2024-12-12 14:40:29"Don't worry, my legacy is safe and secure in his hands," Robert said, and James grabbed the remote, tuning to another channel. The same live broadcast was also being broadcast on countless other channels, even on a Channel that is exclusively for kids.
James was forced to watch it till the very end. Soon after, he ordered enough food that he could eat. He grabbed a bottle of red wine and opened it before taking a sip. Just a week ago, he was struggling to make $20 a week and was constantly insulted by his ex-wife and 'ex' in-laws. He never imagined that such a blessing would come his way, not even in his next life. But here he was. James sighed as he removed his clothes and wrapped a white towel around his waist. He walked to the bathroom and took a warm shower. After drying himself off, he slipped into his pajamas. As he lay on his bed, he couldn't quite understand why he felt the way he did, but he knew that tomorrow would be a long day for him and the beginning of his story. The next morning~ James flinched and squinted his eyes, stirring awake when he felt a bright light from the sun hit his tired eyes. A groan escaped his lips as he lifted his fist to his eyes, rubbing it gently to soothe the sting. "Damn it! I thought I pulled down the curtains!" James thought inwardly. James stirred from a deep slumber, his eyelids heavy as he blinked them open. Gradually, his blurry vision began to sharpen, revealing the figure of a woman standing just a few feet away. A woman? James closed his eyes once again to erase the illusion he was starting to see. James was a faithful man and he had never thought of bringing another woman into his home, talk more of having an affair with her. So imagine james' expression and countenance after he had reopened his eyes to see a strange woman standing beside his window, dressed in a suit with her arms crossed. Her presence was striking, framed by the soft glow of the morning light streaming through the window. She had long, wavy hair that cascaded over her shoulders and a pair of glasses that perched on the bridge of her nose. "Who are you?" James asked in utter confusion. How did this beautiful young woman, dressed in a prim and proper manner appear in his room? The woman crossed her arms, her hips moving to the side as she sent a piercing cold glare his way. “My name is Bella Rosewood Harthone, the personal assistant of Mr. Robert Williams" Bella spoke, pointing at the tag fixed neatly at the right side of her black suit. "From now on, I will be your assistant. Not only would I be working under you in the office and other business places, but my job also includes ensuring that you are up and prepared for work on or before 9 am," Bella spoke in a business-like tune while staring at her wristwatch. It was 9:16 am and Bella was hella pissed. James could feel it; this woman was gonna be very difficult. "Oh. Nice to meet you, my name is James...." James trailed off on his sentence, "James Robert Williams." James stood up from the bed, approached the woman, and extended his hand for a handshake. "I know. Nice doing business with you" Bella said as she accepted his outstretched hand, "And please don't ever leave your door open at night, you might not be lucky next time" James thought for a moment, distracted by Bella's constant arguing. He walked to the bathroom to take a bath. After his bath, he put on a simple outfit: a singlet and boxers. Feeling refreshed, he went to his wardrobe to choose his clothes. He reached for a blue shirt and dark trousers, but before he could grab them, Bella pulled him over to the bed and made him sit down. Bella looked at him closely, studying his face. After a moment, she said, "Hmmm, you're not bad-looking." Then she added, "But I think it's time for a haircut and a beard trim." James touched his beard with his fingers, realizing how unkempt it had become. Bella moved toward a black suitcase that was lying on top of his small table. Since when did she bring a suitcase in? Bella opened it after inputting a four-digit code then she pulled out a clipper, a shaving Bic, and an aftershave cream. "What kind of hairstyle do you like?" Bella asked as she brushed the sharp edge of the clipper with a brush to remove any excess dust before turning it on. "Any hairstyle you think would look good on me is fine, just don't shave all my hair off or make me go half-bald." James retorted. "Hmph! I am a woman with countless talents and hairstyling is just one of them" Bella said proudly, "There is no way I could make a mistake" "Alright, Alright. Just do your thing" James sighed. Bella plugged in the clipper, the soft hum filling the quiet room as she prepared to style his hair. With focus, she assessed the texture and length before beginning. She expertly maneuvered it through his hair, creating clean lines and even hair length. And after a few minutes, she was done. She unplugged the clipper and cleaned it before placing it back inside her suitcase. "Tadaa! Told you I was good at this" Bella smiled, moving back a bit to admire her work. James opened his camera and switched to selfie mode to admire his new haircut. Bella had given him a buzz cut that outlined his face perfectly, making him look even more handsome than before. James decided to trim his beard as well, doing it himself. He made sure to leave a decent amount of hair behind before putting down the razor. "Put on this gray suit," Bella instructed, indicating a suit she had personally picked for him. And when he did, she helped him to fix his tie.
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Counterattack Of The Useless Son-in-law Chapter seven
James stepped out of his apartment. The tailored gray suit Bella had chosen fit him like a glove, exuding a confidence he didn’t quite feel yet. The new haircut and freshly trimmed beard transformed him into someone almost unrecognizable to his former self—a man who looked like he belonged in the world of billion-dollar deals.Bella, waiting beside a sleek black car, held open the door for him. "Let’s not waste any more time. The board meeting starts in less than an hour, and we need to get you prepped."James slid into the back seat, glancing at the folder Bella handed him. Inside were detailed profiles of the board members of XY Corps and a schedule of the day’s meetings.James flipped through the pages and frowned. "So, I just go in there, smile, and pretend I know what I’m doing?"Bella leaned against the doorframe, a sly grin on her face. "Pretty much. Just don’t smile too much—you might scare them. They’re not used to smiles and all that in corporate life."James snorted. "Great
Counterattack Of The Useless Son-in-law Chapter eight
(After the Meeting) The board eventually ended, leaving James and Bella alone in the room. James exhaled deeply, running a hand through his hair. “That was... intense.” “You handled it well,” Bella said, handing him a bottle of water. “I am sure this would shut them up for now.” James took a sip. “Let them try. I didn’t come this far to be intimidated.” Bella’s phone buzzed, and she glanced at the screen. “Robert wants to meet with you this evening. He said something about a personal matter.” James frowned. “Any idea what it’s about?” She shook her head. “He didn’t say, but it sounded important.” --- Later That Evening James arrived at Robert’s mansion. The grandeur of the estate was magnificent and breathtaking. Robert greeted him in the study, a glass of whiskey in hand. “Bella told me about the meeting,” Robert said, gesturing to a chair. “You handled yourself better than I expected.” “Thanks,” James replied, sitting down. Robert chuckled, his expression turn
Counterattack Of The Useless Son-in-law Chapter nine
Soon, the following week began, and James dedicated half of it to working on and implementing new policies that he believed would lift the company to greater heights. He spent several days visiting various businesses, including the Luna Vista Lodge, the country’s most prestigious hotel, along with museums, cinemas, and shopping malls—all of which he now owned.These places were impressive, each costing an immense fortune. Bella felt it was important for James to visit the businesses to assert his presence as the new owner and meet the managers appointed by his father.By Tuesday morning, James had not yet visited even half of the businesses. Glancing at his wristwatch, he noted the time: 10:27 AM. Lillian’s wedding ceremony was about to take place.Standing in front of the mirror, he adjusted his limited-edition Cavalier Vanquish II suit, its 4-carat diamond buttons and African platinum trim reflecting the light. He hesitated when Bella first revealed the suit’s price, but now he wore
Counterattack Of The Useless Son-in-law Chapter Ten
Seeing that things weren't going as planned, she stomped her foot on the ground lightly before walking past them. The guests present mocked Lilian while whispering to each other from time to time. Lilian had never felt so embarrassed her whole life. She clenched her fist, her teeth gritted in anger as she heard the words of a woman who'd always tried to curry favor with her. “Don't mind the words of a spineless woman who lacks self-respect. She's always been so full of herself; always looking down on people and acting overly pompous” Others chimed in, mocking Lilian in the most gruesome way. The same people who were all over her the other day, trying to get business deals and establish a connection with the Evangeline family through her. The same people suddenly switched allegiance and began fawning over Bella. "I agree. She is self-centered and full of herself. I wouldn't be surprised if she has been unfaithful to Bill, her fiancé, just as she may have been with her Ex-husban
Counterattack Of The Useless Son-in-law Chapter Eleven
Unfortunately for Lilian, Bill's mother, Mrs. Marta, ordered the wedding to be postponed until the following week. Mrs. Marta had arrived with Mrs. Celestia just in time to witness the chaos caused by Lilian. Although Mrs. Celestia had quickly taken control of the situation and resolved the problem, Mrs. Marta was still furious.After the guests had dispersed, Mrs. Marta stormed toward Lilian and delivered a resounding slap to her cheek.Smack!Lilian's hand flew to her stinging cheek. Her mouth opened and closed as she struggled to form words, to defend herself, but nothing came out. This was the second time she realized she had made a grave mistake."You're such a disgrace! Only God knows what my son sees in you!" Mrs. Marta spat before turning on her heel and dragging Bill away.Panic surged through Lilian as she watched them leave. She tried to rush after Mrs. Marta, but her mother stopped her."Don't go after her," her mother said firmly. "It'll only make her angrier and worsen t
Counterattack Of The Useless Son-in-law Chapter Twelve
James was seated at his desk, his fingers tapping lightly on the surface as he reviewed some reports. Bella entered the room with a folder in hand and set it down on the desk. "Your schedule for the day," she said, handing him the papers. "Meeting with the board at 3, and the international partners at 5." James barely glanced up, his mind elsewhere. "Thanks, Bella," he murmured, but his focus was clearly on something else. As she turned to leave, Bella caught sight of the headline flashing on his computer: "Drake Enterprises Faces Total Collapse; Evangeline Family Declares Bankruptcy." She stopped in her tracks and raised an eyebrow, a hint of a smile creeping onto her face. "Well, it looks like it’s finally over for them," She remarked casually, her tone filled with contentment. James didn’t look at her, but there was a certain satisfaction in his posture. He leaned back in his chair, his hands clasped behind his head. "They got what was coming to them," he said, his voice
Counterattack Of The Useless Son-in-law Chapter Thirteen
Lilian adjusted her coat nervously as she and Mrs. Celestia approached the grand gates of the Sullivan estate. If they could establish a solid connection with the Sullivan household, it would resolve only 8% of the company's problems; however, it's still better than nothing. After focusing on the Sullivan household, Mrs. Celestia planned to get connections elsewhere.The Rosewood family was indeed very ruthless. They treated them so harshly that it would take years for them to recover, even if they managed to secure favorable deals with more powerful families and businesses.Lilian felt regret. If she had known the extent of Bella's family's power, she would have thought twice before seeking trouble. Now it was too late. The security guard at the gate gave a curt nod, recognizing Lilian immediately. “Is Mr Sullivan home?” Lilian asked. "Miss Lilian, Mrs. Celestia," he said, pressing a button to let them in. "Mr. Sullivan isn’t home, but Mrs. Sullivan is expecting you." Mrs. M
Counterattack Of The Useless Son-in-law Chapter Fourteen
James didn't just let the Sullivan family off too. Remembering the torture and physical attacks, he was subjected to during his stay in prison was like fuel igniting the burning anger within him. He picked up his phone to deliver the final blow. He sent a message to Ethan, one of his most trusted men; his message was simple—Bring down sterling holdings. Ethan replied with “Yes Boss” and acted as soon as he got the message. It didn’t take up to 12 hours before the breaking news flashed across every major news channel: “STERLING HOLDINGS DECLARES BANKRUPTCY!” The news anchor’s voice was calm and professional, but the excitement in her tone was undeniable. “Sterling Holdings, one of the leading corporations in the country, has unexpectedly filed for bankruptcy. Sources reveal that the company’s stock prices plummeted in just a few hours due to an anonymous financial attack, leaving its investors in shock and chaos.” James sat in his leather chair, pouring himself a glass of r
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Chapter Twenty Three
Marcus Carter sat at his desk, surrounded by stacks of documents and photos. His fingers traced the edge of an old photograph of his sister, Theressa Evelyn Carter. This picture was taken long before she had to live in a hospital room.Years of sickness had stolen her vitality, but they had never broken her spirit. Even from her hospital bed, Theressa remained a beacon of strength. That was why her unexpected passing troubled Marcus deeply, leaving him with a sense of doubt.She had been improving—or so the doctors claimed. Then, without warning, she was gone.Marcus's jaw clenched as he flipped through the pages of his journal. For years, he had watched Robert Williams, Evelyn's husband, tighten his grip on XY Corps while his sister's health mysteriously declined. There were too many unanswered questions, too many convenient coincidences.Suddenly, the door creaked open, and Sarah walked in, carrying a folder. "I spoke to some of the hospital staff," she said, setting the folder down
Chapter Twenty Two
Bella guided James toward the bathroom, her hand steady on his arm. Despite his weakened state, his presence remained indomitable—his heat, his scent, everything about him screamed raw masculinity. Her gaze flickered down without thinking, and her eyes widened slightly."Wow," she blurted out before she could stop herself, her cheeks burning. "You're, uh, big."James's brows shot up despite the haze clouding his mind. "Bella," he drawled, his voice rough but teasing, "If you keep looking at me like that, I might take you up on that ride idea."What? At this point, he might tell Bella to tie both his hands and his mouth until the drug effect wears off. Her head snapped up, eyes wide. "I was just....oh, shut up!" she sputtered, pushing him toward the bathtub. "Stop being so cocky."He arched a brow as he leaned back against the edge of the tub for support. A minute passed, and then five minutes went by as they engaged in a staring contest. Finally, James spoke, "Trying to sneak a peak
Chapter Twenty Two
James leaned heavily against the door, struggling against the effects of the drug coursing through his system. His mind felt clouded, his body buzzing with a heat he didn’t want. But amid the haze, his anger was sharp, cutting through the fog. He moved to the table and got rid of the incense. Lilian’s voice penetrated through the door, sweet and coaxing.“James… please, I know you're hurting. Let me help you. I can make you feel better, I can help you cum... It’ll make it all go away. Just let me in.”Her words were like poison and despite the dizziness, his fists clenched. “You really think I’m that pathetic?” he spat, his voice low but laced with contempt. “That I’d fall for this again? You think I’m that weak?”“James, please…” Lilian's voice quivered, desperate. “You don’t understand. You need this. I can make it stop… I can make you feel good. Let me help you release. Please. Don’t push me away.”James took a slow, deliberate breath, the anger inside him boiling as he straighten
Chapter Twenty
James sat silently in the back of his black SUV, his jaw clenched as he stared out the tinted window. The city lights blurred into streaks of gold and white as the car sped through the streets. He couldn't shake the anger bubbling beneath the surface. How had he let Marcus plant seeds of doubt in his mind? His father, Robert, had loved Evelyn deeply—James was certain of that.Jordan’s investigation had confirmed it. Evelyn’s death was due to cancer. Her medical records were clear. There was no foul play, no hidden conspiracy. The guilt weighed heavily on James, and now he had to face Marcus again, knowing the man had manipulated him.By the time the SUV pulled up to the restaurant, James was seething. He adjusted his hood and sunglasses, stepping out with the air of someone who meant business. The restaurant was modest but elegant, its warm, ambient lighting casting shadows on the walls. Marcus was already seated at a corner table, his face lighting up with a hopeful smile when James
Chapter Nineteen
There was silence for a very long time then James broke the silence, his voice firm. "Have you tried explaining things to him? Telling him your side of the story?"Robert sighed, leaning back in his chair and pressing a hand to his forehead. "I’ve tried, James. Many times. After your mother eloped with me, I reached out to Marcus. I wrote him letters, called him, even showed up at his doorstep numerous times. But he only got mad and wouldn’t listen. At this point, there’s nothing I can say to change his mind."Robert sighed deeply, his shoulders slumping as he continued. "He believes Evelyn didn’t die of natural causes. That someone—maybe even me—hastened her death."The words hung in the air like a cloud, heavy and suffocating.James’s voice dropped, cold and steady. "Why would he think that?"Robert looked away, his gaze distant. "Your mother’s decline was... sudden. Too sudden for some to accept. Marcus always suspected foul play, but he never had any proof. And now, after her pass
Chapter eighteen
Mrs. Celestia turned towards her daughter with a thoughtful expression on her face, "Lilian, I’ve been thinking… Your grandfather. He must’ve known about James’s real identity."Lilian looked up sharply, confusion etched on her face, "What? How would he know? We had no idea James was connected to the Williams empire. He was nothing but a poor nobody when we met."Mrs. Celestia leaned forward, "Exactly. But think about it — your grandfather was always a shrewd man, always thinking five steps ahead. Do you really believe he would’ve allowed you to marry a broke nobody like James without a reason? He must’ve known something we didn’t."Lilian’s mind raced, trying to piece it all together. "He probably knew who James really was — Robert Williams’s son. That’s why he pushed for the marriage. It was never about love or alliances. It was about securing our family’s future through James." Mrs. Celestia paused after saying that, allowing her words to sink into Lilian's mind.Lilian shook her
Chapter Seventeen
James took his daughter out for a father-daughter bonding moment as he promised and returned quickly afterward.It was finally time... The news spread like wildfire.Robert William’s declaration that he would reveal his successor shook the world to its core. Every major news outlet, website, and social media platform was filled with curiosity. People speculated about who the mysterious heir to the William empire could be.The announcement itself had been brief. Robert stood before a sea of reporters at an exclusive press conference and made the declaration with his signature commanding presence:"The time has come. Tomorrow, the world will know the face of my successor—the one who will carry forward the legacy of XY Corps."He left the stage without answering questions and within minutes, the world was on fire with speculation. Every news channel and host spent time examining Robert's words in detail as they continued to debate endlessly.“I have to say, this is the biggest business
Chapter sixteen
James ended up spending time with his daughter for more than 4 hours. After eating ice cream, he took her to the park, where she played with a few kids her age, and then he brought her back to school.“Daddy, don't forget the promise you made!” Lilly beamed as she waved him goodbye. “I won't,” James said before turning to leave. He slid into the driver's seat of his car, pressed a button to close the door, and was about to start the engine when suddenly, his phone buzzed. Seeing Robert on the screen, James frowned. His father rarely called after his retirement unless it was important—or troubling.Reluctantly, he answered. "Hello, Robert?"Even to this day, James couldn't bring himself to call Robert "dad." He had tried again and again, but it just sounded foreign, so he finally gave up. However, he respected Robert.There was a long pause before his father’s voice broke through, filled with grief. Robert’s voice trembled as he tried to make out some words, “James… your mother… Evely
Chapter Fifteen
James sat at his desk, looking over some documents. He was very focused as he signed papers and approved transfers. Ethan had just updated him on what happened after Sterling Holdings collapsed, and James was already planning his next steps.He suddenly thought about Lily. He had attended Lilian's wedding to see Lily and to ensure she was doing well but she wasn't even present that day. He signed another paper. On his large desk, papers still awaiting his signature were piled up like a small tower close to seven different places. James stood and stretched his stiff muscles, before glancing at the time. It was past noon. He grabbed his coat, knowing exactly where he needed to be. Lily’s school.Leaving Bella in charge, he stepped into his sleek black car. The driver knew the destination without being told.As they neared the nursery, James felt his heart quicken. He hadn’t seen Lily in a few months. It wasn’t his choice to stay away — Lilian’s family had made things difficult after t
