I Once Married You (Harper and Benjamin) novel Chapter 61

Chapter 61 A close relationship

Lauren's lips tightened as she glanced lightly at Benjamin. Speaking in a hushed tone, she remarked, "Today's conference is for my comeback. Let's keep the focus on my upcoming projects. As for my personal life, I prefer not to divulge too much. If there's any good news to share, I'll gladly do so with my fans."

Though Lauren's words seemed to discourage further inquiry, they only fueled speculation.

Meanwhile, in the company office, Harper watched the live broadcast. The image showed Benjamin, resplendent in a suit and leather shoes, standing beside Lauren, who was adorned in a flowing gown and exquisite makeup. Their proximity inevitably sparked questions about their relationship.

Harper sighed and closed the laptop, unwilling to delve deeper.

At that moment, the office door creaked open, and Frank entered, locking eyes with Harper.

He said, "Harper, what's Benjamin playing at? Attending Lauren's event in front of the media - it's like he's announcing their closeness."

Harper shrugged, wearing a nonchalant smile. "It's his prerogative."

"Harper, he's treating you unfairly. Why do you stay in this marriage?"

Harper met Frank's gaze calmly. "I understand your concern, but there are intricacies only the involved parties comprehend. Marriage isn't just about two individuals."

She wanted a divorce, but Benjamin's influence - both familial and personal - complicated matters. She couldn't simply walk away, not with the Martin family's hold over her.

She couldn't just ignore everything to cut off her relationship with Benjamin.

She couldn't do it.

Frank wanted to say more, but Harper cut him off gently. "I'm fine, Frank. Don't pity me. Each experience shapes us. Life isn't perfect."

Harper's smile left Frank speechless, his expression betraying a hint of sorrow. "Harper, I wish you'd stay away from him. I fear for your well-being..."

Backstage at Lauren's meeting, Benjamin strode out with a stern visage.

Lauren hurried after him. "Benjamin, please listen to me..."

He halted abruptly, fixing his gaze on her.

Their eyes met, and he spoke calmly, "Lauren, today was a one-time occurrence. I may tolerate your tantrums, but I won't tolerate deception."

With that, he turned and walked away, impervious to her pleas.

Tears welled in Lauren's eyes as she stood alone.

Just a couple minutes ago at the conference, a reporter's inquiry echoed, "Mr. Martin, can you shed light on your relationship with Ms. Davis? Are you two hiding your marriage?"

Benjamin's response was cool and measured. "We've been friends for years. Today is Lauren's day. I hope you focus on her achievements rather than fabricate rumors. Unsubstantiated claims only generate unnecessary attention."

With that, he descended from the stage, leaving Lauren seething with frustration.

She directed her ire towards Harper. If Harper hadn't lingered in Benjamin's life, she didn't need to misguide reporters to think they were together.

It was all Harper's fault. She impeded Lauren's marriage to Benjamin.

With a vengeful resolve, Lauren vowed to give Harper a hard time.

Her agent also caught up and asked, "Lauren, isn't Mr. Martin upset?"

"No, he has work to do first, let's continue," Harper replied with a light smile.

Returning to the stage, she serenaded her fans with familiar tunes. Her voice remained as captivating as ever, quickly overshadowing the earlier commotion.