Chapter 2

No wonder Wendell wanted her to move out tonight. It turned out someone was eager to assert her dominance and move into her home.

Heh, Valerie couldn't believe she was upset over a heartless man like him. She wished she could slap herself for her former idea!

Odelia, with an air of superiority, walked up to Valerie and spoke in a condescending tone, "So, you're Valerie? Still here?"

"Wendell already kicked you out, and yet you're still lingering around his place. Have you no shame?"

Valerie ignored her provocation and continued packing her scattered belongings.

"Hey, are you deaf? Can't you hear me talking to you?"

"Sorry, I didn't hear."

Valerie finally looked up, her expression calm. "All I heard was a dog barking."

"How dare you call me a dog?!"

"I didn't call you that. I just said I heard a dog barking and you think you are the dog."

With that, she dragged her suitcase and tilted her head towards Odelia who stood in her way. "Move aside, good girl."

"How dare you?"

Odelia stomped her foot in anger, her face turning red and then white.

Didn’t they all say this Mrs. Joule always was so gentle and had good manners? How come she had such a sharp tongue?

The servant quickly stepped forward to appease Odelia.

"Ms. Walkley, please calm down. It's not worth getting upset over a divorced woman."

"In the future, you'll be the new Mrs. Joule. Just pay this woman no mind..."

"Your room has been prepared according to Mr. Joule's instructions. Allow me to show you the way!"

Odelia was delighted by the flattery and no longer bothered with Valerie. She followed the servant into the mansion.

In the chilling wind, Valerie was left alone.

She looked at the grand and imposing building, feeling a mix of emotions.

Four years of her life were wasted here, only to end up in such a miserable situation. How ironic.

"Goodbye, Wendell!"

Valerie took a deep breath, and left without looking back.

That night, she rented a one-bedroom apartment in the downtown area.

The room was small, but at least she felt settled.

Suddenly, she felt relieved. Free from the constraints of being "Mrs. Joule", she could do whatever she wanted.

Valerie took out her phone and dialed the number she had blocked for four years.

"Boss, after four years, you finally remember me!"

Cornell Waters, one of the Pearson Four, was always known for his rebellious character. But at that moment, he sounded like a puppy waiting for his treat, his voice filled with excitement.

"I heard you're getting divorced. Congratulations! That stone-face Wendell should have been kicked away long ago!"

"You have no idea how famous you've become during these years in the Joule family. Those old men would be amazed to know that you're the person they've been trying to dig out!"

"So, are we going for something big this time? I was..."

"Stop!"

Valerie's head was throbbing from his loud voice. She could not help but stop this guy again.

"I promised my grandfather not to get involved anymore. If you really consider me your boss, then keep this secret for me."

Indeed, she had quite a thrilling past, but it was already in the past and she didn't want to dwell on it.

"I called you this time because I need your help with an investigation..."

After finishing her conversation with Cornell, Valerie ended the call.

At the same time, a text message came in from Wendell.

Her heart raced instantly.

"Tomorrow at 9 o'clock at City Hall."

Simple words without any emotion, as if any additional word would be a great favor from him.

The ripples in her heart settled back into calm waters.

Heh, she knew it. She shouldn't have had any expectations from this man.

"Okay."

Valerie quickly replied with no emotion whatsoever. It was as straightforward as it could be.