chapter358

The spotlight belonged to Atlas. On stage, he delivered an eloquent speech, his voice smooth as he thanked the clients who had supported him through the years. I stared at his handsome face, my heart heavy with a growing sense of loss I struggled to contain.

A server leaned in, whispering softly, “Ms. Chloe, someone is waiting for you on the rooftop.”

The server disappeared back into the crowd before I could ask for a name. I looked around skeptically, but everyone was mesmerized by the dazzling man on stage. Who could possibly be looking for me?

Quietly, I slipped away and found the staircase leading directly to the rooftop. The area had been transformed into an elegant open garden for the evening, designed for private conversations away from the bustling atmosphere below. Because of the main event, the rooftop was mostly deserted.

As I stepped into the garden, the night air was cool, but I didn't see a soul. I scanned the shadows, searching for whoever had summoned me, but the space remained empty.

Then, I heard the rhythmic click of heels. I spun around to find Harmony walking gracefully toward me.

She was undeniably one of the night’s main attractions—the host’s date, shining brightly at Atlas’s side. But as she approached, her expression shifted. The polite mask she had worn in my office the other day was gone, replaced by a cold, arrogant smirk.

“What is it?” she asked sharply. “What did you want to talk to me about?”

I frowned, genuinely puzzled. “I called for you? I was told you were the one waiting for me.”

“What? Don’t play games with me,” she snapped, her irritation flaring. “Chloe, I know exactly what’s on your mind. You can act indifferent all you want, but I’m not a fool. I know what you truly desire—and I know you’re desperate for Atlas.”

A few more guests strolled into the garden area, but Harmony didn't lower her voice.

“Stop pretending. Acting isn’t your strong suit, and don’t forget—I’m a professional. I didn't gain my popularity by being oblivious. I was the one who supported Atlas through his most difficult times. Don’t think for a second that a ‘similar face’ is enough to confuse his judgment. It won’t work. No one can change his mind. For my sake, he even rejected his family’s demands for an arranged marriage.”

I offered a scornful smile, almost admiring the sheer delusion of her confidence.

“Chloe, stop pretending to be calm. Just let go and focus on your little business. That is your true path—stay in your lane.”

I was amazed by her sudden shift in persona. This wasn't the Harmony I knew; she had gained a sudden, fierce confidence, as if she were backed by some immense, invisible power.

I took a deep breath. “Ms. Harmony, you’re overthinking things. If you’re so sure of your place at his side, focus on being a good partner instead of wasting your breath on me. These empty words mean nothing. And for the record—I was called up here by a server. I didn't summon you. You should get your facts straight before you start an argument.”

I turned away, having no intention of lingering. Whatever validation she thought she had received didn't concern me, and I wasn't about to give her the satisfaction of a reaction. But as I turned, I felt a wave of cold bitterness wash over me.

“What’s the matter, Chloe? Dissatisfied with the truth?” Harmony’s tone turned harsh, almost jagged. “You called me up here to say something, didn’t you? Why pretend to be aloof now? Are you just embarrassed that you got caught?”

I looked at her coldly. “Calling you foolish would be a compliment. I clearly overestimated your intelligence. Don’t be so eager to show off—I’m truly not interested in anything you have to say.”

“What did you say?” A flash of genuine anger flickered in Harmony’s eyes.

She took a menacing step toward me, but just as she moved, the heavy stage setup behind her suddenly groaned and began to tilt downward...