Ridiculous. It was absolutely ridiculous. I had been outplayed by Nicholas, someone I once trusted deeply.
In the study of Coral Villa, it was the second time Nicholas helped me reclaim the company. Back then, he asked, "Aren't you going to read through it before signing?"
I shook my head. I thought Nicholas would never stoop to using underhanded tactics against me. I believed I was special to him.
During that period, we barely saw each other. But every time we did, he would cling to me. He immersed himself in our embraces, lingering with his cold lips brushing against mine until they turned fiery.
I foolishly thought he had feelings for me, at least a little. So, I didn't hesitate to sign my name and stamp the document. But now, as I held the yellowing document in my hand, I realized that he had tampered with it.
Nicholas had added a line of fine print.
"Jones Corporation will assume all the responsibilities and obligations outlined in the agreements between Hawk Corporation and its shareholders."
With that single clause, I had been put in a very passive position. I had no idea how Nicholas negotiated or what terms he agreed to just to get Jones Corporation back.
When the time came to tear things apart, he would have every advantage. He could say whatever suited him. Thinking of the way Nicholas looked at me earlier sent a chill through my entire body.
…
After feeding Tabitha in the morning, I left her in Wendy's care, asking her to help look after her. I originally planned to take Tabitha to the kindergarten I had chosen, but that had to be postponed.
"Tabitha, Mommy's going to work now. Be good and wait for me to come home, okay?"
I bent down to stroke her head. I didn't expect her to respond. But today, as if she sensed something, she grabbed my sleeve and wouldn't let go.
She gazed out the window as she called out, "Daddy."
I crouched down with a sigh. It had to be Pete constantly teaching her to say "Daddy" that left this habit.
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The readers' comments on the novel: Trouble in Paradise (Arianna and Nicholas)
Unrealistic story. Siblings in love?...