Chapter 3

3

I was about to turn off my phone when Marcus called.

"I sent you an address. I'll pick you up in a bit. I have a surprise for you."

I felt a bitter smirk tugging at my lips. He had already given me enough surprises to last a lifetime.

Before I could say no, he hung up. I guess I was finally off the block list.

I took my meds and cleaned my wound. By the time I finished, his car was downstairs.

I walked out wearing a simple tracksuit and no makeup. Marcus's eyes darkened the moment he saw me.

"You didn't get ready? Are you trying to embarrass me? Look in the mirror, Aria. You look like a damn hobo."

The passenger window rolled down. Kinsley was sitting there, wearing a custom designer dress Marcus had once made for me.

She gave me a bright, youthful smile.

"I'm so sorry, Mr. Sterling! I forgot to tell Aria about the dress code... I couldn't get a hold of her."

I thought about the blocked account and smiled thinly. "It's fine. Given our relationship, my appearance shouldn't affect you anymore."

"Besides, having such a young and pretty secretary is proof enough of your success."

Marcus choked on his next insult. I looked at Kinsley, who showed no intention of moving. I just climbed into the back seat.

The whole way there, Kinsley tried to chat with me. She kept gushing about the birthday party the staff threw for her.

She sounded so disappointed. "Aria, you should have been there! You need to see how much Marcus pampers his staff. I'm so jealous of you!"

Marcus looked uneasy. He tried to start a conversation with me through the rearview mirror several times, but I ignored him.

When we got to the hotel, Kinsley hopped out and grabbed Marcus's arm. I followed behind them.

The waiters clearly thought they were the couple. Marcus looked like he wanted to explain, but after looking at my tired face, he stayed silent.

The office staff was waiting by the elevators. When the doors opened and they saw Marcus with Kinsley, the atmosphere turned awkward.

Caleb Vance, a major shareholder and my best friend from college, broke the silence.

"Aria! You're finally here. We wouldn't have signed that big contract without your connections. The whole company owes you a drink today!"

He was trying to save my pride. I gave him a grateful look.

"Don't call me boss, Caleb. Who knows what my title will be once I get back from abroad."

Marcus stopped in his tracks. He turned around, his eyes filled with confusion.

"Abroad? You're leaving the country? Why didn't I know about this? Since when did I agree to that?"