Ch. 316..320: Inherit Billions Chapter 316-320

Chapter 316

Rivals

The two of them strolled leisurely to the small bridge in the middle of the park. The air around them was filled with a calm, romantic atmosphere-the kind of serene moment that only time could create.

Orion glanced at Seraphina, who was leaning her elbows on the bridge's railing. Her profile was graceful and beautiful, her bright eyes sparkling and a subtle smile gracing her lips. She radiated a charm that was impossible to look away from. He laughed softly. The words he had kep

to himself for so long suddenly slipped out.

"No one plays the violin as beautifully as you. They're all trash compared to you."

To him, Seraphina was the brightest star, just as she had been the first time he saw her at Unearth Bar. She had been captivating on stage-vibrant, passionate, and resilient. All the world's beauty seemed to mirror in her at that moment. He would remember that sight for the rest of his life.

Seraphina gazed at the shimmering water below without replying. This nutcase is incapable of going five minutes without causing drama.

"Suddenly, I feel like giving you all the best things in this world," he murmured again.

Will he ever stop?

Seraphina turned her head abruptly, a frown on her face. Her gaze shifted to the dark night sky behind Orion just as she was about to speak. Suddenly, fireworks exploded overhead.

One after another, brilliant bursts of color lit up the sky-vibrant reds and purples, as though stars were exploding in a dazzling display. It was an incredible sight. For a moment, flowers of light covered the night sky over the Tayness River, raining down like shooting stars. Stunned, Seraphina watched in awe. The river's sky was like an umbrella of blossoms, decorating the darkness with brilliance.

With the spectacular fireworks as his backdrop, Orion sat there alone in his wheelchair, though there was no trace of weakness in his expression.

He didn't look back at the fireworks. His gaze stayed locked on Seraphina, soft and almost greedy, as if he couldn't look away from her. "Do you like it?" he asked.

Seraphina's heart skipped a beat. She asked, "Is that your doing?"

Fireworks were banned along the Tayness River. How had he pulled this off?

Qrion smiled, but before he could answer, a tall, imposing figure approached them.

Wilson smiled and said, "Today is Napoleon's Memorial Day. The locals are celebrating. We're just lucky to have caught the show." Seraphina turned to him, her eyes lighting up with joy.

Rivals

""What a coincidence!"

Wilson nodded and explained, "Yes, there are even more festivities going on over there. Mr. Cross and Dani have already headed over. Should we join them?" "Absolutely!"

Of course, Seraphina wanted to take a look. Seraphina felt relieved that Orion hadn't orchestrated all this. Seraphina had thought it was his doing-now she felt reassured.

Of course, there was no way he would plan something this cheesy and sweet.

His style was more about giving cash or jewelry.

As she started pushing Orion's wheelchair, Wilson stepped forward and took over.

"Go ahead," he said in a smooth, melodious voice. "Mr. Cross is looking for you. I'll handle things here."

Seraphina didn't think much of it. She happily ran off to join the festivities.

The moment she left, Wilson and Orion locked eyes. The atmosphere between them immediately shifted into silence.

The fireworks above clashed with the tension below.

Both men stood at the peak of their worlds-sharp, calculating, and powerful.

Even without much conversation, they understood each other all too well.

Orion's aura turned cold and oppressive. He flicked a leaf off his lap with his finger, his gaze narrowing slightly. "Mr. Rockwell, your intentions seem to go beyond mere collaboration now, don't they?" His voice, low and chilling, was a stark contrast to how he spoke with Seraphina.

This was a side of him that Orion would never reveal to her.

Wilson's hands were casually placed in his pockets. He stood tall and composed. His presence was just as commanding, matching Orion's in intensity.

He met Orion's scrutinizing gaze with a smirk.

"Is Mr. Dros upset that Dani tagged along, or that I did? He responded, deliberately avoiding the question but answering it all the same.

He had come prepared.

There was no denying it.

Orion's eyes narrowed and glinted dangerously, as cold and sharp as an eagle's.

"You're planning to compete with me, aren't you?"

In that moment, the temperature between them seemed to drop to freezing.

William didn't seem overly tence Hic evnreccion remained calm with a faint smile on his face revealino

Chapter 317

Becoming a Stepmother

Orion had to admit it. His anger almost got the best of him. The feeling of someone else coveting what was his infuriated him.

Wilson's power concealed in the shadows was formidable. But Orion's strength? It was vast, out in the open for all to see. In terms of power, they might be equally matched.

Orion quickly regained control over his emotions. Losing his temper? That was a sign of weakness. And he never lost.

His face remained dark, brooding under the dim light. Fireworks exploded brilliantly in the sky ahead, but his expression flickered darkly as he locked eyes with Wilson. "Mr. Rockwell, you're too confident."

A man with a child, a man who'd been through marriage-someone with such a past... How could Seraphina ever give him a chance?

Orion knew her. She would never settle for a man with such baggage.

Wilson remained indifferent, his voice steady and calm.

"I'm not."

He spoke with absolute certainty.

Orion's expression hardened, his brows furrowing as he turned his head sharply. His collar was slightly open, revealing the tension beneath his composed exterior. He cast a precise glance in Ken's direction. His assistant immediately understood. If they didn't act now, when would they?

Ken hurried over, puffing and panting after only a few steps..

Glancing briefly at Wilson, whose expression was cold and calm, Ken said purposefully, "Mr. Dros, a gentleman shouldn't keep a lady waiting too long. Ms. Cross has been waiting for you."

With that, he carefully followed Orion, his steps quick but cautious as they hurried away from the scene.

Wilson stood still, a quiet laugh escaping from his chest as he watched them leave. Wilson's gaze shifted to a point in the distance.

Among the passing crowd, Little Dani clung happily to Seraphina's arm. Occasionally, the boy would look around at all the intriguing sights.

Emeris couldn't hide his joy. Rarely did he have the chance to enjoy such a lively and leisurely day. With his beloved daughter by his side and nothing to worry about, it felt like heaven on earth. Since they were here, Seraphina couldn't miss the chance to meet up with some old classmates, especially when her schedule wasn't too busy.

She had already planned the gathering for tomorrow evening.

Becoming a Stepmother

"Mr. Dros, I can't help but think Mr. Rockwell has an eye for Ms. Cross. And really, can you blame him? Ms. Cross is so beautiful! You better not take your eyes off her-I think their relationship is much closer than yours."

Orion's expression was dark. He was on the verge of agreeing with Ken when he heard that last part and instantly lost the desire to speak.

Observing his expression, Ken tried to comfort him.

"I don't think Ms. Cross would go for him. Sure, he has money, but he's got a kid already! He has a young child, too. When he's gone, who knows how his inheritance will be divided? Ugh, the rich are so complicated!" Orion's expression softened slightly.

Ken continued, "But Ms. Cross does seem to like that kid a lot. What if she doesn't mind becoming a stepmom?"

"Shut up!"

Orion's face turned stormy, his fingers gripping the sides of his wheelchair so tightly that his knuckles went white. "If that day ever comes, you can jump into the Tayness River and find a way to fix it!"

Did Ken think I kept him around just for fun?

No. I bring him along to come up with solutions. And if he couldn't... well, the consequences would be dire.

Ken shivered. He suddenly felt a chill in the air. Maybe it was best if he stayed quiet.

By the time the night reached the early hours of morning, the streets had grown quieter, and the fireworks had ceased. It was time to head back.

When they returned to the castle, the butler had prepared meals for each of them in their rooms. Exhausted, Emeris went straight to bed.

Wilson carried a sleepy Dani, who was half asleep in his arms and left as well.

Seraphina felt tired and, without much appetite, headed upstairs. Surprisingly, she found Orion's room was right across from hers.

Just then, Ken, who had brought dinner, called out to Seraphina.

"Ms. Cross, why not eat something? We've got a special apple cider here too!"

Seraphina hesitated for a moment, but Ken took that as an invitation and bustled in.

"Oh, and Mr. Dros had a tough day too. You know, he worked with so many departments and pulled a lot of strings just to organize this fireworks display over the Tayness River for you. It cost him millions just so you could see it. He truly cares for you." Seraphina's heart skipped a beat.

Chapter 318

Napoleon Takes Advantage of You

"Fireworks? Isn't it a tradition that only occurs on Napoleon's anniversary?" Ken asked, his face twisting in surprise.

"What a coincidence? But no, Napoleon isn't the one getting the benefit here. These fireworks weren't for him. Mr. Dros specifically arranged them so that things wouldn't be too quiet while you were out enjoying yourself. He didn't want Ms. Cross and Mr. Cross to feel bored. He wanted both of you to have a wonderful time. Think about it, since when did Napoleon's birthday celebration have such a grand spectacle?"

Seraphina's expression shifted slightly. She suddenly realized that after spending a few years here, she was completely wrapped up in her own business. Seraphina hadn't paid much attention to Napoleon's birthday celebrations-let alone any fireworks.

She didn't care about those days in the past; some devotees remembered them, and she just observed the festivities out of curiosity.

Therefore, it appears that Orion was responsible for these fireworks.

"Thank you," Seraphina murmured, pressing her lips together.

Her heart felt heavy, like she owed Orion something.

Just then, the door across the hall opened.

Orion stood there, leaning slightly on a cane. He was tall and upright, with a few strands of hair falling messily across his forehead. Aside from a bit of pallor in his complexion, he didn't look much different from his usual self. His face carried a magnetic, brooding charm as his thin lips parted slightly.

"Why aren't you two resting?" he asked.

With a beaming smile, Ken exited Seraphina's room.

"Ms. Cross just found out about the fireworks you prepared for her. She was so moved and nearly broke down in tears. She said she's deeply touched that Mr. Dros could think of something like this, even in the midst of his busy schedule. She hopes you'll recover quickly so you can stand together, hand-in-hand, and watch the fireworks with her!"

Seraphina hadn't closed her door yet; she was speechless.

All she'd said was, "Thank you." How did Ken come up with the rest of that nonsense? Seraphina glanced at Ken, her gaze filled with disbelief at how easily he spun his flattery.

No wonder he was Orion's assistant. His skill at kissing up to his boss was truly amazing.

Orion raised an eyebrow. His cold expression softened into a faint smile. His sharp eyes studied Seraphina as his lips curled upwards ever so slightly.

"Hmm, alright. Don't cry," he said softly,

He was promising to recover quickly, so she wouldn't cry from being too moved.

His hair hung loosely around his face, giving him a relaxed, laid-back aura. The distant, icy demeanor of

Sat,

Napoleon Takes Advantage of You

Seraphina couldn't help but stare at Orion. She was incredulous, as Orion actually believed Ken's ridiculous story.

She wondered how someone this gullible could survive in the cutthroat business world.

Seraphina was speechless.

.

She was ready to throw out some snide remarks, but then she remembered the fireworks and softened her tone a bit.

"You're overthinking. Get some sleep."

Just as she was about to close her door, Orion tilted his head slightly and spoke again.

"I'm hungry. I could use something to eat," he said casually.

Ken immediately chimed in, "There's nothing left. It's all with Ms. Cross. Wouldn't it be boring to eat alone, Ms. Cross? How about... How about inviting Mr. Dros to join her for dinner?

What a perfect opportunity for a romantic dinner for two!

Seraphina narrowed her eyes. She remained silent for two full seconds.

Orion added, "I don't eat much."

He wanted to spend some time with her, even if it was just for one meal.

Seraphina raised an eyebrow and chuckled lightly. She turned, picked up the tray with the food, and handed it to him.

"Good timing. I wasn't going to eat this. It's all yours."

At that moment, she regretted going easy on him earlier. Orion had such a habit of pushing his luck-it made her want to kick him.

Orion frowned and said, "That's not what I meant."

"Well, that's what I meant," she replied.

"Aren't you hungry?" Orion asked, watching her.

She hadn't eaten much at all.

Seraphina snapped, "You want me to starve so you can be full? Great!".

Orion froze for a moment. He'd thought he could use her moment of sympathy to improve their relationship. However, he had overlooked the fact that Seraphina remained unaffected by sentiment. He hesitated, not taking the tray. Seraphina handed it to Ken instead.

"Buddy, be careful not to overfeed Mr. Dros. We wouldn't want him to burst from eating too much."

Iked back into her room and shut the door behind her

Napoleon Takes Advantage of You

Orion clenched his teeth and let out a frustrated chuckle.

This woman never gives an inch.

His chest felt tight, as if something heavy w

Chapter 319Surveillance

Ken looked up sheepishly and asked, "Mr. Dros, would you like some more food?"

Orion's cold gaze swept over him, and Ken quickly shut his mouth.

Okay, it seems his boss wasn't hungry. Ken figured he might as well eat the rest himself.

Back in her room, Seraphina glanced at a photo Emeris had taken of her and Orion. They were standing on the bridge, with a backdrop of brilliant fireworks lighting up the night sky. She was gazing at the flowing river, while he was gazing at her. It was as if time had stopped, an eternity captured in a single

moment.

She thought she understood why Emeris had taken that photo. Emeris had softened his stance, but not hers.

Maybe everyone had overdone it the night before because they all slept in the next morning. Outside, the rain continued to fall, a light, persistent drizzle that was soothing but unrelenting. Perhaps due to the weather, Orion suddenly came down with a high fever. Ken was the first to notice. After a few hours of the doctor's efforts, Orion's fever finally broke.

He couldn't go out in the rain again. He lay in bed, weak and pale, his face completely drained of color. He looked fragile-too fragile.

Emeris expressed concern and visited him multiple times to ensure his well-being. When Orion was conscious, his voice was low and hoarse.

"Honestly, a little rain wouldn't hurt. If you're bored, Mr. Cross, I can arrange for a car to take you around to see the sights."

Emeris patted him on the shoulder and said, "Forget it. You're not feeling well. I'm worried I might catc the fever myself." Orion was speechless.

His gaze swept around the room, but there was no sign of Seraphina. His expression grew a little downcast.

Emeris coughed a little and said, "Seraphina mentioned she wanted to visit the school and then attend a reunion with her friends from Frencette. She's getting ready to leave now." Orion's eyes flickered and he coughed a little.

"She should take Ken with her."

Ken was stunned. He instantly caught on to Orion's intent.

Emeris hesitated. He was unsure why Ken's presence would be necessary.

When he thought about the recent attack Seraphina had faced, he decided it was better to be cautious. An extra person was always better than none.

Surveillance

@92%

Ken nodded cagerly and said, "Don't worry, no one will dare lay a finger on Ms. Cross with me around."

After saying that, he dashed out of the room.

Seraphina finished packing and walked out, only to find Ken standing by the door.

She frowned and asked, "What are you doing here?"

Shouldn't he have been taking care of Orion?

Ken stepped forward with a smile and bowed slightly as he spoke.

"Mr. Cross is concerned for your safety, so he sent me to accompany you."

Seraphina clicked her tongue and asked, "You're protecting me?"

She found it hard to believe, but Ken looked so sincere that it didn't seem like he was lying.

Why would Emeris send him along?

Ken smiled confidently, lifting his chin slightly.

Orion didn't like having bodyguards around. Therefore, as his assistant and driver, Ken had undergone professional combat training. It was essential for him to be prepared to handle any situation that might arise in Orion's presence. Seraphina twitched the corners of her mouth. She said, "Fine, tag along if you want."

With that, she turned and left without looking back.

Ken hurried to keep up.

The light drizzle tapped softly against the car windows. The shadows of trees swept by as the car glided smoothly along. Ken drove with steady hands while Seraphina sat in the back, checking her latest messages.

She didn't have many friends in Frencette, and even fewer with whom she stayed in contact, but they had never grown distant.

When they arrived at the school, Seraphina took in the surroundings. The campus exuded the Etopia style, an ancient and profound academic atmosphere. Every corner of the familiar campus seenery reflected the rigorous and refined vibes. Though she hadn't attended university in Frencette, she had followed her professor here for her doctoral studies. She also expanded the company's market there, leaving behind many memories.

She paused in front of a small, unassuming yet elegant building at the back of the school.

Turning to Ken, she said, "Wait here. I'll be back after I meet with my advisor."

Ken's face contorted in hesitation, but he clenched his jaw and nodded.

"But... Ms. Cross, shouldn't you bring a little gift for the meeting?"

Seraphina shot him a glare and said. "There's nerfume in my bag which I had already prepared for her

10

Surveillance

Bring it here."

Perfume?

A woman?

Ken was immediately at case and handed her the bag. He said, "We'll be right here, waiting for your instructions."

As if she had to worry about them.

Seraphina gave him one last look before heading inside. In such a noble and quiet place, she didn't even feel like cursing. She grabbed her bag and disappeared through the door.

Ken let out a sigh of relief and immediately turned to send a message to Orion.

"Mr. Dros, Ms. Cross is about to meet with her female advisor."

Chapter 320

Homosexuality

Inside the library.

Seraphina gazed at the man sitting in the far corner, hunched over. His thin frame was tapping away on the keyboard in front of a screen filled with an incomprehensible code. Her mentor from three years ago suddenly came to mind-he hadn't changed at all.

A sudden calmness washed over her. "Pierre?"

The man paused and turned around. His hair was "Seraphina?"

Seraphina smiled, walking over to embrace him.

mess, unkempt, with stubble lining his jaw. His tired eyes brightened at the sight of Seraphina.

"I didn't give you a heads-up because I knew you'd be here."

Pierre Nunez chuckled. Despite his finely sculpted features, Pierre Nunez never cared about his appearance, and his unkempt look gave him a slightly worn-down air. Yet, when you looked closely, his eyes gleamed with a hawk-like sharpness and determination.

He was a young scholar at Harold University. Pierre was here for research while holding a faculty position, but at first glance, he seemed rather unremarkable. He sat casually, legs spread, and wore a carefree smile on his face.

"I told you, you were my last student. I don't have the energy to mentor anyone else."

Seraphina pulled out a small, delicate box from her bag.

"Tom Ford perfume, the last edition of this series. You've been collecting them, right?"

Pierre's gaze dimmed slightly as he looked at Seraphina, his lips twitching downward in sadness..

"Seraphina, thank you, but he passed away three months ago. I was gathering these items for him, but now he won't have the opportunity to see them."

Seraphina froze for a moment. Pierre and his boyfriend had overcome countless obstacles before finally being together. He had even taken this teaching post for him. Had his love ended so soon?

Pierre smiled softly, taking the small box from her. "It's okay. I'll tell him. He would've been happy."

Seraphina nodded and stammered, "I'm sorry, I-"

"It's fine. By the way, what brings you here?"

Homosexuality

"With who? That brave Mr. Dros, you like?"

"The man I loved had died," she said softly.

Pierre knew how deeply she had been obsessed with a man and the struggles she had endured, sinking into that love without realizing it. Every step she had taken forward, every effort she made, was all for him. Pierre knew she would succeed because she deserved all the attention in the world.

But that man had died?

"Oh, that's unfortunate," Pierre sighed. "The man I loved died too."

Seraphina lowered her gaze, falling into silence. He was no longer the person she had once loved the most.

The Orion she had cherished in her heart was long gone.

After all this time, everything has changed. Here she was actually visiting this place with him...

Meanwhile, in the distant castle, the long-dead Orion sneezed loudly. Everyone in the castle went on high alert.

The two stood in quiet contemplation. Suddenly, Pierre lifted his head, and his eyes twinkled.

"Wait, let me introduce you to my first student. He's still single!"

Seraphina's expression remained indifferent. "There's no need."

""He's here!"

So soon?"

Speaking of the devil?

Just as he spoke, Pierre waved excitedly at someone behind her. Seraphina turned around, her expression freezing, her eyes widening in shock. Mr. Rockwell?"

Standing there in a refined suit was none other than Wilson!

When he saw Seraphina, he was just as surprised, though his expression quickly shifted back to his usual composed and calm demeanor. His brows lifted slightly. "Ms. Cross, what are you doing here?"

"You two know each other?" Pierre was even more stunned.

Seraphina and Wilson both nodded.

Pierre couldn't help but shake his head.

"Well, isn't this a fortunate coincidence?"

The two stood there awkwardly cilent for a moment

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Homosexuality

Seraphina frowned and said, "Don't overthink it. We've worked together on a few business projects."

She wasn't lying.

Pierre suddenly nodded in understanding. He said, "I completely forgot. I only have two students, and both of you are big players in the business world and regulars on the Forbes list. Of course, you'd be connected." Wilson chuckled and asked, "Both of us are your students? Therefore, the other person must be Ms. Cross."

Seraphina was even more surprised, her calm façade nearly slipping.

Just how small is this world?