Ch. 21..30

Chapter 21

Michael looked at me with solemnness gleaming in his eyes. Intimidated by him, I desperately wanted to escape. I was drunk the other night and wanted to take revenge on that scumbag, Justin. However, I regretted it after I became sober, so there was no way I would sleep with him again.

“Is there any other option? I'll do whatever you want me to do except for this...”

I smiled awkwardly and tried to back away from him. Oh gosh, he's going to force himself on me!

“Anna, do you think you have the right to choose? Ha! No woman can say no to me!” Michael replied in a domineering tone as he walked toward me.

I was annoyed with him. This man thinks so highly of himself! How could he be so narcissistic and assume that all women want to sleep with him? Just because he's rich and handsome?

I took several steps backward. Should I run away? But what are my chances of escape?

“Didn't you praise me at that time and say that I was amazing? I'll let you enjoy it again tonight!”

By then, Michael had come up to me. His sexually suggestive tone and lustful gaze made me feel as though I was a lamb waiting to be slaughtered, incapable of escaping.

“Please spare me! I'm sorry for what I did last time. Just forgive me and let me go!”

Knowing that men could not resist weak and pitiable women, I gave him a pleading look. Although I was not that type of phony woman, I still put on the cutesy and pitiful act in order to escape from him despite feeling disgusted with myself.

“Anna, don't talk to me in this manner!” Immediately, Michael's expression darkened, and he glared at me in disdain, furrowing his brows.

I thought all men liked women acting that way. However, he seemed to be an exception and was repulsed by my cutesy act.

“As long as you let me go, I'll talk properly!” I responded in my normal tone while looking at him solemnly.

I just want to leave this place as soon as possible!

“It's too late! You were the one who seduced me first that night!”

After Michael finished his words, he strode toward me. Shuddering in fear, I took a step backward involuntarily.

“Be careful!”

By the time he shouted, I had retreated to the riverbank and lost my balance.

“Ah!” I closed my eyes and yelled, thinking that I was going to fall into the river.

Oh, no! I can't swim! Will he save me after I fall into the river? Or is he going to leave me to die? But I don't want to die yet!

While I was absorbed in thought, I suddenly felt a strong grip around my waist. The next second, I was

pulled into Michael's arms.

However, I was still frantic with fear and kept yelling.

“Stop yelling already! You're going to make me deaf!” Michael's deep voice came from above, sounding displeased.

Finally, I came to my senses and raised my head to look at his handsome face. My heart leaped into my throat instantly.

I panicked and wanted to break free from his grasp, but he pulled me into a tight embrace. Before I could react, he had pressed his lips to mine.

While my eyes widened in surprise, my heart pounded hard in my chest as I was overwhelmed by an indescribable feeling. At that moment, I totally forgot to resist.

To my surprise, I was even enjoying the intimate moment. I must be out of my mind!

My whole body tingled with excitement. I had no idea how long the kiss lasted and did not even realize that I was being carried in Michael's arms.

After carrying me to his car, Michael placed me in the passenger seat. It was not until he reclined the seat that I was brought to my senses. By then, he was already pressing his body against mine, and the car door was shut tight.

It was late at night, and there was hardly anyone outside. Therefore, Michael did not have to worry about being seen by others.

He was driving a Mercedes-Benz SUV, which had ample space even with two people occupying the passenger seat.

 

Chapter 22

“Are you shy? You were good in bed that night! I prefer the naughty Anna!” Michael flashed a wicked smile and inched closer to my ear, making a suggestive remark as his warm breath tickled me.

How dare he make such an obscene remark!

I snapped my head around, intending to lash out at him. However, he forced himself on me before I could say a word.

After struggling for a while, I was completely drained of energy. On the other hand, he kept going at it tirelessly.

Finally, Michael let out a soft moan as waves of pleasure coursed through his body.

As he rested on my body while panting for breath, I could feel his heartbeat accelerating after doing the deed.

Having rested for a while, he put on his clothes at a leisurely pace, while I barely possessed the strength to even move.

Staring at my birthday suit, he frowned slightly. Then, he placed his suit jacket on me, covering my body.

Michael started the car engine and turned to me, asking flatly, “Where do you live? I'll send you home.”

I glanced at him and replied coldly, “Drive me to the pharmacy.”

In fact, I was disgruntled and aggrieved at being taken advantage of by Michael. How dare he do that to me! It's ridiculous!

Nevertheless, I tried to comfort myself. Oh well, what's done is done! After this, I don't owe him anything, and he shouldn't cause trouble for me anymore. We'll go our separate ways and treat each other like a stranger.

Initially, I was hoping that he would let me go, but I only realized that I was too naive later on. All he wanted was to have sex with me! D*mn it!

“Why are you going to the pharmacy? Not feeling well?” Michael gave me a puzzled look and sounded as though he cared about me.

I shook my head, trying to clear my mind. No, don't overthink! We only met for the third time. It doesn't make sense for him to care about a nobody.

Besides, I just watched him treat his hookup ruthlessly. What's more, she's a famous celebrity!

“I'm going to buy contraceptive pills. You won't want me to get pregnant with your baby, right?”

Last time, I had forgotten to buy contraceptive pills as I got inebriated after breaking up with Justin. Despite having had some drinks, I'm still sober this time. Though I didn't have much sexual experience, I was aware of the importance of practicing safe sex.

Upon hearing my words, Michael frowned slightly but remained silent. Immediately, he turned the

steering wheel.

Soon, we arrived at a nearby pharmacy. I couldn't help but frown as I struggled to put on my clothes due to the discomfort in my lower body.

When I was about to get out of his car, he unbuckled his seat belt. “Wait for me here! I'll go get it!” I guessed he felt guilty about the way he had treated me.

With that, Michael opened the car door and walked into the pharmacy.

After a while, he came back with a few packs of contraceptive pills. There were regular birth control pills and morning-after pills of different brands.

He tossed all the contraceptive pills into my arms and then sat in the driver’s seat.

“Why are there so many pills? I don’t have to take that many, do I?”

I was bewildered as I looked at the various types of contraceptives. Is he out of his mind? Or does he think his sperm is so potent that I need to take more pills to kill it?

“Well, I didn't know which type is suitable for you, so I'll leave it up to you.” Michael glanced at me with a weird expression on his face.

“Which type of pill did your partner take?”

This is my first time taking a contraceptive pill. How would I know which one is suitable for me? Since he has slept with plenty of women, he should know a thing or two about it.

Immediately, Michael shot me a scorching glare, and his expression darkened. “How would I know? It's not like I need to take that.”

I pursed my lips in displeasure. He wasn't even the least bit concerned about them after his hookups. This man is so irresponsible!

Still, I could only keep those words to myself as I did not dare to say them out loud in front of the ill- tempered man. If I annoy him, I'll be in deep trouble, so I'd better keep quiet!

I was left with no choice but to scan through those packs of pills. In the end, I chose the emergency contraceptive pill, which was to be taken within twelve hours after unprotected sex. As soon as I removed the pills from the packet, Michael handed me a bottle of mineral water.

Oh well, at least he got me a bottle of water.

I took the bottle from him and immediately swallowed the pill without hesitation.

Meanwhile, Michael stared at me and furrowed his brows without saying a word. His eyes were profound with an unfathomable look in them.

After getting some rest, I tidied my clothes. Then, I fixed my gaze on him and said in all seriousness, “Michael, I've already compensated you. From now on, we are strangers and should stay out of each other's way. Please don't make my life difficult anymore!”

Yet, he remained silent and frowned as he looked at me with an unreadable expression. He gave the impression that he was a manipulative man, and my gut told me that he was dangerous.

 

Chapter 23

“Bye. I'm leaving.”

Not wanting to be alone with Michael any longer, I opened the door on the front passenger side and stepped out. Michael frowned and watched me leave in silence. After I got down from the car, he sped off, giving me a scare that had me rooted to the ground.

I pursed my lips in displeasure. This guy really lacked style, but it didn't bother me as much as I thought it would. After all, from today onwards, there would be nothing between us anymore. Even if we met again in the future, we would be strangers to each other.

After walking a few steps, I called a cab to head to my good friend Natalie's home. On the way, I realized Michael's coat was still draped over my shoulders. I wanted to return it, but I did not know how to contact him.

Forget it. I'll give it back to him if I have the chance in the future. Anyway, the CEO of a company that's this big in size should not lack a coat.

When I returned to Natalie's, she had just arrived home. She took note of how my clothes were a little messy, and she also realized I was wearing Michael's coat. Immediately, she knew something had happened and quickly questioned me.

“Anna, tell me what happened! Did you do what I think you did with him?”

Natalie's gaze fell upon the hickey on my neck, and an ambiguous look crossed her eyes.

Although she was my best friend, I was a relatively conservative person, so I could not help blushing

when she questioned me.

“Your imagination is running wild. I didn't do such a thing.”

“Your neck is covered with hickeys. No one would believe you didn't do it. Tell me quickly. Who was it? Was it Michael Shaw?

The part of Natalie, which always wanted gossip, was awakened at that point. I knew she would not let it rest if I did not tell her everything.

I would be nagged relentlessly until I confessed.

“It really was him. Anna, I was wondering if Michael was really interested in you. And today, you both...”

Though Natalie did not complete her sentence, being adults, we knew she was referring to the exercise Michael and I had performed in the car.

“Natalie, please do not distort the truth. I was drunk when I did it with Michael the previous time. This time, I was simply thanking him for all he has done for me. I made it clear to him that from now on, we will go our separate ways.”

Thinking that I did not owe Michael anything anymore, I felt relieved. From that moment on, I could pretend that he did not exist in my life whenever I saw him.

“Anna, I think Michael is quite eligible. He is the most well-known young adult in the city, and he is a wealthy man at such a young age. What's more important is that he is so handsome, compared to

Justin. If you choose him over Justin, you'd be justified.”

Natalie's love for gossip was surfacing again, and she gleefully imagined how advantageous it would be for me to be with Michael without knowing that there was nothing much going on between us.

“That's enough of worrying about me, Natalie. You should take care of yourself. Didn't you tell me you've found a boyfriend? We must find some time to meet so I can give you my opinion.”

Unwilling to talk too much about Michael, I changed the subject.

“That's great. I've been busy with work lately. Once I've handled all the things at work, I'll let you meet him. He'll be our host.”

Natalie was a loud and easygoing person, so she naturally agreed without hesitation.

I was looking forward to seeing what type of man her boyfriend was. What type of man could turn her into a gentle little lady on the phone.

“Great, so we have agreed on this. I'm tired. I'm going to my room to rest.”

After the lengthy performance in Michael's car, I felt tired, sore, and uncomfortable. All I wanted was to bathe and wash away all of the man's scent that still clung to my body.

After bathing, I returned to my bedroom and slept like a log. Too much had happened; I was totally exhausted. Sleep was all I wanted.

For many consecutive days, I remained in Natalie's home. Her workload was heavy, and I was jobless,

so I acted as a temporary housekeeper, cleaning and cooking.

My dear friend was kind enough to put up with me, and since she was so busy, it was only right for me to help around in the house.

I was cleaning with a vacuum cleaner when my mobile phone rang suddenly. It was an unfamiliar phone number, so I frowned suspiciously before I answered the call.

I thought it was a prank call, but it turned out to be a notice that my application for work was successful. I had been accepted by Joyful Success Advertisements.

I had not received a call of acceptance for such a long time, prompting me to think that I had failed the interview. I had planned to wait for two days, and if there was no news, I would apply to another company, but I was unexpectedly accepted.

After hanging up the phone, I was still excited and unable to calm down. Alone in the sitting room, I screamed out in joy!

The person on the phone had instructed me to report for work the next day.

My mood was uplifted after that, and I was enthusiastic about everything I did. In the afternoon, I cleaned Natalie's house inside out. I also washed all the clothes that she had worn over the past few days.

When Natalie returned home, she was surprised to see her home neat and tidy. She looked at me in astonishment.

“Anna, have you won a lottery today? You seem to have found a sudden burst of motivation. You've cleaned my whole house inside out.”

Natalie walked around the sitting hall and then stood facing me, her face full of disbelief.

“Natalie, am I such a lazy person in your eyes? You've provided food and lodging for me, so I've cleaned your house in return. I can't just laze around, can I? That would be such a shame.”

I glared at her and spoke with feigned anger. However, the truth was she had never once complained about me living and eating for free.

“Tell me what good news you have! Your face tells me you have much to say.”

Natalie was the one who understood me the most. Even though I had said nothing, she could tell I was feeling happy.

“Natalie, I've been accepted by Joyful Success! I am to report for work tomorrow.”

After telling her about my new job, I still could not contain my excitement. I couldn't believe I had really been selected.

“Really? Anna, I knew you'd be accepted. You have so much natural talent in advertising. Joyful Success has made the right choice.”

 

Chapter 24

Natalie gave me a big hug. It seemed like she was more excited about the news than I was.

“Tomorrow, I'm going to work. Tonight, I shall give you a big treat. Let's go and get a good dinner!”

Since I would be able to start work in Joyful Success the next day, I decided to be generous that night. I wanted to treat Natalie to a big meal as an appreciation of her kindness in providing for me for so many days.

“Let's go. Tonight, I shall choose the venue!”

Natalie was even more excited when she heard about my offer to treat her.

“Oh, yes, invite your boyfriend to come along as well. You said we'll meet, but we haven't had a chance to do that yet. Tonight will be a great opportunity.”

Remembering our conversation about meeting Natalie's boyfriend, I suggested that I meet him tonight as well.

Natalie was my best friend, so I knew she would agree to my suggestion. Immediately, she took out her mobile phone and called him.

Natalie booked the restaurant, and we both arrived by cab.

After arriving, we waited for about half an hour before Natalie's boyfriend, John, arrived.

I checked him out from top to toe. He was tall, slim, and wore a pair of glasses. He seemed scholarly

and gentle.

“John, why did you take so long to come here? We waited for quite some time.”

The moment the man appeared, Natalie went forward and held his arm affectionately. Her normally straightforward and boisterous character disappeared; she became a sweet and demure girl.

I could not help but smile when I saw the way Natalie changed. It happened so fast that I wondered if John knew what she was like at home.

With a face filled with remorse, John glanced at me and explained, “The traffic was rather heavy. I'm sorry.”

“No worries. We are not in a hurry.”

I smiled at him, but I was a little skeptical. At this time, it was past the rush hour, and the restaurant we chose was relatively remote. Since we were not in the downtown area, why would there be a traffic jam?

Upon seeing Natalie so excited to be with him, I kept such suspicions to myself, not wishing to embarrass her.

Although I had proclaimed we would have a good meal, Natalie did not order any expensive dishes. I knew she was trying to help me save some money, knowing that I had just found a job. All my previous savings had been used on the preparations for the wedding with Justin.

During the meal, I saw John constantly stealthily checking his mobile phone, and he seemed a little anxious, which was strange.

“Mr. Young, you have been constantly looking at your phone. You look preoccupied. Is there something wrong?”

I did not want to spoil the atmosphere. Although the man looked very scholarly and quiet, there was something weird about him which I could not pinpoint.

The expression on John's face became obviously a little flustered, and he quickly put the phone in his pocket.

“No... It's nothing, it's just an idle habit, checking my Instagram for posts and messages.”

“John, you shouldn't play with the phone when we are eating together. We haven't met for a few days. Now that we are together, don't you want to pay more attention to me?”

Natalie looked at her boyfriend, pouting with displeasure and gently reproving him. Through some miracle, she did not catch the guilty look on his face.

Although John's expression was reasonably normal, I had become more observant and smarter after being betrayed by Justin.

I couldn't believe someone checking Instagram posts and messages needed to be stealthy. I could feel that he was hiding something from Natalie.

However, my friend, being such a jovial and boisterous character, would never be suspicious of John.

I was not trying to find fault with John. I simply did not want my good friend to go through what I had suffered. I did not want her to be betrayed by a man. It was such a heart-rending pain that I did not want Natalie to go through.

John was still looking at his mobile phone nonstop and occasionally typing messages in it. Natalie, who was congratulating me excitedly over my new job, did not notice John's behavior, but I observed his every move.

Halfway through dinner, the man made the excuse that he needed to visit the bathroom and took his phone with him, heading in that direction.

While walking in the direction of the bathroom, he seemed hurried and had a flustered expression on his face which further aroused my suspicions. John is not as honest as he looks on the surface.

Natalie concentrated on eating, not noticing at all John's weird behavior.

“Natalie, how does your boyfriend usually treat you? How well do you know him?”

I gazed at my friend, who was eating nonstop, and asked her quietly.

“John is an ordinary employee in the company like me, but we work in different departments.”

Natalie replied to my questions about John without reservation.

“Is he good to you? Do you usually spend a lot of time together?

I continued asking while observing Natalie carefully.

“Anna, why are you so gossipy today? You were never interested in my boyfriend before. Do you have something against John?”

I usually minded my own business, so it was only fair for Natalie to be surprised to see me asking so many questions.

“Oh, it's nothing. Just random questions.”

I bent my head and gave her a nonchalant reply, keeping my mouth shut after.

Even after a long time, John had not come back. I was growing even more suspicious. Even if he was passing motion, it would not take that long.

“Natalie, I'm going to the bathroom. You wait here for me.”

After finding an excuse, I picked up my phone and headed towards the bathroom.

Before I got to the bathroom at the corner of the corridor, I heard John's voice talking on the phone.

“Babe, I'm really working. I'll call you again later, okay?”

Hearing his voice round the corner of the corridor, I leaned close to the wall and did not walk forward.

“How could I ever lie to you? When have I ever lied to you? After I have finished my work, I'll be with

you. Is that okay?”

Hearing the coaxing tone of John's voice, it was obvious that the person on the other end of the line was a girl. At that moment, I felt furious.

Outwardly, John looked like an honest person. It was unimaginable that he was a scumbag. Here he was as Natalie's boyfriend, speaking to another woman on the phone in such tones!

The man ended the call shortly after and walked in my direction. I did not avoid him, choosing to wait for him instead.

Natalie was the only friend who treated me sincerely now. I definitely could not let her suffer betrayal as I did. I did not want my best friend to suffer that kind of pain.

 

Chapter 25

After hanging up the phone, John looked much more relieved, but the smile on his lips froze as soon as he saw me.

“Ms. Garcia, what are you doing here?”

He seemed slightly uncomfortable, and he also kept avoiding my gaze. His behavior only served to confirm that he was hiding something.

“I heard everything you said on the phone earlier.”

I cut straight to the chase. Right then, I had a very low opinion of this man; I was convinced he was bad news.

Upon hearing what I said, John's expression changed as guilt shone in his eyes.

“M-Ms. Garcia, I-”

The man turned flustered as he tried to explain, but I interrupted him before he could get another word out.

“Mr. Young, let's talk over there. I'm sure you wouldn't want anyone overhearing our conversation,” I suggested while pointing to the end of the corridor near a window.

John's face stiffened, but due to his guilt, he obediently followed me toward the window.

“You were on the phone with another woman just now. There's something going on between the two of

you, isn't there?”

I pinned him with a cold stare that matched my tone. Anger rose in me at the thought of him cheating on Natalie.

Natalie was my best friend, and I wasn't going to let anyone hurt her.

“Y-Yes...” Knowing that I had already heard everything, John was smart enough not to deny anything.

“Ms. Garcia, please don't tell Nat about that phone call.”

John looked at me with pleading eyes.

“Tell me the truth. Do you like that woman you were on the call with or Natalie? If you don't have feelings for Natalie, I suggest you stop messing around with her!”

I felt absolutely repulsed when I faced a scumbag who reminded me of Justin. Hence, I didn't bother being civil with him. Neither did I care if I strained our acquaintanceship. All I cared about was making sure Natalie wouldn't be betrayed.

“Of course, Natalie is the one I love. The person on the phone was just a young girl who's been bothering me. That's why I had no choice but to persuade her to leave me alone. I'm telling you the truth. Natalie is the only one for me!”

At my question, John immediately swore to me that my friend was the one he loved.

If it were me, I wouldn't want to be with a two-timer like John, but I could see that Natalie really liked him. She would be devastated if she knew about this.

“I can promise not to tell Natalie about this, provided you promise me one thing in return.”

After deliberating for a long time, I decided to give John a chance. After all, he wasn't as bad as Justin, who cheated on his fiancée with her best friend.

“What is it? Tell me! As long as you don't tell Natalie about this, I'll do anything.”

John stared at me expectantly and agreed to my condition before I even revealed it.

“Since Natalie is the one you love, I don't think you need to keep in touch with any other irrelevant women. I hope you'll love her with all your heart. No one else.”

After stating my condition, I scrutinized John's face.

His eyes flickered, and he agreed to my condition without missing a beat. “Alright. I can do that. From now on, I'll only take good care of Natalie and no one else. I won't get involved with other women.”

Narrowing my eyes slightly, I walked up to him and spat in a warning tone, “I hope you remember what you said today. If you betray Natalie one day, you'll have to answer to me!”

With that, I strode away without looking back.

In truth, nine out of ten sentences men said were lies. If it were me, I wouldn't have given John a second chance, but Natalie was head over heels in love with him. Besides, I didn't have concrete

evidence to prove that he was indeed two-timing her. If I disclosed this matter to her, it would only make our relationship stiff.

Most importantly, I still had a sliver of hope; hope that John would really heed my warning and only love Natalie from then on. I really hoped the two of them could stay together so that Natalie would be able to marry the man she loved and have a family with him.

John only came back a few minutes after I settled back in my seat. I knew he had deliberately done that so as to avoid suspicion.

“What took you so long?”

As soon as John came back to our table, Natalie clung to him, looking like a bee attracted to honey. With a pout on her lips, she gazed at him with a hint of accusation in her eyes.

“I was having a mild stomachache. Sorry for making you wait.”

While speaking, John took a quick glance at me. After confirming that I had no intention to expose him, he visibly relaxed in his seat.

“Stomachache? Why didn't you tell me earlier? Do you need to go to the hospital?”

Upon hearing that he felt unwell, Natalie immediately grew anxious and gazed at him with a worried expression.

“I'm fine. I'll take some medicine after I get home. Don't worry about it.”

John's expression was slightly unnatural as he tried to reassure Natalie.

Aware that he was lying, disdain flashed in my eyes. He was obviously flirting with another woman on the phone just now, but he had the audacity to use a stomachache as an excuse to gain Natalie's concern.

I lifted my cup and took a sip from it to suppress the urge to expose him.

“Anna, since John isn't feeling well, is it okay if we stop here today and meet up again some other time?”

Although John had already said that he was fine, Natalie couldn't help but worry about him.

I shot a fleeting glance at the man before getting to my feet. “Sure. We're done eating anyway. Let's meet up again some time.”

“Then I'll take John home first. You can get back on your own by taxi, right?”

As soon as Natalie said this, John immediately refused, “It's fine. I can go back on my own. My stomachache really isn't that bad.”

“You're not feeling well. Natalie will worry if you go back on your own. Let her take you, just for her peace of mind.”

I knew John was afraid Natalie might discover something. That was why he had made up an excuse to reject her offer. However, since he had already promised to break off all contact with other women, he should prove it through his actions.

 

Chapter 26

“I'm worried about you, John. Just let me take you home.”

Natalie held onto the man's arm and blinked coquettishly at him. If he were to reject her again, even after I spoke on Natalie's behalf, it would definitely arouse her suspicion.

Thus, he didn't refuse this time and agreed to have Natalie send him home. After the two of them left, I settled the bill and took a taxi back to Natalie's house.

As I was officially starting work the next day, I made sure to prepare everything I needed in advance, lest I ended up late on my first day.

Glancing at the wall clock, I noticed that it was already nine. I assumed that Natalie would be back home late and prepared to call it a night.

However, the front door opened moments after and Natalie walked in. Upon seeing her back so soon, a frown formed between my brows and I made my way toward her.

“Why are you back so soon? Why didn't you spend more quality time with your boyfriend?” I draped an arm over her shoulder and teased.

“He said he's tired. He told me to go home before I could even go upstairs with him. Anna, did I do something wrong? Otherwise, why was he so cold to me today?”

Natalie raised her head to look at me with a dejected look on her face.

After hearing what she said, rage surged in my heart once again. ”Tired” is just an excuse. He probably

feels guilty, that's why!

And this silly girl thinks she did something wrong when it's clearly that prick who's cheating on her!

I took a deep breath to quell my rage. I already gave John a warning earlier today. If he changes, then all is well. But if I find out he's playing with Natalie's feelings, I'll never let him off the hook.

“What are you talking about, Natalie? Do you know how hard it is to find a girlfriend who is as kind and sweet as you? John is lucky to have you as his girlfriend, and don't let anyone tell you otherwise.”

Natalie usually seemed unconcerned, she was, in fact, kind and very loyal to her friends. All in all, she was a very likeable person.

“Well, this is a first. I don't recall you ever praising me like that before.”

My words seemed to work like a charm as made her break into a pretty smile.

“I have some advice for you. Pay closer attention to John from now on. Observe him and his demeanor more.”

Worried that she would put her whole heart into this relationship, I couldn't help myself from giving her a reminder. If John didn't change, she would be the one who got hurt, and that was the last thing I wanted to see.

“What's that supposed to mean, Anna? You don't believe he truly loves me? Your previous relationships must've scarred you pretty badly for you to be this cynical.”

Natalie looked at me with amusement, not taking my advice seriously whatsoever.

Perhaps she was already convinced that John loved her and that the two of them would live happily ever after.

I wanted to say something else, but the unperturbed look on Natalie's face made me realize that nothing I said would get through to her. Hence, I swallowed the words that sat at the tip of my tongue.

“I guess so. I just don't want you to get hurt. It's getting late. Let's get some sleep now. It's a working day for both of us tomorrow.”

The thought of that scumbag, Justin, disgusted me, but the initial hurt I felt was already fading.

Natalie seemed to realize that she had slipped up and ripped the band-aid off my wound. She wanted to say something, but I didn't give her the chance to speak and directly went back to my room.

I already moved on, vowing to never cry over a scumbag because it just wasn't worth it. The most important thing for me right then was to work hard so that my parents could live a good life in the countryside.

I was just a child born in the countryside. My parents worked hard their whole lives to put me through university. My dad was getting up in years and had to take many types of medication for his weak heart. Thus, my only priority was to focus on my career and make more money.

After joining Joyful Success, my life went back on track as I threw myself into work.

However, my peaceful days were short-lived.

When my wedding with Justin was canceled so abruptly, my dad's heart condition worsened from the shock. Since then, he had to take even more drugs than before, and according to the doctor, the best solution was to get a heart stent surgery.

The problem was that the cost of the surgery was at least two hundred thousand. There was also the post-surgery treatment to consider, and my family didn't have that sort of money.

I knew the reason my dad kept reassuring me that he was in good health was that he didn't want me to worry, but I learned that his heart was already failing and the drugs wouldn't be able to help for much longer. The only way to ensure his safety was to fix a heart stent.

My parents gave me life and raised me for so many years, so it was impossible for me to stand by and watch as my father waited for death to claim him. Hence, I was determined to make enough money to help him to get through this ordeal.

Unfortunately, God didn't give me that much time. Just after I got off work, my mom called.

She was crying over the phone as she told me how my dad's condition had worsened again. The surgery had to be done within a few days. If it was delayed any longer, his life would be put at great risk. When I received the call, my knees went weak, and my hands couldn't stop shaking.

This news caused my mind to draw a complete blank, and all I could hear was a buzzing sound in my ears.

It took me a long time to calm myself down. The first thing I did was call Natalie to relay the news.

Without a word, she immediately transferred fifty thousand into my account.

Fifty thousand was equivalent to her savings over the past few years, and I felt very fortunate to have a friend who would help me unconditionally when I was in desperate need of it.

Even so, after throwing in the twenty thousand I had, I was still short of more than a hundred thousand, which wasn't a small amount in my eyes. At that moment, I had no idea how or where I was going to gather that much money for the surgery.

Back at Natalie's, I paced around the house, growing restless as I thought about the remaining amount of money I needed to raise for the surgery.

“Anna, calm down. We'll definitely think of something. Your dad will be fine.”

Finally, I plopped down onto the couch. Natalie sat next to me and patted my shoulder to comfort me.

After finding out about what happened to my dad, Natalie thoughtfully took a day off from work to help me come up with a solution. Although she didn't have a lot of money, I was touched by her gesture and felt immensely grateful to have her as my friend.

 

Chapter 27

“What am I going to do? I still need more than a hundred thousand for the surgery. Where am I going to find that kind of money in just a few days? If I can't get the money, my dad's life will be in danger.”

Tears poured down my cheeks as I looked at Natalie with a hopeless gaze. Panic seized me at the thought of losing my dad.

“Don't cry, Anna. We'll think something. Besides, doctors love exaggerating. I'm sure your dad's condition isn't as bad as what the doctor said. Just calm down first. We'll find a way together.”

Natalie hugged me tight and repeatedly consoled me.

I knew she only said that to calm me down, but my dad was counting on me to raise the money. Yet, I was powerless; I could not do anything. But how could I possibly watch my dad die like that?

“Wait, don't you know Michael Shaw personally? He's the richest man in Avenport. He can help you!”

In my state of despair, Natalie mentioned Michael's name out of the blue.

I hadn't heard that name in a long time, and my heart skipped a beat upon hearing it again. In an instant, I saw a glimmer of hope.

To my chagrin, I had made it clear to Michael the last time that we didn't owe each other anything. If I suddenly went up to him asking for money, he probably wouldn't lend it to me. We weren't even that familiar with each other, to begin with.

Not to mention, he'd probably think I had some kind of ulterior motive for approaching him. I had heard

rumors of him being stingy. Hence, the chances of successfully borrowing money from him were close to zero.

So I decided to come on to him again. This way, I'd be able to borrow money from him with good reason. But Michael was a big shot in Avenport; he wasn't someone I could just see whenever I wanted to.

Without telling Natalie my plan, I took a day off from work the next day and went to Michael's office building, hoping to have a chance encounter.

To my dismay, the headquarters had at least a few thousand employees. My eyes would probably fall out if I waited here and scanned each person who emerged from the building.

Later on, an idea popped up in my mind. I sneaked into the building's underground parking. When we had car sex the other time, I had paid special attention to his car plate number. Besides, I doubted many people could afford a luxury car that cost millions.

Thank goodness my effort paid off. After searching for almost half an hour, I finally found Michael's car. I breathed a long sigh of relief once I confirmed he was in the office.

After that, I decided to wait for the man. Michael would definitely come here to get his car after work. When that happened, I'd pretend to bump into him by chance.

To seduce Michael, I had paid special care in preparing myself. I chose a pale yellow skin-tight mini dress and paired it with four-inch heels. Besides that, I had also made sure to put on light makeup.

Glancing at my watch, I found that it was already past four and time to get off work as there were already employees driving off in their respective cars.

I had a busty figure, to begin with. Coupled with my sexy outfit, many men approached me and offered to give me a ride. Of course, I refused all of them. Michael was my target; I didn't have time to fool around with anyone else.

As all the cars were almost gone, the parking lot seemed vacant and quiet. Even then, I saw no sign of Michael.

If I didn't see his car still parked in the same spot, I would've suspected that he had already left.

As I rarely wore heels that high, my feet were starting to hurt after standing for two hours in the parking lot. I was really going all out just to successfully sleep with Michael.

Finally, a figure entered my line of sight - Michael was here. Dressed in a black suit, he looked even more regal and unapproachable. He seemed to constantly emanate a terrifying aura that kept others at a respectful distance.

I hid in a corner and took out a compact mirror from my bag to check my makeup. Once satisfied, I walked out in a nonchalant manner.

Michael spotted me almost immediately, and I could clearly detect the surprise flashing in his eyes.

He strode toward me and stopped right in front of me. Then, he looked me up and down at a tantalizingly slow pace. Perhaps it was because I was dressed more sexily, but a hint of a smile appeared on his face as he asked, “What are you doing here?”

It had been more than a month since we had sex, and we never contacted each other during this period of time. Perhaps he had forgotten all about me just like I did him. Hence, my sudden appearance must have surprised him.

“I'm here to see you.”

I admitted my purpose of coming here and met his gaze unflinchingly.

“Oh? You're here to see me? Did I hear that wrongly? I clearly remember you telling me we don't owe each other anything, so why are you here to see me all of a sudden? What's the real reason?”

He was indeed an experienced businessman, seeing as he could easily tell my intentions weren't as simple. But before I got him into bed, I couldn't tell him my true intention just yet.

“I've been feeling lonely and empty lately. I'm craving human touch, and if I'm being honest, I miss the way your c*ck felt inside me. Is this a good enough of a reason for you?”

As soon as I said this, Michael's face darkened, and his eyes filled with discontent.

Leaning closer to him, I boldly snaked my arms around his neck. I tilted my chin up to kiss him, but he pushed me away before I could.

A small frown was on his face, and a trace of resistance was in his obsidian eyes.

“You're getting more and more slutty, Anna.”

“Wasn't that what you've always thought about me? Why are you so bothered about it today?” I retorted with a hint of sarcasm in my tone.

Smiling seductively, my eyes slowly traveled from his chest, trailing all the way down to his crotch.

Perhaps he didn't like seeing me behave so unrestrainedly because his expression grew darker as anger flickered in his eyes. I wouldn't be surprised if he shoved me away.

“This little trick of yours may have worked the first time, but it's useless on me now.” His voice was as cold as ice.

Although what I said had angered him, he didn't play along with me like he had the first time. It seemed like he had already seen through my facade.

I laughed awkwardly. “Really? I don't remember anything at all. I must've had too much to drink that night.”

After being so ruthlessly exposed, the mask on my face cracked to reveal a sheepish smile.

 

Chapter 28

“Didn't I satisfy you the last time? I never thought an innocent-looking girl like you would turn out to be insatiable. I really underestimated you, Anna.”

It seemed like Michael never intended to let me off. His words enraged me; he was insulting me. Even though I came to him with ulterior motives, I was actually a rather conservative woman in nature. Being called insatiable by a man left a bitter taste in my mouth.

The smile on my face instantly vanished, and I stared at Michael coldly. “Sorry. I came to the wrong person.”

With that, I spun around to leave, but he snagged my wrist and yanked me back against his chest.

Circling me tightly in his arms, he inched his face closer to mine with a wicked smile playing on his lips. “Since you're so eager to roll in the sheets with me, I guess I have no choice but to give you what you want.”

Although this meant he agreed to have sex with me, every word he said was a blow to my pride, even more so when I was a very prideful woman. Thus, I immediately shoved him away.

Yes, I was severely short of money, but that didn't mean I would allow a man to insult me like that. Coming to see Michael was a mistake.

“Let's just pretend I never came to see you today. From now on, we won't ever see each other again!” I said frostily.

With that, I turned around and prepared to walk away, but Michael was faster. He shot forward and

blocked my way.

“Don't you think it's a little too late to walk away now? You were the one who seduced me first, Anna.”

Before I could react, the man opened his car door and shoved me in.

I initially wanted to resist, but at the thought of my dad, I endured the humiliation I was feeling and stayed seated in his car.

The car sped along the road at an insane pace. Thankfully, Michael was a skilled driver.

“Where are we going?” I glanced at the man's side profile and asked blandly.

“To some place where it's convenient for what we're about to do, of course. Don't tell me you want to do it in the car again in broad daylight?”

Michael didn't even look at me when he answered my question, but what he said made me blush a beetroot read as my mind was automatically brought back to that wild scene in the car.

I had slept with him again right here, in the same car and same seat.

Turning my face to look out the window, I remained silent the whole ride.

He made the car fly, and we soon arrived at a chain hotel. After getting out of the car, I looked up and saw that it was a five-star hotel.

I couldn't help but grumble inwardly. This guy must be filthy rich. We're only going to have sex. Is it really necessary to choose a five-star hotel? One night here would probably cost me half a month's salary. The lives of rich people are truly different from ordinary ones.

“Michael, a five-star hotel isn't necessary, is it? Just think about it. We're just going in for a while. I don't think this is an economical choice...” I turned to look at him and voiced out in a cautious tone.

My purpose was to sleep with Michael, not to sleep in a five-star hotel. A round of sex wouldn't take that long either. Coming to a five-star hotel was just too over the top.

Michael turned to briefly glance at me and replied, “Coming here is, in fact, the most economical choice. I don't need to spend money here.”

“You won't need to spend money? Why?” I followed him in and asked in a soft voice.

“Because I own this hotel. Do you think I'd need to pay to rest here for a while?”

The man stopped in his tracks and looked at me with mild exasperation.

“What? You own this hotel?”

I gaped at him in disbelief. He owns this hotel? But this is a five-star chain hotel... I heard that there are eighty-six of them all over the country. I never expected that he'd be the owner.

I can only imagine the monthly turnover for so many hotels combined. Just how rich is this guy?

I knew he dabbled in many businesses, but I never thought his involvement would be so widespread

and large-scale.

“Are you surprised?”

He raised his brows, but before I could answer, he grabbed my hand and led me in.

As soon as we reached the front desk, the manager came forward to serve us. Upon seeing that it was Michael, he was visibly stunned.

“Mr. Shaw, what brings you here? Is there something about us you're not satisfied with?”

The manager came to stand before Michael and bowed slightly. From the apprehensive look on his face, I could see that he was very nervous.

A laugh threatened to escape my lips upon witnessing this scene. I wondered just how strict Michael had to be to cause the manager from his own hotel to be so terrified upon seeing him.

Michael didn't answer the manager's question. Instead, he shot him a cursory glance and ordered, “Get me a room. I'm here to rest.”

“Huh?” The manager's eyes widened in surprise, but when he saw Michael's hostile expression, he immediately agreed, “Yes, Mr. Shaw. Please follow me.”

The manager led us to a presidential suite on the eighteenth floor. There was no denying that rich people knew how to enjoy their lives. A presidential suite was equivalent to a three-bedroom apartment, and there were also all kinds of home appliances provided.

This was my first time in a presidential suite. Just as I was looking around the place with awe sprawled on my face, Michael abruptly pushed me against the wall beside the door. Before I could register what was going on, he smashed his lips against mine.

 

Chapter 29

Electricity shot through me, and soon, my entire body felt weak. I could only lie on the bed and let Michael have his way with me.

After what seemed like ages, he was finally done.

He was breathing heavily as he lay on top of me, and he only pushed himself off my body when he was satisfied.

Completely drained of strength, I merely closed my eyes to rest.

The man lay down next to me and stared at me with inquisitive, dark eyes.

“Tell me. Why did you really come looking for me?”

There was a demand in his tone, which was a stark contrast to the gentle way he had spoken to me during our lovemaking session just now.

I was bewildered by the change in his attitude. Is it true what they say? Do men truly become entirely different people after pulling up their pants?

“Why would you ask that?”

Due to his sudden change in attitude, I didn't immediately reveal my true purpose in seeking him out. I wanted to test the waters first.

“Did you think I'd believe your little speech about missing my c*ck earlier? You don't strike me as a

wanton woman, Anna.”

As he looked at me in the eyes, his tone grew colder than before.

My brows creased slightly, and I shot him an angry glare. Does this man live for insulting others?

Faced with my silence, Michael questioned once more in a harsher tone, “So? What's your real reason?”

“Give me two hundred thousand!” I finally blurted out.

I clearly detected the flicker of surprise in his eyes, but soon, his expression hardened, and he mocked, “You're a greedy little thing, aren't you? Do you really think your one time is worth two hundred thousand?”

His flinty eyes bored into me, devoid of all trace of the warmth from earlier.

“Two hundred thousand is nothing to you. Besides, I gave my first time to you. Just treat it as you compensating me.”

I knew it was absolutely shameless of me to say this since I was the one who seduced him in the first place. Asking him to compensate me was ridiculous, but I was severely out of options. To gather enough money for my dad's surgery, I had to do this.

When it came to my dad's life, my pride and dignity were not worth mentioning. To ensure he could live healthily, there was nothing I wouldn't do.

But what Michael said next made my blood boil.

“You're right. Two hundred thousand is nothing to me, but do you think your first time is worth that amount? Besides, how do I know if you were really a virgin and didn't undergo hymen restoration surgery? You were with Justin for so many years. Don't tell me the two of you have never slept together?”

Chapter 30

“What's that supposed to mean?” I glared vehemently at him and demanded.

This man is doubting the legitimacy of my virginity! Am I really such a frivolous woman to him?

But come to think of it, if I were a virtuous woman, why would I have come on to him? Why would I have sex with him again and again? I guess I really am shameless.

“The surgery for hymen restoration isn't that expensive nowadays, and the effect is exceptionally good. They can make it seem exactly like the first time,” Michael said pointedly while studying me with a thoughtful gaze.

I was even more furious upon hearing that. I couldn't believe how petty this man was and why he would assume such a thing about me.

Although I had approached him with a personal agenda, he had no right to humiliate me like this!

Back then when I met him at the bar was really my first time. Hymen restoration? Seriously? Only he can think of something like that! I never expected such a handsome man to have such a black heart. What a waste of his good looks!

“Can you stop having such degrading thoughts about others? I know I'm nothing but a frivolous woman to you, but just so you know, I wouldn't have come looking for you if I didn't really need this money!” I retorted angrily.

My eyes welled up with tears, but I refused to let them fall.

Seeing the tears in my eyes, Michael's expression stiffened, and his brows drew together slightly. Then, he sat up and took out a checkbook from his pocket before swiftly filling in the details.

My heart raced upon seeing him do so. Is he going to lend me two hundred thousand?

After writing the cheque, he handed it to me. Excitement shot through me, and I immediately reached out to take it.

But right before my fingers touched the cheque, he withdrew it with a straight face. I glowered at him and pursed my lips tightly. Is he messing with me? Why did he write it if he's not going to give it to me?

I was about to reprimand him when he spoke again. “I can give you two hundred thousand, on one condition.”

His calculating gaze did not go unnoticed by me.

I had already expected that he wouldn't give me the money so easily. People like him never made bad deals.

“What is it? As long as it's within my capabilities, I'll do it.”

I didn't have any other choice. As long as it didn't involve killing, I'd agree to do it in a heartbeat. My dad needed the money for his surgery, and there was no room for hesitation.

Looking into my eyes, Michael said with a serious expression, “Be mine.”

My eyes widened in shock, and I stared at him with incredulity. “What did you say?”

“Or, to be more precise, I want you to be my lover. You must be there whenever I need you, and you can never refuse me.”

I felt as though a bucket of ice water had just been dumped on me. So... he wants us to be friends with benefits.

I peered at him and asked awkwardly, “Is there any other option besides this?”

“Yes.”

“Which is?”

I looked at him expectantly, hoping there was a better option than being friends with benefits because I really couldn't bring myself to agree to that.

“Leave right now without the money.”

Michael pinned me with a steely gaze, refusing to back down.

It was obvious that I had no other choice besides agreeing to his terms.

I warred with myself for a long time, but upon seeing him keeping the cheque, I finally gave in. “Fine. I agree.”

The only way I could get the two hundred thousand was to agree to his condition. If I didn't, I wouldn't

be able to settle my dad's surgery fee.

Michael's lips curved into a triumphant smile, and he threw the cheque in front of me.

My throat closed up from emotion as I picked up the cheque and carefully slipped it into my bag.

When he watched me put the cheque away so carefully, he queried once more. “Now tell me why you need two hundred thousand.”

Hence, I told him about my dad's illness, not leaving out a single detail as I saw no need to hide anything. Besides, he could always find out the truth even if I lied.

After listening to my explanation, Michael frowned slightly. Thankfully, he didn't make things difficult for me anymore. When he stood up and started getting dressed, I followed suit.

Subsequently, I grabbed my bag and prepared to leave. Since he was done with me, there was no reason for me to stay.

As I made my way toward the door, he called out abruptly, “Wait for me. I'll send you home.”

Truth be told, I didn't want to spend any more time with him than necessary. The thought of my current relationship with him sent a wave of indignance through me.

Sitting in his car had always made me uncomfortable. As I had nothing to say to him, I simply turned my face away to look out the window.

In the end, it was him who broke the awkward silence. “Where are you staying now?”

“At my friend's.” With that, I reported Natalie's address to him.

“That's very inconvenient. I'll prepare a place for you.”

Michael's brows knitted into a frown; it was as though he was genuinely displeased by the fact that I was staying at my friend's house.

“T-That's not necessary. I'm fine living with my friend. You don't need to get me a place.”

I thought Michael proposed this because we were friends with benefits. From what I knew, rich people like him were often generous to their lovers, gifting them houses and whatnot.

However, I didn't want things to be like that between us. Although I sought him out for money this time, I only wanted to get enough for my dad's surgery. I wasn't planning to accept anything more than that.

However, it seemed like I thought too highly of Michael because his explanation of why he had offered greatly irked me. But then again, we were merely friends with benefits. Of course, he wouldn't go out of his way to treat me well.

“I just think it's inconvenient for us to get it on at your friend's place. I mean, do you expect me to look for you there whenever I wanna have sex?”

He always spoke in such an unbridled manner before me. Not to mention, he managed to keep a straight face every single time. Right then, I couldn't help but wonder just how thick-skinned this man could get.

“I'll find a place myself. You don't need to worry about that. But it may take me a few days. I just started a new job and haven't gotten my first paycheck,” I replied, feeling slightly abashed.

Michael didn't comment after that. Only the frown on his face indicated that he had heard me.

When handed me his phone, I eyed him dubiously and asked, “What?”

“Your phone number. Were you expecting me to wait for you to create chance encounters every time?”