Trading My Ex for His Uncle (Nyla and Damon) novel Chapter 1044

"Would you happen to have a moment later? I'd love to discuss something," Gabriel asked.

Tim smiled. "What a coincidence. I suppose I can spare a few minutes for a chat."

"Excellent," Gabriel replied.

Standing, Crystal smoothed her dress. "I'll freshen up."

She knew better than to linger during Tim's business discussions.

"Your lipstick needs touching up. Take your time," Tim said mildly.

"Of course," Crystal answered.

She found a quiet spot and sat for over half an hour, waiting until she received a bank notification confirming a deposit of 7,000,000 dollars.

Satisfied, she returned to the table, only to find Tim dining alone.

"Tim, when did Mr. Hackett leave?" she asked, quickening her pace to sit across from him.

Tim continued cutting his steak with deliberate precision. "No talking while eating."

Although his tone was calm, Crystal had been with him long enough to sense his simmering anger.

She pressed her lips together, instinctively explaining, "Tim, I'm sorry. Mr. Hackett approached me multiple times, insisting he just wanted to meet with you. Seeing him wait outside in the cold for so long, I thought I'd help—just this once. Are you upset?"

The dining room fell silent, save for the gentle notes of a violinist nearby.

Normally, Crystal would relish such a serene atmosphere during dinner with Tim, but she felt as though she was awaiting a sentence tonight.

She bit her lip, staring at Tim with unease, but dared not say another word.

Crystal's lips trembled. Pale and visibly shaken, she remained silent.

"Don't worry. Whatever he gave you, it's yours. I won't take it back. I'm just curious—how much am I worth to you?" Tim elaborated.

Although his face remained composed, each word carried a weight that made Crystal shudder. Regret churned in her heart. Blinded by greed, she had made a grave mistake.

"Mr. Westcott, I'll return the money right away. Please don't be mad..." Crystal pleaded.

Tim's smile faded, replaced by slight annoyance. He asked again, "How much? Don't make me repeat myself."

When he didn't smile, the authority in his voice made Crystal tremble involuntarily.

"7,000,000 dollars," she stammered.

Tim let out a low chuckle, but his eyes were cold and calculating. "I see. I'm worth that much to you. Honestly, I thought he'd only offered a few hundred thousand for you to sell me out."