2025-03-28 01:48:21CHAPTER 4
At Zenith Lux, the most prestigious business empire in Halcyon City, luxury was the standard, and power dictated influence.
The towering glass structure gleamed under the city lights, a symbol of absolute financial dominance.
It was the kind of place where only the wealthiest dared to step foot.
As Tatiana and Alexander stepped out of the grand establishment, their presence exuded elegance and power.
They had just concluded an important meeting, one that only proved Alexander’s family's dominance in the business world.
At that moment, a fleet of luxury cars pulled up to the front of Zenith Lux, their engines humming smoothly, radiating wealth and status.
Among them, a single car stood out—sleek, black, and commanding attention like a swan among ducks.
From it stepped Desmond Ashford.
Dressed in a fitted dark suit that outlined his lean yet strong frame, Desmond exuded quiet confidence.
Yet, unlike the men who flaunted their wealth, his presence carried an air of mystery.
As he moved toward the entrance, his sharp gaze caught sight of two familiar figures—Tatiana and Alexander.
His instinct was to avoid them.
He had no desire for confrontation, no interest in bringing up the past.
Yet, the more he tried to be unnoticed, the more fate seemed to push them toward him.
Tatiana was effortlessly elegant, her beauty undeniable.
Her fitted Hermès dress hugged her slender waist and soft curves, giving a quiet elegance.
Each step in her Louis Vuitton heels was poised and confident.
She stood close to Alexander, leaning slightly into him as she spoke, her tone laced with admiration.
“Alex, your family now ranks first in the ultra-exclusive stage at Zenith! Wow!” she said, her voice filled with excitement.
Alexander smirked, enjoying the praise.
Zenith Lux wasn’t just a business empire; it was the pinnacle of all elite enterprises, boasting a total net worth of over 700 billion dollars, increasing daily.
Every influential business in the city was somehow tied to it, making it the ultimate playing field for the powerful.
Owning shares in Zenith Lux wasn’t an easy feat.
There were five crucial stages to pass before even obtaining 5% of shares, a percentage worth hundreds of thousands of dollars.
However, beyond that, the ultra-exclusive stage was where only the top three members resided.
It was a level reserved for those who had complete control over industries, and under these three, all other candidates who passed the five stages were placed, constantly striving to improve their rank and influence.
Alexander’s family stood at the very top, holding the number one spot on the ultra-exclusive stage for two years straight.
They enjoyed a profit share of over 89.7% monthly, amounting to hundreds of millions of dollars.
Their name alone commanded respect, and many aspiring business owners sought their favor to rise in status.
“Well, a wealthy family like yours deserves nothing but the best,” Tatiana continued, her admiration clear.
Alexander shrugged with a proud smile.
“It’s been two years since we ranked first, yet no one has even come close to competing with us.”
Desmond observed them silently.
He saw the way Tatiana blushed and how she smiled at Alexander in a way that was never reserved for him.
The contrast was painful, but he refused to dwell on it.
He turned away, determined to move forward.
But just as he was about to step into the building, fate played its cruel hand.
In a mere second, Tatiana and Alexander were right in front of him.
The moment Tatiana laid eyes on him, the smile on her face froze.
Then, her expression twisted into one of irritation.
“Why are you here?” she demanded, her voice sharp.
Desmond’s eyes met hers, his gaze calm but unreadable.
“Why can’t I be? Are places not meant for people to be?”
Tatiana scoffed. “Sure, it’s meant for people. But not trash like you.”
Desmond raised a brow. “Trash?”
Tatiana folded her arms.
“Okay, tell me, can you even compare yourself to him?” She stepped closer to Alexander, her hand resting lightly on his shoulder.
Alexander chuckled, slipping his hands into his pockets, exuding arrogance.
“Me? Compared to this nonentity?” He shook his head, letting out a mocking laugh.
“He must have come here to beg for money or something.”
Tatiana smirked. “Oh! I almost forgot you’re a snitch. You must be here to spy on me again.”
Desmond sighed, shaking his head dismissively. “I’m just here to take over my company.”
A tense silence followed.
Tatiana’s eyes widened for a split second before bursting into laughter.
Her laughter echoed, drawing the attention of passersby. It was a laugh-filled with mockery and disbelief.
“Mr. President of Zenith Lux!” she mocked, laughing even louder.
Alexander looked at her, confused, before turning to Desmond with amusement.
“What did he just say?” Alexander asked.
Tatiana wiped a tear from the corner of her eye. “He said he’s here to take over his company!”
Alexander let out a dry chuckle, then shook his head. “This has to be the biggest joke of the year.”
Tatiana turned back to Desmond, her eyes gleaming with ridicule. “Do you even know what Zenith Lux is worth? A company whose net worth is in the billions, increasing daily? No one even knows how high it truly is now.”
“And this worthless man claims he owns it?” Alexander smirked. “His brain needs to be checked.”
Tatiana’s laughter returned. “Even if he wanted to check his brain, how would he afford it? I doubt he even has fifty dollars on him right now.”
Alexander snapped his fingers. “Well, at least I can help him with that. He has, after all, helped my girl with her house chores before.” He turned to Tatiana with a smirk.
Tatiana gasped dramatically. “Oh no! I can’t believe I was once married to this liar!”
Desmond stood still, unmoved by their insults.
He said nothing.
He didn’t react, didn’t argue, didn’t let them see if their words got to him.
His silence was far louder than their laughter.
Previous Chapter
Related Chapters
Broken to billionaire: A vengeful return CHAPTER 5
CHAPTER 5After the two were done with their drama, Desmond gently tried to leave them. If he continued to prove anything, they still wouldn't believe him and would only continue to lash out at him.Seeing his silent treatment and indifferent reaction angered Tatiana even more. As he tried to move away, she stepped in front of him again, blocking his path.“How dare you leave just like that?” she snapped. “We ain't done.” She shouted. “What else? The last time I checked, everything was totally concluded this morning.” Desmond responded.Tatiana frowned. “You think you can go scot-free? I need compensation.”“Compensation?” Desmond exclaimed.“Yes, for being your wife all these years.”“No! You mean compensation for cheating on me the whole time we were married.”“Excuse me?” Tatiana scoffed. “Why not compensate me if you feel the letter from Nicholas Everstone was true?”Desmond was taken aback. He remembered leaving some of his belongings behind, including the letter addressed
Broken to billionaire: A vengeful return CHAPTER 6
CHAPTER 6“Now your wings have grown.If you aren’t a liar from the pit of hell, then explain the letter! Where did you get the pendant?“It’s truly a pity that I once married you. You were never my match, it was just an unworthy mistake.”She scoffed, her voice dripping with disdain.“It only proves that you’re not just a penniless orphan but someone whose common sense is completely derailed.”“Again, Desmond, I demand compensation. If not, you’ll regret this.”Desmond, drained of his last bit of energy, barely reacted.He had no interest in her theatrics anymore. They were divorced now and that was all that mattered. And to top it off, she wasn’t even the person he had believed her to be.What else was left? He just needed to leave.“What do you want?” he asked calmly.If giving her what she wanted meant ending this drama once and for all, Desmond was ready. He had more important things to focus on—like finding the right girl.Tatiana’s eyes widened slightly at his response.She
Broken to billionaire: A vengeful return CHAPTER 7
CHAPTER 7The slight scar on Desmond’s head was the result of hitting his head on a rock-like stone at the orphanage home. He had pushed Tatiana away from danger that year, saving her life. After receiving treatment, only a faint mark remained.Oh my God! The very person he had nearly lost his life for, risking everything to rescue her, enduring the pain of the injury, and suffering through the treatment, had not only betrayed him but had also laughed at what she caused. If fate had been unkind, it could have been her life lost instead.He had shielded her from death, yet she showed nothing but ungratefulness. The cheating, the divorce, and now this? Laughing at him, mocking his efforts, belittling him as if he were worthless?Desmond instantly shook off the thought. It was all in the past and no longer mattered. What mattered now was finding the one who had been there for him in his darkest times."Since all your big talk has led nowhere, it only proves that you’re just an empty
Broken to billionaire: A vengeful return CHAPTER 8
CHAPTER 8“I can see and appreciate your effort towards getting it done, but you can keep it with you for the meantime,” Desmond said.At the hearing of this, Harrison almost panicked again. He thought Desmond was annoyed, but was only stylishly responding calmly.“Sir, I'm sorry. I'm here to do whatever you command and would not in any way stress you or intentionally do what you would not like. I'm so sorry, Sir. Nothing of such would happen again,” Arthur pleaded.“If you do not mind, I can help deliver it to the owner's doorstep in less than thirty minutes. I promise to meet up this time around, Sir,” he continued, fixing his gaze on Desmond to make sure he read all his body language, trying to understand what it meant.“It’s fine, don’t bother. It’s just not needed anymore,” Desmond said.“Be calm. You don’t have issues with me, I assure you,” Desmond added, his tone cool.“Uhm, I need to ask about something quick” “Yes, Sir,” Harrison replied, leaning closer to Desmond as thoug
Broken to billionaire: A vengeful return CHAPTER 9
CHAPTER 9At that moment, Desmond spoke up.“Why not attend to her, Mr. Harrison?” Desmond said, thinking he could probably recollect better if he fixed his gaze on her for a longer time.However, he wanted to know why she was here and why she was panicking. From her actions, something serious must be happening to her.Desmond would be glad to assist her.If she was the lady he thought, good for him.Otherwise, she would be lucky.“Yes, sir,” Arthur responded. Like a well-oiled machine, he quickly rushed to attend to Camilla.“How may I help you, Miss Camilla?”“Uhm… sir, I’m here to bring to your notice that the Frederick Group has not been placed, but we have passed the five crucial stages. Perhaps there was a mix-up,” she said, her voice trembling.“Oh? Can I have proof of that?” Arthur inquired.“Here it is, sir,” Camilla said, stretching forward the spiral-banded documents in her hand, which clearly stated where the Frederick Group had passed the stages. Her hands were slightl
Broken to billionaire: A vengeful return CHAPTER 10
CHAPTER 10Camilla walked out of the office, her steps slow and heavy, as if the weight of the world rested on her shoulders. The rejection stung, but she forced herself to keep her head high. She had tried her best, there was nothing more she could do.As she reached the elevator, her phone buzzed in her pocket. She hesitated, pulling it out. An unknown number.“Hello?” she answered, her voice low.“Miss Camilla, please return to Mr. Harrison’s office immediately,” the voice instructed.Her breath caught. Was this another rejection? Another reason to humiliate her? But she had no choice. Turning around, she retraced her steps, her heart hammering with uncertainty.Back in the office, Desmond had already instructed Harrison to accept the Fredericks as new partners.As Camilla got back to the office, she hesitated.“Mr. Harrison?” she asked, her voice guarded.“Yes. Miss Camilla, I need to review your file once again.”For a second, she didn’t understand. Then realization dawned.
Broken to billionaire: A vengeful return CHAPTER 11
Moments later, Alex and Tatiana entered Zenith Lux, heading straight to Harrison’s office.Just then, they spotted Camilla in front of the elevator, waiting for it to arrive. She was on her way to finalizing Fredericks' documentation, securing the top spot on the ultra-exclusive list.Without hesitation, Alex moved toward her, his anger boiling. If looks could kill, Camilla wouldn’t be standing upright with the way Alexander looked at her while approaching. Alex was burning to the core. If water were poured on him, it would sizzle away instantly.“You… just tell me how.”Camilla stiffened. “Excuse me?”She knew what the Zacks were like, but she hadn’t expected an attack this early.Alex smirked, giving a slow, mocking clap. “Tell me, how does it feel to climb to the top overnight?”“What’s with all this embarrassment? Are you here to fight me or…” Camilla responded.“Oh, don’t play innocent,” he sneered. “We both know your family isn’t worthy of that position. So, tell me, what e
Broken to billionaire: A vengeful return CHAPTER 12
Meanwhile, as Camilla rested on the sleek metallic chair, she slowly glanced through her phone. What she saw was astonishing.She squinted her eyes, reading again to be sure she wasn’t imagining things.“How?” she whispered in surprise.“Just now, the Zack Group has been completely canceled from partnering with Zenith Lux.” Her voice trembled with disbelief.“Has the new president found them unworthy? Or did Mr. Harrison just decide this out of the blue?” she muttered to herself, trying to process the situation.She kept thinking about how everything had shifted so drastically—from Zack Group being at the top to getting demoted, and now vanishing completely.How was this even possible? She couldn’t fathom it.“See this,” Camilla turned her phone towards Desmond, urging him to take a look.Desmond already knew what she wanted to show him. He took a quick glance and nodded with a knowing smile.“Are you sure you saw what I just showed you? They’ve been dismissed by Zenith Lux!” she said
Latest Chapter
CHAPTER 26
As Desmond left the VibeSquare Suites so casually, every incident that had occurred at the hotel slipped from his mind almost instantly. It wasn’t something he considered worth dwelling on.Then, the memory of Delphine’s health status resurfaced. He knew Camilla wouldn’t be emotionally stable seeing her mother in that condition. Although she was gradually recovering after several long months of illness, Desmond still preferred that Delphine be completely fine and back on her feet.Desmond would do anything to make Camilla happy. She had once been kind to him in his darkest hour, out of pure kindness. That act of selfless kindness had remained etched in his heart. So now, Desmond wouldn’t hesitate to do whatever it took to bring a smile to her face even if it'll cost spending millions. Her happiness was what mattered to him the most. And if taking care of her family could contribute even a little to that joy, Desmond wouldn’t think twice about doing it. His love for Camilla had grown
CHAPTER 25
“You’re wearing something worth more than this entire ballroom. Perhaps more than your current net worth.”The whispers exploded like a bursting dam.Sterling staggered back slightly, the color draining from his face as though he had seen a ghost.Felix looked between the man and Desmond, trying to process it all. “Why would you give me something like this?” he asked, his voice barely above a whisper, thick with disbelief.Desmond said nothing.Not yet.Everyone was stunned. Those who truly knew Ambassador Theo understood, he had been into luxury accessories for as long as anyone could remember. And Theo never spoke rubbish. If anything, his quietness often weighed heavier than most men’s loud boasts.Then, Theo looked up sharply, his eyes locking onto Desmond like a hawk spotting an unexpected prey. “Do you have any idea what this is?”Desmond gave a casual shrug, his tone unbothered.“Not really. Just know it meant a lot to someone who meant a lot to me.”Theo stared a moment longe
CHAPTER 24
“Why would you put such in your hand?” Sterling said annoyingly, his brows furrowed in disbelief as he looked at the worn wristwatch now strapped around Felix’s wrist.“What if it's harmful to you? I don't trust him,” he continued, his voice laced with seriousness. “You don’t even know where that’s been. What if he poisoned it? Or tampered with it?”Felix turned sharply. “Stop it, Sterling. Desmond is my friend. Right from my teens. Even before I knew you. He can’t do that to me.”The weight in Felix’s tone made a few heads turn. For a man known for his easy smile and measured calm, it was rare to hear such firmness from him. But Sterling was unmoved.“Friend?” he scoffed. “You’re joking, right?”Sterling’s voice climbed an octave, drawing attention again. “He brought a beat-up trinket to a millionaire’s celebration! And you call that a friend? No, Felix, this isn’t loyalty, it’s delusion. You’ve outgrown people like him.”Desmond stood still, his hands in his pockets, gaze unflinchi
CHAPTER 23
Gasps rippled through the crowd like a stone dropped into still water. The impossible had just happened at the hands of the man everyone had scorned just minutes ago.Lucian’s eyes were wide, jaw clenched, yet no words escaped. Even he, the untouchable Lucian, hadn’t expected this. The bitterness of being outdone before such a crowd scraped at his pride like a thorn across bare skin.Kingsley, meanwhile, stood frozen. His face twitched, composure unraveling with each heartbeat. He glanced around, desperate for a scoff, a smirk, anything to make it all seem like a prank. But the silence screamed louder than mockery.Somewhere in the crowd, Lilian rose slowly. Her expression was unreadable, but her clenched jaw betrayed the storm within. She had never seen Kingsley look so small, not in stature, but in dignity.“Go on,” Desmond said, turning slightly toward him, his voice calm but slicing like a blade over the glass.Kingsley hesitated. He didn’t want to. Not here. Not in front of ever
CHAPTER 22
A range of thoughts swirled through Lucian’s mind leaving him unsettled.His mind couldn’t rest. He didn’t want even a scratch on his car, let alone breaking it, but now, it seemed that was the only solution left.But was he really going to break the car's glass?Damn it! Fixing that would cost nearly thirty thousand dollars to replace a Bugatti Chiron’s bulletproof glass alone.Not that he couldn’t afford it, but to think of breaking the glass for such a reason? And because of other people’s filthy mistakes? That’s what gnawed at him the most.He couldn’t think of a solution at that moment.Everyone around was watching the scene unfold like bystanders at a slow-motion train wreck, helpless and wide-eyed.They knew Kingsley was in deep trouble.Kingsley, who had already risen from the ground, looked calm now, his demeanor as gentle as a dove’s, masking the storm within.He, too, was stuck. No solution came to his mind.The only possible escape from Lucian’s wrath was to get the car op
CHAPTER 21
“Apparently, you don’t know how to spell the word ‘die!’ Desmond snapped.With those words, silence gripped the air. Everyone stared at him like he had just challenged a thunderstorm.Who was this guy?Did he have some kind of supernatural backing?Or did he simply not understand who Lucian Blackwood was and what that name carried?Just then, Lilian sprang from Kingsley’s lap and stormed toward Desmond like a raging bull.“You must be a fool! Today, you dared a great man. If you survive what’s coming, it’ll be by sheer luck. I’m sure the hospital that takes you in will need weeks to stitch you back together,” she hissed, venom dripping from every word like acid on glass.“What are you waiting for? Surround him!” Lucian barked at his bodyguards.Three bulky men advanced. Their chests were like loaded barrels, muscles flexing under tight shirts. They looked like they’d been built in a gym and hardened on the streets.They closed in, glaring at Desmond like wolves circling prey.“How dare
CHAPTER 20
When Desmond was set to leave, Camilla saw him off. At one side of the building, Desmond handed the clothing bought from House of Luxoria to Camilla.“Take it. You can change your wardrobe, now that your position has sped up,” Desmond said, stretching the paper bag toward her.Camilla looked at him in surprise, her eyes dilating like someone hoping to catch an extra sentence that would explain why she deserved such gifts.But Desmond said nothing more.“Oh… what’s that?” Camilla asked, smiling as she searched inside the bag. She brought out the goods one after the other, admiring every piece like a painter analyzing a masterpiece on silk.Her eyes widened at the quality of the dresses, the thoughtful colors, the perfect sizes, the delicate stitching that whispered luxury, and the way each fabric shimmered under the light like moonlight dancing on water.Camilla could recognize quality wear. Even though she didn’t have many of them, she had seen such pieces during her visits to high-en
CHAPTER 19
As Desmond stepped out of House of Luxoria, heading to Camilla’s villa to drop off the items bought, his phone rang. He didn't hesitate to pick up. It was Felix Grayson calling—his friend from the orphanage home. Felix had just won a contract, along with a promotion at work, and he needed all his friends to celebrate with him.“Hello, buddy!” a voice from the other end rang out.“Felix, how have you been?” Desmond asked.“Good. You?”“Good too.”The two friends exchanged greetings with soft chuckles, their smiles stretching wide. It felt like sunlight cutting through a long, cloudy day—warm and familiar after the silence.“I'll be throwing a party at VibeSquare Suites Hotel tomorrow. I’d be glad if you attended,” Felix said.“Okay. Congratulations. I’d try to be there.”“Alright.” Then, the call ended.Getting to Frederick’s villa, Camilla met him at the gate. She wore a casual outfit and no makeup, yet her face glowed like dew-kissed petals at dawn.She escorted him inside. The home
CHAPTER 18
Desmond glared at her as she ran her filthy mouth, but he didn't react.“Okay then, who is the CEO of this company? Can I meet them?” Desmond asked.“Uh-uh.” Talia laughed, clapping her hands in mockery.“As famous as this boutique is, you don't even know who the owner is,” she said, her brows furrowed in disbelief.“Not even the gender, judging by the way you asked that question.”“Anyways, Miss Williams shouldn't even be known to a lowly man like you. Who are you to think you can meet with the CEO?” she scoffed.“Okay, no problem. Let's wait and see if I can see her or not,” Desmond said, bringing out his phone.He dialed Nicholas's number immediately.“Hello. I need the CEO of House of Luxoria to return to her boutique now. The riff-raffs she has here are standing on my nerves,” Desmond said calmly, yet his tone bit like an icy wind.“Oh! Who are those bastards? It seems Williams must be tired of seeing the sun. I'd be there shortly,” Nicholas retorted.“Oh, no. Don’t bother to co
