William felt annoyed when he received the news that Asher had successfully completed the real estate project that was supposed to be handled by his son. Anger burned within him, reminding him of how he should have gotten rid of Asher long ago.He was truly disgusted by the boy's behavior. He should have found and eliminated him back then, William thought bitterly.Suddenly, a man with glasses and slicked-back hair knocked on William's office door and informed him of Holmes Alexander's arrival. William allowed him to enter, smiling cynically as he looked at his partner."Is your company doing well?" William asked, making small talk for a moment."It's doing well. I just lost a gold mine from Dixon, not bankrupt like Halbert's company," Holmes answered nonchalantly, leaning back on the couch in William's office."So, the news about that company going bankrupt is true?" William became more interested. He had once invested in Halbert's company projects, but nothing went smoothly."True. T
Asher laughed a lot while talking with Alicia. She seemed to know how to entertain others. Even their conversation, which was supposed to be about work, shifted to talking about their teenage years.Here, Asher mostly stayed silent, listening to Alicia who kept talking about herself. The changes in her facial expressions, tone of voice, and even laughter blended as time passed."You know, Asher, ever since my vanilla milk had a tiny bug in it, I haven't liked vanilla," Alicia said.Asher responded with enthusiasm. "Really? So, what do you like now?"Alicia sipped her caramel latte for a moment. Her brain seemed to be working hard to figure out what she liked now. After a moment, Alicia smiled meaningfully. "Money," she said, followed by a short laugh.Asher laughed too, agreeing with what Alicia said. Nowadays, money is indeed more valuable. Without money, life would be hard and perpetually stressful."Why are you laughing? I'm not wrong, am I? Just imagine if you don't have money, yo
"Thank you for driving me home, Asher. I'm sorry if I talked too much today."Alicia smiled softly at Asher. Asher returned her smile and nodded in agreement."Be careful on the way home!"Asher nodded. "Thank you for keeping me company, Alicia. I hope the project you're working on goes well! I have to go now." Asher got into his car, and it drove away from Alicia's mansion.Kailos, who also came along, unintentionally made a statement that made Asher pause. "It seems you spend a lot of time with Miss Alicia, Sir.""We're just discussing work, Kailos."Kailos bowed apologetically, visible in the rearview mirror. "Forgive me, Sir, if I was out of line.""It's okay, Kailos," Asher replied calmly.After a while, Kailos reminded him, "There is a list of investment requests from small companies, Sir. They hope to collaborate with Dixon Corporation.""Alright, send the company data to my email," Asher replied without hesitation. "Right away, Sir," replied Kailos, taking out his phone to se
Asher stepped into the large conference room, accompanied by Aberon and Wilson. Across the long oak table, Cody Halbert sat with a tired and desperate expression. Mr. Tjoe, Asher's lawyer, sat beside Asher, ready to provide legal advice.The room felt tense. Bright lights illuminated the documents scattered on the table, while outside, gray clouds covered the sky, adding to the heavy atmosphere in the room.Asher sat calmly, staring directly into Cody's eyes. There was a palpable tension between them, two men with different goals yet bound by the same situation. Aberon, sitting next to Asher, offered a quiet gesture of support."Thank you for taking the time to meet with us, Mr. Cody Halbert," Asher opened the conversation with a measured tone. Cody nodded slowly, while Mr. Tjoe jotted something down in his notepad."Of course, Mr. Asher," Cody replied, his voice slightly trembling. "I hope we can find a mutually beneficial solution."Cody took a deep breath before continuing, "Actual
The Halbert Company was now officially owned by Asher. He felt a sense of satisfaction in acquiring something from those who had once betrayed and insulted him. After completing the purchase, the atmosphere in the Dixon Company's office, particularly in the meeting room, was quite serious. Aberon, Wilson, and Kailos sat around the large conference table. Papers were scattered across the table, and several laptops were open, displaying presentations and data related to the upcoming charity event. Asher sat at the head of the table, leading the discussion with deep focus."This charity event is very important," Aberon began the discussion. "The orphanage where Asher was once placed holds many memories and valuable lessons. I want to ensure this event goes well and has a positive impact."Asher nodded in agreement. "I agree, Dad. I want this event not only to provide material assistance but also to involve our clients and employees so they can understand the significance of this charity
Asher's thoughts turned to the social activities that had become a regular part of the company's agenda. He sat in his large leather chair while Kailos sat across from him. On the table were stacks of documents and a laptop displaying a presentation of the Dixon Company's planned social activities."Kailos, how is the progress on the usual social event invitations?" Asher asked, opening the discussion."We've sent invitations to all clients and employees. The response has been very positive. Many are enthusiastic about participating, especially since the event will be held at an orphanage that holds historical significance for the company," Kailos replied with a small smile."Excellent. I want to ensure everything runs smoothly and has a positive impact. We also need to make sure that all activities are well planned so that participants can truly benefit," Asher said, his eyes on the laptop screen displaying the detailed event plan."Mr. Asher. We are also preparing all logistical nee
The atmosphere at the orphanage where Asher once stayed was lively with various social and charity activities. The orphanage children ran joyfully around the yard, while volunteers and employees of Dixon Corporation were busy with numerous activities.In one corner of the yard, there were tents offering food, drinks, and games for the children. Another tent housed art and craft classes, filled with enthusiastic children learning to paint and create crafts.The bustling scene quieted as Luciana entered, holding Asher's arm affectionately, with Aberon loyally accompanying them. Several bodyguards stood alert in the background, ensuring the safety of the Dixon family.On the podium, the MC started the event with enthusiasm, "Welcome to the charity and social event organized by Dixon Corporation! We are gathered here to show love and support to the children at this orphanage. To start the event, let's hear from the head of Dixon Corporation's social foundation, Mr. Aberon Dixon."Aberon s
Alicia quietly smiled as she heard what Asher said. Her heart raced at Asher's awkwardness. Alicia felt happy but also confused about what to do."Asher, are you okay?" Alicia asked softly, trying to divert attention from Asher's nervousness."Ah, yes, I'm fine. It's just... I was a bit surprised by your painting. It's really beautiful," Asher replied, a bit calmer but still with a hint of nervousness in his voice.Alicia approached Asher and looked at her painting. "Thank you. I'm glad someone likes my painting. But, I prefer honest opinions because I'm not used to painting."Asher felt his heart beat faster. He swallowed and tried to regulate his breathing. "Really? But your painting is truly beautiful. You painted cherry blossoms, right?" Asher looked at Alicia's canvas. There he saw the strokes of a cherry blossom tree with beautiful pink colors."You're right. I like flowers."Asher smiled slightly, following Alicia as she led him to a shaded area with a wooden table and chairs.
Asher sat in the company’s boardroom, positioned at the head of a long table adorned with piles of documents and an open laptop. His sharp eyes tracked the presentation displayed on the projector screen, where Kailos explained the potential of the LuseCraft and Rudwick partnership. Kailos’s calm voice filled the room as he outlined the opportunities this collaboration could bring.Yet, Asher’s thoughts drifted elsewhere. He wasn’t just listening to his employees’ spoken words—he was hearing the unspoken ones, the thoughts streaming loudly from the minds of those seated around the table. Ever since discovering the magical ring, Asher’s newfound ability had proven useful, though it sometimes felt more like a curse. Today was one of those aggravating days."Rudwick? Such a small company? There’s nothing to expect from a place like that. Honestly, this is idiotic.""Why does Asher keep wasting the company’s resources on this? William would never have taken a risk like this.""He’s way too
Asher slowly removed his tie and tossed it onto the small table beside the sofa. The formal jacket he had worn earlier had already been draped over the backrest of the sofa, and now his body sank into the soft support. He massaged the stiffness in his neck, exhaling deeply, as though trying to relieve burdens that were not just physical. The room was silent, with only the faint ticking of a wall clock breaking the stillness.Asher’s thoughts wandered, but they did not settle on the numbers in his reports or the plans for developing new construction projects under Dixon’s subsidiary. Instead of focusing on those documents, his mind drifted to Alicia. Her name resurfaced in his thoughts, as if it occupied a special space that constantly demanded his attention. Asher couldn’t push it away.A small smile curved on his lips as the memory of their kiss resurfaced. His lips moved unconsciously, as though tasting again the warmth and softness that had touched them that day. "Crazy," Asher mur
In the dim corner of a bar, Waldric gulped down his drink quickly, trying to drown the bitterness of his life with every sip. His mind was full, chaotic—Asher had discarded him just like that, like a pedestrian stepping on filth in the street without a care. Waldric's gaze was filled with hatred and smoldering anger, but underneath, there was also a gnawing sense of frustration.A cold voice interrupted his thoughts. "There's no point in staying here, sulking, Waldric."Waldric looked up, narrowing his eyes at the figure standing before him—Kaylery Barnnet. A thin, meaningful smile played on Kaylery's face, his gaze like a snake ready to strike."What do you want?" Waldric's tone was defensive, his voice tinged with curiosity.Kaylery chuckled softly, unbothered, and slowly took the seat beside him uninvited. "My intention is simple. You want revenge, don’t you? Seems like we share a common enemy, Waldric."Waldric straightened up, feeling skeptical. "So, you just want to offer help?
Alicia buried her face in the pillow, her body squirming with embarrassment on the bed. The memory of the moments with Asher earlier felt so vivid, replaying in her mind like a never-ending movie. "What did I say earlier?" she thought, frustrated with herself."At least I managed to hide my feelings. I don't want Asher to feel disgusted seeing me act like that," she muttered. Alicia let out a long sigh, then stared at the ceiling of her room."What's wrong with me?" she asked softly, her voice filled with confusion. She closed her eyes again for a moment, imagining Asher’s handsome and calm face every time they met."I want Asher."That whisper felt too real, always echoing in her mind so clearly. It wasn’t just about Asher’s physical attractiveness, but his charismatic aura and decisiveness that captivated Alicia. He was a man who could lead, who could take control, and that was something Alicia had always dreamed of.A small smile formed on her lips as Asher’s image appeared in her
Asher stepped into the lobby of Dixon's headquarters with a firm stride, while Kailos waited in the corner, his face full of questions. There was a clear curiosity in Kailos's eyes about the outcome of Asher's visit to BOWWS Company.As Asher approached, Kailos couldn’t hold back from asking, "How did it go, sir?"Asher simply gave a brief smile, one whose meaning few could understand. "Smooth. BOWWS Company is now in my hands," he replied with a tone full of confidence.Kailos, who had already suspected this victory, smiled with satisfaction. "I’m glad to hear it," he said sincerely, walking alongside Asher as he began discussing other important matters. "Sir, there’s something else we need to talk about—regarding LuseCraft and your upcoming meeting with Aldric Pervaz."Hearing Aldric Pervaz's name, Asher's steps slowed. His eyebrows furrowed deeply. "Why does he want to meet with me?"Kailos paused briefly, clearing his throat lightly before answering. "He wishes to discuss a potent
Asher's schedule had changed. After his visit to LuseCraft, he was supposed to attend a meeting about renewing a contract with Jonathan. However, due to Waldric's insistence on meeting to settle the inheritance dispute, Asher had no choice but to meet him and end it as soon as possible.Asher stood facing the large window, his posture straight and his expression neutral, though the atmosphere around him felt tense. Beside him was Waldric, staring at him with eyes full of anger, as if he wanted to devour Asher alive. Waldric was clearly displeased with the changes at BOWWS Company, especially the fact that the company was now under Asher’s control.“Does being the heir give you the right to act so arrogantly?” Waldric began, his voice cold and full of hatred. “Don’t you feel greedy, Asher?”Asher merely raised one eyebrow, remaining unaffected by Waldric’s outburst. His eyes continued to gaze out the window, overlooking the courtyard of BOWWS Company, watching the employees busy with t
The soft rays of the sun slipped through the gap in the curtains of Asher's room, gradually warming the space. Asher opened his eyes, feeling refreshed after a long sleep—something he rarely got these days. He stretched his muscles, then slowly sat up, leaning his back against the headboard. His thoughts immediately drifted to the previous night—the moment when he unintentionally kissed Alicia.His lips curled into a small, almost hidden smile. For a moment, he covered his face with his hands, feeling slightly embarrassed. "What have I done?" he thought. But the more he tried to ignore it, the clearer that moment replayed in his mind.His memory took him back to when he could hear Alicia's thoughts and feelings spilling out, full of confusion and wonder. Those voices, which usually bothered him, now made him chuckle softly. He could hear how nervous and embarrassed Alicia had felt, yet at the same time, her heart had raced after their kiss.“She didn’t push me away, did she? In fact…,
Asher felt the growing awkwardness as Heinry deliberately left the two of them alone at the dining table. The atmosphere in the restaurant, which was previously filled with business conversations, now felt quiet, with just him and Alicia. Even though they often met, it felt different when it was just the two of them. Asher tried to stay calm, though Alicia’s thoughts continued to whisper in his ear. He wished he could stop his ability for a moment, to focus on the conversation, not the mix of thoughts running through her mind. Alicia glanced at him occasionally, as if waiting for Asher to start talking. Feeling awkward because of the sudden silence, Alicia finally decided to shift the topic. "What about BOWWS Company, Asher? Have you fully taken control?" she asked, her voice soft, but there was a hint of curiosity she couldn't hide. Asher sighed and placed his nearly empty glass of water down. "It should be settled," he replied, looking at Alicia. "But Waldric is still trying t
Asher sat in his newly established office, specifically created for LuseCraft, a home goods and property company under the Dixon umbrella. Since its founding, LuseCraft had just begun to take off after Halbert Company went bankrupt, especially since Asher initiated partnerships with several major players in the property industry. The primary focus of LuseCraft was to create high-quality products for home interiors, ranging from furniture and kitchenware to innovative home decor. However, the company also had ambitious plans to expand into real estate development, including luxury housing and modern apartments.With a calm and professional demeanor, Asher looked at the stack of contracts waiting for his signature. One of the most important was the partnership agreement with Rudwick Company, which had long been a leader in the property sector. This partnership was crucial for LuseCraft to gain broader market access. Asher wanted to ensure everything went smoothly, particularly regarding