Ch. 166..170: Inherit Billions Chapter 166-170
Chapter 166
Finished
Jane's Revenge
Today, Jane made a point to dress up. She wore heavy makeup, a stark contrast to the disheveled state she was in when the police last escorted her away.
Her appearance instantly captured the reporters' attention.
Everyone knew that Seraphina and Jane were at odds. Today, it seemed another major headline was about to unfold.
Jane smiled with a calm, warm demeanor.
"I was wondering why it's so lively here, and it turns out Seraphina is selling something."
Jane didn't attack right away. After all, Will had scolded her once. Jane knew Seraphina wasn't someone they could easily provoke, but that didn't mean she was backing down.
Seraphina had humiliated her, and Jane was determined to get her revenge.
This press conference was the perfect opportunity. She doubted Seraphina would do anything to her in front of so many cameras.
Seraphina maintained a distant, indifferent smile, neither enthusiastic nor awkward.
She said nothing, as they weren't close to each other.
Seraphina didn't intend to engage with Jane in front of the cameras.
Jane smiled.
She said this to the cameras.
"Althoug I don't have a wealthy father like Seraphina, I frequently attend various Winterwood events, and I do have a bit of taste when t comes to aesthetics. As a consumer, I think I'm qualified to comment on these products."
Jane intended to cause trouble for Seraphina at the press conference. Even if she couldn't ruin the event, she could at least make Seraphina uncomfortable.
Before anyone responded with her comments, a figure suddenly rushed out from the crowd of reporters.
The person swiftly approached Jane and slapped her hard across the face.
In an instant, the situation spiraled out of control.
"Jane, how dare you show your face in front of me again?"
It was none other than Natalie.
Jane stumbled back two steps, nearly falling to the ground.
Before she could regain her balance, Natalie pounced on her again.
"When you used me to go against Seraphina, why didn't you tell me that Seraphina is in charge of Cross 1/2
Jane's Revenge
Finished
managed to secure a business deal with Cross Group, and you ruined it all. You destroyed my future!" Natalie's voice was loud and unrestrained, completely disregarding the consequences of her outburst. The reporters captured the whole scene from various angles and didn't miss a moment.
The live broadcast continued uninterrupted until the bodyguards pulled Natalie off Jane.
By then, Jane's hair was her clothes were torn, and scratch marks were visible on her face. She looked utterly wretched.
Jane's face turned pale as
glanced nervously at the surrounding reporters.
Everything she had planned had backfired.
Instead of gaining
She had become a laughingstock.
She glared at Natalie, her voice trembling with anger.
"I don't even know you
ander me!"
Meanwhile, Seraphina had been observing the scene from the side with interest. She remained stunning and composed, her
e unwavering.
She watched the drama unfold like a mere spectator.
A nearby reporter couldn't resist asking Seraphina, "Ms. Cross, what do you think about Ms. Wheeler's situation?"
Seraphina blinked and thought carefully. Her expression was innocent and hesitant.
"Although Ms. Wheeler once spread false rumors about me and infringed on my rights, this matter today has nothing to do with me."
She smiled and walked past everyone, leaving the scene escorted by her bodyguards.
On the other side, Jane and Natalie couldn't help but twitched their mouths with Seraphina's response.
Nothing to do with you?
Both of us have a grudge against you.
Chapter 167
Hansen's Admirer
Seraphina got into the car, but her mood was completely unaffected by the recent events.
She didn't need to worry; others were guiding and controlling the online buzz.
As expected, Seraphina didn't disappoint. Her influence had boosted Cross Group's popularity, resulting in mutual success.
Sivir's return to the country brought her a sense of relief.
Finally, she could take a few days off.
In the bar.
Having nothing better to do, Olivia dragged Seraphina out for a drink.
Under the dim lights, Seraphina saw Olivia chatting and laughing with the bartender.
Olivia spotted her and gave her a strange look.
She shook her head, and she couldn't help but tease her.
"Ms. Cross, you've been quite popular lately. Are you planning to keep that wolf cub around?"
Seraphina chuckled guiltily.
The bartender looked at Seraphina with a gaze filled with admiration.
A glass of tequila was placed in front of her. Seraphina smiled and took a sip.
"Thanks."
"Another batch of men would give up pursuing you now. Aren't you afraid you'll have no suitors left?" Olivia sighed.
Seraphina raised an eyebrow, unfazed.
"I'm perfectly fine as I am. Why would I need any men?"
"You have a point, especially since you consider someone like Orion to be below your league."
Olivia pursed her lips and acted as if she were looking out for her friend.
"If you ever have any needs, you could always pay for the most expensive man."
Cough cough
Seraphina choked on her drink and almost died right there.
She shot Olivia a look-what a best friend indeed!
Olivia was oblivious to her reaction and continued frowning in thought.
Hansen's Admirer
Seraphina smirked and casually scoffed.
She played along and answered, "Worthless."
The bartender overheard the conversation. He couldn't help but twitch his mouth.
In fact, only Ms. Seraphina could describe someone like Mr. Orion as worthless. Wait a minute!
He looked up and suddenly noticed a tall man standing behind them.
That man... looks like Mr. Orion?
His hand quivered at his discovery.
The glass suddenly slipped from his grasp.
Crush!
The bartender said, "Mr... Mr. Dros?"
Seraphina and Olivia froze.
They shared a silent understanding.
Neither of them turned around.
Talking behind someone's back and getting caught-what an awkward feeling!
Seraphina sensed a burning gaze fixed on her from behind.
The sensation prickled her scalp.
Quickly, sne composed herself.
What is there to be afraid of?
I can say it to his face. I'm telling the truth.
Orion was genuinely worthless in her eyes.
She relaxed when she thought of this.
Seraphina turned around.
No one was there.
She frowned slightly, turned, and glared at the bartender.
The bartender quickly explained.
"I swear, I wasn't seeing things! It was really Mr. Dros! When I looked again, he was gone!"
Chavin hoon mistahan?
Finished
Hansen's Admirer
No way!
That brief moment of feeling a prickling sensation at his back couldn't be wrong.
Olivia exhaled with a sense of relief.
She didn't even know why she was scared.
Suddenly, a loud noise erupted from the stage.
The thunderous sound of a drum set drew everyone's attention.
*Finished
Seraphina instinctively looked up and saw a familiar face there. This man was engrossed in the world of drumming. ""Hansen?"
Olivia seemed to have known this all along.
She grinned and leaned close to Seraphina.
"Did you know? Jennifer Perez is coming back."
Jennifer was CEO of Perez Group. She was a Valorian's career woman.
After her parents passed away, she took charge of Perez Group at a young age, holding up the entire family by herself.
Rumors circulated that she had connections with a major Valorian drug lord.
When it comes to this powerful woman, everyone knows her name.
She was a force to be reckoned with.
Jennif has had a thing for Hansen for many years, but people don't know.
Seraphina was slightly taken aback by the news.
"She's coming back for Hansen?"
Olivia raised an eyebrow lightly.
"What else? She has returned for shopping?"
Seraphina quietly marveled.
Great! Someone's finally going to take Hansen off her hands!
Chapter 168
Jealousy
On stage, Hansen lost himself entirely in his own musical world.
As the drum beats came to an end, he twirled the drumsticks in his hand, a devilish grin spreading across his handsome face.
Seraphina instinctively joined the crowd in waving their hands, but Hansen's eyes were solely on her.
He picked up the microphone beside him and spoke loudly, "The girl I like is showing her love for me."
He even raised his eyebrows provocatively in Seraphina's direction.
The crowd erupted in cheers.
In an instant, Seraphina dropped her hand, turned her head, and covered her face. She was driven insane by him.
Olivia muttered, "That Hansen ... is he out of his mind?"
She twitched her lip, also lowering her head to avoid recognition.
It was so embarrassing to admit knowing Hansen.
Orion was upstairs in the private room, his deep-set eyes fixed on the stage where Hansen shone brightly. He snorted coldly, his expression icy.
Opposite him sat a woman, elegant and composed. Her short, crisp hair added an air of cool detachment, making her seem aloof and unapproachable. Despite her youth, the poise she had developed over years in the business world made her a formidable
presence.
She held a wine glass in her hand, her fingers slightly pale as she gripped it.
Her g
e was locked onto Hansen on the stage, and her heart was filled with complex emotions.
For a brief moment, the jealousy in her eyes was unmistakable, but she quickly concealed it.
The look in her eyes was turning dark and unreadable.
This woman was Jennifer Perez.
"Mr. Dros, I hope our collaboration will be successful."
Their glasses clinked softly as they sealed the deal.
Early the next morning, Seraphina chose a stylish and elegant dress, pairing it with a jacket. She looks vibrant and radiant.
At the office, Thomas handed her the latest documents.
"There's a bidding meeting this afternoon. That plot of land is prime real estate. Besides us, Dros Group is the strongest contender."
Jealousy
Seraphina nodded, unsurprised.
Why would Dros Group pass up such a lucrative opportunity?
She flipped open the first page.
"This is our reserve price."
The number was significant.
Thomas nodded. "Yes."
Seraphina took note and decided to attend the bidding in person.
The luxurious banquet hall was dazzling, with crystal chandeliers casting brilliant light.
People come and go, exchanging pleasantries, but no one revealed anything significant.
After all, the key to winning was the reserve price.
As soon as she entered, Seraphina noticed Ken standing by, and he was mingling with everyone.
It seemed Orion hadn't come in person.
Beside Ken stood a striking young woman with delicate features and composed manners.
Her every move exuded a sharp business acumen.
Seraphina noticed her immediately-she seemed familiar yet unfamiliar.
The woman smiled and caught Seraphina's eye, too.
The two of them locked eyes, neither looking away.
Seraphi a smiled graciously. That woman approached and extended her hand.
"Ms. Cross? I'm Jennifer Perez. It's a pleasure to meet you."
Seraphina paused for a second, then reached out and smiled back.
"The pleasure is mine."
Jennifer exuded a commanding presence, dressed in an expensive, sharp business suit.
Finished
Seraphina was accustomed to wearing dresses. She appeared more gentle and graceful in comparison, giving her a slight edge. "Seraphina, why are you just arriving?"
A voice called from behind, followed by an arm slung casually over her shoulder.
It was Hansen.
Seraphina stared back at him. She was surprised, and she casually brushed away his hand.
Jealousy
"Is your family interested in this land too?"
Hansen gave a charming smile and said, "I'm more interested in you."
Seraphina's gaze was indifferent as she glanced at him.
"Get lost."
Their interaction appeared very different to a third party.
Jennifer's sharp demeanor softened the moment she saw Hansen.
She brushed back a stray lock of hair, revealing a flawlessly polite smile.
Even her voice became gentler, with a hint of caution.
""Hansen, it's been a while."
Hansen wouldn't have noticed there was a third person present if she hadn't spoken.
"And you are... ?"
Jennifer's expression fell at that question.
Finished
Bidding
Seraphina suddenly remembered her conversation with Olivia last night.
She quickly introduced the newcomer.
"Hansen, this is Jennifer Perez, the president of Perez Group."
They used to be college classmates. Hansen could be so unreliable sometimes.
Hansen finally realized their connection and offered a polite smile.
"Jennifer? I remember now. You've become so lovely that I didn't recognize you."
Jennifer's stiff expression softened noticeably
Seraphina silently exhaled in relief.
Sweet talk does have its advantages.
After exchanging pleasantries, everyone took their seats.
Thomas sat next to Seraphina. He was busy tapping away on his phone and sending emails.
Everyone was here for this prime piece of land, with the same goal in mind.
As soon as the bidding started, the initial offer was 500 million.
Seraphina and Orion sat outside. Jennifer remained quiet, too.
The price climbed rapidly.
It reached 2 billion in no time.
More than half of the bidders had already dropped out.
Jenner raised her paddle. "2.5 billion!"
After a moment of silence, the auctioneer called for the second round of bids.
There was no movement from Ken.
Seraphina found this odd.
Orion shouldn't give up so easily.
Without overthinking it, she signaled Thomas to raise their bid.
"2.8 billion!"
Jennifer followed quickly. "3 billion!"
Jennifer's influence was primarily in Vlago; she shouldn't be so interested in this land.
4
08:35 Tue,
Bidding
As Seraphina was pondering this, Thomas sent her a text message.
"Jennifer and Orion have formed an alliance."
No wonder!
If that's the case, then their collaboration gives them a better chance of winning.
Seraphina maintained her graceful smile.
Inside, she felt a tinge of worry.
Perhaps this trip would end in failure.
Despite this, Seraphina wasn't willing to give up so easily.
She signaled for Thomas to continue.
"4.5 billion."
The room fell silent.
The real bidding war had just begun.
Only those with the confidence to win were now in the running.
Jennifer glanced in Seraphina's direction. Her eyes were sharp and burning.
Without hesitation, she raised her paddle again.
""4.8 billion."
Any higher, and they'd be nearing Seraphina's limit.
3
Finished
00
Even though the Crosses could afford it, buying this land wouldn't yield much profit for decades. It wasn't worth the investment. After a brief moment of consideration, she nodded at Thomas.
""4.9 billion."
This was their final offer.
Jennifer clearly began to waver.
Seraphina immediately understood that the reserve price must be around that figure.
She glanced sideways.
Jennifer exchanged a few words with Ken in a low voice, and then Ken started texting someone.
No need to guess it must be Orion.
"4.9 billion, going twice-"
D
Bidding
Jennifer raised her paddle again, her expression tense.
"4.95 billion-"
Seraphina lowered her gaze slightly, deciding not to push further.
A losing deal wasn't worth it.
Jennifer was visibly relaxed.
Just as the auctioneer was about to finalize the sale, Hansen suddenly spoke up.
"5 billion-
The room buzzed with surprise.
Seraphina stared at him in disbelief.
"Are you insane?"
Hansen smirked but remained silent.
Jennifer was momentarily stunned. She was clearly shocked by Hansen's bid.
5 billion was beyond what Jennifer and Orion had anticipated.
"5 billion, going once"
"5 billion, going twice-"
5 billion, going three times-sold to Mr. Colombo!"
The room erupted in applause.
The land had been given to the Colombos.
Hansen stood up with effortless grace. He waved to the crowd and walked up to finalize the deal.
Seraphina exchanged a look with Thomas.
The outcome was clear, and it had taken everyone by surprise.
The usually low-key, uncompetitive Colombos had bid 5 billion to win this land.
What on earth did Hansen plan to do with it?
Chapter 170
A Gift Worth 5 Billion
As everyone gradually finished their congratulations and began to leave, Jennifer and Ken lingered behind, intentionally staying back.
Seraphina, however, showed no interest. She grabbed her bag and was ready to head out.
She hadn't taken more than a few steps before someone grabbed her arm.
"Why are you leaving in such a hurry?"
Hansen's smile was charmingly roguish, his eyes twinkling like stars.
Seraphina paused for a moment, then regained her composure.
"Are you waiting for me to congratulate you?"
5 billion!
Had Hansen not done a proper budget assessment beforehand?
Hansen chuckled softly and said, "No need for that. You might want to congratulate yourself instead."
Seraphina raised an eyebrow, puzzled.
Hansen leaned closer and spoke in a low voice.
"Didn't you want that piece of land? Well, it's yours for 4.9 billion."
Seraphina stiffened instantly, making her entire body rigid.
Behind her, Jennifer and Ken, who had followed, were equally stunned, their faces betraying their shock.
Jennifer's face paled as she stepped forward, her brows furrowing, unable to hold back her question. "Hansen, what do you mean by this? Aren't you planning to develop it yourself?" Hai
n turned to her. His smile was relaxed and almost indifferent. He answered nonchalantly, "I'm not interested. I'm gifting it to my little angel."
His smile was affectionate, and he winked at Seraphina.
Jennifer's eyes widened in disbelief.
"You... How could you do this? Are you treating the company's money like a game?"
Her tone was sharp and harsh.
Hansen's expression darkened slightly, his displeasure evident.
The amusement left his eyes as he gave Jennifer a cold glance.
"My family's money isn't anyone else's concern, is it?" He replied icily.
Then he turned to Seraphina, his gaze soft and affectionate.
A Gift Worth 5 Billion
Finished
"Honestly, I'd give it to you for free, but I figured you'd feel guilty. How about you marry me instead? Everything I've built will be yours."
A mere piece of land couldn't compare to Seraphina.
Seraphina hadn't expected Hansen to spend such a fortune for her sake.
Her emotions were a jumble of conflicting feelings.
She could afford the 100 million, but the company's financial decisions weren't to be taken lightly. It wasn't a decision she could make easily.
Yet his actions left her feeling both pressured and touched.
In her hesitation, Jennifer's cold laugh cut through the air.
"So this is how chaotic business has become-mixing personal and professional matters. Do you intend to use the entire family's assets to win a woman's favor?" Her words clearly crossed a line.
Hansen's brow furrowed, his demeanor turning even colder.
He ignored Jennifer's outburst, looking at Seraphina with a half smile.
He said, "As long as it makes her happy, it's all worth it."
Even if it means giving up everything,
He wouldn't hesitate.
With just those words, Jennifer's face turned pale.
His words and his attitude had unknowingly hurt her.
The usually tough and resilient Jennifer inexplicably teared up.
Without saying word, she left the scene.
Hansen truly was devoted to Seraphina.
Seraphina frowned.
""Hansen, you're being ridiculous!"
Hansen shrugged, still smiling. "I don't want the things you like to fall into someone else's hands."
Especially not Orion's.
Seraphina sighed helplessly.
She turned to Thomas and commanded.
"Get the company to transfer 4.9 billion to the Colombo family."
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A Gift Worth 5 Billion
"Yes, ma'am."
Seraphina looked back at Hansen and said, "And the remaining 100 million, I'll pay you personally."
He wasn't Justin, and she didn't have any reason to take advantage of him for 100 million.
Hansen was clearly dissatisfied with this.
"Seraphina, I don't want ...'
Finished
"If you don't want it, then you can keep the land for yourself. Let's see whether Walter will skin you alive!"
With that, Seraphina walked away without giving him another glance.
Hansen hesitated, a flicker of uncertainty in his eyes, before quickly catching up to her.
"I did that for you!"
"Get lost!"
At the Dros Group, Orion listened to Ken's report, his face dark with anger.
He wouldn't have minded if Seraphina had won.
It was a fair competition, after all.
He had even considered letting the land go or proposing a three-way partnership.
What infuriated him was that Hansen had won it-only to give it to Seraphina as a gift. What a joke!
And what did that make him?
Was he supposed to look like a petty villain now?
Ken sto by silently, feeling the heavy tension in the air.
Never before has Mr. Dros been so mad over losing a bid.
Mr. Colombo is impressive! He sure had a knack for stirring things up.
"Mr. Dros...
11
Ken finally spoke up. "Now that someone else had won the bid,"
Orion cut him off coldly.
"Contact Old Mr. Colombo directly and tell him I'm offering 5 billion for that land. Let's see if he's willing to sell."