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𝑳𝒊𝒇𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒔𝒐 𝒎𝒖𝒄𝒉 𝒃𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓
𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒑 𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒏𝒚𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈
𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝒂𝒏𝒚𝒐𝒏𝒆.

{ The Recap :- }

The very name of that place filled me with dread, a palpable bitterness I couldn't shake. I hated the idea of seeing her, or rather of being in the same space as that woman, but apparently I was trapped in a duty which I detested above everything in life.

{ Haelyn's POV End :- }

── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──

{ The New Chapter :- }

{ Author's POV :- }

{ At Kim's Mansion :- }

The Kim Mansion was filled with the soft hum of activity, its grandeur set alive by the golden morning sun, which streamed through the windows to illuminate the place. Light danced across the polished floors, making the sprawling estate glow with serene beauty.

Birds chirped outside in cacophony as fresh air brought a quiet hum of workers working their morning. Some cleaned while others attended to the kitchen preparing a large breakfast. Mr Kim sits with quiet authority inside the sitting room. He is fashionably dressed in professional attire. Next to him sits Se-joon and Min-young, exuding elegance in their sophisticated outfits.

Their eyes concentrate on the pages of their newspaper. Freshly brewed coffee drenched the air with its aroma and they sat silently, paper rustling at times the only sound heard. The dripping mansion of light and a soft, muffled life was a rich luxurious impression every morning with elegance, routines, and warmth unfolded.

The Kim siblings step down the grand staircase silent on the polished wooden  steps to grace and poise.Every single one of them was dashing in the ir expensive and fitted suits, which would make anyone feel professional, accomplished, and successful. Their simple designs were emitting luxury through minute features that the viewers' eyes were drawn toward, such as delicate stitchings and high-quality materials.

{ The Living Area :- }

One after another, they stepped into the living room, demanding focus. The only 
sound that their clothes made was the soft rustling as.they moved to the big
leather couch dominating the middle of the room. Each of them chose a seat carefully, positioning themselves just enough to make it look balanced and composed.

Their poised stance, coupled with the understated elegance of the room, evoked a sense of quiet power and control, and they wished each other good mornings. Then they exchanged soft good mornings, their voices carrying the warmth of familiarity, though their posture remained poised and respectful.

Mr Kim - Good morning everyone. *smiling slightly*

Seo-joon - Good morning Hyung , Jagi and Kid's. *smiling soflty*

Min-young - Good morning Oppa , Yeobo and Children's. *smiled at them*

Bangpink - Good morning Dad , Uncle and Aunt. *smiling warmly*

Stray Kids - Good morning Dad , Mom and Uncle . *smiling at everyone*

Just minutes later, the maids walked in, their strides brisk yet fluid, with starched uniforms that talked of precision and attention to detail. Silver trays with drinks were balanced delicately within their hands, steaming cups of rich black coffee for some and matcha lattes for others.

The room was filled with the fragrances of freshly brewed coffee and earthy matcha, but there was an undertone of polished wood and leather. The maids never said a word as they placed the drinks before each sibling, the cups resting quietly on fine porcelain saucers.

{ Their Drinks :- }

Once served, the maids withdrew as quietly as they had entered, and the siblings were left alone to the peaceful morning moment. The gentle clinking of spoons stirring drinks and the periodic sip broke the silence as each savored the warmth of their drinks.

The quietness of the morning, the rich aroma of coffee and tea, and the serene air all seemed to add to an already palpable sense of expectation that hung in the air, and when they finally finished their beverages Mr Kim began talking and everyone listened.

Mr Kim - Alright everyone, do you all remember that we have an important meeting with Ms Emarald today at The Emarald's Empire ?? *cold tone*

Min-young - Yes Oppa , and isn't that company owned by Leora , Mrs Shin's younger daughter ??*asked curiously*

Nam-joon - Yes, Aunt, you're right. The Emerald's Empire is owned by our soon-to-be stepsister, Leora. It's impressive how she's built such a massive empire from scratch Her success is something to be proud of, and I can't wait to see how her influence will grow even more . *monotone*

As Nam-joon spoke, the weight of his words settled over them like a heavy fog Slowly, the others nodded, their expressions shifting as the undeniable truth sank into their hearts .

Seo-joon - Can you believe it Leora, at such a young age, is not only breathtakingly beautiful but also a powerful, successful businesswoman. It's almost unbelievable how she's built her empire so quickly , Her presence alone commands attention, but it's her sharp mind and sheer determination that make her unstoppable , She's already accomplished more than most do in a lifetime."*being surprised*

Mr Kim - Yes, Seo-joon, you're absolutely right. I'm incredibly proud that Leora is going to be my soon-to-be stepdaughter , To think someone so young could achieve so much it's inspiring. Her strength, her beauty, her business acumen... She's truly a force to be reckoned with. I couldn't ask for a better addition to our family.*smiling soflty*

Min-young and the Elder Kim siblings nodded solemnly in agreement, their expressions calm as they acknowledged Leora's praise. Meanwhile, the Maknaes stifled their frustration, mentally rolling their eyes .

Though their dislike for Leora simmered beneath the surface, they held their tongues, silently enduring the moment but Jim-in being the shot tempered person spoke.

Ji-min - Why are you guys praising her so much as if she is the only successful business person in the world , Remember we are the Kims, and we runs a thriving company and mafia gang ?? *asked arrogantly*

Han - Ji-min hyung is right, She may be a successful businesswoman, but we're not just that , We're the most dangerous mafias in South Korea. Power like ours runs deeper than wealth it's built on fear, control, and respect She's nowhere near our level.
*said being proud*

Watching them speak with such arrogance, Jisoo, the elder and ever-responsible sister, stepped forward. Her gaze was steady, carrying the weight of experience, as her calm voice broke through their conceit with quiet authority.

Jisoo - "Stop it, guys What's wrong with praising her Yes, we're all mafias and successful business people, and she's a businesswoman like us , But what makes her truly remarkable is how much she's achieved at such a young age That's something really worth in admiring .*said firmly*

Chang-bin - Jim-in and Han what Jisoo saying is true what's wrong in praising someone's succes we know that you guy's don't like her but that doesn't mean you can talk about her like this understated ?? *asked sternly*

Ji-min and Han looked down being embarrassed as they realized that they let their personal feelings interfere in a Buisness matter so they spoke.

Ji-min - Sorry hyung and Noona We shouldn't have let our personal feelings interfere like that and I know It was very unprofessional of us. *said being guilty*

Han - And Our emotions took the best of us and we promise we won't repeat something like this again so please forgive us. *apologizing sincerly*

Jin - I can see you both are sorry but words alone won't fix this Show me through your actions and don't repeat this mistake again. *said firmly*

They both nodded solemnly at Jin's words, understanding the gravity of the situation. The room fell into a heavy silence, until Mr. Kim, who had been quiet all along, finally spoke His voice was low but firm .

Mr Kim - Well, let's leave that matter for now and focus on today's important meeting. Did you guys prepare everything ?? *asked being serious*

Yoon-gi - Yes Dad we've got everything sorted , The presentation is finalized, and all the reports are ready also We double checked the agenda and confirmed everything. *monotone*

Min-ho - We've also checked the tech setup Uncle The projector and video conference equipment are all working perfectly. *said calmly*

Mr Kim - Great How about the handouts jewelry designs and any materials we need to distribute ?? . *asked being serious*

Jennie - The handouts designs are perfectly organized We'll have them ready for distribution as soon as the meeting starts. *said smiling*

Seo-joon - And are we clear on the key points we need to cover ?? . *monotone*

Nam-joon - Absolutely We have a detailed outline and key talking points prepared. Everyone's briefed on their roles. *said calmly*

Seeing them meticulously prepared for the meeting, Mr Kim let out a deep sigh of relief.

Mr Kim - Excellent Kid's Let's make sure we're all on the same page and ready to deliver a strong performance at the meeting and win over this deal .*smiling in relief*

Jung-kook - Yes Dad don't worry I'm sure we'll get this deal . *said confidently*

Min-young - Okay everyone now leave this Buisness things and let's go to eat our breakfast it's already late and we need to go to the office. *said smiling*

Hearing Min-young's words, the room felt the collective relief and resolve spread across it. Heads nodded silently as they rose from their chairs, almost as if they had been choreographed to move.

The air, once thick and charged with tension, began instead to flow in a rather easier rhythm as They proceeded towards the dining area, with scents of breakfast warmly fragrant the air, as, finally they sat around the dining table, the warm, hopeful morning sun bathed the place.

{ The Dining Area :- }

The Maids entered the room so silently that their soft footfalls actually made a sound on the highly polished floor. They each bore a tray laden with deliciously tempting breakfast, the smell of newly cooked food. The tinkling of china and the soft murmurings of their presence made a lulling accompaniment to morning's stir as they gently placed the trays on their allocated places.

Once their mission was done, the Maids disappeared wordlessly, shutting the door that left behind a room under a single moment of intimate silence, as morning dawned slowly into the sunlit and warm window-lined room in the aromatic ambiance of freshly prepared breakfasts.

Everyone feasted before them, savoring every bite of the perfect dishes prepared. The conversations run from light banter and serious discussions, with the soft whisper of the breeze. The room, now abuzz with the heat of shared meals and a sense of family closeness, was once quiet and pristine. The delectable food and the satisfaction of being together were perfect starting points for their day.

{ Their Breakfast's :- }

As the last of the plates were cleared the group stood up, their earlier lounging giving way to purpose , The clinking of silverware stopped and was replaced by the rustling of coats and the soft shuffling of feet . They gathered their things, the chatter died down and they headed for the door of the mansion. Their faces, which had been so relaxed and happy, were now set in determination , Outside the mansion’s grand front was a far cry from the practical, no nonsense presence of the guards by the cars.

Each guard stood at attention, uniform sharp. As the group approached the guards bowed, heads down and backs straight. The group’s response was a series of nods, as brief and cold as the wind that had just hit them. Without another word they moved to their cars, the heavy doors closing with a soft thud as they got in. The engines started and it was almost a signal, the end of one thing and the start of another.

{ Their Car's :- }

The cars left the house and drove away, the wheels screeching on the gravel before they  could hit the road. The morning as well as the vibe were left behind and in their place came  purpose and the works to be done for the day.

All the cars transformed into individual compartments and  the people went to various destinations, and the short period of togetherness was followed by their  separate ways.

{ Author's POV End :- }

── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──

{ Nam-joon's POV :- }

As we made our way out of the house, I was seated inside one vehicle with Dad, Jisoo, and Yoon-gi, while in another one, it was just Jennie, Bang-chan, Min-ho, and Chang-bin heading to Emerald's Empire on a very important business. The shocker was finding out that Ms Emerald is actually Leora. I never imagined one of our stepsisters would be her.

Though I wouldn't say I completely accept her as family, there's no denying I look up to her. For me, she's a role model for her sharp business acumen and outstanding achievements, not to mention the fact that I can and will be proud of her as our soon-to-be stepsister.

After spending two hours on the road, we now finally reached The Emerald's Empire the imposing edifice that immediately commanded respect. Soaring heavenward, it carried with it a sleek black and gold façade that seemed directly to unleash an exceptional luxury and dominance.

The outside elegance sparkles under the city lights, while intricate gold touches further abstract authority and elegance. We had only stepped out of the car, and already one felt the grandeur of the setting multiplying, as if immersing us in an aura of power.

{ The Emarald's Empire :- }

As we got out of the car, the size of the building seemed to swallow us, its presence both amazing and scary. The guards, keeping quiet watch, lowered their heads in respect as we came. Big, fancy doors creaked open and inside showed itself richly. The smell of shiny stone and the soft glow of glass lights welcomed us as we walked in marking our entry into a world where power and wealth was highest.

We walked straight to the front desk, our goal very clear and firm; and the receptionist's eyes met ours with a knowing look. We saw her name, which is Ms Veronica Smith, on her badge. then I asked her ͏where the meeting room is .

Nam-joon - Hello, I'm Kim Nam-joon from The Kim's Enterprises. *cold tone*

She replied .

Veronica - Good day, Mr Nam-joon Welcome to The Emerald's Empire , I'm Veronica How can I assist you ?? . *smiling formally*

Then Jisoo asked her about when the meeting is starting at .

Jisoo - Well, we are here for today's Spring Launch meeting, so I wanted to know when it's starting ??.*asked in cold tone*

She replied .

Veronica - Oh, the Spring Launch meeting is at 12 pm and it's currently 11 am so we have one more hour to go. *said smiling*

Hearing this we nodded and Min-ho asked.

Min-ho - Well, that's good to know. If you don't mind, could you lead us to the meeting room We're not familiar with the area ?? . *asked being confused*

She replied .

Veronica - Of course, it's my pleasure. Please follow me, and I'll show you where the meeting room is. *smiling soflty*

As we nodded in agreement, she was about to lead us the way but then a familiar voice called out Dad's name, halting us in our tracks , We turned, and there stood Mrs Shin and Haeyln, poised and elegant then Mrs Shin Spoke her voice carried a casual warmth as she greeted us .

Mrs Shin - Hello honey, and kids, what are you guys doing here? *asked smiling*

Mr Kim - Hey, sweetheart, we're here for the Spring Launch meeting and What about you two ?? . *said softly*

The fact that dad responded softly and in a rarer and more intimate tone gave us a start; A part of his private self slipped out into the public, what had never happened before – his gentle words made ripples of surprise through us because we weren't used to seeing him like this outside our home. Then Mrs Shin regarded us with a warm maternal smile and said .

Mrs Shin - Well, we're here for today's meeting, too. How are you all doing Kid's ??. *smiling soflty*

Bang-chan - We are doing good Mrs Shin. *smiling faintly*

Then Haelyn approached us with a warm, radiant smile that lit up her face, making her eyes sparkle as she spoke .

Haeyln - Oppa's and Unnie's It's so nice to meet you guys again !! . *said cheerfully*

We glanced at her with a soft smile, and Jennie replied.

Jennie - Well , same here, Dear . *smiling slightly*

Haeyln - I'm really happy to see you guys here and I missed every one of you . *faking innocence*

Jisoo - Aww, we missed you too, dear and Don't worry we'll be living together soon. *smiling warmly*

Haelyn's face lit up even more at Jisoo's words ans she replied with a soft laugh, her excitement clearly bubbling over.

Haeyln - Yes, Unnie, I'm looking forward to that day eagerly !!. *said giggling*

As we all chuckled at her adorable antics, our laughter was abruptly cut short by the sound of Ms Veronica, the receptionist, clearing her throat behind us. Her presence instantly shifted our mood from playful to attentive, as we turned to face her with curiosity .

Veronica - Well, sorry to interrupt your talk, but may I know who you both are ?? . *asked being confused*

She asked to Mrs Shin and Haeyln, who met her gaze , Mrs Shin spoke first with calm authority, while Haeyln followed with a quieter response .

Mrs Shin - Well I'm Shin Go-eun, the Chairwoman of The Shin Enterprises. *said smiling at her*

Haeyln - And I'm Shin Haeyln, the CEO of The Shin Enterprises, and we're here for the Spring Launch meeting as well. *smiling slightly*

Veronica - Oh, that's really good to know! Welcome to The Emerald's Empire. I'm Veronica, the receptionist. *smiling slightly*

Mrs Shin and Haeyln nodded at her words Then, I spoke up drawing everyone's attention.

Nam-joon - Well, since everyone is here, Ms. Veronica, why don't you show us the meeting room It's already 11 : 30 am ??. *asked in cold tone*

Veronica - Sure, of course I'll lead you to the meeting room , So Everyone please follow me. *smiling professionally*

We all agreed and nodded our heads, and she started walking. We walked with her to the elevator, and the button for the 45th floor was pressed by her, and the doors of the lift closed, which then moved upwards very gently. A few minutes later, the soft chime came to signal that we had got to the meeting floor, and we alighted; We then lagged behind her as she sort of led us to the meeting room; Professionally, she opened the door.

Thus, we came into the room where the other businesspeople who were already present and conversing were, Upon noticing us, they stood up and extended their greetings to us, to which we responded as much before joining them in the seats. Then Ms. Veronica bowed and e electronically left the room, hence we were left to wait for Ms. Emerald who is none other than Leora to come as we still have 30 minutes left before the meeting begins.

{ Nam-joon's POV End:- }

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{ Leora's POV :- }

After a two-hour drive, I finally arrived at The Emarald's Empire, my company and  the car stopped right in front of the building and My guards swiftly exited the vehicle, and one of them opened the door for me with practiced ease I stepped out, carrying the bag in my hand with a touch of elegance The guards then told the security to park my car in the VIP parking lot.

As I walked towards the entrance, my guards followed closely behind and The security guard at the door, recognizing my presence, bowed slightly and held the door open, allowing us to enter with a gesture of respect. Then I walked in and every single staffs  bowed to me while greeting to which I simply nodded and straightly headed to the reception area where the receptionist Ms Veronica Smith is and she spoke.

Veronica - Good morning , Ms Emerald . *greeted while bowing*

I replied .

Leora - Good morning to you too, Ms Veronica , Has everyone arrived for the meeting ?? . *monotone*

She replied .

Veronica - Yes, ma'am. Everyone is here and waiting for you in the meeting room . *she said with a smile*

Hearing this I nodded and said .

Leora - Well, that's good to hear then , I'll head to the meeting room now since it’s already 11:50 am . *monotone*

Saying this i walked to the VIP elevator area ans entered in the elevator, the doors closed smoothly, and I pressed the button for the 45th floor. A quiet hum accompanied my ascent. Moments later, a soft ting signaled my arrival. Stepping into the corridor, I made my way toward the meeting room, where I spotted Ms Aliyah Scott, my trusted personal secretary, waiting for me outside of the meeting room.

She is a 28 year old striking Italian woman who is not only beautiful but a sharp minded and loyal women she is one of my most trustable person in Emerald's Empire someone I deeply admire. As I have two companies to run, I’ve entrusted her with this one, while another secretary manages the other company Which is The Limerence Empire No : 1 Company in the world .

Aliyah - Hello, Ms Emerald , It's nice to meet you after a long time. *said smiling*

I replied .

Leora - Well, same here, Ms Aliyah , By the way  is everything prepared for the meeting ?? . *monotone*

She replied .

Aliyah - Yes, ma'am. Everything is perfectly prepared for the meeting , We were just waiting for you to arrive. *said professionally*

Hearing this I nodded my head and said smiling slightly .

Leora - Well, that's good. Let's head inside and start the meeting ,  I don't want to delay it and make others wait We need to be punctual. *said smiling slightly*

Adjusting my clothes slightly, I opened the door and stepped into the meeting room with a blank expression, Aliyah quietly following behind. The room was vast and elegant, designed in a greyish-blue and golden theme, exuding luxury. Large windows framed a breathtaking view of the outside city world .

{ The Meeting Room :- }

As I entered, the quiet murmur of people's conversations ceased and Everyone, already seated, immediately stood up and bowed in respect to which I acknowledged them with a nod, my steps purposeful as I approached the table With all eyes on me, and I spoke.

Leora - Hello, everyone Welcome to The Emerald's Empire , I'm Ms Emerald. *said with a stoic face*

Everyone x Leora & Alyiah - Hello, Ms. Emerald. It's so nice to meet you in person, and we are very honored to be here. *said smiling slightly*

Hearing this, I nodded and observed the Kim's and Shin's staring at me, especially my so-called mother, who looks at me as if she is admiring me, mean while my so-called half-sister looks at me with pure hatred and jealousy, but hell, do I look like I care  Absolutely fucking no, so I simply ignored them and said.

Leora - Well, the pleasure is mine. I'm glad you all could make it , So Let's not waste any more time and begin the meeting. *monotone*

After saying this, I took a my seat at the head chair and the others took their seats and The meeting soon began as everyone presented their ideas and initiatives, and I paid close attention to everything and listened intently since I don't want to make any mistakes or invest in something that won't be beneficial.

Soon The meeting came to an end soon, and everyone was staring at me eagerly with a anxious expression, waiting for me to tell them which company would get the deal and one of the Buisness man spoke who is the The CEO of The Jung Enterprise's.

Mr Jung - Well, Ms. Emerald, since the meeting is finished, can we know which company will get the Spring Launch deal ??. *asked anxiously*

I replied .

Leora - Of course, I’ll reveal the chosen company but before that First, I want to acknowledge that all of your projects are impressive, and it's clear that you’ve all put in a lot of hard work. However, the project that truly caught my interest and attention is from Kang's Enterprise So the deal will go to them. Congratulations, Mr Kang . *cold tone*

Everyone nodded, but I could see their true emotions disappointment and anger masked by their forced politeness Since they are standing in my Empire. Then I noticed Kims and Shins were notably disappointed as well but I chose to ignore it, However then Mr Kand rose up from his seat with a genuine smile and said.

Mr Kang - I'm really glad you liked our project, Ms Emerald and chose us for the deal and We are very happy to work with you. *smiling geniunely*

I replied .

Leora - I’m also looking forward to working with your company. However, remember that I expect loyalty and no mistakes and If you break these rules, or else you'll face the consequences. *cold tone*

He gulped hearing my words and said .

Mr Kang - Of course Ms Emerald Don’t worry, we won’t disappoint you. We know how fortunate we are to get this project, and we promise you won’t regret it . *said smiling nervously*

I replied .

Leora - Well that's good to hear, Mr Kang and I hope you keep your words and The meeting is now finished, Now everyone may leave. *said calmly*

{ Leora's POV End  :- }

── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──

{ 250+ 𝖵𝗈𝗍𝖾'𝗌 𝖺𝗇𝖽 125+ 𝖢𝗈𝗆𝗆𝖾𝗇𝗍'𝗌 𝖿𝗈𝗋 𝖴𝗇𝗅𝗈𝖼𝗄𝗂𝗇𝗀 ꗃ 🗝️ 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝖭𝖾𝗐 𝖢𝗁𝖺𝗉𝗍𝖾𝗋 }

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o( づ♡⊂ )o

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