"No trouble at all. But bear in mind, this is the family house. Be careful of your behavior." As Lyon said this, he caught sight of the red mark on my chin briefly, ridicule in his eyes.

Noticing Lyon's gaze resting on me, Jack scowled and stood in front of me. "I get it, Uncle Lyon."

His voice and face weren't nice, and his eyes on Lyon revealed a touch of caution.

Lyon smirked and walked away casually. "Alright, let's go and eat."

After Lyon had left, Jack tried to grab my hand, but I evaded him, turning away without a backward glance.

Jack quickly caught up, grabbing my hand in a firm grasp. "Be good, or I'll have a word with your father!"

My efforts to withdraw ceased, a wave of frustration and despair washing over me. If I hadn't agreed to be a housewife all those years ago, I wouldn't be in his control and threats today.

I needed to find a job in a hurry, earn enough to pay for my father's medical care, and free myself from Jack. Until then, it was pointless to debate divorce.

Having made up my mind, I stopped struggling and let Jack take me to the dining room.

After dinner, all the guests went home.

Jack and I arrived at our villa, and Jack locked the car doors, not making any effort to get out.

I frowned. "What are you doing?"

"We need to talk."

"If it's about divorce, there's no need. I won't bring it up for the moment."

Jack's eyes narrowed threateningly. "For the moment?"

"Yes."

Seeing my indifferent expression, Jack's lips were tightened into a thin line, his irritation evident. He knew that it would take some time for me to forgive his affair. As long as I did not mention divorce, he was sure that he stood a chance of winning me back.

After some time, he nodded. "Sofia, I'm glad you're giving me another chance."

I ignored his words, staring emptily at him. "Can you now open the car? I'm tired and want to rest."

With a click, the doors swung open.

I stepped out immediately, entering the villa without looking back.

When Jack reached the bedroom door, he discovered it locked from inside. He sighed, a smile tugging at his lips.

I'd lock the door to show I was angry when he had been too rough in bed. I'd unlock it after a few days.

His smile widened. "Never mind," he thought, "I'll win her over gradually."

We had a lifetime together. As long as I stayed with him and looked after him, he'd forgive him eventually.

I was choosing an outfit to wear for the interview the next day in the bedroom. I picked out a few, took photos, and sent them to Zara and asked for her opinion.

Zara called immediately. "Why the sudden job hunting? Have you and Jack sorted everything out?"

My tone was calm. "Not yet. I have to find a job first. I have no income. When I have saved up enough money for my dad's hospital expenses and my living, I'll discuss divorce." "So you're just going to stay with him as if nothing had happened?"

"Of course not. I have a bit of money in savings. I'll find a place to move out after the interview tomorrow."

I knew that divorce could not be rushed. I had no job and no money, so I couldn't even afford an attorney, much less go up against the Monroe Group's attorneys. I required the finest divorce attorney I could get. I was not going to walk away with nothing. Jack was the one who destroyed our marriage. Why should I walk away empty-handed? If I had the resources, I'd have him walk away with nothing instead. As far as my father's medical bills were concerned, I did not feel one bit guilty spending Jack's money. My work while we were together had earned Jack millions. My father's hospital bills were a drop in the bucket.

"Which company are you interviewing with?"

"Park Pharmaceuticals."

"You're going back into drug research?"

"Yes. I've been reading up on the latest developments even though I haven't been working. It's what I know best."

"Why didn't you inform me sooner? Come and join my company. I can recommend you."

I laughed. "You always speak badly of your boss. You've called him a tyrant. Do you want me to come and work with you really?"

There was a silence at the other end of the line before a male voice said, "Zara, since when am I a tyrant?"

The voice was weak but laced with malice.

Zara's anxious laughter came through. "Sofia, uh. I've got to go. Let me know how the interview goes. We'll have lunch."

Zara disconnected before I could respond.

I saw the late time and raised an eyebrow. Zara was usually strict about routine. Having a visitor, much less her boss, at this hour was not the usual. I'd have to get the information out of her the next day. I set my phone down and chose a simple light green dress, which was appropriate for the interview. I put the other clothes away, grabbed my pajamas, and headed to the bathroom.

I blow-dried my hair after the shower, completed my skincare routine, and slept.

Meanwhile, in the study.

Jack hesitated before posting anonymously online about seeking advice on winning his wife back after cheating. Comments saying he should divorce and leave her alone infuriated him, and he deleted the post. Just when he was about to sleep, his phone rang. It was a message from Pete.

Chapter 7 CHA 7

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