In the meeting roomAurora Walton’s proposal moved away from the conventional, repetitive spa retreat designs. Instead, she blended the lush, tropical ambiance of Caribbean resorts with the sleek elegance of Scandinavian minimalism.Each section of the wellness resort featured a unique theme—"Celestial Springs," "Woodland Retreat," and "Botanical Haven"—creating a diverse and immersive experience for guests.She introduced interactive elements, such as hot spring yoga and water parks, making the resort more engaging for visitors.The SPA partnership plan was equally refreshing—no longer limited to domestic brands, her proposal included collaborations with renowned international wellness brands, elevating the resort’s luxury and appeal.For dining, she went beyond traditional health-focused cuisine, incorporating local specialty dishes, ensuring a wider variety of options to cater to different tastes.The accommodation area was also upgraded with smart technology—each room would be equi
"Mr. Joseph… I… I really didn’t expect that girl to…" Chuck swallowed hard, his voice shaking. "She… she’s nothing like she was when she first joined the company!" "Nothing like before? What do you mean? Spit it out!" Joseph cut him off impatiently, his tone dripping with disdain. "Didn’t you tell me before that you had her wrapped around your finger? Now you can’t even handle one woman? What the hell do I need you for?" Chuck felt his stomach churn. His hands trembled as he tried to explain. "Joseph, she… she’s different now. I… I’m no match for her at all." He then exaggerated the events of that morning, emphasizing how Aurora had effortlessly flipped him over her shoulder and completely humiliated him in front of the entire office. "Over-the-shoulder throw?" Joseph’s voice carried a hint of disbelief. "A grown man like you got thrown by a woman?" He sounded as if he had just heard the most ridiculous joke of his life, his words laced with mockery. "Chuck, y
Lucas’ deep voice came through the receiver, laced with a hint of exhaustion and a faint smile. Aurora paused, glancing at the time in the corner of her screen. "Aren’t you busy today? How do you have time to pick me up?" She clicked open another document, her eyes scanning through its contents. "I planned this ahead of time," Lucas said, his voice softening. "There are too many shady people around lately. I don’t feel safe letting you go home alone." A subtle warmth rose in Aurora’s chest. She absentmindedly touched her earlobe, the corners of her lips curving up. "I need to work a little longer. This report is due tomorrow." "Then I’ll come up and keep you company." Before she could stop him, the call ended. "Wait—" Aurora tried to protest, but the line had already gone dead. She stared at her phone for a moment before instinctively scanning the office. Even though it was after hours, a few coworkers were still at their desks, finishing up their work. If
Aurora took the piece of bread from Lucas and took a small bite. The warm, toasty flavor mixed with a subtle sweetness, instantly washing away the fatigue of working overtime. Lucas watched her intently, his gaze soft and gentle, a faint smile playing at the corners of his lips. The last rays of sunlight filtered through the glass windows, casting a golden glow over his sharp features, making him look even more striking. The faint scent of his cologne, mingling with the rich aroma of coffee, created a calming and intoxicating presence. With broad shoulders and a strong, upright posture, every inch of him exuded the quiet confidence of a mature man. "You got this from downstairs?" Aurora swallowed her bite and looked up at him, a hint of surprise in her voice. Lucas nodded, a trace of warmth flickering in his deep-set eyes. "I was going to come straight up, but I saw a few of your coworkers still around. I figured you wouldn’t want the attention, so I went to grab some
Aurora leaned back in her seat. "It's so late. Where are we going?" "I have a friend who runs a racetrack in the mountains. Want to check it out?" Lucas turned the steering wheel. "The view at night is stunning. You can see the entire city skyline from up there." Aurora paused for a moment, then her eyes lit up with excitement. "Street racing? Seriously?" She straightened in her seat. "I used to race with my friends back in college, but after I started working, I barely had time for it." "Perfect. Tonight, you can relive the thrill." Lucas smirked and increased the speed slightly. The car sped toward the mountain racetrack. The cool night air drifted in through the half-open window, carrying the crisp scent of the hills, sweeping away the fatigue of the day. Before long, the black Maybach pulled into the racetrack’s parking lot at the mountaintop. As the car came to a stop, Lucas got out first and walked around to open the door for Aurora like a gentleman. A man dres
Aurora leaned drowsily against Lucas, her warm breath brushing against his neck, carrying a faint trace of alcohol. She lifted a hand and lazily poked his chest, her fingertip tracing circles on his shirt. "Lucas, why… why are you so tall?" Lucas’s gaze darkened slightly. His Adam’s apple moved as he swallowed, his voice deep and steady. "You’re drunk." "I’m not drunk!" Aurora muttered in protest, wrapping her arms around his neck and hanging onto him completely. "I’m perfectly clear-headed! I just… just think you look really good." She tilted her head up, her hazy almond eyes gazing at him. The corners of her eyes were slightly flushed, carrying a hint of intoxication that made her look irresistibly sweet and delicate. Lucas felt a sudden warmth surge through his chest, a current of electricity running through his body. Suppressing the emotions rising inside him, he kept his tone as calm as possible. "Stop messing around. Let’s get you inside." With that, he scoope
The next morning, Aurora was jolted awake by the sound of her alarm.She rubbed her sleepy eyes and reached out toward the other side of the bed, only to find it empty.Lucas hadn’t come home last night.A flicker of unreadable emotion flashed across her eyes.Throwing off the covers, she stepped onto the cool floor and walked to the wardrobe. She casually picked out a beige knit sweater and a pair of black wide-leg pants.After washing up, she grabbed a quick breakfast before heading out the door.At the office, Aurora sat at her desk, powered on her computer, and started working.But no matter how hard she tried, she just couldn’t focus.Images of Lucas’ cold expression from last night when he answered that call, his hurried departure—it all kept replaying in her mind.She made herself a cup of hot coffee, the warmth gradually clearing her head, allowing her to finally immerse herself in work.As the end of the workday approached, her phone screen lit up with a messenger notification
Aurora's expression turned icy the moment she heard his words.She met Joseph’s gaze head-on, her eyes sharp as blades. "Joseph, watch your mouth. My life has nothing to do with you. How I live is none of your damn business."Joseph was momentarily stunned by her retort, but he quickly recovered, putting on his usual condescending act."Capability? Aurora, what capability do you have? You’re nothing now! Without me, you’re just a worthless nobody!"His words were sharp, but they didn't faze her.She had long seen through Joseph’s hypocrisy and arrogance.Once, she had thought he was her salvation, her guiding light.But in the end, he had only ever seen her as something to manipulate and control at will."Joseph." Aurora’s voice was calm as she spoke."Three years ago, I was blind to ever like you. But now, I see clearly. You mean nothing to me. And I, Aurora Walton, am not someone you can insult however you please."Something in her resolute gaze seemed to sting Joseph. His expressio
Wendy avoided her gaze, pretending not to understand what Aurora was saying."What are you talking about, Aurora? I don’t get what you mean."Aurora let out a cold scoff, saying nothing, just watching this woman put on her little act.Her performance was so clumsy that anyone with half a brain wouldn’t fall for it.But of course, someone actually did.Rachel jumped in without a second thought, standing protectively in front of Wendy. She snapped at Aurora, "Don’t make things hard for Wendy. She can say whatever she wants. It’s none of your business."You’re nothing more than Wendy’s shadow anyway."That line struck a nerve. Aurora’s fingers curled into a tight fist.Even Leonard couldn’t help but glance at her.Her face turned grim, eyes locked coldly on Wendy.So, this was what Wendy had been spreading behind her back. And now, with Lucas nowhere around, she didn’t even bother keeping up the act.This was the good little childhood friend Lucas always talked about?Wendy tugged at Ra
Leonard spoke up at just the right moment. "That’s how she shows affection—by staring at someone she likes without blinking."Aurora’s smile widened. With a casual wave, she ordered a few more desserts that kids usually loved.Watching the two of them together, Leonard felt a warmth bloom in his chest, so full it nearly overflowed.That afternoon, the three of them arrived at the biggest mall in the city—Grand Zen Mall.They had a clear goal and headed straight for the clothing section on the third floor.Faced with rows of colorful children’s clothes, Aurora felt a bit overwhelmed by all the choices.Leonard, carrying little Nora in his arms, followed closely beside her."Aurora, should we head straight to the kids’ section?""Yeah, just through the women’s section. The children’s clothes are right past it."The moment Leonard heard the words women’s section, his eyes lit up and he quickly suggested, "Well, since we’re not in a rush this afternoon, do you want to take a look at some
"Balancing adults and children—that’s what real living is about. Just getting back to the essence of life."Aurora's eyes lit up. "You’re absolutely right!"Leonard didn’t say much in response. He knew exactly what kind of design Aurora liked.This concept was grounded in everyday life—something close, something real.That was why he was confident. He knew Aurora would love this design."Alright, I’ll show this to the chairman."Her gaze toward Leonard was filled with appreciation.This was real talent, and someone the Walton Corporation couldn’t afford to lose.Her mother was right. They couldn’t let him go work elsewhere.The two of them went on to discuss more ideas around the project. The deeper the conversation went, the more Aurora admired Leonard.And Leonard felt the same—refreshed, even exhilarated.It had been a long time since he’d met someone who clicked with him so well.Not to mention, people who could keep up with his thought process were rare to begin with.But Aurora
Tolerating her once or twice was fine, but it just became annoying after having to do it too many times.He had his own life too. There was no reason to waste all his time on her. No need at all.After breakfast, Aurora headed to work at Walton Corporation.This time, she drove herself.As usual, the receptionist greeted her politely."By the way, Miss Walton, I saw Mr. Knight waiting in the reception room."Aurora nodded. "Got it."She was a little surprised. The design draft was supposed to take three days—it had only been two. Leonard was already here?That thought stirred a bit of excitement in her.When she entered the lounge, sure enough, Leonard and Nora were already there.Hearing the sound of heels, Nora tensed at first. But once she saw Aurora, her expression clearly relaxed.Leonard’s smile widened slowly as he looked at Aurora."Sorry for bothering you so early."Aurora smiled and countered, "You’re being too polite. Besides, this is my working hour anyway."Leonard cons
But the next morning, when Wendy saw the two of them walk out of the room together, the smile on her face instantly froze.Aurora found her stunned expression amusing.In fact, she even greeted her cheerfully. "Morning. Why’s your mouth hanging open like that?"At that, Wendy quickly tried to manage her expression.She shot a panicked glance at Lucas, only to see him eyeing her with quiet scrutiny.Awkwardly, Wendy explained, "It’s nothing. I just haven’t seen you for a couple of days. I was surprised. I thought you were mad and decided not to come back..."The moment those words landed, the look in Lucas' eyes turned icy cold.He’d just managed to coax Aurora back—what was Wendy trying to do?Sure enough, when Wendy glanced at him again, she got a glare in return.But she didn’t care. With her childhood bond with Lucas, the one who’d end up pushed aside would be Aurora—the outsider who came in later.She was hoping Aurora would lose her temper and go file for divorce right away.Even
Aurora turned her gaze away. "Don’t you know exactly what I mean? You’re even living with her now, and you still say you don’t know?"Men really were all the same, no matter who they were. Even at a time like this, he was still pretending not to get it.Lucas finally realized that Aurora was talking about Wendy.So that was what had been bothering her all along. No wonder she kept picking fights with him. It turned out that his Rora was jealous.The moment he figured it out, a surge of energy coursed through him. He no longer felt weak and powerless—the fire in his eyes was striking."You really don’t know who my true love is?"Aurora looked at him in shock, only to meet his eyes that seemed to hold a teasing glint.There was a sparkle in his gaze, filled with emotions she couldn’t quite decipher.Aurora parted her lips slightly and asked uncertainly, "Am I supposed to know?"Looking at her adorable expression, Lucas pulled her into his arms even tighter, resting his forehead ag
Aurora stood in front of the wardrobe, feeling a little awkward.Looking at Lucas like this, she wasn’t sure what she felt.Usually, he was cold and aloof, like someone untouchable.The only times his emotions ever surfaced around her were in bed.Other than that, he always appeared gentle, calm, and composed.This was the first time she’d ever seen Lucas so helpless.Aurora couldn’t help but lower her voice. "Lucas, let go of me first.""No..."His head felt increasingly foggy, but he was still fully aware of what he was doing.With that thought, he tightened his arms around her.Only then did Aurora realize something wasn’t right.She pushed aside the confusing mess of emotions in her chest, turned around, and pressed her palm to his forehead. She gasped, "You're burning up! Are you running a fever? Did you take any medicine?"Lucas stubbornly clung to his need for an answer. "Don’t be mad at me, okay? Rora, I just want an answer. Nothing else matters.""How can it not matter!" Auro
The manager looked a little puzzled. "Sort of. We do have quite a few conflicting projects with Walton Corporation, but don’t worry, Miss Shaws, we and Walton…"Before he could finish, Wendy cut him off. "I already know the rest. Just assign me to the projects that go head-to-head with Walton Corporation."The manager was stunned.To be honest, Walton Corporation was indeed a formidable competitor. On top of that, they’d recently aligned themselves with Vanguard Group. Their standing in Ravenshore had surged dramatically."Miss Shaws, you haven’t been in the country much, so you might not be too familiar with Walton Corporation. They’re actually quite capable."Wendy replied with obvious displeasure, "So what? If they weren’t, I’d find it boring. I want this project. You don’t need to worry about the rest."Here, Wendy was putting on her full heiress airs.The manager clenched his fists, recalling what the higher-ups had said. In the end, he nodded without realizing it. "Right, got
Now that she’d come to terms with it, Tessa knew she couldn’t let things keep going smoothly for Aurora. She needed to start planning for her own future. Sitting nearby with a soft, pleasant smile, Tessa appeared to everyone else like the embodiment of warmth and grace.But to Aurora, it felt unsettling. That smile of Tessa’s reeked of falsehood—she was definitely up to something. Aurora’s eyes flickered with a trace of coldness, but she pushed down the feeling and stayed quiet. After breakfast, Grace and Aurora shared a car to the office. The ride was surprisingly pleasant, as if last night’s tension had completely evaporated. Aurora liked this kind of peaceful interaction, and she didn’t have the heart to ruin the rare calm. Unfortunately, the moment didn’t last long, before she knew it, they had arrived. Each went to her own office and got to work. Aurora was already well-versed in most of the company’s operations. The only thing left on her plate was evaluating