Spiraling Down

The night before the company went public, my wife told me she had a surprise for me and reminded me to dress up for the occasion.

I thought she was planning to reveal our secret relationship, and I was so excited that I couldn’t sleep all night.

However, the next day, in front of everyone, she announced that I was a creepy obsessive admirer. On top of that, she revoked my promotion and gave my position to her first love who had just returned to the country.

Everyone was waiting to see me humiliated.

I froze for a moment but quickly composed myself, walking up to her first love with a faint smile. Then, I took off the badge on my chest and placed it on him.

“As the new director, you should celebrate, shouldn't you? How about a wedding? I’ll officiate for you two.”

Glaring at me coldly, my wife told me to get lost and stop embarrassing myself.

What they didn’t know was that I was the key connection holding the entire company together. If I left, none of the investors would back them anymore.

The media camera flashes stabbed my eyes painfully.

Not far away, I saw Allison Fonseca giving the roses I carefully prepared to Aaron Nelson. When faced with the reporters' questions, she smiled gracefully. “Everyone knows it wasn’t easy for me to start this company, but today I want to say, if not for Aaron’s constant support and encouragement behind the scenes these past few years, I wouldn’t be where I am now.

“And now that the company is successfully listed, I want to take this auspicious day to announce something. I’ve decided to appoint Aaron Nelson as the new marketing director. He’s a top-tier graduate who studied abroad and has seen many advanced practices. With him on board, our company will soar to greater heights.”

The applause and cheers were deafening, and I almost couldn’t stay on my feet. I had dressed up carefully today and even picked up an expensive diamond ring. I thought that when Allison announced our relationship, the cameras would capture the beautiful moment that belonged to us.

Alas, I was naive—it was all a fantasy. No wonder she insisted on not coming with me this morning.

Just then, Aaron’s gaze landed on me. He even waved at me. “Eric, why are you standing there alone? You’re part of the company. Come up for the group photo!”

My legs felt like they were filled with lead, and my throat was unbearably dry.

‘Part of the company? So that’s all I am to her?’ I looked at Allison, full of unwillingness, hoping she’d speak up for me, but she didn’t.

Instead, she sneered coldly. “What a disgrace. He’s only good for being a disgusting voyeur in the dead of night. Come, let’s just take the group photo.”

Her words were like a stone dropping into a lake, causing waves of shock. I could hear my colleagues whispering.

“Really? I can’t