Lia’s POV We board the jet to Japan. Tomorrow is the final signing of the merger—one closer step to Luc’s dreams. My heart elates at this thought. James and Patrick are accompanying us along with Scarlet, Regina, Mitch, and, unfortunately, Cindy. I need to endure her stare for another 12 hours. I let an involuntary sigh at this thought. Luc raises an eyebrow at my reaction. I blush, shaking my head. We have settled inside the seats. There is a big living lounge and for everyone to settle down. The chairs are comfy enough for a small nap. The crew is available in the kitchen cabinet in case of any need for refreshments and food. James and Patrick are seated next to us. Luc is involved in his laptop. I start browsing the documents to do a final check.

Lia’s POV I feel heavy over my head and try to shift in my sleep. I am stiff like I am tied up. I pry open my eyes, wondering what is happening. My eyes slowly get used to the light and find myself in an unfamiliar room. I try to rub my eyes but cannot lift my hands. I look down to see my hands tied up in the armrest. My neck is stiff and pain at the side. Possibly my head is at the wrong angle. But Where am I? Slowly memories flood back. Someone hit Patrick on the head, and I got sprayed. Panic surges through me, and I try my best to keep calm to assess the situation. Who did this? Why do they want me? I hear footsteps nearing and look up to see Diaz walking inside. “You?” I ask in surprise.

Luc’s POV I sit stoically in the hospital chair. The surgeons are operating for Lia right now. I could see James talking to the cops. Dad has gone to complete the formalities in the reception. Mom is sitting next to me, holding my hand. I am observing everything but detached from everything at the same. My eyes often drift to the doors of the operation theatre. I could not forget the way Lia fell with the gushing of blood. My heart will be scarred with that forever. I have failed to save Lia and failed my promises to her. Mom never says a word but sits next to me. That is all I want now. She understands that I cannot talk or listen to anything but need someone for me. How have I got blessed with such understanding parents? Why have I thought that they will blame me for Jake’s death? I

Lia’s POV I laugh seeing Luc’s discomfort on the way the females are falling on him. It is again the annual ball for the foster children. I could not believe it is a year since the last ball. Time is flying like anything. After the disastrous incident, Diaz, her mom, and Mitchel were arrested by cops. Poor Diaz killed herself in prison. Bella could not bear the shock of her daughter’s death and became mentally depressed. She is currently in the psychiatric division of state prison. Mitchel is still behind bars and has six more years to serve. Even though Hal was also behind the conspiracy, having Mary and kids in mind, Luc did not press charges against him. But Luc cut ties with him, and Hal is no more in the media industry. Luc is still in the media industry but more on production. He is taking up only selected roles once in a while. James is his manager, associate, and bodyguard. As for the Alastair Corporation, Luc is the Chairman. I am the Vice-Chairman having the complete aut