Chapter 107
Chapter 107
Jackson’s hand froze mid–motion as he yanked at his tic, his stiff posture betraying his unease.
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He stole a quick glance at Bailee, his eyes sharp and unsettled. But within seconds, he smoothed his expression into one of feigned surprise.
Jackson asked, “Something like that happened? Oh, those receptionists are all new. They probably don’t know you yet. I’ll have someone remind them who you are tomorrow. Imagine not recognizing my wife. How clueless can they be p>
As he spoke, he leaned closer to Bailee and set a hand on her shoulder. The move was calculated, his words a blend of flattery and reassurance.
Jackson said, “They’re just young girls who barely started working. They don’t know any better. Honey, you’ve always been the most understanding and open–hearted one. Don’t let them get to you p>
Bailee almost laughed at the absurdity, but the bitterness inside weighed heavily, burning like bile.
Watching Jackson put on this false display, she let out a humorless smile.
Bailee thought, ‘I’m his wife, and in my own company’s office, I get treated like that. Instead of standing by me, he tells me not to take it to heart. Has he forgotten who his family really is?
And now he sounds exactly like Ruby. No wonder the two of them fit so well together. But when did it start between them? How long has this been going on p>
At those thoughts, Bailee’s hand, hanging at her side, curled into a fist. Her nails dug deep into her palm, the sting helping her hold onto composure.
She wanted nothing more than to strike Jackson and demand how he dared treat her this way. But she drew in a sharp breath and forced her anger down.
Bailee shifted slightly, putting a little space between them. Ever since discovering his betrayal, she had found him repulsive, unwilling to bear even the smallest touch.
She walked slowly to the table, picked up the cup she had rinsed in toilet water and spit in earlier, and filled it to the brim without changing her expression. Then, she handed it to Jackson.
Bailee’s voice was calm and cool as she said, “Do I really seem that petty? Why would I take offense at a few young receptionists? It’s just p>
“What is it?” Jackson, oblivious to her change in demeanor, took the cup and downed a large swallow.
Bailee’s eyes lingered on the movement of his throat as he swallowed, a flicker of satisfaction and mockery flashing through her gaze. “Nothing much. Just wondering why you changed to a female secretary without telling me. Didn’t you promise before that you wouldn’t hire one p>
As she spoke, her eyes stayed fixed on Jackson, watching closely for how he would try to spin another excuse. Jackson’s expression flickered, then he gave a faint smile. The smile looked deliberate, almost careless.
18:53 Wed, Oct 15
Chapter 107
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He said, “Oh, that. Not long ago, Ethan left for another opportunity. So, HR assigned me someone new, who Official source is.net
was Ruby
“She’s capable, reliable, and hardworking. Most importantly, she’s older than you, so there’s no room for misunderstanding. To me, she’s no different from a male secretary, so I kept her on.
What, you scared someone her age could actually steal me? Seriously, are you jealous of a woman like that? Come on, we’re basically an old married couple p>
When Bailee stayed silent, Jackson suddenly laughed. “If I ever cheated, it wouldn’t be with someone like Ruby. I’d go for a younger girl. If you truly think otherwise, I’ll have HR dismiss her tomorrow p>
Bailee stared at him, his false sincerity looming larger and larger in her eyes. She had to admit his acting was flawless.
With this kind of calm, open performance, the woman she used to be would have believed she was overthinking, making trouble out of nothing. She would have trusted that nothing had happened between Jackson and Ruby and dropped the matter.
But today, Bailee had seen with her own eyes how shamelessly he and Ruby tangled in the office. So, how could she possibly let it go?
Bailee’s lips curved into a faint smile, her tone carrying a hint of imperious playfulness as she replied, “Fine. Fire her tomorrow then.
You were the one who swore off hiring a female secretary. Keeping her on would only make you look like a hypocrite who breaks his own word. I can’t let her tarnish your reputation p>
As Bailee spoke, her face held a smile, and her voice remained light.
She thought, ‘If Jackson can lie without blinking, then so can I. Let’s see how he tries to talk his way out of this
one.
Bailee’s gaze locked firmly on Jackson, thinking, Jackson, I’m giving you one last chance. If you send Ruby away, for the sake of the children, I’ll make sure you keep some dignity when we part.
‘But if you stay blind to the truth… then don’t blame me for showing no mercy p>
Jackson’s smile froze, the faintest crease forming between his brows. He had the nagging sense that something about Bailee felt different today.
In the past, though she could be spoiled and headstrong, she never went too far. Her attention usually revolved around shopping or beauty, never the company.
Even when Bailee came across something she disliked, it only took a few soothing words from Jackson to steer her away. She would let it go quickly, either distracted or willing to accept the excuse he offered.
But today, she had gone so far as to show up at the company on a whim, and now she was digging in her heels
over his secretary.
Jackson quickly adjusted his expression, adopting a look of touched sincerity as he gazed at her.
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Chapter 107
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He said. “Honey, you really do think of me in every way. But Ruby is a single mother with a daughter to
support.
“She finally found a steady job. If she loses it, how will they survive? As long as you trust me, that’s enough. She’s only a secretary, not worth stirring up trouble over p>
Jackson’s tone carried a mix of pleading and helplessness, yet beneath it lay a trace of impatience he himself failed to notice.
When his words faded, the room sank into a tense silence, broken only by the occasional rush of wind from outside.
Bailee’s heart felt encased in ice, colder with every passing second. Looking at Jackson’s insincere face filled her with nothing but disgust.
She thought, ‘I know now he’s changed completely. No, this is who he really was all along. He just stopped pretending.
Before Bailee could respond, Jackson patted her shoulder with a detached air and abruptly raised his voice. “ That’s enough. It’s late. Go back upstairs and get some rest p>
“These are company matters. You shouldn’t get involved. I still have overtime tonight, so I’ll sleep in the study,” he added, his tone dismissive and laced with irritation.
It had been years since Jackson last tried to coax Bailee, and now even the effort left him weary and resentful.
Bailee watched the slow retreat of his figure up the stairs, a sneer tugging at her lips.
She pondered, ‘So it’s true. Now that he has the company firmly in his hands, he doesn’t even bother to put on an act. Two empty lines of sweet talk, and already he’s showing nothing but impatience.
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