When Love Becomes a Cage by Nora

Chapter 24

Chapter 24



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Clyde's words hit me like a freight train. After all these years together, he knew what strings to pull, leaving no room for excuses.

I forced my eyes wide open, fighting back tears and refusing to let my eyes redden, especially not before him and Kayla. I didn't want to show weakness.

I nodded and left the office without another word in the end. Clyde was right. I had no say in the matters of the Patterson Group, and I certainly couldn't speak on its behalf.

Everyone knew I was the unwanted Mrs. Patterson, and my promises were worth only as much as I could personally uphold. But I had to take responsibility for this mess. I owed Jake an explanation.

When I arrived at his office, Jake smashed a coffee mug on the floor right before me. The mug shattered with a loud snap.

"Melanie, this isn't how we handle things. Do you know how much I've had to adjust our production schedule for the Patterson Group project?" Jake exploded. "Now you're pulling the rug out from under me? Is this your way of saying you don't want to work with me?"

I was at a loss for words. The Patterson Group had decided to go with Apex Group, leaving no room for a deal with Jake. I kept apologizing, trying to calm his anger.

But Jake was livid, standing up abruptly and shoving me toward the door.

then I saw the shock in Jake's eyes. "Melanie, Ms.

gently touched my nose and saw blood on my hand, momentarily

yelled, "Call

him I was okay. It was probably just a side effect of some medication.

didn't lose consciousness entirely. I was vaguely aware of people lifting me onto a stretcher, chaotic footsteps around

came

by my bed. Seeing me awake,

are you feeling?" Mrs. Stone looked genuinely

and immediately apologized, "I'm so sorry, Mr. Stone. I couldn't secure the deal, and

go. I know it's not your fault. You've had it rough."

a significant contract would upset anyone. It was more than just a

Stone gave me a glass

reaction to the medication, but they didn't specify which one. Jake already called Mr. Patterson, but his secretary

sympathy. I got the message loud and

hadn't shown up. He probably wouldn't come at all. Either Kayla hadn't mentioned my situation to him, or he

Stone, my

contacts

I

I had previously

Ret

them. They're very interested in working with your company. Lkriow this mishap with the Patterson Group is