Find me in your labyrinth (Stella and Jonathan) novel Chapter 3634

At this point, Marina felt absolutely no need to explain herself. She turned her head away, unwilling to waste another word on him.

After a heavy silence, Carson spoke, his voice dangerously soft. "You're working yourself to the bone, yet that man hasn't shown up once to help you. Use your brain, Marina. Take a good look at who actually treats you better."

Marina let out a self-deprecating laugh, staring straight into his eyes. "Are you talking about yourself? Well, your version of 'better'..."

She paused, delivering each word with deliberate precision. "I don't want it."

Rage instantly erupted in Carson's eyes, flashing with a terrifying, violent intensity, as if he wanted to swallow her whole.

He stared at her with profound disappointment, then spun around and slammed the door behind him.

Marina leaned against the wall, taking deep, shaky breaths. Right now, she desperately wanted a cigarette. Maybe the harsh, burning sensation in her lungs would make her feel a little better.

*

By the time the dinner ended, it was already ten-thirty. Marina, looking perfectly composed, said her goodbyes to Jared outside the hotel.

Jared looked at her with genuine admiration. "Out of all the women I know, you easily have the highest tolerance, Ms. Evert. We definitely have to go toe-to-toe next time."

Marina offered a self-mocking smile. "Can't you tell, Mr. Bailey? I'm just running on fumes. I feel like I could collapse at any second."

"Do you want me to call a designated driver for you?" Jared asked with concern.

Marina chuckled lightly. "Thank you, but there's no need. My driver is on his way!"

"Alright, then I'll head out first!" Jared said, his gaze sincere. "I'll review the materials thoroughly and do everything I can to push it through the board. I trust your character, Ms. Evert."

Marina smiled genuinely. "Thank you."

As Jared left, Carson emerged from the hotel, surrounded by the rest of the group. His icy gaze swept over the lingering camaraderie between Marina and Jared, his expression unreadable and dark.

Marina didn't look back, stepping down the stairs.

"Marina!"

A car pulled up to the curb, and Sean Shepherd stepped out, striding toward her.

Marina froze. What was he doing here?

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