"Alex, is there something on your mind?" Keller's grandfather inquired, knowing full well that Alex would not disturb him at the office unless it was of utmost importance.
"Grandfather, I have come to share some good news with you."
"What news could possibly bring you such joy?" Keller's grandfather asked, intrigued, as Tian Tian couldn't help but feel equally curious, observing the uncontainable delight etched on Alex's brow.
"Grandfather, do you recall my pursuit of a collaboration with Star Ocean Global Media? Today, Shen Zhen himself called to arrange a meeting for next Friday afternoon to discuss the partnership." Alex's heart raced with excitement at the prospect of securing such a significant deal.
"Is it true?" Keller's grandfather exclaimed, a mix of surprise and delight in his voice. Though Alex had been the one spearheading the negotiations, and a successful collaboration would greatly benefit the Andra Corporation, the competition within the entertainment industry was fierce, making the prospect of success seem remote.
"Yes, Grandfather, it is true," Alex affirmed solemnly.
"That is wonderful news indeed," Keller's grandfather beamed, his joy infectious, further lifting Alex's spirits. In her previous life, Keller's grandfather had been a victim of Tian Tian and Ethan's conspiracy, a fact that fueled Alex's determination to see them receive their just desserts.
The conversation then shifted to the intricacies of the potential collaboration, with Keller's grandfather and Alex deeply engaged, while Tian Tian listened, only half-comprehending the details.
Having majored in finance during her university years, Tian Tian's academic performance had been lackluster. Glancing through the projects the Andra Corporation was pursuing had left her feeling overwhelmed, tempting her to abandon her efforts. Yet, the sight of Alex's accomplishments spurred her on, driving her to study harder, fueled by the desire to surpass her and prove her own merit.
Witnessing Keller's grandfather's elation, Tian Tian knew that this collaboration held the promise of substantial profits for the company. If successful, it would only solidify Alex's position in the company, further widening the gap between them. The thought filled her with anxiety and resentment; after all, she was the rightful heir of the Andra Corporation. Why was Alex stealing her thunder?
"Tian Tian, do you have any thoughts or opinions regarding our collaboration with Star Ocean Global Media?" Keller's grandfather asked, noticing her preoccupied expression.
Caught off guard, Tian Tian blushed furiously, stammering for words, unable to articulate a coherent opinion.
Alex, observing this scene, couldn't help but sneer inwardly. Tian Tian, though diligent in her work, lacked the acumen for business negotiations. In her previous life, Alex had often supported Tian Tian, yet she had reaped all the glory, undeservedly so.
Keller's grandfather, too, was disappointed. Though Tian Tian had only recently taken on this role, she had served as Alex's secretary for quite some time. Her inability to contribute meaningful insights was concerning, casting doubts on her potential to lead the Andra Corporation into a prosperous future.
Tian Tian felt deeply hurt by Keller's grandfather's disappointment, believing that if it weren't for Alex stealing her identity, she would have had access to better learning opportunities and could have surpassed Alex in talent and achievement.
Ethan, meanwhile, had been relentlessly pursuing Alex, to the point of becoming a source of gossip and scandal within the company. Despite his apologies and promises to stay away, the rumors persisted, painting Alex as a deceitful interloper who had stolen Tian Tian's boyfriend.
Alex found these rumors frustrating, her ambiguous identity and the intense glare of the spotlight making her an easy target for criticism. Yet, thanks to her cultivated influence and refined demeanor, she fared better than she had in her previous life.
On her way home from work, Sheng Xiangdong accompanied Alex, filling the car with his chatter while she listened silently, occasionally offering a response. This was their usual dynamic, and Sheng Xiangdong had grown accustomed to it.
As they arrived at the Andra mansion, Sheng Xiangdong abruptly mentioned, "My mother has introduced me to several young ladies, urging me to meet and dine with them."
Alex's brow furrowed slightly at the mention of Sheng Xiangdong's mother arranging matchmaking sessions for him.
"Have you met any of them?" she inquired lightly.
"No," he replied, only to be interrupted by Alex.
"You're almost thirty. Perhaps you should heed your mother's advice and meet with them, find someone suitable, and start a family." Alex spoke sincerely, her words weighted with meaning.
Sheng Xiangdong's expression darkened at her words, gripping her shoulders tightly as he demanded, "Is that what you truly desire? To see me married to another woman? Does my presence in your heart mean nothing to you?"
"I'm sorry," Alex replied calmly, enduring the pain in her shoulders. "I've made it clear from the start that there can be nothing between us. Forget me and find your own happiness."
As she spoke, Alex felt Sheng Xiangdong's grip tighten, as if he could crush her with his bare hands. But just as suddenly, he released her, slumping back in his seat, defeated.
Alex gazed at him for a moment before unbuckling her seatbelt and exiting the car. As she walked away, she heard the engine roar to life, turning to see Sheng Xiangdong's car disappearing from view.
She knew she was being cruel, but she couldn't offer Sheng Xiangdong love. She hoped he would find the courage to move on and embrace his own happiness. With a deep breath, Alex banished her melancholic thoughts and stepped into the mansion, only to find Alex's mother waiting for her, her eyes devoid of the warmth they once held.
"Follow me," Alex's mother instructed coldly. "I need to speak with you."
Alex hesitated for a moment before complying, following her mother upstairs.