Chapter 5

"Thought you were so devoted, turns out you’re just a fickle woman."

I looked over, it was Hugo.

One of Gideon’s bad company from the bars.

He was the one who started the bet at last night’s gathering.

Bet that I’d be a doormat for Gideon for life.

Too bad, it was his quickest loss.

Because right after the bet, I flipped the table, splashed the drinks, and dumped him.

I glanced at him with disgust, about to speak.

Asher placed me behind him, shielding me completely.

He coldly warned:

"Sir, watch your mouth."

Hugo saw his face and was shocked.

"Why is Mr. Asher here?"

I remembered the Hugo family had a project hoping to collaborate with Asher’s company.

Hugo extended his hand to shake.

Asher didn’t even spare a glance.

"Tell Mr. Hugo, there’s no need to seek collaboration with Asher’s group anymore."

He said, leading me inside.

I turned back, seeing Hugo’s face turn from green to white.

It felt amazing.

I looked at him with disgust, just about to say something.

Asher stepped in front of me, completely shielding me. He warned coldly, "Sir, watch your words."

Hugo was taken aback upon seeing Asher's face. "Why is Mr. Gu here?"

I remembered the Xue family was seeking a collaboration with Gu Corporation. Hugo extended a hand for a handshake, but Asher didn't even look at him.

"Go back and tell Mr. Xue there's no need to pursue a partnership with Gu Corporation anymore." With that, Asher put his arm around my waist and led me inside.

I turned my head to see Hugo's face turn pale, then flush with anger. It was immensely satisfying.

After a blood test and gastroscopy, I sat on a bench in the corridor. Asher was discussing the details with the doctor. As the sunlight streamed in, I felt drowsy.

I wasn't sure how much time had passed when he came out of the office.

"How is it? How many more days do I have left?" I asked.

Asher frowned, a hint of helplessness in his eyes. "Let's go eat."

Still a bit dazed, I was led to a restaurant. It only felt real once I sat at the table. Asher casually ordered the food and even arranged the utensils for me. I had always done such things for Gideon. No one had ever treated me like this before.

And Asher didn't owe me anything. It was then I realized that kindness and goodwill don't require debts.

After eating, he drove me back to my apartment complex.

"Thank you, Mr. Gu."

He sat in the car, turning to look at me with those deep, mesmerizing dark eyes. His lips curved slightly as he nodded, "Message me every day after you take your medicine."

Startled for a moment, I nodded with a smile. "As long as Mr. Gu doesn't find me troublesome."

He watched me silently, emotions deep in his eyes. "I won't."

A slight warmth filled my heart. Suddenly, the idea of continuing to live didn't seem so bad.

After saying goodbye to Asher, I turned to walk toward my building.

A figure emerged from behind the wall, grabbing my wrist and slamming me against the wall. The familiar smell of alcohol overwhelmed me, making me nauseous. I pushed hard, but he wouldn't budge. I kicked him.

"Gideon, are you out of your mind?!"

His face was cold, eyes bloodshot. He spoke through clenched teeth, "Phoebe, how can you get involved with other men?"

"Are you that desperate and shameless? Am I not enough for you? Huh?!"

As he said this, he gripped my jaw, trying to lower his head to kiss me. A wave of revulsion and nausea hit me. I kicked him hard, then slapped him across the face.