CHAPTER 161: DON’T LET HIM TAKE OVER!!

One day later - Morning — Pearl Villa

The gentle hum of the TV blended with the clinking of plates and the smell of toasted bread. The sun had just climbed above the horizon, painting the kitchen in a warm golden hue.

Daniel sat on the couch, his reading glasses perched on the edge of his nose, eyes fixed on the TV.

Miles stood behind the sofa, towel draped over his shoulders, still catching his breath from the morning run. His hair was damp, the faint sheen of exertion still clinging to his skin.

Elena’s soft voice drifted from the kitchen. "Breakfast will be ready soon, dear," she said, setting down a tray of scrambled eggs and fruit on the table.

On the screen, the news anchor’s voice grew serious.

"After two days of protest and public chaos, the matter involving Venus Foods has finally reached a conclusion late last night."

Miles’ eyes narrowed slightly. He leaned forward, resting his hands on the back of the couch.

"The international Korean-based company, Venus Foods — once one of the most popular brands in the country — faced major allegations of adulteration," the anchor continued. "The company’s CEO initially blamed all responsibility on the Managing Director of the Star Harbor facility, Mr. Liam Rodriguez."

Elena stopped placing plates for a moment, looking toward the screen. Daniel exhaled slowly.

The anchor went on, "For those unaware, Mr. Liam Rodriguez is the husband of late Ice Hockey Champion, Maria Rodriguez — a name cherished by many Star Harbor residents."

Miles’ jaw tightened briefly.

"He was accused, pressured, and even threatened over the kidnapping of his daughter. In this scandal, the Star Harbor Police Chief, Thomas Marshall, was found to be directly involved."

Elena gasped softly. "Oh my god..."

Daniel frowned. "So the Chief was dirty after all."

The anchor’s tone softened.

"However, last evening during court hearings, it was proven that Mr. Liam was innocent. Evidence revealed that the real culprit behind the adulteration was none other than the CEO of Venus Foods himself. The case has now been handed over to Interpol for international investigation."

Miles’ expression remained unreadable, but Daniel caught the subtle glint in his son’s eyes — that quiet satisfaction that justice, though delayed, had been done.

The anchor continued, "Mr. Liam’s kidnapped daughter has been found safe and sound, thanks to the efforts of the new Chief of Police, Sam, who replaced the corrupt leadership of his predecessor."

A photo of Sam appeared on the screen, standing tall in uniform, addressing reporters.

"In an exclusive conversation with Sterling Media," the anchor said, "Chief Sam revealed how he uncovered the truth by going against his own senior, ultimately rescuing the child and bringing justice to the family."

Elena smiled faintly. "That’s a brave man."

Daniel nodded. "Good leadership still exists."

Miles silently smiled.

The screen shifted to the next headline.

"Venus Foods has now been banned from operating within the country. Meanwhile, Sterling Enterprises has announced their decision to take over the existing facilities and rebrand them under a new, safe, and locally managed company."

Miles glanced down slightly — expression still calm, though Elena caught the tiny smile tugging at the corner of his lips.

The field report began. A reporter stood among a crowd of protestors near the city square.

"The tension that gripped Star Harbor these past two days seems to have turned into relief and praise," the reporter said, holding a microphone toward a man who had been leading the protests.

The man spoke earnestly, his voice steady.

"It’s good that our law and order system handled this so quickly and fairly. On behalf of everyone who protested, I sincerely apologize to Mr. Liam Rodriguez for our mistaken judgment. We’re also grateful that Sterling Enterprises stepped forward to take responsibility. It’s a homegrown brand — one that cares for the people. We trust them."

The feed cut back to the anchor in the studio. She smiled, her tone lighter now.

"As he said, Sterling Enterprises once won the heart of the Frost Queen, now wins the heart of the people."

The screen faded to the network logo — Keep watching Sterling Media.

Miles straightened up, a quiet exhale escaping him.

Daniel turned off the TV and looked over his shoulder. "You really don’t sleep, do you?"

Miles smiled faintly. "Sleep is overrated."

Elena set down a plate in front of him, her voice soft but full of pride. "Maybe. But breakfast isn’t."

Miles chuckled — that small, rare sound that made Hope and Asher giggle from their seats at the table.

The smell of fresh breakfast filled the room.

Elena looked at her son quietly for a moment before asking,

"When are you leaving, son?"

Miles wiped his hands with a napkin and replied,

"I’m leaving today at noon."

Elena nodded slowly. "I know Citadel is important for you. Your real relatives are all there. Your grandfather used to talk about them, though he never wanted your father to go. But I won’t stop you. I only know that you are my son — and that’s all that matters."

Miles smiled faintly. "They’re not important, Mom. You are. Our family is. I’m just going to settle a few business things, that’s all. I’ll be back to celebrate Father’s birthday together."

He turned to Daniel.

Daniel chuckled softly. "You better," he said. "Don’t make us eat the cake without you."

Elena’s smile grew warm.

Miles leaned back in his chair. "Also, I have good news for you."

Elena raised an eyebrow. "What is it?"

Miles said casually, "Mr. President is coming to Star Harbor on Tuesday. He’s chosen The Atelier for dinner."

Elena covered her mouth in shock. "What?"

Daniel almost dropped his cup. "How come we didn’t know this?"

Miles grinned. "Because the visit isn’t officially declared to the public yet. He’ll be here for the inauguration of the new Weapon and Arms Research Center."

Elena’s mind was already racing. "It’s so soon! I have to prepare so many things—"

Daniel nodded quickly. "Right. I’ll go check everything today."

Miles laughed softly. "Don’t worry, you two. I’ve already alerted the staff. The Secret Service will arrive tomorrow for precautionary measures. Just keep it simple — you only have to take care of the food. Leave the rest to our trusted people."

Elena sighed with a half-smile. "Alright, but I still have to prepare myself. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance!"

Miles chuckled. "It’s just another guest, Mom."

"Not for me," Elena said, eyes sparkling with excitement.

"Big bro!" Hope shouted suddenly. "I want to see him too!"

Asher raised his hand. "Me too!"

Miles nodded with a grin. "Yes, yes, you’ll both meet him."

The family laughed together, the sound filling the house with warmth.

Breakfast ended soon after.

Miles picked up his keys and jacket.

"Alright, I’ll drop them off at school," he said, standing.

Elena called from the kitchen, "Drive safe!"

Miles smiled. "Always."

He walked the twins to the car, Hope holding one hand and Asher the other.

The morning light shone gently on the villa’s porch as they climbed in.

__

Few hours later

The house was quiet now.

Miles stepped in, the calm settling over him like an old coat.

Daniel and Elena had already left for The Atelier.

Only the faint hum of the grass machine from the outside and the ticking of the hallway clock filled the silence.

Miles took out his phone and dialed.

The line clicked, and Monica’s familiar voice answered, light but alert.

"Hello, boss. Packed up already?"

"Is everything ready?" Miles asked, straight to the point.

"Boss, the safe house is prepared," Monica replied quickly. "But I’ve made some changes. You won’t land in Citadel directly. You’ll arrive at an outer strip, then take a chopper. That way, no one will be able to confirm you’ve entered the city."

Miles nodded, even though she couldn’t see him. "Good. What about security here?"

"June took care of it," Monica said. "Also, Sterling Security has already coordinated with the President’s Secret Service for his upcoming visit."

She paused, then added, "Because of their involvement, all public and private eyes are focused on Star Harbor. While you’re gone, neither the WEB nor Kyle’s men will dare make a move."

Miles exhaled quietly. "Perfect. It’s time for me to leave, then."

Monica chuckled softly. "Safe journey, boss."

Miles’s voice carried a faint smile. "That’s yours to ensure."

"Yes, yes, I know," she teased. "But whenever it’s you, things tend to get... unpredictable."

Miles laughed under his breath. "That’s what keeps life interesting."

The call ended.

Moments later, a staff member approached with the black travel bag Miles had packed earlier.

He slung it over his shoulder, gave a nod of thanks, and stepped outside.

The car engine came to life with a deep growl. The villa’s gates slid open, revealing the bright stretch of the Star Harbor road ahead.

Without another word, Miles drove toward the airport — the start of yet another silent storm.

Citadel City — SYND Hospital

The faint hum of medical machines filled the quiet room.

Diane stood near the door, fresh flowers in hand.

"The meeting is set, ma’am."

Silvey didn’t look up from the window. "Alright, I’ll be there tomorrow."

Diane hesitated for a second. " You should check Mr. Kyle’s movements? He’ll definitely be cooking something."

Silvey’s tone was cold. "He won’t be successful."

A weak, trembling voice came from behind them.

"D... d-don’t... let him take over..."

Silvey froze, her eyes widened. She turned around sharply — her fa

ther was awake, struggling to speak.

"Dad!" she gasped, rushing to his side and grabbing his hand.

Diane stepped back, reaching for her phone. "I’ll call the doctor!"

To be continued...