Chapter 9

Michael's face went dark real quick. Joseph Anderson, like he could read minds, chuckled, "Found out about your divorce online. So, how's it feel getting played?"

Michael, teeth clenched, spat out, "Get lost."

Joseph sighed, "Rachel's a gem. You never saw it. She stuck with you for six years; anyone else would've bailed ages ago."

Michael, frowning, shot back, "Never liked her."

Joseph raised an eyebrow, smirking, "Yeah, yeah, you're into Mandy, right?" He'd met Mandy back in college and knew she was trouble from the get-go. But Michael? Clueless.

Joseph had always thought highly of Rachel. She was good to Michael, ran the Smith Family's stuff like a pro, and never complained. What a waste.

Michael's face got even darker, "Did you call just to rub it in?"

Joseph laughed, "Nah, just wanted to let you know your ex splurged big time to book the whole first floor of Neon Entertainment Hub. She even invited me to her party. Anyway, gotta go; there's a dance to catch." He hung up. Michael stared at his phone for a sec, then went back to his paperwork like nothing happened.

But then, David barged in, "Mr. Smith, Mrs. Catherine Smith is back."

Meanwhile, Rachel had a plan with her invite to Joseph. Not many knew he was the deputy mayor's second son, mostly doing business overseas. He was back, trying to land a deal with Skyline Corporation, but the board wasn't impressed.

Rachel saw her chance. She moved through the room, confident smile, wine glass in hand. She walked up to Joseph, "Mr. Anderson, it's been a year, and you're still as handsome as ever."

Joseph, with those killer eyes and easy smile, replied, "Miss Williams, you never fail to impress. Hard to believe the stunning, sexy, and sophisticated woman here is the same one I met two years ago."

Rachel swirled her wine, smile steady, "People change, Joseph. Always looking ahead, right?"

Joseph leaned in, playful but curious, "Not sure I get it. Inviting me, Michael's buddy—are you into my good looks, Miss Williams?"

Rachel knew his teasing game and played along. She leaned closer, whispered something spicy in his ear. Joseph's playful look turned serious real quick.

"A smart woman like you," he said, "Michael's gonna regret letting you go."

Rachel's smile dimmed a bit, irritation showing, "Michael's old news. Let's not bring him up."

"Fair enough," Joseph smirked. "From now on, I'll be closer to you than him. So, how about a dance, beautiful Miss Williams?" He held out his hand, but a new voice cut in.

Robert, with his long strides and a juice glass, interrupted without even looking at Joseph. He swapped Rachel's wine for the juice, gently saying, "Rachel, too much wine will just give you a headache."

To Joseph's surprise, Rachel didn't fight it and took the juice. Joseph eyed Robert, taking in his striking looks and commanding vibe. No wonder he was a famous supermodel.

Joseph could already see Michael kicking himself for letting a woman like Rachel go.