The Paper Wife’s Empire novel Chapter 84

Jotham didn’t even care that Brianna was standing right there. His voice faltered as he said, “Half of Holt Group will be yours in the future. What more do you need to trust me?”

Brianna’s hand shook, and the shopping bags she’d just bought slipped from her grasp, tumbling to the floor with a clatter. She nearly choked on her own breath, stunned.

Jotham had lied to her? He was really giving Ramona half of Holt Group?

“Ramona, even the cheapest thing in this store costs at least a hundred grand,” Brianna sneered, catching sight of Ramona’s shopping bag. “Those cufflinks you bought aren’t cheap either, are they? Are they for Jotham?”

Brianna’s voice was dripping with sarcasm as she continued, “Jotham works hard for his money. If you really want to please him, maybe try helping out with the company instead of splurging on ridiculous luxury items. How can he even think about giving you shares when you’re out here burning through his money?”

Her words seemed to give Jotham pause. If Ramona had bought those expensive cufflinks, they could only be for him. No matter how stubborn she was, her actions spoke louder than her words.

Seeing Ramona now, Jotham couldn’t help but feel a slight tug on his heart. She looked even more stunning than before, her style and taste clearly evolved. He’d barely recognized her when she first walked in—she had the poise of a high-society heiress.

“Ramona, Ms. Prescott isn’t wrong,” Jotham said, his tone softer as he moved closer. “You don’t need to give me such extravagant gifts. Just don’t argue with me anymore. Let’s get through these company issues together. That would make me happier than any present.”

He gazed at her with genuine warmth. “Go return the things, okay? The company is struggling right now. We have to be careful with our spending.”

Ramona almost laughed. These two were quite a pair, seamlessly playing off each other. It was obvious they’d come here shopping together, yet somehow she was the one being accused of squandering Jotham’s money?

“First of all, Jotham, those cufflinks weren’t for you. You’re not the only one I might buy gifts for. Second, Ms. Prescott, you should watch your mouth. Making false accusations is a legal matter.”

Ramona’s voice was cool but unhurried. “Every cent I spend is my own. The profits I’ve generated for Holt Group over the years have long since topped eight figures. Even if Jotham gave me money, it wouldn’t begin to cover the dividends I’m owed. If you’d like, we can go through the accounts together right now and settle up to the penny.”

Her words struck Jotham right where it hurt. What he dreaded most was Ramona bringing this up. In the past, she’d always protected his reputation, attributing the company’s success to him even when she was the one holding it together. But if she wanted to be precise, there was a clear record of her achievements.

“Ramona, that’s not what I meant. Ms. Prescott didn’t mean it like that either…” Jotham stammered, panic flashing in his eyes. But before he could finish, Ramona glanced at the shopping bags on the floor.

“Ms. Prescott, you bought quite a haul yourself. That must have cost a pretty penny. Since Jotham didn’t mention any of this to me, I’m assuming you realize you’re spending our joint funds, you know, the ‘marital assets’?”

She deliberately emphasized the word “marital,” her gaze unwavering.

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