All Chapters of FRAMED (THE PAYBACK): Chapter 71 - Chapter 80

As soon as they contacted my father for ransom, the security personnel he had dispatched came to my rescue, apprehending all the kidnappers except for Melody," Jessica explained. "Why was she not apprehended?" Ethan asked. "She was not present at the scene; it appeared she had hidden herself and was observing the situation unfold. To this day, she remains unaccounted for," Jessica clarified. "Remarkable! You mean she simply vanished?" Ethan asked. "Yes, she did. I suspect her disappearance was part of her scheme to make me believe she was not involved. It later came to my attention that she was the one who had orchestrated the initial robbery attempt before she 'rescued' me," Jessica stated. "She certainly possesses considerable acting skills. If you were to encounter her now, how would you respond?" Ethan inquired. "Honestly, I would not retaliate. I am not a malicious person, despite my privileged background; my upbringing instilled in me values of integrity and respect,

"You are welcome," Jessica replied. Ethan continued to admire her apartment, unable to contain himself any longer, and complimented, "My goodness, your apartment is stunning and appears quite expensive." "I am flattered," Jessica said with a smile and a wink. "However, this apartment seems rather extravagant for a teacher whose salary does not justify such a lifestyle, yet you manage to afford it," Ethan conceded. "Hold on a moment, what are you implying?" Jessica giggled. "What I am suggesting is that you are not merely a teacher," Ethan stated. "Then what do you believe I do?" Jessica challenged. "I cannot say for certain, but you are undoubtedly not just a teacher," Ethan declared. "Very well, I see you require proof. Please hold on, and I shall return shortly," Jessica said as she went to retrieve her lesson notes and the textbook she uses for teaching. "This serves as proof of my profession; here are my lesson notes and textbook," Jessica stated as she handed them to him

also aware that Cynthia wished for her relationship with Ethan to falter, but she was determined to prevent that from happening. "It is alright, my dear, I trust you. Additionally, there is one more thing," Angela said. "What is it?" Ethan inquired. "I would like to meet her, and I am curious as to why you referred to her as your mischievous friend," Angela requested. "Very well, you will meet her. However, she expressed a desire to meet you as well and insisted that I introduce her to you in that manner. Your questions were rather unexpected, so that was what came to mind. Indeed, she is quite a humorous individual," Ethan explained. "Wow, so you have even arranged for her to meet me?" Angela asked. "To clarify, my dear, it was entirely her idea, not mine. She intended to meet you one day, but I dissuaded her because I did not wish to hurt your feelings or cause you any distress. I assumed you would not want to meet her, but since you have insisted, I will inform her," Ethan re

a potential partner. I have nothing of substance to offer her," Ethan explained. Alfie then cleared his throat and stated, "To be candid, Ethan, I concur with your perspective. A relationship devoid of financial stability is likely to wither over time, unless one's partner possesses a deep-seated belief in them and a strong conviction that they will eventually recover." "Regardless, as I mentioned earlier, I do not trust her, and I am uncertain who sent her my way; thus, I shall refrain from pursuing any relationship with her," Ethan declared. During their conversation, Harper was absentmindedly stroking his beard before interjecting, "Ethan, this Jessica took you to her apartment, did she not?" "Yes, she did. I mentioned that earlier, but why do you ask?" Ethan retorted. "What was her apartment like?" Harper inquired further. "Her apartment was truly stunning and filled with many luxurious items. At a certain point, I felt overwhelmed by its opulence, yet I had to leave," Ethan

Steven remained silent, his breathing heavy. He clenched his jaw and restrained his right hand with his left, suppressing the urge to strike the manager, as he was overwhelmed with the desire to confront him physically. "Leave my office this instant, before I lose my temper. I do not wish to continue this conversation," the bank manager insisted. Taking a deep breath, Steven departed from the bank manager's office, a mischievous smile tugging at his lips. "Let us see how he copes with the knowledge that he unjustly sacked an innocent individual without conducting a thorough investigation, all in the name of preventing a loss of business. Foolish manager," Steven reflected to himself. Upon returning to his office, he pondered, "I cannot comprehend the situation; it has been three months since Ethan was sacked, and I remain in my previous position, while someone less deserving has been promoted. Despite the bank manager's animosity towards me, I must still convince Ethan to reveal h