Zoey wasn’t surprised. Amanda seemed to be head over heels for Laurence. Even when Laurence had harshly rebuked her during the banquet that night, Amanda hadn’t gotten angry.“That’s pretty nice actually. We now have less work to do,” Anne mused naively. “At first, I thought that she was just someone with a big, dumb crush, but she’s already good friends with all the big names here in our department.”Zoey was startled. “You’re not pulling my leg, are you?”Anne shook her head. “Nope, I’m being serious. She’s good at pulling the right strings and then fanning the embers that started before sitting back to admire her handiwork.”Zoey went quiet. “We better stay away from her,” she said.Zoey and Anne were still safe from the chaos. They had better keep away while they still could, for Amanda was someone they could not afford to be enemies with. If Zoey ever got on Amanda’s bad side, she would have to be the one apologizing. Laurence would not shield her.“I feel that Miss Hartner
Zoey and the rest of her coworkers listened on. Zoey even poured herself a cup of tea before returning to her seat to listen.The only extra detail about this that Zoey knew but the others didn’t was that Sarah didn’t have any scars on her back from the whipping. Those bloody wounds had long since healed, and you couldn’t detect that they had been there. Her back was back to being as smooth as before. However, the tiny scar on her shoulder still hadn’t disappeared. That little fingernail-sized scar was probably the only relic of that story left.Amanda was still furious, angry tears about to stream down her face. She definitely looked down on Sarah—did this nouveau rich girl think that she was worth anything?And yet, it seemed that Sarah was far smarter than Amanda was. She was cunning, calculative, good at stirring the pot, and a master actress. The average person would never be able to win against her.Amanda held back her tears. “If you loved her so much, why didn’t you divorce
Zoey had no words. Anne’s imagination was just too powerful.“Maybe Mr. Scott’s mega possessive of his wife, so he doesn’t want anyone else to set her eyes on her. Maybe that’s why he chose to hide his marriage,” Anne rambled on.Zoey wanted to laugh. “No way, right?”“Miss Jenner, you don’t read rich CEO romance novels, do you?” Anne asked solemnly.Zoey shook her head. “I never read them.”Anne sighed. “I really wish I could see who his wife is.” If this mysterious wife was able to win when there were many other rich young women around, then she must be ridiculously beautiful.Zoey fell into deep thought. “Didn’t you hear Miss Hartner though? They’re about to divorce. She probably won’t be his wife for much longer.”Anne had been so engrossed in thinking romantic thoughts that she had forgotten about that detail. “I got it,” she said solemnly after the gears in her head whirred.Zoey wondered what thought had gotten stuck in Anne’s mind now. Anne turned to look at her and d
Laurence’s words weren’t considered harsh. That was just how he was. His words were even more unkind once he was actually displeased. Although Zoey was already used to this treatment, she still felt uncomfortable hearing that, but she ignored it, not wanting to argue with him.Laurence’s cold smile disappeared, and he returned to his usual impassive expression. He pressed his lips together and stared at her. “There’s always a reason for everything,” he said softly.Zoey had already thought of her resignation speech before she knocked on the door. Her wish to move out wasn’t an impulsive decision. Their relationship had been worsening over the last month, and all those ugly feelings that she shouldn’t be having had the time to fester. She didn’t want to be so stuck in her love for him until she lost her own sense of self-respect. She didn’t want to end up in pain and cling to him even when she left. She had to slowly uproot him from her heart. No longer could she continue to stay in
Laurence was certainly determined to make Zoey suffer. In just half a day, Zoey was both physically and mentally exhausted. She wasn’t pleased with any of the properties that the agent had introduced to her. Even though she had dramatically increased her budget, she still hadn’t found one that she liked.Zoey wondered if she had been insulated from society for so long that she had lost touch with the market—she was just looking for a one-bedroom apartment, but all of them so far would eat up close to half of her monthly salary. It wasn’t like Zoey couldn’t part with the money either. She just thought it was excessively expensive.When she returned home at night, Zoey peeled off her high heels. She was so tired that she wanted nothing more than to lie on the couch and rest, but then Laurence came out of his study to see her staring at her phone. “Have you found a place yet?” he asked, feigning concern.There was no way Zoey was going to admit that things weren’t going smoothly, so
Zoey didn’t know how to respond, so she made up a ridiculous excuse. That way, Laurence would mistakenly think that she had feelings for Tristan. In truth, she and Tristan had barely exchanged any words. His friends were also less than friendly whenever they met, all of them looking down on Zoey because they thought of her as a gold digger who would do anything for money.Laurence was quiet. After a long while, he finally looked at her. His voice was cold and flat as he spoke, “Do you like Tristan?” There was a slight pause in between his words, but he enunciated everything clearly.There was no way for Zoey to back down. From the day she announced that she wanted to make a business deal with him, there was no more turning back. So, why not play into the misunderstanding? It wasn’t like it would affect things much.Laurence wouldn’t care who she crushed on. Zoey thought for a moment. “A little, I guess,” she said, sounding a little too fake.Laurence seemed to only be mildly curious a
Zoey felt as if a storm was heading her way. She could only grip the person in front of her to the point her knuckles went white. At the same time, she forced herself not to make any noise.When Laurence noticed how her bottom lip had gone white because she was biting it, he bit her earlobe, commanding softly, “Moan for me.”However, Zoey remained biting down on her lip stubbornly and did her best not to let out any sounds no matter what. Laurence seemed to have let out a soft chuckle before he started using more force in his actions.He was venting, but at the same time, he didn’t seem to be doing that.Zoey wasn’t used to the increased force. She gripped the bedsheets beneath her and bit Laurence when she couldn’t withstand the intensified pleasure.It was as though Laurence wasn’t afraid of pain. Even after blood seeped out of the bite mark left by Zoey on his shoulder, he felt it was nothing but a sting.When the woman woke up the next day, she regretted having bitten Laurenc
Sarah reminded Laurence over and over that he had once loved her, as that was the only weapon she had against him.She knew it wasn’t easy for Laurence to feel for a woman. Emotionless people were scarier than Casanovas once they developed feelings for someone. It wasn’t her first time regretting her actions of putting Laurence’s love for her and his willingness to do anything for her in a deadly bet. Sarah did end up losing the bet, after all.Two measly years could change many things.Sarah despised Lady Fate’s treatment of her. She was the only person in the world cursed with a sickly body.She wouldn’t have to go overseas to receive treatment if it weren’t for her health. That way, Zoey would never have the chance to get close to Laurence.Laurence gave Sarah a meaningful look, but it was lost on her. He stated, “I’ve already arranged for the best doctor to care for you in the hospital. You can always return for the operation if you change your mind.”Sarah didn’t bother re
Ryan had a reason for barging into the room. He thought he had seen something he shouldn't have.He had witnessed Zoey's relationship with his brother over the past few years. He hadn't thought so many things would happen between them when they got married.In the end, Laurence fell for her.The high and mighty guy had willingly become the loser for that woman.Zoey could tell from Ryan's reaction that he had misunderstood. Without bothering to explain, she walked straight out of the office.Laurence ignored Ryan, too. He treated Ryan as if he didn't exist and strode out the door after Zoey. Ryan was left alone in the office, dumbfounded.Laurence's assistant greeted him politely. "Are you here for ..."Ryan was still in a daze. He snapped to his senses and said, "I'm here to see my brother!""Mr. Scott just left.""I saw that.""Then, is there anything else I can do for you?"Ryan turned around to leave but returned halfway. He put his arm around the assistant's shoulder as
Zoey could feel the gazes on her as she stepped into the office. There were hardly any familiar faces left in the office.She secretly sighed in relief. She would have felt awkward and at a loss if she had to face the inquisitive gazes of acquaintances.Laurence held Zoey's hand, and she had no choice but to let him do as he pleased. She couldn't resist him.They entered Laurence's office. His office looked cold and plain, just like he was.Zoey noticed he was still grabbing her wrist. She took a deep breath and asked, "Where should I sit?"Perhaps surprised by her sudden cooperative attitude, Laurence raised an eyebrow. After a pause, he kindly reminded her, "The door is locked."Without a key, the door couldn't be opened from the inside.Zoey tried to pull her wrist away. "Got it."Laurence watched her sit on the sofa, and he relaxed slightly. He asked politely, "Would you like something to drink?"Zoey was momentarily lost in thought. She replied, "Warm water will do"Laur
Zoey was composed. She didn't seem worried about Laurence investigating her past in Novarvia. But deep down, she wasn't confident.Laurence had long lost any moral boundaries. Despite knowing she was married, he showed no concern about interfering in her marriage. He would likely become even more audacious and unrestrained if he discovered that her marriage was fake.Just the thought of it gave Zoey a headache. She never thought getting rid of someone would be so difficult, even if they held a certain position of power. Shaking him off became increasingly challenging.Lost in her contemplation, Zoey failed to notice the driver had changed direction. When she finally realized, the car was parked at the entrance of the Scott Group.Zoey pondered briefly. She thought the driver was sending Laurence off. She waited patiently and remained seated in the car.The man beside her calmly looked at her and raised an eyebrow. "Aren't you getting out?"Zoey furrowed her brows. "Why should I?"
Sarah always seemed like she was thriving. Looking radiant, she hooked arms with the man beside her. She no longer looked as worn as she had a few months ago.Laurence was acquainted with the man beside her. His gaze was indifferent, showing neither surprise nor much emotion. Firmly grabbing Zoey's hands, Laurence wouldn't let her leave his side.Laurence had no intention of greeting Sarah or engaging with William. He held Zoey's hand, seemingly aware she didn't want to deal with them either. He turned his face to her and said, "Let's go."Zoey didn't refuse. They left quietly.This time, Sarah didn't stop Zoey. She usually tried provoking her.Once they were far away, Zoey immediately shook off Laurence's hand. He saw her furrowed brows and the undisguised disgust in her eyes. She must have hated Sarah a lot. She didn't even want to see her.Laurence explained, "I didn't know she would be here today."Zoey ignored him and walked ahead. The man behind her suddenly circled he
Zoey had no idea whether she was acting out of spite or being stubborn, but she arrived at the restaurant as promised. The restaurant had a private courtyard that offered great privacy. She didn't want to cause the person she was meeting any trouble. Neil's wife was once Zoey's client. Both parties were pleased with the business transaction. Zoey didn't like socializing, but she was out of alternatives. She forced herself to befriend Neil's wife. She had something to ask of Neil because her passport application had been dragging on without any progress. Zoey didn't want to lose control of her emotions again. She could still keep her cool if she stayed away from Laurence. To her surprise, Laurence had found out what she had been secretly up to. It was like he had installed a bug on her. She was horrified. "I've heard a lot of good things about you, Ms. Jenner." "You're too kind, Mr. Jackson." Neil was nicer than she expected. He didn't act superior or avoid the topic. Inst
Zoey ended the phone call. Without having to ask, Zoey knew what was going on when she saw Laurence. Needless to say, Laurence had taken the liberty to take the morning off for her. She couldn't be bothered to be angry. Instead, she felt numb as it had happened too many times before. Zoey looked down at her changed pajamas and turned to the man by the bed. She asked, "Where are my clothes?" Laurence met her gaze. He didn't feel embarrassed at all. "They were in the wash. They are in the dryer now." Zoey lifted the bed covers and stepped onto the carpet. She made a beeline for the walk-in closet, which was filled with many clothes she hadn't taken with her when she'd left years ago. She picked an outfit and put it on. Laurence was still in the bedroom when she walked out of the walk-in closet. He put on his tie and looked over at her. She glanced at him and said, "You should've woken me up last night." Laurence approached her. He was tall and looked sharp in his suit, with
Zoey was fast asleep. She thought she was dreaming when someone lifted her up. Her body clock over the last few days had been regular. She was going to bed early. Now, she couldn't keep her eyes open. Maybe she went back to sleep because she didn't sense any danger.Laurence hooked his arm behind Zoey's knees in a cradle and pulled her arm over his neck to secure her from falling. She mumbled in her sleep. He guessed that she was dreaming.Laurence couldn't hear what she was saying. He leaned in with his ear near her lips, but her mumbling stopped.The chauffeur, dedicated to his job, was on standby outside. Seeing his employer in the distance, he opened the door respectfully.Laurence carried Zoey into the car. The chauffeur closed the car door and glanced again at the woman in his employer's arms from the rear-view mirror. She looked familiar, but he didn't want to make any assumptions. "Where to, sir?" The chauffeur couldn't read his employer's mind, so he was careful not to
The bar wasn't too far from the restaurant. It was less than a ten-minute drive away. Laurence refused to let go of Zoey's wrist. He was bold to show off their closeness even though it was inappropriate. The others could hardly take their eyes off the couple. It was drama in the flesh. If they remembered correctly, Zoey had denied their relationship online two days before. She had even announced her marriage to someone else to set the record straight. What was going on? They had a hunch about the situation, judging by the resistance on Zoey's face. Maybe her ex-husband wouldn't leave her alone. The man seemed relentless in his pursuit. Nevertheless, it was not their business to get involved. At the end of the day, it was between Zoey and Laurence. Everybody quieted down and sobered up. The group caught a cab to the destination. Laurence shamelessly invited himself to join the group, and no one objected, not even politely. They weren't fools. They wouldn't offend the man for
Zoey felt a tingling sensation along her ear. It felt as if she had been electrocuted. Laurence's tone was half-joking, but there was seriousness behind it. He was ready to tell on her to her husband the moment she nodded. Zoey had lost her patience with him a long time ago. She couldn't help but snap back every time. She looked up. Her face was small. She was about to tell him to get lost when the man took the chance to deepen the kiss. He squeezed her chin, forcing her to part her lips to let him in. Zoey was pinned against the wall. His scorching breath took hers away. She was trapped like prey in a snare. The more she struggled, the tighter his grip became.Laurence didn't stop with a brief kiss. He didn't give Zoey room to breathe, and she could feel her limbs going weak. Her tongue was going numb. The woman opened her mouth, gasping for air. She hung onto his collar to stop herself from going limp. The man was always greedy. He could never get enough of her. Zoey had