2024-11-22 20:42:23Seeing 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.” “What?” Harris's eyes widened in disbelief. “You can't be serious.” “Yes I am, and you should know your place Harris, you're my subordinate. Going against me will only cause you trouble!” “The Havords are among the four elites of the Capital City, with their alliance, Valkoria would be transformed to heaven. Do you think I don't know what's good for the city? I've been running it for years.” Harris felt disgusted by Lucas's lies and greed. Even if he was the Mayor, he'd done nothing for the nation, everything good that came out of Valkoria was from the hard work of Norman. But there was no point arguing with them anymore, they'll realize their mistake very soon. “I just hope your greed won't cause the downfall of Valkoria.” With that he stormed out of the room. Henry was still seething with rage, how could Harris deny recognizing him? Even the manager of Grand heavens knew who he was. However he was glad that Lucas supported him. Over the past decade Valkoria’s GDP has skyrocketed, and with him as the acting Mayor, he'd take all the glory and prove to his family that he's not the loser son, and he's far more better than he's elder brother. And this would pave way for his political career. “Forget about him, Henry. Let's just enjoy our little moment. Ten minutes is already gone.” Henry nodded as they settled into the plush, oversized sofa. A sleek, leather-bound menu rested on the polished ebony table, its golden lettering subtly exuding luxury. Lana picked up the menu, her movements deliberate, as if she owned the place. Her eyes skimmed the items briefly before she set it down with a satisfied smile. “The Royal Beluga Caviar set,” she said, her tone casual, though the item was infamous for costing a fortune. “Add the 100-year-aged Iberian ham.” She turned to the waiter, who stood at attention. “I’ll also take the saffron-infused white truffle pasta and the Imperial Bird’s Nest Soup.” The waiter nodded, jotting it all down as Lana glanced at the drinks section. Without missing a beat, she added, “For drinks, we’ll start with a bottle of Louis XIII Black Pearl cognac. Make sure it’s the 100-year vintage.” Henry raised an eyebrow as she handed the menu back, her demeanor calm, almost indifferent. “This place isn’t bad,” Lana remarked, leaning back. “It’s what you’d expect from a restaurant like this. Nothing groundbreaking.” Henry suppressed a sigh, unsure whether to be impressed or concerned. “Are you sure about all this?” Lana gave him a quick glance, her expression unreadable. “Of course. I have standards, Henry.” “I mean, do you really plan to eat all that?” He asked again. “Of course, it's free, alright. So I might as well take advantage.” She chuckled. Henry rolled his eyes, as long as he wasn't going to pay, he had no problem with her orders. The dishes began arriving, each plated like an artwork. The Beluga caviar sat in a crystal bowl, glistening under the soft ambient light. The Iberian ham came on a handcrafted slate platter, garnished with edible gold leaves. Lana picked up a delicate pearl spoon and scooped a bite of the caviar without hesitation. “Not bad,” she said lightly. “Though I’ve had better in Paris.” Twenty minutes later, they were done and were about to leave the room. Lana couldn't even finish a quarter of what she ordered. They were about to exit the room, before the hotel owner —Mr. Donald walked in, he had rushed in the moment he heard the Mayor and his daughter were in his hotel. He was expecting Norman to be here too, so he'd come greet him personally. Last week, in the restaurant, his daughter suddenly collapsed without warning, foaming at the mouth. Everyone present was helpless, and even the city's most renowned doctor, whom he had urgently called, couldn't determine the cause. Just as he watched his daughter's breathing grow weaker, despairing, it was Norman, who happened to pass by, used his miraculous medical skills to save his daughter. In just one minute, he restored her breathing, and she slowly regained consciousness. A moment later, he might have lost his daughter forever. He offered Norman 90% shares of Grand heavens as gratitude, but Norman rejected it. Ever since he'd instructed his staff to take zero bills from Norman or his family anytime they pay a visit to Grand heavens. “Mayor, Miss Lana. Thanks for coming to my hotel. I hope you enjoy the food?” He said with a wide smile, he noticed Norman wasn't here but instead a strange man. However he maintained his calm expression, even if Norman wasn't here, these were still his fiance's family. “Oh, certainly we do. It was top notch. Thank you for that.” Lana nodded, still brimming with a smile. She clinged her arms to Henry's. “But we'll be leaving now, don't worry we'll patronize your business another day.” Mr. Donald gestured with a smile. “I'm glad you do. Please send my regards to Mr. Norman.” Immediately the expression in Lucas and Lana's face twisted in disdain. “I and Norman don't have anything to do with each other.” Lana said. “What'd you mean, Miss Lana?” Mr. Donald was confused but still maintained his smile. “Norman's a criminal, we broke up. And he's arrested already.” She replied, rolling her eyes. Donald's expression shot in disbelief. “Criminal? Arrested? What the hell are you talking about?”
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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
After Rejection, she crawled to my feet for forgiveness Exposing Lucas and Henry
The estate had several houses in it. So Lucas and Henry, led them to one of the houses. Lucas rang the doorbell.This had already sparked interest in the viewers, wight thousands of viewers and comments.Seeing that they were taking too long to respond, Henry rang the bell again and shouted. “Open up. We're government officials, we came for an investigation!”At this moment the tension was high, everyone curious to see the so called ‘mistress’ of Norman. Bethany bit her lips, hoping for a negative result.Meanwhile Henry kept on ranting. “Just you wait, you'll see what I'm talking about. Norman is a criminal, and today his little lies will be exposed.”Lucas also brimmed with excitement.People watching the broadcast were flooding in with comments, everyone was curious to know the truth.“What's she gonna look like?”“She's the mistress of the acting Mayor, I'm sure she's going to be stunning!”“LMFAO, can't believe Mr. Norman is a criminal.”Meanwhile Bethany and Harris stared at eac
Latest Chapter
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
