His Perfect Trap, My Perfect Revenge

Chapter 6

Chelsea emptied her stomach until there was nothing left, then slumped against the bathroom wall, exhausted. She caught her reflection in the mirror—hair tangled, makeup smudged, eyes red and swollen. A bitter laugh escaped her lips.

What am I even crying over? The three years wasted on him? Or the stupid hope that Magnus might actually have a heart?

She'd known this "celebration" was a setup. Some naive part of her had still hoped he'd spare her dignity after everything. But no.

One last glance at her ruined reflection, and the dam broke. Tears she'd been holding back spilled over.

With a shaky breath, she wiped her face, fixed her smudged makeup, and straightened her dress. Then, head high, she walked out—straight into another private room.

The moment the door opened, a smooth voice greeted her.

"There you are, Miss Schneider. I was starting to think you'd stood me up."

She forced a polite smile. "My apologies, Mr. Malcom. Something came up. To make it up to you, I'll drink three glasses as penance." She reached for a glass, but Alaric stopped her with a light touch.

"No need for that. A gentleman knows how to wait." His smile was easy, disarming. "Let's discuss business first."

He slid a contract across the table, gesturing for her to sit.

Years ago, they'd crossed paths at a gala. She remembered him—even after his family moved their empire overseas. Now, he was back, and not just anyone: Alaric Malcom, head of the Malcom Corporation.

She'd only learned of his return last night. With her father's overseas deals stalled—and this very KTV under the Malcom name—she'd taken a shot. She hadn't expected him to agree so fast, let alone be this accommodating.

The meeting went smoothly. But just as Alaric offered to drive her home, trouble showed up at the KTV entrance.

"Oh my God, Chelsea! We've been looking everywhere for you!" Sabrina's shrill voice cut through the air as she latched onto Chelsea's arm. "You vanished after the bathroom! Everyone's worried—come on, they're waiting!"

Chelsea didn't budge. "Go back without me. I'm leaving."

She tried to pull free, but Sabrina clung tighter. "Don't be like that! We were just messing around earlier. Don't ruin the night!"

This time, Alaric intervened. Gently but firmly, he guided Chelsea to his side. "Miss," he said, tone cool, "she's made her choice clear."

Sabrina finally looked at him—and her tone instantly sweetened. "Oh! Mr. Malcom! It's just a silly misunderstanding. We wanted to apologize."

She reached for Chelsea again, but Magnus appeared without warning. Wordlessly, he grabbed Chelsea's wrist and yanked her against him.

Alaric tensed but held his tongue.

Sabrina beamed. "Just a lovers' quarrel, Mr. Malcom! They'll patch things up. You must be busy—we won't keep you."

Before he could respond, she swung open his car door like a dismissal.