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CHAPTER 18: FIRST IMPRESSION MATTERS
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2025-03-26 06:14:41
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FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 19: A NICE AND KIND FRIEND LIKE ALFIE
to work, I would likely have encountered traffic, which could have prevented me from being here. I did not wish to disappoint you," Alfie explained. Ethan smiled and said, "Ah, my friend, you are indeed a true companion. I am grateful that you chose not to let me down." "It is nothing, my friend. Allow me to assist you," Alfie insisted. "Very well, thank you," Ethan expressed his gratitude. Alfie then aided Ethan with the housework, and once they completed their tasks, they took a moment to rest. "Your girlfriend must be quite special for you to have cleaned your house so meticulously," Alfie remarked. "Haha, I would say you are correct," Ethan laughed in response. "By the way, is this the same Angela you mentioned previously that we are expecting today?" Alfie asked. "Yes, that is indeed her. Why do you inquire?" Ethan questioned. "Nothing in particular; I merely wanted to confirm. What time is she scheduled to arrive, as evening has already approached?" Alfie inquired. "Do
Last Updated : 2025-03-26FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 20: STEVEN FAKES AN APOLOGY TO SECURE HIS MISCHIEVOUS PLAN
as he is welcome here at any time,” Ethan explained. "Everything you have said about him is accurate; he behaved exactly as you anticipated, suggesting that you must have known him for quite some time," Angela inferred. "Indeed, I have known him since childhood, which I must say is quite a considerable time. He is like a brother to me, as I mentioned before. In any case, thank you for visiting my home today as promised; once again, you are most welcome,” Ethan expressed. "We had an agreement; you fulfilled your part, and now it is time for me to fulfil mine," Angela stated. Ethan nodded and replied, “It is indeed a pleasure to have you here.” “I am grateful; by the way, you have a lovely home,” Angela complimented. “Thank you very much,” Ethan replied. “I should be on my way now; it is getting late,” Angela insisted as she stood up. “Please, do not go. I would prefer you to stay. My home is also your home, and you are welcome here at any time. However, I do ask one favour,” Et
Last Updated : 2025-03-26FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 21: MY INSTINCTS DO NOT TRUST HIM
replied, "It is acceptable. However, had you inquired before making assumptions, you would have discovered that she is my girlfriend, but it is fine." "Thank you for accepting my apology; I owe you one. How about we share a bottle of beer tonight?" Steven suggested cheerfully. "Noted, but I must inform you that I am not one that drinks excessively," Ethan replied. "Hehehehe, just a bottle or two," Steven chuckled. "Very well, let us see how it goes. For now, if you are free, I would greatly appreciate your assistance with typing since you are quite proficient, allowing me to attend to other matters," Ethan requested. This was the opportunity Steven had been anticipating, and he readily accepted the offer. "Certainly, I am free. If typing for you helps you to forget about today's incident, I am willing to assist until the end of the workday," Steven teased as he took a seat. "You are quite amusing, Steven. However, if it is not too much trouble, could you begin typing now while
Last Updated : 2025-03-27FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 22: THE DISRESPECTFUL ANNA
to your seniority as a banker; otherwise, I would have given you a taste of your own medicine as well,” Anna retorted. Upon hearing this, Ethan seized her arm tightly, his frustration mounting as he shouted, “Oh, just try me and see! I dare you!” “Ethan, let go; you are hurting me!” Anna screamed. Ethan then released her arm, pushed her aside, and walked away. Anna swiftly went to report Ethan to the bank manager. “Sir, I experienced a minor issue with one of our cleaners, Angela, and for some reason, Ethan confronted me,” Anna reported. “Is that so? What transpired that led to your altercation with Angela this morning?” the bank manager inquired. “Well, she accidentally spilled dirt on me and failed to apologise,” Anna explained. “Indeed, and what action did you take when you realised she would not apologise?” the bank manager questioned. “I yelled at her,” Anna admitted. “And while you were yelling at her, did she respond in any way?” the bank manager probed. “Not at all,
Last Updated : 2025-03-27FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 23: YOU ARE NOW THE OWNER OF YOUR OWN BUSINESS
maturity. Therefore, relax; you have accomplished the most significant task, which is to confront Anna. Moreover, the entire staff is opposed to Anna for her disrespectful behaviour towards Angela," Steven clarified. Ethan took a deep breath and smiled. "Thank you." As Steven and Ethan continued their conversation, Steven felt pleased with their camaraderie, as he was eager to set his plans in motion. However, he recognised that acting hastily could render him the prime suspect, so he decided to heed his sister's advice and proceed with caution. After finishing work, Ethan returned home and found Angela asleep. "It appears she has been crying," Ethan remarked softly. He gently kissed her, causing her to awaken and embrace him. "Welcome home, my love," Angela said. "Thank you, my love. How are you this evening?" Ethan inquired. "I am well. I was lost in thought and then fell asleep," Angela replied. "Hmm, I trust you were not crying?" Ethan quickly asked. "Not at al
Last Updated : 2025-03-27FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 24: USE WHAT YOU HAVE TO GET WHAT YOU WANT
about the source of his happiness. “I have been observing you for some time and felt compelled to ask what the secret is,” Steven requested. “What secret?” Ethan asked quickly. “The secret to your happiness,” Steven replied. Ethan felt compelled to fabricate a response, aware that Steven disapproved of Angela and their relationship. “Oh, that? It is nothing; I am simply feeling grateful for life,” Ethan lied. “By the way, it has been a month since I last saw your girlfriend Angela after that incident; has she stopped working?” Steven asked. “Haha, she has resigned and is now employed elsewhere,” Ethan laughed and replied. “Alright, I see you are on your computer this afternoon,” Steven remarked. “Yes, I am. Would you like to assist me?” Ethan inquired. “That would be wonderful,” Steven responded enthusiastically. Steven aided him for the third time, and although his eyes remained on Ethan, he had grown accustomed to Steven’s assistance, which alleviated his stress. Wheneve
Last Updated : 2025-03-27FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 25: AN EXQUISITE DESIGNER BOUTIQUE
And why are you seated in this exquisite designer boutique?" Cynthia asked, her curiosity piqued. "Haha! Calm down, my dear friend. I will address all your inquiries, but first, please take a seat," Angela replied with laughter. "Alright, but please begin speaking, as I am eager to learn about this surprise," Cynthia insisted. "Of course. May I offer you a drink?" Angela inquired. "I shall not consume anything until you reveal this surprise," Cynthia insisted. "Very well, I will respond to your questions. First and foremost, I am not engaged; the surprise I referred to on the phone is that this beautiful designer boutique, as you described it, is mine," Angela explained with a smile. Cynthia could scarcely believe her ears and was taken aback. She asked, "Oh my goodness! Are you saying that this stunning designer boutique I admired upon entering belongs to you?" "Yes, that is precisely what I just declared," Angela joyfully confirmed. Cynthia was filled with curiosity, as if s
Last Updated : 2025-03-28FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 26: YOU CAN’T JEOPARDISE THIS HAPPINESS
such an idea? You know me far too well to make such assumptions," Angela replied. "Well, all I am saying is that you have changed. Ever since you began dating Ethan, you have become different and less accessible. What do you expect me to think? Have you forgotten the saying, 'how you dress is how you are addressed'? You have changed, so I momentarily overlooked the fact that I know you so well," Cynthia explained. "Hmm, well, I cannot move in with a man who is not yet my husband. Moreover, it does not sound appealing, and Ethan would not permit me to move in with him; he prefers that I visit for two or three days and then leave. He has previously stated that he would not deny me my independence by keeping me confined in his home without marriage," Angela clarified. "You made a statement that piqued my interest, and I would like to pose a question," Cynthia said. "Very well, I am listening," Angela encouraged. "You mentioned that he prefers you to stay for two or three days a
Last Updated : 2025-03-28
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FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 95: HARPER APPLY THE SKILLS AND INITIATIVE ETHAN ADVISED HIM
"Thank you for your understanding, ma’am," Ethan expressed gratefully as he returned to sit with Harper. Without posing any inquiries to Ethan, Harper erupted into laughter. "Haha, I was aware she would not pay you any attention, and now you have embarrassed yourself. I attempted to dissuade you, but you disregarded my advice. Drink up; let us return home," Harper chuckled while giving instructions. "Hehe, and who claimed she did not give me her attention? Allow me to astonish you; she will be joining us shortly," Ethan retorted. "Are you being serious at this moment?" Harper asked, amused. "Certainly I am," Ethan replied with confidence. "Wow, how did you manage that?" Harper inquired eagerly. "I employed my initiative and the strategies I shared with you," Ethan responded. At that moment, Sophie approached and sat down with them, leaving Harper astounded. "Ethan, I am here," Sophie announced. "Thank you for keeping your word," Ethan expressed his gratitude. Sophie smiled
FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 94: WHAT A NICE GIRL LIKE YOU DOING IN A PLACE LIKE THIS?
all motivated by a desire for tranquility at work, correct?" Harper asked. "Indeed, it was a source of distress for me, as each morning when I awoke and prepared to go to work, I felt a profound sadness knowing that I had an adversary. I was apprehensive that he might choose to eliminate me at some point. However, I was unaware that his intentions would manifest when he drew closer to me. All I desired in my workplace was the freedom to breathe and to feel at ease, without the burden of enemies. This was the reason I accepted his apology and agreed to befriend him immediately," Ethan elucidated. "Is it accurate to say that you chose to embrace a state of peace and naivety towards him solely for the sake of tranquillity?" Harper inquired. "Precisely, although I was unaware of the implications of my actions. Nonetheless, I find myself in a position where I must accept my circumstances," Ethan replied. "Hmm, observe the consequences of your quest for peace of mind," Harper remarked w
FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 93: I HAVE FACED REJECTION FROM SEVEN WOMEN
him until my first promotion, after which everything changed. His behaviour shifted, leading to feelings of animosity and jealousy, and ultimately resulting in my current predicament,” Ethan elaborated. “Please, be gentle with yourself. You earned that promotion through hard work and determination. You erred in befriending your adversary, but as I mentioned, it was not your fault, as you could not have predicted these events,” Harper clarified. "While I acknowledge this, I must question the benefits of the promotions I received; had I not been promoted, none of these events would have transpired," Ethan lamented. "In that scenario, you would have declined the promotions when they were offered to you," Harper asserted. "I made an effort to do so, yet the bank manager insisted that I deserved the advancements. I had no foreknowledge that it would lead to this outcome; had I been aware, I would have persuaded him to confer the promotions upon someone else. I suppose I was merely
FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 92: BUT WHY CAN HUMANITY BE SO CRUEL?
saying, “Here you go.” “Thank you,” Charlotte expressed her gratitude. Ethan nodded as he sat down, and a momentary silence ensued until Charlotte broke it by saying, “Ethan, I wanted to ask how everything transpired between you and Steven.” Ethan feigned ignorance. “What are you referring to?” Ethan questioned. “Well, a month ago, you and two of your friends visited my home seeking information about Steven. When I inquired why you needed such information, you indicated that you suspected he was involved in framing you. I requested feedback, yet I have not heard from you since,” Charlotte elucidated. Ethan found it necessary to prevaricate, as he wished to conceal from Charlotte the fact that Steven was responsible for framing him; he also aimed to prevent her from pursuing legal action against Steven, as he preferred to seek retribution on his own. "Ah, well, we conducted our investigation and discovered that he was not involved. I did not wish to cause you undue stress, which
FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 91: THE DEVIL YOU KNOW IS BETTER THAN THE ANGEL YOU DON’T KNOW
from me," Steven mused to himself. Meanwhile, Angela, intrigued, immediately asked, "My love, what did Steven say he wanted this time?" "Actually, he called me yesterday regarding an issue with his bank manager, and I encouraged him to apologise," Ethan replied. "Hmm, I do not wish to know the specifics of his issue with the bank manager; whatever predicament he finds himself in, he undoubtedly deserves it," Angela remarked. Ethan smiled and said, "My love, please remain calm. I am aware you have a dislike for Steven, and he has indeed received his just desserts. I only wish he would encounter further difficulties at work." "You can say that again," Angela concurred. "Let us take a nap; I am quite exhausted," Ethan suggested. "With pleasure," Angela replied happily. Conversely, Steven remained profoundly distressed, as he aspired to secure a promotion that the bank manager was reluctant to grant. Furthermore, he contemplated ways to dispose of the manager but realised he could
FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 90: STEVEN REMAINS UNAWARE THAT I HAVE REALISED HE WAS THE ONE WHO FRAMED ME
"My love, ignoring her calls will not resolve anything. Simply answer and ascertain the reason for her call, and act as though everything is normal," Angela urged. When Olivia called again, Ethan finally answered. "Hello, dear sister," Ethan greeted. "Good day, big brother. I have been attempting to reach you, but you have not been responding," Olivia retorted. "I apologise for that; I was occupied," Ethan replied. "It has been a while since I heard from you, and you seldom call, so I decided to reach out today to see how you are faring," Olivia said. "I am doing well. And you?" Ethan inquired. "I am faring well, and I am reaching out to you as I require financial assistance for my tuition fees and monthly expenses. I spoke with Father, and he informed me that he has yet to receive his salary, insisting that I contact you," Olivia explained. Upon hearing this, Ethan was taken aback, while Angela subtly encouraged him to continue the conversation. "Um, how much do you
FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 89: A MISTAKE MADE IS ALREADY MADE
which is why I have chosen to withdraw. Since that time, I have been apprehensive about entering another relationship, as I am uncertain of the behaviour the next woman I date may exhibit, and I am unwilling to subject my parents or relatives to further humiliation," Alfie elucidated. "I understand your sentiments, but do not dismiss the possibility that you have yet to encounter the right woman. It is not obligatory to marry anyone you date; take the time to truly understand her before making such a commitment. Moreover, why the urgency to marry?" Ethan inquired. "Ethan, how long should one date a woman before proposing marriage? I was in a relationship with Gloria for a year and with Lucy for eight months. Ultimately, it seems inconsequential. I have come to realise that neither was truly compatible with me, which is why I adhere to the adage, 'Man proposes, God disposes.' However, as I am now in my thirties, I seek companionship and someone to call my own. This is why I desired t
FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 88: HOW DO YOU KEEP ENCOUNTERING SUCH TROUBLESOME WOMEN?
indicating that we would depart at dawn. When I asked why we could not take an evening flight, he mentioned he was expecting someone, to which I agreed and then retired to my room to rest,” Alfie continued. “Please, go on. I am all ears,” Ethan encouraged. The following morning, which was two days prior to my wedding, I awoke and awaited his arrival to call me so we could board our flight back. However, he did not come. Nonetheless, I chose not to disturb him, as I was under the impression that we would be departing from Vancouver that day. Consequently, I picked up my phone and call my fiancée, Lucy, who informed me that she was en route home with her friends. Shortly thereafter, Calvin knocked on my door, expressing a desire to speak with me," Alfie recounted. "What did he say? I trust he has not changed his mind about being your best man?" Ethan inquired eagerly. "Not at all, he had a different matter to discuss," Alfie responded with a laugh. "Very well, what was the nature
FRAMED (THE PAYBACK) CHAPTER 87: MAN PROPOSES, GOD DISPOSES
other four friends arrived and inquired why I had injured Levi, I explained the situation, and when they asked who my fiancée was, I stated it was Gloria. Can you guess what happened next?" Alfie continued his narrative. “What!” Ethan exclaimed. The group erupted into laughter, and one of them named Mike asserted that Levi was indeed correct, claiming he could attest to this because he had been intimate with her on multiple occasions. The other three concurred, laughing heartily as Mike informed me that they all had been involved with her, thereby justifying Levi's label of her as promiscuous, which Alfie recounted with evident sorrow. “Oh my goodness, that is quite troubling. Did you confront her about it?” Ethan inquired. “Indeed, I did, but she denied everything,” Alfie replied. “They will invariably deny such allegations. What actions did you take next?” Ethan pressed. “Well, I informed my friends that they were lying. Mike then reassured me, stating that he would invite her
