Chapter 238:

In the restaurant, after her seventh blind date, Corrie couldn't muster the sweet smile she'd been forcing. She sipped her coffee, trying to suppress her depression, but failed. She dialed her father's number.

"I've made it clear I want an outstanding, capable husband. Who are these men you keep setting me up with? I don't like any of them," she vented to her father, Nicholas Bates. Nicholas bristled with anger, but kept his tone subdued. "Are you still unsatisfied? I thought your last date was great. His father is a shipbuilding magnate. Who else could you possibly want?"

Corrie, frustrated, continued, "Yes, his father is wealthy, and yes, there are advantages to marrying him. But he lacks ambition. He's content with a comfortable life and doing nothing. He expects me to settle for that."

Nicholas rubbed his temples. "What nonsense are you spouting? All you should care about is acquiring more wealth through marriage. Why do you need a motivated, capable man whom you love?"

"Dad, do you think I'm incapable of finding both love and wealth? You're insatiable," Corrie retorted.

Nicholas retorted, "I've arranged for you to meet Brook Owen tomorrow. You're of similar age. You can see how you get along."

Corrie furrowed her brow. "Brook Owen? Have you forgotten I was involved with Jayden Owen?"

"So what? Jayden's disabled and married. Why can't you go on a date with Brook?" Nicholas remained calm. "Brook is likely to inherit the Owen Group. He's more aligned with your ambitions."

After a moment, Corrie relented. "Fine. Send me his number later."

Nicholas sounded pleased. "Behave yourself. If we gain the Owen family's support, our family's position will be secure."

After ending the call, Corrie received a call from Tess. Tess had tried calling multiple times during Corrie's previous date, but Corrie had missed them. She'd texted Tess to ask why, but received no reply.

Corrie hesitated, staring at the ringing phone. After three rings, she answered. "Hello, what's up?"

Corrie's recent date wasn't a secret. Tess would likely learn about it soon. Without hesitation, Corrie said, "Yes, I'm at the age where marriage is on the horizon. Gotta start planning for the future."

Tess smiled. "Ever thought about being my daughter-in-law?"

Corrie was taken aback. Did Tess want her to marry Bryce? "Bryce just finished college," Corrie said awkwardly. "We're not a match."

"It's not Bryce. Jayden. You used to date him, didn't you?" Tess chuckled.

Corrie was astonished. "Jayden? You want me to marry Jayden? He's disabled." She restrained her disgust. "Jayden and I are ancient history. Besides, I think Elyse is perfect for him. They seem very much in love."

Corrie adopted a gentle tone, feigning admiration, while a mocking smile played on her lips. "How could Elyse fall for a disabled man? She must be desperate." After a pause, she added, "It's not easy for them. Please don't judge Elyse unfairly."

Tess's anger flared. Elyse's family was disappointing; the Lloyds relied on the Owens. Tess considered convincing Jayden to divorce Elyse and marry someone else—Corrie. They had a history, and Tess thought that with added resources, Corrie might agree.

Tess misjudged Corrie's feelings for Jayden; she didn't realize Corrie now despised him because of his disability.

Disgusted by Tess's scheming, Corrie exchanged polite pleasantries before abruptly ending the call. "As if I couldn't find any man. Marry a cripple? Ridiculous." Muttering to herself, she sipped her coffee. Just then, Jayden and his companions were ushered into an exclusive dining room. Corrie was surprised, a creepy smile spreading across her face. "What a coincidence. I must go say hello."

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