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Seeing that Charles seemed to be in a better mood, Jack got down to business.
“Crimson Gallery has turned down our request to join. I sent someone to investigate, and it turns out there’s a reckless guy who’s been tearing through the challenges. In just the last two hours, he’s cleared five levels and is still going.”
Charles had previously sent his best special forces operative, a top–tier fighter, who had only managed to clear the fourth level. This newcomer, however, had already cleared five.
Charles narrowed his eyes, “Did you manage to find out who sent him?”
“Could it be someone working for another family in Beloris?”
Jack shook his head. “Crimson Gallery is famous for keeping everything under wraps. We couldn’t get anything out of them. I did have someone ask around though–the guy’s wearing a silver mask, looks pretty young. If he actually makes it through, Crimson Gallery might have to change the rules completely.”
Charles casually propped his head on his hand. He’d never thought anyone could beat that nightmare of a place.
“Jack, if this guy actually clears all the levels, try to win him over. If we can’t, make sure he doesn’t end up teaming up with anyone else,” Charles said.
“You got it, boss. I’ve been keeping tabs on him,” Jack replied.
Meanwhile, word that someone had stormed Crimson Gallery was already making the rounds among every ambitious soul who’d been looking to get their hands on it.
But not every insider even knew the place existed. Only those deep in the heart of power had heard of it.
Thanks to Crimson Gallery’s flawless secrecy, it had become the go–to oasis for the rich–a den of luxury where you could toss aside your identity and become anyone you wanted, or even a complete animal if you wished.
In several study rooms across Beloris, people were getting real–time updates on the situation.
“Two and a half hours, six levels cleared.”
“Seventh level took fifteen minutes.”
“Eighth level took twenty minutes.”
“Mr. Sinclair, he’s already moved on to the ninth level. All eight people he’s defeated have sworn loyalty to
him.”
“Three and a half hours–that’s all it took to blast through ten levels.”
“Starting tonight, Crimson Gallery bows to a single master. All ten sections are his now.”
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More than a hundred calls flew across Beloris, but among the real power players, there was just one command.
“Track down everything about this guy–immediately.”
All the covert operatives hit the streets at once.
But Yolanda had no idea any of this was going on.
Ian’s scene was scheduled for the middle of the night, so Simone, the director, had some free time.
Yolanda showed up at her place and handed over the bracelet.
Simone had already accepted an emerald necklace from Yolanda last time, and now, seeing the pricey bracelet, she raised an eyebrow. “Yolanda, this is seriously expensive.”
“Aunt Simone, I actually wanted to ask you some more advice,” Yolanda said softly, her eyes full of hope.
Simone, never one for pretense, accepted the box with a small smile. “Let me guess, you want me to keep giving lan a few more chances, huh? That boy’s got talent.”
Yolanda nodded, sitting obediently beside her aunt. “You’ve got so many industry connections, and I know you genuinely appreciate Ian. So I’m being a little shameless here, Aunt Simone–do you think you could bring him along when you meet directors or go to fancy events? You know, since I’m married and part of the Grant family, it’s not really appropriate for me to be seen with a man who’s not my husband. So… could this just be our little secret?”
Simone didn’t hesitate to slip the bracelet onto her wrist.
“This is gorgeous–such rich color and clarity. I can see you really put thought into it. I’ll agree to your request, since what I’m doing for you is worth far more than just this piece. So I’m not going to be shy about taking the bracelet,” she said with a smile.
Yolanda let out a quiet breath, genuinely grateful as she thanked her.
Simone slid a glass of water toward her and grinned. “You’re here for Ian, aren’t you? Honestly, that kid’s worth every bit of effort. He’s got the star power–looks, skills, everything. His acting isn’t just good; it’s pure instinct, like he was born for it. Trust me, one day he’s going to snag every major trophy out there.”
Yolanda’s smile widened as she picked up the glass. “When that day comes, I’ll definitely make sure you get a
cut.”
The more Simone watched her, the more she genuinely admired Yolanda. She never got bashful when asking for something, and when it came to giving gifts, she always made it impossible to say no. On top of it all, Yolanda had a knack for saying exactly the right thing at exactly the right time.
‘Wasting her time playing the housewife before–what a loss for all that talent… but hey, better late than never, Simone thought to herself.
Yolanda took a sip of water and, candid as always, began, “I’ve set up a small studio, and soon I’ll be recruiting new talent. What I really came for tonight is to talk over an equity stake with you. Aunt Simone, I promise-
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within three years, I’ll turn this studio into a listed company, and when that day comes, you’ll get twenty percent ownership. But can you keep this all strictly confidential, just between us?”
Twenty percent–that was an incredible gesture of goodwill.
Simone didn’t need the money, but she knew this was the biggest thing Yolanda could put on the table.
With Ian as her ace, Yolanda had a bankable star in hand. One real talent with star power could easily build an entire company.
Yolanda put all her cards on the table, determined to strike a long–term deal–what she wanted in return were Simone’s connections.
Simone, her shoulder–length hair framing her face, didn’t say yes right away. She absently traced the bracelet around her wrist while she weighed her options.
Yolanda waited patiently, letting Simone take all the time she needed.
After a long stretch of silence, Simone finally sighed. “I’ll be honest, I really want in. But twenty percent–are you really okay with handing that much over?”
“I’m just trying to show you I’m sincere. And if Charles starts calling to check up on me, I’d really appreciate it if you could help cover for me,” Yolanda said honestly. “Sometimes I have to be out for a few days because of studio work, but as a married woman in the Grant family, it’s basically forbidden for me to stay overnight anywhere. Having to come up with a new excuse every time is a real hassle. Charles is bound to get suspicious eventually, but if you say it’s work, he’ll buy it without a second thought.”
Simone had always had a soft spot for Charles, but she wasn’t blind–she knew just how unreliable he could be.
After a brief pause, she reached out her hand. “Alright, I’m in.”
“Thanks, Aunt Simone. I’ll ask Mr. Maine to draw up the contract tomorrow,” Yolanda replied, visibly relieved.
“Yoyo, I love that you’ve got so much drive these days. Just don’t put all your hopes in a guy. If he’s not there for you, the rest of your world could come crashing down,” Simone advised softly.
It was her way of giving Yolanda a heads–up–without spelling it out too clearly.
Yolanda nodded, looking all sincere. “I know. That’s why I went to work–to make Charles think I’m doing it for his sake.”
‘Hell no, that’s not the reason,‘ Yolanda thought, but she couldn’t just lay it all out for Simone–especially with Simone being family.
Sure enough, a flicker of sympathy crossed Simone’s face as she gently patted Yolanda’s shoulder.
“You’ve got my word. It’s getting pretty late–go on and get some rest, Yolanda,” Simone said, her voice gentle.
Once Yolanda was in her car, she let out a long breath.
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From now on, no more scrambling for excuses whenever she needed to stay out overnight. With Simone as her shield, Charles would never suspect a thing about Ian–he’d stay completely in the dark.
That was what mattered most.
Simone was totally clueless about Yolanda and Ian’s little secret. She honestly thought Yolanda was just throwing herself into her career, doing it all so Charles would finally sit up and take notice.
Yolanda gripped the steering wheel, her lips quirking into a smirk. ‘Guess I’ve got a real talent for playing with fire behind the scenes,‘ she mused.
Honestly, what married woman wouldn’t be drawn in by Ian? He had that irresistible puppy–dog charm–and could turn on a dime.
As long as he didn’t do anything too outrageous, she was perfectly happy to spoil him rotten and keep him all to herself.
She was more than ready to treat her secret lover like royalty–just as Charles always did with his own favorites.
AD
Sara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland’s breathtaking cold.
Part 1: The Discovery of BetrayalYolanda Grant’s marriage was built on patience, sacrifice, and quiet endurance — but that illusion shattered in one night. It was late when she arrived at a dark, empty alley after receiving a mysterious message with an address. At first, she thought it was a misunderstanding. After all, her husband Charles Sinclair — a man of wealth, power, and refined taste — would never lower himself to something so vulgar. But when she saw him holding a young woman in his arms, kissing and touching her like a man possessed, every ounce of denial drained from her. Charles, the proud and disciplined businessman, was cheating — and in a filthy alleyway, no less.Part 2: The Scene of HumiliationFrom the safety of her car, Yolanda watched as the scene unfolded. The woman clinging to Charles was frail, trembling, and emotional, like a flower blooming in the mud. The surroundings — the stained floor, damp walls, and suffocating darkness — mocked everything Charles had always claimed to be. This wasn’t just infidelity; it was degradation. Yolanda’s mind swirled with disbelief. Her husband, who obsessed over class and perfection, had become a man of impulse and dirt. She didn’t confront him or make a scene; she didn’t even cry. Instead, she leaned back in her seat, numb, realizing that her marriage was already over in spirit.Part 3: Two Years of DevotionAs she sat there, flashes of the past flooded her mind. Two years of marriage — two years of her trying to please him in every way. She had known from the start that Charles didn’t love her. On their wedding day, he had made it painfully clear that his heart already belonged to another woman. Still, Yolanda married him out of hope, out of love, out of the foolish belief that devotion could melt even the coldest heart. She gave up her career, her ambitions, and her independence, just to prove she was worthy of him. She cared for him like a nurse for her patient — cooking his meals, planning his wardrobe, and tending to every detail of his life. And in return, she got nothing but distance and silence.Part 4: The Breaking PointNow, watching him entwined with another woman, everything she had built inside her — the patience, the sacrifice, the illusion — collapsed. The man she had once called her husband had become unrecognizable. He had torn off his noble mask and revealed himself as nothing more than a beast driven by desire. Yolanda felt like she’d been slapped, her dignity shattered into pieces. But instead of screaming or crying, she felt an eerie calm. Her pain was too deep to express. All she could think was: This marriage must end.Part 5: Charles’s UneaseWhile Yolanda drove home, Charles suddenly sensed that something was wrong. The headlights of a passing car illuminated his face, and a chill ran down his spine. He didn’t know whose car it was, but unease stirred in his chest. The girl in his arms whimpered for his attention, but his mind was already elsewhere. Straightening his clothes, he pulled away coldly. “That’s enough for tonight,” he said flatly. “The company’s got big projects. I can’t afford divorce rumors right now.” His words revealed not love, but calculation — every move guided by image and control. The girl, blinded by her feelings, agreed softly, claiming she would wait. But to Charles, it was just another temporary indulgence.Part 6: The Return HomeWhen Yolanda returned home, the villa felt colder than ever. She had just come out of the shower when Charles entered the bedroom, carrying his jacket. He looked as immaculate as always — tall, handsome, commanding — but tonight, his arrogance seemed cruel. On his pristine white shirt, Yolanda noticed a faint smear of pink lip gloss. She had never worn lip gloss; she hated its stickiness. That small, shiny mark told her everything she needed to know. As she dried her hair, she kept her expression neutral, unwilling to give him the satisfaction of seeing her pain.Part 7: The Cold ConversationCharles glanced at her and asked casually, “When did you get back?”“This afternoon,” she replied.He loosened his tie, unbuttoning his shirt as if nothing had happened. “I was out playing golf tonight,” he added. The lie rolled off his tongue effortlessly. Through the reflection in the window, Yolanda saw the dirt on his back — proof that golf wasn’t the only game he’d been playing. With quiet fury, she shot back, “Then I guess you scored plenty of holes. Congrats.”Her sarcasm caught him off guard. For the first time, he frowned, slightly unsettled. He wasn’t used to this tone from her — the woman who once worshiped him now sounded indifferent, almost mocking.Part 8: His Cruel ArroganceInstead of apologizing, Charles smirked and wrapped his arm around her waist. “Are you mad? I told you when we got married that I didn’t love you. If you’re that unhappy, find someone else to cheat with.” His words cut through her like a blade. It wasn’t just betrayal anymore — it was humiliation. He treated her heartbreak as an inconvenience, as if her pain were irrelevant. Inside, Yolanda’s chest felt like it was being strangled with wire, every breath searing. Yet she stayed silent. Her quietness, once a sign of love, now turned into armor.Part 9: The Memory of InnocenceIn that moment, Yolanda’s mind drifted back to when she first met Charles. She was young, freshly adopted into the Grant family, and he was already the picture of perfection — disciplined, confident, untouchable. Back then, she looked at him with admiration and love. To her, he was everything she aspired to be. Never in her wildest dreams did she imagine that this same man would someday make her feel worthless. All those years of love, of marriage, of giving — they now felt like a cruel joke.Part 10: A New Beginning Hidden in the Word “Fine”Charles chuckled when she finally said, “Fine.” To him, it was just another empty threat, another outburst that would fade with time. He kissed her cheek, confident that her love would keep her shackled to him forever. What he didn’t realize was that this time, “Fine” wasn’t surrender — it was goodbye. Behind her calm eyes, Yolanda had already made her decision. The love that once bound her had turned to ash, and from that ash, something new was forming — strength.Chapter 1 ends with Yolanda’s quiet determination to take back her life. She won’t cry or beg anymore. This time, she’ll walk away — not as a broken wife, but as a woman reborn through betrayal.
