Meru
Scarlett kicked off her heels, tossed her bag aside, and began taking down the framed photos. She removed and burned the pictures, and then discarded the frames. There were so many more than she had realized on the walls, cabinets, and tables in the living room, hallway, bedroom, study, gym, and walk–in closet.
Her phone rang. It was her father.
The moment she answered, his furious voice erupted.“Scarlett, what’s going on online? Why are you involved in this scandal?”
Scarlett slumped onto the carpet, her voice weary.“Dad…” Her nose tingled, her voice catching.
Steve’s tone softened immediately.“Sweetheart, don’t cry, don’t cry. Daddy’s here! We’re not pushovers! Leave it to me; I’ll skin them alive!”
“His concern broke through her composure. Tears welled
spilling over.
up, the pent–up
emotions of the night
Steve sighed.“Crying won’t change anything, and I’ll teach that bastard Chase and his woman a lesson!”
Scarlett wiped her tears.“No, it’s my fault. I was foolish and naive. I’ve already decided to emigrate; let’s just let it go.”
Steve was exasperated.“You…” He wanted to scold her, but couldn’t bring himself to do so. In the end, he sighed with pity.
Scarlett asked about the immigration process, then hung up. After getting a shower, she went to sleep.
Chase didn’t return all night. No calls, no texts.
Scarlett woke up late, grabbing her phone first. All her photos and videos were gone.
Chase walked in as she ate breakfast. He was still wearing yesterday’s clothes, his hair slightly disheveled. His eyes were bloodshot and had dark circles. He’d clearly had no sleep. He sat opposite her, his voice grim.“You filed those lawsuits?”
Scarlett dabbed her lips with a napkin, meeting his gaze directly.“Yes, I have to protect my rights.” Chase spoke in a businesslike tone.“My company has already signed with Anya. She just got back, and she needs publicity. I’ll give you fifty million to drop the lawsuits and allow them to use your photos and videos for promotion.”
A sardonic smile played on Scarlett’s lips.“Mr. Miller, I’m not your employee. I have no obligation to cooperate with your publicity stunt.”
Chase’s eyebrows furrowed. He slammed his milk down on the table, his cold gaze scrutinizing her.
“Are you jealous? Or angry? Anya hurt her face and ankle; that’s why I rushed her to the hospital. She makes her living with her looks; she can’t be disfigured.”
Scarlett smiled. “I’m not angry. Do what you want with her, just don’t get me involved. Understood?”
His eyes narrowed, his voice icy.“You’ve always been so obedient and understanding. I thought you wouldn’t disappoint me.”
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Scarlett said calmly, “I’m sorry for disappointing you, Mr. Miller, but I have my limits.” Chase felt like he was punching a pillow. He lit a cigarette, inhaled deeply, and exhaled a cloud of smoke. His handsome, weary face, framed by the smoke, possessed a certain aristocratic, decadent beauty.
After a few puffs, he calmed down. Extinguishing the cigarette, he sat next to Scarlett. He pulled her into his arms.“Fine, no photos. Don’t be mad. I’ll give you twenty million. Will you drop the lawsuits? Offending those reporters and influencers will damage the company’s reputation.” He kissed her ear, his hand trailing down her neckline.
Since it was Chase’s company, Scarlett decided to agree, considering it compensation for the past three years. After all, he had done well… in bed.
As she was about to nod, Chase’s phone rang. He answered, still holding her. He spoke in Georgian.
Uri, what is it?”
Uri sounded as sly as usual.“Did you talk to Scarlett? Did she agree to drop the suit? Those reporters and influencers are hounding Anya; she’s in tears.”
Chase sounded nonchalant.“Of course, she’ll agree.”
Uri chuckled.“Man, I’m so jealous of you. I kind of like Scarlett. Now that you you should give me Scarlett. I deserve something good.”
Chase tightened his grip
Scarlett, on
his
voice
cold.“Not
have Anya, maybe
happen!”
gonna
Scarlett heard it clearly. Chase didn’t make himself very clear, leading her to believe his company
was responsible. But it was Anya’s doing.
