Chapter Fifteen: Stephany’s Proposal Considered. Chris woke up early the next morning, determined to make the day better for Stephany. He moved quietly through the kitchen, preparing a breakfast that he hoped would bring a smile to her face. Pancakes, eggs, bacon, fresh fruit—he arranged everything meticulously on the table, adding a vase with a single rose for a touch of elegance. As he finished, Stephany walked into the kitchen, her eyes widening in surprise. "Chris, what's all this?" "Just a little something to start your day off right," he said with a smile. "I wanted to wish you well today. I know you have a lot on your plate." Stephany's face softened, and she approached the table. "Thank you, Chris. You’re beginning to improve these days." They sat down to eat, and for a few moments, the tension between them eased. Stephany savored each bite, feeling the love and effort Chris had put into the meal. "This is delicious," she said, giving him a thumbs up. "You sho
Chapter Sixteen: Unjust Accusations Henry Preston stormed into MTD Entertainment Company with a determined stride, exuding confidence and arrogance. His eyes scanned the sleek, modern lobby, remembering the sting of his previous rejection. Today, he was here to conclude the partnership deal, convinced that his proposal would finally receive the acknowledgment it deserved. As he approached the receptionist, she greeted him politely. "Good morning, Mr. Preston. How can I assist you today?" "I'm here to see Mrs. Grace, the manger about finalizing the partnership deal between MTD and Preston Empire," Henry announced, his tone brooking no argument. "One moment, please," the receptionist replied, picking up the phone to call Mrs. Grace. Henry waited impatiently, tapping his foot. Moments later, Mrs. Grace emerged from the back office, her expression neutral but firm. "Mr. Preston, please follow me," she said, leading him to a conference room. Once seated, Henry wasted no
Chapter Seventeen: Desperation and Disappointment Grandma Preston sat in her study, her mind a whirlwind of thoughts and worries. She was deeply disappointed in Stephany, not because she believed Henry’s baseless accusations, but because the situation with MTD Entertainment House was not resolved in their favor. She needed that partnership for the survival of Preston Empire. Sighing heavily, she reached for her cup of tea, only to be interrupted by a buzzing sound from her phone. She picked it up and saw a message notification. Her heart sank as she read the disturbing news: the shipment of products from China, meant for their newly signed talents, had gone missing in the Atlantic Ocean. “No, no, no,” she muttered, her hands trembling. This was a disaster. Without those products, their launch would be in jeopardy, and the losses would be catastrophic. She stood up and paced the room, the gravity of the situation weighing heavily on her shoulders. Preston Empire needed a b
Chapter Eighteen: Desperate Measures Henry paced the length of his room, his mind racing. The image of Grandma Preston's disappointed face haunted him. He had to fulfill her wish and secure the partnership with MTD Entertainment House by evening, when her birthday celebration was scheduled. The pressure was immense, and Henry felt his desperation growing with each tick of the clock. He decided to take a different approach. Calling Stela, his young and beautiful cousin, he laid out his plan. "Stela, I need your help. We’re going to MTD again, and this time, we're not taking no for an answer." Stela, always eager to help her family, agreed without hesitation. "Whatever you need, Henry. Let's do this." Together, they arrived at MTD Entertainment House, their determination clear. As they entered the grand lobby, Henry straightened his suit and took a deep breath. He was ready to do whatever it took. Approaching the receptionist, he demanded to see the manager, Mrs. Grace.
Chapter Nineteen: A Lunch Date with Intentions Stephany decided to focus solely on her work, determined to make Luxury Flair shine at the upcoming fashion week. She had been in her office all morning, reviewing designs and coordinating with suppliers. Her desk was piled with fabric swatches, sketches, and a half-empty cup of coffee. The phone rang, cutting through the concentrated silence. "Hello?" she answered, not taking her eyes off a particularly intricate sketch. "Stephany, it's Bradley," a familiar voice said. "I was wondering if you'd like to join me for lunch today?" Stephany hesitated. She had no plans to leave the office today. There was too much to do. But then she remembered the Blue Emerald Cartier Necklace Bradley had promised. She couldn't afford to offend him, especially when he had spent a fortune on that rare piece of jewelry. "Sure, Bradley. Where should we meet?" she replied, forcing a cheerful tone into her voice. "De Empress Kitchen. I'll be wa
Chapter Twenty: An Encouragement to Shine Chris returned home late in the evening, exhausted but eager to see Stephany. As he entered their modest apartment, he noticed the living room lights were dimmed and a serene quietness filled the space. He quietly approached the bedroom, pushing the door open to find Stephany sleeping soundly, still in her clothes from the day. It was clear to him that she had waited up for him but had eventually succumbed to fatigue. His heart softened at the sight. He felt a pang of guilt for making her wait, for all the stress and strain his presence—or lack thereof—had caused her. He sat gently on the edge of the bed and whispered, "I'm so sorry, Steph. I didn't mean to make you wait." He brushed a strand of hair away from her face, and as if on cue, Stephany stirred. Her eyes fluttered open, and she blinked a few times, adjusting to the low light. "Chris? You're back," she said, her voice thick with sleep. "Yeah, I'm back," he said s
Chapter Twenty One: An Unexpected Announcement The party was in full swing, the grand hall filled with laughter, chatter, and the clinking of glasses. The atmosphere was electric, with everyone immersed in the festivities. However, one person stood apart from the joyous crowd, Henry Preston. His eyes flicked anxiously to his phone every few minutes, waiting for the message from MTD Entertainment that would bring him the good news he desperately needed. The minutes dragged on, each passing second a reminder of the uncertainty hanging over him. As the night progressed, it was time for the gifting ceremony. One by one, family members and close friends approached Grandma Preston to present their carefully chosen gifts. The crowd buzzed with anticipation, each gift a testament to the respect and love they held for the family's matriarch. Mr. Bradley West stepped forward, holding a beautifully wrapped package. He approached Grandma Preston with a confident smile, the kin
Chapter 22. A shocking surprise Seeing as the Representative insisted on meeting him first, Grandma urged Henry to meet them and hear what they have to say first. She vaguely believed it had something to do with the collaboration with MTD Entertainment, with no doubt that her grandson was able to secure the deal. ‘Maybe they needed to be clear on something’s and finalize it before wit’s announced.’ She thoughtAnd sent Henry to meet them. As he approached the representatives, his confident smile quickly faded when he saw that there were two officers standing with the representatives.“What's the update?" Henry asked, trying to mask his anxiety.The lead representative, a stern-faced woman, handed Henry an official notice. “Mr. Henry Preston, you are being reported for attempted blackmail and defamation of the president of MTD Entertainment. You are required to come to the station for questioning immediately."Henry's face went pale. "What? There must be some mistake. Please, can