Rachel had no interest in playing games with Samantha. Without another word, she pushed open the office door.

But Samantha wasn’t done.

“Oh, by the way,” she added, just a little louder than before. “Are you okay after last night? I heard Howard drugged you. William told me. You know how the Lewis family values reputation. I mean, we believe you, of course, but still, you should be careful. Staying pure is very important for a woman.”

Her voice rose just enough to make sure everyone nearby could hear.

Rachel’s hand tightened on the door handle, making the veins on the back of her hand stand out. Her brow furrowed.

William had told Samantha about the drugging? He hadn’t even tried to protect Rachel’s dignity? Did he ever stop to think what would happen if people just believed whatever they heard?

Like now—Samantha was already spreading rumors. How did he think the whole office would look at Rachel after that?

And what if someone with bad intentions leaked it to the media? The headlines would write themselves: Mrs. Lewis drugged, suspected assault, reputation in ruins.

She wouldn’t be able to explain herself, no matter how many times she tried. No one would listen. The damage would be done. Was her name—her dignity—just gossip fodder to keep Samantha entertained?

Around her, the whispers were already starting.

“Wait, Ms. Lloyd got drugged? Was it that serious?”

“Wow. I heard that stuff can be intense. Once it kicks in, even God can’t save you. Was she really…”

“Yeah, and what’s Samantha’s relationship with Mr. Lewis? How did she even know about this? That seems a little private.”

“You didn’t hear? I heard Samantha and Mr. Lewis went to college together. She was his first love.”

“What?! That explains everything! I mean, Samantha just appeared out of nowhere and got placed here. Even Ms. Lloyd had to rely on her own strength to secure her position.”

Just then, Cecilia walked over holding a folder.

She gave Rachel a small nod. “Ms. Lloyd, Mr. Lewis would like to see you in his office.”

Rachel let go of the door handle and didn’t even glance at Samantha. She simply turned and walked toward William’s office.

Samantha’s smile faltered for just a second as her expression darkened.

Rachel pushed open William’s office door. He had just finished signing the last contract and was setting the papers aside when she walked in.

He stood up and met her halfway. “I’m really sorry about last night. The doctor said Samantha’s leg injury was more serious than expected. She doesn’t have any family or friends here, so I stayed with her at the hospital.”

“So, you stayed the night to take care of her, helped her finish the project data, and while you were at it, you told her I was drugged by Howard?” Rachel replied, her voice calm but cold.

William’s brows lifted slightly. He stepped closer and gently rested his hands on her shoulders, as if trying to calm her.

“Don’t worry, she won’t tell anyone. And about the project data, I was just guiding her a little. She really wanted to get it done, even in that condition. She passed it all in one go, so that’s less work for you.”

Chapter 17 +25 BONUS

Rachel almost laughed.

Every word out of his mouth sounded like he was doing her a favor.

She smirked and coldly quipped, “You really trust Samantha, don’t you, Mr. Lewis?”

William’s jaw tensed. “Rachel, I’m just trying to be fair.”

“And that’s why you shared something so personal and serious with her. Now, everyone out there knows I was drugged.”

This wasn’t about being angry anymore.

Rachel had stopped expecting anything from William a long time ago. She just wished he wouldn’t make it so obvious. At least let her keep pretending for a little while longer.

The deadline hadn’t arrived yet.

William ran a tired hand through his hair and rubbed at his brow. “Rachel…”

Before he could finish, another voice cut in: “Rachel, this isn’t his fault. It was me. I spoke too loudly and got overheard. If you’re angry, be angry at me. Yell at me. Just… don’t blame him, okay?”