He rushed down the stairs with a towel wrapped around his waist.

Without hesitation, he pulled Sabrina away from his brother.

"Kindly stay away from her," Finn said sharply.

Miller merely raised an eyebrow.

The brothers exchanged a brief look.

One filled with tension, the other completely indifferent. Then Finn turned to Sabrina.

His frown deepened. "Why did you leave so suddenly?"

He reached for her hand, "Come upstairs." He tells her but she instinctively steps back.

The thought of returning to that apartment made her stomach churn.

They had moved far enough away from Miller that he could no longer hear them.

Finn lowered his voice.

"One minute we're celebrating our engagement, and the next you're in my brother's arms?"

There was a hint of jealousy in his tone.

"Why did he have his hands around your waist?"

Sabrina stared at him coldly. The irony was almost laughable.

The same man who was about to become someone else's father was jealous?

The realization filled her with disgust.

"I almost fell," she replied coldly. "He happened to be there. Or would you have preferred he watched me tumble down the stairs and twist my ankle?"

Finn immediately softened.

"Of course not. It's just.."

His gaze drifted to the ring on her finger. He places his hand around her waist, caressing her in ways he knows she likes,

"Tomorrow we're telling my parents the good news. I'd rather you remain completely mine."

Completely his?

The same man who isn't completely hers?

The selfishness of his words nearly made her laugh. Even his touch made her sick to her stomach.

Sabrina clenched her fists. "Don't touch me!" She snapped, yanking his hands off of her. She wanted to throw the truth in his face. She wanted to demand an explanation. Wanted to ask how long he had been lying to her face. But the words wouldn't form. Because the moment she speaks, she knew she would break down. And she would rather die than cry in front of Finn. Or allow his family to pity her.

"Honey.. Did I do something wrong?" Finn asked, genuinely stunned by her sudden outburst.

"I have a headache." Her voice sounded distant even to herself. "I need to go home." Turning away, she slowly continued down the stairs.

"Sabrina."

Finn followed her.

"Honey, you can't just leave like this. What about tomorrow? My grandparents are anticipating the news!"

At that exact moment, a ringtone echoed faintly from upstairs. Finn paused.. It was his phone.

"Sab!" he called again.

His attention shifted toward his room.

The phone kept ringing.

By the time he looked back, Sabrina had already disappeared from sight.

For several seconds, he remained frozen. He didn't stop to think about it, he simply cursed under his breath and hurried upstairs to answer the call.

The following morning, the Guidotti family's penthouse was livelier than usual.

At Lucas Gudotti's request, every member of the family had gathered for breakfast.

The sprawling penthouse overlooked the city skyline through floor-to-ceiling windows. Sunlight stoned in, illuminating the elegant dining hall adorned with crystal chandeliers and expensive artwork.

Servants moved quietly between tables, serving coffee, fresh pastries, and an assortment of breakfast dishes.

Finn watched as his grandparents hugged Miller with a warm smile. Well, he arrived last night and they were yet to get over his presence especially since this is the first time in five years since he came home. Despite being eight hours older than Finn, Miller had always intimidated him with his actions and capabilities. He had taken the huge role of handling the headquarters, making their company the biggest sugar producing company in the world.

He took the company from 0 to a billion in revenue... all these right from a young age. He takes on most things Finn chickens out of. He never ceases the opportunity to impress their parents and grandparents.

Under normal circumstances, he would have already returned to the overseas headquarters. The only reason he was in the country was because their grandfather had personally summoned the entire family.

At the head of the table sat Mr. Lucas himself.

Despite his age, the old man's presence remained commanding.

His sharp eyes swept across his children and grandchildren before finally settling on Finn.

A knowing smile appeared on his face.

"Before I make my announcement," Lucas began, setting down his teacup, "I believe Finn has something he'd like to share first."

Several curious gazes immediately shifted toward Finn.

A few family members chuckled.

Everyone knew of his secret affair with Mr. Banks' daughter, Elvira. They had already guessed what the announcement would be.

Finn forced a smile.

His fingers tightened around his coffee cup. He glanced at his phone and not a single response from Sabrina since last night.

The plan had been simple.

She was supposed to spend the night with him. Then they would announce their engagement before the entire family this morning.

Everything had been arranged perfectly.

For the first time in years, Sabrina had completely ignored him.

A strange uneasiness settled in his chest.

She was more excited about today than him. Something wasn't right.

More importantly, he couldn't make the announcement without her present.

Finn cleared his throat. "I think Grandfather should go first."

Lucas raised an eyebrow, "Why?"

"Mine can wait."

The old man studied him for a moment before nodding slowly. "Very well."

The old man's gaze swept across the table. "I've been thinking about the future of this family's business, and.. I've been working on my will."

Instantly, the room grew quiet.

Everyone knew Lucas never spoke lightly when it came to the future.

Even Miller looked up from his coffee.

"That being said, I've made arrangements about the plantation and the company shares," He announced.

Most family members shifted their gaze between Finn, Miller and their cousins.

Miller might be the president of Gates, but the grandpa was still the chairman who holds significant shares and his decision controls how policies are set.

"Finn, you've been an immaculate executive director in your branch," He said and shifted his gaze to Miller, "And Miller, the work of your hands can't go unnoticed. I must commend you on our recent revenue. First of its kind." His smile faltered a bit, "But there's a problem."

Miller sat up, "If you're talking about the sugar quantity.."

"This is far from business, grandson," He turned to Finn, "We all thought you brought a woman in last night? What's the delay?" He shifted back to Miller, "You too. This family needs a legacy to carry on our name.."

"Grandpa. I spoke with my husband, Joseph. He says he can handle it." Ava, the twins' sister, spoke up.

"My husband too. He's willing, if you give him a try, grandpa."

Miller frowned slightly, "What's this about, grandpa?"

"This is about who gets to inherit my shares and permanently becomes the chairman and President of Gates Sugar Corporation," He revealed, "If your cousin's husband is fit, then so be it. But for either of you to get it, you'll need to get married in less than 30 days." He said dismissively as he dropped his cutleries.

Everyone exchanged a puzzled look except for Finn. He knew this was going to be his grandfather's announcement. What he didn't know was that it was going to be this soon. Which was why he proposed last night.

Damnit. He should have never divorced Sabrina right away. She'd probably still be his wife and the president position would have been his immediately.

Yes, he shouldn't have filed for a divorce but how could he break such news to his grandfather? That he has been in a secret relationship for four years and in order to get into their dream country for vacation they had to get married without his consent or blessings?

If it got out, their family's reputation will be tainted.

Knowing his grandfather, both families could call for divorce before Finn and Sabrina. He knew it was only proper to do it the right way. A proper wedding.

Their grandfather was 85 years old and wanted to finalize this, so there's no conflict if he unfortunately passes.

Slowly, Finn's attention drifted toward the entrance once again. Hoping.

Expecting Sabrina to walk through that door and make him the president of Gates.

As Lucas stood up, Miller's deep voice was heard, "Is this a competition?"

"It's a wake up call for you and your brother."

"You can't do this.. not after everything.. not after all those years of making Gates a success," Miller's cold voice made even his mother go mute. They were used to his icy demeanor, but today was different. He looked almost terrifying, like something important had been snatched from him.

"Then be the first to bring a wife. Erica needs a mother figure. It's been 12 years. Or are you still yet to move on from Bianca?" Lucas' tone was calm and concerning.

"Miller, darling. He's right. We are beginning to worry." Samantha, Miller's mum chimed in.

"Leave my daughter out of this," Miller retorted.

"There you go. For the past 3 years, we've been selecting suitable women for you, but you've been turning it down." Scott, their father added.

"Erica didn't like either of those women," Miller said defensively.

"That little girl of yours has never liked any woman you bring home. She'd have to watch you lose your right," Lucas said and walked away.

Finn and Miller sighed. This ridiculous idea was going to put them in a tight spot. They turned to look at each other. They couldn't read their minds, but they wondered who would get married first.

Finn knew it would be easy for him because Sabrina was the wife figure. She had the brains for their plantation and would easily make him a successful president compared to Elvira who couldn't even tell the difference between brown sugar and regular sugar.

"I'll get married in less than the estimated time!" Miller and Finn chorused.

Everyone turned to them with a puzzled look. Most of them expected Miller to be against this, but could he truly bring himself to lose everything especially to someone as incompetent as Finn?

Scott raised a brow at the two of them, "To whom? we've lost count. Is it Susie? Elvira? Candace? Debbie? Angela? Lisa? Or Erica's mother?" He hated his father's idea especially since the twins had never been on good terms and this might drift them further away from each other but he wouldn't dare question the old man.

"I'll bring her here myself." Miller said.

"Me too." Finn uttered.

"Not a chance," Scott says, dismissing his sons, "Your taste in women is beyond me. I wouldn't let Bianca's incident repeat itself." He handed them each a black note, "Here is a list of my preferred choices. All from reputable families."

"I don't need help finding a wife. My taste in women has improved as far as I'm concerned." Miller said, grabbed his jacket and stormed off.

"Well hurry up or Ava's husband will be sitting on your throne!" Scott yelled but Miller was long gone.

*

The weekend went by in a haze. The sleepless nights had left dark circles beneath Sabrina's eyes, though she had done her best to conceal them with makeup.

She let herself grieve for several days, completely ignoring Finn's calls and text messages.. he wasn't hers to begin with, she was done with the joke of a wedding... and now, work was more important than her emotions.

Sabrina arrived at Smith Holdings later than usual that morning.

Beside her walked her mother, Katherine.

Unlike Sabrina, Katherine appeared to be in high spirit.

She chatted enthusiastically about the engagement announcement she expected to hear soon, completely unaware that her daughter's world had fallen apart less than 72 hours ago.

"Your stepfather was practically glowing when he left this morning," Katherine said with a smile. "I wouldn't be surprised if he already considers Finn his son-in-law."

Sabrina forced a faint smile.

The words felt like salt rubbed into an open wound. She knew she; telling her family before Finn announced it to his family was a mistake.

As they stepped into the company lobby, she noticed the building was unusually lively for a weekday morning.

Executives moved briskly across the marble floor. Receptionists stood straighter than usual.

Several luxury vehicles had just pulled up outside.

One after another.

Men in tailored suits entered through the revolving doors.

Some of them Sabrina recognized immediately.

A chairman from one of their partner firms.

A major shareholder.

People who rarely appeared in person unless something important was happening.

Nobody had informed her about any major event.

Then she spotted Harold, her stepfather walked in first, his suit pressed like he was the one being celebrated. And right behind him, dressed just as sharp and confident, was Vector, her stepbrother.

The confusion on her face deepened, "What is Vector doing here?"

Her mother shifted her gaze to the gathering, "That question would be, why did dad bring him?" She turned to Sabrina, "You didn't know? Today's event was organized so that Vector could build connections and shake the right hands."

Sabrina continued watching, "Connections? He's just my secretary."

"Secretary?" Katherine almost laughed, "You think your dad is letting him work for you just so he could be your secretary? Wake up. He knows you work hard, so he made him your secretary. That way, he'd watch you build this company brick by brick, so when the time comes, Vector doesn't have to build anything. He just has to take it."

Those words felt like a physical blow to Sabrina.

Harold moved through the crowd with a smile on his face, personally introducing Vector to every executive they encountered.

The sight made Sabrina, who watched from a distance almost weak.

Normally, when important guests visited the company, Harold introduced Sabrina.

She was the Vice President.

She handled almost everything. Securely the partnerships and maintaining investor relations.

Yet this morning, she stood on the sidelines like an outsider.

While Vector occupied the center of attention.

Laughter echoed across the lobby.

A gray-haired executive shook Vector's hand.

"Congratulations."

"We're looking forward to working with you."

Vector thanked them with surprising confidence. As though he'd been waiting for this moment all along.

Vector was standing beside Harold, shaking hands and exchanging business cards with people who normally came to see her.

A strange feeling settled in her chest.

Before she could dwell on it, Harold finally noticed her.

His face lit up, "Sabrina!"

Several heads turned towards her as well.

Vectors followed their gaze.

For a split second, his smile stiffened, then it returned. Perfectly composed.

Sabrina walked toward them.

"Dad." She glanced at their business members, then at Vector.

"You're here?" Harold sounded like he didn't expect to see her.

His gaze darted toward his watch.

Then toward the elevators.

Sabrina looked between him and Vector,

"What are we celebrating?"

Before Harold could answer, Vector spoke first.

"My role as your secretary ended today."

"What?" Sabrina's expression changed.

A flicker of satisfaction passed through Vector's eyes.

Harold cleared his throat and placed a hand on his daughter's shoulder.

"Listen carefully," He lowered his voice, "There's a company car waiting outside. I need you to represent Smith Holdings at our Hong Kong branch."

Sabrina's heart sank. "The Hong Kong branch?"

"Immediately."

Sabrina's confusion deepened. Something cold settled in her stomach.

She had just arrived, she hadn't been briefed. Yet Harold was already sending her away. Was her mother right? What were they up to that they desperately needed her out of the country for?

An escort accompanied Sabrina out of the building. Her flight was in less than an hour.

"Once again, you obey your father without questioning his actions," Katherine looked at her with pity, "Vector seems naïve but he's a weasel. You look smart but you're clueless. Wake up. Either be a Sly Fox or be used.." With that, she got into her car and left.

Sabrina stood there for a while, her mother's words burning deep into her skin. A lot is expected from the VP of this company, and her father is a 'yes' man. He almost doesn't take no for an answer. Perhaps Hong Kong will help her forget about her current miserable life.

Just then, she heard a loud noise and her head snapped toward the sound instantly.

A crowd quickly gathered near the far end of the parking lot, fifteen feet away, voices overlapping in confusion and fear.

"Oh my God!"

"Somebody help her!"

"Call an ambulance!"

Without thinking, she ran towards them.

By the time she pushed through the crowd, her chest was burning.

A little girl lay curled on the pavement..No older than 11 or 12. Her entire body trembled violently, her small hands clawed at her chest, her mouth open like she was trying to pull in air that simply wasn't coming.

Everyone kept shouting and panicking, not knowing how to help while the little girl's eyes darted around wildly. Almost desperate as if searching for something.

Sabrina immediately dropped to her knees. Tears streamed down her little cheeks as she opened her mouth and desperately gasped for air. Only a strained wheeze was heard.

The horrible sound that made it look like she was slowly dying.

The child's fingers shook as she pointed weakly toward a small purse lying nearby.

"In.." The girl gasped, the single syllable costing her everything she had. "In... inhal.. inhale.."

"In what?" Sabrina leaned closer, her heart raced seeing the kid fight desperately to be alive.

The girl couldn't answer in words, her terrified eyes locking onto her purse lying a few feet away where it must have dropped when her legs gave out.

Sabrina's gaze followed hers instantly. She lunged for the purse and dumped the contents onto the pavement.

Lip balm. A notebook. Then.. a blue inhaler rolled across the concrete.

Sabrina's eyes widened... how could she never have thought? She was asthmatic! And she was having an attack with no one around her who knew what to do.

Without hesitation, she snatched up the inhaler. "It's okay. I found it." Her voice was shaking now.

The little girl's eyes filled with relief.

Sabrina pressed the inhaler toward the girl's mouth, "Take a breath. That's it. Slowly."

The child desperately pressed the inhaler.

One puff.

Then another.

Then another.

The crowd watched silently, fear evident on their faces.

For one terrifying second, nothing changed. Then her chest rose, just slightly, just enough.

"Call poppa," she rasped, barely audible. "Hurry, call... my daddy-"

And then her eyes rolled back, and she went completely limp in Sabrina's arms.

Her voice cracked as she eased the girl down onto the concrete, "Hey! Wake up... I have your inhaler now.."

In that moment, she looked up at the crowd still frozen around her, every single one of them useless in this moment.

"Where are her parents? Somebody find her parents!"

Just then, the sound of sirens pierced through the parking lot.. an ambulance had arrived.

The crowd immediately parted.

"Make way!"

Several paramedics rushed toward them.

At almost the same time, a group of men dressed in black suits appeared from nowhere, moving through the crowd with alarming speed.

Before Sabrina could react, one of them crouched beside the little girl.

"Miss Erica!"

The panic in his voice caught her attention.

One of them carefully lifted the unconscious child into his arms.

Another immediately cleared a path toward the ambulance.

Everything happened so fast that Sabrina barely had time to process it.

"Her father is here."

Someone whispered nearby.