Chapter 1

The Roscente Group headquarters stood tall in the city skyline.

Ethan Roscente strode into the boardroom with measured steps, his leather shoes clicking sharply against the marble floor. The chatter inside ceased instantly.

Victor Roscente shot up from his seat, face dark with anger. "Weren't you negotiating the Paris project?"

Ethan loosened his tie with one hand, the other tucked casually in his trouser pocket. "How could I miss such an urgent board meeting called by my dear uncle?"

"The domestic operations are under my jurisdiction!" Victor slammed both palms on the conference table. "You've been expanding overseas for years. What gives you the right—"

"Fifty-one percent shareholding." Ethan's gaze turned razor-sharp. "Uncle seems to have forgotten who saved Roscente from bankruptcy."

The room fell deathly silent. Victor's face cycled through shades of pale and purple as the humiliating memory resurfaced.

Ethan turned toward the exit. "You're welcome to take Roscente back anytime... if you're capable."

In the CEO's office, Simon Eisner waited with a tablet. "Sir, we've compiled Vivian Laurent's profile. Medical school graduate. Nathan Clementson recommended her for the hospital position."

Ethan's finger paused on the screen. "Nathan... Dr. Luna's senior?"

"Another development." Simon lowered his voice. "Bidding has started for the West District land. Among the competitors is a new firm called Triple Six Realty."

......

Hospital corridors buzzed with activity as Vivian walked alongside Nathan.

"Master asked about you last month." She waved a medical chart playfully. "Still not reconsidering inheriting his practice?"

Nathan chuckled. "I'm content where I am. Dinner at your place tonight?"

"Perfect. Lucas is cooking."

The evening air carried savory aromas through the apartment. Lucas Lefèvre moved deftly in the kitchen while Isabella Langley discussed new designs with the twins, Amy and Erin.

"Boss!" Erin bounded over with a wineglass. "My jewelry studio needs reinforcements!"

Isabella shoved a tablet into Vivian's hands. "I'm taking leave. Triple Six Realty is yours now. Win that West District bid."

The Roscente Group logo flashed across the screen. Vivian's fingers drummed lightly against the table, a smirk playing on her lips.

"How intriguing." Her eyes gleamed. "My ex-husband's company?"