Chapter 20: One-Sided Love

"Lydia, you shameless woman! You seduced me to advance your career, pretending to be drunk and asking me for a ride, then stripping off my clothes. You bitch…" Zayne shouted at Lydia, pinned to the floor by Jared.

Jared lifted his foot. Zayne instantly sprang up and lunged at Lydia, viciously slapping her across the face.

Lydia covered her face, glaring. "Zayne, you scumbag! You told me you only loved me, that you were with Maria for her money. I never expected you to be involved with so many other women…"

Enraged, Lydia fought back. Soon, their clothes were torn, and Zayne’s face was bloodied.

Josephine wearily watched the scene unfold. "Security! Remove these two from the premises!"

Several guards rushed in, ready to escort them out.

Zayne, unwilling to leave, grabbed Maria’s feet. "Maria, I'm sorry! I was wrong. Please help me!"

Maria recoiled in disgust, kicking him away. He tried to crawl back, but the guards dragged him away.

"Why… why… I won't give up so easily…" Zayne yelled, his pleas falling on deaf ears.

Both Zayne and Lydia were fired. The sales department watched in suspense, having previously mocked Jared to curry favor with Zayne.

Jared addressed the department. "The company needs a general manager. Maria, you will fill that position. Hilda, you will be the new sales manager. I expect both of you to excel."

The department erupted in applause. Maria was surprised. She hadn't expected Jared to promote her, especially given their strained relationship.

Someone urged, "Maria, thank Mr. Chance!"

Snapping out of her daze, Maria said, "Jared—Mr. Chance—thank you. I won't let you down!" She then nudged Hilda. "Hilda, thank Mr. Chance."

Hilda, expressionless, murmured, "Thank you, Mr. Chance." Jared's heart sank. He knew he couldn't force love.

"Everyone else remains in their current positions. Back to work," Jared announced, his leniency met with relief and gratitude.

As the staff departed, Jared watched Hilda. He wanted to speak with her, but Josephine was nearby. Josephine rose. "Go ahead, Jared. Sometimes, clarity is best. I'm leaving."

Jared caught up with Hilda. "Hilda, I've always considered you a sister. I never intended to deceive you, but my parents' misunderstanding with Josephine made it difficult to be honest."

"Jared, you don't need to explain," Hilda said, forcing a smile. "It was one-sided from the start. You're doing well, and I'm young. There will be someone better for me in the future."

"I'm sure of it," Jared agreed. (The final sentence about a website has been removed as it is irrelevant and promotional).