7
477words
"Sorry for the spectacle, folks. Treat it as an unexpected gala skit. Eat and have a good time. Bonuses are doubled this year, thanks to Emma!"
Applause erupted. I was puzzled.
"Mrs. Reed, I just protected myself—no big deal."
Sophia shook her head. and her eyes were a bit watery.
"Emma, thank you."
She handed me a contract.
"This is 5% of the company's shares. It's a gift. You're no longer my assistant but my partner!"
I gaped. In this life, I not only cleared my name but also gained shares.. It was more than I ever thought possible.
"Thank you,Mrs.Reed.It's what I should do."
Back home, Chloe called.
"Emma, I'm sorry. Daniel beat me into the hospital. Can you lend me money for the bills?"
She was crying, but I didn't feel sorry for her at all. I hung up on her, packed my things, and left the apartment we used to share. I rented a small place near my work. I was really happy to be living alone.
Sophia sued Daniel and Chloe, and the company they were working with. They each faced millions in damages. Daniel was kicked out of Reed Enterprises, got divorced, and left penniless.
He moved back into our old apartment with Chloe. Rumor had it he beat her and forced her to earn money. They were both hounded by creditors and had a really miserable life.
I became a shareholder, my role elevated, and I was doing really well. But I knew Chloe wouldn't quit. Just as I thought, a month later, she cornered me.
After work, she blocked me in the parking lot.
"Emma, I'm like this because of you. You'll pay!"
Gone was her old glamour. Her face was bruised from Daniel's beatings. I just laughed at her.
"Chloe, blaming me? Your schemes got you here. You deserve it—what's it to me?"
She screamed and unhinged.
"It's all your fault! Why do you have everything? I framed you because I wanted your life!" "Now Daniel forces me into shameful work, my parents demand money and you're living well? No. Emma, I won't let you win. If I'm in hell, I'm dragging you with me!"
Her eyes turned vicious, and she took out a knife and started walking towards me.
"Chloe, are you insane?"
She smiled in a really creepy way.
"Yeah, I'm crazy.I'll make you suffer!"
As she got closer with the knife, I took out pepper spray from my bag and sprayed her. I knew she'd try something, so I was ready.
"Argh…Emma, you bitch, you'll rot!"
"You're the one who is going to jail! I've called the cops—you're done!"
When she heard "jail", she ran away. Her eyes were stinging, and she didn't see a car speeding towards her.
