Finally, Karla took a deep breath, gathering her courage as Julie prepared to press further. Nodding slowly, she bit down on her lip, a mixture of apprehension and vulnerability evident on her face. She knew she had to open up and share her concerns."This woman... she became his first female friend, and I feel insecure because... I think she likes Duncan too," Karla finally admitted, her voice tinged with a hint of worry. Julie's eyes widened in surprise, her initial excitement giving way to a more empathetic expression. She reached out to comfort her cousin and friend, her tone reassuring."Come on, Karla. You can't say that. No matter what, go for your love. Trust in your heart." Karla sighed, her gaze fixed on the ground as she continued to share her apprehensions."But he has a better relationship with her than me. It's hard to believe, but we actually started on a bad note," Karla confessed, her voice filled with a mix of sadness and disbelief. Julie gasped, unable to
Karla's voice trembled slightly as she confirmed, "Yes, that's Peterson Rogers." Her eyes remained fixed on the screen, her mind racing to comprehend the significance of the sight before her. Julie, sensing Karla's astonishment, inquired further, her curiosity piqued. "Hmm, who is that man kneeling in front of him?" she asked, trying to confirm her own observation. Karla nodded, her attention still captivated by the unfolding scene on the screen. Julie, as if sensing Karla's unspoken thoughts, probed deeper, seeking to understand the context. "And why is he kneeling in front of him?" Julie asked, her voice filled with intrigue and curiosity. Karla finally tore her gaze away from the screen, meeting Julie's eyes. "Peterson Rogers... he's a famous man in the city," she responded, her voice tinged with awe and a hint of disbelief. The realization that Peterson Rogers, a prominent figure, was shown in such a vulnerable position in front of Duncan, left Karla bewildered, well that
Julie was taken aback by Karla's intense reaction. She hadn't expected such a strong emotional response from her cousin."Hey, Karla, relax," Julie tried to soothe her. "I understand you're upset, but getting this worked up won't help. Duncan is okay, he's still alive." However, instead of calming down, Karla's anger seemed to intensify. She continued her tirade, expressing her desire to physically confront Peterson for what he had done."No, I can't. That filthy bag, Peterson had no right to lay a finger at Duncan. If I was there, I would have kicked his cold brain with a roundhouse kick." Her words were filled with a mix of anger and a desire for justice."Woah, chill," Julie interjected, struggling to contain her laughter. "You don't need to be this worked up over it. I mean, Duncan is fine."Julie's laughter didn't sit well with Karla, who found the situation far from amusing. She took a deep breath, trying to compose herself, and then replied, "Do Duncan and Peterson have a
Feeling a mix of nerves and anticipation, Abigail moved toward one of the wall windows, seeking a moment of solace. Her hand instinctively reached for her chest, fingers tracing the pendant of her necklace—a small source of comfort in moments of uncertainty. As the door swung open and Duncan stepped into the room, Abigail's breath caught in her throat. His presence alone had the power to momentarily freeze her in place. His voice, a familiar melody, washed over her, causing a rush of emotions to surge within her. "Hello, Abigail," Duncan greeted her, his voice carrying warmth and familiarity. However, as the sound of the door closing echoed in the room, Abigail's previous unease returned, and her expression contorted into one of anger. She remembered the worry that had consumed her when he failed to reach out earlier in the day. It seemed irrational now, but in the heat of the moment, she couldn't help but feel upset. She had decided to confront him, to let her frustrations b
Taken aback by Abigail's changed mood and staring at her clenched fist, Duncan's concerned inquiry caught Abigail off guard, momentarily breaking through her façade. His leaning forward and the genuine worry in his voice made her realize that perhaps her attempt to hide her emotions had failed.As he asked, "Abigail, are you okay?" she slowly released her clenched fists, feeling the tension easing from her fingers. She took a deep breath and composed herself, realizing that she needed to readjust her approach. Her uneasiness was apparent as she shifted in her seat, trying to regain her composure. "Um, I think it's my weariness kicking in," she replied, her voice laced with feigned vulnerability. "It happens sometimes, and I can't help it." Duncan's concern deepened, and his voice softened. "So, hearing me mention Karla's name kicked in your weariness? I'm sorry, Abigail." Feeling a mixture of emotions—frustration, disappointment, and a wave of lingering anger—Abigail forced a
Abigail's eyes widened in surprise. The gravity of Duncan's request sank in, and she understood the gravity of the consequences that could follow. She carefully considered her actions, weighing the potential impact on her own life and the ethical implications of such a drastic act. Taking a deep breath, Abigail replied, her voice filled with a mix of concern and determination. "Duncan, I understand your desire for justice, but wiping out someone's entire fortune is a serious action. It could have severe legal consequences for both of us. Have you considered the potential risks involved?" Duncan's gaze remained unwavering as he responded, his voice resolute. "I'm aware of the risks, Abigail. But I'm willing to take them. Peterson Rogers has caused irreparable damage, and I believe this is the only way to bring him to his knees." Abigail sighed, realizing that Duncan's determination was unwavering. She knew that persuading him otherwise would be challenging. "Okay, Duncan. I
As Abigail sat up on the bed lost in her thoughts, the door suddenly opened, causing her to snap out of her reverie. Linda, her assistant, and Xia, her bodyguard, walked into the room, their concerned expressions immediately catching Abigail's attention."Ms. Abigail, are you okay?" Linda inquired, her voice filled with genuine concern. Abigail couldn't help but smile unconsciously, her happiness radiating from within."Hm? What...?" Abigail blinked in confusion, momentarily unaware of the change in her demeanor."You look very happy now compared to earlier," Xia remarked, her observant nature picking up on Abigail's transformed mood. Abigail blinked again, processing their words. She realized that her internal joy had manifested on her face without her even realizing it. Quickly, she straightened her dress and composed herself, putting on a serious expression."Let's leave," she simply said, her tone commanding. With that, she walked out of the room, her companions, Linda and Xia,
At that moment, Zinnia's mind was filled with apprehension as she visualized the potentially devastating impact the video of her cleaning the kitchen could have on her self-image if Duncan decided to upload it. Overwhelmed by the fear of embarrassment and humiliation, she made a quick decision to surrender to his demands. Meanwhile, Duncan observed the situation with a smirk, thoroughly amused by Zinnia's internal struggle. He leaned back comfortably on the couch, casually whistling a tune as he awaited her response. Summoning all her courage, Zinnia forced a smile, determined to appease Duncan and avoid any further consequences. "Alright, I'll clean your shoes," she reluctantly agreed, her voice tinged with hidden frustration. Duncan nodded in satisfaction, his gaze flickering to her tightly clenched fists, relishing in her visible effort to suppress her anger. "Give me the shoes." Eager to comply, Zinnia extended her hand toward Duncan, silently urging him to hand over the s