Chapter 15 A Chance Encounter Johnson was our company's Marketing Director . He greeted us warmly and playfully pinched Ava's cheeks when he saw us . In a way , Johnson took my role by taking charge of the company's marketing department . I was the one who brought him into the company , and he worked under me for over a year . Back then , the marketing department focused mainly on sales , consisting of just five people . Johnson was a quick - witted college graduate who was a natural at marketing . He had a silver tongue that could convince anyone of anything . He took over my position when I got pregnant while Matthew nurtured him . 3 I knew Johnson frequented this place because he arranged a private room for us with the restaurant manager's help . It was evident he was much more considerate than Matthew . 2 Melanie was also familiar with Johnson as the two exchanged glances while Johnson ordered the food . Meanwhile , I didn't pay much attention to the order and went straight into the private room since I knew Matthew wouldn't let me or Ava down in that aspect . 4 Soon after , Johnson followed us into the room . Since it had been a while since I last saw him , I gestured for him to sit and chat . I asked him how the company was doing , and he discreetly responded while glancing at Matthew occasionally . I knew the Johnson in front of me differed from the one I had recruited long ago . Indeed , times had changed , and it was no surprise since Matthew was now the boss . In Johnson's eyes , I was just a former boss past her prime and inferior to the current company president . I didn't fault Johnson for that , but seeing it was still disheartening . 7 I had become an antique in the Tanum Corporation . It was flattering whenever people called me " Madam , " but ultimately , it was just a respectful form of address . I figured people would stop acknowledging me if Matthew and I parted ways one day . 2 After all , even Matthew had already forgotten about all my contributions to the company . Who would remember the woman who started Tanum Corporation and bled for it ? It was a depressing thought as I had worked nonstop back then . 8 However , that chapter had long ended , and the fruits of my labor were not mine to enjoy anymore . Although people continued singing praises , no one knew my pain as it was my burden alone . 2 I realized how fickle the world was . At that moment , I had become even more convinced of one thing . No one would look out for me , so I needed to care for myself . I thought it was better to be safe than sorry , which made my heart ache again . 3 Could Matthew be so ruthless ? I was still in disbelief and held some hope for the difficult times we shared . I only wanted him to remember what we had gone through together , regardless of whether or not I got the credit . 2 I would like to believe he wasn't that heartless . Meanwhile , Johnson discreetly excused himself when the food arrived . 1 Matthew's phone kept ringing during the meal . Most of the calls were about business , but there was one call where he glanced at me before going outside to answer it . My body tensed as I watched him leave . 3 I excused myself to the restroom and saw Matthew talking on the phone in the corridor , constantly responding with " Mmm . " 3 1/2 Chapter 15 A Chance Encounter +25 BONUS The familiar scene reminded me of his video call with me in the hotel a few days ago . He noticed me coming out and hastily told the person on the other end , " All right , let's do it that way then . Just make sure the quality is good . The material isn't a problem . You decide . " 2 When he hung up the phone , I walked past him and went to the bathroom . Although it sounded like a business call , I wondered why he had to leave and talk outside . s As I washed my hands , Matthew appeared outside the door and said , " A client called me about the used materials . " " Isn't that Johnson's responsibility ? Why did they call you instead ? " I grabbed a tissue while looking at his reflection in the mirror . 2 " Oh , a long - time client is renovating their home , " Matthew answered vaguely . 1 " I see . I'm going to use the restroom , so you should go and check on Ava , " I said this to ensure Melanie wouldn't bully my daughter . 1 Matthew pulled me close , kissed me , and returned to the private room . Soon after , I smiled bitterly and headed to the restroom . 1 However , before I could finish using the bathroom stall , I heard footsteps , indicating that two more people had entered the bathroom . 4