything.


    Ruby, satisfied with the extra money in her ount, was now in a good mood. She ordered the dish Alec loved most and took her time feeding it to him. Even as he chewed, Alec¡¯s mind was restless. A gnawing fear told him Ruby would take the money and vanish, leaving him to wait for his death.


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 Chapter 1300

    Chapter 1300:


    Yet, Ruby stayed. By the afternoon, she¡¯d settled his medical bills, cleared the hospital charges, and arranged for him to be taken home.


    Isabe didn¡¯t visit Alec in the hospital, but she secretly checked on him every day, taking photos and sending them to Brenna.


    When Brenna saw thetest set of photos, a smirk tugged at her lips. Alec had gone to that bar intending to deal with Mack, and now here he was, broken and humiliated. Every ounce of her effort felt worth it.


    Just then, another message from Isabe lit up her phone, this one showing Ruby wheeling Alec into his own house.


    ¡°Well done,¡± Brenna replied.


    Then, she transferred twenty thousand to Isabe.


    Soft knocks sounded at the door before Lorna stepped in, carrying a tter of neatly arranged fruits. She set it down on Brenna¡¯s desk and said, ¡°Ms. Harper, those photos of Gracie are all over thepany chat now. The ones from her hospital mess were leaked from somewhere else, nothing that could be traced back to us.¡±


    The news brightened Brenna¡¯s mood even more. ¡°Has Gracie shown up for work today?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Lorna replied with a shake of her head. ¡°ni says Gracie is taking a full week off and won¡¯t be back until next Monday. But I¡¯ve heard Waldo¡¯s project ran into trouble, so she mighte in sooner to fix it.¡±


    ¡°Alright. Tell me the second shees to thepany,¡± Brenna instructed. Lorna left the office, and Brenna¡¯s phone buzzed almost immediately. Darwin¡¯s name appeared on the screen.


    ¡°Got time tonight? Let¡¯s get dinner,¡± Darwin said once Brenna picked up. He¡¯d long since stopped pursuing her and treated her more like a trusted friend now. Brenna valued Darwin¡¯s presence. He was thoughtful, knew when to push and when to pull.


    M??? ?¦Ñ?¦Á??? ?? ?¦Á??¦Ò¦Í???.?¦Ò?


    Back, and, best of all, hiswork gave him ess to information she could never get on her own.


    ¡°Alright, you choose the ce,¡± she agreed.


    The moment the call with Darwin ended, Brenna¡¯s phone lit up once more, and to her surprise, Alec¡¯s name appeared on the screen.


    She didn¡¯t want to answer the call. Old memories rushed back¡ªnights spent hunched over sketches, the sharp sting of Alec¡¯s punishments, the hunger when he¡¯d deliberately kept food from her. Those moments were etched too deeply to fade.


    Now, she believed that every ounce of misery Alec was enduring was karma.


    Ruby had taken Alec back to the house, setting him up in the guest bedroom that once belonged to Mack, while Ruby made herselffortable in the master bedroom.<fna723> ??? ????? ???????s ??? ?????s??? ?? Find¡ïNovel</fna723>


    When Ruby came back from the supermarket and finished putting away the groceries, she decided to check in on him.


    Only his good hand was in use, clutching his phone like it was hisst lifeline, his eyes locked on the glowing screen.


    Ruby crossed the room in quick strides, snatched the phone from his grip, and noticed he had been trying to call Brenna. A dryugh escaped her, sharp and mocking. Instead of hanging up the call, she just tossed the phone back into his hand. ¡°So this is your grand n? You¡¯re hoping that Brenna will help you?¡± she mocked.


    .


    .


    .<hr>


    Message from Noah: New novel releases in a few hours, have a great evening dear readers. God loves you and Noah wishes you all the best. (¤Å ? _?)¤Å?


    .

 Chapter 1301

    ?Chapter 1301:


    Alec¡¯s voice rasped in broken bursts. ¡°You¡­ hurt¡­ me¡­ I¡¯ll¡­ make¡­ Brenna¡­e¡­¡±


    Even with his words mangled, Ruby caught his meaning. Her lips curled in disgust as she shot back, ¡°Did it slip your mind that she mmed the door in our faces when we begged her for help after the bankruptcy? Yet, you are still putting your hope on her? If she cared, she¡¯d be here by now.¡±


    Then, she thought of something. She snatched the phone again, noticing the call hadn¡¯t gone through, and swiped through the log. The evidence was there¡ªhe¡¯d tried over a dozen times, each one ignored.


    ¡°Ha! What did I tell you? Pathetic. You¡¯ve forgotten how you treated her before, haven¡¯t you? Don¡¯t think that she wille to help you. That¡¯s not happening. For all you know, she might be the reason you¡¯re lying here now!¡±


    Alec¡¯s cheeks flushed with rage as he jabbed a trembling finger at her. ¡°You¡­ You¡¯ll pay¡­ She¡­ won¡¯t¡­ let you¡­ get away¡­¡±


    Ruby only smiled, nting her hands on her hips. ¡°Oh, please. If she wanted to get rid of me, I¡¯d already be gone. Look at me¡ªI¡¯m still standing right here.¡± Tired of the same curses spilling from him, she shoved the phone into his face. ¡°Go on then. Continue to call her. Let¡¯s see if she picks up.¡±


    Earlier, Ruby had tried reaching Mack on her way back, but he hadn¡¯t picked up. Isabe, on the other hand, had picked up her call and told her she had rented a ce of her own, wouldn¡¯t being home, and expected Ruby to take care of Alec herself.


    That was the end of the conversation.


    By the time Ruby ended the call, anger burned in her chest. When she needed Isabe¡¯s help, she had run off.


    She had raised two ungrateful children!


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    Fueled by fury, Ruby snatched up whatevery within reach and struck Alec again and again, just like how he had onceshed out at Brenna.


    Agonized cries tore from Alec¡¯s throat, yet no one came to his rescue. Angry red welts bloomed across his face and arms where her blows hadnded.


    Each hit came with venomced words from Ruby.<fn38ee> ?? ??? ???? ?? ???? ???? ???????s, ????s? ??s?? ?ovelFind</fn38ee>


    ¡°This is on you! If you hadn¡¯t trapped Brenna at home, forcing her to work for you instead of going to school, if you hadn¡¯t beaten her down every chance you got, we wouldn¡¯t be here now! You brought this on us! The Harper family ruined us because of you!¡±


    ¡°Help¡­ someone¡­ Help¡­¡± Alec gasped.


    Exhausted from hitting him, Ruby finally sat down to rest.


    Later that evening, Thiago arrived home to find Ellie and Patrick curled up on the couch, the television flickering with bright cartoon colors. From the kitchen drifted the scent of dinner as the chef busied himself.


    Patrick ran over and wrapped his arms around Thiago. ¡°Dad! Did you bring me something fun today?¡±


    A grin spread across Thiago¡¯s face as he ced a box on the floor with a soft thump. ¡°Your godmother just invented a new robot dog. I got you one¡ªyou can y with it.¡±


    With a squeal of excitement, Patrick left to unpack the box.


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1302

    ?Chapter 1302:<fn8f57> This update is avable on F?ndNovel</fn8f57>


    Thiago moved toward Ellie, drew a single rose from inside his jacket, and offered it to her. ¡°For my beautiful, hardworking wife,¡± he said, brushing her lips with a kiss before settling beside her. ¡°Had a long day?¡±


    ¡°Not at all.¡± Ellie¡¯s tone was light, almost buoyant. She¡¯d made up her mind to keep the baby. After all, Patrick wasn¡¯t Thiago¡¯s flesh and blood. Though Thiago cared deeply for Patrick, she understood his yearning for a child of his own. She lifted the rose to her nose, closing her eyes briefly as she breathed in its fragrance.


    A sudden ringtone sounded from her handbag near Thiago.


    ¡°Could you pass me my phone, honey?¡± Ellie asked.


    With a soft smile, Thiago reached into the bag and retrieved the phone for Ellie. While she began speaking to someone on the other end of the line, his attention wandered.


    To a folded document peeking out from her bag. Pulling it free, he realized it was a maternity check-up report from Shirie Hospital. He scanned it once, then again, his pulse quickening with each read. The truth sank in¡ªEllie was pregnant.


    In a rush of joy, he scooped her into his arms. ¡°Sweetheart, you¡¯re having a baby! I¡¯m finally going to have a child of my own! This is incredible!¡±


    Half-distracted and juggling a conversation about clothing designs, Ellie swatted lightly at him. ¡°I¡¯m on the phone¡ªstop acting silly!¡±


    Thiago spun her twice before setting her down, then twirled himself around the room with joy.


    Watching his joy, Ellie couldn¡¯t help but smile.


    ¡°Honey, I know how tirelessly you¡¯ve been working. As a small token of appreciation for all your dedication, let me offer you a little something¡ªjust a bit of pocket money,¡± Thiago said tenderly, setting Ellie down with care. He reached for his phone, his eyes twinkling with affection, and swiftly transferred a million dors to her ount. Gripping his phone with excitement, he nced at Ellie. ¡°I¡¯m off to research some recipes, something perfect for a pregnant woman.¡±


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    Ellie looked at Thiago¡¯s earnest expression, her heart swelling with joy. Choosing to marry him had been, without a doubt, the best decision of her life. At dinner, Thiago carefully pushed Ellie¡¯s favorite dishes toward her.


    ¡°You should eat properly,¡± he urged, his voice warm with concern. ¡°Your healthes first. From now on, you¡¯re the one calling the shots at home. I¡¯ll listen to you without a doubt.¡±


    As Thiago attended to Ellie, he quietly issued instructions to the household staff and the chef, wanting Ellie to be better taken care of.


    The following day was a weekend, but duty called Thiago to Plomond for a business coboration. Ellie, meanwhile, decided to take young Patrick to visit her parents¡¯ home.


    Brimming with cheer, Ellie indulged in a shopping spree for her parents, selecting two elegant outfits and two pairs of stylish shoes for each, along with an assortment of gourmet treats. With crab season in full swing, she couldn¡¯t resist picking up a bounty of fresh crabs.


    As they stepped out of the elevator, Patrick pressed his finger to the scanner, unlocking the door with ease. After stepping inside, Ellie arranged the array of bags and packages on the table.


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 Chapter 1303

    ?Chapter 1303:


    Leif was tending to the balcony nts, wanting them to thrive, while Tori lounged in front of the television, captivated by an ad for senior wellness supplements.


    Tori switched off the screen and turned to her daughter. ¡°Ellie, darling, where have you been up totely? It¡¯s been ages since youst visited.¡±


    She sifted through Ellie¡¯s gifts, her fingers pausing on a luxurious woolen coat in a rich, deep purple, perfectly suited to her age. Yet, she shook her head. ¡°Didn¡¯t I tell you? No more clothes for me. This is far too loose. It doesn¡¯t suit me one bit.¡±


    Ellie felt a pang of resignation. She prided herself on her keen sense of style and had chosen the pieces with her parents¡¯ preferences in mind. Why was her mother always so hard to please? ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll return itter,¡± Ellie sighed.


    Tori slipped on the pants. ¡°These are decent,¡± she said.


    Then, she tried the shoes. ¡°The shoes are also lovely, but that coat? Not quite right.¡±


    Leif, finished with his gardening, ambled over to inspect the haul. ¡°What a splendid coat!¡± he eximed. ¡°Why are you fussing, Tori? Just wear it. Ellie must¡¯ve spent a fortune on it. It¡¯s far finer than anything you would pick out. Stop your grumbling!¡±


    Leif, delighted with his sleek new ck jacket, admired how it kept him warm while shaving years off his appearance. ¡°Ellie, don¡¯t mind your mother. These are fantastic choices. After all, you¡¯re a top fashion designer!¡±


    Tori huffed, waving a hand dismissively. ¡°I would rather you just slipped me some cash next time.¡±


    Ellie reached into her bag and pulled out a brown paper envelope, which she gently handed to Tori. ¡°A little pocket money for you,¡± she said.


    Leif extended his hand toward the envelope, but Tori swiftly swatted it away. ¡°I manage the finances in this household,¡± she dered firmly. ¡°Why are you reaching for it?¡±


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    Leif¡¯s expression soured. ¡°Can I have a bit of spending money? I¡¯ve handed over my entire pension to you.¡±


    Tori shot her husband a sharp look. ¡°What do you need money for? You don¡¯t handle the grocery shopping. Are you nning to splurge on someone else?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be ridiculous!¡± Leif snapped, abandoning his plea for pocket money and turning his attention to the crabs Ellie had brought.


    Soon after, Hank and his new bride, Mattie Moore, arrived, their affection for each other still radiant from their recent wedding. They set their belongings on the table.


    Hank¡¯s eyes immediately locked onto the thick envelope in Tori¡¯s hand, which appeared to hold a substantial sum of cash, perhaps as much as fifty thousand dors.


    ¡°Mom, what is this money for?¡± he asked, stretching out his hand to take it.<fn7068> Updates are released by </fn7068>


    Mattie, too, gazed at the envelope, wanting to have the money.


    Tori swiftly swatted Hank¡¯s hand away. ¡°Don¡¯t even dream of taking it. This is from your sister. Your father and I are getting on in years and can¡¯t earn like we used to. This house doesn¡¯t run itself. Utilities and upkeep aren¡¯t free. Have you ever chipped in a single dime?¡±


    Hank¡¯s face fell, his tone tinged with frustration. ¡°I only justnded a job, didn¡¯t I? I¡¯m making six thousand a month, and Mattie brings in five. We¡¯re barely scraping by. Our own home¡¯s bills and maintenance eat up over twenty thousand a year. We¡¯re stretched thin.¡±


    His eyes lingered on the envelope, his longing palpable.


    Tori, sensing his intent, promptly whisked the envelope away to her bedroom for safekeeping.


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 Chapter 1304

    ?Chapter 1304:


    Hank slid into the seat beside Ellie. ¡°Ellie, your husband is a vice president at hispany, right? Could you ask him to let me work there? I¡¯m family, after all. Surely, he could offer me a million a year. My current job is a slog, with pitiful pay. And your shop is hiring, isn¡¯t it? Mattie could work there. She¡¯s reliable, and you can pay her well. You¡¯re doing so well for yourself; help us out a bit¡­¡±


    A flicker of irritation crossed Ellie¡¯s face. Hank always dreamed too big, brushing off small opportunities and never able to hold on to anythingrger. More than a year had passed since graduation, and he¡¯d already bounced between multiple jobs withoutmitting to any.


    Mattie, in contrast, had her feet firmly on the ground. Since finishing school, she had kept a steady position at the samepany, though her sry was modest.


    The thought urred to Ellie that her new store could use extra hands, and Mattie might be a good fit. ¡°Alright, Mattie can join me at the store. I¡¯ll start her at ten thousand a month, plusmissions and bonuses. By the end of the year, that adds up to a solid ie. As for you, Hank, stay where you are. My husband¡¯spany only hires postgraduates and PhDs. There¡¯s nothing there that suits you.¡±


    Hank¡¯s face soured. ¡°Ellie, isn¡¯t your husband the vice president there? He can pull strings for me. Who cares about degrees? Even if I only finished elementary school, if he wanted me there, who¡¯d darein? If you¡¯re too embarrassed to ask him, I¡¯ll do it myself!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t even think about it. If I say no, Thiago won¡¯t approve it,¡± Ellie shot back. She knew full well Hankcked the drive and skills for the role. If he evernded in Thiago¡¯spany, he¡¯d only create problems.


    Hank muttered, frustrated, ¡°Fine. If you won¡¯t help, then forget it. You¡¯re my sister. You¡¯re doing so well, and you can¡¯t even give me a hand? That¡¯s heartless.¡±


    Grumbling under his breath, he headed for the kitchen toin to Tori about the matter.


    Mattie moved closer to Ellie, her tone warm. ¡°Thanks, Ellie. Are you sure you¡¯re okay with me working in your store?¡±


    Ellie gave a firm nod. ¡°Yes. Just make sure you put in the effort, learn from others, ande to me if you need help.¡±


    Excitement lit Mattie¡¯s eyes. With a base sry plusmissions and bonuses, her earnings would easily double or triple what she made now¡ªa huge improvement.


    ¡°Ellie, I¡¯ve never worked in fashion before. Is that going to be a problem?¡± she said, a touch of worry in her voice.


    ¡°It¡¯s not an issue. If you¡¯re willing to learn, you¡¯ll pick it up quickly,¡± Ellie reassured her. She had always liked Mattie¡ªshe treated Tori kindly, never argued with her, and even helped out whenever she visited.


    ¡°I¡¯ll give it my all. And please, don¡¯t hold Hank¡¯s temper against him. I know how he is. I¡¯ll talk to him when we get home. Your husband¡¯spany is in high-end tech and finance, so it¡¯s not like Hank fits their requirements for an employee.¡± Mattie knew her husband was pushing too hard. She figured this was something that could be handled more carefully over time.<fn2222> This text is hosted at fin?novel</fn2222>


    Ellie¡¯s agreement was immediate. ¡°Exactly. I¡¯ve already spoken with Thiago about it. Even for sales, they hire people with strong credentials. The pay is excellent, but so are the standards. Hank just doesn¡¯t qualify!¡±


    Meanwhile, in the kitchen, Hank was pouring out hisints to Tori.


    ¡°Mom, I asked Ellie to get me a job, and she t-out refused. She and Thiago make millions every year¡ªwhat¡¯s the harm in giving me a spot? It¡¯s not like one more person in thepany would make a difference.¡±


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 Chapter 1305

    ?Chapter 1305:


    Tori let out a sharp breath, her disapproval clear. ¡°Ellie¡¯s always been like that. If she says no, then drop it. Don¡¯t push her; that¡¯s just the way she is. I¡¯m telling you now, don¡¯t get on her bad side. Your father and I are finally livingfortably because of her. She slips us spending money from time to time, and this house is in our name thanks to her. Our future depends on her. If she won¡¯t agree, leave it alone. Go to Thiago instead; he¡¯d help you.¡±


    Hank¡¯s shoulders slumped. ¡°I knew you¡¯d side with her. Just because she¡¯s got money, you do whatever she says? She¡¯s your daughter¡ªyou should be telling her what to do, not letting her boss you around!¡±


    ¡°Then why don¡¯t you make that kind of money yourself? If you push her too far, how are we supposed to keep this life? The house, the car¡ªeverything you enjoy is because of your sister. Try being grateful for once.¡± Tori¡¯s words cut through his frustration until he fell silent.


    Hank walked out of the kitchen with an even heavier mood.


    At the dining table, Patrick sat surrounded by Lego bricks, carefully putting pieces together. Hank sat beside him and started helping with the build. After a while, Tori walked over carrying a te of sliced fruit, setting it down on the table.


    Ellie said to her, ¡°Mom, I¡¯m pregnant.¡±


    Tori¡¯s face lit up instantly. ¡°That¡¯s wonderful news! I¡¯ve always said you and Thiago should have a child of your own. Your life is stable, and your finances are good¡ªthere¡¯s no reason not to have more kids.¡±


    From his seat, Hank leaned toward Patrick. ¡°Your mom¡¯s going to have another baby, so she won¡¯t want you anymore.¡±<fn1dd3> Updates are released by F?ndNovel</fn1dd3>


    Patrick didn¡¯t even nce at him. ¡°That¡¯s not true.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll see,¡± Hank said with a smirk. ¡°Thiago¡¯s not even your real dad. Once your mother and father have their own kid, they won¡¯t want you anymore. You¡¯ll end up living with your grandparents.¡±


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    Gesturing to Ellie, he added, ¡°See? Your mother is over the moon about the new baby.¡±


    Patrick paused mid-build, Hank¡¯s words swirling in his head.


    Then, without warning, he abandoned his Legos and rushed to Ellie¡¯s side. ¡°Mom, Uncle Hank says you¡¯ll abandon me when the new babyes and send me to live with Grandma and Grandpa. Is that true?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve got some nerve!¡± Tori¡¯s voice snapped like a whip as she stormed toward Hank and hit him. ¡°How could you say something like that to the kid?¡±


    ¡°I haven¡¯t said anything wrong!¡± Hank shouted as he darted frantically around the room, staying just out of Tori¡¯s reach.


    Ellie looked at Hank with disapproval, suspecting that what he had told Patrick was retaliation for her earlier refusal to help him with his job issue.


    ¡°Stop running your mouth!¡± Tori hurled a clothes hanger at Hank. He caught it mid-run, his pace faltering for a moment.


    That pause was all Tori needed tond a few swats on him, scolding him sharply as she did.


    From the sofa, Leif scolded, ¡°What possessed you to say something like that? Apologize to Patrick right now!¡±


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 Chapter 1306

    ?Chapter 1306:


    The room¡¯s disapproval closed in around Hank, only fueling his anger. ¡°So what, just because she¡¯s got money, you all defend her? Fine¡ªkeep depending on her! Don¡¯t expect anything from me from now on!¡±


    He stormed out, mming the door shut behind him.


    Patrick¡¯s small voice broke the silence in the room, ¡°Mom, will you abandon me after the new baby is born?¡±


    Ellie reached over to pat his head. ¡°Of course not. You¡¯re my child, and I love you more than anything. That will not change.¡±


    Patrick nodded, then hesitated. ¡°But I¡¯m not Dad¡¯s real son. When your new baby is born, I¡ª¡±


    ¡°You are my child, Patrick. And maybe you don¡¯t know, but from the day you were born, even though Thiago isn¡¯t your biological father, he¡¯s cared for you like his own. Think about how he treats you¡ªhasn¡¯t he always shown you love?¡± Ellie interjected.


    Patrick answered without doubt, ¡°I understand now. You and Dad both love me.¡±


    ¡°Good. Now go y for a bit.¡± Ellie picked up her phone, firing off a sharp message to Hank.


    From the side, Tori said to Ellie, ¡°Don¡¯t let Hank get under your skin. He¡¯s just acting like a spoiled kid.¡±


    Mattie rose to her feet, sensing that Hank¡¯s behavior had only lowered his chances of getting Ellie¡¯s help. If he wanted a better job, he¡¯d have to apologize to Ellie and mend things.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go find him and make sure he apologizes to you and Patrick,¡± Mattie told Ellie.


    That evening, Patrick was in his room, phone in hand as he called Brenna. The robotic dog sat obediently by the bed, waiting for its nextmand.


    Brenna, fresh back from a trip to Plomond with Thiago, had just settled in for dinner when she received the call.


    ¡°Did you miss me, Patrick?¡± she asked warmly.


    ¡°Brenna, I really love the robot dog you made. Thank you so much,¡± Patrick said in a sweet tone.<fn1826> Official source is F?ndNovel</fn1826>


    ¡°I¡¯m d to hear that,¡± Brenna replied with a lightugh. ¡°And that¡¯s only one design. I¡¯ll make a smaller version for you to y with soon. How does that sound?¡±


    ¡°Okay. But¡­ Brenna, is that rack on the dog¡¯s back meant for a submachine gun?¡± Patrick asked curiously, his eyes on the slot that looked suspiciously like a weapon mount.


    ¡°Sharp eye, kiddo,¡± Brenna remarked with a smirk. ¡°But I don¡¯t have a gun to give you. If you want one there, ask your dad to get you a toy version.¡± She set the phone on speaker and took a bite of her dinner.


    Their light chatter carried on for a while before Patrick¡¯s voice turned somber. ¡°Brenna¡­ My mom¡¯s having a baby. Do you think my parents won¡¯t like me anymore after the baby is born? I want to go and live with you.¡±


    ¡°That is not true! Who¡¯s been filling your head with that nonsense? I¡¯ll teach them a lesson!¡± Brenna¡¯s voice tightened with anger. How could someone say that to a kid?


    ¡°Uncle Hank told me that,¡± Patrick muttered, his voice low. ¡°Can I stay with you for a few days, Brenna?¡±


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 Chapter 1307

    ?Chapter 1307:


    ¡°Of course. I¡¯lle pick you up tomorrow.¡± Brenna resolved that it was time to sit down with Ellie and Thiago for a serious discussion about the matter.


    ¡°Okay.¡± Relieved, Patrick perked up, chatting happily with Brenna again.


    On Monday morning, Brenna took Patrick to school before heading to work.


    In the lobby, she crossed paths with Gracie.


    Gracie¡¯s expression soured the moment she saw Brenna. She was supposed to be on leave, but Sonia had summoned her in¡ªapparently, someone had been circting photos of her in the hospital, and she needed to put a stop to it.


    ¡°Did you leak those photos?¡± Gracie demanded sharply once she and Brenna were in the elevator.


    ¡°What¡¯s that got to do with me? Don¡¯t be absurd. Plenty of people saw you that day, and Waldo¡¯s wife hit you. I¡¯d say she¡¯s furious enough to leak those photos,¡± Brenna gave her a sidelong nce.<fn5605> Get full chapters from </fn5605>


    That shut Gracie up. The logic wasn¡¯t wrong¡ªWaldo¡¯s wife had a reputation for being ruthless, and she was entirely capable of such a move.


    Her irritation lingered, and she decided she¡¯d bring the matter up with Ethanter to figure out how to stop the gossip.


    Later that morning, a knock sounded on Brenna¡¯s office door before Thiago stepped in.


    He looked slightly resigned. ¡°Ellie¡¯s brother is asking for a job here¡ªand for a high sry. I think he could work as my assistant, and I¡¯d pay him out of my own earnings. Is that okay with you?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s lips curved into a faint smile. ¡°Ellie was just ranting about her brotherst night, and he¡¯s alreadye running to you?¡±


    Thiago gave a nod. ¡°Yeah, he¡¯s been going on about how much money we make and why we can¡¯t help him out. Last night, he invited me to dinner and poured his heart outining, crying, saying he¡¯s struggling, and begging for my support.¡±


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    Brenna fixed her gaze on Thiago. ¡°You¡¯re not exactly the type to offer help in this kind of situation.¡±


    ¡°If it were my own siblings, I wouldn¡¯t bother. I haven¡¯t lifted a finger for them all this time; they¡¯ve done too many bad things to me. But Ellie¡¯s brother? He¡¯s different. A bit too ambitious, sure, but he¡¯s a decent guy. With the right guidance, I think he could improve.¡± Thiago had a favorable view of Hank. Aside from earning less and being a touch greedy, he didn¡¯t seem to have any serious ws.


    Thiago believed that with some help, Hank might actually make something of himself.


    He continued, ¡°He is not like my siblings, always looking to leech off me. Hank¡¯s got a way with words, a real charmer¡ª¡±


    Brenna interjected, unable to hold back, ¡°Yesterday, he told Patrick now that Ellie has a new baby, she will abandon him. I think he is cunning and trying to trick you into helping him.¡±


    Thiago scratched his head. ¡°He at least deserves a shot, don¡¯t you think? If he¡¯s a lost cause, I¡¯ll drop it. I told him this is his one chance. If he does well, I¡¯ll back him for a promotion.¡±


    Brenna shrugged. ¡°I¡¯ve got no issue with it. He¡¯s your responsibility. If you want to give him a chance, go for it. His sry doesn¡¯t need toe out of your pocket¡ªit¡¯ll go through thepany¡¯s standard process. We can cover it.¡±


    Thiago grinned. ¡°Appreciate it. I owe you one.¡±


    Then, he turned to the door and called out, ¡°Come in!¡±


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 Chapter 1308

    ?Chapter 1308:


    The door swung open, and Hank stepped in, looking sharp and polished in a crisp ck suit.


    ¡°Bre¡ª¡± Hank began, intending to use Brenna¡¯s first name since she and Ellie were close and likely around the same age. But then, he noticed Brenna looked even younger than him.


    He sighed inwardly, envying how the wealthy achieved so much so young. He believed that if his family had that kind of money, he could¡¯ve built apany just as big.


    But luck hadn¡¯t been on his side.


    ¡°Ms. Harper, hello.¡± He quickly changed how he addressed Brenna. ¡°My sister is Ellie, and I¡¯m Hank. Thiago¡¯s my brother-inw. Thank you for letting me join yourpany. I¡¯ll work hard.¡±


    ¡°Alright,¡± Brenna said. ¡°I¡¯ve discussed it with Thiago. You¡¯ll get a one-month trial. Perform well, and you can stay. But if you ck off or try to make things difficult for others because of your connections, you¡¯re out.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s tone was firm, meant to put Hank on notice. She wanted him to know he couldn¡¯t do whatever he wanted here just because his brother-inw was the vice president.


    Hank shifted ufortably but nodded. The warning in Brenna¡¯s words was clear.


    ¡°I understand. I won¡¯t do anything of that sort,¡± he said.<fnc168> This text is hosted at find?novel</fnc168>


    Brenna was skilled at managing people. She could see through what Hank was thinking. ¡°I¡¯m just being clear upfront¡ªdon¡¯t take it personally. If you do well, we reward performance, and the bonuses are substantial. Even though your education isn¡¯t top-tier, strong skills can still earn you a lot.¡±


    Hank caught her meaning. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. You¡¯re my sister¡¯s friend, and I won¡¯t cause any trouble for you. I¡¯ll work hard. A chance to join apany like this doesn¡¯te often. I¡¯ll make the most of it.¡±


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    Thiago rose and gave Hank¡¯s shoulder a light pat. ¡°You can show your sister what you¡¯re capable of. Prove you¡¯ve got real talent. I¡¯m giving you two options: be my assistant, handling daily operations, or join the sales team. But our sales staff are all graduates in the field, so you¡¯d be at a disadvantage. Your choice.¡±


    Hank thought for a moment. ¡°I¡¯ll be your assistant. At myst job, I handled administrative work. I¡¯m morefortable in such a position.¡±


    The two then exited Brenna¡¯s office, and Lorna stepped in.


    ¡°Finally, someone with a simr education background as me in thepany,¡± Lorna said.


    ¡°You should guide him,¡± Brenna suggested, hoping Hank would prove himself. A capable assistant had serious potential.


    The robot dog orders still needed an outsourcing factory. Brenna nned to ask Ethan for rmendations, as the factory she and Thiago visited in Plomond yesterday hadn¡¯t been suitable.


    When Brenna reached the ny-ninth floor, ni greeted her as she stepped out of the elevator. ¡°Ms. Harper, Mr. Mitchell is with guests. Please wait in the lounge for a moment.¡±


    ¡°Who¡¯s the guest?¡± Brenna asked casually, curious about who warranted Ethan¡¯s personal attention.


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 Chapter 1309

    ?Chapter 1309:


    ni replied, ¡°It¡¯s Mr. Chapman¡¯s wife, here about the situation with Miss Wilson. It seems thepany¡¯s coboration with Mr. Chapman might be at risk.¡±


    In Ethan¡¯s office, Dorsey mmed a stack of photographs onto his desk, her face tight with anger.


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell, take a look at these,¡± she said sharply. ¡°These are pictures of yourpany¡¯s vice president¡ªtaken over thest five months¡ªentering and leaving hotels with my husband. I pulled them myself from hotel surveince footage. I never imagined a top-tierpany like the Mitchell Group would stoop to such tactics to secure partnerships.¡±


    Ethan sifted through the photos, his expression hardening. Disappointment in Gracie settled over him. Once a wealthy heiress, Gracie had now fallen so far as to trade herself just to hold onto her position in thepany.


    He shook his head. He also didn¡¯t understand Dorsey. Despite her husband¡¯s repeated infidelities, she had still chosen to stay with him.


    ¡°Mrs. Chapman, please have a seat,¡± he said evenly. ¡°What do you intend to do now?¡± Dorsey could tell from Ethan¡¯s calm tone that he already had a n in mind.


    ¡°I still want our partnership to continue,¡± she replied. ¡°But the project leader has to change. I don¡¯t want to see Gracie again. If you insist on keeping her in charge of the project, our coboration ends here.¡±


    Ethan gave a curt nod. ¡°Of course. Given the circumstances, Gracie can¡¯t remain on this project. I¡¯ll assign someone else. I assume you¡¯ll be recing your team as well?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely,¡± Dorsey replied firmly. ¡°I¡¯ll oversee the project myself. You¡¯re a reasonable man, Mr. Mitchell¡­¡±


    Thirty minutester, Dorsey left Ethan¡¯s office and headed to the meeting room to discuss project details with Henley.


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    Sonia, having caught wind of the situation, hurriedly called Gracie.


    Brenna stepped into Ethan¡¯s office, bringing up the hospital incident.


    Ethan¡¯s mood was sour. ¡°I never imagined Gracie would do something like this. Even if her performance wascking, I wouldn¡¯t have fired her. But now, with this scandal and no shares left in her name, she probably won¡¯t be able to stay in thepany anymore.¡±


    Brenna gave a dryugh, showing no sympathy for Gracie. ¡°She was desperate to hold onto her position. She didn¡¯t want to be seen as just a decorative figurehead.¡±


    Ethan nodded. ¡°She is proud and hates being underestimated, but this¡­ this isn¡¯t the way to prove herself.¡±


    Brenna said, ¡°So, what¡¯s your n? With those photos circting in thepany and her past missteps, I think it¡¯s pointless to let her stay in thepany.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t fire her,¡± Ethan said. ¡°If she feels she can¡¯t stay and chooses to resign, I¡¯ll offer herpensation.¡±<fnab27> ?? ??? ???? ?? ???? ???? ???????s, ????s? ??s?? find?novel</fnab27>


    He paused for a moment. ¡°Honestly, I hope she chooses to leave. Staying would only lead to more trouble.¡±


    Less than thirty minutester, Gracie burst into the office, interrupting Brenna and Ethan¡¯s discussion about the robotic dog factory.


    ¡°Ethan, why did you hand my project to Henley?¡± Gracie demanded, hands nted on the desk, her eyes red with disbelief and hurt.


    She pressed further, her voice sharp. ¡°Don¡¯t forget, the Mitchell Group wouldn¡¯t be where it is today without my father¡¯s help. You can¡¯t treat me like this.¡± Tears welled up in her eyes, and she started crying.


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 Chapter 1310

    ?Chapter 1310:


    Ethan met her gaze. ¡°Gracie, Mrs. Chapman came to me, insisting on a new project leader. If I don¡¯t agree, she is willing to pay the penalty and end our partnership. That will be a major loss for thepany.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care!¡± Gracie¡¯s voice cracked; she was teetering on the edge of a breakdown. ¡°How am I supposed to stay in thispany after you reced me?¡±


    ¡°Gracie, I think you need to take a break,¡± Ethan said softly, not wanting to sound too harsh considering their past.


    ¡°What are you saying? Are you firing me?¡± Gracie¡¯s eyes widened in shock. She was unaware that her photos at the hospital had already spread through thepany.<fnf241> Chapters first released on Find1Novel</fnf241>


    ¡°What did I do wrong?¡± She assumed Ethan was in the dark about the affair.


    Ethan pulled the photos from his drawer andid them on the desk before her. ¡°Everyone in thepany knows about your affair with Waldo. I think you should take some time away.¡±


    Gracie¡¯s hands shook as she picked up the photos, her face paling.


    She turned to Brenna. ¡°Was this your doing?¡±


    Brenna rolled her eyes. ¡°What does this have to do with me? Don¡¯t you remember what Waldo¡¯s wife said at the hospital?¡±


    Gracie¡¯s mind shed back to Dorsey¡¯s threat to expose the affair, ensuring everyone at the Mitchell Group would know.


    She had heard it at that time, but it had slipped her mind after her surgery. Brenna¡¯s words brought it crashing back.


    ¡°Ethan, what should I do now?¡± Gracie sobbed, overwhelmed by a flood of grievance, frustration, and resentment. She felt utterly broken and fled the room. The secretarial department was abuzz, riveted by the unfolding drama.


    Gracie rushed into her office, locked the door, and cried for a long time, her emotions unraveling.


    Gracie thought back to everything she had done for Ethan when he had founded thepany. She had given him financial support, opened doors to resources, and introduced him to valuable connections. She had done everything she could to help him seed.


    In her mind, such devotion should have secured his loyalty for life. She believed he would always protect her.


    But she had never imagined that things woulde to this. Now, he was willing to turn his back on her.


    He was truly heartless!


    It felt as though something had ripped Gracie¡¯s heart apart. She felt like she had been abandoned by the whole world.


    She could not deny that Ethan had once rescued her from Hector¡¯s grasp. He had given her shares, a ce to live, and the means to ensure she would never have to worry about money again.


    But what did that amount to?


    Weren¡¯t those only small returns for all she had done for him? His help was nothingpared to the sacrifices she had made for him.


    Ethan was ungrateful. She wished she had never lifted a hand to help him.


    Gracie felt deeply hurt and regretful.


    Another question gnawed at her. Why did misfortune always seem to find her? Why had Brennae out unscathed easily with everything?


    Just then, a knock sounded at the door. Gracie quickly dabbed her tears with a tissue, then turned toward the window, feigning interest in the view outside. After a brief pause, she said, ¡°Come in.¡±


    .


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    .

 Chapter 1311

    ?Chapter 1311:


    Sonia stepped into the office. ¡°Miss Wilson, Mr. Mitchell has requested your presence in the conference room for a meeting.¡±


    ¡°A meeting?¡± Gracie asked, confused. She had no projects left to oversee, so why would she be needed for a meeting?


    ¡°What kind of meeting?¡± she asked, her voice edged with surprise.


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure. Mr. Mitchell gave the order himself. He said you are to go immediately,¡± Sonia replied. Gracie thought for a moment.


    Could it be that Ethan had changed his mind and wanted her to continue managing the partnership with Waldo¡¯spany?


    A flicker of hope reignited in her heart.


    ¡°Alright,¡± she replied.


    Five minutester, Gracie stepped into the meeting room, looking hopeful. As soon as she walked in, the room, which had been buzzing with conversation, fell silent. She stopped in her tracks, a foreboding weight settling in her gut. In the vast conference room, dozens of executives and the three vice presidents sat watching her. Every gaze was sharp with disdain, every expression heavy with hostility.


    Gracie reminded herself not to panic and moved with measured steps toward the first empty seat on the right¡ªher usual ce.


    After she sat down, her gaze fell on Dorsey, Waldo¡¯s wife, seated directly across from her. Dorsey¡¯s lips curled into a menacing smile, and her eyes locked with Gracie¡¯s in a stare so sharp that it felt as if it could cut straight through her.


    A knot of unease tightened in Gracie¡¯s chest.


    ¡°What are you doing at a Mitchell Group internal meeting?¡± Gracie asked Dorsey bluntly.


    Dorsey cast a smug nce around the room. ¡°I¡¯m here for you, of course.¡± Gracie noticed that the others were all looking at her. Some eyes held disdain, others narrowed in mockery, and a few heads shook as if in quiet disappointment.


    New adventures await at g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s©q??o??


    The truth was clear now. Dorsey was here to make a move against her. At this realization, Gracie¡¯s hands curled into tight fists beneath the table. She fixed Dorsey with a re and demanded, ¡°What do you want?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll know soon enough.¡± Dorsey nced at her watch. ¡°Mr. Mitchell should be here any moment.¡±


    Right on cue, Ethan walked in, a ck folder in hand. His presence radiated cold authority. He took the main seat without a word. Neville then stepped forward and ced a piece of paper in front of Gracie.


    ¡°Miss Wilson, please read aloud the contents of this document,¡± Neville said, his voice devoid of warmth.


    Gracie looked up at him and caught a fleeting trace of sympathy in his eyes. Without another word, Neville returned to his seat. He exchanged a brief nce with Ethan, whose expression was impassive.


    Gracie lowered her eyes to the document before her. The words blurred for a moment beforeing into focus. A public apology. It listed several admissions. The first dered that the partnership between the Mitchell Group and the Chapman Group had been secured through her hical conduct.


    The words were blunt and unforgiving.


    The second usationid out, in exact detail, the dates and locations of her hotel meetings with Waldo.<fn9c47> Official source is Find1Novel</fn9c47>


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1312

    ?Chapter 1312:


    The third imed she had epted bribes from Waldo¡ªtwo properties, one in Plomond and another in Lorham, which she needed to return to Dorsey.


    ¡°This is humiliating!¡± Gracie¡¯s voice rang out, raw with fury. She didn¡¯t bother to finish reading the rest. In one swift motion, she ripped the document to pieces and flung the scraps straight at Dorsey¡¯s face. ¡°You want me to apologize? No way! It¡¯s not my fault you can¡¯t keep your husband in check. Why me me?¡± Gracie was hysterical, and her eyes were zing as she stared at Dorsey.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t apologize and admit your faults, then hand over your resignation.¡±


    Dorsey¡¯s lips curled into a sneer. She had expected such a reaction from Gracie. ¡°If the Mitchell Group doesn¡¯t give me a satisfactory result today, the partnership ends here.¡±


    Gracie¡¯s cheeks burned. Every gaze in the room was fixed on her, heavy with reproach.


    ¡°Miss Wilson, you¡¯re in the wrong here,¡± Henley said. ¡°If you don¡¯t want to resign, then just apologize. Don¡¯t let the matter jeopardize thepany¡¯s business.¡±


    The room simmered with outrage, every pair of eyes fixed on Gracie, their res heavy with usation, as if she hadmitted an unforgivable offense.


    Milton spoke up, his voice sharp with reproach. ¡°Your actions have stained thepany¡¯s reputation. Even the drone project is suffering. A partner called me yesterday to ask me about what had happened, and I was at a loss for words to exin things to him. A public apology from you would smooth things over for my project.¡±


    Fury surged through Gracie, and she shot back, ¡°This is my personal matter, not something to be dragged into apany meeting. If I owe anyone an apology, it¡¯s Dorsey, and I should do it in private.¡±


    In her anger, she caught sight of the meeting room camera trained on her, its red light blinking, capturing everything.


    g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s takes you on a journey


    She turned toward Ethan. ¡°Are you recording this?¡±


    Ethan hadn¡¯t nned to speak, but her question demanded an answer.


    ¡°Yes,¡± he replied. ¡°Your public apology video will be shared internally in thepany.¡± Though it felt severe, it was the only way to salvage thepany¡¯s image and curb the damage.


    After a pause, he continued, ¡°You may not know this, but your actions have tanked our stock, costing us millions daily. Business partners are calling with questions, and I¡¯m under immense pressure. I suggest you apologize and take some time off. You don¡¯t need to worry aboutpany matters for now.¡±


    Gracie let out a bitter scoff. ¡°How is that any different from firing me? I can¡¯t believe even you would want me to apologize publicly. I won¡¯t do it. This is my private life, and I refuse to let it be aired publicly.¡± She sat with her arms crossed, her stance unyielding.


    Henley voiced his frustration, saying, ¡°Miss Wilson, your reckless behavior is uneptable. Do you even grasp the severity of this? Apologize publicly, or thepany will have no choice but to let you go. It¡¯s up to you.¡±


    Dorsey jumped in. ¡°Exactly. I expect you to deal with this properly. If you don¡¯t, I¡¯m prepared to pay the penalty and end our partnership. I have no respect for apany that tolerates such a shameless person!¡±


    ¡°Just apologize already, Miss Wilson!¡±


    ¡°How can you be so selfish?¡±


    ¡°You did something shameful and still won¡¯t own up to it? You¡¯re dragging us all down. People like you should be fired!¡±


    ¡°Why even bother negotiating with her? Just fire her!¡±


    .<fn1a47> Original content can be found at find?novel</fn1a47>


    .


    .

 Chapter 1313

    ?Chapter 1313:


    The room erupted with biting words, all aimed at Gracie.


    Gracie¡¯s ears rang under the onught, and she could bear it no longer. She turned to Ethan. ¡°I am a co-founder of thispany; how can you sit there and let them tear into me like this? I¡¯m so disappointed in you!¡±


    ¡°Gracie, when you came to me earlier, I suggested you take a break¡ª¡± Ethan began.


    Gracie broke down and interjected, ¡°Enough! I don¡¯t need your pity. I will resign! I¡¯m done here!¡±


    Sobbing, she stormed out, mming the door behind her.


    She felt the whole world had turned against her. The weight of it all crushed her.


    Back in her office, she stuffed her belongings into a bag and then left the Mitchell Group building.


    Just as she stepped outside, her phone buzzed.


    The screen showed Rosie¡¯s name.


    ¡°What is it?¡± Gracie asked, her voice quivering with raw emotion. At that moment, only Rosie seemed capable of offering her a shred of sce.


    ¡°Feeling low? Let¡¯s meet and talk,¡± Rosie replied, considering Gracie¡¯s vulnerability as the perfect chance to secure her investment.


    Rosie had been biding her time, having spent heavily to spread Gracie¡¯s scandalous videos through online trolls, ensuring Gracie had no choice but to turn to her.


    Dorsey had done her part well, too, broadcasting Gracie¡¯s disgrace far and wide. Instead of heading home, Gracie went to the restaurant Rosie had mentioned. Rosie waited in a private dining room, the tableden with dishes and two bottles of beer.


    g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s is where your journey begins


    Gracie entered the room silently, poured a ss of beer, and downed it in one.


    Rosie watched patiently as Gracie gulped down three sses before finally speaking up.


    ¡°I heard what happened,¡± Rosie said. ¡°Brenna orchestrated it all. That day she saved you, she had her own motives.¡±


    Drunk, Gracie nodded, her words slurring. ¡°I knew it was her. She¡¯s always hated me. I confronted her, but she wouldn¡¯t admit it.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s smile widened, pleased to see Gracie¡¯s inebriated state, which aligned with her expectations.


    ¡°She¡¯s a hypocrite, and she¡¯s dangerous. Remember Judy? Brenna killed her. Since Brenna is capable of something like that, what wouldn¡¯t she do?¡± Rosie sighed. ¡°But what can we do? The Harper family backs her, and Ethan protects her. No matter how much we hate her, she¡¯s untouchable. Gracie, you just have to ept the reality.¡±


    Frustration simmered in Gracie¡¯s voice as she cried, ¡°Rosie, you used to have it all! The Harper family treated you like a princess. Your parents loved you, your brothers spoiled you, and everything went your way. But ever since Brenna entered the picture, she¡¯s stolen your whole life and pushed you out. If you hadn¡¯t wed your way backtely, who knows what you¡¯d be doing now¡ªprobably scraping by on the streets.¡±


    In her current position, Gracie knew she was powerless to confront Brenna herself. All her hope was pinned on Rosie as she sought to provoke her into targeting Brenna.


    .


    .<fn5fc4> This text is hosted at find~novel</fn5fc4>


    .

 Chapter 1314

    ?Chapter 1314:


    Seeing straight through Gracie¡¯s attempt, Rosie just sighed and shook her head. ¡°I¡¯ve done what I can, Gracie. You have no clue what it¡¯s been like for me in that house. I spend every day tiptoeing around, trying not to make waves. Brenna never lets up¡ªshe mocks me and bullies me, but I can¡¯t fight back. My brothers barely notice I exist. Whatever ce I had in the Harper family is gone. You can¡¯t rely on me.¡±


    Hopelessness crashed over Gracie, leaving her staring at the floor.


    She asked, ¡°So we¡¯re supposed to let Brenna walk all over us? That¡¯s it?¡±


    Rosie picked up her ss and took a slow drink. ¡°Unless you¡¯ve got some secret n to take her down, what else can we do? Taking her head-on is a losing game.¡± She poured Gracie a drink.


    The air was thick with defeat when Rosie¡¯s phone buzzed, Alec¡¯s name glowing on the screen.


    Word had spread about Alec¡¯s troubles, and Rosie had given up on him. Given his illness, she chose not to ask for the money she had given him.


    Twenty seconds passed with the phone buzzing endlessly before she finally answered the call. ¡°What is it, Alec?¡±


    On the other end, Alec¡¯s words came out tangled and heavy, emotion thick in his voice. ¡°Rosie, I¡¯m so d you picked up. Please¡­ I need you to stand up for me.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s reply was impatient. ¡°Enough with the crying, Alec. Spit it out already. What¡¯s going on? I don¡¯t have time for pointless words.¡±


    At that moment, Ruby was cooking in the kitchen, and Alec spoke softly, fearing she might overhear and hit him.


    ¡°Miss Harper, I can¡¯t move anymore. My own kids pretend I don¡¯t exist, and my wife hits me often. I¡¯m scared she¡¯s going to kill me. Please, Rosie, I need your help. I can¡¯t take it much longer.¡±


    L?t?st ?h¦Ápt?rs in g??lnov??l??.??o??


    Annoyance flickered across Rosie¡¯s face. ¡°What do you want from me, Alec? Your family should be the one looking after you when you are sick, not me. Don¡¯t tell me you expect me to y nurse for you now.¡±


    She had had enough and was ready to end the call.


    But Alec wouldn¡¯t give up. ¡°No one in my family cares about me, and my wife bes crueler by the day. Miss Harper, you¡¯re my only hope. Please¡ª¡±


    Rosie¡¯s patience snapped. ¡°That is not my concern! If your own kids are so heartless, drag them to court! Don¡¯te crying to me.¡±


    Without another word, Rosie ended the call and blocked Alec¡¯s number. A deep, broken sigh escaped Alec as tears streaked down his wrinkled cheeks. Suddenly, he thought of his mother.


    Meanwhile, Rosie thought about the money she¡¯d wasted on Alec, most of it probably long gone, and debated asking him for it back.<fn99ec> Latest content published on find{n}ovel</fn99ec>


    But she also believed he was truly pitiful, so she decided to let the matter go. Generosity didn¡¯te easy for Rosie. She believed Alec didn¡¯t know how lucky he was.


    Gracie, still sitting beside Rosie, had no clue who Rosie was yelling at. Her mind was elsewhere, tangled in worries about her own future. She wanted Rosie to give her some advice.


    Even knowing Rosie wasn¡¯t the sympathetic type, Gracie was unable to think clearly now.


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 Chapter 1315

    ?Chapter 1315:


    ¡°Miss Harper, what would you do if you were in my shoes?¡± Her voice barely rose above a whisper¡ªshe wasn¡¯t hoping for miracles, just some perspective.


    With a casual shrug, Rosie replied, ¡°Honestly? Lie low for a while. Everyone¡¯s got their eyes on you right now, and that kind of attention doesn¡¯t help. Wait until the gossip dies down. Once people move on, you can go look for a new job. Or, if you¡¯ve got the money, why not start apany? That way, you won¡¯t have to answer to anyone.¡±


    Gracie considered the suggestion. Starting her ownpany appealed to her ¡ª she¡¯d always hated taking orders and preferred steering her own ship. ¡°That¡¯s probably for the best. I¡¯ll do some research and figure out which industry to invest in,¡± Gracie replied.


    Rosie said, ¡°Or you could just rx for once. You¡¯ve got enough saved up to live well for years. You don¡¯t have to do anything now.¡±


    She still remembered how quickly Gracie had shot down herst pitch for a business partnership after that trip to Plomond. She knew bringing up the subject now would only make Gracie unable to trust her. She knew she had to be patient.


    ¡°Still, you¡¯re not seriously letting Brenna off the hook, are you, Gracie? After everything she¡¯s put you through?¡± Rosie said, wanting to provoke Gracie.


    Gracie¡¯s answer came with a dark scowl. ¡°Let her off? Never! I wish she¡¯d vanish for good. If I could erase her from this world, I would.¡±


    Bncing a te of pasta in her hands, Ruby made her way to Alec¡¯s bedroom. Just as she reached the doorway, she heard Alec¡¯s trembling voice from inside. ¡°Mom¡­ Pleasee get me, I¡¯m being mistreated¡­¡±


    At those words, Ruby stormed inside. Her eyes zed as she snatched the phone from Alec¡¯s grasp and set the pasta down on the bedside table. Alec¡¯s voice cracked as he cried out, ¡°Give it back!¡± He was afraid, but he still shouted at Ruby to get his phone back.


    Discover where it all happens: g?ln¦Ò¦Í????s?c?m


    Instead of returning it, Ruby snorted and yanked a coat hanger off the wall, swinging it threateningly above his head. Alec stiffened, not daring to say anything now, while she lifted the phone to her ear.<fn7a23> ??? ????? ???????s ??? ?????s??? ?? find?novel</fn7a23>


    ¡°Joann, this is Ruby. How are you feeling at the nursing home these days?¡± Ruby said in a sweet, polite tone, her lips curling into a smile.


    Alec¡¯s stomach sank; he realized she might twist the situation against him.


    On the other end, Joann¡¯s frail voice trembled. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with Alec?¡±


    Ruby let out a lightugh. ¡°Oh, it¡¯s nothing serious. We argued a bit this morning, and he decided to throw a fit. He didn¡¯t like my cooking, so he started talking nonsense. Please don¡¯t take it to heart. I¡¯m sorry for worrying you.¡± After a few more gentle reassurances, Ruby ended the call.


    Her expression darkened the instant the line disconnected. She hit Alec with the hanger. ¡°How dare you do something like that,ining to your mother about me? I¡¯ve fed you, sheltered you, and this is how you repay me? You really deserve a hard lesson.¡±


    ¡°Aaah!¡± Alec¡¯s scream rang out.


    His cries traveled down the hallways, echoing through the building, yet no one came to his aid.


    ¡°If you dare run your mouth again, I¡¯ll make sure you go without food for three days!¡± Ruby snapped, returning the hanger to the wall. She picked up the pasta and Alec¡¯s phone before walking out, leaving him sobbing.


    As she scrolled through his call history, her eyes narrowed. ¡°That old fool¡ªhe even dialed Miss Harper, and our son and daughter, too. But not a single one of them came to care for him.¡±


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 Chapter 1316

    ?Chapter 1316:<fn3450> Content originallyes from F¦ÉndNovel</fn3450>


    Holding the pasta in one hand, Ruby went downstairs. A row of bowls for stray cats and dogs sat near the trash bins. She dumped the pasta into a dog¡¯s bowl. ¡°Better to feed strays than waste food on you,¡± she muttered.


    In the evening, Ellie returned to her parents¡¯ home after work, where Hank and Mattie were already there.


    The moment she caught sight of Hank, anger boiled over. ¡°Who gave you the right to ask my husband for a job at thepany? Did I ever say that was okay?¡± Her words struck Hank like a p. He shot back, his voice rising, ¡°Are you even my sister? I finally got a job in your husband¡¯spany, and he didn¡¯t evenin, so why are you making such a fuss? Do you think I¡¯m so useless? That I would embarrass you by working there?¡±


    Ellie¡¯s anger red at his defiance. ¡°Don¡¯t you even know your own capabilities? You¡¯ve never had a steady job. Every time it¡¯s either too hard or pays too little, you run from it. What skills do you even have? You¡¯ll only embarrass both me and my husband and make things awkward for everyone.¡±


    Hank retorted, ¡°I¡¯ve changed. I am not the same person I used to be. Can¡¯t you say something nice for once? You talk as if I were worthless, but I¡¯m not.¡± His voice hardened as he dered, ¡°Just wait. I¡¯ll prove myself. I can make a million a year.¡±


    But Ellie didn¡¯t believe him at all. She knew his nature too well.


    She gave a short, mockingugh. ¡°You? Earning a million a year? All the employees in thatpany are postgraduates with qualifications you don¡¯t have. You¡¯re just a regr college grad. What do you think you can achieve? Quit now and go back to your old job.¡±


    Hank¡¯s refusal was sharp. ¡°No. I¡¯m not leaving. Your husband even introduced me to the CEO today¡ªyour best friend. She actually encouraged me, unlike you. You¡¯re my sister, yet all you do is tear me down. You just can¡¯t stand to see me seed, can you?¡±


    M?????? ?????????????? ???? ??????????????????.??????


    Frustration burned inside him. Shouldn¡¯t she be d he hadnded a position at argepany, making over ten thousand a month?


    Yet, she still looked down on him.


    Mattie, watching the siblings sh, finally spoke up in Hank¡¯s defense. ¡°Ellie, he really is trying his best. Give him a chance. If your husband and your friend decide he isn¡¯t up to the job, he can resign then.¡±


    Ellie, out of respect for Mattie, didn¡¯t argue further with Hank.


    Leif and Tori both stepped in to ease the tension.


    Leif said, ¡°Let him try. If he fails, I¡¯ll teach him a lesson.¡±


    Tori said gently, ¡°Hank has made progress thesest couple of years. Don¡¯t get worked up over this. Come on, sit down and eat.¡±


    Grateful, Hank nced toward their mother. Ellie had given her some money, and he had asked for some, but their mother had refused him at the time.


    Yet, once Ellie left, their mother had quietly pressed thirty thousand into his hands. At that moment, he had realized that his parents truly cared for him the most.


    Hank clenched his jaw with determination. ¡°That¡¯s right. I won¡¯t know if I can make it unless I try. My brother-inw has influence in thatpany¡ªwhy wouldn¡¯t I use the connection? Only a fool would waste such a good opportunity.¡±


    The entire family rallied to convince Ellie, while Hank smirked with satisfaction. ¡°See? Everyone¡¯s on my side. Don¡¯t worry, sis; I won¡¯t let you down. Plus, your friend hasn¡¯t even objected, so why should you?¡±


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 Chapter 1317

    ?Chapter 1317:


    Buoyed by the support, he eagerly updated Ellie on his job. ¡°I¡¯m your husband¡¯s assistant now! And guess what? The CEO, your friend, also has an assistant with a bachelor¡¯s degree, just like me. Your husband says my pay will match hers¡ªeighteen thousand a month! If I do well, there will also be bonuses. Isn¡¯t that awesome? Don¡¯t you want me to seed?¡±


    Ellie rolled her eyes. ¡°You need the talent to back that up.¡±


    She knew her brother¡¯s limits all too well. Her real worry was that, because of her, Brenna would hesitate to fire Hank even when she didn¡¯t want him in herpany.


    The following evening, Ellie invited Brenna to a seafood restaurant for dinner.


    ¡°Brenna, I¡¯m so sorry about my brother,¡± Ellie said apologetically. ¡°He has been a troublemaker since we were kids. Now that he is grown, he brushes off small opportunities and can¡¯t handle the big ones. He is always chasing some get-rich-quick scheme. Since I got back, he has been hounding me daily for a high-paying job or startup cash. I¡¯m exhausted by his pestering. And now, he is causing you trouble. I¡¯m really sorry.¡±


    Brenna gently took her hand. ¡°It¡¯s fine. Your brother seems sharp and works hard in mypany. He is not as bad as you make him out to be.¡±


    Ellie, still embarrassed, assumed Brenna was just being kind.


    ¡°Don¡¯t go easy on him because of me. If he steps out of line, fire him. I won¡¯t say a word,¡± she said to Brenna.


    ¡°No one is perfect starting out. If he¡¯s willing to learn, I¡¯ll give him a shot. Don¡¯t worry too much. He¡¯s doing alright now,¡± Brenna reassured her, taking time to ease Ellie¡¯s concerns.


    The following morning, Isabe was at the shop, showcasing a cutting-edge humanoid robot to a customer.


    Ruby lingered near the doorway, observing that Isabe was upied and choosing not to disturb her. She waited patiently by the entrance until the customer departed.


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    After over thirty minutes, the customer finally left, and Isabe, escorting him out, only then spotted Ruby.


    ¡°Mom, what are you doing here?¡± Isabe asked, irritation creeping into her voice.


    Dressed in pricey, stylish clothes, likely worth hundreds, and with wless makeup, Isabe exuded confidence andpetence. Ruby looked at her with displeasure.


    ¡°You¡¯ve made it big and forgotten your mom, haven¡¯t you? You don¡¯t even visit home anymore. Your brother¡¯s never around, either, leaving me to care for your dad alone. Are you trying to exhaust me?¡± Rubyined.


    Isabe had long toyed with the idea of cutting ties with her family. After all, they couldn¡¯t offer her any help now.


    With Alec no longer useful to Rosie, she knew she didn¡¯t need to keep an eye on him.


    ¡°I¡¯m swamped with work. You handle Dad. I¡¯ll visit you when necessary,¡± she said coldly. ¡°Don¡¯t show up here again unless it¡¯s about something important.¡±


    Ruby grew anxious. ¡°What is that supposed to mean? Are you embarrassed by me?¡±


    ¡°No, I¡¯m not,¡± Isabe replied, though her difort was clear, especially with her colleagues watching. ¡°If you¡¯ve got something to say, not here¡ªit¡¯s awkward with everyone looking.¡± She gently nudged Ruby away.


    .


    .<fn6254> For more chapters visit Find¡ïNovel</fn6254>


    .

 Chapter 1318

    ?Chapter 1318:


    Ruby was careful not to anger Isabe, worried that pushing too far might lead Isabe topletely cut ties with her.


    She had tried tracking down her son but didn¡¯t know where he lived.


    Alec had told her that their son was working as a gigolo now, and that had made her furious.


    After finding her son¡¯s workce via Alec¡¯s phone, she went there but was promptly kicked out.


    Now, Isabe was her only lifeline. She said, ¡°When you returned to the family, our life was good. Remember how I treated you at that time? I¡¯m getting old, Isabe. I need you to look after me. You can¡¯t turn your back on me now.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t. I¡¯ve just been mmed with work. When I have free time, I¡¯ll visit you,¡± Isabe said, her patience wearing thin. ¡°Go home now. Don¡¯te here unless it¡¯s urgent.¡±


    Ruby was unwilling to give up. ¡°At least tell me where you live.¡±


    Isabe¡¯s irritation red. ¡°You don¡¯t need to know that. Just go, and I¡¯ll visit you when I can.¡±


    Ruby had no choice but to leave.


    At the supermarket, Ruby picked up essentials, fruit, and meat before heading home. As she approached the door, she heard Alec yelling.


    Storming into his room, she grabbed a hanger and began striking him, unleashing her pent-up anger over Isabe and her son¡¯s absence on him.


    ¡°This is all your fault, you useless old man, driving our kids away! Why don¡¯t you just drop dead? You think anyone¡¯sing to save you with all that shouting? No one cares! Keep shouting, and I¡¯ll beat you to death!¡±


    In the evening, when Brenna came back home, Giselle brought up a matter at dinner that had been on her mind for a long time.


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    ¡°Winter is nearly here, and Ernst and Lilith have been together for a year already. Should we start talking about marriage with the Richardsons?¡±


    Shepard gave a slight nod, showing no resistance. ¡°You¡¯ve always taken the lead in these things. It¡¯s your call. I have no objections.¡± He then turned his attention to Ernst. ¡°So, how are things between you and Lilith these days?¡±


    Ernst shrugged in resignation. ¡°We meet every week¡ªdinners, movies, shopping trips. We go to art shows, even Dalton¡¯s concerts. Honestly, I feel like her parents are testing me.¡±<fnb764> This text is hosted at FindN()vel</fnb764>


    Shepard responded with a knowing look. ¡°Trying to figure out if your personal life is messy?¡±


    Ernst said, ¡°That¡¯s exactly it. Let¡¯s be honest, how many people from wealthy families can im spotless personal lives? It makes sense that they¡¯d want to be sure about me.¡±


    Brenna didn¡¯t share his opinion. ¡°Ethan doesn¡¯t have a messy personal life, and neither do I. You and Dalton have both behaved yourselves as well.¡±


    ¡°But that¡¯s not how Lilith¡¯s parents see it. They want to find out for themselves. In their eyes, the wealthy are all corrupt, and letting their daughter marry someone from a rich family is just preparing her for her husband¡¯s eventual betrayal. Once, Lilith¡¯s mother even told me straight out that marriages among the rich are nothing but business deals, profitable without genuine love.¡±


    Ernst felt a headacheing on at the thought and was unwilling to face Lilith¡¯s parents.


    Tessa ate in silence, staying out of the discussion. She minded her own business and only wanted to care for Rosie.


    .


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 Chapter 1319

    ?Chapter 1319:


    Besides, she hated being in this house. Her husband had died here, and the ce carried too many painful memories. She yearned to return to her own home.


    Rosie finally spoke up with irritation. ¡°Do you honestly believe their intentions are that pure? I¡¯m certain what they really want is our family¡¯s money. If that¡¯s true, then what¡¯s the point of pretending love matters? No one gets to have wealth, influence, and genuine affection at the same time. What makes them think their daughter is so special that she can have it all?¡±<fn2147> Updates are released by F?ndNovel</fn2147>


    Although Rosie¡¯s reasoning had some truth, Giselle didn¡¯t like what she said. After all, Lilith¡¯s mother had been her close friend for years.


    ¡°Lilith¡¯s mother isn¡¯t like that. It¡¯spletely fair for Lilith¡¯s parents to want the best for their daughter,¡± Giselle stood up for her friend, hinting that Rosie owed an apology for what she had said.


    Rosie caught on to the meaning in Giselle¡¯s words, but she didn¡¯t think she had said anything wrong. She tried to reason with her instead. ¡°Mom, I really don¡¯t think Lilith is right for Ernst. Her family is nowhere near our level. Ernst is set to inherit the Harper Group, which is worth billions, and his wife should alsoe from a wealthy family. With Lilith¡¯s background, she isn¡¯t suitable to be his wife.¡±


    Although Giselle wasn¡¯t in a position to scold the younger ones outright, keeping quiet would have upset her. So, knowing that, Brenna spoke on her behalf. ¡°Don¡¯t you think that¡¯s going too far? Lilith is going to be Ernst¡¯s wife, and it¡¯s obvious he has real feelings for her. Our family stands firmly on its own; we don¡¯t need another family¡¯s influence. Ernst has the right to marry the one he truly loves.¡±


    Rosie considered letting the matter go to avoid getting everyone suspicious of her intentions, but she resisted and pushed once more.


    ¡°I disagree. Lilith doesn¡¯t deserve to be a member of this family. In the long run, if she joins us at important gatherings and banquets, she might bring embarrassment to the family. If you¡¯re determined to ept her, I won¡¯t stand in the way. But honestly, the worst that could happen is a divorce in two years; Ernst can choose someone who truly matches his status then.¡±


    Shepard¡¯s anger red. ¡°Unbelievable! You¡¯re already bringing up divorce before the marriage has even happened! You¡¯re still young, so why hold onto such outdated notions about social rank? What matters is that my son loves her. That alone is enough. Our family¡¯s position doesn¡¯t need any boosting from a daughter-inw. And if you can¡¯t say anything nice, then it¡¯s best you keep quiet.¡±


    It was the first time Shepard had ever spoken to her so sharply, and Rosie froze in ce for a moment, frustration rising within her. She wanted to snap back, but then her eyesnded on her grandmother, who sat quietly, looking at Shepard.


    ¡°Grandma, I apologize. I shouldn¡¯t have said those things,¡± Rosie tried to summon tears, hoping to appear wronged so her grandmother might see her as being unfairly treated again, but no tears came.


    Tessa looked from her son to her daughter-inw, then fixed her attention on Rosie. ¡°Stop meddling in other people¡¯s business.¡±


    Brenna thought her grandmother¡¯s words were fair and decided to share some information she had recently heard. ¡°Ethan told me a few days ago that his contacts in¡­¡±


    Plieca passed along some news. ¡°Apparently, Prince Maxley just married the daughter of the Natt family, one of the wealthiest there.¡±


    Rosie stared at her in shock. ¡°What did you just say? That can¡¯t be true! Howe I didn¡¯t know that?¡±


    Brenna knew Rosie wasn¡¯t aware of this. Still, she feigned surprise. ¡°You don¡¯t know? I assumed you¡¯d agreed to it. Just two days ago, Maxley held a huge wedding. How could you have missed that?¡±


    .


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 Chapter 1320

    ?Chapter 1320:


    Rosie was caughtpletely off guard. Tessa was actually ming her for meddling. This was odd.


    Hadn¡¯t Tessa always been on her side?


    With a huff of grievance, she nced at Tessa, her eyes brimming with disappointment.


    Tessa acted as though she hadn¡¯t noticed.


    Meanwhile, Giselle and Shepard carried on with their conversation, discussing the best time to meet the Richardsons regarding the engagement ceremony.


    A restless feeling lingered with Rosie. Once the meal was over, she led Tessa back to her room as usual.


    As soon as the door closed behind them, Tessa¡¯s voice turned serious. ¡°You¡¯re letting your mind wander, child. Quit dwelling on nonsense and concentrate on your husband. He¡¯s your priority. Do you understand?¡±


    Rosie brushed the advice aside. ¡°Honestly, Grandma, wealth means more than any man to me. If my husband leaves me, I¡¯ll find another man. But if I¡¯m stripped of my assets, he will divorce me in an instant. I¡¯ve barely lost a few businesses, and he¡¯s already taken another wife. If I end up without my Harper Group shares, he¡¯ll definitely divorce me, because I¡¯ll be nothing to him then.¡±


    Tessa shook her head, unable to ept Rosie¡¯s perspective. With decades separating them, it was only natural that their perspectives and values would sh.<fnbb46> Read full story at find(?)ovel</fnbb46>


    ¡°You foolish girl,¡± Tessa said softly. ¡°Money can¡¯t buy everything you want.¡±


    Rosie pouted, unwilling to agree. ¡°I still believe wealth and influence are what count. But Grandma, you did make one good point: I need to secure my ce in his heart. He can have as many women as he wishes, so long as I¡¯m the one holding authority.¡±


    Exclusive updates live g?ln¦Òv???s


    Tessa frowned in confusion. ¡°You¡¯re fine with your husband having other women?¡±


    Rosie shrugged, her tone t. ¡°That doesn¡¯t bother me, Grandma. In Plieca, polygamy is part of the culture; it¡¯spletely legal. But no matter how many wives there are, only one truly runs the household. And that role belongs to me.¡±


    She suddenly clutched Tessa¡¯s arm. ¡°Grandma, you¡¯re all I have left. Everyone¡¯s ganging up on me; you have to stand by me.¡±


    Tessa gently patted her hand. ¡°How are they ganging up on you? They¡¯ve already promised you the shares that are rightfully yours. You now control twenty percent of the Harper Group¡¯s shares. With that much, you can hold your ground in Plieca. What¡¯s there to fear? What you should do is return to your husband and win his heart back.¡±


    Rosie gave a scoff. ¡°I won¡¯t tter him, Grandma. He¡¯s the one who depends on me, not the other way around. He should be the one trying to please me.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s your decision,¡± Tessa replied calmly. ¡°In a few days, I¡¯ll be leaving. I don¡¯t feel at ease staying here. You can live however you want; I won¡¯t interfere.¡±


    She had grown weary of this ce. Luther had died herest year, and every time she walked into the living room or the dining room, memories of him overwhelmed her with sorrow.


    After a pause, she continued, ¡°What¡¯s more, my condition keeps weakening. I should return to the estate and focus on resting.¡±


    By Monday noon, Ethan was in thepany cafeteria, having lunch with Brenna.


    As he ate, his phone rang with a call.


    Seeing the caller, he scowled and muttered, ¡°What is it this time?¡±


    It was Elsa calling.


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 Chapter 1321

    ?Chapter 1321:


    ¡°Mom, why are you calling me?¡± Ethan asked as soon as he picked up the call, his tone casual.


    Elsa was clearly upset at his question. ¡°Oh, so now I need a reason just to call my own son? Do you hear yourself?¡±


    Ethan¡¯s frown grew deeper. ¡°How have you been? I¡¯ve been swamped with worktely; that¡¯s why I haven¡¯te by.¡±


    Elsa said with a huff, ¡°I need you to get in touch with your brother. He ignores me whenever I call. He¡¯s still holding a grudge against me, even though I¡¯m not interfering in whatever¡¯s going on with his wife. All I want is a chance to see him and my grandson. That¡¯s hardly unreasonable, don¡¯t you think?¡±


    Elsa¡¯s sudden disy of softness took Ethan aback. In all the years he¡¯d known her, he couldn¡¯t recall her ever backing down like this.


    ¡°He¡¯s fine. His pregnant wife is staying home, and his mother-inw is there to help. They¡¯ve also hired a maid. They¡¯re managing well, so don¡¯t interfere in their lives, alright?¡± Ethan said.


    He could already see Elsa¡¯s old nature resurfacing; she was beginning to scheme about interfering in Kenny¡¯s life again. For the moment, she seemed pleasant enough, but as soon as she came face-to-face with Rosanna, her objections would likely re up all over again.


    The best n was for his mother and his sister-inw to remain apart.


    ¡°Mom, I¡¯m nning to choose a perfect day to get engaged to Brenna.¡± Ethan had already made his choice, and approval from Elsa was thest thing he needed. He only wanted her to know.


    Just as he had expected, Elsa reacted with surprise. ¡°Get engaged? Are you sure you want to marry her?¡±


    There was still disapproval in her tone.


    Explore captivating tales on g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s


    Ethan realized she hadn¡¯t changed at all.


    ¡°I do. I¡¯m merely informing you, not asking for your permission. If that¡¯s all, I¡¯ll end the call now,¡± he said.<fnd624> This update is avable on fin?novel</fnd624>


    Elsa quickly responded, ¡°No, don¡¯t hang up yet. What¡¯s the rush? When was thest time you called me? Each time I contact you, you rush to end the conversation. It¡¯s like you have no regard for me whatsoever. An engagement, is it? Fine, I¡¯ll find someone to help you organize it.¡±


    ¡°I can manage it myself; there¡¯s no need for you to worry.¡± Ethan instantly regretted telling her about the matter.


    Once Ethan hung up the phone, Brenna noticed the grim look on his face. She didn¡¯t press for answers and just put some food on his te. ¡°Come on, let¡¯s eat.¡±


    Ethan figured there was no reason to keep anything from Brenna. They were engaged, after all, and at some point, she¡¯d have to face his meddlesome mother.


    ¡°My mom didn¡¯t cause trouble for a while, but now, she¡¯s trying to meddle in my affairs again,¡± he said, sounding exasperated.


    Brenna didn¡¯t take it too seriously. In her view, Elsa wasn¡¯t all that hard to deal with.


    Ethan was in a meeting in the afternoon when his secretary knocked and entered, whispering to him that Elsa had arrived. He hadn¡¯t expected this at all.


    To make things worse, Gracie had alsoe here.


    They were both seated in his office, waiting for him.


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 Chapter 1322

    ?Chapter 1322:


    Elsa didn¡¯t seem as fond of Gracie as she had once been. She had recentlye across some gossip about Gracie¡ªrumors about her being a mistress, getting pregnant, suffering abuse, having a miscarriage, and other negative stories.


    It left her with nothing but disgust toward Gracie. She couldn¡¯t even stand the sight of her anymore.


    Gracie turned to Elsa, regret shing in her eyes. Chasing deals through Waldo had backfired, costing her both influence and money.


    ¡°Mrs. Mitchell, it¡¯s been a while since west met. How have you been?¡± Gracie asked Elsa in a soft tone.


    Elsa narrowed her eyes at her. ¡°I¡¯ve been fine,¡± she replied with disdain in her gaze.


    Gracie balled her fists, wounded by the chill in Elsa¡¯s response.


    ¡°d you¡¯re doing okay.¡± She had no intention of dragging out the exchange since she realized Elsa looked down on her now.


    Just then, ni entered, carrying coffee and a te of neatly arranged fruit. Elsa turned toward ni. ¡°Does Ethan ever take a break? Every time I stop by, he¡¯s buried in work.¡±


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell is currently in a meeting that may go on for another hour,¡± said ni, keeping her tone pleasant. ¡°Enjoy some fruit and coffee while you wait for him. I can also turn on the television for you if you want.¡±


    ni was simply echoing what Ethan had told her to say. He wasn¡¯t going to cut his meeting short just to entertain his mother, especially since her sudden visit was likely about Kenny.


    Elsa was displeased. ¡°Don¡¯t bother. I¡¯ve got no interest in watching TV. Anyway, how are things between Ethan and Brennately?¡±


    Although ni felt some tension, she answered truthfully. ¡°Mr. Mitchell and Miss Harper¡¯s rtionship is solid. They often eat lunch together in the cafeteria or have takeout in the office. They ate together at noon today.¡±<fn7560> ???? ????s? ???????s ?? find(?)ovel</fn7560>


    Your storytelling begins at g ¦Á? ¦Ç¦Ò ¦Í?? ??s,


    Elsa let out a coldugh. ¡°She¡¯s already acting like she is my son¡¯s girlfriend? I didn¡¯t consent to their rtionship¡­¡±


    She stopped talking, catching herself meddling again, a habit she found hard to shake.


    She said to ni, ¡°You can leave. I¡¯ll let you know if I need anything.¡±


    After ni left, Gracie felt an urge to speak with Elsa.


    ¡°Mrs. Mitchell, Brenna¡¯s quite impressive. You¡¯ve heard the matter, haven¡¯t you?¡±


    Elsa gave her a cold look. ¡°Heard what?¡± There was no hiding the disgust in her tone. Her dislike for Brenna was mildpared to the revulsion she felt toward Gracie.


    She felt her aversion deepen as she realized Gracie was on the verge of saying something bad about Brenna behind her back.


    ¡°Brenna has the Mitchell Group¡¯s shares now,¡± said Gracie, hoping to strike a nerve. She figured Elsa wouldn¡¯t flinch at romance gossip, but business? That was definitely something Elsa cared about.


    ¡°Are you saying my son handed some of his shares over to Brenna?¡± Elsa¡¯s voice rose as her brows drew together sharply.


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 Chapter 1323

    ?Chapter 1323:


    She eyed Gracie with suspicion, thinking she was stirring trouble deliberately because she couldn¡¯t marry Ethan.


    Gracie considered deceiving Elsa, suggesting either that Ethan had gifted the shares to Brenna or that Brenna had brazenly demanded them from him. But with Ethan expected back any minute, and Elsa perfectly capable of confirming the truth herself, lying wasn¡¯t an option.


    ¡°No, someone acquired the shares of the Mitchell Group from me and handed them to Brenna, making her a shareholder in thepany,¡± Gracie had no choice but to tell the truth, hoping it would turn Elsa against Brenna.


    ¡°Is that it? That¡¯s not a big deal. Every majorpany has plenty of shareholders. As long as those shares weren¡¯t wrung out of my son, I couldn¡¯t care less.¡± Elsa waved a hand, unimpressed.


    Hearing that, Gracie felt a bitter tug of disappointment. There was no spark of outrage in Elsa, no sign that she nned to reim those shares.


    ¡°Mrs. Mitchell, are you reallyfortable letting someone outside the family hold part of thepany¡¯s shares?¡± she asked, her voice sharper now.


    Elsa cast her a pointed nce. ¡°As long as Ethan keeps the majority, the rest is not important. I¡¯ve handled enough business matters to know that¡¯s not a threat.¡±


    Feeling disappointed, Gracie reached into her bag, pulled out an envelope, and set it quietly on Ethan¡¯s desk.


    ¡°Mrs. Mitchell, I¡¯m here to submit my resignation today. We can talk another time. I¡¯ll be leaving now.¡± Gracie kept her tone respectful as she turned to leave.


    Elsa muttered, ¡°Keep your distance from my son. Your reputation¡¯s in ruins, and it has affected my son¡¯spany. You should consider yourself lucky that I haven¡¯t snapped at you.¡±


    Gracie overheard Elsa¡¯s words as she spoke with Sonia at the door, realizing how much others despised her now.


    §Þ?§Ô? ¦Ô¦Ñ??§ä?? ?§ä g?l????l?.???


    Regret twisted in Gracie¡¯s chest. She med herself for being too trusting, too soft. After all she had done for thepany, this was the thanks she got¡ªtossed aside without a second thought.<fnd070> Updates are released by Find[?]ovel</fnd070>


    And Waldo? He couldn¡¯t even stand up to his own wife.


    What exactly made Waldo¡¯s wife so untouchable? Was it just because she held a handful of shares?


    Thepany was clearly under Waldo¡¯s name, yet he acted like a frightened child in front of his wife. To Gracie, that wasn¡¯t a man worth respecting. All it took was one small incident, and Waldo couldn¡¯t even face her. That alone filled her with disappointment.


    In the next breath, Gracie made a choice. She would no longer be seen as someone expendable. Even without anyone backing her, she would prove she wasn¡¯t easy to be trifled with.


    Waldo¡¯s wife? Please. If Dorsey could carry that title, so could she, and she¡¯d wear it with more power and purpose.


    As the thought settled, her conviction hardened. She believed someone like Dorsey didn¡¯t deserve respect. She was worse than her by far.


    Not long after, she spun on her heel, strode back into the office, and snatched the resignation letter from Ethan¡¯s desk. Why should she resign?


    She refused to walk away like this.


    She would stay in thepany. And not only that, she¡¯d make them regret underestimating her. They would be eager to tter her then.


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 Chapter 1324

    ?Chapter 1324:


    Elsa raised a brow, caught off guard by Gracie¡¯s gesture. ¡°Why¡¯d you take it?¡±


    Gracie didn¡¯t bother to reply to Elsa. She no longer had an ounce of regard for her. That woman had only treated her kindly when she believed she was still backed by the Wilson Group. But the second Elsa learned about the bankruptcy and the mountain of debt, she dropped the mask.<fn207f> The rightful source is ?ovelFind</fn207f>


    Elsa had never truly cared for her. Knowing that made everything easy for Gracie¡ªthere was no point wasting time on someone like Elsa.


    Without offering so much as a nce at Elsa, Gracie headed for the door.


    Near the doorway, Sonia looked puzzled when she saw Gracie. ¡°You?¡±


    Gracie met her eyes with calm resolve. ¡°Give it a few days. I¡¯ll be back.¡± She let her gaze drift toward the conference room. Ethan still hadn¡¯t stepped out.


    Whatever feelings she had once held for him had withered. Why keep caring for someone so cold?


    Gracie didn¡¯t want to y the lovesick fool anymore. She had learned her lesson. She wouldn¡¯t sit around waiting to be discarded. Her goal now was power¡ªenough power tomand respect from any man, Ethan included.


    Momentster, Ethan came back from the meeting and noticed Elsa sitting alone. He turned to ni. ¡°Didn¡¯t Graciee here to submit her resignation?¡±


    ni nodded. ¡°She did. But she left shortly after.¡±


    Elsa spoke without much interest. ¡°She dropped a letter on your desk, then returned and took it back. No idea what game she¡¯s ying.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s opinion of Gracie had plummeted. ¡°You shouldn¡¯t keep a woman like her around, Ethan. She is the type who wrecks families and has no shame. She¡¯s bad news¡ªfor your image and your business.¡±


    Irritation flickered across Ethan¡¯s face. ¡°Mom, stay out of mypany affairs. I know what I¡¯m doing. Why did youe to see me?¡±


    Your source of stories: galn¦Òv??ls.??????


    Elsa let out a short huff. ¡°I came here because of your brother. He¡¯s been ignoring my calls ever since he got out of the hospital. Maybe I crossed a line back then, but I¡¯m still his mother. Shouldn¡¯t he stop holding grudges against me by now?¡±


    Ethan kept flipping through a stack of documents Neville had sent over. He picked up a pen and signed each one without pause.


    Elsa grew more frustrated as her son stayed focused on his paperwork instead of her. ¡°Are you even paying attention? You¡¯re all I have left. If you don¡¯t care about me, then who will? Put those files aside and listen to me.¡±


    Ethan didn¡¯t look up. He kept signing. ¡°I¡¯m listening. Say what you need to say.¡± Knowing he was swamped, Elsa tried to keep her voice calm. ¡°Call your brother. I need to know how he¡¯s doing. I want to know if he needs me to look after him.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s fine without you. We talked recently. He started a new job a couple of months ago. And his wife has changed her job,¡± said Ethan, cing the signed pages aside and taking a sip of water.


    Elsa stepped closer. ¡°Call him right now. I need to hear it from him, not from you.¡±


    Ethan pulled out his phone and dialed Kenny¡¯s number. But the call didn¡¯t go through; Kenny¡¯s phone was out of service.


    ¡°He might be on the ne. He¡¯s doing well. You don¡¯t need to worry about him,¡± Ethan said.


    Tears slipped down Elsa¡¯s cheeks. Her voice trembled as the emotion broke through. ¡°What does your brother want from me? Fine, I shouldn¡¯t have pushed Rosanna that day. I admit it. But I¡¯m still his mother. Isn¡¯t that worth something? It has been a long time. Why won¡¯t he forgive me? Am I supposed to fall on my knees and apologize?¡±


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 Chapter 1325

    ?Chapter 1325:


    Ethan¡¯s brow furrowed, but he kept his expression t. ¡°This is between you and him. I don¡¯t want to get in the middle.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s temper red. ¡°Then who will, Ethan? What¡¯s that supposed to mean? Are you going to turn your back on me, too? You¡¯re both my sons. I raised Kenny with all my heart. I didn¡¯t do it so he could cut me off when he grew up. I only want to ask if he¡¯s truly nning not to talk to me forever.¡±


    Elsa vented her frustrations off to the side while Ethan remained absorbed in the documents.


    ¡°Are you even listening? How are you going to deal with this?¡± Elsa snapped, yanking the papers from his hands.


    Ethan calmly retrieved them and signed without hesitation. ¡°I¡¯ll arrange for you two to meet. Just wait at home.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s mood lifted slightly. ¡°That¡¯s better. But don¡¯t deceive me. I want to see him within three days, or I¡¯ll be back for you.¡±


    As Elsa turned to leave, Brenna entered, carrying the lunch Lorna had bought. Elsa¡¯s sharp gaze locked on Brenna¡¯s, edged with hostility. But she quickly reminded herself of her resolve to stop meddling in her sons¡¯ marriages. Ethan already found her overbearing, and provoking her future daughter-inw would do her no good.


    Still, her distaste for Brenna lingered.


    With a cold expression, she decided not to say anything to greet Brenna. Brenna had no desire to talk to Elsa, either, but she knew appearances mattered. So, she said politely, ¡°Hello, Mrs. Mitchell.¡±


    Elsa responded with a faint hum, her eyes flicking toward the takeaway bag. Watching Brenna fuss over Ethan, she decided, for now, to ease her resentment toward her.


    ???? ??d???? ?? g????????.????


    ¡°What did you bring?¡± she asked Brenna, trying to extend an olive branch.<fnca79> Th?s chapter is updated by Find1Novel</fnca79>


    Brenna found Elsa¡¯s attitude strange, but she still replied respectfully, ¡°Roast chicken, mashed potatoes, a small sd, and some pasta. Would you like to join us for lunch, Mrs. Mitchell?¡±


    Ethan nced at Brenna, silently warning her not to be so courteous. He believed she shouldn¡¯t have asked Elsa that. He knew his mother would probably say yes.


    As he had expected, Elsa replied, ¡°That sounds wonderful. It¡¯s lunchtime anyway. If I went home, I¡¯d only be cooking for myself. Better to eat with you two.¡±


    Brenna froze. She now regretted inviting Elsa to join them. She had only brought food for two.


    Thinking about that, she shot Ethan a quick nce, and he immediately stepped in.


    ¡°Mom, Brenna and I don¡¯t mind simple food, but it might not suit your taste. It¡¯s better if you eat at home,¡± he said.


    Elsa¡¯s face stiffened, and she shot him a re. In truth, she didn¡¯t enjoy the thought of dining with Brenna anyway.


    ¡°Fine, I was only joking. It¡¯s still early¡ªI¡¯ll head back now,¡± she said. She suspected her son saw her as a nuisance and doubted Brenna¡¯s sincerity in the invitation.


    Elsa soon turned and left.


    Brenna exhaled in relief. ¡°I was just being polite. There isn¡¯t enough food for her to join us.¡±


    Ethan chuckled. ¡°I know. I should have warned you she was here, so you could intercept her.¡±


    Meanwhile, Gracie returned home, tore her resignation letter into shreds, and logged into the dark web.


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 Chapter 1326

    ?Chapter 1326:


    She posted a task carrying a two-million-dor reward.


    The details, of course, were hidden¡ªonly those who epted the task would get the information.


    Within two hours, someone had epted the task.


    By Monday, Ethan was back in the boardroom, leading a high-level meeting to discuss the coboration between the Chapman Group and the Mitchell Group.


    ¡°Mr. Burke, update us on the progress,¡± Ethan said, eager to hear how Henley had handled Gracie¡¯s former responsibilities.


    ¡°Yes, Mr. Mitchell. The talks have stalled. The vice president of the Chapman Group isn¡¯t satisfied with our pricing. She insists their chips are globally advanced and demands a ten percent increase in the price.¡±


    Ethan immediately said, ¡°We can¡¯t agree to that. At that price, we¡¯re better off buying from Bluepeak Chips. Their products outperform the ones from the Chapman Group.¡±


    Henley said, ¡°Mr. Mitchell, negotiations are at a deadlock. The Chapman Group won¡¯t lower its price, and Miss Wilson¡¯s quote is also high with poor cost-effectiveness. Maybe it¡¯s time we consider working with BluePeak Chips instead.¡±


    Ethan said, ¡°That would raise our costs significantly and eat into our margins. Our products target the mid-to-low market¡ªwe can¡¯t afford that.¡±


    Just then, Rex entered and bent slightly to whisper to Ethan. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, the vice president of the Chapman Group has just been in a serious car ident in Plomond. A dump truck overturned at an intersection and crushed her car. It¡¯s unlikely she survived.¡±


    A young woman¡¯s eyes sparkled with delight as she joined the lively crowd. ¡°Isn¡¯t that Dalton? Oh my goodness, I absolutely adore him!¡± she eximed, unable to contain her excitement at seeing him in his dashing groomsman attire. She shouted his name with fervor.<fn4041> The source of th?s content is FindN()vel</fn4041>


    Ga lno vel s . takes you into new worlds


    Dalton, catching her gaze, offered a warm wave and a charming smile that only fueled her excitement.


    Boldly, the woman called out to him, ¡°Dalton, how much do they pay you to be a groomsman today? Could I book you for my wedding?¡± Her question sparked a wave ofughter from the onlookers.


    Her friend, equally charmed by Dalton¡¯s charisma, teased her yfully, ¡°Are you serious? Do you have that kind of money?¡±


    Dalton, in a good mood, responded with a grin, ¡°It¡¯s a family wedding today, so I¡¯m here out of love, not for a fee.¡±


    His kind words sent the young woman into a flurry of joy. ¡°Dalton actually spoke to me!¡± she squealed, her face glowing as she hurried closer. ¡°Can we take a photo together, please?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely,¡± Dalton replied graciously, posing patiently as several young women eagerly lined up for photos.


    Meanwhile, Ethan, another striking figure among the groomsmen, drew whispers from the crowd. ¡°Look at him¡ªhe¡¯s even more dashing than a celebrity. Who could he be?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve seen him before¡ªon the cover of a finance magazine. I think he is the CEO of some major corporation!¡±


    ¡°Have you seen those groomsmen? Absolutely handsome!¡±


    ¡°Did you hear? The gifts they brought include multiple property deeds and two luxury cars! The Richardson¡¯s daughter is truly living the dream.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m so jealous! I¡¯ll never see that kind of wealth in my lifetime!¡±


    Despite the Harper family¡¯s efforts to keep the matter low-key, news of the extravagant gifts spread like wildfire online.


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 Chapter 1327

    ?Chapter 1327:


    Dalton¡¯s presence as a groomsman became the talk of the town, with a video of the event soaring to the top of social media trends.


    Brenna stood gracefully beside her parents, listening as her uncle delivered heartfelt blessings while presenting the gifts to the Richardsons.


    Lilith, radiant in an exquisite wedding gown, couldn¡¯t help but marvel at the grandeur surrounding her. Turning to Ernst, she whispered, ¡°I thought we agreed to keep things simple. This feels far from low-key!¡±


    Ernst chuckled softly, his eyes twinkling with affection. ¡°This is low-key, my love. We invited only my closest friends, no extended family or my parents¡¯ acquaintances. Isn¡¯t that modest enough?¡±<fnf067> This text is hosted at Find1Novel</fnf067>


    Lilith¡¯s smile widened, her heart full. ¡°Then what would you call extravagant?¡± she teased.


    ¡°Picture this. A ceremony at a five-star hotel, all of Shirie¡¯s elite in attendance, celebrating our love in grand style, with me swooping in by helicopter to pick you up.¡±


    Lilith¡¯s eyes widened, augh escaping her lips. ¡°A helicopter? That¡¯s beyond my wildest dreams!¡±


    ncing at the towering pile of gifts, she felt a wave of awe. ¡°How much did all this cost?¡±


    Ernst, ever cheerful, replied, ¡°Almost twenty million dors. You wanted understated, so we scaled it back. My father suggested a budget of more than a hundred million.¡±


    ¡°Oh my God!¡± Lilith eximed, her breath catching. Though ustomed to Ernst¡¯svish gifts in the millions, the sheer magnitude of this amount still left her utterly astounded.


    ¡°I hope you like this,¡± Ernst said softly, his voice brimming with sincerity. At the moment of the engagement ring exchange, Ernst gently slipped a dazzling diamond ring onto Lilith¡¯s finger, his touch tender.


    where stories grow


    Lilith, in turn, ced a ring on Ernst¡¯s finger, sealing their bond with quiet grace. The celebration continued as the guests made their way inside the Richardsons¡¯ home and chatted.


    Rosie lingered near Brenna during the ceremony, a subtle pang of envy tugging at her heart. Her wedding to Maxley paled inparison to this opulent affair, and the joy she had hoped for that day had felt fleeting at best.


    In Rosie¡¯s view, Lilith seemed an unsuitable match for Ernst, their family backgrounds worlds apart. How could someone like Lilith be worthy of such grandeur?


    What had Lilith done to earn this cascade of wealth, sprawling estates, and sleek luxury cars that now elevated her to the pinnacle of high society? Rosie noticed neighbors capturing the spectacle, streaming it live across social tforms.


    The Richardsons¡¯ extended family filled their spacious 200-square-meter home with warmth and chatter as everyone gathered to celebrate the asion.


    For lunch, the Richardsons hosted a modest yet heartfelt gathering in a charming banquet hall at a five-star restaurant. Without a formal ceremony, the focus remained on shared moments and the meal.


    Compared to the Harper¡¯svish disy, the Richardsons felt their arrangements were understated. Lilith¡¯s father, with a touch of awkwardness, offered an apology to Shepard.


    ¡°Shepard, I hope you¡¯ll forgive the simplicity of our ns¡­¡±


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 Chapter 1328

    ?Chapter 1328:


    Shepard, understanding their modest roots, appreciated the effort behind securing a reservation in a five-star restaurant.


    ¡°No need for apologies,¡± he replied warmly. ¡°It¡¯s perfect as it is. We¡¯re all delighted, and as long as the children are happy, we parents couldn¡¯t ask for more.¡±


    Lilith¡¯s parents shared a relieved smile. Despite the Harpers¡¯ lofty status, their sincerity and kindness were unmistakable, assuring them that their daughter would be cherished after marrying Ernst.


    Brenna sped Lilith¡¯s hand gently. ¡°You look absolutely radiant today,¡± she said with a smile.


    Lilith beamed, saying, ¡°This dress I¡¯m wearing? It¡¯s a masterpiece designed by your friend¡ªshe even offered me a twenty percent discount!¡±


    Though Brenna hadn¡¯t done much, the day¡¯s events had drained her. By six in the evening, she copsed onto the sofa, too exhausted to move.


    Dalton, equally spent, flopped down beside her.


    ¡°I¡¯m exhausted,¡± he groaned, massaging his cheeks. ¡°This beats a full day of press junkets. Smiling that much? My face hurts.¡±<fn8746> Checktest chapters at Find1Novel</fn8746>


    He nced at Brenna. ¡°You¡¯ll get married to Ethan soon, right? Got a wedding date yet?¡±


    ¡°Not yet,¡± Brenna said. ¡°I just got back, you know. I want more time with Mom and Dad. No hurry to walk down the aisle.¡± She was only twenty-three, and she hadn¡¯t pictured marriage before Ethan entered her life.


    Even now, she was open to it but in no rush¡ªmaybe not until she hit thirty.


    Dalton nodded, understanding her. ¡°Fair enough. We¡¯ve got years to keep each otherpany. I¡¯m not settling down anytime soon, either¡ªprobably won¡¯t even consider it until I¡¯m, like, forty.¡±


    Keep reading on g¦Á?¦Ç¦Òv????s


    Brennaughed. ¡°You¡¯re a star. Marry too soon, and your fans will riot. I hear they call their idols ¡®husbands¡¯ and get jealous when their ¡®husbands¡¯ tie the knot.¡±


    Dalton shook his head, resigned. ¡°You¡¯re not wrong. Some fans are downright wild¡­¡±


    Julia approached, bncing two mugs of coffee, handing one to each.


    After a sip, Brenna felt revived. ¡°Dalton¡­¡±


    She was about to share her ns but paused as Rosie entered. She quickly changed the topic. ¡°I¡¯m thinking ofunching an animation studio, aiming for world-ss special effects.¡±


    Dalton hummed approvingly. ¡°Smart move. Animation¡¯s gaining traction now, with market share climbing yearly. You could pull it off. But you should probably talk it over with Ernst; he knows the market better than me.¡±


    Rosie, catching the conversation, didn¡¯t agree. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t bet on it. Animation¡¯s niche¡ªmostly for younger crowds. Special effects eat cash. Contract work might pay, but original content? That¡¯s a massive gamble.¡±


    Brenna saw Rosie¡¯s point but wasn¡¯t swayed. She hadn¡¯t asked for her input anyway.


    Just then, Ernst, Shepard, and Giselle also returned, all looking tired.


    Julia swiftly brought more coffee, noticing Giselle rubbing her legs and stepping in to lend a hand.


    The next morning, Brenna headed to work and spotted Gracie in the lobby, radiating smug confidence.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you quit?¡± Brenna asked. ¡°What are you back for?¡±


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 Chapter 1329

    ?Chapter 1329:


    Gracie scoffed, brimming with arrogance. ¡°Quit? Never. The Mitchell Group pays too well. Where else would I find a gig this good? I¡¯m sticking around to handle the Chapman Group deal. I¡¯m not going anywhere.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Brenna studied her, sensing no deception.


    After entering her office, Brenna called Ethan for rity.


    Ethan replied, ¡°Gracie¡¯s back on the Chapman project. Mr. Chapman¡¯s wife had a car ident, so he¡¯s handling the deal himself now. He insisted on Gracie taking charge of the project, so I had to agree.¡±


    Brenna sighed. ¡°Convenient timing for Mrs. Chapman¡¯s passing.¡±


    Ethan gave a wry chuckle. ¡°Yeah. Her family suspects foul y in her death, too. They got the police involved, but it was ruled an ident¡ªnothing suspicious.¡±


    ¡°I think Gracie¡¯s plotting something. You¡¯d better have someone keep an eye on her. And Dorsey¡¯s death¡­ it doesn¡¯t sit right. The way Gracie looked at me today, it felt like she was challenging me.¡± That was exactly what Brenna felt, and so she voiced it inly.


    ¡°I also think something is odd,¡± Ethan replied. ¡°Gracie submitted her resignation, then pulled it back out of the blue and refused the new job I found her. It¡¯s like she knew she¡¯d stay. I¡¯ll have someone keep tabs on her.¡± Ethan took Brenna¡¯s warning seriously.


    While they spoke, Rex knocked and entered Ethan¡¯s office. ¡°Sir, Mr. Chapman¡¯s here.¡±


    ¡°For what?¡± Ethan asked, caught off guard¡ªno meeting was scheduled.


    ¡°The project,¡± Rex said. ¡°He wants to discuss pricing himself. We thought the price was too steep, right? We¡¯d agreed with Mrs. Chapman to lower it, and she was on board. But after her ident, Mr. Chapman wants to renegotiate the pricing.¡±


    ¡°Send him in,¡± Ethan said. ¡°And pull our price assessment.¡± He then ended the call with Brenna.


    Updated stories galno¦Íe?s


    Brenna, overhearing that, grew warier of Gracie. For someone with a tarnished reputation in thepany, Gracie¡¯s boldness in sticking around was striking¡ªnot many could pull that off. At noon, Brenna met Ethan for lunch. He¡¯d just seen Waldo out.


    ¡°We didn¡¯t agree on a deal,¡± Ethan said. ¡°Waldo won¡¯t budge on the price. If we press, he says he¡¯ll cancel the whole thing.¡±


    ¡°We can always switch to another supplier. Vand is full of chip manufacturers. He¡¯s not the only one on the market, and with that kind of pricing, we¡¯ll have more than enough options to consider,¡± said Brenna, believing there was no need to get stuck on the matter.


    Ethan gave a firm nod. ¡°Yeah. That¡¯s why I already asked Henley to reach out to five other chip producers and start negotiating.¡±


    ¡°Smart move. My robots, the mechanical dogs, and the robotic arms are all running with chips from Highville Company. Their rates are reasonable, and the quality of their work is excellent. They may not rank among the top five internationally recognized firms, but I¡¯m very satisfied with them,¡± Brenna said, making her rmendation clear.


    Ethan¡¯s smile carried both warmth and affection. ¡°I¡¯ll have Henley pay close attention to their proposal. If the terms work out, we¡¯ll go with them.¡± He felt grateful for arranging those two extra floors for Brenna¡¯s workspace. Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have the chance to see her every day or share lunches with her.


    That evening, when Brenna returned home, Julia eagerly approached her. ¡°Miss Rosie Harper has moved out.¡±


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    .<fna67d> ?????? ???? F¦Énd£Îovel</fna67d>

 Chapter 1330

    Chapter 1330:


    Brenna raised her brows in surprise. ¡°She finally decided to move out? She¡¯s been here far too long.¡±


    Julia replied, ¡°Yes, she has stayed here for more than six months. She suddenly packed a suitcase and left. She said she would be staying in Plieca for a while, but she also mentioned she might return.¡±


    Giselle had just returned from work and had caught their conversation. ¡°She¡¯s nning toe back? That¡¯s not something I¡¯d wee. Maybe she feelsfortable staying here, but I certainly don¡¯t.¡±


    Julia spoke again. ¡°I heard from Rachael that Miss Rosie Harper is furious that you didn¡¯t hand her two houses.¡±


    ¡°She schemes against us constantly, yet she still thinks she deserves houses from me? If not for Tessa, I never would have allowed her to stay here at all.¡± Giselle bristled. The thought left her convinced that Rosie¡¯s sudden return was only to secure her shares.


    Now that Rosie had them, it seemed unlikely she would return again.


    Rosie¡¯s words to Julia were probably just meant to irritate them.


    Brenna noticed her mother¡¯s frustration. ¡°If she dares toe back, I¡¯ll handle it. I¡¯ll make sure she leaves.¡±


    Her tone sharpened. ¡°She¡¯s been a thorn in our side for too long. I can¡¯t let her walk away without consequences.¡±


    Giselle nodded with conviction. ¡°She¡¯s shameless, always hiding behind your grandmother, thinking we wouldn¡¯t dare push back.¡±


    Brenna reached for her phone and showed Giselle a few photos she had just received.


    ¡°Take a look. The head of our new Plieca branch just sent me these. That¡¯s Maxley with his new wife, Bonita, smiling at some event. Don¡¯t they look happy together?¡±


    g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s©qc??m has it all


    The sight instantly brightened Giselle¡¯s mood. ¡°So that exins Rosie¡¯s sudden departure. Her husband has been swept away by another woman. Well, I think she deserves every bit of it.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll make sure her path gets rougher. She has a few businesses running smoothly in Plieca, and all of them are profitable. Why should someone like her enjoy that kind of sess? I will make things difficult for her.¡±


    Brenna already had photographs from the incident when Rosie had been beaten up, nning to spread them across Plieca¡¯s most active forums.


    ¡°Leave herpanies for your brother to deal with. You shouldn¡¯t waste your energy on that,¡± Giselle said.


    She quickly called Ernst, muttering, ¡°This time, we¡¯ll bury her in problems. Does she really think she can just push us around without facing any consequences?¡±


    Not long after, the rest of the family returned. Shepard¡¯s expression gave away his frustration.


    Giselle walked over. ¡°What¡¯s the matter? Did something go wrong?¡±


    Shepard released a weary sigh. ¡°The weather¡¯s turning cold, and my mother caught a chill. Her health isn¡¯t strong anymore. I¡¯ll bring her to stay here tomorrow.¡±


    Although Giselle had only a lukewarm bond with Tessa, she kept up appearances. With so many maids in the household, she wouldn¡¯t be troubled by the responsibility of taking care of her. ¡°That¡¯s fine. Let her stay here. The estate is too empty for her, and being around us will at least make her feel less lonely.¡±


    Shepard lowered himself onto the sofa, his shoulders heavy. ¡°Ever since my father passed, my mother¡¯s condition has been getting worse. The local doctor checks in on her every week. She barely eats, hardly sleeps, and spends most of her time sitting in silence.¡±


    .<fn0c25> Official source is find{n}ovel</fn0c25>


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    Message from Noah: New content avable, please enjoy it dear ones. God loves you and Noah wishes you all the best. ¡°?? ????? ??


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 Chapter 1331

    ?Chapter 1331:


    Ernst offered his support. ¡°Then bring Grandma here. I have no objections.¡±


    Brenna agreed without hesitation. ¡°Bring her over. If she refuses, she can stay with Uncle Ableson instead.¡±


    Looking at his children, Shepard voiced what had been weighing on him. ¡°Your grandmother doesn¡¯t want to stay in this house anymore. Every corner reminds her of your grandfather. Haven¡¯t you noticed she didn¡¯t smile once while being here?¡±


    Giselle spoke inly. ¡°Then let her stay with Ableson. There¡¯s no sense in forcing her to live here.¡±


    Her words eased Shepard¡¯s tension. He said, ¡°I know you don¡¯t want her to live here. I¡¯ll go to Ableson¡¯s ceter and see if he¡¯s willing to take her in.¡±


    Shepard was far from pleased with Tessa¡¯s decision, deeply reluctant to part with the shares and give them to Rosie. The shares had been gifted to him by Luther, not something he had taken by force.


    Yet Tessa had remained resolute, adamantly insisting that the Harper family men surrender their stakes.


    Perhaps the grief over her youngest son¡¯s untimely passing had clouded her judgment.


    That seemed the most likely exnation.


    Shepard had quietly discussed the matter with Giselle and shared an open, heartfelt talk with Ernst about it.


    Nobody relished the idea of relinquishing their wealth, and though Shepardplied to avoid distressing his mother, he felt unfairly treated.


    Ernst shared his frustration, questioning why Tessa could override Luther¡¯s decisions.<fn24dc> Get full chapters from F?nd-Novel</fn24dc>


    So when Brenna proposed dealing with Rosie in Plieca, no one in the Harper household objected. Resentment toward Rosie simmered beneath the surface for all.


    Discover stories now galnov??s.c?m


    After dinner, Shepard promptly sought out Ableson to discuss the matter.


    The following day, he and Ableson went to the manor to bring Tessa over. Tessa declined to stay at Shepard¡¯s home, choosing instead to reside at Ableson¡¯s ce.


    Despite Ableson¡¯s disability requiring assistance, his home was well-staffed with attentive servants, ensuring Tessa¡¯sfort.


    Rosie had returned to Plieca two days ago, and she and Maxley had amodations in the pce.


    Despite its grand title, the pce was essentially an expansive estateprising multiple structures. The central building, ornately adorned, served as both the home and work area for the King and Queen.


    Surrounding it were structures housing the princes, their wives, and concubines. Rosie and Maxley upied one such building.


    In truth, Rosie found the pceckingpared to Vand¡¯s royalplexes.


    As a prominent prince, Maxley stillcked his own pce, forced to share the ce with others.


    Rosie had recently purchased a manor in Vand¡ªa smaller, yet far more refined ce than their residence in Plieca.


    This was partly why Maxley preferred staying in Vand; it offeredfort and ease.


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 Chapter 1332

    ?Chapter 1332:


    Their floor in the Plieca building included a spacious but dated living room, which hadn¡¯t been renovated in years, with outdated amenities.


    Though the ce was equipped with two living rooms¡ªonerge for guests, and one smaller for private moments¡ªand staffed by numerous servants, Rosie couldn¡¯t bring herself to like it. The pce didn¡¯t feel like home. The servants¡¯ constant presence seemed less like service and more like surveince, scrutinizing her every action.


    To top it off, Maxley¡¯s new love, Bonita, seemed to make everything worse. The unmistakable sounds of intimacy between Maxley and Bonita, who was unabashedly vocal, grated on Rosie¡¯s nerves.


    ¡°How shameless!¡±


    That morning, upon learning of Rosie¡¯s return, Maxley visited her room. Lounging on the sofa across from her, he said, ¡°Bonita is kind and holds you in high regard.¡±<fnb6ab> ???? ????s? ???????s ?? Find¡ïNovel</fnb6ab>


    Bonita stood nearby, her beauty soft and graceful. She was nearly the same age as Rosie, radiating a delicate charm.


    Rosie¡¯s primary concern, however, was Bonita¡¯s father, a prominent Plieca magnate whose political influence was undeniable.


    It was clear that Bonita¡¯s presence gave Maxley a significant advantage.


    Rosie shot Bonita a look of disdain.


    ¡°You married her without my approval, Maxley. That was inappropriate,¡± Rosie said sharply, frustration etched across her face.


    Maxley lounged on the sofa, one leg crossed over the other, his arm casually draped over the armrest, exuding confidence. He was a far cry from the overlooked prince he had been when Rosie had first met him.


    Back then, he had few allies.


    Step into fiction with  .


    Now, thanks to Rosie¡¯s tireless efforts, hemanded a strong following, and his demeanor toward her had shifted noticeably.


    ¡°Rosie, Bonita¡¯s father supports me greatly. I married her to solidify my status,¡± Maxley replied coolly.


    Bonita remained unperturbed by her role as a strategic asset; her family¡¯s pride swelled by her royal marriage.


    She said, ¡°My father is fullymitted to Maxley¡¯s pursuit of the throne. Rosie, I hold you in the highest regard.¡±


    Rosie¡¯s gaze hardened, her anger simmering beneath the surface.


    She found Bonita¡¯s demeanor repulsive.


    Bonita pressed on, undeterred. ¡°We should unite to strengthen Maxley¡¯s campaign for the crown. Today, we¡¯re heading to Parliament to sway the members and secure their votes for the future. Rosie, let¡¯s go together.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not going!¡± Rosie snapped, the words escaping before she could stop them.


    Even if she considered going, she wouldn¡¯t do so with another woman by her side.


    She had no intention of sharing her partner¡¯s affections with anyone else. All she wanted now was to escape this suffocating situation.


    For several days in a row, Rosie scrolled through Plieca¡¯s forums, where photos of Maxley and Bonita attending events together flooded her screen. At these gatherings, Maxley spoke with fiery conviction, winning the public¡¯s favor. Meanwhile, two other contenders for the throne¡ªBaxter Gibran and Bradley Gibran¡ªalso stepped boldly into the spotlight, rallying their own supporters and turning the battle for session into a storm.


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 Chapter 1333

    ?Chapter 1333:


    A knot of unease settled in Rosie¡¯s chest. If she refused to back Maxley¡¯s campaign and he lost his bid for the throne, her future would dim as well. So, despite the sickness she felt at seeing Maxley with Bonita, she continued to provide him withrge sums of money to support him.


    However, she refused to use a single share of the Harper Group.


    The dividends would be released at the year¡¯s end. With weeks still left on the calendar, she had already decided that she would never use them for Maxley¡¯s cause. That money would remain a safeguard for her, no matter how desperate Maxley became.


    Later that night, a group of politicians pledged their loyalty to Maxley, all thanks to Rosie¡¯s efforts and her money.


    Close to midnight, Maxley finally returned from an evening of wining and dining. Light spilled from under Rosie¡¯s door, so he knocked before stepping inside.


    ¡°Honey, everything I¡¯ve gained is because of your support, and I can¡¯t thank you enough,¡± he said.


    Rosie, still angry with him, let the sharp edge of her voice cut through. ¡°You¡¯re my husband; you don¡¯t need to thank me. We¡¯re bound together, whether in triumph or ruin, aren¡¯t we?¡±


    Maxley drew her into his arms and brushed a kiss across her forehead. Rosie recoiled, the memory of Bonita¡¯s moans still lingering in her mind. She shoved him away. ¡°I don¡¯t feel well.¡±


    ¡°Are you jealous?¡± Maxley asked, his voice softening. ¡°Rosie, no matter how many wives I take in the years ahead, you¡¯ll always hold the highest ce in my heart. I¡¯d be nothing without you, and I know that better than anyone.¡±<fn97df> Readplete version only at Find[?]ovel</fn97df>


    Rosie admitted that his wordsforted her, yet the image of him lying with Bonita clung to her like a curse. epting it felt unbearable, but she allowed his closeness anyway, knowing that nights like this would only multiply. She forced herself to bear everything.


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    Lately, a sharp ache had been pressing against her chest. Yesterday, she had gone to the hospital, where the physician had warned her to ease her burdens and guard against stress.


    She felt the effects of her stress manifesting as physical difort, likely aggravated by Maxley¡¯s behavior.


    If she let things continue like this, her health would only deteriorate further. She knew she had to address the root of the problem.


    By the following morning, Rosie made her way to TechNova Electronics, the most powerful corporation in Plieca.


    Inside the conference room, executives from her eight differentpanies had gathered.


    ¡°We¡¯re backing Maxley¡¯s campaign for the crown. I¡¯ve seen the effort each of you has put into it. When the year closes, a generous reward will await you. I appreciate everything you¡¯ve done,¡± Rosie said.


    Coleman Juarez, a middle-aged man, let out a warmugh. ¡°If Prince Maxley rises to the throne, the gains for us will be immeasurable. We all recognize that, and we¡¯ll give everything we have to help him win.¡± The others voiced theirmitment as well.


    Pleased with their responses, Rosie leaned forward. ¡°At present, I¡¯m facing a delicate problem that I need your help with.¡±


    Coleman straightened his posture, his tone shifting to one of seriousness. ¡°Please share it with us. Together, we can devise a solution. With so many minds here, nothing is beyond our reach.¡±


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 Chapter 1334

    ?Chapter 1334:


    Rosie gave a faint smile, uncertain whether they would fully understand what she meant.


    She said, ¡°Now that Bonita has stepped in to aid Maxley, bringing her father¡¯s wealth and influence to his side, I can¡¯t help but fear for what lies ahead¡­¡± The men were sharp, and the message in Rosie¡¯s words didn¡¯t go unnoticed.


    Six of them caught her meaning immediately.


    The other two remained silent, pretending not to follow her words.


    Coleman responded firmly, ¡°This is the time for us to stand as one and ensure Prince Maxley ims the throne. We cannot afford any fractures among ourselves. Even if Bonita displeases you, you cannot act directly.¡±


    L Hinchcliffe, seated next to Coleman, quickly spoke up. ¡°That¡¯s right. You don¡¯t need to worry, Mrs. Gibran. With us supporting you, no woman will ever threaten your standing.¡±


    Rosie smiled in approval, pleased to see they understood her intent. When the right moment arrived, she wouldn¡¯t need to lift a finger. These men would take care of Bonita for her.


    ¡°Exactly. It¡¯s too soon to make any bold moves. For now, let¡¯s focus on strengthening ties with Plieca¡¯s wealthiest businessmen and preparing for next week¡¯s g.¡±


    Once Rosie¡¯s meeting concluded, Brenna was informed of Rosie¡¯s ns.


    Her informant said, ¡°Ourpany representatives will be at the g. Do you want us to intervene?¡±


    Brenna replied in a calm, controlled tone, ¡°No need for that. Just gather the details and pass them to me. I¡¯ll ensure someone else handles the rest.¡± She quickly forwarded the g date and location to Braeden.


    Braeden responded without dy, ¡°Understood. My team has been quietly monitoring movements in Plieca for the past two days, keeping a close watch on Rosie and Maxley. When the right momentes, we¡¯ll act. Also, stay vignt. Customs just intercepted eight internationally ranked assassins, and during their interrogation, one admitted they were sent for you.¡±


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    A chill crept into Brenna¡¯s voice. ¡°If Rosie dares return to the country, I won¡¯t let her live.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry; she won¡¯t have the chance toe back.¡±


    As the clock struck six, Isabe prepared to leave the office, only for her phone to start ringing. She nced at the screen, saw Ruby¡¯s name shing, and immediately declined the call. To her, Ruby and Alec were people of the past. Their choices, their lives, had nothing to do with her anymore. All she wanted now was stability¡ªher own job, her own ie, and a life that belonged to her alone. Marriage wasn¡¯t even on her list of ns. She had epted that decent men were hard toe by and poured her energy into living independently instead.


    Momentster, her phone lit up again, and Ruby¡¯s name shed across the screen. Isabe pressed decline again. But Ruby didn¡¯t stop. Her calls came one after another until Isabe finally picked up, her voiceced with irritation.


    ¡°What is it this time? Didn¡¯t I already tell you not to bother me unless it¡¯s truly important? I¡¯m busy with work.¡±


    Ruby, with enough savings now to livefortably through old age, was searching for someone to take care of her. Her son was no longer an option. She had gone to see him several times, and while he had allowed it, he hardly resembled the son she remembered. He was now thin, hollow-eyed, and quick to explode. He even drove her away with threats, swearing he would kill her if she dared toe back. Since then, Ruby had given up on Mack entirely. The only person she could rely on now was Isabe.


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    .<fn1320> Chapters first released on Find[?]ovel</fn1320>

 Chapter 1335

    ?Chapter 1335:


    ¡°Isabe, I miss you. I cooked all your favorite dishes. Come by for dinner tonight. I need to talk to you¡­¡± Ruby¡¯s voice broke as she began to sob. ¡°I¡¯m the only one caring for your father now. He wets the bed every single day, and it¡¯s too much for me alone. We have to figure out what to do about him. I¡¯m worn out, Isabe. My legs ache constantly, my stomach hasn¡¯t been right, and the clinic told me I¡¯ve got high blood pressure. Please, have somepassion for me.¡±


    Ruby kept pouring out herints, and Isabe grew impatient.


    ¡°Enough. I¡¯ll go home to visit you,¡± Isabe said.


    Even though she had promised herself to cut ties with the Barrett family, Isabe still found herself returning home.


    When she stepped inside, the house looked nearly the same as before. Ruby had kept everything spotless, and from the kitchen came the savory aroma of braised ribs, thick and mouthwatering. Isabe caught the scent and reluctantly admitted it smelled good.


    Hearing the front door, Ruby walked out of the kitchen. ¡°Isabe, sit down. Dinner will be served shortly. I made all your favorite dishes.¡±


    Isabe remained unimpressed. She could always prepare her own meals or eat out if she pleased. Food wasn¡¯t something that would sway her.


    ¡°Just get to the point. I don¡¯t have much time,¡± she said.


    Ruby urged her toward a chair. ¡°You can¡¯t leave before eating. I cooked a lot for you, got so much to share. Once dinner¡¯s on the table, we can talk. You don¡¯t need to worry; I have enough savings, and I won¡¯t ask you for money.¡± Hearing that, Isabe gave her a brief nod.


    ¡°Isabe! Isabe¡­¡± A muffled voice suddenly echoed, followed by the crash of something falling to the floor.


    Ruby grabbed Isabe¡¯s arm. ¡°Don¡¯t mind him! He¡¯s okay.¡±


    M?§Ô? ??????? ?? ??l????l?.???


    Isabe knew at once it was Alec calling for her. Her expression turned cold.


    ¡°I¡¯ll check on him. You get back to the kitchen.¡±


    Ruby tried to stop her. That room was thest ce she wanted Isabe to see. Isabe pushed the door open, and a wave of stench rolled out. She frowned at the sight before her.


    The room had once belonged to Mack, always orderly and smelling clean. Now, though the same bedding remained, the ce was filthy.


    The sheets and mattress were smeared with waste and yellowed blotches. ¡°This is disgusting.¡± Isabe pulled out her phone, took several photos, and sent them to Brenna before turning her eyes back to Alec.


    In just a few months, he had wasted away¡ªhair grayed, cheeks sunken, his frame little more than bones beneath the skin.


    He looked utterly wretched.


    Isabe wondered whether Brenna might be satisfied to see these photos of Alec.


    Covering her nose against the foul odor, Isabe prepared to walk away. Then, she noticed the floor, sticky and grimy, clearly untouched by a mop for days.


    ¡°Isabe, your mother mistreats me,¡± Alec¡¯s voice trembled as he began to sob, his chest rising with each word, tears soaking the pillow again.


    ¡°She beats me every day. Look at me¡­¡± Alec gestured weakly with his free hand, pointing at his face and arm. In the dim light, Isabe caught sight of several half-healed wounds.


    ¡°It hurts¡­¡± he cried, stretching his hand toward her.<fn86b3> Follow current nov?ls on ?ovelFind</fn86b3>


    .


    .


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 Chapter 1336

    ?Chapter 1336:


    Isabe pulled back. ¡°I¡¯ll speak with her.¡±


    ¡°Isabe, you¡¯re my child. Don¡¯t abandon me in this ce. Take me in; I can¡¯t remain with your mother any longer. She has drained my savings and signed the house over to herself. Help me reim everything, and when I pass, it will all belong to you¡­¡±


    Alec muttered brokenly, his voice tangled with sobs. He kept repeating himself, but Isabe couldn¡¯t piece together his meaning, no matter how hard she tried. Leaning closer, Isabe furrowed her brow, straining to catch his words. ¡°I can¡¯t understand what you¡¯re saying.¡±


    Alec¡¯s frustration grew. Though his body was unresponsive, his mind remained sharp. He was painfully aware that he had no way to step outside, no means to seek help, and no chance to expose Ruby¡¯s cruelty. His only hopey in the rare visits from others.<fn4efa> Checktest chapters at </fn4efa>


    Today, Isabe hade, and he clung to the chance of persuading her to act, to somehow change his situation. Should she take pity, maybe she would agree to let him move in with her, and his days might finally improve.


    He pushed himself to form the words clearly. In his own mind, everything was precise, but to others, it came out garbled and iprehensible. He kept repeating himself, yet Isabe still couldn¡¯t understand him. Ruby, on the other hand, understood him. She had already anticipated Alec¡¯sints and had tried to prevent Isabe from entering his room.


    She feared that once Isabe saw Alec¡¯s current state, she would lose her temper,sh out, and me her for not treating him well.


    Ruby studied Isabe¡¯s face nervously, bracing herself for harsh words, yet none came. She noticed Isabe¡¯s expression¡ªdisgust was written across her features, and there was no anger or sympathy for Alec. When Alec stretched out his hand toward her, Isabe even moved away.


    Only then did Ruby feel the tension ease from her chest. She tapped Alec¡¯s hand with a clothes hanger. ¡°Keep your hand away!¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s hitting me again! Isabe, look¡­¡± Alec lifted a trembling finger at Ruby, crying out once more, ¡°Isabe¡­¡±


    His tears carried the weight of deep grievance. Isabe regarded him with a detached expression, pulled out her phone, snapped several photos of him, and sent them to Brenna.


    She recalled how Ruby had spoken countless times about Alec mistreating Brenna when she had been a kid, and about her own cruelty toward Brenna. Back then,


    Isabe had once pitied Brenna, but Ruby had recounted those memories with ease, without the faintest hint of regret, even iming she hadn¡¯t gone far enough. Now, Isabe wondered if Brenna might take satisfaction in seeing Alec reduced to his current state.


    ¡°Stop yelling,¡± Isabe said to Alec, forwarding the pictures before slipping her phone back into her bag with irritation.


    At first, Alec had believed Isabe was taking the photos to expose Ruby, but it soon became clear that wasn¡¯t her intention.


    ¡°Isabe, don¡¯t forget I¡¯m your father. You shouldn¡¯t treat me this way. Get me out of here, let me live with you, and I¡¯ll leave the house to you. Help me sue your mother¡­¡±


    Isabe waved her hand in front of her nose. ¡°It reeks in here. I¡¯m leaving.¡± She turned without hesitation.


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 Chapter 1337

    ?Chapter 1337:


    As she stepped out, Ruby struck Alec harder with the hanger. ¡°Behave! Keep quiet, or I¡¯ll leave you without food!¡±


    Even as the blowsnded, Alec refused to give up. He continued to try to win his daughter¡¯s sympathy, knowing that if he lost this chance, he might never get another.


    The louder he shouted, the harsher Ruby¡¯s strikes became. From outside, Isabe listened to the noise¡ªthe screams, curses, and cries¡ªand grew annoyed.


    After nearly ten minutes, Ruby stepped out of the bedroom with a bright smile, warmly inviting Isabe to sit down at the table for a meal.


    The table was piled with dishes, their rich aroma drifting into Alec¡¯s room and stirring his empty stomach. He hadn¡¯t eaten in an entire day and night, and hunger gnawed at him.


    His cries began again. ¡°Starving¡­¡±


    ¡°Just ignore him; let¡¯s eat,¡± Ruby said, serving Isabe food with a ttering smile. ¡°He had iting. He¡¯s done so many terrible things before, and this is his punishment. Don¡¯t pity him. I look after him, yet he curses me and even tries to hit me¡­¡±


    Ruby went onining about Alec.


    Isabe, however, acted as though she hadn¡¯t heard a word. Nothing Ruby said could change what was obvious; Alec¡¯s state told the real story¡ªRuby had been the one mistreating him.


    ¡°Why did you ask me toe here?¡± Isabe asked, her face calm as she looked across the table. Though her te was stacked with food, her appetite had disappeared. The image of Alec¡¯s filthy room made eating impossible for her.


    She decided to hear what this was about and leave as soon as possible. ¡°Oh, nothing important. I just missed you. You¡¯re my daughter. I didn¡¯t get to raise you when you were little, and now I¡¯d like to spend more time with you. You¡¯ve been distanttely, so I wanted a chance to see you.¡± Ruby was testing her daughter¡¯s mood, confused by Isabe¡¯s sudden detachment.


    I??€$? ¡é?@t?€§ñ$ I¦Ç g??§Úov¦Å??.c?m


    She took Isabe¡¯s hand in hers. ¡°Will youe visit me more often? I won¡¯t ask you for money. I have all of your father¡¯s money, and it¡¯s plenty for me to livefortably as I grow old. What I truly want is for you to visit me more.¡±


    Isabe¡¯s face betrayed nothing, her indifference leaving Ruby anxious, unable to tell what was running through her daughter¡¯s mind.


    ¡°Isabe, I¡¯m still your mother,¡± Ruby said softly, her voice tinged with humility.


    With a dismissive tone, Isabe replied, ¡°I¡¯lle visit you when I have time in the future.¡± The timing of such a visit, of course, would depend entirely on her mood. ¡°It¡¯ste, and the roads aren¡¯t safe at night. If there¡¯s nothing more, I¡¯ll be on my way.¡± Isabe stood up, picked up her bag, and headed for the door.


    Ruby¡¯s chest ached as she watched, bewildered by the distance her daughter had ced between them. Why wouldn¡¯t Isabe open up to her anymore?


    ¡°Pleasee visit me more often, Isabe,¡± Ruby said gently, following her with careful steps, afraid to say anything that might provoke her.


    After a pause, she added, ¡°I cooked all your favorites tonight. Would you like to take some with you?¡±


    Isabe had already stepped outside, her expression cold. ¡°No, thanks.¡±


    Ruby stood helplessly as her daughter entered the elevator, the doors closing with finality. A heavy sigh slipped from her lips. Both her children had abandoned her.


    Shuffling back inside, she lowered herself at the dining table, staring at the untouched tes of food. Her mind swirled with questions, unable to grasp how everything had turned out this way.<fn1567> Latest content published on FindN0vel</fn1567>


    ¡°Mom.¡±


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 Chapter 1338

    ?Chapter 1338:


    Just then, the sound of the door startled her. Mack stepped inside, his stride unsteady, his eyes restless as if searching for something. Ruby rushed toward him at once. ¡°Mack, you¡¯re finally home.¡±<fn834a> This update is avable on F¦Énd£Îovel</fn834a>


    A look at him left her stunned. Though it hadn¡¯t been long since theirst meeting, he seemed like apletely different man.


    He was unshaven, withrge dark circles under his eyes. He had lost a lot of weight, and his demeanor was intimidating, almost hostile.


    ¡°What happened to you? Why do you look like this? Are you sick? Come with me¡ªI¡¯ll take you to the hospital,¡± Ruby said.


    Mack shoved Ruby aside with irritation. ¡°No need for that. Is there food or not? I¡¯m starving.¡±


    The demand in his tone carried an authority that brooked no refusal.


    Ruby quickly pointed toward the table. ¡°I just cooked.¡±


    Without bothering to wash his hands, Mack dropped into a chair and began stuffing food into his mouth.


    In no time, he had cleared the te Isabe had left behind.


    Then, he snatched Ruby¡¯s te.


    Ruby said worriedly, ¡°How long has it been since you¡¯ve eaten properly? You shouldn¡¯t let yourself starve like this. If you¡¯re hungry,e home, and I¡¯ll cook for you¡­¡±


    Though her chatter grated on him, Mack kept silent and continued eating. Only after half an hour, when his hunger was satisfied, did he lean back, pat his stomach, and say bluntly, ¡°Mom, I¡¯m broke. Give me some money.¡±


    The truth was, he had already burned through over a million on drugs, leaving himself penniless and behind on rent.


    L?t??¦Ó ch?¦Ñ¦Ó?rs ¦Én g??l?ov?l??.??§à??


    Ruby hesitated. She still had some savings set aside for her old age, but she didn¡¯t want to hand it over to him.


    ¡°I don¡¯t have money lying around, Mack. What¡¯s been going on with you? Why are you wasting time in those clubs?¡± Ruby¡¯s voice trembled as she looked at the hardened expression on Mack¡¯s face. This wasn¡¯t the son she remembered¡ªhe had once been kind, capable, always smiling. How had he changed so much?


    ¡°Give your money to me now!¡± Mack roared, and Ruby recoiled in fear.


    ¡°I swear, I don¡¯t have any money!¡± Ruby said, refusing to give in.


    In a sh, Mack yanked her forward, dug into her pocket, and pulled out her phone.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Ruby realized something was wrong¡ªMack was likely about to transfer her money to himself. She desperately tried to grab her phone back.


    Mack shoved her aside and moved his fingers over the screen.


    Ruby staggered against the dining table. Pain shot through her lower back.


    ¡°Hand my phone back right now!¡± she eximed.


    Reaching out for the phone proved impossible; every movement sent jolts of pain through her body, making her unable to move.


    Mack discovered one of Ruby¡¯s bank ounts had fifty thousand dors and transferred the money to himself without hesitation.


    Fifty thousand would be enough for him tost a few days.


    After tossing the phone onto the table, he turned to leave. But then a sudden wave of difort hit him, like swarms of ants crawling beneath his skin. The sensation raced through him.


    His body copsed onto the floor, curling tightly in agony.


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 Chapter 1339

    ?Chapter 1339:


    Ruby¡¯s stomach dropped. ¡°Mack, what¡¯s happening to you?¡±


    She wasn¡¯t sure what hade over Mack, but recalling how long he had been fiddling with her phone, she quickly checked it.


    Her heart nearly stopped¡ªthe fifty thousand in her ount was gone.


    She looked at her son, bitterness welling in her eyes.


    When he stayed away, life felt lighter. When he came back, it was always about money. She wished he would stop showing up altogether.


    Her eyes turned cold as she watched him writhe. He fumbled out a stic bag, emptied the white powder into his mouth, and gradually calmed down. A thought urred to Ruby as she saw that, and she took two steps back.


    The truth was unbearable. Her son was tangled up in drugs.<fnfa60> The rightful source is find(?)ovel</fnfa60>


    Still, she forced concern into her voice as she moved closer to him. ¡°Mack, are you alright?¡±


    Staggering to his feet, Mack shoved her aside. ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±


    Mack couldn¡¯t help but think that fifty thousand dors would disappear in no time, hardly enough to satisfy him. He shot a threatening re at Ruby. ¡°Hand over all the money you¡¯ve got.¡±


    Ruby had never seen her son look so intimidating. Fear crept in as she took a few steps back, clutching her pocket tightly. ¡°There¡¯s nothing left; I¡¯m broke. Every time you show up, it¡¯s just to ask for money. Do you ever think about your father? I¡¯m the one caring for him day in and day out. Do you ever think about him?¡±


    Alec¡¯s voice suddenly cut through the tension from another room, desperate and loud. ¡°Who¡¯s out there? Somebody help! I¡¯m starving in here¡­¡±


    A heavy thump echoed, as if something had hit the floor. But Ruby¡¯s mind wasn¡¯t on Alec. At this point, all she cared about was hanging on to her money. She wasn¡¯t about to hand it over to either of her children.


    ?????????????????.c??m hosts thetest


    Mack saw right through her act. He pulled Ruby¡¯s hand away and snatched her phone. His eyes burned with anger as he gritted his teeth. ¡°Send every cent to my ount, or I swear I¡¯ll kill you!¡±


    A knife appeared in his fist, the de shing dangerously as he aimed it at Ruby. ¡°Do it. Now.¡±


    Ruby¡¯s voice broke, equal parts hurt and shocked. ¡°I¡¯m your mother! How could you threaten me like this?¡±


    Her heart twisted with pain. She had never imagined her own son would go this far.


    ¡°Drop the act. Aren¡¯t you my mother? You can¡¯t even give me some money? When you die, won¡¯t all your money be mine? So stop stalling!¡± Mack eximed. His rage boiled over, and he sent the dining table crashing to the floor.


    Ruby shook with terror. ¡°Mack, I can¡¯t give you my money. Without it, how am I supposed to survive? I am old and can¡¯t work anymore.¡±


    Mack¡¯s anger exploded. ¡°Of course. It¡¯s always about you, isn¡¯t it? You never once cared about me. Selfish to the end.¡±


    He pulled up the banking app on her phone. With a few taps, he drained her ount, transferring every penny into his own.


    ¡°Please, don¡¯t do this to me. How am I supposed to live with nothing left? I can¡¯t believe you¡¯d do this to me! I am your mother!¡± Ruby, desperate and heartbroken, lunged to snatch her phone away from him.


    ¡°Stay out of my way!¡± Mack snapped, kicking her.


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 Chapter 1340

    ?Chapter 1340:


    Ruby fell to the floor, stunned, unable to get up right away. Once every cent hadnded in his ount, Mack tossed her phone onto the floor.


    Ruby grabbed it with trembling hands and checked her bnce, her heart dropping at the sight of just a few dors left.


    ¡°You¡¯re a monster¡­¡±


    Alec dragged himself out of the bedroom, catching only a glimpse of Mack¡¯s back as he left.


    The sight of Alec sent Ruby into a frenzy. She snatched a clothes hanger and swung it at him in rage.


    ¡°This is your fault! We¡¯re broke because of you! We¡¯ll be lucky if we have crumbs to eat now. I still have to look after you. Why did I have to get stuck with a useless man like you? You¡¯ve ruined everything¡­¡±


    Sheshed out harder and harder, unleashing all her pent-up bitterness on Alec. Meanwhile, Brenna sat at the dining table, looking at the photos Isabe had sent. Her expression grew cold.


    ¡°You deserve every bit of this. Your real punishment hasn¡¯t even begun,¡± she muttered.


    Just then, the front door opened, and Giselle stepped in, arms full of shopping bags. She immediately noticed the tension on Brenna¡¯s face. ¡°What happened? Are you in a bad mood?¡±


    Brenna put her phone away and reached for the bags Giselle brought in. Inside, she found a wool coat, two brand-new designer purses, a luxury skincare set, fresh shoes, and some trendy clothes Giselle had picked up for her.


    ¡°Pick whichever handbag you like, and set the other aside for Lilith. Drop it off for her tomorrow and say it¡¯s from you. It¡¯s important to keep things warm between you two. Your brother¡¯s getting married to her soon, so we should treat her well,¡± Giselle said, washing her hands before settling in at the table.


    Stories live now on g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s.c¦Ïm


    ¡°Alright,¡± Brenna replied. ¡°I¡¯ll handle it tomorrow.¡±


    Giselle said, ¡°If you eat out with her, the bill¡¯s on you. Don¡¯t let Lilith pay for anything, got it? After lunch, take her shopping, and get her whatever she wants.¡± She pulled


    Out her phone, Giselle wired Brenna ten million on the spot. ¡°Don¡¯t hold back.¡±<fnc50e> Follow current nov?ls on F?ndNovel</fnc50e>


    Brennaughed. ¡°Mom, I¡¯m not short on money. You don¡¯t need to transfer me more.¡±


    But Giselle just shook her head. ¡°Younger folks spend more, so save what¡¯s yours. My money is meant for you to enjoy. I¡¯ve already set aside my pension. Besides, I heard you¡¯re opening an animation studio. That must need a lot of money, right? If you need more funds, just ask your dad; don¡¯t be shy about it. And if you are too shy, I¡¯ll ask him for you.¡±


    ¡°I really do have enough money, Mom. Why are you always worried I¡¯m broke? Sure, I don¡¯t own manypanies, but mine are all profitable,¡± Brenna said, still smiling.


    Giselle gave Brenna a look. ¡°It¡¯s important for young people to be financially secure. Use your money when you need it. Just look at the family shares. Your grandma already handed a lot to Rosie. Our family¡¯s got more money than we could ever spend. If you just hoard it, one day, it¡¯ll end up belonging to someone else.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not a guarantee that the shares will stay with Rosie,¡± Brenna said.


    Shepard slipped into the room just as the conversation unfolded, shing Giselle a mysterious smile. ¡°Our family¡¯s shares aren¡¯t handed out lightly. Rosie¡¯s schemed against us time and again¡ªwhy would we simply give her what she wants?¡±


    His face darkened briefly. A few days ago, Brenna had shared some troubling news with him, but he and Ernst had kept it from Giselle to spare her worry. Instead, they had quietly arranged for someone to protect her discreetly.


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 Chapter 1341

    ?Chapter 1341:


    Just then, Ernst strolled in, loosening his tie and passing it, along with his coat, to Julia with a casual air.<fnb737> Checktest chapters at F?ndNovel</fnb737>


    Giselle¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°Are you hiding something from me?¡±


    Shepard settled beside her, his tone reassuring. ¡°Nothing to worry about. Our son¡¯s wedding is approaching, and you¡¯ll have your hands full managing it. You¡¯ve been working so hardtely.¡±


    He reached into his jacket, pulled out a small velvet box, and offered it to her.


    ¡°Take a look¡ªdo you like it?¡±


    Ernst and Brenna exchanged amused nces, their smiles warm.


    Giselle flushed slightly. ¡°We¡¯ve been together for so long, and you¡¯re still giving me gifts?¡±


    Despite her words, she epted the gift and opened the box to find a pair of rare golden pearl earrings.


    ¡°They are gorgeous¡­¡± Giselle¡¯s voice softened, her heart warmed by Shepard¡¯s thoughtfulness.


    Brenna said, ¡°They suit you well.¡±


    The next day was the weekend. Brenna slept in until ten, applied a touch of makeup, and set out to meet Lilith, with Libby and Finley tagging along, Finley at the wheel. Even on a casual outing, Finley stayed vignt, scanning for anything suspicious.


    Lilith, a finance student, had been ced by Ernst in the Harper Group¡¯s finance department; she was starting at an entry-level role to hone her skills. Ernst¡¯s long-term n was to involve her in thepany¡¯s investment projects, eventually setting her up to run a venture capital firm once she had gained enough experience, given the Harper Group¡¯s extensive annual investments.


    Fresh chapters are live at g¦Á?¦Ç¦Òv???s


    Lilith waited outside her home for Brenna, bundled in a white knee-length down coat.


    The car pulled up smoothly, and Brenna leaned out the window with a cheerful wave. ¡°Lilith, jump in!¡±


    Despite the cold weather, the car¡¯s cozy interior enveloped Lilith in warmth. ¡°It¡¯s so cozy in here,¡± she said, settling in.


    The car left the neighborhood, and Libby was waiting by the roadside, holding several croissants and hot coffee. She soon got inside the car and handed out one serving to each person. Lilith nced at the two new faces and remembered that Brenna¡¯s previous bodyguards were different.


    ¡°Did you change bodyguards?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Yes, these two are quite skilled,¡± Brenna said, introducing Libby and Finley with confidence.


    Leaning closer, Brenna whispered, ¡°They¡¯re armed, so it feels extra safe.¡±


    Lilith¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°They carry guns?¡± She studied them curiously, sensing they weren¡¯t typical bodyguards. She had heard from Ernst about Brenna¡¯s secretive military coboration and knew to keep it quiet.


    A thought struck her. ¡°They¡¯re connected to the military?¡± Lilith asked, her eyes gleaming with fascination. She marveled at Brenna¡¯s capabilities, feeling fortunate to be able to marry Ernst soon. She believed every member of the Harper family was outstanding.


    Brenna gave a slight nod. ¡°Yes.¡±


    Lilith¡¯s attention shifted to Libby¡¯s waist. ¡°Can I see your gun?¡±


    Libby, unfazed, drew her handgun, unloaded it, and passed it to Lilith.


    ¡°It¡¯s heavier than I expected,¡± Lilith said, inspecting it with curiosity but handling it carefully, wary of identally setting it off. After a moment, she handed it back. ¡°I¡¯m terrified I would somehow make it fire.¡±


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 Chapter 1342

    ?Chapter 1342:


    Libby deftly reloaded and holstered the weapon. ¡°It was empty¡ªno risk of that,¡± she said.


    They soon pulled up to a vibrant shopping street lined with upscale boutiques offering everything from designer wear to luxury goods.


    Finley parked the car, and the group of four soon began their outing, with Finley and Libby staying vignt, their eyes constantly scanning the surroundings. Brenna¡¯s work.


    On upgrading the military¡¯s fighter jet system, Brenna had be a critical asset, and they couldn¡¯t afford any slip-ups.


    Brenna¡¯s goal for the day was to help Lilith pick out clothes, shoes, bags, makeup, and fragrances.


    Having shopped together with Brenna often, Lilith was nowfortable with high-end brands, unbothered by price tags reaching hundreds of thousands. She wasn¡¯t fussy about fashion and was happy with anythingfortable, so Brenna took charge, selecting items that matched Lilith¡¯s style.


    Their stroll soon led them into a jewelry store, where Brenna encouraged Lilith to browse.


    ¡°Spot anything you like? Pearls, gold, gemstones, agate¡ªlet¡¯s grab a few sets of each,¡± Brenna said.


    The store clerk, sensing their wealth, greeted them with enthusiasm. ¡°Is there something special you¡¯re looking for? We¡¯ve just gotten some exquisite new pieces. Would you like to see them?¡±


    After their shopping trip for clothes, Brenna decided to help Lilith pick out jewelry toplement her new wardrobe.


    They selected a sapphire ne for elegant gowns, a long strand of pearls for cozy sweaters, and earrings to pair with any outfit Lilith owned.


    Fresh updates now on g?ln¦Ò¦Íe??s


    Looking at the growing pile, Lilith hesitated. ¡°This seems a bit much. I¡¯ve already chosen so many,¡± she said. She reminded herself that she needed to embrace her new life¡ªafter all, she was wealthy now.


    Brenna waved off her concern without a second thought. ¡°You haven¡¯t seen my jewelry collection. My cab is overflowing, and I never repeat a piece. Believe me, you¡¯ll need more if you¡¯re going to keep up with your new lifestyle.¡± Shepared a shimmering crystal ne against Lilith and nodded at the clerk to box it up.


    When they left the boutique, Finley and Libby followed behind, both carrying many shopping bags. The two exchanged nces, stunned by how easily the rich spent money.


    ¡°Let¡¯s grab something to eat,¡± Brenna suggested, leading them past several restaurants before choosing the busiest one as their stop.


    Since the main dining area downstairs was already packed, she brought everyone to the second floor. The ce was bright, cozy, and beautifully decorated. tes were works of art. For Libby and Finley, these kinds of restaurants were rare, as a meal here cost more than they usually spent in a month. Still, since meeting Brenna, they were slowly adapting to the world of luxury.


    Even so, they remembered why they were there. Both scanned the first floor as they entered, their eyes sharp for anything out of ce among the staff or diners.


    That vignce continued as they arrived on the second floor, watching everyone around them carefully.


    Although Brenna didn¡¯t think they faced any real threat, she still kept an eye on the surroundings. Her attention thennded on a figure she recognized instantly.


    Just then, Sylvie turned her head and locked eyes with Brenna. She was as shocked as Brenna.


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    .<fn4315> ??? ????? ???????s ??? ?????s??? ?? F?nd-Novel</fn4315>

 Chapter 1343

    ?Chapter 1343:


    Brenna muttered, ¡°Wasn¡¯t she supposed to be behind bars? How is she free?¡± Lilith, following Brenna¡¯s line of sight, noticed a ssmate¡ªsomeone she only barely knew.


    With a polite smile, she acknowledged her presence.


    The moment Sylvie spotted Brenna, her expression turned icy. Memories of her year in jail¡ªand the Harper family¡¯s role in her downfall¡ªshed through her mind. Hatred red in her eyes as she looked at Brenna from across the room.


    Whitney Higgins, Sylvie¡¯s cousin, noticed the tension. ¡°Do you know her, Sylvie?¡±


    With a chilly voice, Sylvie replied, ¡°That¡¯s the woman who nearly destroyed our family.¡±


    Whitney actually knew who Brenna was, though Brenna didn¡¯t know her. Old memories stirred inside Whitney. Back in their college days, she and Lilith had both studied finance, and Lilith had been far less privileged than her. But now, Lilith was about to marry Ernst, who came from the powerful Harper family. The unfairness of it all gnawed at Whitney.


    ¡°Should we go say hi, Sylvie?¡±


    Logic told her it made sense towork with people like Lilith and Brenna, but every instinct made her bristle at their privilege.


    Sylvie, still carrying a grudge over her prison sentence, hesitated before nodding. ¡°Fine. Let¡¯s go.¡±


    They strode toward Brenna¡¯s table.


    Before they could get too close, Libby and Finley stepped in, cing themselves in their path. Finley spoke up. ¡°Is there something you need?¡±


    Sylvie realized that Finley was a bodyguard and didn¡¯t dare to try to push past, knowing that would only bring trouble upon herself.


    Keep reading at g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s.c?m


    She said, ¡°I¡¯m an old friend of Miss Harper¡¯s. Just wanted to say hello.¡±


    Whitney added, ¡°Miss Richardson and I studied at the same university together before.¡±


    Brenna kept her expression indifferent. Sylvie had always been Rosie¡¯s follower, so Brenna had no reason to wee her. She replied coolly, ¡°As I recall, we were never close. What do you need from me?¡±


    Finley gave a slight, mocking smile. ¡°If you¡¯ve got something to say, say it here.¡±


    Sylvie could only re at Brenna in frustration. Every sharp word she wanted to throw at Brenna died on her lips, thanks to the bodyguards standing guard.


    Defeated, she stayed silent.


    Meanwhile, Whitney felt disdain towards Sylvie. How could she back down so easily like this?


    Trying another tactic, Whitney focused on Lilith and gave her a faint smile. ¡°So, Lilith, word is you¡¯re marrying Ernst, the CEO of the Harper Group. How did you manage to catch the attention of someone like that? Maybe you can share your secret, so I can try my luck with a wealthy man, too.¡±


    Initially, Lilith had been ready to reconnect with Whitney and keep things friendly, but the sarcasm in Whitney¡¯s voice immediately made her change her mind.


    She said, ¡°I doubt you¡¯d be able to pull it off, Whitney. My mother and my fianc¨¦¡¯s mother have been best friends for years. Unless your mother has a rtionship like that, I don¡¯t think there¡¯s much you can do.¡±


    Brenna looked at Whitney, thinking she was foolish. She then exchanged a nce with Lilith, her voice calm as it reached her ears. ¡°You¡¯re going to run the Harper family someday. Are you really going to let her talk down to you? Go on, show her who she¡¯s dealing with.¡±


    .<fnc2a2> This text is hosted at FindN()vel</fnc2a2>


    .


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 Chapter 1344

    ?Chapter 1344:


    Lilith¡¯s frustration simmered, and Brenna¡¯s support gave her an extra boost of confidence. Sure, the Higgins family had more money than the Richardson family, butpared to the Harper family, they didn¡¯t evene close. Whitney was foolish for daring to mock her.


    ¡°Tell me, does your mother hang around with people like that? I didn¡¯t think so,¡± Lilith said, feeling bolder than ever.


    Whitney froze, her mouth hanging open. She hadn¡¯t expected Lilith to push back. She had been certain that Lilith would shrink back in embarrassment. ¡°You really have no shame. How can you stand there and brag about being a gold-digger?¡± Whitney shot back.


    Lilith rose from her seat, eyeing Whitney from head to toe. ¡°Call me whatever you want, but the truth is, I¡¯ve got the looks, the style, and the confidence to hold my own. That¡¯s why I attract a man with money. Can you honestly say the same about yourself?¡±


    Brenna shed her a thumbs-up, silently urging Lilith to teach Whitney a lesson. With a smirk, Lilith continued, ¡°Take a hard look in the mirror. Even if rich men lined up around the block, not a single one would bother with you. There¡¯s nothing special about your looks, no curves to catch anyone¡¯s eye, and worst of all, you run your mouth without a hint of charm. Who¡¯d want someone like you?¡±


    Whitney touched her face and nced down at her chest, her cheeks flushing with anger. She snapped at Lilith, ¡°How can you say things like that? Chasing after money isn¡¯t exactly something to be proud of! Does it really make you better than everyone else? You¡¯re just being a bully!¡±


    Tears pooled in Whitney¡¯s eyes as she lifted her hand, ready to p Lilith across the face.


    Libby stepped in without hesitation, grabbing Whitney¡¯s wrist in a firm grip. Her expression was icy, and the look she gave Whitney was enough to freeze her in ce. ¡°Don¡¯t ask for trouble.¡±


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    Startled by Libby¡¯s stern warning, Whitney quickly withdrew her hand.


    Lilith just grinned, sticking her tongue out. ¡°Actually, I do think it¡¯s something to brag about.¡±


    Sylvie observed the whole scene quietly, unbothered by the drama. When it looked like Whitney was about to break down in tears, Sylvie gently took her hand. ¡°That¡¯s enough. Let¡¯s not make things worse.¡±


    Turning to Brenna, Sylvie¡¯s patience snapped. ¡°Don¡¯t get cocky, Brenna. Sooner orter, you¡¯ll pay for all of this. Mark my words, one day, I¡¯ll have you begging for forgiveness! My family nearly lost everything because of you. I won¡¯t forget that.¡±<fn4c3d> For more chapters visit Find¡ïNovel</fn4c3d>


    Brenna gave a light, dismissiveugh. ¡°If you¡¯re really so tough, then why not do something about it now? How long are you nning to wait to seek revenge? Until you¡¯re old and gray? Please. Even in twenty years, your family won¡¯t be in my league.¡±


    Sylvie¡¯s hands balled into fists, her nails digging so deep into her palms that it hurt. She felt the sting of humiliation. ¡°Don¡¯t underestimate me! You¡¯ve got some money, but so what? If you¡¯re really that amazing¡­ you¡­¡±


    She nced around, suddenly realizing she had nothing that could measure up to Brenna.


    Her gaze thennded on a table lined with drinks, and a spark of inspiration hit. ¡°Alright then, how about a drinking contest? First one to get drunk has to apologize and steer clear of the winner from now on. Think you can handle that?¡± Sylvie wasn¡¯t exactly a heavy drinker, but she doubted Brenna could hold her liquor.


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 Chapter 1345

    ?Chapter 1345:


    ¡°Please, you should be smarter than that. That bet¡¯s weak. If you want a real challenge, pick something else, or just leave,¡± Brenna waved off the idea, deciding Sylvie wasn¡¯t worth the effort.


    Finley stepped forward, his presence intimidating. Whitney immediately shrank behind Sylvie for cover.


    Already uneasy, Sylvie shrank back too, rendered speechless by the bodyguard¡¯s presence. Reluctantly, she led Whitney away and back to their seats, defeated.<fn22fb> Find the newest release on find?novel</fn22fb>


    Lilith let out a mockingugh. ¡°I actually wanted to chat with Whitney, maybe ask where she¡¯s working these days. But after the way she acted, I don¡¯t see the point. She¡¯s not worth my time.¡±


    Brenna took the menu from the waiter, picked out two dishes for herself, then handed it to Lilith, who ordered next, followed by Libby and Finley.


    Even though Libby and Finley were technically just her bodyguards, Brenna made sure to treat them as her friends. ¡°So, how did Sylvie manage to get released from prison so early?¡± Brenna asked. Her curiosity got the best of her.


    Finley replied, ¡°If someone behaves well in prison, they can get time knocked off their sentence. And if their family¡¯s got the right connections, that will be even easier. That¡¯s probably why she got out early.¡±


    Brenna gave a thoughtful nod. ¡°That actually adds up.¡±


    While they were in the middle of their meal, Jordy arrived, a sweet-looking young woman by his side. She had the kind of fresh-faced innocence that screamed college student.


    Jordy¡¯s eyes scanned the room, missing Brenna, but he spotted Sylvie right away.


    Sylvie lit up at the sight of him and eagerly waved him over to their table. Jordy didn¡¯t waste time on small talk. ¡°So, how¡¯d you manage to get out of prison so soon?¡±


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    Sylvie¡¯s smile faded. ¡°Why does that even matter? I was falsely used, and once the truth came out, they let me go.¡±


    Sylvie had been out of prison for a while now and had learned a great deal about Jordy¡¯s new status. He was no longer just another rich kid. He had worked his way into the city¡¯s elite, powerful enough to make waves in Shirie.


    The moment she heard about his rise, her thoughts immediately returned to their past. Maybe, just maybe, the bond they once shared would be enough for Jordy to throw the Higgins family a lifeline¡ªor even help them take on the Harper family.


    Hooking her arm through his, Sylvie shed her most charming smile. ¡°Jordy, long time no see. You¡¯ve changed a lot since west met.¡±


    She quickly realized, however, that he was no longer the same. There was a quiet strength in the way he held himself, a hint of indifference in his gaze that hadn¡¯t been there before. For a brief moment, it felt as though he didn¡¯t even recognize her.


    The next second, Jordy pulled his arm away and stepped back. ¡°Apologies, Miss Higgins, but I have ns today.¡±


    He nced toward the window, where a young woman waved at him. She was dressed in a loose white sweater, effortlessly stylish, with an air of youthful energy. She looked like a college student¡ªtall, poised, and undeniably attractive.


    Brenna noticed her as well, catching the way the girl carried herself with such grace. The girl hurried over, slipping her arm through Jordy¡¯s, her eyes flicking to Sylvie with a wary expression. ¡°Mr. Barton, who¡¯s this?¡±


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 Chapter 1346

    ?Chapter 1346:


    Jordy answered with a calm smile. ¡°Oh, just an old me. We happened to bump into each other.¡±


    The girl¡¯s expression cooled, a hint of disdain flickering in her eyes, but she didn¡¯t say anything. Instead, she radiated superiority.


    Sylvie¡¯s stomach twisted, her confidence faltering. She tried to keep her voice light. ¡°Jordy, just because you¡¯re sessful now doesn¡¯t mean you have to pretend there¡¯s nothing between us. The past doesn¡¯t just disappear.¡±


    Jordy gently squeezed the girl¡¯s hand. ¡°Wait for me over there? I¡¯ll just be a minute.¡±


    ¡°Alright,¡± the girl replied, nodding and stepping away with practiced grace.


    Sylvie watched her go, jealousy gnawing at her. Was there any chance she could win Jordy back now, or had that door been closed for good?


    She couldn¡¯t hide her contempt, ring at the girl¡¯s back before snapping at Jordy, ¡°Is she even an adult? Honestly, you¡¯re too old for her.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s twenty-one. She¡¯s in college,¡± Jordy replied coolly. ¡°If you¡¯ve got something important to say, spit it out. But stay out of my personal life.¡± His patience was wearing thin, his hands shoved into his pockets as he kept ncing over at the girl.


    Sylvie¡¯s irritation only grew sharper. ¡°Wow, must feel really impressive, dating a college student.¡±


    Jordy brushed off the insult without defending himself. ¡°If you¡¯ve got nothing important to say, I¡¯m going to eat. I don¡¯t have time for idle chatter.¡±


    ¡°Hold on.¡± Panic red in Sylvie¡¯s voice as she grabbed Jordy¡¯s arm, forcing him to sit down. ¡°My family¡¯s in trouble, Jordy. No contracts, barely able to pay wages¡ªwe¡¯re on the brink. You¡¯ve got plenty of money now. Could you invest a little to help us out? I promise I¡¯ll pay you back after we recover.¡±


    Sylvie¡¯s tone slipped into desperation as she looked Jordy in the eye. ¡°I¡¯m begging you. For old times¡¯ sake.¡±


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    ¡°No,¡± Jordy replied without hesitation. ¡°Your family isn¡¯t worth a dime anymore. I¡¯d be burning money if I threw it your way. Try your luck elsewhere.¡±


    Jordy was well aware that the Higgins family had crossed the Harper family. Until they received the Harpers¡¯ forgiveness, any chance of aeback was nothing more than a pipe dream.<fn5157> For more chapters visit Find[?]ovel</fn5157>


    ncing aside, he spotted Brenna surrounded by her friends. He told Sylvie tly, ¡°If you really want another shot, you¡¯ll have to beg Brenna for it.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t do that!¡± Sylvie shot back, her eyes welling up with tears as she looked at Jordy.


    Jordy didn¡¯t flinch. Sentiment meant nothing to him anymore; if it didn¡¯t turn a profit, he wasn¡¯t interested.


    He stood up and walked over to Brenna¡¯s table. ¡°Well, isn¡¯t this a surprise. Didn¡¯t expect to see you here.¡±


    Brenna motioned toward an empty chair. ¡°There¡¯s room if you want to eat with us.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, but my girlfriend¡¯s waiting.¡± Jordy nced at Libby and Finley; their sharp suits and alert posture made it clear they were on duty as bodyguards. Then, he looked at Lilith. She looked familiar, then he remembered¡ªshe was Ernst¡¯s fianc¨¦e.


    He offered her a polite smile. ¡°You must be Miss Richardson. I¡¯m Jordy Barton, Brenna¡¯s ex-boyfriend.¡±


    Lilith nced at Brenna, who gave a nod of confirmation.


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 Chapter 1347

    ?Chapter 1347:


    She stood to greet Jordy with a handshake. ¡°Nice to meet you,¡± she said.


    Jordy turned back to Brenna. ¡°By the way, I heard Hector¡¯s headed to Vand soon. He¡¯s eyeing investments in drone tech. Brenna, you might want to keep this on your radar. It could be a big opportunity for Mr. Mitchell.¡± This was important news.


    ¡°I appreciate the tip. I¡¯ll keep an eye on it,¡± Brenna replied, sensing Jordy¡¯s goodwill.


    All the while, Sylvie watched their interaction with growing confusion. Jordy used to have nothing but contempt for Brenna, and he couldn¡¯t stand her. How had that changedpletely?


    Was it really just because Brenna was a member of the powerful Harper family?


    It struck her as unfair.


    Why did things always seem to work out in Brenna¡¯s favor?


    BH Animation announced openings for concept artists, algorithm engineers, and several other positions on multiple recruitment sites, quickly drawing interest from professionals in the field.


    With the promise of attractive sry packages, thepany¡¯s HR inbox soon overflowed with applications.


    The human resources division, with only five staff members, spent long days andte nights sorting through submissions to find the most qualified candidates. After two weeks, they narrowed the pool down to nearly three thousand applicants for interviews.


    On the fifty-seventh floor, 250 workstations had been set up, each fully equipped. Thepany had even secured a significant entertainment project,rgely thanks to Dalton¡¯s support.


    Thiago and the HR team worked tirelessly for over a week before finally emailing every candidate who made the shortlist.


    ???€$? ???t??§ñ? ?n ??ln?¦Í¦Ål?.c??


    Hank also joined in, helping with the review of applications and sending out interview notices.


    Once the holiday break ended, thepanyunched interview sessions.


    The HR department split into three pairs to manage the workload, with Thiago stepping in to help.


    From the hallway, Hank called, ¡°Number 1998, Sylvie Higgins.¡±<fn8f71> Read full story at find?novel</fn8f71>


    Sylvie slipped herpact mirror back into her purse and carried her resume into Interview Room 3.


    Just before Christmas, the Higgins Group had copsed into bankruptcy, leaving her searching for work. Brenna¡¯s firm promised excellent pay, and since her major aligned with the role, Sylvie submitted her resume.


    Still, her years at the Higgins Group had been spent coasting along with little effort, leaving her without much practical experience.


    To improve her chances, Sylvie had fabricated parts of her employment history on her resume.


    The HR staff had failed to spot the false information.


    Sylvie didn¡¯t think much of Brenna¡¯spany, brushing it off as insignificant. How could Brenna possibly aplish anything?


    Stories about Brenna¡¯s powerful ties and multi-million-dor contracts were, in Sylvie¡¯s mind, nothing more than shallowpliments aimed at pleasing the Harper family.


    She held Brenna in contempt.


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 Chapter 1348

    ?Chapter 1348:


    When it came to social standing, Brenna had been raised in the Barrett family, who had long since vanished from Shirie¡¯s circles of influence. To Sylvie, Brenna was nothing.


    Sylvie walked into the interview room with an air of arrogance, and the sight of Thiago sitting as one of the interviewers made her even more dismissive.


    The Moreno family had already lost their status among the elite. Thiago was beneath her.


    Thiago shared responsibility for Room 3 with Amira Wells, a colleague.


    When he saw Sylvie, he frowned and nced back at her resume.<fn71dc> Fresh chapters posted on find[?]ovel</fn71dc>


    ¡°Sylvie? From what I recall, you have no actual experience in the animation field.¡± Thiago¡¯s tone was firm. He looked at Sylvie coldly.


    Sylvie squirmed slightly with unease, but she quicklyposed herself. With an eye roll, she answered, ¡°I majored in this field and collected several awards back in school. Isn¡¯t that sufficient? For a smallpany like this, do you honestly believe I¡¯m not enough for you?¡±


    Thiago kept his expression cold, his words just as sharp. ¡°Go outside and see how many applicants out there outshine you. Their academic records and resumes are stronger, and they don¡¯t need to invent their work history. Even though your skills werecking, you could have shown honesty. Integrity matters. No surprise the Higgins Group copsed.¡±


    Sylvie¡¯s anger red up. ¡°How dare you say something like that? If it weren¡¯t for you, the Higgins Group would still be standing!¡±


    Too pressed for time to bother with her anger, Thiago replied, ¡°If you truly had the ability, why not strike back at us instead of applying for a job here? Are you out of options?¡±


    He then motioned for her to leave.


    L¨»t??¦Ó c§ß¦Á¦Ñ¦Ó?rs ¦Én g??l??ov?ls.??????


    The noise drew Hank into the room. Though he didn¡¯t know Sylvie, the displeasure written on Thiago¡¯s face told him enough. She wasn¡¯t wee here.


    ¡°Please leave,¡± he said to Sylvie.


    Sylvie gave a disdainful snort and walked out reluctantly.


    In the corridor, a line of sharply dressed candidates waited patiently. Catching sight of their resumes, Sylvie noticed many came from well-known studios, including major animation houses like Legendary Animation and Packer Arts, with some applicants even holding supervisory positions.


    ¡°No way; this can¡¯t be real. Your resume must be made up!¡± Sylvie turned on a man in his thirties, leveling her usation.


    ¡°What nonsense are you talking about?¡± the man said angrily, pointing at his resume. ¡°Mine is authentic. Be careful with your words, or I¡¯ll sue you!¡± He held out hispany ID card. ¡°Look for yourself. I¡¯m a project manager.¡±


    Sylvie nced at the badge, her face warming with embarrassment, and hurried away.


    From the doorway, Hank called, ¡°Next, Dario Morley, to Room 3.¡±


    Sylvie stared at the long line of applicants, unwilling to believe Brenna¡¯spany had grown into something far beyond her grasp.


    Just then, the elevator doors opened, and Brenna stepped out,ing directly face-to-face with Sylvie.


    ¡°So you¡¯re applying here? Bold move,¡± Brenna remarked.


    Frustrated, Sylvie snapped, ¡°Don¡¯t get so smug. Once I work for your rivals, you¡¯ll be the one regretting it!¡±


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 Chapter 1349

    ?Chapter 1349:


    Mack couldn¡¯t help but think fifty thousand dors would disappear in no time¡ªhardly enough to satisfy him. He shot a threatening re at Ruby. ¡°Hand over all the money you¡¯ve got.¡±


    Ruby had never seen her son look so intimidating. Fear crept in and she took a few steps back, clutching her pocket tightly. ¡°There¡¯s nothing left; I¡¯m broke. Every time you show up, it¡¯s just to ask for money. Do you ever think about your father? I¡¯m the one caring for him day in and day out. Do you ever think about¡ª¡±


    Alec¡¯s voice suddenly cut through the tension from another room, desperate and loud. ¡°Who¡¯s out there? Somebody help! I¡¯m starving in here!¡±


    A heavy thump echoed, as if something had hit the floor. But Ruby¡¯s mind wasn¡¯t on Alec. At this point, all she cared about was holding on to her money. She wasn¡¯t about to hand it over to either of her children. Mack saw right through her act. He pulled Ruby¡¯s hand away and snatched her phone. His eyes burned with anger as he gritted his teeth. ¡°Send every cent to my ount, or I swear I¡¯ll kill you!¡±


    A knife appeared in his fist, the de shing dangerously as he aimed it at Ruby. ¡°Do it. Now.¡±


    Ruby¡¯s voice broke, equal parts hurt and shock. ¡°I¡¯m your mother! How could you threaten me like this?¡± Her heart twisted with pain. She had never imagined her own son would go this far.


    ¡°Drop the act. Aren¡¯t you my mother? You can¡¯t even give me some money? When you die, won¡¯t all your money be mine? So stop stalling!¡± Mack eximed. His rage boiled over, and he sent the dining table crashing to the floor. Ruby shook with terror. ¡°Mack, I can¡¯t give you my money. Without it, how am I supposed to survive? I am old and can¡¯t work anymore.¡±


    Mack¡¯s anger exploded. ¡°Of course. It¡¯s always about you, isn¡¯t it? You never once cared about me. Selfish to the end.¡±


    He pulled up the banking app on her phone. With a few taps, he drained her ount, transferring every penny into his own.


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    ¡°Please, don¡¯t do this to me. How am I supposed to live with nothing left? I can¡¯t believe you¡¯d do this to me! I am your mother!¡± Ruby, desperate and heartbroken, lunged to snatch her phone away from him.


    ¡°Stay out of my way!¡± Mack snapped, kicking her.


    Ruby fell to the floor, stunned, unable to get up right away. Once every cent hadnded in his ount, Mack tossed her phone onto the floor. Ruby grabbed it with trembling hands and checked her bnce, her heart dropping at the sight of just a few dors left.


    ¡°You monster¡­¡±


    Alec dragged himself out of the bedroom, catching only a glimpse of Mack¡¯s back as he left. The sight of Alec sent Ruby into a frenzy. She snatched a clothes hanger and swung it at him in rage.


    ¡°This is your fault! We¡¯re broke because of you! We¡¯ll be lucky if we have crumbs to eat now. I still have to look after you. Why did I have to get stuck with a useless man like you? You¡¯ve ruined everything!¡±


    Sheshed out harder and harder, unleashing all her pent-up bitterness on Alec. Meanwhile, Brenna sat at the dining table, looking at the photos Isabe had sent. Her expression grew cold.


    ¡°You deserve every bit of this. Your real punishment hasn¡¯t even begun,¡± she muttered.


    Just then, the front door opened, and Giselle stepped in, arms full of shopping bags. She immediately noticed the tension on Brenna¡¯s face. ¡°What happened? Are you in a bad mood?¡±


    .


    .<fn784a> For original chapters go to find[?]ovel</fn784a>


    .

 Chapter 1350

    ?Chapter 1350:


    Brenna put her phone away and reached for the bags Giselle brought in. Inside, she found a wool coat, two brand-new designer purses, a luxury skincare set, fresh shoes, and some trendy clothes Giselle had picked up for her.


    ¡°Pick whichever handbag you like, and set the other aside for Lilith. Drop it off for her tomorrow, and say it¡¯s from you. It¡¯s important to keep things warm between you two.¡±


    ¡°Brother¡¯s getting married to her soon, so we should treat her well,¡± Giselle said, washing her hands before settling in at the table.


    ¡°Alright,¡± Brenna replied. ¡°I¡¯ll handle it tomorrow.¡±


    Giselle continued, ¡°If you eat out with her, the bill¡¯s on you. Don¡¯t let Lilith pay for anything, got it? After lunch, take her shopping and get her whatever she wants.¡± She pulled out her phone and wired Brenna ten million on the spot. ¡°Don¡¯t hold back.¡±


    Brennaughed. ¡°Mom, I¡¯m not short on money. You don¡¯t need to transfer me more.¡±


    But Giselle just shook her head. ¡°Younger folks spend more, so save what¡¯s yours. My money is meant for you to enjoy. I¡¯ve already set aside my pension. Besides, I heard you¡¯re opening an animation studio. That must need a lot of money, right? If you need more funds, just ask your dad; don¡¯t be shy about it. And if you are too shy, I¡¯ll ask him for you.¡±


    ¡°I really do have enough money, Mom. Why are you always worried I¡¯m broke? Sure, I don¡¯t own manypanies, but mine are all profitable,¡± Brenna said, still smiling.


    Giselle gave Brenna a look. ¡°It¡¯s important for young people to be financially secure. Use your money when you need it. Just look at the family shares. Your grandma already handed a lot to Rosie. Our family¡¯s got more money than we could ever spend. If you just hoard it, one day it¡¯ll end up belonging to someone else.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not a guarantee that the shares will stay with Rosie,¡± Brenna said.


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    Shepard slipped into the room just as the conversation unfolded, shing Giselle a mysterious smile. ¡°Our family¡¯s shares aren¡¯t handed out lightly. Rosie¡¯s schemed against us time and again¡ªwhy would we simply give her what she wants?¡±


    His face darkened briefly. A few days ago, Brenna had shared some troubling news with him, but he and Ernst had kept it from Giselle to spare her worry. Instead, they had quietly arranged for someone to protect her discreetly.


    Just then, Ernst strolled in, loosening his tie and passing it, along with his coat, to Julia with a casual air.


    Giselle¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°Are you hiding something from me?¡±


    Shepard settled beside her, his tone reassuring. ¡°Nothing to worry about. Our son¡¯s wedding is approaching, and you¡¯ll have your hands full managing it. You¡¯ve been working so hardtely.¡±<fn9df2> Follow current nov?ls on find?novel</fn9df2>


    He reached into his jacket, pulled out a small velvet box, and offered it to her.


    ¡°Take a look¡ªdo you like it?¡±


    Ernst and Brenna exchanged amused nces, their smiles warm.


    Giselle flushed slightly. ¡°We¡¯ve been together for so long, and you¡¯re still giving me gifts?¡±


    Despite her words, she epted the gift and opened the box to find a pair of rare golden pearl earrings.


    ¡°They are gorgeous.¡± Giselle¡¯s voice softened, her heart warmed by Shepard¡¯s thoughtfulness.


    Brenna said, ¡°They suit you well.¡±


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 Chapter 1351

    ?Chapter 1351:


    The next day was the weekend. Brenna slept in until ten, applied a touch of makeup, and set out to meet Lilith, with Libby and Finley tagging along, Finley at the wheel. Even on a casual outing, Finley stayed vignt, scanning for anything suspicious.


    Lilith, a finance student, had been ced by Ernst in the Harper Group¡¯s finance department. She was starting at an entry-level role to hone her skills. Ernst¡¯s long-term n was to involve her in thepany¡¯s investment projects, eventually setting her up to run a venture capital firm once she had gained enough experience, given the Harper Group¡¯s extensive annual investments.


    Lilith waited outside her home for Brenna, bundled in a white knee-length down coat. The car pulled up smoothly, and Brenna leaned out the window with a cheerful wave. ¡°Lilith, jump in!¡±


    Despite the cold weather, the car¡¯s cozy interior enveloped Lilith in warmth. ¡°It¡¯s so cozy in here,¡± she said, settling in.


    The car left the neighborhood, and Libby was waiting by the roadside, holding several croissants and hot coffee. She soon got inside the car and handed out one serving to each person.


    Lilith nced at the two new faces and remembered that Brenna¡¯s previous bodyguards were different. ¡°Did you change bodyguards?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Yes, these two are quite skilled,¡± Brenna said, introducing Libby and Finley with confidence.


    Leaning closer, Brenna whispered, ¡°They¡¯re armed, so it feels extra safe.¡±


    Lilith¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°They carry guns?¡± She studied them curiously, sensing they weren¡¯t typical bodyguards. She had heard from Ernst about Brenna¡¯s secretive military coboration and knew to keep it quiet.<fn8ea6> Updates are released by F¦ÉndNovel</fn8ea6>


    A thought struck her. ¡°They¡¯re connected to the military?¡± Lilith asked, her eyes gleaming with fascination. She marveled at Brenna¡¯s capabilities, feeling fortunate to be able to marry Ernst soon. She believed every member of the Harper family was outstanding.


    Brenna gave a slight nod. ¡°Yes.¡±


    Lilith¡¯s attention shifted to Libby¡¯s waist. ¡°Can I see your gun?¡±


    Libby, unfazed, drew her handgun, unloaded it, and passed it to Lilith.


    ¡°It¡¯s heavier than I expected,¡± Lilith said, inspecting it with curiosity but handling it carefully, wary of identally setting it off. After a moment, she handed it back. ¡°I¡¯m terrified I would somehow make it fire.¡±


    Libby deftly reloaded and holstered the weapon. ¡°It was empty¡ªno risk of that,¡± she said.


    They soon pulled up to a vibrant shopping street lined with upscale boutiques offering everything from designer wear to luxury goods. Finley parked the car, and the group of four began their outing, with Finley and Libby staying vignt, their eyes constantly scanning the surroundings. Brenna¡¯s work on upgrading the military¡¯s fighter jet system made her a critical asset, and they couldn¡¯t afford any slip-ups.


    Brenna¡¯s goal for the day was to help Lilith pick out clothes, shoes, bags, makeup, and fragrances. Having shopped with Brenna often, Lilith was nowfortable with high-end brands, unbothered by price tags reaching hundreds of thousands. She wasn¡¯t fussy about fashion, happy with anythingfortable, so Brenna took charge, selecting items that matched Lilith¡¯s style.


    Their stroll soon led them into a jewelry store, where Brenna encouraged Lilith to browse.


    ¡°Spot anything you like? Pearls, gold, gemstones, agate¡ªlet¡¯s grab a few sets of each,¡± Brenna said.


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 Chapter 1352

    ?Chapter 1352:


    The store clerk, sensing their wealth, greeted them with enthusiasm. ¡°Is there something special you¡¯re looking for? We¡¯ve just received some exquisite new pieces. Would you like to see them?¡±


    After their shopping trip for clothes, Brenna decided to help Lilith pick out jewelry that wouldplement her new wardrobe. They chose a sapphire ne for elegant gowns, a long strand of pearls for cozy sweaters, and earrings to pair with any outfit Lilith owned.


    Looking at the growing pile, Lilith hesitated. ¡°This seems a bit much, I¡¯ve already chosen so many,¡± she said. She tried to remind herself that she needed to embrace her new life¡ªafter all, she was wealthy now.


    Brenna waved off her concern without a second thought. ¡°You haven¡¯t seen my jewelry collection. My cab is overflowing, and I never repeat a piece. Believe me, you¡¯ll need more if you¡¯re going to keep up with your new lifestyle.¡± Shepared a shimmering crystal ne against Lilith and nodded at the clerk to box it up.


    When they left the boutique, Finley and Libby followed behind, both carrying many shopping bags. The two exchanged nces, stunned by how easily the rich spent money.


    ¡°Let¡¯s grab something to eat.¡± Brenna led them past several restaurants, finally choosing the busiest one as their stop.


    Since the main dining area downstairs was already packed, she brought everyone to the second floor. The ce was bright, cozy, and decorated beautifully. tes were works of art. For Libby and Finley, these kinds of restaurants were rare, since a meal here cost more than what they¡¯d usually spend in a month. Still, since meeting Brenna, they were slowly adapting to the world of luxury.


    Even so, they remembered why they were there. Both of them scanned the first floor as they entered, their eyes sharp for anything out of ce among the staff or diners. That vignce continued as they arrived on the second floor, watching everyone around them carefully.


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    Although Brenna didn¡¯t think they faced any real threat, she still kept an eye on the surroundings. Her attention thennded on a figure she recognized instantly.


    Just then, Sylvie turned her head and locked eyes with Brenna. She was just as shocked.


    Brenna muttered, ¡°Wasn¡¯t she supposed to be behind bars? How is she free?¡±


    Lilith, following Brenna¡¯s line of sight, noticed a ssmate¡ªsomeone she only barely knew. With a polite smile, she acknowledged her presence.


    The moment Sylvie spotted Brenna, her expression turned icy. Memories of her year in jail¡ªand the Harper family¡¯s role in her downfall¡ªshed through her mind. Hatred red in her eyes as she looked at Brenna from across the room.


    Whitney Higgins, Sylvie¡¯s cousin, noticed the tension. ¡°Do you know her, Sylvie?¡±


    With a chilly voice, Sylvie replied, ¡°That¡¯s the woman who nearly destroyed our family.¡±


    Whitney actually knew who Brenna was, though Brenna didn¡¯t know her. Old memories stirred inside Whitney. Back in their college days, she and Lilith had both studied finance, and Lilith had been far less privileged than she was. But now, Lilith was about to marry Ernst, who was from the powerful Harper family. The unfairness of it all gnawed at Whitney.


    ¡°Should we go say hi, Sylvie?¡±


    Logic told her it made sense towork with people like Lilith and Brenna, but every instinct made her bristle at their privilege. Sylvie, still carrying a grudge over her prison sentence, hesitated before nodding. ¡°Fine. Let¡¯s go.¡±<fn2ae8> Get full chapters from F¦Énd£Îovel</fn2ae8>


    They strode toward Brenna¡¯s table. Before they could get too close, Libby and Finley stepped in, cing themselves in their path.


    .


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 Chapter 1353

    ?Chapter 1353:


    Finley spoke up. ¡°Is there something you need?¡±


    Sylvie realized that Finley was a bodyguard and didn¡¯t dare to push past, knowing that would only bring trouble upon herself. She said, ¡°I¡¯m an old friend of Miss Harper¡¯s. Just wanted to say hello.¡±


    Whitney added, ¡°Miss Richardson and I studied at the same university together before.¡±


    Brenna kept her expression indifferent. Sylvie had always been Rosie¡¯s follower, so Brenna had no reason to wee her. She replied coolly, ¡°As I recall, we were never close. What do you need from me?¡±


    Finley gave a slight, mocking smile. ¡°If you¡¯ve got something to say, say it here.¡±


    Sylvie could only re at Brenna in frustration. Every sharp word she wanted to throw at her died on her lips thanks to the bodyguards standing guard. Defeated, she stayed silent.


    Whitney, meanwhile, felt disdain toward Sylvie. How could she back down so easily like this? Trying another tactic, Whitney focused on Lilith and gave her a faint smile. ¡°So, Lilith, word is you¡¯re marrying Ernst, the Harper Group¡¯s CEO. How did you manage to catch the attention of someone like that? Maybe you can share your secret, so I can try my luck with a wealthy man too.¡±


    Initially, Lilith had been ready to reconnect with Whitney and keep things friendly, but the sarcasm in Whitney¡¯s voice immediately changed her mind.


    She said, ¡°I doubt you¡¯d be able to pull it off, Whitney. My mother and my fianc¨¦¡¯s mother have been best friends for years. Unless your mother has a rtionship like that, I don¡¯t think there¡¯s much you can do.¡±


    Brenna looked at Whitney, thinking she was foolish. She then exchanged a nce with Lilith, her voice calm as it reached her ears. ¡°You¡¯re going to run the Harper family someday. Are you really going to let her talk down to you? Go on, show her who she¡¯s dealing with.¡±


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    Lilith¡¯s frustration simmered, and Brenna¡¯s support gave her an extra boost of confidence. Sure, the Higgins family had more money than the Richardson family, butpared to the Harper family, they didn¡¯t evene close. Whitney was foolish for daring to mock her.


    ¡°Tell me, does your mother spend time with people like that? I didn¡¯t think so,¡± Lilith said, feeling bolder than ever.


    Whitney froze, her mouth hanging open. She hadn¡¯t expected Lilith to push back; she had been certain Lilith would shrink back in embarrassment. ¡°You really have no shame. How can you stand there and brag about being a gold-digger?¡± Whitney shot back.<fn446e> Th? link to the orig?n of this information r?sts ?n find~novel</fn446e>


    Lilith rose from her seat, eyeing Whitney from head to toe. ¡°Call me whatever you want, but the truth is I¡¯ve got the looks, the style, and the confidence to hold my own. That¡¯s why I attract a man with money. Can you honestly say the same about yourself?¡±


    Brenna shed her a thumbs-up, silently urging Lilith to teach Whitney a lesson. With a smirk, Lilith continued, ¡°Take a hard look in the mirror. Even if rich men lined up around the block, not a single one would bother with you. There¡¯s nothing special about your looks, no curves to catch anyone¡¯s eye, and worst of all, you run your mouth without a hint of charm. Who¡¯d want someone like you?¡±


    Whitney touched her face and nced down at her chest, her cheeks flushing with anger. She snapped at Lilith, ¡°How can you say things like that? Chasing after money isn¡¯t exactly something to be proud of! Does it really make you better than everyone else? You¡¯re just being a bully!¡±


    Tears pooled in Whitney¡¯s eyes as she lifted her hand, ready to p Lilith across the face.


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 Chapter 1354

    ?Chapter 1354:


    Libby stepped in without hesitation, grabbing Whitney¡¯s wrist in a firm grip. Her expression was icy, and the look she gave Whitney was enough to freeze her in ce. ¡°Don¡¯t ask for trouble.¡±


    Startled by Libby¡¯s stern warning, Whitney quickly withdrew her hand.


    Lilith just grinned, sticking her tongue out. ¡°Actually, I do think it¡¯s something to brag about.¡±


    Sylvie observed the whole scene quietly, unbothered by the drama. When it looked like Whitney was about to break down in tears, Sylvie gently took her hand. ¡°That¡¯s enough. Let¡¯s not make things worse.¡±


    Turning to Brenna, Sylvie¡¯s patience snapped. ¡°Don¡¯t get cocky, Brenna. Sooner orter, you¡¯ll pay for all of this. Mark my words, one day, I¡¯ll have you begging for forgiveness! My family nearly lost everything because of you. I won¡¯t forget that.¡±


    Brenna gave a light, dismissiveugh. ¡°If you¡¯re really so tough, then why not do something about it now? How long are you nning to wait to seek revenge? Until you¡¯re old and gray? Please. Even in twenty years, your family won¡¯t be in my league.¡±


    Sylvie¡¯s hands balled into fists, her nails digging so deep into her palms that it hurt. She felt the sting of humiliation. ¡°Don¡¯t underestimate me! You¡¯ve got some money, but so what? If you¡¯re really that amazing¡­ you¡­¡±


    She nced around, suddenly realizing she had nothing that could measure up to Brenna. Her gaze thennded on a table lined with drinks, and a spark of inspiration hit. ¡°Alright then, how about a drinking contest? First one to get drunk has to apologize and steer clear of the winner from now on. Think you can handle that?¡±


    Sylvie wasn¡¯t exactly a heavy drinker, but she doubted Brenna could hold her liquor.


    ¡°Please, you should be smarter than that. That bet¡¯s weak. If you want a real challenge, pick something else, or just leave.¡± Brenna waved off the idea, deciding Sylvie wasn¡¯t worth the effort.<fnbd73> The rightful source is f¦É?dn¦Ïvel</fnbd73>


    L??€$? ???t??§ñ? I¦Ç ?a?n?¦Í¦Ål?.c?m


    Finley stepped forward, his presence intimidating. Whitney immediately shrank behind Sylvie for cover. Already uneasy, Sylvie shrank back too, rendered speechless by the bodyguard¡¯s presence. Reluctantly, she led Whitney away and back to their seats, defeated.


    Lilith let out a mockingugh. ¡°I actually wanted to chat with Whitney, maybe ask where she¡¯s working these days. But after the way she acted, I don¡¯t see the point. She¡¯s not worth my time.¡±


    Brenna took the menu from the waiter, picked out two dishes for herself, then handed it to Lilith, who ordered next, followed by Libby and Finley. Even though Libby and Finley were technically just her bodyguards, Brenna made sure to treat them as her friends.


    ¡°So, how did Sylvie manage to get released from prison so early?¡± Brenna asked, her curiosity getting the best of her.


    Finley replied, ¡°If someone behaves well in prison, they can get time knocked off their sentence. And if their family¡¯s got the right connections, that will be even easier. That¡¯s probably why she got out early.¡±


    Brenna gave a thoughtful nod. ¡°That actually adds up.¡±


    While they were in the middle of their meal, Jordy arrived, a sweet-looking young woman by his side. She had the kind of fresh-faced innocence that screamed college student. Jordy¡¯s eyes scanned the room, missing Brenna, but he spotted Sylvie right away.


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 Chapter 1355

    ?Chapter 1355:


    Sylvie lit up at the sight of him and eagerly waved him over to their table. Jordy didn¡¯t waste time on small talk. ¡°So, how¡¯d you manage to get out of prison so soon?¡±


    Sylvie¡¯s smile faded. ¡°Why does that even matter? I was falsely used, and once the truth came out, they let me go.¡±


    Sylvie had been out of prison for a while now, and she¡¯d learned a lot about Jordy¡¯s new status. He was no longer just another rich kid. He¡¯d worked his way into the city¡¯s elite, powerful enough to make waves in Shirie.


    The moment she heard about his rise, her mind drifted back to their history. Maybe, just maybe, the bond they had once shared would be enough for Jordy to throw the Higgins family a lifeline or even help them take on the Harper family.


    Hooking her arm through his, Sylvie put on her best smile. ¡°Jordy, long time no see. You¡¯ve changed a lot since west met.¡±


    She quickly realized he wasn¡¯t the same. There was a quiet strength in the way he held himself, a hint of indifference in his gaze that hadn¡¯t been there before. For a second, it felt like he didn¡¯t recognize her at all.


    The next second, Jordy pulled his arm away and stepped back. ¡°Apologies, Miss Higgins, but I¡¯ve got ns today.¡±


    He nced over at the window, where a young woman waved at him, dressed in a loose white sweater, all effortless style and youthful energy. She looked like a college girl¡ªtall, poised, and undeniably attractive.


    Brenna noticed her too, catching how gracefully the girl carried herself. The girl hurried over, slipping her arm through Jordy¡¯s, her eyes flicking to Sylvie with wariness. ¡°Mr. Barton, who¡¯s this?¡±


    Jordy answered with a calm smile. ¡°Oh, just an old me. We happened to bump into each other.¡±


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    The girl¡¯s expression cooled, a hint of disdain in her look, but she didn¡¯t say anything, simply radiating superiority.


    Sylvie¡¯s stomach twisted, her confidence shaken. She tried to keep her voice light. ¡°Jordy, just because you¡¯re sessful now, you don¡¯t have to pretend there¡¯s nothing between us. The past doesn¡¯t just vanish.¡±<fn34e8> Latest content published on find(?)ovel</fn34e8>


    Jordy squeezed the girl¡¯s hand with care. ¡°Wait for me over there? I¡¯ll just be a minute.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± The girl nodded, stepping away with practiced grace.


    Sylvie watched her go, jealousy gnawing at her. Was there any chance she could win Jordy back now, or had that door been closed for good? She couldn¡¯t hide her contempt, shooting daggers at the girl¡¯s back before snapping at Jordy. ¡°Is she even an adult? Honestly, you are too old for her.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s twenty-one. She is in college. If you¡¯ve got something important to say to me, spit it out. But stay out of my personal life.¡± Jordy¡¯s patience wore thin, his hands stuffed in his pockets as he kept ncing over at the girl.


    Sylvie¡¯s irritation only grew sharper. ¡°Wow, must feel really impressive, dating a college student.¡±


    Jordy brushed off the insult. He didn¡¯t bother defending himself. ¡°If you¡¯ve got nothing important to say, I¡¯m going to eat. I don¡¯t have time for idle chatter.¡±


    ¡°Hold on.¡± Panic red in Sylvie¡¯s voice as she grabbed Jordy¡¯s arm, forcing him to sit down. ¡°My family¡¯s in trouble, Jordy. No contracts, barely able to pay wages¡ªwe¡¯re on the brink. You¡¯ve got plenty of money now. Could you invest a little to help us out? I promise I¡¯ll pay you back after we recover.¡±


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 Chapter 1356

    ?Chapter 1356:


    Sylvie¡¯s tone slipped into desperation as she looked Jordy in the eye. ¡°I¡¯m begging you. For old times¡¯ sake.¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Jordy replied without hesitation. ¡°Your family isn¡¯t worth a dime anymore. I¡¯d be burning money if I threw it your way. Try your luck elsewhere.¡±


    Jordy was well aware that the Higgins family had crossed the Harper family. Until they got the Harpers¡¯ forgiveness, any chance of aeback was a pipe dream.


    ncing aside, he spotted Brenna surrounded by her friends. He told Sylvie tly, ¡°If you really want another shot, you¡¯ll have to beg Brenna for it.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t do that!¡± Sylvie shot back, her eyes shining with tears as she looked at Jordy.


    Jordy didn¡¯t flinch. Sentiment meant nothing to him anymore; if it didn¡¯t turn a profit, he wasn¡¯t interested.


    He stood up and walked over to Brenna¡¯s table. ¡°Well, isn¡¯t this a surprise. Didn¡¯t expect to see you here.¡±


    Brenna motioned toward an empty chair. ¡°There¡¯s room if you want to eat with us.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, but my girlfriend¡¯s waiting.¡± Jordy looked at Libby and Finley; their sharp suits and alert posture made it clear they were on duty as bodyguards. Then, he looked at Lilith. He found her familiar, then remembered she was Ernst¡¯s fianc¨¦e.


    He offered her a polite smile. ¡°You must be Miss Richardson. I¡¯m Jordy Barton, Brenna¡¯s ex-boyfriend.¡±


    Lilith nced at Brenna, who gave a nod of confirmation. She got up to greet Jordy with a handshake. ¡°Nice to meet you.¡±<fn5de1> Find the newest release on FindN0vel</fn5de1>


    Jordy turned back to Brenna. ¡°By the way, I heard Hector¡¯s headed to Vand soon. He¡¯s eyeing investments in drone tech. Brenna, you might want to keep this on your radar. It could be a big opportunity for Mr. Mitchell.¡±


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    This was important news.


    ¡°I appreciate the tip. I¡¯ll keep an eye on it,¡± Brenna replied, sensing Jordy¡¯s goodwill.


    All the while, Sylvie watched their interaction with growing confusion. Jordy used to have nothing but contempt for Brenna, and he couldn¡¯t stand her. How had that changedpletely? Was it really just because Brenna was a member of the powerful Harper family?


    It struck her as unfair. Why did things always seem to work out in Brenna¡¯s favor?


    BH Animation announced openings for concept artists, algorithm engineers, and several other positions on multiple recruitment sites, quickly drawing interest from people in the field. With the promise of attractive sry packages, thepany¡¯s HR inbox was soon overflowing with applications.


    The human resources division had only five staff members, who spent long days andte nights sorting through the submissions to find the most qualified. After two weeks, they narrowed the pool down to nearly three thousand candidates for interviews.


    On the fifty-seventh floor, 250 workstations had been arranged, each fully equipped. Thepany had even managed to secure a significant entertainment project,rgely through Dalton¡¯s support.


    Thiago and the HR staff worked tirelessly for over a week before finally emailing every candidate who made the list.


    Hank also joined in, lending a hand with reviewing applications and sending out interview notices. As soon as the holiday break ended, thepanyunched interview sessions.


    The HR department split into three pairs to handle the workload, with Thiago stepping in to help. From the hallway, Hank called, ¡°Number 1998, Sylvie Higgins.¡±


    Sylvie slipped herpact mirror back into her purse and carried her resume into Interview Room 3. Just before Christmas, the Higgins Group had copsed into bankruptcy, leaving her searching for work. Brenna¡¯s firm promised excellent pay, and since her major aligned with the role, she had submitted her resume.


    Still, her years at the Higgins Group had been spent coasting along with little effort, leaving her without much practical experience. To improve her chances, Sylvie had fabricated her employment history on her resume. The HR staff had failed to spot the false information.


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 Chapter 1357

    Chapter 1357:


    Sylvie didn¡¯t think much of Brenna¡¯spany, brushing it off as insignificant. How could Brenna possibly aplish anything? Stories about Brenna¡¯s powerful ties and multi-million-dor contracts were, in Sylvie¡¯s mind, nothing more than shallowpliments aimed at pleasing the Harper family. She held Brenna in contempt.


    When it came to social standing, Brenna had been raised in the Barrett family, who had long since vanished from Shirie¡¯s circles of influence. To Sylvie, Brenna was nothing.


    Sylvie walked into the interview room with an air of arrogance, and the sight of Thiago sitting as one of the interviewers made her even more dismissive. The Moreno family had already lost their status among the elite. Thiago was beneath her.


    Thiago shared responsibility for Room 3 with Amira Wells, a colleague. When he saw Sylvie, he frowned and nced back at her resume.


    ¡°Sylvie? From what I recall, you have no actual experience in the animation field.¡± Thiago¡¯s tone was firm, his gaze cold.


    Sylvie squirmed slightly with unease but quicklyposed herself. With an eye roll, she answered, ¡°I majored in this field and collected several awards back in school. Isn¡¯t that sufficient? For a smallpany like this, do you honestly believe I¡¯m not enough for you?¡±


    Thiago kept his expression cold, his words just as sharp. ¡°Go outside and see how many applicants out there outshine you. Their academic records and resumes are stronger, and they don¡¯t need to invent their work history. Even though your skills werecking, you could have shown honesty. Integrity matters. No surprise the Higgins Group copsed.¡±


    Sylvie¡¯s anger red up. ¡°How dare you say something like that? If it weren¡¯t for you, the Higgins Group would still be standing!¡±


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    Too pressed for time to bother with her anger, Thiago replied, ¡°If you truly had the ability, why not strike back at us instead of applying for a job here? Are you out of options?¡±


    He then motioned for her to leave. The noise drew Hank into the room. Though he didn¡¯t know Sylvie, the displeasure written on Thiago¡¯s face told him enough. She wasn¡¯t wee here.


    ¡°Please leave,¡± he said to Sylvie.


    Sylvie gave a disdainful snort and walked out reluctantly.<fn9dcb> For original chapters go to Find1Novel</fn9dcb>


    In the corridor, a line of sharply dressed candidates waited patiently. Catching sight of their resumes, she noticed many came from well-known studios, including major animation houses like Legendary Animation and Packer Arts, with some applicants even holding supervisory positions.


    ¡°No way; this can¡¯t be real. Your resume must be made up!¡± Turning on a man in his thirties, Sylvie leveled her usation.


    ¡°What nonsense are you talking about?¡± the man said angrily, pointing at his resume. ¡°Mine is authentic. Be careful with your words, or I¡¯ll sue you!¡± He held out hispany ID. ¡°Look for yourself. I¡¯m a project manager.¡±


    Sylvie nced at the badge, her face warming with embarrassment, and hurried away.


    From the doorway, Hank called, ¡°Next, Dario Morley, to Room 3.¡±


    Sylvie stared at the long line of applicants, unwilling to believe Brenna¡¯spany had grown into something far beyond her grasp.


    Just then, the elevator doors opened, and Brenna stepped out,ing directly face-to-face with Sylvie.


    ¡°So you¡¯re applying here? Bold move,¡± Brenna remarked.


    Frustrated, Sylvie snapped, ¡°Don¡¯t get so smug. Once I work for your rivals, you¡¯ll be the one regretting it!¡±


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    Message from Noah: Have a great weekend dear ones. God loves you and Noah wishes you all the best. (? ?? ? ¨C ? ) ?


    .

 Chapter 1358

    ?Chapter 1358:


    Lorna cast a scornful nce at Sylvie. ¡°Enough with the boasting. If you¡¯re as talented as you im, why not prove it to our boss this instant? But I doubt you have it in you.¡±


    Sylvie was on the verge of a heated retort when a subtle, warning look from Libby made her pause and hold her tongue.


    Brenna, meanwhile, took a leisurely stroll through the fifty-seventh floor, pausing briefly outside the three interview rooms to casually inquire about the candidates¡¯ credentials and achievements before retreating to her office.


    No sooner had she settled in than Ethan burst in, his face alight with excitement. He thrust his phone toward her. ¡°Wonderful news¡ªsomething important just happened!¡±


    Brenna regarded Ethan with a skeptical eye. ¡°What could possibly have you so thrilled?¡±


    She took the phone, which revealed a brief news video. On the day of his coronation, the newly crowned king of Plieca was tragically gunned down as he entered the pce¡¯s grand hall.


    The ten-second clip captured Maxley nked by two women¡ªRosie, resplendent in royal garb on his left, and Bonita on his right. Maxley was brimming with joy, his smile impossible to contain.


    As they waved to the gathered reporters, gunfire shattered the moment. A bullet struck Maxley, and another hit Rosie; both died on the spot.


    Pandemonium ensued, with pce guards swiftlyunching a thorough search, though no culprits had been apprehended by the time the news aired. Brenna reyed the clip several times, struggling to believe it was real.


    ¡°Just like that, they¡¯re gone?¡± Brenna murmured, returning the phone to Ethan. A pang of regret stirred within her¡ªshe had longed to kill Rosie herself for her countless misdeeds. ¡°She got what wasing to her.¡±


    Ethan nodded with cool agreement. ¡°She had iting, no doubt. How about we grab lunch to toast to justice?¡±


    Brenna eagerly agreed, pulling out her own phone to scour thetest headlines about Maxley and Rosie¡¯s assassination, which dominated every major news outlet.


    Discover more on g¦Á?¦Ç¦Òv????s


    That evening, as Brenna stepped into her home, she found everyone assembled in the living room, including Ableson¡¯s family. Their expressions were grave, and the air was thick with solemnity.


    Audrey and Lennon were present, and even Dalton had paused his hectic film schedule to return home.


    ¡°Brenna, you¡¯ve heard the news, haven¡¯t you?¡± Shepard inquired gently.


    Brenna settled onto the plush couch, her face calm, betraying no hint of grief. ¡°You mean the news about Rosie? Yes. Her passing is truly heartbreaking,¡± she said, her voice steady.


    Yet in her heart, Brenna felt no sorrow. Earlier, she had even celebrated with Ethan.


    The Harper family, unaware of Braeden¡¯s dark orchestration of Rosie¡¯s demise, believed it a tragic mishap, an unintended consequence of an attack meant for Maxley.<fnc> Latest content published on find(?)ovel</fnc>


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 Chapter 1359

    ?Chapter 1359:


    ¡°Are you arranging her funeral?¡± Brenna asked, her eyes scanning the room and noting the heavy air of mourning among her kin, though her grandmother was absent.


    Shepard¡¯s voice was measured as he replied, ¡°We¡¯ll send a few of us to represent the family. As Harpers, we hold ourselves to a certain standard and can¡¯t simply overlook a loss like this. Your mother, your uncle, your brother, and I will go.¡±<fna38f> ??? ????? ???????s ??? ?????s??? ?? F¦Énd£Îovel</fna38f>


    Brenna nodded thoughtfully. ¡°Then I¡¯ll stay behind. Has anyone told Grandma about the news?¡±


    Ableson shook his head, his expression somber. ¡°Not yet. Your grandmother¡¯s health has been fragiletely. The shock could be too much for her. Rosie hasn¡¯t reached out to her in ages, nor visited. For now, we¡¯ll keep it a secret¡ªshe won¡¯t suspect a thing.¡±


    Brenna mustered only a faint look of concern. She didn¡¯t really care about Tessa that much.


    That night, under the cover of darkness, the rtives bound for Plieca boarded a flight at half past eleven, leaving Dalton and Brenna alone in the quiet house.


    Dalton, weighed down by his own somber thoughts, spoke little of Rosie before departing the next day to resume filming.


    When Brenna was at work, her phone buzzed with a message from Isabe, apanied by a series of photos.


    That evening, as Brenna stepped into her home, she found everyone assembled in the living room, including Ableson¡¯s family, their expressions grave and the air thick with solemnity.


    Audrey and Lennon were present, and even Dalton had paused his bustling film schedule to return home.


    ¡°Brenna, you¡¯ve heard the news, haven¡¯t you?¡± Shepard inquired gently.


    Brenna settled onto the plush couch, her face a mask of calm, betraying no hint of grief. ¡°You mean the news about Rosie? Yes. Her passing is truly heartbreaking,¡± she said, her voice steady.


    ???????????????? ??????????: ???????¦Í?????????????


    Yet, in her heart, Brenna felt no sorrow. Earlier, she had even celebrated with Ethan.


    The Harper family, unaware of Braeden¡¯s dark orchestration of Rosie¡¯s demise, believed it a tragic mishap, an unintended consequence of an attack meant for Maxley.


    ¡°Are you arranging her funeral?¡± Brenna asked, her eyes scanning the room, noting the heavy air of mourning among her kin, though her grandmother was absent.


    Shepard¡¯s voice was measured as he replied, ¡°We¡¯ll send a few of us to represent the family. As Harpers, we hold ourselves to a certain standard and can¡¯t simply overlook a loss like this. Your mother, your uncle, your brother, and I will go.¡±


    Brenna nodded thoughtfully. ¡°Then I¡¯ll stay behind. Has anyone told Grandma about the news?¡±


    Ableson shook his head, his expression somber. ¡°Not yet. Your grandmother¡¯s health has been fragiletely. The shock could be too much for her. Rosie hasn¡¯t reached out to her in ages, nor visited. For now, we¡¯ll keep it a secret¡ªshe won¡¯t suspect a thing.¡±


    .


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 Chapter 1360

    ?Chapter 1360:


    Brenna only mustered a faint look of concern. She didn¡¯t really care about Tessa that much.


    That night, under the cloak of darkness, the rtives bound for Plieca boarded a flight at half past eleven, leaving Dalton and Brenna alone in the quiet house.


    Dalton, weighed down by his own somber thoughts, spoke little of Rosie before departing the next day to resume his filming.


    When Brenna was at work, her phone buzzed with a message from Isabe, apanied by a series of photos.<fnda26> ???? ????s? ???????s ?? findnovel</fnda26>


    The photos captured Ruby, weathered and worn, sifting through refuse bins, gathering scraps of cardboard, stic bottles, and milk cartons to fill her tattered woven bag.


    Other photos showed Ruby at the market, asking vendors for discarded vegetables.


    Isabe¡¯s message said, ¡°My father passed away a few days ago. I saw him before the end¡ªgaunt, frail, a mere shadow of the man he once was, his back marred by bedsores. Now, my mother is alone, scavenging to get by. Mack¡¯s fallen deep into drugs, unrecognizable and desperate. He can¡¯t afford rent and has moved in with my mother. They¡¯ve asked me for money, but I refused.¡±


    Brenna responded, ¡°I see.¡±


    Though her reply was brief, Isabe knew Brenna¡¯s disdain for the Barrett family ran deep, bordering on loathing. The more wretched their circumstances, the more it secretly delighted Brenna.


    Isabe sent another message. ¡°I¡¯ll keep you posted if anything elsees up.¡±


    Brenna studied the photos again and again, her gaze lingering on Ruby¡¯s graying hair and timeworn face. Ruby was d in clothes from two years ago; though their style looked decent, they were old and dirty.


    Lately, Brenna¡¯s schedule had been relentless. With the animation studio just getting off the ground, there was a never-ending stream of decisions to approve and projects to oversee, even if she didn¡¯t have to do everything herself.


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    She¡¯d been workingte nights all week, making sure the new hires settled in and that operations ran smoothly.


    Today, by the time she finally clocked out, it was already eight in the evening. As she stepped into the elevator, she spotted Ethan holding a cup of juice and a cup of lemon water.


    ¡°Burning the midnight oil, too?¡± Brenna joked, eyeing Ethan¡¯s drinks; they didn¡¯t exactly scream ¡°overtime.¡±


    Ethan grinned. ¡°Yeah. Dorsey died in a car ident recently, so the Chapman Group deal fell through. After a few meetings, we scrapped the partnership with Waldo and switched to the supplier you suggested. Their stuff is just as good, and we¡¯re saving a fortune. Most of my timetely has gone into making sure the transition goes smoothly.¡±


    Brenna epted the juice from him, poking in the straw and realizing just how thirsty she actually was.


    Ethan sipped his lemon water, a small smile on his face as he watched her. ¡°How¡¯s the military projecting along?¡± he asked, his tone warm and casual. Brenna shot him a sideways look. Technically, he shouldn¡¯t be asking about ssified work, but she trusted him.


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 Chapter 1361

    ?Chapter 1361:


    ¡°Everything¡¯s on track. My design passed the required tests, so production has already started,¡± she replied.


    Ethan reached for her hand, his gaze full of quiet affection. ¡°My dad thinks it¡¯s a good time to start talking about our wedding. What do you think?¡±


    Marriage hadn¡¯t been at the top of Brenna¡¯s list, but the thought of spending even a day apart from Ethan had started to feel impossible. Lately, they¡¯d been inseparable, eating lunch together, riding to and from work side by side. Perhaps getting married soon was a good idea.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll talk to my parents, and we can let our families discuss the matter together,¡± Brenna said.


    The answer sent Ethan over the moon. With the elevator still descending, he leaned over and nted a quick kiss on her cheek.


    ¡°Our new home is at Stonefox Manor,¡± Ethan said, excitement in his voice. ¡°I already hired a firm to design the renovations. Once they send us the drafts, you can look them over. If you like what you see, we¡¯ll get started right away.¡± Stonefox Manor happened to be the very neighborhood where Brenna already lived.


    Brenna¡¯s face lit up. ¡°That¡¯s perfect! I love Stonefox Manor. The new ce will be just a quick walk to my parents¡¯ house, so I can see them every day. I really want to make the most of my time with them while I still can, so this works out beautifully.¡±


    Ethan squeezed Brenna¡¯s hand, matching her excitement. ¡°That¡¯s exactly why I picked it,¡± he said, leading her out of the elevator.


    Ever since Rosie¡¯s death and the military¡¯s capture of the assassins hired by her, Brenna had finally felt at ease. Libby and Finley had returned to their posts, and Brenna no longer needed bodyguards shadowing her everywhere.


    If not for that, Ethan probably would¡¯ve felt a bit self-conscious about kissing Brenna like this.


    Outside the building, Neville was already waiting with the car.


    Brenna said to Ethan, ¡°Thanks for the drink; it was exactly what I needed.¡±


    Ethan apanied Brenna to her home, going to join her for dinner as usual. ¡°Hey, Mom, Dad, Ernst, when did youe back?¡± Brenna said as soon as she stepped inside, surprised by the lively atmosphere in her house.


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    Her father¡¯s boomingugh echoed in the room.


    Ethan greeted Brenna¡¯s family warmly.


    Shepard waved him over. ¡°Ethan, don¡¯t just stand there; join us for dinner!¡±<fn99a7> Newest update provided by find~novel</fn99a7>


    Brenna washed her hands and settled in at the table.


    ¡°So, Mom, Dad, how was your trip? Did everything go smoothly?¡± she asked, remembering they¡¯d stayed longer than nned in Plieca.


    Shepard¡¯s face turned serious. ¡°When we got there, Plieca was basically on lockdown. Security was tight, and movement was restricted. Their authoritiesunched an investigation into Maxley and Rosie¡¯s deaths, but it didn¡¯t go anywhere¡ªthe assassins were already long gone. Now, the prince who ced second in the polls has risen to the throne.¡±


    After a pause, he continued, ¡°We stuck around for a few days, and the new king finally issued a statement: Rosie and Maxley were killed by terrorists. No organization or individual has imed responsibility, so it looks like this case will¡­¡±


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 Chapter 1362

    ?Chapter 1362:


    ¡°¡­just be left unresolved. Your uncle Ableson¡¯s still in Plieca, sorting through what Rosie left behind.¡±


    Brenna wasn¡¯t the least bit surprised. That was just how governments operated¡ªgive the victim¡¯s family members some official exnation, then quietly let things drop.


    With Braeden¡¯s people vanished, it was obvious nothing woulde of the investigation.


    It might go on for a while, but eventually, the whole thing would be quietly swept under the rug.


    ¡°Dad, are you going to keep pushing for answers?¡± Brenna asked, knowing that Rosie had been like a daughter to her parents for decades; surely there were some lingering emotions.


    Shepard¡¯s expression hardly shifted. ¡°There¡¯s really no point. We¡¯ll monitor the situation, but it alles down to how the new king wants to handle things. We¡¯ve let him know we¡¯re keeping an eye on the matter.¡±


    Seeing Shepard so detached, Brenna felt a bit happy. At least he wasn¡¯t consumed by grief or revenge over Rosie¡¯s death.


    Just then, Giselle spoke up. ¡°Rosie made plenty of enemies. Look at her behavior thesest two years. She schemed against her own family, and I¡¯m sure she was twice as ruthless with outsiders. With that, it¡¯s not surprising someone decided to take her out. As long as we recover the assets she left behind, there¡¯s no need to dig any deeper.¡±<fndcf6> Content originallyes from Find~Novel</fndcf6>


    Shepard let out a gentle hum, his voice warm and reassuring. ¡°Brenna, I¡¯ve had a word with your uncle. All of Rosie¡¯spanies will pass to you. You¡¯ve got a knack for business, my dear, and the handful of ventures you¡¯re currently steering could use a boost in profits. Lennon and Audrey have no interest in the corporate world, Ernst has his hands full, and Dalton¡¯s chasing stardom in film. You¡¯re the natural choice to take the helm of Rosie¡¯s enterprises. Just say yes.¡±


    Brenna shared a nce with Ethan, who chimed in with a nod of encouragement. ¡°From what I¡¯ve seen, Rosie¡¯spanies in Plieca are thriving, with plenty of room to grow. You¡¯d be wise to take them on.¡±


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    Brenna didn¡¯t hesitate this time. ¡°Alright, Dad, I¡¯ll take them,¡± she said to Shepard, her voice steady with resolve.


    Ernst, brimming with enthusiasm, said, ¡°There is more, Brenna. The 20% shares Rosie held will be split among us, 4% each. Can you believe it? When we dug into her assets, we found the shares were never properly transferred to her. The agreement was wed, and it¡¯s baffling how such a ring oversight slipped through.¡±


    ¡°It seems I¡¯ve gained more shares. Ernst, tell me¡ªhow could Rosie, someone usually so sharp and cautious, have overlooked something so important?¡± The brothers exchanged knowing looks. Ernst had a hunch Brenna might have had a hand in the matter, but he kept it to himself, as did the others.


    Since Rosie had never caught the error before her passing, no one saw the need to pursue it further.


    Ethan sensed the atmosphere at home was far from mournful¡ªno one seemed to be grieving Rosie¡¯s death. Seizing the moment, he decided to broach a more joyful topic.


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 Chapter 1363

    ?Chapter 1363:


    ¡°Mr. and Mrs. Harper, there is something I would like to discuss with you,¡± he said, his tone earnest.


    Shepard set down his fork, his eyes locking onto Ethan with curiosity. ¡°Oh? What has got you so serious?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s about Brenna and our wedding,¡± Ethan replied. ¡°My father thinks it¡¯s time both families sit down to n and set a date for the wedding.¡±


    Shepard didn¡¯t miss a beat. ¡°Alright. How about Saturday evening? You pick the ce.¡±


    He knew Brenna¡¯s heart belonged to Ethan and wouldn¡¯t dream of standing in her way.


    ncing at his daughter, he caught her radiant smile and added softly, ¡°I just wish I could keep you close a bit longer.¡±


    Ethan, quick to ease any concerns, reassured him, ¡°Mr. Harper, the home I¡¯ve prepared for us is right here in the neighborhood. Brenna can visit you anytime she likes.¡±


    Saturday arrived soon.


    Shepard cleared his schedule, slipped into a sharp suit, and turned to his wife. ¡°Does this look alright? Will it do for the asion?¡±


    Giselle, adjusting his tie with a tender touch, smiled. ¡°You look perfect.¡±


    Ernst also took care with his appearance, determined not to embarrass Brenna. Ableson and his wife arrived, exuding elegance and poise.


    Brenna, meanwhile, chose a vibrant orange dress from her closet, pairing it with a chic brown handbag. She gave herself a final nce in the mirror, pleased with her reflection, and called out, ¡°Mom, Dad, let¡¯s go! Ethan is waiting.¡±


    In under an hour, the Harper family arrived at a luxurious five-star restaurant.


    Emmett and his new wife were already at the entrance, waiting for them.


    At nearly the same moment, Elsa and Kenny arrived.


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    Elsa¡¯s eyes widened as she spotted the striking woman beside Emmett, dressed in a crisp military uniform that matched his own. She looked to be in her forties, radiant and impably groomed.


    ¡°Who is that woman?¡± Elsa demanded, her voice edged with frustration. Loneliness had left her unsettled, and for the first time, she began to wonder¡ªsince she and her ex-husband had never truly had any real issues¡ªwhether reconciliation might still be within reach.


    She had intended to suggest the possibility of reconciling with Emmett today, but to her dismay, only six months after their divorce, he had already found someone new¡ªa woman both younger and more attractive than her. The discovery left her seething.


    Kenny, who had known about his father¡¯s remarriage and had even attended the wedding, shifted ufortably.


    ¡°Mom, that is Dad¡¯s new wife. They tied the knot two months ago,¡± Kenny said, his voice tinged with unease.<fn502e> Checktest chapters at F¦Énd£Îovel</fn502e>


    A wave of frustration crashed over Elsa. ¡°You knew about this the whole time? Why on earth didn¡¯t you say anything?¡± she demanded, her voice trembling with hurt.


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 Chapter 1364

    ?Chapter 1364:


    Kenny felt resigned, searching for the right words. ¡°Dad told me to keep it a secret from you to avoid any drama. He figured since you two aren¡¯t on good terms, he didn¡¯t need your approval to remarry, so he saw no reason to tell you about the matter.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s anger red, her carefullyid ns unraveling.


    She had taken great care with her appearance today, slipping into the elegant outfit Brenna had gifted her and applying makeup with precision, hoping Emmett might see the spark of her beauty still shining.


    She had even nned to soften her stance toward Emmett.


    But reality had other ns. Emmett had already moved on, his heart imed by another.


    ¡°I poured so much care and effort into raising you, and this is how you repay me?¡± Elsa snapped at Kenny, her voice thick with betrayal.


    Kenny, sensing a storm brewing, gently urged her to step out of the car. ¡°Mom, please, today¡¯s about my brother¡¯s wedding ns. Let¡¯s not let your frustration cast a shadow over it.¡±


    Reluctantly, Elsa emerged from the car, just as the Harpers were sharing warm greetings with Emmett and his new wife.


    Emmett¡¯s face lit up with genuine delight as he said to Ableson, ¡°Ableson, who would¡¯ve thought we would end up as family one day? Come on, let¡¯s head inside.¡±


    Elsa flung open the car door, fury etched across her features. She brushed off Kenny¡¯s warning and stormed straight toward Emmett.


    Kenny hurried after her and caught her arm. ¡°Mom, Dad¡¯s moved on. No matter what you say, you¡¯re not going to change anything. Please, don¡¯t make a scene and ruin this for my brother.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s re could have burned a hole through Emmett, who was grinning, clearly pleased with himself.


    Kenny continued, ¡°If you want to get married again, both my brother and I could introduce you to plenty of eligible men. With everything you have going for you, finding someone new would be easy for you.¡±


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    ¡°Enough!¡± Elsa shot back, voice sharp with rage. ¡°Do I seem that desperate to you? I¡¯m perfectly fine on my own. I don¡¯t need to find anyone!¡±


    With her temper ring, Elsa couldn¡¯t help but find fault with everyone around her.


    Brenna noticed Elsa¡¯s simmering anger but decided to stay out of it, simply exchanging a knowing look with Ethan.


    Once inside the private dining room, Elsa waspelled to sit next to Emmett, with his new bride on his other side.


    Elsa leaned over and whispered, her voice dripping with sarcasm, ¡°Couldn¡¯t waste a second, huh? You just had to run after the next woman so soon.¡±<fn47d8> Fresh chapters posted on f?ndnovel</fn47d8>


    Emmett shrugged, unfazed. ¡°Why do you care who I marry? It¡¯s my life. If you¡¯re so bothered by it, you should go get married as well.¡±


    Elsa smirked, not missing a beat. ¡°Marrying someone so young¡ªthink you can actually keep up with her in bed?¡±


    A flicker of annoyance crossed Emmett¡¯s face. ¡°You should know that better than anyone. I¡¯m nning to have a daughter soon, in fact.¡±


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 Chapter 1365

    ?Chapter 1365:


    Elsa rolled her eyes, disgusted. ¡°You really have no shame.¡±


    Emmett said, ¡°I put up with your attitude for years, and I¡¯m done. My new wife is sweet and never argues with me. My life¡¯s actually peaceful for once. Leaving you was the best thing I ever did.¡±


    Elsa shot back without missing a beat, ¡°Just you wait. Give it a couple of years, and you¡¯ll be signing divorce papers again.¡±<fn55eb> Read full story at find¡¤novel</fn55eb>


    She couldn¡¯t stand sitting near him any longer, so she switched seats, a fresh wave of resentment crashing over her.


    It felt like everyone, including her own sons, was on Emmett¡¯s side.


    Emmett ignored her and slid a folder across the table. ¡°Here. I had some dates in mind for the wedding. Pick one, and let¡¯s lock it in.¡±


    Shepard and Giselle exchanged a nce. They had already gone over the dates themselves and had quietly settled on one that was six months away.


    After a brief look, theynded on November 16th.


    ¡°This works,¡± Shepard said, nodding at Emmett, sealing the decision without a second thought.


    Neither man bothered to include Elsa in the discussion, making her feel ignored. Her patience snapped. She mmed her fist on the table, her voice rising above the chatter. ¡°I don¡¯t agree! You never even asked my opinion! I¡¯m his mother. How can you leave me out of this? Without my approval, this wedding¡ª¡±


    Ethan¡¯s face tightened. He¡¯d thought he¡¯d considered everyone¡¯s perspective except Elsa¡¯s, but just days ago, Elsa had epted Brenna. He had thought there was no need for a special discussion with her, but now¡­


    ¡°Mom, what¡¯s this about?¡± Ethan asked, trying to keep his tone steady. ¡°Brenna and I are getting married; that¡¯s final. Please don¡¯t cause trouble for us.¡±


    Emmett¡¯s expression darkened as he scoffed. ¡°Your mother always has to have the final say. Otherwise, she throws a tantrum. Elsa, let me make this clear: nobody¡¯s asking for your permission. This is just an announcement. Try not to make a scene for once.¡±


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    Shepard and Giselle traded a look, neither one hiding their anger.


    Giselle turned to Elsa. ¡°Why not take a look at these dates and let us know if you see one you like?¡±


    Elsa immediately reached for the folder in Emmett¡¯s hand. ¡°Hand it over. I should at least help my own son choose his wedding date.¡±


    Emmett rolled his eyes. ¡°What¡¯s the point? Brenna¡¯s parents already picked a great date. Or are you nning to stir up trouble just to be difficult? If you want to sabotage this, let me tell you, there¡¯s no chance. We¡¯ve already agreed on this. Your opposition is meaningless.¡±


    Sensing things were about to get out of hand, Kenny rushed to soothe Elsa, saying, ¡°Mom, every date on that list is good. It¡¯s just about picking one that fits best. Please, don¡¯t make this harder than it needs to be.¡±


    Ethan, knowing Elsa cared about appearances, said, ¡°Right, Mom. This is just a small detail. Let¡¯s move on and talk about the wedding itself. Any ideas you¡¯d like to share?¡±


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 Chapter 1366

    ?Chapter 1366:


    That finally seemed to appease Elsa. At least Ethan knew how to show her respect, unlike Kenny, who barely treated her like family anymore. His wife had given birth to a child, yet he didn¡¯t even let her visit.


    ¡°Alright then, let¡¯s get to the rest of the nning. Once it¡¯s all settled, we can start preparing everything,¡± Elsa said.


    Emmett smirked to himself. As far as he was concerned, Ethan¡¯s wedding was the Mitchell family¡¯s affair, and Elsa wouldn¡¯t need to prepare anything. Was she going to pay for the house or cover the wedding expenses? That was unlikely. Then why should her opinion matter at all?


    Emmett presented the gift list to the Harper family.


    The Mitchell family had assembled an extravagant wedding offering: a staggering two billion dors, a bespoke Porsche sedan, five prime real estate properties¡­


    The list was long, and the Harper family examined it with keen interest. Even Giselle, who wanted to be strict, could find no w in thevish gifts.


    Elsa, who hadn¡¯t been privy to the list beforehand and was denied the chance to review it first, wore an expression of displeasure.


    Emmett, unfazed by her evident irritation, carried on without acknowledging her mood.


    After concluding the wedding ns, the two families had a meal, theirughter and conversation stretching well past ten in the evening.


    Brenna couldn¡¯t help but notice Elsa¡¯s persistent scowl, as though everyone present had offended her.


    On the drive home, with Ethan at the wheel and Brenna in the passenger seat, she broached the subject delicately.


    ¡°Did you notice your mom seemed to be in a bad mood tonight?¡± she asked.


    Ethan, feeling a touch awkward, nodded. ¡°I did. That¡¯s just how she is. Just ignore her.¡±


    Brenna tilted her head, staring at Ethan. ¡°Didn¡¯t you say she had changed for the better? She seemed her old self tonight.¡±


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    Ethan reached for Brenna¡¯s hand, his touch gentle. ¡°Don¡¯t let it get under your skin. If she causes you trouble, just let me know, and I¡¯ll sort it out.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s lips curved into a warm smile. ¡°I can handle a few ripples on my own, you know.¡±


    Gazing out the window, she took in the livelymercial street, still abuzz at night with vibrant food stalls.


    Ruby, d in a worn workman¡¯s jacket and a scavenged baseball cap, trudged along with a woven sack half-filled with stic bottles, cans, and scraps of cardboard.


    Her posture stooped, her gray hair a stark contrast to the night, she appeared far older than her years, resembling a woman in her seventies.


    As luxury cars sped by, Ruby¡¯s eyes lingered on the Harper family¡¯s sleek vehicles, a flicker of yearning and nostalgia in her gaze.


    Once, she too had ridden in such opulence, but now she scraped by, collecting refuse under the cover of night.


    .<fn50ed> This content belongs to find¡¤novel</fn50ed>


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 Chapter 1367

    ?Chapter 1367:<fna2ab> Checktest chapters at fin?novel</fna2ab>


    By day, she swept streets as a cleaner; by night, she gathered recybles, driven by the ceaseless demands of her drug-addicted son.


    Ahead, perched atop a trash can,y a discarded bouquet of roses and an exquisite cake. Ruby hastened her steps, but she was still toote.


    Another elderly scavenger, an old man, had already imed the cake. Ruby reached for the roses.


    She knew that at times, women would turn away from roses and leave cakes untouched simply because their hearts held no fondness for the men who offered them.


    Every so often, a glimmer of fortuney concealed within the roses¡ªperhaps a ring or a ne¡ªtreasures that, once discovered, could amount to several months¡¯ earnings for her.


    But before Ruby could grasp it, the old man snatched the bouquet.


    ¡°Elm Street is my turf. Who gave you permission to rummage through the garbage here? Show up here again, and you¡¯ll regret it.¡± Though his clothes were tattered and age had etched lines upon his face, the old man had an intimidating presence.


    Ruby, never one to shrink from a challenge, shot back, ¡°Who do you think you are, chasing me off? This street doesn¡¯t belong to you. I¡¯lle and go as I please!¡±


    The old man¡¯s eyes narrowed, his finger jabbing toward Ruby menacingly. ¡°Say that again?¡±


    Unfazed, Ruby said, ¡°I¡¯ll say it a hundred times if I want. You don¡¯t scare me!¡± She lunged forward to hit him.


    The old man, not one to back down, dropped his haul and fought with Ruby. Years of hardbor on the streets had made him far sturdier than Ruby, and within moments, he had struck her down, leaving her sprawled on the ground.


    Fuming, Ruby eximed, ¡°How dare you shove me! Do you even know who my daughter is? She is a member of the powerful Harper family!¡±


    The old manughed derisively. ¡°Sure, and mine is the president¡¯s daughter!¡± He didn¡¯t buy Ruby¡¯s ims for a second.


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    Ruby staggered back to her feet and hurled herself at the old man once more. With a swift kick, he sent her crashing down, then struck her with a few more brutal blows. ¡°Get out of here! Push me again, and I¡¯ll cripple you.¡±


    Ruby fell to the ground again, her hand grazing the rough pavement, a thin trickle of blood marking her pain. She winced, her eyes shing with defiance as she red at the old man rummaging through the nearby trash. The cake and the bouquety abandoned on the ground. Ruby looked at them for what felt like an eternity before scooping them up and running away. The old man caught sight of her fleeing figure and gave chase, his hand quickly snatching her hair and yanking her back to the ground.


    ¡°You bitch! Do you really think I won¡¯t beat you up?¡± he shouted, snatching the items back andnding a flurry of blows and kicks on Ruby¡¯s trembling frame. Rubyy there, battered and breathless, her cries of pain echoing in the stillness.


    After a while, the old man finally stopped, gathered his belongings, and shuffled toward the next dumpster.


    After what seemed like forever, Ruby stirred, her body aching as she staggered to her feet. She searched desperately for her woven bag, filled with a night¡¯s worth of scavenged recybles, but it was gone¡ªtaken by the old man.


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 Chapter 1368

    ?Chapter 1368:


    ¡°Do you see something out there?¡± Ethan asked, leaning in to get a better view with Brenna. Outside the car, an old woman was awkwardly trying to pull herself up from the pavement.


    Brenna withdrew her gaze, her face unreadable. Earlier, she¡¯d caught sight of an old man hitting the woman from afar. Recognition hit instantly; she knew the woman was Ruby. But in her opinion, whatever pain Ruby felt was nothingpared to what she deserved.


    She figured she¡¯d already done Ruby a favor by not actively making her life harder.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing,¡± she said quietly.


    Saturday arrived, and Brenna didn¡¯t wake up until almost noon. A string of notifications greeted her when she checked her phone.


    Ellie had sent her several messages. ¡°This pregnancy is getting so ufortable. I just want the baby out already. I¡¯m dying for some seafood¡ªdo you want to grab lunch with me?¡±


    ¡°Seriously, how long do you n on sleeping? Are we still on for lunch? I¡¯m already waiting outside your house¡¯s entrance.¡±


    Isabe had also sent her a message. ¡°Hey Brenna, want to check in on Mack and see how he¡¯s doing these days?¡±


    Brenna responded to Ellie first. ¡°Heading out now, Ellie. Give me ten minutes.¡±


    She then tapped out her reply to Isabe. ¡°Let¡¯s do it tonight.¡±


    Not wasting a minute, Brenna swept on a bit of makeup, snatched her bag, and made her way out the door.


    With Ernst¡¯s weddinging up next week, most of the Harper family staff had been sent to help set up his new ce, making the main house feel unusually empty.


    Read new content at g?ln¦Òv???s


    Even Julia wasn¡¯t around, having gone over to help as well.


    Giselle had taken it upon herself to supervise the preparations in person.


    ¡°Miss Harper, aren¡¯t you staying for lunch?¡± Kacie Carrillo, one of the servants, asked. ¡°It¡¯s almost done.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t be having lunch here. I¡¯ve got ns to eat out with a friend,¡± Brenna said, taking three beef patties and some yogurt from the kitchen on her way out.


    Outside, Ellie sat waiting by the car, Patrick beside her on a bench near the gates.


    As soon as she spotted Brenna, Ellie let out a groan. ¡°You said ten minutes, but it has been half an hour.¡±


    Brenna held up the food container with a little grin. ¡°Cut me some ck. I brought you something fresh from the kitchen. It smells amazing.¡±<fn83ae> Content originallyes from Find?Novel</fn83ae>


    Patrick took a deep breath, his eyes lighting up. ¡°Wow, that smells amazing! I¡¯m starving, Brenna. Our cook at home doesn¡¯t evene close to yours in terms of cooking skills.¡±


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 Chapter 1369

    ?Chapter 1369:


    Brenna tousled Patrick¡¯s hair, handing him a container and a box of yogurt. ¡°I¡¯ll start bringing you something delicious more often, then.¡±


    With a teasing grin, Ellie took the beef patties and yogurt, throwing a yful nce at her son. ¡°You are lying. Aren¡¯t you always bragging about how amazing our chef is?¡±


    Patrick took a big bite, clearly savoring the vors. ¡°Honestly, Mom, I said that because our chef¡¯s cooking skills are better than yours. Brenna¡¯s family chef is in a league of their own.¡±


    Ellie took a bite, then shed a thoughtful smile. ¡°This really is delicious. Maybe it¡¯s time we started looking for someone new in our kitchen.¡±


    Patrick was bursting with excitement after hearing that. ¡°We definitely should!¡±


    Once they¡¯d polished off the snacks, the group piled into the car and made their way to the seafood ce.


    ¡°Brenna, everything at school feels too basic for me. What should I do?¡± Patrick said to Brenna in the car, looking frustrated. ¡°I¡¯m bored in every ss, the lessons are dull, and I already know all the material.¡±


    Brenna looked at him, impressed. ¡°That¡¯s an easy fix. Why not skip a grade? Just ask your dad to handle it.¡±


    Patrick lit up and nodded. ¡°That¡¯s exactly what Dad suggested!¡±


    His curiosity bubbled over. ¡°Brenna, have you started working on anything cool? I¡¯ve yed with every toy I have, and I¡¯m getting bored.¡±<fn8d83> This text is hosted at F¦ÉndNovel</fn8d83>


    Augh escaped Brenna. ¡°Let me guess, you¡¯ve heard something from your dad, haven¡¯t you?¡±


    A faint blush crept up Patrick¡¯s cheeks as he admitted, ¡°He told me you¡¯re building some advanced robots. Can you give me one when you¡¯re done?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely,¡± Brenna replied with a wink. ¡°You¡¯ll be the first to get your hands on it.¡±


    Updates loaded now at g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Íe?s


    When they arrived at their favorite seafood spot, the waiter came over with a wide smile, rmending the imported tuna and lobster to Brenna and Ellie. Brenna skimmed the menu, quickly ordering her favorite dishes and adding the tuna and lobster the waiter had suggested.


    Patrick sat quietly, every so often reaching over to gently touch his mother¡¯s stomach.


    Soon, tters of seafood began to fill the table.


    When the server brought their food, she seemed uneasy the moment her gazended on Brenna. She set the tes down in a rush, eyes averted, then slipped away as quickly as possible.


    Brenna didn¡¯t notice it, her attention fixed on a text exchange with Ethan. Still, she sensed that something was off.


    After the server had left, Ellie nudged Brenna gently and lowered her voice. ¡°Wasn¡¯t that Sylvie? What¡¯s she doing waiting tables here?¡±


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 Chapter 1370

    ?Chapter 1370:


    ¡°Really? I was busy texting and didn¡¯t even see her,¡± Brenna replied, ncing toward the kitchen, only to find that the server was already gone.


    Ellie shrugged. ¡°Anyway, let¡¯s dig in. I¡¯ve really missed this ce; it¡¯s been ages since Ist dined here.¡±


    Meanwhile, in the kitchen, Sylvie was caught off guard by the unexpected encounter with Brenna. She¡¯d been bouncing from one job to the next, desperate for anything that paid. Her family¡¯s finances had crumbled, leaving them no choice but to sell their house, yet the mountain of debt still lingered. When her father disappeared with his mistress, everything fell on Sylvie¡¯s shoulders.


    Now, she shared a small rental with her ailing mother, who couldn¡¯t work, leaving her to support them both.


    News of the Barrett family¡¯s downfall had spread, and Sylvie silently felt fortunate that she hadn¡¯t provoked Brenna too much before. Otherwise, her own situation could have been even worse.


    Sylvie couldn¡¯t shake the suspicion that the Harper family¡¯s meddling was a big reason the Higgins family¡¯s business had kept slipping over the years.


    It was clear now that crossing Brenna was a serious mistake.


    Sylvie knew that if she wanted things to go more smoothly for her in the future, she needed to win Brenna over.


    She stood there, caught up in her own thoughts, searching for the right move. She nced at Brenna, poised and self-assured. She suddenly realized she didn¡¯t dislike her that much. Most of her old grudge had been stirred up by Rosie¡¯s schemes.


    After a long internal debate, Sylvie finally found the courage to approach Brenna¡¯s table.


    She carried over a tray of fresh fruit, aplimentary treat for high-spending guests.


    F???????? ???????????????? ???????? g???????¦Í??????.?????


    Even though Brenna hadn¡¯t settled the bill yet, it was obvious she¡¯d already spent more than enough to get this, so Sylvie felt justified in bringing it.


    With quiet care, Sylvie set the tter in front of Brenna, then bowed.


    ¡°I owe you an apology, Miss Harper.¡± Ever since Rosie¡¯s passing, Sylvie¡¯s outlook had shifted.


    What she had once thought was right now feltpletely wrong.


    Looking back, she realized that Rosie had used her as a pawn, always manipting things to serve her own interests. She had fallen for Rosie¡¯s tricks back then.


    Brenna put down her fork, confusion crossing her face. She hadn¡¯t gone out of her way to make life hard for Sylvie, so she didn¡¯t understand why Sylvie was apologizing to her.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Brenna asked, trying to make sense of Sylvie¡¯s actions.


    Sylvie straightened, her face earnest. ¡°I need to be honest; I made a lot of mistakes before. I said and did things I regret. Miss Harper, I hope you can believe that I realize my mistakes now. Rosie filled my head with all sorts of awful things about you, and that¡¯s why I acted the way I did. But after all this time, I know that as long as I didn¡¯t cross you, you never went out of your way to make trouble for me. You¡¯re nothing like the person Rosie described. You¡¯re actually kind and incredibly sharp.¡±


    .


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    .<fn245e> ???s ??????? ?s ?????? ?? Find[?]ovel</fn245e>

 Chapter 1371

    ?Chapter 1371:


    Brenna listened, her brows drawing together in mild puzzlement. ¡°If you have something to say, just say it,¡± she replied.


    Realizing how calm and straightforward Brenna was being, Sylvie felt a wave of relief. She understood now that Brenna would hear her out as long as she spoke politely.


    ¡°I just want to apologize to you; I am truly sorry,¡± Sylvie said.


    ¡°That¡¯s all behind us now. You¡¯ve already taken responsibility and paid the price, so there¡¯s no need to keep apologizing to me,¡± Brenna answered, her face expressionless, although she could tell Sylvie truly regretted her actions.


    Sylvie¡¯s shoulders rxed in relief. ¡°Thank you for being so understanding. I heard Isabe is working at your shop now. I¡¯m good at what I do. I did well in school, and I have experience in marketing. Would you consider hiring me, even for an entry-level position or in a different city? I¡¯d really appreciate any opportunity.¡±


    After saying her piece, Sylvie kept her eyes on Brenna, though she didn¡¯t have much hope. She had given Brenna plenty of reasons to say no. It would be understandable if Brenna refused.


    Several moments passed as Brenna looked at Sylvie. Then she finally broke the silence. ¡°You have my forgiveness.¡±


    Sylvie lingered for a while, hoping Brenna would say something about work, but nothing came. Letting out a quiet sigh, she turned to leave.


    Just then, Brenna spoke up again. ¡°I¡¯m opening a gship shop in Plomond soon. We¡¯ll be hiring, and you¡¯re wee to apply. Whether you get the job will depend on your skills.¡±


    Joy washed over Sylvie, and her eyes lit up. ¡°Thank you so much! I promise I¡¯ll try my best!¡±


    Once Sylvie left, Ellie turned to Brenna. ¡°There¡¯s no reason for you to help her. She¡¯s the one who caused her current problems.¡±


    Full chapter updat3z at g??lnovels.??????


    Brenna¡¯s gaze remained steady. ¡°Having more friends is always smarter than making more enemies. I checked into her background. Most of what happened was because Rosie manipted her. She isn¡¯t a bad person at her core. Even Vivian, who used to be thick as thieves with Rosie, showed up to apologize to me before. Rosie always had a way of using others to carry out her dirty work. I am willing to forgive the people who were manipted by her.¡±


    Ellie offered a nod, her agreement clear. ¡°I get what you mean. Judy was probably wrapped up in Rosie¡¯s games, too. I doubt she ever truly held a grudge against you.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s my take as well,¡± Brenna replied, realizing that with Rosie gone, the list of people who disliked her would shrink dramatically, maybe even vanish. Most of them would now want to be on her good side simply because of her influence.


    Later, Sylvie spotted news about uing gship stores opening in several major cities.


    It wasn¡¯t just one location. Brenna¡¯spany had big expansion ns.<fn36eb> Original content can be found at FindN()vel</fn36eb>


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 Chapter 1372

    ?Chapter 1372:


    ¡°There will definitely be many job openings. As long as I perform well, I can secure a sales position,¡± Sylvie muttered, her determination building as she read thetest announcements on thepany¡¯s website.


    ¡°Food¡¯s ready, Sylvie!¡± one of the kitchen staff called out.


    Slipping her phone into her pocket, Sylvie hurried over. ¡°Coming.¡±


    The truth was, her waitress gig barely covered the essentials. After rent, there were only a couple of thousand dors left, not nearly enough for both her and her mother to live on.


    She needed a job that paid better.


    As Brenna prepared to leave, Sylvie approached with a small souvenir from the restaurant and handed it to Patrick. ¡°This is for you.¡±


    .


    Ellie was a little over seven months pregnant, and getting around had be harder for her with each passing week. That was why Brenna went with her to shop for baby supplies. They filled their cart with nkets, diapers, tiny clothes, and everything else a newborn could possibly need. They also bought cribs and strollers.


    They didn¡¯t stop at just one crib. They bought three: one for the downstairs living room, another for the upstairs bedroom, and one more for Ellie¡¯s studio, in case she ever had to bring the baby there.


    When it came to strollers, they went overboard as well. Big ones, small ones¡ªevery one that seemed useful found its way into their pile.


    Before heading home, they tossed in a couple of toys for Patrick, too. The three of them spent the whole afternoon shopping. By the time they were done, Ellie was exhausted.


    ¡°All set now. We¡¯ve got everything we need,¡± Ellie said.


    ???????? ?????????????? ???? ??????????????????.??????


    ¡°If you can¡¯t get outter and need something, just tell me. I¡¯ll pick it up for you,¡± Brenna said. She helped Ellie into the car, then drove her and Patrick home.


    By seven o¡¯clock in the evening, Brenna arrived at the Imperial Bar.


    Mack had been spending his evenings heretely.


    The ce was one of Ethan¡¯s businesses, a high-end spot where even the cheapest drink cost about a thousand dors.


    Naturally, it drew in Shirie¡¯s wealthy and powerful.


    Mack was a recent addition to the scene. He strolled in wearing a loud floral shirt, no tie, and the top three buttons undone, showing off his chest. He had even put on foundation to hide the dark circles under his eyes and make himself appear less tired.


    The ce was filled with wealthy women out for a good time.


    Mack, pleased with his appearance, felt sure one of them would take a liking to him.


    .


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    .<fn19fb> Find the newest release on find?novel</fn19fb>

 Chapter 1373

    ?Chapter 1373:


    From the car, Brenna and Isabe watched him.


    Isabe leaned closer and exined, ¡°Not long ago, Mack was working the crowd at another bar. There was this woman, Gia, who really liked him. She would tip him¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­a hundred thousand or more just to have him in her private room.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s really fine with selling himself like that?¡± Brenna asked, baffled. She¡¯d known Mack was in this line of work, but hearing about it was one thing; seeing it in person was another.


    Watching Mack fawn over women made her stomach turn.


    Isabe wasn¡¯t fond of Mack, either. Lately, he had been calling and texting her nonstop, always asking for money.


    Fortunately, Isabe had just filed for a transfer to Plomond and given up her rented ce in Shirie. Otherwise, Mack would have been knocking at her door by now.


    ¡°Honestly, Brenna, Mack has no principles,¡± Isabe said. ¡°He¡¯ll do whatever it takes to get ahead. But back when he was looking for work, he was too proud to take anything he thought was beneath him¡ªsales, car washing, even driving a taxi. He used to say those jobs were for losers. The management positions he wanted? Nobody would give him those. I had to listen to him rant about it all the time.¡±


    Through the car window, Brenna watched as Mack got brushed off and cursed at by one woman after another. She couldn¡¯t help thinking he was reaping what he had sown.


    An hour passed, and still no one picked him.


    Mack¡¯s frustration was evident. He stood there at a loss until a middle-aged man approached him.


    ¡°How about a couple of drinks with me?¡± the man asked.


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    Mack froze. ¡°Mr. Hardy¡­¡±


    The man was Sanford Hardy. He hade around just a few nights earlier and nearly worn Mack out. He was generous, yes, but far rougher than any woman Mack had been with.


    Mack wasn¡¯t eager for a repeat.


    When it came down to money or his own well-being, he would choose thetter without hesitation.


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­ uh, not feeling great today,¡± Mack stammered.


    Sanford smirked, gave his cheek a light pat, and slipped a small bag of white pills from his jacket pocket. ¡°Running low on these, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    As Mack reached for the bag, Sanford pulled it back. ¡°Keep me happy, and I¡¯ll give you twenty grand plus ten pills.¡±


    Mack hesitated. He was down to hisst pill, and if he didn¡¯t bring in money tonight, tomorrow was going to be hell for him.<fn5080> Discover more novels at find{n}ovel</fn5080>


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 Chapter 1374

    ?Chapter 1374:


    ¡°How long has he been using?¡± Brenna asked, her eyes fixed on the pills in Sanford¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Almost a year,¡± Isabe replied. ¡°He took the money my dad left me and burned through it on that junk. Now he won¡¯t stop asking me for money, always saying he¡¯s broke.¡±


    After a pause, she asked, ¡°Brenna, do you want me to get someone to get rid of him?¡±


    ¡°Nah. This is better. Let him sink on his own. He can feel the world¡¯s cruelty piece by piece. He hasn¡¯t suffered nearly enough yet.¡±


    Isabe could tell Brenna still believed Mack was getting off too easy. She was already thinking of ways to stir up trouble for him.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go inside and grab a drink.¡± Brenna stepped out of the car with Isabe. Together, they walked inside.


    The Imperial Bar¡¯s lobby manager spotted Brenna at once and hurried over. ¡°Miss Harper, let me show you to Mr. Mitchell¡¯s exclusive private room.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s eyes swept the hall until she found Mack. He was in a circr booth, stering on fake smiles while perched on Sanford¡¯sp.


    The manager caught the direction of her gaze but couldn¡¯t figure out what she was thinking.


    After a pause, he gestured toward a semi-open room upstairs. ¡°How about up there, Miss Harper?¡±


    Brenna looked up. From that spot, she would have a perfect view of Mack. ¡°Sure,¡± she said. ¡°Lead the way.¡±


    Brenna didn¡¯t linger at the bar. After downing a couple of orange juices and catching up with Isabe, she called it a night and headed home.


    Back at home, she noticed Ethan had sent over a flurry of pictures, every shot featuring a round-cheeked baby.


    ?????????? ?????????? ?????????????? at ????????¦Í????????????


    A message then popped up from Ethan. ¡°Guess what? I¡¯m an uncle now!¡±


    Brenna replied, ¡°Congrattions! We need to go meet this little cutie soon.¡±


    ¡°How about the day after tomorrow?¡± Ethan responded almost instantly.


    Brenna said yes without hesitation and spent the next afternoon revisiting the same shop where she and Ellie had hunted for baby supplies. She left with bags stuffed full of newborn must-haves and items for Rosanna. Before heading home, she made a stop at a jewelry store to pick out a tiny gold bangle and a ne for the baby.


    By Tuesday morning, Brenna and Ethan were on their way to Kenny¡¯s ce. Kenny, newly minted as a dad, was taking his month-long paternity leave from the airline.


    He weed them at the door, the grin on his face impossible to miss. ¡°You guys made it! Come in!¡±


    Ethan¡¯s present to him, a downtown t within walking distance of everything important, had turned out to be the perfect family home. With schools and clinics close by, Kenny and Rosanna had fallen in love with the ce.


    .<fn2c96> Chapters first released on </fn2c96>


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 Chapter 1375

    ?Chapter 1375:


    The apartment was also spacious, with exquisite decor.


    No sooner had Brenna walked inside than the sound of a newborn¡¯s cries filled the air.


    ¡°Where¡¯s the baby?¡± Brenna asked from the living room, polite enough to wait for an invite before going into the bedroom.


    Together, she and Ethan ced the stack of presents they had brought on the living room floor, holding on only to the bag she carried.


    A wide grin spread across Kenny¡¯s face. ¡°The baby is in the bedroom. Come with me, and I¡¯ll show you.¡±


    Rosanna, who¡¯d been listening from the bedroom, perked up when she heard Brenna¡¯s voice. She¡¯d been worried Elsa might show up uninvited, so Brenna¡¯s arrival was a relief.


    ¡°In here!¡± she called, her tone warm and inviting.


    Turning to Ethan, Brenna grinned. ¡°I¡¯m going to meet the star of the day,¡± she said, and made her way toward the bedroom.


    Since he was a man, Ethan decided it wasn¡¯t right for him to step into Rosanna¡¯s bedroom.


    Even so, his excitement to meet Kenny¡¯s baby was hard to hide. ¡°Kenny, bring your child out here so I can finally get a look,¡± he said.<fn5a6f> ??? ????? ???????s ??? ?????s??? ?? FindN0vel</fn5a6f>


    The present he had prepared was meant for the baby, and he hoped to give it to the little one with his own hands.


    ¡°I¡¯ll ask the nanny to bring the baby over,¡± Kenny replied, already moving.


    Stepping into the bedroom, Brenna let her eyesnd on a plump baby cradled in a crib, the nanny feeding her.


    ¡°What a gorgeous baby!¡± Brenna said,pletely enchanted.


    ???? ???????? ??????¡¯???? ?????????????? ???????? ?????????¦Í??????£®??????


    A secondter, she asked, ¡°Is this little beauty a boy or a girl?¡± She felt a bit foolish for not being able to tell whether the baby was a boy or a girl.


    ¡°She¡¯s a girl.¡± Rosanna smiled, pride glowing on her face.


    Brenna slipped a thick envelope from her purse and set it gently on the edge of the crib. ¡°This is a present for you, sweetheart,¡± she said, giving the little one a wink.


    Rosanna realized that there was a thick pile of cash inside the envelope. One nce told her it had to be well over a hundred thousand.


    ¡°Brenna, this is too much,¡± Rosanna said, looking a bit overwhelmed by the generosity.


    With a shrug, Brenna replied, ¡°It¡¯s just a little something for her. Don¡¯t even think about turning it down.¡±


    Brenna then retrieved and opened two small boxes, revealing a glimmer of gold inside. She gently set the bangle and ne beside the crib, her gaze softening with affection.


    Rosanna patted the spot beside her, her voice soft. ¡°Thank you, really. Come sit here. We haven¡¯t had a real chat in ages.¡±


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 Chapter 1376

    ?Chapter 1376:


    Just then, Kenny entered the room, spotting the mound of gifts. He couldn¡¯t help but grin, recognizing how generous Brenna and Ethan were.


    Turning to the nanny, Kenny said, ¡°Carol, when the baby¡¯s done eating, bring her out. My brother¡¯s dying to meet her.¡±<fnef6b> Newest update provided by Find~Novel</fnef6b>


    Carol Bates, the nanny, nodded. ¡°Of course.¡±


    A short whileter, Carol emerged cradling the baby, who¡¯d drifted into a peaceful sleep, oblivious to themotion around her.


    Ethan, nervous about dropping the baby, didn¡¯t try to hold her. He quietly tucked a card into her nket instead. ¡°This is just a little something for her expenses,¡± he said softly. ¡°Use it for whatever she needs, and if it ever runs out, don¡¯t hesitate to reach out to me.¡±


    The gesture made Kenny pause. ¡°You already gifted us this ce. That¡¯s more than enough. You don¡¯t need to give us more money.¡±


    There was no guessing required; Kenny knew the card probably held more money than he¡¯d ever see from flying nes his whole life.


    ¡°Just take it,¡± Ethan replied, waving off Kenny¡¯s protests. ¡°That¡¯s set up for my niece¡¯s needs only. It¡¯s not much, but it¡¯s all yours. The ounts are in your name, and the passwords are all sixes.¡±


    When Kenny finally looked at the ount bnceter, his breath caught and his jaw fell open. It showed a hundred million dors.


    With a smile, Ethan gently tapped his niece¡¯s nose. ¡°She¡¯s perfect. You¡¯re lucky, Kenny.¡±


    At that moment, the front door creaked open, and Elsa walked in, her eyes locking onto the baby at once. She wasted no time walking over.


    Elsa hadn¡¯t stopped calling Kenny, but he had tried to keep her visits to a minimum to avoid unnecessary drama during Rosanna¡¯s fragile recovery after giving birth.


    ?????????????????? ???????? ???? ???????? g???????¦Í??????????????


    ¡°Mom, I¡¯ve already told you,¡± Kenny said firmly, ¡°we¡¯ve hired both a nanny and a housekeeper, so there¡¯s no need for you toe and help.¡±


    Elsa gave her son a sharp nce before reaching into her bag and pulling out some cash. From the thickness of it, there had to be around ten thousand dors.


    ¡°Why shouldn¡¯t I be allowed to visit my granddaughter?¡± she said as she slid the money into the baby¡¯s nket, a small smile finally softening her expression. ¡°Call me Grandma, little one!¡±


    Kenny just shook his head, feeling resigned. ¡°Mom, she can¡¯t even hold her head up yet, let alone call you Grandma.¡±


    Worried about Elsa causing trouble here, Ethan jumped in to lighten the mood. ¡°How have you been, Mom? Let¡¯s go out and grab something to eatter.¡±


    Elsa fixed Ethan with a frosty re, her words clipped. ¡°What do you mean? I just arrived, and you¡¯re already asking me to leave?¡±


    Her expression melted the moment she turned to her granddaughter. Scooping the baby from the nanny¡¯s arms, she held her close, voice softening as she muttered, ¡°All my life, I dreamed of having a little girl. Instead, I got stuck with two rowdy sons. By the time I thought about trying again, well, let¡¯s just say the universe had other ns¡­¡±


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 Chapter 1377

    ?Chapter 1377:


    She then gave Ethan and Kenny a sidelong look.


    A silent exchange of nces passed between Kenny and Ethan. They were both a bit concerned.


    It seemed Elsa really liked her granddaughter.


    What if she grew so fond of her that she decided she wanted to stay here?


    For Kenny, that thought was almost enough to break him out in hives. Elsa and Rosanna together under one roof would be a recipe for disaster.


    With a desperate nce at his brother, Kenny asked for Ethan¡¯s help.<fn1a5d> Updates are released by FindN0vel</fn1a5d>


    Ethan gave a subtle nod, understanding him.


    Still cradling the baby in her arms, Elsa settled onto the sofa and stared at her granddaughter with growing affection.


    Bncing the baby in one arm, she reached into her bag with the other and pulled out another bundle of cash, yfully waving it in front of the little one. ¡°This is all yours, sweetheart. Whatever you need, Grandma will take care of it.¡± The baby was still asleep, oblivious to her words, but Elsa kept talking, her eyes full of tenderness.


    Love for her granddaughter was written all over Elsa¡¯s face.


    From the bedroom, Rosanna and Brenna could hear Elsa¡¯s voice.


    Rosanna¡¯s mouth tightened, but she bit back anyints. She had no interest in another face-off with her mother-inw.


    Brenna, sensing the tension, squeezed Rosanna¡¯s hand. ¡°Let me go see what¡¯s happening. You stay here.¡±


    She offered Rosanna a reassuring smile before slipping out to the living room. ¡°Hello, Elsa,¡± Brenna greeted, keeping her tone light.


    Usually, Elsa would have fired back with something biting, but today she just nodded. She didn¡¯t want to sh with Brenna or Rosanna anymore. It never did her any good; she¡¯d nevere out on top in those battles.


    g???????¦Í??????.??0??, ????????  novels


    After a pause, she pulled another bundle of cash from her purse, handing it to Brenna. ¡°Here, give this to Rosanna for me. I¡¯ll stay out here. No point dragging my germs into the bedroom.¡±


    A wave of relief ran through Brenna. It was evident now that Elsa wanted to patch things up.


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll hand it to her,¡± she said.


    Still focused on her granddaughter, Elsa didn¡¯t bother to lift her head. ¡°Just remind her to look after herself. Once she returns to work, I¡¯ll take care of my granddaughter.¡±


    An uneasy feeling crept into Brenna¡¯s chest when she heard that. The idea of Elsa ying nanny might not sit well with Rosanna. Still, that was a matter forter.


    Brenna passed along Elsa¡¯s message to Rosanna, who, to her surprise, didn¡¯t seem nearly as resistant as she had anticipated.


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 Chapter 1378

    ?Chapter 1378:


    ¡°She can stay out here as long as she wants. I¡¯m not in the mood to see her face, but honestly, I¡¯d rather trust her with the baby than any stranger,¡± Rosanna admitted, her voice soft. ¡°She might not like me, but she clearly adores the baby. That¡¯s good enough for me.¡±


    A decision settled in Rosanna¡¯s mind: she would treat Elsa better from now on.


    Brenna replied, ¡°She really loves the baby. She prepared a lot of money for her. And this one¡¯s just for you¡ªsomething to help with recovery.¡±


    Eyes widening, Rosanna nced at the thick stack of cash, certainly not a small sum.


    Elsa stuck around for lunch, making herselffortable at the table. Throughout the meal, she kept sneaking nces at Brenna, as if weighing whether to speak up.


    Brenna picked up on it. ¡°Something on your mind, Elsa?¡± she asked, sounding casual.


    With a little sigh, Elsa finally spoke. ¡°My birthday¡¯s next Thursday. You and Ethan shoulde by. The house gets too quiet on my own. What kind of food do you like? I¡¯ll cook you something special.¡±


    The olive branch Elsa was offering wasn¡¯t lost on Brenna.<fn12b7> ?? ??? ???? ?? ???? ???? ???????s, ????s? ??s?? find?novel</fn12b7>


    A warm smile crossed Brenna¡¯s face. ¡°I¡¯m not picky.¡± She nced at Ethan, nudging him to chime in.


    Ethan caught her signal right away. ¡°Mom, Brenna¡¯s got simple tastes. But don¡¯t bother cooking; let¡¯s just go out to eat. I¡¯ll book a spot for all of us.¡±


    Something softened in Elsa¡¯s expression, her gaze lingering approvingly on Brenna.


    ¡°Fine by me,¡± Elsa agreed. ¡°You young people always know the trendiest ces anyway. And don¡¯t forget to bring my granddaughter along.¡±


    Stay connected g¦Á?¦Ç¦Òv????s


    No sooner had she finished eating than the sound of baby giggles sent Elsa hurrying back to the nursery.


    Kenny leaned in, asking Ethan, ¡°So, you and Mom nned this visit together?¡±


    Ethan shook his head. ¡°Nope. She just called me out of the bluest night, asking when I¡¯de here. And I answered her.¡±


    Kenny chuckled, a knowing look in his eyes. ¡°You think Mom¡¯s temper will ever change?¡±


    Ethan couldn¡¯t help but chuckle. ¡°I highly doubt that¡¯ll ever happen.¡±


    Kenny said, ¡°Yeah, I don¡¯t see it, either.¡±


    The two of them lingered at the nursery doorway, quietly observing Elsa. It was obvious she genuinely enjoyed being around the baby.


    Soon, Brenna joined them, catching sight of Elsa¡¯s gentle expression as she watched the little one. ¡°Hasn¡¯t Elsa been acting differently these days?¡± she asked. ¡°Maybe there¡¯s a real chance she¡¯ll change. People surprise us sometimes.¡±


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 Chapter 1379

    ?Chapter 1379:


    But Ethan and Kenny weren¡¯t convinced. They both shook their heads, and Ethan told Brenna, ¡°Trust me, after nearly three decades as her sons, we know her too well. Change isn¡¯t really her thing.¡±


    ¡°You never know.¡± Brenna shrugged, refusing to give up hope. ¡°I¡¯d give it maybe a ten percent chance she has changed. Miracles can happen.¡±


    Ethan and Kenny exchanged nces and had to admit that Brenna might be right.


    Byte afternoon, Brenna and Ethan were ready to leave. Elsa hesitated, reluctant to let go of the baby, but finally handed the child back and left with Ethan.


    Ethan drove Elsa home.


    Silence filled most of the car ride, but as they neared her ce, Elsa finally spoke to Brenna. ¡°That outfit you picked out for me is fantastic. I¡¯ve been wearing it nonstop. Next time youe by, could you bring a couple more from the same designer? The clothes they designed are sofortable and stylish.¡±


    Brenna recognized the olive branch in Elsa¡¯s request. With Elsa¡¯s pride, even a smallpliment was a big step, so Brenna made sure to give her an easy out. ¡°Of course, that¡¯s no problem at all. Just so you know, though, my friend who designs them is pregnant and not taking on much worktely. If you want more, you might have to wait a bit.¡±


    Elsa frowned, thinking Brenna was using an excuse to refuse her.


    To avoid any misunderstanding, Brenna pulled out her phone and showed Elsa a photo of Ellie, the designer, heavily pregnant.


    ¡°See? She¡¯s almost eight months along now. Her husband, my colleague, insists she takes it easy. But if you need the clothes urgently, I can always ask if she¡¯s up for a small rush order.¡±


    After seeing the photo, Elsa was finally convinced. ¡°There¡¯s no need to trouble her. I wouldn¡¯t ask a pregnant woman to work. I¡¯m fine with waiting.¡±


    g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s?c¨®m is your escape


    Brenna let out a quiet sigh of relief. ¡°I actually know a few other designers. If you want, I can order some outfits from them for you in the meantime.¡±


    Elsa nodded. ¡°That sounds good.¡±


    With that settled, Ethan nced at them through the rearview mirror and noticed they were having a pleasant conversation. He suddenly believed that Elsa was really changing.


    ¡°Mom, do you still want to teach at Shirie University? If you¡¯re interested, I can call the principal and make the arrangements,¡± he said.


    Elsa¡¯s face lit up. ¡°Absolutely! I¡¯m tired of all those dance groups with the retirees. I¡¯d rather go back to teaching and actually do something worthwhile.¡±


    After dropping Brenna off at her ce, Ethan headed to the office, as he had a dinner meeting to attend. Hector hade to Vand for a while and wanted to catch up, but Ethan had been avoiding him recently.<fna41f> Latest content published on Find1Novel</fna41f>


    He figured now was as good a time as any to meet him. Gracie had resigned and started working for the Chapman Group, and Hector seemed to be making things difficult for her. Ethan suspected Hector had real feelings for Gracie, even if he didn¡¯t realize them yet.


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1380

    Chapter 1380:


    When Brenna got home, she noticed the house was quiet. Giselle and the household staff were still out, busy preparing Ernst¡¯s new ce.


    She decided to check on the new house, too.


    Ernst¡¯s ce, located in the same neighborhood, had been purchased years back as his future home.<fn9ead> The source of th?s content is f¦É?dn¦Ïvel</fn9ead>


    ¡°Mom, are you finished over here?¡± Brenna called out as she walked inside Ernst¡¯s new home. The new ce was smaller than the Harper family¡¯s residence, and the yard wasn¡¯t asrge, but it felt just right for a couple starting their life together.


    Giselle was busy giving instructions, making sure the staff cleaned every corner and arranged the decorations properly.


    ¡°We¡¯re almost done. How was your day, Brenna? Did everything go well?¡± Giselle said.


    ¡°Everything went fine. My soon-to-be mother-inw came by, wearing the outfit I picked out for her. She even asked for a few more,¡± Brenna replied, smiling as she gave Giselle a quick rundown of her day.


    Giselle pursed her lips for a moment, lost in thought. ¡°If it were me meeting my daughter-inw and grandchild, I¡¯d go out of my way to wear something she gave me. But she wore the outfit you gave her; that just shows how much she doesn¡¯t like Rosanna.¡±


    Brenna agreed, nodding. ¡°That¡¯s true. I didn¡¯t consider that. Do you think Rosanna might think Elsa doesn¡¯t appreciate her presents just because they¡¯re less expensive than mine and dislike me for it?¡±


    With a gentle shake of her head, Giselle dismissed the idea. ¡°I doubt it. Rosanna¡¯s not the type to hold a grudge over something like that.¡±


    She gave Brenna a knowing look. ¡°You¡¯re great at business, but when ites to family politics, you could use a little help. Pay more attention when you visit Kenny and Rosanna next time, okay?¡±


    Explore more now on g?ln¦Ò¦Í??ls


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Mom. I¡¯ll keep my eyes open. I get the feeling Elsa is really trying to get along with me. What do you think?¡± Brenna¡¯s uncertainty was obvious.


    Giselle offered a reassuring nod. ¡°She is making an effort, but Elsa can be tricky. Just think about how she behaved at Rosanna¡¯s house. I don¡¯t think she¡¯s really looking to patch things up. Honestly, I think she¡¯s trying to drive a wedge between you and Rosanna.¡±


    Brenna blinked, surprised. ¡°You really think so?¡±


    ¡°Trust me. Once you and Ethan are married, just keep things polite between you two and don¡¯t get too involved with Elsa¡¯s drama,¡± Giselle replied with conviction.


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll take your advice, Mom.¡± Linking arms with Giselle, Brenna followed her as they walked through Ernst¡¯s freshly decorated home.


    .


    Once she made it home that evening, Brenna called Ellie on video to discuss Elsa¡¯s request for a few custom outfits.


    .


    .


    .<hr>


    Message from Noah: Today we¡¯re gonna have a few new novels, hope you like them. God loves you and Noah wishes you all the best. (?? ? ??)?


    .

 Chapter 1381

    ?Chapter 1381:


    Comprehension dawned, and Linda stammered, ¡°N, you¡­ you looked into the ounts?¡± Why would she do that?


    A cold chuckle escaped N¡¯s lips. ¡°Do I need a justification to review my own family¡¯s finances? I¡¯m asking the questions here, Linda. Now answer me!¡±


    The color drained from Linda¡¯s face as she gave a weak shake of her head. ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant¡­¡±


    ¡°Whatever.¡± N¡¯s hand cut through the air, firm and final. She was in no mood for deflections¡ªher body might have been frail, but her tolerance for pretense had vanished entirely. Her gaze locked onto Linda, steely and unrelenting. ¡°Answer the question I asked. Now.¡±


    Statement: manipted content. Official source at  gal no vels.


    Linda faltered, her teeth catching her lower lip. Did she truly need to say it aloud? Everyone in the room already knew¡ªshe¡¯d overseen the Flynn family¡¯s finances for years. She just never imagined those dusty ledgers woulde back to haunt her.


    N leaned forward slightly, her voice cooling to a bitter edge. ¡°What¡¯s the hesitation? It¡¯s a simple yes or no. Why is that so difficult?¡±


    Before Linda could respond, a knock sounded at the door. The ss doors offered a clear view, and when she nced up, Elissa spotted Eric on the other side.


    ¡°Perfect timing,¡± N murmured, unfazed. Her gaze shifted back to Linda, calm but resolute. ¡°Eric¡¯s here. Now you can both speak face-to-face. I want the truth about this ount¡ªand I want it today.¡±


    The ss door slid open with a soft hiss, and Eric stepped onto the terrace, his footsteps measured. As he passed Linda, a flicker of confusion crossed his face, but he said nothing. He stopped in front of N, gave a polite bow, and smiled warmly.


    ¡°Grandma, how are you feeling?¡± He gestured toward his left arm, which rested in a sling. ¡°I got injured recently¡ªthat¡¯s why I haven¡¯t visited. You¡¯re not mad at me, are you?¡±


    In truth, he had stayed away deliberately. Hadley hade by a few days earlier, but Eric had worried that his presence might upset N further, so he kept his distance.


    But now, seeing him speak to her just as he always had, without tension or guilt, stirred something in N¡¯s chest. The warmth in his tone chipped away at her lingering doubts. She softened.


    This isn¡¯t the official edition. Check it at  galnov el s.


    ¡°I¡¯m much better now. And with your hand like that, you should be resting¡ªI couldn¡¯t possibly me you.¡±


    Then, upon turning her attention once more to Linda, her voice regained its edge. ¡°I asked both of you here because I have a question¡ªone I expect a clear answer to.¡±


    Linda¡¯s shoulders tensed. Her face had grown noticeably pale, her expression stiff with dread.


    ¡°What is it?¡± Eric asked, brows knitting with concern. ¡°Grandma, go ahead.¡±<fn9a3a> Follow current nov?ls on find{n}ovel</fn9a3a>


    ¡°Very well.¡± N wasposed, her every movement deliberate. She reached for a stack of printed documents on the small table beside her andid them neatly before them.


    Her voice was even¡ªalmost too calm. ¡°Take a look.¡±


    Eric leaned forward, curiosity sharpening. He picked up the papers and began flipping through them. Red-ink circles stood out starkly across the pages.


    ¡°Pay close attention to the areas marked in red,¡± N said quietly.


    Linda nced once and immediately understood. Her body went still. With a quiet exhale, she turned her face away, eyes shutting tight.


    Eric took a bit longer. He studied the pages, his expression shifting gradually from confusion to realization. These weren¡¯tplex business statements¡ªthey were the Flynn household¡¯s financial records, far simpler than the corporate ledgers he was used to.


    ¡°Grandma¡­¡± Eric finally looked up, lips parted slightly. ¡°These records didn¡¯t add up. They were tampered with.¡±


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1382

    ?Chapter 1382:


    ¡°Exactly.¡±


    N¡¯s eyes didn¡¯t leave his face, watching for even the faintest flicker of guilt or knowledge. But there was none. She nodded slowly. ¡°So you really didn¡¯t know.¡±


    Eric shook his head, frowning. ¡°No. I¡¯ve never looked into the family finances.¡±


    Because N had entrusted that responsibility to Linda.


    N let out a quiet scoff and turned toward Linda. ¡°So you kept this from him, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    Chapter uploaded by unauthorized distributors. Read the original at  ga lnov el s.


    ¡°I¡­¡± Linda stammered, her voice catching like a stone in her throat. No words came. The silence said everything.


    ¡°I thought as much.¡± N offered a thin, bitter smile, then shifted her gaze back to Eric. Her voice sliced through the air, sharp and sudden. ¡°If you knew and let her have her way with it, then yes¡ªyou¡¯d be a true bastard. After all, Hadley was¡­¡±


    ¡°Still your wife back then!¡±


    Eric¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Grandma, what do you mean? Does this have anything to do with Hadley?¡±


    N gave him a pointed look, then picked up the papers again, flipping to a specific line.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you figure it out yet?¡± she asked, tapping a number circled in red. ¡°That¡¯s Hadley¡¯s overseas ount. Look closer.¡±


    As N¡¯s eyes slid toward Linda, so did Eric¡¯s. And just like that, the pieces snapped into ce.


    That ount¡ªHadley¡¯s¡ªhad been empty for years. A chill settled over him.


    He turned fully to Linda now, staring at her like she was someone he didn¡¯t recognize.


    ¡°What¡­ what is this? Did you do this?¡± His voice was low, stunned.


    ¡°Eric, listen¡­¡± Linda¡¯s voice faltered as she shook her head, lips trembling. Her skin had taken on an ashen pallor, her eyes wide and pleading.


    Eric let out a cold, hollowugh. His chest felt tight, his entire body locked in tension.


    To avoid confusion: the full and legitimate version is at  galn ov els.


    The air seemed to freeze around him as his expression darkened. ¡°I¡¯m standing right here. Grandma¡¯s here. So speak. Where¡¯s the money, Linda? Why is Hadley¡¯s ountpletely empty?¡±


    N hadn¡¯t just yed the part of a doting grandmother when she promised to take Hadley in¡ªshe meant it.


    She gave Hadley generous monthly support¡ªhalf a million in household allowance and another half in personal spending money. A million dors. Every month. That was twelve million a year.


    Hadley had been in the for four years. Forty-eight million dors in total. And that didn¡¯t include birthday gifts, holiday gifts, and other extra support.


    Eric¡¯s mouth drew into a hard, grim line. His breathing quickened as fury slowly climbed through him.


    He stared down at Linda¡¯s trembling frame, his heart twisting painfully. ¡°So¡­ all that time Hadley was in the, she received nothing?¡± His voice was little more than a whisper now. The weight of it hit him like a blow. The world tilted.


    He had no idea.


    The unspoken question rang loud in the air¡ªHow had Hadley survived those four long years in the with no financial support? And not just survived¡­ she¡¯d brought a child into the world. She had raised Joy under those conditions.


    Eric¡¯s breath hitched. He opened his eyes and fixed Linda with a burning re. ¡°Why would you do this?¡± he asked, his voice trembling with rage. ¡°That money wasn¡¯t yours! It belonged to the Flynn family!¡±


    .<fn11a0> The source of th?s content is F?ndNovel</fn11a0>


    .


    .

 Chapter 1383

    ?Chapter 1383:


    Hadley¡¯s grandmother and N had been best friends, and when Hadley¡¯s grandmother passed away unexpectedly, N made the decision to take Hadley in and treat her as her own granddaughter. N, alone in the Flynn family, had the right to decide how Hadley was cared for and how much she received.


    ¡°You had no right,¡± Eric hissed, his voice hoarse with fury. He looked at Linda¡¯s pale, drawn face, his expression carved from betrayal. ¡°She was only twenty! That money was for her to live! What were you thinking, cutting her off like that?¡±


    His fists clenched at his sides, his jaw rigid with rage. His eyes¡ªusually calm¡ªnow burned with indignation.


    This text was modified without permission. The real story lives at  g a l nove ls.


    ¡°Linda¡­¡± N¡¯s voice cut in, low and disbelieving.


    She sighed deeply. ¡°Why won¡¯t you say something? Was it greed? Are you in need? Nheless, you shouldn¡¯t have done this! That wasn¡¯t your money! It was Hadley¡¯s.¡±


    Still, Linda said nothing. She nced from N to Eric¡ªand then, unexpectedly, began tough. A strange, bitter sound.


    ¡°Linda?¡± N¡¯s voice grew gentle again, attempting to reach her.


    ¡°So what if I took the money?¡± Linda snapped, herughter vanishing as quickly as it came. Her voice was cold now¡ªclipped, unapologetic. ¡°Yes. The ount¡¯s empty. I did it. I took every cent meant for her. So what?¡±


    N and Eric locked eyes, both stunned, their faces darkening. Linda lifted her chin slightly, the tension draining from her shoulders as if she¡¯d finally released a secret she¡¯d been dying to scream.


    Linda knew there was no escaping it now. The proof sat right in front of her¡ªclear, damning, and impossible to deny.


    ¡°It was me.¡±


    She exhaled slowly, as if a burden had finally slipped from her shoulders. Her lips even curled into a strange smile, almost as if she felt¡­ relief.


    She shrugged. ¡°So what?¡±


    ¡°Linda!¡± N froze. She hadn¡¯t expected this. Linda looked anything but regretful.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you feel sorry for Hadley?¡±


    If this sounds odd, it¡¯s because it¡¯s not the original. Find the real version at  gal no vels.<fn565b> Th? link to the orig?n of this information r?sts ?n Find_Novel(.</fn565b>


    ¡°Sorry for her? Why?¡± Linda gave a cold smile and shook her head. There was no guilt in her expression¡ªonly bitter satisfaction. ¡°And why shouldn¡¯t I have done it?¡±


    N¡¯s face hardened. ¡°What are you saying?¡±


    ¡°Exactly what you heard!¡± Linda¡¯s voice snapped. Her face twisted, and her eyes brimmed with fury.


    ¡°If I hadn¡¯t brought it up, would all of you have just forgotten why she was sent to the in the first ce?¡± She hissed, her voice sharp with rage. ¡°She was heartless. She killed my baby. And what did you all do? You covered for her. You shipped her off to another country to continue enjoying her life and called it punishment¡ªwhat a joke!¡±


    Linda let out a scornfulugh. ¡°She just changed addresses. The Flynn family still poured money into her. Still supported her. That punishment meant nothing. Why?¡±


    Her eyes red red as she shouted from deep in her chest.


    ¡°Why was she let off so easily? That was my child. She pushed me down the stairs. I was bleeding everywhere. And just like that, my baby was gone. And you expect me to just forgive her? No. Never!¡± She shook her head, her voice trembling. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t let this go. It was too easy for her. I wanted to cut off her funds, make her suffer for real.


    Really suffer.¡±


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1384

    ?Chapter 1384:<fna189> This update is avable on f?ndnovel</fna189>


    Then sheughed¡ªhigh, sharp, and bitter.


    ¡°And you know what¡¯s funny? All those years, Hadley never got a single cent. But did she ever say anything about it?¡±


    Back then, Hadley barely had any contact with the Flynn family. Eric didn¡¯t like her¡ªhe was distant and cold¡ªbut even so, they stayed loosely in touch. The contact was rare, and she never brought it up with him.


    Eric frowned, trying to understand why Hadley had kept quiet.


    The imposter fell into the trap. The authentic story is at  galn ov els.


    ¡°That¡¯s because¡­¡± Lindaughed, wild and unhinged. Her eyes gleamed with something dark. ¡°She felt guilty. She killed my child. She¡¯s a murderer. Everything happening to her now? That¡¯s karma.¡±


    ¡°Oh dear¡­¡± N clutched her chest, shaking her head. ¡°Hadley was at fault for that incident, yes. But Linda¡ªlosing your child didn¡¯t change your standing in the Flynn family. And Hadley had a child too. She was pregnant with Joy back then. You cut off her money¡ªhow was she supposed to survive? Oh dear¡­¡±


    Her words echoed exactly what Eric had been thinking.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that just right?¡±


    Linda¡¯s sneer twisted into something cruel. ¡°She killed my child. Karma alwayses back.¡±


    Her voice grew louder. Her emotions spiraled.


    ¡°She and her daughter should suffer. Let them live hard lives. Don¡¯t you dare me me! None of this is my fault!¡± She raised her chin. Her voice cracked. ¡°They¡¯re suffering, but my baby is gone. Gone!¡±


    ¡°Oh dear¡­¡±


    N¡¯s breathing grew shallow. Her chest tightened.


    ¡°Grandma!¡± Eric stepped forward, holding her up. ¡°Where¡¯s your medicine?¡±


    ¡°In the drawer¡­¡± N tapped his hand. ¡°Push me inside.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    Eric wheeled her back into the room, leaving Linda behind.


    ¡°Grandma.¡±


    Stop reading! This version is fake. The real one is at  g alno vels.


    He found the medicine, poured water into a ss, and helped her take it.


    ¡°Feeling better? I¡¯ll call the doctor¡ª¡±


    ¡°No need.¡± N waved a hand. ¡°It¡¯s just a bit of shortness of breath. The medicine will do, and I will be fine. A doctor would say the same thing¡ªI¡¯ve lived with this long enough to know.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Eric pulled out a chair. ¡°I¡¯ll sit with you. You just rest and catch your breath.¡±


    N nodded and nced toward the terrace, sighing.


    ¡°Hadley made a mistake. But I don¡¯t believe she meant to. She was too young, and she and Linda never got along. Arguments were bound to happen¡­ Still, she¡¯s not malicious. Her grandmother and I were close. I watched that girl grow up.¡±


    ¡°Grandma, you don¡¯t have to exin.¡± Eric gave a quiet nod. ¡°I understand.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± N looked surprised. He hadn¡¯t been like this before. But then she understood. ¡°You¡¯ve changed. You used to put your brother and Linda in front of everything¡­¡±


    She had once believed it was just brotherly affection. Now she saw it for what it was¡ªEric repaying a debt.


    She took his hand and gave it a gentle pat. Then she asked, ¡°Ernest told me¡­ that you and Hadley are living together now?¡±


    .


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    .

 Chapter 1385

    ?Chapter 1385:


    ¡°Yes.¡± Eric nodded.


    N sighed again and again. ¡°You must take care of Hadley. She¡¯s endured so much¡­¡±


    Her voice trembled. Her eyes reddened.


    ¡°It¡¯s not just been a week¡ªor a few months. It¡¯s been four long years.¡± She paused, then suddenly gripped his hand. ¡°Do you remember? When Hadley first came back, I kept saying she was different?¡±


    Eric hadn¡¯t thought much of it at the time. But now, it was impossible to ignore.


    This copy is part of the n: only the original is at  galn ovel s.


    It wasn¡¯t just N. Marshall and Barrie had said the same. Even he had felt it. Hadley had changed so much. Quiet. Guarded.


    ¡°She hasn¡¯t changed because she realized her mistake like we thought.¡±


    N¡¯s eyes filled with tears. ¡°She thought we abandoned her¡­¡± She clutched Eric¡¯s arm, her voice shaking. ¡°Would Hadley think it was my idea to cut off her allowance? Huh?¡±


    ¡°Grandma, no¡­¡± Eric shook his head, frowning deeply. ¡°You¡¯ve always loved her. She knows that.¡±


    ¡°Does she?¡± N looked doubtful. ¡°Hadley¡¯s so stubborn. She never got a cent for years¡ªand still said nothing?¡± She buried her face in her hands and wept.


    ¡°Grandma.¡± Eric ced a hand on her shoulder. ¡°You¡¯re too upset. You need to rest. Come on, I¡¯ll help you to your bed.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± N nodded. Her body had grown too tired to resist. She let him help her lie down.


    ¡°Eric.¡± She held his hand. After a pause, she spoke quietly. ¡°This is no small matter¡­ Call Ernest. He¡¯s the head of the family now. Let him handle them.¡±


    ¡°I understand. Rest well, Grandma.¡±


    Eric turned and stepped out, gently closing the door behind him. The moment it shut, it felt like a mountain copsed on his back¡ªcrushing, brutal, and breathless. And underneath the weight, something sharper pressed in. Pain. Constant. Piercing. Without end.


    Eric stood by the doorway, phone in hand, swiping open the dial pad. ¡°Ernest. It¡¯s me¡­ I¡¯m at Grandma¡¯s¡­ Listen, I need to tell you something¡­ Alright, I¡¯ll wait.¡±


    If you got here, it means the thief copied again. Find the real one at  gal no vel s.


    He ended the call and slipped the phone into his pocket.


    The terrace door stood wide open when Linda wheeled herself in. She moved straight toward him. Her eyes drifted toward the bedroom. ¡°How¡¯s N?¡±


    Eric¡¯s expression tightened. He said nothing at first. Then he answered, ¡°She took her medicine. She¡¯s doing better.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good.¡± Linda gave a short nod and started pushing the wheelchair toward the room. ¡°I¡¯ll check on her¡ª¡±<fn7cf5> Official source is FindN0vel</fn7cf5>


    ¡°No need.¡± Eric stepped forward and stopped her. His hand rested lightly on the handle of her wheelchair, but the look in his eyes was firm. ¡°She needs to rest. And I don¡¯t think now is a good time for you to go in.¡±


    ¡°Not a good time?¡± Linda froze. Her gaze lifted to meet his with a cold smirk. ¡°Are you saying I¡¯d harm N?¡± Her voice dipped. The faint smile vanished.


    ¡°So now that I cut off Hadley¡¯s allowance, you¡¯ve made your judgment? Is that it? You think I¡¯m some heartless monster who¡¯d hurt the woman who raised me?¡±


    Eric shook his head. ¡°I never said that.¡±


    ¡°Ha!¡± Linda let out a bitterugh, her eyes pinned on his face. ¡°But that¡¯s what you¡¯re thinking. Isn¡¯t it? Eric, you also believe I was wrong?¡±


    ¡°Weren¡¯t you?¡± His voice rose, stunned by her defiance.


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1386

    ?Chapter 1386:


    ¡°Then tell me¡ªwhat did I say that wasn¡¯t true?¡± Linda looked just as shocked. ¡°Look at you. What kind of tone is that?¡±


    She shook her head. Her voice cracked with disappointment. ¡°So because your feelings for her have changed, you¡¯ve forgotten everything else? She wronged me first.¡±


    ¡°Regarding that incident¡­¡± Eric tilted his chin slightly. ¡°You have every right to hate Hadley! But that money¡ªit belongs to the Flynn family. It¡¯s not yours. No matter how much you hate her, you had no right to cut off the funds Grandma left her. That money was hers.¡±


    Copy detected. The official work is found at  ga l nove l s.


    His voice grew colder as he continued, ¡°I¡¯m her husband. I¡¯m Joy¡¯s father. And I let them suffer in the¡ªalone, without a cent¡ªfor four years. That¡¯s not something I can just erase.¡±


    Linda said nothing. Her face darkened with every word.


    She arched a brow. ¡°Well, I already did it. So what now? You going to call the police on me?¡±


    She let out a dryugh. ¡°Need me to remind you? This is a family matter¡ªit¡¯s not a crime. And besides¡­¡±


    Her back straightened. Her hands clenched the arms of the wheelchair.


    ¡°Don¡¯t forget why you¡¯re still alive.¡±


    Her lips trembled. Her voice broke with anger. ¡°Eric, let me spell it out. If it weren¡¯t for me, you¡¯d still be in that hellhole. Dead. I was the one who carried you out. I nearly died saving you.¡± Her eyes burned red. She wasn¡¯t done.


    She mmed her fists against her legs, again and again. Her voice trembled, barely holding itself together. ¡°You know why I¡¯m stuck in this chair? Because of you! And now you¡¯re turning your back on me¡ªfor her? Where¡¯s your conscience?¡±


    ¡°Enough!¡± Eric¡¯s voice cut through the air like a de. His brows pulled tight. His eyes turned cold.<fnbc2e> ???? ????s? ???????s ?? findnovel</fnbc2e>


    ¡°I haven¡¯t forgotten,¡± he muttered, low and bitter. ¡°I remember every bit of it.¡±


    Then his voice rose¡ªsteady, unwavering.


    ¡°For years, I lived for you. Took care of everything. Worried about your happiness. Your future. I tried everything I could to make things easy for you. And this¡­ this is who you became?¡± He looked at her, eyes hardening.


    This was tampered with. The correct text is published at  gal n ov els.


    ¡°The girl who once pulled me out of that nightmare¡­ where did she go?¡± Eric shook his head slowly, as if the truth refused to settle in. ¡°You¡¯ve be a stranger to me. I don¡¯t even recognize you anymore.¡±


    Linda froze. A chill spread through her limbs. ¡°You¡­ you actually called me a stranger?¡±


    ¡°Have I not repaid you?¡± Eric didn¡¯t respond to her question. The words that had weighed on him for years finally poured out. ¡°For over ten years, I¡¯ve treated you and Ernest the same. I lived for the both of you. And that¡¯s no exaggeration. I know I owe you my life.¡±


    He tilted his head slightly and took a slow breath.


    His gaze held a deep ache¡ªdisappointment etched in every line of his face. ¡°What else do you want from me? Haven¡¯t I done enough? I gave you everything I could. I considered you in every decision.¡±


    He let out a dryugh. ¡°You already have what most people can only dream of¡ªstatus, wealth,fort.¡±


    Linda fired back. ¡°Do you think money alone is enough? I¡¯m a person. Money doesn¡¯t make me happy. I need care. I need love.¡±


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1387

    ?Chapter 1387:


    ¡°Haven¡¯t we given you that as well?¡± Eric¡¯s brow furrowed. ¡°Haven¡¯t Ernest and I given you all our attention? We¡¯ve treated you like family¡ªlike a sister. Even if you had real siblings, they couldn¡¯t have done more for you than we did.¡±


    ¡°Ha, haha¡­¡± Linda let out a bitterugh, her eyes rimmed with red. ¡°That was before. Now? One of you is chasing after Elissa, the other¡¯s chasing Hadley. Neither of you want me anymore.¡±


    ¡°Linda.¡± Eric¡¯s voice hardened. He frowned, his expression caught between confusion and exasperation. ¡°How old are you? Are you still a child? Wake up! You¡¯re an adult!¡±


    This chapter doesn¡¯t exist in the real version. Read it fully at  galno v el s.


    Linda froze. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°I mean¡­¡± Eric let out a long breath. There was a trace of weariness in his voice. ¡°People grow up. Even the closest siblings eventually live separate lives. Even if you were my real sister, that wouldn¡¯t mean we¡¯d live together forever.¡±


    And she wasn¡¯t even family by blood.


    He and Ernest weren¡¯t that close anymore either. They were both caught up in their own lives.


    Linda stared at him, her face nk.


    Then she let out a bitterugh. ¡°So that¡¯s your excuse for abandoning me? How noble!¡±


    Wasn¡¯t it the truth?


    Eric didn¡¯t understand how she couldn¡¯t see that.


    And somehow, he knew¡ªLinda genuinely believed she hadn¡¯t done anything wrong.


    ¡°Have you lost your mind? Or are you just being stubborn?¡±


    ¡°Eric!¡± she shouted the name, her voice sharp. ¡°Enough of this nonsense! In the end, it¡¯s all because your heart¡¯s with Hadley now!¡± As she spoke, she pressed the button on her wheelchair. ¡°There¡¯s nothing left to say. I¡¯m leaving¡ª¡±


    ¡°Wait.¡± Eric stepped forward. ¡°Don¡¯t go yet.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± She lifted her chin, confused. ¡°You want me to stay and argue with you some more? I don¡¯t have the time.¡±


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    ¡°Ernest is on his way.¡± Eric nced at his watch. ¡°I called him earlier. He¡¯ll be here soon. Grandma¡¯s not feeling well. Since this is a Flynn family matter, she wants him to handle it.¡±


    Linda stiffened in her wheelchair. Her hands froze on the armrests. The color drainedpletely from her face.<fn8> Th?s chapter is updated by F¦ÉndNovel</fn8>


    Linda¡¯s hands clenched the armrests of the wheelchair with a death grip, her eyes locked onto Eric with a stormy intensity. Her voice came out scratchy, almost raw. ¡°You brought Ernest here? What did you say to him?¡±


    Eric stiffened at her tone, a flicker of confusion shing across his face. What else could he possibly have said except the truth?


    Eric recoiled just a bit, a flicker of uncertainty shing across his face. ¡°I only told him the truth¡­¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t y games. What truth? Spell it out. What exactly did you tell him?¡± Linda pressed on, her voice cutting like a de. ¡°I said, answer me!¡±


    Eric looked at her, seeing the panic creeping into her expression. His jaw tightened as he drew in a slow breath. She seemed terrified.


    He swallowed hard, and his lips parted just enough to speak. ¡°I told him everything. About your miscarriage. About how Hadley ended up in the because of it. And how you kept all the money that was supposed to be hers.¡±


    Years of Hadley¡¯s pain had been boiled down into one brutal confession.


    .


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 Chapter 1388

    ?Chapter 1388:


    Linda¡¯s whole frame seemed to copse. Her shoulders fell, and she slumped back against the chair.


    His words had cut her deeper than he realized. The spark in her eyes vanished, reced by a dull, vacant stare.


    He had told Ernest. He didn¡¯t leave anything out.


    What could she possibly do to fix this?


    If you notice inconsistencies, it¡¯s not a mistake , it¡¯s bait. The original is at  galn ov els co m.


    She wasn¡¯t just cornered¡ªshe was finished.


    However, a bitter realization hit her like a p. Everything was gone. Her schemes. Her power. Even her pride. She was nothing more than a hollow shell now.<fnee3c> This text is hosted at Find_Novel(.</fnee3c>


    Since the moment Hadley came back, the two Flynn brothers¡ªwho once revolved around only her¡ªhad started to drift away.


    Hadley¡ªshe really was a curse, wasn¡¯t she?


    What more could they take from Linda now? Everything that mattered had already slipped through her fingers.


    That thought gave her just enough strength to lift her chin and square her shoulders. So what if she lost it all? Even if they dragged her through the dirt, even if every shred of pride was stripped away¡ªshe¡¯d survive it.


    She had pulled the Flynn brothers from the edge once. That truth couldn¡¯t be rewritten.


    For that alone, they could never escape the debt they owed her.


    A knock echoed through the room. Atst, Ernest showed up.


    Ernest stepped inside, calm andposed as ever.


    ¡°Ernest,¡± said Eric, rising quickly from the sofa.


    Linda, still seated in her wheelchair, didn¡¯t look at him. Her gaze stayed fixed ahead, as if he didn¡¯t even exist.


    Ernest gave a short nod and motioned for Eric to sit. ¡°Sit down and let¡¯s talk.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    Linda kept her expression cool, but her hands betrayed her. Her palms were damp, and her heart pounded so wildly it nearly drowned out the room¡¯s silence.


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    ¡°How¡¯s Grandma holding up?¡± Ernest asked, his voice even as he stepped further into the room.


    ¡°She¡¯s doing alright,¡± said Eric with a nod. ¡°She took her medicine and fell asleep after.¡±


    ¡°d to hear it.¡± Ernest exhaled quietly, the tension in his shoulders easing just a little. His eyes shifted from Eric to Linda. ¡°I think I¡¯ve got a solid grasp of the situation.¡±


    ¡°Ernest¡­¡± Eric¡¯s voice caught for a moment, his jaw tightening. ¡°Grandma asked you to take charge of this. What do you think we should do?¡±


    ¡°Eric, wait.¡± Ernest lifted a hand to stop him mid-sentence. Then he shifted his gaze toward Linda. ¡°Linda, I¡¯d like a private word with Eric. Would you mind stepping out to the balcony for a few minutes?¡±


    What did he just say?


    The request hit her like a p.


    Wasn¡¯t she the one they were supposed to confront? They came here toy everything bare, to pass judgment. And now they wanted her to leave the room?


    Something about it didn¡¯t sit right.


    Why was Ernest soposed?


    .


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 Chapter 1389

    ?Chapter 1389:


    ¡°Linda?¡± he called again, his tone gentle but unmistakably firm. ¡°Would you mind waiting on the balcony for a moment?¡±


    Ernest hadn¡¯t raised his voice. He didn¡¯t need to. There was a quiet authority in the way he spoke¡ªpolite, but resolute.


    ¡°Sure,¡± Linda replied, forcing a smile that didn¡¯t quite reach her eyes. Without protest, she turned her wheelchair and headed toward the balcony, giving them the space they asked for.


    Ernest watched her go, his eyes fixed on her until she reached the balcony and the sliding door shut behind her. Only then did he rx enough to speak.


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    The room was silent. The soundproofing kept everything inside these walls. Now, he could speak openly with his brother.


    ¡°Ernest,¡± Eric nced around, confused. He wasn¡¯t the only one thrown off by the situation. ¡°What is it you¡¯re not saying? Why send her out?¡± If this were about Linda, shouldn¡¯t she be here to face it?<fn5ca5> ??? ????? ???????s ??? ?????s??? ?? find?novel</fn5ca5>


    ¡°Eric.¡± Ernest met his eyes, struggling to pull the right words together. If things hadn¡¯t gone this far, he might have chosen to carry the truth alone until the end of the world.


    ¡°Ernest?¡± Eric leaned forward, noticing the hesitation. ¡°What¡¯s going on? You¡¯re holding back¡ªwhy?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­¡± Ernest finally exhaled, his voice dropping to almost a whisper. ¡°It all started five years ago¡­¡±


    The two brothers sat across from one another, the air between them heavy. Even with Linda out on the balcony, Ernest kept his voice low, deliberately quiet¡ªhe wasn¡¯t taking any chances she might overhear.


    ¡°And that¡¯s everything. That¡¯s the truth.¡±


    After hearing it all, Eric sat inplete shock. He didn¡¯t blink, didn¡¯t move¡ªlike he¡¯d turned to stone. Words escaped him entirely.


    ¡°Eric.¡± Ernest¡¯s voice wavered, heavy with guilt. ¡°This is on me. I failed you¡­ failed Hadley¡­ and failed Linda too.¡±


    His actions ended up hurting more people than he could ever imagine.


    ¡°Eric.¡± Ernest¡¯s brows drew together, his face clouded with frustration and regret. ¡°I¡¯m not someone who gets everything right. All I¡¯ve ever been able to do is try my best.¡±


    Don¡¯t get confused by this copy. The real version is at  gal n ove ls.


    Ernest sighed and continued, his voice rough around the edges, ¡°Hadley¡¯s suffered more than she ever should¡¯ve. I¡¯ll return the money to her. I¡¯ll make things right¡­¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Eric finally responded, shaking his head slowly. His face was pale, his expression stiff, but his eyes were filled with quiet regret and a deep, aching sympathy for Hadley.


    He said, ¡°Ernest, Hadley doesn¡¯t need your money. She¡¯s notcking anything now.¡± And he was right.


    Ernest knew that, too. Hadley wasn¡¯t someone who needed financial help anymore. She was with Eric now, and wealth was never her concern.


    Still, the apology pressed at Ernest¡¯s chest like a weight he couldn¡¯t shake. His voice came out strained. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. Just tell me if I can do anything for either of you.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to keep apologizing, Ernest,¡± Eric replied, forcing a faint smile. ¡°The one who really failed Hadley was me¡­ not you. And anything I do for you, it¡¯s only right. It¡¯s what I owe you.¡±


    When Ernest brought him home, Eric made a promise¡ªa quiet, unshakable vow to protect Ernest forever, no matter what.


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 Chapter 1390

    ?Chapter 1390:


    ¡°And that oath still stands,¡± Eric said, his voice low but firm. ¡°It¡¯s not going anywhere.¡±


    Without Ernest, he would¡¯ve remained a shattered mess¡ªjust another forgotten runaway buried in the slums, trying to outrun a family that had never wanted him.


    Ernest¡¯s steady hand, his unwavering support, became the anchor in Eric¡¯s life. His guidance had given Eric the strength to rise again, to return with purpose, and to take his rightful ce at the Scott Group.


    Ernest wasn¡¯t just his brother¡ªhe had been a father figure, a protector, the one who pulled him from the wreckage and showed him how to live again.


    If this makes no sense, congrattions: you found the fake. The real one is at  g al nove ls.


    It was a debt so deep, Eric knew he¡¯d never be able to repay it.


    Their eyes met in a moment of quiet, unspoken understanding. Ernest¡¯s gaze shimmered with emotion as he reached out and ced a steady hand on Eric¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°Thank you, Eric. Hadley is like a sister to me. From now on, I¡¯ll do everything I can to make things right for her.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Eric nodded stiffly, his voice clipped as he stood. His eyes were tinged with red, but he kept hisposure. ¡°I¡¯ll take my leave now.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    ¡°Wait¡ª¡±


    The balcony door flung open with a sharp tter. Linda burst in, having seen Eric rise from his seat through the ss. Her face was twisted with panic.


    Eric didn¡¯t stop. He didn¡¯t even nce her way.


    ¡°Eric!¡± she called out, her voice shaky, emotions unraveling with every word. ¡°I told you to wait! Stop right there! What did you two decide? How are you going to deal with me?¡±


    ¡°Starting now, you¡¯ll have to face this by yourself.¡± Eric didn¡¯t look back, just threw the words over his shoulder and kept walking.


    ¡°Eric!¡± she screamed after him, her voice cracking with desperation. ¡°What kind of attitude is that? You hate me, don¡¯t you? But how dare you? What gives you the right to hate me? After everything¡ªdid you even care about Hadley at all back then?¡±


    The words struck Eric like a de, sharp and unforgiving, cutting deep into the guilt he already carried.


    This chapter was sabotaged to mark the thief. Find the true story at  gal n ov els.


    ¡°You¡¯re right.¡± Eric swallowed hard, still staring at the floor. ¡°I¡¯m nothing more than a lowlife. A bastard through and through. I¡¯ll never forgive myself. Nor will I ever forgive you.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t forgive.¡± Linda recoiled, echoing the words as if testing their weight. Her gaze crystallized into something hard and unfamiliar. ¡°What¡¯s that supposed to mean?¡±


    Eric released a cold, humorlessugh, drew a deep breath, and exhaled slowly. ¡°It means precisely what it sounds like.¡± Then he turned, heading for the door.


    ¡°Eric! Stop!¡±


    Watching his retreating form, Linda sensed the determination in his posture.


    A chilling realization washed over her¡ªafter today, if their paths crossed again¡­ they would be nothing but strangers.


    Panic surged through Linda as she called out, ¡°Eric! Stop right there! I order you to stop immediately! Do you hear me? Have you forgotten your promise to take care of me for a lifetime?¡±


    Eric froze in his tracks, momentarily stunned. Yes, he had indeed made that promise.<fna7f8> Latest content published on Find?Novel</fna7f8>


    His shoulders tensed as he replied, ¡°I¡¯m going to break that promise.¡± Once Ernest entered the conversation, the situation demanded delicate handling.


    .


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 Chapter 1391

    ?Chapter 1391:


    ¡°Miss Harper, we have visitors at the house,¡± he said, his tone cryptic and tinged with unease.


    ¡°Visitors? Who are they?¡±


    Typically, the staff would mention guests casually, but Darrell¡¯s demeanor hinted at something unusual, making Brenna suspect that the guests¡¯ identities were not ordinary.


    She thought for a moment. ¡°Is it my uncle¡¯s family?¡±


    Darrell shook his head. ¡°No, you¡¯ll see for yourself.¡±<fn87f9> This update is avable on find?novel</fn87f9>


    His guarded attitude set off rms for both Brenna and Ethan.


    ¡°Darrell, who are they? Can¡¯t you just tell us?¡± Brenna pressed.


    Darrell sighed heavily. ¡°It is best you see for yourself, Miss Harper. Those two showed up this morning. Coincidentally, your father went to Plomond for a business trip and won¡¯t return until tomorrow. Your mother is also away on business and will be back tomorrow evening. I shouldn¡¯t have let them in, but they were making a scene outside, and I worried the neighbors would notice. So, I allowed them inside. I have informed your father of this, but I haven¡¯t told your mother about it. He might return early. It would be best if you asked them to leave. They are really annoying.¡±


    Brenna was still puzzled after his words.


    ¡°Darrell, what kind of people have you so rattled?¡± she muttered, heading inside the house with Ethan.


    In the grand, elegantly appointed dining room, two strangers sat at the table.


    The table was set with avish spread¡ªeight dishes and a soup.


    With her parents away, Ernst living elsewhere, and Dalton tied up at the film studio, Brenna was the only family member home. Yet the meal had been served before her arrival.


    Brenna realized that these two were really capable, making the servants serve the meal before she returned.


    L?t?st ?h??pt?rs ¦Én g??lnov§Ö???.??????


    One of them was a woman in her fifties, with stylishly permed hair and a chic outfit, exuding an air of dignity as she relished the meal.


    Next to her sat a young woman, about twenty-five, in light makeup and a beige knit dress, radiating an air of elegance.


    The younger woman bubbled with excitement. ¡°Mom, why didn¡¯t wee here sooner? I love this ce. Will this be our home from now on?¡±


    ¡°The Harper family hasn¡¯t fallen yet. Since when do outsiders get to call the shots here?¡± Brenna sensed the weight of the situation. She strode over, pulled out a chair, and sat, fixing the mother and daughter with a cold stare, wary of their motives.


    Ethan joined her, resting a calming hand on hers.


    The older woman set down her fork with an air of superiority, acting as if she owned the ce.


    ¡°Who do you think you are? Don¡¯t you have any manners? Is this how Shepard taught you to behave?¡± she scolded, her tone condescending.


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 Chapter 1392

    ?Chapter 1392:


    ¡°This is my home. Who are you to say something like that to me? Leave my chair.¡± Everything about these women screamed that they were no ordinary visitors. Otherwise, they wouldn¡¯t be dining here with such brazen entitlement. Darrell stood behind her, ring at the mother and daughter.


    The woman smirked, turning to Darrell. ¡°Darrell, didn¡¯t you tell her who I am?¡±


    Darrell scoffed. ¡°Your identity doesn¡¯t matter. What matters is that your past dealings were settled. You have no business here.¡±


    The woman¡¯s temper red, and she mmed the table, standing up. ¡°Shepard can settle things with a hundred million, fine, but he can¡¯t ignore his own daughter! I¡¯m here to have my daughter recognized as part of this family.¡± She jabbed a finger at Brenna. ¡°A child of questionable origins, missing for twenty years, gets to be weed back. Why not my daughter, Shepard¡¯s own blood? If she can inherit shares, properties, and wealth, why can¡¯t my daughter have the same?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s mind reeled, but pieces started falling into ce. This woman had a history with her father, and the young woman was her half sister?


    It felt unthinkable.


    Her father was always upright and principled. Him having an illegitimate daughter seemed impossible.


    ¡°I¡¯m my father¡¯s daughter, confirmed by a paternity test,¡± Brenna said firmly. ¡°What about your daughter? Can you prove she is his?¡±


    Brenna was worried. Her mother loved her father dearly, their bond unshakable.


    Since her return, she had never seen them fight.


    If Giselle learned of this, how would she cope? Would it break her?


    The woman huffed with arrogance, saying, ¡°I was in this house before you were even born. What right do you have to challenge me? Call your parents. I¡¯ll speak to them directly.¡±


    Darrell, furious and worried that this could fracture Shepard and Giselle¡¯s marriage, snapped, ¡°Keira Evans! You¡¯re crossing a line. If you want money, talk to Mr. Harper. Why stir up trouble here? What exactly do you want?¡±


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    Keira remained unfazed by Darrell¡¯s heated outburst. She had no fear of such confrontations¡ªotherwise, she wouldn¡¯t have shown up unannounced.


    Years ago, young and penniless, she had been fearless. Now, with a daughter by her side, she was even bolder.


    Her careful nning had led her to choose a moment when both Shepard and Giselle were away.


    ¡°Stay out of it, and call Shepard and Giselle back now!¡± she snapped at Darrell. ¡°You¡¯re just a security guard. You don¡¯t get to make decisions for them.¡±


    Outside, a car horn red. Julia, who had been nervously observing the unfolding drama, nced out the window and rushed outside.


    She had called Giselle that morning to inform her of this.


    Giselle had hurried back after her six o¡¯clock lecture, hastily passing the next day¡¯s lesson ns to her assistant.


    Her mind churned during the drive home, haunted by memories of that night twenty-six years ago. Back then, she had been an academic advisor at Shirie University. After dining with a friend one evening, she had returned home to find the servants acting oddly. Then she had discovered Shepard and Keira, a servant, naked in the bedroom.


    .


    .


    .<fnb6a1> Updates are released by fin?novel</fnb6a1>

 Chapter 1393

    ?Chapter 1393:


    Shepard reeked of liquor, while Keira, trembling and tearful, imed he had mistaken her for Giselle in his drunken state, insisting she had been too weak to resist.


    Furious, Giselle sshed water on Shepard.


    He was ovee with guilt and immediately offered Keira ten million inpensation.


    Keira, strikingly beautiful, sobbed that she didn¡¯t want money; she valued her honor and integrity more than anything else.


    She imed that she was a decent woman, engaged to be married the next month, but now her reputation was ruined by such a scandalous act.


    How could she face her boyfriend?


    Giselle, livid at her husband¡¯s actions, wanted to divorce him the next day. But Shepard¡¯s heartfelt remorse, kneeling and begging for forgiveness, changed her mind.


    She didn¡¯t buy the excuse of a drunken mistake; she suspected a calcted affair.


    Still, in the end, she forgave him.


    Keira threatened to call the police, and Shepard kept raising thepensation until it reached a staggering one hundred million dors. Keira left the Harper family with that fortune and vanished.<fnb295> Readplete version only at find¡¤novel</fnb295>


    Giselle gradually moved past the ordeal.


    But now, twenty-six yearster, Keira was back with her daughter. What did this mean? Was the girl really Shepard¡¯s child?


    Giselle¡¯s thoughts raced as she nced repeatedly at the photos Julia had sent. The mother and daughter in the images irritated her. The young woman bore a striking resemnce to Shepard, more so than any of Giselle¡¯s three children.


    Giselle nearly crashed several times on the drive.


    After a sharp stop, she stepped out of the car, her face taut with urgency.


    ????? ????????????????????????????????: ??????????¦Í??????.????


    ¡°Mrs. Harper, that woman says her daughter is Mr. Harper¡¯s child,¡± Julia blurted as soon as she approached.


    ¡°Has Sheparde back yet?¡± Giselle asked.


    Her greatest fear was that Shepard might have returned first, possibly negotiating a deal to provide substantial support for the young woman, or even allowing her to stay.


    She ascended the steps, her expression icy.


    Brenna, standing at the door, had never seen her mother so stern and cold before.


    Worry gripped her. ¡°Mom, you have to stay calm!¡±


    Giselle exhaled sharply, clutching her daughter¡¯s hand. ¡°Calm? I can¡¯t be calm!¡±


    Brenna noticed that her mother¡¯s hands were trembling.


    ¡°Mom,¡± Brenna said, her heart aching for her mother.


    Ethan watched the mother and daughter closely.


    Keira, slightly startled by Giselle¡¯s arrival, noted how youthful Giselle still looked after all these years.


    .


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 Chapter 1394

    ?Chapter 1394:


    Their eyes met, brimming with mutual resentment, locked in a silent sh. ¡°Keira, you took a hundred million dors and swore never to bother us again,¡± Giselle said sharply.


    She sized up Keira, noting her modest blue knit dress, likely costing a few thousand dors, and inexpensive shoes, perhaps about eight thousand. Her handbag, slightly worn, might have been worth about thirty thousand but showed years of use.


    None of her attire was from recent collections, leading Giselle to suspect Keira had burned through her fortune and returned to demand more.


    And her daughter¡­ who could say if she wasn¡¯t someone Keira had paid to y the part?


    Seeing Keira in person dispelled the worst scenarios Giselle had imagined on the drive, and she began to regain herposure.


    Keira was unruffled by Giselle¡¯s anger or the gathering security guards. ncing at her watch, she calcted that Shepard would return soon.


    She said, ¡°That hundred million was for me. Did you ever consider my daughter¡¯s right to inheritance? I hear your long-lost daughter inherited a hefty share of the Harper fortune. Why should my daughter, also Shepard¡¯s child, get nothing?¡±


    Even after calming down, Giselle knew this time she couldn¡¯t simply let Shepard off the hook. If he actually decided to keep the mother and daughter in his life, she would file for divorce without a second thought.


    Checking her phone for the umpteenth time, Keira wondered why Shepard hadn¡¯t returned yet. He was supposed to be back by now, since he was only three hundred kilometers away on business.


    More than eight hours had slipped by while she waited in growing frustration. What could possibly be keeping him?


    Anxiety wed at her. Without Shepard¡¯s return, there was no way she could demand the money she needed. And how could she guarantee her daughter would be recognized as part of the Harper family?


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    In Keira¡¯s eyes, Giselle was never someone to underestimate. She didn¡¯t believe she¡¯d ever manage to push Giselle into letting her daughter stay here.


    She watched the street outside, and her heart leaped when another car finally pulled up.


    Atst, someone hade.


    Excitement surged through her at the thought that Shepard might finally be home.


    With renewed confidence, she shot Giselle a triumphant look. ¡°My daughter is a Harper, too, no matter what anyone says. The family can try to ignore her, but they can¡¯t just cut her off from what¡¯s rightfully hers. She deserves a share of the inheritance.¡±


    Giselle met her with a cold smirk. ¡°Sure, an illegitimate child has rights, but Shepard is very much alive. Isn¡¯t it a bit early to talk about inheritance?¡±<fn2b6e> ???? ????s? ???????s ?? find?novel</fn2b6e>


    Realizing she had gone too far, Keira rushed to exin herself, saying, ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant. What I¡¯m saying is, my daughter is Shepard¡¯s child. I¡¯ve raised her on my own all these years, so he owes us child support. My daughter deserves some of the Harper fortune.¡±


    .


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 Chapter 1395

    ?Chapter 1395:


    With icy stares, Ethan and Brenna studied the woman, quickly catching on to her scheme for money, which made handling her demands far simpler.


    Keira¡¯s anticipation crashed when she realized the man stepping out of the car wasn¡¯t Shepard¡ªit was a much younger man.


    The moment Ernst stepped inside, Keira¡¯s daring demands reached his ears. Relief settled over him, knowing he hadn¡¯t allowed his father to deal with this. Had his fathere instead, this shameless woman would have caused a scene and tried to squeeze money out of him.


    Truthfully, Shepard hade back from his trip earlier. But instead of heading straight home, he¡¯d gone to Ernst so they could work out a n together. They had decided it was better for Ernst to handle the confrontation.


    Keira¡¯s disappointment twisted into anger. ¡°Who are you? Where is Shepard? Tell him toe here!¡± Her voice rose as she red at Ernst. ¡°What, he thinks hiding from me will solve anything? I¡¯ve brought my daughter here; let¡¯s see how long he can keep avoiding us!¡±


    Keeping his cool, Ernst asked, ¡°Tell me, what is it you want?¡±


    Keira had little choice but to face Ernst directly. ¡°I want money, and I want my daughter treated like a real Harper, just like your sister. She should have shares in the family business, a slice of the wealth, and even a shot at bing the CEO of thepany. Everything your sister has, my daughter deserves as well.¡±


    Gesturing for everyone to sit, Ernst turned to Keira. ¡°So this girl you¡¯ve brought¡ªare you really sure she¡¯s my father¡¯s daughter? For all we know, you could have brought any child here and tried to pass her off as his. Do you really think the Harper family will fall for that?¡±


    In his mind, Ernst couldn¡¯t help but question why Keira had waited so long to show up if this girl truly belonged to his father. Surely she would have brought her here much earlier if her ims were real. For that reason, Ernst doubted her story and suspected the girl wasn¡¯t rted to his father.


    He turned toward Giselle and offered reassurance. ¡°Mom, please try to stay calm. I¡¯ll handle this. There¡¯s no need to worry.¡±


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    Giselle gave a silent nod. Past experiences had left her inclined to believe the girl might be Shepard¡¯s. So she hadn¡¯t been calm earlier. Now, sheposed herself.


    ¡°Alright. You take care of it,¡± she replied.<fn6cbb> Th?s chapter is updated by F?ndNovel</fn6cbb>


    Across the room, Keira¡¯s daughter sat silently, a picture ofposure. Her mother had already warned her to keep quiet and remain still. Without saying a word, she let her appearance speak for itself. Nobody could ignore just how much she looked like Shepard. A DNA test almost seemed unnecessary.


    Keira had anticipated this issue. ¡°I have proof.¡±


    She retrieved a document from her bag and tossed it onto the table with a flourish. ¡°This is a DNA test report. See for yourself.¡±


    Ernst took the paper and scanned it, sharing it with Giselle. The results imed that Sample One was the biological father of Sample Two.


    It stated that hair collected from Shepard matched with the girl, whose name was Sandra Harper.


    How daring of this girl to use the surname Harper.


    Ernst couldn¡¯t shake a sense of unease. Not only did this girl have features that mirrored his father¡¯s, but she also carried the same surname. Was it possible she really was a Harper?


    .


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 Chapter 1396

    ?Chapter 1396:


    Still, he dismissed the test with a scoff, saying, ¡°Anyone can buy fake results for the right price.¡± He tossed the document back on the table.


    Ethan and Brenna grabbed the document for a closer look, noting the official seal from the Shirie forensic center, which hinted at its possible authenticity. Curious, Brenna asked, ¡°Where did you get my father¡¯s hair?¡±


    A sly smile crossed Keira¡¯s lips. ¡°That¡¯s not something you need to know. I have my own methods. Don¡¯t use me of faking the test, either. I¡¯m willing to do another DNA test if you insist. Bring Shepard here so we can discuss this matter properly.¡±


    Ethan stepped in with a suggestion. ¡°It¡¯ste. Here¡¯s what I propose, Ms. Evans: let¡¯s have you stay at a hotel for now. We¡¯ll figure out the next steps, and tomorrow, we can all meet again to talk things through.¡±


    ¡°Absolutely not! I¡¯m not checking into some hotel! I¡¯m staying here!¡± Keira dered, her voice sharp with defiance as she jabbed a finger toward the gathered crowd, her face alight with anger. ¡°Don¡¯t think I¡¯m blind to your schemes. You¡¯re trying to push me out of here and then get rid of me for good. That¡¯s just the kind of thing someone with your wealth would pull. But I¡¯m not budging. I¡¯m staying right here until this mess is sorted, and only then will I leave.¡±


    Brenna regarded her with a cold stare. ¡°That¡¯s not an option, I¡¯m afraid. What do you think this ce is? You think you can just waltz in and out as you please?¡±


    A chill of apprehension ran through Keira. Though Brenna spoke sparingly, there was an undeniable authority in her presence that overshadowed everyone else in the room. It unsettled Keira, stirring a flicker of fear.


    Clutching Sandra¡¯s hand tightly, Keira sensed their shared dread that force might be used against them. They were no match for the burly security guards looming nearby.<fn73d0> The source of th?s content is Find¡ïNovel</fn73d0>


    Sandra¡¯s eyes, filled with fear, darted across the Harper family members. She pulled her mother protectively behind her and confronted Brenna, saying, ¡°You¡¯re Dad¡¯s daughter, aren¡¯t you? Well, I¡¯m his daughter, too! What gives you the right to throw me out? You can¡¯t force me to leave!¡±


    Brenna stepped closer, unruffled by Sandra¡¯s boldness. She then instructed, ¡°Darrell, kick them out. Notify the security team in thismunity that they¡¯re not allowed back without our approval.¡±


    Every story starts at galn   ovels ;


    Keira saw Brenna as the most formidable member of the Harper family, more audacious than the rest, but she refused to be cowed. ¡°If you dare kick us out, I swear, within an hour, all of Shirie will hear about your family¡¯s scandal!¡±


    Brenna met her threat with icy calm. ¡°If you dare spread nonsense online, you won¡¯t make it through the night.¡±


    She had grown up unafraid of intimidation, and Keira¡¯s words didn¡¯t scare her at all.


    Keira was rendered at a loss for words.


    Darrell quickly called over a few guards who forcibly removed Keira and her daughter. Keira resisted, hurling insults until Darrell silenced her with a gag.


    After the two were kicked out, Giselle sank onto the couch, casting a relieved nce at Brenna. ¡°Brenna, if you hadn¡¯t gotten rid of them, I wouldn¡¯t have known what to do.¡±


    ¡°How to make it through the night¡­ Having those two vile women in my home makes my skin crawl.¡±


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 Chapter 1397

    ?Chapter 1397:


    Ernst said to the security guards stationed at the entrance, ¡°Keep watch on them. If they cause trouble, you know how to handle it.¡±


    The guards responded promptly, ¡°Understood!¡±


    Brenna settled next to her mother. ¡°Mom, it¡¯s not a big deal. Don¡¯t worry. My brother and I will take care of everything.¡±


    Giselle, still shaken, couldn¡¯t stop wondering how Shepard nned to address the situation. ¡°Where is your father? Don¡¯t tell me he¡¯s still clueless about this,¡± she said.


    Ernst took a seat, his eyes steady on Giselle. ¡°Mom, he¡¯s at my ce. He found out about the matter this morning and came back right away. We discussed it, and he asked me to take care of it. Besides, he is certain that girl isn¡¯t his. Back then, he made sure Keira took emergency contraception to prevent any possibility of a child.¡±


    Giselle scoffed, her disapproval clear. ¡°Dodging responsibility, hiding the moment trouble shows up¡ªdoes he think that¡¯s enough? He made this mess years ago, left me to deal with the fallout, and now expects you to clean it up. Utterly shameless.¡±


    She vented her frustrations to her children, then pulled out her phone to call Shepard.


    She hadn¡¯t had a chance to confront him earlier. Her mind raced with questions about how he intended to handle it and whether he would acknowledge the girl as his daughter.


    If the girl was indeed Shepard¡¯s daughter, she would divorce him. She would tell Shepard that.


    Shepard was at Ernst¡¯s house, casually eating pasta prepared by Lilith. To Lilith, the situation seemed urgent, but Shepard appeared unperturbed, calmly taking his wife¡¯s call while eating with rxed confidence. To him, it was a minor issue.


    ¡°Hey, honey, how¡¯s everything going?¡±


    Giselle¡¯s furious voice erupted through the phone, berating him sharply. Shepard listened patiently to her tirade before responding, ¡°If she¡¯s my daughter, I¡¯ll ept her, but I highly doubt it. Honey, trust me. After all these years together, have I ever let you down?¡±


    ???????????? ???? ????????: ??????????????????©q??????<fn6ea9> ???s ??????? ?s ?????? ?? Find¡ïNovel</fn6ea9>


    Giselle snapped, ¡°Don¡¯t act like I¡¯m unaware of what you¡¯ve been up to on your so-called business trips. I¡¯m not an idiot, Shepard. You can mess around, but don¡¯t bring trouble into this house!¡±


    Her words were harsh; she didn¡¯t mind that Ernst and Brenna were listening nearby.


    Ernst and Brenna exchanged surprised nces. Ernst believed his mother was airing long-held grudges, while Brenna felt a pang of disappointment in their father¡¯s actions.


    Ethan slipped into the dining room to eat, certain this was a conversation he had no ce in overhearing.


    At the Empire Hotel, a Harper family vehicle was parked beside Ethan¡¯s car. Neville hurried through the grand entrance.


    The receptionist, recognizing Neville instantly, offered a warm smile. ¡°Mr. ke, you seem in a rush. Is everything alright?¡±


    .


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 Chapter 1398

    ?Chapter 1398:


    Neville gave a curt nod. ¡°Two double suites, please.¡±


    Knowing Neville represented the CEO, the receptionist didn¡¯t hesitate, quickly arranging two suites opposite each other.


    Momentster, Darrell, nked by two imposing security guards, ushered Keira and Sandra into the hotel.


    Keira was unaware of the Empire Hotel¡¯s ownership or its connection to the Harper family. Noticing the receptionists and guards stationed at the entrance, she raised her voice in a desperate plea.


    ¡°They¡¯re detaining us against our will! Someone, please call the authorities! Help us¡ª¡±


    The guards swiftly silenced Keira with a gag and hustled both her and Sandra into the elevator.


    They soon reached the suites, where the guards rummaged through their bags and confiscated their phones.


    Keira, her anger boiling over,shed out. The guards hit her a few times, yet she stood firm. ¡°Go on, try to kill me! I am prepared for anything, so bring it on! In less than an hour, everyone will know we¡¯re being held here, and I¡¯ll see how the Harpers deal with this.¡±


    The guards responded with a sharp p to her face and a brutal kick to her chest. ¡°Keep quiet. The boss wants this handled discreetly. y along if you want to get money. Otherwise, you¡¯ll get nothing.¡±


    Sandra, trembling and overwhelmed by the ordeal, stayed silent,plying with the guards¡¯ demands to avoid further violence. She said to her mother, ¡°Mom, please, don¡¯t say anything else.¡±


    The guards shoved them into the suite and mmed the door shut.<fn5540> ?? ??? ???? ?? ???? ???? ???????s, ????s? ??s?? find¡¤novel</fn5540>


    Sandra, shaken, peered through the peephole and saw the guards murmuring outside.


    Then she saw Darrell pull out his phone and slip into the suite across the hall. ¡°Mom, they¡¯ve got someone watching us. We can¡¯t escape,¡± she whispered, her voiceced with fear.


    See more chapters at g??l no vels.??????


    Keira, wincing from the blows but undeterred, scoffed, ¡°What are you afraid of? I squeezed a hundred million out of the Harpers before, and I can do it again.¡±


    Sandra nced nervously at the door, worried the guards might overhear Keira¡¯s bold ims. If they did, what if they came back to beat them again?


    ¡°Mom, lower your voice. If they hear, they mighte back and hurt us.¡±


    ¡°No need to be afraid. The Harper family wouldn¡¯t dare kill us. Do you think I¡¯m foolish? I already expected this. But we¡¯ll see whoughs in the end.¡±


    Despite her defiant words, Keira¡¯s body bore the marks of the beating¡ªbruises marred her face and torso, making her look pitiful.


    Sandra shook her head in resignation. ¡°Mom, that hundred million could have secured our future, but you gambled it all away.¡±


    Keira poked Sandra¡¯s forehead sharply. ¡°You have no ambition! What¡¯s the problem with gambling? I like it. See, I¡¯m out of cash, and the Harpers will give me money again. I¡¯m lucky to have you¡ªmy golden ticket. Good thing I didn¡¯t take that birth control pill back then, or you wouldn¡¯t be here.¡±


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 Chapter 1399

    ?Chapter 1399:


    Sandra sighed, her eyes falling on her mother¡¯s injuries. Concerned, she approached the door and timidly said to the guard, ¡°Excuse me, my mom¡¯s hurt. Can we get some medicine?¡±


    The guard¡¯s expression was cold. ¡°Wait for a moment.¡± He then went to the opposite room to consult Darrell.


    Keira dismissed her wounds as trivial. She limped to the window, scanning the busy street below, lined with cars. She searched for the paparazzo she had reached out to.


    After searching for a while, she still couldn¡¯t find him. She eximed, ¡°Did he take my money and vanish, afraid of the Harpers?¡±


    Reaching into her underwear, she pulled out a hidden phone, much to Sandra¡¯s shock.


    ¡°Mom! You¡¯ve got another phone? I thought we werepletely at their mercy!¡±


    Keira gave a sly grin. ¡°I¡¯m always one step ahead. I knew the Harpers would treat us this way. Rich people can be ruthless, all of them. If they actually let you stay with them, I would be worried. Once they confirm you¡¯re Shepard¡¯s daughter, they¡¯ll treat you right. If things go well, I might even be Mrs. Harper.¡±<fn9ed0> For original chapters go to FindN0vel</fn9ed0>


    Sandra stared at her mother, dumbfounded. She had thought her mother¡¯s im was nonsense and that the DNA test was fake. But now, Keira¡¯s unshakable confidence made her waver. She was almost convinced that she was indeed a Harper, and the thought sent a thrill through her.


    The call connected, and Keira¡¯s voice cut through the line. ¡°It¡¯s me. A few days ago, I told you to keep an eye on the Harpers and track my movements. Did you get the videos and photos?¡±


    A young man¡¯s voice came through. ¡°Rx, it¡¯s all handled. I¡¯ve got everything ready to go. If this story breaks, I¡¯ll be raking in a fortune.¡±


    ¡°Good. Release it now; post it across every major tform. I¡¯ve already paid you, haven¡¯t I? Secure the trending spots, and don¡¯t skimp on the cost. Do it right, and I¡¯ll give you more money.¡±


    Read exclusive updates g¦Á?¦Ç¦Òv??ls


    Keira ended the call, then quickly snapped a series of photos of her and Sandra¡¯s injuries, sending the images to the paparazzo.


    She powered off her phone and stashed it carefully, ensuring the security outside wouldn¡¯t find it.


    When the door swung open abruptly, both Keira and Sandra froze, their hearts racing, terrified their phone use had been detected.


    Bracing for another burst of violence, they were stunned when the guard handed them a bottle of ointment. ¡°For the swelling and bruises. Apply it.¡± He scanned the room, found nothing suspicious, and then left, shutting the door behind him.


    Sandra crept after him, peering through the peephole to see the guard still stationed outside.


    She watched for a moment, noting the unwavering vignce of the two guards at their posts outside their room.


    Her heart burned with resentment toward the Harpers. She vowed that if they acknowledged her and let her into their family, she¡¯d seize every chance to im their wealth¡ªfor her mother¡¯s sake.


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 Chapter 1400

    ?Chapter 1400:


    Her mother had toiled alone to raise her all these years, and she was determined to repay her.


    Keira tugged Sandra back from the door. ¡°Stop staring. They¡¯ll watch us all night, reporting back to the Harpers. Hmph, as if that¡¯ll stop me. I still got the story out. They think their tactics can outsmart me? No way!¡±


    Sandra looked at her mother with admiration. ¡°Mom, you¡¯re incredible. I was honestly terrified the Harpers might hurt us or even kill us. But you turned the situation around. You¡¯re my hero. Don¡¯t worry. Once I be a member of the¡±


    Harper family, I¡¯ll make sure you get money every month. Gamble as much as you want; I¡¯ll support you financially.¡±


    Keira¡¯s face softened with pride. ¡°I know you¡¯re a good daughter.¡±


    Sandra smiled warmly, picking up the ointment. ¡°Mom, let me put this on for you. It¡¯ll ease the pain.¡±


    Back at the Harper estate, Shepard stood in the bedroom, offering Giselle the expected apology.


    ¡°Honey, please don¡¯t be angry. It¡¯s been years. How could I have known she¡¯d reappear out of nowhere, causing trouble with that grown daughter of hers? I admit I messed up back then.¡±


    Giselle remained unmoved, her face a mask of indifference, refusing to offer forgiveness.


    ¡°What¡¯s done in the past is done,¡± she said coldly. ¡°But what about your constant dinner meetings and social gatherings now? Don¡¯t think I¡¯m clueless about what you did.¡±


    Giselle had endured enough over the years, maintaining a good image with Shepard for the sake of their reputation and their children. She was exhausted from ying the part of the perfect couple with him and could no longer keep up the pretense.


    Shepard replied, ¡°You know those were for business. The Harper Group is massive; how could I avoid them?¡±


    ???€$? ?§ß?t??§ñ? 1¦Ð ?al§Úo¦Í¦Å??.???


    ¡°You say you recognize your mistakes, but is this how you show remorse? Shepard, I¡¯ve put up with you for over twenty years. I¡¯m done. I know exactly what you¡¯re like; you¡¯ll never change. Get ready for a divorce.¡±


    In a fury, Giselle shoved Shepard out of the bedroom and mmed the door, copsing onto the bed, seething.


    Her eyes stayed dry; years of silent tears had left her with none to spare. Brenna, watching from her slightly open door, caught the tense exchange in her parents¡¯ room.


    With a heavy sigh, Shepard trudged upstairs to the bedroom Ernst used to stay in before.


    Only when he was out of sight did Brenna quietly shut her door.


    She grabbed her phone and texted Ernst.


    ¡°Mom and Dad had a fight. Mom kicked Dad out of the room. He¡¯s upstairs.¡± The house felt heavy with unspoken tension, and Brenna couldn¡¯t shake her concern, yearning tofort her mother.<fn046c> Latest content published on find?novel</fn046c>


    She lingered in the small living room, hesitating, then approached Giselle¡¯s door just as Giselle stepped out.


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 Chapter 1401

    ?Chapter 1401:


    Brenna studied Giselle closely. Her eyes weren¡¯t red, nor did she seem heartbroken. She appeared calm, as if untouched by the ordeal.


    ¡°Mom, are you okay?¡± Brenna asked.


    Giselle sat down with her on the couch. ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t I be? Your father¡¯s done plenty of foolish things over the years¡ªI¡¯m used to it. If things get worse, we¡¯ll divorce. I can take care of myself; I¡¯ve saved enough over the years and don¡¯t need to tolerate him.¡±


    Brenna, unsure how to respond, looked at her mother, relief washing over her at her mother¡¯sposure. ¡°Whatever you decide, I¡¯ll support you,¡± she eventually said.


    Giselle squeezed Brenna¡¯s hand. ¡°We¡¯ll take it one step at a time. Maybe your father and I won¡¯t divorce¡ªit depends on his behavior. Even at his age, he¡¯s still chasing other women outside our marriage.¡±


    .


    ¡°Mom, you don¡¯t need to carry all this by yourself. No matter what happens with Dad, I¡¯ll look after you. We can face everything together.¡± Brenna believed Giselle had made too many sacrifices, and she knew she was the reason her mother had done that.


    Giselle still wanted to spend more time with her daughter, who had just returned to the family. She wanted to be there because Brenna still needed her guidance. With a gentle nod, Giselle replied, ¡°I understand. If your father refuses to let them go, I¡¯ll end this marriage. I can¡¯t let myself be humiliated like this.¡±


    Brenna stayed by her mother¡¯s side, offering reassurance for quite some time before finally heading back to her room.


    She stretched out on her bed and started scrolling through her phone. A breaking tabloid headline popped up, jolting her: ¡°The Harper Group CEO¡¯s Secret Mistress and Daughter Attacked, Detained, and Beaten.¡±


    ¡°Who let this slip out?¡± Brenna¡¯s eyes narrowed as she wondered how the news had spread. She immediately opened the post, which described how Keira and Sandra entered the Harper home that morning, were escorted out in the evening, and wereter kept at the Empire Hotel. The article even showed clear photos of their bruises and injuries. Everything wasid out in shocking detail.


    g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s hosts captivating tales<fna557> Follow current nov?ls on find?novel</fna557>


    What stunned her even more was how quickly the post had taken off. In just thirty minutes, it had already racked up over a million views.


    She began reading thements underneath.


    ¡°Looks like the Harper family is trying to get rid of them. Let¡¯s see what happens next. I doubt these two will make it through the night.¡±


    ¡°If I were in their ce, I¡¯d be asking for a lot of money.¡±


    ¡°I wonder how the drama will unfold!¡±


    ¡°Who knows how many mistresses Shepard actually has? Or how many kids he actually has?¡±


    ¡°I saw Shepard checking into hotels with young women more than once.¡±


    ¡°A decade ago, Shepard had an affair with me. He gave me five million and a fancy car to keep it quiet.¡±


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 Chapter 1402

    ?Chapter 1402:


    This particrment came with photos: one of a young woman with Shepard, another of the two of them together in bed, and a third showing her next to a luxury car.


    The replies kept piling up.


    The more Brenna read, the more anxious she became. She could see just how serious this scandal could get.


    Almost all thements were harsh, with people ming the Harpers for abusing their influence or using Shepard of sleeping around. Negativity filled the thread.


    Brenna believed she couldn¡¯t let this spiral out of control. She quickly called Ernst to discuss how to handle the issue.


    But Ernst wasn¡¯t answering his phone. She dialed Ethan right away, but his number wasn¡¯t reachable, either.


    Maybe they were already working to solve the problem.


    After a few minutes, Ernst called her back.


    ¡°Did you see what¡¯s trending?¡± he asked.


    Brenna¡¯s worry showed in her voice. ¡°Yes, I saw it. What should we do?¡±


    Ernst spoke quickly, sounding stressed. ¡°Don¡¯t panic. I¡¯ve already ordered the Harper Group¡¯s PR team to get this trending topic taken down overnight. Ethan¡¯s also on it. The story will cool off soon.¡±


    His tone was filled with worry. ¡°My only concern is that Mom will see what¡¯s happening online, and if she gets upset, things could get even worse for Dad.¡±


    Moving quietly, Brenna slipped out of her room and made her way toward Giselle¡¯s door, trying to catch any sound from inside, but she could only hear silence.


    Uncertain whether Giselle was already asleep or glued to her phone reading the trending topic, she hesitated for a moment.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go check on her.¡± Ending the call, she headed to the kitchen, poured a ss of milk, then walked back upstairs and tapped lightly on Giselle¡¯s door.


    ?????????????? ?????????????? con g???????¦Í?ls.c0m


    The door swung open quickly, revealing Giselle, who looked sleepy. ¡°What is it, Brenna?¡±


    A gentle smile on her face, Brenna handed over the ss of milk. ¡°I thought you might have trouble sleeping, so I brought you some milk.¡±


    Giselle didn¡¯t take it and replied, ¡°Thank you, but I already had some. I was about to go to bed.¡±<fn3620> Find the newest release on Find?Novel</fn3620>


    ¡°Alright then, I¡¯ll let you rest. Good night.¡± With that, Brenna turned away, milk still in hand, and headed back to her room.


    Afterward, she called Ernst again to let him know that Giselle was alright and probably hadn¡¯t seen anything about the trending topic.


    Ernst finally felt relieved.


    After ending the call, he was preparing to leave his ce. ¡°Honey, I¡¯m heading to the office. You should try to get some rest,¡± he said to Lilith as he buttoned up his shirt.


    Lilith, still thinking about the news, couldn¡¯t hide her worry. ¡°Do you want me to check in on your mom and make sure she¡¯s okay?¡±


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 Chapter 1403

    ?Chapter 1403:


    He finished getting dressed in a hurry. ¡°No, that¡¯s alright. Brenna already checked on her, and she¡¯s gone to bed. Why don¡¯t you visit her in the morning for breakfast? I have to handle this situation tonight.¡±


    Without another word, Ernst drove to the office, where he immediately called in the PR team for an emergency meeting.


    Brenna stayed alert, monitoring Giselle¡¯s well-being. Luckily, Giselle fell asleep quickly.


    Roughly an hourter, Brenna checked her phone again and noticed that the trending topic hadpletely vanished. Any rted news had disappeared from the inte as well. Only then did she finally let herself rest.


    Meanwhile, at the Empire Hotel, Keira and Sandra were sleeping soundly. Outside their suite, Darrell was pressing two security guards for answers. ¡°You¡¯re absolutely sure you took both of their phones?¡±


    The guards answered without hesitation, ¡°We checked all their pockets and bags. There¡¯s no other phone on them.¡±


    A tight re settled on Darrell¡¯s face as he said, ¡°The photos of their wounds are already posted online, so they clearly have a phone with them. Get one of the women on staff to go inside and search them properly.¡±


    ¡°This is it!¡± Darrell barked, his voice echoing down the hall. He turned furiously on the two guards. ¡°Look at the news! Those photos didn¡¯t post themselves. They had phones, didn¡¯t they? And you let it happen right under your noses. Do you realize the trouble you¡¯ve dragged the boss into?¡±


    As the scolding rang out, movement at the elevator drew their attention. A crowd stepped out, each person armed with equipment¡ªcameras slung around their necks, camcorders raised, every lens aimed directly at them. The group, young men and women in their twenties and thirties, surged forward with bold intent.


    ¡°Let them go right now!¡±


    ¡°This is uwful detention!¡±<fn2d5a> ??? ????? ???????s ??? ?????s??? ?? find?novel</fn2d5a>


    ¡°We¡¯ve already notified the police; you¡¯ll be hearing from them soon!¡±


    S???? ???????????????? ???? g??????ov?????.con


    Darrell¡¯s face darkened. He cut a murderous re at the guards and hissed, ¡°Hold them back. Don¡¯t let a single one through. I¡¯m calling Mr. Harper now.¡±


    Before the group could close the distance, Darrell slipped into the room across the hall and hurriedly ced a call to Ernst.


    In moments, the reporters descended on the guards like a wave, cameras firing in rapid session, the sharp clicks filling the corridor without pause. Some of the cameras carried the insignia of major social media outlets, while others bore no mark at all. The two guards, however¡ªone ex¨Cmilitary police and the other a former special forces soldier¡ªshowed no sign of being rattled by the scene.


    One of the guards roared, ¡°What do you think you¡¯re doing here? No photography is allowed here!¡±


    Almost immediately, the reporters closed in, shes bursting around them in rapid session. Some even thrust their lenses closer, zooming directly onto the guards¡¯ faces.


    ¡°Are Keira and Sandra locked inside that room?¡± a young male reporter at the front asked sharply, his tone cutting through the noise.


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 Chapter 1404

    ?Chapter 1404:


    ¡°Who filled your head with such lies? Get out of here now!¡± one guard snapped, shoving forward in an effort to drive them back.


    But courage, or perhaps recklessness, carried the reporters onward. Instead of backing away, they pressed in tighter, their cameras raised high as they tried to force a path past the guards.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t stop right now, I won¡¯t hold back!¡± the guard eximed, his voice echoing down the hall and drawing curious guests out of the hotel rooms. The warning fell t. The reporters pressed on, shoving and even throwing blows as if the threat meant nothing.


    Refusing to yield, the guards shed with them, and the hallway erupted into a scuffle. Those at the front cast their cameras aside and lunged straight at the guards, fists flying.


    It quickly became clear to the Harper family¡¯s guards that these people weren¡¯t ordinary reporters. Their movements were sharp, their strength formidable, each strike revealing trained skill.


    Amid the chaos, a few of them forced the door open.


    Keira and Sandra, having heard themotion outside, had already hurried to the door. Seeing the crowd, Sandra was terrified and pulled Keira back.


    Keira stopped her daughter, her voice steady. ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid. I was the one who called these people over. They came to fight for our justice.¡±


    Barely ten minutester, the hotel¡¯s security forces rushed in, swiftly subduing the reporters and confiscating their equipment. The sudden turn of events left Keira stunned. She grabbed her daughter¡¯s arm and quickly drew her back into the room.


    Darrell soon appeared, his face dark with fury. Fixing his re on the young man who had resisted the hardest, he demanded, ¡°Who sent you here?¡±


    ¡°No one sent us,¡± the man shot back, fearless. ¡°We came for justice, to defend the victims and protect their safety. Everyizen with a conscience stands with us!¡±


    Darrell let out a cold scoff. ¡°Victims? You mean the homewrecker and her illegitimate child? They barge into the Harper family¡¯s home, insult its members, and demand money. Yet you still call them victims?¡±


    Your imagination thrives at  punt


    ¡°I don¡¯t care what you say. What I see is a mother and daughter being locked up here, denied their freedom. That¡¯s illegal!¡±


    ¡°Yeah, this is against thew!¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ve already contacted the police. They¡¯ll be here any minute!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right; you¡¯re holding us illegally!¡± Keira eximed, her voice firmer now. Watching the reporters¡¯ unshaken defiance, she felt her fear melt away, even admiring the courage they disyed despite being caught.


    Pointing directly at Darrell, she continued, ¡°Have some decency¡ªlet us go and hand back our phones!¡±


    Just then, a female reporter caught sight of the bruises on Keira¡¯s and Sandra¡¯s faces. She gasped loudly, her tone theatrical. ¡°Look at them! Their faces are bruised. They¡¯ve clearly been beaten up. What excuse do you have for that?¡±


    ¡°Exactly! What right do you have to strike them? What crime did the so-called homewreckermit? The fault lies with the man! If Shepard hadn¡¯t chased after her, would she have be a mistress?¡±


    .<fn22dd> Find the newest release on F?ndNovel</fn22dd>


    .


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 Chapter 1405

    ?Chapter 1405:


    ¡°It¡¯s in to see¡ªthese two women are victims. The Harpers sit on wealth and power. For the Harper family, crushing them would be as effortless as brushing aside a fly. You need to let them go now!¡±


    ¡°Who was it that called the police?¡± The shout cut through the mor as four police officers stepped out of the elevator, their stern faces scanning the chaos as they approached.


    ¡°Officer Archer!¡± Darrell rushed forward, shaking the lead officer¡¯s hand. ¡°Here¡¯s the situation. Those two women inside¡­¡± Darrell briefly exined.


    The officer¡¯s eyes swept over the crowd before he barked, ¡°Take them all to the police station!¡±


    ¡°What¡­¡± Keira muttered, stunned as everything unraveled before her eyes. She had expected the police to question Darrell first, then march straight to the Harper family to arrest Shepard and Giselle. But reality veered far from her imagination.<fnf370> Read full story at F?ndNovel</fnf370>


    Although Keira was taken away by the police, she noticed a throng of reporters waiting at the hotel entrance. These weren¡¯t the ones she had staged upstairs with rented equipment¡ªthese were professionals. Instead of fear, a surge of excitement welled inside her. The bigger the spectacle, the more everything would y to her advantage.


    She deliberately turned her bruised face toward the cameras, ensuring every mark was captured. But her triumph was short-lived. Before she could get close, the Empire Hotel¡¯s security swarmed in and escorted the reporters inside.


    Keira¡¯s lips twisted with dissatisfaction as she watched them go. Would they be silenced? Threatened? Perhaps even roughed up to keep this quiet? What a pity. The Harper family¡¯s scandal was ripe for exposure, yet it was being buried. Against the Harpers, she could never truly win.


    As Keira was guided to the police car, her thoughts churned. Sandra was loaded into a separate vehicle, while the troublesome reporters were carted to the station in the hotel¡¯s cars. The situation was contained, and Keira and Sandra were both taken to the police station.


    Despite orders to bury the story, by morning, the scandal had still erupted across major media. Headlines screamed of Shepard¡¯s legitimate wife attacking a mistress and an alleged illegitimate daughter, causing serious injury and forcing their detention. Though not the top trend, the story saturated Shirie and even reached Vand¡¯s major outlets.


    Check out more at g??????o¦Í???????co??


    Ernst arrived at work, his face a storm cloud. In the conference room, the PR team sat slumped, drained of vigor. Despite their efforts to quash the news the previous night, it had resurfaced within thirty minutes, spreading like wildfire. By morning, the shares and views had skyrocketed to explosive levels.


    Even thebined power of the Harper Group¡¯s and the Mitchell Group¡¯s PR teams couldn¡¯t douse the ze.


    Ernst¡¯s phone buzzed. Ethan¡¯s voice came through, steady but urgent. ¡°Someone¡¯s pulling strings behind this. Otherwise, our families¡¯ joint efforts would¡¯ve killed the story.¡±


    ¡°What do we do?¡± Ernst had no good solutions left.


    ¡°Go to the police station. Get Keira and Sandra released. Then, invite the media for a public DNA test of Sandra¡¯s hair and blood. Give the public answers. I¡¯ll handle steering public opinion. We can¡¯t let mistresses think they can do anything. What would that say about marriage? What¡¯s the point of it?¡±


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1406

    ?Chapter 1406:


    Ethan¡¯s clear-headed strategy steadied Ernst. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll follow your n.¡±


    Thepany¡¯s operations hummed along normally, except for the fric PR department. Ernst didn¡¯t rush to the police station. He directed the PR head to draft multiple statements first, rifying the situation across various channels. Once everything was set, he headed to the police station.


    At the Harper family¡¯s house, Lilith arrived early, sharing breakfast with Giselle. Brenna said to Giselle, ¡°Mom, things are spiraling. I need to help Ernst manage everything. Don¡¯t be upset. Anger won¡¯t fix this. We need to stand together to weather this storm.¡±


    After a night to cool off, Giselle was calmer. She shot Shepard, who remained silent, a frosty nce before muttering, ¡°Go. Your dad¡¯s in no state to show his face now.¡±


    Relieved to see her parentsposed, Brenna left.


    She found a mob of reporters¡ªmajor outlets and TV stations¡ªclogging the entrance of the police station. She parked a block away, pulling her baseball cap low and slipping on sunsses. Then, she entered the station through the west gate alongside Darwin, who¡¯d just arrived.


    Ernst was already there, withdrawing theint. Soon, Keira and Sandra were brought out.


    Keira faced the Harper siblings with a smug grin. ¡°If you¡¯d listened to mest night, would it havee to this? See, you still have to acknowledge my daughter¡¯s identity, don¡¯t you?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s voice was calm but edged with steel. ¡°Are you certain she¡¯s my father¡¯s daughter, Ms. Evans? Have you considered what happens if the DNA test says otherwise? The Harper family doesn¡¯t take kindly to such a lie.¡±


    Keira scoffed. ¡°She¡¯s his daughter, no question. I¡¯m not afraid of a DNA test. Let¡¯s do it now!¡±


    Her eyes gleamed with visions of wealth. For money, she¡¯d do anything. But as the testing agency staff approached with their equipment, a flicker of unease still stirred in her chest.


    g???????¦Í??????.k???? ¨C ???????????? ???? ????


    Sandra¡¯s voice wavered as she turned toward Keira, clinging to her like a lifeline. ¡°Mom¡­¡±


    Keira¡¯s resentment toward the Harper family simmered just beneath the surface. With all their riches, what would it cost them to spare a fraction for her and her child? Sandra might not have been raised under their roof, but blood tied her to Shepard, whether they liked it or not.<fncb9c> ??? ????? ???????s ??? ?????s??? ?? f?i?n?d?n?o?v?e?l?</fncb9c>


    Hatred burned in Keira¡¯s eyes, sharp enough to cut, as she leveled her re at Brenna and Ernst.


    When the staff from the Forensic Identification Center stepped forward to collect samples of Sandra¡¯s hair and blood, Sandra sat stiff in the chair, fear tightening every muscle.


    Brenna noticed Keira¡¯s expression and felt there was something she was hiding from the Harper family. Her words sliced through the silence, cold and blunt. ¡°Sandra isn¡¯t my father¡¯s daughter, is she?¡±


    Keira bristled at her tone, loathing the superiority in Brenna¡¯s eyes. What gave her the right to act like this before her? One day, her daughter would stand at her level, and Brenna would choke on her pride.


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1407

    Chapter 1407:


    ¡°Sounds fun! Teach me how.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Locke took Joy¡¯s hand. ¡°Let¡¯s go watch cartoons!¡±


    Not a writer¡¯s error , a thief¡¯s trick. The original is at  gal n o v e ls.


    ¡°Okay!¡± she chirped, skipping beside him.


    Meanwhile, Ernest and Eric made their way toward the living room. Just as they passed the foyer, a faint sound came from outside the front door. Both men paused and exchanged puzzled nces. The next moment, the door creaked open. Sebastian stepped in, his expression unreadable.<fnac38> Updates are released by find?novel</fnac38>


    ¡°Sebastian, what¡¯s the matter?¡± Ernest asked, his brows knitted together.


    The man seemed troubled. ¡°Mr. Flynn, it¡¯s¡­¡±


    Sebastian looked uneasy and pointed toward the door. ¡°It¡¯s Miss Harris¡­ She¡¯s here.¡±


    Before he could finish, Linda wheeled herself in.


    She paused at the sight of the two brothers standing together and then smiled casually. ¡°Oh, Eric¡¯s here too.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Eric nodded, a trace of confusion in his eyes. ¡°It¡¯ste. Did you need something?¡±


    ¡°Is this your house?¡± Linda raised an eyebrow. Her tone was light, almost amused. ¡°Do I need your permission to enter?¡±


    Eric said nothing, ncing toward Ernest.


    Ernest stepped in, just as uncertain. ¡°Linda¡­ is something wrong?¡±


    Before she could answer, Jane entered behind her.


    ¡°The movers are here,¡± she said quietly. ¡°Should they start bringing your things in?¡± The words weren¡¯t loud, but both Ernest and Eric heard them clearly.


    If something doesn¡¯t fit, it¡¯s intentional. The correct version is at  gal n o v els.


    Eric stiffened. She was moving back?


    Ernest¡¯s expression shifted. His brow creased. ¡°Linda¡­¡±


    Linda gave a sharp smile. ¡°You heard her. So I¡¯ll be direct. I¡¯m moving back in.¡±


    Ernest fell silent.


    ¡°What¡¯s with that look?¡± Her smile faltered slightly. ¡°Aren¡¯t you happy to have me back?¡±


    She didn¡¯t wait for a response. ¡°You once said the Flynn family would always be my home.¡±


    Her voice turned cold, the sarcasm barely hidden. ¡°I¡¯m tired of living elsewhere on my own. I want toe home. That¡¯s not a problem, is it?¡±


    Ernest was caught off guard, but he nodded. A promise was a promise. ¡°Of course not.¡±


    ¡°Good.¡± Linda lifted her chin. ¡°I knew you¡¯d understand.¡±


    She turned to Jane. ¡°Go ahead. Tell them to start moving everything in. My room is¡ª¡±


    She looked at Ernest. ¡°It¡¯s still there, right?¡±


    ¡°It is,¡± he said quietly.


    The Flynn Mansion was vast. Not only was Linda¡¯s room untouched, but even Eric¡¯s and Hadley¡¯s remained just as they had left them.


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1408

    Chapter 1408:


    ¡°Sounds fun! Teach me how.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Locke took Joy¡¯s hand. ¡°Let¡¯s go watch cartoons!¡±


    Not a writer¡¯s error , a thief¡¯s trick. The original is at  gal n o v e ls.


    ¡°Okay!¡± she chirped, skipping beside him.


    Meanwhile, Ernest and Eric made their way toward the living room. Just as they passed the foyer, a faint sound came from outside the front door. Both men paused and exchanged puzzled nces. The next moment, the door creaked open. Sebastian stepped in, his expression unreadable.


    ¡°Sebastian, what¡¯s the matter?¡± Ernest asked, his brows knitted together.


    The man seemed troubled. ¡°Mr. Flynn, it¡¯s¡­¡±


    Sebastian looked uneasy and pointed toward the door. ¡°It¡¯s Miss Harris¡­ She¡¯s here.¡±


    Before he could finish, Linda wheeled herself in.


    She paused at the sight of the two brothers standing together and then smiled casually. ¡°Oh, Eric¡¯s here too.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Eric nodded, a trace of confusion in his eyes. ¡°It¡¯ste. Did you need something?¡±


    ¡°Is this your house?¡± Linda raised an eyebrow. Her tone was light, almost amused. ¡°Do I need your permission to enter?¡±


    Eric said nothing, ncing toward Ernest.


    Ernest stepped in, just as uncertain. ¡°Linda¡­ is something wrong?¡±


    Before she could answer, Jane entered behind her.


    ¡°The movers are here,¡± she said quietly. ¡°Should they start bringing your things in?¡± The words weren¡¯t loud, but both Ernest and Eric heard them clearly.


    If something doesn¡¯t fit, it¡¯s intentional. The correct version is at  gal n o v els.


    Eric stiffened. She was moving back?


    Ernest¡¯s expression shifted. His brow creased. ¡°Linda¡­¡±


    Linda gave a sharp smile. ¡°You heard her. So I¡¯ll be direct. I¡¯m moving back in.¡±


    Ernest fell silent.


    ¡°What¡¯s with that look?¡± Her smile faltered slightly. ¡°Aren¡¯t you happy to have me back?¡±


    She didn¡¯t wait for a response. ¡°You once said the Flynn family would always be my home.¡±


    Her voice turned cold, the sarcasm barely hidden. ¡°I¡¯m tired of living elsewhere on my own. I want toe home. That¡¯s not a problem, is it?¡±


    Ernest was caught off guard, but he nodded. A promise was a promise. ¡°Of course not.¡±


    ¡°Good.¡± Linda lifted her chin. ¡°I knew you¡¯d understand.¡±


    She turned to Jane. ¡°Go ahead. Tell them to start moving everything in. My room is¡ª¡±


    She looked at Ernest. ¡°It¡¯s still there, right?¡±


    ¡°It is,¡± he said quietly.<fnb2d5> Th?s chapter is updated by F¦Énd£Îovel</fnb2d5>


    The Flynn Mansion was vast. Not only was Linda¡¯s room untouched, but even Eric¡¯s and Hadley¡¯s remained just as they had left them.


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1409

    Chapter 1409:


    ¡°Sounds fun! Teach me how.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Locke took Joy¡¯s hand. ¡°Let¡¯s go watch cartoons!¡±


    Not a writer¡¯s error , a thief¡¯s trick. The original is at  gal n o v e ls.


    ¡°Okay!¡± she chirped, skipping beside him.


    Meanwhile, Ernest and Eric made their way toward the living room. Just as they passed the foyer, a faint sound came from outside the front door. Both men paused and exchanged puzzled nces. The next moment, the door creaked open. Sebastian stepped in, his expression unreadable.


    ¡°Sebastian, what¡¯s the matter?¡± Ernest asked, his brows knitted together.


    The man seemed troubled. ¡°Mr. Flynn, it¡¯s¡­¡±


    Sebastian looked uneasy and pointed toward the door. ¡°It¡¯s Miss Harris¡­ She¡¯s here.¡±


    Before he could finish, Linda wheeled herself in.


    She paused at the sight of the two brothers standing together and then smiled casually. ¡°Oh, Eric¡¯s here too.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Eric nodded, a trace of confusion in his eyes. ¡°It¡¯ste. Did you need something?¡±


    ¡°Is this your house?¡± Linda raised an eyebrow. Her tone was light, almost amused. ¡°Do I need your permission to enter?¡±


    Eric said nothing, ncing toward Ernest.


    Ernest stepped in, just as uncertain. ¡°Linda¡­ is something wrong?¡±


    Before she could answer, Jane entered behind her.


    ¡°The movers are here,¡± she said quietly. ¡°Should they start bringing your things in?¡± The words weren¡¯t loud, but both Ernest and Eric heard them clearly.


    If something doesn¡¯t fit, it¡¯s intentional. The correct version is at  gal n o v els.


    Eric stiffened. She was moving back?


    Ernest¡¯s expression shifted. His brow creased. ¡°Linda¡­¡±


    Linda gave a sharp smile. ¡°You heard her. So I¡¯ll be direct. I¡¯m moving back in.¡±


    Ernest fell silent.


    ¡°What¡¯s with that look?¡± Her smile faltered slightly. ¡°Aren¡¯t you happy to have me back?¡±


    She didn¡¯t wait for a response. ¡°You once said the Flynn family would always be my home.¡±


    Her voice turned cold, the sarcasm barely hidden. ¡°I¡¯m tired of living elsewhere on my own. I want toe home. That¡¯s not a problem, is it?¡±


    Ernest was caught off guard, but he nodded. A promise was a promise. ¡°Of course not.¡±


    ¡°Good.¡± Linda lifted her chin. ¡°I knew you¡¯d understand.¡±


    She turned to Jane. ¡°Go ahead. Tell them to start moving everything in. My room is¡ª¡±


    She looked at Ernest. ¡°It¡¯s still there, right?¡±


    ¡°It is,¡± he said quietly.


    The Flynn Mansion was vast. Not only was Linda¡¯s room untouched, but even Eric¡¯s and Hadley¡¯s remained just as they had left them.


    .


    .<fn4ce9> The source of th?s content is find?novel</fn4ce9>


    .

 Chapter 1410

    Chapter 1410:


    ¡°Sounds fun! Teach me how.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Locke took Joy¡¯s hand. ¡°Let¡¯s go watch cartoons!¡±


    Not a writer¡¯s error , a thief¡¯s trick. The original is at  gal n o v e ls.


    ¡°Okay!¡± she chirped, skipping beside him.


    Meanwhile, Ernest and Eric made their way toward the living room. Just as they passed the foyer, a faint sound came from outside the front door. Both men paused and exchanged puzzled nces. The next moment, the door creaked open. Sebastian stepped in, his expression unreadable.


    ¡°Sebastian, what¡¯s the matter?¡± Ernest asked, his brows knitted together.


    The man seemed troubled. ¡°Mr. Flynn, it¡¯s¡­¡±


    Sebastian looked uneasy and pointed toward the door. ¡°It¡¯s Miss Harris¡­ She¡¯s here.¡±


    Before he could finish, Linda wheeled herself in.


    She paused at the sight of the two brothers standing together and then smiled casually. ¡°Oh, Eric¡¯s here too.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Eric nodded, a trace of confusion in his eyes. ¡°It¡¯ste. Did you need something?¡±


    ¡°Is this your house?¡± Linda raised an eyebrow. Her tone was light, almost amused. ¡°Do I need your permission to enter?¡±


    Eric said nothing, ncing toward Ernest.


    Ernest stepped in, just as uncertain. ¡°Linda¡­ is something wrong?¡±


    Before she could answer, Jane entered behind her.


    ¡°The movers are here,¡± she said quietly. ¡°Should they start bringing your things in?¡± The words weren¡¯t loud, but both Ernest and Eric heard them clearly.


    If something doesn¡¯t fit, it¡¯s intentional. The correct version is at  gal n o v els.


    Eric stiffened. She was moving back?


    Ernest¡¯s expression shifted. His brow creased. ¡°Linda¡­¡±


    Linda gave a sharp smile. ¡°You heard her. So I¡¯ll be direct. I¡¯m moving back in.¡±


    Ernest fell silent.


    ¡°What¡¯s with that look?¡± Her smile faltered slightly. ¡°Aren¡¯t you happy to have me back?¡±


    She didn¡¯t wait for a response. ¡°You once said the Flynn family would always be my home.¡±


    Her voice turned cold, the sarcasm barely hidden. ¡°I¡¯m tired of living elsewhere on my own. I want toe home. That¡¯s not a problem, is it?¡±


    Ernest was caught off guard, but he nodded. A promise was a promise. ¡°Of course not.¡±


    ¡°Good.¡± Linda lifted her chin. ¡°I knew you¡¯d understand.¡±


    She turned to Jane. ¡°Go ahead. Tell them to start moving everything in. My room is¡ª¡±


    She looked at Ernest. ¡°It¡¯s still there, right?¡±


    ¡°It is,¡± he said quietly.


    The Flynn Mansion was vast. Not only was Linda¡¯s room untouched, but even Eric¡¯s and Hadley¡¯s remained just as they had left them.


    .


    .


    .<hr>


    Message from Noah: Hope you liked having the chapters a bit early dear readers. God loves you and Noah wishes you all the best. (? ?? ? ¨C ? ) ?


    .<fn62dd> Get full chapters from f?ndnovel</fn62dd>

 Chapter 1411

    Chapter 1411:


    Keira¡¯s temper red, her voice sharp enough to cut ss. ¡°Don¡¯t you dare talk about ¡®what ifs.¡¯ I know exactly whose child I carried. Look at her¡ªshe¡¯s the spitting image of your father. Do you think I¡¯d be here without certainty? Stop wasting time and hand over the money.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s expression hardened, her tone cold as ice. ¡°Until the DNA test results are in my hand, you won¡¯t see a penny.¡±


    She slipped her phone from her pocket, firing off a message to Ethan, asking him to dig into every detail of Keira¡¯s past.


    The brush-off only fueled Keira¡¯s outrage, though she masked it with a sneer. ¡°Fine. Keep pretending now. When the DNA test confirms what I already know, you¡¯ll have no choice but to pay me. I¡¯ll be expecting shares, property, and money.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s nerves were stretched taut. Tugging at her mother¡¯s sleeve, she whispered, ¡°Mom, please stop. Let¡¯s wait for the test results before talking about that.¡±


    But Keira turned on her daughter with scorn. ¡°And let them walk all over us? Can¡¯t you see how much you look like Shepard? We don¡¯t need any test to prove it. They know the truth, but they¡¯re stalling because they don¡¯t want to admit it. If you stay this soft, you¡¯ll be bullied until the day you die. Listen to me¡ªevery single day from now until the results, we push for what we can get. Even the scraps they drop are enough for us to live well for the rest of our lives. Don¡¯t you dare go soft!¡±


    Keira¡¯s shameless words filled the car, and neither Brenna nor Ernst missed a word of it.


    Once her message to Ethan was sent, Brenna¡¯s eyes hardened like steel. ¡°Do you honestly take the Harper family for fools? Should we hand over whatever anyone demands, just because they show up at our door shouting?¡±


    Keira gave a dismissive snort and turned her face to the window, pretending Brenna¡¯s words weren¡¯t worth a reply.


    The ride ended quickly, and soon the looming gates of the Harper family¡¯s residence came into view.


    The moment Giselle spotted Keira and Sandra stepping back into the estate, her fragile calm shattered. Her spirits, which had just begun to lift, plummeted once more.


    ?????? ?????? ?????????????????? ??????????: g???????¦Í??????????????


    Shepard was just as frustrated. His expression darkened the second heid eyes on the two women, irritation bubbling close to the surface.


    Giselle raised her voice at Shepard, sharp with me. ¡°See what you¡¯ve caused? After all these years, they still cling to you like leeches. What are you going to do about this?¡±


    By the time Keira and Sandra were ushered into the living room, Shepard was already standing there, bristling with anger.


    Keira, however, saw only opportunity. She smoothed her hair, adjusted her blouse, and lifted her chin as though she were a teenage girl again. Her tone softened, dripping with false sweetness. She dreamed that if she yed her part well enough, Shepard would divorce Giselle and marry her. And if that happened, everything the Harper family owned would belong to Sandra and her.


    ¡°Shepard¡­¡± Keira called out gently.


    Shepard¡¯s response was a thunderp. ¡°Shut your mouth! You disgust me. Have you looked in a mirrortely?¡±


    .


    .<fn61b3> Follow current nov?ls on F?nd-Novel</fn61b3>


    .<hr>


    Message from Noah: Sorry for beingte dear ones, 30 new chapters avable now, hope you enjoy it. God loves you and Noah wishes you all the best. (?O?=)? ?


    .

 Chapter 1412

    ?Chapter 1412:


    The servants of the Harper household lowered their heads, shoulders trembling as they struggled to contain theirughter.


    Sandra stole a nce at Shepard, curiosity glimmering in her eyes. Age hadn¡¯t diminished him¡ªhis presence wasmanding, his features sharp, his bearing refined. If he was really her father, she would consider herself lucky.


    Her gaze flicked to Ernst, striking andposed, and then she remembered Dalton¡ªthe star who filled every magazine cover. The thought of sharing blood with them felt almost unreal, like a dreame true.


    ¡°Dad, please don¡¯t be upset. My mom only wanted a chance to speak with you,¡± Sandra said to Shepard carefully, lowering her voice.


    The Harper family fixed Sandra with icy stares, their irritation palpable. Shepard, the most annoyed, barked, ¡°Don¡¯t call me that; I¡¯m not your dad!¡±


    Sandra flinched at the sharp rebuke, her voice faltering. ¡°Yes, Mr. Harper¡­¡± She felt deeply aggrieved, and tears welled in her eyes.


    Keira, seeing her daughter¡¯s distress, bristled and stepped in. ¡°You can deny it now, but when the test results arrive in a few days, you will have to ept that she is your daughter!¡±


    She had no fondness for the Harper family and spoke boldly. ¡°I¡¯m out of money. Hand over some right now.¡±


    Shepard shot her a frosty look. ¡°What gives you the right to demand money from me? Do I owe you anything?¡±


    Humiliated, Keira glowered at him, knowing he was right but hoping to bluff her way through. When he didn¡¯t budge, she faltered. ¡°Your daughter is broke. Can¡¯t you give her some money?¡±


    Shepard¡¯s face hardened. ¡°My daughter? Are you sure she¡¯s mine? You know the truth. Stop bothering me here. You two should go to the room set aside for you. Stay there and don¡¯t wander. Julia, show them the way.¡±


    Keira followed the direction of his pointed finger and erupted in anger. ¡°What do you mean by this? That¡¯s the servants¡¯ quarters! Why should we stay there? How dare you treat us like this? My daughter will be a Harper in the future. We won¡¯t stay in the servants¡¯ quarters!¡±


    ?????????? ???????????? ??????? g???????¦Í?????????????


    Shepard¡¯s expression remained unyielding. He ignored her.<fn879c> The source of th?s content is find?novel</fn879c>


    Giselle, trembling with fury, pointed at Keira. ¡°That is only if the tests prove Sandra¡¯s a Harper. Otherwise, what im do you have to pick rooms? If the servants¡¯ quarters aren¡¯t good enough for you, you can sleep in a tent outside!¡±


    Brenna stepped forward, her tone sharp. ¡°What if the results show Sandra isn¡¯t my father¡¯s daughter? Is it right for you to enjoy the Harper family¡¯s privileges now? And if she takes my father¡¯s money and it turns out she is not his daughter, will you pay it back?¡±


    Keira struggled for a response, eventually blurting, ¡°My daughter is absolutely a Harper. I gave birth to her¡ªI know it!¡±


    Enough nonsense. Get out of our sight. Without our say-so, you¡¯re not to leave your room,¡± Brenna said, then gave Julia a nce.


    Julia, apanied by two servants, led Keira and Sandra to the servants¡¯ quarters, where a clean, spacious room with two beds awaited.


    The grand hopes Keira and Sandra had harbored on their way here shattered instantly.


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1413

    ?Chapter 1413:


    Keira seethed with disappointment and rage as she and her daughter were ushered inside the room. Though a servant¡¯s room, it was decorated far better than their home.


    Julia stood at the door, saying to the servants in front of Keira and Sandra, ¡°Take turns keeping watch. Don¡¯t let them leave and disrupt the household. This house holds valuable items¡ªif anything goes missing, we will call the police.¡±


    Sandra, too intimidated to challenge Shepard, wasn¡¯t afraid of the servants. She snapped, ¡°What are you implying? That we would steal something?¡±


    Julia smirked. ¡°Did I say that? I only mentioned that everything here is valuable. We can¡¯t afford topensate if anything goes missing.¡±


    Sandra scoffed. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, we won¡¯t touch a thing. But we have the right to our freedom. You can¡¯t confine us here.¡±


    Keira joined in. ¡°Exactly! We¡¯re not prisoners. Inform them that we demand the right to move freely within this house. We want to explore the entire ce.¡± She started toward the door, but the two servants blocked her path, firmly stating, ¡°Sorry, you¡¯re just guests here. Without the Harper family¡¯s permission, you can¡¯t look around.¡±


    Keira¡¯s anger boiled over, and she began shouting.


    Julia, unfazed, pushed her back inside the room and mmed the door shut. Sandra slumped onto a bed, her spirit crushed. ¡°Mom, we can¡¯t win against them. We should just behave to avoid more trouble.¡±


    Keira sat on the other bed, fuming as she surveyed the room. ¡°Even the Harper family¡¯s servants¡¯ quarters are better than our ce. Sandra, you have to stay here. My future depends on you. Why didn¡¯t you defend yourself when Shepard snapped at you? How useless can you be? Didn¡¯t I tell you what to do before we came here?¡±


    Sandra pouted. ¡°Didn¡¯t you say I shouldn¡¯t talk? That you would handle everything? But from what I see, the Harper family is difficult to deal with.¡±


    Keira sighed heavily. ¡°This won¡¯t do. We need a n to gain some freedom in this house.¡±


    Exclusive updates: galno¦Íe??s.co??


    Sandra rubbed her growling stomach. ¡°Mom, I¡¯m starving. I barely atest night and spent the whole night at the police station without food. It¡¯s nearly noon now. I need to ask them for something to eat.¡±


    Keira nodded, her face sour. ¡°I¡¯m hungry too. These people are so cold-hearted¡ªthey didn¡¯t even ask if we¡¯re hungry.¡±


    Sandra noticed Keira¡¯s lingering bitterness and resentment toward the Harper family, always grumbling and dissatisfied. She worried her hostile attitude might further antagonize them.


    ¡°Mom, let¡¯s not stir up trouble, okay? If we act more cooperatively, they might loosen up and let us move around.¡± Sandra believed that a softer approach could improve the Harper family¡¯s view of them.<fn6ad3> Content originallyes from findnovel</fn6ad3>


    But Keira scoffed at the idea. ¡°They¡¯re heartless, with no conscience at all. And you think you can win them over? Are you out of your mind?¡±


    Sandra disagreed with Keira¡¯s confrontational tactics, though she admitted they had forced the Harper family to let them stay in the house, which was something. Still, she didn¡¯t think constant hostility was the way forward, especially since she hoped to build asting connection with the family.


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1414

    ?Chapter 1414:


    ¡°I¡¯m going to ask for some food,¡± she said, walking to the door. Her demeanor was polite. ¡°We are really hungry. Could you please bring us something to eat? Thank you.¡±


    The two servants outside exchanged a look. Sandra sounded sincere and respectful, unlike Keira, who always acted as if the Harper family owed her something.


    One servant responded, ¡°Wait for a moment.¡±


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Sandra replied courteously.


    But the servants saw her politeness as merely a means to get what she wanted, not something genuine.


    Keira, displeased by her daughter¡¯s demeanor, snapped, ¡°You can¡¯t shake your weak habits, can you? Being all polite and sweet¡ªdo you think that will make them treat you better? They¡¯ll just see you as a pushover.¡±


    ¡°Mom, enough,¡± Sandra replied. ¡°I have my own n. If I¡¯m going to stay here, I need to get along with them. Do you think fighting with them daily will make them hand over money willingly? You have to win them over first.¡±


    She walked over and sat beside Keira. ¡°So, Mom, try being civil with the Harper family. We need something from them, after all.¡±


    Keira sneered, unconvinced. ¡°I won¡¯t do that. If I act all meek and humble, they will toss us out in a heartbeat. With your soft nature, you¡¯ll just get trampled if you stay here.¡±<fnde00> Follow current nov?ls on find(?)ovel</fnde00>


    Their differing views sparked a brief argument, leaving both frustrated. Just then, a servant returned with some bread and two dishes¡ªone meat, one vegetable. The meal was simple but decent.


    The servant ced the food on the coffee table and left.


    Though basic, Sandra was relieved it wasn¡¯t leftovers. ¡°See, Mom? I asked politely, and they brought us food. It looks freshly made. If you¡¯re kinder, they¡¯ll ease up on us. Don¡¯t cause trouble anymore. I¡¯ll try againter, and maybe we¡¯ll get more freedom this afternoon.¡±


    g?????0¦Í??????.??????, ???????????? ????????


    Keira, still skeptical, said, ¡°Go ahead and try. If it works, I¡¯ll follow your lead. If they say no, you¡¯ll follow mine.¡±


    Sandra didn¡¯t reply to that, only saying, ¡°Let¡¯s eat. I¡¯m starving.¡±


    They sat on the sofa, but Keira, recalling the Harper family¡¯s extravagant dinner the previous night, grumbled about the modest meal.


    ¡°You don¡¯t get it. This is probably what they feed the servants. They¡¯re eating like kings while we get these two measly dishes. What do they take us for?¡±


    Sandra shook her head at Keira¡¯s words. ¡°If I were a Harper and had two rude guests, I would only give them leftovers. Be grateful. This is quite decent.¡±


    Keira huffed and said, ¡°You¡¯ll just let them walk all over you.¡±


    After ensuring Keira and Sandra were settled, Ernst and Shepard headed to thepany, where a pile of urgent tasks awaited.


    Before leaving, Shepard reached for Giselle¡¯s hand, but she avoided him, her eyes zing with resentment. ¡°Sweetheart, don¡¯t be like this. This happened over twenty years ago, and we dealt with it then. How could I know Keira would reappear after all this time? It¡¯s not something I can control. Please forgive me. I promise I will skip all social events from now on. I¡¯m not young anymore¡ªit¡¯s time I step back and let Ernst run thepany. Is that alright?¡± Shepard said.


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 Chapter 1415

    ?Chapter 1415:


    Giselle¡¯s eyes brimmed with tears. She loved Shepard deeply. If she didn¡¯t care so much, she wouldn¡¯t be so hurt. ¡°You¡¯re just saying what you think I want to hear. Don¡¯t think you can trick me,¡± she said.


    ¡°I¡¯m serious,¡± Shepard said. ¡°I¡¯m heading to the office today to start the handover. In two months, when you retire, we will travel the world together, chasing all the dreams we put aside in our youth.¡±<fn1269> Find the newest release on find?novel</fn1269>


    Giselle softened, nodding. ¡°If you break your promise, I will definitely divorce you!¡±


    Ernst approached, saying earnestly, ¡°Mom, even with Dad handing over the reins, it will take a month or two. He has some critical projects to wrap up. Don¡¯t rush him, and don¡¯t use him of not wanting to retire.¡±


    Giselle shot him a sharp nce. ¡°Our family has been in business for decades. You think I don¡¯t know how it works? I don¡¯t need your reminders.¡±


    Ernst sighed in relief. At least his mother wasn¡¯t talking divorce anymore. He wondered how his father had calmed her down after their heated argument the previous night, which had left them sleeping in separate rooms.


    As Shepard and Ernst left, Brenna, though needed at thepany, opted to stay with Giselle, feeling concerned for her. Lilith also stayed. She was shocked at the melodrama unfolding in what she had thought was a wless family. She was especially stunned that Giselle tolerated Keira and Sandra staying in her home.


    Julia, stationed by the door, spoke briefly with the servants tasked with monitoring Keira and Sandra. ¡°Do you really need to trouble Mrs. Harper with such trivial matters? She has enough on her te. If they need to use the restroom, let them go. Don¡¯t bother Mrs. Harper with minor decisions¡ªuse your own judgment.¡±


    Giselle, having made peace with the situation, knew dwelling on a decades-old issue wouldn¡¯t change anything. Reprimanding Shepard was pointless, so she let Keira and Sandra stay here.


    Brenna and Lilith took her shopping to lift her spirits.


    The next day, staff from the Forensic Identification Center arrived with the DNA test results.


    ???????????? ???????? ??????????????: ?????????¦Í?????????????


    Julia entered Keira and Sandra¡¯s room, her expression icy and contemptuous. ¡°The test results are in. You shoulde and hear them.¡±


    Keira¡¯s face hardened; she was convinced the Harper family had tampered with the results. ¡°You think we¡¯re idiots you can fool? DNA tests take at least a week. How do you have results in one day?¡± she eximed.


    Julia smirked. ¡°A week is for regr people. For clients like the Harper family, they can rush the test and get the results in twenty-four hours. Come on¡ªeveryone¡¯s waiting.¡±


    Hearing that, Keira exchanged a look with Sandra, both aware that wealth brought privileges but suspicious that this was a staged act by the Harper family. Keira whispered to her daughter, ¡°Mark my words, they will say you¡¯re not Shepard¡¯s daughter to kick us out. They think they can bully us because they are rich and powerful; I won¡¯t let them seed.¡±


    She grabbed Julia¡¯s arm, saying, ¡°Hold on. Give me your phone. I want to call a reporter to witness this. If you fake the results, what can we do?¡±


    Julia didn¡¯t budge. ¡°Once the results are clear and this is settled, Mrs. Harper will return your things.¡±


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 Chapter 1416

    ?Chapter 1416:


    Keira scoffed. ¡°Fine, but I need to use the restroom first.¡± She then shot Sandra a meaningful nce.


    Julia, knowing that Keira had no phone with her, allowed her to go.


    . . .


    Keira locked the bathroom door, reached beneath her cor, and pulled out a phone hidden in her undergarments. She powered it on and dialed a number. ¡°The DNA test results for Shepard and his supposed illegitimate daughter are in. Get to the Harper residence immediately,¡± she said urgently.


    ¡°Who¡¯s this?¡± The voice belonged to a tabloid magazine editor, a contact provided to Keira by a paparazzo.


    Keira hadn¡¯t anticipated needing it before, but now it came in handy. With all her paid contacts detained at the police station, she had no choice but to turn to the media.


    Stepping into the living room, Keira found the Harpers gathered with Ableson¡¯s family. She surveyed the scene, a wry amusement flickering within her at the entourage assembled over what she considered trivial. The Harpers had promised the media at the police station yesterday that they would publicly disclose the results, yet no reporters had shown up now. They were obviously trying to deceive the public.


    In a prominent spot sat two DNA analysts who had collected the samples the previous day, clutching a document with grave expressions.


    Keira silently scoffed, dismissing them as puppets. She believed the Harpers¡¯ wealth could easily sway their words.


    She nced outside. Barely a minute had passed since her call¡ªfar too early for the media to arrive. She needed to buy more time.


    ¡°Mr. Harper!¡± Keira approached Ernst swiftly. ¡°You promised yesterday to announce the results publicly. Why isn¡¯t a single reporter here? What are you scheming?¡±


    Ernst¡¯s face soured at the sight of Keira. ¡°This is the Harper family¡¯s business. You have no right to meddle.¡±


    ???????????????????? ???? ?????????¦Í??????[?]??????<fn2c9b> This content belongs to Find_Novel(.</fn2c9b>


    Keira seized on his words. ¡°What¡¯s that supposed to mean? Are you going back on your word? Oh, I get it now¡ªSandra isn¡¯t Shepard¡¯s daughter, is she? No matter the results, that¡¯s what you¡¯d tell me. Is there any justice left? What are my daughter and I to the rich? Nothing but dirt beneath your feet! We need reporters here now, otherwise I¡¯ll¡ª¡±


    Brenna¡¯s voice cut through, cold. ¡°You¡¯ll what?¡±


    Keira met Brenna¡¯s piercing gaze, a chill running through her. The young woman¡¯s stare was sharp, and the man beside her was equally formidable. Forcing herself to stayposed, Keira believed she needed to stall for at least ten minutes, hoping the media would arrive.


    ¡°You agreed yesterday to make the results public. Don¡¯t even think about backing out now. If you refuse to call the media, I swear, as long as I¡¯m breathing, I¡¯ll use you of holding me and my daughter against our will.¡±


    ¡°Shut up!¡± Darrell exploded, his patience with Keira long exhausted. ¡°Who do you think you are? You expect Mr. and Mrs. Harper to bow to your demands? Years ago, you took one hundred million from the Harpers and vowed never to show your face again. Did you keep your word? You didn¡¯t¡ªyou¡¯re here now. Don¡¯t think I¡¯m blind to your motives; you¡¯re after more money.¡±


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 Chapter 1417

    ?Chapter 1417:


    Unease flickered in Keira, but her face showed no trace of it. She shouted, ¡°How could I have known back then that my daughter was Shepard¡¯s? I had no idea! I¡¯ve raised her for years. Is it too much to ask for a bit of child support? That doesn¡¯t mean I broke my promise.¡±


    Sandra wasn¡¯t shocked by this. Her mother had recently recounted her past repeatedly. Deep down, she also feared the Harpers might manipte the test results and kick them out. She hoped her mother¡¯smotion would draw media attention, forcing the Harpers to tread carefully.


    ¡°Yes, my mother has shaped me into an extraordinary person, pouring endless love and effort into raising me. Is it unreasonable to ask for some child support?¡± Sandra¡¯s voice carried a trace of nerves. Still, she wanted to im her rights, clinging to her mother¡¯s assertion that she was Shepard¡¯s daughter.


    Brenna¡¯s lips curved into a faint smile. ¡°Rest assured. If Sandra truly is my father¡¯s daughter, we¡¯ll keep our word and hold a wee banquet for her.¡±


    Keira studied the Harper family members¡¯ faces, each one darker than thest, and the truth dawned on her. The results couldn¡¯t have matched their hopes; otherwise, they wouldn¡¯t look so grim. If the test had proven Sandra wasn¡¯t Shepard¡¯s child, they would have tossed her and Sandra out long before now. There would have been no reason to summon the staff from the Forensic Identification Center.


    A triumphantugh burst from Keira as she stepped toward Brenna. ¡°So the report confirms it, right? My daughter really is Shepard¡¯s child!¡±


    Her excitement overflowed, words tumbling quickly. ¡°You¡¯ve all read it already, haven¡¯t you?¡± Without waiting for an answer, she snatched the folder from the staff¡¯s hands and flipped straight to the final page. Her eyes lit with joy as she read. ¡°Sandra, look! It¡¯s true¡ªyou¡¯re Shepard¡¯s daughter! Fate has finally given us justice. This is wonderful, Sandra, truly wonderful. From now on, you are part of the Harper family, and a life of wealth and prosperity awaits you.¡±


    Sandra kept her eyes on the report, her lips curving into a smile she couldn¡¯t contain. ¡°Mom, it¡¯s real! I can stay here from now on! This is incredible!¡±


    Brenna¡¯s gaze shifted to Ethan, irritation tightening in her chest. None of them in the Harper family had expected this result. When the call had firste from the Forensic Identification Center, they had been ready to cast Sandra and Keira out and brand them as liars before the public. But to their surprise, Sandra truly was Shepard¡¯s daughter.


    Your next journey starts at g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s???o??


    Ethan gave Brenna¡¯s hand a reassuring squeeze. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. She won¡¯t be able to cause much trouble. At most, your family will acknowledge her, but what she receives is entirely up to your family. The wealth belongs to you all, and you can decide how it¡¯s divided. Just being Shepard¡¯s daughter doesn¡¯t mean she automatically gets her hands on the assets.¡±


    Hearing that, Keira snapped at Ethan without hesitation. ¡°And who exactly do you think you are? Last I checked, you¡¯re not part of the Harper family, so don¡¯t stick your nose where it doesn¡¯t belong!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m Brenna¡¯s future husband,¡± Ethan answered coolly, his sharp gaze making Keira stumble back two steps.


    Only then did Sandra dare to really look at Ethan. Up until now, she had avoided his eyes. He was far too striking, carrying an aura that made her self-conscious. She had assumed he was Brenna¡¯s cousin; learning he was Brenna¡¯s fianc¨¦ stunned her.


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    .<fn612b> For original chapters go to fin?novel</fn612b>

 Chapter 1418

    ?Chapter 1418:


    A thought flickered across her mind: if she had grown up in the Harper family, could she have ended up with someone so extraordinary, too?


    Sandra¡¯s pulse quickened as her eyes lingered on Ethan a moment too long, and when his piercing stare caught hers, she panicked and quickly turned away. Keira faltered, words failing her, before forcing out a scoff. ¡°So what? You¡¯re still an outsider. Until you marry Brenna, this has nothing to do with you. Shepard hasn¡¯t spoken yet, so you don¡¯t get to say anything about the matter.¡±


    Sandra tugged at Keira¡¯s sleeve. ¡°Don¡¯t talk to him like that. He¡¯s been on the cover of finance magazines before; he¡¯s the CEO of the Mitchell Group, the richest man in the world.¡±


    Keira¡¯s jaw dropped in shock. ¡°What did you just say?¡±


    Her eyes snapped back to Ethan, and her attitude toward him shifted in an instant.


    Shepard finally spoke up. ¡°The test leaves no doubt¡ªSandra is my daughter. She can remain here. But you, Keira, cannot.¡±


    Keira¡¯s heart leapt with triumph, a sense of superiority swelling inside her. To her, the Harper family suddenly seemed beneath her; she was the one dictating terms now, and they had no choice but toply.


    ¡°I understand. I never intended to stay anyway.¡± Deep down, she had once entertained the idea of marrying Shepard, but reality had extinguished that hope. With a sharp snort, she added, ¡°I don¡¯t mind leaving, as long as my daughter¡¯s future is secured. But raising her all these years has cost me dearly¡ªpiano lessons, dance training, college tuition¡­ none of it came cheap. You owe mepensation.¡±


    Without hesitation, Shepard pulled a check from the desk and filled it out with a few quick strokes of his pen.


    Darrell took it and thrust it toward Keira. ¡°Take it and get out!¡±


    Keira¡¯s eyes dropped to the figure on the check, and rage made her hands shake. ¡°Just a hundred million? You expect me to leave with this? I spent years raising your daughter¡­¡±<fn3a10> Find the newest release on </fn3a10>


    F??ll ?????????? ??????i?????????? ???? g??l??ov?ls.??????


    ¡°¡­shaping her into who she is today, and this is what you give me? I want at least two billion¡ªnothing less¡ªor I¡¯m not leaving!¡±


    The Harper family regarded Keira with icy stares, a trace of resentment in every face.


    Brenna calmly pulled out her phone, opened the calctor app, and said, ¡°So you believe one hundred million isn¡¯t enough? We consider it quite generous. But since you insist on more, why don¡¯t we do the math and figure out how much you spent on your daughter before? You want reimbursement for raising Sandra, correct?¡±


    Keira lifted her chin defiantly, refusing to be cowed even as Brenna¡¯s piercing gaze unsettled her. ¡°That¡¯s right. I want the cost of raising her covered. My daughter is a sessful fashion designer now. You¡¯ve heard of Catherine Fletcher, haven¡¯t you?¡±


    Because Brenna¡¯s best friend was among the world¡¯s leading fashion designers, she had naturally be familiar with many renowned names in the industry. Ellie often spoke about them, analyzing their styles and exploring their design philosophies. Brenna knew Catherine¡ªa graceful designer in her fifties whose reputation carried weight across the industry.


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 Chapter 1419

    ?Chapter 1419:


    ¡°Surely you¡¯re not iming your daughter is Catherine, right?¡± Brenna asked in a detached tone.


    Keira¡¯s face faltered for a beat before she forced confidence back into her voice. ¡°Of course not. But my daughter is Catherine¡¯s most valued student. She trained under her directly and even signed on as one of her contracted designers. That¡¯s proof enough of how remarkable my daughter is. And I was the one who invested everything¡ªmoney, effort, all of it¡ªto ensure she reached that level. Which is why I demand two billion from you. Not a penny less.¡±


    ¡°Is that so? Then let¡¯s run the numbers. From what I know, after leaving the Harper family, you married iborn Baxter¡ªjust an ordinary worker, earning no more than fifty thousand a year.¡± Brenna¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°Tell me, am I wrong?¡±


    Keira¡¯s eyes red wide, anger sparking as she snapped, ¡°You¡¯ve investigated me?¡±


    She jabbed a finger at Brenna. ¡°Who gave you the right to dig into my life? Did I ever permit you to do that?¡±


    Her fury spilled over, though her chest tightened with unease. How much had the Harper family already uncovered about her?


    When she swept her gaze across the room, the Harpers wore cold expressions. They looked at her with disdain in their eyes. The knot of panic inside her grew heavier.<fna29a> Updates are released by findnovel</fna29a>


    Trying to mask it with bravado, she raised her chin and dered, ¡°So what if my husband and I don¡¯t make much money? Every cent we had went into raising our daughter. Twenty-six years of expenses aren¡¯t cheap. And the hundred million I took from you before? That was all spent on my daughter. I molded her into the woman she is today, and for that, you owe me!¡±


    ¡°We owe you?¡± Brenna¡¯s voice was steady, almost cool. ¡°Tell me, did you honestly use the entire one hundred million on your daughter?¡±


    Keira assumed Brenna had no knowledge of her gambling addiction or how that money had already vanished into losses. As long as that secret stayed buried, she believed she could still squeeze more from the Harper family.


    ¡°Of course! My daughter is everything to me,¡± she dered without hesitation.


    Stay tuned for more g¦Áln¦Ò¦Í??s.c¡ðm


    At that moment, Brenna reached into her bag and drew out a stack of photographs. Julia stepped forward, took them, and beganying them before Keira one by one. The photographs captured Keira seated at casino tables, chips piled before her¡ªsometimes grinning in victory, other times sunk in defeat.


    ¡°Where did you get these? They¡¯re fake! Completely fabricated! You¡¯re trying to frame me!¡± Keira¡¯s voice trembled between panic and outrage. She was stunned that the Harper family had uncovered this. She had clearly underestimated them.


    Brenna¡¯s lips curved into a faint smile. ¡°That one hundred million disappeared at the casino when Sandra was only twelve. You wasted it all. The money that kept her fed and clothed came from your husband¡¯s modest wages. You lived idly, gambling recklessly whenever cashnded in your hands, even pawning off valuables from your home. In truth, the amount you invested in your daughter was only a few thousand dors each year.¡±


    Keira was beyond furious. ¡°Lies! You¡¯re making things up! You have mountains of money¡ªwhat¡¯s wrong with giving me some? Is two billion really so much? For you, it¡¯s just pocket change! Why be so miserly? Sandra is exceptional and hardworking. She brings honor to¡ª¡±


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 Chapter 1420

    ?Chapter 1420:


    ¡°¡­your family. That should make you give me morepensation. If you keep refusing to give me more money, I¡¯ll expose everything to the public!¡±


    ¡°What are you panicking about?¡± Brenna said, her tone calm and steady. ¡°Even if the Harper family owed child support, it wouldn¡¯te close to the outrageous figure you¡¯re demanding. Byw, my father would only need to pay twenty percent of his monthly sry. His ie has been steady over the years¡ªtwenty thousand a month. Twenty percent of that is four thousand.¡± After a brief pause, she continued, ¡°Multiply that across twelve months, and it¡¯s forty-eight thousand a year. Support ends when Sandra turns eighteen. Eighteen years at forty-eight thousandes to a total of eight hundred sixty-four thousand. That¡¯s all thew requires. But since our family is wealthier than most, we¡¯re willing to offer more than that. Exactly how much more depends on my father¡¯s generosity.¡±


    Shepard gave a nod of approval at Brenna¡¯s reasoning. As Sandra¡¯s father, doing the math himself would have made him look miserly, but through Brenna, it sounded fair.<fn9ffd> Official source is find¡¤novel</fn9ffd>


    ¡°She¡¯s right; we¡¯ll follow the legal standard. Still, because our ie is higher, we¡¯ll add more. We¡¯ll give you an extra ten million,¡± he said.


    Keira¡¯s eyes widened in shock. ¡°Absolutely not! Shepard, what game are you ying? Don¡¯t forget, you also receive dividends from the Harper Group. Those dividends count as ie, and twenty percent of that shoulde to us, too! Don¡¯t try to trick me.¡±


    Shepard shook his head firmly. ¡°You¡¯re wrong. The dividends are reflected only in thepany¡¯s ounts. They never enter my personal ount. The only funds deposited into my ount are my sry.¡±


    Keira¡¯s face went pale with disbelief. ¡°That¡¯s impossible! You¡¯re lying! You just don¡¯t want to pay¡ªI refuse to believe it!¡±


    Brenna, unfazed, knew it didn¡¯t matter whether Keira believed her or not. The Harper family¡¯s financial system was governed by strict procedures, and no one in the family could alter the records. Even if Keira demanded proof, she would find nothing to support her ims.


    Unbothered, Brenna said, ¡°Since you and your husband did cover Sandra¡¯s college tuition, we¡¯ll add that in, estimated at one million. Altogether, the child supportes to eleven million. We¡¯ll have a check written for you right now.¡±


    Updates loaded at g¦Ál¦Ç¦Ò¦Íe??s


    Keira¡¯s voice shook as her confidence crumbled. She hadn¡¯t expected her n to copse sopletely. ¡°It was supposed to be one hundred million! You promised me one hundred million earlier! What is this? Are you backing out now? I¡¯ll expose you for the greedy, heartless people you really are and let the world see how cruel the Harpers can be!¡±


    Julia stepped forward calmly, tilting her head toward Keira. ¡°Ms. Evans, do you notice what¡¯s pinned to my cor?¡±


    Until now, Keira had barely noticed Julia, dismissing her as just a servant. But when her eyes finally fell on her, she caught sight of the tiny camera clipped to Julia¡¯s cor, its red light blinking steadily.


    Her stomach dropped. ¡°You¡¯re live-streaming this?¡± she eximed.


    Rage surged through her veins. So her greed had beenid bare to the entire world? It was exposed that she hadn¡¯te here to prove her daughter¡¯s identity¡ªshe hade to extort the Harper family.


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 Chapter 1421

    ?Chapter 1421:


    Keira hurled herself at Julia, wing for the camera, but Darrell caught her in an instant. ¡°Save your strength,¡± he said coldly. ¡°Everyone has already seen you for what you are. You¡¯d better behave now.¡±


    ¡°You tricked me! How could you do this?¡± Keira shouted, her fury boiling over, though there was nothing she could do now.


    By then, Shepard had already finished writing the check. Darrell took it and ced it firmly in Keira¡¯s hand. ¡°Take the money and leave.¡±


    Shepard¡¯s tone was grave as he made his stance clear. ¡°Sandra is my daughter. She will remain here as part of the Harper family. I¡¯ll provide for her living costs, and she¡¯ll receive an allowance every month.¡±


    Through clenched teeth, Keira muttered, ¡°And what about the shares? Every Harper family member has them. My daughter deserves her share, too!¡±


    Her eyes dropped to the check¡ªonly eleven million¡ªand bitter regret gnawed at her. She should never have turned down the one hundred million when she had the chance. But regrets served no purpose now. Herst hope clung to the idea of Sandra gaining shares, which would guarantee her a steady ie every year.


    Shepard, recognizing exactly what Keira was after, answered, ¡°Shares? Sandra won¡¯t receive any for the time being. When I pass away, my shares will be divided among all my children. Sandra will inherit her portion then.¡±


    ¡°What? That¡¯s uneptable! The shares must be given to her now! She¡¯s also a member of the Harper family¡ªwhy should she be treated differently?¡± Keira shouted.


    Keira nced toward the entrance of the house. It had been a while. Why hadn¡¯t the reporters arrived yet?


    She scanned the room and caught the cold expressions on every Harper family member¡¯s face. Giselle, who hadn¡¯t said a word all day, was staring at her with unsettling calm.


    It struck her then that no matter how hard she fought, she could never stand against the Harper family.


    Your favorite tales live at g?ln¦Ò¦Í????s£®??????


    Her gaze dropped to the check for eleven million resting in her hand. For a second, she felt tempted to rip it apart. However, she knew that if she did that, even the ten million inpensation from the Harper family might slip through her fingers.


    She regretted not taking the one hundred million when it was first offered. Why had she been so greedy as to demand two billion? She had only overestimated herself.


    ¡°Are you going to take it, or do you want to walk away with nothing?¡± Brenna¡¯s voice cut through the silence, sharp and cold. ¡°Make up your mind now.¡±


    Ethan spoke up, his tone filled with disdain. ¡°The Harper family has already shown generosity. They acknowledged your hardship of raising a child and offered youpensation. You should learn to appreciate what¡¯s given to you. Do you think the Harpers are fools who¡¯ll give you whatever you demand? You want shares in the Harper Group and think they¡¯ll just hand them over? Stop dreaming.¡±


    It was only then that Keira realized how delusional she had been. Desperation and regret filled her. She turned to Sandra and said, ¡°What should I do now? I sent you here so you could live well, so that you could help me¡ª¡±


    The words caught in her throat when she remembered the camera pinned to Julia¡¯s cor. She dared not continue. Across from her, Julia shifted slightly, making sure the lens stayed fixed on Keira.


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    .<fnfb0c> Th?s chapter is updated by find{n}ovel</fnfb0c>


    .

 Chapter 1422

    ?Chapter 1422:


    Sandra, however, understood exactly what Keira meant. She was more clearheaded than her mother. ¡°Mom, take the money. If you stop gambling, this will be enough to cover your needs for the rest of your life. You can rent a ce¡ª¡±<fn25da> Latest content published on f¦É?dn¦Ïvel</fn25da>


    Keira interjected, ¡°Why should I have¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­to rent a ce? I raised such an outstanding daughter for the Harper family. Shouldn¡¯t they provide me with housing?¡±


    She then turned pleading eyes on Shepard. ¡°Mr. Harper, your family owns so many houses. Couldn¡¯t you spare one for me, so I won¡¯t end up on the streets?¡±


    Shepard¡¯s expression darkened with anger, but before he could speak, Brenna gave him a look to stop him. She stepped forward and said sharply, ¡°Ms. Evans, my investigation showed you were thrown out by your ex-husband after the divorce and have been renting ever since. You never changed your ways. You kept gambling, even taking your daughter¡¯s sry for it, until you couldn¡¯t even feed yourself. That is why you came here for money, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    After a pause, she continued, ¡°To be clear, you have nothing to do with my father. Where you live is not our concern. We¡¯ve already offered you eleven million. That¡¯s enough for you to rent a big house. Don¡¯t push your luck. Our money isn¡¯t lying around for you to take. You won¡¯t get another cent from us. You should leave now.¡±


    Unwilling to give up, Keira turned to her daughter. ¡°Sandra, I can¡¯t bear to leave you. Don¡¯t stay here. Why don¡¯t youe back with me? That way, you won¡¯t be bullied by the Harper family. Let your father give you some pocket money each month, and we can live freely.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s gaze lingered on the splendor around her: the grand house, the designer dresses draped over Brenna, Giselle, and Lilith, the glittering nes at their necks, and the beautiful rings sparkling on their fingers. If she stayed, all of this could be hers. A life of luxury was within reach. If she left, she would be stuck with a small allowance each month, and her mother would just gamble it away. She wanted no part of that.


    ¡°No, Mom. I want to stay. I¡¯m the Harper family¡¯s daughter. I¡¯ve already been deprived of so much, and I refuse to let that happen again. If I stay here, Dad can help me with my career. I might even open my own studio. Don¡¯t worry, Mom. When Dad gives me pocket money, I¡¯ll share some with you.¡±


    Read more at g??lnovel s.??????


    Keira, shrewd as ever, caught the meaning behind her daughter¡¯s words¡ªSandra no longer wanted her around. Rage surged. She raised her hand and pped Sandra across the face. ¡°Ungrateful girl! You want to cast me aside? Let me tell you, I raised you, and I can make your life miserable¡ª¡±


    Sandra reeled from the sudden blow, but her shock quickly turned into fury. ¡°How am I ungrateful? Since the day I started working, every cent of my earnings has gone to you, only¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­for you to gamble it all away. I¡¯ve done my duty as your daughter. I¡¯ve treated you well, and I¡¯ve done more than enough for you. Just leave. Don¡¯t evere looking for me again. From now on, the only family I recognize is my father!¡±


    ¡°You ungrateful brat!¡± Keira raised her fist to strike Sandra.


    Darrell stepped in at once, seizing Keira¡¯s arm mid-swing. ¡°You¡¯ve already gotten what you came for. Leave now and don¡¯t return. Next time, we won¡¯t be this lenient.¡±


    He escorted her out of the residentialpound, where the reporters she had tipped off were already gathered. They crowded the entrance, restrained only by the security guards.


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1423

    ?Chapter 1423:


    ¡°Look at this! The Harper family is treating me unjustly!¡± cried Keira, wrenching herself from Darrell¡¯s grip as she turned to the reporters.


    The blinding bursts of cameras lit up the scene, capturing her every move.


    One of the reporters, a man in the front, leaned forward and asked, ¡°Ms. Evans, is it true that you lost money gambling and came here to demand payment from the Harper family?¡±


    ¡°Ridiculous! Who told you that?¡± snapped Keira, her eyes catching on the electronic screen at the entrance, where the scene inside the Harper family¡¯s residence had been broadcasting.


    The feed vanished the moment she noticed it. Only then did she realize just how ruthless the Harper family could be.


    ¡°Ms. Evans, since you already took eleven million dors from the Harper family, how will you be using it? Are you nning to gamble again?¡±


    ¡°Once that money is gone, will you return to demand even more from the Harper family?¡±


    ¡°Out of my way!¡± barked Keira, shoving past the reporters before bolting from the crowd.


    Meanwhile, tension filled the Harper family¡¯s residence. Sandra stood among the gathered rtives, her chest tight with dread that they might throw her out as well. Atst, her eyesnded on Shepard.


    She said, ¡°Dad, I am nothing like my mother. I¡¯m not chasing after wealth. All I want is to belong to this family for real. Please don¡¯t misunderstand my intentions.¡±


    The sharp stares of the Harper family bore into her, making her feel uneasy.


    Shepard¡¯s face grew stern. Guilt toward his wife weighed heavily on him, and he could not bring himself to meet Giselle¡¯s eyes. At the same time, he also refused to give Sandra even a shred of recognition.


    Atst, Giselle broke the silence, her tone cool. ¡°Sandra, isn¡¯t it? You¡¯ll take the room beside Brenna¡¯s. If you require anything, speak with Julia, the housekeeper.¡±


    See full story at g???????¦Í???????co??


    Julia moved forward with a polite nod. ¡°Miss Sandra Harper, I am in charge of the household. Whatever you need, let me know, and I¡¯ll see what can be arranged from the storeroom.¡±


    At that moment, Sandra understood she was not wee here. The family¡¯s indifference cut deeper than words, making her feel like nothing more than an outsider.


    ¡°Alright,¡± Sandra agreed quietly, though in truth she had been hoping for a monthly allowance. Although she worked, she only earned twenty thousand a month, and even that was taken away by Keira. Her job overseas meant staying far from the Harper family, and she was unwilling to let go of the chance to remain close to them. To her, being a Harper carried far more weight than the work she had been doing.


    ¡°Dad, I¡¯ve been thinking of leaving my current job. Would it be possible for me to join the Harper Group?¡± she asked carefully.


    Shepard¡¯s patience snapped, his mood already sour. ¡°Absolutely not. You studied fashion design, and the Harper Group has no connection to that field. Go look for employment elsewhere.¡±


    .


    .<fn6ec9> For original chapters go to Find~Novel</fn6ec9>


    .

 Chapter 1424

    ?Chapter 1424:


    The rejection stung. Sandra realized that they might allow her to live under their roof, but they had no intention of offering any help to her. Her heart sank with disappointment. Moisture blurred her vision as she thought bitterly. Was she only wee to eat their meals and sleep in their home, without a single advantage beyond that?


    She said, ¡°Dad, I¡¯m running out of money. Could you at least give me a small allowance? I promise I won¡¯t ask for much¡ª¡±


    Before Sandra could finish speaking, Giselle cut her off with a scornfulugh, saying, ¡°You¡¯re no different from your mother, here only to ask for money. I¡¯ll make this in for you. When my children were still studying, we gave them pocket money. It wasn¡¯t a fortune¡ªonly a hundred thousand a month. But once they graduated, that support ended. Sandra, you ought to follow their example and earn for yourself. None of my childrenes asking me for money anymore. In fact, they even buy me gifts asionally.¡±


    The words pierced Sandra, and though she wanted to argue, she swallowed the protest. Her teeth sank into her lip as she fought against the tears burning in her eyes. ¡°I understand.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s better. Now go to your room. If you require anything, speak with the housekeeper.¡±


    Sandra trailed behind Julia up to the third floor.


    The room she was led into had once been Rosie¡¯s, and it had stood empty ever since her departure.<fn67c1> Latest content published on find?novel</fn67c1>


    ¡°This used to belong to Miss Rosie Harper,¡± Julia exined. ¡°She was the wife of Prince Maxley of Plieca, but not long ago, she was assassinated. If you don¡¯t mind, you may use everything left here¡ªclothes, cosmetics, whatever you like. Otherwise, I¡¯ll arrange for it all to be thrown away.¡±


    She then swung open the wardrobe doors.


    Sandra¡¯s eyes widened. Rows of elegant garments filled the space, many of them untouched. To her surprise, several still bore their price tags, and the styles were nothing short of exquisite.


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    She lifted a few tags and was stunned to discover that every piece matched her size perfectly.


    A dilemma gnawed at her. If she epted these, it would appear as though she was settling for what someone else had left behind, as if she were only worthy of secondhand things. Yet refusing them meant relying on her own money to buy luxury clothes, and she was broke. Right now, she couldn¡¯t afford even the simplest item here, much less an entire wardrobe of high-end pieces.


    ¡°Keep them. It would be a waste to discard such fine clothes,¡± Sandra said after a pause. ¡°Leave the ones with tags, but remove the rest.¡±


    When her eyes shifted toward Julia, she caught a fleeting trace of contempt. The realization stung¡ªhow could even a housekeeper dare to look down on her?


    Frustration red, and she snapped, ¡°What¡¯s with that look? Do you think I¡¯m beneath you?¡±


    Julia straightened instantly, her tone turning deferential. Though Sandra was unwanted by the Harper family, Julia understood her own ce. As a servant, she had no right to show scorn toward Sandra.


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 Chapter 1425

    ?Chapter 1425:


    ¡°I would never, Miss Sandra Harper. There are also some cosmetics here that you might want to see.¡± Julia guided Sandra into the bathroom. The room was wide and polished,plete with a vanity table set aside for personal care. Beside it stood a cab stocked full of untouched skincare bottles, makeup kits, and beauty tools, all carrying the marks of world-famous brands.


    As a fashion designer, Sandra was well-versed in style and trends. The Harper wealth was undeniable, and she resolved to stay and prove herself, refusing to let Keira pull her down.


    ¡°Keep them all. Throwing them away would be a shame,¡± Sandra said.


    Julia cast her a nce filled with quiet disdain. To her, Sandra was pitiful, clinging even to someone else¡¯s castoffs. She probably didn¡¯t even have more money than her. Calling for two servants, Julia directed them briskly. Together, they cleared out the closet of every used dress and emptied the cab of its shoes.


    When the servants were gone, Sandra turned her attention to inspecting the room on her own. None of the shoes was her size, which felt like such a waste. Each pair carried a luxurybel, some priced in the tens of thousands, even reaching into the hundreds. She had never once worn shoes of that value before.


    She would still need to purchase her own shoes, and if she chose anything cheap, the Harper family would surely sneer at her. What should she do? More than anything, she longed to make a strong impression and im the respect of the Harper family.


    Slipping into the high-end dresses from the wardrobe, she found they fit her perfectly. The moment she looked at herself, she could see the difference¡ªher whole presence felt transformed. After finishing her makeup, she gazed into the mirror and felt convinced she finally looked the part of a Harper. Only her shoes spoiled the picture, a ring w against the elegance she tried to uphold.


    In the living room, the Harper family sat together, but the air was heavy. None of them seemed cheerful¡ªleast of all Giselle, who now had to ept the unwee truth that her husband¡¯s illegitimate child would be a part of their lives from now on.


    Rising to his feet, Shepard spoke with gentle persuasion. ¡°It¡¯s settled now. Don¡¯t let this upset you. If she bothers you, you don¡¯t have to talk to her. And if it bes unbearable for¡±


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    ¡°You, I will give her a house and let her move out.¡± Though his words carried sincerity, Giselle could only suppress a bitter thought. They had just publicly acknowledged Sandra, and sending her away so soon would paint the Harpers as cruel. That would tarnish not only the Harper family¡¯s standing but also her own carefully built reputation.


    ¡°Let¡¯s set the matter aside for now and talk about it again in a few years,¡± she said.


    At that moment, Ernst and Lilith rose from their seats. ¡°We¡¯re heading out for work.¡±


    Giselle gave a small nod before saying, ¡°I¡¯ll go to the office, too.¡±


    Remaining in the house held no appeal for her.


    As Giselle prepared to leave, Brenna walked over and whispered gently, ¡°Mom, you¡¯ve been treated unfairly.¡±


    A hollow ache settled in Giselle¡¯s chest. The ce she had once called home now felt unfamiliar, almost foreign to her.


    .


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    .<fnf24d> Fresh chapters posted on f?ndnovel</fnf24d>

 Chapter 1426

    ?Chapter 1426:


    . . .


    After dinner, Brenna and Giselle retreated upstairs to rest.


    Fresh from her shower, Brenna heard a knock at her door. Opening it, she was surprised to see Sandra standing there, looking uneasy in ill-fitting slippers.


    ¡°Do you need something?¡± Brenna asked.


    Sandra shifted awkwardly. ¡°Brenna, I don¡¯t have money for new shoes, and the ones in my room are too small. May I ask your shoe size? Maybe you could lend me a pair?¡±


    Brenna was struck by Sandra¡¯s courage, admitting her financial struggles without flinching despite the risk of mockery. Even Sandra¡¯s clothes were Rosie¡¯s cast-offs, yet she wore them withoutint. While Brenna found this notable, she knew that if word got out, rumors might spread that the Harper family was mistreating Sandra.


    ¡°I¡¯m a size six,¡± Brenna said, reluctantly sharing the detail despite her difort about someone else wearing her shoes.<fn14c1> Follow current nov?ls on find?novel</fn14c1>


    Sandra¡¯s face lit up. Brenna was the first Harper to treat her with any courtesy, free of scorn. ¡°Perfect! That¡¯s also my size. I don¡¯t have any money with me and only brought one pair of shoes. Could you lend me a pair?¡±


    ¡°Come in and pick a few for yourself,¡± Brenna replied, her face neutral, leading Sandra to her walk-in closet.


    Rows of shoes, over a hundred pairs in every style, lined the shelves, outnumbering even Rosie¡¯s collection. There were at least eight pairs of slippers alone. Brenna selected several unworn pairs, including two pairs of slippers, and set them on the floor. ¡°Take these. They¡¯re unused.¡±


    ¡°Thank you!¡± Sandra said, her gratitude genuine. She admired Brenna¡¯s taste; each pairplemented her existing wardrobe perfectly. ¡°Once I earn money, I¡¯ll buy you some new shoes.¡±


    ¡°No need for that,¡± Brenna said coolly. ¡°I have more clothes and shoes than I can wear.¡±


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    It wasn¡¯t that she wanted to help Sandra. She just thought that ignoring Sandra¡¯s needs could lead her to bother Giselle or Shepard, upsetting them¡ªespecially her mother. She also wanted to avoid gossip about the Harper family mistreating Sandra.


    ¡°I will take you shopping for clothes this weekend. You can stop wearing Rosie¡¯s clothes then.¡±


    Sandra flushed, slightly embarrassed but touched by Brenna¡¯s gesture. ¡°Rosie¡¯s clothes are good; they¡¯re brand new with tags. I work in fashion, so I know they¡¯re expensive. It would be a waste to toss them away. I¡¯m happy to wear them.¡±


    Brenna gave a faint hum, then handed Sandra a few bags. Sandra, arms full, returned to her room.


    She looked at the shoes and bags, deeply pleased. She had never owned such high-end items while living with Keira. The items¡¯bined value was in the millions, yet Brenna had parted with them effortlessly. Sandra feltpelled to repay her.


    Just then, her phone buzzed, interrupting her thoughts. It was Keira calling. Sandra ignored the call, letting the screen glow unanswered. But her phone rang again within minutes, forcing her to pick up.


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 Chapter 1427

    ?Chapter 1427:


    ¡°How is it going? Are the Harpers treating you well?¡± Keira¡¯s voice was eager,ced with the tter of a card game in the background. ¡°How much pocket money did they give you?¡±


    Sandra was fully aware that once Keira had money, she would gamble it away and thene to her asking for more.


    ¡°Money, money, money! That¡¯s all you think about! Mom, can¡¯t you quit gambling? Eleven million is enough for you to livefortably forever. But if you keep gambling, you will lose it all,¡± Sandra snapped, exasperated.


    Keira brushed her words off. ¡°Don¡¯t curse my luck. I¡¯m on a hot streak¡ªwon several rounds already. Now tell me, how much did they give you?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t get any money at all. They said Harper children don¡¯t get pocket money after they¡¯ve grown up.¡± Sandra felt the Harper family¡¯s cold attitude toward her. They were fully aware that she didn¡¯t have any money but still offered her nothing.


    ¡°What? Not a single penny?¡± Keira¡¯s tone sharpened. ¡°You¡¯re not lying to keep the money from me, are you?¡±<fn3c3d> This update is avable on f?ndnovel</fn3c3d>


    Sandra¡¯s voice crackled with frustration as she snapped, ¡°You took eleven million already. Isn¡¯t that enough?¡± With that, she abruptly ended the call.


    Keira stared at the dead line, her irritation spilling over as she turned to the ones who were ying cards with her. ¡°Can you believe her? Barely a day with the Harper family, and she¡¯s already bold enough to hang up on me, acting like I¡¯m some nuisance despite everything I¡¯ve done for her. Without me, would she be living this cushy life?¡±


    One of the women at the table shrugged. ¡°Why let it get to you? Money¡¯s what counts. When ites to family, don¡¯t stress too much. As you get older, cash is more dependable than kin.¡±


    Another woman nodded in agreement. ¡°Exactly. When you have money, your kids wille running. Without it, they won¡¯t even nce your way.¡±


    Keira let out a heavy sigh. ¡°You¡¯re right. Back when I had ways to pull in money, my daughter was on the phone with me constantly, doing whatever I asked. Now that she¡¯s a Harper, she has tossed me aside.¡±


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    ¡°You¡¯re being too hard on her. She¡¯s barely settled into that family, and you¡¯re already hitting her up for cash. No wonder she¡¯s upset.¡±


    Keira scoffed, her tone sharp. ¡°So now I¡¯m supposed to tiptoe around her moods?¡±


    ¡°Of course,¡± one replied. ¡°What did you expect?¡±


    Sandra, brushing Keira from her thoughts, slipped into the shoes Brenna had gifted her, trying them on with various outfits and studying her reflection in the mirror. She looked stunning in everything. The only problem was that she didn¡¯t have any money.


    A soft sigh escaped her lips. Squeezing money out of the Harper family was no easy feat. Her needs for food, drink, and essentials were met, but the absence of money in her hands gnawed at her.


    After mulling it over, Sandra resolved to ask Shepard tomorrow about securing a job at the Harper Group. But then she recalled his earlier stance¡ªhe didn¡¯t want her working there. As a neer to the family, she decided not to stir up trouble so soon.


    The next morning, after sharing breakfast with the family, Sandra grabbed her bag and stepped out.


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 Chapter 1428

    ?Chapter 1428:


    As Brenna drove out of the residential area, she spotted Sandra strolling along the road and pulled over. ¡°Where are you off to?¡± she asked, her tone probing, wary of any potential trouble Sandra might cause.


    ¡°Brenna, I¡¯m job hunting,¡± Sandra replied. ¡°I¡¯m done with working abroad¡ªit¡¯s too far, and the pay¡¯s not worth it. I¡¯m aiming for a fashion designer role here in Shirie.¡±


    Brenna nodded. ¡°Good luck. If you need any help, just let me know.¡±


    She noted that Sandra hadn¡¯t leaned on their parents for a job, which was a thoughtful move. Despite the family¡¯s fleet of cars, Sandra hadn¡¯t demanded any, signaling her intent not to cause trouble.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Sandra said sincerely, her eyes briefly lingering on Brenna¡¯s sleek luxury car. She yearned for one of her own, but she knew the Harpers wouldn¡¯t hand her a car anytime soon, so she held back from pushing her luck. ¡°My teacher¡¯s a globally renowned designer, so finding a job shouldn¡¯t be too tough. But if I hit a snag, I¡¯ll definitely reach out.¡±


    At thepany, Lorna handed Brenna an invitation, her voiceced with disdain. ¡°Can you believe Gracie had the audacity to send you this?¡±


    Brenna nced at the invitation. Gracie wanted to have coffee with her in the afternoon.


    ¡°Not interested.¡± With military tests passed and the first batch of robotic dogs ted for production, Brenna¡¯s afternoon was booked for a factory visit. Coffee with Gracie was thest thing on her mind.


    ¡°I¡¯ll decline for you,¡± Lorna said. ¡°Mr. Atkinson stopped by a couple of days ago, asking when you¡¯d be free. He has news about Hector.¡±


    ¡°I see. I¡¯ll call him myselfter,¡± Brenna replied. ¡°Could you ask Greta toe to my office?¡±


    Momentster, Greta stepped into the office. ¡°Ms. Harper, you wanted to see me?¡±


    ¡°Please, take a seat,¡± Brenna said, cutting to the chase. ¡°Your mother and mine have been close for years, and I¡¯ve seen your talent firsthand. Our business in Plieca is expanding fast, and we need a regional manager there. Are you interested in the role?¡±


    g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s©qc??m has it all


    Greta hesitated, caught off guard by the offer. Thepany¡¯s middle management had been buzzing for days about who would snag the Plieca regional manager role.


    ¡°I¡¯ve always focused on individual operations,¡± she admitted. ¡°I don¡¯t have much experience in management.¡±


    . . .


    Brenna said, ¡°You should seriously consider this opportunity. I know your business acumen is top-notch, and our mothers share such a tight bond. Plus, the Regional General Manager positiones with a hefty annual sry of a million dors, not to mention bonuses andmissions. You could easily pocket two million dors a year¡ªleaps and bounds above what you¡¯re earning now.¡±


    She knew Greta¡¯s managerial prowess didn¡¯t quite measure up to Joe¡¯s or Tommy¡¯s. Those two were better suited for the role, but Vand¡¯s bustling operations relied heavily on their presence; they couldn¡¯t go abroad now.


    Greta felt quite tempted. ¡°I will think about this carefully,¡± she said. ¡°I¡¯ll give you my decision tomorrow.¡±


    Brenna nodded, her expression warm but resolute. ¡°The role isn¡¯t too daunting, honestly. The branch office managers handle the nitty-gritty details. You would mainly be summarizing reports and keeping things on track. For any major projects that feel like uncharted waters, I¡¯m just a call away. Chances like this don¡¯te knocking often¡ªif you pass it up, who knows when the next one will roll around?¡±<fnc50a> Content originallyes from Find~Novel</fnc50a>


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 Chapter 1429

    ?Chapter 1429:


    Greta gave a thoughtful nod. ¡°I understand.¡±


    ¡°Take your time to consider this,¡± Brenna said. ¡°If you say yes, you¡¯ll need to start the role next week.¡±


    Back at her desk, Greta was greeted by a flurry of curious nces from her colleagues, eager to know what she had talked about with Brenna. She brushed them off with a casual smile. ¡°Oh, it was nothing big¡ªjust a chat about thetest robotic arm orders.¡±


    Her coworkers crowded closer, their curiosity bubbling over.


    ¡°I was half-expecting Ms. Harper to name you team leader,¡± one male colleague said, exhaling with visible relief.


    Thepany¡¯s headquarters on the 58th floor was in the midst of a major reshuffle, being divided into five groups, each with its own leader. Ambitious whispers filled the air as everyone vied for a shot at the coveted roles.


    ¡°You¡¯ve got a real shot at it, Greta,¡± a female colleague said, her tone encouraging but tinged with skepticism.


    Greta¡¯s rapport with her coworkers was lukewarm at best. Her past attempts to win over Ethan were no secret, and the office gossip mill hadn¡¯t been kind. Most assumed Brenna would never consider Greta for a team leader role, let alone the prestigious Regional General Manager position.


    When Greta had been summoned earlier, hushed spections had rippled through the office. But her breezy exnation upon returning calmed their nerves.


    As Greta slipped away to the restroom, the male colleague leaned in, his voice low. ¡°She offended the CEO by trying to steal her man. She¡¯s lucky she wasn¡¯t fired. She¡¯ll never get promoted. She should just prepare to stay in her engineer position for life.¡±


    The female colleague smirked. ¡°If I were the CEO, I would have fired her a long time ago.¡±


    She then turned to Lorna, who was nearby, fishing for details. ¡°Ms. Turner, what did the CEO want with Greta earlier? Spill the tea!¡±


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    Lorna let out a softugh, deflecting with ease. ¡°Honestly, I¡¯m in the dark. The CEO just asked me to fetch her and didn¡¯t drop any hints. I can¡¯t exactly pry, can I?¡± The female colleague raised an eyebrow, unconvinced but unable to push further.


    In the evening, Brenna strolled into her home to find Shepard already loungingfortably. ¡°Dad, you¡¯re back early again,¡± she teased. ¡°Are you really gearing up to retire?¡±


    Shepard chuckled, his eyes twinkling. ¡°You bet. Otherwise, your mom will use me of breaking my promise to her.¡±


    Giselle shot him a yful side-eye. ¡°I never said that.¡±


    As they chatted, Sandra returned home, her voice bright as she greeted them. Shepard greeted her with a subtle nod, his face expressionless, while Giselle¡¯s expression remained frosty, her silence speaking volumes. Brenna asked, ¡°How is the job hunt going, Sandra?¡±


    Sandra¡¯s eyes sparkled with excitement. ¡°Inded one! A designer role at Trendy Apparel, pulling in thirty thousand dors a month.¡±


    Beaming, she added, ¡°I didn¡¯t even mention being a Harper. I justid out my experience and dropped my mentor¡¯s name, and they hired me!¡±


    .


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    .<fndf53> Content originallyes from find[?]ovel</fndf53>

 Chapter 1430

    ?Chapter 1430:


    A faint smile cracked Shepard¡¯s stoic demeanor. ¡°Well done. If you work hard in the future, the Harper Group will provide some resources for you.¡± Giselle¡¯s gaze softened, a flicker of surprise crossing her face. She hadn¡¯t expected Sandra to show such professional promise.


    ¡°Congrats!¡± Brenna said, her smile warm. ¡°Trendy Apparel¡¯s a big name in women¡¯s fashion. They¡¯ve got promising prospects.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s joy bubbled over. ¡°Thanks, Brenna! It¡¯s an amazingpany. Thirty thousand is just the starting point¡ªthere are bonuses,missions, and a year-end bonus, too. My boss said if I do my job well, I could easily clear a million dors a year.¡±


    At dinner, Brenna couldn¡¯t help but notice Giselle¡¯s chilly demeanor toward her. Giselle barely acknowledged her, casting asional sharp nces her way.


    Sensing the need to clear the air, Brenna decided to address the issue head-on. After the meal, she gently knocked on Giselle¡¯s door and slipped into her room.


    The television flickered in the background, but Giselle sat on the couch, lost in her thoughts, her gaze far from the screen. Only when the door creaked open did she nce up, letting out a soft huff of anger.


    ¡°Mom, are you upset with me?¡± Brenna asked, settling beside her and yfully tugging at her arm.


    Giselle shot her a sidelong nce, her voice tinged with frustration. ¡°You knew I would be upset. And still, you were so nice to Sandra.¡±


    Brenna, with a calm smile, replied, ¡°Mom, I wasn¡¯t being nice to her.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°Oh? Giving her bags and shoes isn¡¯t being nice to her?¡±


    ¡°Those were things I never cared for,¡± Brenna exined patiently. ¡°I bought them on a whim and never used them. If she is fine with hand-me-downs, why let them gather dust? Besides, if she steps out looking like a mess, it¡¯ll tarnish our family¡¯s name. This whole situation with Sandra has be the talk of Shirie. We have to protect our reputation.¡±


    Though Giselle couldn¡¯t argue with Brenna¡¯s reasoning, a shadow of difort still lingered in her heart.


    Feel the magic on g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s


    ¡°Don¡¯t be upset,¡± Brenna continued gently. ¡°Sandra found a job today, all on her own, without any help from me. She didn¡¯t stir up trouble or ask Dad for a dime. Honestly, she is more levelheaded than her mother ever was.¡±


    Brenna also shared how she had crossed paths with Sandra that morning in their neighborhood.


    Giselle softened slightly, admitting, ¡°You did the right thing. I just can¡¯t stand her. Even if she does nothing wrong, her mere presence grates on me. From now on, please, don¡¯t show kindness to her in front of me.¡±


    ¡°Of course, Mom,¡± Brenna replied warmly. ¡°You¡¯re my number one. How could I ever take an outsider¡¯s side over yours?¡±


    She then handed Giselle a delicate gift bag. ¡°I got you a little something. Take a 100k.¡±


    Giselle opened the bag to reveal a sleek ck velvet box, cradling a pair of exquisite pearl earrings.<fnab0d> Th? link to the orig?n of this information r?sts ?n F¦Énd£Îovel</fnab0d>


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 Chapter 1431

    ?Chapter 1431:


    Brenna helped her wear them, and as Giselle admired her reflection in the mirror, a genuine smile bloomed on her face. ¡°They¡¯re beautiful,¡± she said. ¡°You always know how to lift my spirits. Your father has been so annoyingtely, always saying that he probably should give Sandra some money. I told him not to do it.¡±


    Brenna chuckled, her voice soothing. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Mom. I won¡¯t give her any money, either. She won¡¯t get money from our family. She is not your daughter¡ªwhy should we open our wallets for her?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s words melted Giselle¡¯s frustration, easing her fear that Brenna might be siding with an outsider.


    As she left Giselle¡¯s room, Brenna found Sandra lingering by her own room, looking slightly awkward with aptop in her hands.


    ¡°Brenna, the housekeeper mentioned you¡¯re a whiz withputers,¡± Sandra said hesitantly. ¡°I was hoping you could check mine. I got itst year, but it¡¯s already acting up.¡±


    Brenna nced at theptop¡ªa sleek, pricey model, likely worth a small fortune.


    ¡°Come in,¡± she said, gesturing Sandra inside.


    Sandra ced theptop on the table and noticed Brenna¡¯sputer with a design draft on the screen, resembling a robot.


    ¡°Did you design that?¡± she asked, intrigued.


    Brenna nodded and turned her attention to Sandra¡¯sptop. With a few swift clicks, she resolved the issue in under two minutes.


    ¡°It was a virus,¡± she exined. ¡°Your design drafts in theputer could¡¯ve been stolen already.¡±<fnbf0a> Read full story at Find1Novel</fnbf0a>


    Realizing Sandra wasn¡¯t fishing for a handout or a new device, Brenna felt her impression of Sandra improving.


    Sandra¡¯s face fell. ¡°Those drafts were years of my work¡­¡±


    Seeing her distress, Brenna felt a pang of sympathy. ¡°I¡¯ll set you up with a firewall¡ªthe same one I use. It¡¯s top-notch. Your future work won¡¯t be stolen.¡±


    ???????? ???????????????? ???????? g???????¦Í?????????????


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Sandra said, her voice tinged with gratitude. ¡°Luckily, I wasn¡¯t nning to use those designs anyway. My mentor said that since I left her studio, everything I created there belongs to her.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s brow furrowed. ¡°Does she own the rights to all your previous work?¡± She double-checked with Sandra.


    Sandra answered, ¡°Yes, all the designers at her studio sign those contracts. It¡¯s no big deal, so I just let it slide.¡±


    Brenna found the use unfair, but since Sandra seemed unbothered, she chose not to press the issue.


    ¡°Fine, but steer clear of signing such unfair contracts in the future,¡± Brenna advised. She then sent the firewall file from herputer to Sandra¡¯s. Within ten minutes, it was installed.


    She also set up facial recognition to secure Sandra¡¯sptop, ensuring only Sandra could unlock it even if someone had the password.


    ¡°There,¡± Brenna said. ¡°Yourputer¡¯s now protected from most viruses, and no one can mess with it.¡±


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 Chapter 1432

    ?Chapter 1432:


    Sandra¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Thank you, Brenna! I¡¯ve never seen aputer unlock with a facial scan before. You¡¯re incredibly talented. Did you code this program yourself?¡± She was genuinely impressed¡ªBrenna wasn¡¯t just some pampered heiress; she had real skill.


    Brenna gave a nod. ¡°Just something I put together.¡±


    Sandra hesitated, wondering if Brenna¡¯s casual tone meant the firewall was subpar. But the facial recognition tech seemed cutting-edge, and she didn¡¯t dare question Brenna further.


    Just then, Brenna¡¯s phone buzzed. She nced at the screen¡ªGracie was calling. She stared at her phone for a moment before picking up the call.


    Gracie, much like Rosie, was a master of maniption, hiding a cunning nature behind an innocent facade.


    ¡°What do you want?¡± Brenna asked, her tone icy, making it clear she had no patience for Gracie.


    Noticing Brenna¡¯s focus shift, Sandra quietly took herptop and slipped out, softly shutting the door behind her.


    Gracie cut to the chase. ¡°Miss Harper, why did you turn down my invitation?¡±


    Brenna shot back, ¡°I have nothing to talk about with you.¡±


    Gracieid out her pitch. ¡°Rosie mentioned some matters about you and Ethan to me several times. I thought you¡¯d want to hear about them. Plus, I was just named Vice President of the Chapman Group yesterday. I¡¯m inviting a few friends from Plomond to celebrate, and I¡¯d love for you toe.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s response was curt. ¡°Congrats on the promotion, but I¡¯m not interested in having a meal with you.¡±


    Though Gracie didn¡¯t spell it out, Brenna knew she wasn¡¯t one for nostalgic chats or spilling Rosie¡¯s old schemes. Besides, with Rosie gone, Brenna had no desire to dredge up her past maneuvers.<fncf36> This text is hosted at Find_Novel(.</fncf36>


    Gracie pressed on, undeterred. ¡°Don¡¯t you want to know if Rosie left any surprises for you?¡±


    Brenna ignored her words and ended the call. She wasn¡¯t naive¡ªGracie was a schemer, and her invitation was far from innocent. Even though she rejected her this time, Gracie would not give up easily until she got what she wanted.


    When Sandra was back in her room, her phone rang. It was Keira calling.


    ¡°Sandra, get it,¡± Keira began. ¡°The Harpers don¡¯t care for you, and I see how hard it is for you to live there. I won¡¯t ask you for money for now. My friend¡¯s taking me to And; there¡¯s a new casino in Wrestead. They say the odds there are good, and I¡¯m going to check the ce out.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s heart sank, panic rising. ¡°Mom, no! You can¡¯t go. Casinos always win. You¡¯ve gambled for years; have you evere out ahead? You¡¯ve burned through a hundred million inpensation in just a few years. Now that you finally have some money, please don¡¯t throw it away. I¡¯m begging you!¡±


    Sandra¡¯s mind raced, regretting how she¡¯d trusted Keira¡¯s promise before joining the Harpers¡ªthat she¡¯d quit gambling and save the money. Keira had even sworn she¡¯d cut off her own hand if she gambled again.


    ¡°Oh, rx,¡± Keira said. ¡°My luck¡¯s been hottely¡ªI¡¯ve won over a hundred thousand. My friends say with luck like this, I should try a world-ss casino and rake in a fortune. Then we wouldn¡¯t need the Harpers at all.¡±


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 Chapter 1433

    ?Chapter 1433:


    ¡°I can¡¯t talk any longer¡ªI need to catch my flight.¡± With a cheerful heart, Keira ended the call.


    Sandra clutched her phone, seething with frustration. She could already picture Keira, swept away by her gambling obsession, drowning in a sea of debts she could never repay.


    Desperate, Sandra dialed again, and Keira picked up almost instantly. ¡°Mom, don¡¯t go!¡± Sandra said, her voice sharp with urgency. ¡°If you step foot in that casino and lose everything, don¡¯te running to me for help. I won¡¯t give you a dime!¡±


    Keira, unfazed, let out a carefree chuckle. ¡°Oh, Sandra, I¡¯m on a winning streak! My luck has been goldentely, and I¡¯m certain I¡¯ll return with a fortune tost a lifetime. I don¡¯t need your money.¡±<fn6421> Th?s chapter is updated by Find¡ïNovel</fn6421>


    Sandra¡¯s hands trembled with rage as the faint sound of an airport announcement echoed on Keira¡¯s end, urging passengers to board.


    ¡°Don¡¯t boast too soon!¡± she snapped. ¡°If you end up broke and buried in debt, don¡¯t expect me to help you. I won¡¯t pay a cent of your gambling losses!¡±


    Keira¡¯s tone turned icy. ¡°You ungrateful brat! After all I¡¯ve done, pouring my heart and soul into raising you, giving you every opportunity to seed, how can you be so cold? Do you even realize how much I¡¯ve sacrificed for you?¡± With that, she hung up, turning to her friend, Corinna Chadwick, with a huff,ining about Sandra.


    Corinna, ever the loyalpanion, offered a warm smile. ¡°Keira, we¡¯ve been friends for ages, and I¡¯ve always admired your bold spirit. When you set your mind to something, you charge forward. Don¡¯t mind Sandra. With the lucky streak you¡¯re on, you¡¯re bound to hit the jackpot. Once you¡¯re rolling in riches, your daughter wille to you with an apology.¡±


    Sandra tried calling again, but Keira¡¯s phone was already switched off. Even if she raced to the airport now, she knew it would still be toote to stop her mother.


    The next morning, Brenna was riding to work with Ethan when she spotted a familiar figure at the entrance to their upscale residentialplex.


    It was Ruby, d in a drab gray tracksuit. Her hair was a tangled, silver mess, and her shoulders slumped with defeat as she pleaded with a security guard. ¡°Please, let me in,¡± she begged, her voice trembling. ¡°My daughter lives here. I¡¯m penniless and homeless. If she doesn¡¯t help me, I¡¯ll starve to death.¡±


    ???????????? ????????: ?????????¦Í????????©q??????


    The security guard eyed Ruby with contempt. Her cheap, threadbare clothes¡ªworth less than a hundred dors¡ªstood out starkly against the opulence of BayJiew Apartments.


    ¡°Get lost!¡± he barked. ¡°This ce is for the elite. The people who live here would never have a rtive like you! If you were here to scavenge trash, I might believe you. But looking for your daughter? That is augh! If your daughter were rich, would you be in this sorry state?¡± With a harsh shove, he pushed her away.


    ¡°I used to have wealth!¡± she eximed, her voice breaking. ¡°But my family fell apart. My adopted daughter, Brenna Harper, lives here.¡±


    The security guard wasn¡¯t moved. Dragging Ruby away, he sneered, ¡°Get out, or I¡¯m calling the cops!¡±


    Ruby copsed to the ground, tears streaming down her face. ¡°My son got hooked on drugs and sold my house,¡± she sobbed. ¡°I have nowhere left to go now. Please¡­¡±


    No matter how desperately she pleaded, the security guard refused to relent, already reaching for his phone to summon the police.


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 Chapter 1434

    ?Chapter 1434:


    Terrified of being arrested, Ruby had no choice but to leave the gatedmunity, her heart heavy with desperation. After some thought, she decided to go to Brenna¡¯s workce, hoping to find her there.


    Brenna turned her gaze away, her face a mask of ice. Ethan, beside her, gently squeezed her hand and murmured, ¡°She has brought this upon herself.¡±


    Ruby¡¯s stomach churned with hunger, growling loudly as she trudged along the road toward Brenna¡¯spany. Penniless, she couldn¡¯t even afford to pay her phone bill. She considered reaching out to Isabe, but her phone was long out of service, leaving her stranded.


    In the distance, Ruby spotted a man offering a woman a small, palm-sized birthday cake and a single rose. The woman only scoffed, tossing both into a nearby trash bin without a second thought. Driven by hunger, Ruby hurried over, fished the cake from the garbage, and wolfed it down.


    As she walked toward Brenna¡¯spany, she scavenged for scraps along the way, her resolve hardening. No matter what it took¡ªbegging or pleading¡ªshe was determined to get money from Brenna or convince her to take her in.


    The journey from Bayview Apartments to Shirie¡¯s towering Mitchell Group Tower stretched a grueling forty kilometers. By car, it was a swift thirty-minute trip, but for Ruby, who could only walk, it was an endless ordeal. Age had sapped her strength, forcing her to pause often to rest after short stretches of walking. Kind strangers along the way offered her bread and two bottles of mineral water, small mercies that kept her going.


    By the time she reached the Mitchell Group Tower, it was past four in the afternoon, with just over an hour before the workday ended. Her legs, heavy as if cast in lead, buckled beneath her as she looked at the building. She stumbled into the lobby.


    The sleek, modern d¨¦cor¡ªsprawling, with polished floors gleaming under soft lights¡ªevoked memories of the Barrett Group¡¯s offices in their prime. Back then, she had been a privileged person, gliding through life in chauffeured cars, oblivious to the trash bins lining the streets. Now, her gaze lingered on them, wondering if a wealthy passerby might have discarded something of worth.


    The contrast felt surreal. Just then, a voice snapped her back to the present. Meeting the young, poised receptionist¡¯s eyes, Ruby forced a weary, cating smile.


    Step into fiction with g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s???o??


    ¡°Hello, how may I assist you?¡± the receptionist asked.


    Ruby sank onto a lobby sofa, mustering her strength before speaking. Chastened by her experience at Bayview Apartments, she avoided mentioning her role as Brenna¡¯s foster mother to dodge suspicions of deceit.


    ¡°I¡¯m a rtive of Ms. Harper,¡± she said, her voice soft. ¡°I need to speak with her about something urgent. Could you call her toe down or escort me to her?¡±


    Her disheveled hair, weathered skin, and threadbare clothes painted a picture of hardship. Katie Howe, the receptionist, upheld the polished courtesy of a top-tier firm and replied politely, ¡°Please wait here a moment. I¡¯ll contact Ms. Harper.¡± She handed Ruby a bottle of water before stepping away to make the call. Momentster, Katie returned with a gentle smile. ¡°Ma¡¯am, Ms. Harper says you may go up. Ms. Turner will escort you to her office.¡±


    ¡°Please wait here.¡± Relief flooded Ruby, and tears welled in her eyes. Brenna was truly willing to see her. Her emotions surged as she recalled a desperate call to Isabe days ago, before her phone was cut off and her home was lost. She had begged Isabe for seven thousand to cover heating and property fees.


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    .<fncebf> ?????? ???? Find¡ïNovel</fncebf>

 Chapter 1435

    ?Chapter 1435:


    But Isabe had told her she didn¡¯t have any money and refused her. Ruby had pleaded, exining she was scraping by on recycling earnings, only for Mack to seize her money. Her situation was dire. However, Isabe had insisted she was equally broke.


    Ruby seethed. Isabe pulled in tens of thousands every month, yet she balked at parting with a mere few thousand?


    She called Isabe ungrateful, and Isabe cut the line without hesitation. When she tried again, Isabe refused to take her call. With no other options, Ruby swallowed her pride to seek Brenna¡¯s aid.


    Tears streamed down Ruby¡¯s face, and Katie offered quietfort to her.


    Soon, Lorna stepped out of the elevator and walked over. ¡°I¡¯m Ms. Harper¡¯s secretary. Follow me,¡± Lorna said to Ruby, her tone t, her expression devoid of warmth.


    Ruby¡¯s heart sank. The secretary¡¯s frostiness hinted at Brenna¡¯s likely cold demeanor. She resolved to tread carefully, appealing to Brenna¡¯spassion without sparking conflict.


    ¡°Alright, thank you,¡± Ruby said, trailing Lorna into the elevator.


    The pristine, luxurious interior made her shrink back, uneasy. She retreated to a corner and asked softly, ¡°Is Ms. Harper doing well?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s fine,¡± Lorna replied, her response clipped and dismissive.


    When they reached the fifty-eighth floor, everyone turned to look at them.


    ¡°Wait here,¡± Lorna said to Ruby. ¡°I¡¯ll inform Ms. Harper.¡±<fn1113> Readplete version only at findnovel</fn1113>


    Ruby stood outside Brenna¡¯s office, watching the flurry of employees nearby, her heart heavy with nostalgia. The Barrett Group had oncemanded apany just as vibrant.


    Inside her office, Brenna was deep in conversation with Greta about the promotion to Regional General Manager in Plieca.


    Greta said, ¡°Ms. Harper, I¡¯ve made up my mind. I¡¯m ready to take on the challenge.¡±


    stepped hesitantly into the office. Her eyes fell on Brenna, seated behind the wide executive desk. The poise and authority she radiated made Ruby feel unbearably small.


    ¡°Brenna.¡± The name broke from Ruby in a sob before she could string together another word. She moved toward the chair across from Brenna but could not bring herself to sit.


    Brenna regarded her with a detached expression, reclining in her chair.


    Though Ruby¡¯s heart twisted with sorrow, she did not beg outright for money or a ce to live. Instead, she turned her distress into me, directing it toward her two children.


    ¡°They¡¯re both ungrateful. Isabe used to be so close to me. She told me everything, even letting me handle her earnings. We had such a good rtionship. But ever since she moved to Plomond, I¡¯ve barely seen her. Most of the time, she ignores my calls. Recently, the property manager came demanding payment for property management and heating, totaling seven thousand dors. You know I¡¯ve been scraping by, collecting recybles to sell. I can¡¯t possibly save that kind of money. When I turned to Isabe for help, she just yelled at me¡­¡±


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 Chapter 1436

    ?Chapter 1436:


    Brenna listened in silence. Isabe hadn¡¯t mentioned any of this, so it came as news to her. Still, Brenna knew Ruby¡¯s hardship was of her own making. She didn¡¯t deserve any sympathy.


    ¡°So, you are here to ask me for money?¡± Brenna asked, her tone cold and t.


    Ruby¡¯s chest tightened, panic shing in her eyes. She could tell Brenna had no intention of helping her. Yet she also dared not show impatience or direct herints at Brenna.


    Her sobs deepened. ¡°No, I¡¯m not here for money. The property and heating fees don¡¯t matter anymore. Mack¡ªmy useless son¡ªsold my house. I don¡¯t even have a roof over my head now. Brenna, please, have mercy. I only want a ce to stay, so I won¡¯t be left sleeping on the street.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s brow lifted in surprise. ¡°Mack sold your house?¡±


    Ruby nodded. ¡°Yes. I cared for him so much before, and look how he treats me now? He spent all his money on drugs and even resorted to robbery. Yesterday, he sold my house. I tried desperately to stop him, but he wouldn¡¯t listen and even beat me up. Brenna, if I weren¡¯t at my wits¡¯ end, I wouldn¡¯t havee to you. Please, find me a ce to live. I don¡¯t need anything fancy; any ce will do.¡±


    Though her tears seemed genuine, Brenna remained unmoved, unwilling to lift a hand to help.


    When Ruby sensed that cold indifference from Brenna, unease crept into her chest. She circled the desk and dropped to her knees in front of Brenna.


    ¡°Brenna, I know Alex and I wronged you when you lived with us. We kept you from school, forced you to sketch designs, cook meals, and scrub floors. We were cruel, and we used you shamelessly. I¡¯vee to beg for your forgiveness.¡±


    She broke down in tears as she continued, ¡°You see, your father got what he deserved, didn¡¯t he? He suffered endlessly before he died. And Mack¡ªthat scoundrel¡ªhe once bullied you, yet look at him now. I watched him stagger home beaten, ribs broken, unable to move for days. He couldn¡¯t even go to a hospital because he had no money. We¡¯ve all paid for our sins. I make a living by collecting garbage and selling it. Isn¡¯t that punishment enough? Brenna, have mercy. Even if you let me live in the shabbiest corner of the city, I¡¯d be grateful.¡±


    Stay tuned galnov??????.co??


    Her tearful eyes clung to Brenna, full of desperate hope.<fn6a8a> Fresh chapters posted on FindN()vel</fn6a8a>


    For a moment, Brenna felt her bitterness of years begin to ease. ¡°So you finally admit how unfair you were to me? You ept that this is your retribution?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Ruby answered without hesitation. ¡°Everything we¡¯ve endured is karma. We were never good people. We never deserved riches. Brenna, please don¡¯t hold a grudge against us. You survived. Your real parents cherish you, and you¡¯ve found an extraordinary fianc¨¦. I truly wish you happiness. All I ask is a ce to stay until I die. I don¡¯t need your money; I can keep selling scraps to live. Now, I can¡¯t afford a house or to pay rent¡­¡±


    Brenna studied Ruby closely. She was weeping uncontrobly, dressed in threadbare clothes that spoke of poverty. Up close, her face bore the marks of hardship, and her hands¡ªonce soft¡ªnow looked rough.


    There was no denying she had suffered. Her manner today was also far humbler than Mack¡¯s had been when he came here.


    ¡°So you¡¯re saying you don¡¯t care about the house itself, only that it keeps you from being homeless?¡± Brenna asked, wary that Ruby might be feigning misery to ask for a better house.


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 Chapter 1437

    ?Chapter 1437:


    But Ruby shook her head fiercely, tears streaking her cheeks. ¡°Yes. As long as it keeps me sheltered, I¡¯ll be content. I¡¯m not asking for more. Brenna, I¡¯m already thankful that you¡¯re willing to help me at all.¡±


    ¡°Very well. It seems you¡¯ve trulye to understand your faults. For the years you did care for me, I¡¯ll see to it you¡¯re not left homeless. I¡¯ll arrange for you to have a rental, and I¡¯ll provide five hundred dors each month for food. That will be enough to get by.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Brenna. You¡¯re still so considerate and kind.¡± Ruby let out a long sigh, her thoughts circling back to her downfall. When the Barrett Group thrived, she would have scoffed at five hundred dors. Now, she wept bitterly over her ruined fortune.


    Brenna pressed a button on her desk phone and called Lorna inside. ¡°Find a modest ce and rent it for her.¡±


    Lorna¡¯s eyes lingered on Ruby; she was puzzled by the sight of the shabby, aging woman. Why would Brenna meet her alone, and why was she weeping so openly in Brenna¡¯s presence?


    Though she couldn¡¯t piece together the exact connection between Brenna and the woman, one thing was clear¡ªBrenna held no fondness for the woman. If Brenna truly cared for her, she wouldn¡¯t have spoken of renting a modest ce. She would have arranged for the woman to live in one of her own properties.


    ¡°Understood, Ms. Harper. I¡¯ll take her to find a ce now,¡± Lorna said smoothly. Skilled in reading people, she had already decided to secure a shabby rental for Ruby.


    Ruby lingered, shifting awkwardly as she stalled for time. Finally, she lowered her voice and spoke with hesitation. ¡°Brenna, I don¡¯t have a single cent left. I can¡¯t even pay my phone bill. Could you spare me a little cash? Not much¡ªjust enough to cover some food and drink for a few days, and to buy daily necessities.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t that Ruby didn¡¯t wish for more, nor that Brenna didn¡¯t have the money for it. It was just that she knew Brenna wouldn¡¯t help her further.


    Brenna gave a curt nod, drew a few bills from her bag, andid them t on the desk.


    ?????? ???????? ????????????????: g??????¦Í?????????????


    Ruby stepped forward, gathered them up, and felt the thinness between her fingers¡ªno more than a thousand at most.<fn90d1> For original chapters go to F?nd-Novel</fn90d1>


    ¡°Thank you, Brenna,¡± she murmured, tears spilling anew as she followed Lorna out of the office.


    The moment they stepped out, Lorna nced at Ruby curiously. ¡°Are you Ms. Harper¡¯s foster mother?¡±


    Whispers of Brenna¡¯s past had circted among the staff, so when Ruby appeared, employees stole nces, quietly specting about who she might be.


    After getting inside the elevator, Ruby gave a soft reply. ¡°Yes.¡±


    At once, Lorna pieced things together. She now knew exactly what kind of ce to rent for Ruby, whether to provide daily necessities, and at what cost. A rough n had already formed in her mind.


    Ruby, however, grew uneasy. She stole nces at Lorna, catching the faint trace of disdain in her eyes. The 100k made her chest tighten, and she suddenly felt at a loss for words.


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 Chapter 1438

    ?Chapter 1438:


    Breaking the silence, Lorna asked, ¡°What sort of ce do you want to live in?¡± Lorna wanted to test Ruby¡ªwould she grow greedy, knowing Brenna was wealthy, and try to use her rtionship with Brenna to demand more?


    Ruby said, ¡°I¡¯ll settle for something simple, miss. I¡¯m not particr. After all, I failed Brenna before. How could I still have the audacity to livefortably? A fine home doesn¡¯t suit someone like me¡­¡±


    With a cold tone, Lorna said, ¡°I see.¡±


    She pulled out her phone and began scrolling through listings of shabby apartments.


    Ruby spoke under her breath, grieving over her ungrateful children. Her son had drained her retirement savings and sold the house she had once owned. Her daughter had stopped visiting long ago, and when she finally gathered the courage to ask her daughter for help, she was tly denied.


    The story left Lorna quietly shocked. This elderly woman¡¯s life was full of misery. Still, she could not help but think it was retribution for her past mistakes. Once, she had treated Brenna cruelly. Now, it seemed like a stroke of mercy that Brenna still offered her shelter at all.


    A taxi slowed to the curb as Lorna raised her hand, tugging Ruby inside with her. The ride carried them through streets lined with aging houses. Their search led them to a crowded quarter where families packed into small homes, and tucked among them was a room for rent advertised online. The listing promised little: bare cement floors, whitewashed walls, and a single bed beside a small table. Nothing more.


    The monthly rent was three hundred dors.


    ¡°This should work,¡± said Lorna, pulling out her phone to confirm with the agent. When they reached the area, the reality was harsher than expected. Cars couldn¡¯t fit through the narrow alleys here, forcing them to walk the rest of the way.


    Inside the courtyard, doors lined the walls on every side¡ªfour along the north, three to the east, and three more to the west. More than twenty people shared the crampedpound. The bathroom and kitchen weremunal, and the restroom was usable at best.


    1@?€$? ¡é#4??€?$ 1? g??novels.c?m


    Lorna¡¯s nose wrinkled. ¡°Well, what do you think of this ce?¡± she asked Ruby.


    Ruby¡¯s expression soured. In the past, she had lived in a sprawling house under the Barrett name. Even after their family¡¯s bankruptcy, she managed to livefortably in Isabe¡¯s ce. Later, after Isabe forced her out, she still ended up in a clean, tidy apartment. Now, staring at the cracked walls and crowded space, she realized how far she had fallen.


    She had assumed Brenna, no matter her dislike, would at least provide her with something halfway respectable.


    Ruby¡¯s voice came out low, uncertain. ¡°Isn¡¯t this a little too shabby?¡±


    Lorna shot her a sharp look. ¡°Stop whining. Other people survive here, so you can, too. If you want a better ce, pay for it yourself. Rent a house for all I care, but don¡¯t expect Ms. Harper to cover it.¡±<fn5d63> Th?s chapter is updated by Find1Novel</fn5d63>


    Ruby pushed the door open with a heavy sigh. The room barely stretched ten square meters, the air stale and the corners caked with dust. Nothing about it looked weing.


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 Chapter 1439

    ?Chapter 1439:


    While she checked out the room, Lorna settled the payment with the agent and returned holding a set of keys.


    ¡°I¡¯ve already covered six months of rent for you,¡± she said briskly. ¡°Clean the ce yourself.¡±


    Not waiting for Ruby to speak, she turned on her heel and walked away. Back at the office, Lorna reported the situation to Brenna and sent her the photos of the room she had taken.


    Brenna gave Lorna money for the rent without hesitation.


    ¡°You handled the situation well,¡± Brenna said with a faint smile, sliding open her drawer to reveal a gift box of expensive skincare Darwin had given her days before. She ced it on the desk. ¡°You can have this.¡±


    Lorna¡¯s eyes lit up as she epted it. ¡°Thank you, Ms. Harper.¡±<fn2c4f> This text is hosted at Find~Novel</fn2c4f>


    Once Lorna left, Brenna leaned back in her chair, scrolling through the photos one more time. The sight of the cramped space satisfied her more than she had expected.


    By seven that evening, Sandra returned home from work. She immediately sensed something different¡ªthe air carried a new presence. At the dining room entrance, she nearly stumbled when she saw Dalton. She recognized him as the famous star.


    Hands buried in his pockets, he leaned casually against the doorframe, his gaze narrowing on her with a trace of hostility.


    ¡°You¡¯re¡­¡± Sandra¡¯s words faltered. She had heard whispers of Brenna¡¯s younger brother but had never seen a photo of him. She hadn¡¯t expected him to be Dalton.


    Dalton had been away from home for weeks, buried in the filming of a major project. Once it wrapped up, he wasted no timeing back, determined to get a good look at this so-called illegitimate sister he had heard so much about.


    His eyes locked on the woman before him. ¡°You must be Sandra.¡± His voice carried a chill.


    ¡°That¡¯s me! Are you really my brother?¡± Sandra¡¯s face lit with excitement, her voice brimming with disbelief. The idea that her idol, the award-winning actor, was her brother felt like a dream.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Dalton gave a short nod. His gaze swept over her, noting her carefully styled outfit, the gleam of her handbag, and the pricey shoes on her feet. For someone who had been here only days, she already looked like she belonged here. He disliked her.


    Sandra stepped closer, her enthusiasm bubbling over. ¡°I can¡¯t believe this. My favorite star is my brother. We should definitely spend more time together. Don¡¯t you think?¡±


    Dalton¡¯s expression hardened. ¡°I don¡¯t think so.¡±


    Caught off guard, Sandra froze under the weight of his stare. When she realized his eyes lingered on her handbag, her smile faltered. ¡°It¡¯s not what you think,¡± she said quickly. ¡°My bag and clothes belonged to Rosie, and Brenna gave me these shoes.¡±


    Dalton¡¯s stern demeanor softened ever so slightly at Sandra¡¯s words. He believed she seemed alright, not overly materialistic or vain. Yet, he couldn¡¯t shake the nagging worry that her wearing hand-me-downs might cast a shadow on the Harper family¡¯s reputation. Gossip could spread like wildfire, inviting mockery. With a subtle nod, he resolved to keep a closer eye on her. If she proved herself decent, he might just slip her a bit of pocket money.


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 Chapter 1440

    Chapter 1440:


    Sandra, meanwhile, clung to a flicker of hope that Dalton might show her some kindness and give her some money. Her expectant eyes locked onto his, lingering in a silent plea, but his hands never strayed toward his wallet. Disappointment washed over her like a cold wave. Save for Brenna¡¯s gentle warmth, the other Harper family members seemed to view her as just an outsider. Dalton refused to embrace her as his sister, his attitude as frosty as a winter¡¯s dawn.


    Feeling the pang of hunger, Sandra drifted toward the kitchen. Without a penny to her name, dining out was not an option, so she relied on homemade meals. The meals she brought to work were so exquisite that her colleagues¡¯ eyes gleamed with envy. But only she knew how pitiful her life really was.


    Her resolve hardened; she needed to find a way to earn some money. Otherwise, she couldn¡¯t even afford life¡¯s small necessities. Resentment toward the Harper family simmered within her, their coldness making her feel like a stranger at home. Were it not for the title of being a member of the Harper family, she would have left without a backward nce. Yet, she held fast to the belief that enduring this storm would lead to brighter days, once she won their eptance.


    In the kitchen, Sandra scrounged for something to eat. Dalton trailed in behind her, grabbing a c from the fridge.


    ¡°My teacher is quite the big name,¡± Sandra said, her voice tinged with pride. ¡°And I¡¯ve got a knack for design.¡± She dreaded the thought of Dalton dismissing her as ordinary, unworthy of notice.


    Dalton¡¯s response came with a raised brow. ¡°Why don¡¯t you whip up a set of costumes for my show? I¡¯ll pay you.¡±


    His tone carried a faint whiff of condescension, as if he doubted Sandra¡¯s talent. Truth be told, his performance outfits were already covered by sponsors, but he was curious to test her skills.


    ¡°Sure,¡± Sandra replied, catching the sting of his patronizing air. She knew he must be testing her. ¡°No need for payment. I¡¯m your sister¡ªhow could I charge you for something like this?¡±


    Dalton gave a curt nod. ¡°Alright, I won¡¯t argue with that.¡±


    ?????????? ???????? ???????? ???????????? ¡ª ????????????: ????????????????©q??????<fn7749> Discover more novels at f?i?n?d?n?o?v?e?l?</fn7749>


    In that fleeting moment, Sandra¡¯s admiration for Dalton crumbled. To her, he was no longer the dazzling star, but a stingy person she could barely stand. That evening, Dalton¡¯s return home prompted Ernst to cancel his ns and join the family for dinner, arriving with Lilith in tow. The couple dove into lively chatter with Dalton the moment they arrived, their words flowing, while Sandra was ignored.


    Sandra¡¯s heart ached at their indifference.


    As the family gathered around the dinner table,ughter and stories filled the air. Dalton regaled them with juicy tidbits from the entertainment world, while Lilith and Brenna nned a weekend shopping spree. No one spoke to Sandra.


    She sensed that all her efforts to gain their approval had been wasted, for their hearts stayed cold and unyielding.


    After the family dinner, Sandra slipped away to her bedroom, her heart heavy with disappointment. She gently shut the door, letting the forced smile she had worn to charm the Harper family fade atst. Even when no one spared her a nce, she feltpelled to keep up the cheerful fa?ade, but now, in the quiet of her room, she could finally let it go.


    Even the household staff cast disdainful nces her way, their eyes glinting with judgment as they whispered behind her back, as if she were beneath them. This set her blood boiling


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    Message from Noah: Tomorrow there will be new chapters dear readers. God loves you and Noah wishes you all the best. (?O?=)? ?


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 Chapter 1441

    ?Chapter 1441:


    The grand wee banquet she had been daydreaming about¡ªthe one that would usher her into the upper-ss world¡ªhad vanished from conversation like a forgotten promise. She was certain now: the Harper family had no intention of presenting her to high society or helping her find a ce among their elite circle.


    Slumped on the plush sofa, Sandra surrendered to the weight of her thoughts, tears tracing silent paths down her cheeks.


    At the stroke of ten, a sharp knock sounded at the door. Fresh from a shower, Sandra opened it to find Cecily Swain, a servant in her thirties, standing there in a crisp uniform, hair pulled back in a bun. Her eyes gleamed with a subtle mix of contempt and haughtiness, and she held a ss of warm milk in her hand.


    ¡°Miss, your bedtime milk,¡± Cecily said, her voice clipped.


    Sandra¡¯s mind swirled with questions she longed to voice. Cecily¡¯s lofty demeanor made her feel as though their roles had been reversed¡ªas if the servant were the true member of the Harper family, and Sandra the lowly outsider.


    ¡°Come in,¡± Sandra said softly, stepping aside.


    Cecily gently ced the milk on the polished coffee table, her movements graceful as she prepared to slip away after that.


    ¡°Hold on a moment, Cecily¡­¡± Sandra¡¯s voice, warm yet tinged with familiarity, stopped her. She knew Cecily¡¯s name; she delivered milk to her room every night.


    Sandra¡¯s voice faltered. Once, she had been the shining prot¨¦g¨¦e of a celebrated fashion designer, her creationsuded without the need to seek anyone¡¯s approval. Yet now, she found herself trying to tter a servant, a humbling shift that left her heart heavy with bitterness.


    From the vanity¡¯s treasure trove, Sandra retrieved a sleek box of face masks and offered it to Cecily. ¡°Take this, please. I have more than I could ever use before they expire.¡±


    The cab brimmed with neatly stacked face masks. Rosie had once made it a ritual to use one every single day, going through them quickly, so she had kept a generous supply on hand.


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    These were no ordinary masks¡ªeach one worth a small fortune, with a single sheet costing hundreds and a box of five soaring into the thousands. Sandra chose the least expensive box to share.


    Cecily¡¯s face lit up with a radiant smile as she epted the gift, her demeanor softening. ¡°Miss, feel free to ask me anything you want.¡±<fnbd07> Updates are released by find?novel</fnbd07>


    ¡°How much wealth does Brenna truly possess?¡± Sandra¡¯s curiosity burned.


    Cecily shook her head gently. ¡°I don¡¯t know the exact figure, but her parents shower her with a regr allowance, and her brothers slip her generous sums as well. She holds shares in both the Mitchell Group and the Harper Group, and rumor has it she earns a tidy sum from her own ventures. I would wager her personal wealth stretches into the billions.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s eyes widened, a cascade of surprise washing over her. She had suspected Brenna¡¯s wealth and her stake in the Harper Group, but shares in the Mitchell Group? That was a revtion she hadn¡¯t anticipated.


    ¡°Were the Mitchell Group shares a gift from Mr. Mitchell?¡± Sandra pressed, her voice tinged with intrigue.


    Cecily shook her head again, uncertain. ¡°I¡¯m not privy to the details, but I¡¯ve heard those shares were a gift from Mr. Harper.¡±


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 Chapter 1442

    ?Chapter 1442:


    A quiet pang of envy stirred in Sandra¡¯s chest. Brenna¡¯s life seemed a golden tapestry, woven with wealth and opportunity beyond imagination. If only she could im such abundance.


    ¡°Did Mr. and Mrs. Harper give Brenna any property?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Of course! When Miss Brenna Harper came back, her parents and brothers showered her with valuable gifts. Everyone witnessed it¡ªthere was an entire stack of property deeds.¡± Cecily¡¯s voice held a subtle thrill as she spoke.


    Sandra fought to keep her emotions in check, her heart heavy with longing. The stark contrast between her and Brenna stung deeply. It made sense that Giselle, Ernst, and Dalton, who weren¡¯t bound to her by blood, offered her no tokens of affection. But Shepard was her father¡ªwhy didn¡¯t he give her anything? Did this mean he deemed her unworthy of being his daughter? The thought gnawed at her, leaving her cloaked in sadness.<fne492> This content belongs to F?nd-Novel</fne492>


    Determined to understand more about the family, Sandra asked Cecily a flurry of questions about the Harpers. Once her curiosity was sated, she slipped a luxurious skincare set from the storage cab and handed it to Cecily. ¡°Please don¡¯t tell anyone about our conversation today.¡±


    Cecily nodded with a knowing smile, epting the gift. ¡°Don¡¯t worry; I know what to share and what to keep secret.¡±


    Gazing at the cab brimming with high-end skincare treasures, Sandra made a bold choice. She plucked another set, nning to sell it discreetly for some extra pocket money.


    The next morning, Sandra swapped her usual bag for a roomy tote, carefully tucking two small, pristine handbags inside. These were Rosie¡¯s purchases, untouched with tags still attached, promising a handsome price if sold¡ªperhaps eighty percent of their original value.


    At the office, Sandra quietly confided in two colleagues about selling the bags. The colleagues found the pieces too expensive and rmended she try her luck at a boutique. Heeding their advice, Sandra visited a chic boutique.


    The store clerk meticulously examined the items, confirming their authenticity. ¡°Miss, we can offer sixty percent of the boutique price for these,¡± the clerk said.


    Sandra shook her head, standing her ground. ¡°These are authentic, brand-new, never touched. I won¡¯t settle for less than eighty percent.¡±


    After a spirited haggle, Sandra triumphed, selling the two bags and the skincare set for a tidy sum of three hundred and seventy thousand dors.


    As she nced at her boosted bank bnce, a sigh escaped her lips. Earning enough to buy such luxuries would have taken years of toil for her. Her resolve hardened. She was determined to integrate into the Harper family and embrace a life of opulence.


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    Sandra felt happy today and splurged on a meal. The moment she stepped into that swanky restaurant, she ordered the priciest steak, some foie gras she could barely pronounce, and a lineup of fancy dishes she¡¯d only ever seen on TV. She finished it off with a dainty cake and let herself enjoy two sses of good red wine, running up a bill that crossed the ten-thousand-dor mark. A rush of satisfaction washed over her. Atst, she could taste the life she used to dream about as a little girl, where money was never a worry.


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 Chapter 1443

    ?Chapter 1443:


    Dropping that much cash on a meal without batting an eye made her feel like she finally belonged in the world of the rich.


    Still, she stopped herself from buying anything shy¡ªno designer clothes, no high-end bags. If the Harper family saw her buy new things, they would ask how she had gotten the money. She decided she¡¯d keep her little celebration under the radar. At least for now, she wouldn¡¯t bring home any expensive items.


    But she still wanted to reward herself with something. When she passed by a beauty salon, she stepped inside. Without a second thought, she booked the most exclusive treatment they offered, dropping another ten grand on a luxury facial she¡¯d always secretly wanted but never dared try.


    When evening came and she finally made it back to her room, Sandra began rummaging through the valuables left behind by Rosie. To her amazement, there was a treasure trove waiting for her¡ªjewelry from Rosie, including jade bangles, pink pearl earrings, and a variety of glittering trinkets. Three nes caught her eye, delicate and unique, but no matter how much she searched online, she couldn¡¯t find any information about them.


    The collection didn¡¯t end there. She sifted through a pile of bracelets and anklets, though she didn¡¯t know whether they were worth something or not. All these items had belonged to Rosie, collected over the years but hardly ever worn. Some, Sandra realized, were even from the royal family of Plieca.


    Staring at the jewelry covering her table, Sandra couldn¡¯t help but wonder how much it would all be worth if she ever decided to sell. The idea of cashing in was tempting, but selling these items all at once was risky; if the Harper family discovered what she did, she would be in trouble. Sandra decided it was best¡­<fn59ab> Newest update provided by f?ndnovel</fn59ab>


    Not to sell them for now, especially since she still had some money. Besides, things would be much easier for her once she was truly epted by the Harper family.


    On top of the jewelry, Rosie had left behind a mountain of handbags¡ªluxury brands lined up on her bed, each more extravagant than thest, and not a single one valued at less than fifty thousand.


    Luck finally seemed to be swinging Sandra¡¯s way.


    As she admired her secret stash, her phone started buzzing, snapping her out of her thoughts. One nce at her phone revealed Keira¡¯s name, and with her spirits still riding high, Sandra answered the call.


    Keira¡¯s shaky voice broke through, soft and soaked with tears. ¡°Sandra? Are you busy right now?¡±


    A pause hung in the air, heavy with something unsaid.


    Memories of Keira¡¯s recent gambling escapades surfaced, and Sandra¡¯s good mood evaporated. Her gaze swept over the jewelry and bags in her room, and worry crept in. Would she end up selling her treasures to bail Keira out this time?


    Sandra¡¯s tone turned sharp. ¡°Let me guess. You¡¯ve lost money, haven¡¯t you?¡±


    Keira¡¯s answer came with a fresh wave of sobbing. ¡°A couple of days ago, things were going so well. I actually won hundreds of thousands! But then I went abroad, and just like that, I lost eleven million in a few hours. I don¡¯t even have the money to get back home. Please, Sandra, you have to help me. I¡¯m desperate.¡±


    Before Sandra could reply, Corinna¡¯s voice echoed on Keira¡¯s end, cool and casual in the background. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Keira. The casino will give you a loan if you ask. Your luck could turn any minute.¡±


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 Chapter 1444

    ?Chapter 1444:


    ¡°Really?¡± Keira sniffled, her mood shifting in an instant. ¡°You¡¯re right¡­ Sandra, never mind. I can dig myself out of this. Just a few more games, and I¡¯ll get all my money back.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s patience snapped. ¡°Absolutely not! You¡¯ve gambled away everything before, and now you think the casino¡¯s going to just hand you a win?¡±


    ¡°I need to hang up now. I¡¯m off to see if I can get a loan,¡± Keira muttered, then ended the call without another word.<fn9c10> ???? ????s? ???????s ?? f?i?n?d?n?o?v?e?l?</fn9c10>


    Corinna said to her, ¡°Your daughter¡¯s just going to try and stop you, so turn your phone off. Give yourself a real chance to win big!¡±


    Deep down, Keira knew the odds were against her, but that tiny ember of hope kept burning. Maybe, just maybe, her luck was about to change.


    Sandra copsed onto the plush sofa, her spirit crushed under an unbearable weight. With her face cradled in her trembling hands, tears streamed down her cheeks in a silent torrent of despair.


    She couldn¡¯t endure the sting of Keira squandering eleven million in mere hours. The loss was a gut punch, leaving her breathless and defeated. How could fate deal her such a cruel hand? To be tethered to a mother whose heart beat for the thrill of gambling was a burden too heavy to bear.


    Her soul ached with the misfortune of it all. Desperately, she dialed Keira¡¯s number, her fingers shaking with each attempt, only to be met with the cold, robotic voice: ¡°The number you have dialed is currently unavable¡­¡±


    Her calls went unanswered. She knew Keira was likely spiraling deeper into her reckless bets. The thought made her stomach churn.


    Keira might assume Sandra¡¯s newfound ties to the affluent Harper family would cushion her losses. But Sandra knew better¡ªthe Harpers¡¯ wealth wasn¡¯t hers to im.


    The sting of having such an oblivious mother, one who traded a life of ease for the fleeting rush of the casino, cut deeply. In her darkest moments, Sandra wished she could erase Keira from her life entirely.


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    Fury bubbling over, Sandra fired off a scathing text to Keira: ¡°If you¡¯ve lost money, don¡¯te to me. The Harper family hasn¡¯t given me a single cent, nor have they epted me. Even if disaster struck, they wouldn¡¯t lift a finger to help me. From this moment on, I no longer recognize you as my mother¡ªso don¡¯t evere looking for me again.¡±


    The more Sandra dwelled on it, the hotter her anger burned. She had just sold something for money, and Keira had lost a lot more.


    Having a mother like Keira felt like a life sentence to chaos. No matter how hard Sandra tried, her dreams of a better life seemed forever out of reach.


    To secure her ce among the Harper family and the promise of a brighter future, Sandra knew she had to cut Keira out of her life for good. It was the only way forward.


    Her fingers flew across the phone, sending a barrage of messages, each oneced with her pain. After the texts were sent, she broke down in tears. She felt she was so unlucky.


    Her n to ask Dalton for an autographed photo the next day now seemed trivial, her enthusiasm snuffed out by the weight of her troubles.


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 Chapter 1445

    ?Chapter 1445:


    In a fit of frustration, Sandra packed away the expensive items and copsed onto her bed. Tears soaked her pillow as she cried herself into an exhausted, dreamless sleep.


    The next morning, she gazed into the mirror, her reflection a stranger with swollen, red-rimmed eyes. She looked like a shadow of herself, drained and broken. Sheyered on heavy makeup, hoping to mask the evidence of her sorrow, but when she joined the Harper family for breakfast, they still noticed it.


    Seated beside Brenna, with Shepard and Giselle across the table, Sandra kept her eyes glued to her te. Dalton was taking a nap, not needing to go to work today. With her head bowed, Sandra ate in silence.


    Shepard¡¯s sharp gaze flickered toward her, concern etching his features. ¡°Have you been crying?¡± he asked gently, his voice carrying a warmth Sandra hadn¡¯t expected.


    It was the first time her biological father had shown her such care, and it stirred something deep within her. Believing this was a promising beginning, Sandra resolved not to tell Shepard about Keira¡¯s situation, fearing that it might ruin this moment.


    ¡°Just something in my eye,¡± she lied, her voice barely steady.


    But her tears betrayed her, spilling over just as Keira¡¯s name shed across her phone. Sandra¡¯s heart sank. She silenced the call and blocked the number.


    Shepard, wise and perceptive, saw through Sandra¡¯s flimsy excuse. ¡°Come on, Sandra. What¡¯s troubling you?¡± he asked, his tone soft but insistent.


    Sandra¡¯s emotions overwhelmed her, and herposure crumbled as fresh tears fell. Giselle, however, bristled with impatience. Barely a week had passed, and already Sandra had gotten herself in trouble. Was she angling to exploit the Harper family¡¯s wealth and influence so soon?


    To Giselle, Sandra was as sly as a fox, her cunning nature woven into every calcted move. Giselle cast a cold nce at Shepard, not wanting him to meddle in trivial matters. She believed letting Sandra live here was already enough. This child, born out of wedlock, had no right to expect further favors from the Harper family¡¯s storied legacy.


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    Brenna just savored her meal in silence.


    After some time, Sandra¡¯s storm of emotions settled, and she found her voice. ¡°Dad, my mother is caught in the gambling web again. She squandered the eleven million you gave her and is still rolling the dice. I pleaded with her to use that fortune to carve out afortable life¡ªeleven million could cradle her for a lifetime. But she ignored my words and fled overseas to gamble. I¡¯m at my wits¡¯ end; I am unable to stop her¡­¡±<fn7c0c> Checktest chapters at F¦Énd£Îovel</fn7c0c>


    Shepard let out a derisive huff. ¡°People don¡¯t change. Do you want to help her?¡±


    Sandra¡¯s heart plummeted at his words. Was Shepard washing his hands of the matter? Should she continue to y the victim and beg Shepard to help her mother? Torn between frustration and duty, Sandra seethed at the Harper family¡¯s icy detachment. How could they turn such a cold shoulder when her mother had gifted them a daughter?


    Sandra shot a nce at Giselle, who red at her with nothing but contempt. Her eyes then drifted to Brenna, who sat quietly at the table, eating as if nothing was happening.


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 Chapter 1446

    ?Chapter 1446:


    It was obvious that the Harper family had no intention of getting involved.


    After a quick moment of thought, Sandra braced herself. She dabbed her tears away, her voice turning firm. ¡°I won¡¯t step in. If I bail her out now, she¡¯ll just keep gambling, expecting me to clean up her mess every time. How long are we supposed to keep shielding her from the consequences? Dad, I¡¯m not helping her. It would be better if she were gone.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s gaze hardened as she fixed her eyes on Sandra. She believed Sandra was cruel to her mother. After all, the casino wasn¡¯t a ce for mercy. Those who failed to pay their debts often suffered brutal consequences, sometimes even losing their limbs. Sandra would ditch her mother just to keep her status in the Harper family. Just how heartless could she be? For enough money, she¡¯d probably sink even lower one day. Still, luckily, the Harper family was rich, so she probably wouldn¡¯t betray them. Even if she did, she wouldn¡¯t be able to do much damage anyway.


    When dinner was done, Brenna joined Sandra outside, the two of them stepping into the cool air of the courtyard.


    Out of nowhere, Brenna stopped in her tracks and asked quietly, ¡°Are you really not going to help your mother?¡±


    Sandra¡¯s chest tightened. She knew Brenna had the softest heart in the Harper family. Tears gathered in her eyes once again. ¡°I want to help her, but I just can¡¯t. I don¡¯t have the money to settle my mom¡¯s debts or the connections to save her. No matter how you look at it, the matter can¡¯t be solved without money. Brenna, this is the mess my mother made for herself. She has to face it on her own¡­¡±


    Brenna said with an expressionless face, ¡°Do you know what happens to people who can¡¯t pay off their gambling debts?¡±


    Sandra nodded miserably, her despair deepening. ¡°I know. For smaller debts, they¡¯ll just strip people of their belongings. But when the amount¡¯s massive and the people can¡¯t cover it, they¡¯ll cut off hands or feet. You probably don¡¯t know this, but my mother has already lost two fingers on her left hand because of it.¡± Worry shed in her eyes. ¡°I think this time, she will lose even more¡ªmaybe an arm, maybe a leg.¡±


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    After a pause, she continued, ¡°But there¡¯s nothing I can do. I won¡¯t drag the Harper family into this mess. After all, your family doesn¡¯t owe her anything.¡±


    Brenna gave a small nod, thinking Sandra was being sensible. She honestly felt for Sandra. It took real strength to get this far with a mother like that holding her back. She saw pieces of herself in Sandra. They¡¯d both wed their way up from tough families and carried that same weight on their shoulders.


    That was why, when Julia mentioned Sandra had been quietly selling her things, Brenna had looked the other way. Julia had discovered that because Brenna had once asked her to sell a bottle of perfume at a boutique, and she had happened to spot something of Sandra¡¯s there.


    ¡°If you want to help her, juste to me. I have a way to do that,¡± Brenna said quietly, climbing into Ethan¡¯s car.


    Ethan nced at her, curious. ¡°You really want to help her? You¡¯re not the type to get involved in other people¡¯s problems.¡±


    Brenna said, ¡°Sandra¡¯s mother racked up a mountain of gambling debt overseas. It¡¯s bad.¡±


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 Chapter 1447

    ?Chapter 1447:<fn28b2> Follow current nov?ls on find~novel</fn28b2>


    Ethan gave a low chuckle. ¡°That¡¯s rough. If you need my help, just ask.¡±


    Sandra walked, wrestling with her emotions, and eventually unblocked Keira¡¯s number on her phone. Almost instantly, her phone started to ring with a call from Keira.


    Her voice shrieked through the speaker, frantic with fear. ¡°Sandra, you have to save me! They¡¯re about to chop off my arm. Beg the Harper family for help, please!¡±


    The chaos in the background, the sharp m of a knife on the table, sent chills through Sandra¡¯s body, her legs nearly giving out.


    ¡°Mom, how much did you lose this time?¡± Sandra shouted, unable to hold back her anger. The nightmare she¡¯d feared wasing true. Those casino thugs were brutal. They¡¯d really mutte someone over a debt.


    ¡°Eight hundred million!¡± Keira replied.


    Sandra¡¯s voice shook with desperation as she shouted into the phone, ¡°Isn¡¯t eight hundred million already arge sum? Tell me! If that doesn¡¯t count as astronomical, then what does?¡±


    On the other end of the line, a man responded with icy indifference, ¡°You¡¯ve got two hours to send the money. If you miss the deadline, your mother loses her hands.¡±


    Keira was sobbing in terror, surrounded by a group of men. One of them pinned her down while another lifted an axe, ready to bring it down.


    ¡°Please, Sandra! Call your father and get the money for me! There are only two hours left. If you wait any longer, I¡¯m really going to lose my hands!¡± she cried out, panic in her voice.


    A man shoved a slip of paper at Keira¡¯s face. ¡°Read the ount number. Now.¡± A sharp crack sounded as a whip tore into Keira¡¯s back, drawing blood.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Keira shrieked in pain.


    The sound made Sandra¡¯s heart race as it echoed in her ears.


    ¡°Read it! Quit stalling!¡± the man barked.


    ¡°Ah¡­¡± Keira could barely get a word out before the whip struck her again. The swelling bruises across her back were impossible to ignore. Her face went ghostly pale as she pleaded, her words tumbling out through sobs, ¡°I¡¯ll do it. Please, just stop hitting me! Sandra, I promise this is thest time. I¡¯ll never gamble again. Just help me. The ount number is¡­¡±


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    Sandra didn¡¯t write down a single digit. Her hands wouldn¡¯t stop shaking, and she listened,pletely overwhelmed by frustration and disbelief.


    By the time Keira finished speaking, Sandra was barely holding back her tears. Keira continued, ¡°Please, Sandra, you have to move fast. Just ask your father, and he¡¯ll help. We¡¯re almost out of time. If you don¡¯t act soon, they¡¯re really going to hurt me.¡±


    Her screams and the relentless snap of the whip cut through the phone once more. The man¡¯s voice grew sharper. ¡°Be quick. Our patience is wearing thin.¡± Then the call ended abruptly.


    Sandra stood by the side of the road, sobbing,pletely alone.


    She already knew Shepard and Giselle wouldn¡¯t give her a single cent, even if the amount were much smaller. Even if they did help her, she¡¯d be finished in the family¡¯s eyes. Everything she and Keira had worked for would be destroyed. Every dream she had of living in luxury would turn out to be nothing more than wishful thinking.


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 Chapter 1448

    ?Chapter 1448:


    She couldn¡¯t bear the thought of throwing away the future she¡¯d fought so hard to build. Wiping her tears, she forced herself to focus ande up with a n.


    The only real option left was Brenna. Shepard and Giselle were never going to help her. Still, a nagging doubt lingered. What if Brenna had only been polite earlier? What if she were like Shepard, secretly hoping Sandra would just give up and leave on her own?


    After thinking for a while, Sandra decided she had to at least try. She found a nearby bus stop, checked which route to take, and caught a bus straight to Brenna¡¯spany. Whether she¡¯d make it in time or not waspletely out of her hands now. After stepping off the bus, she realized nearly ny minutes had already slipped away.


    She hurried into the Mitchell Group¡¯s lobby and told the front desk there was an urgent matter. She needed to see Brenna immediately. The receptionist quickly checked with Brenna to confirm.


    While she waited, Sandra¡¯s nerves were on edge. A few minutester, her phone started buzzing with a call from Brenna. Right then, Sandra realized Brenna was serious about helping her.


    ¡°Come up to my office,¡± Brenna said.


    The receptionist guided Sandra all the way to Brenna¡¯s office. Inside, Brenna was absorbed in her work, eyes glued to herputer screen. Without looking up, she asked, ¡°So, what¡¯s going on?¡±


    Sandra wasted no time. ¡°My mom¡¯s in trouble. The casino is demanding eight hundred million, or they¡¯re going to cut off her hands. I didn¡¯t know where else to turn, Brenna.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s tone turned serious. ¡°How much time do we have?¡±


    ¡°They gave me two hours to pay. Only five minutes left.¡± Sandra quickly checked the time.


    .<fna9bd> Fresh chapters posted on FindN0vel</fna9bd>


    Brenna fixed her eyes on Sandra, puzzled by her hesitation. Instead of calling for help right away to save Keira, Sandra had held back, and nearly two hours slipped by before she even mentioned the matter to her. That choice revealed Sandra¡¯s intentions. She didn¡¯t truly want to save Keira.


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    Brenna believed her situation before was different from Sandra¡¯s. Without any blood ties to the Barrett family, she had endured their cruelty, yet she knew she would settle the score once she returned to the Harper family. Sandra, however, faced another reality. Keira was her mother, and still she showed no urgency to save her.


    Thinking of that, Brenna believed she didn¡¯t need to be so concerned about the matter. After all, Sandra didn¡¯t even care about it that much. rity struck her in an instant. Sandra wasn¡¯t as simple as she acted. She was calcting.


    ¡°Sandra, what do you expect me to do to help you?¡± asked Brenna.


    Sandra bit down on her lip, realizing Brenna had sidestepped the trap she had set for her. The sharp question left her cornered. ¡°I want to pay for my mother¡¯s release, but I don¡¯t have a cent to spare. I really don¡¯t have any money to save her.¡±


    Brenna gave a slight nod. ¡°So you¡¯re asking me for money, aren¡¯t you? I¡¯ve got the money, but I don¡¯t think you can pay me back if I lend it to you.¡±


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 Chapter 1449

    ?Chapter 1449:


    At that, Sandra knew Brenna couldn¡¯t be tricked. ¡°Forget about the money, then. Maybe the people in the casino are bluffing. They probably won¡¯t really cut her hands off,¡± she muttered.


    Brenna¡¯s reply was as cold as steel. ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll get someone to rescue your mother. I won¡¯t do anything about the money.¡± Without hesitation, she reached for her phone and called Ethan. With his ties to the casino, arranging Keira¡¯s rescue was easy.


    While Brenna was handling it, Sandra¡¯s phone lit up with a video call from Keira. The two-hour mark had already passed. Sandra¡¯s fingers shook as she answered the call.


    On the screen, Keira¡¯s wrists were pinned against a table while a man stood over her, an axe gripped in his hand. The man wore a mask, but the scar running across his left eyebrow made him easy to identify¡ªhe wasn¡¯t the same man who had threatened her earlier. The scar-faced man leaned closer to the camera, his voice filled with menace. ¡°So you¡¯re not going to pay? Then Keira¡¯s left hand will be cut off.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s face went pale as her hands shook. ¡°Please¡­ just give me more time. I¡¯ll figure something out.¡±


    Keira was frozen with terror. Her sobs came out in broken cries as she begged, ¡°Don¡¯t do it. Please, don¡¯t take my hand. Sandra¡¯s father is rich. He has plenty of money. Just wait. Sandra wille through¡ª¡±


    The axe fell, slicing through Keira¡¯s flesh and bone. A piercing scream ripped from her throat, so harrowing that Sandra lost her grip and dropped the phone in shock.


    Brenna picked the phone up from the floor, her gaze like ice as she spoke into the call. ¡°If you touch her again, I¡¯ll see to it that your casino vanishes from this world.¡±


    The scarred man let out a mockingugh. ¡°You talk tough. Care to prove it?¡± Before he could say more, another figure leaned in, whispered quickly into his ear, then slipped away. The scar-faced man nced at Keira. ¡°You¡¯re lucky. Someone saved you today. Get out of here.¡±


    Keira staggered free, pressing her bleeding wrist against her chest. Rage twisted her pain into venom. ¡°Sandra, why didn¡¯t you ask your father for money? Do you feel satisfied now that I¡¯ve lost my hand? You heartless brat! I will teach you a lesson when I get back!¡±


    F0r more, visit g??l??ovels.??o??


    Sandra finally found her voice. ¡°I warned you about gambling, but you refused to listen. Now look at you¡ªyour money is gone. You don¡¯t even have money for treatment, and I don¡¯t have any to give you. What will you do now?¡± Tears welled as she broke down, her cries echoing with despair. Keira had lost a hand and learned a lesson; she probably wouldn¡¯t gamble again. The oue was exactly what Sandra had hoped for, yet she felt no joy.


    Sandra¡¯s heart sank as she poured out her anguish. ¡°I¡¯m at my wits¡¯ end. I can¡¯t bear the thought of my mother losing her hand, but I¡¯m t broke. Begging for loans isn¡¯t the way, and even if I did that, I would never dig myself out of that debt.¡±


    Brenna listened in gentle silence, offering a box of tissues with a kind gesture.


    ¡°Thank you, Brenna,¡± Sandra said, her voice trembling with gratitude. ¡°If you hadn¡¯t stepped in, my mother might¡¯ve lost both hands.¡±


    ¡°Take a seat,¡± Brenna said, signaling to Lorna for some coffee. ¡°I¡¯ve already arranged for help. Your mother will be taken to a hospital soon.¡±<fn3c37> Read full story at find?novel</fn3c37>


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 Chapter 1450

    ?Chapter 1450:


    Sandra¡¯s eyes glistened with relief. ¡°I don¡¯t even know how to repay you. My mom has been caught in gambling¡¯s grip for years, but she had never lost this big before. She had a hundred million from the settlement before and guarded it carefully. It took nearly a decade for her to squander it all. This time, though, I think she was yed. She usually stuck to local card games and never ventured to foreign casinos. Her losses were small, a few thousand at most. To lose eight hundred million in one fell swoop¡ªit¡¯s unthinkable.¡±


    Brenna let out a sigh. ¡°Your mom is a force of nature, always chasing the next game despite her losses. I don¡¯t know how you¡¯ve held it together all these years.¡±


    Sandra nodded, her expression heavy with memory. ¡°Since high school, I¡¯ve worked every break to keep myself afloat. My father couldn¡¯t rein her in, and they teetered on the edge of divorce more than once. Each time, my mother swore she would change, but she never did. After my father¡¯s ident, when we learned I wasn¡¯t his daughter, their marriage finally ended. My mother lost everything and hoped the Harper family would swoop in to save her.¡± Her voice broke as she continued, ¡°Shepard doesn¡¯t give me pocket money, and I¡¯ve never held it against him or Giselle. After all, I came to the Harper family with my own motives.¡±


    Brenna gave a knowing nod. ¡°Did your mother spill the beans about having eleven million to anyone?¡±


    Sandra replied, ¡°Yes. My mother can¡¯t keep a secret to save her life. Everyone in her gambling circle probably knows that, especially Corinna. She was more thrilled about it than my mother was.¡±


    ¡°Do you think Corinna set her up?¡± Brenna mused, her mind turning over the possibility.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± Sandra said with conviction. ¡°Corinna pushed my mother to go to Lumoria, saying she was on a hot streak. It¡¯s clear as day she schemed against my mother. I¡¯ll call her now.¡± Brenna nodded in approval.


    Sandra dialed Corinna repeatedly, but the line went unanswered each time. Frustrated, she finally gave up.


    An hourter, Ethan called Brenna with news. Keira had been taken to a hospital in Lumoria.


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    Sandra, overwhelmed with gratitude, thanked Brenna profusely before heading to work, carrying on as if nothing had happened. Over lunch, Brenna and Ethan talked about the matter.


    ¡°Sandra could¡¯ve asked for help right away, but she waited until the time was almost up beforeing to you,¡± Ethan said. ¡°It feels like she didn¡¯t really want to save her mother. And she probably wanted to have an excuse when Keira med her for the matter.¡±


    Brenna nodded. ¡°I had the same suspicion. She could¡¯ve just called me, but instead, she hopped on a bus to see me in person. Why drag it out? If she wasn¡¯t fullymitted to saving her mother, why would I?¡±


    Later, Ethan received word that Keira, after receiving initial treatment in Lumoria, boarded a ne to Shirie. Keira, clutching her phone with her one remaining hand, dialed Sandra. Her voice crackled with anger. ¡°You ungrateful child! Why didn¡¯t you listen to me? Did you want me to lose my hand on purpose?¡±


    Sandra¡¯s heart twisted with guilt at Keira¡¯s words. She¡¯d thought her secret intention was buried, but Keira¡¯s remark caught her off guard. She paused, then hardened her tone to deflect suspicion.<fnd66c> Follow current nov?ls on Find1Novel</fnd66c>


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 Chapter 1451

    ?Chapter 1451:


    ¡°You still dare say that? I told you to save that money for your future, but you gambled it all away. Now it¡¯s gone, and the Harpers won¡¯t give me a dime. We¡¯re headed for a life of poverty!¡±


    Keira bristled, unyielding. ¡°So what if I gambled? Didn¡¯t I raise you sessfully? How dare you raise your voice at me, you ungrateful girl? Without me, you¡¯d be nothing. Did you ask your father to help me?¡±


    Sandra replied, ¡°I didn¡¯t. You know how the Harpers see me¡ªthey despise me. And you had the nerve to demand eight hundred million? Do you think they¡¯re idiots who¡¯ll hand over whatever you ask? I¡¯m just the unwanted illegitimate daughter, a stain on their name. Why would they lift a finger for me?¡±


    The thought fueled her anger. Shepard and Giselle had been cold toward her for days, and even Dalton¡¯s hostility stung.


    ¡°Why are you so useless?¡± Keira snapped, her frustration spilling over. ¡°Can¡¯t you make them like you?¡±


    Her voice then broke into sobs. ¡°If you¡¯d won them over, I wouldn¡¯t have lost my hand!¡±


    Sympathy flickered in Sandra, but anger won out. ¡°Will you gamble again?¡±


    Keira¡¯s voice was heavy with regret. ¡°I¡¯m done, I swear. They took everything from me. I¡¯m broke. Please, pick me up at the airport when Ind.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s thoughts turned to Corinna. ¡°How is Corinna doing?¡±


    Keira¡¯s sobs intensified. ¡°She lost it all in the first round, owes over two million. She called her son, but he didn¡¯t pick up. They took her away¡ªI don¡¯t even know if she¡¯s alive or dead now.¡±


    Sandra scoffed. ¡°Corinna¡¯s always been trouble. If she hadn¡¯t egged you on, would you have gone abroad to gamble? She got what she deserved.¡±


    ¡°She¡­¡± Keira¡¯s voice faltered, her heart aching. They¡¯d left together, but only she was returning. What would she tell Corinna¡¯s son?


    After their brief talk, Sandra, reassured of Keira¡¯s safety, returned to work with a clearer head. That evening, she took a cab to the international airport. Seeing Keira, her left hand gone, still hit her like a punch. She couldn¡¯t get the image of Keira¡¯s hand being severed out of her mind. She rushed Keira to the hospital for treatment.


    ?????????????? ???????? ????: ?????????¦Í????????©q?????


    Though she had over three hundred thousand, she didn¡¯t want to give Keira too much money, certain it would vanish into gambling. Instead, she sent small sums to her, enough for some food. After two days in the hospital, Keira went home to recover¡ªhospital bills were crippling. Sandra pretended to be broke in front of Keira, saying all her money was borrowed from online loans.


    On Saturday, Brenna offered to take Sandra shopping. After lunch, Brenna, with Lilith in tow, led Sandra to their favorite high-end shopping street. The street brimmed with luxury boutiques, price tags dizzying. Sandra discreetly checked thebels¡ªa trench coat over a hundred thousand, casual pants at eighty thousand. This was far beyond her reach. Brenna and Lilith spent freely, unfazed.


    Brenna turned to Sandra. ¡°Do you have anything you¡¯d like to buy? I will pay for you today.¡±


    Sandra shook her head. ¡°No, thanks. It¡¯s all too pricey. The most expensive thing I¡¯ve ever worn is barely two thousand. I¡¯ve never touched anything over a hundred thousand.¡±


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    .<fn42f6> Checktest chapters at find[?]ovel</fn42f6>

 Chapter 1452

    ?Chapter 1452:


    At the upscale boutique, Sandra¡¯s gaze settled on a khaki trench coat disyed near the front. She reached out and let her fingers trace the smooth weave. Not far from her, Lilith had found a dark gray coat that caught her interest. The sales assistant hurried over and dly fetched the right size for her.


    She tried the coat at once and turned toward Brenna. ¡°Does it look good on me?¡±


    Brenna fastened the buttons and cinched the belt around Lilith¡¯s waist. Then she had Lilith do a little spin. ¡°It looks perfect. It really suits you,¡± she said.


    Lilith studied her reflection in the tall mirror. ¡°I think it looks good on me, too. I¡¯ll take it.¡±


    With another sale secured, the sales assistant beamed. ¡°I¡¯ll wrap it up for you.¡±


    Sandra turned her attention back to the khaki trench coat. She flipped the tag and nearly gasped. The price was almost a hundred thousand. Seeing that, she looked away at once. This was far beyond what she could afford.


    When Brenna and Lilith moved on to another section, Sandra sneaked a look at the price tag on the coat Lilith had chosen. Her heart leaped. It was a full hundred thousand more than the one she wanted. It struck her how unfair life could be. Some people could buy clothes worth hundreds of thousands without blinking, while she could not even dream of it.


    Brenna had chosen a coat for herself, but nothing else caught her eye. She nced at Sandra and caught the flicker of envy beneath her calm expression. ¡°Didn¡¯t you like that one? Go try it on. I¡¯ll buy it for you.¡±<fn8c83> Follow current nov?ls on find[?]ovel</fn8c83>


    Sandra hesitated. ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    ¡°Of course. Don¡¯t worry about it. I can still afford a few pieces of clothing,¡± Brenna assured her.


    She had always been good at picking out clothes. Thinking of Sandra¡¯s feminine vibe, she began pulling pieces from the racks. Jackets, shirts, sweatshirts, and casual pants piled up in her arms until she had gathered more than ten items.


    ¡°Go on. Try them on!¡± she urged.


    Sandra had noticed those clothes earlier. They were expensive, but the cuts and colors were exquisite. Truth be told, she had liked them the second sheid eyes on them. When she checked the tags, she realized every piece was in her size. Brenna wasn¡¯t just being polite; she genuinely wanted to buy the clothes for her.


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    ¡°Thank you,¡± Sandra said softly as she carried the pile of clothes into the fitting room.


    Brenna¡¯s eye for fashion proved wless. Each outfit fit Sandra¡¯s figure and matched her style perfectly.


    When it was time to pay, Sandra nearly froze. Eighteen pieces¡ªthe total climbed close to two million. Brenna¡¯s generosity left her stunned.


    She thought getting so many new clothes was already the best part of her day. But after loading the bags into the car, the three of them returned to the street and spent the whole afternoon shopping. Brenna picked out dozens more outfits for herself. Lilith bought several as well. As for Sandra, still a little shy, she let Brenna continue choosing for her.


    By the time they returned home, Sandra¡¯s legs felt like lead. She was too tired to move. Still, she was very happy. She mentally counted each purchase and marveled at the thought that Brenna had bought her sixty-seven items in all, from clothes to bags, shoes, and scarves.


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 Chapter 1453

    ?Chapter 1453:


    The next morning marked the day of Brenna and Ethan¡¯s wedding photoshoot. Brenna rose early and stretched with a yawn. As soon as she went downstairs, she saw Ethan waiting in the living room. His suit was sharp, and the sight of him looking so good chased away thest of her sleepiness.


    ¡°You look dashing today,¡± she said. ¡°The suit suits you perfectly.¡±


    Ethan replied, ¡°If you like it, I¡¯ll wear it for the photos today.¡±


    Meanwhile, Sandra, well aware of the asion, had risen early. She was already preparing a meal for Brenna.


    ¡°Brenna, Mr. Mitchell looks really handsome today. You two make such a perfect couple,¡± she said.<fnc4f4> ?? ??? ???? ?? ???? ???? ???????s, ????s? ??s?? find?novel</fnc4f4>


    She wasn¡¯t just being polite. Ethan did look striking. She couldn¡¯t help but nce at him a few times, wondering why her new status hadn¡¯t attracted any admirers yet.


    She wished some wealthy heir might one day take a fancy to her.


    Brenna smiled. ¡°Of course. He¡¯s the most handsome man in the world.¡±


    ¡°I sure am,¡± Ethan said with a smug smile.


    With that, he joined Brenna at the dining table. He set a te in front of her and ced a fork in her hand. ¡°Sorry for making you get up so early on a weekend, honey.¡±


    Sandra walked over carrying some pies. ¡°Brenna, I made these myself. They¡¯ve got that homemade vor you can¡¯t get from a restaurant. Try one. Mr. Mitchell, you should taste them, too. They¡¯re really quite good.¡± She offered them with deliberate care.


    Brenna picked one up, took a bite, and found it delicious. ¡°It is tasty. It really tastes different from what chefs usually make,¡± she said.


    Ethan gave a small nod. ¡°In that case, I¡¯d better try one as well.¡±


    Sandra watched the exchange, her chest tightening with envy. Brenna, once absent from the Harper family, had returned, just like her. Sandra couldn¡¯t help but wonder if she might ever find someone like Ethan for herself. She longed for a partner who cared for her, understood her needs, and possessed both wealth and charm. Every time she looked at Ethan, he seemed to embody everything she imagined in an ideal husband.


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    When Ethan finally sampled one of the pies, he nodded toward Brenna. ¡°The vor really is good.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s face lit up like a child basking in praise. ¡°If you both enjoyed them, I¡¯ll make more next time. In the past, my foster father was always buried in work, and my mother spent her days gambling, so no one cared for me at home. If I wanted to eat, I had to cook for myself. Little by little, I taught myself everything.¡±


    She was eager to pry into Brenna¡¯s past, secretly hoping Ethan might feel sympathy¡ªor better yet, develop some interest in her if her past was more pitiful than Brenna¡¯s. The chances were slim, yet she still clung to that fragile hope.


    ¡°What about you, Brenna? When you lived with the Barretts, did you have to cook for yourself?¡± she asked. Her eyes lingered on Brenna, filled with expectation.


    After a pause, Brenna said without warmth, ¡°The Barrett family treated me harshly. You had your mother with you in the past, but I had no one. To the Barrett family, I was only a tool. They kept me from school and demanded design drafts from me, and when I failed, they starved me or beat me. I was forced to cook, clean, and wash clothes like a servant. Believe¡­¡±


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 Chapter 1454

    ?Chapter 1454:


    ¡°¡­me, my life before was much harder than yours.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s eyes widened. She had never imagined the wealthy Barrett family could treat Brenna with such cruelty. Her gaze flicked toward Cecily, puzzled as to why Cecily had never told her any of this.


    ¡°Really?¡± she eximed, her voice tinged with surprise. ¡°I always thought you had it easier than me. But your past sounds even worse. At least my parents never raised a hand against me.¡±


    She had nned to paint herself as someone pitiful and win Ethan¡¯s sympathy, but she clearly failed.


    Ethan squeezed Brenna¡¯s hand with quiet resolve. ¡°The Barrett family has already paid for what they did to you. If anyone tries to hurt you again, I won¡¯t let them off.¡±


    Sandra let out a faint sigh. ¡°Even so, our lives share some simrities. You¡¯ve suffered more, Brenna, and I admire your strength. I¡¯d really like to tag along for your engagement photos today, just to see how everything¡¯s done. If you¡¯ll let me, I¡¯d love to help out. Would that be alright?¡±


    ¡°Of course,¡± Brenna replied without hesitation.<fnc4d2> Chapters first released on find?novel</fnc4d2>


    Her parents had never allowed Sandra to appear in public, keeping her hidden away. Though Brenna disliked going against her mother¡¯s wishes, she knew the spreading rumors could damage her family. Within Shirie¡¯s social circles, whispers imed the Harpers despised their illegitimate daughter. Tales spread that Giselle bullied Sandra relentlessly, denied her meals, and treated her as nothing more than a servant. Brenna nned to bring Sandra out and let people see for themselves that she was living well under the Harper family¡¯s roof.


    She continued, ¡°You should join us and take some nice photos, too. The photographer we hired is excellent, and we¡¯ve arranged plenty of outfits. You can choose a few to try on.¡±


    Sandra was caught off guard by Brenna¡¯s generosity. Brenna had allowed her to interrupt her time alone with Ethan and didn¡¯t question her motives at all. For all her sess and resources, Brenna came across as a little too trusting.


    ¡°That sounds wonderful, Brenna. I¡¯ve never had the chance to take proper photos before. And I still haven¡¯t thanked you and Mr. Mitchell for what you did for my mother. I don¡¯t have anything valuable to give in return, but at the very least, I can help out during the photoshoot,¡± Sandra said.


    ?????????????? ????????????: g??????¦Í??????????????


    ¡°We¡¯re family, so don¡¯t thank us. We can¡¯t just sit back and let them mistreat you,¡± said Brenna before taking another bite.


    Sandra quietly joined her at the table. A pang of guilt weighed on her chest for scheming against Brenna, who was treating her so kindly.


    When the meal ended, Ethan led Brenna to his car, and Sandra slipped into the front passenger seat. Neville, seated behind the wheel, offered her a warm nod and a smile.


    Sandra believed their destination was a studio for the wedding pictures. Instead, Neville drove them toward the ocean, where Ethan¡¯s private yacht came into view, gleaming like a pce on the water.


    The scale of the gathering left her stunned. More than thirty professionals were present, ranging from stylists and assistants to makeup artists, not to mention three photographers. Sandra could hardly fathom the luxury surrounding her.


    Along the shore, severalrge tents stood ready, holding the wedding attire for Ethan and Brenna. Staying close to Brenna, Sandra followed her inside and began admiring the dresses. One tent alone disyed rows of gowns¡ªenough to rival a boutique. No wonder Brenna had told her to pick a few outfits for herself. Ordinary brides might prepare only three to five ensembles, yet Brenna possessed dozens, each one worth millions.


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 Chapter 1455

    ?Chapter 1455:


    The photography crew wasted no time, their movements quick and efficient. One of the female assistants walked over, holding a white wedding gown. ¡°Miss Harper, I n to begin the shoot by the shoreline. Then we can continue aboard the yacht for some ocean views. Would that work for you?¡±


    Brenna gave a calm nod. ¡°Yes. Sounds good.¡±


    While the makeup artist began her work, Sandra stood nearby. With so many assistants already in ce, she wasn¡¯t needed, so she went to the car for some water and asionally handed it to Brenna. As the brushes swept across Brenna¡¯s face, the makeup artist asked casually, ¡°Miss Harper, is she your servant?¡±<fn6221> Th?s chapter is updated by </fn6221>


    Sandra stiffened at the words, her displeasure clear.


    Without hesitation, Brenna answered, ¡°She¡¯s my sister. My family only reunited with her recently.¡±


    The makeup artist quickly caught on and said, ¡°Sorry, I got it wrong.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s voice stayed steady. ¡°No need to apologize to me. You should apologize to her.¡±


    Turning at once, the makeup artist looked at Sandra and apologized again. But even after that, a thought lingered in her mind. From the way Sandra hovered near Brenna, ready with water, she truly did behave like a servant. Sandra chose not to make things harder for the makeup artist. She would need her skills for her own photographster, after all.


    The team remained busy through the day, even shooting a few scenes under the night sky. Sandra also stepped into several gowns and posed for countless pictures.


    By Tuesday evening, the Barker family hosted a charity dinner at the Azure Bay Hotel. The event aimed to raise funds for children from the slums who needed surgery for cleft ptes. Both Brenna and Sandra attended. Although the gathering was small, with only a few dozen guests, everyone present belonged to Shirie¡¯s upper ss. Alongside Brenna, the Harper family was represented by Lilith and Ernst.


    Sandra wore a floor-length gown in a pale shade of yellow. To anyone watching, she trailed behind the three Harpers like an attendant. Just before they entered the venue, Brenna nced back and reminded Sandra, ¡°Stay beside me. Don¡¯t fall behind like a servant. Hold your head high. You¡¯re the equal of anyone here.¡±


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    Sandra had been nervous. Rumors about her had already spread among Shirie¡¯s wealthy circles, and the thought of their scorn made her uneasy. So her steps had slowed without her realizing it, her head dipping slightly as if she feared the eyes of those who had known privilege all their lives. Hearing Brenna¡¯s words, she steadied herself. With deliberate poise, she joined her side, her smile graceful.


    Watching this, Ernst felt his irritation grow. He couldn¡¯t fathom why Brenna had brought Sandra along, especially knowing many people would ask them about her identity.


    There were surely many waiting to mock their family that night. The moment they entered the banquet hall, nearly every head turned. Smiles were polite, but the eyes behind them were sharp with scrutiny.


    The Harper family shone as the evening¡¯s brightest stars, with Ernst, the wealthiest guest, drawing every eye. His presence was maic,manding the room¡¯s attention with effortless grace.


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 Chapter 1456

    ?Chapter 1456:


    A crowd of small and medium-sized business owners buzzed around him, eager to exchange words and forge connections that could elevate their status. At that moment, Conroy approached, extending a firm handshake to Ernst and Brenna. After a brief exchange of courtesies, Ernst glided away to engage with a cluster of CEOs from smaller enterprises, leaving Conroy to turn his attention to Brenna.


    ¡°Ms. Harper,¡± Conroy began, his voice brimming with gratitude. ¡°The prosthetics you tailored for my disabled employees have been a game-changer. They¡¯re already transforming lives, and I hear heartfelt thanks from them daily. Without your generosity, such quality aids would¡¯ve remained out of reach for years.¡±


    His appreciation for Brenna ran deep. Hispany employed many disabled workers, and even the most basic prosthetics carried a hefty price tag¡ªtens of thousands, with advanced models soaring into the hundreds of thousands. Though Brenna had provided the most cost-effective options, the total cost was still a mountain to climb.


    Brenna brushed it off with a gentle smile. ¡°It¡¯s nothing, really. These folks face enough challenges, and they¡¯ve got families to support. I¡¯m just d to lend a helping hand. Honestly, I wish I could do more.¡±<fn36a4> Read full story at Find¡ïNovel</fn36a4>


    Conroy¡¯s admiration grew. ¡°You¡¯ve already done a lot. Your orders have breathed new life into my factories. Truth be told, they were teetering on the edge of shutting down before. I owe you more than words can express.¡±


    Their conversation lingered warmly before Conroy excused himself to mingle with other guests, leaving with a respectful nod. As he departed, a wave of socialites walked over. Brenna and Lilith were the talk of Shirie¡¯s high society. Brenna¡¯s impending marriage to Ethan, poised to make her the wife of the wealthiest man in Shirie, stirred a mix of awe and envy.


    Two impably dressed women, Vivian and Tina, sauntered over. Brenna¡¯s eyes widened briefly at the sight of them together. When had they be friends?


    Tina had been absent from the social scene for some time, and Vivian had kept a low profile for the past year. Their sudden appearance caught Brenna off guard. Uninterested in their games, Brenna shared a knowing nce with Lilith, and the two deftly turned away, their movements smooth as silk. Sandra, however, missed the cue, lingering a moment too long.


    Stay connected at g?ln¦Ò¦Í????s?c?m


    She caught the warm smiles of the two women, the first to approach her since she had entered the venue. So she stood there, her lips curving into a gentle smile in return. Tina and Vivian, though stung by Brenna¡¯s cool dismissal, masked their irritation with practiced charm.


    ¡°Miss Harper, I presume?¡± Tina said, extending a manicured hand with a radiant smile. ¡°I¡¯m Tina Russell. My brother, Jayceon, is quite close to your brother. You know that, right?¡±


    Sandra shook her head gently. ¡°I¡¯m afraid I don¡¯t know my brother¡¯s friends all that well.¡± Even so, she radiated warmth as she introduced herself. ¡°I¡¯m Sandra Harper, a fashion designer. It¡¯s truly a delight to meet you both.¡±


    Tina and Vivian shared a fleeting nce, sensing Sandra¡¯s approachable nature¡ªa stark contrast to Brenna¡¯s guarded demeanor. They believed it would be easier to deal with her.


    Vivian extended a graceful hand, her smile polished. ¡°Vivian Morrison. My family runs a home products empire. That dress of yours is breathtaking¡ªsurely it is expensive?¡±


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 Chapter 1457

    ?Chapter 1457:


    Sandra¡¯s smile widened, her eyes sparkling with gratitude. ¡°Brenna gifted it to me. It¡¯s worth over a hundred thousand¡ªso expensive that I almost couldn¡¯t bring myself to slip it on.¡±


    Vivian¡¯s tone carried a hint of envy. ¡°She is so generous to you. I would give anything for a sister like her.¡±


    After a bit of light chatter, Tina¡¯s eyes gleamed with an idea. ¡°Come, let me introduce you to some of my friends.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s gaze flicked toward Brenna, who was looking over with an unreadable expression, a subtle crease in her brow. Seeing that, Sandra said, ¡°Sorry. Brenna needs me for something.¡±


    The moment Sandra stepped away, Tina¡¯sposure cracked, her voice dropping to a sharp whisper. ¡°How ungrateful! She¡¯s just the daughter of some washed-up gambler. How dare she brush me off like that?¡±<fn8a15> Chapters first released on f?ndnovel</fn8a15>


    Sandra heard Tina¡¯s words and felt a surge of displeasure. When she nced over her shoulder, several members of high society clustered around Tina, their whispers about her followed by mockingughter. She felt as if she had been tricked intoing here.


    A thought crossed her mind¡ªperhaps Brenna didn¡¯t want her to form connections here at all. Another look revealed the sharp nces of Tina and Vivian, joined by the scornful stares of others nearby. Sandra regretted not using the chance to socialize earlier. Instead of spending all her attention on Brenna, she should have been mingling.


    Her gaze shifted to Brenna. A circle of wealthy people surrounded her, including a few gentlemen who carried themselves with easy refinement. Sandra wondered if people like them would wee her.


    ¡°Brenna, what¡¯s happening here?¡± she asked as she stepped closer, drawing the group¡¯s attention.


    Before Brenna could reply, Jordy interjected with a charming smile. ¡°You must be Miss Sandra Harper, right? I¡¯m Jordy, Brenna¡¯s former boyfriend.¡±


    Sandra froze for a moment. Considering Jordy¡¯s identity as Brenna¡¯s ex, it startled her to see him so casually talking andughing with Brenna. Shouldn¡¯t Brenna be worried that Ethan might get upset because of this?


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    Brenna cut Jordy a sharp nce. ¡°Stop joking around.¡± She turned to Sandra. ¡°He¡¯s the CEO of his family¡¯spany.¡±


    The revtion stunned Sandra even more. Brenna had always imed to endure hardships before returning to the Harper family, yet her former boyfriend was already the head of a majorpany. Jordy looked young and striking, carrying himself with polished manners. Unlike Tina, there was no contempt in his eyes. If anything, Sandra even noticed a flicker of admiration in them.


    A rush of excitement welled up inside her. Atst, here was a respectable man who seemed genuinely interested in her. Even if he had once been Brenna¡¯s boyfriend, she didn¡¯t care. For the first time, Sandra began doubting Brenna¡¯s version of the past. How much had Brenna kept hidden?


    After a brief hesitation, she extended her hand to Jordy.


    Another man soon stepped forward. ¡°I¡¯m Lanny Wace of Wace Machinery. I¡¯ve partnered with Ms. Brenna Harper on several ventures.¡±


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 Chapter 1458

    ?Chapter 1458:


    Lanny was attractive in his own way. Though older than Jordy¡ªperhaps in histe thirties¡ªhe carried an air of elegance that was hard to ignore. Sandra shook his hand lightly and, in that instant, realized that Brenna had indeed brought her over with the sincere intention of introducing her to friends and helping her integrate into high society. But it was a pity that her rtionship with Tina and Vivian had already soured.


    Brenna was genuine in her effort to help Sandra fit in. She introduced her to several people from Shirie¡¯s upper circles¡ªLainey Barker, daughter of Conroy; Renata Briggs, Jordy¡¯s cousin; and Corinne Wagner, Denis¡¯s cousin. Each greeted Sandra with a quick handshake and a brief ¡°Nice to meet you.¡± Nothing followed. No one offered contact details.


    The conversation soon shifted to gossip about other affluent people. Names Sandra had never heard filled the air, and every word reminded her how much of an outsider she was. Atst, she made an excuse to slip away and tried to make friends on her own. With a ss of wine in hand, she moved through the crowd, smiling at everyone she passed. Yet most only gave her cool nces or ignored herpletely.


    Frustration pressed down on Sandra¡¯s chest.


    ¡°Miss Harper.¡±


    A voice came from nearby. Sandra looked up. A young man in a silver-gray suit stood before her, wine ss in hand, his smile warm. His hair was cropped short, his face handsome. His eyes never left hers.


    Sandra¡¯s training as a fashion designer told her the truth instantly¡ªhis suit was no ordinary piece. It was custom work, easily worth about four hundred thousand dors.


    ¡°Do you know me?¡± she asked, keeping her tone confident even as her heart raced with excitement at finally drawing the attention of a wealthy man.


    ¡°I¡¯ve had my eye on you for a while. Miss Harper, you look absolutely radiant tonight. That gown suits you perfectly.¡±


    When Brenna¡¯s gaze wandered in Sandra¡¯s direction, she spotted none other than Shirie¡¯s infamous yboy, Andres Stewart. He was deep in conversation with Sandra, who appeared delighted by his attention.


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    Lilith turned her head as well. ¡°That¡¯s Andres, right? Didn¡¯t he just break up with a celebrityst week? The news wouldn¡¯t stop talking about it.¡±


    Brenna intended to observe a moment longer, her gaze fixed on Sandra. She believed that Sandra, sharp as she was, would not fail to see the true nature of Andres¡¯ character. Surely, Sandra wasn¡¯t so easily dazzled by fleeting charm, even if she hadn¡¯t yet seen through Andres¡¯ facade.


    She harbored doubts about Andres¡¯ intentions, sensing a hidden agenda beneath his polished demeanor. Yet she hesitated to intervene so soon; after all, he had just started talking to Sandra.


    Nearby, Lilith shared Brenna¡¯s thoughts. Amid the bustling crowd, she couldn¡¯t voice her concerns to Brenna, so she simply watched Sandra, thinking about when she had first met Ernst. Unlike Andres, Ernst had been forthright, his words unadorned by ttery. Their union, orchestrated by their families with marriage in mind, stood in stark contrast to Andres¡¯ reputation for fleeting dalliances, devoid of any promise ofmitment.


    .<fn5589> Th? link to the orig?n of this information r?sts ?n f?i?n?d?n?o?v?e?l?</fn5589>


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 Chapter 1459

    Chapter 1459:


    Andres¡¯ reputation as a yboy was no secret. His interest in Sandra, if genuine, carried the risk of leaving her heart broken. Even the Harpers, despite their dislike for Sandra, would not stand for that.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you call Sandra over?¡± Lilith said to Brenna, her voice tinged with concern.


    Brenna swiftly sent Sandra a message, gently urging her to join them. Sandra felt her phone hum, nced at the screen, and caught Brenna¡¯s expectant look. Yet she had no inclination toply. Brenna¡¯s earlier summons had already pulled her away from Tina, sparking irritation and harsh words about her. She didn¡¯t want to offend someone who had extended a gesture of warmth toward her again.


    So she continued her exchange with Andres, a man well versed in the art of enchantment. Knowing Sandra¡¯s humble origins, he believed she was naive and easy to fool.


    ¡°There¡¯s a delightful spread of desserts over there,¡± Andres said smoothly. ¡°Let me take you to try some.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s eyes had already lingered on thevish dessert table, her curiosity piqued. The desserts were prepared by Conroy, each piece a rare delicacy, worth a small fortune elsewhere.


    She had never tasted such luxuries and felt a quiet thrill at the prospect.


    ¡°I would love to,¡± she replied eagerly.


    As they moved, Andres deliberately grazed Sandra¡¯s hand, testing her reaction. Sandra returned a warm smile, interpreting the touch as an innocent gesture of fondness, one that secretly delighted her.


    Brenna watched, her frustration mounting. How could Sandra, a member of the Harper family¡ªone of Shirie¡¯s most eminent families¡ªbe so easily charmed by a man so far beneath her? The Stewarts, after all, held no candle to the Harpers¡¯ prestige. Lilith, too, felt a pang of concern for Sandra.


    At the dessert table, Andres selected a decadent chocte mousse cake and presented it to Sandra, offering her a fork with practiced grace. ¡°You must try this,¡± he said warmly. ¡°It¡¯s baked with the finest Valport ingredients by a master chef. Even the most exclusive patisseries rarely create something this exquisite.¡±


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    Sandra felt cheerful, familiar with the cakes¡¯ appearance yet never having sampled them before. Her ie could have afforded such treats once, but Keira¡¯s greed had stripped her finances bare, leaving her with only the most modest meals and threadbare garments worn for years. Now, standing beside a dashing gentleman offering her such exquisite fare, Sandra felt her spirits soar like a bird set free.


    Andres delicately lifted a piece of cake with his fork and offered it to Sandra, a gesture brimming with closeness. Sandra basked in the warmth of it, a soft flush coloring her cheeks. She parted her lips to savor the cake, her voice alight with wonder. ¡°This is so delicious.¡±


    Andres¡¯ smile widened, his charm effortless. ¡°If it brings you such joy, I¡¯ll see to it you enjoy one every day.¡± He selected another cake and presented it to her. ¡°Try this one. It¡¯s less sweet, but the cream is unparalleled, crafted with the finest care.¡±


    Without hesitation, he took the partially eaten cake from Sandra¡¯s hand and passed it to a nearby server to discard.


    Sandra¡¯s brow furrowed slightly, a flicker of unease crossing her face. ¡°Isn¡¯t it a bit extravagant to discard it after just a few bites?¡±


    Andres waved off her concern with an easy grin. ¡°Not at all. This is a charity g, and I¡¯ve made my donation tonight. Mr. Barker won¡¯t mind this.¡±


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    Message from Noah: Have a good afternoon dear readers. God loves you and Noash whishes you all the best. (? ?? ? ¨C ? ) ?


    .<fn3ad7> For more chapters visit find?novel</fn3ad7>

 Chapter 1460

    ?Chapter 1460:


    Brenna intended to observe a moment longer, her gaze fixed on Sandra. She believed that Sandra, sharp as she was, would not fail to see the true nature of Andres¡¯ character. Surely, Sandra wasn¡¯t so easily dazzled by a fleeting charm, even if she hadn¡¯t yet seen through Andres¡¯ facade.


    She harbored doubts about Andres¡¯ intentions, sensing a hidden agenda beneath his polished demeanor. Yet, she hesitated to intervene so soon. After all, he had just started to talk to Sandra.


    Nearby, Lilith shared Brenna¡¯s thoughts. Amid the bustling crowd, she couldn¡¯t voice her concerns to Brenna. So, she just watched Sandra, thinking about when she had first met Ernst.


    Unlike Andres, Ernst had been forthright, his words unadorned by ttery. Their union, orchestrated by their families with marriage in mind, stood in stark contrast to Andres¡¯ reputation for fleeting dalliances, devoid of any promise ofmitment.


    Andres¡¯ reputation as a yboy was no secret. His interest in Sandra, if genuine, carried the risk of leaving her heart broken.


    Even the Harpers, despite their dislike for Sandra, would not stand for that.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you call Sandra over?¡± Lilith said to Brenna, her voice tinged with concern.


    Brenna swiftly sent Sandra a message, gently urging her to join them.


    Sandra felt her phone hum, nced at the screen, and caught Brenna¡¯s expectant look. Yet, she had no inclination toply.


    Brenna¡¯s earlier summons had already pulled her away from Tina, sparking irritation and harsh words about her. She didn¡¯t want to offend someone who extended a gesture of warmth toward her again.


    So, she continued her exchange with Andres, a man well-versed in the art of enchantment. Knowing Sandra¡¯s humble origins, he believed she was naive and easy to fool.


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    ¡°There¡¯s a delightful spread of desserts over there,¡± Andres said smoothly. ¡°Let me take you to try some.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s eyes had already lingered on thevish dessert table, her curiosity piqued. The desserts were prepared by Conroy, each piece a rare delicacy worth a small fortune elsewhere.


    She had never tasted such luxuries and felt a quiet thrill at the prospect.


    ¡°I would love to,¡± she replied eagerly.


    As they moved, Andres deliberately grazed Sandra¡¯s hand, testing her reaction. Sandra returned a warm smile, interpreting the touch as an innocent gesture of fondness, one that secretly delighted her.


    Brenna watched, her frustration mounting. How could Sandra, a member of the Harper family, which was among Shirie¡¯s most eminent families, be so easily charmed by a man so far beneath her? The Stewarts, after all, held no candle to the Harpers¡¯ prestige.


    Lilith, too, felt a pang of concern for Sandra.


    At the dessert table, Andres selected a decadent chocte mousse cake and presented it to Sandra, offering her a fork with practiced grace.


    ¡°You must try this,¡± he said warmly. ¡°It¡¯s baked with the finest Valport ingredients by a master chef. Even the most exclusive patisseries rarely create something this exquisite.¡±


    Sandra felt cheerful, familiar with the cakes¡¯ appearance yet never having sampled them before.


    Her ie could have afforded such treats before, but Keira¡¯s greed had stripped her finances bare, leaving her with only the most modest meals and threadbare garments worn for years.


    Now, standing beside a dashing gentleman offering her such exquisite fare, Sandra felt her spirits soar like a bird set free.


    Andres delicately lifted a piece of cake with his fork and offered it to Sandra, a gesture brimming with closeness.


    Sandra basked in the warmth of such a gesture, a soft flush coloring her cheeks.


    She parted her lips to savor the cake, her voice alight with wonder. ¡°This is so delicious.¡±


    Andres¡¯ smile widened, his charm effortless. ¡°If it brings you such joy, I¡¯ll see to it you enjoy one every day.¡±


    He selected another cake, presenting it to her. ¡°Try this one. It¡¯s less sweet, but the cream is unparalleled, crafted with the finest care.¡±


    Without hesitation, he took the partially eaten cake from Sandra¡¯s hand and passed it to a nearby server to discard it.


    Sandra¡¯s brow furrowed slightly, a flicker of unease crossing her face. ¡°Isn¡¯t it a bit extravagant to discard it after just a few bites?¡±


    Andres waved off her concern with an easy grin. ¡°Not at all. This is a charity g, and I¡¯ve made my donation tonight. Mr. Barker won¡¯t mind this.¡±


    The long dining table overflowed with a spread of desserts. Andres encouraged Sandra to sample them all, nudging her to take just a bite or two from each before moving to the next. It felt indulgent, almost wasteful.


    Sandra¡¯s cheeks warmed with unease. ¡°Isn¡¯t this excessive? We¡¯re letting so much go to waste.¡±


    Andres shed a smile. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it. Everyone here is swimming in money. No one bats an eye at a few uneaten desserts. Just enjoy yourself. No one¡¯s going to say anything.¡±


    Sandra nced around the room. Seeing no one paying them any mind, she felt her tension ease.


    She rxed into Andres¡¯ generosity, savoring each bite. Andres was attentive, almost too much so, bypassing the usual handoff to feed her directly with a fork. Their easy conversation and sharedughter gave them the air of a couple. Lilith couldn¡¯t watch it any longer. ¡°Sandra is embarrassing the Harper family.¡±


    Brenna nodded. ¡°Yeah. Let¡¯s go over there.¡±


    Jordy, catching the scene, smirked. ¡°Andres has probably slept with a hundred women by now. And he¡¯s after Sandra.¡±


    Ernst, who¡¯d been deep in conversation with nearby executives, could also no longer ignore the matter.


    Before Brenna and Lilith could approach Sandra and Andres, he reached them. With a rough shove, he pushed Andres away from Sandra, his voice icy. ¡°My sister¡¯s far too good for a shameless yer like you. Keep your distance from her.¡±


    The cake on Andres¡¯ fork hit the floor, along with the te he¡¯d been holding. Irritated, Andres shot back, ¡°Mr. Harper, what¡¯s this supposed to mean?¡±


    Sandra, seeing Ernst¡¯s furious expression, realized she¡¯d overstepped by letting Andres get so close to her.


    She¡¯d enjoyed the attention Andres had given her, but Ernst¡¯s intervention left her mortified.


    ¡°Ernst¡­¡± Her voice wavered in fear. He was rarely around, always stern, barely acknowledging her presence.


    ¡°What were you thinking?¡± Ernst¡¯s frown deepened as he turned to her. ¡°Do you even know who this guy is? He¡¯s Shirie¡¯s most notorious yboy, a serial heartbreaker.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s face flushed crimson. She hadn¡¯t known that. She¡¯d taken Andres for a decent businessman, someone genuinely interested in her.


    ¡°I¡ªI didn¡¯t know,¡± she stammered, anger and humiliation swirling within her. Since he knew Andres¡¯ reputation, why hadn¡¯t he warned her sooner? Andres had been feeding her for ages before he stepped in.


    Andres, unfazed, said with calm precision, ¡°Mr. Harper, I genuinely like Sandra. She¡¯s kind, intelligent, and beautiful. What¡¯s wrong with me pursuing her?¡±


    Ernst seized Andres by the cor, his voice low and menacing. ¡°A yboy like you dares to chase my sister? I¡¯m warning you¡ªstay away from her!¡±


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 Chapter 1461

    ?Chapter 1461:


    Sandra¡¯s frustration boiled over. She hadn¡¯t expected Ernst to be so angry.


    ¡°Ernst, I know what I¡¯m doing. I¡¯m not a fool.¡±


    Ernst was in a bad mood, thinking Sandra was being naive.


    ¡°If you¡¯re not a fool, why let him feed you like that? What, you¡¯ve never seen desserts before? You barely know the guy, and you¡¯re letting him feed you? Have some dignity!¡±


    His voice didn¡¯t rise, but it carried, cutting through the chatter. Nearby guests turned to stare.


    Sandra felt utterly humiliated, thinking Ernst had deliberately turned her into aughingstock, ensuring she¡¯d never belong in their elite circles.


    Resentment toward Ernst surged within her. Tears stinging her eyes, she fled the room.


    Andres seemed indifferent to Sandra¡¯s distress. The abrupt end to their yful moment bored him.


    Brenna and Lilith walked over, Brenna¡¯s gaze sharp as a de as she looked at Andres. ¡°Stay away from her, Andres. If I catch you near her again, you¡¯ll regret it.¡±


    Andres retorted, ¡°This is none of your business.¡±


    With that, he left the banquet hall, appearing to follow Sandra


    Lilith bristled with anger. ¡°How dare Andres act like that? He doesn¡¯t respect our family at all!¡±


    Ernst¡¯s brows drew together. ¡°We shouldn¡¯t have let Sandrae along today.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s expression hardened. ¡°Judging by Sandra¡¯s attitude, she won¡¯t give up easily. I¡¯ll go check on her.¡±


    Ernst stopped her with a raised hand. ¡°Leave it. Let her do as she pleases. If she regrets itter, she can¡¯t say we never warned her.¡±


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    Lilith shook her head sharply. ¡°No, that won¡¯t do. It will only drag our family into shame. Have you heard the gossip spreadingtely? I suspect that Sandra is the one leaking it. Otherwise, how would outsiders know our family doesn¡¯t give her pocket money, that she rides the bus, and that she can¡¯t even afford a proper lunch at work? The whole thing paints us as viins.¡±


    Ernst gave a slow nod. ¡°You have a point. She¡¯s probably using all this to push us into giving her what she wants.¡±


    Brenna hesitated. As much as she wanted to trust Sandra, Lilith¡¯s words weren¡¯t without merit. A small doubt stirred inside her.


    Lilith said, ¡°What if this entire scene tonight was staged by her?¡±


    Frustration rose in Brenna. ¡°Let¡¯s go see her.¡±


    Lilith followed closely as Brenna led the way outside. They searched the restroom, found nothing, then stepped out of the hotel. There, beneath a tree, Sandra sat in tears.


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 Chapter 1462

    ?Chapter 1462:


    Andres hurried over. He pulled some tissues from his pocket, dabbing her cheeks with care. His voice softened. ¡°Don¡¯t cry. I know the Harper family looks down on you. They don¡¯t give you an allowance and treat you like you don¡¯t belong. I¡¯ve heard the rumors. At first, I thought they couldn¡¯t possibly be true. A family with that much money surely wouldn¡¯t treat you like that. But after tonight, I can see that the rumors are real. I really feel for you.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s grievances swelled when she heard that, and her sobs grew louder. ¡°You¡¯re right. If it were outsiders, I could endure it. But it is my father who refuses to give me even a penny. It breaks my heart. I never got to choose the circumstances of my birth, so why must he punish me for it? I¡¯ve never wronged him¡­¡±


    Andres said in an angry voice, ¡°None of this is your fault. They¡¯re the ones in the wrong. Don¡¯t worry; I¡¯ll make sure you get justice. Come on, let¡¯s confront Shepard right now and ask what he means by treating you this way.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s tears stopped instantly, and she clutched his sleeve to stop him. ¡°No, please don¡¯t. I¡¯m only talking about this with you, not asking you to act. Family matters shouldn¡¯t be dragged out into the open. If my father withholds money, maybe it¡¯s because I¡¯ve upset him. Once he is no longer mad at me, I believe he¡¯ll give me something. Besides, I have a job and get paid monthly¡ª¡±


    Andres cut her off with a shake of his head, saying, ¡°You¡¯re far too naive. Do you even know how they weed Brenna back? Both of you are Harpers, yet look at how differently the Harper family treats you.¡±


    Sandra blinked through her tears, surprised. ¡°What do you mean? How did they treat Brenna when she returned to the family?¡±


    Andres gave a coldugh. ¡°They showered her with money. Your father and brother handed her shares,panies, properties, clothes, and handbags. They even had luxury store clerks deliver items to the house so she could pick whatever she wanted. And then there¡¯s you. Compared to Brenna, your ce in that household isn¡¯t much higher than a servant¡¯s. They mistreat you because you let them.¡±


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    Sandra¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief. ¡°Mr. Stewart, is what you said true?¡±


    ¡°Of course it¡¯s true. Do you have any idea how much wealth Brennamands while you wait? And still, you defend them and refuse my help to im what¡¯s rightfully yours? You are not being kind by doing this; you are being foolish.¡±


    Sandra admitted inwardly that Andres¡¯ words rang true, and she shared the same thought. But she refused to demand money from the Harpers. They didn¡¯t owe her anything.


    She was a Harper by blood, yet the wealth belonged to them. Whether they chose to share it or not rested entirely in their hands.


    Although wealth tempted her, she disliked the idea of grabbing at it shamelessly. Such behavior would tarnish her name. She still needed to use the Harper family¡¯s influence as adder to build her own future, after all.


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 Chapter 1463

    ?Chapter 1463:


    She said, ¡°But they don¡¯t even like me. If I ask them for money, they¡¯ll only resent me more. Then I won¡¯t have a ce in the family at all. I should avoid that. It¡¯s better if I earn their trust little by little. Someday, I¡¯ll soften their hearts.¡±


    Andres gave a dryugh. ¡°Do you honestly believe they¡¯lle around?¡±


    ¡°What choice do I have? Do you expect me to rob them?¡± Sandra shot back at Andres. ¡°That¡¯s not happening. Stop pressing me. I know what I¡¯m doing. Not everyone in the Harper family treats me poorly.¡±


    Andres replied, ¡°Fine, I won¡¯t talk about that anymore. Since you don¡¯t want to return, let me take you out to eat.¡±


    Sandra nodded, realizing how thoughtful Andres was. Time and again, he sided with her, even when it came to matters with the Harper family. It was rare to find someone who cared about her like this.


    She said, ¡°Alright. Earlier, you handed me all the food and went without a bite yourself. This time, I¡¯ll eat with you. Tell me what you¡¯d like. I¡¯ll pay for it.¡±


    Pointing toward the road, Andres said, ¡°There¡¯s a ce just up ahead. Their steak is excellent. I¡¯ll take you there.¡±


    Brenna and Lilith watched as the pair walked away. With a shake of her head, Lilith muttered in exasperation, ¡°How can she act like this? They barely know each other, and she¡¯s already leaving with him. We warned her about Andres, but she doesn¡¯t seem to care about our words at all.¡±


    Brenna, on the other hand, stayedposed. ¡°Don¡¯t let it get to you. Andres knows how to win women over. You saw it yourself. In just a moment, he had Sandra eating out of his hand with desserts. Who else could manage that so quickly?¡±


    Lilith nodded in reluctant agreement. ¡°True, I¡¯ve heard Andres goes to great lengths whenever he¡¯s pursuing someone.¡±


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    ¡°Let¡¯s head back. We said everything that needed saying at the banquet. If she ends up being deceived by Andrester, that¡¯s her fault, not ours.¡± Brenna had no desire to repeat herself. She no longer nned on extending kindness toward Sandra now.


    When the banquet came to a close, Brenna and the others made their way home. Sandra, however, didn¡¯t return. Brenna called her.


    ¡°We¡¯re leaving now. Where are you? Do you want me toe pick you up?¡± Her voice on the call carried courtesy but no warmth. This was less about care and more about duty. Leaving Sandra behind would reflect poorly on the Harper family, and Brenna couldn¡¯t allow their reputation to suffer.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to wait for me. Mr. Stewart will drive me home,¡± Sandra replied cheerfully, sitting in front of a neatly ted steak and sipping her wine, forgetting the earlier troubles.


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 Chapter 1464

    ?Chapter 1464:


    ¡°Fine, just be sure toe back early.¡±


    The call ended, and Brenna returned home with Ernst and Lilith.


    Midnight came by the time they arrived home, yet Sandra still hadn¡¯t returned. Brenna remained indifferent. Not a single member of the Harper family asked about Sandra, nor did they seem to care where she had gone.


    After finishing her shower, Brenna changed into her pajamas and prepared to rest when an unexpected knock sounded at her door.


    When she opened the door, she saw Sandra standing there holding a grand bouquet of roses, her face glowing with delight. ¡°Brenna, I¡¯m home.¡±


    ¡°The flowers look lovely. You should get some sleep.¡± Brenna kept her words brief. She understood that saying anything bad about Andres would only fall on deaf ears and might even cause Sandra to resent her.


    ¡°Mr. Stewart brought me back tonight. He treated me to steak, and I think he¡¯s a genuinely good man. I even asked him about those rumors of having too many girlfriends. He promised me that if we were together, he would change and stay faithful to me for the rest of his life.¡± Sandra spoke quickly, eager to defend Andres.


    ¡°I hope things turn out well for you.¡± Brenna left it at that. Sandra had fallen for Andres¡¯ charm and believed every word he said. No warning could shake her faith, so Brenna saw no point in persuading her.


    Brenna noticed something different in Sandra¡¯s eyes. They now carried a calm assurance, and when she looked at Sandra, the submissive expression she always had was gone.


    It seemed absurd, but a few ttering words from a man had given her a sense of confidence.


    Brenna had no desire to involve herself in Sandra¡¯s rtionship, and whether her parents cared or not was none of her concern.


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    In front of Brenna, Sandra lifted the bouquet to her face, drawing in the scent of the roses with an entranced smile.


    ¡°Thank you, Brenna. It¡¯ste, so you should rest now.¡± With that, Sandra turned and walked away.


    Closing the door softly, Brenna muttered under her breath, ¡°Andres doesn¡¯t treat only you this way. He says the same to every girl. One day, you¡¯ll regret believing him.¡±


    By noon the following day, Sandra made time to visit Keira, who was in the hospital.


    Keira was still hooked to an IV, though the doctors nned to send her home in two days to finish recovering there.


    Wanting to make things easier for her, Sandra had hired a caregiver. When she arrived, though, Keira was voicing her displeasure at the caregiver¡¯s service.


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 Chapter 1465

    ?Chapter 1465:


    ¡°My daughter pays you so much, and this is how you treat me?¡±


    ¡°This was what you asked for earlier, ma¡¯am. At eleven, I asked what you wanted, and you said pancakes. I even brought an extra soup for you. But now you¡¯re scolding me for bringing you this? I really don¡¯t know what to do anymore¡­¡± the caregiver said.


    Sandra stepped into the room with a bright smile. ¡°I brought you something special, Mom. It¡¯s from a famous high-end restaurant, and my boyfriend ordered it for you.¡±


    At once, Keira¡¯s eyes sparkled. She pushed the pancakes and soup toward the caregiver, eager to set them aside. ¡°You have a boyfriend now? When did that happen? Is he from a rich family?¡±


    Sandra ced the containers neatly on the table and opened them one after another, filling the air with a mouthwatering aroma.


    ¡°As if I, a member of the powerful Harper family, would settle for an ordinary man. Naturally, my boyfriendes from a wealthy family. We only met yesterday.¡±


    ¡°Your rtionship is progressing so fast! You really do know how to surprise me.¡± Keira grinned widely, her delight evident as her appetite grew at the sight of the meal.


    The sleek containers carried the Peace Restaurant¡¯s logo, making the dishes inside seem even more delicious.


    Keira said, ¡°It¡¯s been so many years since Ist tasted food from the Peace Restaurant. Back then, I was young, working as a servant for the Harper family. They held a grand banquet, and we staff ate whatever was left. The vor stuck with me all this time. Who would have thought you¡¯d let me try it again?¡± Sandra passed her a fork with a gentle smile. ¡°Go ahead and dig in. It looks wonderful.¡±


    ¡°Your boyfriend bought this? He must be very well-off. Tell him to take you there often, and don¡¯t forget to bring back something for me,¡± Keira said, fumbling slightly but adjusting well enough with her remaining hand.


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    ¡°Of course, I will. His name is Andres Stewart, and his family owns a number of businesses worth tens of billions. He is truly kind, and he even said he wanted to visit you soon.¡± Sandraughed lightly. With every word, her joy grew; she was certain she had found the right man.


    Sandra couldn¡¯t stop herself from thinking that if Andres had appeared in her life sooner, perhaps her mother might never have had to lose her left hand.


    ¡°His family has assets worth tens of billions? But how much does he personally manage? Is he the sessor to the family business?¡± Keira asked, eager for specifics.


    With a faint frown, Sandra replied, ¡°Mom, why must you always bring up money? I¡¯m with Andres because I love him. It¡¯s not because he is rich. Our feelings for each other are real.¡±


    ¡°Love? Real love is nothing but a fantasy. In this world, women chase money and men chase beauty. Both sides measure gains and losses before deciding to be together. Don¡¯t fool yourself; it¡¯s all a transaction.¡± Keira gave a mockingugh.


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 Chapter 1466

    ?Chapter 1466:


    ¡°How can you say that? People look down on me because I¡¯m an illegitimate child. They whisper in front of me, sneer at me, and throw me contemptuous stares. Yet, Andres is different. He treats me with kindness and respect, and he never once cared about my background. He truly loves me. He isn¡¯t the way you imagine¡­¡± Sandra defended Andres


    Keira chewed slowly, rolling her eyes as she spoke. ¡°Have you ever wondered why Andres is being so attentive to you? Shirie is filled with wealthy women and stunning girls, yet he chose you. A man with his wealth and status has met more beautiful women than you can imagine. Why you? If you don¡¯t figure it out, you¡¯ll only end up being tricked by him.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s face darkened. ¡°What nonsense is this? You sound exactly like the Harper family. Do you mean you don¡¯t want me to date a rich man, either? Remember, the food you¡¯re eating right now is courtesy of him.¡±


    Casting her daughter a sharp side nce, Keira pressed further. ¡°So the Harper family disapproves of your rtionship as well? What exactly did they say? Tell me everything.¡±


    Sandra hesitated, unwilling to reply. Ernst and Brenna had already warned her that Andres had been with countless women, and Lilith echoed the same. At first, she had dismissed it as nothing more than a rumor.


    Sleep had escaped herst night as Ernst¡¯s, Brenna¡¯s, and Lilith¡¯s words echoed in her mind. Restless, she had searched Andres¡¯s name online and stumbled across news iming he had split with a third-rate actress just the week before, evenpensating her with a hefty breakup fee.


    The actress was strikingly beautiful, someone Sandra recognized from films she had watched.


    She felt ufortable because of the news.


    From morning onward, she had kept waiting for a chance to bring the matter up with Andres.


    Before she could find the courage, however, Andres had sent lunch to her door and told her he would take her to a nightclub in the evening to introduce her to his circle of friends.


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    The thoughtful gesture had soothed her troubled heart. Everyone carried their own history, she reasoned, and Andres¡¯s past with that actress belonged to yesterday. As long as he treated her with sincerity moving forward, she chose not to hold it against him.


    Keira noticed the flicker of unease in her daughter¡¯s face and pressed again. ¡°Tell me. What exactly did the Harper family say?¡±


    ¡°With a touch of irritation, Sandra finally answered, ¡°They said my boyfriend is nothing but a notorious yboy in Shirie.¡±


    The words startled Keira. ¡°That won¡¯t do. A man like that is only toying with you. He isn¡¯t serious about being with you. You need to leave him at once.¡±


    Sandra pouted in defiance. ¡°No. Andres treats me well. The others are only jealous, unwilling to see me happy, so they make up stories. Once you meet him, you¡¯ll like him, too. I¡¯ll bring him to visit you someday.¡±


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 Chapter 1467

    ?Chapter 1467:


    She then let out a frustrated sigh. ¡°Do you know how hard it is to have a wealthy man take an interest in me? Stop picking everything apart. I¡¯m an illegitimate daughter. I don¡¯t really have the luxury of choosing among all the wealthy men in Shirie.¡±


    Keira sighed heavily. ¡°Why would you say something like that? Illegitimate or not, you¡¯re still a Harper. Do you realize how many people want to get close to the Harper family? You¡¯ll have no trouble finding someone to marry. Don¡¯t throw yourself at the first man who shows up. You¡¯re worth more than that. Promise me you won¡¯t sleep with him, okay?¡±


    Though Sandra bristled at her mother¡¯s words, she gave a reluctant nod. She knew Keira wasn¡¯t wrong. Even if her birth carried a stain, the Harper name still meant something, and there would always be men eager to marry her.


    Andres was not her only option.


    Besides, her mother was the only person who truly stood by her. She meant well.


    Sandra said, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll do as you say.¡±


    But Keira wasn¡¯t finished. ¡°Don¡¯t fool yourself into thinking he loves you. You¡¯ve known him for one day. How could love grow that quickly? Don¡¯t be naive. A man like that always has some hidden intention, even if you can¡¯t see it yet. You¡¯ll figure it out in time. Sincere men are rare, so stop believing you¡¯ve struck gold just because a rich man has noticed you.¡±


    Her eyes hardened as she looked at Sandra. ¡°Never forget your standing. Youe from one of Shirie¡¯s most powerful families. Anyone who courts you should have assets in the tens of billions. If this man is merely a son from a rich household without any im to inherit, then you cannot marry him. Do you understand? Don¡¯t let a man¡¯s charm blind you.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s heart was heavy. ¡°Mom, it¡¯s not that simple.¡± She sighed. ¡°I¡¯ve been part of the Harper family for a while now, and Andres is the only man who has shown any interest in me.¡±


    Keira¡¯s frustration bubbled over, her patience worn thin. If she had her hand, she might have struck Sandra. ¡°Why the rush? You¡¯ve got a life ahead of you. Even if you wait until your thirties, you¡¯re still a Harper; the name carries weight. Plenty of men would jump at the chance to win your heart and the Harper family¡¯s backing. Don¡¯t sell yourself short, rushing into the arms of just anyone. You¡¯re smarter than that!¡±


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    Sandra admitted she was a tad impatient. She had always dreamed that joining the Harper family would draw a crowd of wealthy admirers to her. But reality had painted a different picture, leaving her to question her charm. Deep down, she feared they shunned her because of her status as an illegitimate daughter. Like Brenna, she had returned to the Harper family after enduring hardships, yet their circumstances were not the same¡ªBrenna was Giselle¡¯s daughter, while she was born out of wedlock.


    It wasn¡¯t just about craving a rich suitor; it was about a gnawingck of confidence.


    Keira¡¯s lectures wore on, and Sandra¡¯s patience frayed. She snapped, ¡°Do you think I wouldn¡¯t love for someone like Ethan, the world¡¯s richest man, to be interested in me? But that¡¯s not happening, Mom, so please, enough already; your nagging is driving me mad!¡±


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 Chapter 1468

    ?Chapter 1468:


    ¡°I¡¯m only trying to look out for you. You¡¯re still young. What do you know? Not many men out there are trustworthy.¡± Keira, too, was upset, her appetite for the meal fading away.


    For days, Andres had been a steady presence, chauffeuring Sandra to work and back, each trip marked by a gift. During her breaks, he would show up with coffee, sparking envy among her colleagues who marveled at her attentive boyfriend.


    Sandra basked in the glow of his affection, her days wrapped in a sweet, contented haze.


    When Saturday arrived and Keira was discharged from the hospital, Sandra faced a dilemma¡ªthey had no car. Her heart swelled when Andres volunteered to pick up her mother.


    Ovee with gratitude, Sandra threw her arms around Andres, nting a soft kiss on his cheek. ¡°Thank you, darling. You¡¯re the kindest man I¡¯ve ever known,¡± she said, her words brimming with sincerity.


    Since Keira¡¯s return, the Harper family had shown little care toward her, but Andres asked about her daily, even sending her lunch.


    Seizing the moment, Andres pulled Sandra close, stealing a kiss right there at the bustling entrance of their residentialplex, not minding the passersby. The kiss was brief, and Sandra, cheeks flushing, gave his shoulder a yful swat. ¡°What are you thinking? We¡¯re in public!¡± she teased, her embarrassmentced with delight.


    Andres let out a chuckle, his eyes sparkling with mischief. ¡°Let them stare¡ªthey¡¯ll only be green with envy. Come on, love, hop in the car. Let¡¯s go pick up your mother.¡±


    As Sandra slid into the car, her gaze fell on a collection of elegant gift boxes nestled in the backseat. Her heart fluttered¡ªshe knew Andres had picked them out for her mother, a thoughtful gesture.


    Keira had stayed in the hospital for days, yet the Harper family hadn¡¯t spared a single thought for her. Corinna hadn¡¯t evene back to the country, and her son had called the police.


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    At the hospital, Sandra guided Andres into her mother¡¯s ward, her voice bright with pride when she spoke to her mother. ¡°Mom, this is my boyfriend, Andres.¡± Andres offered Keira a courteous smile. ¡°A pleasure to meet you.¡±


    Keira¡¯s eyes flicked over him, taking in his polished appearance. At around thirty, Andres was strikingly handsome, his tailored suit and gleaming watch hinting at wealth and refinement.


    Yet, Keira¡¯s expression remained cool. Sandra had told her that Andres, while holding shares in the Stewart Group, was overshadowed by his brother, the heir. In Keira¡¯s mind, Andres paled inparison to someone like Ethan. She only gave a brisk nod as acknowledgment.


    Andres, ever astute, caught the chill in Keira¡¯s demeanor instantly. It didn¡¯t faze him¡ªKeira wasn¡¯t a Harper, so her opinion of him carried little weight. ¡°I¡¯ve got the car ready. Let me take you home.¡± With a gracious smile, Andres stepped forward, reaching for the luggage


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 Chapter 1469

    ?Chapter 1469:


    Sandra leaned toward Keira and whispered, ¡°Please show a little respect.¡±


    Keira scoffed, her tone sharp. ¡°Respect? Why should I respect someone like him? He isn¡¯t even the heir to his family¡¯s business. That fortune of his will run dry one day. I¡¯ve told you before¡ªdon¡¯t rush to get into a rtionship. Take your time, or you¡¯ll regret your choice.¡±


    From the doorway, Andres caught every word. A sneer curved his lips as he said, his voice mocking, ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter if you dislike me. I don¡¯t care for you, either.¡±


    Many people bent over backward to curry favor with him. Those who didn¡¯t were usually powerful men like Ernst or Denis, never someone like Keira. How dare she¡ªa woman known only for gambling¡ªlook down on him?


    Even if she was the mother of the woman he liked, she had no right to pass judgment on him.


    Keira¡¯s fury red as she shot Andres a re. ¡°How dare you talk to me that way?¡±


    She whirled toward Sandra in outrage. ¡°See? I warned you he was trouble, but you refused to listen¡ª¡±


    Sandra saw Andres¡¯s rising temper and feared her mother¡¯s words would ruin her rtionship with him. She quickly interjected, ¡°Please, that¡¯s enough. You were being harsh with him first. You should apologize to him.¡±


    ¡°Apologize? As your mother, I have every right to criticize him. If he can¡¯t take that, then he shouldn¡¯t be with you. You¡¯re a member of the Harper family. He isn¡¯t good enough for you!¡± Keira eximed.


    Andres shrugged, tossing the bag in his hand aside. With one brow arched and a dangerous edge in his voice, he said, ¡°You don¡¯t have to like me. I can walk away. But who gave you the right to look down on me? Did you forget? You were nothing but a servant of the Harper family before. What right do you have to be so arrogant?¡±


    He directed his scorn at Keira alone, sparing Sandra because he still wanted to be with her for a while longer.


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    As for marrying her? He had already dismissed the thought. Sandra, as far as he was concerned, was only an illegitimate daughter, unworthy of marrying him. With that, Andres turned on his heel and walked away.


    Keira shouted after him in fury, ¡°Disrespectful brat! Where are your manners? Yes, I was a servant before, but I raised a member of the Harper family. You¡¯re nothing; get out of here!¡±


    Sandra¡¯s brows drew tight as she said, ¡°Why would you say such things? How could you insult him like that?¡±


    Keira turned to her. ¡°And how dare you talk back to me? Everything I¡¯m saying is for your sake. Look at how rude he is to me already. Do you really think he¡¯ll treat you well once you¡¯re married? I won¡¯t allow you to be with him!¡±


    Sandra felt cornered. Her mother was stubborn. If her mother disapproved, there was no persuading her otherwise. Yet she was no longer a child bound by her mother¡¯s will. ¡°Stop meddling. No one in the Harper family objects to me being with Andres, so why should you? I don¡¯t need your interference.¡± Their quarrel trailed with them down the stairs, neither willing to back down.


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 Chapter 1470

    ?Chapter 1470:


    Once they reached the ground floor, Sandra found that Andres had truly left.


    She dropped her things onto a chair and quickly dialed his number to apologize. She called several times, but he never picked up.


    ¡°Look what you¡¯ve done. He is upset now and won¡¯t pick up my calls,¡± she said to Keira.


    Keira let out a sharp breath. ¡°Leave him be. If he truly cares about you, he¡¯ll be the one to call you.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s nerves frayed. ¡°I finally have a wealthy boyfriend. Why do you keep talking him down? Do you want me to lose him? Why are you like this?¡± Her frustration spilled over, and another quarrel broke out between Keira and her.


    After what felt like forever, they managed to g down a taxi. Sandra brought Keira back home but didn¡¯t bother making her lunch. She left in a rush, determined to find Andres and offer a proper apology.


    By then, Andres had taken a seat at the Imperial Bar, knocking back drinks with a few friends.


    ¡°That old hag dares to look down on me? Who does she think she is?¡± Andres growled, venting his anger.


    One of his friends, Decker Robertson, slid a drink into his hand. ¡°Andres, I can send a few guys to rattle her tonight. Let¡¯s see if she still dares to look down on you after that.¡±


    Andres curled his lip in disdain. ¡°Why would I bother plotting revenge against an elderly woman? Not worth my time.¡±


    His phone buzzed abruptly¡ªSandra¡¯s name shed across the screen once more.


    He showed the disy to his friends, who erupted in amused chuckles. Decker, always eager to curry favor with Andres, said, ¡°Sandra is clearly calling to apologize to you. Don¡¯t let her off the hook so easily, Andres. Make her sweat a little¡ªshe needs to know you¡¯re angry with her mother.¡±


    Andres merely nodded, his eyes fixed on the ringing phone, not answering the call.


    Sandra tried calling Andres several times, each attempt met with silence, until she finally gave up.


    ¡°My mother was out of line! Even if she doesn¡¯t like Andres, why confront him so boldly?¡± she muttered.


    Opening Facebook, she searched for Andres¡¯ ount and crafted a heartfelt apology, but her message was also unanswered.


    Her nned outing with Andres now seemed like a distant dream, canceled by the rift.


    Sandra went to a local supermarket to pick up groceries and essentials before heading home, her mind still tangled in the day¡¯s drama.


    She couldn¡¯t really ignore her mother.


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 Chapter 1471

    ?Chapter 1471:


    Keira¡¯s house had stood empty for some time, so Sandra dedicated hours to scrubbing it spotless.


    After that, she and her mother sat down. Sandra sighed. ¡°Mom, you really upset Andres today. He¡¯s ignoring my calls and messages now. It took me ages to find a boyfriend, and now my rtionship with him is ruined because of you.¡±


    Keira, unfazed, replied coolly, ¡°If you two part ways, it¡¯s for the best. He is not worthy of you. Who does he think he is? The Harper family is in a league of its own, and he dares to ignore your calls and messages like this? Mark my words¡ªgive him a day without contact, and he¡¯lle crawling back. Don¡¯t stoop to chasing him. You¡¯re a Harper¡ªonly someone extraordinary is fit to be your boyfriend. Andres doesn¡¯t measure up.¡±


    Though Keira¡¯s words stung with their bluntness, Sandra couldn¡¯t ignore the truth in them. As a member of the prestigious Harper family, she had no need to grovel before Andres, whose own lineage paled inparison.


    After mulling it over, she resolved to heed her mother¡¯s advice.


    ¡°Mom, since you have only one hand, daily tasks must be a struggle for you. Shall I hire someone to take care of you?¡± Sandra said.


    Keira waved off the suggestion. ¡°No need for that. I can manage just fine with one hand. Why squander money when you¡¯re not exactly rolling in it? I¡¯ll get by.¡± When Sandra departed, she left two thousand dors for Keira, cautious not to leave more, lest her mother fritter it away on gambling.


    Back at the Harper family house, dinner was underway. Sandra greeted each family member warmly before taking a seat beside Brenna.


    The mood at the table was noticeably somber, with Giselle¡¯s expression particrly dark.


    Shepard reached into his coat and produced a bank card, sliding it toward Sandra. ¡°Here is ten million dors for your personal use,¡± he said. ¡°Let¡¯s put an end to any talk that the Harper family is mistreating you.¡±


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    Sandra sat frozen, her eyes wide with disbelief as she looked at Shepard. The Harper family was actually offering her money¡ªa gesture that left her reeling. ¡°Dad, I¡¯ve never spoken ill of the family,¡± she said softly, her voice tinged with sincerity.


    A realization dawned on her; their grim expressions might stem from whispers they had caught, rumors that had soured their moods.


    Was Shepard offering her money because of the pressure of the rumors? If that was true, did that mean the Harpers¡¯ resentment toward her had deepened?


    With a gentle push, she slid the bank card back across the table. ¡°Dad, I truly don¡¯t need it. My expenses are few, and the family provides everything I could want. Honestly, I don¡¯t need the money.¡±


    Shepard¡¯s face clouded, his brow furrowing. ¡°Keep it,¡± he said, his tone firm. ¡°You¡¯re still my daughter, and it¡¯s only proper for me to support you. But you must stop spreading nonsense. An old friend even asked me about it today. If it¡¯s not you telling everyone that you are mistreated, then who?¡±


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 Chapter 1472

    ?Chapter 1472:


    Sandra¡¯s lips pressed together for a moment, her heart sinking. ¡°I swear, it wasn¡¯t me,¡± she murmured.


    Ernst¡¯s eyes shed with a spark of anger. ¡°Really? Then why is Andres broadcasting to the world that the Harper family leaves you without pocket money, a house, or a car? That you¡¯re denied shares and treated differently from Brenna?¡±


    Sandra didn¡¯t know what to say in response.


    After all, those ims were true


    Sandra¡¯s feelings toward Andres soured into resentment. She had trusted him with her secrets, thinking he was someone she could lean on, only to learn he had spread them around. The betrayal burned inside her.


    From now on, she told herself, she would keep her secrets locked away.


    ¡°I understand now. I won¡¯t repeat the mistake,¡± she said.


    Her eyes flicked around the room, stealing nces at the Harper family members. Each face carried disapproval, and the weight of it made her feel aggrieved.


    Giselle finally spoke. ¡°Take the money. Pick any car from the garage and use it for work. Stop crowding into buses and subways. If you can¡¯t drive, let the family driver take you. You¡¯re a member of the Harper family now, so act like one. Hold your head high, carry yourself with confidence, and prove your value.¡±


    Though her words had been sharp, Sandra epted the ten million with a steady heart. What a windfall.


    She now had ess to any car in the garage, and her ce within the Harper household was clearly improving.


    Burying her excitement, she said softly, ¡°I¡¯ve never driven before, so I¡¯ll stick to the bus for now.¡±


    ¡°Do as you please,¡± Giselle muttered, irritationcing her voice. ¡°If you need something, ask me, Ernst, or Brenna. We¡¯ll provide it. Just keep your mouth shut outside and don¡¯t tarnish the family¡¯s reputation.¡±


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    ¡°Okay, I understand.¡±


    This time, Sandra noticed Brenna hadn¡¯t spoken up for her, and she couldn¡¯t figure out the reason.


    Once she returned to her room, her first move was to transfer the money from the bank card into her own ount. She checked the bnce several times, confirming there was indeed an extra ten million sitting there.


    No longer would she need to secretly sell Rosie¡¯s things to scrape together cash.


    Now, she could spend freely and openly.


    How wonderful it felt.


    She didn¡¯t know who had spread those rumors, but she felt she owed them thanks.


    Without them, how else would she have ended up with such a fortune? Her heart bubbled with joy, and she began plotting a shopping spree the very next day¡ªnew clothes, stylish bags, and stacks of cosmetics.


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 Chapter 1473

    ?Chapter 1473:


    Yet when the morning came, she didn¡¯t rush out to shop. Instead, she waited for Brenna to wake up so she could ask for guidance on investing¡ªfunds, stocks, even gold. Anything that might grow her fortune.


    Brenna had always been skilled in that area.


    All Sunday, Andres never reached out to Sandra.


    With ten million in her ount, Sandra found herself agreeing with her mother¡¯s words. She deserved a man of higher standing. If Andres chose not to bother with her, so be it. She felt no interest in him anymore.


    On Monday morning, Sandra stood by and watched as the family left for work one after another. Shepard drove one car out of the garage, Giselle took another, and Brenna went to fetch hers as well.


    Sandra lingered at the garage entrance, her eyes fixed on the gleaming luxury cars. She had earned her driver¡¯s license after college, yet she had never actually driven before. These cars cost fortunes. If she scratched one, she might end up paying half her ten million just inpensation.


    After mulling it over, she chose not to risk it.


    The moment Brenna drove through the gate, Andres¡¯ car pulled up abruptly, blocking her path.


    Andres then stepped out in a crisp white suit, a rose in hand.


    The sight of him made Sandra¡¯s heart leap. The resolve she had built the night before to distance herself from Andres melted away at once.


    ¡°Andres!¡± she eximed with delight, dashing toward him as if no quarrel had ever passed between them.


    Behind her, Brenna honked the horn, signaling for Andres to move his car. Instead of stepping aside, Andres caught Sandra¡¯s hand and led her right up to Brenna¡¯s car.


    He said, ¡°Brenna, your mistreatment of Sandra is far too obvious. I just watched your parents drive off in luxury cars, and even your car is worth tens of millions. Just look at Sandra, crammed into buses and subways every day. How can you allow that? Don¡¯t you worry about what people will say? Even if she¡¯s an illegitimate daughter, your family has recognized her. She deserves to be treated like family, not like a servant.¡±


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    Andres¡¯ words cut hard.


    But Sandra¡¯s joy dimmed. To her, having him speak up this way didn¡¯t feel like kindness.


    She tugged on Andres¡¯ arm, murmuring, ¡°Stop talking.¡±


    But Andres moved closer and soothed her gently. ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid. Even as an illegitimate daughter, you should carry yourself with pride. I¡¯ll protect you. Don¡¯t let anyone push you around.¡±


    Had Andres uttered such words days ago, Sandra¡¯s heart would have fluttered with affection.


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 Chapter 1474

    ?Chapter 1474:


    Yet, the previous evening, after enduring the Harper family¡¯s sharp criticism and reflecting on Keira¡¯s counsel, Sandra had mulled over her predicament at length. She hade to see that confiding her innermost thoughts in Andres had been a misstep. His inability to guard a secret was ring¡ªevery whisper she shared found its way to the world¡¯s ears in no time.


    Such a man could hardly be trusted, and Sandra began to question the motives behind Andres¡¯ keen interest in her.


    After all, others dismissed her as an illegitimate daughter, casting her aside with cold indifference. Why, then, was Andres so persistently attentive to her? ¡°Don¡¯t speak that way. They¡¯re my family, and they treat me with kindness,¡± Sandra dered, resolving in that moment to tread more carefully, to heed her mother¡¯s wisdom, and to resist the charm of Andres¡¯ honeyed words.


    Andres was caught off guard by her words. Only days ago, this guileless woman had poured out her grievances about the Harper family¡¯s mistreatment of her, hanging on his every syble. But now, she had suddenly be smart enough to refute him?


    He began to see that Sandra was no ordinary woman¡ªshe possessed a sharp mind and a will of her own. She wasn¡¯t to be swayed as easily as others. He needed to change his strategy.


    With a tone of earnest sincerity, Andres began, ¡°I apologize, Sandra. I spoke out of turn. Don¡¯t take it the wrong way. It just strikes me as unfair that, with all their wealth¡ªBrenna alonemands billions¡ªyou¡¯re left without even enough to buy a car. If I were in your shoes, I would ask for a fair share. You¡¯re a Harper, too, after all. Their fortune is vast; surely you deserve a portion.¡±


    Sandra nodded thoughtfully. ¡°I see your point. But my dad is kind, and Mrs. Harper has been generous. Justst night, my dad gave me some money, and Mrs. Harper assured me I only need to ask if I require anything.¡±


    Andres flicked his gaze toward Brenna, whose eyes met his with icy disdain. Her hostility didn¡¯t faze him. In his experience, the more a family opposed a romance, the more fervently a woman clung to her suitor.


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    Brenna, with anguid lift of her brow, sized Andres up. She had encountered men like Andres before. His pursuit of Sandra wasn¡¯t driven by a hunger for the Harper family¡¯s


    Wealth; Andres had no need for their fortune, nor any familial burdens to bear. No, his chase was fueled by the thrill of conquest.


    She despised this kind of man most of all¡ªthe type whovished women with gifts and attention, only to cast them aside the moment they gave him their heart.


    The actress who had recently parted ways with him still pined for him publicly on social media, a testament to his skill at manipting women.


    ¡°Are you going to say we only gave her money because of the pressure from the public?¡± Brenna¡¯s voice was sharp, her suspicions deepening. She wondered if Andres had a hand in the recent wave of damning rumors swirling around the Harper family.


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 Chapter 1475

    ?Chapter 1475:


    Yet, she doubted he had the mind to orchestrate such a scheme. The true puppet master behind the matter remained a mystery.


    Andres let out a soft chuckle. ¡°Isn¡¯t that the truth? How much did you give her? A hundred thousand? A million? Do you honestly believe that¡¯s enough to make amends for all Sandra has endured?¡±


    Sandra gently tugged at Andres¡¯ sleeve, her voice urgent. ¡°You¡¯ve got it all wrong. My father isn¡¯t tight-fisted in the least. He gifted me ten million¡ªa fortune by any measure! Andst night, Ernst and Dalton slipped me some extra cash. I¡¯m far from strapped for funds now.¡±


    Brenna cast a subtle, knowing smile toward Andres, intrigued to see how he would stir the pot further.


    Andres stood momentarily speechless, caught off guard by the situation. He hadn¡¯t anticipated the Harper family setting aside their biases to shower Sandra with such generosity. He had thought that even if Shepard had opened his wallet, Giselle would likely have objected. But he had been wrong.


    What should he say next?


    ¡°Sandra, ten million is a drop in the bucketpared to what Brenna received when she first came back to the Harper family. How much wealth, how many properties, and how many shares did your father hand over to her? Do you have anything like that?¡± Andres said, certain that the Harper family would never entrust Sandra with shares or real estate.


    As he had expected, Sandra¡¯s face clouded for a moment, her enthusiasm dimming. ¡°Brenna and I aren¡¯t the same. Come on, I¡¯ll bete for work if we don¡¯t move.¡±


    ¡°What makes you so different from her?¡± Andres pressed, his tone sharp. ¡°You¡¯re both the daughters of the Harper family, aren¡¯t you? Why the double standard? Sandra, you¡¯re too kind¡ªthat is why they walk all over you.¡±


    Sandra mulled over Andres¡¯ words, torn by the sting of truth hidden inside them. She¡¯d heard the staff gossiping¡ªBrenna got a lot more when she came home than just a check for ten million. That left Sandra with a nagging sense of unfairness, though she also knew Andres was saying that to drive a wedge between her and her family.


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    Even so, he had a point, leaving her at a loss for words.


    Andres couldn¡¯t resist pushing further. He smirked and said, ¡°You call that generosity, Brenna? Ten million might not mean much to you, but for Sandra, it changes everything. You used that to get her to feel gratitude toward you. You im you treat her like a sister, but you roll up in cars worth a fortune while Sandra would have to wait at the bus stop if I didn¡¯t pick her up. Does that sound fair to you? It doesn¡¯t.¡±


    Without missing a beat, Brenna pointed toward the garage. ¡°She can drive any car in there. She was the one who chose not to drive one.¡±


    Sandra could see that Brenna¡¯s patience was wearing thin. She¡¯d rather Andres get upset than let Brenna be mad at her. She hurried to exin, ¡°You¡¯re getting it wrong, Andres. Dad told mest night I could use any car I wanted, and if I wasn¡¯tfortable, I could ask the driver to take me anywhere. I just chose not to do that.¡±


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 Chapter 1476

    ?Chapter 1476:


    Andres turned to her, squeezing her hand. ¡°Then why not, Sandra? Do you have any idea how lucky you are? The Harper family¡¯s cars make anything I own look ordinary. You¡¯d turn heads everywhere you went if you drove one.¡±


    A flush of embarrassment crept up Sandra¡¯s cheeks. ¡°Honestly, it¡¯s not that I¡¯m turning down the offer. It¡¯s just that I haven¡¯t driven since I got my license years ago. The thought of driving makes me nervous.¡±


    Andres clicked his tongue in disapproval. ¡°Then ask the driver to take you. Why make life harder than it needs to be when your family has all these perks?¡±


    Sandra gave him a small smile. ¡°I just don¡¯t want to be a bother. Public transport¡¯s always worked for me, and I¡¯ve gotten used to it.¡±


    Andres shook his head, frustration edging into his voice. ¡°You¡¯re always worried about everyone else. Has anyone ever stopped to ask how you feel?¡±


    Trying to put an end to the conversation, Sandra gently pulled him toward his car. ¡°Let¡¯s go. I don¡¯t want to bete for work.¡±


    Still muttering under his breath, Andres finally gave in and opened the passenger door for her, then slipped behind the wheel and drove off.


    While the city sped by outside, Andres wasn¡¯t ready to let the subject drop. ¡°You¡¯re content with that ten million, but do you have any idea what Brenna received from the Harper family when she came back?¡±


    Sandra hesitated for a moment before answering, ¡°I know she got a lot more than me.¡± Even if she tried to hide it, a hint of envy still crept into her words. But the difference between their ces in the Harper family was impossible to ignore.


    However, the gap between what she received and what Brenna was given was too big.


    Andres reached over and squeezed her hand. ¡°I swear, I¡¯ll make sure you get your fair share from the Harper family. They¡¯re not going to walk all over you anymore.¡± He loved nothing more than making the woman he was with turn against her family.


    Sandra pulled her hand away, shaking her head. ¡°Please don¡¯t cause trouble for them. Things are fine the way they are. I can use any car I want, and my father gives me enough money.¡±


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    Andres frowned. ¡°You never ask for much, Sandra. But tomorrow, I want you to drive yourself to work. The family said you could, so you should take the opportunity. If you¡¯re a Harper, act like one. Don¡¯t make people think less of you.¡±


    Sandra managed a small smile. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll drive myself tomorrow.¡±


    At the office, Brenna¡¯s bad mood was impossible to hide, and Lorna caught it right away. ¡°Ms. Harper, is something wrong? Why are you in a bad mood?¡±


    Brenna raised an eyebrow. ¡°Is it that obvious?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. It¡¯s written all over your face,¡± Lorna replied with a knowing nod.


    ¡°I want you to dig up everything you can on Andres Stewart. Leave nothing out,¡± Brenna instructed, her tone firm. Sandra was clever, but she might still be manipted by someone like Andres.


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 Chapter 1477

    ?Chapter 1477:


    ¡°I¡¯ll get started right away,¡± Lorna said, already turning to leave.


    As soon as Lorna left, Brenna picked up her phone and called Ethan, asking him to investigate Andres as well


    The following morning, Sandra lingered at the edge of the garage, her eyes trailing after three gleaming vehicles as they rolled out of sight. Five remained, lined up like jewels, each carrying a price tag in the millions.


    ¡°Darrell, which one costs the least?¡± Sandra asked. She had not even chosen yet, and already her palms were slick with sweat, her legs unsteady beneath her.


    Darrell lifted his hand toward a polished Audi. ¡°That one. Just a little over three million.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s the least expensive one?¡± Sandra was shocked. ¡°It¡¯s worth more than three million!¡±


    She remembered Andres¡¯ car falling in the same range.


    Darrell gave a short nod. ¡°For the Harper family, that counts as cheap.¡±


    Sandra lingered in thought, Andres¡¯ words echoing in her head. After weighing it, she let her pride win. How could she lower herself to take the least expensive car?


    Her choicended on a car that better suited a young woman¡¯s taste.


    It carried a price close to ten million, its exterior design understated while the interior shone with luxury. The safety system was unmatched. The moment she settled into the seat, she felt how different this car was from Andres¡¯. She spent some time fussing with the seat controls until she finally found afortable position. Then she gripped the wheel, her movements cautious, though her foot pressed the elerator harder than she intended. Thankfully, the courtyard was wide, and the guards kept their distance, sparing anyone from harm.


    After struggling for quite some time, Sandra finally rolled the car out of the gates. Since she had not driven in years, she kept reminding herself not to speed up, and soon, her pace was so slow that it could barely outmatch an electric bicycle.


    Your escape begins with ga ln ov els .


    She edged onto the main road, where the morning rush filled everyne. The sight of so many cars made her grip the wheel tighter, her nerves stretched thin. When the light ahead switched to red, her body stiffened, and in her panic, she pressed the wrong pedal.


    With a loud crash, her car mmed into the vehicle in front, shoving it hard enough to strike the one beyond.


    The sound jolted her. She clutched the wheel as though it were her only anchor, frozen and uncertain of what to do.


    Both drivers of the two cars in the front stepped out to examine the mess. The back of each car was crushed, ss scattered from broken lights, and the hood of the car just ahead of Sandra¡¯s was bent out of shape.


    Sandra nced at her own vehicle. Built with custom reinforcements, it had endured the blow without a single dent.


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 Chapter 1478

    ?Chapter 1478:


    Just then, a sharp knock on the car window jolted her out of her daze. She knew nothing about cars¡ªtheir makes or their worth meant little to her. The only thing clear in her mind was that she had caused the crash and would have topensate the people involved.


    Her savings came to nearly twenty million, and she convinced herself that would be enough to settle the damage. ¡°I¡¯m prepared to cover the expenses,¡± she said.


    Noticing her calm politeness and realizing she was only a young woman, the two car owners chose not to cause a scene. One of them, a man in his forties, said, ¡°Miss, if you don¡¯t know how to drive, you shouldn¡¯t be driving. With a car like that, shouldn¡¯t you have a chauffeur or two at your service?¡±


    Sandra pressed her teeth against her lip, suddenly wishing she had let the family¡¯s driver take her.


    ¡°All the drivers were sent out with other family members today. How do you want to settle this?¡± Sandra said.


    The two men gave Sandra a quick once-over and quickly sensed she would be easy to push around. The middle-aged man spoke first. ¡°You don¡¯t look like you¡¯re strapped for cash. My car isn¡¯t exactly cheap. Just give me a million aspensation.¡±


    The second driver eyed the car ahead, barely worth over a hundred thousand, yet he brazenly demanded a million.


    His model had set him back just past three hundred thousand, but he demanded without shame, ¡°Give me two million for the damage.¡±


    The outrageous figures made Sandra falter. The thought of parting with three million from her savings left her reluctant.


    From the way the two men carried themselves, they didn¡¯t strike her as cruel or dangerous, yet the damage looked limited to a bent hood and dented rear ends. Thepensation they demanded seemed absurd.


    ¡°The cost for repair can¡¯t really be that much, can it?¡± Sandra asked. Cars weren¡¯t her specialty, but she wasn¡¯t a fool, either. It was obvious they were trying to take advantage of her.


    Stay updated g?ln¦Ò¦Íe??s


    With her doubts settled, she dug into her bag, scrolled through her contacts, and dialed Andres without hesitation. ¡°Andres, I got into a car ident,¡± she said.


    ¡°What? Did you get hurt?¡±


    At that moment, Andres lounged in avish private room at the Imperial Bar, a ss in hand and friends scattered around the table. On either side of him leaned women dressed in revealing outfits.


    He pressed his phone to his ear, his voice a bit troubled. ¡°Sandra, I¡¯m tied up right now. I¡¯m with Mr. Begum from Plomond, and I really can¡¯t step away. Most carse with insurance, so just follow the process. Call the traffic police and let the insurancepany deal with the matter.¡±


    Across from him, Decker lifted a thumb in approval, his grin wide.


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 Chapter 1479

    ?Chapter 1479:


    It was obvious Andres wasn¡¯t buried in business at all. The talk of Mr. Begum was only a cover, an excuse to remain here, entertained by the women. He even leaned into the one at his side, brushing his lips against hers. Her hand slipped lower, fingers creeping past his waistband in a deliberate tease.


    ¡°Just take care of it for now. I¡¯ll finish up with Mr. Begum soon, and we¡¯ll push the business talk to another day,¡± Andres added a touch of false worry to his voice. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. If I have to abandon this seventy million deal for you, then so be it. I¡¯lle right away if you need me.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s heart tightened. How could she ask Andres to walk away from such a massive deal over something as small as her car ident?


    She rushed to answer, ¡°No, keep working. I can deal with the matter on my own.¡±


    Andres kept up the act, his tone dripping with concern. ¡°Are you really sure? I ought to be the one driving you. See what¡¯s happened¡ªthe very first time you drove on your own, you got into a car ident. How can I not worry about you?¡±


    ¡°I understand. I¡¯ll be more careful from now on.¡±


    Sandra ended the call and let out a breath, her thoughts already shifting. Her eyes moved to the two car owners, who were starting to show signs of impatience.


    The middle-aged man pressed her impatiently. ¡°Come on, pay up. I have to get to work, and time lost on the job isn¡¯t free. If you keep stalling, you¡¯ll have topensate me for that, too.¡±


    Sandra cast them a sharp look from the corner of her eye. ¡°Why are you asking me for that much money? Do you really think your cars are worth such a price? Don¡¯t assume I don¡¯t know their value.¡±


    The two men exchanged uneasy nces. Finally, the middle-aged one said, ¡°Fine, you only need to give me eight hundred thousand. Pay that, and I¡¯ll leave. You don¡¯t have to call the police or the insurancepany.¡±


    They were convinced she would prefer to avoid the police.


    But Sandra knew better. Calling the police meant the damage would be judged fairly. After her talk with Andres, she had already formed a n. Fixing her eyes on the man, she replied without hesitation, ¡°Let¡¯s bring in the police and the insurancepany. The insurance should cover it, and I¡¯llpensate for anything beyond that.¡±


    When the two men realized they couldn¡¯t squeeze money from her, their tempers red. ¡°Look at what you¡¯ve done to our cars. Insurance won¡¯t cover it all. You¡¯ll have to pay extra for the repairs and for the time we¡¯ve lost.¡±


    Sandra shot back, her voice edged with anger, ¡°Stop spouting nonsense. Once the police and insurance get here, we¡¯ll follow their judgment. And if you still try to push me, I¡¯ll have awyer deal with you.¡±


    Their earlier show of friendliness no longer fooled her. She could see their real intent in as day¡ªthey were trying to take advantage of her.


    Within ten minutes, the shing lights of the police car and the insurance team arrived at the scene.


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 Chapter 1480

    ?Chapter 1480:


    One of the insurance agents stepped forward and asked Sandra, ¡°Is this your vehicle?¡±


    Sandra felt a chill run through her as the weight of the situation hit her. This car wasn¡¯t hers.


    Darrell¡¯s words came back to her¡ªthis particr car belonged to Brenna, who rarely drove it herself. She usually favored another vehicle.


    ¡°No, it¡¯s not,¡± she said.


    ¡°In that case, we¡¯ll need the owner present,¡± the insurance agent replied. He began snapping photos of the scene while the police took notes and carried out the routine inspection.


    Left with no other choice, Sandra pulled out her phone to call Brenna. ¡°Brenna, I¡¯ve had a car ident. The insurance team says you need toe here.¡±


    Brenna had just arrived at herpany when Sandra¡¯s call forced her to turn back and drive over.


    The two men were clearly unhappy. With both the police and the insurance team present, their chance to squeeze more money from Sandra had slipped away.


    Still, the middle-aged man wasn¡¯t ready to give up. Convinced Sandra was easy prey, he lit a cigarette and slipped one toward the insurance agent. ¡°Just look at the damage I¡¯ve taken. Don¡¯t you think she should pay more? She clearly isn¡¯t short on money.¡±


    The agent let out a chuckle. ¡°And how much exactly are you hoping to get?¡±


    The middle-aged car owner leaned closer and said slyly, ¡°Why don¡¯t you let her pay me a hundred thousand? I¡¯ll hand you twenty thousand after I get the money.¡±


    The insurance representative shook his head and cast a nce at Sandra, who looked uncertain and overwhelmed. Believing she had no grasp of the situation, he spoke. ¡°That won¡¯t work. Your car¡¯s current value is only around a hundred and thirty thousand, and it¡¯s been running for several years already. Thepany can¡¯t possibly approve that much. If you¡¯re aiming for more money, you might want to strike a private deal with the car owner. That way, you could get a little extra.¡±


    Keep reading g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s


    The car owner nodded in agreement, lowering his voice. ¡°Exactly. What I mean is, you should push her toward a private settlement instead of going through insurance. That way, I¡¯ll get more out of this, right?¡±


    ¡°My colleague is present, and doing that could breach our rules.¡± The insurance representative stood firm, unwilling to bend.


    Realizing he wouldn¡¯t seed, the car owner turned directly to Sandra. ¡°Look at my car. The damage is heavy, front and back. The insurance won¡¯t cover it all. Back when I purchased this car, I paid three million for it. What they¡¯ll pay me is far too little, so you¡¯ll need topensate me extra.¡±


    Sandra might not have known much about cars, but she was far from gullible. Her brows furrowed as she examined the vehicle. She circled it once, then pulled out her phone, recording a quick video and sending it to Andres. ¡°Can you tell me how much this car is actually worth? The owner insists he paid three million dors for it.¡± She then sent a voice message.


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 Chapter 1481

    ?Chapter 1481:


    The car owner stiffened almost instantly. Clearly, this woman wasn¡¯t as naive as he assumed.


    Not long after, Andres¡¯s reply came through.


    ¡°Don¡¯t fall for it. He¡¯s lying. That model is a cheap one, barely worth over thirty thousand.¡±


    Sandra turned back to the man, her expression icy. ¡°My boyfriend says your car isn¡¯t worth much.¡±


    She eyed him with clear disdain, noting how his outfit looked in and was worth less than a thousand.


    Nearby, the other car owner spoke with the insurance representative about his own damages. At first, he considered squeezing Sandra for money as well, but the moment he saw her calling someone for help, he quickly gave up on the thought.


    Sandra might not have been familiar with cars or the procedures after a car ident, yet her elegant car and refined appearance made it obvious she was wealthy¡ªand not an easy target.


    The middle-aged man, failing to get his way, grew visibly irritated. Checking his phone, he muttered, ¡°It¡¯s already nine o¡¯clock. I¡¯mte for work now, so you¡¯ll have to pay for my wasted time. You need to give me twenty thousand for that.¡± Since he couldn¡¯t extort a hundred thousand, surely he could get twenty thousand?


    Right then, Brenna pulled up, and Andres arrived as well.


    ¡°Sandra, are you alright?¡± Andres asked quickly, concern in his eyes as he looked her over. ¡°You didn¡¯t get hurt, did you?¡±


    Sandra¡¯s heart warmed at his words. She looked at him and said softly, ¡°Weren¡¯t you in the middle of an important business negotiation? You don¡¯t need to worry. I can handle this on my own.¡±


    Turning toward her sister, she added, ¡°Brenna is here. She can help me manage everything. You should go back so you won¡¯t miss your business opportunity.¡±


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    Andres responded with a gentle smile, taking Sandra¡¯s hand into his. ¡°You are what matters the most. Money can wait. I can earn it again. Leave this matter to me. You don¡¯t need to stress over it.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s chest swelled with happiness. ¡°You¡¯re always so good to me!¡±


    Brenna rolled her eyes at their disy and turned her attention to the car. She had designed the car herself, and it did not let her down. Despite the heavy collision earlier, the car was fine¡ªwithout even a scratch.


    She finished speaking with the traffic officers, then wrapped up her discussion with the insurancepany, leaving her contact details.


    Brenna turned to the two car owners. ¡°Those two cars up front belong to you, correct?¡±


    The younger of the two nodded quickly, his manner respectful. From the way Brenna carried herself, he realized she was different from the wealthy woman earlier¡ªshe was far more refined.


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 Chapter 1482

    ?Chapter 1482:


    ¡°Yes, I own a restaurant. If this is just a simple rear-end case, insurance should cover everything. If it can¡¯t, I¡¯ll reach out. Would you mind sharing your contact information?¡± he said.


    Reaching into her pocket, Brenna pulled out a business card and handed it over. ¡°Of course. If anythinges up, don¡¯t hesitate to call me.¡±


    The man epted the card, and as his eyes swept across it, admiration lit his expression. ¡°So you¡¯re from the Harper family¡ªone of the four great families in Shirie. Miss Harper, it¡¯s an honor to meet you. I¡¯m Dvan Reid.¡±


    The young car owner presented his business card with both hands, offering it to Brenna with a courteous smile.


    ¡°Miss Harper, you¡¯re wee to dine at my restaurant anytime. It¡¯s quite upscale, perfect for hosting events. I¡¯ll even offer you a twenty percent discount.¡±


    Brenna nced at the card and recognized the name of the seafood restaurant she frequented. She smiled warmly. ¡°I¡¯ve been to your ce several times. The seafood there is quite good.¡±


    They exchanged pleasantries for a while before the young car owner said, ¡°Honestly, my car just lost its rear bumper. It¡¯s no big deal.¡±


    The middle-aged car owner, overhearing this, realized the luxury car owner was indeed someone of significant wealth.


    Once the traffic police and insurance adjusters had left, the young car owner drove off.


    The middle-aged car owner, visibly irked, turned to Brenna. ¡°Miss Harper, look at my car¡ªit¡¯s a mess! Plus, I¡¯mte for work. Shouldn¡¯t youpensate me for lost wages?¡±


    Brenna nodded calmly. ¡°Fair enough. How about a thousand dors to cover that?¡±


    She sensed a hint of greed in the man, a stark contrast to the young car owner¡¯s straightforward demeanor, and it grated on her nerves.


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    As she had expected, the middle-aged man scoffed. ¡°A thousand dors? You think that¡¯s enough? Your family¡¯s loaded, and after this ident, that¡¯s all you offer? You should give me at least a hundred thousand!¡±


    Brenna let out a sharp, humorlessugh. ¡°Are you trying to extort me? A hundred thousand could buy your entire car! Show me proof of your monthly ie, or I¡¯m not paying a dime.¡±


    Frustrated and failing to get his way, the man said angrily, ¡°So you¡¯re bullying me because you¡¯re rich? Pay up,dy, or I¡¯ll drag you to court!¡±


    ¡°Sue me if you like; I don¡¯t care,¡± Brenna shot back.


    Andres stepped forward, his toneced with warning. ¡°Extortion, huh? Do you even know who you¡¯re dealing with? If I were you, I¡¯d take the thousand and walk away quickly.¡±


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 Chapter 1483

    ?Chapter 1483:


    Brenna turned to Sandra, softening her voice. ¡°Don¡¯t stress about driving. The more you practice, the more confident you¡¯ll get. Don¡¯t let this get to you.¡±


    Sandra, expecting¡­


    A reprimand for causing trouble on her first drive, flushed with embarrassment. ¡°You¡¯re not upset with me?¡±


    ¡°Not at all,¡± Brenna reassured her. ¡°Now hurry to work¡ªit¡¯s gettingte.¡± She nced at Andres, then slid into her car and drove off.


    Andres gave Sandra¡¯s car a light pat. ¡°Nice ride. Is this one of the custom-built luxury cars from the Harper family?¡±


    Sandra nodded. ¡°Yeah, Darrell said it¡¯s one of a kind. Incredibly expensive.¡± Standing close to Andres, she caught a whiff of alcohol and a strong hint of women¡¯s perfume. Her expression cooled instantly, and she stepped away from him slightly.


    It was only nine in the morning. Who would drink at a business meeting this early?


    Sandra¡¯s displeasure surged. Andres must have lied to her¡ªhe¡¯d likely been at a bar, possibly all night, and the perfume suggested he hadn¡¯t been alone.


    Her face hardened, her anger clear.


    ¡°I need to get to work. Thanks for your help today,¡± she said tly.


    Andres reached for her hand to stop her. ¡°What¡¯s wrong, honey?¡±


    Sandra pulled away sharply. ¡°Nothing. I¡¯m justte for work. I don¡¯t have time to talk.¡±


    She then climbed into her car and sped off.


    Andres watched her car disappear into traffic, muttering, ¡°What got into her? Did she figure something out?¡±


    His phone buzzed, and seeing Loretta Mendez¡¯s name, he answered with a hint of impatience.


    Stay connected at g?ln¦Ò¦Í????s?c?m


    ¡°We¡¯re done, Loretta. Why are you still calling me? I paid you plenty for the breakup.¡±


    Loretta, a third-tier actress with modest earnings and fleeting fame, was undeniably striking.


    ¡°Andres, I love you,¡± she said in a soft voice. ¡°I can¡¯t let you go. I¡¯m waiting for you at the hotel. Pleasee.¡±


    Her sultry voice melted Andres¡¯s annoyance, and he chuckled softly. ¡°Alright, honey, I¡¯m on my way.¡±


    Years of chasing women had sharpened Andres¡¯s instincts, and he immediately sensed that Sandra¡¯s displeasure came from noticing something she wasn¡¯t meant to.


    He had just walked out of the Imperial Bar after spending time with two women whose perfume clung stubbornly to his clothes. Sandra must have caught the scent.


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 Chapter 1484

    ?Chapter 1484:


    While driving toward the hotel, he dialed Sandra¡¯s number.


    ¡°Sandra, why were you upset just now?¡± he asked, his voice warm and patient, coating each word with charm.


    Another thought crossed his mind¡ªhe hadn¡¯t contacted her over the weekend, which might have added to her anger.


    From what he had learned over the years, women could be upset for the smallest of reasons. In the end, it never mattered why¡ªthey were never wrong, and the man always had to carry the me.


    He said, ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have met with Mr. Degum today. You don¡¯t know how he is. He only likes to talk business in ces like bars, surrounded by women. I couldn¡¯t avoid it if I wanted to close the deal. But believe me, Sandra, my heart belongs to you alone. If I¡¯m lying, may the worst misfortune fall on me.¡±


    Sandra gripped the steering wheel, her chest aching as she listened. ¡°Don¡¯t say things like that. I trust you.¡±


    A sneer curved Andres¡¯s lips, though his voice poured out like honey. ¡°I have to say it. Your silence and your doubt wound me more than death. If anything troubles you, tell me. If I¡¯m wrong, I¡¯ll change. I don¡¯t want you to be upset, sweetheart. Let me make it up to you with a gift. How about dinner tonight? Tell me which restaurant you¡¯d like to go to, and I¡¯ll take you there.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s spirits lifted. ¡°I saw a lipstick I really liked. All the lipsticks I have are hand-me-downs¡ªI don¡¯t even own one of my own yet¡­¡±


    She went on about borrowing other people¡¯s leftovers, her voice carrying a pitiful note.


    Andres caught her meaning at once. Pleasing her would not be difficult. A little money could settle it.


    ¡°Honey, whatever brand you like, I¡¯ll buy all the new releases for you. You can choose any shade you want,¡± he said.


    ¡°Thank you. I¡¯m not even sure if Shirie carries this brand, but the colors are so lovely,¡± Sandra replied. She had heard stories of Andres spending freely on other women, and¡­


    Stay tuned for more g¦Áln¦Ò¦Í??s.c¡ðm


    She wanted to test whether he was truly sincere about giving her a gift or just skilled at talking sweetly.


    She told Andres the brand name.


    Andres chuckled. ¡°I know this brand. Excellent choice, darling. It¡¯s an internationalbel, known for sophistication and style. You have such refined taste.¡±


    After lifting Sandra¡¯s spirits, he ended the call.


    By lunchtime, Sandra received a lunch delivery arranged by Andres. The food was delicious and beautifully packaged, and the restaurant¡¯s name printed on the box marked it as one of the city¡¯s most exclusive ces. Her colleagues looked on with envy while she enjoyed the meal.


    Meanwhile, Andres was nowhere near Sandra. Instead, he was in a hotel room with Loretta.


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 Chapter 1485

    ?Chapter 1485:


    Loretta had a stunning figure and unmatched skill in bed. Out of all the women Andres had been with, she stood out in that regard.


    So, when she had called, he hade over instantly.


    ¡°Andres, you promised to marry me. Why haven¡¯t you kept your word?¡± Loretta asked.


    While still having sex, Andres answered, ¡°Of course we¡¯ll get married. Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll handle the arrangements, and we can meet each other¡¯s parents.¡±


    Loretta¡¯s face lit up. ¡°Really? Then let¡¯s do it tonight!¡±


    ¡°Not tonight. My parents are upied with other matters. They¡¯re busy right now. I¡¯ll speak with them and find a time that works. Trust me; I¡¯ll make sure everything is arranged perfectly,¡± Andres replied.


    Loretta pouted. ¡°You always say that. You¡¯re just stalling.¡±


    In the afternoon, Ethan came to pick up Brenna from work.


    ¡°I don¡¯t have any business engagements on my schedule tonight. Why don¡¯t we go grab dinner together?¡± Ethan asked as his eyes drifted to Brenna¡¯sputer screen, where the design draft was beginning to take shape.


    ¡°Sounds good.¡± Brenna cast a critical eye over the design draft, a sense of dissatisfaction settling over her. ¡°What¡¯s your take on this autonomousbat vehicle?¡± she asked.


    Ethan¡¯s gaze lingered on the design as he said, ¡°What features are on the client¡¯s must-have list?¡±


    Seeing the earnest expression on his face, Brenna realized he truly wanted to give her his best advice. She replied, ¡°The main thing is that it has to be able to carry drones and robot dogs and handle missions deep in enemy territory.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s gaze lingered on the design once more, his fingering to a decisive tap on the top section. ¡°That weapon mount has to be lighter, and you have to push the range to its absolute limit. I know the military will spare no expense in abat scenario, but it¡¯s still paramount that it can return to base on its own.¡±


    Ethan had always admired Brenna. Her design skills were almost unparalleled globally. The aircraft systems and robot dogs she designed were already being mass-produced and had even been deployed in the field.


    Brenna nodded in agreement. ¡°You are right. We also need to carefully consider the material for the vehicle. It has to be light, but we also have to keep costs down.¡±


    Ethan went over her design in detail, offering many valuable suggestions. It was well past seven, with dusk having long since settled, when they finally left the office and headed to a restaurant for dinner.


    Ethan took Brenna to a very upscale restaurant.


    As soon as they arrived on the third floor, Brenna¡¯s eyes instantly found Sandra and Andres at a table there.


    Arge gift box and a sprawling bouquet of roses were on their table.


    .


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    .

 Chapter 1486

    ?Chapter 1486:


    Sandra was excitedly opening the gift box, revealing eighteen lipsticks in different shades from the international brand she liked. Each one was a small fortune, costing over ten thousand dors.


    These eighteen lipsticks were all the brand¡¯s new releases for this year.


    ¡°Honey, I love them so much! You¡¯re so good to me.¡±


    Brenna watched Sandra getting emotional over a few lipsticks and couldn¡¯t help but think that, as a member of the Harper family, Sandra shouldn¡¯t be so thrilled by something like that.


    She was really easy to please. It made sense why someone like Andres found her appealing and pursued her so eagerly.


    She was an easy target.


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell, Miss Harper, your reserved table is this way,¡± the waiter said, leading Brenna and Ethan to a spot diagonal from Sandra.


    Sandra immediately caught sight of Brenna and, unable to resist, hurried over with the gift box in her hands. ¡°Brenna, look at this! Andres bought me theplete set of Orly lipsticks. The cheapest one is over ten thousand dors, and every shade is absolutely stunning.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s lips curved into a faint smile. ¡°Those lipsticks aren¡¯t really considered high-end. I ordered a few from Valport, and they will be arriving in a few days. I¡¯ll give you two when theye.¡±


    When Sandra heard Brenna¡¯s dismissive tone, her excitement faded. She pulled the lipsticks back, her mood dampened. ¡°I know a ten-thousand-dor lipstick means nothing to you, even feels cheap. But to me, it¡¯s a treasured gift.¡±


    Brenna couldn¡¯t stomach Sandra¡¯s demeanor. ¡°Sandra, for Andres, the cost of these lipsticks is a mere drop in the ocean. Don¡¯t let him fool you.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s expression also became grave. He couldn¡¯t stand by and watch Brenna¡¯s family fall prey to a smooth-talking yboy. He took out his phone and showed Sandra a photo.


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    The photo showed Andres lounging in a private room, drinking with Decker, nked on either side by two women who were kissing him.


    A dark cloud passed over Sandra¡¯s face, but she still came to Andres¡¯s defense. ¡°I know. This was this morning, right? He was entertaining clients for business. This is unavoidable.¡±


    Ethan countered, ¡°I have business engagements nearly every day, yet I have never needed women hanging on my arm. He is feeding you lies. He wasn¡¯t discussing business this morning.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s irritation red. ¡°I know you have always looked down on Andres. With your lofty status, it¡¯s no shocker that you despise him. But that doesn¡¯t give you the right to nder him. All that matters to me is how he treats me.¡±


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 Chapter 1487

    ?Chapter 1487:


    Sandra¡¯s eyes shed with barely contained fury as she regarded Brenna and Ethan, her resentment bubbling beneath the surface. To her, they were insufferable, poking their noses into affairs that didn¡¯t concern them. What was worse, they seemed to revel in their own bliss while begrudging anyone else a sliver of happiness.


    Such people were, quite frankly, maddening.


    Initially, Sandra had held Brenna in high regard, thinking she was a kind person. But now, she disliked Brenna.


    It seemed to her that no one wanted her to be happy.


    Yet a lingering gratitude toward Brenna held Sandra¡¯s tongue in check. Brenna had been the first Harper to extend a hand of warmth to her, and for that alone, Sandra refrained from saying anything harsh.


    The urge to snap, ¡°Keep your nose out of my business,¡± surged within her, but she swallowed it down at thest second.


    Brenna, observing Sandra¡¯s defiant posture and her fierce loyalty to Andres, felt a pang of frustration.


    Truth be told, she wasn¡¯t one to meddle. Under normal circumstances, she would have turned a blind eye to Sandra¡¯s potential heartbreak at Andres¡¯s hands.


    What did it matter to her if Andres yed Sandra for a fool?


    But a thread of shared history tethered Brenna to Sandra,pelling her to speak when she would rather have stayed silent. However, now, she didn¡¯t want to care about this anymore.


    Her expression hardened, her voice cutting like a de. ¡°If you¡¯re so set on defending Andres, I won¡¯t say anything. If you believe Andres is a good man, then so be it.¡±


    Sandra caught the anger carved into Brenna¡¯s features, and a flicker of unease stirred in her chest.


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    Still, to shield herself from future meddling from her family, she offered no apology.


    Ethan, sensing Brenna¡¯s ire, couldn¡¯t help but see Sandra as ungrateful. Never one for sugarcoating, he spoke inly. ¡°If you won¡¯t heed your sister¡¯s advice now, don¡¯te crying to us when Andres leaves you heartbroken. We won¡¯t say another word about your rtionship with him from now on.¡± With a dismissive wave, he added, ¡°Step aside. Your presence is grating.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s cheeks burned with humiliation.


    Theirck of respect for her, especially in front of Andres, cut deep. ¡°You¡¯ll see,¡± she dered. ¡°I¡¯ll find my happiness sooner orter.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s lips curled into a cold smile. ¡°Then I wish you all the happiness in the world,¡± she said.


    Sandra felt the hollowness of Brenna¡¯s blessing, her heart brimming with unspoken retorts. But this was neither the time nor the ce for that¡ªshe would save her words for home.


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 Chapter 1488

    ?Chapter 1488:


    Biting her lip, she turned on her heel and walked away.


    Ethan, soothing Brenna, said, ¡°Someone like her is bound to learn the hard way. Don¡¯t waste your energy on her¡ªshe doesn¡¯t see what is in her best interest. In time, she¡¯ll rue her choices and realize we only meant to help.¡±


    His voice carried, each wordnding like a stone in the ears of Sandra and Andres, who were within earshot.


    Andres, far from offended, felt a spark of smug satisfaction. Unable to resist, he sauntered over to Ethan, his swagger unmistakable.


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell, you may intimidate others, and even my father might tip his hat to you, but I see nothing extraordinary about you. A few extra coins in your pocket don¡¯t give you the right to meddle in our lives. What makes you think you can judge me as a bad person?¡±


    Ethan remained unfazed, refusing to stoop to a quarrel. Yet he was determined not to let Andres get too smug. ¡°Do you know that the Imperial Bar is my establishment?¡± he said.


    Andres¡¯s eyes widened in astonishment. He hadn¡¯t anticipated that Shirie¡¯s most opulent and impably managed bar belonged to Ethan.


    A wave of unease washed over him as he reflected on his behavior in the bar. Had Ethan uncovered every detail of his conduct?


    Swiftly regaining hisposure, Andres retorted, ¡°So what if you own that ce? I¡¯m a paying customer. You can¡¯t simply bar me from your premises, can you?¡±


    Despite his words, he silently vowed never to cross the threshold of the Imperial Bar again. He felt utterly exposed now, as though his every secret had been stripped bare.


    ¡°What if I choose to deny you entry?¡± Ethan replied, his toneced with disdain for such brazen provocation.


    With a deft motion, he presented Andres with a photograph capturing him in thepany of several women.


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    Andres¡¯s temper red instantly. ¡°Even if the Imperial Bar is yours, you have no right to spy on your customers! Aren¡¯t you worried about alienating your clientele, Mr. Mitchell?¡±


    Ethan¡¯s lips curled into a mocking smile. ¡°Care to guess who sent me this photo?¡±


    ¡°Get lost!¡± Ethan uttered, his tone cold and unyielding.


    Andres caught the steely glint in Ethan¡¯s eyes, a shiver of apprehension running through him. He was all too aware that his family¡¯s influence paled inparison to Ethan¡¯s. Persisting in defiance could spell trouble not only for him but also for his entire family.


    With a heavy heart, he turned away, his mind racing with questions about who might have covertly sent those photos of him to Ethan, betraying his trust.


    Back at his table, he noticed Sandra¡¯s mood had soured once more. The box of premium lipsticksy untouched, and the extravagant bouquet of roses failed to draw even a fleeting nce from her. Her expression was one of cold fury.


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 Chapter 1489

    ?Chapter 1489:


    ¡°Sweetheart, don¡¯t let Ethan¡¯s words get to you,¡± Andres said. ¡°He is just envious of our bond, of how much I cherish you. He can¡¯t stand to see you happy.¡±


    Sandra, having just defended Andres in front of Brenna and Ethan, couldn¡¯t openly question him with them still present.


    Forcing a smile, she replied, ¡°I¡¯m not upset, darling. I trust youpletely. Those photos are clearly fabricated.¡±


    Inwardly, Andres smirked, knowing Sandra was too concerned about her image to show her true feelings in public. Despite her inner turmoil, she pretended to be calm.


    He had braced himself to cate her, but it seemed that was unnecessary.


    With a smug nce at Ethan and Brenna, he reveled in his apparent victory. ¡°Honey, I knew you would stand by me,¡± he said tenderly. ¡°What would you like to eat?¡±


    Though anger simmered beneath her calm facade, Sandra held it back. Her strategy now was to indulge in Andres¡¯s wealth, selecting the priciest dishes on the menu.


    But Andres, unfazed by the cost, paid no mind to the extravagance.


    It was nearly eleven in the evening when Brenna finally returned home. Sandra arrived home at almost the same moment. No sooner had Brenna stepped into her room than Sandra knocked on her door and entered.


    ¡°Brenna, I want to talk to you,¡± Sandra said with earnest sincerity.


    Brenna, however, remained aloof, her usual warmth reced by cool detachment.


    ¡°I understand you were upset with me today,¡± Sandra continued, ¡°but I¡¯ve chosen Andres, and I want to trust him. It¡¯s no different from the faith you ce in Mr. Mitchell.¡±


    Brenna folded her arms, her expression impassive. ¡°Your decisions are yours to make. I won¡¯t meddle in the future. Your happiness, orck thereof, is no concern of mine. If there is nothing more you want to say, leave. I need to rest.¡±


    M¦Òr? ¦Ôpd¦Át?s ¨ªn G¦Áln¦Òv?ls.c¦Òm


    She didn¡¯t want to waste another second on Sandra.


    Sandra, unwilling to leave without rifying her stance, didn¡¯t give up.


    It was evident that Brenna was upset.


    Sandra couldn¡¯t bring herself to offend the only person in the family who was genuinely good to her.


    ¡°That is not what I meant,¡± she said softly. ¡°I only wanted to share that I truly believe Andres loves me, and I¡¯m confident we¡¯ll have a happy future together. Even if his work requires him to socialize with women, I shouldn¡¯t question his loyalty. Surely you understand, Brenna? Business often demands suchworking. Doesn¡¯t Mr. Mitchell engage in simr activities?¡±


    She looked at Brenna with unwavering resolve, yearning for her understanding. Brenna¡¯s lips curled into a faint, sardonic smile. ¡°Believe whatever suits you,¡± she said. ¡°I have no opinion to offer. And as for Ethan, you¡¯re in no position to pass judgment on him.¡±


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 Chapter 1490

    Chapter 1490:


    Seizing the moment to bridge the gap, Sandra spoke quickly. ¡°You wouldn¡¯t appreciate others meddling in your rtionship, and neither do I. But I know your concern for mees from a good ce, and I don¡¯t hold it against you. Let¡¯s stay close, like true sisters. Include me in your gatherings and events in the future, won¡¯t you?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s eyes narrowed slightly. ¡°So, after all that talk about keeping out of your affairs, you still want the perks of my connections. Do you think you can get everything you want?¡±


    Sandra¡¯s heart sank, a wave of disappointment washing over her as she realized her n might have failed.


    ¡°I¡­¡± she began, faltering.


    Brenna, unmoved, pulled a pair of pajamas from her wardrobe, her tone dismissive. ¡°I¡¯m about to shower. Please see yourself out.¡±


    Refusing to let the conversation end, Sandra pressed on, saying, ¡°Brenna, that is not what I meant. I only want to say that I trust my judgment about Andres. He¡¯ll leave his old ways behind for me. He is every bit as great as Mr. Mitchell.¡±


    Returning to her room, Sandra nced at the array of lipsticks and thevish bouquet of roses, her heart untouched by their allure.


    After a shower, she settled at her vanity, gazing at her reflection¡ªstunning and poised, draped in luxurious designer pajamas. Yet, despite her seemingly charmed existence, why had fate entangled her with a yboy?


    The photo from Ethan¡¯s phone lingered in her mind¡ªAndres nked by women in revealing clothes, their lips pressed to his cheeks in brazen affection.


    Her conviction grew that Andres was far from honorable, and with each passing thought, her indignation red.


    So, she left his goodnight message unanswered.


    Even when she slept, her dreams betrayed her, painting Andres as a faithless man surrounded by countless women, eventually jolting her awake.


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    The following morning, Sandra¡¯s expression was shadowed with displeasure.


    At breakfast, she noticed Brenna¡¯s unaffected demeanor and Giselle¡¯s lively chatter andughter.


    ¡°Good morning,¡± she greeted them warmly, her voice carrying a hopeful note.


    Their replies reassured her, making her believe that Brenna had let go of the previous night¡¯s discord.


    A wave of relief washed over her.


    As she strolled out with Brenna after breakfast, Sandra could no longer suppress the question that had gnawed at her through the night.


    ¡°Brenna, was the photo Mr. Mitchell showed mest evening genuine?¡± Her voice wavered with doubt. She suspected Ethan might have fabricated the photo, yet its vivid rity made it look real.


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    .<hr>


    Message from Noah: Sorry for the dy, dear ones. I wanted to bring as many chapters as I could¡ªthere were 18 novels, so it was a lot to go through. Still, I hope you enjoyed the chapters. God loves you, and Noah wishes you all the best. (?O?=)? ?


    .

 Chapter 1491

    ?Chapter 1491:


    After a restless night, she had resolved to confirm it with Brenna. Brenna¡¯s response was cool. ¡°What do you think? If you doubt us, why bother asking me that?¡±


    With that, she slid into her car and told her driver to go.


    A sudden recollection struck Sandra¡ªshe hadn¡¯t properly thanked Brenna for helping her with yesterday¡¯s car ident.


    Hurrying to the car, she tapped on the window.


    Brenna¡¯s expression was icy as she lowered the car window. ¡°Is there something else?¡±


    ¡°Thank you for sorting out the car ident yesterday,¡± Sandra said with a faint smile, believing a simple gesture of gratitude sufficed.


    Brenna, unmoved, resolved not to help Sandra in the future.


    ¡°No need for thanks,¡± she replied curtly.


    At that moment, Sandra¡¯s phone chimed with a message from Andres.


    Hey in Loretta¡¯s bed, groggy, thinking about his promise to drive Sandra to work. Exhaustion pinned him to the sheets.


    ¡°Darling, head to work on your own today. I can¡¯t drive you this time. An international meeting kept me up till dawn. I am drained and need to rest now. I will go see you at noon.¡±


    Tossing his phone aside, Andres drew Loretta closer, sinking back into slumber.


    Loretta waited until Andres¡¯ breathing turned steady before opening her eyes and checking his phone.


    The lock screen password remained unchanged from before, granting her easy ess.


    She saw Andres¡¯ messages with Sandra. Her expression darkened.


    It was evident Andres was invested in pursuing Sandra, showering her with morning and evening greetings,vish gifts, shared meals, and shopping excursions¡ªhis attentiveness surpassing even what he had once shown her.


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    Fury simmered within Loretta. Though she knew Andres¡¯ nature all too well, the sight of her lover wooing another woman still ignited a ze of resentment.


    She scrolled through the entire chat history, her anger intensifying with each message.


    A gnawing fear gripped her¡ªSandra, hailing from the esteemed Harper family, had a social stature that could easily lead to a marriage with Andres.


    Setting the phone aside, Loretta was lost in thought, sleep slipping further from her grasp as she schemed to nudge Sandra out of the picture.


    Suddenly, an idea sparked. She nestled into Andres¡¯ embrace, smoothed her hair, let the kiss marks on her neck show, and guided his arm around her waist.


    Then, she snapped a series of photos of them in bed using her own phone.


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 Chapter 1492

    ?Chapter 1492:


    She finished her tasks with care, then picked up Andres¡¯ phone once more, found Sandra¡¯s contact, and added her. Satisfied, she returned Andres¡¯ phone to its ce and drifted back into slumber.


    Meanwhile, Sandra, immersed in her work that morning, resisted the urge to check her phone until lunch hour. Resolute, she vowed not to respond to Andres, determined to see whether he would recognize his misstep and make amends


    As Sandra scrolled through her messages with Andres, a pang of disappointment tightened in her chest. Ever since his message about lunch, there had been nothing from him. Her face cooled, her heart sinking under the weight of an unspoken letdown.


    A pending friend request blinked at her until she finally clicked it open. The message that appeared knocked the breath out of her. ¡°I¡¯m Andres¡¯ girlfriend.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s anger shot through her veins like fire. Without hesitation, she epted the request, fingers ready to respond.


    ¡°And how exactly can you prove you¡¯re Andres¡¯ girlfriend?¡±


    Loretta¡¯s lips curled into a smug grin when she received Sandra¡¯s message. Exactly as she expected¡ªSandra had taken the bait.


    Triumph danced in her eyes as she carefully selected a few scandalous snapshots of herself and Andres¡ªmoments in bed, captured with precision¡ªand hit send.


    As if that weren¡¯t enough, she added one more photo: a picture of the rumpled sheets, evidence of the passion they had shared.


    Just then, Andres strolled out of the bathroom, towel in hand, drying his hair. He noticed Loretta¡¯s glowing expression. ¡°What has you smiling like that?¡± he asked.


    With practiced ease, Loretta set her phone aside. ¡°I was just thinking¡­ about dinner. What should we have?¡±


    Andres tossed the towel aside and instinctively reached for his own phone. Empty. Not a single message from Sandra.


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    His brow furrowed. Dealing with a pampered heiress wasn¡¯t as simple as he had thought, but that only made the game more thrilling.


    Loretta knew full well whose message he was waiting for, but she yed dumb, masking her spite with a yful smile. ¡°I¡¯m craving foie gras at Rosehaven. Will you take me there tonight?¡±


    Andres slipped his arms around her waist. ¡°Sweetheart, not tonight. I¡¯ve got a business dinner with Mr. Watts to go over a project. Rain check, alright? You need to understand that I¡¯m busy.¡±


    Loretta pouted, lips pressing together. ¡°You¡¯re not lying to me, are you? You¡¯re not sneaking around with another woman?¡±


    Andres tapped Loretta¡¯s nose lightly, his expression softening.


    His voice dripped with charm. ¡°Nonsense. We¡¯re about to get married. You¡¯re the only one for me.¡±


    Once, those words would have set Loretta¡¯s heart aflutter. But now, they didn¡¯t sway her. She knew better¡ªAndres was just saying it for show, and he would never marry her.


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 Chapter 1493

    ?Chapter 1493:


    Her heart no longer stirred because of him.


    She put on her innocent act and shifted to what really mattered¡ªmoney. ¡°You do talk sweet. I¡¯m running out of money. Could you give me some?¡±


    Andres was never stingy. With women, his wallet was as open as his smile. Almost every request was granted without a second thought.


    Without hesitation, he wired fifty thousand into Loretta¡¯s ount.


    Loretta nced at the figure and wrinkled her nose, unimpressed. ¡°Fifty thousand? Please, this barely covers one purse. I want a million.¡±


    Andres chuckled softly, amused by her audacity. ¡°Alright, alright. Whatever you want, you¡¯ll have. After all, you¡¯re about to be my wife.¡±


    A millionnded in Loretta¡¯s ount momentster. Andres had always believed that any woman he shared a bed with deserved to be treated like his wife¡ªand wives were to be provided for.


    Loretta smiled in satisfaction at the sum and nted a kiss on Andres¡¯ cheek. ¡°Darling, you¡¯re so good to me. I love you.¡± Whether or not Andres ever put a ring on her finger, one thing was clear¡ªhe was generous to a fault, and that alone was enough reason for her to cling to her rtionship with him.


    Being only a minor celebrity, she had little hope of achieving real fame; securing a wealthy partner was her most practical path forward.


    Even if Andres had a revolving door of women in his life, it hardly bothered her. As long as money kept flowing into her ount, she was more than willing to turn a blind eye to everything else.


    After freshening up, Andres strode out the door without a second nce.


    Not long after, Loretta forwarded Sandra a screenshot of the transfer.


    ¡°See this? Andres just sent me a million.¡±


    The sight of the transfer sent Sandra into a tailspin. Her fury boiled over, and in a fit of rage, she hurled her phone to the floor, shattering it into pieces.


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    At that very moment, Andres tried calling her, but because her phone was broken, he couldn¡¯t reach her.


    Only then did the truth m into Sandra like a cold wave. Ethan¡¯s words from the night before, the photos he had shown her¡ªthey were all true. Andres wasn¡¯t a devoted lover; he was a shameless yboy.


    Her heart hardened with resolve. She would cut ties with Andres for good and, when she got home, apologize to Brenna.


    After work, she bought herself a new phone. Soon, she found it flooded with dozens of frantic messages from Andres. Without a second thought, she blocked his number


    On her drive home from work, Sandra felt a crushing wave of humiliation. If the Harper family discovered Andres¡¯ infidelity, they would surely taunt and belittle her without mercy. Sitting inside her car, she dreaded the thought of returning home.


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 Chapter 1494

    ?Chapter 1494:


    But where else could she go?


    Just then, she remembered that her mother had recently been discharged from the hospital. Keira might be struggling to manage on her own. With that realization, Sandra resolved to visit her.


    Though Keira¡¯s legs were unaffected, the loss of her hand made every task daunting. From chores to cooking, everything had be a challenge.


    Before heading over, Sandra stopped at the supermarket, buying fresh fruits, vegetables, and a selection of ready-to-eat meals.


    Upon entering Keira¡¯s ce, Sandra was struck by the disarray. Shattered bowls littered the floor, spilled food stained the table, and torn garbage bags left trash scattered everywhere.


    Keira sat on the sofa, tears streaming down her face.


    ¡°Mom!¡± Sandra¡¯s heart ached at the sight. Rushing to her side, she noticed food and soup sttered across Keira¡¯s clothes.


    Keira¡¯s sobs grew louder. ¡°Sandra, you¡¯re here atst. With only one hand, I can¡¯t do anything properly¡­¡±


    Pointing to the chaos, she murmured, ¡°Am Ipletely useless?¡±


    Sandra, already weighed down by her own turmoil, felt tears sting her eyes at Keira¡¯s anguish. Guilt surged within her¡ªshe felt like a neglectful daughter. She knew Keira struggled with only one hand, yet she had left her alone.


    ¡°No, Mom, it¡¯s my fault for not being there for you. I¡¯m so sorry¡ªI should have taken better care of you.¡± Sandra¡¯s sorrow overwhelmed her, and all her pent-up emotions spilled out.


    After their shared tears subsided, Sandra sprang into action. She helped Keira bathe and change into fresh clothes.


    Then she tackled the mess, restoring order to the house before preparing dinner.


    At the table, Sandra noticed Keira¡¯s difficulty adjusting to her condition. Her left stump instinctively moved to steady the te, deepening Sandra¡¯s heartache.


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    ¡°I¡¯m staying here tonight to look after you,¡± Sandra dered. Determined, she resolved to remain with Keira until a caregiver could be arranged.


    Keira protested immediately, saying, ¡°No, you can¡¯t stay here. Your home is with the Harper family¡ªhow can you abandon it?¡±


    Sandra shook her head resolutely. ¡°No, Mom. You need someone now. I can¡¯t leave you alone. If I hadn¡¯te home today, you wouldn¡¯t even have had dinner.¡±


    ¡°No!¡± Keira¡¯s tone sharpened. ¡°Don¡¯t you understand me? Has Shepard given you any money?¡±


    After seeing Keira¡¯s pitiful state, Sandra considered revealing the nearly twenty million in her ount. But fear that Keira might demand money for gambling held her back.


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 Chapter 1495

    ?Chapter 1495:


    After a pause, she said, ¡°No, Mom. Don¡¯t worry about money. It¡¯s not something I can fix quickly. I need to gradually earn the Harper family¡¯s trust. Over time, they¡¯lle around and support me.¡±


    Keira scoffed, ¡°What a heartless man Shepard is. He ims you¡¯re family but won¡¯t give you a cent. He doesn¡¯t see you as his daughter. I need to figure something out¡ª¡±


    Sandra interjected quickly, ¡°Mom, let me handle it. I understand the Harpers¡¯ mindset now. I¡¯ll win them over slowly, and they¡¯ll provide for me eventually. Let¡¯s focus on your future ns instead.¡±


    Keira¡¯s mood darkened, her frustrations mounting. Injured and down eleven million, she felt her life was in shambles. Even though her daughter had be a member of the Harper family, she lived worse than a servant in their home. The Harper household staff earned generous wages¡ªlikely more than Sandra had ever received. Despite being Shepard¡¯s daughter, Sandra navigated her life with humility and caution.


    Seeing Keira¡¯s regretful expression, Sandra hesitated, tempted to disclose her real financial situation. But after a moment, she held back, choosing to maintain her facade of poverty.


    She said, ¡°Mom, I can take an advance on my sry from thepany. I¡¯ll hire someone to care for you. I can¡¯t stand the thought of you struggling alone.¡±


    Keira nodded. ¡°Alright. I can¡¯t manage by myself. I spill food when I eat and make a mess when I try to throw out the trash¡­¡±


    After finishing her meal, Sandra cleared the table, then went online to look for a caregiver for her mother. Once she confirmed someone would arrive at eight the next morning, she headed out.


    Keira walked Sandra downstairs, and the moment her eyesnded on the luxury car, her spirits soared. All her earlier sulking vanished like smoke in the wind. She practically squealed with delight. ¡°Wow! You didn¡¯t even tell me about this car! Pulling up in something like this¡ªyou need to drive it around the wholeplex so those nosy neighbors stop mocking me¡­¡±


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    She ran her hand along the sleek body of the car. ¡°I knew Shepard couldn¡¯t be that cold-blooded to you. Just wait¡ªhe¡¯s bound to loosen the purse strings sooner orter. This is fantastic. You¡¯re finally going ces, and I¡¯ll never have to worry about money again.¡±


    ¡°Alright, Mom, I really should get going.¡± Sandra transferred a thousand dors to Keira¡¯s ount. ¡°If the caregiver doesn¡¯t show up tomorrow, don¡¯t bother cooking. Just order takeout, and forget about cleaning¡ªeither wait for me or hire someone by the hour.¡±


    Keira bobbed her head, grinning. ¡°Got it. Drive safe, sweetheart.¡±


    Back at the Harper residence, the entire household had already turned in for the night, servants included. Sandra realized with a pang that not a single soul had called to ask why she was homete.


    In fact, she thought bitterly, even if she stayed out all night, the Harpers wouldn¡¯t care.


    .


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 Chapter 1496

    ?Chapter 1496:


    That realization hardened her heart. Why bother feeling grateful or yearning for their approval when they were this cold to her?


    So be it¡ªshe would take full advantage of the Harper fortune without losing a wink of sleep.


    Still, at least this way, no one in the family would know she had been duped by Andres, and no one wouldugh at her.


    When Sandra returned to her room, Cecily appeared with a ss of warm milk.


    Sandra asked casually, ¡°Did anything happen at home today?¡±


    Cecily¡¯s chin tilted ever so slightly, her demeanor tinged with arrogance. Even though she was just a servant, she still looked down on Sandra. ¡°A Mr. Stewart stopped by to see you around seven, a bouquet of roses in hand.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s heart skipped, anxiety bubbling up. A dozen scenarios shed through her mind. Had the Harper family uncovered the truth? ¡°What was he doing here?¡± she asked.


    ¡°He said he had arranged dinner with you tonight, came to fetch you,¡± Cecily replied icily, her eyes sharp with judgment. To her, Sandra was making a fool of herself by being involved with the wrong sort of man.


    ¡°So what did you tell him? And why on earth didn¡¯t anyone think to call me and inform me of that?¡± Sandra bristled. She might not like Andres anymore, but this matter still involved her. The Harper family should have told her.


    But they hadn¡¯t bothered to call her. They clearly didn¡¯t care about her at all.


    Cecily¡¯s voice turned sharper. ¡°Your brother happened to be home at that time. He drove Mr. Stewart away and told him never toe back.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s temper red hotter. Andres hade to see her, and without even asking her about it, the Harper family had driven him away. ¡°Who gave him the right to chase Andres away without asking me?¡± she snapped at Cecily.


    Cecily was clearly displeased. ¡°Miss Harper, your brother said Mr. Stewart is trouble. A Harper family member like you shouldn¡¯t associate with him.¡±


    Although Sandra had already decided to cut ties with Andres, the Harper family¡¯s high-handed move of dismissing him without consulting her still left her simmering with annoyance.


    Cecily continued tly, ¡°If that is all, I¡¯ll take my leave.¡±


    Once alone, Sandra pulled Andres off her cklist, only to be greeted by a flood of messages from earlier that afternoon¡ªsharine words mixed with money transfers, all designed to win her back.


    Her anger spiked. Did he really take her for some lovesick fool?


    Without a second thought, she fired off a curt reply. ¡°We should break up.¡±


    Then, with finality, she tossed Andres right back onto the cklist.


    It wasn¡¯t even ten in the evening yet, so she made her way to Brenna¡¯s room.


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 Chapter 1497

    ?Chapter 1497:


    Brenna was still seated before herputer, sketching out a design. The moment Sandra stepped inside, Brenna snapped herptop shut, her expression frosty.


    Her eyes narrowed as she asked, ¡°Is there something you need?¡±


    Sandra¡¯s tone softened, her expression earnest. ¡°Brenna, I¡¯m sorry. I was wrong. I shouldn¡¯t have quarreled with you yesterday.¡±


    Brenna couldn¡¯t understand why Sandra hade to apologize. It wasn¡¯t as if Sandra had suddenly realized what a maniptor Andres was.


    Brenna¡¯s icy attitude made it clear she believed the apology was nothing more than a ploy to regain the Harper family¡¯s support. As the only Harper who had ever backed Sandra, Brenna scoffed at the idea that her remorse might be genuine.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to say sorry to me,¡± Brenna stated tly, with no intention of epting the apology or offering Sandra any help in the future. Sandra¡¯s fate was no longer her concern.


    ¡°No,¡± Sandra replied, sensing Brenna¡¯s frostiness and feeling deep remorse. What had she done to upset Brenna so much? Had Brenna given up on her?


    She couldn¡¯t let that happen; she needed Brenna¡¯s support, no matter what.


    ¡°Brenna, I see my mistake now. You were right about Andres being a yboy. I was blind before. I shouldn¡¯t have questioned you. Please forgive me!¡±


    She then showed Brenna the photos Loretta had sent. ¡°Look at these.¡±


    Brenna nced at them, then finally noticed the sorrow and regret in Sandra¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°Good that you see it now. Don¡¯t forget, you¡¯re a member of the Harper family. Plenty of worthy men will pursue you. Andres isn¡¯t worth your time.¡±


    With that, Brenna turned back to herputer, diving into her work and dismissing Sandra.


    Sandra wanted to say more but realized mending things tonight was impossible. Pressing further would only irritate Brenna. She would try againter.


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    At eleven in the evening, while most people were winding down, Andres felt his night was just beginning.


    At a club, he was surrounded by friends, drinks, and attractive women, enjoying himself.


    He looked at his phone, typing a message to Sandra, a cigarette hanging from his lips, his face twisted in irritation. ¡°I can¡¯t believe she blocked me!¡±


    Decker sneered, ¡°Andres, Sandra is acting high and mighty, looking down on you. Should we drag her here and put her in her ce? See how smug she is after that!¡±


    ¡°Idiot!¡± Andres snapped, frustrated. ¡°You want to mess with the Harper family? Are you trying to get us killed?¡±


    Decker quickly said, ¡°I was just trying to help you blow off steam. Sandra is too arrogant, giving you attitude. She¡¯s just an illegitimate daughter. Who does she think she is?¡±


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 Chapter 1498

    ?Chapter 1498:


    ¡°And why is that your business?¡± Andres barked. ¡°You guys don¡¯t get it.¡±


    Decker exchanged looks with Jayson Palmer and Brook Guzman, who were sitting nearby, and the trio fell silent.


    Seeing his friends¡¯ embarrassment, Andres softened his tone. ¡°My dad found out about me and Sandra. He told me to take my rtionship with her seriously, maybe even marry her. Our family is after a Harper Group project. If I¡¯m dating Sandra, our chances of securing that project will skyrocket.¡±


    The three finally understood Sandra¡¯s importance to Andres. ¡°Could she be ignoring you because she found out about something?¡± Jayson asked.


    Andres shook his head, tossing his phone aside. ¡°I don¡¯t know. She just said she wants to break up with me. I¡¯ve got to win her back. If I marry her, I might even get a VP spot in my father¡¯spany.¡±


    He didn¡¯t have a position in thepany, not because hecked ambition, but because his father didn¡¯t see him aspetent.


    At home, his father often said he was unfit for business, destined to ruin anypany he touched.


    He had tried running several ventures, all of which had copsed.


    He really wasn¡¯t cut out for it.


    Andres had beenbeled a failure at home. Even his older brother mocked him, suggesting he live off dividends and coast through life.


    It sounded like a jest, but it was pure contempt.


    ¡°Guys, help me figure out how to win her back. I think she knows something. Rich people are really hard to deal with!¡± Andres said.


    Decker scratched his head. ¡°How about a surprise proposal outside herpany?¡±


    Jayson nodded. ¡°Yeah, go big with a massive bouquet of roses and candles in a heart shape¡ªmake it super romantic.¡±


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    Brook shook his head. ¡°That¡¯s clich¨¦. We need to figure out why she wants to break up and fix the root issue.¡±


    The following morning, Brenna descended the stairs to find Sandra already bustling in the kitchen, preparing food. As Brenna settled at the dining table, Sandra approached with a te of sandwiches.


    Dalton, preparing for a day on the film set, had his suitcase ready in the living room. He joined the family for breakfast. Shepard and Giselle soon appeared, their expressions filled with joy, suggesting a mending of past tensions.


    Just then, Ernst and Lilith stepped in from outside. Newly married, they hadn¡¯t been eating at their new home; they always came here for their meals.


    Breakfast with the entire family was a rare asion, and today, joy seemed to ripple through the table.


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 Chapter 1499

    ?Chapter 1499:


    Sandra saw this as a chance to make amends, sincerely wishing to own up to her mistakes in front of everyone. As they all took their seats, she presented her culinary creations with enthusiasm. ¡°Today, I prepared sandwiches filled with sulent seafood and delicate egg blends¡ªtruly delectable, I promise!¡±


    The Harper family had gradually begun to embrace Sandra. Though their responses were still reserved and conversation sparse, a subtle shift toward eptance was evident. Shepard reached for a sandwich. ¡°I¡¯ll try one,¡± he said, passing another to Giselle with a gentle nod. ¡°You should, too.¡±


    Giselle, havinge to terms with Sandra¡¯s existence, recognized that Sandra¡¯s illegitimacy was no fault of her own. Though unable to offer maternal warmth, she resolved to ease her previous hostility.


    ¡°Very well,¡± she replied with measured calm, epting the sandwich. After a tentative bite, she offered apliment. ¡°These are quite delightful, far better than anything one can usually buy outside.¡±


    A quiet joy blossomed in Sandra¡¯s heart as she witnessed the Harper family¡¯s gradual eptance, her persistent efforts finally yielding fruit.


    Yet, her siblings and Lilith remained unmoved, making no move for the sandwiches, which left her slightly disheartened.


    Compelled to address the unspoken tension, Sandra took a seat and spoke with earnest resolve. ¡°It is a rare gift to have you all here this morning. I must share something. A few days ago, I met that¡­ jerk, Andres.¡±


    Her direct words drew surprised nces from everyone except Brenna. Lilith, her tone gentle yet probing, asked, ¡°Do you believe what we told you about him now?¡±


    Sandra¡¯s gaze softened, shadowed by the weight of her error. Admitting her misjudgment before her family was humbling, yet necessary.


    ¡°Yes,¡± she confessed quietly. ¡°I received photographs of him sleeping with another woman.¡±


    The revtion stirred no shock among the family. Ernst spoke first, his voice firm yet tinged with frustration. ¡°Andres has always been a yboy, as we warned you. But you didn¡¯t believe us before. You should always remember that you are a member of this family, and considering Andres¡¯ status, he isn¡¯t worthy of you at all. But you demeaned yourself and¡ª¡±


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    Lilith, sensing the sting in Ernst¡¯s words, nudged him gently, urging him to stop.


    She turned to Sandra withpassion. ¡°It¡¯s not toote to see his true character. We are your family, always seeking your best interests. If marriage is your aspiration, let Giselle introduce you to worthy suitors¡ªa far wiser course.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s gaze drifted to Giselle, whose face betrayed no emotion. It was clear Giselle hadn¡¯t fully epted her, and perhaps never would. With a hesitant breath, Sandra murmured, ¡°I¡¯m¡­ I¡¯m not ready to marry yet.¡±


    Her reluctance had nothing to do with Andres and everything to do with the Harper family¡¯s wealth¡ªa glittering world of privilege she had yet to fully explore. If she married, she feared she would lose ess to all the advantages of being a Harper.


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 Chapter 1500

    ?Chapter 1500:


    A momentter, Giselle¡¯s voice, calm yet purposeful, echoed across the table. ¡°I have a friend who could introduce you to someone special. When you know what you want in a partner, just let me know.¡±


    Sandra, unsure of Giselle¡¯s motives, gave a small, obedient nod.


    Dalton spoke next, his tone warm but cautionary. ¡°In the future, tread carefully with men who approach you. Those who chase too quickly often aren¡¯t worth your heart, like Andres.¡±


    Sandra came to the realization that although the Harper family might not have warmed to her, they had never schemed against or deceived her¡ªthey simply didn¡¯t like her. Reflecting on their perspective, she could see why. As an unexpected addition to the family, not sharing the same mother, theirck of affection made sense. In fact, their restraint in not mocking or belittling her was alreadymendable.


    Besides, her three siblings had even offered her money and gifts¡ªwhat right did she have to hold a grudge against them?


    She resolved to be grateful for her situation and not let Andres¡¯ words sow discord between her and her family.


    A pang of guilt hit her; she shouldn¡¯t have trusted Keira¡¯s ims that the Harper family was always plotting to drive her away.


    They were, in truth, good people. With this in mind, she spoke up. ¡°I¡¯m sorry; I misunderstood you all. I shouldn¡¯t have dismissed your warnings.¡±


    Shepard noticed her siblings¡¯ silence and said, ¡°There¡¯s no need for apologies among family. In the future, keep your eyes open. We have the resources to find you someone far better than Andres.¡±


    Recently, he had sensed a growing distance from Brenna, Ernst, and Dalton¡ªespecially Brenna, who barely spoke to him at dinner, limiting their conversations to business matters.


    After eating, Brenna left promptly, and Shepard followed her. ¡°Brenna,¡± he called by her car, his face shadowed with sorrow. ¡°Why haven¡¯t you been talking to me muchtely?¡±


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    Brenna met his gaze for a moment, her expression cool and unmoved, betraying no emotion.


    Shepard knew this look¡ªshe was utterly disappointed in him. He suspected her coldness stemmed from his affairs with other women when he was out socializing.


    Though Brenna understood his social interactions were often part of his job, she didn¡¯t condone his affairs. She replied with a hint of scorn, ¡°What do you mean? Isn¡¯t this normal for us?¡±


    Shepard¡¯s brow furrowed. ¡°I¡¯ve had too many social obligations over the years, but I¡¯ve been declining themtely. Brenna, forgive me. I know it was wrong, but back¡­¡±


    then, your brothers were young, and the Harper Group depended on me. Please try to understand me.¡±


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 Chapter 1501

    ?Chapter 1501:


    Before stepping into her car, Brenna said tly, ¡°I don¡¯t hold it against you.¡±


    Yet Shepard still felt weighed down, sensing her forgiveness was hollow.


    He sighed and got into his own car.


    Sandra observed the exchange, having clearly caught every word. Beneath the surface, the family was far from unified, and she saw a chance to deepen her bond with Shepard by showing him empathy, easing his bottled-up frustrations.


    She crafted a strategy to pursue this gradually in theing days.


    At noon, the lunch Andres had ordered for Sandra arrived as expected.


    Robyn Wheeler, Sandra¡¯s coworker, took the delivery and handed it to her.


    ¡°Sandra, you¡¯re so lucky¡ªyour boyfriend sent you lunch again.¡±


    Sandra nced at the note on the lunchbox, filled with apologies, professions of love, and a plea: ¡°Please remove my number from your cklist. I have something to say to you.¡±


    Her face turned icy, irritation sparking. ¡°You can have it. I¡¯m eating at the restaurant downstairs.¡±


    Robyn, momentarily confused, quickly pieced together that Sandra and her boyfriend had probably argued. ¡°Alright,¡± she said without hesitation.


    Right at noon, Sandra descended to the restaurant beneath the office.


    While dining, she noticed a stir among the patrons, all gazing outside.


    Curious, she stood and saw a group arranging a romantic setup¡ªa heart-shaped arch of pink balloons, and ¡®I LOVE YOU¡¯ spelled out in roses on the ground.


    She muttered under her breath, ¡°Such a pointless show.¡±


    The young men outside swiftlypleted the disy just as she finished eating.


    The diners murmured, ¡°Wow, who is getting proposed to? This is so romantic.¡±


    Andres waited in the car, a massive bouquet of rare blue roses resting on the seat beside him. These flowers had been flown in from Valport, impossible to find locally.


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    Repeatedly, he tried to message Sandra, but every attempt failed. She hadn¡¯t just blocked him; she had erased him from her contact list entirely.


    Annoyance simmered as he stared through the windshield at the restaurant. Sandra ate her meal inplete peace, never ncing outside or even checking her phone, which only fueled his frustration.


    He couldn¡¯t wrap his head around what had gone wrong this time. It seemed like Sandra found a new reason to be upset every few days, and he was exhausted from constantly trying to make amends.


    With a sigh, he set his phone aside.


    Decker jogged up to the car and said, ¡°Everything¡¯s ready, Andres.¡±


    Andres gave a curt nod. ¡°Alright.¡±


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 Chapter 1502

    ?Chapter 1502:


    Sandra didn¡¯t care about any of the setup outside the restaurant, but as soon as she stepped out, Andres emerged from the car, bouquet in hand, a hopeful smile on his face. ¡°Sandra!¡±


    He blocked her way, offering up the blue roses. ¡°Please don¡¯t be mad at me. I¡¯m sorry. I was wrong.¡±


    He still had no clue what he¡¯d done to get himself blocked or why Sandra was upset, but he was prepared to admit fault if that was what it took.


    Sandra barely nced at the roses, knowing full well how costly they were, but the price tag did nothing to sway her.


    The sight of Andres brought back all her regrets¡ªhow foolish she¡¯d been to fall for his tricks. Now, here he was again, pretending to be a romantic hero. It was both maddening and pathetic.


    She shot Andres a cold, unyielding re, her patience worn thin. No matter how handsome he was, all she saw was an insufferable jerk blocking her way.


    Without another word, she sidestepped him and headed straight for the office building.


    Andres moved to block her path again,pletely baffled by her coldness. In his mind, he had gone all outvish gestures, pricey flowers, everything he thought would win her over. What more could she possibly expect from him? Even tantrums should have their limits, shouldn¡¯t they?


    ¡°Sandra, why are you being like this? Tell me, what did I do wrong?¡± Andres pleaded.


    Sandra stared at his wide-eyed innocence, almost impressed by how convincing his act was. Then, without warning, she pped Andres hard across the face. ¡°Don¡¯t pretend you don¡¯t know what you did. You actually have the nerve to ask?¡±


    Andres reyed the past few days in his mind. He was certain Sandra couldn¡¯t have uncovered his involvement with anyone else. How had things spiraled out of control?


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    His palm pressed to his stinging cheek, and a sh of irritation crossed his face. Never before had a woman dared to p him while he was pursuing her. Sandra was a first.


    If it weren¡¯t for the fact that he needed Sandra for his ns to secure his family¡¯s business, he would have lost his temper right then and there.


    Trying to y the victim, he said, ¡°Sandra, can¡¯t you just tell me what¡¯s wrong? I honestly didn¡¯t do anything. You¡¯re hurting me when you treat me like this. I really love you.¡±


    ¡°Still putting on a show?¡± Sandra pulled out her phone and held it up, disying the photos Loretta had sent her.


    Andres froze. He¡¯d been so sure he¡¯d hidden his affairs, juggling his secrets without anyone catching on.


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 Chapter 1503

    ?Chapter 1503:


    He gawked at the photos, stunned, unable to guess when Loretta had managed to snap them.


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing left to talk about. Someone like you isn¡¯t worthy of me, Andres. Leave me alone!¡± Sandra snapped, then strode away.


    The blue roses scattered across the pavement, and rage burned in Andres¡¯ chest. Loretta, once so gentle and obedient, had gone behind his back and done something like this.


    He made up his mind right then; he was going to make her pay for this.


    Everything had fallen apart. She hadpletely sabotaged his n.


    Sandra hadn¡¯t gone far before she returned to Andres, a cardboard box in her arms.


    Andres, spotting her approach, assumed she was ready to make up and instantly broke into a grin. ¡°No other man would treat you the way I do. I¡¯m the only one who doesn¡¯t care about your identity as an illegitimate daughter. What more could you possibly want?¡±


    Sandra shoved the box at him, her gaze cold as ice. ¡°You really think highly of yourself. Too bad you¡¯re dead wrong.¡±


    Andres nced inside the box and saw she had packed up every single gift he had ever given her.


    With a look of disdain, he let the box drop to the floor. He never wanted anything back once he had handed it over.


    Phone gripped tightly, he turned away and climbed into his car. Tracking down Loretta and getting answers was now his top priority.


    Just then, Decker and the others hurried over. ¡°Andres, what happened?¡±


    He shot them an impatient re. ¡°Get lost!¡±


    Andres sped off, not bothering to look back at Decker and the others.


    Rage consumed him. When Sandra publicly humiliated him with a p, ignoring his pride, he had wanted to retaliate with a strike of his own. But after a brief pause, he had tightened his fists and restrained himself.


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    He still wanted to marry Sandra, so patience was essential. He needed a n to salvage their rtionship. Striking her would have ended any hope of reconciliation.


    Decker, Jayson, and Brook exchanged looks. Brook asked, ¡°What do we do now?¡±


    Jayson shrugged. ¡°How should I know?¡±


    Decker exhaled heavily. ¡°Just clear all the items here.¡± As nearby office workers trickled out of the restaurant, Decker took charge, letting them take the items for free.


    While Andres was driving to confront Loretta, his phone pinged with a bank alert. Sandra had transferred money to him¡ªthe exact amount he had recently spent on her, down to the meals, shopping, and coffee.


    She was clearly cutting all ties with him.


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 Chapter 1504

    ?Chapter 1504:


    The realization fueled his irritation.


    Loretta, idle without recent auditions or shoots, was lounging at home¡ªbinge-watching shows and studying.


    When Andres arrived at her ce, she was wearing a facemask. ¡°Sweetheart, what brings you here?¡± she asked.


    Her modest one-bedroom apartment sat in an ordinary residential neighborhood. As a minor celebrity, she couldn¡¯t afford luxury and lived frugally in this dated space, diligently saving every dor Andres gave her.


    Despite his fury, Andres never hit women. He brushed off Loretta¡¯s attempt at a hug and sank onto the couch. ¡°I know you sent Sandra photos of us,¡± he said.


    Loretta¡¯s smile stiffened at that, but she remained unfazed, knowing Andres¡¯ temperament.


    She was well aware that Andres was pursuing Sandra, including his public proposal outside herpany, which was now viral online.


    Seeing his dark expression, she already knew he had learned about the photos.


    Sitting beside him, she said, ¡°Don¡¯t be upset. I did it because I love you. I was testing her loyalty. If she truly loved you, she would ept everything about you, even other women in your life. Right, Andres?¡±


    Andres frowned. Her twisted logic struck something in him, but he also knew modern rtionships demanded fidelity.


    His anger softened. ¡°If I marry Sandra, would you still stay with me?¡±


    Loretta answered instantly, ¡°Of course. I love you and embrace all of you. I¡¯m not like those women who can¡¯t share.¡±


    Andres knew that the women he had been with, including Loretta, were only drawn to his wealth,cking status or resources of their own.


    And he was willing to give them money.


    Loretta¡¯s words moved him slightly, easing his intent to confront her.


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    She checked the fridge, spotting some ingredients. ¡°Tonight, let¡¯s just be a regr couple. I¡¯ll cook for you at home, okay?¡± she said.


    Andres nodded.


    The next day, just before lunch, Sandra received a text from Loretta asking to meet at the restaurant under her office. Sandra declined outright, wanting no connection to Andres¡¯ circle.


    But after work, as she stepped out of thepany, she spotted a sharply dressed woman leaning against her car.


    ¡°Miss Harper,¡± Loretta said, removing her sunsses. ¡°I¡¯m Loretta Mendez. Sorry to approach you like this.¡±


    ¡°I have nothing to say to you,¡± Sandra replied icily.


    Loretta knew Andres was set on marrying Sandra, a goal he had never considered with his previous flings.


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 Chapter 1505

    ?Chapter 1505:


    But she believed that if Andres were to marry anyone, it should be her. She couldn¡¯t let her dream of marrying into wealth slip away


    Loretta looked at Sandra, who, though less stunning than she was, came from a wealthy, influential family.


    Even though Sandra was an illegitimate child andcked real favor within her family, Loretta knew she was still far wealthier than her.


    The sleek, high-end car parked before them was a luxury Loretta could only dream of owning.


    This wealth was precisely why Andres wanted to marry Sandra. It exined how Sandra could so effortlessly im everything Loretta had struggled tirelessly to attain.


    The unfairness gnawed at Loretta, fueling resentment and a refusal to ept defeat.


    She gripped Sandra¡¯s arm, a cunning spark flickering in her eyes as she schemed. If Sandra vowed to stay away from Andres, Loretta would warn her of the impending danger. If not, she would let Sandra face the consequences alone.


    ¡°Tell me, what are you going to do about your rtionship with Andres?¡± Loretta asked. Although she doubted Sandra was still interested in him, she wanted certainty.


    Sandra, assuming Loretta hade to taunt her, bristled with disdain. ¡°What business is it of yours what happens between me and him?¡±


    Hearing that, Loretta thought Sandra hadn¡¯tpletely let go of Andres.


    ¡°What do you mean? Didn¡¯t you two end things? Are you nning to reconcile with him?¡± she asked.


    Sandra, exasperated and done with Loretta¡¯s persistence, snapped, ¡°I would never reconcile with him!¡±


    Shoving Loretta aside, she got into her car.


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    A chilling smirk crossed Loretta¡¯s face as she turned away, certain that Sandra¡¯s fate was sealed¡ªa deadly crash was imminent.


    Fuming and restless, Sandra sat in her car, only to find it wouldn¡¯t start. The dashboard shed a brake malfunction warning.


    Stunned, she questioned whether the car¡¯s advanced system could truly detect such a fault.


    Repeated attempts to start the vehicle failed, forcing her to call Brenna.


    Engrossed in designing an autonomousbat vehicle, Brenna frowned at the ringing phone. She answered. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Sandra said, ¡°Your car¡¯s disy says the brakes are malfunctioning. Is it real?¡±


    Brenna responded, ¡°Yeah. Brake failure is unlikely since I engineered that car myself¡ªit¡¯s top-tier, with a near-zero chance of such issues. So someone likely damaged the brakes on purpose.¡±


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 Chapter 1506

    ?Chapter 1506:


    Sandra¡¯s mind immediately pinned the me on Loretta. ¡°That bitch! Even after I ended things with Andres, she¡¯s still targeting me! It has to be her!¡±


    Brenna, now fully alert, advised, ¡°Don¡¯t try driving it. The car has multiple cameras; I¡¯ll review the footage to confirm who tampered with it. For now, get out of the car¡ªit could be dangerous. Take a taxi home, and I¡¯ll have someone fix the car.¡±


    Sandra realized she had narrowly escaped disaster, grateful for the car¡¯s smart alert system¡ªany other vehicle might have led to catastrophe.


    ¡°Alright, thank you,¡± she said.


    Exiting the parking lot, Sandra spotted Loretta lurking behind a tree, watching her.


    As Sandra approached, Loretta bolted, but Sandra caught up, seized her hair, and struck her repeatedly, demanding, ¡°Did you mess with my brakes?¡±


    Loretta, feigning ignorance, fought back and retorted, ¡°I don¡¯t know what you mean! Let go, or I¡¯ll call the cops!¡±


    Sandra, undeterred, pped Loretta harder, leaving vivid handprints and scratches across her face. ¡°Don¡¯t act innocent! My car¡¯s cameras caught you tampering with it. You¡¯ll pay for this!¡±


    Unleashing all her pent-up rage, Sandra hit Loretta for nearly thirty minutes until Lorettay crumpled on the ground, her hair disheveled, her face marred with marks. Only then did Sandra stop.


    Loretta¡¯s phone had fallen and shattered nearby. She red at Sandra, seething. ¡°I will call the police! You won¡¯t get away with this!¡±


    Sandra, unfazed, replied, ¡°Go ahead. I¡¯m a Harper, and my family¡¯s connections run deep. Feel free to report me to the police!¡±


    Tauntingly, she even held out her phone. ¡°Here, do it!¡±


    Sandra looked at Loretta¡¯s disheveled form, a surge of triumph coursing through her. For the first time, she truly felt the power of wealth.


    Those without money, when struck or humiliated, could only endure in silence.


    ???¨¦?? ???t?€§ñ? ?n Ga?n?¦Í¦Ål?.???


    She delivered another sharp kick to Loretta, her voice ringing with indignation. ¡°I can shrug off other people¡¯s taunts, but who do you think you are, unting your arrogance in my face?¡±


    At that moment, Ethan and Brenna¡¯s car rolled to a stop, their eyes catching the chaotic scene. They stepped out, astonishment flickering across their faces at the sight of Loretta¡¯s pitiful state.


    Brenna¡¯s brow arched as she asked Sandra, ¡°Was this your doing?¡±


    Sandra¡¯s cheeks flushed, a pang of self-consciousness hitting her. Had her ferocity painted her as too harsh in their eyes? Would they see her as cruel?


    She hurried to exin, her voice betraying her unease. ¡°She sabotaged my car first. If Brenna hadn¡¯t warned me, I could have been in a catastrophic ident.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s expression remained impassive as he nced at Loretta, a stranger to him. To him, if Sandra had taught her a lesson, it simply meant Loretta wasn¡¯t a good person.


    .


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 Chapter 1507

    ?Chapter 1507:


    Brenna¡¯s lips curved into a faint smile, a glint of approval in her eyes. ¡°Well done. Do you want to call the authorities?¡±


    Sandra hesitated, concern creeping into her voice. ¡°Better not. I¡¯ve already hit her. If the police get involved, they might hold me responsible.¡±


    Brenna agreed. With nothing more to handle, she gestured for Sandra to leave with them.


    Loretta struggled to her feet, battered and humiliated. She didn¡¯t know Brenna, but Ethan¡¯s face was unmistakable¡ªalways appearing on finance magazine covers and television interviews, a man she had once fantasized about marrying.


    To be seen by him in such a disgraceful state made her cheeks burn with shame.


    All she wanted was to escape. Casting a venomous re at Sandra, stunned by the caliber of her allies, Loretta limped away, her mind already plotting retribution.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± Brenna said.


    Sandra slid into the vehicle behind, choosing not to join Brenna and Ethan in theirs.


    Ethan, free from social obligations for once, went to the Harper residence with Brenna to join her and her family for dinner.


    Sandra trailed behind them into the living room, quietly marveling at Ethan¡¯smanding presence. To her, he was the archetype of a man¡ªthe ideal partner.


    Yet, even if Ethan and Brenna¡¯s engagement were canceled, he would never choose her. She had no desire topete with Brenna for his affection.


    Inside the living room, Jordy rose to his feet.


    He approached Ethan, extending a hand. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, Brenna.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s jaw tightened in frustration, not only because Jordy was Brenna¡¯s ex, but because he had addressed Brenna too familiarly.


    With a pointed edge, he said, ¡°Mr. Barton, mind how you address Brenna. You shouldn¡¯t use her first name; you two aren¡¯t that close.¡±


    g?ln¦Ò¦Í????s takes you to new worlds


    He disliked the fact that Jordy hade to Brenna¡¯s home. When Ethan ignored his outstretched hand, Jordy¡¯s expression stiffened in embarrassment.


    He knew the address was improper, but since Brenna had never objected, he had continued to use it. Ethan¡¯s correction today felt like meddling.


    ¡°My apologies, old habit,¡± Jordy said coolly, retracting his hand with a shrug. He harbored just as much dislike for Ethan as Ethan did for him.


    Ethan¡¯s scoff was icy, his tone cutting. ¡°Then break that habit.¡±


    Jordy¡¯s lips curled with a sardonic edge. He ignored Ethan and turned to Brenna.


    Brenna, unfazed by the tension, met his gaze with cool indifference. ¡°What brings you here?¡±


    She didn¡¯t dislike Jordy, but she couldn¡¯t bring herself to like him either¡ªnot after he had abandoned her for Isabe. That betrayal ensured he¡¯d never be her friend again.


    .


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 Chapter 1508

    ?Chapter 1508:


    ¡°I heard from my colleagues that your firewall tech is unmatched in the industry,¡± Jordy said. ¡°I¡¯m wondering if you¡¯re nning tounch a dedicated security firm to expand this venture. I¡¯m bullish on its potential. You bring the expertise, I¡¯ll bring the capital, and together we can build something extraordinary. What do you say?¡±


    Brenna settled beside Ethan, who shot a displeased nce at Jordy. ¡°Brenna¡¯s vision is far grander,¡± Ethan said. ¡°Haven¡¯t you noticed that basic firewalls and antivirus programs are practically free now?¡±


    Ethan was well aware that cybersecurity firms rarely profited from individual users. Their real revenue came from tailored enterprise solutions, raking in substantial profits.


    It surprised Jordy that Ethan, a seasoned entrepreneur, didn¡¯t seem to grasp how cybersecurity firms generated revenue.


    With a half-smile, he said, ¡°Mr. Mitchell, you must know the firewall your ownpany employs, along with its subscription costs and the hefty fees for advanced services like IPS, AV, URL filtering, and sandboxing. Those aren¡¯t cheap, and Brenna has the talent to develop them effortlessly.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s expression turned cold. ¡°Stop calling her Brenna. You shouldn¡¯t address her by her first name. You two aren¡¯t close, and she has no interest in partnering with you.¡±


    Brenna, her patience thinning, echoed his sentiment. ¡°Exactly. Call me Brenna one more time, and I won¡¯t consider working with you.¡±


    Jordy could brush off Ethan¡¯s words, but Brenna¡¯s words carried weight. ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll call you Miss Harper.¡±


    Despite her frosty demeanor, Jordy sensed Brenna¡¯s interest in advancing her firewall technology.


    He said, ¡°So, Miss Harper, what¡¯s your take on my proposal? Word is, Vand¡¯s cybersecurity division relies on your firewall, and you engineered the hardware yourself. This venture could be massive.¡±


    G  a lno  ve ls . is where the magic begins


    Sandra, who¡¯d been quietly absorbing the exchange, saw an opportunity to dip her toes into investing. Shecked business acumen but had savings to spare. A project like this promised far better returns than a dormant bank ount.


    She said, ¡°Brenna, you should really think about it. That facial recognition system you set up on myputer? My colleagues raved about it. They¡¯re convinced your firewall could redefine cybersecurity.¡±


    Jordy¡¯s eyes gleamed with approval at Sandra¡¯s instinct for opportunity.


    A new idea sparked in his mind¡ªpursuing Sandra could open doors to the Harper family¡¯s influence.


    The thought took hold.


    ¡°Miss Harper, what do you think? You bring the tech, and I¡¯ll bring the funding. We could make this work,¡± he said to Brenna.


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 Chapter 1509

    ?Chapter 1509:


    Ethan interjected, his tone firm, ¡°It¡¯s a solid project, but Brenna would rather coborate with me than you.¡±


    Brenna knew Jordy¡¯spany was thriving. His investments often yielded impressive returns, and his firm had grown significantly stronger.


    Yet her personal dislike for Jordy made any partnership unappealing.


    Jordy, aware of her aversion and past failed attempts at coboration, refused to let Ethan derail him this time.


    ¡°Miss Harper, Mr. Mitchell may have influence, but let¡¯s keep this professional. Personal ties canplicate business. You and Ethan are close now, but what happens if things sour between you two? A project like this demands clear boundaries. Partner with me, and we¡¯ll keep it strictly business, with every detail ironed out.¡±


    Brenna had to admit Jordy had a point.


    Even her parents, steadfast as they were, had their disputes. Could she and Ethan truly avoid problems in their rtionship? She doubted it.


    ¡°Fine,¡± Brenna said. ¡°Come to my office tomorrow. We¡¯ll discuss the specifics.¡±


    Jordy¡¯s face lit up, and he shot a triumphant nce at Ethan.


    Sandra seized the moment. ¡°Brenna, I¡¯ve got some savings. Can I invest in this project?¡±


    Brenna kept herposure as she answered, ¡°Of course, but don¡¯t forget that investments always carry risks. Think carefully before youmit.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s hesitation caught Jordy¡¯s eye, and he urged her on. ¡°This deal can¡¯t fail. You¡¯ll definitely profit!¡±


    With a narrowing gaze, Brenna warned him, ¡°There¡¯s no such thing as a risk-free investment. Choose your words wisely. If she ends up losing, will you take responsibility for her losses?¡±


    Jordy let out augh. ¡°Brenna, don¡¯t be so harsh. This is our venture. With your expertise, no one can rival what we¡¯ve built. It¡¯s guaranteed to seed. How could it not make money?¡±


    Explore g¦Á?¦Ç¦Òv???s for fresh content


    Sandra grew more confident after hearing his words.


    However, Ethan sulked. Brenna had chosen to partner with Jordy instead of him, and it stung to know she still didn¡¯t trust him fully.


    ¡°Mr. Barton, it¡¯ste now. You should leave. You and Brenna can discuss the project at the office tomorrow,¡± he said.


    Jordy blinked in surprise. ¡°That¡¯s rather cold, isn¡¯t it? I can already smell the food from here. You¡¯re really sending me away now? I¡¯ve known Brenna for years, and we are about to coborate on a project. Having one meal together isn¡¯t too much to ask, is it?¡±


    ¡°It is inappropriate. You and Brenna are strictly business partners. Coming into her home uninvited and now insisting on having a meal with her is crossing the line,¡± Ethan said as he rose to his feet, signaling firmly that Jordy should leave.


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 Chapter 1510

    ?Chapter 1510:


    Remaining seated, Brenna made no move to ask Jordy to stay.


    Sandra rose and spoke. ¡°Let me walk Mr. Barton out.¡±


    Since no one asked him to stay, Jordy felt humiliated, and with no other option, he turned toward the door.


    As they reached the entryway, Sandra reassured him, ¡°Please don¡¯t take offense. Mr. Mitchell is just a little jealous. I actually think your project sounds solid, but I only have twenty million I can put in. Would that be eptable?¡±


    From their earlier exchange, she already sensed the distance between Jordy and Brenna, and she believed talking with him wouldn¡¯t upset Brenna.


    Jordy¡¯s mood lifted at once at Sandra¡¯s words. Even though Sandra was an illegitimate daughter, she was still part of the Harper family. A union with her, whether through investment or marriage, would be quite advantageous.


    The thought tempted him. He said, ¡°Miss Harper, if you¡¯re truly that interested, why don¡¯t we sit down somewhere and go over the details?¡±


    Sandra thought about it briefly before replying, ¡°That sounds good. I don¡¯t really understand investments, so would you be willing to guide me?¡±


    Sandra truly wished to understand how investing worked.


    ¡°Of course. I know a fine restaurant nearby. Let me take you there,¡± Jordy said.


    Before leaving, Sandra slipped back inside for her purse and told Brenna, ¡°I¡¯ll be out for dinner.¡± Without another word, she left with Jordy.


    Once Jordy was gone, Ethan¡¯s spirits lifted. It pleased him even more that Brenna hadn¡¯t tried to stop Jordy from leaving.


    Brenna led Ethan upstairs to her room. Her parents and older brother were still out, and dinner wouldn¡¯t begin until Giselle returned home.


    ¡°Sit down for a bit. I need to change,¡± Brenna said to Ethan.


    The moment she stepped into the dressing room, Ethan¡¯s phone began to ring. Gracie¡¯s name lit up the screen.


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    Ethan hesitated, waiting to see if she would end it, but the call kept ringing. Eventually, he answered. ¡°Gracie, what¡¯s going on?¡±


    ¡°Ethan, you skipped my wedding with Waldo. At leaste to my birthday party next week.¡±


    Gracie¡¯s mood was sour. She had just discovered that Waldo was involved with a college girl. He disappeared for nearly a week each month, most likely spending his nights at her ce.


    The marriage had barelysted a few months before Waldo revealed his true nature.


    In her gloom, Gracie found herself thinking of Ethan, convinced no man could everpare to him.


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 Chapter 1511

    ?Chapter 1511:


    She missed him.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be tied up next week, Gracie. I probably can¡¯t make it. Spend the day with your close friends, and I¡¯ll make sure a gift reaches you.¡±


    Although there were conflicts between them, Ethan¡¯s tone remained polite.


    When Brenna reappeared in rxed, casual clothes, Ethan added, ¡°I need to go now.¡± Then, he hung up.


    Julia slipped in quietly with two sses of lemon water, set them down, and quickly left, closing the door behind her.


    ¡°Brenna, what are your thoughts about our¡­¡±


    ¡°Brenna, what are your thoughts about our wedding?¡± Lately, Ethan had been preparing their wedding, determined to turn it into a grand event that would leave asting impression


    ¡°I haven¡¯t given it much thought. I already spoke with my parents, and we don¡¯t have any specific requests. You can decide how it¡¯s done. Personally, I¡¯d rather keep things simple,¡± Brenna said softly. ¡°I don¡¯t care for too much ceremony.¡±


    Ethan gave a nod. ¡°I feel the same way. Why don¡¯t we just hold a destination wedding?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s smile brightened. ¡°Yes, that¡¯s perfect. Just like Ellie¡¯s. That¡¯s exactly what I prefer.¡±


    ¡°Good, then it¡¯s settled. I¡¯ll bring it up with my parents when I return. We won¡¯t need avish wedding. Make sure you discuss it with your parents as well,¡± Ethan said.


    When Brenna and Ethan finally headed downstairs, the other Harper family members hade home, and dinner was already waiting on the table.


    At the same time, Jordy escorted Sandra to an elegant, high-end restaurant. Sandra had grown ustomed to such ces thanks to her outings with Andres, so the luxury, the atmosphere, and the steep prices no longer fazed her. Everything¡ªfrom the cuisine to the attentive service¡ªput her at ease.


    ?@?¨¦$? ???t?¦Å§ñ? ¨ª¦Ð ?al¦Ðo¦Í¦Ål?.c??


    Once the waiter arrived with the menu, Jordy motioned toward Sandra, signaling that she should order first.


    Sandra now knew how to choose dishes worth savoring while steering clear of those designed only to impress with appearance.


    After selecting three, she passed the menu to Jordy, leaving him room to make his own choices. It was her way of showing respect.


    Jordy ced his own order of three dishes, and the waiter quietly stepped away.


    ¡°Mr. Barton, you¡¯ve made quite a name for yourself in investments. I¡¯d really like to learn from your experience,¡± Sandra said politely.


    After everything she had gone through with Andres, she no longer felt any desire to chase after men. As a member of the powerful Harper family and a well-known figure in Shirie¡¯s social circles, she understood that she had no need to please anyone. It was men who should be proving themselves to her. For that reason, she chose to keep her interactions with Jordy light and casual.


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 Chapter 1512

    ?Chapter 1512:


    Another factor was the fact that Jordy had once been Brenna¡¯s ex, which made romance between them even less appealing to her.


    Jordy, however, was well-versed in the art of courtship. He knew better than to push too hard, especially with women of notable standing like Sandra.


    Though Sandra wasn¡¯t considered one of the city¡¯s most powerful heiresses, her family name still carried enough weight tomand respect.


    With patience, he began exining the methods and strategies behind sessful investments to her.


    Sandra leaned in, absorbing every word. After a while, a waiter came and set down their dishes. At that very moment, a tall figure loomed by the table, his voice dripping with sarcasm.


    ¡°Sandra, is he the reason you ended things with me?¡± Andres demanded, his face clouded with sadness.


    Only then did Sandra realize Andres had approached her table unnoticed. His wounded expression grated on her nerves.


    Annoyed, she snapped back, ¡°What nonsense are you spouting? Mr. Barton and I are just friends.¡±


    Jordy, maintaining hisposure, rose from his seat. With a steady push, he moved Andres aside and ced himself between them.


    ¡°Sir, I must ask you to step away,¡± he said firmly. ¡°Don¡¯t disturb our meal.¡±


    Andres shot Jordy a furious re. ¡°Who do you think you are? Stay out of this! She¡¯s my girlfriend, so back off!¡±


    Andres¡¯ foul mood showed. He had been out with a new college girl he had recently met and, by chance, had run into Sandra. That encounter drove him to approach her.


    Sandra didn¡¯t hold back. Her anger red as she snapped, ¡°Wasn¡¯t that p before enough to wake you up? I already showed you proof. What more do you need? Are you seriously going to say those photos are fake?¡±


    New updates in g??l¦Ç¦Òv???s


    Andres exined desperately, ¡°They are fake! Loretta and I broke up a long time ago. She¡¯s only after my money. You know I¡¯ve always had women chasing me¡ªI can¡¯t do anything about it if she refuses to let go.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s fury intensified. ¡°Unbelievable! I just spoke with Loretta, and she confirmed the photos are real. She even said you already promised to marry her. Get out of my sight and stop bothering me!¡±


    Jordy stepped in, his tone controlled. ¡°That¡¯s enough. Please¡ª¡±


    But Andres, refusing to back down, suddenly dropped to his knees before Sandra.


    ¡°Sandra, I was wrong. Please forgive me. I¡¯ll do anything¡ªjust give me another chance.¡±


    Andres actually fell to his knees.


    Sandra stared down at him, a wave of disdain rolling through her.


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 Chapter 1513

    ?Chapter 1513:


    A grown man, reduced to groveling on the floor just to win a woman back?


    Throwing away his dignity like it meant nothing, as if humiliation could move her heart.


    The sight was pathetic, and it turned Sandra¡¯s stomach.


    What kind of man would kneel like this unless he was scheming for something? To her, this was a ploy, desperation dressed up as love.


    Sandra¡¯s eyes hardened, and her irritation toward Andres only increased.


    ¡°You¡¯re being really pathetic, you know that?¡± Sandra snapped, her voice sharp and irritated. ¡°Get out. Do you really think I would ever stoop so low as to be with someone like you?¡±


    After a pause, she continued, ¡°You make me sick. Leave now, or I¡¯ll call the police.¡±


    Jordy spotted his chance to y the hero, the perfect moment to earn Sandra¡¯s approval. Without a second thought, he seized Andres by the cor, wanting to haul him toward the door.


    But Andres fought back, shoving Jordy¡¯s hand off and barking, ¡°Stay out of this! You think you¡¯ve got the right to pursue Sandra? Then so do I. Don¡¯t act like you¡¯re better than me. Move aside!¡±


    Jordy refused to yield, nting himself in front of Sandra to protect her, his frame straight, eyes zing.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you hear her? Miss Harper couldn¡¯t be clearer¡ªshe wouldn¡¯t waste her time on someone like you. Why would she ever pick you? Why would she settle for a man who shares himself with other women? Look at her. She¡¯s a billionaire¡¯s daughter. Men line up in droves just for a chance to win her over. Why would she choose a jerk like you? Get out.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s anger boiled over. She knew Andres wasn¡¯t here out of love¡ªhe was deliberately creating a scene, trying to corner her under the weight of the crowd¡¯s eyes.


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    As the restaurant¡¯s patrons gawked openly, humiliation burned through her.


    ¡°I¡¯m not leaving!¡± Andres shouted, stubborn defiance in his voice.


    He had no intention of letting go of the one card that could boost his ce in the Stewart family.


    Having Sandra at his side would shoot his standing in the Stewart family through the roof, giving him far more influence. And if winning her back meant making a fool of himself, he was willing to pay that price.


    He sank to his knees once more. ¡°Sandra, please don¡¯t do this. I know you¡¯ve got a kind heart. I love you so much¡ªyou wouldn¡¯t let me suffer. I love you more than life itself. I¡¯d give you everything, anything. Please don¡¯t abandon me. I¡¯m the one for you, and deep down, you know it.¡±


    ¡°You are shameless!¡± Sandra eximed, disgust twisting with frustration. Faced with someone this bold, who clung on no matter what she said, she found herself at aplete loss for how to deal with him. ¡°You¡¯ve humiliated me enough. I told you, we¡¯re finished! I don¡¯t want you anywhere near me. Stop ruining my evening and leave!¡±


    .


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 Chapter 1514

    ?Chapter 1514:


    ¡°No! If you don¡¯t forgive me, I won¡¯t leave. You¡¯re the only woman I¡¯ll ever love. Without you, I¡¯m nothing. If you reject me, I¡¯d rather die right here!¡± Andres clutched at his chest, his voice dramatic.


    Sandra saw straight through his performance. She turned sharply. ¡°Fine. If you won¡¯t leave, then I will.¡±


    But before she could storm off, a striking young woman appeared from the crowd. She looked no older than her early twenties, tall and graceful. She grabbed Andres¡¯ arm, her voice quivering with hurt. ¡°Mr. Stewart, what about me? Didn¡¯t you say I was the one you loved the most?¡±


    Her wide eyes shimmered with tears, her heartbreak in for all to see.


    The onlookers gasped, their whispers rising in waves.


    Andres froze, his mask slipping. Sandra¡¯s fury only zed brighter. ¡°Still pretending? You really think you can string along woman after woman, feeding each the same lies, and never pay the price? You¡¯re a jerk, Andres. Get out now, or I¡¯ll have my father bankrupt your family business. Don¡¯t test me.¡± She thought that would make Andres give up.


    But Andres?


    He only went further.


    Instead of backing down, he doubled down¡ªbowing low and mming his forehead against the floor with heavy thuds.


    Sandra¡¯s whole body shook with rage; she didn¡¯t know what to say for a moment.


    After a while, she stabbed a finger toward the young woman. ¡°Then exin her,¡± she said. ¡°You told her she was the one you loved the most.¡±


    Andres sneered inside, dismissing the young woman as nothing but a clingy nuisance. Out loud, he eximed, ¡°She¡¯s the one clinging to me! Everything I said to her was a lie. None of it meant anything!¡±


    With a derisive sniff, Sandra shot back, ¡°I think you¡¯re the one ying games. I¡¯m asking you onest time¡ªleave.¡±


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    ¡°I¡¯m not leaving, not until you take me back,¡± Andres said, stubborn as ever, convinced that persistence would make Sandra change her mind.


    Sandra¡¯s eyes turned cold. ¡°Fine. You won¡¯t leave? Then I will.¡±


    If she couldn¡¯t deal with him, she could at least avoid him. Grabbing her purse, she stormed toward the exit and dragged Jordy with her.


    Jordy was seething on her behalf.


    However, before they made it far, Andres suddenly lunged and grabbed Sandra. ¡°Don¡¯t leave me, Sandra¡­ Please! I can¡¯t live without you¡­¡±


    ¡°Ugh, you¡¯re pathetic!¡± Sandra snapped, and her hand flew. She swung her purse at Andres repeatedly, each blow harder than thest.


    The young woman nearby, watching Andres grovel to another woman after weeks of sweet talk and generous gifts to her, also snapped.


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 Chapter 1515

    ?Chapter 1515:


    Feeling used, she began hitting Andres too, kicking and scratching at him.


    Andres gritted his teeth, thinking endurance would win Sandra back.


    But Sandra¡¯s blows kepting, and he soon feared real injury, so he raised his arms to shield himself.


    ¡°Sandra, stop¡­¡± he muttered.


    Jordy, watching the scene, thought Sandra wasn¡¯t putting enough hurt on Andres.


    ¡°I will hit him for you,¡± he said, pulling Sandra aside. ¡°This scumbag needs a proper lesson.¡±


    Sandra, feeling a bit tired, stepped back.


    Jordy wasn¡¯t a trained fighter, but his punches had weight. One solid blow knocked out one of Andres¡¯ teeth; blood and swelling quickly covered his mouth.


    Andres stumbled to the floor, clutching his face. Jordy followed up with a brutal kick to his gut; Andres curled up and howled in pain.


    The young woman, disgusted, spat at Andres and kicked him a couple more times before storming off.


    Jordy still wasn¡¯t done. He continued to beat Andres and then threw him out of the restaurant.


    Andres hit the ground hard, unable to rise, but still managed a sputtering threat. ¡°Do you know who I am? You¡¯ll pay for this. I¡¯ll make you regret it!¡±


    Jordy smirked coldly. ¡°I¡¯m Jordy¡ªthe CEO of Barton Investments. Who do you think you are? The Stewart family doesn¡¯t even register on my radar. You wannae at me? Go ahead, I¡¯m game. But if you don¡¯t, I¡¯ll have the Stewart Group bankrupt in a week. Try me.¡±


    Andres stiffened, the name finally clicking. A wave of regret washed over him¡ªhe had picked the wrong fight. Still, his pride wouldn¡¯t let him bow out.


    Jordy was an investor with a string of blockbuster projects and a worth rumored to be in the billions. He had recently be one of the city¡¯s fresh-faced power yers.


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    Even the Stewart Group had courted his investment, but Jordy had dismissed them without a second thought.


    A cold shiver ran down Andres¡¯ spine at the thought that Jordy might actually have the power to bankrupt hispany.


    Jordy called his driver over. ¡°Get this guy out of here.¡± Returning to Sandra¡¯s side, he softened his tone. ¡°All taken care of. Now, let¡¯s enjoy our meal.¡±


    Sandra, still rattled, let her frustration spill. ¡°Ugh, he was absolutely revolting.¡±


    ¡°Total creep,¡± Jordy agreed without hesitation. ¡°Guys like that? Best to keep them a mile away. If you¡¯re worried about pests like him, you should think about hiring a bodyguard. The Harper family¡¯s security detail is second to none; any one of them could protect you well.¡±


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 Chapter 1516

    ?Chapter 1516:


    Sandra blinked, intrigued. ¡°A bodyguard? I don¡¯t know¡­ Isn¡¯t that a little over the top? Brenna always has one trailing her, but I figured that¡¯s just because she is gorgeous and creeps hover around her. What else would she even need protecting from?¡±


    Jordy chuckled, shaking his head. ¡°You don¡¯t get it. She¡¯s got a lot more going for her than just good looks.¡±


    Andres was dropped at a lonely intersection, a good ten miles from the restaurant.


    For a long moment, he slumped against the ground, then finally forced himself onto his feet.


    His phone started buzzing. He retrieved it and snapped, ¡°What is it now?¡±


    Through the line came Loretta¡¯s broken sobs. ¡°I was just walking, minding my own business, when Miss Harper came out of nowhere and hit me! She left me covered in bruises, and I can hardly move. The doctor says I¡¯ve got to rest. Andres, you have to do something! How can she just attack me like that? That¡¯s so out of line!¡±


    Andres¡¯ patience faded, and his grudge against Sandra burned hotter.


    Despite his bad mood, he slipped into his practiced charm. ¡°Calm down, baby. I¡¯ll be there soon. You haven¡¯t had dinner yet, right? I¡¯ll bring you something to eat.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m starving. You really are the sweetest, Andres.¡±


    Afterforting Loretta with a few words, Andres ended the call.


    Too ragged to show his face in public, he passed the task to Decker, asking him to deliver food to Loretta¡¯s ce.


    At around ten, Jordy drove Sandra back to the Harper family estate.


    During the ride, Sandra found herself reassessing Brenna. Their lives had crossed in a few ways, but Brenna possessed a sharper mind and far more capability than she had guessed.


    Brenna had ties to the military, though Jordy couldn¡¯t say what position she held or how deep her connections ran. All he revealed was that uniformed officers had attended her birthday celebration. Sandra suspected even he had been kept in the dark.


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    Sandra¡¯s outburst had shaken both Loretta and Andres. For the next few days, they kept to themselves and didn¡¯t cause any more problems for her.


    Sandra began to think she had finally shaken Andres off for good.


    By Friday evening, she finished uploading hertest design drafts to the department head and started for home.


    It was over an hour past regr work hours, and her colleagues had already left. The parking garage was nearly empty, with only a handful of cars left.


    Like always, she made her way toward her vehicle, but a prickle of unease sent her walking faster.


    When her hand touched the door handle, every light above her snapped off.


    Cold fear shot through her chest; she knew she was in danger.


    .


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 Chapter 1517

    ?Chapter 1517:


    She scrambled into her car, her heart pounding as she struggled to steady her breath in the darkness.


    Shutting the door gave her a fragile sense of safety.


    At least her car was no ordinary ride. With bulletproof ss and a reinforced frame, it was a fortress on wheels.


    Just then, a sudden burst of light shed across her windshield, forcing her to throw up a hand against the harsh re. The brightness was so strong that she couldn¡¯t tell how many people now stood in front of her car.


    Knowing she had already been seen, she twisted the key in the ignition and flipped on her headlights. The beam revealed eight silhouettes lined up in front of her, each one clutching either a bat or a knife, every posture radiating hostility.


    Good thing she had moved fast and gotten inside the car. If she had hesitated for even a moment, they would have beaten her up already.


    She quickly locked the doors.


    The mob was irritated by her headlights, their anger boiling over into snarls and twisted grins as they approached. Sandra¡¯s pulse spiked. Hitting the gas would mean plowing straight through them.


    But if she didn¡¯t, they would hurt her.


    ¡°Get out of the car!¡± shouted one man, his bat cracking down on the hood with a sharp ng.


    Each strike bounced off harmlessly, leaving nothing but scratched paint. The reinforced shell didn¡¯t bend an inch.


    Sandra¡¯s first instinct was to call Brenna.


    She fumbled with her phone, hands shaking so badly that she nearly dropped it.


    Eventually, she pressed the right buttons and heard the line connect.


    Relief washed over her when Brenna¡¯s steady tone filled her ear, easing her panic.


    Latest chapters ?¦Áln¦Ò¦Íe??s


    ¡°Brenna, I¡¯m in serious trouble,¡± she said. ¡°There are guys all around my car with weapons. What should I do?¡±


    Brenna happened to be in Ethan¡¯s car at that moment, and the two of them were headed to visit Belen.


    ¡°Are you inside the car?¡± Brenna asked coolly, not the least bit rattled.


    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m inside. But I¡¯m terrified they¡¯ll smash the ss and drag me out.¡±


    ¡°Calm down,¡± Brenna said. ¡°That vehicle¡¯s practically a fortress. They won¡¯t break through the ss easily. Send me your location.¡±


    The leader of the group, a young man in his twenties with stark white hair, gripped a cigarette between his lips and wielded a steel bat. He swaggered toward Sandra¡¯s car, striking the hood with forceful blows that sent shivers through her. Sandra¡¯s gaze fixed on him, filled with dread and helplessness.


    His aplices fanned out, encircling the vehicle and hammering the windows with fierce intensity.


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 Chapter 1518

    ?Chapter 1518:


    Fortunately, the car was a stronghold; despite their relentless blows, the ss only bore faint marks.


    Unable to breach it, the gang pressed their faces against the tinted windows, trying to glimpse inside, but the one-way ss let Sandra observe them clearly while they saw nothing. Their agitation grew, and they leaped around the car like frenzied beasts, causing it to sway.


    The relentless rocking shredded Sandra¡¯s nerves; she yearned to drive straight through them and flee, but the threat of prison held her back.


    Shaking, she turned the key, started the engine, and edged the car forward a little, hoping they would back off.


    The white-haired leader vaulted onto the hood, squatting before the windshield and smashing his bat against it, leaving minor marks.


    With a malicious grin, he jeered, ¡°Come on, darling, step out! Come have some fun with us.¡±


    His proximity overwhelmed Sandra with terror, tears cascading down her cheeks. She had witnessed debt collectors harass her mother, but none had ever been this brazen.


    Sobbing hysterically, she feltpletely paralyzed.


    The leader shouted to his crew, ¡°Hey, smash the car!¡±


    Desperate to escape, Sandra floored the elerator, jolting the car forward. The leader, caught off bnce, rolled off the hood.


    Infuriated, he roared, ¡°Break it! Trash it! Derick, you¡¯re the lock expert, right? Crack this open! We¡¯re not leaving without her!¡±


    ¡°On it, Mitch!¡± Derick responded.


    Sandra knew she had to act fast or she¡¯d be trapped.


    Her driving was shaky, and as she swerved, she grazed another car, which halted her escape. The gang erupted in mockingughter, their jeers reverberating through the parking structure.


    1@?€?? ¡é??t?¨º§ñ$ ¨ª§Ú gal??ovels.??om


    Some rushed to block her path, pounding the car like lunatics. A yellow-haired thug tampered with the driver¡¯s side door, attempting to jimmy the lock.


    Sandra quickly checked, making sure her doors were secure.


    ¡°Mitch, it¡¯s not budging!¡± the lockpicker shouted after multiple failed tries.


    He was supposedly a master at cracking any vehicle, yet this one resisted.


    ¡°Damn, no surprise it costs a fortune. This thing¡¯s a fortress!¡± Mitch Kirk muttered, grudgingly awed. ¡°When can I snag one?¡±


    His gang went wild, hammering the car with even more ferocity. Sandra¡¯s terror reached its peak.


    She couldn¡¯t worry about hitting them anymore. Jamming the car into reverse, she floored the elerator, then switched gears and screeched forward, toppling the white-haired leader off the roof after he had gotten up.


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 Chapter 1519

    ?Chapter 1519:


    A blue-haired thug blocked her path, but Sandra didn¡¯t hesitate to drive forward; he leapt aside just in time.


    Speeding out of the garage, she nced back, seeing the gang in pursuit, one of them brandishing a pistol and shooting at her car. But as she exited, three vehicles loomed at the exit,pletely barring her way.


    She had no choice but to m the brakes.


    Instantly, the thugs swarmed, renewing their attack on her car.


    ¡°Get out now!¡±


    ¡°Or we will kill you!¡±


    Sandra checked her phone. Only ten minutes had passed since she had dialed Brenna.


    The guy with the gun fired several shots at the door lock, but the car showed barely a mark, the lock unshaken.


    ¡°You bitch¡ªwait till I get this door open! Let¡¯s see how I deal with you!¡± Mitch bellowed. ¡°Light the car up! Smoke her out!¡±


    Just then, a sharp screech of tires cut through the chaos as another luxury car pulled up close by.


    Mitch whipped around, smirking viciously. ¡°Oh, another one? Bring it! Who else wants to y?¡±


    Brenna and Ethan slipped out of the car, keeping low as they took stock of the chaos unfolding in front of them.


    Ethan¡¯s gaze, cold and unyielding, stayed fixed on the group of thugs. A second car rolled up, and from it, Gary Holmes and Felix Ford, two bodyguards, stepped out, each one sliding into ce to form a protective wall in front of Brenna and Ethan.


    These weren¡¯t Brenna¡¯s usual bodyguards¡ªthose two had been reassigned to head security at Ernst¡¯s estate, leaving Gary and Felix with her, both trusted subordinates of the Harpers, sharp on their feet and easier on the eyes.


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    Spotting the new backup, Mitch froze. His crew bunched together, weapons raised, every muscle tense and eyes flicking from one target to another.


    Mitch quickly sized up the situation. None of the four people who had just arrived seemed to be armed. If they had guns, he figured, they would have pulled them out by now.


    He barked out a threat, keeping his gun level. ¡°Back off and stay out of this, or I¡¯ll shoot you.¡±


    One of his men, Brad Reid, scoffed, spitting at the pavement. ¡°They¡¯re not armed!¡±


    No weapons meant these neers were nothing to worry about.


    With that, one of the thugs swaggered forward, his confidence rising with every step. ¡°Rx, we¡¯ve got this. We¡¯ve got more people on our side and guns.¡±


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 Chapter 1520

    Chapter 1520:


    His eyes found Brenna, and he leered with a slow grin. ¡°Damn, she¡¯s a looker. We¡¯re gonna have some real fun tonight.¡±


    Mitch shot him a re. ¡°All you think about is women!¡±


    Chastened, the thug took a step back, but the arrogance never left his voice. ¡°Come on, Mitch, what¡¯s the problem with that?¡±


    But Mitch wasn¡¯t reckless. He had already recognized Ethan, a name even the toughest in Shirie¡¯s underworld whispered about.


    Even their boss wouldn¡¯t dare cross him.


    Mitch blurted out, ¡°Don¡¯t be a fool. Get back here.¡±


    The thug, still itching for a fight, aimed his gun right at Gary and Felix. ¡°Let me deal with the bodyguards first. Then we¡¯ll send the man to our boss. The woman? She¡¯s ours to y with.¡±


    Just as he finished talking, the so-called unarmed group suddenly whipped out guns, each one aimed right at him. At that moment, Neville stepped out of the car, cool as ever and also holding a gun.


    The thug¡¯s bravado shattered. He squeezed off a wild shot at Gary.


    Brenna¡¯s team didn¡¯t hesitate. Bullets flew, and the thug dropped to the ground, riddled with holes.


    For a split second, Mitch and his men froze in terror. Instinct then kicked in, and they scrambled behind Sandra¡¯s car, desperate for cover.


    But they were already toote. Both Brenna and Ethan fired, hitting Mitch and Brad in the wrists. Their guns ttered to the pavement, out of reach.


    Neither dared to make a move for their weapons. They knew they wouldn¡¯t survive if they tried.


    Gary, Felix, and Neville worked like a well-oiled machine. A storm of gunfire dropped three more thugs. Now, only four of the original crew remained, huddled and cornered.


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    Inside her car, Sandra watched the chaos unfold, disbelief mixing with relief. She¡¯d never expected rescue, least of all from Brenna¡ªespecially not in a situation like this.


    She had thought, maybe, the cops woulde.


    Instead, Brenna had shown up, and Ethan too, both of them armed.


    A rush of gratitude washed over her. Her thoughts spun out with questions¡ªcould Ethan havee because he cared about her, even a little? She was lost in thought as the firefight outside raged for a solid three minutes.


    With Mitch¡¯s crew hiding behind Sandra¡¯s bulletproof car now, Ethan and Brenna couldn¡¯t get a clean shot.


    Ethan¡¯s voice then rang out, cold and unshaken. ¡°If you want to survive,e out now. I will let you walk away alive.¡±


    Mitch could tell he was outssed. These people didn¡¯t miss, and they didn¡¯t hesitate. Any wrong move would be hisst.


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    .<hr>


    Message from Noah: I hope you enjoyed the chapters. I¡¯ve also renewed the invitation to the WhatsAppmunity, so you, dear readers, can join whenever you like. God loves you, and I wish you all the best. ( ?? ? ?? )?


    .

 Chapter 1521

    ?Chapter 1521:


    ¡°You think I¡¯m stupid? The second we show ourselves, you¡¯ll shoot us!¡± Mitch said, his voice shaking.


    Ethan didn¡¯t flinch. ¡°I always keep my promises. But I have one condition.¡±


    Mitch was desperate now. ¡°Just say it. We¡¯ll do whatever you want, as long as you let us walk out alive.¡±


    He could see how hopeless this was. If Ethan¡¯s crew wanted them dead, there would be no escape for them.


    But maybe, if there was a deal to be made, there was still a chance of survival


    Brad, grimacing as he clutched the bullet wound in his arm, muttered, ¡°Mitch, why are we running scared? We¡¯ve got firepower too.¡±


    Mitch shot him a withering look. ¡°You¡¯re missing the bigger picture, pal. That¡¯s the richest man in the world out there. You really want to lock horns with him?¡±


    Brad wasn¡¯t convinced. ¡°But Alick¡¯s no lightweight either. What if¡­¡±


    Mitch cut him off, exasperated by his naivety. Their gang leader, Alick Dury, was a minnow in the shadow of Ethan¡¯s whale.


    ¡°You¡¯re out of your depth, Brad. Alick is a nobodypared to Mr. Mitchell. Taking him down would be like swatting a fly to Mr. Mitchell.¡±


    Brad¡¯s face drained of color, haunted by the memory of their fallen friends just now. A chill of dread snaked through him; he had no desire to join the dead. ¡°So, what¡¯s the n now?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Keep your mouth shut and follow my lead. How are you this dense?¡± Mitch snapped, raising his voice toward Ethan and hispanions. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, just name your terms. We¡¯re all ears.¡±


    Sandra, seething as she watched the thugs huddle behind her car like it was their shield, felt her blood boil. She didn¡¯t want to protect them.


    Without a second thought, she floored the gas, tearing away and leaving Mitch and his crew exposed in the open. The goons scrambled in a panic, wanting to dive for cover.


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    Ethan and Brenna shared a wry chuckle at the scene. Ethan¡¯s voice remained calm as a still pond. ¡°Drop your weapons, hands in the air, and step forward.¡±


    Mitch and Brad froze, torn between tossing their guns¡ªa move that felt like signing their own death warrants¡ªand defying an order that would surely seal their fates.


    Mitch, swallowing hard, took the lead, tossing his gun aside and stepping forward.


    He even patted himself down, flinging a knife to the asphalt to prove his sincerity.


    Ethan and Brenna emerged from behind their cover, Ethan¡¯s expression faintly approving of the thugs¡¯ surrender, though his tone stayed cold.


    ¡°Want to live? Speak the truth. One lie, and you¡¯re done for,¡± he said.


    Gary and Felix closed in, their barrels locked on the petrified thugs, who didn¡¯t dare twitch.


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 Chapter 1522

    ?Chapter 1522:


    Brenna cut straight to the chase. ¡°Who sent you here?¡±


    Mitch didn¡¯t hesitate. ¡°Loretta. She shelled out two hundred grand for us to take Sandra out.¡±


    Sandra, just stepping out of her car, felt her heart lurch. She had pegged Andres as the mastermind, furious over her rejection. But the truth was that Loretta was behind all this. That revtion shocked her.


    Yet, on second thought, it made sense.


    Brenna¡¯s lips curled in disdain. ¡°Killing a Harper heiress only needs a measly two hundred thousand?¡±


    Mitch fumbled, quickly saying, ¡°That¡¯s just how much she paid¡­¡±


    Ethan nced at Brenna, his voice a low murmur. ¡°What do you want to do about this?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s expression turned to steel. ¡°Loretta has gone too far, targeting a Harper.¡±


    Turning to Sandra, she asked, ¡°How do you want to deal with Loretta?¡±


    Sandra hadn¡¯t thought that far ahead. She wanted Loretta to pay, no question, but she didn¡¯t dare say she wanted her killed. ¡°I want her to suffer,¡± she said. ¡°Not dead¡ªruined. Humiliated so thoroughly that she¡¯ll never recover from it.¡±


    She met Brenna¡¯s gaze, uncertainty flickering. ¡°Does that make me cruel? Am I a bad person?¡±


    Brenna shook her head, a faint smile breaking through. ¡°Not in the least. You¡¯re going easy on her. She tried to have you killed, and you¡¯re just teaching her a lesson.¡±


    Sandra nodded, reassured by Brenna¡¯s words.


    Mitch, ever the opportunist, sensed a chance to jump ship. ¡°Leave it to us. We¡¯ll make sure you¡¯re satisfied. We¡¯ll torch her reputation so badly that she¡¯ll wish she had never crossed you.¡±


    He had noticed Ethan deferring to Brenna, and that was all the information he needed. Switching allegiance to her¡ªor Ethan¡ªfelt like a far better bet than sticking with Alick.


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    A spark of hope gleamed in his eyes. ¡°Miss, just say the word, and it¡¯s done. I¡¯m ready to work for you.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s icy stare pinned him in ce. ¡°Don¡¯t get too cozy. Do this right, and then we¡¯ll talk.¡±


    Mitch grinned like he had hit the jackpot. ¡°No worries¡ªI¡¯ll get it done in no time.¡±


    Brenna could see Mitch was clever, quick totch onto whoever promised a better deal. But guys like him had a weakness¡ªthey would switch allegiances the moment a bigger yer showed up. One couldn¡¯t rely on them for anything critical. For now, she would keep him under close watch.


    Mitch stepped forward, all enthusiasm, pitching himself. ¡°Miss, I¡¯m Mitch Kirk. Thrilled to serve you. From here on, I¡¯m your guy. Whatever you need, I¡¯m on it.¡±


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 Chapter 1523

    ?Chapter 1523:


    Brenna gave a half-smile. ¡°Smooth talker, huh? Do this job well, and we¡¯ll see where it goes.¡±


    Sandra watched, struck by Brenna¡¯smand, feeling the vast gap between them.


    Against thugs and opportunists, she could only cower, but Brenna handled them with ease, seizing control effortlessly. For the first time, Sandra grasped how different they were.


    Grateful, she turned to Brenna, her voice sincere. ¡°Thank you, Brenna¡­¡±


    She wanted to say more, to spill her gratitude, but Brenna¡¯s cool, detached gaze cut her off.


    Sandra¡¯s heart sank, recalling how she had once snapped at Brenna to stay out of her business.


    What a fool she had been.


    Pushing away the only Harper who had shown her kindness, all for a jerk like Andres.


    Her taste in men was downright awful.


    ¡°Get in,¡± Brenna said, gesturing to her car.


    Sandra nced at her own vehicle. Noticing it, Felix quickly said, ¡°Miss, I¡¯ll drive your car back.¡±


    Sandra couldn¡¯t shake the sense that, to Brenna, she ranked below even a bodyguard. Jordy¡¯s advice about hiring security rang in her head¡ªmaybe it was time for that.


    She had so much to say to Brenna, but Brenna¡¯s attitude made it clear she wasn¡¯t in the mood to talk to her.


    Sandra slid into the car, deciding to wait until they were home to speak.


    Brenna and Ethan climbed into Ethan¡¯s car.


    Ethan told Neville to floor it; they were off to Belen¡¯s ce. He hadn¡¯t seen her in a while and wanted to visit her before the wedding.


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    The trunk was loaded with Belen¡¯s favorite treats, some cash, and a new wedding photo album she had been eager to see.


    They stayed at Belen¡¯s ce for dinner.


    By the time Brenna got home, it was almost eleven.


    Sandra, still awake, had left her bedroom door open to catch Brenna¡¯s arrival.


    Hearing footsteps, she rushed out. ¡°Brenna!¡±


    Brenna¡¯s face stayed distant, almost icy. ¡°Is there something you want to tell me?¡±


    The coldness stung. Sandra realized winning Brenna back after her mistake would take work.


    Brenna sensed this wasn¡¯t just about gratitude. ¡°Come to my room,¡± she said.


    Sandra followed. Brenna, unfazed, added, ¡°I¡¯m going to shower and change first. Wait for me.¡±


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 Chapter 1524

    ?Chapter 1524:


    Sandra didn¡¯t dare protest and sat quietly.


    Exhausted, Brenna soon emerged from the shower and sank onto a small couch. ¡°So, what do you want to say to me?¡±


    Just then, Julia brought in a ss of milk and set it down. ¡°Miss Harper, I have washed the new clothes and hung them in your closet, middle section.¡±


    Brenna nodded. ¡°Thanks.¡±


    Once Julia left, Sandra spoke. ¡°Brenna, thank you for today. I don¡¯t know how I would have survived without you.¡±


    Brenna had already pegged Sandra as naive and wary of the Harpers. She had tried to help Sandra once, but Sandra had pushed her away.


    So, she had decided to step back, treating Sandra like a distant acquaintance, her heart no longer open to her


    ¡°No need to thank me, Sandra. You¡¯re my sister, a member of the Harper family. If you¡¯re in trouble, I¡¯m not about to stand idly by,¡± Brenna said, though her voicecked warmth.


    Sandra¡¯s heart twinged with exasperation. She had bared her soul, yet Brenna remained distant, far from the warm, caring sister she had once known.


    Undeterred, Sandra said, ¡°I messed up big time before, saying harsh things to you because of Andres. I waspletely taken in by him and misjudged you terribly. Could you forgive me for that? I promise, from now on, I¡¯ll heed your advice and stop overanalyzing things. Dad, Giselle, Ernst, and Dalton¡ªthey¡¯re my true family, the ones who genuinely care about me. I was such a fool before. Please don¡¯t hold it against me.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s guarded expression softened slightly. ¡°Do you really mean that?¡±


    Sandra let out a sigh of relief, sensing the first cracks in Brenna¡¯s walls. ¡°Absolutely! I¡¯m determined to get along with the whole family from now on.¡±


    Brenna gave a small nod. ¡°You don¡¯t need to stress so much about it.¡±


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    But Sandra was still stressed. She yearned to win over the entire Harper family, yet it felt like they all had a chip on their shoulder about her¡ªsome even seemed to hold a grudge. So far, only Brenna and Shepard had given her the time of day. Navigating the dynamics of a wealthy family like the Harpers was no walk in the park.


    ¡°I feel like the others all despise me, especially Giselle,¡± Sandra confessed. ¡°I get it¡ªmy identity makes it tough for her to warm up to me. I shouldn¡¯t expect miracles. As long as she doesn¡¯t make my life harder, I¡¯ll count my blessings.¡±


    Brenna nodded knowingly. She remembered her days with the Barrett family; no matter how hard she had tried, they had never been pleased.


    She said, ¡°It¡¯ste already. Go back to your room to get some rest¡ªthis isn¡¯t something that resolves in a day or two anyway.¡±


    Sandra, having gained the reassurance she sought, nodded and slipped back to her room.


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 Chapter 1525

    ?Chapter 1525:


    The next morning, the Harper family gathered around the table for breakfast.


    Sandra had risen before the sun, pouring her heart into making homemade pies for everyone. The family adored her cooking, and she was thrilled to do it¡ªnot because she saw herself as a servant, but because she longed to be embraced as one of their own.


    She wasn¡¯t daunted by the effort, knowing the reward would be worth it.


    She ced the pies on the table with a radiant smile. ¡°I whipped up four vors today. Dig in!¡±


    This time, she didn¡¯t need to pass them to the others¡ªeveryone eagerly helped themselves.


    Her heart swelled with pride; her efforts were finally bearing fruit.


    Halfway through the meal, she gathered her courage and said, ¡°Dad, Giselle¡­ I ran into some trouble yesterday.¡±


    No one looked up. Only the clinking of cutlery responded to her. Feeling invisible, she bit back the rest of her words. But then, Shepard spoke.


    ¡°Felix told me about it. From now on, don¡¯t drive yourself. Let Pete drive you. He is skilled, and he can protect you.¡±


    Tears brimmed in Sandra¡¯s eyes. She had always believed the Harpers wouldn¡¯t care if she lived or died, but that was not the case.


    At that moment, she felt her father¡¯s care.


    ¡°Thank you, Dad. Thank you, Giselle.¡± She knew Shepard wouldn¡¯t have made this decision without Giselle¡¯s agreement. She felt gratitude toward them both.


    ¡°No need for thanks,¡± Shepard replied. ¡°Just be cautious. When Ernst was a little boy, he was kidnapped. Harper children always have bodyguards. Even Brenna got lost when she was a child. Safetyes first.¡±


    Ernst, seated nearby, finally spoke. His voice was cold, edged with authority that made the air feel heavy. ¡°The one behind it was Loretta, wasn¡¯t it?¡±


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    Sandra hesitated, unable to meet his gaze. For the first time, she felt the full weight of Ernst¡¯s presence¡ªthemanding aura of a man who ran a bigpany. It was suffocating. ¡°Yeah,¡± she whispered. ¡°It was her.¡±


    ¡°I see,¡± Ernst replied.


    Brenna leaned toward Ernst, curious. ¡°Are you nning to teach her a lesson?¡±


    Ernst gave a nod. ¡°Just a small one.¡±


    Something inside Sandra softened. The Harper family truly cared about her, even if showing it wasn¡¯t their style.


    She gave Ernst a grateful smile. ¡°Thanks for looking out for me,¡± she said, her voice sincere.


    It struck her then; she had never felt this sheltered before, not even during all the years with her mother and stepfather.


    This simple sense of belonging made her want to let go of any lingering resentment or ns for payback.


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 Chapter 1526

    ?Chapter 1526:


    Her thoughts drifted to the wrecked car from the day before. She said, ¡°Dad, Giselle, Ernst, Brenna, I wanted to talk about the car from yesterday. It took quite a beating, and I¡¯m not sure what the repairs will cost¡­¡±


    Shepard¡¯s gaze was steady, his voice free of me. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about the car. The important thing is that you¡¯re alright. We¡¯ll send it for repair. In the meantime, just use one of the others.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, Dad. I¡¯m just thinking¡­ fixing a ten-million-dor car has got to be expensive. I hope it¡¯s not a huge problem,¡± Sandra said, watching their faces for any sign of irritation. But no one seemed upset, and another weight lifted off her chest.


    Shepard¡¯s lips quirked into a rare smile. ¡°That car rolled off our own assembly line. Repairs are on us; there¡¯s no billing your way. You¡¯re a Harper heiress. We take care of our own.¡±


    Relief bubbled out in augh from Sandra. ¡°Guess I forgot for a second. I just hated messing up something that expensive.¡±


    Shepard waved it off, barely bothered. ¡°It¡¯s just a car, Sandra. Don¡¯t worry about it.¡±


    Ernst added with a reassuring nod, ¡°The only thing that matters is you¡¯re safe.¡±


    A small smile grew on Sandra¡¯s face as she realized the truth: the Harper family really were good people.


    Later that morning, Sandra¡¯s bodyguard chauffeured her to work.


    Rolling out with a bodyguard in tow, Sandra finally felt like she belonged to the family in every sense of the word.


    Brenna set out as well, riding with Ethan while Gary followed behind in her car.


    At lunch, in the busypany cafeteria, Brenna and Ethan were glued to their phones. They came across the news of Loretta, spotted sneaking into a hotel with Andres.


    A nasty flood ofments trailed every post about Loretta. Hired trolls piled on, dragging her name through the mud until she was trending for all the worst reasons.


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    Apparently, Loretta had just been dropped from two uing TV dramas, hertest gigs vanishing overnight.


    Brenna read the news, nodding with satisfaction. Mitch had wasted no time striking back, and every blownded exactly where it hurt the most.


    When the workday wrapped up, Sandra made her way over to her mom¡¯s ce. Since the maid hade on board, she hadn¡¯t stopped by as often.


    The ce was tidy, every corner gleaming, and Keira was in an unusually good mood, ambling around outside with the maid.


    ¡°Mom!¡± Sandra called out, arms loaded down with bags of fresh groceries.


    Keira¡¯s face broke into a broad grin. ¡°Well, look who finally remembered her mother! Haven¡¯t seen you in ages!¡±


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 Chapter 1527

    ?Chapter 1527:


    She threw a nce at the luxury sedan parked at the curb, noticing the driver waiting nearby. Clearly, the Harpers were treating her daughter well.


    Her curiosity red. ¡°You changed your car. Is this one yours?¡±


    The maid stepped up and took the grocery bags with a polite smile. ¡°You two catch up. I¡¯ll get started on dinner.¡±


    Sandra fell in step with her mom, replying, ¡°I¡¯ve been buried in design work. The car isn¡¯t really mine, but the Harper family lets me use all of their cars now. Dad has even started treating me like I belong.¡±


    Keira hardly seemed to care about the details, just delighted for her daughter. ¡°That¡¯s what I¡¯m talking about! Enjoy the perks, honey.¡±


    As they passed the car, Keira shot the driver a little wave. ¡°That guy¡¯s the personal driver the Harpers arranged for you?¡±


    Sandra decided not to mention her recent incident, not wanting to make her mom worry. ¡°Yeah, he¡¯s both my driver and bodyguard,¡± she answered.


    But it didn¡¯t take long for Keira to fall back into old patterns.


    ¡°Has Shepard handed you any money yet?¡±


    One look at her mother¡¯s expectant expression and Sandra knew what wasing. If she told the truth about her new allowance, Keira would be asking her for money in no time. So she lied, ¡°Not really. But Brenna¡¯s taking me shopping tomorrow. She¡¯ll probably spoil me with a few new outfits.¡±


    Keira¡¯s expression sank, the disappointment in on her face. ¡°What a stingy jerk, can¡¯t even bother giving¡­¡±


    you a little spending money. Oh well. When you and Brenna go out tomorrow, pick up something for me too, alright?¡±


    Sandra gave a warm nod, assuring Keira she would buy her some new outfits.


    ¡°Alright, tell me about the nanny,¡± Sandra said, her voice tinged with concern.


    ¡°She is fantastic. She cooks delicious meals, chats easily with me, and works tirelessly. Honestly, I would give anything to live in a grand mansion like the Harpers,¡± Keira replied, her eyes sparkling with envy.


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    She looked at Sandra, a swell of pride in her heart, thinking that bringing Sandra into the world was her greatest achievement.


    After a pause, she continued, ¡°By the way, I ran into Corinna¡¯s son yesterday. He mentioned Corinna still hasn¡¯t returned. Do you think something terrible happened to her? I mean, Corinna isn¡¯t all bad¡­¡±


    Sandra cut Keira off, her voice sharp with anger. ¡°Hasn¡¯t she caused you enough trouble? If she hadn¡¯t egged you on to gamble abroad, would you have lost your hand? She is reaping what she sowed.¡±


    Keira nced at the empty space where her left hand had once been, nodding slowly. Corinna¡¯s intentions had always been questionable.


    ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± she admitted. ¡°If it weren¡¯t for her, I wouldn¡¯t have gone overseas to gamble and lost my hand. Sandra, I swear I¡¯m done with gambling. If only I hadn¡¯t lost that eleven million¡­¡±


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 Chapter 1528

    ?Chapter 1528:


    Sandra spent a long while gently scolding Keira, telling her never to gamble again.


    The next morning, Brenna stayed in bed until noon, then slipped into a rxed outfit and grabbed her bag before heading downstairs.


    ¡°Brenna!¡± Sandra called out, waiting in the living room. She approached her with a shy smile. ¡°I overheard you on the phone yesterday, nning a shopping trip with your friend. Mind if I tag along?¡±


    Brenna gave her a cool nce and shrugged. ¡°Sure, let¡¯s shop together.¡±


    Gary took the wheel, with Felix riding shotgun, while Sandra and Brenna settled into the back of the spacious seven-seater MPV. Their first stop was Ellie¡¯s ce.


    Tori flung open the door, her face lighting up with a warm smile as she epted a gift from Brenna.


    ¡°Hello, Mrs. Moore,¡± Sandra greeted politely.


    Tori¡¯s eyes flickered with curiosity as she noticed Sandra trailing behind Brenna.


    ¡°Come in!¡± she said to Brenna warmly. ¡°Ellie has been buzzing about you for days, waiting to feel well enough to hit the shops. She is thrilled about today. And this¡­¡±


    ¡°is¡­¡± Brenna caught the spark of curiosity in Tori¡¯s gaze. ¡°This is my sister, Sandra Harper.¡±


    Even under Tori¡¯s steady stare, Sandra kept her poise and repeated politely, ¡°Hello, Mrs. Moore.¡±


    Tori nodded knowingly. She had heard whispers of the Harper family¡¯s illegitimate daughter¡ªsuch scandals were par for the course in high society. Even a distinguished family like the Harpers wasn¡¯t spared. It made her wonder if a simpler life might be the better path.


    ¡°Oh, Miss Harper, pleasee in as well!¡± Tori said warmly.


    Ellie emerged, dressed to the nines, with Patrick trailing close behind.


    ¡°Brenna, you slept till noon again?¡± Ellie said. ¡°I have been waiting for you for a long time.¡±


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    Patrick¡¯s face lit up as he greeted Brenna, his eyes quicklynding on the bodyguard lugging a massive box behind her. ¡°Whoa, Brenna! What is in this box?¡± he asked, waving the bodyguard over with excitement.


    The bodyguard shed a grin and helped Patrick unpack it.


    ¡°It¡¯s a model of a drone I designed,¡± Brenna replied. ¡°Scaled at 1:10. Have fun with it.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, Brenna!¡± Patrick eximed, pping his hands as he marveled at the drone. ¡°You can go shopping. I¡¯m staying home to y with this!¡±


    Ellie gently reminded Patrick, ¡°Be good at home, alright?¡±


    With that, the group stepped outside and slid into Brenna¡¯s car.


    Sandra couldn¡¯t take her eyes off Ellie. There was something strikingly familiar about her, but the memory danced just out of reach, teasing her thoughts.


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 Chapter 1529

    ?Chapter 1529:


    It wasn¡¯t until they were nearly at the mall that the puzzle piece clicked into ce. Sandra¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Miss Moore, aren¡¯t you the genius behind the M&G brand? The world-renowned fashion designer?¡±


    Ellie gave a calm nod. ¡°That¡¯s me. Have we met before?¡±


    Sandra¡¯s jaw dropped. Brenna¡¯s circle included people of such extraordinary caliber. She couldn¡¯t even begin to match that.


    Her gaze sparkled with awe as she looked at Ellie. She had always pictured the M&G founder as a distinguished, middle-aged man, not this vibrant, youthful woman.


    ¡°I¡¯m a huge fan of yours!¡± Sandra eximed, her voice brimming with excitement. ¡°Your designs are incredible, adored by elite clients everywhere. I¡¯m a fashion designer, too, and you¡¯re my absolute idol! Meeting you is a dreame true!¡±


    She eagerly extended her hand toward Ellie, her eyes shining with admiration


    Ellie didn¡¯t like Sandra, but she knew that Brenna had brought Sandra along to introduce her to new connections and opportunities.


    So, despite her thoughts, she still shook hands with Sandra. ¡°Pleasure,¡± she said curtly.


    Sandra took Ellie¡¯s chilly attitude in stride. She figured people at the top probably just acted this way. The important part was getting introduced. There was plenty of timeter to build a good rtionship.


    The group made their way to their regr seafood joint. tes piled high, sses clinked, andughter filled the table until they decided to go shopping.


    Once the group reached the busy pedestrian street, Ellie leaned close to Brenna and let out a sigh. ¡°You know, ever since I had the baby, Thiago has been on this crazy health kick for me. He¡¯s always searching for new recipes, having the chef cook up all sorts of fancy meals. He even brought in a postpartum specialist. The food he cooks is so good that I can¡¯t seem to stop myself. Now look at me¡ªI can¡¯t button any of my jeans. Thiago¡¯s also got me on lockdown, always telling me I need more time at home to recover. It took a week of convincing just to get out today.¡±


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    Brennaughed and gently pinched her cheek. ¡°No kidding, your face is a little fuller these days.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s eyes widened with real envy. ¡°Honestly, Ellie, your husband is so good to you. I wish I could find someone half as thoughtful.¡±


    Ellie gave her a nonchnt look. ¡°Yeah. He is wonderful to me.¡± Beyond that, she offered nothing¡ªno warmth, no extra words.


    Sandra didn¡¯t mind that. She was determined to make inroads with Brenna¡¯s crowd and the Harper family, but she understood that things like this took time. She was patient.


    Ellie¡¯s nce at Brenna spoke volumes. She clearly wasn¡¯t thrilled to have Sandra tagging along.


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 Chapter 1530

    ?Chapter 1530:


    Brenna met her gaze, gave a resigned shrug, and said nothing about it.


    Just likest time, Brenna bought Sandra new outfits and bags. The spending spree was so generous that even Ellie¡¯s eyebrows shot up.


    While Sandra was distracted by a dress, Ellie asked Brenna in a low voice, ¡°Why are you spoiling her like this? She puts on that sweet-girl act, but I¡¯d bet money she¡¯s not as innocent as she looks. Wait and see¡ªshe¡¯ll show you what she¡¯s really after.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to bend over backward for her just for the Harper family¡¯s reputation. Keep your guard up around her, Brenna.¡±


    Brenna shed a quick smile. ¡°I get it. Honestly, I¡¯m just making sure she¡¯s got something decent to wear. If she walks around in cheap clothes, people will talk, and it¡¯ll reflect badly on my mom.¡±


    Truthfully, Brenna felt stuck in the middle. She saw how Giselle recoiled at Sandra¡¯s presence but also how afraid she was of beingbeled heartless toward her husband¡¯s child from another woman.


    Sandra¡¯s arrival had stirred up a storm at home. Brenna remembered overhearing Giselle rant to Shepard about everyone whispering behind her back about the ¡°illegitimate kid.¡± With all that in mind, Brenna decided it was easier to smooth things over, saving her mom some stress.


    Suddenly, someone called out, ¡°Sandra?¡±


    Sandra paused mid¨Cmirror check, holding a pale blue sweater against her chest.


    She spun around and saw a young clerk in a tidy uniform with a fixed smile. The name tag read Lily Haywood.


    Lily, seeing Sandra¡¯s confusion, introduced herself, saying, ¡°It¡¯s Lily¡ªremember me? Middle school? I always ended up behind you, borrowing your homework every other day.¡±


    Recognition dawned as Sandra recalled the chubby-cheeked girl with a pixie cut.


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    She managed a polite smile, though her eyes betrayed a trace of scorn. ¡°Wow, Lily. So you¡¯re working here now?¡±


    Lily¡¯s smile stayed in ce. ¡°Yeah. This sweater is over seventy grand. I think it suits you.¡±


    As Lily took in Sandra¡¯s designer outfit, she couldn¡¯t help but raise an eyebrow. Back in school, Sandra had never been the rich girl. Where did all this luxurye from? The only exnation Lily coulde up with was that Sandra must have found herself a wealthy boyfriend.


    ¡°Go ahead and try it on. It¡¯s designer¡ªreally elegant,¡± Lily said, keeping her voice light, though underneath it all, she still thought Sandra was beneath her. Back in middle school, Sandra had been in and awkward, nothing like the polished version standing here now. People used to whisper that her mom had a gambling problem and owed money all over town. There was no way she¡¯d be living like this now unless some rich guy was footing the bill.


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 Chapter 1531

    ?Chapter 1531:


    Curiosity got the best of Lily as she asked, ¡°So, you¡¯ve got a boyfriend now?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m single; I don¡¯t have a boyfriend,¡± Sandra replied, puzzled by Lily¡¯s assumption. She noticed a trace of malice glinting in Lily¡¯s eyes.


    Lily, masking her skepticism, murmured under her breath that Sandra¡¯svish wardrobe could only be funded by a wealthy benefactor. Still, she maintained a courteous fa?ade, assisting Sandra with a smile while helping her try on outfits.


    Sandra pulled on a chic sweater, admiring her reflection in the mirror.


    Lily said, ¡°That looks stunning! Perfect for you. I just remembered we got a wool skirt from yesterday¡¯s delivery that would match it beautifully. Let me fetch it.¡±


    Sandra gave a nod, feeling refined and poised, like she belonged in high society.


    As Lily darted to the new stock, a colleague sidled up and whispered, ¡°That wealthy woman over there, is she a friend of yours?¡±


    ncing at Sandra, who was still striking poses in the mirror, Lily lowered her voice. ¡°We went to middle school together. Her family was broke back then¡ªno way she could afford these clothes now. I¡¯m telling you, she has to be funded by some rich old man. I asked if she had a boyfriend, and she denied it. Ha, who is she fooling? Acting all pure when she¡¯s clearly being kept by some rich guy. Why lie?¡±


    Her coworker turned to nce at Sandra¡ªand froze, gasping. Sandra stood right behind them now. The coworker quickly slipped away, leaving Lily chattering, unaware of the situation.


    ¡°I¡¯m pushing the priciest items on her to boost mymission¡­¡±


    When her colleague didn¡¯t reply, Lily turned and saw Sandra, arms folded, staring daggers at her.


    Panic surged¡ªshe didn¡¯t know how much Sandra had overheard, but if it was everything, she would be in serious trouble.


    This upscale boutique had strict rules¡ªno gossiping about clients, no digging into their personal affairs. She had crossed a line. If the manager found out about this, her bonus would be gone.


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    Flustered, she stumbled over an apology. ¡°Sandra, I¡ªI was just joking! Don¡¯t take it to heart.¡±


    Sandra smirked faintly. ¡°I¡¯m not a kept woman. You think I can¡¯t buy nice things without a man footing the bill?¡±


    Lily fumbled, her apology wobbly. ¡°Sandra, that¡¯s not what I meant! We were ssmates, right? I was just wondering, no harm intended. Look, I¡¯ll give you a 20% off coupon. Can we just drop this? Pretend I was babbling nonsense. I don¡¯t care how you got to where you are now¡ªI won¡¯t mention it again.¡±


    Her words sounded earnest, but inwardly Lily was furious, convinced Sandra was a kept woman. How else could she afford such luxury? And she was still denying it? How shameless.


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 Chapter 1532

    ?Chapter 1532:


    Sandra shrugged. ¡°You always gossiped behind people¡¯s backs in school, didn¡¯t you? Over ten yearster, and you¡¯re still the same. No growth whatsoever.¡±


    Lily burned with anger but couldn¡¯tsh out. ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to bad-mouth you. Why are you being so petty about it? I¡¯m offering a discount¡ª20% off saves you thousands! Isn¡¯t that enough?¡±


    Just then, Brenna and Ellie, sensing tension, abandoned the racks they were browsing and walked over.


    As frequent shoppers, Brenna and Ellie were being personally attended to by the store manager, who tagged along.


    The manager fixed her gaze on Lily. ¡°What¡¯s the issue here?¡±


    Lily cast a frantic, imploring look at Sandra.


    Brenna, brow furrowed, asked, ¡°Sandra, what¡¯s going on?¡±


    Brushing off Lily¡¯s silent plea, Sandra replied coolly, ¡°She said I must be kept by some rich old man.¡±


    Lily¡¯s stomach churned¡ªshe was in deep trouble. This fancy woman was obviously close to Sandra, and Sandra really wasn¡¯t anyone¡¯s mistress.


    The manager¡¯s expression turned grim as she sharply addressed Lily. ¡°Lily, what¡¯s this boutique¡¯s primary rule? Did it slip your mind?¡±


    Trembling, Lily faced her. ¡°I messed up big time. I shouldn¡¯t have said that. I¡¯ll make it right with her.¡±


    She pivoted to Sandra, saying, ¡°I¡¯m truly sorry!¡±


    Knowing some clients could be stubborn, the manager wasn¡¯t certain if Brenna or Sandra would let the matter slide.


    She turned to Brenna. ¡°Miss Harper, please don¡¯t judge her too harshly. I¡¯ll reprimand her firmly and cut her bonus for the month. How about that?¡±


    Brenna figured that solution was fine, so she stayed quiet and just nced over at Sandra.


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    Sandra, on the other hand, was far from calm. The dislike she carried for Lily ran deep. Back in their school days, Lily had always treated her with condescension, and nothing about that had changed. The memory still burned inside her. ring at Lily, Sandra said nothing, her frustration obvious in the way she looked at her.


    Brenna remained silent but couldn¡¯t help wondering why Sandra was still hung up on something that seemed so minor.


    Still, she assumed Sandra had her own reasons and chose to stay out of it.


    The store manager, having noticed the tension, marched over and scolded Lily in front of everyone. ¡°What¡¯s the first rule around here? Repeat it.¡±


    At that moment, Lily saw clearly that Sandra had no intention of letting the matter go. To her, Sandra was making a huge deal out of a harmless remark. Honestly, was it really worth all this fuss? In Lily¡¯s view, Sandra came off like a woman living off the pampering of some sugar daddy.


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 Chapter 1533

    ?Chapter 1533:


    She absolutely despised Sandra.


    But Sandra was a paying customer here. The manager was treating her respectfully, and the woman close to her was a frequent customer.


    Lily quietly cursed her own luck. Back in their school days, she had often mocked Sandra, who had never once stood up for herself and always carried herself as if she had no backbone. That was why Lily hadn¡¯t thought twice about speaking so harshly to her earlier.


    What she couldn¡¯t ept the most was realizing that Sandra was no longer the pushover she had once been.


    Reluctantly, Lily recited the rule, swallowing her pride.


    ¡°Customers are always right, and they alwayse first. Show them respect, no exceptions. Never talk about clients behind their backs.¡±


    She shot Sandra a desperate look, silently begging for forgiveness. Weren¡¯t they ssmates once? Surely Sandra could let this slide.


    The manager¡¯s patience snapped. ¡°If you¡¯re aware of the rules, why did you still talk about a customer behind her back? ¡°I expect you to give her a genuine apology, right now.¡±


    Although her insides churned with resentment, Lily had no choice but to bow low in front of Sandra. ¡°I¡¯m really sorry, Sandra. I messed up. I shouldn¡¯t have said anything behind your back. Please, don¡¯t hold it against me. I just started working here, and finding this job wasn¡¯t easy. Please forgive me.¡±


    Sandra finally felt her anger ease a little as she saw Lily swallow her pride. ¡°Fine, I forgive you.¡±


    Still, the manager¡¯s opinion of Lily plummeted. Nearly losing the top client here because of one careless employee was inexcusable. Sandra, after all, came from the Harper family, who visited the store every so often to shop. Sometimes, he would even call Brenna and Giselle to let them know about new arrivals and reserve items for them.


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    One careless move, and Lily had almost driven away the biggest spenders.


    Just saying sorry didn¡¯t cut it. Any staff member like Lily who talked trash about customers should be fired.


    Addressing everyone, the manager warned, ¡°If this happens again, you¡¯ll be fired. Remember, you¡¯re still on probation.¡±


    A wave of panic washed over Lily; she was terrified her days here were numbered.


    Sandra, cool and collected, shot Lily a look and said, ¡°Get me someone else. I don¡¯t like her.¡±


    Instantly, the manager nodded. ¡°Polly,e here.¡±


    The other sales assistants looked at Lily with pity, fully aware that upsetting a VIP could get her fired for even the smallest mistake.


    Lily understood that all too well, frustration and regret bubbling inside her.


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 Chapter 1534

    ?Chapter 1534:


    Sandra deliberately picked out the priciest and most stylish pieces, determined to draw everyone¡¯s attention to what she had chosen.


    Watching Sandra splurge, Lily felt a pang of regret hit her.


    After Brenna and the others left the store, they kept shopping for another two hours. During this time, Sandra made a point of charming Ellie, chatting with her about all sorts of topics.


    As the clock edged toward four in the afternoon, Ellie was busy flipping through racks at another boutique when her phone buzzed. It was a call from one of the designers at her studio.


    ¡°Ellie, I¡¯ve reworked this draft a bunch of times, but the client¡¯s still not satisfied. I¡¯m honestly out of ideas. Can youe by and give it a look?¡±


    Sandra stood by quietly, taking in every word.


    Ellie didn¡¯t hesitate and replied, ¡°No problem, I¡¯m just around the corner. I¡¯ll stop by and help you out.¡±


    As they made their way over, Sandra couldn¡¯t help but unload her frustrations about Lily to Brenna.


    Listening to her, Brenna and Ellie both realized something: Sandra usually didn¡¯t let small things get under her skin, but with Lily, it was different. That girl really had a bad character.


    Once they reached Ellie¡¯s studio, Ellie immediately went to review the drafts with the designer. Meanwhile, Brenna and Sandra wandered through the creative workspace, taking in the atmosphere.


    Sandra¡¯s eyes widened in amazement at the sight of so many breathtaking finished pieces on disy. Each one looked like it belonged in a high-end boutique.


    Scattered among the masterpieces were countless works in progress, every single one hinting at future greatness. She couldn¡¯t help but feel awestruck by the sheer talent on disy.


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    Although she already knew Ellie was brilliant, she hadn¡¯t realized Ellie¡¯s whole team was just as skilled.


    The level of artistry made her a bit envious.


    Thinking no one was watching, Sandra quickly snapped a few photos with her phone, hoping to spark some new ideas for herselfter on.


    She wasn¡¯t nning to copy; she just wanted a little inspiration. After tucking her phone away, Sandra tried to act casual, pretending to browse the fabrics and patterns scattered around the studio. The more she saw, the more she felt like she still had a lot to learn.


    When the studio visit wrapped up, the three of them headed out to dinner before going their separate ways for the night.


    Once Ellie was dropped off, Brenna and Sandra sat together in the car in silence, neither of them saying a word for a while.


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 Chapter 1535

    ?Chapter 1535:


    Sandra noticed the chill in Brenna¡¯s expression and couldn¡¯t help but feel uneasy.


    She thought about breaking the silence a few times, but Brenna¡¯s distant demeanor made her hesitate each time.


    As they were about to arrive home, Brenna finally broke the silence. ¡°I saw you taking those pictures secretly earlier.¡±


    A jolt of panic shot through Sandra. She had been sure she¡¯d been subtle, but Brenna had still seen her doing it.


    Now she had no idea how to exin this.


    What would Brenna think of her now?


    Had she already told Ellie about it?


    Questions raced through Sandra¡¯s head, each one worse than thest.


    Brenna continued, ¡°Ellie saw it, too. She just didn¡¯t call you out on it.¡±


    Relief washed over Sandra, and she blurted out, ¡°I promise I won¡¯t giarize anyone¡¯s work! My whole future is at stake here. I just admire her team¡¯s designs and wanted to learn a thing or two. I¡¯d never copy them, I swear!¡±


    Brenna¡¯s expression stayed cool. ¡°You¡¯d better keep that promise. Copying other people¡¯s designs will end your career before it even starts. In this industry, that¡¯s the one thing you can¡¯te back from as a designer. You¡¯ve got real talent for design, Sandra, don¡¯t throw your future away for something so small.¡±


    ¡°I get it, and I really hope you believe me,¡± Sandra muttered, cheeks burning with shame.


    Brenna said, ¡°Honestly, Ellie has been watching you from the moment you walked in. She¡¯s protective of her work; she only allowed you inside her studio because you went there with me.¡±


    Regret gnawed at Sandra. Maybe she never should¡¯ve entered the studio in the first ce.


    She clutched her phone, tempted to erase the pictures right then, but couldn¡¯t bring herself to do it. She genuinely wanted to use them for inspiration.


    Brenna waited, silently expecting her to delete the photos, but Sandra hesitated.


    Disappointment flickered in Brenna¡¯s eyes.


    Back in her room, Sandra sat on her bed, scrolling through the photos she¡¯d taken, torn between deleting them or keeping them for inspiration.


    She knew she had no ns to steal any ideas. Was it really so wrong to save a few reference shots? Ellie¡¯s design would eventually be made public anyway, so what was the big deal?


    The more Sandra reyed Brenna¡¯s words in her mind, the more frustrated she became. Who was Brenna to lecture her like that?


    It feltpletely unfair.


    Trying to distract herself, she mindlessly flicked through her phone until shended on a video. It showed Loretta in a spicy oldmercial, nearly baring it all. The clip didn¡¯tst long, but it was enough to cause a stir.


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 Chapter 1536

    ?Chapter 1536:


    The video had already gone viral, racking up thousands of shares andments, most of them nasty.


    Another headline was trending as well: Andres, rumored to be dating a college student, kept getting spotted sneaking around with Loretta at fancy hotels.


    A sense of satisfaction bubbled up in Sandra. Finally, the people who had crossed her were paying the price. Honestly, they deserved every bit of it


    On a tranquil Sunday morning, Sandra savored a slow start, lingering in bed until nearly noon.


    She nced at her phone and found a message from Jordy, inviting her for an afternoon of tennis and a chat about investments.


    Sandra held Jordy¡¯s financial acumen in high regard and valued his open-handed approach to sharing his expertise.


    While Ethan¡¯s financial savvy surpassed even Jordy¡¯s, his aloof and frosty demeanor made him far less approachable. Jordy¡¯s warmth, however, made him a delight to connect with. Sandra promptly replied to Jordy, eagerly agreeing to meet him for their ns.


    By dinnertime, Sandra had yet to return home.


    Everyone in the Harper family, save for Sandra and Dalton, hade back.


    Giselle¡¯s face was stormy, her irritation in as day.


    Brenna, ever attentive, linked arms with her. ¡°Mom, didn¡¯t you spend the day with friends? What¡¯s got you so upset? Spill the beans, and I¡¯ll deal with whoever is to me.¡±


    Julia stepped in to help unload Giselle¡¯s car, its trunk brimming with treasures from her shopping spree¡ªelegant shoes, chic handbags, and luxurious cosmetics.


    Despite the shopping spree, Giselle¡¯s frustration lingered. She vented to Brenna.


    ¡°I was supposed to enjoy a serene spa day with Danika and Naya. Everything was perfect until we crossed paths with your aunt. She really got on my nerves by asking when we were going to throw a wee party for Sandra. She even used me of not holding a ceremony to introduce Sandra to our friends and family, like we don¡¯t like her or something.¡±


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    In truth, the notion of hosting a wee party for Sandra had never crossed Giselle¡¯s mind. Sandra had been a part of their lives for some time, and the idea had never surfaced among the family. Yet, Elva Bentley, Giselle¡¯s sister-inw, couldn¡¯t resist stirring the pot by bringing it up.


    ¡°It¡¯s not her ce to meddle. She is just itching to stir up drama in our family. Mom, don¡¯t let her rattle you,¡± Brenna said softly, trying tofort Giselle.


    Giselle wrestled to quell her simmering frustration, her anger slow to fade. ¡°Had she pulled me aside to mention it, I wouldn¡¯t be so incensed. I might¡¯ve just given her a sharp retort and left it at that. But no, she aired her thoughts in front of Danika, Naya, Elsa, Jayceon¡¯s stepmother Everlee, and his sister, for all to hear. Especially Everlee and Elsa¡ªthey pressed me on when we would host this wee party for Sandra. I was so livid that I blurted out we¡¯d throw avish celebration at Christmas. It¡¯s utterly exasperating! I swear they¡¯re all fishing for a reaction, especially Elsa¡ªshe would love nothing more than to see our family unravel. And Everlee even dared to say she wouldn¡¯t miss the party for the world.¡±


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 Chapter 1537

    ?Chapter 1537:


    Brenna¡¯s temper red just as fiercely. ¡°Our so-called friends are practically salivating for juicy gossip about us. If this is too much for you, Mom, I¡¯ll make the arrangements for the party. Let¡¯s reserve a grand hotel for Sandra¡¯s wee party and invite all the high rollers in Shirie. However, it might make you lose face a little.¡±


    Her heart ached for Giselle, who had to endure such tactless remarks while keeping herposure.


    ¡°Mom, I¡¯ll make sure to get back at them for you,¡± Brenna vowed.


    Giselle gave a nod, her resolve bolstered.


    Soon, Ernst and Lilith walked over, Lilith bearing a bottle of fine red wine.


    ¡°Giselle, I visited my parents today,¡± Lilith said warmly. ¡°My mother recently discovered this exquisite red wine and insisted I bring you a bottle.¡±


    Giselle mustered a smile. ¡°Please thank your mother for me. I¡¯ve heard this brand is exceptional. I¡¯ll be sure to savor it soon.¡±


    Lilith beamed, relieved. Her inws were well-to-do, and she had hesitated to bring a gift to them, but her mother had been adamant. Time and again, her mother reminded her it wasn¡¯t proper to return from her parents¡¯ homeden with good things without offering something to her inws.


    This red wine was a luxurious import, specially sourced from abroad at no small expense.


    Lilith had fretted that her inws might look down on her if the gift seemed too modest.


    ¡°I¡¯m so d you like it,¡± Lilith said, heartened by Giselle¡¯s warmth. She and Giselle got along well, and Giselle was also friends with her mother.


    Giselle didn¡¯t hide the matter from Lilith. ¡°You and Brenna can take charge of Sandra¡¯s wee party. Just ensure it¡¯s done impably, so no one can find fault. I truly want no part of it.¡±


    Gathered around the dining table, the Harper family had their meal set before them, yet Giselle, in a foul temper, had no desire to eat.


    Ernst, his face clouded with anger, said, ¡°I had a meeting with the Kaike Group¡¯s CEO yesterday, and even he was prying about when we¡¯re hosting Sandra¡¯s wee party. Quite the meddler, isn¡¯t he?¡±


    Lilith let out a snort. ¡°Some people have far too much idle time. Why do they care about our family¡¯s affairs? It¡¯s none of their business.¡±


    Shepard, looking equally grim, joined them at the table and said, ¡°There¡¯s more to this, I suspect. The Harper family ranks among Shirie¡¯s elite families. Usually, people are eager to curry favor with us¡ªthey wouldn¡¯t dare ridicule us. I would wager someone is orchestrating this behind the scenes.¡± His gaze, grave and steady, met Ernst¡¯s.


    Ernst nodded in agreement. ¡°I¡¯m with you, Dad, but I can¡¯t figure out who is pulling the strings.¡±


    .


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 Chapter 1538

    ?Chapter 1538:


    Brenna observed the exchange, her expression unreadable. ¡°No need to worry too much. Whoever is behind this is only bold enough to scheme in secret. They clearly can¡¯t challenge us openly in the business arena, or they would have confronted us head-on.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right, Brenna,¡± Ernst said. ¡°Still, business has been steadytely¡ªno obviouspetitors. Could this just be idle gossip? Are we reading too much into it?¡±


    Shepard shook his head, uncertain. ¡°Maybe. But we should be careful.¡±


    Brenna, surprised by their confusion, noted how cunning this hidden instigator must be to stay out of sight of both her father and brother.


    ¡°I¡¯ll dig into the matter,¡± she said, thinking she could consult Darwin for insights or have Ethan investigate for clues.


    Ernst shook his head. ¡°I¡¯ve already looked into it¡ªnothing surfaced. I¡¯m starting to think there¡¯s no puppet master, just rumors stacking up.¡±


    He shot Brenna a helpless nce. ¡°You got any unique sources?¡±


    ¡°A few well-ced allies,¡± she replied. ¡°I¡¯m not reaching out to them yet, though. I¡¯ll have Ethan and Darwin snoop around first. If they hit a dead end, I¡¯ll consider something else.¡±


    The following day, Brenna headed to work. The autonomous vehicle design drafts had been finalized, freeing up her schedule.


    She finished early and took the elevator to the ny-ninth floor to find Ethan, who hadn¡¯t yet left his office.


    Ethan, swamped with work but eager to spend more time with Brenna as their wedding neared, had offloaded most of his duties to his three vice presidents, allowing him to maintain regr hours.


    As Brenna exited the elevator, ni rushed over.


    ¡°Ms. Harper, Mr. Mitchell is nearly done. He has a visitor in his office. Would you like to go inside or wait out here?¡±


    ???????????? §ã?????????????? g??????????????????????


    Brenna caught the peculiar look on ni¡¯s face and raised an eyebrow. ¡°Who is with him?¡±


    ni sighed, unable to dodge the question. ¡°It¡¯s Gracie. She¡¯s sobbing to Mr. Mitchell right now.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s mood darkened. ¡°Didn¡¯t she get married already? Why is she here crying? Treating this office like her personal therapy room?¡±


    ni gave a faint chuckle. ¡°Could be. I just brought in coffee and overheard her venting about Waldo. Apparently, he has been cheating with two young, attractive college girls. Gracie was in a rage, crying and shouting, but Waldo didn¡¯t apologize or soothe her. He told her to stay out of it, do her work, and collect her sry, saying their marriage was just a business arrangement.¡±


    .


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 Chapter 1539

    ?Chapter 1539:


    Brenna let out a sharpugh. ¡°Waldo was obsessed with Gracie before, chasing her like a lovesick fool. Now he has already moved on from her?¡±


    ¡°Seems so,¡± ni said with a nod.


    Brenna didn¡¯t linger in conversation. She marched directly into Ethan¡¯s office


    Ethan leaned casually against his opulent desk, a cigarette dangling between his fingers, its tendrils of smoke weaving around him.


    His brows, faintly knitted, softened the instant he caught sight of Brenna, a warm smile breaking across his face. ¡°Brenna.¡±


    Brenna gave a slight nod, her tone calm. ¡°It¡¯s past work hours. You weren¡¯t heading downstairs, so I figured I would see what¡¯s keeping you. Are you wrapping up soon?¡±


    Her eyes drifted to the plush couch where Gracie sat. Gracie was delicately dabbing at her tear-streaked face with a tissue, her makeup smudged.


    Gracie¡¯s gaze snapped to Brenna, a flicker of irritation crossing her features at the intrusion. Undeterred, she poured her heart out to Ethan, her performance a touch exaggerated to needle Brenna.


    ¡°Ethan, you¡¯re my only friend here. If you don¡¯t step in to help me, Waldo will crush me,¡± she said.


    Her hand rested protectively on her rounded belly, her cries growing more fervent. ¡°I¡¯m over five months pregnant, Ethan. What am I supposed to do now? Waldo is gallivanting with two college girls, and when I told him I wanted a divorce, he just shrugged and agreed without hesitation¡­¡±


    Brenna observed Gracie¡¯s theatrical disy with a cool, skeptical eye. The tears were real enough, but something about the scene felt staged.


    Ethan, who had already postponed a critical meeting and canceled a client discussion to handle Gracie¡¯s crisis, wasn¡¯t about to let her disrupt his evening with Brenna.


    ??????????? §ã??¦Á¦Ñ???????? g??????¦Í??????©q§ã??£í


    Other than rearranging his schedule for Brenna, he had never allowed another woman to meddle in his professional affairs.


    He extinguished his cigarette in the ashtray with a decisive twist, his voice cool and measured. ¡°Waldo has always been trouble¡ªyou knew that. I cautioned you when you married him, didn¡¯t I? You told me you knew it was a marriage of business, not love. So why the shock now? If you¡¯re unhappy, file for divorce. You¡¯re wee to return to work at the Mitchell Group.


    ¡°As for your child, you¡¯ve got the means to raise them, and I¡¯ll lend a hand if you need it.¡±


    Gracie¡¯s eyes gleamed with joy¡ªthis was precisely what she had been angling for. She had long since abandoned any feelings for Waldo; what she needed was¡­


    Ethan¡¯s backing to secure a divorce without sacrificing her shares in the Chapman Group.


    ¡°You¡¯ll really help me?¡± she asked, her voice bright with anticipation. ¡°Once I¡¯m free of Waldo, I¡¯lle back to work in yourpany. And don¡¯t worry, Ethan, Brenna¡ªI would never dream ofing between you two.¡±


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 Chapter 1540

    ?Chapter 1540:


    Brenna saw through the act in an instant. Gracie¡¯s tearful gratitude masked a calcting mind. After her time in Vand, Gracie had grown more cunning, always finding ways to linger in Ethan¡¯s orbit¡ªa habit Brenna found increasingly irksome.


    ¡°That is not a bad n,¡± Brenna said smoothly, ¡°but with your talents, why not start your ownpany? Being your own boss beats answering to someone else any day.¡±


    Gracie quickly shook her head, her eyes brimming with tears once more.


    Brenna marveled at how effortlessly Gracie could turn on the waterworks.


    ¡°I¡¯m finished withunching ventures,¡± Gracie said, her voice trembling. ¡°It¡¯s utterly draining and far too risky. All I want now is for Ethan to help me sell my Chapman Group shares at a tidy profit. Thepany¡¯s thriving; those shares are worth a fortune.¡±


    Her shrewd gaze slid toward Brenna. ¡°Miss Harper, you ought to consider investing in the Chapman Group. You will make a lot of money by doing so.¡±


    Brenna offered a faint, bemused smile, genuinely curious about Gracie¡¯s motives for nudging her to invest in the Chapman Group.


    Still, the suggestion wasn¡¯t without merit¡ªthe Chapman Group did hold promising potential.


    ¡°I¡¯ll give it some thought,¡± Brenna replied with measured calm.


    Gracie¡¯s face lit up; she was convinced that Brenna had taken the bait. Everyone praised Brenna¡¯s keen intellect, but to Gracie, she seemed delightfully naive.


    Turning to Ethan with fervent sincerity, Gracie dered, ¡°This is wonderful, Ethan. I¡¯ll file for divorce from Waldo when I get back. You have to help me this time. If only I had heeded your advice back then, I wouldn¡¯t be drowning in regret now.¡±


    Once Gracie left, Ethan¡¯s phone buzzed. He answered in a gentle tone. ¡°Mom, we¡¯ll be there in thirty minutes.¡±


    ??¦Á???????? ?h¦Á¦Ñ???????? g??l????v??????£®?????


    On the other end, Elsa¡¯s voice burst out, urgent and brimming with frustration. ¡°Good, hurry up. I need to talk to you both. I¡¯m furious. Rosanna is just too much. I¡¯m helping her with her child, and she still dares toin about me. Can you believe that? It¡¯s outrageous¡­¡±


    A dull ache spread through Ethan¡¯s temples as he listened. Family quarrels wore him down, and Elsa had been pulling him into them more and more. This time, though, he couldn¡¯t avoid her and had agreed to stop by.


    He let her vent about Kenny and Rosanna, waiting for the right pause before answering simply, ¡°I hear you.¡± Then, he hung up.


    From across the room, Brenna caught the faint frown on Ethan¡¯s face. With a yful smile, she teased, ¡°Lucky for us, your mom dotes on her granddaughter and spends her time at your brother¡¯s ce. Otherwise, once we¡¯re married, she¡¯d probably be camped out at our ce every other day.¡±


    .


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 Chapter 1541

    ?Chapter 1541:


    Ethan gave a small nod, and the two of them stepped out. Neville was waiting at the door with Ethan¡¯s coat, slipping it over Ethan¡¯s shoulders the moment he appeared.


    Inside the elevator, Ethan said to Brenna, ¡°My brother¡¯s ce has been a battlefieldtely. My mother and Rosanna keep shing over how to raise the child, and Kenny¡¯s caught right in the crossfire. It¡¯s been hard on him.¡±


    His gaze softened as itnded on Brenna. ¡°When we¡¯re married, let¡¯s wait a few years before having kids. Watching my mom, I realize that if we had a baby, she¡¯d insist on taking care of them herself. And if she started arguing with you day after day, we¡¯d lose our peacepletely.¡±


    Brenna bobbed her head in agreement. ¡°I¡¯m with you on that. Besides, mypany¡¯s swamped right now. I¡¯m about to expand the team and push the animation studio to the top of the industry.¡±


    The shared understanding brought a lightness to their mood.


    Ethan smiled broadly. ¡°I heard you promoted Joe and Tommy to directors and a few others to managers?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right,¡± Brenna replied. ¡°The business is growing so quickly that we need more middle management in ce.¡±


    Pride lit Ethan¡¯s face. ¡°You really are a business genius. You¡¯ve scaled up in no time. Two floors already feel cramped. If you need more space, I can clear a couple of extra levels for you.¡±


    Brenna shook her head.


    Brenna shook her head. ¡°No need. My new office building will be ready in a few months, and I¡¯ll move the new hires over there.¡±


    They reached Kenny¡¯s home soon.


    Even from the doorstep, they could hear raised voices and the sharp cries of a baby.


    ??????????? §ã???????????? g?????????????[£®]??????


    Ethan pressed the doorbell. Kenny opened the door, his brow drawn tight in frustration. ¡°Finally. You need to talk to Mom. If it¡¯s too much, she doesn¡¯t have to help us take care of our kid anymore. We can¡¯t keep living like this¡ªshe¡¯s got to have her way with every little thing. Now I understand why Dad was so determined to divorce her.¡±


    Elsa stormed over, cheeks flushed with anger. ¡°Ethan, you came at the right time. Get in here and tell me who¡¯s wrong. I¡¯m looking after their child, and they use me of meddling. I¡¯m doing what¡¯s best for them, yet they want me gone!¡±


    Brenna walked into the living room, offering polite greetings as she set a bundle of gifts down on the coffee table. On the sofa, Rosanna held the baby close, rocking her gently, though her tense expression betrayed her distress.


    ¡°Rosanna, it¡¯s only been a few months, and look how much she¡¯s grown. She¡¯s adorable.¡± Brenna settled beside Rosanna, her eyes on the plump, healthy baby who was crying at the top of her lungs.


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1542

    ?Chapter 1542:


    Elsa walked over, her words spilling out in frustration to Brenna and Ethan. ¡°She¡¯s just over three months old¡ªjust past a hundred days! And already they¡¯re feeding her egg yolks? How could a baby that young digest that? The form has every nutrient she needs. But no, they insist on solids. What if her stomach can¡¯t take it? She¡¯ll be the one to suffer! Young people don¡¯t know a thing. They listen to some nonsense ande back telling me I¡¯m the one doing it all wrong. It¡¯s maddening.¡±


    The baby¡¯s wails rose higher, filling the room.


    Rosanna squared her shoulders, refusing to yield. ¡°She¡¯s about four months old now. This is when solids are supposed to start.¡±


    Neither woman gave ground.


    Atst, Brenna stepped in, catching hold of both their arms to stop them. ¡°Enough! You¡¯re scaring the baby.¡±


    Rosanna and Elsa mped their mouths shut at the same moment.


    Brenna had no desire to be pulled into their drama, yet she spoke up anyway. ¡°Enough already. If you¡¯re unsure about solids, let a doctor decide. There¡¯s a clinic nearby¡ªgo together tomorrow and follow whatever the doctor rmends.¡±


    Rosanna shot Elsa a pointed re, her frustration in.


    She turned toward Brenna, her voice strained. ¡°I did ask the doctor at the clinic about this, and I even researched it online before giving Emmie solids. But Elsa refuses to believe me and keeps picking fights with me. I¡¯m sick of it.¡±


    Elsa caught every word and stormed over, her voice rising. ¡°Did you hear that? Right to my face, and in front of you both, sheins about me. The arrogance! I regret ever letting my son marry her.¡±


    Rosanna had never been the type to yield. Her home was her domain, and her convictions stood firm. ¡°You never wanted me to marry Kenny from the start,¡± she shot back. ¡°We love each other, yet you still tried to split us up. We¡¯ve got our own n for raising our child, but you tried to meddle. I didn¡¯t even ask for your help! Your thinking is outdated, and all you ever do is lecture about how you raised Kenny. I¡¯m tired of it!¡±


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    Brenna couldn¡¯t help but note Rosanna¡¯s bluntness¡ªsharper even than her own at times. No wonder Elsa was seething.


    As expected, Elsa¡¯s body shook with fury. ¡°Kenny, do you hear this? This is the wife you chose¡ªconstantly fighting me, opposing every word I say! Tell her to apologize, or I¡¯m done taking care of your child for you.¡±


    Kenny pinched the bridge of his nose, irritation written all over his face. ¡°Mom, maybe you should head home. We¡¯ve already decided to hire someone to help with Emmie, and Rosanna¡¯s mom offered to step in, too. You¡¯ve been taking care of the child nonstop; you must be tired. Take a break. When Rosanna¡¯s mom needs rest, you can step back in.¡±


    The moment Kenny sided with Rosanna, Elsa¡¯s fury spiked. Her voice rose several pitches higher. ¡°So now you¡¯re kicking me out as well, huh?¡±


    .


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 Chapter 1543

    ?Chapter 1543:


    She darted a look at Ethan, hoping he would step in and scold Kenny and Rosanna. But he sat there, absorbed in his phone, thumbs flying across the screen.


    From his demeanor, it was obvious he had no intention of getting involved.


    Brenna also remained silent, her face calm and detached, as if the whole conflict had nothing to do with her.


    Elsa let out a sharp huff. ¡°Fine! If you all think I¡¯m a burden, I¡¯ll leave right now! Don¡¯te begging me to return in the future. I¡¯ll pack my things this instant!¡±


    With that, she stormed off to her bedroom.


    Kenny exhaled hard and turned to his brother. ¡°Ethan, I can¡¯t take it anymore. Can you let Mom stay at your ce for a while? Or send her back to her own ce?¡±


    Anywhere but here would do.


    Sliding his phone into his pocket, Ethan gave Kenny a sympathetic nce. ¡°Sure, I¡¯ll drive her back.¡±


    The truth was, Ethan didn¡¯t want Elsa staying at his ce, either. With his wedding to Brenna just around the corner, Elsa hovering nearby would only mean endless advice and interference he hadn¡¯t asked for.


    A few minutester, Elsa reappeared, suitcase in tow. She paused in the living room, clearly waiting for Kenny to apologize or plead with her to stay. But Kenny didn¡¯t even look up at first¡ªhe was too busy tickling Emmie,ughing as the baby squealed.


    Finally, catching sight of Elsa from the corner of his eye, he turned to her and said evenly, ¡°Rest for a while, alright? We¡¯ve got things under control here.¡±


    Elsa let out a furious huff and said to Ethan, ¡°Let¡¯s go. I¡¯ll stay at your ce. I¡¯m never setting foot back here again.¡±


    Kenny passed Emmie carefully into Rosanna¡¯s arms, then followed Elsa downstairs to see her off.


    On the way, Elsa muttered bitterly under her breath, calling Kenny ungrateful, using him of forgetting his own mother now that he was married.


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    Kenny acted as though he hadn¡¯t heard a word, smiling cheerfully as he waved her off.


    The sight of her son¡¯s easy, unbothered demeanor only stoked Elsa¡¯s anger


    Elsa spent most of the rideining about her eldest son and his wife, her voice a steady stream of grievances that set Ethan and Brenna on edge.


    After a while, Elsa sensed something off. ¡°Wait¡ªthis isn¡¯t the way to your ce! Ethan, I want to go to your house. You¡¯re getting married soon; I should be there helping you with the ns. Neville, take me to my son¡¯s home.¡±


    Neville just gave her a casual smile. ¡°Mrs. Mitchell, I only take my orders from your son.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s mood soured even more. She turned on Ethan, her frustration ring. ¡°Did you hear me? I said I want to go to your house! Even if you ditch me today, I¡¯ll go to your ce on my own tomorrow!¡±


    .


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 Chapter 1544

    ?Chapter 1544:


    The mask slipped from Ethan¡¯s face, his patience finally spent. He sat up straight and looked her dead in the eyes. ¡°If you¡¯re bored, why not find a job that keeps you busy? Go teach at Shirie University. But stay out of my business.¡±


    Elsa, red with anger, banged her fist against the back of the seat. ¡°You¡¯re all shutting me out! Stop the car! I¡¯m not riding with you another second!¡±


    But Neville kept his eyes on the road, answering only to Ethan. Elsa¡¯s outburst got her nowhere. Her anger only mounted as the car rolled into her own neighborhood, stopping outside her house.


    She had no choice but to get out of the car. She stormed inside, greeted by a spotless home and a housekeeper who weed her with slippers and a fresh ss of water.


    Ethan stepped inside, turned to her, and spoke inly. ¡°Brenna and I have decided on a destination wedding. We¡¯re not doing the big ceremony.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s anger spiked. ¡°How could you do that? Do you even understand the weight of your status? How can you not have a proper ceremony for your wedding? The Harper family holds great standing, and with your father, Brenna¡¯s parents, and myself all carrying influence in Shirie, your wedding ought to surpass every other celebration. How could you think of reducing it to nothing more than a trip? I will never ept that.¡±


    Unmoved, Ethan crossed his legs and took a seat with Brenna, his calm presence making it clear he wouldn¡¯t be swayed.


    ¡°I¡¯m not here to ask for your approval. This is just a heads-up¡ªour wedding, our rules. We¡¯re not looking for anyone else¡¯s input. And for the record, Brenna¡¯s parents have already agreed to that.¡±


    Elsa was beside herself, frustration bubbling over with every word.


    ¡°You¡¯re my son. Of course I get a say in your life!¡± she snapped, her eyes darting to Brenna. ¡°Was this your idea?¡±


    Brenna met her re with steady resolve. ¡°Yes. I suggested it, and Ethan agreed.¡±


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    Elsa¡¯s tone hardened. ¡°No. If you¡¯re both set on doing a destination wedding, then forget about getting married at all. Wait until you¡¯re willing to have a proper celebration. I will not agree to it!¡±


    Ethan¡¯s stare went cold. ¡°We¡¯ve said all there is to say. If you¡¯re finished, we¡¯re heading out.¡±


    He took Brenna¡¯s hand and led her toward the door, not once pausing for Elsa¡¯s protests.


    Elsa threw herself in their way. ¡°Don¡¯t walk away from me! Did you even hear what I just said?¡±


    ¡°You really don¡¯t need to worry about our affairs anymore.¡± Ethan looked her in the eyes, calm and immovable.


    Elsa stayed put, shaking her head in disbelief as she watched her son leave, arm in arm with the woman she couldn¡¯t stand.


    .


    .


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 Chapter 1545

    ?Chapter 1545:


    Back in the car, Brenna leaned in and said quietly, ¡°Something tells me your mom isn¡¯t letting this go.¡±


    ¡°No matter what she does, I¡¯m not changing my mind,¡± Ethan said. He had never listened to her since he was a child.


    Brenna managed a small, knowing smile. ¡°Maybe your mom just needs something to do. Or maybe we can help her find something worthwhile to do.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s eyes softened as a thought urred. ¡°I¡¯ve seen some news about kids in remote areas needing winter coats and school supplies. Their schools are falling apart. When my mom was younger, she used to love helping out at ces like that. What if we organize a charity event about that¡­¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s perfect. It¡¯ll give her something meaningful to do¡ªand maybe distract her from us for a while,¡± Brenna said, hoping Elsa would not get angry so often. After all, getting angry all the time was bad for her health


    Ethan¡¯s eyes softened as he looked at Brenna. ¡°We¡¯ve been running around all day without eating. Let¡¯s go have a meal. What would you like to eat?¡±


    Brenna tapped her chin in thought. ¡°It¡¯s been forever since I¡¯ve had a proper stew. Let¡¯s go find some.¡±


    Ethan considered for a moment before replying, ¡°When I was out with Mr. Bates the other day, we stopped at a ce called Hearth & Ladle. Their stew was incredible. How about we head there?¡±


    Brenna agreed with a bright nod, and soon, the two of them were making their way to the restaurant.


    The weekend crowd filled the restaurant with noise and warmth, every table brimming with customers.


    Fortunately, Ethan¡¯s connection with the owner paid off, and they were led straight to an open table. Before Brenna could even settle into her seat, her eyes caught on a pair of familiar faces at the next table¡ªSylvie and Vivian.


    Sylvie was quick to greet Brenna and Ethan. ¡°Ms. Harper, Mr. Mitchell! What a pleasant surprise. You¡¯re dining here too? Why don¡¯t you join us?¡±


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    Ethan gave aposed nod, choosing not to speak. He pulled out a chair, sat down, and ordered beef stew from the waiter without dy.


    Brenna, meanwhile, turned toward the two women and began chatting with them.


    Sylvie said to Vivian, ¡°From now on, you should work for Ms. Harper as well. She¡¯s already opened a gship store in Plomond, and I handle sales there. I¡¯ve climbed to the top in just a short time, earning more than fifty thousand a month.¡±


    Vivian¡¯s heart still held a trace of bitterness toward Brenna. But hearing her friend speak so highly of Brenna, she reminded herself that Brenna was, in truth, far more trustworthy than Rosie had ever been.


    Vivian reached across the table and shook Brenna¡¯s hand with practiced politeness. ¡°Ms. Harper, if you ever have a free moment, I¡¯d love the chance to treat you to a meal.¡±


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1546

    ?Chapter 1546:


    The Morrison family¡¯s troubles weighed heavily on her. For more than half a year, theirpany had been sinking. Orders kept getting canceled, suppliers disappeared with deposits, and the situation grew bleaker with every passing day.


    Vivian was worried. She had promised her father and brother that she would find a solution.


    If she could establish even the smallest connection with Brenna, it might give her the lifeline her family so desperately needed.


    Brenna, however, didn¡¯t answer immediately. Instead, she tilted her head slightly and asked, ¡°So, you¡¯re not working at the moment?¡±


    She knew very well the kind of life Vivian had led: the pampered daughter of privilege who spent her days on food, drinks, and entertainment, never once having to worry about work while her family¡¯s wealth cushioned everything.


    As her eyes lingered on Vivian, she caught details most would overlook. The woman¡¯s clothes weren¡¯t from thetest season, but from an older collection. It was subtle, but clear proof¡ªthe Morrison family¡¯s financial situation was bad.


    Vivian, meanwhile, felt the weight of humiliation pressing down on her. Beside her, Sylvie had already carved out sess, rising to the top through hard work and persistence. And here she was, clinging to a copsing family business, offering nothing of value. The realization stung.


    ¡°No, I¡¯m not working. I wanted to help with thepany, but I don¡¯t have the skills. I¡¯d only be a burden. The truth is¡­ my family depended heavily on Rosie. She brought us most of our deals before. After she passed away, every client walked away too. Now we¡¯re standing on the edge of bankruptcy.¡±


    That admission left her shaken, but also desperate. This was it¡ªthe one chance fate had offered her. If she didn¡¯t reach out to Brenna now, there might never be another opportunity.


    Vivian clenched her hands under the table and made up her mind. Even if it meant humbling herself, even if it meant begging, she would try her best to get Brenna¡¯s help.


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    She continued, ¡°Ms. Harper, I know yourpany is involved in many ventures, even automobile manufacturing. That field depends on countless parts suppliers. My family specializes in auto parts. Our technology is solid, and our production line is still advanced despite our setbacks. If you could connect us to opportunities, we¡¯d be more than willing to give you amission.¡±


    Brenna said nothing. Her expression remained unreadable, her silence making it clear she felt no obligation to help the Morrisons. Vivian had never been close to her, after all.


    The silence stretched, heavy and ufortable, until Vivian¡¯s heart sank. She had waited and waited, but no response came. Atst, her voice faltered as she said,


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for pressing you like this. I know I sided with Rosie before and wronged you. You¡¯re justified in not liking me and not wanting to help me.¡±


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 Chapter 1547

    ?Chapter 1547:


    Sylvie opened her mouth, wanting to plead on Vivian¡¯s behalf, but quickly closed it again. From her past dealings with Brenna, she knew well enough that once Brenna made a decision, it was final. No amount of persuasion could move her.


    Besides, Vivian¡¯s past mistakes still lingered¡ªthings she had done that had wounded Brenna deeply.


    ¡°We¡¯ll talk about this another time,¡± Brenna said coolly, turning her full attention to Ethan. She offered Vivian nothing more.


    Leaning closer, Sylvie whispered with encouragement to Vivian, ¡°She didn¡¯t outright refuse you. You can ask your father to reach out to her himself. Maybe he can convince her to help your family.¡±


    Vivian¡¯s eyes lit up with sudden hope. ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll do that.¡± She cast another nce at Brenna. Yes,pared to Rosie, Brenna truly seemed more reasonable andpassionate


    Brenna had just taken her seat when Ethan gave a subtle nod toward a nearby table.


    ¡°Look.¡± His expression was calm.


    She followed his gaze and saw Sandraughing with Jordy. Her smile was unguarded, and Jordy, attentive as ever, was serving her food.


    They looked¡­ close.


    ¡°Mr. Barton, thank you for all your guidancetely. You¡¯ve really helped me deepen my understanding of investment strategies,¡± Sandra said, lifting her ss to him.


    Jordy grinned. ¡°Hold on, mind if I share this on Instagram?¡±


    Sandra lowered her eyes, thinking it through. They were just friends. They had been having lunch and dinner almost daily while he helped her study investments, and it wasn¡¯t inappropriate for Jordy to post some photos.


    The problem was Jordy being Brenna¡¯s ex. Sandra believed posting photos of Jordy and her together could be awkward. Still, Jordy¡¯s influence in Shirie was real. A post could help her step into the right circles.


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    Sensing her pause, Jordy backpedaled, saying, ¡°Forget it. You¡¯re not my girlfriend. I don¡¯t want to put you in a spot. I¡¯m just in a good mood¡ªsorry if that was too much.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± Sandra said quickly. ¡°You can do it. After all you¡¯ve done for me, this is nothing.¡±


    ¡°I think we¡¯re good friends now.¡± Jordyughed. ¡°Next time, I¡¯ll introduce you to my other friends. We can all hang out.¡±


    They leaned in, smiling for the camera.


    .


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 Chapter 1548

    Chapter 1548:


    Jordy uploaded the photo with a simple caption: ¡°Enjoyed a wonderful meal with my friend.¡±


    Sandra liked the post.


    For Jordy, a photo with a woman wasn¡¯t casual¡ªit was a small test, a way to gauge whether she might be open to more and a quiet signal to his friends that he was pursuing Sandra.


    But Sandra didn¡¯t read it that way.


    Across the room, Sylvie had already noticed Jordy. She remembered the nights they¡¯d spent together. Seeing himughing with another woman stung.


    ¡°He¡¯s still a jerk,¡± she muttered to Vivian, unable to contain her annoyance. ¡°Which rich girl is he trying to impress this time?¡±


    Vivian looked over and recognized them. ¡°You don¡¯t know her? That¡¯s the Harpers¡¯ illegitimate daughter¡ªBrenna¡¯s half-sister. She has only just rejoined the family. I bet he tried Brenna first, and when that failed, he pivoted to the other Harper girl. What a creep. Going after your ex¡¯s sister? Brenna would despise him.¡±


    Worked up on Sylvie¡¯s behalf, she added, ¡°He even nced here just now on purpose. He knows how much you loved him before and that you¡¯re clearly not over him.¡±


    Before Sylvie could stop her, Vivian shot to her feet and headed for Jordy.


    Sylvie moved to intervene, but it was already toote. Deep down, she still harbored feelings for Jordy, and even after her release from prison, she had tried more than once to win him back.


    But Jordy had been merciless, proiming that he now belonged to Shirie¡¯s elite and that a woman with a criminal record was beneath him.


    Sylvie hurried after Vivian, trying to pull her back.


    She knew the Higgins family had fallen hard. If Jordy wanted, he could crush what remained of them.


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    Vivian rounded on Jordy. ¡°You jerk! Sylvie loved you with everything she had, and you dumped her the moment her family lost everything. Now you¡¯re after the Harper girl? You¡¯re pathetic. You¡¯ll never change.¡±


    For the sake of her family, Sylvie had no choice but to step in and stop Vivian from causing a scene.


    Sylvie tried to pull Vivian away, but Vivian dug in her heels with defiance.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go back,¡± Sylvie said to Vivian, then faced Jordy with an apology. ¡°Sorry, my friend has had a bit to drink.¡±


    Sandra watched, curious. Vivian¡¯s bearing and clothes suggested she came from a rich family, but Sandra couldn¡¯t ce her.


    Jordy¡¯s temper spiked. ¡°Vivian, watch your mouth. Rtionships are mutual. I don¡¯t love her anymore¡ªyou can¡¯t force it. And Miss Harper and I are just friends.¡±


    .


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    .<hr>


    Message from Noah: New chapters a bit early this time dear readers, I hope you like them. God loves you, and I wish you all the best. ( ? ? ¨C ) ?


    .

 Chapter 1549

    ?Chapter 1549:


    Vivian¡¯s sneer dripped with disdain. ¡°Just friends? Please, I¡¯d bet myst dor she¡¯ll be your girlfriend in no time.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s face flushed with indignation, her voice sharp as she shot back, ¡°Miss, Mr. Barton and I are only friends. He¡¯s my sister¡¯s ex, and I¡¯d never date him. You should apologize for what you just said.¡±


    Her eyes locked onto Vivian¡¯s, unyielding and fierce.


    Jordy seethed, irritation ring at Vivian¡¯s brazen exposure of his carefully veiled intentions.


    He had been patiently working to win Sandra over, certain a little more time would sway her.


    But Vivian¡¯s words had torched his ns.


    He wouldn¡¯t let her get away with it.


    The Morrison family was finished. Crushing them was effortless for him.


    Vivian, unfazed, refused to back down. ¡°Miss Harper, I may have offended you, but it¡¯s for your own good. You barely know Jordy, so it¡¯s no surprise you¡¯re blind to his true nature. He¡¯s a master at sweet-talking women, but he doesn¡¯t care about anyone. Money and power¡ªthat¡¯s what he loves. He¡¯ll charm anyone to get them, and it¡¯s disgusting.¡±


    Jordy¡¯s temper snapped. His hand flew out, striking Vivian¡¯s cheek with a sharp p. ¡°You¡¯ve crossed the line, Vivian!¡±


    Vivian retaliated with a fierce p of her own. ¡°I¡¯m just trying to save another woman from falling for your lies!¡±


    Sandra, who had trusted Jordy¡¯s investment advice, feltpelled to defend him. She rose swiftly, her voice steady. ¡°Miss, we¡¯re not together. We¡¯re just friends. If your friend is Jordy¡¯s ex, tell her to move on. They¡¯re done, and he¡¯s not going back to her.¡±


    The restaurant manager hurried over. ¡°Is everything all right here?¡± Heads turned, eyes from every corner of the restaurant fixed on themotion.


    Sylvie, mortified, grabbed Vivian¡¯s arm and pulled her away, casting an apologetic nce at Sandra. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry about this.¡±


    Once seated again, Jordy shook his head. ¡°She¡¯s crazy. Don¡¯t mind them, Sandra. They¡¯re both delusional; just ignore them.¡±


    L?t??¦Ó ch?¦Ñ¦Ó?rs ¦Én g??l?ov?l??.??§à??


    Sandra nodded in agreement.


    Still seething over Vivian¡¯s interference, Jordy whipped out his phone and fired off a message to his team, ordering them to make the Morrison Group pay for crossing him.


    Nearby, Brenna and Ethan had witnessed the entire scene, and Ethan¡¯s disgust for Jordy deepened.


    Jordy¡¯s relentless pursuit of Sandra stirred painful memories of his past engagement to Brenna. The man was insufferable.


    Sensing Jordy¡¯s next move would target the Morrisons, Ethan texted Henley, urging him to contact the Morrison family and explore a potential alliance.


    Brenna, however, seemed unfazed. Her mind drifted to Jordy¡¯s earlier pitch about a cybersecurity coboration.


    She turned to Ethan, curiosity in her voice. ¡°Is yourpany looking into cybersecurity? I thought that wasn¡¯t your field.¡±


    .


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 Chapter 1550

    ?Chapter 1550:


    Ethan caught Brenna¡¯s meaning immediately. When Brenna had first considered partnering with Jordy, it had stung him. Was she about to reject Jordy¡¯s offer now?


    He smiled. ¡°We don¡¯t have a cybersecurity arm yet, but I know some of the best in the business¡ªreal heavyweights. Partnering with them would be far more profitable than anything with Jordy. I¡¯ll introduce you to them.¡±


    He had no intention of letting Jordy get anywhere near Brenna.


    Not a chance!


    Brenna¡¯sughter sparkled. She saw right through Ethan.


    ¡°Alright, make it happen,¡± she said, sliding a te of food toward him with a smile.


    Ethan raised an eyebrow. ¡°What¡¯s with the grin?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m smiling because I know you¡¯re jealous,¡± she teased.


    ¡°Of course I¡¯m jealous,¡± he admitted. ¡°I don¡¯t want you near that creep. And for your sister¡¯s investment ns, I¡¯ll make sure my contact gives her a solid deal.¡±


    For Brenna, Ethan was willing to do anything.


    Brenna arrived home just as Jordy pulled up to drop off Sandra.


    Jordy shed Brenna a friendly smile and wasted no time steering the conversation toward his pitch about teaming up on the firewall project.


    ¡°Brenna, when are we going to sit down and talk about partnering on the firewall project?¡± His tone was just a bit too self-assured, clearly enjoying the fact that Ethan couldn¡¯t stand him getting close to Brenna.


    He raised an eyebrow and looked at Brenna. ¡°It¡¯s a sweet deal, you know. What do you think?¡±


    It didn¡¯t take much for Brenna to see right through Jordy¡¯s act. She could also guess what was running through Ethan¡¯s mind.


    Jordy had tried pitching this coboration before, and now here he was, at her doorstep, still pushing. Clearly, he was hoping to provoke Ethan.


    Knowing exactly where she stood, Brenna decided to make it clear who she backed.


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    ¡°Not interested,¡± she replied coolly. ¡°Honestly, you¡¯re not professional enough for this kind of project. Ethan has already set me up with Mr. Loftus from Skyline Tech.¡±


    Jordy¡¯s expression faltered for a moment. He knew Gerardo Loftus well, and Skyline Tech was a giant inwork security, with its user base spread worldwide. Partnering with them was a far bigger deal than anything he could offer. Plus, having ess to their established clients would make selling the firewall a breeze.


    But Jordy didn¡¯t give up. ¡°Come on, Brenna. You really think Mr. Loftus is going to want to partner with you? Compared to what Skyline Tech¡¯s offering is, yours still has a ways to go. Honestly, I¡¯m your best shot.¡±


    Brenna let out a sharpugh. ¡°Funny, I have plenty of faith in my product. If it weren¡¯t up to standard, the government¡¯s security agency wouldn¡¯t have chosen my firewall, don¡¯t you think?¡±


    She shot Jordy a sly grin, making it clear she knew exactly what game he was ying, and that he was sorely mistaken if he thought she was easy to outsmart.


    .


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 Chapter 1551

    ?Chapter 1551:


    Running out of options, Jordy quickly switched tactics. ¡°Come on, don¡¯t be like that. You said you would partner with me before. It¡¯s only been a few days, and you¡¯ve already changed your mind?¡±


    Sandra, still standing nearby, looked at Brenna with surprise. ¡°I was actually thinking about putting some money in.


    ¡°I know Skyline Tech by reputation. They¡¯re massive. Would they even let me in as an investor?¡±


    Jordy tried to sway Brenna. ¡°See? Sandra¡¯s just getting her feet wet in investing and hoping for a solid return. If you go with Skyline Tech, she might get left out of the deal.¡±


    But it was obvious Sandra was more interested in investing, regardless of which partner Brenna chose.


    Jordy felt hisst bit of hope slipping away, sensing he didn¡¯t stand a chance to pursue Sandra now.


    He looked over at Sandra and urged, ¡°Help me out here; convince Brenna to go with my offer. I¡¯ll give her a fifty-fifty split. There¡¯s no way Skyline Tech will give her that. They¡¯ll just throw her a tinymission per paying customer. You tell me, does that sound better than splitting everything evenly with me?¡±


    Sandra looked Brenna¡¯s way but stayed silent.


    The realization hit Jordy that Sandra wasn¡¯t nearly as gullible as he¡¯d hoped.


    Unfazed, Brenna handed her car keys to Darrell. ¡°And what if Mr. Loftus offers me a fifty-fifty deal, too?¡±


    Jordy snorted, the sound thick with sarcasm. ¡°No chance. Only I¡¯m willing to go that high.¡±


    Brenna just shook her head, a smirk ying on her lips. ¡°Jordy, I am not dumb. Don¡¯t think you can trick me.¡±


    Without another word, she strode into the house,pletely disregarding Jordy¡¯s desperate shouts behind her.


    Sandra followed her.


    Stories live now on g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s.c¦Ïm


    Jordy didn¡¯t give up, still yelling, ¡°Sandra, talk some sense into her! Sixty-forty split, even seventy-thirty if that¡¯s what it takes!¡±


    Sandra kept her tone neutral. ¡°Honestly, she¡¯s been at this way longer than I have. I doubt she¡¯d take my advice.¡±


    After Sandra got inside, her eyes widened at the sight before her. The living room was overflowing with evening gowns, each one more dazzling than thest, glittering with gemstones and radiating elegance in every cut and color.


    Her designer¡¯s eye immediately appraised each dress as being worth a small fortune.


    ¡°Why are there so many dresses here?¡± Sandra asked, surprised to notice they were all her size. Still, she didn¡¯t think these were for her.


    Julia approached, her voice respectful. ¡°Ms. Harper, these are for you. Mrs. Harper asked me to set them out in your room so you could try them on and see which fits you best.¡±


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 Chapter 1552

    ?Chapter 1552:


    Brenna grinned and said to Sandra, ¡°Remember that we promised to throw you a wee banquet? We decided to hold the banquet on Christmas Day.¡±


    Sandra stood frozen, caughtpletely off guard. She had always known the Harper family would never go out of their way to wee her¡ªthey considered her a blemish on their perfect image. The fact that she hadn¡¯t been pushed out was already a miracle. She had never let herself hope for anything different. Her n was always to earn her own ce among the elite, without anyone¡¯s help.


    Now, this unexpected kindness from the Harper family left her stunned and a little unsure how to feel.


    Was she moved? Overjoyed? Simply overwhelmed?


    She honestly didn¡¯t know.


    ¡°Thank you, everyone,¡± Sandra said after a while, her gratitude sincere as she bowed.


    At that moment, Giselle walked in, fresh from learning that Brenna was back. She had intended to ask about Brenna¡¯s mother-inw¡ªwhether she had treated Brenna better this time.


    Instead, she found herself watching Sandra¡¯s bow, a faint flicker of disdain passing across her face before she masked it with polite indifference. Approaching with her usual coolposure, she said, ¡°Sandra, you¡¯re part of the family now. If you want anything special at the wee party, just let Brenna or Rosanna know. They¡¯re handling all the arrangements.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Giselle.¡± For a moment, Sandra saw her in a different light. Maybe Giselle genuinely wanted to help her, but pride kept her distant.


    Realizing Giselle would never bridge that gap herself, Sandra chose to meet her halfway. ¡°Really, I can¡¯t thank you enough,¡± she continued.


    Knowing she had little to offer¡ªno status, no wealth¡ªSandra could only show her appreciation with another respectful bow.


    Giselle regarded Sandra¡¯s grateful bow with a detached air. If only Sandra knew that the Harper family had agreed to this wee party out of sheer obligation, her gratitude might disappear on the spot.


    But Sandra would never find out about that.


    Fresh chapters are live at g¦Á?¦Ç¦Òv???s


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing. Just do your part at the banquet,¡± Giselle said, her voice cool. ¡°Let Rosanna and Brenna show you the ropes with the guests. Make sure you don¡¯t embarrass yourself.¡±


    ¡°Absolutely, I understand,¡± Sandra responded, her joy unmistakable, a wide smile lighting up her face.


    It felt almost unreal¡ªthe Harper family would finally acknowledge her in public.


    She would gain entry to Shire¡¯s most elite circles soon. Surely, more than a few eligible bachelors would take notice of her.


    Just imagining the possibilities sent a rush of excitement through her.


    Before leaving, Giselle shot Brenna a meaningful look and headed up the stairs.


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 Chapter 1553

    ?Chapter 1553:


    Brenna turned back to Sandra. ¡°Take your time looking through these. If there¡¯s anything you don¡¯t like, just let me know, and we¡¯ll return it.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s eyes sparkled as she sorted through the gowns, recognizing the quality and care behind every choice.


    With her looks and these exquisite dresses, she was certain she¡¯d be the highlight of the entire party.


    ¡°They¡¯re all gorgeous! Brenna, this means so much to me. Thank you, really.¡±


    Brenna smiled and spent a little longer chatting before shifting her attention to Julia. ¡°Bring a couple of people to help get things ready. Did you remember to pick out essories and shoes to match the dresses?¡±


    Julia answered without missing a beat. ¡°Every dresses with two full sets of essories, and all the shoes are ready as well.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s mind spun at the mention of essories.


    Did that mean jewelry?


    Real, expensive jewelry?


    All of this had to be worth well over a hundred million.


    She couldn¡¯t believe how casually the wealthy spent their money. Wasn¡¯t a wee party fine with just a couple of dresses?


    Clearly, she didn¡¯t understand the world of the rich, and she wasn¡¯t about to ask questions that would reveal her inexperience. Thest thing she wanted was to look naive in front of the others.


    Julia quickly directed the staff to deliver everything upstairs.


    When Sandra stepped back into her room, she was greeted by a dazzling sight. Jewelry boxes were stacked on the table, and the floor was lined with dozens of¡­


    Designer shoes¡ªsome from thetest collections, others from hard-to-find niche brands¡ªlined the floor.


    Each pair was more beautiful than thest.


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    And they all belonged to her now.


    Even more surprising was the thoughtful detail¡ªlingerie sets perfectly matched to each gown.


    Wealthy people really thought of everything.


    Sandra was starting to fall in love with this lifestyle. From this moment on, she vowed to carve out her own ce among the elite.


    Lost in thought, she realized Jordy barely registered on her radar now. She was d she hadn¡¯t responded to his flirting these past few days.


    Getting tangled up with him would have only made things awkward when it came time to mingle with the real power yers¡ªthe wealthy heirs she¡¯d soon be meeting.


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 Chapter 1554

    ?Chapter 1554:


    Slipping into one of the designer gowns, Sandra turned toward the mirror.


    The reflection staring back at her was breathtaking.


    For the first time, she wondered if she might actually outshine Brenna.


    With Christmas nearing, a bitter chill gripped Shire. The temperature had plunged, and sleetshed the streets, infusing the air with a damp, bone-piercing cold.


    Keira huddled on her sofa, still bundled in her down jacket, her remaining hand gripping a hand warmer.


    Boredom weighed on her as she watched TV alone. A scene of card yers flickered across the screen, stirring memories of her old gambling circle.


    She had lost her left hand to gambling and had vowed never to touch a card again.


    So, even though she missed her old gambling buddies, she hadn¡¯t gone looking for them these past few days.


    Just then, the doorbell chimed, pulling her from her thoughts. The maid emerged from the kitchen to answer it.


    A woman in her sixties stood at the door.


    Not spotting Keira, she asked, ¡°This is Keira¡¯s ce, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    The maid smiled. ¡°Yes, it is. I¡¯m the maid here.¡±


    She didn¡¯t let the woman in, not sure about her intentions. ¡°Keira, you have a visitor.¡±


    Keira walked over and broke into a grin. ¡°rice! Come in!¡±


    rice Lewis stepped inside, her eyes sweeping over Keira¡¯s home. The furnishings were modest but spotless, the space meticulously kept. There was a maid here, too¡ªKeira seemed to be doing well.


    ¡°Keira, why haven¡¯t you been at the card tables? We¡¯ve missed you,¡± rice said.


    Keira guided her to a seat, signaling the maid to prepare coffee. She then extended her left arm, still swathed in bandages, and sighed. ¡°I¡¯m done with gambling.¡±


    rice¡¯s eyes widened in shock. ¡°Probably for the best. I¡¯ve cut back myself. We were worried about you¡ªno one knew where you lived. It took me ages to track you down. So, what¡¯ve you been up to?¡±


    Keep reading at g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s.c?m


    Keira sighed. ¡°Not much. Morning and evening walks, TV at home. Once my arm has healed, I¡¯m thinking of joining amunity dance ss.¡±


    The maid set down coffee and a te of sliced fruit before retreating to the kitchen.


    rice leaned in, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. ¡°I heard Corinna died in Lumoria. Horrible way to go¡ªtorn apart by a Tibetan Mastiff.¡±


    Keira froze, her eyes widening in disbelief. ¡°Really? Who told you that?¡±


    rice¡¯s expression grew uneasy. ¡°I was out walking and saw a funeral. When I looked closer, it was Corinna¡¯s son there. I asked around, and it¡¯s true. She died gruesomely.¡±


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 Chapter 1555

    ?Chapter 1555:


    Keira¡¯s skepticism lingered, but she nodded slowly. ¡°Maybe it¡¯s true. I went to the casino in Lumoria with her. We split up there¡ªshe went to another room, and I lost my hand. I looked for her afterward but never found her. I always thought she might be dead.¡±


    Memories of Lumoria still sent a shiver through Keira. If not for someone bailing her out, she might have met the same fate as Corinna.


    Though Corinna¡¯s death was brutal, Keira felt Corinna had only herself to me. If not for Corinna, how would she have ended up losing eleven million? If not for Corinna, how would she have lost her left hand? Corinna had iting.


    Keira¡¯s lips curled in a bitter snort. ¡°She got what she deserved. Dragged me to Lumoria, and look at me now. Would I be like this if not for her?¡±


    rice¡¯s gaze flicked to Keira¡¯s missing hand, a flicker of fear in her eyes. The pain must have been unimaginable.


    They talked, and rice understood why Keira felt this way. After a moment, rice said, ¡°I also heard something about your daughter.¡±


    Keira¡¯s curiosity red. ¡°What about her?¡±


    rice didn¡¯t hesitate. ¡°Word is, she¡¯s the Harper family heiress now. Her real father gave her ten million, and the other Harpers chipped in, too.¡±


    Keira¡¯s jaw dropped. ¡°That can¡¯t be right. I asked her multiple times, and she swore they didn¡¯t give her anything. Has she been lying to me?¡±


    rice¡¯s eyes widened in surprise. ¡°You didn¡¯t know? That¡¯s awful. Your daughter¡¯s sitting on a fortune, and she¡¯s keeping it from you. My neighbor¡¯s a maid for a wealthy family¡ªshe heard it from her employer. I had to tell you. You raised her, lost your hand, and now she¡¯s not telling you that she has money? So ungrateful!¡±


    Keira¡¯s trust in rice wavered. Just days ago, Sandra had insisted she hadn¡¯t received a dime from the Harper family, and Keira had believed her wholeheartedly.


    Yet rice¡¯s words sowed a flicker of uncertainty. After a moment of reflection, Keira fixed her gaze on rice and asked with a serious expression, ¡°Are you being honest with me?¡±


    rice nodded with conviction. ¡°Absolutely, it¡¯s the truth! Word is, your daughter¡¯s swimming in money now. I thought you¡¯d be living in a grand estate by this point, so I came to see you. Didn¡¯t expect you¡¯d still be here. Looks like Sandra¡¯s keeping secrets from you.¡±


    Explore more now on g?ln¦Ò¦Í??ls


    Keira had once considered rice trustworthy¡ªcertainly more so than Corinna.


    Now, she wasn¡¯t so sure about that. Rising to her feet, she used her one good hand to usher rice toward the door, her voice cutting. ¡°Get out! You¡¯re not wee here anymore.¡±


    rice blinked, stunned. One moment, they were talking; the next, she was being pushed out. ¡°I came to tell you the news, and this is how you treat me?¡± she said.


    ¡°Out! I don¡¯t need your help, and my family¡¯s business is not your concern. What does it matter to you if Sandra has money or not? Why are you prying?¡± Keira snapped, giving her a final shove.


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 Chapter 1556

    ?Chapter 1556:


    The door then mmed shut with a resounding bang.


    Outside, rice muttered under her breath, bristling with irritation, ¡°What¡¯s your problem? Your daughter gets rich, and suddenly you¡¯re too good for us? Fine! Hope you lose your other hand, too!¡± With a scoff, she stormed off.


    Inside, Keira was already dialing Sandra.


    Sandra was engrossed in herputer, sketching clothing designs inspired by the styles she¡¯d seen at Ellie¡¯s studio.


    Every trend, ssic detail, and precise tailoring technique was etched vividly in her memory.


    The phone rang several times before she answered. ¡°Mom, what¡¯s going on?¡± she asked, her focus still on theputer screen.


    But the next second, Keira¡¯s words stopped her cold.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me your father gave you ten million?¡± Keira demanded, her tone sharp. ¡°Did the rest of the Harpers give you money, too?¡±


    Sandra¡¯s mind spun. Who could have leaked the truth to Keira?


    Forcing a quick reply to avoid suspicion, she said, ¡°Of course not, Mom. If they¡¯d given me money, don¡¯t you think I¡¯d tell you?¡± She racked her brain but couldn¡¯t figure out who might have told her mother about that.


    Only the Harpers and their servants knew the matter.


    And Keira had no connections to them.


    ¡°Really?¡± Keira pressed. ¡°Sandra, are you keeping the matter from me because you think I¡¯ll gamble all your money away?¡±


    Her voice suddenly lit up with a spark of hope. Having a wealthy daughter wasn¡¯t so bad after all¡ªshe wouldn¡¯t have to ask for much. She could steer clear of gambling and just settle for enough to live out her retirement infort.


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing to hide, Mom. The Harpers aren¡¯t that generous,¡± Sandra said. ¡°If I ever get money, I¡¯ll make sure you¡¯re looked after¡ªnew clothes, good food, everything you need. Actually, they¡¯re throwing me a wee party soon. That¡¯s when they¡¯ll officially announce me as part of the family.¡± She shared the news to change the topic.


    The magic happens on g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s??????


    Sandra¡¯s tactic worked; Keira lit up with excitement. She chuckled. ¡°That¡¯s wonderful, Sandra! Should I attend? I¡¯m your mother, after all¡­¡±


    Sandra quickly said, ¡°Don¡¯t even think about it, Mom. You¡¯re not a Harper, so why show up? Do you really think the Harpers will let you attend? I¡¯ll save some of the food for you, alright? And they¡¯ve already given me plenty of dresses, jewelry, and shoes. Once the party¡¯s over, I¡¯ll pass a few pieces along to you.¡±


    ¡°Fine,¡± Keira agreed, satisfied. ¡°The jewelry they gave you must be worth a fortune. Send me some; I¡¯ll wear them out and turn heads. But listen¡ªif they give you money, don¡¯t you dare keep it from me. I¡¯m your mother. I¡¯d never take advantage of you. I could also help you handle those Harpers. I¡¯ve always got your back.¡±


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 Chapter 1557

    ?Chapter 1557:


    They spoke a little longer before Sandra finally ended the call. As the line clicked dead, she muttered under her breath, ¡°Sure, you wouldn¡¯t harm me, but you¡¯ve got no self-control. I know you too well, Mom. That¡¯s why I¡¯m never telling you that I have money.¡±


    After a long day at work, Sandra made her way to Keira¡¯s house.


    On her way, she stopped at the supermarket, gathering fresh groceries and daily necessities. She also brought along the clothes she¡¯d picked out for Keira during her recent shopping spree.


    ¡°Sandra,e in! I¡¯ve whipped up all your favorite dishes tonight,¡± Keira said, her smile widening at the sight of Sandra¡¯s haul.


    A memory flickered in Keira¡¯s mind. She noticed Sandra splurging on luxuries she once would¡¯ve balked at¡ªcrabs, fish, and shrimp, where even a small bag could cost hundreds. Years ago, such extravagance was unimaginable for them.


    Keira¡¯s eyes scanned the food Sandra had brought. Two boxes of lobster, her absolute favorite, caught her attention.


    The fruit was all imported¡ªstrawberries, perfectly in season and exorbitantly priced, with Sandra purchasing over two pounds. Oranges and tangerines, sold for ten dors each, filled entire bags. Keira¡¯s face glowed with delight. Sandra¡¯s visits always made her happy.


    The maid swiftly took the groceries and fruit to the kitchen, then gentlyid the clothes across the living room sofa.


    Sandra leaned closer to Keira, her voice a soft whisper. ¡°This maid¡¯s pretty great, don¡¯t you think?¡±


    Keira¡¯s gaze fixed on the bags draped over the sofa. She pulled out two down jackets, her eyes sparkling. ¡°One of these must¡¯ve cost a few thousand, right?¡±


    Sandra¡¯s grin widened. ¡°Not even close¡ªthirteen thousand each! Brenna took me shopping over the weekend, and I picked these out for you. I tried to pay, but she insisted on covering it. They¡¯re top-quality, Mom. Wear them with confidence.¡±


    Keiraughed. ¡°Oh, I will! Tomorrow, I¡¯ll stroll through the neighborhood and let those judgmental types see. They¡¯ll never afford clothes this fine!¡±


    Sandra smiled and lifted more garments, holding them up for Keira. ¡°Mom, try these on in the bedroom. I got them in your size, but if anything doesn¡¯t fit, I can exchange it.¡±


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    ¡°Alright, I¡¯m on it!¡±


    Keira, practically bouncing with glee, gathered the clothes and shoes, heading toward the bedroom.


    Sandra followed, carrying the rest of the clothes.


    She noticed Keira managing better with her missing left hand, adapting more smoothly than she had just days earlier. The sight eased Sandra¡¯s heart.


    As Keira tried on each piece, her smile never faded. ¡°These high-end clothes are sofortable and warm! Sandra, tell me, is the Harper family slipping you extra money? Are you keeping it from me?¡± Her expression shifted to suspicion, her eyes narrowing.


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 Chapter 1558

    ?Chapter 1558:


    Sandra, who had been lying to Keira since she was a kid, was a pro at it. She didn¡¯t even have to pause to think. ¡°No, the groceries and seafood are from my sry. Living with the Harpers keeps my expenses low, so I can afford to buy them like this.¡±


    Keira wasn¡¯t convinced, her lips pursing in doubt. ¡°I¡¯m not buying it. You are lying to me, right?¡±


    She pressed further. ¡°Come clean. How much money do you really have? You¡¯ve never been one to splurge like this. You must be sitting on a fortune.¡±


    ¡°Honestly, Mom, I don¡¯t have that kind of money. If I did, would I only give you a little spending money?¡± Sandra knew Keira¡¯s tendencies well. Any extra money would likely find its way to the gambling tables.


    She continued, ¡°Are you thinking about gambling again? Did your old gambling friendse looking for you?¡±


    Her voice hardened. ¡°If you go back to gambling, I won¡¯t give you a single cent.¡±


    Keira, seeing Sandra¡¯s sincerity, believed her. She said, ¡°rice stopped by today. She said one of her neighbors works as a maid for a wealthy family and heard the Harpers were giving you money. She asked me about it, and I told her you¡¯d never hide the matter from me¡­¡±


    Sandra replied, ¡°You¡¯re believing rumors now? Mom, are you going to trust me or every piece of gossip that floats your way?¡±


    She finally understood¡ªsomeone had been spreading the news about her getting money from the Harpers.


    Keira stood rooted to the spot, her eyes fixed on her daughter. She believed Sandra had changed.


    Gone was the timid girl of years past. Living with a wealthy family had sharpened her edges, her voice now carrying a bold, authoritative tone.


    Keira swallowed her shock. So be it. With her ability to earn a living gone, she depended on Sandra now. She wouldply with her.


    After all, she had squandered eleven million on gambling. What authority did she have to dictate Sandra¡¯s actions or demand control over her finances?


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    Standing before the mirror, trying on the new clothes, Keira masked her thoughts with a bright smile. ¡°Look at these¡ªhigh-end clothes just feel different. Sweetie, don¡¯t I look absolutely stunning?¡±


    Sandra¡¯s face lit up with joy. ¡°Absolutely, Mom!¡±


    Keira¡¯s spirits lifted. Whether Sandra had money or not didn¡¯t matter now. As long as she had food to eat and clothes to wear, she was content. The rest was Sandra¡¯s business.


    For the first time in weeks, the weight of losing her left hand seemed to ease, and the mother and daughter shared a joyful evening together.


    Over dinner, Keira couldn¡¯t resist probing Sandra about life with the Harpers. Sandra answered with patience, recounting every detail.


    Yet Keira¡¯s curiosity about Sandra¡¯s finances refused to wane. Sandra saw through her mother¡¯s intentions and deftly sidestepped the questions.


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 Chapter 1559

    ?Chapter 1559:


    Finally, exasperated, Keira blurted out, ¡°Why won¡¯t you just tell me how much money you have? I swear I won¡¯t touch a cent. I¡¯m done with gambling.¡±


    Sandra let out a softugh. ¡°I¡¯ll give you a monthly allowance for your needs. As for how much I have, don¡¯t bother asking. I won¡¯t tell you.¡±


    Keira rolled her eyes, muttering, ¡°You¡¯re just scared I¡¯lle after your money!¡±


    Sandra didn¡¯t mince words, her tone sharp. ¡°Exactly. You can¡¯t handle more than two thousand at a time. Any more, and you¡¯ll be at the gambling tables, blowing it all. I know you too well, Mom. That habit¡¯s not going anywhere.¡±


    Keira fell silent, struck by the truth in Sandra¡¯s words.


    Her daughter indeed knew her well.


    The night air was crisp as Sandra made her way back to the Harper estate. Outside the gatedmunity, she noticed people leisurely strolling along the street. Then, she spotted Ethan¡¯s car pulling in.


    When Ethan stepped into his home, warm light spilled from inside, and theforting aroma of a home-cooked meal drifted from the dining room.


    His brow furrowed¡ªhis mother hade uninvited.


    Sure enough, Elsa was bustling in the kitchen. He sighed, resigned. ¡°Mom, what are you doing here?¡±


    Elsa knew her presence wasn¡¯t wee here, but she brushed it off. She was bored to death at home. The housekeeper was nopany, and she hadn¡¯t connected with any neighbors. Loneliness gnawed at her.


    ¡°What, I can¡¯t visit you? It¡¯s dull being alone with no one to talk to. Your brother¡¯s tired of me, but you¡¯re not going to push me away, too, are you?¡± Her eyes welled up as she dabbed at them, her expression pitiful.


    Ethan caught the glint of gray at her temples and felt a pang of sympathy.


    He said, ¡°Fine, stay if you want. But I¡¯m serious¡ªdon¡¯t interfere in my life or start picking at everything. Brenna and I are getting married soon. When she moves in, don¡¯t give her a hard time.¡±


    Elsa wiped her eyes with theatrical ir, huffing in mock offense. ¡°She¡¯s not even your wife yet, and you¡¯re already siding with her, making me look like I¡¯m some wicked viin. What if she picks on me? Will you have my back then?¡±


    L¨»t??¦Ó c§ß¦Á¦Ñ¦Ó?rs ¦Én g??l??ov?ls.??????


    Ethan nced at her as he walked toward the dining room, his voice calm. ¡°Brenna¡¯s not like that. She doesn¡¯t start trouble unless someone provokes her first.¡±


    Elsa nodded. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll y nice. I think Brenna and I will get along¡ªshe¡¯s not like Rosanna. Our families are on equal footing, so we¡¯ll probably see eye to eye.¡±


    Ethan had attended a business dinner earlier, drinking heavily but eating little. As he sat at the table, eyeing the array of simple, hearty dishes, he thought perhaps having his mother around wasn¡¯t the worst thing. At least he¡¯de home to a warm meal.


    Elsa felt a flicker of relief when Ethan didn¡¯t object to her staying. It gave her a small surge of happiness. Kenny¡ªthe son she had coddled and showered with affection all his life¡ªhad pushed her away without hesitation.


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 Chapter 1560

    Chapter 1560:


    And yet here was Ethan, the one who had always been quick to quarrel with her and caused endless mischief growing up, letting her stay at his ce. This truly surprised her.


    She turned her eyes on Ethan. ¡°Son, don¡¯t you think, with how sessful you and Brenna are and with all the wealth you¡¯ve built, you should be nning a wedding that¡¯s grand and memorable?¡±


    Ethan gave a shortugh, already knowing she still wanted them to have a big ceremony. His answer was firm and left no room for debate. ¡°We¡¯re doing what Brenna wants. She doesn¡¯t care for huge events. We¡¯ve decided on a destination wedding.¡±


    Elsa let out a frustrated sigh. ¡°And what about your father and me? Do we get no say in this at all?¡±


    ¡°This is our marriage. No one else¡¯s opinion needs to factor into it.¡± Ethan¡¯s voice was calm but final.


    His blunt tone struck a nerve. For a moment, she wanted to m her hand on the table and argue until he gave in, but she held back. She had lived long enough with his stubborn streak to know that wouldn¡¯t work. When Ethan made up his mind, no amount of arguing would change that.


    Since he refused to bend, she would go straight to the Harpers. If she could persuade them, especially Brenna, perhaps she could turn the tide.


    The next day, with nothing else to upy her, Elsa strolled through the neighborhood and eventually found herself standing at the gate of the Harper estate.


    A guard sat idly in the sun. Elsa approached him. ¡°Is Mrs. Harper at home?¡± she asked.


    The guard immediately recognized her. Elsa wasn¡¯t only Ethan¡¯s mother; she was also a renowned singer in Vand. Straightening, he answered respectfully, ¡°Mr. and Mrs. Harper are both out at work right now.¡±


    ¡°And when will they be back?¡± Elsa asked.


    ¡°Mrs. Harper usually returns around six. Mr. Harper gets hometer. Should I call them for you if it¡¯s urgent?¡±


    Elsa refused to handle something so serious over the phone. ¡°I¡¯lle back this evening,¡± she said before turning and walking away.


    g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í???s brings you fresh updates


    True to her word, she returned that night, arriving just after Shepard and Giselle had stepped inside. The guard had already told them of her earlier visit, so her presence was no surprise.


    Giselle had instructed the chef to prepare a few additional dishes, already deciding she would ask Elsa to stay and share a meal. Elsa had dressed with care, her appearance polished and refined, a clear gesture of respect toward the Harpers.


    Giselle weed her at the door with a polite smile. ¡°Please,e inside. It¡¯s cold out there.¡±


    Elsa returned Giselle¡¯s smile. ¡°I hope I¡¯m not interrupting.¡±


    In truth, Giselle didn¡¯t care much for Elsa. Elsa¡¯s habit of speaking without restraint had left an impression¡ªjust days ago, she had mocked Giselle for her husband¡¯s cheating incident and his illegitimate daughter.


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    Message from Noah: We¡¯re beginning the year with new chapters, lovely readers. Have an amazing, amazing time. God loves you, and Noah wishes you all the best. (?O?=)? ?


    .

 Chapter 1561

    ?Chapter 1561:


    Even so, Giselle kept her expression calm. ¡°Not at all. Dinner¡¯s ready. Join us.¡±


    Elsa agreed without hesitation. ¡°Alright.¡±


    Shepard also exchanged a few pleasantries with Elsa, and soon, the three of them settled around the dining table.


    Noticing Brenna¡¯s absence, Elsa looked around and asked, ¡°Where is Brenna? And what about Sandra? They¡¯re not home?¡±


    ¡°They had a business dinner,¡± Giselle said. ¡°They are meeting a partner from Plomond and will probably returnte.¡±


    Elsa gave a small nod, then cut straight to the matter as the servants set the dishes down. ¡°I¡¯m here to discuss Ethan and Brenna¡¯s wedding. Are you aware they¡¯re nning to hold a destination wedding?¡±


    Giselle had expected this topic. She knew that for all of Elsa¡¯s mour and fame, her views remained conventional.


    Choosing her words carefully, Giselle replied, her tone edged, ¡°Yes, we¡¯re aware. We¡¯re fine with whatever Brenna and Ethan decide.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°You¡¯re just letting them make such a careless decision? Our families have reputations to uphold. Their wedding should be grand, celebrated in style. You need to step in, talk some sense into them, and demand a proper celebration.¡±


    Giselle cast a nce at Shepard, his face an unreadable mask of calm. A faint, dismissive chuckle escaped her lips.


    Elsa caught the sound, and a flicker of irritation sparked within her. How could Giselle, roughly her age and raised with simr principles, be so nonchnt about Brenna¡¯s n to forgo a proper wedding ceremony?


    ¡°Giselle, what¡¯s so amusing?¡± Elsa¡¯s voice carried a sharp edge of disapproval. ¡°Do you honestly think a destination wedding is a sensible choice?¡±


    Shepard remained silent, not wanting to argue with Elsa.


    Giselle responded with measured calm, ¡°You raise a fair point. Avish ceremony does hold a certain allure. In our social sphere, such events are prime opportunities forworking and reinforcing status.¡±


    g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s is your gateway to fiction


    Elsa¡¯s expression softened, nodding vigorously in agreement. ¡°Precisely! Your family¡¯s empire is vast, and countless people would leap at the chance to rub elbows with you. You should give them that opportunity. Look at Ernst¡¯s recent wedding¡ªit was the talk of the town!¡±


    With a patronizing tone, she continued, ¡°I strongly suggest you steer Brenna in the right direction. She¡¯s a stunning, remarkable young woman who deserves to shine at the center of an event.¡±


    Noticing Elsa¡¯s untouched te, Giselle slid a fork across the table to her. ¡°Let¡¯s eat while we discuss this.¡±


    Elsa began to eat but didn¡¯t relent in her campaign to sway Giselle and Shepard. ¡°If you can persuade Brenna, I¡¯ll handle Ethan. We could n a spectacr wedding, something truly unforgettable. Ethan has the resources to pull off an event that would leave everyone in awe. The matter would elevate both our families¡¯ standing. Don¡¯t you agree?¡±


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 Chapter 1562

    ?Chapter 1562:


    Giselle ate slowly, her dislike for Elsa simmering beneath herposed exterior. Still, with the potential alliance between their families through Brenna and Ethan¡¯s marriage, she wanted to avoid unnecessary friction.


    So, with deliberate politeness, she replied, ¡°We¡¯re all getting older, having taken care of our children for years. Now, they¡¯re adults with their own minds and desires. They can make their own decisions.¡±


    Giselle quietly bristled at Elsa¡¯s overbearing nature, always intent on bending others to her will. She had no such inclinations.


    Elsa¡¯s temper red at Giselle¡¯s words. She felt her efforts were being dismissed.


    Why was everyone so blind to her well-meaning intentions?


    Did the Harper family not care about their prestige?


    Elsa said, ¡°I¡¯m firmly against a mere destination wedding. I¡¯m here to inform you that I intend to host a grand wedding for Ethan and Brenna, inviting important guests from all over the country. This isn¡¯t up for debate. If you oppose my n, we may need to reconsider the union.¡±


    She saw this as a chance to redeem her reputation after the fiasco of Kenny¡¯s wedding. Was that so unreasonable?


    Shepard, swallowing his rising frustration, responded with a stern edge, ¡°You don¡¯t have the authority to dictate this. Brenna and Ethan¡¯s decision isn¡¯t ours to make.¡±


    Elsa shot to her feet, her voice rising in indignation. ¡°Why don¡¯t I have a say? I speak for my family and Ethan¡¯s wishes! Why should you control everything? My family demands a spectacr wedding. If you refuse, perhaps we should cancel the engagement altogether!¡±


    Giselle let out a sharp scoff, her patience wearing thin. ¡°We¡¯ll speak directly with Ethan about that. I know your temperament¡ªoverbearing and irrational. We won¡¯t listen to you.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s voice trembled with rage as she unleashed her frustration. ¡°This is absurd! Not even a hint of room for negotiation? Your family¡¯s impossible. I am calling off the wedding!¡±


    She paused briefly, her breath catching, hoping Giselle would soften andpromise.


    However, standing up, Giselle shot back with equal intensity, ¡°Fine, cancel it! My daughter¡¯s only been home for a year¡ªI¡¯d rather keep her close a little longer anyway.¡±


    Elsa let out a sharp huff and stormed out.


    Giselle didn¡¯t bother to follow, spinning toward Shepard, her anger still simmering. ¡°Can you believe her? The kids had everything nned, we were all in agreement, and now she swoops in, ruining everything. Are Brenna and Ethan even going through with this marriage?¡±


    Shepard snorted, his irritation matching hers. ¡°If they don¡¯t get married, so be it. Brenna¡¯s still young¡ªfar too early to settle down. Let¡¯s just call the whole thing off.¡±


    Giselle sank back into her chair, her appetite gone. ¡°I¡¯m calling Ethan right now to let him deal with this.¡±


    Shepard gently caught her hand to stop her. ¡°Hold on. We don¡¯t even know if Ethan¡¯s aware of this yet. Let¡¯s not act rashly; we need to stayposed.¡±


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 Chapter 1563

    ?Chapter 1563:


    Giselle¡¯s frustration lingered, her voice tight. ¡°This is outrageous. You need to talk to Ethan¡¯s father soon. If they¡¯re notmitted, we¡¯re done. Brenna has plenty of prospects¡ªshe¡¯s not desperate to marry.¡±


    Shepard kept his tone steady, though his irritation was clear. ¡°Let¡¯s wait and see how this unfolds first.¡±


    They vented about Elsa a bit longer, then finished their meal in tense silence.


    Giselle waited for Brenna to return. It wasn¡¯t until eleven that Brenna shuffled through the door, a faint hint of wine on her breath, her face etched with exhaustion.


    ¡°Mom, you¡¯re still awake?¡± Brenna asked.


    Giselle trailed Brenna into her bedroom, holding off on mentioning Elsa¡¯s visit. Instead, she eased into the conversation. ¡°Are you and Ethan truly set on tying the knot?¡±


    Brenna caught the odd look in her mother¡¯s eyes. ¡°Yeah, we are. Why? What¡¯s going on?¡±


    Giselle sat down. ¡°Ethan¡¯s a solid guy, but his mother? Not so much. I¡¯ve noticed she doesn¡¯t seem to take to you. I¡¯m concerned that once you¡¯re married to Ethan, she¡¯ll make things difficult for you. Maybe you and Ethan should slow things down, keep dating a while longer?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s lips curved into a gentle smile. ¡°Feeling a bit protective, Mom? I get it. I¡¯m only twenty-three¡ªpretty young for marriage. Honestly, I¡¯ve been thinking I might wait until I¡¯m closer to thirty to get married.¡±


    She didn¡¯t press for details, but she sensed something must have happened for her mother to say that.


    ¡°No need to worry,¡± she added. ¡°Ethan has already promised that once we¡¯re married, we¡¯ll steer clear of living with his mom.¡±


    Giselle rolled her eyes with a sigh. ¡°Sweetheart, you¡¯re too trusting. Word is, Ethan¡¯s mother has been butting heads with her older son¡¯s wife, and now she has moved into Ethan¡¯s ce. I¡¯d wager she¡¯s trying to split you two up. It¡¯s not her first time meddling¡ªremember when she knew Ethan was dating you but still pushed blind dates on him?¡±


    Brenna nodded. ¡°Yeah, she¡¯s a handful. But don¡¯t worry, Mom; I¡¯m not rushing to the altar. Ethan and I have talked, and if pushes to shove, we¡¯ll dy things.¡±


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    At that, Giselle¡¯s shoulders loosened, a wave of relief washing over her. As long as Brenna wasn¡¯t hell-bent on marrying Ethan right away, she wasn¡¯t worried about Elsa¡¯s antics.


    If it came to it, they could just call off the wedding.


    Giselle¡¯s gaze softened, a warm smile breaking through. ¡°You look exhausted. Get some rest.¡±


    Brenna brushed the conversation off, thinking it was nothing to worry about. The next morning, she headed to work as usual. Around midday, her phone buzzed; the screen showed a number she didn¡¯t recognize.


    Her private number was shared with only a select few. When she picked up, she heard Elsa¡¯s voice.


    Brenna kept her tone courteous. ¡°Hello, Elsa. Is there something you need?¡±


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 Chapter 1564

    ?Chapter 1564:


    ¡°Sandra, I need to discuss something with you. Can we meet for lunch today?¡± Elsa said.


    Brenna¡¯s gut told her Elsa was about to voice her objections again, trying to block her marriage to Ethan. It grated on her nerves.


    ¡°Whatever you need to say, just tell me over the phone,¡± she said.


    Elsa bristled at Brenna¡¯s reply. What kind of attitude was that? Didn¡¯t she know she was speaking to her future mother-inw?


    She had hoped that, after her disputes with the Harper family, Brenna might offer a smoother path. Considering Brenna was about to marry her son, shouldn¡¯t she at least consider her feelings? But no, Brenna was just as stubborn and prickly as Rosanna, and every bit as irritating.


    ¡°This isn¡¯t something to settle over the phone. Let¡¯s talk face-to-face. I¡¯m at the restaurant near your office. If you don¡¯t show up, I¡¯ll go to yourpany,¡± Elsa said firmly, her voice brooking no refusal.


    Brenna started to answer, but Elsa ended the call.


    Looking at the silent phone, Brenna muttered, ¡°What is she up to now?¡±


    She didn¡¯t linger on it, though. Her thoughts were already shifting to her lunch with Darwin. He had been asking to meet for days, saying he had something to tell her. But she had been swamped, grabbing only quick bites during breaks so she could leave work on time for her evening dates with Ethan.


    So, she had kept postponing seeing Darwin.


    Today, however, she couldn¡¯t avoid him any longer and finally agreed to have lunch with him.


    She believed she could meet him and talk to Elsa at the same time, so she invited Darwin to the very restaurant Elsa had mentioned.


    After confirming the n, she dove back into her work. She met Joe and Tommy to review project updates, handing out new assignments to lighten her own workload. She kept the military design contracts for herself, assigning the rest to her team.


    By noon, she had finally wrapped things up.


    g?ln¦Ò¦Í????s delivers what you seek


    Darwin had been waiting for her in the office lounge for a while.


    Brenna grabbed her coat and bag and walked over to him. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Darwin gave a long sigh. ¡°You are so busy. Getting you to lunch is so difficult. Don¡¯t you have a vice president? Why not let him take over more? It seems you¡¯re much busier than you used to be.¡±


    Brenna shrugged and replied, ¡°The vice president? He¡¯s married to my best friend, and she just had a baby. He¡¯s busy being super-dad at home, so he has dumped half his work on me. It¡¯s overwhelming, but I try to finish early so I can spend¡­¡±


    Evenings with Ethan.¡±


    Darwin nodded. ¡°You really should hire a professional manager to share the load. Yourpany¡¯s growing quickly, with branches even in Plieca.¡±


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 Chapter 1565

    ?Chapter 1565:


    Brenna thought it was a good idea, but she wasn¡¯t sure Thiago would agree. She would have to check with himter. If he wasn¡¯t on board, he would just have to step up and handle the work himself.


    ¡°You are right; I¡¯m drowning here. Oh, and by the way, I heard you have a new girlfriend?¡± Brenna said as they stepped into the elevator, curiosity piqued.


    Darwin chuckled. ¡°Yeah. She¡¯s in my field, also studied abroad before. My mom¡¯s friend introduced us. She¡¯s smart and attractive. I¡¯ll bring her to meet you one day.¡±


    Brenna grinned, feeling happy for him. ¡°Sounds like you really like her.¡±


    Darwin let out a smallugh. ¡°Like her? It¡¯s too early to say since we haven¡¯t known each other for long. But she¡¯s great. Her parents are government officials, and my mom thinks we¡¯re a perfect match.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m happy for you,¡± Brenna said warmly. Darwin was a good guy, and he deserved happiness.


    When they arrived at the restaurant, Brenna immediately spotted Elsa.


    She sat alone with only a coffee in front of her, no food ordered yet.


    Brenna turned to Darwin. ¡°Give me a moment. I need to talk to Ethan¡¯s mom first.¡±


    Darwin nced over, recognizing the renowned Vand singer.


    Despite being nearly sixty, Elsa looked a lot younger than her age.


    He nodded. ¡°Go ahead. I¡¯ll order for both of us.¡±


    Brenna walked over and sat across from Elsa, who had her back to Darwin and hadn¡¯t noticed him.


    Elsa felt a wave of smug satisfaction. She had told Brenna toe, and even though Brenna resisted, here she was, showing up just like she expected.


    The waiter approached, spotting the new arrival. ¡°Ma¡¯am, what may I get started for you?¡± he asked with polished courtesy, recognizing Elsa as Vand¡¯s celebrated singer.


    Elsa¡¯s chest swelled with pride¡ªher fame ensured she was treated like royalty wherever she went.


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    She was convinced Brenna was smitten with her son, Ethan; why else would Brennae anyway?


    Even if she put Brenna in a tight spot, Brenna would likely hold her tongue out of deference because she was Ethan¡¯s mother.


    With a subtle smirk, Elsa ordered, ¡°I¡¯ll have a loaded nacho tter, two BBQ chicken skewers, a grilled salmon fillet, a portion of smoked brisket, a basket of fried shrimp, and a side of macaroni and cheese.¡±


    She deliberately ordered just enough for herself, casting a challenging nce at Brenna, making no effort to include her or inquire about her preferences, hoping to put her in an awkward position.


    The waiter sensed the undercurrent of tension but maintained his professionalism. Turning to Brenna, he asked, ¡°And for you, miss? What would you like to eat?¡±


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 Chapter 1566

    ?Chapter 1566:


    Brenna saw through Elsa¡¯s ploy and remained unfazed. ¡°I¡¯m fine, thank you. I¡¯m just here to have a quick chat with thisdy before joining my friend.¡±


    The waiter gave Elsa a curious nce. She had clearly been waiting for Brenna, yet Brenna had no intention of sharing a meal with her.


    Elsa caught the waiter¡¯s look, and her pride took a sting. Her dislike for Brenna grew¡ªBrenna seemed to be intentionally humiliating her. Brenna was probably lying about meeting a friend just to save face, Elsa thought.


    Her lips curved into a smirk. ¡°With a friend? Strange¡ªI don¡¯t see anyone.¡±


    At that moment, Darwin nced Brenna¡¯s way. She returned his look with a smile.


    Elsa¡¯s suspicion red. Her voice turned sharp. ¡°You¡¯re dating my son and having lunch with another man? That¡¯s crossing a line.¡±


    Brenna had no patience for her usation. ¡°Yes, I¡¯m dating your son. That doesn¡¯t mean he owns me. Why can¡¯t I have lunch with someone else?¡±


    Instead of exining herself, she pushed back.


    To Elsa, it felt like open disrespect, as if Brenna didn¡¯t care about Ethan at all.


    How could she be so dismissive of her son¡¯s emotions?


    ¡°You¡¯re seeing two men at once? That¡¯s rather shameless, don¡¯t you think, Brenna?¡± Elsa snapped.


    ¡°What, just because I¡¯m with your son, I can¡¯t have male friends? That man is just a friend. Don¡¯t twist things,¡± Brenna said coolly. ¡°Now, if you¡¯ll excuse me, I¡¯m going to eat with him.¡±


    She rose to leave.


    ¡°Sit down!¡± Elsamanded sharply.


    Brenna sat again, expression frosty. ¡°Say what you need to say. My time is limited.¡±


    Elsa bristled. ¡°I¡¯m Ethan¡¯s mother. How could you talk to me like this? You¡¯re not afraid he¡¯ll leave you?¡±


    ¡°Why would I?¡± Brenna answered, ncing at her watch to hurry her along.


    Every journey starts at g?ln¦Ò¦Í????s©q??§à??


    Elsa¡¯s anger boiled over. ¡°I don¡¯t approve of this destination wedding nonsense. If you go through with it, the marriage is off. I won¡¯t allow it.¡±


    Brenna gave a shortugh. ¡°Your son doesn¡¯t even listen to you. You think you call the shots? If you¡¯re unhappy, take it up with him.¡±


    With that, she walked away.


    Ethan valued her wishes, not Elsa¡¯s. Where did Elsa get this misced confidence?


    Elsa¡¯s re followed Brenna as she joined Darwin at his table, chatting easily,pletely unfazed.


    The sight only enraged her further.


    Storming over, she demanded, ¡°What¡¯s going on between you two?¡±


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 Chapter 1567

    ?Chapter 1567:


    Darwin, already disliking her, found her rudeness irritating. ¡°What does that have to do with you?¡± he shot back.


    Elsa¡¯s pride burned as if it had been ground into the dust. This man had no regard for her stature as a celebrated artist. She shot him a venomous re.


    Brenna just sat there, expressionless, offering no defense on Elsa¡¯s behalf.


    She believed Elsa had brought this upon herself.


    She watched, intrigued, wondering if Elsa, with her carefully curated public image, would cause a scene to salvage her wounded ego. From what Brenna knew, Elsa¡¯s obsession with appearances would keep her in check.


    As expected, Elsa didn¡¯t confront Darwin. Instead, she yanked out her phone, rapidly snapping photos of them, her voice dripping with frost. ¡°Enjoy your meal. I¡¯m done here.¡±


    She waved her phone with a smug flourish. ¡°I¡¯m sending these to my son right now. Good luck exining this to him, Brenna. Maybe he¡¯ll finally see sense and leave you.¡±


    With a disdainful sneer, she spun on her heel and stormed off.


    The waiter, arriving with Elsa¡¯s order, watched her dramatic exit and shook his head, clearly unimpressed by the so-called artist¡¯s theatrics.


    Elsa marched straight to the Mitchell Group¡¯s towering office building, riding the elevator to the ny-ninth floor to see Ethan.


    But to her dismay, Ethan was away on business in Laeson.


    It was lunchtime, and the vast secretarial office stood eerily empty. Elsa felt her earlier bravado giving way to irritation.


    ¡°I need Ethan to see these photos immediately,¡± she muttered under her breath. She sent him the dozen or so pictures in a rapid burst, a cold smirk curling her lips. ¡°Brenna, you¡¯re not even married to my son yet, and you¡¯re out dining with another man. I won¡¯t stand for it, and neither will he. Brace yourself for a breakup!¡±


    She sank into a chair, feeling triumphant.


    She imagined Brenna crumbling, tears streaming, perhaps even groveling at her feet, begging for her forgiveness. Elsa let out a soft, self-satisfied chuckle at the thought.


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    But ten minutes dragged by, and Ethan still hadn¡¯t responded.


    ¡°Did he not see the photos?¡± Elsa wondered. She fired off a text, asking if he¡¯d seen them. Several more minutes passed¡ªstill nothing.


    Frustrated, she dialed his number, and it rang for a long time before Ethan finally answered, his voice sharp with impatience. ¡°I¡¯m swamped, Mom. What¡¯s this about? Make it fast.¡±


    Elsa bristled at his tone but swallowed her irritation. ¡°Have you looked at the photos I sent?¡±


    Ethan¡¯s response was clipped. ¡°No, I¡¯ve been busy.¡± That exined theck of response.


    ¡°Then look at them now,¡± Elsa said, certain no man could stayposed seeing his girlfriend dining with another guy.


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 Chapter 1568

    ?Chapter 1568:


    Ethan opened their chat and flicked through the photos, his face betraying no emotion. ¡°Yeah, I see them now. Brenna¡¯s having lunch with Darwin. If that¡¯s all you want to show me, I need to hang up now. My business partners are waiting, and I don¡¯t want to be rude.¡±


    Elsa was stunned. ¡°You saw your girlfriend eating with another man, and you¡¯re okay with it?¡±


    Ethan understood her implication but didn¡¯t buy into her concern. The man in the photos was Darwin¡ªsomeone he¡¯d shared a meal with just the day before.


    Darwin was a gentleman with a sharp business mind, not some yboy.


    ¡°They¡¯re just eating, not sneaking off somewhere private. What¡¯s the issue?¡± Ethan replied, his voice steady.


    Elsa was shocked. ¡°Brenna is your girlfriend, out with another man! That doesn¡¯t bother you?¡±


    ¡°No. I have to go.¡± Ethan ended the call, his brow creasing.


    Elsa stared at her phone, utterly baffled. How could her son be so nonchnt about this? Was he really fine with his girlfriend possibly betraying him?


    Her voice rose in disbelief as she eximed, ¡°He is okay with Brenna potentially cheating? They¡¯re already sharing a meal¡ªwhat¡¯s to stop them from taking it further?¡±


    Fuming, she tried calling Ethan again, but Ethan didn¡¯t answer. Her anger boiled over.


    As soon as Ethan stepped through the door of his ce that evening, Elsa walked over, unleashing a torrent ofints.


    ¡°Ethan, I¡¯m telling you, Brenna is no good for you. You two are already engaged, and she¡¯s out having lunch with another man? That is disloyalty! How can you just shrug it off? I went out of my way to discuss the wedding with her today, but she was downright rude to me.¡±


    Ethan slipped off his coat, passing it to a servant without a hint of reaction.


    Brenna had already filled him in on what had happened.


    And it was obvious Elsa was twisting the truth.


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    Noticing his silence, Elsa seized his arm, shaking it. ¡°Are you even listening to me?¡± she asked.


    Ethan remained quiet, striding upstairs to his room.


    Elsa followed, her tirade unrelenting. ¡°I¡¯m telling you, Brenna is trouble. She is headstrong, ignores everyone, and acts like the world should bow to her. Who does she think she is?¡±


    At his bedroom door, Ethan paused, his tall frame looming over Elsa, the dim hallway light softening his chiseled features. His tone was calm but resolute. ¡°I know what happened today. Brenna is not the stubborn one¡ªI¡¯m the one supporting her decision. I¡¯m not interested in those extravagant, meaningless ceremonies, either. We¡¯re set on the destination wedding. I¡¯ve already spoken with the Harper family, and the matter is settled.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s anger surged. She had gone to great lengths to convince the Harper family to consider a grand wedding, but now Ethan was dismissing her efforts.


    Not only would the Harper family think she had no influence at home, but Ethan¡¯s disregard was also maddening. All these years, he had never valued her input¡ªit drove her to the brink.


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 Chapter 1569

    ?Chapter 1569:


    She yelled, ¡°Do I even matter to you? Did you ever consider my opinion?¡±


    But Ethan shut the door in her face, ignoring her shouts. He stripped off his clothes, stepped into the shower, and the sound of water muffled her voice.


    Furious, Elsa paced outside, ranting for what felt like hours. By the time Ethan emerged from his shower, Elsa had already retreated to her room, seething.


    Both her sons were defiant, not listening to her at all.


    What was the point of all her efforts? She poured her heart into everything, and no one cared.


    The next morning, Ethan descended the stairs, intending to visit Brenna for breakfast. But then he saw that Elsa had already made breakfast, her face dark.


    She and the servants set the table, and she said to Ethan, ¡°Sit down and eat. I have something to say to you.¡±


    Ethan sauntered over, taking a seat opposite her. ¡°What is it? Go ahead,¡± he said, his voice cool and distant.


    He noticed her red, swollen eyes¡ªhad she been crying?


    Still, his face remained impassive. He didn¡¯t n tofort her at all.


    Elsa¡¯s disappointment deepened. ¡°Since you don¡¯t need me meddling in your wedding, there¡¯s no point in me sticking around. I¡¯m leaving your ceter. I¡¯ll waste away alone in my own house. Even if I drop dead, don¡¯t bother with me.¡±


    She watched him intently, hoping for a trace of guilt, hoping he would ask her to stay.


    But after a long silence, Ethan continued eating, his movements deliberate and elegant, his expression cold.


    ¡°Alright. Need a ride?¡± he said.


    Elsa¡¯s heart shattered. Both her sons were heartless; she had raised them for nothing.


    She was leaving, and Ethan didn¡¯t even try to stop her.


    ¡°No! You don¡¯t care about me at all anyway!¡± Elsa red at the breakfast she had prepared¡ªEthan¡¯s favorite dishes. Yet he didn¡¯t show even a hint of gratitude. It broke her heart.


    Sandra swung by Keira¡¯s apartment after work, arms loaded with grocery bags.


    Stepping through the door, she spotted Keira waiting with a warm smile. Lately, Keira had been quietly connecting the dots, convinced Sandra was sitting on a fortune. Still, she¡¯d made up her mind not to ask her for a lot of money. As long as Sandra slipped her a bit each month, it was enough. She didn¡¯t want her gambling habit to re up if she had too much.


    ¡°Sandra! You¡¯re finally here!¡± Keira called out, sounding genuinely pleased. These days, Sandra¡¯s visits had be less frequent, and Keira always seemed eager to talk to her.


    Sandra handed the groceries to the maid, then shifted her focus to Keira.


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 Chapter 1570

    ?Chapter 1570:


    ¡°Next time, you really don¡¯t have to buy so much,¡± Keira said. ¡°I haven¡¯t even finished what you bought for mest time.¡±


    Sandra let out a littleugh. ¡°I see. You and the maid probably can¡¯t finish everything. Anyway, I picked up some lobster and a bunch of sashimi for you this time. Enjoy it.¡±


    Keira¡¯s face brightened. ¡°Hey, is the Harper family throwing a wee party for you this Christmas? Do you think I could attend?¡±


    Without missing a beat, Sandra shook her head. ¡°Absolutely not. Didn¡¯t I tell you before? Have you thought about what might happen if you show up at the party? If you show up, the Harper family will just feel embarrassed. They still haven¡¯t forgiven you for what happenedst time. If you turn up, you¡¯ll only be shown out the door.¡±


    Even though Keira got where Sandra wasing from, she still wasn¡¯t ready to give up.


    ¡°I just want to see you get recognized by everyone, you know? Can¡¯t you sneak me in without the Harpers knowing?¡± she said, her tone hopeful.


    ¡°Mom, please don¡¯t make things difficult for me,¡± Sandra replied, her voice steady. ¡°I promised I¡¯d bring you something good to eat after the party. Besides, you just recovered. It¡¯s safer if you stay home and rest.¡±


    She caught the sh of disappointment in Keira¡¯s eyes, but she stood her ground. There was no way she¡¯d risk stirring up trouble with the Harper family for anyone, not even her mother.


    If Keira stirred up trouble, it would only push the Harper family to distance themselves from her again.


    They had just started warming up to her. She couldn¡¯t ruin it.


    Although disappointment was written all over her face, Keira decided not to argue. Quietly, she had already settled on sneaking in no matter what.


    She pretended to give in and casually asked Sandra, ¡°So where¡¯s the venue?¡±


    ¡°They booked a ballroom at the Pearl Grand Hotel. It¡¯s a five-star, high-end ce,¡± Sandra answered without hesitation, not thinking too much about the question.


    Keira made a mental note of the name. The Pearl Grand Hotel stood out as one of the most luxurious ces in Shirie, where even the cheapest room cost a small fortune.


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    ¡°The Harpers must really want to impress everyone, choosing a ce that luxurious,¡± Keira said, a hint of satisfaction in her voice as she moved on to chat about something else with Sandra.


    After dinner, right before heading out, Sandra handed Keira two thousand dors.


    It wasn¡¯t that she was being stingy; she just worried that giving Keira extra would only end up fueling another gambling spree.


    The next day, Keira slipped into the new down jacket Sandra had bought for her and hopped into a cab bound for the Pearl Grand Hotel. She nned to get the details on the Harper family¡¯s party herself. Sandra¡¯s warning didn¡¯t matter. She had already decided to sneak into the party.


    When Christmas finally rolled around, Julia and Darrell showed up at the Pearl Grand Hotel bright and early to double-check every detail for the celebration.


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 Chapter 1571

    ?Chapter 1571:


    After lunch, Keira took her time doing her makeup, slipped into the stylish wool coat Sandra had given her, and called a taxi to the Pearl Grand Hotel.


    Since she arrived ahead of time, only the doorman stood at the entrance of the hotel, and Keira slipped inside without attracting attention. She went straight to the third-floor ballroom, thinking her expensive coat would help her blend in with the guests.


    Stepping out of the elevator, she immediately noticed that the banquet hall doors were wide open, and four security guards were posted at the entrance. Inside, staff hustled, setting up trays of desserts and pouring drinks.


    The massive hall could easily seat a thousand guests. A wide aisle cut through the middle, with ample space on either side for drinks and desserts.


    Keira peeked carefully through the doorway, making sure her left wrist, her missing hand hidden beneath her sleeve, remained out of sight. She didn¡¯t want anyone to see it.


    ¡°Excuse me, ma¡¯am. May I see your invitation, please?¡± The security guard stepped in front of her, his tone polite but firm.


    Keira rolled her eyes and scoffed. ¡°Seriously? I¡¯m on the Harper family¡¯s guest list. I just left my invite at home.¡±


    The guard studied Keira closely. She was wearing designer clothes, high-end heels, and a pearl ne, but he couldn¡¯t help noticing she hadn¡¯t brought a gift.


    Most of the guests had shown up carrying presents, but she held nothing but a bag.


    He wasn¡¯t convinced she was really a guest.


    Still, theck of an invitation wasn¡¯t an automatic dealbreaker. ¡°For security purposes, could you tell me your name, please?¡± the guard said, maintaining his courteous demeanor.


    The Harper family¡¯s invitations included a guest list. He could check if she was on it if she gave him her name.


    Keira hesitated, unsure how to bluff her way in, as she didn¡¯t know anyone in the elite circles.


    She did know people from the Harper family, like Ableson and his wife, but pretending to be one of them wouldn¡¯t work since the guards knew them as well.


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    Looking at Keira¡¯s designer clothes, the guard made sure to stay courteous. Even as a Harper family employee, he knew better than to offend someone important.


    ¡°My apologies, ma¡¯am. For security purposes, I¡¯ll need your name so we can match it with the Harper family¡¯s guest list. If you are on the list, you¡¯re free to enter.¡±


    Keira picked up on how the guards masked their courtesy with a show of authority. She tried to sound deeply insulted. ¡°What¡¯s this all about? Just because I forgot my invitation, you¡¯re not letting me through? If you keep blocking me, I¡¯ll have Mr. Harper fire you!¡±


    All themotion drew Darrell¡¯s attention. When he saw Keira, he walked over. ¡°Please don¡¯t be upset, ma¡¯am. We¡¯re only following protocol for everyone¡¯s safety. If you can tell us your name, we¡¯ll match it with the guest list and get you inside right away.¡±


    Keira shot back, ¡°Why are you being so stubborn?¡±


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 Chapter 1572

    ?Chapter 1572:


    With a final re, she turned around and walked off.


    Hanging around any longer would only make it obvious that she was not one of the guests.


    If this entrance was a dead end, she¡¯d just have to figure out a different route to get inside.


    She slipped outside and quietly observed the staff as they moved in and out of the building. It didn¡¯t take her long toe up with another n. If she could pass as an employee, she could probably sneak inside.


    Keira tagged along behind one of the workers and slipped into the kitchen. The ce was a flurry of activity, hardly the kind of area a guest should be wandering.


    She had just set foot inside when a supervisor-type noticed her. ¡°The free dinner¡¯s being served on the first floor, ma¡¯am. This area is off-limits to guests,¡± he said.


    His tone was polite, but Keira¡¯s hopes sank. Clearly, blending in here wasn¡¯t going to work either.


    She mustered a strained smile and made a hasty exit, wandering the halls with no real direction.


    After another half hour, she stumbled across the empty staff changing room. Inside, uniforms in three different colors hung neatly on racks, each shade marking a different department.


    Keira recalled that the staff she had just seen inside the banquet hall wore purple, so she quickly grabbed a purple uniform from the rack and slipped into it without hesitation.


    Looking in the mirror, she believed she blended right in with the hotel staff.


    With a small grin, she stuffed her own clothes into a locker and strode confidently toward the third-floor banquet hall.


    The Harper family security team didn¡¯t check people in uniforms, so Keira managed to slip through without raising any suspicions.


    As winter nights settled in early, guests began to arrive by six o¡¯clock.


    Sandra arrived just after five. Julia greeted her and led her to the makeup room to prepare. The makeup artist worked his magic, and before long, Sandra was staring at a prettier, more polished version of herself in the mirror, just as stunning as Brenna, if not more.


    L?t?st c§ß¦Ápt?rs ¦Én g??lnov?ls.??????


    Julia was called away, leaving Sandra alone with the makeup artist. Lowering her voice, she asked, ¡°So, how much did the Harper family pay you to do makeup tonight?¡±


    The makeup artist offered a subtle, practiced smile. He already knew Sandra¡¯s status, and offending her wasn¡¯t an option, so he answered truthfully, ¡°One hundred and fifty thousand dors.¡±


    Sandra was frozen, her mind reeling. That was a lot of money. As a fashion designer scraping by on thirty thousand a month, the figure seemed astronomical.


    ¡°How long have you been a makeup artist? You look so young,¡± Sandra said, admiring the transformation in the mirror¡ªa new version of herself radiating newfound beauty.


    The makeup artist, a man in his thirties with a gentle demeanor, responded, ¡°I¡¯ve been doing this for about sixteen years. Miss Harper, is there anything you would like adjusted?¡±


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 Chapter 1573

    ?Chapter 1573:


    Sandra marveled at how expertly he had entuated her best features while masking her imperfections.


    Though she deemed the look wless, he continued refining subtle details.


    ¡°No. It looks great,¡± she assured him.


    With the final touchesplete, the makeup artist stepped back, waiting for his next task.


    Sandra lingered, and soon, Brenna arrived.


    Brenna was dressed in a simple, deep purple velvet gown with long sleeves. Her attire appeared understated at first nce, adorned only with a few scattered diamonds. Her hair was swept into an elegant updo, and she wore ck pearl earrings paired with a matching ne. Yet her effortless grace overshadowed Sandra¡¯s more ornate appearance.


    ¡°You look stunning, Brenna,¡± Sandra remarked, noting the gown¡¯s simplicity. Had she not observed its inness, she might have suspected Brenna was deliberately stealing the spotlight.


    Typically, such a deep purple shade could age its wearer, but Brenna wore it with captivating elegance.


    Looking at Sandra, adorned in sparkling jewels and far more morous than usual, Brenna smiled. ¡°You are the star of today, and you look beautiful. The ceremony is about to begin. Let¡¯s go.¡±


    In the banquet hall, guests sat at round tables, dressed in their finest, their attention fixed politely on the stage.


    Sandra took the stage with Brenna, noticing that the rest of the Harper family wore subdued, dark attire, while her light blue gown made her the focal point.


    The Harper family¡¯s thoughtful gesture touched her deeply; despite any private hesitations, they were ensuring she shone in public.


    Even Dalton, busy with his filming schedule, hade, alongside Ableson¡¯s family and Tessa, who typically avoided such asions. Giselle introduced Sandra to the assembled guests with heartfelt warmth, saying, ¡°Meet my daughter, Sandra. After enduring countless challenges over the past twenty-seven years, she has finally returned to us. She is stunning,passionate, and diligent. She is a remarkably talented fashion designer¡­¡±


    A surge of happiness washed over Sandra as Giselle¡¯s words sank in. The guests¡¯ courteous and warm demeanor calmed her nerves, dispelling her fears of potential disruptions or unkind remarks. The awkward scene she had feared never materialized. Everything proceeded without a hitch.


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    Following Giselle¡¯s speech, Shepard stepped forward, presenting her with a sleek ck card. ¡°Sandra, this card is yours, loaded with one hundred million for your personal use. Just say the word if you need more.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s eyes widened as she epted the card, a mark of elite privilege.


    Thevishness of the gesture stunned her, leaving her to wonder if it was merely for show.


    ¡°Thank you, Dad!¡± she said, her voice quivering with excitement.


    Even if the gesture was just for show, her heart swelled with joy.


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 Chapter 1574

    ?Chapter 1574:


    Shepard lingered, retrieving two property deeds from Julia and handing them to Sandra. ¡°These are for two prime retail spaces in a vibrant shopping district, now registered in your name.¡±


    Overwhelmed, Sandra felt lightheaded, questioning the reality of it.


    Why had the Harper family kept these gifts a secret before?


    What a wonderful surprise!


    ¡°Thank you, Dad! You¡¯re so good to me,¡± Sandra said.


    Then, Shepard handed her a car key. ¡°And there¡¯s a new car for you.¡±


    ¡°Wow!¡± a guest gasped, recognizing it as the key to a luxury vehicle worth tens of millions.


    Giselle gifted Sandra a spacious penthouse in the heart of the city. Ernst astonished her with a staggering fifty-million check and a luxurious apartment.


    Dalton gave her a sleek, convertible sports car.


    Brenna also gifted her arge penthouse.


    In a grand gesture, they handed her the keys and documents in front of the gathered guests, leaving no doubt that the properties and car were now hers.


    Sandra felt as though she were floating in a dream, half-expecting to wake up and find it all an illusion.


    The Harpers had always been stingy in the past. Why this sudden outpouring of generosity? Even if it was for appearances, they didn¡¯t have to actually transfer ownership.


    Perhaps she was overthinking things. She maintained a polite smile the whole time, though her face ached from the effort.


    Keira, blending into the crowd, buzzed with uncontainable excitement. She pressed a hand to her mouth to stifle a squeal. One hundred million, plus fifty million. Three houses, two shops, and two cars! That was a lot.


    When Sandra was unexpectedly called to give a speech, she froze, unprepared for the moment.


    Caught between nerves and exhration, her mind nked, still reeling from the earlier rush of joy.


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    Fortunately, Brenna had prepared a speech and slipped it to Sandra. Seeing the text jolted Sandra back to reality. Today was her big day. She couldn¡¯t afford any mistakes. Sheposed herself and started reading.


    ¡°Thank you, Mom and Dad, for embracing me as your own and for the love you¡¯ve shown since I returned home¡­¡±


    Keira, listening from the crowd, felt a sting of irritation at that.


    Was Sandra really calling Giselle her mother with such warmth?


    The ceremony was brief. After Sandra¡¯s speech, it concluded swiftly. Brenna then guided Sandra through the banquet hall, introducing her to the young people of Shirie¡¯s elite.


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 Chapter 1575

    ?Chapter 1575:


    The Harper familymanded immense influence and respect. Despite Sandra¡¯s identity as an illegitimate daughter, her public acknowledgment demanded deference. Guests vied to curry her favor.


    By the evening¡¯s end, she had connected with dozens on Facebook, including several affluent heirs.


    She didn¡¯t spot Keira.


    Keira had concealed herself behind a pir, cautious of the Harpers¡¯ watchful eyes. After thirty minutes, she slipped out of the hall unnoticed.


    Later, when Sandra went to the dressing room to change, she found Keira inside.


    ¡°Mom, what are you doing here?¡± Sandra¡¯s voice quivered with panic. She knew the Harpers¡¯ kindness toward her was for show; they didn¡¯t truly ept her. She couldn¡¯t afford to let her mother ruin the party.


    Keira locked the door and whispered urgently, ¡°Check the money on that card. Make sure they¡¯re not deceiving you.¡±


    Sandra frowned at Keira¡¯s intrusion. The makeup artist, along with Julia and two maids, could return at any moment to assist with her dress.


    ¡°Mom, leave now while there¡¯s nobody else around. If the Harpers see you, it¡¯ll spell disaster.¡± Her heart raced. She opened the door, saw no one, and hurriedly ushered Keira out.


    Keira was furious. But just then, Julia walked over, and Keira spun around and hurried in the opposite direction, heading into the restroom.


    Then, she called Sandra using her phone. ¡°Check if there¡¯s really money on that card. If they¡¯re tricking you, I¡¯ll make a scene¡ªthey¡¯ll be the ones humiliated!¡±


    She only cared about money. Reputation was meaningless to her.


    Terrified of Keira causing a spectacle, Sandra quickly replied, ¡°Yes, the money¡¯s there. I¡¯ve checked. But I won¡¯t give you a cent. I¡¯m going to use the money to invest. You should leave now. I¡¯ll visit you tomorrow.¡±


    Just then, Julia approached with the makeup artist.


    Unease gnawing at her, Sandra quickly ended the call and let them assist with her new dress.


    She fumed inwardly. How had Keira sneaked in? What if she¡¯d been caught?


    After donning a fresh gown and refreshing her makeup, Sandra reentered the grand ballroom, her eyes sweeping the space with feigned nonchnce, as though searching for an acquaintance. But in reality, she was looking for Keira.


    Failing to catch sight of her, she presumed Keira had departed and let out a deep breath of relief.


    The event continued well into the early hours. Sandra maintained a refined grin throughout, her facial muscles throbbing with fatigue by the end.


    It was only after 2 a.m. that she arrived back at the Harper mansion. Scrolling through her phone¡¯s directory, now brimming with numbers of wealthy and influential people, she finally felt she had entered the elite circle.


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 Chapter 1576

    ?Chapter 1576:


    Yet she recognized the true challengey ahead¡ªcultivating a handful of steadfast friendships.


    She couldn¡¯t risking across as aloof like Brenna, who scarcely had any close friends.


    The following day, she went to work as usual. Once her shift ended in the afternoon, she made a beeline for Keira¡¯s house, arriving without any gifts this time.


    She had been gearing up to confront her mother about sneaking into the banquet.


    The second she stepped inside, there was Keira sprawled on the couch, grinning as she watched TV.


    Sandra was still angry, a bit shaken too. She had explicitly told Keira not to go, but Keira had ignored her words and found a way to slip in. Still fuming, she sat down beside her.


    Keira, cheerful as ever, handed her some fruit. ¡°Here, taste these¡ªthey¡¯re very sweet. You picked them up yesterday, and I¡¯ve already eaten half the bag.¡±


    Sandra shot her a re and ignored the fruit. ¡°I told you not to go! Why did you sneak in like that? What if the Harpers had caught you? I would have been the one left embarrassed!¡±


    But Keira just waved her words off. ¡°Rx, they didn¡¯t catch me, did they? Your mom is no amateur. You¡¯re blowing this out of proportion. I only wanted to see you at the banquet¡ªwhat is so terrible about that? Even if they had seen me, what could they have done to me? I¡¯m your mother. You think they would just kick me out?¡±


    She was almost proud of what she had done.


    Sandra¡¯s temper spiked. ¡°You¡¯re reckless, Mom! The rich are obsessed with keeping up appearances. You lucked out this time, but if you had been caught, do you really think the Harpers would¡¯ve smiled and introduced you around?¡±


    Keira scoffed. ¡°And why on earth not?¡±


    Sandra let out an exasperated sigh. ¡°You don¡¯t understand the situation at all!¡±


    Trying to smooth things over, Keira softened her tone. ¡°Alright, alright, don¡¯t get mad. What¡¯s done is done. I won¡¯t do anything like that again, promise. Anyway, I noticed the Harper family raked in piles of giftsst night. Did they give you any? Those were meant for you, you know. Don¡¯t wait around¡ªif they don¡¯t offer, ask! Otherwise, they¡¯ll peg you as a pushover.¡±


    Sandra didn¡¯t see it that way. She knew the guests showed up for the Harpers, not for her.


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    She understood all too well how little weight her name carried.


    ¡°They¡¯re just the usual party tokens, Mom. Nothing useful. Stop thinking about them.¡±


    She knew exactly what Keira was after¡ªthe gifts. Rich people¡¯s presents were often pricey, and even if they weren¡¯t practical, they could be sold for cash.


    Keira bristled. ¡°I am saying this for your own good! Go ask where they stashed the gifts. If there is anything worth having, snag it¡ªand if something suits me, bring it to me.¡±


    Her demand came out blunt as a hammer, and Sandra¡¯s patience finally snapped. Her mother was always egging her on to wring something out of the Harper family¡ªgifts, money, favors. It was getting irritating.


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 Chapter 1577

    ?Chapter 1577:


    She couldn¡¯t stomach it.


    ¡°Enough, Mom. I¡¯m not asking,¡± she said tly.


    But as much as she hated to admit it, a tiny voice inside whispered that Keira wasn¡¯tpletely wrong. The guests had indeed brought the gifts for her.


    Keira tapped Sandra¡¯s forehead with a finger. ¡°Those gifts are yours by right. What is so wrong with iming what¡¯s yours? If you¡¯re too timid to open your mouth, don¡¯t cryter when they treat you like a doormat. Mark my words¡ªunless you demand them, you won¡¯t see so much as a ribbon from that mountain of presents.¡±


    Her eyes then narrowed, her true intent shining through. ¡°And the cards and checks they slipped you¡­ can you really get the money?¡±


    She believed that was the most important matter.


    Sandra had expected Keira to bring up the matter sooner orter, but she wasn¡¯t about to let her mother find out about therge sum she was holding onto, nor did she want her mother to get the impression that the Harper family was being miserly.


    She already had her reply ready. Resolutely, she said to Keira, ¡°Don¡¯t even consider essing those funds. They¡¯re tied up in investments. I¡¯m left with just a small amount, hardly enough for my own needs.¡±


    Keira doubted her daughter¡¯s im. How could Sandra have invested all that money in a single day? That sounded off. To her, it was clear her daughter was deliberately keeping the money from her.


    The thought made her blood boil. How could Sandra, her own flesh and blood, treat her this way?


    ¡°What¡¯s that supposed to mean?¡± Keira snapped, her voice trembling with frustration. ¡°You¡¯ve got so much money, and you can¡¯t spare a little for me? What, you think I¡¯m out to bleed you dry? I really raised you for nothing!¡±


    She red at Sandra in the hope she would at least give her some pocket money.


    But Sandra sat stone-faced, unwilling to bend.


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    That stubbornness stung Keira, who saw it as proof her daughter had no respect or care for her.


    The room sank into a heavy silence until Keira couldn¡¯t take it anymore. ¡°Come on, just give me some money! That¡¯s all I¡¯m asking!¡±


    Sandra turned to her with a cold, unyielding look. ¡°You know exactly why I won¡¯t. The moment I hand you money, you gamble it away. I told you before¡ªI¡¯ll cover your necessities, but that¡¯s it. If you need something, I¡¯ll buy it for you. The money stays with me.¡±


    Keira¡¯s lips twisted into a pout. ¡°I¡¯ve sworn a thousand times I¡¯m done with gambling. I¡¯ll be careful with money now, I promise¡­¡±


    She tried to defend herself, but Sandra didn¡¯t believe her; she didn¡¯t even reveal her ount bnce.


    Later, back at the Harper family estate, Sandra had nned to ask Julia about the gifts from the banquet. But Julia approached her first. ¡°Miss Harper, all the gifts from yesterday have been sent to your room. There¡¯s a mountain of them¡ªwould you like me to help unpack them?¡±


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 Chapter 1578

    ?Chapter 1578:


    Sandra froze, suddenly feeling embarrassed about her earlier worries. The Harper family had wealth beyond measure¡ªwhy would they withhold a handful of presents from her?


    She remembered the enormous pile of gifts, but she preferred unwrapping them herself, savoring the moment.


    ¡°No thanks, I¡¯ll handle it,¡± she said quickly, hurrying upstairs, curious about what rich people gave as gifts.


    The sight that greeted her made her stop short. Her room was overflowing with packages¡ªhundreds of them, arranged neatly across the coffee table and spilling onto the floor, wrapped in glossy paper and tied with ribbons.


    The sheer quantity left her stunned. Giving a few to her mom seemed reasonable.


    Excited, she started unwrapping the gifts one at a time.


    She soon realized that the preferences of the wealthy were¡­ peculiar.


    Common items like nes, fragrances, lipsticks, nail polish, luxury handbags, and skincare collections were no surprise.


    But then there were things she couldn¡¯t wrap her head around, like a full set of lingerie. Who had brought this? Was that even appropriate?


    And a pair of pajamas¡ªmade of premium material, designed provocatively¡ªwhich she secretly liked but still found odd as a gift. She had only sorted through a fraction of the stack, and the strange items kept umting.


    It was clear why Julia had offered to help; she would be unpacking until dawn at this pace.


    The initial excitement faded, along with her desire to keep everything for herself.


    She quickly summoned Julia, who arrived with two maids to assist with the unpacking.


    They kept the practical items for Sandra and moved the rest to the storage room.


    As a gesture of gratitude, Sandra allowed each of them to select a couple of items for themselves.


    She picked out two nes, two fragrances, several lipsticks, and two skincare kits for Keira.


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    For Brenna and Lilith, who had put in tremendous effort on her wee banquet, she also chose some thoughtful gifts. And for Giselle, she made sure to reserve something special.


    Sandra went to Brenna¡¯s room bearing a thoughtful present¡ªtwo elegant bottles of fragrance. Her heart raced with anxiety, fearing that Brenna might dismiss the offering as inexpensive and look down on her.


    After a gentle rap on the door, she clutched the perfumes firmly and entered, a wave of unease washing over her.


    Brenna looked up. ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    Sandra paused, her cheeks flushing with self-consciousness. ¡°The banquetst night was a smashing triumph, all because of you and Lilith. I was at a loss for how to express my gratitude, so I selected these two bottles of perfume for you. I hope you like them.¡±


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 Chapter 1579

    ?Chapter 1579:


    Brenna looked at the bottles briefly before taking them with a nod. ¡°I actually like these scents.¡±


    A sigh of relief escaped Sandra, and after a light exchange of pleasantries, she made her exit.


    Brenna nonchntly stowed the perfumes away in a drawer. They were from high-end brands, no doubt, yet they did not quite match her personal taste.


    The following morning, she headed to the office as usual, with Ethan driving her. Her own car, chauffeured by a pair of security guards, trailed closely behind.


    On the way, Ethan¡¯s phone buzzed to life. He fished it out from his coat pocket, checked it, and saw that it was Gracie calling.


    Gracie¡¯s matter had slipped his mind entirely.


    He switched the call to speaker mode, ensuring Brenna could catch every detail.


    Gracie¡¯s voice came through the line, thick with tears and desperation. ¡°Ethan, it¡¯s been three days¡ªWaldo still hasn¡¯t called me. But his daughter? She won¡¯t stop. She¡¯s rung me over and over, demanding to know if I¡¯ve left for good and even threatening to toss my clothes out. Ethan, you have to help me. I don¡¯t care if I divorce Waldo, but I¡¯m not giving my shares or my money to them.¡±


    Brenna absorbed the conversation fully, casting Ethan a re of contempt. She had no patience for this drama.


    Ethan had anticipated Brenna¡¯s irritation, which was precisely his motive for broadcasting the call. He intended to turn Gracie down on the spot.


    ¡°Gracie,¡± he replied evenly, ¡°I¡¯ve had it checked out. Those shares are registered under your name. If cashing in is your goal, simply sell them. It¡¯s easy, so I don¡¯t¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­need to help you with that. Regarding your split from Waldo, a legal expert is the way to go. Shall I connect you with one?¡±


    ¡°No, Ethan, that¡¯s not the point,¡± Gracie said. ¡°Waldo is avaricious and utterly brazen. He won¡¯t allow me to sell my shares, iming it would disrupt the Chapman Group¡¯s operations and send the stocks plummeting. He would rather I hold onto them and just collect the payouts. I want a clean break from him, but going against him on my own is impossible. That¡¯s why I asked for your help.¡±


    Her weeping was heart-wrenching.


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    Ethan stole a peek at Brenna, whose face betrayed clear exasperation; she was clearly fed up with Gracie clinging to him.


    ¡°I¡¯m at a loss here,¡± Ethan stated. ¡°What can I do to Waldo? Moreover, the Mitchell Group and the Chapman Group are knee-deep in joint ventures. I can¡¯t go against him. But I¡¯ll get someone else to assist you.¡±


    Gracie was no fool; she grasped the reasoning perfectly, but she just wanted to cling to Ethan.


    She kept crying.


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 Chapter 1580

    Chapter 1580:


    Ethan wasn¡¯t in the mood tofort her. ¡°My girlfriend can help you.¡±


    He nced at Brenna, who shot him a frosty look. Unbothered, heced his fingers through hers with a gentle grip.


    Gracie didn¡¯t love the idea, but she mulled it over. Brenna was powerful and capable. Surely even Waldo would tread carefully around her.


    Ethan gave Brenna a soft, coaxing smile.


    With a weary sigh, Brenna finally gave in. ¡°Fine. I¡¯m heading to Plomond tomorrow anyway. I¡¯ll sort it out while I¡¯m there.¡±


    Gracie hadn¡¯t anticipated that Brenna was right beside Ethan, and the realization stung. Jealousy pricked her like a thorn. She never liked Brenna, but she had to admit¡ªthis worked in her favor. She believed that if Brenna failed to secure the divorce for her, she would have the perfect excuse to keep asking for Ethan¡¯s help.


    Once the call ended, Brenna turned to Ethan. ¡°If you don¡¯t want to clean up her mess, why dump it on me?¡±


    Ethan squeezed Brenna¡¯s hand, his voice soft. ¡°I couldn¡¯t shake her off, and I don¡¯t want her pestering me forever. So I want you to deal with her. I¡¯ll make it up to you. I will do anything you want; just say the word.¡±


    Ethan was halfway through lunch with Brenna in thepany cafeteria when his phone buzzed. It was Kenny calling.


    ¡°Ethan, you¡¯ve gotta talk to Mom for me. Make here take care of Emmie. She¡¯s refusing to do it no matter what,¡± Kenny said urgently.


    Ethan frowned, caught off guard. ¡°Hold up. Last I checked, you and your wife kicked her out just a few days ago. And now you want her back? Come on, Kenny, you can¡¯t just toss her aside when it suits you and call her back when it doesn¡¯t. If I were her, I would refuse you too.¡±


    He meant it. Kenny and Rosanna had crossed the line this time.


    Brenna, sitting across from Ethan, raised a brow. Ethan usually kept family drama at arm¡¯s length, but when he did step in, he wasn¡¯t one to mince words.


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    Kenny let out a guilty sigh. ¡°Yeah, I know. We messed up. She meant well, and we didn¡¯t appreciate her. But this is different¡ªplease, just convince her. Emmie got hit on the head. It¡¯s bad, and we need help.¡±


    Ethan froze. ¡°What? She got hit on the head? By who? Wasn¡¯t Rosanna¡¯s mom supposed to be watching Emmie?¡±


    His thoughts scrambled. The pieces didn¡¯t fit. ¡°I¡¯ming over right now.¡±


    He shot up from the table to leave, still gripping his phone. Brenna didn¡¯t ask questions; one look at his face told her the matter was serious. She followed him out.


    Kenny exined things as Ethan strode toward the car. ¡°Rosanna¡¯s mom loves her card games. A few days ago, she got a call from her friend and dragged Emmie along to y cards. Emmie was in her stroller, fine at first, but one of the women brought her grandson, a rowdy little brat. He was fooling around with a dumbbell, dropped it, and itnded right on Emmie¡¯s head.


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    Message from Noah: Have a great weekend dear readers, today we have 2 new novel releases, hope you like them. God loves you and Noah wishes you all the best. (? ?? ? ¨C ? ) ?


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 Chapter 1581

    ?Chapter 1581:


    ¡°Emmie seemed fine at that time, so Rosanna¡¯s mom didn¡¯t say a word when she got back. This morning, Rosanna noticed Emmie couldn¡¯t sit up, and her eyes were zed over. We asked her mother about it, and after a while, she confessed.¡±


    Kenny¡¯s next words were tinged with concern. ¡°I¡¯m at the hospital now. The doctor says the damage is severe; we missed the critical treatment window. They don¡¯t think she¡¯ll ever walk, talk, or grow up like other kids¡­¡±


    Ethan¡¯s jaw tightened, his face hardening by the second. ¡°How could Rosanna¡¯s mother be that careless?¡±


    All he could think about now was making Rosanna¡¯s mother pay for her stupidity.


    Brenna hadn¡¯t caught the whole conversation, but Ethan¡¯s expression said enough.


    On the drive, Ethan told her everything.


    Brenna¡¯s face darkened, her voice sharp with anger. ¡°That¡¯s insane! She couldn¡¯t skip one card game? What she did was outrageous!¡±


    Both of them were angry, their hearts sinking. Sweet little Emmie¡ªchubby, bright-eyed, always giggling. The thought of her being trapped in a broken body, her future stolen, was unbearable.


    Ethan called Elsa andid out the situation.


    Elsa¡¯s fury poured through the phone, her voice sharp with curses aimed squarely at Rosanna¡¯s mother.


    By the time Ethan and Brenna reached the hospital, Elsa was already there, striking Rosanna¡¯s mother.


    Rosanna¡¯s mother didn¡¯t lift a hand in defense, only muttering through tears, ¡°It¡¯s all my fault. Go on, kill me. I¡¯ll pay with my life for what happened to Emmie¡­¡±


    Kenny and Rosanna stood off to the side. Rosanna¡¯s face was a mess of anguish; she wanted to stop Elsa, but at the same time, she believed her mother deserved to get hit.


    Ethan quickly stepped in, pulling Elsa back. ¡°Stop. Hitting her won¡¯t change anything. What matters now is Emmie¡¯s treatment. I already contacted a hospital abroad that specializes in brain injuries on the way here.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s hands trembled, her eyes red from crying. She adored Emmie. The sight of her precious granddaughter¡¯s vacant, unresponsive gaze shattered her. The sight of Rosanna and her mother made her furious.


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    She pointed a shaking finger at Rosanna, her voice cutting like a whip. ¡°I cared for that baby day and night. And you thought I wasn¡¯t good enough. So you handed her over to your mother, and look where that has led us! This is on you just as much as her!¡±


    Rosanna broke downpletely, her sobs echoing in the room, her guilt swallowing her whole.


    Kenny was on edge, eaten up by regret. He had always known about Rosanna¡¯s mother¡¯s weakness for card games, yet he had still let Rosanna talk him into leaving Emmie with her. He never should have agreed.


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 Chapter 1582

    ?Chapter 1582:


    Ethan¡¯s presence chilled the room, his eyes shing with restrained fury as he red at the disheveled woman on the floor. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you look after her properly?¡±


    M Haynes, Rosanna¡¯s mother, was a retired ountant. She had loved ying cards her whole life.


    She loved her granddaughter deeply, buttely, Rosanna had been venting about how Elsa¡¯s parenting shed with hers, sparking constant arguments. M, too, had gripes about Elsa, telling Rosanna that Elsa was condescending and looked down on them. Egged on, Rosanna had grown even more resentful toward Elsa, eventually convincing Kenny to drive her away.


    No one could have predicted this disaster. Rosanna¡¯s prejudice against Elsa and blind trust in her mother had led to Emmie¡¯s condition.


    Ethan¡¯s stare cut into M, cold and unyielding.


    ¡°I¡­ I thought¡­ she¡¯s only five months old. She can¡¯t crawl. She was safe in her stroller. As long as she was fed, I figured a quick game wouldn¡¯t matter,¡± M stammered.


    Just then, the door opened, and Jerry rk, a leading neurosurgeon in his fifties, walked in holding Emmie¡¯s CT and MRI scans. Everyone moved toward him.


    M spoke first, her voice trembling. ¡°Doctor, how is she? Can you save her?¡±


    Elsa¡¯s fury snapped. ¡°Save her? Look at what you¡¯ve done! If Emmie can¡¯t recover, I will make you pay!¡±


    The doctor¡¯s expression was grim as he replied, ¡°The child¡¯s brain has taken a devastating blow. There are severe clots and widespread tissue damage. If she¡¯d been brought in right away, surgery might have been possible. But now, it is toote for that. No treatment we have can repair this. Your only chance is Ocoxo Hospital in Norview. Their neurosurgery team is among the best.¡±


    Brenna took the scans, her practiced eyes moving over every detail. Though she rarely used her medical training, everyone knew her skills. All eyes were fixed on her.


    Ethan asked, ¡°Brenna, what about that drug you have for cardiovascr and brain cases? Could it help?¡±


    Brenna shook her head. ¡°Once brain tissue is damaged like this, recovery is nearly impossible. Even with specialized drugs, it won¡¯t change anything.¡±


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    The room sank into despair, and the anger toward M thickened.


    Elsa broke down, hurling herself at M with fists and kicks. ¡°You have destroyed her! She was such a perfect child, and you ruined her! I¡¯m going to kill you!¡±


    Kenny dragged his mother back. ¡°Mom, stop! Hurting her won¡¯t save Emmie.¡±


    M dropped to her knees, pping herself again and again. ¡°It¡¯s all my fault¡­¡±


    The doctor soon left.


    Rosanna copsed into Kenny¡¯s arms, sobbing. He held her tightly. ¡°There¡¯s still a chance. We can¡¯t give up. Ethan already contacted that hospital. Let¡¯s book flights now.¡± He pulled out his phone to search for tickets.


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 Chapter 1583

    ?Chapter 1583:


    Brenna and Ethan slipped out to get more details from the doctor.


    Elsa followed close behind.


    Inside the room, M edged to Emmie¡¯s bed, staring at the fragile child. Regret tore through her. She would have traded ces with her in an instant.


    The doctor¡¯s verdict echoed in her head: no hope for recovery. Raising a child in this state felt unbearable. The thought of death almost seemed kinder.


    M scooped Emmie into her arms and walked toward the window. She unlocked it, climbed up onto a nearby stool, and then, without hesitation, jumped.


    Neither Kenny nor Rosanna realized what was happening until it was already toote. M and Emmie were gone.


    The terrible sound of their bodies hitting the pavement echoed up from the street below¡ªa heavy thud followed by the sickening sight of blood sttering across the ground.


    ¡°Mom!¡±


    ¡°Emmie!¡±


    Kenny and Rosanna stared in horror. The two figures below hadnded headfirst.


    Shock crashed over them like a tidal wave. Their knees nearly buckled as they ran for the stairwell, panic driving them down floor after floor.


    Seven stories separated them from the street below. No one could survive a fall like that. The realization left them numb with dread.


    Chaos erupted in the hospital. A nurse burst into the neurosurgery office, eyes wide with fear. ¡°Someone jumped! I think from the seventh floor!¡±


    Ethan and Brenna felt their hearts clench, a terrible premonition gripping them.


    Elsa, hands trembling, clutched at the nurse¡¯s arm, her voice barely steady. ¡°Who was it? Tell me, who jumped?¡±


    ¡°An elderly woman jumped with a little girl who had just been admitted,¡± the nurse replied, still breathless.


    It was Emmie.


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    A wave of dizziness washed over Elsa. Her vision blurred, the world tilting until she fainted.


    Ethan and Brenna caught her just in time. Ethan¡¯s voice was frantic. ¡°Mom, are you alright?¡±


    Brenna kept herposure. ¡°You go check on Emmie. I will take care of your mother.¡±


    Ethan managed a brief nod. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    He sprinted to the patient room. The open window let in a cold breeze. He leaned out, horror gripping him as he saw the two bodies sprawled below, surrounded by a growing pool of blood. Despair washed over him.


    He flew down the stairs. By the time he reached the ground, Rosanna was already there, copsed over the broken bodies, her cries echoing in the air.


    A team of doctors and nurses gathered around. One of the physicians knelt beside the motionless forms, checked for any sign of life, then looked up and shook his head gravely.


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 Chapter 1584

    ?Chapter 1584:


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. They¡¯re gone.¡±


    Rosanna felt her world falling apart.


    ¡°No!¡±


    Her voice trembled as she stared at the two bodies, loss and guilt flooding her. If she hadn¡¯t disliked Elsa or asked her mother to take care of Emmie, none of this would have happened.


    me settled over her like a heavy fog.


    ¡°I did this. It¡¯s all my fault¡­¡±


    Kenny crouched next to her, his arm around her shoulders.


    ¡°This isn¡¯t your fault. Emmie didn¡¯t really leave us¡ªshe¡¯s in heaven now.¡±


    Ethan looked at the scene in silence. Emmie¡¯s eyes were shut, her little body still and broken, blood pooling beneath her head.


    Such an innocent life¡ªgone in an instant.


    His chest ached with sorrow.


    When he could finally move, he called the funeral home to arrange for the bodies to be taken away.


    Elsa arrived just as the staff started loading the bodies. Brenna supported her, keeping her steady.


    Elsa broke down when she saw Emmie¡¯s small form.


    By the time Emmett and the others arrived, the bodies had already been taken away by the funeral home staff.


    Brenna spent the whole day helping the Mitchell family with the matter, exhaustion weighing her down by nightfall. She had never anticipated the day would end this way.


    At dinner, she was silent. Giselle looked at her and asked,


    ¡°Are you alright? You seem upset.¡±


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    Everyone paused to listen.


    Brenna shared what had happened.


    The table grew quiet, Giselle sighing.


    ¡°There¡¯s no way anyone could have seen thating. It¡¯s just so sad.¡±


    The following morning, Brenna took Gracie to Plomond.


    On the way, Gracie scowled at her phone. ¡°I tried calling Ethan, but he never picked up. Why won¡¯t he answer my calls?¡±


    Brenna replied, ¡°He¡¯s caught up with family problems. Don¡¯t worry, I can help you deal with your issues. We don¡¯t need him.¡±


    Gracie pouted, clearly displeased with the arrangement. She disliked Brenna and preferred Ethan¡¯s help. She even suspected he was avoiding her on purpose.


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 Chapter 1585

    ?Chapter 1585:


    Gary kept his hands steady on the wheel, Felix lounging in the passenger seat.


    In the back, Brenna sat shoulder to shoulder with Gracie.


    ¡°Ethan must dislike me now. He never used to act like this before. You don¡¯t know¡ªback when Ethan was just starting his business in Norview, he was warm, almost tender with me. We were close. I even thought of him as my boyfriend for a while. My dad liked him too¡­¡±


    Gracie leaned closer to Brenna, rambling on about her past with Ethan like a broken record.


    Brenna, already irritable, snapped, ¡°Talking about it won¡¯t change anything. He¡¯s not into you. Stop grossing me out. If you don¡¯t want me to apany you, get out right now!¡±


    It was obvious¡ªGracie was saying those things on purpose, trying to drive a wedge between her and Ethan. She knew they were about to get married, yet she still spouted all this, which was incredibly irritating.


    Gracie¡¯s face tightened. She rubbed her belly and shot back, ¡°Why are you so mad? I¡¯m just chatting. I¡¯m married to Waldo now, pregnant with his kid. You think I¡¯d still pursue Ethan? Don¡¯t be ridiculous.¡±


    Brenna cast her a cold nce. ¡°Is this how you ask for my help? If you can¡¯t speak properly, then get out.¡±


    Gracie bit her lip, eyes brimming until tears slid down. The truth weighed on her: she had to divorce Waldo and settle the matter of the shares. She had fought with him countless times; he would not budge, wanted to snatch her stake, and had even threatened her safety.


    Without Brenna, she couldn¡¯t handle the matter.


    She had begged Ethan again and again for help, but he had brushed her off. It stung, making her feel like Ethan didn¡¯t care about their friendship at all.


    ¡°Sorry, I¡¯ll stop¡­¡± she muttered, sobbing, feeling cornered and powerless. No matter how much she disliked Brenna, she had to endure now. She needed her help.


    Brenna was done listening to her. She popped in her earbuds, letting the music drown out everything else.


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    Gracie sat there, feeling resigned. Brenna was in a foul mood today and probably wouldn¡¯t help her much. And showing up at Waldo¡¯s ce without extra muscle? That was unwise. If Waldo decided to hit her, what then?


    Two hourster, the car rolled into an upscale neighborhood in Plomond.


    Gracie¡¯s spirits lifted as familiar streets came into view. Today was about facing Waldo and demanding that divorce; she had to bring her A-game.


    She guided Gary to the right spot, and soon, the car pulled up in front of a house.


    Staring at her old home, Gracie felt her heart swirl with a mix of nostalgia and bitterness. Life had dealt her a rough hand.


    ¡°Let¡¯s do this,¡± she said, getting out of the car and leading the way.


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 Chapter 1586

    ?Chapter 1586:


    Brenna followed, her face nk, with Gary and Felix behind.


    Stepping into the living room, Gracie noticed Waldo and his seven-year-old daughter, Mindy, were nowhere in sight. She turned to the housekeeper. ¡°Where are Waldo and the kid?¡±


    The housekeeper, clearly rattled by Brenna¡¯smanding vibe and the two burly bodyguards, answered politely, ¡°They¡¯re upstairs, waiting for you. I¡¯ll fetch them.¡±


    Brenna took in the house¡¯svish d¨¦cor, all glitz and mour, and plopped into an armchair, crossing her legs like she owned the ce. She pulled out her phone to text Sandra, asking if she was still in for the investment and to transfer the money if so.


    Just then, Waldo descended the stairs, Mindy in tow.


    The little girl, sharp as a tack, spotted Gracie and ducked behind her dad, saying, ¡°Daddy, I¡¯m scared. She¡¯s gonna hit me again.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s eyes locked on the child for a moment before she stood, saying coolly to Waldo, ¡°Mr. Chapman, we meet again.¡±


    Waldo wasn¡¯t a fan of Brenna. He hadn¡¯t forgotten their first run-in, when Brenna had nailed him with a tennis ball on purpose. She was a force, backed by her family¡¯s power, and she didn¡¯t give him an inch of respect.


    His tone was icy, his eyes filled with disdain. ¡°Miss Harper, to what do I owe the pleasure?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m here to help Gracie get a divorce,¡± Brenna said.


    Gracie marched forward, her face like thunder, locking eyes with Mindy. ¡°I¡¯ve never so much as touched you, so don¡¯t you dare me me for anything I didn¡¯t do!¡±


    Mindy didn¡¯t bother defending herself. She just broke down, tears streaming down her face.


    Waldo, seeing Gracie¡¯s fierce re at Mindy, was beside himself with rage. He jabbed a finger at her. ¡°You¡¯re still iming you didn¡¯ty a hand on her? Every time she¡¯s near you, she¡¯s shaking like a leaf, and her body is covered in bruises! I took her to the doctor, and they confirmed she has been whipped and pinched hard.


    ¡°When I asked Mindy how you hurt her, she said you used a data cable tosh her and pinched her until she bruised. You¡¯re not fit to be her stepmom, not by a long shot! Even if you don¡¯t want a divorce, I¡¯m going to divorce you!¡±


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    Gracie shot Mindy a look sharp enough to cut ss, her jaw clenched tight. ¡°When have I ever hit you? You¡¯re making this up!¡±


    She truly hadn¡¯t hit Mindy before. She turned to Brenna. ¡°Miss Harper, I¡¯m telling you, I¡¯ve neverid a finger on her. If I¡¯m lying, may I lose everything I own!¡±


    Waldo was boiling over. He pulled Mindy close and rolled up her sleeves, revealing a mess of whip marks and pinch bruises on her fragile arms.


    ¡°You still going to stand there and say you didn¡¯t touch her?¡± he roared. ¡°How did Mindy end up like this, then? You think a kid would make this up? I can¡¯t believe how low you¡¯d stoop!¡±


    Gracie said, ¡°I don¡¯t know how she got those marks, but it wasn¡¯t from me. You can¡¯t just pin this on me!¡±


    Brenna kept her cool. ¡°Aside from Mindy¡¯s injuries, do you have anything to show Gracie is the one who did this to her?¡±


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 Chapter 1587

    ?Chapter 1587:


    Waldo scoffed. ¡°Proof? You think she¡¯d leave a trail for something like this? Sure, we¡¯ve got cameras at home, but they don¡¯t cover the bedrooms or the bathrooms. Gracie could¡¯ve easily done this in those rooms. Where am I supposed to dig up evidence? Mindy¡¯s word is proof enough!¡±


    Brenna didn¡¯t flinch. ¡°So, there¡¯s nothing else to back this up?¡±


    Gracie pulled herself together, her voice rising. ¡°Exactly! If you¡¯re so sure I hit her, show me the proof. Otherwise, quit trying to me this on me. Don¡¯t let Mindy¡¯s innocent act fool you¡ªshe¡¯s sharp as a tack and full of tricks!¡±


    A sly glint shed in Mindy¡¯s eyes. Those marks on her body? She had made them herself¡ªwhipping her skin with a data cable and pinching it.


    Waldo had too many women outside his marriage, and Mindy¡¯s mom, before she passed, had alwaysined about that. Mindy hated those women who wanted to marry Waldo.


    In her mind, they were the ones who had driven her mom to her death. So even if it meant bruising her own skin, she was determined to drive Gracie out of their lives for good.


    Waldo¡¯s eyes burned with fury as he red at Gracie. ¡°Look at all those marks on Mindy, and you¡¯ve still got the nerve to deny it? Fine, if you won¡¯t own up, we¡¯re done. I¡¯m divorcing you. I¡¯ve never met anyone as malicious as you!¡±


    Gracie didn¡¯t miss a beat, firing back, ¡°Good! I want nothing to do with you, either. I¡¯m selling my shares.¡±


    Waldo¡¯s face darkened. ¡°I¡¯ll buy them back for what you paid originally. I¡¯ll even throw in the dividends from the few months since we tied the knot.¡±


    Hearing that, Brenna calmly handed a pre-drafted divorce agreement to Waldo.


    Waldo spoke, his voice dripping with sarcasm. ¡°Well, Miss Harper, you are really helpful. You¡¯ve already got our divorce papers drawn up. Talk about being prepared.¡±


    Brenna didn¡¯t blink at his jab. ¡°Mr. Chapman, Gracie¡¯s got no family in Plomond to support her, and you might try to pull a fast one with the divorce terms or lowball her shares. Honestly, I think an open auction for those shares is the way to go. With your history, I wouldn¡¯t put it past you to tank the Chapman Group¡¯s stock price just to screw her over.¡±


    Waldo clenched his jaw. ¡°You¡¯re a real piece of work, aren¡¯t you?¡±


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    Brenna said, ¡°Mr. Chapman, I know you¡¯ve got your schemes, but if you think you can steamroll Gracie, you¡¯d better check with me first.¡±


    Waldo let out a snort. ¡°Gracie¡¯s got a hefty chunk of shares. Since you¡¯re in a rush to sell, I doubt anyone can scrape together the money for that on short notice. Tell you what¡ªI¡¯ll buy them back for two billion. Fair deal, right?¡±


    Gracie¡¯s temper red at that. ¡°Two billion? Waldo, are you out of your mind? I poured thirty billion into those shares before¡ªevery penny I had! And now you¡¯re trying to fleece me with two billion? No way. I¡¯m not selling the shares to you!¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t peg you as the type to take advantage of someone in a weak spot,¡± Brenna said, her piercing stare locked on Waldo.


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 Chapter 1588

    ?Chapter 1588:


    Waldo didn¡¯t take her seriously. This was his turf; there was no way he was letting her throw her weight around.


    He thought of their first sh¡ªhow she had cockily smashed a tennis ball right into his groin, nearly putting him out for the count. He had been stewing over that slight, just waiting to even the score.


    Gracie was his wife, sure, but he believed she¡¯d brutally tormented his daughter. He wasn¡¯t about to let either Gracie or Brenna off easily.


    Even with Gracie pregnant, it didn¡¯t move him one bit. He believed a woman like her had no right to motherhood.


    This was his prime shot at payback. Brenna only had two bodyguards with her now.


    Waldo pped sharply, and his bodyguards swarmed from every angle, bats gripped tight, their faces twisted in menace. In the blink of an eye, they had surrounded Brenna and her group.


    Gracie¡¯s blood ran cold. Her hands instinctively cradled her belly to shield her unborn child. She shouted at Waldo, ¡°You¡¯re a monster! I¡¯m pregnant with your baby! How can you even think ofying a hand on me?¡±


    Waldo let out a scornful snort. ¡°You care about your kid, but what about mine? Look at the hell you put my daughter through¡ªyou¡¯re malicious. I¡¯m just dishing out what you deserve. What¡¯s wrong with that?¡±


    Gracie quivered in anger, her loathing for Waldo growing. She hid behind Brenna, with Gary and Felix stepping up like a human barricade.


    Gary and Felix scanned the surrounding bodyguards. They looked skilled, and there were so many of them¡ªtwenty-seven in total.


    ¡°You¡¯re heartless. Gracie¡¯s got your own kin growing inside her, and you¡¯re fine with this?¡± Brenna said to Waldo calmly, her voice like steel. She was unfazed.


    Waldo grinned smugly, full of himself. ¡°If you drop to your knees and plead, Miss Harper, and keep mepany for a few nights, I might just show you some mercy.¡±


    ¡°Shut your mouth!¡± Gary eximed. ¡°Keep spewing things like that, and I¡¯ll break your legs!¡±


    Keep reading at .c¡ðm


    Felix¡¯s fingers inched toward the gun at his hip. He was ready for a fight.


    Waldo ignored them and fixed Brenna with a sleazy leer. ¡°So, Miss Harper? What¡¯s your take on my deal?¡±


    Brenna reckoned Waldo really deserved to be taught a lesson. ¡°Go to hell.¡±


    Waldo¡¯s gaze turned to ice, narrowing sharply. He ordered his men, ¡°Tear them apart!¡±


    Chaos erupted as Brenna, Gary, and Felix fought Waldo¡¯s bodyguards.


    Waldo had hired over twenty top-notch fighters, expecting them to crush Brenna and her guards in seconds. But things did not go as he had nned.


    In less than thirty seconds, six of his men were already down. Brenna, a young woman, struck like a seasoned assassin, each blow taking down another body.


    Gary and Felix were also skilled, knocking opponents to the ground one after another.


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 Chapter 1589

    ?Chapter 1589:


    In scarcely five minutes, every one of Waldo¡¯s bodyguards was on the floor, groaning in agony.


    Waldo¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief. ¡°This can¡¯t be! These are cream-of-the-crop fighters. How did they go down so fast?¡±


    Brenna closed in on Waldo, step by step. His face went pale, fear wing at him.


    Still, he did not forget his daughter. ¡°Go upstairs and lock yourself in!¡± he shouted.


    Mindy, seeing the tide turn, dashed off like a shot. Brenna did not pursue; she was not about to hurt a child.


    ¡°Mr. Chapman, do you have anything to say now?¡± Brenna asked, her tone t.


    Now, staring at Brenna, Waldo felt all his twisted cravings for her vanish in the face of her brutality.


    He spotted the lethal spark in her eyes. ¡°What¡¯s that supposed to mean? Are you going to kill me? There¡¯s really no need for that. Miss Harper, please calm down. We can talk about this properly.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s eyes were cold as ice as she grabbed Waldo by the cor, hauled him across the room, and dumped him onto the couch. She snatched the divorce papers from Gracie and shoved them under his nose.


    ¡°Sign it. Now.¡±


    Waldo took the papers, reading them carefully. Brenna wasn¡¯t about to let him stall. This guy was a sly fox, always scheming, always looking for loopholes. If she gave him the chance, he would nitpick every word.


    But it didn¡¯t matter one bit.


    Whether he liked it or not, his signature was going on those papers.


    Gary and Felix loomed at the foot of the stairs, ready to rush up at any second.


    Waldo¡¯s worst nightmare was them dragging Mindy into this mess. He could not let his daughter get caught in the crossfire again.


    Brenna leaned in, pressing a gun to Waldo¡¯s temple.


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    ¡°Quit stalling and sign already.¡±


    Waldo broke out in a cold sweat, his body going stiff.


    ¡°Miss Harper,e on, don¡¯t do anything reckless. We can talk this out.¡±


    ¡°Cut the crap,¡± Brenna snapped.


    Left with no moves to y, Waldo signed.


    Deep down, he was furious. The deal handed Gracie all her premarital assets, plus a cool two billion, two luxury cars, three houses, and fivemercial properties.


    And as if that wasn¡¯t enough to twist the knife, he would be shelling out a hundred million a year in child support until Gracie¡¯s kid became an adult.


    What a humiliating deal.


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 Chapter 1590

    ?Chapter 1590:


    Still burning with rage, he asked, ¡°What about Gracie¡¯s shares? How do you n to deal with those?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry about it,¡± Brenna shot back. ¡°It¡¯s Gracie¡¯s call, not yours. She doesn¡¯t have to sell them to you.¡±


    Waldo seethed. He had never expected her to be such a skilled fighter, taking out more than twenty bodyguards as if she were swatting flies.


    Next time their paths crossed, he would make sure she got what wasing to her.


    Brenna flicked her eyes toward the upstairs hallway, her voice soft but pointed.


    ¡°Mindy¡¯s studying at Maplewood Elementary, right? Word is she¡¯s doing great. Teachers say she¡¯s smart and cute.¡±


    Waldo¡¯s heart sank like a stone. He shot her a death re. ¡°Youy a finger on my daughter, and I¡¯ll burn your whole world down!¡±


    Brenna smirked, unfazed. ¡°You¡¯ve only signed the divorce papers; you haven¡¯t sealed the deal. On Monday, you need to go with Gracie to finalize the divorce. Drag your feet, and I might just take Mindy for a little joyride.¡±


    Waldo clenched his jaw, staring daggers at her. He knew she wasn¡¯t bluffing. ¡°You¡¯re a real looker, Miss Harper, but your heart¡¯s ck as coal.¡±


    Brenna let out a sharpugh. ¡°ck as coal? That¡¯s riching from you. You were ready to kill your pregnant wife just now. My tricks are nothingpared to that. And besides, you haven¡¯t even seen how ruthless I can get. Want to find out?¡±


    ¡°You win,¡± Waldo muttered. His eyes then dropped to Gracie¡¯s belly. ¡°Are you keeping that child?¡±


    Gracie shot him a look that could freeze fire. ¡°None of your damn business.¡±


    She grabbed the signed papers and stormed out.


    Brenna, Gary, and Felix trailed behind her.


    On the way back, Gracie turned to Brenna. ¡°How¡¯d you know where Mindy goes to school?¡±


    g?ln¦Ò¦Í????s?c?m fuels your imagination


    Brenna kept her cool, her voice steady. ¡°Waldo¡¯s a vicious person, always ying dirty. I wouldn¡¯t have been able to help you if I hadn¡¯t done my homework.¡±


    Gracie nodded, quietly impressed. Brenna was sharp as a razor, bold as brass, and cool under pressure. No wonder Ethan was in love with her.


    ¡°Thanks,¡± Gracie said. ¡°Will you apany me on Monday?¡±


    Brenna gave a nod. ¡°Yeah. I have a sit-down with Gerardo now. You want to tag along or head back to the Empire Hotel?¡±


    Gracie mulled it over. ¡°I¡¯ll go back to the hotel. I don¡¯t want to disturb your work.¡±


    Brenna hummed in acknowledgment, reaching into her bag. ¡°I drew up a share transfer agreement for you. Take a look.¡± She handed Gracie the document.


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 Chapter 1591

    ?Chapter 1591:


    Gracie blinked, caught off guard. ¡°You already found a buyer for my shares?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s Gerardo. If you¡¯re okay with it, sign this. If he¡¯s in, he¡¯ll pay up and handle the paperwork within a week.¡±AdChoicesADVERTISING


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Gracie wasn¡¯t Brenna¡¯s biggest fan, but she had to hand it to her; the woman was very capable.


    Sandra woke up to a flood of Facebook messages¡ªinvites from people she had connected with at the wee g, all eager to hang out.


    Keen to expand her circle and make some friends, she said yes, setting up a group meet-up.


    She spent all Saturday with them, not returning home until well past ten in the evening.


    Come Sunday, she decided to go to Keira¡¯s ce.


    Keira had been hounding her for money since the g.


    Sandra kept dodging the requests, brushing them off.


    She had her bodyguard drive her, and as they headed toward the exit, she saw Jordy lounging against his car, looking very much like he was waiting for her.


    When Jordy spotted Sandra¡¯s car, he walked over.


    Sandra had the driver stop, then hopped out and gave him a curious look. ¡°Mr. Barton, do you need something?¡±


    She was puzzled¡ªthey had already added each other on Facebook, so why not just message her if he had something to say?


    Jordy had one hand tucked behind his back. He sized her up, noting her indifferent gaze. His recent attempts to charm her had not worked at all.


    Wasn¡¯t Sandra supposed to be an easy target? If a yboy like Andres could charm her, why couldn¡¯t he?


    He was genuinely confused.


    ¡°Sandra, you got a minute?¡± he asked, still unsure whether he should hand her the rose he was hiding. If she refused to ept it, he would look like a fool.


    He was a big shot in Shirie now, with people tripping over themselves for his investments. Getting rejected by a woman?


    That would be humiliating if the word got out.


    ¡°I¡¯m actually on my way somewhere,¡± Sandra said. ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±


    Jordy let out a nervous chuckle. ¡°I¡¯ve got a project I¡¯d love for you to put some money into. Are you interested?¡±


    Sandra had some money in her pocket and was on the hunt for investments. ¡°Tell me more.¡±


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 Chapter 1592

    ?Chapter 1592:


    Sensing her interest, Jordy said, ¡°How about we find a spot to sit and talk?¡±


    Sandra changed her ns on the spot, no longer wanting to visit Keira. She didn¡¯t want to put all her money into Brenna¡¯s cybersecurity project; she wanted to spread her investments to avoid losing everything at once.


    She knew the value of not putting all her eggs in one basket.


    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s do it,¡± she agreed.


    Jordy finally pulled out the rose, shing a grin. ¡°This is for you.¡±


    Sandra, having just agreed to talk business, was caught off guard. ¡°Well¡­ this isn¡¯t really appropriate, is it?¡± she said.


    ¡°Come on, just take it. You¡¯ll make me look like a fool if you don¡¯t,¡± Jordy said with a softugh, certain she wouldn¡¯t refuse him.


    Sure enough, Sandra epted the rose, but added, ¡°No more flowers next time, alright? I¡¯m not looking to date right now.¡±


    Jordy nodded, but he didn¡¯t understand her. With his status and deep pockets, how was she not falling for him? She had to be ying hard to get, he thought.


    On Monday, Brenna put the screws to Waldo, making him transfer the properties and cars to Gracie and finalize the divorce.


    On the drive back to Shirie, Gracie let out a heavy sigh. ¡°He didn¡¯t give a damn about the baby I¡¯m carrying. Never thought he¡¯d be this heartless¡ªnot a shred of love for me. What a cold-blooded jerk!¡±


    She was done with men for good. Not Waldo, not Hector, not even Ethan could be trusted. From now on, she would only care about money.


    She vowed never to tie the knot again¡ªjust focus on raising her child and carving out her own path. She nned to start a business, even if it was small at first. Her dad had shown her the ropes of running projects, and now she believed she could pull some off on her own.


    Brenna, ever reliable, dropped Gracie off at home before heading back to the Harper estate.


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    Soon, she spotted Sandra waiting by her room, shing a smile.


    ¡°Hey, Brenna, you¡¯re back! Did everything go alright?¡±


    Brenna gave a nod. ¡°Yeah.¡±


    ¡°Jordy hit me up with some projects to invest in,¡± Sandra said. ¡°I¡¯m not sure if they¡¯re solid. Could you take a look and tell me what you think?¡±


    Brenna ushered Sandra into her room, gesturing toward the sofa before taking the stack of project proposals Sandra had brought.


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 Chapter 1593

    ?Chapter 1593:


    She flipped through them briskly¡ªthree in total. One detailed a new cancer medicine from Novarise Medical, another outlined an export-oriented fashion brand called ZenithWear, and thest described a robotics venture.


    Without hesitation, Brenna set aside the Novarise proposal and tapped it lightly. ¡°This one is worth the money. The other two? Forget them.¡±


    Sandra blinked, puzzled. ¡°Wait, why? Jordy swore those two were sure wins. He barely mentioned the cancer drug. Your opinion is totally opposite his; I don¡¯t even know who to believe anymore.¡±


    Just then, a knock at the door interrupted them.


    Julia stepped in, carrying two sses of lemonade, set them down, and slipped out quietly.


    Brenna took a sip before answering. ¡°That cancer drug was invented by Dr. Blue over at the National Medical Research Institute. She is a genius in pharmaceuticals. I met her recently. She is seeking investors herself. The drug is backed by solid clinical data, and it¡¯s a low-risk, high-potential investment.¡±


    Sandra leaned forward, absorbing every word. ¡°Makes sense. But Jordy warned me to stay clear of that one. Still, your reasoning checks out more than his. Honestly, Brenna, I¡¯m not cut out for this investor stuff. I just want something that grows my money without me having to make connections.¡±


    Brenna said, ¡°I¡¯ll exin my choice. The fashion brand isn¡¯t worth your dime. The industry is overcrowded, especially internationally. You would burn through your money before even turning a small profit if you invest in that. As for robotics, no one here in Vand, aside from mypany, has tech solid enough to stand in the market. They are still ying catch-up. So, neither of those options is worth investing in.¡±


    Sandra nodded slowly, trusting Brenna. ¡°Then I¡¯ll just stick with your cybersecurity project. Honestly, after listening to you, I¡¯m convinced Jordy¡¯s not as sharp as he thinks. And you know what else? The guy has been hitting on me. He used to be your boyfriend and now wants to date me. What a jerk.¡±


    Brenna let out a shortugh, though her eyes glinted with disdain. No matter how sessful Jordy became, he could never change. ¡°He has decent instincts when ites to business, but he is far from wless. Some of his ventures flop, though he hides them well. And morally? He is shallow¡ªprofit is his onlypass.¡±


    Sandra watched Brenna speak, realizing just how wide the gap truly was between them. Brenna was really much smarter than her.


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    ¡°I n to stop associating with him in the future,¡± she dered, though her voice carried a trace of disappointment. She had thought Jordy was a decent guy pursuing her, but his true colors had ruined the illusion.


    Her luck with men was dismal.


    If she hadn¡¯t seen Vivian publicly call Jordy out that day, she might have still been fooled by him.


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 Chapter 1594

    ?Chapter 1594:


    Back in her room, Sandra drafted a polite text turning down Jordy¡¯s offer.


    He called her within seconds. ¡°Sandra,e on, what is wrong with my projects? I was actually trying to help you make more money. You are not going to find anyone else as good as me.¡±


    Keeping her tone cool, Sandra replied, ¡°I appreciate the offer, but I¡¯ve alreadymitted my funds to Brenna¡¯s cybersecurity project. I don¡¯t have any money left for the projects you mentioned. Maybe another time.¡±


    Jordyughed softly, recognizing the polite rejection for what it was. So much for getting closer to the Harper family.


    ¡°Alright then. I¡¯ll keep you posted if something goodes up,¡± he said, forcing a casual tone.


    After the call, Sandra stared at her phone, a quiet sense of relief washing over her. She thought of the two storefronts on the main shopping street she owned. Should she lease them out or start something of her own? Both paths seemed viable.


    A thought sparked¡ªwhat about a fashion design studio?


    She had the funds and a decent social circle in the upper ss now. Even if the business didn¡¯t take off, she wouldn¡¯t be affected much. Besides, she had made plenty of high-society friends¡ªsnagging a few clients should be a breeze.


    Gracie plopped onto the couch, the TV sting some loud reality show, but her eyes were locked on the divorce papers in her hands, a tidal wave of relief crashing over her.


    She hadn¡¯t thought much of Brenna at first, figuring she was all talk. But it turned out Brenna was as sharp as a tack, just like Ethan; she and her two bodyguards had handled Waldo like he was nothing.


    Gracie was finally free from that deadbeat. Not only did she get all her assets back, but Brenna had also twisted Waldo¡¯s arm into signing over three houses, two cars, and five storefronts in Shirie.


    She owed Brenna more than words could cover.


    Maybe she should treat her to a meal soon, pick out something thoughtful as a gift. She couldn¡¯t let a favor like this go unthanked. And if a good project came knocking, she¡¯d make sure Brenna was in the loop.


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    Counting the weeks, she knew her baby was already three months along; it was time for another checkup. Tomorrow, she¡¯d head to the hospital.


    With no family left, this child was all she had.


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 Chapter 1595

    ?Chapter 1595:


    After she gave birth, she wouldn¡¯t be alone anymore.


    She booked an appointment with the same doctor from herst visit and turned in early.


    She slept soundly.


    By morning, she was up before the sun, even greeting her belly with a cheerful ¡°good morning.¡±


    She drove straight to Shirie Hospital, registered, and made her way toward the doctor¡¯s office.


    The ce was packed, a sea of people to weave through.


    Unlike most women who had their husbands tagging along for prenatal checkups, she came alone, but she didn¡¯t feel lonely. Her baby was herpanion.


    ¡°Gracie!¡±


    Someone called her name.


    Gracie spun around, scanning the crowd, until she saw Elsa walk over.


    ¡°What brings you to the hospital?¡± Elsa asked.


    Gracie blinked in surprise; she hadn¡¯t noticed Elsa in the swarm of people earlier.


    ¡°Sorry, Elsa, it¡¯s so hectic here that I didn¡¯t spot you just now. I¡¯m here for a prenatal checkup. I¡¯m pregnant.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s eyes flicked to her belly, though her own face looked strained. She wasn¡¯t well¡ªher blood pressure had been climbing, and the meds at home weren¡¯t helping, so she¡¯de to the hospital.


    She had wanted one of her sons by her side, but Kenny was in a bad mood, and Ethan was drowning in work. Two nights of back-to-back international meetings, plus daytimepany matters, had left him with no time to breathe. So, she hade with the maid instead.


    ¡°Pregnant? Where¡¯s your husband? Why isn¡¯t he with you?¡± Elsa asked, her voice softer now than it once would¡¯ve been. She had softened toward Gracie since Gracie¡¯s marriage, finding her more likable now.


    Gracie forced a thin smile. ¡°Didn¡¯t you hear? I¡¯m divorced now.¡±


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    Elsa¡¯s face hardened, her tone serious. ¡°Divorced? Then why keep the baby? You know I¡¯ve always thought highly of you, but raising a child on your own is tougher than it looks. Take my advice¡ªdon¡¯t put yourself through that.¡±


    Gracie stroked her belly with quiet resolve, her smile steady. ¡°This baby¡¯s my only family.¡±


    Elsa let out a weary sigh. ¡°It¡¯s your choice, but think it over carefully. Anyway, I should get to my appointment¡ªI¡¯m not feeling great.¡±


    Gracie, her brow creased with concern, asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Is it bad?¡±


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 Chapter 1596

    ?Chapter 1596:


    She noticed the pallor in Elsa¡¯s face, the crease in her brow. And Ethan wasn¡¯t with her.


    Elsa replied, ¡°Just high blood pressure.¡±


    ¡°You should go ahead. I¡¯ll get in line for my doctor,¡± Gracie said.


    The maid guided Elsa away while Gracie stepped into the long queue.


    Not far away, the pediatric department was buzzing like a beehive. A boy, about twelve, cried so loudly that his sobs seemed to bounce off the walls.


    His mother stood beside him, her eyes swollen and red, caught between heartbreak and helplessness. No other family around.


    The boy shouted at his mother, ¡°Why did you even have me? Did you ever ask me if I wanted this? I¡¯ve grown up without a dad¡ªdo you know how people look at me? I hate you!¡±


    The boy was unraveling as heshed out at his mom, shouting, ¡°Why did you give birth to me? Can you even afford to keep me fed and clothed? You can barely keep yourself together! We can¡¯t even grab a decent meal, and you can¡¯t buy me the cool brands. Now I¡¯m sick, and you don¡¯t have a dime for my treatment. You never should¡¯ve brought me into this world!¡±


    His mom, barely into her thirties, stood there in threadbare clothes, faded from years of wear. The boy, though, was decked out in crisp new clothes, rocking brand-name shoes.


    The mother shrank under the weight of judgmental eyes around her, tears carving paths down her cheeks. ¡°How can you say that, honey? I¡¯m your mom; it rips my heart in two to hear those words. You¡¯re my everything. I¡¯ve given you everything I can. You¡¯re crossing a line here.¡±


    The boy interjected, ¡°I don¡¯t care about that! I didn¡¯t sign up to be born! Did you ever ask me? Can you give me a life worth living? You had me just to watch me struggle. I¡¯m done with this! If you can¡¯t give me a good life, you shouldn¡¯t have had me at all!¡±


    A guy nearby, there with his own kid, had heard enough. He stepped forward, his face hard as stone, andid into the boy. ¡°Your mom gave you life, kid. Take a good look at her¡ªwhat is she wearing? Now look at yourself. Your family¡¯s scraping by, but you¡¯re strutting around in brand-name clothes. She has given you everyst drop she¡¯s got, and you¡¯re still acting like this? Shame on you. You want a better life? Study hard and make it happen yourself!¡±


    The crowd¡¯s eyes softened toward the mom, their sympathy evident. Even Gracie felt her heart stir.


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    Her hand drifted to her belly, her mind caught in a tug-of-war. Should she keep this baby?


    She had the money to raise the baby, but what if her child turned out like that boy, pointing fingers and ming her for bringing them into the world without their say-so?


    As her turn in line crept closer, an older couple cut in front of her. They were VIPs at this hospital.


    The crowd muttered under their breath, but no one dared challenge the pecking order. VIPs always jumped the queue.


    They could only be patient and wait.


    ¡°They¡¯re that old and still trying for a kid? Aren¡¯t they worried something could go south?¡± someone grumbled.


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 Chapter 1597

    ?Chapter 1597:


    ¡°Look at that guy, pushing sixty, easy. And she¡¯s gotta be nearing fifty. Still at it, huh?¡± a pregnant woman said, her tone mocking.


    Her husband chuckled. ¡°No way I¡¯d have the energy for that at their age. But look at her¡ªher hands are puffy as balloons, and she¡¯s barely showing. That baby¡¯s got a rough road ahead.¡±


    Gracie overheard their words and stole a nce at the couple.


    The man, with a shock of white hair, stood tall and imposing, his presence filling the room like he owned it, but Gracie couldn¡¯t see his face.


    She caught only the woman¡¯s side profile¡ªher face swollen, pale as a ghost. She leaned heavily on the man, looking like she was one step from falling apart.


    The doctor, brow furrowed, checked the woman¡¯s blood pressure. ¡°Your numbers are through the roof, and you¡¯re swollen all over. This is textbook preempsia, and you¡¯re only fourteen weeks along. What¡¯s your name?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m Shari Astley. I had checkups at the Central Hospital before, and they suggested¡­ ending the pregnancy. Doctor, I marriedte¡ªthis might be my only chance at a child. Could you help us save our baby?¡±


    The doctor¡¯s face grew heavier, his eyes flicking to the man, who carried himself like someone used to giving orders and having them followed. He knew he couldn¡¯t afford to offend people like him.


    Emmett spoke up, his voice steady but edged with steel. ¡°Please do everything you can to save our baby.¡±


    His tone was polite, sure, but itnded like a directive.


    The doctor shot them another look. ¡°We¡¯ll admit you for monitoring, but I¡¯ve gotta be straight with you. Preempsia at fourteen weeks is bad news for the baby¡¯s development. You need to brace yourselves.¡±


    Emmett gave a curt nod. ¡°We know. The doctors at the Central Hospital told us the same thing. We¡¯re ready to take the risks.¡±


    The doctor slowly shook her head, letting out a tired breath. Bringing a baby into the world this early, with the mother battling preempsia, was a recipe for trouble, no doubt about it¡ªbut the parents stood firm. She could not go against their choice, but honesty demanded she spell out every risk.


    L??€$? ¡é??t??§ñ? ?¦Ç ?@ln?¦Í¨ºl?.¡é??


    With that, she went through the details once more. Shari took it all in, herposure hanging by a thread, ready to unravel at any moment.


    She had already heard that very same advice at the Central Hospital, where the doctor had gently steered her toward Shirie Hospital, the crown jewel of OB-GYN care across all of Vand.


    ¡°Doctor, is there any way to make sure our babyes into the world strong and healthy?¡± Shari asked, her eyes brimming with unshed tears.


    The doctor nodded. ¡°If we get your blood pressure under control, we may be able to make that happen, though some risks will still remain. For now, let¡¯s get you admitted for close monitoring. I will set up a few tests to gauge how the baby is progressing.¡±


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 Chapter 1598

    ?Chapter 1598:


    After ten minutes, it was Gracie¡¯s turn. Her appointment went smoothly; the doctor checked her vitals, ordered a few tests, and then waved her off.


    Gracie was about to head to the ultrasound area to wait in line. Not far from the doctor¡¯s office, she ran into Elsa again.


    ¡°Elsa, how are you holding up?¡± she asked, her voiceced with genuine concern.


    Elsa appeared to be in a better mood now. ¡°The doctor gave me the green light to head home. He prescribed some pills, told me to track my blood pressure every day, ease up on the worrying, and I should pull through just fine.¡±


    Gracie¡¯s face lit up with a warm smile. ¡°Wonderful news! Take good care of yourself, okay?¡±


    With the weight off her shoulders, Elsa noticed Gracie was alone for her checkup. ¡°Let me go with you. You could use somepany.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s sweet of you, Elsa!¡± Gracie knew she would not have a future with Ethan, but she genuinely enjoyed Elsa¡¯spany. She weed her offer.


    The hospital¡¯s testing areas were packed, long lines snaking through every corridor. In the waiting area, Elsa¡¯s gazended on Emmett, who was steadying Shari as they emerged from a nearby consultation room. Shari wore a pained grimace, one hand pressed to her belly.


    She nced up at Emmett. ¡°This ache in my belly is getting worse. We should have the doctor take another look.¡±


    Emmett¡¯s forehead creased with deep concern. ¡°Shari, perhaps it¡¯s time to reconsider keeping this pregnancy. The experts at both Central Hospital and Shirie Hospital urged us to end it. We cannot gamble with your well-being for the sake of this.¡±


    Shari refused with a resolute shake of her head. ¡°Absolutely not. This is my one shot at motherhood. I refuse to give up so easily.¡±


    Their eyes lifted, meeting Elsa¡¯s in an instant. After a beat of tense, wordless standoff, Elsa let out a derisive huff. ¡°Chasing after a baby at your age? It doesn¡¯t exactly look promising.¡±


    The barb twisted like a knife, sending fresh waves of pain through Shari¡¯s body.


    Your escape begins with ga ln ov els .


    Emmett was already simmering with frustration. The fresh wound of losing his granddaughter mere days prior gnawed at him; if only he had been watching over her, the tragedy might never have urred. And now, staring down the barrel of potentially losing his own child, his nerves were frayed to the breaking point.


    ¡°Save your cutting remarks for someone who cares. I¡¯m fresh out of patience,¡± he fired back.


    Elsa wasn¡¯t the type to fold in a fight, especially not against Emmett; she had beaten him in arguments before and wasn¡¯t about to back down now. She turned toward Gracie. ¡°You hop in that line. I¡¯ve got something to deal with.¡±


    Gracie dipped her head. ¡°Elsa, remember what the doctor said about keeping stress in check. Don¡¯t go picking a fight.¡± She could tell Elsa was gearing up for a confrontation.


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 Chapter 1599

    ?Chapter 1599:


    Catching Shari¡¯s grimace and those swollen cheeks, Elsa savored a quiet thrill of smugness. ¡°All right, I¡¯ll tone it down. Wouldn¡¯t want her to suffer a miscarriage and then point the finger straight at me.¡±


    Emmett¡¯s ears caught the words, and his temper red even more. Releasing his hold on Shari, he charged toward Elsa. ¡°And what exactly do you mean by that? Take those words back!¡±


    Elsa barked augh. ¡°I¡¯m just calling it like I see it. Take a good look¡ªshe is frail, hardly any bump to speak of, and that face all bloated. That is no picture of health.¡±


    ¡°If you hadn¡¯t been so wrapped up with your new wife, would Emmie¡¯s ident have urred? If you had been taking care of Emmie, would Rosanna have demanded that her mother take over?¡± Elsa said,ying all the fault on Emmett.


    Emmett let out a bitter chuckle. ¡°You¡¯re quick to sidestep your own responsibility. Ever ask yourself why Kenny¡¯s wife dislikes you? If you hadn¡¯t been so vehemently opposed to their marriage, would she have resented you enough to bar you from caring for Emmie? You¡¯re using me now, but Emmie¡¯s ident? That¡¯s on you!¡±


    Elsa red at him, her breathing sharp. Fortunately, they were alone outside the operating room. If anyone had overheard, her status as a respected artist and singer could have been tarnished.


    She sneered, ¡°Maybe the universe is sick of your antics and is serving up some retribution. Karma is real!¡±


    Emmett¡¯s anger surged. ¡°You¡¯re reveling in this? Emmie was your granddaughter, too! You don¡¯t even seem sad about her death!¡±


    Elsa snarled, her voice nearly a growl. ¡°You think I¡¯m not devastated? Why do you think I¡¯m at the hospital now? I¡¯m heartbroken. My blood pressure has been skyrocketing, and pills aren¡¯t helping. But you? You¡¯re fixated on your own child. I bet Emmie barely crosses your mind!¡±


    Furious, she wanted their sons to see Emmett¡¯s true nature. Pointing at him, she hissed, ¡°Just wait. I¡¯m calling both our sons to see what kind of man you are!¡±


    ¡°Do what you want!¡± Emmett said, dismissing her.


    Stay updated g?ln¦Ò¦Íe??s


    Elsa dialed Kenny first. The phone rang endlessly before he answered, his voice weary and rough. Rosanna¡¯s soft sobs lingered in the background.


    Kenny felt remorse toward Elsa. If he hadn¡¯t let Rosanna persuade him into believing that she was wed, he wouldn¡¯t have sidelined her or forbidden her from watching Emmie. He shared the me for Emmie¡¯s ident.


    A lively little soul, extinguished.


    He med himself, feeling unworthy as a father. ¡°Mom, let Ethan deal with it. I¡¯m not up for this.¡± With that, he hung up.


    Rosanna, beside him, was even more shattered, consumed by guilt. Deep down, she knew Elsa adored Emmie and had gone above and beyond for her. When she was on duty and couldn¡¯te home, Elsa had stayed up nights, nurturing Emmie into a healthy, happy, chubby child. Each time she returned, Emmie looked happy.


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 Chapter 1600

    ?Chapter 1600:


    But her bias against Elsa had driven her to push her away. And though she knew her own mother was obsessed with card games, she had insisted she take care of Emmie.


    As Emmie¡¯s mother, she bore the primary responsibility for the tragedy.


    Regret overwhelmed her. Since Emmie¡¯s death, sleep had eluded her. Nightmares of Emmie gued her whenever she closed her eyes.


    She was teetering on copse, and Kenny was trying to pull her from the abyss.


    ¡°Stop tormenting yourself. In a couple of years, we will have another child. Emmie will return to us,¡± he said gently.


    Rosanna¡¯s tears wouldn¡¯t stop. ¡°I¡¯m a terrible mother, Kenny. Totally irresponsible. How can I even think about having another child?¡± Losing two loved ones at once had crushed her.


    ¡°No, it¡¯s not your fault. Don¡¯t overthink it,¡± Kenny reassured her. ¡°Tomorrow, we¡¯ll head back. Let¡¯s pull ourselves together. In a few months, we will try for another baby.¡±


    Rosanna nodded weakly. ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll do whatever you say. And¡­ I¡¯ll apologize to your mom. She deserves that. I was wrong about her before. If we¡¯re ever blessed with another baby, I want her to care for them. She really was wonderful with Emmie.¡±


    Elsa scoured the hospital for Gracie but couldn¡¯t find her. She dialed her number, but it went unanswered. A sinking feeling gripped her. Could it be¡­


    An hourter, Gracie emerged from the operating room, her face ashen and her steps unsteady.


    After much consideration, she had chosen to terminate the pregnancy. Raising a child alone felt overwhelming.


    What she craved wasn¡¯t a child or a new family member, but stability ¡ª a dependable anchor, not another weight to carry.


    She knew it was selfish, but with no one to rely on, she had to prioritize herself.


    Now, post-surgery and frail, she was utterly alone.


    ¡°Gracie! Why didn¡¯t you tell me?¡± Elsa walked over as soon as she spotted her. ¡°Going through that by yourself? You could have let me know. You look so pale.¡±


    Seeing Gracie¡¯s pallor, Elsa felt a wave of concern.


    ¡°Elsa, you¡¯re still here?¡± Gracie, moved by Elsa¡¯s care, offered a faint smile,forted that someone was there for her.


    Elsa guided her to a seat. ¡°I looked everywhere and called you but couldn¡¯t find you. I guessed you were in surgery, so I checked. Let me take you home.¡±


    Aware that Gracie had no family and needed support, Elsa stepped up to help her.


    The maid apanying Elsa lent a hand, supporting Gracie¡¯s arm. When they arrived at Gracie¡¯s ce, the maid offered to fetch some health supplements.


    Gracie, weak but appreciative, murmured, ¡°Thank you, Elsa, truly.¡±


    Elsa stayed for two days, tending to Gracie until her strength returned and she could manage on her own. Then, Elsa left.


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 Chapter 1601

    ?Chapter 1601:


    A weekter, fully recovered, Gracie drove to the Mitchell Group building.


    Brenna had managed her divorce, securing her substantial assets, and Gracie wanted to thank her in person.


    Brennacked for nothing, and Gracie knewvish gifts wouldn¡¯t sway her, so she opted for premium health supplements.


    By chance, Ethan was in Brenna¡¯s office at that time, a suitcase at his feet, while Neville and Rex waited outside, also with luggage. Gracie knocked and stepped in, catching Ethan and Brennaughing, clearly in high spirits.


    ¡°This probably isn¡¯t the right time for me toe here,¡± Gracie said, starting to retreat.


    Brenna smiled slightly. ¡°No,e in. He is about to head to the airport.¡±


    Gracie¡¯s eyes flicked to Ethan, tinged with affection. ¡°Where are you off to?¡±


    Ethan, not sensing anything amiss, replied casually, ¡°Trouble at the Norview office. I have to sort it out in person.¡±


    A fleeting idea crossed Gracie¡¯s mind ¡ª maybe she could join him, get some time alone, perhaps spark something between them.


    But she quickly dismissed the thought. She had pursued him for ages with no sess; he wasn¡¯t interested in her. Pestering him would be futile.


    A man like Ethan, focused and ambitious, wouldn¡¯t change his mind easily.


    Her only chance would be finding some leverage over him, but that was not easy at all.


    ¡°I¡¯lle backter. You two talk,¡± Gracie said, slipping out.


    She lingered outside for ten minutes. When Ethan emerged, he looked at her as if she were a stranger. She realized then that winning his heart was impossible.


    She knew he had always been distant with people.


    But when Brenna followed him out, he turned and embraced her with a smile. ¡°Look after yourself. I¡¯ll bring you something nice when I get back.¡±


    His gaze was warm, affectionate ¡ª nothing like the cold detachment he showed Gracie.


    Keep reading g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s


    Envy surged within Gracie.


    Why couldn¡¯t she find someone like Ethan?


    The men in her life were either cruel or unfaithful ¡ª not one worth keeping.


    Despite Sandra¡¯s polite request for advice, she secretly felt that Brenna was looking down on her.


    She had faith in her own design talent. Mentored by a celebrated designer, she had created garments for numerous affluent clients. Why wouldn¡¯t her work attract elite customers?


    Unconvinced, she kept her doubts to herself, aware that Brenna meant well. She also valued Brenna¡¯s perspective, given how sessfully she managed a majorpany.


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 Chapter 1602

    Chapter 1602:


    Brenna sensed Sandra¡¯s frustration; no one liked being told they were not good enough. Still, she did not soften her stance. To her, Sandra¡¯s designs were decent, suitable for a small-scale factory patternmaker, but nothing extraordinary.


    She said, ¡°I looked into your mentor. His reputation is shaky. He takes advantage of his students. If you rely on his name, he¡¯ll likely demand a big share. You¡¯re better off avoiding that.¡±


    Sandra nodded, knowing her mentor¡¯s true character.


    But without his name, how long would it take her to make a name for herself?


    Could she really notunch a high-end design studio?


    ¡°Brenna, do you have any advice on gaining recognition quickly?¡± Sandra asked. She was earnest about her entrepreneurial ambitions, dreaming ofmanding a bigpany like Brenna¡¯s.


    She assumed Brenna had leveraged the Harper family¡¯s prestige and resources to climb so high. Surely the Harper family had supported her extensively to fuel her thriving career.


    If Brenna could do it, why couldn¡¯t she?


    Brenna chuckled lightly. ¡°Sure¡ªwin a fashion designpetition, or at least ce in the top three.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s expression soured. ¡°I entered an international design contest secretly once, but I was eliminated in the first round.¡±


    The admission stung. She realized she might actuallyck the talent she thought she had.


    Brenna shrugged. ¡°Then there¡¯s no shortcut. Using your mentor¡¯s name won¡¯t work; your designs won¡¯t stand up to scrutiny. Even if he agrees, he¡¯ll probably take most of your profits. It¡¯s a bad deal.


    ¡°Skip the high-end studio for now. If you¡¯re set on starting a business, try retailing luxury brand products. That could seed.¡±


    Sandra felt displeased. Wasn¡¯t Brenna looking down on her now?


    She shot Brenna a defiant nce but pushed further, risking a jab. ¡°When youunched your business, were you certain you would make it? Did Dad and the others help you?¡± Her tone carried a challenge.


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    Brenna caught the edge. ¡°I started my studio six years ago while I was still with the Barrett family. I built it from the ground up; there was no help from the Harper family.¡±


    Sandra didn¡¯t believe her. ¡°You reached this level of sess entirely on your own?¡±


    Defeat crept in; she knew shecked that capability.


    Brenna nodded calmly.


    Sandra remained skeptical, suspecting Brenna was lying just to make herself look impressive.


    There was no way she had scaled such heights without help.


    The Harper family, Ethan¡ªsomeone must have given her a big push. How else could a young woman pull such a thing off?


    The more Sandra thought about it, the more she saw Brenna as hypocritical.


    She decided she didn¡¯t need Brenna¡¯s input anymore. Jordy could offer investment advice.


    She would ask for his opinion instead.


    ¡°Thanks, Brenna. I¡¯ll think it over,¡± she said.


    Brenna returned the documents. With the workday done, she headed for the elevator.


    Getting into the elevator with her, Sandra spoke up. ¡°I¡¯m going to visit my mom, so I won¡¯t head home with you.¡±


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    Message from Noah: I hope you enjoyed the new chapters, dear ones. New novels will be released in a few hours, please enjoy them! God loves you, and Noah wishes you all the best. ( ? ? ¨C ) ?¡±


    P.S. I will try to regrly release two new novels each week. I will announce which ones areing in the gal no vels WhatsAppmunity each time. (?????)


    .

 Chapter 1603

    ?Chapter 1603:


    In an upscale restaurant, Sandra and Jordy sat across from each other at a table elegantly set with gourmet dishes¡ªsteak, foie gras, decadent dessert, and a bottle of fine red wine.


    Jordy had just arrived, caught off guard by Sandra¡¯s unexpected invitation. Not long ago, she had been distant, even dismissive toward him, so her call to meet for dinner hade as aplete surprise.


    He had intentionally dyed his departure, letting an hour slip by, only to be further dyed by heavy traffic. By the time he reached the restaurant, nearly three hours had passed since her call, and it was almost nine.


    ¡°My apologies for being sote,¡± Jordy said. ¡°I got tied up with a major client, and the roads were a mess. I hope I didn¡¯t keep you waiting too long.¡±


    Sandra gave a gentle smile, unfazed by his dy. She was relieved that his presence signaled he wasn¡¯t holding her coldness against her. ¡°It¡¯s alright,¡± she replied warmly. ¡°Jordy, remember how my father gifted me two storefronts at my wee event? I¡¯ve drafted business proposals for them and would love your input.¡±


    Jordy was surprised. The Harpers were sharp business minds; Sandra could have easily sought their expertise. Why turn to him? Had she shed with her family again?


    He skimmed her proposals quickly, his thoughts echoing Brenna¡¯s earlier critique. ¡°Sandra, the clothing boutique has potential. Consider securing a license for luxury brands or a unique high-endbel. But custom high-end fashion? That¡¯s a tough market. No slight on your talent, but clients gravitate toward well-known designers, and elite circles are particr about a designer¡¯s reputation.¡± His tone was kinder than Brenna¡¯s, but the point was the same.


    Sandra understood that, aware of her limitations but determined to push forward. ¡°That¡¯s fine. I¡¯m not chasing fast profits. I¡¯ll build my clientele gradually. With my social connections, I¡¯m confident I can seed in three to five years.¡±


    Jordy, ever tactful, didn¡¯t debate her. He smiled encouragingly. ¡°You¡¯ve got a solid n. I¡¯m rooting for you.¡±


    In her mind, Sandra suspected Brenna had discouraged her high-end fashion idea out of jealousy, fearing she might outshine her. Convinced of that, she dered¡­


    Boldly, Sandra dered, ¡°My designs will only get better, and one day, I will be a globally renowned designer.¡±


    Jordy raised his wine ss in a toast. ¡°To your dreaming true soon. But, Sandra, there¡¯s another reason for this dinner, isn¡¯t there?¡±


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    Sandra nodded, her smile radiant, her belief in her future unshaken. ¡°Yes, I wanted to ask you something about Brenna.¡±


    Jordy¡¯s instincts were correct¡ªSandra¡¯s sudden interest in Brenna likely stemmed from another rift with the Harpers.


    ¡°Ask away; I¡¯ll share what I know,¡± he said.


    Sandra got straight to the point. ¡°You and Brenna were together before, weren¡¯t you? You¡¯ve known her for ages. When did sheunch her studio?¡±


    Jordy¡¯s brow creased slightly. ¡°I¡¯m not certain on the timeline. We¡¯ve known each other for over ten years. Back then, the Barrett family treated her like hired help, having her work like a maid. Later, she studied abroad, juggling part-time jobs, but I never heard of her starting a business. When she returned, she was still designing for the Barrett family. We dated seven years ago, and she hadn¡¯tunched anything then. Her studio was likely founded after she joined the Harper family.¡±


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 Chapter 1604

    ?Chapter 1604:


    Sandra¡¯s face darkened. She had no reason to doubt Jordy¡ªhe¡¯d always been honest with her. She believed it was Brenna who had lied to her.


    All this time, she had thought the Harper family cared about her. Now, it seemed they couldn¡¯t even be honest with her. The thought made her blood boil.


    Jordy caught the shift in her expression. ¡°What made you bring this up all of a sudden?¡±


    Sandra didn¡¯t hold back. She exined what had happened that afternoon with Brenna. ¡°I get the feeling she doesn¡¯t want me to use the Harper family¡¯s resources. But that¡¯s not fair. She got herpany started with the family¡¯s help; why can¡¯t I do the same?¡±


    Jordy¡¯s suspicions were confirmed: Sandra was upset with Brenna again. He also didn¡¯t like Brenna. She was too smug and condescending, always acting like she was better than him and warning Sandra to stay away from him. She got on his nerves.


    Still, he was curious. What had made Sandra turn on Brenna so quickly? Was it really just those business ns that did it?


    Jordy couldn¡¯t hide the small flicker of joy inside. Sandra drifting from Brenna gave him a chance to get closer to her.


    ¡°You¡¯ve got nothing to worry about,¡± he said smoothly. ¡°If youunch a high-end fashion studio, I¡¯ll be your first customer. I¡¯ll even get my friends to ce orders.¡±


    Sandra lit up, clearly touched. ¡°Thank you, Jordy.¡±


    They shared a meal, sipped their drinks, and talked for hours, happily.


    By the time Sandra returned home, the clock had already ticked past eleven in the evening.


    As she made her way upstairs, soft voices drifted from Giselle¡¯s room. She quietly moved closer, curious.


    Shepard was out of town for a conference. Only Brenna and Giselle were home.


    Inside the room, Brenna sat cross-legged on the bed in her pajamas. ¡°Are you really retiring and going to travel with Dad?¡±


    Giselle gave a gentle nod. ¡°That¡¯s right. I¡¯ve always wanted to see the world.¡±


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    ¡°Go for it. I support you,¡± said Brenna with a grin. Giselle reached for her hand, holding it gently as she looked at her with quiet pride. ¡°I heard you¡¯re diving into a new project. Sounds like you¡¯re putting in a hefty amount. You good on funds? If not, your dad can pitch in.¡±


    Brenna didn¡¯t bother to hide anything from her. ¡°It¡¯s not that huge¡ªjust a bit over five billion. It¡¯s a coboration with Gerardo: low input, decent return. I¡¯m just supplying the tech and handing over the code to his team; they¡¯ll take care of everything else. I can collect my share when the year wraps.¡±


    Giselle raised her brows. ¡°Five billion isn¡¯t exactly much. And didn¡¯t I hear you also invested in an animationpany recently? Those things burn through cash at the start. Still have enough left? If you¡¯re running tight, speak up. Your dad and your brother are always ready to help you.¡±


    With augh, Brenna leaned into Giselle¡¯s arms like a child. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ve got some spare change¡ªtwenty billion and counting. That¡¯s more than enough for me.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s heart gave a sharp jolt. Five billion, and Brenna brushed it off like that? And twenty billion¡ªjust lying around like spare change?


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 Chapter 1605

    ?Chapter 1605:


    She thought back to her wee banquet. Shepard had handed her a hundred million, and she¡¯d nearly cried, thinking it meant something. That it proved he cherished her.


    Now it hit her¡ªone hundred million meant nothing to the Harper family. It was spare change, the kind of money regr people wouldn¡¯t even bother picking up off the ground. Shepard giving her money wasn¡¯t an act of fatherly affection. It was charity¡ªno different from flipping a coin into a beggar¡¯s cup.


    Sandra was seething, the truth finally sinking in¡ªthe Harper family treated her and Brenna so differently.


    She¡¯d poured her entire savings¡ªone hundred and seventy million¡ªinto that cybersecurity venture, certain it would make her a major shareholder.


    But now, she realized that her stake was probably just two percent. She had been painfully naive.


    To the rich, a hundred million was nothing.


    Once Sandra was alone in her room, her thoughts wouldn¡¯t stop circling. And the longer they spun, the angrier she got.


    The Harper family never truly saw her as one of them.


    Her mother had been right all along¡ªshe should¡¯ve been scheming for money from the start. Chasing love from Shepard and Giselle?


    That was nothing but a foolish dream.


    No more of that.


    She made herself a promise¡ªfrom now on, being part of the Harper family meant only one thing to her: taking every cent she could.


    Sandra seethed with bitterness. How could there be such a big difference between how she and Brenna were treated when they were both Shepard¡¯s daughters?


    Was it all because Brenna¡¯s mother was Giselle, while her own mother had been nothing more than a housekeeper before?


    She had Shepard¡¯s blood in her veins, too.


    She had always been too reserved to ask him for anything, but after everything she¡¯d seen today, that hesitation was gone. From now on, she would take what was rightfully hers¡ªwithout shame, without apology.


    Fresh chapters live g?ln¦Ò¦Íe?s?c?m


    If she stayed quiet, Brenna would end up with everything.


    She refused to let that happen.


    The next morning, Sandra didn¡¯t bother waking up early to make breakfast, as she usually did. She was done being foolish. Everyone saw her as a maid because of that.


    She wanted to live as what she was meant to be¡ªa member of the Harper family, just like Brenna. Sandra pictured the confusion that would follow, imagined the Harper family members asking why she hadn¡¯t cooked, and had already rehearsed a speech in her mind to throw right back at them.


    But no one said a thing about the matter. The silence hit her like a p. Did they not like the food she cooked before?


    She had assumed someone wouldment, maybe say how much they missed her cooking. But it didn¡¯t happen.


    It turned out that no one in the family cared about her or what she did.


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 Chapter 1606

    ?Chapter 1606:


    After a while, Brenna came downstairs, moving with her usualzy grace as Julia rushed to set a bowl of oatmeal before her and even peeled her egg, cing it neatly in front of her.


    But Julia hadn¡¯t bothered doing the same for Sandra.


    Sandra wanted to ask why, but her courage failed her. The question burned in her chest, yet she couldn¡¯t bring herself to ask it.


    Soon, Ernst and Lilith arrived.


    Once everyone had gathered, Sandra decided to speak up.


    ¡°Brenna, I have something to tell you,¡± Sandra said.


    Brenna didn¡¯t even lift her eyes. ¡°What is it?¡±


    That dismissive tone sent a wave of irritation down Sandra¡¯s spine. She believed Brenna looked down on her.


    Ernst, Lilith, and Giselle remained absorbed in their breakfast, not sparing her a single look. It was as if she didn¡¯t exist at all.


    Sandra¡¯s frustration boiled over. ¡°I¡¯ve decided not to invest in your project anymore. I want my money back.¡±


    Her tone was sharp. She thought her seriousness would grab their attention and maybe make them show some concern.


    Brenna finally raised her head, her expression calm. ¡°Why? The project¡¯s doing well. You¡¯ll start earning profits in only three years.¡±


    Sandra didn¡¯t hesitate. ¡°I need the money to open my store,¡± she said.


    Shepard looked up. ¡°Opening your store? I already gave you two shops and ten million. That should cover it. Why pull out of the project now? I looked into it; it¡¯s a solid investment.¡±


    Sandra grew angrier. She¡¯d openly said she needed money, yet Shepard, with all his fortune, didn¡¯t offer a single dime to support her business! He didn¡¯t see her as his daughter at all. The realization sank deep¡ªthe Harper family didn¡¯t ept her as one of their own.


    ¡°I¡¯ve got my eye on another project,¡± Sandra said frostily.


    The Harpers exchanged brief nces, picking up on her bad mood. But no one spoke. They just continued eating. This stung Sandra. No one asked about the new project she was interested in. No one cared about her.


    Feel inspired by g¦Á ?¦Ç ¦Ò ¦Í?? ??s,


    Regret tightened Sandra¡¯s chest now. She should¡¯ve just asked Shepard outright for money earlier. How stupid of her.


    Brenna didn¡¯t try to change Sandra¡¯s mind. After breakfast, she stayed seated and calmly transferred Sandra¡¯s money back without hesitation. She could tell Sandra was upset.


    If Sandra didn¡¯t want to invest, Brenna wasn¡¯t about to persuade her. Whatever Sandra chose to do was her own affair; Brenna had no interest in interfering.


    The rumors about the Harpers mistreating Sandra had already faded. The grand g for Sandra before had polished the family¡¯s image.


    Brenna didn¡¯t have to tiptoe around Sandra¡¯s feelings anymore.


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 Chapter 1607

    ?Chapter 1607:


    Sandra sat frozen in disbelief. Not one of them tried to stop her or ask her to reconsider her decision.


    They really didn¡¯t care about her. Fine then. If that was how it was, she wouldn¡¯t hold back anymore, either.


    Sandra breezed into the office that morning, her mind already far from the daily tasks. With a flourish, she penned a brisk resignation letter, threw it at the HR manager, gathered her belongings, and left thepany without a backward nce.


    Mostpanies insist on a month¡¯s notice before resignation, but Sandra couldn¡¯t have cared less. As a member of the powerful Harper family, she was untouchable. What could HR do to her?


    Did she need that paltry thirty-thousand-a-month paycheck, given the fortune now at her fingertips? Hardly.


    With her office days behind her, Sandra turned her attention to her new business. She had gotten two thriving storefronts from Shepard, both nestled on the bustling main shopping strip. One, a men¡¯s clothing boutique, was pulling in a tidy seven million in annual profit. The other, a snack shop, was no slouch, either,ting five million a year.


    Sandra could have easily kicked back and lived off the profits of these two shops, but she had grander ns. She wanted to start her own business, built from the ground up.


    At the men¡¯s clothing store, a handful of customers milled about, browsing the racks. The manager, a middle-aged woman with years of experience, greeted Sandra warmly.


    Sandra wasn¡¯t the least bit impressed with the men¡¯s clothing line. To her, the ce was crawling at a snail¡¯s pace; if she were in charge, customers would be queuing around the block, and profits would be rolling in by the millions every month.


    She believed the shop was barely keeping its head above water. So much for Shepard¡¯s ¡°brilliant¡± business sense.


    ¡°Starting today, clear out all the stock,¡± Sandra announced, her tone crisp and final. ¡°I¡¯m giving this ce a full makeover; we¡¯re switching to women¡¯s fashion.¡±


    The manager blinked in confusion. Everyone knew the store now belonged to Sandra, and arguing with the boss wasn¡¯t smart business. Still, she hesitated. ¡°Miss Harper, the store is actually doing fine now; we pull in about seven million in profit a year. Wouldn¡¯t it be a shame to change everything?¡±


    Sandra gave her a sharp, almost disdainful look. ¡°What, are you saying my word doesn¡¯t carry weight here?¡±


    Seeing she had struck a nerve, the manager quickly backpedaled with a nervous smile, replying, ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant, Miss Harper. Whatever you say goes here. What kind of women¡¯s fashion are you thinking of?¡±


    Sensing the manager¡¯s change in tone, Sandra eased up a little, her voice losing its edge. ¡°Mid to high-end,¡± she said smoothly. ¡°You¡¯ve been in this business for years. Got any suggestions?¡±


    ?????????? ????????????: ?????????¦Í?????????????


    The manager didn¡¯t entirely object to the idea. She didn¡¯t care whether the shop sold men¡¯s or women¡¯s wear, but throwing away a loyal customer base still felt like a waste.


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 Chapter 1608

    ?Chapter 1608:


    She said, ¡°If you¡¯re set on women¡¯s clothing, I would rmend teaming up with a reputable international brand. The tricky part is, most of the big names already have stores along this street. Landing a deal might take time. Have you picked a brand yet, Miss Harper? What is the vibe¡ªssy, trendy, youthful? You¡¯ll need to narrow it down.¡±


    Sandra nodded, impressed by the practical advice. ¡°Fair points. What brands do you think would fit the bill? Give me a few options.¡±


    Fashion was no mystery to her. She had worked in the industry long enough to know the trends andbels by heart. She already had a brand in mind, though she hadn¡¯t reached out to thepany officially.


    The manager pondered for a moment. ¡°CloudPath, Harmony, and RiverBloom could all work. They cater to modern women in their twenties to forties¡ªstylish, elegant, not too shy. Prices range from a few hundred to a few thousand. Honestly, that¡¯s the sweet spot in this market.¡±


    Sandra smiled approvingly. The woman¡¯s instincts matched her own. She also wanted to focus on that price range, with a little twist¡ªcustom-made, high-end pieces for clients who liked something exclusive.


    ¡°You¡¯re good at this,¡± she said. ¡°I¡¯ve been eyeing CloudPath myself. Their designs are trendy but wearable, prices are fair, and their fabrics and tailoring are solid. They justck visibility. Hardly anyone has heard of them.¡±


    The manager led Sandra on a quick tour around the shop. It wasn¡¯t massive¡ªjust over a hundred square meters¡ªbut it was neat, functional, and run by six seasoned staff members who knew the business inside out.


    ¡°Alright,¡± Sandra said briskly, turning back to the manager. ¡°Start clearing out the inventory. Once everything is gone, we¡¯ll start renovations.¡±


    Feeling restless at home, Gracie passed the time on a video call with her friend, Lucy Rowe, who was dialing in from Norview.


    Lucy, about the same age as Gracie, belonged to a family that owned one of thergest diamond mines in the world. She was also engaged to the heir of the Olson family¡ªNorview¡¯s most powerful family. It was a textbook business marriage, built on alliances, not affection. The wedding was right around the corner.


    Lucy had always turned heads with her beauty, but to Gracie, she was more than that¡ªa lifelong friend who¡¯d stood by her through everything. Even after Gracie¡¯s family lost everything, Lucy never cut her off. Their bond held strong. Now, Lucy lounged in a steaming hot tub, a tray of snacks nearby.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe it, Gracie¡ªdivorced again? Are you seriously thinking about getting married a third time in the future?¡± she said.


    Gracie signaled the housekeeper to bring breakfast, then took a slow bite before answering, ¡°I¡¯m not sure. I haven¡¯t met anyone decent. I¡¯m done with marriage for now. No benefits, just a bunch of restrictions. Men are nothing but headaches.¡±


    Lucy let out a weary sigh. ¡°Watching your marriage disasters makes me dread my own. My fianc¨¦¡¯s out drinking every night, but I still have to marry him, and there¡¯s no such thing as divorce in my world.¡±


    Gracie gave a casual shrug. ¡°Then just pretend you¡¯re not married. Live your life, and let him live his. Simple.¡±


    .


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 Chapter 1609

    ?Chapter 1609:


    Lucy¡¯s eyes lit up with agreement. ¡°Exactly what I¡¯ve been thinking! We already made a deal¡ªafter the wedding, we stay out of each other¡¯s business. He handles his affairs; I handle mine. We¡¯ll just smile and pretend to be a loving couple at family events. Gracie, I can¡¯t stand the idea of marriage. All my parents ever do is argue¡ªmy father¡¯s out there with mistresses and a trail of illegitimate kids. I¡¯mpletely done with the concept of marriage. If no one¡¯s loyal in the first ce, then what¡¯s the point of calling it a marriage?¡±


    After a pause, she continued, ¡°But my father¡¯s making me go through with it just to seal his business deals and line his own pockets. If I refuse, he¡¯ll stop my allowance and take away my dividends. I don¡¯t really have a say in it. Honestly, sometimes, life just feels meaningless.¡±


    Gracie gave a small nod. ¡°You got someone you¡¯re into?¡±


    Lucy quickly shook her head. ¡°No. What about you? That guy Ethan you¡¯ve always talked about? Is he married yet?¡±


    Gracie¡¯s smile faded, a flicker of displeasure crossing her face. ¡°Not yet. But he¡¯s got his eye on someone. I don¡¯t stand a chance. Honestly, Lucy, I¡¯m bitter about it. Ethan¡¯s the best man I¡¯ve ever known¡ªloyal, grounded, and capable. He¡¯s the kind of guy people don¡¯te across twice. My family¡¯s t broke, so I don¡¯t even qualify for a business match with him anymore. I¡¯m telling you¡ªI really like him. And the thought of him lying next to someone else, holding her at night¡­ it makes my heart ache.¡±


    Lucy¡¯s eyes sparked as something came to mind. ¡°Almost forgot¡ªmy fianc¨¦ mentioned Ethan¡¯s caught up in some mess with Hector. It¡¯s over this cutting-edge tech or research, something called Gene One. Rumor has it there was even a shootout involved.¡±


    Gracie¡¯s stomach twisted. Hector wasn¡¯t just another rich man; he was ruthless, with a grip on Norview¡¯s power circles. If Ethan offended him, things could get dangerous fast. ¡°Is Ethan hurt?¡±


    ¡°No clue.¡± Lucy gave a yful grin. ¡°But even if he¡¯s not bleeding, he¡¯s probably running for his life. Why don¡¯t you go rescue him? Might just win his heart that way.¡±


    She meant it as a joke, but Gracie didn¡¯tugh. Her mind was already racing. She believed Lucy had a point¡ªthis might be the perfect chance for her to get close to Ethan.


    ¡°Find out everything you can about the matter for me. I¡¯m booking a flight now,¡± Gracie said.


    Lucy¡¯s face lit up. ¡°Wait, seriously? You¡¯reing here? It¡¯s been way too long since we¡¯ve hung out¡ªI can¡¯t wait! I¡¯ll press my fianc¨¦ for more details. Sit tight for my update. And if you need backup to save your guy, I¡¯m totally in. This is going to be thrilling!¡±


    Keep reading g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s


    Gracie didn¡¯t hesitate. She booked her flight and rushed to start packing.


    Ethan had left the country for about four days, and Brenna had been texting with him daily.


    But since yesterday, he¡¯d stopped replying.


    Sprawled on her bed, Brenna looked at the messages she¡¯d sent yesterday at noon, asking Ethan what he was eating for lunch. Last night¡¯s message checked if things were running smoothly. He hadn¡¯t replied to either. A knot twisted in her gut.


    Ethan was in trouble; she just knew it.


    .


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 Chapter 1610

    ?Chapter 1610:


    Normally, Ethan was glued to his phone, shooting back replies even if he was in the middle of an important meeting. Going dark like this? It wasn¡¯t just out of character; it was downright alien.


    Even if his phone was dead, he would have found a charger by now.


    So, Brenna¡¯s mind raced to the worst-case scenario: Ethan was in serious trouble. She tried ringing his two private numbers again¡ªboth were dead as doornails.


    Her brow creased, fingers gripping her phone, worry gnawing at her insides.


    Just as she was about to dial Neville, her phone lit up. It was Neville calling.


    She picked up, heart racing, and Neville¡¯s voice came through, thick with panic. ¡°Miss Harper!¡±


    Brenna asked quickly, ¡°Are you with Ethan? Is he okay?¡±


    Neville¡¯s tone was urgent. ¡°Miss Harper, we¡¯re not together. Three days ago, we dove into the jungle with a crew to track down Seabird¡¯s biotech research base. We got jumped, and I drew the attackers off to give Mr. Mitchell a chance to escape. We got split up. At first, we could still contact each other, but as we went deeper into the woods, we lost touch. I stuck to the nned route to find him, but he¡¯s vanished. It has been two days since he went into the jungle. His phone¡¯s dead, and even his tracking system has failed. I¡¯m really worried about him, and I don¡¯t know who I can trust to help me search for him.¡±


    The news hit like a punch to the chest. They didn¡¯t even know if Ethan was okay¡ªor even alive. Brenna¡¯s heart plummeted.


    ¡°I¡¯m heading to Norview right now,¡± she said. ¡°Send me the coordinates and keep looking for him. If you hear even a whisper about him, let me know immediately.¡±


    ¡°You let me know.¡± She tossed her phone aside after putting it on speaker and started packing her things.


    ¡°Got it,¡± Neville said, staying on the line, feeding her updates. ¡°Seabird¡¯s biotech base was set up on the down-low by Gracie¡¯s dad before he passed away. Rumor has it that they cracked a gene sequence for human longevity. Everyone in Norview¡¯s got their eyes on it. Multiple crews are already tearing through the jungle, racing to snatch the research progress.¡±


    ¡°We are talking about immortality?¡± Brenna snorted, rolling her eyes. It sounded like chasing unicorns. Big shots had been hunting the fountain of youth forever, and nobody had found it.


    Neville replied, ¡°Not exactly immortality, but word is this gene sequence could stretch human life out to about two hundred years. Pretty tempting.¡±


    Brenna still couldn¡¯t wrap her head around Ethan buying into that kind of nonsense.


    Read all updates on g¦Á?¦Ç¦Òv??ls


    ¡°Ethan believes that?¡± she asked.


    Neville hesitated for a beat. ¡°I don¡¯t think so. He figures even if life-extension tech¡¯s on the horizon, it wouldn¡¯t happen this quickly. He thinks there¡¯s something amiss, no real longevity gene. He¡¯s betting Hector¡¯s cooking up something shady. Plus, Hector has been muscling in on the Mitchell Group¡¯s turf in Norview, especially our biotech projects. He¡¯s been poaching our best people with fat stacks of cash. This mission could be make-or-break for the Mitchell Group¡¯s foothold in Norview.¡±


    After a pause, he continued, ¡°Miss Harper, it¡¯s a warzone out here. If you can find someone to help search for Mr. Mitchell, you shouldn¡¯te here in person.¡±


    He knew Ethan wouldn¡¯t want Brenna walking into a lion¡¯s den like this.


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 Chapter 1611

    ?Chapter 1611:


    Brenna¡¯s voice was firm. ¡°I¡¯m not leaving this to anyone else. Send me the coordinates. I¡¯ll get supplies lined up.¡±


    She wasn¡¯t about to waste any more time¡ªevery second counted, and she needed to find Ethan soon.


    After mulling it over, she realized the jungle was a wild card. Bringing Thiago along would give her an extrayer of security.


    Brenna dialed Gary and Felix, and as they hurried to pack, she quickly informed her parents of her trip.


    ¡°Something¡¯se up with thepany. I need to head to Norview.¡±


    She knew better than to mention the real reason¡ªif they learned she was heading into a jungle on a dangerous mission, they¡¯d never let her go.


    Giselle, fresh from a shower and already in her robe, paused by the doorway, looking puzzled. ¡°All of a sudden? Is there a problem with one of the overseas branches?¡±


    Brenna waved it off. ¡°Nothing major. Just a small hup I need to sort out. Go get some rest; I¡¯ve got this handled.¡±


    Shepard and Giselle exchanged a nce but didn¡¯t question it further. They assumed it was standard corporate trouble and left it at that.


    Soon, Brenna and Gary were on the road, speeding toward the airport to catch a 3 a.m. flight.


    While they waited for boarding, Brenna called an old contact in Norview, George Bates, asking him to prepare firearms, ammunition, and field gear.


    Gary and Felix were both excited. They had once served in special forces, veterans of multiple peacekeeping missions. Years of working quietly as security for the Harper family had dulled their adrenaline, but now, the thrill of real action stirred something alive in them again.


    Gary leaned forward with a grin toward Brenna. ¡°Miss Harper, you¡¯ve got nothing to worry about. I¡¯m a sharpshooter¡ªI can take a man down from a mile out, dead center.¡±


    Felix scoffed, crossing his arms. ¡°I¡¯m a good sniper, too, but I¡¯ve got more tricks. Drop me in the wild, I¡¯ll still walk out alive. I can tell which bugs bite, which snakes kill, and which mushrooms will poison you.¡±


    Brennaughed, shaking her head. ¡°Didn¡¯t realize I was traveling with legends. You two are surely wasted as bodyguards.¡±


    Gary rubbed the back of his neck with a sheepish grin. ¡°Well, can¡¯tin when the boss pays that well.¡±


    g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s?c§à??, your storytelling home


    Their sries weren¡¯t low¡ªhundreds of thousands of dors a month, plus bonuses and extra money during the holidays.


    Not long after, Thiago showed up, dragging a heavy suitcase behind him. He dropped it by the seats and sank down beside Brenna. ¡°So, what¡¯s the rush? What happened?¡±


    Brenna wasted no time filling the three of them in, exining Ethan¡¯s situation clearly and quickly.


    Thiago didn¡¯t hesitate¡ªhe pulled out his phone immediately and called one of his trusted contacts in Norview.


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 Chapter 1612

    ?Chapter 1612:


    When the long fifteen-hour flight finally ended, they stepped into Norview¡¯s chilly air. Waiting for them beyond the terminal were two groups of people. George was among them¡ªa burly man with a thick beard, dressed in a ck puffer jacket and a gray beanie, with his dented pickup truck parked nearby.


    ¡°Brenna! It¡¯s been forever! Took you long enough to remember me again!¡± he called out, then pulled her into a tight hug.


    A bright smile crossed Brenna¡¯s face. She had met him years ago while studying in Norview and working part-time at his bar. Back then, he had always kept an eye out for her.


    George also dabbled in arms dealing, which was why Brenna had reached out to him for gear.


    Thiago was close to George, too. He stepped forward without hesitation and pulled George into a firm hug as well.


    Nearby stood the second group¡ªThiago¡¯s contacts. They were a rough-looking band of local mercenaries, willing to take on any job as long as the pay was good.


    George motioned toward his pickup truck, ready to go pick up the gear.


    Thiago moved to a different car and unzipped his backpack. He pulled out two thick envelopes of cash and handed them to a man there. ¡°Taylor, that¡¯s the deposit. You¡¯ll get another half-million once everything¡¯s finished.¡±


    Taylor Cullen rarely wasted words. He moved with cold efficiency as he took the envelopes, checked the cash inside, and handed them to an associate in a businesslike way. ¡°Mr. Monero, where are we headed this time?¡± he asked Thiago.


    Thiago¡¯s voice stayed cool. ¡°I will give you the location soon. First, we are picking up gear. Make sure your men keep their mouths shut. If anyone leaks our ns, I will make them regret it.¡±


    Taylor gave a sharp nod. ¡°Understood. Same rules as before. Don¡¯t stress about it¡ªmy team¡¯s been through a lot with me. You can trust them.¡±


    No one needed to worry about lugging gear from the city.


    Brenna had already set things up before they had set off. George was waiting at the jungle¡¯s edge with everything they¡¯d need. All that was left was to make a quick stop and collect the supplies.


    Thiago kept things vague when he mentioned ¡°picking up gear¡± to Taylor, just to keep their ns under wraps.


    Once the city faded away behind them, Brenna checked her phone. No bars¡ªnot even a flicker of signal. She didn¡¯t panic. Instead, she pulled out a satellite phone from her bag and switched the SIM card.


    Dive into tales at g¦Á? ¦Ç¦Ò ¦Í?? ??s,


    After hours spent winding down empty roads, they reached the edge of the jungle where a lone vehicle waited.


    Each person, including Brenna, Thiago, Gary, and Felix, was handed a camouge backpack. Inside every pack sat an AK rifle with a full supply of magazines, two pistols with boxes of ammo, a handful of grenades, explosives, and an assortment of closebat weapons.


    Brenna had also insisted on medical kits, including bandages, antibiotics, and painkillers, along with enough food and water to keep them moving for days.


    A bulky duffel bagy by the rear tire, packed with extra tools.


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 Chapter 1613

    ?Chapter 1613:


    Brenna unzipped her own bag, checking the inventory with practiced eyes. Everything she¡¯d ordered was there. With a sharp nod, she shed George a quick ¡°OK¡± sign and then signaled Gary.


    Gary tossed the bag he had been holding to George.


    The bag was heavy with cash¡ªtheir payment, as promised.


    George zipped it open and grinned. ¡°Brenna, I¡¯ll be waiting here for you. Give me a call if anything goes sideways. This jungle is no joke¡ªanimals, snakes, insects, and the air¡¯s thick with poison in some ces. Keep your guard up. I prepared some gas masks for you in case you need them.¡±


    He then handed Brenna arge backpack and a big box.


    Gary hitched the new bag over his shoulder. Inside the box were the drones Brenna had requested before.


    Past that point, roads vanished. The trees grew too thick for vehicles. Everything ahead had to be crossed on foot.


    Before they started, Brenna made sure everyone was wearing their bulletproof vests. Any extrayer of protection meant a better shot at making it out alive.


    Every weapon¡ªdes and firearms alike¡ªwas slung within arm¡¯s reach, never buried at the bottom of a pack.


    After a final check, the group set off into the woods.


    Taylor¡¯s squad used Brenna¡¯s hand-drawn map to split up, with half pressing forward to scout and the others guarding their rear.


    The southern stretch of Norview¡¯s jungle stayed dense and green no matter the season, its floor scattered with tall grass and the asional animal skeleton. Not long into their trek, they came across newly dead bodies¡ªsome were adventurers dressed for a hike, but most wore the gear of mercenaries or private security.


    ¡°If the bodies are this fresh, we¡¯re on the right track,¡± Brenna said as she walked beside Thiago, her eyes scanning the ground. With each step, the body count rose. By the end of the first night, they¡¯d tallied more than twenty¡ªall killed within thest day or two.


    Worry creased Brenna¡¯s forehead. Seeing so many different uniforms meant Ethan had enemies from various groups. She wondered how many of his people had survived.


    Thiago tried to ease her worry. ¡°Don¡¯t get too concerned. Ethan¡¯s the toughest guy I know. If anyone can survive in here, it¡¯s him.¡± He paused to study the corpses, noticing not all the deaths were from bullets. Snakebites had left ugly marks, and some bodies looked chewed by crocs near the streams.


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    The jungle offered up death in every form.


    Gary¡¯s voice broke the uneasy silence. ¡°Stay alert. Don¡¯t let your guard down for a second.¡±


    Felix said, ¡°Step carefully. Don¡¯t touch anything thorny, and if you don¡¯t recognize a nt, stay away. Some of these are deadly just from a scratch.¡±


    Taylor was a bit displeased. ¡°This is more dangerous than I expected,¡± he growled to his crew. ¡°Keep your eyes open. This ce is crawling with trouble.¡±


    Though mercenary work wasn¡¯t new to them, most of Taylor¡¯s men preferred security jobs in the city. Jungle operations were rare and never easy. Infrared goggles were¡­


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 Chapter 1614

    ?Chapter 1614:


    The infrared glow hugged Taylor¡¯s face, allowing him to spot wildlife moving in the dark. Suddenly, a single gunshot ripped through the stillness.


    Taylor snapped on his goggles, scanning, but it was too far to pinpoint.


    Brenna and Thiago picked up the sound and pointed together, hands steady. ¡°It was from there¡ªsouthwest!¡±


    As the group pushed deeper into the wilderness, the trail turned grim. Corpses littered the ground, and the sound of birds and insects had all but vanished.


    Felix¡¯s knowledge saved them more than once. He could spot venomous snakes before they struck and recognized which nts could kill with ease. Because of him, they avoided more than a few nasty deaths.


    When night fell, Taylor¡¯s team took turns standing watch in pairs, keeping their camp safe. Nothing went wrong during their shifts. Even so, Gary and Felix refused to lower their guard. Hired men like Taylor¡¯s team were still strangers, and they didn¡¯t dare trust them fully. They decided to stand watch themselves, taking turns.


    The expedition went surprisingly well. Whatever creatures might have been dangerous had already fled or been killed by the earlier groups. Brenna¡¯s team came across nothing worse than monkeys swinging overhead, a few curious orangutans, and the asional snake slithering through the brush.


    By the fifth day, the distant crack of gunfire kept echoing from ahead.


    Weapons were drawn in an instant. Everyone braced themselves.


    Thiago mumbled as they advanced, ¡°Human longevity, huh? If it¡¯s such a miracle, why hide the research base in the middle of nowhere? Something¡¯s fishy.¡±


    Brenna frowned. ¡°Exactly. If you ask me, it¡¯s something far darker. Maybe a bioweapon. Something that threatens people¡¯s lives. Why else would they put the research base in a ce like this?¡±


    Thiago gave a lowugh. ¡°You know what really bugs me? Look at all these bodies. Different groups, same destination. How did so many learn about a supposedly secret project?¡±


    Brenna had thought about that, too. ¡°Right? A base this hidden should¡¯ve been impossible to find. Feels like someone wanted the secret out there.¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Wouldn¡¯t surprise me if that¡¯s the case.¡±


    Lose yourself in stories on g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s


    The gunfire ahead intensified, hammering through the jungle until Brenna¡¯s chest tightened. Her thoughts raced. Was Ethan surrounded? Out of bullets? Hurt?


    ¡°Move! Faster!¡± she shouted, pushing the group onward.


    After another thirty minutes, the shots faded into silence. When they broke through thest line of trees, a massive clearing opened before them. The jungle floor had been stripped bare, a space wide enough for a dozen football fields. The grass was gone, the earth trampled t.


    A line of gray concrete buildings stood clustered together in the open, about thirty in total. The ce reeked of death, with bodies scattered across the dirt, many dressed differently¡ªproof they belonged to rival factions.


    Brenna¡¯s gaze swept over the corpses, searching every face. No sign of Ethan. She wasn¡¯t sure if he had ever made it this far, but if he was still breathing, this ce had to be where he¡¯d end up.


    ¡°Stay alert!¡± she and Thiago shouted at the same time.


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 Chapter 1615

    Chapter 1615:


    The group advanced slowly, gripping their rifles tight, their nerves pulled taut. Every crunch of soil sounded too loud.


    Taylor¡¯s team split off to the sides, taking the front and rear positions to protect Brenna and the others.


    They crouched by the entrance instead of barging in, waiting for Brenna¡¯s signal.


    Above them, a broken security camera dangled from its wire, its lens shattered¡ªsomeone had shot it out long before they arrived.


    They couldn¡¯t guess what waited inside, and Brenna¡¯s worry for Ethan twisted in her chest.


    She unzipped her backpack and took out apact metal machine¡ªa prototype recon dog she¡¯d built for military use, not yet delivered to the military.


    With steady fingers, she powered it on, switched the infrared disy, and attached a loaded rifle to its mount.


    Taylor, who¡¯d been about to scout ahead, gaped. ¡°What the hell is that thing?¡±


    Thiago answered for Brenna, ¡°Scout dog.¡± The robot padded forward under Brenna¡¯s control. Its feed disyed four armed men ahead in the courtyard. The glowing heat outlines on her tablet proved they were carrying weapons¡ªone group before must¡¯ve seized control of the area.


    Bodies were scattered all around. The moment the robot crossed into view, the men noticed it and were ready to shoot.


    But the machine reacted faster. It didn¡¯t needmands. Four clean shots, four kills¡ªall to the head.


    No one spoke for a long moment. Everyone, except Brenna, stood frozen, stunned by what they¡¯d seen.


    Thiago eximed, ¡°That thing¡¯s insane! I¡¯m definitely getting one in the future.¡±


    Gunfire crackled in the courtyard, sending everyone inside into a panic. A few guards emerged, but the robot dog was fast¡ªit killed them before they even aimed.


    That machine was nothing short of lethal.


    No one else dared step into the open after that. Peering around the doorway, Brenna and her squad took stock. The courtyardy empty, but there was no telling how many opponents were waiting just out of sight. Rushing in without a n would be like asking for a death sentence. Brenna directed the robot dog forward, watching as it darted into the main building.


    A barrage of gunfire greeted it, but the dog¡¯s metal body barely flinched. If it had been flesh and blood, it would have been obliterated right then and there.


    Explore captivating tales on  .


    The machine¡¯s sensors locked onto every person inside, and it reacted with clean, unerring shots¡ªeach bullet finding its mark. Brenna followed the action through the high-definition camera. The central hall was packed¡ªat least a couple dozen hostiles, plus a cluster of kneeling figures inb coats, their wrists zip-tied behind their backs. Judging by their outfits, they had to be the research team.


    With the robot dog taking all the heat, Brenna motioned for Thiago. This was their chance to go in.


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    .<hr>


    Message from Noah: Have a wonderful weekend, lovely people. God loves you, and Noah wishes you all the best. (? ?? ? ¨C ? ) ?


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    .

 Chapter 1616

    ?Chapter 1616:


    But as she scanned the feed, there was still no sign of Ethan, Neville, or Rex. One unexpected face did appear: Gracie.


    Brenna¡¯s eyes went wide. ¡°Why in the world is Gracie mixed up in this?¡±


    Thiago didn¡¯t even blink. ¡°She¡¯s not our problem today.¡±


    Brenna nodded. She didn¡¯t care about Gracie at all.


    No point risking the mission for someone who didn¡¯t matter.


    The robot dog unleashed another volley, mowing down reinforcements. The defenders fought back hard¡ªone managed to lob a grenade, and the robot dog went down in a ball of fire.


    ¡°Time to move!¡±


    Brenna knew the enemy would be searching for whoever controlled that dog any second.


    She and Thiago split off, each signaling their team to nk from different directions. Their goal was clear: find Ethan.


    As soon as they turned the corner, a flood of enemies burst from the building.


    Brenna and her team had slipped through a ragged hole in the wall¡ªa scar left by thest round of explosions.


    They hugged the shadows, keeping low and quiet as they navigated the side of a neighboring structure.


    Their pursuers soon caught sight of them and attacked, but Taylor took them out quickly, dropping three in an instant.


    Fresh footsteps echoed as more enemies approached, but just then, a shrill whistle cut through the chaos, calling the rest of the gunmen back toward the main hall.


    Gary leaned in, voice tense. ¡°Ms. Harper, I think something¡¯s going down over there!¡± He had just finished speaking when the sound of gunfire erupted from inside the main building. Taylor scouted ahead and found a door, booting it open to reveal an empty room.


    From the window, they caught a glimpse of the central structure just as an explosion ripped through it, rattling the ground beneath their feet. The force shattered windows all around, mes licking up into the sky and filling the air with the reek of burning chemicals.


    ¡°Gas masks¡ªnow!¡± Brennamanded. Everyone moved fast, pulling masks over their faces as acrid smoke billowed closer.


    Watching the inferno consume the main building, Brenna knew nothing alive could survive that ze.


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    The building they were in wasn¡¯t spared; deep cracks split the walls, and dust rained down from the ceiling.


    ¡°We need to leave now!¡± Brenna led the charge, retracing their path out of the dangerous zone. Outside, they found the perimeter wall and gate demolished, just rubble left behind after the st.


    Thiago rushed over, breathless, his team in tow.


    ¡°We¡¯ve found Ethan!¡±


    Ethan let out a weary sigh and spoke with a voice carrying a trace of regret. ¡°Nope. He¡¯s not dead. It was just his hologram strutting around. It looks real, but it¡¯s not.¡±


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1617

    ?Chapter 1617:


    Brenna¡¯s expression turned cold. ¡°He tried to kill you and got away with it.¡±


    She had worked with Hector before, but finding out he had gone after Ethan, despite their past dealings, crossed a line she couldn¡¯t ignore. From now on, she knew she was finished doing business with him.


    The man had no conscience. He chased dirty money, cut corners, and scammed people without a flicker of remorse. Partnering with someone like him dragged her own principles straight into the mud.


    Gracie fumed silently, her steps uneven as Neville supported her. She was injured, yet Ethan hadn¡¯t even offered to carry her or steady her. He¡¯d simply passed her off to his subordinate, as if she were some burden to be managed. What was that about? Weren¡¯t they supposed to be friends?


    Sure, Neville was taking care of her well, but it wasn¡¯t his arm she wanted around her. What she wanted was Ethan¡¯s attention.


    She watched Ethan walking ahead, chatting easily with Brenna as though no one else in the world existed.


    If Brenna weren¡¯t in the picture, Ethan would have seen her differently. He would¡¯ve fallen for her.


    The jungle was merciless. Wild animals prowled unseen, and venomous snakes slithered out from the tall grass without warning. idents here weren¡¯t unusual, and only the sharpest survived.


    A cold gleam flickered in Gracie¡¯s eyes when she thought about that. This was her chance to get rid of Brenna.


    As she listened to Ethan and Brenna talking about Hector, she interjected, ¡°Hector¡¯s meticulous. He never takes unnecessary risks. With the kind of man he is, after you wrecked his big n, there¡¯s no way he¡¯ll just let it go. He might have already sent people to kill us.¡±


    Ethan barely looked her way. ¡°He doesn¡¯t have the capability to kill us.¡±


    Brenna also didn¡¯t look the least bit concerned. She knew the jungle well enough to understand that sheer numbers meant little out here.


    But Gracie wasn¡¯t convinced and said, ¡°We should still watch our backs. Hector is ruthless. You saw how close we came to dying earlier, Ethan.¡±


    Ethan stopped walking and turned sharply toward her. ¡°If you hadn¡¯t shown up and messed things up, I¡¯d have taken those guys out already. You brought a team, sure. But they just slowed me down. And you? You got yourself caught as a hostage.¡±


    Gracie¡¯s heart sank at the sharp edge in Ethan¡¯s voice. The sting of his words mingled with the throbbing pain in her arm until she couldn¡¯t hold it in any longer. Tears welled up and streamed down her cheeks.


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    ¡°Ethan, I¡¯m hurt,¡± she cried, her voice trembling. ¡°I¡¯m in pain.¡±


    Thiago nced over his shoulder and saw how pitiful Gracie looked. Still, there was no sympathy in his eyes. To him, she¡¯d brought this on herself.


    Brenna turned as well. Her gaze settled on the gash on Gracie¡¯s arm. Blood had seeped through the bandage. The wound needed immediate treatment.


    They pressed on until they were far from the explosion site. When they finally stopped, Brenna set her backpack down, unzipped it briskly, and pulled out the medical kit. ¡°Sit still. I¡¯ll patch you up,¡± she said to Gracie.


    Ethan stood a few steps away, his gaze fixed on the dense stretch of jungle ahead. Gracie¡¯s chest tightened when she saw that. She had hoped, just a little, that he might turn back, offer a word offort, or even help treat her wound. But he didn¡¯t.


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1618

    ?Chapter 1618:


    Neville stepped in instead. He steadied her by the shoulders and guided her toward a fallen log. Once she was seated, he walked away to join Ethan and scanned the area for any lingering danger.


    Brenna, crouched beside the first-aid kit, didn¡¯t miss the flicker of disappointment that crossed Gracie¡¯s face. She knew Gracie wanted Ethan¡¯s attention.


    Honestly, she believed Gracie was pathetic. Twice married and still chasing after Ethan like some lovesick teenager?


    It was absurd.


    ¡°I¡¯m a doctor. No one in this crew¡¯s better suited than me to fix you up,¡± Brenna said to Gracie.


    Gracie didn¡¯t bother to respond. As Brenna worked, Gracie¡¯s gaze kept drifting toward Ethan. She swore silently that she would find a way to get Brenna out of the picture for good this time.


    Before long, Brenna tied off the bandage neatly. The bleeding had stopped, and the pain had dulled to a faint throb. Gracie felt a lot better.


    Brenna handed Gracie a small packet of food and a bottle of water. Though it was only six in the evening, the dense canopy overhead swallowed most of the light. The jungle already felt like it was sinking into the night.


    A few meters away, Thiago and his team were busy gathering dry branches and stacking them neatly to build a fire pit, circled with stones.


    Ethan, Neville, and Rex had used up their food, water, and ammo in the fight before. Brenna and the others shared what they had left with them until everyone had just enough to make it through the night.


    At around eight in the evening, Brenna stood up, then slipped away into the trees for a moment of privacy. Gracie¡¯s eyes followed her. She believed this was her chance to kill Brenna.


    Catching onto Brenna¡¯s n, Gracie still called out, ¡°Hey, Brenna, where are you off to?¡±


    Brenna didn¡¯t break stride. ¡°Just need to pee,¡± she said over her shoulder, her face unreadable. ¡°Youing with?¡±


    With only two women in the mix, nobody thought twice about them heading out together. Gracie nodded and stood up.


    Ethan, who¡¯d been sitting right next to Brenna, stood up, too. ¡°I¡¯ming with you, Brenna.¡±


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    That made Gracie pause. She shot him a look. ¡°Seriously, Ethan? Isn¡¯t it a bit weird for a guy like you to tag along?¡±


    Ethan was unfazed. He wasn¡¯t worried about etiquette; he was concerned about Brenna¡¯s safety. ¡°You can¡¯t fight, Gracie. If something goes wrong, Brenna¡¯s the one who¡¯d have to protect you. I need toe along and help her.¡± He might as well have said he only cared about Brenna.


    Gracie¡¯s heart sank when she heard that.


    Still, she tried to argue, her voice tight. ¡°We¡¯re not going far; it¡¯ll be quick. It¡¯s just awkward with you tagging along. That¡¯s all,¡± she said. How was she supposed to make a move with Ethan breathing down her neck?


    Ethan met her gaze, looking calm. ¡°Brenna and I are getting married soon, Gracie. What¡¯s awkward about it? If you¡¯re notfortable, you can wait and goter.¡±


    The rest of the group exchanged looks but wisely kept their mouths shut.


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1619

    ?Chapter 1619:


    Ethan didn¡¯t care what anyone else thought; as far as he was concerned, Brenna¡¯s safety came first.


    Resigned, Gracie sat back down. ¡°Fine. You two go ahead.¡±


    There went her golden opportunity to kill Brenna. What a pity.


    But Gracie wasn¡¯t the type to give up easily. Four days of jungle left plenty of room for a second shot. She believed there was no way Brenna and Ethan would be by each other¡¯s side the whole time.


    Gary and Felix kept a few paces back, staying on high alert as they scanned for threats and covered Brenna from behind. Even with so many enemies taken out, they believed that danger might still be waiting for the right moment.


    Internally, Gracie cursed her rotten luck, her frustration building.


    Her mercenary crew had been wiped out. Most had died during the first assault, and Hector¡¯s men had finished off the rest after she had been captured.


    Now, if she wanted to eliminate Brenna, she¡¯d have to rely entirely on herself.


    Days of hiking through tangled underbrush left the whole group exhausted, and Gracie¡¯s wound slowed her the most. She came down with a fever, shivering and weak. She didn¡¯t have the energy to kill Brenna.


    Meanwhile, Brenna, the target of her hatred, ended up treating her and taking care of her.


    On the jungle¡¯s edge atst, Brenna searched for George, who had promised to meet them there. But he was nowhere to be seen, and Brenna couldn¡¯t reach him.


    Taylor¡¯s vehicles still sat where they¡¯d been left, but hope faded instantly¡ªboth gas tanks were punctured and dry, blood and shell casings scattered all around, tire tracks crisscrossing the mud. Something had clearly happened to George and his team.


    Brenna¡¯s nerves spiked as she realized something bad had happened.


    Taylor took his men to search the clearing, reporting back with even more grim details¡ªfresh tire ruts, more blood, abandoned weapons. With no vehicles, the group faced a hard choice: leave here on foot or wait for rescue. The team gathered, tension running high as they tried to figure out what to do next.


    Ethan¡¯s brow furrowed. ¡°We can¡¯t stick around. Someone¡¯s watching us. Let¡¯s leave here quickly.¡±


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    Taylor agreed, giving Ethan a serious look. ¡°Could be Hector¡¯s crew tracking us. Still, I have a question. Why was Hector holding all those researchers hostage earlier? I thought they were his people.¡±


    Ethan didn¡¯t hesitate. ¡°Someone on the inside leaked the location of the research base. And Hector decided to kill them all.¡±


    Suddenly, a gunshot rang out¡ªa sharp, deadly sound. Taylor fell instantly, a bullet in his head. Instincts kicked in as everyone moved, diving for cover behind the battered trucks. Brenna huddled beside Ethan, her heart pounding.


    In a hushed voice, she said, ¡°If Taylor hadn¡¯t been there, that bullet would¡¯ve hit you.¡±


    A hail of bullets ripped through the slowest mercenaries, dropping them where they stood. In less than half a minute, nearly a third of the squad was gone.


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1620

    ?Chapter 1620:


    A pair of soldiers cried out as bullets tore through their legs, sending them sprawling into the mud. Automatic fire hammered down from the tree line, forcing everyone to press t behind whatever little cover they could find.


    Face pressed to the earth, Gary swept his infrared scope across the dense undergrowth and picked out a cluster of moving shapes. He steadied his grip on the sniper rifle, his voice cold. ¡°I¡¯ve got a visual. Cover me; I¡¯ll take them down.¡±


    Most of the crew wore infrared goggles too, so they could make out the enemy positions. Still, the suppressing fire was so fierce that no one dared peek above the barricades. Anyone who tried could immediately end up getting shot.


    Neville had Brenna¡¯s pack tucked at his feet as he crouched behind another armored truck.


    ¡°Throw me my bag, Neville!¡± Brenna yelled.


    Neville didn¡¯t hesitate. He flung the bag toward her.


    Brenna caught it and unzipped it, revealing a sleek metal case about a foot long.


    Gunfire poured in as the enemy pushed harder, aiming to rip the vehicles apart.


    Inside the box sat four small spheres, each about ten centimeters wide, now exposed after Brenna lifted the lid.


    She pressed a button, and one started to whir softly in her palm.


    Everyone was curious. ¡°What do you have there?¡±


    Brenna grinned. ¡°These are my helpers. Mini gas grenades. Each one¡¯s loaded with ten pellets. The gas knocks out anyone in a fifty-meter radius; no one¡¯s getting hurt, just put to sleep for hours.¡±


    A wave of excitement rippled through the group. Even Ethan, usually calm, raised his eyebrows in admiration. ¡°That¡¯s genius. Did you make these yourself?¡±


    Brenna gave a quick nod. ¡°Yeah. I came up with the design a while back when I was working on fighter jets. I drew up the schematics for fun, and the military liked them enough to make a few. I never expected to actually use them.¡±


    With practiced aim, she tossed one of the spheres toward the brush at the jungle¡¯s edge, then pulled out her phone, her thumb flying across the screen, controlling it.


    The device zipped across the clearing, its movement hidden by the tangle of grass. In just a couple of minutes, it had reached the enemy¡¯s position.


    Brenna tapped a button. Momentster, silence fell as the gunfire stopped.


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    Gary let out a wild whoop and dove right back into the action, expertly dropping enemies with his sniper as red outlines flickered through his scope.


    Brenna and the others joined in.


    Thanks to the gas grenades, the fight was over in five minutes.


    While others scoured the area for stragglers and secured the perimeter, Brenna knelt beside the injured, tending to bloody wounds with practiced hands.


    On the sidelines, Gracie sat shivering and sweating, her eyes locked on Brenna¡¯s steady work. Quietly, she slid her fingers to her holster. In a single swift motion, she drew her pistol and aimed it at Brenna¡¯s back.


    Brenna was too focused on stitching up the wound to sense the danger behind her.


    Gary hovered nearby, always keeping an eye out for trouble. He spotted Gracie¡¯s movement just in time and threw himself toward Brenna, shielding her with his body.


    But no shots rang out.


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1621

    ?Chapter 1621:


    Gracie squeezed the trigger three times, only then realizing the chamber was empty.


    For a moment, embarrassment colored her face. She froze, not knowing how to exin her actions.


    With a fluid motion, Gary drew his weapon, pressing it straight at her forehead.


    Shaken by Gary¡¯s sudden lunge, Brenna tumbled against her patient. She then turned around to find Gracie, aiming a gun at her.


    Brenna¡¯s cold voice cut through the tension. ¡°So, you were going to shoot me in the back, Gracie?¡±


    ¡°N-no, wait! You¡¯ve got it wrong!¡± Gracie stammered. ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to do that!¡±


    Gary¡¯s re could have burned a hole through Gracie, his finger tight on the trigger. ¡°You really want to y innocent? I watched you line up the shot. Three times you pulled that trigger. After all Brenna has done for you, this is how you thank her?¡±


    Desperate, Gracie¡¯s voice cracked. ¡°Don¡¯t shoot! Please, Gary, don¡¯t! Brenna, I¡¯m begging you. I didn¡¯t mean any harm. I swear!¡±


    ¡°Save it!¡± Gary snapped, giving her a hard shove with his boot. He really wanted to kill her right then and there.


    Trembling, Gracie kept pleading, her eyes wide with panic. ¡°Spare me! Brenna¡¯s okay, isn¡¯t she?¡±


    Brenna stared at her, her gaze icy. ¡°This is it, Gracie. You¡¯re on your own now. Don¡¯t follow us, and don¡¯t expect any more help from us.¡±


    Shivering with fear, Gracie recoiled, vehemently denying any wrongdoing. ¡°It wasn¡¯t what you thought! You¡¯repletely mistaken.¡±


    Considering Gracie¡¯s feverish condition, Brenna chose not to end her life but ensured she faced repercussions.


    Gary, unyielding and merciless, refused to show leniency. Seizing Gracie by the hair, he pulled her to the roadside, unleashing a barrage of brutal punches and kicks.


    Gracie¡¯s agonized cries drew Ethan¡¯s attention.


    ¡°What¡¯s happening here?¡± he asked, yanking Gary away. ¡°Why are you beating her up?¡±


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    Ethan knew Gary, Brenna¡¯s fiercely loyal bodyguard, would never act without cause, always prioritizing Brenna¡¯s safety.


    Gracie, sobbing uncontrobly, crawled to clutch Ethan¡¯s leg. ¡°Ethan, he¡¯s trying to kill me! I didn¡¯t do anything wrong, and you know I saved your life before¡­¡±


    Gary¡¯s icy stare pierced her as he revealed the truth to Ethan, saying, ¡°Mr. Mitchell, she tried to kill Miss Harper. Her gun was empty, or Miss Harper would be dead by now. She¡¯s a cunning viper. If we keep her around, she will strike again. We¡¯re leaving her here to survive on her own.¡±


    He looked at Ethan, his eyes firm. ¡°If you pity her, you can stay with her.¡±


    Stunned that Gracie had tried to kill Brenna, Ethan shook his head in disappointment. ¡°I don¡¯t pity her at all.¡±


    He then freed himself from Gracie¡¯s grasp and walked away, his loyalty to Brenna unwavering. Gracie screamed after him, ¡°Ethan, you can¡¯t abandon me! I saved your life before; you¡¯re indebted to me forever! If you leave me here, I¡¯ll die!¡±


    But Ethan was already out of sight.


    .


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 Chapter 1622

    ?Chapter 1622:


    The group discovered five vehicles two hundred meters into the dense jungle. Ethan ordered the group to take all the cars, leaving none for Gracie.


    Since Gracie was bold enough to go after Brenna, she would face severe consequences; her survival was left to chance.


    Brenna bandaged the two injured men, and the group left the area, taking the dead mercenaries¡¯ bodies for their families.


    Gracie, alone, staggered along the deste highway. Her fever raged, her body frail and burning.


    Convinced death was near and unable to walk any further, she copsed by the road, awaiting her end.


    Eventually, she passed out.


    Yet, when she awoke, she found herself in a soft, warm bed, an IV dripping above her. Tears of relief poured down; she couldn¡¯t fathom who had rescued her.


    She felt her strength slowly return. She was happy that she was still alive.


    Who could have saved her?


    She pondered, and only one name came to mind¡ªHector. No one else would have ventured to that dangerous ce.


    The thought sent shivers down her spine.


    Hector was sly, ruthless, and unpredictable. Back in Plomond, during her marriage to Waldo, Hector had even boldly proposed remarriage in front of her husband.


    She remained baffled by his intentions.


    Terror seized Gracie at the thought of him. She ripped out the IV, flung off the nkets, and bolted to the door.


    When she opened it, she spotted a tall, lean man in the living room, legs crossed, smoking a cigarette.


    It was indeed Hector.


    She dashed back, mming the door shut, and rushed to the window, only to see they were high in a towering building in a vibrant city, cars streaming below on a broad street.


    This ce was probably a hotel.


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    Just as Gracie was contemting her escape, Hector entered the room with a faint smile on his face. ¡°Gracie, why did you run away after you saw me?¡±


    ¡°Following our separation, I miss you daily, Gracie¡ªyou must know that. Among all the women I¡¯ve known, none matches your skills in bed; you¡¯re unmatched. I deeply regret letting you go. Let¡¯s remarry. Behave, and I promise never to hit you again, okay?¡±


    Hector¡¯s breath,ced with whiskey and cigarette smoke, exuded a menacing aura. His sharp, predatory eyes fixated on Gracie¡¯s face, marked by scratches from dense forest undergrowth. Her vulnerable, injured appearance only intensified his desire to control her.


    Seizing her hair, he yanked her toward the mattress and forcefully stripped off her jacket.


    Gracie was paralyzed with fear. Her past experiences had silenced her resistance¡ªshe knew defiance only brought brutal beatings. During their marriage, Hector¡¯s cruel behavior in the bedroom had often left her incapacitated for days.


    She dared not challenge his violent nature. ¡°Please, I¡¯m injured. Can we wait until I¡¯m better?¡± she begged softly.


    .


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 Chapter 1623

    ?Chapter 1623:


    But her pleas only heightened Hector¡¯s excitement. In moments, he tore her clothes to shreds, his gaze glinting at the sight of her bandaged arm.


    ¡°Do as I say and keep me satisfied, understood?¡± he said.


    Gracie knew exactly what Hector meant. She moaned loudly, ying the role he demanded.


    Hector went on for three hours before finally stopping.


    As always, Gracie helped clean him up, a humiliating ritual that fed his perverse sense of triumph. Since their divorce, Hector had never recaptured the same thrill.


    He exhaled, thoroughly content.


    Once dressed, he resumed his slick businessman facade. As he left, he said to his men outside, ¡°Feed her and maintain her medical care.¡±


    Alone again, Gracie frantically searched the room for something to use as a weapon¡ªa gun, a knife, or any sharp object. Yet she found nothing.


    Without a way to kill Hector instantly, she couldn¡¯t risk an attempt.


    She had not forgotten her father¡¯s horrific death at Hector¡¯s hands, and although she longed to end him, shecked the ability to do so.


    Injured and frail, surrounded by his guards, she doubted she would ever escape.


    Tears of hopelessness streamed down her face as despair settled over her imprisonment. A nurse arrived to manage her IV, and a servant delivered food before departing silently.


    Gracie assumed Hector would not disturb her again today. She ate and soon sank into a deep slumber, waking at eight in the evening.


    The IV was gone, removed while she had been sleeping.


    There was no phone. She knew Hector would never allow her to contact the outside world. Unable to fall asleep again, she stared at the ceiling, lost in thought.


    Around one in the morning, Hector staggered in, utterly intoxicated and barely coherent. Yet even in his drunken stupor, his primal urges surged, and he lunged at Gracie.


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    Gracieplied, not daring to resist, even with him drunk.


    This time, however, Hector passed out mid-act. Gracie nudged him and called his name, but he remained unconscious.


    Seeing him like this, a murderous impulse surged within her. Memories of her father¡¯s gruesome death and her family¡¯s financial ruin flooded back. She could no longer contain her anger.


    Grabbing a pillow, she pressed it over his face, her hands trembling.


    She had made her decision. Escape was impossible, so she would kill him, even if it cost her life. It was better than enduring his sadistic torment day after day.


    She was prepared to sacrifice everything. Gracie pressed harder, cutting off his air, bracing herself for him to wake and kill her. But Hector did not move, oblivious to his suffocation.


    One minute passed, then two.


    It felt like an eternity. Finally, Hectorypletely motionless.


    Gracie knew that after what she¡¯d done to Hector, his family would eventually find her and kill her.


    .


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    .

 Chapter 1624

    ?Chapter 1624:


    The thought of being captured and tortured to death was unbearable. She¡¯d rather take her own life now than let them have the satisfaction.


    She opened the window and looked down; she was on the tenth floor.


    Jumping would mean certain death.


    But she was determined not to be tormented by Hector¡¯s family.


    Eyes closed, heart pounding, she jumped out the window.


    Her body mmed onto the roof of a truck just as it rumbled past.


    Meanwhile, in Santero, Norview¡¯s bustling second city, Brenna and Ethan were staying at the Empire Hotel.


    The city served as the home base for the Mitchell Group¡¯s most vital branch, and it was Ethan¡¯s responsibility to keep it running. His task was to protect QuickVibe, their crown jewel, a short-video tform that ruled seventy percent of the local market.


    Trouble had started six months ago, when Hector had muscled into the scene, pulling together his own crew andunching a copycat ¡°Will You Be There¡± app.


    Because of that, profits at QuickVibe had started to dip. Ethan hade here to turn things around.


    Word of his mission had reached Gracie. She had gotten close to one of Hector¡¯s engineers, whose brother happened to work at a remote bib. After a few drinks, the engineer let slip a juicy secret¡ªtheb was developing a wonder drug that could make people live for two centuries.


    Gracie had wasted no time spreading the news. A promise of a two-hundred-year life span sent Norview¡¯s investors into a frenzy. Some people even risked their own necks to hunt for the drug deep in the jungle.


    Ethan spent the morning huddled with his local team, tossing around ideas to outwit thepetition and restore QuickVibe¡¯s dominance.


    Aldred Carman, Ethan¡¯s subordinate, spoke up from across the table. ¡°Ethan, what if we just ditch the paywall? People love free stuff. We¡¯d draw in more users, and we can always make money somewhere else.¡±


    Ethan nodded thoughtfully. ¡°There¡¯s merit to that. We could make premium features free for everyone, but pivot our business model to focus on ads. Let¡¯s start charging brands who want their content front and center. Our ad tform is already up and running, but I want something new¡ªsomething that keeps users happy and also draws in advertisers. Pitch me your best ideas.¡±


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    Ideas bounced around the room for hours, and by nightfall, a rough strategy had taken shape.


    Brenna spent three days reconnecting with friends, then hopped a flight back to Vand on day four.


    The sun was setting by the time she walked into the Harper home, where the whole family had gathered for dinner.


    Sandra could barely contain her excitement. ¡°Everyone¡ªlisten up! Tomorrow is a big day for me. Both of my shops are finally opening.¡±


    Dalton, looking weary from a grueling film schedule, hardly nced up. ¡°Okay,¡± he murmured casually.


    Brenna, still running on travel fatigue, didn¡¯t really register the news.


    Ernst and Lilith, wiped out after a day of meeting people, seemed equally distracted. With no one exactly jumping for joy, Sandra cleared her throat and tried again.


    .


    .


    .

 Chapter 1625

    ?Chapter 1625:


    ¡°It¡¯d mean a lot if you could make it to the opening ceremony. I¡¯ve got influencers lined up for some promo videos, but I could use your help getting people¡¯s attention.¡±


    Her voice carried a mix of hope and nerves.


    Dalton shot her a sideways nce, doubt flickering in his eyes. His status could easily send her tiny shop into the spotlight, but could her small shops handle that much attention? Banking on Dalton¡¯s poprity, Sandra said,


    ¡°Dalton, what do you say? Will you be there?¡±


    Sandra locked eyes with Dalton, the air between them heavy with silence.


    She could tell his quiet meant he wasn¡¯t on board. But Dalton¡¯s clout was undeniable. If he helped hype her stores, they¡¯d be an overnight sensation.


    A pang of disappointment hit Sandra hard. She¡¯d been nning for days to win over the Harpers at this dinner. Their help was her ticket to sess.


    Building her business from the ground up with her own connections? That would take forever.


    Why not lean on her family¡¯s influence?


    Even if the Harpers weren¡¯t jumping at the chance to pitch in, she¡¯d swallow her pride and plead her case.


    Gathering her courage, she nced around the table. Everyone was either eating or buried in their phones, looking like they didn¡¯t hear her pitch.


    A mix of hope and frustration bubbled up inside her.


    She needed the Harper family, so no matter how reluctant she was, she had to suck up to them. She set her fork down, and her eyes welled up. She let out a soft sob. It wasn¡¯t all for show; the Harpers¡¯ cold shoulder genuinely cut deep.


    ¡°Dalton, I know you¡¯re not thrilled about helping me, considering me as some outsider. But I swear, you¡¯re all family to me. Doesn¡¯t family help each other? You¡¯re all sessful, but I¡¯m stuck with nothing to my name. I just want a shot to prove myself. Please, just this once, help me. I¡¯ll design some outfits for you for free¡ªhow¡¯s that for a deal?¡± she said.


    No one saw Sandra¡¯s desperate pleaing. But then again, hadn¡¯t she been up at dawn cooking breakfast for everyone to curry favor before?


    She would bend over backward to win them over.


    Read the rest on g??l????¦Í????s?.?o??


    Eyes flicked Sandra¡¯s way, and Shepard felt a twinge of guilt gnaw at him.


    He shot a look at Dalton.


    Feeling the heat, Dalton hesitated before saying, ¡°I¡¯m in the public eye, Sandra. It¡¯s not a good match. If I promote your stores and your stuff doesn¡¯t hold up, the blowback¡¯s on me. I need to be careful. You get that, right?¡±


    Sandra believed he had a point, but she was unwilling to give up. ¡°The brand I¡¯m carrying is top-notch¡ªgreat quality, killer style. I¡¯m not asking you to say a word. Just show up at my grand opening and stay for a bit. That¡¯s all I need!¡±


    Dalton¡¯s patience was wearing thin. He didn¡¯t like Sandra, and helping her was thest thing he wanted.


    ¡°Please?¡± Sandra added.


    Dalton eventually replied, ¡°Sorry.¡±


    Tears streamed down Sandra¡¯s cheeks.


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 Chapter 1626

    ?Chapter 1626:


    Shepard understood where Dalton wasing from. Climbing to the top as an actor was no cakewalk; Dalton had to guard his reputation.


    While Shepard and Ernst didn¡¯t have Dalton¡¯s star power, Shepard still carried weight in Shirie. ¡°Sandra, I¡¯ll show up with Ernst to back you,¡± Shepard suggested.


    Sandra looked at him, gratitude shining through her tears. ¡°Thanks, Dad.¡±


    Her gaze darted back to Dalton, still holding out hope he¡¯d change his mind.


    Dalton wasn¡¯t a regr at family dinners. On set, he always stuck to lean meals¡ªveggies, fruit, nothing heavy.


    So at home, his appetite roared, but he kept it in check to stay camera-ready.


    After eating just enough, he pushed his te away. ¡°I¡¯m full.¡±


    He then nced at Brenna and headed upstairs. Once he was out of earshot, Shepard said to Sandra, ¡°It¡¯s not that Dalton¡¯s being cold to you. His influence is massive¡ªtens of millions of fans. Even in Shirie, he¡¯s got over a million followers. That kind of spotlight could swamp your stores. If he goes there and you¡¯re not ready for the flood, it¡¯s trouble for you and a bigger mess for him. Try to understand him; don¡¯t take it personally.¡±


    Sandra nodded, still feeling a little aggrieved. ¡°Okay, Dad, I get it. But if Dalton can¡¯t make it to my store in person, could he at least give it a shout-out online? His circle is full of celebrities, their managers¡ªpeople who live and breathe designer fashion. They could easily be my clients. Would that be okay?¡±


    Shepard smiled reassuringly. ¡°Of course. We¡¯ll all hype you up on social media. You¡¯ve got our support.¡±


    Sandra exhaled quietly, her chest tightening. Family loyalty ran deep, but only when the bloodline matched.


    Her gaze drifted toward Brenna, who was quietly eating, not offering a word of help. The thought pricked at her. Maybe siblings without shared blood were just bound to stay on opposite sides.


    It was even worse with half-siblings¡ªsame father, different mothers. All rivalry, no real bond. As for mutual support, that was just a fairy tale.


    Brenna felt Sandra¡¯s eyes on her and finally spoke up. ¡°I¡¯ll be there for your grand opening, and I¡¯ll post about it, too.¡±


    ¡°Thanks,¡± Sandra said with a polite smile. ¡°You were abroad for quite a while. Was it a business trip?¡±


    Explore more on g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s©q??????


    ¡°Yeah,¡± Brenna lied lightly, her tone easy. ¡°Had to take care of some things at the subsidiary. It dragged on longer than I thought. Oh, and I brought back gifts for everyone.¡±


    Of course, she wasn¡¯t about to mention her jungle expedition. Thest thing she wanted was the family worrying about her.


    She¡¯d also told Gary and Felix to keep quiet about the matter.


    They had been through enough on that trip, and she had made sure their bonuses showed her appreciation.


    After dinner, Brenna went upstairs. Dalton was lounging in the third-floor sitting room, grinning from ear to ear as he waved her over.


    ¡°Dalton, I saw your new movie while I was abroad¡ªit was fantastic!¡± Brenna said, plopping down beside him, sensing he had something to say to her.


    ¡°Thanks for the support¡ªyou¡¯re boosting my box office,¡± Dalton joked with a grin. He picked up a box beside him and handed it over to Brenna. ¡°Remember that unmannedbat drone you designed for the military? You said it looked like the prop in my movie Space Lodge.


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 Chapter 1627

    ?Chapter 1627:


    Turns out, the prop was modeled after the real thing from Orwall¡¯s tech division. I called in a few favors with the producer and got permission to borrow it for a few days. You can use it for a while.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s eyes lit up instantly. ¡°No way! You actually got your hands on that? That¡¯s insane, Dalton. Thanks a lot!¡±


    As the two chatted, Ernst and Lilith walked over. Ernst dropped into the seat across from Brenna, his face grave. ¡°You didn¡¯t actually go to Plieca, did you?¡±


    Brenna gave him a nce, then admitted, ¡°Busted. Nope, I didn¡¯t.¡±


    Ernst frowned. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me what was going on? I could¡¯ve helped. You went off chasing Ethan all by yourself¡ªwhat if something had happened? We worked so hard to bring you back into the family, and you¡¯re out there acting like a lone wolf again.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t do something like that again,¡± Brenna said with a casual wave. ¡°Now, quit frowning¡ªthere¡¯s a stash of snacks and chocte in my suitcase downstairs. Go and split them among you.¡±


    Then, she tugged Lilith down to sit beside her, her gaze dropping to the woman¡¯s stomach. ¡°So, it¡¯s true¡ªyou¡¯ve got a little one on the way?¡±


    Lilith¡¯s face lit up with joy. ¡°Yeah. You¡¯re about to be an aunt now.¡±


    Dalton blinked, confused, turning to Ernst. ¡°Hold up¡ªwhat exactly did Brenna do?¡±


    Ernst sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. ¡°Ethan went to Norview and dropped off the map. And instead of looping anyone in, Brenna just flew there to look for him. We¡¯ve got family members and contacts in Norview who could¡¯ve helped her, but she didn¡¯t even tell us about the matter.¡±


    Dalton¡¯s expression shifted. ¡°Ethan went missing? Was he in danger? Is he alright now? Brenna,e on¡ªsomething that serious, and you didn¡¯t even tell us? That¡¯s not just reckless; that¡¯s cold.¡±


    Brenna quickly replied, ¡°Rx, I wasn¡¯t alone. Thiago went there with me; we¡¯ve been through worse in Norview. We can handle ourselves. I even brought backup gear. I can share some of it with youter.¡±


    Then, under her breath, she added, ¡°And you two probably would have just slowed me down anyway.¡±


    Ernst¡¯s and Dalton¡¯s eyes gleamed with excitement. Knowing Brenna designed military-grade equipment, they were certain the gear was highly advanced, lethal, and rare. Even if they had no real use for it, the idea of owning it sent a rush through them.


    After all, there was something about military weaponry that always fascinated men. Some satisfied the urge with replicas or scaled models, but few, like the two of them, ever had the rare chance toy hands on the authentic kind.


    ¡°Sweet! Go grab it!¡± they said at once.


    G a lno v els  is packed with thrilling adventures


    Brenna shot them a resigned look. Then, she called Gary and asked him to bring her backpack upstairs.


    A few minutester, Gary walked over with Sandra trailing behind.


    Sandra had been eavesdropping for a while. But when Gary walked over, she had toe out of her hiding ce or she¡¯d be exposed.


    Gary handed the backpack over with a courteous nod. ¡°Here¡¯s your bag, Miss Harper.¡±


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 Chapter 1628

    Chapter 1628:


    ¡°Thanks,¡± Brenna responded.


    ¡°No problem, Miss Harper. I¡¯ll head back down now.¡±


    ¡°Share the snacks and choctes I brought back with everyone,¡± Brenna instructed.


    Once Gary left, Brenna unzipped the backpack and drew out a sleek metal box. Her fingers danced across the keypad as she entered a short code. A faint click sounded. Then, the lid lifted open, revealing some gleaming spherical devices tucked inside.


    She picked one up carefully and turned toward her brothers. ¡°Press the red button to activate it. I¡¯ll send you a link to download the control app. You can detonate it remotely.¡±


    Ernst and Dalton both got one, studying the sphere with a mix of fascination and caution. They understood from the way Brenna handled it that this was not a toy but a weapon, and they dared not press anything.


    ¡°How powerful is this thing?¡± Dalton asked, his voice low and steady.


    ¡°Powerful enough to destroy our house,¡± Brenna answered calmly. She showed no sign of fear about them setting it off by ident, confident in the safety lock and the fact that the device required the app to function.


    Ernst curiously asked, ¡°Can I press the red button?¡±


    ¡°Sure,¡± Brenna said. ¡°But without the app, it won¡¯t do anything.¡±


    ¡°Nah, forget it. If it goes off, we¡¯re all toast.¡± Ernst set the device carefully back into its box. Then, with steady hands, he closed the lid and took the entire case.


    Dalton made no move to stop him. One was enough for him.


    Sandra, drawn by curiosity, leaned closer for a look at the sphere resting in Dalton¡¯s hand. She had already overheard enough to piece together what it was, so she didn¡¯t ask any questions.


    She wanted no part of something this dangerous. The thought of keeping one near her sent a chill down her spine.


    Still, she envied Brenna and her brothers. Their bond was built on a kind of trust that left no room for fear or doubt.


    Brenna was bold enough to hand over banned weapons, and her brothers, knowing full well the risk, epted them without hesitation.


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna lock this up. We¡¯ll talk moreter.¡± Dalton rose, the sphere cradled carefully in his palm. He disappeared into his room, where a personal safe waited.


    Meanwhile, Ernst turned to his bodyguard and handed over the box to keep it secured. A few minutester, both men returned.


    ¡°Sandra, how are you nning to promote your shops tomorrow?¡± Ernst asked.


    Sandra¡¯s face brightened at once. Finally, one of them took an interest in her business. She answered eagerly, ¡°You¡¯ve seen tons of marketing strategies. Help me out here. The brand¡¯s giving me a 60% discount on wholesale prices, which is already half off retail. I¡¯m thinking of offering one item at 50% off and two items at 30% off. Big discounts to spread the name fast and build a loyal customer base.


    What do you think?¡±


    They all sat down to talk. Ernst leaned back and shook his head in disagreement.


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    ¡°That won¡¯t work. You¡¯ll lose money. Those discounts are far too steep. Sure, you¡¯ll move a lot of stock, but at those prices, you could lose millions in a single day.¡±


    Sandra frowned, unconvinced. ¡°I think CloudPath¡¯s clothes are solid. Once people buy them, they¡¯lle back again. These discounts will draw in loyal customers.¡±


    Ernst said, ¡°You don¡¯t get it. Customers who shop sales that deep won¡¯t ever pay full priceter¡­¡±


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    Message from Noa: I hope you enjoyed the new chapters, dear ones. Today, we also have a newlypleted novel. God loves you, and Noa wishes you all the best. (? ?? ? ¨C ? ) ?


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 Chapter 1629

    ?Chapter 1629:


    Unconvinvinced by Ernst¡¯s disappointed expression, Sandra believed he secretly hoped her venture would falter. Her marketing strategy, born from days of brainstorming and inspired by other shops¡¯ anniversary campaigns, seemed foolproof to her. Yet Ernst had dismissed it with a single remark.


    She now thought discussing it with the Harpers was pointless. Noticing Sandra¡¯s defiance, Ernst saw no point in detailing the n¡¯s weaknesses. If she lost money, it wouldn¡¯t dent the Harpers¡¯ wealth¡ªa few million, perhaps ten at most, was trivial for them.


    ¡°Any other promotional ideas?¡± he inquired.


    Brimming with assurance, Sandra said, ¡°A membership recharge deal. Top up 1,000, get an extra 200; 2,000 gets 500; 10,000 gets 3,000. Plus, every purchase adds its value to your membership bnce. I saw a bakery pull this off brilliantly, and I¡¯m confident it¡¯s a winning tactic for my store.¡±


    After a pause, she added, ¡°That bakery offered 30 extra for a 100 top-up, 80 for 200, 120 for 300, 200 for 500, and raked in 700,000 in a day. I¡¯m projecting my clothing boutique could see tens of millions in revenues.¡±


    Ernst exchanged a doubtful nce with Brenna, both believing Sandra¡¯s n wouldn¡¯t work. After all, a bakery¡¯s tactics didn¡¯t neatly trante to a clothing store. Still, they held back criticism to avoid upsetting Sandra.


    Sandra continued, outlining her vision. ¡°I¡¯ve stocked 10,000 items, worth 5 million. The salests three days. With your support in spreading the word, I¡¯m certain I¡¯ll clear the inventory and build a loyal customer base.¡±


    Brenna, anticipating losses, reasoned that for a grand opening, attracting customers outweighed immediate profits. Every business invests in its clients.


    ¡°Your strategy is strong. Keep going. I¡¯ll swing by early tomorrow to help promote,¡± she said.


    Ernst nodded. ¡°Count me in.¡±


    Dalton, who had initially declined to attend Sandra¡¯sunch, was now crafting a social media post. He showed it to her, saying, ¡°Send me some store photos, and I¡¯ll share them.¡±


    gal¦Ç¦Ò¦Íe?s.c?m is your update source


    Surprised, Sandra gratefully sent a batch of photos. Within moments, she checked Dalton¡¯s social media. He had posted, and she quickly liked it, adding her store¡¯s address in ament.


    Ernst and Brenna reposted it, alerting theirworks to rally support.


    The family lingered in warm conversation until ten in the evening, when they retired to their rooms.


    Inside her room, Brenna video-called Ethan for an update. While signing documents, Ethan said, ¡°You won¡¯t believe this¡ªHector is dead. A massive st took out his hotel a week ago. Police only identified him among the victims yesterday after checking the casualty list.¡±


    Stunned, Brenna replied, ¡°I thought he woulde after us for ruining his major deal. Never imagined he would just die like that. Talk about karma! His shady dealings must have offended the universe itself. Any clue who¡¯s behind the explosion? No way that was an ident.¡±


    Ethan responded, ¡°No one has taken credit yet, but I¡¯d wager it¡¯s his brother or cousin. His family has been locked in a fierce power struggletely¡ªwouldn¡¯t shock me.¡± With a sly grin, he added, ¡°Saves us a headache.¡±


    It was broad daylight where Ethan was, and he barely had time to breathe. The Norview branch was buried in problems, and he¡¯d be stuck untangling them for a few more days. On the phone, he said to Brenna, ¡°Saw your post on social media. Had Neville st it out to all ourpany group chats¡ªmy way of helping.¡±


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 Chapter 1630

    ?Chapter 1630:


    Brenna replied, ¡°Appreciate it! That reminds me¡ªI¡¯ll share it with our internal employee groups, too. It¡¯s the weekend tomorrow. If anyone wants to shop, they¡¯ll have time.¡±


    The next morning, Brenna got out of bed around nine and headed out to help with the promo at Sandra¡¯s store. Downstairs, her entire family was already gathered, dressed up like they were heading to a g.


    Giselle leaned in and urged Brenna, ¡°Hurry up¡ªwe¡¯re runningte.¡±


    Her voice dropped to a low grumble. ¡°We¡¯ve got stores all over the city under the Harper name. Not once have we shown up for one of their grand openings¡ªnot even yours. But for Sandra? We¡¯re rolling in like a parade.¡±


    Dalton kept to the side,pletely unrecognizable. His hoodie was drawn tight, the shades shadowed his eyes, and a mask concealed most of his face. Anyone would have to look twice to realize it was him.


    Brenna tried to calm Giselle, saying, ¡°She went all out with the marketing. I¡¯ve seen the event shared everywhere. If we don¡¯t show, people will talk. You know how your work friends are¡ªcan¡¯t wait to chew us up at lunch.¡±


    Giselle let out a resigned sigh. ¡°If it weren¡¯t for that, I wouldn¡¯t be stepping one foot in her store.¡±


    The Harpers piled into their cars and headed for the pedestrian mall. By the time they arrived, the ce was already buzzing. A few influencers had been streaming live for half an hour, and the shop floor was packed, the checkout line spilling toward the entrance.


    Sandra had been standing at the door, nerves twisting in her stomach. Part of her had worried that the Harpers were just humoring herst night and wouldn¡¯t show up today. But when the convoy of luxury cars rolled up, her worry melted away. She said with a faint smile, ¡°You¡¯re all finally here! Two minutes before the grand opening!¡±


    The ceremony was simple. Sandra took her ce before the camera and announced the shop¡¯s official opening. The camera swept across the Harper family. They didn¡¯t have to say anything.


    Fresh updates loaded g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s?c?m


    Dalton pulled his hood low, hoping to blend in, but the attempt backfiredpletely. His getup practically shouted celebrity in disguise, and it didn¡¯t take long for sharp-eyed fans to recognize him.


    News spread like wildfire. Within ten minutes, fans from nearby shops flooded the ce, surrounding him as he tried to browse. He hadn¡¯t brought his manager or assistant with him, so he could only do everything on his own.


    ¡°Buy something, and I¡¯ll sign it for you!¡± he said.


    ¡°Dalton, what¡¯s your connection to the store owner?¡±


    ¡°Can we grab a quick selfie with you?¡±


    ¡°When¡¯s your next movieing out?¡±


    ¡°Wait, is this your store? I¡¯ll definitely support it!¡±


    The Harper family stood frozen, wide-eyed. They knew Dalton was popr, but this was beyond anything they¡¯d imagined. Within minutes, the store was overflowing with fans. If they lingered any longer, the ce might actually burst at the seams.


    Shepard shot a nce at Ernst and said in a low voice, ¡°You and Brenna need to get Dalton out of here now. If more fans show up, he¡¯ll be stuck here all day.¡±


    Sandra, on the other hand, was practically glowing. Seeing the chaos Dalton¡¯s presence caused only made her more excited. She stepped up beside him, grinning at the crowd. ¡°I¡¯m the store owner¡ªand a friend of Dalton¡¯s! Anyone who spends over five thousand dors today gets an autograph from him!¡±


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 Chapter 1631

    ?Chapter 1631:


    Dalton sighed inwardly. He had expected this might happen and had prepared stacks of autographed photos the night before. He handed Sandra a box of them. ¡°Give these to the cashiers. I¡¯m leaving before things get worse.¡±


    If his agency caught wind of this, he¡¯d be in deep trouble.


    Brenna and Ernst pushed their way through the sea of fans, grabbed Dalton by the arm, and rushed him toward the exit.


    It took every ounce of grit Brenna and Ernst possessed to pry Dalton free from the sea of fans swarming around him. Even when they got him into the car, fans clung to the doors like ivy, pleading for photos. Dalton, ever the charmer, indulged them with a fewst smiles and photos before his bodyguards finally shut the door and whisked him away in a blur of shing cameras.


    No sooner had Dalton disappeared down the street than another stampede of fans poured into the store. They tore through the racks like a pack of hungry wolves, snatching up clothes in armloads. The checkout line snaked across the floor, every customer determined to spend at least five thousand just to snag one of Dalton¡¯s autographs.


    Sandra could hardly contain her joy.


    ¡°Keep those racks full!¡± she said to her overwhelmed staff, who darted about like bees in a hive.


    To her astonishment, all five hundred signed photos were gone within an hour. By 11:30, the frenzy began to fade, and the store finally exhaled. The manager rushed over to Sandra, breathless. ¡°Boss, half our inventory is gone!¡±


    Sandra grinned, not the least bit fazed. ¡°Then keep iting¡ªrestock whatever¡¯s left!¡±


    Just as she turned, she saw Keira. Sandra blinked, startled. Between the madness of the grand opening and the endless foot traffic, she hadn¡¯t visited her mom in days. Keira¡¯s bandages were gone now, her left wrist hidden in her sleeve where her missing hand would have been.


    ¡°Mom? What are you doing here?¡± Sandra asked, still juggling her focus between her mother and the mayhem around her.


    Even the Harpers¡ªminus Dalton¡ªhad rolled up their sleeves to help restock, their bodyguards lending muscle to the task.


    Keira¡¯s eyes sparkled with pride and excitement. ¡°I heard about your big day and brought some of my friends! I might¡¯ve, um¡­ promised them an eighty percent discount. That¡¯s all right with you, right?¡±


    Sandra didn¡¯t hesitate. Family came first. ¡°Of course, Mom! I¡¯ll let the cashiers know. You and your buddies can get the discount when you pay.¡±


    She strode to the checkout and said to the two cashiers, ¡°This is my mom, and she¡¯s with some friends. Give them an eighty percent discount on everything they purchase.¡±


    ¡°Got it, boss!¡± the cashiers replied in unison.


    By noon, the madness had simmered down, giving the Harper family a chance to breathe. Shepard walked over to Sandra. ¡°Sandra, we¡¯re heading home. If things get out of hand again, I can send over some of the household staff to help.¡±


    Sandra, riding high on the day¡¯s sess, shed a grateful smile. ¡°Thanks, Dad¡ªand everyone. You were lifesavers today. Don¡¯t worry; I¡¯ve got it handled now. Things should calm down this afternoon.¡±


    The Harpers departed soon after. And just as Sandra had predicted, the afternoon rush was steady but mercifully manageable¡ªa far cry from the morning¡¯s beautiful chaos.


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 Chapter 1632

    ?Chapter 1632:


    Sandra didn¡¯t close the store until well past ten that night. Afterward, she sat down with the manager to go over the numbers. The results were staggering¡ªover ten million in sales, and more than half their inventory was wiped out. A quick calction revealed the hard truth. They were staring at a three-million-dor loss.


    Worse still, her membership recharge promo had tanked. Fewer than one percent of customers had signed up.


    The loss was a bit too much for her. Sandra had expected to take a small hit at first, sure. But she hadn¡¯t meant to bleed this much in one day.


    As she sat there, lost in figures and frustration, her phone rang. It was Keira calling.


    ¡°Sweetheart! How much did you make today¡ªseveral million, right?¡± Keira¡¯s voice was bursting with excitement; she was clearly too happy to sleep. ¡°I saw the Harpers pitching in, and Dalton himself! Oh, darling, if you can get him back to your store a few more times, you¡¯ll be swimming in cash.¡±


    She kept chattering on, unaware of Sandra¡¯s bad mood.


    Finally, Sandra¡¯s patience snapped. ¡°Mom, what are you talking about? Dalton¡¯s visit almost destroyed my store today! The crowd he brought in was insane¡ªI could barely keep things from copsing! Stop saying stuff like that; you don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about.¡±


    Sandra could hardly contain her frustration. Losing some money was one thing, but watching over three million disappear in a single day was beyond what she¡¯d ever imagined. The renovations for her two stores alone had swallowed up four million, and she had spent another one and a half million on inventory. Altogether, nearly ten million was gone. Only a few days earlier, she and Jordy had poured one hundred and fifty million into a new venture.


    Now, she was left with barely thirty million to her name. Sure, thirty million was still a hefty sum, but earning all her lost money back wouldn¡¯t be as simple as spending it.


    Running a business had turned out to be far more difficult than she¡¯d expected.


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    A wave of regret washed over her as she thought about involving the Harper family, especially Dalton. If Dalton¡¯s fans hadn¡¯t crowded the store, she wouldn¡¯t have taken such a heavy hit.


    Thinking ahead, she nned to return to normal operations once the three-day promotion ended. The profit per clothing item was barely a hundred to three hundred dors. After she paid sries andmissions, there was almost nothing left. At that rate, recovering the three million could take years. It was only the first day, and already, she was drowning in regret.


    She used to think earning about eight million a year was nothing special. If she managed the stores herself, she had expected no less than twenty million a year in profit. Now, she finally understood how wrong she¡¯d been.


    But it was far toote for regrets¡ªthe money was already gone. All she could do now was pray that the next two days wouldn¡¯t bring as much loss.


    Keira wouldn¡¯t stop talking. ¡°Celebrities are goldmines, I swear! Just convince Dalton to show up one more day in your store, and you¡¯ll be raking in cash. Sweetheart, you¡¯re destined to hit it big. I must¡¯ve done something amazing in a past life to have a daughter like you!¡±


    Sandra¡¯s patience snapped when she heard that. ¡°That¡¯s enough, Mom. I need to review the numbers. I should hang up.¡± With that, she ended the call.


    When the day finally wound down, she couldn¡¯t bring herself to face the full extent of the losses. Forcing a smile, she dismissed her staff with forced joy.


    ¡°We crushed it today! Bonuses for everyone this month!¡±


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 Chapter 1633

    ?Chapter 1633:


    The employees erupted in cheers.


    On the drive home, Sandra couldn¡¯t stop reying the day in her head. She¡¯d spent a fortune putting up luxury design ads in top locations, yet barely a dozen people had shown interest, and her second store hadn¡¯t drawn a single inquiry. Even the much-hyped promotion had fallen t.


    When she finally stepped through the door, the house was quiet. Everyone had already turned in for the night. No one had waited for her toe back. The Harper family¡¯s indifference hit her hard, leaving a hollow ache in her chest.


    Once she was inside her room, all theposure she¡¯d managed disappeared. She had walked into this so sure of herself, throwing money at every detail, only to crash spectacrly on the very first day. How could she have failed so miserably?


    By Sunday, Brenna slept past noon. With no pressing work, she spent the afternoon over at Ellie¡¯s ce.


    Sandra came home early to join the family for dinner. Spotting her in rtively good spirits, Shepard smiled and asked casually, ¡°So, how¡¯s the promotioning along?¡±


    For the Harper family, a store sale barely registered¡ªit was pocket change. But since this was Sandra¡¯s first business venture, Shepard decided to show some interest. Normally, no one would have bothered to ask about something like this.


    Sandra¡¯s emotions twisted painfully. Being ignored had stung, but being asked about the matter now left her unsure what to say at all. The weight of it all hit her, and tears slipped down her cheeks before she could stop them.


    ¡°Dad, I¡¯ve disappointed you,¡± Sandra said, sinking into her seat as sobs overtook her.


    All eyes turned toward her at once. Shepard¡¯s brows knitted in concern as he asked, ¡°What happened? Did someone give you a hard time?¡±


    Sandra shook her head, unable to form words at first. Brenna quietly handed her a tissue, and she dabbed at her tears. Ernst and Lilith exchanged startled looks, while Dalton slowly set his fork down, his expression tightening.


    g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í???s is your story source


    Between sobs, Sandra finally choked out, ¡°Dad, I lost four million in just two days. I¡¯m awful at this. I can¡¯t do anything right. I wasted the family¡¯s money; I¡¯m such a fool¡­¡±


    The Harper family¡¯s reaction came as a surprise to Sandra. There was no teasing, no smug ¡°I told you so.¡± They simply looked at her calmly.


    Sandra was momentarily unsure of how to respond. She had braced herself forughter and mockery, but not this. It was Shepard who broke the silence. He chuckled and said, ¡°You¡¯ve done an amazing job. You¡¯ve never run a business before, yet you came up with such a clever promotion n and made a huge number of sales on your first day. That¡¯s better than what most people could pull off. Now you can use those numbers to bargain for better wholesale terms with the brand.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s mood lifted. She nodded, a spark of renewed confidence lighting up her face. ¡°You¡¯re right. I did gain something from this.¡±


    But even as relief settled over her, a question that had been nagging at her since yesterday pushed its way forward. She decided now was the right moment to see where the Harpers really stood.


    She turned toward Brenna and asked curiously, ¡°Brenna, when yourpany started, did Dad and Ernst help you bring in orders?¡±


    From what she¡¯d seen, the Harpers hadn¡¯t lifted much of a finger to support herunch. None of their friends or business partners hade to shop, and she was displeased with it. Her eyes fixed on Brenna, waiting for the answer.


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 Chapter 1634

    ?Chapter 1634:


    Brenna caught her meaning at once, but she stayedposed. ¡°Nope. Mypany¡¯s been around for years. By the time I became part of the Harper family, it was already thriving with steady ordersing in. I never needed any help from the family. Later on, I started taking contracts with the military, so my reputation only got better. These days, I¡¯ve got more work than I can handle. I even had to hire extra staff and expand the business. Help from family was never something I needed.¡±


    She exined everything patiently¡ªshe wanted to make sure Sandra wouldn¡¯t misunderstand anything.


    ¡°Brenna is exceptional,¡± Dalton said, clearly done with Sandra¡¯s probing. ¡°You¡¯ve got no idea what she has aplished, so let me clear that up before you start assuming things. She has designed fighter jets for the military. The systems in their third-generation models are her work. The newest drones and robotic dogs you see on the news? Also hers. Even our country¡¯s cybersecurity framework. She built all of those. She¡¯s a lot more impressive than you realize.¡±


    The message in his words was clear. Brenna wasn¡¯t just capable¡ªshe was leagues ahead of Sandra.


    Sandra felt her breath catch. She hadn¡¯t known any of this. Her eyes swung to Brenna, searching her face for some sign of denial. But Brenna stayed quiet. Her silence was as good as confirmation.


    ¡°Is that really true?¡± Sandra asked, her voice barely above a whisper.


    Brenna nodded casually. ¡°Yeah. Most of my military work is confidential, though, so keep it between us.¡±


    Sandra blinked, still reeling. ¡°Oh, okay¡­¡±


    Dalton wasn¡¯t done. He leaned forward and continued, ¡°That¡¯s not all. Brenna¡¯spany makes some of the best smart prosthetic limbs in the world. She¡¯s got orders lined up for the next three years. And she¡¯s opened gship stores in several major cities without ever asking the family for help.¡±


    Ernst shot Brenna a teasing grin. ¡°Brenna is the full package. She¡¯s smart, gorgeous, and very talented. Remember Uncle Ableson¡¯s prosthetic legs? She designed and built them herself. He said they¡¯re the best he¡¯s ever had.¡±


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    Sandra blinked, caught off guard. Ableson had prosthetic legs? Even though she hadn¡¯t seen him a lot, she had always thought he wasn¡¯t disabled.


    Her gaze drifted to Brenna, and something twisted inside her. It wasn¡¯t admiration¡ªit was envy.


    Then, a thought struck her like a jolt. Keira¡¯s missing hand. If Brenna could create advanced prosthetics, could she make one for her mom? The idea made her chest tighten. Life would be so much easier for Keira if that happened.


    Sandra wanted to ask Brenna about this, but now wasn¡¯t the right time. She decided to talk to her about it privately. Then, doubt crept in. What if a new hand tempted Keira back to her old gambling ways?


    The risk loomedrge, a shadow over the idea. Perhaps it was better to let Keira live with the reminder of why she had lost her hand.


    Swallowing her thoughts, Sandra forced a smile. ¡°Brenna, you¡¯re really something!¡± she praised reluctantly.


    Though Brenna¡¯s brilliance grated on her, the family¡¯s warm support had lifted her spirits.


    Come Monday, Brenna and Thiago headed to the office after days away, buried under a mountain of neglected work. It took several days to deal with everything, with Brenna returning homete most nights.


    On Friday, Brenna stumbled through the door after midnight, exhausted. She froze at the sight of Giselle and Shepard in the third-floor lounge, d in pajamas but wide awake, their faces etched with irritation.


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 Chapter 1635

    ?Chapter 1635:


    Startled, Brenna walked over and sat down on the couch beside Giselle. ¡°Mom, Dad, why are you still up? Is something wrong?¡±


    Their grim expressions hinted that something bad had happened.


    Giselle sped Brenna¡¯s hand, her voice steady but heavy. ¡°Brenna, do you truly care for Ethan?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s brow furrowed, puzzled. ¡°Yeah. I think he¡¯s a great guy. Why do you ask?¡±


    Giselle let out a frustrated sigh. ¡°This afternoon, I bumped into Ethan¡¯s mother at the spa. You won¡¯t believe the nonsense she spouted.¡±


    Brenna, catching the storm in Giselle¡¯s eyes, braced herself.


    ¡°Let me guess¡ªElsa thinks Ethan and I are a bad match?¡±


    Giselle¡¯s anger red. ¡°Worse. She ims her family has been gued by misfortune¡ªidents piling up. Her eldest son¡¯s daughter passed away suddenly, and her ex-husband¡¯s wife lost a pregnancy. She¡¯s convinced it¡¯s a curse. She consulted a psychic, who dered that you and Ethan can¡¯t be together, that your union is bringing her family bad luck. She¡¯s pinning everything bad on you. I¡¯m livid!¡±


    Brenna¡¯s expression darkened, her voice sharp. ¡°Their troubles have nothing to do with me. She¡¯s buying into that nonsense?¡±


    Giselle snorted and replied, ¡°Brenna, I¡¯m not against you and Ethan, but I think you should pump the brakes on wedding ns. Keep things this way for now and see how it ys out. His family¡¯s drama is a red g, and if Ethan can¡¯t deal with it, you probably shouldn¡¯t marry him. You¡¯re young¡ªthere¡¯s no need to rush down the aisle.¡±


    She steeled herself for an argument, armed with reasons to sway Brenna. But to her surprise, Brenna paused for a moment, then nodded.


    ¡°You¡¯re right, Mom. Elsa is a walking headache. Just look at the chaos she¡¯s caused for Kenny and Rosanna,¡± Brenna said.


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    Shepard seethed with fury. ¡°We are the ones who should be choosy about her family! Brenna, you¡¯re not tying the knot with Ethan. Let Elsa grovel at our feet, pleading for this marriage, before we even consider it. I can¡¯t stand all her snide remarks, acting like you aren¡¯t worthy of her son.¡±


    Brenna wasn¡¯t one to grovel for a man¡¯s hand. Elsa had crossed a line this time. The Harpers hadpromised before, but they wouldn¡¯t keep bending. They had their dignity, and so did she.


    ¡°I¡¯m with you,¡± Brenna dered. ¡°Let¡¯s just put the matter on hold and deal with itter.¡±


    Shepard and Giselle exhaled in relief. They had feared that Brenna would insist on marrying Ethan soon, but that didn¡¯t happen.


    None of them noticed Sandra hovering near her bedroom door, overhearing every word. A flicker of smugness stirred within her¡ªBrenna¡¯s charmed life wasn¡¯t wless; she faced rejection, too. That seemed fair.


    Sure, Ethan would never nce her way, but Sandra still felt happy that Brenna¡¯s life wasn¡¯t perfect.


    It was the weekend, and Ethan, buried in work after his travels, hadn¡¯t made ns with Brenna. She didn¡¯t reach out to him, either, and he was too busy with work to notice.


    Brenna slept until noon, then descended the stairs for lunch, only to find the house buzzing with guests. There was an elderly couple in their sixties, two younger couples in their thirties, and five children¡ªthree girls and two boys, the eldest a pretty girl of about seventeen, the youngest a boy around eleven.


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 Chapter 1636

    ?Chapter 1636:


    They wore simple attire. The older man bore a faint resemnce to Giselle, leading Brenna to suspect he was her uncle. Since rejoining the Harper family, she hadn¡¯t visited her uncle¡¯s family, nor had theye here. Their sudden arrival, with such a crowd, hinted at a plea for money.


    Thinking of that, Brenna realized she had already reached the dining room doorway, and it was toote to retreat. Giselle, Ernst, Lilith, and Dalton were there, the atmosphere tense. Giselle¡¯s irritation was palpable.


    Brenna was puzzled¡ªGiselle had told her that her uncle¡¯s family was doing fine, yet their worn clothes suggested otherwise.


    ¡°Good to see you all,¡± Brenna said coolly, her smile reserved for those she truly liked.


    Giselle made introductions. ¡°This is your uncle, Wesley Bentley, my brother. You¡¯ve never met. And this is your aunt, Elva Bentley.¡±


    Turning to her brother¡¯s family, she added, ¡°This is my daughter, Brenna, who just returned to the family a couple of years ago.¡±


    Jalen Bentley, shing a warm grin, said to Brenna, ¡°I¡¯m your cousin, Jalen. I work at the county office. My wife is a high school teacher. Giselle has told me about you¡ªbright, gifted, and now, I see you¡¯re stunning, too. Come visit us when you¡¯re free. We¡¯re family; we should connect more.¡±


    Brenna replied with a brisk ¡°Sure.¡±


    Jalen was in his mid-thirties, polished, and handsome¡ªthe Bentley good genes shone through, as all the kids were good-looking.


    The other young man introduced himself, saying, ¡°Brenna, I¡¯m also your cousin. My name is Conor Bentley. I manage a modestw firm, and my wife is awyer.¡±


    ¡°Hey, Conor,¡± Brenna responded.


    They seemed respectable to her, not the sort to fawn. The children, well-mannered, all approached to call her ¡°Aunt Brenna.¡± Their manners softened Brenna. She believed old family grudges shouldn¡¯t taint the younger generation.


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    ¡°Hold on, I¡¯ve got some snacks from my trip abroad for you,¡± she said, summoning Julia. ¡°Grab the choctes, cookies, and candies I brought backst week from my room.¡±


    But Brenna noticed her uncle¡¯s and aunt¡¯s somber expressions. Her aunt, in particr, looked sickly, with a pale, yellowplexion. She probably had a grave illness.


    Julia promptly fetched the treats. Brenna had intended to savor them herself, but her demanding job required strict weight management¡ªshe would only allow a nibble or two when cravings hit, making indulgence rare. She would let these kids have the snacks.


    She viewed them as tempting but unhealthy, a guilty pleasure best limited for a longer, healthier life.


    The treat boxes, thoughpact, were filled with premium gourmet delights. Brenna had purchased several for her family, each small box costing thousands. Their elegant packaging screamed luxury.


    The Bentley children, unustomed to such extravagance, were awestruck by the high-end treats. Though unfamiliar with the brands, they weren¡¯t foolish. The snacks¡¯ superior quality was unmistakable. They knew these were expensive.


    They hesitated to take any, waiting for Brenna to distribute them. Brenna arranged ten boxes, giving each child two. Julia, ever dependable, had left three of the original thirteen boxes in the cupboard.


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 Chapter 1637

    ?Chapter 1637:


    The kids, shy about epting gifts, looked to their parents for approval. Jalen and Conor knew anything from the Harper family, even snacks, came with a hefty price tag. Since arriving, their aunt had offered fruit and nibbles as courtesy but never outright presents. She hadn¡¯t summoned Ernst or his wife over, nor had their cousin shown up.


    She clearly wasn¡¯t thrilled about their visit. Only Brenna extended warmth toward them.


    Smiling, Jalen said, ¡°Since Brenna is offering, go ahead and take them.¡±


    Only then did the kids each pick two boxes, not daring to open them so soon, eyeing each other¡¯s treats before chorusing, ¡°Thank you, Aunt Brenna!¡±


    Across the table, Giselle and Wesley talked in hushed tones. Wesley¡¯s tone was pleading. ¡°Giselle, it has been years¡ªwhy can¡¯t you move on? I¡¯ve owned up to my mistakes. What more do you want? Do you want me to kneel? No matter how much you hate me, even if yoush out at me, it won¡¯t bring Mom back, and Miah won¡¯t make peace with us. Please, let go of the anger. I know I was selfish back then. I realize my mistake now.¡±


    Though he spoke in a low voice, his words reached Brenna clearly. Giselle had never shared details about Wesley¡¯s family, leaving Brenna clueless about their past.


    Noticing the untouched dishes on the table, Brenna urged everyone to start eating. ¡°Let¡¯s eat before the food gets cold.¡±


    She nced at Giselle, whose stern expression betrayed her displeasure. Seeing the children lower their gazes, avoiding her, Giselle felt her resolve soften. Her rift with Wesley was irreparable, but the children were innocent.


    She managed a smile and said, ¡°Come on, let¡¯s eat.¡±


    Brenna observed Wesley¡¯s care toward Elva, choosing lighter dishes for her, though Elva seemed withdrawn, guilt shadowing her silence. Despite Giselle¡¯s resentment, the Bentley family¡¯s apologetic demeanor and presence prompted her to serve avish spread, rivaling a five-star restaurant.


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    The Bentley family had never experienced such luxury. Sitting beside Conor, Brenna said, ¡°There¡¯s no need to be reserved, Conor.¡±


    She personally passed dishes to her young nieces and nephews, urging, ¡°Go on, eat up; there¡¯s plenty.¡±


    The children hesitated until Giselle began eating. Then, they dug in.


    After the meal, Brenna said to the kids, ¡°How about I show you around outside?¡±


    The Harper family estate was a breathtaking spectacle. As the children spilled out from the stifling dining room and caught sight of the magnificent grounds, their delight erupted, and they darted about with unrestrained joy.


    Even Jalen¡¯s and Conor¡¯s wives joined the kids, strolling through the lush garden at a rxed pace.


    Brenna wandered alongside Jalen and Conor, her curiosity stirred.


    ¡°Jalen, do you have any idea why my mom holds such a grudge against your dad? I overheard her say she¡¯ll never forgive him.¡±


    Jalen let out a soft sigh, his expression one of quiet resignation. ¡°I know the story. It goes back over thirty years, when I was just a kid. My dad felt awful about it, but his pride kept him from admitting fault.¡±


    Brenna listened intently, sensing the matter was more tangled than it appeared.


    Jalen began to recount the incident. Though he had been young at that time, the tragedy had left asting scar, vivid in his mind even now.


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 Chapter 1638

    ?Chapter 1638:


    ¡°My grandma and my mom were in a car ident. Both were critically injured and rushed to the hospital, but we could only afford treatment for one of them.¡±


    He paused for a moment. ¡°My dad couldn¡¯t bear losing my mom. Your mom pleaded to save my grandma, sparking a massive fight. In the heat of it, my dad, ovee with emotion, struck your mom and ordered the doctors to save my mom. My grandma bled out and died from her wounds. That broke your mom¡ªshe could never forgive my dad. When the new semester started, she returned to college and cut ties with us. She didn¡¯t even tell us about her marriage. My dad was crushed when he learned from someone else that she got married, knowing she resented him.¡±


    As he recounted the story, he couldn¡¯t decide who was right or wrong.


    ¡°A few yearster, that incident sort of faded from everyone¡¯s memory. Then, Aunt Miah¡¯s world copsed¡ªher son was diagnosed with leukemia, needing a bone marrow transnt. We all got tested forpatibility. It turned out my dad was a match, and Miah believed her boy had a chance to survive.¡±


    ¡°Did Wesley donate the bone marrow?¡± Brenna asked, curiosity flickering in her eyes.


    Jalen shook his head. ¡°No. My mom said it could wreck his health, and my dad believed that too. On the day of the operation, he just bailed¡ªdidn¡¯t show up, ignored Miah¡¯s calls. Miah begged him on her knees, but neither he nor my mom budged. Miah¡¯s son never got the transnt, and he didn¡¯t make it. She¡¯s never forgiven my dad for that¡ªcut him offpletely. When your mom found out about the matter, she stormed into my dad¡¯s office and tore into him in front of everyone. His boss heard the whole thing and thought he was heartless, too.¡±


    He sighed. ¡°My dad was in line to be mayor, but after your mom¡¯s outburst, that dream went up in smoke. He got knocked down from deputy mayor to district manager and stayed there till now. He¡¯s about to retire. He still thinks that your mom wrecked his career. Says she¡¯s got money and connections because of your dad, but never lifted a finger to help him climb up.¡±


    He rubbed the back of his neck. ¡°Look, I know my dad messed up. Ever since that fallout, our family has been scraping by¡ªnothing has gone right. If we weren¡¯t struggling like this, my dad probably wouldn¡¯t have shown up today.¡±


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    Brenna nodded slowly. ¡°I see. I won¡¯t say a word. Whether my mom forgives him or not¡­ that¡¯s her decision.¡±


    But inwardly, she felt disgusted. What kind of man lets a child die like that? Her uncle¡¯s selfishness ran bone-deep.


    Jalen could tell right away from Brenna¡¯s frosty expression that she wasn¡¯t about to y peacemaker. He had hoped pouring out the story might tug at her heartstrings, maybe get her to nudge Giselle toward forgiving Wesley, but clearly, it wasn¡¯t working.


    In his mind, the old grudges between their parents had dragged on long enough. Now that his dad was aging, finally eating humble pie and admitting his fault, he believed Giselle should forgive him.


    ¡°Brenna,¡± he said, ¡°my dad came to make peace. He knows he was selfish back then¡ªhe¡¯s eaten up with guilt. Can¡¯t you talk to your mom and get her to forgive him?¡±


    Brenna blinked, caught off guard. She had thought Jalen was one of the good ones¡ªfair, level-headed, nothing like her self-absorbed uncle. But after hearing that, she felt her opinion shift. In her eyes, he was just like his dad¡ªself-serving, with no sense of right and wrong.


    ¡°I¡¯m not getting dragged into their mess,¡± Brenna said coldly.


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 Chapter 1639

    ?Chapter 1639:


    Conor, who had been nearby, stayed silent. Jalen shot him a pointed look, silently urging him to help. But Conor didn¡¯t say anything.


    Just then, Brenna¡¯s phone rang. She stepped aside to take the call. It was Ernst calling.


    ¡°Has Wesley¡¯s familye to visit?¡± Ernst asked sharply. He was still at the office, swamped with a huge new project he was personally managing.


    Brenna could hear the edge in his tone and immediately guessed he was in the loop.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± she said, ¡°the whole family is here.¡±


    ¡°Stay out of it,¡± Ernst said. ¡°Mom told me and Dalton she¡¯ll never forgive Wesley. And she meant it. None of us¡ªme, you, Dalton, Dad¡ªare to get involved. If you intervene, Mom will get upset.¡±


    ¡°Understood,¡± Brenna replied.


    Meanwhile, Jalen said to Conor, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you back me up earlier? Dad has worked his tail off his whole life, and now, right before he retires, he could end up in jail over some stupid money issue. And we can¡¯t just let Mom die from cancer. The Harpers are loaded; they¡¯ve got the pull to find a liver donor in no time. You¡¯re awyer, smooth talker¡ªif you say something, you could convince Brenna.¡±


    Conor¡¯s temper red. ¡°I¡¯m not doing it! You were lying to her. I heard the fight at that time¡ªthe fall was Dad¡¯s fault, not Grandma¡¯s. Why did you lie to Brenna?¡±


    Jalen barked, ¡°What do you know? Just keep quiet; I¡¯m telling it the right way!¡±


    Conor scoffed, ¡°Right way? You can¡¯t even tell the truth, and you expect me to help you con our cousin? Do you take her for a fool? Forget it¡ªI¡¯m not helping you.¡±


    Brenna watched the two brothers bicker with cool detachment, making no move to intervene. Part of her wanted to slip away quietly¡ªErnst¡¯s side of the family hadn¡¯t shown up, her father was out, and Dalton was upstairs pretending to be sick.


    Only she had foolishlye to wee the guests.


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    Just as she was about to make up some excuse to leave, Wesley¡¯s booming voice rang out from the doorway. ¡°Everyone,e here!¡±


    The nearby children froze mid-y, eyes darting uncertainly toward the doorway. To Brenna¡¯s surprise, none of them rushed to obey. They exchanged uneasy nces, as if silently debating whether to move.


    Only when Wesley repeated, ¡°Didn¡¯t you hear me? Come over here,¡± did the children finally stir, with Jalen and Conor trailing in their wake. Brenna followed behind them.


    In the living room, Tonya Warren¡ªWesley¡¯s wife¡ªsat beside Giselle on the sofa, dabbing at her eyes as though the world had wronged her personally.


    Wesley¡¯s face was hard as stone, his voice tight with frustration. ¡°Giselle, our whole family is begging you. How is that still not enough? I¡¯ve already apologized! What more do you want from us? Do we have to kneel down right here before you to earn your forgiveness?¡±


    Giselle didn¡¯t so much as flinch. Her eyes were icy, her tone cutting. ¡°Don¡¯t try to guilt-trip me with that wounded act, Wesley. Back then, you made your choice¡ªyou saved your wife and left our mother to die. That¡¯s on you. You borrowed money from her to pay for your wife¡¯s surgery, the same money she scraped together to help you climb thedder. You repaid her kindness with betrayal.¡±


    She paused for a moment. ¡°Dad went to jail because of you, and Mom nearly worked herself to death trying to keep your career afloat. And when it came down to choosing between your wife and your own mother, you didn¡¯t even hesitate to abandon our mother. So don¡¯t talk to me about forgiveness. I don¡¯t have a brother like you. Even if your whole family crawled here on your knees, I wouldn¡¯t forgive you, I wouldn¡¯t lend you a cent, and I sure as hell wouldn¡¯t find a liver for your wife. Get out¡ªand don¡¯t evere back.¡±


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 Chapter 1640

    ?Chapter 1640:


    The tension in the air was thick enough to choke on. Jalen shuffled in with his wife and kids, then ordered them to kneel.


    ¡°Kneel,¡± he hissed at Conor. ¡°Maybe Aunt Giselle will soften her heart if she sees us beg.¡±


    His wife and children dropped obediently to their knees. But Conor and his wife¡ªbothwyers, proud¡ªstood rooted to the spot. They refused to listen to Jalen.


    Conor turned away with a cold snort, grabbing his wife¡¯s hand. ¡°Come on. I¡¯m not doing this.¡±


    Jalen¡¯s voice cracked with anger. ¡°Where do you think you¡¯re going?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not kneeling,¡± Conor shot back. ¡°If you want to humiliate yourself, go ahead. But my family and I won¡¯t do it.¡±


    The words barely left his mouth before Wesley, red-faced and furious, lunged forward and struck him across the face. ¡°If you walk out that door now, you¡¯re no son of mine!¡±


    But Conor didn¡¯t even nce back. He stormed out with his family, mming the door behind him.


    Wesley eximed, ¡°Ungrateful brat! Just wait till I deal with you!¡±


    Just then, Brenna stepped forward. Her voice was steady but cold. ¡°Darrell, get them all out of here.¡±


    Darrell nodded grimly. ¡°No wonder Mrs. Harper has kept her distance from that side of the family all these years. Shameless bunch, everyst one of them.¡±


    He motioned to a few guards, who filed into the living room to escort the family out.


    Wesley wasn¡¯t done yet. He thrashed and shouted as they took hold of him. ¡°Giselle, you¡¯ve got money, power, everything¡ªand still, you won¡¯t lift a finger to help us! You¡¯re a cold-blooded woman, through and through! Your sister-inw is dying, and you just turn your back on her? You¡¯ll pay for this one day!¡±


    Darrell¡¯s patience finally snapped. ¡°That¡¯s enough!¡± He signaled one of the guards, who quickly moved to muffle Wesley¡¯s mouth.


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    Jalen yelled, desperation in his voice, ¡°Aunt Giselle, please! We¡¯ve got nowhere else to turn. If you don¡¯t help us, our whole family is finished!¡±


    Wesley¡¯s entire family was stunned by Giselle¡¯s mercilessness. She had driven them out without an ounce of pity, showing no regard even for the children.


    The two elders, both well past fifty, wailed and cursed at the gates of the Harper estate, with no regard for appearances. Momentster, they were shoved past the property line, Wesley receiving the harshest treatment of all. When Darrell noticed Wesley¡¯s wife clutching her chest in distress, he only gave her a cold shove.


    ¡°Get lost! If you dare set foot here again, I¡¯ll break your legs!¡±


    The iron gates mmed shut with a deafening ng, sealing Wesley and his family outside.


    Wesley rushed to steady his wife, whose knees nearly gave out beneath her. Rage burned in his eyes as he red at the gates. ¡°How could she do this to us? I¡¯m her brother! Has she no conscience at all? Giselle is a university professor, married to a billionaire, rubbing shoulders with the powerful¡ªhelping me would have cost her nothing! And yet, she turns her back on her own blood. She will regret this one day; mark my words!¡±


    Conor and his family helped each other to their feet. Conor didn¡¯t think it was appropriate for his father to say something like that, but he stayed silent, knowing his father¡¯s temper all too well.


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 Chapter 1641

    ?Chapter 1641:


    Jalen, however, sided with Wesley, muttering angrily as he supported his mother, ¡°Aunt Giselle has gone too far. After all these years, she still can¡¯t let go of her grudges. Some professor she is¡ªshe can¡¯t even be the least bit forgiving. Dad, we should sit right here on her doorstep and let everyone see the kind of woman she truly is!¡±


    Tonya was trembling, her face ghostly pale, sweat beading across her forehead. ¡°Where¡¯s my medicine?¡± she whispered weakly.


    Conor immediately rummaged through his bag, pulling out her pills and helping her take them. ¡°Dad, Mom is in no shape for this. We need to go home; she can¡¯t handle this kind of stress.¡±


    Conor¡¯s wife said quickly, ¡°Yes, we should take her to the hospital first. Her condition is getting worse by the minute.¡±


    But Jalen refused, saying, ¡°No way! If we leave now, it will look like we¡¯re backing down. Aunt Giselle will never see us again, and how will we ask for her help that way? We¡¯ve got nothing left¡ªno money, no power, and Mom needs treatment we can¡¯t afford. Conor, you take Mom to the hospital. I¡¯ll stay here with Dad and the kids. Uncle Shepard won¡¯t ignore us once he gets back. He won¡¯t want the neighbors talking about this.¡±


    Wesley¡¯s eyes lit up with approval. ¡°Exactly! We¡¯re not leaving. Conor, take your mother for treatment. I¡¯ll stay here with Jalen. When the Harpers return, they won¡¯t dare ignore us anymore. If I have to swallow my pride to get help, so be it.¡±


    Tonya looked terrible now, leaning heavily on Conor.


    Conor said, ¡°Dad, please, let¡¯s just all go to the hospital to take care of Mom. She doesn¡¯t need all this trouble weighing on her! We can settle thister¡ªdon¡¯t make things worse. The Harpers have all the power here. If we anger them, who knows what they¡¯ll do? I¡¯m begging you, let¡¯s not make a scene here.¡±


    His plea fell on deaf ears. Wesley¡¯s expression hardened, his voice dripping with anger. ¡°Pathetic! You can¡¯t even handle a simple task! If you won¡¯t stand with me, then leave! You¡¯re no use to this family. Get lost!¡±


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    ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll leave!¡± Conor snapped back, tightening his grip on his mother. He guided his wife and mother away without looking back.


    Jalen shot him a re, muttering curses under his breath before helping Wesley toward the flowerbed by the gates. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Dad. Conor will take care of Mom. We¡¯ll just wait here for Uncle Shepard. If we speak to him calmly, maybe he¡¯ll help us.¡±


    Wesley¡¯s anger softened slightly, and he nodded. ¡°You¡¯re the sensible one, Jalen. Not like your brother¡ªalways disappointing me.¡±


    They hadn¡¯t been sitting long when the sharp wail of sirens sliced through the air. A police car pulled up in front of the estate, and several officers stepped out briskly.


    One of them eyed them coldly. ¡°Are you the ones causing a disturbance here?¡±


    Wesley roared in fury at the officers, aggressively pushing them aside as he demanded, ¡°What do you think you¡¯re doing? Trying to arrest us? Do you know who you¡¯re dealing with here?¡±


    The officer eyed him with evident disdain, not recognizing him at all, saying sharply, ¡°Regardless of your status or connections, causing a disturbance outside a private residence is uneptable and against thew.¡±


    Rage surged through Wesley like wildfire. While he had braced himself for Giselle¡¯s resentment toward him, he had never imagined she would escte matters to the point of involving the police. This was outrageous. He despised her for leveraging her prominent position and influence to treat him like this.


    In stark contrast, Jalen maintained a steady demeanor, drawing on his experience as a public sector worker to recognize that shing withw enforcement would onlypound their problems. He urged his father to calm down, saying, ¡°Dad, please stop this. The officers are just doing their jobs in response to a call. We should cooperate fully and answer their questions honestly. You¡¯re already in enough trouble¡­¡±


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 Chapter 1642

    ?Chapter 1642:


    The officers stood resolute, issuing a stark ultimatum. ¡°Leave the premises immediately, or we¡¯ll escort you to the police station.¡±


    Wesley and his wife were gripped by profound anxiety over the potential damage to their professional reputations. As a civil employee in district administration, Wesley knew that any arrest could derail his career irreparably. His wife was a high school teacher. He feared the gossip that might spread among her students and the risk of administrative bacsh from school officials, who could suspend her from teaching if word of a police arrest leaked out. The professional and social fallout loomed disastrouslyrge.AdChoicesADVERTISING


    Without requiring additional persuasion from Jalen, Wesley relented, saying, ¡°Officers, we¡¯ll leave right away.¡± Then, he and his family reluctantly departed.


    Inside the residence, Darrell hurried back to announce breathlessly, ¡°They¡¯ve left.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s expression remained grim. She was haunted by long-buried family secrets from years past that refused to fade.


    Brenna had been offering quiet reassurance to her mother for a while. ¡°Mom, Jalen said that Uncle Wesley genuinely loved Aunt Tonya, iming it was my grandmother who shoved her, sending her crashing into the hard stone surface, which injured her badly and triggered severe bleeding. But I caught Conor whispering a different tale¡ªthat Uncle Wesley identally knocked her over himself. Mom, can you tell me what actually happened that day?¡±


    ¡°He was lying to me? How could he stoop so low? Wasn¡¯t he afraid that I might ask you about it and that the truth would be exposed?¡± Brenna¡¯s voice trembled with disbelief before turning cold. ¡°Jalen isn¡¯t just deceitful¡ªhe¡¯s a hypocrite with no depth. That show of grief he put on was nothing more than a trick to sway me.¡±


    Resolute now, she made up her mind to ask Darwin the moment she had the opportunity¡ªto learn what her uncle¡¯s family was truly like beneath their polished exterior.


    Giselle let out a weary sigh, her toneced with anger. ¡°Your grandmother took out loans back then, all to push your uncle¡¯s career forward¡ªnot to save your grandfather. Wesley admitted everything to us himself. He said your grandfather¡¯s case was hopeless, the evidence overwhelming, and no amount of bribery could change it. He wanted to use that money to secure his own promotion, iming that once he had power, he could clear your grandfather¡¯s name.¡±


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    As she continued, sorrow clouded her expression. ¡°He¡¯s always been selfish. Your grandmother sacrificed her dignity, begged and borrowed money for him, yet when she was hit by a car, he didn¡¯t even hesitate¡ªhe chose to save his wife instead of her. That man has no conscience at all.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s heart sank. Her uncle¡¯s greed seemed endless. Now, she finally understood why her mother had always kept her distance from Wesley¡¯s family, refusing to let her father or siblings get close to them.


    ¡°Mom, whatever you decide, we¡¯ll stand with you,¡± Brenna said firmly.


    Giselle gave a slow nod. ¡°Your uncle pestered your father many times before, asking for help with another promotion. I¡¯ve told your father not to give in, but I can sense your uncle wille begging him again soon.¡±


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll call Dad right now,¡± Brenna replied, already reaching for her phone.


    Wesley¡¯s wifey fast asleep in her hospital bed, the IV drip humming softly beside her.


    With his money run dry, he had no choice but to keep her in a cramped ward shared with three other patients, each battling liver disease of their own. The treatment alone cost hundreds a day, and what little savings the Bentley family had were nearly gone. They managed to stay afloat only because Conor had arranged for the day¡¯s earnings from thew firm to be transferred to the hospital.


    In the dim hospital corridor, Wesley spoke with his sons, his face heavy with worry and defeat. If there had been any other choice, he would never have swallowed his pride or risked his position by causing a scene at the Harper family¡¯s residence.


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 Chapter 1643

    ?Chapter 1643:


    ¡°We¡¯ve run out of options. We¡¯ll have to turn to your aunt¡¯s family for help. We can¡¯t handle this alone.¡± Wesley¡¯s gaze settled on Jalen. ¡°Tomorrow, we¡¯ll go to the Harper Group together. There¡¯s no way Shepard could be that heartless.¡±


    ¡°All right, Dad, I¡¯m with you. We¡¯ll go tomorrow with Conor.¡± Jalen stood by his father¡¯s choice without hesitation.


    Conor, however, thought the whole n was shameful. Though he wanted to argue, he knew his opinion no longer mattered. His tone was t when he finally spoke. ¡°Do whatever you want, but I¡¯m staying out of it.¡±


    Wesley¡¯s temper red at once. ¡°Worthless! You¡¯re nothing but a burden¡ªI can¡¯t rely on you for a single thing!¡±


    Furious, Conor gathered his wife and children and walked away, not even ncing toward his mother¡¯s ward. He had decided he would no longer interfere. Whatever happened next, he would stay out of it.


    Jalen stayed through the night, tending to his mother¡¯s needs. After breakfast the next morning, he left his wife to watch over his mother and followed Wesley to the Harper Group headquarters.


    It was Monday, the day of thepany¡¯s weekly meeting. Shepard, who had long stepped back from daily operations, sat quietly at the side while Ernst led the meeting.


    Barely ten minutes had passed when the secretary entered the room and leaned toward Shepard, speaking in a low voice. ¡°Two people are here to see you. Their names are Wesley Bentley and Jalen Bentley. They¡¯re at the reception desk. One of them ims to be your wife¡¯s brother.¡±


    Shepard¡¯s expression remainedposed. With so many executives observing, he couldn¡¯t afford to let his emotions show. Rising from his seat, he turned to Ernst. ¡°You¡¯ll handle the meeting on your own today.¡±


    Ernst didn¡¯t quite understand what was happening, but an interruption from the secretary during a meeting was never trivial. He gave her a questioning look, and she leaned close to whisper the details to him.


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    At once, Ernst¡¯s face hardened. ¡°Dad, why don¡¯t we just kick them out?¡±


    His tone was tinged with irritation. Their shameless pestering disgusted him.


    Shepard stayed calm. ¡°I¡¯ll deal with it myself. You continue the meeting.¡±


    ¡°Understood,¡± Ernst said with a frown, ncing at the executives who were already exchanging curious looks. He shot them a hard look, his anger evident. At once, the executives lowered their heads, pretending to focus on their documents.


    Meanwhile, Shepard left the conference room and made his way toward his office. ¡°Bring them up,¡± he ordered the secretary.


    Within ten minutes, Wesley and Jalen were led inside Shepard¡¯s office, the tension in the room thick as the door closed behind them.


    The office was spacious and elegantly designed, every detail reflecting Shepard¡¯s quiet power as he sat behind his desk. Even Wesley, who held authority as a county executive, felt the weight of Shepard¡¯s presence pressing on him. He managed a polite smile to mask his unease.


    ¡°Shepard, your office is remarkable.¡± Though Wesley had visited the Harper Group building many times before, he had never been allowed past the reception area. This was his first glimpse inside Shepard¡¯s office.


    Unlike his father, Jalen¡¯s thoughts were already racing toward ambition. He pictured himself one day owning an office of this caliber. Determined, he made a silent promise to stay on his aunt and uncle¡¯s good side.


    He greeted Shepard politely, holding out a cigarette with both hands.


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 Chapter 1644

    ?Chapter 1644:


    Shepard epted it, deciding to deal with the matter for Giselle¡¯s sake. ¡°Sit down.¡±


    A momentter, the secretary entered with two cups of coffee. The fragrance filled the room, rich and unmistakably refined. Wesley and Jalen, who recognized quality when they saw it, immediately understood¡ªthe coffee beans had to cost at least six hundred dors a pound.


    Shepard¡¯s opinion of Wesley and his son was anything but good. He saw Wesley for what he truly was¡ªa self-serving, cold-hearted man.


    With a furrowed brow, Shepard awaited Wesley¡¯s words, his steely gaze unsettling the man.


    ¡°Shepard, I¡¯m at my wits¡¯ end, with no one else to turn to,¡± Wesley said, his voice tinged with desperation. ¡°I¡¯vended in deep trouble. Without your help, I¡¯m facing ruin¡ªpossibly a lifetime behind bars. It would tarnish not just me, but you as well. Giselle, being a respected professor, values her standing in themunity. For her sake, I¡¯m begging you to help me.¡±


    He fumbled with his phone, pulling up his bank ount bnce for Shepard to see. ¡°Look, I¡¯m being straight with you. I¡¯ve got multiple cards, but there¡¯s barely three hundred dors left to my name.¡±


    Shepard nced at the phone screen. Indeed, the ounts tallied to just over three hundred dors. Wesley wasn¡¯t lying about this, but since he was a government official, who could say whether other hidden ounts existed?


    ¡°What¡¯s the trouble?¡± Shepard asked, well aware that as a county executive, Wesley enjoyed a host of privileges. Such a paltry bnce hinted at something seriously awry.


    Wesley met Shepard¡¯s piercing stare, feeling as though his every thought wasid bare, a deep unease stirring within him. He could do nothing but speak the truth¡ªhow else could he hope to gain any aid?


    Bracing himself, he began, ¡°You know I¡¯m the county executive overseeing Shirie¡¯s Larkspur District. Lately, high-tech projects have poured in, each requiring my approval. I¡¯ve overseen several, including the shantytown renovations and the high-tech park. These are massive undertakings, with funds totaling thirty billion flowing through my hands. I figured skimming a little wouldn¡¯t hurt. After all, doesn¡¯t everyone dip into the pot these days? I only took a small portion.¡±


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    Shepard let out a scornful huff. Wesley¡¯s despicable actions came as no surprise to him. ¡°How much did you take?¡±


    Wesley caught the contempt in Shepard¡¯s eyes and felt a surge of resentment. The Harper Group¡¯s empire was vast¡ªsurely, Shepard had greased palms to climb thedder. Did he truly think himself above reproach?


    Wesley even thought that maybe Shepard had done worse to be this powerful. Yet he kept those thoughts tightly reined, muttering curses only inwardly.


    He held up two fingers.


    Shepard¡¯s tone dripped with sarcasm. ¡°Two billion, is it?¡±


    ¡°No, no!¡± Wesley hastened to rify. ¡°Two hundred million. Since the prosecutor started sniffing around, I¡¯ve scrambled to cover it. But over the years, I¡¯ve squandered plenty. I sold my house, my car, and drained my savings. It¡¯s still not enough. My family is holed up in a cramped two-bedroom apartment now. I¡¯ve done all I can, Shepard. I can¡¯t face prison. I know you¡¯re rich¡ªplease, help me out. I¡¯ll be grateful to you forever.¡±


    ¡°What else have you done?¡± Shepard asked, his voice sharp. ¡°You¡¯d better not be hiding anything. Have you done anything that got someone killed?¡±


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 Chapter 1645

    ?Chapter 1645:


    If lives were at stake, that would change everything.


    ¡°No, nothing like that,¡± Wesley assured him. ¡°It was just the money.¡±


    Sensing Shepard¡¯s inclination to help, Wesley felt a glimmer of hope, convinced he hade to the right ce.


    Exasperated by the conversation, Shepard just wanted to dismiss Wesley and Jalen quickly. He pulled out his phone and dialed a number, the call connecting almost instantly.


    ¡°Mr. Atkinson!¡± Shepard greeted.


    A warm, cordial voice¡ªthe mayor¡¯s¡ªflowed through the line. ¡°Shepard, what has prompted you to call me today?¡±


    Shepard let out a soft chuckle. ¡°Can¡¯t I ring you up just to chat? Is now a good time?¡±


    The faint hum of voices and activity in the background hinted that the mayor was in a bustling environment. Understanding what Shepard meant, the mayor signaled for those in his office to leave.


    ¡°Shepard, go ahead and say what¡¯s on your mind,¡± he said.


    Shepard cut to the chase. ¡°Are you aware of Wesley¡¯s situation?¡±


    The mayor didn¡¯t hesitate. ¡°Yes, I¡¯m in the loop. It¡¯s embezzlement, tangled up with bribery. The investigation is still underway, but results shoulde through next week. Word is, he¡¯s looking at about twenty years in prison.¡±


    As Darwin¡¯s father, the mayor had known Shepard and Giselle for years, their friendship a longstanding bond.


    Wesley¡¯s face paled as the prospect of spending twenty years behind bars hit him. He dropped heavily onto the couch, arms and legs limp with shock. For a moment, he just sat there. Then, he pushed himself up, clutching the edge of the table for support, eyes frantic.


    ¡°Shepard, I really need you to help me,¡± he said, his voice trembling. ¡°I know I made mistakes. I know I crossed a line, but I can¡¯t handle a sentence that long. If I end up in prison, my whole family will pay the price. My son¡¯s future will be ruined. Politics will be out of his reach for good.¡±


    Without a word, Shepard stared at him, aplicated mix of emotions ying across his face. ¡°I¡¯m trying to help you here. Just be patient.¡±


    He spoke in a low voice, but the mayor on the other end of the call still heard his words.


    ¡°Shepard, how are you connected to Wesley?¡± asked the mayor, his curiosity clear.


    Shepard gestured for Wesley to settle back down. ¡°He¡¯s my wife¡¯s brother, and he¡¯s desperate not tond in prison,¡± he exined, choosing his words carefully.


    The mayor understood the situation immediately. ¡°Shepard, this is the first time I¡¯ve seen you step up for someone in the political world. Looks like you might need a few tips. Prison is almost a certainty here¡ªembezzlement and bribery don¡¯t just go away. Still, there¡¯s a small chance we can shave some years off his sentence.¡±


    Wesley¡¯s hopes took a nosedive when he heard that, the weight of his choices settling in. Now, not only would his life be ruined, but his son¡¯s future would be destroyed as well. Regret seemed etched into every line of his face.


    Shepard asked, ¡°How could we do that?¡±


    A more serious tone crept into the mayor¡¯s voice. ¡°The main issue is the misuse of public funds. Thirty million has been paid back, but there¡¯s still one hundred ny million missing. If you cover the rest, there¡¯s a chance to cut his time by eight or ten years.¡±


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 Chapter 1646

    ?Chapter 1646:


    Shepard didn¡¯t hesitate. ¡°If I can pay off the bnce, can we get the sentence even lower?¡±


    Years of experience had made the mayor familiar with political scandals. He¡¯d seen many rise and fall, and he knew how rare it was to avoid consequences.


    ¡°That would be nearly impossible, unless there¡¯s proof he never took any bribes,¡± said the mayor.


    Shepard caught the mayor¡¯s drift right away, a heaviness settling over him.


    Hopelessness swept through Wesley as tears streamed down his face while Shepard ended the call. ¡°That¡¯s it. Everything they need to convict me is already in their hands. There¡¯s no way I¡¯m getting out of this,¡± Wesley muttered.


    A wave of desperation hit, and he dropped to his knees. ¡°Shepard, you¡¯re my only hope. I know what money can do. If anyone can turn this around, it¡¯s you. Please, I¡¯m begging you to help me.¡±


    From his chair, Shepard¡¯s cold stare cut through any remaining hope Wesley had. ¡°There¡¯s nothing left to change. The proof against you is overwhelming. All I can do is cover what you still owe. After that, you¡¯re on your own.¡±


    He thought of Giselle¡¯s warnings¡ªshe¡¯d made it clear he shouldn¡¯t get involved with her family¡¯s problems. Even stepping in today was crossing a line, and unease was already weighing on him. He would not go any further for Wesley.


    He continued, ¡°That¡¯s it. I¡¯ve done all I can. Even if I wanted to do more, there¡¯s just nothing left to try. It¡¯s time for you to leave.¡±


    Jalen watched everything unfold, and the reality finally hit him¡ªhis father was still going to prison.


    Desperation pushed him to his knees as well. ¡°Uncle Shepard, we¡¯re desperate now. I¡¯m begging you, please help us. There has to be something we can do. What if the evidence were destroyed or something?¡±


    Shepard knew Jalen was clever, but he only ever looked out for himself, never thinking about the bigger picture.


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    ¡°You want me to break thew now? You really think I¡¯d go that far? That¡¯s enough. Get out of my office.¡± Shepard¡¯s voice rang out as he called to his secretary, ¡°Show them out.¡±


    Momentster, the secretary and a pair of guards stepped in, pulling both men up and guiding them out of the room.


    Once Ernst¡¯s meeting wrapped up, he got word of what had happened and rushed over to Shepard¡¯s office.


    ¡°You know, Dad, Mom¡¯s not going to be happy about this.¡±


    Shepard let out a sigh. ¡°That may be true, but if I don¡¯t step in, Wesley will just keep pestering her. Remember when he got moved to the district and made a scene at her school? The fallout was a mess. Your mom¡¯s nearly retired¡ªI¡¯m not letting herst years get ruined. Let¡¯s keep this between us, all right?¡±


    As Brenna nned to head to her workce early in the morning, Ethan pulled up outside the Harpers¡¯ grand residence, greeting her with a rxed grin and a casual invitation to join him in the car.


    Brenna instructed Gary to follow them in her vehicle before sliding into the passenger seat beside Ethan.


    ¡°You¡¯re not busy anymore?¡± Brenna asked.


    Ethan¡¯s mood was unusually upbeat today, thanks to his brother and sister-inw finally emerging from the deep sorrow of losing their baby and rmitting to their careers. Kenny had told him that he and Rosanna intended to try for another child soon, a hopeful step forward.


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 Chapter 1647

    ?Chapter 1647:


    At the same time, Elsa had discovered renewed meaning in life. Ethan had funded sponsorships for underprivileged kids and helped construct educational facilities in a far-off region, prompting Elsa to journey there and teach the young ones music, an activity that filled her with genuine happiness. With no one nagging him all the time, Ethan felt a lot better.


    ¡°I¡¯ve cleared all my piled-up tasks. Brenna, have you been busy these past few days?¡±AdChoicesADVERTISING


    It was only the previous evening that Ethan noticed they hadn¡¯t chatted in days, leaving him to wonder if he had unintentionally upset her. So, rushing through a quick bite of breakfast that morning, he made a beeline for her home.


    His gaze softened with affection as he looked at her.


    Brenna offered a faint smile, her tone calm and unreadable. ¡°Not busy at all. Why do you ask?¡±


    Ethan blinked, momentarily confused. If she hadn¡¯t been upied, then why hadn¡¯t she contacted him these past few days? That wasn¡¯t like her. Brenna might not have been overly expressive, but she was never indifferent without a reason. Something was definitely wrong.


    Instead of driving off, Ethan reached out and gently sped her hand. ¡°Brenna, if something is bothering you, or if I did something wrong, please, just tell me.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s eyes flickered briefly toward him. ¡°Are you sure you want to know?¡±AdChoicesADVERTISING


    The question hit Ethan like a punch to the chest. Something had indeed happened.


    ¡°Yes, tell me,¡± he said softly.


    Brenna tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear and spoke withposed restraint. ¡°Your mother thinks we¡¯re not suitable for each other. She actually went to a psychic who told her that ever since we started dating, your family has been cursed with bad luck¡ªyour brother losing his child, your father, too. She mes me for all of it. She says I bring misfortune to your family. ording to her, we really shouldn¡¯t be together.¡±


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    Ethan¡¯s expression darkened immediately. He hadn¡¯t expected Elsa to go that far¡ªor believe in something so absurd. His brow furrowed. ¡°Brenna, don¡¯t take her seriously. None of those things has anything to do with you.¡±


    He brought her hand to his chest, his voice firm but tender. ¡°You know how my mom is, always looking for trouble. She doesn¡¯t get to choose who I marry. Let¡¯s just stick to our n, okay? We¡¯ll go ahead with the destination wedding in two months.¡±


    But Brenna¡¯s demeanor didn¡¯t soften. Her tone remained steady and unyielding. ¡°We can do thatter. My parents think I¡¯m still too young, and honestly, waiting a few years to get married isn¡¯t unreasonable. Don¡¯t worry, Ethan¡ªI¡¯m not breaking up with you. I just want to postpone the wedding for now.¡±


    Relief washed over Ethan. For a moment, he had feared she was going to end things entirely. As long as she still wanted to be with him, he could live with the dy.


    Still, a lingering thought gnawed at him¡ªBrenna probably didn¡¯t love him enough. Otherwise, why would she be willing to postpone their marriage? He pushed the thought aside for now.


    ¡°All right, Brenna, I respect your decision.¡± He leaned forward, brushing a soft kiss against her lips, his palming to rest at the curve of her neck. ¡°Trust me. I¡¯ll talk to my mom and deal with this.¡±


    He knew the Harper family still had reservations about him, and unless he fixed the matter, he would never be able to marry Brenna.


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 Chapter 1648

    ?Chapter 1648:


    As they arrived at thepany and stepped through the doors, a voice rang out behind them. ¡°Ethan! I¡¯m back!¡±


    They turned toward the voice.


    Standing there, very much alive, was Gracie.


    Both Brenna and Ethan stared at her, their expressions cold, revealing nothing more than mild surprise.


    Gracie, however, was radiant with excitement. She had narrowly escaped Hector¡¯s grasp, and an unexpected explosion had wiped away the traces of his death, so no one woulde after her.


    Brenna had abandoned her before, and she wasn¡¯t one to forgive or forget. She was determined to take Ethan from Brenna to get back at her.


    Gracie smiled brightly at Ethan and Brenna, as if their past had never existed at all.


    ¡°Why are you here, Gracie?¡± Ethan asked, his tone cutting. Not a trace of warmth lingered in his eyes. The memory of her attempt to harm Brenna still burned vividly in his mind. She might have failed, but he had seen through every ounce of malice behind her act.


    He ced a steady hand on Brenna¡¯s shoulder and pulled her closer, holding her protectively. Together, they stood side by side, their closeness impossible to ignore.


    The scene struck Gracie like a blow. Difort twisted within her. Why did Ethan look at her with such cold hostility? Did he truly feel no guilt for abandoning her to struggle alone in the wild?


    Fury boiled beneath Gracie¡¯s calm exterior. She hadn¡¯t even confronted them, yet Ethan stood there acting as though she would hurt Brenna or something. She was the one who had been wronged, so why did he behave as if Brenna were the victim?


    Gracie¡¯s voice trembled with restrained anger. ¡°Ethan, before you left for Norview, you gave me your word about letting me work in yourpany. Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯ve forgotten about that already.¡±


    Ethan let out a derisive snort, his re cutting through her like ice. ¡°And when exactly did I ever agree to that?¡±


    Gracie froze, unable to find words. The realization struck her hard¡ªEthan had never truly agreed back then, nor had he refused her outright.


    ¡°Ethan, you can¡¯t treat me this way. Back in Norview, I nearly lost my life to save you. How can you be so heartless to me now?¡±


    Her face contorted in distress as she stepped forward, reaching for Ethan¡¯s hand in desperation. But Ethan stepped back with Brenna, avoiding her touch.


    Gracie¡¯s heart ached until she could no longer contain the pain. Tears streamed freely down her face, each drop carrying a silent plea for Ethan to feel guilty toward her.


    She said, ¡°Ethan, please don¡¯t treat me this way. I almost died out there because of you and Brenna. How can you both be so cruel?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s expression remained impassive, untouched by Gracie¡¯s desperate disy. She had witnessed Gracie¡¯s maniptions too many times before to be swayed by tears now.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go, Ethan,¡± Brenna said calmly, turning toward the elevator.


    Ethan¡¯s gaze didn¡¯t waver from Gracie. His voice was firm and unforgiving. ¡°Don¡¯t think I haven¡¯t seen through you. You tried to kill Brenna, and that was why she treated you that way. I won¡¯t keep someone like you near me. You¡¯ve forgotten that Brenna was the one who looked after you before. And you repaid her with betrayal. You¡¯re the cruel one, Gracie.¡±


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 Chapter 1649

    ?Chapter 1649:


    Ethan¡¯s hand came to rest on Brenna¡¯s shoulder as he followed her toward the elevator.


    But Gracie refused to give up. Desperation drove her to run after them, blocking their way. She dropped to her knees again, determined that everyone nearby would witness their heartlessness toward her.


    ¡°Ethan, I was wrong! Tell me what I have to do for you to forgive me!¡±


    ¡°How absurd! You tried to kill me, and now you stand here begging for forgiveness? You think I¡¯d let you stay near me after that? Do you really believe I¡¯m that foolish?¡± Brenna¡¯s tone was cold.


    Ethan¡¯s gaze moved across the lobby,nding on the guards and the receptionists who stood frozen in ce. His voice rang out, low andmanding. ¡°What are you standing around for? Get her out of here right now. From this day forward, she¡¯s banned from entering the Mitchell Group.¡±


    Gracie had anticipated this. Moving swiftly, she pulled a knife from her bag and held it to her neck. ¡°Ethan, if you send me away, I¡¯ll kill myself. I stood by you once. Without me, the Mitchell Group would never be as sessful. Is this how you repay me? You all loathe me and cast me aside, but I could forgive everything. However, have you wondered how I managed to survive this time? Do you even realize what I¡¯ve done for you?¡±


    Ethan let out a cold scoff. ¡°Do you really think threatening to kill yourself will change my mind? Quit this nonsense.¡±


    At his signal, the security guards moved without hesitation. Trained to act fast, they caught Gracie off guard, snatched the knife from her hand, and dragged her toward the exit.


    Still unwilling to give up, Gracie clung to thest shred of her n. Every word she¡¯d rehearsed to sway Ethan raced through her mind. She hit the floor hard but paid no attention to the pain. Pushing herself up, she tried to approach Ethan again, only to be blocked by the guards.


    ¡°You¡¯re only making things harder for yourself. Please leave,¡± said one of the guards politely. Though his tone carried respect for her former role as vice president, his stance made it clear she was no longer wee.


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    Gracie¡¯s temper red. ¡°Step aside! I helped build thispany. Who do you think you are to stop me?¡±


    The guards remained unmoved, their expressions unreadable. ¡°Escort her out.¡±


    The guards moved in sync as they ushered Gracie out of the Mitchell Group building. Employees arriving for work froze at the sight, exchanging puzzled nces. It was clear to everyone that Gracie had fallen from grace, abandoned by both Ethan and Brenna. The cold, decisive way Ethan had handled her left no room for misunderstanding.


    Realizing that her n hadpletely crumbled, Gracie had no choice but to leave. Once inside her car, she tried calling Ethan, hoping for even a brief chance to talk to him. But she soon found out that he had blocked her number.


    ¡°How could he do this to me?¡± she cried out, covering her face as tears slipped through her fingers.


    Inside the elevator, Ethan¡¯s tone softened. ¡°Brenna, I¡¯ll never allow her to hurt you again.¡±


    Curiosity flickered in Brenna¡¯s eyes. ¡°It¡¯s astonishing she¡¯s still alive. I can¡¯t help but wonder who pulled her out of that mess. I was certain she wouldn¡¯t make it.¡±


    Ethan nodded. ¡°She should have died that day. If she darese near you again, I won¡¯t hold back.¡±


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 Chapter 1650

    Chapter 1650:


    Back in her apartment, Gracie sat fuming, hatred simmering beneath her calm surface. She couldn¡¯t let go of Ethan, but this time, he had truly shut her out. Slumping onto the sofa, she sank into silence, her mind spinning for a way to get close to him again.


    Her face hardened with resolve, every thought sharp and deliberate as she sat motionless for what felt like an eternity. Eventually, reality settled in. There was no way back into the Mitchell Group. If she wanted to see Ethan again, she would have to move through the same business circles he dominated. Wherever Ethan ced his investments, she would follow¡ªand challenge him head-on.


    She was confident that with tens of billions at hermand, she would find a way to reach Ethan. Sooner orter, a chance woulde¡ªof that she was certain. The thought struck her with sudden rity, and she knew exactly what she needed to do.


    She had yet to set foot in the shops that Waldo had ced under her name. The moment had arrived for her to start a business of her own. With her talent and determination, sess was well within her grasp. She believed that someday, she would rise to stand on equal ground with Ethan, matching his power.


    She dabbed away her tears, refreshed her makeup, and drove off to check the shops under her ownership.


    When noon arrived, she went to a restaurant for lunch and took a seat at a quiet table. A familiar figure caught her eye a few tables away, though she couldn¡¯t quite ce where she had seen the person before. She paid little attention until a man approached and sat across from the person.


    ¡°Miss Harper, I¡¯m sorry for beingte. The traffic was terrible,¡± the man said.


    Gracie recognized the man¡ªJordy. And then, it clicked. The person was Sandra, Brenna¡¯s half-sister.


    At that moment, an idea began forming in Gracie¡¯s mind. She knew how to deal with Ethan and Brenna now.


    As Sandra looked at Jordy, she suddenly noticed his striking good looks. d in a tailored suit, he radiated affluence and sophistication, his neatly styled hair lending him the aura of a polished tycoon.


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    Beyond his notoriety as a charming womanizer with a trail of romantic escapades, he appeared virtually wless. Wealthy, maic, and skilled at winning hearts, he seemed almost perfect.


    Sandra¡¯s eyes rested on him briefly, and she felt nearly persuaded by his earlier derations of affection. Regrettably, Jordy was Brenna¡¯s ex-boyfriend, a fact Sandra couldn¡¯t overlook. If she were to pursue a rtionship with him, the Harper family would undoubtedly disapprove.


    ¡°No worries. I¡¯ve gone ahead and ordered your preferred dishes,¡± Sandra said.


    It felt like a courteous gesture. Jordy sensed a shift in Sandra¡¯s demeanor¡ªher gaze softened, her attitude toward him noticeably warmer.


    From his coat pocket, Jordy produced a velvet case, presenting it to Sandra with a warm smile. ¡°During my business trip abroadst week, I found a stunning ne that perfectly matches your elegance, and I couldn¡¯t resist buying it for you.¡±


    Sandra always looked forward to Jordy¡¯s thoughtful presents. At every meeting, he offered her something meticulously selected and valuable, yet she consistently declined, resolute in resisting his advances.


    This time, Jordy braced for another courteous rejection. To his astonishment, Sandra epted the gift, her face glowing with delight.


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 Chapter 1651

    ?Chapter 1651:


    Could she be reconsidering things between them? Was she finally open to his courtship? A surge of excitement coursed through Jordy. Did this mean he was closer to securing a ce in the Harper family?


    Recently, hispetitors had snatched several lucrative deals that he had pursued, and his business seemed stuck, limited to mid-tier projects and overlooked by industry giants for major ventures. With the Harper family¡¯s support, he could break into the elite business circles, elevate his career, and join Sharie¡¯s upper crust. He might even surpass the Russells among Sharie¡¯s top families.


    Sandra¡¯s feelings were conflicted. The ne was valuable¡ªthe royal jade stone was exquisite, likely worth millions. For a while, she had toyed with the idea of giving in to Jordy¡¯s pursuit, but his history with Brenna and his string of exes made her hesitate.


    Yet, holding thevish ne, she felt a man¡¯s genuine care for the first time.


    Noticing her willingness to ept the gift, Jordy stood swiftly, moved behind her, and lifted the ne. ¡°Allow me to put it on you.¡±


    Sandra didn¡¯t object, happilyplying.


    Standing close, Jordy¡¯s faint cologne blended with his natural scent, sending a flutter through Sandra¡¯s heart.


    ¡°All set.¡± Jordy turned to look at her. ¡°It¡¯s perfect. It¡¯s like the ne was made just for you.¡±


    Sandra pulled out her phone, opened the camera, and studied herself on the screen. The ne looked absolutely exquisite. Jordy¡¯s sincere and generous pursuit made Sandra feel that turning him away might seem too cold.


    For the first time, she had epted such an extravagant gift, and her joy was uncontainable, a smile spreading across her face. ¡°Thank you, Mr. Barton. I truly love it.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m d you do.¡± Jordy knew patience was key. epting the ne didn¡¯t mean he had instantly be part of the Harper family¡ªthat was wishful thinking. He resolved to proceed gradually, confident he could win Sandra¡¯s heart within a year.


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    ¡°Mr. Barton, how is yourpany faring these days?¡± Sandra asked with genuine interest.


    ¡°It¡¯s going well. And how are your new storesing along?¡± Jordy said.


    Sandra gave a small shake of her head. ¡°Rather ordinary. CloudPath brings in a few hundred thousand each day, but the profit margin hovers around thirty percent. It doesn¡¯tpare to the earnings from my old menswear store. The brand targets mid-to-low-end consumers, so the average transaction value stays low. If things continue like this, my monthly profit will barely hit four to five hundred thousand, which is still below what I used to make from menswear. Mr. Barton, with your business background, do you have any advice for me?¡±


    Jordy slowly shook his head. ¡°The apparel industry isn¡¯t what it used to be. Running physical shops has be even more challenging. Since your store is still new, you should let it find its footing first. Earning about five hundred thousand a month is already impressive, especially when most clothing retailers are barely managing to stay afloat.¡±


    Sandra let out a weary sigh and shook her head once more. ¡°This shop belongs to me. If I were renting, there would be almost nothing left after paying the rent. I¡¯m such a disappointment, Mr. Barton. Maybe business just isn¡¯t meant for me. Do you think I¡¯ve been foolish? I had a thriving menswear business, yet I gave it up to chase something new, and now I¡¯m worse off than before. If anyone knew my real situation, they¡¯dugh at me.¡±


    She had made a terrible mistake, and she knew it.


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 Chapter 1652

    ?Chapter 1652:


    Jordy¡¯s voice was calm and reassuring as he tried to lift her spirits. ¡°Don¡¯t be discouraged. Nearly ny-five percent of first ventures fail. Considering that, you¡¯ve done far better than most.¡±


    Sandra couldn¡¯t shake her gloom. The Harper family had asked her not to do that long ago, but she had refused to listen. Even though they kept their silence now, she was sure theyughed at her behind her back. She had no desire to speak to anyone in the Harper family now.


    ¡°No, I¡¯ve done terribly. I lost five million just during the opening promotion. I don¡¯t even know how long it¡¯ll take to make that back. My high-end bespoke boutique hasn¡¯t received a single order in nearly a month. No one appreciates my designs. I honestly feel like such a failure.¡±


    Her voice trembled, and tears began to spill before she could stop them.


    Jordy remained patient, his tone gentle as he continued to console her.


    Gracie listened intently from nearby, every word deepening her interest. A n was already forming in her mind¡ªshe would find a way to approach Sandra and also speak with Jordy.


    Jordy was skilled atforting women. By the end of the meal, he had lifted Sandra¡¯s spirits. He asked Sandra to put together a few sets of summer outfits for him. He even went further, promising to introduce her brand to some of his friends.


    Sandra¡¯s spirits lifted at once, the earlier heaviness in her heart reced by fresh enthusiasm.


    Later that evening, she returned home just before ten. Brenna had also arrived home, and her eyes immediately caught the gleam of the ornate ne around Sandra¡¯s neck. It didn¡¯t impress her much¡ªher own jewelry was just as extravagant. She gave the ne a quick nce before offering a faint smile.


    ¡°Your ne is lovely.¡±


    For once, Sandra felt she wasn¡¯t beneath the Harpers anymore. ¡°Mr. Barton gave it to me. He brought it back from overseas. The green stone is genuine, top-grade jadeite.¡±


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    Brenna let out a soft hum, her response casual at best. ¡°It suits you.¡±


    But behind herposed expression, her thoughts were already churning. The gift seemed too extravagant for a casual gesture, and she couldn¡¯t help but wonder if something was going on between Sandra and Jordy.


    Brenna¡¯s face grew cold, though she kept herposure. There was no reason toment¡ªher rtionship with Jordy had ended long ago, and whoever he was seeing now had nothing to do with her.


    She moved toward the kitchen, poured herself a ss of warm water, and prepared to head upstairs. Before she could leave, Julia approached with her usual calm tone.


    ¡°Miss Harper, a package arrived from Mr. Dalton Harper overseas for you. I ced it in your room.¡±


    Brenna gave a short nod and started up the stairs.


    Sandra felt displeased as she went upstairs with Brenna. What could Dalton have possibly sent Brenna? Was it a present? Why hadn¡¯t he sent one for her as well?


    Curiosity got the better of her, and Sandra asked, ¡°Brenna, what did Dalton send you?¡±


    ¡°Nothing extravagant, just a bracelet.¡±


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 Chapter 1653

    ?Chapter 1653:


    Before Dalton¡¯s trip overseas, Brenna had given him a rescue robot designed for emergencies in remote areas¡ªa gift that ended up saving his entire team when danger struck. In return, Dalton had sent Brenna the bracelet as a token of gratitude.


    ¡°Can I see it?¡± Sandra asked, her tone light but her mind already racing. She knew that in the Harper family, the phrase ¡°nothing extravagant¡± usually described something worth millions.


    If the bracelet had truly been cheap¡ªmerely a few hundred or even a few thousand¡ªthey wouldn¡¯t have given it a second nce.


    ¡°Of course,¡± Brenna agreed without hesitation.


    She and Sandra made their way to her bedroom, where a courier box rested on the desk. Brenna opened the ps. Inside,yers of bubble wrap guarded something fragile and precious.


    As she unwrapped it carefully, the faint shimmer of red packaging appeared. She flipped open the lid, and nestled inside was an emerald bracelet. Under the warm glow of themp, the gemstone glimmered softly, casting green reflections that danced along the room¡¯s walls.


    It was breathtaking. The kind of beauty that demanded silence, as if words would only cheapen it. To call it beautiful would have been too simple.


    Although Sandra knew little about jade, she could still recognize the difference between her own ne and Brenna¡¯s bracelet. Both were emerald, yet the stones on the bracelet gleamed with a rity and brilliance that made hers seem dull inparison.


    Even without asking, she understood the bracelet had to cost a fortune. The bracelet looked so exquisite, so valuable, that she couldn¡¯t take her eyes off it. She admired it deeply, her fingers twitching with the urge to touch it, yet she held back. The thought of even a scratch made her stomach tighten. If she broke it, no apology or payment could make up for it.


    Under Sandra¡¯s envious gaze, Brenna fastened the bracelet around her left wrist. The cool green stone seemed toe alive against her smooth skin. This was the real thing. The kind of masterpiece that collectors fought over.


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    What did hers even count as now? A cheap trinket?


    Moments ago, she had been proud of it, believing the ne was a fine piece, maybe evenparable to what the Harper family might wear. But as she looked at Brenna¡¯s bracelet, the illusion shattered. Only then did she understand how naive she had been and how narrow her sense of luxury was. She had neverid eyes on anything truly fine in her life before.


    ¡°It¡¯s so beautiful!¡± she gasped, her gaze glued to the bracelet on Brenna¡¯s wrist.


    Brenna set the empty red box aside, and beneath it, a slip of paper peeked out. It was a delivery receipt from the auction house. Sandra¡¯s eyesnded on it by chance. Before she could stop herself, curiosity tugged at her hand, and she picked it up. Her eyes scanned the printed numbers. The first digit was a one. The second, an eight. Then came a long, dizzying line of zeros.


    She blinked and counted. Seven zeros.


    ¡°My God, a bracelet for 180 million!¡± Sandra blurted out, her jaw nearly dropping as she stared at the slip in disbelief. Her mind reeled, and before she could stop herself, the words tumbled out. ¡°How can a bracelet in this world be that expensive?¡±


    Brenna lifted her wrist slightly and turned it under the warm light. ¡°There isn¡¯t a single w in it. No cloudiness, no cottony threads inside. It¡¯spletely clear. That¡¯s why it¡¯s worth the price.¡±


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 Chapter 1654

    ?Chapter 1654:


    ¡°I see¡­ I didn¡¯t know jewelry could cost that much. It¡¯s¡­ unbelievably expensive.¡± Sandra tried to smile, but faltered halfway. No matter how hard she worked, she could never bridge the gulf between herself, the illegitimate daughter, and Brenna.


    Brenna nodded, her eyes never leaving the bracelet. ¡°It is indeed quite lovely.¡±


    Sandra couldn¡¯t quite wrap her head around it. The thought of Dalton gifting Brenna something so expensive made no sense to her. After a moment of hesitation, she asked curiously, ¡°Why did Dalton give you this?¡±


    Brenna lifted her gaze briefly, then removed the bracelet from her wrist. She set it gently back into the velvet box and answered, ¡°I gave him a spherical robot for self-defense once, along with a military-gradebat drone. He was filming out at sea when pirates attacked. He used the drone and the robot I designed to fight them off and ended up saving the entire crew. This bracelet¡¯s his way of thanking me.¡±


    ¡°So that¡¯s how it is.¡± Sandra nodded slowly. She understood the value of saving lives, but even so, the gesture seemed too much. A gift this expensive for gratitude alone? She couldn¡¯t even imagine putting that kind of money into Jordy¡¯s business ventures, let alone into a bracelet.


    Yet there were people who could hand out gifts worth that much without a second thought.


    ¡°Then it¡¯s indeed right to give a gift to express gratitude,¡± Sandra said atst. She forced a polite smile, though the words tasted bitter. After exchanging a few more pleasantries, she found a reason to excuse herself and left.


    Once alone, Brenna turned back to the courier box and checked carefully to see if anything else had been packed inside. Seeing that nothing else was there, she closed it and set it aside.


    The next morning, she wore the emerald bracelet around her wrist, then headed out. When Ethan arrived to pick her up, he caught sight of it.


    ¡°That¡¯s beautiful,¡± he remarked as Brenna got into the car. He reached over, gently took her hand, and turned it so the bracelet caught the light.


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    ¡°Dalton gave it to me,¡± Brenna exined. ¡°I thought it was pretty, so I decided to wear it.¡±


    Ethan nodded and ordered Neville to start driving. He then nced again at the bracelet and said, ¡°I¡¯ll give you one, too. Something to match it.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s lips curved into a smile. ¡°Then I¡¯ll thank you in advance.¡±


    Just then, her phone rang. She took it from her bag and saw the screen light up with an iing call from Jordy. She declined the call without a second thought.


    Jordy stood at his own doorstep with keys in hand, ready to head to work. He felt the weight of frustration settle in when his call got rejected. He had wanted to speak with Brenna again about investing in the cybersecurity project.


    The next moment, his phone rang. He nced down and saw Gracie¡¯s name on the screen. He answered the call.


    ¡°Mr. Barton, are you free for lunch? Would you like to have a meal together?¡± Gracie said.


    By the time Jordy arrived, sunlight nted through the restaurant¡¯s windows, and Gracie had already imed a quiet table, her patience tested by a half-hour¡¯s wait. She waved him over. ¡°Jordy, this way.¡±


    Jordy made his way through the room, greeting Gracie with a measured handshake before settling into his seat.


    They had known each other through Rosie and had exchanged pleasantries at a few gatherings, but conversation between them had always been brief. Jordy was still trying to guess what this meeting was really about.


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 Chapter 1655

    ?Chapter 1655:


    Stories about Gracie weren¡¯t hard to find. She had once been head over heels for Ethan, helped start the Mitchell Group, and then found herself abandoned by him.


    Those shares she held in thepany could have secured her future. Still, Gracie had made the surprising choice to sell them off, walking away from the financial safety they promised.


    Most people couldn¡¯t understand why.


    The truth behind her decision remained a mystery.


    Jordy, for his part, assumed Ethan¡¯s indifference had driven Gracie to let go of everything. That was the only exnation that fit the rumors of her heartbreak.


    Afterward, she had quickly married Waldo, only for that marriage to end almost as fast as it had started.


    Knowing this, Jordy couldn¡¯t shake the thought that Gracie¡¯s interest in him might be more personal. Was she interested in him?


    ¡°What¡¯s this meeting about?¡± Jordy asked politely, though he barely nced at the steak, foie gras, and red wine in front of him, his appetite gone.


    Without wasting time, Gracie offered a courteous smile and spoke directly. ¡°Thanks for agreeing to meet me, Mr. Barton. I¡¯m interested in investing, and I know you have an eye for opportunity. I¡¯ve got funds to work with and would like to join forces with you.¡±


    She got straight to the point, confident Jordy would be eager for the partnership.


    Instead, Jordy just brushed off her words with a shrug. ¡°I appreciate it, but honestly, Ethan is the one with the real vision around here. He turned the Mitchell Group into a global leader in no time. That level of foresight and daring isn¡¯t something I¡¯d im for myself.¡±


    At his words, Gracie¡¯s demeanor cooled, her smile faltering just a bit. She wondered if he was hinting at her past with Ethan and was being sarcastic.


    ¡°Mr. Barton, I¡¯ve heard about a few projects that slipped away from you, especially that cybersecurity deal. It¡¯s got major promise, and word is you¡¯re still looking for a way in. Isn¡¯t that so?¡± she said.


    Jordy studied Gracie across the table, noting how much she already seemed to know about his recent dealings. A small, amused smile yed on his lips. ¡°That¡¯s true. Sounds like you¡¯ve got the scoop. Are you about to tell me you¡¯ve got a back door into that project? Last I checked, Brenna and Gerardo are running the project, and I doubt Brenna will wee your involvement.¡±


    A hint of disdain crept in as he considered her proposal. He believed Ethan¡¯s reasons for keeping Gracie at arm¡¯s length made sense. From where he sat, her approach to business seemed clumsy. She had to know Brenna wanted nothing to do with her¡ªyet here she was, looking to get involved. Was she naive, or was there some old score she wanted to settle by doing this?


    Gracie responded with a nod. ¡°I¡¯m well aware Brenna would prefer to keep me out of it. But all I¡¯m offering is money, nothing more. You can handle the negotiations. With my backing, you¡¯d have the leverage, and I can give you a method to join the project. Trust me, Brenna won¡¯t turn you away.¡±


    Jordy could barely hide his skepticism, shaking his head at the idea. ¡°You¡¯re dreaming. She¡¯s not the type to budge, and once her mind¡¯s set, that¡¯s the end of it. Besides, I doubt you know my past with Brenna.¡±


    Gracie¡¯s confusion was obvious; she indeed had no idea.


    Jordy started to rise, ready to end the meeting.


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 Chapter 1656

    ?Chapter 1656:


    But before he could go, Gracie reached out and stopped him. ¡°You haven¡¯t even heard my full n. Maybe you should listen before you walk out.¡±


    Jordy gave a dryugh. ¡°I am her ex-boyfriend. I¡¯m now also in touch with her half-sister. Do you really think Brenna would work with me again? Besides, she¡¯s got more investors than she needs.¡±


    Gracie sat there in shock, the pieces suddenly clicking. She knew Jordy was chasing after Sandra, but his past with Brenna really caught her off guard.


    Everything she¡¯d nned was now disrupted.


    ¡°Hold on, let¡¯s not give up yet. Maybe there¡¯s a way around this.¡± Trying not to lose her cool, Gracie pulled Jordy back into his chair.


    She couldn¡¯t help but wonder how Brenna and Jordy ever got involved in the first ce.


    With a little smile, Gracie said to Jordy, ¡°Mr. Barton, you have everything going for you¡ªtalent, ambition, and charm. I¡¯ve always admired your instincts. But what made you walk away from Brenna before?¡±


    Jordy thought for a moment. Why had he left Brenna back then? He still remembered the reason clearly. Back then, he was just another wealthy heir; his family barely broke into the top two hundred on Shirie¡¯s list.


    To get ahead, his family had to butter up even families like the Barrett family. That was why he had be Brenna¡¯s boyfriend at that time.


    Once the truth came out that Brenna wasn¡¯t really from the Barrett family, and rumors swirled that her biological parents were simple country folk, he wasted no time cutting ties with her and got together with Isabe.


    But he hadn¡¯t anticipated that Brenna was actually from the Harper family, one of Shirie¡¯s four most powerful families. When he learned the truth, regret gnawed at him, but it was toote. Even if he tried to win her back, Brenna would never give him another chance.


    He nced at Gracie with a cool demeanor, thinking she should have done her homework before bringing up the past. If she¡¯d bothered to look into it, maybe they wouldn¡¯t be stuck in this ufortable exchange now.


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    Instead of answering Gracie¡¯s question, Jordy threw one right back at her. ¡°Miss Wilson, what made you leave Ethan before?¡±


    That question hit a nerve. Gracie bristled, immediately sensing that Jordy was mocking her.


    She replied, ¡°Mr. Barton, it wasn¡¯t my choice to let go of Ethan. He didn¡¯t have feelings for me, so I had to ept that.¡± Mid-sentence, realization dawned on her. She believed Jordy was saying he¡¯d left Brenna for the same reason: she didn¡¯t love him.


    She continued, ¡°Enough about the past. Let¡¯s talk business instead. I have plenty of money, and you¡¯ve got the instincts for smart investments. There¡¯s no reason we shouldn¡¯t team up.¡±


    ¡°But I don¡¯t want to work with you,¡± Jordy said curtly as he stood up. This time, he didn¡¯t give Gracie a moment to argue; he turned and walked straight away, leaving her there without a backward nce.


    Gracie simmered with frustration. She couldn¡¯t figure out what she wascking. Who didn¡¯t like money?


    Yet here she was, flush with cash, only to have Jordy dismiss her as if she were nothing.


    She searched for a reason for this, but the only thing clear to her was that Jordy didn¡¯t recognize a good opportunity when it was right in front of him.


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 Chapter 1657

    ?Chapter 1657:


    Meanwhile, Jordy slipped behind the wheel of his car, his expression dark. He wasn¡¯t naive, and he could tell Gracie¡¯s so-called partnership was just a ploy to recruit him for her battle against Ethan. But honestly, did she even know who she was up against?


    Ethan wasn¡¯t just any man. He was the wealthiest man on earth, with businesses scattered across every corner of the world. What chance did someone like him stand against Ethan? And did Gracie really believe she could challenge Ethan with a few measly billions?


    The thought was almost ridiculous.


    That evening, both Ethan and Brenna were buried in work. Brenna was tweaking her smart prosthetic designs long after everyone else had left.


    Ethan had been stuck in back-to-back international meetings and didn¡¯t wrap up until nearly ten o¡¯clock.


    By the time they both finished work, exhaustion was clear on their faces. Ethan came to Brenna¡¯s office, took her hand softly, and asked, ¡°How about we go out for a few drinks tonight?¡±


    A quiet smile crossed Brenna¡¯s lips as she got up and wrapped her arms around him for a hug. ¡°That sounds perfect.¡±


    Neville drove them to the Imperial Bar. As they got close, Brenna nced out the car window and noticed the city still buzzing with energy. Street vendors and the night market filled the sidewalks,ughter and music drifting in the warm air.


    ¡°Let¡¯s get out of the car and walk for a while,¡± she said.


    Ethan followed her gaze to the bustling food stalls. Everywhere he looked, people were gathered around little tables, eating, drinking, and soaking in the carefree night. If he were just another face in the crowd, he might have joined them, too.


    ¡°Alright,¡± he replied.


    Side by side, Ethan and Brenna strolled leisurely along the lively street. Brenna watched the crowds, feeling a bit envious of their simple life.


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    Even at thiste hour, street sweepers were cleaning the sidewalk. Out of the corner of her eye, Brenna suddenly recognized one of them, Ruby, whom she hadn¡¯t seen in ages. Her gaze lingered for a moment. Ruby worked quickly and efficiently, her attention locked on her broom, never once ncing up or noticing Brenna.


    Ahead, the biggest food stall was packed, but just as Brenna and Ethan approached, a group vacated a table, and a waiter hurried to wipe it down.


    Without hesitation, Brenna tugged Ethan toward the area. Spotting the well-dressed pair, the waiter offered a polite smile.


    ¡°What can I get for you tonight?¡±


    Brenna sat down with Ethan and ordered. She went overboard, even adding a handful of beers to the list, and then waved Neville over to join them.


    Their table was soon filled with food and drinks. Just as they started to rx, amotion erupted nearby. A young man was running, stumbling through the crowd as if he were being hunted.


    Secondster, a group of people caught up and kicked him to the ground. ¡°You thief! You had the nerve to steal from us? We¡¯ll teach you a lesson you¡¯ll never forget!¡±


    The man being beaten was gaunt, his hair long, untouched by scissors for months.


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 Chapter 1658

    ?Chapter 1658:


    ¡°Please don¡¯t hit me! I have money, I swear! I¡¯ll call someone to bring it right now!¡± he pleaded desperately, hunching over and shielding his head with trembling hands.


    The attackers halted their assault, but the man on the ground barely managed to rise¡ªuntil one of the men seized him by the arm and hauled him upright.


    He was frighteningly thin, his face swollen and bruised to a sickly shade of blue. Brenna¡¯s gaze lingered as something about him seemed strikingly familiar to her.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that Mack?¡± Ethan murmured in disbelief. ¡°Haven¡¯t seen him in ages. He¡¯s gotten so thin, probably hooked on drugs.¡±


    ¡°Yeah. I wouldn¡¯t have recognized him if you hadn¡¯t said that,¡± Brenna replied coolly, watching as the group shoved Mack.


    ¡°Hurry up and make the call! If you trick me, I¡¯ll beat you to death,¡± one man snapped at Mack, his tone edged with impatience.


    Shaking uncontrobly, Mack retrieved his phone from his pocket and dialed Ruby¡¯s number with trembling fingers.


    Not far away, Ruby was sweeping the street when her phone buzzed. She nced at the screen, saw Mack¡¯s name shing, and hung up without hesitation.


    She despised Mack now. A few months earlier, the little money she had scraped together from Brenna¡¯s help had been taken by him. He had even hit her when she tried to resist.


    Mack had no home, so he stayed at her ce and ate her food. When he couldn¡¯t get money from her, he beat her. And he never looked for work.


    Now, after years of drug use, Mack¡¯s appearance had deteriorated sharply¡ªhe looked more like a vagrant than the man he used to be. In such a state, no employer would even consider hiring him.


    He spent his days wandering the streets¡ªbars, hotels, fancy restaurants¡ªhoping some rich woman might pity him. But with his current face and stench, no woman would even look twice at him.


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    With no job, no money, and an addiction gnawing at him, he could only squeeze money from Ruby.


    Ruby was unable to kick him out. Every time she tried, he hit her harder. Her life had be a living hell.


    She had actually just seen Mack sprinting for his life, but she felt no pity for him. If those people killed him, she would even feel happy. That was why she had pretended she hadn¡¯t seen him earlier.


    ¡°Messing with me, are you?¡± The man¡¯s temper red when Mack¡¯s call failed to connect. With a sharp gesture, he ordered his men forward. They beat Mack again.


    Mack¡¯s phone went flying, hitting the ground with a sharp crack before shattering.


    Within moments, Mack stopped moving.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡± the man shouted, turning away to leave.


    Brenna stared, her eyes fixed on Mack. ¡°Why isn¡¯t he moving?¡± she asked. ¡°Could he be dead?¡±


    A small crowd began to form around Mack. A middle-aged man crouched beside him, checked his breathing, and gasped, ¡°He¡¯s dead! Somebody call the police!¡±


    Hearing that, Ruby dropped her broom and ran over. She checked for a pulse but found none.


    ¡°It¡¯s good that he¡¯s dead¡­ Good that he¡¯s dead¡­¡± she sobbed. ¡°At least he won¡¯t hurt anyone anymore¡­¡± Tears streaked down her face. No matter how vile Mack had be, he was still her son.


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 Chapter 1659

    ?Chapter 1659:


    Mack had been clever as a kid, sweet-tongued and affectionate. Ruby had truly loved him before.


    Now, kneeling beside his lifeless, bruised body¡ªhis clothes tattered, the ones she had scavenged from trash bins¡ªshe broke downpletely.


    How had ite to this for the Barrett family?


    She was supposed to be a wealthydy. How had she ended up sweeping streets for a living?


    She couldn¡¯t understand it. Her heart ached, and tears fell endlessly.


    Brenna stayed seated, her expression unreadable. To her, Mack had brought this upon himself.


    Someone had called the police, and before long, they arrived at the scene.


    Brenna had finished eating by then. She rose and took Ethan¡¯s arm. ¡°Let¡¯s go home.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s eyes remained just as indifferent; he didn¡¯t even bother asking Brenna if she wanted to take a look.


    As Brenna passed by Mack¡¯s body, Ruby looked up and saw her.


    At that moment, she understood everything. It was Brenna who had caused her current situation.


    Inside the hospital, Conor sat quietly beside the bed, keeping his motherpany. With deliberate care, he peeled an apple and handed it to her. ¡°Mom, have an apple,¡± he said softly. ¡°It¡¯s fresh¡ªjust came into season.¡±


    Madge¡¯s gaze drifted toward the door. ¡°Where¡¯s your father? He hasn¡¯t visited for about four days.¡±


    Conor hesitated, clearly reluctant to bring up Wesley. Over the past few days, Wesley and Jalen had been haunting the entrance of the Harper Group building. Thepany guards refused to let them in, so they waited outside every day. Each time Shepard or Ernst appeared, the two would rush forward, begging and pleading with them for help.


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    They had even resorted to kneeling.


    But the Harper family members were indifferent to their pleas, their bodyguards preventing them from getting near.


    Conor had witnessed it once, and the sight of his father and brother on their knees was unbearable to watch. He was disgusted by their tactics.


    ¡°He¡¯s busy trying to save his job,¡± Conor finally said.


    Madge nodded slowly. The gloom in her son¡¯s tone told her everything. She already knew¡ªWesley cared far more about salvaging his own career than about her health.


    ¡°Your father messaged me that your uncle covered the embezzled public funds for him,¡± she said. ¡°Is that true?¡± She still hoped Wesley would be okay. After all, her futurefort depended entirely on him now.


    Conor sighed. ¡°Yeah. Dad said Uncle paid one hundred and ny million to plug the hole. He ims he wants to thank him properly¡ªand maybe even ask for more money to cover your medical bills.¡±


    Madge snorted bitterly, her eyes darkening. She said, ¡°He always puts on that show of deep devotion toward me, but he¡¯s the most selfish man alive. Look at me¡ªI¡¯m lying here, and the hospital¡¯s bills aren¡¯t paid. He borrows money everywhere, but instead of paying the hospital, he spends it on dinners and drinks, trying to curry favor to save his job. He even¡­ He even wanted to kill people to silence them.¡±


    He had gone so far as to pressure Conor to find a way to make the district attorney¡¯s office drop the investigation.


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 Chapter 1660

    ?Chapter 1660:


    But Conor was just a small-timewyer. What power did he have?


    When he said as much, Wesley hadshed out at him.


    The memory still left a cold weight in Conor¡¯s chest. To the outside world, Wesley was a model husband and father¡ªrespectable, loyal, and kind.


    But the truth waspletely different; he was selfish to the core, cold-hearted, and utterly indifferent to others¡¯ feelings.


    ¡°Do you really think he¡¯s begging your uncle for my sake?¡± Madge found that hard to believe. For years, she had been nothing more than a prop for her husband¡¯s ¡°good man¡± image, never once reaping any real benefit from it.


    Conor let out a short, humorlessugh. ¡°Mom, you know that¡¯s impossible. He just wants people to think he¡¯s devoted. My uncle and aunt already saw through him long ago. Why would they give him another cent?¡±


    Disappointment washed over Madge as the truth sank in. ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± she murmured, her voice heavy. ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have any hope for him. What¡¯s the situation with him now? Is your uncle willing to get him exonerated?¡±


    Conor¡¯s expression hardened. ¡°My uncle covered Dad¡¯s loss behind my aunt¡¯s back, but the evidence for his crime is solid. There¡¯s no way to help him. My uncle won¡¯t get involved again. He won¡¯t even let Dad into the Harper Group building. He has done enough already. He won¡¯t use his influence any further¡ªa man like Dad doesn¡¯t deserve it.¡±


    Just then, the door swung open. Wesley and Jalen entered, both looking defeated. Scratches marked Wesley¡¯s face.


    Conor shifted aside, saying nothing. He didn¡¯t bother to ask how things had gone.


    Out of long habit, Madge looked at Wesley. ¡°How did it go? Did your brother-inw agree to help?¡±


    Wesley shook his head, fury shing across his face. ¡°He¡¯s heartless! I knelt before him and threw away every shred of dignity in front of all his employees, but he still had his bodyguards throw me out!¡±


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    He pointed at his face. ¡°Look¡ªthey even hurt me!¡±


    Jalen was also in a bad mood. If his father ended up in prison, his own future would copse with him, every hope of promotion gone for good.


    ¡°Wesley Bentley!¡± A group from the DA showed up at the door without warning, dressed in sharp uniforms, faces serious, a document in hand.


    Wesley went pale the moment he saw them. He stared, stunned, then asked, ¡°Are you here for me?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re from the DA¡¯s office. You are under arrest,¡± one of them stated tly, stepping forward to show Wesley the document.


    The words hit like a blow.


    Wesley had always known this moment mighte, yet he¡¯d convinced himself that if trouble ever found him, the Harper family wouldn¡¯t let him fall. That false confidence had only made him bolder.


    His eyes scanned the document, each word heavier than thest¡ªdereliction of duty, bribery, embezzlement of public funds.


    The charges were clear.


    He shook his head hard. ¡°You¡¯ve made a mistake! The funds were already returned. How can you still charge me for embezzlement? Go back and get your facts straight beforeing here again!¡±


    The DA officers didn¡¯t even flinch. One of them let out a cold chuckle. ¡°Still giving orders like you¡¯re the leader here? Who exactly do you think you¡¯re talking to?¡±


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 Chapter 1661

    ?Chapter 1661:


    Realizing he was losing ground, Wesley softened his tone. ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant. What I¡¯m saying is, the money I took has been paid back in full. There¡¯s no need for an arrest. Clearly, someone made a mistake in your paperwork. You should double-check before dragging me off.¡±


    Without hesitation, the officer snapped the cuffs on him. ¡°You still stole public money. That hasn¡¯t changed.¡±


    Wesley searched the room and fixed his eyes on his wife and two sons, then tried another plea. ¡°My wife is seriously ill. You cannot take me now. Her condition will worsen if I am taken away. You are killing her by doing this.¡±


    The officers paid no attention to his pleas and escorted him out.


    Jalen followed them out, watching their backs until his legs went weak beneath him.


    Conor and Madge were both silent, showing no visible reaction.


    A short while after that, a nurse approached the bedside and spoke briskly. ¡°Your payments are overdue. Please settle the fees immediately.¡±


    Madge turned slowly toward Conor and spoke with bitter resignation. ¡°Discharge me. I will not continue treatment. My illness will not be cured, and we have no money. Why drag the family down for me? I won¡¯t get better anyway.¡±


    Conor understood the situation well. Both he and Jalen were in debt.


    ¡°All right, Mom. I will arrange for your discharge,¡± Conor said.


    Conor went to handle the discharge procedures and saw Wesley in the main hall, refusing to leave, still saying something to the DA office staff. He walked over.


    Wesley raised his voice, saying, ¡°You cannot arrest me. My brother-inw is Shepard Harper, the head of the Harper Group. He promised to take care of this. If you arrest me, you will be finished. You¡¯re going to get fired for this! My brother-inw can pull strings like no one else. Two hundred million? That¡¯s nothing to him! He¡¯d still shield me if it were twenty billion! Dereliction of duty? That¡¯s nothing serious. One call from him, and I¡¯ll be cleared. Arrest me, and you¡¯re all done for!¡±


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    The officers listened without reacting, letting Wesley finish his tirade. Then came the calm response. ¡°Telling us all that won¡¯t change anything. If the Harpers want to help you, they will act. We¡¯re just here to take you to prison.¡±


    ¡°Can¡¯t you understand me? Release me at once. If you don¡¯t, I will have my son call Shepard this minute. Believe me, every one of you will be fired!¡±


    Wesley raised his voice until it cracked, a far cry from the gentle man he used to portray.


    Conor burned with embarrassment when he saw that. Noticing that his father didn¡¯t see him, he moved quickly to leave.


    Two officers seized Wesley and began to escort him away. Just then, Wesley caught sight of Brenna, Ernst, and Shepard walking in with an elderly woman.


    Wesley thrashed wildly, tore himself from the staff¡¯s grip, and bolted toward Shepard. ¡°Shepard! They¡¯re trying to take me to prison! Please, tell them to stop! I¡¯m begging you¡ªjust help me this once. I swear I¡¯ll make it up to you!¡±


    Shepard actually stopped walking. His eyes stayed calm, but the quiet weight in his gaze settled straight on Wesley.


    Seeing him like that, Wesley froze. A chill crawled up his back. For the first time, he felt a twinge of fear before Shepard.


    Wesley was fully aware of how the Harper family saw him, but he said those words in front of Shepard on purpose. His goal was to make Shepard admit who he was and use that family tie to shield him.


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 Chapter 1662

    ?Chapter 1662:


    Even with a hint of fear in his eyes, he refused to abandon the scheme he had in mind.


    He knew that Shepard¡¯s name was thest card he could y to win his freedom back.


    Shepard¡¯s face stayed unreadable, which left him wondering whether his threat hadnded at all.


    Hesitantly, he asked Shepard, ¡°Did you catch that? You know I¡¯m your wife¡¯s brother! They¡¯re trying to take me in. Could you tell them to back off? They¡¯ll listen to you.¡±


    Until now, Shepard had only ever heard stories about Wesley¡¯s shamelessness from his wife rather than seeing it for himself.


    Today, he saw it for himself atst.


    ¡°Wesley, what did you do to get yourself arrested?¡± he asked.


    The DA officers showed respect for Shepard because of his status. They knew of his public profile and had watched his interviews, but they also believed that private influence could not overrule legal procedure.


    One officer stepped forward and handed the arrest warrant to Shepard carefully. ¡°Mr. Harper, please take a look at this.¡±


    Shepard skimmed the document, then looked up with little visible emotion. ¡°Wesley, their procedures areplete. They are not arresting people at random. You should cooperate with their investigation.¡±


    Wesley didn¡¯t look surprised at all. He had expected this from Shepard. He had already prepared for his indifference and had a n of his own.


    Ignoring the tension in the air, he looked at Shepard and demanded, ¡°Tell me, am I your brother-inw or not? They¡¯re arresting me right in front of you, and you¡¯re letting them do it? I¡¯m part of your family!¡±


    Atst, a flicker of emotion crossed Shepard¡¯s face. His voice turned cold. ¡°That¡¯s enough. Officers, this man is no rtive of mine. Do your job.¡±


    Fury lit Wesley¡¯s eyes, but he was powerless. ¡°I am your brother-inw!¡± he shouted. ¡°You¡¯re really going to let them take me? When I¡¯m behind bars, won¡¯t you feel ashamed? Isn¡¯t this going to make you look bad?¡±


    Shepard gave a short, disdainful snort. ¡°What does your arrest have to do with me? I didn¡¯t do anything wrong¡ªyou did.¡±


    Shepard turned and walked off without another word. Brenna and Ernst followed, their expressions full of quiet contempt for their disgraceful uncle.


    The DA officers assumed the matter had ended, but momentster, Giselle entered with Ableson and his wife.


    Giselle¡¯s eyes widened at the sight of the handcuffs, but she walked past Wesley without a word.


    Wesley¡¯s desperation surged. He lunged forward and caught her arm. ¡°Giselle, help me! They¡¯re taking me away. I¡¯ll go to prison! You can fix this; I know you can. Please, I¡¯m begging you. I was wrong before, I admit it. It¡¯s all my fault. But I¡¯m still your brother!¡±


    Giselle pulled free from his grip, her voice sharp. ¡°Get your hands off me. You¡¯re no brother of mine.¡±


    She turned away without hesitation and followed after Brenna and the others.


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 Chapter 1663

    ?Chapter 1663:


    A DA staff member took hold of Wesley¡¯s arm. ¡°Come on. No one¡¯s stepping in for you now.¡±


    Wesley fought back with all he had, but it was useless.


    Ableson watched the scene unfold and shook his head in quiet dismay. ¡°Who is he?¡± Audrey asked with a frown.


    ¡°He is Giselle¡¯s older brother.¡±


    Audrey could not understand why Giselle would treat her own brother with such coldness.


    The group stepped into the elevator. Only then did Gracie emerge from the crowd, hurrying a few steps forward to get a better look at Wesley. Her curiosity burned. What was his connection to the Harper family? And why had the Harper family turned their backs on him?


    Wesley still refused to give up. Spotting Conor at the payment counter, he rushed over and grabbed his arm. ¡°Conor, you and your older brother must find a way to save me. I cannot go to prison. If that happens, it will ruin both your futures.¡±


    As the staff from the DA¡¯s office forcibly escorted Wesley away, Giselle stood at the elevator entrance, her long-held resentment easing slightly. For years, Wesley had been dominated by his self-centered nature. Now, he finally faced the consequences he deserved.


    She made her way to the third floor to see Dr. Deniz Miller, a cardiologist. Tessa was already under examination there.


    Tessa, now advanced in age, was grappling with a growing list of health issues. Since her husband¡¯s passing, her sleep had deteriorated significantly, and her overall well-being was steadily declining.


    Shepard and Ableson had discussed sending her abroad for recovery, but Tessa, deeply attached to her hometown, adamantly refused to leave.


    That morning, a sudden bout of dizziness had nearly caused her to copse, prompting the family to insist on a hospital visit for a thorough evaluation.


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    After the doctor conducted tests and reviewed the results, he reassured them, ¡°Tessa¡¯s vital signs are stable, with no major concerns. Her insomnia, however, is quite severe.¡±


    Relieved, Ableson and Shepard exhaled, though Ableson pressed further, concerncing his voice. ¡°Dr. Miller, my mom is barely sleeping¡ªtwo or three hours at most nights. Even the smallest sound wakes her, and sleeping pills aren¡¯t helping. Is there a way to improve her sleep?¡±


    Drawing on his extensive experience, the doctor advised, ¡°Tessa¡¯s low mood andck of activity are likely contributors. I rmend daily walks of one to two hours, ideally with someone to talk to. If she is open to it, spending time with her peers, talking to them, and expressing her feelings could lift her spirits. Overuse of sleeping pills builds tolerance, but I can prescribe some if absolutely necessary.¡±


    The Harper family, expecting Tessa might need to stay in the hospital, was relieved to learn she only required medication and could return home.


    On the drive back, Ableson and Shepard shared a car, the weight of their mother¡¯s condition heavy between them.


    Ableson, guilt-ridden, admitted, ¡°I haven¡¯t been there for Mom enough. I should walk with her, talk, maybe y cards to keep her spirits up. She is so lonely, often just sitting in her room, lost in thought. This can¡¯t continue. Otherwise, she will sink into depression.¡±


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 Chapter 1664

    ?Chapter 1664:


    Shepard nodded. ¡°Dad¡¯s death hit her hard. I¡¯m wrapping up work soon, so I¡¯ll have more time to spend with her. We¡¯ll take turns keeping herpany.¡±


    Both felt they had failed Tessa, especially Ableson, as she lived with him yet had be like this under his care despite hisck of work obligations.


    His role was to ensure her happiness, and he had fallen short. He felt very guilty.


    ¡°Ableson, I think the children should stop by more often,¡± Shepard suggested. ¡°Mom loves tasty treats¡ªlet them bring her favorite snacks. She used to love exploring new ces in her youth. Once I retire, we could take her on trips together. What do you think?¡±


    He believed the me wasn¡¯t solely Ableson¡¯s; he shared the burden.


    ¡°Absolutely, let¡¯s make it happen,¡± Ableson agreed. ¡°Our wives can join if they¡¯re up for it, but we won¡¯t force them.¡±


    Meanwhile, at the hospital, Conor returned to the hospital room after settling the remaining bills. Jalen hadpleted the discharge process, their belongings nearly packed.


    Madge, frail and racked with pain, couldn¡¯t walk, so Conor carried her on his back, his eyes brimming with tears. He felt utterly inadequate, unable to prevent his father¡¯s reckless choices that dyed his mother¡¯s care and to cover her medical fees.


    Jalen, however, was consumed by his own ambitions. With their father under investigation, detained, and facing sentencing, he knew his political aspirations were at risk. His focus was on shielding himself from the fallout, a concern that preupied him throughout the bus ride home.


    Once home, he sat there, lost in thought.


    Conor, tending to their mother, prepared warm water and administered her pain relief medication.


    Jalen, having crafted a strategy that depended on Conor¡¯s cooperation, called out, ¡°We need to discuss something, Conor. Come here.¡±


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    ¡°Mom, please rest after taking your medication,¡± Conor urged, his brow furrowed with concern, pained by his mother¡¯s anguished expression. As her son, his inability to ease her suffering filled him with deep guilt and a sense of failure.


    ¡°Come outside for a sec,¡± Jalen called to Conor again, his frown signaling impatience.


    Conor waited until Madge had swallowed her pills and settled down before stepping out.


    Jalen led him straight to the elevator. ¡°It¡¯s not private enough here. Let¡¯s head downstairs.¡±


    Conor, all too familiar with Jalen¡¯s usual motives, snapped irritably, ¡°Don¡¯t even think about asking me for money again. I¡¯ve already drained every cent from myw firm. Thewyers there are covering their own travel costs now. You¡¯re not getting a dime from me.¡±


    Jalen, equally frustrated, shot back, ¡°I¡¯m not after your money. I¡¯ve got a n to raise some cash and want to talk to you about it.¡±


    Conor¡¯s anger red. ¡°Talk to me about it? Every time you ¡®discuss¡¯ a money-making scheme, I end up the one borrowing the funds. I¡¯m done!¡±


    Jalen scoffed, ¡°If not you, then who? Me? I¡¯m a government official with a reputation to uphold. I can¡¯t be seen asking people for money. Can¡¯t you consider my position? You¡¯re the only one in this family who can borrow money from people.¡±


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 Chapter 1665

    ?Chapter 1665:


    Conor red at him, his voice sharp. ¡°You throw around your official title as if it mattered. You don¡¯t have a high status; what reputation is there for you to uphold? You want me to consider your situation? But have you ever thought about mine?¡±


    As they stepped out of the elevator, Conor¡¯s frustration boiled over. ¡°I¡¯m always the one borrowing money for our family¡ªfrom rtives, friends, colleagues. Now, people dodge me. They¡¯re scared I¡¯ll ask for more. When they meet me, it¡¯s always about asking me when I will pay them back. You¡¯ve yed it smart, Jalen, sending me to do the dirty work while you stay clean. Dad was the same, hiding behind his status, making me borrow money for him. I had to obey him before, but now that he¡¯s locked up, you think I¡¯ll just follow your orders?¡±


    Walking through the neighborhood, Jalen regained hisposure, offering a faint smile. ¡°Conor, don¡¯t be mad. I¡¯m looking out for you. I promise, I won¡¯t let you carry the debt alone. Once I have money, I¡¯ll help pay it off. But my sry¡¯s only eight grand a month¡ªbarely enough for my kids. I can¡¯t spare anything now. It¡¯s not that I¡¯m unwilling to help you, it¡¯s that I can¡¯t do it.¡±


    Conor felt like a fool. Time and again, for their family, he had caved to Jalen and their father, only to realize how naive he had been.


    He said, ¡°Save your sweet talk. Who do you think you¡¯re fooling? You say this every time, but I¡¯ve never seen a cent from you. Get to the point¡ªI still need to care for Mom and deal with a mountain of work at the firm. I don¡¯t have time for your nonsense.¡±


    Jalen sensed Conor¡¯s growing resistance; convincing him would take more effort this time.


    ¡°Just hear me out. I¡¯m serious about helping you find a way to make money,¡± Jalen said.


    Conorughed bitterly, pointing at himself. ¡°She¡¯s your mother, too, isn¡¯t she? Paying for her care and looking after her is also your job. What is this talk about helping me? I¡¯m done. You should cover the medical bills from now on.¡±


    Jalen¡¯s face tightened, worried Conor might actually hand over the responsibility to him. ¡°Don¡¯t say that. Hear me out first. I¡¯ve got a n to get enough money to clear the old debts without borrowing more.¡±


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    Conor shook his head, incredulous, and turned to leave.


    Jalen grabbed his arm to stop him. ¡°I¡¯m serious. If you won¡¯t get more money or care for Mom, I won¡¯t, either. Don¡¯t expect me to borrow money. If you don¡¯t handle it, you might as well watch Mom die because of her illness.¡±


    Conor seethed with rage. With their father taken away, Jalen¡¯s shamelessness had grown unchecked. As a seasonedwyer, Conor had encountered all manner of clients, some honorable, others deplorable, but Jalen¡¯s shamelessness surpassed even the worst.


    ¡°Jalen, don¡¯t push it too far!¡± he eximed.


    Jalen, unfazed, shot back, ¡°Mom¡¯s cancer is unbearable for her. She¡¯s in constant agony, unable to sleep, relying on heavy doses of painkillers, and suffering terribly. I know it¡¯s tearing you apart, too. I¡¯ve got a n. Approach the Harper family and ask them for money.¡±


    Conor¡¯s anger red. He scoffed, ¡°I thought you had devised something clever. It¡¯s just another plea to the Harpers for cash. You and Dad already tried that, didn¡¯t you? They refused. It would be pointless for me to go.¡±


    Jalen, undeterred, said, ¡°We approached Uncle and our cousin at the Harper Group, and they turned us down. But I¡¯ve uncovered new information. Brenna runs her own lucrative business, separate from the Harper Group. Herpany is in her boyfriend¡¯spany¡¯s building.¡± This discovery fueled his confidence.


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 Chapter 1666

    ?Chapter 1666:


    He continued, ¡°Trust me, we¡¯ll secure the money this time. Just listen to me. I¡¯m not steering you wrong. Brenna is wealthy and does charity work, funding prosthetics for the disabled¡ªeach one costing hundreds of thousands. With our family in crisis, she¡¯ll surely help us.¡±


    Conor remained silent, unconvinced by the n and unwilling to act on it.


    Jalen, indifferent to Conor¡¯s hesitation, recalled how he had always persuaded his brother to borrow money despite his initial refusals.


    He added, ¡°Conor, even if Brenna doesn¡¯t pay, I¡¯ve got another angle. Go to her boyfriend, the world¡¯s richest man, with more wealth than he could ever spend. For Brenna¡¯s sake, he¡¯ll have to give you something. You¡¯re guaranteed to get money this time. Aim high¡ªat least a hundred million! Don¡¯t hold back out of pride or shame. Ask for as much as possible. That money will cover Mom¡¯s treatment. If you refuse, fine. Just watch Mom suffer and die. I¡¯m broke and won¡¯t deal with it anyway.¡±


    With that, Jalen walked away.


    Conor stood there, his face flushing with fury. The harsh truth lingered. Without money, he would have to watch their mother die from her illness eventually.


    She had toiled her entire life, living in their father¡¯s shadow, enduring countless injustices to protect his reputation. Now, battling liver cancer, she was in agony daily, her time clearly running out.


    For her sake, Conor resolved to try what Jalen had suggested. He lingered, mulling it over, then decided to act. Instead of returning upstairs, he boarded a bus to find Brenna.


    Arriving at the Mitchell Group¡¯s towering building, he felt dwarfed gazing up at its height. He stood outside for a while, strategizing how to approach Brenna.


    Truthfully, he was no stranger to borrowing money from people, having faced plenty of rejections and harsh words. He knew how to do it by now.


    When he entered the Mitchell Group¡¯s lobby, a receptionist stopped him, noting hisck of an employee badge. ¡°Hello, sir. Are you here to meet someone or for an interview?¡±


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    Conor offered a courteous smile. ¡°I¡¯m here to see Brenna Harper. May I go up?¡±


    The receptionist, sensing familiarity in his tone, assumed he might be close to Brenna but still asked, ¡°Could you provide your name, your connection to Miss Harper, and whether you have an appointment?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m her cousin, Conor Bentley.¡± Conor found the corporate formalities excessive¡ªneeding an appointment just to see someone seemed absurd.


    ¡°One moment, sir. Let me verify.¡± The receptionist phoned Brenna¡¯s office.


    Shortly after, she directed Conor to the 58th floor.


    In the elevator, Conor¡¯s nerves crept in. He feared Brenna might berate or humiliate him, as Giselle had done before.


    Conor could still remember that day vividly¡ªthe visit to the Harper family, and the way Jalen had deceived Brenna without a hint of remorse.


    Conor knew Brenna had likely asked her mother what was going on. And when she did, she would¡¯ve realized Jalen¡¯s story was nonsense. Honestly, Jalen had really been foolish to lie to her. Did he really think Brenna wouldn¡¯t check for herself?


    Conor wished he had spoken up that day and exposed his brother¡¯s lies. But he hadn¡¯t, and now, the fear that Brenna might see him in the same light as his brother weighed heavily on him.


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 Chapter 1667

    ?Chapter 1667:


    Thinking about it, he believed she wouldn¡¯t like him. He was a Bentley, after all. In the Harper family members¡¯ eyes, every Bentley was bad.


    The elevator chimed and slid open on the fifty-eighth floor. From where he stood, Conor could see the entire office space and employees working in quiet focus.


    Regret welled up in his chest. He shouldn¡¯t havee. What right did he have to ask Brenna for money? Wasn¡¯t it far too shameless? He couldn¡¯t bring himself to do it.


    Before he could press the elevator button to go back, a young woman in a crisp white suit approached, smiling politely. ¡°Mr. Bentley,¡± she said. ¡°I¡¯m Miss Harper¡¯s secretary. She asked me to wee you. Please,e with me.¡±


    Conor froze for a moment, then awkwardly withdrew his hand. Stepping out of the elevator, he felt heat creep up his neck. His mind raced¡ªshould he still ask Brenna for money? If he did that, she would definitely refuse. And if she turned him down, how humiliating would that be?


    ¡°Is Miss Harper in?¡± he asked, ncing around. The floor stretched wide¡ªhundreds of square meters divided into gleaming sections that housed about a thousand employees. The decor radiated understated luxury, a striking contrast to his small, unremarkablew firm.


    ¡°Yes, she¡¯s in her office.¡± The secretary motioned for him to follow and soon ushered him into Brenna¡¯s office.


    Inside, Brenna was on the phone. ¡°That¡¯s wonderful news! You actually found over a thousand Woodham? I¡¯ll take them all. Braeden, please thank them for me.¡±


    Braeden¡¯s warm voice came through the speaker. ¡°No need to thank me. His men found them while on a mission. You don¡¯t need to pay¡ªjust send half of the medicine to the Central Hospital afterward.¡±


    ¡°All right. Have them delivered directly to the Pierce Clinic. I¡¯ll text you the address,¡± Brenna said.


    The two chatted briefly about unmannedbat vehicles before ending the call.


    g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s??§àm, where stories thrive


    Brenna couldn¡¯t help smiling. More than a year ago, a high-ranking officer had offhandedly said he would help her find Woodham. She hadn¡¯t believed him then, but now, he had actually found it.


    Without wasting time, she called Christopher. He picked up quickly; background noise hinted he was at the clinic.


    ¡°Brenna, what¡¯s up?¡± Christopher¡¯s voice was steady.


    ¡°The military located a batch of Woodham¡ªabout a thousand nts,¡± Brenna said. ¡°You should receive them personally. They¡¯ll arrive at the clinic the day after tomorrow.¡±


    Christopher¡¯s excitement was instant. ¡°Really? That¡¯s incredible! Usually, finding even one is rare. Brenna, we should keep some for cultivation.¡±


    Brennaughed softly. ¡°I was thinking the same thing, but Woodham is delicate¡ªit needs very specific growing conditions. If we try to cultivate it ourselves, it probably won¡¯t survive. I¡¯ll contact a botanist and look for a professional to handle the matter properly.¡±


    ¡°Good idea,¡± Christopher remarked. Excitement lit his voice; he could hardly wait to see the Woodham nts with his own eyes.


    After the call ended, Brenna stepped into the reception area, where Conor had been waiting.


    .


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 Chapter 1668

    ?Chapter 1668:


    Lorna brought over two cups of coffee, handing one to each. Brenna sat down gracefully on the sofa. ¡°Conor, what brings you here?¡±


    Her voice was perfectlyposed, neither kind nor cold, and that calm indifference made Conor¡¯s nerves tighten even more. The words stuck in his throat. Brenna was beautiful and sessful¡ªshe had earned everything she had. What right did he have to ask her for money?


    The very thought struck him as audacious¡ªalmost unthinkable. He just couldn¡¯t do it.


    ¡°Brenna,¡± he said atst, his voice low, ¡°I came to apologize.¡±


    Brenna couldn¡¯t wrap her head around it. The Bentleys were infamous for their gall, always showing up with their hands out, asking for cash or favors without shame. She¡¯d been bracing herself for their next visit, expecting the usual.


    But a Bentley with a guilty conscience? That was a plot twist she hadn¡¯t seening.


    So, she raised an eyebrow and repeated, ¡°Apologize?¡±


    Conor¡¯s face burned with shame. Her skeptical look said it all¡ªshe didn¡¯t buy his sincerity for a second. It was a harsh reminder of just how shameless the Bentleys were in the Harpers¡¯ eyes. That only hardened his resolve to apologize.


    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m here to say sorry,¡± he said firmly. ¡°I¡¯m apologizing to your mother for my dad¡¯s wrongs, and to your whole family for the mess my family has caused.¡±


    Brenna wasn¡¯t buying it. ¡°What¡¯s done is done. An apology doesn¡¯t change a thing.¡±


    The Harpers didn¡¯t need the Bentleys¡¯ regrets. Her mom would never forgive her uncle, not in a million years. And no sob story from her uncle¡¯s kids would soften her stance.


    Conor said, ¡°No, it matters. Not every Bentley is shameless¡­¡± He wanted to say that he was a good person. But then, he recalled that he had been borrowing money from people recently, never paying it back.


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    It wasn¡¯t that he didn¡¯t want to pay¡ªhe genuinely had no money. But deep down, he knew he¡¯d been sucked into the same swamp as his brother and father. Just as shameless. What right did he have to say that he was better than them?


    Guilt gnawed at him. After a beat, he said, ¡°At least the kids are still decent. Look, my dad is a real piece of work. My mom always says he¡¯s selfish, only looking out for himself. He makes the whole family orbit around him, like he¡¯s the center of the universe. We¡¯re too spineless to push back. We always do as he says. I know it¡¯s not right.¡±


    He couldn¡¯t meet Brenna¡¯s eyes, staring instead into his coffee cup, mumbling.


    Brenna remembered overhearing Conor scold Jalen that day. Sure, he had a flicker of decency, but it was barely a spark. He wasn¡¯t like Jalen, but the gap wasn¡¯t wide. He¡¯d known Jalen had deceived her, but he hadn¡¯t said anything. In the end, he was not so different from Jalen.


    Quietly, she asked, ¡°If you know it¡¯s wrong, why not change the situation? Why not stand up to your dad?¡±


    Conor bit his lip. ¡°I tried. But it was useless. I¡­¡±


    He knew he was in the wrong. He could¡¯ve fought harder, but he always let his dad and brother sway him.


    Brenna wasn¡¯t impressed. His words felt hollow to her. Conor, usually sharp-tongued in the courtroom, felt like his words were tripping over themselves.


    ¡°I messed up, Brenna. I know no apology will make you forgive me. Grandma¡¯s been gone for years¡ªwords can¡¯t bring her back. Grandpa took the fall for my dad¡¯s sins and died in a cell. My dad has spent his whole life dodging the consequences, but no punishment can erase what he did.¡±


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 Chapter 1669

    ?Chapter 1669:


    He stood abruptly and bowed deeply, his voice cracking. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry! My dad is a selfish bastard. On behalf of my whole family, I apologize.¡±


    Brenna wasn¡¯t moved. His apology felt like it came with strings attached.


    Conor held the bow for nearly a minute. When Brenna didn¡¯t acknowledge him, he straightened up awkwardly.


    ¡°I don¡¯t expect you to forgive me,¡± he continued, ¡°but this is where I stand. I don¡¯t care what the rest of my family thinks¡ªI know I was wrong. My dad? He¡¯s never shown a shred of remorse. Even when they locked him up, he didn¡¯t get it. But he¡¯s paying for it now in prison. He really deserved that.¡±


    Brenna studied him. ¡°So, you only came to apologize? That¡¯s it?¡±


    She wasn¡¯t convinced. She believed he had other intentions foring here. Whether his apology was sincere or not, she wasn¡¯t buying the act.


    Conor couldn¡¯t bring himself to admit he¡¯de to borrow money. That sort of confession would only make things even more strained between their families.


    Without a hint of hesitation, he replied, ¡°That¡¯s right¡ªI¡¯m only here to apologize. That¡¯s all.¡±


    Worried he might slip up and say too much if he stayed any longer, he decided to leave right away. ¡°Sorry to bother you. We¡¯ll try to keep out of your way in the future. And please, let my aunt know I¡¯m sorry for everything.¡±


    Deep down, he kept wishing Brenna would take the initiative and ask, ¡°Is there something troubling you?¡±


    Yet after waiting for a good thirty seconds, Brenna didn¡¯t offer a single word of concern. She didn¡¯t even bother to ask how Madge was doing¡ªproof enough that the Harper family wanted nothing to do with the Bentleys. How could he expect anything more? Wouldn¡¯t it be best to leave before things got even more awkward?


    ¡°I should get going. I don¡¯t want to hold you up.¡±


    True to his word, Conor walked away. Brenna didn¡¯t so much as move from her seat. Lorna silently followed him out, walking him to the elevator with only a polite nod.


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    Up on the 99th floor, Brenna dropped by Ethan¡¯s office, hoping he¡¯d know a good botanist.


    Inside the room, Ethan was in the midst of a meeting with three young engineers, discussing the details of their next-generation drones. He waspletely absorbed in work, shuffling through a folder filled with schematics and notes about the upgrades nned for the second-generation drone.


    He looked at his team. ¡°So, what¡¯s new with this version? What are the main upgrades?¡±


    A young man in a gray shirt replied right away, ¡°The batterysts a lot longer, it¡¯s faster, the body¡¯s a bit bigger, and the aerial camera is much clearer. But the price? It¡¯s twice as much as the first-generation model.¡±


    Ethan considered it for a moment before saying, ¡°That¡¯s quite a steep markup. If we raise the price too much, a lot of budget-conscious buyers might walk away. Come up with another n, but keep the body the same size, and use the new battery and camera specs from the second generation. Work out the costs so we can offer it at a price that sits somewhere in the middle. And don¡¯t drop the first-gen model. It¡¯s still selling well among customers who just want something simple.¡±


    The three young men exchanged quick looks. Then, the one in the id shirt said, ¡°You always see the bigger picture, Mr. Mitchell. We¡¯re still getting plenty of orders for the first version, and our support team is working overtime to keep up. We¡¯ll get started on those changes right away.¡±


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 Chapter 1670

    ?Chapter 1670:


    Ethan gave a nod of approval. ¡°Great. Keep pushing forward.¡±


    Once the engineers left, Brenna didn¡¯t waste any time. She walked in, sat down across from Ethan, and got straight to business. ¡°Ethan, do you know any botanists?¡±


    Ethan offered a small smile. ¡°Yeah, I do. There¡¯s Arturo Crawford over at the Botanical Research Institute. Why do you ask?¡±


    Brenna exined the matter about Woodham. Then, she said, ¡°I¡¯m looking to grow Woodham on arge scale. If I can pull it off, that special medicine for heart and brain diseases could be mass-produced within a few years.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll give him a quick call to find out if he¡¯s interested.¡± Ethan scrolled through his phone, found the number for Arturo, and made the call.


    Arturo, a botany professor at Capital University with his own researchb and a team of graduate students, answered the call immediately.


    After a short conversation, Ethan hung up and said to Brenna, ¡°He¡¯s really interested. He even offered to help you cultivate the nts for free, as long as you give him a batch at no cost.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s fine with me,¡± Brenna replied, then phoned Arturo herself after getting his number and set up a meeting.


    She met Arturo in the afternoon, and by the time she got home, it was already seven in the evening. She had just entered the living room when the sharp voices of her parents arguing reached her.


    Both Giselle and Shepard sat at opposite ends of the dining table, tension simmering in the air. Giselle¡¯s face was flushed with anger, while Shepard¡¯s expression was dark. The household staff kept themselves out of sight, steering clear of the brewing conflict.


    Sandra lingered near the table, and Ernst and Lilith had just arrived, shrugging off their coats.


    Trying to make sense of the situation, Brenna asked, ¡°What¡¯s going on here?¡±


    Giselle wasted no timeunching into herint. ¡°Brenna, I want an honest answer. Did you have any idea that your father helped your uncle pay back the money? That was one hundred and ny million!¡±


    The news caught Brenna off guard. ncing at Shepard, she realized her dad had helped her uncle without telling her mom, but she had no intention of ming him.


    ¡°I honestly had no clue,¡± she replied.


    With a sharp scoff, Giselle said, ¡°A colleague mentioned today that Wesley just got sentenced to twelve years behind bars for things like taking bribes and neglecting his duties. I asked why the punishment wasn¡¯t harsher. My colleague said the sentence got cut because someone paid back the missing public funds for him. I didn¡¯t have to ask twice to know it was your father who covered it.¡±


    Shepard struggled to grasp the intensity of Giselle¡¯s rage. With a tone of gentle persuasion, he spoke and reached out a hand toward her, only for Giselle to flinch away.


    ¡°Keep your hands off me,¡± Giselle spat, her fury as real as it was raw.


    Giselle, seething with indignation,shed out at Shepard. ¡°Why on earth should I let it go? It wasn¡¯t your mother who passed away¡ªit was mine. It wasn¡¯t your father who shouldered the guilt¡ªit was mine. I¡¯ll never forgive him, Shepard. And I can¡¯t bring myself to forgive you, either! He¡¯s utterly selfish and heartless. He wronged my parents, and when my sister¡¯s son required a bone marrow transnt and he was a match, he stood idly by as the boy perished. Why should we offer him aid now, when he finds himself in trouble? You¡¯ve let me down so profoundly.¡±


    The dispute dragged on.


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 Chapter 1671

    ?Chapter 1671:


    Brenna and Ernst exchanged a knowing look. Although they couldn¡¯t fullyprehend their mother¡¯s turmoil, they refrained from judging her. Once everyone had sat down, Ernst said softly, ¡°Mom, don¡¯t be angry anymore. We give you our word¡ªwe won¡¯t lend Wesley and his family a hand moving forward, all right?¡±


    A wave of relief swept through Brenna. She felt lucky that earlier that day, when Conor had sought her out, she had reined in her sympathy, knowing that following her tender instincts might only fan the mes of her mother¡¯s wrath.


    ¡°Mom, what¡¯s done is done. If anything, we could reach out to Mr. Atkinson to derail Jalen¡¯s advancement. Ernst and I could also pull some strings to ensure Conor¡¯sw practice doesn¡¯t get back on its feet.¡±


    Giselle let out a weary sigh and shook her head. ¡°There¡¯s no call for that. My issue is solely with your uncle. The next generation shouldn¡¯t bear the brunt of our old feuds, even though Jalen and Conor aren¡¯t good people themselves. Just don¡¯t help them in secret.¡±


    Ernst and Brenna both nodded in agreement, and atst, Giselle¡¯s anger began to subside.


    Still, for the remainder of the dinner, Giselle gave Shepard the cold shoulder. She dismissed every dish he attempted to serve her.


    Sandra, silent throughout, remained oblivious to the whole story, as she had missed the Bentley family¡¯s visitst Sunday while working at the shop. As she tuned into the heated exchange, she pieced together scraps of what had happened bit by bit. It piqued her interest to discover that even the affluent Harper family had their share of troublesome rtives, and that Giselle also had her own troubles.


    Once the meal was wrapped up and everyone made their way to their rooms, Sandra called Cecily to hers.


    ¡°Spill more,¡± Sandra pressed, her curiosity piqued by the juicy drama of the Harper family.


    Cecily recounted the day¡¯s events with lively detail, and Sandra, in turn, presented her with a modest sum of cash as a gesture of gratitude.


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    Beaming with delight, Cecily pocketed the money and slipped away.


    Left alone, Sandra murmured under her breath, ¡°Who would have thought? Giselle¡¯s got a ruthless streak, letting her own brother go to prison without hesitation.¡±


    Sandra couldn¡¯t help but feel a flicker of satisfaction at the Harper family¡¯s recent troubles, given how coldly they had always treated her. It even crossed her mind that things hadn¡¯t be nearly difficult enough for them yet, and if she knew Jalen or Conor, she might step in and offer them a bit of advice to make things more difficult for the Harpers.


    May arrived, bringing her birthday closer, though the other members of the Harper family seemedpletely unaware of that. While they gathered for breakfast, Sandra lingered at the table, quietly hoping someone would mention her birthday. Since this would be her first one since joining their family, she believed it deserved at least a little attention.


    However, even after the meal ended, nobody brought it up. She felt a faint wave of disappointment but didn¡¯t let it bother her. After all, her actual birthday was still four days away, on May 5th. There was no need to mention it yet.


    She decided to give it another day. If no one remembered by the next evening, she would bring it up and watch how they responded.


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 Chapter 1672

    ?Chapter 1672:


    With that thought set aside, she poured her energy into her boutiques. CloudPath was thriving, and she felt at ease running it, but her high-end custom shop still hadn¡¯t received any orders.


    It was hard for her to ept this, since it meant Shirie¡¯s upper crust didn¡¯t recognize her talent as a designer. That, more than anything, stung her pride.


    The entire day slipped by with no customers at all. By four in the afternoon, Sandra gave up on waiting for orders and decided to leave work early.


    She went to visit Keira, who had recently moved into a spacious apartment gifted by Shepard. The ce covered three hundred square meters and was decorated in an elegant, modern style. Sandra especially admired thendscaped grounds nearby and the impressive selection of senior fitness equipment.


    Keira had sold her old house, with the money set aside for her retirement.


    ¡°Mom.¡± Sandra looked around, but Keira was nowhere to be found.


    Just as Sandra started to worry that Keira might have slipped off to gamble again, Keira returned with the maid. They carried bags of fresh vegetables, some meat, and several big crabs. Keira had a new handbag over her arm, a perfect fit for her look.


    ¡°Sandra, it¡¯s been a while since you stopped by. I thought you mighte visit today, so I got some crabs. The maid will cook themter,¡± she said.


    Any concern Sandra felt vanished. As long as Keira wasn¡¯t gambling, she didn¡¯t care how her mother spent her time.


    ¡°All right, Mom, have a seat. Let¡¯s catch up for a bit.¡± Sandra guided Keira to a chair, and the maid brought them coffee before heading to the kitchen.


    Keira turned her attention to Sandra¡¯s business. ¡°How¡¯s everything at the store? Any new custom orderstely?¡± She knew her daughter dreamed of bing a top designer, aiming to dress the city¡¯s wealthiest people.


    Sandra shook her head. ¡°No customers yet. I know sess won¡¯te instantly, and I¡¯m not giving up. Someone¡¯s bound to ce an order eventually. By the way, Mom, my birthday ising up, and it feels like the Harpers don¡¯t know that at all. I want to use my birthday party as a chance to show off my custom pieces, but what if they don¡¯t even hold a birthday party for me?¡±


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    Keira scoffed, ¡°Are you really expecting those people to remember your birthday? That¡¯s wishful thinking. They can barely tolerate you as it is, so there¡¯s no way they¡¯ll remember something like that. Trust me, if you don¡¯t say anything, there won¡¯t be a birthday party for you.¡±


    The truth stung, even though Sandra hated to admit it, and her spirits fell a little.


    ¡°Then what should I do, Mom? I honestly want a big birthday party.¡± Sandra pictured a grand banquet where all the city¡¯s wealthy socialites would gather, but herwork was small. If she sent out invitations herself, hardly anyone would show up, and that was what worried her the most.


    Keira¡¯s years of experience made her quick toe up with a n. ¡°That¡¯s simple. When you¡¯re having a meal with themter, just bring up your birthday and mention wanting a celebration. Watch how the Harpers react. If they brush it off, it means they don¡¯t care about you at all. If they offer to just give you some money, then you¡¯re only an afterthought to them. But if they talk about throwing you a big party and inviting all the influential people in the city, then you¡¯ll know they truly ept you as part of the family.¡±


    Sandra let out a weary sigh. ¡°Not a single one of them knows when my birthday is. It¡¯s like I don¡¯t matter to them at all. I doubt it ever crossed their minds to even ask me about it.¡±


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 Chapter 1673

    ?Chapter 1673:


    No matter how hard she tried to fit in, it felt like nothing she did ever mattered to the Harper family.


    Keira bristled, her voice hard with resentment toward the Harper family. ¡°You¡¯re just setting yourself up for disappointment if you expect them to remember your birthday. The wealthy can be so cold. No matter how much effort you put in, it won¡¯t change their hearts. When I worked as a maid for the Harpers, I got scolded and had my pay cut for the smallest mistakes. They kept track of everything. Just be direct when you go back. Tell them you want a birthday party and see how they react.¡±


    Sandra nodded. ¡°All right, Mom, I¡¯ll do what you suggested.¡±


    Keira talked with Sandra for a while, and when Sandra stood to leave, she offered a final reminder. ¡°Stop giving them your sincerity. They don¡¯t appreciate it. You¡¯re there to look out for yourself, not to win them over. Everyst one of them has more money than you do. Even Brenna, who only rejoined the family a few years ago, is already a billionaire. Her business is thriving.¡±


    A sense of defeat settled over Sandra. She didn¡¯t earn much and never felt she had a knack for business.


    ¡°Mom, I¡¯m not cut out for business like Brenna. She started herpany before she came back to the Harpers; it was just much smaller then.¡±


    She even found herself defending Brenna.


    Keira scoffed, ¡°You believe that? I don¡¯t think that¡¯s true. Besides, Brenna¡¯s wealthy now, and herpany¡¯s doing better than ever. She even boughtnd for a new office buildingst year. You really think she could do that without any help from the Harper family? They spin all kinds of tales. Don¡¯t believe a word they say.¡±


    Sandra still had her doubts, but she couldn¡¯t deny that some of her mother¡¯s words rang true.


    When she made it back to the Harper house, the clock had just passed seven, and the whole family was seated around the dining table. She was happy that everyone had gathered.


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    She greeted them politely and found her ce at the table. While the servants finished setting the table, Giselle shifted her attention to Lilith and asked about hertest checkup. ¡°Lilith, how did your checkup go?¡±


    Lately, Lilith¡¯s pregnancy was the only thing that could lift Giselle¡¯s spirits.


    ¡°It went smoothly,¡± Lilith answered. ¡°The doctor said everything looks good. I just need to keep going in for my regr appointments.¡±


    Without missing a beat, Giselle pulled out her phone and sent Lilith a transfer of a hundred million dors.


    ¡°Lilith, since you¡¯re expecting, I told the chef to make sure your meals are extra nutritious. Here¡¯s some money for anything you need. If it¡¯s not enough, just let me know.¡±


    Lilith smiled as she epted the transfer. ¡°Thank you, Giselle. Ernst already gives me more than enough to spend each month. I really don¡¯t need more.¡±


    Sandra, seated right beside Lilith, caught a glimpse of the enormous sum Giselle had sent, zero after zero, trailing the one. The Harpers clearly treated that kind of money as if it were nothing.


    Lilith was just pregnant, and she received such a huge amount. Sandra found herself wondering how much the Harpers might give her for her birthday. It had to be no less than a hundred million.


    That thought alone sparked a tinge of anticipation inside her.


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 Chapter 1674

    ?Chapter 1674:


    Once everyone had finished talking about Lilith¡¯s pregnancy, Sandra spoke up. ¡°Everyone, my birthday ising up. I¡¯d like to throw a party.¡±


    She spoke clearly and gave everyone time to respond, picturing them transferring her a hundred million each and watching her fortune grow. But she suspected it was only wishful thinking.


    As she feared, the others simply kept eating as though they hadn¡¯t heard a word from her.


    Only Shepard nced up at her. ¡°Okay. Book any five-star hotel you like and invite your friends. Giselle and I won¡¯t be there.¡±


    With those words, he transferred her twenty million dors.


    The disappointment hit Sandra hard. Lilith had been handed a huge sum just for her pregnancy, but Sandra¡¯s own birthday, something she felt was truly worth celebrating, had earned her only twenty million.


    A heavy sense of disappointment weighed on Sandra, pressing down like a storm cloud that refused to move.


    No matter how hard she tried to fit in, it seemed the Harpers never saw her as one of them. That realization stung more than she cared to admit.


    She caught the fleeting look of disapproval Giselle gave Shepard. Giselle clearly wasn¡¯t pleased that he had transferred money to her.


    Sandra¡¯s gaze drifted to Ernst, who continued to eat calmly, as though the thought of offering her something never even crossed his mind. Beside him, Brenna showed no inclination to do anything, either. And Giselle¡­ Well, she could barely stand to look at her. Expecting generosity from someone who could hardly bear her presence felt foolish now.


    It seemed her father was the only one willing to give her money. The thought offered littlefort. It deepened the resentment inside Sandra.


    Her mother had been right all along. The richer people were, the tighter they clutched their wealth.


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    Atst, with determination, she lifted her head and asked Shepard, ¡°Dad, may I have the party at home?¡±


    Shepard chuckled softly, though the sound carried an edge of authority that couldn¡¯t be mistaken. ¡°Sandra, having the party at home isn¡¯t out of the question. But we don¡¯t know your friends, and they might feel ufortable here. Besides, we¡¯re short on staff at home, and I doubt we could host them properly. It¡¯s better to hold the party at a restaurant, somewhere you can rx and enjoy yourself. Make it as grand as you wish. If the money isn¡¯t enough, just tell me.¡±


    Sandra stared down at her te and pushed her food around with her fork, growing more frustrated. The way her father had said that sounded like he didn¡¯t treat her as part of the family.


    ¡°All right, Dad,¡± she said, her tone even, though her mind echoed with her mother¡¯s words. She must never forget why she was here. If they wouldn¡¯t give her affection, then she should take whatever she could get from them. It wasn¡¯t love she could count on in this house. Only money.


    With that thought in mind, Sandra looked up again and sighed heavily. ¡°But Dad, I don¡¯t think twenty million is enough.¡±


    It didn¡¯t seem fair. Lilith had been given a hundred million without question, while she was handed a mere fraction of that.


    Shepard exchanged a brief nce with Giselle, a silent conversation passing between them. Then, without a word, he took out his phone and began tapping on the screen. A momentter, he looked up.


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 Chapter 1675

    ?Chapter 1675:


    ¡°There. I¡¯ve transferred another twenty million to you. Is that enough?¡±


    Sandra¡¯s heart sank. For a fleeting second, she had hoped he might transfer a hundred million. But she got another twenty million.


    She was upset but didn¡¯t let it show. Asking for more might push her luck too far, and she knew how quickly their goodwill could vanish. If she angered them, they might not give her anything next time.


    She epted the transfer and forced a smile that didn¡¯t quite reach her eyes. ¡°Thanks, Dad. This should be enough.¡±


    By her own estimate, a single million would have easily covered the party expenses. Still, she wanted more.


    Dinner came and went, but no one else sent her anything. Sandra¡¯s resentment toward the Harpers only deepened.


    Later that night, as everyone prepared for bed, Giselle muttered to Shepard, ¡°You¡¯ve given Sandra so much money again. You didn¡¯t even get my permission for that.¡±


    Shepard sighed, conflicted. ¡°It¡¯s just spending money, and it wasn¡¯t that much. For Brenna¡¯s birthday, I¡¯d give her at least two hundred million. Forty million for Sandra isn¡¯t excessive.¡±


    Giselle snapped, her eyes shing with anger, ¡°Sandra is just your illegitimate daughter. I can barely stand the sight of that girl, yet you keep throwing money at her. Did you even notice her expression earlier? She looked as though what you gave her wasn¡¯t nearly enough. She¡¯s been living here for only a few months, and look how much we¡¯ve already handed her. I¡¯m telling you, Shepard, don¡¯t give her any more money.¡±


    ¡°All right, all right,¡± Shepard agreed without hesitation. But the truth was, he had no intention of stopping. He decided he would just give Sandra money in secret from now on.


    After all, she was his daughter. No matter what others thought, he couldn¡¯t bring himself to let her go without. Even a small amount was better than letting her feel forgotten.


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    Later that night, Brenna was just about to go to bed when a soft knock came at her door. She opened it. Sandra stood there, phone in hand.


    ¡°Help review this invitation I¡¯ve designed,¡± she said, holding out the screen. ¡°I n to invite Shirie¡¯s young upper ss to my birthday party, and I¡¯ve already prepared a guest list. You can check that for me as well.¡±


    Brenna took the phone and looked at the invitation Sandra had made. The design was in, and itcked the polish she was used to seeing from professional event nners. It wasn¡¯t even better than the restaurant¡¯s custom invitations.


    ¡°Actually,¡± Brenna said after a pause, choosing her words carefully, ¡°the restaurant offers beautiful invitations. And since your birthday¡¯sing up soon, there might not be enough time to personalize one.¡±


    The meaning behind those words was clear enough to Sandra. Brenna thought her work wasn¡¯t good. She had spent hours on that design, choosing colors and fonts she thought showed elegance.


    ¡°All right,¡± Sandra said atst. ¡°I¡¯ll go with the restaurant¡¯s invitations, then. Now, help me review the guest list.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s gaze swept over the guest list, which epassed nearly every young socialite in Shirie.


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 Chapter 1676

    ?Chapter 1676:


    It was absurd. Hosting a proper event demanded careful nning, and even the Harper family never invited the entirety of Shirie¡¯s elite¡ªonly those with established ties.


    Without pre-existing ties, even a hundred invitations from Sandra wouldn¡¯t guarantee a single attendee. Wealth alone didn¡¯tmand respect or interest.


    Brenna said, ¡°This list is off. Do you even know these people? Have you met people from the Evercrest Group before? Or anyone from the Obsidian Group? I doubt it. We¡¯ve never included them in our events, and they¡¯ve never attended. Inviting them is inappropriate.¡±


    She pointed out several other names, none of whom had ever attended Harper family gatherings or had any personal or business connections with them.


    Sandra felt a pang of embarrassment, realizing her ignorance about high-society protocols. Thankfully, Brenna¡¯s guidance spared her from a humiliating mistake.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know that before. Who should I invite?¡±


    Brenna, viewing Sandra as part of the Harper family, knew a failed party would tarnish their reputation. She decided to help Sandra.


    ¡°Only invite those you know personally or who might need something from us. Sending too many invitations is pointless.¡±


    Sandra didn¡¯t want to give in. ¡°But didn¡¯t ourst party draw a huge crowd? The restaurant manager said all of Shirie¡¯s big names were there, so I made this list. Is that so wrong?¡±


    ¡°That manager knows nothing about our circles. In families like ours, invitations aren¡¯t sent casually¡ªthey¡¯re reserved for close allies or business partners, not strangers.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s confidence waned. She barely knew anyone. At her wee party, a few young elites had friended her on social media, but those connections quickly faded.


    Limiting her invites to them would barely muster thirty people. The party wouldn¡¯t qualify as a grand event.


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    She let out a quiet murmur, ¡°I understand, thanks.¡±


    Feeling deted, Sandra retreated to her room.


    As she reviewed the guest list, a nagging suspicion grew that Brenna was deliberately stopping her from having a grand party, not wanting her to make more friends. She resolved not to listen to Brenna¡¯s advice.


    Looking at the invitation she¡¯d designed, she admitted it looked in. She chose to use the hotel¡¯s invitations, yet she remained firm about keeping her original guest list.


    Yet, Brenna¡¯s warning gnawed at her¡ªwhat if these elites, unfamiliar with her and dismissive of her as Shepard¡¯s illegitimate daughter, mocked her event and refused to attend?


    It was a real possibility.


    After mulling it over, she decided to invite her old friends and ssmates from before her time abroad. Those people came from humble roots, and now, as a member of the powerful Harper family, she was certain they would fawn over her.


    Conor had been staying at Madge¡¯s home recently to tend to her. That morning, the house was unnervingly still, with no stirrings from Madge¡¯s room. Worried, he eased open her door and stepped inside.


    Madgey motionless on the bed, her face pale as ash, strangely serene. The pain that once marred her expression had vanished. A cold shiver hit Conor¡ªsomething was gravely amiss.


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 Chapter 1677

    ?Chapter 1677:


    rmed, her stillness resembled that of a corpse.


    ¡°Mom!¡± he called out, his voice shaking, but she didn¡¯t answer. A wave of icy fear surged through him. He edged closer, gently nudging her, but she remained still.


    Dreading the worst, he ced a trembling finger beneath her nose to check for breath.


    Nothing.


    Her skin felt cold under his touch.


    ¡°Mom!¡± Conor cried out, his voice breaking as he pulled back the nkets, revealing a deep, crusted wound on Madge¡¯s wrist, the blood long dried and darkened. It was clear she had been dead for a while.


    Overwhelmed by grief and guilt, Conor pped himself, struck by the agonizing realization that his mother had chosen death to end the unbearable suffering of her illness.


    When Jalen saw their mother¡¯s cold form, his resentment burst forth uncontrobly.


    He lunged forward, seizing Conor by the cor as rage consumed him. ¡°I told you to ask Brenna for money, but you refused! If you¡¯d done it, we could¡¯ve treated Mom. Do you think she would¡¯ve taken her life then? This is your fault, Conor¡ªyou drove Mom to her death!¡±


    Conor had endured his brother¡¯s arrogance for years. There had been countless moments when he¡¯d wanted to knock some sense into him, but he had always held back, fearing it would distress their mother.


    Now that she was gone, there was nothing left to hold him back.


    Putting all his strength behind the punch, he struck Jalen square in the face and bellowed, ¡°You¡¯ve got the guts to point fingers at me? What exactly did you do? Mom was seriously ill and needed help, yet you refused to borrow money for her, saying it¡¯d hurt your reputation as an official. Which mattered more to you¡ªyour career or Mom¡¯s life? Face it, you never cared about her. You¡¯re as self-centered as Dad!¡±


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    Jalen hadn¡¯t expected Conor to hit him. For years, no matter how vicious his taunts had been, Conor would argue but never throw a punch. Jalen had always looked at him as someone weak, so he bullied him without fearing any real consequence.


    Now that Conor had finally struck back, fury consumed Jalen. Heunched an attack, but before his blow couldnd, Conor answered with a savage punch, knocking out a mr and swelling Jalen¡¯s face.


    Conor didn¡¯t stop, raining down relentless strikes while shouting, ¡°You didn¡¯t lift a finger to help, and now you¡¯re ming me for everything? Mom had been ill for years. Have you once stayed the night to watch over her? Have you paid a single cent to treat her? All you ever did was take money from her. She was sick, and you forced her to scrape together money to help you advance in your career. You leech off Mom and Dad. You should be the one to die. Why don¡¯t you just drop dead?¡±


    ¡°Conor!¡± Jalen cried out, battered, unable to fight back. He staggered until his spine hit the wall as blow after blownded. ¡°Do you hear what you¡¯re saying? Mom killed herself because you failed to get money to treat her. How dare you pin this on me?¡±


    ¡°I failed to get the money? I told you to borrow from Brenna as well. You did nothing while Mom suffered. Her deathnds squarely on you. My conscience is clear. I cared for Mom for years, and I hold no guilt. I borrowed money for her and buried myself in debt. But you¡ªwhat did you ever do for her?¡±


    Jalen tried to dodge a swing but lost his bnce and hit the floor hard. Conor kept up the assault. He straddled Jalen and began hammering him with relentless blows.


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 Chapter 1678

    ?Chapter 1678:


    Their wives and children stood frozen for a while, then surged forward to pull them apart.


    ¡°Enough! Your mom is already gone¡ªarguing won¡¯t change that! We need to focus on preparing her funeral!¡±


    Conor shed a contemptuous look at Jalen and said, ¡°You take care of it. I¡¯m done here.¡±


    He then dragged his wife and children toward the door.


    Jalen jabbed a trembling finger toward Conor¡¯s retreating figure and cursed, ¡°You monster! Mom is dead, and you just walk away like this?¡±


    At the building¡¯s entrance, Conor halted and dropped to his knees, sobs wracking his body. He couldn¡¯t bear to abandon his mother, even after her death. Turning around, he collided with Jalen as he descended the stairs.


    Jalen said, ¡°I have no money left. A funeral costs too much, and I¡¯m tapped out. My job could be in jeopardy, and I have too many obligations. I won¡¯t handle Mom¡¯s funeral. If you refuse to hold a funeral for her, then I won¡¯t, either.¡±


    Rage rose in Conor at that. Heunched himself at Jalen and sent him crashing to the floor. ¡°Are you even human? That¡¯s our mother you¡¯re abandoning. If you don¡¯t act, Jalen, I¡¯ll go to your office and make a scene. You¡¯ll lose your job and any chance of promotion.¡±


    Jalen retorted sharply, ¡°You wouldn¡¯t dare!¡±


    Conor roared, ¡°I¡¯m serious! I¡¯m awyer, and I know exactly what unsettles officials like you. Try me, Jalen.¡±


    Sandra had spent thest several days buried in party nning, touring one luxury restaurant after another in search of the perfect venue for her birthday celebration. Hosting more than two hundred guests, she realized, would cost more than twenty million once she added up the food, drinks, and borate decorations.


    One upscale restaurant even quoted her forty-seven million, and the number made her jaw tighten. She couldn¡¯t believe how outrageous it was.


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    The manager of the Pearl Grand Restaurant, a cheerful man in his thirties, spoke eagerly. ¡°Miss Harper, we guarantee nothing but excellence. Our service will make you the star of the evening. Everyone who attends will remember it as the finest party they¡¯ve ever seen. Let me show you what¡¯s included.¡±


    He paused for a moment. ¡°Our chefs can create over two hundred varieties of cakes to suit every taste. We offer twenty types of drinks, each bottle valued at over a hundred thousand dors. There¡¯s also a seven-tier cake and a live band¡ªbothplimentary.¡±


    Sandra said nothing, quietly weighing his words. The offer sounded tempting, but the cost was too much.


    Shepard had handed her forty million for the celebration, and at first, she had thought it was more than enough. How could a single party possibly cost that much anyway? Only now did she realize how mistaken she had been. That amount couldn¡¯t cover the most extravagant setup.


    The idea of spending forty million on a six-hour event made her hesitate. It wasn¡¯t worth it. A simple one-million celebration would be more than enough.


    ¡°Miss Harper, have you made a decision?¡± the manager asked politely.


    Sandra couldn¡¯t bring herself to choose the lowest offer. After wrestling with the decision for a while, she finally said, ¡°I¡¯ll take the ten-million package.¡±


    Even saying it made her chest tighten.


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 Chapter 1679

    ?Chapter 1679:


    The manager didn¡¯t press her any further. He had already done his best to persuade her and chose to respect her decision. Once the payment was settled, the party was booked for Saturday night¡ªjust two days away.


    When the managerter presented the invitation options, Sandra didn¡¯t hesitate to indulge a little. She chose thevish gold-foil designs, the kind that shimmered under the light.


    After that, she began sending out the invitations. Since she wasn¡¯t particrly close with most of the guests, she had the family¡¯s staff handle the deliveries, creating the impression that the Harper family was hosting an extravagant social affair. With a name like theirs, people would attend out of respect.


    She even went as far as to video-call the elites who had added her on social media during her wee banquet, inviting them herself.


    When Saturday finally came, Sandra arrived early at the Pearl Grand Restaurant. One nce at the venue eased her worries. The arrangements looked stunning. The tables were loaded with fine dishes. The staff moved with practiced precision, and the bar gleamed with a rich selection of drinks.


    ¡°Pretty good,¡± Sandra murmured with satisfaction, pleased with her choices.


    She walked through the hall, adjusting a few details here and there to make sure everything matched her expectations. She thought it matched the grandeur of her wee banquet and felt relieved she hadn¡¯t given in to the manager¡¯s persuasion to pay for more.


    As evening approached, Sandra waited at the entrance of the grand hall, expecting the steady arrival of guests by six. But no one came.


    Thirty minutes slipped by.


    Only Brenna came, dressed in yellow, and Ethan wasn¡¯t with her. She was carrying a gift.


    She hadn¡¯t nned toe, but Shepard had called her, asking her to show up for appearances.


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    Sandra¡¯s stomach dropped. The first person through the door was a Harper, someone she didn¡¯t like and hadn¡¯t even invited. Instead of happiness, shame washed over Sandra. The Harper family would no doubt mock her secretly after seeing this.


    ¡°Happy birthday to you,¡± Brenna said to Sandra politely as she handed her gift to one of the attendants. Her eyes swept over the vast ballroom, taking in the empty tables and untouched buffet. Not another guest had arrived.


    The sight surprised her. Even though Sandra wasn¡¯t well-liked, she had expected at least a few social climbers to show up for the Harper family¡¯s sake.


    Yet here she was¡ªthe only guest.


    It was painfully awkward. Sandra¡¯s face looked pale, her eyes glossy, as though she was holding back tears.


    ¡°Go on in,¡± Sandra murmured, her voice tight with embarrassment.


    Brenna gave a small nod and walked inside, settling into a quiet corner before pulling out her phone.


    ¡°Dad, I¡¯m the only guest here. No one else has shown up yet.¡±


    Shepard¡¯s brows furrowed as he drove home. ¡°Not even one guest?¡±


    ¡°No. You need to do something fast. She looks like she¡¯s about to fall apart. I don¡¯t know how many invitations she sent, but no one showed up. It¡¯s humiliating.¡±


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 Chapter 1680

    Chapter 1680:


    Shepard hadn¡¯t seen thising. Like Brenna, he¡¯d assumed at least a few dozen guests would turn up.


    After a pause, he spoke firmly. ¡°Call your friends and get them there. Hurry.¡±


    Brenna sighed but did as told. She started sending messages to people she knew¡ªEllie, Thiago¡¯s family, her assistant Lorna, Conroy¡¯s daughters, a few other friends, and even Joe and Tommy. She also reached out to several daughters of her father¡¯s business partners, totaling about twenty people.


    That would have to do. If Ernst and Lilith, along with her parents, managed to bring a few more, the venue wouldn¡¯t look so empty.


    Fortunately, Brenna¡¯s influence worked quickly. Within thirty minutes, familiar faces began arriving in groups, their voices andughter filling the quiet space.


    Patrick came running up and wrapped his arms around her. ¡°Brenna! Do they have any good snacks here?¡±


    Smiling, Brenna patted his head. ¡°Plenty. Go enjoy yourself, but don¡¯t run off too far, alright?¡±


    Patrick replied, ¡°I had a burger before we came here, so I¡¯m not hungry. But I want something from you.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Brenna understood Patrick well enough to know it wasn¡¯t about something ordinary.


    Patrick¡¯s grin widened. ¡°That round robot you used in the jungle! Dad told me about it. You¡¯re so awesome, Brenna. I want one, too.¡±


    Brenna tapped him lightly on the forehead. ¡°That thing¡¯s packed with explosives, genius. Definitely not something for you to y with.¡±


    Patrick pouted. ¡°Then just remove the explosives! I really like that robot. I haven¡¯t gotten a new toy in ages. Please, Brenna¡­¡±


    Brenna had always had a soft spot for Patrick and seldom turned him down. The boy was far from ordinary¡ªsharp-minded and already two grades ahead of his age group. He wasn¡¯t into the usual toys that other kids loved; what fascinated him were high-tech gadgets. And in that realm, Brenna was practically his idol.


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    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll ask Braeden to make a few safe versions. Give me a couple of days,¡± she said.


    Patrick¡¯s face lit up instantly. ¡°Thanks, Brenna! You¡¯re the best! I¡¯m going to grab something to eat.¡±


    Near the entrance, Ellie had just arrived and was chatting casually with Sandra. To Sandra, seeing Ellie here felt like a small victory. Ellie, the renowned fashion designer she admired deeply, had never shown much interest in befriending her before.


    But today, she hade in person, and that was enough to lift Sandra¡¯s mood.


    Shepard and Giselle showed up as well, joined by Ernst and Lilith, each bringing a few friends to help turn things around.


    The party wasn¡¯t looking so pathetic anymore.


    Even so, a faint gloom lingered over Sandra. Out of everyone she had personally invited, barely twenty had bothered to show up.


    She couldn¡¯t understand why the rest hadn¡¯te.


    ¡°Happy birthday, Miss Harper!¡± Jordy said to Sandra as he stepped inside, a bouquet of red roses in one hand and a gift box in the other. His sapphire-blue suit gleamed under the lights, and every inch of him radiated confidence.


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    Message from Noa: Have a spectacr weekend dear ones, a new novel will be released in just a few hours. God loves you and Noa wishes you all the best. ( ? ? ¨C ) ?


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 Chapter 1681

    ?Chapter 1681:


    ¡°Thank you!¡± Sandra replied, her tone softening. For a moment, genuine warmth touched her eyes. ¡°Please,e in, Mr. Barton.¡±


    Jordy exchanged a few polite words with her before stepping inside. A single nce at the setup told him everything. He believed the event Sandra hosted was disappointing, failing to reflect the Harper family¡¯s stature.


    By half past seven, everyone who was going to attend the party had already arrived. The emcee stepped up and began the usual routine for a birthday celebration.


    Sandra found it dull. Only a handful of the people she had invited had bothered toe, and those who did were hardly close to her. Out of all the contacts she¡¯d added on Facebook during her wee banquet, merely two had shown up.


    The cheerful greetings and smiles around her rang hollow. She could tell most of the guests were there out of obligation. The Harper family had clearly pulled strings to keep the ce from looking deserted.


    The entire situation made her look like aughingstock in front of both the Harper family and the guests.


    Regret gnawed at her. She wished she had never thrown the party in the first ce.


    Just then, a burst ofughter echoed from the entrance, loud enough to turn every head in the room.


    Sandra, who had been about to make a wish, froze and looked toward the doorway.


    Her heart sank. It was Keira¡ªher mother¡ªapanied by a small crowd of middle-aged women, her usual circle of friends.


    ¡°Wow, this really is a five-star hotel! It feels like walking into a pce!¡± one of the women eximed.


    Keira, beaming with pride, waved her friends forward. ¡°Come on in, everyone! It¡¯s my daughter¡¯s birthday today. Eat, drink, and enjoy yourselves. If you see something you like, take it home. My girl spent ten million on this celebration!¡±


    ¡°Your daughter¡¯s impressive, Keira. If it weren¡¯t for you, I¡¯d never get to set foot in a ce like this.¡±


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    ¡°That cake looks incredible. I¡¯m definitely helping myself to a few extra slices!¡±


    To Keira and her friends, the venue was dazzling. The crystal chandeliers, the floral centerpieces, the buffet¡ªit all looked grand enough to belong in a movie.


    A few guests didn¡¯t bother to mask their contempt toward them, their sneers in for all to see.


    But Sandra believed the ten-million setup was splendid.


    Though she hadn¡¯t included Keira on the guest list, she hadn¡¯t exactly forbidden her froming, either.


    She turned toward Shepard and Giselle, only to find their faces stiff and clouded with displeasure.


    People at the party were ncing at Keira in an odd way. Some guests even began to whisper among themselves.


    ¡°Wait, isn¡¯t that the nanny who got involved with Shepard before?¡±


    ¡°Seriously, what¡¯s Miss Harper thinking? She¡¯s already part of the Harper family¡ªwhy did she still invite her biological mother?¡±


    ¡°No wonder she¡¯s not in good standing inside the family. If I were Shepard, I wouldn¡¯t tolerate this, either.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s gotta choose¡ªher mom or the Harper family. Even if she wants to be a good daughter, she should do it quietly. She actually brought her mom here to embarrass Shepard? That¡¯s ridiculous. This should be entertaining.¡±


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 Chapter 1682

    ?Chapter 1682:


    Sandra quickly realized she¡¯d made a mistake by allowing her mother to attend.


    Still, she didn¡¯t see it as disastrous. Surely, people would admire her for it¡ªfor not cutting ties with her own mother after stepping into high society. To her, it showed good character.


    Meanwhile, Giselle¡¯s expression hardened as she watched Keiraughing with her friends, proudly introducing Sandra as her daughter.


    Rage red in Giselle¡¯s chest. She turned sharply toward Shepard, her voice low and biting. ¡°Good job,¡± she hissed sarcastically, barely holding back her anger.


    She wanted to leave right away, but she knew that would only make her appear petty and ill-tempered.


    She remained where she was, seething.


    Sandra went through the motions¡ªmaking her wish, blowing out the candles, and cutting the cake while the crowd pped politely. The mood stayed t. Every smile felt forced, every cheer hollow. Guests picked at their slices of cake, took a single bite, and set their tes aside, muttering that they didn¡¯t eat sweets.


    The emcee, ever the professional, smoothly kept the event going despite the tension.


    No one even nced at the desserts or drinks now. People starteding up with reasons to leave.


    Sandra knew then¡ªthe night was ruined. She escaped to the bathroom, her chest tight, and there, she overheard some murmurs.


    ¡°I bet Sandra handled this whole thing herself. Those desserts? Tasteless and cheap. One bite, and I almost wanted to puke!¡±


    ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have bothered toe. Ma told me she wasn¡¯ting before¡ªsaid Sandra¡¯s irrelevant in the Harper family. I should¡¯ve taken her advice.¡±


    The cruel words echoed in Sandra¡¯s mind like thunder. It hit her all at once¡ªno matter how much she tried, she would always be the unwanted one, the Harper family member in name only, an outsider in the very circle she longed to belong to.


    When she finally stepped out of the bathroom, her eyes still stung. Two women emerged from the opposite stalls at the same time¡ªthe same pair who had ttered her online just days ago. They turned out to be the ones who had just talked bad about her.


    Their eyes widened the moment they saw Sandra. Unease shed across their faces; they were unsure whether Sandra had heard their words earlier or not.


    Sandra stood there, waiting. She thought that maybe they would exin themselves. Maybe they¡¯d at least apologize.


    But their unease vanished as swiftly as it appeared, reced by something colder¡ªsmug amusement.


    ¡°Miss Harper, we need to head out¡ªsomething came up with the family,¡± one of them said, sharing a look. Their mocking smiles felt almost like provocation.


    They walked away without a backward nce.


    Fury burned inside Sandra, and tears gathered in her eyes.


    The night had turned into a disaster. She had nned this birthday party to draw attention to her luxury fashion line, yet no one seemed to take her work seriously. How could she expect anyone to order custom pieces now?


    Was she really that bad?


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 Chapter 1683

    ?Chapter 1683:


    She remembered the days in her mentor¡¯s studio, working alone but earning genuine praise for her designs. If her work had been that good, why had she gotten no orders at all?


    Inside the banquet hall, the air hung heavy. The usual cheer of a celebration was nowhere to be found.


    The only sounds came from Keira and her friends, eating, drinking, andughing boisterously¡ªthe liveliest bunch in the room.


    Humiliation crept up Sandra¡¯s neck.


    What kind of gossip about her was spreading now?


    She scolded herself for being so clueless before. She should have known things would turn out like this.


    As she nced around, she realized Shepard and Giselle had left. They hadn¡¯t even bothered to say goodbye.


    Most of the guests were gone, too, and she hadn¡¯t managed to raise a single toast.


    Clutching her wine ss, Sandra moved through the hall, stopping only when someone acknowledged her with a polite smile.


    At least the remaining guests had enough sense not to humiliate her outright.


    After a few strained exchanges, the heaviness in Sandra¡¯s chest began to ease a little. Her eyes searched the room until she found Jordy standing nearby, deep in conversation with a friend.


    As she made her way closer, ss in hand, fragments of conversation reached her ears.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been to countless parties at the Pearl Grand Hotel. But this one? It¡¯s terrible. I can¡¯t imagine what the Harper family was thinking. And this wine¡ªcheap and disgusting. I wouldn¡¯t even drink something like this at home.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve got no idea,¡± said another, lowering his voice. ¡°Shepard never wanted this entire event. It¡¯s for his illegitimate daughter, for heaven¡¯s sake. She¡¯s an embarrassment to the family name. Heard she insisted on organizing this circus all by herself. Guess he didn¡¯t expect it to turn out like this.¡±


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    ¡°Shepard texted me directly toe. Didn¡¯t even bother picking a decent gift¡ªjust grabbed the first thing I saw in a shop. When the powerful man calls, I show up, no questions asked.¡±


    ¡°Same here. I couldn¡¯t care less about that girl, but when Shepard¡¯s involved, I need to show some respect.¡±


    When someone caught sight of Sandra approaching, they signaled the others, and their conversation shifted at once.


    Sandra hesitated for a moment, then turned away, her heart heavy as lead.


    Around Ellie stood a circle of wealthy women, glittering in designer dresses, their jewelry shining with staggering value. Sandra used to know little about such things, but after Jordy¡¯s million-dor gift, she had started noticing things like that.


    ¡°Ms. Moore, I need you to design me a dress,¡± one of the women said to Ellie. ¡°My friend¡¯s wedding is next month, and I¡¯ll be one of the bridesmaids. Make me a dress that¡¯s breathtaking.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s attention sharpened at once. Maybe this was her chance. If she yed it right, she could get that order.


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 Chapter 1684

    ?Chapter 1684:


    Ellie noticed Sandra heading her way but didn¡¯t pay much attention to her. The thought of Sandra trying to steal her client never crossed her mind.


    She just offered a polite smile to Sandra before turning back. ¡°Of course, Ms. Briggs. Drop by the studio tomorrow so we can review the details and take your measurements.¡±


    The woman¡¯s face brightened. ¡°Perfect! Ellie, I adore your designs. They¡¯re so refined and stylish. My mom and sister also love your designs. We always get a fresh set of outfits from your studio each year.¡±


    ¡°Thank you so much for the continued support,¡± said Ellie with genuine warmth.


    The woman¡¯spanion also spoke up, saying she wanted to have a custom piece made as well.


    The group lingered in cheerful conversation before going their separate ways. Sandra, standing nearby, had caught every word and was already scheming how to sway those clients to her side.


    When the two women left Ellie¡¯s side, Sandra made her move.


    ¡°Ms. Briggs, Ms. Gill, I now run a high-end boutique that offers custom-made clothes. My designs are very stylish. Would you be open to ordering something from me? I can provide a special discount.¡±


    One woman responded politely, ¡°That¡¯s very kind of you, but no thank you. We¡¯ve been customers of Ms. Moore¡¯s studio for years and couldn¡¯t be happier. Perhaps there¡¯ll be a chance for us to order from your studio in the future.¡±


    The polite refusal left Sandra disappointed. She hadn¡¯t expected breaking into the industry to be so difficult.


    Did she truly have to rely on the Harper family to get her studio running?


    As the crowd thinned out, the lively chatter faded, and soon, even the Harper family had left, leaving Sandra to deal with the aftermath of the event.


    She stood quietly, scanning the tables. Only a small portion of the desserts and drinks had been touched.


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    Usually, the restaurant managed the cleanup and disposal.


    Sandra had discussed this arrangement with the restaurant before, yet now, seeing all the uneaten food and sealed bottles, she couldn¡¯t help thinking it was wasteful to hand everything over to the restaurant. It seemed like throwing money away.


    Even so, the thought of asking the staff to pack it all up for her made her uneasy. She believed the staff would look down on her.


    She felt torn, not knowing what to do.


    Just then, Keira walked over, the restaurant¡¯s event manager trailing reluctantly at her side.


    ¡°Sandra, can you believe all this wine and cakes are still untouched?¡± Keira eximed. ¡°I talked to the manager¡ªsome of these bottles cost thousands, even tens of thousands! And those cakes? They¡¯d go for hundreds a slice at top bakeries. It¡¯s ridiculous to throw them away or leave them to the restaurant. We should take them! You could use them for promotions at your store instead of letting the restaurant keep them.¡±


    Her words made the manager visibly annoyed. He¡¯d already heard the whispers among guests¡ªthe talk that Sandra was Shepard¡¯s illegitimate daughter from a modest upbringing. To him, her mother¡¯s eagerness to take the leftovers only confirmed it.


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 Chapter 1685

    ?Chapter 1685:


    Sandra wished she could disappear now. What her mother was doing was humiliating. People from wealthy families never fussed over leftovers. They would have walked away without a second thought.


    Throwing a grand event like this always meant giving the restaurant a little room to profit.


    Sandra understood that, and though she hated the waste, she valued her dignity more. ¡°It¡¯s really not worth much. Let¡¯s just leave them here,¡± she said quietly.


    Keira¡¯s expression hardened. ¡°Absolutely not! Do you realize that a single slice of that cake costs hundreds? And the wine¡ªthese are luxurybels. One bottle alone is worth a fortune. You might be a member of the Harper family now, but that doesn¡¯t mean you should toss money away. Remember how we used to struggle? Having money doesn¡¯t mean you can start wasting it.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s patience wore thin under the lecture. Keira¡¯s views werepletely out of step with her new status.


    Sandra believed this was mortifying, more so when the manager rolled his eyes several times.


    Still, Keira stayed firm. ¡°Have someone send all of this to the CloudPath store on the pedestrian mall tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Alright,¡± muttered the manager, clearly displeased.


    As Keira and Sandra were leaving, Keira spotted the towering seven-tier cake and stopped to take the remaining cake. ¡°This cake must¡¯ve cost tens of thousands! The guests barely touched two tiers. Are you seriously going to let the restaurant take the rest? Have you lost your mind?¡±


    In the car, Keira chatted away, her voice bright with excitement. ¡°Sandra, that cake was amazing! And the wine? Oh, it was so good. I swear, it¡¯s the first time in my life I¡¯ve ever had anything that delicious. My friends couldn¡¯t stop talking about it. I told them to take some cake home for their grandkids and grab a couple of bottles of wine. You don¡¯t mind that, right?¡±


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    Sandra slumped against her seat and mumbled, ¡°I don¡¯t care, Mom. Give them to whoever you want.¡±


    She felt humiliated. She had gone out of her way to make things special, only to end up embarrassing herself again.


    So what if the Harpers didn¡¯t throw her a birthday party? She and her mother could¡¯ve celebrated her birthday at home. Why had she felt the need to go and hold a birthday party only to make a fool of herself?


    Beside her, Keira kept talking,pletely unaware of the storm brewing inside her daughter.


    ¡°Tons of guests showed up! I even saw a few people from TV. Sandra, you¡¯ve got serious clout now. You¡¯ve really made it big¡­¡±


    After dropping her mother off, Sandra got home close to eleven. The Harpers were still up. As she made her way up to the third floor, a sharp exchange of voices drifted through the slightly open door at the end of the corridor. It was Giselle and Shepard arguing.


    Giselle¡¯s voice was filled with fury. ¡°This is all your fault! Why¡¯d you let her throw that party? An illegitimate daughter should stay out of sight, not go out and humiliate us like that! Do you even realize what you¡¯ve done? My colleagues, the same ones who can barely stand me, areughing behind my back! They¡¯re saying you cheated on me, and I didn¡¯t even have the sense to divorce you. Shepard, I regret everything now¡­¡±AdChoicesADVERTISING


    Shepard reached out and drew Giselle into his arms. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, honey. I swear I had no idea she¡¯d bring her mom there. If I¡¯d known, I would¡¯ve stopped her from holding the party. I didn¡¯t think it through. I promise it won¡¯t happen again.¡±


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 Chapter 1686

    ?Chapter 1686:


    Giselle snapped, ¡°You¡¯d better keep her in line. I¡¯m warning you, Shepard, my patience is wearing thin. Push me one more time, and I¡¯ll divorce you!¡±


    Out in the hallway, Sandra stood frozen, her heart pounding as the words sliced through her.


    Unable to hear anything more, she turned away and stormed to her room. Once the door shut behind her, she sank onto the couch and broke down in tears.


    The next morning, her eyes were swollen and rimmed with red. She took a long breath, gathered herself, and reached for her makeup. Layer byyer, she painted over her face to hide the dark circles under her eyes.


    At breakfast, Giselle sat at the head of the table, holding her phone as she spoke animatedly. ¡°Happy birthday, Dalton! I meant to tell you yesterday, but you¡¯re all the way in Ubrax, where it¡¯s still May 4th. These time zones are wild. Here, we¡¯ve already moved past May 5th, but you¡¯re still living in it.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, Mom!¡± Dalton replied on the other end of the line. ¡°So, what are you eating today? Please tell me you¡¯ve had a proper meal.¡±


    Dalton shrugged. ¡°What else? Set catering, of course. Out here in Ubrax, you¡¯re lucky to even get anything decent. The boxed meals aren¡¯t bad, though. At least we don¡¯t have pirates or thugs causing trouble this time, so I¡¯ll take that as a win.¡±


    Sandra sat quietly at the table, having heard the entire conversation. It was only then that it dawned on her. She and Dalton shared the same birthday.


    Giselle had gone out of her way to call him because of it, but she had forgotten Sandra¡¯s.


    Her bias was evident.


    Dalton didn¡¯t even hold a party, but he was surrounded by genuine love.


    Momentster, Brenna came down the stairs, followed by Ernst and Lilith. One by one, they gathered around Giselle¡¯s phone to talk to Dalton and wish him a happy birthday.


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    Sandra bit back the bitterness rising in her chest and forced a ¡°Happy birthday¡± to Dalton.


    In the evening, Brenna and Ethan stayed at the office longer than usual. After finally leaving thepany at seven, they drove to a high-end restaurant.


    As they stepped inside, Brenna¡¯s eyes drifted toward a nearby corridor. Jalen was there, walking beside a middle-aged man. The two soon disappeared into a private dining room.


    Brenna leaned closer to Ethan and muttered, ¡°Didn¡¯t Jalen say he was broke? How could he afford to dine in a ce like this?¡±


    Ethan shrugged nonchntly. ¡°Maybe hispanion is paying.¡±


    Brenna shook her head, unconvinced. ¡°Nah. I¡¯d bet he¡¯s the one treating people to a meal. His dad¡¯s in jail, and he¡¯s been tangled up in his own messtely. He¡¯s probably here trying to pull some strings or ask for a favor. But dining in a ce like this won¡¯t be cheap. There¡¯s no way he can really afford it.¡±


    Ethan nodded. ¡°Whatever it is, it¡¯s his problem. You don¡¯t have to care. Want a drink?¡±


    ¡°Alright,¡± Brenna said, skimming the menu while chatting with Ethan. ¡°By the way, how¡¯s your mom these days?¡±


    Ethan leaned in, looking at the menu with her. ¡°She¡¯s having the time of her life up in the mountains. Loves being around the kids, but the altitude¡¯s been a pain to get used to. Her teaching stint¡¯s almost over; she¡¯ll be back in maybe another week or so. She¡¯s been teaching the children songs¡ªsays it brightens her days.¡±


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 Chapter 1687

    ?Chapter 1687:


    Brenna chuckled. ¡°You should line up more things like that for her. Retirees need something to keep their hands and minds busy.¡±


    Ethan nodded. ¡°Exactly. If she¡¯s got nothing to do, she¡¯ll start meddling in our lives.¡±


    They shared a knowing smile.


    ¡°I¡¯ll have Rex look into other projects she can join,¡± Ethan added.


    After dinner, as they were about to leave the restaurant, they spotted Jalen stepping out of the private dining room. He had just seen off his guest, and a server was waiting with the bill in hand. She turned to Jalen and said politely, ¡°Sir, your total is one hundred and twenty-eight thousand. How would you like to pay?¡±


    The server¡¯s polite smile didn¡¯t hide the way her gaze lingered on Jalen with judgment. She could tell at a nce that his clothes weren¡¯t designer¡ªnot that she meant to judge, but it was hard to imagine he could foot a bill like that. Jalen¡¯s whole outfit probably cost less than a thousand.


    Sure enough, Jalen stared at her, ck-jawed. ¡°Hold up¡ªhow much?¡±


    The server repeated, ¡°One hundred and twenty-eight thousand dors.¡±


    Jalen felt like his world had just copsed. ¡°No way! I did the math¡ªeight dishes, maybe eight thousand, plus two mains for about a hundred each. That¡¯s barely ten grand! How the hell did it jump to such a price? You trying to rip me off?¡±


    Unfazed, the server calmly exined, ¡°We run an honest business, sir. You ordered a premium bottle of wine¡ªit¡¯s priced at more than one hundred thousand dors. How would you like to pay?¡±


    She could tell he was t-out broke, and she was ready to call security if things went south.


    Jalen¡¯s legs nearly gave out. He had thought the wine was just a few thousand dors. Now, he felt like the ground had dropped out from under him. What the hell was he supposed to do? He didn¡¯t have enough money to pay for the meal.


    Then, like a miracle, he spotted Brenna. Perfect. She might not like him much, but they were still family. Surely, she would help him.


    L?t??¦Ó §éh?¦Ñ¦Ó?r? ¦Én g¨»l??¦Ïv?l?.§ão??


    He strode over to her. ¡°Hey, Brenna! You guys are having a meal here, too? Is this your boyfriend?¡±


    Brenna nced at him coolly. ¡°Yeah. What are you doing in a ce like this? It¡¯s pretty high-end.¡±


    Her implication was unmistakable¡ªthis ce was way out of his price range.


    She had zero intention of covering his bill.


    Jalen wasn¡¯t blind to the fact that the Harpers thought little of him. Still, he kept trying to get closer to them. After all, their power and prestige were gxies beyond his league. One nod of approval from them could change everything for him.


    ¡°I was treating a friend here,¡± he said quickly. ¡°Trying to pull a few strings. Gotta pick a nice ce for that, right? I swear, I ordered simple stuff¡ªhad no clue that a bottle of wine would cost a fortune. I¡¯m a little short on cash right now. Mind lending me some?¡±


    He said ¡°lend,¡± but he had no intention of paying it back. To the Harpers, a hundred grand was pocket change. Like they would even notice if he never paid it back.


    Jalen¡¯s eyes lit up with a flicker of hope, and he waited for Brenna¡¯s response. To her, the meal wouldn¡¯t be expensive. To him, though, it was half a year¡¯s sry.


    Brenna¡¯s expression stayed nk as she looked at Jalen. ¡°I¡¯m not lending you money,¡± she said tly.


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 Chapter 1688

    ?Chapter 1688:


    Jalen¡¯s smile faltered, but he forced out a weakugh. ¡°Come on, Brenna, don¡¯t be like that. I¡¯ll pay you back soon, I swear. You know how things have been¡ªmy mom just passed, and I¡¯ve been drowning in medical bills. Just help me out here, please?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s face was a mask of frost, her annoyance simmering beneath the surface. Her mother loathed Wesley, a man far from virtuous, and she believed Jalen, Wesley¡¯s son, was cut from the same cloth.


    She had plenty of money but no desire to spare him a single cent.


    Ethan, less familiar with the situation, stayed quiet. He rarely saw Brenna act so cold toward family. Even with Sandra, whom she didn¡¯t like, Brenna yed the part of a supportive sister, showing up when asked.


    He believed Jalen must be a bad person for Brenna to treat him like this.


    Ethan stood there, letting Brenna handle the matter.


    Jalen felt Brenna¡¯s reluctance to help, a sinking dread settling in. He knew her contempt toward him was due to his father¡¯s bad deeds.


    Leaning in, he said, ¡°Brenna, I¡¯m in a tough spot right now. I know my dad was terrible back then. Even I think he crossed the line. He was so self-centered, and he had the nerve to plead for Giselle¡¯s forgiveness. I¡¯m ashamed of him.¡±


    He exhaled heavily. ¡°You can¡¯t imagine how domineering he was at home. Everything revolved around him; everyone else¡¯s needs camest. If Conor or I defied him, he wouldsh out, striking our mother and us. We didn¡¯t enable him; we just had no choice.¡±


    Jalen paused for a moment. ¡°Don¡¯t fall for his ¡®devoted husband and father¡¯ facade. At home, he was a tyrant. He earned his prison sentence. But my mother couldn¡¯t hold on¡ªshe had liver cancer and was always in agony. Conor and I borrowed from everyone to treat her. I¡¯m really broke. Please, help me this time. I¡¯ll repay you. My mother is gone, and my dad is behind bars, but we¡¯ve got to keep going¡ªpay debts, raise kids. My dad¡¯s mess might cost me my job. I¡¯m treating someone to a meal here tonight to save my position. I wouldn¡¯t be here if I weren¡¯t desperate.¡±


    g?ln¦Ò¦Í????s©q??????, the heart of fiction


    Brenna listened, unmoved, not believing a syble. She didn¡¯t know Jalen well, but her experience with people told her he was likely weaving a sob story to swindle her.


    ¡°You want me to lend you some money? Fine. Write an IOU, and I have one condition,¡± she said.


    Jalen¡¯s spirits soared at that. He was convinced his slick words had swayed her. His father had failed to gain the Harper family¡¯s favor, but he was confident his persuasive charm could win over anyone.


    Keeping his expression calm, he said, ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll write it.¡±


    Brenna signaled a server for paper and a pen. Jalen then retreated to the private room, hastily drafting the IOU, intentionally misspelling his name.


    In the corridor, Brenna said to Ethan, ¡°Can you call mywyer over?¡±


    Ethan nodded and made the call.


    Jalenpleted the IOU and presented it to Brenna with both hands.


    Brenna scanned it, seeing nothing out of ce. Jalen stood before her, feigningpliance. ¡°What is the condition?¡± Jalen asked.


    ¡°The condition is that you stay here and tend to tables until midnight.¡± Brenna nced at her watch. It was half past nine now. Two and a half hours remained.


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 Chapter 1689

    ?Chapter 1689:


    Jalen frowned. ¡°Can¡¯t you make me do something else? I¡¯m a government official. I¡¯ve got a reputation. If my colleagues or boss see me doing that, I¡¯ll be humiliated.¡±


    Hearing that, Brenna tore the IOU to pieces without a second thought. ¡°You have no money, yet you¡¯re dining in a ce like this? Why? I bet you¡¯ve got money; you just don¡¯t want to use it. You can cover this bill on your own.¡±


    Jalen stared at the shredded paper, powerless against Brenna¡¯s icy resolve.


    The wealthy were really cold and stubborn.


    Jalen nced at the server nearby. If he didn¡¯t pay, the restaurant would detain him. Left with no options, he relented. ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll write another IOU and tend to tables.¡±


    Jalen walked back into the private dining room, scribbling a new IOU before passing it to Brenna with a ttering smile.


    ¡°Brenna, can you cover the bill for me now?¡±


    He felt rather smug, having deliberately misspelled a character in his name on the IOU, effectively rendering it legally void. If Brenna paid, she would be throwing money away, and even awsuit wouldn¡¯t hold him ountable.


    Brenna, unfazed, asked coolly, ¡°How much cash do you have on you? Pay what you can first, and I¡¯ll cover the rest.¡± Her nce at the IOU was fleeting.


    Ethan, spotting the IOU¡¯s ws instantly, stayed silent, confident that Brenna, a seasoned CEO, would notice them too.


    Jalen had underestimated Brenna. He hadn¡¯t expected her to demand he pay first. Forcing a tight smile, he said, ¡°Brenna, I¡¯m short on cash. I can¡¯t be leftpletely penniless, can I?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s response was icy. ¡°That¡¯s not my problem.¡±


    Jalen, a master at dodging obligations, turned to the waiter with a shrug. ¡°And even if I wanted to serve tables here, they wouldn¡¯t let me. It¡¯s not my call. Besides, I¡¯m not trained; what if I drop a tray or break something?¡±AdChoicesADVERTISING


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    Just then, the restaurant manager approached, saying to Ethan and Brenna with great respect, ¡°Mr. Mitchell, Miss Harper, I¡¯m the manager here. If there¡¯s anything you need, just say the word.¡±


    Ethanid out the situation calmly. ¡°Jalen can¡¯t settle his bill. My girlfriend offered to cover it, but only if he works here as a waiter until midnight. Can you make that happen?¡±


    The manager nodded without hesitation. Ethan, a high-value VIP who often sealed business deals here, was a valued patron, and the restaurant asionally leaned on his influence.


    The arrangement was a small favor, easily granted.


    ¡°Of course, Mr. Mitchell. Is there anything else I can help with?¡± the manager said.


    Ethan exchanged a knowing look with Brenna, catching her intent. ¡°Jalen needs to work here until midnight, not a second less, before my girlfriend¡¯s ount is charged. And keep an eye on him¡ªif he cks off, she¡¯s not paying.¡±


    Jalen sighed inwardly, realizing that Brenna and Ethan, wealthy and shrewd, were deliberately making things difficult for him. They were clearly unwilling to lend him money.


    He had nned to slip out once they left, but they had seen through his scheme. Frustration boiled inside him.


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 Chapter 1690

    ?Chapter 1690:


    Forcing a smile, he said, ¡°Brenna, I¡¯m not bailing. You don¡¯t need to ask people to keep an eye on me. I signed the IOU, and I¡¯m a man of my word.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s gaze was unyielding, piercing through his false sincerity. ¡°Words are easy. We may be family, but I barely know you. What if you¡¯re just lying to me? This is my money; it didn¡¯t grow on trees.¡±


    Momentster, Clint Bernard, thewyer Ethan had called, arrived, approaching Ethan with clear respect. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, I hope I¡¯m notte.¡±


    Ethan handed him the IOU. ¡°You¡¯re right on time. Check this over¡ªsee any problems?¡±


    Turning to Jalen, he said, ¡°This is our corporatewyer. He handles our contracts and can spot a faulty IOU in seconds.¡±


    Jalen¡¯s nerves spiked, a strained smile masking his unease. ¡°It¡¯s just a small thing¡ªdo we really need awyer? Seems a bit much, Mr. Mitchell.¡±


    Ethan ignored his words.


    Clint, ever professional, scanned the IOU and immediately gged its issues. Three characters in his name looked suspicious, and the amount was vaguely listed as ¡°meal expenses.¡±


    ¡°This won¡¯t hold up. I¡¯ll draft a proper one. Once he signs and stamps it, we¡¯re set,¡± Clint said.


    ¡°Do we really have to go this far, Brenna? Are you just unwilling to lend the money to me?¡± Jalen asked, masking his growing desperation with anger. There was no way out of his debt, and that stung him more than he wanted to admit.


    Brenna crossed her arms and looked at him. ¡°That¡¯s right. I don¡¯t want to lend it to you. If you don¡¯t need my help, then I suppose I¡¯ll just leave.¡±


    Without waiting for his reply, she turned toward the door.


    Across the room, the restaurant manager exchanged a nce with the security team next to him. The guards stepped forward and closed in on Jalen. Their eyes held no pity. If he resisted, they would not think twice about making him regret it.


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    Seeing that, Jalen quickly reached out and caught Brenna by the arm. ¡°Don¡¯t go. I do need your help. I¡¯ll do as you say.¡±


    Drafting the IOU by hand, Clint paused and looked up. ¡°Mr. Bentley, right? May I see your social security card, please?¡±


    Jalen patted down his jacket and dug into his pants pockets, pretending to search for the card. The social security card was right there in his wallet, but he had no ns of showing it.


    Atst, he lifted his eyes to meet Clint¡¯s and said, ¡°I don¡¯t have it with me.¡±


    ¡°Then we can¡¯t proceed with this today. Please go back and get it,¡± Clint said with a serious expression.


    Before Jalen could reply, one of the security guards spoke up. ¡°We¡¯ll apany you to get it.¡±


    Rage simmered within Jalen. Why did they all have to be so sharp? He couldn¡¯t fool them, no matter what he tried.


    With a resigned sigh, he pulled out his wallet, thumbed through its contents, and finally held the card up. ¡°Ah, it seems I do have it on me after all.¡±


    Clint took the card and examined it. ¡°Mr. Bentley, did you identally misspell your name, or were you trying to trick us?¡±


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 Chapter 1691

    ?Chapter 1691:


    ¡°No, no. I just had a few drinks earlier, that¡¯s all. My head¡¯s a bit foggy,¡± Jalen quickly said.


    Brenna remained silent. She had seen through his little performance from the start. Still, she didn¡¯t say anything about it.


    She eyed Jalen and said evenly, ¡°Jalen, why don¡¯t you do the paperwork with Mr. Bernard? We¡¯ll leave the rest to him and head out.¡±


    Jalen sighed heavily. Every time he thought he could outsmart her, things proved otherwise. Brenna might be young, but she was not someone to be underestimated.


    Clint said, ¡°Mr. Bentley, the IOU you signed requires repayment within thirty days. If you don¡¯t pay, I will personally visit your ce of work and residence¡­¡±


    It was past nine in the evening, and Sandra¡¯s shop was still open, as were most stores along the pedestrian street. The street often stayed alive until eleven.


    Outside Sandra¡¯s shop, a promotional cart had been rolled to the front. Its shelves were stacked neatly with cakes and bottled drinks from the hotel.


    ¡°Gourmet cakes from a five-star restaurant on sale! Ten dors each. Pick any you like.¡± The recorded voice echoed over and over.


    A few customers still hovered around the stand, and business had been steady all day. By closing time, over a thousand cakes had been sold, leaving only thest batch on disy.


    Frustrated, Keira turned on Sandra and said, ¡°The price is too low. At a proper cake shop, these premium cakes would fetch about three hundred dors each. You¡¯re throwing money away. You should raise the price and take your time selling them. We¡¯re losing profit here.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s irritation red, and she snapped at her, ¡°Enough. Cakes in stores are sold fresh the same day. Ours onlyst a day. After about three days, they¡¯ll go bad. We need to sell them fast, so stopining.¡±


    Keira kept grumbling, but Sandra paid her no mind.


    g?ln¦Ò¦Í????s, the heart of storytelling


    ¡°We can¡¯t keep selling the drinks this cheap. I¡¯ll take them to a liquor store and see if the owner will buy them. You¡¯re too wasteful and careless with money. No matter how much you make, it won¡¯tst,¡± Keira said.


    Sandra let out a weary sigh. ¡°Do whatever you want with them.¡±


    Though deeply disappointed in the Harpers, she couldn¡¯t deny that she still relied on their help.


    She had hoped they could bring in clients for high-end custom orders to her store.


    But after seeing Ellie close a deal the night before, Sandra realized something important: the rich had their favorite designers already, and they seldom made a switch. Winning over new clients was going to be far from easy.


    Hidden away in the far reaches of the countryside, Brindleton Girls¡¯ School served as a private haven for young women, guided by the unwaveringmitment of its principal. Ainslie Campbell devoted her life to helping girls from forgotten viges pursue dreams they never thought possible. Elsa was inspired to join the teaching staff after learning about Ainslie¡¯s tireless work.


    Though a weekly music lesson appeared on the schedule, three decades had slipped by without an actual music ss.


    In these isted areas, most families barely got by. Young women usually got married before they turned twenty, expected to settle into a routine focused on raising children and managing a household.


    Even those lucky enough to enroll in high school often left after only a year or two.


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 Chapter 1692

    ?Chapter 1692:


    There were two main reasons for that: first, most locals believed girls didn¡¯t need an education; second, the cost was out of reach for many families.


    While Elsa had once toured these struggling viges as part of a military performance group, giving support to rural schools, it was living alongside the students that made her truly appreciate their hunger for knowledge and determination to break free from poverty.


    By Monday morning, the second-year fifth ss had their final period dedicated to music. Elsa pushed herpact electronic keyboard into the room, ready to begin.


    All thirty-five girls in the ss looked up to Elsa¡ªnot just for her graceful presence and striking looks, but also because she was a celebrated singer with national fame, a figure they dreamed of bing.


    Elsa made it a point to remember every student¡¯s name, face, and family situation. Whenever a family hit hard times, she quietly stepped in to help, using her own savings if necessary.


    Taking her usual look around as she entered the ssroom, Elsa immediately noticed an empty seat in the second row.


    A trace of sympathy for Debby showed in Mya¡¯s eyes as she replied, ¡°Mrs. Mitchell, they know, but they keep saying that a girl¡¯s education doesn¡¯t matter. To them, she¡¯ll just end up getting married and joining someone else¡¯s family anyway.¡±


    With a soft sigh, Elsa replied, ¡°You can take your seat. I¡¯ll stop by her houseter to talk with her family myself.¡±


    Situations like this happened every school year, though this was Elsa¡¯s first time facing one since joining Brindleton.


    Debby was one of the brightest students in ss, and her singing voice stood out from the rest. Elsa often met with her for extra lessons and had even promised to support her financially if she got epted to college.


    But now, things had suddenly taken a turn for the worse.


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    After ss, Elsa took some money and asked Mya to lead her to Debby¡¯s house.


    It took nearly two hours on foot to cover the distance, as Debby¡¯s home was far from the school.


    The stone cottages scattered along the vige bore clear traces of struggle. Outside one gate, a lone cow was tied up, while a few sheep nibbledzily on the sparse grass nearby.


    As they arrived, Mya pointed to the entrance. ¡°Mrs. Mitchell, this is where Debby lives,¡± she said, guiding Elsa inside.


    The room was simply furnished, with two wooden chairs topped with thin cushions and an old coffee table, beneath whichy scattered colored stones. In one corner stood a small round table holding several stic cups, encircled by short stools, while a wooden bed rested against the far wall.


    Seated on the bed beside a man in his sixties, Debby sat quietly. His hair was silver and one eye clouded with blindness as he reached out to hold her hand.


    When Debby saw Elsa, hope shed in her eyes. She rushed over, tears streaking her cheeks, and clung to Elsa¡¯s arm. ¡°Mrs. Mitchell, please, I don¡¯t want to get married. I want to keep going to school.¡±


    Everyone in the vige held Elsa in high esteem. Despite their hardships, many households owned televisions and instantly recognized her as the celebrated singer from TV.


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 Chapter 1693

    ?Chapter 1693:


    Gwen Moss, Debby¡¯s mother, gestured Elsa to the couch. ¡°Mrs. Mitchell, please sit down.¡±


    With a weary nce at Debby, Gwen let out a sigh. ¡°You¡¯ve always had faith in Debby, always said she¡¯s got real talent for singing. But lessons in the city? That¡¯s far beyond what we can afford. I heard a single year of study there costs tens of thousands, and we could nevere up with that kind of money.¡±


    Corbin Moss, Debby¡¯s father, a farmer who had always struggled to make ends meet, sat quietly nearby. Whatever little he earned went straight into getting his children through school.


    Lines of worry deepened on Corbin¡¯s face. ¡°Mrs. Mitchell, girls around here rarely finish middle school. Sending a daughter to high school is almost unheard of¡ªmaybe only several people here have managed to do that. It¡¯s not that I want Debby to quit, but our pockets are empty. Now, Lukas is sick, and the local doctor says we need to get him treated in the city. Paying for that would mean selling everything we own.¡±


    Something about the stones beneath the coffee table caught Elsa¡¯s attention. She walked over, picked one up, and immediately noticed its deep green core.


    With a sh of frustration, she ced it firmly on the table. ¡°Don¡¯t pretend you have nothing. Even one of these stones could go for tens of thousands. A handful could be worth a fortune.¡±


    No one in the family looked shocked. Corbin simply shook his head. ¡°I¡¯m being straight with you, Mrs. Mitchell. When I first dug those up, I hoped they were valuable, too. But Baylor Watson, who¡¯s from around here, told me they¡¯re not worth much. I only kept them because I couldn¡¯t bring myself to just throw them away.¡±


    Elsa paused, suspicion flickering across her face. Gemstones weren¡¯t her area of expertise, but the vivid color of the stones suggested they were jade or something equally rare. She asked, ¡°What does Baylor actually do? Is he qualified to evaluate these stones? Did you ever ask anyone else?¡±


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    Corbin exined, ¡°Baylor¡¯s the richest man in our vige. They say he bought a million-dor condo in Shirie. He¡¯s a gemstone dealer. These hills are full of stones like that¡ªsome valuable, most not. Everyone brings their finds to him. Usually, they¡¯re not worth much, but we end up selling them to him anyway.¡±


    To Elsa, who had seen her share of swindles, the whole thing seemed suspicious.


    She said, ¡°Mr. Moss, my son works in business and knows people in the gemstone industry. If you¡¯re willing, I¡¯ll have him take a look at these stones. If they¡¯re worth anything, maybe you won¡¯t need to marry Debby off. What do you think?¡±


    Corbin eyed the pile¡ªstones of all shapes and sizes, none of which he believed would fetch more than a few bucks. Elsa had been giving Debby music lessons for free, teaching her to sing, read notes, and y the keyboard. Every time Debby came home, she couldn¡¯t stop talking about how much she admired Elsa.


    He figured he could give these stones to Elsa. This was the least he could do to show her his gratitude. In his mind, the stones held little value anyway.


    Nodding without hesitation, he replied, ¡°That¡¯s fine. I¡¯ll bring them over myself. But Lukas needs treatment soon. We¡¯re grateful for everything you¡¯ve done for Debby, but right now, we have no choice but to make her marry Nigel.¡±


    Nigel, who had stayed silent up to that point, had thought Corbin would go back on his word and disliked Elsa for swaying him.


    But after hearing Corbin¡¯s words, he let out a relievedugh and reached over to seize Debby¡¯s hand, wanting to take her away.


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 Chapter 1694

    ?Chapter 1694:


    Elsa¡¯s voice rang out, sharp andmanding. ¡°Not so fast! While I¡¯m here, Debby¡¯s not going anywhere with you. She¡¯s only seventeen¡ªfar too young for marriage, and it isn¡¯t even legal.¡±


    Nigel¡¯s left eye was blind, and three deep scars crisscrossed his face, remnants, people said, of a bear mauling during a mountain hunt in his youth. His injuries were the reason why he still hadn¡¯t gotten married.


    No parent would ever want to let their daughter marry someone like him.


    If Corbin weren¡¯t desperate, he¡¯d never have considered letting Debby marry him.


    Debby wept so hard that her shoulders shook as she clung to Elsa for safety. ¡°Mrs. Mitchell, please, I¡¯m begging you. Don¡¯t let them force me into marriage. I just want to keep studying, to keep learning to sing under your guidance.¡±


    A surge of rage twisted Nigel¡¯s features until his face looked monstrous. The sheer force of his anger made everyone shrink back in dread.


    Straightening his back, he towered over the others. ¡°Mrs. Mitchell, I truly admire you; you are a respected singer and a kind person. But I must ask you not to interfere in my business. I¡¯ve already paid Debby¡¯s family, and that gives me every right to take Debby home. I may not be handsome, but I have a good heart. She¡¯ll be treated well. In a few years, she¡¯ll have two sons for me, and every woman in the vige will envy her.¡±


    Without hesitation, he lunged forward to seize Debby¡¯s arm.


    Elsa stepped in front of her, fury lighting her eyes. ¡°Debby said she doesn¡¯t want to marry you. What gives you the right to take her by force? I won¡¯t allow it!¡±


    Corbin and Gwen exchanged uneasy nces. Shifting nervously, Gwen reached for Debby. ¡°Mrs. Mitchell, please, this isn¡¯t your concern. We¡¯re at our wits¡¯ end. It¡¯s the only way we can pay for Lukas¡¯s treatment.¡±


    Tears spilled down Gwen¡¯s cheeks as she held Debby tightly.


    ¡°I can earn the money myself. I¡¯ll drop out of school if I have to. Just don¡¯t make me marry him. Please, I¡¯m begging you!¡± Debby fell to her knees before her parents, her voice cracking with desperation.


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    Elsa reached into her purse, drew out some cash, and mmed the bills onto the table. ¡°Here¡¯s thirty thousand. Use it for Lukas¡¯s treatment. Debby ising with me.¡±


    Then she took Debby by the arm, ready to leave with her.


    Nigel¡¯s temper red. His ns for marriage were ruined. ¡°She is my wife! How dare you take her away?¡±


    Elsa answered Nigel with matching fury, ¡°What? Do you want to hit me to stop me or something?¡±


    With a resentful snort, Nigel scooped up the money he had brought, twenty thousand dors, and stormed out.


    Relief washed over Debby as she wiped her face. ¡°Thank you, Mrs. Mitchell. If you had not stepped in, I would have been forced to marry him today.¡±


    Corbin was caught off guard by Elsa¡¯s kindness. Seeing the thirty thousand, he felt his chest tighten with emotion.


    He and his wife looked at Elsa with heartfelt gratitude. Gwen spoke softly. ¡°Mrs. Mitchell, we can¡¯t take your money. We¡¯d never be able to pay you back.¡±


    Elsa stepped closer, her voice steady with concern. ¡°There are not many young people left in the vige. Most have left to find work, right?¡±


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 Chapter 1695

    ?Chapter 1695:


    Gwen nodded. ¡°Everyone says life here is too hard. It is easier to earn money elsewhere. Those who had the chance to leave already have, and some never came back. But we cannot abandon the elderly or the children here. Even if we leave with the children, we can¡¯t make a living on our own.¡±


    Elsa made a soft sound of agreement. ¡°First, take your son to a proper doctor. His condition might not be serious. Do not rely on the vige doctor. He is notpetent. As for these stones, have someone bring them to me. They could be worth something.¡±


    Gwen replied at once, ¡°All right. I will send my nephews to get the stones to you.¡±


    Then Elsa took Debby back to school.


    Corbin released a long breath and said to Gwen, ¡°Mrs. Mitchell is such a good person!¡±


    Gwen¡¯s eyes welled up with tears. ¡°Tell Rogelio and Baldrick to deliver the stones.¡±


    Her brow tightened as she turned to her husband. ¡°Do you think Baylor fooled us? If these stones really have value, then he has robbed the whole vige. That man has no conscience. We¡¯ll confront him the moment he gets back!¡±


    A shadow crossed Corbin¡¯s face. ¡°Probably. Let us wait until Mrs. Mitchell¡¯s son examines them. If the stones are really valuable, he clearly purchased our stones for next to nothing and sold them in the city for a fortune before. We will not let him get away with it.¡±


    ¡°I knew it! Stones that beautiful couldn¡¯t possibly be worthless. He has been fooling us from the very beginning!¡±


    Gwen¡¯s eyes gleamed with sudden excitement. ¡°What if we gather a few more from the cave? When we take Lukas to the city for treatment, we can have them appraised by someone there.¡±


    Corbin shook his head firmly. ¡°No, those folks can¡¯t be trusted. I only trust Mrs. Mitchell!¡±


    As dusk settled, Elsa and Debby arrived back at the school, just in time for the canteen¡¯s modest dinner.


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    The meal was simple, with little meat, but it was cheap. To cut costs, some students brought homemade pickles rather than buying any.


    Though the food was far from good, Elsa remained devoted to staying here for the children¡¯s sake.


    Aware of her privileged background, the school asionally offered her special dishes.


    Now and then, she¡¯d venture to the county to purchase food to bring back.


    After dinner, she retreated to her dorm to inspect the stones, their cores exposed through precisely cut openings.


    Thergest gleamed green, two others shimmered with a creamy white, and the rest¡ªroughly fist-sized¡ªspanned hues of purple, yellow, and red, with the smallest a deep ck.


    Elsa was convinced they were jade.


    She carefully packed them, ready for the courier to collect the next day.


    Four dayster, Ethan received the delivery.


    Neville and Rex entered his office, arms full of packages, and began unpacking them.


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 Chapter 1696

    ?Chapter 1696:


    Neville grinned. ¡°I¡¯m dying to know why Mrs. Mitchell sent these rocks. They look beautiful¡ªcould they actually be jade?¡±


    Ethan held a fist-sized stone, illuminating its sliced surface with a shlight to study its inner texture.


    ¡°It appears to be jade. This one¡¯s quality is remarkable¡ªpotentially worth millions if crafted into a bracelet.¡± He sensed he hade across a potentially lucrative opportunity.


    ¡°This yellow one is beautiful, too; you don¡¯t see that shade often.¡± Neville and Rex examined the stones closely.


    Though not an expert, Ethan could tell their quality was notable, but a professional valuation was needed to confirm their worth.


    ¡°My mom mentioned that many families in Brindleton often find stones like these in the mountains. She¡¯s convinced there¡¯s a jade mine and urged me to check it out,¡± Ethan said.


    Buried in work, he still intended to make the trip soon.


    He turned to Neville. ¡°Did you get in touch with Dustin Guerrero?¡± His gaze was fixed on thergest stone, wondering if it might be a rare jade, though he wasn¡¯t certain.


    ¡°Everything is set. He¡¯s ready for us to bring him the stones,¡± Neville replied, turning one over in his hand. ¡°Should we head out now?¡±


    Ethan nodded. ¡°Yeah, let¡¯s go and grab a meal together.¡±


    Dustin, who owned a stall in the antique market, was a seasoned expert in jade and other valuables.


    On the way, Ethan dialed Elsa, who had just finished teaching and was walking to the canteen for lunch.


    ¡°Mom, your stones arrived. They look like top-notch jade. I¡¯m taking them to a friend for a proper evaluation,¡± he said calmly.


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    Elsa was in a good mood. ¡°That¡¯s incredible! If they¡¯re valuable, that¡¯s a game-changer. Locals here have simr stones, but the nearby jade dealer ims they¡¯re worthless, offering little for them. I¡¯m sure he¡¯s ripping them off. You should visit soon¡ªthe school¡¯s roof is leaking, and the rainy season is near. Could you help fix it and bring some sports equipment, musical instruments, and books? It¡¯s pretty tough here.¡±


    Elsa listed her requests, and Ethan agreed without hesitation, moved by her evident joy in her work.


    ¡°What are you going to have for lunch, Mom?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Just simple pasta.¡±


    ¡°And any sides?¡±


    ¡°Boiled cabbage with onions.¡±


    Ethan knew that the food there was worlds away from the refined cuisine prepared by a private chef at a five-star restaurant. He was shocked that Elsa didn¡¯tin about it.


    A blend of relief and concern surged through Ethan as he realized his mother had finally discovered a rewarding profession. Despite challenging conditions, Elsa remained uining, her phone calls filled with enthusiasm for her students, her tone radiating a vibrancy surpassing her days with the theater group.


    ¡°You won¡¯t believe what happened recently,¡± Elsa said. ¡°One of my brightest students, blessed with extraordinary musical ability, faced a forced marriage to an older, visually impaired man because her family needed money for her brother¡¯s medical care. I couldn¡¯t let her potential be buried, so I provided thirty thousand to secure her return.¡±


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 Chapter 1697

    ?Chapter 1697:


    As she entered the school cafeteria, a wave of student greetings echoed through the microphone, reaching Ethan¡¯s ears.


    She requested a simple meal of pasta and boiled cabbage with onions, and the staff, in a kind gesture, reserved a chicken drumstick for her.


    Sitting down, she continued, ¡°She¡¯s remarkably gifted and destined to be a rare talent in music.¡±


    In the past, Ethan and Elsa¡¯s interactions were often tense, never as harmonious as they were now.


    Ethan realized his mother possessed a profound respect for talent and a radiant quality to her soul.


    ¡°Mom, look after yourself. I¡¯ll bring people there to visit in a few days,¡± he said.


    Elsa responded softly, ¡°Make sure to bring everything I listed, and some meat. The kids heree from poor households and can¡¯t afford it. The principal tries to improve their meals, but resources are scarce, and meat at every meal is not something he could afford.¡±


    Ethan hung up when he arrived at Dustin¡¯s store.


    In his mid-thirties, Dustin had a gleaming jade pendant dangling from his neck and an oud bracelet encircling his wrist, reflecting his family¡¯s deep-rooted legacy in the antique business, where they honed a sharp instinct for spotting valuable artifacts.


    ¡°Wow, these are remarkable! Where did you get them?¡± Dustin¡¯s trained eye instantly gauged the value of the stones resting in the car¡¯s backseat.


    ¡°My mother collected these from the mountains. They seem promising, but I¡¯m not sure. I wanted your expert opinion,¡± Ethan said.


    Neville and Rex assisted in hauling the stones indoors. Using his specialized equipment, Dustin cast a beam of light across the rocks.


    ¡°Let¡¯s crack them open; they look like high-grade material,¡± Dustin said.


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    ¡°Go for it,¡± Ethan replied, a spark of excitement flickering in his chest.


    If the stones, unearthed by mountain vigers, proved valuable, it could signal the presence of an actual mine.


    Dustin selected a fist-sized purple stone and carefully split it. Its interior revealed a rich, glossy purple with minimal impurities.


    ¡°This is exceptional,¡± Dustin remarked, sweeping his shlight over it again. ¡°This is top-quality material. You could craft several bracelets, a figurine, and multiple nes from it, easily fetching hundreds of thousands.¡±


    Mindful of Elsa¡¯s warning to deal fairly with Debby¡¯s family, Ethan inquired, ¡°What¡¯s the value of this stone in its raw state?¡±


    Dustin raised three fingers. ¡°Thirty thousand.¡±


    Ethan nodded. ¡°Let¡¯s examine the rest.¡±


    Dustin was equally eager to check the rest, but disappointingly, only thergest stone contained jade of decent, though not elite, quality; the others werergely worthless.


    ¡°So, will you sell them? Since we¡¯re old friends, I¡¯ll offer two hundred and thirty thousand for the two valuable ones,¡± he said to Ethan.


    Ethan promptly agreed, sealing the deal.


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 Chapter 1698

    ?Chapter 1698:


    While they had a meal together, Ethan suggested, ¡°I¡¯m heading to Brindleton soon¡ªthere might be a jade mine. Want to join?¡±


    Dustinughed. ¡°I know about jade, but not mining. But I can connect you with my dad¡¯s friend, a retired professor in his sixties. He¡¯s the expert you need.¡±


    As they finalized the n, Ethan¡¯s phone buzzed¡ªit was Brenna calling.


    Beaming with enthusiasm, Brenna was waiting in Ethan¡¯s office. ¡°I just had lunch with Darwin, and he mentioned a potential jade mine in Brindleton, suggesting I go there and take a look.¡±


    Ethan, caught off guard, asked, ¡°How does he know that?¡±


    Brenna exined, ¡°Brindleton¡¯s jade mines were first mined over a hundred years ago. After so many years of relentless digging, the supply of quality jade dried up, and most of the mines have been abandonedtely. But just a few days ago, at a gathering for jade dealers, there was a buzz. Several traders said they¡¯d gotten new jade from Brindleton. That led to rumors of a new mine being discovered there. Once Darwin heard the news, he suggested I look into it.¡±


    Ethan gave a lightugh. ¡°That¡¯s great timing. Let¡¯s go and check it out together; I¡¯ll bring a friend along for the ride.¡±


    After a quick chat, he hung up.


    Dustin perked up with interest. ¡°Count me in. Maybe I¡¯ll get lucky and find something good.¡±


    ¡°Alright then. We¡¯ll stop by the retired professor¡¯s ce first,¡± Ethan replied.


    Dustin arranged for his father to join him, and together, they visited the professor, who happily agreed to join the trip. He brought along his top student, Aikin Hussain, who ran apany specializing in mineral exploration.


    Ethan set aside three days for everyone to get ready. After three days, he booked a helicopter to fly himself and Brenna straight to Brindleton Girls¡¯ School.


    Everyone else hit the road by car, setting off before them. Given Brindleton¡¯s distance from the city, Ethan and Brenna got an early start, taking off a little after six in the morning.


    The convoy was already on their way by two.


    By eight, the helicopter touched down right on the grounds of Brindleton Girls¡¯ School.


    Ainslie stood at the front of a weing group of teachers and students, with Elsa waiting among them.


    Instead of dressing up, Ethan and Brenna kept it casual, sneakers on their feet, luggage in hand.


    Ethan, youthful and striking, carried himself with a charisma that could put movie stars to shame. Brenna¡¯s good looks and intelligence matched his energy, and as they stepped out together, cheers and excited chatter broke out among the students and faculty.


    Ethan offered Brenna his hand, helping her down from the helicopter. Their close connection was obvious, and plenty of high school girls eyed them with a mix of admiration and envy.


    Ainslie came forward to greet them with a handshake. ¡°Wee, Mr. Mitchell! Wee, Ms. Harper!¡±


    Elsa had introduced her son and Brenna to Ainslie before. When she talked about Brenna, she chose to highlight Brenna¡¯s rtionship with Ethan before mentioning her career. Ainslie, who had always held aplished women in high regard, saw Brenna differently than Elsa and addressed her with genuine respect.


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 Chapter 1699

    ?Chapter 1699:


    Brenna studied Ainslie carefully, taking in her simple clothes. The woman looked to be around fifty, her silver-streaked hair and slightly hunched frame hinting at old health problems. Yet beneath that, Brenna sensed a calm, steady strength.


    ¡°It¡¯s wonderful to finally meet you, Ms. Campbell. I¡¯ve admired your journey for a long time. You poured your own savings into building this high school here in Brindleton, offering free education and meals to girls who need it the most. You¡¯re a real inspiration for people like me,¡± Brenna said.


    She and Ainslie exchanged a firm handshake, their mutual excitement in to see.


    Ainslie, just as pleased to meet Brenna, responded warmly, ¡°I¡¯m quite familiar with your achievements. You run your ownpany, and you¡¯re involved in innovative technology projects. You are truly remarkable. I know our students would love to hear you give a speech. Would you consider giving some lessons while you¡¯re here?¡±


    ¡°Of course, I¡¯d be honored,¡± Brenna replied without hesitation.


    Ethan greeted Ainslie as well. Then his phone buzzed with a new message. Neville and Rex had just arrived with the convoy at the school¡¯s gate.


    Showing respect for Ainslie, Ethan said politely, ¡°We brought some supplies with us. They should be arriving at the school entrance right about now. Would you like toe with us to check?¡±


    Elsa couldn¡¯t hide her pride. For the first time, she felt that her son was very dependable.


    The group made their way to the gate, where an impressive convoy lined the roadside.


    There were eleven vehicles in all¡ªthree sedans and eightrge semi-trailers.


    Neville approached, handing Ethan a sheet. ¡°Here¡¯s the list of supplies, Mr. Mitchell. Take a look.¡±


    Ethan gave it a quick scan before passing it to Ainslie. ¡°Ms. Campbell, consider this a small gesture from us. If there¡¯s anything else you need, just say the word, and I¡¯ll see that it gets delivered.¡±


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    Brindleton Girls¡¯ School, home to more than three thousand students and faculty, stood as one of therger institutions in the region. Though founded over twenty years ago, it had weathered harsh conditions. Both the ssrooms and dormitories bore the marks of time, having gone years without proper repairs.


    The dormitories were packed, each room holding about seventeen students. Still, because of the modest fees¡ªand in some cases, full tuition exemptions¡ªthe ce remained one of the few affordable options for families from distant and struggling homes.


    In the canteen, meals were kept simple. Meat appeared on the menu only once a week.


    Yet, despite the hardships, the students persevered. Each year, one to two hundred of them managed to earn admission to respected universities, a testament to their hard work and resolve.


    Elsa was profoundly moved by the situation, prompting her to encourage Ethan to support the school.


    Ethan shared her admiration. He found the students¡¯ determination inspiring, and he was particrly impressed by Ainslie¡¯s devotion. Even before his visit, he had discussed a long-term support n with Brenna, determined to improve the school¡¯s conditions.


    Ainslie¡¯s hands trembled slightly as she read through the list of donations.


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 Chapter 1700

    ?Chapter 1700:


    Two hundredputers¡ªenough to establish four newputerbs. A total of sixty projectors andptops designated for ssroom activities.


    The school had long dreamed of such resources, but financial limitations had always stood in the way.


    Ainslie¡¯s eyes shone with joy as she looked up. ¡°Thank you so much! This is exactly what we need, Mr. Mitchell!¡±


    The list continued with twenty ping-pong tables, ten basketball hoops, ten full ser sets, fifty pairs of badminton rackets, jump ropes, shot puts, balls of every kind, and mats for physical education.


    In short, every piece of equipment required for high school PE sses had been provided.


    And that wasn¡¯t all¡ªns were also in motion to build a new sports field and a fully equipped library.


    These projects called for detailed preparation¡ªselecting construction sites, setting timelines, and nning the start date¡ªall matters that demanded thorough discussion.


    Ainslie could hardly contain her gratitude. Her voice trembled as she thanked Ethan once again for his generosity. As she read the supply list aloud, emotion filled the room. Teachers and students alike were moved to tears, their hearts swelling with gratitude.


    The teachers at Brindleton had long worked for meager pay, driven not by ie but by devotion to the girls who had no chance of leaving the vige. Their persistence had kept the school alive despite the hardships.


    ¡°For years, I wanted to put up a sports field and a library for the students, but the project had to wait because of financial limits. Now, Mr. Mitchell is going to make that happen,¡± Ainslie said with a warm smile. ¡°Everyone, let¡¯s give our thanks to Mr. Mitchell and Ms. Harper!¡±


    Thunderous apuse erupted.


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    Ethan exchanged a nce with Brenna, both silently agreeing that every effort and coin spent this time was worth it.


    Excitement spread like wildfire. No longer would the students wait weeks for a singleputer ss. Now, they could learn freely on modern machines that worked smoothly, unlike the decade-old ones that took ages to load and froze constantly.


    A new library would soon rise on the campus, a dream long deferred finally taking shape. For the vige girls who yearned to see the world beyond their smallmunity, books and the inte would now serve as their bridge to that wider world.


    Atst, they had everything they had ever hoped for. The apuse was deafening, echoing through the air until palms turned red.


    To the teachers and students, Ethan and Brenna appeared almost celestial¡ªangels who hade to bring hope and joy into their lives.


    Ainslie, still smiling through tears, continued reading from the supply list.


    Included were three thousand new desks and chairs, not yet delivered but expected to arrive within the week.


    There were also generous provisions for the canteen: ten freezers for storing food, six hundred pounds of pork, and baskets of fresh vegetables.


    Brenna also provided the students with sanitary pads and toilet paper.


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 Chapter 1701

    ?Chapter 1701:


    When the brief wee ceremony ended, Ainslie asked the students to return to their sses while the delivery team began unloading boxes of supplies.


    ¡°Let me show you around the school. After the tour, you can address the students.¡± With that, Ainslie led Ethan and Brenna toward the main ssroom building, her voice filled with warmth.


    Elsa walked beside them, and she realized the list of suppliescked any mention of ssroom or dormitory repairs. She looked at Ethan and asked, ¡°Didn¡¯t I tell you to bring people to fix the ssrooms and dormitories?¡±


    Ethan replied calmly, ¡°I haven¡¯t forgotten about that, Mom. It¡¯s not a major project. I¡¯ve already sent someone into town to hire workers. They should arrive soon to start fixing things up.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good to hear. But honestly, just look at these buildings. They¡¯re falling apart. In my view, it might be wiser to invest in building an entirely new school,¡± Elsa said.


    Ainslie nced at Ethan, then at Elsa, before speaking with measured conviction. ¡°I see little need to squander resources. The teaching buildings, sturdily constructed, could endure another three decades with modest repairs. Frankly, new construction seems unnecessary.¡±


    Ethan nodded in quiet ord. ¡°Exactly. Constructing gleaming, cutting-edge facilities and opulent dormitories might invite unwanted scrutiny. Renovating the existing structures is the more prudent path.¡±


    His aim was to shield the school from the prying eyes of opportunists.


    Elsa, unaware of Ethan¡¯s deeper intentions, simply assumed her son was being stingy. Still, she held her tongue in the presence of the principal.


    As they toured the school, Ethan surveyed the ssrooms¡¯ condition. The students¡¯ desks and chairs bore the scars of heavy use, and the ckboards were outdated as well.


    The roomscked modern projection tools, their walls were dim with age, and the floors were unadorned cement. The setting was, undeniably, austere.


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    Yet, despite these hardships, the students were diligent, listening to every word from their teachers, whose fervor was infectious.


    Outside the ssroom of the top-performing senior ss, Ainslie turned to the group with warmth. ¡°This is our finest ss. The students here are exceptional. Mr. Mitchell, Ms. Harper, would you share a few words to inspire them? There is no greater spark than the wisdom of aplished figures like yourselves.¡±


    Ethan and Brenna exchanged a knowing smile, both agreeing.


    The English lesson was in full swing when Ainslie interjected, ¡°My apologies for the disruption. Allow me to introduce Mr. Ethan Mitchell, CEO of the Mitchell Group, and Ms. Brenna Harper, the CEO of Night Studio. They¡¯ve brought resources to our school today. You were in ss during the wee ceremony earlier, so you didn¡¯t see them then. Let¡¯s give them a hearty wee to share a few words.¡±


    The teacher, Selma Palmer, in her forties, radiated vitality and seasoned expertise, having guided numerous graduating sses to impressive oues.


    She said, ¡°Wee, Mr. Mitchell and Ms. Harper. We¡¯ve been eagerly awaiting your visit. The students look up to you as exemrs and are brimming with questions.¡±


    As Selma finished, a surge of spirited apuse filled the room, all eyes fixed expectantly on the two guests.


    Ethan looked at Brenna and said, ¡°You should take the floor first. At an all-girls school, your words may resonate more deeply with them.¡±


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 Chapter 1702

    ?Chapter 1702:


    ¡°Alright,¡± Brenna replied with poise, stepping to the podium. The students¡¯ eager faces stirred memories of her childhood, when shecked the privilege of a proper ssroom.


    She hadpleted high school through self-study at the Barrett family estate,ter enrolling at Norview, where she juggled work and her studies.


    ¡°Greetings, everyone. I¡¯m Brenna Harper, and I¡¯m thrilled to meet you all. Please, don¡¯t hesitate to ask any questions on your mind,¡± she said.


    The students¡¯ hands shot up with enthusiasm.


    Brenna pointed to a student in the third row with a round face. ¡°You there, please go ahead.¡±


    ¡°Good afternoon, Ms. Harper. I¡¯m Freyja Cruz. Could you share how you prepared for exams in your senior year? Any advice for us?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s smile was gentle and warm. ¡°Due to family circumstances, Ipleted my early education through self-study. In my senior year, I immersed myself in practice questions, which proved invaluable.¡±


    Freyja¡¯s eyes widened in awe. ¡°You managed to get into university through self-study? That¡¯s incredible! May I ask which university you attended? Was it Capital University, the nation¡¯s top institution?¡±


    Brenna shook her head gently. ¡°In fact, I studied at Stratford University abroad, where I earned dual master¡¯s degrees in Finance and Mechanical Engineering.¡±


    A ripple of awe swept through the ssroom. ¡°That¡¯s astounding!¡±


    ¡°Absolutely remarkable!¡±


    ¡°She is my idol!¡±


    The ssroom buzzed with whispers of admiration. Every student gazed at Brenna, captivated by her intellect and poise. She had achieved feats that felt like distant dreams to them.


    At that moment, another student shot her hand up with enthusiasm.


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    Brenna gave a warm nod, inviting her to speak.


    The student stood up. ¡°Ms. Harper, I¡¯m Jessica McCoy, the top student in our ss. May I ask what qualities yourpany looks for in new recruits? And might there be a chance for me to join yourpany after I graduate from university?¡±


    ¡°I believe it¡¯s still possible. The majority of our employees hold master¡¯s degrees from well-known universities, with sries above twenty thousand dors a month. Ourpany is looking for talent in mechanical engineering, finance, and cybersecurity,¡± Brenna said.


    The student took her seat, looking determined. She had made up her mind. One day, she would pursue a master¡¯s degree, work for Brenna¡¯spany, and earn that same sry.


    Brenna then pointed to the tall girl seated in thest row and let her speak.


    The girl stood up nervously. ¡°Hello, Miss Harper. My name is Lily Haywood. My grades aren¡¯t very good, and I probably can¡¯t get into a prestigious university. I don¡¯t think I¡¯d qualify to work at yourpany. For someone like me, what field of study would be better?¡±


    Brenna smiled kindly. It wasn¡¯t her field, but she answered with care. ¡°You might want to consider dentistry. It¡¯s a field in high demand and growing rapidly. Right now, there¡¯s a real need for skilled professionals.¡±


    ¡°Thank you so much!¡±


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 Chapter 1703

    ?Chapter 1703:


    ¡°Miss Harper, you¡¯re also a woman. In my hometown, people think girls only need a basic education and that college is pointless since we¡¯ll get married anyway. What do you think? How can we convince them otherwise?¡± someone asked.


    Brenna¡¯s expression grew serious. ¡°That¡¯s a good question. Girls are just as capable as boys. Intelligence isn¡¯t determined by gender. Mypany hires many women who earn the same sries as men, and they do work as well as men, if not better. I¡¯m a woman who built my ownpany. We manufacture intelligent prosthetics that have helped thousands of people with disabilities. Our finance department also supports major corporations in going public.¡±


    The discussion grew lively. One student after another raised their hand, and Brenna answered each question with patience and sincerity.


    In the end, she said, ¡°Keep it up, everyone. I¡¯m confident that with hard work, you¡¯ll all seed. If any of you decide to study finance or mechanical engineering, I might even consider bending the rules to hire you one day.¡±


    The students¡¯ excitement filled the room. Being the school¡¯s top-performing ss, they felt that joining Brenna¡¯spany was now within their grasp.


    When the time came for Ethan to answer their questions, a hush fell over the crowd.


    His striking appearance made some of the girls too shy to speak, and their questions carried a softer tone than before.


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell, we heard you¡¯re the richest man in the world. Could you tell us your secret to bing wealthy? And¡­ do you have any ideas for helping our hometown ovee poverty?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Mitchell, if we can¡¯t afford college tuition, what would you suggest we do?¡±


    Ethan¡¯s gaze moved over the students. Their uniforms were worn and faded, their shoes scuffed, and their sun-darkened faces reflected years of hardship. Yet, their eyes gleamed with hope.


    He could tell they were eagerly waiting for his response.


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    ¡°There are plenty of jobs out there¡ªtemporary or seasonal work. If you¡¯re willing, you can earn enough to support yourself. During school breaks, you can also work in factories to cover your tuition.¡±


    His words breathed new hope into the room.


    He then went on to give a powerful speech that left the students inspired and eager for the future ahead.


    After that, Ainslie led Brenna and Ethan on a short tour of the dormitories. The rooms were small, yet each one was kept neat and spotless.


    They noticed that the upper floors of the ssrooms and dorms would leak during heavy rain, and when they stopped by the teachers¡¯ offices, the staff weed them warmly, eager to talk.


    At lunchtime, Brenna and Ethan joined the teachers and students in the cafeteria. The food was in and far from the luxurious meals they were ustomed to, yet both enjoyed it.


    As they observed the students, they saw how deeply everyone admired Elsa.


    Ainslie watched their humble demeanor with growing fondness. Their sincerity touched her, and her respect for them deepened. She said, ¡°Miss Harper, Mr. Mitchell, I¡¯m truly grateful for the kindness and support you¡¯ve shown us. I do have an idea I¡¯d like to discuss with you¡ªif you¡¯re open to hearing it.¡±


    Ethan and Brenna exchanged a look of quiet understanding. They both held deep respect for Ainslie¡ªa woman who had devoted her entire life to giving girls in the mountains a chance at education. People like her were rare.


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 Chapter 1704

    ?Chapter 1704:


    They trusted that whatever Ainslie asked wouldn¡¯t be unreasonable. And even if it turned out to be demanding, their resources could easily manage it.


    So Ethan agreed at once, saying, ¡°Sure, Miss Campbell, go ahead.¡±


    Ainslie hesitated, her fingers tightening slightly. To her, the request felt like too much. If they agreed, they would, in a sense, carry the school¡¯s future on their shoulders for life.


    Buttely, her health had been failing, and she often woke in the night fearing the worst. If illness struck her down, there would be no one left to oversee the school. The thought of those young girls losing their chance at education weighed heavily on her heart. There was no other choice.


    After a long pause, Ainslie gathered her courage and spoke softly. ¡°Mr. Mitchell, Miss Harper, you¡¯ve both done so much already. You¡¯ve donated generously, nned to build a sports field and a library, and even funded the renovation of our ssrooms and cafeteria. I know it¡¯s asking a lot, but I¡¯d like to invite you both to serve as honorary principals of our school.¡±


    Ethan and Brenna exchanged surprised looks. They had expected a request for more funding or perhaps another project, not something like this.


    Serving as honorary principals required no real responsibility¡ªit was only a symbolic title.


    The pair paused briefly, and Ainslie mistook their silence for reluctance.


    Just as she was about to say something, both Ethan and Brenna spoke at once. ¡°We agree.¡±


    Their response warmed her heart. Still, fearing they might think she wanted more financial aid, Ainslie quickly rified, ¡°Please don¡¯t misunderstand. I only hope you can serve as honorary principals in title. You won¡¯t have to manage anything or contribute additional funds. I just want to use your names when applying for government support. It¡¯ll help the approval process move faster.¡±


    She sighed quietly before continuing. ¡°To be honest, our school desperately needs repairs. We¡¯ve been applying for funds to fix the ssrooms, dorms, and cafeteria for more than two years, but nothing hase through. With your names, I believe we¡¯ll finally get somewhere.¡±


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    Ethan nodded. ¡°You¡¯re right. The buildings and equipment are in rough shape. But there¡¯s no need to rely on government approval. When summer vacationes, I¡¯ll take care of the matter. I¡¯ll fund the repairs, and you can find people to handle the work.¡±


    ¡°That would be wonderful. On behalf of all our teachers and students, thank you.¡± Ainslie¡¯s voice trembled as she reached out to shake their hands, her eyes glistening with tears she could no longer hold back.


    For years, she had carried the weight of the school on her shoulders. She had endured indifference, rejection, and condescension from officials. Her pleas for support had always gone unheard. The school had survived only through her persistence, and now it was barely holding on.


    She had given everything to this ce.


    Ethan and Brenna didn¡¯t know every detail of Ainslie¡¯s past; they only knew that she was a woman who had once walked away from a high-paying career to build a school in the mountains¡ªa school for girls who had been forgotten by the rest of the world.


    ¡°There¡¯s really no need to thank us. We admire you deeply, Miss Campbell. People like you¡ªthose who dedicate their lives to giving girls in rural mountain areas a chance at education¡ªare truly rare. We¡¯re just doing our small part.¡±


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 Chapter 1705

    ?Chapter 1705:


    Brenna went straight to what she wanted to say. ¡°I heard that a lot of girls in the mountain viges get into universities, but their families refuse to let them go. From this year on, I¡¯ll personally cover the tuition fees for any student who gets epted. For those whose families are struggling financially, I¡¯ll find part-time work for them to make sure they canplete their studies.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Miss Harper, truly. I speak for every girl who now has the chance to go to university. You¡¯re right; the level of poverty in the mountain homes is hard to believe. Even a few thousand for tuition is a big strain on an ordinary family, and for those in worse conditions, it¡¯s impossible. They can¡¯t pay even if they sacrifice everything. The parents aren¡¯t at fault; they just have no options.¡±


    Ainslie¡¯s voice trembled as she told Ethan and Brenna about the struggles of the people here.


    Dustin and his assistant, Sergio Nash, arrived at Willowbrook¡ªthe quiet, remote vige where Debby lived.


    The ce was so secluded that seeing outsiders was rare, and their arrival immediately stirred curiosity. After parking the car near the entrance, the two men started down the narrow dirt road that cut through the center of the vige.


    Holding a loudspeaker, Dustin called out cheerfully, ¡°We¡¯re here to buy jade stones! Offering prices that will definitely satisfy you! If you¡¯ve got any jade at home, bring it out for a look!¡±


    His words echoed down the nearly empty street, but no one appeared.


    Frowning slightly, he muttered, ¡°Why are there so few people around?¡±


    He and Sergio walked from one end of the vige to the other and only came across a stooped old man carrying a wicker basket while leading a bleating goat.


    Dustin approached the old man with a polite smile. ¡°Sir, do you have any stones at home? We¡¯re buying¡ªoffering very high prices!¡±


    The old man just shook his head and pointed at his ear, signaling that he couldn¡¯t hear.


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    Dressed sharply in a tailored suit, with a jade pendant glinting against his chest and a luxury watch on his wrist, Dustin cut the figure of a wealthy businessman. His sunsses only added to the impression.


    After the old man disappeared down the road, several middle-aged men emerged from a nearby alley, each holding stones of various sizes.


    The group of men eyed Dustin and Sergio with wariness. They believed the two didn¡¯t look trustworthy. They didn¡¯t have a good impression of them, nor did they believe their own stones were worth anything.


    After all, Baylor had already appraised their stones and dered them nearly worthless¡ªbarely worth a few bucks.


    Still, curiosity and the faint glimmer of hope pushed them toward Dustin and Sergio. Maybe this time, things would be different.


    Dustin¡¯s eyes lit up when he saw the stones in their hands.


    It really did seem like everyone in this vige had something worth looking at; every household might be hiding a treasure just waiting to be discovered.


    His excitement barely contained, Dustin called to the nearest person, ¡°Hey there! Come over, let me take a look at the stones you have. I promise my offer will make you happy!¡±


    The middle-aged man stepped forward, holding out a rough, grayish stone. ¡°Where are you from?¡± he asked suspiciously.


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 Chapter 1706

    ?Chapter 1706:


    ¡°Shirie. Do you have more at home? Bring them all out; I¡¯ll take a look,¡± Dustin replied, grinning.


    The stone wasn¡¯t very big, about the size of a basketball, but it had potential. Its coarse surface was partially polished, revealing a faint, lustrous green beneath.


    Dustin sat down on a wooden bench by the roadside, turning the stone over in his hands. He tilted it toward the sunlight, then switched on a shlight to peer deeper into the texture. His pulse quickened; it looked like a very good piece of jade.


    He then passed it to Sergio for a second opinion, keeping his expression carefully neutral.


    After all, thest thing he wanted was for the man to realize the stone¡¯s true worth and consider his offer low.


    Unlike Ethan, he was here to make money.


    ¡°I¡¯ll give you twelve thousand for this one. How does that sound?¡± he asked.


    The man¡¯s eyes went wide, stunned by the number. ¡°How much? Can you repeat that?¡± he asked in disbelief.


    Dustin mistook the reaction for dissatisfaction, thinking the man might be holding out for more, so he firmly repeated, ¡°Twelve thousand. That¡¯s my final offer¡ªit¡¯s already a good price.¡±


    One of the nearby vigers with three stones nudged the man, Adair Ortega, with a smile. ¡°Take it, Adair! That¡¯s a great deal¡ªhe¡¯s not trying to trick you or anything!¡±


    Encouraged, Adair nodded. ¡°Alright, deal.¡±


    The others didn¡¯t voice it, but everyone remembered how Baylor had once examined the same stone and dismissed it as junk, refusing to pay more than ten dors.


    Back then, Adair had walked away with the stone in fury.


    He was poor, but he wasn¡¯t stupid¡ªBrindleton¡¯s soil was full of stones, and he had learned enough to tell that some had real value. This stone might not make him rich, but it was definitely worth far more than ten dors, so he had refused to sell it to Baylor.


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    Baylor hade to him again several times, asking him to sell it, but he had driven him off.


    Now, he eagerly held out another stone. ¡°Sir, take a look at this one, too! I¡¯m willing to sell this one as well.¡±


    Dustin examined it closely, and his eyes gleamed with satisfaction. Coming here had been the right move¡ªhe could already see the potential for profit in every find. ¡°This one is jadeite,¡± he said after a pause. ¡°The quality is good. I¡¯ll pay thirteen thousand for it. Do you have more?¡±


    Adair¡¯s excitement burst through. Finally, someone honest! Other buyers had treated the vigers here like fools, tossing out offers of eight or ten bucks for stones worth far more. ¡°Wait right here¡ªI¡¯ve got a big one at home!¡± he said, rushing off.


    Seeing that, the other vigers eagerly stepped forward, thrusting their stones toward Dustin for appraisal.


    Adair soon came trundling over with a cart brimming with stones, ranging from pebbles to boulders, thergest of which rose to knee height.


    Years ago, Baylor had dangled fifty bucks in front of him for that very stone, but he wouldn¡¯t budge. Baylor had kept circling back, sweetening the pot by twenty each time, yet he remained firm.


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 Chapter 1707

    ?Chapter 1707:


    That boulder was no beauty¡ªrough-edged, lopsided¡ªbut it had a gaping crack at the top, and within, a pale green glow peered out.


    The moment Dustinid eyes on it, his instincts screamed that this was valuable. Still, he masked his excitement behind a poker face.


    In a vige of fewer than a thousand souls, word traveled faster than wildfire. Soon, everyone here knew that someone was handing out big money to buy stones.


    For generations, the vigers had scraped a living collecting herbs and stones, so every home was a miniature vault of oddities.


    After a while, people lined up, eager to show Dustin their stones and see if they could sell them.


    But Dustin hadn¡¯t brought money with him; he had left it in his car. He was simply checking if there were valuable stones here. After examining over a dozen stones, he found that half were worth buying.


    ¡°Here¡¯s the deal,¡± Dustin said. ¡°The path here¡¯s too narrow for my car, and I can¡¯t lug all these stones myself. Help me get them to my car, and we¡¯ll settle the ounts there. My money¡¯s also in my car.¡±


    ¡°Of course!¡± the vigers said in unison, and they hoisted their stones and marched down the mountain beside him.


    Dustin¡¯s car sat parked at the vige entrance, still a good kilometer from the nearest home.


    Two pickup trucks idled at the base, the very reinforcements Dustin had arranged for hauling his newfound fortune.


    After getting to his car, he started with Adair¡¯s haul: thirty stones in all. After a careful eye, he cherry-picked half. The crown jewel¡ªthe hulking stone Baylor had once coveted¡ªearned Adair a jaw-dropping offer of a hundred and thirty thousand dors. The rest stacked up to one hundred and fifty thousand.


    The money counter whirred like a hive of bees, the notes clicking through one by one as the vigers stared, wide-eyed. This stranger wasn¡¯t bluffing; he had pockets deeper than they¡¯d ever imagined.


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    Adair thumbed through the cash after receiving it, grinning from ear to ear.


    Vigers teased him withughter. ¡°So much money, Adair! You¡¯ll never finish counting! Looks like your daughter¡¯s schooling is paid for, and your son¡¯s wedding will be a feast!¡±


    Adair chuckled. ¡°Yes, I suppose I¡¯m a lucky man today. But Baylor had the nerve to say our stones were worth so little before. Luckily, I didn¡¯t sell the stones to him back then!¡±


    One grey-haired man muttered, ¡°Baylor¡¯s a swindler. He robbed me blind¡ªI sold him over a dozen stones for nearly nothing. Next time I see him, I¡¯ll give him a piece of my mind!¡±


    Murmurs rippled through the crowd¡ªseveral wanted to teach Baylor a lesson when they saw him again.


    Meanwhile, Dustin sifted through the vigers¡¯ stones, selecting only the cream of the crop. He paid fairly, yet wisely, making sure every coin spent promised returns.


    The vigers didn¡¯t mind. On the contrary, they beamed, urging him to return soon, and that next time, they¡¯d have even greater treasures for him.


    By sundown, the twenty million in cash Dustin had brought had all been spent.


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 Chapter 1708

    ?Chapter 1708:


    The two pickups sat stacked high, stones piled to the brim.


    In the evening, he rolled back into Brindleton Girls¡¯ School, grinning like a man who¡¯d struck gold. On the sports field, he and Sergio began loading the stones onto a waiting helicopter.


    When Ethan and Brenna caught wind of it, they swung by to check out his loot.


    ¡°Not bad!¡± Brenna eximed. ¡°You¡¯ve gathered quite a stash.¡±


    Dustinughed, his voice booming with joy. ¡°I¡¯ve hit the jackpot! Dinner¡¯s on me tonight!¡± He then said to Ethan, ¡°Could you help me send this back to the city?¡±


    ¡°You just want to ship these off before anyone elseys a hand on them,¡± Ethan said knowingly, already dialing his pilot.


    Dustin¡¯s eyes gleamed as he surveyed the haul. ¡°Yeah. Where¡¯s the pilot? Let him work overtime¡ªI¡¯ll throw in a fat tip.¡±


    Brenna bent down and picked up a fist-sized stone. At first nce, it seemed ordinary, save for a speck of green glimmering on its surface.


    ¡°This one¡¯s a beauty,¡± she said. ¡°Feels like it has promise.¡±


    Meanwhile, in Willowbrook, a woman clutched her phone. ¡°You won¡¯t believe it¡ªsomeone came here today. He paid sky-high prices for stones. The vigers flocked to him and sold him everything. Adair alone made two hundred and eighty thousand dors. This person is stealing your business. You¡¯d better get back here fast!¡±


    Just then, Jarrett and Aikin returned with the geological survey team. Since the school had limited dormitories and all the survey members were men, it wasn¡¯t suitable for them to stay in the girls¡¯ quarters. They hade prepared with tents, which they pitched on the yground, nning to spend the night camping out.


    Brenna, however, was arranged to stay in Elsa¡¯s dorm room. Brenna wasn¡¯t exactlyfortable staying in the same room as Elsa.


    She turned to Ethan and said quietly, ¡°I¡¯d rather stay in a tent, too. I¡¯m not that close to your mom, and sharing a room with her would feel awkward.¡±


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    Ethan¡¯s gaze drifted toward Elsa, who stood a short distance away. Her expression was tight and cold, showing that she felt the same way.


    Seeing that neither woman seemed eager to share a room, Ethan made a quick decision. ¡°In that case, you can stay in my tent. There¡¯s plenty of room anyway,¡± he said to Brenna.


    He then walked over to Elsa. ¡°Mom, Brenna will sleep in the tent with me tonight. It¡¯s gettingte, so you should rest. Tomorrow morning, I¡¯ll go with Professor Schmidt for the field survey, so don¡¯t wait up for me.¡±


    Elsa gave him a calm look. Still, her gaze lingered on Brenna. ¡°Do as you wish. I won¡¯t interfere.¡±


    Though she didn¡¯t exactly like the idea of her son sharing a tent with Brenna, her view of Brenna had improved. Brenna had shown genuine kindness to the local girls in the mountains and had followed her son to this difficult ce.


    And earlier, after dinner, Ainslie had told her about Brenna¡¯s intention to sponsor students who got into college. Elsa started to think that Brenna was actually a pretty good person. For the first time, she believed that having Brenna as her daughter-inw might not be a bad idea.


    Brenna, unlike many others, didn¡¯t look down on the poor. She carried herself with grace and understanding that Elsa respected. Besides, Elsa had made things difficult for her before, yet she hadn¡¯t retaliated. Elsa decided not to target her again.


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 Chapter 1709

    ?Chapter 1709:


    As Brenna and Ethan made their way toward the field, groups of female students passed by on their way back to their dorms. Each one greeted them cheerfully, their faces lit with admiration.


    Over at the sports field, the survey team had gathered in a circle. They sat cross-legged on the grass, listening as Jarrett recounted the day¡¯s progress.


    Then he said to Ethan, ¡°We covered quite a few hills today. Thanks to the helicopter you provided, Mr. Mitchell, we saved a lot of time. Still, we haven¡¯t found any usable jade mines yet. Brindleton has too many hills¡ªit might take us another half month to finish the survey. If you¡¯ve got other matters to attend to, you can head back. We¡¯ll send the results once we¡¯re done.¡±


    He seemed to enjoy his work. Retirement had left him with idle days spent fishing and walking his dog, so this assignment brought a refreshing sense of purpose back into his life.


    When Jarrett finished speaking, Aikin stepped forward and said, ¡°Mr. Mitchell, we also ran into another survey team today. They¡¯re from Timelong Surveying Company.¡±


    Ethan didn¡¯t look surprised. He had expectedpetition. News of potential jade mines would never stay secret for long. ¡°Do you know who their boss is?¡±


    Aikin nodded. ¡°Denis and a woman by his side. From the way they acted, they seemed more than business partners.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s expression sharpened slightly. ¡°So, the Wagner family has taken an interest in this, too. That¡¯s fine. Brindleton has countless hills. In the end, it¡¯s just a matter of who strikes the right vein first.¡±


    Jarrett gave a reassuring nod. ¡°Exactly. Don¡¯t worry, Mr. Mitchell. We¡¯ll find it before they do. Some vigers mentioned possible jade deposits about fifty miles southeast of here. The ce is still untouched, though the terrain is rough.¡±


    ¡°If the roads are bad, we won¡¯t bother with the car,¡± said Ethan. ¡°We¡¯ll take the helicopter. Jarrett, if there¡¯s anything you or your team need, just tell me. I will help as much as I can.¡±


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    Ethan¡¯s tone was courteous, his respect clear.


    Jarrett smiled, clearly pleased. He appreciated Ethan¡¯s respectful demeanor. Despite his wealth and power, the young CEO carried himself with sincerity and warmth.


    ¡°Of course. By the way, your friend, the one looking to buy jade, should check out Mosswood. That¡¯s the vige where we had lunch today. Quite a few families there keep stones at home. Your friend might find something valuable there.¡±


    Dustin eagerly presented the stones he¡¯d gathered to his father, who examined them with great interest. Impressed by their quality, he praised his son warmly and urged him to continue collecting the next day.


    He even set aside the funds Dustin would need for it.


    When Dustin¡¯s father had thergest stone split open, the brilliance inside left them both speechless. The jade was of top-tier quality¡ªjust that single piece could fetch hundreds of millions.


    His father¡¯sughter echoed through the air, filled with pride and excitement.


    In the world of antiques and jade trading, profit was unpredictable. Years could pass without a sale, but one good find could secure a family¡¯s future for decades.


    That was why, when a golden opportunity appeared, no one in the industry hesitated to chase it.


    That night, Dustin took thirty million in cash and flew back to Brindleton Girls¡¯ School in a private helicopter.


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 Chapter 1710

    Chapter 1710:


    By dawn, following Jarrett¡¯s advice, he made his way toward Mosswood.


    Ethan and Brenna joined Jarrett and the others aboard a helicopter bound for the mountain ridges that local vigers had spoken about.


    Once there, Ethan began a detailed field inspection. If the rumors of jade deposits were true, roads would need to be built here first, though the task didn¡¯t concern him much.


    Days passed as they continued their survey. They hadn¡¯t encountered Denis and Gracie¡¯s people again.


    Eventually, Ethan left Jarrett in charge of the site and returned to Shirie with Brenna.


    In what felt like no time at all, a month had slipped away, and summer vacation began. Elsa also returned to Shirie.


    One afternoon, when Brenna came home from work, she froze at the sight before her. Elsa was sittingfortably in the living room, chatting with her parents.


    Brenna hesitated, surprised by the unexpected visit. Elsa had never been one to take the initiative to visit her and her family. Could Elsa havee to tell them that she firmly disapproved of her marriage to Ethan?


    The wedding had already been postponed, and Brenna had chosen to dy it for a few more years. Perhaps Elsa hade to insist that they call it off altogether.


    Yet, seeing her parents in good spirits, Brenna decided to be courteous and said, ¡°Hello, Mrs. Mitchell. What brings you here?¡±


    To her astonishment, Elsa¡¯s expression was warm as she spoke. ¡°I came to talk to your parents about the wedding. I¡¯m no longer against you being together with Ethan. You can n the ceremony however you wish. I won¡¯t stand in the way.¡±


    Brenna blinked, caught off guard by Elsa¡¯s sudden change of attitude. ¡°Why the change of heart? You used to dislike me.¡±


    ¡°That was before I really got to know you. You have a good heart, and I see that now. I truly support your marriage.¡±


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    For someone as proud as Elsa, saying those words was already a hugepromise.


    Brenna, though unconvinced, replied calmly, ¡°Alright, I understand.¡±


    Deep down, she believed that Elsa might change her stance again, so she decided to set aside any thoughts of the wedding for now.


    Withposed politeness, she said, ¡°I¡¯ll go upstairs and let you finish your conversation.¡±


    Giselle, watching closely, could read the hesitation behind her daughter¡¯s calm tone. Yet, knowing Elsa as well as she did, she believed the woman was sincere this time.


    Once Elsa had departed, Brenna came back downstairs, her expression soft and cheerful.


    ¡°Dad, Mom, I¡¯ve got some wonderful news. Jarrett¡¯s team struck a jade mine, and the quality is exceptional. The deposits are abundant, and Ethan has already secured the mining rights,¡± she said.


    Shepard let out a heartyugh. ¡°That¡¯s wonderful, Brenna. This project will make a fortune. You¡¯ve shown far more courage than your brother ever did. When you first decided to invest in this project, he and I were doubtful. After all, Brindleton has been mined for centuries. Who would¡¯ve thought there was still jade left there? But you¡¯ve proved us wrong.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s eyes gleamed with pride. ¡°Jarrett¡¯s expertise made a huge difference. With the advanced equipment we brought in, Ethan and I took things slow, certain the results woulde eventually.¡±


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    .

 Chapter 1711

    ?Chapter 1711:


    At that moment, Sandra appeared at the doorway, her expression dark.


    The cheerful air in the room shifted instantly.


    When she heard Brenna¡¯s good news, she became more somber.


    Shepard immediately noticed Sandra¡¯s strained expression. He exchanged worried nces with his wife and Brenna before speaking gently. ¡°Sandra, what¡¯s wrong? Did something happen?¡±


    Tears welled up in Sandra¡¯s eyes before she could answer. Her voice broke as she confessed, ¡°Dad, I¡¯ve failed. The project Jordy and I invested in copsed. We lost everything. I feel so useless.¡±


    Giselle couldn¡¯t help but feel a hint of satisfaction at Sandra¡¯s admission. She raised her head, giving her a measured nce. ¡°Forget the money you lost. Treat it as a valuable lesson. None of us expected you to make a profit anyway. Just focus on your boutiques and your clothing designs. When your father gives you an allowance, save it instead of trying your luck with business ventures. Not everyone¡¯s suited for that.¡±


    As she spoke, pride flickered in her eyes. The more she thought about it, the more confident she felt in Brenna¡¯s abilities. Though she never relied on her daughter financially, she took immense pride in what Brenna had achieved.


    Shepard shared her sentiment. ¡°She¡¯s right, Sandra. You¡¯re not built for business. Stick to your stores and let go of those risky ideas. But don¡¯t beat yourself up over the matter¡ªlosing money is part of investing. No one wins every time.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s gaze drifted toward Brenna, her chest tightening with quiet envy. Regret stung as she thought about the time she had turned down Brenna¡¯s invitation to invest in her cybersecurity project.


    ¡°Brenna always manages to seed and profit from every business she starts. Why can¡¯t I?¡± In her heart, she still refused to admit defeat.


    Shepard¡¯s tone stayed calm but firm. ¡°You and Brenna aren¡¯t the same. She started running businesses at eighteen. She¡¯s handled more projects than you can count, while you¡¯ve only tried a handful. And don¡¯t forget¡ªshe earned her master¡¯s degree at eighteen. You can¡¯tpare yourself to her.¡±


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    Sandra¡¯s shoulders slumped in defeat. ¡°You¡¯re right, Dad. I¡¯m not like her. I should just focus on my stores.¡±


    If her father gave her an allowance, she would just save it, giving up on her dreams of getting rich through investment. The life she had now was already far better than many others could dream of, after all.


    Brenna turned to Sandra with a gentle smile. ¡°If you keep working on high-end custom clothing, you¡¯ll do well. Your business is already growing, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    Sandra brightened slightly. ¡°Yes, I got two new orders this month. The profit isn¡¯t big, but I finally have steady clients. If I keep improving, maybe one day, I¡¯ll be like Ellie.¡±


    At that moment, Ernst entered the room, guiding Lilith by the arm as though she were made of porcin. The sight made Brenna roll her eyes in amusement.


    Even Lilith seemed embarrassed by his gesture. She gave Ernst a yful nudge. ¡°I¡¯m only four months pregnant, not bedridden. You don¡¯t have to do this. Look at Brenna¡ªshe¡¯sughing at us.¡±


    Unbothered by his family¡¯s nces, Ernst said in a steady voice, ¡°Forget Brenna and the others. This is our child, my treasure, and of course, I need to be very careful.¡±


    He helped Lilith sit down, finally breathing a sigh of relief.


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 Chapter 1712

    ?Chapter 1712:


    Brennaughed, shaking her head. ¡°Lilith¡¯s healthy and strong, Ernst. You¡¯re being dramatic. I understand that you want to take care of her, but if you¡¯re like this now, what will happen when she¡¯s further along? Are you nning to carry her everywhere then?¡±


    With effortless grace, Ernst sat beside his wife, handing her a fork and signaling a servant to bring water for her to wash her hands. The family burst outughing at the overly attentive scene.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with that?¡± Ernst said lightly, a faint smile on his lips. ¡°I¡¯m willing to do it. If I don¡¯t spoil my wife, who will?¡±


    A flush rose to Lilith¡¯s cheeks as she shifted in her seat. Lately, Ernst had been too concerned about her, convinced she might have an ident at any moment. She had asked him more than once to stop being so over-the-top, yet he refused to listen.


    Brenna nced at Ernst. ¡°Fine. Spoil her. I won¡¯t interfere.¡±


    From her bag, she produced apact handgun shaped for a woman¡¯s hand and extended it toward Lilith. ¡°Lilith, since you¡¯re pregnant, take this for your protection. You¡¯re carrying my parents¡¯ first grandchild, after all.¡±


    Surprise registered on Lilith¡¯s face as she took the gift with hesitant fingers and examined it closely. Brenna rarely offered her presents, and the gun was an odd gift.


    Ernst looked at the gun with interest. ¡°Is this thetest Wolf Fang 6 from the military?¡±


    A small smile touched Brenna¡¯s mouth. ¡°Yes. The military gave it to me for my protection. I requested an extra. They said that the situation here has been unstabletely and asked me to bring a bodyguard with me whenever I go.¡±


    Ernst nodded as he inspected the piece, showing his agreement. He said to Lilith, ¡°Brenna is right. Shirie has seen unrest from gang conflicts, and the police are stretched thin. Keep it with you, and I will teach you how to use it when we go back.¡±


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    Giselle, who had been quietly observing until now, finally spoke. ¡°You want Lilith to use a gun? Ernst, stop it. She¡¯s pregnant, and that¡¯s not suitable.¡±


    Ernst¡¯s expression softened immediately. ¡°You¡¯re right.¡±


    Sandra watched the exchange, a flicker of envy tightening in her chest. No matter how hard she tried, she always felt like an outsider in this family.


    Still, something inside her refused to give up. She would keep trying.


    Just then, her phone vibrated. Jordy¡¯s name shed on the screen.


    She quickly excused herself to take the call. ¡°Mr. Barton, is there something you need from me?¡±


    Her tone was courteous but distant. After her disastrous investment with him, she had already decided never to partner with him again. She believed Brenna clearly had better instincts when it came to business.


    Her very first investment venture had lost over a hundred million! All the money her father had given her was gone.


    Thankfully, her father and the rest of the Harper family hadn¡¯t med her for the failed investment. Their understanding only deepened her guilt. The money she¡¯d lost wasn¡¯t something she¡¯d earned, after all; it was a gift from them, and she had squandered it.


    Jordy, meanwhile, was far from the financial genius he imed to be. In fact, half his ventures had failed. He simply never spoke of those failures. Instead, he unted his rare victories, convincing everyone he was a master of the trade.


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 Chapter 1713

    ?Chapter 1713:


    Whenever Jordy managed to turn a profit, he made sure the whole world knew. His constant self-promotion gave everyone the impression that he was a brilliant investor. The truth was, he just knew how to polish his image.


    On the phone, Jordy¡¯s tone was unusually soft. ¡°Sandra, I¡¯d like to see you. I miss you.¡±


    Lately, he had been growing more open with his affection toward Sandra, calling her often and speaking tenderly. But Sandra remembered her mother¡¯s warning well¡ªshe deserved someone better.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Mr. Barton. I¡¯ve been really busy these days, and I don¡¯t have time to meet.¡± Sandra had refused his pursuits with grace more than once.


    Still, Jordy pretended not to notice her indifference and continued to pursue her with unwavering patience.


    He was determined, willing to do whatever it took to climb the socialdder through the Harper family. Brenna was far beyond his reach, but Sandra¡ªsweet, insecure, and eager to prove herself¡ªstill offered him an opportunity.


    ¡°Listen, Sandra. I didn¡¯t expect this investment to end up like this. I can¡¯t let you take the loss. I¡¯ll let you withdraw and return every cent to you. When would be a convenient time for us to meet and discuss this matter? It¡¯s quite a substantial amount,¡± he said.


    That made Sandra pause. The thought of recovering her losses stirred a spark of hope. After a brief hesitation, she said, ¡°Alright. How about tomorrow noon?¡±


    Her heart lifted at the idea of getting her money back. The disappointment she¡¯d been carrying for weeks seemed to dissolve in an instant.


    For a brief moment, the thought of dating Jordy surfaced in her mind. If someone better came alongter, she could always end things with him then.


    Yes, that was a practical n.


    Still, she made up her mind never to invest with Jordy again.


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    If she ever chose to invest, it would be alongside Brenna. But maybe she just wasn¡¯t meant for business; managing her money carefully might be the wiser choice.


    Sandra had learned her lesson the hard way. She promised herself to stay away from any more risky ventures from now on. One loss was enough for her already.


    When Sandra returned to the dining room, she turned to Brenna. ¡°Brenna, when will your jade mine with Mr. Mitchell begin operating? Do you think it¡¯ll be a worthwhile investment?¡±


    Brenna assumed Sandra was considering investing. She replied, ¡°It¡¯s still early. We need to apply for mining rights first and purchase the entire mountain area. The paperwork alone will take several months¡ªprobably around six.¡±


    ¡°I see. Well, congrattions,¡± Sandra said with a polite smile.


    She thought about it briefly but quickly decided against investing. She had to be more careful with her money now.


    Brenna was a little surprised that Sandra didn¡¯t say anything about investing in the project. Perhaps she was just short on funds after her recent loss.


    In the weeks that followed, Sandra kept to herself, focusing on her stores. Though she often came home looking anxious and tired, everyone had grown used to it.


    Brenna thought that as long as Sandra didn¡¯t upset her mother, she wouldn¡¯t have any issues with her.


    By noon the next day, Sandra arrived at an elegant restaurant. Jordy was already there, sitting by the window, showing no sign of impatience. His only concern was that she might note.


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 Chapter 1714

    ?Chapter 1714:


    When Sandra walked in, his face brightened. He immediately stood up, pulled out the chair across from him, and gestured for her to sit.


    Sandra had grown used to Jordy¡¯s thoughtful ways and felt entirelyfortable around him.


    In recent months, she had noticed a subtle yet satisfying change in how others treated her. Most people now greeted her with courtesy, and even the city¡¯s elite women talked to her politely.


    For the first time, she felt she truly belonged to high society¡ªperhaps not among its wealthiest, but certainly within its ranks.


    ¡°Were you waiting here for long?¡± Sandra asked, her tone gentle, tinged with apology and quiet anticipation. After all, today, Jordy was supposed to return her money for the investment.


    ¡°Not at all. I got here too early. You¡¯re right on time.¡±


    They had dined at this restaurant many times before, and Jordy knew her preferences by heart. By the time Sandra settled into her seat, waiters were already bringing out the dishes.


    Within minutes, the table was filled with Sandra¡¯s favorite foods.


    ¡°All of these are your favorites,¡± Jordy said with an indulgent smile. ¡°You¡¯ve probably had a busy morning. Let¡¯s eat first. I¡¯ll transfer the money after the meal, with an extra three percent interest.¡±


    Sandra¡¯s face lit up instantly. The added interest was no small bonus.


    Feeling cheerful, she smiled. ¡°Let¡¯s eat.¡±


    For a fleeting moment, she thought about telling him not to trouble himself over the repayment. But then, she reminded herself that her own stability came first. It was his mistake that she lost the money, after all, and he could easily afford it.


    Losing a little money wouldn¡¯t hurt him.


    Jordy watched Sandra closely, hiding the calction behind his eyes. He was certain he could win her over. Over time, he hade to understand her well¡ªshe valued money deeply and reacted strongly to financial ups and downs. When business was slow, she¡¯d sulk for hours.


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    In contrast, on sessful business days, her joy was written all over her face.


    Unlike theposed women of high society who masked their emotions behind polite smiles, Sandra wore hers openly. That openness was what drew him to her. Women like Sandra were easy to read¡ªand even easier to win.


    Brenna, on the other hand, was entirely different. Nothing seemed to rattle her. Even in the face of major events, she stayed calm and unyielding. And that made her far more difficult to deal with.


    Sandra was beginning to grow restless. In her mind, Jordy should have given her the money first, then enjoyed the meal afterward. Drawing it out like this felt maniptive, as though he expected herpany to be part of the bargain.


    Jordy was indeed doing this on purpose. Despite his efforts to win Sandra over, her attitude toward him had grown distant, as though she intended to keep him at arm¡¯s length.


    This worried him; he feared that his ns might fall through.


    To Sandra, the meal seemed to drag endlessly. Though itsted barely thirty minutes, each passing minute felt like an hour.


    Atst, when the meal ended, Jordy finally reached for his phone. Sandra¡¯s breath hitched slightly as he began the transfer.


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 Chapter 1715

    ?Chapter 1715:


    The moment the money arrived in her ount, joy washed over herpletely.


    Watching her glow with happiness, Jordy found himself smiling. He slid a small, elegant box across the table, the anticipation clear in his eyes. ¡°I got you something. I hope it makes you happy.¡±AdChoicesADVERTISING


    Sandra¡¯s face brightened as she epted the gift. She lifted the lid of the ck velvet box and gasped. Insidey a pair of pearl earrings, gleaming like morning dew. ¡°They¡¯re beautiful! Thank you so much!¡±


    She recognized at once that they were from a luxury brand, the kind that rarely reached the market, yet Jordy had managed to get them, showing how much effort he had put into the matter.


    Taking a quiet breath, Jordy gathered his courage. ¡°Sandra, will you be my girlfriend? I¡¯ve had feelings for you for a long time.¡±


    To him, his love confession¡ªbacked by the extravagant gift and the money he had given her¡ªwas very sincere.


    ¡°Alright,¡± Sandra answered after a short pause, just as she had resolved the previous night.


    ¡°You mean it?¡± Jordy was shocked by how quickly she agreed, hardly believing it was real. ¡°That¡¯s amazing, Sandra. I swear I¡¯ll treat you right. You¡¯re the only one for me.¡±


    Sandra didn¡¯t know if she had made the right decision. But she thought that if Jordy failed to meet her expectations, she could always end things with him. There was nothing to lose, after all.


    She had stopped caring about being an illegitimate daughter.


    No matter what, she remained part of the Harper family.


    Many people would trade ces with her.


    Though born out of wedlock, she lived far better than most women from wealthy families.


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    She no longer felt any sense of shame about her identity.


    Jordy, on the other hand, was overjoyed. He had finally managed to win Sandra¡¯s heart. Once their rtionship was official, he nned to get engaged to her within a few months. After that, the Harper family would ept him and begin backing his ventures.


    He could already see the bright future ahead of him.


    Yet Sandra wasn¡¯t serious about their rtionship. She thought Jordy could never measure up to Ernst, Ethan, or even Dalton and Lennon.


    He didn¡¯t measure up to her standards in any way. The instant a better man crossed her path, she would leave him behind without a second thought.


    Naturally, Jordy waspletely unaware of that.


    Before he knew it, two years had slipped past.


    During that time, Jordy often treated Sandra to extravagant meals, generous gifts, and outings. But whenever he spoke about meeting her family or proposing, she woulde up with reasons to avoid it.


    His patience had nearly reached its limit.


    It didn¡¯t help that Ethan and Brenna were already nning their wedding trip. Two long years of being with Sandra, and he still hadn¡¯t gotten engaged to her.


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 Chapter 1716

    ?Chapter 1716:


    That night, when he took Sandra home from dinner, he noticed Ethaning out of the Harper family¡¯s residence.


    Envy gnawed at him. Ethan had not only earned the Harper family¡¯s approval but had also built a thriving empire. In just two years, several of his ventures had seeded beyond expectation, expanding hispany into a global force.


    For instance, the Mitchell Group¡¯s drone line had taken over the international market. Even the jade mine Ethan had discovered two years ago had turned out to yield the finest stones, and with elite jewelry designers under his wing, his brand was selling at remarkable rates.


    Brenna, too, had built her own sess. When Jordy had once offered to fund her cybersecurity venture, she had turned him down and chosen to work with Gerardo instead. That decision had paid off¡ªher firewall system now imed nearly seventy percent of the premium market.


    The advanced mechanical prosthetics she designed had also earned her several prestigious technology awards.


    Sandra often mentioned that Brenna¡¯s room was filled with trophies and framed certificates.


    Sandra¡¯s boutiques had started improving, too¡ªthough not exactly thriving, they brought in a consistent ie.


    But Jordy? His recent investments were disasters. Almost every project ended in loss, dragging the Barton family down from a second-tier to a third, perhaps even fourth-tier standing. He could feel Sandra¡¯s growing indifference toward him.


    At the gate, Ethan spoke to Brenna in a soft voice. ¡°I¡¯lle by tomorrow morning to pick you up. We¡¯ll head out for the trip together.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s smile was light and easy. ¡°Alright. Did you manage to settle everything at work?¡±


    Ethan nodded before brushing a quick kiss against her cheek. ¡°Everything¡¯s taken care of. I made sure nothing would get in the way of our time together.¡±


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    Seeing their closeness made envy rise in Sandra¡¯s chest. If Jordy had even a fraction of Ethan¡¯s ability, she would have gotten engaged to him long ago.


    But he didn¡¯t. After one disastrous investment after another, most of Jordy¡¯s wealth had already vanished.


    Watching the scene, Jordy felt a sharp sting of regret. Why had he ended things with Brenna back when she was cast out of the Barrett family?


    If he¡¯d stayed by her side back then, would he have be a member of the Harper family now?


    But remorse couldn¡¯t turn back time. The chance was gone, and nothing could change that.


    ¡°Get some rest tonight,¡± Ethan said to Brenna. He then looked over at Jordy, gave a short nod, and left in his car.


    Jordy walked over to Brenna. ¡°Congrattions in advance on your wedding.¡±


    Brenna remained aloof toward him. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    She turned to head inside, unwilling to continue the exchange. They had once been together, and she knew perfectly well what sort of man he was. To her, Jordy¡¯s interest in Sandra had nothing to do with love and everything to do with the Harper family¡¯s status.


    A weekter, Ethan and Brenna returned, sun-kissed and rxed from their vacation, and made a beeline for Emmett¡¯s home.


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 Chapter 1717

    ?Chapter 1717:


    Ethan had originally intended to surprise his mother by visiting her first, but Elsa had chosen to stay at Brindleton Girls¡¯ School for the summer, offering free piano lessons to bright-eyed students who loved music.


    Over the past two years, Elsa had chosen to stay in Brindleton, seldom returning home or showing much interest in Ethan and Brenna¡¯s wedding ns. She waspletely absorbed in a career that fulfilled her. When Kenny visited her, he had been stunned by how tough the conditions were there and asked her toe home. But she had refused.


    She told him she loved her life there¡ªno scheming, no drama, and everyone treated her with respect. It gave her a sense of pride she hadn¡¯t felt in years.


    Kenny went back a few more times, hoping to change her mind, but eventually, he stopped trying. Now, he just sent food and supplies to her every so often, quietly making sure she was okay.


    When Ethan and Brenna arrived at Emmett¡¯s home, they found him and his wife grinning from ear to ear, an ultrasound report on the table before them. Both looked over the moon.


    Ever since her miscarriage, Shari had never been able to move past it. For thest two years, she had been desperate to try again, talking about it constantly with Emmett.


    After months of medication and six grueling months of IVF treatment, her persistence had finally paid off¡ªshe was pregnant again.


    This time, the fetuses looked strong and healthy, not as fragile as before.


    ¡°Emmett, can you believe it? I¡¯m finally going to have my own babies!¡± Shari eximed as Ethan and Brenna stepped inside.


    The couple exchanged a nce, both a bit stunned.


    Ethan, in particr, struggled to ept this. His father¡ªsixty, retired, and preparing for grandchildren¡ªwas about to have more children of his own. It felt odd.


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    Still, Ethan swallowed his difort and forced a polite smile. ¡°Congrattions, Dad. And congrats to you, too, Shari,¡± he said.


    Shari was fifty. Women having children at her age weren¡¯t unheard of, just umon.


    It struck her as unusual, too, but the happiness far outweighed any hesitation.


    When she saw that Ethan and Brenna weren¡¯t judging her, her tension melted away. Their polite smiles reassured herpletely.


    ¡°Come, sit down! You must be exhausted from the trip,¡± she said warmly, ushering them to the sofa.


    As soon as they were seated, she handed the ultrasound report to Brenna, her eyes gleaming. ¡°Look, I¡¯m really about to have my own kids!¡±


    Her voice trembled with emotion. ¡°I got marriedte, already in my forties. I¡¯ve always dreamed of having children, and now, finally, it¡¯s happening. What do you think, Brenna?¡±


    The question was more loaded than it seemed; Shari was testing Brenna. If Brenna was supportive, she would treat her better from now on. If not, she would shut her out, the way she treated Rosanna.


    Rosanna had visited a month ago and reacted with disgust, calling the pregnancy ridiculous and even suggesting that Shari terminate it.


    Brenna looked at the report. Twins, eight weeks, viable pregnancy.


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 Chapter 1718

    ?Chapter 1718:


    ¡°Congrattions on the twins,¡± she said sincerely. ¡°This is really wonderful news.¡± She understood¡ªwanting children was a deeply personal dream, and there was nothing wrong with chasing it, no matter the age.


    Shari beamed and sped Brenna¡¯s hand. ¡°You¡¯re so kind! Unlike Rosanna. She said awful things to me, told me I was too old and should terminate the pregnancy. But what¡¯s wrong with wanting my own children, right?¡±


    Then her gaze drifted to Brenna¡¯s stomach. ¡°What about you two? nning to have children soon?¡±


    Brenna smiled faintly and shook her head. ¡°Maybe in a couple of years.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s wise,¡± Shari said, nodding. ¡°You¡¯re still young¡ªplenty of time ahead. Anyway, what would you like for the meal? My appetite¡¯s been all over the cetely, so I was thinking something light and simple. Hope that¡¯s all right with you.¡±


    It was obvious to Brenna that Shari liked having everything revolve around her. Still, she kept her tone gentle. ¡°Of course, I¡¯m fine with whatever you prefer.¡±


    Meanwhile, Emmett and Ethan were deep in conversation nearby. Brenna heard Emmett ask, ¡°By the way, what¡¯s your brother up to these days? Why hasn¡¯t he visited me recently?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve got no idea.¡± Ethan had barely been keeping up with the worldtely¡ªbusy with wedding ns and the honeymoon. On the trip, he¡¯d tuned everything out, living in his own little bubble with Brenna. Nothing else had mattered to him.


    As for Kenny, well, he was an adult. Ethan figured his brother could manage his own life. No reason to meddle.


    ¡°Did something happen between you two?¡± Ethan asked Emmett. ¡°Kenny has always been a devoted son. Why hasn¡¯t he visited you for over a month? My mother says he still drops by her ce whenever he can. He lives right around the corner from you. How can he note by your ce?¡±


    He had realized that something had definitely gone sour between his father and his brother.


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    Emmett¡¯s tone hardened. ¡°He and his wife are against Shari having a baby. They¡¯ve been sulking ever since we told them the news.¡±


    Ethan just shrugged, saying nothing. He didn¡¯t exactly like the idea, either¡ªhaving a child at their age wasn¡¯t the most practical move¡ªbut if it made his father and Shari happy, and they could afford it, who was he to judge? He could let them do what they wanted.


    Seeing that his son had no reaction, Emmett narrowed his eyes. ¡°Are you against it, too?¡±


    Ethan met his father¡¯s stare. ¡°That¡¯s your business, Dad, not mine. I won¡¯t meddle. So what if I end up with two new siblings? It¡¯s not like money¡¯s a problem for our family.¡±


    Emmett¡¯s shoulders eased a little at that. ¡°Good. That¡¯s how it should be. If you get a chance, talk to your brother. Tell him to stop worrying about us. Shari and I are the ones making this decision, and we don¡¯t need his approval. Just because we¡¯re older doesn¡¯t mean we can¡¯t have kids. Even if he disagrees, we will still have children.¡±


    Ethan gave a vague nod. He had no intention of lecturing Kenny.


    Everyone was entitled to their own opinions; forcing agreement never solved anything.


    Emmett exhaled, changing the subject. ¡°So, how was your vacation?¡±


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 Chapter 1719

    ?Chapter 1719:


    At that, Ethan¡¯s expression softened, a hint of warmth flickering across his face. ¡°It was perfect. Brenna¡¯s incredible.¡±


    Emmett was pleased to see his son happy. ¡°I like Brenna. In just two years, she¡¯s designed a handful of cutting-edge weapons. The military practically worships her. She¡¯s brilliant and has a good temper¡ªnot controlling like your mother¡ªand she¡¯s got a solid family background. The two of you should hold onto what you¡¯ve got. Don¡¯t end up like your brother. He¡ª¡±


    Right on cue, Kenny and Rosanna walked in, fingers entwined,ughter dancing between them. They looked every bit the picture of happiness.


    They greeted Emmett and Shari warmly before turning to Ethan and Brenna.


    ¡°Wee back!¡± Rosanna said brightly, settling beside Brenna. Her gaze flicked to the ultrasound report on the table. She picked it up, skimmed it, and put it down with a sneer.


    Shari¡¯s face frosted over. ¡°Take a seat.¡±


    Rosanna didn¡¯t flinch. Shari¡¯s cold tone barely scratched herposure. After all, Shari wasn¡¯t Kenny¡¯s mother. As long as she showed Shari proper manners, that was enough. Besides, getting pregnant again at her age? That was absurd.


    Kenny, cheerful and oblivious to the tension in the air, announced, ¡°Dad, Shari¡ªwe¡¯ve got good news, too. Rosanna¡¯s three months pregnant.¡±


    The room fell into a stunned hush. Emmett and Shari froze. The irony hit instantly¡ªmother-inw and daughter-inw, both expecting at the same time.


    Emmett soon forced a strained smile. ¡°That¡¯s¡­ wonderful news. You both take care, alright? Looks like our family¡¯s about to get a little bigger.¡±


    Brenna¡¯s gaze flicked to Shari, whose face was tight. No matter how she tried, she couldn¡¯t look genuinely happy. Perhaps she found the situation awkward, too.


    ¡°Congrattions, Rosanna!¡± Brenna said warmly, and she meant it. Rosanna¡¯s first child had died in an ident, leaving a scar that had never truly faded. For two long years, she and her family had lived in the shadow of that grief. Now, her pregnancy felt like a long-lost light returning to her life¡ªas if her first child had found its way back to her.


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    Lunch was quite simple¡ªnovish spread, just the family chef¡¯s careful touch turning every dish intofort. The light meal suited Rosanna¡¯s appetite perfectly.


    As they ate, Emmett turned to Kenny. ¡°You and Rosanna shoulde by more often.¡±


    Kenny gave a tight smile, though reluctance prickled beneath it. If it weren¡¯t for his brother¡¯s visit today, he wouldn¡¯t have shown up at all. His father¡¯s recent choices had been too absurd to stomach.


    ¡°Okay.¡± Kenny gave a curt nod. It was pure pretense; he was already vowing internally to avoid this ce unless it was necessary.


    As soon as lunch was over, Kenny and Rosanna made their excuses and left, clearly uninterested in chatting with Emmett and Shari.


    Ethan and Brenna lingered until around four in the afternoon before finally saying their goodbyes.


    The moment the front door clicked shut behind them, Shari¡¯s expression darkened. She turned to Emmett, her frown deep, and vented the frustration she¡¯d been holding in. ¡°Did you see the way your Kenny and his wife were looking at me? What was that supposed to mean? What¡¯s the big deal about me being pregnant? I¡¯m just fifty, not a fossil! If I can still conceive, that¡¯s my blessing! Why can¡¯t I have children of my own? And after all these years of marriage, neither of your sons has ever called me Mom. I¡¯ve been treating them well, yet this is how they repay me?¡±


    Emmett gently guided her to sit down, his tone soft and patient. ¡°Don¡¯t let it get to you, honey. We¡¯re not depending on them for anything. As long as we¡¯re happy, that¡¯s all that matters. My pension is rock solid, and so is yours. I have plenty of property and savings. We can definitely afford to have twins. Even if my sonspletely ignore us, we can still live a happy life.¡±


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 Chapter 1720

    ?Chapter 1720:


    Shari let out a long breath and nodded slowly. ¡°At least you¡¯re good to me. Emmett, don¡¯t you think this house is too small, though? Once the babies arrive, there won¡¯t be enough space.¡±


    Their house was a small three-story residence provided by the military, which wasrge enough for most people.


    Emmett blinked in confusion. ¡°Isn¡¯t this house fine? It has three floors. Even if we had two more kids and a couple of servants, we¡¯d still have enough space. Don¡¯t overthink it. Let¡¯s just live peacefully here.¡±


    But Shari wasn¡¯t having it. ¡°Your second son is filthy rich. He can easily give us a bigger house. This ce is too old. I don¡¯t like it.¡±


    Emmett considered it for a moment before nodding. ¡°Alright. Next time I see Ethan, I¡¯ll ask if he has a nicer property under his name. We¡¯ll have him give it to us. How does that sound?¡±


    Shari¡¯s mood lifted once Emmett agreed to her request, and she finally smiled. The house they had now was nice, but far too small and outdated for her liking.


    ¡°Good. Do it soon. I want to move to a new house before the twins are born. Our kids deserve to be born in a big house. Their brother is the richest man in the world. How can they grow up in a cramped ce like this?¡± she said.


    Emmett nodded again, taking her words as perfectly reasonable.


    Ethan and Brenna¡¯s house was located in the same prestigious neighborhood as the Harper family. They headed straight to the Harper family¡¯s residence after leaving Emmett¡¯s ce.


    Originally, Giselle and Shepard had dreamed of traveling the world after retirement. But when Lilith became pregnant, they decided to stay home and help with the baby.


    For the past two years, they had been raising little Kalel Harper themselves. Although there were servants at home, the old couple preferred to care for their grandson on their own.


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    Now, at a year and a half old, Kalel was a bundle of energy, wobbling on unsteady legs in the living room.


    ¡°Well, hello there!¡± Brenna scooped him up, nting a kiss on his chubby cheek. ¡°Kalel, can you say ¡®auntie¡¯?¡±


    Kalel blinked his big, round eyes and said, ¡°Auntie!¡±


    Ethan pulled out a toy gun from a foreign brand. ¡°Say ¡®uncle.''¡±


    Kalel¡¯s eyes widened with joy. ¡°Uncle!¡±


    Ethan chuckled and handed him the toy.


    Shepard and Giselle emerged from the kitchen at that moment, their faces brightening at the sight of Ethan and Brenna. ¡°We heard you were back! We told the chef to prepare all your favorite dishes. Brenna, let¡¯s chat over here,¡± Giselle said.


    Brenna set Kalel down and followed Giselle into the living room, not expecting to find other guests seated there. It was Jalen and his family.


    ¡°Brenna! I heard you just got back from your wedding trip. Wee back!¡± Jalen greeted Brenna with a smile.


    Brenna¡¯s expression stiffened for a split second. ¡°What brings you here?¡±


    Jalen exined, ¡°There¡¯s a change in district leadership this year. I¡¯ve been working at the district office for a long time, and now, I¡¯m up for promotion to district chief. I was hoping your father might lend me a hand.¡±


    The moment those words left his mouth, everything clicked for Brenna.


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 Chapter 1721

    ?Chapter 1721:


    Jalen had been visiting the Harper family far more frequently these past two years, bringing his kids along and acting friendly. He had never outright asked for anything before, and Giselle, believing the younger generation shouldn¡¯t be burdened by past grudges, had allowed the visits. Even Conor came by asionally with his children.


    ¡°Have a seat,¡± Jalen said to Brenna.


    Brenna deliberately steered clear of Jalen¡¯s affairs. After thoroughly researching him, she¡¯d discovered his true nature¡ªa self-serving, maniptive opportunist who prioritized personal gain above all else.


    Her mother shared this perception, though she still permitted the Bentley brothers asional visits to their home. Still, she refused to offer Jalen any substantial aid beyond asional handouts.


    From time to time, Brenna¡¯s discarded garments, footwear, or no-longer-fashionable handbags found their way to the daughters of Jalen and Conor as simple gifts.


    Direct financial support, however, remained off-limits.


    Giselle fully understood that Jalen¡¯s persistent appearances stemmed from calcted motives rather than genuine kinship.


    Meanwhile, Brenna recognized Conor¡¯s upright character. She believed he was straightforward and principled, untainted by the greed typical of certainwyers. This prompted her to asionally connect him with potential business deals. Thanks to these efforts, Conor¡¯s circumstances had steadily improved over the years, enabling him to clear all outstanding debts within six months. His family lived far better than Jalen¡¯s.


    Giselle frequently attributed this disparity to divine justice.


    Jalen engaged Ethan in animated conversation, having encountered him multiple times before and knowing his identity. Every time, he¡¯d try to get closer to him, talking with him to build a connection.


    In Jalen¡¯s estimation, even the casual money Ethan made could secure lifelong wealth for an ordinary person like him. After two fruitless years of courting the Harpers¡¯ goodwill without reward, he now shifted his ambitions toward cultivating a bond with Ethan.


    Maybe Ethan was more approachable than the Harpers.


    Cradling young Kalel in his arms, Ethan offered only distracted nods as Jalen talked to him.


    Inside the cozy living room, Brenna conversed leisurely with Giselle while Jalen¡¯s daughter, N Bentley, lingered hesitantly in the doorway, casting nces in their direction.


    Giselle harbored no particr animosity toward the children. She viewed Jalen¡¯s children as innocent despite their father¡¯s irredeemable ws, and beckoned N to join them with a warm gesture.


    N, a polite and reserved young woman pursuing her junior year at university, had diligently researched the operational domains of the Harper Group alongside Brenna¡¯s enterprise. Inspired by this, she had selected mechanical engineering as her field of study with aspirations of eventual employment in Brenna¡¯spany.


    She had observed her father¡¯s prolonged yet unsessful endeavors to gain the Harpers¡¯ favor, realizing their apparent disinterest in extending assistance to him.


    Concerned that his reputation might tarnish her prospects, she resolved to gauge the situation during this visit.


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 Chapter 1722

    ?Chapter 1722:


    After pausing uncertainly at the door for an extended moment, she heard Brenna ask, ¡°N, is there something on your mind?¡±


    A faint flush colored her cheeks as she recognized this could represent her only opportunity, especially with Brenna in an elevated mood following her recent marriage. She summoned her courage and said, ¡°Aunt Brenna, I¡¯ve chosen mechanical engineering as my major and am currently in my third year. My deepest wish is to join yourpany uponpleting my degree. Could you possibly grant me that opportunity? I promise to work diligently, and my academic performance has been solid¡­¡±


    Both Giselle and Brenna looked at her, their expressions unchanged.


    Interpreting their demeanor as rejection, N felt a wave of disappointment wash over her, convinced that her father¡¯s brazen, conniving behavior had irreparably prejudiced them against her.


    On the verge of giving up, she was surprised when Brenna responded affirmatively, ¡°Sure. With summer break just starting, why not begin immediately by interning at mypany? You¡¯ll handle entry-level tasks such as photocopying materials and routine administrative duties to get a feel for the environment.¡±


    Ovee with tion, N eximed, ¡°Really? That¡¯s wonderful! Thank you so much, Auntie! I don¡¯t need a sry. I¡¯ll do anything you tell me to!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re a good girl,¡± Giselle murmured gently, nurturing a quiet optimism that this girl might evade inheriting her father¡¯s relentless pursuit of advantage.


    Brenna said in a serious tone, ¡°You can start tomorrow, though your pay will be modest¡ªperhaps a few thousand dors.¡±


    Unfazed by the amount, N beamed inwardly, knowing that for someone in her position, a two-thousand-dor monthly sry was standard. But she believed Brenna meant at least five thousand.


    Still, she would be happy with any amount; as long as she was getting paid, she was content.


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    ¡°Thank you again, Auntie! I¡¯ll give it my absolute best effort!¡± she said.


    Ethan spent his days drowning in paperwork, trying to whittle down the stack that had grown while he took time off. Most files only needed a quick nce and his signature, and he flew through a mountain of them in a single day.


    The secretary¡¯s area outside was also bustling with activity. While Ethan was still neck-deep in documents, Emmett stormed into his office without so much as a knock.


    ¡°Look at you, the big shot CEO, too important to pick up my calls,¡± Emmettined as soon as he entered. Watching Ethan hunched over his desk, not even looking up at him, only fueled his frustration.


    He had been calling Ethan again and again these past few days, asking for a new house. But Ethan never agreed.


    So he decided to march in here and demand answers face-to-face.


    He dropped onto the sofa with a heavy sigh, his bad mood written all over his face.


    ni entered quietly with a cup of coffee, cing it on the table. ¡°Here¡¯s some coffee, sir,¡± she said politely.


    Emmett barely nced at her. ¡°No, thanks. I can¡¯t afford the kind of coffee you people drink here,¡± he said sarcastically.


    ni shot Ethan a nervous look, unsure of what to do.


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 Chapter 1723

    ?Chapter 1723:


    Ethan waved, signaling her to leave.


    Setting his files aside, Ethan walked over and took the seat across from his father. ¡°Dad,ing here won¡¯t change anything. I¡¯m not giving you a new house or the money for one.¡±


    Emmett¡¯s temper red. He jabbed a finger at Ethan. ¡°I never once asked for your money when you were starting your business, not a single cent. Now, I just want a house, and you keep refusing me. Is that really how you treat your own father?¡±


    He let out a cold snort, unable to wrap his mind around Ethan¡¯s stubbornness. ¡°Don¡¯t act like you¡¯re broke. I know for a fact you own hundreds of properties all over the country! It wouldn¡¯t affect you at all to hand over one to me.¡±


    He saw no reason Ethan should refuse, especially when it cost him nothing. In a fit of anger, he swept the cup off the table, sending it crashing to the floor.


    Ethan stayed silent, letting his father vent.


    Once things quieted down, Ethan spoke, his tone calm. ¡°It¡¯s because of Mom. You can yell at me, hit me, and smash every dish in this room¡ªit won¡¯t change my answer. You already have three houses. My brother and I are settled with homes of our own, and neither of us needs anything from you. Those three ces are more than enough for you and Shari to live infort.¡±


    Emmett¡¯s frustration vanished in a sh as the truth hit him. So this was all because of Elsa.


    ¡°Then just don¡¯t tell your mother about this,¡± he said. ¡°I know your mother can¡¯t stand me, but she doesn¡¯t get to decide what I ask from my own son. So are you giving me a house or not?¡±


    Ethan answered with a steady voice, ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Oh, look at you. Suddenly, you¡¯re the perfect son, hanging on your mother¡¯s every word? You used to argue with her every other week, and now, you act like you listen to everything she says? Don¡¯t be absurd. She¡¯s never approved of you being with Brenna. Doesn¡¯t that make you hate her?¡±


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    Emmett hoped Ethan would turn against his mother. But Ethan just rxed into his seat, crossing his legs and lookingpletely calm.


    ¡°She¡¯s my mom. Why would I hate her? She¡¯s got her own life these days, and she doesn¡¯t meddle in mine anymore. There¡¯s no reason for me to be upset with her. I only have one mother. I wouldn¡¯t side with anyone else and risk hurting her.¡±


    Those words struck Emmett dumb, leaving him without a retort.


    A shadow crossed his face, and he mmed his palm on the table. ¡°So you¡¯re determined to refuse my request now?¡±


    Ethan said, ¡°The ce you¡¯ve got now is more than enough for you. Why do you suddenly want a new house? Mom has made it clear¡ªI shouldn¡¯t give you anything.¡±


    He made it sound like every bit of the me fell at his mother¡¯s feet.


    Emmett said, ¡°You never used to listen to your mother¡¯s words like this.¡±


    He knew it was pointless to argue. His son had grown up and slippedpletely out of his control.


    All Emmett could do was unleash a furious tirade at Ethan before storming out, the door shuddering under the force of his m.


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 Chapter 1724

    ?Chapter 1724:


    The entire secretary¡¯s department had been eavesdropping, every ear strained toward the muffled shouting that had rocked the CEO¡¯s office.


    In all their years here, not a single one of them had ever seen someone¡ªanyone¡ªdare to raise their voice at Ethan. When Emmett finally emerged, his face dark with anger, the space fell into stillness. No one dared to make a sound.


    ¡°ni, who was that?¡± whispered a newly hired graduate after Emmett left, her eyes wide with curiosity.


    ni leaned closer, lowering her voice. ¡°That was the CEO¡¯s father.¡±


    Emmett, meanwhile, had other things on his mind. Lately, he¡¯d been dragging Shari from one property viewing to another, fixated on luxurious homes tucked away in the city¡¯s wealthiest districts, each one with a price tag that made his head spin.


    He could afford a few million, maybe even tens of millions, but homes that soared into the hundreds of millions were out of his reach.


    Before retiring, he had held a senior military post. The prestige was high, but the pay had been meager.


    And since his son refused to give him anything, Emmett decided to turn to his daughter-inw.


    Brenna was also rich, after all.


    Emmett already knew where to find her. She worked on the fifty-eighth floor, and he¡¯d spoken to her briefly a few days ago to confirm it.


    At that moment, Brenna was demonstrating thetest smart mechanical prosthetic to N when a sharp knock sounded on the door. Lorna stepped in, her expression tight, as though she was delivering bad news.


    ¡°Mrs. Mitchell, your father-inw is here,¡± she said.


    Momentster, Emmett walked in. His expression had softened slightly; he might sh with his son, but he didn¡¯t want to argue with his daughter-inw. After all, he was here to ask her for something he wanted.


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    Brenna handed the prosthetic to N. ¡°Go over the design on your own. If anything confuses you, ask Leo.¡±


    She then turned to Lorna. ¡°Please bring some coffee and fruit.¡±


    It was Emmett¡¯s first visit to her office, and she intended to treat him with due respect.


    ¡°Emmett, what brings you here?¡± she asked with her usual calm smile.


    Emmett¡¯s gaze shifted to the prosthetic in N¡¯s hands. He gestured toward it. ¡°May I have a look?¡±


    N nodded and offered it to him with both hands before quietly slipping out of the room.


    For a moment, Emmett merely turned the device over, feigning interest while he gathered the courage to broach the subject. The craftsmanship of the device was astonishing¡ªthe joints flexible, the design meticulous.


    ¡°This is impressive work,¡± he finally said. ¡°Did you design it yourself, Brenna?¡±


    Brenna smiled faintly. ¡°Yes. It¡¯s a bionic design. Once attached to a patient¡¯s limb, it moves as naturally as a real hand or foot, giving amputees back the fluidity of motion they¡¯ve lost.¡±


    ¡°Incredible,¡± Emmett murmured, examining it more closely. ¡°This could truly change lives.¡±


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 Chapter 1725

    ?Chapter 1725:


    Brenna watched him for a moment, then gently said, ¡°Emmett, why don¡¯t you tell me what brought you here?¡±


    She could read the hesitation in his eyes. This visit wasn¡¯t about prosthetics, and she knew he just hadn¡¯t yet worked up the courage to say what he had in mind.


    ¡°Brenna, Ethan is impossible,¡± Emmett groaned, running a hand through his hair. ¡°I asked him for a house, and he t-out refused me. Said his mother wouldn¡¯t allow it. Can you believe that? Shari¡¯s getting older, and having a child at her age¡­ it¡¯s risky. All she wants is a bigger ce, but Ethan won¡¯t budge¡ªnot an inch.¡±


    Brenna caught the undertone immediately. He was counting on her to change Ethan¡¯s mind.


    ¡°I¡¯ll talk to Ethan for you,¡± she said.


    Emmett waved a hand quickly. ¡°No. A father shouldn¡¯t have to plead with his son. I won¡¯t ask him for that anymore. Brenna¡­ haven¡¯t I treated you well? Ethan bought your new house near your family, and I didn¡¯t object. I¡¯ve been reasonable, haven¡¯t I? Do you happen to have arger house tucked away somewhere? Maybe you could help me here.¡±


    It finally clicked for Brenna. Emmett actually wanted her to give him a house.


    And, as luck¡ªor fate¡ªwould have it, she did own a suitable house. Over the past few years, generous clients had gifted her two sprawling estates. She had renovated them, but she had never moved in.


    ¡°Emmett,¡± Brenna began, choosing her words carefully, ¡°technically, I shouldn¡¯t be going behind Ethan¡¯s back to do this. But¡­ you¡¯re right; you have been good to me. I have an estate where you and Shari can stay for the time being. I can¡¯t transfer ownership, but it¡¯s fully yours to use.¡±


    Though Emmett wasn¡¯t entirely satisfied, he believed Brenna was much more reasonable than his son. He gave a nod. ¡°Very well. A house worth hundreds of millions isn¡¯t something one hands over lightly, is it? Does Ethan know about the property?¡±


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    Brenna shook her head. ¡°No.¡±


    Emmett¡¯s lips curved into a small, calcting smile. ¡°That makes things much easier,¡± he murmured, already plotting his next move.


    Brenna blinked in surprise. ¡°You really agreed?¡±


    She had assumed Emmett wanted the title deed so he could formalize the transfer of ownership.


    Despite having the means to give Emmett hundreds of millions, she still chose to respect Ethan¡¯s wishes. Ethan hadtely brought up how Emmett asked him for a new house constantly.


    Emmett, with a brighter tone, exined, ¡°Give me your title deed for a few days. I¡¯ll create a fake document with Shari¡¯s name and present it as from you so she can concentrate on the baby.¡±


    Brenna quickly understood what Emmett meant. He wanted to forge a deed in Shari¡¯s name to ease her worries, knowing she likely wouldn¡¯t bother checking its validity.


    ¡°Okay. I¡¯ll have the deed delivered to you tomorrow,¡± Brenna said, sharing the house¡¯s address.


    Since the day was still young, she added, ¡°Would you like me to drive you there now? I¡¯ve got time.¡±


    Emmett felt genuinely pleased. To him, Brenna was everything a daughter-inw should be¡ªconsiderate, polite, and confident enough to manage her wealth without seeking approval. With her grace and generosity, she far outshone his elder son¡¯s wife.


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 Chapter 1726

    ?Chapter 1726:


    ¡°Great, Brenna. If you ever encounter trouble with the military,e to me. I might be retired, but I still have friends who can pull some strings,¡± he said.


    Brenna smiled warmly. ¡°Thank you, Emmett.¡±


    She instructed her bodyguard to get the car ready and quietly reminded Lorna to keep everything they discussed a secret.


    Brenna owned two houses situated in the southeastern corner of Shirie, within a wealthy neighborhood.


    The surroundings were refined and serene, with wide spaces separating one grand home from another, ensuring every resident had their share of privacy.


    As they arrived at the neighborhood, Emmett let out a delighted exmation. ¡°This is incredible! Far better than those cramped houses I¡¯ve seen before. The size alone is several times bigger. Now this is what I¡¯d call a proper mansion. Mine can¡¯t evenpare. Brenna, what¡¯s the price for one of these?¡±


    Brenna paused for a moment before shaking her head. ¡°I¡¯m not certain about the exact figure, but I¡¯ve heard that a full estate goes for around three billion.¡±


    ¡°Good heavens, I couldn¡¯t earn that much even if I worked my whole life!¡±


    The estate stretched across over thirty acres, its pristine gardens andwns weing them, while a garage stood nearby.


    The house rose seven stories high, with five levels above ground and two beneath, every corner adorned in rich, extravagant detail.


    ¡°A house like this must cost a fortune to maintain, probably hundreds of thousands a year, right?¡± remarked Emmett.


    Brenna replied calmly, ¡°It¡¯s close to two million. But leave it to me, Emmett. You and Shari don¡¯t need to worry about that; just enjoy living here.¡±


    If Emmett had to shoulder the expenses himself, living there would have been impossible. His pension barely crossed ten thousand a month, enough to cover food and daily needs, but far from sufficient to sustain a mansion of this scale.


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    ¡°That much?¡± Emmett hadn¡¯t imagined the upkeep of a house like this would be so expensive.


    ¡°It¡¯s really nothing. For me, that¡¯s just spare change,¡± Brenna said.


    Emmett nodded, quietly thinking that living in such extravagance merely to please his wife was unnecessary. He nned to remind Shariter that appearances weren¡¯t worth so much concern.


    ¡°Emmett, there¡¯s no point in letting the house sit unused. You might as well stay here.¡± Brenna guided Emmett through each floor of the house.


    Emmett¡¯s thoughts churned with uncertainty. Should he really move in? Did appearances truly hold that much weight? The house he was living in now might be smaller, but it offeredfort and familiarity.


    He didn¡¯t know which one to choose.


    ¡°Brenna, how many properties do you actually own? From what I¡¯ve heard, Ethan has hundreds¡ªprobably too many for him even to keep count.¡±


    Brenna let out a light smile. ¡°Around thirty-seven. Some I bought myself, others were gifts from clients, and a few I acquired during my travels.¡±


    She wasn¡¯t shocked by Ethan¡¯s massive collection of real estate; since he was considered the richest man alive, it was hardly surprising.


    Emmett felt an immense sense of relief after getting the house. Had it been for himself alone, he would never have made the request.


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 Chapter 1727

    ?Chapter 1727:


    He had swallowed his pride and turned to Ethan and Brenna for help simply because Shari wanted a bigger ce. For her, there was nothing he wouldn¡¯t do.


    In his heart, Shari was far better than Elsa.


    She was soft-spoken and never raised her voice at him. Every decision, big or small, she discussed with him, never acting alone. Emmett believed that meeting Shari had been a stroke of luck for him, a cosmic reward after decades of surviving life with Elsa.


    Unable to contain his excitement, Emmett snapped photo after photo of the house and sent every shot to Shari.


    ¡°This ce is incredible, Brenna. Thank you,¡± he said, beaming with joy.


    He took in the house¡¯s design, every inch radiating ss and quiet luxury. Living here would lift their social standing and, more importantly, make Shari happy.


    To Brenna, the gesture meant little. Lending her father-inw a house was no big deal. Even signing it over wouldn¡¯t have bothered her.


    As soon as Emmett returned home, Shari greeted him with an eager hug, her delight impossible to miss. ¡°I knew Ethan wouldn¡¯t turn you down if you asked in person. He¡¯s your son. How could he ever say no to you?¡± she said.


    Wanting to spare Shari the truth about Ethan¡¯s refusal, Emmett smiled and said, ¡°Brenna made it happen. She insisted. The deed will be in our hands soon. Then it¡¯ll be officially ours.¡±


    Shari kissed his cheek, and Emmett¡¯s heart brimmed with joy. He couldn¡¯t helpparing her to Elsa, thinking again that she was far better.


    ¡°Take me to see it, darling. I want to walk through our new home,¡± Shari said, eyes shining.


    Ever since their wedding, she had mentioned wanting a bigger house several times. Emmett always brushed it off, but watching her endure pregnancy, struggling with pain and exhaustion, changed everything for him.


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    At her age, putting her life on the line to have a child gave him no excuse to turn down her simple request.


    All she wanted was for their son to give her a house, and he couldn¡¯t imagine Ethan saying no.


    But Ethan refused, leaving him furious, though he kept his anger to himself so he wouldn¡¯t upset Shari while she was expecting.


    ¡°We can go see the ce right now. Brenna already set everything up, so the security will let us in,¡± Emmett said.


    Shari¡¯s eyes sparkled with excitement. ¡°How soon do you think we can move in?¡±


    Emmett gave her a reassuring smile. ¡°Whenever you like. The ce is ready for us. We could just show up with a suitcase and settle in.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s do it tomorrow!¡± Shari eximed, unable to hide her joy.


    Wasting no time, Emmett took Shari out for a first look at their new house.


    The sprawlingwn and grand entry left Shari stunned. The space was sovish that it felt like stepping into a private pce.


    ¡°Brenna¡¯s really thoughtful. We¡¯ll have to invite her over for a meal once we move in,¡± Shari said, beaming.


    Shari¡¯s smile was infectious, lifting Emmett¡¯s spirits as well.


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 Chapter 1728

    ?Chapter 1728:


    That night, Shari was too happy to sleep. She woke at dawn, instructing the housekeeper to box up their things so they could move into the new house without a hitch.


    The following weekend, Ethan, Brenna, Kenny, and Rosanna came to visit.


    Greeting Ethan and Brenna warmly, Shari ushered them into the living room herself and handed them sses of juice with a big smile.


    Kenny was calm, thinking that Shari was overreacting.


    Rosanna, though, couldn¡¯t ignore how they were left out. She noticed right away that Shari poured drinks for Ethan and Brenna, but made no move to offer any to her and Kenny.


    Her gaze grew cold as she watched Shari.


    This was just because Ethan and Brenna had money. Did having less mean she and Kenny deserved less respect?


    The servant ced a tter of glistening fruit slices on the coffee table, apanied by an assortment of freshly baked cakes and cookies.


    Shari offered a piece of dragon fruit to Brenna, her smile almost radiant. ¡°Brenna, please, help yourself. These fruits are incredibly sweet and refreshing.¡±


    Brenna, unused to such eager hospitality, hesitated for a moment before taking a small bite. She nodded slowly. ¡°It does taste good.¡±


    A quiet thrill of satisfaction fluttered through Shari. The purchase of the fruits had been worth every penny; even Brenna thought they were good.


    Rosanna sat nearby, yet Shari made no gesture toward her, merely casting a brief, almost perfunctory nce.


    Frustration tightened Rosanna¡¯s chest. The deliberate exclusion stung. She resented Shari¡¯s eager attentions toward Brenna.


    Rosanna had always found Brenna kind; their rare encounters over the past two years had been pleasant. But today, the contrast was ring. How differently Shari treated the ¡°poor¡± versus the privileged¡ªit left a bitter taste she couldn¡¯t swallow.


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    She started to dislike Brenna now.


    And it was all because of Shari¡¯s unequal attention.


    Suppressing a sharp exhale, Rosanna grabbed a slice of fruit and tore into it with almost violent hunger, as if devouring it could burn away the sting of being neglected.


    Meanwhile, across the table, Shari radiated calm warmth, her eyes soft and attentive. ¡°Brenna, I¡¯ve been meaning to invite you over for the past few days to thank you properly. Your gift was so generous; I don¡¯t know how to repay you. This house may seem modest to you, but it¡¯s incredibly precious to me. After the baby arrives, I¡¯ll make the most delicious food for you. You and Ethan shoulde by often; feel at home here.¡±


    Every word dripped with charm and ttery.


    Brenna¡¯s gaze flicked to Ethan, who sat quietly across from her, looking at her with a cool gaze. She hadn¡¯t mentioned any of this to him yet, and now, Shari hadid it all bare. She let out a quiet, soft chuckle, choosing not to exin anything.


    Still, Ethan reached out and patted her hand. ¡°It¡¯s your property. You can give it to whoever you want.¡±


    He didn¡¯t object to Brenna giving Emmett a house; his only real concern was Elsa, and whether she¡¯d try to stir up trouble. Recently, Elsa had found a career she loved and no longer had the time¡ªor energy¡ªto cause trouble for Brenna.


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 Chapter 1729

    ?Chapter 1729:


    He thought life was quite good this way.


    And yet, Brenna had handed a new house to Shari without saying anything. If Elsa ever found out about it, she would certainly get upset.


    But Brenna was his wife, and he would always support her¡ªno questions asked.


    Brenna nodded in response.


    Shari hade to like Ethan, too. Despite being Elsa¡¯s son, he supported Brenna¡¯s gift of the house, a clear gesture of goodwill that she appreciated.


    ¡°Ethan, you should eat some, too,¡± she said lightly.


    Meanwhile, Kenny and Rosanna simmered in the background, entirely ignored. Their dissatisfaction was palpable.


    Rosanna couldn¡¯t stay silent any longer. ¡°Being rich must be nice, right?¡± she said, her voice tight with envy. ¡°People respect you everywhere you go. Gifts like a house worth hundreds of millions? We¡¯d never earn that in a lifetime. If I were that rich, I¡¯d be giving cars and houses to you, too, Shari.¡±


    Shari¡¯s face tightened. She caught the thinly veiled jab. ¡°If money¡¯s tight for you, don¡¯t worry about gifts. Juste over now and then to share a meal with Emmett¡ªthat¡¯s more than enough.¡±


    Rosanna¡¯s anger red instantly. That was a clear slight against her financial status. ¡°Are you implying that I¡¯m poor?¡±


    ¡°I never said that,¡± Shari replied, unwilling to back down.


    She hadn¡¯t forgotten Rosanna¡¯s words back when she got pregnant, telling her to terminate it. Thatment had stuck, and now, she wasn¡¯t about to be nice to Rosanna.


    As the tension spiraled, Brenna subtly guided Ethan away, not wanting to get involved.


    Meanwhile, Emmett brought out a checkers set, ready for a few rounds with Ethan.


    Rosanna couldn¡¯t stand Shari, and Kenny was already fuming. The two of them didn¡¯t even bother to stay for lunch; they stormed out without a word.


    M??? ??d???? ?? g????????.????


    Watching them leave, Shari turned to Emmett in exasperation. ¡°Look at your eldest son and his wife! What kind of attitude is that? All I did was chat with Brenna for a bit, and she couldn¡¯t handle it! Brenna gave me a house; am I not allowed to thank her properly? Rosanna is just jealous!¡±


    Emmett sighed and tried to calm her down. ¡°Alright, don¡¯t work yourself up. You¡¯re pregnant now¡ªdon¡¯t let anger consume you. I¡¯ll talk to Kennyter. He¡¯s not a bad kid, just hot-tempered.¡±


    Shari snorted. ¡°I¡¯m the elder here. I won¡¯t stoop to her level.¡±


    Ethan and Brenna exchanged a quick nce, silently agreeing it was best not to get involved. Family drama wasn¡¯t something either of them wanted to wade into.


    Let Kenny and Rosanna handle their own mess.


    Once Shari had calmed down, Emmett turned back to his chessboard, grumbling as he moved a piece. ¡°Kenny is getting more unreasonable by the day. He used to be such a good boy¡ªso obedient. But ever since he joined the airline and married Rosanna, he¡¯s be impossible. Did you see that just now? He actually dared to give me attitude! They just left without a word. Unbelievable. Ethan, you should talk to him properly about this.¡±


    Ethan lifted his gaze to Emmett, his tone calm but edged with fatigue. ¡°Dad, I can¡¯t do that. I¡¯ve got enough on my te as it is. I even canceled a meeting just toe have lunch here today. Honestly, I don¡¯t have the time¡ªor the energy¡ªto get tangled up in your affairs. You and Shari should sort it out yourselves.¡±


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 Chapter 1730

    ?Chapter 1730:


    ¡°You brat,¡± Emmett muttered with a half-smile. ¡°All you think about is money. What¡¯s the point of piling up so much cash? You¡¯d be better off figuring out how to give me more grandkids.¡±


    Brenna spoke up. ¡°But isn¡¯t making money important? Without it, we couldn¡¯t have given you this house.¡±


    Emmett chuckled, ncing at Brenna. ¡°You two have already made more than enough money. Maybe it¡¯s time to focus on other things, hmm?¡±


    Ethan answered tly, ¡°Dad, you don¡¯t need to worry about us. You¡¯ve got your hands full¡ªShari is giving you twins. Just focus on raising them and enjoy your retirement. Leave us be.¡±


    ¡°Alright, alright, I was just saying,¡± Emmett said, waving it off.


    At least his younger son wasn¡¯t holding a grudge about histe-in-life babies. In Emmett¡¯s eyes, Ethan was far more level-headed than Kenny. Running apany that size had clearly given him perspective.


    Meanwhile, Kenny always wore that permanent scowl whenever they met recently.


    Just then, Shari came over and gently patted Brenna¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Come on, don¡¯t sit there watching them y chess. Let¡¯s have a little chat.¡±


    Brenna followed her to the sofa, smiling politely as Shari eased herself down, one hand on her belly.


    ¡°I had my checkup already,¡± Shari said proudly, her tone brimming with excitement. ¡°Twin girls! Emmett loves daughters, and I do, too. Just look at Ethan¡ªso handsome. I bet my girls will be just as good-looking.¡±


    Brenna smiled. ¡°Of course they will. You and Emmett are both good-looking; your daughters are bound to be beautiful.¡±


    Still, she couldn¡¯t help feeling that she and Shari had little inmon. Shari seemed eager to fill every silence, jumping from one topic to another, mostly about her pregnancy.


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    ¡°I¡¯m not young anymore. My body just isn¡¯t the same as before. The morning sickness is awful. The moment I open my eyes, I start throwing up. Sometimes, I even vomit bile. I can¡¯t keep anything down except fruit, and the smell of cooking oil¡ªugh! The minute I smell it, I start retching.¡±


    Brenna nodded politely, though inwardly, she couldn¡¯t quite rte. In truth, she felt Shari didn¡¯t need to put herself through so much. At her age, pregnancy was risky.


    Were children really that important?


    Still, Brenna replied, ¡°That sounds terrible. You¡¯ve lost weight already¡ªjust a few days, and you look thinner.¡±


    Shari sighed dramatically. ¡°I know. But I¡¯m carrying two little lives in me. Even if I can¡¯t eat, I have to force myself to do it for them. I¡¯ll go through whatever I must for my babies.¡±


    Brenna said, ¡°I actually know a doctor who¡¯s really good at treating severe morning sickness. Would you like me to rmend him to you?¡±


    Shari¡¯s eyes instantly brightened. ¡°Really? Please do! I feel miserable these days.¡±


    Brenna replied, ¡°It¡¯s Dr. Christopher Pierce. He¡¯s excellent¡ªyou¡¯ll be in good hands.¡±


    After lunch wrapped up, Ethan and Brenna said their goodbyes and left Emmett¡¯s ce. Ethan had a flight to catch¡ªbusiness in Yson called, and he wouldn¡¯t be back for a couple of days.


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 Chapter 1731

    Chapter 1731:


    Brenna was headed out as well. She had work lined up in Csa, the capital, where her biggest gship store was set to open. With everything riding on her presence, she nned to be there for several days.


    Three days ticked by before Ethan finally returned. Brenna, though, was still out of town. The house felt empty without her. He lingered in the car, watching the empty driveway, missing herpany.


    ¡°Are you nning to live in your car, or are youing inside? I made all your favorite dishes,¡± Elsa said, knocking on the car window.


    Ethan felt a headache blooming. Thest thing he wanted was for Elsa to start meddling in his affairs again. ¡°What brings you back, Mom?¡±


    Elsa¡¯s mood was bright. ¡°It¡¯s summer vacation. My students have all gone home, so I came back, of course.¡±


    She had just returned today and wanted to celebrate her son and daughter-inw¡¯s marriage, but found that Brenna wasn¡¯t home.


    She saw this as the perfect opportunity for some quality time with her son.


    ¡°You and Brenna have done a lot for Brindleton,¡± Elsa continued, her eyes shining with pride. ¡°Everyone¡¯s lives there are changing¡ªgood jobs right in their hometown, more girls from the mountain viges going to school. People are truly grateful. So many of my students sent gifts to you: homemade pickles, wild honey, all sorts of local treats. Take whatever you like and pass the rest along. I¡¯ve tried them myself, and they¡¯re delicious.¡±


    Ethan didn¡¯t have much interest in the stack of gifts. He stepped inside the house, nced at the pile on the floor, and kept walking without a word.


    Elsa didn¡¯t push the topic. She changed course, her tone gentler. ¡°Did you take care of the internships like I asked? It¡¯s so tough for kids from those rural areas to get work experience. City kids have it easy, but these girls from Brindleton told me nobody wanted them.¡±


    ¡°Everything¡¯s handled. The Mitchell Group reserves internship spots every year,¡± Ethan said without looking up. ¡°Just have them sign up, and HR will take care of the interviews.¡± His tone was purely businesslike.


    £í????£å £õ??£ä??£ô£å£ó ??£î ???£ì????£ö??£ì??.??????


    Elsa shook her head, unsatisfied. ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant at all. I wanted you to make sure those girls get in.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s face didn¡¯t change. ¡°Mom, that¡¯s not how it works. We have rules for a reason. If someone doesn¡¯t meet the requirements, I can¡¯t just let them join mypany.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s stubborn streak red. ¡°Don¡¯t give me that! You promised Ainslie you¡¯d help. Those girls can¡¯tpete with kids from the city; they¡¯re outmatched from the start. You didn¡¯t provide enough positions to begin with, and only a few were selected through the school¡¯s contract with yourpany. I don¡¯t care how, but you must take them all, unconditionally.¡±


    ¡°Mom, this isn¡¯t doing charity. I already told HR to bend the rules as much as possible. Plenty of those students got in because of that. But there¡¯s a line. I can stretch qualifications for college kids, but a lot of the students from Brindleton don¡¯t even have basic skills. They¡¯d be limited to simple office tasks¡ªmaybe pouring coffee and cleaning the space. Some struggle to read a memo. I haven¡¯t broken my word. I can help them find other jobs, just not at the Mitchell Group.¡±


    Elsa pressed her lips together, frustrated by his response. ¡°Alright, have it your way. But answer me this. Why did Kenny tell me you and Brenna handed Shari a house? Who gave you permission for that? Go get it back¡ªnow!¡±


    Ethan¡¯s eyebrows ticked up. So, Kenny had run straight to Elsa with the news. Didn¡¯t he know she would get upset about it?


    ¡°We didn¡¯t give Shari a house, Mom. We¡¯re just letting her and Dad use it for a while,¡± Ethan replied, realizing there was no point in hiding it. ¡°Why did Kenny tell you that?¡±


    ¡°If he hadn¡¯t spoken up, how long would you have kept this secret from me? Why do you always do the opposite of what I say? Siding with an outsider instead of your own mother.¡±


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    Message from Noa: Happy weekend dear readers. God loves you, and Noa wishes you all the best. (?O?=)? ?


    .

 Chapter 1732

    Chapter 1732:


    ¡°When have I ever listened to you?¡± Ethan retorted.


    Watching Elsa work herself into a frenzy again, he thought, not for the first time, that life was simpler when his mother stayed busy. Whenever she had free time, she inevitably found something to nag him about. But she was almost sixty now, not as energetic as she once had been, and he hated watching her exhaust herself over nothing.


    ¡°Do you want to drive me insane?¡± Elsa exploded. She had no issue with Ethan giving gifts to others, but the mere thought of anything going to Emmett and Shari was enough to send her over the edge. ¡°You have seventy-two hours to reim that property. Fail, and I¡¯ll cut ties with youpletely. I won¡¯t consider you my son anymore!¡±


    Ethan remained unfazed, letting her words wash over him. In every dispute, Elsa resorted to the same threat of severing their rtionship¡ªa repetitive ploy that had long since lost any weight with him. ¡°Fine by me,¡± he said, continuing his meal withplete nonchnce. He let his mind drift to the uing school term, when Elsa would resume her teaching post at Brindleton Girls¡¯ Academy and, mercifully, cease her constant interference.


    His indifference only intensified her fury. She mmed her hand on the table. ¡°Tell me right now¡ªwhere do your father and Shari live? I¡¯ll go over there myself and take back that house. How dare they ept anything from my son!¡±


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    Ethan said nothing, focusing solely on his food.


    Enraged beyond measure, Elsa snatched his fork and hurled it across the room. ¡°Will you answer me or not?¡±


    ustomed to her outbursts, Ethan rose silently from his chair. He had already finished eating. Without a word, he headed upstairs for a bath.


    Elsa followed him, but he shut the bedroom door in her face before she could reach it. She pounded on it furiously and hurled insults from the corridor, but her efforts proved futile. After lingering for an extended period with no response from inside, she finally relented and retreated downstairs, grumbling under her breath, ¡°You think I can¡¯t find out without you telling me?¡±


    She thought of Neville. He apanied Ethan constantly and would certainly know where Emmett and Shari lived.


    Back in the dining room, she sank into her chair and stared listlessly at the half-eaten dishes on the table. She dialed Neville¡¯s number and adopted a warm, cordial tone. ¡°Neville, have you eaten yet?¡±


    Neville had only just arrived home after dropping Ethan off. The moment he heard Elsa¡¯s voice, he sensed the call carried an ulterior motive. He replied politely, ¡°I¡¯ve only just got in. My mother is preparing dinner. What can I help you with?¡±


    Elsa dispensed with pleasantries immediately. ¡°Ethan recently gave his father a house. I need the exact address.¡±


    Neville was well aware of the divorce between Elsa and Emmett. And despite Elsa¡¯s public image as a beloved figure, he knew all too well how vtile she could be in private. He also knew about Emmett¡¯s new marriage. Her inquiry signaled nothing good.


    ¡°Is there something you need from Mr. Mitchell?¡± he offered carefully. ¡°I could handle it on your behalf.¡±


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 Chapter 1733

    Chapter 1733:


    ¡°No evasions,¡± Elsa snapped. ¡°Tell me the address right now, or I¡¯ll make sure my son fires you.¡±


    Neville hesitated, scrambling for an excuse, but ultimately yielded to the pressure. ¡°It¡¯s the Pearl Mansion on Baker Avenue.¡±


    Elsa ended the call, jotted down the details, and finally managed topose herself enough to finish her meal.


    ¡°Emmett,¡± she muttered, ¡°you think you can use my son¡¯s money and his house to please your new wife? Not a chance.¡±


    Troubled by the exchange, Neville immediately called Ethan. Fresh from a shower, Ethan listened to the update with a scowl. ¡°Got it,¡± he said. ¡°She was bound to find out sooner orter. Don¡¯t worry about it.¡±


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    No one understood Elsa¡¯s temperament better than Ethan. A confrontation was inevitable. Even so, he had no intention of intervening. Let her unleash her anger¡ªshe would settle down eventually.


    The following morning, Elsa drove straight to Emmett¡¯s new residence. By sheer coincidence, she spotted his car at the gate just as it was preparing to leave. The driver was at the wheel, with Emmett and Shari in the backseat, heading out for a prenatal check-up. Without a moment¡¯s hesitation, Elsa swung her vehicle across the road and blocked their path.


    Emmett¡¯s patience snapped the moment he saw who was blocking their path.


    Shari lurched forward from the sudden stop, nearly striking the seat ahead. Emmett caught her at once, his concern evident. ¡°Are you hurt? Are you all right?¡±


    Shari pressed a hand to her stomach, still shaken. ¡°I¡¯m okay, just startled. Who does something like that? Are they out of their mind?¡±


    Emmett peered through the windshield, his expression darkening. ¡°It¡¯s my ex-wife. No telling what she¡¯s after this time.¡± He ced a steady hand on Shari¡¯s arm. ¡°Stay here. I¡¯ll handle it.¡±


    Through the ss, Shari watched Elsa climb out of her car, anger radiating from every step.


    Emmett got out as well, jaw clenched. ¡°Move your car. We need to get through.¡±


    Elsa didn¡¯t even try to be civil. The mere sight of Emmett was enough to ignite her temper. ¡°Move out of my son¡¯s house first, and maybe I¡¯ll think about letting you pass.¡±


    That pushed Emmett further. ¡°Your son? He¡¯s my son, too. What¡¯s wrong with him giving me a house? And how is any of this your business?¡± He had kept Brenna¡¯s gift of the house a secret, so when Elsa imed it belonged to Ethan, he saw no reason to correct her.


    Elsa nced past him and spotted Shari in the backseat. Her mouth curved into a cold, mocking smile. ¡°Too afraid to let her face me? You think I¡¯m going to hurt her? You really do pamper that woman.¡±


    The barbnded, but Emmett was used to Elsa¡¯s sharp tongue. ¡°My personal life stopped being your concern the moment we divorced. Ethan gave me that house, and I have every right to live in it, whether you approve or not.¡±


    Elsa sneered. ¡°How do I not have a say? That is my son¡¯s house. Who gave you permission to move in without asking me? I don¡¯t approve, and if you know what¡¯s good for you, you¡¯ll be out before I lose my patience.¡±


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 Chapter 1734

    Chapter 1734:


    ¡°And just what are you going to do about it?¡± Emmett¡¯s voice rose, frustration finally getting the better of him. Only Elsa had ever been able to push him this close to the edge. Before the divorce, he had at least managed to tolerate her. Now, he could barely stand to be in the same space as her.


    His sharp tone only fed her fury. ¡°Oh, so that¡¯s how it is now? You find yourself a younger woman and suddenly can¡¯t spare me a shred of respect? Fine. What am I going to do about it? That¡¯s for me to know. What I¡¯m telling you right now is this¡ªmove out of that house!¡±


    ¡°Not a chance!¡± Emmett turned sharply toward the security guard standing nearby. ¡°Remove her from the premises.¡±


    The guard froze, caught squarely between two formidable figures. Emmett, a former high-ranking officer, was not someone to cross lightly. But neither was Elsa, a celebrated singer whose name regrly made the papers.


    ¡°Sir,¡± the guard said hesitantly, ncing between them, ¡°perhaps there¡¯s another way to resolve this.¡±


    Unable to bear the tension any longer, Shari stepped out of the car. She touched her abdomen deliberately, walked to Emmett¡¯s side, and spoke to him in a quiet,posed voice¡ªa gentle contrast to the scene unfolding around her.


    ¡°We really should get going, sweetheart. The doctor is expecting us for the prenatal exam. If we¡¯rete, we¡¯ll lose the appointment and have to wait another day.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s gaze dropped to Shari¡¯s stomach. Disbelief flickered across her face. ¡°You¡¯re pregnant again? Emmett, you really didn¡¯t waste any time.¡±


    For a long time, she had been certain that after Shari¡¯s miscarriage, another pregnancy was out of the question. She saw now just how wrong she had been.


    The cruelty behind Elsa¡¯s words pushed Emmett past his limit. He felt the sting of open ridicule, his face burning with humiliation. ¡°What does it have to do with you? Get out of here!¡± he snapped.


    Shari moved slightly closer to him and spoke in a calm, even tone. ¡°Don¡¯t be too harsh with her. Elsa did love you for many years. She only came here because she still cares. Seeing you with me¡ªit makes her jealous.¡±


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    With a sharp, contemptuous sound, Elsa spat on the ground, not the least bit concerned with how it looked.


    In her youth, Elsa had once loved Emmett. But years of relentless conflict had worn that love down to nothing. What remained now was hatred, disgust, and a bone-deep loathing she no longer tried to hide.


    His behavior this morning had turned her stomach.


    ¡°Shari, have youpletely lost your mind?¡± Elsa said. ¡°Do you really think I came here to steal your husband? He could throw himself at my feet and beg, and I still wouldn¡¯t take him back. You treat him like he¡¯s some great treasure, but in my eyes, he isn¡¯t worth a thing. I came to reim the house¡ªnot to trade nonsense with you. So hurry up and move out.¡±


    She folded her arms across her chest, making it perfectly clear she had no intention of leaving until they did.


    From behind her, a car horn red. The driver leaned out of the window and called, ¡°Could you move your car? You¡¯re blocking everyone.¡±


    Emmett seized the opening. He let out a short, derisive snort. ¡°You really do need to move your car, Elsa.¡±


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 Chapter 1735

    Chapter 1735:


    Around strangers, Elsa could still manage basic civility. She shot Emmett a venomous re, then moved her car out of thene. Both Emmett and Shari climbed back into theirs. ¡°Hurry up,¡± Emmett told the driver. ¡°Let¡¯s get out of here.¡±


    Elsa watched their car disappear and seethed.


    Even so, she refused to give up. She stayed where she was and settled in to wait for their return.


    As for following them to the hospital¡ªshe would never do that. People would mock her for trailing a man in his sixties and his pregnant wife across the city. Waiting here was the wiser choice.


    By noon, there was still no sign of Emmett or Shari. Hunger finally drove Elsa away to find something to eat. Once she had finished her meal, she returned in the afternoon and resumed her vigil.


    The hospital visit, meanwhile, had run long. Once it was over, Emmett drove Shari to her parents¡¯ ce. Back when they married, he had given one of his properties to Shari¡¯s family so they could settle in Shirie and remain close enough for regr visits. Her parents were already in their seventies and still marveled at the fact that their daughter was expecting at this stage of her life, fussing over her with extra care at every opportunity. The visit stretched well past five in the afternoon before the couple finally decided to head home.


    They were entirely unaware that Elsa¡¯s car still lingered in the neighborhood. They drove straight through the gates of the estate¡ªand Elsa followed, trailing their car all the way to the house.


    By the time Emmett stepped out, he spotted her vehicle rolling in behind them and felt his temper spike at once. ¡°What are you doing here now?¡± he snapped, thrusting a hand toward the gate. ¡°Get out. This is my home. If you refuse to leave, I¡¯ll call the police.¡±


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    Elsa held his gaze without flinching. ¡°Your home? This is my son¡¯s house. If anyone needs to leave, it¡¯s you. I¡¯m here to take it back.¡±


    Shari approached with her chin slightly lifted. ¡°Since we¡¯ve alreadye this far, I¡¯ll make it simple,¡± she said. ¡°The property is already in my name. The transfer is done. Elsa, if I were you, I would walk away now¡ªbefore someone has to drag you out.¡±


    Shock crossed Elsa¡¯s face. ¡°That¡¯s nonsense. My son can¡¯t stand you. There is no way he would ever sign a house over to you.¡±


    She prided herself on knowing Ethan well, yet doubt crept in before she could stop it. Had she misjudged him? For the first time, she genuinely wondered whether Ethan had done exactly that.


    ¡°Bring me the deed,¡± she said tly.


    Shari had someone fetch it and handed it to her. Elsa read through every line. Nothing looked out of ce. She pped the document back into Shari¡¯s hands and stormed away, furious.


    Emmett felt a wave of relief wash over him. At least Elsa hadn¡¯t realized the deed was a fake.


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 Chapter 1736

    Chapter 1736:


    When Elsa arrived home and found the living room empty, she knew Ethan was still out. She picked up her phone and called him, but the line rang without an answer. Several attemptster, he finally picked up. Her voice exploded through the line. ¡°Why would you give that house to Shari? Have youpletely lost your mind? Is she your real mother now?¡±


    Ethan was seated in a private room at dinner with Gerardo when the call came through. His reply was measured and calm. ¡°About the internships for Brindleton Girls¡¯ School¡ªI¡¯ve agreed to arrange them.¡±


    Some of the fury drained from Elsa¡¯s voice at that. ¡°Do you want to drive me mad? I don¡¯t care if you throw your own money away¡ªbut handing things over to your father and Shari feels like a p in the face to me. They don¡¯t deserve it. So tell me: when are you taking that house back?¡±


    Shari couldn¡¯t shake Elsa¡¯sment about Ethan despising her. It simply didn¡¯t add up. Every time she saw Ethan, he treated her with courtesy¡ªhe even brought expensive health supplements whenever he visited. Elsa had probably said it just to get under her skin.


    Noticing how distracted she seemed, Emmett walked over with a te of fresh fruit. ¡°What¡¯s going on in that head of yours?¡±


    Shari let the thought go. She told herself she shouldn¡¯t care so much about it. Ethan wasn¡¯t her biological child, so did it really matter whether he liked her or not? As long as they kept things civil between them, that was enough. Whenever she needed money and he handed it over without a fuss¡ªthat was all she truly cared about. Hoping he would one day treat her like a real mother? That was absurd.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing,¡± she said. ¡°The doctor says both babies are doing well. I¡¯m just trying toe up with names for them.¡±


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    ¡°No rush.¡± Emmett set the fruit on the table and stepped outside to call Ethan.


    Ethan had only just hung up with Elsa when Emmett¡¯s number appeared on his screen. These two were going to be the death of him.


    ¡°Dad, can we make this quick? I¡¯m in the middle of a meeting,¡± he said, making clear he had no patience for a long conversation.


    Emmett got straight to the point. ¡°Can you ask your mother to stop showing up at my ce?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s your problem, not mine,¡± Ethan replied without hesitation. ¡°Deal with it yourself. If it¡¯s really that unbearable, just move back to your old house.¡± He ended the call before Emmett could respond.


    He wanted no part in his parents¡¯ quarrels. They were impossible to reason with, and neither of them ever listened.


    Emmett was left staring at his phone, seething.


    Elsa, meanwhile, was no better off. She had been waiting at home for Ethan, but even by ten at night he hadn¡¯t returned. Brenna was still away on a business trip. With no one to vent to, Elsa sat alone with her anger, and the longer she sat, the worse it got.


    The next day came and went. Even as noon rolled around, Elsa remained in the house, sulking in silence. She had no appetite and skipped lunch entirely.


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 Chapter 1737

    Chapter 1737:


    When Brenna returned and found Elsa in that state, she showed no surprise¡ªEthan had already told her everything that had happened.


    ¡°What¡¯s got you in such a mood?¡± Brenna asked, settling into her chair. A maid brought food to the table at once.


    Elsa, convinced Brenna knew nothing about the matter, wasted no time. She began to vent, pouring out every bit of bitterness she had been holding back.


    Brenna listened without interrupting. When Elsa finally finished, she offered no reply.


    Elsa let out a long, dramatic sigh. ¡°I¡¯m just tired of watching Emmett take from my son¡ªusing Ethan¡¯s money, spending it all to spoil that woman. Why should I sit back and ept it? I went there to tell him to move out, and not only did he refuse, but he and Shari had the nerve to throw me out. Can you believe that?¡±


    Brenna gave a quiet nod. ¡°Eat something. At the end of the day, it¡¯s just a house.¡±


    Elsa pressed her lips together. ¡°It doesn¡¯t sit right with me. I won¡¯t let Emmett walk away with a single thing that belongs to Ethan.¡±


    Brenna let out a softugh. ¡°I understand you¡¯re upset. But you can¡¯t control what Ethan chooses to do. If you push him too hard, you¡¯ll only drive him further away.¡±


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    A flicker of desperation crossed Elsa¡¯s face. ¡°Brenna, how do I make Ethan actually listen to me? He listens to you¡ªhe always has.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t expect my help with this,¡± Brenna said without hesitation. ¡°I¡¯m not going to get in the middle of your family¡¯s disputes.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s eyes narrowed, irritation sharpening her expression. ¡°Don¡¯t forget who your real family is.¡±


    Brenna met her gaze with a calm, serious look. ¡°You are my family. So are Emmett and Shari. But the people I hold closest are Ethan, my parents, and my brothers.¡±


    Elsa sat very still for a moment, stung. Then she pushed her te away, her appetite gone entirely. ¡°So after everything, I¡¯m just an outsider to you?¡±


    Brenna¡¯s voice was gentle, her tone sincere. ¡°But maybe, with more time together, we¡¯ll grow closer.¡±


    Elsa was still unhappy, but she understood what Brenna meant. After all, she hadn¡¯t always been kind to her¡ªshe had made things difficult for her more times than she could count. And yet Brenna had let her live here without a word ofint. That alone was a kindness she hadn¡¯t earned.


    She also caught the unspoken message beneath Brenna¡¯s words: she had no wish to be dragged into the dispute with Emmett.


    ¡°Brenna,¡± Elsa said, ¡°don¡¯t you think it¡¯s too much? Ethan giving a house to Shari? Isn¡¯t he blurring the line between family and outsiders?¡±


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 Chapter 1738

    Chapter 1738:


    Brenna studied her for a moment, then replied with measured calm. ¡°Ethan gave the house to his father. What his father chooses to do with it afterward is his own decision. You are Ethan¡¯s mother, and Emmett is his father. Divorced or not, you are both his parents. No matter how close he may seem to Shari, she is still an outsider to him. Ethan knows that. You don¡¯t need to worry.¡±


    The words settled over Elsa like a quiet reassurance. She gave a small, nomittal hum. She wanted to keep griping about Emmett, but then she recalled Brenna saying they weren¡¯t close, and she thought better of it.


    Brenna, as if reading her thoughts, offered a gentle smile. ¡°If something¡¯s on your mind, just say it. Bottling it up won¡¯t help¡ªyou¡¯ll only feel worse, and it isn¡¯t good for your health.¡±


    Elsa nced at her. ¡°You¡¯re really willing to listen to my ramblings?¡±


    ¡°I am,¡± Brenna said simply.


    So Elsa began to talk. She spoke of Emmett¡¯s failures when their children were small, of the long, lonely nights she had endured raising them on her own, of his stubbornness and the arguments that never seemed to end. And then thetest wound¡ªthe way he had shielded another woman, as though their years together had never existed.


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    She kept talking. By the time she stopped, the sky had darkened to evening, and it was only Ethan¡¯s arrival that finally brought her words to a close. Through it all, Brenna had listened without interrupting, without judging. She rarely spoke, but Elsa knew she was paying attention.


    When Ethan came home, he didn¡¯t hesitate to embrace Brenna, pressing a quick kiss to her cheek right there in front of Elsa.


    Elsa cleared her throat. ¡°I¡¯ll take a walk outside.¡± She knew the two of them hadn¡¯t seen each other in days, and she wanted to give them their privacy.


    On the weekend, Elsa was up early, nning to visit Kenny and Rosanna with Brenna. She knew Rosanna was expecting and wanted to see whether she needed anything. But after years of tension between them, she had no desire to face Rosanna alone.


    Brenna, however, did not stir until noon.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been waiting all morning for you to wake up. Why did you sleep sote?¡± Elsa asked when she finally appeared.


    Living with Brenna these past few days had taught her something: Brenna never criticized, never interfered, and never passed judgment on her habits. Whether she was practicing songs, cooking, or tending the garden, Brenna simply let her be. That alone made sharing a home with her infinitely easier than it had ever been with Rosanna, whose constant disapproval had felt suffocating.


    ¡°Is something up?¡± Brenna settled at the dining table, ncing up casually as breakfast wasid out before her.


    ¡°Will youe with me to Kenny¡¯s ce? I want to look in on Rosanna,¡± Elsa said.


    ¡°You want to take care of her now that she¡¯s pregnant?¡± Brenna asked.


    Elsa shook her head, a touch defensively. ¡°No, nothing like that. She doesn¡¯t need me fussing over her, and that¡¯s not why I¡¯m going. I just want to stop by, see how she¡¯s doing, ande back. She¡¯s pregnant¡ªI can¡¯t simply ignore that as her mother-inw. I¡¯ll bring some money, a few gifts, and that¡¯s it. After everything that happened with Emmie, I swore I¡¯d never meddle in their lives again.¡± Her lips softened into a small, hopeful smile. ¡°I¡¯ll save my energy for helping you and Ethan with your baby. I really hope it¡¯s a girl. I¡¯ve always had a soft spot for little girls.¡±


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 Chapter 1739

    Chapter 1739:


    Brenna nodded. ¡°I¡¯ll have someone prepare some gifts.¡±


    Elsa waved the offer away. ¡°No need. I bought everything yesterday. All I need is for you toe with me. Don¡¯t worry about anything else.¡±


    After lunch, Brenna joined Elsa for the short drive to Kenny¡¯s residence. Gary was at the wheel, with Felix in the passenger seat, both tasked with seeing to Brenna¡¯s safety.


    Kenny and Rosanna were both at home. Rosanna was battling severe nausea that had robbed her of any appetite, despite the array of dishes spread before her. Kenny sat nearby, watching her with undisguised worry etched across his face.


    ????? ??????????e??? e??????y ???????? ???? ??a????????el?.§ão??


    The doorbell chimed, and Kenny rose to answer it, warmly ushering Elsa and Brenna inside.


    Already irritable from her difort, Rosanna felt her mood sink further at the sight of visitors. ¡°I¡¯m truly unwell and in no state to host anyone. I¡¯m sorry,¡± she said, her apology edged with barely concealed irritation.


    Elsa¡¯s expression tightened, but one nce at Rosanna¡¯s ashen face kept her from saying anything sharp. She reminded herself that she hade to check on her, not to argue.


    The servants took the presents Elsa had brought and quickly arranged refreshments¡ªsteaming coffee and tters of fresh fruit. Brenna noted that the mealid out for Rosanna consisted entirely of nd, mild options, yet even those she could not manage.


    Kenny exhaled in quiet frustration. ¡°Nothing stays down. The doctor says there isn¡¯t much to be done about it¡ªat this rate, an IV drip may be necessary just to sustain the baby¡¯s growth.¡±


    The remark stirred a memory in Brenna. She thought of Dr. Christopher Pierce, the physician she had rmended to Shari. Only days ago, Shari had called to tell her that the treatment he prescribed had restored her appetite with remarkable ease.


    ¡°You might consider consulting Dr. Christopher Pierce,¡± Brenna said. ¡°He¡¯s a friend of mine with extensive experience in cases like this. He may well be able to help.¡±


    Kenny¡¯s face brightened. ¡°Is that so? We¡¯ll go see him this afternoon.¡±


    Rosanna¡¯s difort, already heightened by the visit, reached a sudden peak. She pushed to her feet and rushed to the bathroom. The sounds of retching followed, and Kenny hurried after her at once.


    Elsa turned to Brenna and lowered her voice. ¡°Did you see that? Kenny used to follow my every word without question¡ªhe was the most obedient son. But ever since he married Rosanna, he defies me at every turn. I¡¯ve been home for several days and he hasn¡¯t bothered to visit me once. I have toe to him.¡± She shook her head, frustration simmering beneath the surface. ¡°The very thought of it infuriates me.¡±


    Brenna guided her gently toward the couch. ¡°It¡¯s all right. Marriage shifts a person¡¯s priorities¡ªKenny¡¯s wife naturallyes first now. Don¡¯t let it weigh on you. He¡¯s still your son, no matter what.¡±


    ¡°You have such a philosophical way of seeing things,¡± Elsa said. ¡°It¡¯s one of the things I truly appreciate about you.¡±


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 Chapter 1740

    Chapter 1740:


    From behind the bathroom door, the muffled sound of Kenny¡¯s voice drifted out¡ªlow, tender words offort for his wife. Elsa rolled her eyes, but said nothing more.


    A short whileter, Kenny guided Rosanna back into the room, one hand steady at her back. She looked worse than before¡ªpale, drained, and moving carefully.


    Elsa took out her phone and transferred ten million dors to Rosanna¡¯s ount. She arranged her expression into something resembling a smile. ¡°It¡¯s clear this pregnancy is taking a real toll on you. Take this as spending money¡ªuse it for premium nutritional care. And if the chef here isn¡¯t up to it, I¡¯ll arrange for a specialist who knows exactly what a mother-to-be should be eating.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Elsa,¡± Rosanna murmured softly.


    ???????? ?????? ??a??§Ös?? ????e???? ??? ??§Ñ?????????????.??????


    Despite her long-standing dislike of Elsa, guilt had been quietly gnawing at her. During their first child¡¯s brief life, she had chosen her own mother over Elsa to provide care¡ªa decision that had ended in tragedy. Had she chosen differently, perhaps that child would still be alive.


    Now, with a new pregnancy and Elsa going out of her way to set old conflicts aside, Rosanna felt a genuine flicker of gratitude¡ªespecially after the transfer.


    For a couple like her and Kenny, who lived on steady wages without any business ventures, that kind of sum represented more than a lifetime of ordinary earnings. Though Ethan had given them one hundred million upon Emmie¡¯s birth, both of them treated it strictly as the child¡¯s inheritance¡ªmoney neither of them would ever touch for personal use.


    ¡°We¡¯re family,¡± Elsa continued, her tone warmer now. ¡°Rosanna, your suffering is in to see. This afternoon, we¡¯ll go with you to see Dr. Pierce. Persistent vomiting is a danger¡ªnot just to the baby, but to your own body as well.¡±


    The care behind Elsa¡¯s words caught Rosanna off guard, and she felt herself softened by it.


    She also thought of Brenna, sitting quietly nearby. Her earlier coldness toward her had been uncalled for. Brenna was the sort of person whose quiet generosity extended to people she barely knew. It would be foolish to make an enemy of her¡ªshe might even need her help someday. And yet, despite Rosanna¡¯s best efforts to reason with herself, an inexplicable dislike persisted beneath the surface.


    Rosanna hadn¡¯t ced much faith in the doctor Brenna had rmended, but with her morning sickness turning unbearable, she was running out of options. With some reluctance, she decided to give it a try.


    When they arrived at the hospital and stepped into Christopher¡¯s consulting room, the sight that greeted them was far from encouraging. Over twenty patients were waiting outside, forming a long, winding queue.


    Brenna had other ideas. With her usualposure, she walked straight to the front, gave Christopher¡¯s desk a light tap, and shed him a smile. ¡°You look swamped,¡± she said.


    Christopher¡¯s face lit up the moment he saw her. It had been a long time since theirst meeting. ¡°Well, you know how it goes,¡± he said,ughing. ¡°Word gets around when you¡¯re good at your job. If you ever joined the hospital, the line of patients wanting you would be even longer than this.¡±


    Brennaughed softly. ¡°Perhaps. Anyway, could you take a look at my sister-inw? Her morning sickness has been quite rough.¡± Without missing a beat, she pulled a neat stack of cash from her bag and passed it to Gary.


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 Chapter 1741

    Chapter 1741:


    Gary understood immediately. Since Brenna had skipped the queue, she wanted topensate the waiting patients. He moved down the line, handing two hundred dors to each person with a quiet apology.


    No oneined after receiving the money.


    Rosanna watched the scene unfold and leaned toward Kenny with a half-smile. ¡°See? Money really does make everything easier.¡±


    Kenny nodded. ¡°It does.¡±


    Christopher asked Rosanna to sit for the examination. After a thorough check-up, he wrote out a prescription and put together a dietary n tailored specifically to her condition. Rosanna followed his instructions without protest¡ªshe was desperate enough at this point. And seeing the long queue of patients waiting to see him, she figured he had to be skilled.


    She even added Christopher on Facebook, in case she needed his advice again down the road.


    As Brenna lingered, Christopher turned to her. ¡°That special medicine is nearly gone. Didn¡¯t you nt a batch of Woodham? They should be ready soon, shouldn¡¯t they?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll check once I¡¯m back and let you know,¡± Brenna said casually.


    Overhearing the exchange, Rosanna realized that Brenna clearly had a deep knowledge of medicine herself¡ªperhaps even more so than Christopher. And yet she had chosen mechanical design. The thought struck her as oddly surprising.


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    Though skeptical at first, Rosannamitted to following Christopher¡¯s treatment n, having her chef prepare meals ording to his instructions. To her genuine surprise, she was feeling noticeably better by the very next day. Her appetite returned, her mood lifted, and she looked healthier and more radiant than she had in weeks.


    Kenny couldn¡¯t hide his amazement. ¡°I have to admit, Dr. Pierce¡¯s medication works wonders.¡±


    Rosanna nodded, a spark of her old confidence returning. ¡°Honey, I¡¯ve been thinking¡ªI might step back from flying for now. But once the baby is older, I¡¯d love to get back to it, maybe flymercial. Keep an eye out for openings at yourpany for me.¡±


    ¡°Of course,¡± Kenny said warmly. ¡°But there¡¯s no rush. We¡¯re in a good ce financially¡ªyou don¡¯t have to work to support us. And I think being there for our child matters more right now.¡±


    Rosanna smiled but shook her head. ¡°You know me. I don¡¯t want to be just a housewife. We¡¯ll see how it goes.¡±


    The months that followed passed quickly, with both Brenna and Ethan consumed by work. Brenna¡¯s team had been expanding rapidly. Over the past two years, herpany had brought on multiple rounds of new employees, and the 57th and 58th floors of the Mitchell Group building could no longer contain them. Thepany had to relocate to a new office building entirely.


    Brenna could no longer work in the same building as Ethan, though their new offices were only about an hour¡¯s drive apart.


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 Chapter 1742

    Chapter 1742:


    One afternoon, just as Brenna was wrapping up for the day, her phone buzzed. Elsa¡¯s voice came through, bright with urgency. ¡°Brenna, you and Ethan need to get to the hospital¡ªRosanna is about to give birth!¡±


    Brenna headed straight there, calling Ethan on the way. When they arrived, she immediately spotted a sleek, familiar car in the parking lot¡ªEmmett¡¯s new vehicle.


    Inside the obstetrics department, the atmosphere was thick with tension. Brenna found both Emmett and Kenny waiting outside the delivery rooms.


    Emmett was pacing, his worry impossible to conceal. Kenny, by contrast, lookedposed. This wasn¡¯t new territory for him¡ªRosanna was having her second child, and her pregnancy had gone smoothly.


    Emmett¡¯s situation was another matter entirely. Shari had developed pregnancy-induced hypertension five months in, leaving her swollen and exhausted. Though she still had a month until her due date, she had unexpectedly gone into earlybor.


    Elsa folded her arms and fixed Emmett with a pointed look. ¡°I warned you, didn¡¯t I? At Shari¡¯s age, she shouldn¡¯t be having children. But you wouldn¡¯t listen. And now look at what¡¯s happened.¡±


    Before Emmett could reply, the door to one of the operating rooms burst open. A doctor rushed out, his voice sharp and urgent. ¡°Who is here for Shari Mitchell? The patient is hemorrhaging¡ªshe needs a blood transfusion immediately!¡±


    Emmett¡¯s nerves werepletely shot. He edged closer to the doctor, his voice trembling. ¡°Is she in danger? Please¡ªyou have to save her.¡±


    The doctor tried to calm him. ¡°Stay calm. She¡¯s experiencing significant bleeding, but a transfusion will stabilize her.¡± Emmett gave a stiff nod, but the reassurance barelynded. He resumed pacing, his dread deepening with every minute that crawled by.


    ????d????§Ö?? ????????y w§Ö??k ??n ??§Ñ??nov??????.c????


    Ethan noticed and walked over, gently steering him into a chair. ¡°Try not to worry. This hospital handles emergencies like this all the time. Shari is in good hands.¡±


    Emmett nodded again, his eyes fixed on the operating room doors. He watched nurses hurry back and forth carrying blood packs, each second stretching into what felt like an eternity.


    Atst, a nurse emerged holding a tiny bundle. ¡°Family of Rosanna Mitchell?¡±


    Kenny straightened immediately and stepped forward. ¡°That¡¯s me.¡±


    ¡°Congrattions¡ªyou have a healthy baby boy.¡± The nurse offered a quick smile, ced the newborn in his arms, and slipped back inside.


    Elsa leaned in, her face lighting up with delight. ¡°Kenny, look at him! He¡¯s the spitting image of you as a baby.¡±


    Momentster, two more nurses appeared, each cradling a newborn. ¡°Family of Shari Mitchell?¡±


    Ethan helped Emmett to his feet and steadied him as he walked over. The sight of his two babies, with no sign of Shari, sent his emotions reeling. ¡°How is my wife?¡± His hands shook as he reached out to take the infants, nearly fumbling in his agitation. The Astley family members stepped in quickly, taking the babies from him before anything could happen.


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 Chapter 1743

    Chapter 1743:


    ¡°The mother is still in surgery,¡± a nurse said briefly, then turned and hurried back inside.


    Not long after, Rosanna was wheeled out on a gurney. Kenny passed the baby to Brenna and rushed to his wife¡¯s side. ¡°How are you feeling, honey?¡±


    A tired but joyful smile crossed Rosanna¡¯s face. ¡°Everything went smoothly. I¡¯m all right.¡±


    Emmett nced at Kenny and Rosanna, but his thoughts never strayed from Shari. She had checked in before Rosanna, yet herbor showed no sign of ending. How could he not be worried? Regret gnawed at him. He never should have let her go through with the pregnancy. She was no longer young¡ªchildbirth carried real risks for her. If something happened to her, he knew he would never forgive himself.


    The minutes barely moved. Rosanna was already resting in her hospital room, while Shari still hadn¡¯t been brought out. Two more sma bags were rushed into the operating room.


    Four agonizing hours passed before the nurses finally wheeled Shari out.


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    The doctor exined afterward that she had suffered internal bleeding. Finding the source had taken a long time. It had taken four thousand milliliters of sma before they finally brought it under control.


    Shariy still on the gurney, all color drained from her face, lost in a deep, exhausted sleep. Emmett¡¯s chest tightened at the sight of her.


    ¡°Doctor,¡± he said, his voice barely steady, ¡°will my wife be all right?¡±


    The doctor offered a measured reassurance. ¡°Her vitals have stabilized. She should regain consciousness within the hour. We¡¯ll continue to monitor her closely.¡±


    For the first time all day, relief washed over Emmett. The thought of losing Shari had frightened him in a way he hadn¡¯t expected. He had assumed that at his age, he was past the kind of helpless, consuming love that left a person undone¡ªbut Shari had proved him wrong. She was gentle, always thoughtful, and he found he was willing to give her anything she asked for.


    About an hourter, Shari¡¯s eyelids fluttered open. Her family gathered around her bed at once. Her mother, more emotional than anyone else in the room, struggled to hold back tears.


    Emmett took her hand and held it. ¡°You¡¯re finally awake. Both our girls are healthy. You¡¯ve been through so much for this family. You¡¯re a hero. Is there anything you¡¯re craving? I¡¯ll have the maid prepare it for you.¡±


    Shari¡¯s smile was faint but genuine. She knew full well how close she hade to not waking up at all. The word ¡°hemorrhage¡± still echoed in her memory¡ªshe had felt her life beginning to slip away. And yet she had no regrets. She had brought two daughters into the world, her own small legacy. Even if things had ended there, she told herself she could have epted it.


    ¡°Where are my babies?¡± she said, her voice soft but her mood unmistakably bright. ¡°I want to see them.¡±


    The moment sheid eyes on her daughters¡ªtiny and wrinkled, still new to the world¡ªshe let out a quietugh. ¡°They¡¯re a little ugly, aren¡¯t they?¡±


    Her mother wiped at happy tears. ¡°Give them time, sweetheart. They¡¯ll be beautiful before you know it.¡±


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 Chapter 1744

    Chapter 1744:


    With Shari safe and finally awake, the tension that had gripped Emmett all day slowly released its hold. Only then did he lift his newborn daughters into his arms and look at them¡ªtruly look at them¡ªfor the very first time.


    In the neighboring hospital room, Rosanna cradled her newborn son, her eyes shining with a tender, quiet joy.


    Elsa stood a few feet away, arms folded, her gaze moving over the infant withplicated feelings. She liked the baby¡ªshe did¡ªbut the hard lessons of Rosanna and Kenny¡¯s first child had already shaped her decision. This time, she would not involve herself in raising him. Money would be her contribution, and that would have to be enough.


    After a brief pause, she tapped her phone and transferred thirty million dors to Rosanna¡¯s ount. ¡°Take this¡ªhire professional nannies, arrange proper postpartum care, and make sure you rest. Your healthes first.¡± She went on, covering every detail with careful precision. Kenny listened in silence, taking in every word.


    Families like theirs didn¡¯t rely on grandmothers to raise children anyway. Trained, professional nannies could provide that care with far more expertise. All Kenny and Rosanna needed to do was be present enough to bond with their son, so he never grew up feeling neglected.


    Not long after, Ethan and Brenna arrived and added a hundred million to Rosanna¡¯s ount.


    Rosanna went still, looking from Elsa to Ethan and Brenna. Words failed her. She didn¡¯t particrly like any of them, but she couldn¡¯t deny their generosity. Combined with what had been given when Emmie was born, she and Kenny now had enough to live without financial worry for the foreseeable future. She could stay home and care for the baby without working a single day if she chose to.


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    A quiet rity settled over her. Even if she found these people difficult, there were clear advantages to keeping the rtionship on good terms. Elsa, irritating as she was, was the baby¡¯s grandmother and would likely continue to be generous. Brenna and Ethan were wealthier still¡ªthey would surely be good to their nephew in the years ahead. The more she turned it over in her mind, the more she resolved to adjust her attitude.


    Kenny smiled warmly and nodded. ¡°Then we¡¯ll dly ept all of this. Thank you¡ªon behalf of the baby.¡±


    Brenna nced down at the tiny infant, a soft smile touching her face. ¡°Let your wife rest,¡± she said to Kenny. ¡°We won¡¯t keep you any longer.¡± With that, they all slipped quietly out of the room.


    In the corridor, Elsa turned to Ethan, her brow creased. ¡°How much did you give your father?¡±


    Ethan met her gaze steadily. ¡°Mom, we didn¡¯t give him anything. His pension is enough to support the children.¡±


    Brenna, well aware that Elsa¡¯s greatest fear was Shari receiving so much as a single penny from them, added, ¡°That¡¯s right. Not a cent.¡±


    Elsa¡¯s frown deepened. ¡°Don¡¯t try to fool me. That pension of his barely covers the upkeep on that house. I¡¯m telling you both¡ªdon¡¯t give them anything. Not a single cent. If you do, I will never forgive you.¡±


    Ethan and Brenna exchanged a brief nce and nodded, brushing off her warnings with calm, easy assurances.


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 Chapter 1745

    Chapter 1745:


    As the three of them began to move away, Emmett stepped out of the neighboring room. He was speaking softly to a pair of new nannies, giving them careful, detailed instructions.


    Elsa let out a contemptuous snort. ¡°When you two were children, he couldn¡¯t be bothered. But now? Twin babies in his old age, and suddenly he¡¯s devoted and attentive? What a joke. It turns my stomach.¡±


    Her voice carried just far enough for Emmett to catch every word.


    He turned and walked over, a smug glint in his eye. ¡°Yes, I¡¯m devoted. What are you going to do about it?¡±


    Elsa¡¯s expression hardened. ¡°Don¡¯t act like I don¡¯t know you. You¡ª¡±


    Something long-buried surged in Emmett¡ªa pride he had suppressed for years. For most of their marriage, Elsa had controlled him, always finding a way to win. Now, for once, he had no intention of backing down.


    ¡°What do you know about me?¡± he said. ¡°I love Shari. She is gentle, kind, and thoughtful¡ªnothing like you, with your constant yelling and criticism. For her, I would do anything. I am not the same man I was when I was with you. Go ahead and get angry if you want. See if I care.¡±


    Ethan and Brenna stood quietly to the side, choosing to observe rather than step in.


    Elsa¡¯s voice dripped with scorn. ¡°You¡¯re just in the honeymoon phase. Give it a little more time¡ªyou¡¯ll get tired of her soon enough.¡±


    C????n???§Ö ??????e???? t??a????????t???? §àn g????????v??????.??????


    ¡°Sandra, Professor Lawson¡¯s outfit is freshly pressed and ready.¡± The assistant crossed the room and set a neat shopping bag lightly on Sandra¡¯s desk.


    Sandra didn¡¯t look up. ¡°Leave it there. I¡¯ll take it over myself this afternoon. He¡¯s wearing it to ept his award, so it has to be wless. I won¡¯t feel at ease until I see him try it on.¡±


    ¡°Of course. I¡¯ll remind you at two,¡± the assistant said with a smile.


    A little before noon, Sandra¡¯s phone rang. It was Jordy.


    ¡°Sandra, want to grab lunch together?¡±


    Her eyes remained fixed on her screen. The design draft for Kelley Shaw¡¯s birthday gown glowed before her¡ªher fourth attempt, and still nothing felt right. With the deadline only two days away, every minute counted, and her inspiration was wearing thin. ¡°Not today,¡± she said. ¡°I need to finish this design. We can do lunch another time.¡±


    No matter how she sketched, something was always off.


    Over the past couple of years, she had built a steady stream of personalizedmissions. Her clients weren¡¯t the ultra-wealthy like Ethan or Ernst, and she didn¡¯t mind. Her prices sat in the moderate range¡ªanywhere from a few thousand to a few hundred thousand¡ªnothing like Ellie, whose rates were in an entirely different league. Sandra had made peace with that. She focused on the mid-tier market and stayed realistic about where she stood. But she believed she was improving, bit by bit. One day, she would close that gap.


    On the other end of the call, Jordy¡¯s expression darkened the moment she declined. He sat across from a striking young woman¡ªsoft features, ivory dress, longshes framing bright eyes. The table between them wasden with luxury: steak, foie gras, a deep red wine, every dish expensive.


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 Chapter 1746

    Chapter 1746:


    He kept his faceposed, but softened his voice. ¡°All right, then. I¡¯ll pick you up after work. Love you.¡±


    ¡°No need,¡± Sandra replied. ¡°I¡¯m dropping off Professor Lawson¡¯s suit this afternoon, then going to a client¡¯s home for measurements and style nning. I probably won¡¯t be back untilte. You don¡¯t have toe.¡±


    For two years, Jordy had pursued her with unfailing devotion, and she had slowly opened her heart to him¡ªenough that she had even begun thinking about formally introducing him to her father. She exchanged a few warm words with him, then hung up and returned to her work.


    Jordy, meanwhile, set his phone face-down on the table. He reached into his jacket and produced a small velvet box, opening it just enough for the young woman across from him to see the pearl ne inside¡ªstudded with tiny diamonds that caught the light and shimmered.


    He rose, circled around behind her, and fastened it gently around her neck. ¡°Z, do you like it?¡±


    The moment the sp clicked, his hand slipped beneath her elegant dress. Z rk didn¡¯t pull away¡ªif anything, she leaned into it.


    ¡°It¡¯s gorgeous! I love it!¡± she eximed.


    Jordy leaned in and kissed her. A woman seated nearby quietly raised her phone, recorded the moment, noted the restaurant¡¯s location, and sent the video directly to Sandra.


    Z was a senior at Shirie University. Jordy had been seeing her for over a year, their affair carefully concealed, and Sandra had never suspected a thing.


    Beneath his attentive behavior toward Sandra, Jordy nursed a quiet, simmering resentment. They had been together for more than two years, and she had never let the rtionship progress past holding hands. Behind her back, he oftenined that she was cold, too proud for her own good. He sometimes wondered what he was doing bending over backward for an illegitimate daughter¡ªthe thought made even him feel foolish.


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    He had first crossed paths with Z at a bar, one evening out with a client. She was working there part-time as a singer. After he left her a tip, she came over to thank him, and that was where it had begun. Z came from a humble background, but she was lovely and warm¡ªexactly the type Jordy was drawn to.


    When Sandra opened the forwarded video, her blood ran hot in an instant. She grabbed her phone, pushed back from her desk, and strode out of the studio. ¡°Start the car,¡± she told her bodyguard, not breaking her stride. ¡°We¡¯re going to Star Restaurant. Now.¡±


    Star Restaurant sat just around the corner¡ªsmall, polished, and surprisingly pricey for a space that barely stretched past a hundred square meters.


    The drive took only three minutes, but in those three minutes, Sandra¡¯s thoughts spun without pause.


    Anger crackled under her skin, hot and electric. Jordy had been with her for a long time,vishing her with affection¡ªflowers, gifts, words calibrated to sound sincere¡ªwhile all along seeing another girl behind her back. The video left no room for doubt. She had watched his hand move to the other girl¡¯s chest. That kind of intimacy didn¡¯t appear overnight. It took months¡ªsix, at minimum.


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 Chapter 1747

    Chapter 1747:


    Which meant that while he performed his devotion to her, he had been enjoying someone else entirely.


    They had probably slept together, too. The thought made her stomach turn.


    Inside the restaurant, Jordy and Z were settled in a quiet corner well away from the windows. Neither noticed Sandra walk in. Z was leaning toward him, her voice soft and private. ¡°Jordy, I¡¯m pregnant.¡±


    Sandra had already suspected they¡¯d been sleeping together, but hearing the words out loud still cut through her like a de. Without thinking twice, she snatched a wine ss from the nearest empty table and flung the contents straight into Jordy¡¯s face.


    Jordy recoiled, his expression cycling through shock as he scrambled for something to say. ¡°Sandra, listen, I can exin¡ª¡±


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    She didn¡¯t wait to hear it. ¡°We¡¯re done,¡± she said, her voice cold and even. ¡°I¡¯m breaking up with you.¡±


    She had seen everything with her own eyes. What exnation could possibly matter now? There was nothing left to discuss.


    It wasn¡¯t as though shecked options. She was a Harper¡ªmen practically formed a queue for a chance to be with her. She had suspected for some time that Jordy had a wandering eye, which was precisely why she had never agreed to get engaged to him. She had nned to test him a little longer. Clearly, he couldn¡¯t wait.


    Jordy lurched forward and grabbed her wrist. ¡°Let me exin! She seduced me!¡±


    A coldugh escaped her. Then her hand flew up and cracked across his face, sharp enough to turn every head in the room. ¡°She seduced you? And what¡ªshe yanked your pants down herself? She grabbed your hand and pressed it to her chest? I¡¯m not stupid, Jordy. Stop trying to fool me.¡±


    Jordy felt the full weight of his mistake settle over him. He never should have brought Z to a restaurant so close to Sandra¡¯s studio.


    Nearby, Z had gone pale. She sat frozen for a moment, then grabbed her bag and slipped out before Sandra¡¯s fury could turn in her direction. She knew perfectly well that Jordy would never marry her¡ªshe had never expected him to. The arrangement had been straightforward: in the past year alone, he had given her over three million dors, more than enough to cover her tuition and future graduate school expenses.


    Jordy watched her go and made no move to stop her.


    ¡°Sandra, please,¡± he said, his voice dropping to something pleading. ¡°I love you. I swear I do. Just let me exin¡ª¡±


    ¡°Keep lying if you like. See if I believe a word of it.¡± She pulled her arm free. ¡°There is nothing left between us. Don¡¯t contact me again.¡± She turned and walked out of the restaurant without a backward nce.


    Inside her car, the moment the door clicked shut, the dam broke. Tears streamed down her face. Somewhere along the way¡ªquietly, without meaning to¡ªshe had fallen for Jordy. Whether it was truly love or something else, she couldn¡¯t be certain, but whatever it was, it hurt.


    By the time she reached home, her eyes were burning and her chest felt hollow. Jordy was already there, leaning against his car as though he had been waiting for some time. Cigarette butts littered the ground around him.


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 Chapter 1748

    Chapter 1748:


    He stepped in front of her car and raised his palm, his voice unsteady. ¡°Sandra, please¡ªgive me another chance. I swear I¡¯ll change.¡±


    ¡°Get lost!¡± She climbed out of the car, shoved him aside, and walked toward the door.


    Darrell stepped forward. ¡°Miss Harper, should I remove him?¡±


    ¡°Yes. We¡¯ve broken up.¡± Her voice was low and tight with fury. She couldn¡¯t bear to look at him. The images ying in her mind were unbearable.


    She turned to the bodyguards behind her. ¡°Teach him a lesson.¡±


    Darrell and the others moved outside and surrounded Jordy, fistsnding hard and fast until his face was swollen and blood ran down his jaw.


    Even curled on the ground, Jordy kept calling after her, his voice hoarse and desperate. ¡°Sandra¡ªI know I was wrong. Please, just this once. I¡¯ve already ended things with her. It won¡¯t happen again!¡± But Sandra walked inside without acknowledging a single word.


    A short whileter, Brenna arrived home. Through her car window, she caught sight of the Harper bodyguards standing in a rough circle, fists still flying. Curious, she stepped out for a closer look.


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    When she realized the man at the center of it was Jordy, a softugh escaped her. She saw no reason to intervene, and walked calmly into the house.


    ¡°Brenna, help me!¡± Jordy called out the moment he spotted her.


    Sandra sat fuming on the sofa, her heel tapping a restless rhythm against the hardwood floor. The moment Brenna walked in, she burst out, ¡°That Jordy! Can you believe he was seeing someone else behind my back? I caught him today. And the nerve of him¡ªhe actually had the gall to beg for my forgiveness. Now I understand every reason you¡¯ve ever refused to work with him. He¡¯s absolutely disgusting.¡±


    Brenna settled beside her, calm as always. ¡°He¡¯s only ever cared about money. Nothing else.¡±


    Something clicked for Sandra in that moment. When she wasn¡¯t consumed with thoughts of squeezing money out of the Harpers, life in this house was actually quite pleasant. The conversations here were easy and genuine.


    ¡°I don¡¯t even want to breathe the same air as him again,¡± Sandra muttered. ¡°I¡¯m returning every single thing he¡¯s bought me over the past two years.¡± She pushed off the sofa and disappeared upstairs. About five minutester, she came back down carrying severalrge shopping bags.


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­ quite a lot,¡± Brenna said, her eyes moving over the bags, which were visibly stuffed with luxury items. She raised an eyebrow. ¡°These must be worth a small fortune. You¡¯re really ready to let all of it go?¡±


    Sandra didn¡¯t hesitate. ¡°Yes. I¡¯m not about to be tethered to him by a pile of expensive trinkets. I have my own money now. I don¡¯t need anything of his.¡±


    And to be fair, Jordy had spent an absurd amount on her over the yearsvish gifts, grand gestures, anything shy enough to distract from his true character. The total had likely climbed toward a hundred million. The jewelry alone could have stocked a small vault, each piecefortably worth over a million.


    Still in her heels, Sandra strode to the front door and hurled the bags outside. ¡°Everything you¡¯ve given me in thest two years¡ªtake it back. And don¡¯t you dare show your face in my life again.¡±


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 Chapter 1749

    Chapter 1749:


    Jordy was still on the driveway, hunched over and wincing, nursing his injuries. He looked up at her and tried his best to seem pitiful. ¡°Sandra, I know I was wrong. Please¡ªforgive me. Just give me one more chance. I swear I¡¯ll never hurt you again.¡±


    Sandra didn¡¯t so much as nce at him. She turned and walked back inside.


    Jordy scrambled to his feet and reached after her, but the bodyguards stepped in without effort, blocking his path.


    Back in the living room, Sandraunched into a full ount of what had happened at Star Restaurant, pulling up the video Kelley had recorded and handing her phone to Brenna.


    Brenna watched it, frowned, and let out a slow, tired sigh. ¡°Next time, maybe choose a boyfriend with a working moralpass.¡±


    Sandra threw her head back against the cushions. ¡°I probably won¡¯t be dating anyone for a good long while.¡±


    Just then, the front door opened and Giselle and Shepard came in, with Kalel trotting between them, a toy gun gripped in both hands as if it were the most precious thing in the world. The moment he spotted Brenna, he made a beeline for her with small, determined steps.


    She scooped him up easily. ¡°Where have you been ying, soldier?¡±


    Kalel, still working on his words, mumbled, ¡°Amusement park.¡±


    Giselle strolled in twirling a cheap stic pinwheel between her fingers, while Shepard followed close behind with a bright, bobbing balloon.


    Sandra¡¯s expression lifted the moment she saw them. ¡°Dad, Giselle, you¡¯re back.¡±


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    Giselle got straight to the point. ¡°Did you break up with Jordy? He was making a scene outside, so I had security send him away.¡±


    Sandra exhaled and rubbed the back of her neck. ¡°Yes, we¡¯re done. He was cheating. Good thing I listened to you and kept an eye on him¡ªotherwise, he would have made a fool out of me.¡± She leaned forward slightly. ¡°You mentioned setting me up with someone before, didn¡¯t you? I¡¯m ready. I¡¯ll do the blind date.¡±


    Giselle nodded. ¡°He¡¯s someone I came across at a school reunion¡ªthe son of an old ssmate. Steady government job, good family background, owns his own home and car, and he¡¯s both handsome and reliable. His father is a senior government official, and his mother works at the tax bureau¡ªpossibly as deputy director by now.¡±


    It urred to Sandra only then that Giselle hadn¡¯t been pushing her toward just anyone before. The man genuinely sounded like a good match.


    ¡°Thank you, Giselle. I mean it. I¡¯ll go along with whatever you arrange,¡± she said.


    She was half-expecting Giselle to still be cold about her having turned down the introduction earlier. One nce confirmed it¡ªGiselle¡¯s expression was reserved, and she clearly had no interest in prolonging the conversation.


    Shepard filled the silence with a gentleugh. ¡°When Giselle sets someone up, she doesn¡¯t do it lightly. Men like that are hard toe by. There¡¯s always a queue of people trying to get an introduction, and the women they¡¯re usually matched with are quite remarkable themselves.¡±


    Sandra felt a flutter of quiet anticipation. She found herself hoping she wouldn¡¯t have to wait long to meet him.


    The following afternoon, Sandra finally finished Kelley¡¯s design draft. She rolled the stiffness from her shoulders, handed the folder to her assistant, and told her to begin gathering materials so production could start first thing in the morning.


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 Chapter 1750

    Chapter 1750:


    It wasn¡¯t even four o¡¯clock yet. With a rare sliver of free time on her hands, she decided to stop by her mother¡¯s ce. She hadn¡¯t visited in half a month.


    On the drive over, she called Keira to ask if she needed anything.


    Keira didn¡¯t bother with a greeting. ¡°Where have you been hiding yourself? You haven¡¯te to see me in ages! Did you forget you have a mother?¡±


    ¡°Of course not. I¡¯ve just been swamped.¡± Sandra sighed, navigating through traffic. ¡°The studio has been buried inrge orders. Clients on my neck, all wanting their dresses at the same time.¡±


    Hearing that familiar edge in her mother¡¯s voice, she knew better than to show up empty-handed. She pulled into a jewelry boutique, chose a pearl ne with matching earrings¡ªsimple, elegant¡ªand continued on her way.


    When she arrived, Keira was stretched out on the sofa watching a drama. The moment Sandra produced the ne, everyint dissolved. Keira¡¯s face lit up; she fastened the ne around her neck, clipped on the earrings, and spent afortable stretch admiring herself in the mirror.


    ¡°I had the housekeeper make some of your favorite dishes,¡± she said, still smiling at her reflection. ¡°Stay for dinner and keep mepany.¡± Then, almost as an afterthought, she asked, ¡°How much did the ne cost?¡±


    Sandra shrugged lightly. ¡°A little over thirty thousand. Nothing too extravagant.¡±


    Keira gave a satisfied nod. Once upon a time, a thirty-thousand-dor ne would have been a fantasy. Now that her daughter was officially part of the Harper family, the figure felt almost modest.


    After a moment, Sandra said, ¡°Mom¡ªJordy and I broke up.¡±


    She had brought him around several times over the past two years; it seemed only right to tell her. Keira blinked, surprised but far from upset. ¡°All right. I never liked him anyway. That man was no good.¡±


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    Sandra raised an eyebrow. ¡°Oh? And how exactly did you figure that out?¡±


    Keira folded her arms with a decisive snort. ¡°Just look at his face. Always uneasy¡ªthose shifty little eyes and that fake smile. Definitely not a good man. Forget him. I¡¯ll find you someone better.¡±


    Sandra rolled her eyes. ¡°You? Please. The people you know either gamble or spend all day ying poker. Giselle said she¡¯d introduce me to her ssmate¡¯s son¡ªhe works in government. Sounds promising, doesn¡¯t it?¡±


    Keira scoffed. ¡°Giselle? You actually trust her? Since when has she been generous enough to set you up with someone decent? She¡¯ll probably hook you up with someone every other woman in the city has already rejected¡ªshort, dull, or hiding some terrible secret.¡±


    That stung. ¡°Mom, stop it. He¡¯s a civil servant. How bad could he be? And Giselle has been good to me these past two years¡ª¡±


    ¡°Good to you?¡± Keira cut her off, eyes shing. ¡°What, are you nning to call her Mom next? Don¡¯t forget¡ªI am your mother. That woman can¡¯t stand me, and if she can¡¯t stand me, she probably feels the same way about you. She isn¡¯t helping you; she¡¯s setting you up for humiliation. Mark my words. When is this blind date? I¡¯ming with you. If she tries to make a fool of you, I¡¯ll make her regret it.¡±


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 Chapter 1751

    Chapter 1751:


    Sandra knew better than to push back. Years of bad blood had long since hardened her mother¡¯s feelings about Giselle. She let it go and changed the subject.


    ¡°Forget it, Mom. I¡¯m telling you as a courtesy, not asking you to supervise. Maybe you should find yourself a hobby¡ªget a pet, take more walks, meet some people in the neighborhood. Just something to keep you upied.¡±


    Keira fixed her with a sharp look. ¡°What, you want me to get married again at my age? Are you already tired of me?¡±


    Sandra exhaled, palms raised. ¡°No. I just think you have too much free time. It wouldn¡¯t hurt to keep yourself busy with something.¡±


    Keira let out a dramatic sigh. ¡°Busy with what? Old men? Absolutely not. They get sick, fall apart, and the women beside them end up nursing them through it all. If I married one, I¡¯d just be babysitting someone¡¯s grandfather. I have money and I have peace¡ªwhy on earth would I throw that away? I¡¯m perfectly content on my own. I have servants to look after me. I don¡¯t need a husband.¡±


    The doorbell chimed just as the maid was busy in the kitchen. Sandra went to answer it.


    On the doorstep stood an elderly man in a neatly pressed striped shirt and ck trousers, dark sunsses on his nose and a straw hat on his head. For someone his age, he radiated an unusual vitality. He blinked in mild surprise when he saw Sandra instead of Keira, then asked with careful courtesy, ¡°Is Keira home?¡±


    Sandra took a moment to size him up. He had the kind of handsomeness that time hadn¡¯t entirely erased¡ªsomewhere in his sixties, with good manners evident in every detail of his bearing.


    ¡°Yes,¡± she replied, then turned toward the living room. ¡°Mom? Someone¡¯s here for you!¡±


    The man offered a warm chuckle. ¡°So you¡¯re Keira¡¯s daughter. I¡¯m Henson Perkins¡ªjust call me Henson. I¡¯m your mother¡¯s dance partner. I came to invite her to a gathering.¡± He paused, then continued, ¡°She¡¯s told me about you. Said you¡¯re a designer¡ªtalented, beautiful, and capable. Seeing you now, I¡¯d say she wasn¡¯t exaggerating.¡± As he spoke, he angled his head, trying to peer past Sandra into the house. ¡°Where is your mother? We¡¯re already runningte.¡±


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    Keira appeared a momentter and went visibly tense the instant she saw him. ¡°Why are you here?¡± she hissed, flustered. ¡°My daughter will get the wrong idea.¡±


    Henson exined patiently. ¡°How was I supposed to know she was visiting? You¡¯re always at the park by five sharp, but it was already ten minutes past and you hadn¡¯t shown up. I thought something might have happened to you, so I came to check. That¡¯s all.¡± He gave a light shrug. ¡°You know how it is at our age¡ªidents happen.¡±


    ¡°Oh, stop talking nonsense!¡± Keira eximed. ¡°I¡¯m in perfect health. My daughter takes me for check-ups every year. There¡¯s nothing wrong with me. Now, go. I¡¯m spending the day with her, so there will be no dancing tonight.¡±


    She was eager to send him off before Sandra could read too much into the situation.


    ¡°All right then. We¡¯ll go tomorrow¡ªbut you have toe,¡± Henson said pleasantly.


    ¡°Fine. Off you go.¡± Keira waved him away and went to find Sandra, who had drifted into the kitchen to watch the maid at work. The aroma of food had already spread through the house.


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 Chapter 1752

    Chapter 1752:


    When Keira appeared in the doorway, Sandra turned to her with a teasing smile. ¡°Mom¡­ is that your boyfriend?¡±


    Keira raised an eyebrow, a flush of embarrassment coloring her cheeks. ¡°He is not my boyfriend. We dance together at the park. If anything, you could say he¡¯s been pursuing me.¡± She tugged at the gold bracelet on her wrist. ¡°See this? He gave it to me. But don¡¯t go reading into it¡ªmarriage is not on the table. I simply enjoy dancing with him. His wife passed awayst year, and his children all have families of their own now, so he lives alone.¡±


    Sandra kept her expression gentle and let her mother talk, nodding here and there without interruption.


    When Keira finally wound down, Sandra said lightly, ¡°Honestly? I wouldn¡¯t mind if you got married again.¡±


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    Keira straightened as though she¡¯d been poked. ¡°What nonsense. I already told you¡ªI am not getting married. If anything, I might consider having a boyfriend. But that¡¯s it.¡±


    ¡°All right, all right,¡± Sandra replied, raising her hands in surrender. ¡°Still, he seems like a decent man. And I¡¯d imagine his pension isn¡¯t small.¡±


    A flicker of quiet pride crossed Keira¡¯s face. ¡°More than ten thousand a month. And all his children have solid jobs¡ªnone of them lean on him for money. His situation is really quite good, much better than your father¡¯s ever was. And the best part? He doesn¡¯t care that I¡¯m missing a hand. He¡¯s thoughtful and generous.¡±


    Sandra arched an eyebrow. ¡°So you do like him.¡±


    Keira shot her a sharp look and changed the subject without missing a beat. ¡°Promise me you¡¯ll tell me before you go on that blind date. I want to see whether the man is decent. If Giselle dares to set you up with the wrong person, I won¡¯t let it go.¡±


    Sandra sighed. ¡°She only mentioned it in passing. She never said anything definite. What if he¡¯s already taken? You always assume the worst. What if he¡¯s actually a good man, but he refuses to date me because of how I was born? What do I do then?¡±


    Keira dismissed that with a wave of her hand. ¡°Stop holding onto that. You are my daughter¡ªtalented, a fashion designer, and a Harper. And that man is a mid-level official. Do you honestly think Shepard isn¡¯t using you to build a little goodwill with people in government? Businesspeople getting close to officials is perfectly normal.¡±


    Sandra considered that. ¡°And so what if it¡¯s true? As long as I¡¯m useful to the Harper family, they¡¯ll treat me well.¡±


    Giselle and her old ssmate Brandon Vargas had arranged to meet at Moonlight Restaurant over the weekend.


    Moonlight Restaurant was something close to a pce¡ªglimmering chandeliers, polished marble floors, and an atmosphere that drew Shirie¡¯s elite like a ma.


    Just as Giselle was preparing to leave, Brenna arrived home. Even though it was the weekend, Ethan had a social engagement to attend, and Elsa had gone along with him¡ªsomething to do with Brindleton Girls¡¯ School, helping students secure internships and work-study cements after university. With the house unusually quiet, Brenna had decided to spend the evening with the Harper family instead.


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 Chapter 1753

    Chapter 1753:


    ¡°Where are you off to?¡± Brenna asked, tilting her head with mild curiosity as Giselle headed for the door.


    Giselle gestured toward the car. ¡°I arranged a blind date for Sandra. We¡¯re heading there now. Would you like toe?¡±


    Brenna paused beside the car. ¡°Is it all right if I join?¡±


    Sandra waved her hand without concern. Brenna was already married¡ªthere was no question ofpetition. ¡°Of course. Come along and give me your honest opinion.¡±


    And with that, the three of them set off for Moonlight Restaurant.


    In room 505, a middle-aged man, a man in his thirties, and an elegantly dressed woman were already seated. They carried themselves with the quiet, unhurried poise of people entirely ustomed to Shirie¡¯s upper circles.


    ¡°Brandon, I¡¯m sorry we¡¯rete,¡± Giselle said as she entered.


    Brandon, calm and measured, offered a polite smile. His voice carried the easy authority of someone long ustomed to leadership. ¡°Not at all¡ªwe arrived early. You¡¯re right on time. Allow me to introduce my wife, Maggie Vargas, and my son, Dominik Vargas.¡±


    Giselle introduced Brenna and Sandra in turn. Courteous nods and smiles were exchanged all around.


    First impressions were favorable on both sides. Dominik¡¯s gaze rested briefly on Brenna, clearly struck by her appearance. But the moment he learned she was already married to Ethan, CEO of the Mitchell Group, his attention shifted ordingly. His date was Sandra¡ªnot as immediately striking as Brenna, but pleasant andposed.


    Sandra, for her part, studied Dominik quietly. He was in-looking and not particrly tall, but he seemed like a genuinely decent person with good manners.


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    As the conversation flowed, Sandra¡¯s phone buzzed. Keira had sent a message asking for a photo of her date. Sandra ignored it. Taking pictures at a first meeting felt impolite. A second message arrived shortly after¡ªKeira wanted the restaurant¡¯s location. Sandra ignored that too, quietly dreading the possibility that her mother might actually show up and derail everything.


    Before long, Dominik suggested they exchange contacts.


    Sandra hesitated. He wasn¡¯t striking in the way that turned heads, and his wealth was nowhere near that of Ethan, Jordy, Andres, or the other men who had orbited her life. On first impression, he didn¡¯t leave much of a mark. His appealy chiefly in his family background¡ªhis parents were high-ranking government officials, and that carried its own kind of weight.


    Even so, Sandra reasoned that a man in his position was unlikely to get tangled in romantic dramas. Turning him down outright felt unnecessarily hasty. She could wait and see how things developed, and if they didn¡¯t, there would always be a graceful way out.


    Dominik was thinking along simr lines, though not with great enthusiasm. If he were honest, he had found Brenna far morepelling at first nce. He also had his reservations about Sandra¡¯s circumstances¡ªborn out of wedlock was not an ideal profile for someone in his position as a government secretary, with a promising career ahead of him. And yet, a connection to the Harper family was not something to dismiss lightly. The professional advantages alone made it worth exploring. He decided to give it a chance, despite his reservations.


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 Chapter 1754

    Chapter 1754:


    And so Sandra and Dominik exchanged numbers, both perfectly cordial, neither particrly swept away.


    Their parents, however, were quietly delighted. Brandon and Maggie, in particr, seemed quite taken with Sandra.


    Brenna hadn¡¯t thought much of the whole arrangement. Dominik wasn¡¯t particrly handsome, but he spoke with confidence, carried himself withposure, and treated everyone with courtesy. At the very least, he seemed like someone pleasant enough to spend time with.


    She couldn¡¯t tell exactly what was going through Sandra¡¯s mind, but the stiffness in her expression made it clear she wasn¡¯t impressed. It wasn¡¯t her blind date, though, so Brenna kept her thoughts to herself.


    After what felt like a very long evening, the matchmaking dinner finally came to a close. Sandra had maintained a polite front throughout, and the effort alone had been exhausting. When the Vargases walked them out, she felt nothing but relief to have it behind her.


    As Brenna stepped out of the private dining room, she noticed a man and woman emerging from the room directly across the hall. She didn¡¯t recognize the man, but the woman was instantly familiar¡ªGracie, someone she hadn¡¯t seen in a long time. Gracie appeared to have made her peace with things; she had long since stopped hovering around Ethan and had quietly faded from their circle.


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    ¡°Mr. Rowe, it was a pleasure working with you,¡± Gracie said with a professional smile, shaking the man¡¯s hand.


    She turned and left without noticing Brenna.


    Brenna didn¡¯t call out to her. Instead, she discreetly took a photo of the man, intending to ask Ethanter whether he knew who he was. She had heard fragments here and there about Gracie¡¯s recent endeavors¡ªsigning significant deals, backing promising projects, quietly earning a small fortune along the way.


    Back at home, Giselle turned to Sandra. ¡°So¡ªwhat did you think of Dominik?¡±


    Sandra was straightforward. ¡°Giselle, I don¡¯t like him. I simply don¡¯t feel anything.¡±


    Giselle felt a flicker of disappointment. She had been hoping to see Sandra settled sooner rather thanter¡ªhaving her out of the house would make life considerably more peaceful. But Sandra clearly had no interest in Dominik.


    ¡°All right, then forget it,¡± Giselle said. ¡°If he¡¯s not right for you, I¡¯ll find someone else before long.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Giselle. Honestly, I¡¯m not in any rush to get married. I¡¯d rather wait. If I never meet someone suitable, that¡¯s fine too. Divorce rates are through the roof these days, and decent men are genuinely hard to find. I don¡¯t want to end up with another Jordy or Andres.¡±


    In truth, Sandra had no desire to leave the Harper household just yet. She knew perfectly well that once she married, Shepard would stop providing for her.


    Giselle didn¡¯t press the matter.


    Dominik, meanwhile, told his parents he genuinely wanted to keep seeing Sandra. Brandon was immediately enthusiastic¡ªto his mind, the match was ideal. Both families stood at aparable level of society, the Harpers could strengthen their political ambitions, and his own family¡¯s connections could support the Harpers¡¯ business expansion. It was a mutually beneficial alliance in every sense.


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 Chapter 1755

    Chapter 1755:


    The following day, before Giselle even had the chance to ry Sandra¡¯s reluctance, Brandon called first and proposed letting the two spend more time together.


    Giselle passed the message along. Sandra turned it over in her mind for a full night and slowly came around to a different conclusion. Dominik wasn¡¯t handsome, and he wasn¡¯t wealthy enough to dazzle her¡ªbut he was, by any honest measure, a solid choice. A rtionship built on mutual benefit, she reasoned, was actually one of the more stable foundations for marriage.


    ¡°I¡¯ll give it a try,¡± she told Giselle the next morning.


    What followed surprised her. Dominik proved to be a genuinely good man. Aside from his unremarkable looks, he had no real faults¡ªno scandals, noplicated romantic history. He was gentle, thoughtful, and steadily loyal. By most standards, he was an ideal partner. And as for money, someone from a family like his was hardly struggling; he simply didn¡¯t make a show of it.


    Over the next six months, Sandra¡¯s rtionship with Dominik progressed far better than she had expected. The connection even earned her generous allowances from Shepard, who clearly approved of the direction things were heading.


    Their engagement ceremony was extravagant¡ªgrander by far than the birthday celebration Sandra had thrown for herself three years ago. It was during that event that she finally grasped what she represented to both families. She wasn¡¯t marrying for love, but she found herself making a quiet peace with the practicalfort the arrangement promised.


    Dominik, for his part, felt he hadnded exceptionally well. Marrying Sandra brought the Harper family¡¯s influence within reach and gave him a natural connection to Ethan¡ªadvantages that would smooth his path considerably in the years ahead.


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    The engagement day turned out to be wless¡ªsunny skies, warm golden light, and a festive atmosphere that filled the entire venue with energy and warmth.


    Friends and rtives of the Harper family arrived one by one, each offering their congrattions. Before the assembled guests, Shepard, Ernst, and Dalton each stepped forward to present their gifts to Sandra. Shepard handed her a check for one billion dors, while Ernst and Dalton followed with five hundred million each. Shepard also transferred ownership of twopanies into her name, and even Brenna contributed five hundred million dors of her own.


    Sandra felt the full reality of her new position settle over her. Watching the stunned expressions and barely concealed envy on the faces of the guests, she felt, for the first time, that she had truly arrived among the upper ss.


    Giselle added to the asion with several luxury cars, a collection of properties, and twomercial buildings.


    It was in that moment that Sandra understood, withplete rity, the extent of the Harper family¡¯s generosity. As long as she conducted herself with dignity and avoided unnecessary trouble, they were more than willing to treat her well. She was deeply grateful she had never followed Keira¡¯s persistent advice to demand money from them outright.


    She had kept a low profile all along¡ªstaying close to home, asionally making breakfast for the family, pouring most of her energy into her fashion designs. From time to time, she had even made clothes for various family members. They rarely wore them, but they epted the gifts graciously, and to Sandra, that alone had always been enough.


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 Chapter 1756

    Chapter 1756:


    She felt like a true Harper now¡ªrespected and acknowledged. Her only lingering regret was that Keira had not been permitted to attend the ceremony. Even so, Sandra had cooperated fully and never told her mother when the event would take ce.


    The following day, she went to see Keira and found her simmering with suppressed anger. To soften the mood, Sandra handed her a bank card. ¡°Don¡¯t be upset. There¡¯s a million dors on this card¡ªmore than enough for you to livefortably for the rest of your life.¡±


    Keira¡¯s fury dissolved on the spot. She had known, deep down, that the Harper family would never allow her to attend Sandra¡¯s engagement; in their eyes, she was an embarrassment, aplication they wanted no part of. She epted it.


    She grinned at Sandra and kissed the card with theatrical delight. A million dors¡ªit was the finest gift her daughter had ever given her. She was satisfied.


    ¡°As long as you still care about me, I¡¯m not angry,¡± she said. ¡°I won¡¯t hold the party against you. But there is something I¡¯d like to do.¡± Sandra¡¯s stomach sank. She knew that tone all too well. ¡°What is it? Don¡¯t suggest anything unreasonable.¡±


    ¡°Look¡ªyou¡¯re my only child. I have plenty of friends, and your engagement has been all over the news. Everyone already knows about it. They¡¯re allughing at me behind my back because I wasn¡¯t there. So I thought¡ªwhy not bring your fianc¨¦ over to my ce sometime? I¡¯ll invite my friends, and we can hold our own little celebration.¡±


    ¡°Absolutely not,¡± Sandra said, cutting the idea off without hesitation. ¡°Dominik works in government. His reputation matters enormously to him. The fact that I have a mother like you already makes him uneasy. He wants no association with you in public. As far as he¡¯s concerned, his mother-inw is Giselle. As for you¡ª¡± She stopped there, unwilling to press further and wound her mother¡¯s feelings.


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    She reached into her bag and produced a small box, handing it to Keira. Then she added, gently but firmly, ¡°Mom, let¡¯s leave this alone. Dominik¡¯s family upies a very high position. His father is on the verge of being appointed governor, and in a few years, he¡¯ll be positioning himself for an even greater role. Your future will befortable because of this marriage. Please, just let this one thing go.¡±


    Keira sighed. Over the past two years, Sandra had talked her out of more than a few reckless ideas, and she hade to understand the situation better than she once had. She no longer wanted to make things harder for her daughter.


    ¡°Fine,¡± she said atst. ¡°I¡¯ll let it go. But you have toe see me often. Don¡¯t stop visiting me just because your husband disapproves.¡±


    Sandra nodded without hesitation. ¡°Of course. You will always be my mother.¡±


    Two days before Christmas, Jalen and Conor arrived at the Harper residence with their families in tow.


    Giselle met them at the door with her usualposed warmth, setting aside any old grievances without a word. She weed her nephews, their spouses, and their children as graciously as she always did. True to habit, she asked no questions about their careers or ambitions. The pleasant smile on her face remained steady, even as a quiet restraint stayed tucked beneath it¡ªshe had no intention of leveraging the Harper name or her own standing to help them climb further than they had managed on their own.


    Shepard had a prior engagement that day. Although he no longer managed the Harper Group¡¯s daily operations, certain events still required his presence; after years at the helm, his influence and connections remained assets thepany relied upon. Ernst, meanwhile, was away on a family holiday. That left Giselle as the sole host, a role she took seriously. She had instructed the chef to prepare a generous spread for the asion.


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 Chapter 1757

    Chapter 1757:


    Jalen, who had long since grown ustomed to the Harper family¡¯s wealth and refined lifestyle, was genuinely pleased by his aunt¡¯s increasingly warm manner toward him.


    ¡°Auntie, I¡¯ve been promoted,¡± he said. ¡°I actually came today to thank Shepard and Ernst. It¡¯s a pity they¡¯re not here¡ªmy promotion wouldn¡¯t have gone so smoothly without their support.¡±


    He went on with evident enthusiasm, and Giselle listened quietly until he finished, then offered a measured nod. ¡°That¡¯s good news. Just make sure you do the work properly. Don¡¯t take shortcuts.¡±


    Jalen caught the warning in her words immediately. He smiled. ¡°Of course, Auntie. I know better now. My daughter is graduating and about to enter the workforce¡ªI have to set a proper example. I can¡¯t carry on the way I used to. I¡¯ve been saving these past two years. When my mother was ill, Conor covered all the medical bills, so I¡¯ve already given him three hundred thousand to repay him. I can¡¯t let him carry everything alone.¡±


    Giselle gave a small nod. She had been aware of the situation all along but had kept her distance¡ªshe had no wish to get drawn into their tangled affairs.


    Conor smiled. ¡°Jalen did give me the money. And thew firm has been doing very welltely. Shepard and Ernst have entrusted me with all of the Harper Group¡¯s legal work, which has brought in considerably more ie. Other clients followed, and the firm has grown to nearly triple its original size. My family is finally in a good ce.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good,¡± Giselle said. ¡°Keep working hard. The children are watching¡ªmake sure you set the right example for them.¡±


    Throughout the meal, N quietly noticed that Dalton was nowhere to be seen. She had visited the Harper residence several times now and had only managed to cross paths with him twice. She hadn¡¯t realized, until recently, that the celebrated actor¡ªthe award-winning star¡ªwas actually her uncle. Now that she knew, she found herself looking forward to seeing him every time she came. Unfortunately, his schedule was so relentless that he was rarely home.


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    ¡°I missed Uncle Dalton again,¡± she muttered, deted. She had even promised her ssmates she would bring back autographs.


    Giselle heard her andughed softly. ¡°He already prepared some for you.¡± She asked Julia to go upstairs and retrieve them.


    N¡¯s face brightened at once. ¡°That¡¯s wonderful! Do you know when he¡¯ll be back?¡±


    Giselle shook her head with a faint sigh. ¡°I¡¯m not sure. He has several filmingmitments¡ªhe¡¯s either on set or abroad. I haven¡¯t seen him myself in months.¡±


    ¡°Top actors really do have no free time,¡± N said. ¡°I heard he¡¯s nning a concert soon. Could you help me get a few tickets? I tried to buy some, but they sold out immediately.¡±


    ¡°Of course,¡± Giselle said without hesitation.


    A short whileter, Julia returned with a neat stack of signed photographs Dalton had prepared in advance. She passed them to N, who could barely contain her excitement. ¡°My ssmates are going to be so jealous! They kept begging me to bring them here to meet him, but I said no.¡±


    Jalenughed quietly. ¡°You made the right call. This is your uncle¡¯s home¡ªnever bring fans here. If people found out he lived here, the family would have no peace.¡±


    ¡°I know, Dad. I would never tell anyone his address,¡± N replied. ¡°Celebrities need their privacy. They deserve quiet lives just as much as anyone else.¡±


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 Chapter 1758

    Chapter 1758:


    Brenna and Ethan were spending time at Emmett¡¯s home. His twin daughters, who had only recently learned to walk and still couldn¡¯t string a word together, tottered around the living room on unsteady little legs. Brenna and Ethan had brought toys, and they couldn¡¯t help smiling as they watched the two girls make their wobbly circuits across the floor, soft giggles drifting through the room.


    Both children were strikingly pretty. Brenna settled in to y with them alongside Shari, while Ethan drifted over to his father.


    ¡°Dad, what did you want to talk to me about?¡±


    Ethan hadn¡¯t been visiting as often as he might have liked¡ªhis mother¡¯s disapproval made every visit a potential source of conflict. Each time she found out he had been here, an argument followed. To avoid unnecessary tension at home, he had been keeping his visits quiet.


    Emmett, for his part, was in excellent spirits. Even if his sons rarely came by, his two little girls were more than enough to fill his days with warmth and life.


    ¡°Kenny called me yesterday,¡± Emmett said. ¡°He wants me to help Rosannand a position in civil aviation. But after reaching out to some old contacts, it seems no one is willing to hire a woman as a pilot. Can you do something about that?¡±


    Ethan nodded. ¡°Kenny already spoke to me about it. It¡¯s not impossible, Dad¡ªit may just take a little time. I¡¯ll sort something out.¡±


    Emmett let out a sigh. ¡°Honestly, I think Rosanna would do perfectly well in airline management. She doesn¡¯t need to insist on bing a captain or co-pilot. But she¡¯s stubborn. And all the traveling thates with the job¡ªshort domestic flights are one thing, but what about long international routes? Who¡¯s going to look after her son?¡±


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    Ethan didn¡¯t see it as an insurmountable obstacle. He respected Rosanna¡¯s choices and intended to help her however he could. ¡°A nanny can handle that. And Rosanna is more than capable. Men and women aren¡¯t so different in this regard¡ªshe was an outstanding fighter pilot. She can handle it.¡±


    Emmett went on grumbling that Rosanna was difficult to deal with, that her personality was as strong-willed and upromising as Elsa¡¯s had once been. Ethan listened without argument.


    Then Emmett shifted the subject entirely. ¡°So when are you and Brenna nning to have a baby? You¡¯ve been married for nearly two years now¡ªit¡¯s about time.¡±


    He nced toward Brenna and continued, ¡°Her situation is a littleplicated. The military has its eye on her. They¡¯re preparing to put her in charge of the fifth-generation fighter project, which will take at least two or three years toplete. You two should think about starting a family sooner rather thanter, before it interferes with her work down the line.¡±


    Ethan looked caught off guard. ¡°She never mentioned any of that to me.¡± Then his expression shifted to something more urgent. ¡°But Dad¡ªshe¡¯s already pregnant. I need to speak to the military. That project isn¡¯t small, and she shouldn¡¯t be leading something that demanding right now.¡±


    A tight knot of concern settled in his chest. How could the military hand such an exhausting undertaking to a pregnant woman? He wasn¡¯t going to allow Brenna to be buried under that kind of pressure.


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 Chapter 1759

    Chapter 1759:


    He walked straight over to her. ¡°You¡¯re heading up the fifth-generation fighter project?¡±


    Brenna looked up calmly. ¡°Yes. The team is assembled and we start next week. What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    He took her hand, worry in on his face. ¡°You¡¯re carrying our baby. I¡¯m afraid it¡¯ll wear you out. Can¡¯t you dy the project until after the birth?¡±


    Brenna gave him a gentle, reassuring look. ¡°It¡¯s all right. The team handles the bulk of the work. I¡¯m only responsible for the core systems and the control program¡ªit won¡¯t exhaust me. I promise my health won¡¯t be affected.¡±


    Ethan was still unconvinced. He turned back to his father. ¡°Dad, you still have connections in the military. Can you push for the project to be dyed by a year or two?¡±


    Emmett shook his head. ¡°That¡¯s not a decision I have the authority to make. But I can apply some pressure. They probably don¡¯t even know she¡¯s pregnant. Once they do, they¡¯ll reconsider the arrangement. Don¡¯t worry¡ªthe military isn¡¯t unreasonable. They won¡¯t ignore something like this.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s brow furrowed. ¡°Call them now.¡±


    Emmett didn¡¯t hesitate. He picked up his phone and dialed Braeden.


    The moment the call connected, he said, ¡°Braeden, you¡¯re really out of line.¡±


    On the other end, Braeden sounded genuinely confused. ¡°What are you talking about? What did I do?¡±


    ¡°Brenna is pregnant,¡± Emmett said, ¡°and you¡¯re still assigning her a major project? How can you treat her like that?¡±


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    Braeden went quiet for a moment, genuinely caught off guard. ¡°Really? She never told me that,¡± he murmured, a troubled crease forming between his brows. He truly hadn¡¯t known. After a brief pause, he made his decision without hesitation. ¡°Her well-beinges first. We¡¯ll put the fifth-generation fighter program on hold for one year and resume it afterward.¡±


    The swiftness of his response left Emmett and Ethan exchanging startled nces. They had braced themselves for hours of back-and-forth negotiation, only to have the matter resolved in a matter of seconds.


    When Brenna learned of the dy, she epted it withoutint¡ªthough in truth, she had nned to continue sketching design drafts throughout her pregnancy. A little fatigue had never troubled her, and she was confident her condition wouldn¡¯t be significantly affected. Even so, she let it go.


    Within two weeks, Ethan had secured Rosanna a position with civil aviation, assigning her to domestic routes. Rosanna was deeply grateful. Without his intervention, she might never have stepped into a cockpit again. Flying was the great love of her life; even if it wasn¡¯t a fighter jet, piloting amercial aircraft was more than enough.


    Five yearster.


    Brenna was now a mother of three¡ªtwo energetic little boys and a newborn daughter. Her eldest was four and a half, her second child a lively three-year-old, and their baby sister had barely been in the world a month. The long-anticipated fifth-generation fighter design had atst beenpleted, and Brenna, as lead designer, attended the inaugural test flight in person.


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 Chapter 1760 (END)

    Chapter 1760: (END)


    Elsa, meanwhile, had retired upon turning sixty, leaving her post at Brindleton Girls¡¯ Academy for good. She channeled all of her energy into helping Brenna with the children. Despite the presence of several professional nannies, she could never quite bring herself to step back entirely, still quietly haunted by the memory of what had once happened to her very first granddaughter.


    On one warm afternoon, sunlighty soft and golden across thewn where the family had gathered. Elsa sat in a garden chair with her tiny granddaughter nestled in her arms, content in a way she hadn¡¯t been for a very long time.


    A few yards away, Ethan and Brenna were ying with the boys. The children tore across the grass, theirughter ringing out into the open air.


    ¡°Mommy, hurry! Daddy is about to catch us!¡± shouted the older one, Rickey Mitchell.


    His younger brother, Louis Mitchell, sprinted with all the determination his small legs could produce.


    Brenna threw her arms wide, nting herself squarely between them and Ethan. ¡°Don¡¯t worry! Mommy is here. I¡¯ll protect you!¡±


    Ethan lunged dramatically, always falling just short of the boys by a deliberate inch, sending them into fresh rounds of delighted shouts.


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    ¡°Mommy, that was so close! Daddy almost got us!¡± Louis panted, his eyes bright with excitement.


    After a while, the boys dashed off to find water. In the quiet that followed, Ethan¡¯s phone buzzed. One nce at the screen told him everything¡ªthe kindergarten teacher was calling. His expression soured at once. He already knew what it would be about.


    The teacher had been calling with increasing frequency to report on Rickey and Louis¡¯stest mischief. During nap time, the two had taken to tampering with the ssroom¡¯s security cameras, freezing the footage so they could slip outside undetected to y. The fact that children so young could hack into a school system using nothing but their phones had left every adult involved thoroughly speechless.


    Ethan had lectured them countless times. The warnings never stuck.


    Elsa maintained that this was karmic justice¡ªEthan had been stubborn and relentlessly difficult as a child, always bickering with her, and now his sons were proving to be an even greater challenge. Even so, she adored all three of her grandchildren, and her granddaughter in particr held a special ce in her heart.


    Just then, a car turned into the driveway. Kenny and Rosanna stepped out with their son, Averi Mitchell, who immediately made a beeline across the yard to join his cousins.


    When lunchtime arrived, the whole family gathered around therge dining table, the room full of ovepping conversation andughter. Elsa and Rosanna moved around each other with careful, practiced courtesy. On special asions, Rosanna always sent thoughtful gifts to Elsa; and though Elsa never involved herself in Rosanna¡¯s family affairs, she quietly sent money from time to time to ease the burden. Compared to the turbulence of earlier years, the Mitchell household had grown into something remarkably peaceful.


    And of everyone seated around that table, basking in the fullness of what their life had be, none were happier than Ethan and Brenna.


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    The End.


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