Mac Hilton felt the blood drain from his face the moment Harper Valente entered the hallway.She walked in gracefully, like a lioness. She had the air of authority which suddenly made the room feel too small. And right now, she didn't look too pleased. Her sharp gaze sweeping over the gathered crowd with a look of disapproval and mild annoyance. Within an instant, all of Mac’s confidence had evaporated. Because she wasn't just any random executive: she was General Manager Harper Valente– the woman who had been a major driving force behind making Imperium Corp the Empire it was today. And if she was here, it meant things were going to take a dangerous turn– she was dangerously ruthless and efficient, and expected her employees to maintain the same standards. Mac swallowed hard, already feeling the sweat gathering at the back of his neck.Harper’s gaze flicked to him, and he immediately bowed, feeling everyone else turn towards him as well. “Would someone like to explain why my ha

As soon as Mac Hilton stepped out of the office, Lucas straightened up and practically launched himself toward him. Sophia was right behind, clutching her bag and smiling like they’d just won a prize.“Mr. Hilton!” Lucas said eagerly. “So? Did you manage to convince her? Is the deal approved?”Mac halted, his face stone-cold. He didn’t even look at Lucas—his eyes scanned the crowd instead, clearly irritated.“Which deal?” Mac snapped.Lucas blinked. “Ours, of course! The one for the exclusive partnership with Imperium Corp. You said you’d—”“I said what?” Mac turned slowly, his voice low and dangerous.Lucas swallowed hard and reached out, gently grabbing Mac’s elbow. “You told me you would handle it. That you'd speak to Ms. Valente and finalize everything.”That was the last straw.Without warning, Mac yanked his arm free and slammed his fist straight into Lucas’s face. The hit was sharp and direct—Lucas barely had time to react before he stumbled back, his nose bleeding, a gasp risi

The morning sunlight spilled lazily across the windowpane of Nathan’s suite as he set down his coffee mug. Ye had just opened his tablet when his phone came alive with an incoming call. Looking at the screen the caller ID showed “Manager – Rosebud Hotel.He accepted the call. “Nathan speaking.”A warm, professional voice came through. “Good morning, Mr. Nathan Cole. This is Gideon Lang, the general manager of Rosebud Hotel. I hope I’m not disturbing you early this morning?”“Not at all, Mr. Lang.”Nathan replied smoothly. “What can I do for you?”“Actually, sir. Since our takeover has been finalized and the papers have been processed successfully, I am pleased to extend an invitation on behalf of our staff and board. We would be honored if you would attend a small gathering on the executive floor of the hotel this evening.”Nathan leaned back in his chair. “A gathering?”“Yes, sir. A welcome party of sorts,” Gideon clarified. “A few select members of the press will be present. Nothi

Sophia’s fists clenched at her sides as she glared at Nathan. Her cheeks burned with fury, but before she could lash out, Lucas gave a theatrical sigh and spoke louder, ensuring the gathering guests heard every word. “Oh! Okay, I understand now.” He spread his arms, as if explaining something to a crowd of confused children. “You must be feeling that good old inferiority complex creeping in, huh? Empty pockets, no prospects… so naturally, you’re clinging to a sugar mommy who can afford to buy you nice suits. Nice strategy, I must say.” He gave a cruel laugh, tilting his head mockingly. “It’s sweet, really. Looks like you’re finally developing some self-respect. But let me give you one last piece of advice, Nathan—if you ever find yourself begging for money at this five-star hotel, I doubt you’ll even get enough to compensate for that stupid face of yours. Because unlike you, everyone here has a brain and a good taste too.” There were a few gasps in the crowd, some shocked by the bo

Chapter 19 Nathan stood with his hands in his pockets, watching the chaos unfold with a stillness that was almost serene. Guests, who were only whispering behind their backs before were now openly taunting and disrespecting the couple while security swarmed the scene. Their families had already been kicked out but Sophia was still adamant on fighting the guards and staff while desperately clinging to Lucas’s arm, forcing him to stand by and support her. Her new designer heels were clicking nervously as she was trying to negotiate, hoping to leave with some more dignity than they had left. “Mr. Reed!” The hotel manager called, stepping forward with a grim expression and a clipboard in hand. “This is your last warning, and you both are requested to vacate the premises immediately. You and Miss Sophia are banned from entering the Rosebud Hotel again, and if you don't cooperate–” “What the hell are you talking about?” Lucas barked, face red, sweat beading on his forehead. “I