Chapter 83: A Game of Illusion
by SlivvoThe next morning, Jordan arrived at the office later than usual, walking in at ten o’clock.
He had spent the entire night listening to Rosie sing.
As the melodies of old New York filled the room, Jordan had sipped whiskey, momentarily transported to another time. Rosie’s voice carried a timeless elegance, her performance flawless. If she hadn’t been born into wealth, she would have easily been a star.
Jordan had even recorded a few clips, sending them to both his grandfather and Paul Dubrule.
His grandfather had been impressed, praising Rosie for her classic beauty and charm. Paul Dubrule, on the other hand, had been envious. Jordan knew Paul had long been fond of Rosie, and watching her sing for Jordan must have stung.
But despite all this, nothing happened between them.
Jordan had only made Rosie change into every dress she had brought with her—more out of curiosity than anything else.
He had taken his revenge in the way that mattered. The rumors spreading through Orlando were enough.
As he sat at his desk reviewing documents, a knock sounded at his door.
“Come in.”
Victoria entered, walking confidently towards him. She stopped by his desk, her sharp eyes scanning his face.
“Mr. Steele, there are rumors going around that you slept with Leonard’s wife.”
Jordan didn’t even look up from the file in his hand. “Oh? Well, Rosie Huxley did spend the night at my place.”
That was the answer he wanted circulating.
His reputation mattered. If people saw him as a cuckold, it would damage his standing. Let them believe what they wanted. Let Tyler Collins live with the idea that Jordan had taken his mother.
Victoria tilted her head. “And did you?”
Jordan finally set his pen down, a smirk playing on his lips. “No, I just had her sing for me all night. I don’t like older women.”
For a moment, Victoria seemed satisfied. But then, her expression subtly changed.
Jordan blinked, suddenly realizing his mistake.
Victoria was older than him.
He quickly added, “But that doesn’t apply to you. You’re only thirty, and we’re practically the same age. Women in their thirties are my favorite.”
Victoria’s mood instantly brightened. “Really?”
Jordan nodded.
Victoria had always been confident, but she was also aware that younger women were often favored by powerful men. If she had any doubts about how Jordan saw her, they were gone now.
Seizing the moment, she leaned on his desk. “Have dinner with me tonight,” she said smoothly. “You’re divorced. Hailey regrets everything. You’ve humiliated Tyler and taken your revenge. Let’s celebrate.”
Jordan shook his head. “I can’t. I have an appointment with Hailey tonight.”
Victoria’s brow furrowed. “You’re still interested in her?”
Jordan sighed. “It’s not about interest. It’s about principle.”
Victoria crossed her arms. “Because you found out she never actually slept with Tyler?”
Jordan’s gaze darkened. “No. What bothers me isn’t what happened with Tyler—it’s how quickly she changed when she found out who I was.”
Victoria smirked, instantly understanding.
“So, what’s tonight’s appointment about?”
Jordan leaned back in his chair. “I hid the truth from Hailey for three years. Whether I like it or not, that wasn’t fair to her. Tonight, I plan to make it up to her.”
Victoria’s amusement only grew. “Make it up to her?” She chuckled. “How?”
“I’m introducing her to someone.”
At that, Victoria burst into laughter. “Oh, this is going to be good.”
The Times Restaurant – 8:00 PM
The Times was one of Orlando’s most elegant restaurants, known for its duck confit and truffle pasta. It had been one of Hailey’s favorites when she was married to Jordan.
Tonight, Jordan had booked a private room.
Inside, only two other people were waiting—Butler Frank and his grandson, Greyson Reyes.
“Mr. Jordan,” Butler Frank greeted, standing as Jordan entered.
His grandson, Greyson, nodded respectfully but remained seated. He had no choice. He was in a wheelchair.
In the Parking Lot
Hailey was sitting in Rachel’s car, anxiously checking the time.
“It’s eight o’clock. I should go in,” she said impatiently. “Why aren’t you letting me?”
Rachel leaned back, unbothered. “Why the rush? You used to make Jordan wait half an hour when you went on dates.”
Hailey frowned. “That was before. Things have changed. He’s the president of Ace Corporation now—you think I should still make him wait!?”
Rachel smirked. “If I let you arrive too early, it’d be worse. He’d be reminded of how you used to treat him. And if you arrive too late, it’ll seem like you’re desperate to please him now that he’s rich.”
Hailey sighed, knowing Rachel had a point.
She checked her reflection in the mirror.
Her green floral dress was elegant, exuding an innocent charm. She had chosen it carefully, knowing Jordan liked this style.
She looked pure, unstained, just the way he liked.
Rachel finally nodded. “Alright. It’s time. Go in there and conquer him. I’m waiting to attend your wedding.”
Hailey smiled confidently. “Don’t worry. I’ve got this.”
Inside the Private Room
As Hailey pushed open the door, three pairs of eyes turned to her.
Her soft green dress, her demure expression, the way she hesitated slightly before stepping inside—it all created the image of a delicate, innocent woman.
“Jordan,” she greeted, her voice gentle.
The moment she noticed the others in the room, she paused, lowering her gaze as if suddenly shy.
Jordan smiled. “Here you are.”
He gestured towards the two men. “Let me introduce you. This is Butler Frank Reyes. He may be a butler, but he watched me grow up, and I consider him family.”
Hailey’s heart soared.
He’s introducing me to the butler of the Steeles?
Does this mean he’s ready to take me back?
Is he making me the future mistress of the Steele family?!
On the surface, she remained composed, but inside, she was already celebrating.
Butler Frank stepped forward, smiling warmly. “Miss Camden, it’s a pleasure to meet you. You truly are stunning. In my seventy years, I’ve never seen a woman more beautiful.”
Hailey’s confidence skyrocketed.
Even Jordan’s trusted butler approves of me!
She had won.
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