In the Name of the Small Chapter 2

Perhaps my death was too unjust, because my soul didn't scatter.

It drifted away from our home, through the crowds and the buildings, until I found myself at Sebastian’s side.

He was in his office. His assistant stood before him, suit immaculate, but with a faint flush of alcohol on his cheeks. They must have just come from a business dinner.

"Mr. Croft," the assistant said, beaming. "With this new contract, our company's cash flow is secure. I'd like to see that old bastard, Ally’s father, try to threaten you with pulling his investment now."

The Shen family. Ally’s family. One of the city’s most powerful dynasties, with money, connections, and influence that ran deep. Sebastian’s first venture fund had come from them. He had always been grateful for their trust, even giving Ally’s father a stake in the company when it took off.

Only later did he realize the investment was just a tool. Ally’s father had backed him because Ally wanted him.

"It’s disgusting," the assistant continued, his voice laced with contempt. "You’re a married man, but they keep forcing you into these dinners with her. No shame at all. And when you refuse, her father conspires with other firms to cut off our supply chain. If she were such a prize, why hasn't anyone else married her? She's a spoiled, arrogant brat. She can't hold a candle to your wife."

My heart, or what was left of it, clenched.

Sebastian’s brow furrowed. He shot his assistant a cold look. The assistant blinked, confused, then asked, "Sir, your wife wasn't too upset about this business trip, was she…?"

Sebastian froze for a second. When he spoke, his voice was stiff. "She has a gentle nature. She doesn't get angry with me."

The assistant’s smile was knowing. He saw right through the lie.

First, my fiery temper was legendary. Second, it was no secret that we bickered constantly. Third, the assistant knew for a fact that I had kicked Sebastian out of the house after a massive fight right before he left.

And the fight had been about Ally.