Catherine Jones and Shaun Hill novel Chapter 79

Let me go, Mr. Hill [by Shallow South] Chapter 79
Catherine was finally free.

40 minutes later, she appeared at Freya’s place.

The latter’s hair was disheveled. She yawned sleepily at the unexpected guest. “Got into an argument again? How many days do you plan on staying here this time?”

“It’s serious this time. I’m not going back there again.” Catherine changed into home slippers before entering.

“You’re kidding. You sacrificed your marriage and now you’ve changed your mind?”

She pursed her pale lips before forcing a bitter smile. “Not every deal guarantees profits. I’ll think of it as a failed investment.”

Freya’s jaw dropped to the ground. “Are you serious?”

“Yup.” Catherine plopped herself on the couch. She still looked unwell and exhausted. “I’m tired. Really, really tired.”

Freya frowned. “Have you caught a cold?”

“Yup.” Catherine fought back the tears that were forming in her eyes. “Everyone noticed it apart from him. I also wish to be cared for and looked after. Even if he’s Ethan’s uncle, I can’t possibly earn Rebecca’s respect if he doesn’t even like me. I don’t want to take this upon myself.”

Freya watched her closely and figured she had truly given up. They had been best friends for many years, after all. A sigh escaped her lips.

“Forget it, then. I respect your decision. Why don’t you move in with me? I’m living alone anyway.”

“It’s not the best idea. You and Patrick still haven’t…”

Embarrassed, Freya glared at her friend. “Stop it now. You don’t have to have sex with your partner once in a relationship.”

“But you’ve been together for a year.” Catherine blinked back blankly. “I don’t think you’re the conservative type. Patrick must be the problematic one, then. Is he capable of that?”

“Of course he is!” Freya placed both hands on her waist. “We did it before alright.”

A cheeky smile spread across Catherine’s face.

“He’s been pretty occupied lately since taking over the company.” Freya appeared helpless. “We only see each other once or twice a week, so you can rest assured. I suggested you look for a place before because Ethan kept coming to look for you here. But he has stopped now.”

The smile on Catherine’s face transformed into a scoff at the mention of that man. “I bet all he can think of right now is Rebecca.”

“He’s really a stupid man, then. His engagement ceremony is happening in a few days. Are you sure you want to attend the event?” Freya looked at her worriedly.

“Yup, but I’ll leave as soon as I congratulate my grandma on her birthday.”

“I’m afraid the Jones will try to trick you again. It’s a shame I can’t accompany you because I have an exam that day. But Patrick is attending the event as well. I’ll make sure he’s there to back you up.”

Catherine felt unusually calm.

No matter what, the plan to use Shaun as a revenge token would not work anymore.

She had come to peace with that by now. She had been so close to death before and her dignity had been trampled upon as well. Nothing could intimidate her anymore.

Despite that, she had to find a way to pay Shaun back quickly.

…

The following day, Joseph returned from his overseas business trip.

Catherine looked for him at the office. “Is it possible to request advance payment for this month’s salary? I owe people money…” she said softly, embarrassed.

“No big deal. How much do you owe? Tell me the amount and I’ll transfer the money to you right away. President Lyons keeps complimenting your ability. I can also give you an advance on the villa project.” He pulled out his phone. “Is 100,000 dollars enough?”

This caught her by surprise. “No, no, 20,000 dollars is enough.”

She still had the red envelope she received from the Harrison family, as well as the one given by Wesley yesterday afternoon. She planned to pay Shaun a little extra just in case he wanted to be calculative.

“Don’t look so overwhelmed. President Lyons’ villa project costs more than ten million dollars. Your commission on this is easily over 100,000 dollars.”

Joseph transferred 100,000 dollars to her account right away. “Keep up the good work,” he said to encourage her.

Catherine was moved. She decided that she should focus on her career.