He hesitated only a moment before nodding. “One month. That’s your deadline.”
I agreed.
.....
When the day came, his driver picked me up. Wilbert walked into the venue with Nivianne on his arm, never leaving her side. He didn’t have to say anything. His eyes ordered me around like I was nothing but his servant.
I clenched my fists and walked onto the stage, forcing my face to stay calm. “I’m here today to apologize to Dr. Nivianne Sloane. What I said before online was a misunderstanding. I’m sorry for the damage I caused.”
The whole hall erupted.
“The nerve of her, smearing a doctor’s name like that.”
“So it was all a lie? I knew she just wanted attention.”
“Poor Dr. Sloane, having to endure this kind of slander.”
“Imagine the shame—dragging herself up here just to beg forgiveness.”
“Wilbert must be furious. No wonder he replaced her.”
People whispered, pointed, accused me of smearing her name. I didn’t explain. I couldn’t. I just wanted to get it over with and leave.
But as I stepped off the stage, Nivianne’s syrupy voice followed me. “Anika, I left something in the car. Can you fetch it for me?”
“No,” I said flatly. “Ask the waiter.”