SUPPORTING ROLE

MINUTES LATER...

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Just like Tyler said, his driver picked me up and brought me to the Grand Hotel.

Wearing the luxurious red gown he gave me and flawless makeup, I confidently entered the venue.

Some people couldn't help but glance in my direction because of my alluring outfit.

Even I wasn't comfortable in it.

"Can I just wear a jacket instead?" I asked Tyler's secretary, but he shook his head.

"Ma'am, you look perfect already. You're really stunning," he flattered me though.

As I scanned the room, I noticed the theme of the event.

Why didn't he tell me this was a corporate event introducing their company's most ambitious project:

"NEUROTECH: The Future of Robotic Living."

All the top names in the AI and robotics industry were there. The CEOs, investors, foreign engineers, even the media. With all the lights and expensive fixtures in the hotel ballroom. I'm amazed but out of place and wanted to go home already.

But of course, this was Boss Tyler's night, so I had to support him.

He wore a custom-made black suit that fit like it was made from his skin. No other man in the room could compare to his presence and the power he exuded.

A little later, the product presentation began. He stood on stage, smiling. A version of Tyler I didn't know. Professional. Charismatic. Genius.

He presented the prototype AI that could read its owner's emotions and adjust its behavior accordingly, smart appliances with empathy.

"Imagine a world where your home understands your silence," he said.

"Where technology doesn't just follow, but anticipates."

Applause echoed. People gathered around to greet and praise him. Everyone there seemed hungry for his attention.

And me? I was left in a corner, silently watching him.

Suddenly, I turned as I noticed a woman nearby, also cheering for him. She looked familiar.

It was Christine.

Wow. So she's part of this event too.

Since the program was almost done, I decided to step outside for some air by the pool area.

It was peaceful. The hotel lights in the distance made for a beautiful view.

While I was enjoying the silence and the breeze, a woman approached me.

"Is that how you support your husband?" she asked.

I turned around.

"Christine? Why? It's not like he needs me in there," I replied with a chuckle.

I could see the irritation on her face.

"Come on! You're his wife, you should be with him while he greets all those important guests!"

"Tss. Are you that obsessed? Why don't you do it instead?" I answered, making her step back.

Tears suddenly welled in her eyes.

"Because I wasn't the one he forced into this. But even so, I still want to support him. Please… do it for me," she said, looking down.

I closed my eyes and sighed.

Love really does strange things. Hays...

I reached into my bag and handed her a tissue.

"Sorry," I said.

"Ma'am, sorry to interrupt, but Mr. Shrewdly wanted to see you," said one of Tyler's staff, suddenly appearing.

I looked at Christine and sighed.

"Since I helped you, you owe me. So to make things fair… can I ask you a favor?" I said casually. She looked at me, curious.

"Honestly, I've been feeling sick for a while. I think I have diarrhea. Could you go to Tyler for me? Bring this to him. He needs it," I said, handing her something.

She was shocked.

"B-but… you're the—"

"What? You want me to poop in front of all the guests?" I said with a straight face. She just smiled.

I could see the mixed expression on her face, the grin in her eyes, the excitement of being near Tyler.

Ugh. Why is she so obsessed with that man?

Christine hurried off.

"Ma'am, are you sure?" Tyler's staff asked me. I nodded.

"Poor thing. They might end up as the Romeo and Juliet of the Philippines if they actually end up apart," I joked, which made him laugh too.

"Uh… right. Would you like me to escort you home, ma'am?"

"No need. I want to take a walk first."

The staff nodded and left, and I exited the event shortly after.