Sarah didn't care what Charlotte might say after leaving, but just thinking about her earlier performance made her agitated.In her sour mood, instead of returning to the private dining room, she decided to settle the bill at the front desk first to calm herself down.After paying, she turned around—only to come face-to-face with the leading lady of that earlier drama, Charlotte, and her fiancé, James.Sarah hesitated. Just her luck.She'd planned to walk past pretending not to see them, but James suddenly spoke up: "Sarah, we need to talk."He’d just learned that the extravagant meal Sarah had been treating them to at St. Ritz cost over four thousand. And it was all for the sake of impressing Zachary Reynolds?He suddenly realized Sarah wasn't putting on a show for him – she might actually be trying to climb the social ladder through Zachary.But how could she so easily throw herself into another man’s arms right after their divorce? Did their three years together mean nothing?
Recognizing who had arrived, James's eyes flashed with unease. "Mr. Reynolds, how long have you been here? I didn't know you had a habit of eavesdropping."Zachary remained composed, positioning himself beside Sarah without sparing James a glance. "In such a public space, how is it eavesdropping?""Besides, Mr. Chancer, Sasa’’s your ex-wife now, isn't she? You've lost the right to have any say in her life."Sasa?James's face darkened.Zachary was known for keeping his distance from women, and few people on the East Coast could even claim to be on speaking terms with him. Yet here he was, using such an intimate nickname for Sarah?His gaze shifted to Sarah, finding her completely unfazed. This inexplicably infuriated him.In the past, Sarah would have certainly offered him an explanation.But now she stood calmly beside another man, completely indifferent to his feelings.James stared intently at Sarah, as if trying to read something in her expression. "Clearly I'm meddling wh
James drove Charlotte back to the Chancer estate.As soon as they entered, Lucy rushed to greet them, excitedly waving her phone.“James! You won't believe what I saw today!"Lucy thrust her phone in James's face. "That whore Sarah must have been cheating during your marriage!"The screen showed a photo of Zachary gently helping Sarah into his car. Whether it was the camera angle or not, the scene appeared oddly intimate.The earlier irritation resurfaced as James's expression darkened.Lucy, completely oblivious to her brother's mood, continued excitedly, “James, it's only been days since your divorce. How could she possibly snag another man so quickly? She must have been cheating! How dare someone like her claim part of the Chancer fortune? You need to take back that house you gave her!"Noting James's silence, Mrs. Chancer stepped forward. "James, though we're wealthy, money doesn't grow on trees. I know you're kind-hearted and didn't want to leave her empty-handed after thes
Alone upstairs, James couldn't shake the image of Zachary and Sarah leaving together.His brow furrowed as he lit a cigarette.Had Sarah really betrayed him during their marriage?Remembering Sarah's cold detachment during their divorce, James realized it wasn't impossible.Taking a deep drag from his cigarette, he picked up his phone and found her number – one he rarely dialed.Driven by curiosity and suspicion, he felt compelled to confront Sarah.The call connected quickly, but a mechanical voice responded: "Sorry, the number you have dialed is not available. Please try again later."James frowned, hanging up and immediately redialing."Sorry, the number you have dialed is not..."He slammed the end call button, gripping his phone tightly, his face dark with anger.Damn Sarah!She'd actually blocked his number!...James's appearance hadn't particularly affected Sarah. With work the next day, she went to bed early.The following morning at school, her colleague immedia
That afternoon, after putting up the promotional posters, registration numbers surged even higher. While Sarah was busy coordinating with student volunteers, an unwelcome visitor appeared at the registration booth."Psychology Competition? They actually put that tramp Sarah in charge this year?" Lucy Chancer glared at Sarah's name on the poster, her eyes filled with venom.Her sidekick Lindsey nodded in agreement. "Exactly! How irresponsible of the university to hand over such an important annual event to a newbie like her. And she's so full of herself – why does her name need to be plastered all over the poster?"Sarah hadn't known about her name on the poster – that was Mia's doing. The young girl had specifically instructed the design team to make Sarah's name prominent.Lucy scoffed, ignoring Lindsey's comments. Looking at the poster, she suddenly smirked and beckoned to Lindsey. "Come on, let's sign up. This could be fun."At the registration booth, a haughty voice suddenly
Surprisingly, Lucy ignored Mia's mockery, her smile growing even more eager. "Come on, Mia, why are we doing this? Our families have so many business dealings. Why defend someone like Sarah? She's just a divorced nobody."Mia was disgusted. Lucy's fawning behavior gave her the creeps.Even Lindsey, standing behind Lucy, looked shocked at her friend's behavior."Lucy, if you don't leave now, I'll have security escort you out," Mia said flatly.Though taken aback, Lucy maintained her smile, standing up casually. "Well, since you're busy, I'll get going. See you around!"How shameless can she be?After Lucy disappeared, Mia exhaled in relief, turning to Sarah. "Sarah, do you think Lucy's lost her mind?"Sarah pondered for a moment before shaking her head. "From what I know of her, she's not one to back down quietly. Whatever she's planning, it can't be good."...Once away from the booth, Lindsey couldn't contain her curiosity. "Lucy, why were you so nice to Mia today?"Usually,
Lindsey gazed at Lucy with admiration, laying on the flattery. "Oh my god, Lucy, your brother's so sweet! I heard CEOs are super busy, yet he makes time to pick up his sister!"Lucy preened under the praise, smirking proudly. "Well, of course. My brother totally dotes on me. I'm his favorite.""God, Lucy, I'm so jealous! You've got the looks, the family background, and such an amazing brother... I've never even been in a Maserati!" Lindsey gushed, secretly hoping Lucy would offer her a ride. She could already imagine the Instagram photos making her high school friends green with envy.As expected, Lucy scoffed dismissively. "Look at you, acting like you've never seen luxury before. Fine, I'll have my brother give you a ride too!"With that, Lucy strode toward James.“James, what brings you here today?" she called out in an artificially sweet voice, basking in the attention from passing students. Sure, she'd always had a private driver, but James had forced her to keep things low-k
James's eyes darkened, his lip twitching involuntarily.The woman in front of him had changed so much that she now dared to speak to him in such a tone.Seeing his silence, Sarah had no interest in prolonging this encounter and turned to leave.But before she could step away, a strong hand gripped her wrist.James had run out of patience. He yanked her back roughly, leaving visible marks on her skin."Ouch—"Sarah clutched her aching wrist, glaring up at him."James Chancer, what do the hell you want? You—""We need to talk."He cut her off coldly, his eyes unconsciously fixing on her reddening wrist, stirring unexpected emotions.Sarah let out a harsh laugh. "Sorry, not interested. There's nothing to discuss."Her dismissal caught James off guard, igniting his anger."Sarah, I tried to keep things civil. I gave you money and property out of guilt, but that was before I knew you were involved with another man. Is that why you signed the divorce papers so eagerly? Was it bec
After Shawn and Amanda left, Melvin warned, "Sasa, Sydney won't let this go. Be careful.""I will. Heading to the office?"“Yep. See you at home." Then he left too.Alone at last, Mia threw herself into Sarah's arms. "I've missed you so much! I've been trying to see you, but my grandfather wouldn't let me out. I finally found a way!""Did you sneak out?" Sarah asked, getting some coconut pudding from the fridge."Not this time!" Mia said proudly. "I made a deal with my new therapist.""A deal?"Mia nodded. “My grandfather and brother keep finding therapists, but I couldn't work with any of them. This one's different - I agreed to treatment if he'd bring me here."Sarah looked at her with concern. "Still having nightmares?""Yes. Without you, I'm always panicking. Even at home, my heart races. I just want to lock myself in my room, avoid everyone. But with you, I feel safe. I can talk again." Mia took a bite of pudding.Sarah had always known Mia depended on her - it seemed es
"Sydney," Mia said mockingly, "if you want Sarah to forgive you, it's simple - get on your knees and apologize. Right here, in front of everyone. And promise you'll never bother her again."On her knees?Sydney's eyes widened. Kneel before Sarah? Before that bitch?"Never! I won't kneel to her!"Sarah stepped closer, with a cool smile. "Fine. Then I'll personally see you to a cell. The last person like you is already in prison, and your cousin won't escape either.""You're threatening me!" Sydney's face flushed.Mrs. Blanco turned tearfully to Amanda. "Amanda, look at your niece! We're family - how can she demand Sydney kneel?"Before Amanda could speak, Shawn pulled her back. "Mrs. Blanco, where was this 'family' talk when your daughter was plotting? Since Sarah wants an apology on knees, that's what she'll get. Unless you want Benjamin back in detention? How would Lady White take that?""Uncle! I'm your niece too! Why protect only her?" Sydney's tears started falling."Sydne
"I see." Old Lady White fixed Sydney with an icy stare. "Benjamin, is this true?""No! Grandmother, please believe me! I'd never do something like this. Sarah's framing me - it's all her plot!" Sydney looked at her grandmother desperately.Benjamin pressed on, "She even warned me on the way to the hospital not to mention her involvement.""You're lying! Benji, look carefully at who's really trying to destroy you!" Sydney turned on Benjamin like a cornered animal."Look at yourself, Sydney," Mia said coldly. "You're acting unhinged. Your cousin's confessed - what's left to deny?""You Reynolds have no place here! This is Sanders family business. Anyone can see Sarah's manipulating everything behind the scenes!"Benjamin shook his head fiercely. "Grandmother, Sydney did this! Now that everything's blown up, she's trying to pin it all on me when she's the real mastermind."Old Lady White's expression grew colder. Finally dropping her facade, she said, "If this was Sydney's scheme
After multiple kidnapping attempts, her nerves were shot. She couldn't relax.Even walking down the street, any man would trigger her fear.Seeing Mia's furrowed brow, Sarah recognized the signs of PTSD. She made a silent decision.When Melvin brought Benjamin in, Old Lady White rushed to her grandson, distressed. "Benjamin, you've lost so much weight in just three days!"Sydney crowded in. “Benji, did they hurt you in detention?""No, no," Benjamin's unusual panic showed as he glanced nervously at Sarah, desperately denying everything.Sydney caught on. She whirled toward Sarah. "What did you do to him? Grandmother! Mother! I just remembered something!"She stared at Sarah in shock. "Mom! Don't you remember what she said when we first confronted her? She said she'd find a way to make Benjamin confess. Now I understand - she had him beaten into a confession!"Amanda looked at Sarah in disbelief. "Sasa, is this true?""Aunt Amanda, you've already decided to believe her. Why ask
Weighing the costs, they'd decided to cut Sarah loose."And what if Benjamin really is guilty?" Melvin challenged the lawyer. "What consequences will he face?"Old Lady White scoffed. "Don't be ridiculous. Benjamin is a White - any discipline will come from us, not you. Even if you are Amanda's son, you don't get to lord it over us."Before things escalated, Sarah cut in. "Melvin, please get Benjamin from detention.""Fine."Outside the detention center, Melvin leaned against his car, cigarette in hand, eyes hard with impatience.When the doors opened, two officers brought Benjamin out. Melvin remembered him from family events - once polished and confident, now disheveled and defeated. His sunken eyes told the story of his time inside.Oddly enough, the White family hadn't pulled any strings to get him out earlier, despite their influence.Benjamin's eyes darted nervously when he saw Melvin, almost afraid to approach."Where's my family?" He looked around anxiously.He'd neve
Sydney tensed. "What? How dare you accuse me?""Why not? Am I wrong?" Sarah's smile was cold."Stop slandering us!" Mrs. Blanco erupted. "We shouldn't just take your word for it. If you're so confident, release Benjamin and let's hear both sides!"Sydney spat, "Not everyone's as shameless as you! You've already been divorced once. You know what the Chancers say about you? That you cheated during your marriage, then tried to social climb your way into the Reynolds family. But that plan backfired, didn't it? So who's really the shameless one here?""Shut up!" A sharp voice cut through the room. Everyone turned to see Mia Reynolds standing in the doorway.The room shifted - everyone knew the Reynolds heiress, the girl they'd all tried desperately to curry favor with."Mia? How did you get here?"Sarah had heard Mia was basically under house arrest lately, her grandfather even stopping her therapy sessions.Instead of answering Sarah, Mia walked straight to Sydney. "Say that again.
"Not necessary." Sarah brushed past her without a glance.Sydney stomped her foot in anger. How dare she ignore her!"Don't get cocky! Let's see how calm you stay when my grandmother brings the family lawyers!"Sarah stopped and turned back with a mocking look. "My attitude is none of your business. But I know you won't be smiling for long.""Sarah! What's that supposed to mean?" Sydney shouted.But Sarah was already in her car, leaving Sydney red-faced with rage.Three days after Benjamin's arrest, Old Lady White arrived at Melvin's house with the family lawyers and board members, including Shawn and Amanda.In the formal living room sat two senior partners from the family's law firm.Old Lady White sat with a dark expression, while Mrs. Blanco stood tearfully beside Amanda. Sydney stared at Sarah with wild eyes.Shawn stood to the side, his expression grave. Melvin positioned himself next to Sarah, watching her protectively.The senior lawyer spoke first. "This situation is
In the sitting room, Mia studied the new therapist. Something about him seemed different from the others.After a long silence, he spoke. "Hello, Miss Reynolds. I'm your new therapist."Mia gave the butler a look, and he tactfully left.She studied the man curiously, keeping her tone polite but distant. "Look, I know my grandfather sent you to treat me, but I should tell you - I already have a therapist. Don't waste your time. Keep your fee, but you can't help me. I'm beyond that."Unlike the others, this therapist didn't get angry. Instead, he looked at her with interest. He'd heard about the difficult Miss Reynolds before coming. Her file showed they'd tried every known treatment method with little success. Her current stability was credited to that famous Decker Competition champion."Miss Reynolds, I understand your position, but hear me out. Your grandfather clearly has reservations about Miss Sanders, or he wouldn't have brought you home and gone to such lengths to find you
Amanda seemed satisfied. Now that Shawn had promised to handle it, she could relax.At Sanders Group headquarters, a woman in a dress walked into the elevator. Oddly, no one stopped her.The elevator went straight to the 35th floor. She used her fingerprint to open an office door and walked in. “Melvin.”Melvin turned to face Sarah. "Sasa, what brings you here?""Can't I visit my dearest cousin?” Sarah glanced at the Sanders Group stock prices on his screen."Sasa, I heard about yesterday," he said worriedly. "Did Grandmother and Aunt make a scene at home today? Don't worry about them. Benjamin had no right to touch you - and when he gets out, he'll have me to deal with!""I'm fine, really."Sarah told him everything that happened. "But I need your help with something.""Name it."Sarah stood on tiptoe, whispering in his ear.Melvin smiled. "Look at my clever sister!""I'm counting on you!" Sarah beamed."Don't worry." A cold glint passed through Melvin's eyes. "I won't go