Chapter 25
Lia, what did Mr. Ford say?” Back at the Secretary’s Office, Phoebe and Millie surrounded Lia.
From now on, reject all of Ms. Norton’s calls unless it’s official business, Lia replied.
“Got it. Lia, what’s wrong? Your face is so red Phoebe looked upat Lia, who was taller than her, puzzled.
“It’s nothing. Get back to work, everyone. Lia returned to her desk, her mind still on what he had just said.
“He must have been joking, right?” Lia thought.
That evening, Lia met up with Cora at a cafe.
Since Coby and she always went home together, she let him know that she was seeing a friend today.
[With who?] Coby asked.
[Cora. Mr. Ford, don’t drink too much.] Lia knew he had an important social engagement that night. He usually went to these events with Owen.
The corners of Coby’s lips involuntarily curved up. (Tll send someone to take you.]
[No need. I’ll go back on my own.] Lia wasn’t sure how long her talk with Cora would last.
Driver will be waiting downstairs at the company.] Coby insisted
[Alright, thank you.] Since he had already arranged it, Lin didn’t feel it was appropriate to refuse further.
[Don’t wait up for me tonight. Just go to bed.] Coby added.
Okay.] Lia replied.
However, whenever he had social engagements, no matter how late, she always waited for him to come home before sleeping.
At seven, Lia met up
ip with Cora in a restaurant
“Lia, you’ve been looking more and more beautiful these days, Cora said, giving her best friend a big hug.
“You too, Coral Lia returned the compliment.
“But honestly, your mood really does affect your vibe. Back then you barely smiled, and even when you did, it wasn’t genuine. Ever since leaving the Allen family, you’ve been a whole new person,” said Cora.
They had been friends for many years and knew each other inside out
Cora admired Lia’s calm and serene demeanor, so different from her own bubbly personality. Just standing quietly, Lia could make others feel at ease.
Lia couldn’t deny it. Being with Coby felt so effortless. He gave her the respect and equality she needed. He was completely different from lysac.
“Honestly, Coby had feelings for you the moment you two met. It’s hard not to question his intentions, said Cora. “I remember a time when everyone in the class was saying Coby hard you. Has he had a crush on you since then?”
At first, Cora had thought Coby liked men, but after chatting with Lia, she changed her mind.
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How could two people just lut it off after meeting on the street? Based on her experience, he must be after so
“No, we’re just…” Lia paused, thinking of how to explain without making her friend misunderstand.
Just what?” Cora asked, full of curiosity.
“Maybe it’s just a coincidence,” said Lia.
It was perhaps the right person at the right time. He wanted to get married, and she needed the money to free herself from Olive. It was a mutually beneficial arrangement,
“That’s just too convenient. Whatever the case, leaving the Allen family was the right choice. Issac didn’t know how to appreciate you. Let him regret it.” Cora had no fondiness for Issac
“It doesn’t matter anymore.” Lia didn’t want any more entanglements with Issac. “Cora, let’s talk about you.”
“I’m the same as always–nothing’s changed,” Cora replied,
“Oh, who do we have here? Isn’t it Coral” A sweet, syrupy voice rang out. Cora turned to see who it was and rolled her eyes. “Speak of the devil
Jenny Eve flicked her hair and cast a disdainful glance at the woman sitting across from Cora. “This must be Lia, huh? I heard you were dumped by Issac?”
“What nonsense are you spouting?” Cora shouted.
Jenny had been their high school classmate. Coming from a wealthy family, she often bullied others. She and Cora had always been at odds
“Cora, it’s fine. Lia said, pulling her friend’s hand. She had expected this day ever since she resigned.
“Nonsense? Everyone’s talking about it. Lia, know your place. Did you really think Issac was someone you could reach?” Jenny had dated Issar before and couldn’t stand Lia. No matter where they went, Issac always brought Lia along
Though it seemed like he was bossing her around, there could still be something going on between them.
She had even argued with Issac over it a few times, eventually leading to their breakup. And yet, Lia had still stayed by his side.
Now, hearing that Lia had been dumped, Jenny was overjoyed.
“Everyone knows you were just Issac’s maid. What’s the point of sticking around him? You were always going to get dumped in the end.” Jenny’s words dripped with mockery, as if she were finally venting her long–held frustration.
Lia didn’t want to argue but wasn’t going to let herself be belittled either. “I resigned on my own. There was than a professional relationship between Issac and me. I’m not you. You were the one who actually got dumped.”
nothing more
“You… Jenny’s face turned sour, Issac had indeed dumped her shortly after they started dating
Although they’d stayed in touch, it had always been a sore spot for her.)
Failing to mock Lia and having her own past thrown back in her face, Jenny was furious.
[you
have no ties to Issac, then surely you won’t be afraid to come to the class reunion this year.” Jenny taunted.
“Who says we are afraid? Cora snapped.
That was exactly what Jenny had been waiting for. ‘Lia, are you saying you’ll come to this Friday’s reunion? Or are you
scared?
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Lia hadn’t planned to go, but it was clear Jenny was trying to provoke them. Not going would only give her satisfaction.
“I never said I wouldn’t go, Lia responded.
“Yeah, what’s there to be afraid of?” Cora chimed in.
“Alright, I’ll hold you to that, Jenny sneered.
The class reunion was the perfect stage for her plan to humiliate them in front of everyone.
Just imagining it made Jenny’s heart fill with glee as she walked .
Cora shot her a glare. Lia, ignore her. Let’s keep going.”
“Cora, thank you for always standing up for me,” said Lia.
Whether it was in the past or now, she’s always been there for her. Lia truly appreciated it
“Come on, we re besties! Back then, you couldn’t fight back. But now, it’s different. You’ve left the Allen family. You don’t owe them anything. Cora also wanted to use the class reunion to show everyone that they were not easy to mess with.
Yeah, that’s exactly why I want to go. Lia agreed.
Even if she bumped into Issac, there was nothing to be afraid of
“So, should we let Coby know about this?” Corn asked.
Lia remembered there was a charity event that day. He might not have the time.
“I’m not sure if he’ll go. Besides, our relationship isn’t public yet. We’ll see on Friday, she answered.
“Alright.” Cora nodded.
After finishing their meal and watching a movie, Lia and Cora came home. Coby was already lying in bed, reading a book.
“Why are you back so late?” He put the book down and looked at her.
Lia had thought he’d be the one coming home late, but it turned out to be her instead.
“I watched a movie with Cora,” she replied.
Coby patted the edge of the bed, and Lia obediently walked over
“Watched a movie? Leaving your husband all alone?” Coby complained.
There was a hint of jealousy in his tone. “Would you like to watch one with me as well? Lia asked.
His eyes crinkled with a smile. “Let’s go this weekend”
Lia didn’t overthink it. “Okay, I’ll go wash up first.
“Mm. He watched her retreating figure and wondered what move they should see.
When Lia came out after her shower, he was playing on his phone. She climbed quietly to the inner side of the bed and lay
down.
Just as she got under the covers, a large hand slid around her neck, pulling her into his arms.
“Going to sleep already?” His deep, magnetic voice in the quiet night sent shivers down her spine.
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“Don’t worry about me. You can keep playing on your phone.” Lis murmured, unconsciously scooting further in
“Let’s sleep together.” Coby lifted her chin, making her look at him with her wide, watery eyes.
“About what we talked about this afternoon. His slow voice trailed off as he studied her flushed face.
Is he waiting for me to respond?‘ Lia suddenly felt parched, her cheeks turning an unnatural shade of red.
“I was just ki..” Coby couldn’t finish his sentence.
“I’ll only wear them at home, okay?” Lia nervously said.
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Swallowing the rest of his words, Coby chuckled and patted her head. “You’d agree to anything. Aren’t you worried I’d take advantage of you!”
“Well. I’ve got nothing,” Lia replied with a light smile.
“Says who?” His hands roamed every inch of her body, making her tremble uncontrollably.
“You have this. I like this as well. And there, right there… His raspy voice echoed in her ears.
Unable to escape, Lia stammered, “Can we just sleep?”
“Alright.” He was surprisingly agreeable, pulling the blanket over both of them.
The lights were still on. Neither of them were going to sleep anytime soon.
Sunshine came through the window,
“Leaving already?” Jenny lay naked on the bed, watching the man getting dressed.
She hadn’t expected him to actually agree to meet her..
“We’re not in that kind of relationship, said the man.
“I know already. By the way, Issac, are you going to the class reunion?” Jenny asked.
Jenny learned from before that this man didn’t like being controlled. So she kept it casual.
“Not interested.” He had no patience for such pointless social gatherings now.
Jenny got out of bed and slowly walked toward the man, her soft body leaning against him.
“Why aren’t you going this year?” She was determined to have him go with her and put those two women in their place.
“No time, Issac answered.
“Fine. Yesterday, I ran into Lia and Cora,” said Jenny.
Lia?” Issac frowned deeply.
“Oh, silly me, I almost forgot. Lia’s one of your admirers. She teased, tracing her finger across his chest.
He grabbed her land impatiently. And then
Jenny chuckled slyly. “They said they’re going to the reunion. Li even claimed she’s been living her best life since dumping
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Issac’s grip tightened slightly.
“Ouch! Issac, you’re hurting me Jenny said, her pretty face contenting in pain..
“Lia wouldn’t say something like that.” Issac knew that woman well. Even if she left, she wouldn’t badmouth the Allen family.
He has given her plenty of time, but Lia never came looking for him. That was what Issar couldn’t tolerate the most.
“She said she’s attending the reunion and that she only decided she suddenly leave you? Jenny wanted to figure it out too. Why
go because you weren’t going. I was just curious–why did
he get so worked up whenever Lia was mentioned?
“She’s going to the reunion? Issac asked.
“Yes, she replied.
Issac released Jenny’s hand and continued putting on his pants.
Was she spreading rumors to test him, or was it for another reason
Anyway, he was going to hd out what she was up to.”
Meanwhile at Ford Group, Nancy came uninvited. Normally, she wouldn’t have been allowed near the secretary’s department, but because the Norton family had business ties with the Ford Group and her father was on good terms with Coby’s dad, she went straight to the chairman’s office.
“Ms. Norton, please have some coffee,” said Phoebe,
Nancy frowned. “I don’t want coffee. I’m here to see Mr. Ford.
Phoebe maintained a smile. “Ms. Norton, Mr. Ford is in a meeting. We’ll notify you as soon as it’s over.”
“Are you people trying to stop me from dating him? Nancy was tipset.
Ever since she was a child, Nancy had always been the center of attention. She was used to getting what she wanted effortlessly except for Coby.
Ever since seeing him at a party, his aloof attitude had infuriated her. She wasn’t pursuing him out of affection. It was all about her ego
No one had ever ignored her before. Even Issac had turned into doting admirer. Nancy was confident she could win
anyone over.
“Ms. Norton, I’m sorry. We’re just following orders,” said Phoebe
Nancy knew they wouldn’t dare act on their own. She sipped the coffee but immediately frowned.
“What is this coffee? It’s terrible. Bring me something better!” She had to show them who was in charge; otherwise, they’d think she was easy to push around.
“Of course, Ms. Norton. Please wait a moment. Phoebe quickly took the coffee away.
Phoebe, she doesn’t like it Seeing Phoebe walk out helplessly. Millie asked what was going on
“No Is Lia still in the meeting room?” asked Phorbe
As the secretary, Lia was responsible for reconding the meeting.
des li must’ve been tough for you, Millie said sympathetically
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Phoebe brought a fresh cup of coffee back, and fortunately, Nancy didn’t make things harder this time–after all, she wasn’t on her home turf, and Coby wasn’t like her usual admirers.
Eventually, the meeting ended, and a group of people walked out of the conference room looking serious.
Lia had just returned to her office when Phoebe and Millie reported in, “Lia, Ms. Norton is here. She’s in the reception room and made quite a fuss.”
“How did Ms. Norton get up here?” asked Lia.
Without specific instructions, the front desk wouldn’t have let her through
Susan said it was approved by the president
Since it involved the president, it couldn’t be taken lightly.
Lia was heading to the reception room, but before she could take a few steps, Nancy impatiently walked out.
Mr. Ford still not
She stopped and looked closely. “Ms. Phillips, what are you doing here?”
“Ms. Norton, it’s been a while.” Lia nodded respectfully.
“Issac still hasn’t given up?” Just seeing her reminded Nancy of Issac.
“Ms. Norton, there’s a misunderstanding. I’m currently working for Ford Group. I just finished a meeting,” said Lia.
“You’re working under Coby? Even better. I need to see him now
Lia hesitated, recalling the warning she received earlier, but Nancy was approved by the president himself.
“Ms. Phillips, are you giving me a hard time because I rejected Issac? I don’t care. I must see Mr. Ford today.”
She didn’t want to waste a trip here and be laughed at if word got out.
“Who wants to see me?” C
Coby asked as he walked out of the office.
The moment Nancy saw him, she ran over joyfully, “Coby, it’s me. Nancy. Do you remember me?”
“Ms. Norton” His eyes shifted to Lia standing nearby without even glancing at Nancy.
“I came specifically to see you, by invitation, Nancy said with a shy smile.
“By invitation?” Coby asked.
Lia felt a chill under his gaze and wanted to explain it wasn’t herarrangement, but the timing didn’t seem right.
“Yes, Coby. Can we talk privately?” asked Nancy.
“Ms. Phillips, what do you think?” Cuby looked at Lia.
“Mer Laa was taken aback by the question. She quickly composed herself and gave an honest answer. ‘Mr. Ford doesn’t have any appointments coming up
The man’s eyes narrowed slightly, lus hand clenched tightly behind his back. “To my office” “Alright Nancy followed him with a beaming smile. She knew one could resist her charm.
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After they left. Millie couldn’t help but comment. “Why do I feel like Mr. Ford is a bit upset?”
“He really is Phoebe observed.
“You two get back to work. I’ll bring in the coffee, Lia said.
Lia felt a headache coming on. He was clearly misinterpreting things.
In the office. Coby gestured politely. “Please, have a seat, Ms. Norton.”
“Thank you, Coby Nancy batted her eyelashes several times, but it didn’t draw his attention.
“What brings you here?” asked Coby
“You know why she said confidently. She believed someone as sharp as him knew exactly why she was there.
This man was indeed good–looking. She couldn’t stop looking at him.
Nancy had long heard of Coby, but since he was often abroad, they rarely crossed paths.
G
She had already bragged to her girlfriends that she would win over Coby, so she couldn’t leave empty–handed.
“Many men admire you, Ms. Norton. You don’t need one more, he said bluntly.
The smile froze on Nancy’s face. “What do you mean by that?”
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