Chapter 4
Matthew took me to the Leedon Group's annual party.
Anthony approached us, greeting Matthew, "Well, well, brother, you've changed your date again?"
He eyed me lustfully: "Nice figure. How about passing her my way?"
I stared into his disgusting eyes, wishing I could stab them with a fork.
Not marrying this creep was truly a blessing in disguise.
I looked at Anthony with tears in my eyes, saying pitifully: "Can't you be decent? Looking at me like that, people might think you're an animal."
Matthew stifled a laugh and led me away, affectionately stroking the back of my head.
He leaned in to fix my hair, making it look like we were kissing to onlookers.
"The show's just beginning," I whispered, my arms around his neck.
The Leedon Group's party was being livestreamed, befitting their status as an industry leader.
He guided me to our assigned table.
The event had everything - singing, dancing, comedy, talent shows.
The company presentation came last, with fashion design as the highlight.
"Next, please welcome our renowned designer, Runa Larson, to introduce this year's award-winning clothing line, 'Golden Age'."
Design sketches scrolled across the big screen, featuring Asian-inspired styles with ink painting and embroidery - neither of which Runa understood.
I stood up abruptly, eyes brimming with tears.
"How could you plagiarize?!"
I interrupted her speech.
When she saw me, she blurted out: "Aren't you supposed to be dead?"
The microphone was still at her lips.
If I hadn't used so many eye drops, I might have burst out laughing.
Anthony immediately stepped in to salvage the situation. I had to admit, as the CEO of Leedon Group, he had some skills.
The gala continued, but online discussions and livestream comments were in chaos.
[Genius designer Runa accused of plagiarism]
[Leedon Group fashion designs stolen]
[Emerging designer Alice takes center stage]
[Runa Larson scandal]
[Alice: The real genius designer]
I didn't care about the commotion at the venue. This was just the opening act.
As the party ended, Runa blocked me at the door and slapped me across the face.
I fell to the ground dramatically.
Crying and shouting: "Miss Runa Larson, why did you steal my sister's work!"
She was about to retort when she noticed the reporters gathering.
Matthew played the hero, scooping me up in his arms.
We made quite a scene in front of the cameras.
Back at the hotel, Matthew looked at me sternly.
"Who told you to do this?"
As I held an ice pack to my face while checking Twitter trends, I coldly replied: "Vengeance."
He looked exasperated: "Can't you take better care of yourself?"
I got up and hugged him: "I can. I still need to repay you, Matthew. Why don't you let me show my gratitude by offering myself to you?"
He pushed me away, his eyes unreadable. As I expected, he left.
The trending topics changed to [Runa Larson loses her cool]
[Matthew Bates: Knight in shining armor]
[Leedon Group gala drama unfolds]
Far down the list was a topic: [Leedon Group accused of tax fraud]
Few people noticed, but some did.
Matthew, I hope you enjoy the gift I've sent you.
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