On the screen, three hooded men appear. Behind them, an old man is tied to a chair." Oh my God ! That's my father ! He's alive ! " exclaims Jasmine, wide-eyed as she identifies the old man." Who are you ? " asks Quentin, his voice trembling with a mix of fear and anger, after approaching Jasmine to watch the video call.In the bunker, one of the hackers works to project the video call onto a massive screen, so that everyone can follow along.Suddenly, one of the masked men steps forward, pointing a gun at the camera." We hold the fate of this old man in our hands, " he declares in a chilling and threatening voice, pointing at Jasmine's father with his finger.With eyes filled with terror and despair, Jasmine's father gazes at the camera." Jasmine," he whispers weakly." Don't listen to these monsters. They're going to kill me."One of the masked men bursts into laughter." Jasmine ! Your father is right. We're going to kill him to teach you a lesson because you disobeyed our leade
After a few moments, Quentin took a deep breath, attempting to calm the turmoil of his thoughts." We must gather ourselves," he declared to the bodyguard over the phone." My dear sir, what should we do about Al-Aziz ? " the bodyguard asked, his voice filled with anger." We will deal with him later," Quentin replied firmly, his mind already working on formulating a plan." For now, I insist you return to the residence. We will decide on our next course of action once you are back and safe."The bodyguard grumbled in agreement, and Quentin ended the call. Two minutes later, Quentin picked up his second phone and called Arjun." Arjun, it is imperative that you return to the residence," he urged in a hurried voice." Is everything alright, Quentin ? " Arjun asked, concern evident in his voice." We have much to discuss, but not over the phone," Quentin replied in an enigmatic tone." I will explain everything once you arrive. So, come back as soon as possible."With that, he ended the
[ 24 hours later. ]Quentin found himself immersed in his office, an abundance of documents and financial reports cluttering his imposing mahogany desk.He massaged his temples, trying to alleviate the headache caused by stress. Suddenly, a knock on the door interrupted his thoughts." Please come in ! " he exclaimed.The door swung open abruptly, and Arjun rushed inside, his face betraying his worry." Quentin ! I came as soon as I received your message. What's going on ? " he asked, filled with anxiety.Quentin rose from his desk and warmly embraced Arjun. When they pulled apart, Arjun was stunned to see tears glistening in his friend's eyes." It's Jasmine... she's gone missing," Quentin murmured, his voice broken." What ? Gone ? Since when ? " Arjun asked, incredulous.Quentin desperately shook his head." Since yesterday ! "" We were both in Ethan's room when you called me. I went out to take that phone call, and when I came back, she was gone," Quentin explained." I hope she'
Arjun watched Quentin and Lakshmi engage in animated conversation from the other side of the room, and a smile formed on his face." I did the right thing by insisting that Quentin attend this gala," he thought, convinced of the positive impact it had on him.Later in the evening, immersed in the enchanting atmosphere of the charity gala, Quentin and Lakshmi found themselves seated at a beautifully decorated table.The candles cast a soft glow on their faces as they prepared to savor their dinner.As the first course was served, Lakshmi turned her gaze toward Quentin, a grateful smile on her lips." Quentin, I must say it's a true pleasure to meet you tonight," she declared, her voice filled with sincerity.Quentin's eyes lit up with genuine gratitude." The pleasure is mutual, Lakshmi. Your presence has a reassuring quality that puts me at ease," he replied, appreciating this pleasant conversation.Encouraged by their budding relationship, Lakshmi decided to confide in Quentin about
Quentin's eyes widened in shock. He leaned back in his chair, running a hand through his hair as he struggled to find the right words." Lakshmi, I'm... flattered, but it's so sudden," he stammered, his voice trembling with emotion." We barely know each other."Lakshmi looked at him patiently, determined not to back down." I understand it may seem rushed, but my heart tells me that we could build something wonderful together. Love doesn't follow logic."Quentin lowered his gaze, struggling to hide his turmoil." But what about Jasmine? And Ethan? And how can I resist Lakshmi's incomparable charm ? " he thought, trapped in his own conflicting emotions.Then, slowly, he shook his head." Lakshmi, you are remarkable. But my story is complicated. I need time," he said softly.Lakshmi gently took his hand in hers, seeking to reassure him." I know there are things you haven't told me. Let me get to know you," she whispered.Her touch sent shivers through Quentin. He looked into her eyes.
[The next day.]The gentle morning light filtered through the curtains, gently awakening Lakshmi from her peaceful slumber.She slowly opened her eyes, clinging to the sweet memories of a enchanting dream that was slowly fading away.Gracefully stretching her arms above her head, she let out a soft yawn and delicately rubbed her eyes before sitting up on her king-size bed, feeling perfectly cocooned in comfort.Yet, despite this morning tranquility, a sense of excitement and restlessness seized her.Her mind was filled with images and emotions from her magical encounter with Quentin the previous night.Without hesitation, she picked up her phone from the bedside table and dialed Quentin's number, letting anticipation dance in her heart.At the other end of the line, Quentin was juggling with his son Ethan, savoring every moment of their playful interaction.Suddenly, a phone call was heard, and Quentin, wearing a wide smile, answered." Hello, Lakshmi," he warmly greeted." Hello, Que
Arjun's eyebrows lifted in surprise, captivated by the enticing offer." That is an extremely generous proposition. However, my loyalty to Quentin is deeply ingrained."" Of course, I am aware," Mr. Kapoor murmured in a soothing voice." But imagine what we could build together. With my resources and your expertise, we could conquer this city. Allow me to demonstrate it to you..."He stood up majestically, inviting Arjun to approach the immense floor-to-ceiling windows, offering a dazzling view of the sparkling urban landscape." Everything the light touches, we could possess and shape according to our will, " he proclaimed with a grandeur befitting a leader, sweeping his arm in a theatrical gesture." No longer will you be relegated to the background. You can proudly stand by my side as we inaugurate a new era of prosperity."Arjun gazed at the panorama with fascination, momentarily captivated by the promises of greatness. Mr. Kapoor affectionately placed a hand on his shoulder." Ar
Quentin took a moment to reflect and then declared resolutely." Very well, in that case, we will approach this matter in a different way. I will diligently conduct this internal investigation on this individual without ever revealing your identity. "" Furthermore, we will take care of finding you a position within one of our subsidiaries where he will be unable to reach you, " he added.A sigh of relief escaped Murielle, who warmly thanked Quentin, touched by his kindness and desire to protect her.Suddenly, a loud noise echoed at the office entrance, interrupting the conversation between Murielle and Quentin.The door swung open violently, and Lakshmi stormed into the room, her face filled with anger." Quentin ! Who allows your secretary to act like this ? " she exclaimed.Right behind her, Quentin's secretary appeared, out of breath." Sir, please accept my apologies. I tried in vain to restrain Miss Lakshmi, but she refused to listen..." she apologized." It's fine, Sophie. Plea
The room was now filled with a tense atmosphere as Quantin paced back and forth, lost in thought. Murielle scrutinized him attentively, concerned about the gravity of the situation. " Mr. Quantin, we cannot allow Miss Jasmine to take Ethan," she said in a soft, composed tone. " She hasn't been there for him all this time. Therefore, we cannot permit her to disrupt his life like this," she added. " I know, Murielle, but it's not an easy decision to make," Quantin replied with worry. " Ethan is her son, and he also deserves to know his mother. I can't just keep him away from her," he added. " I understand that, but you must consider what's best for Ethan," Murielle firmly retorted. " You are his father, and you are also a powerful man who has the means to fight for Ethan's custody if that's what's best for him." " Moreover, Miss Jasmine's sudden return and her threats of a custody battle show that she may not have his best interests at heart," she explained. Quantin paused, care
In the following days, an unpleasant tension settled between Quantin and Murielle, tinting their interactions with a polite distance due to the strictly professional nature they maintained.However, both remained haunted by the intimate moment they had shared.Murielle found comfort in little Ethan, dedicating herself to him with love and care.His innocent joy illuminated her days, helping her push away thoughts of that night in the kitchen.As for Quantin, he grew increasingly pensive. That kiss had awakened emotions in him that he could not ignore.He admired Murielle's dedication to Ethan and couldn't deny the growing feelings he had for her.Yet, he was equally aware of the complications such a relationship could bring, given their social positions.One evening, as the sun set on the horizon and the manor was draped in a warm glow, Quantin was sitting in his study when an employee came to inform him of Jasmine's arrival, Ethan's mother.Quantin's eyes widened with surprise." Jas
" Ethan's nanny distinguished herself with her remarkable personality and unwavering dedication to her duties," Quantin continued." Therefore, she does not deserve to be tormented or mistreated in any way, no matter the form this act may take," he insisted, his voice gradually tinted with anger.The employees exchanged worried glances, realizing the gravity of the situation." As for you..." he said, staring intensely at the butler." I have always held genuine respect for you. However, if I were to discover that you persist in disturbing Murielle, I would not hesitate to dismiss you without hesitation."" Consider this a formal warning," he announced sternly.After this stern speech, Quantin concluded the meeting and invited everyone to resume their work.In the following days, Murielle continued to provide devoted and tender care to the adorable little Ethan.She played with him, prepared delicious meals for him, and put him to sleep at night by telling enchanting stories accompani
An elegant black car parked in front of Lakshmi's residence, and Lina hurriedly stepped out of it.Devastated to see her best friend in this situation, Lina decided to intervene." Stop, Lakshmi ! Get up now ! " Lina ordered firmly as she quickly approached her.With tears in her eyes, Lakshmi eventually got up under Lina's insistence. Then she hesitantly wiped her face." Lina, I... I don't know what to do anymore. I love him so much, but he refuses to give me a chance," Lakshmi said with a broken voice.Lina hugged her and comforted her." I understand how difficult it is, but you can't demean yourself like this. There are other ways to express your feelings without putting yourself in such a situation."Lina looked around, noticing the gazes of passersby." Let's go inside. We can talk about all of this calmly," she suggested.And so, Lina and Lakshmi quickly entered the apartment.Once inside, Lakshmi collapsed on the sofa, still upset." Lakshmi, you need to respect yourself more.
[ One month later. ]Seated at the head of the large conference table in one of Chen Enterprises' meeting rooms, Quantin was surrounded by his colleagues.His new assistant, Fabrice, stood conscientiously by his side while the other employees were seated around the table." Thank you all for joining me today. I have called this meeting to discuss the partnership between Chen Enterprises and Mr. Kapoor over the past month," he began in a calm tone." I would like to hear your opinions on this collaboration. Although we already have the report on our revenue figures, I believe it is essential to hear your perspectives," he added with a hint of solemnity.Fabrice spoke with confidence." I am convinced that this partnership has proven to be extremely beneficial, and we must do everything in our power to make it last," he began." Our profits have increased by 15% since we teamed up with Mr. Kapoor. His strong industry connections have opened doors to new clients and valuable resources,"
Kapoor's laughter resonates once again as he looks at Quantin with a curious gaze." Allow me to ask, Mr. Quantin, are you married ? Do you have children ? " Kapoor inquires subtly.Quantin gently shakes his head. " No, I haven't taken the step of marriage yet. However, I have a son named Ethan. "" His mother and I have never succumbed to marital union," he adds with a touch of melancholy."Ah, I understand," Kapoor nods with a hint of understanding in his eyes." You are still young and enjoy well-deserved success. It would be quite regrettable for such a charming and powerful man like you to remain in a state of celibacy ! " Kapoor exclaims with a touch of elegance.Quantin replies with exquisite politeness, accompanied by a smile." You might be right, Mr. Kapoor."The two men share a knowing laugh before they resume their conversation.Meanwhile, outside, Lina sits in her car, lost in her thoughts, all of them absorbed by the charming Quantin Chen.She expresses her intimate re
The abrupt change in Kapoor's behavior astounds Arjun." What does this mean ? " he exclaims.Before Kapoor can reply, Quantin intervenes," Mr. Kapoor, please explain what's going on here. Why are you insulting my brother ? "" Silence ! " Arjun turns towards Quantin." This concerns only Mr. Kapoor and me. Do not interfere," he adds.Kapoor lets out a chilling laugh." Oh, Arjun, poor fool. Did you really think I desired you? You evoke nothing but pity in me!"Arjun looks at him with disbelief." But you said..."" I said what you wanted to hear ! " Kapoor sneers." I wanted to see if you were truly trustworthy. And now, I realize you're nothing but a power-hungry traitor ! " Kapoor interrupts Arjun.Then, he turns to Quantin with an air of superiority." Mr. Quantin ! It was I who planted ideas in Arjun's mind. It was because of me that Arjun started demanding to be associated with Chen Enterprises."" I suggested he leave your company because he's so talented, yet he receives no r
" Legally, the company bears your name, but it doesn't belong to you exclusively. I also have a say," Arjun retorted, not letting himself be disheartened." It's crucial that you understand it's my blood, sweat, and tears that contributed to building Chen Enterprises," he added, his eyes shining with fierce determination." However, Mr. Kapoor was right from the beginning because you treat me no better than a mere employee," he continued with some bitterness, emotions intertwining on his face.Quantin scowled, taken aback by Arjun's resilience." Be careful, Arjun. I have generously compensated you for your contributions."" It's not about money," Arjun replied sharply." It's about respect. Therefore, I demand to be an associate and co-owner of Chen Enterprises. I've more than earned it."Quantin shook his head, realizing that the situation was far more complicated than he had imagined." I'm afraid I cannot agree to that. The shareholding structure remains unchanged."Arjun clench
[ ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE CITY… ]Lakshmi, having entered her sumptuous mansion with impatience, let out a sigh of frustration." This Quentin, seriously..." she exclaimed as she walked into the luxurious living room.Her heart still racing with emotions, she grabbed her phone and immediately decided to call her best friend, Lina." Hello Lina ! You'll never guess how Quentin behaved with me today," Lakshmi blurted out as soon as her friend picked up." Really ? Tell me everything ! What did he do this time ? " Lina asked curiously." I went to his office to confirm our dinner plans for this afternoon," Lakshmi began." But when I arrived, he was in a deep conversation with a criminal who had just been released from prison ! "" What ? A criminal in his office ? " Lina exclaimed, surprised." Yes, and you'll never believe what he was doing. He wants to help her find a job ! Can you imagine ? " Lakshmi retorted with a hint of bitterness." But maybe he's just trying to be understandin