Chapter 31
Beyond the Divorce
An Unexpected Gain Finally, there was a breakthrough in Johnsonâs whereabouts. Ivannaâs report shocked me. Johnson frequented Amethyst Apartments, a newly developed upscale apartment community.
This revelation reminded me of that key that never seemed to match anything. I wondered if the key belonged to that house but found it hard to accept.
I had been with Matthew and endured countless hardships for many years. We had repeated discussions on finding a nurturing environment for Ava to grow up in. We even talked about getting a bigger apartment in a good school district.
Yet, he always brushed it off and delayed his decision. However, I discovered he had bought a unit in Amethyst Apartments. Matthewâs actions shattered my perception of a manâs behavior after infidelity.
He was either utterly clueless or just an animal.
After confirming the location, I dared not act recklessly. Instead, Ivanna arranged for someone to observe discreetly. Once she confirmed the house was empty, she called and urged me to come over.
I came up with an excuse and hurried to Jade Estates. Ivanna led me to that penthouse, a charming and cleverly designed unit. When I saw it, my legs turned into jelly. I stood before the door for what felt like an eternity. Meanwhile, Ivanna cursed at Matthew.
I pulled out the key, my palm sweating. I shakily inserted the key into the lock, and the door swung open. I stood at the entrance in a daze. I wouldnât have moved if Ivanna didnât pull me. We were in my dream unit. It was a place that had cost me all my savings, but it wasnât for me.
âIt seems this is where that money went. How foolish was I to let this happen right under my nose? He did. something this big, and I had no idea! I said, my voice filled with bitterness.
âDonât get too worked up. Thereâs a saying, isnât there? You should always beware of the wolf in sheepâs clothing. Now isnât the time to lose your cool. We need to figure out how to get it back, at the very least, reclaim the money,â Ivanna said, exasperated.
She looked around and assessed the situation, âIt looks like theyâve almost completed the renovation.
The space isnât that big, probably around 300 square meters. Man, this guy spared no expense.
âAll for a woman. He probably didnât even do this much for his mother. Ugh! Chlo, donât get too upset.
Heâll get whatâs coming.â
I gazed at the lavishly decorated house, clenched my fist, and sald through gritted teeth, âI want the house, the money, everything!â
Ivanna was shocked, then looked at me with determination and clapped. âExactly, we want the house and the money back! Il arrange for a search to find out who owns this property. Maybe we can find some trace of that woman!â
I glanced at the house again, then turned and quickly left. After discussing the next steps with Ivanna and getting details about Johnsonâs recent visits to the house, I knew I had to have a serious talk with him.
Back home, Ivanna handed me a set of makeup products. I looked at her, puzzled. She snorted and said,â If weâre putting on a show, we need the full package. We canât let that scumbag notice anything.
Otherwise, whatâs the point?!â
It dawned on me, and I hugged Ivanna. âThank goodness I have you!â
âOh, spare me. Werenât you suspecting me not long ago? Do you think I would ever get involved with that jerk? Go stand up for yourself!â Ivanna patted my back encouragingly.
I nodded and turned away.
Upon arriving home, Matthew looked at the items in my hand and commented, âYou went shopping for these? Are you turning into those cliche women who buy these things?â
âOf course! Iâm a woman, after all. I canât let a mistress use my money,â I teased deliberately, âDoes it hurt you for me to spend a little? If Iâm not spending it, who are you saving up for? Donât tell me you have a secret lover.â
He smiled fawningly, saying, âNonsense! Iâll never feel bad when my wife spends. When have I ever felt that way?â
I cursed at him internally when I heard that. I used to be frugal with my money, but I wonât hold back from now on.