Phoenix Rising: From Heartache to Heroism



Liam said, "I've never seen Hade interested in anyone before. I think he's just curious about Violeta right now-probably more interest than actual feelings. But if they do end up together, it wouldn't be bad for your families."

Zoren thought about Liam's words for a moment before turning to Jasper, who was still leaning against the railing. "Jas, what do you think?" Jasper unscrewed his bottle, took a sip, and then casually tossed the empty bottle into the distant trash can with perfect accuracy.

He leaned back against the railing, looking at them.

"I don't know. But if Hade likes her, I think that's great. It's been years he deserves someone by his side. As his friend, I'd be happy for him."

Zoren let out a laugh and walked over to stand beside Jasper.

"Exactly, I feel the same way.

"We've been best friends for so long-I just want someone who understands him."

Liam didn't argue and shrugged. "Fair enough. I've got no problem with that."

Zoren grinned, "Maybe we should invite Vio to join our tennis club. That way, we can all keep an eye on her. After all, she's my cousin, and my mom keeps reminding me to look out for her at school."

He turned to Jasper. "What do you think? You're the club president."

"No problem," Jasper replied.

He then glanced down at his watch. "It's getting late. Are you guys going to Mystique tonight? There's a new DJ."

Zoren shook his head. "Not tonight."

Liam stood up and stretched, "Same here, I can't. My mom's been keeping me on a short leash lately."

Zoren raised an eyebrow. "What's going on with your family, Liam?"

Liam sighed. "There's some kind of trouble over in Harbor City. Apparently, my dad has an illegitimate child."

"What?"

Zoren almost choked on nothing.

Even Jasper looked a little surprised. "What's going on?"

Liam shrugged. "Who knows? It might not even be true. My mom hasn't given me all the details, but I'm pretty sure it's real. They're probably getting a paternity test done or something. Right now, they're still over in Harbor City."

Zoren looked at him in disbelief. "Liam, when did this happen? Your parents aren't getting divorced, are they?"

"They won't, not for my sake at least. My mom's not the type to leave, even if this turns out to be true. But whatever, I don't want to talk about it."

Jasper stepped forward and patted Liam on the shoulder. "If you need anything, you know we've got your back."

Liam gave him a nod. "Thanks. I'm out of here."

"See you."

Later that night, Jasper headed to Mystique, as usual. A few of his friends had put together a small gathering.

Jasper had a few drinks while the others chatted excitedly about some new girls at the bar. Some students from the nearby film academy had started working there part-time.

All around him, he could hear the guys debating which girl was the best-looking.

Jasper sat in a corner, smoking a cigarette. His dark eyes were partially hidden by the rising smoke. He stayed silent, and no one really knew what was on his mind.

Since that incident where Jasper smashed the glass in anger, no one dared to joke around carelessly in front of him anymore.

They had learned their lesson about crossing the line.

et

After all, the Weekleys weren't a family anyone could casually mess with. The only reason they were even hanging out with Jasper was because he liked to have fun. But if anyone pushed him too far, they knew they'd be in serious trouble.

He was, after all, the sole heir to the Weekleys.

In most wealthy families, there were plenty of children, and inheritances were split among them. However, Jasper's father was a loyal man. He had been in an arranged marriage with Cynthia since childhood, and despite the freedom of wealth and power, he had never strayed from her, neither before nor after their marriage. Jasper was their only son.

Jasper was undeniably the future head of the Weekley family.All content © N/.ôvel/Dr/ama.Org.

Even the most mild-tempered lion is still a lion. And his temperament depended entirely on his mood.

"Jasper, want to order some drinks and check out the new girls?" one of the guys suggested.

"Sure. Whatever," Jasper replied calmly, flicking the ash from his cigarette.

"Alright! I'll go outside and make the arrangements."

Jasper glanced at him but said nothing, leaning back into the cushions of the sofa.

A few minutes later, a group of

waitresses entered, carrying trays of drinks. They were dressed in short skirts and some had gone the extra mile, wearing black stockings or fiss to catch the eye.