Chapter 101

After speaking, Cora subtly glanced at Joanna, conveying a message. Joanna understood without a word. They had worked together for so long that a look often sufficed. Additionally, Jaydon's repeated calls had already alerted her to his arrival.

"Alright, got it," Joanna said. "You may receive the client. I'll be there shortly."

"Alright, Miss Haynes," Cora replied respectfully before leaving.

Bruce's eyelids drooped. "Who's here?" he asked.

Joanna, not daring to ignore him, replied, "A client. I'm going to meet them."

Bruce remained speechless, rolling his eyes before returning to his newspaper.

Joanna left the office. In the reception room, she found Jaydon.

"Jay, why are you here?" Joanna asked.

"What's wrong? Can't I see you?" Jaydon asked with a warm smile. He continued, "Why didn't you answer my calls? I thought something had happened!"

Discomfort flickered across Joanna's face. She forced a smile. "No, I was busy and didn't hear the phone."

Jaydon noticed several dark bruises on her neck, partially concealed by her scarf. He instantly understood.

"Uh, is there something wrong?" Joanna asked nervously.

Jaydon's heart ached, but he maintained a gentle smile. "I brought you coffee and cake."

"Thank you!" Joanna replied, taking the tote bag, worry evident in her eyes. "Jay, if nothing's urgent, please go. I'm busy today, but I'll treat you to dinner tonight." She was worried about another confrontation with Bruce.

Jaydon felt a pang of disappointment. He used to enjoy watching her work, but today, she wouldn't even let him into the office.

"By the way," Jaydon said, "Irvin's advertisement is a huge success! The response has been phenomenal!"

"Really?" Joanna exclaimed. "That's great!"

"I'll have to hire him for another ad," Jaydon said, explaining his desire to sign Irvin to his entertainment company. Irvin was talented, cute, and good-looking; plus, it would allow him more time with Joanna. Joanna was speechless, stunned.

"My company's also starting a movie," Jaydon continued. "We need a child actor, and Irvin would be perfect. I want to take him to an audition next Sunday."

Joanna's expression turned serious. "Jay, you know I don't want my children in the public eye often. I'm sorry, I have to decline."

Jaydon argued, "Joann, with today's media, exposure is hard to avoid. Irvin's so cute, he could have a great career. I've asked him, and he's interested. Don't worry, it won't affect his studies or life."

Joanna shook her head. "Jay, he's still young. He doesn't understand the choices he's making. I don't want him to be too focused on his career choices."

Jaydon persisted, "Just one movie! It won't take long. Think of it as helping me; I can't find anyone suitable."

"Jay, it's really not possible," Joanna insisted.

Just as Jaydon was about to continue, Bruce appeared at the reception room door. "Joanna, is this the client?"

Joanna trembled at the sound of his voice. Jaydon was displeased. "Bruce, why are you here?"

Bruce strode in. "I'm a company director. Is that strange? And you? I thought the company had a rule against non-employees on the premises."

"Jay, you should go," Joanna urged. "I'll treat you to dinner." She gently pushed him towards the exit.

Jaydon looked extremely unhappy. "Joann, did he hurt you again?"

Joanna sighed, helplessness evident in her eyes. "I'm fine. Please leave!"

Bruce sneered, looking wickedly at Jaydon. "You guessed right! She slept with me again! Do you still want a woman like that?"

"Bruce, you're not a man!" Jaydon roared, veins bulging in his temples. He raised his fist.

"Jay, don't!" Joanna cried, rushing to stop him.

Bruce smiled coldly. "What right do you have to criticize me? You've been involved with every female artist under your management! When it comes to womanizing, I'm no match for you! Why pretend to be sincere?"

Jaydon's anger was palpable. He had indeed had ambiguous relationships with several female artists under his management. He was naturally romantic, and the women were young and beautiful. Many pursued him actively.

Bruce smirked, disdain in his eyes. "I'm warning you," he said. "Joanna is my woman, and she'll be for life. Other men shouldn't even think about her, especially a playboy like you!"

Neither man was perfect. Bruce, though he hadn't slept with Roxanne, had many other affairs, but he was far more ruthless than Jaydon, discarding women after using them and dealing harshly with those who pestered him. This resulted in fewer scandals.

"Joann, don't listen to him," Jaydon pleaded, flustered. "I truly have feelings for you"

Joanna frowned. "Jay, don't say anything. Go home. We'll talk tonight." She pushed him out.

"Hmph! Bruce, don't push it!" Jaydon spat.

"Jaydon, know your place!" Bruce retorted.