Chapter 201

Debra’s indifference mirrored Juan’s callousness. They were two sides of the same coin. She used him as readily as he used others.

Juan cast a frosty glance at Shelia, his voice dropping to a low growl. “I’m warning you, Shelia. If you dare employ any underhanded tactics to harm Debra, I won’t stand idly by.”

Shelia blanched and reached for his hand. “Debra doesn’t spare you a thought. She doesn’t care for you at all. But I truly love you. Remember the joy we shared that night?”

“Enough!” Juan snapped, shaking off her hand. His eyes flashed with dark intensity. “Never mention that night again. If you value your position at Tyson Enterprises, cease testing my patience. Otherwise, I’ll ensure Arcane Academy kicks you out.”

Shelia froze, knowing Juan’s threats held weight. His actions always exceeded his words.

Juan turned and strode away, leaving Shelia rooted to the spot, a dejected figure in his wake. Joe glanced at her and said, “Miss Miles, consider yourself fortunate that Mr. Nichols hasn’t exposed your deceit. Know your place and abandon these fantasies of becoming Mrs. Nichols.” He then followed Juan from the room.

Shelia’s hands clenched into fists. “You think you can dismiss me so easily? I won’t let you have your way. The title of Mrs. Nichols is mine, and mine alone.”

Across town, in her office, Debra gently pushed Michael’s hand away. “Everyone’s left for the day.”

Michael offered a warm smile. “Who said I was merely helping you? I was genuinely concerned you might be having a fever.”

Debra poured herself a steaming cup of tea. Michael continued, “But you seem as full of life as ever, so I suppose you’re fine.”

Setting the teapot down, Debra asked, “Is your work here nearly complete?”

“I’ll be wrapping up tomorrow,” Michael confirmed, raising an eyebrow. “Miss me already?”

She scoffed. “Don’t flatter yourself. I’m just concerned that once you’re gone, things might become more challenging for me.”

Lately, the female employees had been treating her with open hostility, whispering rumors that she was a power-hungry opportunist. Some even spread lies about her past, claiming she’d taken questionable jobs to make ends meet during her school days.

She knew Shelia was the puppet master, but she couldn’t be bothered with such petty games. The McKinney Group’s issues were more pressing, and she refused to waste her energy on trivial matters.

Michael’s brow furrowed. “Have they started giving you trouble?”

“Not yet,” Debra replied, “but I suspect they will once you’re gone.” The female employees had been cautious while Michael was present, but Debra feared his departure would embolden them.

Michael fell silent, considering the situation. Debra reached out, giving his shoulder a reassuring pat. “I’ll face whatever comes my way. I will be okay.”

Michael chuckled, covering her hand with his own. “As your loyal partner, I won’t let anyone bully you.”

She eyed him warily. “What are you planning?”

He merely winked, placing a finger to his lips. “It’s a secret.”

Debra shook her head, baffled by his cryptic response.

The following day, news of Michael’s departure spread like wildfire through the company. Debra returned to her desk to find her once-organized workspace in chaos. Files were strewn about, and her computer monitor was plastered with sticky notes.