As the grand white door swung open, the beautiful and luxurious VIP section of the Celestial Resort was slowly revealed. The room was a masterpiece of opulence and sophistication, designed to receive highly esteemed guests.The ceiling was high above and adorned with intricate paintings that depicted scenes from the history of the hotel. An enormous crystal chandelier hung from the center, its countless facets catching and refracting light into a dazzling display.The walls were lined with rich, dark wood paneling, each piece carefully carved with ornate designs. Between the panels were large, gold-framed mirrors and original artwork, creating a sense of elegance. Soft red velvet drapes framed the tall, arched windows, which offered a breathtaking view of the surrounding city and skyline.The floor was covered in a thick, luxurious rug, its intricate patterns and vibrant colors adding to the beauty of the room. In the center stood a long, mahogany banquet table, polished to a mirro
Nathan's lips quirked as he considered the question. "That is precisely why I have called you all here today," he replied, his gaze sweeping across the room. "I believe it is important to hear the perspectives of each of you . So, I ask you, what do you all think?" The room fell silent once more as the Presidents exchanged thoughtful glances, each considering their response with the utmost care. "Well, the Royal Corp has risen to be one of the companies in Prescott," President Dominic said, and the other Presidents nodded in agreement. "Yes, Miss Vanessa is a very smart and capable woman," President Alexander chimed in. "Really?" Nathan said, his face void of expression. Deep down, he noted that the Royal Corporation was the company the Global Triad was considering for the investment. This was the same company he was considering, not only because Vanessa had saved his life in the past, but also because she had trusted and believed in his advice to save her company from b
Ivan's brow was furrowed, his expression a mixture of frustration and disbelief as he recounted the events. "We were in the lobby waiting for you to finish up," he began, his voice tinged with a hint of frustration. "But then suddenly Nathan came out of nowhere and we got into an argument. And before you know it, he had us thrown out of the Celestial Resort!" Liam's eyes widened, his mind struggling to process the gravity of Ivan's words. "Wait, wait, wait," he interjected, his tone laced with bewilderment. "Are you telling me that Nathan didn't flee after stealing those gifts?" How could the man they had accused of theft now be the one responsible for their expulsion? Ivan shook his head, his lips pressed into a thin, grim line. "Nathan, flee?" he scoffed, his voice dripping with a mixture of disbelief and disdain. "No, he's now all high and mighty, and somehow managed to get President Alexander to treat him with such great respect. "Meanwhile, we were the ones
However, as Liam's fingers caressed Claire's hand, Claire slowly retracted it, her expression guarded. Claire was not that naïve; she recognized that Liam's desire to take their relationship to a more personal level, one that she was not yet ready for. She had just gotten out of a divorce, so she would have to think things through before she considered getting married again or being in a relationship again. Liam felt the sting of rejection, which was obvious on his face, but he quickly composed himself, his broad smile not wavering. Victoria, who had always wanted her daughter to marry a successful young man like Liam, immediately stepped in as she saw the growing tension between Liam and Claire. "You and Liam would look so good together," she said, her eyes shining with a mixture of hope and determination. "Unlike that useless and miserable loser of an ex-husband, Liam is a man worthy of your affection." Claire felt the weight of her mother's words, the unspoken pressu
Nathan looked out the helicopter's windows, his brows furrowed as he observed the dark clouds gathering. They would definitely be in danger if they were hit by a storm while in the air."This doesn't look good," Nathan murmured with a grave expression. "We need to find a safe place to land immediately."The pilot's voice remained calm as he replied, "I'm already scanning the area for the nearest suitable landing site. "There's a hotel complex about ten miles northeast that should be able to accommodate us."Nathan nodded decisively. "Make the emergency landing there. We'll have to wait out the storm and continue our journey tomorrow."The pilot acknowledged Nathan's command and adjusted the helicopter's direction, accelerating toward the hotel's location. As they approached, it became increasingly obvious that a storm was imminent, with bolts of lightning cracking through the darkened sky and the distant rumble of thunder echoing around them.Carefully, the pilot navigated the air
Nathan shook Alistair's hand, feeling a glimmer of hope. "Thank you for taking the time to see me, Mr. Carlton. "As you know, the weather conditions are severe, and moving the helicopter right now would be extremely dangerous. I'm hoping we can find a temporary solution until the storm passes."Alistair maintained a warm smile, but he was determined to get the helicopter off the helipad on the roof. The VIP guests he was expecting were major shareholders in his hotel, and he needed to treat them with the best service. "I completely understand, Mr. Nathan. The safety of our guests is very important to us. However, I'm expecting some very important guests, and the use of our helipad is essential for their arrival. "I'm afraid I must insist that your pilot relocate the helicopter to a nearby facility before the storm gets even worse."Nathan's heart sank, but he maintained his composure. "Mr. Carlton, I appreciate your position, but the storm is already getting worse. Relocating the
Liam's surprise expression was replaced by a huge frown as he glared at Nathan. "What the hell do you think you are doing here? Did anybody ask you to come in?" Liam asked angrily as he managed to compose himself.But he was visibly shaking like a thief who was caught red-handed.Nathan looked at him with furrowed eyebrows. What was he doing here? He should be the one asking him what he was doing in his hotel.“What’s going on here, Liam?” Nathan demanded, his voice firm as his eyes darted between Liam and his employee. “Why is Claire unconscious, and what has happened in this room?”Before his employee could speak, Liam immediately interrupted him. "Leave here, you fool! She is no longer your wife, and it is not your business," Liam said, pointing his finger furiously at the door, asking Nathan to leave.Liam was right; Claire was no longer his wife, so he had no responsibility whatsoever towards her. But he could not just ignore a woman lying helplessly on the bed, especially w
Andrew took another deep breath, his eyes flicking nervously between Nathan and Liam. "As I was saying, sir, I heard strange noises and came to check." When I entered the room, I saw Liam here... he was hovering over Claire, and she was unconscious on the bed. It looked like he was..." He pauded as his gaze fell on Liam who was glaring at him, bur he continued anyway."Trying to take advantage of her, he was about to pour a red wine on her body. "I pushed him away from Claire, causing him to tumble and break the vase, the red wine also ended up spilling on me"Nathan's eyes glanced briefly at his ex-wife who was lying peacefully on the bed. He also noticed the petals of flowers around the bed. Claire lay there like a gentle lamb to be slaughtered by Liam.Nathan's rage and disgust increased as he turned his gaze to Liam, his eyes shooting daggers at him. He took a deliberate step forward, closing the distance between them.With a sudden movement, Nathan landed a very big slap acr
The inauguration event finally drew to a close and dignitaries began to leave one by one. The gardens were still buzzing with soft conversations and the clinking of glasses as the evening wound down.Not long later, Nathan was escorted to the Presidential convoy. The convoy was heavily surrounded by security, and they were ready to transport him to the Presidential Villa, a place that would be their home for the next four years. Grace and Brian, standing nearby, watched as Nathan and Vanessa made their way to the lead car. Nathan turned and beckoned to them. “Come along,” he said, his voice warm, “You’re family.” Brian’s eyes lit up, and he grinned, holding tightly to his mother’s hand as they followed. The convoy rolled through the streets of the capital and citizens were cheering for their new President.Finally, they arrived at the grand gates of the Presidential Villa. Nathan’s car came to a stop in front of the villa’s main entrance.The sight that greeted them was noth
Weeks passed, and the air of Prescott buzzed with anticipation. The capital city of Prescott was adorned with banners, flags, and posters celebrating the upcoming inauguration of Lord Cloud as the new President of Prescott. It was a very grand occasion, not just for Nathan but for the entire nation. Nathan's rise to the presidency marked a new beginning in Prescott. The event would be covered by both local and global news. Nathan stood in front of the grand mirror, adjusting the navy-blue suit he was going to wear that day. His reflection stared back at him. Nathan was no longer confined to the wheelchair; he was back on his two feet and ready to rule Prescott. He flexed his fingers against the edge of the table, feeling the strength in his legs once more. He was so happy to be back on his feet. Vanessa entered the room quietly. She was wearing a sleek, ivory gown—radiating elegance. She stopped for a moment, taking time to watch her husband, the new President of Presc
“It’s Grace and Brian!” Nathan called out, turning his wheelchair slightly. Vanessa’s footsteps were almost audible as she appeared on the screen, her eyes wide with joy. “Grace!” she exclaimed, dropping down beside Nathan and leaning into the camera. She could barely hide her excitement. “How are you? How’s Novida treating you? And Brian—look at you! How was your first day at your new school?” Brian was practically bouncing now. “I love it here! My school is amazing, Vanessa! We did science experiments, and I made new friends too!” “That’s incredible, Brian,” Vanessa said, her smile genuine and warm. “I knew you’d love it.” She then turned her attention to Grace. “And you? How are you adjusting to the new job?” Grace hesitated for a moment, as she thought of the new responsibility that were now resting on her shoulders. But then, she smiled. “It’s a lot,” she admitted, “but I’m handling it."" Nathan nodded approvingly. “I never doubted you for a second. You’re more than
She let out a small smile as she reflected on the journey that had brought her here. From being a nobody in Prescott to standing as a CEO in Novida. Her fingers traced the smooth edge of her grand executive desk.Her gaze lingered on the plate where her name was engraved. Clara cleared her throat to remind her that she was still standing. “Ms. Grace, I have to go now. I have other things to attend to.” Grace nodded, offering a rare, genuine smile. “Thank you, Clara. I appreciate all your help today. You can go.” Clara bowed her head respectfully and left, leaving Grace alone in the vast, elegant office. Determined to make the most of her first day, Grace settled into the plush executive chair behind her desk. She looked at her computer. She had countless project proposals, company reports, and business forecasts to go through.She got to work immediately. Hours passed, and before she knew it, the day had long faded into evening. It was time for her to go home. Her execu
Starview was Novida's most prestigious school, attended by children of politicians and celebrities from around the world. Grace chuckled as Brian rushed amd jumped into her arms. “Ready to go?” “YES!” he practically shouted, bouncing with excitement. As the CSR moved, Brian couldn’t sit still, his face was pressed against the window as he admired the futuristic parks, towering academic buildings, and artificial lakes passed by. As they neared Starview Academy, Grace breath hitched. The school was a nothing short of luxury with it's modern architecture.They could see the beautiful gardens, hand sports fields. The entrance gates opened automatically as they approached, and a pair of well-dressed administrators greeted them with warm smiles. The main building was an architectural masterpiece of glass and steel. Its walls displayed holographic art that shifted as they walked by. “Welcome to Starview Academy, Ms. Grace. You must be Brian,” one of the administrators, Ms. Calder
The house stood gracefully, surrounded by beautiful gardens filled with exotic plants. Brian couldn’t hold back his excitement. “Mom!!! Is this... is this where we’re staying?!” Clara stepped out gracefully and opened their doors. “Welcome to your new home, Ms. Grace... Brian. This is your new residence.” Brian practically jumped out of the SUV, his mouth falling open as he drooled at the sight. “Mom, it’s... it’s HUGE!” Grace stepped out slowly, breathless for a moment. The house was a masterpiece, with solar tiles lining the roof, while smart glass panels shimmered in response to the shifting light. The front entrance opened with a soft chime as soon as Clara stood close enough. The advanced security system scanned her face and unlocked immediately. The spacious interior was even more breathtaking. The floors were shiny, and the soft lighting made the entire place even more beautiful. The living room was massive, with a very large TV, larger than anything Brian had
The jet’s engines roared to life, and the pitch increased as the aircraft began to accelerate down the runway. The onlookers watched in pained silence, their gazes fixed on the plane as it soared into the sky, climbing higher and higher until they could no longer see it. Vanessa’s breath hitched as she whispered, “They’re really gone...” Nathan slowly sighed, and after a while, they turned around and headed back to their car. The return journey was silent; the once-lively convoy felt hollow without Grace and Brian. Vanessa sat close to Nathan, and they both remained silent. Nathan stared out the window, his mind consumed by memories of Brian’s laughter and Grace’s warm smile. When they finally arrived at the Cloud Mansion, the house felt strangely empty, as though the walls themselves could feel the absence of two beloved souls. James parked the car and opened the door for Nathan. Nathan stared at the house for a long time before wheeling himself toward the entrance.
Nathan grasped his hand firmly. “President Alexander… I really appreciate you giving Grace this opportunity.” Alexander nodded. “It was the least I could do.” His gaze softened as he shifted to Grace. “Ms. Grace.” Grace stepped forward, offering a polite nod. “Thank you, Mr. President... for everything.” Alexander smiled warmly. “No need to thank me.” He then crouched slightly, meeting Brian’s curious gaze. “And you must be Brian.” Brian nodded confidently. “Are you the boss where we’re going?” Alexander chuckled. “You could say that. But something tells me you’ll be giving the orders soon enough.” Brian smiled proudly as he clutched his stuffed bear closer. Vanessa stepped forward first, embracing Grace tightly. “Remember... we’re always one call away.” Grace clung tightly like she never wanted to let go. Tears began to stream down from her eyes. “I’ll miss you so much.” Vanessa held her tightly too as she could feel the ache in her chest. "I'll miss you too." B
Grace moved swiftly as she packed her and Brian’s belongings. She checked every corner of the shared rooms to make sure they were not leaving anything valuable behind. Brian, who was now fully awake and excited, helped in his own way by stuffing his small backpack with his favorite toys, including his favorite stuffed bear. As Grace zipped the last suitcase shut, she felt a presence behind her. Turning, she saw James standing in the doorway. His expression was respectful, but she could see the sorrow in his eyes. The thought of Brian and Grace not being around anymore made his heart ache. “I’ve come to load the bags, ma’am,” James said, trying to hide the pain in his voice. “Thank you, James,” Grace replied warmly, offering him a faint but genuine smile. James immediately took the suitcases and carried them out to the car. He had seen many come and go from the Cloud mansion, but this goodbye felt the most painful. In the living room, Nathan sat in his wheelchair nea