Chapter 115

The instant Hayden sensed her touch, he recoiled his hand as if stung. The gloom in his eyes deepened. "The Parker Group isn't the right place for you," he said coldly. Joanna's outstretched hand felt empty, awkwardly suspended.

She stared at him in disbelief. "Hayden, why do you seem so distant? What's happening? Is it because…" A woman's intuition never lies; she sensed his attitude had changed significantly.

Hayden hesitated, but finally met her gaze. "Back then, you said you were traveling abroad, ran out of money, and found a part-time job—that's how you met me. Was that the truth?" he asked, each word precise and impactful. Joanna froze, panic rising.

What on earth does he mean? she thought. He's never doubted me before. Has he found out something?

Joanna bit her lip, her panic evident. "Of course it's the truth. Why—"

She abruptly changed the subject. "Hayden, I just don't want to leave you…"

"How were you taking care of me then?" Hayden pressed, his tone colder. His questions revealed a complete lack of trust.

Joanna clenched her hand, stammering, "Y-you were unconscious, and I stayed by your side…"

"What exactly did you do?" Hayden urged. "Changed the bandage? Cleaned the wound?"

"Yes! I helped change your bandages," Joanna grasped at.

In reality, she had only been with him for a few hours before he woke, and hadn't even seen his wound. She had no choice but to lie. The instant she spoke, Hayden knew.

The frigid aura around him intensified. "You may leave now," he said, flashing a cold smile.

Joanna was stunned. "Hayden, I—" He cut her off. "This is the office." He pressed the intercom to call Richard.

Richard, unaware of what transpired, sensed Hayden's seething anger. He couldn't understand why Joanna had upset him. "Ms. Charlotte, this way, please."

Joanna knew Hayden was growing impatient. She realized that further pestering him would only worsen things. She decided to leave and talk to her mother later.

Taking a deep breath, she forced a smile. "Well, Hayden, I won't bother you anymore. You get back to work…"

She followed Richard out, maintaining her dignity. Hayden's sharp eyes watched her leave.

He recalled Yosef mentioning Sophia's interest in his and Yvonne's affairs. He suspected this mother-daughter pair had orchestrated everything. If they dared to plot against him, they would face the consequences. A menacing light glinted in his eyes.

Chapter 115

That morning, I completed some store follow-up tasks and invited Dylan to lunch. Initially, I offered him his choice of restaurant, but he insisted on the company cafeteria.

He seemed like a recent graduate eager to enter the workforce. I sighed, feeling genuine apology. "This whole thing is our company's fault, and treating you to the cafeteria feels insincere."

"I think it's great," Dylan said happily, holding his tray. His smile was as bright and warming as the morning sun.

Each time I saw him, I was reminded of my former self. "Please, take a seat," I said, leading him to a window seat. Many coworkers greeted me warmly.

"Hello, Mrs. Parker. Having lunch in the cafeteria?" someone said. I felt awkward initially, but it was only temporary.

Dylan wasn't focused on the food; he watched my coworkers interact with me. "Yvonne, they all seem to respect you a lot."

"It's for show," I chuckled. Seeing his earnest look, I didn't want to disillusion him, but feared he'd be hurt later. "I'm the CEO's wife. They have to be polite. It's a facade."

"I see…" Dylan nodded, showing understanding. He wasn't familiar with social dynamics; he just wanted me to be well.

I didn't probe his thoughts, simply saying, "I'm really sorry about your uncle."

"It's okay," Dylan smiled. "He isn't young anymore. His health isn't as good. Our family wants him to rest. My dad even mentioned a vacation!"

"That's good," I sighed, taking a bite of my food. Dylan spoke hesitantly, "Yvonne…"

I waited, prompting, "Hmm?" After a long pause, he asked, "I… I heard you're divorcing Mr. Parker!"

He'd heard rumors and wasn't sure if they were true. But if I was divorcing, he was determined to care for me.

My hand froze. Even Dylan had heard; Elysiumville must know.

"Yeah," I nodded, not denying it. "Is it because of Joanna?" Dylan asked anxiously. His worry made the words slip out.

"If it's difficult to answer, you don't have to. I was just asking casually," he said carefully. I felt pity for him.

Just then, a tray was placed at our table. Hayden sat beside me, his movements fluid.