With Berta's departure, the vast living room was now a solo stage for Calista.She glanced around, taking in Yara's warning about five visible surveillance cameras and the potential for hidden ones in uncharted territories. Who were they monitoring? Was it her?During Calista's first visit, Berta and the mysterious man had the manor entirely themselves. However, Berta had just disclosed that the unidentified man had left. So, who was on the upper floor?Calista felt her heart race amidst the eerie silence. Her heartbeats seemed to resonate uncomfortably close to her ears. Thump ... Thump âĶShe pivoted and gracefully climbed the staircase, her steps nearly silent thanks to the plush carpet and the soft-soled disposable slippers on her feet.The study was on the second floor, yet there was no sign of anyone as she reached the corridor on this level. A faint, distant sound, too low to discern, seemed to originate from the third floor.Calista's hand rested on the granite handrail of
Calista's gaze traveled from Lucian's arm to his face, and she couldn't help but notice his thick, well-groomed hair, which seemed to be meticulously maintained.Lucian furrowed his brows, puzzled by the affectionate look in her eyes."Why are you staring at me like that?"Calista responded casually, "I think you look rather handsome."A mischievous idea of playfully cutting Lucian's hair crossed her mind. Lucian didn't pick up on the subtle undertone of her reply.He interpreted her remark as a compliment, and a faint smile appeared on his lips. Nevertheless, his smile faded as he considered that this might be the only redeeming quality Calista saw in him.Lucian asked, "Do you question it when I say it's always been you?"Calista paused briefly, then responded, "I suppose we were mere acquaintances before our marriage."That was a bit of an overstatement. Lucian and Calista were practically strangers. They didn't even exchange nods when they bumped into each other, especially
Cade tried to hide his surprise after Lucian shot him an intense gaze.After a brief pause, he took another sip of his drink and spoke, "No. But for physical issues like yours, it's best to consult a professional or perhaps try some, um, supplements."Discussing such matters could indeed be a blow to a man's pride. Cade usually engaged in playful banter, poking fun at Lucian's bedroom skills.However, if this turned out to be a genuine issue, it would be challenging to maintain their usual lighthearted teasing.Even Cade, known for his easy-going nature and ability to stay calm during crises, was at a loss for words. After he spoke, he hung his head and swiftly downed two glasses of alcohol.Lucian fixed a frigid gaze on Cade, restraining the impulse to submerge his head in the alcohol, and spoke through clenched teeth, "There's nothing wrong with my body."Lucian possessed all the typical reactions and impulses a man should have, but he always seemed to hit a roadblock when taki
Agnes cleared her throat and continued, "I must say, after all these years, it seems highly improbable that anyone would return. But, one can never be entirely certain. Whether they choose to return or not is not our concern.""That residence has a rather unfortunate reputation. It's become renowned as a haunted mansion in Capeton. What kind of work have you undertaken there? Did you stumble into some scam?" Agnes asked in concern.Calista wasn't sure how much Agnes knew about her mother's death, but she decided to take a chance and continued, "Agnes, you know, my mom's passing wasn't just a random accident. Grandpa and I have been digging around for years, yet we haven't encountered any useful leads. Have you got any scoop on whether my mom had any tight buddies or pals?"Agnes returned to arranging flowers and replied, "Your mom was one of those workaholic types. She could hibernate at home for weeks, not bothering to chat with anyone or surf the web. Gossip and internet drama wer
Lucian stopped, a sense of frustration washed over him.He rested his chin on Calista's shoulder and spoke hoarsely, "You don't like it when I kiss you, huh? It makes sense. You're not into me. So why would you like it?"Calista had never seen Lucian in such a drunken state before.While there had been previous bouts of drunkenness, he would usually pass out completely, to the extent that not even an earthquake could wake him.She remained silent, and Lucian followed suit. Yet, the silence was short-lived.Suddenly, Lucian unbuttoned his shirt and said, "We skip the kisses then. How about we cut to the chase?"Even if Calista was slow to catch on, she understood Lucian's indication.She maintained a poker face and replied, "Sure, let's move things to bed. Standing around here feels awkward."Even in his drunken state, Lucian managed to navigate to the bed with surprising precision. He wrapped his arms around Calista, fearing she might run away.When they reached the bedside, L
Lucian wanted to say something but restrained himself. He pursed his lips, and the veins on his forehead bulged. After a while, he finally found a more refined way to express himself."Can you cut the guy some slack and take it easy on him?"He had completely forgotten the lectures he had given to the stuffed toy.Calista continued relentlessly, "Sexual desires are just basic physical needs, and you're telling me to be lenient about someone's shortcomings? Is it too much to ask for a healthy relationship? Also, tell your friend to move on sooner. Don't waste that poor girl's time."Lucian was left speechless at her reply.She added, "You might want to suggest therapy for him. If he's having trouble in the bedroom with his wife, it could be a sign to try something different.""You've read those cheesy novels, haven't you? The idea that men only get aroused by their one true love is a load of nonsense. Maybe he needs to spend more time with women and gain more bedroom experience, a
Calista was nearly as tall as Thomas, with a pair of heels adding an extra 2.5 inches to her stature. She exuded an air of poise and elegance that seemed to command the room."Hey, Mr. Jefferson. If you're so sure about it, why don't you spill the beans and tell us who you think I've supposedly slept with to get to where I am today?"Pretending to stay calm, Thomas asked, "What's your intention?""Very well. I intend to convene them here for a public confrontation with you. Regrettably, I lack influential connections among these higher-ups, so I may need to seek Mr. Beaumont's assistance," she explained.Given their busy schedules and critical responsibilities, getting those high-ranking officials to attend was highly unlikely. However, the mere thought of unsettling Thomas was worth it."We'll find out who can handle the embarrassment. Will it be you, Mr. Jefferson? Or me, the one you believe is only here because of connections?"Calista made a comment that chipped away at Thoma
Calista remained seated, undisturbed, while Yara sprang into action next to the table, forcibly turning someone to face her."Hector, you sneaky guy! Didn't we agree that I'd be the one to ask the question? You threw me under the bus there. Now Calista probably thinks we're in cahoots or something."Hector brushed off Yara's grip, pulled out the chair next to Calista, and sat down."I'm here to go after someone, and being here in person shows I mean business. Yara, you can take off now since you've brought me into the picture. Grab some food next door. My treat."Yara glared at him and retorted, "Why involve me in the first place? Why not ask her directly?""You see, showing up unexpectedly too often can irritate folks. Timing is key. Given that you've already set the stage, it made sense for me to step in," Hector replied."Do you ever wonder why passing love notes through messengers was a thing back in school instead of just asking someone out directly?" he continued."Why?" Y
Cameron tucked her hands into her sleeves, her face unreadable as she watched Mirabelle stagger toward her. "I went through so much trouble to put on this grand finale," she said coolly. "How could I miss the ending?"Mirabelle's eyes were bloodshot, her voice shrill with disbelief. "It really was you, Cameron! You set everything up!" She fumbled for her phone. "I'm calling the police. You framed my fatherâhe's innocent!""Framed?" Cameron let out a cold laugh. "And where exactly do you think the money came from for all those years you lived like a queen overseas?"Mirabelle froze mid-dial. Cameron's words cut deep. She stood there, stunned, then muttered, "CadeâĶ I'll tell Cade everything you did. He'll stop you. I'll call Cade.""Are you sure you want to do that?"Mirabelle lowered her phone and burst out laughing. "I won't call. But what does it matter? You lost. You pulled all the strings, but in the end, I'm still standing. You can't touch me."She lifted her head, her eyes s
Cade turned, frowning in confusion. Mirabelle had just stumbled into the cafÃĐ, unkempt, disheveled, and utterly unlike her usual self. The grace and poise she once wore like armor were gone. Her hair was tangled, her outfit wrinkled, and one of her heels had snapped clean off.But it was clearâshe hadn't come for him. The instant her eyes found his, she froze. Then, almost frantically, she adjusted her clothes and ran trembling fingers through her hair.She walked over, chin lifted, as if her heel wasn't broken, as if she hadn't just staggered in like a ghost of herself."Cade," she said, summoning the haughtiness of an Ackerman heiress. "Are you really willing to throw away everything between our families for Cameron?"She had begged nearly everyone she knew that dayâmen and women who owed her family countless favors. All of them had turned their backs. She finally understood what it meant to be on a sinking ship, swarmed by rats scurrying for safety.Mirabelle knew she should be
Fabian said, "Mr. Ackerman was taken away by the Office of Inspector General this morning. Madam Cameron and the Bark family are reportedly the ones responsible."The Carter Group hadn't broken any laws, nor had they been financially entangled with the Ackermans for over a decade. Still, the long-standing ties between the two families ran deep. If Victor Ackerman had skeletons in his closet, Cade would have a hard time avoiding the fallout.Cade propped his hand against his cheek. "What about my wife?""Madam CameronâĶ" Fabian had to steel himself to answer Cade. "Madam Cameron left the country. She applied for a long-term visa."Even with reporters hounding him, that sentence rang loud and clear in Cade's ears.A long silence stretched before he let out a quiet, bitter laugh.He had never realized how much Cameron had orchestrated behind his back. The Ackermans or the media could trip him up for now, but her betrayal cut deeper. Every move had been calculated.And the most absur
Cade crossed the room as Cameron, already seated, leaned her cheek against her hand, skimming the menu. "Want a drink?" she asked casually.His heart skipped a beat.Cameron's appearance radiated deliberate perfection. From her flawlessly styled hair and expertly applied makeup to her impeccable outfit and carefully chosen accessories, every detail was considered. Even her expensive "Allure" perfume hinted at a desire to captivate.A private dining room meant for couples with only spouses in each other's companyâĶGiven the setup, sharing a drink seemed like an implicit invitation.Cade pressed his lips into a line, trying to ignore the rising curve of a smile. "Sure," he replied, his tone deceptively even. "We'll start with two bottles of Magnolia's Pulpit," Cameron said.Cade choked on his water, coughing as he asked, "Seriously?"Who would start a date with such a strong distilled spirit? With two bottles, no less.Cameron propped up her chin and raised an eyebrow. "Is that
Cameron stared at her screen, where Gale had just sent a single word. "Ready." Her lips curled up involuntarily.Cade noticed the smile. He didn't know who she was messaging, but it irritated him for some reason. After a long pause, he exhaled slowly and asked, "What if the Ackermans refuse to settle?"Cameron didn't bother to answer. She knew Violet and Victor would soon be in hot water, so she hadn't considered the aftermath. However, to Cade, her silence only confirmed his assumptionsâshe was reckless, unprepared, and acting purely on emotion. He clenched his jaw and finally stopped holding his breath. Then, suddenly, he pulled the car over with a sharp twist of the wheel. "Did you think it through before turning yourself in? What if the psych evaluation comes back clean, and the Ackermans insist on pressing charges? What then? You hurt Mirabelle badly. You think you'll have it easy in prison with the way they dote on her?" In contrast to Cade's exasperation, Cameron remaine
With Cade covering Cameron's mouth, there was no chance for her pointed words to offend anyone in the room. His palm was cool to the touch. It was a sensation she disliked. So, she couldn't help but tilt her head.When Cade noticed her movements, he gently stroked her cheek as if he were calming a child who was throwing a tantrum.Victor spent years in a position of authority, giving him an air of unspoken authority. His gaze hardened, and his lips pressed into a firm line as he watched Cade. "Cade, don't jeopardize the long-standing relationship between our families over a woman.""If that's how you see it." Cade glanced at the door. "Aren't you doing the same for a woman?"Victor snorted contemptuously. "How can a cheap girl who was merely adopted be worth anything compared to Mirabelle?""How is my daughter, a Yorksworth, worth any less than yours?" Blaire stood at the doorway as she took in the occupants of the home with her sharp gaze. She had been feeling restless ever sin
Mirabelle frowned. "Excuse me?"As soon as she finished speaking, Cameron walked up to her, grabbed her by her hair, and forcefully bent her over.Cameron held up the guest list Monica had sent her and shoved it in Mirabelle's face. "Call them. Tell them to be there by 3:00 p.m., or elseâĶ"She tightened her grip threateningly. "You can kiss this head of hair goodbye."Mirabelle pressed down on her scalp where it had been pulled, her voice distorted with pain when she spoke."Let go, Cameron! Are you out of your mind?""Didn't I tell you not to involve anyone else in our feud?""Can't take it anymore?"Mirabelle endured the pain of turning her head to flash a disdainful sneer at Cameron."This is just the appetizer. If you go against me, you'll eventually crawl out of Capeton with your tail between your legs. I'll call your business partner right now and pin the catastrophic failure of this event on youâĶ"Seeing Mirabelle's condescending expression brought Cameron back to the
The kiss lifted the dark cloud that hung over Cade's mood over the past few days.The next day, as Fabian brought in documents for him to sign, Cade asked, "When is Cameron's show?"Fabian was taken aback for a split second but quickly replied. Fortunately, he was well-prepared and kept track of Cameron's events for the year in advance."Has the invitation been delivered?"Fabian swallowed, almost wanting to laugh to mock Cade. Given Cade's strained relationship with his wife, Cameron would sooner invite a dog than have him around. However, all Fabian could do was revel in Cade's misery in his mind while keeping a businesslike facade."It was probably already delivered. The front desk brought in a stack of mail yesterday. I haven't sorted it out yet."He had already sorted out the mail this morning. Everything had gone straight to the trash."Clear my schedule for the day. Make reservations at a restaurant for a celebratory dinner.""Yes, sir."On the day of the show, Monica
That was obviously an excuse to get Cade out of the picture. Knowing what Mirabelle had done to Cameron in the past, leaving the two of them alone was out of the question. Besides, it wasn't convenient for him to move the car, so he refused without a second thought."Get the attendantâ"However, Cameron cut him off before he could finish."Ms. Ackerman is a guest. You should fulfill her requests if she has any."Cade cast her a cold glance. "Shut up." Why should he dance to Mirabelle's tune?Cameron stared at him. "Run along."He gritted his teeth as rage crossed his face. After a brief pause, he sneered and turned to leave. As soon as the door shut behind him, Mirabelle's calm expression slipped. "Did you make me come here just to show off how much you two love each other?""You call that love? I think we have different definitions of what 'love' is then. He's nothing more thanâĶ" Cameron's fingers lightly traced the cup's rim as she smirked and said, "A lap dog.""You fu