Chapter 8: Revelations and Retribution
Vivian’s heart sank as the weight of her actions hit her. It turned out that everything Helen had said was true. She had humiliated the wrong people, and now the consequences were staring her in the face. Her legs gave way, and she collapsed to her knees in front of Dylan and Helen. Cold sweat dripped from her forehead, and her hands trembled as she clasped them together in desperation. "Please, Helen... Young Master Dylan..." Vivian’s voice cracked, and tears streamed down her face. "I was wrong. I didn’t mean it! I didn’t know who you were! Please, forgive me. I’ll do anything to make this right!" Helen stood tall beside Dylan, her sharp gaze pinned on Vivian. Her voice was cold, yet steady, as she spoke. "You didn’t mean it? Was it ignorance or arrogance, Vivian? You didn’t bother verifying who we were before treating us like dirt. And now you’re groveling? Do you think that excuses what you’ve done?" Vivian’s sobs grew louder, and she crawled closer, reaching for Helen’s hand. "I was blinded by my assumptions! I swear it won’t happen again. Please, Helen, Dylan, give me another chance!" Dylan’s eyes remained calm but distant, his hands in his pockets as he looked down at the groveling woman. Before she could continue begging, John Nelson’s booming voice cut through the room. "Enough." The authority in his tone silenced everyone. John’s expression was as cold as steel as he glared at Vivian. "You’ve disgraced the Nelson family name and tarnished the reputation of the Royal Elysian Hotel. Do you think begging for mercy will undo the humiliation you’ve caused my granddaughter and the Young Master of the family?" Vivian shook her head desperately, her tears now soaking her face. "No, Mr. Nelson! Please, I was wrong. I’ll do anything, even if you want me to resign." "You don’t need to resign," John interrupted icily. "You’re fired." A strangled gasp escaped Vivian’s throat. "Fired?" she echoed, disbelief flashing across her face. "Mr. Nelson, please! I’ve dedicated years to this place!" John’s sharp gaze didn’t falter. He turned to the security guards standing nearby. "Escort her out of the premises. I don’t want to see her face in this hotel ever again." The guards hesitated for a moment, but John’s authoritative stance left no room for argument. They moved swiftly, grabbing Vivian by her arms and dragging her toward the exit. She screamed and begged all the way out, her voice fading as the murmurs of the crowd grew louder. --- **In the Grand Lobby** John turned to face Dylan and Helen, his expression softening as guilt flickered in his eyes. "Young Master Dylan, I deeply apologize for this disgraceful incident. As the chairman, this was my responsibility, and I failed to ensure the dignity of our guests. Please, allow me to personally invite you to the Supreme Banquet Hall to make amends." Dylan gave a small nod, his expression unreadable. "Let’s not dwell on it, Mr. Nelson. Lead the way." As they entered the elevator, whispers followed them. "The Supreme Banquet Hall?" one guest murmured. "That’s reserved for VIPs!" "Who is that guy? Mr. Nelson called him the Young Master!" "Could he be from the Nelson family?" --- **At the Supreme Banquet Hall** The room was a breathtaking sight. Crystal chandeliers sparkled overhead, and the golden décor shimmered in the soft light. The aroma of fine wine and gourmet dishes filled the air. John personally pulled out a chair for Dylan at the head table. "Please, sit, Young Master Dylan," he said respectfully. Once they were seated, John leaned forward, his tone sincere. "Young Master Dylan, I cannot express how ashamed I am. This was an unforgivable oversight. I assure you, it will never happen again." Dylan’s expression remained calm. "Mr. Nelson, this wasn’t entirely your fault." He glanced at Helen briefly before continuing. "Jane had a hand in this. She orchestrated it deliberately to create trouble for us." John’s face darkened at the mention of Jane. A flash of alarm crossed his features as he suddenly remembered something. "The cooperation agreement with her company!" he muttered, standing abruptly. "I haven’t canceled it yet!" He quickly pulled out his phone and called the manager in charge of the deal. His tone was sharp and urgent. "Cancel the cooperation with Jane’s company immediately. Do you hear me? IMMEDIATELY!” There was a brief silence on the other end of the line before John’s expression turned grim. "What? The manager has already left to sign the contract? Get me his number, now!" --- **Meanwhile, in Another ordinary Banquet Hall** In a smaller, yet elegant banquet hall, Jane and Bobby were entertaining a middle-aged man with a slick smile. The man was the manager of the Nelson family’s business division, and he was there to finalize the cooperation agreement with Jane’s company. The room was filled with Jane’s carefully invited guests—business associates, potential investors, and socialites. Jane had planned this moment meticulously, ensuring that everyone would witness her "success" in securing a deal with the Nelson family. The manager raised his glass in a toast, his tone flattering. "Ms. Jane, I must say, you’re very fortunate to have such a reliable partner. It’s clear someone powerful is helping you behind the scenes to secure this deal." Jane raised her glass with a practiced smile, her eyes filled with gratitude as she looked at Bobby. “I couldn’t have done this without you, Bobby. Truly.” Bobby smirked, leaning back in his chair as if the whole affair was beneath him. “You give me too much credit, Jane. It was just a few phone calls.” The manager, seated across from them, looked mildly amused but suddenly furrowed his brows. “Ms. Jane,” he asked, his tone light but curious, “Isn’t your husband here? I expected to see him at such an important occasion.” Jane’s smile faltered, and an awkward silence fell over the table. Her grip on her wine glass tightened as she scrambled for an answer. “Ah… my husband…” she began, her voice tinged with forced nonchalance. “He’s just an ordinary man, you see. He doesn’t feel comfortable in high-profile settings like this. So Bobby offered to accompany me today.” The manager raised an eyebrow, his curiosity growing. He turned his gaze toward Bobby, studying him with a hint of skepticism. “Bobby, was it?” he asked, tilting his head slightly. “Forgive me, but I feel like I’ve seen you somewhere before. Your family… I don’t recall them having connections with the Nelson family.” Bobby’s confident expression wavered for a split second before he recovered. “Oh, well, we don’t flaunt our connections,” he said smoothly, brushing off the remark. “I prefer to keep things discreet.” The manager’s eyes narrowed slightly, but before he could press further, his phone buzzed loudly on the table. He glanced at the screen, and his expression shifted immediately to one of alarm. It was Mr. Nelson calling. “Excuse me for a moment,” he muttered, standing abruptly and walking a few steps away to answer the call. “Hello, Sir” his voice was low but urgent. After hearing what Mr. Nelson said, his expression changed abruptly, and he quickly left the banquet hall.Related Chapters
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Chapter 9: Illusions Shattered The manager had barely stepped out of the banquet hall when the air inside began to thrum with excitement. Jane, glowing with pride, sat at the center of attention as guests flocked to her and Bobby. “Ms. Jane, I must say, this is such an impressive feat!” a woman in a burgundy gown gushed. “Collaborating with the Nelson family—do you know how rare that is? You’re truly remarkable!” Another man, dressed in a tailored navy suit, nodded eagerly. “You’re a visionary, Ms. Jane. Your company is destined to soar after this deal. I wouldn’t be surprised if you became one of the top players in the industry.” Jane’s lips curved into a self-satisfied smile. “Thank you, everyone. It wasn’t easy, but I believe hard work and persistence always pay off. And of course, having the right people around helps immensely.” She glanced at Bobby, her eyes softening. “Absolutely!” a third guest chimed in. One older gentleman raised his glass. “A toast to Ms. Jane’s br
Rise Of The Phoenix: Dylan’s Rebirth Illusions Crumble
Chapter 10: Illusions Crumble Jane’s face turned pale as Carter Reed’s words sank in. She forced herself to maintain a calm demeanor, but her hands trembled as she clutched the edge of the podium. With a strained smile, she said, “Mr. Reed, you must be joking. Surely, you realize this is a public event. Journalists are here covering the success of this collaboration.” Carter’s expression remained cold, devoid of the respect he had shown her earlier. His voice was flat, almost mechanical, as he repeated, “The Nelson family has decided to cancel their cooperation with your company. This is final, Ms. Jane.” The room froze. Whispers rippled through the crowd, and all eyes turned to Jane. Jane’s lips parted, but no words came out. Her entire body trembled, and she stumbled slightly, nearly collapsing. Bobby was at her side in an instant, gripping her arm and helping her stay upright. “Jane, calm down,” he murmured nervously. Jane ignored him, her voice rising in panic. “Mr. Reed,
Rise Of The Phoenix: Dylan’s Rebirth The Truth Unveiled
Chapter 11: The Truth Unveiled Jane’s entire body trembled, her mind spinning with confusion and humiliation. She barely registered Carter Reed’s trembling plea to John Nelson, the patriarch of the Nelson family. It was Helen’s calm yet piercing voice that snapped her out of her daze. “Ms. Jane,” Helen began, her tone as icy as her expression, “do you even know who you’re accusing? Fraudster? Me?” She tilted her head slightly, a mocking smile curling her lips. “Allow me to introduce myself properly since it seems you’ve failed to do your research. I am Helen Nelson, the eldest daughter of the Nelson family.” The weight of Helen’s words hit Jane like a tidal wave. She staggered back, her face losing every trace of color. “N-No,” she stammered, shaking her head. “This can’t be. You—this is a setup! You can’t be the eldest Miss of the Nelson family. I would have known!” Helen raised a perfectly arched eyebrow. “Would you? It’s astonishing how much confidence you have in your i
Rise Of The Phoenix: Dylan’s Rebirth A Chaotic Exit
Chapter 12: A Chaotic Exit The tension in the room reached its peak as Jane's voice rang out, her shrill protests echoing against the marble walls. The sudden arrival of two burly security guards brought an abrupt halt to the escalating chaos. "Madam," the taller guard said firmly, stepping forward, "you need to leave the premises immediately." Jane spun around, glaring at them. "You can’t throw me out! Do you know who I am?!" The other guard gave her a flat look. "We have our orders and this isn’t up for debate. Please cooperate, or we'll have to escort you out by force." Jane’s glare darted toward Helen, her voice rising with desperation. “This is your doing! You think you’ve won, but this isn’t over, Helen! You’ll pay for humiliating me like this!” Helen didn’t flinch. She tilted her head, her icy smile unwavering. “If you spent less time playing the victim and more time reflecting on your mistakes, Jane, you might find life a little easier. But go ahead—make a scene.
Rise Of The Phoenix: Dylan’s Rebirth Unwelcome Praise
Chapter 13: Unwelcome PraiseJane pushed open the door to her home, her heels clicking against the wooden floor. The weight of the day pressed heavily on her shoulders, but she was greeted by an unexpected sight: her mother and younger brother sitting in her living room, their faces twisted in frustration.“There you are!” her mother, Linda, snapped, crossing her arms. “What took you so long? Do you know how long we’ve been waiting here?”“Waiting for what?” Jane asked tiredly, dropping her purse on the couch.“For lunch!” Linda exclaimed, glaring at her. “We thought Dylan would have the decency to open the door and prepare something for us, but that lazy jerk didn’t even show up. He has no manners!”Jane froze, her expression faltering. “Dylan doesn’t live here anymore,” she said quietly.Her younger brother, Adam, who was lounging with his feet up on the coffee table, perked up at her words. “Wait—what? Did he finally leave? About time, sis! That guy was useless.”Linda’s face lit u
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14The luxurious restaurant buzzed with soft laughter and the gentle clinking of crystal glasses, its golden chandeliers casting a warm glow over the tables adorned with pristine white linens. Dylan sat across from Helen and Molly, the remnants of their elegant dinner cleared away by attentive waitstaff. The evening had been filled with light conversation, but beneath Dylan’s composed demeanor, a current of gratitude simmered—gratitude toward Helen for everything she’d done for him and Molly.Molly swung her little legs under the table, her bright eyes following the swirl of the dessert cart as it passed by. She had been unusually quiet during dinner, occasionally glancing between Dylan and Helen with an expression that Dylan couldn’t quite decipher.Helen leaned back slightly, her posture as graceful as always, though her sharp business-like demeanor had softened around Dylan and Molly. She turned to Dylan with a small smile. “Shall we go? It’s getting late, and Molly looks like she’
Rise Of The Phoenix: Dylan’s Rebirth 15
Chapter 15The morning sun cast a golden hue over the city as Dylan helped Molly into her bright yellow jacket. The light streamed through the apartment window, catching on the soft curls of her hair. She was unusually quiet, her small hands fidgeting with the zipper as Dylan crouched down to her level.“You ready, Munchkin?” he asked gently, brushing a stray curl from her forehead.Molly nodded, but her eyes betrayed the nervous flutter in her chest. “Do you think Helen will come?” she whispered, her voice small and uncertain.Dylan gave her a reassuring smile, cupping her tiny chin in his hand. “Of course she will. But we should get going now, alright? She’ll meet us there.”Molly bit her lip, clearly not entirely convinced, but she nodded and grabbed her little backpack. Dylan took her hand, squeezing it gently as they headed out the door.He took the modest car parked in front of the apartment—Helen had insisted he use it. But once he arrived at the villa arranged for him, he'd be
Rise Of The Phoenix: Dylan’s Rebirth 16
16 Dylan took a deep breath, his fists still clenched at his sides. Before he could respond, the woman took a defiant step forward, her chin raised in smug confidence. “You don’t know who you’re dealing with,” she sneered, jabbing a finger toward Dylan’s chest. “My husband is the regional manager of Luxe Dynamics Company. We’re respected in this community. We don’t take kindly to accusations from... people like you.” Dylan’s eyes narrowed. “People like me?” he echoed, his voice low and dangerous. The woman scoffed, waving a dismissive hand toward Dylan’s beat-up car parked nearby. “Oh, please. I’ve seen that rust bucket you drive. You expect me to believe anything you say over my son? My family has standing in this town. You should think twice before you go around making baseless accusations.” Dylan felt the heat rising in his chest, his heart pounding in his ears. He glanced down at Molly, who was still sniffling on the pavement, her scraped knees now smudged with dirt and b
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110For a moment, Jane just stared. Then, as if recovering quickly, she plastered on a polite smile and leaned in to say something to Bobby. He followed her gaze, his broad features twisting into a smirk the second he spotted Dylan.Dylan exhaled through his nose, already regretting ever stepping foot in this restaurant.“Well, that was dramatic,” Olivia muttered, swirling her wine. “Think she saw a ghost, too?”Dylan clenched his jaw. “She’ll pretend it doesn’t bother her, but trust me—it does.”Olivia raised an eyebrow. “Oh? Sounds like you’re still in her head.”“Not interested in being there,” he shot back.Across the restaurant, Jane murmured something to the maitre d’, and within seconds, he was leading them toward a table—directly in Dylan’s line of sight. Perfect.“Great,” Dylan muttered. “Of all the tables in this place—”Olivia smirked. “Maybe she picked it on purpose.”Dylan frowned but said nothing. He refused to give her the satisfaction of knowing she got under his skin.
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109Olivia, noticing his reaction, followed his gaze toward the entrance.Then, her expression changed. She looked at him very intrigued.The air between them grew taut, the lighthearted conversation from moments ago forgotten.The restaurant noise faded into the background, leaving only the sound of Dylan’s steady, controlled breathing.Because standing at the entrance, scanning the restaurant with sharp eyes, was the last person he wanted to see tonight.Dylan’s fingers curled around the stem of his wine glass as the door clicked open. His gaze lifted instinctively, and the moment he saw who had just walked in, he felt his entire body tense.Helen.And right beside her, a massive, broad-shouldered man—Bobby.Dylan cursed under his breath. If he even had luck, it was the worst kind. Of all the people in this city, of all the restaurants, why did she have to come here? And with him?Helen was stunning as always, her dress hugging her slender frame, blonde hair styled to perfection. Sh
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108 Celeste Restaurant – A Night of RevelationsDylan’s gaze remained steady on Olivia as she fixed him with an expectant stare, waiting for his response. Her question about Lucas lingered between them, the air suddenly thick with unspoken tension.He exhaled slowly, leaning back in his chair. “Honestly, Olivia, I don’t know much about him.” His voice was even, but there was an undertone of exasperation. “In fact, shouldn’t you be the one telling me about him?”Olivia arched a brow. “Me?”“Yes, you,” Dylan said pointedly. “You’re the one who knows him, grew up with him. If anything, I should be the one asking you.”She tilted her head, lips pressing together before she gave a small chuckle. “You have a point.” Then, her expression shifted, turning sharper. “But you were also the one who accused him of poisoning me and Odile.”Dylan didn’t deny it. “I didn’t accuse him outright,” he corrected. “I just assumed—based on his behavior. He seemed off, weird, always lurking around. It felt
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107 Dylan stepped into his garage, his gaze flicking over the sleek vehicles parked inside. His prized black sports car gleamed under the dim lighting, but tonight, he wasn’t in the mood for attention. Instead, he opted for his dark gray sedan—simple, understated, and exactly what he needed.Sliding into the driver’s seat, he exhaled and started the engine. As he pulled out of the driveway, his thoughts drifted back to Helen. The look in her eyes before he left… was that disappointment? Jealousy? Or was he just imagining things?He shook his head. Focus, Dylan. It’s just dinner.The drive was smooth, city lights reflecting off his windshield as he navigated through the streets. It wasn’t long before he pulled up in front of Celeste, an upscale yet intimate restaurant known for its ambient lighting and gourmet cuisine. He handed his keys to the valet, adjusting the cuff of his shirt as he walked inside.The warm golden glow of chandeliers bathed the restaurant in a soft, inviting ligh
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106A Tense Dinner InvitationDylan adjusted his cufflinks, glancing at his reflection in the mirror. His navy-blue dress shirt fit snugly against his lean frame, and the polished watch on his wrist gleamed under the warm bedroom light. He ran a hand through his neatly styled dark hair, making sure everything was in place.His phone buzzed on the dresser. He reached for it, recognizing Olivia’s name on the screen.“Hey,” he answered.“You better not be backing out,” Olivia teased, her voice carrying a playful edge. “I even got a nice dress for tonight.”Dylan chuckled, buttoning the last cuff. “Relax, I’m on schedule.”“Good.” She sounded satisfied. “I’ll see you at the restaurant at eight. Don’t be late, Dylan.”Before he could respond, the call ended. He let out a short sigh, shaking his head. Tonight was going to be… interesting.A soft knock at his bedroom door broke his thoughts.“Daddy?”Dylan turned to see his six-year-old daughter, Molly, peeking in with wide, curious eyes. Th
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105 Lydia immediately noticed. “Oh my God, speak of the devil.” She practically bounced in her seat. “Answer it! Answer it right now!”Jane shot her a look but picked up the phone anyway. “Bobby?”“Jane.” His deep voice sent a shiver down her spine.Lydia silently squealed, shaking Jane’s arm excitedly. Jane swatted her away, trying to focus.Bobby chuckled. “Hope I’m not catching you at a bad time.”“No, not at all,” Jane said smoothly.“Good.” His voice was warm, confident. “I was wondering if you’d join me for dinner tonight.”Jane’s lips curled into a smile. “Dinner?”“Yes.” A pause. Then, with amusement, he added, “Unless you have better plans?”Lydia practically jumped in her seat, mouthing Say yes! Say yes!Jane smirked. “I think I can fit you into my schedule.”Bobby chuckled. “Glad to hear it. I’ll send my driver to pick you up at seven.”“Sounds perfect.”“I’ll see you tonight, then.”“You will,” Jane said, and with that, the call ended.Lydia erupted.“OH MY GOD!” She grab
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104 Lydia leaned forward, her expression serious. “Jane, you have to stop letting them walk all over you. I get that you don’t want to show weakness, but at some point, enough is enough.” Jane let out a dry chuckle. “Tell that to my mother. She could squeeze money out of a rock.” Lydia smirked. “Sounds like you learned from the best.” Jane rolled her eyes but didn’t argue. A tense silence settled between them again. Then Lydia spoke, her voice gentler this time. “Look, I know you don’t want to hear this, but you need to start thinking long-term. If things keep going the way they are… you won’t be able to keep up this façade forever.” Jane’s stomach twisted at the thought. She had spent years building her empire, clawing her way to the top. The idea of losing it all—of failing—was unbearable. “I won’t let it come to that,” she said firmly. Lydia studied her for a moment, then nodded. “Alright. Then we fight back.” Jane met her gaze, a fire rekindling in her eyes. “Damn right
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103Jane’s phone buzzed on her desk, shattering the tense silence that had settled between her and Lydia. She let out an exasperated sigh, already dreading whoever was on the other end. Without even looking at the screen, she reached for the device and answered in a clipped tone.“What?”A dramatic gasp sounded from the other end. “Is that any way to greet your mother, Jane?”Jane clenched her jaw, pressing her fingers against her temple. “Mother.” Her voice was flat, void of any warmth. “What do you want?”Her mother, Linda Cooper, clicked her tongue in disapproval. “Oh, so now I have to want something just to call my own daughter? Maybe I just missed you, Jane. Maybe I was worried because I haven’t seen you since yesterday.”Jane rolled her eyes. Missed me? Worried? Please. The only time her mother reached out was when she needed something—money, favors, connections. There was no maternal affection behind these calls.“I’ve been busy,” Jane said curtly.“Yes, yes, always so busy wit
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Chapter 102: A Series of Unfortunate LossesA week had passed, and Jane’s life was unraveling faster than she could comprehend.She stood in her office, staring blankly at the email on her laptop screen. Another contract. Another deal slipping through her fingers.Subject: Contract Termination NoticeDear Ms. Cooper,We regret to inform you that due to unforeseen circumstances, we must withdraw from our partnership with Cooper Enterprises. While we appreciate your business, recent developments have led us to reconsider our position. We wish you the best in your future endeavors.—Wellsworth & Pierce InvestmentsJane’s fingers tightened into fists, her nails digging into her palms. She read the email again. And again. It didn’t change. It was real.“Those bastards,” she seethed, slamming the laptop shut with a sharp thud. “What the hell is going on?”Lydia, her lawyer and closest friend, leaned against the edge of Jane’s desk, arms crossed. “Jane, I know you’re upset—”“Upset?” Jane sh