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Chapter 10 - Rising Stakes & Hidden shadows

Morning at the Villa – Announcing the Future of Lim Group

The golden morning light bathed the luxurious villa in warmth. Joshua sat in his private study, his laptop open as he reviewed the latest developments in his rapidly growing empire. Lim Group was officially established, but now came the real challenge—staking his claim in multiple industries.

A notification popped up from the Dragon Head Group chat, an exclusive network of second-generation CEOs and powerful business moguls.

Dragon Head Group Chat

Mr. Kim (Kim Enterprises): "Chairman Lim, now that Lim Group is official, what's your next move? AI? Finance? Tech?"

Member A (Feng Logistics): "Yeah, a billion-yen starting capital is impressive, but what's your long-term vision?"

Member B (Zhao Real Estate): "Most young tycoons blow their wealth showing off. Are you just another rich kid with money to burn?"

Joshua's fingers tapped the desk rhythmically. He could feel their skepticism, their curiosity. This was a test.

Joshua: "Lim Group is here to dominate. AI Program Alpha will be our first step in revolutionizing global technology. After that, we move into finance, logistics, and high-tech infrastructure. We don't compete—we redefine industries."

The chat went silent for a few moments. Then, finally:

Mr. Kim: "Bold. We'll be watching."

Joshua smirked. They could watch all they wanted—soon, they'd be following.

Li Wei's Growing Insecurity

Across the city, in an extravagant penthouse suite, Li Wei's grip tightened around his phone as he read the Dragon Head Group chat.

"Chairman Lim… Lim Group…" He muttered under his breath, jaw clenched.

It was happening again. The same guy he had once humiliated was now taking over the same circles he dominated.

His "friends," the same elite heirs who had mocked Joshua, were now talking about him with respect.

Slamming his phone onto the table, he turned to see Xiao Rou, sitting elegantly on the couch, scrolling through WeChat. Her expression was unreadable, but he could see the hesitation in her eyes as she lingered on a particular post—Jia Yi's latest update about her time with Joshua.

Joshua's name was everywhere.

"You're still thinking about him, aren't you?" Li Wei's voice was sharp.

Xiao Rou blinked, shaking her head. "Of course not. It's just… surprising. He wasn't like this before."

Li Wei scoffed, his expression darkening. "Tch. He's just throwing money around. Let's see how long it lasts."

But deep down, a gnawing insecurity crept into his mind. Joshua wasn't just some fluke—he was dangerous.

Sung En's Invitation – An Exclusive Night at Azure Club

As Joshua wrapped up his morning business, a new message appeared on his phone.

Sung En: "Chairman Lim, are you free tonight? There's an exclusive event at the Azure Club. Shanghai's elite will be there. It's the perfect place for someone like you."

Joshua smirked. Sung En was testing him, inviting him into the heart of high society.

Joshua: "I'll come. But only if you save me a dance."

A short pause before her reply.

Sung En: "I wasn't planning on dancing, but… maybe I'll make an exception."

He chuckled. She was intrigued—but not completely his yet. That would change soon.

The Unknown Warning

Just as he was about to leave for the day, another notification flashed across his screen.

Unknown Sender: "Chairman Lim, you're making bold moves. But not all eyes watching you are friendly. Be careful who you trust."

Joshua's smirk faded.

Who the hell was this?

A flicker of irritation passed through him as he attempted to trace the message, but whoever sent it had covered their tracks perfectly.

Titan Dynamics? Li Wei? A new enemy?

He leaned back, exhaling slowly. A challenge was coming. He just didn't know from where.

Night at Azure Club – A Game of Power and Attraction

The Arrival

The Azure Club wasn't just any high-end venue—it was a sanctuary for Shanghai's ultra-rich. Only the elite were allowed past the velvet ropes, and Joshua arrived in style.

Dressed in a sharp black suit, he stepped out of his Bugatti, immediately drawing the attention of onlookers. Men envied him. Women admired him.

Inside, the atmosphere was electric—a dimly lit, sophisticated lounge filled with the scent of luxury perfume and expensive whiskey.

At the VIP section, Sung En stood waiting. She looked stunning in a silk dress, silver hair cascading over her shoulders, her striking eyes scanning the crowd until they locked onto Joshua.

"You're late," she teased.

"I like making an entrance," he replied smoothly.

A Rival's Challenge

Before their conversation could continue, a tall, well-dressed man approached.

Chen Ye, heir to the Ye Financial Group, smirked as he slid into the conversation.

"Sung En, I was hoping to have a drink with you tonight," he said, pointedly ignoring Joshua.

Joshua remained unfazed. He simply smiled, watching as Sung En's expression shifted—mild annoyance flickering in her gaze.

"I already have company tonight," she said coolly, glancing toward Joshua.

Chen Ye's smile faltered, his eyes narrowing slightly. A challenge was brewing.

"You know, Chairman Lim," Chen Ye said, swirling his whiskey, "money alone doesn't make a man powerful. Influence does. And real influence isn't bought—it's earned."

Joshua met his gaze, completely composed. "And what makes you think I haven't earned mine?"

A slow smirk spread across Chen Ye's face. "How about a little wager?"

Sung En raised an eyebrow. "What kind of wager?"

Chen Ye leaned in. "A business deal. If Chairman Lim can outmaneuver me in a negotiation tomorrow, I'll publicly acknowledge his status. But if I win…" He turned to Sung En, "You'll let me take you on a date."

Joshua chuckled. Bold. But foolish.

He looked at Sung En. "Are you okay with that bet?"

She crossed her arms, intrigued. "I don't like men deciding things for me, but… I'm curious to see who wins."

Joshua turned back to Chen Ye. His next words were calm, controlled—but laced with quiet dominance.

"You're on."