Finally, we reached Margot. The bodyguard removed the rope, stepping aside as if presenting me to her like a defeated prize.
Margot’s eyes widened slightly when she saw me, disheveled and bleeding.
“You’re hurt?” she asked, feigning concern. The act was laughable.
I let out a dry chuckle, the corners of my mouth curling into a bitter smirk. “Truly deserving of the Best Actress title. That performance? Flawless.”
Margot frowned, her brow furrowing in what appeared to be confusion. “Frank, what are you—”
Before she could finish, Steven stepped forward, cutting her off with his sickeningly polished smile.
“Oh, I heard about it,” he said casually. “Frank was probably harassed by some of my fans. They can get a little… overzealous sometimes.”
I followed his gaze to the couple’s ring glinting on his finger. My stomach churned. It was the same ring design Margot and I had picked out together, the one she had claimed she 'lost.'
Seeing it on Steven’s hand was the final blow.
“They didn’t mean any harm,” Steven continued, his tone dripping with faux innocence. “They were just upset that Frank hasn’t apologized for the trouble he’s caused. You know how passionate fans can be.”
Then, Steven turned to me, his smile widening. “Frank, why don’t you just apologize now? It’ll clear the air for everyone.”
In the past, Steven’s taunts would’ve ignited a fire in me. I would’ve fought back, argued, and refused to back down. But now, standing there surrounded by disdain and ridicule, I felt nothing but exhaustion.
I glanced at Margot, and her smirk cut deeper than any insult.
My voice was calm, almost eerily so. “Margot, I came here like you asked. I endured everything you planned. I'll go to the hospital now.”
Her frown deepened, but before she could respond, I turned away and started walking toward the exit.
I didn’t make it far.
A strong grip clamped down on my wrist, yanking me back. I stumbled slightly, glaring at the man holding me, who was another of Margot's hired men.
“You haven’t apologized to Steven yet. Where do you think you’re going?” he sneered.
“Let go,” I said coldly, yanking my hand free and turning to leave.
But before I could take another step, a sharp kick landed on my back, sending me sprawling to the floor. Pain shot through my ribs as I gasped for breath.