Chapter 3

Evelyn went on, "You know, Oliver's been watching you with suspicion for a while now. About a month ago, he actually sent people to dig into what you've been doing for the past eight years.

"He was convinced your sudden reappearance at the company was all part of some scheme, so that's why he can't bring himself to trust you anymore."

I gave a self-deprecating chuckle.

I said, "Honestly, maybe it's for the best. If Nora's framing makes him completely hate me, then at least this whole mess between us can finally be put to rest."

But to my surprise, Evelyn, who used to hate me the most, took my hand and let out a deep sigh.

She said, "After seeing all those women come and go around Oliver all these years, I finally realized you're the one who fits him best.

"You're kind and simple, not vain at all, and you truly love Oliver. You were willing to leave for him, and you came back for him, too. That means a lot to me.

"And honestly, your return made Nora choose to end her pregnancy on her own. I can't tell you how relieved I felt."

Evelyn never thought much of the women Oliver brought home from those nightclubs.

For her, all this turned out to be an unexpected bonus.

Evelyn patted my shoulder, urging me, "I'll explain everything to Oliver for you. If it allows, I truly hope you and Oliver can end up together."

Evelyn added, "And there's something else you need to know. Nora was willing to give up her own baby just to set you up. She is cold-blooded and calculating.

"You really need to watch your back from now on. Who knows what kind of schemes she'll try next?"

Evelyn also told me, "I've already arranged for your mom to be transferred to the best hospital in town.

"All the outstanding medical bills have been taken care of, and I've even deposited several million in advance for her treatment, so you don't have to worry about a thing."

I never would've guessed that the biggest surprise was finally burying the hatchet with Evelyn when I'd end up back with Oliver.

After chatting with Evelyn, I walked her out.

And right at the door, we bumped into Oliver.

When he saw me standing with Evelyn, the suspicion in his eyes only deepened.

He asked, "Eight years ago, my mom couldn't stand you. So why are you two suddenly so close now?"

Oliver let out a cold laugh and slammed a file right in front of us.

He said, "I've already investigated everything. My mom even gave you money and took care of your family. So what's the real story between you two?"

Just as Evelyn was about to explain, Oliver suddenly interrupted, his eyes flashing with sudden realization.

He said, "I get it now. My mom's always had it out for Nora. She must've asked you to come back just to target Nora and her unborn child.

"Using her to do your dirty work. How clever, Iris. I never thought you'd be so shameless, all for money."

Back when Evelyn forced me out, Oliver and Evelyn pretty much stopped getting along.

Now, even if Evelyn tried to explain, Oliver wouldn't buy a word of it.

Evelyn was left with no way to defend herself, and I could only shake my head, my heart turning cold.

I said, "Oliver, since you've already decided it was me, nothing I say will make a difference."

Honestly, whatever tied me and Oliver together ended a long time ago.

I came back this time for the money.

At first, I had some wishful thinking. Evelyn's words and the affection Oliver once showed me made me wonder if things could be different.

But after watching him mess around with all those women, unable to stay loyal to any of them, I finally let go of all my regrets. I gave up on him completely.

All that stuff about missing me or always trying to find someone who could take my place was just his excuse for fooling around with other women.