The bar was dimly lit, the air thick with the smell of stale beer and cigarette smoke. Jake sat across from Hunter, nursing his drink while listening attentively to Hunter’s ramblings. Hunter's words were slurred, and his eyes were bloodshot from a combination of alcohol and pent-up emotions. “You know, Jake,” Hunter began, his voice wavering, “sometimes I wonder how things got so messed up. My ex in-laws... they were a piece of work. Always meddling, always judging. But Ava... she was the worst of them all.” Jake nodded, his expression sympathetic. He had only known Hunter for a short while, and though he had never met Ava or her family, he had heard enough stories to form a clear picture. “Tell me about it,” Jake said, leaning in slightly. Hunter took a deep breath, trying to steady himself. “It’s not just one time. It was everything. They controlled every aspect of our lives. Her parents would criticize me for the smallest things, like the way I dressed or the job I couldn't se
Over the next few weeks, James Lee observed Hunter closely. He took note of certain physical qualities and mannerisms that seemed strikingly similar to his son Michael. Hunter had the same piercing onyx-coloured eyes, the same dimpled smile, and even the same habit of tapping his fingers when deep in thought. James found himself increasingly captivated by the young man, convinced that there was something more than mere coincidence at play. James was sure that Michael had only one son, Williams. Michael would have mentioned if there were another child. This strange resemblance gnawed at James’ mind, distracting him during meetings and luring his thoughts back to Hunter time and again. That evening, James returned home, the Grand Lee mansion standing imposingly against the twilight sky. The mansion, despite its size and grandeur, was eerily silent. It had been this way since Michael fell ill seven years ago. James walked past the ornately decorated rooms, each one a testament to t
Despite hearing from both sides and having both stories sound identical, James couldn’t ignore the gnawing need to be absolutely sure that Hunter’s mother, Charlotte, was indeed the same Charlotte who had been a significant part of Michael’s past. The uncanny resemblance and the name weren’t enough to satisfy his doubt. He needed confirmation, and the only way to get it was to meet Charlotte in person, he decided. One afternoon, after ensuring Hunter was busy at work, James took Hunter’s address from the company’s records. The drive to the modest neighbourhood where Charlotte lived was filled with a mix of anticipation and anxiety. His sleek, expensive car felt out of place as he pulled up to the small, well-kept house with a vibrant front yard garden. Charlotte was tending to her flowers, her hands deftly working the soil. When she noticed the luxury car, a flicker of apprehension crossed her face. She straightened up, wiping her hands on her apron, and watched as James stepped
James had spent the last few days contemplating the best way to break the news to Patricia and Williams about Hunter’s true identity. He knew it would be a shock, especially to Patricia, but he believed it was time for the truth to come out. One evening, he called a family meeting in the living room, his heart heavy with the weight of the revelation. Patricia and Williams sat on the plush couches, curiosity and slight apprehension evident on their faces. James cleared his throat, gathering his thoughts. “Thank you both for coming. There’s something very important I need to tell you,” James began, his voice steady but filled with emotion. Williams leaned forward, his brow furrowed in concern. “What is it, Grandpa?” James took a deep breath. “I recently discovered something about our family, something that changes everything. You both know that Michael had a serious relationship before he married you, Patricia.” Patricia’s expression hardened slightly, but she nodded. “Yes, Ja
Hunter stood outside the courthouse, feeling a mixture of relief and exhaustion. The divorce from Ava had been long and painful, but it was finally over. The sun was high, and the courthouse steps were bustling with people, but all he could think about was moving forward. As he approached the entrance, he saw Ava and her mother waiting. Their faces twisted with anger as they spotted him. “You worthless piece of trash!” Ava’s mother spat, her voice venomous. “You couldn’t even keep a marriage together.” Ava joined in, her words cutting deep. “You’re useless, Hunter. I can’t believe I even considered marrying trash like you.” Hunter took a deep breath, trying to remain calm. He knew engaging with them would only make things worse. “Goodbye, Ava. I hope you find happiness,” he said simply before turning away. Ignoring the continued barrage of insults, Hunter walked to the exit. As he stepped outside, he was taken aback to see a sleek black sedan parked at the curb, a uniformed
The next few days were a whirlwind of activity at the Lee mansion and the Lee Corporation offices. The upcoming press conference, where James would reveal Hunter as his first grandson and subsequent heir, required meticulous planning and coordination. James was determined to ensure everything went smoothly. James stood in his office, reviewing the press release drafts with his assistant, Matthew. “We need to make sure the statement is clear and leaves no room for misinterpretation. This announcement is going to change everything.” Matthew nodded, jotting down notes. “I’ve scheduled meetings with the PR team to refine the message and anticipate potential questions from the media. We’re also preparing a video montage to introduce Hunter and highlight his achievements in college and as a employee in business industry.” James looked out the window, deep in thought. “Good. Hunter deserves to be recognized for who he is and what he’s accomplished. This isn’t just about the inheritanc
Patricia paced back and forth in her room, her thoughts a whirlwind of anger and frustration. The presence of Hunter and his mother, Charlotte, was a constant reminder that her carefully constructed life was at risk of unravelling. Unable to bear the uncertainty any longer, she picked up her burner phone and dialled the only number saved on it once again. The phone rang several times before the gruff voice answered. “What now, Patricia?” Patricia’s voice was sharp, laced with impatience. “How long are you planning to take? I need Hunter and Charlotte gone from my life immediately.” There was a pause on the other end, then a low, menacing chuckle. “You seem to forget who you’re talking to, Patricia. You don’t make demands of me.” Patricia’s grip tightened on the phone. “I’m paying you a lot of money. I expect results.” The man sighed, his tone shifting to one of warning. “Careful, Patricia. You may be paying me, but I’m the one taking all the risks. A little gratitude might b
In the opulent living room of the Paige mansion, Ava sat on the edge of the plush sofa, her hands clenched in frustration. The news of Hunter’s true identity had hit her like a ton of bricks, and she was spiralling into a pit of regret and anger. She had divorced the heir to the biggest conglomerate in America without even knowing it. The implications of her mistake gnawed at her constantly. Ava’s father, Andrew Paige, a stern man with a booming voice, was sipping his evening whiskey when he looked over at his daughter, shaking his head in disbelief. “You really screwed up this time, Ava. Do you know what kind of opportunity you just let slip through your fingers?” Ava’s brothers, Richard and Mark, were no less forgiving. Richard smirked as he leaned back in his chair. “All those years scheming to get a piece of grandpa’s supposed inheritance, and you never thought to aim higher. Who would’ve thought the idiot you were using was actually a Lee?” Mark chimed in, his tone dripping