From Neglected Wife to CEO’s Obsession novel Chapter 83

That fever looks pretty serious.

Mike was down on one knee, out of breath and not even trying to be polite. “Mrs. Swanson, Mr. Swanson spent the whole night in the rain looking for you. He’s burning up with a fever, but he insisted on waiting here just to make sure you were safe. Whatever’s going on between you two, can’t you talk it out at home? Did you really have to embarrass him in front of everyone? He’s done so much for you. If you’re not touched by it, I am. Honestly, it’s hard to watch.”

My eyes went cold, and my voice followed.

“Mike, you know you shouldn’t jump to conclusions when you don’t know the whole story. Whatever’s happening between Remy and me, that’s our business, not yours. You don’t get to butt in, and you definitely don’t get to judge me. And please, spare me the talk about sacrifice. If he’s given so much, do you think I haven’t? If his efforts make you feel bad, what about mine? Should I just pretend they never happened? Take your boss and leave, or I’ll call security.”

Mike pressed his lips together, called another guy over, and together they carried Remy out.

With that mess out of the way, it was time to deal with the one inside.

I walked straight over to the group who’d been the loudest. Two of the smarter ones took one look at me and slipped away.

The rest stayed, acting tough, totally clueless that they were just being used.

I circled around them, half-smiling. “You’ve all been at Elite Tech long enough. Since you’re so interested in my personal life, I’m sure you also know what happens when someone spreads lies around here. You’ve got brains—try using them for once, instead of letting someone else play you.”

Only sharp people last at Elite Tech.

The ones left exchanged nervous glances, already looking like they wanted out.

“Avery, is that really how you talk to your manager?”

I just smiled and took a step closer, totally at ease.

He was huge, and even though he was overweight, he was still tall. With my injured foot in flats, I had to look up to meet his eyes. Annoying.

If I couldn’t win by height, I’d win by presence.

“John, you talk about attitude and harmony, but all I’ve done is state the facts. I haven’t lied or raised my voice. My attitude is just fine. So tell me—what exactly do you mean by ‘attitude’?”