"If she couldn't find evidence of my affair, she would have made you take the fall. Last time, she had already taken photos of us together and there were rumors. This way, she would have had evidence and a reason not to pay you the remaining amount."
Michael solemnly explained to me.
"When did you find out about my real identity?" I asked, feeling somewhat guilty. "...Why didn't you expose her... and me?"
"I know everything about you, your past and your future," he replied softly, a tone that unnerved me despite its gentleness.
"A business alliance, an embarrassing divorce—it's not good for either of us, especially since... I don't love her."
"Whom do you love then?"
Michael chuckled softly, leaning closer to whisper in my ear, "That's my secret."
His warm breath caressed my neck, prompting an instinctive reflex as I involuntarily recoiled.
The live broadcast on TV continued while I snapped a few photos.
After turning off the TV, I quickly sent the photos to Valerie with a note:
"Sorry, Ms. Wade, I quit. Please transfer the final payment to me within five days."
As I stood up to leave, Michael was quick to grab my arm and pull me into his embrace.