NovelOnlineLeonardo replied, "I'm simply stating the facts. You invited me here, and here | am. My presence isn't without purpose.” The nearby reporters stirred, their initial reason for attendance overshadowed by the unfolding —they sensed a significant story.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtJust then, a sleek Rolls-Royce glided to a stop at the entrance. A man emerged, impeccably dressed in a suit, his polished leather shoes clicking against the white steps. His steps weren't loud, but they resonated, drawing all eyes to him.
A wave of surprise swept through the onlookers as they shifted their attention to the entrance. The question hung in the air among them, 'ls that the CEO of the Jardin Corporation?" Zach's presence was commanding, his intimidating aura palpable as he approached, a hand casually tucked in his pocket, while a chilly breeze trailed behind him, making everyone around shudder.
"Kevin," Zach's voice cut through the cold.
Kevin responded, "Yes, Mr. Jardin." Approaching Serena, Kevin relayed, "Ms. Smith, Mr. Jardin has come to reclaim an item you allegedly took from Ms. Jent." Serena's composure wavered, and she instinctively stepped back at Zach's approach, her reaction a mix of intimidation and perhaps a hint of guilt.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm"I don't know what you're referring to!" she countered, her voice tinged with panic. "I've been accused of theft, yet there's no proof. Without evidence, these claims are groundless, and | won't hesitate to involve the police if this continues.” Kevin replied, "Being stubborn at this point won't benefit you at all. Mr. Jardin has already given you time, but you remain uncooperative. And I'd like to advise you one last time—return what does not belong to you." As Zach neared, Mya retreated behind Leonardo, her movements quiet, her fear evident.
Zach spoke, "There's a limit to my patience. Persist in your obstinacy, and | can't promise the continuation of this exhibition." With a subtle gesture from Zach, a cadre of bodyguards poured in, each brandishing a police baton. Without hesitation, they began to demolish the paintings hanging on the walls.
Serena's composure shattered. She lunged forward in a desperate attempt to halt the destruction, crying out, "Stop! All of you, just stop! This is my life's work. How could you... How could you do this?!" Moments before, concern had etched her face; now, she was a portrait of hysteria.
Zach watched her dispassionately. "Three minutes, Serena Smith. Produce what I'm after, or this wreckage will be just the start.” Mya, seizing an opportunity, slipped away upstairs quietly.
Serena, amidst the wreckage of her artwork, lashed out in fury, "Zach Jardin, you think you rule Ventropolis? With all the press here, do you think you'll escape the headlines tomorrow? "So many reporters are here. Aren't you afraid that your actions today will be reported in the newspaper tomorrow? "You were nothing without the Young family's backing. You can't erase your past, no matter how high you climb. You're the shameless one. You're the real thief, having taken everything, even the Arnolds’ stature in Ventropolis.” Zach's demeanor remained cool and unbothered, as if he placed little importance on anyone's opinion.
His boldness stemmed from his current hold over Ventropolis—he controlled the city's pulses. The presence of reporters did not faze him; his influence was such that none would dare pen a negative word about him.
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