Chapter 356
“That is Bella and my private matters. No one else has the right to interfere. She’s started a new life, so please stop bringing up her past connection to me,” Justin said sternly.
Zoe’s heartbeat pounded like a drum, resentment building. The undertone of Justin’s words. was clearly speaking in defense of Bella. ‘He was protecting her privacy, wasn’t he?’
“Ada Wang has left. If you don’t want to perform for the guests tonight, I can send you home. at any time.”
Justin looked away from Zoe’s pale face, pulled back his arm, and left without as much as a second glance. Ian clicked his tongue twice, contemptuously stealing a glance at Zoe. He could not help but wonder if this girl with a sharp tongue was really Ryan’s younger sister. Somehow, she seemed a bit irritating, almost like she was asking for trouble.
“Justin! Justin! Justin Salvador!”
The first two calls went unanswered. Justin did not stop until Zoe used his full name.
“Are you defending Bella because you’ve fallen in love with her? Are you still not over her?” Her voice trembled with anger.
“No, I don’t love her,” Justin replied without hesitation, as if he were afraid that even the slightest delay would reveal some truth he was not aware of.
“Then why do you keep speaking up for her? She doesn’t love you. She toyed with you, took what belongs to you, and then ruined the banquet you’ve worked hard to arrange!”
“She’s rotten to the core! She’s caused nothing but harm to you. Why do you side with her?” Zoe’s voice became increasingly hysterical as she spoke.
She did not have Rosalind’s skill at disguising her emotions. After all, being the cherished daughter of the Hoffman family, Zoe had always gotten whatever she desired. So, she spoke her mind and did as she pleased. Now, for the first time, she had a taste of frustration.
The closer she tried to get to Justin, the more he seemed to retreat, distancing himself from her. When he turned to look at her, his gaze was almost devoid of any warmth.
“You’ve never been married. You probably don’t understand the respect that couples have for each other. Bella was my wife once, so I showed her mercy. What’s the problem with that?” His words pierced through Zoe like an arrow to the heart.
“Even if I don’t love her, she was once my wife. I’m the only one who can speak poorly of her. No one else has that right.”