Chapter Forty-TwoHenry woke up to the soft morning light filtering through the curtains. The empty side of the bed told him Jasmine had already left. He sat up, stretching, when his eyes caught a note left neatly on the nightstand.*Gone to work. Have a great day. Love you.*He smiled, shaking his head in admiration. Even though she had barely slept after yesterday’s chaos, she had still risen early to take on her new responsibilities as chairwoman of Woods Empires. He knew how much this meant to her, but he also knew the toll it would take.Jasmine was determined, no doubt, but the staff at Woods Empires weren’t going to make it easy. He had overheard them yesterday—disrespectful whispers, cold stares, and blatant disregard for her authority. They didn’t see her as the powerful woman she was. But instead of reacting, she had buried herself in her work, focusing on the mountain of documents and laptops that covered her desk.Henry admired that about her. She didn’t let anyone get und
Chapter Forty-ThreeAs the group of wealthy socialites sat in the lavish café, sipping their expensive teas, one of them eyed Henry curiously. She leaned in toward Henry’s mother-in-law, her voice dripping with skepticism."Stop lying," she said, smirking. "Everyone knows your first and only son-in-law is an orphan and a poor nobody. How can he be anything more?"Henry’s mother-in-law’s face flushed with embarrassment. Her mouth opened, and for a second, she was lost for words. The socialite had hit a nerve, and she could feel the weight of the women’s judgmental stares pressing down on her."I am not lying!" she said, her voice rising in defense. She shifted uncomfortably in her seat, trying to maintain her composure. "Actually, Henry can be considered my *ex* son-in-law. My beautiful daughter has found a new match, someone much more worthy."The group leaned in closer, their eyes gleaming with curiosity. One of them, a woman with diamond-studded sunglasses perched on her head, laugh
Chapter Forty-FourThe ride back from the mall had been quiet until Henry’s mother-in-law’s phone rang. She picked it up with a quick, irritated motion, glancing at the screen. When she saw the caller ID, her eyes narrowed."What is it now?" she muttered before pressing the phone to her ear. Her face quickly shifted from annoyance to shock as she listened."You’re telling me all of it is gone?" Her voice cracked. "How could this happen?"Henry kept his eyes on the road, pretending not to listen, but it was impossible to ignore. His mother-in-law’s face drained of color as she continued the conversation, her fingers gripping the phone so tightly her knuckles turned white.It seemed the elite women’s association had just discovered that their overseas investments, which they had poured their money into, had been part of a scam. This was their prized "get-rich-quick" scheme, a way to fund their lavish lifestyles, designer bags, and shoes. The news hit her like a freight train."Turn the
Chapter Forty-FiveThe hum of the luxury car engine announced his arrival before anyone saw it. The Prince of Dubai’s limousine pulled up in front of the bank, its glossy black surface gleaming under the sunlight. It was the kind of vehicle that made people stop and stare—long, sleek, and extravagant, as if it were a mobile palace. The length alone made it look more like a moving apartment than a car. As the doors opened, his chauffeur stepped out with precision, quickly rolling out a long red carpet across the sidewalk. His voice boomed across the entrance as he called out, “The Prince of Dubai is here!”Heads turned in unison, gasps escaping the crowd of women gathered outside. Henry stood silently in the background, watching the spectacle unfold with mild amusement. But the women, especially his mother-in-law and her elite friends, were almost vibrating with excitement. Their eyes were wide with anticipation.The Prince emerged gracefully, his pristine white gown flowing with e
Chapter Forty-SixAs the black limousine returned, the crowd of women perked up, hoping for another chance to be graced by the presence of the Prince of Dubai. But when the door opened, a chubby, middle-aged Arabian man stepped out. His face was round and flushed, and he appeared uncomfortable in his ill-fitting suit. His eyes darted nervously around the crowd, but he tried his best to maintain composure."Good afternoon, ladies," he began, his voice shaky. "The Prince of Dubai sends his deepest apologies. A national issue arose that required his immediate attention, but he has sent me in his place to assist with your concerns."The women exchanged disappointed glances, sighing in unison. One of them muttered, "He’s too nice for that silly behavior, running off like that."Henry’s mother-in-law, however, didn’t miss a beat. Her face morphed back into its usual arrogant expression. She puffed out her chest, standing a little taller, and said with pride, "I told you all! The Prince wi
Chapter Forty-SevenDon Volko’s towering presence seemed to darken the room, his menacing grin spreading as he approached Henry’s mother-in-law. His thick fingers gripped the pliers, and with a lazy flick of his wrist, he motioned for his men to grab her. Two burly guards moved forward without hesitation, grabbing her arms roughly, forcing her to kneel in front of the Don. “You think you can demand your money back?” Don Volko sneered, his voice a low growl. He gripped her hand with the pliers, tightening the jaws of the metal tool just inches away from her fingers. “I didn’t steal your money—I took it. And now I’m going to use it to buy myself a new yacht. And guess what? There’s nothing you or any of your little friends here can do about it.”His words sent shivers down the spines of everyone present, the terror in the room thick and suffocating. He leaned down, his eyes cold and full of malice. “I think it’s time I leave a mark on you all, a reminder. Let this serve as a warning
Chapter Forty-EightThe room had fallen into a tense, frozen silence the moment Mr. Anderson walked in. His presence alone had commanded the kind of respect that even Don Volko couldn’t ignore. Henry immediately understood the signal from Mr. Anderson, glancing toward him for just a second before averting his gaze, pretending not to know him.Don Volko, on the other hand, was visibly rattled. He knew who Mr. Anderson was—everyone in the business world knew. Mr. Anderson was the right-hand man of the most powerful and mysterious figure on the continent, a man whose mere whisper could change the course of a nation’s fate. The man behind the prestigious HEXAGON CONSORTIUM, a multi-billionaire so powerful, rumors swirled that he could pick and choose who became the president of the country with just a phone call. Volko, who considered himself a big player, suddenly realized he was nothing more than a speck of dirt in front of someone like Anderson. His hands began to tremble, and sweat
Chapter Forty-NineDon Volko, the once-feared tycoon, was on his knees, his hands trembling as he clutched Henry’s leg. His voice cracked as he shouted at his men, “Get the first aid kit! Bring the best doctors—now!” Tears streamed down his face as he begged Henry for mercy. His desperation was palpable, his voice shaky and pitiful.The men rushed around frantically, their former arrogance replaced with panic. They couldn’t believe what they were seeing—their fearless leader, groveling at the feet of a man they had once ignored. The tension in the room was so thick, it was hard to breathe. Even the women, who had just moments ago insulted Henry, stood frozen, wide-eyed and stunned by the turn of events.Don Volko’s voice wavered. “Please, forgive me! I didn’t know who you were! I didn’t realize… I didn’t understand!” His words tumbled out in a frantic rush. He clung to Henry’s leg as if his life depended on it. In truth, it probably did. Everyone in the room watched in disbelief.
The penthouse was dimly lit, the warm glow of candles casting flickering shadows across the room. Jasmine walked in cautiously, her breath catching at the sight before her. The space had been completely transformed. A trail of red rose petals led from the entrance, winding through the living room and up the stairs, each step illuminated by soft tea lights. The faint scent of jasmine and vanilla filled the air, mingling with the sound of a slow, sultry jazz melody playing in the background.Her heart raced as she followed the trail, her bare feet brushing against the soft petals. At the top of the stairs, the double doors to their bedroom were ajar, and golden light spilled through the crack. She pushed them open slowly, her eyes widening as she stepped inside.The room was bathed in a soft, golden glow. More candles lined every surface, their light dancing against the silk-draped canopy of the bed. A bottle of champagne sat chilling on a nearby table, two crystal flutes waiting beside
Jasmine stood in front of the large window of their penthouse, gazing out at the glittering city lights. The night was quiet, but her heart wasn’t. It raced with an unexplainable tension that had built over the evening. Her fingers traced the edge of the silk robe she wore, the fabric light against her skin, yet somehow carrying the weight of her anticipation.Behind her, she felt the faintest shift in the air—a presence. She didn’t need to turn to know it was Henry. She could feel him, his energy wrapping around her like an invisible tether. “I couldn’t find you in bed,” he said, his voice low and husky, sending a ripple down her spine. “Were you thinking about me?”Jasmine smiled, her reflection meeting his in the glass. “Always.”The sound of his bare feet on the hardwood floors was soft, yet every step he took made her pulse quicken. In moments, his arms wrapped around her waist, his chest pressing against her back. She let out a small gasp as his lips brushed against her shoulde
Jasmine sat by the window, her legs curled beneath her as the late afternoon sun bathed her in its golden light. She gazed out at the city below, her heart still racing from the memories of the morning. Her fingers absently traced the edge of the glass, the coolness grounding her as her mind swirled with thoughts of Henry.She hadn’t known it could feel like this—so overwhelming, so consuming. Every touch, every kiss, had unraveled her, leaving her bare and vulnerable, but never more alive. Her chest rose and fell with a deep, steadying breath, but the longing that lingered in her heart was undeniable.The soft creak of the bedroom door pulled her from her thoughts. She turned, her eyes meeting Henry’s as he leaned against the frame, his shirt unbuttoned and hanging loosely, revealing the taut muscles of his chest. His dark eyes held a familiar intensity, one that sent a shiver racing through her body.“Penny for your thoughts?” he asked, his voice low and smooth, the kind of voice th
Henry leaned against the kitchen counter, a glass of water in his hand as the cool liquid soothed his parched throat. The morning sunlight streamed through the windows, casting golden rays across the marble surfaces. The house was silent, save for the faint hum of the city below, but his mind was far from calm. Thoughts of Jasmine—her soft laughter, the way her skin had glowed in the morning light—lingered like a heady fog.Jasmine appeared in the doorway, her silhouette framed by the soft light. She wore nothing but one of his oversized shirts, the fabric brushing just above her knees. Her hair was tousled, her cheeks still flushed from their earlier intimacy. The sight of her sent a wave of desire rushing through Henry’s veins, his breath catching as their eyes met.“You left me alone,” she said softly, her voice teasing but with an edge of vulnerability.Henry set the glass down, his gaze darkening as he took a step toward her. “I thought you were resting.”Her lips curved into a s
Henry stirred awake as the faint golden light of dawn streamed through the sheer curtains, casting a soft glow over the room. The air was quiet, save for the gentle hum of the city waking below. His body was warm, wrapped in the comfort of the plush sheets and the softness of Jasmine nestled beside him.He turned his head slightly, his eyes landing on her serene face. Her dark lashes rested against her cheeks, her lips slightly parted as she slept peacefully. Her hair cascaded over the pillow like silk, and the gentle rise and fall of her chest made his heart clench with a warmth he hadn’t felt in years.Henry couldn’t resist reaching out. His fingers brushed against her cheek, featherlight, and she stirred at the touch, her eyelids fluttering open. Her sleepy gaze met his, and a soft smile spread across her lips.“Good morning,” she murmured, her voice husky from sleep.“Good morning,” Henry replied, his voice low, filled with affection. His hand moved to tuck a stray strand of hair
The soft glow of the candles followed them as Henry scooped Jasmine into his arms. Her skin was still damp from the bath, warm and soft against his chest. She let out a quiet gasp, wrapping her arms around his neck, her lips brushing lightly against his jaw."Henry," she whispered, her voice a mix of nervousness and anticipation.He paused, his dark eyes meeting hers. "Are you sure, Jasmine?" His voice was low, filled with both tenderness and restraint. "I don’t want to rush this if you’re not ready."Her cheeks flushed, and she gave him a small, reassuring smile. "I’ve never been more ready for anything."The sincerity in her eyes made his chest tighten. With a soft nod, he carried her into the bedroom, the faint scent of lavender still lingering in the air. The golden light from the bedside lamp cast a warm glow over the room, the shadows of the night dancing along the walls.Henry set her down gently on the edge of the bed, his movements careful, reverent. He knelt before her, his
Henry staggered through the door of his penthouse, his body weighed down by exhaustion. The soft glow of the evening lights spilled through the windows, casting long shadows across the polished floors. He loosened his tie, his every muscle aching from the relentless grind of the last few weeks. His mind was fogged with exhaustion, but he couldn’t help the flicker of pride at what he’d accomplished.“Henry?” Jasmine’s soft voice floated from the bedroom. The sound was like a balm to his frayed nerves.“I’m here,” he called back, his voice rough. He dropped his briefcase by the door and ran a hand through his disheveled hair.Jasmine appeared in the doorway, her figure bathed in the warm light of the room. She wore a silk robe that clung to her curves, her eyes filled with concern as she crossed the room toward him.“You look like you’ve been through a war,” she said, brushing her fingers over his jaw. Her touch was featherlight, but it sent a spark of warmth through him.“It feels like
Henry stormed out of the estate, his steps heavy and purposeful as the night air hit him like a slap to the face. The faint hum of the helicopters above was drowned out by the pounding of his heart. He clenched his fists so tightly that his knuckles turned white. His grandfather’s words echoed in his head, their sharp edges cutting deep.“You’re not family,” Henry muttered to himself, his voice trembling with barely contained rage. “I’m just another asset to him. Another chess piece.”The guards standing outside the gates straightened as Henry approached, their gazes wary. He shot them a glare so fierce that one of them visibly flinched.“Open the damn gate,” Henry snapped, his tone sharp enough to cut glass.The guard hesitated for a fraction of a second before obeying. The gates creaked open, and Henry strode out without sparing them another glance. The crunch of gravel beneath his feet was a harsh reminder of the cold reality he was leaving behind.Anderson caught up to him, his pa
The room seemed to shrink as Henry’s grandfather stood. His every movement was deliberate, exuding a power so commanding it felt like the very air was holding its breath. The sharp lines of his tailored black suit amplified his imposing frame, and the insignia of the Grand Commander gleamed on his chest like a badge of omnipotence. His presence filled the room, an aura so intense it was almost tangible, crackling like an electrical storm.The two guards by the door immediately bowed, their heads lowered so deeply that they nearly touched the floor. Outside the study, Henry could hear the shuffle of footsteps and murmurs as more people fell to their knees, as if in reverence to a god descending from the heavens.Henry stood frozen, his jaw clenched, refusing to bow. His fists tightened at his sides as he watched the scene unfold. The man before him wasn’t just his grandfather—he was a living legend, a shadow that loomed over every story whispered in corridors of power.“Grand Commander