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Chapter 3

Twenty minutes lates, Annie changed into the gown and put on her makeup before heading for Jessica’s birthday bash.

As she descended the stairs, a man swiftly passed by her. After their brief encounter. Annie tensed up and abruptly halted. Jackson Hudson! What’s he doing here? Did he come for the party? But how did he know Jessica! Considering his personally, he wouldn’t have mingled with… Wait!‘

A realization struck Annie, causing her to knit her brows. “John’s study is at the end of that hallway, and it’s under surveillance. It’s not a common area for visitors. Mr. Hudson, if you need to use the restroom, head downstairs.”

Jackson swiftly turned back and moved closer leaning against the wall with one hand, almos enveloping her in his embrace. A faint but suggestive smile tugged at the corner of his lips. “You know me?”

Annie leaned against the wall, gazing up at Jackson. Never in this life or the other had she seen a man as captivating as him. It was like the creator had bestowed him with all the favoritism–sharp features, a straight nose, lips as delicate as snow–covered flowers. Two buttons of his white shirt. were undone, adding a seductive touch. His charming eyes slightly arched, hiding an unfathomable depth. Though seemingly smiling, there was chilliness in his eyes. He carried an innate air of arrogance that flaunted carelessly, as if he didn’t give a darn about anyone.

Annie didn’t expect him to be still so brazen ten years back. She couldn’t help but snicker, “Mr. Hudson, standing this close might cause some misunderstandings.”

The Zane family was one of the four prominent families in Betrico where there overflowed with aristocracy and lavish households. It was known for ruling the entertainment and service scenes. They had their grip on approximately 20% of the country’s chain hotels, not to mention numerous amusement parks, resorts, and golf estates across the nation. And the crown jewel of their empire had to be the fact that out of just five seven–star hotels worldwide, the Zane family laid claim to

[wo.

Hence, even though Jackson was just a foster child of the Zane family, he was the talk of the city. Moreover, his father had once saved Wayne, the Zane family patriarch’s life, which led Wayne to treat jackson as if he were their own flesh and blood, closer to him than even his biological grandsons.

All these favors had shaped Jackson into an unrestrained playboy who excelled in partying, drinking, and all things leisurely. But only Annie knew that in a few years, he would wield. unimaginable power in the city, almost becoming its uncrowned king.

Jackson couldn’t recall meeting Annie before, but he was skilled at handling strange women who appeared to know him. Gently lifting Annie’s chin, he stated with a hint of drunkenness and. ambiguity. “I didn’t come here for the restroom. I’m here to replace you.”

Annie neither blushed nor flared up, offering a subtle smile. “Mr. Hudson, I bet you don’t event know my name, do you? Are you certain you’ve got the right person?”

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Chapte

Initially, Yolanda had mentioned borrowing them just to try, and Annie, unable to refuse, handed them over. Yer Yolanda made no move to return them. She had been wearing them to every occasion as if they belonged to her. Now, it’s time to get them back. Annie thought.

Yolanda frowned. “The party has already begun. If I give them back to you, what will I wear?”

How about this one? You adored it a lot and reluctantly sold it to me, remember? Annie chuckled. picking up a jewelry box from the vanity. Inside were a pair of earrings adorned with cherry blossom–shaped settings filled with cubic zirconia, giving off a cheap vibe.

Yolanda’s expression shifted instantly. “Who would wear this tacky thing!”

“Tacky?” Annie feigned ignorance. “Didn’t you claim this was the latest design from a top brand and sell it to me for a hefty sum?”

Yolanda was momentarily speechless.

“So, you were pawning off mediocre items as high–end to sell to me?” Annie questioned.

Yolanda felt a bit embarrassed. “How could it be? Of course, this is a great piece! I’m your elder sister, and I wouldn’t harm you!” She had to lie low for now, considering future gains from the gullible and wealthy Annie.

Annie handed over the cherry blossom earrings with a smile. “Why don’t you wear these today. Yolanda? They’ll complement your outfit.”

“Wearing a set of budget earrings? It’d just show my lack of class!‘ Yolanda sensed the veiled implication but bit her tongue. Speaking out now would only confirm her ploy of passing off substandard goods as premium. How could she continue to benefit from Annie then?

Yolanda gritted her teeth. “Actually, I don’t fancy these earrings much. Take them back, and I don’t want the other pair either. Hurry and change into your gown, Annie. Jessica’s birthday party is starting soon. Can’t keep everyone waiting too long. She opted not to argue with Annie but to wait

for her to embarrass herself with the dress.

“Okay,” Annie replied cheerfully. How could she miss Jessica’s birthday celebration? Not only would she be there, but she’d also bring a generous “gift”

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