The cost

Elizabeth scowled at her phone, watching the likes and comments on her post pile up. A wicked smile curled on her lips when she thought, “Just wait and see, Mia. I’ll make sure you’re humiliated ten times over

Just then, a private message pinged on her screen, catching her attention. Elizabeth’s eyes lit up with curiosity. She tapped it open, eager to see what was inside.

Kris: Do you know Mia!]

Crack: [Why? Planning to defend that bitch?]

At Reed Villa, Kirsten glowered at her phone. ConTEent bel0ngs to Nôv(e)lD/rama(.)Org .

She’d hoped that by spreading the barbecue shop video, she’d knock Mia off her pedestal. But Matthew’s unexpected defense of Mia had thrown a wrench into her plans.

Reading this malicious post slandering Mia carefully, Kirsten sent another private message.

Kris: [No. Just curious. You seem to know this bitch pretty well. If you’ve got dirt on her, I’m willing to pay.]

Elizabeth’s eyebrows furrowed in confusion. She hesitated before replying: [She’s at Pratu Hospital.]

Kirsten raised an eyebrow, thinking, ‘She’s in the hospital? No wonder she didn’t come home. She quickly responded: [Keep digging. I’ll transfer you the money.]

Elizabeth could sense Kris’s deep animosity toward Mia. Otherwise, Kris wouldn’t pay for Mia’s dirt.

Elizabeth thought. The enemy of my enemy is my friend. I don’t want to disappoint Matthew, so I can’t take Mia down myself. But letting others handle it should do the trick, right?

With that thought, Elizabeth ryped quickly: [She’s in the hematology department at Pratu Hospital, Room A52. And, by the way, she’s pregnant “What Mis is pregnant Kirsten’s eyes widened in shock. She didn’t waste any time, transferring four thousand dollars to Elizabeth before their chut ended.

Moments later, Elizabeth’s malicious tweet disappeared from the internet.

In her hospital room, Mia took a sip of milk and gazed thoughtfully at her phone screen. Elliot had sent her a message: [Ms. Reed, all the negative comments about you have been removed. However, rumors about you and Matthew are still swirling.]

Understanding Elliot’s concern, Mia promptly

odly called him. She shifted her position, nestling into the bed and trying to sound less exhausted. “Elliot, what’s your take on all this”

Elliot explained patiently. “I think this is a great opportunity. I’ve discovered that Mr. Gower, who has ties with your uncle, intends to acquire the Eldoria Group. He is backed by the Blackwood Group”

Mia’s mind raced as she thought, The Blackwood Group! So, Mathew actually has his eyes on the Eldoria Group”

“I see,” Mia said, ending the call. Her thoughts were a tangled mess. Defending the Eldoria Group meant she needed a solid–plan and a new investment partner.

Eliot had pointed out that the Blackwood Group was a powerhouse, and partnering with them could be a win–win. But Mix couldn’t stomach the idea of corying up to Matthew now, not after everything that had happened.

As online public opinion kept crashing in waves. Matthew looked out from his highrise office, observing the busy city below.

He had indirectly inquired with Lucas, the organizer of the charity gala, and learned that Mia had indeed attended the event last night as the president of the Eldoria Group.

Noticing Matthew’s detached expression, John began to relay the intel he’d gathered over the past few days.

Logan used to be the head of both the Reed family and the Eldoria Group. But recently, he had handed over the reins to the heiress of the Reed family. The remaining family members included David and his daughters, Ivan and Kirsten.

Given everything he’d learned, Matthew was now certain that Mia was the true heiress of the Reed family. His brow furrowed as he pondered the situation, deeply confused. ‘Mia, what’s your game here! Why did you hide your identity and marry me?

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12:18 PM

Chapter 25

Matthew’s gaze hardened. “John, put the Eldoria Group acquisition on hold indefinitely. Also, draft a letter of intent for cooperation and send it to them.” His eyes glinted with intrigue. He thought, ‘If she wants to play games, then I’m game‘

On a spring afternoon, the sun gently descended, casting a golden hue upon the land.

Mia sat with her tablet, leafing through the documents Elliot had sent, thinking, “What is Matthew up to! Sending a letter of intent for cooperation at such a crucial time. The Blackwood Group’s strength is formidable, and with the Eldoria Group struggling, those crafty board members must be eager to leverage Matthew’s strength, itching to strike a deal.

Mia rubbed her temples, feeling the weight of the situation press down on her. Before she could gather her thoughts, her phone buzzed. Seeing Logan’s name on the screen, she quickly answered, “Hello, Grandpa”

“Mia, have you seen the letter of intent for cooperation?” Logan’s voice, though aged and raspy, carried the weight of deep concern. He knew all too well the pain the Blackwood family had caused her. “Don’t stress over it, dear. If you’re not comfortable working with him, just turn it down. You don’t owe them anything”

Mia’s eyes filled with tears, but along with the sadness came a surprising sense of relief. In that moment, she understood that part of growing up meant accepting that some things were simply beyond her control. Besides, the best way to forget someone was by not caring about them anymore.

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LIND GUT

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