Chapter 35
Nicolas frowned slightly and replied in a flat tone, “Is there something you need?”
Emmalie smiled brightly, unfazed. “I know you’re close with lari, so I thought I’d visit as well. We share a love for art, so we had a nice chat. Are you having dinner with him tonight? Maybel-
Before she could finish, Nicolas cut her off, his voice turning cold. “I’m sorry, but I have plans tonight. You won’t be joining
Emmalie’s smile faltered for just a second, but she quickly recovered, hiding any sign of disappointment.
Without wasting more time, Nicolas walked past her and added coldly, “Miss Rowland, I hope you know where the line is. We’re not close, and I’d prefer if you didn’t act otherwise.”
Emmalie clenched her fists, still managing to keep her polished smile. “Of course. Another time, then.”
Nicolas didn’t bother responding and quickened his pace into the restaurant.
As she watched him walk away, the warmth in Emmalie’s eyes slowly faded. She briefly glanced toward a hidden spot and quickly composed herself.
Inside, lan looked visibly annoyed. Without even glancing up as Nicolas approached, he muttered, “A few years ago, your father had the gall to reject my sweet granddaughter, claiming he had someone better lined up for you. I was expecting someone remarkable, but instead, he picked some pretentious little thing
Nicolas’s expression darkened. “Have you met her?”
“Yeah, lan scoffed. “She’s got wealth, sure, but her act doesn’t fool me. And Stefan? His judgment’s slipping if he thinks she’s wife material. When I get the chance, I’ll set him straight.”
Nicolas felt a flicker of frustration but said calmly, “She’s not what you think. If you got to know her better, you’d see she’s different.
Ian stared at Nicolas, confused. “What’s gotten into you? Are you defending her? Don’t tell me you’ve actually fallen for this type of woman, huh? No way! That’s not happening”
Nicolas opened his mouth to explain. It wasn’t about feelings; this was about protecting Thea’s reputation. After all, they were in a marriage of convenience, and Ian’s impression was off
But before he could clarify, lan waved him off dismissively. I’ve met her, and that’s enough. I won’t meddle in your marriage. Forget dinner. I’ve got a painting to finish.”
lan had always been like this, and Nicolas didn’t argue. He instructed Darwin to arrange for someone to escort lan home.
Just five minutes after lan left, Thea arrived, carrying some items and looking confused as she glanced around the
restaurant
Nicolas walked over and explained, “Something came up, so lan had to leave. He said you’ll meet another time.”
Thea nodded, but her spirits dipped. It was obvious lan wasn’t impressed with her, and that stung a bit.
Still, this marriage was temporary. Nicolas would eventually find someone more suited to him. If it weren’t for Stefan’s insistence, she probably wouldn’t have met lart at all.
Seeing her expression, Nicolas added, “Don’t overthink it. He’s easy to get along with. He just didn’t have time to get to know you today”
1/3
11:39 Fri, Oct 25
In the cozy private room, only Thea and Nicolas remained. It was the first time Thea had been alone with him over dinner. Her heart raced a bit, and she couldn’t help but glance at him several times.
Noticing Thea drinking a few glasses without flinching, Nicolas looked at her with mild curiosity. After a moment’s pause, he picked up his own glass and took a sip.
Thea blinked and smiled. “Mr. Hendrix, I’m not sure if this wine is to your liking. It’s more on the fruity and sweet side, but
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