Chapter20 Seeing me remain silent , Alicia tilted her head , scrutinizing my face . Ive been wanting to say this since we first met , she said . Dont you think we look alike ? Feeling utterly ashamed and humiliated , I had to run away under her triumphant gaze . Back in the private room , my colleagues warm greetings finally made me feel better . As I was about to shake off the frustration , the door burst open . Antonio paused , surprised by the packed room , and then his eyes found me . There was a storm brewing in them , but I couldnt figure out why . He balled his fists and called my name , demanding I step outside . I followed him , puzzled , but got slapped across the face in the hallway . It was the first time he had ever done this to me . He met my shocked look with fury , no trace of guilt . Why did you push Alicia ? You knew her ankle was hurt . Ive told you I would explain later . Why were you so aggressive ? My cheek stung with pain . Alicia was limping toward us , her shirt crumpled and dirty . I tried to explain , but she fell to the ground . Antonio pushed me away and rushed to her side , holding her in his arms . What are you doing here ? he asked , sounding worried . I was going to bring her to apologize to you . Alicia shook her head , her eyes red . Its okay . Its not a big deal . She didnt mean it . Dont be too hard on her . If Freddy knew you hurt his sister , he might get angry with you . At the mention of Freddy , Antonios eyes flickered with unease . But when he looked at Alicia , he grew furious again . Freddy entrusted her to me . If she did something wrong , I gotta set her straight , he stated . I scoffed and couldnt help asking , What exactly did I do ? You need proof for an accusation . Youre just throwing charges at me and even getting physical . Isnt that a bit unfair ? Antonio clenched his fists , his gaze piercing as he accused , You knew the bathroom was a blind spot with no cameras , so you started a fight , right ? I felt both amused and heartbroken . Since there are no cameras , how can you pin this on me ? Are you implying Alicia is setting you up ? Theres no reason for her to do that . Plus , Ive known her for years . Shes not a liar , said Antonio . You mean Im a liar ? I asked . We had been together for seven years , and I figured Antonio would have some trust in me . But with Alicia around , it was like those years meant nothing . A mere sentence from her was enough to convict me . There was Chapter20 no chance for me to defend myself . It was just plain favoritism . In the end , I was nothing more than a substitute . There was no use in fighting it , so I ignored Antonios cursing and walked away . I had a slap mark on my cheek , and I didnt want to bring everyone down , so I didnt head back to the private room . I went to the front desk , settled the bill , and texted everyone that I had to leave due to an urgent matter , but they should have a good time . The bill was on me .
