The Loyal Puppet: A Love Built on Lies novel Chapter 4

Chloe had dealt with Collins for a while.

At first, it was just inappropriate jokes, little ‘accidental' touches.

Then the smiles—smug, condescending.

She had thought about telling Mason.

He could've handled Collins easily.

But Mason was the one who introduced her to him in the first place.

Would he believe her?

Or would he just think she was making things up?

Mason always told her, "Chloe, don't take yourself so seriously."

"When I give you attention, take it. Don't overthink it."

A bitter smile tugged at her lips. Yeah. Better to just keep quiet.

And so she had. Until today.

As for that night—when Mason left her stranded to be with Ava?

He never mentioned it again.

Like it never happened.

But for Chloe, everything had changed.

She changed the subject.

"What are you even doing at the hospital?"

Mason's phone buzzed.

He answered, his voice suddenly gentle, soft.

"Stay there. I'm coming."

They turned a corner toward the hospital entrance.

Chloe didn't even need to ask anymore.

Ava was waiting.

"Oh my God, Chloe! What a coincidence! You're here too?"

Ava gave her a nervous smile.

"I twisted my ankle last night."

"Told Mason it wasn't a big deal, but, you know, he wouldn't let it go."

"Insisted on bringing me here."

Ava looked nothing like the vicious woman from last night.

Instead, she was all wide eyes and fake innocence.

"Let's go." 

Mason casually let go of Chloe's wrist and walked over to Ava, picking up the medical report beside her. 

Ava tried to get up, but Mason held her down. 

"You twisted your ankle. Stay put." 

He handed the report bag to Chloe. 

Then, he scooped Ava up in his arms. 

Chloe said nothing, just grabbed the bag and followed behind. 

Ava rested her head on Mason's shoulder, her lips curled into a triumphant smirk. 

As they neared the car, Chloe quickened her pace and walked ahead. 

Before Mason could say a word, she pulled open the back door and got in. 

Mason shot her a cold glance and placed Ava in the front passenger seat. 

"Chloe, should we switch seats? Are you mad?" 

She had looked up at him, lips pursed, teasing him with playful remarks. 

Back then, he had always listened patiently, laughing along with her. 

In the end, he had lifted her chin and kissed her softly. 

She had risen on her tiptoes, meeting him halfway, her lips warm and gentle against his. 

His kisses had been careful, tender. 

But over time, those kisses had changed. 

They became possessive, hungry, an all-consuming storm. 

And yet, Chloe had drowned in it, unable to pull herself free. 

Until one day… 

She had gone to Mason's office to bring him medicine. 

"You think Mason's actually serious this time?"

"Not tired of Chloe yet?" 

"You don't get it, do you?"

"Mason already said—Chloe's wild in bed. Not everyone gets to enjoy that." 

Chloe's face burned. 

She dropped the medicine and rushed out. 

She didn't dare listen to another word.

It would tear her apart. 

She never thought Mason would talk so casually about what was supposed to be private. 

It hurt, but she swallowed it down. 

Because back then, she still wanted to love him.