Meanwhile, on a secluded island — twelve hours behind where the twins were currently located...
Atlas sat behind a desk, flipping through a stack of documents in his hand. Standing beside him was his assistant, Allen.
"What we also found is that the Young Family has close ties with the Lancasters of Novera," Allen reported, adjusting his glasses. "Rumor has it that the two families would become one through an engagement."
"And?"
"It just so happens the Lancasters reached out to the firm you set up in Novera for a partnership on their current project," Allen continued. "And the man leading the project is Derek Lancaster—the one engaged to the daughter of the Young Family."
Atlas paused, eyes settling on Derek Lancaster’s profile.
"I see," he said after a moment of cold silence. He raised his lashes toward Allen and handed back the background reports on everyone connected to the twins at the moment. "Approve their request for a meeting. Give them what they want."
Allen frowned. "Sir, are you sure? There are rumors about the Youngs and the Lancasters—"
"People are always nice to those they benefit from," Atlas said coldly, leaning back in his chair. His tone was as glacial as the northern winds, and every word struck harder than a blizzard. "Those two didn’t run from the Youngs, which means they liked it there. Might as well reward them—or give them ransom—before they ask for it."
Allen’s face soured. "I believe the Young Master and Young Miss weren’t kidnapped, sir. Even if they were, it is not something to worry about."
"Then call it a reward," Atlas replied flatly. "As long as they treat the twins well until I arrive, I won’t have a problem. Send them flowers too for their engagement."
Allen let out a shallow breath before nodding. "I’ll make the call."
With that, he left the home office, closing the door behind him. But instead of leaving right away, he paused and glanced back.
"The Young Family and the Lancasters are really lucky," he whispered. "I just hope they take care of the Young Master and Young Miss... until he makes them redo that petition."
After all, those twins were the lifeline of everything under their father’s name. As long as they were happy, Atlas would gladly reward those they liked. But those who dared to harm the twins—even slightly, intentionally—would bring forth a cold inferno no one could have imagined.
It had happened once. And everyone who remembered it learned a brutal truth:
It was better to cross Atlas himself... than to ever harm his children.
Even if those children could fend for themselves.
****
[Young Family Residence]
Since the crack of dawn, the residence had been in a frenzy. Every corner scrubbed until not a speck of dust remained, private chefs perfecting dishes they’d been rehearsing for months, and every detail of the décor elevated to grandiose perfection.
The Young Family had always been socially active, with ties to noble families even above their station. But the Lancasters belonged to a higher plane—the true peak of the upper echelon.
This engagement was the Youngs’ golden ticket. Once secured, their networks and business prospects would expand exponentially. No wonder everyone was so enthusiastic.
Amid the bustle, Mr. and Mrs. Young stood in the grand lobby, overseeing everything.
"There she is!" Jasmine clapped, prompting her husband Lawrence Young to look up toward the stairs.
A satisfied smile formed on his face as he saw their daughter descending, wearing a short white dress that emphasized her gentle charm. When Melissa finally stood before them, Lawrence nodded in approval.
"You look beautiful," he said, reaching out affectionately. "Heaven is truly on my side to give me a daughter like you."
After all, Melissa was the reason this day had come. The opportunity with the Lancasters felt endless. His other daughter—Lola—had been originally engaged to Derek Lancaster, but he’d never considered that a blessing.
Why? Because Lola was unruly. Disliked by many. Defiant. She wouldn’t bring stability. She never listened. If she married into the Lancaster family, Lawrence knew she’d cast them aside the moment she could.
But Melissa? Melissa was different.
"Look at all these flowers," Lawrence gestured toward the lavish arrangements. "They’re from everyone who heard about the engagement. All the people who wishes you and Derek a successful engagement."
Melissa’s smile brightened as she took in the sight.
"And yet you’re still the most beautiful one in the room," Jasmine added, making Melissa blush slightly.
"Mom..." she touched her nape shyly. "You’re making me feel embarrassed."
"Sir, the Lancaster Family has arrived."
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