Nicholas stopped his scooter in front of the Phoenix bank, the grand ten floor skyscraper that housed the bank for the rich.As he stepped off his scooter, he noticed onlookers staring at him with recognition. He had become somewhat of a local celebrity, and not always for the right reasons.News of Nicholas had spread across the entire city of North Hills. Rumors had been circulating that he was engaged to Adriana, the youngest daughter of the Black family, one of the most powerful families in the city. As he walked up the stairs to the bank, Nicholas overheard whispers from the people around him."Isn't that the trashy son-in-law who was married to Kimberly?" someone asked. "Heard he's now engaged to Adriana of the Black family."Another person chimed in, "What nonsense! Marcus Black would never take that piece of garbage for a son-in-law. Besides, Adriana is a vain woman with a lot of pride. She would never settle for a man like him."As Nicholas continued up the stairs, he hear
Kimberly sat behind her desk, her eyes fixed on her estranged husband, Nicholas. The air was thick with tension as Nicholas watched her in silence. Suddenly, the elevator door opened, and in walked Wendy carrying two heavy briefcases. Kimberly caught her breath as Wendy placed the briefcases on the table and opened them.Wendy's face was pale and her hands shook as she opened the briefcases to reveal neat bundles of money arranged inside. One briefcase contained five million dollars, while the other was filled with another five million in Phoenix Currency notes.The Phoenix Currency notes were brightly colored and had a unique design that made them easily distinguishable from other currencies. The currency's name was emblazoned on the bills, and it was called the Phoenix Dollar.The Phoenix Dollar has a higher value than the U.S dollar. Kimberly slowly rose to her feet, gazing first at Nicholas and then at Wendy. "Whose money is this?" she demanded.Wendy responded, her voice s
Lady Carla and Master Damian paced the living room, both looking worried about their daughter, Kimberly. They had noticed her unusual behavior that day and were concerned about her well-being.Earlier, Kimberly arrived home, looking down and sad.She went straight to her room, locking the door and not stepping outside for the rest of the day. She even refused to come down for dinner, much to the worry of her parents.Holding onto Master Damian's clothes, lady Carla told him to do something. She didn't want her daughter to die of depression, and she was scared for her. Master Damian nodded, promising to help.Suddenly, they heard Kimberly sobbing quietly in her room. Lady Carla and Master Damian exchanged worried looks before hurrying to her room.Just then, the doorbell rang, and Master Damian rushed to open it. It was Sir Harold. Sir Harold rarely ever visited their home. Lady Carla and Master Damian were surprised to have Sir Harold under their roof. They welcomed him and t
Nicholas stood before Marcus Black, feeling a sense of excitement wash over him. He hasn't felt this excited in a very long time. Marcus was seated on his favorite big chair in the living room, with his eldest son, James, sitting down beside him.The grand living room was adorned with plush seats, a large rug, and several servants waiting in the wings. The seats were arranged in a circular pattern, with the large armchair in the center where Marcus was seated. The rug beneath their feet was deep red, with intricate designs that spoke of luxury and wealth.As Nicholas entered further into the room, he saw the other elders of the Black family present, as well as Marcus's wife. Her expression was one of disapproval as she stared holes into Nicholas, making him feel uneasy.It was the engagement night between Nicholas and Adriana, and he was dressed casually for the occasion, holding two briefcases in his hands.The Black family tradition of engagement was a strict one. The father o
As Nicholas surveyed the room, noting the stunned and shocked expressions of the Black family. He couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction at the sight. It was clear that his money and power had intimidated them."Where is Adriana?" he asked in a commanding voice, his tone leaving no room for argument. "Bring me my bride this instant!"The Black family exchanged stricken looks as they struggled to comprehend the situation. Marcus turned to his wife and barked out an order, "You heard our son-in-law. Go get your daughter out here this instant."His wife hurried away, scurrying off to fetch their daughter as quickly as she could. Marcus, for his part, turned to the waiting servants and ordered them to attend to Nicholas and make sure he was comfortable.The servants rushed forward, eager to please their master's guest.They fussed over Nicholas, offering him food and drink and making sure he was settled comfortably.As Nicholas relaxed into his seat, he called out to Jack, his
Nicholas was on his way to the governor's office on his scooter, navigating through the busy streets of the city. Suddenly, a car swerved around and blocked him. Nicholas braked his scooter, almost losing his balance. He looked up and saw his wife, Kimberly, winding down her window and getting out of the car.Nicholas was surprised to see her here, but he tried to keep his composure. "What are you doing here?" he asked her."Sorry for barging in like this but I need a moment of your time," Kimberly replied.Nicholas stared at her, then smiled smugly. "What is it do you want from me?""Your time," she answered. "Just come with me.""I'll be late for an important appointment," Nicholas said. "Don't waste my time. Whatever you have to say, say it to me here."Kimberly cursed her luck. He was being stubborn. She decided to take things slow. "Can we see?" she pleaded. Nicholas saw the desperation in her eyes. "How about dinner? There's something I really want to discuss with you."Ni
The city of North Hills was buzzing with excitement as the much-awaited election day approached. The streets were abuzz with people discussing the election, and the heat of the election was palpable. The tension in the air was thick as people waited eagerly to see who would come out on top.Two major politicians, James Black and Bobby Zanker, were campaigning hard to win the election.The two men were the talk of the town, with their rallies drawing huge crowds. James Black was favored by most of the citizens, not because of his policies, but because of his association with Lord Niklaus. People were terrified of Bobby Zanker because of his infamous speech about flooding the streets with blood if he didn't win.Despite his terrifying reputation, Bobby Zanker was unstoppable because of his godfather, Lazarus Mann.Without Lazarus Mann's support, Bobby was nothing. He was completely reliant on his godfather, unable to make a move without his backing.That night, a convoy of cars pul
Nicholas was led into another luxurious room where Lazarus Mann awaited him. Lazarus Mann greeted him with a wide smile and a low bow. "Welcome, welcome, my dear friend!" he exclaimed, his eyes shining with excitement. "It's such an honor to have you here."Nicholas returned the greeting with a polite nod, taking in the opulent surroundings of the room. Lazarus Mann had spared no expense in making his guest feel welcome. The room was adorned with exquisite paintings, antique furniture, and the finest fabrics money could buy.As they settled down, Lazarus Mann leaned forward, his eyes bright with curiosity. "Forgive me for asking but how is it that Lord Niklaus isn't coming?" he asked, unable to hide his disappointment.Nicholas sipped his wine, shaking his head. "Lord Niklaus is a very busy woman. She sent me to deliver a message to you."Lazarus Mann nodded, though his expression betrayed his disappointment. He had been hoping to at least catch a glimpse of Lord Niklaus' face a