Ch. 41..45: Inherit Billions Chapter 41-45

Chapter 41

Stunning Beauty

I ucius was rather surprised, Orion's expression made evident that he was mad.

# it because of his ex-wifer

ea

Aron couldn't figure out what he said wrong. Everyone knew Orion had been forced into that marriage.

The internet celebrity girl was trembling with fear. She thought she had a shot at clinging onto someone more powerful, but now she couldn't even speak.

"Orion... "Aron cast a glance at Lucius and asked for his help.

Lucius was about to speak when Orion let out a cold sneer. He mocked, "Aron, why don't you just work for my family as a butler?"

Afterwards. Orion stood up and walked away, leaving Aron behind with a pale face.

Lucius quickly caught up with Orion. There had to be something about Seraphina. That woman was trouble. He clicked his tongue and probed, "Why do you look so upset? We're all friends here. You know Aron speaks without thinking. Don't take it to heart." Orion knew he had overreacted. He didn't expect to lose control of his emotions. However, he found out that those hidden truths had hit him hard. Was this the cause of Seraphina's hatred for him? His chest felt tight and uneasy.

When he stood at the door, the cold wind cleared his mind. Orion lit a cigarette and said, "I know. Just tell him that I wasn't mad at him."

He was mad at himself.

Lucius sighed with relief and said, "Sure, but are you still thinking about that woman?"

Orion shot him a sideways glance. He snorted, apparently too lazy to respond to his probing. "Your restaurant can't compete with this place; just close it down."

Lucius' face darkened with anger, and he chided, "What kind of friend are you?"

The Giant Group's anniversary celebration was a grand event, where celebrities, business tycoons, and politicians were among the guests. Everyone who attended the occasion was rich and influential. Seraphina had done her homework. The Giant Group, though new, had rapidly risen to a large scale in a few years and became renowned. It was impressive to be able to do this.

Their core business focused on 'technology, intelligence, and lifestyle'. Giant Group's core technology was at a level that made many countries pale in comparison.

If they could secure this Al project, the Cross Group could start a whole new frontier in this field.

Therefore, Seraphina came well prepared.

11:32 Tue Oct it

Chapter al Coming Beauty

woman standing at the entrance.

finjste

Thes terngnised the man at Sivir Cross from the Cross Group. This man was known for his ruthless and decisive methods

Beside him was a snmming woman with exquisite makeup and stunning features. She had her long curls pinned back, and her gentle appearance concealed a noble air.

She wore a handmade gown adorned with diamonds, and her waist was slender. When this woman stood under the lights, she shone brilliantly, exuding elegance and grace. Some recognised her as Orion's ex-wife.

Hoto could he have divorced such a woman' He must be blinds

Some guests approached and greeted them, "Mr. Cross, your plus one is stunning!

""Mr. Cross, welcome."

Sivir smiled politely, but his smile never reached his eyes. He raised his glass to acknowledge everyone and said, "This is Seraphina, the Vice President of Cross Group. Please take care of her." "She's beautiful and talented. Your plus one must be very capable to hold such a position at Cross Group."

"Impressive, Ms. Seraphina, Please take good care of us in the future."

"We should definitely collaborate sometime."

Seraphina responded gracefully to each person. When the timing was right, Sivir patted her wrist and whispered in her ear, "Mr. Hyatt from the Giant Group is upstairs. Let's go."

This was their real purpose for the trip. Seraphina nodded lightly; her swan-like neck was elegant and fair. Every gesture she made was captivating.

Not far away, Hannah and her friends watched Seraphina receive compliments from the guests. Their expressions were a mix of shock and jealousy. Their carefully chosen dresses paled next to Seraphina's diamond-studded gown, which stole all the attention. Hannah was especially stunned and furious. She had her eye on that Louis Vuitton custom gown for weeks. It was adorned with real diamonds from a famous jewellery brand, worth nearly nine figures. The intention was to keep it exclusive for high-society events. She had tried to rent it but was told it had already been taken and the brand wouldn't produce a replica.

Because the mysterious buyer desire something unique.

Surprisingly, Seraphina was wearing that gown.

What was going on?

Chapter 42

Three-Way Collaboration

Seraphina was once a plain and unremarkable member of the Dros household. She was always keeping her bead down, doing chores, and not daring to speak word. She was as humble as a servant. The woman before them, on the other hand, was proud, confident, and exuded a powerful presence, as if she had undergone a rebirth.

If it weren't for the inappropriate setting. Hannah would love to tell everyone that Seraphina was just an ugly, plain, and shabby woman that the Dros family had abandoned. She wanted to rip off Seraphina's mask and show everyone her true, humble self. "What's going on? Is Seraphina really your sister-in-law She's not ugly at all."

(

"Yeah, she's beautiful! Did you look at her skin? It's lawless. I wonder where she got her beauty treatments done."

"And the man next to her is so handsome and considerate. I just saw your brother looking at her too."

Hannah quickly lowered her gaze to conceal the jealousy in her eyes. She heavily placed her glass on the table and snorted coldly.

"An outcast woman like her, what else can she do besides seducing men? She probably just wants to find a rich man to support her so she can live a life of luxury without worries." When Hannah's friends noticed her displeasure, they all fell silent.

The second floor of the ballroom was quieter. Sivir led Seraphina there. As they approached, a young man with an arrogant demeanour, dressed in a luxurious black shirt, stood up. The two shook hands briefly. Sivir said with a smile and greeting, "Mr. Hyatt, it's been a long time."

Eden Hyatt smiled in response. A mischievous grin played on his lips as he said, "Mr. Cross, good to see you."

Before Sivir could introduce Seraphina, Eden's attention had already shifted to her. His appreciation was measured, not offensive.

"Seraphina is beautiful but also capable. I had rescheduled our meeting and invited you to this event instead. I hope you wouldn't mind."

Seraphina smiled and said, "Of course not. Congratulations on the fifth anniversary of Giant Group! I hope every year from now on we can have successful collaborations." Her words held a double meaning.

Eden grinned and demanded, "Mr. Cross, may I have a word with Seraphina in private? After all, she'll be our liaison if we continue with this collaboration."

"Of course." Sivir was not surprised. He gave Seraphina an encouraging look and then went downstairs to mingle with the other guests.

Standing by the railing on the second floor, Eden and Seraphina faced each other. As they chatted under

1:

32 Tue Oct 8

Three Way Collaboration

I'm curious why you're so confident about this collaboration, Eden askerl.

He was casually swirling the crimson liquid in his glass

Finished

Seraphina raised an eyebrow, a strand of curly hair casually fell across her forehead, adding to her allure.

"Mr. Hyatt. I have presented a very sincere offer, which I believe you have reviewed. Among many investors, my company is the most suitable. Simply put, you have the technology, and I have the money. "Cross Group isn't looking for short-term profits from Giant Group within five years, we're looking for long-term cooperation. I believe we will determine the development of Al technology in the next ten years" Those who offered more money than Cross Group didn't offer as many benefits as Seraphina, while those who did offer more benefits didn't have enough financial backing.

Eden was more than just a businessman; he was also an engineer. He needed to find the most suitable partner for his brainchild.

Seraphina's bold words made Eden re-evaluate the woman in front of him. He shed his playful attitude and turned it into one of seriousness.

"Would you mind a three-way collaboration?" Eden asked, pon

ing.

""With whom?"

Seraphina couldn't believe there was a better fit than Cross Group.

Eden gestured with his glass towards someone behind Seraphina. When she heard the approaching footsteps, Seraphina's heart thumped a little.

Feeling the sudden silence in the hall, she turned around, her smile freezing at the sight.

Of course, there was only one person who could rival her company and force his way into this project. Orion was there.

Chapter 43Yield

Clad in a black suit, Orion exuded an imposing and detached look. His expensive cufflinks were vaguely familiar.

His gaze lingered on Seraphina for a few seconds before he casually greeted Eden.

Eden glanced between the two and asked playfully, "No need for introductions, right? You two must be familiar with each other. Apologies, Seraphina, for not telling you in advance. Regardless of which company is our final partner, Dros Company will be involved in the project."

Facing Seraphina's confused look, Eden smiled and explained, "Since my company's inception, Mr. Dros has funded all my projects."

So that was it.

Orion could be considered a shareholder.

She hadn't expected that Orion had his eyes on the field of artificial intelligence for some time.

If Eden hadn't mentioned it, she wouldn't have known. His openness indicated he genuinely wanted to collaborate with her.

Though unhappy about Orion's involvement, she had to be professional and couldn't miss this opportunity.

Seraphina lowered her eyes and let out a soft smile. She said, "With Dros Company's capabilities, they could completely own the results of this collaboration. Why the need for a three-way partnership?" She raised an eyebrow, glancing sideways at Orion.

"It's a brand-new field, unexplored territory. My company cannot shoulder the risk alone."

His voice was deep and cool, with a slight smile on his lips. "Choosing Giant Group and Cross Group is the right decision. I hope for a pleasant collaboration."

He raised his elegant hand, which was holding a wine glass. Eden clinked glasses with him, and the two men waited for Seraphina.

r

With no other choice, Seraphina offered a cool smile. She gently raised her glass, and the crisp clink of glasses sealed the deal.

She wasn't happy, but she had no choice. Her chest felt tight with frustration.

Eden exhaled a breath of relief. Sensing the tension, he tried to lighten the mood.

"Why don't you two take the first dance? As the opening for the anniversary celebration, it would be the perfect way to announce our collaboration." Orion frowned slightly. Meanwhile, Seraphina smiled as she tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. She apologised, "Sorry, I don't dance."

She paused for a moment, then turned on her heel, ignoring Orion's cold gaze as she walked away.

Viehf.

wain't be smooth. Mr. Dros, you might be the first to have such a messy divorce in high society." Orion's face darkened as he watched her retreating figue. His expression grew even grimmer Doesn't dance?

Haha! Did I imagine seeing her dance in Hansen's restaurant

Suddenly, he recalled Aron's words. A sense of awkwardness replaced Orion's anger.

Maybe he really owed Seraphina.

Despite his frustration, Seraphina still maintained a graceful smile. On the way downstairs, Sivir

(approached, his demeanour gentle as he asked, "Is it settled?"

Seraphina's cold expression showed no joy in securing the deal, puzzling Sivir.

"Orion is a shareholder, and Eden insisted on a three-way partnership."

Finished.

Frozen, Sivir instantly understood Seraphina's coldness. He gently patted her head, his gaze affectionate and warm. "It's okay. Shared risk, shared benefits."

Baffled, she raised an eyebrow as she realised that Orion's concern mirrored those of Cross Group. A three-way partnership indeed had more benefits than drawbacks.

She feels a sense of relief as all her pent-up frustration disappears. She smiled and hooked her arm through Sivir's, resting her chin on his shoulder with a playful pout. "Good thing you reminded me, or I would have cursed them in my heart." Sivir burst out a chuckle. To onlookers, this affectionate scene was strikingly tender.

Orion watched from upstairs briefly as he observed them standing intimately together. Lucius clicked his tongue and sidled up.

"I heard Sivir isn't interested in women. Why is he so invested in this one? They must have some secret relationship!"

Chapter 44

Past and Present

Orion's gaze shifted away, coldly ignoring Lucius. He then descended the stairs to mingle with the guests.

The ballroom buzzed with excitement as Eden whispered a few words to the host, who then took the microphone and went on stage.

"Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the Giant Group's anniversary celebration! To commemorate this memorable day, on behalf of Mr. Hyatt, l'in thrilled to announce that the partners for Giant Group's latest project are Dros Company and Cross Group Now, please welcome Mr. Orion and Ms. Seraphina to open the party with a dance!"

Cheers erupted throughout the room.

Seraphina was momentarily stunned when she heard her name cue. She had no desire to get involved with Orion, but she had no choice when all eyes were focused on her.

The awkwardness of their post-divorce reunion added an air of mystery to their coincidental partnership.

Orion hadn't expected this either; it was undoubtedly Eden's doing.

Still hesitant, Seraphina saw Orion already approaching. His presence was cold and composed as he bent down and extended his hand to invite her to dance.

They drew everyone's attention.

Clearly, refusing the invitation was not an option. Any negative impression at the start of their collaboration could be detrimental.

Sivir watched his sister with concern. Seraphina smiled calmly and placed her hand in Orion's.

The crowd parted to create a path for them. Seraphina held her head high and walked forward without looking around. Orion's hands were cool to touch. In that moment, he realised that during their three-year marriage, they'd never had a wedding or held hands like this before. This was the first time.

A brief glance revealed Seraphina's long, beautiful fingers, as delicate as works of art. He etched this detail into his memory.

The band started to play the music. The enchanting music filled the hall with joyful, lingering notes.

As Seraphina placed her hand on Orion's shoulder, their eyes met in the air. His deep, dark gaze fixed on her face, while his hand settled on her slender waist. Seraphina's body tensed momentarily; she was overcome with unease.

In their three years of marriage, they'd never been this close. This unexpected scenario, post-divorce, was rather surprising.

Seconds later, Seraphina regained her composure. Her waist moved gracefully to the music. She wore a false, indifferent smile on her face.

Her confident dance steps and poised demeanour captivated the audience, while the music drowned out their words.

"You don't know how to dance, hmm?" Orion's voice was low and cool, almost seductive.

#wisted

Seraphina raised an eyebrow and replied. Depends on who's asking

Bhim and unyielding

Orion's eyes darkened imperceptibly. Their movement flowed seamlessly as the music's terripo quickened. He tightened his grip on her waist slightly.

I didn't realise you had business acumen. Is partnering with Eden your company's idea or your own?"

Seraphina spun elegantly beneath his arm, their bodies merging in a smooth motion.

"There are many things you don't know about me, but I don't need to tell you." Her smile held a hint of mockery.

Throughout their three-year marriage, he had never taken the time to truly understand his wife. Was it necessary to share after their divorce?

For Orion, three years of marriage were merely a fleeting phase of his life.

But for Seraphina, they were a searing lesson.

Chapter 45

An Accidental Kiss

The spotlight enveloped them both. Orion was stunningly handsome, his sharp features left all the women in awe Seraphina's dress fluttered with their dance step. Her graceful figure and striking features make her movements mesmerising. At that moment, if time had frozen, everyone would have felt their breath

catch

All eyes were on the16. Despite the perfect harmony of their movements, there was no spark of enthusiasm between them.

Seraphina, to be precise, had no interest in engaging with him. She just wanted the dance to end quickly. being close to Orion made her uncomfortable.

Orion's gaze was piercing, studying her face with a calm intensity. The music shifted, signalling that the dance was nearing its conclusion.

His body leaned forward. Coincidentally, Seraphina instinctively tilted her head back, and her swan-like neck arched gracefully. Just as the music ended, Orion didn't pull back; instead, she followed the music and straightened up her back. Their lips met unexpectedly-one soft and tender, the other cold and firm.

As the final note stretched and ended abruptly, it seemed to capture the moment in time.

The camera lights flickered.

Seraphina was holding a wine glass. As she stood by the railing on the second floor, she gently swirled it.

As Orion walked by in the distance, he looked up at that moment and suddenly met Seraphina's cold gaze.

Seraphina nonchalantly looked away. She ignored the discomfort inside her. The kiss on the dance floor had made everyone gasp. She believed nobody cared about the messed-up dance steps-they were just waiting for a show between exes. Any reaction would fuel endless speculation.

As his lips were about to touch her, Seraphina quickly turned her face away. Fortunately, the music ended and allowed her to withdraw in time. She gave Orion a cold glance before walking away without a second thought.

Lucius was standing next to Orion. He finally managed to send off some guests after much effort. Lucius was relieved as he looked at Orion, whose noble and cold demeanour was evident. Recalling the previous scene, Lucius scowled slightly before expressing his thoughts.

"Dude, you did that on purpose, didn't you?"

Others might not see through this, but Seraphina's dance steps were perfect. The problem was with Orion.

This guy had been trained in elite aristocratic education since childhood. How could he be slow to react while dancing?

Could it be intentional?

Orion's dark eyes swept over Lucius, and his jawline tightened.

11:33 Tue Oct 8 **

An Accidental Kiss

"No," he denied

finished

Good Don't get any ideas about that woman. I must be insane to even entertain such a thought. It must be that woman's doing. Imph, she's indeed very calculating!"

Lucius naturally trusted his buddy's words more!

Any seeds of doubt vanished upon Orion's confirmation.

On the second floor of the ballroom.

Sivir was busy socialising elsewhere. Seraphina was bored. She looked around and suddenly saw someone waving at her from the door. She smiled and waved back. Hansen soon appeared beside her. ""You're late."

Hansen leaned casually against the railing, carefree and relaxed. He detailed, "I came because I wanted to. If I hadn't heard you were here, I wouldn't have bothered."

"Don't use me as an excuse. Clearly, it's your father that made you show up here," Seraphina retorted, rolling her eyes at him.

Hansen wasn't embarrassed when she saw through his lie. He gunned and said, "Well, my goal is to see

you."

Seraphina was about to reply when she turned and saw a group approaching. Her expression instantly darkened.

"Seraphina, have you no shame? You've divorced my brother, yet you still try to seduce him. Do you think you can crawl back to my family? Let me tell you, our family doesn't want a woman like you!" Tonight, it seemed like everything she hated was happening all at once. Hannah stormed over with her friends, ready to give Seraphina a piece of her mind.

Seraphina had already made a big impression tonight, especially with that final kiss. Everyone was speculating about a grand reconciliation between the high-society couple.