fool

Chapter 5 

Jaden got into the car, a smirk on his lips, amused that Ella wanted to discuss cooperation with him. 

Viouna Club, a playground for the rich and bored elite, buzzed with neon lights, laughter, and music. 

As Ella stepped in, all eyes turned to her. Her long hair cascaded over her shoulders, matched with a sleek black dress that highlighted her glowing skin. With her stunning beauty and allure, she could carry off any style. 

Despite her appeal, no one dared approach her, knowing her longstanding infatuation with Harry. Her reputation kept admirers at bay, unwilling to risk rejection. 

“Why would someone so stunning go after a guy like Harry!” 

“Did you hear? Harry left her at the engagement party, but she’s still planning the wedding. Isn’t she worried he might bail on the big day?” 

“She’s about to embarrass herself again, but it looks like she didn’t give a damn” 

Ignoring the gossip, Ella focused on her goal persuading Denison Group’s boss to partner with Willow Group. She reached the private room and took a deep breath before knocking. 

“Come in please,” a deep, sexy voice replied. 

Inside, a man lounged on a leather sofa, holding a glass of red wine, his legs crossed casually. The shifting light danced around him, casting shadows over his face. 

“Hi, I’m Ella Willow, General Manager of Willow Group. May I ask how you prefer to be addressed?” she asked politely. 

“My last name is White, he replied, sitting up slightly. 

Ella caught her breath at the sight of his face. Sears from burns marked his features, giving him an almost intimidating appearance. The scars continued down his neck, leaving only his eyes untouched–sharp and penetrating 

As Ella assessed Jaden, he was also studying her, his gaze lingering on her chest. He smirked, noticing that she wore a tight black dress that accentuated her curves, revealing just enough to tantalize. 

Jaden smirked. 

“Mr. White, I’d like to discuss a partnership.” Ella said, forcing a smile. 

“Your team already pitched me your proposal. Frankly, it didn’t impress me. I’ve got a better choice. Jaden replied. 

“If you weren’t interested in Willow Group, you wouldn’t have agreed to this meeting, right? Ella smiled, feeling her confidence return. 

She knew her looks were a strong advantage. In Ardbert City, she was considered one of the most beautiful women and admired by many. Several influencers and minor celebrities had even undergone surgery to resemble her. 

“Willow Group has a unique edge that others lack,” she added. 

After a moment’s pause, she continued. “That’s me, no doubt,” She moved closer, refilling his wine glass and adjusting her dress to tease, revealing more of her thighs. It was a bold move, but she was willing to risk it for Willow Group’s future. 

Jaden was annoyed by her audacious behavior. “You’re quite forward,” he said, swiftly flipping her onto the sofa and holding her hands, guiding 

them to touch his scarred face. 

Fear and disgust coursed through her, but she kept her cool. She had anticipated this. Late night meetings in exclusive clubs often had strings attached. But for the sake of Willow Group, she had to endure it 

She didn’t want to disappoint her grandpa or give others a reason to mock her. So, without resistance, she chuckled. 

“What are you laughing at?“ Jaden asked, tightening his grip. 

“I wonder if you’d turn down any woman, but I should probably give you a heads–up first, Mr. White. You must’ve heard the rumors about me. Everyone in Ardbert City knows I’ve been chasing after Harry, making a fool of myself. Despite being seen as beautiful, no one approaches me- they find me repulsive. I’m just seen as a pretty face, a useless onument, hopelessly love–addled,” she said, tapping her temple. 

“Anyone who associates with me risks tarnishing their reputation. If I spend the night with you, people will say even the Denison Group’s boss settles for Harry’s leftover trash the said with reckless abandon 

Jaden’s eyes narrowed. He had spotted Harry’s personal belongings in her bedroom, including his underwear and toothbrush, Indicating he had 

Chapter 5 

stayed the night. 

“So, you’re aware of your reputation?” he sneered, squeezing her chin tightly, causing her pain. 

Ella winced, tears welling up, but she forced herself to maintain a defiant smile, her eyes shining with determination. “Yes, I’m a woman of easy virtues. Are you interested?” she shot back, her heart heavy. For the sake of Willow Group’s future, she was willing to endure this indignity. 

Jaden fumed at her response. “Who do you think you are to negotiate with me! Get out! 

He shoved her roughly, and she staggered, crashing to the floor. Despite the carpet, her knees throbbed with pain. 

After a brief silence, she stood up a 

and faced him calmly. I heard you’re planning to launch a local clothing brand to rival foreign ones. You’re in need of a top designer, right” 

“What’s your point?” Jaden asked, his tone icy. 

“A Veilish designer just won the fashion world’s Oscar. Every major brand is after her. I can introduce you, Ella said confidently. This was her trump card. She had done her homework. The Rhys family and Denison Group were both keen to snag this designer to elevate their brands 

Jaden remained impassive, so she pressed on. I can persuade her to work for you without pay for three years. 

“Can you pull that off?” Jaden asked skeptically, 

“Yes, I can. She’s my best friend. She’s still overseas, but when she returns, I 

I’ll make the introduction. We can sign a contract with hefty penalties if I fail to come through, Ella replied confidently. 

ཏུ ཞ ཤ  ོཎྜ རྟ ཆ་F་བཟོ་ 

Jaden pondered for a moment, rubbing his temples, then finally agreed with a curt “Fine.” 

Ella breathed a sigh of relief as she handed over the prepared contract, eagerly watching him sign. Finally, she confirmed his name: Marcus White. 

“Thanks, Mr. White Ella said, clutching the contract to her chest. “If that’s all I be on my way” Sensing no need to stay, she quickly left the room. 

Jaden’s expression chilled as he watched Ella leave. Moments later, several attractive girls appeared at the door, “Who sent you?” he asked, his face hardening 

“Ms. Willow asked us to hang out with you, the lead girl stammered, visibly intimidated by Jaden’s scarred visage. 

“Get out!” Jaden snapped, fists clenched in anger. 

The girls fled in terror. 

Alone with his assistant, Jaden took off his lifelike mask and tossed it away. “Let’s slowly take over Willow Group. Ella makes me sick.” 

His assistant hesitated. “But Ms. Willow is your wife.” 

Under Jaden’s piercing glare, the assistant quickly responded, “Cor it, Sir.” 

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