Chapter 2

The next day, I arrived at the company's annual key project proposal meeting.

I found an inconspicuous corner and sat down, watching Alex lead Chloe to the most central seats in the front row.

He was impeccably dressed in a bespoke suit, his hair neatly combed. He leaned over, talking to a client representative beside him, completely at ease.

Chloe sat next to him, clad in a white professional suit, her face adorned with exquisite makeup. Gone was her previous innocent look, replaced by the sharp competence of a rising professional.

The way she looked at Alex was filled with adoration and worship.

The two chatted and laughed, looking every bit like a dazzling duo working in perfect sync.

Soon, the presentation began.

Chloe, as the lead presenter for the "South Side Project," walked onto the stage.

She took a deep breath and began to articulate the design concept.

"The core of our South Side Project lies in its unique 'ecological sky bridge' design. It will act like a vibrant, green artery…"

These were the exact words I had told Alex on countless late nights, fueled by coffee.

I had once believed those conversations were our deepest connection, a true meeting of minds.

Now, I realized he was just the most patient thief.

Chloe's presentation was a success. When the final renderings were displayed on the PPT, a collective gasp of admiration rippled through the room.

The presentation ended, followed by thunderous applause.

The host stepped onto the stage: "Thank you, Ms. Young, for your brilliant presentation! Now, let's move on to the Q&A session."

In the audience, a distinguished real estate mogul, Mr. Davis from City Development Group, raised his hand. He was known in the industry for his incredibly sharp eye.

"Ms. Young, hello," Mr. Davis began.

"Given the importance of this project, isn't it a bit risky to have a newcomer lead it? I recall Ms. Vance's previous 'Riverside Gate' project was an industry benchmark."

Chloe's face visibly faltered for a moment, but she quickly composed herself, glancing pleadingly at Alex in the audience.

Alex gave her a reassuring smile, then picked up the microphone in front of him.

"Mr. Davis, thank you for your question."

He stood up, his gaze sweeping across the room, finally resting on Chloe, full of pride.

"Aurora Vance, my wife, is indeed very seasoned in design. But architecture needs new life. Chloe's proposal, its biggest highlight, is its creativity—something experience alone can't replicate."

The entire room fell silent.

Then, an even more enthusiastic round of applause erupted.

My world went silent, save for the dull thudding of my heart in my chest.

I never imagined my husband would publicly discredit me.

Mr. Davis raised an eyebrow but said no more, taking his seat.

The host smiled, taking over: "It seems Mr. Miller has great confidence in Ms. Young! So, are there any other guests who would like to ask a question?"

The room remained quiet.

After Alex's full endorsement of Chloe, it seemed no one else had anything to ask.

Chloe bowed on stage, her face radiating undisguised triumph and joy.

I put away my phone and picked up the microphone on the table.

Instantly, all eyes turned to me.

The host paused, bewildered: "Ma'am, may I ask who you are?"

The smile on Alex's face froze.

Chloe's gaze, directed at me, also held a hint of wariness.