Ch. 271..280
Mistaking a Magnate for a Male Escort Chapter 271
“Really?” Sharon chuckled in amusement. “You’re way too serious, Zachary.”
Zachary smiled faintly at her. “I’m definitely never as friendly as you are.”
“That’s for sure.” Sharon raised an eyebrow and laughed.
The two seemed so close and intimate, and it was evident that they shared a great mutual understanding.
Everyone gazed at them profoundly, for this was indeed a sight to behold.
After all, the two were childhood sweethearts, and their families were perfect for one another. If they were to join in marriage, both sides would only benefit each other greatly.
The Blackwoods especially looked forward to this.
Watching the scene before her, Charlotte felt as though an infinite number of cats were scratching at her heart. It felt agonizing.
Stay calm, Charlotte. Stay calm. Stay calm!
Then, along with the other secretaries, she carefully and politely placed the documents in front of everyone before preparing to take her leave.
Then, Mr. Sterk noticed her. “Charlotte? You’re back,” he remarked amicably.
“Yes, Mr. Sterk.” Charlotte smiled and nodded lightly.
“That’s good to know.” Mr. Sterk seemed pleased. “Do your best.”
“I will!” Charlotte put the documents down and subconsciously glanced at Zachary, only to notice the man gazing at Sharon. The two seemed to have excellent chemistry as they communicated with their eyes.
With a tremble of her hand, Charlotte accidentally knocked Mr. Sterk’s teacup out of its place.
Clang! The teacup fell over on the table, spilling its contents over Mr. Sterk and Charlotte’s thigh.
Charlotte’s thigh instantly burned in pain.
“Ahhh!” Mr. Sterk jumped to his feet and inhaled sharply.
“I’m so sorry!”
Disregarding the pain on her thigh, Charlotte immediately apologized to Mr. Sterk and began to clean up the mess.
“Are you alright, Mr. Sterk?” Lucy rushed over and growled at Charlotte. “What is wrong with you? Get out!”
“It’s fine! Don’t blame her.”
Mr. Sterk quickly tried to ease the situation for Charlotte. In truth, he was wearing trousers, so the tea hadn’t scalded him in any way.
“I’m sorry…” Charlotte apologized once more before lowering her head and leaving the room.
This time, Zachary finally spared her a glance, but not before quickly looking away.
Sharon, too, gazed at Charlotte briefly before immediately turning to Mr. Sterk. “Are you okay, Mr. Sterk? Are you injured? Do you want to visit the hospital?”
“I’m fine. It’s just that my clothes are wet.”
“Go back to your office and get changed then,” Zachary instructed.
“Alright.” Then, Mr. Sterk left with his assistant.
“We’ll start the meeting without him,” Zachary announced.
Upon arriving in the bathroom, Charlotte used a disposable towel soaked in cold water and pressed it against the area that was scalded by the hot tea.
It didn’t look too serious, but her skin had turned red, and it stung.
It should be fine after a while. With that thought, Charlotte didn’t pay too much attention to her thigh.
“Charlotte!” Lucy briskly walked in with a tube of burn-aid cream. “Use this.”
“Thanks, Ms. Wright.” Charlotte felt extremely guilty.
Lucy was a great leader. Despite harshly reprimanding Charlotte every time she messed up, the former would still always help solve her problems at the end of the day.
“What’s up with you today? You look so unsettled,” Lucy remarked with concern. “Did something happen at home, or are you not feeling well?”
“Maybe it’s because it’s my time of the month, so I’m not in my best performance.” Charlotte quickly came up with an excuse. “I’m really sorry about what happened back there. Is Mr. Sterk okay?”
“I just came over from Mr. Sterk’s office. He’s not injured, but his clothes got wet.” Then, Lucy frowned. “You’re lucky it was him. You’d be in huge trouble if it were another shareholder or a guest.”
“Yes, Ma’am…” Charlotte lowered her head in shame.
“Since you’re not doing too well today, you shouldn’t work at the front desk. Go do some back-office work,” Lucy instructed. “Give the pantry a tidy, then go collect the documents in the meeting room at eleven.”
“Okay!”
Mistaking a Magnate for a Male Escort Chapter 272
After Lucy left, Charlotte washed her face by the sink and reminded herself to be careful. You can’t mess up again.
However, she turned furious at the thought of Zachary.
He’s the one two-timing and flirting with another woman right in front of me! Why does he get to stay so calm while I get all worked up? It’s not like I’m the one who’s wrong!
Still… we’ve never had a normal relationship. Everything’s been transactional, to begin with, and we’ve always remained together in secret.
Can I really expect him to be as loyal as a normal boyfriend should be?
Now that I think about it, it’s not like I ever wanted to be in a proper relationship with him in the first place.
I relented just because I was helpless against his incessant threats.
Haven’t I always been hoping for him to grow tired of me so that I can finally be free again?
Why am I getting so worked up from seeing him acting all flirty with another woman?
No, Charlotte. This is just wrong. Stop it!
Charlotte took a deep breath and used her fingers to pull her lips into a smile. Stay calm and relaxed. You’ll be stronger if you rid yourself of all your desires.
You won’t be affected as long as you don’t care!
Reminding herself over and over again, Charlotte walked out of the bathroom and began to seriously immerse herself in work.
The clock struck eleven just as she finished tidying the pantry, and the meeting had ended too.
As a few janitors cleaned the room, Charlotte and Dani sorted out the documents and prepared to shred them.
While they busied themselves, a tall, familiar figure walked in and stood in front of Charlotte.
“Hello, Mr. Nacht,” everyone greeted.
Charlotte glanced up at him before quickly lowering her head to resume her work.
With a single gesture, Zachary sent everyone out of the room. Charlotte prepared to leave as well, only to be held onto by the man who immediately pushed her onto the president’s chair.
As the black chair began to move backward due to the force, Zachary swiftly hooked one of its legs with his foot, pulling the chair back to him.
Then, he placed both his hands on the armrests and leaned toward Charlotte, just like a wild beast trapping its prey.
Not saying anything, Charlotte glared at Zachary with a pair of huge, livid eyes.
Boiling with rage and a ton of questions, she waited for an explanation.
“Heh!” Yet, Zachary chuckled the moment he saw her expression and grabbed her chin. “Is someone jealous? Hmm?”
Charlotte remained silent, but she looked extremely grim.
Should I not be jealous?
You’re like a godd*mn lion when you’re jealous, yelling about and complaining about everything!
Am I not allowed to be mad, then?
“You look like a frog.”
Zachary pinched her puffed-up face before leaning over to nibble on her red, pouting lips.
“Mmph—” Charlotte furiously pushed him away.
“Let me take a look. Were you scalded?”
Just as Zachary began to lift her pencil skirt to inspect her thigh…
“Zachary!”
Sharon’s voice suddenly rang from outside, and the door to the meeting room opened quickly.
Zachary swiftly retracted his hands and stood up, kicking the president’s chair away.
Charlotte nearly fell over as the chair rolled away with restraint, but she managed to grab onto the armrests.
“I’ve been looking for you.” Sharon walked in with a smile. “Mind letting me visit your office for a short while?”
“Of course not.”
Like a gentleman, Zachary gestured her to leave before heading outside with her.
Before leaving, Sharon didn’t forget to cast Charlotte a frosty gaze.
Charlotte remained seated on the office chair as she watched them leave, gritting her teeth in anger. You scumbag!
As her colleagues returned, she suppressed her emotions and continued to retrieve the documents.
Shortly after, Lucy walked in. “Go clean up the president’s office, Charlotte.”
“I—”
“Hurry up! Don’t forget to take a cloth and mop with you.”
Then, Lucy left in a huff.
With that, Charlotte had no choice but to grab some cleaning supplies from the equipment room before heading to the president’s office.
Nearing the office, she wondered if she would bump into Zachary and Sharon.
Will I end up seeing something that I shouldn’t have?
Mistaking a Magnate for a Male Escort Chapter 273
Just as Charlotte was about to knock, the door suddenly opened. Ben walked out and couldn’t help but feel awkward upon seeing her. “Char…”
Then, he quickly changed his words. “Is something the matter?”
“Ms. Wright told me to do some cleaning here.”
Charlotte looked past Ben’s shoulder and noticed what was happening inside the office.
With his back facing her, Zachary sat on the couch, and right next to him was Sharon leaning over to whisper something into his ear.
The two looked so intimate with each other.
Charlotte’s chest instantly tightened as she averted her gaze and lowered her head. “If it’s not convenient right now, I’ll come back later.”
Then, just as she was about to leave…
“Hold on!”
An enchanting female voice resonated across the room.
Ben shut his eyes with a frustrated look on his face.
“Hey, Ben! I accidentally spilled some wine here. Could you get her to come in and clean it up?”
Sharon spoke to Ben in an especially polite manner, but that was just so she could get Charlotte to do her bidding.
Ben cast Charlotte a troubled glance.
Charlotte waited for two seconds, but Zachary remained quiet.
Hence, she could only walk in with the cleaning tools.
By now, Sharon maintained a fixed distance from Zachary.
However, they still sat close to each other on the same couch.
The red wine had spilled on the coffee table and carpet right in front of them.
Charlotte walked over and knelt down, using a cloth to wipe the coffee table.
“Wow, Zachary. Your secretaries are getting prettier and prettier,” Sharon remarked, glancing at Charlotte from head to toe.
Despite her simple attire and lack of makeup, Charlotte had the ability to look extraordinarily charming just by standing in a corner.
Furthermore, she was a completely natural beauty and exhibited an indescribable presence.
“Well, yeah. They’re alright,” Zachary replied blandly.
Charlotte cursed internally. Me? Just alright?
Then, why can’t you keep your hands off me?
“It’s just a shame that they’re a little lacking in professionalism…”
Sharon’s extra words sounded light and nonchalant, but they were clearly full of hostility.
Charlotte’s movements jerked slightly, but she suppressed the rage within her and continued cleaning.
“You missed this spot.”
Sharon pointed toward the stain beneath her feet using her sharp heels, signaling Charlotte to clean that area too.
Charlotte stared at the spot but remained unmoving, for leaning over there would be no different from kneeling right before Sharon.
“What’s wrong?” Sharon raised an eyebrow and smirked. “Do you not see it, or do you not intend to clean it up?”
Charlotte tightened her grip on the cloth. In the name of work, she certainly couldn’t refute this woman. On a personal note, however, she refused to be humiliated this way.
Yet, Zachary kept mum, not showing any intention on helping Charlotte out.
This only made the woman even more upset.
“I’ll do it!” Ben hastily walked over.
“Oh, but I could never trouble you with such menial tasks, Ben!” Despite speaking to Ben, Sharon kept her gaze on Charlotte. “You’re a stubborn one, huh? I guess you won’t take orders from me.”
Taking a deep breath, Charlotte continued to fight her rage. She turned over with the cloth in her hand, only to accidentally drop the stained fabric on Sharon’s foot.
“Eww! That’s disgusting!” Sharon got up in a fit and proceeded to step on Charlotte’s hand.
“Ahhh!” Charlotte screamed in pain.
Like a nail, the sharp 8-cm heel instantly tore the skin on the back of Charlotte’s hand, causing it to start bleeding.
Unable to take it any longer, Zachary stood up, shoved Sharon aside, and helped Charlotte up.
“Zachary!” Collapsing on the sofa, Sharon stared at the man in disbelief.
“Do you not know how to even clean up?” Zachary growled at Charlotte. “Get out!”
Remaining silent, Charlotte lifted her gaze and glared at him, her eyes were brimmed with tears. Then, she picked up her tools and strode her way out of the room.
Mistaking a Magnate for a Male Escort Chapter 274
“I can’t believe this!” Sharon was extremely infuriated. “That secretary of yours is horrible, Zachary.”
“Are you okay?” Zachary asked instead of responding to her words.
“I am, but… Why did you push me?” Sharon whined.
“You stepped on her hand.”
Charlotte had already left the office by the time Zachary answered.
“But she’s the one who dropped that cloth on my foot,” Sharon insisted, evidently displeased. “That was filthy!”
“And that’s why you decided to step on her?” asked Zachary in return.
Sharon froze before explaining reluctantly, “No. I didn’t do it on purpose. She shouldn’t have placed her hand there—”
“I’m sure your father taught you to be kind to others.” Zachary furrowed his brows. “This is no longer a world where slaves have to serve their masters. We live in an equal society now.”
“But she’s just a secretary! Why are you getting so worked up?” Sharon insisted. “Or is there something going on between—”
“She may just be a secretary, but she’s still my employee,” Zachary cut her off before giving her a stern reminder. “Remember how you once lost your temper when we were young, and you threw a cup at my cat?”
“You didn’t talk to me for three years after that…” Sharon couldn’t help but tense up upon recalling the incident and immediately tugged onto his sleeve to apologize. “I’m sorry, Zachary. I won’t do it again. Please don’t be mad!”
“You should apologize to her instead.” Zachary withdrew his arm.
“You want me to apologize to her?” Sharon’s eyes widened in disbelief, but she quickly changed her mind as soon as she noticed Zachary’s frigid expression. “Okay, okay. I’ll go and tell her I’m sorry. Just don’t be mad.”
With that, she quickly left with her handbag.
Zachary gestured at Ben, instructing him to follow the woman.
Charlotte’s coworkers were beyond terrified to see blood trickling down her hand ceaselessly, and they immediately brought her a first-aid kit.
Lucy dashed over the moment she found out about it. “What happened?”
Nothing—” Just as Charlotte was about to respond, Sharon strode toward her. “Are you okay? Do you want to go to the hospital?”
Fighting her tears, Charlotte replied coldly, “I’m fine.”
“I’m really sorry about what happened. I didn’t mean it.”
Despite apologizing, Sharon sounded as haughty as usual. To top things off, she even took out a blank check and tossed it to Charlotte. “This is for the medical bills. Write whatever amount you see fit.”
While speaking, she began to leave with her bodyguards.
“Hold it right there!” Charlotte roared at her. “Do you think you can just use money to—”
Before she could finish, Lucy cut her off.
Shaking her head at Charlotte, she then turned to Sharon and said politely, “Have a good day, Ms. Blackwood!”
Strolling into the elevator, Sharon turned and left Charlotte an arrogant smirk.
This caused Charlotte to tremble in rage. A few coworkers gazed at her in pity, albeit not daring to say anything.
“Get back to work, everyone,” Lucy ordered.
Thus, the coworkers lowered their heads and left.
“I know you’re upset, but you can’t afford to get on her bad side,” Lucy advised while tending to Charlotte’s wound. “Ms. Blackwood isn’t just the president of Synder Group; she’s also Mr. Nacht’s childhood sweetheart. There have been talks about a union between the two families, so she might someday become our boss too.”
Charlotte felt even more anguished to hear such words. Luna once mentioned that Zachary had a fiancée. Could that woman be the one she was referring to?
“Even if you may leave Divine Corporation one day, you’d still have to earn a living elsewhere, wouldn’t you? Don’t get on Ms. Blackwood’s nerves, or you might not be able to get a job anywhere else. I think you should back down.”
Lucy continued earnestly, “I’ll have you take care of other duties the next time she comes so you’ll avoid running into each other. The tension shouldn’t take long to ease. As for this check, I suggest you give it back to her. Consider it a way to get her to owe you a favor.”
Mistaking a Magnate for a Male Escort Chapter 275
After speaking, Lucy patted Charlotte on the shoulder. “Well, that’s just my opinion. You should think about it.”
Charlotte kept her head low and remained silent.
She didn’t understand why in today’s society which preached equality, there were people who thought they could pick on others just because they had more power.
Zachary’s like that, and now there’s Sharon Blackwood too.
But I guess it’s no surprise. Birds of the same feathers flock together, after all!
They’re friends precisely because they behave the same way.
“Are you okay?” Ben asked softly.
Charlotte merely glared at him, then left with the first-aid kit without a word.
Ben remained frozen in place with a miserable look on his face. What did I do to deserve that?
By lunch, Charlotte was still so infuriated that she was in no mood to eat. Lucy gave her a sandwich and arranged for her to work on some lighter tasks.
Zachary left in the afternoon, but not before casting Charlotte a glance when passing the reception desk. Even so, he said nothing and headed straight toward the elevator.
Charlotte kept her head buried in documents. Remember, Charlotte, don’t you ever bother with that disgusting man ever again!
By the time work ended and Charlotte arrived home, she had already managed to keep her emotions in check. “I’m home!” she exclaimed with a smile.
“Mommy!”
The three children rushed up to her and leaped into her arms, asking for hugs and kisses.
“What happened to your hand, Mommy?” Robbie immediately asked upon noticing Charlotte’s hand, which had been firmly swathed in bandages.
“Oh, I hurt myself at work,” Charlotte replied cheerily. “Don’t worry, though. It’s just a tiny injury.”
“Why do you keep getting injured, Mommy? Is it really dangerous at work?” Jamie asked anxiously.
“He’s right, Mommy. If it’s too dangerous, you should change jobs,” said Ellie as her heart ached. “I don’t want to see you get injured, Mommy.”
“Me neither!” agreed Jamie and Robbie in unison.
“Me neither!” Fifi suddenly chimed in.
The parrot certainly had a knack for mimicry.
“It’s not dangerous,” Charlotte responded with a chuckle. “I was just too clumsy. Don’t worry, kiddos. Mommy will be more careful next time.”
“Are you hurt, Miss? Let me take a look.” Hearing the commotion, Mrs. Berry rushed out of the kitchen.
“I’m fine! Really.” Charlotte hastily changed the subject. “Is dinner ready, Mrs. Berry? I’m starving.”
“It is, but…”
“Is there my favorite beef stew tonight?”
“Yup, there is. Alright, you all. Go wash your hands, and I’ll start serving up the food!”
Being able to spend every single day with her family and talking about life’s trivial matters over meals.
To Charlotte, this was a blessing. She was especially thankful for her current life and didn’t want anyone else disrupting that.
If Zachary were a regular guy, maybe he’d be thrilled to reunite with his children.
But he’s no regular guy.
The woman had initially thought of telling him the truth as they slept in each other’s arms that night, so that the entire family could finally be reunited.
Not even what Julia had said to her eventually was enough to make her suspicious of Zachary.
Yet, Sharon’s arrival today seemed to have completely thrown even the slightest idea of the children meeting their father out the window.
At night, Charlotte lay in bed alone. Gazing at her injured hand and thinking about everything that had happened that day, a mix of emotions swirled within her.
She used to think that Zachary was a volatile man prone to mood swings. Moreover, he seemed to have been involved in her father’s death, so he wasn’t fit to be a father himself.
But now, Charlotte had another problem—there was a gap between her and Zachary that she could never cross.
It wasn’t just their clashing personalities or the obstacles that came their way; it had more to do with their different statuses and family backgrounds.
I’m nothing but a regular employee who even struggles with life, but he’s a powerful man far beyond my reach.
We’re just not meant to be.
Mistaking a Magnate for a Male Escort Chapter 276
Dad used to tell me that all the powerful businessmen here could never marry whomever they wanted. They’d either get married for business deals and political reasons or be forced into unions with other families—all for the sake of benefitting their families.
I guess Zachary Nacht is no exception.
The thought of Zachary possibly marrying another woman made Charlotte’s heart burn with fury. She pulled at her dinosaur pillow and was on the verge of ripping it apart.
That disgusting scumbag! Why does he keep teasing me despite already having a fiancée?
From now on, I’ll have to stay away from him!
I’ll ignore him if he ever comes looking for me again.
Then, she glanced at her phone. If he calls, I’ll either not pick up or just reject the call to piss him off!
Yet, the man didn’t call all night.
In fact, Zachary didn’t drop by the office for the next few days, and work was much more relaxing.
For the first two days, Charlotte was delighted by his absence. It’d be better if he never comes back! Everyone feels on edge whenever he’s around.
Then, a week went by in the blink of an eye, and Zachary still didn’t come to work.
Charlotte began to feel uneasy. Where the hell has he gone to?
He didn’t actually go get married to Sharon, did he?
Just as Charlotte pondered over the idea of sending Zachary a text message, she suddenly heard a few secretaries muttering among themselves by the pantry.
“Hey! Why do you think Mr. Nacht hasn’t been coming to work?”
“Isn’t it obvious? He must be busy spending time with Ms. Blackwood.”
“Yeah! Ms. Blackwood’s company is located in M Nation, but she’s come all the way to H City to discuss a joint project, so it’s only natural that Divine Corporation treats her like royalty.”
“But that doesn’t mean Mr. Nacht has to do it personally!”
“What do you girls know? Mr. Nacht and Ms. Blackwood are childhood sweethearts, so of course Mr. Nacht has to welcome her in person! Who knows, Ms. Blackwood might even become our future boss.”
“Huh? Is that true?”
“Of course it is! I heard it from Ms. Wright herself—”
“What are you ladies talking about?” Lucy interrupted them coldly.
With that, the few secretaries immediately dispersed, returned to their respective seats, and got back to work.
With a cup of coffee, Charlotte returned to her seat too. Despite looking calm on the outside, her heart was filled with astonishment.
He’s never been away from the company this long. Even if he goes overseas, he’d come back in at most three or four days. But now, it’s been a week and he still hasn’t shown up…
I guess he really must be spending time with Sharon.
“I have some urgent documents here that need to be sent over to the Ashenville Garden Golf Course for Mr. Nacht’s signature,” Lucy announced as she walked over with a document. “Dani, could you—”
“I’m sorry, Ms. Wright. I’ve been having an upset stomach all day,” Danielle replied hastily. “Ashenville Garden is too far from here. I’m worried I might cause a scene and make the company look bad.”
“Then, you do it, Fran.” Lucy turned to another secretary.
“Did you forget, Ms. Wright? Zoey and I will be following Mr. Sterk to meet with the media,” Fran said meekly.
Lucy frowned as she scanned her surroundings. Finally, her eyes fell on Charlotte. “I guess you’re the only one who can do it, Charlotte.”
“Me?” Charlotte froze for a moment. “I don’t think I can manage.”
“We’ll go together.” Lucy glanced at her watch. “You’ll have to see more of the outside world sooner or later. You can’t keep staying at the reception desk, or you’ll be a good-for-nothing for life.”
“Okay. I understand.” Charlotte sighed with relief upon hearing that Lucy would be going too. “When do we leave?”
“Now. I’ll get the documents ready, and we’ll meet in front of the elevator in ten minutes.”
“Okay.”
Lucy drove to Ashenville Garden with Charlotte. On the way there, she asked the latter a question. “Mr. Nacht has eighteen secretaries, but everyone gets paid a different salary. Do you know why, Charlotte?”
“No.” Charlotte shook her head.
“Do you know how much I earn each month?”
“No.” Charlotte gazed at her meekly.
“A hundred and thirty grand.”
“What? That much?” Charlotte was visibly taken aback.
Mistaking a Magnate for a Male Escort Chapter 277
“And that’s just my basic salary. I haven’t included my bonus and other fringe benefits,” Lucy remarked with a smile. “If I were to include all the extra perks I get, I’d say I make about two million a year.”
“Oh, God! I’m so jealous of you.” Charlotte couldn’t help but envy her.
“Don’t ever underestimate a secretary’s work. You’ll have a bright future ahead as long as you do your job well,” Lucy advised sincerely. “If you want to make it in life, you have no one else but yourself to rely on. Don’t waste your days idling.”
Hearing that, Charlotte felt a little guilty. It’s true that I haven’t really been ambitious about my career all this while.
“Do your best! Your father was an incredible man, so I know you’ll shine just like he did!”
“You knew my father?” Charlotte was surprised.
“Who hasn’t heard about the president of Windt Corporation? Besides, your last name is pretty uncommon, and there’s something extraordinary about you. It’s not hard to tell whose daughter you are.”
“Oh.” Charlotte didn’t want to recall too much of the past.
“We’re almost there. Have a look at the documents and familiarize yourself with them.”
“Okay.”
After a two-hour drive, they finally arrived at Ashenville Garden.
Lucy drove straight toward the golf course and got off the car with Charlotte.
A staff member came over to welcome them. Knowing that they were here to deliver Zachary’s documents, the man treated them with the utmost respect and immediately brought them to their boss.
Charlotte had been here before; her father was once a regular client who would often take his guests here too.
“Is that Mr. Nacht over there?” Lucy asked, pointing to the golf course nearby.
Charlotte looked over and noticed the familiar figure which belonged to Zachary, whereas right next to him was… That must be Sharon.
“Ugh…” Lucy’s expression stiffened as she turned to Charlotte awkwardly. “I’ll send the documents over on my own. Wait for me here.”
No one else might have noticed it, but Lucy had long been aware of the fact that Charlotte and Zachary shared a special relationship.
Charlotte had been promoted directly to the president’s office under Ben’s personal instructions too, and everything else that transpired after that was taken care of by the man himself.
Everyone knew that Ben was Zachary’s right-hand man and that any order he gave was the latter’s will.
Zachary was always a heartless man, but he had made many exceptions for Charlotte—time and time again.
Others may not have been aware of this, but Lucy certainly was.
“Okay. I got it.” Charlotte retracted her gaze, looking especially calm.
Despite feeling stirred up deep down, her face remained expressionless.
She knew too well that her relationship with Zachary was merely transactional in nature, so this was all nothing but a game. Whoever falls in love first loses.
Don’t expect anything. Don’t fall for him, Charlotte. That way, you’ll never be hurt.
The woman continuously reminded herself about her own principles. Don’t cross the line.
The golf cart stopped nearby, and Sharon’s excited voice rang out. “Wow! It went in! I did it, Zachary!”
“Not bad.” Zachary nodded lightly.
“Teach me more! I could use some work on my posture,” Sharon requested, leaning onto his body.
“Get Mr. White to teach you.”
Then, Zachary handed his golf club to Ben and turned to leave, only to notice Charlotte and Lucy standing next to the golf cart.
“Hello, Mr. Nacht!” Lucy strode over with the documents. “Here are the documents you requested.”
Standing in place, Charlotte gave her boss a polite nod and kept her gaze low, not saying a single word.
Zachary glanced at her before instructing Lucy, “Give them to Ms. Blackwood.”
“Sure.” Lucy walked a few steps ahead and courteously handed the documents to Sharon. “Here you go, Ms. Blackwood.”
“Thank you.” Sharon retrieved the documents with a smile. “I’m sorry that you had to come all the way here.”
“It’s no trouble at all. This is all part of my job,” Lucy quickly responded.
“We’re just about to have lunch. Why don’t we all have a meal together?” While holding the documents, Sharon caught up to Zachary and held him by the arm in a carefree manner. Then, she turned to Charlotte. “Come and join us too.”
Mistaking a Magnate for a Male Escort Chapter 278
Sharon sounded as though she was being benevolent toward Charlotte.
How the latter wished to respond with a snide remark, but she held back.
“Thank you, Ms. Blackwood,” said Lucy respectfully. “But we don’t wish to bother you and Mr. Nacht. We still have work to do, so we’ll be taking our leave.”
“You still need to have lunch when you get back, anyway. You may as well join us,” Sharon insisted as she leaned onto Zachary once again. “Right, Zachary?”
“Yeah,” Zachary responded. “Let’s eat together.”
“Alright, then.” Not daring to say anything more, Lucy dragged Charlotte back into the golf cart, and the two sat behind Zachary and Sharon.
Unlike before, Charlotte seemed especially calm today.
Although, that was merely on the surface. For deep down, she was already cursing the bloody couple in front of her.
May you both suffer from constipation every day. May you both wet your beds every night. May you be impotent for the rest of your life, Zachary Nacht!
“I just bought a new swimwear, Zachary. How about we visit a hot spring tonight?” Sharon stuck to Zachary like glue. “You must be tired after so many sleepless nights. Why don’t you take it easy just for tonight?”
Hearing that, Charlotte trembled slightly as her mind went abuzz.
Sleepless nights?
Does that mean they haven’t been able to keep their hands off each other in the past few days?
The image of the two continuously getting frisky with each other in bed surfaced in Charlotte’s mind.
In that instant, she felt like her world was crumbling. The rage within her began to boil, and was on the verge of spilling out when suddenly…
“Charlotte… Charlotte.” Lucy nudged her gently. “Are you cold? You’re not wearing enough today.”
“I’m okay. Thanks, Ms. Wright.”
Charlotte pursed her lips and forced herself to remain calm.
Don’t be mad over a scumbag like him, Charlotte. It’s not worth it!
It doesn’t matter who he sleeps with! It has nothing to do with you.
He may as well marry that woman right away! They’re both so self-centered and cocky that they deserve each other. With their heads up high all the time, they might just trip and fall to their deaths while walking one day!
He won’t bother you now that he’s gotten himself another woman. You can finally focus on your work, look after the children, and begin a new life…
You should just pretend to not know him from now on.
Even if they start screwing each other right in front of you this instant, you should cheer them on!
“Charlotte… Charlotte!” Lucy slapped Charlotte by the shoulder.
“Huh?” Charlotte snapped back to reality, only to realize that the golf cart had already stopped in front of the restaurant.
Zachary and Sharon had already alighted, but she remained sitting here in a daze.
“What’s wrong? You seem so out of it,” mumbled Lucy.
“Nothing.” Charlotte quickly got down and followed Lucy into the restaurant.
“Mr. Nacht! Ms. Blackwood! This way, please.”
The vice president of Synder Group, Jackson White, stood at the entrance to welcome Zachary and Sharon.
“You’re really good at golf, Mr. White.” Sharon struck up a conversation with Jackson. “I noticed that there isn’t really anything you can’t do. Are you married?”
“Hahaha! I am flattered, Ms. Blackwood,” Jackson replied with a laugh. “Well, it’s rather unfortunate, but I’ve been divorced for a few years and haven’t found myself another partner.”
“Is it because your standards are too high?” Sharon teased. “What kind of women are you into?”
“I like women who are pretty, gentle, and obedient.” While speaking, Jackson’s gaze fell on Charlotte. “And this is?”
“She’s one of the secretaries from Divine Corporation who came over to send Mr. Nacht some documents,” Sharon answered enthusiastically. “Oh, and she’s single.”
Charlotte froze and turned to Sharon.
“I’m not wrong, am I, Charlotte?” Sharon beamed as she gazed at Charlotte. “Why don’t you consider Mr. White? He may be a little older than you, but he’s a mature, responsible, and successful man.”
Mistaking a Magnate for a Male Escort Chapter 279
Charlotte took a peek at Jackson and felt greatly humiliated. Judging by Jackson’s wrinkled face and flabby stomach, Charlotte thought he should be around her father’s age.
Sharon has such a brilliant plan, but does she really think she can get rid of me by setting me up for a blind date with this old man?
Is it even necessary for her to go to great lengths to get rid of me when I haven’t made any move or gotten in her way with Zachary’s relationship?
Why is she sending this disgusting old man my way again when I have forgiven her for stepping on my hand and giving me a hard time? She should stay away from me because I have returned the check through Lucy’s help!
“Charlotte, you seem to be pretty young. How old are you?”
On one hand, Jackson’s eyes gleamed in excitement and looked at Charlotte differently.
On the other hand, Charlotte remained silent throughout the conversation because she could barely keep a straight face in front of the old man anymore.
Lucy stepped in to get Charlotte out of the nasty situation. “Ms. Blackwood, I’m sure you’re kidding! I don’t think Charlotte deserves Mr. White when she’s just a rookie in the corporate world.”
“What do you mean she doesn’t deserve—”
“Aren’t you hungry? Why don’t you hurry up and finish your meal?” Zachary broke the silence, stating indifferently before Sharon could finish her sentence.
Sharon winced at Zachary’s words because it was evident the man was trying to protect Charlotte.
“Oh! You’re right! I believe most of us are hungry since we have been out for the entire morning!” Jackson was an observant man. He immediately summoned the waiter and instructed, “Please serve us our meal at once!”
“Ms. Wright, Mr. Ben, have a seat and join us!”
Jackson invited everyone that was present to join him at the table and started engaging himself in a conversation with Ben and Lucy to get himself out of the awkward situation.
Ben and Lucy played along with him to ease up the tension that was built up over the past few minutes.
Meanwhile, Zachary indulged himself and took a sip of the red wine.
Sharon’s face puckered because she felt embarrassed after Zachary reprimanded her in front of others. She secretly held a grudge against Charlotte and finished her glass of wine in an attempt to calm herself down.
In spite of being on pins and needles, Charlotte couldn’t bring herself away—she had no choice but to join the crowd and brace herself through the meal.
“Mr. Nacht, this is a wine from my precious collection. Please give it a try.”
Jackson served Zachary and Sharon each a glass of drink. “Ms. Blackwood, why don’t you give it a try as well? The president has complimented it after savoring it when we were out for a meal last time.”
Zachary took a sip as suggested and stated, “Mmm… It’s not half bad at all…”
“Mr. Ben, Ms. Wright, Charlotte, you guys should give it a try too!”
Jackson served everyone their glass of drink. When it was Charlotte’s turn, a leg showed up at the bottom of the table, causing him to trip over.
As a result, he staggered and spilled the remaining wine that was in the decanter on Charlotte.
“Ah!” Charlotte shrieked and got up from her seat immediately.
The red wine streamed all the way down from her collar, soaking her white shirt crimson red, exposing her supple yet busty figure in front of everyone.
Immediately, Jackson apologized, “I-I’m so sorry!”
After he grabbed the napkin that was nearby, he reached over in an attempt to wipe Charlotte’s shirt dry on her behalf.
Zachary’s expression turned gloomy because Jackson’s hand was merely a few inches away from Charlotte’s breast.
Charlotte took a step back and denoted, “I-It’s fine… I-I can clean it up myself.”
“Are you okay?” Sharon expressed her concerns and reprimanded Jackson, “Mr. White, how could you be so careless?”
“I-I…” Jackson was at a loss for words. Truth be told, he was aware of the identity of the culprit, yet he couldn’t expose the truth in front of them.
“Since you’re completely drenched, you should head over to my room and get yourself changed.” Sharon beckoned the waitress over and instructed, “Show her the way to my room!”
The waitress walked over and said, “Please follow me, Ms. Windt.”
“I-It’s fine…” Charlotte didn’t want to put on Sharon’s clothes—she was afraid it was one of Sharon’s many tricks to get the better of her.
Sharon asked rhetorically with a grin, “Aren’t you afraid of embarrassing yourself in front of others? Ever since a few minutes ago, Mr. White has a hard time moving his eyes away from that busty figure of yours. If you don’t get yourself changed, do you want to show it to others when we’re done with our meal?”
“I-I…” Jackson responded with an awkward smile.
“You…” Charlotte couldn’t stand it anymore.
Thankfully, Zachary broke the silence and instructed, “Check her into another room and get her another set of outfits.”
Mistaking a Magnate for a Male Escort Chapter 280
“Yes.” Ben got up from his seat and walked out to carry out Zachary’s instruction right after he took note of it.
Zachary instructed Lucy, “I want you to keep her company.”
“Yes, Mr. Nacht.” Lucy grabbed Charlotte’s hand and brought her away as soon as possible.
Sharon couldn’t keep her cool anymore. She confronted Zachary in front of Jackson, “She’s merely a secretary, isn’t she? Why are you going to great lengths to protect her?”
Zachary paid no heed to Sharon’s words and glanced at Jackson instead. He announced in a callous tone, “Mr. White, I believe your assistance isn’t required anymore!”
As soon as Jackson heard the bad news, he started apologizing, “Mr. Nacht, w-what’s wrong? P-Please, give me another chance to prove myself worthy! I-I definitely won’t repeat the same mistake twice!”
Zachary went dead silent and smashed the glass without a second thought on that score.
Jackson felt a shiver running down his spine and collapsed in his seat when he heard the loud noise of the glass being shattered into pieces.
Meanwhile, Sharon’s face turned pale. Her hands started trembling as she held on to her glass of drink, but she dared not make a noise in fear of offending Zachary more than she had.
Needless to say, Zachary was infuriated. He started emanating a menacing presence, intimidating those around him with his gaze full of murderous intent.
“Get me another bottle!” Zachary instructed the waiter, yet his instruction was a double innuendo, indicating his will to get rid of Jackson and substituting him with another candidate.
“Yes, Sir!” The waiter headed out and returned with a brand new bottle of wine and a glass for Zachary.
Jackson brought himself up from his seat and bowed at Zachary while expressing his apology, “I’m so sorry, Mr. Nacht! I-I must have been blinded by my lust! P-Please forgive me for being an imbecile fool!”
Immediately after he finished his sentence, he bowed once more before bringing himself out of the private dining room.
The color drained from Sharon’s face because she was the only one left behind in the spacious dining suite.
Jackson was an observant man and ruled out the possibility of Zachary and Charlotte’s relationship through the furious man’s response—Zachary got worked up because Charlotte wasn’t merely an employee of his.
He apologized for his so-called mistakes because he failed to notice their relationship and tried to lay a finger on Charlotte.
No matter what sort of chance Sharon had created, Jackson should have known his place and stayed away from Charlotte in the first place.
Since he had crossed the boundaries and started having filthy thoughts, he should prepare himself for the consequences that would be awaiting him.
Jackson begged Zachary to be merciful prior to his departure because he was afraid the powerful man would go after him in the future.
At the end of the day, Jackson was a smart and experienced corporate player from the upper echelon that had been in the industry for a long time.
He was aware of the consequences that would be in store for him should he fail to atone for his sins.
“Aren’t you hungry? Why aren’t you savoring your meal?” Zachary asked Sharon while he cut the steak that was served.
Sharon was no longer her usual arrogant self and stopped getting full of herself in front of Zachary. She lowered her gaze and finished her meal in silence.
“You should refrain from doing such a silly thing in the future. I’m sure you don’t want to trip in a similar manner, do you?”
After Zachary made himself clear, he had a mouthful of steak.
When Sharon heard his words, she paused, and her hands started shivering because she was horrified.
…
There were a racecourse, a gold course, and a hot spring resort at Asheville Garden.
Charlotte and the rest of the party had their meal at the restaurant of the hot spring resort.
After the receptionist showed Charlotte the way to her room, Ben showed up with a maid. They brought Charlotte her new set of clothes.
Lucy expressed her gratitude on behalf of Charlotte and closed the door after she took over the clothes. “I guess Mr. Nacht is serious about you, huh? He has instructed his subordinate to bring you a brand new set of clothes, including a set of lingerie. I must say he’s quite a detail-oriented man.”
Charlotte paid no heed to Lucy’s words because she sat on the couch and lost herself in the process of thought.
Lucy approached Charlotte and waved when she reached her side. “What’s on your mind? You should go take a shower and get changed immediately. It doesn’t feel great being drenched in red wine, does it?”
Charlotte finally returned to her senses. She stated, “Lucy, I want to go back! Let’s go back once I get changed!”
“I—” Lucy received a call when she was about to reply to Charlotte’s suggestion. She tended to the call and picked it up immediately. “Mr. Ben? Huh? Are you serious? A-Alright! I’ll be there at once!”
After she hung up the call, Lucy lowered her volume and denoted, “Mr. White has been terminated from the project. I have to rush over and get the upcoming information ready immediately.”
“Huh? Are you sure? Mr. White is the vice president of Synder Group. What…?” Charlotte was equally surprised by the news.
“Are you sure you’re not aware of the reason behind his termination? It seems like I’m right—Mr. Nacht is serious about you, huh?” Lucy replied with a bright grin as though she had something in her mind.
Charlotte’s mind was all over the place because she was clueless about the rationale behind Zachary’s action.
He seemed to have a crush on her, but he had neglected Charlotte and spent most of his time with another woman.
However, the fact Zachary terminated Jackson because of the things he had done suggested otherwise.