Chapter 1: "Where Are You?""Master Adrian, everything has been arranged! We can sign the contract with your wife's company tomorrow. She will then become the new star of the city's business world!"

A sycophantic voice came from the other end of the phone. Adrian replied nonchalantly, "Well done. The Cross family's performance has been very satisfactory to me."

As he spoke, he casually flipped the steak in the pan.

The person on the other end, flattered, respectfully replied, "It is our honor to serve the sole heir of the West family..."

Adrian, uninterested in further compliments, offered a few perfunctory words and hung up. He then plated the steak.

Today was his and his wife Vanessa's wedding anniversary, and it was also the day he planned to tell her about his true identity. A smile involuntarily graced his lips at the thought.

He glanced at his watch and frowned. It had been two hours past the time he and Vanessa had agreed upon, yet she still hadn't returned home.

The steak had been reheated after going cold and no longer looked appetizing. Adrian picked up his phone and dialed his wife's number for the ninth time. Worried that she might be in danger, he decided he would go out to find her if she didn't answer this time.

Unfortunately, a busy signal met his ears, and unease filled his heart. He grabbed his jacket, ready to leave. Just then, the front door clicked open.

Adrian hurried over to see his wife stumbling in. He let out a long sigh of relief.

"Vanessa? You had me worried sick. I called you nine times... What happened?" he asked with concern, walking towards her.

Vanessa looked up, the smell of alcohol wafting from her. Adrian frowned, "You've been drinking?"

"Yes. Why are you still up? Is our daughter asleep?" Vanessa said coldly, her brow furrowed as she looked at him.

Adrian, looking at Vanessa, was somewhat displeased. "Did you forget that today is our wedding anniversary, and that I had something important to tell you?"

Vanessa then remembered, but she said dismissively, "What could be so important? Besides cooking and taking care of our daughter at home all day, you don't do anything else of substance. Are you trying to ask me for money?"

With a cold tone, she walked to the dining table and sat down, commanding, "Pour me a glass of water."

Adrian swallowed the sting. “It’s our anniversary, babe. I called you. Nine times.”

She rolled her eyes, kicking off her heels. One skidded under the coffee table. “Yeah, well, I was busy. Company’s going public tomorrow, or did you forget? Some of us have actual work to do.” Her words slurred impatiently.

Adrian studied her carefully. His wife was drunk. She couldn’t even walk properly. His jaw tightened. He gestured to the table, the food now entirely cold, the candles almost completely burnt out. “Aria was um… waiting for you until 9pm. She wanted to join us for our anniversary before bed.”

Vanessa snorted, staggering toward the kitchen, drunk. “Aria’s fine. She’s always fine. You’re the one making a big deal outta nothing.” She grabbed a glass from the counter, filled it with tap water, and drank like she hadn’t tasted liquid in days. “God, why’re you always hovering? It’s suffocating. Do you know what I had to deal with at the baquet today?”

Adrian was angry by his wife’s excuses. There was no hint of sory in her eyes, not even for disappointing their daughter. He took a slow, deliberaate breath, controlling his anger. He’d seen this coming, hadn’t he?

“But Vanessa, the Cross family’s handling everything, right? They’ll make sure the listing goes smooth. This is an important night for us.”

Vanessa froze, the glass halfway to her lips as she turned back to him in shock. “How the hell do you know about the Cross family?”

Adrian watched Vanessa quietly and said in a low voice, "This is related to what I was going to tell you tonight..."

"Enough, enough. I get angry just looking at you..." Vanessa waved her hand impatiently, completely unconcerned with how Adrian knew the Cross family was helping her.

"I must have been blind to marry a man like you. You're completely useless," Vanessa complained. "If it weren't for Bobby's help, how would I have gotten assistance from the Cross family? You're nothing compared to him. If it weren't for the accident of having Aria..."

Adrian's face was devoid of expression. He knew Vanessa's attitude towards him had drastically changed at a certain point. It was after she met that man named Bobby.

"You missed our wedding anniversary to go drinking with that Bobby?" Adrian asked softly.

"Yes, so what? Bobby helped me so much, of course I have to thank him! If it weren't for him..." Vanessa was defiant, feeling not a shred of guilt.

Vanessa seemed extremely irritated by Adrian’s questioning, and the stifling heat in the room only made her more uncomfortable. She tugged at her collar, trying to get a breath of fresh air.

However, that simple motion revealed the hickey on her neck.

Adrian was struck as if by lightning. He clenched his jaw, suppressing the fury in his chest as he demanded,

“So… that mark was left by Bobby as well?”

"Wh-what... impossible, I specifically told him not to leave any marks..." Vanessa became flustered, quickly covering her neck with her hand.

"So… you cheated?" A sharp pain shot through Adrian's heart, and his whole body trembled. He had suspected it, but he never thought Vanessa would admit her relationship with Bobby so readily in her muddled state.

"I...OK, you're right, I did cheat. But are you completely blameless?" Vanessa said mockingly, dropping all pretense now that her lie was exposed.

If you hadn’t gotten me pregnant, I’d be somewhere else. Someone else. Not stuck with you and your pathetic little dinners.” She gestured at the table, her bracelet catching the candlelight. “This food? It’s disgusting. You’re disgusting. It smells like shit, I won’t even be able to touch that crap.”

“Don’t you get it, Adrian? I am being laughed at at work. All of my subordinates have their husbands buying them fucking sportscars, diamond necklaces. And I pull up there everyday with nothing but your broke-ass surname staining mine. I am ashamed, okay? I am ashamed and I am tired of this… whatever we call it. You’re embarrassing to me, to my public image.”

The words hung there, jagged, final. It felt like Vanessa did not even give a single thought to her words before she laid them. Adrian had spent five long years building her up secretly, propping her dreams with his secret empire. He had stepped back, played the nobody, to keep her and Aria safe. And this was what he got?

“Vanessa,” he finally spoke, his voice low. “I want a divorce.”

Chapter 2: Ding Dong Her laugh was sharp, cutting. “A divorce? You? Are you fucking nuts?” She stepped closer, swaying slightly. Her eyes blazed. “You don’t get to walk away, Adrian. You and Aria — you’re my anchors, dragging me down. You think you can just leave? You’re nothing without me. If there’s anyone to initiate the divorce, it should be me, not you!”

Adrian didn’t answer. He just shook his head, the disappointment settling like ash in his throat. Finally, he’d seen her true colors —he actually had for a while now— but hearing it, feeling it, was different. He turned, walking toward the guest room.

Behind him, a plate crashed to the floor, then another, and another. Vanessa in her rage, began smashing the dishes, screaming, turning the kitchen into a pile of mess.

Adrian didn’t look back. Aria was asleep upstairs, her tiny heart counting on him. And tomorrow, the Cross family would remind Vanessa exactly who she’d just thrown away.

Vanessa stood in the wreckage of the dining room, shards of porcelain scattered across the floor. The table was a battlefield — smashed plates, spilled Merlot wine, lamb stew lay in greasy chunks across the carpet. A fork was stuck, improbably, in the curtain.

All the works of her hands.

Her head throbbed, the whiskey haze slowly fading into a dull ache. She didn’t care. Adrian’s words; ‘I want a divorce’burned hotter than the liquor ever could.

She pressed both hands into the edge of the table — or what was left of it — and tried to steady herself. Who the hell did he think he was, walking away fromher? She grabbed her phone, her fingers shaking, and she dialed Lisa’s number.

“Hey V, it’s one in the morning,” Lisa’s voice crackled, groggy but sharp. “What’s up?”

“He’s done, Lisa. Adrian. He wants a divorce.” Vanessa’s voice broke, not from sadness but fury. She paced the living room, stepping over a broken candle. “Can you believe this guy? After everything I’ve built, he thinks he can just… leave?”

Lisa was a professional divorce lawyer and friend of Vanessa’s. She had always despised Adrian. Her laugh was cold, like ice clinking in a glass. “Oh, honey, that’s the best news I’ve heard all week. He’s finally crawling out of your life, why do you sound so upset? This is a good thing. But you do know he’s after your money, right? Guys like him always are.”

Vanessa leaned against the wall, the paint cool on her temple. She hadn’t thought of it like that, but now that Lisa said it… yeah. Adrian would want his slice. Especially with tomorrow’s deal. The Cross family signing meant her company’s value would shoot through the roof. The thought of him touching a cent of that made her want to put her fist through another plate angrily.

“No way. He’s not getting a dime. I’ve worked too hard for this. Over my dead body, Lisa. I am not fucking allowing that.”

“Oh dear, don’t worry, V,” Lisa reassured, her tone slick with confidence. “I’m the best divorce lawyer in this city. I’ll make sure he walks away with nothing but his pathetic apron. You focus on that Cross deal and make sure you are ready for your big day tomorrow, okay? I’ll handle the rest.”

Vanessa nodded, though Lisa couldn’t see it. “Make it quick. I want him gone.” She hung up, her eyes darting to the photo on the mantle — her, Adrian, Aria. She quickly turned away, her chest tight. She wasn’t the bad guy here. She was the one building something, while Adrian played house-husband. She was the man and he was the… nany? Househelp? Maybe both.

Upstairs, Adrian slipped into Aria’s room, the glow of her nightlight casting little stars across the ceiling. Her small form was curled under the blanket, but her eyes were open, wide and wet. “Daddy?” she whispered, her feeble voice trembling. “I heard Mommy yelling. And… and.. stuff breaking. Mommy said she regrets marrying you.”

Adrian’s heart cracked as he heard his pretty little baby say those words. He knelt by her bed, brushing a strand of hair from her face. “I’m so sorry, pumpkin. I didn’t mean for you to hear all of that.”

Aria sat up, clutching her stuffed bunny. “Mommy doesn’t love me, does she? She’s always gone, and she is mean to me. But you’re here. You’re always here.” Her voice was small but fierce, and it hit Adrian like a freight train.

He pulled her into a hug, her tiny frame warm against his chest. “I love you, Aria. I always will, and I will always be here for you. No matter what. Nothing else matters, okay?” His voice was steady, but inside, he was breaking. Vanessa’s words echoed —you’re my anchors, dragging me down— but Aria’s love was the only thing keeping him grounded.

Once Aria’s breathing slowed, her eyes fluttering shut, Adrian stepped into the hall. He pulled out his phone, hesitating only a second before dialing. The line picked up instantly.

“Young master!” The voiceremained respectful. Although John Cross hadn’t expected Adrian to call again so late at night, he was always on standby.

If anyone else were to witness this, they would surely be shocked beyond belief—after all, he was the head of the Cross family, a dominant figure in the city. He was the kind of man who, with just a casual favor, could make someone like Vanessa feel endlessly grateful!

“Tell me what you need.”

Adrian’s voice was low, firm. “A place to stay. For me and my daughter.”

John’s breath hitched, like he was holding back tears. “Anything, young master. Anything. The family will be ready. Tomorrow, we welcome you home.”

***************

Meanwhile, back in his mansion, John Cross stood in the grand hall of the Cross estate, his hands trembling as he hung up the phone. The young master — Adrian West — had decided to show up.

Was he doing well?

John’s chest swelled, his old eyes stinging with tears. He shuffled to the ancient brass bell mounted on the wall, its surface polished by decades of reverence. He gripped the rope, took a breath, and yanked hard.

Ding Dong!

The bell’s clang tore through the mansion like a hammer on steel. It rang twice, maybe three times — hard enough to make the chandeliers sway and the glass in the tall windows vibrate.

Doors banged open along the hall. People began to spill out in half-dressed confusion — a cook in an apron with flour on her hands, one of the gardeners still in muddy boots, a pair of the younger cousins blinking like they’d been dragged out of sleep. Advisors shuffled in too, murmuring to each other.

Nobody could remember the last time that bell had been rung. Most news these days came by text or through John’s personal assistant.

Ethan pushed his way forward, phone still lit in his hand, tie hanging loose around his neck. “Grandfather? What’s going on? It’s…” he glanced at the phone, “...past midnight.”

John stood at the far end of the corridor, leaning on his cane like he’d been waiting for them all to gather. His face gave away nothing, but when he spoke, his voice carried right to the back.

“An important person,” he said, slow and deliberate, “is coming home. Tomorrow, we go to him. All of us. To welcome him.”

The words rolled through the group like a spark through dry leaves. Whispers broke out, unsure of who John was referring to.

“Um.. Grandfather, who is this'Important person'? This is the first time you speak of him. Is he some sort of…”

“He is the most important man in this family. His family and the Cross’ have a long-lasting, unseverable relationship.” John Cross cut him. “More details will be disclosed soon. I will make a personal introduction when you all meet him. Tomorrow, we welcome him.” John ended.

Ethan frowned. “Tomorrow? But…” He hesitated, glancing at one of the uncles. “The contract with Vanessa Lang… it’s set to be signed. It’s worth millions. Besides, how do we know that this… ‘important’ man would be worth attending to over Vanessa Lang?”

Almost instantly, John’s eyes darkened, his jaw tightening like a vice. “Do you hear yourself, child? Millions?” he spat, the word venom. “Vanessa Lang is nothing. An insignificant speck of dust. He is everything. I value family more than anything. Therefore, tonight, anyone who chooses her contract over him…” He paused, scanning the room, his gaze cutting through every soul. “….is no longer a Cross. You’re out. Exiled. Done!”

The hall went silent, the weight of his words sinking in. Ethan swallowed, his phone slipping back into his pocket.

Watching John’s departing figure, some people frowned and whispered, “Has he perhaps grown senile…?”

*******

Morning came too fast, the sun slicing through the curtains. Vanessa was already up, her heels clicking as she grabbed her briefcase. She didn’t take care of the mess in the dining room, didn’t even glance at Adrian.

“I’m heading out,” she said, her voice clipped, backing him. “It’s my big day. Cross family contract. Lisa’s coming over to deal with… you know.”

Adrian said nothing; he just watched her go. The door slammed, and the house felt emptier than ever. Adrian had to clean up her mess. Not because he needed to, or because he was having an undesirable guest. He only did it to keep his little girl safe from harm and injury.

Lisa arrived an hour later, her designer suit as sharp as her smirk. She held a manila folder like a weapon, tossing it onto the coffee table.

“Well, well, well, if it isn’t Adrian. Trying to cash out on Vanessa’s success, huh? Not on my watch.” She leaned forward, her eyes glinting. “I’ve got a divorce agreement that’ll leave you with nothing, not a single penny. Sign it, and maybe you’ll keep some dignity.”

Adrian sat on the couch, his hands folded, calm as stone –cold stone. Then, he turned to Lisa, looking her dead in the eye. “I don’t want her money, Lisa. All I want is custody of Aria, my daughter.”

Lisa was shocked. She blinked, caught off guard. Then she laughed, a short, mocking bark. “Custody? Custody? You? A house husband with no job, no prospects?” She leaned back, smirking like she’d just won the lottery. This was easier than she had expected. She slid the divorce papers closer, the pen glinting under the morning light.

“Well, great! Sign it. Let’s make this quick.”

Adrian’s eyes didn’t waver. He grabbed the pen, his grip steady, and scrawled his name — Adrian West, no hint of the man owned the world.

“Done,” he said, voice like ice, pushing the papers back.

Lisa snatched them, her laugh sharp and mocking. “Oh, I never knew you had such good handwriting.” Then she turned to him. “Tell me, Adrian. You have no money, no job, no single penny in your leaking pocket. How the fuck are you gonna afford that kid’s shoes, let alone her future? Huh? Tell me, loser!”

“Answer me, thief. I’m waiting!”

Chapter 3: The Line You Don't Cross Adrian stood in the living room, the divorce papers still warm from his signature. Lisa’s question still hung in the air; “You have no money, no job, no single penny in your leaking pocket. How the fuck are you gonna afford that kid’s shoes, let alone her future? Huh? Tell me, loser!”

Clearly, she was not asking because she cared. This was just mockery.

“That’s not your concern, Lisa,” he replied, voice low, like a storm brewing far off.

Lisa leaned forward, her smirk sharp as a blade. “Oh, please, Adrian. You’re a nobody. A broke-ass nobody. You think you can play daddy without Vanessa’s cash? Well, good luck with that. You’ll only come back later to beg for money for feeding. The streets ain’t funny.” She tossed her hair, her designer earrings glinting like they were laughing too.

Before Adrian could respond, a small voice piped up from the hallway. “You’re a bad woman, Lisa!” Aria stood there, barefoot in her pajamas, clutching her stuffed bunny. Her eyes were wide, brimming with tears, but her chin jutted out, defiant. “Daddy’s not a loser!”

Lisa’s face twisted, her laugh turning venomous. “Oh, look at this. The little brat speaks.” She stepped closer, towering over Aria. “Listen to me, you’re a kid nobody wants, you know that? Not even your own mommy cares about you. Nobody like you and your daddy, and you, little one, are just an arrogant little bitch like your annoying daddy!”

Aria’s face crumpled, tears spilling down her cheeks. Lisa’s words hurt her deeply. She hugged her bunny tighter, a sob breaking free. This made Adrian’s blood roar in his veins, his calm shattering like the plates Vanessa smashed last night. He stepped between Lisa and Aria, his voice dropping to a dangerous whisper.

“Lisa, apologize to her. NOW. Don't make me ask twice.”

Lisa scoffed, crossing her arms. “Apologize? To that littlebastard? Why should I? Her own mother doesn’t even love her.” She sneered, her words dripping with cruelty. “Face it, Adrian, you’re both dead weight and you’re the ones drawing Vanessa backwards.”

The air snapped taut, like a wire about to break. Aria cried even louder, her tears now soaking up her bunny. It was loud, but the pain behind her voice was deep, silent yet shattering. Adrian looked at the tears on his little girl’s face. That was it. He’d had enough of this nonsense. His hand moved before he could think,

Slap!

A sharp crack echoing as his palm met Lisa’s cheek. She stumbled back, clutching her face, her eyes wide with shock. “You can mock me all you want,” Adrian said, his voice cold as ice, “but you don’tever… EVER…talk about my daughter like that. Cross that line again, Lisa, and you’re done. You’d regret the day my name got registered into your sloth brain.”

Lisa’s mouth opened, then closed, her face flushing red. “You… you hit me!” she shrieked, her voice shrill enough to rattle the windows. “You’re just a poor, pathetic nobody! Howdareyou touch me?” She fumbled for her phone, probably to call Vanessa or the cops, her hands shaking with rage.

Just before she could dial, a low rumbling sound filled the air — engines, deep and powerful, rolling up outside. Lisa froze, her eyes darting to the window. Adrian didn’t move, but a faint smirk tugged at his lips. He knew that sound. Lisa didn’t.

She stormed to the window, yanking the curtains back. Her jaw dropped. A convoy of luxury cars — sleek, super expensive black Rolls-Royces, polished Bentleys, a gleaming Maybach — lined the street, their chrome catching the morning sun like a row of diamonds.

Not one car, not two, not even three, but four luxurious cars.

Men in tailored suits stood by the doors, their postures rigid, waiting. Lisa’s eyes widened, her smirk returning, smugger than ever. “See this, Adrian?” she said, turning to him, her palm still on her face. “This is Vanessa’s life now. Power. Money. You’ll never touch this world.” Vanessa was so excited and felt like she was on top of the world.

Adrian, however, didn’t answer, he just watched her, his sly smile growing colder.

The front door soon opened, and a man stepped in — tall, handsome, well-built man, his suit cut so sharp it could draw blood. His dark hair was slicked back, not a strand daring to flick out. The watch he wore glinted with understated wealth. Lisa’s breath caught, her eyes practically sparkling. “Oh, my God,” she muttered, smoothing her hair. “That’s gotta be one of Vanessa’s suitors. Look at him.Thisis what she deserves, Adrian. Not you. Do you now understand? Can you now see that you and Vanessa are not on the same level?”

The man, however, didn’t even glance at Lisa. He crossed the room in long, purposeful strides, stopping in front of Adrian. Then, to Lisa’s shock, he dropped to one knee, bowing his head. “Mr. West,” he said, voice reverent, “I am Marcus, butler of the Cross family. It is an honor to serve you.”

Chapter 4: Masks And Motives Lisa stood rooted in Vanessa’s living room, her cheek still burning from Adrian’s slap, her mind reeling from what she’d just seen. She was shocked, frozen, flabbergasted and evey other synonym in between. It was now that the slap stung even more.

That butler —Marcus. The guy that looked like a god— had dropped to his knee, calling Adrian “Mr.West” like he was royalty. What?!

Adrian noticed her countenance and he just shot her a cold glance. Her eyes locked on Adrian, who held Aria’s tiny hand, his face carved from ice. They both walked up to her and Adrian sope his final words;

“If I ever hear you insult my daughter again, Lisa,” he said, his voice low and sharp a blade wrapped in velvet, “You will pay. And you won’t like the price. Sell your entire life career and you still won’t be able to afford it.”

Lisa’s mouth opened, but her throat seized up, fear drowning her smugness. Her legs wobbled like they’d forgotten how to stand. She could only watch in shock and horror. What the heck just happened before her eyes? Was this… real?

Oh but it was. She watched as Adrian held Aria’s hand, leading her to the door. The little girl clutched her stuffed bunny, its fur still damp from her tears, but her eyes now sparked with awe at the cars outside. The little girl had never such cars before.

Marcus held open the door of a Bentley. Adrian slid in with Aria, not sparing Lisa a glance. The convoy engines roared to life, and soon, they peeled out, leaving a trail of dust and Lisa’s shattered ego.

She snapped out of it, her shock curdling into rage.

“No. Fucking No! No way,” she muttered, her voice trembling as she fumbled for her phone. “No damn way that loser has that kind of pull.” It had to be a con. She was convinced that Adrian — house husband, nobody Adrian — must’ve swiped Vanessa’s cash, hired actors, rented those cars to pull off some pathetic stage drama. Her fingers shook as she dialed Vanessa, her cheek still throbbing.

“V, you’re not gonna believe this,” she hissed when Vanessa picked up. “Adrianhitme. He… he slapped me right across the face!”

Vanessa’s voice exploded through the line, sharp as a whip. “Hewhat? Why the hell would he hit you, Lisa?”

Lisa hesitated, her mind flashing to her own cruelty. She called Aria a “bastard,” a “kid nobody wants.” She couldn’t admit that, not to Vanessa. And so she lied. “He… he was pissed about the divorce,” she lied, smoothing her voice like cream over a blade. “He refused to sign at first. I had to push him, you know, to protect your money at all costs. He lost it, V. Went full psycho and started acting like a mad man.”

Vanessa’s breath hissed, loud enough to make a waiter flinch across the lobby. “That son of a bitch. So the divorce talk was just a game? He’s after my company, isn’t he? My deal with the Cross family?” Her voice climbed, drawing stares from a group of executives sipping espresso.

“I’m at the E Hotel right now, you know, the most luxurious Hotel in the city. And I am waiting for the Cross Family to arrive and sign. I’ll call Adrian and make him apologize for touching you.”

“Do it,” Lisa said, her smirk creeping back despite the sting on her cheek. “Put him in his place.” She hung up, her eyes darting to the living the photo of Vanessa, Adrian, and Aria on the mantle, now tilted like it was ashamed. Lisa straightened her suit, her confidence returning. Adrian was a fraud.

He had to be.

*****************

Meanwhile, in the Bentley’s plush interior, Adrian leaned back, the Piñatex leather creaking under his weight. Aria curled against him, her bunny on her lap. She was confused, really, wondering why she was in a car she only saw on YouTube.

John Cross sat across from them, his weathered face streaked with tears, his cane resting against his knee. “Young... ”

But Adrian interrupted him. "Call me Adrian, John."

"Alright, Adrian...." He said, voice thick with emotion, “I never thought I’d live to see this day. Years of phone calls, waiting for you… you’re home. I finally get to see you again in person.”

Adrian’s jaw softened, but his eyes stayed sharp, like a man who’d seen too much to fully relax. “You’ve done well, John. The Cross family’s untouchable now. You make me proud.”

John chuckled, wiping his eyes with a silk handkerchief. “Because of you, young...Adrian. I used to sleep in a cot smaller than this car. Your grandfather saw potential in me, you… gave me purpose. Now we’re kings of this city.”

He gestured to a young woman beside him who had been quiet all through, her auburn hair pinned in an elegant twist. She was a damsel. “This is my granddaughter, Helen. She had been away for a while now, you know… studying, top schools abroad. She is sharper than most men in this town, I tell ya’.” John Cross chuckled.

"Do you remember her? When you were young, you met her in Cross family."

John was a wise old man. Upon hearing that Adrian had divorced his wife, he quickly called Helen back, urging her to accompany him to welcome the Young Master. He knew that if she could become his wife, the Cross Family would rise to prominence.

But before that, he should keep his indentity as secret.

Helen didn't know this, but she remembered the time when she met Adrian when she was young. Her cheeks flushed, her eyes flicking to Adrian, then down to her hands. “It’s an honor, Mr. West,” she said, voice soft but measured, like she’d rehearsed it.

Adrian nodded politely. He was not aware of John’s intentions. John beamed, his cane tapping the floor with excitement. “We have prepared the most sumptuous banquet feast at the most luxurious hotel in the city, young master. Only the best for your return. The whole family’s there, waiting to honor you. Trust me, you are gonna love it.”

Adrian shook his head, "Please tell them to leave, John. Don’t make a big scene. I’ll be visiting your family tomorrow.”

John instantly broke out in a cold sweat.

“Adrian, that crisis… it’s still not over? No wonder you can’t reveal yourself… I was too careless!”

As he spoke, he grabbed the phone and immediately issued an order.

“All members waiting at Hotel E may withdraw. Everyone is to return to the family and stand by!”

Aria, oblivious to the subtext, tugged Adrian’s sleeve. “Daddy, is there gonna be cake at the feast? A big one?”

Adrian ruffled her hair, a faint smile breaking through. “The biggest, kiddo. At the fanciest hotel in town.”

The car kept moving, the city’s pulse vibrating through the windows. But Adrian’s phone buzzed, slicing through the warmth like a knife. It was Vanessa calling.

Her name flashed on the screen, bold and accusing. He stared at it, his jaw tightening. They hadn’t spoke since the previous night. Memories of last night’s smashed plates and her whiskey-soaked rage flooded back. He answered, flatly. “What do you want?”

Vanessa’s voice erupted, loud enough to make Aria flinch. “What the hell is wrong with you, Adrian? Hitting Lisa? You’re a violent, greedy bastard! You better apologize to her right now, or I swear I’ll never forgive you!”

Adrian’s grip on the phone tightened, his knuckles whitening in fury, but his voice stayed cold as a winter night. “I hit her, yes. She deserved it. Call the cops if you want, Vanessa. I’m done talking to you.” He hung up abruptly, giving her no time to shoot back.

Chapter 5: The Loyalty Of A Man John Cross sat stiff in the Bentley, his hands tight on his cane, watching Adrian’s face harden after hanging up on Vanessa. He listened in on their conversation and heard every word. John’s jaw clenched, his loyalty burning hot. He was extrememly pissed. “Young master,” he said, voice rough, “That woman is trouble. The Coorporation deal with Vanessa’s company… are we still pushing through with it?”

Adrian leaned back, Aria already fast asleep against his arm, her stuffed bunny pressed to her chest. His eyes were hard, like he was staring through the car’s tinted windows into something far off.“I only help my wife’s company, John. As Dom would say; ‘Family only’.”

John nodded slowly, a flicker of respect in his eyes. The response was clear as day.

“Got it.” He replied.

Adrian was only willing to help his wife, not his ex wife. Those were two different things entirely. He needed no further explanation. His reply was firm, but inside, he was already planning, calculating. Vanessa’s world, built on Adrian’s hidden favors, was about to crash. And he was going to make sure of that. Who dares speaks to Young Master that way?!

Finally, the cars pulled up to the E Hotel, its tall glass doors reflecting the morning sun. The place screamed money — smart polished glass facade, gold handles, gold plating, gold everything. Light poured out like it was bragging. John glanced at Helen, his beautiful granddaughter. Her face was soft but nervous as she looked at Adrian.

At this, John saw his chance to push them closer, the golden moment to make sure they both bond. “Um… Young Master, I um… I need to properly handle the Cooperation issue with Vanessa’s Company,” he said, gruff, waving a hand to his PA and other executives. “You, you, all of you, come with me.” And then turning to Helen, “Helen, you and Adrian go in first. We will catch up later.” her grandfather winked at her before turning to leave. Adrian did not notice. He just spent some time appreciating the beauty of Architecture.

Helen’s face went pink, but she nodded. “Yes, Grandfather.” Adrian didn’t argue, he just nodded in agreement. John and the others drove off, their engines fading, leaving Adrian and Helen together, alone at the hotel’s entrance.

They walked in.

However, as soon as they entered the lobby, they saw Vanessa anxiously waiting in the lobby, standing near a roped-off area, still on the black dress she had on that morining. Vanessa was not alone. A somewhat chubby man in a suit accompanied her, a flashy wrist watch glinting on his wrist. Adrian furrowed his brows. He wanted to pretend to not know this woman. She was trouble. Everything about her spelled ‘problem’.

He tried to take another route, but it was too late. Vanessa spotted them.“Adrian? What the hell are you doing here?”

Her eyes burned holes into Adrian, her heels clicking as she closed the distance between them. “You! What the fuck is your problem, Adrian, huh? Why can’t you just let me be? Can’t you just stay away from me? You keep following me everywhere I go. I’m pretty sure you are looking for a way to steal my money by all means.” she yelled, loud enough to make a couple nearby turn their heads. “How else do you end up in a hotel like this?”

“Thief!” she accused loudly. “Everybody hold your stuff tight. There is a thief in the building.”

Two security guards by the doors perked up, one reaching for his walkie-talkie, watching close. The other ensuring that the accused was under strict watch, so he does not resort to stealing people’s stuff as he was being of accused of.

Adrian, however, shook his head in utter disappointment. Even in public? Just how much did she hate him? Once upon a time, she the shy girl who barely spoke in public. She’d hide behind him when someone confronted her and he would be her shield. But now, she was the spear, darting hurtful words at him, not caring how deep each spear dug.

“I’m here for a meal, Vanessa. The Cross family invited me.” he simply replied, indifferently.

But his words were met with laughter. Vanessa laughed out loud, harsh and bitter, her purse swinging like she might throw it. “Do you even hear yourself? The Cross family? You? Get real, Adrian. Wake up! You’re pathetic. Ughh!”

At this time, the chubby guy smirked, stepping up, his breath reeking of coffee and nonsense. “This your useless ex-husband, V?” he asked, voice thick with a grin. “Your house-husband?” He looked Adrian from head to toe and then at Helen, who stood quiet, her lips tight. As much as Helen was enjoying the show, she was extremely dissapointed and angry at Vanessa.

Vanessa nodded, her sneer cutting deep. “That’s him, Bobby. A nobody who keeps following me everywhere I go.”

Bobby Jackson puffed up, adjusting his tie like he was a main actor on stage. He cleared his throat. “The name’s Bobby Jackson, billionaire, as you can see,” he said, sticking out a sweaty hand Adrian ignored. “See, I’m very tight with the Cross family. Real tight. My family and their family dine from the same table.” He waved his iPhone 14, smirking. “One call, and I’ll prove you’re full of smelly lies, pal. Nobody invites a loser like you anywhere.”

Onlookers were getting really invested in the movie unfolding before their very eyes. It was an interesting show, but it was also a serious and threatening situation. Why, they asked— would a man keep following his ex-wife to steal her money?

“I knew it. Men are scum. I hate them.” one young Tiktoker lady voiced.

“Yeah. They never know when to quit. Look at that guy, has he no shame?” another added, referring to Adrian. “Broke guys are the worst.”

Vanessa’s chin lifted, her voice loud for the crowd. Everyone began to whisper. Some in support of Adrian for being calm and stoic through the whole ordeal, but majority supporting Vanessa. They taged her as a Femininst, a Slay Queen who took no nonsense from entitled men like Adrian.

Seeing that everyone was on her side, her fuel increased. Vanessa continued, “Bobby’s why I got the Cross family deal. He worked it out for me, easy peasy,” she said, soaking up the murmurs of approval around her. “He’s got connections, unlike you, broke-ass.”

Before Adrian could answer, a laugh broke through, soft but sharp. Helen, standing beside him, pressed a hand to her mouth, her eyes glinting like she knew a secret. Because really, she did. She knew that the Cross Family were only langating with Vanessa Lang’s company for Adrian’s sake. Take Adrian out of the equation and you have absolute zero as the final answer. Put Bobby in the equation and you have minus 100 as the result.

Helen’s laughter stopped Vanessa cold, her head whipping around. “What’s so damn funny?” she snapped, stepping closer, her voice climbing. “And who the fuck are you?”

Helen’s smile didn’t fade, but she stayed quiet, her calmness making Vanessa’s anger look small, making her look like a fool. Bobby’s smirk died. The crowd’s whispers grew, heads craning to watch the next scene and the new character, Helen.

Vanessa’s eyes flicked from Helen to Adrian, her face twisting. “Oh, oh, oh…. I see it now,” she hissed, her voice shaking. “You’ve been cheating, haven’t you, Adrian? How long you been sneaking around with her? Huh?”

“Answer me now! How long have you been cheating on me with this woman?!”

Chapter 6: Lies And Looks Vanessa’s accusation was a serious one. Her face was red, her eyes wild, like she’d caught him red-handed. Adrian was amused, really. What kind of woman had she turned out to be?

He smirked, a cold smirk forming at the corner of his lips. “Cheating? Really? That’s um.. rich, Vanessa. You and Bobby here are the ones cozying up. You are the one cheating with him. Me and Helen? We literally just met today.”

Vanessa’s jaw dropped, her purse nearly slipping from her grip. Cheating was her worst fear, the label she’d kill to avoid. “You lying monster!” she screamed, her voice bouncing off the marble walls. The crowd leaned in, eating it all up. “You’re making this up to save face! What’s next, huh? You gonna sayshe—” she jabbed a finger at Helen, whose calm smile hadn’t budged —“invited you to dinner with the Cross family? Huh? Huh? Is that it?”

Adrian’s eyes didn’t waver, his voice flat but sharp. “You are right in saying that Helen is Cross family, yes. But no, she didn’t invite me. Someone else did.”

The crowd snickered, all amused by Adrian’s words. Bobby Jackson, his tie still crooked, barked a laugh. “Damn, V this your ex is really a dreamer. Can you hear the nonsense he is spewing?” he said, loud enough for everyone to hear. “You? Cross family? Come on.”

Vanessa’s sneer grew, her heels clicking as she stepped closer. “You’re pathetic, Adrian. I want you to know that you are a pathetic piece of lying shit!”

The noise soon pulled a woman from the back of the lobby. It was Vivian, the E Hotel’s manager. She wore a crisp, red brazer and her face looked all business and no nonsese. Her heels tapped sharp as she cut through the crowd. Everyone parted ways for her to pass through. The staff quickly scurried back to their posts.

Bobby spotted her, his smirk widening like he’d just won a bet. “Oh, Vivian, so good to see you,” he said, his voice oily, offering a hand she barely shook. But he had passed the message. He knew her. She knew him.

Vivian’s eyes narrowed, scanning the scene. “What’s going on here, Bobby?”

He chuckled, waving a hand at Adrian and Helen. “We got two lunatics crashing your hotel, Vivian. This loser —” he pointed at Adrian, his watch flashing, “he says the Cross family’s treating him to dinner. Can you believe that? And her?” He nodded at Helen, “She claims she’s Cross family. I mean, my ears hurt already from their bluff.”

Vivian’s face immediately went pale, a bead of sweat on her brow. She knew the Cross family was hosting someone big in the Supreme Banquet Hall tonight. In fact, John Cross himself had called to confirm. And he never calls.

Viewers were equally taken aback. They saw the pale on Vivan’s face. Like she had just seen a ghost. Could it be? Could it be that Adrian was telling the truth all along?

Her eyes flicked to Adrian, then Helen, her mind racing. Bobby, oblivious, kept talking. “It’s fine, Vivian. You have no need to be worried. See, Vanessa’s the one hosting the Cross family. Big Cooperation deal. Right, V?”

Vanessa nodded, her chin high, soaking up the crowd’s murmurs. “That’s right. Bobby got me the deal. Adrian’s just… desperate. A leech. He must leave.”

But Vivian wasn’t listening. She couldn’t afford any misunderstanding. “I know every single member of the Cross Family. I know sir John Cross, I know all of the elites and important people, even as far as distant cousins. There’s not a single one of the family member I do not know of.” she claimed.

Pushing through the crowd, Vivian saw Adrian and Helen still standing there confidently. She carefully examined their faces. And then,her voice shot out, loud and angry. “Security!” she barked, pointing at Adrian and Helen. “Get these two out of here.”

“Now!”

Chapter 7: The Price Of Pride The E Hotel lobby was a circus.

Bobby and Vanessa, who’d been twitchy, busted out laughing at Vivian’s order. Bobby’s chubby face lit up, his tie half-undone. “See, V? Told you he’s a liar,” he said, his loud enough for the whole lobby to hear. Vanessa’s lips twisted, her black dress rumpled from all her stomping.

“God, Adrian, you’re such a joke,” she spat, her eyes glinting with smug satisfaction.

Suddenly, four security guards stomped over, their boots smacking the floor. The lead one, a beefy dude with a shaved head, jabbed a finger at Adrian and Helen. “You heard her. Move it, or we make you.” The crowd chitchatted, some whispering “loser,” others snapping pics, ready to post this mess online.

Helen’s sneer was cold. She had been shipped off to expensive schools abroad as a kid to study, so Vivian not knowing her face wasn’t a shock. But the manager’s attitude? That pissed her off really bad. It greately displeased her.

Vivian stepped up, her blazer stiff, her smile mean. “You two, you dare impersonate members of the Cross family?” she said, her words dripping with venom. “You’ll regret that. Both of you.” She waved at the guards, who cracked their knuckles, closing in.

Vanessa’s face was a mix of pity and glee, like she’d just won the lottery. Divorcing Adrian was the smartest thing she’d ever done. He was a nobody, always would be, and now he was making a fool of himself in public. She turned to Bobby, her voice smug. “Can you believe I put up with him for years?”

Bobby grabbed her hand, his palm sweaty, his watch flashing like it was screaming for attention. “Jesus, V, I’m embarrassed just standing near him,” he said, loud enough for the crowd to chuckle. “Keep it quiet that this clown was your ex, alright? Too godamn humiliating.” He scrunched his face, like he’d smelled something bad. “You know what? Let’s get outta here. This space is tainted by these lowlives. Let’s not get infected. We should go back into the Banquet hall to wait for the real Cross family.”

Vanessa nodded, her heels clicking as she turned. “Yeah, Bobby, I need a drink after this nonsense.” They strutted off, the crowd parting like they were royalty, some muttering “queen shit” under their breath. Vanessa didn’t look back, already dreaming of her Cross family deal, her company’s name in lights.

Adrian and Helen didn’t move an inch. Adrian’s hands stayed in his pockets, his face calm, like the guards were just annoying flies. Helen stood tall, angry but calm. And Vivian’s face went red, her patience shot. She snapped. “Guards, teach these two a lesson they’ll never forget!”

Helen quickly whipped out her phone, her fingers steady, and dialed John Cross. Enough of this!

“Grandfather,” she said, voice cool but with a bite, “they’re trying to kick me and Adrian outta the E Hotel. Yeah, right now.”

John Cross’s voice roared through the line, loud enough that even Vivian flinched, wondering if that was really John Cross.

“What?!! I’m coming in, NOW! I’m just a minute away.” John roared and ended the call.

Vivian smirked, crossing her arms. “Aww… nice try,” she said, her voice thick with sarcasm. Where’s your grandaddy now?.” Facing the guards, “What are you waiting for?”

Just then, tires squealed outside, the Cross family convoy rolling up like a storm. The lobby doors burst open, and John Cross stormed in, his cane thumping. His face was twisted with fury. Behind him were Marcus, the butler, his suit crisp, and a pack of Cross family members — cousins, advisors, all dressed like they owned the city.

The crowd went quiet, phones still up, but now filming something bigger. The stars were here. The entire Cross family.

“Stop!” a voice shouted. It was Mr. John, his voice rattling the fancy light fixtures.

Vivian spun around, her smirk suddenly dissapeared, now pale like she had seen a ghost. Was this really John Cross? Of course it was. She immedieately dropped into a bow, her voice shaking. “Mr. Cross, I’m so sorry for this comotion! These two..” she pointed at Adrian and Helen “...they were impersonating your family, sir. I was just getting rid of them, sir!”

At this moment, Helen stepped up, her smile sweet but sharp as a switchblade. “Grandpa,” she began, loud enough for the whole lobby to hear, “so I’m not Cross family after all? That’s news to me. I thought you raised me since I was in diapers.”

Vivian’s jaw dropped, sweat dripping down her face like she’d been caught stealing. No, worse, caught in a murder act. Her knees hit the floor with a dull thud, her blazer wrinkling as she collapsed. “M.. Miss Helen?” she stammered, her voice barely there. “I… I had no clue…”

She was finished!!

Chapter 8: Tables Turned Vivian knelt on the floor, her red blazer creased. Sweat dripping down her face like she’d just walked out of hell fire alive. It turned out that everything Helen had said was true. She really was a Cross. And not just any Cross, John’s favorite.

Now, all Vivian could do was beg. Really drop on her knees and beg for Adrian and Helen’s forgiveness. And so she did.

John Cross, however, loomed over her, his cane thumping, his face red with rage. “You. How dare you? You’re done,” he growled. “You are fired. For insulting Mr. Adrian West!”

Vivian’s hands shook, her voice a broken whisper. “Mr. Cross, please, I didn’t know…” She looked at Adrian, then Helen, her eyes pleading. “I’m sorry, I swear on my mother’s grave, I didn’t mean…”

John cut her off, his cane jabbing the air. “Save it. You’re out.” He turned to Adrian, his face softening, almost ashamed. “Adrian, I’m so humiliated this happened. Please, let me make it right. Please, join us in the Supreme Banquet Hall.”

Really, John Cross felt extrememly embarassed. He had invited Adrian over to be honored and now, Adrian had to see all of this nonsense from rude people like Vivian?!

The crowd gasped, whispers exploding. The movie, if it had a title must be, Tables Turned.

The Supreme Banquet Hall? That was for the city’s elite — mayors, moguls, presidents, celebrities, people who owned skyscrapers and mutli-million dollar firms. Eyes darted to Adrian, who stood calm, hands in his pockets, like he’d expected this all along.

Who the hell was this guy?

Adrian nodded, his voice low. “Lead the way, John.” Helen’s smile was small but sharp, like she’d just won a bet nobody else knew about. The Cross family flanked Adrian and Helen as they moved through the lobby, leaving Vivian on her knees, her career in absolte ruins.

***********

The Supreme Banquet Hall was a sight — gold-trimmed walls, crystal chandeliers, tables draped in silk clothing. Well dressed waiters in crisp vests glided with trays of very very expensive champagne, and the air smelled of money and roasted lamb. John led Adrian and Helen to a head table, his eyes still apologetic.

“Adrian,” he said, voice heavy, “I… I can’t believe that fool manager disrespected you. It’s on me. This is on me. I am deeply sorry about today.”

Adrian settled into a chair, his face unreadable. “Come on, it’s not your fault, John. Vanessa was here. Her presence brought this trouble. You know, she is always stirring trouble. Trouble is her middle name.” He glanced at Helen, who sat beside him. She quickly looked away, shyly.

John’s face darkened at Vanessa’s name. “Damn it,” he muttered to himself, pulling out his phone. “I forgot to cancel that Cooperation with her company.” He dialed fast, his voice sharp as he spoke to his assistant. “Get me the manager handling Vanessa’s deal. NOW!” The assistant scrambled, then gave him a number. John called, his jaw tight, waiting for the line to connect.

**********************

Across the hotel in a way smaller banquet hall, Vanessa and Bobby sat at a long table, surrounded by a crowd of well-dressed guests — business types in suits, women in flashy dresses, all invited to watch Vanessa seal her big Cross family deal.

The room was lively, glasses clinking, everyone laughing out loud, real and fake, but it paled in comparison to the Supreme Banquet Hall’s grandeur.

A middle-aged man in a gray suit, the Cross family’s contract manager, leaned toward Vanessa, his smile all flattery. “Wow, Miss Lang,” he said, voice smooth, “you’ve got a hell of a partner. I mean, getting deals like this is almost impossible. People out there would kill to get what you now have. Whoever your partner is, they definetely langated your deal with the Cross Family.”

Vanessa’s eyes flicked to Bobby in gratitude, her smile smug.

“Umm… Vanessa, isn’t your husband here?” the manager suddenly asked without warning.

The question broke through the noise, silencing everyone. Vanessa was extremely embarrased. She had prepared for this meeting, but had definitely not included this conversation in her speech preparation. “Umm…” she began, trying to compose herself. “You see, my husband… um… he is really not fitting for places like this. I mean, this is not his thing. He is way too ornidary to come to an ocassion like this.” she answered.

“Bobby is my ‘husband’ for the day, if you know what I mean.” she jeered and the crowd laughed in response. “No, really, Bobby has power. You spoke about having a good partener, that is him. He used his connections to help me get in touch with the Cross Family.”

Bobby puffed up, his tie still crooked, his watch sparkling like it was trying too hard. The guests murmured approval, some raising glasses to Vanessa’s “power couple” vibe. Even though the joke was clear that they were not a couple, sometimes, the joke just write itself.

The manager’s smile faltered, his brows knitting. “Bobby?” he asked, glancing at him. “Huh. I meant…” He trailed off, confused. He seemed to have seen Bobby. And his mental picture of Bobby was not this pretender in front of him. Not even close. He definetly didn’t have the juice to touch the Crosses. The manager opened his mouth to clarify, but his phone buzzed in his pocket, loud and insistent.

“Excuse me,” he said, standing fast, his chair scraping. His expression changed abruptly as he saw the caller. He instantly exited the hall. It was his boss calling.

John Cross.

Chapter 9: Queen Lena It’d been just 2 minutes since the manager bolted out of the hall temporarily to take a call, leaving a ripple of confusion.

The ordinary banquet hall soon became filled with chitchat and small talks, glasses clinking as Vanessa’s guests crowded around her and Bobby, her ‘husband’ for the day.

The room was alive with excitement. Men in pressed suits, women in shiny dresses, all swarmed Vanessa like she was now a celebrity, a global icon.

They all tried to strike a conversation with her, flattering her. “Miss Lang, what a deal!” one said, his tie loose from too much wine.

“You sure are gonna put this city on its knees,” another chimed, a woman with earrings that dangled like chandeliers. They were all fishing for a way to rub shoulders with the Cross family, and Vanessa was their golden ticket. If they could get on her good side, then they automatically are on Cross’ good side too. And that… that was a start.

Vanessa soaked it up, her chest swelling with pride. She loved it. Every single second of it.. The attention, the love, the fame. This was it. Her moment — her company on the verge of a massive deal, her name about to be etched in the city’s power circles.

Nothing like the days with Adrian, dragging her down with his cheap, quiet dinners and nobody status. She stood taller, her black dress smoothed out. Her smile turned even brighter as the cameras that she had pre-arranged flashed.

“Thank you, everyone. Thank you,” she said, voice loud, basking in the attention. “This deal is just the start.”

A guy in a velvet jacket leaned in, his glass sloshing. “So, who’s this guy?” he asked, nodding at Bobby, whose chubby face was red from the spotlight. “Your um… partner in crime?” The room chuckled, eyes darting to Bobby’s proud smile and flashy watch, still screaming for attention.

Vanessa froze for a second, her smile twitching. Announcing her divorce now, right before her company’s listing, could stir up bad press. She turned to Bobby, his smirk wobbly but smug, his hand resting on hers like he owned her.

Then it hit her!

Bobby was her ace, the guy who “connected” her to the Cross family. He could handle any fallout. Why shouldn’t she tell the world about them?

She looped her arm through his, her voice sugary. “Everyone, meet Bobby Jackson, my boyfriend,” she said, pausing for effect. “Yes, I divorced Adrian — best decision I ever made. Bobby’s the one who got me this Cross family deal.”

The room went quiet, the air heavy with awkwardness. Then a few clapped, others joining in, their applause half-hearted but loud enough to break the tension.

“Smart move, Vanessa!” a woman called, her lipstick smudged from her drink.

“That ex of yours was truly drawing you back,” another added. “Should’ve dumped him ages ago.” The crowd murmured agreement, some throwing shade at Adrian’s name, like he was a punchline.

Vanessa’s smile widened, her heart racing with glee. She loved this — the flattery, the envy, the feeling of being on top. Bobby puffed up beside her, his sweaty palm squeezing her hand. “Told you, V,” he said, loud for the room. “You’re a queen. I’m just the guy holding your crown.” The crowd laughed, eating it up, and Vanessa felt untouchable.

Suddenly, the banquet hall doors swung open, and a pack of journalists and photographers spilled in, cameras clicking, mics turned on and ready.

“Miss Lang!” one shouted, his press badge swinging. “This Cross family deal’s huge! We’re covering it wall-to-wall!”

Another, a woman with a recorder, pushed forward. “Tell us about your partnership!”

The guests gasped, whispering, “Wow! She’s got press?” and “This is big-time.” Vanessa’s chest swelled. Really, though, she’d hired these reporters herself, a slick move to make her deal the talk of the city.

Vanessa straightened her dress, her smile camera-ready. “I’m thrilled to be working with the Cross family,” she said, her voice smooth, practiced. “This Cooperation is a game-changer for my company, and I’m honored to…” She paused, milking the moment when the doors swung open again, cutting her off. This time, it was the Cross Family Manager.

The manager stormed back in, his gray suit wrinkled, his face pale as a ghost. The room turned, eyes wide, expecting him to join Vanessa’s speech. She grinned, waving him over.

“Come on up, Mr. Carter!” she called, her voice bright. “Tell everyone about our deal!”

But Mr. Carter was smiling like he was just minutes ago. His face was grim, his jaw tight like he’d just swallowed bad news. He stopped in the middle of the room, his shoes scuffing the polished floor, and stared at Vanessa. The crowd all went silent, sensing trouble.

Bobby’s smirk began to fade, his hand twitching on Vanessa’s arm. “What’s up, man?” Bobby asked, his voice too loud, trying to play it cool. “Don’t tell me the manager himself is nervous!”

Carter’s eyes were cold, his voice sharper. “You’re celebrating too soon, Miss Lang,” he finally spoke, loud enough for the whole hall to hear. “The Cooperation with your company? It’s canceled.”

“Done!”

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

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The steak had been reheated three times. Cold wax dripped from the candles onto the lace tablecloth, pooling like frozen tears. I stared at my phone—nine missed calls. No reply. Our daughter Aria had waited until nine, clutching her drawing of us holding hands, before finally letting me tuck her in.

Then the door clicked open.

Vanessa stumbled in, reeking of alcohol and expensive perfume. Her heels skidded across the hardwood, one vanishing under the couch.

"Why are you still up?" she snapped, eyes glazed. "Is our daughter asleep?"

I swallowed the ache. "It's our anniversary, Vanessa. I called you nine times."

She rolled her eyes, grabbing a glass. "Company's going public tomorrow. Some of us have real work."

I gestured to the ruined dinner. "Aria wanted to celebrate with us."

"She's fine. You're the one making a big deal outta nothing."

Then she froze. "How do you know about the Cross family?"

My pulse slowed. This was the moment. The truth sat on my tongue—my name, my lineage, the empire I'd hidden to keep her safe.

But before I could speak, she waved me off. "I must've been blind to marry a man like you. You're nothing compared to Bobby."

And then I saw it—the hickey blooming on her neck.

"So… that mark was left by Bobby as well?"

She flinched, covering it. "Wh-what? Impossible… I told him not to—"

"So you cheated?" My voice cracked.

"Yes, okay? Are you blameless? If you hadn't gotten me pregnant—"

"Then what? You'd be free? Unashamed?"

She laughed bitterly. "You're disgusting. This food smells like shit. I won't even touch it."

The words carved into me. Five years I'd spent building her company from the shadows. Five years playing the nobody.

I stood, my voice hollow. "Vanessa… I want a divorce."