Chapter 105

Stephanie took a picture of herself in Nicolas' office, seated in his main chair. Nicolas was visible in the background, working on his laptop on the sofa; a flower pot was also in the frame.

Stephanie messaged Thea: "I was sick today, and he didn't have time to visit, but he bought me flowers. I'm going to confess my feelings soon, though I haven't prepared a gift yet. I think it'll definitely work."

Thea didn't respond immediately. She stared at the photo for a long time, her eyes stinging. Blinking back tears, she reread Stephanie's message, her heart aching. She typed a response, then deleted it. Finally, she sent a brief message: "You'll definitely succeed. I'm heading to bed now, good night."

Stephanie put away her phone, a cold glint in her eyes. “I thought she'd be a tougher opponent, but she's just pretty on the outside and spineless,” she thought. However, she still hadn't figured out the exact nature of Nicolas' relationship with Thea. “It's probably one-sided on Thea's part. I refuse to believe Nicolas would be interested in another woman. I just wonder what tricks she used,” she mused.

Stephanie picked up the bouquet from the desk and approached Nicolas. "Nicolas, I know I upset you today, but I was really scared—scared something was wrong with my health. I'm the only one left in this world, and if I don't take care of myself" Hearing her mention her brother, Nicolas' expression softened. He looked up, noticing the flowers.

Seizing the moment, Stephanie continued, "I remember these are your favorite. I bought them for you. Nicolas, don't ignore me, or I'll be really sad."

"Have your test results come back yet? What did the doctor say?" he asked.

Stephanie feigned nervousness, her eyes dimming. "The doctor said everything's fine, probably just exhaustion and poor eating habits causing the stomach pain. Nicolas, you're always busy too. You need a check-up, especially a full-body exam."

Nicolas narrowed his eyes, his gaze serious. "Stephanie, tell me the truth. How are your test results? Is something wrong?"

Stephanie shook her head vehemently. "No problem, really. I'm perfectly healthy. Look at me; I'm full of energy."

Nicolas sensed something was off. He shifted his gaze. "You're tired. I'll have Darwin take you home. There's no need for you to come see me." Stephanie's smile froze. "Nicolas, let me stay longer. I still have something important to say. Why are you—" Nicolas detected the insincerity in her voice and avoided her touch, his voice growing colder. "Go home and rest. It's my responsibility to take care of you, as I promised your brother. Now, go."

Chapter 103

With a single sentence, Nicolas clarified their relationship. Stephanie, unwilling to give up, tried to say more, but seeing his impatience, she reluctantly stood up. "I'll come see you again next time."

Nicolas didn't look up. "It's best if you come less often. If people see us, it won't be good. There were rumors online, and we should avoid being seen together to prevent more gossip. It could make things difficult for you." "But I" Stephanie's voice became urgent.

Before she could finish, Nicolas interrupted. "Darwin is downstairs. Go home and rest."

Stephanie bit her lip in frustration but left. While in the elevator, her phone rang. It was the doctor. "Ms. Ralap, Mr. Hendrix just asked for your test results. Should I show him the report?"

Stephanie smiled smugly. "Give him the report, and exaggerate my condition. Don't say anything else."

The doctor's voice trembled. "Ms. Ralap, Mr. Hendrix is sharp. If he investigates, he'll find out. If he discovers we're deceiving him I'm scared. Maybe we should think of another way?"

Stephanie's expression twisted. "It's too late. I have the fake report. Even if you refuse, I'll tell him. You'll be in trouble. You can cooperate, or your choice. Besides, once I marry Nicolas, you'll benefit."

The doctor, sweating, nodded. "Understood, Ms. Ralap. I'll make sure Mr. Hendrix doesn't suspect a thing."

Thea tried to sleep but couldn't. “Stephanie has probably confessed and succeeded. What are they doing now? Nicolas probably won't be coming back tonight,” she worried.

Knocking startled her. "Thea?" Nicolas called, concerned. "Are you not feeling well again?"

It felt like a dream. She wanted to ask about Stephanie but stopped herself. “I have no right to ask. It would only humiliate me,” she thought.

Feigning sleep, she replied, "I was asleep. Mr. Hendrix, do you need something?"

"The doctor prescribed medication. I noticed you didn't take it, so I came to remind you," Nicolas said, knocking again. "If you're not up to opening the door, I'll leave it on the doorknob. Don't forget to take it."

Thea's heart fluttered. She reminded herself not to harbor inappropriate thoughts. After he left, she retrieved the medicine and glanced at the master bedroom. The lights were still on. “Why didn't he stay with Stephanie? Have they solidified their relationship? When will he bring up the divorce?” Sleep vanished. “It's inevitable,” she sighed.