The Second Chance Revolution

Chapter 1

**Let’s Get Divorced**

“Where am I?”

Edward Green jolted awake, drenched in sweat. The room around him was both alien and hauntingly familiar, casting a shadow of disbelief across his pale face.

“Why am I here? Didn’t I fall into the endless ocean...?”

Everything felt surreal, like a vivid dream. This was his home—or more specifically, his wife Isabella Hart’s home.

He had been a live-in son-in-law for six months, suffering indignities that would make any man cringe. His life had ended abruptly at a dinner, where he fell prey to a kidnapping scheme that took him beyond any imagined fate.

That very abduction spiraled him into a place called Eldoria, where he ascended through the ranks of the Ironblade Order, mastering The Nine Celestial Forms and achieving a level of power and respect that struck awe in many. Known as the Emperor, he wielded Sinthara's Blade, donned in armor that could tame dragons, commanding thunder and fire as he stormed the skies to confront the Elder Royal House, determined to topple a decaying regime and carve out new order.

But just as he reached the pinnacle of his power, he was betrayed by a fellow disciple, plunging him back into the abyss of that endless ocean.

He expected oblivion, but the universe had other plans. He was back, facing that same day once more.

Edward struggled to accept the reality unfolding before him.

“God truly has a sense of humor, sending me back here. Is it to fulfill some unfinished business...?”

With that thought, a resolute spark ignited in his eyes, and a wry smile tugged at the corners of his mouth.

“Since fate has granted me this second chance, history will repeat itself. I will finish what I started and return to Eldoria, reclaiming my destiny and vanquishing the Elder Royal House to establish my own rule.”

As time pressed on, Edward began to embrace the fact of his rebirth.

Stretching his wrists, he focused inward to feel his energy. The reserves were alarmingly faint, and the spiritual essence in the air was so thin it caused him to frown in concern.

With a sigh, he recognized the challenge ahead. Though blessed with another opportunity to live, the hurdles before him were numerous and warranted his attention one at a time.

He glanced at the clock on the wall and noted it was already noon.

Time to explore, he thought. Mastery takes time, and this life held much more than just training.

Stepping out of his room, Edward headed downstairs.

Just as he reached the bottom, he was taken aback to see a woman in a sharp business attire walking through the door.

She was stunning—barely in her twenties, with glossy black hair swept into an immaculate bun. Everything about her exuded intelligence and poise.

Her profile was striking, but it was her figure—a harmonious blend of curves—that drew the eye. She was not the type to be unremarkable; she was alluringly captivating.

Her eyes sparkled with a mix of intellect and warmth, and the soft tone of her voice melted through the atmosphere. It was almost too beautiful to be real.

He recognized her instantly; this was Isabella Hart—his wife.

By looks alone, they would seem perfectly matched, a couple crafted from the same mold.

However, their journeys diverged vastly.

Edward hailed from a small town beneath Brightford, where the family farm barely kept them afloat. He was an adopted son, with a sister still under the roof where two parents had vanished without a trace.

In contrast, Isabella’s accolades were almost a tidal wave of prestige.

Brightford’s reigning beauty.

One of the city’s leading young professionals.

A trailblazer in commerce.

An adjunct professor at the local business academy.

For years, Isabella collected titles as if they were trinkets, perhaps unaware of just how many she held.

There was no denying her excellence.

Even after facing countless trials during his time in Eldoria, Edward found himself begrudgingly admiring her.

Yet despite all her success, one blemish marred her otherwise flawless reputation.

She chose a man like Edward.

Their marriage had invited judgment from the world. Isabella faced whispers and scandal, her choices scrutinized as she’d traded in for a “loser” from the countryside.

There were even rumors that she must have issues—why else would a woman like her marry someone like him?

Isabella bore this with an admirable grace, never rising to defend herself against the barbs.

Initially, Edward had never understood why she’d chosen him.

But after witnessing the cruel turns of life in Eldoria, he comprehended her predicament. She felt cornered, bound to secure her status within the family, and marrying him was her safest escape.

Beneath her lay a cousin—an entitled, reckless heir and the apple of his family’s eye. Isabella, despite her brilliance, remained the shadow.

“Are you heading out? Have you eaten lunch?” Isabella’s voice broke through his thoughts as she entered the room, setting down her purse with an air of reassurance.

Edward felt a jolt. She had always been gentle, extending her warmth toward him even when society deemed him unworthy. Except for intimacy, she embodied every duty of a devoted wife.

“No, just woke up,” he replied coolly, settling down on the couch.

“I was hoping to talk to you about something,” she said, her voice soft but insistent.

“Yeah, I’ve got time,” he replied.

Without a moment’s pause, Isabella sank into the couch beside him, still clad in her professional wear, her legs elegantly crossed, which only enhanced the allure she naturally exuded.

She instinctively tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, looking relaxed yet poised.

“Actually, there’s something I want to share, and since you brought it up, you can go first.”

The subtle fragrance of her presence surrounded him, as he calmly responded, “Let’s get divorced.”

Chapter 2

**The Element of Surprise**

“Divorce. It’s time to get a divorce.”

Isabella Hart’s body stiffened as Edward Green’s words hung in the air. She felt as if she had misheard him.

“What… what did you just say? Divorce?”

Edward nodded, the weight of his decision palpable.

Shock and disbelief flickered in Isabella’s striking blue eyes. They had been living under the same roof for over six months; she had never expressed a desire for divorce. What was going on?

“Did something happen? If you're in trouble, please talk to me. Don’t keep things bottled up.” Isabella’s heart raced, more questions pressing against her thoughts.

“Is it the family? Did they cause problems again? You don’t have to worry about their opinions; one day, I’ll stand up for you and make things right.”

Edward shook his head. “It’s not about them. This is my decision, and honestly, it’s a liberation for both of us.”

“Is this because I haven’t been good enough these past few months?” Isabella’s voice trembled. “I know I’ve been busy and might have neglected your feelings, but my grandmother’s health… I couldn’t let the Hartwood family legacy fall into the wrong hands. Please try to understand.”

“It’s not what you think.”

“Is it because I haven’t been... you know, a good wife? Is that why?” Her cheeks flushed.

“Not even close. Stop overthinking it.” Edward’s tone was calm, almost detached. “I understand you brought me into the Hartwood family for a sense of power, but this life is not what I want. Don’t worry, even after our divorce, I’ll help you secure the Hartwood assets.”

Isabella’s beauty was undeniable. Even Edward, a man who had seen his fair share of captivating women, placed her at the top of his list. Yet, there was no love between them, no emotional connection. It felt tangled, creating more pain than needed for either of them.

Men like him were meant to roam the world, free and unfettered. He longed for a life full of unpredictability, unbound by the chains of expectation.

Realization struck Isabella. Edward wasn’t joking; this was real. But she could never know that the man before her was a mere shadow of who he once was—once full of ambition, now hardened by life’s battles.

“Thank you... thank you for your honesty…”

“By the way,” Edward interjected, eyeing her curiously, “don’t you have something to tell me?”

“Oh, uh…” Isabella fumbled, her face flustered. “Just one second.”

She rummaged through a stylish tote bag, pulling out several documents. “These two are for my uncle and aunt’s insurance. When they go to the hospital—whether for brand-name or generic meds—they’ll get 90% covered. I set this up because they always refuse to accept money when I visit.”

She pushed a loose strand of hair behind her ear, her brow furrowed with concentration. “And here’s another thing—Sophia just graduated. A friend of mine owns a company, and I recommended her for a job. Trust me, the pay is solid. Just have her sign the offer when you see her.”

As she detailed each page, Isabella’s sincerity shone through, despite the tension hanging between them. “Even after the divorce, if you need me, I’ll be here to help. No hard feelings.”

There was an air of regret in her expression. “I’m sorry it’s been hard on you this last half year. My family has been cruel, making snide remarks and undermining everything you’ve done. I promise, when we divide the assets, I’ll make it look like you left me. You deserve to exit the Hartwood family with dignity.”

Observing her face, Edward couldn’t help but smile, realizing how rare she truly was. A gem of a person. Yet, he knew they could never be together.

“Thank you. I appreciate this. I’ll bring them back for signatures.”

He felt a warmth seeing her caring side; after all this time, Isabella had never lacked for her own finances. Her monthly allowance had been generous, and she had covered his needs without complaint.

“I won’t take it. You’ve supported me for the last six months; it would be wrong to accept more of your money.”

As he started to leave, she called after him. “Are you really leaving now?”

“Yeah.”

Suddenly, Isabella pulled out a checkbook. “Here’s a hundred thousand; take it. For future expenses. A man shouldn’t go out into the world without cash.”

Edward was taken aback by her generosity. “I really can’t accept this.”

“Can we recap? We’ve got that dinner tonight for my grandmother's welcome home. Are you still coming with me?”

“Of course.” Edward couldn’t help but grin. “I said I’d help you. I’ll be with you for as long as you need me to secure the Hartwood inheritance. Besides, the divorce won’t take effect until tomorrow since the courthouse is closed this afternoon. So, technically, we’re still husband and wife for now.”

Her heart thrummed in response, a strange thrill sparkling through her. How was it possible that even during this, she could still feel such chemistry with him?

Tonight was significant; it was Isabella's grandmother's homecoming party, and Edward knew he had to be there.

Flashbacks from a life he’d once led flooded his mind. William Hart, Isabella’s cousin, had sent a car to pick them up for an event just like this—a trap orchestrated for their demise. They had almost met their end in a secluded area due to his conniving scheme.

But he had been reborn in Eldoria, while Isabella faded away. Now, the pattern was poised to repeat, but this time, the outcome would be different.

“I almost forgot,” Edward turned abruptly, his voice low and serious. “There’s something else you need to know.”

“What is it?” she asked, brow furrowing with curiosity.

“Tonight, your cousin William will come to get you for the welcome home dinner. Don’t accept a ride with him.”

“William? Really? Why would he do that?” she questioned, eyes narrowing with skepticism.

Their relationship had always been polite and distant at best. The thought of William coming to pick her up felt oddly out of character.

Just as she opened her mouth to ask more, Edward had taken his leave, vanishing into the shadows before she could query further.

Once outside Isabella’s luxurious villa, Edward strolled down the quiet asphalt road. All he craved was peace.

His fingers absentmindedly brushed against the ring still on his finger—the wedding band Isabella had gifted him, a white gold circle that felt heavy with memories. As a kid from the wrong side of the tracks, he had struggled to adapt to the lifestyle she was accustomed to. Yet after the accident brought him to Eldoria, he had found a way to transform the ring into a storage device filled with precious items he had hoarded.

Now, back in this world, it followed him.

Searching the area for any onlookers, he settled onto a bench. His fingers lightly traced the surface of the ring, and a thunderous excitement erupted in his chest.

It hadn’t lost its magical properties. It still held the ability to store treasures.

Chapter 3

Edward Green felt an electric thrill as he slipped the ornate ring off his finger, the one that had become more than just a piece of jewelry. It held a treasure trove of secrets—herbs, potions, techniques… everything he needed to carve out a promising future.

But amidst those precious items, something odd caught his attention. Tucked away in a corner of the ring’s storage was a broken sword, its hilt glinting faintly with a crimson hue, almost like blood.

"This is my Shentu Sword," he whispered, a rush of emotions flooding over him. Against all odds, the shattered remains of his once-mighty weapon had traveled back with him.

“Old friend, I thought I’d lost you for good,” he murmured, nostalgia washing over him. Edward wasn’t worried about its broken state; someday he’d find a way to reforged it to its former glory.

Right now, however, his priority was securing a place to land and perhaps, gather a bit of cash. If only he could gather Isabella Hart’s money, it would smooth out his worries. But Edward had his principles; there was no way he’d dip into her resources, especially since they were set to part ways tomorrow. Isabella had already sacrificed too much for him; taking more from her simply wasn’t an option.

With a glance at the time, he noticed he still had hours before the welcome banquet that evening. With purpose, he headed toward Scholar's Avenue in Brightford.

Brightford might be a second-tier coastal city, but it buzzed with cultural richness and history. In fact, the largest antique market in Southbrook Province was located here. Scholar’s Avenue was the go-to spot for treasure hunters, collectors, and history buffs alike.

It was afternoon, the prime time for browsing, and the bustling streets were lined with small vendors showcasing their bizarre collections. Leaning over tables filled with curious odds and ends, mastery in this complicated game was vital—an expert could unearth hidden gems while an inexperienced newbie would get swindled faster than you could say "steal."

Edward’s aim today was to declutter the insignificant items he’d unearthed. Something was better than nothing, and he estimated a few million dollars could be made from the right pieces.

“Look who it is—House Hart's own son-in-law,” voices murmured around him as he strolled down the avenue.

"This guy's a catch; don’t let him slip away!"

“What’s the deal? Think we could score something?”

A middle-aged man with a shaved head chimed in, "You rookies don't know, do you? Last time he dropped by he bought a vase from House Hart—a Qing dynasty piece no less—and sold it for a cool eight hundred."

“Are you serious, or are you messing with us?”

“Why would I lie? Even people from House Hart don’t have much respect for him. He’s just a nobody!” The man shrugged. “I remember one time, he got played for sixty grand with some fake chicken cups. That was a score for the seller.”

As Edward ambled further along, he felt like a wealthy heir navigating the dangers of a brothel, and the hawkers were more than eager to reel him in.

“Edward! You in the mood to check out Regal Treasures?” shouted a seller in a black robe and loafers, Thomas Clarke, a fixture of Scholar’s Avenue.

Edward recognized Regal Treasures, the largest shop here, and muttered to himself, "Why not?"

“After you, Edward!” Thomas cried, ushering him inside. Edward maintained a poker face as he stepped into the shop; it was filled with an eclectic mix of items, everything expertly curated to catch the eye.

“Would you like some tea?” Thomas offered eagerly.

“Yes, please,” Edward replied curtly, assessing the room but getting straight to the point.

“I take it you’re here to sell or maybe buy?” Thomas’s eyes sparkled with enthusiasm.

“Selling some stuff,” Edward stated plainly, his nonchalance only piquing Thomas’s interest further, knowing well that selling generally yielded higher profits than buying.

“Do tell me what you’re offering. I’m all ears,” Thomas responded, beginning to transition into a higher register of respect.

Edward raised an eyebrow, scrutinizing Thomas. “Are you sure you can make a solid offer?”

“Of course! Generally, I can call the shots when it comes to items customers bring in to sell.”

“I have a recipe for a Bone-Tempering Pill. What’s your take on that?”

At this, Thomas’s mind buzzed; despite being in the antique business, he was well aware of the value such a recipe could hold. Recently, Bone-Tempering Pills had been shooting up in market value, fetching prices nearing eight hundred grand. Surprised, he turned to Edward, realization dawning.

“Wow, Edward! This is something else. But I better check with the boss about the price range—give me a moment,” Thomas said before dashing to the back room.

In the small, charming courtyard behind Regal Treasures, the owner, Richard Lewis, practiced Tai Chi in his flowing white robe. The tranquil space, filled with lush plants and a koi pond, exuded a sense of luxury and importance, indicative of the shop's stature.

“What’s got you running in here like a madman?” Richard inquired without breaking his posture.

“Sir, Edward Green is here!”

“Edward Green, one of the Hart family’s in-laws?”

“Exactly!”

Richard cracked a smile. “Well, that’s definitely newsworthy. What’s he peddling?”

“I hear it’s a recipe for a Bone-Tempering Pill, but I couldn’t gauge how much we should offer him.”

After a moment of contemplation, Richard adjusted his stance. “With a going rate in black markets reaching eight hundred grand, let’s do him a solid and offer eight hundred bucks.”

Thomas blinked, disbelief washing over him. “Sir, eight hundred for something worth eight hundred thousand? Do you think he’ll go for that?”

“Relax. It’s a fair price, especially for a bumpkin from Pembrooke Town. He doesn’t know what he’s holding. If we charm him well enough, he might not even ask for our eight hundred,” Richard said with a smirk.

“Alright, I’ll head back now.” With that, Thomas hurried off to relay the news to Edward, bracing himself for the commotion that was sure to unfold.

Chapter 4

My name? Well, that's something you can call me.

Thomas rushed through the lobby, his footsteps echoing against the marble floor, while Richard Lewis remained unhurried, casually observing the scene before him.

It wasn't that Richard regarded the deal with disdain; it was just that he felt someone like Edward Green—a total waste of space—was outside his pay grade. Thomas could easily handle this on his own.

The lobby had turned into a crowded arena, people eager for the spectacle. They were all itching to discover just how much this so-called 'useless son-in-law' of House Hart could be conned out of.

Thomas approached Edward, a mixture of caution and bravado dancing in his eyes.

“Mr. Green, I just had a word with my boss about the Essence of Bone Refinement formula,” he said. “It's not exactly top-tier material. The market rate is around six hundred, but with some persuasion, I've managed to bump it up to eight hundred. How does that sound?”

A murmur rippled through the onlookers as they caught wind of the offer.

“Richard Lewis is really lowballing him, isn’t he? Only eight hundred?”

Edward raised an eyebrow. “That’s a little light, don’t you think?”

“Hey, hold up, Mr. Green,” Thomas said quickly, trying to read the room. “We’re just getting started here. If this price doesn't work for you, let’s talk it through a bit more.”

“I'll give you one last offer,” Edward replied, his voice flat. “Don’t make me repeat myself.”

Thomas frowned, sensing that Edward, for once, just might be harder to sway.

“Look, Mr. Green, you know how it is in this small business. Eight hundred is practically a generous offer! But let’s raise it to a thousand as a gesture of goodwill. What do you think?”

“Fine. You bring the cash; I’ll bring the goods.”

“Great! No problem!”

Moments later, Thomas flashed ten crisp hundred-dollar bills at Edward. “Mr. Green, here's the grand total. We can exchange now, can’t we?”

However, Edward leaned back, propping his chin on one hand, an enigmatic smile playing on his lips. “I meant ten million. You giving me a grand for this? What is that supposed to mean?”

A collective gasp echoed through the crowd.

What just happened? Did he really say ten million?

“Edward, come on now. We’re looking at a thousand bucks here, which is already way over what it’s worth! Are you dreaming?”

With a swift motion, Edward slammed his teacup down on the table, sending it crashing into Thomas's face.

“My name? Is that something you think you can just call as you please?”

Thomas stood there, stunned. He thought Edward was just a cowardly step-in son, someone to be pushed around without any repercussions. Who would have thought he’d have the audacity to strike back?

As the commotion drew Richard out from the garden, his face instantly darkened at the sight of his employee being taken down.

“Edward, what’s this? A little dirt bag and a lot of talk? That’s one thing, but punching someone? Not okay.”

“Just a disobedient mutt. You think I care if I bash his head in? What are you going to do about it?” Edward retorted, his eyes cold, sending a shiver through Richard’s spine. Richard’s attitude softened just a fraction, though his authority was still palpable.

“Mr. Green, Thomas here doesn't know his place. I’m the owner of Regal Treasures. Let’s talk it out.”

Business is all about diplomacy, Richard thought, choosing not to escalate the situation.

“Fine.”

“The Essence of Bone Refinement is valuable,” he continued. “But I need to verify its authenticity first. If it's real, I can pay ten million. If not, well… we’re done here.”

“Sounds reasonable.”

Edward confidently tossed the formula across the table without a second thought.

The crowd erupted in noise.

“That’s a wrap.”

“Richard Lewis has made a name for himself on Scholar’s Avenue simply because he never forgets a thing he sees. Once he takes a look, it’s just a matter of seconds before he remembers it all. He could get that formula for free.”

“Old dog, new tricks, huh? Edward doesn’t hold a candle to him.”

As everyone speculated, Richard took a mere half a minute to glance at the handwritten formula before returning it to Edward.

“Edward, sure you’re the son-in-law of House Hart,” Richard said smirking. “But taking me for a ride with fake material? Come on, man.”

“You claim the formula is fake?”

“Exactly.”

Richard’s confidence surged, a smug smile on his face. He had memorized the entire formula, scored it all without spending a dime. Thinking of that made him feel warm and fuzzy.

Edward sipped his tea, calm and collected. “You best not play tricks in front of me, otherwise things are gonna get worse for you.”

The atmosphere in Regal Treasures grew tense.

Everyone knew Richard’s reputation; he was the epitome of a man who didn’t shy away from showing who was boss. To outsiders, he looked polished, but behind closed doors, he had a ruthless nickname: Richard the Dog.

When he was pushed, he snapped, and today might just be Edward’s unlucky day.

Thomas, realizing the waning dominance of his boss, sprang to his feet, pointing accusingly at Edward.

“Edward, my boss is giving you respect. He even addressed you as Mr. Green, which, trust me, says a lot, considering you're just a leech.”

He continued. “You’re fresh here, just six months in, and now you think you can storm into Regal Treasures and take control? Real mistake!”

“Clueless fool.”

With a flick of his wrist, Edward moved like lightning and seized Thomas's arm, twisting it with a jolt that sent a scream through the crowd.

The sound was bone-chilling and made everyone freeze in place.

Richard’s eyes widened; this was not the Edward he knew. He had always appeared meek and mild, but now?

“Well, they say if you’re gonna mess with a dog, you better check who’s holding the leash. Anyone who attacks in front of me can expect repercussions.”

Richard flared his nostrils like an offended bull.

“If you don’t back down, I’ll just take you down too.”

“Let’s see you try.”

Richard surged forward, not hesitating for a moment.

“Oh man, this is going to be bad for Edward.”

“Richard’s not someone to take lightly. He once cleaned up Khan when he was collecting debts on Scholar’s Avenue. Taking down Edward will be a breeze.”

“Just a pathetic son-in-law, strutting around Regal Treasures like he owns the place. This really isn’t smart.”

Richard approached, his face a mask of cold confidence, seeing Edward as nothing more than a worm to squash.

But the unthinkable happened.

Edward’s palm collided with Richard's face, sending him sprawling through the air like a rag doll.

“No way. Did he just knock Richard Lewis down?”

The crowd gasped, unable to process what they had just witnessed.

Richard crumpled to the ground, hand pressed to his cheek, utterly dazed.

“Mr. Green, don’t be upset. I get it now. The formula? We’ll pay you ten million!” Richard said, his voice shaky and small.

“Now you see reason.”

“Y-yeah, I see it.” Richard's face turned pale. "I swear, from now on, I won’t step out of line in front of Mr. Green again."

“Then let’s settle this. Cash up, and we’ll call it even.”

“Absolutely.”

Richard practically stumbled to the bar, fumbling as he pulled out a check for ten million, along with a small ornate box.

“This is just for you, Mr. Green. Please, it’s a token of my appreciation.”

As he opened the box, Edward's eyebrows raised. Inside lay a Buddha amulet, something he vaguely remembered seeing during his trips to Scholar's Avenue. It was rumored to be worth millions, a prized possession of Regal Treasures.

“Didn’t expect you’d part with this,” Edward said, surprised.

“I urge you, don’t take it the wrong way,” Richard insisted. “This is truly just a gift—think of it as a chance to become friends. Absolutely no strings attached.”

Before Edward could respond, Richard shoved the box into his hands, leaving him with no alternative but to accept.

Feeling resigned, Edward slipped the amulet into his pocket.

Finally bursting out of Regal Treasures, Edward glanced at his watch. He still had time before his dinner meeting, so he hailed a cab straight to Dragoncrest Estates, determined to wrap up matters regarding his new place.

In Brightford, Dragoncrest Estates wasn’t the swankiest location, but it was undeniably the most picturesque, featuring natural vistas that connected occupants to the outdoors.

Edward wasn't a picky guy—he didn’t have high demands. But this property had its reasons, one being its ability to harness positive energy—a game changer for his future plans.

Chapter 5

**Unexpected Encounter**

The Dragon Mountain Villa sales center was a spectacle of luxury, its grandeur a gateway to the exclusivity that lay beyond.

Edward Green stepped out of his car and made a quick detour to the nearby bank, ensuring his check was deposited into his bank account before heading to the sales center.

As he entered, he was greeted by a chorus of chatter from a group of real estate agents, animatedly gossiping. The center buzzed with potential homeowners, not just for Dragon Mountain but several other developments.

“Sir, here to look at properties?” a young saleswoman asked, her voice bright, cutting through the din.

Edward nodded slightly, acknowledging her inquiry.

“What kind of home are you interested in? We’ve got many recently launched units, including some cozy options around forty square meters. Any interest?”

“Not really. I’m here for the Dragon Mountain Villas.”

An instant hush fell over the room. Heads turned toward Edward, their initial warmth replaced by skepticism.

Just because a guy looked good didn’t mean he had the cash to back it up, they must have thought.

“Lily, you handle this one,” one of the older saleswomen instructed, pushing the newcomer in Edward's direction.

“Evelyn, I just started my internship today,” Lily Young stuttered, her simple uniform and black tights marking her as the ideal intern rather than a seasoned sales agent.

“It’s fine. Just manage it; you can earn commission on any sale,” Evelyn Clarke shot back. “Besides, even if you’re learning, those earnings are still money in your pocket.”

“Right, right! Don’t let this big fish slip away!” the other agents teased, nudging her toward Edward.

With a hesitant smile, Lily adjusted her glasses and approached Edward. “Hello, sir! I’m Lily Young, and I’d love to share details about the Dragon Mountain Villas…”

“Skip the fluff. Just tell me how many units are left,” Edward replied, his tone brisk and focused.

“Uh, just a moment,” she hesitated, quickly flipping through papers. “Currently, there’s only the mountaintop villa available.”

Edward perked up at that.

To most buyers, the top of the mountain was undesirable; the halfway down and base locations were much more sought after. What they didn’t realize was that the mountaintop house was as close to the core of its energy as one could get.

“How much is it?”

“Standard price is $9.8 million, but with only this one left, we’re giving a 5% discount, so it’s $9.31 million.”

“Ready to move in?”

“Yep, if there are no special requirements for furnishings, the villa is already decorated.”

Edward looked at Lily, then pulled out his freshly minted bank card. “Let’s get it done. Password’s 000000. And can we hurry? I’ve got places to be.”

A stunned silence blanketed the sales area, the banter from before stilled into disbelief as the other agents processed his purchase.

Had he really just bought a villa?

At a 5% commission, Lily could stand to make at least $500,000 from this sale—money that could have easily been hers.

“This gentleman is a priority, so I’ll step in to assist with the remaining paperwork,” Evelyn said, sauntering over with a deliberate exaggeration of her curves, her intentions clear as day.

“No thanks. I prefer Lily’s help,” Edward said, keeping his gaze steady on the young intern while ignoring Evelyn.

With a displeased huff, Evelyn retreated, her expression a blend of frustration and regret.

Lily shot Edward a grateful look, grateful he hadn’t let the more experienced woman swoop in. While she was just here for a side hustle, she’d managed to wrap up the complexities of the deal in under thirty minutes, her diligence on full display.

“Edward, here’s the property papers and your key; please ensure you keep them safe.”

“Got it.”

As he turned to leave, another pair entered the center—two individuals who immediately caught his attention.

The woman in front wore a simple yet elegant outfit: a sheer white blouse and fitted black jeans that showcased her figure. However, while she had a certain allure, it didn’t quite compare to Isabella Hart’s striking grace.

Behind her stood a tall, well-built man in a tailored suit, his posture straight—military, perhaps?

Evelyn was quick to intercept them, her sales instincts piqued. “Hi there! I'm Evelyn Clarke, and I’d be happy to show you around the available listings. We have some fantastic new Uptown Townhomes and luxury models just hit the market!”

The woman’s eyes gleamed with intent as she cut in, “Is the mountaintop villa still available? I’m keen on purchasing it.”

Evelyn’s face dropped slightly; it was a bit too coincidental. “I’m sorry. The villa was just sold—he,” she gestured at Edward, “bought it mere moments ago.”

The newcomer’s eyes flicked to Edward, recognition dawning. He raised an eyebrow, intrigued; clearly, she had her own motives for being here.

“So there are other interested buyers,” he thought, smiling faintly, realizing Brightford still had its share of savvy individuals.

With a final glance at the sales center, Edward made his exit.

“Are there any other properties closer to the mountain?” the woman inquired, her voice now tinged with disappointment.

“Unfortunately, the mountaintop villa was the last one available,” Evelyn confirmed.

“Guess we’ll have to catch up with him. He might still be nearby,” she said decisively, already steering her companion towards the door.

“Let’s go.”

Ideal in their pursuit, the duo jogged out just in time to catch sight of Edward not too far away.

“Hey, sir! Wait up!”

Hearing the call, Edward turned around to find the woman approaching him, her pace controlled with an air of confidence.

“Yes?” he asked, curiosity piqued.

“Let me introduce myself. I’m Grace Quinn. This is my driver, Oliver Zhao. We’re interested in the villa you just snatched up. We’d love to discuss options—let’s say you reconsider your purchase?”

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