Billionaire

Chapter 31

Linda flashed a warm smile as she began, “In our news department, we’re all graduates from top–notch universities and have received the best education. I’m sure there’s been a misunderstanding here. Even if there’s some truth to it, it definitely wasn’t anyone from our team.”

“As for the prime–time anchor position, I won’t be competing with Chloe for it. She can have it.”

Her voice was gentle and soothing, like the song of a nightingale in the woods. She deftly shifted the conversation in just a few sentences.

Vivian looked at Linda with gratitude. Not only did she preserve Vivian’s dignity, but she also diverted everyone’s attention by willingly giving up the prime–time anchor spot.

Chloe, however, let out a mocking laugh. “It sounds like you had the anchor. position all wrapped up, and now you’re just handing it over to me.”

“Chloe, you’ve got it all wrong. That’s not what I meant at all.”

“Then what did you mean?”

“Alright, enough, both of you,” Tony finally interjected, clearly exasperated.

“Regarding the anchor position, here’s what we’ll do: Our network is planning to interview a very important figure. Whoever secures an exclusive interview with him within a week will become the prime–time anchor.”

“Of course, the interview must be completed within a week. So, you two better get moving.”

Someone curiously asked, “Sir, who is this important figure you’re talking about?”

Tony revealed, “Mr. Connor Sartori.”

The room was filled with surprise. “Mr. Connor is one of the Eldridge Elites, so he must be in Eldridge City, right? Besides, Eldridge TV has never interviewed Mr. Connor. How could he possibly agree to an interview with our local

station?”

Kyle from the photography department chimed in, “You call yourselves

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Chapter 31

reporters, yet you don’t know this key bit of info? Mr. Connor has been living in seclusion in Riverbrook for three years. The mysterious BK Group in Riverbrook is actually a branch of Sartori Corporation. Riverbrook is about to launch a government–approved resort project, which Mr. Connor is in charge- of, but so far, only the inner circles know about it.”

“How did you find out if it hasn’t been announced yet?” someone asked.

“I’m not too familiar with the project either, but my sister’s classmate’s cousin knows the Meadows family’s daughter, who recently attended the 70th birthday banquet of the Sartori family old lady. All the top families of Riverbrook were invited, and that’s how the news of the King of Eldridge living

in Riverbrook got out.”

Tony added, “That’s right. Everyone is somewhat familiar with who Connor is. The Sartori family is the wealthiest in the nation, and Connor is the sole heir. So far, he has never given any media interviews.”

“Since Mr. Connor has never given an interview, it shows he’s extremely private. It might be difficult for our plan to be successful.”

“The resort project is about to be announced to the public. This is a great opportunity, and I think it’s worth a try. Of course, it’s still a huge challenge. If it doesn’t succeed, so be it. But if it does, Riverbrook TV Station will have. achieved something even Eldridge TV hasn’t.”

Tony’s eyes sparkled with excitement. “I have faith in both of you. Whoever succeeds will naturally deserve the prime–time anchor spot. If not, I will use other criteria for my evaluation.”

After leaving the meeting room, Chloe’s expression was unusually serious.

Linda approached her. “Chloe, you attended the matriarch’s birthday banquet, didn’t you? Why does no one inside the station know you’re a daughter of the Meadows family as well?”

Chloe looked up. “Linda, why did you come to work at this TV station? Wasn’t taking Lucas from me enough? Now, you want to take my job, too?”

Linda’s face remained innocently puzzled. “You’re misunderstanding my actions. I just think, working here is best suited for my major. I never intended to take anythin

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“Really?” Chloe lounged back in the plush leather chair like a lazy cat. “I’ve always wondered what went down between you and Lucas at that summer camp. Lucas isn’t exactly the type to be easily seduced.”

When Lucas was with her, he was protective and caring. Chloe could feel his love. But after that summer camp, Lucas had completely changed. The love was gone and replaced by hatred.

Linda’s face flushed slightly as she seemed to recall something from years ago.

Chloe, sensing she was onto something, shrugged. “Never mind, I’m not interested in your dirty laundry.”

“It’s not what you think,” Linda hurried to explain.

But Chloe had lost her patience and stood up. “Linda, don’t mess with me, or l might just revert to who I was three years ago. Now, if you will excuse me, I need to do my makeup.”

Chloe had to get ready to anchor the noon news. As Linda watched Chloe disappear from sight, her expression turned icy.

‘Chloe, I will take everything from you. Your husband, your job, your family. I will leave you with nothing. You will be deserted by everyone, disgraced. I’m waiting for that day. Then you’ll understand why I did all this.’

Later that night, Linda returned to her suite at the Eldridge Hotel. Lucas was already there.

Linda walked over, pleasantly surprised. “Weren’t you supposed to go back home today?”

Lucas wrapped an arm around her shoulders, his hand resting on her abdomen. “I missed you and the baby.”

A shy blush crept across Linda’s face. where you are. I’m happy.”

1 you saying that, it doesn’t matter

Linda’s voice was soft and gentle. “As long as your heart is with me, I don’t feel any hardship. Luca, we’ll be a happy family of three once the baby is born.”

Lucas nodded. “Don’t worry, I’ll sort things out with Chloe soon. I’ll make sure you and the baby have a proper place in my life.”

At the mention of Chloe, Lucas‘ face darkened. “Today was your first day at the TV station. Did Chloe give you a hard time?”

Linda’s eyes flickered. “No… She blames me for taking you away, and she’s always been like that.”

“I knew it. She bullied you, didn’t she? I’m going to sort this out right now.”

Lucas started to walk away, but Linda grabbed his arm, her voice gentle yet firm. “Don’t. When I’m with you, this little bit of grief means nothing. You going back now will only make things worse, and your parents will dislike more. I can handle this.”

e even

Thinking of his parents‘ attitude towards Linda, Lucas stopped. He pulled her close again. “If you’re ever mistreated, you must tell me. I won’t let Chloe keep bullying you. And remember, I was never hers. You didn’t take me from her; Chloe never deserved me.”

Linda leaned against Lucas‘ chest, a determined glint in her eyes. Then she spoke softly again. “Luca, have you met Connor? Do you know him?”

g from you. Lucas wasn’t something I took.”

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Lucas chimed in, “Our company’s been digging into his preferences for the Paradise Resort project. But he’s super private, and his whereabouts are like a mystery, so we don’t know much about him.”

Lucas looked down and asked, “Why are you asking about him?”

Linda replied, “The station said if I can snag an exclusive interview with Connor, they’ll give me the prime 7 p.m. slot. But when I called CNR, they said TV interview bookings are backed up for six months.”

Lucas frowned, deep in thought. “The only thing we know is that Mr. Connor likes to play golf at the Royal Golf Course in the mornings. Maybe you can start there.”

Linda looked worried. “But the Royal Golf Course is Riverbrook’s most exclusive members–only club and has a membership fee of two million. dollars. How could I possibly get in?”

Lucas responded, “My granddad’s a member of the Royal Golf Course. I used to go with him all the t

and the manager knows me. I’ll call them

tomorrow, and you can go in as my wife.”

Linda’s eyes lit up, “Really? I can go in as your wife?”

Lucas watched her, delighted and excited. He tapped her nose. “Of course, in my heart, you’re the real Mrs. Moncada.”

While Linda was in the shower, Lucas called Chloe. “Chloe, if you mess with Linda again, I’m gonna deal with you.”

Chloe was puzzled by the call. With a hint of amusement, she said, “What, did Linda run and tattle on me?”

“She isn’t like you. She doesn’t say one thing to your face and another behind your back. You already have plenty; don’t try to take everything from her.”

After hanging up, Chloe was sulky and tossed her phone on the desk. Sometimes, she really admired Linda. She had taken what originally belonged to Chloe, and yet, in the end, Chloe was made out to be the villain.

Chloe looked at the document on her computer screen, where she had just

typed Resignation Letter” She suuddenly closed her laptop. Why should she have to resign just because Linda showed up? Originally, Linda had taken Lupas away from her, but she was made the villain, and now, did she have to give up her job too7

Of course, she had thought about resigning for long time for many reasons. But now, she suddenly dismissed the thought. Even if she were to resign, it would be after she became the prime–time anchor.

After closing her laptop, Chloe picked up her phone again. She scrolled through her contacts and found “Trophy Boy” Without hesitation, Chloe called him. The call was quickly answered.

“Ms. Chloe, do you need something?”

Ms. Chloe, a distant form of address. He was probably still upset about being stood up last time. Perhaps he had also decided to keep his distance from her. This was, of course, what Chloe hoped for.

Chloe, unusually serious, spoke to him, “Mr. Connor, I’m Chloe, a journalist from Riverbrook TV Station. I’d like to set up a personal interview with you. Do you have time?”

There was a scoff on the other end. He knew it was about work. She wouldn’t contact him otherwise.

Connor was silent for a few seconds before speaking, “Chloe, you’ve got some nerve. After standing me up last time, you now want to schedule an interview with me.”

Chloe was silent for a moment, then spoke lightly. “This is a separate matter. Mr. Connor, you might not realize this, but I always keep professional and personal issues separate.”

On the other end, Connor seemed amused by her response, “If you want to schedule an interview, come to Greenpeace Estate now and apologize to me. We can discuss the rest later.”

Chapter 34

Chloe glanced at the wall clock. It was ten at night. She knew exactly what would happen if she went over there now. Going to that place was never just a casual visit

“No, thanks,” Chloe said. “If it’s business, let’s handle it during the day. Mr. Connor, you pick a time, and I’ll be there to apologize.”

Connor knew Chloe well. She might look all sweet and charming, but she was stubborn as a mule. She wouldn’t do anything she didn’t want to, even if it meant burning bridges.

“Fine,” Connor replied coolly. “Tomorrow morning at nine, at the Royal Golf Club.

Chloe had never been to the Royal Golf Club but knew Antonio was a member. Though he rarely went, he paid the annual two–million–dollar membership fee without fail. The nice thing about that club was that family members could enter just by mentioning the member’s name.

The next morning at nine, Chloe arrived at the Royal Golf Club right on time. She approached the registration desk after entering, where a handsome young man greeted her.

“Miss, you seem new here. Are you a member?”

“Antonio is my father–in–law, so I should be able to enter, right?” Chloe responded.

The young man looked surprised, “You’re also Mrs. Moncada?”

“Also?” Chloe’s eyebrows furrowed. “Is there another Mrs. Moncada?”

The young man pointed to a figure not far away. “That lady also claimed to be Mrs. Moncada. Antonio is a big deal in Riverbrook. He only has one son and one daughter. It’s impossible to have two daughters–in–law.”

Chloe followed his gaze and saw Linda, who seemed just as surprised to see her. The young man looked uncertain. “Please wait a moment. I’ll find our manager.”

The manager arrived quickly, already scolding as he came. “I told you that

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Mrs. Moncada would be coming today. Mr. Lucas informed us in advance. You should have just let her in. Now you’ve gone and caused a fuss.”

The young man looked hurt. “You said one Mrs. Moncada, but you didn’t mention there’d be two.”

“Two Mrs. Moncadas? How could that be?” The manager was equally puzzled.

By then, Linda had approached Chloe. “Chloe, what are you doing here?”

Chloe smiled sweetly. “If I hadn’t come, would I have known someone’s been posing as me?”

“Chloe, what are you talking about? I don’t understand.”

The manager, now more confused, looked between Chloe and Linda. “So, which one of you is the real Mrs. Moncada?”

The golf course was bustling with activity. The idle rich were naturally drawn to any drama. “What’s this early morning show? The real vs. fake Mrs. Moncada?” someone joked.

Connor, surrounded by a group of people, was also making his way over. He’s dressed casually in a black hoodie and joggers, and his tanned skin gave him an air of unattainable nobility. Standing among the others, he seemed like the only one that mattere

Chapter 35

Chloe spotted him, too.

To be honest, in the last three years, Chloe had rarely seen him fully dressed. So, seeing him at Marian’s party really threw her for a loop. It wasn’t because of his high status but because his whole vibe had changed. He had gone from a carefree playboy to a cool, refined gentleman. She just couldn’t wrap her

head around it.

Next to Connor, a guy with gold–rimmed glasses chimed in, “Riverbrook really is a paradise. Even polygamy is allowed. No wonder you didn’t want to leave for the capital three years ago, Connor.”

The others laughed. “Devon, you’ve got the guts to joke about Connor. Don’t forget, we traveled all the way from Eldridge to work for him.”

“Yeah, Riverbrook’s customs are wild. I envy Mr. Lucas–two beautiful wives, one stunning like a queen, the other charming and sweet. What a lucky guy.”

The hotel manager was feeling a headach, staring at the two silent women.

Linda bit her lip, saying nothing. She was soon to become a prime–time TV host, a household name. She couldn’t afford a scandal. She knew Chloe well. Back in school, Chloe never competed with her. Chloe always stepped aside, whether it was for pretty dresses, bags, scholarships, or opportunities to study abroad. Linda had taken so much from her, including Lucas, which was the final straw that drove Chloe mad.

But so what? Lucas had been with Linda for three years abroad, and Chloe knew but didn’t care. Chloe wasn’t as fierce as she looked. Her striking beauty often made people think she was aloof and competitive, but in reality, she was more laid–back or maybe just too proud to compete.

Linda hoped Chloe would/step aside now, but things didn’t go as planned. Chloe gave her a half–smile, neither speaking nor backing down, waiting for Linda to make the first move.

As the standoff continued, one of Connor’s friend‘ suddenly spoke up, “Mr. Connor, I remember Mr. Lucas and Mrs. Moncada attending the grand lady’s 70th birthday. You should know who the real Mrs. Moncada is.”

All eyes turned to Connor, including Chloe’s and Linda’s. Linda’s heart skipped a beat. So this was Connor, the King of Eldridge, the man she wanted to interview. Her heart raced. Lucas had mentioned attending Marian’s birthday with Chloe, but with a hundred tables of guests among top elites and only two for Riverbrook, they were practically nobodies.

Connor probably couldn’t remember who was who, but Chloe’s beauty was unforgettable. Linda felt a pang of uncertainty. If her identity was exposed now, the exclusive interview would go to someone else.

Chloe also watched Connor. Given their shared history, asking for a small favor didn’t seem too much.

By now, the manager had approached Connor, waiting for his confirmation. Connor glanced at Chloe and said coolly, “I don’t know any Mr. Lucas or his wife. If you want to know who the real Mrs. Moncada is, just video call Mr. Lucas and have him identify her himself. He can’t possibly not recognize his

own wife.”

“Right, right, how silly of me. Thank goodness for your suggestion, Mr. Connor. J’ll call Mr. Lucas right away.”

Chloe’s heart sank as her frown deepen. He totally did it on purpose.

The video call connected quickly.

Chapter 36

“Martin, what’s going on?” Lucas‘ voice came through the phone.

“Sorry to bother you, Mr. Lucas, but you mentioned your wife would be here. today. Now, we’ve got two Mrs. Moncadas. Can you tell us which one is your wife?” Martin said, panning his camera over Chloe and Linda.

Lucas furrowed his brows–he hadn’t expected Chloe to also show up today. She must have found out Linda was coming and decided to tag along. Chloe always had to compete with Linda about everything.

Without much hesitation, Lucas said, “The one in white is my wife.”

Linda was indeed wearing white today, while Chloe was dressed in a pink tracksuit.

The manager, smiling, said, “Got it, Mr. Lucas. We’ll take it from here and make sure Mrs. Moncada is well taken care of.”

After the call ended, whispers filled the room. A crowd had already gathered in the hall, including many socialites and high–society ladies.

“She actually comes here pretending to be someone’s wife and gets caught. How embarrassing.”

“With a face like that, maybe she’s here trying to hook up with a guy.”

“She could be Mr. Lucas‘ side piece and is here to provoke the real wife. Why else would she use Mr. Lucas‘ name and come on the same day as Mrs. Moncada?”

Chloe and Lucas had actually had a wedding ceremony three years ago, attended by just a few close relatives and friends. So, while people in Riverbrook knew Mr. Lucas was married, they didn’t know who his bride was.

Amid the gossip, Chloe seemed unfazed. Kyle approached her, his demeanor much less courteous than before.

“Miss, you’re not a member here. Please leave immediately.”

Without a hint of embarrassment, Chloe lazily pulled out a card from her bag.

“Then I’ll sign up for a membership now. Can I go in then?”

The room fell silent.

The manager, taken aback, said, “Well, you can… but the membership feel here…”

“Two million, I know. Charge it,” she said.

Many were shocked, still processing what had just happened. The ladies who had sneered at Chloe were now speechless. Most of them had accessed the club using their husbands‘ or fathers‘ memberships, not their own.

The manager’s expression changed dramatically, his smile even brighter than before. He even neglected Linda and directed the front desk to take Chloe inside while he personally escorted her to the VIP room to process her membership card.

The young gentlemen gathered around Connor showed increasing interest.

“That card looks like a Platinum Cheetah Card, right? There are only five hundred in the world, and all major banks accept it. It offers complimentary services at all seven–star hotels globally, a true status symbol.”

“I remember Mr. Connor has one too. There are no more than twenty people in the entire country who have this card and they’re all of exceptional standing.”

“What’s Ms. Chloe’s background?”

Those who had ridiculed Chloe were now wide–eyed. Two million dollars might not have been a big deal, but owning that platinum card was another story. It’s not something the average wealthy person could have. The issuing institution of this card had extremely strict criteria. Even among royal families. worldwide, no more than three individuals owned this card.

Ms. Chloe’s identity was a mystery.

Of course, Chloe was unaware of all this. The card was for an account her friend had opened for her. The annual dividends QUEEN paid her were all deposited into this card. The balance had already reached eight hundred million dollars. To her, two million was trivial.

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Connor noticed Chloe pull out that card, and his thoughts began to swirl. How did Chloe get her hands on that card? Neither the Meadows family nor the Moncada family would ever qualify for such a card.

The Royal Golf Course sprawled expansively, nestled between mountains and a serene lake, offering breathtaking views. While the people around Connor were already gripping their clubs, eager to start, Connor chose to sit down at the pavilion. A waiter brought him a sandwich and a plate of fine dessert. He was used to having his breakfast here.

Standing a bit away, Linda observed Connor, who seemed to be like a god of another world. Dressed in casual black attire, he looked strikingly handsome, his well–defined hands casually picking up the sandwich. Even the way he ate was elegant, exuding a kind of lazy grace. He had a demeanor similar to Chloe’s–an effortless confidence born from a life of privilege.

Linda approached. “Mr. Connor, may I sit here?”

Connor looked up to see a young girl standing by the chair next to him.

“This is a public lounge area, Mrs. Moncada. Make yourself comfortable,” he replied, his voice neutral and polite yet with a hint of detachment and aloofness.

Linda took the seat. “Mr. Connor, I actually came here specifically to find you.”

Connor remained indifferent. “Mrs. Moncada, what do you need?”

“Please, allow me to introduce myself. I’m Linda, a news reporter from Riverbrook TV Station. We would like to arrange an exclusive interview with you about the Paradise Resort project.”

Linda felt a bit nervous.

Connor didn’t even look up, replying indifferently, “I’m not interested.”

“Mr. Connor, the Paradise Resort project is about to launch. You’ll need publicity to attract investors. As far as I know, you are the recognized sole heir to Sartori Corporation. Still, your two sisters currently hold significant positions in the company and are at odds with you. What you need most right now is a chance to prove yourself to your father. That’s why you chose the

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Paradise Resort project and have been laying low here for three years. This project is crucial for you.”

Connor turned to give Linda a cool glance. “You seem well–informed about my family.”

Linda felt a bit intimidated by his gaze, her heart racing, but she mustered the courage to continue. “Riverbrook TV Station is the most authoritative traditional media outlet locally. We are willing to cooperate with you, Mr. Connor. Whenever you need media support in the future, we can provide it. This is definitely a win–win situation.”

Connor stayed silent, seemingly deep in thought.

Just then, a lively noise erupted from ahead. Some people had started playing golf. Linda’s gaze followed the commotion, and she saw Chloe, surrounded by a group of aristocratic young men, swinging her golf club. She stood tall, her swing elegant and precise, captivating the onlookers. The eyes of the surrounding young men were practically glued to her.

A flicker of jealousy crossed Linda’s eyes, but she quickly regained her composure. Just as she was about to continue speaking, Connor had already stood up and started walking towards the commotion.

As soon as he arrived, he heard Devon’s praising voice. “Beautiful! Ms. Chloe, are you a professional golfer? Maybe I should take lessons from you.”

Chloe smiled charmingly. “You flatter me. It’s just a hobby.”

“What are you all doing?” Connor asked.

Chapter 38

Devon practically glued to Chloe’s side, which made Connor’s brow furrow in annoyance. He stepped in to break up the scene.

Leaning casually on his golf club, Devon chuckled, “Mr. Connor, it looks like we’ve met our match today. Ms. Chloe here has skills that put us all to shame. Honestly, only you might stand a chance against her.”

Someone in the crowd chimed in, “Why don’t Mr. Connor and Ms. Chloe have a go at it?”

That’s exactly what Chloe had been waiting for. She grinned at Connor. “Mr. Connor, care to challenge me to a round?”

Chloe was quite the sight today, looking strikingly different from her usual self. Dressed in casual sportswear, her tall and flawless figure was on full display. Her makeup was subtle, giving her that effortlessly polished look. With her hair tied up in a high ponytail, her glowing fair skin and delicate features made her seem almost youthful and innocent.

The young men around could hardly take their eyes off her.

Before Connor could respond, Chloe added playfully, “Mr. Connor, you’re not scared, are you?”

“You clearly don’t know our Mr. Connor well enough. He’s ranked second among the Eldridge Elites, and no one dares to claim the top spot,” someone from the crowd remarked.

Chloe smirked, “Well, the social dynamics of the Eldridge Elites don’t hold much sway here in Riverbrook.”

Her implication was clear: Connor’s top ranking was more about others avoiding beating him than his actual prowess.

The crowd exchanged glances, silently admiring Chloe’s boldness.

Connor responded coolly, “How do you want to play?”

Chloe pointed to the open course ahead. “Let’s tackle this par–4 hole.”

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14.40

Someone in the crowd noted, “Ms. Chloe just scored a birdie on that hole, finishing in three strokes.”

Connor, unfazed, instructed his caddy, “Bring me my club.”

Chloe continued, “Since it’s a competition, we should have a wager.”

“What do you have in mind?” Connor asked.

Without missing a beat, Chloe replied, “If I win, how about you give me your first exclusive interview, Mr. Connor?”

The crowd quickly caught on.

Chloe had come with a clear purpose: to get to Mr. Connor.

Her challenge was a calculated move.

However, it seemed she might have underestimated her opponent.

Indeed, Chloe’s skill was impressive. Finishing a par–4 in three strokes was beyond what many professionals could achieve. The praise she received wasn’t just empty flattery.

Still, it was clear she didn’t fully grasp Connor’s true capabilities.

The onlookers watched with eager anticipation. Even Linda had come over to see the showdown.

“Beat me first, then we’ll talk,” Connor said.

With everything set, Chloe spoke, “Mr. Connor, you go first.”

Connor didn’t hesitate. He stepped up to the tee and swung his club in a graceful arc.

Excited cheers erupted from the sidelines as Connor’s ball landed neatly on the green with his first stroke.

The crowd followed Connor onto the green, where he switched to a putter and smoothly sank the ball into the hole.

Applause erupted, “An incredible eagle! A par–four hole in just two strokes! Mr. Connor never losts it.”

Then, sympathetic looks turned towards Chloe.

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Chapter 38

“Ms. Chloe, maybe you should reconsider. Mr. Connor was trained by the national golf champion.”

“Mr. Connor might just be an amateur, but if he went pro, he’d be a legend.”

“Losing to Mr. Connor isn’t anything to be ashamed of.”

Chloe, unfazed, walked to the red tee with her club. “I haven’t taken my shot yet. Let’s not assume the outcome.”

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Everyone thought Chloe was just making a last–ditch effort to avoid embarrassment. It was obvious she was at her limit.

Getting the ball in the hole in four strokes on a golf course was considered pro–level. Three strokes was called a birdie and was already impressive. Two strokes, known as an eagle, was the mark of top athletes. A hole–in–one? That was rarer than winning the lottery–practically impossible.

Chloe stood at the tee, lifted her golf club high, and swung with all her might. The ball soared through the air, tracing a high arc straight towards the green.

Everyone rushed to the green. Devon was the first to get there. When he saw no ball on the green, he searched in disbelief before it dawned on him to check the hole. Sure enough, he found Chloe’s golf ball nestled inside.

Devon froze for a half–second, then excitedly raised the ball, shouting, “A hole–in–one! Ms. Chloe got a hole–in–one!” He looked even happier than if he’d

made the shot himself.

Everyone was stunned. This seemingly delicate Ms. Chloe had scored a hole–in–one. For professional players, it was something that might’ve happened once in 20,000 shots. It required absolute skill and a hefty dose of

luck.

The expressions on the faces of the guys watching Chloe shifted from amusement to admiration. News of Chloe’s hole–in–one spread quickly across the entire course. More and more people came to see her since a hole–in–one was a rare sight. Many even wanted a photo with Chloe.

According to tradition, scoring a hole–in–one meant giving generous tips to the caddies and staff. Chloe seemed well–prepared and had a bunch of envelopes in her sports backpack. She instructed the caddies to distribute them. Everyone was amazed.

“Ms. Chloe came prepared.”

“It looks like her three–stroke play was just her tricks.”

“Mr. Connor, you’ve got to admit, Ms. Chloe really had you figured out.”

“But where did Ms. Chloe learn? Could it really be her skill that got her that

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hole–in–one?”

Why would she have the envelopes ready in advance if she wasn’t fully confident?

Chloe casually responded to the surrounding crowd, then looked at Connor. “Mr. Connor, you should keep your promise now, right?”

Connor replied coolly, “I only said we’d talk if you won. I never agreed to give you an interview if you did.”

Chloe’s face stiffened. She was reminded of those intimate moments when he

would promise it was the last time, but then, while holding her in the shower, he’d cheekily claim he never said that. As these thoughts flickered through her mind, her cheeks involuntarily flushed. Those around her thought she was flushed with anger and began to speak up in her defense.

“Mr. Connor, that’s not very gentlemanly, picking on a young lady like that.”

“A bet’s a bet, man. It’s just an interview.”

“Exactly, we know you’re better than this, Mr. Connor.”

Watching the crowd rally around Chloe as if they were her knights in shining armor, Connor felt a surge of irritation. He said coldly, “I despise manipulative people the most.” He gave a warning look to his childhood friends and

buddies around Chloe. “If any of you want to play her knight in shining armor, I’m gonna cut ties.”

The crowd watched Connor with a mix of surprise and fear. Though known as the King of Eldridge, Connor was usually faultless toward his friends–like gathering them for this significant project to share the benefits. The fact that he would say such things over a woman was unexpected.

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Everyone could see that Mr. Connor was genuinely pissed off, and it was all because of Chloe.

But why?

Regardless of the reason, nobody could afford to tick off Mr. Connor, a top dog among the Eldridge Elites, over a woman. The guys who had been hanging around Chloe quickly backed off.

Linda watched, a slight smirk curling her lips. It looked like even Chloe’s beauty had its limits.

Chloe and Linda returned to the TV station separately, neither mentioning the incident at the golf course.

That afternoon, there was a team meeting.

Tony was practically buzzing with excitement. “Finally, our big break! Chloe, Linda, who managed to snag an interview with Mr. Connor?”

Both Chloe and Linda looked a bit taken aback. The rest of the team was just as surprised.

“Mr. Connor agreed to an interview?”

“Yep, CNR called, and they’ve set it up for tomorrow. They want someone there at nine.”

Vivian asked, “So, who’s doing the interview?”

Tony said, “They didn’t specify. They just told us to send someone at nine. Mr. Connor has cleared two hours for us.”

Still a bit dazed, Tony asked, “Chloe, Linda, why didn’t you say anything when you got back? Who managed to arrange the interview with Mr. Connor?”

Chloe frowned slightly. Connor’s attitude that morning clearly showed he wasn’t interested. So why the sudden change of heart now?

While Chloe stayed silent, Linda calmly spoke up, “Sir, it was me.”

Tony beamed. “Excellent, Linda! I knew you had it in you.”

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Get ready for the interview tomorrow morning at nine with Ar Connor Pull this off you’ve got a bright future ahead”

Tony still buzzing picked up his phone need to report this to the station manager. This is big news the manager at Eldridge TV has tried to get Me Conor several times without succes, and now Riverbrook 1 y Station has done it. The manager’s gonna be thrilled

Tony left the room

Everyone gathered around Linda

Linda, that’s amazing! How did you do it?”

“No wonder you’re a top grad and interned at NHC Your skills are way beyond some people who are just eye candy”

Landa, the prime time host spot is definitely yours.”

“When you become the prime time host, you’ve got to treat us to dinner”

Linda smiled modestly, a hint of shyness in her demeanor “Ejust got lucky Tonight, dinner’s on me at the Antique House for some Italian cuisine”

Antique House was a high end Italian restaurant in Riverbrook that was known for its extravagance. The journalists working at the TV station didn’t have particularly high salaries, so none of them had ever dined at such a luxurious place before

Everyone cheered and praised Linda’s generosity even more..

Linda stood up and approached the silent Chloe. “Chloe, want to join us for Italian tonight?”

Chloe gathered her documents, smiling warmly at Linda. “Of course, Inever turn down a free meal.”

That evening, the group arrived at Antique House. Linda had already reserved a private room. The group admired the upscale decor, showering Linda with more compliments.

“Linda, do you come here often?”

Linda modestly replied, “Not really, just occasionally

Chapter 40

“This place isn’t for regular folks. And you tell us you don’t have an ordinary background?”

“Linda managed to study abroad. How could she come from a poor family?”

“Linda, come clean. Which wealthy family’s daughter are you?”

Linda responded, “I haven’t lied to you. My family’s financial situation isn’t great. My studying abroad was all thanks to my boyfriend.”

Linda glanced at Chloe, sitting across from her. “My boyfriend’s family is well–off, and he loves me a lot. I went abroad with him.”