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CHAPTER 14: STEVEN SUCCESSFULLY FORGED A FRIENDSHIP WITH ETHAN
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2025-03-26 06:14:09
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FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 15: YOU WERE TOO QUICK TO BEFRIEND HIM
matter I intended to discuss with him. I asked why he had not contacted me for two weeks, and he confessed that he had undergone a change of heart. He sought to reconcile our differences and befriend me, and he also apologised for the troubles he had caused," Ethan recounted. "Really? What was your response?" Angela inquired. "I assured him that it was acceptable, that I had forgiven him, and that we could indeed be friends," Ethan replied. "Hmm, just like that? Do you not think you may have been too quick to befriend him?" Angela asked. "What do you mean?" Ethan queried. "I mean, what if he has ulterior motives? For all I know, he does not like you," Angela clarified. "I do not believe that to be the case, as he seemed genuinely different, which is uncharacteristic of him," Ethan responded. "Hmm, just exercise caution with him; that is all I advise," Angela suggested. "Certainly, I shall," Ethan replied. "May I ask, is that the reason for your happiness?" Angela questioned.
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offer my assistance. You mention Monday as if you are unaware that it is one of the busiest days at work. If I am not mistaken, you will likely have even more tasks to complete then. If you do not finish this today, you will face an overwhelming workload come Monday, and I am certain you would prefer to avoid that,” Steven elucidated. Ethan pondered this for a moment. “I also wish for you to complete your work in a timely manner so that you can attend your meeting. Alternatively, let us proceed this way: if I do not type as quickly as I have claimed, you may continue it yourself. All I want to do is help,” Steven suggested. Ethan ultimately agreed, saying, “Very well, you may assist me. However, if you are not as swift as you assert, I will complete the work myself.” With enthusiasm, Steven responded, “Excellent! I understand you have yet to witness my typing skills, so prepare to be amazed.” Ethan observed Steven closely, and indeed, he typed as quickly as he had claimed. One th
Last Updated : 2025-03-26FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 17: RUDE AND ENVIOUS CYNTHIA
Clearing her throat, she stated, “Ethan, I would like you to meet my best friend, Cynthia. And Cynthia, allow me to introduce you to the love of my life, Ethan.” “It is a pleasure to meet you, Cynthia; I have heard so much about you,” Ethan said, extending his hand for a handshake. Cynthia turned her gaze away and ignored him, prompting Angela to give her a signal before she finally shook Ethan's hand. Cynthia then responded, “The pleasure is all mine. I have heard much about you as well; my best friend Angela speaks of you constantly.” Angela interjected as she offered Ethan a seat. Ethan settled comfortably into the chair. “What may I offer you?” Angela inquired. “Nothing, please do not trouble yourself; I am perfectly fine,” Ethan replied. “Very well, if that is your wish,” Angela said. For a span of five minutes, silence enveloped the room until Angela finally broke it by saying, “Darling, it feels so good for you to finally meet my best friend Cynthia, right?” “Yes, and
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"Even if I did, she would not be concerned. To be frank, she truly cares for you," Cynthia stated. "Oh my goodness, and I share that sentiment for her," Ethan remarked, gazing at Angela, who smiled back at him with evident joy. As their conversation continued, Angela joined in, and they shared laughter, engaged in light-hearted chatter, and even played a game, which proved to be quite enjoyable. "I must confess, you are delightful company," Cynthia admitted. "I am aware of that," Ethan replied playfully. Ethan had intended to take the ladies out, but Angela quickly objected. "It has been quite a long day; shall we go out for dinner?" Ethan suggested. "No, that will not be necessary, and please do not inquire further," Angela concluded firmly. "Very well," Ethan responded. After spending an additional hour conversing with Angela and Cynthia, he decided it was time to take his leave. "I believe it is time for me to depart," Ethan proposed. "Oh, why is that?" Angela
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to work, I would likely have encountered traffic, which could have prevented me from being here. I did not wish to disappoint you," Alfie explained. Ethan smiled and said, "Ah, my friend, you are indeed a true companion. I am grateful that you chose not to let me down." "It is nothing, my friend. Allow me to assist you," Alfie insisted. "Very well, thank you," Ethan expressed his gratitude. Alfie then aided Ethan with the housework, and once they completed their tasks, they took a moment to rest. "Your girlfriend must be quite special for you to have cleaned your house so meticulously," Alfie remarked. "Haha, I would say you are correct," Ethan laughed in response. "By the way, is this the same Angela you mentioned previously that we are expecting today?" Alfie asked. "Yes, that is indeed her. Why do you inquire?" Ethan questioned. "Nothing in particular; I merely wanted to confirm. What time is she scheduled to arrive, as evening has already approached?" Alfie inquired. "Do
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as he is welcome here at any time,” Ethan explained. "Everything you have said about him is accurate; he behaved exactly as you anticipated, suggesting that you must have known him for quite some time," Angela inferred. "Indeed, I have known him since childhood, which I must say is quite a considerable time. He is like a brother to me, as I mentioned before. In any case, thank you for visiting my home today as promised; once again, you are most welcome,” Ethan expressed. "We had an agreement; you fulfilled your part, and now it is time for me to fulfil mine," Angela stated. Ethan nodded and replied, “It is indeed a pleasure to have you here.” “I am grateful; by the way, you have a lovely home,” Angela complimented. “Thank you very much,” Ethan replied. “I should be on my way now; it is getting late,” Angela insisted as she stood up. “Please, do not go. I would prefer you to stay. My home is also your home, and you are welcome here at any time. However, I do ask one favour,” Et
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replied, "It is acceptable. However, had you inquired before making assumptions, you would have discovered that she is my girlfriend, but it is fine." "Thank you for accepting my apology; I owe you one. How about we share a bottle of beer tonight?" Steven suggested cheerfully. "Noted, but I must inform you that I am not one that drinks excessively," Ethan replied. "Hehehehe, just a bottle or two," Steven chuckled. "Very well, let us see how it goes. For now, if you are free, I would greatly appreciate your assistance with typing since you are quite proficient, allowing me to attend to other matters," Ethan requested. This was the opportunity Steven had been anticipating, and he readily accepted the offer. "Certainly, I am free. If typing for you helps you to forget about today's incident, I am willing to assist until the end of the workday," Steven teased as he took a seat. "You are quite amusing, Steven. However, if it is not too much trouble, could you begin typing now while
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to your seniority as a banker; otherwise, I would have given you a taste of your own medicine as well,” Anna retorted. Upon hearing this, Ethan seized her arm tightly, his frustration mounting as he shouted, “Oh, just try me and see! I dare you!” “Ethan, let go; you are hurting me!” Anna screamed. Ethan then released her arm, pushed her aside, and walked away. Anna swiftly went to report Ethan to the bank manager. “Sir, I experienced a minor issue with one of our cleaners, Angela, and for some reason, Ethan confronted me,” Anna reported. “Is that so? What transpired that led to your altercation with Angela this morning?” the bank manager inquired. “Well, she accidentally spilled dirt on me and failed to apologise,” Anna explained. “Indeed, and what action did you take when you realised she would not apologise?” the bank manager questioned. “I yelled at her,” Anna admitted. “And while you were yelling at her, did she respond in any way?” the bank manager probed. “Not at all,
Last Updated : 2025-03-27
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FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 84: I AM WEARY OF RESTING
to take naps regularly, as you require it now more than ever. You have noticeably lost weight," Alfie suggested.Ethan's expression grew somber as he replied, "Alfie, how can I possibly relax when my peers are out there striving? I cannot reconcile the fact that I have nothing to contribute; I feel utterly useless at this moment.""Hmm, Ethan, it is essential that you practice self-compassion. You have previously conveyed to me that life is filled with challenges, and you have also encouraged me to persevere regardless of the circumstances I encounter. I have heeded your counsel and am currently in a better place, so let go of the past and concentrate on your future. I firmly believe that God has significant plans for you," Alfie advised.Ethan nodded and inhaled deeply.Alfie then discreetly signalled to Angela, who approached Ethan to offer her guidance."My dear, it is imperative that you take it easy on yourself; your life does not culminate here. Let the past remain in the past,
FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 83: HAD I KNOWN IS THE BROTHER OF MR. LATE
as I was not vigilant and ignored your advice about exercising caution with Steven. Look at the situation it has led me to; had I known is the brother of Mr. Late," Ethan lamented. "Calm down, my love. Such is life, and you cannot alter what has already transpired; rather, you must learn from it and exercise caution in the future. Alfie was indeed correct in his note when he stated that you require rest and a soothing massage. So, lie down and allow me to massage you; by the time I finish, you will feel much better," Angela instructed. Ethan smiled, and as Angela began to massage him, he soon drifted off to sleep. Ethan slumbered soundly until evening, remaining asleep when Alfie returned. "Indeed, he must have received an exceptional massage from my massage team," Alfie remarked to himself, before gently patting Ethan, which roused him from his slumber. "Woah, Alfie, you're back! Welcome," Ethan exclaimed. "Yes, I have returned. Thank you," Alfie expressed his gratitude. "When
FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 82: THEY SENT A FEMALE
Although Steven anticipated the bank manager's regret, he was taken aback by his admission. The unexpected display of contrition brought him a sense of satisfaction, prompting him to say, "Thank you very much, sir; I truly appreciate it." "Is there anything else you wish to discuss?" the bank manager inquires. "Absolutely not, sir," Steven replies. "In that case, you may take your leave," the bank manager instructs. Steven exits the bank manager's office with a smile. "Hmm, did he just express guilt? How intriguing; he possesses a heart, yet he remains unwilling to promote me. We shall see how this unfolds," Steven muses to himself. Conversely, the massage team arrived, it consisted of one female and one male member. Regrettably, only the female, Cassandra, attended, and she knocked on the door. "Knock! knock!" Cassandra announced. "Yes, who is it?" Ethan inquired. "My name is Cassandra, and I am here to provide a massage for Sir Ethan," Cassandra replied. "Oh, it i
FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 81: YOU MADE ETHAN LOSE HIS JOB, DON’T FACE THE SAME FATE
deserved more than just an insult,” Alfie recounted. “I suspected as much; given her response to me, I could tell she had bad manners. I was beginning to wonder how you became involved with such an ill-mannered individual without anyone, including me, your best friend, being aware of it,” Ethan stated. “I have repeatedly asked her to keep her distance from me, yet I have no idea why she continues to stalk me. Well, I am grateful you did not disclose my whereabouts to her. By the way, did you eventually visit Harper's place?” Alfie inquired. “No, I did not feel well enough to go out again, so I opted to rest. However, I will make that trip tomorrow after you have gone to work,” Ethan declared. “Very well, thank you. I shall see you later. I must quickly have my lunch so that I can rest, as I have had a particularly exhausting day at work,” Alfie remarked while eating. Ethan spent the night contemplating why the woman named Vera had regarded him with such disdain, as if he were des
FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 80: WHAT! MY GIRLFRIEND!
to divulge his secret to facilitate your promotion?" "I genuinely do not know, but I will continue to press the matter; I am not one to give up easily," Steven replied. "It will be alright," Susan reassured him. Meanwhile, Ethan reflected, "So, after all that Steven has put me through, he still has the audacity to call and inquire about my promotion secrets, expecting me to assist in his promotions." Ethan then went downstairs and informed Alfie that Steven had once again contacted him regarding any secrets pertaining to his promotion. "Why does he persist in posing such absurd questions to you?" Alfie asked. "Honestly, I have no idea what leads him to believe I possess any secret. This marks the second time he has asked such an infuriating question," Ethan replied. "Are you certain he is managing well at work?" Alfie inquired. "Not particularly. He mentioned encountering difficulties with the bank manager, as the manager promoted a junior colleague in his stead. He confronted
FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 79: STEVEN OVERLOOKED THE NOTION THAT “LIFE IS NOT A BED OF ROSES”
Steven remained silent, his breathing heavy. He clenched his jaw and restrained his right hand with his left, suppressing the urge to strike the manager, as he was overwhelmed with the desire to confront him physically. "Leave my office this instant, before I lose my temper. I do not wish to continue this conversation," the bank manager insisted. Taking a deep breath, Steven departed from the bank manager's office, a mischievous smile tugging at his lips. "Let us see how he copes with the knowledge that he unjustly sacked an innocent individual without conducting a thorough investigation, all in the name of preventing a loss of business. Foolish manager," Steven reflected to himself. Upon returning to his office, he pondered, "I cannot comprehend the situation; it has been three months since Ethan was sacked, and I remain in my previous position, while someone less deserving has been promoted. Despite the bank manager's animosity towards me, I must still convince Ethan to reveal h
FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 78: I WORK AS AN ELEPHANT YET RECEIVE THE REWARDS OF AN ANT
that your girlfriend Angela confided in you about her spy,” Harper elucidated.“What are you suggesting?” Ethan asked.“Please do not misunderstand me; I am merely suggesting that the individual responsible for that video of you and Jessica is acquainted with both your girlfriend Angela and Jessica,” Harper reasoned.“Remarkable,” Ethan replied.“It could be anyone or one of her friends; perhaps she was attempting to cover for her, which is why she claimed to have hired someone to spy on you,” Harper hypothesised.“I find myself at a loss for words,” Ethan admitted.“I understand; you ought to be. I was equally speechless the day I realised that Mirabel/Jessica, or whatever name she chooses to use, was not genuine. Thankfully, you did not succumb to her deceptions,” Harper expressed.“What else do you know about her?” Ethan inquired.“Rumours suggest that people employ her to carry out illicit activities for a fee,” Harper stated.Alfie interjected, “Forgive me, but why do you still h
FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 77: WHAT A COINCIDENCE!
a potential partner. I have nothing of substance to offer her," Ethan explained. Alfie then cleared his throat and stated, "To be candid, Ethan, I concur with your perspective. A relationship devoid of financial stability is likely to wither over time, unless one's partner possesses a deep-seated belief in them and a strong conviction that they will eventually recover." "Regardless, as I mentioned earlier, I do not trust her, and I am uncertain who sent her my way; thus, I shall refrain from pursuing any relationship with her," Ethan declared. During their conversation, Harper was absentmindedly stroking his beard before interjecting, "Ethan, this Jessica took you to her apartment, did she not?" "Yes, she did. I mentioned that earlier, but why do you ask?" Ethan retorted. "What was her apartment like?" Harper inquired further. "Her apartment was truly stunning and filled with many luxurious items. At a certain point, I felt overwhelmed by its opulence, yet I had to leave," Ethan
FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 76: IT IS TOO LATE, I HAVE ALREADY INFORMED HER OF MY UNEMPLOYMENT
not yet aware that I have discovered he was the one who framed me,” Ethan replied. Alfie appeared perplexed. “I am not clear on this; have you ever been kidnapped?” Alfie questioned. “Haha, no, that is not what I meant. What I intended to convey is that her narrative mirrored mine in terms of being framed. She recounted her story in such a way as to persuade me to reveal that I had identified who framed me, but I did not succumb to her ploy,” Ethan chuckled as he explained. “It is prudent to exercise caution in your interactions with others, as you cannot be certain who may be opposed to you or who might be plotting something sinister,” Alfie advised. “Certainly, since I uncovered the identity of my adversary, I have been exceedingly wary of how I engage with others,” Ethan acknowledged. “That is wise. By the way, have you heard from Harper since his last visit?” Alfie inquired. “Not particularly. I intend to call him later or perhaps visit him around noon,” Ethan replied. As
