Chapter 3 - Lauren Whispers Poison Into Her Husband's Ear
Lauren wrapped her manicured fingers tightly around Ethan’s arm, pressing her body against his shoulder.
“See? She refuses to reason with us; she’s completely unstable,” Lauren whispered into Ethan's ear.
Ethan nodded slowly, letting Lauren’s toxic words overwrite the memories of Grace’s unwavering support.
“You’re right, Lauren; she’s been impossible to live with for months,” Ethan lied to justify his actions.
Grace stared at the man she had loved since he drove a battered pickup truck and lived on instant ramen.
“I sold my grandmother’s heirloom jewelry to pay your payroll when Walker Development was failing,” Grace reminded him.
Ethan flinched slightly, a flicker of guilt crossing his face before Lauren quickly intervened.
“Don't let her manipulate you with ancient history, Ethan; that was before you made your first million,” Lauren scoffed.
Grace looked at Lauren with absolute pity in her dark, steady eyes.
“You love the bank account, Lauren; you have no idea who the man behind it actually is,” Grace said.
Ethan’s jaw tightened at the insult, his pride overriding whatever conscience he had left.
“Shut up, Grace! You’ve done nothing for this company in three years!” Ethan shouted across the table.
Grace didn't blink at the harsh words, her hand remaining protective over her hidden pregnancy.
“My brothers warned me about men like you, Ethan, but I refused to listen,” Grace murmured softly.
Lauren giggled, a high-pitched, mocking sound that echoed against the mahogany walls.
“Oh, please! What are your precious little brothers going to do? Write a sternly worded letter?” Lauren mocked.
Grace did not answer, keeping her gaze locked on the grandfather clock ticking in the corner hallway.
May you like
The time was 9:08 p.m., exactly twenty-one minutes since she sent those three short words.
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