Chased by my Ex Husband novel Chapter 9

Grace

After an hour, the car comes to a stop in front of a tall tower. I stare at the envelope in my hand, completely unconcerned about Tristin’s unwavering gaze on me.

“ I own the penthouse. You can stay as long as you want. ” He says, his voice deep and low.

“ I still don’t understand it…What do you truly want? ” I whisper, keeping my gaze on the envelope.

“ I told you. I want you to work for me. ” Tristin repeats.

“ What would you achieve by having me work for you? I am inexperienced, and not much of a help in anything. ” I sigh, meeting his eyes and finding myself holding my breath.

“ At age 17, you won the international contest for the best building design. Later, Ethan used your design and earned millions. Surprisingly, your sister took the credit for it in his company. ” He straightens his cuffs, taking his eyes off me.

A noose tightens around my throat as I stare at him.

Lily asked me to give her that winning design because she wanted to impress Ethan. As her sister, I didn’t think much about it.

My parents said I was talented. I can always make more million-dollar-worthy designs.

“ She stole from you, didn’t she? All her winning designs, her best works, and her reputation. ” He looks up nonchalantly.

I swallow the lump in my throat and nod slowly.

“ I know talent when I see it. You are a rare gem, Little Butterfly. ” He leans in closer suddenly.

I gasp, my back pressing into the door. He moves closer, his dark eyes peering into mine deeply.

“ It’s time you let them all know how worthless they are without you. A rare gem like you. ” His voice deepens.

My heart clenches in my chest. “ Mr. Roberto. ”

“ Be my rare gem and let me borrow some of your winning streaks. I will make your husband and your sister grovel. In return, you have to earn me the big bucks by defeating your family and your husband at every turn. Can you…do that for me? ” His breath ghosts my forehead.

It feels inappropriate for him to be so close, but I can’t seem to push him away. This feels so wrong. Yet, I am frozen.

“ Think about it. ” The door behind me opens with a click.

Instantly, he moves away. I realize he was only opening the door for me and shake my head.

“ I will give it a thought. ” I whisper, getting out of the car.

“ Grace. ” He calls me out before I can rush away.

I turn around and face him. “ Yes, Mr. Roberto. ”

“ Linda is waiting for you in the lobby. Don’t think about running away. Your husband is out there, looking for you like a mad dog. You will be much safer in the penthouse. No one will interrupt your stay or bother you with their presence. ” He says before looking away from me.

It feels like his way of telling me that I don’t need to be scared. I will be alone in that space and no one will bring me any harm.

I struggle between trusting a stranger who seems to have a vendetta against Lily and roaming the streets where Ethan must be looking for me.

The car zooms past me, leaving me alone. And I lose the battle within myself.

Clenching the envelope between my fingers, I stroll inside the Lobby. A young woman approaches me with a polite smile on her lips.