The Contract Said No Strings Attached (Charlotte) novel Chapter 143

Before she realized it, noon had already arrived.

Rebecca stretched, rolling her stiff shoulders to chase away the morning’s tension.

Just then, Director Porter strolled over.

“Raina, how did you get on with this morning’s assignment?” he asked.

Rebecca handed him the organized data and her preliminary analysis. “Director, I’ve finished most of it. There are a few details I still need to polish.”

Director Porter glanced through the documents, nodding with satisfaction. “Looks good. Keep it up. The CEO’s got an important meeting this afternoon—make sure you’re ready.”

“I will, Director,” Rebecca replied.

With preparation to do for the afternoon meeting, Rebecca decided to grab a quick lunch from the café downstairs. She returned with a takeout box, heading up as the elevator doors slid open. Just as she was about to step inside, a familiar figure darted in ahead of her.

She found herself face to face with Crystal Thomson.

Crystal stared at her in surprise. “Rebecca? What are you doing here?”

Rebecca’s heart skipped a beat. The last thing she wanted was for Crystal to find out she worked here—if Crystal knew, her parents would hear about it in no time. She forced herself to sound casual. “Why I’m here doesn’t really concern you, does it?”

Crystal’s gaze dropped to the lunch in Rebecca’s hand, and realization dawned. So, she was here to bring Dylan lunch?

Crystal had gone out of her way to learn that Dylan was now working at the Frost Group. She’d dressed carefully, brought a homemade meal, and picked out an expensive gift—planning to visit him under the pretense of lunch and a thoughtful present.

Then, recalling how Noah had overheard her phone call with Emily Clark, the explanation clicked. Annoyance flickered across her face. “Was it Noah who told you?”

Rebecca’s expression stayed calm. “Does it matter who told me? Honestly, you wear your feelings on your sleeve. Did you think I wouldn’t notice?”

Crystal flushed scarlet, fists clenching at her sides. “So what if you know? I’ll tell you the truth, Rebecca: Dylan and I were together for five years overseas. That’s not something you can compete with. I know you married him, but you can’t stop me from seeing him.”

Rebecca’s smile turned cold. She stepped forward, eyes locked on Crystal. “If you know we’re married, you shouldn’t be coveting your own sister’s husband.”

Crystal’s face twisted with anger. “Don’t flatter yourself, Rebecca. Dylan never loved you. He married you because he had no choice.”

Rebecca’s gaze grew firm. “Whether he loves me or not, that’s between us. Not you. And as for you, Crystal—learn the meaning of boundaries. Trying to wreck someone else’s family is simply wrong.”