A Crown of Strength

---- Chapter 5 Shining Group was a pinnacle Xander could never reach in his lifetime, so naturally, we weren't in the same league. Back when | loved Xander, | used the inheritance my mother left me to start a company. | named it Shining, hoping it would glow as brightly as our love. | quietly built it into the world's top conglomerate. | had planned to give Shining to Xander on our third anniversary to celebrate our grand love. But just one day short, | learned the truth. Xander laughed at my words. "Lorraine, are you so desperate for me that you're spouting nonsense?

I've seen plenty of people like you, saying anything to get my attention! You're only standing here because you can't let go of the wealthy wife status and the money, right?" He pulled a card from his jacket pocket and tossed it at my feet. "There's a million in there. That's enough for you. Take the money and get lost!" Before | could respond, Dorothy interrupted. "Xander, why? Why give her anything? | won't allow it!" ---- Her delicate face twisted with anger. Xander gently patted her head, explaining patiently. "It's just compensation for her efforts these past few years.

Okay?" Dorothy slapped his hand away, yelling in frustration. "Xander, | think you like her! Didn't you see how she talked back to me? And now you're giving her money? You still care about her!" Xander rushed to soothe her. "I only love you, Dorothy! How could | like her?" Seeing her still upset, he dropped to one knee and kissed the back of her hand. "My darling. What do | need to do to prove | don't like her?" Dorothy pouted, whining playfully. "I'm not heartless. After all, she was my stand-in for three years. Hubby, make her kneel and apologize for talking back to me.

Then I'll forgive her, and she can take the money!" Xander stood with a smile, pulling her into his arms. "Whatever you say. My Dorothy is so kind!" Watching their display of affection, my stomach churned with disgust. | kicked the card back to Xander's side. "Sorry, I'm not apologizing. And that money? It's too little for me to care about."