Ch. 401..405: Inherit Billions Chapter 401-405
Chapter 401 Accountability
Billy felt a sudden pang of anxiety; everything had been going too smoothly for him here.
He wasn't a professional researcher; all his insights into the development results came through Aiden. Because he represented Seraphina, both Aiden and Orion's people treated him with great respect. He had always believed that with Seraphina involved, this collaboration was a three-way partnership that wouldn't encounter any problems.
But now... something monumental had happened, something that could only be described as a catastrophe.
Seraphina stepped out in her high heels, her demeanor calm as people greeted her. She nodded and smiled, giving nothing away.
On the surface, there was no sign of trouble, but that changed when she reached Aiden's office door.
His secretary was surprised to see her. He asked, "Ms. Dros, what brings you here so suddenly?"
Seraphina smiled lightly. "Is Aiden in?"
The secretary nodded. "Yes, he is."
She acknowledged him but didn't wait for him to announce her; she simply pushed the door open.
Inside, Aiden was on a phone call. He looked surprised when he saw Seraphina enter.
After hanging up, he approached her with a smile, though the coolness of her expression immediately made him uneasy. "Seraphina, what a surprise! I was just thinking we should grab lunch together. There's a new restaurant nearby."
Seraphina fixed him with a piercing gaze and suddenly smiled, but it was anything but warm.
"Aiden, is Giant Group going bankrupt?"
Aiden's face tightened, and his eyes narrowed.
"Seraphina, please get straight to the point."
"You
gave the research department a holiday; surely that should have gone through the board's approval? During the break, no one was assigned to oversee the project, leading to a complete halt in development. Isn't that a sign that you're heading for bankruptcy?" Her words were sharp and unapologetic; she couldn't remain polite.
It wasn't just about Wilson's contract-Cross Group was a direct partner, and they all stood to lose.
Aiden's eyes flickered, revealing his growing guilt.
However, without that person's orders, he wouldn't have the nerve.
"You're misunderstanding. It was just a short break. After resolving the issues with the Al vehicles,
Chapter 401 Accountability
Seraphina let out a cold chuckle and asked, "A short break? A random two-week holiday? You delayed the development schedule intentionally to sabotage Wilson's project, didn't you?"
Aiden pursed his lips and denied, "Of course not..."
"I was the one who recommended Wilson for your company's collaboration. If you want to terminate the partnership, we can follow the proper procedure, but engaging in underhanded tactics is beneath you." "It wasn't me."
"Then who was it?" Seraphina pressed.
The atmosphere in the office grew heavy.
Aiden looked at Seraphina, realizing she meant business. Suddenly, Aiden felt he had gone too far.
This mess jeopardized not only Wilson but also his primary partner-Cross Group.
With their interests at stake, how could Seraphina remain indifferent?
Yet, if he betrayed Orion, it wouldn't just harm their relationship; it could very well end the three-way collaboration altogether.
In that fleeting moment of hesitation, Seraphina narrowed her eyes as if realizing something.
"Who was behind this?"
Aiden's lips pressed tightly together, and his expression turned anxious.
"It was...
I should have considered this more thoroughly. I'll have everyone cancel their vacations
immediately."
"I think this is more complicated than that."
Seraphina's gaze was calm yet unwavering. She said, "I'll instruct the legal department to draft a contract limiting the research progress timeline. My company will send a professional team to regularly check the development results. If you fail to deliver, we can terminate the collaboration at any time. After all, Giant Group isn't Cross Group's only option."
Aiden's expression darkened slightly. Though he maintained a composed facade, he was filled with regret.
Clearing his throat, he softened his tone.
"We need to talk about this. How about we grab a meal together?"
Seraphina smirked, the coldness returning to her smile
"There's nothing to discuss, Aiden. Our relationship isn't at a point where we can joke about company interests. You should realize how significant the losses have been these past few days, and you must bear the responsibility." Feeling the pressure, Aiden grew genuinely tense. Seraphina's assertiveness and professionalism surpassed even Orion's.
However, he was unable to betrav Orion at this time.
Chapter 401 Accountability
"Ms. Dros, I can compensate for the losses, but...
"There are no buts." Seraphina interrupted coldly and said, "I'm the one who has the upper hand here."
With that, she spun around, her high heels clicking as she strode out.
The moment Seraphina left, Aiden immediately called Orion.
This was all Orion's fault; he had intended to teach Wilson a lesson but had offended Seraphina instead.
When Orion answered, Aiden recounted everything that had just transpired, rubbing his temples in frustration.
"Mr. Dros, I've done my best, but Ms. Dros is still furious. If we actually start investigating the progress, it'll only complicate things further."
There was silence on the other end.
Aiden thought the call had dropped.
"I'm helpless in this situation," Orion finally replied.
Aiden was taken aback.
"What?"
That wasn't the response he had hoped for.
""Don't betray me," Orion added.
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Chapter 402 Warning
As Seraphina drove back to the company, her phone rang. It was Orion.
Initially, she considered not picking up the call, but after a moment's he she answered. "Mr. Dros, is there something you need?"
Orion's voice was warm and upbeat, clearly struggling to contain his good mood. ood mood.
"I just found out what Aiden has done, and it's outrageous! Despite being the director of Giant Group, I was completely unaware of Aiden's actions. I've issued a stern warning, so don't worry-this won't delay the project." Seraphina fell silent momentarily before letting out a scoff.
"Do you take me as a fool?"
Did Aiden really have the audacity to delay things?
No, he must be acting on someone else's orders!
-Orion also fell silent, then pretended to be taken aback and asked, "What do you mean? Are you suggesting that you think I'm the one who directed Aiden's unauthorized decisions? I would never mix business with personal." A wave of tension washed over Orion. If Seraphina was truly angry, all his past efforts would be for nothing.
He couldn't accept that.
The nervousness gnawed at him; each second of her hesitation felt like a torment, cutting at his heart.
Finally, she let out a cold chuckle, her voice chilling.
"Orion, you've truly changed my perception of you."
With no interest in hearing his defense, Seraphina decisively hung up the phone.
Thomas approached her desk to make a report. He noted her grim expression and asked with concern, "Ms. Cross, are you feeling unwell? Should I call a doctor?"
Seraphina's expression stiffened slightly, her voice calm and cold. "No need."
Quickly, she focused on the documents in front of her and signed her name on the paper.
Then she turned to Thomas and urged, "Tell the legal department to expedite the ownership agreement with the Giant Group. No matter what demands they make, we will not comply."
Thomas was taken aback. It was the first time he had witnessed such a decisive break from any room for negotiation.
"Understood."
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Chapter 402 Warning
This time, Giant Group was in the wrong, and they wouldn't dare refuse Seraphina's conditions.
Suddenly, her phone buzzed. It was a message from Wilson. "Seraphina, would you like to join me for dinner tonight?" Seraphina paused for a moment, then another message came in,
We are celebrating the successful launch of the project
She smiled.
Wilson always found pleasant and non-pressuring reasons to invite her out. Reflecting on her own faults, she decided to use this opportunity to apologize. "Sure," she replied.
After agreeing on a time and place, Seraphina drove straight to the restaurant.
It was an upscale private establishment, featuring semi-open seating arrangements rather than completely enclosed booths. Unless one intentionally peeked, it was difficult to see the people around them.
As Seraphina glanced around, she noted the serene, quiet atmosphere, more suited for couples than for business meetings.
Wilson had chosen a table by the window. It was the perfect spot for enjoying the view. A gentle halo of light surrounded his profile, giving him an almost ethereal quality, devoid of any worldly distractions.
As she approached, Wilson spotted her immediately. He stood up and pulled out the chair across from him.
"I also heard great things about this place, especially the desserts. They say girls love them."
His thoughtful gesture was more than just a professional courtesy; Seraphina understood this but chose not to address it.
She offered him no expectations, nor would she give him any response.
"Thank you."
Wilson smiled warmly, his demeanor calm and studious, with an air of quiet intellect.
"Yesterday, Aiden came to my hotel to apologize. He said many nice things and asked me to speak well of him in front of you. I realized that I owe this to you."
Seraphina chuckled lightly and said, "It's nothing. It's what I ought to do. My company is also a partner, and I have recommended Giant Group to you. Should they delay their progress, I would opt for a different company.
Wilson was momentarily stunned, not expecting such straightforwardness from Seraphina. But soon, he understood.
Leaked into who the stakeholders of Giant Group were.
Chapter 402 Warning
She must direct her firmness towards a specific person.
Quickly, Wilson changed the topic.
They exchanged casual banter. Seraphina asked about
He recounted the story of Dani receiving the entire box cried all night and wouldn't stop no matter how they co
The atmosphere lightened considerably as they joked a
Just then, the waiter's cheerful greeting of 'Welcome' br
A few seconds later, a cold gaze fixed itself on the two of
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Chapter 402 Warning
000.93%°
She must direct her firmness towards a specific person.
Quickly, Wilson changed the topic.
They exchanged casual banter. Seraphina asked about little Dani's recent activities.
He recounted the story of Dani receiving the entire box of workbooks from Seraphina. The little boy had cried all night and wouldn't stop no matter how they consoled him.
The atmosphere lightened considerably as they joked and laughed together.
Just then, the waiter's cheerful greeting of 'Welcome' broke the moment, as it was somewhat abrupt.
A few seconds later, a cold gaze fixed itself on the two of them through the window.
Chapter 403 Jealousy
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A chill crept up Seraphina's spine. Before she could react, a cold, firm arm suddenly draped over her shoulder. It tightened around her waist in a way that left no room for refusal, and then he sat down beside her.
Seraphina was briefly stunned. Orion smiled, but his dark eyes stared at her with an intensity that unnerved her.
Gritting his teeth, he said, "What a coincidence, my dear?"
The words-no, the way he addressed her-instantly cool the atmosphere to an icy silence.
"Let go," she shot back, her gaze icy.
"Seraphina!" He called her name, suppressing a tide of emotions swirling beneath the surface.
How could this woman be so heartless?
He had humbly pursued her, persistently asking her out for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but she had consistently refused.
And now, here she was, enjoying dinner with Wilson?
So, she just didn't want to eat with him?
It infuriated him.
He felt a burning need to retaliate against this indignation.
Across from them, Wilson's eyes dimmed momentarily, but he quickly broke the tension with a smile.
"Mr. Dros, everyone's watching. Shouldn't you give Ms. Cross a little respect?"
Naturally, a small entourage accompanied Orion out for dinner.
It was merely a coincidence that he ran into these two.
His gaze turned colder, as if encased in ice. With clenched teeth, he slowly retracted his hand from her waist.
Orion couldn't ignore Seraphina's dignity; otherwise, it would make Wilson look far more reasonable than he actually was.
"Mr. Rockwell certainly seems to have a lot of free time. While your own business flounders, you things that are none of your concern," he remarked pointedly.
focus on
"Mr. Dros, you're a busy man. You shouldn't keep people waiting. We can't afford to keep them on edge; let's hurry along," Wilson replied, his smile warm but his eyes sharp with challenge. They were both vying for the same opportunity, and neither would back down easily.
The thought that Wilson had met Seraphina's family unsettled Orion, making his chest heave dramatically. How could he stand the idea of those two dining together, alone?
Chapter 403 Jealousy
Glancing toward the group he had brought along, Orion ordered, "Ken, take them inside. I'll join you shortly."
"Yes, sir."
Ken nodded and politely led the others to seats further away.
Orion's gaze settled on Seraphina's calm expression, her indifference only deepening his frown. His expression darkened.
Yet he dared not confront her directly. Instead, he turned his attention to Wilson.
Turning back to Seraphina, he forced a gentle tone, adopting a feigned intimacy as he reached out to tuck stray hair behind her ear.
"I'll be right back. You should eat something; don't let yourself go hungry," he said, projecting a façade of
concern.
To Seraphina, he was just putting on a show again-playing the caring gentleman.
It was almost comical how much he had elevated his act.
Ignoring him, she took a bite of dessert, completely dismissing his presence.
Orion's face turned glum as he shot a warning glare at Wilson before rising to leave.
Wilson watched his retreating figure, a thoughtful look on his face.
"Mr. Dros seems to have changed quite a bit," he remarked.
Seraphina looked up at him, her expression thoughtful "Maybe he's just feeling the pressure."
Wilson smiled but said nothing, sensing that something had transpired between them.
Orion entered the private room and toasted the group, then he stepped back out, leaving the rest to Ken.
His mind was elsewhere; he couldn't bear to be in that moment any longer.
Seeing Seraphina and Wilson sharing laughter made his heart heavy.
As he approached, he interrupted their conversation, his voice laced with jealousy.
"What are you two chatting about so happily?"
Wilson glanced at Seraphina, who was leisurely sipping her coffee; her fingers looked like polished porcelain in the light-so beautiful, like a work of art.
For a brief moment, he was lost in thought before he spoke up, "Ms. Cross shared a joke. Would you like to hear it, Mr. Dros?"
Seraphina looked at Wilson but didn't say anything further.
Orion's gaze darkened, His teeth were almost grinding together in frustration.
Haha she's telling inbes to Wilson?
Chapter 404 Ride to the Hotel
As they settled into their seats, Orion's leg casually brushed against Seraphina's beneath the table. She wore a short skirt that ended just above her knees, and instinctively, she shifted slightly to the side. Noticing her reaction, Orion deliberately nudged her leg again. In that moment, it felt like a jolt of electricity surged through him, striking straight at his heart.
He stole a glance at her and found he couldn't look away.
Her slender, smooth calf was astonishingly beautiful, captivating enough to make his heart race with desire.
But after a few seconds, he quickly diverted his gaze; he couldn't afford to look any longer, or things would get complicated.
Seraphina shot him a cold glance but didn't attempt to evade his touch. Instead, she kicked him hard.
For an instant, pain flashed across his face, leaving him pale.
F*ck, she's ruthless!
The commotion was minimal, and Wilson remained oblivious to the under-the-table happenings.
Orion maintained a casual smile, as if nothing had happened. He said, "Dining with Mr. Rockwell is actually quite enjoyable. If you all plan to meet again, make sure to invite me."
He glanced at Seraphina. She rolled her eyes at him before addressing Wilson. "Mr. Rockwell, I think we've had enough. I'll head home now. Goodbye."
Wilson hesitated for a moment before speaking up, "Ms. Cross, there's something I'd like to ask of you."
Seraphina looked at him curiously.
"I'll be going abroad for a few days to handle some matters. I'm not comfortable leaving little Dani alone here. Could you keep an eye on him for a few days? His maid and bodyguard will still be here, but I'm worried that boy would cause trouble." Seraphina immediately understood the situation.
From the side, a sarcastic voice chimed in, "If you're so worried, why not just take him with you? Why keep bothering others?"
Dani was, after all, a little rascal who often caused him trouble.
"Sure, I'll send someone to pick him up. He can stay at my home for now," Seraphina replied.
Orion's expression froze slightly; he wasn't too pleased
But he didn't voice any more useless complaints.
Wilson smiled and said, "I appreciate it, really."
No one paid any attention to Orion's displeasure as Seraphina turned to leave.
Sun,
Chapter 404 Ride to the Hotel
Naturally, Orion followed closely behind.
Once in the car, Orion took the passenger seat.
Seraphina didn't drive; instead, she stared blankly at the dimly lit street ahead.
"Don't you have a car?" Orion asked.
"I had a few drinks." He replied, subtly indicating that he simply didn't want to drive. "I can't drive, and my driver is inside drinking too." "Seraphina, can you avoid meeting him alone in the future? You know I can't stand it." His voice dropped to a low, husky plea. Seraphina remained unfazed. She tapped the steering wheel, let out a cold laugh, and started the engine.
"Where are we going?" Orion inquired.
"To the hotel," she said.
Orion paused, his heart leaping in excitement, but then he realized that they were heading in the opposite direction of any hotel.
Wait, perhaps she was trying to keep it discreet and going to a hotel farther away?
Orion's heart raced with a mix of struggle and exhilaration like never before.
The darkness of the night wrapped around them, the streetlights casting a soft glow, transforming the cold wind into something gentle, almost comforting. However, after a while, something felt increasingly wrong.
The scenery outside changed; the trees and greenery became denser.
Clearly, they had entered the suburbs.
Are we genuinely driving out of town just to find a hotel?
Orion glanced at the fuel gauge and frozen. It's empty!
Before he could voice his concern, the car suddenly came to a halt.
He stared at her, bewildered.
Without warning, Seraphina turned toward him and threw herself into his chest.
His heart skipped a beat. Before he could respond, the door on his right swung open and his seatbelt unbuckled.
Cold air rushed in, snapping him back to reality.
Is she planning to kick me out?
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Chapter 404 Ride to the Hotel
Orion pressed his lips together tightly, his gaze darkening.
Seraphina lifted her chin, her voice as cold as the wind. "Get out."
No extra words were needed.
A chill ran through Orion as he stepped out of the car.
"If I offended you earlier, I apologize."
He knew he had to tread carefully.
Seraphina closed the car door and rolled down the window, turning her head to look at him.
But instead of addressing the earlier incident, she asked another question.
"Did you orchestrate the halting of the Giant Group project?"
Chapter 405 The Guardian Dani
A sudden jolt ran through Orion's heart. "No, it wasn't me."
Seraphina rolled up her car window and started the engine, smoothly turning the vehicle around and kicking up a cloud of dust.
They were in the middle of nowhere-Surely, she wouldn't really leave me here?
I couldn't go back to the city, even though I walked all night.
Tension surged through Orion as he clenched his fists. Realizing the situation was dire, he stepped in front of the car.
"If I tell you the truth, can we move past this?"
At his words, Seraphina let out a laugh.
Orion's stomach dropped. Dammit! Did I just admit that I was the one who sabotaged the project?
Seraphina rolled up her window, her indifferent gaze making Orion's heart sink.
Then, in an instant, the car shot forward like an arrow, forcing him to stumble back a step. He watched her drive away, standing frozen in place, his brow furrowed. He then looked down; a faint chuckle escaped his lips.
Tsk! It seemed like I had truly fallen into her hand. Hard.
But as the night deepened and the chilly wind whistled around him, he suddenly felt a sense of foreboding.
With a grim expression, Orion dialed Ken's number.
Meanwhile, little Dani had learned that during Wilson's trip abroad, he would be staying at Seraphina's house. The news filled him with such joy that he couldn't sleep all night. Wilson stood at the door, arms crossed, watching Dani stuff his clothes and toys into an enormous suitcase.
It seemed like Dani wanted to take everything he owned with him.
Just how much did he dislike the hotel?
The maid and bodyguard rolled up their sleeves to help, their expressions indicating that moving to the Crosses would lighten their workload as well. Wilson cleared his throat, focusing on Dani.
"You need to behave while I'm away."
Dani waved his hand dismissively and showed no sign of being reluctant for him to leave.
"Don't worry, Daddy! I'll take good care of Ms. Lovely. Nope, Ms. Lovely will take good care of me!"
10:36 Sun, No
Chapter 405 The Guardian Dani
Wilson smirked. Could it be that his son cared more for Ms. Lovely than for him?
If he hadn't been so keen on keeping Orion away from Seraphina, he would have taken Dani with him.
Dani's stay with Seraphina posed an obstacle for Orion
"Try not to disturb Ms, Cross too much. After all, she has other suitors, like Mr. Dros from Dros Group. He's quite infatuated with Ms. Cross." Dani's eyes widened as he jumped off the bed.
He looked up at Wilson, pouting. "No way! Ms. Lovely is mine-just mine! That Mr. Wicked can't get near her, and I won't allow it!"
Finally, with Wilson gone, he could openly be with Seraphina and nurture their relationship!
As for Orion, there was no chance he would ever get close to Seraphina.
Noticing Dani's puffing his cheeks, Wilson smiled with satisfaction.
With a son like that beside Seraphina, he could leave for his business trip without a worry.
Satisfied, Wilson returned to his room to rest.
Little Dani hurriedly directed the servants to pack his things. He even called Seraphina to let her know he would come over himself the next day-no need for anyone to pick him up. He simply couldn't wait to see her.
As dawn broke, there was a commotion at the entrance of Cross Mansion.
Dani, with his backpack slung over his shoulders, stood in the living room face-to-face with the still-sleepy Justin.
Suddenly, he grinned and hugged Justin's leg. "Good morning, Justin."
Justin was momentarily taken aback. How had this kid become even sweeter since the last time?
Was he made of cotton candy?
After a short play session with Dani, Justin stood up to gather his things and headed out of the house.
Seraphina finished her chores and came downstairs, her heart softening at the sight of Dani happily playing on the floor.
After arranging a room for him, she found him looking up at her with longing as she prepared to leave.
Unable to bear the thought of him being lonely, Seraphina decided to take him to the office with her.
Once at the company, she got busy and was relieved to find Dani preoccupied with his online classes, not causing any trouble. At noon, Seraphina took him to a nearby restaurant for lunch.
Surprisingly Orion had shown in at the same restaurant