Ch. 21..30
Can't Win Me Back Chapter 21-“I’d never fall for the same trap twice!” Alyssa thought determinedly.
At that moment, she got messages from the “Taylor Family’s Secret Society.” Jonah: “Lyse, remember how they exposed the dirt on you yesterday? They’ve been deleted now, including the accounts. Jasper did it.” Alyssa: “Wow, I’m so grateful to him.” Axel: “What? Does he think everything’s settled just because they’ve been deleted? Naive.” Liam: “Too bad the Beckett Group’s stock price only had a small effect this morning.” Silas: “Lyse, even if we can’t do anything to him right now, we should teach the Gardners a lesson.” Alyssa: “That’s for sure. I hold grudges, and they must pay.
Alyssa called Sean. “Sean, spare me a moment.” Sean entered the office promptly. “You called for me, Ms. Alyssa?” “Have you prepared the materials and evidence as I told you?” Alyssatwirled in her seat with her arms on the armrest.
“Yes, I have everything ready to hand them over to the related department whenever you want.
“No, there’s no need for the rush.” The sunlight cast a sheen over Alyssa as she crossed her leg.
“Reach out to the media we have connections with, like Belbanks Media. Give them a hint of what’s going on, but not all the details. We’ll decide our next step after drawing some attention” Sean questioned her choice, “Getting the media involved could complicate things. Why not catch the Gardner Group off–guard? Wouldn’t that be better?” “I have a certain way of doing things. I don’t go for the kill right away. I prefer to crush and torment my prey slowly, letting it bleed out,” Alyssa explained.
She stroked the crystal bracelet her grandfather had given her. Her gaze displayed brutality and— coldness.
Most importantly, the Gardner Group would face difficulties after she revealed the incident.
The Gardners‘ father and son weren’t in the position to speak to her. Hence, Liana had only one way out. She must beg Jasper to save her family.
“Jasper Beckett, I can’t wait to see you getting anxious about your fiancée’s problem.” During the night when many users were online, a searing exposé was unleashed. It quickly spread online within an hour.
“Breaking News! KS Group Terminates Contract With Gardner Group Due to Serious Quality Problem!” “Cutting Corners? Using Inferior Materials? Gardner Group’s Elysian Home Presents Substandard Products.” The Gardners were completely caught off–guard by the sudden revelation.
Their weak Public Relations Department proved ineffective. They struggled to control the comment section.
They couldn’t delete the negative comments.
“Gardner Group? Isn’t that Jasper’s second fiancée? I can’t believe they let this happen right before the wedding. Are they trying to set the Becketts up?” “I thought he found someone rich. She’s just someone selling furniture, an underhanded seller at that!” “I know it’s not her fault. It was her family, but I’m kinda disappointed.” “Oh, shit! The new furniture I just ordered is from Elysian Home. I have to return them. What bad luck!” As Xavier reported the bad news in the study, Jasper felt a headache coming on.
“The Taylor Group holds the prestigious position as the Wibez’s VIP. They lead the way in various industries, standing atop the pyramid. If the Taylor Group chooses to take action against the Gardner Group, other companies will have no choice but to follow suit.” Xavier’s lips twitched at the corner. There was no empathy in his eyes.
He appeared rather interested in watching how the show would unfold.
“Experts predict the stock price will hit rock bottom tomorrow morning.
Fortunately for Gardner Group, it is not a publicly listed company.” Xavier finished his report.
“Your grandfather has high blood pressure. I’m afraid he might be infuriated by the news…” Jasper shot him a glare. Xavier stuck out his tongue and kept his mouth shut after.
“It’s just an accusation. There’s no evidence. It might be a baseless rumor.” Jasper sighed heavily. ” What about the quality problem? Where did that come from?” “I heard the KS World Hotel has a newly appointed female general manager.
She took the lead to end all collaboration with Gardner Group. Within a week, all hotels working with KS canceled their contract with Gardner Group.” “How can a mere general manager have so much power?” “Because she’s Mr. Taylor’s daughter–Alyssa Taylor.” The glint in Jasper’s eyes darkened at the mention of the name. It was a stranger’s name, but it somehow sounded familiar to him.
Can't Win Me Back Chapter 22-Jasper kneaded his brows and muttered, “Alyssa Taylor … I feel like I’ve heard the name before.” “I’ve researched more about Ms. Alyssa,” Xavier said.
Jasper’s eyes lit up. He was pleased that the usually slow secretary was finally one step ahead of him at doing things.
“Tell me what you found.” “In the end, I found nothing.” Xavier’s shoulders drooped, and he spread his hands.
Jasper said, “Xavier, I believe you can get your early salary payment from the HR department.” He seemed calm.
“Calm down, Mr. Beckett! It’s not that I didn’t investigate, but finding info on Ms.
Alyssa is like searching for a top–secret file. It’s just not available, so there’s not much I can do.‘ Xavier felt scared. He wiped off his sweat nervously.
Xavier continued, “Don’t you think that it’s strange? She’s Mr. Taylor’s first wife’s only daughter, but I can’t find any information about her online. I even searched through all social media platforms. Yet, I still got nothing! I wonder if she lives in the mountains.” “Do you have her picture? Let me see “I do. I barely found it.” Xavier showed Jasper the picture on his phone.
As soon as Jasper saw the picture, he became angry. “Xavier Hall! Do you have a death wish?” Ignoring how blurry the picture was, the girl in Winston’s arms appeared to be no older than five years old. Jasper couldn’t recognize the face at all!
“Calm down, Mr. Beckett! This is the only picture of her online. It was taken at Mrs. Taylor’s funeral 20 years ago …” Xavier thought his boss was about to explode.
He decided he should carry some heart attack medicine with him next time.
If the picture was taken 20 years ago, that would make Alyssa about 25 years old, which was around the same age as Alice.
Jasper stared at the picture. The more he looked at it, the deeper his frown became. Somehow, he felt that the girl in the picture resembled Alice.
“Darn it! We’re divorced. Why do I keep thinking about my ex–wife? Since when am I such a scumbag?” he scolded himself silently.
Just then, a maid’s voice resounded from the door. “Mr. Jasper, Mr. Javier is calling for you. He wants to talk to you about something.” Sophia was crying in Javier’s arms in the living room.
Despite being in her 40s, she cried and whined in her husband’s embrace without caring about anything else.
“Javier … Oh, my poor sister. She married a nice guy and was finally having her good days. And then this incident happened… She called me last night, crying and saying she couldn’t face me. She didn’t want to bring disgrace to the Beckett family…” “How is this a humiliation? We’re going to be a family soon. Don’t be such a stranger.” Javier gently caressed her shoulder and spoke in a soothing tone. “Once Jasper is here, we’ll figure something out.” Whining and acting weak was how Sophia drove Jasper’s mother away. That was how she came to secure the title of the lady of the house. She had Javier wrapped around her fingers. He was drawn to this kind of woman.
“Dad, did you call for me?” Jasper approached them emotionlessly.
“Jasper, you have to save Lia and her family!” Liana wiped the tears off with a handkerchief. “Andrew and Lia are in bad health. She’s lost her appetite ever since the matter happened. If you truly care for her, you have to come up with something quickly!”
Can't Win Me Back Chapter 23-“Jasper, have you looked into the matter? What’s happening?” asked Javier while comforting Sophia.
“The culprit is Alyssa Taylor, the newly appointed general manager of KS Group.” Jasper dropped his gaze to the ground. He didn’t want to see the affectionate scene between Javier and Sophia.
Javier had never treated him and his mother well when he was younger. Jasper suspected that Javier had long forgotten what his mother looked like.
“KS Group them?” … The Taylors in Belbanks?” gasped Sophia. She covered her mouth. “That’s the richest family in Belbanks! How did Lia offend “Our families have been on bad terms due to past issues between our ancestors. Their great–grandmother even swore not to have a marriage alliance with our family. Anyone who goes against that rule must cut ties with the family.” Jasper was unbothered by that. His fiancée was Liana, not anyone from the Taylor family.
However, those words still affected him, and he felt a surge of coldness.
“Geez! I bet the Taylors are trying to suppress the Gardner Group because Jasper is marrying Liana. They’re attempting to bring us down indirectly. They’re so malicious!” Sophia wrung her handkerchief.
“Jasper, meet up with Ms. Alyssa tomorrow. Persuade her to stop attacking Gardner Group. It’s not just the Gardners‘ problem. It’s about our family’s pride too.” Javier sounded stern.
“What’s with the serious tone, Javier? Jasper is a good son. He just needs a little guidance on what to do,” she said softly while massaging Javier’s shoulders.
“I’m saving Gardner Group solely for Lia. Nothing else, Aunt Sophia.” Jasper’s eyes were dark.
As soon as he finished, he turned and left. Sophia was so angry that her face paled.
“I’m Javier’s wife, but he’s still addressing me as ‘aunt!‘ I hate it!” she thought.
“Stop right there! Why are you addressing her that way? Sophie is my wife and your mother. Behave,” huffed the standing Javier.
Jasper stopped in his tracks, but he did not turn around.
“One can have several wives, but there’s only one mother. You know that very well. Don’t make things difficult for me.” Jonah visited Alyssa in Solana City. Michael and Gardner Group were mentioned during dinner.
Jonah said, “Dad already knew your plan. He only said we shouldn’t let them get away that easily if we have proof it’s true.” Jonah helped Alyssa to cut the steak.
“Dad is a scumbag to women but a wise man in other areas,” Alyssa replied.
She savored a piece of meat.
“That’s why our mothers love him to death. Aside from his womanizer side, he treats his wives well.” “You’re right. Only the new ones are able to smile. Outsiders never know the abandoned one is crying.” Alyssa lowered her gaze and stabbed into the meat.
Jonah noticed her reddened eyes and felt upset. He stroked her head.
“I know you no longer resent the three mothers. You just can’t let go of the past.
You feel it’s unfair for our mother. But, Lyse, have you ever considered that Mom might have long let the past go?” “How could she not resent him? She’s just putting up with it. Can anyone accept their spouse loving others at the same time? There are so many…” Alyssa drew a sharp breath and stopped midway through her words.
She was in the same situation. She knew Jasper still missed his first love, yet she was blinded by love.
1/2 Winston was a womanizer, but he cared for his women.
But what about Jasper?
He couldn’t look her in the eyes and even stabbed her in the back! He also took her goodwill as bad intentions!
She found it ridiculous to have loved such a man for 13 years.
“Jasper has been quiet these two days. He didn’t call me,” Jonah said, sipping his red wine slowly.
Alyssa scoffed. “I’m sure he’s busy cleaning up the mess for his first love. He won’t even have time to think about me.” She swirled her wine glass as a glint of coldness flashed across her eyes.
“Alice is too weak. This time, I will confront him as Alyssa Taylor.
Can't Win Me Back Chapter 24-The next morning. Jasper dressed himself neatly. He appeared more dependable and sophisticated in his suit. He was going to KS World Hotel in the best state possible.
Upon entering the lobby, he felt relaxed. Last year, he had visited the place and criticized it for being shabby and in need of many touchups.
However, now it seemed like a whole new place. It was on par with five–star hotels.
The new general manager seemed capable. Jasper belleved he shouldn’t underestimate her.
“This is the president of Beckett Group. Please relay the message that he would like to meet with Ms. Alyssa,” Xavier said.
Xavier faced many hurdles to reach Alyssa’s administrative secretary, Avery, “I’m sorry, but it’s impossible without an appointment.” Avery was being polite.
“The president of Beckett Group needs an appointment too?” Xavier’s brows furrowed.
“Why not?” “You!” His face turned red with anger. He desperately wanted to file a complaint.
“I’ll make an appointment now. When can I meet her?” Jasper stepped forward and asked.
“Ms. Alyssa is very busy. I can’t give an actual date. Why don’t you come here again tomorrow?” Avery replied.
“You!” Even Xavier, who was usually patient, couldn’t stand that.
“Enough, Xavier. Proceed with making an appointment first,” Jasper said. He pulled Xavier away as his expression was grim. After all, it would be unbecoming to throw a tantrum, nor would it solve any problems.
They returned to the car. Gritting his teeth, Xavier slammed the window.
“That’s bullying! This is Solana City, not Belbanks. I wonder if Alyssa knows the consequences of offending you,” Xavier said.
“Let’s come again tomorrow.” Jasper furrowed his brows and leaned back in his seat, shutting his eyes.
“Didn’t you hear what that woman said? I bet we won’t be able to meet her tomorrow either.” “Then we can come again the day after. I must meet her at all costs,” Jasper stated.
Jasper loosened his tie as he felt suffocated. “Gardner Group can’t afford to wait longer. They might announce bankruptcy if we drag out.” On the second day, Jasper arrived at the hotel early in the morning. As Xavier had expected, they didn’t get to meet Alyssa.
On the third day, it was unsurprisingly a failure too.
Being one of the top ten youngsters in the country, Jasper was a renowned figure in the business world.
Previously, he had gone overseas with the prime minister for an interview, receiving the best treatment.
His name alone was enough to scare people.
However, Alyssa was not bothered by his status at all. She stood up to him without courtesy.
“Damn it!” he thought.
It was drizzling today. Alyssa went to work in a good mood.
Her steps were steady and confident despite the high heels. She donned a black suit dress and a pair of golden rose earrings, which was the highlight of her outfit.
“Gosh! Ms. Alyssa looks stunning! I can’t help but fall for her.” 1/2 +15 BONOS just by seeing her face.” “I don’t think anyone would dare to object if we called her a Goddess, right?” After the incident involving Michael, every hotel staff showed her full respect.
None of the departments dared to slack off. They all aimed for improvement and perfection.
It took Alyssa less than two weeks to turn the gloomy atmosphere into a productive one.
She prioritized resolving internal issues before dealing with the external mess.
This approach would enable them to compete effectively with others and move forward.
“The Beckett Group transferred a huge sum of money to Gardner Group. Due to the controversy, Gardner Group has lost almost all of its sales. That money will help sustain them for the time being,” Jonah reported over the phone.
‘Figures. Jasper will never turn a blind eye to his fiancée. He’s deeply in love with her. Despite being cheated on, he’s always there for her. I guess he can’t wait for the day when his genuine feelings are betrayed,” Alyssa sneered as she kicked her heels off to massage her sore feet.
“But money can’t revive a bad reputation. Giving the Gardners money is no different from a waste of resources. It won’t change anything.” Jonah responded.
Jonah continued, “Jasper is a business prodigy like you. He will likely come to the same realization. It’s just that money is his only way to keep the situation under control right now.” Jonah chuckled and added, “Sometimes, I keep thinking that things would’ve been better if your feelings were mutual. Then, you’d be able to monopolize the whole city. You two could turn the whole city upside down in just a moment.” “Too bad, we’re not fated for that. We can’t stay in the same place,” Alyssa remarked.
She took a piece of chocolate bar from the drawer and ate it, her eyes shining brightly. 1
Can't Win Me Back Chapter 25-After the call with Jonah, Sean entered the office impatiently.
“Ms. Alyssa, Jasper Beckett is here again! He’s quite brazen, isn’t he? It’s a shame that he’s not an insurance agent,” Sean said.
“I’m impressed by his determination. He’s able to go this far for his loved one.”Alyssa kept signing the documents without looking up.
Nevertheless, Sean noticed the bitterness in her indifferent tone. He wondered if it was just his imagination.
“Ms. Alyssa, I will personally make sure he doesn’t come back this time.” “No. Bring Jasper here.” Alyssa capped the pen and arched a brow.
“What?” Sean was surprised.
“He genuinely wants to meet me. I guess I should spare the president of Beckett Group some courtesy, shouldn’t I?” Alyssa leaned forward and stretched her legs. Sean hurried over and slid the heels onto her feet.
“Find a pretty lady with a sharp tongue. Look for one at the restaurants and cafés. I have something for her to do,” Alyssa instructed.
After over ten minutes, Sean led a waitress to the office. She met the criteria Alyssa had requested.
“N-Nice to meet you, Ms. Alyssa,” Mia said timidly. She dared not breathe heavily.
“Relax. I have a small mission for you. There will be a reward after that.” Alyssa smiled.
“No need for the rewards. It’s my honor to be able to help you.” Mia blushed.
“I’m a fan of yours!” Alyssa grinned at her hardcore fan and nodded. “Not bad. Our body shapes are almost the same. Sean, bring her a set of my clothes and shoes too.” “Huh? Okay “Sean left in confusion.
“Ms. Alyssa, how may I help you?” asked Mia earnestly.
Alyssa smiled. “There will be an appointment with Mr. Jasper later, but I couldn’t care less to meet him. You can be my substitute.” Mia’s knees went weak after she heard that.
“Don’t be afraid. I’ll monitor the situation in the office. Wear wireless earphones.
Just do as I say. Just remember to act natural.” After frequent visits, Jasper finally got the chance to meet Alyssa.
Despite his calm expression, emotions were stirring in his stomach.
Avery led Jasper and Xavier to the elevator. Along the way, Jasper’s handsome looks drew the attention of the female employees.
They arrived before the elevator. When Xavier reached for the button, Avery stopped him. “This one is reserved for Ms. Alyssa. You can take the other elevator.” “Just what’s so great about her?” Xavier rolled his eyes.
Jasper was unbothered as he had his very own elevator in the Beckett Group.
The elevator slowly ascended toward the 40th floor. Suddenly, it stopped on the 30th floor.
“This way,” said Avery.
“I don’t think we’re there yet. Isn’t Ms. Alyssa’s office located on the 40th floor?” questioned a confused Xavier. (1)
“Yes, but this elevator can only take us this far.” “What do you mean?” Jasper had a bad feeling about this.
“Other than the general manager’s elevator, the other five elevators can only go up to the 30th floor at most. No one can use Ms. Alyssa’s 1/2 Xavier was furious. “Is this how Ms. Alyssa treats her guests? That’s going too far!” +15 BONOS “My job is to follow the orders. If you don’t like it, I can take you downstairs.” Avery was like an emotionless robot.
“Fine. We’ll take the stairs,” Jasper said. He pursed his lips to suppress the anger in him. He headed to the stairs without hesitation. “Does she think I’ll back out if she makes things difficult for me? Not a chance. I will never back down that easily!” he thought.
Can't Win Me Back Chapter 26-“M-Mr. Jasper. I’m out!” Xavier huffed.
The hotel was a tall building with a dozen flights of stairs.
+15 BONOS By the time Xavier reached the 38th floor, he was huffing and puffing. His legs went weak. He almost keeled over.
“Be a man. We have two floors to go. Hurry,” Jasper urged emotionlessly as he continued to climb the stairs.
He was 30 this year, only two years older than Xavier. He had been in the Peacekeeping Forces during his younger days.
After retiring from the forces, he regularly worked out and practiced boxing.
Thus, his stamina and tolerance were above average.
He knew he could still do it even if he had to climb another 20 floors. After all, the night run in the forces was always more than 30 rounds on the field.
Once they reached the 40th floor, Xavier sat on the stairs to catch his breath.
Jasper shook his head at Xavier.
“Nice to meet you, Mr. Jasper,” said a man who approached Jasper with a professional smile. His eyes made him look young. It was hard to guess his age.
The man continued. “I’m Sean Lynch, Ms. Alyssa’s secretary. She has been waiting for you. Please come with me.” “Is he implying that we’re slow?” Jasper wondered. He felt a surge of anger. His expression darkened. Then Jasper responded, “Walking can never be faster than the elevator. I hope she won’t take it to heart.” Sean didn’t say a word. He simply turned around and led the way, appearing unprofessional in his attitude.
“What’s with his attitude?” Xavier finally regained his composure. He was about to confront Sean, but Jasper halted him.
“Stay here.” Jasper took a deep breath and followed Sean to the general manager’s office.
He had attended many significant events. Yet, he somehow became nervous right before meeting Alyssa in person.
After the sound of knocking, a female voice resounded from the inside. “Come in.” Sean opened the door and gestured for Jasper to enter the office.
Jasper swallowed nervously. He adjusted himself before striding into the office.
Alyssa was having chocolate while watching them from the room beside the office.
Sitting behind the table was a young lady in exquisite clothes. Her long hair rested over her shoulders, making her look young.
“Is this her? The one who keeps making things difficult for me?” he thought, disappointed. “She looks different from what I expected. She doesn’t have the sophisticated grace and the air of a manager.” “Mr. Jasper, you must be tired. Please, take a seat.” Alyssa instructed into the earpiece. Her puppet, Mia, echoed her words. However, Mia appeared rather restless compared to Alyssa. Her expression was stiff.
Jasper seated himself on the couch as he scanned the room.
The interior of the office was classic. There was a black plano placed in the corner. Next to the leather couch was a marble table. The one that caught Jasper’s attention was the painting hanging behind “Alyssa.” It was a painting of a tiger in the mountains.
“Nice painting,” he exclaimed.
Alyssa’s chewing mouth stopped, and her heart skipped a beat. If her memories served her right, it was his first time complimenting her.
During the past three years, when she cared for him as his wife, no matter how hard she tried, she could never impress him.
She had never expected to hear a compliment from him right now. Yet, such a thing no longer bothered her.
“You like the painting?” Alyssa smiled ambiguously.
“You can have it if you like. Think of it as a gift for our first meeting.” “It’s fine. Based on the sharp colors, I bet the painter is famous. It would make me look bad to take that away from you,” Jasper rejected indifferently.
•
Can't Win Me Back Chapter 27-Alyssa burst into laughter. Mia had no choice but to laugh too. Jasper frowned.
“I’ll take that, but there’s no need to feel shy. I can make more of this painting.
You can have it.” Alyssa’s words carried hints of mockery.
Upon hearing that, Jasper’s expression went stiff as he balled his fists.
“You went through so much to meet me. I bet it’s not for some paintings. Let’s cut to the chase.” She didn’t have time to beat around the bush with him.
“Honestly, I’m here for the issue regarding Gardner Group. I hope you can stop oppressing them. There’s room for negotiations.” Jasper’s tone was low, but his gaze was formidable. “After all, it will only do you good in Solana City if you work with us.” “Do you call this an oppression, Mr. Jasper?” Alyssa was at a loss for words.
“I think it is an action of justice to reveal the underhanded sellers. It will be a wake–up call to our peers so that no one will repeat the mistakes that we did.
They won’t purchase products of bad quality and be left with no place to complain.” “There could be production issues, as even an established car company can face a recall crisis due to certain problems.” Jasper was taking the Gardners‘ side.
He added, “You can return the products or request a refund. Releasing an article that could damage their reputation seems unnecessary. There’s no need to release that article to tarnish their reputation. If you continuously pressurize a medium–sized enterprise until its demise, it may discourage other companies in Solana City from collaborating with yours.” Alyssa narrowed her eyes dangerously. She crushed the chocolate in her hands.
In other words, Jasper was issuing her a threat. If the issue continued, the Beckett Group would interfere with the Taylor Group’s development in Solana City.
Alyssa felt furious and thought, “How dare he threaten me! Does he think I’m a coward?” “I’m moved by how much you’re sacrificing for your lover. But we need to put personal feelings aside. Despite any setbacks in meeting me, your unwavering commitment is indeed admirable. But I must say, even if you own Solana City, your love won’t stop me from standing firm, Alyssa replied.
Jasper was equally shocked and angry. Yet, he could not refute her words. He had never personally cleaned up such a mess before. But he was doing it right now solely for Liana’s sake.
Alyssa relished the sight of his stiff expression displayed on the monitor.
“Since things have gone this far, there’s little left to discuss between us. Now that I know your intentions, I’ll see you at the negotiation table next time. I hope you’ll bear with me when that time comes, even if my words might offend you. Jasper rose from his seat.
Despite things not unfolding as he had hoped, his ego prevented any signs of defeat from showing. He maintained a resolute stance, akin to a soldier refusing to surrender.
Just as he turned around to leave, a voice resounded behind him.
“I was wrong, Ms. Alyssa! I made the wrong call in the heat of the moment!
Please Please spare my life. If words get out, I will never be able to stand on my own feet in Solana City! Elysian Home approached me with an idea to make quick money. It was all Mr. Gardner’s idea!
I thought the mattresses were all the same. I had no idea it was a set–up!” Jasper looked back in surprise. His mind was reeling from the shocking revelation.
After playing the recording, Alyssa crossed her legs. She relished the sight of his crestfallen face.
“If it had been a small venture, I might have been inclined to lend a hand. But if it’s a malicious one that gets in my way, I’ll lead the charge to dismantle it, no matter the cost.” Alyssa smiled. (1)
She continued, “I’ll keep that in mind, Mr. Jasper. Further discussion is pointless.
We shall meet again someday.” Jasper left the office in a daze. His temples throbbed from the shocking discovery.
1/2 +15 BONOS him only to notice his pale complexion.
“Nothing. We can talk after we’re back home.” Jasper replied. He marched forward with heavy steps. His head was hurting, but that did not stop him from replaying Alyssa’s words.
The moment the recording played, he felt like everything he had been doing was a joke.
He had initially believed Gardner Group was innocent. He assumed the Taylor Group was trying to undermine his company after the wedding announcement.
But he was wrong. He had it coming!
Jasper loosened his tie, yet he still couldn’t catch his breath. Suddenly, he heard familiar footsteps behind him.
The click–clacking sound of high heels sounded steady yet graceful.
“Alice?” Jasper quickly looked back at the empty corridor.
Can't Win Me Back Chapter 28-Alyssa returned to her office.
Mia approached her with wobbly legs. “I–I was so scared! Mr. Jasper is so good–looking! And there’s this powerful presence about him! My cheeks were burning the moment I met him. D–Did I do well, Ms. Alyssa?” “You did great.” Alyssa handed her an envelope. “Take it. You’ve earned it.” “T–Thank you, Ms. Alyssa!” Mia took the envelope and was surprised by its thickness.
Just then, Sean handed her a document. It was a confidentiality agreement.
“I know you’re trustworthy, but I think it’s better to have an agreement for both parties‘ sake.” Alyssa smiled faintly.
She continued, “Everything that happened today must remain between us.
Unless I reveal it myself, sharing this conversation with a third party would be a breach of the agreement. I will get to the bottom of it.” Feeling overwhelmed by the gravity of the situation, Mia nodded and signed the papers. She promised to keep it a secret before leaving the office.
“The rumor has it that Jasper is a decisive person. I just can’t guess what’s on his mind. Don’t you think so, Ms. Alyssa? Ms. Alyssa?” Sean said.
Alyssa pulled herself back from her train of thought. She smiled wryly. “Mr.
Jasper truly loves Ms. Gardner. He’s willing to put his pride down for her.” “I heard it’s his second marriage, and he treated his first wife badly. Now that Ms. Gardner is going to marry him, I guess the first wife sowed the seeds of the future Н Alyssa slammed the table and glared at him. Sean shuddered under her cold gaze. Still, he did not know which part of his words infuriated her.
“M–Ms. Alyssa, now that you failed to make a deal with Jasper, what are you planning to do?” Sean quickly changed the subject.
“Wait,” Alyssa replied curtly.
“Wait? What do you mean?” Sean was confused.
“I’ll bide my time until the pressure overwhelms Gardner Group and the day Dylan himself addresses the quality issue. They’ll strive to salvage their reputation. When that day comes, I’ll deliver the final blow,” Alyssa sneered.
“Do you think Jasper will lend them a hand then?” “He won’t.” Alyssa looked at her painting, which Jasper had praised. She felt a mix of emotions.
She explained, “He had been used because he didn’t know their true colors.
Now that the truth is out, I’m certain he won’t support them any longer. Besides, he loves Liana. He doesn’t care about the rest. He only showed up this time because the controversy might indirectly affect Gardner Group. Jasper’s a calculating man.” Jasper had gone to great lengths for Liana. He was even willing to set aside his pride, meet Alyssa personally, and climb ten floors of stairs.
He would do anything for Liana. Yet, he was unwilling to do something as simple as pouring Alice a glass of water.
Alyssa recalled that her stomach was hurting that day. “Jasper, my stomach hurts. Could you ··· get me a glass of warm water?” “I have something urgent to attend to. Ask Mrs. Rosie for it,” Jasper said.
With reddened eyes, Alyssa suddenly grinned. “Jasper Beckett, I hope you rot yourself with Liana forever!” It was only a drizzle when Jasper first arrived at KS World Hotel. Now, the weather had transformed into a thunderstorm. His mood was the same.
The atmosphere in the car was so gloomy. Jasper kneaded his brows. His head throbbed in pain.
1/2 +15 BONOS Xavier continued, “You’ve encountered many troublesome individuals before and never seemed bothered. Why this time —” Alyssa’s younger self was on Jasper’s mind. He had a strange feeling about it.
Yet, the girl had no semblance to the woman he just met.
Her features might have changed as she aged. It was a possibility that Jasper considered.
“Investigate the cause of the issue between Gardner Group and Taylor Group, as well as Andrew and Dylan’s whereabouts. Report to me instantly once you find something.” Jasper rushed back to Beckett Group for a meeting and to tackle the accumulated work pile. He leaned back in his chair and let out an exhausted sigh.
He had hoped his relationship with Liana would go on smoothly after Alice’s departure.
Jasper thought that he had finally found a place that he could call “home.”
Can't Win Me Back Chapter 29-The truth was, Jasper not only failed to experience true love, but he also felt increasingly helpless in this relationship.
A knock on the door interrupted his thoughts. Jasper responded, and Xavier entered the office with a document.
“I’ve looked into it, Mr. Jasper. KS World Hotel returned Elysian Home’s products and terminated all collaborations with Gardner Group nine days ago.
Taylor Group hadn’t exposed the quality issue to the media at that time. It was more of the public’s assumptions.” Jasper knew the series of events that took place after that. Next, Liana announced their wedding and hired ghostwriters to attack Alice.
Only then did Taylor Group expose Gardner Group for their quality issue, leading to the current crisis.
Gritting his teeth, Jasper took an aspirin to alleviate the headache. His hands were shaking.
“I heard there was a vice general manager named Michael at KS World Hotel.
He received a huge sum from Gardner Group before Ms. Alyssa was appointed.
She found out he used substandard mattresses and fired him. He had been with them for over 20 years. Mr. Taylor personally promoted him to that position.” Xavier clicked his tongue a few times. “She’s charming. She’s the female version of you, Mr. Jasper.” Despite holding grudges about the stairs, Xavier was still generous with his compliments.
“Why do I think that they are all connected?” Jasper kneaded his temples when a tapping sound rang in his ears. It was the sound of Alice’s heels click-clacking. He heard Alice speaking to him in his head.
“Jasper, don’t take aspirins anymore. Tell me whenever it hurts. I’ll give you a massage.” “Jasper, it hurts me to see you in pain. I will make sure to treat your illness. That way, we won’t have to suffer anymore.” Alice’s gentle words rang in his ears. He could vaguely feel someone massaging his temples too!
Jasper lost it. He silently rebuked himself, “Damn it! I’m thinking about her again! I’m having delusions too. I had never cared for her feelings. Why do I keep missing her after the divorce? I am not a two-timing jackass! I mustn’t be!” 2 The night descended, and a Rolls-Royce glided along the slippery road.
The area was close to KS World Hotel, a piece of land that had always sparked envy in Jasper due to its immense value worth millions.
Had they not lost a star due to insufficient management, KS World Hotel could’ve been the only six-star hotel in Solana City.
Alyssa seemed to have the capability and influence to bring it back on the right track.
As the car paused at the red light, Jasper cleared the condensation from the window to peer outside.
A woman standing with an umbrella caught his attention. She was hailing a taxi by the road. A sudden realization made his heart race. He quickly darted out of his car toward her.
“Mr. Jasper! Mr. Jasper, where are you going?” Xavier was caught off-guard.
Jasper’s emotions had been out of control since the divorce, driving Xavier to the end of his wits.
The woman managed to hail a taxi. As she reached the door handle, Jasper grabbed her arm.
Baffled, she raised her head. Her face paled almost instantly. “M-Mr. Jasper?” “Ms. Alyssa.” His wet fringe concealed his dangerous gaze. “Need a ride?” The woman shrieked and flung his hand away to get into the taxi. The taxi driver instantly stepped on the gas pedal.
“Mr. Jasper!” Xavier caught up with him with an umbrella.
Jasper shoved him away. He was all drenched in the rain, and his lips quivered.
He huffed, “Alyssa Taylor, you liar!”
Can't Win Me Back Chapter 30-Jasper returned to Seaview Manor, completely drenched. Rosie hurried over with a cloth, but he waved her away.
He headed upstairs with a long face.
“W-What’s wrong with him? Did someone offend him?” Rosie asked in concern.
“You should comfort him later. He had been deceived,” responded Xavier.
“Huh? He’s sharp and smart, though. He had been deceived? Have you reported to the police? We have to call the cops.” Rosie was surprised.
Xavier shook his head. “It’s It’s complicated. The police can’t do anything about it. Fortunately, justice prevailed over evil.” “I told him to download an anti-scammer app long ago. He just wouldn’t listen.
Look at him now. He’s a victim.” Xavier smiled bitterly at the thought of Jasper having finally met his match. It wouldn’t have been this serious if it was money-related, but the liar made use of Jasper’s pride!
A pale-faced Jasper headed upstairs. He appeared lifeless.
‘Mr. Jasper, Ms. Gardner is here. Mr. Javier is asking for you. He’s in the study,” a maid informed him politely.
His lips were pursed into a thin line as he walked to Javier’s study. (1 “Jasper, you’re finally here!” Liana ran to him and hugged him as though he was a treasure found.
He appeared indifferent. He did not return the hug immediately like he always did. Sorrow seemed to consume him as he faced Liana.
“Jasper, how did it go? Have you met Ms. Alyssa?” Javier inquired sternly.
As the chairman of Beckett Group, Javier had many responsibilities to attend to.
Thus, he usually wouldn’t involve himself in such trivial matters.
However, Sophia had been reminding him about the matter every day. He had no choice but to get Jasper to keep the situation under control.
“Jasper will protect Liana and her family. He genuinely cares for her. If he personally spoke to Ms. Alyssa, Taylor Group wouldn’t refuse his request that easily. Beckett Group isn’t any small company. If they offend us, it won’t bode well for their development in Solana City.” Sophia snorted while linking arms with her husband. (1 I It was a method she had used for over 20 years, treating Jasper with high regard and showering him with praise to raise expectations from others.
That way, she could complain to Javier whenever Jasper had shortcomings, using it as a means to drive a wedge between them.
“Dad, Aunt Sophia, let’s stop right here.” Jasper’s eyes were hollow.
“What do you mean by that?” Javier’s brows creased.
“I won’t help Gardner Group from now onward. That’s it.” He then left without looking back, leaving the trio dumbstruck.
“J-Javier, he’s joking, isn’t he?” The smile on Sophia’s face went stiff. She was getting anxious.
Javier’s expression was grim, but he didn’t say anything.
Jasper returned to his bedroom, drenched. He wasn’t in the state of mind to wash up and get changed because the fact that Alyssa had deceived him filled his head.
“Why wouldn’t you meet me personally, Alyssa Taylor? Is it that you’re hiding something? Or do you think that I don’t deserve it?” Doubts filled his mind.
บา +15 BONOS “All of the orders are canceled. The products will rot in the storage, and we can’t afford to pay the workers. If this goes on, we are going to go bankrupt!” Liana exclaimed.
She lost her ever-gentle demeanor because her family’s crisis had consumed her thoughts.
“It’s getting late. I’ll get Xavier to drive you home,” Jasper said wearily.
“Jasper, what happened? What made you change your mind? Tell me. Just tell me!” Jasper kept his words brief after a tiring day. Besides, what else could he say to her? Could he tell her that her brother deserved every bit of it?
At that moment, he noticed something.
The box containing the suit was missing! It was supposed to be on the headboard!
He removed Liana’s hands and searched every corner of the room for it. Sternly, he called out, “Mrs. Rosie.” Rosie hurried over. “Yes, Mr. Jasper.” “Where’s the box on the headboard? There’s a suit in it.” He sounded urgent.
‘I didn’t touch it. You told me not to touch anything Madam Alice gave you when I do the cleaning