---- Chapter 7 In just a few days, Joel had sprouted strands of gray hair. His unshaven face and haggard eyes made him look like he'd aged a decade overnight. Ishot him a glance, guessing he was here to demand answers after losing his job. "You only had that job because I gave it to you. Taking it back was inevitable." Joel gave an awkward laugh. "I'm not here because of the job." "Oh? Then it's about Rachel? You're upset I sent someone to seduce her?" My gaze turned cold. If he dared say one word in her defense, I'd slap him right then and there. For years, Rachel played with Chloe and me, turning our pain into her private comedy. Now it was her turn to know what it feels like to be used, to carry a child, and then lose everything. ---- Joel flinched, clearly sensing my anger. "Michael and lare the ones who owe her a favor. But you and Chloe don't. If you want revenge, I have no right to stop you. " "Glad you know your place." "Actually... the real reason I came is to apologize. I didn't think you'd still be out doing inspections while being that close to giving birth. "T assumed you were lying. And because of that, everything fell apart." His face was tight with pain, and the guilt in his eyes seemed too real to be fake. I looked at him and said, "It's not just your fault. I was too foolish. You didn't want to help at the company because you feared looking like a freeloader. "And I didn't want my family to resent you, so I kept pushing myself to work harder to protect your pride. I pitied you, and I deserved what I got." Joel's voice was bitter. "Before I came, I had a whole ---- speech planned. But now, all I want to say is... I'm sorry. I didn't cherish you the way I should have." "Theard your apology, but I will never forgive you." I walked past him without a second glance. Just being near him made my skin crawl. He stood there watching me go. His eyes were full of guilt, longing, and regret, but he didn't try to stop me. After that, he found a new job. And every payday, without fail, he spent all his money on me. Sometimes it was mountains of fresh flowers, each bouquet tied with a handwritten card full of regret and longing. Sometimes it was the latest designer jewelry, bags, or clothes. Sometimes it was tickets to concerts he knew I wanted to see. Other times, he cooked meals and delivered them himself. Joel always knew my preferences. We had similar tastes, and his cooking was always just right. Whether it was games, travel, or finance-anything I In the latest episode of ReelTalk, titled "Queen Bee Meets Queen Bee," the infamous Daniela Couso reunites with Sarah Moliski for a buzzworthy discussion. Dive into the world of these legendary villains as they unveil the realities behind their captivating personas. Exploring themes of power, rivalry, and intrigue, this ongoing romance series delves deep into the complexities of characters like Daniela and Sarah. Witness the clash of two formidable personalities as they navigate love, ambition, and deception in a world where nothing is as it seems. What sets this narrative apart is its intricate character dynamics and the magnetic pull between its leading ladies. Experience the allure of forbidden desires and hidden agendas in a story that promises twists at every turn. Ready to uncover the secrets that bind these queens together? Available to read at CrushReel for those eager to unravel the mysteries within.