rimanded her for it. I swear, I would never fabricate such a claim." Lara's anger erupted as she yelled, "How dare you accuse me of lying, Nadia! You are simply envious becaus

y own path to follow, and it does not lie within this stifling corporate world." "If you choose not to accompany me, your credit cards will be seized," Vince declared with a cold, calculating tone. "Vince, please don't do that to our son. Adrian will go with you," Judith interjected, pleadingly. "Adrian, I beg of you, for my sake, do not defy your father. Please, go with him," Judith begged, tears streaming down her face. "Mum, I cannot bear to see you cry. I will go with him," Adrian said, relenting to ease his mother's pain. Vince smirked from his position, reveling in the satisfaction of his manipulation. "I knew Judith would get the job done, she knows how to manipulate Adrian after all. That is all she is good for." "Dad, I am prepared to go with you," Adrian stammered, his determination shining through. "That is better for you," Vince responded coldly. THE KIM'S HOME Ji Hye awoke with an anticipation that shimmered in her eyes. She had devised a brilliant plan to surprise her elder brother, Jae, at his office. Determined to create an unforgettable day, her mischievous nature took hold. Bounding down the stairs, Ji Hye discovered her mother, Mrs. Kim, preparing breakfast in the kitchen. Sporting a sly grin, Ji Hye couldn't resist teasing her mother before unveiling her surprise. "Mum, guess what? I have a secret mission today," Ji Hye declared, her voice oozing with mischief. Mrs. Kim turned around, a curious expression on her face. "Oh, really? Please, tell me about this secret mission, Ji Hye," she replied, playing along with her daughter's game. Leaning in closer, Ji Hye's eyes sparkled with mischief. "You see, I plan to surprise Jae at his office today. I want to witness the expression on his face when he sees me there!" she exclaimed, barely able to contain her excitement. Mrs. Kim's eyes widened in surprise, but she couldn't help but chuckle at her daughter's audacity. "Oh my, Ji Hye! That sounds like quite the adventure. However, remember to be on your best behavior. We wouldn't want to disrupt your brother's work," she reminded her mischievous daughter. Ji Hye nodded eagerly, her grin widening. "Of course, Mom! I promise to be good. But a little teasing won't hurt, right?" she replied, her eyes twinkling with mischief. Mrs. Kim laughed, well aware of her daughter's playful nature. "Alright, just a little teasing. But don't take it too far, my dear," she warned, attempting to conceal her own amusement. With breakfast completed, Ji Hye bid her mother farewell and made her way to Jae's office. BLACKWOOD HOLDINGS Upon arriving at the building, her heart raced with excitement. As she approached the entrance, she noticed a stern security guard. Taking a deep breath, Ji Hye donned her most innocent expression. Approaching the guard, she spoke in her sweetest voice, "Excuse me, sir. I'm here to surprise my brother, Jae. Could you possibly assist me?" The security guard, unwavering in his commitment, peered down at Ji Hye with a stern countenance. "I apologize, miss, but I cannot permit unauthorized visitors into the premises. It goes against the rules," he responded firmly, leaving no room for negotiation. Ji Hye's mischievous spirit surged in the face of resistance. She resolved to put up a fight, refusing to abandon her plan. Summoning her courage, she attempted to reason with the guard. "But I truly wish to surprise my brother! It will only take a few moments, and I assure you, no trouble shall arise," Ji Hye pleaded, her eyes brimming with unwavering determination. The security guard remained resolute, unaffected by Ji Hye's entreaty. "I understand you, miss, but I am bound by duty. I cannot compromise the building's security or the privacy of its occupants," he