Manipulation

Briena noticed how Ivan's gaze lingered on Natalie, even after she had walked away. Bitterness surged through her. 'That bitch, she's trying to seduce Ivan again.'

Briena turned to Ivan. "Seems like she really is on the wrong path, just as my grandma predicted. She's seducing rich men to get investment for her company."

Her words snapped him out of his trance. He clenched his fists. 'So all of this is just to attract rich men? She never put in this kind of effort for me…'

Briena noticed the effect her words had on Ivan and gently took his hands, caressing them softly to comfort him. "Don't feel bad, alright? She probably has no other choice."

Ivan looked at Briena, once again seeing the stark contrast between her and Natalie. Natalie seemed like an entirely new person—someone he barely recognized—while Briena was warm and gentle, always understanding.