Harmony asked, “Chloe, what exactly is your relationship with Atlas?”Her sudden question didn’t surprise me. It was clear she wanted to uncover my connection with Atlas.Stella had stirred Harmony’s anxiety, but this impulsive move was entirely hers. Harmony was not stupid, but she was a klutz. Her question showed she doubted Stella’s manipulation.Teasingly, I asked, “What do you think our relationship is?”I avoided her question, knowing that provoking her was the only way to get her to stand up to Stella. I had promised Lauren that she could witness this drama unfold.Then, I timidly said, “I never said he’s my boyfriend. I don’t have the guts for that!” Maybe my words reassured Harmony, or perhaps it was because I didn’t confirm my relationship with Atlas. Either way, her expression relaxed.“I only wanted to tell you about Atlas’s condition,” Harmony stammered, her confidence waning. “I heard that he’s been discharged and is back home.”I wasn’t surprised. After all, I

The great mood I had vanished, and I couldn’t escape this strange feeling all afternoon. It felt like I got sucked into a black hole. Everything seemed calm on the surface, but I had no idea how many things were linked to me.In the afternoon, I received another invitation, this time from Matthew. He was throwing a big celebration for his new baby, almost as if he wanted the entire city to know he had a son now.He called me as soon as I got the invitation, his voice filled with pride.“Chlo, you’ve seen the invitation, haven’t you? You’ve got to be there. After all, this is a big event for the Murphy family. I finally have a son, haha! And bring your daughter along!”“Yeah, this could be a chance to combine it with your wedding for a double celebration,” I said.“Haha! Chlo, thank you for the suggestion. Everything’s in the works. We’re having a grand wedding!” He was trying to provoke me.I knew he was doing it on purpose. He felt invincible now, and taking a dig at me was easy

Nick kept it brief on the phone, stressing the importance of attending the cocktail party and awaiting further instructions from him.I didn’t press for details and assured him I’d be there. Nick was clearly using this party to arrange a meeting with Atlas.Sure enough, I spotted Nick at the reception, with Stella by his side. He was introducing her to other high-level executives from different companies.After all, Nick was the head honcho of the Torado headquarters, so his presence was expected. As the ATL Empire representative, Stella demonstrated the company’s importance. With these two representing the ATL Empire, they made their presence known.It was unspoken knowledge that Atlas was indisposed because of the car accident. Everyone was wondering how serious his injuries were.All the hushed conversations at the reception revolved around this. I mingled in the crowd and exchanged pleasantries with other CEOs. Meanwhile, I watched Nick closely, afraid to miss his instructio

I saw something flash in Stella’s eyes, which confirmed they were related to what happened to Kennedy.Just then, I noticed Nick giving me a signal. I excused myself to greet him and approached with a smile. After a few pleasantries, Nick quietly informed me, "The car is waiting outside. I can only stall them for forty minutes. You must leave Pleca Park within that time."I nodded and observed Stella before turning to head outside. However, Atticus and another man walked toward me with clear intentions to greet me.I cursed my luck while he waved to me from a distance. I smiled and approached before saying, “Mr. Atticus, did you just arrive?”“Ms. Chloe, let me introduce you to my friend. This is Bryan Cohen, the CEO of Alliance Corporation,” Atticus then smiled at his friend, “Bryan, this is Ms. Chloe Hartz, the owner of Tanum Corporation.Bryan extended his hand to me, and I politely shook it. He looked like a dashing young man, about the same age as Atticus. However, the former

I entered the other car, where a refined gentleman awaited. He nodded at me but said nothing. Then, he started the car and drove toward Pleca Park.My nervousness intensified as the moment of truth neared. I even intertwined my hands tightly."Don't be nervous. Just relax." The doctor seemed to notice my anxiety and tried to calm me. "Just follow my lead, don't speak, and cooperate with me."When we arrived at Pleca Park, the familiar ornate gate remained closed, just like when I visited two days ago.However, the gate slowly opened as our car approached. We entered smoothly, and the gate closed behind us. There was no sign of guards or heightened security at the entrance. Still, I knew the security measures were more rigorous than they appeared.When we reached the house, the doctor instructed, "Stay close and don't speak. Just relax."I nodded, my hands sweaty. When I realized I was getting closer to Atlas, my heart pounded. Soon, the doctor gestured for me to get out of the ca