Chapter 9 

Hudson’s pen hit the floor. He stared at his assistant, unable to understand what had happened. 

Valeria scooped up the pen, shoving it in his hand. “Babe, what’s the holdup? Everyone’s waiting, Just 

sign it.” 

Hudson shoved her away, yanking his assistant aside. 

“What the hell are you talking about? Reese and I were supposed to take a trip together. She wouldn’t just get on a plane alone.” 

Plus we never said anything about going overseas. 

The assistant’s hands shook as he handed over an envelope. “This just came for you, sir. From Mrs. 

Montclair.” 

Hudson tore it open to find signed divorce papers and a USB drive. 

He stared at her signature in disbelief. 

Reese wanted a divorce?! 

He grabbed his phone, realizing she hadn’t responded to any of his messages. 

In eighteen years – from starry–eyed kids to middle age – Reese had always replied instantly. Always. 

Until now. 

His texts went frantic: 

“Reese, where tf are you? Why aren’t you responding?” 

“Divorce papers? Really? This isn’t cute.” 

Red exclamation points. Blocked. 

Calls straight to voicemail. Blocked there too. 

What the hell happened? 

Heart racing, Hudson headed for the door, but Valeria latched onto him. 

“Are you kidding me right now? It’s Leon’s ceremony. You promised him the company. Where are you 

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A Perfect Lie Hides Behind My Billionair 

1.6 

Chapter 9 

running off to?” 

“Reese’s plane crashed. I need to find out.” 

Valeria spotted the divorce papers and sneered. 

“Oh, look who’s playing games. What, she’s butthurt you took my side? So she fakes her death and throws divorce papers at you?” 

“It’s Leon’s special day. Her kid’s dead so she has to come ruin ours?” 

Leon snatched the USB, smirking. 

“Dad, please. Girls pull this crap all the time. Next thing you know she’ll be posting sad quotes and crying selfies on Insta. So basic.” 

Valeria cackled. “That’s my boy! Sees right through these thirsty tricks.” 

Watching them high–five and snicker, something clicked in Hudson’s head. 

This was the second time Leon had trashed Reese. He thought that was as teenage attitude before. 

But Valeria? 

A grown woman egging on this mean boy BS? What kind of mom taught her kid to be such a dick? 

Reese would never. Noah had been the sweetest, most well–mannered kid… 

The contrast hit him like a slap. Looking at Valeria’s smug face now, he suddenly felt disgusting. 

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