What She Overheard in Her Own Marriage novel Chapter 198

"What did she say?" Finnian's expression instantly turned cold.

Noelle stared at him blankly for a moment, her eyes looking hollow before she finally spoke. "The last time we argued over the rights to the tranquilizer project, Kaia came to my office. She told me I've made a career out of riding her coattails. She said using other people's hard work as my stepping stone was pathetic."

After dropping that lie, Noelle buried her face in her hands, pretending she couldn't bear to look Finnian in the eye.

"And she's right. If I'm not good enough, I should just admit defeat," Noelle choked out, her voice trembling. "But... talent has its limits. Not everyone is a brilliant technical genius like her. I've been trying so hard... trying to do everything perfectly..."

Watching her shoulders shake as she sobbed, the dark storm in Finnian's eyes intensified.

Did Kaia really say something that cruel?

How could she look Noelle in the eye and say something so vicious?

"I'm sorry, Finnian. I shouldn't be falling apart like this." Noelle quickly wiped the tears from the corners of her eyes. "Like I said, she wasn't entirely wrong. It hurt to hear, but it's the truth."

"She just... she has a superiority complex when it comes to her work. Don't let her get to you," Finnian said, his voice turning rough as he tried to comfort her.

"I know. And for your sake, I won't hold it against her. I know Kaia is arrogant by nature, but she's got the resume to back it up. I'll just have to deal with it," Noelle said, forcing a brave smile while keeping her hands politely behind her back, playing the role of the humble, understanding victim flawlessly.

Finnian had originally intended to ask Kaia for help, but Noelle's words completely killed that idea.

Besides, Kaia never did anything for free. If he asked her for a favor, she'd definitely use it as leverage. Finnian sighed inwardly. What exactly had their marriage turned into?

It certainly didn't feel like a marriage anymore.

Inside the conference room the next day, the air was thick with tension.

Across the long table, the Aethelstan team led by Finnian sat facing the Cytogene representatives. After days of grinding negotiations, exhaustion was visible on both sides.

"Dr. Shirley," Finnian began, setting his expensive pen down on the table. "We fully understand Cytogene's concerns regarding IP protection and market risk. However, I'd like to propose a few new structural dimensions that might break this gridlock."

Dr. Shirley gestured for him to continue.

Finnian signaled Dexter to distribute the newly drafted proposal to the opposing team.

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABELVerify