Chapter 2 You Are Born To Collect Garbage

"Hello." Richard's icy voice came, shattering my feigned composure.

I straightened up, clinging to my last shred of pride. "Richard, we're adults. We can have a civil relationship and part ways amicably. I earned the position of legal consultant on my merit. Is it not a bit excessive to replace me just like that?"

Richard's response was a derisive chuckle. "You're aware of how you landed that position."

"Why wouldn't it be my effort?" To secure a partnership with Zenith Group, I invested three months in preparation, engaged in numerous discussions, and outshone over a dozen local law firms. Richard's insinuation dismissed all my hard work.

I couldn't resist arguing with him, but all I got in response was a busy tone. The call had been disconnected.

His decisiveness left no room for discussion, and I felt a surge of irritation.

The legal counsel commission from Zenith Group was consistently hefty throughout the year. Some cases even brought in additional commissions. If I lose it, my income would decrease by at least half.

Today had been a double blow: losing both a sex partner and a substantial income.

The music blared in the bar. Seated at the counter, Bella Dixon clutched a dark beer and hollered in my ear, "You still haven't learned after all these years? This world is unjust to women. Don't bother trying to level the playing field with men! Getting into bed is no issue. You need to extract all the advantages you desire from him. Don't put on airs. Otherwise, you'll just let a scoundrel take advantage of you!"

Bella was my best friend. She had fun with numerous guys but never fell for any of them. Knowing I was feeling down, she whisked me to the bar and tried to make me happy.

My tolerance for alcohol was low. After Bella coaxed me into a few drinks, my head started spinning. I yelled at her, "It's me taking advantage of him! He's like a gigolo to me!"

But just as I finished, the DJ cut the music, creating a brief silence. My words echoed like thunder across the hall, drawing stares from many people.

"I need to leave," I said, feeling embarrassed and guilt under so many gazes. I couldn't stay put any longer. With my head down, I pulled Bella away from the commotion. But as we took a few steps, I collided with a sturdy chest.

Even during the bar's chaos, I could spot Richard almost instantly. That habit was a nuisance. It dredged up memories I'd rather forget.

Determined not to show any vulnerability, I stepped back, my expression chilly. "Pleasure to see you, Mr. Harvey."

Richard's gaze was dark and intense. Meanwhile, the young woman beside him greeted me. "Hey, Elin. What a surprise bumping into you here."

Then I recognized the speaker as Caroline, who had taken my business.

Her relationship with Richard was different from mine. She stood beside him, calm and close, like a genuine girlfriend.

It suddenly struck me why Richard wanted to end things with me. He was pouring his heart into his new woman. I was foolish to dial his number. Perhaps the two of them would share a laugh at my expense after I hung up.

Caroline continued to gaze at me, her countenance radiating innocence and kindness.

I forced a smile and retorted, "Quite the coincidence. You snagged the job I had no interest in and the man I never wanted. If it weren't for the sheer coincidence, I'd say you were born to collect trash."

Caroline didn't anticipate my direct response, leaving her momentarily speechless. She looked around, then back at me with a guise of innocence. "Elin, I didn't realize you and Mr. Harvey had a..."

"I have nothing to do with her." Richard cut in abruptly. He didn't meet my gaze. Instead, he comforted Caroline. "You head in first. I'll follow shortly."

That sight cut deep.

What was the use of winning the verbal battle?

Our encounters were kept private. I knew his every breath, the contours of his body, and his concealed truths. However, I had never witnessed such a patient expression on his face before.

Through his actions, he conveyed I was an easy woman willing to share a bed with him, while a virtuous lady like Caroline deserved his patience.

And the worst part? I couldn't deny it. It was infuriating!

Bella, sensing my distress, quickly stepped in front of me. "Elin, let's head to the car."

But Richard acted swiftly, seizing me before I could utter a word. He possessed such strength that my best efforts couldn't free me from his grip. I had no choice but to be pulled away by him.

I cursed, "Richard, you bastard!"

Bella quickly followed, shouting, "Richard, let her go!"

Richard seemed to ignore her, dragging me through the crowded bar.

The place was bustling, with even a couple intimately engaged on a couch in the corner. Richard finally pulled me into the bathroom.