Before Ashley could finish her thought, Kevan's sharp voice cut through the air like a whip. "Ashley, didn't you say you'd come by to finalize the divorce? I don't have time for your nonsense. Come back tonight."
A lump formed in Ashley's throat. She opened her mouth to respond, but then Lisette's sugary voice interrupted. "Kevan, thank you for endorsing me for that exclusive designer jewelry."
Kevan's tone softened immediately, almost melting. "You're welcome."
The sudden warmth in his voice made Ashley's chest tighten painfully. He had never sounded like that with her.
She shut her eyes briefly, swallowing the bitterness rising inside. "Kevan, I didn't make it to the office on time because I was in a car accident. Please just send me the signed divorce papers."
When he heard that, Kevan's anger flared. "Do you really expect me to buy such a lame excuse? You're as sneaky as you were three years ago."
Ashley felt her blood turn ice cold. While she was lying injured, her husband was off with another woman, and now, not only did he doubt her, but he was also accusing her of lying.
"If you hate me that much, just end this. Send the divorce papers signed," she said through clenched teeth.
No sooner had Ashley spoken these words than a sharp, searing pain exploded in her head. She cut the call abruptly, barely stifling a cry of agony.
The physical pain twisted with the emotional stress, almost causing Ashley to stumble.
A nurse immediately rushed to her side, steadying her gently. With a soft look, she suggested, "Ma'am, maybe you should try calling someone else?"
Ashley nodded weakly and was about to reach for her phone to dial Rosanna when a familiar voice floated closer. "Ashley, is that really you?"
It was Preston, the president of Galaxy Entertainment, the very company Rosanna had suggested Ashley join.
A flicker of embarrassment crossed Ashley's face as she met her former boss's concerned gaze. "Yes, it's me. What brings you to the hospital, Mr. Lloyd?"
Preston placed a box of fruit gently on the table, his eyes never leaving her. "I came to check on you. The person responsible for your accident is actually one of my artists. Apparently, someone tampered with her brakes, which caused the crash. How are you feeling? Any pain or discomfort anywhere?"
He had been restless ever since he heard about the accident, worrying nonstop about the woman involved.
Now, seeing her in front of him, he felt some relief.
Ashley's fingers tightened around the bedsheet. "I'm alright. But who was the celebrity that hit me?"
Preston explained honestly, "Her name is Sophie Collins. She's already cooperating with the police. The investigation shows her brake lines were cut. If you're worried, I can help arrange another inspection."
Ashley didn't know the woman and trusted the police to handle the matter properly. She didn't want unnecessary trouble. "There's no need. It was probably just an unfortunate accident."
After all, accidents happened every day, and she had simply been unlucky enough to be in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Preston continued watching her with a protective gaze. "I'll keep an eye on the situation for you. By the way, I heard you attended the industry summit last night. If you're looking for a job, why not consider Galaxy Entertainment? We'd welcome you anytime."
Ashley pressed her lips together, already knowing she didn't want to return.
Years ago, at the peak of her career, she had walked away from the company without hesitation, despite Preston's persistent efforts to get her to stay.
On the day she resigned, he had even confessed he liked her.
As she remembered that moment, her fingers unconsciously curled a little tighter. "Thank you, Mr. Lloyd, but I might find employment elsewhere."
However, Preston wasn't ready to give up. He spoke plainly, cutting straight to the heart of the matter. "If the reason you won't come back is because you know I like you, that's a shame. I'm not going to make things uncomfortable just because you don't return my feelings, and I'll never use my position to force you into anything."
Without waiting for her response, he continued, "I don't know what you've gone through in the past three years, but I do know that Galaxy Entertainment is the best place for you to rebuild your career."
Galaxy Entertainment was a giant in the industry—its reach, influence, and resources were unmatched.
As he spoke, the past three years replayed in Ashley's mind—Kevan's constant belittling, his comparisons to Lisette, and the way he chipped away at her confidence bit by bit.
She lifted her eyes to Preston again and finally nodded. "You're right, Mr. Lloyd. I do need Galaxy Entertainment's platform. I look forward to working with you."
Preston smiled, the corners of his eyes softening. "Likewise. Looking forward to it."
