"You know what, you're right—I do belong here," Alex said, locking eyes with Florence. "Anything else you need?"Florence's lips twisted into a sneer. "In case that thick skull of yours hasn't figured it out, I'm insulting you, you worthless drifter."“It's a free country, ma'am. You're welcome to say whatever you like.” Alex shrugged lightly. “Doesn't mean I have to take offense.""You pitiful excuse for a man," she spat. "Do you really think ignoring me keeps your dignity intact?"“In my view, you’re poorer than I am. Why should I feel insulted by someone who’s not worth my time?”“You’re shameless,” Florence hissed. “I wish you’d just disappear!”His smile turned icy. “And I wish you a long life—to savor your bitterness even longer.”Florence’s face flushed crimson.Rising abruptly, she called out across the restaurant, “Owner! Is this how you let your staff treat paying customers? This man is insulting me!"From the kitchen, Josephine slammed down a pan and marched over, her eyes
A few days later, Alex and Sophia arrived at the grand banquet hosted by the Lancaster family.The opulent hall was abuzz with anticipation.Amelia Lancaster had organized the event to announce the acquisition of BioHealth Solutions from Roland and to unveil its rebranding under the Lancaster Group.And their partnership with Kingston would send ripples through Vancouver's business community, marking the Lancasters' bold expansion into something greater.Whispers filled the room about Jasmine Kingston's attendance."Why do we have to be here?" Sophia sighed, glancing at her father, Justin.He adjusted his tie, his expression firm. "This is our family's banquet, Sophia. We need to show face.""But they've already pushed us out," she protested softly."Regardless, we must attend," Justin insisted."Our livelihood depends on the Lancaster Group's shares. Imagine what would happen if your grandmother decided to cut us off entirely."Nearby, Florence cast a disdainful look at Alex. "You sh
"I don't know," the accountant muttered. "Give me a moment to figure this out."Peter turned to Alex, confusion and a flicker of fear in his eyes.Could Alex truly be behind this catastrophe, or was it merely a terrible coincidence?Before he could dwell on it, his phone buzzed urgently. He snatched it up."Father?""You bastard!" his father's furious voice exploded through the line."What have you done? Our family's assets are frozen, and we're under investigation! Do you realize the magnitude of this disaster? If you don't fix this immediately, we're finished!""Wait, Father! Please, tell me what's happening," Peter pleaded, panic tightening his chest."Who the hell did you offend? Alfred kingston's got our assets frozen and says he’s launching an investigation into all our businesses and accounts. Do you think we can withstand that kind of scrutiny? They’ll dig up everything, and we’ll all end up in prison!" his father’s voice boomed with desperation.A softer, trembling voice came
Sophia stood at the centre of the banquet hall, her eyes fixed on Alex, who lingered unobtrusively in the corner.Words caught in her throat as confusion and disbelief swirled within her.How had Alex managed to make Peter Smith, of all people, tremble with fear?Even the powerful Lancaster family couldn't command such a reaction from him.Watching Peter's desperate pleas, she was certain Alex must have tricked him somehow—probably with his usual swagger and exaggerated tales.He was, after all, the king of braggarts.At least she hadn't been gullible enough to fall for his antics like poor Peter had."Peter, please stand up. People are watching," Sophia urged softly, a flush of embarrassment creeping up her neck.Peter remained kneeling, his head bowed low."Miss Sophia, I beg you—promise me you'll help secure Mr. Alex's forgiveness. Only then will I rise.""Fine, fine," she relented, hoping to end the spectacle. "Just get up."Nearby, Malvin, Mike, Amelia, and other members of the L
Sophia sat across from Alex on a cozy sofa in the café, her fingers nervously entwined in her lap."Alex," she began softly. "I want to apologize for everything I've done to you."Alex looked at her with gentle curiosity. "Why?"She took a deep breath. "I've realized that so much of my pain comes from clinging to how I think things should be, instead of accepting what they are. I regret not listening to my grandfather."He offered a reassuring smile. "It's okay."Gathering her courage, she confessed, "I... I don't have our signed divorce papers.""What do you mean?"She bit her lip, hesitating before continuing."When I was planning to marry Chris, he said he'd handle the divorce papers and the marriage certificate. I thought after everything that happened, he wouldn’t send them. But I never received any confirmation."Alex remained silent."That means we're still husband and wife," Sophia whispered, her cheeks flushing.He leaned forward slightly. "And if he already sent them?"She s
"Sophia! What on earth are you doing here?” Olivia Lancaster burst into the café.“Everyone’s been looking for you!"Before Sophia could respond, Olivia grabbed her arm with an impatient grip."Grandmother wants to see you. Now," she demanded, her tone dripping with irritation.Taken aback by her cousin’s abruptness, Sophia pulled her arm free. "Olivia, what’s going on? Why are you acting like this?"Olivia scoffed, crossing her arms. "Don’t play innocent. You disappear when the family needs you most? Typical.""Disappear?" Sophia echoed. "I wasn’t aware anyone needed me.""Maybe if you paid attention to something other than yourself, you’d know," Olivia snapped.Alex glanced between them. "Perhaps you should explain what’s happening."Olivia shot him a withering look. "You loser, this is a family matter. Stay out of it."Sophia squared her shoulders. "Alex is my husband. Anything involving me involves him.""Fine," Olivia huffed. "Just hurry up. You’re holding everyone else back."Re
"Quickly, Sophia! Kelly Kingston only gave us ten minutes." Amelia grabbed Sophia's hand and hurried her toward the hall.Earlier, Amelia had persuaded one of the board executives to delay Kelly's departure, convincing her to wait just a few more minutes.Now, as they entered the hall, Kelly was already preparing to leave."Miss Kingston!" Sophia called out urgently.“My grandmother wanted me to inform you that I’ve been appointed CEO of Lancaster Group. I’ll be handling the partnership with Kingston Group directly. We hope you’ll consider giving us another chance.”Kelly turned, "Well, if you're personally managing Lancaster Group as CEO, then there's no issue. But let me be clear—if anyone else steps in, the deal is off.”“This partnership isn't a game where you can place just anyone in charge without competence." Her gaze shifted sharply toward Amelia and the Lancaster team, a clear warning evident."Thank you so much, Miss Kingston," Sophia said sincerely.It almost felt as though
"Lyra, where have you been? You left the table ages ago."Oscar's voice cut through the soft chatter of the banquet hall as he approached, his eyes darting suspiciously between her and Alex.He noticed how closely she stood to Alex, a subtle lean that made Oscar's jaw tighten.Lyra turned to face him, her expression shifting from sultry to cool indifference. "Must I report my every move to you, Oscar?"He bristled."Well, we came here together, didn’t we?" His tone was laced with jealousy.Oscar had pursued Lyra for years, longing to win over one of Vancouver’s most renowned beauties.Their relationship had seemed promising, especially after he’d invested in her business.Alex observed the exchange, noting the swift transformation in Lyra's demeanor—from a seductive vixen to a poised, unyielding queen—as she confronted Oscar.Now he clearly understood why people said a man wants a lady in the streets and a freak in the sheets."That doesn't give you the right to question me," Lyra rep
“Marry you?” Alex’s eyebrow arched sharply, his frown deepening.The number of women wanting to marry him could fill a line so long, it’d make the biggest encyclopedia look tiny in comparison.“Do you even love me?” Alex asked, his tone flat.“I love money—and especially your money,” Lyra replied, straight-faced.“You know, in the end, women always have to make a choice: marry the man they love or marry the man who loves them and learn to love him later.”Lyra shrugged, her expression unapologetic.“I can let you stay around me, love me, and pamper me. Just like you did with Sophia. Your love is so... unattached. I’d even give you the honor of loving me.”“Has anyone ever told you that you have an unbelievably thick face?” Alex said, his tone laced with incredulity.‘This woman is sometimes fugitive, deceptive, sharp, ravenous, fierce, and cruel; she also possesses a great spirit.’Lyra’s lips curled into a teasing smile, her gaze unflinching.“With all the layers of makeup I wear, I’
That morning, the Lancaster mansion was anything but peaceful.In the grand living room, Florance stood in front of Justin, practically shaking with anger.“You’re worthless as a father!” she shouted. “All you do is sit around watching garbage on TV!”Justin frowned, more irritated than surprised. “What do you want from me?”“How about acting like a dad for once? Our daughter is in trouble over that massive loan. You need to help figure out a solution!” Florance’s frustration bled through her every word.Justin let out a tired sigh. “And what exactly do you expect me to do?”“Look at the bigger picture! Your brother is already waiting for Sophia to fail so he can give Mike her position in the company. We can’t let that happen!”Rolling his eyes, Justin scrolled aimlessly on his phone. “I don’t have that kind of money, and you know it.”Florance glared at him. “You’re good for nothing except your so-called manhood!”“Fine!” Justin snapped. “What do you want me to do?”“Marco Ashford,”
Sophia picked up the menu and glanced over at Lyra, her mind spinning with confusion.There was Lyra, practically leaning against Alex, an intimacy that would make any observer assume they were the married couple, not her and Alex.“Alex, I bet this is your first time here,” Lyra said brightly.“Sophia and I have VIP status at this place. Let me recommend a few dishes—I’m sure you’ll love them.”Alex managed a polite smile. “Thanks.”Lyra beamed, flipping through the menu. “Order whatever you like. Don’t worry about the bill, I’m covering it tonight.”Sophia nearly choked.Lyra—stingy, penny-pinching Lyra—offering to pay? For a man, of all people?Lyra never spent her money on men.Every luxury in her possession was typically gifted by them.This was the first time Lyra had ever offered to foot the bill for a man.Sophia narrowed her eyes. “Lyra… are you feeling alright? Did you forget to take your meds this morning?”Lyra raised a cool eyebrow. “What’s with the shock, Sophia? I’ve al
Inside the car’s quiet interior, Sophia leaned her head against the window, her mind drifting back to the stranger who’d come to her aid earlier.Could it be fate?Was this mysterious figure the soulmate she’d always dreamed about—the one who would stand by her forever?She breathed out heavily, shaking the thought away.She didn’t even know him.“You don’t look happy,” Alex said, breaking the silence.Sophia managed a faint smile.“On the contrary, I’m very happy. Someone paid a hundred million for me, clearing the loan that haunted me and the Lancasters.”Alex smiled, his heart lightening.He was glad to see his wife finally accept the help.Later this noon, as she drifted into sleep, he gently healed her and pulled a blanket over her, making sure she was warm and comfortable.Meanwhile, behind the scenes, he’d ordered Carlos to take control of the entire Black syndicate.Charles Cole, Cathy Black, Bruno Black—their fortunes and futures now lay quietly in his hands.“I’m glad you’re
Alex burst into Kingston’s penthouse office, heart pounding.Just moments earlier, Jasmine had called him in tears—something he never thought he’d witness from her.Inside, the tension felt thick as smoke.Jasmine was curled up on the plush leather sofa, her face buried in her trembling hands.Nearby stood Kelly, tapping briskly on her smartwatch.The instant Jasmine spotted Alex, she sprang from the sofa and flung herself into his arms, sobbing so hard he could feel the quake of it through his chest.This wasn’t the poised, controlled Jasmine he knew; this was someone shattered, clinging to him like he was her only lifeline.“Jasmine,” he murmured, fighting to keep his voice steady, “what happened?”She couldn’t answer, her sobs stealing her words.Instead, he turned to Kelly, who regarded them both with a cold detachment.“Kingston just lost about a billion dollars,” she said flatly.A billion?The number slammed into Jasmine like a punch. Her cries intensified, her grief pouring ou
A few minutes earlier, Bruno Black had been furious the moment he received the text message from his sister.“Who dares to threaten my sister? Do they not fear the Black Syndicate?” Bruno growled angrily, seated in the back of the limousine.He turned his rage toward his private bodyguard.“Brad, we need to show them who we really are and take control of Vancouver's underworld!”“Yes, Sir,” Brad replied meekly.“It’s because of your meek personality that people look down on us!” Bruno snapped, glaring at him.Brad nodded. “I am sorry, boss.”“You... If it weren’t for your big body, no one would hire you!” Bruno’s anger grew sharper. “Talking to you is like talking to a big, stupid bull!”“Yes, sir.”Bruno angrily slapped Brad. “Just shut your mouth. You’re pissing me off!”Brad only nodded again, silent as ever.If Brad weren’t over two meters tall and didn’t move like a freight train, Bruno wouldn’t have kept him around.The man could act as a meat shield when needed, and that was re
Alex hesitated. "But—""No buts. This is a family matter," Charles cut him off sharply."Alright," Alex sighed, stepping back, unwilling to get involved in what he now saw as a tangled web of domestic chaos.Charles turned his attention back to Cathy, yelling furiously, "Don’t you think I don’t know what you’ve done behind my back? You threatened and tortured everyone connected to me! Including my ex-girlfriend! You’re nothing but a sadistic monster!"His fists slammed into her motionless body, each blow carrying years of pent-up anger."Do you know how much pain you’ve caused me? You think money can fix this? What’s the point of money if I can’t find happiness?!"He picked up a vase from the corner of the room, his face twisted in pure hatred. "You think I’m your worker, your slave, your damn toy?!"With a final roar, he smashed the vase against her body, shards scattering across the floor.As the silence settled, Charles stood over Cathy’s limp form, chest heaving.The room was litt
Cathy Black laughed as she fired all of her shot, yet only to freeze in disbelief.Alex stood before her, unscathed—no bullet hole, not even a scratch."Impossible," she gasped, her eyes widening.She glanced at her gun, empty now, as the hollow click confirmed her worst fear.Alex’s lips curled into a cold smile. "You’re truly lucky, I don’t hit women."He turned away, striding toward Charles, who was trembling near the wooden table."But you," Alex continued, grabbing Charles by the shoulder, his grip firm as iron, "you hit my wife. Seems like you’re good at hitting women.""No! No, I’m not!" Charles stammered, his body quaking like a leaf.Alex’s voice dropped, a venomous edge creeping into his tone."Your wife hit my wife. Don’t you think it’s only fair you take the hit as payment?"Without waiting for an answer, Alex slammed his fist into the sturdy wooden table beside him.The deafening crack echoed in the room as the table split clean in two, the pieces scattering across the fl
“Who the hell are you?” Charles snarled, voice cracking into a shrill pitch.“If my wife says she’s going to die, then she’s going to die!”Alex stepped into the office, calm and deliberate.His eyes swept over the scene before settling on Sophia.Even from across the room, he could see her condition was anything but normal.She looked drugged, unsteady, and vulnerable.“Get your filthy hands off my wife,” Alex said quietly.His voice was steady and low, yet it carried a firm authority that made everyone pause.Cathy almost laughed out loud, disbelief flickering in her eyes.She prided herself on never feeling fear, but when she met Alex’s gaze, a strange chill gripped her.For the first time in years, her knees weakened, and her hands trembled.She released Sophia’s hair, letting the young woman slump back onto the sofa.“Good,” Alex murmured, moving closer to Sophia.Cathy studied him, unsettled.He seemed like any fit young man—handsome, maybe—but nothing special.Still, something