Chapter 157
Cassie stepped into the massive hall with frer hand resting lightly on Zandrie’s arm.
For a fleeting second, the sheer grandeur of it stole her breath.
Crystal chandeliers cascaded from the vaulted ceiling like frozen waterfalls, scattering golden light across marble floors polished to a mirror–like sheen.
From the mezzanine, a string quartet played a refined, haunting melody that drifted through the air, weaving seamlessly with the low murmur of the city’s most powerful figures gathered beneath one roof.
Silk gowns shimmered like moving constellations. Tailored suits cut sharp silhouettes through the crowd. Diamonds caught the light. Champagne glasses clinked. Every corner of the hall whispered wealth, influence, and power.
And at the center of it all was one name.
Ashton Pierce.
The elusive CEO of Bay City had summoned the elite under the pretense of a celebration–no details, no hints, only an invitation sealed with the unmistakable Pierce insignia.
The embossed crest alone had been enough to guarantee attendance. No one declined a Pierce invitation.
“I can’t recall any significant occasion today. Why would CEO Pierce host such a huge gathering?” one businessman murmured behind them.
“Could there be another merger for the Pierce Corporation? Or perhaps a political alliance with some foreign conglomerate?” another speculated.
“There must be something monumental behind this grand display,” a woman added, adjusting the emerald necklace at her throat.
Speculation had spread like wildfire. The city thrived on rumors, and tonight it feasted on them.
Cassie swept her gaze across the unsuspecting guests, amusement flickering in her eyes. They stood in clusters, whispering theories with such confidence.
“Mr. Lover Boy is impressive. Such a show–off,” Zandrie leaned closer, his lips near her ear, his tone laced with playful teasing. Cassie’s lips curved slightly. “Well… he has every reason to be,” she whispered back, her voice soft yet brimming with a pride she did not bother to conceal.
Because she knew. Ashton had not orchestrated this for business. Not for power. Not for influence. He had done this for their
Γ
son.
Tonight, Bay City would finally meet Kai.
Ashton Pierce’s sole heir.
The thought sent a strange warmth through her chest, mingled with nerves she refused to acknowledge.
Her heels echoed against the marble as she walked further inside, aware of curious glances trailing her. Cassie Greene never entered a room unnoticed. She kept her chin high, her expression poised and unreadable, though her pulse drummed wildly beneath her calm exterior.
This was Ashton’s stage–his arena. Every detail had been meticulously curated. Every floral arrangement perfectly placed. Every guest strategically chosen. Even the timing of the music felt deliberate.
Security was tighter than usual; discreet men in black suits stood near every entrance, earpieces glinting under the lights. The air itself felt charged, thick with anticipation, as if the entire city held its breath.
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Asubtle ripple of movement stirred the crowd near the champagne tower, drawing Cassie and Zandrie’s attention.
“If Ashton would finally decide to settle down, there would be no better choice than you, Tanya,” an elegantly dressed woman declared, her voice just Toud enough to attract surrounding ears.
Zandrie’s grip on Cassie’s arm tightened slightly.
They turned to each other at the same time, brows arching in silent understanding
“I will make sure Ashton notices you,” the woman continued confidently.
“He’s turning thirty–five soon. It’s about time that dear cousin of mine settles down and produces heirs.”
Several women within the circle nodded in agreement, their expressions eager, calculating.
“That’s right, Tanya,” an older woman chimed in–draped in pearls and authority. If Cassie remembered correctly, she was Ashton’s aunt.
“Among the prominent single women in Bay City, you are the most suitable for him. Madame Carina is also quite fond of you. There will be no obstacles. The family supports you.”
The words made Cassie’s lips twitched, the faintest crack in her otherwise flawless composure.
A sharp, unsettling sensation carved through her chest–quick and unexpected, like a blade she hadn’t seen coming.
For a fraction of a second, her breath faltered. But just as quickly, she smoothed it away.
Her chin lifted. Her fingers relaxed against Zandrie’s arm. The emotion was buried beneath layers of practiced elegance and unshakable pride.
“I know Ashton just needs a little push,” the younger woman added excitedly.
“He’s too busy with the company that he’s forgotten to have a love life. It’s about time you make your move.”
Tanya lowered her gaze modestly, though the faint blush on her cheeks did little to hide the ambition gleaming in her eyes.
Zandrie leaned slightly toward Cassie again. “Should I be worried?” he murmured, amusement dancing in his voice.
Cassie’s gaze shifted toward the grand staircase instinctively–toward where she knew Ashton would eventually appear. Her expression remained serene.
“Let them have their little hope,” Cassie said lightly, punctuating it with a playful wink–though it took more effort than she cared to admit to steady her voice.
୮
She allowed herself a discreet glance toward Tanya Shen.
The woman was undeniably stunning. Porcelain skin, delicate features, a figure wrapped elegantly in a crimson silk gown that hugged her gorgeous figure. Tanya carried herself with cultivated grace–the kind bred from old money and careful upbringing.
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Cedella is a passionate storyteller known for her bold romantic and spicy novels that keep readers hooked from the very first chapter. With a flair for crafting emotionally intense plots and unforgettable characters, she blends love, desire, and drama into every story she writes. Cedella’s storytelling style is immersive and addictive—perfect for fans of heated romances and heart-pounding twists.

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