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Chapter 53
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As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 54
Claude seemed to anticipate her hesitation. His warm, reassuring voice came through the phone again."Stellar, you’re living on your own now, and taking taxis all the time isn’t safe. I’d never feel at ease knowing that. Having your own car will make things much more convenient.“Besides, you’re the little princess of the Rivers family—you deserve to be spoiled. You don’t need to feel burdened by it."A wave of warmth flooded Stellar’s chest, a mix of happiness and bittersweet emotion swelling inside her."Thank you, Uncle Claude. I really love the gift."In the end, she didn’t refuse his kindness.Still, it would take some time for the car to be delivered, so the next morning, she set out on foot as usual.She had barely stepped outside the gates when she unexpectedly crossed paths with a familiar figure.Stephen.He had just exited the villa across the street.His car was already waiting by the entrance, and his assistant stood beside it, holding the door open for him.So… he lived
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 55
In just half an hour, the group had settled into an easy dynamic."You’ve probably got a solid understanding of the project by now," Simon said, his tone calm and authoritative, carrying the natural leadership of a senior team member. "The first set of data needs to be processed soon. Let’s head to the lab and get started."Everyone stood up in agreement."Let’s go."Stellar followed them toward the lab.But as soon as they reached the entrance, they ran into a familiar face."Well, well, Stellar. Looks like you really did step in some luck. You actually made it into the institute," Alex sneered, though his eyes flashed with frustration.He had been waiting for the moment Stellar would be kicked out of school, hoping to pressure her into giving up her dignity and submitting to him.But now, that plan completely fell apart.Before Stellar could respond, Lilian shot back without hesitation."Sounds like you’re the one who got lucky. I still can’t figure out how you got chosen to stay at
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 56
Her eyes gleamed with mockery and disdain, yet there was no surprise in them as if she always knew he was nothing but a fraud. Lilian and the others felt equally satisfied, their expressions filled with undisguised contempt as they looked at Alex. For a moment, his face burned red, as if he had just been slapped in public. Fury boiled inside him. Humiliated and enraged, he clenched his fists, ready to lunge forward and put Stellar in her place. But just then, a crisp, cool voice cut through the tension. "What’s all the commotion about?" Stephen strode over with unhurried steps, his tall frame casting an imposing presence. His sharp, sculpted features remained as cold as ever, his piercing gaze flicking over Alex with effortless indifference, as if he weren’t even worth acknowledging.Despite saying little, the sheer weight of his presence made Alex involuntarily shiver. The others exchanged glances, surprised. Some recognized him immediately, while others, knowing hi
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 57
There was something undeniably condescending about her tone. Lilian, ever the optimist, might not have picked up on it. But Stellar’s smile faded as she finally looked Vivian in the eye. "Even without someone backing me up, I wouldn’t stand by and let anyone insult my mentor without doing something about it." She wasn’t one to stir up trouble. But that didn’t mean she was afraid of it. Vivian’s expression darkened. It was a direct jab—calling her out for standing on the sidelines and making snide remarks instead of taking action. Just as she opened her mouth to retort, Simon stepped in before things escalated. "Alright, that’s enough. Since Alex is out of the way, let’s get back to work. We need to run the data." With that, Nathan, who had been silent the entire time, turned and entered the lab without another word. Lilian quickly grabbed Stellar’s arm and followed. Despite her irritation, Vivian had no choice but to do the same. Simon was the last to enter, c
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 58
Simon was always serious when it came to academics, and when he saw true talent, he never hesitated to give credit where it was due.Even Nathan, usually unreadable, had a flicker of admiration in his otherwise indifferent gaze.Vivian widened her eyes as she stepped forward, scanning the data carefully.It was flawless.No matter how hard she tried to find a flaw, there wasn’t a single mistake to nitpick.She was so confident just moments ago, insisting on switching tasks. And now, this data—so precise, so irrefutable—felt like the biggest slap in the face.Her expression twisted with discomfort."Well, no wonder. Geniuses really are built different," Lilian gushed, practically in awe, looking more and more like Stellar’s biggest fan.Vivian clenched her jaw, unable to stand the praise."To be fair, it’s probably thanks to Senior Ward’s teaching."It was a thinly veiled jab, implying Stellar’s skills weren’t her own but merely the product of someone else’s guidance.But this time, St
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 59
"Everyone was talking about you two back then."All the way up to graduation, when you abruptly gave up further studies and followed him straight into Moore Enterprises. Everyone thought you were finally getting what you wanted—to become Mrs. Moore."A faint tension settled over the group.The way she framed it made it sound as if Stellar had abandoned her academic career just to chase after a wealthy man.Vivian paused for a couple of seconds before adding, as if just remembering something,"Oh, but I did hear recently that the Moore family's heir is engaged to the Harlow family’s heiress. Stellar, you wouldn’t happen to be…"She trailed off deliberately, then widened her eyes with feigned regret."Oh no, did I just say something I shouldn’t have?"Her expression was one of mock remorse, but the flicker of triumph in her lowered gaze gave her away.Everyone present already picked up on the unspoken implication.She was suggesting that Stellar only returned to school because Percy dump
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 60
By the time dinner wrapped up, it was nearing 8 p.m. As Stellar and the others stepped out of the restaurant, they were met with a steady downpour. Most of them took a cab to get there. Since they all lived on campus, they planned to head back together, except for Stellar, who didn’t stay in the dorms. "You guys go ahead," she said quickly. "My place isn’t on the way. I’ll just call a ride on my own." Lilian hesitated, clearly worried. "Are you sure? I can wait with you—" "I’m feeling a little dizzy after drinking," Vivian cut in impatiently, rolling her eyes. "Can we just go? She’s a grown woman. I think she can manage calling a cab by herself." She bit down on the words “grown woman” with deliberate emphasis, her meaning clear. Stellar pressed her lips together, understanding the jab but choosing to ignore it. "But—" Lilian started, still reluctant. Stellar gave her a reassuring smile. "It’s fine. I’ll text you once I’m home." Only then did Lilian let out a smal
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 61
"Oh, right. Ashford University is hosting an academic symposium in a couple of days. If you're free, I can bring you along."At those words, Stellar’s usually calm eyes lit up with unmistakable interest.She wasn’t one to impose on Stephen, but she knew about this event.It was only held once a year, and the attendees were industry leaders from various fields—entry was strictly limited, and most people never got the chance to attend.Yet, Stephen was offering to take her.The opportunity was too rare to pass up.Tempted, she hesitated for only a second before asking, almost cautiously, "Really?"Catching the subtle spark in her gaze, a faint, almost imperceptible curve formed at the corner of Stephen’s lips.He gave a brief nod, responding with a low “Mm."He added, "You should get ready beforehand, I’ll let you know when the time comes.""Thank you, Senior Ward. I really appreciate it."As she reached for the door handle, something else crossed her mind."Oh, by the way, about the hai
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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
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 426
“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
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 425
“Um…” Stellar looked flustered. “I forgot to bring my clothes, so I borrowed your bathrobe. Sorry about that.”“It’s fine.” Stephen didn’t realize how hoarse his voice sounded until the words were already out.“I’ll just head back to my room then…”She turned to leave, but just as she took a step, a flash of lightning split across the sky, followed by a deafening clap of thunder.The lights cut out in an instant, plunging the room into darkness.“Ah!” Stellar flinched and stumbled forward, instinctively crashing into him, her body pressed tightly against his chest.She was warm, soft, still smelling faintly of shower gel—the subtle, clean scent wrapping around him. For a moment, Stephen’s thoughts scattered.But when he felt her trembling, instinct took over. He wrapped his arms around her without thinking. “Don’t worry. It’s probably just a power outage.”His voice, low and gentle, carried a soothing calm that helped ease her tension.Just as she began to relax, another crack of thu
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 424
"Of course, no problem at all!""Take your time, there's no rush."The couple smiled warmly, their expressions full of quiet joy. With the perfect successors in sight, both seemed genuinely pleased.Mary even chimed in with a suggestion, “Mr. Ward, why don’t you stay for dinner tonight?”“Thank you, Mary. I’d be happy to,” Stephen replied with a courteous smile.But after dinner, a light drizzle began to fall outside. At first, no one paid it any mind.Then the drizzle turned into a downpour, rain lashing against the windows as flashes of lightning split the sky.Stephen was getting ready to leave, but the sudden turn in weather made Stellar hesitate. “Why don’t you stay the night? It’s not safe to drive in this storm.”They had already shared a room once before, so she didn’t see any reason to fuss over it.Stephen glanced toward Mary and Wayne, hesitating.“You should stay, Stephen,” Wayne urged. “We’ve got plenty of guest rooms here at the courtyard house.”“Well, if you insist,
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Wayne stood off to the side, a little taken aback.The man in front of him looked every bit the part of a well-bred heir—polished suit, refined demeanor. And yet, he knew how to fight?“You sure you want to spar with me?”Stephen looked mildly surprised by her challenge.“Why not? Afraid you’ll lose?” Stellar raised a brow, a glint of mischief flashing in her eyes. “Relax, even if you do, I won’t tell anyone. Your secret’s safe with me.”He knew she was baiting him, but he still took the hook with a smirk. “Alright then, let’s see what you’ve got.”Stephen shrugged off his coat and hung it nearby, left in a crisp white dress shirt. With effortless precision, he rolled up his sleeves, his fingers moving with a fluid grace that was oddly captivating.Stellar gave her head a shake, forcing out the sudden thoughts that slipped in.“Ready... go!”She lunged forward, a sharp punch aimed straight at his face, but Stephen sidestepped neatly, twisting his body as his open hand shot out to gr
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"I never agreed to any of this. You made the arrangements on your own, so you should be the one to deal with the fallout. I'm not going."His tone was firm, and it instantly darkened Grace’s expression. “Stephen!”He'd always been cold toward her, but he had never flat-out embarrassed her like this.Suddenly, her thoughts turned to the woman she’d seen hidden away in his villa last time. Her gaze turned sharp.“It’s that woman, isn’t it? She’s the one filling your head with nonsense! I’m telling you now—I will never approve of that relationship!”Stephen, however, remained unfazed.He'd never had a close relationship with his parents. He didn’t care what they thought back then, and he didn’t now.“Then wait for Grandfather to return and ask him what he thinks.”Lately, Marcus had been overseas, traveling the world with his wife, and likely wouldn’t be back anytime soon.“You’re using your grandfather to pressure me now?”Grace let out a cold laugh. “Do you really think he’d accept ju
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 421
After watching the demonstration, Stellar quickly memorized it. She took a deep breath with her eyes closed, then opened them again, her gaze sharp. Moving step by step, she repeated the moves with precision.Wayne, who had been watching from the side, was dumbfounded.She wasn’t just mimicking the movements—her strength and control were spot on, powerful and exact.Everything Mary bragged about turned out to be true.In fact, it was even more impressive than she’d claimed.“She’s a natural martial arts prodigy!”Wayne’s eyes lit up as he grew even more excited. “Stellar, let me be your official mentor! Carry on my legacy! I’ll teach you everything I know, every move from my school—what do you say?”Before Stellar could respond, Mary exploded, “You shameless old man! She’s the one I picked as my apprentice! Who do you think you are?”“Don’t get cocky, you old hag! It’s up to Miss Stellar to decide which school she wants to follow. For all you know, she might prefer mine!” Wayne refus
As the Fake Heiress Rose to Power, the CEO Falls Apart Chapter 420
Mary was about to punch Hulk square in the face, fists clenched in fury at the way he’d just humiliated Stellar.But before she could move, Stellar stepped forward and gently patted her shoulder, calming her down. Then she turned to face the other side and spoke, her voice steady."You want to fight me? Fine. But I have one condition—it has to be an official match. “If your side loses, I want a public apology. And I want a banner that reads: 'Ironclad Academy lost to Rising Cloud Academy and left in disgrace.' “From that moment on, you stay away from us permanently."Her words left Mary and the others stunned."Listen to this one!" Hank barked out a laugh like he’d just heard the world’s best joke. "You really think you can take us down, little girl?"Stellar raised an eyebrow, a cool smirk tugging at her lips. "What, are you scared?""Who’s scared?" Hulk snapped, instantly provoked. "You want a fight? You’ve got one! But if you lose, you’ll get on your knees, bow your head, and d
