Chapter 2
There was a one-month cooling-off period, and Ashley decided to take their son and move out.
The home she’d decorated herself now felt sickening to stay in for even one more day.
That morning, she was organizing clothes in the walk-in closet when Aaron entered and habitually stood beside her, waiting for her to hand him the matched jacket and tie.
“Ashley, take our boy and stay out for a few days.
“He’s been crying every night lately. Nicole’s a light sleeper and it’s wearing her down. Once she’s recovered, I’ll bring you and our son home immediately.”
Ashley tore her silk dress with an accidental jerk, leaving a long gash.
Fine. Perfect.
She’d been struggling to find the right words to discuss moving out. Now she wouldn’t need an excuse.
Summoning every ounce of strength, she forced a single word from her throat: “Fine.”
Aaron waited, then stepped closer when she didn’t hand him his clothes. His arms encircled her gently. “Upset? Nicole’s always been delicate-”
Ashley shoved him away impatiently. “Nicole, Nicole. You never stop talking about her. Anyone would think she’s your mistress.”
Aaron’s face darkened instantly. “What vile nonsense! And you call yourself educated-such filth from someone who attended a top university.”
He turned and slammed the door to leave, but came back and warned, “Don’t let me hear any gossip out there.”
That same day, Ashley called movers to transfer everything to her pre-marital home.
She thought she’d never have to see Nicole’s face again, but Nicole actually showed up at her company.
“Sis, I feel awful that my health issues forced you and Rui Rui out of your home. I came to help – give me a position. Aaron already approved.”
“No.”
Nicole snapped:
“I’m a Stanford grad! Do you know how many companies are begging to hire me? I came here for family, and you’re
acting high and mighty! Don’t push your luck!”
Ashley immediately had security escort her out.
Half an hour later, Aaron pushed aside a billion-dollar project and rushed over, his face icy.
“Why are you still targeting Nicole? You’re older than her-can’t you be more tolerant?”
Had he forgotten she was only one year older than Nicole?
Ashley didn’t want to argue and said flatly, “I’m not short on staff here. Let her find better opportunities elsewhere.”
“Ashley, you’re still so narrow-minded. I’m truly disappointed in you.”
Aaron turned and left with Nicole.
A few days later, executives and junior staff suddenly resigned en masse, paralyzing the company instantly.
Ashley personally tried recruiting but found no one. Frantic and overwhelmed, she finally sold the company at a rock- bottom price.
On the day of handing over to the new boss, she pushed open the office door and found Nicole sitting in her boss’s chair.
“Aaron said being an employee is boring, if you’re going to be something, be the boss. Ashley, don’t you think he’s a bit too domineering?”
“Aaron paid a year’s double salary to make those employees resign. Tens of millions.”
Ashley clenched her fist.
She started her business from university, struggling to move the office from a rented room in a residential area to the most upscale office building.
During that time, she went through countless hardships, sweat, and tears.
This company was her life’s work, her little daughter.
Aaron had seen countless times the hardships of her “raising a daughter,” but he sold it frivolously.
Sold to the murderer who nearly killed his son.
She regretted so deeply, regretted mistaking his persistence for sincerity.
Harmed the son, harmed the daughter, harmed herself.
Aaron walked in and sighed softly.
“It didn’t have to get this ugly… We’re all family, no distinction between you and me. Ashley, this is still your compa- ny.”
Ashley sneered.
“Family? Aaron, we won’t be for long.”
She handed the transfer documents to Nicole.
“You won. I don’t want the company anymore.”
288 Vouchers
As the words hung in the air, several thuds echoed-Nicole hurled the trophies and honors from her cabinet onto the floor.
Shards sprayed near Ashley’s feet, slicing her skin, blooming crimson.
Nicole picked up the last colorful ceramic trophy when Ashley shouted “Stop!” and rushed over to snatch it from her hands.
Nicole frowned deeply.
“You said you didn’t want the company anymore! Why yell at me for decorating my own office? You cut my finger!”
Aaron strode forward, gently taking her hand to examine it. A patch of skin was torn at her fingertip.
He snapped at Ashley, “Where’s the first aid kit!”
Ashley pointed wordlessly before turning to leave.
“Hold it.” Aaron’s voice cut through, his expression surprisingly calm. “Give the trophy to Nicole. This office is hers now. She has the right to dispose of anything here.”
His tone softened slightly. “If you like it, my son and I will make you a new one.”
Ashley studied the man with her eyes.
Aaron suddenly remembered that trophy was a gift from him and his father.
It was because of that love she cherished it so deeply.
But how much love did he truly have?
She didn’t even want him anymore, so why keep this?
Ashley’s heart became clear as day. She raised the trophy high and smashed it down with force.
