8
453words
Nathan covered her medical expenses but nothing more.
She went mad and demanded to see him.
He responded, "Claire is no longer part of my life."
She lost it completely, committed to a mental hospital, doomed to a bleak existence.
My experience managing my father's company made work seem effortless, and my career soared.
Nathan loitered outside my office for days, never catching me.
He saw me again outside the meeting room at Apex Enterprises.
He stared, with eyes full of humility.
"Sarah, I ‘ve finally found you."
"I was wrong. I don't deserve to be forgiven. Hate me if you want—at least you'll remember me."
"If Daniel ever mistreats you, come to me for help. I'll always wait…"
I glanced coolly. "Mr. Brooks, regret is too late. No amount of remorse changes anything."
"I, Sarah Collins, can move on. When I say I don't love, I mean it."
"I won't go back on a wrong path."
He paled, his lips trembling and pleading. "It's okay, whatever you want…"
"Are you meeting Apex for a deal?I know their CEO—I can introduce you…"
I cut him off, smiling. "Mr. Brooks, I ‘ve built this life through my own strength."
I walked into the meeting room.
Nathan didn't know we were competing for the same Apex project.
After presenting, as I was leaving, the client stopped me.
"Ms. Collins?"
"Your proposal was refreshing. We've selected you as our partner."
I replied politely, "Thank you for this opportunity!"
Outside, Nathan looked defeated. Seeing me, he hesitated but said nothing, moving to enter.
The client stopped him. "Mr. Brooks, there's no need. We've selected our partner."
Nathan blinked. "Who is it?"
"Ms. Collins."
Daniel took over his family company.
I climbed to the position of general manager.
But Nathan was struggling.
Daniel subtly targeted him, and I outbid Brooks Inc. on multiple projects.
Brooks Inc. began to decline, and Nathan sold most shares to cover losses.
Daniel and I acquired shares from him and others, becoming the largest shareholders.
Nathan was ousted as chairman. I quit my job to take over Brooks Inc.
I expanded its traditional industries while introducing new international ventures.
Brooks Inc. was rebranded as Collins Inc.
The once-bankrupt Collins name regained its former glory.
Daniel and I married at the end of the year.
The wedding was grand, but Daniel cried hysterically.
I teased his nervous breakdown, then spotted a familiar figure in the corner.
Nathan, dressed in plain clothes, no longer carried his former elegance.
His cloudy eyes met mine, filled with regret.
Daniel gently pinched my cheek.
"Who're you looking at?Today, you focus on your husband!"
I laughed and kissed him.
"Jealous much?"
