Chapter 3 Outburst

• "Ged, your help means a lot," Daphne said.
• She fought the urge to slap him and mustered a smile.
• "Don't mention it. It's just a small thing. Our kids' education is crucial," Ged replied.
• "You know that, without the unified certificate, it's challenging to get into a top-notch elementary school."
• He casually rubbed Daphne's thigh as he spoke.
• "Absolutely, Tahlia will start first grade next year. I need to get her into a prestigious school.
• "I owe it to your assistance," Daphne said, trying to sidestep Ged's advances.
• To avoid further discomfort, Daphne stood up and raised her glass.
• "Cheers to you."
• Ged was Daphne's high school buddy and is currently serving as the vice team leader in the personnel team of the Education Department.
• While his role wasn't the highest, the personnel department wielded considerable influence, especially in dealings with school authorities.
• Living outside the school district, Daphne was keen to secure a spot in a top elementary school for Tahlia, who would be starting first grade soon. So, she invited Ged to dinner, hoping to tap into their shared past and connections.
• To her surprise, Ged's behaviour took a turn after a couple of drinks.
• "Daphne, you're too formal.
• "We were classmates for three years in high school. Our bond is strong, and I'll definitely help you out.
• "Come, have a seat."
• Ged smiled as he took Daphne's hand and urged her to sit down.
• Though a flicker of disgust crossed her face, Daphne restrained herself.
• "Are you free tonight, Daphne? Let's catch up properly.
• "It's the middle of the day, and it's not the right time now.
• "I can't drink much, and I have work later," Ged suggested, still smiling.
• Tonight?
• What plans does this jerk have for tonight?
• Daphne cursed silently, sensing Ged's intentions. She suspected agreeing to meet him in the evening would lead to an uncomfortable situation—perhaps an invitation to spend the night at a hotel.
• No longer the naive young woman she once was, Daphne saw right through Ged's motives and his suggestive looks.
• But she needed his assistance, so she pushed down her anger.
• "Ged, I've got plans tonight. Thanks for helping out with my daughter," Daphne said.
• She pulled out an envelope from her bag, visibly stuffed with cash.
• "This is just a little something to show my appreciation. No strings attached."
• Ged took the envelope and gave it a thoughtful glance. It probably held around 1,500 dollars.
• "1,500 dollars?" he asked.
• Worried it might not be enough, Daphne quickly added, "Yeah, 1,500 dollars. Money's tight for me. I know getting into a top school is tough, and your help means a ton. You're a lifesaver."
• "I'm not in it for the money. It means nothing to me." Ged returned the envelope.
• Daphne was surprised. Is Ged genuinely generous?
• "We're adults now. You know what I want."
• Ged got straight to the point. He'd had feelings for Daphne since high school, drawn to her beauty and prestige. Back then, he kept his feelings hidden.
• But now, with Daphne, she was as beautiful as before. She was seeking his aid, and her family was no longer shielding her. Ged decided to pursue what he truly desired.
• Daphne's expression shifted as Ged revealed his intentions. This man wasn't interested in her money; he wanted her.
• "Daphne, I'm doing you a favour here.
• "If your kid can't get into a top school, she'll end up in a lower-quality one, mixing with kids from less affluent families. It could affect her future, you know, since 'birds of a feather flock together,'" Ged said casually.
• He swirled his wine glass. He wore the expression of someone who believed he was a saint by helping Daphne out.
• Daphne stayed silent; her brow furrowed in thought.
• "Enough with the pretense that you aren't willing to do it.
• "I'm offering my assistance, which is more than reasonable.
• "Is it too much to ask for a little something in return? You should have been aware of your child's nature."
• Ged perceived Daphne's behaviour as pretentious, his lip curling in disdain.
• "What exactly are you insinuating, Ged?" Daphne's expression turned sour.
• "Your child doesn't have a father, correct? She's the product of some offense against you," Ged teased.
• "Honestly, you should have disposed of this child a long time ago. Everyone in our circle is aware that you're raising an illegitimate child. You've become a joke.
• "I allowed you to please me because we are high school classmates. Why are you still pretending to be virtuous and innocent? Do you still consider yourself the esteemed daughter of the Lewis family?"
• "Whether my child is illegitimate is none of your business. And your language is offensive."
• Daphne flung the red wine directly at Ged's face.
• "B*tch! How dare you throw wine in my face?"
• Enraged, Ged rose and slapped Daphne across the face.
• "Outrageous! You're nothing but a sl*t. You'd rather endure a violation than let me have my way with you. Do you realise who I am? I'm the team leader."
• He seized Daphne's hair from behind and roared, "It seems like you want it the hard way. Today, I'll get what I want from you."
• Suddenly, the door to the private room burst open as someone kicked it in.
• Maxwell strode into the room.
• Ged immediately stopped his action. When he saw him, his mind raced with questions. Why was this person here, and why wear a glove on such a warm day? Was he out of his senses?
• "Is it really you?"
• Daphne's heart pounded fiercely when she saw Maxwell's face, her voice trembling with disbelief.
• Even after six years, his image remained vivid in her memory.
• He was the one who shattered her entire life.
• Wasn't he supposed to be dead? How could he still be alive?
• "Daphne, I've returned to you. I'm sorry for all the suffering you've endured over these years." Maxwell's voice held a mix of remorse and determination.
• Though Maxwell couldn't see Daphne's expression, he could imagine the turmoil she must be feeling.
• "Are you the man who fathered Daphne's b*astard all those years ago?"
• Ged interjected instinctively upon hearing their conversation.
• "B*stard?"
• Maxwell's rage flared instantly.
• Within a blink of an eye, he seized Ged by the neck with his gloved left hand, lifting him up menacingly. "What did you just say?"
• Daphne gasped at the scene, her eyes wide with astonishment, bewildered by the sudden turn of events.
• Ged's eyes bulged, his face turning crimson as he struggled for breath. He desperately clung to the life evident as his eyes rolled back.
• Daphne snapped out of her reverie, noticing Ged's pallid complexion as he struggled to breathe. Hastily, she intervened to stop Maxwell's grip on Ged, who was gasping for air.
• "Maxwell, let go of him. He's dying," Daphne pleaded, her voice tinged with urgency.
• Maxwell released his hold on Ged's neck.
• Ged crumpled to the floor, wheezing for breath. He glared at Maxwell, a mixture of fury and fear in his eyes.
• "You insult my child and torment my woman! You deserve to die," Maxwell proclaimed, his voice firm with resolve.
• With a swift and forceful kick, Maxwell sent Ged crashing into the wall with a resounding thud.
• Ged writhed in agony, his body tearing apart as tears threatened to spill.
• "Maxwell, you're despicable!"
• Daphne's fury erupted as she slapped Maxwell across the face.
• "You've lost your mind! He works in the Education Department."
• After six years of absence, Maxwell suddenly reappeared, once again targeting Ged.
• Daphne's heart sank at the thought of the consequences. If Ged were to seek retribution, it could jeopardize Tahlia's future schooling.
• Why have you come back, Maxwell?"
• Her previously calm heart now churned with turmoil at Maxwell's unexpected return.
• Is he here to reclaim Tahlia?