Chapter 5

When I exited the building, the office was coming to life.

Employees gave me a wide berth, sensing the storm in my demeanor.

Only Ryan Dorsey, Madelyn’s assistant, dared to approach. He trailed me to the parking lot.

When I stopped and turned to face him, he hesitated before speaking. “Mr. Cooper, there’s something I need to tell you. I thought about it all night, and you should know.”

I exhaled deeply, forcing myself to stay calm. “What is it, Ryan?”

He glanced at me nervously, then quickly looked down. “You gave me this job. Without you, I’d be nowhere. Even if I lose it for saying this, I don’t care.”

“What’s going on?” I asked, frowning, placing a reassuring hand on his shoulder.

Ryan finally met my eyes. “Last night, I was working late. I accidentally saw Madelyn…”

He faltered, then handed me his phone. “You’d better see for yourself.”

The photos were explicit—Madelyn, barely clothed, straddling Carter Hayes.

The accompanying video could have been better. The sounds alone turned my stomach.

I chuckled darkly, returning the phone after forwarding the evidence to myself. “Delete everything, Ryan. Make sure she doesn’t find out. And thank you for telling me.”

Ryan nodded, relieved, and left for the office.

Back home, I packed my things—two suitcases were enough for everything I owned.

As I was leaving, my phone rang.

“Evan, I booked a table at your favorite steakhouse. Let’s have dinner tonight,” Madelyn said, her tone unnervingly casual.

My anger flared. “Madelyn, are you deaf? If you want this divorce finalized, I’ll have dinner with you. Otherwise, forget it.”

She paused, then started sobbing softly. “You used to do anything I asked. Now, you won’t even have one meal with me?”

I laughed coldly. “Madelyn, do you think you deserve it?”

Desperation tinged her voice. “Evan, please don’t be angry. Isn’t all this about recognition? Once Carter finishes his project, I’ll announce our breakup and our marriage. Isn’t that enough?”

“No, it’s not. I want nothing more to do with you. You disgust me.”