**A Promise Hidden in the Quiet Rain by Adrian Hale**
**Chapter 311: Web of Deceit**
“Whether I’m being disrespectful or not, Mr. Lewis, this isn’t the first time I’ve done so. If there’s nothing else on your agenda, I would appreciate it if you returned to your office. I have quite a bit of documentation that requires my attention,” Chloe replied, a light chuckle escaping her lips. “I really need to carve out some time to sift through the operational data of the Lewis Group from recent years.”
Scott, feeling the sting of her dismissive tone, turned away in frustration, his mind racing with indignation.
As he walked away, Chloe’s gaze followed him, her expression darkening with a mix of pity and disdain.
Scott, you’ve always prided yourself on your cunning, but in truth, your life seems rather pitiful.
After exiting Chloe’s office, Scott made his way back to his own, the familiar chaos of paperwork and partnership proposals surrounding him like an unwelcoming fog. His thoughts were scattered, refusing to settle. Chloe’s words echoed in his mind, causing him to hesitate, a knot of anxiety tightening in his stomach.
Lately, Monique’s demeanor toward him had taken a noticeable turn for the colder.
Ever since he had transferred shares to Chloe, Monique had made it her mission to complicate his life at every turn. Now, with Chloe at the helm of the Lewis Group—albeit on a precarious one-month probation to prove her worth—Scott felt a mix of hope and dread.
If she truly could steer the company back to stability, he would feel a wave of relief wash over him. After all, she was his daughter. Despite their differences, he wanted nothing more than for her to rise to the occasion and shoulder the burdens of the family business.
Yet, he couldn’t shake the feeling that Monique would only escalate her games.
Deciding to leave the office early, Scott instructed his driver to bring the car around, hoping to mend the rift with Monique. On the way home, he made a spontaneous stop at a jewelry store, where he picked out a limited-edition diamond necklace, its brilliance catching his eye. He followed that with an order for a lush bouquet of roses, hoping that these gestures might soften Monique’s heart.
As he sat in the backseat, the city lights flickering past, Scott reflected on the years that had slipped by. His focus had been almost entirely consumed by the demands of the company. He had poured every ounce of energy into steering it back on course, but in doing so, he had neglected the very family that should have been his anchor.
Chloe had been distant for far too long, and as her father, he regretted not being there for her.
He yearned for a harmonious family life—dreaming of a day when Chloe and Monique could bond like sisters, laughing and sharing secrets. But what could he possibly do to make that happen?
Upon arriving home, Scott quietly instructed the staff to keep his return under wraps, wanting to surprise Monique with his thoughtful gifts.
However, as he cautiously opened the door to their bedroom, disappointment washed over him—Monique was nowhere to be found.
“Where is Monique?” he inquired of a housemaid, his heart beginning to race with worry.
Monique playfully swatted away his wandering hand, her mood having soured before she sought comfort in his embrace.
“Enough already. I’m feeling irritable. I think I heard my phone ring earlier—I should check who called,” she said, attempting to rise from his side.
“What’s the hurry? We’ve only just begun. I’m far from finished, and there’s no way you’re satisfied already,” Ernesto replied, pulling her back into his grasp. “Let me finish this cigarette, and then we can continue.”
“Get lost. What if it was Scott calling?” Monique’s expression shifted, concern creeping in. “I just told the staff I was going for a walk. Who would have guessed I’d end up here with you?”
“Just means my bed is far more enticing, doesn’t it?” Ernesto tightened his hold on her, a smirk dancing on his lips. “That old man Scott is becoming increasingly difficult to deal with. I can’t believe he actually let that girl Chloe step into the company as VP. What nonsense!”
Monique’s anger flared at the mention of Chloe. The very thought of her appointment ignited a fire within her.
“That old fool. I’ll make him regret this sooner or later,” Monique scoffed, her voice laced with bitterness. “Handing over such a significant chunk of shares without a second thought! I’ve stood by him all these years, putting up with his nonsense, and all I got was a measly slice—not even a fraction of what that little witch walked away with.”
“Don’t be upset. Lewis Group will ultimately be ours. Chloe is already stirring chaos as soon as she takes office. I’m eager to see just how far she can push things,” Ernesto remarked, his tone dripping with satisfaction. “I should thank her for all this turmoil. The more chaos she creates at Lewis Group, the more the shareholders will rebel. When the moment is right, I can simply swoop in and claim it all for myself.”

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