Chapter 8
Olivia was just about to open her free clinic when her phone buzzed relentlessly, one notification after another flooding in.
[Boss, are we seriously backing out of the Shea family deal? That’s millions down the drain!]
[Hey, you didn’t come today? Everything’s set up for you.]
[Got a lead on that intel you wanted. When can you swing by to check it out?]
Annoyed, she fired off a quick reply: [I was there. Security turned me away.]
On the other end, Lucas Grant nearly dropped his controller mid–game. His boss, the one he’d fought tooth and nail to recruit, blocked by some rent–a–cop? [That’s on me, Boss! I’m on my way. Also, there’s a charity thing later…]
Olivia wiped her hands clean, cutting him off. [Not interested. I don’t work with people who only care about profit.]
Lucas knew better than to push. One wrong move, and she’d boot him from the group without a second thought.
“But Boss, you need to be there tonight,” he typed frantically, pacing his apartment. “Word is, NecroFlora Labs is making an appearance.”
Her fingers stilled. A flicker of irritation crossed her face. So much for the free clinic. “Sorry, everyone,” she announced to the waiting crowd. “Emergency came up. We’ll have to reschedule.”
The neighbors didn’t mind. They adored her–even when plans changed last minute, no one held it against her.
“No problem. We can wait,” Helen said, thumping her chest with a grin. “Next time.”
“Go handle your business. Holler if you need backup,” Stanley chimed in, easygoing as ever.
Olivia had built a reputation in Hillarica–top–notch care, no fees, no questions asked. People traveled from all over just to see her. Locals, out–of–towners, even folks from the rougher parts of the city trusted her.
With a quick thanks, she didn’t linger. There was research to dig into and gear to pack.
Hillarica was the nation’s largest charity hub, home to a renowned orphanage. Its annual gala was a world–famous event, attracting wealthy families from all over. Rumor had it that the organization had a powerful backer–someone so influential that even high- ranking officials from Kingtonelle knew better than to cause trouble here.
As night fell, Olivia arrived at the charity event right on time. This time, no one stopped her. She wasn’t dressed for the occasion, wearing just her usual puffer jacket and carrying a small bag slung over her shoulder.
Walking straight to the VIP entrance, she flashed the guard her phone with the verification code.
The guard stiffened in surprise. “Oh! You’re Welcome, we’ve been expecting-
Before he could finish. Olivia shoved a candy into his mouth and muttered, “Keep it down. I’m just here to find someone.”
The guard nodded eagerly. “Understood Your identity stays confidential. I’ll notify Mr. White right away.”
Ignoring him, Olivia strode inside, following the trail to her target.
Meanwhile, in the VIP lounge, Nathan Evans, son of the powerful Henry Evans, was finalizing the adoption of his new goddaughter Despite the unpleasant encounter with Olivia earlier, Cheryl was the perfect choice. The papers were signed, and the ceremony was underway
Standing nearby, Margaret beamed with pride. “Cheryl sweetheart come meet your new godfather and grandpa.”
Obediently, Cheryl smiled. “Thank you for accepting me. I’m so happy to have your support”
Henry and Nathan exchanged satisfied smiles.
Nathan squeezed Cheryl’s hand with a chuckle. “Now that you’re officially my goddaughter, any hospital in Hillarica is yours to choose from Just say the word”
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12:19 PM P.
Chapter 8
William and Margaret shared a knowing glance–their plan had worked perfectly. With the Evans family’s backing, Cheryl’s future was
set.
Glasses clinked in celebration.
Olivia moved through the auction hall, scanning the crowd for any sign of trouble. NecroFlora Labs had stayed off the radar for years- only recently had whispers of their activity surfaced. She couldn’t afford to overlook even the smallest clue.
Meanwhile, Elena Sherman stood near the center of the room, radiant in a light purple strapless gown that complemented her skin. Her poised smile drew admiring glances from more than a few gentlemen.
“Ms. Elena Sherman, are you here to meet Mr. Simon Evans?” someone asked.
“Oh, she must be here for Mr. Beau White,” another chimed in. “Everyone knows she’s Hillarica’s leading philanthropist. Mr. White practically worships her–she’ll probably take over the WorldAid Charity Foundation soon.”
Elena gave a modest smile. “That’s too kind. Charity work is simply my calling. As for Mr. White… we’re just friends.”
Just then, Cheryl glided over, her makeup flawless, her tone sweet. “Elena, don’t be so humble. Mr. White’s a legend in Hillarica. Most people can’t even get an audience with him. Only you have that privilege.”
The two had been inseparable for years, until a DNA test revealed they were actually cousins: Cheryl’s true background remained a mystery, but she played the role of devoted relative perfectly, always nudging Elena to publicly acknowledge their connection.
“And who is this stunning lady?” a guest asked, eyeing Cheryl.
“Yes, may I know her name?” another chimed in.
Elena forced a smile. “This is my cousin, Cheryl. We only recently reunited, so she’s still new to the scene.”
Cheryl tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, demure and charming. “It’s lovely to meet you all.”
Instantly, the men flocked to her, drawn by her gentle demeanor.
Elena, suddenly sidelined, clenched her jaw in irritation. Then her gaze landed on Olivia, who stood in the VIP section, no less.
Her face burned with anger. This gala’s exclusive, accessible only through serious connections or deep pockets. Even I had pulled strings to get in. How the hell did that fraud Olivia waltz in like she belongs? And Simon’s over there!”
“Olivia!” The name tore from Elena’s throat before she could stop herself, her shrill voice cutting through the hum of conversation.
The entire room froze, heads swiveling toward the commotion.
Cheryl, mid–conversation with an admirer, startled at the outburst. Following Elena’s glare, her eyes widened when they landed on Olivia.
Cheryl caught Elena’s arm, attempting damage control. With practiced sweetness, she addressed Olivia, “How… unexpected to see you here.”
The whispers started immediately. Several guests recognized that Olivia was the student the Sherman family had grudgingly supported. Now they eyed her like something unpleasant tracked in on a shoe
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