"Whether I'm being disrespectful or not, it's hardly the first time, Mr. Lewis. If there's nothing else, please return to your office. I still have documents to review," Chloe replied with a light laugh. "I really need to dedicate time to analyzing Lewis Group's operational data from recent years." Seeing her dismissive attitude, Scott left in frustration. Watching his retreating figure, Chloe's eyes darkened. Scott, you've always considered yourself so shrewd, but in the end, your life is rather pathetic. After leaving Chloe's office, Scott returned to his own. Surrounded by stacks of documents and partnership proposals, his mind remained unsettled. He couldn't concentrate. Remembering Chloe's words, he hesitated. Monique's attitude toward him had grown colder lately. Ever since he transferred shares to Chloe, Monique had made his life difficult. Now Chloe was managing Lewis Group—albeit on a one-month probation to prove herself. If she could truly turn the company around, he would be relieved. After all, she was his daughter. Despite their conflicts, he would be glad if she could shoulder the company's responsibilities. But he had no idea how much more trouble Monique might cause. Scott decided to head home early. He had his driver bring the car around, hoping to smooth things over with Monique. On the way, he stopped at a jewelry store and bought a limited-edition diamond necklace, then ordered a bouquet of roses. During the drive, Scott reflected on recent years. His focus had been entirely on the company. He tried hard to steer it back on track, but his energy was limited. He had managed the business but neglected his family. Chloe had been away all those years, and he, as her father, hadn't paid her enough attention. He genuinely wished for family harmony—for Chloe and Carolyn to get along like sisters. But what exactly should he do? Arriving home, Scott quietly instructed the staff not to announce his return, wanting to surprise Monique himself. Unfortunately, when he carefully opened their bedroom door, she wasn't there. Monique wasn't home at all."Where is Monique?" he asked a housemaid. "Mrs. Lewis said earlier she was going for a walk in the garden. She should have returned by now. We've been busy and didn't notice." Scott wasn't satisfied with the reply. How could a walk take this long? Worried, he called Monique, but the phone rang repeatedly without an answer. Looking at the disconnected call, Scott's expression darkened. He sat on the living room sofa, deciding to wait for her return. In the past, Monique had always been diligent in managing the household. She would inform him when she went out. Why would a simple walk keep her away so long today? What Scott didn't know was that Monique was in no state to answer the phone. Her phone lay discarded on a side table in a nearby apartment. A trail of scattered clothing—both men's and women's—led from the entryway toward the bedroom. Monique and Ernesto were entangled in bed, wrapped up in each other. Finally, as their passion subsided, Monique lay flushed against Ernesto's chest. "So, can that old fool Scott satisfy you like this?" Ernesto said smugly. "Monique, your appetite is something else! I really have to put in extra effort to keep up!" Monique swatted away his wandering hand. She had been in a foul mood and sought solace with Ernesto. "Cut it out. I'm irritated. I think I heard the phone earlier—I should check who called," Monique said, attempting to rise. "What's the rush? We're just getting started. I'm not nearly done, and there's no way you're satisfied already," Ernesto replied, pulling her back into his embrace. "Let me finish this cigarette, then we'll go again." "Get lost. What if it was Scott calling?" Monique's face fell. "I just told the staff I was going for a walk. Who knew I'd end up in your bed?" "Just means my bed is more interesting, doesn't it?" Ernesto held her tighter, a smirk on his lips. "That old man Scott is becoming harder to deal with. I can't believe he actually let that girl Chloe into the company as VP. What nonsense!" Monique was already upset about Chloe's appointment. Hearing Ernesto mention it fueled her anger further. "That old fool. I'll make him regret it sooner or later," Monique snorted. "Handing over such a huge chunk of shares just like that! I've stuck by him all these years, putting up with his garbage, and all I got was a lousy slice—not even a tenth of what that little witch walked away with." "Don't be angry. Lewis Group will be ours eventually. Chloe is causing chaos as soon as she takes office. I'm waiting to see how far she can push things," Ernesto remarked. "I should thank her for all this mess. The more turmoil she stirs up at Lewis Group, the more the shareholders will revolt. When the time comes, I can simply sweep in and take it all for myself."