The Paper Wife’s Empire novel Chapter 342

Tucked away was a blurry photo of a handwritten note. The script was messy.

*“Thank you for this part of the journey, Holden.”*

A jolt went through Nova. She knew that handwriting. It belonged to her poor, dear friend. She always drew out the strokes of her characters. At the bottom was her name: Loretta.

So it was true. Holden had toyed with her emotions, and he had known she wasn't in a good state of mind. He had told Nova he thought his old acquaintance had brought it on herself, getting tangled up in her emotions. He had known full well the damage he’d caused, yet he could so casually wash his hands of it all, as if he had nothing to do with it.

…

When Nova returned to her apartment, Holden was already out of the shower, a new towel wrapped around his waist. Seeing her trudge in with a shopping bag, he looked displeased. “You took too long.”

Nova said nothing, simply handing the bag to Holden before turning to leave.

“Nova.”

Holden stopped her, his voice suddenly several degrees colder. “Have you seen my phone?”

“It’s on the table,” Nova replied, her lips pressed into a thin line.

“I don’t see it,” Holden said flatly.

Nova pushed past him, went into the room, and emerged a moment later with the phone, placing it in his hand. “Perhaps you’re not familiar with my apartment. My table is a mess.”

Holden gripped the phone. Its slight warmth was a dead giveaway. A slow, knowing smile spread across his face as the truth dawned on him. Her excuse was so clumsy, she wasn't even trying to act. No wonder she’d come back today. No wonder she’d agreed to let him stay. It was all for this.

A fresh wave of frustration washed over him. “You know this is illegal, right?” he called after her. “Stealing data from my phone for Ramona. Do you really think I’ll just let you get away with it?”

“Then call the police.” Nova couldn’t be bothered to argue. She knew that by doing this, her little dance with Holden was over. It was a shame she couldn’t avenge her friend herself, couldn’t tear this twisted bastard apart with her own two hands.

Holden spun around, his voice trembling with a barely suppressed emotion. “Beg me. Maybe I’ll forgive you.”

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