Ch. 101..110

Chapter 101

When Michael said the last utterance, his voice became icy cold, and his eyes blazed with anger.

Inexplicably, my heart clenched. Our relationship had now ended, but I didn't feel happy at all for some reason.

Do we truly have nothing to do with each other anymore from now on?

At that thought, anguish enveloped me.

My eyes shimmered, whereupon I quickly swung open the car door and alighted from the car.

Michael's gaze was still locked on me, his jet-black eyes as sharp as an eagle's. Perturbed by his stare, I hastily left.

When I returned to the office, I wanted to use work to mask my distracted state. For some unbeknownst reason to me, my emotions were a jumbled mess, and I even seemed a touch reluctant to end the relationship.

After the lunch break, my colleagues returned to the office one after another. And right then, Michael strode toward his office as well.

The moment he entered my line of sight, panic struck me. I hastily dipped my head, not daring to look at him. However, he ignored me entirely and stalked into his office without a single glance at me. It was as though he didn't even see me.

His apathy had me suddenly feeling that we were strangers that had never known each other.

Oh well, it looks like I've overestimated my importance to him. We've just ended our relationship, and I'm now a stranger to him in the blink of an eye. Perhaps he'll even forget that I've ever existed after some time.

Because of him, an inexplicable turmoil brewed within me. Disappointment flooded me as I stole a peek at the closed door of the CEO's office, and I wasn't in the mood to work at all.

The entire day passed in a blur. When it was time to get off work, I again took a gander at Michael's office, only to see that the door was still closed. He hadn't been out the entire afternoon, and I merely heard him occasionally making calls to make work arrangements.

I then packed up and went downstairs. As soon as I stepped out of the office building, I caught sight of Yuval a near distance away.

It was already late when I came out, and most of my colleagues had already left. As there were few people when I came out, I spotted him at a single glance.

At the sight of him, a sliver of aversion crept into me. But on second thought, I could now respond to his feelings openly since I had nothing to do with Michael anymore. Following that line of thought, I hurried over to him.

“Why are you here? And why didn't you give me a call before coming?”

Walking over to him, I flashed him an awkward smile. Although I no longer had anything to do with Michael, something still seemed lacking when I was with him.

“When I asked you out two days ago, you said you'd gone back to your hometown. I was afraid that you'd have another reason to demur today, so I came to ambush you at your office building. You don't have any prior engagements tonight, do you?”

When Yuval saw me, he strode over to me with a smile and took my hand.

Sensing the warmth of his hand, there was a brief second when I wanted to retract mine, but I surreptitiously stifled the urge.

“Something seems amiss with you recently, Anna. Am I not doing well enough?”

Perhaps Yuval sensed my aversion, for he frowned slightly and looked at me with disappointment written all over his face.

“No, you're doing great. It's my problem, so I apologize.”

I knew it was my issue that I had been declining his dates lately. If I were in his shoes, I would definitely harbor suspicions as well. Honestly speaking, he matched me well in all aspects and was a suitable candidate for marriage.

Alas, I knew that I wasn't interested in him romantically. Deep within me, I regarded him as more of a friend instead.

I looked at him in confliction, the words stuck in my throat.

Seemingly having seen perceived my struggle, Yuval didn't say anything further. He opened the car

door and ushered me in.

I walked to his side to climb into his car. But at that precise moment, I noticed his gaze fixated on something a stone's throw away. The smile on his face had also disappeared without a trace.

Perplexed, I looked in the direction of his gaze. When I caught sight of Michael's handsome countenance, the expression on my face froze, and my heart raced. Hmm? Why is he here? Is he here to look for me?

At that thought, my heart went into overdrive. I was seized by the urge to dash over to him.

Strangely enough, I wracked my brains to end my relationship with him when we were friends with benefits, yet now that we were truly nothing to each other anymore, I was reluctant to part with him. I was truly conflicted right then, not quite certain about my feelings toward him.

Michael strode toward us. Seeing that, my heart hammered wildly as I stared at him unblinkingly.

Just when I thought that he was coming over to seek me out, he merely cast me an indifferent glance before leaving. From beginning to end, he didn't say a single word to me.

As I stared at his retreating back, the disappointment within me snowballed for some inexplicable reason. Ah well, it seems that he's serious about ending our relationship this time.

After he had left, Yuval turned to look at me, his smile once again restored on his face.

“Let's get in the car, Anna. He has already left,” he urged softly.

Beyond a shadow of a doubt, I knew that he must be suspicious right then.

When I had gotten in, he started the car. As the car cruised along the road, a thick tension hung in the air.

Recalling Michael's dispassionate expression when he brushed past me, indescribable anguish welled within me.

“May I ask you a question, Anna?”

Yuval finally broke the silence after a long time had passed. His words, however, felt like a weight on my chest.

“Sure. What is it?”

As I gazed at his profile, I could clearly see the suspicion in his eyes.

“Are you and Michael Shaw...”

Yuval didn't finish his utterance, but I could more or less guess what he wanted to ask. Even after all this while, he was still skeptical about my relationship with Michael.

“There's nothing between me and Michael Shaw. Even if there were something between us in the past, there never will be in the future,” I enunciated seriously after a brief silence while looking at him.

Yuval's expression relaxed significantly after hearing my answer. Only then did I realize that he had been suspicious about my relationship with Michael from the very beginning.

“I'm glad to hear that. Anna, I'm serious about you, so I hope you understand my intentions,” Yuval asserted earnestly.

He looked right into my eyes with a smile on his face.

 

Chapter 102

At that moment, my heart pounded wildly. I was naturally aware of Yuval's intentions, and I should be happy upon hearing his declaration of sorts. Yet, for some reason, I didn't feel happy at all.

“I know. And thank you for choosing to believe in me.”

He was a smart man, so I was certain that he would definitely be able to surmise that my relationship with Michael wasn't as simple as that of a superior and subordinate when I had said as much.

Nonetheless, he was very considerate of me and said nary a word despite having surmised it. If it were any other man, it would likely have been a source of contention.

Subsequently, I turned to gaze out the window at the scenery outside. My heart and mind were presently flooded with images and thoughts of Michael. When we had an illicit relationship, I was determined to avoid him. But now that we were truly nothing to each other anymore, I felt empty, as though I had lost something important.

After having dinner with Yuval, he proposed going shopping. However, I was in low spirits just after ending things with Michael today, so I declined.

Since things had ended between me and Michael, I didn't go back to Birchwood. After all, I naturally couldn't continue staying in his house now that we no longer had anything to do with each other. Instead, I went to Natalie's house.

Yuval brought the car to a stop in front of Natalie's community gate, and I opened the car door to alight from the car.

“Wait a moment, Anna...”

I had opened the door, but before I climbed out of the car, Yuval's voice drifted over.

Straightening, I looked at him in puzzlement and queried softly, “Is something the matter?”

Yuval stared into my eyes without saying anything. His body, however, was slowly leaning toward me. Panicked, I instinctively wanted to dodge, but I kept reminding myself that I was aiming for marriage with him, so I definitely couldn't evade it.

Clutching the hem of my clothes with both hands, I remained still. By then, he was already very close to me, our lips a mere inch away from each other.

I nervously closed my eyes, not daring to look at his face anymore for fear that I inevitably would dodge. But after waiting for a long time, his kiss didn't fall on my lips. Instead, he pecked me on the forehead.

Sensing the warmth on my forehead, my heart jolted. All at once, relief suffused me.

When his lips had finally left, I opened my eyes. My gaze turned evasive as awkwardness engulfed me about our current level of intimacy.

“Go on home. Next time, I hope you won't be resistant toward me.”

With a faint smile on his elegant countenance, Yuval grasped my hands that were clutching the hem of my clothes. His voice remained as gentle as ever.

No doubt, he was a very perceptive person to notice that subtle tell of mine. Indeed, it was proof that he was incredibly shrewd and considerate.

He knew that I was averse to it, so he kissed me on the forehead instead of the lips.

Gratitude overwhelmed me at once. Ah, he's truly a gentleman who never coerces me into something I abhor, unlike Michael.

When the thought of Michael flashed across my mind once again, panic gripped me. Ugh! He seems to have been playing on a loop in my mind for the entire day! I've truly been bewitched!

Abruptly yanking my hands back, I stared at Yuval with a frantic look in my eyes. For a moment, I didn't know how to answer him. The fact that Michael kept slipping into my mind had me feeling extremely irritable.

I inhaled deeply and tried my best to dispel him from my thoughts. I knew that I had to divert my attention if I wanted to be rid of Michael's dominion over me. As long as my focus was on another man, I naturally wouldn't think of him anymore.

As that thought occurred to me, I swiftly leaned forward and planted a kiss on Yuval's lips. Then, I beat a hasty retreat.

That was the first time I ever initiated a kiss with a man. The feeling of kissing Yuval was wholly different from kissing Michael. While the warm sensation remained the same, my heart didn't race when I kissed the former. Instead, nerves and panic assaulted me.

Caught off guard, Yuval was stunned when I kissed him. Only when I had gone a fair distance away did he finally snap back to his senses. A smile again blossomed on his face, and his eyes were filled with tenderness as he gazed at my back.

My heart galloped wildly though it wasn't from desire but panic. Even when I arrived back at Natalie's house, I remained flustered.

Anyway, diverting my attention seemed to be a highly effective method, for I was now overwhelmed with panic. My mind was filled with images of me kissing Yuval, so there was no room for me to think about Michael at all.

It looks like this is an indeed opportune method when I think of him again. But I wonder what Yuval thinks of me. Would he now think that I'm a woman with loose morals?

“Why are you here, Anna? Didn't you say you won't be coming over to keep me company tonight?”

Natalie gaped at me in surprise when I opened the door.

“Nat, I might have to intrude on your hospitality for a few days. I'll move out when I find a place.”

Walking over to Natalie, I flashed her an embarrassed smile. I didn't forget that I had previously moved out of her house.

“What's all this talk about moving out? Are you still mad at me? I know I said some hurtful things because of John back then, but I'm really remorseful now. You can stay here however long you want. I promise that I'll never again ask you to move out.”

Perhaps the fact that I moved out back then left an indelible mark on Natalie, for she looked at me with guilt written all over her face and apologized profusely.

“What are you saying? How could I possibly be mad at you? Back then, I was the one who impulsively said that I'd move out. It had nothing to do with you, so you don't have to feel so guilty.”

That matter had nothing whatsoever to do with Natalie. I was the one who insisted on moving out, so I harbored no grudge against her.

“Anna, thank you for being by my side now and consoling me endlessly. Without you here, I probably would've ended my life by jumping off a building.”

While saying that in a choked voice, Natalie hugged me.

“Hey, hey, what nonsense are you spouting? You won't, and don't you dare ever think of doing that! Nothing can push you so far when you're the ever-optimistic and cheerful Natalie Xavier! It's that scumbag's loss, so just let him wallow in regret!”

I didn't want to hear such pessimistic remarks from her, so I immediately interrupted her as soon as her words fell.

“Exactly! I, Natalie Xavier, am smart and beautiful. Tons of men are waiting in line to marry me, so I'm not going to languid in sorrow for a man who betrayed me!” Natalie declared, plopping down on the couch in the living room.

Then, she reached out and snagged a big apple, taking a huge bite out of it. That was precisely her usual carefree attitude.

 

Chapter 103

Right then, Natalie appeared no different from before. Nonetheless, I knew that she was merely putting on a brave front, concealing the anguish within her.

“That's right! You're stunningly beautiful with tons of suitors pursuing you, so anyone you choose will be far better than that scumbag!”

Sitting down beside her, I draped an arm over her neck and echoed her sentiments. I knew that she was now gradually getting over her breakup.

Well, it's a good thing that I've ended things with Michael. I can keep her company throughout this period with peace of mind without worrying about her all the time.

After staying the night at her house, I again bumped into Michael when I went to the office the next day. I thought he would at least greet me, but he ignored me entirely without even sparing me a glance.

At that, I frowned slightly. As I watched him head to the office, a sliver of disappointment slithered into me.

When I had settled myself at my table, my gaze kept returning to Michael's office. Chagrin swamped me. What exactly does he take me for? Even if we no longer have anything to do with each other, our relationship is still that of a superior and subordinate in the office, so there's nothing wrong with greeting me, is there?

Millie, who sat across from me, seemed to have noticed my preoccupied state. She rapped on my table with curiosity etched on her face. “Anna, did you notice that Mr. Shaw has been in a foul mood ever since yesterday noon?”

Her comment struck panic in me. Don't tell me she has discovered something?

“Has he been in a foul mood?” I asked mildly, feigning a nonchalant chuckle.

“Didn't you notice that he has been wearing a grim expression ever since yesterday noon? Besides, he rejected several proposals from the design department and reprimanded them all severely,” Millie murmured with a nosy look on her face after cautiously casting a glance at Michael's office.

Hearing that, I couldn't help wondering whether those changes in him had something to do with me. After all, it was yesterday noon that I told him of my decision.

“Perhaps he encountered a snag in his work. As you know, he's now aiming to monopolize the advertising industry. While it's not impossible, it won't be a bed of roses either,” I replied in an awkward tone.

My gaze became all the more flustered as I was now certain that Michael's foul mood definitely had something to do with me. At that moment, I couldn't quite tell my feelings exactly.

“Who knows? Anyway, we've got to be careful since he's in a foul mood these days.”

Flinching slightly, Millie again stole a peek at Michael's office. Then, she lowered her head and started on her work.

Her words earlier plunged me into turmoil. I couldn't quite tell my exact emotions right then, but it felt as though I was inexplicably happy upon learning that Michael was in a foul mood because of me.

After a final glance at his office, I buried my head in my work. But while I was glancing through documents, he occupied all the space in my mind. At some point in time, he had actually wielded such great power over me.

“Anna Garcia, I want to see you in my office!”

A terse and frosty voice pierced the air while I was lost in thoughts; it was Michael.

He stood by his office, his cold gaze pinned on me.

In a flash, I snapped back to reality. When I locked gazes with his profound eyes that resembled whirlpools, my heart pounded wildly. Don't tell me he's raking up old grievances with me, settling the score for what happened yesterday?

My emotions were a chaotic mess. Still, I dragged my feet to his office. My colleagues around me had also noticed his foul attitude toward me, so some regarded me with worry while others with glee.

When I reached his office, he was sitting at his table, looking at a document in his hand.

“How may I assist you, Mr. Shaw?”

I lowered my head after a single glance at his handsome countenance. I dared not look at him anymore, for my backbone inevitably weakened whenever I saw his face.

Thud! Without warning, Michael slammed the document in his hand on the table. In the next moment, he pinned me with eyes blazing with anger.

My heart jolted, and stark panic overwhelmed me as a sense of foreboding rose.

“Anna Garcia, this is the advertising proposal you submitted to me? You've got years of working experience, yet this is the design you came up with?”

Michael pointed at the document on the table, his eyes radiating fury as he stared at me.

“Is there something wrong with it, Mr. Shaw?”

Directing my gaze in the direction of his finger, I was greeted by the sight of the design proposal I submitted earlier in the morning. Never had I thought that it would be rejected so quickly.

“Such a design is a dime a dozen in advertisements. Do you think such a promotional advertisement will still work when it's already such a cliche?”

Michael's voice was thundering and colored with reproach. He stalked toward me with huge strides, the fury raging in his eyes so intense that it was as though he wanted to reduce me to ashes.

“But I think such an advertising proposal can better reflect the product's characteristics and the people's necessities. While many products boast of benefits that far exceed the product's value itself, I think those gimmicks are entirely unnecessary.”

Distress inundated me at his callous attitude. For some reason, a sense of misery and anguish lodged within me. Despite our numerous arguments in the past, he had never spoken to me in such a thundering voice.

Could it be that his attitude toward me has also changed following the change in our relationship?

“So, you're saying that you're focused on the authenticity of the product? I have no problems with that, but this proposal of yours isn't novel. Take it back and redo it!” Michael ordered coldly.

He picked up the document on the table and tossed it at me.

From beginning to end, he looked at me with indifference in his eyes. Other than that, there was no other emotion to be discerned.

Tears swam in my eyes. My eyes turned red-rimmed, but I forcefully held my tears back.

Ah, he's truly a ruthless man! We've just ended our relationship, and he's now tearing into me at the office. I should really learn to be blasé like him. If only I could be as indifferent as he is, I wouldn't be so upset right now.

“Why are you still spacing out here? Get on with your work!”

Upon noticing that I stood rooted to the spot without leaving, Michael abruptly whirled around, his eyes chilly without a hint of warmth.

“Understood. I'll go and amend it right away,” I muttered glumly.

Lifting my head a fraction, I sniffled.

Michael was a very perceptive person, so he naturally didn't fail to discern my emotions. His gaze flickered when I said that, and it didn't seem as cold as before. Nonetheless, he kept silent.

Many eyes swung at me when I exited the CEO's office, most people looking at me with sympathy on their faces.

 

Chapter 104

Michael's office was previously used for other purposes, so the soundproofing wasn't all that great. For that reason, everyone heard our conversation. They most likely heard him hauling me over the coals loud and clear earlier.

I returned to my table morosely, still saddened by his attitude earlier.

“Are you okay, Anna?” Millie inquired in concern from across me upon seeing my despondency.

Sniffling, I feigned a nonchalant expression to mask the sorrow within me.

“I'm fine.”

I flashed Millie a forced smile, but even I myself found it utterly unconvincing.

“Gosh, Mr. Shaw was really blowing things out of proportion! It was just a design proposal, no? Was it really necessary for him to blow a gasket?” Millie muttered after stealing a glance at Michael's office.

“Alright, that's enough. You'd better hurry up with your work if you've got time to grumble. Otherwise, you might be the next unlucky person.”

While I no longer had anything to do with Michael, I was still perturbed to hear her speaking ill of him.

At my reminder, fear seemingly struck Millie. She hastily buried her head in work and dared not say a single word further.

With my mind a chaotic mess, I was simply hard-pressed to come up with any design proposal. I had to

submit the new design proposal to Michael before the end of the workday, yet I was at sixes and sevens with no inspiration at all.

I spent the entire day zoning out in front of the computer, my thoughts a thousand miles away.

In the blink of an eye, evening fell, and it was about time to get off work. All my colleagues had already started packing up, but my computer screen was still blank. I hadn't written even a single word.

“Anna, we're off work now. Let's leave together.”

After Millie was done tidying up her table, she invited me to get off work with her.

“You go ahead. I've got to stay for a bit since I'm not done with the proposal yet.”

Subsequently, I cast a glance at Michael's office. He was still in the office now, so I would definitely get it from him tomorrow if I didn't submit the design proposal today.

It wasn't that I was a total novice at being reprimanded by my superior, but it felt particularly agonizing when it came from Michael. Thus, I decided to stay and work overtime to avoid angering him again when I came to work tomorrow. I must submit the new design proposal to him today!

Patting my face, I forced myself to concentrate and started on my work. In the next two hours, I sat in front of the computer and worked on the new design.

When I was finally done with the new design proposal, I printed it out. Then, I walked over to Michael's office and knocked on the door.

“Come in.”

Michael's indifferent voice sounded from inside. Upon hearing his voice, my heart inevitably skipped a beat.

Pushing open the door, I entered his office. He was still sitting at his table, perusing documents. His serious expression as he worked was particularly beguiling. Indeed, the saying that men were most attractive when they were at work was no lie.

“What is it?”

I said nothing after stepping in, merely staring at him. Only when he looked up at me did I swiftly snap back to my senses.

“Um... This is the new design proposal I did today. Please have a look at it, Mr. Shaw.”

Gathering my wits about me, I hastily placed the document in my hand on his table.

Michael threw me a look with mixed emotions before picking up the document and scanning through it.

“Redo!”

That was the only crude and concise word from Michael, cutting straight to the point.

“But why? I've already amended it according to your suggestions earlier.”

Hearing the word “redo,” my heart lodged in my throat. I regarded him with chagrin in my eyes. What the hell? I've wracked my brains the entire day for this design proposal! Besides, I've also made the appropriate amendments according to his requirements. Yet, he merely gave me a one-worded response?

“It's not acceptable because I said so! Anna Garcia, is this your attitude in working? All employees at Joyful Success are required to strive for perfection. If you can't even withstand this bit of pressure, then just resign!”

As soon as his words fell, my eyes instantly filled with tears. By then, I could already tell that he was deliberately making life difficult for me. I initially thought we could have an amicable parting, but I never expected him to be such a petty man that he would target me at work.

“Mr. Shaw, I think we should be keeping our personal affairs separate from work. You can tell me frankly if you have any complaints against me, and we'll resolve it in private. However, your action at present makes it obvious that you're abusing your power to avenge a personal grudge,” I declared coldly.

I stared at him while suppressing the tears that threatened to fall at any moment.

I knew that a man like Michael had certainly never been rejected by any woman. Therefore, my decision yesterday was definitely a huge blow to his ego. It was only natural that he was pissed off, but I would never accept it if he were to pick on me in matters of work.

“Abusing my power to avenge a personal grudge? Anna Garcia, you think too highly of yourself. I, Michael Shaw, can have any woman I want. You're just a former friend with benefits. Do you think there is a need for me to make life difficult for you?”

Michael sneered in derision as though he had heard a ludicrous joke. Getting to his feet, he sauntered over to me and looked down his nose into my eyes. At that moment, I could clearly discern the contempt and disdain in his ebony eyes.

His words were like a stab to the heart, every single word twisting the knife deeper.

Well, well... It turns out that I'm only a former friend with benefits to him. Considering his tone, it's clear as day that he no longer cares about me. Or perhaps I'm only good for satiating his physical urges to him.

My eyes burned hotly, and my tears felt as though they were a second away from falling. Likewise, my heart hurt as though someone was crushing it in his palm.

Despite the agony coursing through me, I still feigned a dispassionate expression before him. “Since I'm only a former friend with benefits to you, why do you keep targeting me? Have I done anything wrong?”

“I only rejected your design proposal because there was a problem with your work. Do you think I'm the kind of person who blurs the line between personal and business?”

My words enraged Michael, and the look in his eyes became significantly colder.

“But I feel that this design proposal is already good enough. I used the entire day to come up with this design proposal, so how much more do you want from me?”

Ugh! He's simply making things difficult for me! If this design is handed to our collaboration partner, it'll

definitely be approved. Yet, he's rejecting it time and again. I really can't tell whether he's abusing his power to take his revenge on me.

“I want perfection, not improvisation. Anna Garcia, if that's your attitude, I'd advise you to resign right away!”

Having listened to my words, Michael's gaze turned all the more apathetic though his eyes blazed with anger. Every word out of his mouth pained me even greater.

 

Chapter 105

That was the second time Michael had mentioned me resigning. Could it be that his motive is to goad me into resigning?

I tried my best to hold back my tears. I didn't continue arguing with him but concentrated on composing myself. After a long while, I finally managed to sound calmer.

“I understand. I'll continue amending according to your wishes until you're satisfied with it.”

If that was his grand plan of forcing me to resign, I would never capitulate. No matter how difficult he made things for me, I would definitely do my best to fulfill his requests.

Perhaps my answer pleased him, for he merely threw me a glance without saying anything further.

“I'll be leaving if there's nothing else, Mr. Shaw.”

Not wanting to see him for even a second longer, I made to leave after saying that. Alas, my cell phone rang at that precise moment.

When I saw that it was a call from Yuval, I instantly panicked upon remembering that Michael was still by my side then.

Michael's cold gaze remained locked on me. He was a shrewd person, so he probably knew whose call it was at the expression on my face. I was utterly conflicted, torn between answering the call and otherwise.

In actual fact, I didn't want him to know that I had officially gotten together with Yuval. But recalling his

hurtful words to me just now, I inwardly mused, Why should I care about his feelings when he doesn't care about me at all? So what if I'm dating Yuval? I no longer have anything to do with him now.

At that thought, I answered the call.

“Yuval.”

My address of Yuval had become much more intimate after we made our relationship official. However, the reason I addressed him in such a manner right then was simply to gauge Michael's reaction. I wanted to know what exactly I was to him.

“Are you at home now, Anna? I have a gathering with some friends tonight, so I'd like to bring you along and introduce you to them.”

Yuval's gentle voice drifted out of the other end of the phone. A trace of aversion welled within me upon hearing that he wanted me to meet his friends.

I felt that we weren't so close that we were at the stage of meeting each other's friends. Personally, I didn't want to take things so quickly.

“Um... I'm moving back into Natalie's place today, so I've got to relocate some things. As such, I might not be able to make it tonight. I'll take a rain check, okay?”

I initially wanted to agree since Michael was right in front of me, but for some inexplicable reason, I demurred.

Fortunately, I truly had some things to settle that night. My things were still at Michael's house, so I naturally had to move my things out now that things had ended between us. As for the money I owed him, I would be paying him back slowly.

After my demurral, Yuval was silent for a moment on the other end of the phone before saying, “It's okay. How about I help you move your things today? I'm more suited to do the heavy lifting.”

He was an exceedingly considerate man. In fact, it was probably every woman's dream to have such a gentle and attentive man who would make the ideal husband.

However, my things were still at Michael's house, so I couldn't possibly allow him to tag along. I had tactfully told him about my relationship with Michael yesterday, after all. Hence, he would definitely feel unsettled to collect my things from Michael's place even if he didn't say anything.

“No, it's okay. I don't have much, so I can manage on my own. Besides, you're supposed to have a gathering with your friends tonight, so you'll look bad if you don't show up. Don't worry about me.”

I again declined since I didn't want him to know that I had been staying at Michael's place. We were dating with the goal of marriage, so I didn't want any misunderstandings between us.

“Alright, then. I just knew you were going to turn me down.”

He sounded audibly disappointed, and I knew that I had truly turned him down too many times.

At that moment, I glanced at Michael, only to see that his frosty gaze was fixated on my cell phone. Recalling that I was currently on the phone with Yuval, I became inexplicably flustered.

“How about this? I'll treat you to dinner tomorrow.”

I was initially frantic to hang up, but my temper flared upon remembering the words Michael said earlier. Thus, I couldn't resist flaunting my intimacy with Yuval.

“Okay, I'll be holding you to your word. I'll pick you at your office tomorrow evening after work.”

The moment Yuval heard me asking him out, his dejection vanished without a trace. Instead, he even seemed rather excited.

“Sure. I'll be hanging up, then.”

After saying that, I hung up the phone.

When I hung up the phone, Michael's gaze simultaneously left me. Nevertheless, I could still distinctly sense the coldness radiating from him.

“Your love life is really prolific. You've just ended things with me, but you immediately went to another man in the next instance. Anna Garcia, you're really a tramp through and through!”

Michael pinned me with eyes teeming with contempt, his gaze radiating faint anger and resentment.

Hearing that, both my hands clenched into fists. No one would be happy to be stamped as a tramp, much less by a man like him.

Yes, I'm now officially dating Yuval, but what has it got to do with him? Can I also reproof him as being a womanizer since there are plenty of women around him?

“That has nothing to do with you. Please excuse me if there's nothing else. I'll return you the keys to Birchwood tomorrow.”

Not wanting to bicker with him, I spun on my heels to leave after saying that. I didn't want to say a single word further to him.

As Michael stared at my retreating back, his gaze turned increasingly frosty.

When I left the office, images of Michael continued to flood into my mind. It was as though he had taken residence in my mind, for he kept intruding into my thoughts ever so often since we ended thing between us.

After giving Natalie a call, I hailed a taxi and went to Birchwood. My things were still in his house, so I needed to retrieve them since I hadn't the money to rebuy everything.

Upon arriving at Birchwood, I packed my things. When I was almost done, I seemingly heard the sound of the door opening. All at once, my heart lurched, and I swiftly poked my head out of the bedroom.

I was a timid woman, and night had fallen, so I would definitely be scared out of my mind if a stranger walked in at such a time.

Subsequently, footsteps drifted into my ears. Only when the person entered my line of sight did I breathe a sigh of relief, for it was Michael.

As I wheeled my suitcase out, I looked at him expressionlessly and handed the keys to him.

“Here are the keys to this house. I'm returning them to you now, and rest assured that I didn't make any duplicates.”

 

Chapter 106

Michael merely stared at the keys in my hand without saying anything. I had no inkling of his thoughts at that very moment.

When he didn't take the keys from me after a long time had passed, I placed them on the table. Then, I strode away while wheeling my suitcase behind me.

“Anna Garcia, mark my words, you'll willingly be my woman.”

Michael's tepid voice sounded just when I had reached the door.

Stopping short, I whirled around and gaped at him though I could only see his back. I had no idea what he meant by that statement, and it wasn't my concern anymore.

Suppressing the butterflies fluttering in my stomach, I turned around and left.

Upon returning to Natalie's house, I was greeted by the sight of her cooking dinner. That was the first time she was preparing dinner after her breakup. Hence, I wasn't entirely certain whether she had truly gotten over her breakup or merely putting on a brave front so that I wouldn't worry.

After wheeling my suitcase to the room I previously occupied, I went to the kitchen.

“Anna, there aren't many groceries since I didn't go out in the past few days. So, we'll have to put up with an abysmal fare tonight,” Natalie murmured with apology etched on her face while frying vegetables.

“It's okay. I'm not that hungry tonight anyway, so a simple fare is sufficient. I'll treat you to a feast

tomorrow night!”

Knowing that Natalie was in a bad mood, I planned to treat her to a feast tomorrow and let her vent her negative emotions recently since she was an absolute foodie.

“A feast? What are you treating me to?”

The moment Natalie heard that she was going to have a feast, she instantly perked up. She stared at me with anticipation written all over her face, stilling with the spatula in her hand.

“What do you want to eat?”

My mood improved significantly when I saw her in such high spirits. It looks like she feels better when food is brought into the equation, no matter how heartbroken she is.

“I want to eat seafood! Lobster, especially!”

Natalie didn't hold back with me, answering right away without the slightest hesitation when I asked her what she wanted to eat.

“Okay, I'll treat you to whatever you want to eat tomorrow night!”

It was such a rare sight to see Natalie in a good mood that I was willing to go bankrupt even if she wanted a royal feast.

I breathed much easier now that her zest was back. After having a simple dinner that night, I went back

to my room to sleep.

As I lay on the bed, my mind was filled with images of Michael.

What did he mean by his statement earlier tonight of making me his woman willingly sooner or later? Aren't things over between us? Or could it be that he still hasn't given up and is planning to do something?

As he played on a loop in my mind, I pulled the covers over my head in frustration. Ugh! I don't want to think about him! I have nothing whatsoever to do with him anymore, so whatever he wants to do is none of my business!

Despite my thoughts, I still turned and tossed before finally dozing off past midnight. When I woke up the next morning, dark circles were again prominent under my eyes.

Gazing at my reflection in the mirror with two dark circles plainly visible, I scoffed at myself. Michael doesn't even care about me, yet I'm thinking about him every day. How foolish!

Then, I slapped myself while staring into the mirror. Irately applying some light makeup, I concealed the dark circles under my eyes. Otherwise, others would know that I hadn't slept well last night at a single glance.

As soon as I arrived at the office, I conscientiously started preparing the design proposal. After a day's hard work, I felt that it was perfect. However, Michael again rejected it. This time, I was much smarter and didn't argue with him. I merely returned to my table with the rejected proposal in hand.

There was no use arguing with him since he was the kind of man who was amenable to persuasion but

not coercion. Thus, it would do me no good regardless of how much I argued with him.

Even when the time to get off work came about, I had no new ideas. Honestly speaking, I truly loathed him at that moment, but my hands were tied as he was the boss. At times, the thought of resigning flashed across my mind.

But on second thought, the job didn't come easy. He would only be accomplishing his goal if I were to back down because of his puny attempts at making life difficult for me, and I wasn't that stupid.

Just when it was time to get off work, my cell phone rang. The moment I saw that it was a call from Yuval, I suddenly remembered that I asked him out on a date today in Michael's office yesterday. Alas, it slipped my mind entirely, and I even promised to treat Natalie to a feast.

Recalling my promise to him yesterday, I grew flustered. For a moment, I didn't know what to say when the call was connected.

“Hello, Yuval...”

I sounded rather awkward, my voice colored with guilt after I answered the phone.

“Anna, you're probably off work now, yes? I'm now on my way to your office. I'll arrive soon, but you might have to wait for a bit.”

On the other end of the phone, Yuval sounded as though he was in high spirits. Upon hearing that he would be here soon, the anxiety within me doubled as I didn't quite know how I should tell him about the change in plans. If I were to say that I've changed my mind at this time, he'd definitely think that I'm a person who doesn't keep my word.

“Actually, Yuval, I've also promised Natalie to have dinner with her tonight. Would you mind if she were to join us?” I asked softly.

Then, I waited for his answer with a tinge of guilt.

After all, men despised having someone else being the third wheel during a date.

“Sure! Natalie is your best friend, so I should get to know her better if I truly intend to build a relationship with you.”

Yuval readily agreed without an ounce of hesitation. At that, relief suffused me. I felt particularly relaxed when I was with him because he was a gentleman who never demanded anything that would put me in a tight spot. That was what I loved most about him. I didn't feel burdened when I was with him.

“Okay, I'll give Natalie a call now. Later, we'll go and pick her up together.”

After saying that with a mellow expression on my face, I then hung up the phone.

Aware that Yuval was intentionally considerate of me, I was all the more satisfied with him. Well, being with a man who will tolerate me for the rest of my life is probably true happiness in its simplest sense!

Subsequently, I gave Natalie a call and told her that Yuval would be joining us. Natalie seemed rather thrilled to hear that, perhaps feeling that I would probably get into a steady relationship with him.

When Yuval had picked me up, he then drove me to pick Natalie up. Although I promised to treat

Natalie to a feast, she was well aware that I didn't have much money, considering my current financial state. Thus, she chose a seafood stall.

 

Chapter 107

It was my first time asking Yuval out, so I was rather mortified that we ended up at such a cheap place. However, I truly couldn't afford to go to high-end restaurants.

“I'm sorry that I'm treating you to a meal at such a place,” I murmured in embarrassment while looking at Yuval sheepishly.

“Don't worry about it. I think this is quite a nice place. I used to eat at food stalls with my roommates back when I was in university, and it was particularly gratifying at that time.”

Yuval wore a gentle smile on his face, not at all irked that I was treating him to a meal at such a cheap place.

While I had no idea whether he truly felt that way, I could sense that he was considerate of me. Although we weren't all that close and could even be described as relatively unfamiliar with each other, his seriousness toward our relationship really touched me.

“Mr. Lambert, it's Anna's treat today, but shouldn't it be your turn next? The two of you have known each other for some time now, so shouldn't you bribe me a bit to get into my good books since I'm her best friend?”

Noticing that we were getting along well, Natalie regarded us with a bright smile on her face before shifting her gaze to Yuval.

“Natalie, how could you simply ask him to treat you to a meal? If you want a treat, I'll just treat you again next time.”

I didn't want Yuval to invest too much into our relationship, for I wasn't yet certain that we would truly end up in marriage.

Besides, the expenses were supposed to be borne by both parties during a date, so I couldn't have him spending all the time. I was already feeling bad that he had footed the bill more often than not, so I didn't want Natalie to take the opportunity to get a free meal out of him.

“Hey, hey, are you now saving money on his behalf before the two of you have even gotten married, Anna?” Natalie teased.

She pinned me with a disgruntled look when I nixed her idea before Yuval had even said anything.

When her words fell, I was left without a retort. Oh God, that's not what I meant at all, okay? Gah! She doesn't understand my intentions at all! Can't she see that my relationship with Yuval isn't as intimate as she imagined?

“Sure, no problem. Feel free to order whatever you'd like to eat next time, Ms. Xavier,” Yuval promptly chimed in to smooth things over upon seeing that I was so embarrassed that words eluded me.

Unexpectedly, he seemed to be on cloud nine because of Natalie's remark earlier. Perhaps he, too, thought that I was saving money on his behalf.

Nonetheless, I wasn't planning to clarify things when it would only make things awkward if I were to admit my true thoughts.

I handed the menu to Natalie. She truly went all out, ordering braised prawns and steamed crabs.

Considering the fare, the meal would cost me at least a few hundred.

My heart bled for my wallet, but at the sight of her eating with relish, I didn't mind spending that much as long as she recovered from her heartbreak sooner rather than later.

Yuval seemed to have seen through me, for he threw me an amused look though he said nothing.

I wasn't fond of seafood, so I merely looked on as Natalie devoured the food. Beside me, Yuval didn't eat much either, but I wasn't certain whether he wasn't inclined toward the food or for some other reason.

“Anna, the food here isn't half bad, so let's patronize this place often in the future!” Natalie remarked while peeling a prawn.

“Sure! We'll come again next time since you like the food here.”

Seeing the rare smile on her face, I now felt that the few hundred was truly worth spending.

Why are you not eating, Mr. Lambert? Do you not like the food?” Natalie asked with a puzzled frown when she looked over to Yuval and saw that he wasn't eating much.

I was also curious about that, but I was embarrassed to ask such a question.

“No, I'm just not that hungry. Eat more since you like the food so much.”

Yuval always had a faint smile on his face at all times.

“If the food isn't to your liking, I'll treat you to a meal elsewhere next time.”

After working for the entire day, one's appetite was at its peak at night. Thus, saying that he wasn't all that hungry was evidently an excuse. In my opinion, he was probably wasn't all that fond of seafood like me.

If I hadn't promised Natalie last night, I definitely wouldn't be treating him to a meal at such a place.

“It'll be my treat next time. How could I possibly let you foot the bill?”

Yuval didn't decline, but he seemed rather ill at ease about me paying. Perhaps he felt that it was only natural for the man to pay when eating out.

I was just about to say something else when his cell phone rang at that exact moment. Thus, I swallowed the words on the tip of my tongue.

Taking out the cell phone from his pocket, Yuval glanced at the caller ID. Then, he stood up and murmured, “I'm sorry, but I have to take this call.”

I nodded, upon which he swiftly walked away to answer the call. We were at a food stall, after all, so it was quite noisy.

The moment he left to answer the call, Natalie leaned over with a nosy expression on her face.

“Anna, don't you think he's really a decent man? He's quite handsome, and his character is also impeccable. Most importantly, he has a mild temper!” she exclaimed, pleasantly surprised.

Following her gaze, I looked at Yuval, who was talking on the phone some distance away. Admittedly, he was indeed a good man.

“He's indeed a very nice and decent man. He's extremely understanding and considerate.”

In the few months I had known Yuval, I never found any flaw in him. However, I seemed to have no feelings for him.

“So, you're saying that the two of you may very well end up at the altar?”

With her face a mask of surprise, Natalie leaned in close and eyed me nosily, probably because she seldom heard me complimenting a man so highly.

I wavered upon hearing that and was silent for a while before I finally spoke.

“I'm indeed planning to try dating him, but I'm not certain that we'll make it to the altar. I can't shake off the feeling that we're more suited to be friends. To be honest, I feel rather awkward about getting married and having children with him.”

I can't quite imagine how it would be if I were to marry Yuval. Would we also be painfully courteous like how we are right now?

“What nonsense are you spouting? In my opinion, he's perfect for you. Look, he's more handsome than the scumbag, Justin Xenakis. Besides, he's a lawyer, so his income must be pretty high. Usually, the lawyer's fee for a relatively big case goes up to tens of thousands. So, don't look down on him just because he's a mere lawyer. His fees for a month might even be more than what you make in a year.”

Natalie started convincing me when she saw that I was still wavering.

 

Chapter 108

In her eyes, Yuval was the perfect man for me. I knew that Natalie wanted me to find happiness as soon as possible and that she was considering him for me, but I felt there was something missing between me and Yuval.

“Okay, I know what you mean. I am more anxious than you are to find a husband. I mean, can you blame me, though. At this rate, I'm going to be an old spinster in no time.”

Helplessly, I heaved a sigh, not wanting to carry with the topic. I knew too that my age was catching up and if I did not get married soon, I would end up as an old spinster.

Hearing my view, Natalie stopped talking and lowered her head to have her meal. At this moment, Yuval came over.

“Anna, I'm sorry. I've got a little issue with the case I'm handling now, and I have to discuss it with the people involved. I may need to leave now.”

Yuval came up to me looking apologetic.

“Don't worry about it. I know how important your job is. Go ahead.”

Strangely, when I heard that he had to leave, I felt relieved.

“Great. In that case, I'll take my leave now.” Yuval gave me an apologetic smile. “By the way, I've already settled your bill. You can both leave right after you finish eating.”

When I was chatting with Natalie just now, Yuval had already foot the bill. It made me feel as if I owed

him something, because earlier on, I had promised that I would treat him tonight.

“Didn't I say that I'm giving a treat tonight? How much did you pay just now? Let me return the money to you.”

From the first time we started dating, Yuval had always been footing the bills. Today we had agreed that I would pay, but he had settled the bill on his own. Thus, I felt bad after knowing that.

I took out my purse intending to return the money to him. After all, Yuval had spent too much money too often, and I should not keep on taking advantage of him.

“Anna, there's no need to be so courteous with each other. If we really end up together as a married couple, everything I have is yours, let alone a few hundred for meals.

What Yuval continued to say would please any other woman, but at this moment, all that I could feel was pressure, and I was at a loss for words to reply him.

“But we haven't reached that stage yet. Every time we eat together, you're always the one who pays.”

I still wanted to return the money to Yuval, even though I was frugal when spending and tried to save whenever possible. However, I was determined not to take advantage of others as it had always been a principle that I firmly believed in.

“Let's just let it be for this time. When it's your treat the next time, I won't argue with you when paying the bill. Will that do?”

Though Yuval looked very gentle in appearance and seemed friendly, his personality was quite stubborn. After he had made a decision, no one could easily change it.

“Alright, then. Let's agree with this. Since you've some business to attend to, you should go ahead now.”

Since Yuval had made it so clear about his decision to pay this time, it would be quite unpleasant if I insisted on paying him back.

“Okay, then. I'm going off now.”

At that, Yuval bent down and planted a kiss on my forehead. Then, he turned around and left quickly.

I stared blankly at his retreating figure, lost in thought. As a matter of fact, I was quite reluctant, but it happened so fast that I didn't really know what was going on and had no time to react.

“Anna, what are you doing? Miss him already?” Seeing that I was lost in thought even after Yuval had driven off, Natalie said this jokingly whilst tugging at my arm.

I came back to my senses and glared at Natalie fiercely. I did not know what to say as I could not tell her that Yuval's loving affection did nothing for me, and in fact, repulsed me a little.

Natalie wanted Yuval to be with me so badly that if I told her, she would think of more ideas, and so, I decided not to.

“Anna, when Yuval kissed you just now, I noticed that he blushed. It is so rare to find an adult man who is so shy, and that's really surprising.”

Despite remaining silent, it did not stop Natalie from gossiping. Tonight, she seemed really taken up with whatever was going on between Yuval and me.

“Hurry up and eat your lobster. Even food can't stop you from chattering, eh?”

Not wanting to continue debating on this topic with Natalie, I picked up a lobster and shoved it in her mouth.

Instantly, Natalie was silent again. Meanwhile, I was deep in thought. I should be more comfortable when I'm with Yuval since we might get married in the future. After all, we can't possibly stay this way when we're doing it as man and wife later on, right?

For a married couple, sex is a basic necessity. If I still feel repulsed by Yuval by then, that wouldn't be fair to him.

Natalie was still eating, whereas I was drinking some water. She nearly finished eating all the seafood on our table. I must admit - Natalie sure loves food.

Not far away, a young couple walked toward us while hugging each other tightly. Even while they were walking, the man kept teasing the girl beside him.

I glanced at them, but I could not make out the faces clearly as the lights were quite dim; I could only see their movement in general.

There were undoubtedly more and more couples getting bolder nowadays - kissing and hugging in public. To me, it was just an eyesore. Seriously though, get a room, guys! Why would anyone want to

see that in public?

I looked away from them, returning my gaze to the table as I could not bear watching them any longer.

After that, I continued drinking water as I waited for Natalie to finish the lobsters.

As she ate, I noticed that she stopped moving, and her eyes were staring fixedly at some distant object.

I followed the direction of her gaze and found that she was looking at the young couple. As I looked clearly at their faces, I was filled with rage.

It turned out that the man was none other than John Young, that scoundrel. The woman in his arms must be his new girlfriend. Well, what a coincidence to bump into them here...

Instantly, Natalie looked glum, as her gaze remained fixated on John. Though she seemed to have gotten over the pain from this breakup, I knew that, deep down inside, she still could not let go. She was someone who very much valued her relationships, and it was not easy for someone like her to move on so easily.

Not far away, John held a woman tightly in his embrace, and his lips moved forward to kiss her while she giggled, trying to avoid his kisses coyly.

“Johnny, stop it. There is a crowd here. Aren't you afraid of being seen?”

 

Chapter 109

From a closer distance, I could see the heavy makeup on that girl's face. From her looks, I estimated that she must be in her thirties, and there seemed to be a huge age gap between John and her. From the way she dressed, she seemed to be wealthy.

“What is there to be afraid of? You're my girlfriend, and there is nothing wrong with kissing you.”

At that, John continued trying to kiss her. And on his face was a despicable smile.

“Stop it...”

The woman pretended to resist verbally but voluntarily puckered up her red lips, welcoming the kiss.

As Natalie watched the interaction between them, there was a painful look in her beautiful eyes. She had just broken up with John, and here he was, with another woman. This must be so hard for her to bear.

“Natalie, have you finished eating? Let's go if you're done.”

I knew that Natalie must be feeling sad, so I wanted to take her away from the scene as soon as possible.

“No, I haven't. Why should I go?”

Natalie's voice was choked with emotions, but she kept them under control. I knew that besides feeling upset, she had hatred in her heart.

I understood because I had had the same experience. Thus, I could empathize with her.

Nonetheless, Natalie pretended not to mind at all as she continued eating. But of course, as her best friend, I knew that she was using that to hide her pain.

Heaving a heavy sigh, I looked at Natalie with a pained expression as my heart poured out for her. At that point, I really did not know how to console her.

At that moment, John and the woman were already walking toward us, but I turned away, pretending not to see them. They were really an eyesore.

Natalie and I did not want to cause trouble, but I was afraid they would be looking for trouble instead. As expected, after John sat down, he saw us and stared in disbelief. Then, he walked toward us.

“What a coincidence. I did not expect to see you both here.”

John stood in front of Natalie, gazing at her face. She was stuffing her face to distract herself from feeling miserable. Hence, her mouth was full, her cheeks puffed up, and her lips were oily. That was quite an embarrassing sight.

When Natalie heard John's voice, she froze. I could see that she was trying to avoid looking at John as tears started to well up in her eyes.

“I don't think it's that coincidental, to be honest. I've been bumping into a lot of scoundrels and sluts wherever I go lately.”

I knew that Natalie would be too depressed to say anything. After all, John, who had just betrayed her, was now showing off his new girlfriend. It was despicable, and I could not stand seeing my best friend being bullied.

“I'm sorry, Ms. Garcia, but I wasn't speaking to you. What happened between me and Natalie is none of your business!”

John turned his gaze upon me as he heard me speak. His eyes were filled with enmity.

Right from the start, I had discovered his infidelity, and my attitude toward him had been less than great. From that time onward, he had hated me.

At that time, he had wanted me to keep his unfaithfulness a secret from Natalie, and so he had not dared to offend me. Now that he was no longer with Natalie, of course, he need not be polite with me anymore.

“You broke up with Natalie, so there is no need for you to say anything. But if you are here to show off your new girlfriend, I'd advise you to go and get lost!”

I was usually polite. Even when Justin betrayed me, I was not as angry as I was now. After all, Justin was not as deranged as this man.

“Johnny, who's this? How rude of her!”

Just when I lost my patience and cursed John, the woman who was with him sashayed over, looking at me with hostility.

“My ex's best friend. Anyway, she's just a shrew; ignore her.”

John cast me a disdainful glance.

A shrew? Are you freakin' kidding me? How dare you, you b*stard!

“Even if I am a shrew, I'm better than a scoundrel like you. You were unfaithful - cheating on Natalie with an old woman. You've got poor taste!”

I glanced at the woman that John had his arm around. Even though she wore heavy makeup, it was obvious that she was more than thirty-five years of age. John was only about twenty-five, for goodness' sake. Who would've thought he'd cheat on Natalie for an older woman?

“Who are you calling an old woman?”

Hearing that, the woman lost her temper. Her expression became a little distorted, and her gaze was full of anger when she looked at me.

Nevertheless, I looked at them coldly and could not be bothered if this woman was angry. Even though I did not know her, she still ruined Natalie's relationship, so naturally, she didn't leave any good impression on me.

“John, I am sure your taste isn't that bad. The reason you choose such an old woman must be because she is wealthy, am I right? Or perhaps it's because she's good in bed?”

I had to admit that I was really venting right then. Natalie was already devastated, and John was here, making it worse. In any case, it was terribly wrong to do this to a girl who had loved him so much. He

was really a scumbag.

I would not usually use any foul language, but today, I could no longer hold back. After all, John's new girlfriend was just an older woman, which, in my opinion, was nothing to boast about.

Hearing my insults, the woman got really angry. She rushed over to assault me, but John held her back. “Babe, there's no need to resort to violence. We don't have to stoop to their level.”

Seeing John's response, I guessed he did not want too much trouble since we were still in public.

Despite that, the woman could not hold back her anger. Grabbing the pot of water beside Natalie, she splashed it in my face. Fortunately, the water had gone cold, otherwise, my face would be scalded.

Natalie, who had been quiet all along, jumped up suddenly when she saw the woman did that. Before I even realized it, she had shoved the woman onto the ground.

My temper rose as I wiped my face dry with a piece of tissue. This b*tch is really something, huh? Is she trying to mess with me?

“Natalie, just what do you think you're you doing?”

Seeing that Natalie had pushed the woman, John yelled at her. The ever-so gentle John was no longer to be found at that moment.

Smack!

A tight slap followed right across John's face as soon as he finished his sentence. Natalie's eyes were

red-rimmed, and her gaze was full of disappointment when she looked at him. I knew that she was completely disappointed in him then.

 

Chapter 110

John was stunned at that. It took him a while to return to his senses. When he turned to look at Natalie again, his eyes were blazing with fury.

Back then, when they were in love, Natalie used to listen to his every word. She never said any harsh words, much less slapped him. Perhaps it was because of that, an incredulous expression sprawled on his face at that time.

“Natalie, how dare you slap me?” said John as he stared at Natalie with a stormy expression. Considering this man's personality, I guessed he would probably slap Natalie back.

Upon hearing that, Natalie lost control of her emotions and roared, “So what if I did? John, you b*stard, you're the one who betrayed me! To be frank, I went easy on you. If I wasn't holding back, I could've killed you right now!”

After saying that, tears rolled down her cheeks uncontrollably. I knew that she was very upset, but I didn't walk over to console her because I thought all she wanted to do at that moment was to vent all her emotions on John so she would feel better.

John was dumbfounded as he witnessed Natalie in this state. I could see from his eyes that he was flustered. Is he feeling guilty? Didn't he come to stir up trouble a minute ago? Why is he chickening out now that Natalie had yelled at him?

Just then, the woman who was pushed by Natalie stood up. Boiling with rage, her face was distorted by anger.

“You b*tch! How dare you push me!”

With that, the woman dashed toward Natalie and grabbed the latter's throat tightly like a madwoman.

Witnessing a scene such as this, I flew into a panic. I was afraid that Natalie would be on the losing end. Hence, I rushed toward her and tried to pull that woman away.

However, that woman had gone berserk. She turned around and landed a slap on my face, to which I nearly fainted. After regaining my senses, a fresh swell of rage rose in me like a tide.

Although I always kept my ladylike manner, I wouldn't let anyone bully me. Thus, I suppressed the anger in my heart and pulled that woman's hair until she released her grip on Natalie's throat.

Then, I took the opportunity to push her to the floor again.

In the meantime, John just stood aside and stared at the three of us. He didn't intend to break up the fight at all. I despised a weakling like him, and I couldn't understand why someone would love a coward like him.

“How dare you! I'll make you pay for this! Do you wish for me to call the cops on you?”

Since Natalie and I fought her together, that woman knew that she wouldn't be able to win the fight. Therefore, she used the cops to threaten us.

“Be my guest! After all, you were the one who started it. Besides, you broke us up and created trouble, you old wretch!”

After fighting, Natalie felt much better. She returned to her usual domineering self and rebuked the pair harshly.

“Call me 'old wretch' one more time, and I'll tear your mouth apart!”

Women hoped that they would always stay young and beautiful. Therefore, that woman instantly blew up when she heard us calling her old.

“I'm just telling the truth. Oh, by the way, I thought you said you wanted to call the cops? Why don't you do it now? Are you scared?”

Natalie had always been fearless, so she didn't seem afraid of that woman's threat at that time.

Moreover, if that woman lodged a police report, we could justify our actions because she was the one who splashed me with water first. Thus, it would be an advantage for us.

“I'll call the cops now!” With that, that woman fished out her phone and called the police.

Once the call got connected, she explained about the incident and said that Natalie and I had beat her up.

After hanging up, she cast a glance at us triumphantly and said, “Let's see if you're still this arrogant when you arrive at the police station.”

Her eyes were filled with ruthlessness as she looked at us smugly.

I frowned at the sight. What an unreasonable woman! If she isn't rich, I don't think John will ever

choose her to be his girlfriend.

From the beginning, John just stood by the side and dared not to make a sound. Just looking at him had me wonder why a coward like him even existed in this world.

“Hmph! You'll be the one on the losing end,” retorted Natalie.

She had never lost an argument. Moreover, she was arguing with the woman who came in between her and John at that time. Of course, she wouldn't show the latter any mercy.

Although Natalie didn't lose the argument, I had a bad premonition because that woman looked confident. It looked like she really hoped that we would take this matter to the police station.

A few minutes later, two police cars showed up. Natalie and I sat in the same car, while John and that woman sat in another car.

It was my first time in a police car, and I was feeling uneasy.

Hence, I took out my phone. When I tapped on the address book, I saw Yuval's contact number. Although I felt embarrassed to ask him to help us in this matter, I had no other choice. After all, he was a lawyer, and he was the only one who could help us now.

With that thought in mind, I called him. However, a few seconds later, the automated message played from the other end indicating that his phone was switched off.

At that, a vague uneasiness slowly crept up of me. I had no idea what would happen at the police station, but I guessed things wouldn't go smooth because that woman looked oddly confident.

“Anna? Are you okay? You seem preoccupied,” queried Natalie with a worried look when she noticed that I seemed a little off.

“Natalie, I think we've fallen to her scheme,” I leaned in close to Natalie's ear and whispered.

For some reason, I thought something was amiss. That woman looked smart, so she must've known that she would be on the losing end if we explained the situation to the police as she was the one who started the fight. However, she didn't look worried at all after making the police report. Not only that, I could even see the anticipation on her face.