"Ariana's POV"Shock engulfed my entire body after hearing Ms. Gray from Mr. Connell's mouth. How does he know me? Only this question is revolving in my brain. Is it possible that at some business party we collided? But still, who remembers such a small bump? At least not me, as my ludicrous brain hates this work."Ariana, is your surname Gray? And do you know him?" Luke whispered in my ears. I sweated, closing my eyes, scowling, and turned without answering him."Please take a seat," Mr. Connell said. I could see his expression different from before. It's soft rather than stern, and his voice has concern and affection. Affection? But I have never seen this feeling for myself. I either get sympathy or anger, and concern too, I got, but that too also in the form of pity. So why does Mr. Connell have this expression?I looked at my friends to understand what was happening, but their condition was worse than mine. Their eyes popped out, and I could hear their murmurs, "Is he Mr. Connell?

At that moment, as I waited for Grandpa’s final demand, I knew that no matter the demand, I would accept them. As I have to keep striving to be the leader I aspired to become, and I would never let my past define my future again. This was my chance to rise above my mistakes and prove that I was ready to take on the responsibility and lead the company to a brighter future. Also I needed to show Ryan and his father their true place."But for that, you need to fulfil my condition," Grandpa said after a moment and took a file which was kept on the table. I noticed this earlier too but shrugged my thoughts."Take this file and read it. I clearly mentioned not only my shares but," he halted for a moment then continued, "Also, I am willing to give you an opportunity to enter the hospitality sector."An enticing offer! It was always my ambition to try something different from my predecessors. They started their luck in the technology sector and got immense success, and then I only carried that

Ariana's POVSilence hung between us as we continued walking. I couldn't decipher what was going on in Mr. Connell's mind, but I felt a sense of delight, deciding to put aside the favor issue and stay focused on the present.Although my perspective toward him had shifted slightly, I couldn't say it had changed entirely.Entering the hall, I intended to call Grandpa, but Mr. Connell stopped me, informing me that Grandpa was on his way. His next words surprised me initially but then triggered a reaction in me."Try acting," he suggested. The thought of acting made me retreat back into my guarded state.Before I could respond, Grandpa approached us. I reminded myself not to forget who Mr. Connell was and how dangerous it could be to mess with him, especially considering he knew my secret.I gratefully thanked Grandpa for stepping in, cherishing him like an angel in my life. However, inwardly, I couldn't help but be cautious about the situation. The encounter with Mr. Connell left me with

Part - 17Aiden’s POVTwo days have passed, but there's been no helpful support for me. Most of the shareholders aren't willing to assist, despite many of them being against Ryan or Mr. Miller. To make matters worse, they are looking for someone else to lead the company.But from what I know, there's no one who poses a threat. This situation is all because of my grandfather. He came up with such a ridiculous idea, and it not only pushed away some potential investors who were ready to support me after a deal, but it also seems he's actively working against me, as my sources indicate.It's truly frustrating to have such an obstacle in the form of family. Who would want an enemy that could hinder their path to success? I'll have to find a way to handle these challenges and seek new allies who are willing to stand by my side.Yet, he remained adamant about arranging my marriage with Ms. Gray. I had hoped he would back off after talking to her, but that didn't happen.What puzzles me is how

Ariana's POVMy biggest shock was before me - Mr. Aiden Connell. His hands were in his trouser's pocket, hair slightly scattered, and a sense of drowsiness on his face."Mr. Aiden Connell?" I could hear Erin and Olivia whispering his name, while Luke and Andrew were left speechless. I kept staring at him in wonder.What is he doing here? How did he find me? So many different questions were swirling in my mind."Ms. Gray, will you come with me? We need to clear something with each other, so no misconceptions can remain," Mr. Connell said in his usual grim tone.I didn't know how to respond to him. Everything had been going smoothly with my friends, but suddenly, everything seemed uncertain after seeing Mr. Connell here."Mr. Connell, you're here," Erin said excitedly, poking my elbow. I glanced at Olivia and poked her elbow, trying to snap her out of her admiration for him. Her fangirl feelings were surfacing again. I should have discussed all of this with Luke; maybe he would have had