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Novel Catalog
Chapter_67
Drifting Away
As expected, Matthew didn’t return that night. Meanwhile, I tossed and turned, unable to sleep, my mind racing with thoughts of everything that had transpired. The following morning, Ivanna called with some news. She told me that Melanie had caught Matthew and Lauren in the act. I felt a twisted mix of emotions—delighted by the turn of events, but also bitter and sad. Despite my plans moving forward, I couldn’t find joy in it.
After washing up and getting dressed, I headed to the office. But the moment I arrived, I realized Matthew wasn’t at the company building. The painful truth hit me like a punch to the gut—Matthew had already slipped away, even without my interference. However, I refused to give up on my revenge. I needed to make him regret what he’d done.
I instructed Johnson to call Matthew and tell him to come to work, claiming there was a rumor that ATL Empire was only choosing two companies for the project. I wanted him to think that Tanum Corporation and another company were out of the running. Matthew’s ambitions would push him to act, and I knew he’d be desperate to secure the collaboration with ATL Empire.
Meanwhile, photos began circulating on the internet, accompanied by scandalous headlines: “CEO and An Unknown Woman Caught Spending the Night in a Hotel—Woman Hospitalized From Brawl.” Though the pictures were blurry, they showed a clearly intimate scene followed by a fight. Melanie had played her part well, causing a scene as planned. Reporters had already gathered in the Galar Tower lobby, ready to make the story public.
Matthew arrived at the office an hour later, trying to slip in unnoticed, but I was ready. I timed it perfectly and stormed into his office, clutching my phone in my hand. As I entered, I saw Matthew slumped dejectedly on the couch, with Johnson by his side. I could tell Johnson had already played his part in whatever act Matthew had planned.
When Matthew saw me burst into the room, he stood up quickly, stammering, “H—Honey, I…”
I couldn’t help but notice the bloody scratches on his face, and for the first time, I saw him look pathetic. This was a side of him I had never seen before. “Matthew, do you have something to tell me?” I asked, staring him down. Though I was only acting, I finally had the chance to release all the anger and frustration I’d been holding inside.
Matthew signaled for Johnson to leave, and he wisely stepped out. As soon as the door closed, Matthew moved closer to embrace me, but I immediately pushed him away. Without hesitation, I slammed my phone onto the table, showing him the explicit images on my screen.
His eyes widened in panic. “Honey, I did all that just for show! I’ve always been loyal to you and will forever be loyal—”
“Is this your idea of loyalty?!” I screamed, cutting him off. “Who is that woman?!”
“Honey, calm down,” he said, trying to lower his voice. “We’re at the office, so let’s not make a scene. I can explain.”
“Explain?” I shot back, my patience wearing thin. “Who was that woman? Weren’t you discussing financial matters with her, Matthew? How long are you going to keep lying to me?!”
Matthew hesitated, clearly searching for words. Then he spoke, trying to salvage the situation. “Yes, I lied this time. I went out with Lauren last night, but she got me drunk and insisted on sending me to a hotel to rest. I didn’t think we would… you know. She’s been interested in me for quite some time. I’ve been avoiding her, but I had to meet her last night to secure a proper asset declaration from the bank!”
I stared at him, the anger building. He continued, “I was determined to secure ATL Empire’s project for our family. Then, I could fulfill my promise to you, to give you the lavish life you deserve. Honey, you have to believe me. I did it all for our future, but I admit I made a mistake.”
I laughed bitterly, tears slipping down my face. Was I acting anymore? Or had the pain truly seeped into my heart? I laughed, not because it was funny, but because he still thought I was a fool—still thought I would believe him after everything.
“Honey, I swear I won’t let you down again,” Matthew pleaded, his voice sincere. “If it weren’t for the alcohol last night, I—I wouldn’t have betrayed you!” His lies dripped off his tongue like honey, and I was left wondering if he truly thought I was that naive.
At that moment, I felt a wave of suppressed anger rise within me. I approached him, my voice cold. “Matthew, do you think I’m an idiot? Tell me, who was the one who caught you?”
The truth was right in front of me, and no matter how many lies he spun, I couldn’t ignore it anymore.