Chapter number 79: Hanging on a Crooked Tree
(Aria’s POV)
Dominic’s lips curled into that confident smile that made his silver–gray eyes gleam. “I started recording the moment I saw her step out of the elevator.”
“That’s brilliant,” I whispered, hope blooming in my chest. “We have her denying knowing James, when we clearly saw them together.”
“Exactly.” Dominic pocketed his phone. “And with the evidence about her pregnancy, we have irrefutable proof
of her affair.“.
I leaned back against the car seat, my mind racing. “We need to show this to James. Make him understand
what kind of person Claire really is.”
Dominic nodded, his expression serious. “Tomorrow. Let’s give him time to cool down first.”
The thought of confronting my brother again made my stomach churn, but I knew it was necessary. I couldn’t
let Claire manipulate him any longer.
The following day, I arrived at Silver Leaf Herbalists earlier than usual, hoping to avoid awkward interactions with colleagues who had likely seen the viral video of my confrontation with Claire.
As I settled at my workstation, arranging my dried herbs and tools, my department manager appeared, her expression unreadable.
“Aria, can I see you in my office?”
My heart sank. This was it–I was probably going to be reprimanded for the protest incident Claire had
instigated.
“Of course,” I replied, following her down the corridor.
Once inside her office, she gestured for me to sit, then surprised me by placing a glossy brochure on the desk
between us.
“Are you familiar with ‘Healers‘ Voice‘?” she asked.
I nodded, momentarily confused. “The herbal remedy showcase show. It’s quite popular.”
“They want you,” she said simply, pushing the brochure toward me.
I blinked, certain I’d misheard. “I’m sorry?”
She leaned forward, suddenly animated. “That video of you and Claire Watson went viral! You’re famous now, Aria. Your social media followers/jumped to three hundred thousand overnight.”
“What?” I gasped, genuinely shocked. I rarely used social media.
“Someone uncovered an old university photo of you looking adoringly at Alexander Reed during a pack function,” she explained. “It revealed your identity as his Luna to those who didn’t already know, and the contrast with Claire’s behavior in the video… well, let’s just say public opinion is firmly on your side.”
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1/A
<Chapter number 79.Kang,
I sat there, stunned. “I don’t understand what this has to do with Healers Volde
“They’re planning a special episode featuring promising herbalists,” she said. “Your newfound fame you perfect for the show. It would be incredible exposure for Silver Leaf
My initial excitement dimmed as reality set in. “Who else is invited?”
The manager’s enthusiastic smile faltered slightly. “Several herbalists from around the territory. Including Claire Watson.”
Of course. I wasn’t being invited for my skills, but for the drama. They wanted to exploit the scandal.
“I don’t think that’s a good idea,” I said carefully. “Claire and I in the same room, on live television?” “Think about it, Aria,” she urged. “This could launch your career to new heights, Silver Leaf would even give you a bonus for the publicity.”
I ran my fingers along the glossy brochure, tempted despite my reservations. The bonus would be helpful with my growing expenses–preparing for a pup wasn’t cheap.
But the thought of facing Claire in such a public setting, knowing she’d try to provoke me, made me hesitate. “I appreciate the opportunity,” I said finally. “But I need to decline.”
Disappointment flashed across the manager’s face. “Are you sure? This kind of exposure doesn’t come along
often.”
I nodded firmly. “I’m sure. I’d rather be recognized for my herbal skills than for my personal drama.” She sighed but didn’t push further. “Very well. Let me know if you change your mind.”
As I returned to my desk, I noticed the shift in my colleagues‘ behavior. Their whispers ceased abruptly when
They knew now–not just about my connection to Alexander Reed, but about the scandal surrounding our mate bond severance and Claire Watson’s involvement.
“Aria! Thanks for coming.” He gestured to the chair across from him. “I, uh, wanted to ask you something. It’s personal, though. Feel free to tell me it’s none of my business.”
The directness of his question surprised me. I expected office gossip, not a straight inquiry.
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