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
Mrs. Peterson’s fury was a force of nature, her words like fiery arrows. "We were minding our own business when you called us here! You and your arrogant son-in-law have brought shame upon our family name. He humiliated us with that contract, just like you intended!"Avery, fed up with her ranting, turned to her with an icy stare. "No one forced that document on Steve. He gambled and lost. Stop acting like you’re the victim here."Mrs. Peterson’s rage was reaching its boiling point, her words becoming more and more venomous. "Shut your mouth, you spoiled little princess! This was all a setup from the start, wasn't it? You and your grandfather planned to extort money from us to prop up your pathetic company!" she seethed, the bitterness of her words souring the air.Avery, stung by her accusations, returned the venom in kind. "Why can't you just admit that your golden boy got what he deserved?Mrs. Peterson, her face flushed with fury, glared at Avery. "How dare you! My son is a good
Jeremy shook his head and laughed in a scornful way. "Mrs. Williams, I'm not tearing up that contract. I don't understand why you're so angry about this when Steve says he can easily pay the money. According to him, he has plenty of money."Mrs. Williams' grip on Jeremy's shirt tightened even more as she spat out her words. "Just tear up that contract and leave us alone!"Jeremy, his voice still calm but with a hint of mockery, replied, "Mrs. Williams, this is not up for debate. Steve signed the contract himself and he will pay. If he doesn't, he will face the consequences."Mrs. Peterson, her anger renewed, joined in the verbal assault on Jeremy. " You're nothing but a poor church rat who got lucky by marrying into a rich family. You're arrogant and proud for no reason!"Jeremy's expression remained unchanged, his voice still even and controlled. "Your insults do not change the fact that I hold the power here. I made a bet with Steve and he lost. It's as simple as that."Jeremy smirk
Jeremy's response was swift and resolute, his hand tightening its grip around Avery's as if to shield her from her family's prying eyes. "I answer only to my wife. I owe nobody an explanation, especially those who would seek to see me fail," he declared, his tone a mix of confidence and defiance.With a gentle tug, he led Avery away from the gathering, a silent but clear signal that the conversation was over. As they walked, Avery looked up at her husband with a mixture of admiration and uncertainty, wondering what secrets he was keeping from her.As Jeremy guided Avery away from the lingering cloud of drama, he could sense her curiosity and concern. He stopped for a moment, his hand gently cupping her cheek, his expression softening."My love," he began, his voice low and intimate, "I promise you, all of these ain't intended to harm you."Avery's heart fluttered at his tenderness, but still, she couldn't shake the nagging feeling that there was more to this story."How I'm, I 'm even
As Mrs. Williams spoke to the bouncer, Avery's instincts kicked into high gear. Without hesitation, she boldly moved between the two men, placing herself as a human shield in front of Jeremy."My husband is no imposter!" she declared, her voice echoing with defiance. Mrs. Williams stood her ground, her piercing gaze locked on the guard. "He's lying, just like I told you earlier. If anything goes wrong, it's because of him. I insist you take him away now!"The bouncer, seemingly unfazed by the commotion surrounding him, fixed his gaze on Jeremy, his expression betraying a hint of confusion. "My boss specifically asked me to hand this over to you, sir," the guard said, producing a sleek, black card that bore the restaurant's logo. He held it out towards Jeremy, as if offering a talisman of some sort. " What's this?" Avery questioned. "This is a black card. It's a highly exclusive membership, only given to the most elite individuals. It signifies unlimited access to the restaurant,
“Daddy,” Mia whispered, her eyes slowly fluttering open to the tender sensation of her father’s hand. A warm smile danced across her lips as she made eye contact with Jeremy.“Oh, my princess, you’re awake!” Jeremy exclaimed, delighted to see his daughter conscious again. Mia responded with a gentle nod, her eyes filled with love for her father."Are those tears in your eyes Daddy? Why are you crying? " Mia asked innocently and Jeremy chuckled. Mia’s innocent inquiry brought a smile to Jeremy’s face, which quickly morphed into a chuckle. “You sure ask a lot of questions for a sleepy little girl,” he teased, wiping away the traces of moisture from his eyes.“But seriously, Daddy, why are you crying?” Mia asked her tone now more somber. Jeremy’s smile faded as he looked down at his daughter, thinking of the best way to explain his emotions. “Sometimes, life is complicated and full of things that make people sad,” he said."Men don't cry. Only women do! " Mia said and her parent chuck
As the first rays of morning light began to spill through the hospital window, Jeremy and Avery found themselves still deeply asleep. The events of the previous day had drained them both physically and emotionally, and the quiet of the night had brought a much-needed respite. It was the gentle sound of Mia's voice that woke her parents from their slumber. Jeremy and Avery, though still fatigued from the previous day, managed to rouse themselves. They quickly made their way into the private bathroom attached to Mia's ward, where they took turns freshening up. The routine, despite the unfamiliar surroundings, brought a sense of normalcy to the morning. The ward that had been assigned to Mia was, indeed, fit for royalty. The hospital, renowned for its VIP service, had spared no expense in ensuring that Mia's recovery was as comfortable as possible.The room boasted a large, plush bed, surrounded by exquisite furnishings that spoke of both comfort and luxury. A small but tastefully
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