2025-03-09 06:11:00Marcus stared at the message on his phone, his knuckles whitening as he tightened his grip on the device.
Unknown Number. *[You can't trust anyone, Marcus. Not even those closest to you.]*
The words hit him like a hammer. A wave of anxiety washed over his mind. Who sent this message? What did it mean? He felt trapped in a game far larger than himself.
Marcus felt tension in his neck, and his mind began racing. He couldn't let this uncertainty take control. Carefully, he started considering who might be enemies around him. Daniel was clearly a threat, but who else could be involved?
He tried to recall his last conversations with friends and colleagues. Were there any signs that they couldn't be trusted? Paranoia began to creep in, and he knew he had to be cautious.
Marcus shifted his gaze from the phone and looked around the room, feeling an urgent need to secure the place. He wouldn't let anyone, including those closest to him, know about his situation. He had to stay alert and ready for whatever came.
He sat alone in the dimly lit office, the light from his phone casting sharp shadows on his face. The words echoed in his mind, each striking the walls of control he had carefully built.
*“Who sent this? And why now?”*
Those thoughts swirled around, increasing his unease. He felt caught in a web of uncertainty, each passing second weighing heavily on his mind.
Marcus tried to remember who might know about his situation. Friends, coworkers, even people who had interacted with Evelyn—everyone came under suspicion. He couldn't let himself get trapped in distrust, but the message was clear: there was a threat out there.
He grabbed his phone again, scrolling through his contacts. Every name felt heavy, and he considered reaching out to one of them. However, doubt stopped him. Anyone could be a spy for Daniel, and he couldn't let that information fall into the wrong hands.
Marcus stared at the wall, trying to calm his chaotic thoughts. He knew he had to plan his next steps carefully. Digging deeper into the sender’s identity could be key to understanding his situation.
He leaned back in his chair, exhaling slowly as he placed the phone on the desk. Paranoia crept in, but he refused to let it take over. Over the years, Marcus had learned not to trust anyone—except himself.
He looked up at the ceiling, trying to find peace in his turbulent mind. Each passing second felt like a burden on his shoulders. He knew trust was a rare commodity, and in a world filled with betrayal, maintaining vigilance was the only way to survive.
And now, with Daniel Prescott's reckless attack, Margaret Moore's manipulative alliance, and Evelyn's sudden warning, he knew one thing for certain: the time for patience was over.
It was time to end this.
Marcus felt a new drive within him. He could no longer wait and hope the situation would improve. He had to take action, planning steps that would bring about change. All these threats were piling up, and he knew the only way to handle them was to confront them head-on.
He began strategizing. Marcus took a notebook and started writing down the names involved, including Daniel and Margaret, as well as potential allies who could help him. Every piece of information he gathered would become a weapon in his battle.
He also knew he had to protect Evelyn more than ever. Marcus planned to secure their residence and ensure that his daughter wouldn’t get caught up in this dangerous game.
With determination coursing through him, Marcus prepared to contact several associates who might assist him. He needed to get ready to face Daniel and Margaret, and most importantly, he had to ensure they couldn't harm the ones he loved the most.
As the night deepened, Marcus felt his spirit ignite. He wouldn't back down. He would fight to defend himself and his family, and he would make sure that everyone who threatened them would be confronted decisively. It was time to take control and end this.
The next morning, Marcus arrived at Carter Enterprises earlier than usual. The building was quiet, the air heavy with unspoken tension. His assistant, Claire, was already waiting near the elevator, tablet in hand and a worried expression on her face.
“Good morning, Mr. Carter,” Claire greeted.
“Claire,” Marcus replied briefly, stepping into the elevator as the doors opened. “Has the team compiled the report on Prescott Enterprises?”
“Yes, sir. It's on your desk,” Claire answered, stepping in after him. She hesitated before adding, “Sir, there’s... news. Prescott Enterprises' stock dropped five percent last night.”
A faint smile appeared at the corner of Marcus's lips. “Good. That’s just the beginning.”
Claire glanced at him, unsure how to respond. Marcus's voice was calm, but there was an edge to it—a quiet intensity that made her stomach tighten. She had worked with him long enough to recognize when he was planning something big.
With determination shining in his eyes, Marcus began formulating strategic steps. He knew every decision had to be made carefully, and he was ready to utilize all available resources. The tension in the air grew as he planned how to confront Daniel and Margaret, ensuring nothing was overlooked.
Claire felt the weight of responsibility on her shoulders but also sensed Marcus's infectious spirit. She knew that whatever they were about to do had to be executed with precision and courage. In her mind, Claire committed to supporting Marcus in every step, understanding that this battle was about more than just fighting individuals—it was about protecting the ones they loved and reclaiming control over their lives.
"Is there more?" Marcus asked as the elevator doors opened to his private floor.
"Yes, sir," Claire replied. "Your uncle has requested a meeting. He’s waiting in your office."
Marcus nodded and stepped toward his office, his mind already racing through the next steps of his plan. The elevator doors closed behind him, and the quiet atmosphere on the private floor added to the existing tension.
Upon reaching his office door, he took a deep breath, trying to calm his tumultuous mind. He opened the door and found his uncle sitting in a chair, with a serious expression indicating there were important matters to discuss.
Marcus scanned the room, ensuring there was no one eavesdropping. His uncle raised an eyebrow, as if sensing Marcus’s wariness.
Richard Carter stood by the window as Marcus entered, his broad shoulders silhouetted against the morning light.
"Uncle," Marcus greeted, his voice steady
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Poor Son-in-law 29
Richard turned, his expression unreadable. "You’ve started, then?"Marcus shrugged off his jacket and placed it on the back of his chair. "If you’re asking whether I’ve attacked Prescott Enterprises, the answer is yes," Marcus said bluntly, sitting at his desk.He looked at his uncle seriously, feeling the weight of responsibility grow heavier. Every step he took now had consequences, and he knew this battle would not be easy.Richard nodded, realizing Marcus's decision was a bold move. "Alright. We need to ensure we have all the necessary information to proceed."Marcus opened his desk drawer and pulled out several documents. "I’ve gathered data on Prescott and the people around him. There’s plenty to exploit."Richard approached, examining the documents. The serious expression on his face indicated that he understood the significance of this moment
Poor Son-in-law 30
However, as he stared at the door, a faint smile crossed his lips. This war was far from over—but he was not afraid.He was ready.Marcus turned away from the door and walked toward the window of his study. The dim afternoon sunlight pierced through the glass, painting the room in hues of gold and amber. For a moment, he allowed himself to enjoy the tranquility, the calm before another storm.The bustling city view below gave a sense of peace, even as various strategies and potential next steps swirled in his mind. He knew time wouldn’t stand still, and every moment that passed was an opportunity to prepare for new challenges.A wave of relief flowed through him, but a sense of vigilance still enveloped his thoughts. Every decision made had to be carefully considered, and he wouldn’t let this calm make him complacent.As the sunlight began to fade, Marcus return
Poor Son-in-law 31
Instead of happiness or relief, Marcus felt a confusing mix of emotions. There was pain flowing within him, recalling everything that had happened. Every good and bad memory flashed through his mind, creating a storm of feelings that was hard to capture.Evelyn, with hopeful eyes, appeared vulnerable in this moment. He sensed the tension in the air, as if every heartbeat counted down the time before something significant would happen. Marcus struggled to find the right words, caught between the desire to move forward and the fear of potential heartbreak again.He wanted to respond to Evelyn's confession, but the words seemed to escape him. All his dreams of hearing that confession now felt like a burden weighing on his mind. He had spent years longing for Evelyn’s presence, but in this moment, he felt trapped in doubt.Evelyn continued, "I don’t expect you to forgive me just like that. I just want you to know
Poor Son-in-law 1
The night was heavy with anticipation. Marcus Carter walked down the dimly lit street, a bouquet of white lilies held firmly in his hand. The flowers were Evelyn's favorite—soft, elegant, and timeless, just like the love he thought they shared. He adjusted the collar of his overcoat as a chill breeze swept past, but his mind wasn’t on the cold. Tonight was their anniversary. He glanced at his watch—8:45 PM. He was late. Work had dragged on longer than he'd planned, but he was certain Evelyn would understand. She always did. Or at least, she used to. The golden light spilling from the windows of their house was warm and inviting, and for a moment, Marcus allowed himself to imagine her reaction. She’d scold him for being late, of course, but then she’d smile—soft and forgiving. They’d toast to another year together, another year of promises. But as he stepped through the front door, something was… off.The house was eerily quiet, too quiet for a night meant for celebration. The fain
Poor Son-in-law 2
The restaurant was perfect—modern yet intimate, with soft amber lights casting a warm glow over every polished surface. The kind of place where the waiters wore sharp suits, the cutlery gleamed like silver mirrors, and the wine list was thicker than the menu. Evelyn ran her fingers over the rim of her wine glass, letting the faint hum of conversation around her settle like a comforting backdrop.Daniel sat across from her, his presence as commanding as ever. His tailored navy-blue suit hugged his broad shoulders perfectly, and his sharp jawline tensed slightly as he inspected the wine in his glass. He exuded confidence, the kind of man who knew he was the center of attention without even trying. Evelyn hated how much she craved that confidence. It wasn’t love, not really, but Daniel filled a void she couldn’t bear to face. After all, it was easier to drown in someone else’s ambition than to confront the ruins of her own choices.“Evelyn.” His voice cut through her thoughts, smooth bu
Poor Son-in-law 3
The door creaked open as Marcus stepped into the house that no longer felt like home. The weight of the evening clung to his shoulders, heavier than the coat he had draped over his arm. The faint scent of Evelyn’s expensive perfume lingered in the air, a sharp reminder of the life he was about to leave behind. The living room was dimly lit, shadows stretching across the walls, but the silence was deafening.He exhaled slowly, taking in the surroundings. The place was spotless, as always, every cushion perfectly arranged, every trinket in its place. Evelyn had always been meticulous about appearances. But to Marcus, it all felt hollow now.He walked toward the staircase, his footsteps muffled by the thick carpet, and paused at the base. For the first time in years, he felt like a stranger in his own house. The memories came flooding back—laughter, arguments, stolen moments of tenderness—but those felt like they belonged to someone else, someone he no longer recognized.He clenched his
Poor Son-in-law 4
The morning air was crisp, carrying with it a faint scent of rain from the night before. Marcus stood at the edge of the curb, his suitcase by his side, watching the empty road in front of him. The house behind him still loomed, its cold, pristine walls a reminder of everything he had just walked away from. He exhaled slowly, his breath visible in the chilly air, and glanced down at his phone.The call with his uncle from the night before still rang in his ears. "Tell me everything," Richard had said, his voice laced with both concern and authority. And Marcus had told him—everything about Evelyn, the betrayal, the humiliation. He had laid it bare, and Richard had listened in silence, only speaking at the end to say, "I'll take care of it. Be ready in the morning."Marcus didn't know what "take care of it" meant, but he trusted his uncle. Richard Carter was a man of his word. A man of power. And as much as Marcus had tried to distance himself from the Carter family over the years, dee
Poor Son-in-law 5
The driveway leading up to the Carter estate was a long stretch of cobblestone surrounded by towering oaks. The winter air was crisp, and the faint gray clouds above hinted at an oncoming storm. Marcus slowed the car as the grand, Victorian-style mansion came into view. It had been years since he’d last set foot here, and yet the sight of it still stirred something in him—nostalgia? Bitterness? He wasn’t sure.He parked near the front steps, taking a moment to steady himself. The past few months had been nothing short of chaos, and now, standing here again, he felt like a man teetering on the edge of two worlds. One was his past—the ghost of the man he used to be, broken and humiliated. The other was his future, the man he was becoming: calculated, focused, and unrelenting.As he stepped out of the car, the front door opened. Richard Carter, his uncle, stood tall in the doorway, his sharp features softened slightly by a welcoming smile.“Marcus,” Richard greeted, his voice firm but wa
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Instead of happiness or relief, Marcus felt a confusing mix of emotions. There was pain flowing within him, recalling everything that had happened. Every good and bad memory flashed through his mind, creating a storm of feelings that was hard to capture.Evelyn, with hopeful eyes, appeared vulnerable in this moment. He sensed the tension in the air, as if every heartbeat counted down the time before something significant would happen. Marcus struggled to find the right words, caught between the desire to move forward and the fear of potential heartbreak again.He wanted to respond to Evelyn's confession, but the words seemed to escape him. All his dreams of hearing that confession now felt like a burden weighing on his mind. He had spent years longing for Evelyn’s presence, but in this moment, he felt trapped in doubt.Evelyn continued, "I don’t expect you to forgive me just like that. I just want you to know
30
However, as he stared at the door, a faint smile crossed his lips. This war was far from over—but he was not afraid.He was ready.Marcus turned away from the door and walked toward the window of his study. The dim afternoon sunlight pierced through the glass, painting the room in hues of gold and amber. For a moment, he allowed himself to enjoy the tranquility, the calm before another storm.The bustling city view below gave a sense of peace, even as various strategies and potential next steps swirled in his mind. He knew time wouldn’t stand still, and every moment that passed was an opportunity to prepare for new challenges.A wave of relief flowed through him, but a sense of vigilance still enveloped his thoughts. Every decision made had to be carefully considered, and he wouldn’t let this calm make him complacent.As the sunlight began to fade, Marcus return
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Richard turned, his expression unreadable. "You’ve started, then?"Marcus shrugged off his jacket and placed it on the back of his chair. "If you’re asking whether I’ve attacked Prescott Enterprises, the answer is yes," Marcus said bluntly, sitting at his desk.He looked at his uncle seriously, feeling the weight of responsibility grow heavier. Every step he took now had consequences, and he knew this battle would not be easy.Richard nodded, realizing Marcus's decision was a bold move. "Alright. We need to ensure we have all the necessary information to proceed."Marcus opened his desk drawer and pulled out several documents. "I’ve gathered data on Prescott and the people around him. There’s plenty to exploit."Richard approached, examining the documents. The serious expression on his face indicated that he understood the significance of this moment
28
Marcus stared at the message on his phone, his knuckles whitening as he tightened his grip on the device.Unknown Number. *[You can't trust anyone, Marcus. Not even those closest to you.]*The words hit him like a hammer. A wave of anxiety washed over his mind. Who sent this message? What did it mean? He felt trapped in a game far larger than himself.Marcus felt tension in his neck, and his mind began racing. He couldn't let this uncertainty take control. Carefully, he started considering who might be enemies around him. Daniel was clearly a threat, but who else could be involved?He tried to recall his last conversations with friends and colleagues. Were there any signs that they couldn't be trusted? Paranoia began to creep in, and he knew he had to be cautious.Marcus shifted his gaze from the phone and looked around the room, feeling an urgent need to secure the place. He wou
27
"Because I'm telling the truth," Evelyn said desperately. "I know you have no reason to believe me, but you need to listen. Daniel is not who you think he is. He… he’s not just targeting your business, Marcus. He’s targeting you."Marcus's heart raced in his chest, although he kept his voice steady. "What do you mean?""He's planning to hurt you," Evelyn said, her voice almost a whisper. "Physically. I heard him talking to someone last night. He… he’s angry, Marcus. He feels you’ve humiliated him, and he wants revenge."Before Marcus could respond, the call suddenly dropped. He pulled the phone from his ear, frowning as he tried to call back, but there was no answer. A sense of discomfort enveloped him, making him restless.He stood and began pacing his office, each step filled with anxiety. Thoughts of Evelyn kept swirling in his mind. He knew all too well that
26
The fact that Daniel Prescott was a real threat only emphasized the urgency of their meeting. Without a doubt, Marcus knew that Prescott wouldn’t stop until he got what he wanted. If Margaret had information that could help him, he would be foolish to dismiss it.He studied Margaret’s expression, searching for signs of honesty behind her calm demeanor. Despite the tension, Marcus couldn’t overlook the potential benefits of this collaboration. Leveraging Margaret’s strengths and information could be a strategically smart move, even if it meant entrusting part of himself to this enigmatic woman.With his decision becoming clearer, Marcus felt compelled to explore this possibility. He knew that every step had to be taken carefully. The choice to work together could lead them both down a dangerous path, but if it was the only way to protect Evelyn and confront Prescott, then he had to be prepared to face the risks.
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Marcus stepped toward the corner of the street, the sound of his footsteps muffled by the cold concrete floor. He took a deep breath, trying to capture the fresh night air, even though a hint of worry lingered in his heart.This city, usually bustling, now felt quiet, as if waiting for something unexpected. He looked around, ensuring no one was watching him. Despite the risks of this meeting, he felt it was the right step.In the pocket of his coat, his hand brushed against a note he had written earlier. The information was invaluable and could change everything. Marcus knew that if he failed tonight, the consequences could be severe.He felt his heartbeat quicken as their eyes met. The woman had a mixed expression, as if waiting and worried at the same time. He stepped inside, taking in the warm and intimate atmosphere of the café, a stark contrast to the darkness outside. Soft lights cast a warm glow, creating a
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Richard looked at him for a moment before speaking. “You need to decide, Marcus. Are you fighting for revenge, or are you fighting to protect what’s yours? Because those are two very different battles.”For a moment, Marcus said nothing, his mind filled with conflicting emotions. He respected his uncle’s wisdom, but the thought of Prescott and Evelyn together ignited a fire he couldn’t extinguish.One side of him urged immediate action, to retaliate against all the pain caused. Yet the other side recognized that revenge would only add to the chaos, ruining everything he had built. He knew he had to find balance—a way to protect what was precious without getting trapped in a cycle of hatred.The tension deepened, and Marcus felt the weight of the decision pressing on him. He took a deep breath, trying to calm his swirling thoughts. He needed to think clearly and plan his next moves care
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Each second felt like it slowed down, and Marcus felt an overwhelming wave of emotion. The beautiful memories with Evelyn, the moments when they dreamed about the future together, now loomed in a dark light. He felt as if he had been betrayed not just by Evelyn, but also by the world he believed in.In the silence of the room, Marcus struggled to maintain his composure. The pain stung, reminding him of all he had sacrificed. He remembered how hard he fought to move on after Evelyn's departure. Now, hearing that she was involved with Prescott made everything feel futile.His colleagues' eyes were on him, filled with attention and concern. They sensed the tension hanging in the air. Marcus knew he had to regain control of the situation. He couldn't let his emotions take over; he had to act wisely.He looked at Richard, trying to suppress the anger bubbling within him. Deep down, he was determined to find the truth. He coul
