Chapter 45: Chapter 45



Adrian’s features, striking and cold, seemed almost too perfectly crafted to appeal to Joelle’s sensibilities. Under the soft illumination of the plaza lights, his skin took on a gentle glow, momentarily softening his harsh demeanor. For a brief moment, Joelle let herself imagine they were merely a couple embroiled in a trivial argument. Yet, that illusion shattered the second Adrian spoke.

“I’m just reminding you to mind your behavior. Don’t mar your reputation before the divorce. It would be quite embarrassing for me.” Joelle’s laugh, tinged with anger, broke through the tense air. “What could possibly embarrass you? When you moved Rebecca into our house, did you think about how that embarrassed me?”

Adrian’s sneer deepened. “You drugged me and forced this marriage upon us. Shouldn’t you be the one embarrassed? You chose this path, Joelle.” “Yes, I chose it,” Joelle responded, her voice steady and unafraid. “I made this choice, and now I regret it. I wish I’d never met you.”

Adrian’s frown deepened, unable to deny their twisted past, yet surprised by her outright condemnation. How had he wronged her? He had given her everything—a home, a car, financial security—everything except love. She lived far more comfortably than she ever did. “Do you even understand what you’re saying?” Adrian moved closer, his presence more imposing by the second, overpowering Joelle’s defiant stance. “Without me, you and your brother would be living on the streets.”

“In your eyes, does money mean everything?” Joelle held Adrian’s gaze firmly, her resolve clear. “Let me make myself clear: I’d rather sleep on the streets than continue to suffocate in that house!” “That’s your decision,” Adrian replied through gritted teeth, his anger palpable. “I’ll grant your wish then.”

Nearby, Michael wiped the sweat from his forehead. Something about Joelle seemed different today, though he couldn’t quite put his finger on it. She had always been the compliant one, never challenging Adrian, regardless of his actions. Yet today, she was showing a side of her that was fierce and assertive, slowly revealing her true temperament to Adrian. Despite this, Michael remained skeptical about the likelihood of a divorce. Irene, who adored Joelle, would surely object.

He mused that perhaps this confrontation was merely a display of their twisted form of affection. Rubbing his stomach, Michael interrupted, “Are you two done? Let’s go grab something to eat. I’m starving.” “You guys go ahead,” Joelle declined, her voice firm. “I lose my appetite around certain people, and my friend is returning to the hotel. I’m leaving.”

As Joelle departed, Michael stood there in disbelief, pondering her words. “Did she really say she lost her appetite because of someone? Was she referring to you, Adrian?” Adrian’s eyes followed the direction Joelle had left in, his expression unreadable. The once clingy, docile girl had become defiant and outspoken. Michael clicked his tongue, a mix of concern and curiosity in his tone. “What happened, Adrian? She used to be so quiet around you.”

Michael’s observation struck a chord, and Adrian responded with a cold, dismissive smile. Meanwhile, Joelle returned to the hotel. After a refreshing shower, she realized Katherine hadn’t returned yet. Concerned, she picked up her phone to call her. “When are you coming back?” “Two more hours! I have to meet him in person!” Joelle’s worry deepened. “Security hasn’t been great around here lately. If you can’t meet this big shot, just come back early. There are plenty of others you can collaborate with.”

“No,” Katherine replied resolutely. “I need to show him my sincerity. Don’t worry, my family has arranged for protection. I’ll be fine.” Katherine was here primarily to meet a high-profile businessman, a figure shrouded in mystery whose financial maneuvers had reportedly amassed a fortune rivaling that of nations. His rapid wealth accumulation and enigmatic status had fueled endless speculation about the scale of his assets. While Joelle remained indifferent to such business dealings, Katherine was determined to make this connection, believing even a brief meeting could significantly elevate her financial standing.

Accepting her friend’s resolve, Joelle sighed. “Alright, I wish you all the best.” After ending the call, Joelle headed to the fridge, retrieved some ice, and wrapped it in a towel to make a cold compress for her wrist. She had overstrained it earlier while playing the violin, and now her wrist twitched intermittently. The ice brought a small measure of relief.

Despite the discomfort, Joelle felt content. The melodies she played allowed her to channel her emotions through the music, creating a resonance she hoped would touch everyone who listened. A knock at the door interrupted her thoughts. Assuming it was Katherine, Joelle, still clad in her bathrobe, went to answer it. To her surprise, it was Adrian standing there, his gaze sweeping over her. She instinctively tightened her grip on her robe. “What are you doing here?”

Adrian’s lips twitched into a slight, enigmatic smile. “Dressed like this? Seems like you were expecting me.” “What do you mean? Ah!” Joelle’s words were cut short as Adrian suddenly hoisted her over his shoulder and, with a swift kick, closed the door behind them.

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