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THE STARDUST FORTUNE Chapter 188:
Racheal excused Victor and went to meet Lucas and Rickard, her attempt at cordiality met with frosty reception."You didn't tell me you'd be coming," Racheal said with forced politeness."I don't see the reason why I should," Lucas retorted curtly, his demeanor aloof as he brushed past her. Rickard followed suit, his silence echoing Lucas's indifference.Racheal's heart quickened at their dismissive attitudes, a sense of foreboding settling over her like a shroud. But she pushed aside her apprehension, determined to maintain a façade of composure in the face of their disdain."Heard Ivy's finally awake," Racheal remarked casually.Lucas's footsteps faltered at the mention of Ivy's name, his gaze piercing as he turned to face Racheal. "And how did you find out?" he inquired."I don't see the reason why I should tell you," she retorted defiantly, her words laced with defiance as she turned on her heel and made her way to join the other guests.Everyone was already seated in the grand ha
THE STARDUST FORTUNE Chapter 189: Mom Please!!
Lucas returned home that evening feeling fulfilled. Although the words of Racheal kept ringing in his ears, he didn't want to dwell too much on them. "Are you okay?" Rickard asked, seeing through him that he was somehow bothered. "Yes, I am," Lucas replied, after which he dismissed Rickard and asked him to go home. The following day would be the meeting scheduled with the members of the board at Bryan Enterprises to decide the next chairman of the company. With Ivy now awake and Praise being humiliated, Lucas was ready to ascend back to power. Rickard was about to leave when one of the security personnel walked in. "Sir, we've found out who took the D-VEX drive from your office," the man said. "Who?" Lucas asked. "It's ma'am Beautrice. I'd love to show you the evidence in the control room," the man said. Lucas and Rickard followed him to the control room where he showed them the short clip that caught Beautrice. The CCTV was a tiny camera right on the bulb in Lucas's office. E
THE STARDUST FORTUNE Chapter 190: The Summit of Truth
The grand hall of the cosmic conference was filled with vitality. Representatives from every part of the interstellar empire filled the expansive hall, their voices a soft, buzzing murmur of eagerness. The chamber's glassy walls sparkled, bending the light of far-off stars that poured in through the clear dome overhead. At the heart of everything was Alex Carter, his jaw clenched, eyes surveying the crowd of faces. He could sense the pressure of each stare directed at him. "Alex," Sophia hissed, leaning slightly toward him. "You ready for this?"He gave a small nod, though his hands tightened into fists by his sides. "As ready as I'll ever be."Luna Vega tapped the device on her wrist, her expression calculating. "Maxwell's here. Far left balcony. He’s watching us like a predator sizing up its prey."Alex didn’t need to look. He could feel Maxwell Drake's presence—a dark, unrelenting pressure in the room. His rival’s plan was already in motion, and Alex knew he had only one shot to s
THE STARDUST FORTUNE Chapter 191: A New Dawn
The majestic hall of the Imperial Citadel vibrated with excitement as delegates from throughout the galaxy convened for the festivities. Banners from every recognized colony draped from the lofty walls, and the atmosphere vibrated with a feeling of revival. Alex Carter was positioned at the front of the platform, his hands interlocked behind him, observing the audience. His image shimmered in the gleaming steel columns surrounding the room—depicting a man who carried the burden of an empire on his back. "Alex," Sophia called out, her voice rising above the chaos as she got closer, her face reflecting a blend of worry and humor. "You should be socializing, not sulking." People are starting to notice."He turned to her, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "I’m not brooding. Just... thinking.""Yeah, you always say that," Sophia quipped, folding her arms. "Listen, I know this whole ‘leader of the galaxy’ thing is new, but you’re doing fine. Better than fine, actually. But tonight isn’t
THE STARDUST FORTUNE Chapter 1: A Fateful Evening
As Alex Carter leaned over a faulty drone, the strong scent of burnt electronics permeated the air, while his experienced hands worked with careful accuracy. The repair shop's dim lighting stretched shadows over his face, emphasizing the resolve in his eyes."Get a move on, you little rascal," Alex murmured, skillfully fixing a damaged wire.Alex's face lit up with a triumphant smile as the drone's lights turned on. His brief triumph was interrupted by the sound of the shop's bell, indicating the arrival of new customers.A familiar voice filled with condescension said, "Well, well, look who it is, Alex Carter."Alex felt a wave of disappointment when he saw Claire and Fiona, his old high school classmates. They walked in casually, their high-end clothing standing out against the dirty environment."Ladies," Alex said with a polite smile. "How may I assist you?"Claire flicked her impeccably styled hair back. "Our hovercraft is experiencing some issues." Do you think you're up for it,
THE STARDUST FORTUNE Chapter 2: A Mother's Love
Walking through the sliding doors, Alex was hit by the overpowering antiseptic smell of the hospital. He acknowledged familiar staff members with a nod before his feet guided him to Room 307. He inhaled deeply, plastered on a grin, and entered."Mom," Alex softly greeted, coming closer to the bed where his frail mother lay, her eyes brightening as she saw him."Alex, my son!" she cried out, her voice feeble yet brimming with affection. I was not anticipating your presence today. Aren't you supposed to be working?"Alex pulled up a chair beside her bed. "I got off early. Thought I'd surprise you."His mother reached out a thin hand, which Alex took gently. "You work too hard, sweetheart. I worry about you.""I'm fine, Mom. Really," Alex assured her, giving her hand a gentle squeeze. "How are you feeling today?"She waved her free hand dismissively. "Oh, you know. Same old, same old. But never mind me. Tell me about your day."Alex hesitated, not wanting to burden her with the reality o
THE STARDUST FORTUNE Chapter 3: An Unexpected Proposition
As Alex made his way home, the streets of New Terra were filled with noise and movement. A flurry of concerns about his mother's medical expenses occupied his thoughts as he was suddenly drawn to a disturbance up ahead."Someone shouted, 'Eleanor Drake!'"Curiosity getting the best of him, Alex pushed his way through the growing crowd. In the center of the road was a shiny silver hovercraft, with its engine spluttering and emitting smoke.An agitated aide shouted for a mechanic while attempting to ward off the staring spectators.Alex's eyes opened wide as he identified the woman who was standing next to the vehicle. Eleanor Drake, who ranks third in wealth among all individuals in the solar system, appeared thoroughly unimpressed with her present circumstances.Suddenly, two men darted forward, tools in hand."Hey!" Alex shouted, realizing their intent. He lunged forward, grabbing one by the collar. "They're trying to steal the engine parts!"The crowd rushed forward, and the potenti
THE STARDUST FORTUNE Chapter 4: Revelations and Warnings
Alex's thoughts spun as he ascended the squeaky steps to his flat. The proposal from Eleanor Drake reverberated in his mind, enticing him with a promising opportunity. Deep in contemplation, he nearly bumped into Jared, his close friend and co-worker in the auto shop, as he descended the staircase."Wow, Alex!" Jared cried out while supporting him. "You appear as though you have witnessed a ghost." How are you doing?Alex paused for a moment before suddenly saying, "Jared, you won't believe what just happened."Jared lifted one eyebrow. "Test me out."While in the poorly lit stairwell, Alex retold his meeting with Eleanor Drake. Jared's eyes expanded with every word spoken."Hold up," Jared interrupted. "Eleanor Drake? The Eleanor Drake? And she proposed to you?"Alex nodded, still hardly believing it himself. "A marriage of convenience, she called it. For five years. In exchange, she'll pay for my mom's medical bills, my education, everything."Jared whistled low. "Man, that's... tha
Latest Chapter
Chapter 191: A New Dawn
The majestic hall of the Imperial Citadel vibrated with excitement as delegates from throughout the galaxy convened for the festivities. Banners from every recognized colony draped from the lofty walls, and the atmosphere vibrated with a feeling of revival. Alex Carter was positioned at the front of the platform, his hands interlocked behind him, observing the audience. His image shimmered in the gleaming steel columns surrounding the room—depicting a man who carried the burden of an empire on his back. "Alex," Sophia called out, her voice rising above the chaos as she got closer, her face reflecting a blend of worry and humor. "You should be socializing, not sulking." People are starting to notice."He turned to her, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "I’m not brooding. Just... thinking.""Yeah, you always say that," Sophia quipped, folding her arms. "Listen, I know this whole ‘leader of the galaxy’ thing is new, but you’re doing fine. Better than fine, actually. But tonight isn’t
Chapter 190: The Summit of Truth
The grand hall of the cosmic conference was filled with vitality. Representatives from every part of the interstellar empire filled the expansive hall, their voices a soft, buzzing murmur of eagerness. The chamber's glassy walls sparkled, bending the light of far-off stars that poured in through the clear dome overhead. At the heart of everything was Alex Carter, his jaw clenched, eyes surveying the crowd of faces. He could sense the pressure of each stare directed at him. "Alex," Sophia hissed, leaning slightly toward him. "You ready for this?"He gave a small nod, though his hands tightened into fists by his sides. "As ready as I'll ever be."Luna Vega tapped the device on her wrist, her expression calculating. "Maxwell's here. Far left balcony. He’s watching us like a predator sizing up its prey."Alex didn’t need to look. He could feel Maxwell Drake's presence—a dark, unrelenting pressure in the room. His rival’s plan was already in motion, and Alex knew he had only one shot to s
Chapter 189: Mom Please!!
Lucas returned home that evening feeling fulfilled. Although the words of Racheal kept ringing in his ears, he didn't want to dwell too much on them. "Are you okay?" Rickard asked, seeing through him that he was somehow bothered. "Yes, I am," Lucas replied, after which he dismissed Rickard and asked him to go home. The following day would be the meeting scheduled with the members of the board at Bryan Enterprises to decide the next chairman of the company. With Ivy now awake and Praise being humiliated, Lucas was ready to ascend back to power. Rickard was about to leave when one of the security personnel walked in. "Sir, we've found out who took the D-VEX drive from your office," the man said. "Who?" Lucas asked. "It's ma'am Beautrice. I'd love to show you the evidence in the control room," the man said. Lucas and Rickard followed him to the control room where he showed them the short clip that caught Beautrice. The CCTV was a tiny camera right on the bulb in Lucas's office. E
Chapter 188:
Racheal excused Victor and went to meet Lucas and Rickard, her attempt at cordiality met with frosty reception."You didn't tell me you'd be coming," Racheal said with forced politeness."I don't see the reason why I should," Lucas retorted curtly, his demeanor aloof as he brushed past her. Rickard followed suit, his silence echoing Lucas's indifference.Racheal's heart quickened at their dismissive attitudes, a sense of foreboding settling over her like a shroud. But she pushed aside her apprehension, determined to maintain a façade of composure in the face of their disdain."Heard Ivy's finally awake," Racheal remarked casually.Lucas's footsteps faltered at the mention of Ivy's name, his gaze piercing as he turned to face Racheal. "And how did you find out?" he inquired."I don't see the reason why I should tell you," she retorted defiantly, her words laced with defiance as she turned on her heel and made her way to join the other guests.Everyone was already seated in the grand ha
Chapter 187: Let my Family be
**Lucas Bryan** was surprised to see **Sonya Bryan**, **Rickard Lain**, and **Flint Lockwood** at the hospital, his brow furrowing in confusion as he addressed them."What are you guys doing here?" he asked, his tone a mix of bewilderment and concern. "I thought I told Sonya I'd be home soon."Sonya exchanged a meaningful glance with Rickard before speaking up. "This isn't just about you, Lucas. It's about Ivy," she explained, her words heavy with unspoken implications."I'm yet to believe what you told me about the doctor's report," Rickard said."It's true, Rickard," Lucas confirmed solemnly. "Ivy's condition isn't good."Rickard's anger flared at the confirmation, his resolve hardening as he spoke. "Then it's time we dig in deep and find out who really did this to Ivy," he declared. "We can't just sit back and allow her to suffer like this."Lucas immediately recalled his encounter with **Racheal Lain** at the café. "I think I know who was responsible for Ivy's abduction and how sh
Chapter 186: The Dire Condition
Lucas Bryan arrived at the hospital around 9 p.m. that evening to find the doctors conducting various checks on **Ivy.** Despite his long and stressful day, the news of Ivy's awakening compelled him to set aside any thoughts of rest and rush to her side. Ivy lay still in her hospital bed, her eyes open but her body motionless, casting a shadow of concern over Lucas's hopeful anticipation.Approaching **Stephanie** with a heavy heart, Lucas inquired about Ivy's condition."The doctors are still trying to determine the exact aftermath of Ivy's condition, but I'm afraid it may align with the initial report we received when Ivy was found," Stephanie lamented, her expression portraying every bit of worry."Don't say that, ma’am. Ivy will be fine," Lucas offered words of encouragement, hoping to instill a sense of hope amidst the uncertainty.After a few minutes, the chief of police arrived, having been informed by Stephanie about Ivy's awakening."How's she doing?" the chief inquired, dire
Chapter 185: Caller Id
Lucas arrived at the café to meet Racheal seated all by herself with a glass of alcohol. He walked up to her almost startling her, "Why are you drinking?" He asked.Racheal, her thoughts consumed by the looming threat from Victor to disgrace her mother, barely registered Lucas' presence. Without preamble, she slid the stack of papers across the table."These are the documents," Racheal said, handing them over to Lucas. He reached for his pen and quickly signed them, having already reviewed their contents earlier."Thank you, Lucas," Racheal greeted with a nod of appreciation.Lucas was expecting her departure after he had signed the documents, but Racheal lingered. "Aren't you leaving yet?" he asked."No, not yet. I'm waiting for someone," Racheal replied, her gaze wandering towards the entrance."Lucas could already sense whom Racheal was waiting for, prompting him to anticipate the unfolding of events. He knew it was the person who had asked her to have him sign the documents for he
Chapter 184: Final Farewell
As the morning sun cast its golden glow over the quiet streets of Malibu, Sonia took it upon herself to drive Flint and his sister to the train station, determined to see them off and bid them a final farewell."I'll miss you, Flint," she said, her voice tinged with sadness as she shared a warm embrace with him, her heart heavy with the weight of impending separation."I'll miss you too, Sonia," Flint replied, his voice filled with genuine affection as he returned her embrace.Flint felt a lump form in his throat as he struggled to find the right words to express his feelings. "I'm really sorry for everything that happened between us. I—" But before Flint could continue, Sonia gently hushed him, placing a finger across his lips."You've already apologized, and I've forgiven you," she reassured him, her voice filled with compassion and understanding."Thank you so much," Flint replied, his gratitude evident in his eyes as he met Sonia's gaze."And just in case you change your mind, you
Chapter 183: Attempted Murder
Racheal was surprised, wondering why Lucas would look into her purse. Even if she knew that Lucas was at the verge of finding out about her involvement in Ivy's kidnapping, she needed to create some elements of doubt all the same."Why would you check my purse?" Racheal blurted out angrily."So you had a hand in Ivy's abduction. You're such a disgusting lady, Racheal." Lucas snapped at her, throwing the documents at her."And it didn't even end there, you also made an attempt on her life. You're despicable!" Racheal's brows furrowed at Lucas's false accusation of her having made an attempt on Ivy's life."What are you talking about?" Racheal asked, the surprised look on her face enough to convince Lucas that she had no idea what he was talking about."Stop playing innocent, Racheal. You and I know it's true. You tried to kill Ivy." Lucas said with so much anger in his voice."I won't sit back and watch you accuse me of something I didn't do, Lucas." She snapped back angrily."I won't
