2024-12-26 04:30:32However, before Armand could finish his sentence, his words were cut short by Linda.
“What does Douglas have to do with our dinner?” "Why would you ruin our mood by mentioning that criminal's name?" Linda snapped, her voice sharp and biting. "Criminal?" Armand blinked in confusion. How could Douglas Garnett be called a criminal? Had they understood who he was talking about? "Haven't you heard the news?" Linda narrowed her eyes. Armand stammered, looking even more confused. "What... news?" "I'm talking about the renowned Douglas Garnett who saved PortVarter..." Linda let out a sarcastic laugh. "Look it up yourself. Douglas is a criminal involved in numerous crimes! He is nothing more than a dog we took in out of kindness." "Don't tell me you actually believe the ridiculous rumours about him—that he's some great leader who saved PortVarter..." Linda leaned back in her chair, a glass of expensive wine in hand, as she continued her tirade. "Let's be clear," she sneered, narrowing her eyes at the restaurant manager. "Everything good that has happened in PortVarter is thanks to my father, Governor Clarke.” “His vision and leadership are what brought prosperity here.” “Douglas Garnett? He's just an opportunist who got lucky. A nobody who had no impact!" Hearing Linda's words, Armand couldn't help but frown deeply. Was this some kind of joke? Everyone in PortVarter knew that without Douglas's leadership behind the scenes, PortVarter would have been in shambles! Even the success of Helton Hotel was because of the stability and development Douglas fostered. However, from Linda's expression, he could tell that she wasn't cracking any jokes. His hands tightened at his sides. "With all due respect, Ms. Clarke," he said carefully. "Everyone in PortVarter knows that the state is what it is today because of Mr. Garnett's unwavering commitment. “In fact, without his leadership behind the scenes, none of this, including the dishes—" He gestured to the opulent dining room and beyond. "—would have been possible.” “The success of Helton Hotel is a direct result of the stability and development he fostered." The room fell silent. Linda's expression twisted with anger. While Governor Clarke's face darkened with barely concealed rage. Marvin, who had been silent, leaned forward with a scowl. His previously carefree demeanour had been replaced by irritation. They had planned to ruin Douglas's reputation by fabricating numerous charges against him, hoping he would be forgotten in PortVarter's history. However, this manager was one of those who refused to believe Douglas was simply a criminal, dismissing the idea that he had no impact on PortVarter's progress. "Armand!" Governor Clarke said sharply, his voice cutting through the tension like a blade. "Don’t you think you're overstepping?” “It is not your place to comment on political matters. Stick to running your restaurant and leave the governance of PortVarter to those who understand it!" “Well, sorry for interrupting.” Armand inclined his head to avoid revealing the contempt in his eyes. The Governor's defensive reaction only confirmed his suspicions. Apparently, Douglas Garnett had been used and discarded by Governor Clarke and his allies. They were determined to erase his contributions and tarnish his name, all for their own gain! Armand couldn't help but feel a surge of disdain for the powerful figures seated before him. At the same time, a chill of fear ran through him. If Douglas were truly removed, PortVarter could descend into chaos once again, and the stability his hotel relied on could crumble! Before anyone could speak further, the heavy double doors of the dining hall burst open, and Lieutenant Governor Mason hurried in, his face pale and grim.
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Douglas's Triumph and Their Regret Chapter 8
The air in the room grew tense as all eyes turned to Lieutenant Governor, Mason.His stern gaze swept across the room, settling on Linda, Governor Clarke, and Marvin. “Who was foolish enough to suggest framing Douglas Garnett with charges of corruption, bribery, and prostitution?”Mason demanded, his tone sharp and accusatory.Linda, seated confidently beside her father, raised her chin defiantly. "Those charges are legitimate,” she snapped. “We have irrefutable evidence to prove it.”Mason's piercing gaze locked onto hers, and his lips curled into a cold sneer. "Evidence? Then show it to me,” he said, his voice laced with derision. “Produce this so-called proof that you've concocted to tarnish the name of the man who rebuilt this state from the ashes.”Linda's bravado faltered. Her face flushed, and her hands clenched into fists on the table. “Well?” Mason pressed, his tone growing sharper. “I'm waiting.”Linda opened her mouth to speak, but no words came. The silence that
Douglas's Triumph and Their Regret Chapter 9
The tension in the dining hall reached its peak as Stewart and Marvin's expressions darkened upon hearing Lieutenant Governor Mason's cutting remarks. Linda shifted uncomfortably in her seat, glancing nervously between her father and Marvin. Stewart, his face flushed with anger, stood abruptly and slammed his fist against the table, causing the silverware to rattle.“How dare you speak to me like this, Mason!”He barked, his voice filled with indignation. “You think some uneducated, talentless orphan like Douglas Garnett is indispensable? Let me remind you that without my mercy, that man wouldn't even be alive today.”Mason, unshaken by the governor's outburst, crossed his arms and raised an eyebrow. His disdain was palpable. “Mercy, you say? Mercy didn’t build PortVarter’s roads or stabilize its economy. Mercy didn’t drive ‘The Baddie’ back across the border or save countless lives in this state. Mercy didn’t achieve a GDP of 20 trillion. Those accomplishments belong to Douglas
Douglas's Triumph and Their Regret Chapter 10
Late that night, Chief Nelson drove the black SUV to the base of Maccano Mountain.The deeper they drove, the louder the faint rumble of gunfire echoed from the distant border.This region was always tense!The residents who lived here endured sleepless nights, flinching at the sound of gunfire, never knowing when conflict might sprout up again. But one thing had remained constant over the years: as long as Douglas Garnett oversaw PortVarter, the turmoil from beyond the border never truly crossed into the land. His presence held enough weight to keep certain forces at bay.Before alighting from the vehicle, Nelson felt a little uneasy about Douglas's safety.The whole area was too quiet—eerily so.Nelson had brought along a handful of trusted subordinates to escort Douglas.They scanned the darkened streets with their trained eyes before stepping out of the car. “Stay alert!” Nelson instructed them as he rounded the vehicle and opened the door for Douglas.Douglas stepped out calm
Douglas's Triumph and Their Regret Chapter 11
In unison, the heavily armed personnel turned their heads toward Douglas. Then, in perfect synchrony, they saluted.The silence now felt thunderous. Nelson’s subordinates, equally shocked, exchanged bewildered glances. Their eyes snapped toward Douglas, who stood calm and unperturbed as though the display was nothing out of the ordinary."Sir…?" Nelson whispered, uncertain of what to say. He was filled with confusion!He wondered what kind of hidden identity Douglas possessed that made him command such reverence in the most dangerous region of PortVarter!However, Douglas remained still with his eyes sweeping the formal assembly before him. His gaze, as sharp as a blade, held the soldiers' attention like a magnet!Finally, in a calm and unwavering voice, he spoke,“Did ‘The Baddie’ at the border have a change of heart?” Douglas's voice was neither mocking nor harsh—it carried a quiet authority that seemed to demand answers without force. “Has he decided to break his promise not
Douglas's Triumph and Their Regret Chapter 12
This time, another set of armed forces, wearing the distinct marks of rival warlords, stood silently on either side of the road. Each soldier had lowered their weapons and stood with heads bowed in eerie unison.Their gazes fixed downward as if avoiding eye contact with something—or someone—they dared not offend.“What is this…?” Nelson muttered to himself.Normally, this place was one of chaos—an unspoken battlefield where skirmishes between warlord factions erupted almost daily. Yet today, the landscape was unnaturally calm with armed forces seen all over the place!Nelson’s subordinates exchanged uneasy glances, their hands itching for the comfort of their weapons. Whatever power Douglas held here extended far beyond anything they had anticipated.At the summit of Maccano Mountain, frost covered every inch of the ground. A sharp wind howled through the craggy peaks, cutting like a blade. The convoy came to a stop, and Douglas stepped out first. Nelson and his men followed cau
Douglas's Triumph and Their Regret Chapter 13
Nelson sat rigidly in the driver’s seat, his hands gripping the wheel so tightly that his knuckles had turned white!He didn’t dare to speak, let alone suggest one of his subordinates take over.The drive down Maccano Mountain was silent, save for the soft hum of the engine and the rhythmic crunch of gravel beneath the tyres. As Nelson glanced at the road ahead, he noticed Henry at the base of the mountain, upright, solemn, exuding an air of unshakable authority, as though awaiting their departure. Behind him stretched a long line of armed personnel. Their weapons slung across their chests as they stood like statues, two neat rows on either side of the road.Nelson’s hair stood on end, his throat tightening as he felt a little fear with the way they were all gathered.They all stood as loyal sentinels, their eyes trained forward, unmoving.Suddenly, a powerful, synchronized shout rang through the crisp mountain air, startling Nelson so badly that he nearly slammed on the brakes.“
Douglas's Triumph and Their Regret Chapter 14
Meanwhile, after dinner that evening, Stewart, Linda, and Marvin returned home with a sense of satisfaction. Despite the unwelcome interruption of Lieutenant Governor Mason during Marvin's celebratory dinner earlier, their spirits remained high. After all, they had every reason to feel confident.The triumph of Marvin taking over PortVarter State was seen as a foregone conclusion.Douglas was now nothing more than a relic in their eyes!They were confident that Douglas could no longer turn the tide, especially with Stewart's careful planning and the family's expanding alliances.Stewart sat back in his large, cushioned chair in the family’s drawing room with a glass of aged brandy in hand. He imagined more promotions, wealth, and power.Images of him shaking hands with influential politicians in Sierra, including members of the powerful Drake family, flashed through his mind.“If all goes well, a move to Sierra isn’t out of the question. I could establish myself as a key figure in
Douglas's Triumph and Their Regret Chapter 15
Half an hour later.Marvin reclined against the curved edge of the grand bathtub with a self-satisfied smirk stretched across his face. Linda also flashed a satisfied smile. "The best decision I ever made was breaking off my engagement with Douglas and being with you."Her eyes gleamed as she tilted her head back. A satisfied moan escaped from her lips.Her alluring curves pressed tightly against Marvin. Marvin swallowed hard and chuckled, his breath quickening again. “I bet he’s sitting in some dirty prison cell, his head hung low in defeat." "Maybe he’s even crying out, begging for someone to save him,” Marvin laughed heartily. Linda’s laughter joined his.“Serves him right. That lowlife was always a thorn in everyone’s side. Now, he’s being given what he deserves,” Marvin grinned, his eyes gleaming with a vindictive satisfaction. “I’ll drink to that,” he said, pretending to raise an invisible glass. “Here’s to Douglas Garnett, languishing in prison where he belongs, while
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Chapter 75
The day finally arrived for the grand wedding of Douglas Garnett and Natasha Everdeen.Every detail had been meticulously planned, from the extravagant floral arrangements to the dazzling chandeliers that lined the ceilings of the Everdeen Estate, where the ceremony was set to take place.The venue was nothing short of breathtaking.A grand ballroom with gold-trimmed walls, sparkling crystal lights, and an aisle adorned with white and red roses. The air smelled of fresh jasmine, and the soft sound of violins played in the background as guests arrived in their luxurious limousines.The event was broadcasted live on national television, with millions watching across Remalia and beyond.Dignitaries, celebrities, and government officials, including the President of Remalia himself, were in attendance.The bride, Natasha, looked stunning in a custom-made wedding gown embroidered with diamonds and pearls. The fabric flowed like a river of light as she walked down the aisle, her radiant be
Chapter 74
Douglas's name became legendary across Remalia. People admired him, respected him, and wanted to be associated with him. But no one wanted him more than Linda.Geed and ambition had made her lose her opportunity with Douglas. Now, she regretted it.If only Natasha weren’t in the picture, she thought. Then Douglas would be mine.Linda knew that Natasha wasn’t just some ordinary woman—she was powerful, influential, and came from one of the most prominent families in Remalia. Getting rid of her wouldn’t be easy.But Linda was willing to do whatever it took.And so, she made her move.She paid a group of highly skilled assassins a huge sum of money to track Natasha’s whereabouts and eliminate her.“She must disappear,” Linda told them with a cold and firm voice.Unknown to Linda, Natasha had been one step ahead.Since the arrests of Stewart, Javier, and Marvin, Natasha had suspected that Linda might try something dangerous—perhaps out of revenge or jealousy.And so, she had arranged for a
Chapter 73
The moment Douglas Garnett saw his men collapse, a cold fury surged through his veins. Were they dead? He couldn’t be sure.His remaining officers rushed forward, checking their fallen comrades.“They’re still breathing,” one of them whispered.Douglas peered down. The two officers were alive, but barely. Their breaths were shallow, their bodies weak—as if life itself was slipping away from them.Despite the dire situation, Douglas laughed. A deep, confident laugh.Gregg Wilder narrowed his eyes.“You can do your worst,” Douglas said, meeting Gregg’s gaze fearlessly. “But you can be sure of one thing—you’ll end up in prison. Soon!”At those words, Gregg burst into laughter.“A fool, that’s what you are!” Gregg sneered. “You think you can imprison me? Me? Gregg Wilder?!”He spat on the floor in disgust.“More powerful men than you have tried to bring me down,” Gregg continued, his voice filled with venom. “And where are they now? Dead! Regretting their foolishness in the afterlife. Yo
Chapter 72
When Douglas received Gregg Wilder’s address, he wasted no time. He coordinated with the law enforcement agencies and ensured that security was tight. He knew the risk of what he was about to do.Gregg wasn’t just another criminal—he was a sorcerer, a man whose reach extended beyond Remalia and into PortVarter. If left unchecked, Gregg would cause even more chaos, killing at will and spreading his influence. But for Douglas, this wasn’t just about protecting the state. This was personal.He had spent his entire life not knowing the full truth about his parents' deaths. Now, he knew. Gregg Wilder was behind their death and Douglas was ready to put an end to him.Within a few hours, Douglas and his small team of elite officers arrived at Grena, where Gregg operated from. The sorcerer’s house sat in the middle of a quiet neighborhood. It wasn’t particularly grand, but there was something eerie about it. The paint was faded, the windows were shut tight, and an unusual stillness surround
Chapter 71
Under Douglas Garnett’s leadership, PortVarter flourished like never before. Crime rates plummeted, businesses thrived, and the people finally felt safe in their own homes. His strategic measures and firm hand in governance made him a figure of admiration and the acting governor, Charles Dennis, made sure everyone knew it. At every official event, he proudly showcased Douglas, recognizing him as the backbone of PortVarter’s stability.One Friday, Douglas was deep into an official assignment when his phone buzzed with a notification. He glanced at the screen and frowned. It was an urgent report about a man named Gregg Wilder, a grand sorcerer from Remalia. The report was disturbing—one of the widows and orphans who lived in Exquisite Garden had fallen into his trap. They were now dead.Douglas clenched his fists. Who was this man?!Wasting no time, he dialed one of his most trusted officials.“Find out everything about the sorcerer, Gregg Wilder. Now.”Less than an hour later, his
Chapter 70
“You are being charged with defamation and the fabrication of false evidence against Mr Douglas Garnett. While he was in prison, you both conspired with former Governor Clarke to mislead the public, tarnish his reputation, and ensure his wrongful imprisonment—all for your selfish political gain.”Detective Hayes took a step forward, his voice carrying the weight of the law.“Furthermore, Marvin Drake, you falsely claimed credit for the recent peace in PortVarter, deceiving the public into believing that your administration was responsible. However, irrefutable evidence proves that Mr Douglas Garnett, and not you, was the one who restored security to this state.”The grand hall, which had moments ago been filled with laughter, fell into a deafening silence as the police officers’ words sank in.Marvin's face paled and his confidence evaporated.“Defamation? False evidence?” he stammered, his eyes darting between Javier and the officers.Javier, usually composed, felt his stomach tigh
Chapter 69
Douglas let out a sharp breath, his jaw tightening."How dare he?"Douglas had worked behind the scenes, risking everything to bring back order, while Marvin, who had done absolutely nothing, was basking in undeserved praise.“This fool couldn’t handle the previous crisis,” Douglas muttered bitterly. “And now, he takes credit for what he obviously had no hand in?”Marvin’s lies were spreading like wildfire, and the people were falling for it. However, Douglas was unperturbed. He knew what to do.Meanwhile, Javier had planned a grand party to celebrate Marvin’s so-called achievement.It was held in one of the most luxurious hotels in Sierra, where high-ranking officials, businessmen, and influential political figures gathered.The hall was extravagant—golden chandeliers sparkled, soft classical music played in the background, and rows of tables covered in white silk held exquisite cuisine and the finest wine.Elegant men in tuxedos and women in designer gowns moved gracefully, discussi
Chapter 68
The morning sun rose over PortVarter State, but for Stewart, it felt like the darkest day of his life!Dressed in a black suit with his face grim and aged overnight, Stewart stood before the cameras on live television. His voice trembled as he read out his official resignation from the office of the Governor of PortVarter State."To the great people of PortVarter," he began, swallowing his pride, "I come before you today to admit my failures. I have been incompetent in governing this state, and I take full responsibility for the crisis that has unfolded under my leadership."The cameras zoomed in on his strained expression, capturing every moment of his humiliation."I deeply regret my shortcomings and the suffering my governance has caused. I sincerely apologize to the people and officials of PortVarter State and promise to atone for my failures in any way I can."As his resignation speech ended, there was an eerie silence—then, an uproar of celebration erupted across the state.On
Chapter 67
Linda froze.Douglas’s… fiancée?Her heart sank.Douglas had moved on.And the woman standing before her was everything Linda wasn’t.Beautiful, Powerful!Linda felt small. The woman's name was Natasha.Natasha wasn’t just anyone—she was the woman Douglas's late parents had chosen to be his wife a decade ago. She was from a distinguished high-class family in the national capital, one whose reputation preceded her.And now, she was here, standing beside Douglas like she belonged.Linda clenched her fists, her jealousy threatening to consume her.The woman leaned in, her voice low but deadly."Don’t you dare raise your hand against my man again."Linda yanked her hand away, her shame twisting into rage."How pathetic," Natasha said coolly, watching Linda with undisguised contempt.Before Linda could respond, a sharp, stinging pain exploded across her cheek.Natasha had slapped her.The sound echoed in the room.Linda gasped with her hand flying to her cheek in shock."You dare insult a
