Chapter 18 A Sudden Surge of Justice Stella had just wrapped up her audition . She had expected thunderous applause , but all she got was a few scattered claps - and even those faded quickly into an awkward silence . The director's expression was far from pleased . Davina and Ryan turned to the audition stage . Davina had caught a glimpse of Stella's performance earlier and wasn't impressed . The role was supposed to be a straightforward doctor , but Stella showed up in full glam , makeup flawless , and even her white coat looked like it was tailor - made for her . Everything about her screamed , Lookathouwgorgeous I am , rather than , ' wheretosavelives . She didn't look like a doctor - she looked like someone role - playing in a costume drama . The director frowned and commented , " Way too many dramatic gestures . And tell me , what r white coat like that ? Do you think our audience is blind ?" Stella's cheeks flushed red from the sharp comment , but her eyes sparkled with defiance . real doctor wears a tailored Her assistant leaned in and whispered , " Director , Ms. Summer is connected to the investors ; both the Summers and the Holts are major investors ." The director's face turned grim The assistant smiled and turned to Stella. " Ms. Summer , please head to the lounge and wait for further instructions . " Stella nodded , confident the role was hers anyway . But as she turned , her gaze landed on Davina and Ryan standing together - and her face changed . She walked straight over . " Pyan , what happened to your face ?" she asked , her tone sharp Ryan's cold eyes darted toward Davina . " Have you lost your mind ? " Stella snapped , disbelief written all over her face , Davina , however , smiled sweetly . " Mr. Holt here tried to take advantage of me . I just defended myself . " Ryan's face turned ashen , and he roared , " What nonsense are you spouting ?! " Davina lifted her hand , wearing a look of hurt , her voice sugary . " Look , he even left red marks on my wrist . Everyone around saw it " A crowd was beginning to gather . Stella scoffed as if it was a joke . " He tried to take advantage of you ? Are you kidding me ? I know you've had a crush on Ryan . but do you really think this is the way to win him over ? That's just - gross ." Everyone knew that they had been engaged for over a year . So naturally , the gossip was getting juicier by the second . And just then , a man walked toward them with confident , long strides . Stella looked up - and froze . The man's face , his aura - everything about him stole her breath away . The man walked right up and punched Ryan square in the face . 1/2 404 PM +5 Free Coins Chapter 18 A Sudden Surge of Justice Ryan stumbled back several steps , lost his balance , and landed hard on the floor . Gasps rippled through the crowd with the twist of the event . Davina looked up at the man who had just thrown the punch . Even from the back , his broad shoulders , trim waist , and long legs formed the kind of figure sculptors dreamed about . He looked strangely familiar , Stella stood there , stunned . " You … you're Jude Wilson . " She'd only seen him once , from afar , at a private auction . Online , there were barely any photos of him , let alone details . But the rumors about him were endless . Ryan struggled to his feet , his face dark with rage and ready to get his revenge , until he saw who it was . Jude ? " He blurted out , disbelief flashing in 1 his eyes . Jude calmly adjusted his sleeve and said coolly , " I just saw Ryan harassing this young lady with my own eyes . Guess my sense of justice kicked in Everyone gawked at him , speechless . Davina was equally tongue - tied .. " I've always been a man of justice , " Jude added , slowly turning toward Davina . A sly smirk tugged at his lips , laced with danger . By now , anyone with even a hint int of influence recognized who he was . And when he spoke , people couldn't help but twitch at the corners of their mouths Did he actuallybelievethatline ! Jude was known throughout high society and the corporate world as a ruthless powerhouse . And to think he'd just decked Ryan in public like that ? No one else would have dared to save him . Oh , and that girl stood next to him . 2/2 Title: Contracted CEO Husband Regrets On Divorce Eve In "Contracted CEO Husband Regrets On Divorce Eve" by CrushReel, a unique romance unfolds between two individuals bound by a marriage contract yet estranged for years. Just as divorce seems imminent, unexpected connections spark between them, leading to a twist of fate. Within this modern romance novel, the protagonists navigate the complexities of their contracted relationship and the uncharted territory of rediscovering each other. As they delve into their past and present, themes of love, regret, and second chances intertwine with the fast-paced world of CEOs and office dynamics. What sets this story apart is the magnetic pull between characters from different worlds, drawing readers into a captivating tale of unlikely love. The sweet romance between the contract lovers adds a layer of intrigue to this office-based narrative filled with twists and turns. Experience the unfolding drama of "Contracted CEO Husband Regrets On Divorce Eve" on CrushReel, where love defies expectations and hearts find their way back together. Available to read online at CrushReel for those seeking a heartfelt journey through the realms of modern romance and office intrigue.