From Betrayal to Brilliance Her Rise to a New Life novel Chapter 270

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Chapter 270 Don’t Go

When Zaden’s voice faded, the room went completely silent. Athena didn’t answer or open the door. Zaden darted his eyes.

“Alright,” he said quietly. “I’ll head out first. Call me if you need anything.”

Inside the room, Athena lowered her gaze at his words.

He’s probably leaving with Maya, isn’t he?

A bitter smile crossed her face. She told herself to stay calm. At least Zaden hadn’t tried to play both sides. He was giving her a way to walk away with some dignity.

She took a deep breath, pushed her emotions down, and began packing her things.

Tonight, she would leave the villa.

It was hilarious. She had just moved in. After two days, she was already packing up again, like a guest who never really belonged.

Athena didn’t have much to take. In about an hour, she had everything neatly packed. Besides this room, she had nothing else in the house, which made things easier.

She ended up with one suitcase and a small bag of odds and ends.

The new toiletries she had bought would have to stay behind.

Once everything was ready, she opened the door and started to pull her suitcase out. A pair of strong hands reached out and gripped on the suitcase.

Startled, Athena looked up. It was Zaden.

H–he’s still here?

Didn’t he just say he’s leaving? Did he say that to make me drop my guard and wait for her to come out?

Athena stood there, speechless.

When Zaden saw the suitcase in Athena’s hand, his face darkened. “It’s late,” he said sharply. “Where are you going?”

Athena took a slow breath, forcing herself to stay calm. “I told you earlier,” she replied. “My company has employee housing. I’ve already signed the papers, and I’m moving in tonight.”

She hadn’t expected things to move this fast, but it didn’t matter.

Athena didn’t want to argue and didn’t want to become another woman who begged or screamed.

After what happened with Lewis, she’d learned something painful but true. When a man stops loving you, there’s no reason, no excuse.

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Chapter 270 Don’t Go

And even if there is, it’s only one he makes tip to ease his guilt.

So why ask? Why cling? Better to walk away with her dignity intact.

Finished

But before she could take another step. Zaden grabbed her suitcase, holding it still. It wouldn’t budge an inch. “Can you let go?” she asked quietly.

“If I let go,” he said, his voice low, “you’ll run.”

Athena stared at him, not knowing what to say. If he was getting back together with Maya, why wouldn’t he let me leave?

Is this about Teri?

She bit her lip and said, “Don’t worry. I’ll take care of Teri just like before. If you and Maya are reconciling, you don’t have to worry about this.”

Zaden’s eyes darkened. Without warning, he stepped closer–too close. Then he lowered his head and kissed her.

Athena had always thought Zaden was going to get back together with Maya. When he suddenly tried to kiss her, every part of her resisted.

She pushed him hard and snapped, “What are you doing? Aren’t you worried about Maya? If you two are getting back together, then stop doing this!”

Zaden stumbled back slightly, the kiss never landing.

But even then, he didn’t let go of her hand. His brows tightened, and his voice dropped low. “I’m not getting back with Maya,” he said firmly. “And I never planned to.”

“Is that right?” Athena’s voice was cold. “Because she certainly seems confident about getting you back. The way she carries herself, it feels like she’s already won. Zaden, I thought you were different from Lewis. Don’t in de me lose the respect I have for you.”

The moment Athena compared him to Lewis, Zaden’s expression darkened.

His brows drew together, and a flicker of anger flashed in his eyes.

He was different than Lewis. Not even close. He would never lie to Athena. He would never cheat or play both sides.

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