“Adrian! Wait!”

The sharp voice rang out just as Adrian stepped out of his grandfather’s study. His breath was still heavy, his mind swirling after hearing the monumental decision: he had been officially named the primary heir to the family’s wealth and company.

Adrian halted, turning to see an elegant woman with piercing eyes—his stepmother, Marcelline. Her beautiful face was clouded with fury, her eyes burning with rage she could hardly conceal.

“What now, Mother?” Adrian’s voice was calm, but there was an icy firmness to it.

Marcelline strode forward quickly, the click of her heels echoing across the marble floor. “Do you think this decision is fair? You’ve only...