29 Darwin stood in the center of the silent room, the tension palpable as all eyes were on him. He cleared his throat, his voice steady and filled with a cold determination that chilled everyone. "As my first executive action as CEO," he began, locking eyes with each person around him to ensure h

31 Darwin sneered as Trevor spoke, knowing full well that Jessica had likely fed Trevor the story about the rented car and his supposedly flimsy finances. His hands clenched into fists at his sides as Trevor mocked him, barely containing his anger. Trevor, with a triumphant smirk, couldn't resi

33 The tension in the room surged, as everyone jostled to be in Fiona's good graces, after her revelation. Suddenly, the CEO of the hour, Fiona had transformed from a mere classmate to the pinnacle of success, her achievements casting a long shadow over past judgments. The group's fleeting focus

35 "How dare you?" Fiona hissed, her eyes blazing. "How dare any of you question Darwin's integrity or success?" Elise and Jessica exchanged nervous glances, suddenly aware they had pushed Fiona too far. Their smiles faltered, their confidence wavering under Fiona's intense gaze. Trevor, however,

37 Lisa froze as her eyes fell upon Darwin. A flurry of emotions passed across her face - surprise, irritation, jealousy. Her perfect smile faded into a tight frown. She blinked to make sure it wasn't just her imagination, then opened them and still saw Darwin. She still Couldn't believe her eyes, Darwin, of all people, was here, and not just that—he was with a woman who could only be described as stunning, far surpassing her own beauty. Jealousy prickled at her heart. How on earth did Darwin, who she had always considered somewhat of a loser, manage to catch the attention of someone as attractive as this woman? "Well, well, if it isn't Darwin," Luke said loudly, catching the attention of nearby diners. "Fancy seeing you in a place like this." Seeing Luke and Lisa together not only reignited Darwin's feelings of betrayal but also left him with a mix of sadness and anger, as old wounds were painfully reopened in their presence. Darwin took a slow breath, steeling himself for