Chapter 169: Two Peas in a Pod

Calvin immediately noticed Cecilia standing behind Nathaniel. He gave her a reassuring look, then turned his attention to Nathaniel, extending his hand.

“Mr. Rainsworth, what a pleasure to meet you.”

The anticipated tension was absent. Instead, an unexpected air of gentlemanliness prevailed. Nathaniel shook Calvin's hand. He then turned to Cecilia, saying, “This is my wife, Cecilia.” As he spoke, he drew Cecilia into his arms, encircling her waist.

Cecilia tried to pull away, but he tightened his grip, refusing to release her even when she scratched him hard enough to draw blood. His expression remained calm.

Calvin observed, showing no surprise. “There’s no need for introductions. Ceci and I are childhood friends; I understand her better than you do, Mr. Rainsworth.”

Nathaniel turned to Cecilia with brooding eyes. “Darling, how come you never mentioned this childhood friend?” He held her tightly, making her feel as if he might squeeze the life out of her. A bitter sorrow filled her heart; only in such moments did he deign to call her his wife.

“Perhaps you’ve forgotten,” she replied softly. The Nathaniel of the past hadn't cared about her friends; he knew nothing of Calvin.

“In that case, once I’m done discussing business with Mr. Reese, you two can catch up.”

“That won’t be necessary,” Cecilia said, understanding the sarcasm.

Nathaniel drew closer, deliberately displaying affection. Lowering his voice, he asked, “You don’t see him now, what if you meet him behind my back in the future?”

Cecilia gazed at him coldly. Nathaniel, meeting her icy gaze, felt a shiver run through him. He quickly averted his eyes.

Calvin observed their interaction, enduring the resentment and anger welling up within him. Cecilia was still married to Nathaniel; he was merely her childhood friend.

Nathaniel left Cecilia and went to the conference room with Calvin. Cecilia's waist ached.

Mason offered her a glass of water. “Ms. Smith, why push yourself through this?”

Cecilia looked at him, questioning, “What do you mean? What did I do wrong this time?”

Mason hesitated. “I think you should focus on living a good life with Mr. Rainsworth, instead of doing things beneath your dignity for others. What if the other Rainsworths find out about your complicated relationship with Calvin? What would happen to Mr. Rainsworth’s reputation?”

Live a good life with Mr. Rainsworth… Mr. Rainsworth’s reputation… Have they ever thought about me? Nathaniel once treated me with cold indifference. He was involved with other women, his words constantly hurt me, and he never fulfilled his responsibilities as a husband. I was bullied, yet he never once came to my aid. Now, he wants me to live a good life with him… and consider his reputation… I sacrificed my freedom to work, all for his reputation and dignity.

“You and your boss are really two peas in a pod.” Nathaniel took me to see Calvin today without explanation. Now Mason is demanding so much from me… Mason didn’t understand Cecilia’s words; he was simply offering friendly advice. After all, Nathaniel had mellowed; this was what Cecilia had been waiting for.

“Ms. Smith, sometimes it’s wise not to push your luck. If pushed too far, things might become irreparable.”