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Chapter 332
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As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 333
Suzy hadn’t expected to walk in on this scene when she came looking for Suzy. Her steps slowed, eyes flicking between the two of them with a mix of surprise and suspicion."What are you two doing in Suzy’s place?"Both froze at once.Edwin instinctively let go, taking two steps back to compose himself.Julian straightened his collar. "Uh... I’ll go get changed.”With that, he turned and headed back inside.Edwin’s gaze darkened as he watched Julian walk upstairs like he belonged there. His hand clenched at his side, veins bulging under his skin."Uncle Edwin..."Stellar had seen enough to understand exactly what was going on.She bent down, picked up the bouquet of roses from the floor, and raised an eyebrow at him. "Didn’t you used to swear that you’re going to be a lifelong bachelor, not the kind to ever settle down for anyone? So, what’s this supposed to be, then?"Edwin’s expression stiffened.That comment hit like a boomerang, coming back to smack him square in the face. For o
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"Miss, you probably don’t know this yet. Over the past six months, Mr. Ward has been sending gifts to the house every now and then. “I don’t know how he figured out what the Mr. and Mrs. Rivers like, but everything he sent matched their tastes perfectly..."At first, of course, the old couple turned him down coldly.But Stephen didn’t give up. He sent Laurence a rare first-edition hardcover from his favorite classic author. For Martha, he tracked down a limited-edition vinyl from a beloved jazz singer she’d always wanted in her collection.In the end, they couldn’t resist and accepted the gifts."I only found out because the housekeeper mentioned it when I visited," Mary said with a smile.Stellar felt a wave of emotion she couldn’t quite name.In the background, quietly and persistently, Stephen was doing everything he could to make amends, trying to win over her grandparents. His methods might’ve been a little sly, but it was all for her.Her cheeks flushed slightly at the though
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Stephen got up and followed after her. "Let me help too."The two of them entered the kitchen one after the other.Mary was cooking, while Stellar helped wash the vegetables before handing them to Stephen to cut.As Stephen reached out to take them, his fingertips accidentally brushed against her pinky. It felt like a jolt of electricity ran through her limbs, leaving her whole body tingling.Stellar quickly pulled her hand back in a panic, her ears turning red.Stephen couldn't help but smile.The air between them felt sweet and charged with tension.Outside the kitchen, Laurence and Martha had seen everything through the doorway. Their expressions grew increasingly serious."What do you think will happen if the two of them end up together?" Martha asked softly."No," Laurence replied flatly.Although the broken engagement was long behind them and Stephen had done more than enough to prove himself, earning back much of their goodwill, Laurence still shook his head."I still don't ag
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"Hm?" Stellar tilted her head curiously, looking up at him, only to meet a pair of eyes deeper than the night sky. For a moment, she completely froze.Stephen gazed into hers, as if silently laying his heart bare."It’s just... without you, work hasn’t felt the same. All the fun little moments are gone. I want to share everything with you."Back at the SA base, they used to see each other nearly every day.A flush crept across her cheeks. She hadn’t expected him to say something so unabashedly tender. Her heart was racing, and for a moment, she didn’t know how to respond."You… you could always text me," she murmured."You wouldn’t find it annoying?" he asked, almost hesitant."Of course not!" She pressed a palm to her burning cheek and added with a casual air."Depends on my mood though. If I’m free, I’ll reply."A deeper smile flickered in Stephen’s eyes. His voice, low and magnetic, sent a shiver down her spine. "Then I’ll look forward to your replies every day."Stellar’s he
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 337
The next day, Stellar finalized her new research direction.Once the clean-energy tech rolled into production, she assembled a fresh team under her lead and launched a new project group. She outlined the detailed plan to her colleagues, who not only admired her vision but quickly fell into step, getting preparations underway for phase one.With things relatively calm, she finally had a bit more free time.That afternoon, she headed home early, planning to swing by the market to pick up some things or supplements for her grandparents. After all, even Stephen knew how to choose gifts they liked—she couldn’t keep being the indifferent granddaughter with nothing to show.But just as she stepped outside, she froze.Stephen was there, tall and composed, clearly having waited for a while.Her heart tensed as she remembered the decision she made last night. Trying to stay calm, she walked over. “Senior, you’re not at the office today?”“I’m here for you.”His gaze locked on her, steady and
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Stephen didn’t even flinch. With a completely straight face, he said, “I figured it mattered to you. So, I wanted to give you one myself, to make up for it.”Stellar’s face turned scarlet. She didn’t even have time to deny the whole jealousy thing. Flustered and frustrated, she snapped, “You can’t just give something like that so casually!”“I wouldn’t give it to anyone else,” Stephen replied plainly. “But you’re different. I want to give it to you.”He said it with such calm sincerity, so openly, as if sharing something that personal in the middle of a store wasn’t the least bit embarrassing.Her heart pounded wildly, and all she could think about was turning and bolting for the door.Just then, the sales associate chimed in with a cheerful smile. “Choosing wedding rings? We offer custom engraving—initials, special dates, anything you'd like.”“We’re not a couple,” Stellar blurted out immediately.“Mm.” Stephen nodded calmly, unfazed. “Not yet.”The associate gave them a knowing lo
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 339
The thought left Stellar with a strange heaviness in her chest.“When… did you change the décor in here?” she asked, trying to sound casual.Stephen glanced at her, reading her expression carefully. Then, to her surprise, he asked, “You don’t like it?”She blinked, caught off guard. “Why would it matter if I do? It’s your place.”“I just wanted you to feel good every time you came over,” he said simply. “So, I looked up suggestions online and changed the style based on what people recommended.”Her eyes widened. “Wait, are you saying you did all of this yourself? The decorations, the setup, everything?”She could hardly picture Stephen—the cold and strict CEO—carefully arranging throw pillows or selecting warm-toned tablecloths.And the fact that he’d done it just to make her feel comfortable?“Yes,” he said, his gaze steady. “I thought you might like it.”Her heart gave an unsteady lurch.Where on earth had this man learned how to be so disarmingly thoughtful?He knew exactly how to
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 340
The moment Stellar heard the film’s title, her eyes lit up.It was a movie she’d loved for years but never had the chance to see in its full, uncut form.After a brief internal struggle, she decided to stay.They settled in the living room, turning on the projector and starting the film.At first, she was hyper-aware of Stephen beside her—his presence, his quiet breathing, and the warmth radiating from him. It made her sit a little too straight, her movements a little too careful.But ten minutes in, the story drew her in, and she slowly began to relax.By the end of the hour-long film, her eyes were burning with unshed tears.Even though she’d seen it before, the emotions still hit her like the first time—raw and aching. She forgot he was there at all.A single tear slid down her cheek, only to be gently wiped away by a warm, calloused hand.His thumb brushed across her skin—rough and careful all at once.The sudden contact snapped her back. She looked up, startled, only to meet hi
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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
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 433
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
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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
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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
