Lahat ng Kabanata ng Kicking Him to the Curb: Kabanata 681 - Kabanata 690

"Ms. Nicholls, looks like things have been going too smoothly for you lately. It doesn't seem like you've learned much." Zac's tone carried a hint of mockery as he leaned back casually against the soft couch, completely relaxed.He swept his gaze around Aspen's spacious, bright office before finally settling on her."Do you think you're hot stuff now that you've merged the companies, Ms. Nicholls? Outgrown the home market? Foreign companies beneath your notice now?"Zac's tone was light and airy, but clearly provocative. He deliberately mentioned "foreign companies" to test Aspen's attitude toward this supposed collaboration.Aspen set down her pen, leaned forward slightly, and folded her hands on the desk. She looked at Zac with calm eyes."Zac, I think you've got it wrong. I don't look down on any company, whether domestic or foreign."I just don't trust you, Zac Sanders."She called him by his first name instead of the polite "Mr. Sanders" she'd used in front of others, makin

The project team members were buzzing with worry, their morale clearly shaken.Meanwhile, Colin sat in his office, watching the online drama unfold. There was a smug smile creeping across his face."Aspen, let's see how you get out of this one," he muttered to himself.When Aspen learned about the situation, she immediately called a team meeting."Everyone, don't panic. The posts online are obviously someone trying to smear us deliberately. I've already had the PR department monitor public opinion closely and prepare a statement to set the record straight."Aspen kept her tone calm, trying to steady everyone's nerves."But Ms. Nicholls, public opinion is really against us right now. A lot of people online are buying into what the post is saying," one team member said worriedly."I know, but we can't let ourselves fall apart." Aspen's tone was firm. "We need to trust in our abilities and the company's strength."The truth will come out eventually, and innocent people have nothin

"I just contacted him again to assure him that the project won't be affected," Aren walked over to Aspen's side and added."Good, I already called him too." Aspen nodded."Mr. Bennett really trusts us. He said he'll keep supporting the project.""That's a relief." Aren exhaled."But we can't let our guard down. Whoever's behind this definitely won't give up that easily." Aspen's eyes sharpened as she reminded him.The two exchanged glances, and Aren nodded.Three days later, Aspen sat in her office reviewing the documents Riley had just delivered. They were a detailed investigation report on the offshore investment company where Zac worked.The report identified the company as Blackstone Capital, based in the Jackall Islands, with interests spanning venture capital, private equity, and other areas. Everything seemed normal at first glance, but there were red flags buried in the details."Blackstone Capital..." Aspen murmured to herself. "What exactly is this company all about?"

"Something very important?" Zac's voice carried a hint of confusion. "What is it? Can't you just tell me over the phone?""Zac, just listen to me and come home," Gwyneth said firmly. "This is about your future, about both our futures."Zac fell silent for a moment, then finally agreed. "Alright, Gwen. I'm on my way."Gwyneth hung up and stood by the roadside, waiting for Zac to arrive. After meeting up with him, they returned home. She had him sit down before she began.She stood in front of him, took a deep breath, and began to speak, "Zac, I know what you've been up to lately."Her voice was calm but serious as she continued, "You've done a lot of wrong things trying to get revenge for me."Zac froze. He looked at Gwyneth with panic flashing in his eyes. "Gwen, how... how did you find out?"He couldn't believe Gwyneth knew about his plan."Zac, you don't need to hide it from me anymore," Gwyneth said firmly. "I already know everything. Aspen showed me all the evidence."Zac'

Aren and Aspen embraced deeply, feeling each other's heartbeat. In this moment, they could finally let go of all their reservations and face their feelings honestly."Aspen, let's start fresh," Aren whispered in her ear."Yeah." Aspen nodded. "Let's start over."Soft music began playing in the restaurant, adding a touch of sweetness to this romantic moment. Aspen and Aren savored this rare, peaceful time together.In this moment, it felt like they had the whole world."Aspen, once everything is settled, let's get married," Aren said suddenly.Aspen was startled for a moment, then her face lit up with a happy smile. "Okay."The two embraced again, making a promise for life.The next day, when Aspen arrived at the office, Riley told her that Zac's lawyer had dropped by again."Ms. Nicholls, Zac's lawyer wants to see you," Riley said. "He says Zac has something to tell you."Aspen frowned. She didn't know what else Zac could possibly want to say."Let him in," Aspen said.A mo