Chapter 282 Clarissa’s New Goal
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Zev came off as carefree, as if nothing mattered to him. But underneath that facade, the loss of his father, Sylvester, and his mother’s suicide had left deep scars.
He’d always fought against taking the inheritance of Lockhart Group.
He would have rather died than take control, silently protesting beside Wade.
But now, for Kelly and the kids, he had made the choice to step up.
He understood that if he didn’t grow stronger, he could never protect his family.
“Zev..” Kelly’s voice broke through his thoughts, a soft smile tugging at her lips. “When I first came back from Solmaris, I felt like the world–like God–had abandoned me.”
“I thought I must be a terrible person, to be left by everyone.”
“Kelly …” Zev’s heart twisted at the pain in her eyes.
“But now…” Kelly shook her head slowly, her smile growing. “Now, I feel so lucky. Maybe all my misfortune was meant to lead me to you.”
Zev sank to his knees in front of her. “Kelly, I’ll never let you down. Not in any way.”
Kelly smiled warmly, her eyes filled with trust. “I believe you.”
“You deserve it.” Zev wrapped her in his arms, holding her close.
The chamber of commerce’s gala was just around the corner.
As CEO of Lockhart Group, Zev should’ve been the focus of the event, even if Wade had not fully relinquished control. After all, he was the rightful heir.
But the invitation? It had been addressed to Wade.
It was clear that someone had bribed the organizers to make sure Wade was the one expected.
This gala, however, Zev couldn’t afford to miss.
If he stayed away, and Clarissa, the ‘future first lady of Lockhart Group,‘ attended in his place, the business world might start seeing Zev as a mere puppet.
“Who’s the president of the chamber this year?” Zev asked, his tone low, measured.
“This year, it’s Von Croswald. The Hardisons put him in charge,” Hanson replied.
Zev’s jaw tightened, his voice growing darker.
“I guess keeping a low profile isn’t an option anymore.”
He stared at the invitation, a cold laugh escaping him. “Clarissa’s worried I’ll bring Kelly. If I do, she’ll lose her claim as Lockhart Group’s ‘lady.”
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Chapter 282 Clarissa’s New Goal
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Seaville’s business world was a ruthless game, where connections equaled power. As the top player, Lockhart Group was everyone’s target, and Clarissa had used her position to weave an intricate web of alliances,
“We’ll pick up Kelly first,” Zev said, his voice firm, decisive.
After firing off a quick message to Caden, Zev leaned back, closing his eyes for a moment. This was more tiring than any undercover operation he’d been a part of.
Back in Solmaris, if the higher–ups swooped in and concluded the operation, Zev felt sure that once Lucas was out of the way, he could’ve taken charge…
But running a company wasn’t simple. It was like an ancient emperor ruling a court–strategic, calculated, and requiring a sharp mind.
A sigh escaped his lips. He could feel a migraine coming.
The chamber’s gala was alive with activity.
Clarissa, holding the invitation, walked into the lounge surrounded by a group of polished women, all wearing the airs of high society.
“Clarissa, darling! Where have you been these past few days? We couldn’t reach you. We were so worried!”
The others joined in, all eager to gain Clarissa’s favor.
“I’ve been caught up with a project,” Clarissa responded, her tone detached and cool.
She soaked in their attention. As a child, the Lynches had never been respected, often mocked by the so- called elites and rich heirs.
But now, thanks to Lockhart Group, she had reached the pinnacle. She’d never let this slip away.
“Clarissa, I heard Zion’s back. Why isn’t he here with you?” one of the women asked, a smile dancing on her lips.
The whispers about Zion and Clarissa’s strained relationship were well known. Zion didn’t want to marry her; the whole thing had been pushed by Wade.
Clarissa’s smile twisted bitterly. “He’s a soldier, just back from service. He doesn’t enjoy these events. I’m here in his place. And in the future, Lockhart Group will be represented by me.”
The women exchanged admiring glances.
Lockhart Group was a name everyone knew.
“So, you’re going to take the public reins while Zion handles the private side of things?” one woman teased, eyes twinkling with curiosity.
Clarissa gave a soft laugh, neither confirming nor denying.
“I’m a bit tired, ladies. I’ll rest for a while and join you in the hall shortly,” she said, dismissing them with a casual wave.
Once they left, Clarissa turned to her assistant.
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Chapter 282 Clarissa’s New Goal
“Everything’s handled?”
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The assistant nodded quietly. “Yes, Z The assistant nodded quietly. “Yes, Zev and Kelly have no invitations.”
Clarissa exhaled in relief. She knew Zev well enough to be sure he’d avoid this event. He had no interest in the spotlight.
The Lynches couldn’t afford to lose their grip on Lockhart Group.
“I can handle Wade later,” she muttered to herself.
“I heard Shawn Wagner from Hallowick will be attending today’s banquet. He’s the rising star of the financial world. I need to make sure I secure that connection.” Her voice was firm, deliberate.
She had to be strategic. Shane wasn’t a Lockhart, and her position was precarious. The chances of Zev marrying her were slim. She needed a backup plan–if she couldn’t win over the Lockharts, she’d settle for Shawn.
As long as Zev and Kelly didn’t stir up trouble tonight, she was confident that victory would be hers.
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Iviy undercover Cop Hubby
