Knock, knock! There was a knock on the door. Jonathan opened it to find Daisy standing outside. "Are you heading out?" Daisy asked, noticing his attire. Jonathan nodded: "I have a dinner appointment tonight." Without divulging further details — mere words could hardly encapsulate the complexity of the situation — Jonathan moved on. "Oh, I was about to ask you out for dinner! But if you've made plans, nevermind then." Daisy said, a note of disappointment in her voice. "Right, I'll come by tomorrow morning. We can attend the auction together." Jonathan offered, reminding himself of the crucial evening ahead. He had to help Gladys navigate through her troubles and couldn't afford to drag Daisy into it. "Tomorrow?" Daisy seemed hesitant: "Or, or maybe we shouldn't go?" "Are you busy or you don't want to go?" Jonathan questioned, puzzled. Daisy looked awkward as she gritted her teeth: "I... I find it very upsetting!" The prospect of witnessing her home being auctioned off and sol
Jonathan advised Gladys to refrain from worries or actions for the moment and to stay home awaiting news. Whether there would be success or not, only the upcoming days would reveal. As long as his remedy worked, they would have a chance to convince the Wise family to vindicate Gladys. The following day, Jonathan woke early and knocked on Daisy's door. The pair dressed, then ate breakfast before catching a ride to the auction. Although Joel alone was conducting this estate auction, by hiring a dedicated auction house for the event, every aspect would be taken care of. By the time Jonathan and Daisy arrived, there were seven or eight lines of people in the auction hall, appearing to be more than thirty in number. This auction was only for the real estate. Thus, most who attended were drawn by this particular estate. Daisy's estate had a rich history, having stood for nearly thirty years. This gave it a prime location advantage, making it a lucrative buy whether kept or resold at
Jonathan flashed a reassuring smile at Daisy, saying: "Miss Wang, for you this house might just be an item that brings you some profit. But it holds the entirety of my childhood memories, so its significance is different". "If I have set a price that makes you see no more profit, maybe you could consider doing me a favour and let me have it!" "If Miss Wang is still upset, I can even pay you ten million out of my pocket as compensation!" Jonathan's remarks were more than polite. Of course, he said this because he was afraid that Sloane would lose her temper and go all out, regardless of the price. In that case, he'd rather compromise and add a little more money to end it. Though his account was not short of funds, it did not mean he could be reckless. A few hundred million was manageable, but billions would be a matter of national concern! "Ha ha, alright then, for your sake!" Sloane gave a cold laugh before standing up and storming off. She would only take the ten million com
"Even if you don't cure him, you'll receive a significant consultation fee, at least twenty million. Our family will pay it.” Carnelian brought up the matter of compensation again. After all, this was a question of benefits. From her veiled words, it could be deduced that Carnelian was acting on behalf of Leonard, hence her allusion to the promise made by the Kyle family. "I can do the checkup, but I have a condition.” Jonathan replied indifferently. "Just say it.” Carnelian responded nonchalantly. Truthfully, if Carnelian was representing the Kyle family to meet Jonathan, his preferences no longer mattered; he would have to go regardless. This wasn't coercion but a simple fact. However, if they could persuade Jonathan to examine Brian willingly, it would be more desirable than him attending in resentment. The family would surely agree if his request weren't unreasonable. "Weren't ordinary doctor may not suffice, but even top-tier hospitals failed to cure him. Hence the utmost
Nathan was a crownless king of the Northern military region, poised to become the supreme commander. How could his fighter jet have been so effortlessly rigged with explosives? This incident took place over two decades ago, yet certain aspects remain eerily peculiar. There's no doubt a grand conspiracy lurking beneath. And Brian, the patriarch of the Wang family and Nathan's biological father, certainly must be privy to the truth of what transpired. But Jonathan knew he couldn't pry. For doing so would risk exposing his identity. Logically speaking, since Brian was Jonathan's paternal grandfather, he should be forthright with him. Yet Jonathan feared that Nathan's death might have been tied to Brian. It's even possible that he masterminded it. Once interests are at stake, even familial bonds can fray. The Wangs, being a premier family in the nation, meant that kinship ties were always tenuous. "Our generation has heard much of Nathan's legacy. But who could've foreseen the i
Jonathan said: “Reschedule your meeting. Tonight, come with me to see Charles's grandfather." Gladys gripped her handbag tighter, her eyes widening: “You mean the elder Mr. Wise?" In New York's establishment, the older one gets, the more valuable they become. Many older adults worried they couldn't reach high positions when they were in power, but those who had been in the establishment for decades had extensive networks and were significant players. Especially someone as renowned as the elder Mr. Wise. Moreover, Aubrey had started this whole mess. If she could meet the elder, Mr. Wise, she could explain everything clearly. He could quickly restore her innocence if he didn't favor his grandson. Gladys hadn't expected Jonathan to arrange a meeting with such an influential figure for her sake! "Okay, I'll call my manager." Without hesitation, Gladys immediately pulled out her phone and called her manager. Even if they managed to meet with Star's senior manager, it wasn't sure h
After Aubrey ushered them out, he lit a cigarette, took a deep drag, and declared: “Jonathan, I won't forget your face!" The implications of such a statement were far from pleasant. Yet, Jonathan, an open-minded man, retained his composed demeanor and responded with a smile: “To be remembered by Master Aubrey is my fortune. But I hope you won't forget to absolve Gladys either." "Humph, even if I wanted to, I couldn't forget!" Charles grumbled coldly. Despite his resentment towards Jonathan, the task was assigned by his grandfather, and he had no choice but to comply. "Good then." Jonathan smiled and began to stride forward, casually saying: “Master Wise, you may return. There's no need to see me off." Jonathan harbored no expectations of Aubrey's kindness when he brought the matter to Grandfather Baldwin. He even anticipated offending Charles. But achieving one's goal without offending anyone was practically impossible. There was only sometimes a solution that pleased all parties
At this point, Kieran, with his beer belly, had finished his bath, wrapped a white towel around his waist, lying on the bed with his legs crossed and a cigar in his mouth. He was picturing Gladys's beautiful face and hot body, and he couldn't help but feel excited. "This woman is truly captivating!" Kieran chuckled wickedly to himself. As for the possibility of Gladys not coming, he hadn't considered it at all. The fame of Gladys had already faded. If he added another devastating blow, her peaceful exit from the entertainment industry would be a tough challenge. Unless Gladys wanted to destroy herself, she would undoubtedly have to serve him tonight! Thinking about this, Kieran couldn't help but feel triumphant. Although not bring glory and riches, his position in Star company allowed him to "taste" many female stars. Countless public goddesses had become his playthings. Every time he thought about it, he felt an immense excitement. Knock, knock! A knock on the door sounded
At the Moonlight company's neighboring cafe. Jonathan and Juliette sat secluded in a dim corner. Juliette, shedding her pretense, took a sip of coffee before saying: "I've arranged to dine with Feagan tonight. What's our next move?" "How do you find Feagan?" Jonathan inquired earnestly. "Handsome, even more than you. And oozing charisma! If I were Adela, I'd choose him and kick you to the curb." Juliette quipped. Jonathan: "..." "Heh, just teasing!" Seeing Jonathan's knitted brows, Juliette laughed: "But seriously, Feagan seems like another wolf in sheep's clothing. He's no match for you! I entered his office and he stared at me for minutes. I've seen that type of gaze in Crystal Cove all too often. He's not a catch." "You've got the right hunch. Feagan is no pillar to lean on. If your old friend is by his side, she's bound to regret it." Hearing this, Jonathan hesitated: "Tonight, carry a mini-camera. Entice him to reveal his true colors. If you succeed, make a swift exit."
Katherine swiftly dismissed with a flick of her hand, her face etched with profound disagreement. "How can you suggest such a thing? If in the next two years you don't marry her and by some chance you decide to part ways with my dear Juliette, then what?" "If such were to occur, you would've squandered the best years of her youth! Absolutely not! It cannot be so." "Yet, for now, Juliette and I are not in a position to wed." Jonathan feigned discomfort, an aura of unease surrounding him. In a sudden whisper, Katherine interjected: "Even if marriage isn't immediate, there must be some assurance you can provide, mustn't there?" At this, both Andres and Wyatt, father and son, shifted their eager gazes toward Jonathan. Juliette inwardly smirked, thinking to herself, 'Mother is starting her games again.' It was clear the reason her parents were here tonight was solely for this imminent matter. They hadn't raised a daughter, but rather, it seemed, a mere commodity. "What assurance d
Once Tryphena was out of earshot, Juliette burst into giggles: "So Jonathan, that beauty is really your sister-in-law? Are you some kind of beast?" Of course, Juliette was jesting. Initially, she'd assumed the beauty Jonathan had turned down was just a stranger, and his mention of her being his brother's girlfriend was surely playful. But who was she kidding? Being a seasoned veteran in Crystal Cove' entertainment industry, Juliette had encountered countless personalities. Tryphena posed no threat. A few words were all it took to send her packing, all while maintaining her own clandestine identity. "Let's drop it. Since we've met, let's go somewhere." Jonathan said, steering the conversation away from Tryphena. "Agreed." Juliette cheerfully responded. As they strolled through the streets, their charisma was undeniable. The frequency with which heads turned to steal glances was remarkable. "How long are you staying in Elite Summit this time?" Juliette inquired with genuine interes
"It's rare to run into familiar faces in Elite Summit." Tryphena mused, her words a flurry of excitement: "Would you join me for dinner tonight? If you're busy, tomorrow is fine too. Let's exchange numbers and connect on social media first!" Although initially hesitant, Jonathan found himself swayed by the genuine warmth in her eyes: "Tonight it is." With contact details exchanged and plans set, the two bid each other a temporary farewell. That very evening, as the city's lights began to shimmer, Jonathan received an investigation update from Roger. Adela was seeing someone. Moonlight Corp, where she worked in Elite Summit, was primarily managed by her and Deputy CEO Vera. However, recently, a charismatic new CEO named Feagan William, reputedly a returnee from overseas studies and rumored to be the scion of some top executive from M & N, took the helm. Since Feagan's arrival, he seemed relentlessly smitten by Adela. He often accompanied her to business outings and ensured she ret
After a while, Jonathan broke the ice, initiating a topic of discussion. Moonlight, Adela's brainchild, was now the talk of the town. "Our autumn collection has been a great success, both in terms of sales and profits." Adela began: "But to claim the top spot might be premature. Despite the backing of renowned domestic and international fashion houses like Wind & Fire and M & N, we can't be overly confident in becoming the flagbearer of our nation's fashion industry." "We'll truly know our standing after assessing the sales for the next three seasons. Only then can we truly earn national recognition." Truth be told, Adela was not overly concerned about Moonlight's position or its future; her worries had nearly evaporated. But she shared this perspective nonetheless. Jonathan silently rejoiced, noting Adela's growth and maturity. She was no longer the fishmonger he once knew from the market; she had blossomed into a successful businesswoman. In a time not so distant, Adela would,
Tommy shook his head, his words hastening to fill the air between them: "My sister-in-law is doing well; she's thriving in her job. Not too long ago, she even moved to a new house." “But when I visited Curtis last, there was a man at her place.” Tommy, flustered and scrambling for words, replied: "Oh, he must've been just a business partner, discussing some contracts with my sister-in-law. Nothing more.” Jonathan's face darkened in thought. A man? From what he knew about Adela, she would never entertain business at her private residence. Could it be? Had Adela found someone? It was possible. After all, when he had left Elite Summit, she had suggested they take a year apart. This perhaps hinted that their time together might eventually come to an end. Though Jonathan's relationship with Adela had blurred past friendship, their bond, in essence, was only maintained by Curtis. They never really became lovers. So, it was perfectly normal for Adela to have a boyfriend. Yet, the very th
Mammon's lips curled into a gentle smile: "If gratitude is to be given, direct it to Jonathan. While Mr. Moore and I might be acquaintances, our bond isn't as profound. Had it not been for Jonathan's plea, the Moores wouldn’t have found me in their corner." "Yes, indeed!" "Now, Mr. Moore, we must expedite matters. The sooner we seal the agreement, the better." "Let us restart the project and alleviate our shared anxieties." Business attended to, Mammon shared a few parting words before departing in the company of Jonathan. Their venture could truly be described as a fruitful one. Barring unforeseen tribulations, the peril that threatened the Moore family was seemingly defused. Their reputation, however, was something they'd have to mend on their own. Considering their current scenario, evading a declaration of bankruptcy due to piled debts was almost a miracle in itself. To hope for more would be sheer fantasy. All agreements were set in stone. Soon, Mammon would dispatch his
"Come now! Don't be like that! We've been childhood playmates, remember? Regardless of circumstances, our bond persists." Wynstan responded, pouring two glasses of wine with an exaggerated flourish. "This is a vintage from my personal collection. A true delight for the palate. Try it." Given there were just the two of them, the spread wasn't overly grand. Yet, countless esteemed businessmen from Crystal Cove would give an arm and a leg to be part of this dinner. However, to Nora, the invitation felt more burdensome than honorary. A toast always called for full glasses. And business often demanded the libations flow freely. Seeing Nora's thoughtful gaze, Wynstan chuckled: "Finding my wine lacking, are we? I suppose, being the magnate you now are, this might not match your status." Truth be told, the wine wasn't cheap, retailing at over a thousand. Yet to Nora, it was mere triviality. The wine wasn't the issue. Even if Wynstan had offered a commonplace wine worth mere tens, its
Jonathan remained silent, not swayed by Dieter's hollow compliments. For Jonathan knew, of all places, Elite Summit was hardly a theater of illustrious figures. Were it Crystal Cove, perhaps he might've begrudgingly conceded the point. But Elite Summit? What did it offer? Still, empty flattery was better than none; it lent a certain sweetness to the air. "Jonathan, there's a favor I'd like to ask of you." Dieter finally disclosed his intentions. Jonathan wasn't surprised. The Moore family was in a state of disarray, teetering on the brink of bankruptcy. Why else would Dieter squander an evening over dinner with him if not to seek some favor? "Speak, sir." Jonathan invited, his voice tinged with resignation. Though he had stretched himself thin helping the Moores, he couldn't guarantee the extent of the impact he could make. "In recent days, I've tallied up the debts of the Moore Corporation. The sum exceeds 65 billion." Dieter elaborated: "We've acquired raw materials for project