Crooked Strategies

Astra's attention shifted to Alexander, who discreetly observed her from a corner before returning her focus to Cole.

The way the tiniest change could transform the timeline amazed her.

In the original timeline, she took the elevator, leading to her being trapped with the idiot twins.

During that ordeal, Cole stayed eerily silent while Lucian threatened never to mistreat Violet again, resulting in the forceful removal and destruction of her necklace.

The entire week, Astra worried the necklace wouldn't be repaired in time, only to face the twins' malevolent intentions of ruining it on her way to her own party.

As if the situation wasn't dire enough, Lucian's attraction to her became apparent, attempting to seduce her after destroying her last familial heirloom.

Swiftly, as the elevator doors opened, Astra fled, her tears showing her emotional turmoil.

Hence, this time, she wisely opted for the stairs. While she was talking to Silas, the idiot twins had plotted an alternative form of revenge.

Most astonishingly, contrary to their usual dynamic, where Lucian took the lead, Cole came up with the new strategy. Astra intuited his attraction as their gazes locked.

Cole told Lucian his intention—to make Astra develop feelings for them in order to persuade her to relinquish her shares of Orion Arch.

They aimed to replicate the humiliation she endured before the board of directors, as in the original timeline, and put the company under Violet's control.

Clearly, Astra's revelation of Violet's deceit had hurt their pride, which would likely be exacerbated when the truth spread across the galaxy tomorrow.

The twins mistakenly thought they could outwit her into giving everything to Violet, but their assumption was wrong.

Astra intended to navigate the trap they set, finding amusement before turning the tables on their brotherhood.

When she was dying, Astra regretted missing out on life's fun moments. This time, she was determined to enjoy herself. Her engagement wouldn't hold her back.

After getting her revenge, she looked forward to being with the person she truly cared for, the one who deserved her love.

Cole gracefully signaled for a drink, his gaze then resting upon Astra. Meeting his gaze head-on, Astra reciprocated with a steady look.

"Happy birthday," Cole offered, a hint of warmth in his tone.

Astra's lips curved into an appreciative smile. "Thank you," she responded, the words carrying a genuine note of gratitude.

Curiosity sparkled in Cole's eyes. "What did you wish for?" he asked.

Astra answered sincerely, "I wished for honesty among those around me."

Violet glanced at Astra, recognizing the sentiment. A veil of sadness briefly crossed her face, an admission of guilt. Lucian interjected thoughtfully.

"How about leading by example?" Lucian suggested.

Astra met Lucian's gaze. "I do. You should try; it could temper your darker tendencies."

Astra's retort was straightforward yet gentle. Lucian chuckled wryly, mirroring the interaction.

"That's the pot calling the kettle black," Lucian quipped.

Undeterred, Astra replied steadily. "It's interesting how familiar you are with me. Perhaps insights from someone who knows me well? Maybe Violet?"

Looking at Violet, Astra posed a pointed question. "Were the stories this week just an encore? Or had the performance already begun?"

Violet quickly responded, earnestly denying any deceit. "I swear, Astra, I haven't told any deceitful stories about you. I want to restore our bond, not create discord."

Cole affirmed her honesty. "She's telling the truth."

Astra shifted her gaze between Cole and Violet. Lucian chimed in with a touch of appreciation.

"She's not malicious like you," Lucian mused.

Astra smiled mysteriously at Lucian. "Not malicious, my dear, just a hint of mischief. A reminder to be careful, or you might find yourselves in smoldering ashes."

Astra's playful yet assertive words hung in the air, continuing the intriguing conversation.

The twins exchanged knowing smiles, enjoying the idea of winning Astra's affections and revealing her corrupted heart.

Astra's belief that her video was irrefutable held no weight; the twins saw through its choreography.

Violet's visits with marks from Astra's hand provided insight. They knew Violet's anger was genuine.

Initially, they intended just intimidation. But Astra's attempt to expose Violet triggered a more profound rage, prompting a more decisive plan.

Recognizing Violet's contributions at Orion Arch, the twins saw an opportunity. Violet could become the president, and they'd ensure it happened.

They were confident they could capture Astra's affections, deriving amusement from their plan.

A murmur escaped Violet's lips, laden with discomfort. "Astra, they're my friends. I assure you, they're quite charming."

Lucian's soothing gesture, a gentle caress of her head, reassured her. "It's alright," he assured, his voice commanding reassurance.

Astra's laughter rippled through the air as she indulged in her cocktail. Observing Violet's performance, Astra marveled at her adeptness in crafting a facade of victimhood.

The subtle nuances that had eluded her in the original timeline were now laid bare, a testament to Violet's innate acting prowess.

With her glass set aside, Astra's fingers intertwined with Cole's, a purposeful gesture to lead him onto the dancefloor. "Shall we dance?" she proposed.

Violet was briefly surprised as Cole nodded. Cole's compliance followed, an unexpected choice that left Violet momentarily dumbfounded. Astra's invitation went beyond social norms, extending even to Cole.

Violet looked at Lucian, who approved with a smile. She voiced her concern. "Does Da-Ge like Astra?"

Lucian recognized Violet's apprehension and tenderly brushed his fingers against her hair. "He doesn't, don't worry. You won't have to deal with her much longer."

Violet pondered the future, offering a consideration. "Even if she left home, she'll return to work."

In response, Lucian posed a thought-provoking question. "Would you like to assume the presidency of Orion Arch?"

Violet's eyes glistened as she shared her sentiment. "I'd be more than willing, especially given that I'm bearing the brunt of her workload. This week, she didn't even bother to grace us with her presence."

Lucian assured her. "Cole and I will showcase your dedication, making you the company president."

Tears welled up as Violet choked, "Really?"

Lucian promised with determination. "Absolutely. We won't let anyone harm you."

Violet clung to him in a tight embrace, her tears flowing freely. Lucian's gentle touch graced her back, his comforting presence a balm for her distress.

The presidency was a position that rightfully belonged to Violet, a fact they were determined to see realized.

He could hardly wait to dismantle the arrogant façade worn by Astra, though not before they had their share of amusement.

Meanwhile, Astra's gaze locked onto Cole's eyes as they swayed in rhythm on the dancefloor.

With a subtle shift, Cole drew her nearer, their connection deepening. Astra's voice resonated with curiosity and newfound insight.

"You're not quite what I anticipated," she ventured.

Curiosity piqued, Cole inquired, "What did you imagine me to be?"

Astra replied candidly, revealing her perception. "Reserved and enigmatic. Your quiet demeanor triggers apprehension, and there must be a reason."

A smile tugged at Cole's lips. "I speak up mainly when there's trouble. People associate my words with it."

Astra nodded, understanding, then shared her view. "I don't find you intimidating."

Cole affirmed. "Good, I don't want that."

Inquisitiveness sparked in Astra's eyes. "And why is that?"

Cole showed vulnerability. "Because, I find myself drawn to you."

Astra's smile deepened, her cheeks blushing. Similarly, Cole's smile radiated warmth.

Amidst the myriad of possible attractions, the devil herself had captivated him. Typically, selecting a bed partner fell to Lucian, who was far less selective.

However, for Cole, the urge he felt upon seeing Astra was unlike anything he'd experienced before.

An enigmatic quality surrounded her, a compelling allure that both intrigued and exasperated him. Regrettably, her moral compass veered toward darkness.

Yet, this presented an opportunity for him to satiate his desires while also assisting Violet and holding Astra accountable for the torment she had inflicted upon her.

The notion was undeniable—Astra was an exquisite sight, a fact that did not elude Cole's perception.

Astra's conviction remained strong—this endeavor would be effortless.

After more dancing, Astra gracefully moved through the room, thanking guests but avoiding her "friends" and "fiancé."

As the party ended, Astra efficiently had her gifts taken to her suite.

At the doorway, she bid farewell to departing guests, her demeanor poised and graceful.