Chapter 5

Before the security guard could react, Felix had already whisked Ophelia into the CEO's private elevator.

Everyone else was left speechless.

They had never seen Felix with a woman before, which had fueled plenty of rumors at Harold Plaza. Some said Felix was asexual, while others speculated he didn't like women at all.

The fact that Felix had spoken to Ophelia was shocking enough, but inviting her into the CEO's private elevator? Unbelievable.

Who exactly was she?

In the CEO's office on the top floor, Ophelia and Felix stepped out of the elevator into a spacious penthouse.

The walls were covered in high-end wallpaper, some spots featured intricate carvings, and in the open spaces, there were priceless, rare paintings.

Everything exuded a subtle air of classical luxury.

Ophelia's eyes widened with amazement. She knew Felix was wealthy, but she hadn't realized the extent of his wealth.

Their acquaintance began three years ago.

Back then, she had just entered Oak Haven Retreat. Everyone disliked her but couldn't beat her.

When she was still with the Hayes family, she had dabbled in boxing.

To make money, she had even fought in underground boxing rings.

So when she saw Felix, who had also ended up at Oak Haven Retreat and was being bullied by a group, she stepped in.

She beat the leader of Felix's tormentors black and blue, leaving him with a bloody nose and unable to get up from the ground.

After that, everyone's view of her changed.

In just ten minutes, she went from being someone anyone could bully to a queen who would make anyone regret crossing her.

The person she had beaten up was a well-known veteran at Oak Haven Retreat, rumored to have participated in multiple international wars with countless kills.

But she had defeated him in a few moves, which left everyone baffled.

After she saved Felix, he stuck to her, seeking her protection.

Wherever she went, Felix followed. Sometimes, when she got annoyed, she would tell everyone that Felix was hers, and anyone who dared to mess with him would have to deal with her.

No one dared to trouble Felix again, but Felix continued to follow her.

Until one day, Felix stood before her, looking guilty, and said, "I'm sorry, Ms. Hayes, but I have to leave Oak Haven Retreat. Once I get things sorted outside, I'll come back for you."

She didn't say much then, nor did she hold out much hope.

After all, Oak Haven Retreat was hard to get into and even harder to leave.

Most people there would be content just to see the outside world again in their lifetime.

No one dreamed of completely leaving Oak Haven Retreat.

But Felix did come back for her later and fulfilled his promise, taking her out.

Unfortunately, she refused because, by then, she could come and go from Oak Haven Retreat as she pleased, not just through that hole.

Thinking back on those times, Ophelia felt a wave of emotion.

They walked down the corridor to Felix's office, where Felix made a gesture inviting Ophelia inside.

Felix closed the door slowly, leaning against his desk as he raised his head to look at Ophelia. "Ms. Hayes, I never thought I'd see you outside again."

Ophelia took in her surroundings, updating her understanding. Felix wasn't just wealthy; his wealth could rival that of a small European country's president.

Many items here she had only seen in books, including the eagle figurine on his desk.

If she remembered correctly, it was a gift from the royal family to a mysterious honorary family for helping them with a significant matter. The family was a lifesaver for the royal family.

Ophelia didn't think much of it, assuming Felix's background was extraordinary.

She sat in the chair across from Felix, who poured her a coffee and handed it to her.

"I've been inside for a long time, so I came out for a walk. This time, I'm here for revenge."

"Revenge? Do you need my help?" Felix asked.

Ophelia shook her head and took a sip of coffee.

She planned to handle this herself, without anyone's help. But there were some things she needed someone to do for her.

"I heard you have a subsidiary that provides security services for foreign leaders?"

Felix nodded seriously. "Yeah, most of the security company's employees are former members of renowned international mercenary groups. They're all highly skilled, and most tasks are easy for them."

"Do you have any that are a bit weaker?" she asked.

Felix was puzzled. If she needed security, wouldn't she want the best?

Ophelia didn't explain in detail, and Felix understood she had her reasons. He quickly arranged for a batch of mercenaries who were relatively weaker.

"Good. Soon, a man named Richard will contact you for security. Give him these people and make sure they have my phone number. I have tasks for them." Ophelia took out her phone and gave him a number.

This phone was given to her by Blake after she moved into Pine Ridge Estate, to keep her from getting lost.

It had a tracking system, which she had modified to function like a regular phone.

Felix stood stunned after hearing Ophelia's instructions. She repeated herself, thinking she hadn't been clear.

Felix quickly snapped out of it and agreed. "Got it, Ms. Hayes. Don't worry, they'll complete your tasks."

Ophelia glanced at the muscle-bound men, nodded coldly, and left Harold Plaza.

By the time she stepped outside, it was almost dark. The sky had turned a deep blue-black, with a small crescent moon hanging above.

Ophelia checked the time. It was already 8 PM. She needed to hurry back.

She hailed a cab and told the driver to get her to her destination by 9 PM, no matter what.

The driver glanced at the time and, without hesitation, floored the gas pedal, barreling into a narrow alley.

The alley was lined with various shops, some with long lines outside.

The food and bustling activity flashed by the car window as Ophelia turned her gaze away.

The driver slammed on the brakes, nearly hitting a burly man in a hoodie and cap. The driver's face turned pale, frozen in his seat. He was clearly terrified.