Never Again Yours (Isadora and Magnus)

Chapter 35

Isadora had barely stepped out of the hallway when she saw Richard emerging from his office, flanked by several executives and secretaries. They'd all heard Pearl's shrill scream and come out to see what was going on.

Glancing over her shoulder, Isadora caught sight of Pearl, fists clenched, looking like she was ready to lunge at her. An idea flashed through Isadora's mind; she put on her best frightened act and darted behind Richard for protection.

"Dad, Dad, I don't know what's gotten into Pearl-she just tried to hit me out of nowhere! Please, you have to help me!"

"You little brat, Isadora! Don't run! I swear I'll smash your face in today!" Pearl screeched, charging forward.

But she'd come barrelling out of the stairwell so fast that she didn't realize how many people were watching until it was too late to stop. Dripping wet and reeking of sour milk tea, she made quite the spectacle-a fact not lost on Richard, who prided himself on appearances more than anything.

His voice rang out, stern and sharp. "Pearl, have you lost your mind? Enough! This is your workplace-get ahold of yourself!"

Pearl stared at Isadora, who was cowering behind Richard, playing the damsel in distress. Rage burned hotter in her chest. Sniffling, she jabbed an accusatory finger at her stepsister and shouted, "Dad, this isn't my fault! Isadora spilled coffee all over me, then pulled a cup of milk tea straight out of the trash-"

Pearl overreacted and thought I'd put him up to it.

timidly. "Mr. Vaughan, I swear, I didn't mean to

liar, Isadora!" Pearl shrieked. "You're making this up! Dad, don't

by the commotion, and Richard's scowl only deepened. “That's enough, both of you. Pearl, this is an office, not a playground. You

designer bags, no Chanel, no shopping sprees in the city. She swallowed her anger, forcing

standing nearby, smirked. Oh, so you know how to

now, the

hear. Family squabbles were a nuisance, but as

a ten

strode off with the executives to the conference room. The

fanned the air. “Pearl, you reek. If