2024-11-22 20:41:08When Norman was in the police station, a black Mercedes-Benz pulled up smoothly in front of The Grand Heavens, Valkoria’s most prestigious hotel.
Known for its unmatched luxury, it was a place where only the wealthiest elites could even think about reserving a room. Tonight, however, Lana, her father Lucas, and her new boyfriend, Henry, were here to celebrate their recent success. As they stepped out, Lana tightened her grip on Henry’s arm, proudly presenting him to her father. Henry, dressed impeccably in a custom-fitted suit, looked every bit the part of a wealthy young man from Capital City. As they stepped into the lobby of The Grand Heavens, Mr. Divine, the hotel manager, approached them quickly, a wide smile breaking his typically stoic face. “Mayor Lucas, Miss Lana,” he greeted warmly. “It’s a pleasure to welcome you here. We’ve made arrangements for you in our finest suite.” Lana raised a brow, surprised. Divine had barely acknowledged her the last time she was here, and now he was practically rolling out the red carpet. “The finest suite? Would there be a reservation for the emerald room?” Lana asked. The Emerald room was the most expensive suite in Grand heavens. A single minute spent in the emerald room is equivalent to $10,000. “If that is what you want, certainly it would be available, Miss Lana. And you don't have to pay for anything, along with the meals.” Divine said, maintaining the smile. “What?” Lana was shocked. Just last month, she had tried to book the room, but it was too expensive. She even tried to use her father's influence as the Mayor to request a discount but Divine dismissed her. And now he was offering it to her for free? Lana’s delight was palpable. "I can’t believe it! Mr. Divine must recognize the Havord name," she whispered to her father, casting a proud look at Henry, who nodded modestly, acting like he was used to such treatment. “Follow me,” Divine said, leading them to the grand staircase that ascended to the upper suites. As they reached the Emerald Room, Divine pushed open the doors, revealing an opulent space bathed in deep emerald greens and shimmering blacks. A stunning chandelier sparkled above, casting a soft glow over the velvet furnishings and polished glass tables. Lana’s face lit up, clearly thrilled. “This is incredible!” she exclaimed, taking in the grandeur around them. She looked over at Henry, a satisfied smile curving her lips. “I knew I made the right decision, choosing you over that loser. Just imagine, the manager didn't charge us a dime, all because you were with us.” Lucas clasped Henry’s shoulder proudly. "The Havord influence is something remarkable. I'm glad to know our families will be connected soon." Henry, who doesn't know what was happening, also assumed it was because of him the manger decided to treat them nicely and compliment their meals. After all the Havords are very popular. "Indeed," Henry replied, straightening. "And once I’m officially part of the family, I’ll ensure we bring Capital City’s business opportunities to Valkoria.” “That's so nice of you, thank you for thinking about our city.” Right after they settled down, the door was suddenly kicked open, as deputy Mayor Harris walked in, his expression unfriendly. “Harris? What are you doing here?” Lucas was puzzled. Harris looked directly at Lucas, his tone firm. "Mayor, I need an explanation. Why was Mr. Norman arrested?" Lucas and Lana stared at each other in surprise, how did he find out so soon? Lucas adjusted his shoulder and replied. “Norman was arrested for embezzlement and bribery!” He said firmly. Harris snorted at the statement coming out from Lucas. Being close to Norman for the past two years in his office, he had witnessed how genuine Norman was. He had also joined Norman in a battle once, and witnessed how Norman defended Valkoria with his life. Multiple times Norman had given out his own salary to orphanages, he'd shown no interest in wealth. If there was one thing in the world that would be regarded as Impossible —it was Norman being accused of corruption. “Mayor, how can you say such a thing? Do you have evidence to back up your accusations?” Harris demanded. The room was quiet, he then shifted his gaze to Lana, “Miss Lana, you were the one who brought the police to his office and accused him of embezzlement. Can you show me your proof?” “W-well…I —” Lana stammered, she clearly didn't have any evidence.
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After Rejection, she crawled to my feet for forgiveness The hotel owner
Seeing that their little lies would be exposed, Lucas intervened. “We have proof, but it's not here. You can see we're in Grand heavens, is this the right time to talk about this?”Harris shook his head. Arresting Norman was a grave mistake. And he hoped this wouldn't bring the downfall of Valkoria. “Removing Norman as the acting Mayor is a big mistake, Mayor Lucas.”Henry, seeing the opportunity, chimed in. “I will be the new Mayor.”“And who are you?” Harris turned to him and scoffed, but his grave expression remained.“I am the second son of the Havord family from the Capital City. I'm sure you will know about my family, we're among the elites of—”Harris rolled his eyes and cut him short. “I clearly don't know who nor your family is, and I don't care either. And for that position you're clearly not fit for it!” He said coldly.“How dare you!” Henry gritted his teeth.Lucas was also displeased with Harris’s behavior towards Henry. “Henry is right, he'll be the next acting Mayor.”
After Rejection, she crawled to my feet for forgiveness Donald waive the bill
“He committed bribery and embezzlement. So I got him arrested.” Lana responded proudly. Donald was getting annoyed by her gestures. “How's that possible, Mr. Norman would never do—” “Well maybe he's just been pretending, hiding in the shadows. A hypocrite and a liar!” Lana interrupted Donald from completing his speech. Donald had been tolerating her disrespect because she was Norman's fiancee, but with what he was hearing he had no reason to remain nice anymore. “Mr. Norman is a good man, he'll never do such a thing!” Grand heavens was worth a billion dollars, and yet Norman bluntly refused 90% of the shares. How can such a man accept a bribe? Lana boiled in rage, she hated the way Donald was defending Norman. “You think you know him better than I do?” She gestured, her fingers pointing at Donald's chest. “He's my ex, and if I say he's a criminal then he is. He's a corrupt pest!” She exclaimed. “You're getting too arrogant. And I'm afraid, your meals are no longer complime
After Rejection, she crawled to my feet for forgiveness Arriving at the borderline
Meanwhile, at a mountainous landscape. A helicopter landed gracefully, Norman, Bethany and two other escorts stepped out. The Mountains were a little farther, crossing the territory of both nations. So technically they were still in Valkoria, about 20 ft away from Eldrida. Norman sighed deeply, staring at the mountains. About to climb up before a noise caught his attention. He heard angry voices echoing down the dirt path. He turned to see a group of seven men surrounding an elderly man. The old man was clutching an intricately carved wooden chest, its polished surface gleaming even in the dim light. “Come on, old man,” one of them sneered, his tone dripping with menace. “Hand it over. Don’t make this difficult.”“These are priceless heirlooms!” the old man protested, his voice trembling. “They belong to my family and this village. Generations of history are inside this chest! You can’t just take it!”The apparent leader of the group chuckled darkly, stepping closer. “History? W
After Rejection, she crawled to my feet for forgiveness Punishing the spies from Eldrida
The men were trembling. They were in fact a spy, sent to check if the defenses of Valkoria were as strong as before. If their defenses over this area had weakened, their next plan would be a massive invasion to take over the small land and extend their territory. But they dared not leak their plans to the Executioner, he's the last person that needed to know about this. Trembling, the leader spoke. “Please, Executioner. We have no intentions to kill anyone, I only made that statement to intimidate. Please have mercy.” The leader trembled, his lips twitching as he struggled to come up with an excuse. “N-no one sent us, Executioner. We’re just thieves. We meant no harm.” Norman’s gaze pierced him, unflinching. “Thieves? You dare lie to my face?” The leader lowered his head further, sweat dripping down his face. “P-please, Executioner. We didn’t mean to hurt anyone. We’ll leave and never return. Spare us!” Norman’s expression darkened. He already knew the truth—these men w
After Rejection, she crawled to my feet for forgiveness Escorts from the president of Eldrida
Norman trudged up the mountain, through the knee-deep snow, his boots crunching against the frozen crystals, the chilled air sharp with each breath. He neared the summit where his mentor's grave stood, marked only by a single stone. Up here, untouched by the world below, it felt as if time had paused, leaving only the wind and the silent snowfall. He finally reached the grave and knelt, brushing fresh snow off the stone’s rough surface. "It’s done," he said, his voice low but steady. "I kept my promise to you. Valkoria is at peace." The wind howled around him, but he barely felt it, his gaze fixed on the stone. He thought of his mentor’s unwavering guidance, the countless battles fought together. His master had taught him everything he knew. And his last wish was for Norman to remain good, and bring peace to Valkoria. "I'm tired," he admitted, almost to himself. "And I think... I think I’ve done enough.” Norman had fulfilled that promise, for two years he had done what many
After Rejection, she crawled to my feet for forgiveness Evidence of Norman's corruption
Norman stepped inside, taking in the changes, though his expression remained blank. He sat on the bed without a word. “How do you like it?” Bethany asked, hoping for a response. “Is there anything else you might need?” Norman barely acknowledged her, giving a small, indifferent nod. He cared less about the luxuries she added in the cell, as he had lost interest in material things a long time ago. To him they were nothing but distractions. Seeing his mood, Bethany nodded and walked out of the cell. She dared not risk offending him. Immediately she was out, she dialed on her phone and called deputy Mayor — Mr. Harris. “Hello Chief.” He picked up almost immediately. “Mr. Harris, have you met with the mayor? What did you find out?” she asked impatiently. “I did, but he didn't give me any evidence regarding the accusations. And he seems to be unmoved by Mr. Norman's arrest, not even his daughter, Lana.” Harris said, sounding disappointed. “What? Those bastards, do they real
After Rejection, she crawled to my feet for forgiveness Norman's accusations
Even the Mayor couldn't afford to buy this type of mansion. How on earth would Norman, a mere acting Mayor own such a property? It only makes sense that Norman was in fact embezzling funds. “What? These are all expensive mansions, how can Norman own all these properties? And in Crestview hills?” Shockwaves rippled through Lana's mind. Crestview Hills, a neighborhood where the city's elite reside. The thought of him living among mansions and manicured lawns was jarring. "Crestview Hills? You can't be serious. How did you...?" she stuttered, her eyes wide with disbelief. “I'm as shocked as you, Lana. But that's the truth. And not only that, I found out some ladies are living inside the mansion too.” Lucas said further. Lana frown deepened, “Some ladies?!” Her shock was replaced with anger, and a hint of jealousy. “Has that trash been cheating on me?” Her urge to completely expose him increased. “So what do we do now, Mr. Lucas?” Henry asked. “This is enough evidence we need to b
After Rejection, she crawled to my feet for forgiveness Arriving at Crestview Hills
Bethany refused to believe this, maybe he just said that because be didn't want to come out of prison. Norman hadn't been making any effort to free himself, so maybe he just agreed to this.She couldn't take Norman's words, so she decided to investigate for herself.Bethany rushed down to her office, and was surprised at the number of people waiting for her.Amongst them was, Lucas, Harris and other high officials, these were all the people that had worked in office with Norman. He hasn't been in office for some days, and then they found out he was arrested for embezzlement, surprised they all rushed down to the station to confirm themselves.“Good thing you're here, Chief Bethany.” Lucas said with a grin.Bethany's mood changed the moment she saw Lucas, she has had an unimaginable hatred for him after his accusations of Norman.She glared at him. "What proof do you have that Norman is guilty of any crime?"Others in the room quickly chimed in, their voices rising."Yes, Mayor, let's
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Chapter 23
Lucas gritted his teeth, he's been trying all day to convince the officials that Norman's accusations were true. but he's yet to provide solid evidence making his claim hard for anyone to believe. Another official added, “Norman’s absence is already causing unrest. If we don’t handle this properly, the public outcry could escalate into something worse.” Lucas leaned back in his chair, eyes narrowing as he listened. His jaw tightened, his lips forming a thin line. “Are you all implying that this city can’t function without one man?” he snapped, his voice cold and sharp. “We’re not implying anything,” the first official replied, clearly undeterred. “We’re stating facts. Norman’s influence runs deep. He’s respected by the people and feared by the criminals. Without him, the city loses its backbone.” Another chimed in, their tone bordering on a warning. “The longer you keep him detained, the more likely we are to face protests, or worse. You should release him immediately.” The
Chapter 22
Lucas gritted his teeth, he's been trying all day to convince the officials that Norman's accusations were true. but he's yet to provide solid evidence making his claim hard for anyone to believe. Another official added, “Norman’s absence is already causing unrest. If we don’t handle this properly, the public outcry could escalate into something worse.” Lucas leaned back in his chair, eyes narrowing as he listened. His jaw tightened, his lips forming a thin line. “Are you all implying that this city can’t function without one man?” he snapped, his voice cold and sharp. “We’re not implying anything,” the first official replied, clearly undeterred. “We’re stating facts. Norman’s influence runs deep. He’s respected by the people and feared by the criminals. Without him, the city loses its backbone.” Another chimed in, their tone bordering on a warning. “The longer you keep him detained, the more likely we are to face protests, or worse. You should release him immediately.” The
Chapter 21
Lucas gritted his teeth, he's been trying all day to convince the officials that Norman's accusations were true. but he's yet to provide solid evidence making his claim hard for anyone to believe. Another official added, “Norman’s absence is already causing unrest. If we don’t handle this properly, the public outcry could escalate into something worse.” Lucas leaned back in his chair, eyes narrowing as he listened. His jaw tightened, his lips forming a thin line. “Are you all implying that this city can’t function without one man?” he snapped, his voice cold and sharp. “We’re not implying anything,” the first official replied, clearly undeterred. “We’re stating facts. Norman’s influence runs deep. He’s respected by the people and feared by the criminals. Without him, the city loses its backbone.” Another chimed in, their tone bordering on a warning. “The longer you keep him detained, the more likely we are to face protests, or worse. You should release him immediately.” The
Chapter 20
Lucas gritted his teeth, he's been trying all day to convince the officials that Norman's accusations were true. but he's yet to provide solid evidence making his claim hard for anyone to believe. Another official added, “Norman’s absence is already causing unrest. If we don’t handle this properly, the public outcry could escalate into something worse.” Lucas leaned back in his chair, eyes narrowing as he listened. His jaw tightened, his lips forming a thin line. “Are you all implying that this city can’t function without one man?” he snapped, his voice cold and sharp. “We’re not implying anything,” the first official replied, clearly undeterred. “We’re stating facts. Norman’s influence runs deep. He’s respected by the people and feared by the criminals. Without him, the city loses its backbone.” Another chimed in, their tone bordering on a warning. “The longer you keep him detained, the more likely we are to face protests, or worse. You should release him immediately.” The
Chapter 19
Lucas gritted his teeth, he's been trying all day to convince the officials that Norman's accusations were true. but he's yet to provide solid evidence making his claim hard for anyone to believe. Another official added, “Norman’s absence is already causing unrest. If we don’t handle this properly, the public outcry could escalate into something worse.” Lucas leaned back in his chair, eyes narrowing as he listened. His jaw tightened, his lips forming a thin line. “Are you all implying that this city can’t function without one man?” he snapped, his voice cold and sharp. “We’re not implying anything,” the first official replied, clearly undeterred. “We’re stating facts. Norman’s influence runs deep. He’s respected by the people and feared by the criminals. Without him, the city loses its backbone.” Another chimed in, their tone bordering on a warning. “The longer you keep him detained, the more likely we are to face protests, or worse. You should release him immediately.” The
Chapter 18
Lucas gritted his teeth, he's been trying all day to convince the officials that Norman's accusations were true. but he's yet to provide solid evidence making his claim hard for anyone to believe. Another official added, “Norman’s absence is already causing unrest. If we don’t handle this properly, the public outcry could escalate into something worse.” Lucas leaned back in his chair, eyes narrowing as he listened. His jaw tightened, his lips forming a thin line. “Are you all implying that this city can’t function without one man?” he snapped, his voice cold and sharp. “We’re not implying anything,” the first official replied, clearly undeterred. “We’re stating facts. Norman’s influence runs deep. He’s respected by the people and feared by the criminals. Without him, the city loses its backbone.” Another chimed in, their tone bordering on a warning. “The longer you keep him detained, the more likely we are to face protests, or worse. You should release him immediately.” The room
Chapter 17
Lucas frowned, he knew exactly why they were here. He was about to speak before Henry spoke abruptly. “If this is about Norman's case, he's still guilty, and you don't have to worry we're getting the evidence.” He said with disdain. Harris gritted his teeth as he glared at Henry. “I wasn't talking to you Mr. Havord, and you aren't the acting Mayor yet, don't act like one.” The words were like arrows, it shattered Henry's pride, he was about to speak but Lucas gestured for him to halt. “Let's go to the general office to discuss this.” He said to the other officials and they all head to a much larger office. **** One official started, “Norman’s absence is already causing unrest. If we don’t handle this properly, the public outcry could escalate into something worse.” Lucas leaned back in his chair, eyes narrowing as he listened. His jaw tightened, his lips forming a thin line. “Are you all implying that this city can’t function without one man?” he snapped, his voice cold and sha
Chapter 16
At Lucas's office Lucas leaned back in his leather chair, his hands massaging the temple of his head. After going through the annual cost Norman spends to provide for the families of fallen heroes, he still had doubts if these were legit. The expenses were so high, Henry and Lana was also present in the office, both as shocked as Lucas. “This… This is insane,” Henry finally spat, gesturing at the screen. “We’re expected to pay how much to these families every year?” Lucas leaned forward, clasping his hands. “Seventy-point-eight million. That’s what Norman had allocated annually. Seventy. Point. Eight. Million. For widows and orphans.” His voice dripped with contempt as he emphasized each word. It was unbelievable. “Ridiculous,” Lana chimed in, leaning forward with a cold smile. “Why should their sob stories drain our city’s coffers? Their husbands and fathers chose the line of duty. They knew the risks.” Henry turned, his anger palpable. “They act like the city owes them for etern
Return of the Scorpion
Henry's crew and the reporters were still packing up their things to leave, before Lucas leaned in, his voice low and firm. "You’ve got your orders. Clear them out. Now!"Henry nodded, jaw tightening as he turned to his crew. "Wrap it up. Everyone out, quickly."The crew fastened up, exchanging uneasy glances. Cameras were hastily folded away, and the reporters shuffled backward.“Norman doesn’t deserve this!” someone shouted from the crowd.“What evidence do they even have?” another voice chimed in, trembling with anger.“This is abuse of power, the Mayor is irresponsible!”Bethany stood rooted, her fists clenched at her sides. She stepped forward as the reporters disappeared into the distance. “Mr. Havord, this has gone too far,” she said, her voice steady but sharp. “Norman hasn’t done anything wrong. You know that as well as I do.”Henry spun on his heel, his face clouded with irritation. “Chief Bethany, don’t start. If he’s innocent, where’s the proof? Why hasn’t anyone come for
