LOGINShare
CHAPTER 18: FIRST IMPRESSION MATTERS
Last Updated:
2025-03-26 06:14:41
Related chapters
FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 19: A NICE AND KIND FRIEND LIKE ALFIE
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
Last Updated : 2025-03-26FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 20: STEVEN FAKES AN APOLOGY TO SECURE HIS MISCHIEVOUS PLAN
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
Last Updated : 2025-03-26FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 21: MY INSTINCTS DO NOT TRUST HIM
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
Last Updated : 2025-03-27FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 22: THE DISRESPECTFUL ANNA
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 : 2025-03-27FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 23: YOU ARE NOW THE OWNER OF YOUR OWN BUSINESS
maturity. Therefore, relax; you have accomplished the most significant task, which is to confront Anna. Moreover, the entire staff is opposed to Anna for her disrespectful behaviour towards Angela," Steven clarified. Ethan took a deep breath and smiled. "Thank you." As Steven and Ethan continued their conversation, Steven felt pleased with their camaraderie, as he was eager to set his plans in motion. However, he recognised that acting hastily could render him the prime suspect, so he decided to heed his sister's advice and proceed with caution. After finishing work, Ethan returned home and found Angela asleep. "It appears she has been crying," Ethan remarked softly. He gently kissed her, causing her to awaken and embrace him. "Welcome home, my love," Angela said. "Thank you, my love. How are you this evening?" Ethan inquired. "I am well. I was lost in thought and then fell asleep," Angela replied. "Hmm, I trust you were not crying?" Ethan quickly asked. "Not at al
Last Updated : 2025-03-27FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 24: USE WHAT YOU HAVE TO GET WHAT YOU WANT
about the source of his happiness. “I have been observing you for some time and felt compelled to ask what the secret is,” Steven requested. “What secret?” Ethan asked quickly. “The secret to your happiness,” Steven replied. Ethan felt compelled to fabricate a response, aware that Steven disapproved of Angela and their relationship. “Oh, that? It is nothing; I am simply feeling grateful for life,” Ethan lied. “By the way, it has been a month since I last saw your girlfriend Angela after that incident; has she stopped working?” Steven asked. “Haha, she has resigned and is now employed elsewhere,” Ethan laughed and replied. “Alright, I see you are on your computer this afternoon,” Steven remarked. “Yes, I am. Would you like to assist me?” Ethan inquired. “That would be wonderful,” Steven responded enthusiastically. Steven aided him for the third time, and although his eyes remained on Ethan, he had grown accustomed to Steven’s assistance, which alleviated his stress. Wheneve
Last Updated : 2025-03-27FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 25: AN EXQUISITE DESIGNER BOUTIQUE
And why are you seated in this exquisite designer boutique?" Cynthia asked, her curiosity piqued. "Haha! Calm down, my dear friend. I will address all your inquiries, but first, please take a seat," Angela replied with laughter. "Alright, but please begin speaking, as I am eager to learn about this surprise," Cynthia insisted. "Of course. May I offer you a drink?" Angela inquired. "I shall not consume anything until you reveal this surprise," Cynthia insisted. "Very well, I will respond to your questions. First and foremost, I am not engaged; the surprise I referred to on the phone is that this beautiful designer boutique, as you described it, is mine," Angela explained with a smile. Cynthia could scarcely believe her ears and was taken aback. She asked, "Oh my goodness! Are you saying that this stunning designer boutique I admired upon entering belongs to you?" "Yes, that is precisely what I just declared," Angela joyfully confirmed. Cynthia was filled with curiosity, as if s
Last Updated : 2025-03-28FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 26: YOU CAN’T JEOPARDISE THIS HAPPINESS
such an idea? You know me far too well to make such assumptions," Angela replied. "Well, all I am saying is that you have changed. Ever since you began dating Ethan, you have become different and less accessible. What do you expect me to think? Have you forgotten the saying, 'how you dress is how you are addressed'? You have changed, so I momentarily overlooked the fact that I know you so well," Cynthia explained. "Hmm, well, I cannot move in with a man who is not yet my husband. Moreover, it does not sound appealing, and Ethan would not permit me to move in with him; he prefers that I visit for two or three days and then leave. He has previously stated that he would not deny me my independence by keeping me confined in his home without marriage," Angela clarified. "You made a statement that piqued my interest, and I would like to pose a question," Cynthia said. "Very well, I am listening," Angela encouraged. "You mentioned that he prefers you to stay for two or three days a
Last Updated : 2025-03-28
Latest chapter
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
