The Rise of Ethan Ryder: The Despised Husband & CEO

Chapter 2: A Secret Benevolence

Ethan watched quietly from the back of Jasmine’s boutique as she worked tirelessly, oblivious to the subtle support that had propelled her business forward. She moved with confidence, overseeing the arrangement of new merchandise, talking to her staff, and monitoring every detail as though this empire she was building was solely the result of her own ambition and grit.

But beneath the surface of her growing success was Ethan's invisible hand, orchestrating connections, cutting through bureaucratic red tape, and lining up opportunities she would never know about. Jasmine’s business had been on the brink of collapse countless times, but Ethan had intervened each time, ensuring she’d remain on a winning streak.

He received updates on her financial health weekly through a private network of accountants and consultants he’d hired to watch over her business. They operated with such discretion that not even Jasmine suspected that her husband—the “useless” man she barely tolerated—was, in fact, the reason she hadn’t sunk.

This particular morning, he had arranged a meeting with Mr. Lawson, the influential distributor Jasmine had been eager to connect with for months. She had no idea that it was Ethan who’d persuaded Mr. Lawson to consider her business.

Jasmine was busy chatting with one of her assistants when she spotted Ethan hovering near the door. She frowned, clearly irritated. “What are you doing here?” she hissed, quickly glancing around to see if anyone noticed. “I’ve told you before, don’t just come in unannounced. You’re an embarrassment.”

Ethan merely nodded, keeping his expression calm. He slipped his hands into his pockets, masking the urge to defend himself. “I thought I’d come by and see if you needed any help,” he replied softly.

She scoffed, turning back to her assistant. “Help? The only help I need is for you to stop meddling.”

Before he could respond, Mr. Lawson entered the shop, his tall, polished frame exuding the authority of a man accustomed to doing business with the best. Jasmine’s eyes widened when she recognized him. She straightened her posture, putting on her most professional smile, her annoyance with Ethan temporarily forgotten.

“Mr. Lawson! It’s an honor to meet you,” she greeted eagerly, extending her hand. “Thank you for considering my boutique for distribution. I’ve heard so much about your reputation in the industry.”

Lawson smiled, shaking her hand. “I’ve been very interested in seeing what you have to offer, Ms. Lin. I think you’ll find our partnership quite beneficial.”

Ethan watched the exchange from a distance, feeling a strange mix of pride and sadness. Jasmine had no idea how close she had come to losing this opportunity just days earlier. Lawson had initially declined her request for a meeting, citing prior commitments. Only a last-minute intervention from Ethan, who called in a favor from a contact he had known for years, had convinced Lawson to give her a chance.

As the meeting continued, Jasmine guided Lawson through the boutique, passionately explaining her vision. Ethan stepped outside, feeling the weight of the secret he carried. To the world, he was nothing more than her unworthy husband. But in truth, he was her greatest benefactor, working tirelessly behind the scenes to make her dreams come true.

Later that evening, Ethan received a call from his personal assistant, Mia, who handled the complex network of finances he’d funneled into Jasmine’s business.

“Sir, I wanted to confirm that the last-minute payment to the leasing office went through,” Mia reported. “The boutique’s lease is secure for another two years, as you requested.”

“Thank you, Mia,” he replied, grateful for her discretion. “Please ensure all transactions remain anonymous.”

Mia hesitated briefly. “Of course, sir. But...if I may, why do you continue to support her without letting her know? She doesn’t seem...appreciative.”

Ethan’s face softened as he thought about his answer. He’d often wondered the same thing. There was no gratitude in Jasmine’s eyes, no warmth or appreciation for the sacrifices he made daily. But for some reason, he couldn’t bring himself to walk away.

“Let’s just say it’s a debt I owe,” he said finally, his voice low. “And one day, when the time is right, she’ll understand the truth.”

Mia paused, and Ethan could almost hear the sympathy in her voice. “Very well, sir. Just remember, you don’t owe anyone your dignity.”

He hung up, her words lingering in his mind. Perhaps Mia was right. Perhaps he did deserve better than this loveless marriage and the thankless work he did for Jasmine. Yet some part of him held on, believing that one day, the truth would come to light and Jasmine would see him for who he truly was.

For now, however, Ethan returned home, resigned to his role as the silent benefactor.