Andros_Karova

Ethan Cross was just a broke university student, juggling part-time delivery jobs and barely making ends meet. To make things worse, his girlfriend dumped him for a rich guy, calling him "a loser with no future."

But fate had other plans.

On a whim, he bought an old painting at an auction for $50, not knowing it would change his life forever. That painting was once the most treasured possession of Alexander Langford, the world's richest man who had just passed away. And in his will, Langford made a shocking decision:

Whoever bought the painting would inherit his entire fortune.

Now, Ethan is the heir to a trillion-dollar empire, with mansions, private jets, elite companies, and more money than he can ever spend. But wealth comes with its own dangers—rival corporations, underground syndicates, and even secret cults want him dead.

To make matters more complicated, Langford’s final wish was for Ethan to marry his only daughter, Myra Langford—a cold and mysterious beauty with a past of her own.

With power beyond imagination, enemies lurking in the shadows, and a woman he can’t understand, Ethan must navigate this new world while keeping his true strength hidden.

From rags to royalty… his reign has just begun.

Streets to Fortune

The dim glow from a single overhead bulb flickered in Ethan Cross's rundown apartment, casting sharp shadows along the peeling walls. The place was barely furnished—a narrow bed, a desk with a single chair, and a wardrobe with creaky hinges. It wasn't grand, nor was it meant to be. It was a hiding place, a disguise, a temporary existence.

Tonight, however, Ethan wasn't just a nameless student blending into the background. Tonight, he was walking into enemy territory.

A Michelin-star restaurant, the kind of place where the rich gathered to show off, flaunt their wealth, and make it clear who belonged—and who didn't. Normally, Ethan wouldn't have cared, but after Lucas Aldridge's arrogance, he had no choice but to show up.

"Since it's your idea, let's split the bill 50-50."

Lucas's smug words echoed in his mind. The bastard had set a trap, expecting Ethan to crawl back and beg. Pathetic.

James had made it clear earlier—he wouldn't be coming.

"I have other matters to handle, Young Master Ethan. Take a cab."

Ethan didn't argue. A flashy entrance wasn't necessary tonight.

He stood in front of the cracked mirror, adjusting his black jacket over a black button-up shirt, the first button undone. His black trousers were simple but fit perfectly. It was effortless, casual, yet carried an undeniable presence.

His phone buzzed on the desk. A message.

[Unknown Number]: Don't be late. Table is reserved.]

Ethan ignored it. He'd arrive when he wanted to.

With a last glance around his apartment, he grabbed his keys and stepped outside into the cold night air.

Fifteen minutes later, the yellow cab rolled to a stop in front of Royal Garden.

The contrast was stark. Luxury cars lined the entrance—Bentleys, Rolls-Royces, Ferraris—all polished to perfection. The golden glow from the restaurant's exterior lights reflected off their surfaces, making them look even more expensive than they already were.

Ethan stepped out, his black shoes hitting the pavement as he adjusted his jacket.

"Didn't even bother to rent a decent car?"

"Looks like someone is going to be broke by the end of the night."

A few snickered. Others outright sneered. Their expressions were filled with disdain, amusement, and superiority.

Unlike the rest, Jordan didn't mock him. Instead, he stepped forward, his expression unreadable. Then, in one swift motion, he extended his hand.

Jordan leaned in slightly and whispered, "Do you need some cash to pay up for tonight?"

Ethan let out a short chuckle, shaking his head. "Don't worry about me."

Jordan exhaled, stepping back. "Alright, just making sure. You know these guys are waiting to see you fail."

Ethan's gaze flickered toward Lucas, who stood near the entrance, arms crossed, an arrogant smirk pulling at his lips.

Ethan walked past his classmates, their whispers buzzing around him like flies. He didn't react, didn't acknowledge them.

Because by the end of the night, they'd know exactly who they were dealing with.

Chapter 26 – Preparing for the Class Dinner