Chapter 5

The notification originated from a contact labeled "Little Fool Pig" in the phone. The image displayed Grace in a hospital emergency department, appearing disheveled yet still managing a smile and peace sign for the camera. Her message read: [No rush getting here, drive carefully. I'll be waiting for you.]

At that moment, it dawned on me. I couldn't help but chuckle at my own expense. So that's why Daniel left in such a hurry. I arranged for a local delivery service to send his phone to his workplace. Then, I headed straight to my job.

Since completing my education, I'd been employed at the McLaughlin Family enterprise. My father, intent on building my character, had me start from the very bottom as an entry-level worker. Years of dedication and proving my worth had paid off—I now held the position of department manager, a role I'd earned through my own merit. Upon arriving at the office, my assistant approached me with a file, saying, "Good morning, ma'am. This document requires your approval. All procedures are complete; we just need your signature for finalization."

I accepted the file and quickly reviewed its contents—it detailed a partnership with the Rollins Group. Oddly, I couldn't recall ever hearing about this venture.

"Is everything okay, ma'am? Should we proceed?" my assistant inquired, noticing my uncertainty.

"No!" I responded abruptly, startling her. She quickly regained her composure before adding hesitantly, "Didn't you mention that unless it's a crucial collaboration, the Rollins Group should always be our first choice?"

I had indeed given such directions—back when I was still optimistic about my future with Daniel. At the time, I believed our families would eventually merge, and the profit distribution between our companies seemed inconsequential. I trusted him so completely that I didn't bother examining projects involving the Rollins Group closely. "We'll pass on this one. But from now on, we'll ensure we select the best option. The company's interests are paramount," I stated as I signed the document.

The workday flew by, and by the end, I was famished. I had intended to try the newly opened restaurant in town. However, upon arrival, I found it bustling with patrons. Just as I was about to leave, I heard a familiar voice calling out to me.

"Ms. McLaughlin, over here!"

I turned to see Grace and Daniel seated at a table, smiling up at me. "What a pleasant surprise. Here for their special menu too?" Grace leaned forward, her excitement evident.

Daniel momentarily froze upon seeing me but quickly composed himself. "I was just about to call and invite you to join us for dinner. What a coincidence that you came here too. It's packed, so why don't you sit with us," he suggested, signaling the waiter for an extra place setting. Having eaten little at lunch, my stomach was now growling. I figured I might as well stay and dine with them.

"Ms. McLaughlin, I recall you enjoy spicy food," Grace chimed in. "Let me order something suitable for you."

I glanced at the table—everything was mild and light, not at all what Daniel and I typically preferred. We both had a penchant for spicy cuisine. He once told me that dishes without heat were like lifeless meals. Without spice, it was as if the food lacked soul. Naturally, Daniel didn't react, as the fresh spread lay before him.

"Hold on a second. I think we both know who's going to eat the spicy dish," Daniel said with a playful smirk. He gave Grace a disapproving look. "Grace... didn't you hear the doctor's advice? You need to avoid spicy food and stick to milder options."

Grace playfully rolled her eyes. "Fine, fine, Mr. Worrywart. I won't order it, okay? Satisfied now?"

Observing their banter, my already wounded heart remained unmoved. It had grown numb to it all.

He sighed and shook his head. "You two go ahead, I need to make a quick phone call."

The moment Daniel walked away, Grace's smile vanished, replaced by a challenging glare.

"So, Lenore, right? I must say, I'm impressed," she said, her tone dripping with disdain, "You're aware that Daniel just proposed to me, yet here you are, still hanging onto him. You certainly have some nerve."

I detected the contempt in her words but remained unfazed. Meeting her gaze, I replied, "Is taking someone else's partner something to boast about? Do you think it's admirable to flaunt it in public?"

"You—" She began, her mouth agape in surprise, but before she could finish, a dense plume of smoke suddenly billowed from the kitchen.