At a filming set near the beach, Pablo Rusto breathed fire, just as Marcus had guessed.The filming crew and his managers just watched him throw a tantrum, not stopping him from making a mess of the set because it was easier to wait for him to tire out than to stop him.“What made him that angry? Did he lose at the casino again?” the director asked Pablo’s manager.“I don’t really know. He just received a call from his junior, and he suddenly threw a fit like that,” the manager said exasperatedly, feeling as if working with Pablo was shaving a decade off his life.“He probably lost a woman to his junior,” the director said. “He should compensate for everything he breaks today. Twice the original price, as usual.”“Yes, we will. Just send us the list.”“Okay. We’ll be having snacks over there. Call us once he’s done.”“Sure. Thank you and sorry for this.”“No need to apologize. I’m used to him.”Everyone remained calm and ignored Pablo’s fit, while Pablo himself was too angry to notice
Back at Marcus Xu, he left the Magic Entertainment headquarters, feeling a sense of satisfaction after successfully causing chaos for Pablo, Resyter, and the club. He had a busy day ahead, but first, he needed to head back to Margarette’s penthouse.Opting for public transportation, he walked to the nearest bus stop, ready for the commute. As the bus rolled through the bustling city streets, Marcus stared out the window, lost in thought. His mind replayed the day's events and the plans he had set in motion.Suddenly, his attention was drawn to a sight that made him sit up straighter. Two small children were wandering around the sidewalk by themselves. Recognizing the children immediately, Marcus's eyes widened in surprise. It was Jesse Harp-William’s children, Rose and Leilani. They were only four and six years old, far too young to be wandering the busy streets alone.Concerned, he quickly pressed the button to signal the bus to stop. As soon as the doors opened, he dashed out and he
Marcus stood frozen as the police officers grabbed him, their harsh grips bruising his arms. Rose and Leilani screamed, reaching out for him as they were pulled away.“I didn’t kidnap them! I’m friends with their mother!” Marcus protested, but his words fell on deaf ears.One of the officers roughly patted him down while another secured handcuffs around his wrists. “Save it for the station,” one officer said, pushing him toward the door.The scene quickly drew a crowd. Passersby gawked, whispering and snapping pictures with their phones.Marcus's heart pounded as he was shoved into the back of a police car. He could hear the children crying out for him as the car sped off.At the police station, Marcus was led through a labyrinth of gray corridors and into a stark interrogation room. The metal cuffs were unceremoniously removed, and he was left to sit alone at a cold metal table.Minutes felt like hours as he waited, anxiety gnawing at his insides.“I hope this won’t bring too much tr
Inside CEO Joe’s car, Marcus sat silently in the backseat, contemplating the sin he had committed, almost ruining a family.Meanwhile, CEO Joe remained silent, driving through the city without saying a word. He had many questions but kept them to himself, assuming this incident was related to the succession war happening in the William family.“You’re not going to scold me?” Marcus asked after a long silence.“Scold you? Why would I? Everything is just a misunderstanding, right?”“Yes, it is,” he nodded. “I’m sorry for bringing so much trouble.”“Oh, no need to apologize. It’s our job anyway,” CEO Joe awkwardly responded, unused to seeing Marcus so down. “You should get a good rest. You have to be on set tomorrow at 3.”“Ah, that’s right. I should focus on my career. The series will premiere soon,” Marcus said, thinking about his series that would air its first episode despite ongoing filming.The producers decided to air it while Marcus's popularity was high. It was risky, but the pr
Marcus turned to face Jason Kiliman, his expression cautious. He didn't recognize the man, but his aura alone spelled trouble.“No, I’m not interested,” Marcus said curtly, starting to walk away.Jason didn't move, but his voice followed Marcus. “My boss is Jeyster Sebastian.”Marcus stopped in his tracks, the name sending a chill down his spine. He turned back to face Jason, his eyes narrowing.“Jeyster Sebastian wants to meet with me?”“Yes. He requests a moment of your time. He’s aware of the... complications involving his son.” Jason nodded.Marcus considered this. A meeting with Jeyster could provide valuable insight and possibly an advantage. Despite the potential risk, the opportunity was too tempting to ignore.“Fine,” Marcus said, his voice steady. “Lead the way.”Jason led Marcus to a sleek black car parked nearby. Marcus slipped into the backseat, his mind racing with possibilities.The ride was short, and soon they arrived at a high-end office building.Inside, they took a
Marcus checked the contents of the envelope and discovered a complete package for entry into the Hollywood industry. There was a plane ticket, a referral letter from a renowned agent, a recommendation for a top-tier acting school, and the deed to a house in Los Angeles.“What a golden ticket,” he muttered under his breath.Every actor, from aspiring novices to seasoned professionals, dreams of breaking into Hollywood. It was the ultimate destination for those seeking fame and success in the entertainment world.“This is quite the package,” Marcus said, trying to keep his voice steady. His hands trembled slightly as he sifted through the documents.The opportunities laid out before him were beyond anything he had ever imagined. Hollywood wasn't just a dream; it was a lifelong aspiration, a pinnacle that only a fortunate few could ever hope to reach.The offer Jeyster presented was incredibly tempting. He could just drop his job as the son-in-law’s double, but the intention behind the o
The news of Margarette losing her memories shocked Marcus Xu for only a second.He shrugged and reluctantly said, “Then tell her the truth. Brief her right away. What’s the problem?”He couldn’t understand why amnesia was troubling, assuming it would be temporary.“I came late. Jaucian was also late,” Philip said with a groan.“What do you mean, late at what?”“The chairman got to her first.”“And so?”“She woke with no memories at all, and it was the chairman who filled her in about herself. I lost the chance to correct her.”“It’s not like the chairman will stay with her forever.”“The caregiver the chairman provided will.”“Oh, that’s a hassle. So what she knows now is what the chairman told her, not the real Margarette William we know? And I’m the only one who can tell her the real details?”“Yes. So let’s hurry before it becomes harder for her to believe us.”“Okay.”Marcus reluctantly turned to the door. He glanced at the door of his room inside the penthouse before stepping out
In the hospital owned by William Group, where the William family entrusted their health, Philip Cheng hurriedly walked into the elevator after Marcus kicked him out of Margarette’s hospital room. His expression was dark, and the wrinkles on his forehead deepened as he waited for the elevator to reach the highest floor.“Do you have an appointment, sir?” the receptionist asked as soon as he reached the director’s office.“Do I need an appointment?” he responded curtly, his irritation growing when the receptionist failed to recognize him.“Yes, sir. You do need an appointment to meet the director,” the receptionist said politely.“Are you kidding me right now?” he said, slamming his hand on the counter.“What’s going on?” a much older receptionist approached after hearing the commotion and immediately stiffened upon seeing Philip. “Oh gosh, sir Philip Cheng, please come in. The director is inside,” she said, side-eyeing the younger receptionist, who immediately paled upon recognizing Ph
All the members of the William family glared at Marcus with disapproval. Their silent protests were as loud as thunder, but only Fermina openly expressed her disdain, shouting at him.“What did you do?” she exclaimed.“What? Don’t worry, I’m not interested in taking everything away from you all,” he shrugged. “Is it just as bad for me? A new workload I never asked for?”“Tell me honestly, what are Gudofredo and you planning to do?” Fermina asked, her gaze menacing.This was not part of her plan at all. None of this was what she expected. No one expected this.“Nothing. I’m as shocked as you all, but as a good son-in-law, I’ll do the job well.” Marcus winked and then stepped closer to Fermina and Michael, looking at them contemptuously. “Now, I think your ears are ready to listen to what I have to say.”“We won’t just follow your orders,” Michael said. “I am still the eldest son of this family. You should watch what you say,” he added, though there was a hint of caution in his tone.“L
No one noticed Marcus harshly grabbing Gregory’s wife by the face, as everyone’s attention was on the doctor’s statement.He instantly silenced Margarette with a menacing glare.“Do you know what happens when you treat people like filth? They might end up like Miguel Xu—driven to the point of suicide."“Isn’t dying easier than suffering in poverty?” Margarette innocently replied, failing to empathize with people like the Xu brothers.“Why do I even bother trying to make you understand?” he groaned, releasing her but unable to calm his rage. He badly wanted these people to pay and taste what poverty feels like.“I don’t get what you’re trying to say. Aren’t you a William too?” Margarette said.“Ha! That’s right, I am a William now,” Marcus dryly laughed. He then tried to confirm if everything Margarette said was reliable. “How do you know all of this?”“Mom would usually express her concerns when she thought I was asleep. She talks to herself a lot.”“That’s funny to hear. Fermina is r
Marcus Xu’s face contorted under his bandages as he walked through the hospital hallway, a throng of media and reporters clashing with his security detail, desperate for a statement."Why now? This old man is really a piece of sh*t." Marcus voiced his frustration as soon as he entered the restricted area where the reporters couldn’t follow.“The family is gathered in the lobby,” Butler Morgan reported, trying to ignore Marcus’s grumbling and focus on his duties.“So you called me just to idle?” Marcus asked irritably. “I’ve got a lot of other things to do, you know.”“But Madam Margarette was looking for you.”“So, is Margarette your boss now?”“No, that’s not it,” Morgan stuttered. “It’s just that everyone is here, so I thought you should be here too.”“As if I’m part of this family,” Marcus said, glaring at Morgan.His time was precious, especially with so much to do with catching Reyster Sebastian.Even though he knew the competent Carlos Roki was on the move, he wanted to make sur
While Marcus Xu was determined and focused on catching Reyster Sebastian and uncovering the truth behind his brother’s death, chaos continued between the brothers Michael and Gerald William in Aurora.The grand doors of the William mansion swung open, and in marched the imposing figure of Chairman Gudofredo, his eyes blazing with fury. His once sharp features, now softened by age, contorted in rage as he took in the scene before him.Michael and Gerald, the two heirs to the William empire, were grappling like schoolboys, fists flying and shouts echoing through the ornate hall."Enough!" The chairman's voice thundered, freezing everyone in place.Michael and Gerald, their suits disheveled and their faces flushed, sprang apart, panting."What in god's name do you think you're doing?" the chairman bellowed, his voice reverberating off the marble walls. "You are the CEOs of the William Group, not children in a playground!"Both men stood silent, eyes cast down, avoiding their father's fur
Marcus Xu arrived at the William Securities headquarters. Despite it being Michael William’s territory, the staff treated him with care, aware that Gregory William had equal power in appointing the next chairman of the conglomerate.“Please wait in CEO Michael’s office. We’ll bring all the files you need there,” an associate said.“No. I don’t want to wait,” Marcus bluntly replied as he barged into the headquarters' security control room, startling the staff.“Leave me alone. I’ll call you once I’m done,” he commanded, ignoring the startled looks from everyone around him.“What are you looking for, sir? It will be faster if we navigate it for you,” a security personnel suggested.“No. Everyone leave,” he said sternly, his commanding tone leaving no room for argument.Once alone, Marcus operated the computers with ease, his past experience as a part-time security personnel coming in handy. He quickly navigated through the controls, searching for footage of Miguel Xu meeting Michael Wil
Marcus's heart pounded with intense rage and confusion. He froze in place, struggling to digest the events that led to his brother’s death."Miguel wasn't just devastated because we were poor and I was murdered? He met these bastards? What did they do that pushed Miguel to kill himself?" he mused.He felt like snapping Michael and Gerald's necks as they remained nonchalant, talking casually about the person they killed and the consequences that led to his brother’s suicide.His veins popped out, and his brows knitted in disgust at the vile people in front of him.However, none of his expressions or intense rage would be noticed by the two because of the bandages wrapped around his face. Michael and Gerald were oblivious to the growing hatred within Marcus as they continued to speak casually."Why do you care about that actor and crippled brother? They don't matter. What matters is that you helped me get away from this jackass's scheme. Thanks to you, I was saved from being framed," Mi
At Aurora, the grand estate of the William family, the members gathered in the opulent study room, the tension palpable as they awaited the arrival of Chairman Gudofredo. The ornate room, filled with dark wood and rich leather, seemed to suffocate them under the weight of the scandal that had befallen the William Group.Ruben, the chairman's brother, lounged in a leather armchair, swirling a glass of brandy. His eyes darted around the room, assessing the anxiety etched on everyone’s faces."Well, isn't this a charming family gathering," he remarked with a sardonic grin. "I wonder which one of us will be the sacrificial lamb today."Lucretia, Ruben’s wife, sat primly beside him, her lips pursed in disapproval. "Ruben, this is serious. The company's reputation is at stake, and all you can do is make jokes."Emily, the wife of the eldest son, Michael, stood near the fireplace, her arms crossed defensively. "Perhaps if certain people had been more discreet, we wouldn't be in this mess," s
Jeyster Sebastian stood in his office, glaring at the mirror as his team bustled around him, preparing for the press conference. The weight of the latest scandal pressed heavily on him. His hands shook slightly as he adjusted his tie, trying to mask his anger and anxiety. The media had already crowded the hall outside, with cameras flashing and reporters shouting questions."Mr. Sebastian," his secretary, Killiman, approached cautiously, his face pale. "There's another problem."Jeyster's heart sank. He turned to him, his eyes narrowing. "What now?""Reyster caused a scene at the William Group conference," Killiman said, his voice trembling. "He barged in, accusing Gerald William of framing him. It’s all over the news already."Jeyster felt a surge of rage. "That idiot! He's making everything worse!" He slammed his fist on the table, making everyone in the room jump. "We need to fix this. Now."He barked orders to his employees. "Double-check the statements, make sure the press kit is
The grand ballroom of the Sunrise Hotel was filled with investors, executives, and media personnel, all buzzing with anticipation.Marcus Xu, disguised as Gregory William, stood confidently on the stage, his bandaged face hiding a sinister smile.The moment he'd been waiting for had arrived.“Let me in!”The crowd gasped, and security immediately moved to intercept Reyster Sebastian the moment he barged into the conference hall. He pushed through them with frenzied strength."Gerald William! Where are you?" Reyster shouted, his voice cracking with emotion. No longer intimidated by Gregory William, he furiously searched for Gerald. His disheveled appearance drew whispers and curious glances from the attendees. Wearing only a robe and slippers, he stood in stark contrast to the polished, high-powered crowd."Gerald William!" Reyster shouted again, his voice echoing through the ballroom. "Show yourself, you coward!"Marcus Xu stepped forward, gripping the microphone tightly. "Ladies and