The restaurant had gone silent, all eyes fixed on Jeremy as he stood his ground. Mrs. Williams, Mrs. Peterson, and Steve were all frozen in shock, mouths slightly agape as they processed what Jeremy had just said.“Are you crazy?” Mrs. Williams gasped. “Do you have any idea how much that wine costs? You can’t possibly afford it!”Jeremy, still perfectly composed, met her gaze with a cool stare. “I’m fully aware of the cost, Mrs. Williams. And yes, I can afford it.”The revelation left the room reeling, a hush falling over the table as the three guests processed what Jeremy had said.“But how?” Mrs. Peterson finally managed to sputter, her eyes wide with shock. “How can you afford a wine that costs a hundred thousand dollars?”Jeremy, his words a sharp blade, pressed his point. “Or is that it, Steve?” he asked, his voice a quiet, dangerous whisper. “Are you afraid you won’t be able to pay me back?"Steve’s face twisted with rage. “I’ll pay you back, you arrogant bastard!” he spat, slam
The restaurant fell silent, the tension in the air thick and palpable. All eyes were on Jeremy, their gazes full of curiosity and concern. How was he going to pay for the expensive bottle of wine? The thought weighed heavily on everyone's minds.Avery, her eyes wide with concern, immediately tried to interrupt, her voice laced with worry. "Jeremy, let me help you with this," she said, reaching for her own purse. "I can split the bill with you, I insist."Jeremy, with a firm but gentle shake of his head, turned to Avery, his expression reassuring. "Avery, it's okay," he said, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "I can handle this. You don't need to worry."As Jeremy pulled the sleek, matte black card from his wallet, Steve and the waiter couldn’t help but stare, their eyes widening in surprise. The card, emblazoned with the emblem of a luxury brand, was the epitome of elegance and exclusivity, reserved for only the wealthiest of clientele.Steve’s anger and envy grew as he consi
As the waiter’s words sank in, a wave of confusion and suspicion washed over Jeremy. He couldn’t imagine Jefferson, had betrayed him or made an error of this magnitude. The thought was simply inconceivable.“There must be some mistake,” he muttered, more to himself than to anyone else. “I don’t understand.”The Williams and Peterson made merry in Jeremy’s momentary discomfort, their faces breaking into satisfied grins. For once, Jeremy was off-balance, his usual aura of confidence and control shattered by the unexpected twist of fate.Steve, his eyes gleaming with malice, leaned forward in his seat. “Looks like the tables have turned,” he said, his voice low and threatening. “Now you can explain how you got that card. I’m sure the police will be interested in hearing your explanation.”"I'm sure you customized this card to look like the black card just to deceive people and get a woman on your bed," Steve said bitterly. Steve’s words, loaded with insinuation and scorn, sent a surge
The table erupted into uproarious laughter, cackling with amusement at the sight of Jeremy’s sudden comment.“The waiter should follow him!” Mr. White suggested, his booming voice cutting through the boisterous noise. “Make sure he doesn’t get away!”“We can’t let him off the hook that easily!” Mr. Williams chimed in, his face flushed with excitement.The waiter, a look of confusion and uncertainty on his face, shifted from foot to foot. “I have no problem with you following me,” he declared, his words brimming with audacity.The waiter, understanding his signal, nodded curtly to the burly bodyguard stationed at the restaurant entrance. Without hesitation, the muscular man set off in Jeremy’s direction, his pace brisk and purposeful.“Be careful!” Mrs Williams cautioned, her words ringing with a note of warning. “Jeremy’s a cunning one. Keep an eye on him, and make sure there’s no escape route in that bathroom for a criminal.”The bodyguard, his face betraying a hint of worry, ackno
Everyone on the table exchanged looks of disbelief, whispers of astonishment filling the air. They concluded that he had either lost his mind or was high on drugs, his bold announcement affirming their suspicions. Mr. Williams, his face a mask of resentment, turned his gaze towards Jeremy, his eyes searing with contempt. “Jeremy,” he began, his voice dripping with condescension, “you’ve exhibited a different level of madness tonight. And I’m curious, just how far down this rabbit hole of lunacy have you descended?”Mr. Williams’ eyes narrowed into slits, his tone sharp and tinged with incredulity. “You are aware, aren’t you, that Dan Stone is one of the most prominent CEOs in this city?“And yet, here you are, speaking of him as though he’s nothing but a street vendor. A mere commoner!” Mr. Williams shook his head in disbelief, his voice rising to a sneer.“Your arrogance, your lack of respect…I don’t know what’s gotten into you. But I’ll tell you this,” he spat out the words with v
Steve stared at the real Dan Stone, who had just walked into the room, and let out a frustrated sigh. "Great. Just great," he muttered, shaking his head. "What a coincidence that the very person you're trying to impersonate just happens to walk in. We're in deep now." He rubbed his temples, already feeling a headache brewing.Everyone was scared. They didn’t know what the CEO would do next. They watched him walk towards them and were very worried.Steven ran towards Dan Stone, his face flushed with panic. "Mr. Stone! I'm so sorry, sir!" he stammered, desperately trying to keep up the charade. "I'm sure your manager has already contacted you. We had no idea that man was an imposter. He convinced us that he has money to pay what we ordered. We're all victims of his deception!"He tried his best to sound convincing, pouring out his words with an air of sincerity that he hoped would be enough to convince Dan Stone. Dan Stone remained silent as he walked towards the table. His eyes fixed
The power and prestige Dan Stone enjoyed had been built upon the foundation of his relationship with Nathaniel, Jeremy's father. For years, Dan had served as his most trusted aide, loyal and devoted to the man who had given him a new lease on life. When Nathaniel had finally decided to retire, he had gifted Dan with a generous sum of money, connections, and a reputation that had allowed him to establish his own empire.It was this bond, this shared history, that had forged a deep sense of duty and gratitude in Dan towards Nathaniel and, by extension, Jeremy.The moment he had received the message from Jefferson, Dan Stone knew he had to act swiftly. With Jeremy being a guest of the Nathaniel family, he recognized that this was a crucial moment for him to prove his loyalty and devotion to his former employer's legacy.Without hesitation, Dan had excused himself from a crucial business meeting, knowing that this opportunity was more valuable than any deal he could strike in his office
Steve seethed in anger, his mouth curling into a knot. He burned to speak, to lash out at Jeremy for putting the bill on his neck, but the presence of Dan Stone and his intimidating bodyguard kept him rooted in place.His jaw clenched, fists balling at his sides, he shot fiercely at Jeremy with his gaze, his disgust made clear in every tensed muscle of his body. Yet, he held his tongue, because of the fear of further consequences.Dan Stone watched the exchange, a perplexing smile playing on his lips. Mrs. Peterson, her voice a trembling whisper, spoke up, mustering her courage to address Jeremy. "I apologize for the disturbance. I thought the bet was for you to pay the bill since Steve forgot his wallet. I assure you, once we get home, I’ll make sure he sends the money back," she pleaded, the words escaping in a desperate rush.Although she knew full well that she and her son were in no position to repay such a large sum, she was desperate to find a way out of this escalating situat
Mr. Smith's assistant entered his office, his footsteps quick and urgent. "Sir, they've arrived," he announced, a hint of apprehension coloring his voice.Mr. Smith gave a satisfied nod. "Did you give them the full treatment, as I requested?" he asked, his voice carrying the weight of his authority."Yes, sir," the assistant replied, a slight tremble in his tone. "Everything has been arranged, just as you specified."With a nod, Mr. Smith dismissed his assistant, his mind already turning to the next phase of his plan."Are you sure this is a good idea?" Mrs. Smith questioned, her voice tight with apprehension. "We're treating Jeremy and his family too well. It's bound to raise their suspicions about us."Mr. Smith gave a dismissive snort. "He's my nephew," he retorted, his voice edged with irritation. "Why shouldn't I treat him with respect?"Mrs. Smith's expression hardened. "That didn't stop you from letting your own sister die," she shot back. "What makes you think Jeremy will spar
Jeremy and his family arrived at Relagas Private Inn, only a few minutes away from their temporary lodgings. They were immediately greeted by a smiling gentleman who welcomed them with a warm, "Welcome Mr and Mrs Nathaniel!"Then, a little girl, who appeared to be about the same age as Mia, stepped forward and presented the couple with a beautiful bouquet of flowers."Wow, this is such a lovely welcome," Avery exclaimed, her voice warm with gratitude. "It's very unusual to receive such a friendly greeting from a business when it's not work-related."The smiling gentleman nodded in agreement, his voice polite and professional. "Ma'am, all of our international guests are welcomed like this. But your visit is especially important to us, as our CEO has prepared a special banquet for you and your family."Avery took the bouquet of flowers from the little girl, handing them over to Mia with a smile.As the family stepped through the grand entrance of Relagas Private Inn, they were greeted b
Mr Smith picked up the phone and punched in the number for reception. When the receptionist answered, he got straight to the point. "When is Jeremy Nathaniel due to arrive?" "He's due to arrive later this evening, sir," came the answer, courteous and polite. Mr Smith's voice took on an authoritative, commanding edge. "I expect to be informed the moment he arrives," he said, leaving no room for argument. "Absolutely, sir," the receptionist replied, the slightest hint of fear in her voice. Mrs Smith's voice rang out, her eyes never leaving the screen of her phone. "Darling!" she exclaimed, her frustration palpable. "It's confirmed. Jeremy Nathaniel is in New York." Her husband's gaze shifted to her, his brow furrowed in confusion. "What does this have to do with James?" Mrs Smith's expression grew grim. "Remember, James was the Kaiden's lapdog here in New York," she said, her tone grave. "And despite his best efforts to keep it quiet, we both know how much the Kaiden despise
Mr. Smith's expression turned grave at his wife's question. "What do you mean?" he asked, his voice full of concern.Mrs. Smith fixed her husband with a steady, unwavering gaze. "Jeremy Nathaniel," she stated, her tone heavy with accusation.At the mention of the name, Mr. Smith's body tensed, his hands clenching into fists. He rose slowly from his seat, his posture rigid and defensive, as if he had just been caught in the act.Mr. Smith shook his head, his voice cool and collected. "What about Jeremy Nathaniel?" he asked, his gaze steady on his wife's face."That's the thing," Mrs. Smith responded, her words tumbling out in a flurry of excitement. "Jeremy Nathaniel, the same Jeremy Nathaniel we've been trying to keep hidden for all these years—he's here in New York. And he's booked a reservation at our inn. He's coming!"Mr. Smith seemed unconvinced. "The name is a common one," he countered."But that's not all," Mrs. Smith continued, her voice rising in urgency. "I checked the phone
Jeremy's only desire now was a peaceful, uneventful week with his family in New York. As soon as he returned to their hotel room, after Avery's discharge from the hospital, he picked up his phone and dialed Jefferson's number."Jefferson," he said, his voice tinged with the exhaustion of the past few days. "We need some serious downtime. A week of no drama, no excitement. Just pure relaxation.""Jefferson, I don't feel safe in this hotel anymore," Jeremy said, his voice weary but firm. "James knew where we were. We need a place that's off the grid. Somewhere secluded and private. I want my family to have the quiet, safe vacation they deserve."Jefferson's voice on the other end of the line was steady, reassuring. "You can count on me, boss," he said. "I'll find the perfect spot. Your family will be safe and comfortable, and they'll get the peaceful break they need."Jefferson's fingers flew across his smartphone's screen as he scoured the internet for an isolated and private inn. "Ral
The drive to the hospital was an agonizing blur for Jeremy, each red light and obstacle a cruel reminder of the uncertainty that awaited him. The world seemed to slow to a crawl as he trailed the ambulance, the only thing on his mind being the fragile life of his wife.The streets were a chaotic maelstrom, cars weaving around him, horns blaring, but he paid them no heed. With his heart racing and his mind consumed by worry, he pushed his foot harder on the gas pedal, willing the universe to get him to the hospital sooner."Avery, please, please be strong for me," Jeremy begged, his voice a desperate plea into the void as he chased after the ambulance. His heart felt like it was being twisted in a vise, and he clutched the steering wheel so tightly that his knuckles turned white."I need you, Avery," he whispered, the words tumbling from his lips like a prayer. "Please, just hold on." His eyes stung with tears, but he blinked them away, determined to stay focused on the road.Jeremy
"I'll kill you. I'll waste you" In a blind rage, James continued to choke Avery's limp body, oblivious to the fact that she was already unconscious. His teeth were bared, his breathing rapid and shallow. He seemed determined to snuff out the last vestiges of life from her.Then, the door burst open with a bang. Jeremy rushed in, his face contorted with shock and fury. He didn't hesitate for a second; he lunged at James, tackling him to the floor in a tangle of limbs. The FBI agents followed close behind, pointing their guns at James."You monster!" Jeremy screamed as he rained blows down on James, each punch fueled by his rage and desperation. His fists connected with James' face over and over again, his knuckles raw and bloody.The FBI agents rushed in, trying desperately to pry Jeremy off of James, but his fury was too great to be easily quelled. It took all of their combined strength to finally pull Jeremy away, his chest heaving as he fought for control. James lay motionless benea
After James discovers the hidden microphone and recorder, his expression darkens into one of pure rage, his jaw clenched so tight that Avery can almost hear the grinding of his teeth. He stalks towards her, his hands balled into fists."You fool! Who sent you?!" James roared, his eyes blazing with anger. Avery stood frozen in fear, unable to speak as she tried to back away from him."Answer me!" James thundered his voice like a thunderclap. Avery trembled as she struggled to find the words to respond. But the more she remained silent, the angrier James became, his fury reaching its boiling point."No one sent me... the microphone isn't working!" Avery stammered, her voice trembling with fear.James let out a bitter laugh, his eyes burning with hatred. "You must think I'm stupid. You won't leave this room alive," he snarled, his voice dripping with venom. "You've heard too much. I'll make sure you're sent home in a body bag."With each step he took closer to Avery, she could feel the
After James discovers the hidden microphone and recorder, his expression darkens into one of pure rage, his jaw clenched so tight that Avery can almost hear the grinding of his teeth. He stalks towards her, his hands balled into fists."You fool! Who sent you?!" James roared, his eyes blazing with anger. Avery stood frozen in fear, unable to speak as she tried to back away from him."Answer me!" James thundered his voice like a thunderclap. Avery trembled as she struggled to find the words to respond. But the more she remained silent, the angrier James became, his fury reaching its boiling point."No one sent me... the microphone isn't working!" Avery stammered, her voice trembling with fear.James let out a bitter laugh, his eyes burning with hatred. "You must think I'm stupid. You won't leave this room alive," he snarled, his voice dripping with venom. "You've heard too much. I'll make sure you're sent home in a body bag."With each step he took closer to Avery, she could feel the