Maybe she was just afraid she’d hold her accountable later.
[I know exactly who stole my design and sold it to Naomi. This isn’t over. Mess with me all you want, but my work is off-limits.]
Lindsay didn’t press her for details, just replied with a single “Okay.”
Whether it was theft or bribery, both were reprehensible. They were all adults—everyone should bear the consequences of their actions.
Meanwhile, Naomi had no idea her purchase of the stolen designs had been exposed. She was still bragging to her colleagues about how hard she worked, how positive she was, painting herself as the very model of diligence.
Last night’s dinner and drinks had left her coworkers thoroughly satisfied. Even if they sometimes disagreed with Naomi’s opinions, they still nodded along, ignoring their own better judgment.
After all, it’s hard to bite the hand that feeds you.
Having finished boasting to her colleagues, Naomi texted Lester: Lester, I secured a spot! How about dinner tonight to celebrate?
Ever since their argument a few days ago, Lester hadn’t replied to any of her messages. He ignored her calls too—giving her the cold shoulder entirely, and for Naomi, that was torture.
She’d thought about going to Quigley Manor to find him, but she didn’t dare. She was terrified Daniel might set those massive guard dogs on her.
A few years back, she’d tried visiting once—the memory was still vivid. The dog’s gaping maw, razor-sharp fangs, and those deep, bone-chilling growls had nearly scared her senseless.
Even now, just thinking about it made Naomi shudder.
An hour passed after she sent her message, and still, no reply from Lester. Unable to hold back, she sent another:
Lester, have you been really busy lately? I know work’s important, but you still have to eat, you know.
Her words might as well have sunk to the bottom of the ocean—there was no response at all.
By the time work ended, Naomi still hadn’t heard from Lester. Her heart sank. Was this really the end for them?
Suddenly, her phone rang—a bright, cheerful ringtone. Naomi’s heart leapt; she thought for sure it was Lester.


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