Accused of Seduction, I Turned the Tables

...

Lauren appeared, raising an eyebrow. "Uncle Tom? Trying to cozy up to my dad?"

She studied my face and yelped, "Or are you planning to seduce him with that pretty face?"

I stared at her, noting her striking resemblance to Tom, and said calmly, "When your heart's corrupt, everything looks dirty."

A sharp slap landed heavily on my face. I turned my head instinctively, my cheek burning.

Lauren shook her hand and raised her chin. "Who do you think you are, talking to me like that? A nobody manager! I could crush you with one finger. If you want to keep your job, apologize to me now."

I clutched my stinging cheek, fury rising. I was managing this shop because my dad wanted me to prove myself by boosting sales before taking over the company. I never expected to be humiliated by an imposter.

Losing no time, I made a call. "Dad, I'm being trampled by a fraud."

Before I could finish, Lauren grabbed my hair, yanking hard. "Who are you calling a fraud? You're the one pretending to be daddy's girl!"

Pain seared my scalp, and I cried out.

James stood by, making no move to stop Lauren. Instead, he fawned over her. "Careful, Ms. Miller, don't hurt yourself."

To me, he barked, "Jennifer, apologize now!"

Even a worm would turn, and I had never been known for my patience. I twisted a soft spot on her arm, and she yelped, "You witch, how dare you fight back!"

The commotion alarmed the staff, and Matteo rushed up. "Lauren? What are you doing here?"

He stepped between us, his voice hoarse. "Lauren, stop this. I need this job. My mom is counting on me for her medical bills."

She glared at him and spewed venom. "Are you working here for your dying mom or this tramp? Cross me, and I'll cut off her medicine!"

Matteo's pride flared. "You always threaten me with this. Why don't I just wear a leash and be your dog?"

Lauren sneered, slapping him across the face. "You are my dog!"

She pulled out her phone and ordered, "Stop Pamela Velez's medicine!"

Turning back to him, she scoffed, "I'd like to see how long you can tough it up."

Matteo's eyes reddened, his voice breaking. "Lauren, I was wrong."

Unable to bear the sight, I yanked him up. "I'm the one funding your mom's treatment. My dad is the real investor in this company. Lauren is just the daughter of his driver."

Lauren cackled, "Have you lost it? Everyone knows the biggest investor is a Miller. You, a Sargent, think you're his daughter? You need a lesson!"

She raised her foot to kick me, but a figure dashed out to stop her.

I looked up and met Tom's eyes.