Ch. 591..600

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 591-I was about to refute him when he interruptedagain.

"A project as large as the Bourdamun development landing in your hands, Chloe… Do you really believe it's not because of the Beringer family's influence? You're just lucky, that's all!" "Why do I have to ask you to help smooth things over? Isn't that a bit too much?" He gavethe impression that I was obligated to charge into battle for him.

Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt I angrily cut him off. "Put away your petty mindset! I was able to be in charge of Bourdamun because of my capabilities.

"I worked hard to build my qualifications. It's also because of my sincerity and perseverance in collaborating with ATL Empire to further Tanum's reputation. It's based on my hands-on approach, good quality, and reputation. No shortcuts… I despise those vile methods." That was when I realized that Matthew hated this standing the most. It was unlike him, who cut corners and had an extremely poor reputation.

"That is enough!" He said, “Don't act all righteous. Could you honestly say you didn't use the Beringer family's influence? Could you easily bring down Martin from Bourdamun?" I was momentarily stunned.

I hadn't expected this guy to be so familiar with Bourdamun. I had underestimated him. It seemed there were many onlookers when I wanted to acquire it.

While working to secure Bourdamun, he was ostensibly paying attention to me, probably waiting forto make a scene. I hadn't thought I would succeed, which perhaps shocked many people.

They wanted to vent their frustration when they didn't see the they hoped for.

Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm Matthew clearly enjoyed getting it off his chest. Don't think I don't know. You could only get et Bourdan un by using Atlas's power and getting close to Arthur. And Arthur used you to get close to the Beringer family in pursuit of his own future. Did you even do anything?" "That's nonsense!" I retorted.

Matthew let out a snort. "It's obvious. Otherwise, how did Nelson fall? Do you think everyone is blind? Arthur used the power of the Beringer family to straighten up Nelson." I could not help but be surprised that I had stumbled upon this by chance. His talk of chain reactions wasn't entirely baseless. I just didn't want to admit it.

Matthew put on a bitter expression. "Chloe, helpjust this once. I promise I won't cto you again. Is that not enough? Just this once, as long as you helptake down Avalon Hills and that annoying Liora.

"I promise, from now on, I'll listen to you. Whatever you tellto do, I will gladly play the supporting role. Can't you agree, honey?" With a pitiful expression, he reached out to grab my wrist. I jerked my hand away abruptly.

"Matthew, get a grip! Even if I were still your wife, I wouldn't do something like this, especially not for someone like you. The Beringer family is my family, not a tool forto use. Don't even think about exploiting the Beringer family. It's out of the question!" I picked up my bag, adding, "Matthew, this is not the way to do business. You need to put your heart into it and not resort to shortcuts Look at where you are today. If even Liora can sweep you aside, you should consider why you ended up like this." "You have a share of the blfor where I am today, Chloe!" Matthew roared at me, his eyes gleaming.

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 592-I was seething, and our exchange was nothing short of a verbal sparring match.

"You should know better than anyone that it's never too late to mend fences. Don't dwell on irrelevant things," I countered sharply.

Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt "I conduct myself with transparency. Please don't judge my integrity based on your small-mindedness. It was my work, not spersonal connection, that got the project in Bourdamun. Don't try your tricks on me! "The only way to defeat Liora is through your own actions. Use your brain. Why do you think she is withdrawing funds now? She clearly believes she has secured Avalon Hills, and she's trying to capitalize on this opportunity to take over Ardora." Both of us were aware of the unspoken truth, but we were avoiding the issue. If I were to gloss over it, he wouldn't realize his mistakes.

"Matthew, your current situation is entirely your fault. How could the wolf have entered the house if you had pursued development without colluding with the Thompson family?" Matthew couldn't contain himself as I spoke these words.

"Enough already, Chloe. I asked for your help to devise a solution, not for you to act all high and mighty, lecturinglike a saint. What right do you have to shout and scream at me? You're noble, and you're awesome. I got it." Apparently, my arguments were hitting a nerve with his pride.

"Fine, let's just forget I said anything," I said, walking toward the exit.

Matthew hesitated, then ran over, blocking my path. He looked athelplessly.

"Chlo, can we talk calmly? Why would I seek your assistance if I wasn't backed into a corner? I just don't want others to seeas a joke. Only you understand me. I still care about my reputation, but I can't overcthis hurdle." His sudden admission caughtoff guard. To be honest, I wasn't feeling great either.

Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm "I've said it before, only you can save yourself." I stood at the doorway, looking at him. My tone softened a bit. "She just wants to negotiate with you to change ownership. You can seize her psychological weakness and fight her with her tactics." This was my pointer to him. However, he looked atwith confusion.

Just then, the food I ordered arrived.

Matthew immediately saw it as a lifeline and pulledinto an embrace. "Look, your food is here. Eat first before leaving, okay? Don't go on an empty stomach." S I struggled for a moment, shaking off his hand. "If you have something to say, say it. But don't touch me!" His touch was still repulsive to me. It made my stomach churn every time.

Seeing his hopeful eyes, I reluctantly gave could returned. Besides, I t just stand by and wa Liora withdraw from Ardort SW belongs to englishS Content I have to help Matthew get through this. Only then can I complete my plan. Otherwise, all my efforts would be wasted.

Matthew's face lit up with a relieved е smile when I turned back. It was as if a heavy burden had been lifted.

"Thank you, Chlo! I knew you still cared about me!" Content belongs to Św"Enough, don't make it sound so cheesy. I just don't want you bothering me!" I started eating since I was hungry and genuinely tired. Particularly now that I was overcwith fatigue. Matthew quickly picked a dish for me. Since our separation, this was the first twe ate at the stable. Suddenly, I thought of Atlas. I hoped that the seat oppositewould always be Atlas's.

While eating and facing Matthew, I said, "Are all of Ardora's projects currently in your hands?" This question caught Matthew off guard, and he seemed to be contemplating whether or not to tellthe truth. This action conveyed that he still hadn't fully trusted me.

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 593-It was understandable for two rival companies, especially fierce competitors like us, to be cautious. So, I approached the topic differently.

"You don't have to givethe details. I'm just using it as an example. You shouldn't be concerned if you're in charge of these projects, have signed contracts, and have the power to negotiate and oversee construction. Stand tall, use it as leverage, and negotiate with her." As I continued eating, I offered Matthew advice and suggestions.

Matthew finally disclosed a few unfavorable aspects, and I pondered, providing him with guidance and a well-thought-out plan. Matthew's face lit up, smiling and feeling somewhat triumphant.

I glanced disdainfully at him, set down my utensils, and reached for a few napkins to dab at the corners of my mouth.

Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt "Now, it's up to you on how to proceed. You must establish a solid foundation with the subcontractors. That's crucial. If the partners don't turn against you, you've won," I explained clearly. This was Atticus's idea.

Everything might seem simple, but executing it wasn't easy. After all, there were several major projects, and Liora had put in a lot of effort.

However, I was confident that when the critical moment arrived, Atticus would lendsupport.

"But what if they don't cooperate? After all, there's a faction that is aligned with Liora." Matthew seemed uncertain.

"In that case, keep in touch with me. If you run into any problems, letknow, and I will figure out how to help." I successfully sold this favor to Matthew.

"But what if… I mean, what if they still resist?" Matthew asked urgently, his gaze intense.

I felt a bit drowsy due to fatigue.

"Then take it to court," I replied impatiently. "All the contracts are signed under Ardora. There's no fear of losing. Honestly, I don't think it'll cto that. After all, Liora doesn't want to sever ties completely. She just wants the company." "True. Without Ardora, she won't have any substantial projects." Matthew gritted his teeth.

"But she has already revealed her true colors to you. You shouldn't be embarrassed anymore. It's not like you want to hand over your company willingly, right?" I needled Matthew.

"Of course not!" Matthew looked defensive. Having lost Tanum in the past, he wouldn't let Ardora suffer the sfate. I had absolute confidence in this.

Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm "I've got sadvice for you, believe it or not!" I glanced at Matthew.

I was quite a good person.

"Spill it." Matthew's attitude had improved noticeably.

"Even when you've regained control, you should consider your next steps. Consider how Atticus kicked the Thompsan family out of the Echelon Group It's because Liora's ambitions are too big. You better kick her out when the tis right." e I was straightforward, and there was no beating around the bush. Matthew understood this perfectly. He must have misunderstood thinking I had shidden agenda regarding him. He was now looking atso adoringly that I wanted to hit him.

"As for leaving behind a bad reputation, it doesn't matter. Just don't go losing your things again." After saying this, I was full and satisfied. My stomach churned, and fatigue overcme. My eyes were practically fighting each other struggling to stay open. I had no energy left. "Alright, I've said what I needed to say. You must have a pig's brain if you still don't understand. But my head is getting muddled now, and I need to go." I forced myself to stay alert, glancing at him.

He suggested, "Why not just sleep here? I won't disturb you. I'll be here working on the plan. When you wake up, you can helprefine it. I promise I won't bother you." Seeing his earnest expression, I scoffed. "I don't feel safe here. I've made myself clear. Figure the rest out on your own." I stood up, picked up my bag, and declared, "I'm leaving." Matthew hurriedly followed me, suggesting, "Are you sure you're okay? Can you drive like this? Letgive you a ride back." Just as I reached for the doorknob, it suddenly swung open, almost hitting me. Startled, I looked up to find Melanie standing at the entrance. I felt a surge of irritation.

Before I could say anything, Melanie exclaimed, "Chloe!" A sudden headache hit me. I quickly bypassed Melanie, walking briskly toward the exit. But, of course, how could this woman letgo so easily?

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 594-Melanie's behavior felt all too familiar to me.

She wasn't having it when she saw I was about to leave. Stubborn was her middle name.

Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt She grabbed my arm and swungback, causingto collide with Matthew. Instinctively, he reached out and steadied me. Melanie was even more relentless. "Chloe, what's your deal? You think you can just run when I show up? Have you no shame?" "Yeah, I lost my sha long tago. Is it a problem if I walk away? Isn't it convenient for you? Since you showed up, I must leave. If you have an issue, take it up with him. You can take my place." I tried to leave, exhausted and with a pounding headache. My thoughts were blurry. I just wanted to find a comfortable place to lie down.

However, Melanie grabbed ontoeven tighter upon seeing my state.

Even Matthew thought Melanie was going too far. He sternly reprimanded her, "Melanie, have ssense. I'm discussing serious matters with Chloe." "What serious matters require a trip to a club alone? Trying to relive old flames? Why is she like this? Did you two overexert yourselves in sworkout?" Melanie spat out.

She continued to escalate, raising her hand to slap me. In my sluggish state, I had no energy to dodge her hand.

With a crisp sound, her slap landed firmly on my face. That sharp sting joltedawake.

All the frustration withinignited when I saw Melanie's smug face. I retaliated with a slap of my own, using all the strength I had. She stumbled and sat on the ground, shocked. Perhaps she didn't expect karma to catch up so quickly.

Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm "Chloe, w-what are you doing?" Matthew roared.

"Do you think I'm a sick animal, and you can just extend your claws at me?" Then I turned to Matthew. "It looks like you're indulging her tantrums, huh? Fine, just wait. I'll show you both the cost of this slap. Otherwise, you'll never know where you went wrong.' With that, I turned and left.

Behind me, Melanie screamed hysterically, "Matthew, what did she mean?" How would know what she neans? Can't you tone down your empera bi empera bit? Sooner or later, you'll uin me. You are something that can't be seen in public!" Matthew's hout madesneer in disdain.

I cursed, "You have no idea. I'll make you understand what I mean immediately." My head was buzzing when I exited ne the club. took a deep breath, checked my bearings, and started the car for home. It was closer, and right now, I urgently needed a bed.

When I got home, my mom and Grace were surprised to seeat this hour. My mom was the first to ask, "Why are you back so early?" I smiled wryly at them. "Just as I set thought. slept only a few hours the night before, then went out with Lauren last night. We chatted until dawn. I haven't slept a wink today.

"I went to the hospital early to check on Trinity. Now I'm so tired that everything is a blur. I need to catch up on sleep." Grace stepped closer, studying my face, and asked in confusion, "Chlo, what happened to your face?" Helplessly, I touched it and said, "Courtesy of your daughter-in-law." My words alarmed the older ladies.

My mom, furious, exclaimed, "What gives her the right to hit you? She's downright crazy!" I couldn't linger any longer and reassured them, "It's nothing. I slapped her back. Letgo to sleep first. We can talk when I wake up." Grace nodded sympathetically. "Sleep… Yes, get srest!" Dragging my heavy head, I headed upstairs. In my room, I quickly stripped off my clothes and crawled under the covers, instantly falling into a deep sleep.

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 595-I slept through the night until early the next morning. If my growling stomach hadn't wokenup, I might have kept sleeping.

I searched for my phone everywhere but couldn't find it. I gave up, figuring they must have taken it away after I fell asleep to avoid disturbing me.

Hunger finally droveto get up after lazing around, staring at the ceiling with heavy eyes. I quickly washed up and went downstairs for breakfast.

Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt Grace discreetly approached me, asking in a hushed tone, "Why did she hit you?" "Don't worry about it. She just loses it every tshe seestalking to your son," I said casually. I didn't want her to be concerned.

"Then just ignore her. That cursed woman will get her comeuppance eventually. Her heart is wicked, and God will deal with her! My son is unfortunate to have her!" I shook my head repeatedly and staggered into the kitchen. While eating, I thought about yesterday's events. There was a limit to what one could endure.

Melanie's slap gavea new perspective. It may be tforto take action.

Taking away Avalon Hills now should be a significant blow to Liora. Seeing the lucrative opportunity slip away, it would devastate her.

I had little tto dwell on them.

After breakfast, I went back upstairs to change, and I took a moment to kiss my two little princesses before heading straight to the office.

On the way, I called Grayson, asking him to cto my office later. I needed to kickstart my plan ahead of schedule.

Carol was already in the office, looking surprised to seeso early. She followedinto the office and asked, "Chlo, why are you here so early today?" "There's something I need to take care of! Anything special happened yesterday?" I asked as I sat down. "I slept like a log!" "Nothing special happened. Mr. Ryan handled everything. You were just too tired. You should relax and get srest." Carol poureda glass of water. "But today, there is something special." I looked up at Carol, puzzled. "What's happening today?" Just as I spoke, someone knocked on the door. Carol hurriedly went to open it, and to my surprise, it was Lauren.

Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm Only then did I remember that today was Lauren's first day on the job.

I exclaimed in joy, rushing out to hug her. "Welcaboard! From now on, we're truly in this together." She responded sincerely, "I'll catch up as soon as possible!" I released her, scrutinizing her appearance. She wore a sharp, professional outfit with a hairstyle, exuding a poaura.

Just then, Grayson walked in. Seeing Lauren, he involuntarily paused, I thinking I was in a meeting. He quickly said to me, "I'll cback later!" Content belongs to, ŚwI quickly stopped him. "Don't leave! Look at who it is!" Grayson took a closer look at Lauren and smiled. "Oh, it's Ms. Lauren!" "Since you're both here, I want to discuss something. I'm thinking of advancing our plan." Grayson, catching on, furrowed his brows. "Regarding the Muborough matter?" "Yes, after weighing the pros and cons, I feel the timing is right.

Currently, Liora is challenging Matthew She wishes to use phase two of Avalon Hills to negotiate terms with him and gain control of Ardora. I believe it's tto catch her off guard." Grayson gavea skeptical look. "I'd have to check with Mr. Ryan if he has the contract under control on their end." "There shouldn't be any issues, and I'll ask Atticus to work behind the scenes," I confidently reassured him.

Lauren looked at me. "If Atticus lends his support, there shouldn't be a problem. Do you trust him?" "We have a mutually beneficial cooperation," I said cryptically.

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 596-Coincidentally, Ryan had also arrived. I briefly explained my thoughts to him, and after scontemplation, he responded, "No problem. But we need to provide a reasonable justification since we voluntarily withdrew from the competition before." Ryan always adhered to his principles. Every action required a valid reason.

After sthinking, I told him, "If necessary, I'll find a way to change the dynamics, reshuffle the project team, and ask Atticus to withdraw his connections through legitimate channels so we can compete fairly." I presented my well-founded reasons and plans to Ryan. To me, this was the safest strategy.

After communicating with Joyce, Ryan adopted my approach.

Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt I immediately arranged a secret meeting with Atticus, and after snegotiation, we reached an agreement. He would find a way to overturn the current contract for Phase Two of Avalon Hills, reshuffle the team, and create a new arrangement.

Meanwhile, Grayson prepared for Muborough. We would expose it once we secured Avalon Hills. Everything was in place, and I waited for updates from the Avalon Hills project team.

During this time, Atlas provided full support from ATL Empire in order to facilitate the smooth implementation of my plan.

ATL Empire officially announced that all construction projects and management of the Design Division had been entrusted to Tanum Construction and Development. That essentially meant that we would beca subsidiary of ATL Empire.

But our company maintained independent accounting and independent operations, ensuring no conflicts with ATL Empire in terms of business.

The announcement of this agreement drew significant attention, causing quite a stir in the public eye. No one expected the small, relatively unknown Tanum Construction and Development to suddenly beca leading force in Foswood.

It was almost unbelievable, and swere unwilling to accept it.

All kinds of discussion surged like a tidal wave toward me.

Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm Of course, opinions were mixed. Speople berated, others ridiculed, and a few even went so far as to utter curses.

But in the midst of all these discussions, had secured the Design Division of ATL Empire. This would greatly benefit Tanum Construction and Development which probably left sindividuals seething with envy. After the signing ceremony, there was a small celebration.

It was meant to be a small party, but it drew a considerable crowd, with prominent figures from the industry in attendance.

To my surprise, Atlas officially announced to the public that I was his fiancée at this signing ceremony celebration.

It caughtcompletely off guard. He had not hinted that he would be doing this, and he had not talked toabout it. He had just turned this gathering into our engagement ceremony without any prior ΟΛΟ discussion. I found myself under the watchful eye of many. I had wondered why he brought in my parents, my family, and even members of the Beringer family before the start of the celebratiGrandma Rose was in attendance, and so was Archie, who had discreetly returned to Foswood because of his goddaughter's engagement. Ardie and Arnold were back as well. The surprises kept coming, and I was shocked every time.

Even though I was one half of the engaged couple, it was clear that I had no idea this was happening. I was dumbfounded when Atlas put the engagement ring on my finger.

All the women in Foswood who had been eyeing Atlas hatedto the core. Suddenly, I was their greatest enemy. Seven vented their anger at Lauren, which was a development I had not anticipated.

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 597-The incident happened because of an unusual disturbance.

When our engagement ceremony ended, Archie started to negotiate with Atlas over me, which made all my family members chuckle. But in the midst of this celebratory atmosphere, a group of individuals in a corner began discreetly discussing my somewhat controversial past.

Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt These discussions reached the ears of Lauren, and due to the offensive nature of the remarks, it quickly escalated into a heated confrontation, which resulted in Lauren getting slapped.

The woman who had initiated the confrontation pointed at Lauren arrogantly and verbally attacked her. "Who do you think you are? How dare you interfere in my affairs? Take a good look at yourself. You're nothing more than an accessory. But here you are, speaking up in an upscale setting. Do you still think you're a socialite? How funny! Birds of a feather really do flock together. You're both equally disgusting." Her extremely harsh words made Lauren cover her face. She tried to maintain her composure even as her face turned pale.

In response to this, Ivanna rushed to her side, glaring at the woman responsible for the attack. "Shut up! Say that again, and I'll tear you apart." "I can say it as many times as I want. She's just a rag doll nobody wants anymore! Looks like she really thinks that highly of herself, huh? We were just having a conversation, and she dared interrupt us." The woman continued her audacious behavior, seemingly intent on causing a scene. Her voice grew sharper with every word.

I watched Ivanna struggle to contain her anger and couldn't help but feel compelled to take action. But Lauren restrained her, and another woman, a friend of the troublemaker, put her hands on her hips and glared at Lauren.

"Behave yourself. That man doesn't want you, even if you so desperately want to be a mistress. You're not even fit to attend a funeral. How dare you chere and act so full of yourself? Do you think you're just as good as you were before? All you do is follow men around and show off. How do you still have the nerve to put on airs here?" My heart sank. These people were incredibly malicious and knew how to target your sensitive spots. The sharp words thrown at Lauren immediately drew the attention of everyone present. The atmosphere bectense as all eyes turned toward Lauren.

I realized the severity of the situation and knew that those words were calculated to hurt Lauren "Do you really think you're good enough to be someone's wife? The mere sight of you is nauseating. What a despicable woman." I sensed trouble brewing and knew this wasn't good. Lauren's face turned ashen, and I knew just how cruel these words were.

Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm This was a deliberate attempt to expose her in front of everyone. Her heart must be bleeding right now.

I couldn't just stand by and watch any longer. I left the crowd behind and marched straight toward the corner where the confrontation was taking place.

I stood next to Lauren and glared at the women who had targeted her. "What did you say?" The group was taken aback by my sudden intervention. They were clearly unprepared for a direct confrontation.

"We…" one of them began to explain, but she was cut off by a tall, arrogant woman.

Chapter 597 Lauren's Been Slapped 1 "Is insulting my friend on my turf your idea of a celebration?" I lashed out, unable to contain my anger.

Chapter 597 Lauren's Been Slapped 2 Chapter 597 Lauren's Been Slapped 3 She attempted to leadaway. But the other women weren't ready to let the matter rest and persisted in their provocations.

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 598-As we tried to leave, the tall woman boldly stepped forward, obstructing our path.

"Why are you leaving? Did we strike a nerve? Did you really sink so low and plot to get someone else's position? Looks like that didn't work out, huh?" She looked at us disdainfully and continued unabashedly, "You're clinging to someone else's man and waiting to be his wife. How's that working out for you? Take a look in the mirror. You're not fit for that. You were just a tool to him all along." Her words hit home, and I sensed Lauren's body visibly swaying. She clutched my hand tightly, trembling.

Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt I stepped forward and prepared to confront them.

Suddenly, a furious roar erupted from the crowd. "Nonsense! As long as I'm here, you won't get away with insulting her." All eyes turned toward the source of the roar, revealing a furious Oliver. He resembled a raging lion, glaring fiercely at the gossiping women.

"Who the hell are you? Show yourselves right now!" Oliver's expression was menacing, and his tone carried a compelling force.

He walked to Lauren's side, pulling her into his arms. With a furious gaze, he addressed the women. "Where are your men?" Lauren hesitated for a moment, then straightened her back and looked at Oliver.

I quickly stood by her side, placing a hand on her to restrain her. I knew that she wanted to refuse Oliver's protection.

But I didn't want her to publicly admit this and expose herself to everyone.

Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm "Apologize, then get out. Do it right now!" I stared at the gloating women, my expression icy.

They probably hadn't expected this to happen. Oliver was not someone they dared or could afford to offend. They hadn't expected him to be present at the scene to publicly protect Lauren. Their faces turned pale as they sensed impending doom. They looked at each other anxiously as they scanned the crowd. They were probably searching for their men.

"Apologize." I sternly demanded, my expression chilling.

"Don't go too far, Chloe. We're here out of respect for Mr. Atlas. We're loyal customers and partners of ATL Empire. Are you sure you want to do this?" She clearly didn't takeseriously, implying that she was only here because of her regard for Atlas.

The leader of the group, the tall woman, looked atdisdainfully and continued, "Be modest. You can't forget who you really are after a tiny victory." "She doesn't need to be modest. My world belongs to her, and she can do whatever she wants." Before she could retort, Atlas walked up to me, placing a comforting hand on my shoulder. He looked at the woman coldly and said, "Check who these women are, Dylan. Terminate all agreements we have with them and escort them out. ATL Empire doesn't need partners like these." As his words settled, several men stood up, bewildered. They rushed toward Atlas. "Please don't do this, Mr. Atlas! We'll educate them properly. Please don't terminate our agreements." "We've always worked well together, Mr. Atlas. Please don't do anything rash." Atlas glanced at them coldly, "You can't even manage your own women. That's why they dared be so disrespectful and insolent. There's no way we can work together. See them out, Dylan." "Wait!" I shouted.

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 599-I stared at the women. "Apologize right now," I commanded coldly.

It was evident that the tall woman was stubborn and had a knack for being unruly, just like Liora. She decided to step forward as she saw the situation turning against her and my relentless demand for an apology.

"Since our agreements have been terminated, why should I apologize? Did I say anything wrong?" she retorted defiantly.

Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt I took a step closer, gazing directly at her. "No apology, huh?" I said, coldly.

One of the men who had pleaded with Atlas suddenly turned to her and scolded, "Katie Finch, apologize!" The woman's face darkened even more, "Why…" I slapped her hard without hesitation. Then, I looked at her calmly and said, "Since you won't apologize, consider that repayment for the slap earlier. I hope you'll pay more attention to your behavior in the future. You shouldn't mess with speople. You can leave now." After that, I returned to Lauren's side, saying, "You don't need to show those kind of people mercy next time, Lauren. If someone provokes you, you should fight back." The men were still pleading and bowing, but they were dismissed and escorted out.

I looked at Lauren and comforted her softly, "Don't take this to heart." Lauren smiled sadly and looked at me, acting casual. "It's okay. I've seen many people like that. I'm used to it. I've thought about it. If I want to live with dignity, I have to face these challenges so I'm mentally prepared for them." My heart ached, and Ivanna looked furious.

Lauren turned to Oliver. Her lips trembled slightly as she said, "Thank you, Mr. Oliver." Oliver did not look happy as he examined Lauren's face. He softly asked, "Do you really have to do this, Lauren?” Ivanna's face turned dark, and I quickly grabbed her, afraid that she might lose her temper.

Those who were watching the show quietly retreated. There was juicy gossip here, but everyone could sense staying longer might lead to unnecessary trouble for themselves.

People had been gossiping about this in Foswood for the past six months. After Oliver's wife passed away, Lauren had suddenly disappeared. Speculations andrumors circulated, and today was the first tthey had been seen together since then. For those who were paying attention, it was telling. It was no longer a well-kept secret.

In reality, not many knew the details, but it was obvious that Lauren had left Oliver's side. Even those who were more oblivious guessed that something was amiss. Either Lauren had been dumped, or she left because Oliver hadn't given her the title she wanted. The veil of secrecy had been torn apart, and curiosity had been satisfied.

The men and women who had been thrown out did not dare challenge people like Atlas and Oliver, because that would mean putting their lives on the line.

Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm So, they dispersed.

Lauren looked at Oliver solemnly. "Thank you for helping me, Mr. Oliver, but you shouldn't do that again. I'll face these rumors myself. They are not wrong. Their words might hurt me, but the facts are true." "Lauren, I…" Oliver took a step forward.

Lauren stepped back, maintaining her elegant smile.

"I hope this doesn't happen again. It's not right for a man with your status and position to embarrass yourself for a woman like me. Let's just go our separate ways. There's no need for you to clear up any misunderstandings about me. It won't benefit either of us try my best to avoid you next time.

Goodbye." Lauren finished speaking, gave a slight smile, and turned to leave.

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 600-I wanted to follow Lauren, but Atlas gently pulledback and shook his head softly. I knew Atlas didn't wantto go after her. It would only make the situation more embarrassing for her. Later, my eyes kept glancing in Lauren's direction. Every tI looked, I saw her chatting and laughing, though I knew that behind that smile, her heart must be in pain. For six months, she had been alone and faced everything by herself. Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt And now that she had returned, she had to endure these malicious insults. She must be hiding a world of pain behind her smile. Human nature truly was one of the ugliest things in this world. Why couldn't we give those who had taken the wrong path a way back home? When the ceremony concluded, Oliver was drunk beyond recognition, and Atlas arranged for someone to take him home. A smiling Lauren left as well. I couldn't stop worrying about Lauren, even after seeing off the guests and returning home. I told Atlas about my worries and turned to go to Lauren's house. I quickly unlocked the door with my key. As I expected, she hadn't turned on the lights. The room was pitch black, but I knew she was inside. I reached for the light switch, and soon the room was brightly lit. As my eyes adjusted to the light, I saw Lauren sitting on the sofa, drinking. Her cheeks were stained with tears. When I turned on the light, she covered her face and muttered, "Why are you here? Today was your big day!" After saying that, she sniffed and remained silent. Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm I walked over to her, took the bottle from her hands, and said, "Are you going to drink yourself into a stupor again like you did in the past?" She put down her hands, looked atwith her pale face, and smiled bitterly. "I won't. Do you really think I'm that dumb?" "Aren't you?" I retorted, feeling heartache mixed with a hint of anger for her. "In the past six months, I've rebuilt my life. I just needed a small sip to stabilize my emotions." After saying that, she awkwardly wiped her face and continued, "Go home. Don't keep Atlas waiting. You have a good man, so I don't have to worry about you any more. I hope you'll both be happy. Atlas really does love you." "Don't distract yourself and don't try to shoulder everything by yourself. Try to be more open-minded, and don't torture yourself all the tf you really do confront these people, you'll only end up hurting yourself." I put the bottle firmly on the coffee table and sat down beside her. At first, neither of us spoke. We just sat in silence. I didn't know how long the silence lasted, but she was the first to break it. "I understand. Don't worry about me." She looked atand smiled, patting my leg, but her smile was heartbreaking. "As for Oliver... He still seems to have feelings for you. If you can't let go, I can..." I tentatively started, trying to persuade her to turn back. After all, Oliver had been searching for her since she left Foswood. Anyone could tell that Oliver had changed. I always felt they should have had a chance to talk and figure things out. Why couldn't they? "Chloe..." She interrupted me. "Don't play peacemaker. He doesn't deserve it." It seemed that she knew what I was thinking. I fell silent. To be honest, I understood what Lauren meant. She was right-Oliver didn't deserve it, especially after what he had said in front of her. "When he said those words and took the bracelet back to put on his late wife's wrist, he gavea clear answer. I was just a decorative piece in everyone's eyes," Lauren said, her voice choking with emotion.

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