After introducing them to the audience, Asher helped her to sit down properly on the golden chair. "I wish your grandfather was here to witness this happy moment," Gloria spoke softly, her voice echoed across the silent ballroom as she wiped away the tear that slid down her wrinkled cheek. Her eyes held some memories of her husband who had improved the growth of the empire from little, and dreamed of seeing his legacy continue. "Everyone, I have an announcement to make here. I would like you all to listen attentively," Gloria declared. The serious expression on her face commanded instant respect. The grand ballroom fell into deep silence. Every eye in the room focused on the matriarch of the Jackson family. "Thank you all for attending my 80th birthday celebration, I appreciate you all." Gloria said, her eyes watery. "Tonight is not just about marking another year of my life, but about securing the future of our family legacy. I hereby announce on this special day that Ashe
Asher assured her everything was in control. "You don't have to be worried, your grandmother has been transferred to another hospital within my security range.""When can I get to see her? " Ivana asked, her voice trembling with worry."You will see her very soon, we are trying not to alert Brooklyn. We also have to be careful so we don't alert him of your grandmother's whereabouts.” “Trust me, you will get to see her soon, but we have to show our faces together for my grandmother's birthday." He informed her, his tone both reassuring her.Ivana's face squeezed at the mention of Brooklyn's name. "What if he finds where she is? What if he hurts her because of me?""He can't do that," Asher said firmly, stepping closer to her. "My security team is there, it is our family hospital and the location is completely secure." Asher added.She looked at him with desperate eyes. "I just hope she's safe. I hope he won't harm you too…he has underground connections…”"So do I, the Jackson's will
She turned around, her arms crossed over her chest. She was shocked as the person barged inside the room "Sorry about barging in like that," Elizabeth said with a scorn on her face. She ordered the maid helping Ivana to leave the room.She closed the door behind her, her expression was cold. "I just want to speak with you privately."Ivana just wrapped her gown around her shoulders, and said. "This isn't the right time to talk to Mrs Harrington. As you can see your daughter ruined my dress. What do you have to say?" Ivana asked her abruptly.“Oh really, that's not too bad.” Elizabeth smirked at her, unconcerned about what Ava did.“I just want to tell you that Ava belongs to Asher. Let's not play games here. We both know this marriage is a business arrangement. How much would it take for you to walk away?"Ivana's eyes widened in surprise. "Excuse me ma'am?" “My daughter had been arranged to be a Jackson since childhood. She won't make the mistake of letting another woman snatch h
"Sister, kindly open your present. I'm sure it will be more valuable than what we presented," Anna stated, giving a satisfied look with Gloria and Cassie. The grand ballroom was filled with curious guests who watched with anticipation. Ivana's heartbeat increased, but she maintained her composure. It was her first real introduction to Asher's family and relatives, and she could feel the weight of judgment from some of the guests.Cassie stepped forward, urging Ivana with a fake smile plastered on her face. “Yes, it would be really nice if you could show us your present here,”"We're all so curious about the lovely present you want to offer at this wonderful occasion.” Anna added, cheering her. Ivana finally unwrapped the painting carefully. She had spent most of her time on this painting, pouring her emotions through every brushstroke. When the painting was fully opened, a gasp escaped Gloria's lips. Gloria's eyes widened in surprise. "Wow, this painting is beautiful," Gloria
Ivana turned to find herself face to face with a stunning blonde woman in a beautiful red dress. The woman's smile didn't reach her eyes."I'm Ava Harrington," the woman continued, her gaze sweeping critically over Ivana. "I am one of Asher's relatives.""It's nice to meet you," Ivana replied, smiling. She noticed how she smirked at her, she smelt jealousy from Ava.Ava's eyes fell on the wrapped package in Ivana's hands."What's that? A present for Gloria Jackson? You do know she has three homes filled with priceless gifts, do you know that?" She laughed lightly.Before Ivana could respond, another voice joined the conversation."Ava, darling, is this the mysterious new wife?" A middle aged woman with the same blonde hair approached, eyeing Ivana with a disapproving look."I'm Elizabeth Harrington, Ava's mother and a dear relative to the Jacksons." She replied with a smirk on her face."Pleased to meet you," Ivana said. She played along with them."Hmm, yes, is there more to your bea
Asher opened the door to her room. He gently closed the door behind him, the soft click barely audible in the quiet space.Just then, Ivana came out from the bathroom completely naked. She had forgotten to pick up the towel from the stand, distracted by her train of thoughts earlier.She froze in shock upon seeing him standing inside her room, water droplets still cascading down her skin. "Oh my God…" she stammered.Asher was lost in thoughts, his eyes taking in her curved body. His eyes darkened, filled with desire."What are you doing here?" she demanded, jolting him back from his thoughts.Ivana immediately grabbed the silk robe hanging on the bathroom door and covered herself. Her cheeks bloomed pink with embarrassment as she clutched the robe tightly against her body.She wondered why she kept finding herself in these embarrassing situations today. First the misunderstood almost kiss at dinner, and now this."I'm sorry," Asher said, his voice deeper than usual as he cleared his