Chapter 4 The Number 0825

In the investment industry, when people talked about business, they would hire escorts to lighten the mood and facilitate cooperation.

It turned out that in Jonathan's eyes, Bethany was no different from an escort. In that case, did he also think that last night was a "favor" arranged by Carson?

Bethany's face burned with shame when she heard Jonathan's words, but she had no choice but to set aside her pride for the time being.

She needed this job; after all, her mother's medical expenses weren't going to pay for themselves.

Sensing the tension in the atmosphere, Carson forced a smile and said lightly, "Mr. Bates, you misunderstand. Bethany has always been an assistant. I just thought that since you both are from Brokdon, you might have something in common, so I invited her to join us. But of course, if you're not happy with this arrangement, I'll have her leave immediately."

As he said this last part, he shot a meaningful glance at Bethany, who took the hint. But just as she turned to leave, Jonathan's commanding voice boomed across the private room. "Have a seat."

Bethany was stunned.

"Hey, Bethany, you heard Mr. Bates. Take a seat," Carson hissed, snapping Bethany out of her reverie.

As soon as she sat down, Carson glared at her, urging her with his eyes to pour Jonathan a glass of wine.

She lowered her gaze and picked up the wine bottle, but before she could refill the glass in front of her, a large hand blocked it.

"Carson Smith, if you want to work at Ensson Corporation long-term, relying on these little tricks won't help. I've been following Glora Company's project, and you're in a weak position right now. Instead of buttering up to me, you should be doing your best to recover the losses."

Jonathan's stern expression and frown showed his displeasure, making it clear this was a final warning.

"Yes, yes, Mr. Bates. It's really my fault this time. Next time, I'll-"

"There'll be no next time."

With that, Jonathan withdrew his hand from the glass, took his coat, and stood up. He left the room with his secretary, showing no respect for the others in the room and not even sparing another glance at Bethany.

After they left, Carson, furious, decisively vented his anger on Bethany.

"It was a mistake to ask you to come here. You don't even know how to smile. Mr. Bates was pissed because of your shitty attitude!"

"Mr. Smith, I'm an assistant," Bethany countered with a frown. "My job doesn't include being an escort, and I've never been trained for that."

"How dare you talk back to me? Do you know how hard I worked to get him here? I thought you were beautiful and smart, but it turns out you're useless. I should fire you."

After huffing and puffing, Carson shot Bethany a ferocious look, kicked the door open, and stormed out.

This was the most embarrassing moment Bethany had ever experienced at work-perhaps even in her whole life.

She thought she would cry, but apart from the slight sting in her eyes, there were no tears. Early in her career, she learned that the lower her position, the lower her head would have to bow.

But she never thought that Jonathan would be so indifferent to her. She thought he would at least show her some semblance of kindness since they'd had sex last night.

It was said that Jonathan was extremely difficult to get along with, and now, having experienced his ruthlessness firsthand, Bethany understood what that meant.

As she dejectedly made her way back to her hotel room, her phone rang. It was Aimee calling.

"Hey, what happened? Why'd Carson suddenly kick you out of the work chat group?"

"Nothing," Bethany replied, trying to conceal the sadness in her voice.

"Humph! Did his little honey trap fail?" Aimee had hit the nail on the head. "I knew a petty little trick like that wouldn't work on someone as indifferent as Mr. Bates!"

Hearing this, Bethany wanted to laugh. "I don't think he's as indifferent as you think."

After all, he had been so passionate with her in bed last night.

"True. They say Mr. Bates has been in love with a certain girl for years and years."

Aimee's words reminded Bethany of the tattoo on his collarbone.

The number 0825.

It was obviously a date.