Chapter 6

Charlotte was deep in thought, contemplating whether she should change her duty shift. She needed time to figure out how to take revenge on the Carter family. Without knocking, she entered Dr. Robert's office, oblivious to the fact that he was in the middle of a conversation with someone else.

“Doctor, I want to change my shift—right now,” she blurted out, her urgency evident in her voice.

Dr. Robert looked up, surprise etched on his face. “Charlotte, today is your first day, and you want to change your shift already? What’s going on?”

I hadn’t even considered that I would need a solid reason to request a shift change. What should I say now? Panic began to rise within her as she searched for an excuse. “Um... well, haven’t you seen how rude Mr. Wendell Carter’s grandson is? I don’t want to face that toxic person. I want to start my work with good people, not while listening to the tantrums of some spoiled rich prince.”

As soon as Charlotte finished speaking, the man sitting across from Dr. Robert turned to her, his expression a mix of disbelief and amusement. “Am I hearing this right?” he said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. “I’m dead?”

Charlotte’s heart raced as she recognized him. It was Howard Carter.

Her mind spun as she realized the implications of her words. She had just openly criticized him without knowing he was in the room. What have I done? she thought, feeling a flush of embarrassment mixed with adrenaline.

His cold eyes turned towards me, and so did his steps. Even in his anger, his face looked handsome. No, I can’t forget what he did to me. This man, as handsome as he is, is equally cruel. He stood right in front of me, and his cold eyes fixed into mine.

I told myself, “Don’t look into his eyes, Charlotte. Not now. You need to take revenge; you cannot fall for him again.”

The tension in the air was palpable as I struggled to maintain my composure. My heart raced, torn between the undeniable attraction I felt for him and the bitter memories of the past. His presence was magnetic, yet I reminded myself of the pain he had caused.

This is not the time for weakness, I thought, trying to steel myself against the emotions swirling within me. His handsome features, framed by that confident demeanor, were a stark contrast to the hurt he had inflicted.

As he stepped closer, I could feel my resolve wavering, but I fought against it. I must stay strong. I will not allow myself to be swayed by his charm or his looks. I have to remember my purpose.

In that moment, I realized that my feelings were a dangerous distraction. I needed to focus on the path ahead, one that would lead me to reclaim my power and take the revenge I so desperately sought.

“What nonsense did you just say?” he said coldly. I composed myself and confidently replied, “I don’t want to see your face again.” I couldn’t believe I had said that, but there was no change in his expression. I was surprised; he didn’t even break eye contact, and I wasn’t going to back down either. I stood my ground. Howard Carter, you’re a complete jerk. I wanted to say it out loud, but the words didn’t escape my lips.

Then he said, “Nice way to get my attention, but I know girls like you all too well.” His words hit me like a slap across the face. He had just called me a gold digger and an attention seeker, and I understood his indirect insult all too clearly. How could it get any worse? You really are a scoundrel, Howard Carter.

Before I could respond, he walked away. I was left speechless, filled with hatred for him and for myself. Just then, Robert chimed in, “Don’t take his words to heart; that’s just how he is. I’ll let you know about your shift change later. For now, just focus on your work.” I nodded and stepped out of the room, feeling frustrated and confused.

Why was this happening to me?

I knew I couldn’t give him a harsh reply; perhaps, in some corner of my heart, there was still a place for him. But I couldn’t forget what he had taken from me. I didn’t want to let him take anything else away. I had to be tough. Just then, I noticed Howard on the phone, and anger surged through me. He couldn’t disrespect me like this—not in this life.

I marched towards him and grabbed his shoulder, turning him to face me. “How dare you insult me? You... you are the worst kind of person, so despicable and ungrateful! I saved your grandfather’s life, and in return, you call me a gold digger and an attention seeker? What could I expect from someone like you, you scoundrel!” I nearly shouted, feeling a rush of satisfaction. Finally, I had said something to him.

I felt my breath quicken. What was going on in that scoundrel's mind? I couldn’t understand what he was thinking.

I realized my back was against the wall, and I was cornered. I couldn’t back away any further. I was filled with dread, wondering if he was angry enough to strike me.

My heart raced, pounding loudly in my chest. He remained calm, but then I noticed him stepping closer to me. I took a step back, feeling a wave of anxiety wash over me. He looked into my eyes again, and suddenly, I felt trapped. My back hit the wall, and I realized I couldn’t retreat any further. Was he going to hit me? I was certain of it. I shouldn’t have confronted him today, especially not on my first day as Charlotte again.

"I never called you a gold digger or an attention seeker, yet you spilled the truth about yourself. Nice try and don’t ever attempt to touch me with those filthy hands again, or else those hands won't be in their place." My eyes widened in disbelief. I couldn’t believe I had ever loved this man.