Chapter Fifty-TwoJasmine stormed out of the office building, her heart racing with fury and frustration. She had seen and heard more than enough. The image of Jasper’s smug face, the audacity of his actions in her office—it all played in a loop in her mind as she drove home. Her knuckles were white from gripping the steering wheel too hard, and her chest was tight with pent-up anger. But before leaving the office, she made sure to bark orders at her staff. “Clean every inch of that office once my brother leaves,” she hissed, her voice cold. “I don’t want to smell a trace of whatever filth he brought in there.”The employees nodded quickly, too terrified to speak.As she reached the family mansion, Jasmine’s fury had only intensified. The sight of her mother standing in the doorway, casually admiring herself in a mirror while dressed in expensive designer clothes, only stoked the fire burning inside her. Her mother’s shallow obsession with appearances felt like an insult to everyth
Chapter Fifty-ThreeJasmine’s heart skipped a beat when the door of the second SUV opened, and a tall, strikingly beautiful woman stepped out. Her long, lean frame was like that of a runway model, her sun-kissed skin glowing against the pristine white dress she wore. Her dark hair cascaded in loose waves, framing her face perfectly, and when she smiled, it was as if the entire world lit up. Jasmine blinked in disbelief, her anger, frustration, and exhaustion momentarily forgotten. The woman stood there, beaming at her, and that was all it took. “Anastasia!” Jasmine’s voice was full of surprise and joy. She bolted out of the living room, her feet barely touching the floor, and rushed toward her. The two women embraced as though they had been apart for a lifetime. Their arms wrapped around each other tightly, neither wanting to let go. Jasmine squeezed her eyes shut, a smile breaking across her face as she held onto her best friend, all her headaches and anger from earlier complet
Chapter Fifty-FourJasmine’s mother’s eyes gleamed as she received the confirmation she’d been waiting for. The message on her phone verified it all—Anastasia was indeed the daughter of the Vice President of Switzerland. The validation stirred something greedy inside her. Anastasia’s net worth alone surpassed that of the entire Woods Family Empire. Her connections, her wealth, her power—it was all too tempting to ignore.With a sly smile, she returned to the living room, carefully masking her excitement behind a composed face. As the two women laughed and shared stories from their boarding school days, Jasmine’s mother slid into the conversation with practiced charm.“Anastasia, dear,” she began, her voice laced with false sweetness, “you’re such a smart and accomplished young lady. I can’t help but wonder… are you married yet? Or perhaps engaged?”Anastasia laughed, her eyes sparkling with amusement. “No, not at all. I just finished my engineering degree. I’ve been too busy for t
Chapter Fifty-Five The front door creaked open, and Henry stepped into the house, his presence immediately bringing a sense of calm to Jasmine. She stood up, a warm smile spreading across her face as she went to greet her husband. The day had been overwhelming, but seeing Henry walk in gave her the comfort she desperately needed. Without hesitation, she wrapped her arms around him, and he gently returned the embrace, his lips brushing the top of her head in a soft, reassuring gesture. Anastasia stood up as well, her radiant smile brightening the room even more. Henry smiled at her and nodded in acknowledgment, offering a warm handshake. He knew how much Jasmine valued her friendship with Anastasia. Jasmine was an introvert, someone who struggled to open up to others, but Anastasia had always been her safe space. She had been the only friend who stood beside Jasmine at their wedding as a witness, never judging, never looking down on Henry. For that, Henry held her in high regard.
Chapter Fifty-SixJasper strutted toward his shiny new red Ferrari with a cocky grin plastered on his face, the engine roaring to life as he revved it up, making sure everyone within earshot heard it. He leaned casually against the door, his fingers tapping the hood as if to show off. The arrogance in his stance was palpable, and it was clear to everyone around that he was dying to be the center of attention.“Why don’t you come and let me give you a ride?” Jasper asked Anastasia, flashing her a smug smile as if he were offering her the world.Her bodyguards exchanged looks, clearly unimpressed by Jasper’s display. They rolled their eyes at him, knowing full well that Anastasia’s luxury was on another level. If only Jasper knew that the Rolex on Anastasia’s wrist was worth more than his entire Ferrari and designer clothes combined. But Anastasia wasn’t one to engage in childish games. She smiled politely and declined.“Oh, thank you, but Jasmine and Henry will ride with me in my car
Chapter Fifty-SevenThe CEO led the group through the grand lobby of The Penthouse to an exclusive, private elevator that opened directly into the most luxurious restaurant in the building. The restaurant itself was a masterpiece, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering a panoramic view of the city’s glittering skyline. Soft, ambient lighting gave the room a golden glow, and in the corner, the world’s finest opera singer performed alongside a renowned violinist, their music weaving an atmosphere of elegance and serenity.Henry and Jasmine admired the ambiance, feeling like they had stepped into a scene from a dream. Anastasia, accustomed to the luxury, still found herself impressed by the level of attention and care the restaurant offered. It was clear that this place catered only to the world’s elite.As they settled in, the CEO’s phone buzzed, and after glancing at the screen, he gave them an apologetic smile. “Please excuse me for a moment. I have a matter to attend to,” he said,
Chapter Fifty-EightThe air in the restaurant grew tense as the two soldiers took a step forward, their presence looming over the table like a dark cloud.The once elegant and serene atmosphere was now filled with an unsettling silence, and all eyes turned toward Jasper, who was still sitting smugly in his seat.One of the soldiers, tall and stoic, spoke first.“Who are you?” His voice was deep, commanding, and left no room for negotiation. “And why did you forge a signature on the reservation? This table is not for you.”Jasper blinked, the smug grin falling from his face as confusion set in.“What? What are you talking about?” he stammered, his voice faltering.Henry, who had just returned from his phone call, paused, looking between Jasper and the soldiers. He furrowed his brow, clearly confused by the sudden confrontation.“I’m sorry, what’s going on here?” Henry asked, trying to get a grasp of the situation.The second soldier, more rigid in his demeanor, turned to Henry and poin
Chapter Fifty-NineHenry stood poised, his gaze steady as one of the soldiers moved toward him, trying to grab his arm. Each time the soldier reached out, Henry simply sidestepped, not even breaking a sweat. The crowd watched, captivated, as he avoided every move with ease and grace, not even lifting a finger to fight back.“Stand still!” the soldier barked, frustration brewing. His face turned red, and the veins on his neck began to pulse. But Henry remained calm, his expression unreadable.“I wouldn’t do this if I were you,” Henry replied coolly, keeping his hands relaxed by his sides. “I’m here to enjoy a meal, not cause a scene.”The soldier’s frustration only grew. Unable to handle being outsmarted, he reached for his electric taser, his fingers trembling. He was about to press the trigger when a loud, authoritative voice echoed across the room.“Stop!” The CEO’s voice sliced through the tension like a blade.The soldiers froze, their heads turning in surprise as the CEO himsel
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