Ch. 131..140

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 131-A Den of Vice I saw them standing up out of the corner of my eye. The woman spoke to Atlas while she casually put her arm around his.

When they turned, she looked arrogantly at the diners. Although not striking, her delicate face was charming.

Atlas met my eyes with a blank face. She followed his line of sight and turned to face me.

Her entire body froze, and there was a peculiar expression on her face.

Atlas calmly led the woman away. Just before they disappeared from view, she shot me another glance.

Ivanna noticed how Atlas’s presence affected me and said, “Let’s grab some drinks.

Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt Loosen up a bit!” I raised both hands in agreement, hoping a few drinks would help me clear my head.

However, Ivanna drove us to the Newturn Bar, which I was apprehensive about. She ordered two cocktails for us, and I gulped one down without knowing what it was. Then I signaled the bartender for another.

“Hey, take it easy. Do you want to get wasted?” Ivanna raised her voice as she leaned on the bar. “Savor the taste. Even if you’re getting drunk, there’s a way to do it. And you’re doing it wrong.

I scoffed.

Ivanna leaned in to speak in my ear. “Oh, I forgot to tell you about Ryan! His background check matches his resume! He’s been back in the country for less than a month.” The music was too loud. With my muddled mind, I could only grasp that everything seemed fine. That was good enough for me.

After two drinks, my stomach felt warm. The alcohol surprised me with its intensity.

patted Ivanna, wanting to leave while I was relatively clear–headed. I wasn’t fond of this kind of place- something about it had always disgusted me.

Matthew and Melanie had sex for the first time here. It was a den of vice. The air felt tainted, making me increasingly repulsed.

The place was despicable.

I nearly stumbled as I jumped off the bar stool. A large hand grabbed my arm. A man with glazed eyes sald, “Hey, beautiful, you’ve had too much to drink! Let me take you home!” Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm I struggled but couldn’t break free from his grip. His touch felt repulsive. “Back off!” “Hey, you’re quite spirited!” His eyes leered at me. It looked like he was tipsy, too. “You’re here for a good time, aren’t you? Let me keep you company! I promise you’ll have a blast!” He slung an arm around me. I recoiled and said, “Get lost!” After seeing the man persist, Ivanna became impatient. She shoved the man, but to our surprise, he grabbed Ivanna’s arm and pulled her close in one swift motion “How about we have some fun together?” he suggested, reeking of alcohol. 1 Despite my intoxicated state, my mind remained clear. My elbow slammed into his side with all my strength. The man released his grip and doubled over in pain.

I pulled Ivanna along, swaying as we approached the exit. My head was heavy, and my legs were stiff.

Realizing our intent, the man snatched a bottle from a nearby table. Despite his pain, he chased after us..

He caught up with us in just a few steps. “Think you can run, little bitch? I’ll teach you a lesson!” The man raised the bottle above his head and brought it down toward my skull…

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 132-Coming to the Rescue I felt a rush of wind, startling me. I covered my head and screamed, but the expected pain never came.

Instead, I heard a loud cracking sound.

It shocked me halfway sober. Frightened, I turned to see the man crashing onto a table.

Atlas was standing by our side, guarding us.

The man struggled to his feet and lunged at Atlas. I screamed, and Atlas immediately punched the man.

He howled in pain.

Despite the many stares, Atlas acted promptly. He grabbed my arm without a word and strode toward the exit. Ivanna picked up our bags and followed us outside.

“You’ve got some nerve coming to a place like this and drinking.” Atlas said with a growl.

I trembled from my close call, but Atlas’s menacing face sent shivers down my spine.

Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt He had been all smiles in the restaurant. Why did his face change when he looked at me?

“Chlo, are you okay?” Ivanna checked on me, then looked at Atlas. “Sorry about this. It was my idea to come here.” I managed a faint smile, thinking there was no point dwelling on the past. We had already had our drinks.

It’s fine. Let’s go home.” Ivanna looked awkward, glancing at me and Atlas. “Or… Mr. Atlas can give Chlo a ride?

We’ve all been drinking, so I can’t drive.” Atlas grunted in agreement. Ivanna escaped quickly, as if he had pardoned her.

I yelled, “Hey, Ivanna, are you really my friend?! Hey!” I wanted to chase after her, but Atlas yanked me back. My head spun, and I collided with his solid frame.

It left me feeling dizzy. I steadied myself and pushed him away.

“Get out of my way… Stop giving me that nasty look. Hasn’t anyone told you that you look better when you smile?” I finished with a giggle, then turned to leave.

However, Atlas scooped me up. He carried me over his shoulder and walked toward the parking lot..

Being carried intensified my dizziness, and I weakly pounded his back. “Put me down, you jerk!” Atlas ignored my protests and smacked my bum. Eventually, he settled me into the car and drove away.

My head throbbed, and I said, “I want to go home!” My objections were ignored. As a result, I let him take me wherever he wanted. The image of that delicate woman in the restaurant was all I could think of.

We returned to the resort, arriving at the same villa. Atlas carried me inside and flicked on Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm the lights.

The sudden brightness made me shield my eyes. After a while, my vision adjusted and I saw him looking at me intensely.

“Why are you looking at me like that?” I asked, unnerved.

“Why were you drinking?” He spoke in the same icy tone.

“Why do you care? I’m an adult so why can’t I drink? Am I not allowed to be happy?” I responded, my mind clearer but still tinged with boldness. “Who are you to me?” – “Who do you want me to be?” I couldn’t answer his rhetorical question. Instead, I pushed his face to the side. “Stop looking at me like that. It’s taking my breath away!” My words earned a charming smirk from him.

His eyes glinted, and he pulled me into his arms. I tried to push him away, but he held me tighter. “Don’t go to a place like that again. If you want to drink, I’ll drink with you.

I stopped struggling as his words echoed in my head. He’d drink with me?

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 133-What Are We?

The words were tantalizing, but who did he spend time with today? The thought made me chuckle bitterly.

What right did I have to interfere with his choice of company? How often had I been oblivious to that?

How could I possibly know?

“Why are you laughing?” His patience was wearing thin.

“Enough, Mr. Atlas. I wouldn’t dare ask you to keep me company.” I pouted. “A mere commoner like myself wouldn’t dare!” Truly, I wouldn’t dare. He wasn’t mine to claim, and I had to give myself a reality check. I was recently divorced and involved in legal disputes.

What right did I have to compete with anyone? Thinking about our relationship left me even more perplexed. Who was I to him?

Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt Still, seeing him with another woman caused me unexpected pain.

Did my feelings grow too fast? Had I rushed from one chapter of my life into the next? I felt heartless.

Atlas asked, “Why the sudden silence?” “What would be appropriate for us to talk about?” I asked softly, looking at him.

“Ask whatever you want!” I shrugged, flashing a smile. “I have nothing to ask!” Deep down, I believed I had no right to ask. It would only invite unnecessary trouble.

He had already figured out what I was thinking. “Your pride is too high! You’re overthinking. That girl is my cousin!” “I didn’t want to know. That’s your business! I have no right to intrude,” I said, feeling a weight lift off my shoulders.

That woman’s gaze still bothered me. Why did she look so curious when we were strangers? It was as if she had spotted someone she hadn’t seen in years.

“What would it take for you to be comfortable asking that?” He loved flipping the script and throwing the ball back into my court.

What am I to you, anyway?” I asked back.

“A woman I’ve slept with,” he said without hesitation. As I felt a surge of shame wash over me, he added, ” The only woman I’ve ever slept with.” I felt a wave of anger at first, but it faded away. I wasn’t sure if he meant to say “only,” but that one word changed everything.

“So, you can ask me anything because you’re mine.” He scrutinized me. “Do you still think you have no right?” Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm I smiled and said nothing.

He pulled me close and asked, “What’s wrong? You seem distracted today.” Honestly, I had meant to ask him if I was his only one. He had always helped me and was the only one who made a difference. I relied on him, and even though I wanted to avoid the topic, it still bothered me.

I was at a loss. What did it all mean?

“It’s nothing. I’m… tired! I’d like to go back.” His gaze peered into my soul, and I said, “Don’t look at me like I’m a criminal.” Atlas grinned, then leaned down to peck me on the lips. “Say what you’re thinking next time. Don’t torment yourself.” I stood there, stunned. Seeing my subdued mood, he said, “If you want to go home, I’ll take you.” His offer to drive me home surprised me. Why did I feel reluctant? I quickly stood up, feigning ant eagerness to get home. 1 Now that things were clear, I was pleased. After all, she was just his cousin. However, this cousin had opened up a whole new understanding of Atlas for me.

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 134-A Curveball I thought the situation with his cousin had been resolved, but I soon found myself face–to– face with her.

On Monday, Ryan officially joined the team. His presence gave me a boost of energy, as if he had lifted half of the weight off my shoulders.

As a show of trust, I gave Ryan a detailed account of Tanum Corporation’s entire development process, including how it had been hollowed out.

He even playfully referred to it as my second venture.

On Tuesday, I went to ATL Empire for a meeting. Atlas’s cousin was there instead of him.

She looked stunning in a pantsuit and came to our project meeting.

Throughout the meeting, her gaze remained locked on me, making me uneasy.

It was not until the meeting was over and Carol and I were walking out that she called, “Ms. Chloe!” I turned around and saw her approaching with a cheerful smile. “You’re Ms. Chloe, right?” Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt “Yes, I’m Chloe Hartz!” I nodded, extending my hand in a friendly gesture. After all, this was ATL Empire, and I needed to maintain decorum.

“Stella White!” She shook my hand but didn’t release it. Her eyes remained fixed on my face.

I smiled and asked, “Do you know me?” “No, I just found you beautiful and felt like I’d seen you before!” Her guarded words suggested she wasn’t being truthful. “I didn’t expect such a major project at ATL Empire, and a woman as a partner, no less! You seem quite impressive. I’ll have to learn from you!” Her words were kind, and I modestly said, “I’ve just been fortunate!” “Let’s exchange numbers! It’ll be convenient for us to stay in touch!” Her eyes were sincere, and she had her phone ready, She left me no choice but to exchange numbers. “I don’t text much, so I might be slow to reply sometimes. I hope you don’t mind!” “Sure, let’s grab a coffee sometime. I’m new to Foswood and don’t have many friends yet!

Of course, only if it doesn’t inconvenience you!” “No problem!” I assured her. “I should head back now. There’s still work waiting for me at the office.” way As Carol and I left, I saw out of the corner of my eye that Stella was standing still in the hallway. She was staring at me as I walked away.

I I had a strange feeling about Stella. There was something peculiar about how she looked Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm at me.

We had welcomed several new team members in the last few days, and the office felt lively.

However, as soon as I returned to my office, Josh Miller came in. He was in charge of procurement. “Ms. Chloe, several suppliers have ended their contracts with us!” I glanced at the report he handed me. These were the leading suppliers of our essential raw materials. Josh looked pained. “It must be Matthew’s doing. He-” I raised my hand to stop him. I knew this was a move by Matthew to undermine me.

“Get Mr. Ryan for a meeting and have your team join us. We need to get clients for equivalent products as soon as possible. Only deals we secure ourselves will have loyalty.” I refused to believe there weren’t better partners outside of Matthew’s clientele. Fred Meyers was a prime example of that. Matthew had dismissed Fred and only thought about the cost.

I encouraged my staff to aim for high–quality endeavors. The proposal made my heart skip a beat. Matthew only cared about profits. Didn’t that mean I had a chance to strike back?

A plan formed in my mind.

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 135-A Small World I immediately shook my head. Forget it. I shouldn’t be too ruthless. Matthew’s cruelty didn’t mean I had to retaliate in kind.

We had once been a married couple, and even though we had divorced, bitterness was unnecessary. Let the bridges burn. There was no need for a fight to the death.

I found myself deep in contemplation. My mindset became more balanced with Ryan’s help at the company, and the previous resentment gradually faded away.

Instead of fighting with Matthew, developing my business seemed more worthwhile. He might have bitten me, but I didn’t need to bite back. After all, he was still Ava’s dad.

I He hadn’t gained much from me, so stepping back would be better. However, I didn’t expect Matthew to back me into a corner.

start!

project, Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt Over the next few days, one problem after another came up. Just as we were about to he left me with no option. What was the point of the project without these supplies? He was pushing me to the edge.

Since Ryan took over Tanum Corporation, he brought in some big clients. Fixing this problem became very important. I had no choice but to talk to suppliers myself. With Ryan leading the way, I had the confidence to go all out.

Atlas seemed to be very occupied lately. We were both busy, and even phone calls were infrequent.

However, Stella had called me twice and exchanged small talk. We sometimes ran into each other at business meetings.

She was a trainee manager at ATL Empire, assigned by the headquarters. I didn’t know she had a connection with the main office.

Stella called me when I got off the train in Foswood, asking where I was. I told her the truth.

She seemed disappointed. “I was hoping to invite you to dinner.” “In that case, let’s have dinner! I’m starving!” She had invited me several times, so declining wouldn’t be right.

“Really?” Her interest was piqued. “Then, how about we go to the revolving restaurant we went to last time? I liked it there!” “Alright, but it’ll take me about half an hour to get there.” “No problem, I’ll wait for you!” She said with pleasure, “See you in a bit!” I found my car in the parking lot. I was going to change clothes before heading to the restaurant, but I was worried I would be late.

a small world, as they say. At the elevator, I encountered Matthew and Melanie.

Melanie frowned at my disheveled state. “You look like a poor wretch, yet you dare to come here!” Her words drew the attention of people around us, and their eyes filled with scorn.

As for Matthew, his eyes held a mixture of emotions. His lips twitched slightly as he said, “Chlo!” I remained composed and only looked at the elevator display.

Matthew seemed smitten with his sister. She was quite the attention seeker, and he paraded her around.

Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm Such moments were rare when we were together, but that was my fault.

I always declined his romantic advances, preferring to eat at home for convenience and cleanliness. That was my philosophy. It seemed laughable now, as I had reserved all my romantic opportunities with Matthew for other women.

No, she had always been there. It disgusted me that they’ve been together since Melanie was in high school.

When the elevator finally arrived, I got in. They stood in front of me, Matthew stood tall, appearing quite Imposing. Melanie clung to him with faux innocence.

Then she called him honey, which sent shivers down my spine. He went from being her brother to her partner.

Upon entering the restaurant, I spotted Stella. She waved with a sweet smile.

I couldn’t help but feel wary of her gaze. It seemed to circle my face as if she were searching for answers.

After I sat down, I could see that Stella was beautifully dressed. She had the air of a refined woman, and I felt like an ugly duckling next to her.

She said, “Ms. Chloe, I invited Atlas, too!”

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 136-The Quirky Cousin I was surprised Stella invited Atlas to join us.

“He might be late since he went to Operose. He’s on his way back now, so we don’t have to wait for him to start eating,” she casually explained, “I impulsively decided to invite him. Atlas called me and asked what I wanted to eat, but I told him about our meal. You don’t mind, do you?” I replied, “Of course not!” Although I said that, I felt uneasy. I felt I wasn’t telling Stella the truth when I said I didn’t mind. Still, I couldn’t tell this sincere and harmless girl that.

“That’s good,” she said, handing me the menu, “I ordered a few dishes since it’s our first meal together. I don’t know what you like, so please choose.” Her warmth made her more approachable. It differed from our first encounter when she seemed more. indifferent and arrogant. I remembered how she glanced at the other diners the other day. Her expression was a significant contrast from her current one. She seemed like two different people.

Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt I chose dishes from the menu and returned it to the waiter. Then, I turned to Stella and said, “I’m sorry for not contacting you much lately. I’ve been busy.” “Hey, there’s no need to be so formal. I know you’re busy,” Stella had a pleasant voice, “I admire you for having your own company.” I was surprised that someone still admired me despite my company’s struggles. Stella’s comment sounded somewhat sarcastic, but I couldn’t blame her for not knowing its struggles.

Soon after, our dishes arrived, and Lasked her, “Mr. Atlas must be busy with work as an assistant. Are you sure we don’t have to wait for him to eat?” “A–Assistant?” Stella became wide–eyed and then quickly hid her surprise. “Oh, we don’t need to wait.” I felt I had misspoken. “D–Did I…say anything wrong?” “No, no! We can start without him! Besides, I’m sure you’re hungry. He might take a while to reach us, so why wait? Let’s eat while we wait.” Stella looked mischievous, but it was endearing.

Halfway through our meal, Atlas strode into the restaurant. He drew everyone’s attention upon entering. I felt nervous while Stella appeared excited and continued gazing at him affectionately.

Atlas remained composed as he glanced at me with a faint smirk, saying, “Sorry I’m late.” He sat beside me while Stella continued to smile. She playfully scolded Atlas, “You’re too slow. We would’ve finished and left if you came any later.” “Traffic was crazy in the city,” he replied as he took the menu from the waiter to order a few dishes.” Excuse me, I’ll go wash my hands.” When he got up and headed to the restroom, I sensed an icy gaze on me from a distance. I knew it must be Melanie and thought she didn’t hold back her contempt for me.

Stella asked, “Ms. Chloe, did you know Atlas before working with him?” I glanced at her and answered truthfully, “No, I didn’t. We only met after starting work together.” “Oh, no wonder,” she murmured.

Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm saw This cousin of Atlas seemed quirky and hard to read. I was about to ask her why she said that, but I s Atlas returning from the restroom. He glanced at me as he sat down and asked, “Were you on a business trip?” I felt slightly embarrassed when I realized he was referring to my messy appearance. “Y– Yeah, in Rockbury, I came straight here after getting off the train. I heard from Ms. Stella that you went to Operose.

I was only casually asking, but I noticed Atlas glancing at Stella. A subtle expression was in his eyes, something I couldn’t place. I glanced at Stella, who was still smiling as if nothing was wrong.

Atlas and Stella gave off a vibe I couldn’t explain when they were together. I wasn’t sure what was wrong.

However, I felt like the outsider among us I took the opportunity to excuse myself and went to the restroom. I looked in the mirror as I washed my hands, only to see Melanie standing behind me. She scared me, and I wondered how long she had been

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 137-Embarrassed to the Core I glared at Melanie through the mirror and said, “You’re like a ghost that haunts me. What are you trying to pull now?” “Hahaha! You’re so shameless, Chloe. He already has someone special in his heart, and you’re tagging along to their dinner? Did you forget you’re a divorced woman? Do you think you’re worthy of a wealthy.

man?” “That’s not for you to decide. I advise you to be kind for your unborn child’s sake,” I retorted while taking a paper towel to wipe my hands.

As I turned to leave, Melanie realized I wouldn’t entertain her. She stood in my way, saying, “I’ll see how long you can keep this up, bitch. Sooner or later, you’ll be crying your eyes out.” When she said those words, Stella entered the restroom. She saw my and Melanie’s Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt confrontation and stood beside me. Stella grabbed my arm and asked, “Ms. Chloe, what’s happening?” Her eyes darted between me and Melanie.

Melanie gave Stella a once–over and then smirked. “Hey, gorgeous. You should be wary of the women around you. They might be interested in your man.” Her words made me feel awkward. “Melanie, you’re going too far-” “If anyone’s going too far, it’s you!‘ Someone interjected. When I turned to look, it was Matthew. He approached Melanie, his voice low and dangerous, “Chloe, do you want to pick a fight with her?” He pulled Melanie into his embrace as he spoke. Then, he turned to me and continued, “Don’t blame me for retaliating if you keep this up. Did you forget your company’s suppliers only listen to my orders?” I glared at Matthew. “Is that a challenge, Matt? If you’re a man, you should come at me directly instead of scheming behind my back. Your orders? Let me tell you something. I don’t want to associate with anyone who listens to your orders.” “Don’t be stubborn, Chloe. You should behave yourself if you want Tanum Corporation to survive.

Otherwise, I’ll ensure you’re on the losing end and- Before he could finish, an indifferent voice interrupted him, “Is that so? I’d like to see who dares to say that.” Matthew turned around and saw Atlas standing hostile behind him. Matthew paled, and his lips twitched.

Atlas stared daggers at Matthew, saying, “Who do you think you are? You’re incapable of dominating the Matthew stared at Atlas, then held Melanie and walked away. “Let’s go!” While they left, Stella asked me, “Who were they?” Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm I briefly answered, “My ex–husband.” Stella frowned but quickly concealed her thoughts and pulled my arm. “Let’s go back to our seats.” She walked beside me and whispered, “Why were they so arrogant?” However, I couldn’t answer because I felt humiliated. It seemed I needed to change these suppliers as soon as possible.

After returning to our seats, Atlas asked about my recent situation. I explained, and he looked at me thoughtfully, saying, “I’ll give you a month to change all the previous suppliers and resolve all the issues.” “No problem!” I replied eagerly.

We left the restaurant after dinner, and I bid them farewell at the entrance. I didn’t want to stay after what Matthew and Melanie pulled off. I was embarrassed about Stella witnessing all that.

I didn’t need to worry about Stella with Atlas present. Still, I sensed Atlas had something else to say but didn’t bring it up out of consideration for Stella.

I My heart grew empty as I drove away, but I didn’t know why.

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 138-I Want to Meet Him I slumped onto the couch when I got home. I was exhausted as I gazed at the ceiling, thinking I was wrong to assume everything would go smoothly after divorcing Matthew.

Despite my efforts to move forward, I felt trapped.

I didn’t know what Matthew and his “allies” aimed for. Beside them, it seemed an unseen force was pushing me to move. I doubted whether my previous decisions were correct.

It was good for the company to have projects, but I also felt tied down. I couldn’t turn back, even if it meant facing tremendous challenges.

My mom must’ve heard me and realized I hadn’t returned to my room, so she quietly came downstairs. Her heart ached when she saw me looking so tired. She sat beside me, saying, “You look exhausted.” I smiled bitterly and nodded. “Yeah. Mom, why do we have to grow up?” I asked softly.

Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt My mom stroked my hair gently. “It’s a long journey, and you must learn to stop and smell the roses.” “Tanum is my dream and the result of my hard work. Although it’s undergoing significant changes, want to drag it down. I won’t allow them to do that. I can’t let it fail under my leadership.

some “I didn’t want to be so ruthless before this, but they went too far and left me no choice.

Some just don’t deserve kindness.” My mom’s hand trembled. “Is it that scumbag again?

Her words made me realize I had said too much. I got up, saying, “Mom, don’t worry. I’ve sorted things at the company. I hired someone to help, and he’s also from our hometown.

Oh, you know him too. Do you remember Ryan?” “The one from the same school as you? my mom asked.

“Yes, that’s him. He just returned to the country, and I hired him to work in my company.” “Oh, that’s great! It’s nice to have someone from the same hometown looking out for you.

Invite him for dinner one day. I remember him taking good care of you when you started college!” My mom’s eyes sparkled.

“Yeah, that’s him,” I assured her, “I’ll invite him for dinner soon.” Suddenly, my phone rang, and I removed it from my bag to check the caller ID. I saw Atlas’s name and told my mom, “I’m okay, mom. You can go to bed now. I’ll go to my room, too.” I answered the call while heading upstairs. Atlas asked, “Are you home already?” “Yeah, I’m home,” I replied as I entered my room.

Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm “I’ll be heading to Quillbrooke tomorrow for about two weeks. If there are any issues related to ATL Empire, remember to wait for me to handle it when I return,” he said thoughtfully.

I froze and wondered what he meant. I had never heard him speak so seriously about work matters, sol asked, “Is something wrong?” Although I couldn’t see his expression, I sensed something had happened and felt uneasy.

“You don’t need to worry about matters concerning the headquarters. I just want you to be prepared if anything happens during my absence. As I said, you must replace Tanum Corporation’s previous suppliers within one month, no matter what.” “Got it,” I promised solemnly. Still, I couldn’t help but ask, “Did I cause any trouble for you?” My heart was in my throat, and I had a slight headache. It seemed I had caused trouble for Atlas again.

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 139-Internal Issues I could only hear Atlas’s breath on the other end. Finally, he said, “You’ve been causing trouble for me for a long time now. What should we do about it?” I tensed up and tightened my grip on the phone. Atlas’s words caught me off guard, and I asked, “W–What do you mean?” “You should give yourself to me,” he said playfully.

I found him ridiculous. We were discussing something serious, yet he started joking with me.

“Y–You’re..” I wanted to refute but switched to a more severe matter instead, “Did my contract affect your career? If that’s the case, I’d rather not take it.” “It’s too late,” he said, “So, you only have one option, and that is not to disappoint everyone’s expectations.

My body trembled as I gulped. After a while, Atlas whispered, ‘Are you asleep? Do you want to see me?” My mind went blank, and a longing surged within me. However, I restrained my impulses and changed the subject, “You’re going on a business trip tomorrow, and it’s too late now..

Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt I couldn’t continue. My heart raced, and my breathing became shallow. After a few seconds of silence, I started, “Then-” “All right, get some rest,” Atlas and I spoke simultaneously. My words got stuck in my throat while he withdrew his suggestion. I felt a sense of loss. I wanted to see him, and that desire made it difficult for me to remain calm.

“Wait for me to return,” Atlas’s tone was calm, but his words sounded cruel.

I hung up the phone and became breathless. I sat beside the bed and hugged myself, wondering why I refused Atlas and pretended to be reserved even though I wanted to see him.

I replayed every word he said in my mind and grew uneasy. Our cooperation might have run into trouble.

After all, Tanum Corporation and/Hartz Construction had limited experience in working with ATL Empire.

Atlas might have acted alone in this matter. Still, he was only an assistant and might’ve made some decisions that weren’t his to make. Although he had done much for me, he was right. I only had one option not to disappoint everyone.

tossed and turned all night with many questions and no answers. It was already bright outside when I forced myself to get some sleep. I didn’t get enough sleep, but my phone rang. It woke me up, and I “Ms. Chloe!” The voice woke me up a little more. I glanced at my phone and saw Johnson’s name on the caller ID. I quickly sat up and asked, “What’s wrong?” “Mr. Matthew ordered us to work with the suppliers to pressure Tanum Corporation. They want to stop your company from signing contracts with new suppliers. Mr. Matthew has the information on the suppliers you’ve recently contacted.

“I suspect someone inside your company is leaking information to him. I just wanted to remind you to be careful.” Johnson’s words pierced my ears, and I no longer felt sleepy.

No wonder Matthew was so confident last night. It seemed he knew I had hired Ryan to work for me.

“Thank you, Johnson,” I said.

Johnson sounded disappointed in Matthew, I advise you to resolve these issues as soon as possible, Ms. Chloe. I can’t understand Matthew anymore. By the way, he seems to be conspiring with Echelon Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm Group.

This company has been competing for a piece of land with ATL Empire. Also, I heard ATL Empire has experienced some internal issues lately. Echelon Group wants to take advantage of it to seize that piece of land. They seem determined.

“Matthew doesn’t mention these things to me anymore, but I suspect he has his own plans.” “Echelon Group?” I recalled the few major clients Matthew had mentioned to me.

“That’s all I have for now, Ms. Chloe. I must hang up,” Johnson reminded me, “Make sure no one in your company discovers my contact with you.

“Don’t worry. No one knows,” I assured Johnson and then hung up.

Finally, I knew Atlas went to Quillbrooke because of the internal issues in ATL Empire.

However, I still wondered if those issues somehow involved him. It would be a tricky situation if it did. And I felt increasingly anxious.

Immediately after, I freshened up, had a light breakfast, and rushed to the office.

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 140-Haven’t Heard From Him On the way to the office, I went through all of Tanum Corporation’s employees in my mind.

I didn’t believe I had made a mistake keeping a traitor in the company. After all, those who stayed had a history with me.

I wondered who among them would conspire with Matthew. Indeed, he was cunning as he played this endless game with me..

When I reached my office, I called Atlas. I wanted to confirm Johnson’s information, but Atlas had already turned off his phone. It seemed he was already on the plane. It was just as Johnson said. Those suppliers were causing a commotion.

Meanwhile, I stayed behind to manage the company while Ryan negotiated with those suppliers. It gave us an advantage since Matthew was observing me, not Ryan.

Ryan left with the information I had provided, and only I knew his whereabouts. Not even Carol knew.

There w were unfinished projects when I took over Tanum Corporation besides the ones Matthew moved. These suppliers caused a commotion about those projects, demanding payments Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt and creating a mess.

I ignored them while Carol and I gathered evidence on several significant suppliers. Ivanna had been a big help again. I even considered poaching her two assistants. They were resourceful in discovering Matthew’s shady dealings with the suppliers over the past few years.

Externally, Tanum Corporation seemed to struggle daily. Since the new manager was absent, I also kept a low profile. Rumors indicated that Tanum Corporation was on the brink of collapse. Still, I arranged for one of my former subordinates, Benjamin Smith, to oversee everything.

I even gave him a nickname, Benny. He was loyal and meticulous in his work. I had entrusted him with managing our warehouse for several years, and he had kept our inventory well– organized.

Benjamin’s wife had fallen ill before I left the company to give birth to Ava. Although I struggled then, I gave him ten thousand dollars to help his wife. Matthew even questioned me about it back then.

Nonetheless, I asked Benjamin to observe everyone in the company. I needed to find the mole because I didn’t tolerate anyone who betrayed the company. That was also why I didn’t keep Johnson.

Due to that, I assigned Josh Miller from the marketing department to handle those suppliers. When Matthew was still in charge, Josh competed with Johnson. Although I doubted Josh’s loyalty, I made him stay and deal with the chaos to test his devotion to Tanum Corporation, Still, I couldn’t help but feel anxious watching the company in chaos. Additionally, something else bothered me for the past few days–I had heard nothing from Atlas, I was worried because his phone had wonder what had happened at ATL Empire Even State who often called me hadn’t contacted me in the past few days. These two seemed to have disappeared, and thought Stella hat also gone to Quilibrooke with that in mind called Stefa The phone rang for a while before she finally answered. However, she didn’t sound enthusiastic, M Chice, what’s up?

Her tone was casual, but she sounded absentminded it Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm “Nothing in particular I have some free time today so I thought call you. Do you have time? treat you to some local specialties” I said trying to sound pleasant a She hesitated for moment before replying Maybe another time I’m Food I tightened my grip on my phone ring my suspicione might be get on Today’s Bonus Offer GET IT NOW I wondered what had happened at ATL Empire.

Even Stella, who often called me, hadn’t contacted me in the past few days. These two seemed to have disappeared, and I thought Stella had also gone to Quillbrooke. With that in mind, I called Stella.

The phone rang for a while before she finally answered. However, she didn’t sound enthusiastic, “Ms.

Chloe, what’s up?” Hertone was casual, but she sounded absent–minded.

“Nothing in particular. I have some free time today, so I thought I’d call you. Do you have time? I’ll treat you to some local specialties,” I said, trying to sound pleasant.

She hesitated for a moment before replying. “Maybe another time. I’m not in Foswood.” I tightened my grip on my phone, realizing my suspicions might be spot–on.