Chapter 161
When Kirk went upstairs, he saw no one in the master bedroom. Pinching his forehead, he
realized that making it up to Caroline would be tough this time.
The next day, Gwen rushed to the villa during her lunch break.
“I thought you went home to your family when you shared the address.” Gwen stared at the ma**ive villa in disbelief. “Did Kirk buy this place for real?”
“Why would I lie to you?” Caroline led Gwen upstairs.
“I was worried that you might have spent a fortune on him because you fell for his body and his
looks. But…” Gwen tutted.
“Think about it–if a perfect guy like Kirk was willing to trade his body for money, you’d become upper cla** in no time!”
Kirk’s perfect body flashed across Caroline’s mind, causing her to blush.
“You talk a lot of nonsense nowadays.” She pushed Gwen to the guest room and said, “I’ll get you
the phone.”
Gwen noticed that there was only a new pillow on the bed. She gasped, “Do you sleep in separate,
rooms?”
Caroline showed her the phone. “Do you want this or not?”
Gwen chuckled. “Of course! Let me try it out.”
Caroline handed her the phone. She opened it eagerly and set it up. Then, she asked excitedly,”
Hey, have you slept with Kirk yet?”
Caroline’s face reddened. “Gwen, you shouldn’t waste your talent. Join the paparazzi, perhaps.”
“Just tell me.” Gwen unabashedly inched closer to her friend. “I asked because I care for you.”
Caroline took a bolster and slapped it on Gwen’s shoulder. “Let’s not talk about him. He’s annoying.
“What happened? Did you fight?”
Caroline turned away and grunted reluctantly.
“So, what happened?”
Caroline was unwilling to divulge the details and placed the phone in a bag. “Nothing. It was just a
squabble.”
Gwen didn’t notice the change in Caroline’s expression.
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She followed Caroline to help her out. All of a sudden, her attention was drawn to an exquisite gift
box.
“What’s this?” Gwen picked it up and asked.
“Oh. It’s a gift from Kirk’s childhood friend.”
“Does he have a childhood friend?”
“Yeah. She’s really something.”
“Did you fight over her?” Gwen suddenly conjured an image of a typical bitch, which riled her up immediately.
Caroline took the gift box from Gwen and opened it. “No.”
Gwen wanted to prod more, but Caroline had unwrapped the gift. It was a photo album.
“Why did she give you a photo album?”
Caroline had no idea either. She flipped through the album and saw photos of Avery and Kirk. The photos spanned the years from birth to their teens–throughout Kirk’s adolescence.
In each photo, Avery smiled demurely, like a little wife who was doted on. Kirk, who stood beside
her in the photos, always showed an emotionless face.
They were a pretty girl and a cool boy. They looked like a good match when they were together.
Caroline felt a pang of pain in her heart.
Gwen grabbed the album and threw it into the trashcan. “That childhood friend is pretty bitchy. Ignore her. She did that on purpose.”
Caroline bent over and picked up the album. “I’m fine.”
Gwen felt bad when she saw the expression on Caroline’s face. “Carol, don’t. It’s an eyesore. Just
throw it out.”
“I can’t throw it out.” Caroline smiled. The photos were part of Kirk’s life, which she didn’t want to
miss.
Gwen forced a smile. “Whatever. Let’s drop this topic. I’ll tell you some good news.”
“What’s it about?”
“Have you heard about it? Layla is in jail.”
“I know.” Caroline tried her best to ignore the album in her hand. “Mr. Strauss texted me, saying
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“Yeah! That’s it. I heard she was sick and needed a doctor. After she was sentenced, she cried and
begged Eddy to arrange for doctors and nurses at the prison. If only that would work out. Guess what happened?”
Caroline gave her a quizzical look.
“Mr. Morrison Senior heard about the fuss and ordered Eddy to stay out of the issue. He even
warned Eddy not to waste any resources on Layla unless he wanted to be disowned.”
Gwen added, “It gave me a good laugh! Layla was the greatest joke in Osbury at that time! Too bad
you couldn’t see it for yourself because you were abroad.”
Caroline smiled, but she felt nothing. Her only wish was to steer clear of the Evans Family
“By the way, when are you visiting Mr. Morrison Senior?”
Caroline snapped back to reality. “In two days.”
“That works. You’re going to work tomorrow.” Gwen said, “Have a good rest.”
The thought of going to work made Caroline smile. “Right. I’m going to work.”
She had never worked a day in her life. She looked forward to her new life.
The next morning, she woke up early to wash up and get ready. Half an hour later, she sat across
from Kirk, dressed in a beige skirt suit.
He swallowed hard. This was his first time seeing Caroline in a professional outfit. She had a great figure, and it was accentuated by the tight suit. It was a lovely view for Kirk on such a serene
morning.
He felt an urge rise in him. He asked in a low voice, “Do you need me to drive you to work since it’s
your first day?”
She quietly ate her breakfast and ignored him.
The photo album from Avery had hurt her even more. Even though she knew there was nothing between Kirk and Avery, her emotions overpowered her rationality.
She thought of Avery and Kirk spending their precious teenage years together. The fact that Avery had been there to watch his growth sent Caroline into a dark place.
Suddenly, she was enveloped by Kirk’s shadow. She could smell his familiar scent
Frowning, she was about to speak when he lifted her in his arms. She frantically wrapped her
arms around his neck. “What are you doing?”
He pressed his face against her nose and grinned playfully “You finally spoke to me
Placing her on a countertop, he confessed, “I shouldn’t have said that to you that day.”
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She turned her face aside. Her neck was as graceful as a swan’s. He left some bite marks on her neck, causing her to inhale sharply. She shooed him in a teary voice, “Get away from me! Get away
Kirk always took pride in his self–control. But he lost control of himself at that moment.
Chapter 162
The morning sunlight scattered across the land and cast a golden glow on Kirk and Caroline through the door and windows. They looked like they were in a lovely oil painting.
After a while, Kirk stopped in his tracks and smiled. Then, he entered his bedroom with her in his
arms.
She recovered from the shock and kicked hard to protest. “Kirk, stop fooling around! I need to go to work!”
He took her into the bathroom. “I know. You probably wouldn’t want to go to work looking like this, would you?”
As he spoke, they reached the mirror. She saw her blushing face and the sultry look in her eyes. Embarra**ed, she wanted to dig a hole to hide.
He grinned and placed her in the bathtub. “Take a bath.”
She was reluctant to listen to him, but she had to take a bath to wash away the desire and lust. When she emerged from the bathroom, she changed into a black suit.
He narrowed his eyes at her new look. She stayed a distance from him and announced, “I’m
heading to work.”
Then, she quickly went to the first floor. A car was waiting for her. The driver came out upon seeing her. “Ms. Evans.”
She was taken aback. “Who are you?”
“The company sent me. I’ll pick you up before and after work.”
She wondered, “Does the company offer such a benefit?” She hadn’t been made aware of it.
The driver smiled and opened the car door for her. Seeing that she was close to running late, she
didn’t ask questions and hopped into the car.
Once the car left, Kirk looked away and picked up a call.
“Sir.” Charles reported, “The Collins family is investigating your background. Shall we send them
a warning?”
Kirk played with Caroline’s flowers and plants on the balcony. He said crossly, “No.”
“Got it.” Charles could tell that Kirk was in a pleasant mood. Had he made up with Mrs. Morrison? Charles couldn’t help but marvel at Kirk’s ability to coax her.
After the call, Kirk was about to turn around and leave when the phone rang again. Checking the
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“Uncle Jude.”
Jude Morrison chuckled. “Are you back?”
“Yes.”
“Your dad called me a few days ago. He was satisfied with his daughter–in–law. What now? You’ve introduced her to your dad. Isn’t it time to introduce her to me?”
Kirk curled his fingers and rested them on the railing. “Fine.”
“You can set up a date and time.”
“I’ll leave it to you, Uncle Jude. We’re free most of the time.”
“Great. I’ll call you once I arrange it.
Kirk agreed to it. Jude chatted with him a bit before hanging up. Beside him, Eddy said in excitement, “Grandpa, is Uncle Kirk willing to introduce us to his wife?”
There was an undecipherable look in Jude’s eyes. “Yes.”
“I wonder what she looks like and if she’s easygoing.” Eddy chuckled. “I’m really curious about the woman who conquered a perfect man like Uncle Kirk.”
Jude gave him a side–eye and angrily asked, “Do you know that Caroline’s back?”
The smile froze on Eddy’s face. “Of course.”
“Have you thought about how to win her back?”
“Grandpa, don’t worry about it. She loves me a lot. As long as I promise her, she’ll divorce her
husband in no time.”
Jude scoffed. “Are you that charismatic?”
“Grandpa, you know how much Caroline loves me. Look at her, hiding her husband from everyone. It shows that he’s way beneath me.”
Eddy added, “Women are vain. After she compares him to me, she won’t be able to stand that loser.
Besides, I’m making the first move here.”
Jude frowned in disagreement at Eddy’s confidence. “What if her husband outshines you?”
“That’s impossible!” Eddy sprung up from his seat. “Grandpa, have you come across anyone better than your grandson?”
Frowning, Jude waved his hand. “Whatever.”
He decided to wait until Kirk introduced his wite. He hoped his guess was wrong.
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When Caroline arrived at the office, she frowned at the vast number of rose bouquets there. She asked an a**istant, “Who sent the flowers here?”
The a**istant was a quiet intern and a fresh graduate named Cheryl. She stared at Caroline enviously. “It’s from Mr. Eddy.”
Caroline rubbed her forehead and instructed Cheryl, “Get someone to clear the roses.”
“Why?” Cheryl thought it would be a waste to throw out the huge amount of roses.
“That’s because…” Vivian Patterson smirked when she walked past the office. “Our dear Design Director is married. It would be inappropriate to receive gifts from other men. But…”
Vivian changed the topic and turned to Caroline.
“Caroline, you’re quite something. How did you make your ex miss you even after you got married? No wonder you managed to bag a directorial position without any work experience.”
Cheryl couldn’t take it anymore and retorted with a flushed face, “Vivian, how can you speak to her like that?”
“Is Viv wrong?” Vivian’s best friend and a**istant, Susan, chimed in. “It’s impossible to be appointed director without work experience at most companies. She must have pulled some tricks to get to where she is!”
Caroline stopped Cheryl from arguing. She replied calmly, “I’ll prove my capabilities to you. Everyone knows I landed a designer job at Thorne Corporation through the Novitius Contest. If you spread fake gossip about me, shall I accuse you of hara**ing me? Are you badmouthing me because you think the company’s contest was unfair?”
Caroline had a**ociated Vivian’s accusation with the company’s reputation. Everyone fell silent
for a moment.
After a while, Vivian said with a smirk, “Caroline, you’re pretty good at arguments, but that won’t help you at work. Only your talent matters!”
Caroline smiled. “Right back at you, Vivian!” c
Chapter 163
Vivian clenched her fists After a moment, she sashayed out of the office.
Susan hurriedly followed behind her.
Once they left, Cheryl couldn’t help but look at Caroline. Her eyes were shining. “Ms Evans, you’re
amazing!
Cheryl had only started working here two days ago. Since she was a newbie, Susan had frequently bullied her.
Yesterday, Cheryl had heard the older staff say that Caroline was an inexperienced person. They had also said that Caroline had only gotten the position of Design Director due to her connections with the Morrison family.
Apparently, Vivian would certainly give Caroline lots of trouble too.
Cheryl had felt hopeless thinking about her superior being bullied. When she had come to work today, she’d planned to resign in a few days if things didn’t work out.
Who would have thought Caroline was so unrelenting?
She was also completely different from what the others had said. Caroline didn’t seem like someone who didn’t have working experience.
Caroline smiled a little. “Hurry and get someone to take these roses away.”
“Alright.” Cheryl happily went to get one of the janitorial staff.
Someone quickly came to clean Caroline’s office.
When Caroline walked back inside and saw a necklace on the table, her eyes narrowed.
Eddy had sent it, and there was even a card. It read, “Caroline, I admit that you’re very important to me. Can you come back to my side now?”
Just by reading those words, Caroline could imagine Eddy’s haughtiness.
She threw the card into the bin without a care. Then, she shoved the necklace in her bag. Once
she got to Jude’s place tonight, she would return it to Eddy.
After settling this annoying problem, Caroline called for Cheryl. She took one phone and
rest to Cheryl.
“There are 41 phones here. Give one to everyone in the design department.”
gave the
“But there are 44 people in the design department…” Cheryl realized this belatedly. “Are Ms.
Patterson and Susan not getting any?”
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Caroline nodded in affirmation. Tell them these phones are souvenirs I brought from abroad.
Cheryl walked out with all the phones. Then, she called for the others to come in and get their
gifts.
When everyone heard there were gifts, they all came forward. Even though they knew Vivian wouldn’t like it, they went ahead anyway.
Those who had a good relationship with Vivian couldn’t help but comment snidely, “It won’t be nice gifts. They’re probably cheap!”
Cheryl took out the phones. Someone with sharp eyes saw the logo on the box and said in shock, It’s Dragon!”
“What’s Dragon?”
“It’s a new gaming phone developed by Sarcozia’s largest corporation, SY Group, for gamers. I heard it’s not even available overseas yet. Only business partners with a good relationship with SY Group can get this phone! That’s only a few hundred people!”
“Oh, I remember now. I heard they’re selling it for three thousand dollars each overseas! The pre- orders are already full. It’s just what you might expect from someone as good at doing business as SY Group’s president!”
“It doesn’t look like it to me. Didn’t you say only those with a good relationship with SY Group can get it? How could Caorline possibly know SY Group’s president?”
Not everyone in the country knew that SY Group’s president was Eddy’s second uncle. Even those
in elite circles didn’t know about it.
When Cheryl heard everyone’s discussions, she was so stunned that she couldn’t speak.
She’d originally thought that these were ordinary phones. But as she listened to the others, she
realized just how valuable these phones were.
“I’m pretty sure these are fake Dragons,” Susan said confidently. “Caroline must know how highly
we view Vivian. And she also knows how hard it is to get Dragons. That’s why she’s gotten fakes to
trick us.”
“Yes, they must be fake.”
“What’s fake?”
Vivian had long before noticed the commotion outside her door. Thus, she walked out and asked
about it.
Chapter 164
The person who spoke saw that Vivian had come over and happily walked over to her, acting like e proud puppy. Viv, Caroline bought us take Dragons to get on our good side. What a joke
Vivian had heard about this Dragon thing too Many people around her wanted to get one, but they weren’t available locally. Even overseas, one had to make a pre–order
She huffed softly “Only those who don’t work hard rely on such tricks”
After she said that, Caroline’s office door slowly swung open
Caroline saw that the phones hadn’t been given out and asked Cheryl, “What’s wrong? Does nobody want them?”
Cheryl was so angry that she started crying As the sobbed, she said, “Ms. Evans, they all sad than
these phones are fake
All of these people were just too mean to Caroline
Caroline frowned. She looked over at Vivian and guessed what had happened. She gave a light
laugh “These are gifts. If they don’t want them, I’ll take them back.”
Seeing how calm Caroline was, Cheryl found her own strength. She wiped the tears from her face
“Those who want one, please line up
Many people didn’t make a move because of Vivian’s influence
Noticing this, Caroline said, “Since no one wants them, I’ll take them back.”
It worked out well since she didn’t want to gift them anymore
Right then the door to the office opened
Jules walked in, dressed in a blue suit. He smiled and said, “Why is everyone standing around? Are
you welcoming your new Design Director?
Vivian smiled Her tone was mocking as she said, “No. We’re watching our new Design Director
gift us fake phones‘
Jujes could feel a headache coming on Before Caroline came, he’d called Vivian in to talk with
her. He’d told her to support Caroline since it would be beneficial to her
From what Vivian was saying now, it seemed that she hadn’t taken his words to heart
He smiled to cool things down “How nice of Ms. Evans to bring everyone gifts.
Caroline smiled back. They’re just phones.
$15 BONUS
Caedded Then the data en Sy Haw
* epoke se med de tend to bus office se mu out another phone box and handed it to
Budes Tile bad en spil packaged, the Thas does for you”
“I got nor for Jules we pleasantly surprised. When he accepted it and saw the logo, he was teken shack “Drag
As canetze with a fagh position, he knew post how difficult it was to get a Dragon
“Yes, I hope you like it 1: Hawk”
Jules looked up and then back down at the phone box in the package Both had been printed with
the Dragon logo. He was so stunned that be nearly couldn’t speak
Still, he asked, “Are these sil Dragons?
“Yep
Jules mouth twitched violently. He looked up at Caroline. Was this the affection the older
generation showed to the younger?
The boss really treated his niece–in–law very generously!
Vivian gave a fake smile “You don’t need to be so touched, Mr. Hawkins. It’s fake. You can have as
many as you want
When Jules heard this, he frowned and told Vivian off. “Vivian, enough. These phones are all
genuine How can they be fake?”
Vivian was disdainful “How do you know they’re genuine?”
“Each product has a marking on it to prevent counterfeits. You just have to scan it to find out,”
Jules said “It’s simple. How could you not know about it?”
As he spoke, Jules took his phone out. He scanned the anti–counterfeit marking on the box.
Chapter 165
The results loaded quickly, revealing the phone to be genuine.
When Vivian saw this, her face turned pale.
Everyone else was shocked too. They suddenly felt like they’d suffered a loss.
This phone was being sold for three thousand dollars for pre–orders. It would cost more than ten thousand dollars, at least locally.
They had lost out on something so valuable just because they didn’t dare offend Vivian.
When Cheryl saw how everyone was looking at Vivian viciously, she smiled brightly. “Ms. Evans, I’ll take all these phones back then.”
“Sure, alright.” Caroline nodded.
The others could only watch hatefully as Cheryl took the phones away.
When Jules saw this happening, he couldn’t help but see Caroline in a new light.
It was a decision from higher up to choose Caroline as the Design Director. And this position.
would be hers for life.
Honestly, he had suspected Caroline’s capabilities too. Although she was exceedingly skilled in
design, she had no other work experience.
That was why he had kept nagging Vivian to get along with Caroline. But it seemed that Caroline
was able to deal with Vivian’s troublemaking.
Besides, it was just a phone. And yet, it had successfully dispersed all the power Vivian had.
He had to admit that this was a power move.
Seeing that Jules hadn’t left, Caroline asked, “Is there anything else, Mr. Hawkins?”
“Yes.” As he held the phone, Jules was even more respectful of Caroline. “You reminded me, Ms. Evans. There’s a meeting being held at 2 pm today. Remember to attend it.”
“Okay, sure.”
Caroline nodded and watched Jules leave.
After Jules left, Vivian glared at Caroline from her office door. She turned sharply and slammed
the door shut.
The sound was so loud that the entire design department heard it.
This time, no one dared to watch the show.
12
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as the vaga heels
The then was ready led with people They were sil directors and a**istant directors of vancus departons
Despite everyone looking at her, Caroline sat down calmly
Vivian set to her right he acted as if the dodatkow Caroline
Caroline didn’t mind it. She opened the meeting pamphlet and started reading
Jules was the last person to enter the conference room
“Before we start the meeting, let me introduce our new colleague. She’s the new Design Director,
Caroline Evans”
Caroline stood up and nodded lightly.
Everyone shot her disdainful looks
Caroline could understand it in the workplace, one’s capabilities were one’s most convincing weapon Thus, she maintained her smile She would not be intimidated.
“Alright Next, I have to announce something very important”
As Jules walked to the podium, he was missing his usual friendliness and casualness. He became
stem
“We originally had a contract with a skincare expert renowned for anti–aging work. His name is Corvin French. Once the brands merge successfully, he will help us come up with a brand new
anti–aging eye cream
He continued, “But since the scandal during the Novitius Contest, he’s been in a bad mood and
decided not to work with us anymore.”
Everyone exchanged glances
After the merger, the brands had planned on putting their efforts into producing a shocking line
of products
This way, the new combined brand would gain popularity. Now that the skincare expert didn’t want to partner with them anymore, it wasn’t clear whether they could produce the new products.
“Don’t panic, everyone.” Jules cleared his throat.
*After endless effort by some of the directors and I, Mr. French has changed his mind. He says that if we can design a packaging that can move him, he will cooperate with us!”
Everyone turned to look over at Caroline and Vivian
Chapter 166
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Right then, someone spoke up. “I think Vivian has worked with Mr. French before?”
Vivian smiled happily. “Yes. Three years ago, when I was still a designer overseas, I was lucky enough to design the packaging for Mr. French’s anti–aging face mask.”
“I remember now/I heard Mr. French couldn’t stop praising your design. He even wanted to sign a long–term contract with you. How come that fell through?”
“I had some family issues then, so I had to come back to the country.”
Everyone present seemed to find it a shame.
Then, someone suggested, “Since Vivian has worked with Mr. French before, she should handle this task. Mr. French will surely be happy with the design she produces.”
The others nodded in agreement.
Jules‘ gaze fell on Caroline. “What do you think, Ms. Evans?”
At that moment, the others finally remembered that Caroline was the Design Director.
But it wasn’t their fault for forgetting Caroline. After all, Vivian had skills and experience.
There had to be something wrong with the higher–ups. Why else would they appoint someone without experience as the Design Director?
“Since this is an important matter, I don’t think it should be given to just one person. I think we can get a few other designers to join this project.”
Caroline knew that this was an opportunity for her too.
“Forget it then.” Vivian folded her arms and tilted her chin up. Condescendingly, she said, “Design is a private matter. I prefer doing it alone. If others have to join, I might as well step down.”
Everyone could tell that Vivian was directing her words against Caroline.
“Ms. Evans, Vivian has worked with Mr. French before. Besides, he likes her work. She’s more experienced than us all. I think we should hand the project over to her. What do you think, Mr. Hawkins?”
The man who spoke was the director of the finance department.
Jules rubbed his forehead. He had figured that this would happen before he’d even come here.
“How about this: why don’t Ms. Evans and Ms. Patterson both come up with a design? We’ll see which one Mr. French likes when the time comes. What do you think?”
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Vivon Was the higt to agree that works! I think this is a great idea. It will also show the higher-
ps who has real skills and who’s a fakel
The others hurtedly agreed.
Caroline didn’t mind it either
“Alright then, let’s decide on that Mr French will be leaving Easton in three days. That means you only have three days to design something he likes Are you confident?”
“Of course!” Vivian was sure she could do it.
Caroline nodded slowly as well.
“Alright, meeting adjourned!”
It was only after everyone else left that Vivian got up to walk out.
Susan was already waiting outside. When she saw Vivian come out, she came over with a cup of coffee. She smiled and said, “Viv, I heard about what happened. You’ll win for sure.”
Vivian beamed. “Of course I will.”
Susan replied, “Then does that mean we don’t have to do anything anymore?”
Just as Vivian was about to nod, she recalled Caroline’s designs. She frowned. “Go and change the
company’s internal research records on Corvin French.”
Susan understood immediately. “Should I change it all?”
“No need. Just change what Corvin likes in package design. Change it from what he likes to what
he hates.”
“I got it. I’ll do it right now.” Then, Susan happily went off.
Vivian watched her leave. She leaned against the wall and took a sip of coffee. As she did, she
slowly let out her annoyance.
Now, she would only have to wait and see how Caroline embarra**ed herself.
Chapter 167
Caroline got back to her office and ma**aged her temples.
This was a fight that would allow her to prove herself. She had to do well.
She took a deep breath and turned her computer on. She went to the internal records and searched for Corvin’s information. Then, she downloaded and printed everything.
According to the information, Corvin had unique preferences for the packaging design of his products. He liked bright colors with a bold and avant–garde style.
Caroline clicked on the displayed products and frowned.
She really didn’t understand his taste.
However, this design needed Corvin’s approval. Thus, Caroline had to force herself to keep looking.
Even when working hours ended, Caroline still hadn’t come up with any ideas.
She organized her documents and took Eddy’s necklace from the drawer. Then, she got up to go
downstairs.
Downstairs,many other colleagues were getting off work. When they saw Caroline, they couldn’t
help but give her a few extra looks.
Caroline calmly swiped her card and left. She got into the car that the “company” had arranged for
her.
“It can’t be! She even has a car to take her around? Is she a princess here to experience the real
world?”
“Do you think she could have had this treatment if it hadn’t been for the Morrisons? After all, the
Evans family is ruined.”
“I heard the secret boss of the company is Mr. Eddy’s second uncle. Did he make the contest’s
prize the Design Director position here because of Caroline’s relationship with the Morrison
family?”
“It’s very likely. In any case, someone without skills like her could only have gotten in through
nepotism!”
In the car, Caroline said to the driver, “Mr. Jack, please take me to Morrison Manor.”
The driver was named Jack Hobbs, but he insisted that Caroline call him Jack. Still, since he was
more than ten years older than her, she felt it was better to call him Mr. Jack.
“Alright,” Jack started the car and drove toward Morrison Manor.
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Caroline lowered her head and flipped through Corvin’s information. She continued studying it.
Soon, the car arrived at Morrison Manor.
Jude had known that Caroline would be coming over. Hence, he’d gotten the staff to prepare a rich meal beforehand.
“Grandpa!” Caroline called warmly as she walked in.
“There you are!” Jude was glowing as he pulled Caroline over. “You’re finally here. I missed you so much while you were gone!”
“I missed you too, Grandpa,” Caroline said sweetly, holding onto Jude’s arm. After a while, she brought out some supplements she had specially bought for him. “Grandpa, these are for you.”
“Thank you.” Jude took a look and said, “You’re the best, Carrie.”
For someone with money and power like Jude, there was nothing he didn’t have.
The only thing he lacked was care.
Caroline smiled. Just as she was going to speak, the butler, Simon, walked in.
“Sir, Mr. Eddy is here.”
Caroline’s expression shifted.
Jude didn’t miss this change. He said to Simon, “Let him in.”
After he said that, he told Caroline, “Carrie, we haven’t had dinner together in a long time. Stay and ”
have a meal with me.”
Caroline didn’t plan to stay. “Grandpa, I still have unfinished work, so … I won’t intrude.”
Jude was disappointed. “I see. Is work so busy?” After a pause, he asked inquiringly, “Why don’t you quit the job? I’ll have Eddy arrange an easy job for you.”
Caroline replied, “No need, Grandpa. This is the first job I’ve gotten with my own abilities. I can’t
just give up.”
There was some confusion in Jude’s heart. Had he really misunderstood things?
Was Caroline not related to Kirk at all? And she’d gotten the Design Director position at Thorne
Corporation all on her own?
Chapter 168
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Right then, Eddy’s displeased voice came from the door ‘Grandpa I’m home.”
The next second, he saw Caroline standing next to Jude and froze.
Dressed in office clothes, Caroline had lost her cautious persona She looked like a confident
professional It made it impossible for Eddy to look away from her.
Eddy swallowed. He asked, “When did you get back? 2
Caroline said blandly, “A few days ago”
Then, she turned to Jude “I’m leaving now, Grandpa‘
Since Jude was there, Caroline could only ask Eddy as she walked past him, “Mr. Eddy, could you
step out with me for a second?”
Eddy could just about smell her womanly scent. It made his heart skip a beat. He nodded almost
Instinctively
After he nodded, Eddy regretted it a bit. He quickly said, “Whatever you have to say can be said
here”
Caroline’s eyebrows furrowed She ignored Eddy and walked out.
Eddy thinned his lips. He groaned but followed Caroline anyway.
Seeing this, Jude shook his head helplessly. When would his silly grandson realize that he’d
fallen in love with Caroline?
When he recalled the gathering with Kirk a few days later, Jude’s eyes turned cold.
He hoped that he was overthinking things.
Eddy stopped after following Caroline outside.
“What’s so important that you can only talk about it outside?” Eddy leaned against the doorframe and asked coldly. There was amusement in his eyes.
Caroline took the necklace out of her bag and held it out to Eddy. Then, she took out a stack of money. “I had someone to clean up the roses. This is the money for the flowers.”
The amusement in Eddy’s eyes disappeared. “Caroline, I’ve already given in. And I don’t mind that this will be your second marriage. Shouldn’t you give it a rest?”
Caroline was amused by his words. “Thank you, Mr. Eddy, but I don’t need to.”
With that, Caroline turned around and left.
1/2
+15 BONUS
Indy went up and caught Carotines hand ‘What else do you want? Do you want me to beg before you stop playing hard to get?
He admitted that he’d panicked when Caroline met her husband’s parents
He wanted people to do as they had in the past and think of him when they saw Caroline And not her useless husband‘
Caroline frowned and flung Eddy’s hand off. “I don’t know why you think I’m playing some sort of game I already gave up on you when you asked me to give my kidney to Layla”
Eddy was taken aback. He wanted to hold Caroline again, but he missed her.
The disappointment within him rose Eddy felt pained, and he raised a hand to press against his
heart.
When Caroline got into the car, she rubbed her forehead.
“Ms. Evans?”
“Let’s go home.”
“Alright.”
Jack started the car and drove off.
Caroline slowly calmed down. As she looked at the changing scenery outside, she suddenly felt
like laughing.
Eddy’s acting skills were superb.
For a second, she had really believed that Eddy had fallen for her.
As she mocked herself, the car suddenly shook.
Before Caroline could react, the car sped off faster. It flew like an arrow down the street.
Caroline gripped the seat belt and asked, “Mr. Jack, what’s going on?”
Chapter 169
After taking a few turns, the car finally slowed.
Jack looked in the rearview mirror to check for the car he’d been trying to shake off.
He said expressionlessly, “It seems like there’s a bit of a problem with the car. I’ll take it for a
check tonight. It shouldn’t be anything big. It won’t affect your going in and out, Ms. Evans.”
Caroline frowned. She didn’t quite believe Jack when he said it wasn’t a big problem.
But during the next half of the car ride, the car indeed did not experience any hiccups. Thus,
Caroline didn’t mention it. She told Jack to drive home carefully and walked into the villa.
At the Collins‘ residence, Howard Collins yelled, “Useless! You’re all just useless trash!”
He was so mad that he kicked the bodyguard who’d returned to report.
“What’s the point of paying you? You couldn’t find out who that person was, even though you
spent so much time investigating them! I made you wait at the airport, but you still let them go
right under your nose! I asked you to follow a woman, but she still threw you off! Tell me what
use are you?”
After shouting, Howard fell into a seat on the couch. He huffed in huge breaths.
His fury would really drive him mad.
He’d thought he would find Caroline and her husband in no time.
But after a round of investigations, he’d found out that they’d gone abroad. Once they got back,
they had mysteriously disappeared from the airport.
The worst part was that Howard knew Caroline was working at Thorne Corporation. Yet, he
couldn’t get in there.
Not being able to get in was fine, though. After all, Thorne Corporation belonged to Eddy
Morrison’s second uncle. Howard had to show that man some respect.
But he really wondered whether his bodyguards were of any use at all, considering they had lost
Caroline when they were supposed to follow her.
The bodyguard felt wronged. “Mr. Collins, it’s really not that we’re incompetent. It’s just th–that…
The target’s not so simple.”
“What bullshit! Do you think I’m st* pid? I’m giving you one week. You better find Caroline’s new address and dig her husband out. Otherwise, all of you can get lost!”
Sounding pained, the bodyguard said, “Yes, sir.”
+15 BÔNUS
When Caroline got home, she saw Kirk sitting in the living room, looking at his tablet. Thinking of
what happened this morning, her cheeks burned.
Kirk sensed movement and looked up. “You’re home?”
Caroline walked past him without answering. She went up to the second floor.
Kirk raised an eyebrow.
It seemed that Caroline’s displeasure had yet to dissipate.
He looked outside. The car was still there. Jack stood by the car door and nodded toward him.
Kirk quickly went to Jack with large strides.
“What is it?”
“Sir, there were people following the madam when we were returning.”
“Did she notice it?”
“No.”
“Alright. You’ve done well. Go off then.”
“Yes, sir.”
Jack got into the car, started the engine, and left.
Kirk looked up to find a light on in the guest room on the second floor. He frowned and headed
upstairs to Caroline.
He knocked on the door. “It’s time for dinner.”
Caroline was currently changing. When she heard him, she said coolly, “I’m not eating.”
“It’s not good for you if you don’t eat,” Kirk said in concern.
“I’m not hungry.”
Kirk leaned against the door. Even from there, Kirk could sense the distance Caroline felt toward
him.
Kirk got impatient. “Is it because of me?”
Caroline tugged on her clothes, covering her fair skin. She went to stand by the door. After some hesitation, she finally said, “I have something to do. You should eat first.”
Just as caroline thought Kuk would insist, he said, “Alright, it put the food in the inage when
you’re hungry, just heat them up”
After a second, heavy footsteps faded away at the end of the corridor
Caroline leaned against the door. She closed her eyes tiredly
Downstans, Kirk called Sean Let’s go ou
Chapter 170
Sean wasn’t very excited about it. “I don’t feel like going.”
Kirk didn’t say more to Sean. He hung up and sent Sean an address.
About an hour later, the two met up at the bar.
Sean had reserved a VIP room. When he saw Kirk come in alone, he curled his lip. “Why are you alone?”
Kirk took out a cigar from his cigar box and put it between his teeth. He lit it and sunk lazily into the couch. “Did you expect more people?”
“Caroline didn’t come with you? She had nothing to say about you coming to a bar?”
Kirk’s tone was blank as he smoked and said, “She doesn’t know I’m here.”
“You’re fighting again?”
Kirk flipped open his lighter with a crack. A bright flame lit up his sharp features. He looked down and hummed. It was impossible to tell how he was feeling.
“Why are you fighting?” Sean was curious and scooted closer.
Kirk let out a mouthful of smoke. He didn’t answer Sean and only smiled. “They say men are
heartless creatures after getting what they want. I think women are the same.”
Sean was immediately intrigued. “She used you and discarded you?”
Kirk looked sideways at him and said nothing.
Sean took a sip of his drink and said meaningfully “Who says that isn’t true? Women are all like
that.”
After all, he hadn’t seen Gwen since that last incident.
Kirk’s eyes narrowed. He looked at Sean through the wafting smoke. “Were you used and
discarded too?”
Sean hurriedly took another drink. He stuttered out, “H–how could I p–possibly be used and
discarded?”
Kirk stared at Sean in silence for a long time. Then, he looked away and put out his cigar. He
opened a bottle of beer and threw his head back to finish it.
Quickly after, he finished a second bottle and a third.
Seeing this, Sean swiftly stopped him. “Are you crazy? If you keep drinking like this, do you plan.
+15 BONUS
Kirk shook Sean off forcefully He finished off another bottle.
Kirk had a high alcohol tolerance. He was still alert after all those bottles of beer.
He sniffed himself and found the light scent of alcohol.
Kirk looked up and said to Sean, “Call Carrie.”
“What for?”
“Call her and tell her I got drunk!” Kirk was impatient.
Sean was shocked for a moment, but he quickly understood what Kirk wanted to do..
He laughed. “You’re really a man who’s full of tricks.”
Then, he took out his phone. After a second of hesitation, he walked out of the room to call
Caroline.
Caroline was currently going through the information on Corvin French. When her phone buzzed
on the bedside table, it gave her a fright.
She grabbed it and looked at it, only to see that Sean was calling. She answered the phone.
“Caroline, Kirk got drunk at a bar. Can you come over and pick him up?”
“Just get him an Uber.”
Sean was speechless. Were they really in that big of a fight?
Sean was silent for a moment. Then, he said, “But it’s really secluded here. It’s not easy to get a
ride. Caroline, won’t you just come over? He’s drunk and feeling really bad. He keeps calling your
name.”
Caroline caved. “Alright.”
“Oh, right.” Sean’s voice became low. “I … Um, I also drank a lot. I can’t drive either. Can you call
someone to take me home?” 1
This time, Caroline didn’t hesitate. She agreed immediately.
Joy shot through Sean. He thanked her profusely.
Caroline looked at her dark screen in confusion.
Sean didn’t have to be so grateful, right? All she was doing was getting another person.
t for a drink
Chapter 173
Vivian hadn’t been prepared for this at all. After a long time, she closed her eyes and wiped the
water away.
A second later, she raised her hand to give Caroline a slap.
Caroline caught her wrist and mocked coldly, “Didn’t you say not to make mountains out of
molehills, Ms. Patterson?”
Vivian’s rage was stuck in her throat. She could neither suppress nor express it. It was so frustrating that Vivian wanted to explode. She gnashed her teeth. “Caroline Evans!”
Caroline grinned. She turned and addressed the crowd.
“As long as I’m still in the design department, I won’t allow any bullying. If something like this
happens again, you better resign on your own. Otherwise, I will write a detailed explanation about
it on your dismissal report!”
Once she said that, she shot Cheryl a look. “Let’s go.”
Cheryl looked at Caroline in admiration. It wasn’t until Caroline had walked away that she
snapped out of her trance and followed.
In the office, Cheryl said, “You were so cool just now, Ms. Evans!”
Caroline smiled. “Cheryl, when you encounter issues like this in the future, you must learn to
fight back. Being kind will only mean that people will bully you. It’s the law of the jungle, and you
must be more ruthless than others to survive, got it?”
Cheryl felt like Caroline was glowing. She nodded gratefully. “Alright, Ms. Evans. I’ll remember
what you said.”
“Okay, go outside then.”
Back in Vivian’s office, a long time had pa**ed since Caroline had left. Susan finally gathered her
wits. Closing the door, she went up to Vivian, who was still in shock. “Viv, are you alright?”
Vivian wiped the cold water off her face. “Caroline! Once this competition is over, I’ll definitely
chase her out of Thorne Corporation!”
Susan quickly pulled out several pieces of tissue paper and handed them to Vivian. Still fearful,
she said, “That’s right, Viv. Caroline’s too much. She’s bullying you!”
Vivian’s gaze was stormy. She grabbed the tissues and carelessly dried the water on her face. Her
head was filled with thoughts of using the current project to chase Caroline out of Thorne
Corporation.
An ultimatum?
+15 BONUS
Jules looked at the document Vivian handed him and hurriedly waved his hands. “No, no‘ I can’t
Ganction this
“Why not?” Vivian continued insistently, “If her designs win Mr. French’s interest, I will obey her
without complaint and help her in her work Conversely, if I win, she’ll have to give me the
position of Design Director
“Mr. Hawkins, didn’t you ask me to work with her peacefully? Isn’t this the perfect chance for it? Once Caroline agrees to this arrangement, we’ll both be satisfied with the results when they come
out. Neither of us will make another fuss. This solves a problem for you.
Discord in the design department meant a huge headache for Jules. He was quite moved by
Vivian’s suggestion.
But Caroline had Kirk’s support.
He was afraid…
“Don’t even think about it. Unless. Unless Caroline herself agrees.
“Then you can just ask her about it.”
Jules frowned. “Vivian…”
“Mr. Hawkins, I’ve worked under you for many years. I’ve contributed a lot of effort, if not achievements. It’s just a phone call. Can’t you agree to that?”
Jules sighed helplessly. “Alright.”
He picked up the phone and called Caroline. After a long conversation, he finally brought up Vivian’s ultimatum. He had never expected Caroline to agree to it so swiftly.
Jules was a bit dazed as he held onto the phone.
“What did she say? Did she agree to it?” Vivian asked.
“She did,” Jules mumbled.
Vivian’s expression shifted. She scoffed.
She’d changed the information Caroline had on Corvin French. Thus, there was no way Caroline could produce a design he liked.
No matter what, Caroline was going to lose this competition.
Chapter 174
Even though Caroline agreed to Jules ultimatum, it wasn’t a rash decision. Caroline was simply
confident in herself.
She cleaned up het half–finished design and looked at the time. It was time to get off work again.
Caroline didn’t dally. She went downstairs and clocked out right on time.
At the door, she noticed many people’s eyes on her
She frowned slightly. The way they looked at her was different from yesterday.
Their gazes burned, and it seemed like they were excited for some sort of show.
The next second, Caroline spotted the Ferrari at the entrance.
It was a fiery red, drawing the attention of everyone who saw it.
Something else drew their attention even more. Leaning against the car was a handsome Eddy. He had a chilling air about him.
When he saw Caroline, he took large steps forward His expression never changed.
“I’m here to pick you up from work.”
Caroline didn’t seem to hear his words. She walked past him and went straight toward Jack.
Eddy pulled Caroline to a stop. “Get in the car.”
Caroline lowered her head and looked at the fingers around her wrist. Her eyes turned frosty.
“Mr. Eddy, do take care of your conduct. I’m already married. It’s not good for either of our reputations to act like this in public. My husband would be mad, too.”
“Mad?” Eddy smirked. There was a hint of playfulness in his gaze. “I’m afraid he doesn’t even know the relationship we have, am I right?”
When Caroline heard this, she raised her hand and slapped Eddy.
Eddy had never expected this. Plus, Caroline had put all her might into that slap, too. He was hit so hard that his head turned.
His mind went blank for three whole seconds. When he finally turned back, he glowered at
Caroline.
Caroline’s heart skipped a beat. She only remembered that Eddy was the heir to the Morrison family after she’d slapped him.
Yet she didn’t regret it one bit.
+15 BÔNUS
Please be more respectful. My husband isn’t what you think!”
Eddy gritted his teeth and clamped a hand on Caroline’s throat. His fingers flexed slightly.
Caroline felt suffocated, but her gaze didn’t waver. She kept glaring at Eddy.
Eddy was enraged by the way she glared at him. He gritted his teeth and snarled, “You’re still
protecting him!”
When Jack saw this, he rapidly opened the door and got out of the car.
“Ms. Evans!”
Right then, Eddy finally noticed that there was someone else there.
He looked at the strong–built Jack and then at Caroline, who frantically waved for Jack not to approach. A thought flashed in his mind.
He gripped tighter, unknowingly pressing the artery in Caroline’s neck.
Could this man be Caroline’s husband?
His looks were uncultured and rough. If he wasn’t a cook, then he had to be a driver. How could
Caroline marry such a man?
And Caroline defended him like he was such a treasure, too!
Feeling defeated sent a rush of anger surging through Eddy.
Meanwhile, Caroline was coughing nonstop.
Her breathless coughs finally pulled Eddy out of his thoughts.
He looked at Caroline, her face red and pained. He loosened his hold on Caroline, his hands
shaking as if he had been electrocuted.
Finally getting some fresh air, Caroline supported herself with her hands on her knees. She took
in huge breaths.
When Jack saw this, he hurriedly went up to support Caroline and help her to the car.
He opened the door for her and settled her in the seat. Then, he looked at Eddy, searing his face
into his memory.
After that, Jack drove off.
Chapter 176
Caroline sat opposite Gwen.
The shop owner said, “Um..”
Caroline took out several hundred dollar bills from her bag. “I’m really sorry about bothering you,
sir,
The owner accepted the money and didn’t feel like he could say anything more.
Besides, no other customers were in the shop, and their presence didn’t disturb his rest. Thus, he went behind the cashier’s counter and played with his phone.
“You’re drunk?” Caroline nudged Gwen.
Gwen looked up, acting as if she’d only just spotted Caroline. “Carol, you’re here.”
She looked as she normally did, but Caroline could tell that Gwen was putting on an act.
“What happened?” Caroline asked in concern.
Gwen’s eyes stung. She pouted slightly. “N–nothing.”
She’d seen Sean and some other woman walk into a jewelry store this morning when she’d been
buying breakfast.
Caroline didn’t question her further when she saw that Gwen didn’t want to answer.
She walked past the fridge and took out a few bottles of beer. “Do you want to drink some more?
I’ll drink with you.”
“You’re wonderful, Carol.”
Caroline opened the bottle. It was so cold that wisps of vapor rose from it, shrouding her face.
Caroline poured herself a gla**, then poured one for Gwen.
After a few drinks, Gwen finally opened up.
“Carol, what do you think love is?” She held up her gla** and looked at Caroline through the amber
-liquid
“I have a friend. She and a man … did some things after getting drunk. She thought it was nothing.
After all, they’re both adults. But when she saw him with another woman, she felt bad. Do you
think there’s something wrong with…”
Gwen let out a burp. She said, “This friend–she’s really a friend, not me.”
Caroline smiled and patiently waited for Gwen to finish.
+15 BONUS
Then, berbime dad tien you your trend–does she like this man?
“No, I think?
“If she doesn’t like him, why was she jealous when she saw him with another woman?”
“Jealous “Gwen waves a hand “No, no You’re mistaken. This friend of mine is very open–minded
when it comes to relationships. There’s no way she’s jealous”
Caroline smiled and took a sip of beer. “Even if someone’s open–minded, they will still get jealous when it comes to someone they like If they don’t, that means they don’t care.”
Gwen couldn’t help but feel stunned at her words She stopped Caroline from drinking further.
Caroline thought about the gift Avery had given her. Even though she knew it was something Avery had done intentionally, she still couldn’t get over it.
All of this was because she cared
Her gla** swayed, and icy liquid splashed on her fingertips. Caroline snapped out of her thoughts and looked at the quiet Gwen.
“Gwen?”
Gwen answered incoherently Right then, she finally came back to her senses and looked at Caroline.
Caroline said, “Gwen, if you–your friend really likes this man, there’s no harm in trying.”
Gwen’s heart was racing wildly. After a moment, she took a sip of beer.
“Alright, let’s not talk about my friend anymore. Let’s talk about you and Kirk. How are things? Have you guys made up?”
Caroline drank a mouthful of beer and answered frankly, “No.”
“And it’s all because of that bitch’s photos? If you really feel bad, you should dump it!”
Caroline shook her head. “It has to do with the photos, but also not. I’m only afraid
“Afraid? Afraid of what?”
Caroline pressed her lips together. After a long while, she said bitterly, “Have you seen the kind of news where the husband is a murderer and the wife only finds out when the police come knocking?”
Gwen sobered in an instant. “Kirk…”
Betrayed by her fiancé, Caroline Evans decides on a whim to marry someone else. Everyone mocks her for the decision of giving up on the heir to the Morrison family and choosing some poor punk instead. However, that poor punk is actually secretly the top wealthiest person around, newly back in the country to invest in its development. He’s also her ex’s uncle! Lamenting about being tricked, Caroline Evans insists on a divorce. But her husband corners her and says unblinkingly, “That billionaire is not me. That guy had cosmetic surgery to look like me.” Looking at his handsome face, Caroline believes it. “What a curse to have the same face as someone of the Morrison family!” The next day, the world is surprised to find that the heir of the Morrison family has been kicked out and now has nothing. As for the newly crowned top billionaire, he starts wearing a mask to hide his attractive features.
