The revelation of Hunter Reeves as Hunter Mondiego had set the entire city ablaze with speculation, controversy, and intrigue. Media outlets couldn’t get enough of the story, running endless segments on the Mondiego Empire’s expansion into Southbay City and the shocking truth behind their newest heir. Headlines screamed his name, business analysts debated his rise, and social media buzzed with theories about his past.
Among the reporters hungry for more was Eleanor Carter of Daily News. Unlike others who merely reported what was being fed to them, Eleanor dug deeper. She prided herself on uncovering the truth, no matter how dangerous or inconvenient it was. And now, she had discovered something explosive—something no other media outlet had dared to touch.
A confidential tip had landed in her inbox, revealing a critical gap in Hunter Mondiego’s past. The records from the time he disappeared in Southbay City had been conveniently erased, but Eleanor’s sources were too good to be fooled. She had obtained proof—proof that Hunter Mondiego, formerly known as Hunter Reeves, had been imprisoned for attempted murder.
Without hesitation, Eleanor published the story. The article, titled “Mondiego Empire’s Hunter Reeves Behind Bars for Attempted Murder,” hit the newsstands and online platforms like a bomb. The moment it went live, Southbay City was thrown into chaos once more.
As Hunter was in the midst of taking over the Mondiego Empire’s Southbay branch, his phone exploded with calls, emails, and messages. Investors wanted reassurance, allies sought explanations, and enemies waited eagerly for his downfall. But Hunter was no longer the powerless orphan they once knew—he was a Mondiego now, and he faced the storm head-on.
Eleanor herself sent an invitation for him to appear on her primetime show. Many would have ignored such an attack, but Hunter didn’t hesitate. He accepted.
The night of the interview arrived, and the anticipation was immense. The broadcast was being watched not just in Southbay but across the nation. Eleanor, professional as always, wasted no time.
“Dr. Mondiego, let’s address the elephant in the room,” she began, looking at him sharply. “Is it true that you were imprisoned for attempted murder?”
Hunter remained composed, his gaze unwavering. “Whether I was in prison or not, I know that I am not guilty of anything.”
The response caught Eleanor off guard. She had expected either a full denial or a prepared explanation, but his words were ambiguous. Was he admitting to it or refuting it? Before she could press further, Hunter continued.
“Whoever orchestrated my downfall—whoever ensured I ended up behind bars—I promise you this: I will uncover the truth. Now that I have the resources of the Mondiego family, I will make sure that the real culprits are brought to justice. Speculations may circulate, but I will prove my innocence, and those responsible will rot in prison for life.”
His declaration sent shockwaves through the audience. The interview went viral, turning him into a symbol of resilience and defiance. The public, already enamored by his story, rallied behind him. The controversy that was meant to destroy him only made him and the Mondiego Empire more powerful.
The following day, stock markets reflected the effect of his words. The Mondiego Empire’s shares skyrocketed, reaching unprecedented heights. The empire seized the momentum and expanded into new business ventures—luxury real estate, media, and even pharmaceuticals. What was intended as a scandal had instead propelled Hunter and the Mondiego name to new heights of power and influence.
Yet, despite the victory, Hunter knew this was only the beginning. He had silenced the critics for now, but the real battle was far from over.
As the night drew to a close, Hunter finally returned home. The moment he stepped inside, the contrast hit him. Outside, he was a commanding figure, untouchable and feared. Inside, he was alone.
The grand house, though luxurious, felt empty. The silence was deafening, a stark reminder of what was missing. His success, his wealth, his power—none of it filled the void in his heart.
Angel.
He sank onto the couch, running a hand through his hair. He had conquered the business world, faced his past head-on, and proven his strength. But the one thing that truly mattered to him, the one person who had believed in him when no one else did, was still lost to him.
Where was she?
His mind drifted to the last time he saw her, the warmth of her presence, the way she had looked at him with unwavering faith. He had fought so hard to rebuild himself, but without Angel, it all felt incomplete.
As he stared out at the city lights through the massive windows, he whispered to himself, “Where am I supposed to look for you?”
The war in the business world was one he had won. But the battle for his heart—the battle to find Angel—was just beginning.