Deceitful Desire

Chapter 1

I took off my Cartier Paris shades, which I bought yesterday, and handed them to my assistant. We were walking inside the mall to visit my shop here. I sell jewelry and branded watches for my business. I manage one of the branches of our business for the same brand.

But lately, Dad has been happy for an unknown reason. I heard that someone made a significant investment in our company.

If investors put in, let's say, 20% of our company's current value, our capital would go up significantly. Our company is valued around 300 million for instance, a 20% investment would mean an extra 60 million.

With this added money, we could maybe branch out into new markets. Starting a new branch in a big city typically costs about 6 million, including rent, upgrades, inventory, and initial operating costs. So, with 60 million, we could realistically open around 10 new branches.

“But we also have to think about the return on investment. If the new branch generates an average income of 3 million every year, it will take two years to recover the investment for each branch. After that, it's all profit.

Expanding this way won’t just increase our income but also boost our brand’s visibility and market share. It would be wise to open branches in key cities where there’s a high demand for luxury products. This will ensure that our new branches start with a strong customer base, giving them a better chance of success.

In short, a major investment like this could transform our business, providing the funds needed to grow and solidify our position in the market.

Too much information? I might look like a party girl, but I know what I studied. Of course, it's part of my goals.

I studied business because even though I’m the youngest, I still have a chance to become the next successor. My two older siblings already have their own established careers, and I know they don’t want to handle the family business.

After graduating from college, I immediately worked in Dad’s company, but even so, I could sense that he didn’t trust me at all, even though he put me in charge of one of the branches.

I know why he didn’t trust me. It’s because of my addiction to spending money to the maximum. I can’t help it. Even though I know it’s bad, I can’t resist buying the things I want. Maybe that’s why no one expected me to study business.

I’m controlling myself, okay? If before, I used to spend 10 million every month, now I’ve reduced it to 5 million just for shopping.

I enjoy the thrill of purchasing new items—the feel of a luxurious handbag, the gleam of designer shoes, and the elegance of branded clothing. It makes me feel alive, and honestly, it’s hard to resist.

The allure of the latest collections from Paris or Milan and the satisfaction of owning something exclusive—it’s addictive.

Whenever I step into a luxury boutique, I find myself giving in to temptation. My wardrobe is like a showcase of top-tier brands, and my jewelry box is overflowing with pieces that shine brighter than my future. It’s not just about possessing these items; it’s about the excitement of acquiring them.

Even now, while managing one of our branches, I try to incorporate my love for luxury into my work. I attend fashion shows and exclusive events hosted by well-known brands under the guise of networking for our business.

It’s a win-win: I satisfy my passion while also bringing new brands and products to our company. Sometimes, when other owners like our services, they ask for collaboration, all thanks to me, of course!

I know I have to prove myself to Dad. I have to show him that I can be responsible and handle the business despite my spending habits. And I’m trying. I really am. But sometimes, the temptation is just too great.

In the end, I know I need to find balance. I have to show Dad that I can expand the business while still enjoying the lifestyle I cherish. When I eventually take over as the successor, I’ll have the freedom to do both. Until then, I’ll control my spending enough to maintain Dad’s trust and prove that I’m the rightful successor to our business. But once I’m in control, I won’t hold back. I’ll indulge in every shopping desire I have. That’s my goal, after all.

Even if I spend millions, I know I can still earn it back. I know what I’m doing.

Cunning, right? But I’m enjoying it. Although, these past months, I haven't been able to fully fulfill my role in the family because of a pest.

“Ma’am, your sister-in-law has been waiting for a while,” said Alora, one of my staff, as we entered. She followed behind me since I didn’t stop to greet everyone. My time is too valuable, but that woman? She’s the epitome of everything I despise. She has an innocent face like she hasn’t done anything wrong, but she’s a sly flirt.

Every time she’s around, I feel my blood pressure rise. She acts like she’s doing us a favor by gracing us with her presence, but all she does is add to my stress. Why is she even here now? The thought of spending even a minute with her makes me want to turn around and walk right back out.

A few steps from the door, I spotted Colette sitting there comfortably, as if she had done nothing wrong.

I rolled my eyes in annoyance. I will never accept her as part of my family! Why did my brother even take her back after everything that’s happened?

Holding back my irritation, I walked toward the lobby, and there she was, waiting. I crossed my arms as I approached her. “What are you doing here, slut?” I spat out.

Her cheeks turned red with embarrassment as she heard my words. People around us, including customers and staff, started whispering. A sly smile crept onto my face as I watched the reactions.

I’m not the type of person to hold back. I don’t care if they’re embarrassed by what I say. I’m not nice to people who think they’re superior, especially flirts like her.

“What?” I snapped. “Feeling like a saint again? After what you’ve done to me? What did my brother King even see in you?” I got closer and jabbed her forehead with my finger. “Look at yourself—still a slut.”

She just lowered her head, my voice loud enough that everyone was staring. I raised my eyebrows at the staff because the last thing I wanted was gossipers.

They quickly moved the customers away. I was about to leave when Colette spoke up, making me stop in my tracks.

“I... I’m sorry...”

My blood boiled even more. I will never accept her apology, even if she crawled on the ground! Flirts like her ruined my relationship, destroyed the eight years I had with Davin!

Tears of rage welled up in my eyes. Even though months have passed since it happened, the weight in my heart remains. I know I haven’t fully moved on. I can’t just let go because they ruined me.

I quickly wiped away the tear that rolled down my cheek, refusing to look at her. If I did, I might lose control and do something we’d both regret.

I headed into my office. Taking a deep breath, I felt some relief being alone—alone again. I had left my old friends behind when I dedicated myself to improving for those eight years, ever since I decided to change for Davin. I wasn’t lonely when he was around.

My phone rang. I wiped away my tears again and picked it up. Dad was calling. I straightened my voice so he wouldn’t catch on, though even if he did, he wouldn’t care.

“Dad,” I greeted as I sat in my swivel chair and placed my Hermès Himalaya Kelly bag beside me.