Chapter 3: The Truth Hidden for Seven Years
By noon, Clare regained consciousness.
Richard remained beside her hospital bed.
Neither of them spoke for several minutes.
Finally, Clare whispered,
"I thought you hated me."
Richard looked genuinely surprised.
"I hated watching you disappear."
Tears rolled down her face.
"I chose him over you."
"You chose love."
"I chose to wait."
He opened a small leather folder he had carried for years.
Inside were copies of every newspaper article about NexusCore.
Every interview.
Every award Matthew had accepted.
Every photograph of Clare standing quietly in the background.
"I attended every shareholder meeting."
"You... what?"
"You never saw me."
"I promised myself I wouldn't interfere unless you asked."
His eyes softened.
"You finally asked."
Clare broke into tears.
"I'm sorry."
Richard squeezed her hand.
"You already paid enough for one mistake."
Meanwhile, detectives entered the hospital carrying evidence bags.
"The apartment security footage has been secured."
"The building elevator cameras captured Mr. Hayes leaving."
"The medical report documents exactly twenty impact injuries."
May you like
Richard nodded.
"Proceed."
