"You’re looking for the Walton younger… what business do you have with me?"Tessa's tone was casual, almost uninterested.Joseph, however, was thrilled.See? No woman could resist his charm. Not even the renowned Walton younger heiress.He flashed a confident smile. "I heard that Miss Walton is not only breathtakingly beautiful but also elegant and incredibly capable. With such a reputation, how could I not want to get to know you?"As he spoke, he even threw in a flirtatious wink.Tessa barely resisted the urge to shudder.Her entire body tensed with revulsion."Just here to make friends?" she asked, her voice laced with mock curiosity.Joseph’s expression turned suggestive. "Well, we could take things further. Spend some more time together, get to know each other better."Tessa’s sharp eyes narrowed slightly.Talking to this clown for even one more second is going to kill my brain cells.And to think that he had spent all this time running around trying to find Aurora?What did that
Grace's expression darkened even further.Aurora had already embarrassed the Walton family once by being involved with that man.And now?She still hadn’t learned her lesson?A heavy sigh of disappointment settled in Grace’s chest.She looked at Tessa and instructed, "Tessa, I know you have a kind heart, but this is something you don’t need to involve yourself in."She’s a grown woman now. She needs to be responsible for her own choices. She can’t always rely on us."Tessa hesitated for a moment, as if she had more to say, but in the end, she sighed and nodded."I’ll listen to you, Mom. I just hope my sister can be more sensible and not make you worry."Every word was laced with quiet concern, full of warmth and understanding.Grace looked at her thoughtful, considerate daughter, and inevitably, her mind drifted to Aurora.The comparison was unavoidable.And though the dissatisfaction passed in a fleeting moment, Tessa caught it clearly.A slow, knowing smile curled at the corners of h
"Aurora, just listen to me, okay? Give me a chance."Aurora’s patience snapped. "Let me go!""Do you even realize how disgusting this is? Don’t forget that you have my sister!"At the mention of Tessa, a flicker of something unreadable flashed through Julian’s drunken gaze.But instead of stopping, he tightened his hold, pulling Aurora closer."But we were supposed to be engaged first.""Aurora… I’ve always liked you."The moment those words left his mouth, a wave of revulsion crawled down Aurora’s spine.Her stomach churned, her skin prickling with sheer disgust. She fought against his grip, her movements frantic, but his strength—fueled by alcohol and determination—kept her trapped."Julian," she hissed, her voice shaking with anger. "If my sister finds out about this, she won’t let you off."She forced herself to meet his flushed face, bile rising in her throat."You’re engaged to Tessa. Everyone knows it. Do you think you can just pretend that doesn’t exist? Who the hell do you th
Hearing Tessa’s voice, Grace’s heart ached even more. Tessa was such a good child—she had just walked in on her own sister with her fiancé, yet she was still trying to comfort her. But then, Julian suddenly spoke. “Tessa, it’s my fault.” The moment he said that, all three women in the room turned to look at him. Even Aurora couldn’t help but glance over, surprise flickering in her eyes. Was he actually planning to admit to what he had just done? Tessa choked up. “Julian, how could you…” Even Grace’s expression turned uncertain. Had she wrongfully accused Aurora just now? But the next second, Julian looked remorseful. “I drank too much today. I was lying on the couch, a little out of it.” The moment Aurora heard this, she felt something was off. Sure enough, Julian continued. “I didn’t expect Aurora to come over and start saying all sorts of things, blaming Tessa for taking her engagement.” He lifted his head, his eyes slightly red, looking utterly innocent. T
Julian strode over to Tessa’s side, his face full of concern. “Tessa, are you okay?” “You’ve always been frail. Don’t cry anymore, alright? Seeing you like this makes me feel awful too.” He reassured her again and again. “Don’t worry. There’s nothing between Aurora and me. I only see her as a sister because of you.” Grace stood on Tessa’s other side, equally focused on her daughter’s health. In contrast, Aurora was painted as nothing more than a spiteful villain in this scene. At that moment, something clicked in Aurora’s mind. She had thought that staying out of their drama would be enough. But clearly, these people had a talent for being insufferable, one after another throwing themselves in her way. “Alright, Julian.” Aurora curled her lips in a mocking smile and nodded. “You really know how to talk. Even now, you still won’t admit it.” “What exactly do you want me to admit? Can’t you see how upset Tessa is? How can you still be so unreasonable?” Hearing this, Gr
Julian didn’t dare meet Aurora’s sharp gaze. His first instinct was to turn to Tessa, eager to explain himself. He knew that as long as he could coax her, nothing else mattered. “Tessa, let me explain—” But before he could finish, Tessa yanked her hand away from his grip. The usual delicate expression on her face was slipping, barely holding together. “The recording has already been played. What more do you want to say?” Her voice was filled with resentment and disbelief. “Are you going to tell me that the voice in the recording isn’t yours?” “I…” Julian’s eyes lit up, ready to claim that Aurora had fabricated the recording. But she beat him to it. “Julian, check the recording time. It was made just moments ago.” Aurora’s beautiful eyes narrowed slightly, her smile dazzling yet sharp—like a rose covered in thorns, beautiful but dangerous. “You don’t have to worry. I didn’t have the time to tamper with anything. Besides, these were your own words, weren’t they?”
Grace had always been strong-willed. As the chairwoman of Walton Corporation—and a woman at that—she had to contend with board members who were nothing short of predators. It wasn’t hard to imagine how difficult it had been for her to survive in that world. But she had never spoken of it to Aurora. The only thing she ever emphasized was that Aurora had to inherit the company, to stand on her own as soon as possible. In Aurora’s memories, her mother had always been strict, relentless in her pursuit of perfection. This was the first time she had ever uttered an apology. Grace watched Aurora remain silent, a hint of unease creeping in. She lowered her gaze, long lashes veiling the disappointment in her eyes. Thinking back, she had indeed been too harsh. Why had she not stopped to ask questions before taking Julian’s side? Between her own daughter and an outsider, how had she chosen to believe someone else? In that moment, Grace realized just how deeply she had misu
Grace nodded in satisfaction at Aurora’s response. “Alright, I’ll be waiting. Just let me know in advance.” Aurora inclined her head, though inwardly, she wondered if Lucas would even have time for this. After all, he might still be busy entertaining his so-called true love. “By the way, Mom.” Aurora suddenly spoke up, looking at Grace. Grace arched a brow, signaling her to continue. “My sister… What do you plan to do about Julian?” Aurora had almost wanted to address him as her brother-in-law out of habit but quickly corrected herself. A man like him wasn’t worthy of that title. At the mention of Julian’s name, Grace’s expression darkened, her authoritative demeanor returning in an instant. “Don’t worry about that. I’ll handle it.” She paused for a moment before adding, unable to suppress herself, “Your sister already admitted that she failed to keep things in check.” “She’ll give us an explanation. Give her some time, she was just as deceived as the rest of us.”
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