Chapter 356
Jonathan Reeves had always been haunted by the memory of how his ex's family looked down on his humble beginnings. That rejection had fueled his ambition to build his own successful studio from scratch.
Now that his business was thriving, he secretly hoped they would regret underestimating him.
Evelyn Carter seemed like the perfect choiceโshe came from a powerful family with devoted brothers. Since she was divorced, he assumed she wouldnโt have many options left.
Jonathan was confident, charming, and successful. He had no doubt she would eventually fall for him.
But what if Evelyn was just like his ex? Another gold-digger who judged him for his past?
Evelyn sighed, deciding to lay the truth bare. "Jonathan, it's not about you. You can't force feelings."
She hesitated before adding, "Besides, technically, I'm still married. My divorce isn't finalized. We're just... not compatible in any way."
If she didnโt make herself clear now, he would keep misunderstanding.
But Jonathan didnโt take the rejection at face value. His mind racedโwas she turning him down because she wasnโt officially divorced yet?
If that was the case, he still had a chance.
With a dramatic, heartfelt declaration, he insisted, "Evelyn, I can wait. Itโs okay."
Marrying her would bring him countless benefitsโconnections, status, influence. He had already calculated every advantage.
A little patience was nothing compared to what he stood to gain. He could use this time to prove his devotion to her brothers.
Evelynโs patience snapped. "Youโre not listening, Jonathan. I donโt like you. Which part of that donโt you understand?"
Then she dropped the bomb. "And I saw you at La Belle รtoile with Mrs. Reeves and some young socialite. You gave her the same roses. That was a setup, wasnโt it?"
His expression faltered. He hadnโt expected her to witness that.
Panicking, he scrambled for an excuse. "Evelyn, I thought it was just dinner with my mother! I had no idea sheโ"
Evelyn cut him off, pulling out her phone. "Then explain this article."
Jonathan paled. "I just found out about it! Someone must have leaked it. If it bothers you, Iโll clarify everything. I wonโt let this affect you."
She wasnโt buying it. "How long are you going to keep lying? You released that article yourself."
He stiffened. "What? No! Why would Iโ"
Evelyn pointed at his computer. "The IP address traces back to your device. Check your browser history if you donโt believe me."
The revelation stunned him. He hadnโt anticipated her digging that deep.
Desperate, he switched tactics. "Evelyn, I only did it because I care about you! I wanted to show you how serious I amโthat your past doesnโt matter to me. I was going to delete it after hearing how you felt!"
But Evelyn had already seen through him. The game was over.