Chapter 6: A Hidden Agenda
Xiaoyu's determination to uncover the truth only grew stronger as the days passed. She continued to research, pouring over documents and articles, searching for any mention of her biological family or Alexander's connection to them.
One evening, as she was reviewing some financial reports, she stumbled upon a peculiar transaction. A large sum of money had been transferred from Richardson Industries to a shell company, which was later revealed to be owned by Henry Shen.
Xiaoyu's eyes widened as she realized the implications. Alexander was secretly funding her adoptive father's business ventures. But why?
She couldn't shake off the feeling that there was more to it than met the eye. Alexander's involvement with her family seemed to go beyond mere business dealings.
As she delved deeper, Xiaoyu discovered a web of deceit and corruption that went all the way to the top. Her adoptive family was embroiled in a complex scheme, and Alexander was right in the middle of it.
With her heart racing, Xiaoyu knew she had to confront Alexander. She couldn't let him continue to manipulate her family and control her destiny.
But as she turned to leave, she felt a presence behind her. She spun around to find Alexander standing in the doorway, his eyes gleaming with a knowing intensity.
"Xiaoyu, we need to talk," he said, his voice low and urgent.
Xiaoyu's heart skipped a beat as Alexander approached her. She could sense a newfound intensity in his gaze, a sense of purpose that made her skin prickle.
"What is it, Mr. Richardson?" she asked, trying to keep her voice steady.
Alexander smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Please, call me Alexander. We're beyond formalities now, don't you think?"
Xiaoyu nodded warily, her mind racing with possibilities.
"I know you've been digging into my business dealings," Alexander said, his voice low and even. "I must say, I'm impressed. You're quite the detective."
Xiaoyu's eyes narrowed. "What do you want, Alexander?"
He chuckled, the sound sending a shiver down her spine. "Oh, I think you know. I want to help you uncover the truth about your past. About your family."
Xiaoyu's heart skipped a beat. "What do you know?"
Alexander leaned in, his voice dropping to a whisper. "I know everything, Xiaoyu. And I'm willing to share it with you... for a price."
Xiaoyu's eyes locked onto Alexander's, her mind racing with possibilities. What could he possibly want in exchange for the truth?
"What do you want?" she repeated, her voice firm.
Alexander smiled again, his eyes glinting with amusement. "Oh, I think you'll find my terms quite... reasonable."
He paused, studying her for a moment before continuing.
"I want you to work with me, Xiaoyu. Together, we can uncover the secrets of your past and bring down those who have wronged you."
Xiaoyu's instincts screamed at her to beware, but a part of her was tempted. Could she really trust Alexander?
"What's in it for you?" she asked, stalling for time.
Alexander's smile grew wider. "Let's just say I have my own reasons for wanting to take down the Shen family. Reasons that have nothing to do with you, Xiaoyu."
Xiaoyu's eyes narrowed. She didn't believe him for a second.
"I don't trust you," Xiaoyu said, her voice firm.
Alexander chuckled. "I expected as much. But let me ask you this, Xiaoyu: do you really have a choice?"
Xiaoyu hesitated, unsure of how to respond. Alexander's words struck a chord within her. She was desperate for answers, and he seemed to be the only one who could provide them.
"Fine," she said finally. "I'll work with you. But if I find out you're deceiving me, there will be consequences."
Alexander grinned, seemingly pleased with himself. "I wouldn't have it any other way, Xiaoyu."
And with that, the unlikely alliance was formed. Xiaoyu couldn't shake off the feeling that she was making a deal with the devil himself, but she pushed on, determined to uncover the truth.
As they began their investigation, Xiaoyu realized that Alexander's resources and connections were vast. He seemed to have eyes and ears everywhere, and he knew exactly where to look for information.
But despite his helpfulness, Xiaoyu couldn't shake off the feeling that Alexander was hiding something from her. She decided to keep a close eye on him, unsure of what he might be capable of.