Chapter 60 Exclusive Release Chapter 60 "My Seat at Night..."
Richard pulled up another report and projected it on the screen: “We traced the registration information of ‘Explorer.’ It’s registered in the Cayman Islands, with a very complex, multi-layered shareholding structure, and the ultimate beneficiaries are deeply hidden. But recent fund flows show that it is closely linked to an offshore trust codenamed ‘Phoenix.’”
On the screen, a red dotted line starts from "Phoenix Trust," passes through layers of shell companies, and finally disappears into an anonymous account of a private bank in Zurich.
“Phoeni?” Elias repeated the name, which had a strange sense of familiarity.
Three years ago, when Percival was involved in the restructuring of a luxury goods group, he had a brief encounter with a fund called "Phoenix Rising".
“Check all of this trust’s publicly disclosed investment records for the past five years, especially projects in the intersection of culture, fashion, and technology.”
"Boss, you suspect..."
"In addition, check Feitian Capital... no, check Meng Yuanning personally, and whether her mother, Ms. Qiao Yiya, has any offshore trust or fund structures."
"Boss, if Phoenix is connected to Miss Wynne, does that mean she breached her contract during the five-year term?"
According to the agreement, Elias invested in her as a whole over the past five years, so any profits generated by her would belong to him in part.
Elias leaned back in his chair, his eyes narrowing slightly. "I just think that if it really is her, then I've seriously underestimated her. What if she's been operating within the rules on the surface all along?"
“In other words,” Elias said, his voice calm and devoid of emotion, “while I set up a trust for her and provided her with unlimited support, she used a small portion of it—a legal and compliant portion—as seed funding to set up a completely independent capital vehicle that could potentially challenge me in the future.”
"Yes, boss, should we continue the investigation? If we find concrete evidence, you can file a lawsuit against Ms. Wynne."
"Continue the investigation?" Elias's lips curled into a not-so-friendly smile. "I don't think she'll leave any evidence."
Richard, however, thought differently. He lowered his head and said meaningfully, "What Miss Wynne has taken advantage of most has never been legal loopholes, but your leniency, my boss. And now, just as she expected, you've let her off this time."
Elias fell into deep thought. He wasn't thinking about Richard's words; he was wondering who was the person behind Wynne's offshore fund operations.
Wynne was certainly a very smart girl, but Elias knew her well; she was bad at math and couldn't build such an intricate structure as Phoenix on her own.
It probably wasn't her mother, Qiao Yiya; that beautiful and delicate woman couldn't possibly have accomplished all of this. And Yuan Ning's entire social circle in New York City was under his watchful eye.
It couldn't be Eleanor and Justin Thorne, nor could it be Prince Esposito, who has been growing grapes in Italy for the past two years.
Elias thought of someone. Perhaps it was Wynne's stepfather, Jiang Jianzhou.
But he didn't expect that the two of them could establish such a close and trusting relationship so quickly.
Was it solely because of his marriage to her mother?
No, no, Elias felt he had overlooked something. Wynne wasn't the type to trust her stepfather simply because of their marriage.
"So, should we continue the investigation, boss?" Richard asked.
Elias looked up at him, then suddenly changed the subject: "How's the Orlando itinerary I asked you to arrange coming along?"
Richard paused for a moment, but immediately switched modes.
He pulled up another pre-arranged itinerary on the screen, and the fund flow chart and corporate structure on the projection screen disappeared instantly.
"Everything is ready, boss."
"The Royal Villa Suite at the Grand Floridian Resort in Walt Disney World, Orlando, has been reserved for you for two nights."
"Regarding the itinerary," Richard switched pages to display a schedule, "I've already booked the highest level of Disney private guided tour service. A dedicated guide, driver, and security team of six will accompany you throughout the trip. There will also be private tea parties with classic characters, including Mickey, Minnie, and a princess, which Ms. Wynne can choose on the day, as well as access to specific attractions during off-peak hours."
Elias placed his hand on the armrest and tapped it lightly, a small gesture that indicated his satisfaction and pleasant mood: "I remember she said she liked Mickey Mouse, and you had Mickey Mouse on standby to accompany her the whole day."
Richard looked slightly embarrassed, then switched to a professional expression: "Yes, boss."
Disney doesn't offer this service, but if you pay enough, who knows?
“Finally,” Richard closed his tablet, his tone more relaxed, “in accordance with your request not to book the entire park, and given that there will definitely be a large number of visitors that day, to ensure your and Ms. Wynne’s safety and experience, the guided tour team will monitor the flow of people in real time to ensure that your itinerary avoids crowds as much as possible. Of course, any queues that may occur will be handled by a guide who will take you directly through the fast lane.”
“Very good.” Elias said only these two words in the end. He stood up, straightened his suit cuffs, and moved with elegant composure. “Execute it as is. Confirm all the details with me one last time before departure.”
"Yes, boss."
On the day of departure, the sky over New York was an unusually clear and azure blue, and the sunlight generously shone on the glass curtain wall of the Tetporo private terminal, reflecting a halo of sparkling diamonds.
Yuan Ning practically jogged through the private passage. Today she wore a light pink cashmere cardigan, paired with a simple white cotton dress and flat ballet flats.
She was carrying only a small Dior Book Tote, which probably contained only a few essential travel items: her passport, wallet, makeup supplies, and a thin amusement park guide with Mickey Mouse ears on the cover. A Mickey Mouse doll was also hanging from the bag.
It's clear she's really looking forward to this trip.
Elias trailed a few steps behind her, wearing a soft, off-white V-neck shirt, paired with beige linen trousers, and a pair of tortoiseshell-rimmed sunglasses.
"Elijas, hurry up!" Yuan Ning turned around at the boarding gate and waved to him.
"Here you are." He quickened his pace and handed the documents to Richard behind him.
The Gulfstream G650's cabin door slowly closed, and the aircraft began a steady climb, entering the clouds.
Yuan Ning lay back in the soft sofa, flipping through a guidebook to the amusement park.
Disney World in Orlando has four themed lands. Her gaze swept over the brochures introducing the Magic Kingdom and Tomorrowland, and the corners of her mouth unconsciously curved into a smile.
"What are you looking at so happily?" Elias sat down opposite her, holding a glass of water, his expression unusually relaxed.
“I’m doing research!” Yuan Ning turned the guide to him and traced lines on it with her finger. “Look, you have to go to the Kilimanjaro Grassland Adventure in Animal Kingdom early in the morning, I heard the animals are most active then. MGM’s ‘Tower of Terror’ and ‘Rolling Roller Coaster’ are said to be super thrilling… Oh, and there’s also the ‘Test Track’ in Future World, it just opened the year before last, it’s really fast!”
Elias watched her beaming face, as if he had truly forgotten what happened in New York City.
"Sure, just tell our tour guide Casey your requirements after you land."
As the plane landed in Orlando, the warm, humid tropical air hit us.
A Bentley was already waiting quietly beside the gangway.
The driver was a middle-aged man with a cheerful smile, while standing next to him was a smart and capable woman in her thirties, wearing a polo shirt and khaki pants. She was their private guide, Ms. Kathy.
“Mr. Van der Berg, Ms. Meng, welcome to Orlando!” Casey stepped forward, her voice quick and her smile sincere. “I’m Casey, and I’ll be at your service for the next two days. It’s about a forty-minute drive to the Grand Floridian Resort. The rooms are ready, so you can rest a bit, or, if you’re feeling energetic, we can begin our wonderful journey today!”
Her enthusiasm was infectious. Yuan Ning immediately returned a bright smile: "Hi Casey! I'm ready, let's go have some fun!"
He turned to look at Elias, who looked helpless: "Why don't you go back and rest for a bit, and start tomorrow?"
Yuan Ning shook her head: "No, I want to play now."
Elias looked into her bright eyes and could only nod, "Alright then."
The car drove smoothly toward Disney World. The scenery along the way was typical of the tropics, with palm trees swaying and brightly colored buildings flashing past the windows.
Yuan Ning was practically pressed against the car window.
Elias pulled her into his arms: "Is it that new to you? What haven't you seen before?"
Yuan Ning glanced at him and said, "What do you know, you old fogey?"
She struggled to get up, and Elias's expression changed. His jaw tightened, and he held her tightly: "What did you say?"
His voice was very low, each word sounding as if it had been polished between his teeth.
Yuan Ning, nestled in his arms, tilted her head back, blinked, and repeated:
“I say, Elias van der Berg, as everyone knows, you are an old-fashioned, conservative man.”
He slowly, very slowly, lowered his head, his warm breath almost brushing against her eyelashes. They were so close that she could see her small, stubborn reflection in his eyes.
“Very good,” he said, his voice lower and hoarse, “it seems my kitten is quite naughty today.”
His thumb, very slowly and with a grinding motion, stroked her soft lower lip.
Yuan Ning didn't hold back either, snuggling into his arms and slipping half her hand inside his V-neck shirt, her eyes full of provocation.
Elias's breathing became heavier.
He still looked perfectly serious. He pushed her away, and she left, leaving only half of her hand hanging on his collar.
She pouted at him: "You old fogey who can't take a joke."
His expression changed, and she pinched his chest a few times before pulling her hand away.
Elias turned and glared at her. Yuan Ning had already lay back down, leaning against the car window, her gaze still fixed on the rushing scenery outside, her lips occasionally forming an "O" shape.
"Wow--"
Elias was secretly annoyed, put his sunglasses back on, and looked out the window.
Sitting in the passenger seat, Casey began her expert introduction as the journey drew nearer:
"Considering it's our first day, I suggest we start with Future World. This park combines a futuristic feel with an international vibe, and the attractions are less childish, making it more suitable for the two of you. We can start with the most thrilling 'Test Track,' and then head to the 'Space Mission' to experience weightlessness simulation. Lunch can be had in the 'Window of the World' area, which offers cuisine from eleven countries, ranging from French crêpes to Japanese sushi..."
Yuan Ning listened attentively, making marks in the guidebook and occasionally exchanging a few words with Casey; the atmosphere was relaxed and pleasant. Elias, on the other hand, leaned back in the back seat, remaining silent.
"Okay, okay, let's play like that!"
Casey turned to the other man: "Mr. Van der Berg, what do you think?"
Elias took off his sunglasses, paused for two seconds, and said, "I'll do whatever she says."
As the car entered the vast resort area of Disney World, as statues of Disney characters and bushes trimmed into the shape of Mickey Mouse began to appear on both sides of the road, and as the iconic silver-white "Spaceship Earth" slowly came into view in the distance, a magical atmosphere began to permeate the air.
This place is like a fairy tale world completely detached from reality, with the smell of frosting and popcorn floating in the air.
The ubiquitous cheerful music acts like background radiation, forcefully invading every soul that steps into this place.
Compared to Yuan Ning's excitement, Elias seemed even more out of place.
He remained silent and put his sunglasses back on his nose.
For a moment, I seemed to regret agreeing to her suggestion.
As soon as Yuan Ning arrived, her eyes brightened noticeably. She slung her handbag across her body and started skipping as she walked.
Elias may not have been unmoved, but he observed it all with a more cautious, almost research-like attitude.
Observe this massive, meticulously designed machine that aims to mass-produce happiness, and also observe the girl next to you who seems to have been successfully captured by this machine.
Casey's voice rang out at the right moment: "The suite is ready. You two can go back to your room and rest for a while. I will be waiting for you downstairs in thirty minutes."
Casey escorted them to the main building's elevator entrance, then stopped gracefully and smiled, saying, "The elevator goes directly to the exclusive floor of the Royal Villa on the top floor. The access card has been activated. Have a pleasant stay, and we'll see you in thirty minutes."
The elevator doors slid open silently to the sides, revealing a spacious interior covered with an intricate floral carpet matching the hotel lobby, and brass decorations adorning the walls, creating a classic and intimate atmosphere.
Yuan Ning hummed a song and stepped inside first, followed by Elias.
The elevator doors closed, shutting out Casey's warm smile from the outside noise.
Yuan Ning leaned against the gleaming elevator wall, took out a lip balm from her small handbag, and slowly applied it to the wall.
A delicate pink hue clung to her lips, and she seemed completely absorbed in this small gesture, as if the much taller figure beside her didn't exist.
“Mr. Van der Berg, you look like the kind of person who should live in a castle, review documents with a quill pen every day, and have to change into a suit before dinner.”
“Am I not?” Elias slowly turned his head, his icy blue eyes meeting her smiling black eyes. “Should I be laughing like an idiot here like those childish fools?”
Yuan Ning stared at him with her round, dark eyes. Elias suddenly moved closer to her and leaned down.
Yuan Ning's smile remained, but her eyes became even more provocative: "So, you were forced to come here?"
“Although this world full of people dressed as cartoon characters doesn’t mean much to me, I’d be happy to keep you company, Miss Wynne.”
Elias was certain that if it weren't for those things that suddenly popped into his mind and wouldn't go away, he could be pretending to be a fool and laughing with her right now.
Yuan Ning's smile vanished, and she glared at him: "You're not allowed to say Mickey Mouse is a person dressed as a cartoon character! He's my Mickey Mouse! My favorite little baby!"
As soon as the words were spoken, a soft "ding" sounded, and the elevator came to a smooth stop.
We've reached the top floor.
"snort!"
Yuan Ning stepped out of the elevator first. Outside was a quieter corridor with a thick carpet, leading to a single heavy double wooden door.
Elias watched her retreating figure and shook his head helplessly.
Yuan Ning took out the access card that Casey had given her from her bag, and with a "beep", the door lock opened.
Then, light and a sense of space follow.
The window faces the unobstructed Cinderella Castle, the magical kingdom.
Yuan Ning stood at the door, completely stunned.
He still held the access card in his hand, his lips slightly parted, and his dark eyes, which had been staring wide-eyed at Elias in the elevator just moments before, were now even wider open.
"OMG."
Elias followed behind, entered the room, and gently closed the door behind him. His eyes quickly scanned the entire space to ensure privacy and security.
Finally, his gaze fell on the window. He walked over, but didn't get too close, stopping two steps behind her.
"Good view." This was his usual flat tone, but even he felt it sounded a bit too dry after he said it.
However, Yuan Ning didn't seem to mind.
She suddenly turned to look at him: "Elijas, how did you know I would like a room like this?"
Her eyes shone brightly, and her cheeks flushed with excitement.
"This is magic! This is a dream! This is..." She couldn't find more exaggerated words for a moment, so she simply stretched out her arm and drew a big circle, "This is the best room in the world!"
Elias was taken aback, momentarily caught up in her excitement: "Ah...is that so?"
"Of course!" She hopped forward two steps, then suddenly jumped onto him, wrapping her legs around his waist. "I have to give you a big kiss!"
"mua~"
She gave him a big kiss on the cheek, making a loud "pop".
Elias, bearing her weight, had to support her hips with both arms.
He was stunned by the kiss.
"And the left side too."
She cupped his face in her hands and kissed him on the cheek.
Yuan Ning seemed to have a switch turned on for happiness. She leaned back slightly, cupped his face in her hands, and then showered him with kisses.
Forehead. "Mua!"
Tip of the nose. "Pop!"
Chin. "Chirp!"
Even his slightly bobbing Adam's apple received a heavy blow.
Elias, I like you so much.
“Wynne…” he finally found his voice and said with some grievance, “You just hated me.”
"Hmm?" She kissed the corner of his mouth again before pausing slightly, her arms still wrapped around his neck, clinging to him as she looked down at him. Her eyes were incredibly bright, reflecting his somewhat dazed, excessively handsome face.
"What's wrong? You hated it just now, but you like it now? Is that not allowed?"
She asked as if it were perfectly natural.
Elias looked at her face so close to his, and at that moment, her dark eyes seemed to hold no trace of scheming.
His Adam's apple bobbed again, and the arm supporting her hips unconsciously tightened a little.
"So how much do you like me?"
"I love it so much!"
In the end, he just sighed very softly, a sigh that contained too much helpless tenderness.
"Please continue to like me, Wynne."
If you've always liked me, I'll give you anything.
"Hmm...that depends on your performance."
She ran her fingers through the blond hair at the back of his neck, where it had grown a little longer than before.
He usually made sure his hair was neatly trimmed. Not long ago, Yuan Ning saw the wolf tail hairstyle that had suddenly become popular in a fashion magazine and told him to keep it too. Elias initially disagreed, but when he went to see the barber, he still asked him to keep the hair at the nape of his neck.
Her remaining hair curled naturally at the collar of her shirt, making her look even more elegant and wild.
"How do you expect me to behave?" he finally asked, his voice regaining its composure, a restrained tone carrying a hint of undercurrents.
Upon hearing this, Yuan Ning slipped her fingers inside his V-neck again, circling them: "Be my mount tonight."
Half an hour later, the two came out of the elevator hand in hand right on time.
Casey was taken aback for a moment. Just moments ago, the two of them had been at odds, like they were having a cold war. How could they have become so sweet after only half an hour in the room?
For some unknown reason, Casey's gaze lingered for a moment on Elias's beautifully sculpted buttocks and abs, and she gasped.
Mr. Van der Berg looks so strong and robust, yet he only lasted half an hour?
This battery life is seriously inconsistent with its appearance!
Looking at Ms. Wynne's radiant face and sweet smile, is she really that easily satisfied?
"Casey, what are you looking at?"
Casey snapped out of her daze: "It's nothing, let's hurry up and go to the first activity. I've already arranged the sightseeing bus."
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