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Chapter 1
It's her wedding anniversary. Lexi had come to the hospital to remove her baby.

Several married couples sat around her. In contrast, Lexi seemed pitiful because she was about to remove her child, and she was there alone.

Lexi had accompanied Zachary on a business trip two months ago. They attended a party, which caused her to get drunk.

She was alone in the hotel room when she awoke the next day.

The smell of a wild night had filled the room while crumpled clothes were scattered on the floors by then. Among the items were Lexi's garments and Zachary's white shirt.

Lexi's heart beat wildly and exuberantly with delight at that moment.

Zachary had finally accepted her romantic feelings for him after all those years.

…

Alas, Zachary practically chopped Lexi's happiness into pieces with a cleaver last night.

Lexi had tested the waters by asking him what would happen if she were expecting their child.

Zachary touched her stomach without much care while lightly scoffing. "Remove it, then. Also, I would never let you have my baby."

Those steely, candid words caused goosebumps to prickle all over Lexi's body.

She had been his secretary for five years, loved him for numerous years, and had become his wife for two years.

Even a dog would have developed feelings for someone after all that time!

Lexi never imagined Zachary could utter such relentless words after all the time they had been together.

…

Lexi smiled disparagingly as she recalled the conversation with Zachary last night.

Before her smile faded away, she saw Zachary strolling toward her with one arm around the other woman.

She tensed and lowered her head out of instinct almost immediately.

"Isn't that Ms. Loyle?" said the woman, Yvonne Xenos. She removed her face mask, raised her eyebrows in surprise, and tugged at Zachary's shirt.

She motioned at him to go toward Lexi. "I'd like to speak with Ms. Loyle real quick."

"You should go and see a doctor first." Zachary's tone wasn't as unyielding and as cold as usual. Instead, there was a trace of gentleness in his voice.

"I haven't seen Ms. Loyle in ages. I just want to say a few things to her. That's all." Yvonne blinked her round, doe eyes at Zachary. "You don't have to worry so much. I only fainted because of menstrual pains and low blood pressure."

Lexi soon noticed that someone was standing in front of her. She looked up and saw her employer and husband on paper.

He stood unashamed as he hugged the woman around the waist.

Lexi froze, and the cogs in her brain were unable to turn like they usually did.

"Long time no see, Ms. Loyle. My, how pretty you've become!" Yvonne spoke with a delighted lilt.

Meanwhile, Lexi bitterly wondered when Yvonne, Zachary's first love, had returned to the country.

Unable to smile, Lexi pursed her lips. She spoke politely. "Indeed, it's been a while."

Yvonne pressed her lips together, too. She let out a dainty laugh before commenting, "Thank you for going through the trouble of looking after Zach these past few years. Only you could tolerate his nasty temper."

"Zach. Why's she talking as if she's close with him when they broke up four years ago!" Lexi thought.

Despite that thought, Lexi put on a slight smile. "It's no trouble. After all, Jenkins Corporation pays well."

That was when the nurse brought a wheelchair over. Then, Zachary gingerly helped Yvonne, whom he was hugging this entire time, into the wheelchair.

It was a surprising sight to Lexi, who realized Zachary only treated certain women with such gentleness.

Lexi's smile was thin. At the same time, she felt suffocated.

Yvonne gazed up at Zachary to thank him before she looked back at Lexi again. "Are you here to see a doctor, Ms. Loyle?"

"No, I've already seen a doctor and am about to leave."

Yvonne pouted, tugged Zachary's sleeve, and leaned against his arm. She spoke with a honeyed voice. "I'm craving chocolate all of a sudden. I really want some."

"Go and see a doctor first." Zachary sounded helpless. In the next second, his bland gaze shifted in Lexi's way. "Ms. Loyle, please get a box of chocolates and deliver it to the fifth floor later."

The hairs on Lexi's neck stood straight as she wanted to let out a self-deprecating scoff. She couldn't believe Zachary was making his wife get chocolates for his ex-girlfriend.

Lexi's lips curled up out of the blue. She figured it was fine to get an surgery in another hospital.

Yvonne gave a gentle tap on Zachary's arm. She rolled her eyes as if she couldn't believe him. "Ms. Loyle must be unwell since she came to the hospital today. How could you request her to buy some chocolates? Gosh!"

"It's her job to do what I tell her to." Those words rolled off Zachary's tongue like he couldn't care less.

Even so, Lexi agreed it was her job to do as told. Upon hearing Zachary's response, she lowered her head to disguise the sorrow in her eyes.

The pride in her veins prevented her from looking too much like a loser in front of her competitor. So, she flashed a faint smile. "That's indeed my job as a secretary, Ms. Xenos."

After giving the two a respectful nod, she clutched her bag tight and hurried away.

…

Lexi went to a supermarket near the hospital to buy a box of chocolates.

Then, she returned to the hospital and took the elevator to the fifth floor. Once the bell rang and the doors opened, she saw Yvonne hugging Zachary's waist as the duo kissed.

Lexi's stomach turned at once. She covered her pale lips and couldn't help dry-heaving while placing a hand against the mirrored walls in the elevator for support.

The duo's eyes met hers in that instant.

Yet, the elevator doors soon shut.

Tears gathered in Lexi's eyes, and she was still dry-heaving in the elevator. Fortunately, she was the only person in the elevator.

Yvonne's eyes widened at the closing elevator doors. She had heard some hurling sounds, so she asked, "What's wrong with Ms. Loyle?"

Zachary's eyes were dark and solemn by then. He was deep in thought and reflecting on how Lexi had abruptly asked about expecting a child last night.

…

Lexi handed the box of chocolates to the nurse. She asked the nurse to take it to Zachary, who was on the fifth floor.

She drove home, and the first thing she did was pack her suitcase to move out the next day.

As Lexi expected, her and Zachary's two years of marriage were so flimsy that they crumbled after one blow. She accepted her fate. She knew it was time to end this dream she had been living in.

Zachary's grandma, Martha Inman, wanted to see Zachary get married while she was still alive.

At the time, Zachary casually asked Lexi if she wanted to get married with a prenuptial agreement. He even offered to pay Lexi a great sum to get married.

Lexi had a crush on Zachary for forever. Not to mention, she urgently needed the money back then. So, she agreed to the marriage contract.

Despite it being a contractual marriage, Lexi still gave her utmost sincerity to it. She figured her genuine love could one day win over Zachary.

Yet, Yvonne had returned to the country now, which made Lexi realize how ridiculous her former optimism was.

She snorted at herself for being so naïve.

…

Lexi forced herself to remain calm while waiting for Zachary to come home that night.

She wanted to resolve the situation once he returned. So, she waited from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm and even called Zachary several times. Alas, he never answered.

Zachary didn't go home that night.

Lexi received a message from Zachary's younger sister, Mary Jenkins. Mary had forwarded a post from Yvonne's social media account.

In the photo, Zachary donned a bathrobe as he helped blowdry Yvonne's hair.

It was late at night. Yet, he was elsewhere in a bathrobe. He was even helping to dry his ex-girlfriend's hair.

Lexi's gaze hardened at the photo. Her eyes burned as she blinked a few times. Then, she scoffed.

Emotionless, Lexi opened the drawer and searched for the marriage contract she signed two years ago.

Once she located it, she read the last clause in the contract. "The party who initiates a divorce before the five years of contractual marriage ends must pay the other party 200 million as compensation for liquidated damages."

When they got married, Lexi asked for 30 million as her dowry. To her surprise, Zachary transferred 100 million to her bank account right away.

Lexi calculated her bank savings. She had 90 million left after deducting her younger brother's chemotherapy costs. She didn't have enough for the 200 million compensation if she initiated a divorce now.

That caused Lexi to squish her cheeks with both hands in frustration. Eventually, she put away the marriage contract, got changed, grabbed her keys, and headed out.

…

There were many bars in Sootfort City.

Lexi had never been to such places before. Today, she came to a bar and get drink, but she didn't drink it.

After thinking about the child in her stomach, she put down her glass. She pursed her lips bitterly. She was frustrated that she couldn't even vent her anger by drinking.

Lexi exited the bar and sniffled. She felt like an idiot for crying. Despite loving him for all those years, she ended up all alone.

A taxi was parked in front of her, its roof sign still illuminated. Thinking that it was vacant, Lexi opened the door and got in before speaking in a nasal voice. "Please take me to Flowerhill Estate."

The taxi driver looked at the man and woman in the backseat through the rearview mirror. He assumed the two were an arguing couple and offered some advice out of kind intent. "Sir, from one man to another, you should be more patient with women."

Then, the driver started the engine and drove ahead.

That was when Lexi snapped to her senses. She whipped her head to the side. Her red, swollen eyes blearily snapped toward the man beside her. The man wore a face mask, which prevented her from seeing his full face.

"Sir, please stop the car. I'm so sorry. I got into the wrong taxi," she said.

Speechless, the driver stopped along the road.

Lexi apologized several times before getting out. Then, her wandering eyes caught sight of the man in the backseat, who was also looking at her.

…

Zachary only came home the next morning to change into a fresh set of clothes.

He had noticed the few suitcases in the living room when he returned. So, he casually asked about it in his hoarse voice while taking off his shirt. "Who's the guest that's staying over at our place?"

"Those suitcases are mine." Lexi's gaze snapped toward the lipstick stain on Zachary's white dress shirt. She pointed at it while stating, "That's a woman's lipstick."

Zachary pulled his collar lower and examined it. To his surprise, there was indeed a lipstick stain. For a split second, his features tensed.

Yet, he quickly resumed his usual frosty demeanor and didn't bother explaining himself.

"I knew he'd react like this," Lexi thought while scoffing.

A frown marred Zachary's forehead. "What's with the laugh?"

"Oh, it's nothing. I merely read a joke earlier this morning. I'm going to work now." Lexi picked up her handbag and subconsciously changed into a pair of flats while heading out the door.

Meanwhile, Zachary headed upstairs to the bedroom. He stripped and went into the bathroom but soon realized Lexi hadn't left a change of clothes for him in there.

It was odd because Lexi would always prepare a fresh set of clothes for him beforehand if he wanted to shower.

His eyes narrowed as he left the bathroom. He phoned Lexi while walking to the closet. "I forgot to ask you something."

He opened a drawer and continued, "You're carrying a child, are you?"

His voice lacked warmth as it rang into Lexi's ear, and it made her heart race fervently.

Chapter 2

Lexi parked her car by the roadside. She calmly denied Zachary's assumption by saying, "I'm not. It's just that my stomach hasn't been feeling well these past few days."

Zachary leaned against the closet. His eyes were steely as he sneered. "You'd better not be lying to me, Lexi. It's no longer popular for women to secure their position as a wealthy man's wife just by bearing the man's child."

Lexi's heart sank to her stomach.

She couldn't believe that was what Zachary thought of her. While caressing her still flat stomach, she spoke calmly. "How could I be a mother, Mr. Jenkins? We used protection that night."

Zachary rise a brow. He was speechless at her response.

…

After half a day of meetings at the office, Lexi delivered a cup of freshly made coffee to Zachary's office around noon.

She also placed the documents he had asked her for a few days prior on his desk.

Her gaze swept past the information on the document just then.

Jenkins Corporation owned businesses. However, they had never been involved with the entertainment industry. Yet, the company stated on the document—Tundratide Entertainment—was a major company in said industry.

Lexi had also just seen the news and learned Yvonne had officially signed with Tundratide Entertainment today. Yvonne was now one of their contracted artists.

With that in mind, Lexi wondered if Zachary planned to acquire Tundratide Entertainment and become the company's main shareholder for Yvonne's sake.

Lexi didn't leave the office. Instead, she was determined to discuss what happened last night with Zachary. "I see that Ms. Xenos is back in the country."

Zachary stopped working and leaned against his chair at once. A frosty stare radiated from him. "You shouldn't poke your nose into places it doesn't belong, Mrs. Jenkins."

He had called her "Mrs. Jenkins" as a warning.

Lexi paused for a few seconds. It would be a lie to say she wasn't upset. Still, she was determined to ask what was necessary. "Are you planning to divorce me now that she's back?"

Zachary glanced at her impassively. "You may continue being Mrs. Jenkins since Grandma likes you."

He knew there was one other thing Lexi was good at—making Martha happy.

Lexi's hands balled into fists once she heard his response. Sorrow and disappointment weighed down her.

From what Zachary said, he still wanted to continue their marriage only because Martha liked her. He was willing to stay married to her longer to keep Martha happy in the latter's last years of life.

But what about her? Was she to continue existing as a joke between Zachary and Yvonne?

Zachary's phone was on the table, and it rang at that moment.

Lexi saw the name "Yvonne" on the caller ID. Zachary had always saved Lexi's contact as "Ms. Loyle." Meanwhile, he had saved the name of his first love and ex-girlfriend on his phone.

Lexi remained emotionless as she waited for Zachary to finish his phone call. Then, she informed him that the Zox family's banquet was tonight.

Zachary flipped through Tundratide Entertainment's documents. At the same time, he responded to Lexi without bothering to raise his head. "I have something else to do tonight. I want you to deliver my gift to Mr. Zox Senior on my behalf."

"Understood." Lexi turned to leave the office.

Zachary peered at her. He watched her leave before going back to browsing the document.

…

Tonight was Harold Zox's 66th birthday celebration. His family, the Zoxes, had organized the banquet to be at Mullaby Hotel.

Lexi donned a blue custom-made gown when she brought Zachary's present to the hotel that night.

"Welcome, Ms. Loyle. And thank you for coming." A smiling Harold Zox shook hands with Lexi.

Jenkins Corporation only made big business and was Zox Corporation's biggest client. Not only that, but Lexi was also one of Zachary's most capable secretaries. With all that in mind, Harold was respectful toward Lexi.

"Mr. Jenkins couldn't make it since something came up at the last minute. On his behalf, I wish you a blessed and happy birthday, Mr. Zox Senior." Lexi's lips curved into a polite smile as she dedicated a toast to him.

Harold nodded understandingly. He admired Lexi's capability to execute her job well. "I'm happy enough that you made it here—"

He froze after saying that, and the atmosphere around them became tense.

Lexi noticed the brief awkward look from Harold. She instinctively turned around, only to see Yvonne in a white dress. The latter held hands with Zachary as they entered the banquet hall.

Lexi's faint smile turned stiff. So, this was what Zachary meant by he had something else to do tonight."

"Happiest of birthdays, Mr. Zox Senior!" Yvonne's eyes twinkled with delight as she beamed at Harold.

"Thank you."

"Happy birthday, Mr. Zox Senior." Zachary picked up a wine glass from a waiter's tray. He then raised it to clink glasses with Harold.

Yvonne glanced at Lexi and greeted her. "Ms. Loyle."

A soft smile appeared on Lexi's face as she nodded. "Ms. Xenos."

The band hired to be in the banquet began playing a tune for a classical ballroom dance.

Some male guests had invited other female guests to dance by then.

"Did you come here alone, Ms. Loyle?" Yvonne asked.

"My companion got into a car accident on the way here," Lexi answered.

With widened eyes, Yvonne exclaimed, "Is he alright?"

Harold joined in to ask about Lexi's companion with concern. After all, it was his birthday banquet. It would seem like bad luck if his guests got into a car accident.

Lexi explained with a smile, "Don't worry, Mr. Zox Senior. His and someone's car scratched each other from being too close on the road. He's merely held back because the other party is insisting on getting compensation."

A noticeable sigh of relief came from Harold. "Oh, that's good to hear."

Once Harold went to mingle with the other guests, Lexi's friendly countenance dropped. She marched away with her back straight. Her expression was frosty, and her heels clicked on the floor as she paced away. She wanted to go home and type her resignation letter at once.

A confused Yvonne whispered, "Doesn't Ms. Loyle seem unhappy?"

Zachary's attention was on Lexi as she left. That was when he noticed Harold's oldest son, Xavier Zox, inviting Lexi to dance. With his eyes narrowing slightly, he remarked, "She's not unhappy."

"How could she feel unhappy? She was in the mood to dance with another man." Zachary thought.

Zachary couldn't believe Lexi would dare dance with Xavier, a womanizer. He wondered if she had a death wish.

On the flip side, Lexi never imagined Xavier would grab her arm and force her onto the dance floor. She didn't want to cause a scene by resisting him since they were at a banquet. So, it left her in an extremely foul mood.

The stench of liquor wafted into her nostrils, causing her brows to knit. "Please unhand me, Mr. Zox."

Xavier had one arm around her waist. He held her tighter after she said that, and his lips curved with determination. "Why don't you consider working at Zox Corporation instead, Ms. Loyle? The pay is double what you earn at Jenkins Corporation. What do you think?"

With disgust, Lexi pointed out the facts indifferently. "You won't be in control of Zox Corporation anytime soon."

Despite getting smacked in the face by Lexi's harsh rejection, Xavier wasn't upset. He was always patient when dealing with beautiful women. So, his hand continued to linger on Lexi's waist as he caressed it.

Lexi's expression darkened as she raised her leg and stomped hard on Xavier's leather shoe. Her tall heel pierced through the leather and landed on the top of Xavier's foot.

Pain shot throughout Xavier's foot. His features twisted into a hideous scowl as he released Lexi's arm.

Lexi spun on her heel to flee at once. She left the banquet and exited the hotel.

"Hold it right there, Lexi Loyle!" Xavier barked.

Lexi frowned and regretted not stomping harder on his foot.

Xavier grabbed her hand.

"Watch yourself, Mr. Zox," said an impatient and frosty Lexi.

Xavier focused on her unfriendly yet alluring face. Excitement bubbled up within him. A woman with such unapproachable energy but also tempting curves was attractive. As such, he had long desired Lexi.

A chuckle left his lips as he commented, "Must you do this, Ms. Loyle? Why bother with this act of sternness? I'm sure Mr. Jenkins has gotten tired of toying with you by now."

Lexi inhaled sharply but still flashed a smirk. "You can ask Mr. Jenkins if he's grown tired of me."

She lifted her chin and motioned for him to look behind them where Zachary and Yvonne stood.

Lexi saw how Zachary watched her get harassed by another man. He didn't do anything about it.

Chapter 3

Zachary stood there with his ex-girlfriend, who he linked arms with. Meanwhile, he watched Xavier attacking Lexi.

It was ironic because someone once said that a man would show some possessiveness over a woman if he truly loved her.

As she stood beneath the warm lights, Lexi felt like her heart had been ripped to shreds.

Xavier thought Lexi was trying to lie to him, so he chuckled viciously. "Mr. Jenkins is keeping a beautiful lady company. Don't even think about fooling me. Shall we take this conversation elsewhere, Ms. Loyle? What do you think?"

Lexi held Zachary's gaze and spoke with a bland tone. "Mr. Jenkins, Mr. Zox is asking whether you've grown tired of toying with me."

She then watched him in silence while waiting for his response.

Zachary held Yvonne's hand as they walked past Lexi.

In that instance, Lexi realized that Zachary's answer no longer mattered.

Yvonne turned around just then. She shot a megawatt smile at Xavier while clarifying things. "Zachary and Ms. Loyle are merely employer and employee. Watch your words, Mr. Zox. Otherwise, I'll be mad at you."

Xavier chuckled and nodded. "Alright, alright. I won't utter any nonsense."

Once Zachary and Yvonne walked away hand-in-hand, he forced Lexi into his car and kissed her cheek.

"I'll call the cops on you, Xavier!" Lexi screamed as she shoved Xavier off her in disgust. Alas, her strength was no match for a man whose stature was bigger than her.

Xavier held her slim waist while guffawing. "Cry out all you want, Ms. Loyle. I'm not afraid. Also, there's no use in you calling the cops. I'm merely touching and kissing you, not screwing you."

Rage brimmed in Lexi as she felt offended by the former's shamelessness.

Xavier was about to kiss her again.

Lexi's striking eyes morphed into a vicious glare as she kneed him.

"Argh!" Xavier hunched his back.

…

Later in the dead of night, Lexi followed Quinton Shaw out of the police station.

Like Lexi, Quinton was also one of Zachary's secretaries.

"Please take me to Watton Hotel, Mr. Shaw. Thank you for helping me tonight," said Lexi.

Quinton peered at her from the corner of his eye before looking ahead to say, "Mr. Jenkins was the one who asked me to pick you up."

Lexi's lips tugged into a thin line as she coldly responded, "I see."

Zachary was nowhere to be seen when she was being harassed by Xavier. Because of that, she didn't feel any hint of gratitude toward Zachary.

Quinton hesitated to speak but ultimately explained, "Ms. Loyle… Mr. Jenkins wanted to pick you up himself."

"Oh? So where is he? Why isn't he here."

Quinton closed his mouth. He felt it was too awkward to continue.

Lexi looked down at her phone and saw another text from Mary. The latter had forwarded Yvonne's latest post. That was when Lexi discovered why Zachary hadn't picked her up from the police station in person.

Zachary had accompanied his ex-girlfriend to the hospital yet again.

A low chuckle rumbled from Lexi as she replied to Mary's text. She asked Mary to invite Yvonne out for a meeting tomorrow on her behalf.

…

Quinton's car soon arrived outside Watton Hotel.

Lexi told Quinton not to send her inside since it was unnecessary. Exhausted, she exited the car and get into the hotel.

The lobby was mostly quiet at that hour.

When she made it to the elevator, there happened to be a tall and fit man talking on the phone there. He get into the elevator once its doors opened.

Lexi went in, too. She had just gone inside when her heel slipped, and she subconsciously reached ahead to grab the man.

The man held her arm and supported her from stumbling.

Lexi's palms grew clammy. She was still rattled. After regaining her footing, she apologized to the man. "S-Sorry. I didn't mean to…"

The man wore a mask, so she could only see his dark gaze. He looked like the man she had encountered in the taxi that one time.

He had dropped his phone because he had reached out to support Lexi. Not only that, but the man was also holding a coffee cup in his left hand, which had also fallen. That caused the coffee to spill onto his white shirt.

"Did you burn yourself, sir?" She worried the cup he held earlier contained hot coffee.

The man glanced at her with his brows slightly furrowed. He bent forward to pick up his phone from the ground.

Then, his voice rang out lazily as he told the person on the other end that he was ending the call.

Lexi spoke with sincerity. "I'm so, so sorry. I'll reimburse you for the damages."

The man's name was Claude Quall. His eyes glanced over Lexi again. He took in her formal dress, slender waist, and curvy figure. He didn't say much except, "That won't be necessary."

His voice was low and gravelly.

He turned sideways. Then, he casually stepped back to put some distance between him and Lexi.

Lexi feigned a calm demeanor as she pressed the button to her floor. She stayed on the tenth floor while the man's room was on the 12th.

Claude's gaze shifted downward while he fell into deep thought. He had found Lexi oddly familiar when he saw her in the taxi last night. It felt like she was the woman who got into his bed and beded him for two months.

"Let's discuss the details of your compensation," he said.

Lexi paused midway while exiting the elevator when she heard that.

…

The two soon stood in the hallway on the 12th floor.

Claude had already taken off his coffee-stained dress shirt, and his sculpted abs were exposed. A frown creased his forehead, making it obvious he was uncomfortable. He would take off his shirt if Lexi weren't here.

Lexi dared not stare past Claude's shirt and to his bare body. She could only force her attention to remain on Claude's eyes. "How much should I compensate you for the damages, sir? I'll transfer it."

"I've changed my mind," Claude abruptly stated. He had only stopped Lexi from leaving because he wanted to see whether she was the woman from before.

Lexi's brows arched with slight confusion. She watched the man swipe his card on the door's scanner before disappearing into his hotel room. Then, she left the 12th floor.

…

Light jazz music played in Nullem Cafe.

Yvonne sat opposite Lexi. Since she was a big-time celebrity, she wore a hat and mask to conceal her face. With a slight smile, she asked, "Did you ask to meet me because you needed something from me, Ms. Loyle?"

Lexi nodded. A half-smile flickered on her face. "There is something I need."

She held herself with reticence while sternly staring at Yvonne. It felt like a scene in a movie where the wife confronted her husband's mistress.

It was clear to Lexi that the only way to get Zachary to initiate a divorce was by provoking Yvonne.

So, she said, "Ms. Xenos, I don't want you to interfere with me and Zachary's life. Since you chose to leave him back then, you shouldn't seek him out after returning to the country now—"

Everyone in the industry knew Zachary once had an ex-girlfriend he loved dearly.

However, Martha disliked Yvonne, so the latter could never marry into the Jenkins family.

Yvonne didn't want to give up on her singing career at the time either. Because of that, she chose to break up with Zachary and go abroad to study music.

Lexi continued in a gentle voice, "Since you've given up on your relationship with Zachary, please cut off all ties with him for good. Can you do that?"

Yvonne's eyes snapped wide open in disbelief. "You and Zachary…? Are you…"

Lexi nodded. "Zachary and I have been married for two years."

After Lexi said that, Yvonne stiffened in utter shock. Her eyes reddened almost instantly. "You and Zachary are married?"

Lexi felt like the wicked villain who got in between two lovers in every story. "Yeah, we're married."

Just then, Zachary sat in the booth behind the women's. He heard Lexi revealing their marriage to Yvonne. Right away, a thunderous expression shrouded his face, his lips pressed into a thin line, and his eyes narrowed to pinpricks.

The cafe was designed well. All the tables came with partitions, which created private booth seating for everyone.

Zachary and Lexi had agreed not to tell anyone about their marriage. It seemed that Lexi had grown arrogant and possessive, even though they were only in a contractual marriage.

Yvonne frowned. She was still in disbelief. "You're lying to me, aren't you, Ms. Loyle?"

A brief pause passed before Lexi answered, "I'm not. I can show you our marriage certificate."

She had come prepared, so she fetched the marriage certificate from her bag and showed it to Yvonne.

Yvonne removed her mask and revealed her pretty face. She had a sweet, innocent beauty. It was the kind of beauty that most movie characters' first loves had.

Meanwhile, Lexi possessed a more striking, gorgeous appearance.

"Zachary didn't tell me you two are married when he was with me last night, Ms. Loyle. I could've sworn I felt he was still in love with me." Yvonne's expression dulled as she mentioned that. She hinted to Lexi that she and Zachary were together last night.

Lexi maintained her smile as if unbothered. "Men are the same in bed. He says he loves me too, when he's bedding me."

A hostile energy oozed from Zachary, who suppressed his anger when he heard this from his booth. He already had the desire to choke Lexi to death.

On the other hand, Yvonne covered her lips upon hearing that. Tears even streamed down her eyes.

However, Lexi wasn't satisfied and wanted to take things further. She was doing everything in her power to make Zachary initiate a divorce. "Ms. Xenos, I can't stop you if you're that determined to be a mistress—"

"That's enough!" A man's infuriated voice rang out.

Lexi whipped her head around, only to be startled by a seething Zachary. He was trying hard to suppress his fury. Lexi was stunned.

Chapter 4

Zachary first had Quinton send Lexi back to Flowerhill Estate.

Once Lexi got into the car, she looked through the window and saw Zachary hugging Yvonne. He seemed to be comforting her.

The corners of Lexi's lips curved upward with a hint of bitterness yet relief.

When she asked Mary to invite Yvonne out last night, she knew Mary would rat her out to Zachary. None of this was surprising to her. Everything had gone according to her plan.

Quinton soon drove ahead. Upon stopping for a red light, he turned around to look at Lexi. "You're intelligent, Ms. Loyle. Why did you have to upset Boss?"

He and Lexi had worked together for five years, so he witnessed how Lexi looked after Zachary with the utmost care.

Lexi even took cooking classes every night after work to better care for Zachary's stomach. She trained her cooking skills until they were comparable to an award-winning chef's.

She looked after Zachary with great attentiveness.

Lexi tucked her loose strands of hair behind her ears and rested her arm against the car window frame. Her eyes glistened with clarity like never before.

After all, why insist on winning over a man's affections when he never loved her?

She tilted her head with a playful wink at Quinton. "It's because I'm incredibly intelligent, Mr. Shaw."

That rendered Quinton speechless, but he soon scoffed. "How can you be in the mood to joke around at a moment like this?"

What he meant by that was, "How can you still joke around when Zachary's already angry?"

A soft chuckle came from Lexi, who was in a good mood.

Then, the two no longer spoke.

…

There were bodyguards stationed outside Flowerhill Estate. Because of that, Lexi couldn't flee even if she wanted to.

Quinton dropped Lexi off at Flowerhill Estate before driving off.

Lexi couldn't leave the villa in the estate if Zachary didn't allow it.

She fell asleep on the couch for the rest of the night. Meanwhile, the living room television was tuned to a boring channel.

Zachary stared down at the slumbering Lexi when he came home. There was a relaxed, welcoming energy to her when she was asleep. It was unlike her aloof demeanor when she was his secretary in the daytime.

Zachary's forehead creased as he frowned. He bent forward.

Lexi awoke from her sleep when she felt someone pinching her chin.

Zachary had used brute force when doing it, so Lexi was in immense pain. It struck her hard and snapped her out of her bleary state. She was more alert now.

Her eyes opened wide to see a cold Zachary staring at her. She could even smell Yvonne's perfume lingering on him.

Lexi's forehead creased, and her stomach turned in disgust.

The lights inside the villa weren't on, save for one desk lamp and the light from the television. Those light sources faintly illuminated the darkness.

Half of Zachary's attractive face was hidden in the darkness. Only an icy tone rang out when he spoke. "Who gave you the nerve to blabber nonsense to Yvonne, Lexi?"

Lexi was lying on the couch, and she lowered her gaze. She did not say anything because anything she said would be wrong.

"Did a cat get your tongue? Speak!" He gripped her chin without mercy.

He exerted so much strength that he forced Lexi's slender neck to curve as he made her look at him.

Lexi was forced to raise her head. Her striking eyes soon settled on his cold expression.

Her jaw hurt so badly that tears naturally flowed from her eyes. Still, she responded calmly, "I only told her the truth. You and I are indeed legally married. Did I say anything wrong?"

Zachary held her chin in a tight grip while spouting venomous words. "It's only a marriage certificate, Lexi. Have you forgotten about our marriage contract? You were despicable enough to sign the contract just because you needed money."

Lexi knew she likely looked pale then. She blinked while processing his words. So, he thought she was despicable, huh?

She soon gritted her teeth, snorted, and spoke up. "I'm not despicable. It's that we were both only using each other."

Sheer loathing echoed in Zachary's voice. "What silver tongue you have, Ms. Loyle. Only you could do something as vile as bartering your body off."

"What do you mean by 'barter'?" A frown marred Lexi's face.

Zachary let out a low chuckle. He drew a strong finger from her chin to her slim, frail neck and continued downward.

Lexi froze at once.

"You've got a decent body. It's no wonder that brat, Xavier, wanted to lure you to his company with a high salary," he said with a low growl. Then, he lifted the hem of her top and reached beneath it.

That took Lexi by surprise. She held his hand in place and prevented it from advancing.

Zachary suddenly pinched her plump skin, causing her to glare at him with red eyes.

An uncaring look came from Zachary.

Lexi noticed that his other hand was also moving downwards. She looked at him with a dark expression but spoke sardonically. "For you to be interested in my body means you don't love Yvonne as deeply as I thought."

It was hard to discern the meaning behind Zachary's smile just then. With a scoff, he commented, "You think too highly of yourself. I wouldn't have slept with you if I hadn't had a fever and been drunk that night."

Zachary's hand still lingered on Lexi's skin. His eyes narrowed with hatred but also confusion. They supposedly bedded for the first time two months ago, but he couldn't remember it at all. He figured it could have been because his fever left him delirious, and Lexi seized the chance to do it with him.

Regardless, the way he spoke about it now sounded like he was utterly repulsed by that night.

Lexi took a deep breath. She stood, linked an arm around his neck, and leaned into his ear while chuckling lightly. "But you seemed very into me that night. We had a second round."

She brazenly traced one of her fingers around his leather belt.

Zachary's expression soured while his gaze deepened with even more detestation. He pried Lexi's arm off his neck and stood. "Don't waste your time doing unnecessary things, Lexi. If Grandma didn't like you so much, I wouldn't mind giving you to Xavier after the stunt you pulled today."

Upon hearing that, Lexi felt like a true and complete failure.

Since Zachary could say something as cruel as giving her away to someone, it meant he never once had feelings for her these past few years. "Remember to visit Grandma at the hospital tomorrow. Don't tell her anything you shouldn't."

Zachary coldly straightened his shirt before glaring daggers at Lexi and hurrying off.

…

Martha beamed brilliantly when her precious grandson and granddaughter-in-law held hands and entered the hospital. "Come and sit here with me, my darling Lex."

Only a gentle look filled her eyes as she gazed at Zachary. "I dreamt you two gave me an adorable great-grandbaby last night, Zachary. It was the cutest little baby."

Zachary gave her a faint smile. It was a rare moment when he tried to cheer Martha up. "I promise we're trying hard, Grandma."

Martha's cancer cells had begun spreading in her body, so she only had one to two years left to live.

Zachary usually let his grandma down when it came to topics like marriage and children. So, he'd always tell white lies to appease her.

"You two have been married for two years! Why hasn't there been any good news yet?" Martha was inexplicably obsessed with getting a great-grandchild before her death.

Lexi didn't say a word and only lowered her head while pretending to be shy.

Martha only nagged at Zachary briefly before turning to comfort Lexi. "There's no need to worry, Lex. I'm only bringing it up casually. It's not time for us to meet your future baby yet. You two are still young, after all."

"I know, Grandma." Lexi suddenly felt uncomfortable. Her expression shifted as she sprinted to the bathroom to puke.

Excitement coursed through Martha's veins when she heard the sounds of Lexi hurling. She held Zachary's hands at once, asking, "Could Lexi expecting… a baby?"

A light snort came from Zachary while his gaze darkened. "She's just having an upset stomach, Grandma."

Chapter 5

"Are you sure? Did you take her to the hospital to get checked up?" Martha refused to drop the topic.

That was when Lexi exited the bathroom. Only she knew how unnerved and panicked she was in that instant.

"Lex, are you carrying a baby?" Martha asked with delight while gazing at the former's stomach.

Lexi flashed a faint smile while shaking her head. "Grandma, I've already gone for a check-up at the hospital. I just have an upset stomach, is all."

Martha was a little disappointed. "You must take care of your health. Pay more attention to your recent eating habits."

Lexi nodded.

Zachary left the room to answer a phone call while Lexi fed Martha some sliced apples. Lexi also chatted with Martha and tried to lift her spirits.

After chatting for a while, Lexi left the ward with the empty fruit bowl. As she passed the private lounge area, she heard Mary's voice. It sounded like Mary was mocking her.

"Zach, I was outside the ward earlier. I overheard Grandma nagging at you to give her a great-grandchild." Mary sounded annoyed as she continued, "Grandma's probably lost her mind now that she's old. How's Lexi worthy of birthing our family's great-grandchild?"

Zachary's dead-eyed stare flickered toward her. He was warning her not to continue. He didn't mind it if Mary insulted Lexi, but he refused to let Mary show any disrespect to Martha.

Mary cowered before sticking her tongue out playfully. "Sorry, Zach. I was only venting about how unfair it is for you."

"She won't have my baby," said Zachary, his voice bland.

"I knew you'd be sensible." Mary merrily left once she got the response she wanted.

She opened the door and saw Lexi standing outside. One of her brows arched almost immediately. "A woman Zachary bought for 100 million doesn't deserve to give birth to our family's children. You'd best know your place, Lexi. Got it?"

Mary loved mocking Lexi for being the bride that cost 100 millions.

That was when Lexi lowered her voice and spoke with a gentle, soothing tone. "Oh, sweet Mare, your brother can't do it. So he and I won't have any children. Do you understand?"

"Why, you!" Mary scowled at Lexi. "Quit spewing lies, you vile brat!"

Lexi smirked. "I'm not lying, dear sister-in-law. I'm speaking based on my experience."

Mary's face grew harder when she heard that. "You shameless woman! You're unworthy of being my sister-in-law and can never match up to Yvonne!"

"Indeed, you're right. I'll never compare to your precious Yvonne, but the undeniable truth is I'm Zachary's wife." A smug grin spread across Lexi's face.

"How dare you?" Mary raised her hand and wanted to slap Lexi's face, which she felt was unnecessarily charming. She believed Lexi's beauty was what allowed Lexi to seduce men everywhere.

Lexi lifted the empty bowl in her hand and promptly blocked the incoming slap.

Mary's delicate hand slammed against the bowl, causing her to shriek in pain.

That was when the private lounge door opened, and Zachary appeared at the doorway.

"Zach, she hit me with her bowl! Look! My hand's all red now!" Mary pouted pitifully while lying. She claimed that Lexi had attacked her first.

"She's the one who hit the bowl," Lexi calmly explained.

Zachary's indifferent gaze swept toward Lexi. "Be aware of your place."

"What is my place?" Lexi asked.

"Mary is a Jenkins family member—"

Zachary had just started speaking, but Lexi reached up and slapped her right cheek hard. It was a resounding slap.

Lexi's face reddened in seconds, proving how merciless she was to herself.

Zachary was baffled for a split second. He never imagined that Lexi would slap herself.

A triumphant smirk smeared all over Mary's face as she peered at Lexi. She then snickered and said, "I'm heading off now, Zach."

Her heels clicked as she strolled off pridefully.

Not a trace of emotion showed on Lexi's face as she was about to leave to wash the empty bowl.

"Wait," Zachary called out. His eyes narrowed to pinpricks as he studied her.

Lexi took one step back. She watched as Zachary took out his phone and made a call. Her heart sank with dread once she heard what he said on the phone.

Zachary later hung up and told Lexi, "Let's go to the gynecology department now to perform a check-up on your body. Are you okay with that, Ms. Loyle?"

Lexi's mind went blank just then.

She felt Zachary would undoubtedly blame her for having a baby and say she was trying to secure her position as his wife forever.

The irony was she had planned to get a surgery.

At that point, Lexi had no clue what to do. All her senses had shut down, save for the uneasy, tingly sensation she felt on her scalp.

Zachary first entered the elevator but noticed Lexi wasn't moving. So, he snapped, "Ms. Loyle?"

Lexi lied. She said she needed to use the washroom because her stomach was hurting. She did so, hoping to stall for time. Lexi placed a hand on her stomach, ran to the toilet, and thought about how to resolve this situation.

The dire circumstances left Lexi with no choice. She texted Yvonne. "Ms. Xenos, Zachary is accompanying me to the gynecologist for a body check-up now. We're planning to conceive a baby through IVF treatments."

Lexi sent that text before emotionlessly putting away her phone. She refused to believe Yvonne could remain unbothered by that text. She waited in the stall for about 15 minutes.

During that time, she received a call from Zachary, who rushed her.

Lexi clutched her stomach. Her breathing sounded weaker as she spoke. "I've been having stomach issues lately. Everything I eat won't stay in my stomach for long."

She pretended to awkwardly describe her "diarrhea" in a less jarring way.

"You'd better not be up to something, Lexi." Zachary frowned. His gaze sharpened.

Lexi figured it was time to head outside, so she washed her hands and left the washroom. Following that, she took the elevator to the gynecology department.

Zachary was already waiting outside for her. "Let's head in."

Yvonne didn't show up.

That left Lexi nervous but helpless. She gradually calmed her emotions and convinced herself everything would work out. If the truth about her baby had to be revealed now, then so be it.

They were about to open the door to the gynecology department when Zachary's phone rang.

"Slow down, Yvonne. What's happening? Okay, I'll be right over." Zachary snuck a grim glance at Lexi as he answered the phone. He froze when he noticed her still swollen cheek, but it didn't last long. He soon walked off without hesitation.

Lexi interpreted Zachary's grim look as him warning her not to pull any tricks.

Only after she exited the hospital and saw the entertainment news online did she learn Yvonne had encountered a psychotically obsessive fan.

The male fan had pushed Yvonne over and broken Yvonne's hand. It was no wonder Zachary went to her in such a hurry.

…

Once Lexi returned to the hotel, she encountered the man she had bumped into at the elevator last night.

He was also holding a coffee cup today.

Lexi could sense the man was staring at her swollen right cheek. It didn't seem like he would take his eyes off her anytime.

Although she felt flustered, she didn't avoid his stare. Instead, she maintained a stoic expression and spoke sarcastically. "I know I'm so pretty that people can't help but gawk at me."

Claude's lips curved up. As he sipped his coffee, his Adam's apple bobbed attractively. Eventually, he said, "You look very familiar."

Lexi's eyes remained on the climbing numbers on the elevator's digital display. "That's a tacky way to hit on someone."

"I've never needed to hit on anyone." Claude flashed a reticent smile. "I'm only stating the truth.

There was a laziness and silkiness to his voice.

Lexi looked ahead at the elevator's mirrored walls and took in Claude, who stood to her left. She didn't recall ever interacting with him, much less meeting him.

To her surprise, Claude suddenly approached her. His intimidating presence overwhelmed her so much that she took a few steps back.

"Can I help you?" she questioned with a stiff voice. At the same time, she met Claude's intense gaze.

Claude stared into her eyes as he removed the mask and revealed his dashing face.

Lexi held her breath. They were so close to each other that she could smell the faint pine scent from his body.

"Do you really not recognize me?" Claude asked.

"I don't."

Claude straightened his back and peered down at her. When the elevator door opened on the tenth floor, he stepped aside.

Lexi left right away. Doubt gnawed at her heart. She could have sworn she didn't know the man, but why did he seem to know her?

…

Lexi had just finished showering when someone rang the doorbell to her room.

It was the hotel's employee. He said, "A gentleman on the 12th floor instructed us to pass this facial cream to you, Ms. Loyle."

"Thank you." Lexi accepted the tube of cream but was even more perplexed by the situation. She didn't end up using the facial cream, of course. Claude was a stranger, after all.

That night, Lexi had a dream.

She dreamt of the night from two months ago.

The wild night left her all sweaty. Zachary held her waist and tried out several positions with her.

It left Lexi limp with barely any energy left. Not to mention, she was so drunk that she was in a daze.

When Lexi woke, she massaged her forehead. The dream she had turned out to be a tad frightening. The man she slept with two months ago was Zachary. Yet, for some reason, he got replaced by the man from the elevator in her dream.

Chapter 6

Lexi never expected that she would be implicated in the incident of Yvonne being assaulted by a fan. She was eating lunch when one of Zachary's bodyguards came to the restaurant and brought her to Royaltree Estate.

This property belonged to Zachary as well. However, their marital home was Flowerhill Estate, which was a gift from Martha. That was why she rarely came over to this particular property.

As she get into Royaltree Estate, she saw that Yvonne was there too. Instantly, an ominous feeling washed over her.

Half an hour later, Lexi was standing in the same spot while Zachary fed Yvonne meticulously and tenderly at the dining table.

Yvonne had broken her right arm, and she was not used to using her left hand to hold the cutlery. So, Zachary fed her.

"I'm full, Zach. I can't eat anymore." Yvonne leaned in to give him a quick peck on the cheek. "Ms. Loyle arrived a while ago."

Zachary handed Yvonne a napkin to wipe her mouth.

Then, he looked at Lexi, "Bring him in."

Following his command, a bodyguard brought in a bald middle-aged man. Lexi looked on, feeling puzzled.

Zachary asked coldly, "Ms. Loyle, do you know this man?"

Lexi glanced at the man and shook her head. "I don't."

"What about you?" He turned to the middle-aged man. "Do you know her?"

The middle-aged man shook his head vigorously, "No, I don't."

Zachary sneered. The bodyguard holding the man kicked the back of his knee. Lexi pursed her lips and watched as the scene unfolded.

"Ms. Loyle, I've decided not to interfere between you and Zachary anymore. Yet, you got this man to harm me. You're so wicked!" Yvonne accused angrily, glaring at Lexi.

Lexi looked up and stared back at her. "Harm you? I don't even know this man."

Yvonne looked disappointed. "Are you still going to deny it?"

"Deny what? I don't even know what's going on," Lexi replied calmly.

Zachary stared at her frostily and requested for a woman to be brought in.

As soon as she entered, Lexi recognized her. It was her classmate from college—Layla Zimmer.

Upon seeing the bodyguard bringing his daughter in, the middle-aged man suddenly cried out, "I'm sorry! I shouldn't have done such a thing! This has nothing to do with my daughter. I'm sorry! I just wanted to help Ms. Loyle."

Lexi frowned and asked, "Help me with what?"

Yvonne sighed helplessly. Her voice was tinged with anger. She said, "Ms. Loyle, you instructed this man to pretend to be my fan and molest me in public. You made me the subject of ridicule in the entertainment industry. I can't believe how cruel you are!"

"I never did such a thing." Lexi finally understood what was going on. She looked at Zachary and stated, "I didn't do it. I would never do something like this."

Zachary retorted emotionlessly, "I only believe in evidence."

His words made Lexi feel stifled. It was clear he didn't believe her. She straightened her back and challenged, "What evidence?"

As soon as she finished speaking, the bodyguard grabbed Layla's hair roughly and started to drag her out to beat her up.

"No! Dad, help me! Lexi, please save me!" Layla cried out while holding her scalp in pain.

"It was Ms. Loyle who put me up to it! It has nothing to do with my daughter," Owen Zimmer whimpered as he tried to stop them from hurting Layla.

In a steady tone, Lexi said, "Just because you claim I put you up to it doesn't mean it's true."

"Ms. Loyle, you transferred 200 thousand to my daughter previously. I was very grateful about that and agreed to do your bidding." Owen then apologized profusely, "I'm sorry, Ms. Loyle. I owe you one for this."

Lexi looked at the silent Layla, and then at Owen, who kept apologizing.

She said with a sneer, "You two owe me one indeed. Never did I imagine the fable of the Snake and the Farmer would resonate so strongly with me one day."

Lexi had never met Layla's father before, but his face would be etched in her mind after this. Some people could turn around and betray those who helped them before without conscience.

Half a year ago, Layla had been hospitalized and needed to undergo surgery. However, her family had no money, so they sought help on a crowdfunding platform and borrowed money from everyone they could reach out to.

Lexi came to know about it. Since they were roommates in college and were good friends, she lent Layla 200 thousand. She never expected that she would be famed by lending Layla that money.

Layla suddenly looked up and said, "Lexi, I'm very grateful for the money that you have lent me, but you shouldn't have asked my father to do something like this. I will repay your money."

"You can't just say whatever you please to slander me." Lexi turned around to look at Yvonne. "Ms. Xenos, I lent Layla 200 thousand for her treatment, but that doesn't mean I instructed them to do anything."

"Well..." Yvonne looked at Zachary and said hesitantly, "Zach, Ms. Loyle has a point. I just broke an arm. So, let's leave it at that."

Hearing this, Lexi felt a lump in her throat that nearly suffocated her.

Zachary poured Yvonne a cup of water. He had a stern look in his eyes as he said, "Take good care of your hand. I won't let anyone who harms you get away. I'll handle this."

Yvonne blushed and smiled at those words. Lexi, on the other hand, felt a chill run down her spine.

The bodyguards took Layla and Owen away as Zachary went to the balcony to make a call.

Yvonne approached Lexi and said in a lowered voice, "Ms. Loyle, you may have a marriage certificate, but does it hold any value? Besides, Zachary told me your marriage is purely contractual."

Lexi couldn't believe that Zachary had told Yvonne about their contractual marriage!

Her expression turned glacial. "Even if we're in a contractual marriage, the marriage certificate is real. As long as we're not divorced, you'll always be the homewrecker."

Yvonne shook her head helplessly. "Ms. Loyle, Zachary doesn't love you. Why hold on to him? You should let go."

"Make him divorce me, then," Lexi replied with a smile. She didn't have enough money to pay the compensation for breaching the contract.

Yvonne responded to her smile with an amused smirk in return. "Ms. Loyle, come over and visit me here. This is where I'm living now."

Zachary had even let his ex-girlfriend move into Royaltree Estate. The next moment, he came back in and asked Lexi to go to the study with him after finishing his call.

Yvonne watched Lexi go upstairs with a gleeful grin. She was thinking of something else. She wondered if Lexi would go mad if she found out that she had slept with a stranger.

At that thought, her grin turned into a wide smile.

…

The silence was stifling inside the study. Lexi clenched her hands into fists while feeling slightly nervous.

"I didn't instruct Mr. Zimmer to harm Ms. Xenos. I will investigate this and give her a satisfactory explanation," Lexi said.

Investigating the matter would be difficult. The other party had set her up by accusing her of something hard to disprove. No matter what, she was in trouble.

Lexi suspected that Yvonne had framed her. She was not likely to be a kind person.

Four years ago, Lexi had seen Yvonne crush a kitten to death with her high heels. Martha had witnessed it too. Perhaps that was why she was so strongly opposed to Zachary marrying Yvonne.

In the silent study, Zachary walked up to Lexi. As he neared her, she could feel the pressure mounting on her.

Finally, he said, "I will have someone investigate this matter."

This showed that he didn't believe her at all.

He then asked, "Where have you moved to?"

He only realized she had moved out of Flowerhill Estate after she had been gone for a few days.

"A hotel."

"Why did you move out?"

After a moment of silence, Lexi took a deep breath. "You have gotten back together with Yvonne. I don't feel like staying there."

Flowerhill Estate was their marital home and a gift from Martha. Staying there was torture for her, and she didn't want to put up with it.

Zachary stared at her with his deep-set eyes. "Do you think you have the right to talk about this?"

When they signed the contract two years ago, she lost the right to do as she pleased.

Lexi laughed in exasperation. "I just want to live somewhere else for a change. Are you telling me I can't do that?"

"If Grandma finds out about you moving out, you won't be able to handle the consequences," he said with a cold smile. "Don't try to be clever with me, Lexi." He tapped her head lightly with his cool fingers. "Don't play with fire."

Chapter 7

Lexi felt her stomach churn and couldn't help but vomit right onto Zachary, who was in front of her. Zachary's expression stiffened with disgust. He looked at the vomit all over himself and glared at her with widened eyes filled with rage.

Lexi covered her mouth in apology, though she felt a trace of satisfaction inside. "Sorry. I've been feeling unwell for the past few days."

Utterly disgusted, Zachary took off his soiled clothes and threw them into the laundry basket. His lean but muscular physique was exposed.

Before he left the study, he warned Lexi coldly, "Move back to Flowerhill Estate. If Grandma finds out you've moved out, I won't let you off."

Lexi couldn't move back to Flowerhill Estate now. She had something very important to do. She had to find a safe place to get an surgery. Otherwise, the fear of Zachary finding out about the truth would loom over her constantly.

Once Lexi made up her mind, she acted swiftly. She booked a flight to a small city. She caught a plane that took her there that very night. Next, she took a taxi to a small town and booked a room at a motel near Adstrum Hospital.

At dawn, she arrived at the hospital to see a doctor at the gynecology clinic as soon as the doctors started their shifts. Feeling a bit self-conscious, she requested to see a female doctor.

The nurse responded impatiently, "If everyone made such requests, how would we manage? Only Dr. Quall has a slot available. Do you want it or not?"

Lexi flinched at the nurse's irritable tone. She hesitated for a second and replied meekly, "Yes."

She then made her way to the clinic on the first floor. When there were two numbers left before it was her turn, there came a phone call from Quinton.

"Ms. Loyle, why didn't you come to work again?" he asked.

"I've submitted my resignation letter. I'm on annual leave now," Lexi replied.

She then added, "I'm traveling now, Mr. Shaw. I'll be back in a week to hand over my work. Please handle things in my absence."

She hung up decisively.

Quinton was left speechless. He relayed Lexi's message to the busy Zachary. "Boss, Ms. Loyle is traveling. She said she will return in a week to hand over her duties."

Zachary frowned and sipped his coffee. He found the taste unsatisfactory. "Who made today's coffee? Go make me another."

Quinton took the coffee away and instructed the assistant secretary to go and brew Zachary a fresh cup. It took four attempts before their boss reluctantly accepted the coffee presented.

Seeing this, Quinton surmised that Zachary must have gotten accustomed to the coffee Lexi made.

"Book a table at the Cadorian restaurant for tonight. I have a date with Yvonne. Order a bouquet of roses as well."

Zachary's request surprised Quinton, who started to doubt his initial guess. Could it be that Zachary's true love was still his ex-girlfriend, after all?

Quinton collected his thoughts and replied, "Sure. I'll see to it."

Before he left, he turned to Zachary and said, "Zach, Lexi has always done her job well. You... Don't regret this in the future."

He and Zachary were college mates. Right now, he was speaking to Zachary as a friend.

Zachary looked up, and his eyes were cold. "Why would I regret it? I've always loved Yvonne."

Why would anyone think he would regret it? Zachary sneered and didn't think much of it.

...

Lexi was unaware of the conversation that had taken place between Quinton and Zachary.

The nurse opened the door and called out, "Ms. Loyle."

Lexi nodded and entered. As she walked in, she overheard another nurse saying coquettishly, "You're so mean, Dr. Quall."

The nurse's voice was overly sweet and coy. It made Lexi cringe. She glanced at the doctor, who was enjoying this attention, and realized that it was the man she'd encountered in the elevator. It didn't occur to her that he could be a doctor when she saw him.

The tall man with broad shoulders was standing at the sink and washing his hands meticulously. He was wearing a white coat. With his sleeves rolled up to his elbows, his strong arms were exposed, revealing the tattoo of a black mamba coiled around a rose.

Lexi didn't know what to make of this. This was her first time seeing a doctor with such scary tattoos on his arms.

Claude, who was wearing a surgical mask, noticed Lexi and raised an eyebrow. He wondered why she had come to such a remote town to seek treatment.

He sat down and dried his hands leisurely. Then, he asked in a laid-back tone, "What's wrong?"

After waiting for some time, he didn't hear any answer from Lexi.

Claude asked again, "Is your throat so sore that you can't speak?"

Doing her best to maintain her composure, Lexi whispered, "I'm here… to get a surgery."

Claude fell silent. Lexi blinked at him and stayed quiet too.

He had not expected this.

"Have you given birth before?"

"No. This is my first time."

"When was your last period?"

"I think it was around the end of April."

After inquiring about her medical history, Claude said, "Let's do an ultrasound."

Lexi nodded. She had come this far, so she didn't want to waste her time and effort.

She followed the nurse and walked to the back of the curtain. After taking off her shoes and lying on the hospital bed, she pulled her shirt up to reveal her body.

With gloved hands, Claude applied some gel to her. As she took in rasped, nervous breaths, her belly moved up and down rapidly too.

"Relax," Claude reassured her.

When he noticed her shaky fingers, Claude raised an eyebrow. "The procedure can be done tomorrow afternoon."

Lexi wiped the gel off her stomach with some tissues. "Okay."

Claude noticed that her hands were trembling even more now. For once, he decided to be kind and advised, "You should keep it."

"The father is abusive. It would be cruel for me to keep the child," Lexi replied indifferently while tidying her clothes.

"That's unfortunate."

Lexi agreed, "Yes, it's very unfortunate."

Claude stepped out from behind the curtains.

As she looked at his broad shoulders, Lexi recalled the dream she had a few nights ago. She pondered that maybe she had it in her to become a promiscuous woman.

While keying Lexi's information into the computer, Claude explained the precautions for surgery in detail. Lexi listened to him attentively.

When Claude saw her name, he paused for a moment. Finally, he knew her name.

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