The celebration carried on long into the evening. Guests moved from group to group, introducing themselves, studying unfamiliar faces, exchanging pleasantries, and quietly sealing deals over glasses of champagne. Laughter blended with soft music as the Hale mansion buzzed with influence and ambition.“Levi!”Sophia’s voice cut through the noise as she approached, arm linked with Ethan.“Grandma, Grandpa—you made it,” Levi said, a genuine smile tugging at his lips.“Of course we did, my love,” Sophia replied warmly. “We arrived late because we had to wait for your aunt, but we wouldn’t miss the beginning of your reign for the world.”“We brought you plenty of gifts,” Ethan added cheerfully. “Sara already took them to your room. Be sure to check them out and tell us what you think.”“You didn’t have to,” Levi said softly. “Just being here is more than enough.”“Sophia, Ethan! You made it!” Kaitlin joined them, beaming. She hugged Sophia and Ethan, greeting them with a light French kiss

The car finally came to a stop in front of what looked like an abandoned factory.From the outside, the place was unimpressive—aged concrete walls, rusted metal frames, faded paint. A few people loitered around casually, laughing, talking, blending into the surroundings as if this were nothing more than another forgotten industrial site.But the moment William stepped out of the car, everything changed.The men straightened instantly, their relaxed posture snapping into alert respect. They moved toward the entrance in silent coordination.“Welcome, sir,” one of them greeted.William smiled lightly. “It’s been a while,” he said. “I hope you’ve all been doing well.”“Never been better, sir,” another replied without hesitation.“All thanks to you,” a third added.Their eyes then shifted to Levi—measuring, cautious, unmoving.William caught it immediately and laughed. “Easy, boys. He’s my grandson. That makes him family.”At once, they stepped aside.One of them approached the large metal

The day of The Grand Pacific Quay opening had finally arrived.From the early hours of the morning, the entire complex shimmered with life and anticipation. The massive structure stood proudly against the skyline, dressed in celebration—long satin ribbons draped across its towering glass doors, banners cascading from floor to floor, and soft lights lining every edge of the building, as though the mall itself were breathing in excitement.By 10:30 a.m., the surrounding grounds were already overflowing. People gathered in waves—families, couples, teenagers, tourists—all drawn by the promise of the grand opening and the almost-unbelievable discount sales. The air buzzed with chatter, laughter, and expectation.Reporters lined the front entrance, cameras mounted, microphones tested, lenses adjusted to capture every moment. News vans crowded the curb as journalists prepared to document reactions, fashion, and the historic opening.Minutes before eleven, sleek luxury cars began pulling up o

Without a backward glance, Claire packed her bags. She pressured her parents until they handed over what little money they had, then left for California without hesitation or doubt. The job required a face-to-face assessment, followed by a two-week training and probation period before official employment. Claire arrived dressed in her most expensive—and revealing—outfits, determined not only to secure the position but also to secure a city boyfriend, new friends, and a brand-new life. Back in Northwood Crest, disbelief still lingered. “So she really left?” Tommy’s mother asked. “Yes, Mom,” Tommy replied, slouched on the living room couch. “It’s been five days now. Honestly, I’m just glad I finally got rid of her.” She walked over and slapped the back of his head. “And what happens when she starts earning that big pay you keep talking about?” “I don’t know,” he shrugged. “She already said she won’t share.” She scoffed. “What? After everything we went through with her?”

The convoy moved like royalty through the wide Portland roads.At its center was a Rolls-Royce Phantom Series, midnight black, its polished body reflecting the morning sky. Three Mercedes-Benz vehicles flanked it—one ahead, two behind—all bearing covered plate numbers that offered no clue as to who they carried. The formation was deliberate, precise, commanding attention without asking for it.Inside the Rolls-Royce, Levi Hale sat in silence.One elbow rested against the armrest, his knuckles supporting his chin as his eyes skimmed across the illuminated screen of his tablet. Financial reports, blueprints, schedules—he absorbed them effortlessly, yet his mind was not entirely present. The road hummed beneath the tires, smooth and unbothered, while the world outside passed by like a forgotten memory trying to resurface.Joe, his long-time driver, navigated the streets with calm expertise, his focus unwavering as he steered them away from the airport and deeper into the city.Levi’s tab