HIS MOTHER-IN-LAW S3DUC3D HIM UNTIL HE GOT HER PREGNANT.

1

Veronica was not your typical mother-in-law. I mean, not every mother-in-law is the same; some come with prayers, wrappers, and love, while others come with lipstick, secrets, and destr--uction. Veronica was the second kind.

She was the kind of woman who never accepted she was old, always saying things like, "I'm still h--ot," or "I'm still in town." She dressed like a teenager: short, see-through skirts, crop tops, long eyelashes, and heavy makeup that made people stare.

She walked like the streets still belonged to her, spoke with bold confidence, and never accepted that age had touched her. She didn't visit her daughters like a normal mother; she showed up like she was coming for a nightclub audition.

To Veronica, her daughter's husband wasn't family; he was an opportunity, another fine man she could lay in b--ed with. And she did it – not once, not twice, but multiple times. She wasn't just a problem; she was a st--orm.

Meanwhile, across town, Nancy, her daughter, lived a very different life. Nancy was the kind of woman every man would be proud to have. Her skin was smooth like ripe mango, and her smile could calm a crying baby. She was kind, quiet, and very hardworking. Everyone who met her said the same thing: "This girl is wife material."

Nancy had a man, his name was Aika. He was tall like a coconut tree, with skin that shone like polished wood. His voice was soft, his steps gentle, and his heart was full of love.

He had big houses, fine cars, big businesses, and plenty of money in the bank. But above all, he had only one thing in mind: to marry Nancy and start a peaceful life with her.

Nancy had everything a young woman could wish for: a good job, a gentle man, and a heart full of joy. But inside her chest, under her happiness, there was a small fear, a quiet fear that stayed like a lizard behind cardboard.

That fear was her mother, Veronica. Veronica was her mother by b--lood, yes, but she was not like other mothers. She was different, and Nancy knew deep down in her heart that if anything was ever going to spoil her joy, it would come from that woman.

But she never said it out loud; she just smiled and kept planning her wedding.

Veronica was not a mother like Mama Anki or Mama Zab; she was different, very different.

She had Nancy when she was just a small girl herself, a teenager. Her parents chased her out of the house when they saw her belly growing like a yam.

She cried, she begged, but they shut the door and told her, "Go and face what you started." From that day, Veronica began to suffer under the hot sun.

She carried oranges on her head, she sold sachet water in traffic, she begged strangers for coins. Her feet were always dusty, and her stomach always empty.

But Veronica had something: beauty. She was fine, too fine. Her skin glowed, her bo--dy curved like a question mark, and men started to notice. One man came one night; he offered her food and a soft bed, but he wanted her bo--dy in return. She agreed. That night, her life changed.

That was how Veronica entered the world of easy money: one man today, another man tomorrow. She began to wear short clothes, paint her li--ps red like tomatoes, and walk with her che--st high like a peacock.

She went from sleeping on cartons to sleeping in hotels, from begging for food to buying fried rice at night.

To be continued after 20 shares...

Psalm 85:8
“I will hear what God the Lord will speak, For He will speak peace to His people and to His saints; But let them not turn back to folly."
We thank you, Lord Jesus Christ for the opportunity of yet another brand new day. Thank you for your love and care, for safety, favours and provisions. You endured the pain on the cross and died a shameful death that we may have a new life. Make us hear you speak loudly into the silence of our hearts; that counting our blessings one after the other, we may truly see the wonders you have done in our lives. Amen.
Good morning. Have a pleasantly fruitful day.

Bravery comes with a Price

Tragic Hero: Ehigie D1es a Brave Man, Rescuing Host@g3s From K1dn@pp3rs in Edo Forest

By; Chris Osa Uhunmwangho

On a quiet Easter afternoon, in the heart of Edo State’s dense forest, a story of courage and sacrifice unfolded—one that will be etched in the memory of Udo-Eguare and beyond.

Ehigie, a skilled wood saw operator and hunter, set out on what should have been a routine trip through familiar terrain. But fate had something far greater in store. Deep within the forest, he stumbled upon a horrifying scene: a group of armed K1dn@pp3rs had taken several innocent people host@g3.

With no time to weigh his odds, Ehigie acted on instinct. He fired a warning shot into the air, startling the kidnappers and throwing their ranks into confusion. In that fleeting moment of chaos, he seized the opportunity to free eight captives and guided them through a hidden escape route only a seasoned hunter would know.

But bravery often comes at a steep price.

The kidnappers, enraged and regrouped, pursued him. When their gunfir3 failed to bring him down, they attacked with brute force—using heavy woods to overwhelm him. Despite his fierce resistance, Ehigie was tragically killed.

In a cruel aftermath, the att@ck3rs blocked the Ugbenin/Udo Road, attempting to snatch more victims. Two bystanders were injured by gunfire but are currently receiving treatment in Ubiaja. Miraculously, those Ehigie saved have since been reunited with their families—alive because of his incredible valor.

Ehigie leaves behind a young wife and three children. Though his life was cut short, his legacy is one of selfless heroism. He gave everything to protect others—an act that demands not only recognition but support from the community and government alike.

Let Ehigie’s name be remembered—not just as a man who died, but as one who chose to fight for others when it mattered most.

— Chris Osa Media

MATURITY IS A MINDSET, NOT AGE. HERE ARE 14 SIGNS YOU ARE MATURE :

You are not scared to be alone.

You realize money is not evil. Lack of money is.

You know that you are your worst enemy and you are your best supporter too.

You realize that life's much better when no one knows anything about you.

You don't care what other people think about you anymore.

You stop chasing meaningless relationships and focus on improving yourself.

You focus more on the opportunity of learning than the risk of failure.

You don't stress about things that are out of your control.

You understand that 9-5 won't help you achieve financial freedom.

You understand that you get paid based on the value you are providing.

In the real world, grades aren't the only measure of value. Connections, background, and practical skills often surpass academic performance. While grades may open doors.

You understand that life's much better when you focus on improving yourself rather than partying every weekend.

You realize that in the end only your family and a few true friends will be there for you.

You also realize that in the end, even your family and friends will leave you, only the God remains with you. #moneyupacademy #MoneyUpAcademy

Own Land Now in Ibeju Lekki! Oju Eko Estate, Ode-Omi – Affordable Plots Selling Out Fast!

Are You Ready to Own a Piece of the Future in Lagos?
Welcome to Oju Eko Estate, a prime investment opportunity in the heart of the fastest-developing corridor of Lagos – Ibeju Lekki. If you missed out on Lekki Phase 1 or VGC, this is your second chance to invest smart!

Strategic Location That Guarantees High Returns
Oju Eko Estate is perfectly positioned in Ode-Omi, right along the vibrant Ibeju-Lekki axis. This area is the new face of modern Lagos, surrounded by mega infrastructure and high-value developments such as:

Dangote Refinery

Lekki Free Trade Zone

Lekki Deep Sea Port

La Campagne Tropicana

Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road

This isn’t just land—it’s your gateway to wealth creation.

Estate Features & Benefits
Oju Eko Estate is designed for convenience, comfort, and rapid appreciation:

Land Size: 500sqm plots available

Title: Deed of Assignment + Registered Survey

Road Access & Infrastructure: Solid road network and secure environment

Electricity: Constant power supply in the area

Phase 2 Launch: Be among the early investors in this fresh development

Free Documentation: Enjoy seamless ownership transfer

SPECIAL OFFER: Buy 3 plots, get 1 plot absolutely FREE!

Invest Now – Don’t Wait to Be Told!
Oju Eko Estate isn’t just affordable—it’s a goldmine for anyone looking to secure their future. With rapid development sweeping across Ibeju Lekki, early investors stand to gain massive ROI in a short time.

Schedule an Inspection Today!
Take the first step toward smart property ownership:

Call: 0806 280 1423

WhatsApp: 0802 317 2357

Email: sainttheophilus@yahoo.com

Visit: el-doradohomes.com

YouTube: @eldoradohomesnig

Stay Connected for More Hot Deals
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*IMPORTANT NOTICE!!!*

Good day, to be forewarned is to be forearmed. Let's take care of one another Ladies and Gents.
This is the story of a real case that happened in Abuja.
A friend was put to sleep in the bathroom of a movie theater, and everything was stolen from her, and she didn't remember anything, only that a woman gave her a perfume to smell.
I was also approached yesterday afternoon at about 3:30 pm. in the parking lot of the mall by two men who asked what kind of perfume I was wearing.
Then they asked me if I would like to smell a sensational type of perfume that they were selling at a sale price.
I probably would have accepted if I hadn't received this notice about THE PERFUME SHOCK.
The men remained between the parked cars, I imagine waiting for someone else to show up.
I stopped a lady who was walking towards them and warned her. I had been warned that in shopping malls or parking lots, there are people who approach you to offer you to SMELL THE PERFUME they are selling, but it is NOT actually perfume, IT IS AXTER.
When you smell it, you faint, and they take advantage of the opportunity to steal everything of value you carry.
PLEASE: copy this message and send it to your friends as they are operating everywhere!

Share to everyone that you know!

IRNA News Agency:
Iran to remember Russia’s positive role in nuclear issue: Foreign Ministry spokesperson

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei says that Iran will remember Russia’s constructive and positive role in the Islamic Republic’s nuclear issue and that Tehran believes its Russian friends would play a key role in this respect if needed.

🖇 en.irna.ir/news/85811036/

@Irna_en

I.R.G.C. seizes 1.5 million liters of smuggled fuel in the Persian Gulf

🖇 en.irna.ir/news/85810958/

@Irna_en

Iran to pursue lifting of unilateral sanctions and prisoner exchange at SCO judicial summit

Tehran, IRNA – Deputy Foreign Minister for Legal and International Affairs Kazem Gharibabadi says that unilateral sanctions, prisoner transfers, and extradition of criminals are expected to be discussed at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit.

🖇 en.irna.ir/news/85811013/

@Irna_en

China hails Tehran-Beijing relations ahead of Araqchi's visit

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson has hailed the relation between Tehran and Beijing as sound and stable.

🖇 en.irna.ir/news/85810900/

@Irna_en

Exclusive | Iran-U.S. talks are a ‘litmus test’ for diplomacy, says IRNA’s CEO

Tehran, IRNA – CEO of the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) Hossein Jaberi-Ansari says the ongoing negotiations between Iran and the United States, mediated by Oman, represent a “litmus test” for diplomacy and an opportunity for both sides to gauge each other’s positions beyond media narratives and rhetoric.h

🖇 en.irna.ir/news/85811253/

@Irna_en

VISION

INTRODUCTION

Vision is the revelation of God’s purpose and plan for a person, a people, a generation, or even an entire nation. It is not ambition. It is not wishful thinking. It is not mere goal-setting. Vision is divine direction birthed by divine encounter. According to Habakkuk 2:2-3 (NKJV): “Write the vision and make it plain on tablets, that he may run who reads it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time; But at the end it will speak, and it will not lie. Though it tarries, wait for it; Because it will surely come, it will not tarry.” This reveals a key truth: NO TRUE VISION SPEAKS AT THE BEGINNING; IT ONLY SPEAKS AT THE END.

WHAT IS VISION?

Vision is the spiritual insight into God’s intended outcome for a life. It is not self-initiated but God-initiated. It is the mental and spiritual picture of your future that propels you with energy, courage, and resilience. Vision is what gives life direction, focus, and purpose. Without it, people live by reaction instead of intention. Proverbs 29:18 (KJV) says, “Where there is no vision, the people perish.”

True vision is born out of divine fellowship. It is not created in the boardroom but received in the secret place. Vision is not what you want to do for God, but what God wants to do through you. It is the blueprint of heaven deposited in your spirit, commanding your alignment and action.

KEY FACTS ABOUT VISION

1. TRUE VISION SPEAKS AT THE END, NOT AT THE BEGINNING

When vision first arrives, it often looks ordinary, confusing, or even unrealistic. It rarely comes with applause or clarity. In fact, it often invites criticism, mockery, and rejection. Just like Joseph’s dreams, vision is usually ridiculed before it is respected. In the beginning, it may appear dormant or unachievable. But in the end, it speaks loudly and clearly. Vision is validated by manifestation, not excitement.

2. VISION REQUIRES PROCESSING

Before vision speaks, it processes. The one who receives vision must be processed to match the weight of what God has revealed. Moses had the vision to deliver Israel, but spent 40 years in the wilderness being prepared. Paul encountered Jesus and then spent years in Arabia being equipped. God will never place a heavy vision on an unprocessed vessel. Between revelation and manifestation is preparation.

3. VISION THRIVES ON CHARACTER, NOT JUST CHARISMA

It is not enough to carry power gifts like prophecy, tongues, healing, or discernment. These are important but not sufficient for the fulfillment of vision. The gifts may attract attention, but it is the fruit of the Spirit that sustains destiny. According to Galatians 5:22-23, the fruits of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control are the attributes that preserve the vessel and stabilize the journey.

Many have received genuine visions from God but failed in character and collapsed in the process. Patience and long-suffering are especially critical because vision is a marathon, not a sprint. Without endurance, discouragement will abort destiny.

4. VISION REQUIRES TIME AND SEASONAL DISCERNMENT

Vision is time-sensitive. No matter how accurate a vision is, if you try to manifest it outside of divine timing, it will fail. The power of vision lies in alignment with God’s schedule. Ecclesiastes 3:1 says, “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” Misjudging seasons leads to premature exposure and failure.

Vision must be walked out step by step, stage by stage. Just as a baby must crawl before walking, vision must mature before manifestation. Each season comes with its test. There is a season of silence, of rejection, of formation, and of visibility. You must discern them all.

5. VISION ATTRACTS ADVERSITY

Every true vision will face opposition. In fact, opposition is one of the strongest validations that your vision is divine. Satan will not fight what is not a threat. Nehemiah’s vision to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem was opposed from every side. Jesus' mission was challenged from infancy to the cross. If your vision is truly of God, expect resistance—but also expect divine backing.

Opposition is not a sign of failure but a test of commitment. Many faint in the day of adversity because their strength is small. Visionaries must be battle-tested, able to withstand storms, delays, betrayals, and discouragement.

6. VISION REQUIRES DISCIPLINE AND FOCUS

Distraction is one of the deadliest enemies of vision. Many start strong but lose focus. Like Peter walking on water, they allow the winds of life to shift their eyes from the Master to the mess. Vision demands saying no to many good things to stay with the God-thing.

It also requires the discipline of time, resources, and relationships. Not every opportunity is a divine instruction. You must guard your heart, your circle, and your energy. Vision flourishes in environments of purity and clarity.

7. VISION REQUIRES COURAGE AND RESILIENCE

Vision will often demand that you walk alone. The early stages of vision may require loneliness, rejection, and misunderstanding. Noah built an ark with no rain in sight. Abraham walked to an unknown land. These men were sustained by vision, not applause.

If you cannot endure the loneliness of vision, you will never enjoy the reward of vision. You must believe what God told you even when no one else sees it. Hebrews 10:36 says, “You have need of patience, that, after you have done the will of God, you might receive the promise.”

8. VISION SEEKS TRANSFORMATION, NOT JUST ATTRACTION

A true vision will not just aim to make you popular or successful; it will aim to make others better, to improve society, and to advance God’s kingdom. Vision is bigger than self. It is redemptive. It serves others. It adds value. If your vision doesn’t stretch beyond you, it is ambition, not vision.

STAGES OF A VISION

1. REVELATION – God reveals His purpose.

2. INSTRUCTION – Specific steps are given.

3. SEPARATION – You are separated from what limits you.

4. PREPARATION – You are trained and refined.

5. OPPOSITION – You are tested and resisted.

6. MANIFESTATION – Vision begins to produce fruit.

7. MULTIPLICATION – Vision spreads and multiplies in others.

QUALITIES OF A VISIONARY

Sensitive to divine instructions

Emotionally stable and spiritually rooted

Bold in the face of opposition

Willing to endure delays and rejections

Able to discern seasons and transitions

Passionate about impact, not applause

Willing to submit to process and authority

Consistent in faith, regardless of results

CONCLUSION

Vision is not a one-time encounter—it is a lifelong journey. It is God's plan being worked out through your life in stages. Vision is fragile in the beginning but becomes powerful at the end. The end speaks, not the beginning. It is not how it looks now, but how it will be when God is done.

Don’t abort your vision because of delay. Don’t discard it because of opposition. Don’t disobey because of pressure. What God has shown you will come to pass—if you stay faithful.

Ecclesiastes 7:8 (NIV) says, “The end of a matter is better than its beginning, and patience is better than pride.” Vision is not about speed, but about staying in sync with God. Those who wait on the Lord will not be ashamed. The vision will speak—at the end.

URGENT OPPORTUNITY: Affordable Land For Sale in Ibeju Lekki – Casa Bella Estate, Ode-Omi
THE FUTURE IS NOW – OWN LAND TODAY!
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International Airport (Proposed)
Smart City Projects

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🛡 WHY CASA BELLA ESTATE IS A POWER MOVE:
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SCHEDULE AN INSPECTION NOW!
Call: 0806 280 1423
WhatsApp: 0802 317 2357
Email: sainttheophilus@yahoo.com
Visit: el-doradohomes.com
YouTube: @eldoradohomesnig

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#LandForSaleInIbejuLekki #CasaBellaEstate #AffordableLandNigeria #RealEstateInvestment #LagosLandDeals #BuyLandNow #LandInvestmentOpportunity #LekkiFreeTradeZone #IbejuLekkiProperties #DangoteRefineryLand #RealEstateNigeria #PWANGroup #CasaBellaPhase3 #LandDeals2025 #SecureYourFuture #LagosPropertyInvestment

Breaking: Pope Francis Is Dead.

Jorge Mario Bergoglio, Pope Francis, has died at the age of 88 years at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta.
Naija News reports that Pope Francis was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on December 17, 1936.

A brief statement from the Vatican on its 𝕏 handle disclosed that the Catholic leader died on Monday (today).

“Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta,” it read.

On Easter Sunday morning, shortly after 11:30 am at the Casa Santa Marta, Pope Francis had a brief private meeting with the Vice President of the United States of America, James David Vance.

The Holy See Press Office gave news of the meeting and noted it lasted a few minutes and offered an opportunity to exchange Easter greetings.

Travelling to Italy with his family, Vance visited the Secretariat of State Saturday morning where he was welcomed by the Cardinal Secretary of State, Pietro Parolin, together with Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organisations.

A cordial conversation took place, according to the Holy See Press Office, during which the common commitment to protect the right to religious freedom and freedom of conscience was renewed. There was also an exchange of views on the international situation, especially regarding countries affected by war, political tensions and difficult humanitarian situations, with particular attention focused on migrants, refugees and those in prison,” Vatican News reported.

During the afternoon of Good Friday, the United States Vice President with his wife and three children attended the Celebration of the Lord’s Passion in Saint Peter’s Basilica, presided over by Cardinal Claudio Gugerotti, prefect of the Dicastery for the Eastern Churches.

THESE HABITS WILL KEEP YOU BROKE FOREVER. BEWARE!

Dear MEN,

If you want to be a man who is in control of his life, respected, and financially secure, there are things you must never do when it comes to money.

Your financial state as a man determines more than just your bank account—it affects your confidence, relationships, opportunities, and even your mental health.

Too many men work hard but still end up broke. Why?
Because making money is one thing, but keeping and growing it is another.

If you don’t master your finances, you will always be at the mercy of another man.

Here are the financial mistakes that will keep you weak, stuck, and struggling forever:

1. Spending to Impress Instead of Investing to Progress:

If you’re spending money just to look rich, you’re setting yourself up to stay broke.

Research from the National Bureau of Economic Research shows that most wealthy people live below their means, while many middle-class and poor individuals spend more on luxury goods.

The real flex is ownership. Assets. Investments. Skills that print money. Not designer clothes you can’t afford.

2. Depending on One Source of Income:

If your entire financial life depends on one paycheck or one business, you’re playing a dangerous game.

The average millionaire has 7 sources of income—but most men have just one. If that one dries up, what happens? Panic. Struggle. Dependence.

Start building multiple streams of income. Even if you have a job, learn a skill, start a side hustle, invest.

3. Ignoring Financial Literacy:

Money has rules, and if you don’t learn them, you’ll keep losing.

A survey by the National Endowment for Financial Education found that about 70% of lottery winners go broke within a few years because they never understood how to manage wealth.

No matter how much you make, if you don’t know how to manage money, it will disappear.

Read books on finance, study wealthy men, and apply what you learn. Ignorance is expensive.

4. Taking on Debt for the Wrong Reasons:

There’s good debt and bad debt.

Good debt makes you richer—like borrowing to invest in a business or real estate.

Bad debt makes you poorer—like buying things you can’t afford just to show off.

If you’re always borrowing money for liabilities, you’re digging a financial grave.

5. Relying on “Luck” Instead of Strategy:

Men who wait for a “big break” or a “lucky opportunity” will remain broke while others are strategically creating wealth.

Success is lengineered, not wished for. It’s the result of planning, action, and discipline.

Stop waiting for a miracle. Become the miracle through smart moves.

6. Failing to Invest Early:

A study by the Federal Reserve shows that those who start investing in their 20s are far more likely to retire wealthy than those who wait until their 30s or 40s.

Even if you’re making little now, start saving and investing. The earlier you start, the bigger your financial freedom.

7. Letting Women Control Your Financial Decisions:

A real man leads his own financial life.

Too many men make money decisions to impress or please women—buying gifts they can’t afford, taking on expensive dates when they’re struggling, or funding lifestyles they can’t sustain.

A woman should respect your vision, not drain your wallet. Any woman who truly values you will support your financial growth, not sabotage it.

BOTTOM LINE:

Your financial freedom is in your hands. If you keep making these mistakes, you will always be struggling, dependent, and limited.

But if you take control—get financially educated, build multiple income streams, invest wisely, and spend smartly—you will always be a man in control of his destiny.

Master your money, or be mastered by it. The choice is yours.

#explorepage
#highlightseveryone

"I'm sorry, Andrew, but I can't marry you!" Christina Stevens declared coldly in the CEO's office of Stevens Corporation. She sat behind her desk, looking elegant in a black lace dress, her demeanor icy and aloof.
Across from her sat a handsome man in modest attire. Andrew Lloyd could not believe what he was hearing and asked, "Christie, what do you mean? What happened to the promise between us?"
They had agreed to tie the knot on the day Stevens Corporation went public, marking the end of their three-year courtship.
"Since we've been dating each other, I'll be frank," Christina replied, tucking a stray strand of hair behind her ear. Her stunning features exuded grace and beauty with every movement.
"Andrew, don't you think the gap between us has grown too wide? It's like we're from different worlds now. Forcing this relationship won't do you any good. For me, it would be… a burden."
A burden?
Andrew was stunned, never expecting Christina to say such a thing. If it had not been for his help, the Stevens family would have gone bankrupt long ago, let alone gone public.
In fact, he had shaped Christina's success with his own hands.
"I know this decision is hard for you to accept. How about this? Consider it a debt I owe you. After we cancel the wedding, I'll give you a settlement—cash, a villa, and a luxury car.
That should be enough for you to live comfortably." Christina pulled out a pen and checkbook from her designer purse as she spoke.
Andrew watched in silence as she wrote down the figure: 1.2 million. He felt as if he was looking at a stranger. "Is this all our years together are worth to you? Just a string of numbers?" Andrew asked.
Christina's perfect features flickered with complexity for a moment before settling back into indifference. "If you think it's not enough, I can add more. Name your price."
Andrew stared at her, pain evident in his eyes at how Christina had mistaken his question for thinking it was not enough. "So, you're dead set on backing out of this marriage?"
Christina pressed her lips together and turned to look out the window. "If that's how you want to see it, I have nothing more to say," she replied.
She was a female CEO with a net worth of over 150 million dollars, with countless admirers in Jayrodale. Andrew, from any angle, did not fit into her world anymore. Not even on an intellectual level.
This marriage was not what Christina wanted—it was too ordinary for her tastes.
"I never thought years of love, countless nights together, and all those breakfasts and dinners I made would ultimately lose to the fear of being ordinary. It's no surprise—you're now the CEO of Stevens Corporation, Jayrodale's golden girl, with countless admirers. And me? I'm just a nobody, clearly not worthy of the outstanding Ms. Stevens." Andrew chuckled bitterly, feeling utterly disheartened.
Christina's brow furrowed as she glanced at him. "Andrew, I admit you've done a lot for me, but this… it's not what I want. Consider it compensation for your efforts over the years," Christina said as she pushed the check toward him.
Andrew did not even look at the check. "A 1.2 million dollars breakup fee? How generous of you, Ms. Stevens. But I don't need it." He stood up and walked toward the door.
Seeing Andrew about to leave, Christina's frown deepened. "Andrew, I strongly advise you to take this money. Don't be a fool for the sake of pride. A small-time doctor like you could never earn this much in a lifetime." Andrew ignored her words. In truth, 1.2 million dollars was not a sum he particularly needed.
"Hold it right there," a voice called out. A woman dripping in jewelry and wearing flashy makeup strode into the room. Andrew immediately recognized her. "Aunt Irene!" It was Christina's mother, Irene Cowell—who would have been Andrew's mother-in-law.
"Hmph, drop the 'Aunt Irene', we're not that close! If you're leaving, take your things with you. Our mansion has no room for your junk," Irene barked. She pulled a small box and a credit card from her purse and tossed them at Andrew.
"Aunt Irene, you wanted this too? I thought I've always treated you with respect."
Irene let out a harsh laugh, her voice grating. "What's the matter, Andrew? Did I hit a nerve?"
"Oh, Andrew, there's one more thing you should know. Christina will soon be engaged to Harvey Weller once he returns from abroad. You're not in the same league as Harvey, got it?" Irene's face was full of mockery as she said those.
Andrew looked at Christina icily. He was shocked at her audacity to find someone new before she even ended things with him.
Christina avoided Andrew's cold gaze, but her words were firm. "The Weller family is a powerhouse in Jayrodale, with influence across military, political, and business sectors. They've worked for generations to become one of the city's unshakeable pillars. Harvey will inherit it all one day. An alliance between our families is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. For me, it's a chance to transform my life."
At those words, Andrew finally let go.
He smiled and replied, "Is that so? Well then, allow this poor nobody to wish you and the Stevens family all the best in your social climbing endeavors." With that, he walked out without another glance, showing no trace of attachment.
As she watched Andrew's retreating figure, Christina felt a whirlwind of emotions.
She had expected him to explode with anger or beg her to reconsider when he heard about Harvey. Yet, throughout it all, Andrew had remained unnervingly calm, even indifferent at the end.
"Mom, do you think I went too far?"
Irene scoffed. "Too far? That good-for-nothing thinking he could marry you—now that's going too far!" She chuckled with a gleam in her eye. "Just wait until Harvey gets back, sweetie. Once you two are engaged, the Stevens family will skyrocket to the top tier of Jayrodale society. As for Andrew, he's nothing. Thankfully, he knows better than to mess with me and is cooperative. Otherwise, I would've taught him a lesson he'd never forget!"
Christina remained silent, feeling an inexplicable emptiness in her chest. It was as if something irreplaceable had suddenly vanished from her life.
In the elevator, Andrew opened the modest ring box. A dazzling pink diamond immediately caught the light, its brilliance filling the small space. This 7.5-million-dollar luxury ring was once known as the "King of Diamonds" of Jayrodale, truly one of a kind.
Andrew did not know exactly how much money was on the bank card, but he was sure it was enough to buy Stevens Corporations ten times over. Moments ago, Christina and Irene had not even bothered to look at these treasures, with Irene dismissing them as junk.
As the elevator doors opened, Andrew stepped out.
"Well, well, if it isn't Andrew! You don't look so good," a mocking voice greeted him.
Andrew calmly looked up to see a man in a tailored suit, his hair slicked back, holding a bouquet of blue roses. It was Shawn Fields, Jayrodale's infamous trust fund baby and one of Christina's most persistent admirers.
Not wanting to talk to him, Andrew tried to sidestep him, but Shawn moved to block his path again. Andrew's eyes turned cold as he stared directly at Shawn.
"Do you need something? If not, please move."
Shawn flashed an exaggerated grin. "Look, everyone, Christina's lapdog is actually barking at me! Let me guess, the Stevens family finally kicked you to the curb, huh?"
As he taunted Andrew, Shawn noticed the ring box in his hand. "This is probably some cheap trinket! As if Christina would ever want that. Let's all have a look!" With a sneer, Shawn knocked the box from Andrew's hand, sending it clattering to the floor.
The lid popped open, revealing a stunning pink diamond that rolled onto the floor.
Shawn's eyes widened in disbelief. "Isn't that… the famous pink diamond from Radiant Jewelers? The one they call the Jayrodale's King of Diamonds?"...