Chapter 41: Your Man Is Remarkable

"Master, do you have a plan?" Ethan Howard asked hesitantly, his eyes fixed on Mike Carter. There was something in Mike's gaze that made Ethan uneasy—a profound calm and confidence that seemed far beyond the scope of any ordinary college student.

For a moment, Ethan thought he saw someone else entirely in Mike's place.

"I'm all ears," Ethan said with a slight bow.

Mike shrugged and patted Ethan on the shoulder. "My plan is simple: no plan. Stick to the existing framework and let things unfold naturally. Oh, and make sure the Rivers family fills the gap left by the Millers' withdrawal from the investment. If they can't cover it, bring in another family."

Mike had reviewed the investment proposal earlier. Ethan's aim wasn't just financial gain but also forging powerful alliances—a strategy that demonstrated his wisdom and experience.

Ethan smiled, a trace of admiration flickering across his face. "Understood, Master. I'll await your triumphant news."

Mike's confidence didn't seem misplaced. Ethan could tell that Mike wasn't someone who would lose easily.

"I'll head out now. Let me know if you need me," Mike said before leaving Ethan's office.

As Mike walked through the grand hall of Cloud Peak Manor, he couldn't shake the feeling that someone was watching him. Looking up, he saw a striking woman on the second floor. She wore a red cheongsam that accentuated her tall, alluring figure. The slit of the dress revealed her creamy, slender thighs, and her presence radiated an intoxicating charm.

Her beauty was captivating yet understated, the kind that demanded attention without effort. Her perfectly styled hair framed her delicate face, emphasizing her high cheekbones and full lips painted in a sultry red. Her confidence was palpable, exuding a maturity that was equal parts magnetic and intimidating. She leaned casually against the railing, her svelte form creating an alluring S-curve. Surprisingly, despite her beauty, few people seemed to notice her.

When she realized Mike was looking, she didn't avert her gaze. Instead, she winked playfully, her enchanting eyes glimmering with mischief.

Mike felt a surge of awkwardness but decided to head upstairs regardless.

"Were you watching me?" Mike asked when he reached her. Her proximity was even more breathtaking, and Mike found himself struggling to maintain composure.

Up close, the woman's allure was almost overwhelming. Her figure was curvaceous and seductive, and her porcelain skin seemed impossibly smooth.

"Are you the mysterious investor behind the 'Living Like a Tycoon' program?" she asked, her voice soft yet teasing. As she spoke, she reached out and trailed a finger lightly over Mike's chest, tilting his chin upward.

Mike's heart raced. Was she deliberately provoking him?

"How do you know?" he stammered, his voice betraying his nervousness.

The woman laughed, her melodic giggle like the bloom of spring. "Observation."

"That's all it took?" Mike asked incredulously.

She nodded confidently. "Of course. Take the Millers, for instance. James Miller is notoriously proud. For him to humble himself and visit someone in person, there are only two possibilities: either the Miller family is in grave danger, which isn't the case, or he's trying to curry favor with someone extraordinarily influential. Considering the circumstances, it's obvious that person is you."

Mike was stunned. Her deduction was eerily accurate.

"If I'm right, how about a little reward?" she asked, her eyes sparkling mischievously.

Mike blinked, unsure how to respond. "What kind of reward?"

"Relax, little brother. I'm not going to eat you," she teased, her lips curving into a tantalizing smile. "A kiss would suffice."

Mike nearly stumbled. "You've got to be kidding me," he said, flustered.

The woman laughed again. "Relax, I'm just teasing you. But if you're not interested in a kiss, how about this? I noticed the Millers seem to have severed ties with you, and the Rivers family probably can't fill the investment gap. If you're open to it, I could step in."

Mike's jaw dropped. This woman's analytical prowess was terrifying.

"Alright," he agreed, taking out his phone to scan her contact information.

Just as this exchange ended, Ethan Howard exited the dining hall and happened to glance toward the second-floor balcony. His sharp eyes immediately landed on the striking woman. His face darkened as he muttered under his breath, "Of all people, why did the Master have to encounter her?"

The woman was none other than Lillian Snow. Known for her unmatched beauty and razor-sharp intellect, she was a name that sent shivers down the spines of even the most formidable figures in the business world. With her sleek silhouette and enchanting aura, she was often described as a rose with deadly thorns. But what set her apart wasn't just her allure—it was her ability to see through people and situations with uncanny precision.

Ethan shook his head in exasperation. "I should have warned him about her," he muttered, his brows furrowed with concern.

Back at the Rivers residence, the family was anxiously awaiting Veronica's return. Richard Rivers paced the courtyard, his anxiety palpable.

"Why don't we call your father? He's abroad learning God knows what, but his knowledge can't help us now!" Richard said, exasperated.

Sophia shook her head. "If Veronica and Mike can't fix this, Dad won't be able to either."

Just then, the roar of a GTR engine announced Veronica's arrival.

Richard hurried over. "Where's Mike?"

"He had something to do, so he sent me back alone," Veronica replied, stepping out of the car. "I was going to take a cab, but Mike insisted I drive his car."

The Rivers family's ears perked up. A GTR casually lent out—such was the luxury of the wealthy.

But their focus quickly shifted back to the pressing issue at hand.

"How did it go?" Sophia asked.

Veronica smiled, her eyes twinkling with admiration. "Sophia, your boyfriend… is incredible!"

Her words were clear: the crisis was resolved.

Richard immediately jumped to action, checking his phone. "Everyone, gather your funds. The Millers' investment spot is open to us!"

The family erupted into celebration. For the first time, the Rivers family had bested the Millers without outside help. They had taken a step closer to independence—and greatness.

Sophia, flushed with pride, sent Mike a message.

"What are you doing?" she typed, attaching a playful emoji.

"About to take a nap," Mike replied.

"Where? I'll come find you."

Mike blinked at the screen. Was she serious?

"Why?" he asked.

"Dummy, I want to reward you in person," she replied, sending a winking emoji.

Mike bolted upright, his nap instantly forgotten.