Charlotte stepped down from the stage, her heart filled with complexity and contradiction. She felt a sense of relief yet also harboured anxiety and uncertainty. But now, she decided to move forward bravely and face the challenges ahead.Now, she had the ability to support herself. Her artworks, exhibited anonymously at various major exhibitions recently, had received acclaim, and some had even sold for high prices.Currently, she is placing her works on consignment in other studios. She could hold an exhibition in her name once she regained control of her mother's art gallery. By then, her reputation and artwork would become even more popular.Sebastian observed Charlotte from the audience, impressed by her confident smile. Her decisiveness and determination made him reassess her, and he became increasingly interested in her.George stood still, momentarily at a loss. He hadn't expected Charlotte to make such a decision, and his plans and expectations were all thrown into disarray.
As the guests departed from the cancelled engagement ceremony, the news of the Goliath Group's young master's engagement being called off spread like wildfire across social media platforms.In the study room of the Goliath mansion, Rodrigo, George's father, confronted him with two options laid bare. "George, I'll give you two options now: either you secure Charlotte or your grandfather," Rodrigo declared bluntly. "I've just explained to your grandfather. Your feelings for Charlotte are genuine. As long as your grandfather still values Charlotte, it would help if you married her. You can handle the affairs outside as you please after marriage."Having come into the family through marriage, Rodrigo based his son's marital prospects solely on the benefits it could bring. "I know, father," George responded with resignation."There's also your uncle's matter. He just returned and has accepted a significant role in the Goliath Group. I heard from some board members that your grandfather int
When George and Charlotte stand face to face in a sleek, modern art gallery, the atmosphere becomes tense.George, wearing a well-tailored suit, leaned casually against a polished marble column, while Charlotte stood a few feet away, her enthusiasm barely concealed beneath her calm exterior, her gaze firm and firm."You didn't come here today because of the cancellation of the engagement ceremony."Charlotte spoke."No, of course not. I want to talk to you today about your art works. You know that I have always cared about your career. Although we have canceled our engagement, we can still be friends." George wanted to find another way to talk about your career. Get started with what Charlotte cares about most."I've been thinking, Charlotte," George began, his voice steady but with a hint of urgency, "about your artistic career. There's no doubt it's booming, but I believe there's still something untapped potential, opportunities we have yet to explore.Charlotte raised an eyebrow, a
"Charlotte, Mr. Edwin wants to see you at his place," the assistant to the Goliath Group's big boss interrupted, catching Charlotte and George off guard as they exited the exhibition hall."Is everything alright?" Charlotte asked, her curiosity piqued."Yeah, he mentioned something about discussing the future of your studio," the assistant explained.Charlotte's interest was immediately piqued. "Alright, lead the way."As they approached Edwin's house, Charlotte couldn't help but feel a mixture of excitement and apprehension. What could Edwin possibly want to discuss with her?Upon arrival, they found Edwin engrossed in conversation with Sebastian."Dad, I've been planning this business venture for a while now. It's crucial for me," Sebastian insisted, his tone firm.Edwin listened intently before responding, "I understand your enthusiasm, but it's essential to explore all options before making a decision."Just then, Charlotte's presence caught their attention.Sebastian's eyes lit u
"Charlotte, you're more than welcome to stay for dinner. I'd like to have a word with Sebastian," Edwin stated firmly, leaving no room for argument."Of course, Grandpa," Charlotte replied obediently."Johnson, please go upstairs and inform Sebastian that dinner is served," Edwin instructed the butler.As the three of them sat down at the elegant dining table, the atmosphere grew tense with anticipation. Beneath their polite smiles, each harbored suspicions and hidden agendas.Edwin, the discerning patriarch, observed the interplay between his son and Charlotte with keen interest. He sensed there was more to their relationship than met the eye and was determined to uncover the truth."So, Sebastian, what prompted the change of heart about joining us for dinner?" Edwin's tone was casual, but his gaze held a hint of skepticism.Sebastian shrugged casually, feigning innocence. "Just felt like joining you tonight, Dad. Nothing out of the ordinary."Charlotte studied Sebastian closely, not
Monday morning.Charlotte, dressed professionally, walked into the Goliath Group's lobby. Her emotions were a mix of excitement and nervousness as today marked her first day as a newcomer to this prestigious company. She knew that Goliath Group held high standards for its employees, and everyone was eager to prove their worth.As she entered the office building, the atmosphere became lively. Colleagues paused their work, curious about the new face entering their midst. Charlotte felt the weight of their gazes, causing a sense of unease within her."Have you heard? They said there's a recruit coming in today.""Yeah, I heard about it. Not sure who it is, but I heard she's supposed to be Sebastian's secretary.""Wow, that's no easy feat. To be Sebastian's secretary, she must have exceptional abilities.""Yeah, I've heard Goliath Group has high standards. They wouldn't let an unqualified person in easily.""I heard she's Emily Roberts' daughter.""Really? Then she must be even more extra
Reluctantly, Charlotte handed Nathan her lunch and followed Sebastian out of the office, feeling the weight of scrutiny from the women in the secretary's office. Their suspicious and disdainful looks lingered in her mind, reminding her of the uphill battle she faced in gaining acceptance in her new role.Walking beside Sebastian, Charlotte couldn't shake off her apprehension and curiosity about the upcoming lunch. This was the first time Sebastian had extended such an invitation as CEO, and Charlotte couldn't shake the feeling that it held more significance than just a simple meal.As they arrived at the cafeteria downstairs, Charlotte noticed the envious glances from other employees, surprised to see Sebastian dining with his secretary. Ignoring the stares, Charlotte focused on maintaining her composure and professionalism in Sebastian's presence.Sebastian, seemingly unaffected by the attention, led Charlotte to a secluded table and gestured for her to sit down."Please, have a seat
The unexpected display of intimacy between Charlotte and Sebastian at the cafeteria sparked a frenzy of gossip among the employees, particularly in the secretary's office."Did you guys see that? The CEO actually wiped cheese off the new secretary's cheek! Who knew he had that side to him?""I saw it too! I can't believe it. I've been working under him for so long, and I never knew he could be so... gentle, especially with a woman.""I wish I were the new secretary. What's her name again? I wonder what her background is.""I heard Nathan arranged for her to go on a business trip with the CEO n