By the time I woke up, it was almost 9 a.m. I stretched my arm out, finding the space next to me empty, but the bed retained some warmth. It seemed that Atlas had been up for a while.I shook my head, feeling a bit lazy. Staying up late was exhausting.But there was no way around it. Matthew was like settling an old score from a past life. Perhaps I owed him something in a previous existence, and now he was coming to collect the debt.I sighed softly, with a sense of resentment. Then I grabbed my phone and dialed Ryan. After informing him of the situation, he said, "You should go to the hospital. I'm already at the office. Don't worry."I lazily replied, "It's great to have you at the company. Otherwise, I'd be in big trouble.""You're just trying to butter me up," he responded impatiently."In that case, I'll hang up." I teased him. "Focus on your work.""Fine, I’m hanging up." He grumbled, "That damn Matthew is causing trouble! Stupid shit.""I agree,” I chuckled.Ryan had

I didn’t know if he took it to heart, but he stopped crying and fell into deep thought.I was shocked to see him in this state. I wondered if I had been too harsh in what I said. The series of blows he had received were indeed overwhelming for him.Although his actions were infuriating, he was also a vulnerable individual.I eased up a bit, observing his emotions.After a moment, he looked at me. His face remained pale. He seemed much older, and I even doubted if this was the Matthew I used to know, always lively and confident.The person before me now appeared dejected and helpless."Chloe, can I still clear my name? For the projects I supervised, I didn't cut corners or use subpar materials, but for the one in Muborough, I knew nothing about them. It was all Liora framing me." His emotions calmed, and his thoughts became clearer."Then tell the truth to the judge. If you can't explain it the first time, do it a second or third time until you can prove your innocence. That's wh

I nodded earnestly. I knew that only someone who cared for me genuinely could say such things."I know. After helping him clear his name this time, I will step back completely. I just told him not to seek help from me anymore. I have no obligation to always speak up for him. I’ve decided to stop my involvement no matter what.”Lauren looked at me. "You said that yourself. Remember it. Some things should be done for those who deserve them. But Matthew..."Lauren sneered, shook her head, and said, "He’s not worth it, nor does he deserve it. He and Atlas are worlds apart. There's no comparison, not considering their wealth or status. Just based on character, he is a complete loser. “If you ever feel soft-hearted again, think about all the nonsense he did to you before."I chuckled. I felt like a child she was protecting, and what Lauren said was indeed true.Adrian called me again, informing me that he had applied for a trial postponement. This would give us some extra time to gath

I took a step forward, still scrutinizing her. "Threaten you? I usually don’t bother to do anything like that. I just can't stand your attitude."She looked at me menacingly. "Do you think you're really that lucky? Or do you believe Atlas can protect you?"I looked into her eyes, smiling disdainfully. "He's doing a pretty good job protecting me right now. Anyone who dares harm me will face dire consequences. You've seen more than one example. I wouldn't mind if you tried your luck. Fate will tell who will go to hell"I grinned mischievously. "You were too ambitious. You’ve committed too many sins, and your time is running out."My words angered her, and she raised a hand to slap me.Unfortunately for her, she was shorter than me, and I was prepared. I deftly blocked her and retaliated with a fierce slap of my own.I didn't know if it hurt her, but my hand was numb.After the slap, I looked at her, playfully saying, "How was that? Did it hurt? If you dare lay a hand on me again,

Poppy had an interesting expression on her face as she said that. Her smile seemed both playful and sly as she looked at me.I knew exactly what was going on. She was trying to play mind games and engage in subtle rivalry with me.I understood what she was thinking. Her words had a bitter undertone to them despite her radiant smile. The true purpose of her visit was likely not as simple as it appeared. She had come all this way to see me, and I didn’t believe it was just a casual visit, especially since we didn’t really know each other. What she said seemed like a joke between friends, but it could also be a provocation between rivals in love. It even sounded like she was gloating.I remained indifferent, pretending not to care. After all, Poppy was no friend of mine.I casually took a sip of the coffee and calmly responded, "Well, Ms. Poppy, it depends on where you heard that."My nonchalant demeanor left Poppy a little perplexed, and I could sense her frustration. I refused to g