Donald Smith turned the black gold card in his hand. Only four such cards existed in all of Boston, and each one was worth one trillion dollars. One trillion was a fortune powerful enough to topple dynasties or raise new ones in their place. Beside it lay the Phoenix Ring. The ring wasn’t just jewelry, it was the Chairman’s symbol and the key to his empire. It gave him influence from Boston’s politicians to West Coast business leaders, and even into the dangerous underworld no one dared mention."Just remember one thing," the Chairman's gaze was piercing, "taking possession of a symbol of power doesn't mean you've actually mastered that power. Only with thorough preparation can the ring truly serve you.""In other words, it's best not to let anyone know you have the ring right now—not until you're strong enough to protect it."Donald pondered this for a moment, then nodded firmly. "Understood, master." "As it happens, I've got something for you to do that isn't too difficu

In the most luxurious top-floor office of the DeGrand Group, a woman of striking elegance rose swiftly to her feet, gesturing for several security personnel to follow her. She then strode into the elevator and stabbed the button for the first floor.Her face was grave and deathly pale, her eyes fixed on the descending floor numbers as if willing the elevator to reach the ground floor instantly.But at the 8th floor, the elevator stopped and the doors slid open. The secretary outside spotted Ivy and bowed her head with delight and deference. "Miss Harrington, I've successfully brought the VIP up. We're saved!"Miss Harrington had repeatedly instructed her that once they secured this important guest, their current crisis would be resolved!But the moment she finished speaking, the secretary felt an inexplicable chill wash over her. She looked up in confusion, only to be met with the horrifying sight of Miss Harrington glaring at her in fury."I just received a call from our VIP guest. H

Before they left, Ivy handed Donald an ultra-luxurious suit.The midnight black blazer was a masterpiece from Aurelius Atelier—extravagantly expensive, exuding prestige without ostentation.Donald frowned slightly. "This is far too extravagant, even for you. I don't need this—what I'm wearing is fine."But Ivy merely responded with respectful firmness."This isn't about need, Mr. Smith. It's about ensuring no Tom, Dick, or Harry thinks they can look down on you in my presence.""Fair point." Donald paused, then nodded. His time with Jane had nearly conditioned him to habits of thrift and simplicity. For the moment, he hadn't fully adjusted to his change in status.Ivy reached up and draped the blazer over his shoulders.But the next moment, her breath caught.The cut of the suit accentuated his tall frame and broad shoulders, instantly transforming him into someone completely different.Moreover, he wore the ultra-luxurious garment without the slightest hint of self-consciousness or a

The crowd froze.Jane’s laughter died mid-breath and Jaxon’s smirk stiffened like wet paint drying too fast.Donald’s lips twitched into a faint smile. But instead of walking through the open doors, he stopped—and slowly turned around.Every eye followed him.Jane and Jaxon stood rooted to the spot.Jane’s fake confidence shattered instantly as her lips trembled, eyes darting between Donald and the head of security.Jaxon looked pale and furious, jaw tight, shoulders stiff, as if he’d just swallowed humiliation itself.Donald’s gaze swept over them coldly.“What happened? Weren’t you just warning me to get lost before security ‘dragged me out’?” He gestured casually toward the open door. “Funny, it seems they’re the ones waiting for me now.”Jane blinked rapidly, her face paling. “T-there’s no way—this must be some mistake—”Donald’s soft chuckle cut through her words.“Oh, Jane. Still trying to sound relevant? You never did know when to keep your mouth shut.”Jane’s face flamed cri

Jane’s lips trembled, and her painted smile began to falter. “W-what… what did you just call him?” she stammered, eyes darting between Ivy and Donald as though she’d misheard. Ivy turned her gaze toward her, a faint, knowing smile curving on her lips. “My companion,” she said smoothly. “Is that difficult to believe?” Jane blinked, her throat tightening. Companion? It sounded too intimate. Just then, Ivy added almost offhandedly, “He’s… rather attractive to me.” Donald's pulse quickened in surprise, though his expression remained calm. Jane’s disbelief turned into a strangled laugh. “A-attractive?” she repeated, as if the very word offended her. “Miss, you must have been deceived. That man—” she jabbed a trembling finger toward Donald “—is an ex-convict! A nobody who just got out of prison. He has no job, no future. He must have sneaked into this event with help from his… his prison buddies or something! He’s completely unworthy of you!” Ivy’s brow lifted gracefully wit