In the Name of Ambition

In the Name of Ambition

last updateLast Updated : 2025-05-07
By:  Noely SilvaUpdated just now
Language: English
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Leonel Baumann, the relentless patriarch of a vast financial empire, decides it's time for his grandchildren to leave behind a life of excess and unchecked ambition. Concerned about the family's future, Leonel sets his own rules for the heirs to secure their places and claim their shares of the inheritance. Thus, you are introduced to the saga of the four siblings: Aaron, Anton, Axel, and Anneliese. Four heirs are determined to do whatever it takes to achieve their goals and secure the Baumann legacy.

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Chapter 1

Prologue

Truth or Dare

Anton

The empty glass bottle spun again, and this time it landed on Pietra, the most beautiful girl in the entire school, whom I'd been in love with for exactly two years, ever since the first moment my eyes met the brightest, blackest eyes in the world.  

"Your turn, Pietra!" Priscila said excitedly. "Truth or dare?"  

Pietra smiled. She always smiles. Her eyes also smile, even when she isn't smiling.  

"Truth!" Pietra chose.  

I did not doubt her choice. Pietra would never risk getting a dare because she's always so straight-laced, completely the opposite of me, but that would never be a problem between us. I love her just the way she is.  

"What are you going to do from now on?" Priscila asked.  

Some people expressed disappointment, clearly thinking the question was boring. But that question was perfect for me. Pietra is always so reserved about her life outside of school that only this way could I hear from her what her plans are now that we're finishing high school.  

"I got a scholarship to a college in England," Pietra shared excitedly. "I'm going to London in two months."  

That news caught me by surprise. London? It wouldn’t be a problem for me, of course. I have enough money to visit her as many times as I want. I released the breath I had held for a brief moment.  

Everyone applauded and celebrated Pietra’s big achievement, but we soon returned to our game, and a few rounds later, it was my turn to be asked truth or dare.  

"Dare, for sure!" I said with a loud laugh.  

I couldn't risk being exposed in front of the girl I love. There are aspects of my life it's better Pietra doesn't know about, I thought with a sly smile. Yes, I love her, but I also have my needs.  

I was forced to take two shots of tequila, which wasn't hard for me at all. We got back to the game, a few more rounds, and the bottle once again pointed at Pietra. By that time, I had drunk quite a bit, things seemed a little blurry, and I wasn’t sure if I could still hide how special that girl is to me.  

"Truth!" She cheerfully chose.  

"Are you still a virgin?" The question, of course, came from that idiot Tony.  

"You don't have to answer that!" I said, raising my voice in annoyance.  

"Calm down, Anton!" Maria Luiza urged, holding my arm. "Pietra knows it's just a game. No one's forcing her to do anything."  

"Yes, Tony, I’m still a virgin," Pietra answered. "I’m only seventeen!"  

Everyone laughed at Pietra's words since age has nothing to do with sexual experience, but I wasn't surprised by my girl's way of thinking. She’s always so proper, I thought with a smile.  

Pietra, still with a slight blush on her cheeks, spun the bottle once more, this time pointing at none other than me, Anton.  

"Truth or dare, Anton?" she asked, with a curious and playful look.  

I stared at Pietra for a brief moment, feeling my heart beat faster. The truth was tempting; I wanted to reveal my true feelings, but a pang of fear made me hesitate. Hiding my love for so long had created a comfort zone, and admitting it could change everything. Still, something inside me screamed, to be honest, to risk it all.  

"Truth," I finally answered, deciding to be honest, at least this time.  

Pietra's eyes met mine, seeming to search for something more than just an answer to the game’s question.  

"You always flirt with a lot of girls, but you’ve never really gotten involved with any of them. Why?" she asked bluntly.  

"In other words, Anton," Lucas cut in before I could answer, "you hook up with everyone, but you’ve never dated anyone. That’s what she’s saying."  

"Everyone understood what she said," Anneliese chimed in, rolling her eyes as if she were bored.  

Anneliese is my sister, and she really must’ve been bored, I thought with amusement.  

"Guys, let Anton answer!" Priscila tried to steer the game back on track.  

Now all eyes were on me. Our senior class was waiting for my answer. Only the background music continued playing, and I realized that every face had a smile of expectation, waiting for some sarcastic response.  

"Because I’m in love with you, Pietra," I confessed, forgetting about all the people around us.  

The moment my words echoed in the room, the mood changed instantly. The air became heavy and tense, and the excited expression on Pietra’s face vanished. Her reaction was the last thing I expected.  

"I... I need to go... now," she said with a trembling voice, glancing nervously at the watch on her wrist.  

The storm of emotions on her face was evident. Pietra stood up quickly, avoiding looking at me, and ran out of the room. Without thinking twice, I ignored everyone’s curiosity and comments and decided to follow her. I found Pietra already on the sidewalk.  

"Pietra, wait!" I called, running to catch up with her.  

She stopped but still avoided looking directly at me. Her silence made me nervous, but I had to know what was going on.  

"I’m sorry, Pietra, I... I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable. I just... had to say what was here," I said, pointing to my heart.  

Finally, Pietra raised her eyes to meet mine. The sadness in her gaze was palpable.  

"Anton, I’m so sorry..." she began, her voice heavy with emotion. "I didn’t know you felt this way. I have a boyfriend, Tales. And... I’m in love with him."  

Her words hit me like a knife to the heart. I had never felt such deep pain before. Everything I feared had just become reality.  

"I didn’t know..." I murmured, struggling to hold back the sadness threatening to overwhelm me.  

Pietra looked at me with compassion, but her words were firm.  

"Anton, you’re a nice guy, but we both know we’re very different. I like you as a friend, but... I can’t see myself being involved with someone like you. You’re a playboy, always surrounded by girls, and I... I want someone responsible and treats me with care."  

Her words felt like successive blows to my heart. She was right.  

"I understand," I murmured. "Sorry for messing everything up."  

Pietra put a hand on my shoulder, showing understanding.  

"It’s not your fault, Anton. We’re just different. And I never imagined I could hurt you."  

I knew she was being sincere, but it didn’t lessen the pain I felt. Pietra gave me a comforting hug before pulling away.  

At that moment, a car pulled up in front of Priscila's house, where we had been having our farewell party.  

"I have to go now," she said, looking at the parked car.  

I nodded, unable to say anything else as I realized that was probably her boyfriend. Pietra walked away and left me with a broken heart, feeling like I could never be the man she wanted, and without the slightest desire to fight to change that.

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Ruth Andersen
Interesting storyline.
2025-03-19 17:44:44
1
85 Chapters
Prologue
Truth or DareAntonThe empty glass bottle spun again, and this time it landed on Pietra, the most beautiful girl in the entire school, whom I'd been in love with for exactly two years, ever since the first moment my eyes met the brightest, blackest eyes in the world. "Your turn, Pietra!" Priscila said excitedly. "Truth or dare?" Pietra smiled. She always smiles. Her eyes also smile, even when she isn't smiling. "Truth!" Pietra chose. I did not doubt her choice. Pietra would never risk getting a dare because she's always so straight-laced, completely the opposite of me, but that would never be a problem between us. I love her just the way she is. "What are you going to do from now on?" Priscila asked. Some people expressed disappointment, clearly thinking the question was boring. But that question was perfect for me. Pietra is always so reserved about her life outside of school that only this way could I hear from her what her plans are now that we're finishing high school
last updateLast Updated : 2025-02-17
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Irresponsible
Seven years laterAntonI got out of the pool and looked around for a towel, which soon appeared in my hands. I scanned the area, searching for someone interesting among the many girls lounging around the deck of the massive, luxurious yacht, but none of them caught my attention. Always the same girls. Or maybe they just all looked alike. "What do you think about a boat ride to one of the islands?" "Not in the mood to get all sandy," I declined. The invitation came from Tony, my best friend and regular partner in my wild escapades. "Oh, stop being so uptight!" Tony complained, rolling his eyes. "You’re gonna miss out on a great trip." "Wow, I don’t think I’ll ever get over that…" I said sarcastically, taking the opportunity to call out to the nearest person. "Hey, girl! Bring me a beer!" The girl obeyed my request, and I sat back down on one of the sun loungers, enjoying the sea breeze. Tony probably went ahead with his plans, and soon enough, I had two girls trying to get
last updateLast Updated : 2025-02-17
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Reunion
PietraI never imagined that one day I could run into Anton again. I’m lying. Maybe I did dream about this moment a few times. Maybe I even fantasized about this meeting during a few sleepless nights, imagining all the details and what we would say to each other. But everything has changed. I’m not the same naive girl, full of dreams about Prince Charming anymore. " Hi, Anton," I replied with as much coldness as I could muster in my voice. "I never would’ve imagined you frequenting snack bars on the outskirts of the city." " It wasn’t something I planned, I admit," Anton said with a broad smile. "I had no idea you worked here. I thought you were still living in London!" It was painful to hear that. It touched an old wound that still hadn’t healed. The dream of studying in London was just that—a dream that never came true. And I don’t talk about that subject. " I need to get back to work," I had no desire to be friendly. "Enjoy your meal." " But there aren’t any customers her
last updateLast Updated : 2025-02-17
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The Patriarch's Whim
Leonel BaumannI invited my grandchildren and Ettore to dinner at the mansion. It was time to decide the future of Baumann Industries, and I needed everyone present for the occasion. Berenice, my dear wife, was by my side, giving me supportive glances. The dining room, with its grand chandelier and antique furniture, was set for a memorable evening.As we settled at the table, I observed the tense faces of my grandchildren. Aaron, with his rigid posture and impeccable suit, was expecting something important. Paolla, beside him, tried to hide her anxiety, but the glint in her eyes betrayed her. Axel, always suspicious, wore a serious expression, while Anton, carefree, fiddled with his phone as Annelise laughed at something he said.Ettore, the son of a late former employee and my trusted confidant, was also present. To me, he is like a son. His actions have always been guided by loyalty and integrity—something rare these days.Dinner passed with formal conversation, but I could feel th
last updateLast Updated : 2025-02-17
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The Patriarch’s Whims
AntonAt the gas station, I bought a can of gas and returned to the car. As I filled the tank, I realized my life seemed to be in stark contrast to that reality. It’s strange to think that this neighborhood was relatively close to mine, in the same city. I tried to shift my thoughts away from the encounter with Pietra. There was something different about her, an aura of sadness and bitterness that didn’t exist before. I remembered the lively, smiling girl I once knew, with bright eyes and many plans for the future. What could have happened to change her so much? I drove to my house, an imposing mansion in the Pinheiros neighborhood of São Paulo. Fortunately, I didn’t run into anyone in the hallways. I wasn’t in my best moment, and this gave me time to better prepare for the dinner later on. Leonel Baumann, my grandfather and the all-powerful patriarch of the Baumann family, had summoned everyone to the mansion for dinner that evening. After resting, I was able to properly prepar
last updateLast Updated : 2025-02-17
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A Bold Plan
AaronI watched my grandfather leave the room with firm steps, leaving behind a mixture of disbelief and shock on our faces. Could he be imposing such a condition to hand over control of Baumann Industries? A great-grandchild? Was that really what he wanted in exchange for power?I glanced at Paolla, my wife, sitting next to me. She looked as beautiful as ever, her posture perfect and her face expressionless. Paolla had always been the ideal trophy wife, from a traditional family in São Paulo. Elegant, educated—exactly what I needed to keep up appearances. But children? That was a topic we had never seriously discussed.Before I could say anything, Axel headed to the luxurious bar in the corner of the room. He grabbed a bottle of whiskey and poured himself a generous glass.“Does anyone else want some?” he asked, his voice dripping with sarcasm and disdain. He looked at us, knowing full well the chances of any takers were slim.Annelise was the first to stand up, still wearing an amus
last updateLast Updated : 2025-02-17
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A Tempting Offer
RebeccaLeaving my hometown wasn’t an easy decision, but it was necessary. My passion for painting has always been a constant in my life. My parents, devout followers of a simple and religious life, never understood that passion. To them, my art was a foolish distraction. “You need to focus on the important things, Rebecca. God has plans for you, but painting is not one of them,” my father would always say, his tone severe and inflexible. My mother, though more understanding, also couldn’t see beyond the limited horizon of our small town in the countryside of São Paulo. When I finally decided to leave, I was scared but determined. I gathered all my savings, packed my few clothes and painting materials into a backpack, and left a letter for my parents explaining my departure. I took the first bus to São Paulo, my head full of plans and expectations. When I finally got off at the busiest subway station in the capital, I felt a mix of excitement and fear. Everything was new and i
last updateLast Updated : 2025-02-17
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Reliving the Past
PietraI was in the kitchen, finishing the last preparations for dinner, when I heard the door to the living room open. I immediately recognized the sound, but the excited smile that Andressa brought with her was new. I greeted her with a kiss on the cheek, curious to know the reason for all her enthusiasm." Did something happen that I don’t know about?" I asked, trying to contain my smile at seeing her radiant expression. Andressa didn’t wait a second to share the news: " I got the part-time job at the store near home!" she announced, her words overflowing with joy. I felt a mixture of pride and relief for her. At eighteen, and just starting her journalism course, it was a big step to balance work and studies. I celebrated with her: " That’s wonderful!" I cheered, happy with the news. "Now go wash your hands so we can have dinner while Isaque is still awake." Andressa immediately obeyed, and soon we were sitting at the table in our small kitchen. Dinner was peaceful, a mom
last updateLast Updated : 2025-03-19
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New Rejection
AntonThe first thing that crossed my mind when I woke up was the memory of my encounter with Pietra. I had tossed and turned in bed for a long time before finally managing to fall asleep the night before, her face still fresh in my mind. I got up, feeling the need to do something that would distract me from that constant loop of thoughts. I checked the clock and realized it was already past ten in the morning, a normal time for me to wake up. After a quick shower, I got dressed and headed down to the ground floor of the house, where the dining room was located—the place where my family usually had breakfast. No one was there, which was also something that happened often. My grandparents would have breakfast together before Leonel headed to the Baumann Industries headquarters, while Grandma always found something to keep herself busy. Looking through the glass window that took up the entire wall of the dining room, I saw Berenice in the garden, tending to some flowers. “Good mor
last updateLast Updated : 2025-03-19
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Disappointed
Anton Two days later, I arrived at my grandparents’ mansion a little after one o’clock and found them in the living room.“Hi, son! I thought you were still in Camboriú,” my grandmother commented with surprise.  “Tony had work commitments, and we decided to come back early,” I explained.  With a deep sigh, I sat on the sofa close to where Grandma was.  “Is something going on, Anton? You seem worried.”  I hesitated for a moment but ultimately decided to share what I was feeling. My grandmother is an exceptional person, and we have a close relationship.  
last updateLast Updated : 2025-03-20
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