Devil's Prisoner of Love by Prefer

Chapter 288: Ivy's Folly

Eric watched Aurora's indifferent figure recede, adjusted his glasses, and the corners of his mouth curled into a resigned, bitter smile. If not for the agitation from Julian in the past few days, making him yearn for Aurora with all his heart, he would not have taken such a risky move.

His initial plan had been to exploit their newfound relationship, knowing it might cause her to resent him temporarily, but it would certainly drive a wedge between her and Julian. He thought that, in time, with a bit of manipulation, Aurora accepting him was just a matter of when, not if.

However, he had underestimated one thing: all this was a trap set by Julian to lure him into exposing his own ulterior motives. Now, Aurora knew of his ill intentions.

Just as a first impression can define one's perception, once it's poor, that person might dislike you for life. Damn it, he had been too impatient. But seeing her getting along increasingly well with Julian, how could he not feel rushed? Everything he had built up had crumbled overnight, ending up as a wasted effort.

Aurora had just arrived at the office when a familiar voice exclaimed, "What? You expect me to stay in such a small space? Are you kidding me?"

Several people were in the office, led by Ivy. Yes, she was supposed to start working today, but she hadn't expected her to be assigned to her own office.

Although Grandpa Montgomery had specifically instructed Ivy and Zachary not to reveal their identities and to join the company as ordinary employees for learning, Ivy's frequent appearances made it impossible for everyone not to recognize her. Everyone treated her with the utmost respect, fearful of offending the young heiress.

"Miss Montgomery, you are just an employee and should, by rights, be in that corner. We have specially arranged this window-side spot for you. It's the most spacious spot among us all, and you are the first to bask in the sunlight every day. The view from here is also quite pleasant," the HR manager said obsequiously, nodding and bowing excessively in front of her. Everyone knew the president doted on this precious daughter. Her role as a minor employee was probably meant to give her a taste of life. "How would outsiders know what's happening with the Montgomery family? They still think Ivy is very important, treating her as if she were a princess."

"View the scenery? Am I here on vacation?" Ivy snorted coldly.

"Miss Montgomery, our office is only this big. If not here, should you go to that corner?" the HR manager replied helplessly.

to stay there," Ivy pointed at Aurora's

You're just a regular employee; it wouldn't be

she'll definitely be upset," others in the office chimed in, buzzing with

chairman. If I just mention it to them, what's so hard about

had already been sent off for testing, and soon their identities would be exposed. Despite this, they

shouldn't go there, Miss

mine now. What are you all standing around for? Move my things in!" Ivy

big talker, aren't you? I want to see how this room is yours," a woman's

others improved slightly. Ivy didn't know why, but

it was her voice or her presence,

as she stood there in a black and white sheath dress that hugged her perfect figure and curves, her makeup impeccable and her presence

was dressed in a

fell at the sight of Aurora, haunted by the memory of how

my department, please address me as 'Manager' like everyone

once arrogant woman seemed insignificant in her presence, and everyone else felt an impulse to

get an office to yourself?" Ivy complained,

her arrival, while they were merely minor employees,