Chapter 167
+25 BONUS
Harvey stated confidently, “You just mentioned the new development zone. If it’s not East Side, where else could it be? Let’s turn on the TV and watch the news. I’m sure the media will be calling me, the biggest winner, for interviews any minute now!”
Then, he lounged back, feeling smug. Leroy rushed to turn on the TV like an eager puppy, and the Stevens family watched intently, brimming with excitement.
Someone muttered, “Wait… that doesn’t look like the East Side!“.
“It’s not East Side. It looks more like West End.”
“Yeah, it’s definitely West End–that run–down area with all the cheap land around it. The city tried to sell it before, but no one was stupid enough to take it,” another commented.
The Stevens family members quickly realized something was wrong. The payments being discussed on TV were not for the East Side at all, but for the West End–the complete opposite side of town.
Cold sweat broke out on Harvey’s forehead, though he tried to maintain his composure. “Ah, West End… I hadn’t heard they were developing that area too. Don’t worry, everyone. The big news usually comes later they’ll cover East Side after West End.”
–
Irene sighed in relief. “That nearly gave me a heart attack. But you’re right, Harvey. They’ll announce our East Side payout any minute now.”
“Come on, hurry up!” Leroy bounced impatiently. “I need my millions for my Bugatti!”
Christina remained silent, but her clenched fists betrayed her anxiety. Andrew glanced at them, fighting back laughter at their collective stupidity–especially Harvey, who was still in denial even now.
Francesca could not contain herself like Andrew and giggled behind her hand, already guessing the huge disappointment that awaited Harvey and the Stevens family.
Then, the camera turned to Mark, who was surrounded by Jayrodale officials for an interview. The reporter asked, “Mr. Thatcher, why was West End chosen for the new development zone instead of areas like East Side or South City?” the reporter asked..
“This decision was made after careful consideration of all factors,” Mark explained. “West End has always been the city’s priority for redevelopment.”
Christina turned off the TV, her mind completely blank.
Leroy trembled with rage as he turned to Harvey and shouted, “That money I gave you was everything 1 had! What the hell happened to East Side? How did it become West End? I want my money back right now!!!
Gone was any pretense of respect
Chapter 167
45 BONUS
Irene looked like she was about to faint, struggling to contain her fury as she stared at Harvey. Her face crumpled as she fought back tears. After all, she had invested every penny of her retirement savings, and now it was all gone.
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