Malberry had changed over the years. New skyscrapers pierced the skyline, and modern shopping malls replaced old familiar shops. Yet, beneath the shiny surface, the city remained strikingly similar to what Ethan remembered. It was still a place where the wealthy lived in opulence while the poor struggled to survive, where reputation was everything, and where judgment was passed as easily as exchanging greetings. As the wheels of his private jet touched down smoothly on the runway of Malberry's exclusive private airport, Ethan Thorne looked out the window with eyes that revealed nothing but calm calculation. This was the same airport he had once watched from behind a fence, knowing he could never enter. Now, he was stepping off the plane as one of the most powerful men in the world.
His assistant, Mark, who had been with him for two years and knew nothing of his boss's past, stepped forward carrying a leather briefcase. "Sir, the arrangements have been made. The convoy is waiting outside, and the staff at the estate have been briefed on your requirements," Mark reported respectfully. "Everything is ready for you."
"Good job, Mark," Ethan said with a faint nod, adjusting the cuffs of his custom-made suit. "Let's go."
Surrounded by a team of efficient security personnel and assistants, Ethan walked out of the airport terminal. His face was expressionless, but deep down, his heart was filled with mixed emotions. He was back—not as Edward Garcia, the unwanted son, but as Ethan Thorne, the mysterious global billionaire.
His first step was to establish a strong foothold in the city. He purchased one of the most prestigious mansions in the upscale district—a sprawling estate with vast gardens, a swimming pool, and a panoramic view of the entire city. The property was equipped with state-of-the-art security systems and modern facilities, making it a fortress as well as a luxurious home. Standing on the balcony of his master bedroom, Ethan looked down at the familiar streets below.
"Sir, this property is one of the best in the city. It was previously owned by a former business tycoon," Mark introduced as he stood beside Ethan. "Many influential people in Malberry live in this area."
"I know," Ethan replied softly, his eyes fixed on a distant mansion that looked somewhat familiar. "I used to dream of living in such a place… or at least, I used to dream of being treated as someone worthy of such places."
Mark looked at him with confusion, but Ethan just smiled faintly and didn't explain further.
Then, Ethan began to actively participate in the social and business circles of Malberry. He attended high-end galas, charity auctions, and business summits, always appearing elegant, calm, and charismatic. People were curious about this newcomer who seemed to possess endless wealth and influence, yet remained mysterious about his background.
At a charity dinner, Ethan was approached by an elderly man who used to be a business partner of the Garcia family. The man looked at Ethan carefully, frowning slightly as if trying to recall something.
"Excuse me, young man," the elderly man said cautiously. "I don't mean to be rude, but you look somewhat familiar to me. Have we met before? You remind me of someone I knew many years ago… the Garcia family's second son." Ethan raised his glass slowly, a confident and distant smile on his face.
"Is that so? It's quite possible, Sir. I have traveled to many places and met many people. But as far as I remember, this is the first time I have the honor of meeting you."
The man shook his head, feeling confused but unable to make the connection. "Maybe I'm just getting old and mistaken. I apologize, Mr. Thorne."
"No need to apologize," Ethan said gracefully. "It's always nice to make new acquaintances."
His appearance, temperament, and aura were completely different from the weak and timid Edward Garcia of the past. No one could link the powerful billionaire standing in front of them to the abandoned boy from years ago.
Ethan's business moves were also carefully planned. He invested in major industries in Malberry, quietly buying shares in companies owned by influential families, including those related to the Garcia family. He acquired struggling businesses and turned them profitable with his innovative technologies and management strategies, while keeping his true intentions hidden behind a series of complicated transactions. He was like a spider, quietly weaving a huge web, waiting for the right time to catch his prey. Every night, in the quiet of his study, Ethan would carefully read the reports sent by his private investigators. These were not just business analyses, but detailed information about the Garcia family and Alicia. He wanted to know everything about them—their financial situation, social interactions, current living conditions, and even their health status.
One evening, Mark brought in the latest investigation documents and placed them on Ethan's desk.
"Sir, here are the latest updates you requested," Mark said respectfully. "The situation regarding the Garcia family is not good. Mr. Garcia's law firm is facing serious lawsuits and huge debts, and their reputation has been greatly damaged. Mrs. Garcia's health has also been poor recently, and she rarely goes out to social events." Ethan flipped through the documents slowly, his face showing no emotion, but his eyes flashed with a cold light.
"And what about the woman… Alicia?"
"She is currently living in the old district of the city," Mark replied. "She does not have a stable job and lives a very ordinary life. According to our latest information, she seems to be suffering from some chronic illness, but the details are not clear yet."
"I see," Ethan closed the file, leaning back in his chair. "Keep investigating. I want to know everything about them. Don't miss any detail."
"Yes, Sir," Mark nodded and withdrew quietly.
Ethan sat alone in the dim light of the study. Every piece of information he received seemed to add fuel to the fire of revenge burning in his heart. He didn't just want them to suffer; he wanted them to clearly see his success and glory, and deeply regret the mistakes they had made. He was not in a hurry. He wanted to enjoy every step of the process of their downfall.
Malberry was his chessboard, and he was the master player, ready to launch his fatal attack at any time. The person they thought had disappeared forever had returned, and the impact he would bring was about to shake the foundation of the entire city.