Chapter 3

Six months ago , Guthrie Cosmetics was exposed for using carcinogenic ingredients in their skincare products .

The scandal had dealt a heavy blow to the family .

Thats why they were in such a rush to have me marry Ethan .

But I hadnt known any of this before .

It wasnt until I discovered Anna was pregnant , and Ethan still stubbornly insisted on marrying me instead of giving her proper status , that I realized something was off .

I did some digging and found out the Guthries were facing a major cash flow problem .

But by then it was too late .

We had already set the wedding date .

My parents probably knew about the Guthries issues long ago .

But for my sake , they gritted their teeth and continued working with them .

I finally broke down in tears .

But by then it was too late .

we had already set the wedding date .

My parents probably knew about the Guthries issues long ago .

But for my sake , they gritted their teeth and continued working with them .

I felt so unfilial .

I finally broke down in tears .

Im sorry .

Ive made you lose face , I choked out .

Mom hugged me tightly .

Stella , honey , you did nothing wrong .

Theres no shame in loving someone .

Dad rushed to comfort me as well .

Thats right .

Its all the Guthries fault for being such scum .

Their words gradually lifted my mood .

That evening , I received a message from Ethan : Ill let todays incident slide .

Youve vented enough , so were even now .

I had to do a double take , shocked by his thick skin .

Even after all that drama , he still thought there was hope for our relationship.

As I was pondering this , more messages came through : Ive thought it over .

Since you cant accept Sky , Ill send him away after were married .

But I still need to set aside some shares for him .

He is my son after all .

Dont worry , only the children you bear will be the true Guthrie heirs .

I rolled my eyes so hard they nearly fell out of my head .

Inherit what ? The Guthrie familys debts ? I didnt bother replying , just muted his messages .

That night , I locked myself in my room .

I knew the Guthries were clinging to me desperately just to save their crumbling empire .

Recently , the Guthries had been working on a project with Jason Corp.

I decided to contact the CEO of Jason Corp directly .

Jason , I have a business proposition for you , I said.

Miss Moore , what do you mean … ? I smiled sweetly .

Then I sent a file to Mr. Jasons email .

This is an alternative partnership proposal Ive prepared for you .

Moore Industries has more capital and resources to ensure the projects success .

The man on the other end went quiet for a moment .

I assumed he was reviewing the file I sent .

Miss Moore , your offer is very appealing , he finally said .

But Ive already agreed to work with Guthrie Corp.

Were about to sign the contract .

Backing out now would make me seem untrustworthy .

But I wasnt worried .

I had anticipated this response .

Jasons greatest strength was his integrity .

Of course , I understand your position , I said calmly .

But I hope youll consider it carefully .

Once Moore Industries officially ends our partnership with the Guthries , their problems may affect you as well … After a long pause , he let out a heavy sigh .

Two days later , Ethan showed up at my door.