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333words
Something in her words changed Ethan’s mood.His face iced over.
“Jessica’s not worth that price.”
Rachel didn’t react,but Ryan react strongly,grabbing Ethan’s shoulders.“Ethan!She’s dangling off a cliff!”
“Still playing tough?Who sped here like a maniac,making me feel carsick?If she falls,you’ll regret it and take it out on us!”
“What’s with you two?You have mouths but can’t talk?Always dancing around?”
“Fine,I’ll say it!”
“Ethan,what’s your problem?Her lying?Bull!You knew she was faking—someone raised around luxury can spot a fake!”
“In college,she nearly got caught,and you covered for her!”
My eyes widened in shock.
What was Ryan saying?
“And you’re hung up on her miscarrying of my kid?It was yours!I’ve got my own partner!”
“She couldn’t let go,dragging it out until six months,crying her eyes out in London!”
“And you,Jessica,you ran when exposed?Ethan cleaned up your mess—none of those photos or videos leaked.”
“He nearly searched my place thoroughly looking for you!”
Ryan,like a machine gun,spoke nonstop,then slumped,panting,tugging Ethan’s pant leg.
“What’re you waiting for?Pay!”
Ethan reacted quickly,speaking fast.“Rachel,don’t do anything rash.Money’s ready—I’ll wire it now.”
Ryan muttered,“Knew it!Had the cash but act tough.”
I hung my head,face burning.
He…knew I was lying?
Before I could process,a faint crack sounded.
I felt a sinking feeling in my stomach.No time to think—the cliff gave way.
As I fell,Ryan’s scream echoed.
I was swallowed by the waves.My last thought was Ethan’s face.
I had a long dream.
In high school,a rich girl cornered me in the school bathroom,accusing me of stealing her money.
I was a top student,close to teachers, and well-liked.
I stood up straight,demanding proof.
She shrugged,smirking.“Don’t need proof.”
“Why bother when I can ruin you?”
It was laughable.
But absurdly,no classmate defended me.
Even teachers I trusted hinted,“Jessica,you’re bright.You’ll get into college regardless.”
I took the blame,losing my scholarship.
I later learned her family had modest wealth—which was nothing compared to the wealth at our Ivy League.
But it was enough to crush me.
