Laura’s Victory Second Chance

Chapter 26

Evan sneered, “Typical. The most dangerous thing in the world is a woman’s heart. If this isn’t all part of your plan, I don’t think anyone would buy

it.”

Laura smiled sweetly, her charm captivating many of the men watching. They couldn’t help but think, ‘Wow, she’s stunning!‘

“Mr. Quinn, are you in or out?”

“Fine, I accept. If my buddy really did something like this, I must be blind. And kneeling on a durian? That won’t hurt me.”

“Great, then it’s settled. Everyone here will be our witnesses.”

“I’ll take your bet, but let’s be real—the only one who’s likely to lose is you.” Evan knew Robert well and trusted Robert’s character; Robert never got casual with women, nor did he ever hire companionship when he went out.

Robert wanted to interject, but speaking up would give everything away. Besides, Olivia’s claim that they were drugged muddled everything. Without proof, who could argue otherwise? He kept quiet, holding onto a sliver of hope.

But the thought of Laura possibly losing and having to kneel and call herself a bitch twisted his stomach. Deep down, he knew he owed her better. He felt resentment for how things had turned out, but he couldn’t step in and protect her now.

This mess was ugly, and Laura had chosen public confrontation, embarrassing Robert, Olivia, and the two families. ‘If she caused the trouble, maybe she deserves to face the consequences, he thought grimly.

Laura had completely given up on Robert. She had endured so much just to get to this point. “Robert, I’ll give you one last chance. If you explain everything publicly, I can save you from this humiliation.”

She wasn’t saying this out of pity; it was about her past feelings for him. She had loved Robert deeply and didn’t want that love to end up looking pathetic.

Robert’s mind raced. Laura clearly had more evidence than he realized. But maybe her words were just a trap meant to reveal him. Evan had just backed him up; he couldn’t embarrass his buddy in front of everyone.

‘Laura has changed. She isn’t the girl I once knew. Is it all because of that other guy?‘ The thought stirred up both anger and jealousy inside him, even as Laura stood there shining.

“Lau, how can you doubt my feelings? Without any drugs, how could I betray you like that? You’re the one I love the most.”

Laura wanted to slap herself, thinking, “What have I ever seen in Robert? Just his looks? Easton is way more attractive!

No matter how much she thought about it, she couldn’t understand why she had once loved Robert so intensely, even going so far as to donate a kidney to him in her previous life.

If she could somehow transfer her current mindset back then, she wouldn’t have even paid much attention to Robert, even if he offered her a kidney for free. In her mind, he and Olivia were made for each other–despicable and irresponsible.

Evan said with disdain, “You’re wearing a dress from someone else, and accepting gifts from another man. Everyone knows your infidelity. I can’t wait to see how you’ll twist the truth here.”

Olivia suddenly remembered the last time she had seen Laura outside the storage room. She thought, ‘If Laura had arrived just a bit earlier back then, she would have evidence of Robert and me. Damn it, Laura is so cunning, holding back proof instead of revealing everything at once.

The more Olivia thought about it, the more she realized that Laura had probably been plotting against her from the start. She must have anticipated Olivia’s reactions all along. That’s why she was taking her time, slowly pushing her closer to the edge.

Realization hit Olivia hard, and she started to sweat, thinking, ‘I can’t stay here any longer; Ill be finished if I do.’ She clasped her chest, pretending to struggle to breathe.

“Liv, you look really pale. What’s going on?” Emma asked, concern etched on her face.

“Mom,” Olivia whispered, “I have a heart condition, and it feels like I’m having an episode. I’m in so much pain.”

Heart conditions are serious. I’m taking you to the hospital right now,” Emma insisted. This was also her chance to exit; once the lawyer arrived, things would get even messier.

Just then, Laura stepped in front of them, blocking their path. “Olivia, your timing is quite convenient.” She knew this tactic all too well–an excuse

Olivia often used. Laura had been through it many times in her previous life and saw the layers behind it.

David scowled at Laura and said, “Olivia needs medical attention. Can’t whatever you want to say wait until she’s better?”

“Dad, I know how to help her, Laura replied coolly. “Olivia is tougher than all of you. Plus, this stage is set up for a reason. If the performers walk

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Chapter 26

off, what will the audience do?”

Laura’s indifference fueled David’s and Emma’s anger. “Get out of the way! If something happens to Olivia, who’s going to take the blame?”

“I will!” Laura shot back, stepping closer to Olivia. “Olivia, aren’t you the actress? I can’t wait to see your next performance.”

“Laura, I know I’ve done wrong, and it’s understandable that you hate me. But I genuinely have a heart condition. When I come back, I’ll accept any punishment you give me.”

Laura sneered, “No need to rush. Let’s see the drama unfold before you leave.”

Olivia’s face grew even paler. Emma tried to pull her away forcefully. “Laura, don’t make me hate you!”

Those words felt like a knife to Laura’s heart. She whispered, “Mom, if you can’t love me, then hating me is fine; it doesn’t change anything for me.” Evan and others were outraged. “Laura, saving a life is a top priority! Olivia is clearly in trouble; just look at her. Let her through.”

“Exactly, this is serious. Even minor heart issues can be a big deal,” someone else added.

Laura remained calm. “I’ve invited a guest to help. Dr. Hammond, would you please step in?”

In a corner, unnoticed by most, a man in a white suit and black bow tie got up, holding a cocktail.

Gasps filled the room. “It’s Dr. Hammond, the famous heart surgeon!”

At just thirty years old, Joshua Hammond was a renowned expert, with an unblemished record, and everyone in the room recognized him.

“Dr. Hammond is known for being selective. Many wealthy families have tried to get him, but he’s turned them down. For him to come to Laura’s party? She must have quite the pull!”

Joshua approached, medical bag in hand. “Is Ms. Sharpe feeling unwell? I might not be the best, but I can take a look.”