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Chapter 257
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As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 258
The reporters finally took notice of Suzy."Hugh Mann? Who’s that? Never heard of him."Some younger journalists had no idea who he was."Isn’t he that nearly-retired veteran? He hasn’t written anything in ten years. And wasn’t there some major scandal before he disappeared? I can’t believe he’s still in the industry!""It’s probably nothing special. No way it can compare to a project backed by Star Luna!"No one believed in Suzy. Instead, they showered Tori and Star Luna with endless praise.This was exactly what Tori wanted.Using her own fame, she trampled Suzy down, ensuring she’d never have a chance to rise again.The smug satisfaction on Tori’s face was infuriating.Suzy clenched her fists in frustration and tugged at Stellar, ready to leave.But Stellar held onto her arm, her gaze turning icy. Instead of walking away, she stepped forward, right in front of Tori, prepared to expose her in front of the reporters.Before she could speak, a loud and powerful female voice cut throu
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Eddie spoke with absolute conviction, his words filled with righteousness.The crowd erupted in praise, impressed by the dignified presence of such a renowned author."But this time, my sister told me that someone is deliberately impersonating me. This is an insult to my dignity! “I will not allow my creative work to be exploited by others, which is why I’m here today—to see for myself who has the audacity to steal my name!"His voice carried righteous anger, and the crowd immediately sympathized with him.Their gazes all turned toward Stellar.Eddie followed their stares, but the moment his eyes landed on Stellar, his entire body froze.Stellar let out a cold laugh and stepped through the crowd, stopping directly in front of him. Her eyes were sharp and filled with icy contempt."And who exactly is the one with no shame here?"The sight of him was almost laughable. She knew this man.Years ago, back when she was still writing, she had met Eddie, who was just another aspiring writer
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Stellar’s last shred of patience vanished, and disappointment laced her voice."Eddie Palmer, as a fellow creator, I thought you would understand the fury of having your work stolen.“You stood in front of those reporters, speaking so righteously, yet you’re the real thief. Doesn’t that make you feel hypocritical? Disgusting?""I…" Eddie was at a loss for words.Stellar had held onto a sliver of hope, thinking that maybe he would show genuine remorse.She had been completely wrong."I will not let you continue stealing my work! Your so-called dignity means nothing to me!"With that, she turned to leave.But before she could take a step, a loud thud sounded behind her.Startled, she turned around, only to see Eddie kneeling before her."I truly know what I did was wrong," he said, his voice trembling. "I never did this for fame or fortune. I just needed to survive.“Tori’s influence gave me a way to earn money that I desperately needed. My mother has cancer. Her medical bills cost hundr
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Stellar looked up in surprise, her gaze locking onto a pair of deep, gentle eyes."For you."Stephen stood before her, dressed in a crisp white suit, holding a bouquet of fiery red roses. The elegant ensemble made him look even more striking than usual.Her heart skipped a beat before she finally snapped back to reality. "Why are you giving me flowers all of a sudden?""I'm courting you."His voice was low and magnetic, filled with effortless charm.Stellar's face turned beet red, and she stammered, "Y-You… When did I ever say you could court me?"Stephen blinked, looking momentarily wounded, a hint of grievance in his expression."That night at the hotel—you personally agreed to give us a try. Did you forget so soon?"The way he said it made her sound like some heartless player.But she clearly remembered saying they should just go with the flow!"I didn't mean…"She tried to explain, but Stephen lowered his gaze, looking dejected. "Never mind. I was too presumptuous. You don’t have t
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But her creative energy still surged.Stellar saved the draft but didn’t publish it just yet.This novel, After Dawn, felt like her unfinished life—one she was determined to keep writing.Afterward, she sent a message to David, letting him know she was making her return.It wasn’t long before his response came in—a flurry of excited, spinning emojis.“This is amazing, Star Luna! It had been two years, three months, and six days! Welcome back, we love you!!!”Stellar was both touched and amused.So, this was what it felt like to be liked and anticipated. It was a wonderful feeling.With that warmth in her heart, she went to bed in high spirits.But the next day, when she arrived at the base, she quickly noticed something was off.People were whispering, shooting her subtle, or not-so-subtle, glances."That’s her? Can you believe it?""Typical. Just another case of someone desperate for fame.""Didn't I say she was just pretending all along?"Their gazes carried a mix of ridicule, disdai
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 263
"Stellar, are you okay?" Ethan asked with concern."I'm fine." Stellar snapped out of her thoughts and explained seriously, "Ethan, I never pretended to be Star Luna."Perhaps her gaze was too resolute, because after a moment, Ethan nodded. "I believe you."He had seen her capabilities firsthand—there was no reason for her to fake it.He wanted to ask more, but just then, Stellar’s phone rang. She waved at Ethan before stepping aside to answer Suzy’s call."Stellar, I just saw the news... I'm so sorry, I dragged you into this."Suzy’s voice was full of guilt."What are you apologizing for? The ones in the wrong are those shameless impostors."Stellar’s tone was calm. "Don't worry, I won’t let them off so easily."Hearing the way she spoke, Suzy could tell she had something planned. She curiously asked, "Stellar, what are you going to do?""You’ll find out soon enough."After hanging up, Stellar returned to the base without haste and resumed her morning work.Stephen stopped by at so
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Eddie knew exactly how to exploit Tori’s weak spot. After a moment, she finally calmed down. "What are you so afraid of? At the end of the day, this so-called 'Star Luna' is just one of Suzy’s regular friends from outside the industry. "If she really had any connections, do you think someone who looks like her would still be a nobody?"Eddie's eyes lit up at her words. "Right! I remember her mentioning that she was the fake heiress of the Harlow family and was kicked out. She really has no backing at all." "Then it’s simple." Tori beckoned him over and whispered a few instructions. Eddie nodded repeatedly, then quickly picked up his phone from the floor and dialed a number. …By evening, Stellar left the base, but instead of heading home, she drove to a nearby café. When she approached a window seat, Eddie was already there, waiting. As soon as she arrived, he stood up and pulled out a chair for her, his attitude overly attentive. "Go ahead," Stellar said as she sat dow
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 265
Stellar paused for three seconds before bursting into laughter. Of all people, it turned out to be the Moore family again. "What’s so funny? Do you think the Moore family is easy to deal with?" Eddie snapped, thinking she still didn’t grasp the gravity of the situation. "Zayden Moore is known in the industry as the King of Hell. Anyone who ends up in his hands has no way out!" But instead of looking intimidated, Stellar’s smirk deepened, her eyes growing sharper. "If he’s that powerful, then I guess I’ll have to see for myself." "You… You’re absolutely insane!" Realizing there was no point in arguing further, Eddie stormed off, heading straight back to report to Tori. At the time, she had been sipping tea, waiting for good news. But the moment she heard what happened, her face twisted with rage, and she threw her teacup across the room. "That bitch dares to look down on me?! Just wait…" She turned and hurried upstairs, dialing a number. When the call connected, he
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As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 434
Message after message, all of them were overly affectionate displays of love.From the details in the photos, the chat records, and the familiar username, Stellar quickly figured out the account belonged to Janet.So, the reason Stephen had been in such a bind, spending so long helping her pick a script was it all for Janet?The thought stung more than she expected.But then, she remembered the misunderstanding caused by Janet not long ago.She still felt it wasn't fair to jump to conclusions. Stephen deserved her trust.With that in mind, she opened messenger and made a video call.Stephen picked up the call shortly after."Stellar, what’s wrong?"Stephen seemed to notice her shift in mood right away."I... there’s something I wanted to ask you..." She paused, noticing the scenery shifting behind him. "Hold on, are you in a car? Where are you going?""I'm just checking on something. I’ll be back soon. What did you want to talk about?"After thinking for a moment, she asked, "Have yo
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Unfortunately, Janet agreed with her mother."I’ve said it all along—the Rivers family never saw us as their own. At least now you’re finally seeing their true colors. “But Mom, there’s no need to be upset anymore. We don’t need to rely on them."Her tone was firm and resolute."If not the Rivers, then who? You know your father’s limited abilities. With the company in its current state, what else can we do..." Layla muttered, already regretting marrying such a useless man."Mom, you still have me!" Janet’s eyes lit up. "To tell you the truth, I’ve already gotten close to Stephen Ward.""What did you say?" Layla blinked, unsure if she’d heard correctly. "You mean the heir to the Ward family?""That’s right. Things between us aren’t ordinary anymore. I told him I wanted to become a director, and he immediately promised to give me the best resources. “It won’t be long before I win him over completely. Once that happens, he’ll help the Cole family out of this mess and bring us more ben
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 432
She had only learned about her family situation from her mother after returning to Southport this time. If they couldn’t find a way to turn things around soon, the Cole family would be finished.Janet had to start planning for herself. But on the other end of the line, it suddenly went silent. Just as Janet grew anxious, Stephen’s deep voice finally came through. But he brought up something else entirely. "Janet, tell me, were you really the girl who saved me back then?" Janet’s heart skipped a beat, and she nearly dropped her phone. Her expression turned flustered, but thankfully, he couldn’t see her face through the screen. "Of course I was! Isn’t the pendant the best proof? Stephen, why would you suddenly ask that? Did someone say something to you?" She tried to sound hurt. "Is that so? But you don’t remember anything about saving me." Stephen’s tone was calm, almost testing her—though it also sounded like an offhand remark. "That’s because of the aftereffects f
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 431
When Stellar came downstairs in fresh clothes, Stephen was just finishing up a call in the living room.She walked toward him, planning to share what had just come to mind, but paused when she realized he was on a work call.“A script?” he was saying.“Yes, Mr. Ward,” came the voice of the development director on the other end. “We’ve just reviewed last quarter’s report from the film division—it exceeded projections by a wide margin. “If we continue selecting strong scripts and hiring top-tier actors, this production model could take the company even further.”“So, you want me to choose?” Stephen asked.“Yes, I’ve received several promising scripts and we’re ready to move forward with a major production. “But I’m struggling to narrow down the best one. I’d really appreciate your judgment on this.”“Got it. I’ll come by shortly,” Stephen replied, ending the call.He turned to see Stellar approaching. “Something on your mind?”Then, as if struck by inspiration, his eyes lit up. “Star
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Stellar turned around, puzzled, and met a pair of eyes filled with emotion so intense it felt like it might swallow her whole.The weight of it hit her all at once. “What’s wrong?”“Stellar, Promise me... no matter what happens, no matter the situation, don’t ever risk your life like that again. Please,” Stephen said, his voice rough, heavy with something deeper. In that moment, she understood. Her expression softened as she stepped closer, her tone gentle, almost coaxing. “I only had the courage to jump in because I knew you were there. “You’re the reason I felt safe. You’re my biggest sense of security.”The words, light and sincere, hit Stephen right in the chest.It was like a quiet confession that reached the softest part of him.He let out a helpless breath and smiled, brushing the damp strands of hair from her forehead. “Let’s get you changed. You’re completely…”Soaked.He didn’t finish the sentence.His gaze had fallen to her chest, where a familiar emerald pendant hung fro
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"Mary, Wayne, we’ve decided that we’d like you to be our mentors and carry on your legacy. “Martial arts may not be our full-time focus, and we won’t be able to devote ourselves to it completely... but if you're willing to accept that, please take this as a symbol of our commitment."Both of them had made the same decision.The older couple exchanged a glance, visibly moved.With successors finally in place, they had a renewed sense of purpose. With time, they were confident the two would come to love martial arts just as deeply as they did.“I couldn’t ask for better students,” Wayne said with a wide grin. “Alright, enough with the bowing.”Mary chuckled. "Honestly, it’s starting to feel like a wedding ceremony."Stellar flushed and quickly stood straight.The four of them chatted warmly, already discussing plans for the trip back. After some thought, Wayne made his decision."This time, I’ll head back to the city with you two for a while. It’s been ages since I visited the Mr. and
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 428
Lillie’s manner was polite, her words respectful, with no hint of provocation.Still, Stellar felt a flicker of unease stir in her chest.“The second match—ready, go!”At the sound of the whistle, Lillie made the first move, launching herself forward.Stellar reacted instantly, meeting her head-on. The two quickly locked into a rapid exchange of strikes and counters.To most observers, the fight looked evenly matched. But Stellar picked up on something others might have missed—every one of Lillie’s moves was calculated, ruthless, aimed with precision at the most vulnerable points of her body.A single mistake could lead to serious injury.Thankfully, Stellar’s reflexes were sharp. She dodged every blow by the skin of her teeth, her movements agile and fluid.Dozens of moves passed in quick succession, the two appearing evenly matched.But soon, Lillie began to falter. Her breathing grew labored while Stellar remained steady, her rhythm controlled, her energy barely flagging. The b
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Hank wore the smug expression of a man who thought he’d already won. “She agreed to the match. “She can back down now if she wants, but you have to hand over your academy, and maybe I’ll consider letting her walk away.”“Not a chance,” Stellar cut in before Wayne could speak. “I don’t care who I’m up against—bring it on.”“Well said. Gotta admire that spirit.”The match was about to begin.In the first round, Stellar stepped onto the platform opposite Hulk.He cracked his knuckles and looked her over with a leering grin. “Tell you what, sweetheart—bow your head and call me a darling, and maybe I’ll go easy on you.”Stellar gave a low chuckle, eyes glinting with mischief. “Call me ‘Queen,’ and I might let you walk away with a couple teeth still intact.”Hulk’s face twisted in rage, a vein popping along his temple. “You’re dead meat!”The whistle blew.His eyes narrowed, and with a growl, he lunged, throwing a vicious punch straight at her face.It was fast and brutal.If the punch lan
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“Miss, are you awake?”Stellar slowly blinked her eyes open, still groggy, only to be met with a close-up view of a man's strikingly handsome face.“Aah…!”She screamed instinctively, jerking upright and startling Stephen awake beside her.From outside the door, Mary’s worried voice called out, “Miss Stellar? What happened? Are you alright?”The doorknob rattled.Mary was seconds from walking in and Stellar panicked.“It’s fine, Mary!” Stellar blurted out in a rush. “I just thought I saw a cockroach—false alarm! Don’t come in, I’m getting dressed!”She got it all out in one breath.Mary paused. “Oh… alright, then.”Only when the doorknob stilled did Stellar finally exhale in relief. She turned and found Stephen watching her with an amused smile.He lay on his side, effortlessly handsome, looking far too comfortable for someone who had just narrowly avoided being caught in such a compromising situation.Stellar’s eye twitched.“I’ll leave you to change then. Breakfast is ready. I’ll g
