Chapter 316
Chapter 316:
Aanya was the picture of sophistication. Even in her forties, she exuded a timeless beauty.
Her sharp mind and unrelenting ambition had carried her from a fleeting celebrity career to the role of Leonel’s wife, a position she wielded with precision and charm.
Though Austin’s influence loomed over them like an unshakable shadow, Aanya had cultivated a life of luxury. Surrounded by attentive staff and draped in wealth, she thrived in opulence, unbothered by the power struggles that defined the Barton family.
Tonight, she wore a rose-hued satin slip dress, its delicate fabric hugging her curves in all the right places.
Her flawless skin and youthful glow made her appear far younger than her years, a fact Leonel never failed to admire.
Without hesitation, Leonel took her hand and pulled her into his lap.
Aanya slid her arms around his neck, leaning in close, her lips brushing his ear. “Tell me,” she whispered, her voice a gentle command.
Her warm breath sent a ripple through him, and he couldn’t help but smile. Wrapping his arms around her slim waist, he finally spoke, his tone triumphant. “It worked. The news just came in—Austin was in a car accident. They’re saying his chances of survival are slim p>
Aanya’s eyes sparkled with unrestrained excitement, and she sat up straight, her voice brimming with delight. “Are you serious? That’s wonderful p>
With Austin out of the picture, Leonel was next in line for the Barton Group’s top seat, and she would claim her rightful title as the CEO’s wife. The prestige, the power—it would all be theirs.
“Yes!” Leonel confirmed, his grin widening. “They’ve taken him to the hospital. I’ll go later to confirm everything p>
𝓒𝓱𝓮𝓬𝓮 𝓬𝓱𝓪𝓹𝓉𝓮𝓇𝓈 𝒊𝓷
Leonel was a man of innate suspicion, trusting nothing unless he had seen it with his own eyes. This time was no different—he would need to visit the hospital himself to confirm the truth.
“Good,” Aanya said with a cold smile. “Check carefully if he’s playing any tricks. Austin is not easy to deal with. Remember the time we gave him that highly potent poison? Somehow he still managed to survive. That man is unnervingly lucky p>
Leonel’s expression darkened, his lips curling into a sneer. “Unbelievable. That poison was said to be incurable, except by the mysterious doctor Yancy—if such a person even exists.” His tone dripped with skepticism.
“The world is full of mysteries, Leonel,” Aanya said smoothly, her eyes sharp. “You can’t afford to underestimate anyone, no matter how absurd their survival seems p>
Leonel nodded, acknowledging her point. “You’re right. By the way, when is Reuben coming back?” he asked, referring to his only son, Reuben Barton, who was currently abroad.
“He’ll be back next month,” Aanya replied with a small smile. “He says he wants to help lighten your load p>
“That’s good to hear,” Leonel said, his tone more thoughtful now. “We could use every advantage right now p>
Aanya’s smile deepened. “Yes, honey, go to the hospital. Show some concern for your nephew. Play the part of a dutiful uncle. I’ll be here waiting for your good news p>
Leonel adjusted his jacket and stood, his expression unreadable. “Alright. It’s time I made an appearance. The media will expect nothing less p>
He knew the importance of maintaining the facade. In front of the cameras and the public, he had to be the picture of concern— a caring uncle worried about his nephew’s condition. But behind the scenes, Leonel’s motives were far from altruistic.
The prestigious hospital was abuzz with activity, the air thick with urgency. Medical staff rushed in and out, each person moving with purpose. The accident involving Austin, the most influential heir in Kheley, had sent shockwaves through the city, and the hospital’s top specialists were now working tirelessly to save him. John and Yelena stood outside the operating room, their faces etched with worry.
Just then, Leonel arrived, his disheveled appearance drawing a few glances. In his haste, he had even put his shirt on backward. Spotting John, Leonel hurried over, his face contorted in what looked like genuine concern.