Chapter 5: He Always Wanted to Get Rid of You

Shelia’s POV

Even among a group of muscular men, Hugh's face stood out.

As Travis pinned the gold medal on Hugh's left chest, I overheard some women nearby.

"That pilot, Hugh, is so handsome."

"I heard he's also an heir to the Thornton Group."

"Really? He doesn't look like those playboys who only drink and chase women."

"I wish he was a playboy. Who wouldn't want a fling with a man like that?"

Hearing this, I felt a secret pride. I even wanted to tell everyone, "This man is my husband!"

But seeing Esther standing beside him, I turned away sadly, taking a few sips of champagne.

Travis, noticing my displeasure, tried to introduce me to some new people.

"Travis, is this your new girlfriend?" asked a young, brown-haired man of average build. He then smiled at me, "Have we met before?"

"This is Mason Quinn, the mayor's son," Travis introduced, then whispered to me, "He's not worth it. Let's meet someone else."

I smiled politely at Mason, thinking, "We've more than met. A few days ago, I saw you naked with Carol."

But not wanting trouble, I simply replied, "No, we haven't met."

"I think Travis should give you an award too. Beauty is also a weapon," he continued to flatter.

Normally, compliments would be pleasant. But remembering Mason with Carol, his praise now felt disgusting.

"Shelia," Hugh's deep voice suddenly sounded beside me.

I turned to see his angry face. I didn't know why Hugh suddenly came to find me. Was he trying to embarrass me? He cheated first, how dare he accuse me?

After a brief argument, Travis helped send him away. But Hugh's interruption left me unsettled, so I had another drink. Feeling a bit tipsy, I went to the restroom.

After washing my face, I felt the flush subside a bit. But as I looked up, I saw the last person I wanted to see in the mirror - Esther!

I ignored her and headed for the door, but she grabbed my arm.

"I want to talk to you privately."

"We have nothing to discuss." I was furious. I respected her as a doctor saving lives, so I didn't slap her, yet here she was causing trouble.

"Hugh told me everything. You forced him to marry you. He doesn't love you. You should sign the divorce papers and let him go."

“Yes, I made him marry me, but I didn’t force him to sleep with me. Besides, he’s the one refusing to sign now, not me. Do you want me to send you another copy of the divorce papers?” I deliberately provoked her.

"You..." She raised her right hand to slap me but seeing someone enter the restroom, she controlled herself and slammed her hand on the sink instead.

"Whatever happened between you and Hugh before, you're not suitable for him. You're not his type. Let me tell you a secret. You think Hugh only wants a divorce now? He's wanted to get rid of you for a long time. We've been together for over a year. One reason he joined the peacekeeping forces was to get away from you."

"You don't need to sow discord. He's not that kind of person." In my heart, Hugh might not be a romantic lover or an attentive husband, but at least he was honest and upright. He never lied.

"If you don't believe me, ask him yourself. He's just been hiding it to spare your feelings. I'm telling you all this to persuade you to give up early. It's best for everyone. We'll compensate you for your loss. 20 million isn't a small amount. A woman like you couldn't earn that much in a lifetime without relying on men. Don't be too greedy."

I never expected Esther, seen by everyone as rational and kind, to say such harsh words. But I feared she might be telling the truth. Before I could respond, a loud crash mixed with screams interrupted us.

Esther rushed out of the restroom towards the hall. I followed, slower in my high heels. Suddenly, many people surged out of the hall amidst screams, curses, and fire alarms.

A woman let out a terrible cry; I looked over to see her on the ground, her palm a bloody mess, either injured by something or trampled by high heels.

I tried to ask someone what happened, but they just pushed me, nearly knocking me down.

Just then, my phone rang. It was Travis.

"Where are you now?"

"In the restroom. What's happening?"

"Get out through the fire escape."

Then I only heard chaotic noise from the phone.

"Travis, Travis!" I called out, but the signal had already cut off.